The Pure Athlete Podcast

Эпизоды

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  PA Replay: GOING ALL IN....What You Need To Know 14.07.2026 52мин

  Youth and high school sports should always be fun. But what if a young athlete has big goals? What if they dream of making the varsity team, earning a college scholarship, or even competing professionally?Many families begin pursuing those dreams at a young age—and we think that's great. But that journey also comes with challenges. Having a healthy roadmap can help your young athlete maximize their potential while still enjoying the process and becoming the best version of themselves on the field, court, pool, or track.We're revisiting this episode because the lessons, advice, and insights are just as relevant today as when it first aired.
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  PA Replay: Bobby Witt Jr. — From MLB Son to MLB Star 30.06.2026 42мин

  In 2024, Bobby finished as the runner-up for the American League MVP Award after delivering an incredible season at the plate while also winning his first Gold Glove at shortstop in just his third year in the majors.Not long ago, though, Bobby was playing travel and high school baseball in Colleyville, Texas. Despite being the son of former MLB pitcher Bobby Witt Sr., he took a different path than many of today's top prospects. He never took a private hitting lesson until after high school. Rather than chasing launch angles and home runs (though he hit plenty of those), Bobby focused on making hard contact to all fields, limiting strikeouts, and becoming the most complete player he could be.Bobby shares his approach to hitting, the relentless work ethic that helped him become a Gold Glove-winning shortstop, the lessons his parents taught him about character and humility, and so much more.We're bringing back this replay of our conversation with Bobby Witt Jr.—one that's still packed with valuable and relevant insights for players, parents, and coaches.
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  177. What's Broken in American Youth Soccer—and How We Fix It with U.S. Soccer Legend Carlos Bocanegra 24.06.2026 57мин

  In this episode, Jeff, Britt, and Brad sit down with U.S. Soccer legend and former US World Cup Captain Carlos Bocanegra to share his story from his remarkable journey—from playing multiple sports as a kid in Southern California, to starring at UCLA Bruins, becoming MLS Rookie of the Year, competing in two FIFA World Cups, and playing in some of the world’s top leagues, including the English Premier League. He also reflects on the lessons he learned along the way and why playing multiple sports helped shape his athletic career.The conversation then shifts to youth sports, where Carlos offers his passionate assessment of the current youth soccer landscape in America. He discusses the challenges facing youth development, the importance of positive coaching environments, why fundamentals matter more than winning at young ages, and what parents should look for when choosing a sports program for their children.Whether you're a soccer fan, a parent navigating youth sports, or simply someone who loves hearing the stories behind elite athletes, this episode delivers valuable insights on development, resilience, leadership, and helping kids fall in love with sports the right way.Topics Covered:The impact and excitement of the 2026 World CupCarlos Bocanegra’s path from youth athlete to World Cup captainLife in MLS and the English Premier LeagueThe value of multi-sport participationWhy technical skill development mattersChallenges in youth soccer todayHow parents can identify healthy sports environmentsBalancing development and winning in youth sportsBuilding a better future for young athletesPlus, Carlos shares why he believes improving the youth sports culture is one of the most important opportunities facing American soccer today.
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  PA Replay: Former MLS Star & USMNT Player Taylor Twellman 16.06.2026 50мин

  Former MLS star and current MLS TV Analyst Taylor Twellman shares his youth sports story as a multi-sport athlete who played both baseball and soccer in college before going all-in on soccer. Taylor had a prolific soccer career as a 2x Golden Boot winner and MLS MVP. He shares some strong opinions about American soccer, our current youth sports cullture, advice for parents, and advice for coaches.
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  176. I9 Sports' Madison Gates: How to Give Kids a Positive Early Sports Experience 09.06.2026 34мин

  In this episode of The Pure Athlete Podcast, hosts Britt and Brad sit down with Madison Gates, VP of Marketing at i9 Sports and former University of Michigan soccer standout, D1 player, and coach.They explore one of the biggest challenges parents face today: how to introduce young kids to organized sports in a positive, healthy way. With youth sports shifting toward earlier specialization, intense travel teams, and skyrocketing pressure, many families feel overwhelmed and worried their kids will fall behind or burn out.Madison shares her personal journey—from multi-sport youth athlete to college star—and discusses the real issues plaguing youth sports: parental “keeping up with the Joneses,” early burnout, overuse injuries, and the loss of simple childhood fun. She explains how i9 Sports offers a refreshing, contrarian approach: fun-first, multi-sport leagues for ages 3–14, with just one practice and game per week, age-appropriate coaching, and a strong emphasis on building confidence, character, and a sense of belonging.The conversation dives deep into i9’s Games for Girls campaign, which aims to get 500,000 girls playing annually by 2030. They discuss survey insights on what girls and parents value most (spoiler: winning is at the bottom), the importance of positive coaching, girls-only programming, and strategies to keep girls in sports through the critical middle school years when dropout rates spike.Whether you’re a parent trying to make the right first sports decision, concerned about burnout, or looking for a more balanced youth sports experience, this episode delivers practical wisdom, encouragement, and actionable advice.Tune in for an honest, hopeful conversation that puts kids first.Listen now and visit i9sports.com to find a local program near you.
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  175. David Pollack: How My Perspective Changed Through My Kids' Sports Journey 02.06.2026 46мин

