Darleen Santore

Life, Leadership & Mental Edge Coach NBA NFL MLB NHL, Execs. OTR/L Therapist,Speaker, USA Ambassador 4Pay It Forward lululemon ambassador, Jon Gordon speaker

[Darleen Santore @TheCoachDar]

Don’t confuse attention for authority! Take a listen

[Darleen Santore @TheCoachDar]

When I was in the hospital after my third stroke, I remember staring at the heart monitor.

Watching the line go up.

Watching it go down.

Praying it wouldn’t go flat.

And then a thought hit me.

Why do so many of us spend our lives chasing a flat line?

We want careers without setbacks.
Relationships without conflict.
Children without adversity.
Faith without doubt.
Growth without discomfort.

But the very thing we ask God to remove is often the thing that makes us who we become.

Strength is built in resistance.
Character is forged in adversity.
Faith grows when life doesn’t go according to plan.

A healthy heart doesn’t beat in a straight line.

It rises.
It falls.

That’s not a sign something is wrong.

That’s a sign it’s alive.

The same is true for you.

If you’re in a lull right now, don’t assume your life is off track.

Don’t quit.
Don’t panic.
Don’t lose hope.

Hold on.

The next beat is up.

And it may be the one that changes everything.

#resilience #mindsetmatters #persevere #hope

[Darleen Santore @TheCoachDar]

What if you were the blessing someone prayed for? What if we all looked for ways to pay it forward everyday? As I go around the country and world for that matter speaking I see so many people fighting the good fight but just needing a little kindness to help get them thru the day.

What if that came from you?

What if you are the one that heplps someone get thru one more day?

What if you made one introduction that gave them a job or next client?

What if you looked up to see who was in need right in front of you?

I know I wouldn’t be where I am today if I didn’t have people help me out if the goodness of their heart.

So look for how you can be the blessing in someone’s life today!

Paying it forward is a way of life, join in!

#payitforward #kindnessmatters

[Darleen Santore @TheCoachDar]

Sometimes we think fear is the warning sign to stop. But what if fear is actually the sign that your life is about to expand?

When I look back at the moments that changed my life, almost every single one started the same way:
with uncertainty,
with doubt,
with wondering if I was really capable,
with the temptation to stay safe instead of stepping forward.

Every great thing in my life came after a moment where I was scared to take the leap.

Leaving what was familiar.
Starting over.
Walking into rooms I didn’t feel fully ready for.
Betting on myself before there was proof it would work.
Choosing growth over comfort.
Choosing purpose over approval.

And the truth is, none of those moments felt fearless.

They felt uncomfortable.
Messy.
Vulnerable.
Risky.

But I’ve learned something:
the life you want is usually on the other side of the decision you’re afraid to make.

Most people don’t fail because they lack talent.
They fail because they stay where it’s comfortable too long.

They stay in unhealthy relationships longer than they should have.
The career that drains them.
The routine that keeps them small.
The friend’s circle that is no longer in alignment.
The identity they’ve already outgrown.

And not because they can’t grow…
but because fear convinces them that staying the same is safer.

But staying the same has a cost too.

Growth will stretch you before it strengthens you.
Every new level asks for a version of you that you haven’t fully met yet.

So if you’re in that space right now…
the uncomfortable space…
the uncertain space…
the “what if this doesn’t work?” space…

Maybe this is your SIGN.

You do not need guarantees to begin.
You just need enough courage to take the next step.

Because one day you may look back and realize:
the moment you were most afraid to leap
was the moment your life was trying to change for the better. (I’m living proof of this)

Send this to someone who needs the reminder:
sometimes the real risk isn’t failing…
it’s never giving yourself the chance to become who you were meant to be.

#taketherisk #encouragement #mindset

[Darleen Santore @TheCoachDar]

The rooms that change the world are rarely built on ego or fame. They’re built on heart, humility, and people who genuinely care about others.

And after years of working and doing life with those the world calls “famous” , I found family not because of fame but because of their hearts!

The truly great ones have the greatest hearts.

And Tonight was filled with many of my favorite humans… incredible leaders, athletes, visionaries, and people operating at the highest levels. But what stood out most about tonight wasn’t ego.

It was kindness.
Humility.
Servant leadership.
The way people genuinely cared about one another.

[Darleen Santore @TheCoachDar]

One of the most powerful skills you’ll ever develop is not reacting.

People will test you.
They’ll push buttons.
They’ll send the message designed to pull you into chaos, arguments, and unnecessary energy leaks.

