How Michael McLean Built a Winning Life—One Small Step at a Time

A few weeks back, I had the privilege of sitting down with Michael McLean—an entrepreneur, author, and former professional hockey coach with a powerful story of transformation. What struck me most wasn’t just his success, but how he got there: through small, deliberate steps taken with intention and heart.

Michael’s journey is a testament to perseverance, discipline, and the kind of mindset that turns setbacks into stepping stones. Whether you’re running a business, leading a team, or simply trying to live more intentionally, his story is packed with practical wisdom and inspiration.

A Life-Changing Moment

It all started with a pivotal conversation with his father. A moment that could’ve gone unnoticed—but for Michael, it shifted everything. That single exchange ignited a lifelong commitment to growth, discipline, and creating a life of impact.

Key Lessons from Our Conversation

✅ The Power of Small StepsMichael shared how focusing on “singles” rather than swinging for the fences helped him build an industry-leading insurance agency over 17 years. His secret? Showing up daily and doing the work, even when no one’s watching.

✅ Winning the First Hour of the DayHe credits much of his momentum to what he calls “stacking early wins.” That first hour? It’s sacred. It’s where he journals, moves, and sets the tone for a successful day.

✅ The Discipline of Saying NoMichael calls it “Vitamin N”—learning to say no to the noise so you can say yes to what matters. It’s one of the most underrated forms of discipline.

✅ Why Email is Still KingIn an age of algorithms and flashy marketing, Michael believes one of the most powerful tools for business owners is still a well-nurtured email list. It's direct, personal, and insanely effective.

✅ Transforming Failure Into GrowthMichael was once fired from a hockey coaching job. Instead of letting it define him, he turned it into fuel—rebuilding with even more clarity, purpose, and grit.

✅ How to Build a Winning TeamHis hiring approach is all about character. He looks for coachable people with heart and resilience, even if they don’t check every box on paper.

✅ The Role of Visualization and MindsetMichael is big on intention. He visualizes the kind of day he wants to have—and prepares mentally for both success and setbacks.

Practical Moves You Can Make Today

💥 Win Your First HourStart your day with movement, reflection, or planning—whatever aligns you with your goals.

💥 Choose Discipline Over ComfortDiscipline isn’t about restriction—it’s about creating the freedom to thrive.

💥 Prioritize Small, Consistent ActionsProgress isn’t about grand gestures. It’s about showing up, day after day.

💥 Build and Nurture Your Email ListIf you own a business, this might be your most valuable asset. Start building it now.

💥 Reframe FailureWhat if every setback was actually the setup for your next breakthrough?

Resources to Dive Deeper

📖 Download Michael’s book for free: BrassBallSecrets.com

📘 Grab my book Small Steps, Big Wins: Get it here

🌐 Learn more about my work: SueSaller.com

Final Thoughts

Michael’s story reminds us that success isn’t about luck or talent alone—it’s about consistency, clarity, and doing the small things right, over and over again. His wisdom is a roadmap for anyone ready to take life to the next level—one small step at a time.

So take a breath, realign with your purpose, and take that next step—because your big win could be just around the corner.