MOMs Running Point Podcast

Episodes

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  Episode 32 Sports MOM 201: Middle School Sports What's NOT in the Brochure 29.07.2026 27m

  Middle school is the weird awkward middle of youth sports — and this episode is the sports parenting advice you need to survive it. Sports MOMs 201 picks up where Sports MOMs 101 left off and dives into the 6th, 7th, and 8th grade years — when club kids, rec kids, and never-played kids all land on the same team, and it can be every bit as complicated for the parents. If you've ever wondered how to be a good sports parent when the sideline gets political, or how to be a supportive sports parent when your kid gets cut, this one is for you. This episode breaks down how middle school sports actually work — from mystery tryouts and back-to-back-to-back seasons to why your middle school coach (who is also the PE teacher) can't be your kid's personal skills trainer. You'll walk away with tips and strategies for parents of athletes covering everything from communication with coaches, to figuring out your kids skill development strategy, to knowing what belongs in the coach's inbox and what does NOT. We also tackle the sticky moments — like the perfect tip to escape a conversation you don't want to have.  Most importantly, this episode is a reminder of the parents' role in youth sports — not just chauffeuring and cheering, but setting boundaries, protecting our kids' bodies and joy, and building the sideline community we all wish we had. Whether your athlete is just starting middle school or already in the thick of it — this is the middle school playbook every sports mom needs. Thanks for listening to MOMs Running Point. Connect with MOMs Running Point:  Follow MOMs Running Point on Facebook Follow MOM's Running Point on Instagram Click here to sign up for the MOM's Running Point Newsletter!
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  Episode 31: Conflict in Sport with Dr. Jen Fry 04.07.2026 50m

  This week on Moms Running Point, I sit down with Dr. Jen Fry of JenFryTalks — a conflict resolution expert who has spent her career helping athletes, coaches, and parents navigate the hardest conversations in sports. If you have ever driven home from practice fuming about something the coach did (or didn't) do, this episode is for you. As we discuss her new and future books Dr. Jen Fry gives us two questions to ask ourselves BEFORE we send that email, add your thoughts to the team chat or corner the coach after practice — "Am I hijacking the conversation?" and "What am I really mad at?" Both hit hard. And you don't want to miss Jen's Game Ball — it's rich with praises for those that Sport Parent at their best.  Listen before your next parent-coach conversation, especially if you're already drafting the email in your head. Episode 31 is out now wherever you get your podcasts.
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  Episode 30 A HeatSense Heat Check 06.06.2026 36m

  This week's episode of Moms Running Point — Heat Check with HeatSense — opened my eyes to how much I didn't know. Melissa Fortenberry gives great sports parenting advice when it comes to heat illness in young athletes, and how doesn't always look like what we think.  In youth sports sometimes the most dangerous signs aren't recognized. Sometimes it's quiet confusion on the sideline that gets dismissed as a bad attitude or weakness because they aren't able to push through.  If you're seeing the signs, your child is already in the danger zone...what are we doing to prevent heat illness? MOMs Running Point talked with HeatSense, the company building wearable technology that tracks a young athlete's core temperature in real time and alerts parents and coaches and staff the second a kid is heading into danger — not after. If your kid plays a summer sport, a turf sport, or anything where they're outside in this heat — please listen to this one. And share it with the other moms on your team. Sometimes the most powerful thing we do as supportive sports moms is know more than or question the people running the practice. Episode Links: HeatSense: https://heatsense.com  TYPE IN THE CODE: RunningPoint26 AT CHECK OUT FOR $50 OFF!!! wet bulb index: https://www.weather.gov/tsa/wbgt
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  Episode 29: From Sideline Mom to Voluntold Videographer 02.05.2026 43m

  Sports MOMs CAN do it all.  Even Videography.  A fun listen as we dive into the all-too-real journey of becoming your childs or even the team videographer—whether you signed up for it or not. Returning guest Alexis Smith and I share our camera experience including tips and mishaps, the learning curve to recording, highering a professional vs doing it ourselves, and we're breaking down what it really looks like behind the camera, including that imposter syndrome that many sports moms experience.  Don't miss this episode's Technical Foul from Alexis Smith. It is diabolical-Adult Bullies :\ shouldn't ever be a thing. Episode Highlights: How sports moms end up as videographers (the "voluntold" moment we all know) The pros and cons of DIY filming vs hiring a professional Game-day strategies to capture footage that actually matters Imposter Syndrome-taking your spot beside the professionals Turning a sideline role into a potential side hustle     This episode is filled with Youth Sports Parenting Advice, How to film kids sports, Capturing sports highlights, sports video tips  
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  Episode 28: Athlete Conflict: With Dr. Jen Fry 04.04.2026 53m

