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• Be Valiant Rewind: "No One Has Youth Sports Figured Out" | Steve Borelli, USA Today 17.06.2026 1sa 4dk

  In this Be Valiant Rewind episode, Todd Merkow sits down with Steve Borelli, longtime USA Today journalist, youth sports columnist, coach, and sports dad, for one of the most insightful conversations we've had about the realities of raising young athletes. Drawing from years of experience on the sidelines and hundreds of conversations with parents, coaches, and athletes, Steve shares practical wisdom on everything from travel sports culture and early specialization to recruiting, pressure, parent behavior, and what kids actually need from us. Why do so many parents feel trapped in unhealthy sports environments? What are the warning signs that a team or club may not be the right fit? Do college coaches really prefer multi-sport athletes? And how can parents support their children without becoming part of the pressure? Steve also discusses lessons from his interviews with former MLB All-Star Todd Frazier, golf legend Annika Sorenstam, and other sports figures who have navigated youth sports as parents themselves. Key topics include: • The red flags parents should watch for in youth sports programs • Why "you're not getting scouted at 12" is a message every parent needs to hear • The importance of multi-sport participation and athlete development • The 24-hour rule and the car ride home after games • What college coaches are really looking for • Travel sports, recruiting, and maintaining perspective • Why fun in sports is more important—and more complex—than most people realize Whether you're just starting your family's youth sports journey or are deep in the travel sports world, this conversation offers valuable perspective, practical advice, and reassurance that you're not alone. Because at the end of the day, great sports parenting isn't about having all the answers—it's about learning, growing, and making decisions that are in the best interest of your child. Host: Todd Merkow - CEO & Founder, Valiant Sports Society Powered by Valiant Sports SocietyBe Valiant.  Play Fearless. www.PlayFearless.org Valiant Sports Society is a non-profit organization as described in section 501(c)(3) of the IRC. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not medical or mental health advice. Always consult a qualified professional for guidance related to your or your child's health. Never delay seeking help because of something you heard on this show.   © 2026 Valiant Sports Society. All rights reserved.
• Be Valiant Rewind: Mike Strati | Creating a Healthy Sports Culture for Your Child 10.06.2026 1sa 4dk

  In this special "rewind" of Be Valiant, host Todd Merkow sits down with longtime friend, former collegiate and national team soccer player, coach, consultant, and sports parent Mike Strati for one of the most insightful conversations we've had about youth sports culture. Drawing from his experiences as an athlete, coach, and father of three, Mike shares a refreshingly honest perspective on what really matters in youth sports. From the importance of multi-sport participation and finding the right coach, to navigating toxic environments, managing expectations, and helping kids develop a lifelong love of sports, this episode is packed with practical advice for parents at every stage of the journey. You'll hear why Mike believes: • Kids should play as many sports as possible for as long as possible • Parents need to be intentional about choosing coaches and teams • The car ride home matters more than most parents realize • Early specialization often does more harm than good • Youth sports should prepare kids for life—not just college athletics Most importantly, Mike reminds us that youth sports are ultimately about helping our children grow, learn, build relationships, and discover who they are. Whether you're just beginning your family's sports journey or you're deep in the competitive youth sports world, this conversation offers timeless lessons that every sports parent should hear. Watch the full video episode and subscribe on our YouTube channel, and visit PlayFearless.org to learn more about Valiant Sports Society's mission to help parents safeguard the mental and physical well-being of youth athletes. Host: Todd Merkow - CEO & Founder, Valiant Sports Society Powered by Valiant Sports Society Be Valiant.  Play Fearless. www.PlayFearless.org Valiant Sports Society is a non-profit organization as described in section 501(c)(3) of the IRC. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not medical or mental health advice. Always consult a qualified professional for guidance related to your or your child's health. Never delay seeking help because of something you heard on this show.   © 2026 Valiant Sports Society. All rights reserved.
• Be Valiant Rewind: Mark Hilinski |Athlete Mental Health, Suicide Prevention & the Conversations That Can Save Lives 03.06.2026 1sa 7dk

