Key Moments
Coach George Raveling Interview | The Tim Ferriss Show (Podcast)
Tim FerrissKey Moments
George Raveling shares life lessons on mentorship, reading, and resilience from the "Human Google."
Key Insights
The "I Have a Dream" speech's iconic ad-lib was inspired by Mahalia Jackson, and Raveling possesses the original copy.
Raveling's life was shaped by mentors like his grandmother, Sister Dolores, and coaches Bob Knight and John Thompson.
A voracious reader, Raveling employs a unique note-taking system to extract maximum knowledge from books.
He advocates for intentionality in relationships, focusing on trust, respect, and adding value to others.
Raveling emphasizes the power of positive self-talk and daily intentionality to navigate life's challenges.
He collected racist memorabilia to serve as a historical reminder and legacy for future generations.
THE HISTORIC "I HAVE A DREAM" SPEECH
George Raveling recounts his unique experience at the 1963 March on Washington, where he served as security on the podium. He was unexpectedly handed the original copy of Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech by King himself. Raveling reveals that the famous "I Have a Dream" phrase was an impromptu addition, prompted by Mahalia Jackson, and not part of the original prepared remarks. This significant artifact became a lifelong reminder of the event's historical weight and Raveling's presence at its epicenter.
THE POWER OF MENTORSHIP AND GUIDANCE
Raveling's life trajectory was profoundly influenced by several key mentors. His grandmother instilled in him strong values and manners, while Sister Dolores at his boarding school fostered his belief in his own potential. Coaches like Bob Knight and John Thompson, whom he considers giants in his life, not only shaped his coaching philosophy but also pushed him to excel and discover hidden talents, such as his ability to write a book. These relationships underscore Raveling's belief that mentors can appear in unexpected forms and are crucial for personal and professional growth.
A LIFELONG AFFINITY FOR BOOKS AND KNOWLEDGE
Known as the "Human Google," Raveling is an obsessive reader with a personal library exceeding thousands of books. He developed this habit early in life, understanding that knowledge is power and a safeguard against control. Raveling employs a systematic approach to reading, often starting with the index and focusing on impactful chapters rather than reading cover-to-cover. He meticulously annotates books with multiple highlighters and then transfers key insights into journals, creating a rich repository of wisdom that informs his thinking and actions.
THE STRATEGY OF RELATIONSHIP BUILDING
Raveling views relationships as a privilege built on trust and respect, emphasizing a 'we' mentality over 'me.' He actively seeks to understand others' needs and find common ground, believing that helping others achieve their goals is the most effective way to achieve one's own. He also values relationships with younger individuals, finding their candor and forward-looking perspective invigorating. Raveling consistently asks himself, "What can I do for you?" demonstrating a commitment to mutual growth and contribution.
THE LEGACY OF RACIAL HISTORY AND COLLECTION
Raveling curates a significant collection of African American memorabilia, including over 300 postcards and 500 figurines, dating back to the late 19th century. This collection, valued at over $100,000, serves as a stark reminder of the historical injustices and derogatory depictions faced by Black people. He sees this collection not as a source of discomfort, but as a vital legacy for his children and grandchildren, a testament to the struggles overcome and the progress made, ensuring that the past is not forgotten.
THE IMPORTANCE OF SELF-TALK AND INTENTIONALITY
At 80 years old, Raveling prioritizes positive self-talk, believing it to be more crucial than external conversations. He dedicates time daily to motivational conversations with himself, eradicating doubt and cultivating a proactive mindset. He plans his days with intentional foci on energy, time, and environmental management, limiting tasks to ensure greatness over quantity. Raveling advocates for daily personal audits and continuous self-improvement, rejecting the concept of retirement as a cessation of contribution and embracing growth regardless of age.
PURSUING GROWTH AND FREEDOM IN LATER LIFE
Raveling expresses excitement for the opportunity to wake up each day and learn, particularly in navigating an uncertain future. He believes that authentic change begins within oneself and that leading oneself is paramount. His life motto, "If it is to be, it's up to me," underscores his belief in individual responsibility. He is currently focused on simplifying his life by divesting material possessions, striving for a sense of freedom from societal expectations and seeking to discover his outer limits through continuous exploration.
