Building Champions for Life cover art

Building Champions for Life

Building Champions for Life

By: Kirk Spahn
Listen for free

About this listen

Join host Kirk Spahn as he speaks with world champions about ways to elevate and equip tomorrow's champions and leaders. Drawing on his extensive background as a fourth-generation educator, founder of the Institute for Civic Leadership, and former competitive tennis player, Kirk explores the intersection of elite performance, character development, and lifelong success.


In each episode, Kirk sits down with remarkable achievers across sports, business, arts, and education to uncover the hidden foundations of true championship mindsets. Through substantive dialogues, guests share the pivotal moments, mentors, failures, and principles that shaped their journeys—revealing insights that parents, coaches, educators, and aspiring leaders can apply immediately.


Building Champions for Life goes beyond trophies and accolades to examine how exceptional performance in any field connects to deeper purpose and lasting impact. With Kirk's unique perspective spanning both traditional education and innovative learning approaches, listeners gain practical wisdom on nurturing not just skills and talents, but the character traits that create champions who thrive in all aspects of life.


Whether you're a parent supporting a child's dreams, a coach developing the next generation of talent, an educator shaping young minds, or someone striving for personal excellence, this podcast delivers actionable insights from those who've reached the pinnacle of achievement while maintaining their core values and purpose.


Subscribe to join the conversation about what truly makes a champion for life—in the arena and beyond.


Donate to the ICL Foundation today! https://omella.com/tzfnb

© 2025 Building Champions for Life
Personal Development Personal Success
Episodes
  • From Battlefield to Boardroom: Craig Andrews' Journey
    Sep 2 2025

    In this conversation, Craig Andrews of Allies 4 Me shares his remarkable journey from a Marine veteran to a successful entrepreneur and author. He discusses his transition from engineering to marketing, the importance of lifelong learning, and the challenges he faced in business and health. Craig emphasizes the significance of trust, relationships, and creating positive experiences for others. His insights on perseverance and personal growth provide valuable lessons for anyone looking to become a champion in their own life.


    Show More Show Less
    38 mins
  • Mind Over Matter: Dan Jansen on Perseverance and Giving Back
    Jul 24 2025

    In this moving episode of Building Champions for Life, host Kirk Spahn sits down with Olympic gold medalist and world record holder Dan Jansen to reflect on one of the most powerful journeys in sports history. From skating on frozen ponds in Wisconsin to heartbreak on the Olympic stage, Dan opens up about how the tragic loss of his sister Jane shaped his mental fortitude, fueled his relentless pursuit of excellence, and ultimately led to his unforgettable gold medal moment in Lillehammer. Together, they explore the foundational “6 P’s”, and how Dan's mindset and resilience continue to inspire the next generation of athletes and leaders. With humility, wisdom, and heart, Dan reminds us that true champions are built not by medals, but by how they rise, adapt, and serve beyond the arena.

    Show More Show Less
    50 mins
  • From Touchdowns to Tech: The Multifaceted Mission of Blake Corum
    Jun 4 2025

    In this inspiring episode of Building Champions for Life, host Kirk Spahn sits down with Blake Corum—NFL running back for the Los Angeles Rams and two-time All-American from the University of Michigan. Known for his record-breaking rushing touchdowns and leadership on the field, Blake’s story is one of relentless dedication, resilience, and purpose. But as Kirk reveals, Blake’s impact extends far beyond football. He’s already making waves as a philanthropist, entrepreneur, and role model for the next generation of athletes.

    Blake opens up about his journey from a small-town upbringing to becoming a national champion and now an NFL standout. He shares how his “super purpose” emerged early—using his platform to serve others and build something greater than himself. Kirk and Blake explore the "Six P’s" framework that defines a true champion: Passion, Purpose, Process, People, Perseverance, and Personalization. From founding Peak Nanotechnologies to supporting youth programs through ICL, Blake embodies a new kind of athlete—one who respects tradition while boldly embracing the future.

    Whether you're a student, parent, coach, or aspiring champion, Blake’s humility, drive, and deep sense of mission will leave you inspired. With candid stories, life lessons, and even a few lighthearted moments—including his favorite ice cream and superhero—this episode is a masterclass in leadership through action. Tune in to hear how Blake Corum is redefining what it means to be a champion for life.

    Show More Show Less
    46 mins
No reviews yet
In the spirit of reconciliation, Audible acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.