  Some conversations are too important to be heard only once. This week, we're revisiting one of the most impactful episodes of Be Valiant with Mark Hilinski, co-founder of Hilinski's Hope and father of former Washington State quarterback Tyler Hilinski. After losing Tyler to suicide in 2018, Mark and his wife Kim turned unimaginable grief into a national movement dedicated to improving mental health awareness, education, and support for student-athletes. Through Hilinski's Hope, they have reached hundreds of college campuses and helped spark critical conversations about mental health in sports. In this powerful discussion, Mark shares the story of Tyler's life, the warning signs that weren't obvious, the lessons learned as a sports parent, and what families, coaches, and athletes can do to create environments where asking for help is not only accepted—but encouraged. We also explore athlete identity, the pressures of competitive sports, the importance of multi-sport participation, the role parents play in supporting their children's emotional well-being, and why mental health conversations should begin long before a crisis occurs. Whether you're a parent, coach, athlete, or simply someone who cares about the well-being of young people, this is a conversation that deserves your attention. Key takeaway: "Let's not let the crisis be the first time we talk about it." Learn more about Hilinski's Hope at Hilinskishope.org.   Host: Todd Merkow - CEO & Founder, Valiant Sports Society Powered by Valiant Sports Society Be Valiant.  Play Fearless. PlayFearless.org Valiant Sports Society is a non-profit organization as described in section 501(c)(3) of the IRC. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not medical or mental health advice. Always consult a qualified professional for guidance related to your or your child's health. Never delay seeking help because of something you heard on this show. © 2026 Valiant Sports Society. All rights reserved.
• Be Valiant Rewind: Charli Turner Thorne | Hall of Fame College Basketball Coach on Mental Health, Toughness & Youth Sports Culture 27.05.2026 1sa 9dk

  Former Arizona State women's basketball coach and Hall of Famer Charli Turner Thorne joins Valiant Sports Society CEO Todd Merkow for one of the most important conversations Be Valiant has had about youth sports, mental health, coaching culture, and parenting. Over a 25-year coaching career at ASU, Charli built nationally respected programs centered not just on performance, but on mental wellness, emotional resilience, leadership, and athlete development. In this Mental Health Awareness Month re release, she shares what parents, coaches, and athletes urgently need to understand about today's sports environment. Topics include: The growing mental health challenges facing young athletes Why injuries can trigger anxiety, depression, and identity loss The difference between healthy toughness and harmful pressure What parents should (and shouldn't) say after games How coaches impact athlete mental health far beyond the scoreboard Why multi-sport athletes are often healthier mentally and physically The danger of "fear of other people's opinions" in today's youth sports culture Why parents should ask colleges about mental health support during recruiting The importance of culture, joy, balance, and purpose in sports Charli also opens up about her own experiences as a sports parent, the evolution of her coaching philosophy, and why she believes the best coaches develop the whole person — not just the athlete. This episode is a powerful reminder that youth sports should build confidence, resilience, connection, and joy — not fear, burnout, or emotional harm. Guest:  Charli Turner Thorne - Former Ariozna State University Women's Basketball Coach Host: Todd Merkow - CEO & Founder, Valiant Sports Society Powered by Valiant Sports Society Be Valiant.  Play Fearless. www.PlayFearless.org Valiant Sports Society is a non-profit organization as described in section 501(c)(3) of the IRC. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not medical or mental health advice. Always consult a qualified professional for guidance related to your or your child's health. Never delay seeking help because of something you heard on this show.   © 2026 Valiant Sports Society. All rights reserved.
• Be Valiant Rewind: Madison Merkow | Injuries, Pressure & Mental Health in Youth Sports 20.05.2026 1sa 7dk

