Youth Inc. with Greg Olsen

Mastering Skill Development: "QB Whisperer" Adam Dedeaux on Perfecting Practice and Building Confidence Nov 20, 2024

In this episode of Youth Inc., Greg Olsen and Dr. Gervais welcome Adam Dedeaux of 3DQB to break down how to elevate your practice approach for real results. Adam shares insights on finding the right balance between skill development and gameplay, creating an environment where athletes feel challenged yet supported, and fostering a true love for the game. Learn why effective practice goes beyond repetition, focusing instead on purpose, progress, and making every rep count. Discover how to build not only skills but also confidence and a passion that lasts a lifetime.

Learn more about our partners at Players Health - https://www.playershealth.com/safety-hub

Thank you to MaxU and Players Health for sponsoring this season of Youth Inc.

Building Mental Fitness: Essential Skills for Young Athletes with Seth Davis Nov 13, 2024

In this episode of Youth Inc., Greg Olsen & Dr. Michael Gervais are joined by special guest Seth Davis to explore the often-overlooked side of coaching: mental fitness. Seth emphasizes that psychological skills—like breathing, self-talk, and goal setting—are just as learnable as physical ones. Together, they discuss how coaches can prioritize mental fitness, equipping athletes with tools for focus, resilience, and confidence. Join us to learn practical techniques that empower athletes both on and off the field, making mental strength an essential part of any coach’s toolkit.

Go to maxu.co to learn more, and register using code YouthInc24 for $10 off a yearly subscription.

Thank you to our partners MaxU and Players Health for presenting this season of Youth Inc.

Finding The Key Traits of Great Coaches with UCLA's Mick Cronin Nov 08, 2024

In this insightful episode of Youth Inc., host Greg Olsen sits down with UCLA Men's Basketball Coach Mick Cronin to explore the core traits that make a great coach. Coach Cronin emphasizes the power of relationships in coaching, the importance of instilling resilience and responsibility, and balancing skill development with character-building. They also discuss the role of family and the value of life outside sports, providing a roadmap for fostering well-rounded athletes. Tune in for valuable advice on developing not only successful players but also strong, resilient individuals.

Learn more about our partners at Players Health - https://www.playershealth.com/safety-hub

Thank you to MaxU and Players Health for sponsoring this season of Youth Inc.

Transforming the Car Ride Home: Supporting Resilience and Growth in Youth Sports – with Greg Olsen & Dr. Michael Gervais Oct 30, 2024

In this episode of Youth Inc, hosts Greg Olsen and Dr. Michael Gervais dive into one of the most crucial yet challenging moments in youth sports: the car ride home. They explore how this time can shape young athletes’ mental and emotional growth, focusing on positive reflection over performance critiques. Greg and Dr. Gervais offer insights into guiding kids with open-ended questions, promoting resilience, and reinforcing that self-worth isn’t tied to scores or stats. Discover how to make the car ride home a safe space that empowers kids to learn, grow, and enjoy their sports journey.

MaxU - Visit our partners at maxu.co to learn more and register, use code YouthInc24 for $10 off a yearly subscription.

Youth Inc. is Back! New Season, New Insights with Greg Olsen & Dr. Michael Gervais Oct 28, 2024

In this new season of Youth Inc., former NFL star Greg Olsen and renowned psychologist Dr. Michael Gervais dive into the pivotal issues shaping youth sports today with SIX ALL NEW EPISODES.

From the intensity of the car ride home to the role of social media, they bring practical insights and expert advice for parents, coaches, and young athletes alike. Across the six episodes, they tackle the complexities of coaching, mental fitness, development, and ways to increase participation, empowering families and communities to make the youth sports experience positive and rewarding for all.

Catch the PREMIERE of Episode 1 this Wednesday

Luke Keuchly On Coaching Pop Warner Football, Adapting to Your Strengths and The Benefits of Watching Film Dec 14, 2022

In this episode Greg is joined by his former Carolina Panthers teammate Luke Keuchly. The pair discuss the high school football experience & recruiting (13:06), his approach to watching film (28:13) and coaching Pop Warner Football together (35:38).