  In this powerful return episode of The Pure Athlete Podcast, we welcome back former CFB Hall of Fame and the host of the popular podcast See Ball. Get Ball, David Pollack, three and a half years after his first appearance.Now raising a 17-year-old son who just committed to Clemson football and a 16-year-old daughter who’s a standout basketball player, David delivers raw, honest, and deeply practical insight into how sports parenting evolves as kids move through high school. From shifting roles — moving from “commander” to “coach” to eventually “friend” — to learning how to give your children true ownership of their journey, David explores the challenges, failures, and wins that come with raising athletes.He also opens up about the realities of the modern recruiting process in a transactional, NIL-influenced world, how to support your child without taking over, and why surrounding them with the right people and culture matters more than ever. Finally, David shares candidly about his wife Lindsay’s major brain surgery and ongoing battle with cancer, how their family has grown stronger through adversity, and the powerful lessons in resilience, faith, and perspective they’ve gained.Listeners will hear David’s signature intensity as he discusses:Why parenting gets harder (but more meaningful) as kids gain independenceThe importance of letting kids own their journey — even when it’s uncomfortableHow to balance support with space in recruiting and athleticsBuilding family values that outlast sportsThe power of praying for “hard” things and watching your kids rise through themWhat coaches and parents need to prioritize for long-term success and character developmentFilled with humor, vulnerability, and actionable wisdom, this conversation is a must-listen for any parent, coach, or young athlete navigating the beautiful chaos of youth sports.Tune in now and be reminded that the goal isn’t perfection — it’s growth, faith, and enjoying the journey together.Also, check out David's new book...Every Day Counts: Start Where You Are. Use What You Have. Do What You Can.
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  174. Reclassifying - The Controversial Extra Year in Youth Sports 27.05.2026 26мин

  In this candid episode, Jeff, Britt, and Brad tackle one of the hottest and most controversial topics in youth sports today: reclassification — holding kids back a grade, primarily for athletic advantages.The guys break down:What reclassification really means and how it’s shifting from a rare academic decision to a common sports strategyThe potential benefits for late bloomers and physical developmentThe serious downsides — social and emotional impacts, disrupted friendships, academic considerations, and long-term opportunity costsWhy some high school programs quietly encourage it and how club/travel teams have adapted with grad-year rulesReal talk on whether that extra year actually leads to D1 scholarships or just creates unfair advantagesWith honesty and zero judgment, the hosts share personal stories, coach and athletic director perspectives, and question whether we’re putting athletics above the holistic development of our kids. They also explore the broader trend of older athletes in high school and college sports.This is a must-listen for parents, coaches, and anyone involved in youth sports. The conversation is nuanced, thought-provoking, and far from black and white.What do you think? Have you reclassified your child? Did it work out — or do you regret it? Drop your experiences in the comments or send us a message. We want to hear the good, the bad, and the ugly.Listen now and join the conversation.
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  173. The State of Youth Sports with Aspen Institute's Project Play Director Tom Farrey 19.05.2026 39мин

  In this episode of The Pure Athlete Podcast, we sit down with Tom Farrey, Executive Director of the Aspen Institute’s Project Play and a longtime voice in youth sports. With decades of experience and groundbreaking research, Tom shares the latest data on participation trends, the impact of commercialization, early specialization, and the growing influence of NIL at younger ages.Discover powerful lessons from Norway’s remarkably successful youth sports model, why joy and love of the game matter more than wins at young ages, the importance of multi-sport play, and practical ways communities can drive real change through the “power of the permit.”Whether you’re a parent, coach, or youth sports leader, this conversation delivers honest insights, hope, and actionable ideas for building healthier, more inclusive youth sports environments.Tune in for a big-picture look at where youth sports stands today — and where it’s headed.#YouthSports #ProjectPlay #ParentingInSports #AspenInstitute
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  172. Will Summer Fun Set My Kid Back in Sports? ASK US ANYTHING #1 15.05.2026 35мин

