What happens when the boardroom mindset collides with youth sports sidelines? This episode takes us on a deeply personal journey with a successful CEO whose competitive drive propelled him to the top of his industry—until he found himself struggling with his reactions to his 10-year-old son's club soccer experiences.

The conversation unfolds with remarkable candor as our guest reveals how watching his son play triggered unexpected emotional responses, leading him to question his parenting approach and values. "I'm laying up at night, waking up at 4 AM—I'm not thinking about my business, I'm thinking about this ordeal," he confesses, describing the inner turmoil that prompted his viral LinkedIn post on the topic.

We explore the fascinating psychological territory where high-achievement meets parenting, unpacking the complicated feelings many parents experience but rarely discuss. Our guest articulates the core dilemma perfectly: "Am I helping facilitate giving the opportunities and training I never had? Or am I scarring this little kid by the way I'm reacting?" This question resonates deeply with anyone who has found themselves invested—perhaps too invested—in their child's activities.

The most powerful moments come when our guest recognizes the fundamental difference between his relationship with competition and his son's perspective. While he "loved to compete and hated to lose," his son "loves to compete but doesn't really affect him if he loses"—a healthier outlook that challenges the parent's assumptions. We also hear about a transformative email from a club coach imploring parents to remember that their primary role isn't to be another voice coaching from the sidelines, but simply to be supportive parents.

Whether you're navigating youth sports as a parent, coaching young athletes, or simply interested in the psychology of competition and family dynamics, this conversation offers valuable perspective on finding the balance between supporting excellence and allowing children to develop their own relationship with achievement. Listen in and reflect on how we might all bring more joy and less pressure to the next generation's playing fields.