Greg also answers listener questions (42:38).

Rate, review, subscribe and submit your questions on social @YouthInc.

Sports Refund has options for individuals and organizations. Ask your club if they offer it, or visit

SportsRefund.com/youthinc to learn more and sign up today.

Kevin Harvick On Youth Racing, Funding and Access Nov 30, 2022

In this episode Greg sits down with Kevin Harvick, professional stock car racer and Daytona 500 winner. The pair discuss the youth racing landscape (4:36), the high costs of racing (21:28) and the importance of access & strategy (28:03).

Greg also answers listener questions (49:51).

Rate, review, subscribe and submit your questions on social @YouthInc.

Dino Babers on Coaching Principles, Program Building and Collegiate NIL impact Nov 23, 2022

Dino Babers, Head Football Coach at Syracuse University, joins Greg for a deep dive into his principles of coaching (17:39), and what goes into building a competitive football program (34:00). Plus Dino gives a coach's perspective on the collegiate NIL space (45:47).
Greg also answers listener questions (1:00:30). Rate, review, subscribe and submit your questions on social to @YouthInc.

Skip Gilbert On U.S. Youth Soccer, Specialization and Development Nov 16, 2022

In this episode Greg sits down with Skip Gilbert, CEO of U.S. Youth Soccer. The pair discuss the culture of soccer in America (8:23), negative effects of specialization (18:40) and the importance of coaching in youth development (35:43).

Greg also answers listener questions (50:20).

Rate, review, subscribe and submit your questions on social @YouthInc.

Marcellus Wiley On Maximizing Talent and Developing Internal Drive Nov 09, 2022

In this episode Greg is joined by Marcellus Wiley, former NFL football player and veteran NFL broadcaster. The pair discuss the pressure of maximizing talent (11:06), the importance of internal drive (23:42) and his journey to Columbia (35:44).

Greg also answers listener questions (51:44).

Rate, review, subscribe and submit your questions on social @YouthInc.

Christian Haynes “Thee BlackBadger” on Being a Full-Time Content Creator Nov 02, 2022

In this episode Greg is joined by Christian Haynes, also known as “Thee BlackBadger,” former defensive back for UNC Charlotte and full time content creator. The pair discuss the transition from athlete to content creator (12:34), handling negative comments online (17:58) and how he leveraged his content into a career (24:36).

Greg also answers listener questions (43:02).

Rate, review, subscribe and submit your questions on social @YouthInc.

Yogi Roth on the Elite 11, Coaching Styles, and What Makes a 5 Star QB Oct 26, 2022

In this episode Greg sits down with Yogi Roth, football analyst and New York Times Best-Selling Author & Emmy award-winning filmmaker. The pair discuss the importance of frontloading (23:15), the impact of the Elite 11 (25:30), different approaches to coaching (50:44) and his new book ‘5 Star QB’s’ (1:02:19).

Greg also answers listener questions (1:04:25).

Rate, review, subscribe and submit your questions on social @YouthInc.

Tom House On The Mechanics of Pitching, The Power of Play and Handling Failure Oct 19, 2022

In this episode Greg sits down with Tom House, the "father of modern throwing mechanics." The pair discuss developing athletes with the power of play (9:58), how to handle failure (18:41), the importance of warming up (30:18) and of course, the mechanics of pitching (55:11).

Greg also answers listener questions (59:47)

Rate, review, subscribe and submit your questions on social @YouthInc.

Pop Warner’s Tim Glase on Evolution of the Org. & Coaching Challenges Oct 12, 2022

In this episode Greg sits down with Tim Glase, Director of Operations and Development at Pop Warner. The pair discuss the evolution of Pop Warner (10:22), differences in regional & local leagues (23:24) and the challenges of youth sports coaching (42:56).

