In this episode of Heaven or Heisman, we sit down with our friend Kyle Porter from Normal Sport for a deep conversation that blends golf, faith, and the search for meaning. Together with Jean and the team, Kyle unpacks Scotty Scheffler’s surprising press conference comments on fulfillment, Ecclesiastes, and what it truly means to chase success.

From Solomon’s wisdom to the grind of professional athletes, the crew explores why even at the very top, achievement often feels empty. They dive into the tension between joy and happiness, the fleeting nature of success, and how faith reshapes our understanding of work, family, and calling. Along the way, you’ll hear stories of triumph, struggle, and the lessons parents and athletes alike can draw from sports culture.

If you’ve ever wrestled with the question, “Is this it?”—this episode will challenge and encourage you to see beyond accomplishments to the deeper source of lasting joy.

Today we dive headfirst into the cultural shift in youth sports—how money, pressure, and year-round specialization are reshaping the game for kids and families alike. We reflect on what sports used to be, where they’re headed, and the ripple effects on motivation, structure, access, family roles, and kids’ identities. From NIL million-dollar deals to the quiet erosion of “just playing for fun,” we share our honest thoughts, personal experiences, and biblical insights on how parents can navigate this new landscape without losing sight of what matters most.

Key Takeaways

• Youth sports motivation has shifted from fun to fame, money, and exposure.
• Year-round specialization is erasing the seasonal variety and joy of multiple sports.
• Fast-tracking kids’ development often comes at the expense of long-term growth.
• Access to elite opportunities is increasingly tied to wealth and connections.
• Parents’ roles are moving from supportive cheerleaders to high-stakes investors.
• Kids are being branded as athletes first, rather than being valued as children.
• Burnout, anxiety, and depression are real risks in this pressurized environment.
• The culture around sports often mirrors the idolization of money in Scripture.
• Families can model a healthier culture by redefining success and celebrating character.
• Change starts one kid, one team, one family at a time.

In this lighthearted and honest episode, Luke Baker and Jean Anderson share the chaos, comedy, and camaraderie that comes with being a youth sports parent. From the infamous shoe crisis to the magic of high fives, they unpack seven laugh-out-loud relatable realities only parents on the sidelines truly understand. Whether you're a veteran coach, a snack mom, or a barefoot-kid defender, this episode is a fun tribute to all the unglamorous—and unforgettable—moments that make up the youth sports experience.