But maturity is realizing:

Not every invitation deserves your attendance.
Not every opinion deserves your defense.
Not every message deserves your response.

Peaceful people protect their focus.

You don’t have to match someone’s volume.
You don’t have to prove your point.
You don’t have to enter every arena you’re invited into.

Sometimes the strongest response…
is no response at all.

Leave the drama on unread.
Protect your energy.
Protect your mission.

Because the people doing big things in life don’t have time to argue with small chaos. 🔥

Save for the next time someone tries to bring you into their drama.

#boundries #nodrama

[Darleen Santore @TheCoachDar]

Medaling isn’t just about standing on a podium.
It’s about standing on thousands of unseen mornings.

Early alarms.
Lonely reps.
Missed comfort.
Quiet discipline.

Years where no one was watching…
until suddenly, the whole world is.

The honor isn’t the medal.
The honor is becoming the kind of person who could carry that moment with humility.

To even make the Olympics is rare.
To medal for your country at any level?
That’s exceptional.
That’s a lifetime of sacrifice condensed into seconds.

And here’s the lesson for the rest of us:
You don’t rise to big moments by luck.
You earn them by how you live the small ones.

Build your standard when no one’s clapping.
Because the podium is just the echo of the work.

If this hit you
ask yourself:
What standard are you building when no one is watching?

Save this.
Send it to someone in the unseen grind.
And keep showing up.
Your podium is being built long before anyone applauds.

#olympics #greatness

[Darleen Santore @TheCoachDar]

Stop Explaining Your Worth to People Who Can’t Afford Your Wisdom

They’ll question the price, the rate, the number on the invoice…
Because they don’t see the 30 years behind the 30 minutes.

Let them.
Because this isn’t about time
This is about transformation.

I don’t charge for what I do in the moment.
I charge for what it took to become the person who could deliver that moment.

To anyone who’s mastered their craft
Who’s paid in time, training, trials, tenacity, education, and sacrifice
The kind of sacrifice that looks like missed events, late nights, early mornings…
The years you stayed in training or working while others went out.
The discipline when no one was watching. (That’s what builds a pro)
You don’t owe anyone a discount on your destiny.

Does a pro-level player negotiate down because of their skill?
No.
They get paid more because of their mastery.

Stop explaining your worth to people who can’t afford your wisdom.
You’ve earned this. Now own it.

Tag someone who needs this reminder today 👇

#KnowYourWorth

[Darleen Santore @TheCoachDar]

Right now in the NFL, someone’s living their dream and someone else is watching theirs slip away. But both moments matter.

For some, it’s the highest high. For others, it’s the end of the road.

That’s the paradox of high performance: on any given day, one person’s best moment is another’s worst. Someone gets the win and someone has to walk away.

But here’s the truth that I coach all year on…your value isn’t defined by the scoreboard. Whether you advance or don’t, the effort, the heart, and the growth you’ve shown matters. Believe me this is compound interest on your future!

So if today was your win, honor it. And if today was your loss, embrace the suck, feel it, learn from it, but don’t let it define you.
Instead, Let it refine you.

Because championship mindsets aren’t just built on victories. They’re built on how you rise after the hardest moments.

Let me leave you with this!

Win with grace. Lose with grit. Either way, grow.

#mentaltoughness #coachdar #NFLPlayoffs #superbowl #bounceback

[Darleen Santore @TheCoachDar]

This One Practice Changes Your Nervous System

Ever just stop… and feel overwhelmed with gratitude?

Not for the big things.
But for the simple ones we forget to notice.

Purpose-driven work.
Good people you can count on.
Your health.
Real connection.
Community.

Here’s what most people miss:
gratitude isn’t a mindset it’s a nervous system shift.

When you practice gratitude, your brain literally down-regulates stress,
calms the amygdala,
and activates the prefrontal cortex
the part of you responsible for clarity, creativity, and presence.

That’s why when you feel gratitude
not just think it
your whole state changes.
Peace replaces pressure.
Joy replaces noise.

And when people ask where that peace comes from?
For me, it’s God.
And a daily practice of recognizing what He’s already given.

This isn’t passive positivity.
It’s mental training.
It’s emotional regulation.
It’s leadership from the inside out.

That’s why I teach it.
Because gratitude doesn’t just change your perspective
it rewires your capacity to live well.

Welcome to my work: helping you become more human,
and build the mental and human capital this world desperately needs.

If this resonates, share it with someone you’re grateful for.