Greg also answers listener questions (1:03:50). Rate, review, subscribe and submit your questions on social @YouthInc

Pat Forde on raising an Olympian, the sacrifice of swimmers and what's next in college football Oct 05, 2022

In this episode Greg is joined by sports journalist Pat Forde. The pair discuss the transfer portal (10:00) and the college football playoff expansion (13:16), lifestyles of swim athletes (24:23) and being present for his daughter’s Olympic Silver Medal in Tokyo (39:00).

Greg also answers listener questions (52:51).

Rate, review, subscribe and submit your questions on social @YouthInc.

Bruce Feldman on the fun and challenges of coaching pee wee football Sep 28, 2022

Greg sits down with Bruce Feldman, National College Football Insider for The Athletic. The pair discuss coaching his sons’ pee wee football team (16:06), implementing the “slow mesh” (26:56), and preparing kids for high pressure situations (37:58).

Greg also answers listener questions (52:10).

Rate, review, subscribe and submit your questions on social @YouthInc.

Larry Nance Jr. on burnout, coaching styles and highlight culture Sep 21, 2022

Greg sits down with Larry Nance Jr, forward for the New Orleans Pelicans. The pair discuss preventing burnout in sport specialization (9:10), adapting to different coaching styles (36:38) and the negative effects of highlight culture (49:46).

Greg also answers listener questions (57:46).

Rate, review, subscribe and submit your questions on social @YouthInc.

IMG Academy's Tim Pernetti on what they offer, how it works and how to know if it's right for your child Sep 14, 2022

Greg joins Tim Pernetti, Chief Operating Officer of IMG Academy, for a deep dive into their approach to athletics and school. The pair discuss scholarships & financial aid opportunities (13:00), recruiting and the application process (19:37), the holistic approach of the IMG Academy and what a day in the life looks like for an IMG student (43:14).

Greg also answers listener questions (55:31).

Rate, review, subscribe and submit your questions on social @YouthInc.

Josiah Johnson on leveraging social media, handling trolls and controlling your narrative Sep 07, 2022

Greg sits down with Josiah Johnson, the King of #NBATwitter and co-host of the Outta Pocket podcast. The pair discuss benefits & pitfalls of leveraging social platforms (14:16), how to handle internet trolls (38:34), and the importance of athletes controlling their own narrative (47:00).

Greg also answers listener questions (56:26).

Rate, review, subscribe and submit your questions on social @YouthInc.

Jennie Finch on travel softball, safety mechanics of pitching and the challenges of coaching Aug 31, 2022

Jennie Finch, softball icon and Olympic gold medalist, sits down with Greg to discuss how travel softball prepared her for the future (13:37), the safety mechanics of pitching (19:29), and the challenges of balancing being a parent while coaching youth softball (38:42).

Greg also answers listener questions (56:05).

Rate, review, subscribe and submit your questions on social @YouthInc.

Christian Yelich on his unique path to the pros, learning from failure and how small adjustments make for big results Aug 24, 2022

Christian Yelich, left fielder for the Milwaukee Brewers, joins Greg to discuss traditional baseball player development (15:30), how to deal with adversity and failure (30:10), and the importance of repetition and making small adjustments (41:00).

Greg also answers listener questions (59:22).

Rate, review, subscribe and submit your questions on social @YouthInc.

Dr. Michael Gervais on coaching techniques, mindfulness and parental involvement Aug 17, 2022

Dr. Michael Gervais is back! Greg and Dr. Gervais discuss the process of challenging your kids (10:40), the importance of asking questions in coaching (15:42), practicing mindfulness as a family (23:30), and parental involvement in youth sports (34:22).
Greg also takes listener questions. Submit your questions on social @YouthInc.
Rate, review and subscribe and we'll see you next week!

Luke Fedlam on what parents need to know about the NIL era Aug 10, 2022

Luke Fedlam, NIL expert & sports attorney, sits down with Greg to discuss what led to the Supreme Court NIL ruling (8:22); its impact on recruiting (21:00) and the transfer portal (43:52), and how universities are adapting to the future (55:17).

Greg also answers listener questions (58:53).

