The Human Side of High Performance: A Conversation with Ben Lee
- Jan 20
- 2 min read
Success in the pool is often measured by the digits on a scoreboard, but the real magic happens in the relationships and intentions behind the scenes. I recently had the privilege of co-hosting the Get Out Swim podcast, where we sat down with Ben Lee, the founder of RaceBetter. Ben’s journey—spanning from elite coaching with Dave Marsh and the LA Current to launching successful startups—offers a unique perspective on how to integrate business acumen with the "soul" of the sport.
One of the most profound takeaways from our talk was Ben’s focus on unified communication. At his RaceBetter clinics, he doesn't just coach the athletes; he holds dedicated sessions for the parents. Ben emphasizes that "unexpressed expectations are premeditated resentment." By teaching parents how to have more empathetic, supportive conversations in the car ride home, he helps bridge the gap between coaches, athletes, and families, ensuring everyone is pulling in the same direction.
We also explored the concept of "Confidence Coaching." Ben shared a classic story about legendary coach Dave Marsh writing three different sets on the board—ranging from "recovery easy" to "brutally hard"—and letting the athletes choose their own path. This level of athlete autonomy fosters a deep sense of trust. It moves the needle from a transactional "do what I say" relationship to a partnership where the athlete learns to advocate for their own needs and mental state.
Ben didn't shy away from the "messy" side of leadership and growth. He spoke candidly about "burning the candle at both ends," even sharing that he has occasionally done gig work on the side just to keep his company’s capital focused on providing scholarships for kids who can't afford elite clinics. This commitment to legacy over luxury is a powerful reminder that money is simply a tool that amplifies what is already in your heart.
Technically, Ben’s approach to "Swimming Smart" is rooted in movement literacy. During his recent work at Georgia Tech, they focused on the "Why" of underwaters. Instead of just grinding yardage, they used classroom video sessions to compare body lines of world-class swimmers like Ryan Lochte. By connecting dryland mobility directly to in-water performance, they help swimmers understand how their physical "shapes" dictate their speed.
A highlight of the episode was Ben’s "Get Out Swim" story, which involved a surprise challenge from Dave Marsh that ended with Ben racing a 100 fly in khaki shorts and a belt. It was a hilarious yet poignant example of leading by example. When athletes see their coaches willing to "step into the arena" and risk a little embarrassment, it breaks down barriers and builds a culture of authentic, shared struggle.
Ultimately, Ben’s philosophy is that coaching is a calling, not just a career. Whether he’s managing pro athletes in the ISL or working with a 10-year-old on their first flip turn, the goal remains the same: building better humans. As a co-host, it was inspiring to see how stayng curious and prioritizing relationships can transform a "black line" sport into a life-changing journey.
Ready to dive deeper into the mindset of elite performance and the future of RaceBetter?
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