David Gilbert: From Pro Athlete to Mentor — Building Leaders Through Hard Work and No Excuses

David Gilbert is a driven mentor, coach, and former professional athlete who has spent his life competing at the highest level — academically, athletically, and professionally. His journey is defined by hard work, discipline, and a commitment to helping others reach their full potential.

Before age 23, David had already worked in custodial services, food preparation, telemarketing, and warehouse management — a well-rounded work background that gave him the tools to help anyone be successful. But it was his career as a professional athlete that gave him a big-picture view of what hard work is really about: no excuses, clear goals, and relentless execution.

Today, David has developed a passion for coaching and teaching in any sport. He has spent years in the community mastering the group setting and understanding student behavior at all levels of education. His approach is simple: make projects and jobs enjoyable, creative, and productive for those he works with — while never compromising on discipline, punctuality, and execution.

David believes that very few employees under 25 understand the value of having a plan and the importance of showing up on time and executing. That's why he's dedicated to mentoring the next generation — teaching them what it takes to lead, win, and build a life rooted in purpose.

In This Episode, We Talk About:

• What "raising the standard" means to David Gilbert
• The biggest lie culture sold athletes about success and work ethic
• How hard work, discipline, and execution shaped David's journey
• Identity beyond performance — who you are when the competition ends
• What legacy means for someone coaching and mentoring the next generation
• Advice for high school, college, and young professionals
• Why having a plan and showing up on time matter more than talent
• Rapid-fire truths on discipline, leadership, faith, and legacy

David's story is a testament to the power of hard work, the importance of mentorship, and the belief that with the right plan and no excuses, anyone can win.

Whether you're an athlete, parent, coach, or young professional — this conversation will challenge how you think about work ethic, leadership, and what it means to raise the standard.

Connect with David Gilbert:

• Facebook: David Gilbert

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ABOUT THE STANDARD PODCAST™: This isn't motivation. This is a movement. Hosted by Erin Sarles and Thomas Roe, co-founders of Blueprint to Bluechip™, The Standard Podcast™ calls out the lies culture sold athletes and raises a new standard in sports, leadership, and life. We bring raw, truth-packed 20-25 minute conversations about identity, discipline, and legacy that goes beyond the scoreboard.

New episodes drop every Monday.

Raise the bar. Rebuild the culture. Become the standard.