[Darleen Santore @TheCoachDar]

I’ve been off X for a bit but coming back to help. This year, my practice is expanding
not around motivation, but around core identity and achieving excellence.

I’ll be sharing how identity-based change actually works:
how the top 1% build confidence, gain clarity in their path,
and act with courage consistently, not occasionally.

This isn’t about doing more.
It’s about becoming someone who sustains excellence.

This is the work I do.
More to come. #SuccessJourney

[Darleen Santore @TheCoachDar]

Want 2026 to be different, better? Want to succeed in your goals this year? Do this! #NewYear2026

[Darleen Santore @TheCoachDar]

Is there anything Biz can’t do😂Sign him up for the dance squad, @BizNasty2point0 looks like you have a new day job!

[Darleen Santore @TheCoachDar]

Addicted to growth. Obsessed with strength. Fueled by health. Anchored in faith. 🙏

This isn’t about chasing perfection, it’s about choosing progress.
It’s not about aesthetics, it’s about alignment.

When you commit to being strong in all areas of life, you show up differently. You lead differently. You think clearer, move sharper, and live with more intention.

Strength isn’t just in the gym.
It’s in the discipline to show up when it’s inconvenient.
It’s in the choice to fuel your body, protect your peace, and prioritize your potential.

You don’t need to be the biggest in the room just the most committed.
Because real power comes from consistency.
And when you live from that place, every part of your life gets stronger.

Addicted to growth. Obsessed with strength. Fueled by health. Anchored in faith.
Say it, live it, be it.
.
#mentalnotes #fuelyourbody #Faith

[Darleen Santore @TheCoachDar]

@J_Swish24 Let’s go! Absolutely love this Swish!

[Darleen Santore @TheCoachDar]

The Reality Behind Success

We often hear the phrase, “Everyone wants the platform.” But let’s be real—it’s not just about getting there; it’s about enduring the process.

Success doesn’t come easy. It requires resilience, grit, and a relentless commitment to your vision. While the spotlight may seem glamorous, the grind behind the scenes is where true champions are forged.

For those ready to embrace the challenge, remember: the path may be tough, but the rewards are worth every ounce of effort. Stay focused, stay driven, and let your journey inspire others.

#Leadership #AthleteMindset #Resilience #SuccessJourney

[Darleen Santore @TheCoachDar]

The world needs dreamers and the world needs doers. But above all what the world needs most are dreamers that do! Here’s to the ones who do!
.
#therealreal @DevinBook @AfricanParks Grateful for
Rob Walton and friends.

[Darleen Santore @TheCoachDar]

The Power of Approval and Rejection

In life, seeking approval can be a double-edged sword. While positive feedback can propel us forward and fuel our ambition, the weight of rejection can feel overwhelming.

It’s key to remember that your value isn’t defined by others’ opinions. Instead, focus on your growth, resilience, and the journey you undertake in your career.

As your coach I encourage you cultivate a mindset that appreciates constructive feedback while also recognizing your inherent worth, regardless of external validation.
.
And remember Don’t give anyone that much power over you.

After all, true success comes from within. You Win From Within!

So let me ask you, how do you manage the balance between seeking approval and maintaining self-worth? Share your thoughts! 💬

Own your worth!

🫡
Dar

#ProfessionalGrowth #Mindset #Resilience #Feedback

[Darleen Santore @TheCoachDar]

Exciting Expansion

I’m excited to announce that my coaching / leadership / therapy practice and agency is entering a transformative phase! We’re expanding into new destinations and enhancing our services to support pro athletes, C level executives, founders, and peak performers.

A movement is coming…

Additionally, I’m exploring new business opportunities and TV Shows that will broaden the impact.

While I can’t share all the details just yet, I’m eager to take you along this journey.

Stay tuned for updates as my team and I elevate the mission and expand our reach!

#CoachDar #BusinessExpansion #Leadership #Coaching

[Darleen Santore @TheCoachDar]

Hi there! I’m Dar, and I want to emphasize the importance of prioritizing your health to gain an edge in life—mind, body, and spirit. Achieving this isn’t easy; it requires consistency and dedication. However, you have a choice: invest in your health now or face the consequences later.

By focusing on your physical, mental, emotional, and relational well-being, you can truly enhance your life, business and sport. The traditional healthcare system and talk therapy are flawed, and that’s why the work I do with my clients is different! It not only improves their health on all levels but also gives them an edge and enriches their lives. That’s where the real advantage lies!
#theedge #healthyliving