THE 1984 OLYMPIC JOURNEY AND THE DREAM TEAM
Raveling draws inspiration from a Bob Knight quote about serving one's country to motivate the 1984 U.S. Olympic basketball team. He also shares an anecdote about coaching the practice squad that surprisingly defeated the "Dream Team" in a scrimmage. Larry Bird's subsequent intense practice session after the loss deeply impacted players, highlighting the dedication required at the highest level. This experience reinforced Raveling's understanding of commitment and the pursuit of excellence.
CAREER TRANSFORMATION AND THE NIKE FOUNDATION
Despite graduating with an economics degree, Raveling found his true calling later in life, joining Nike at age 63 as Global Director of Sports Marketing. He previously played a key role in developing Nike's grassroots program starting in 1978. His initial involvement with Nike included a pivotal decision to accept stock options over cash, a move that proved incredibly lucrative. This career shift defied conventional expectations and demonstrated his capacity for leadership and business acumen beyond traditional paths.
THE ORIGIN STORY OF AIR JORDAN AND NIKE
Raveling played a significant role in convincing Michael Jordan to sign with Nike. He developed a close relationship with Jordan during the 1984 Olympics and persistently discussed the opportunity. Initially hesitant and leaning towards Adidas, Jordan was eventually persuaded by Nike's revolutionary concept of a signature shoe, "Air Jordan." Adidas's rejection of this idea was a pivotal moment, leading to the creation of a brand that would redefine sports marketing and elevate Jordan to global icon status.
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George Raveling's Principles for Growth and Life
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Common Questions
George Raveling attended the 1963 March on Washington as a volunteer security guard. After Dr. King finished his speech, George instinctively asked for a copy, and King handed him his prepared notes. This was before the speech became widely known as the 'I Have a Dream' speech, a title popularized by President Kennedy later.
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Mentioned in this video
A novel by Ernest Cline, recommended by Tim Ferriss.
A book by Jordan Peterson that captured George Raveling's attention immediately and is one of his most recommended books.
A newspaper George Raveling reads regularly as part of his information consumption routine.
A book written by George Raveling on the art of rebounding in basketball, inspired and pushed by Bob Knight, selling over 100,000 copies.
A first edition copy of this book is part of George Raveling's collection of black collectibles.
A book by Ryan Holiday, frequently gifted by George Raveling.
A fiction book by Neil Gaiman, recommended as a way to reintroduce non-fiction purists to fiction. Neil Gaiman's narration version is specifically liked.
A biography by Walter Isaacson, which intensely impacted George Raveling with its insights into leadership and life.
A biography by Walter Isaacson that George Raveling found remarkably understandable even for complex physics, also revealing Einstein's involvement in the 'Negro movement'.
A book by Yogi Bhajan and Guru Chara Khalsa that George Raveling was currently reading, exemplifying the wide range of his reading interests.
A biography by Walter Isaacson that profoundly impressed George Raveling, leading him to consider Franklin one of the most important Americans.
A newspaper George Raveling reads regularly as part of his information consumption routine.
A book by Tim Ferriss that introduced George Raveling to the concept of masterminds, leading to a life-changing experience.
A book by Ryan Holiday, frequently gifted by George Raveling.
Social media platform where George Raveling maintains a presence.
Competitor to Nike, initially preferred by Michael Jordan, but which ultimately passed on the signature shoe deal idea.
A company offering the largest selection of audiobooks, providing credits for audiobooks monthly and seamless device switching.
Social media platform where George Raveling maintains a presence.
George Raveling uses Google daily to research people and concepts he encounters in his reading, leading him to discover masterminds.
Sports apparel company for which George Raveling served as former Director of International Basketball and played a key role in signing Michael Jordan.
Social media platform where George Raveling maintains a presence.
Mentioned as a competitor in the basketball shoe market.
George Raveling's alma mater, where he played basketball and later coached.
The organization that asked George Raveling to coach the college practice team against the professional Dream Team for the 1992 Olympics.
University that offered George Raveling a basketball scholarship.
Prestigious institution where George Raveling has been inducted.
The seminary Martin Luther King Jr. attended in Chester, Pennsylvania, where he played basketball for their team.
College that heavily recruited George Raveling for basketball, with its coach writing handwritten letters.