  During Mental Health Awareness Month, we're revisiting one of the most personal and important conversations we've had on Be Valiant. Todd sits down with his oldest daughter, Madison Merkow, for an honest discussion about the emotional realities of youth sports; including pressure, injuries, recruiting, confidence, identity, burnout, and the mental health struggles that often go unseen by parents, coaches, and teammates. Madison shares her journey from indoor volleyball to beach volleyball, the impact injuries and concussion had on her confidence and mental well-being, the pressure surrounding college athletics, and why so many young athletes lose their love for the game. Together, Todd and Madison explore: the emotional toll of injuries in sports fear and confidence after concussion recruiting pressure and college expectations supportive vs harmful coaching environments the importance of communication at home how parents can better support their athletes emotionally preserving joy in youth sports This episode is a raw parent-athlete conversation designed to help families better understand the mental and emotional side of competitive sports. If you're a parent, coach, or athlete navigating the pressures of youth sports, this conversation matters.   Host: Todd Merkow - CEO & Founder, Valiant Sports Society Powered by Valiant Sports Society Be Valiant.  Play Fearless. www.PlayFearless.org Valiant Sports Society is a non-profit organization as described in section 501(c)(3) of the IRC. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not medical or mental health advice. Always consult a qualified professional for guidance related to your or your child's health. Never delay seeking help because of something you heard on this show.   © 2026 Valiant Sports Society. All rights reserved.
• I Lost Myself After Youth Soccer: Sydney Merkow's Story of Identity Loss, Eating Disorder, Anxiety & Healing 13.05.2026 1sa 8dk

  Content Note: This episode includes discussion of anxiety, depression, eating disorders, self-harm thoughts, and mental health struggles related to youth sports. In this deeply personal episode of Be Valiant, Todd Merkow sits down again with his daughter Sydney to talk about what happened after her youth soccer journey ended. Sydney opens up about identity loss, anxiety, depression, perfectionism, eating disorder struggles, and the painful process of finding herself beyond the sport that once defined her. This conversation is honest, emotional, and necessary for parents of youth athletes. Sydney shares what she wishes parents understood, how pressure builds silently, why athletes often hide their struggles, and how healing became possible through therapy, writing, self-reflection, and learning to reconnect with joy. Host: Todd Merkow - CEO & Founder, Valiant Sports Society Powered by Valiant Sports Society Be Valiant.  Play Fearless. www.PlayFearless.org Valiant Sports Society is a non-profit organization as described in section 501(c)(3) of the IRC. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not medical or mental health advice. Always consult a qualified professional for guidance related to your or your child's health. Never delay seeking help because of something you heard on this show.   © 2026 Valiant Sports Society. All rights reserved.
• Linda Flanagan: What Youth Sports Can Be (Part 2) 29.04.2026 1sa 1dk

  In this follow-up conversation, Linda Flanagan returns to Be Valiant to move beyond the problems in youth sports and focus on what parents can actually do to create a better experience for their kids. After unpacking what youth sports has become in Part 1, this episode shifts to a more empowering conversation—centered on perspective, priorities, and the choices families can make to take back control. Linda shares real-world insights from her experience as a parent, coach, and author of Take Back the Game, including how to navigate pressure from clubs, how to think about specialization, and why outcomes like college sports and elite competition are often misunderstood. We also explore what true "success" in youth sports really looks like—and why it has far more to do with long-term health, enjoyment, and identity than wins, rankings, or scholarships. This episode dives into: • Why stepping back can actually benefit your child's development • How to evaluate team culture and coaching environments • The importance of multi-sport participation and avoiding burnout • What parents should prioritize when making youth sports decisions • How to help kids maintain a healthy identity beyond their sport Linda also shares a powerful reminder for parents: youth sports are not as important as they've been made to feel—and that realization can be incredibly freeing. If Part 1 helps you understand the system, this conversation is about navigating it with more clarity, confidence, and intention. Because youth sports doesn't have to stay what it is today—it can be something better. Watch this Epsiode Here Host: Todd Merkow - CEO & Founder, Valiant Sports Society Powered by Valiant Sports Society Be Valiant.  Play Fearless. www.PlayFearless.org Valiant Sports Society is a non-profit organization as described in section 501(c)(3) of the IRC. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not medical or mental health advice. Always consult a qualified professional for guidance related to your or your child's health. Never delay seeking help because of something you heard on this show.   © 2026 Valiant Sports Society. All rights reserved.
• Be Valiant Rewind: Linda Flanagan | What Youth Sports Has Become (Part 1) 22.04.2026 1sa 10dk