  Conflict in sports is inevitable—but how we handle it makes all the difference. This week on MOMs Running Point, we're joined by Dr. Jen Fry from Jen Fry Talks to break down why conflict arises between athletes, parents, and teammates—and what we can do about it.  Dr. Jen Fry (she/her) is a Sports Geographer, tech founder, TEDx speaker, and sought-after speaker and educator. She owns JenFryTalks, an organizational change firm that sits at the intersection of conflict and culture. From sideline tensions to team dynamics, we dive into the root causes of conflict and how myths, expectations and lack of guidance can escalate situations quickly. Dr. Jen Fry shares powerful insights on how athletes can practice assertiveness, communicate effectively, and approach coaches in a way that builds understanding—not more conflict. Learn how to: Navigate tough conversations with confidence  why you should Support your athlete and not take over Turn conflict into growth opportunities This is a must-listen for every sports parent and athlete striving for healthier, stronger team environments and what every parent "says" when they sign their kid up for sports, its for personal development. Listen now and take the first step toward better communication and stronger relationships on and off the field. GET JEN'S BOOK HERE: https://jenfrytalks.com/book/ #MOMsRunningPoint #AthleteConflict #SportsParenting #TeamCulture #Leadership #CommunicationSkills  
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  Episode 27 Setting the Pace: Why Your 2026 Sports MOM Goals Matter!!! 07.02.2026 22m

  MOMs Running Point is back and Season 3 kicks off with Sports MOM Goals 2026. In this episode, host Tawa Dortch revisits the importance of setting goals—not just for our athletes, but for ourselves as sports moms. Instead of covering multiple goals, Tawa dives deep into one unexpected and challenging goal: training for her first full marathon. What began as a personal challenge quickly became a powerful lesson in discipline, consistency, recovery, coachability, and grit—modeled in real time for the athlete watching from the sidelines. Through honest stories, humor, and reflection, this episode reminds moms that our kids are watching how we handle hard things. Setting goals isn't about perfection—it's about showing up, pushing through, and leading by example. Because the sports mom journey isn't a sprint—it's a marathon. 
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  Episode 26: Reclaiming Moms Sideline Smile 16.08.2025 17m

  Somewhere between sign-ups, try outs, and endless tournaments, the fun we once felt at our kids' games can quietly slip away — and sometimes, without realizing it, we Sports MOMS help it happen. In this episode of MOMs Running Point, I share a personal "sideline face" wake-up call, the surprising difference I felt watching a friend's child play, and why that matters for our own kids' joy.  We'll break down three ways we might be unintentionally adding pressure — turning sports into a job, showing up with unspoken expectations, and making every game feel like the "only chance" for their future. Then, we'll flip it around with three practical ways to put the fun back in the game — for them and for us. Because when joy takes the lead, everybody wins.   Thanks for listening to MOMs Running Point. Connect with MOMs Running Point:  Follow MOMs Running Point on Facebook Follow MOM's Running Point on Instagram Click here to sign up for the MOM's Running Point Newsletter!  
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  Episode 25: Behind The Transfer Portal (Part 2) 02.08.2025 31m

  In Part 2 of our transfer portal conversation, we dig deeper into the current experience Lisa's daughter is facing as she re-enters the portal for her final year.  We talk about the process, the unknowns, and the emotional toll this journey takes on athletes and their families. Lisa shares practical advice for moms—how to support, when to step in, and how to protect your child's mental and emotional well-being in the middle of uncertainty, pressure, and change. Please see the link below for the Boot Check in Lisa talked about in the episode: https://jaefoundation.com/boot-check-certified-businesses/ Thanks for listening to MOMs Running Point. Connect with MOMs Running Point:  Follow MOMs Running Point on Facebook Follow MOM's Running Point on Instagram Click here to sign up for the MOM's Running Point Newsletter!   If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out. For immediate support, contact a crisis helpline near you.  Call or text 988.  
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  Episode 24: Behind The Transfer Portal 19.07.2025 35m

  When we hear "transfer portal," we often think of athletes chasing more playing time or a better scholarship—but that's not the full story. In Part 1, Lisa Hayes shares her family's firsthand experience navigating the portal after her daughter faced a toxic team environment and coaching challenges. From the emotional decision to leave, to the unexpected blessings that came from it, Lisa's honest, empowering perspective sheds light on why transferring isn't quitting—it's choosing what's best for your athlete. Lisa is the Admin for Baseball Moms and Softball Moms facebook pages and has created an amazing group of sports moms and experts who support, encourage and look our for one another!  She does a relentless amount of work to foster a positive atmosphere and goes above and beyond for this group from finding deals and discounts to directing those in need!  Well done Lisa!!!    
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  Episode 23 Siblings- Built in Teammates 05.07.2025 42m

