Winning with Passion and Persistence with Mike Picard
In this episode of the Voice of Influence Podcast, Andrea interviews Mike Picard, the Executive Director and Head Coach for Envy Volleyball Club. Mike shares his journey from being a volleyball parent to establishing a successful non-profit volleyball club. He discusses his coaching philosophy focused on building confidence and strength in young players, the rapid growth of Envy Volleyball Club, and the impact of creating a positive and supportive community for young athletes. Mike also highlights the importance of passion and investment in making a lasting influence. Mike Picard is a Navy veteran, holds an MBA, and is the owner of American Structures Company. He was named USA Volleyball Youth Coach of the Year in 2022.
00:00 Introduction to Mike Picard
00:42 Mike’s Journey into Volleyball Coaching
02:07 Building Confidence and Strength in Young Players
03:39 Starting a Volleyball Club
05:34 Challenges and Successes of the New Club
08:57 Expanding the Club and Philosophy
10:21 Nonprofit Approach and Community Support
11:40 Philosophy of Encouraging Mistakes
15:27 Rapid Growth and Facility Challenges
21:12 Empowering Young Girls Through Volleyball
25:12 Scholarship Success Stories
25:30 Year Two and Future Prospects
26:29 Nebraska’s Volleyball Culture
28:53 Challenges and Expansion Plans
31:33 Coaching Philosophy and Impact
39:16 Personal Reflections and Family Involvement
42:18 Building a Positive Environment
49:05 Final Thoughts and Advice
When Mike Picard first raised his hand to help coach his daughter’s fourth-grade volleyball team, he couldn’t have known it would spark a passion that would ripple across Omaha. From Navy veteran to volleyball coach and founder of Envy Volleyball Club, Mike’s journey is one of service, resilience, and intentional leadership—on and off the court.
It’s OK to Make Mistakes
When Mike began coaching, he quickly realized that success isn’t about avoiding mistakes—it’s about learning from them. This insight shaped his coaching philosophy: mistakes aren’t failures—they’re stepping stones to growth. By creating an environment where players feel safe to push boundaries and try new things, Mike empowers his athletes to embrace challenges and improve with each effort.
“Mistakes tell me you’re trying something new. Focus on the next play, not the last one.”
This mindset has transformed not only the way his players approach volleyball but how they build resilience and confidence in all aspects of life.
Leadership Means Investing in Others
Mike’s commitment to Envy Volleyball Club goes beyond the scoreboard. Initially starting as a one-team operation, Envy grew rapidly into a nonprofit focused on inclusivity. Mike refused to let financial barriers stop talented players from participating, creating scholarships and subsidizing costs to ensure every girl could hit the court.
Through his intentional recruitment of positive, passionate coaches, Mike cultivates a culture where kids feel supported and motivated. His secret? “Be the coach you always wanted to have.”
Redefining What It Means to ‘Hit Like a Girl’
Mike reclaimed the phrase hit like a girl for his athletes, turning it into a badge of pride. Young players light up when they see older teammates unleash powerful hits, learning that strength and confidence are their greatest assets.
This redefinition of success extends beyond volleyball. It’s about building resilient, self-assured young women who can tackle challenges on and off the court.
Passion and Persistence
Mike’s story is a testament to the power of passion and persistence. By saying yes to a coaching opportunity, he created a ripple effect of leadership, inclusivity, and inspiration that continues to grow.
If you’re looking for a story that embodies what it means to lead with influence and make an impact, check out this episode of the Voice of Influence Podcast.
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