Leadership isn’t always loud—it’s earned through humility, consistency, and the kind of listening that makes people feel seen. As Tommy Ahlquist shares in his introduction, this conversation has been a long time coming. Coach Wade Anderson isn’t just another guest—he’s one of Tommy’s greatest mentors, a man he calls a legend, a hero, and a friend. “God broke the mold when he made Wade,” Tommy says—and by the end of this episode, you’ll understand why.

From the hayfields of Rupert to Madison Square Garden, Wade’s story bridges cowboy grit with timeless lessons on teaching, parenting, and leadership. Alongside his son Clay—himself an accomplished real estate professional—they reflect on the kind of character, humility, and faith that shape lives far beyond the game.

Wade shares how setbacks can forge resilience, how faith becomes practical wisdom, and why the best leaders care more about growth than glory. Through stories of small-town roots, college triumphs, and decades of coaching, he reminds us that titles fade but integrity endures. You’ll hear about the class ring that became a lesson in earned respect, the noon-hoops games that broke down hierarchies, and how a stack of Louis L’Amour books turned into a lifelong habit of reflection and perspective.

Wade’s philosophy—family first, encouragement over criticism, and the simple goal of “raising your best friends”—translates far beyond sports. It’s a masterclass in leadership that lasts, delivered by a man who’s spent a lifetime proving that the best mentors don’t just coach—they build people.

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