What does it actually look like to coach kids well and to parent youth sports without losing perspective? In this episode, we sit down with Brad from The Coaching Dad to talk honestly about the realities of volunteer coaching, sideline pressure, and the expectations parents and coaches quietly carry. From first-time dad-coaches stepping onto the field to navigating yelling, playing time, and perceived favoritism, Brad shares practical wisdom for keeping youth sports simple, fun, and development-focused.

Together, we wrestle with the tension between winning and growth, why fundamentals and “chaotic” practices matter more than short-term results, and how parents can take ownership of their child’s development without putting unfair pressure on volunteer coaches. This conversation is a reminder that youth sports are a long game, and when we focus on character, confidence, and joy, we give kids something far more valuable than a trophy.

What does it really take to chase a baseball dream, and what does it cost along the way? In this episode, we sit down with former college baseball player Bryce Lenz to pull back the curtain on the long road from youth ball to college and beyond. Together, we talk about time, pressure, burnout, and the difference between loving the game and treating it like a job. Bryce shares his firsthand experience navigating multi-sport life, early specialization, club baseball culture, and the grind of post-college opportunities where talent, timing, and sacrifice collide. Along the way, we wrestle with questions parents and athletes rarely slow down to ask. When should kids specialize? How much is too much? What happens when sports become our identity? Through honest stories, humor, and faith-centered wisdom, this conversation invites families to think differently about development, joy, and purpose, reminding us that baseball is something we do, not who we are.

Is youth baseball actually toxic, or are we navigating it without a clear map? In this season two opener, Luke Baker and Jean Anderson tackle one of the most emotionally charged questions parents face. When does competitive baseball help our kids thrive, and when does it quietly cost us more than we realize? Drawing from years of coaching, parenting, and faith centered reflection, we explore the realities of rec ball, select teams, and travel baseball while looking honestly at money, time, pressure, and the subtle ways adult expectations shape a child’s experience. Along the way, we talk about “crazy parent” moments we have all felt, the difference between development and winning, how to spot healthy versus toxic club cultures, and why counting all the costs, financial, relational, and spiritual, truly matters. With humor, humility, and hope, this conversation invites parents to slow down, ask better questions, and choose youth sports paths that protect joy, character, and family values long before the scoreboard ever does.

Select Baseball Toxic vs Thriving

Select Baseball Cost Checklist

What’s the right way to support a young athlete without pushing too hard? In this episode, we dive into strength and conditioning for kids, preventing overuse injuries during rapid growth phases, and the timing of sport specialization. Dr. John Arvesen shares practical tips for recognizing warning signs like persistent pain, swelling, or fatigue, balancing recovery with competition, and fostering long-term health through sleep, nutrition, and rest. We also explore the difference between structured, year-round training and play-based, intrinsic specialization that keeps kids engaged without risk of burnout. Whether your child is just starting out or committed to a primary sport, this conversation gives parents tools to guide their athletes wisely and intentionally.

What do you do when your team doesn’t win a single game all season? Luke, Jean, and Aaron get real about what it’s like to lead a winless team—and what that reveals about our expectations as parents and coaches.

From redefining what “winning” looks like to checking our own hearts when we care more than the kids do, this conversation reminds us that character and joy matter more than the scoreboard. They unpack how to keep kids motivated, handle frustrated parents, and help both the ultra-competitive and the carefree players grow through it all.

Whether your team’s undefeated or winless, this one’s a gut-check for every coach and dad who wants to raise kids who love the game—and don’t lose perspective along the way.

What happens when a dad’s good intentions turn into pressure that crushes his kid’s love for the game? Luke and Jean sit down with guest Brian Campion to talk about how easily encouragement can cross into control — and the long-term impact it can have on a child’s heart. From sideline intensity to post-game car rides, they unpack real stories of overbearing parenting, share lessons from Scripture, and offer practical ways to build character and connection instead of resentment. Whether you coach, cheer, or just want to raise resilient kids, this episode will challenge and encourage you to refocus on what really matters.

This week, Luke Baker and Jean Anderson sit down with authors Brian Smith and Ed Uszynski, who co-wrote Away Game: A Christian Parent’s Guide to Navigating Youth Sports. Together, they explore how faith can transform the way parents and kids experience today’s high-pressure sports culture.

Brian and Ed share their experiences from decades in sports ministry, unpacking how Christian families can thrive in a youth sports world that often feels like “an away game.” They discuss balancing competition with character, the pressure of performance, how parents can model grace from the sidelines, and what it really means to raise kids who love both Jesus and the game.

If you’ve ever wrestled with travel teams, Sunday tournaments, or the tension between sports and church, this episode is for you.

🎧 Listen now to discover how to win what really matters.

Luke and Jean and the team dive into the phrase “Look good, feel good, feel good, play good”—popularized by Coach Prime—and how it applies to youth sports and beyond. They explore the balance between providing kids with gear that helps them feel prepared and confident versus overemphasizing appearance to the point it becomes a crutch.

Jean recounts showing up at a high-level youth football tournament where the teams, coaches, and even parents had coordinated looks that created an atmosphere of professionalism and intimidation. The discussion covers practical basics—properly fitting cleats, inflated balls, and a good backpack—as well as optional accessories for self-expression, like sunglasses or armbands.

The conversation shifts to deeper lessons: teaching kids their identity is in Christ, not in their gear, and building resilience so they can play well even without their preferred equipment. Ultimately, the message is to do the basics well, let personality shine within reason, and keep confidence rooted in skill and faith—not just appearance.

• Principle Matters: The “look good, feel good, play good” mindset can boost confidence and send a message of professionalism and readiness.
• Start with Basics: Properly fitting gear, an inflated ball, and a simple backpack go a long way—fancy extras aren’t necessary.
• Balance Expression & Practicality: Allow kids to express their personality through accessories if it’s fun for them, but avoid over-reliance on appearance.
• Root Confidence in the Right Place: Remind kids their worth and success aren’t defined by what they wear but by their identity in Christ (Colossians 3:23).
• Foster Resilience: Equip kids to adapt and perform even when missing their usual gear—confidence should come from skill, preparation, and mindset.