Podcast Title: The Herd with Colin Cowherd
Episode: Hour 2 - Being a Better Leader
Release Date: July 2, 2025
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume
Description: The Herd with Colin Cowherd is a thought-provoking, opinionated, and topic-driven journey through the top sports stories of the day.
Introduction
In this episode titled "Being a Better Leader," Colin Cowherd, along with guest analysts Yovan Buha and Jason McIntyre, delves into various leadership dynamics within the sports world. From basketball leadership on and off the court to evaluating leadership qualities in football and baseball, the discussion offers deep insights into what makes a leader effective in high-pressure environments.
Leadership in the NFL: Lamar Jackson's Challenges
Timestamp: [04:01]
The episode opens with a critical analysis of Lamar Jackson, the dynamic quarterback for the Baltimore Ravens. Colin Cowherd addresses the common perception of leadership, emphasizing that while Lamar is a two-time MVP and undeniably talented, his performance in the playoffs has been inconsistent.
Key Points:
- Lamar's Playoff Performance: Despite his regular-season successes, Lamar has struggled in the postseason, leading to questions about his leadership under pressure.
- Leadership Style: Lamar identifies his leadership weakness as "being a leader," admitting that he doesn't possess the traditional vocal leadership style but instead leads by example.
Notable Quotes:
- Yovan Buha: “I really don't… [05:17]”
- Colin Cowherd: “Leadership. You either have that or you don't. I don't think, like, five years into the league, something snaps and you're a leader.”
Discussion: The conversation highlights the difference between leading by example and vocal leadership, pondering whether Lamar's quiet demeanor impacts his effectiveness as a leader during critical playoff moments. The hosts debate whether leadership qualities can evolve over time or if they are inherently tied to an individual's personality.
The Lakers' Deandre Ayton Free Agency
Timestamp: [08:13]
Shifting focus to the NBA, the trio discusses the impending free agency decision of Deandre Ayton, the Los Angeles Lakers' center. With Ayton likely making his decision on the day, the conversation explores potential landing spots and the implications for both Ayton and the Lakers.
Key Points:
- Potential Destinations: Golden State Warriors and Indiana Pacers are highlighted as primary options due to their need for a starting center.
- Cultural Fit and Performance: Concerns are raised about Ayton's cultural fit and his performance consistency, especially regarding his lack of floor stretching and limited offensive versatility.
- Lakers' Options: If Ayton opts out, the Lakers may need to consider trade options or alternative signings, such as Al Horford, to fill the center role.
Notable Quotes:
- Yovan Buha: “He doesn't really stretch the floor, he doesn't get to the foul line… [11:00]”
- Colin Cowherd: “I think the Lakers probably provide the best opportunity. You're going to be in the spotlight.”
Discussion: The analysts weigh the pros and cons of Ayton staying with the Lakers or moving to another team, considering both financial aspects and team dynamics. The conversation also touches upon the challenges the Lakers face in maintaining flexibility under the Salary Cap to attract high-caliber talent.
Knicks Hire Mike Brown as Head Coach
Timestamp: [32:57]
In a significant NBA coaching move, the New York Knicks have reportedly hired Mike Brown as their new head coach. Brown's extensive experience, including championships with the Golden State Warriors and San Antonio Spurs, is a focal point of discussion.
Key Points:
- Coaching Resume: Brown's history of winning as an assistant coach and his previous head coaching stints are highlighted as assets for the Knicks.
- Impact on Team Dynamics: The expectation is that Brown will bring a player-friendly approach, contrasting with his predecessor Thibodeau's more traditional coaching style.
- Future Projections: Both Colin and Yovan express optimism that with Brown at the helm, the Knicks are poised to contend strongly in the Eastern Conference.
Notable Quotes:
- Colin Cowherd: “Is this the right fit? Yeah, I mean… [33:47]”
- Yovan Buha: “I like a couple small moves they made fortify their bench. I like the bright Mike Brown move.”
Discussion: The hosts believe that Mike Brown's leadership and coaching philosophy will rejuvenate the Knicks, positioning them as serious contenders for the NBA Finals. They discuss how Brown's experience with star players like LeBron James could translate to success in New York.
Potential LeBron James Trade Scenarios
Timestamp: [16:54]
A speculative segment explores the unlikely scenario of LeBron James being traded to other NBA franchises, focusing on potential trade packages and the feasibility of such a move.
Key Points:
- LeBron’s Trade Demand: Although highly improbable, the discussion considers the implications if LeBron were to seek a trade.
- Possible Trade Packages: Potential assets, including players like Mitchell Robinson or Klay Thompson, are discussed, evaluating whether teams like the Knicks or Cavaliers could feasibly land LeBron without compromising too much.
- Mobility and Future Plans: LeBron’s no-trade clause and personal legacy aspirations are considered as significant barriers to any such trade.
Notable Quotes:
- Colin Cowherd: “He has not asked for a trade. There's been no discussion… [16:03]”
- Yovan Buha: “What the hell are they getting for? For LeBron?”
Discussion: The conversation underscores the complexity and low probability of trading a player of LeBron's stature, highlighting how such a move would require monumental shifts in team rosters and financial commitments. The hosts conclude that while entertaining to ponder, a LeBron trade remains outside the realm of practicality.
