Mastering the Mind, Strengthening the Spirit, Leading with Purpose
by Gus "BigDawg" Felder
The Inside Game
Mastering the Mind, Strengthening the Spirit, Leading with Purpose
by Gus “BigDawg” Felder
What does it take to go from a high school dropout in North Philadelphia to a college graduate, NFL athlete, and national leader in college football? Grit, grace, and the Inside Game.
In this powerful and deeply personal debut, Coach Gus “BigDawg” Felder shares the spiritual, mental, and leadership principles that shaped his life—from the locker rooms of Penn State and the NFL to mentoring thousands of student-athletes across the country.
The Inside Game blends Stoic wisdom, biblical truth, and real-life stories to help readers overcome adversity, stay rooted in purpose, and lead with courage. Each of the fifteen chapters opens with a timeless quote, unfolds with a defining life moment, and ends with a practical leadership challenge. Whether you're a coach, athlete, parent, or leader, this book will equip you to:
✅ Lead from the inside out
✅ Build unshakable character
✅ Finish what you start—with fire
With raw honesty and heartfelt faith, Coach Felder takes you behind the scenes of a life marked by struggle, growth, and unwavering commitment to family and purpose.
This is more than a sports story—this is a blueprint for life.
Perfect for coaches, student-athletes, fathers, and anyone who wants to lead with integrity, purpose, and faith.
Order your copy today and start building your Inside Game.
“5.0 out of 5 stars The Inside Game Reviewed in the United States on July 17, 2025 Format: HardcoverVerified Purchase As a former player under Coach Gus Felder, I’ve experienced firsthand the impact of his leadership—on and off the field. This book is a powerful reflection of everything he taught us: mental toughness, physical discipline, and spiritual grounding. Every lesson we lived through is captured here with purpose and clarity. Coach Felder doesn’t just coach athletes—he builds men. I’m proud to be an olive branch of his leadership, and this book will serve as a guide for anyone looking to grow in all areas of life. Whether you’re an athlete, a leader, or someone simply chasing personal excellence, this book is a must-read. ”
Sal Major
“5.0 out of 5 stars The Inside Game": Essential Reading for Any NCO (Past or Present) Reviewed in the United States on July 11, 2025 Format: HardcoverVerified Purchase As a former US Army Sergeant, who has led and trained troops from all walks of life, "The Inside Game" by Gus "BigDawg" Felder hit home. Felder lays out a solid framework for mental toughness and purpose-driven leadership that any NCO worth their salt will recognize. He's talking about the internal fight, the grit you need to push through, and how to lead effectively by example, all stuff we drilled into our Joes. It's not about fluff. It's practical insights for mastering your head and guiding others. This book reinforces what good leaders already know, and it's a good kick in the rear for anyone needing to refocus their inner game.”
Dwain C. Sharp
Welcome to BigDawgs Books
I’m Gus “BigDawg” Felder former college and NFL player, coach, husband, father, and now author. I’ve spent over 20 years helping athletes and leaders grow stronger in mind, body, and spirit, and that same passion led me to create this bookstore. Every book you’ll find here comes from real experiences faith, leadership, adversity, and purpose. My goal is simple: to inspire you to win your own inside game and live with greater focus, strength, and faith. Thank you for being part of this journey. I’m truly grateful for your support and can’t wait for you to dive into these pages. With gratitude and purpose, Gus “BigDawg” Felder
The Inside Game: A 31-day journey to sharpen your mind, strengthen you spirit, and lead with wisdom
by Gus "BigDawg" Felder
Workbook to be use daily with your personal bible to help you better understand.
A 31-day challenge to build wisdom, faith, and mental strength.
The Inside Game: Proverbs and the Path to Inner Strength pairs verses from the Book of Proverbs with Stoic quotes to help athletes, coaches, and leaders grow spiritually and mentally. Use it with your Bible to reflect, reset, and lead with purpose every day.