Selected News

Janitell Junior High School coach and P.E. teacher Jacob Riehl turned a period of uncertainty during the COVID-19 pandemic into an opportunity for reflection, eventually publishing his book MotivationLESS: Simple Practices Toward Self-Reliance. What began as essays and podcast episodes created for his children grew into a five-year project shaped by his experience working with students and families, where he developed insight into what drives people and builds success. The book challenges the idea that motivation is the key to achievement, instead focusing on self-reflection, personal responsibility, and building agency. While balancing his roles as a father, husband, teacher, and coach, Riehl remained intentional with his time to complete the book, overcoming challenges in writing and the technical process with support and persistence. The final product reflects both personal growth and a message that encourages others to better understand themselves and take ownership of their path forward.