48: J.T. Curtis: More Than Wins

48: J.T. Curtis: More Than Wins

From Words of the Wise by Lexie Manor

September 17, 2025 · 1h 53m · Episode 48

About this episode

Coach J.T. Curtis shares his experiences and insights from a lifetime in high school sports and education.

Episode 48 of Words of the Wise features one of the most decorated and respected leaders in American high school sports and education: Coach J.T. Curtis . At 78 years old, J.T. is not only the winningest football coach in the nation with over 600 victories and 28 state championships, but also serves as Head of Schools at John Curtis Christian School —the very school his parents founded. Throughout our conversation, JT reflects on his upbringing in a pastor’s home, the leap of faith his father took to start the school, and the lessons he carried into coaching, education, and ministry. “My dad was a man who didn’t understand walls. He’d go over them, around them, or through them. And he taught me you’ve got to be qualified—you can’t just rely on a name, you’ve got to earn it.” J.T. shares stories of the mentors who shaped him, from his high school coach Bob Whitman to Arkansas coaching legend Frank Broyles. He also opens up about building not only a football dynasty, but a school community rooted in consistency and faith: “The key to success is consistency. Innovation is important, but you change because it’s better—not just because it’s new.” Beyond football, J.T. reflects on his…

People in this episode

Guest: J.T. Curtis

Topics covered

  • high school sports
  • coaching
  • education
  • leadership
  • family

Keywords

  • football
  • state championships
  • mentorship
  • consistency
  • faith

Mentioned in this episode

Products: John Curtis Christian School

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