  On this episode of MOMs Running Point, we're tackling one of the most powerful relationships in youth sports — siblings as teammates. I'm joined by the incredible Svonnie Dalcourt — powerhouse event planner and proud mom of two standout basketball players who both played Division 1 Basketball ( Houston University and University of Louisiana) and now play profressionally in Europe. We dive into the heart of the episode FAMILY: how her sons, Corey Davis Jr. and Jalen Dalcourt, built a bond that not only defied sibling rivalry but became a foundation for mutual growth, motivation, and lifelong connection. Svonnie shares her wisdom on raising boys who sharpen each other like iron — on and off the court. We unpack how personality differences can become strengths, how to encourage sibling unity without comparison, and what it looks like to support individual paths while celebrating shared goals. Whether you're raising one athlete or a house full of them, this conversation is packed with encouragement, truth, and tools to help you raise not just good athletes — but great teammates.
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  Episode 22: Half Time Adjustments: PAUSE. REFLECT. PIVOT 21.06.2025 44m

  Hey sports MOMs! In this deeply honest and soul-filling episode of MOMs Running Point, host Tawa Dortch sits down with Karen Johnson — mom of three, speaker, and author of "What Do I Want to Be When They Grow Up?" — to talk about something we all feel but rarely say out loud: the emotional and mental toll of being a Sports Mom and the Question Mark about our own FUTURE. From burnout and "ghost mom" moments to identity loss and comparison traps, this episode is a powerful reminder that it's not selfish to take care of yourself — it's essential. Karen and Tawa break down the invisible load so many moms carry and share practical tools for rediscovering yourself, regaining your joy, and starting small toward what you want to be when THEY grow up.  This episode will help you laugh, reflect, maybe give practical advice to refill your cup — and definitely walk away knowing you're not alone and that it's okay to want more for yourself. Plus, don't miss the debut of "The Final Whistle" segment and a giveaway for Karen's game-changing book! Perfect for: The mom running on fumes, the mom in the bleachers feeling lost, or the mom who just needs to hear: you matter too.  Don't miss the your chance to win Karen's Game Changing Book in our GIVEAWAY of Karen's game-changing book CLICK HERE TO ENTER!!!   TO ORDER YOUR BOOK AND FOLLOW KAREN JOHNSON: The 21st Century SAHM Author: What Do I Want to Be When They Grow Up? (And Other Thoughts from a 40-Something Mom) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/21stcenturysahm/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/21stcenturysahm/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@21stcenturysahm     Amazon Book Description: In What Do I Want to Be When They Grow Up? (And Other Thoughts from a 40-Something Mom), renowned parenting influencer Karen Johnson provides a fun, easy-to-understand, and inspiring guide for mothers currently experiencing an empty nest, or who see one on the horizon, and are looking to lead their best, most fulfilling lives and feel comfortable that they're not alone in their struggles. This book draws upon stories and experiences from Johnson and mothers around her, helping readers seek out new passions, including new career paths, to avoid feeling as if they are solely defined by motherhood.
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  Episode 21 Sports MOM 101 07.06.2025 30m

  Sports MOM 101 a CRASH COURSE for that MOM new to SPORTS. This first episode in our series, will shed light on why and when to put your kids in sports; guide you through how and where to find these programs and teams, and what's expected of you as a Sports MOM. I also share many tips just to know what's going on and top 5 mistakes to help you not make them.  I know stepping into this world people often describe as crazy, wild and intense can be nerve wracking. Don't worry I've put together a short enriching episode which I'm confident will give you the self-assurance to bravely ENTER the world of youth sports. Welcome new Sports MOM!!!! Thanks for listening to MOMs Running Point. Connect with MOMs Running Point:  Follow MOMs Running Point on Facebook Follow MOM's Running Point on Instagram Click here to sign up for the MOM's Running Point Newsletter! #MOMsrunningpoint #SportsMOMs #NewSportsMOMs #SportsAdvice #Sports101 #sportsmomslife
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  Episode 20: Winning With NUTRITION with Sports Dietetic Amy Goodson 17.05.2025 47m

