Your lifetime playbook for success

The Academy for Character & Leadership inspires individuals to lead with integrity, collaborate with purpose, and make an impact that lasts a lifetime.

Andy Olds coaching students during a leadership workshop on a football field

About the Academy

The Academy for Character & Leadership was born from the vision of Andy Olds, a leader and educator with over 36 years of experience. From a small farming community to becoming a Hall of Fame coach, Andy's journey taught him that leadership is not about status or title—it's about character.

Integrity

Leading with honesty and strong moral principles

Empathy

Understanding others and building meaningful connections

Collaboration

Achieving greatness by working together

Resilience

Embracing challenges and learning through adversity

Hear From Our Leaders

Hundreds of amazing leaders have trusted ACL to empower their organizations

Dr. Sam Ison, Superintendent
What made Andy’s presentation so effective was that it was much more than a motivational speech. He created an experience that connected directly to our work with students. His emphasis on relationships, authenticity, finding our “why,” and remembering that “winning kids” is more important than simply winning games gave our teachers meaningful takeaways that they can take with them into their classrooms every day.
Dr. Sam Ison
Superintendent
Wayne Local Schools
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Doug Mader, Superintendent
Andy inspired us. He left our staff not only motivated but also equipped with practical tools to strengthen their connections with students and colleagues. His impact on our culture will be felt long beyond this one day.
Doug Mader
Superintendent
Coldwater Exempted Village Schools
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Darryn G. Chenault, Head Football Coach
Coach Olds helped our players understand that leadership is a daily choice and that strong relationships—built on trust, accountability, and attitude—are the foundation of any successful team. His message was clear, actionable, and grounded in values that go beyond the game.
Darryn G. Chenault
Head Football Coach
Sycamore High School
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Jon Sanchez, CEO
I highly recommend Andy Olds! I have personally witnessed and participated in his training for over 10 years. He is a man of integrity, real world experience, and grit. He brings over 30 years of coaching and leadership experience to the table. His lessons are immediately applicable and have great impact on the organizations that hire him.
Jon Sanchez
CEO
Team Performance Institute
Dewayne Kirkman, VP, Student Affairs
His ability to take kinesthetic games and connect them to team building and the workplace is simply outstanding! I look forward to bring Mr. Andy back to be with us soon—he has a special gift of development!
Dewayne Kirkman
VP, Student Affairs
Clark State College
Kari Hoffman, Head Women's Basketball Coach
Andy personalized the activities to suit our values and made everyone feel at ease to participate. We were challenged by every event and saw our players' leadership abilities improve by the time we were done. It was well worth our time!
Kari Hoffman
Head Women's Basketball Coach
Wright State University
Paul Taylor, Lead Pastor
When it comes to leadership and building teams, Andy Olds is a master. With decades of leadership experience, and more importantly, competency in character and values, Andy will add value to your team. His Leadership Workshop was a blast for our team!
Paul Taylor
Lead Pastor
Rivers Crossing Church
Brian Foos, Head Football Coach
Coach Olds does a great job of encouraging interactive activities while providing opportunities to have members get to know each other. We started our football season with Coach Olds so we can become a team through impactful interaction with each other. Thank you Coach Olds!
Brian Foos
Head Football Coach
Capital University
Greg Sears, Super Intendent
Andy has a gift for connecting with people from all walks of life through powerful storytelling and lessons drawn from his own experiences. His passion for helping others become their best selves is authentic and contagious. He doesn't just lecture you, but really makes you examine your own values, beliefs, and behavior in a way that encourages personal growth.
Greg Sears
Super Intendent
Kings School District
Darcy Nichols, VP, Marketing Comm. and Federation Engagement
The Academy for Character & Leadership Development is your answer. They don't just teach; they transform. They don't just instruct; they inspire. And they don't just develop skills; they cultivate leaders who will undoubtedly make their mark on the world.
Darcy Nichols
VP, Marketing Comm. and Federation Engagement
Dairy.org

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