  Before sharing my newest conversation with Linda Flanagan, I wanted to bring back our original discussion—because this is where the conversation started. In this episode, Linda, author of Take Back the Game, joins me for a powerful look at what youth sports has become. From the pressure parents feel to the commercialization of the system, to the growing concerns around mental health, identity, and early specialization, this conversation pulls back the curtain on the reality many families are navigating today. Linda brings a unique perspective as a former athlete, longtime coach, parent of three, and journalist who has spent years studying the evolution of youth sports. Together, we explore how we got here, and why so many well-intentioned parents find themselves caught in a system that feels overwhelming, confusing, and at times, misaligned with what's best for their kids. We talk about: The fear that drives youth sports decisions today The pressure to specialize early—and why it can backfire How identity can become too tied to a single sport The disconnect between what parents want and what the system demands Why youth sports can feel far more important than it actually is This episode is Part 1 of a two-part conversation with Linda. In Part 2, we shift from understanding the problem to exploring what youth sports can be—and how parents can start making more confident, informed decisions for their families. If you're a parent trying to navigate the youth sports journey, this is an important place to start. Because before we can change the experience—we have to understand it. Watch epsiode here  Host: Todd Merkow - CEO & Founder, Valiant Sports Society Powered by Valiant Sports Society Be Valiant.  Play Fearless. www.PlayFearless.org Valiant Sports Society is a non-profit organization as described in section 501(c)(3) of the IRC. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not medical or mental health advice. Always consult a qualified professional for guidance related to your or your child's health. Never delay seeking help because of something you heard on this show.   © 2026 Valiant Sports Society. All rights reserved.
• Barry Buetel: A Girl Dad's Youth Sports Journey Through Pressure, Mistakes, and What Really Matters 15.04.2026 1sa 3dk

  What really happens when a lifelong sports professional becomes a youth sports parent? In this episode of Be Valiant, Host Todd Merkow sits down with longtime friend and broadcaster Barry Buetel to unpack the real, often emotional journey of raising three daughters in youth sports. Despite decades in professional sports, Barry shares how unprepared he felt stepping into the youth sports environment—and how quickly things like pressure, sideline behavior, and the pursuit of scholarships can change a parent's perspective. Together, they explore: • The shock of entering competitive youth sports as a parent • The difference between development and winning—and why it matters • How sideline behavior impacts every child, not just your own • The emotional toll youth sports can take on families • The importance of relationships, culture, and choosing the right coach • Why, in the end, it's about time together—not outcomes This is an honest, relatable conversation about mistakes, growth, and what it really means to support your child through sports.   Final Thought If you're a parent navigating youth sports, remember: You're allowed to walk away from the wrong team. You're allowed to demand a better culture. And most importantly—you're allowed to lead your family in a way that's right for your kids. Be Valiant. Play Fearless. Powered by Valiant Sports Society For more info and resources go to www.PlayFearless.org Host: Todd Merkow - CEO & Founder, Valiant Sports Society Valiant Sports Society is a non-profit organization as described in section 501(c)(3) of the IRC. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not medical or mental health advice. Always consult a qualified professional for guidance related to your or your child's health. Never delay seeking help because of something you heard on this show.   © 2026 Valiant Sports Society. All rights reserved.
• Jonathon Carone: Healthy Sports Parents, Fear, Failure, and Letting Kids Find Their Own Path 08.04.2026 1sa 2dk

  Jonathan Carone, founder of Healthy Sports Parents, joins Valiant Sports Society CEO & Founder, and host, Todd Merkow to talk about what youth sports parenting looks like when the focus shifts from pressure and performance to joy, growth, and long-term development. In this episode, Jonathan shares how his own experience as an athlete, coach, and dad shaped his mission to help parents better understand the emotional side of youth sports. He explains why kids need safe opportunities to fail, why parents must learn to identify the fears driving their decisions, and why so much of youth sports culture becomes unhealthy when adults try to control outcomes too early. Todd and Jonathan also discuss rec vs. travel sports, early specialization, communication between coaches and parents, the importance of letting kids develop on their own timeline, and why most parents want to do better — they just have never been taught how. This is an honest and insightful conversation for any parent trying to lead with more awareness, confidence, and courage in the youth sports journey. Host: Todd Merkow - CEO & Founder, Valiant Sports Society Powered by Valiant Sports Society Be Valiant.  Play Fearless. www.PlayFearless.org Valiant Sports Society is a non-profit organization as described in section 501(c)(3) of the IRC. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not medical or mental health advice. Always consult a qualified professional for guidance related to your or your child's health. Never delay seeking help because of something you heard on this show.   © 2026 Valiant Sports Society. All rights reserved.
• Liz Masakayan: An Olympic Volleyball Player and Coach's Perspective on Youth Sports 01.04.2026 1sa 3dk

