Keith Hertling’s “Life Lessons on Leadership, Coaching and Culture”

iUniverse author Keith Hertling discusses his new book, Life Lessons on Leadership, Coaching and Culture.

Please briefly describe your book . . .

Life Lessons on Leadership, Coaching and Culture is a summary of 40 years-worth of coaching stories and lessons that apply to any company or business that values the need to develop their culture. These lessons will help improve enthusiasm, inspire employees and increase the effectiveness of their teams.

It’s a guide for business owners, managers and employees on how to design and maintain great culture and leadership. It also reveals how Jersey Mike’s Franchise Systems has built a stellar worldwide brand.

Insights include:

-Inspiring teams to rethink how they approach work

-conducting interviews and recruiting the right teams

-adapting tactics to different learning styles

-necessary qualities and habits of great coaching

And can you tell us a little about yourself?

I embraced Entrepreneurship and founded Popeye’s Gym along with 2 great friends at the age of 15. A local haven for focused athletes, police and firemen and lifeguards. It laid the foundation for my future leadership skills. My first coaching job would be with the Special Olympics in 1976. I also became the Area Director for 3 years before graduating Benedictine College in Atchison, KS with a degree in Special Ed and a minor in Theology where I also worked in Campus Ministry.  I was a three time All-American in football and Academics and was inducted into their Hall of Fame in 1994.

I earned a Master’s degree in Counseling Education from Kansas University. Coached football in HS and College and later became a leader in the fitness industry for 20 years, as owner and operator of Popeye’s Cardio Fitness Center in Topeka, KS. My teams won many awards for innovation and design and trademarked RYTHMETRICS, a circuit weight training program designed to music. Became a certified personal trainer and Life Coach. In addition, was a program coach for the American Diabetes Association and led teams in marathon races around the world. Today, I’ve been coaching franchisees and their managers for Jersey Mike’s Subs as well as mentoring the elite field team to cultivate a culture known as “A Sub Above.”

Do you have any particular literary influences?

Firstly, I believe we all have a book in us (or more) and we just need to start writing. After reading approximately 100 books in the past 5 years, (most over the friendly skies and airport delays), I thought it was my turn. I’ve had a great many mentors and coaches over the years who influenced my philosophy (including 3 Hall of Fame coaches in college alone.) I’d have to say however I have been most inspired by a lifetime connection with the Monks of Benedictine college. They shaped my character in my college years and beyond. “The quality of your thinking affects the quality of your life.” This was a basic teaching with them. They also taught balance in life. Equal time to Mind, Body and Spirit. It’s a very humble life. They also encouraged me to memorize poems and proverbs and strengthen the mind in many other ways. Like the owner of a general store who can put his hands on anything you need, old or new whenever you need it, I left with a useful toolbox for life. I have dedicated the proceeds of this book to them.

What is the one message you would like to convey to your readers?

Golden Rule: Anyone in a leadership position needs to fully understand what this means to be effective — in my humble opinion.

Are you working on a sequel to Life Lessons on Leadership, Coaching and Culture?

At this time, I am contemplating publishing my collection of poems (50 or so). I was a Walt Whitman finalist years ago, so I might have a few good ones in the fold. Otherwise, I’m currently helping a couple friends with their book projects.

Are there any events, marketing ideas, or promotions planned for your book?

My friend and founder of Jersey Mike’s, Peter Cancro has generously postured myself with Jon Gordon and Robert Herjavec at our National Conference in September. I’ll also have a book launch party TBD. In addition, I have access to a great social media team at our corporate office and currently touring the country representing our brand with Coaches Clinics, Sub Above Tour Rally’s and Leadership workshops.

Finally, what advice would you give to aspiring authors?

Get started. Most likely you are already an expert in your field. Take a week or 10 days alone and hammer it out.

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