  For all the Sports MOMs out there who feel overwhelmed by sports nutrition — whether you're unsure where to start, questioning if you're doing it right, or simply looking for guidance — this episode is for you.  I sat down with Amy Goodson, author of The Sports Nutrition Playbook, to unlock the ultimate cheat code for our athletes: nutrition. Amy is a registered dietitian with a powerhouse résumé—she's worked with the Dallas Cowboys, the TCU Athletics Department, and the renowned Ben Hogan Sports Medicine Center just to name drop a few. In our conversation, Amy breaks down the ideal food ratios and snack tips for top athletic performance, clears up misconceptions, and dives into some of the hottest topics in sports nutrition—like protein shakes, creatine, and hydration. Her insights aren't just game-changing for our young athletes; they're just as valuable for us Sports Moms looking to level up our own health and wellness.low). Amy Goodson & The Sports Nutrition Playbook offers athletes: Insurance based one-on-one sports nutrition services - We now take Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna, and United Healthcare for one-on-one nutrition counseling. The first step is to complete the Insurance Verification Form, then you will receive your insurance coverage, via text and email, within two business days. Athlete App - The Sports Nutrition Playbook Program App puts elite-level sports nutrition guidance and resources, as well as access to a sports dietitian, right at your fingertips. Available as a monthly subscription. Connect with The Sports Nutrition Playbook: The Sports Nutrition Playbook Website: https://www.thesportsnutritionplaybook.com/ The Sports Nutrition Playbook Podcast: Available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and Spotify -  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sports-nutrition-playbook/id1691169122?i=1000703853064 The Sports Nutrition Playbook YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheSportsNutritionPlaybook The Sports Nutrition Playbook Instagram: @thesportsnutritionplaybook  Amy Goodson's Instagram: @amyg.rd Top 3 Selling NSF Sport Certified recovery products on Amazon: (see NSF link below to do more product research) Vega Protein & Creatine https://amzn.to/43aFwdp Vega Sports Protein Powder Vanilla https://amzn.to/4kb37BM  Garden of Life Organic https://amzn.to/457usQS  Garden of Life Organic Protein Powder Vanilla https://amzn.to/3YJaXud Garden of Life Organic Protein Powder Chocolate: https://amzn.to/4mg9OUW Genuine Muscle Milk https://amzn.to/4kjL0d0  Muscle Milk Protein Shake Sugar Free Chocolate https://amzn.to/45mMJtD  Muscle Milk 100% Whey Protien Powder Chocolate https://amzn.to/4j7yQ5Z  Muscle Milk 100% Whey Protien Powder Vanilla https://amzn.to/3S0aDn1  NSF Certified Sport  
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  Episode 19: The Coach's Wife Life 03.05.2025 42m

  In this heartfelt and honest episode of MOMs Running Point, host Tawa Dortch welcomes special guest Dela Criss—mom, podcaster, Executive Director of Ministries, and proud coach's wife—for a deep dive into the  identity outside of being "the coach's wife," to creating harmony at home amid sports chaos, Dela's wisdom is a must-hear for anyone navigating the youth sports world. Don't miss this empowering, real talk episode filled with laughter, lessons, and love—from the sidelines and beyonoften-overlooked role of the woman beside the whistle. From juggling chaotic schedules and managing family time, to supporting a spouse under pressure, Dela shares her lived experience with grace and humor. This conversation explores the emotional highs and lows of wins, losses, and the expectations placed on coaches—and how those pressures ripple through their families. Dela offers Sports Parenting Advice from the unique perspective of someone who sees the coach not just as a leader, but as a husband and father. Listeners will gain valuable Tips and Strategy for Parents of Athletes—especially insight into what really happens behind the scenes of youth sports. Whether you're a coach's wife yourself or just want to be a good supporter of your child's team, this episode sheds light on how understanding the personal side of coaching can lead to better parent-coach relationships. From maintaining herd. Dela's Socials: https://www.youtube.com/c/DelaCriss  https://www.instagram.com/dela_criss/ https://www.facebook.com/crisscrosslove/ https://www.delacriss.com/        
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  Episode 18 More Than an Injury Part 2 15.04.2025 27m

  In this episode of MOMs Running Point, Rene and I continue our exploration on the challenges of sports parenting, from managing anxiety and competition to building strong support systems. We discuss the impact of parental expectations, the importance of community, and how connection helps parents be better for their athlete. Plus, we offer advice for handling injuries and emotional setbacks with resilience. Tune in for insights on guiding your athlete through the highs and lows of sports! Links to Articles: https://ilovetowatchyouplay.com/2025/01/17/why-does-it-have-to-be-so-lonely-the-silent-competition-of-sports-parenting/ https://www.youth.inc/  Thanks for listening to MOMs Running Point.   Connect with MOMs Running Point:  Follow MOMs Running Point on Facebook Follow MOM's Running Point on Instagram Click here to sign up for the MOM's Running Point Email & Newsletter!
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  Episode 17 More Than An Injury Part 1 30.03.2025 41m