  In this episode of Be Valiant, host Todd Merkow sits down with former Olympian, elite beach volleyball player, and coach Liz Masakayan for a candid, real-world conversation about what youth sports has become—and what it should be. Drawing from her experience as both an athlete and coach, Liz breaks down the growing tension between structure and freedom in youth sports. From the pressures of tryouts and early specialization to the realities of team dynamics, confidence, and development, this episode challenges many of the assumptions parents and athletes carry into the process. Todd and Liz explore: Why so many athletes are moving from indoor to beach volleyball The difference between control and ownership in an athlete's journey How early labels and positional decisions can limit development The importance of accountability, communication, and resilience What parents get wrong—especially from the sidelines Why adversity, not comfort, leads to long-term growth This is not a theoretical conversation—it's grounded in lived experience, real challenges, and honest perspective. If you're a parent navigating youth sports, or an athlete trying to find your path, this episode will help you think differently about development, competition, and what truly matters. Be Valiant. Play Fearless Host: Todd Merkow - CEO & Founder, Valiant Sports Society Powered by Valiant Sports Society www.PlayFearless.org Valiant Sports Society is a non-profit organization as described in section 501(c)(3) of the IRC. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not medical or mental health advice. Always consult a qualified professional for guidance related to your or your child's health. Never delay seeking help because of something you heard on this show. © 2026 Valiant Sports Society. All rights reserved.
• Andrew Beinbrink: The Truth About College Recruiting (and What Parents Get Wrong) 25.03.2026 1sa 4dk

  In this episode of Be Valiant, Todd sits down with former Arizona State standout and SportsForce CEO Andrew Beinbrink to unpack the reality of youth sports development and the college recruiting process. Andrew shares his journey from multi-sport athlete to pro baseball, and how those experiences shaped his mission to help families navigate one of the most confusing—and often misunderstood—paths in youth sports. This conversation goes far beyond recruiting. It dives into parenting, pressure, mental resilience, and what truly matters in an athlete's development. If you're a parent trying to make the "right" decisions for your child—or feeling overwhelmed by the process—this episode is a must-listen. Key Takeaways: • Why early specialization may be hurting your athlete • The 3 things kids actually want from sports (hint: it's not scholarships) • How the transfer portal is reshaping recruiting opportunities • Why most families misunderstand their athlete's true level • How to support your child without adding pressure   Be Valiant. Play Fearless. Host: Todd Merkow - CEO & Founder, Valiant Sports Society Guest:  Andrew Beinbrink, CEO & Founder - Sportsforce SportsForce Website Powered by Valiant Sports Society www.PlayFearless.org Valiant Sports Society is a non-profit organization as described in section 501(c)(3) of the IRC. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not medical or mental health advice. Always consult a qualified professional for guidance related to your or your child's health. Never delay seeking help because of something you heard on this show.   © 2026 Valiant Sports Society. All rights reserved.
• Christian Lavers and the ECNL Vision: What Youth Sports Should Look Like 18.03.2026 1sa 5dk