  Jeff, Brad, and Britt tackle real parent questions we've received in our first installment of a practical, no-nonsense Q&A series we call ASK US ANYTHING. From travel ball decisions to tackle football, handling losses, tough coaches, and creating balance in a year-round sports culture, the guys share honest perspectives and insights from their own experiences as parents and coaches.Key topics include:Should a dominant 12U baseball player join elite national travel teams that “just show up” for tournaments, or stay local and play with friends?When is the right age to start tackle football? (Flag vs. full contact, teaching proper tackling technique, and knowing your child)Helping a 10-year-old who cries after every soccer lossHow to handle a bad umpire who tells your team to “throw in the towel”Should you let your kid quit a sport when it gets hard?Tough coaching vs. toxic coaching — where’s the line?How we manage the tension of wanting to create great summer experiences like summer camp, vacations, and free time with the desire to continue growth in your sport.The episode closes with a great conversation with Mike Murillo of Academy Camps — a unique sports-specific sleepaway camp that combines high-level coaching and training in a variety of sports with traditional camp fun (no phones, color wars, electives, ropes course, and more). Academy Camps is a smart hybrid option for families who want both athletic development and real summer memories.Whether you’re navigating tryouts, burnout, playing time, or just trying to do youth sports the right way, this episode is packed with relatable advice you can actually use.https://academycamps.com
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  171. Catie Francoeur: Behind the Scenes With A Sports Mom 12.05.2026 1ч 3мин

  This week on The Pure Athlete Podcast, we celebrate moms with a special guest — sports mom, wife, and chaos coordinator extraordinaire, Catie Francoeur.Catie joins Jeff, Britt, and Brad for an honest, funny, and heartfelt conversation about raising four kids in the middle of the youth sports whirlwind. From travel softball and lacrosse to forgotten cleats, late-night flights, emotional car rides, and “recalibrating” family priorities, this episode pulls back the curtain on what life really looks like for a modern sports family. Both moms and dads will enjoy and recognize many of the topics discussed, such as:The pressure today’s kids and parents feel in youth sportsBalancing competition, faith, marriage, and family lifeHelping kids navigate anxiety, confidence, and identitySupporting children who love different sports — or no sport at allWhy effort and character matter more than stats and trophiesThe behind-the-scenes role moms play in keeping everything togetherAlong the way, Catie shares wisdom, vulnerability, and plenty of laughs — including stories about travel ball chaos, parenting failures, emotional postgame moments, and even Jeff getting kicked out of a flag football game.Whether you’re a sports mom, sports dad, coach, or parent trying to survive the busy youth sports years, this episode is packed with relatable stories, encouragement, and perspective.Because at the end of the day, the goal isn’t perfect kids or perfect parents — it’s raising healthy, resilient kids who know they’re loved no matter the scoreboard.
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  170. UGA AD Josh Brooks: What's Going On In College Sports…Part 2 05.05.2026 45мин

  What does the future of college sports really look like—and how will it impact youth and high school athletes?In Part 2 of this topic, we sit down with Josh Brooks, Athletic Director at the University of Georgia, to break down the rapidly changing landscape of college athletics—from NIL and the transfer portal to the realities of recruiting, roster building, and long-term athlete development.Josh shares his journey from college equipment manager under Nick Saban and Jimbo Fisher to leading one of the top athletic programs in the country. But beyond the wins and championships, this conversation dives deep into what truly matters—both as a leader and as a sports dad.We cover:Why youth sports should prioritize development over winningThe impact of NIL and the transfer portal on college athleticsWhat parents and athletes need to understand about recruiting todayThe importance of fit: “Go where you’re celebrated, not tolerated”How track and other individual sports teach real growth and accountabilityThe shrinking opportunities in non-revenue sports—and what it means for the futureWhy identity shouldn’t be tied to your child’s sportPractical advice for athletes chasing college opportunities (at any level)Josh also shares candid thoughts on parenting in youth sports, the pressure culture surrounding kids today, and how to keep sports fun while still pursuing excellence.Whether you're raising a young athlete, coaching, or navigating the path to college sports, this episode offers a grounded, honest perspective from someone at the highest level of the game.
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  169. Clemson AD Graham Neff: What's Going On In College Sports...Part 1 28.04.2026 58мин