Institution where George Raveling has been inducted.
George Raveling's friend from Villanova who worked for the FBI suggested they could use fingerprints to verify the authenticity of the MLK speech.
A Catholic boarding school in Pennsylvania where George Raveling lived and studied after his mother was institutionalized, providing structure and care.
Where George Raveling became the first black head basketball coach in the Big Ten, and where his possession of the MLK speech first became publicly known.
Coach who advised George Raveling to take Nike stock instead of cash in 1978. He also traveled to China with George for clinics.
Olympic team member who was inseparable with George Raveling and Michael Jordan during the 1984 Olympics.
Author of 'The Graveyard Book', whose narration of his own book is highly appreciated.
Basketball superstar whose reluctant signing with Nike, influenced by George Raveling, led to the creation of the iconic Air Jordan brand.
Basketball coach, lifelong friend and mentor to George Raveling, who pushed him to become the foremost authority on rebounding and write a book on the subject. He is also the source of an Olympic motivational quote.
Coached the college practice team with George Raveling against the Dream Team.
Author of 'Ready Player One'.
Basketball coach and mentor from George Raveling's neighborhood, known for his maverick thinking and for teaching George the value of listening more than talking.
Former head coach at the University of Maryland, for whom George Raveling served as an assistant, and who fueled George's passion for reading beyond sports.
Mentioned as the only college player on the 1992 US Olympic Dream Team.
One of the college players on George Raveling's practice team that scrimmaged the Dream Team.
Co-founder of Nike, who personally requested George Raveling's expertise to join the company.
Civil rights leader whose 'I Have a Dream' speech was given to George Raveling, forming a significant personal mentorship for George.
Hall of Fame coach at Saint Joseph's College who first offered George Raveling a basketball scholarship.
Olympic team member who was inseparable with George Raveling and Michael Jordan during the 1984 Olympics.
NBA legend from the Dream Team, who stayed an hour and 15 minutes after a scrimmage to shoot, showing immense dedication that inspired George Raveling's manager.
One of the college players on George Raveling's practice team that scrimmaged the Dream Team.
US President who, in the Oval Office, first referred to Martin Luther King Jr.'s address as the 'I Have a Dream speech'.
College coach who traveled with George Raveling and Bill Foster to China in 1978 for Nike clinics.
Mutual friend of Tim Ferriss and George Raveling, who made the introduction for the interview and is later mentioned as a respected author and trusted person.
A young man who taught George Raveling about technology and built his website, becoming a lifelong friend.
Professor at the University of Toronto and author of '12 Rules for Life', whose book George Raveling greatly admired and recommended.
An 80-year-old living legend, Nike's former Director of International Basketball, first African-American basketball coach in the Pac-8/Pac-12, nicknamed 'Human Google' for his extensive reading habits, and integral in signing Michael Jordan to Nike.
Former US President who gave George Raveling an autographed two-volume book on his presidency, which George used to store the MLK speech.
Head coach of the 1992 US Olympic Dream Team and a lifelong friend of George Raveling, who suggested George coach the college practice team.
Civil rights activist whom George Raveling considers a mentor and source of inspiration, particularly for his quote on history recording man's deeds.
One of George Raveling's favorite authors, known for his biographies of Steve Jobs, Benjamin Franklin, and Albert Einstein.
PhD master of Kundalini Yoga and one of the authors of 'The Mind: Its Projections and Multiple Facets', a book George Raveling was currently reading.
Head of Nike Basketball who asked George Raveling to help convince Michael Jordan to meet with Nike.
Michael Jordan's agent, who conceived the idea of the 'Air Jordan' signature shoe.
Legendary gospel singer credited with prompting Martin Luther King Jr. to ad-lib the 'I Have a Dream' portion of his speech.
Director known for his advertisements featuring Michael Jordan for Nike, which contributed to the Air Jordan brand's success.
One of the Chinese cities George Raveling visited in 1978 for clinics, where a coach copied his rebounding book.
One of the Chinese cities George Raveling visited in 1978 for clinics, before it was officially known as Beijing.
George Raveling visited China in 1978 with Nike for basketball clinics, observing profound cultural differences and a Chinese man's first encounter with a black person.
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