Dr. Michael Herbert grew up in Hollister, CA and played multiple sports through high school including cross country, water polo and swimming but basketball was his passion. He went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from Sonoma State University in 1998 and then his master’s degree from Humboldt State in 2002. Both degrees were in Kinesiology with an emphasis on teaching and coaching. After his graduation from Humboldt in 2002 he went to the University of New Mexico where he earned his Ph.D. in Health, Physical Education & Recreation with an emphasis in curriculum & instruction and a minor in educational psychology. Dr. Herbert has coached and taught at the middle school, high school and collegiate levels for over 15 years. He also spent 13 years in higher education administration. Dr. Herbert started the #beBETTER brand over 10 years ago when he developed his “parent sessions” to help parents understand the best ways to support their kids, communicate with coaches and feel good about their own parenting styles. Dr. Herbert currently resides in Eureka, CA with his wife, who coaches collegiate softball and his 2 sons. Both boys compete and participate in a variety of sports.
dr. michael herbert
“Dr. Herbert was an outstanding keynote speaker for our Northcoast National Girls and Women in Sports Day. He engaged a large audience of middle school girls with an interactive presentation that had everyone participating. His positive energy and message were a highlight of the day.”— Bliss Blackburn, HS Student-AthleteHelping people #beBETTER through speaking, workshops, consulting, and The #beBETTER Podcast.
“I've known Dr. Mike Herbert for over 30 years and have seen the positive impact he has had on coaches, students, players, and parents. Through his interactive workshops and the Be Better Podcast, he helps others be their best selves by giving people a voice and helping them feel heard and understood. His engaging approach makes every session meaningful and impactful.”— Mark Bauer, PE Teacher & #beBetter Podcast Guest (Ep. 39)“Athletics is more than winning and losing. Participating in sports provides a wonderful training ground for life. Every interaction with a team member will shape an athlete’s character and perspective on the world. However, what I have learned is that a parent’s influence is the most powerful education a student athlete will ever receive. The wisdom that Mike Herbert provides to parents about their role in making sure their student athlete carries something more valuable than trophies or accolades into adulthood is exceptional and very timely.”— Dr. Keith Flamer, President at College of the Redwoods & Rotary Member“As a high school basketball coach, Dr. Herbert has made a huge impact on my program. His #beBetter message goes way beyond wins and losses. he teaches the value of teamwork, positive coaching, and meaningful parent involvement. It has helped my program become less reactional and more transformational. Any school, athletic program, or organization that wants to make a lasting positive impact on student athletes would benefit from partnering with Mike and the #BeBetter program.”— Doug Miles, Coach“Coach Herbert believed in me long before I believed in myself. He saw potential I couldn't yet see and challenged me to become the best version of myself. Through his ability to listen, teach, and genuinely care about others, he helped me grow a little every day. Over the years, I've watched him have that same impact on countless others in helping people discover their strengths, build confidence, and become better versions of themselves. His influence on my life, and the lives of so many others, extends far beyond basketball.”— Heather Weber, Coach & Former Athlete