What does leadership look like when life delivers its hardest challenge? In this deeply moving episode of Leadership Blueprints, BJ Kraemer welcomes NC State defensive coordinator DJ Eliot to talk about coaching, mentorship, and resilience both on and off the football field. DJ explains the philosophy behind his renowned "Skill Drill Time" approach to player development, building winning cultures in today's ever-changing college football landscape, and the invaluable role mentorship has played throughout his career. DJ also shares his family's extraordinary journey through his daughter’s courageous six-year battle with cancer, and the role of courage, presence, and gratitude when life doesn't go according to plan. Tune in to hear why you should always choose to fight, embrace each day with purpose, and inspire others through the way we live, with DJ Eliot.
Key Points From This Episode:
- Discover the philosophy behind DJ’s approach to coaching.
- Find out who inspired DJ to develop his coaching framework.
- Uncover the value of mentorship and a lifelong growth mindset.
- Hear how DJ got into coaching football as a profession.
- The differences between coaching professional and college football.
- Explore how situational preparation separates winning teams from the rest.
- Get an update on the Wolf Pack, including key players.
- Learn how today's college football landscape has impacted leadership styles.
- Understand what it takes to be a leader and build a winning culture.
- Unpack why effective leaders must earn trust before expecting others to follow.
- DJ shares how his family overcame the loss of his daughter through leadership.
- Reflect on his daughter’s inspiring message: always choose to fight.
- Why being fully present is one of life's greatest leadership skills.
Quotes:
“Players don’t do what you tell them to do; players do what you train them to do.” —
@CoachEliot [0:03:26]“You can’t perform a job if you don’t know what the job description is.” —
@CoachEliot [0:07:34]“If you don’t continue to figure out how to get better – and if you don’t continue to try to learn, then you won’t make it in [the coaching] profession, because it’s constantly changing.” —
@CoachEliot [0:08:42]
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
What is Leadership Blueprints?
Leadership Blueprints is a podcast dedicated to helping leaders align teams, navigate chaos, and accomplish the mission. Hosted by BJ Kraemer—West Point graduate, combat veteran, and President & CEO of MCFA—this show dives into the principles, stories, and strategies behind effective leadership.
With a background in military service and experience leading teams in business, infrastructure, and complex projects, BJ understands that success comes down to execution, adaptability, and leading people well. Through in-depth interviews with accomplished leaders across business, sports, the military, and beyond, Leadership Blueprints will help you bring your vision to reality on projects that shape communities and industries.
Whether you’re leading in the boardroom, on the field, in the military, or within your own organization, this podcast is designed to provide the tools and mindset needed to lead with clarity, resilience, and purpose. Subscribe now and start building your Leadership Blueprint.