Nellie's Podcast

Rob Stockton: The Foundation Behind the Stockton Family | Ep. 17

Rob Stockton is a former All-American at Georgia Southern, a leader in business, and—more than anything—a devoted husband and father. In this episode, he shares the stories that shaped him: the mentors who guided his path, the values he built his life on, and the legacy he’s working to leave through his family. Rob opens up about his wife’s journey to finding her calling, the strength and spirit of his daughter, and how his son, Gunner, has been a light to others both on and off the field. If you’re a young father or coach looking for direction, Rob offers timeless advice on what it really means to lead and love well.

Rance Gillespie: Coaching Lessons That Built a Title-Winning Team | Ep. 16

Coach Rance Gillespie has left his mark on Georgia high school football with two state titles and a reputation as one of the best in the game. In this episode, he shares how football became his passion—from childhood visits to his grandma’s house where he’d stare at his uncle’s All-American trophy, to suiting up at the University of Georgia. He breaks down the turning points in his coaching career, the mentors who shaped him, and the key games that defined his legacy.

Josh Niblett: How to Build a Program Players Buy Into | Ep. 15

In this episode, I sit down with Coach Josh Niblett, Head Coach at Gainesville High School. We talk about what it was like growing up as a coach’s kid, how he fell in love with the game at a young age, and how his playing career led him into coaching. He shares the mentors who shaped him, the lessons that stuck, and a funny story from his early coaching days with one of his best linebackers. Coach Niblett breaks down exactly how he builds championship culture — and how that culture is what wins games. His answers are detailed, real, and full of wisdom.

Gene Durden: How Relationships Build the Right to Coach Hard | Ep. 14

In this episode, I sit down with Coach Gene Durden — head coach of Buford Girls Basketball and one of the most respected coaches in the state. With multiple state titles, his program is elite — but what really sets him apart is how he gets his players to buy in. We talk about how he coaches with intensity, holds kids to a high standard, and still has them hugging him after the game. He explains how to get on a player without losing them — how to coach hard but still make them feel loved. Coach Durden also opens up about losing his son, Devin, in a tragic car accident and the last conversation they had. It’s powerful. And it changed the way he coaches forever. If you’re a coach who wants to lead a team that fights for you, trusts you, and gives everything they’ve got, listen.

Paul Standard: How Mentors Molded This Championship Coach | Ep. 13

In this episode, I sit down with the legendary Coach Paul Standard, one of Georgia’s most respected high school football coaches. Currently the head coach at Gilmer County, Coach Standard is best known for his incredible legacy at St. Pius X, where he built a powerhouse program. Coach Standard shares how he got into coaching football, the mentors who shaped his career, and some of his favorite game memories – including his unforgettable upset against Marist and a young Sean McVay. He also dives into the secrets behind his consistent success, emphasizing the vital role a supportive “coach’s wife” plays in a coach’s journey.