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.

Jean and Luke dive into the challenges and opportunities parents and coaches face in youth sports. Using the analogy of “mowing the parking lot,” they unpack why kids often spend more time at practice than actually improving—and how small adjustments can make a big difference.

From cutting down wasted minutes in lines and water breaks to teaching skills at the “edge of ability,” the conversation is full of practical insights for parents, coaches, and athletes alike. You’ll hear stories about Jonathan Isaac’s faith-driven shoe brand, lessons from the Williams sisters’ early training, and why unstructured play might be one of the best ways kids can grow.

Whether you’re a coach looking to run better practices or a parent wanting to support your child’s love of the game, this episode gives you actionable tools and encouragement to help kids truly get better—and enjoy the process along the way.

Today we have special guest Aaron Rose as we dive into a game-changing book: The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer. The conversation explores why hurry is the enemy of love, peace, and spiritual growth—and how it’s quietly shaping our kids, our parenting, and our sports culture.

From rushed car rides and late-night practices to forgotten shin guards and Chick-fil-A dinners in the backseat, they unpack the cost of living life at a frenetic pace. You’ll hear practical ways to slow down, protect family relationships, and reclaim joy—without giving up on sports altogether. Whether you’re a parent juggling multiple kids’ schedules or someone craving a slower, more intentional life, this episode offers both conviction and encouragement.

Key Takeaways:

• Why hurry and love can’t coexist
• How rushing creates anxiety in kids (and parents)
• Practical ways to embrace a slower schedule in youth sports
• The freedom of redefining commitment to a team
• How to use car rides and downtime for deeper connection

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 Scottie 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.