Dave Roberts on leadership, culture and representing Los Angeles

For Dave Roberts, success starts with culture.

In a new UCLA video, the Los Angeles Dodgers manager and UCLA alumnus reflects on leadership, positivity and the lessons that continue to shape his approach both on and off the field. Roberts, who has led the Dodgers to five World Series appearances and three championships during his decade as manager, says sustained success depends less on talent alone and more on trust, accountability and collective purpose.

"Anyone can have a great year, whether it's in business or on a ball field or basketball court, wherever," Roberts says in the video. "But sustained success, unequivocally, undoubtedly, it's culture."

Roberts has said many of his leadership instincts were shaped during his time at UCLA, where he played baseball under legendary coach Gary Adams. He has described himself at the time as "a small fish in a huge pond," and has credited UCLA with teaching him to bet on himself and embrace positivity in uncertain moments.

Roberts has also spoken about the influence of legendary UCLA basketball coach John Wooden, whose emphasis on discipline, respect and consistency continues to shape his leadership philosophy.

"We got to play for something bigger than ourselves," Roberts says. "And then your individual performance, I believe, will go up."

The video also explores how Roberts keeps players grounded through the pressure of a long baseball season and postseason expectations. Rather than overreacting to setbacks, he says, the Dodgers focus on consistency and daily preparation.

"We got to lay it all out there today. Dominate today," Roberts says. "Whatever happens, we pick up the pieces and we do it tomorrow."

Watch an audio description version of the video here.