  In Part 1 of this 2-part series, the guys sit down with Clemson Athletic Director Graham Neff for a candid, behind-the-scenes look at the rapidly changing world of college sports.From NIL and the transfer portal to scholarships and recruiting, Graham breaks down what’s really happening—and what it means for today’s athletes. He shares his personal journey into college athletics, offers practical advice for students who want to work in sports, and explains why opportunities are actually expanding across all levels and sports.The conversation also tackles big questions around player loyalty, the business of college athletics, and where things are headed next. Whether you're a parent, athlete, or fan trying to make sense of it all, this episode delivers clarity, perspective, and real insight from someone in the middle of it.Key themes:The reality of NIL, revenue sharing, and recruiting todayHow student-athletes can still find opportunity at every levelWhy college sports are becoming both more complex—and more valuableAdvice for athletes navigating the modern landscapeA must-listen for anyone serious about understanding the future of college athletics.
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  168. How Great Pitchers Are Made: Inside the Mind of Pitching Ninja Rob Friedman 21.04.2026 36мин

  What does it really take to develop an elite pitcher—and are we getting it wrong with today’s youth athletes?In this episode, we sit down with Rob Friedman—better known as the creator of Pitching Ninja—to break down the evolution of pitching, the science behind velocity, and the biggest mistakes parents and coaches make with young players.From coaching his own son to a college career at Georgia Tech baseball to building one of the most trusted platforms in baseball, Rob shares insights that every parent, coach, and player needs to hear.We dive into:Why velocity is dominating the game—and the risks that come with itThe truth about early specialization and “pitcher-only” kidsHow to choose the right pitching coach (and red flags to avoid)When kids should start tracking velocity and throwing breaking pitchesThe mindset and habits that separate good pitchers from great onesRob also gives practical advice for parents navigating today’s high-pressure youth sports environment, including pitch counts, injury prevention, and how to keep the game fun while still pushing for growth.Whether your child is just starting out or chasing the next level, this episode is packed with real-world wisdom to help you develop athletes the right way.Resources Mentioned:Unhittable by Rob Friedman
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  167. Why “Never Push Your Kid” Isn’t Great Advice for Sports Parents 07.04.2026 51мин

  In this episode of The Pure Athlete Podcast, we dive into one of the most challenging and emotional questions parents and coaches face: how hard should you push your kids in sports? From early development through the high school years, we unpack what “pushing” really means—and where the line exists between healthy accountability and harmful pressure.Through honest stories and personal experiences, we explore the tension between wanting the best for your kids and knowing when to step back. We talk about effort vs. results, preparation vs. performance, and why pushing for attitude, consistency, and work ethic matters far more than stats or outcomes. You’ll hear real-life examples of getting it right—and getting it wrong—and how those moments shape not just athletes, but young adults.We also break down how pushing should evolve as kids grow, why middle school years are so critical, and how parents can shift from hands-on guidance to helping their athletes take ownership. Whether you’re a parent in the thick of it or a coach trying to lead the right way, this episode will challenge your perspective and give you a clearer framework for developing resilient, motivated athletes—without sacrificing the relationship that matters most.
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  166. The Intersection of Faith and Youth Sports for Families 31.03.2026 55мин

  In this episode of The Pure Athlete Podcast, the guys take an honest and thoughtful look at how faith intersects with youth sports—and the challenges parents and coaches face in keeping priorities aligned.They dive into the growing visibility of faith in sports, discussing both the opportunities and concerns that come with that. From there, the conversation gets personal—exploring how faith shapes their own identities as parents, coaches, and competitors, and sharing authentically where they still fall short.This episode tackles real questions parents wrestle with every day:How do you keep sports from becoming your child’s identity?What does it actually mean to “play for something bigger”?How should faith show up in wins, losses, and adversity?How do you handle pressure, performance, and even Sunday sports conflicts?With candid stories and practical perspective, the guys emphasize a powerful theme: sports are a tool—not the foundation. The goal isn’t just to raise better athletes, but to raise grounded, resilient young people whose identity goes far beyond the scoreboard.If you’re a sports parent trying to navigate faith, competition, and culture, this episode offers clarity, encouragement, and a much-needed reset on what really matters.
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  165. NBC Sports' Lindsay Czarniak: From Sport Anchor to Sports Mom 24.03.2026 54мин

  What’s it really like to cover the Olympics? How do elite athletes—and parents—handle pressure, disappointment, and big life moments? In this episode of The Pure Athlete Podcast, we sit down with Emmy-winning sports broadcaster Lindsay Czarniak, host of Things No One Tells You and longtime ESPN, Fox, and NBC sports reporter/anchor, to dive into her experiences from the Olympic desk, the power of mindset, and the human side of sports.Lindsay shares:Her inside look at the 2026 Winter Olympics, working alongside legendary athletes and analysts.The emotional highs and lows of pressure-filled competition—on ice, in hockey rinks, and on the field.Real talk about parenting young athletes: navigating team selections, setbacks, and helping kids build confidence.Stories that prove even top-tier sports parents sometimes lose their cool… and what they learn from it.Whether you’re a coach, parent, or athlete, this episode offers a rare glimpse at the triumphs, failures, and lessons that shape sports at every level. Get ready for laughter, emotion, and insight from someone who’s seen it all—on TV, in the Olympics, and at home.Tune in and discover why the journey, not just the scoreboard, defines a true athlete.
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  164. 7-Yr NFL LB Kaden Elliss: Faith, Family, & Football 17.03.2026 55мин