Rate, review, subscribe and submit your questions on social @YouthInc.

Paul Rabil on founding Premier Lacrosse League, youth access and the history of the game Aug 03, 2022

Paul Rabil joins the show today to discuss the history of lacrosse (5:30), importance of access for youth sports (24:30), and the growth opportunity with the Premier Lacrosse League (34:13).

Greg also reacts and takes listener questions.

Rate, review, subscribe and submit your questions on social @YouthInc

Tony Harper on travel baseball, the recruiting process, and Perfect Game Youth Jul 27, 2022

Greg sits down with Tony Harper, Youth Operations Director for Perfect Game Youth. The pair discuss the pros and cons of travel baseball (14:50), Perfect Game’s showcases & the college recruiting process (27:29), and the best resources for youth development (37:13).

Greg also answers listener questions. Submit yours on social @YouthInc.

Rate, review, subscribe and we'll see you next week.

Lisa McCaffrey on Parenting Styles, Taunting and Football in the Family Jul 20, 2022

Greg sits down with Lisa McCaffrey, former Stanford soccer star and mother of four. The pair discuss parenting for different personalities (20:38), taunting in youth sports (44:00), and her husband Ed McCaffrey getting her sons back together at Northern Colorado (53:20). Plus, a special apperance from Lisa’s son and Carolina Panthers running back, Christian McCaffrey.

Greg also answers listener questions. Submit yours on social @YouthInc.

Rate, review, subscribe and we'll see you next week.

Nancy Lieberman on Title IX, Breaking Barriers and Learning from Kobe & Muhammad Ali Jul 13, 2022

Greg sits down with Nancy Lieberman, basketball hall of famer & women’s sports icon. The pair discuss playing at Rucker Park as a little girl (11:47), learning from Kobe Bryant & Muhammad Ali (23:06), the opportunities Title IX created (30:29), and coaching her son, American-Israeli professional basketball player T.J Cline (48:40).

Greg also reacts and takes listener questions.

Rate, review, subscribe and submit your questions on social @YouthInc.

Greg Answers Listener Questions Jul 06, 2022

The Q+A episode! Greg tackles questions from Youth Inc listeners head-on. Topics include when kids should start playing tackle football (3:35), how to handle a sibling rivalry (9:37), and how coaching impacts a spouse (36:47).

Rate, review, subscribe and submit your questions on social @YouthInc.

Jack Marucci on the Marucci Brand, Injury Prevention and Orlando Cabrera Jun 29, 2022

Greg sits down with Jack Marucci, LSU Director of Athletic Training and founder of Marucci Sports. The pair discuss the shed origin story of Marucci Bats (12:35), the time when Red Sox player Orlando Cabrera used a Marucci Bat for the first time in an MLB game (22:56), and cutting edge technology used for preventative measures for young athletes (31:06).

Greg also reacts and takes listener questions.

Rate, review, subscribe and submit your questions on social @YouthInc.

A Special Father's Day Episode with Chris Olsen Jun 22, 2022

Greg is joined by a youth sports legend: his father, Chris Olsen. Chris shares how he built a legendary high school football program (17:44) and provides insight into the parenting approach that molded Greg and his brothers (36:25). Plus, Greg and Chris respond to listener questions like:

What is one teaching moment that Chris wishes he handled differently with Greg?
Do parents these days have it harder or easier than previous generations?

Please rate, review and subscribe. Follow us on social media and submit your questions for Greg at @YouthInc on Twitter, Instagram and TikTok.

Kim Mulkey on cultivating a competitive spirit, recruiting and the parallels of parenting and coaching Jun 15, 2022

Greg sits down with Kim Mulkey, Hall of Fame Coach & Head Women's Basketball Coach at LSU. The pair discuss the importance of passion in sports and cultivating a competitive spirit (17:32), the recruiting process for high school athletes (31:30), and her parenting philosophy in raising two high level athletes (42:55).

Greg also reacts and takes listener questions.

