This week on the Heart of Sports, we talk with PhillyVoice Sixers reporter Adam Aaronson about the franchise’s dramatic transformation, including LeBron James, Jaylen Brown, Joel Embiid, and a much deeper roster. Then, from the Trenton Thunder dugout, AJ Swader and Julian “Juju” Stevens share their baseball journeys, the work required to pursue a professional career, and the mental toughness needed to keep chasing the dream.

This week on The Heart of Sports, we break down the Phillies’ six-game winning streak, their improved approach at the plate, and whether this style can carry them through the playoffs.

Then, we take the show on the road to the Trenton Thunder dugout for a conversation with manager and former MLB All-Star Shawn Chacón. He discusses developing young players, balancing winning with opportunity, managing slumps, and teaching athletes to handle frustration, failure, and the mental demands of baseball.

Plus, they discuss Deshaun Watson, college eligibility chaos, and the growing influence of private equity and debt in professional sports.

This week we welcome two sets of guests using sports to strengthen their communities. Professional basketball player and JAB founder Jared Armstrong joins James Beard Award-winning chef Michael Solomonov to discuss the million-dollar JAB Classic, their limited-edition Federal Donuts collaboration, and a shared mission to combat hate by bringing people together through basketball, food, and honest conversation.

Then, Lehigh Valley Phantoms head coach John Snowden reflects on his unconventional journey from undrafted player to AHL head coach. Snowden explains how the Phantoms develop future Flyers, balance accountability with the freedom to make mistakes, guide players through difficult setbacks, and prepare a promising young roster for the season ahead.