  In this episode of Be Valiant, host Todd Merkow sits down with Christian Lavers — founder and president of the ECNL (Elite Clubs National League) and a lifelong coach who has helped shape the modern landscape of elite youth soccer and college recruiting. Christian shares his own youth sports journey, how his parents approached sports in their household, and what ultimately pulled him from finance into coaching and leadership in the game. Christian breaks down why the ECNL was created, the original problems it set out to solve on the girls' side, and how competition and adversity helped sharpen the league's mission over time. The conversation goes deeper than wins and exposure, exploring what a truly great youth sports experience should feel like for players, parents, and families — and why environment matters as much as outcomes. Todd and Christian also discuss the changing realities of youth sports today: sideline behavior, communication between parents and coaches, mental health, and why resources like coach education and athlete health research are becoming essential. Christian explains how the ECNL is investing in better coaching, better information, and better experiences — while staying "sport-driven," not just business-driven. The episode closes with a fun rapid-fire segment, including Christian's definition of what it means to Be Valiant: be brave, be honorable, and stand up for what you believe. Key topics covered Christian's multi-sport background, specialization, and path into coaching The origin story of the ECNL and how it evolved into a national platform Club standards, league values, and what creates an "aspirational" environment Parents, coaches, and communication: building better guardrails Youth athlete mental health, sleep, and the importance of credible resources High school soccer, balance, and avoiding overly "professionalized" youth sports The future of ECNL and what "best experience in the world" really means Links to Referenced Info:  The ECNL Original Research Guest: Christian Lavers (Founder & President, ECNL) Host: Todd Merkow - CEO & Founder, Valiant Sports Society Powered by Valiant Sports Society Be Valiant.  Play Fearless. www.PlayFearless.org Valiant Sports Society is a non-profit organization as described in section 501(c)(3) of the IRC. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not medical or mental health advice. Always consult a qualified professional for guidance related to your or your child's health. Never delay seeking help because of something you heard on this show.   © 2026 Valiant Sports Society. All rights reserved.
• Dr. Erik Dean: Multi-Sport, Time Off, and Smart Prevention: A Sports Doctor's Playbook 11.03.2026 1sa 7dk

  In this episode of Be Valiant, Todd Merkow sits down with Dr. Erik Dean, Medical Director for Sports Medicine at HonorHealth and a former University of Arizona Division I football player, for a no-fluff conversation every sports parent needs to hear. Dr. Dean breaks down what he's seen change over 25 years treating athletes—especially the sharp rise in early specialization, overuse injuries, and major surgeries showing up at younger and younger ages. They dig into why multi-sport participation matters, how fatigue + growth spurts create real injury risk, and what parents should do when pain shows up in that critical "open growth plate" window. You'll also hear Dr. Dean's perspective as a girl dad and former youth coach, including how to keep sports fun, protect kids from burnout, and why even pro athletes take real off seasons (for a reason). The episode closes with rapid-fire questions on red flags, the most common injuries he sees, and what "Be Valiant" means from a team doctor's point of view. Host: Todd Merkow - CEO & Founder, Valiant Sports Society Powered by Valiant Sports Society Be Valiant.  Play Fearless. www.PlayFearless.org Valiant Sports Society is a non-profit organization as described in section 501(c)(3) of the IRC. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not medical or mental health advice. Always consult a qualified professional for guidance related to your or your child's health. Never delay seeking help because of something you heard on this show.   © 2026 Valiant Sports Society. All rights reserved.
• Joel Votaw - From the Middle of the Field: What Youth Soccer Referees Wish Parents Knew 04.03.2026 1sa 9dk

  Be Valiant sits down with Joel Votaw, Arizona's State Referee Administrator and a longtime youth sports parent, for a conversation from the perspective most families never hear: the middle of the field. Joel shares what today's referee landscape really looks like—why a huge percentage of officials are teenagers, what drives the ongoing referee shortage, and how sideline behavior (from parents and coaches) impacts not only the game, but the confidence and mental health of young officials. Together, Todd and Joel unpack the difference between passion vs. abuse, why tryout season creates so much stress for families, and what it takes to build a safer, more respectful environment where kids can simply play. You'll also hear Joel's push to grow the pipeline of female referees, plus practical ideas for how parents can help—starting with one simple habit that goes further than most people realize. If you've ever yelled "Call it both ways," questioned a handball, or wondered what refs are thinking when the sidelines get heated—this episode is for you. Topics covered: The reality of youth referees (and why so many are minors) Why officials quit—and what keeps them in the game Passion vs. abuse: where the line gets crossed How coach behavior fuels parent behavior (and vice versa) Building "Team Cool" culture on the sidelines Growing pathways for women in officiating Share this episode with a coach, a team parent, or any family entering the soccer/travel sports world. Host: Todd Merkow - CEO & Founder, Valiant Sports Society Powered by Valiant Sports Society Be Valiant. Play Fearless. Learn more about Valiant Sports Society: www.PlayFearless.org Support the mission: playfearless.org/donate Valiant Sports Society is a non-profit organization as described in section 501(c)(3) of the IRC. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not medical or mental health advice. Always consult a qualified professional for guidance related to your or your child's health. Never delay seeking help because of something you heard on this show. © 2026 Valiant Sports Society. All rights reserved.
• Skye Eddy: How to Be the Sports Parent Your Child Actually Needs 25.02.2026 1sa 4dk
• Crystalrae States: Development, Mental Health & Youth Softball 18.02.2026 1sa 7dk