Rate, review, subscribe and submit your questions on social @YouthInc.

Tom Farrey on youth sports access, the quality of local sports teams and the Children’s Bill of Rights in Sports Jun 08, 2022

Greg sits down with Tom Farrey, the founder of the Aspen Institute’s Sports and Society Program. The pair discuss the issue of access & resources for kids in youth sports (8:03), the importance of lifting the quality of local sports teams (19:22) and the Children’s Bill of Rights in Sports, developing a higher standard for youth sports organizations (36:53).

Greg also reacts and takes listener questions.

Rate, review, subscribe and submit your questions on social @YouthInc

Rick Macci on training the Williams sisters, managing parents, and assessing true greatness Jun 01, 2022

Greg sits down with legendary tennis coach Rick Macci, who was recently portrayed in the Oscar-winning film King Richard. The pair discuss Rick's process with parents (13:51), his experiences with pros like Serena (49:56) and how to spot the next great pro tennis competitor (24:25).

Greg also reacts to a New York Times article about tennis academies recruiting younger kids, and takes listener questions.

Rate, review, subscribe and submit your questions on social @YouthInc.

Dale Earnhardt Jr and Kyle Busch on Legacy, Parenting and Embracing Expectations May 25, 2022

Greg is joined by two NASCAR legends: Dale Earnhardt Jr and Kyle Busch, for a special sit down episode in Charlotte, NC. The three discuss the balance between support and failure (21:51), losing and sportsmanship (48:18), how to manage and embrace expectations (1:06:52). Plus, Greg and producer Tasha take listener questions. Please rate, review and subscribe. Follow us on social media and submit your questions for Greg at @YouthInc on Twitter, Instagram and TikTok.

Project Play Summit Panel on Access to Youth Sports, Rec Leagues, and Finding Quality Coaches May 18, 2022

Live from the Project Play Summit in Washington, DC, Greg sits down with a panel of experts in the space: Jean Lee Batrus, MLB/MLBPA Youth Development Foundation Jason Sacks, Chief Development Officer, Positive Coaching Alliance Jose Corona, VP, Programs/Partnerships - Eat.Learn.Play Foundation The group discusses the challenges that influence participation and access to sports (8:43), quality and positive coaching at the youth level (24:09) and how to address the needs and wants of different kids and communities through sport (20:00). Please rate, review and subscribe. Follow us on social media and submit your questions for Greg on social media: @YouthInc.

Jim Boeheim on Coaching His Sons, Recruiting and the New Era of NIL and Transfer Portal May 11, 2022

Legendary college basketball coach Jim Boeheim joins Greg on the show to discuss "the best season he's ever had" coaching his sons (10:44), recruiting challenges and wins (24:12) and how he's handling the new era of collegiate athletics (40:52). Please rate, review and subscribe. Follow us on social media and submit your questions for Greg at @YouthInc. Special thank you to our presenting sponsor: Invisalign.

Mike Brey on the recruiting landscape, his coaching philosophy and the impact of Coach K May 04, 2022

Notre Dame's Head Men's Basketball Mike Brey joins Youth Inc this week. Greg and Coach Brey talk about the college recruiting landscape (19:35), his coaching philosophy and what he learned from Duke's Coach K (31:13) and the importance of developing confidence in a team (47:42). Please rate, review and subscribe. Follow us on social media and submit your questions for Greg at @YouthInc. Special thank you to our presenting sponsor: Invisalign.

Malachi & Eric Nelson on Decommitting from Oklahoma, USC Head Coach Lincoln Riley and NIL Deals Apr 27, 2022

Los Alamitos High School Quarterback and Recent USC commit Malachi Nelson and his father Eric Nelson joins Youth Inc this week. Greg and Malachi talk Sport Specialization (19:52), recruiting landscape and following Lincoln Riley to USC (37:57) and the impact of NIL deals for college athletes (58:44).

