In this episode, I’m joined by Coach Jim Johnson—a veteran basketball coach with over 35 years on the bench and a heart for leadership, inclusion, and giving kids their shot.
But what makes Coach Johnson truly unforgettable? One night, one decision, and one incredible performance from a young man named Jason “J Mac” McElwain—a student with autism, team manager turned unexpected hero—changed everything.
This moment didn’t just light up the gym; it caught fire nationwide. From Good Morning America to the White House, J Mac’s 20-point performance in just four minutes (yep—six 3-pointers) became one of the most inspirational sports stories of all time.
We talk about:
- The story behind J Mac’s miraculous senior night moment
- Why Coach Johnson put him in the game—and what happened next
- How that experience changed his leadership style forever
- His biggest lessons in trust, pressure, and servant leadership
- The importance of seeing what’s possible in others
Coach Johnson also shares the leadership principles that guided his teams to success: model the behaviors you want to see, keep developing yourself, and—above all—build trust.
Whether you're a coach, a leader, or someone who believes in second chances, this episode will hit home.
🎧 Listen in now—this one’s a tearjerker, a motivator, and a masterclass in leadership.
Connect with Coach Jim Johnson:
Website: CoachJimJohnson.com
Twitter: @CoachJimJohnson
Book: A Coach and A Miracle
Follow & Connect with Trent Clark:
💡 Website: Leadershipity.com
🎙️ Winners Find a Way Podcast: https://podcast.winnersfindaway.us/podcast
📩 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trentmclark/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GAwyvYA7OY1L2JOjegX7D
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/winners-find-a-way/id1578413577
Podlink: https://pod.link/1578413577
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@leadershipity
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