  This episode is a must-listen for softball parents (and yes—baseball parents too). Todd Merkow sits down with Crystalrae States, a former Division II catcher, longtime coach, and the founder/owner of Boilermaker Softball Club in Pennsylvania—built with a clear mission: female-first development, led by high-quality coaches, and anchored in perspective, communication, and care. Crystalrae shares her journey from athlete to educator to sports industry leader—working in facility management, national youth programming, and coaching at multiple levels, including as head softball coach at Holy Family University. She also brings fresh perspective as a sports parent just entering the youth sports grind, raising three young kids (ages 3, 5, and 7). Together, Todd and Crystalrae unpack what too many families are fighting through right now: Why development beats "tournament chasing"—especially at 10U/12U/14U transitions The real challenge of finding quality coaches, and why female coaches are harder to retain (not for lack of talent—because life moves fast after college) How Boilermaker's culture is built on relationships, long-term growth, and creating athletes who still call their coach years later for advice The red flags of overpromising college outcomes ("We can't tell a 10U kid we'll get them to Oklahoma…") The narrowing window for multi-sport athletes, and how clubs can support cross-training without forcing early specialization A grounded approach to mental health: looking for patterns, getting to the root—not the symptom—and knowing when families should seek professional support Why sports culture at home matters—and how parents can follow the child's path instead of projecting their own Parent-coach communication done right: clear boundaries, real conversations, and shared responsibility for the athlete's experience The conversation closes with rapid fire, laughs, and Crystalrae's direct message to parents: these are kids—keep perspective, love watching them play, and don't lose the joy. Host: Todd Merkow - CEO & Founder, Valiant Sports Society Powered by Valiant Sports Society Be Valiant.  Play Fearless. www.PlayFearless.org Valiant Sports Society is a non-profit organization as described in section 501(c)(3) of the IRC. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not medical or mental health advice. Always consult a qualified professional for guidance related to your or your child's health. Never delay seeking help because of something you heard on this show.   © 2026 Valiant Sports Society. All rights reserved.
• Growing Up Santo: How Linda Santo Raised Confident, Balanced Athletes 11.02.2026 1sa 3dk

  In this heartfelt and often hilarious episode of Be Valiant, Todd Merkow sits down with longtime friend Linda Santo—sports parent, sports media veteran, and the daughter of Chicago Cubs icon and MLB Hall of Famer Ron Santo—for a wide-ranging conversation about youth sports culture, pressure, and what it really takes to protect kids' confidence and joy. Linda begins with her own unique upbringing in a baseball household shaped by her father's legacy, explaining how her view of sports was influenced not only by Ron Santo the player, but later by Ron Santo the broadcaster—returning to the Cubs spotlight for more than two decades and deepening his bond with the city of Chicago. From there, the conversation turns toward the generational contrast of sports parenting: the "drop-off and go" era versus today's hyper-involved, high-pressure environment—where kids are coached, evaluated, and specialized far earlier than ever. At the center of the episode are Linda's two sons, Sam and Spencer, and their very different journeys through baseball. Sam, a natural athlete (including a remarkable early ability as a switch hitter), experiences the emotions of trying out for his high school program—a moment that forces a new path and ultimately leads him to soccer, where he rediscovers confidence and joy before later returning to baseball with a healthier mindset. Spencer, driven and relentless, dives deep into the modern club baseball machine—private coaching, travel weekends, roster politics, and the mental strain of constant performance evaluation. Linda shares the toll that pressure can take on a young athlete's identity, including the telltale signs of stress and overthinking that parents often miss until it's staring them in the face. Together, Todd and Linda unpack the realities of today's "manufactured athlete" ecosystem: expensive club programs, oversized rosters, status ladders ("A team / B team"), parental sideline dynamics, and the myth that more money and more training automatically equals a college scholarship or pro opportunity. They also underscore a critical theme for families: multi-sport participation isn't just nostalgic—it can be a lifeline, physically and emotionally, especially when one sport stops being fun. The episode closes with rapid-fire takeaways and a powerful message Linda returns to again and again: keep perspective, protect the kid, and play the long game. The goal isn't just producing athletes—it's raising healthy, resilient young adults. Host: Todd Merkow - CEO & Founder, Valiant Sports Society Powered by Valiant Sports Society Be Valiant.  Play Fearless. www.PlayFearless.org Valiant Sports Society is a non-profit organization as described in section 501(c)(3) of the IRC. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not medical or mental health advice. Always consult a qualified professional for guidance related to your or your child's health. Never delay seeking help because of something you heard on this show.   © 2026 Valiant Sports Society. All rights reserved.
• Part 3 of 3 — When the Dream Unexpectedly Changes: Will Proctor, The Athlete's Voice 04.02.2026 1sa 5dk