Russell Wilson on the trade, his youth coaching philosophy and the importance of self talk Apr 20, 2022

Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson joins Youth Inc. just weeks after his recent trade from the Seattle Seahawks. Greg and Russell discuss how to balance playing multiple sports at the youth level (31:31), using imagery in parenting and coaching (49:28), and the effect of the language on a child's athletic abilities and skills (58:20).

Keith Tkachuk Apr 13, 2022

Legendary National Hockey League player Keith Tkachuk joins Youth Inc. today to share his experience in American hockey. Greg and Keith discuss the regional nature of hockey (20:11), the huge commitments some youth hockey players make to excel (29:50) and the importance of trusting the coaches as a parent (55:22). Please rate, review and subscribe. Follow us on social media and submit your questions for Greg at @YouthInc.Special thank you to our presenting sponsor: Invisalign.

Eric Weddle Apr 06, 2022

Greg is reunited with his friend, NFL veteran and recent Super Bowl champion Eric Weddle. Eric and Greg discuss Eric's experience growing up as a multi-sport athlete (17:21), the balance between pushing your child and taking their lead (28:17) and Eric's core coaching philosophies in anticipation of his new head football coach role (1:08:41). Please rate, review and subscribe and follow us on social media @YouthInc. We love hearing from you!Special thanks to our presenting sponsor: Invisalign.

BONUS: Roy Williams Apr 01, 2022

College Basketball Hall of Fame Coach Roy Williams joins Greg for a special episode ahead of this weekend's NCAA Final Four matchup between UNC and Duke. Coach Williams shares how he prepares young men for big moments (4:40), his relationship with Coach K (13:25) and his experience in parenting and youth sports (17:35). Plus, he makes a prediction for Saturday's game (spoiler: he may be biased).

Sam Mewis (and her father, Bob) Mar 30, 2022

Sam Mewis is a current US Women's National Team midfielder, 2019 FIFA World Cup Champion and 2020 US Female Soccer Player of the Year. Sam and her father, Bob, sit down with Greg to discuss sport specialization (13:35), playing and competing with Kristie Mewis (19:50) and sacrifices their family made (39:56). Plus, Sam and Bob give Greg some sage advice for his nine-year old daughter's soccer team (28:19).

Cooper Manning Mar 23, 2022

Greg is joined by American entrepreneur, father, and television host Cooper Manning to talk about raising a family of successful athletes, his son Arch and his experience in the recruiting system, and the values he learned growing up in the Manning household.

Shawn Johnson Mar 16, 2022

Greg is joined by Olympic gold-medal gymnast, mother of two and New York Times bestselling author Shawn Johnson. Shawn discusses importance of balance in youth sports (15:40), the coaching style and 20-year relationship with Liang Chow (31:22), and how having fun in training makes a successful athlete (52:08).

Dr. Michael Gervais Mar 09, 2022

Greg is joined by world-renowned psychologist Dr. Michael Gervais. The two discuss cultivating an environment of growth (19:12), the importance of the mental aspect of sport (43:20), the state of youth sports today (1:16:15) and more. Please rate, review and subscribe and follow us on social media @YouthInc. Special thanks our presenting sponsor: Invisalign.

Jerry Rice Mar 09, 2022

Greg sits down with his childhood hero and NFL Legend Jerry Rice in Los Angeles during Super Bowl week. Jerry shares stories about his legendary work ethic (12:47), values and accountability (23:40), and why he's probably not joining Deion in the collegiate coaching ranks (35:39). Please rate, review and subscribe and follow us on social media @YouthInc. Special thanks our presenting sponsor: Invisalign.

Welcome to Youth Inc. Feb 18, 2022

Youth Inc. is a journey into the changing world of youth sports in America, led by Greg Olsen: 14 year NFL veteran and father of 3 young children. After a lifetime of sports, Greg finds himself caught in the uncertainty and stress of balancing his experience as the son of a coach and a pro athlete, the responsibility of being a youth coach, and his primary role as a father. Join Greg on Youth, Inc as he sits down with legacy sports families, coaches, psychologists, authors and more in search of guidance and tools to make the best decisions for his family.

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