Luka Doncic's Leadership and Performance Critique
Timestamp: [22:05]
The episode transitions to Luka Doncic’s role and leadership within the Dallas Mavericks, addressing the criticisms he has faced despite his standout performances.
Key Points:
- Performance Under Scrutiny: Luka's inconsistencies in critical games, especially in playoff scenarios, are examined.
- Leadership Qualities: Comparisons are made between Luka and other leaders like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA), questioning Luka's defensive contributions and overall leadership on the court.
- Future Potential: The discussion contemplates Luka's growth trajectory and whether his current performance aligns with his MVP status.
Notable Quotes:
- Yovan Buha: “If you ask my wife, she would say Jake, that's my, my husband for sports… [23:15]”
- Colin Cowherd: “Call Shai Gilgeous-Alexander a Finals MVP. That was deserved.”
Discussion: The analysts debate whether Luka's leadership style is effective and sustainable at the highest levels of competition. They also discuss the impact of external factors like Luka's offseason behaviors and off-court rhetoric on his public and professional image.
Shohei Ohtani’s MLB Excellence
Timestamp: [42:37]
Shifting to baseball, Shohei Ohtani's remarkable performance continues to impress, with the discussion highlighting his unique two-way capabilities as both a pitcher and a hitter.
Key Points:
- Home Run Milestone: Ohtani's achievement of hitting his 30th home run of the season ties him with legends like Ken Griffey Jr., showcasing his extraordinary talent.
- Versatility and Impact: The conversation emphasizes Ohtani's dual role and his impact on the game, asserting that his achievements set him apart as a once-in-a-generation athlete.
- Record-Breaking Potential: Ohtani's current records, particularly his home runs while maintaining pitching duties, are deemed unbreakable due to the specialized nature of his role.
Notable Quotes:
- Colin Cowherd: “This kid is a unicorn and a gift for the game of baseball. We are never going to see a player like this again… [42:56]”
- Yovan Buha: “He has so much respect for the game right now.”
Discussion: Ohtani's dedication, training regimen, and inherent skill are praised, with the hosts forecasting a lasting legacy that will influence future generations in baseball. They argue that his unique talents make him indispensable and irreplaceable within the sport.
NFL Leadership and Team Dynamics
Timestamp: [37:22]
The discussion returns to the NFL, focusing on team dynamics and leadership choices, specifically addressing the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and their culture.
Key Points:
- Chris Godwin’s Decision: Godwin choosing to stay with the Buccaneers despite lucrative offers reflects a leadership-driven culture prioritizing team success over individual financial gain.
- Legacy vs. Compensation: The perennial debate of choosing between maximizing earnings ("the bag") and pursuing championships ("the ring") is explored, stressing how different players prioritize these aspects based on their career stages.
Notable Quotes:
- Jason McIntyre: “...offering him more money. Mayfield went on to add that the Bucks are a bunch of good guys who just want to win… [36:00]”
- Yovan Buha: “Do you want the bag or do you want the ring?”
Discussion: The hosts debate the ethical and personal considerations athletes face in balancing financial security with competitive aspirations. They use real-world examples to illustrate how leadership and team culture influence player decisions and career trajectories.
Loyalty and Contract Negotiations in the NBA
Timestamp: [50:11]
In a heated segment, the conversation turns to the concept of loyalty within the NBA, using Miles Turner's departure from the Indiana Pacers to the Milwaukee Bucks as a case study.
Key Points:
- Turner's Departure: The Pacers' decision to offer Turner a reduced contract resulted in his move to the Bucks, sparking discussions about team loyalty and ownership priorities.
- Impact of Luxury Tax: Changes in NBA financial regulations and the imposition of luxury taxes are scrutinized for their role in influencing team decisions regarding player retention and loyalty.
- Fan and Player Reactions: The episode highlights the backlash from fans and players alike, condemning the Pacers' inability to honor longstanding commitments.
Notable Quotes:
- Yovan Buha: “We have to try to maximize that… [52:43]”
- Colin Cowherd: “It's tough to find guys like that who can stretch the floor and hit threes… [35:34]”
Discussion: The analysts critique the Pacers' management decisions, emphasizing how financial constraints and modern NBA dynamics undermine traditional notions of loyalty. They argue that the evolving landscape of the league forces teams to prioritize financial flexibility over long-term player relationships.
Conclusion
Throughout this episode, Colin Cowherd and his guests provide a comprehensive analysis of leadership qualities across different sports, emphasizing the importance of both on-field performance and off-field influence. From dissecting the leadership challenges faced by athletes like Lamar Jackson and Luka Doncic to evaluating the strategic decisions behind coaching hires and player trades, the discussion offers valuable insights into what it takes to be an effective leader in high-stakes environments.
Final Notable Quotes:
- Colin Cowherd: “This is the only kryptonite he has. The calendar turns to January and all of a sudden Lamar Jackson… [05:33]”
- Yovan Buha: “...the idea of loyalty. Hey, Turner, you should have stayed with us. No… [52:43]”
This detailed summary encapsulates the multifaceted discussions on leadership within the sports realm, providing listeners with a nuanced understanding of the complexities involved in guiding teams and athletes to success.