The Hidden Cost of Chasing Outcomes (And What to Do Instead) with Coach Cori Close

The Hidden Cost of Chasing Outcomes (And What to Do Instead) with Coach Cori Close

From Game Changers with Molly Fletcher by Molly Fletcher

April 16, 2026 · 52 min · Episode 262

About this episode

Cori Close discusses the balance between high performance and personal values in achieving success.

We love to celebrate winning—but we don't talk enough about what it takes to get there without losing yourself along the way. After 15 years as the head women's basketball coach at UCLA, Cori Close just led her team to a national championship. But behind that moment was a constant tension so many high performers face: Can you compete at the highest level without compromising what you believe in? In this conversation, Cori shares how she learned to manage that tension instead of trying to eliminate it—and why chasing outcomes can quietly pull you away from what matters most. From building a culture rooted in daily standards to redefining success beyond banners and rings, she offers a blueprint for leaders who want both excellence and alignment. By the end of this episode, you'll walk away with a new way to think about success—one that's built on who you become, not just what you achieve. More from Molly: Get Landon's new book: Landon: A Memoir Get Molly's latest book, Dynamic Drive Website: mollyfletcher.com

People in this episode

Host: Molly Fletcher

Guest: Cori Close

Topics covered

  • success
  • leadership
  • high performance
  • culture
  • personal values
  • coaching

Keywords

  • coaching
  • national championship
  • high performers
  • outcomes
  • leadership
  • culture

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: UCLA

Books & works: Landon: A Memoir, Dynamic Drive

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