  More Than an Injury, delves into the often overlooked mental and emotional aspects of recovering from an injury. Rene Pistorius highlights with me how the recovery journey is filled with frustration, stress, and unpredictable ups and downs. The episode emphasizes the invisible side of injury — the mental toll it takes, including anxiety, stress, and fear that can accompany physical recovery. Additionally, it touches on the guilt parents, particularly mothers, might feel when their child is injured and the emotional pain of watching them struggle (part 2 dives deeper into the emotions of parenting through injury).  Throughout the discussion, advice is shared on the importance of having a strong support system, maintaining communication and a social circle.  All of which can make all the difference in navigating both the physical and emotional challenges of recovery.     Thanks for listening to MOMs Running Point. Connect with MOMs Running Point:  Follow MOMs Running Point on Facebook Follow MOM's Running Point on Instagram Click here to sign up for the MOM's Running Point Newsletter!  
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  Episode 16 The Cost of Youth Sports 15.03.2025 43m

  In today's episode, Alexis Smith and I dive into a growing concern for families across the country – the rising cost of youth sports. From regular fees to unexpected expenses, we explore how costs are adding up so there are no surprises as you keep your athletes engaged in sports. We'll share parenting advice & creative tips for cutting costs and discuss the value of investing in your child's athletic development. While the pay-to-play model can be daunting, we'll also highlight the benefits that come with investing in your child's athletic journey. Tune in to find out the real costs to navigate the world of youth sports, because its always better to be informed!   Thanks for listening to MOMs Running Point. Connect with MOMs Running Point:  Follow MOMs Running Point on Facebook Follow MOM's Running Point on Instagram Click here to sign up for the MOM's Running Point Newsletter!     Episode Links Cost to play Chart: https://www.playgroundequipment.com/the-average-cost-of-each-childrens-sport/    Since recording this I found the study results:  https://www.aspeninstitute.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/FINAL-Utah-State-Parent-Survey-Report-1.pdf   Pay to play Article:  Youth sports have become an expensive, stressful burden on families - Las Vegas Weekly         
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  Episode 15: Clearing the Air on Playing Time! 20.02.2025 49m

  MOMs today's episode is a frequently discussed topic, PLAYING TIME.  Many of us have sat and watched our child struggle with the amount of time played in the game; and tried to help them navigate the emotions that accompany.  Our guest for this episode shares her expertise as a former High School Coach and Assistant Principal of Arlington High School; and her uniquely qualified perspective as a former College Basketball Player and Sports MOM of a Division 1 Volleyball Player.  In this episode we get into the minds of the coaches, and explains the HOW MUCH… behind playing time.  We break down expectations per athletic level, and how to talk to coaches about playing time.  Last but not least Tasha gets honest and shares advice to Sports MOMs on what their role should be during what can be a growing frustration.   Thanks for listening to MOMs Running Point. Connect with MOMs Running Point:  Follow MOMs Running Point on Facebook Follow MOM's Running Point on Instagram Click here to sign up for the MOM's Running Point Newsletter! Episode Links: Band performance: https://www.tiktok.com/@grantminor/video/6767407849703279877 Elieen Flood O'Connor Article, https://grownandflown.com/teen-on-bench-during-games/
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  Episode 14 Sports MOM Goals 08.02.2025 23m

  The new year brings about a refresh and resolutions.  Moms did you set goals for 2025, how about a Sports MOM Goal?  Don't know that that is?  Listen in as I share my seasonal Sports Mom Assist.  I think giving our goals a name really helps us focus and be consistent.  Special messages from past guests, see if they set Sports Mom goals or not!!! Thanks for listening to MOMs Running Point. Connect with MOMs Running Point:  Follow MOMs Running Point on Facebook Follow MOM's Running Point on Instagram Click here to sign up for the MOM's Running Point Newsletter!
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  Episode 13 Find The RIGHT Team! 20.11.2024 37m

  The challenge to Find The RIGHT Team for your athlete is not an easy feat.  In this episode we discuss when it's time to go and the reasons to change teams.  My guest host, Sally Baskin and I also share our top criteria we use to select a team, and how we actually find different program options.   The search can take some time and effort but the work put in on the front end is much easier to overcome then the frustration and harm enduring a busy season can cause.   Is it time to do an assessment if your athlete is on the right team and take steps to find it?  If so this episode is for you!!! Thanks for listening to MOMs Running Point. Connect with MOMs Running Point:  Follow MOMs Running Point on Facebook Follow MOM's Running Point on Instagram Click here to sign up for the MOM's Running Point Newsletter!