  In the final episode of the three-part series "When the Dream Unexpectedly Changes," Todd Merkow sits down with longtime family friend Will Proctor to hear the athlete's full story—after earlier conversations with Will's parents, Jeff and Lisa Proctor. Will shares how sports shaped his identity from a young age, how baseball became his obsession, and how early success brought elite opportunities—and intense, self-imposed pressure. He opens up about the anxiety that quietly built behind the scenes, the moment everything shifted during his senior year of high school under heavy scouting attention, and how mental strain can derail performance even when the talent is there. Will then takes listeners through college baseball at the University of Georgia, an unexpected transition from infielder to pitcher, and a rapid rise that put him back on a pro trajectory—until a devastating shoulder injury changed everything. He describes the physical pain, the emotional fallout, the identity loss that followed, and the difficult process of letting go of the game he loved. Today, Will has built a new path as a filmmaker—carrying the discipline and drive from sports into creative work, including his documentary project American Daredevil. This episode is a powerful reminder for parents and athletes: your sport is something you do, not who you are—and the journey matters more than the outcome. Be Valiant.  Play Fearless.   Host: Todd Merkow - CEO & Founder, Valiant Sports Society Powered by Valiant Sports Society www.PlayFearless.org Valiant Sports Society is a non-profit organization as described in section 501(c)(3) of the IRC. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not medical or mental health advice. Always consult a qualified professional for guidance related to your or your child's health. Never delay seeking help because of something you heard on this show.   © 2026 Valiant Sports Society. All rights reserved.
• Part 2 of 3 - When the Dream Unexpectedly Changes: Lisa Proctor, A Mother's Perspective 28.01.2026 1sa 7dk

  In Part 2 of 3 of When the Dream Unexpectedly Changes, Todd Merkow sits down with Lisa Proctor—attorney, former ranked junior tennis player in Texas, marathoner, and the mother at the center of the Proctor family's youth sports journey. Lisa shares her own athletic story first: a highly competitive tennis career that unraveled in her senior year as she struggled with what we now recognize as the "mental game" and the yips—long before mental health support was part of the sports conversation. That lived experience shaped how she approached parenting two very different athletes: Hannah, who played with a healthier, more social mindset, and Will, whose discipline, drive, and identity became deeply tied to baseball. This episode goes behind the highlight reel and into the moments families rarely discuss: the pressure of MLB scout attention in high school, confidence swings, the intensity of SEC baseball, and the reality that athletes often hide anxiety behind toughness. Lisa describes the period leading into Will's shoulder injury—how quickly the dream shifted, what it was like to be in Athens as everything changed, and how difficult it was to watch the physical setbacks fuel emotional weight. She also reflects candidly on parenting differences—how she and Jeff processed the end of Will's baseball career differently—and why "checking in" matters more than checking stats. Lisa's message for parents is direct and earned: talk to your kids, pull out what they're really feeling, and remember it's their journey. This conversation sets the stage for Part 3, where the story is told by Will himself—the athlete living it. Listen next: Part 3 of 3 — Will Proctor: The Athlete's Voice.   Host: Todd Merkow - CEO & Founder, Valiant Sports Society Powered by Valiant Sports Society Be Valiant.  Play Fearless. www.PlayFearless.org Valiant Sports Society is a non-profit organization as described in section 501(c)(3) of the IRC. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not medical or mental health advice. Always consult a qualified professional for guidance related to your or your child's health. Never delay seeking help because of something you heard on this show.   © 2026 Valiant Sports Society. All rights reserved.