https://www.amazon.com/Brain-Youth-Sports-Science-Future/dp/1538143194

In Episode #86, I have a discussion with recurring guest and friend of the show Dr. Julie Stamm, PhD. We discuss what a concussion is and the various ways someone get a concussion-even outside of playing sports. Dr. Stamm gave updates on the most recent information regarding the efficacy of the Guardian Caps and what the future of their importance may look like. We also discussed the concussion that also plagues other sports, such as; soccer, wrestling, lacrosse, rugby and even cheerleading. Dr. Stamm gave updated information on the treatment and recovery from a concussion. Also, we talked about the more current "return to sports" after a concussion protocol. Dr. Stamm shared what new projects and research she's working on to further the knowledge and information or concussions. In the end, Dr. Stamm offers her advice on where athletes, parents and coaches can get the most current, trusted and accurate information surrounding concussions. In the end, I offer my 'Three Takeaways.'

Dr. Stamm always offers an in-depth and practical approach to concussion management.

As always, thanks for listening. Take care.

The Brain on Youth Sports: The Science, the Myths, and the Future: Stamm, Julie M.: 9781538143193: Amazon.com: Books

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In Episode #85, I have a very interesting and thoughtful conversation with former Div. I and NFL football player, husband, father and ministry leader, Kyle Carter. We discuss his childhood and how football became his sport of choice. Kyle shares where his inspiration came from and who were the mentors were in his life that shaped him into the man he is today. He discusses what the experience was like for his playing football on every level. We discuss what ultimately made him to decide to walk away from playing in the NFL and pursue ministry. Kyle opens up about his love for the ministry he leads at Carmel Friendship Church in Wesley Chapel, Florida, and how that ministry has positively impacted youth in the Tampa Bay area. Finally, Kyle offers his advice to youth and parents to help those who are struggling with daily life and need someone to confide in. In the end, I offer my 'Three Takeaways.'

If you have, know of, or even coach young kids, I urge you to have them listen to this episode. It's thought-provoking, informational and relatable.

As always, thanks for listening. Take care.

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In Episode #84, my guest is former marathon runner, triathlon competitor, former military personnel and now physical therapist Paula. We begin our conversation with Paula discussing her upbringing and what got her into running and eventually competing in marathons and triathlons. We briefly discuss what military-life was like and how that played a key role into her competitive nature. Paula shares who her influences were and how they shaped her physical and mental edge. We discuss how and what young athletes should do to keep their particular sport from being their sole identity. Paula shares what life was like for her as she began to live life without competing, how she handled it and what young athletes can do to handle that transition when that day eventually arrives. Finally, Paula imparts her wisdom to young athletes on how to prepare and handle life after sports. In the end, I offer my 'Three Takeaways' from the interview.

All athletes, formal and recreational, need to listen to this wise and informative episode.

As always, thanks for listening. Take Care.

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In Episode #83, I have a candid discussion with former Clark University baseball first baseman and DH, Alden Brown. During this discussion, Alden shares his childhood memories of playing multiple sports, including baseball. He discusses what got him interested in baseball and why he chose baseball over the other sports he played. We go in-depth about the friendships he built through baseball and how his friends fueled his competitiveness. Alden also talks about the tough times and moments he experienced while playing high school baseball, and how those moments shaped his playing future. We discuss life as a college athlete and the how and why he lost the love of the game. Finally, Alden shares what led him to decide to walk away from the sport that he loved so much. In the end, I offer my 'Three Takeaways.'

I encourage all youth athletes, coaches and parents to listen to this sobering discussion.

As always, thanks for listening. Take care.

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In Episode #82, I have a candid and enlightening conversation with Jason Williams. Jason is the Youth Director at Renew Birmingham and the Internship Director at Buildup Community School also in Birmingham, Alabama. We begin the conversation discussing Jason's favorite sports as a kid and which sport he ultimately became very good at. Jason talks about the Renew Birmingham program, how he got involved in it and how the program helps out youth in the city of Birmingham. Jason explains, in detail, the challenges the youth, that his program serves and advocates for, deal with on a daily basis. Jason also discusses his own challenges in dealing with the underserved community, his desire to help those in need and the restraints that Renew Birmingham are dealt when it comes to working with the local and state governments of Alabama. We discuss how the internships at Buildup Community School, in an ingenious way, prepares young kids for a career in the trades. Jason offers his insight as to why the disparities exist between black and white communities when it comes to healthcare, education and employment. Finally, Jason offers advice to young kids as to how they can improve their lives and potentially find a great career. In the end, I offer my 'Three Takeaways.'

This is a very informative and sobering discussion. I recommend everyone listen to it. As always, thanks for listening. Take care.

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In Episode #81, I have an enlightening conversation with Pharmacist Jessica Beal concerning the affect medications have on athletic performance. The conversation begins with Jessica sharing the sports she played as a youth athlete. She discusses which sport was her favorite, why it was her favorite and what inspired her to get involved in sports. Jessica shares, in detail, what prescribed medications she took as a college athlete and how those medications affected her athletic and social life. Jessica goes on to offer great insight into how certain medications can affect two athletes completely different. Jessica discusses what type of athletes she works with now and how she handles their athletic performance based on the medications they're taking. With PED's (Performance Enhancing Drugs) being a constant topic around sports, Jessica breaks down, in simple terms, the difference between PED's and over-the-counter medication and how they affect performance. She touches on how nutrition can aid in improving performance and possibly eliminating the use of medication. Finally, Jessica offers sound and knowledgeable advice to parents, athletes and coaches when it comes to being informed about how medication can and will affect athletic performance. In the end, I offer my 'Three Takeaways' from the episode.

This is a very informative and useful interview. I suggest every parent, coach, athletic trainer and athlete listen to this.

As always, thanks for listening. Take care.

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In Episode #80, I have a discussion about Depression with the co-host of the Big Bad Morning Show, in Baltimore, Jeremy Conn. Jeremy opens up about the childhood trauma that he endured and what became the root of his battle with depression. Jeremy shares what his childhood was like, the dynamics of his home-life and which sport was his "getaway." Jeremy goes in-depth about his multiple suicide attempts and what ultimately led him to seek help. He also discusses his altruistic motives and who was the inspiration behind them. We cover his selfless community and charity work, and the local Baltimore sports fan who captured his heart.

Whether you're dealing with depression or not, or maybe you know someone who is, everyone needs to listen to this heart-felt, touching and honest episode. It's sure to move you.

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In Episode #79, I have a conversation with a friend of the show and reoccurring guest, mental health expert Dr. Melissa Tate-Scruse. The topic of conversation is about Character. Dr. Tate-Scruse begins by explaining what her thoughts and vision is when it comes to the meaning of Character. We then transition to discussing how society views character and if having good character has gone by the wayside over the years. We discuss the, at best, questionable character by those in the entertainment and political realm. that has been in the news cycle over the past several months. Dr. Tate-Scruse sheds some important light on how parents should handle this confusing situation and what they need to do to ensure their kids are not being swayed by what they see on tv and social media. We also tackle the issue of brawls in sports and what can be done from a teaching and instilling good morals standpoint to curtail these incidents despite sports being highly emotional. Finally, Dr. Tate-Scruse offers her advice to kids who may be confused or struggling with what they're being taught at home compared to what they see on tv and how to decide what's right and what's wrong. In the end, I offer my 'Three Takeaways' from the episode.

I recommend that you listen to this insightful and though-provoking episode. Dr. Tate-Scruse offers sound judgement and advice.

As always, thanks for listening. Take care.

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