  On this episode of The Pure Athlete Podcast, the guys sit down with Kaden Elliss of the Atlanta Falcons (signed with New Orleans Saints a week after this recording) for a powerful conversation that goes far beyond football.Kaden shares his incredible journey—from being overlooked in recruiting and chasing a dream at quarterback, to carving out a career in the NFL through grit, faith, and relentless belief. But what truly defines his story is family. Growing up in a household of 12, with seven adopted siblings, Kaden opens up about how adoption shaped his identity, his values, and his purpose.Brought to you by Promise 686 (promise686.org), an organization dedicated to placing vulnerable children into safe, loving homes, this episode dives deep into:The life-changing impact of adoption and what “family” really meansNavigating doubt, setbacks, and the recruiting processWhy multi-sport athletes have an edge (and why specialization can hurt development)Faith under pressure—and representing your beliefs in the heat of competitionLessons from the NFL on leadership, discipline, and consistencyThis is more than a football story—it’s a conversation about purpose, perspective, and the people who shape who we become.
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  163. Dr. John Delony: Family Balance & Youth Sports: PART 2 10.03.2026 31мин

  In Part 2 of our conversation with Dr. John Delony, we go deeper into the realities of youth sports culture and what it means for families today. From the pressures of travel sports to the rising anxiety among young athletes, Dr. Delony offers honest and thought-provoking insight for parents trying to do the right thing.We discuss the difference between true shared experiences and the pressure that can come with elite youth sports. Dr. Delony also shares why kids often absorb the stress of the adults around them, how sports can either help or harm a child’s mental health, and why loving the game matters more than mastering it at a young age.The conversation also touches on issues facing today’s teenagers—including social media, sports gambling, and the growing pressures of modern culture—and what parents can do to guide their kids through it all.If you're a parent navigating youth sports, this episode offers practical wisdom about raising resilient kids, keeping perspective, and making sure the game stays healthy for the whole family.
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  162. Dr. John Delony: Family Balance & Youth Sports: PART 1 03.03.2026 36мин

  Youth sports can build resilience, character, teamwork, and lifelong confidence.But they can also quietly become something else.In Part 1 of this powerful conversation, Dr. John Delony — bestselling author, two-time PhD, and host of The John Delony Show — joins the Pure Athlete team to unpack the hidden emotional weight many kids are carrying in today’s sports culture.From travel ball schedules that dominate family life to parents unknowingly tying their self-worth to their child’s performance, Dr. Delony challenges us to ask a deeper question:Are our kids playing for themselves… or for us?This episode dives into:Why youth sports still have incredible valueThe danger of kids feeling responsible for regulating their parents’ emotionsHow to know if you’ve crossed the line from supportive to over-investedWhy family dinners, marriage health, and shared values must come before the sports calendarThe “Uncle Rico” effect and living vicariously through your kidsWhy adult loneliness may be fueling the travel sports explosionDr. Delony doesn’t attack sports — he loves them. He was an athlete. His kids play today. But he offers a clear warning: Don’t make your child carry the emotional weight of your identity.If you’re a sports parent, coach, or leader who wants to build healthy families — not just successful athletes — this conversation is essential listening.Part 2 drops next week.
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  PA Replay: A Passion for Volleyball with Kerri Walsh Jennings 27.02.2026 39мин

  3x Gold Medalist Kerri Walsh Jennings joined the guys, sharing her continued passion for volleyball (beach and indoor), and for the growth of women's sports. Kerri shares how her love for volleyball began at an early age, in the midst of playing multiple sports and loving the "free play" aspect of childhood sports that was strongly encouraged by her parents. She also shares her experiences and development as a club and high school player who was eventually recruited to play Indoor at Stanford, where she became a 4x All American, NCAA Player of the Year, and NCAA Champion. Kerri also shares what drew her from Indoor to Beach, discusses her thoughts on what makes a great teammate, shares her advice on playing both club AND school volleyball, and also talks about her 1440 organization. In addition, as a mom of three young athletes, Kerri discusses her approach to sports parenting.