New York – October 21, 2026 -- University of South Carolina women's basketball head coach Dawn Staley, a four-time Olympic gold medalist and three-time national champion, argues that empathy and high standards work together to produce wins, according to a new episode of the Grey Matter podcast hosted by Consello Founder, Chairman and CEO Declan Kelly.
Staley says playing instincts do not automatically make a leader
Staley tells Kelly that the instincts that made her successful as a player did not always translate into impactful leadership when she moved into coaching. Over more than three decades at the highest levels of women's basketball, she says, empathy and adaptability have defined her long-term success.
North Philadelphia upbringing shaped her competitive drive
Growing up in North Philadelphia, Staley built her competitiveness by repeatedly learning from discomfort, setbacks and change. She says the losses have stayed with her longer than the victories and sharpened her mindset.
South Carolina coach aligns players, parents, trainers and agents
At South Carolina, Staley reconsiders assumptions that served her as a player and listens to what each athlete needs, while keeping the standards she believes winning requires. She invests time in aligning players with the people around them, including parents, trainers and agents, so each understands their role in supporting the team.
The full episode is available on Consello's website, YouTube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts.