The Pure Athlete Podcast

93. Sports Nutrition Coach Kelsey Poulter: Why Nutrition Is Key For Young Athletes Oct 30, 2024

Fueling your body with the right fuel is critical to an athlete's ability to operate at peak performance. Professionals in every sport have discovered the value of regulating what they eat, how much they eat, and when they eat. Young athletes are no different...adapting strong nutritional habits can be a key factor in taking performance to elevated levels, impacting energy levels, stamina, and recovery for young athletes. On today's episode, former college basketball player and current sports nutritionist Kelsey Poulter shares her experience and expertise with us as we discuss the importance of nutrition to athletic performance, answer specific questions related to training, recovery, game preparation, and so much more as she shares information and practical advice for parents, coaches, and young athletes.

92. The Daily Juggle: Family Life and Youth Sports Oct 23, 2024

If you're a sports parent, and especially if you have multiple kids, you know what we're talking about. Today's youth sports culture is so consuming, it's a challenge to keep sports from dominating our family life. We want to do all the things to help our kids achieve their sports goals, but we also have family goals that are equally important (or maybe more important in the long run). How do we juggle it all? How do we ensure that our families aren't going in five different directions all the time, and missing out on simply being together? How do we ensure that our non-sports kids aren't constantly taking a back seat to the high-level athlete in the family? ON this episode, Jeff, Britt, and Brad (with 14 kids between them) discuss their own challenges in these areas including some tips and ideas that will help you come on on the other end of the sports journey with a healthy family dynamic.

91. Former NFL QB Nick Foles Oct 16, 2024

11-year NFL QB Nick Foles is our guest on this episode, sharing great insights from his sports story that began as a multi-sport athlete growing up in Texas to becoming the Super Bowl MVP for the Philadelphia Eagles. Foles discusses how he developed his abilities as a youth and high school player, how he handled disappointment and adversity in college including how close he game to quitting, how he handled being a backup in the NFL who rose to the occasion to lead his team when his number was called. He also talks about becoming a sports dad himself, sharing his thoughts on the challenges in youths sports today. Finally, Nick answers five fun, rapid-fire questions from Jeff that allow us to get to know him a little better. Nick is known for being one of the best, high character guys on and off the field, and you will be inspirited listening to him.

90. Helping Young Athletes Develop a BELIEF Mindset: Mental Performance Expert Dr Caroline Silby Oct 09, 2024

Renowned sports psychologist Dr Caroline Silby has spent the last few decades working with high performance athletes in a variety of sports, including several Olympic Gold Medalists. On this episode, she shares her expertise, techniques, and tools to help young athletes achieve BELIEF, the mental state that enables maximum performance in the biggest moments. The guys talk with her about how young athletes develop belief, how they regain it if lost, how parents can contribute to both increased and diminished belief. They also discuss when parents should consider having their kids work with a mental performance expert, how to find a qualified one, and many more aspects of developing the right mindset for your young athlete.

89. The BURNOUT Problem in Youth Sports Oct 02, 2024

The intensity of youth sports is increasing, and that's not debatable. Kids are playing more at younger ages - more practices, more tournaments, more games. More pressure to perform exists, and the expectations are higher than ever. As a result of these factors, the risk of burnout is also greater than ever. We've all heard the phrase "burnout," but what is it and what does it really look like? What are the factors that create burnout? What are the signs that my kid is experiencing it? And what steps can parents and coaches take to mitigate the risks of this happening? On this episode, the guys discuss the burnout issue in a comprehensive way, sharing from their personal experiences and from recent research It's easy to believe that burnout will never happen to your kid, but if you don't have a good understanding of the issues, you won't recognize it until it's too late.

88. NFL Coach Herm Edwards Sep 25, 2024

Former NFL player, Head Coach, College Head Coach and current ESPN NFL Analyst Herb Edwards guests on this episode, and his reputation as a guy with vast experience who always shoots straight with his opinions is evidenced as he talks with the guys. In addition to sharing his own youth sports story, including the impact of his parents who allowed Herm to steer his own ship, he also shares interesting stories from his time as an NFL coach, including a fascinating story about 9/11 as the new coach of the New York Jets. Coach Edwards also talks about his time coaching the Arizona State Sun Devils, discussing the transfer portal, NIL, and some advice for parents. Finally, Herm shares his philosophy on coaching that is applicable to coaches at all levels.

87. Volleyball Legend Kerri Walsh Jennings Sep 18, 2024

3x Gold Medalist Kerri Walsh Jennings joins the show, sharing her continued passion for volleyball (beach and indoor), and for the growth of women's sports. Kerri shares how her love for volleyball began at an early age, in the midst of playing multiple sports and loving the "free play" aspect of childhood sports that was strongly encouraged by her parents. She also shares her experiences and development as a club and high school player who was eventually recruited to play Indoor at Stanford, where she became a 4x All American, NCAA Player of the Year, and NCAA Champion. Kerri also shares what drew her from Indoor to Beach, discusses her thoughts on what makes a great teammate, shares her advice on playing both club AND school volleyball, and also talks about her 1440 organization. In addition, as a mom of three young athletes, Kerri discusses her approach to sports parenting.

86. 17-Year NFL Veteran QB Matt Schaub Sep 11, 2024

We welcome former NFL 2x Pro Bowl QB Matt Schaub to the show on this episode! Matt played for 17 yrs in the NFL, after a stellar college career at the University of Virginia including being the ACC Player of the Year in 2002 and the NFL Passing Yards Leader in 2009. Matt was a 3-sport star in high school, and as a current sports dad of a son and four daughters. Matt shares his youth sports story, and discusses today's youth sports culture, including his thoughts on specialization, and on parenting. He also talks about overcoming adversity throughout his sports career, and shares his thoughts about the importance of leadership development and which of his teammates he most admired for leadership during his NFL career.

85. Social Media and the Youth Sports Journey Sep 05, 2024

Does social media have a big potential impact on the youth sports journey? You bet it does. With teens averaging over 4 hours per day on social platforms, and 68% of pre-teens active on at least one social platform, we need to understand the impact on our young athletes. On this episode, we discuss the positive role social media can play in helping young athletes with motivation, skill development, key learnings, and recruiting. In addition, most of the discussion is focused on creating awareness for young athletes, parents, and coaches on the negative influence social media can have on the youth sports journey. Studies point to perfectionism, performance comparisons, body image issues, self promotion/absorption issues, bullying and much more that add even more pressure and stress on young athletes, contributing to anxiety, depression, and emotional withdrawal. Parents and coaches need to be aware of these issues, and be intentional with boundaries and/or guidance to help their young athletes pursue their goals in a healthy way.

84. Ernie Johnson, Jr Aug 28, 2024

On this episode, one of America's favorite and most respected sportscasters joins the guys and begins by sharing his thoughts about the upcoming final season of Inside the NBA, as well as a hilarious story involving Charles Barkley. EJ then opens up about his days as a walk-on first baseman for the Georgia Bulldogs, his experience being cut his sophomore year, and his thoughts on the current state of youth sports. In addition, EJ will inspire and challenge you as he shares his experience as a father of six, on "blackberry moments," and on the things that matter most in life. You will enjoy this episode and we hope you share it with others.

83. Matt & Leslee Holliday on Sports Parenting Aug 22, 2024

Former MLB Star Matt Holliday and his wife Leslee are raising their four kids in today's complex world of youth sports. Their oldest two boys shared their dad's passion for baseball, and their talent led the family into the crazy world of travel ball. As a senior in high school, Jackson became the first pick in the MLB draft. His brother, now a high school senior, looks to following a similar path. Their younger son and daughter had other passions, which Matt and Leslee were equally committed to supporting. In this episode, Matt and Leslee share their hearts for how they wanted to raise their kids, not just as athletes, but as high-character people. They share how they are navigating the craziness of sports and other activities to support their kid's dreams, but not at the expense of their marriage, their family life or their faith. You will be challenged and encouraged to hear Leslee's and Matt's hearts and wisdom as a sports mom and dad trying to get all of it right.

82. Baylor Head Coach Scott Drew Aug 14, 2024

We kick off Season 3 with a great conversation with Baylor Men's Head Basketball Coach Scott Drew, one of college basketball's most successful and most respected coaches. Coach Drew shares how his basketball playing days ended early in high school due to his size, but he pursued his passion for the game as a coach. He discusses the incredible influence his dad had on him, his coaching philosophy, how he stays balanced in the midst of the demands of big time college basketball, his approach to recruiting people who fit his program, and so much more. Coach Drew also shares about the role his faith plays in how he coaches and develops his players, and he shares his answers to five rapid-fire questions from Jeff. You may not be a Baylor fan before listening to this episode, but you will likely be after listening.

81. Season 2 Finale - Mailbag Questions from our Audience Jul 31, 2024

On this season's final episode, Jeff and Britt address a number of questions and comments from listeners covering a wide range of youth sports topics, including some controversial ones. The guys also share some of their favorite, most impactful moments from Season 2, including important advice from Falcons QB Kirk Cousins and Coach Tony Dungy.

This video is sponsored by Guardian Sports, the nations leading impact reducing soft-shell helmet cover engineered for impact reduction. For more visit guardiansports.com. This episode is also sponsored by Booster Enterprises Inc, the leading high school athletics fundraising partner. For more info, go to choosebooster.com

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80. Winning & Losing In Youth Sports: The Good, The Bad, & The Ugly Jul 24, 2024

If you're playing youth sports, you're experiencing winning and losing regularly. Some experience one more than the other, but over the course of time, we all experience both. As parents and coaches, how do we teach young athletes the value of responding properly to both? Do we even model the right responses, or are we also too caught up in the results? On this episode, Jeff, Britt, and Brad discuss why we all want to win, the positive aspects that result, while also talking about the positive aspects of losing (yes, there really are some). They also share their thoughts on the bad responses to both winning and losing, from arrogance to sour attitudes, from kids and parents alike. Finally, we've all seen ugly examples of really poor responses to both winning and losing and the guys call some of these out as a reminder to all of us to seize these opportunities to teach out young athletes to compete to win, to win with grace, and to respond to losing with the right attitude. This episode has something for everyone - don't miss it.

This video is sponsored by Guardian Sports, the nations leading impact reducing soft-shell helmet cover engineered for impact reduction. For more visit guardiansports.com. This episode is also sponsored by Booster Enterprises Inc, the leading high school athletics fundraising partner. For more info, go to choosebooster.com

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79. NBA Veteran Jamal Crawford Jul 17, 2024

Former NBA star Jamal Crawford is our guest on this episode, sharing his youth sports story of growing up with the game of basketball in Seattle. Jamal dove into a wide array of topics in this week's episode.

How did he develop his elite ball handling skills? How did his parents impact his journey? What was his recruiting process like?

He even shares the secret to how he won the NBA 6th Man award three times and which award meant more than any other. Finally, he gives his thoughts on the changes he would like to see with AAU, and how he is taking a different approach with coaching the athletes on his own team.

Don't miss this episode! Thanks for tuning in!

This video is sponsored by Guardian Sports, the nations leading impact reducing soft-shell helmet cover engineered for impact reduction. For more visit guardiansports.com. This episode is also sponsored by Booster Enterprises Inc, the leading high school athletics fundraising partner. For more info, go to choosebooster.com

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78. Dr. Abigail Feder & Guardian Sports: The Concussion Problem in Youth Sports Jul 10, 2024

On today's episode, Brad and Britt talk to Dr Abigail Federer, a leading sports concussion specialist at Northside Hospital in Atlanta, shares her expertise and experience treating both male and female young athletes with concussion injuries. Brad introduces the subject by discussing his son's story of suffering concussions while playing three different sports, including the concerns shared by many parents of young athletes. Dr Feder dispels some of the myths and outdated treatment protocols for concussed athletes, discusses common symptoms and markers, and informs parents on what to do if they suspect their child may have a concussion. Immediately following Dr Feder's segment, the guys discuss concussion prevention with the founder of Guardian Sports, who provide innovative safety equipment recently approved by the NFL, and currently being used by every NFL team and many NCAA programs. They share the benefits of Guardian caps, along with the proven data, that is transforming head safety for football players of all ages.

This episode is sponsored by Guardian Sports, the nations leading impact reducing soft-shell helmet cover engineered for impact reduction. For more visit guardiansports.com

77. Benjamin Watson Jul 03, 2024

Super Bowl Champion Tight End Ben Watson is our guest on this week's episode. Not only was Ben a 2nd Team All-SEC player at the University of Georgia and a first round pick in the NFL draft, Ben also had an outstanding 15 yearr career in the NFL, playing for the Patriots, Browns, Saints, and Ravens. In addition to his on-field success, Ben has always been known as a man of strong character, as evidenced by his being awarded the Bart Starr Award in 2018. During our conversation, Ben shares his youth sports story growing up in South Carolina, his passion for soccer as a youngster, how he developed as a football player, and his outlook on college football as an SEC Network analyst. We also heard some great stories from his career including interesting insights from his time catching passes from Tom Brady and Drew Brees. Finally, he shares the many lessons he learned from his parents and as a parent of 7, including on character and leadership. Thanks for listening!

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76. Pure Athlete: The Toxic Side Of Youth Sports Jun 26, 2024

On this week's episode, the guys discuss toxic behavior and culture in youth sports. While we all love youth athletics, if you've been involved for any length of time you have likely encountered toxic parents. These parents can be disruptive, yelling inappropriate comments or remaining silent when they should address bad behavior. We've even experienced or heard stories of toxic coaches who try to win at all costs, play their own kids at the best positions, or require contracts to play on a 10u team. We'll also jump into some discussions about toxic teammate behavior and the overall toxicity level of the current youth sports culture.

Thanks for tuning in!

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75. Reacting to Brady/Federer Speeches - A Blueprint for Young Athletes Jun 19, 2024

This week, Jeff, Britt, and Brad unpack some of the most important moments from the recent speeches given by Tom Brady and Roger Federer, two of the best and most admired athletes of all time, who share key lessons and insights from their inspirational journeys.

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74. NHL Star Chris Pronger Jun 12, 2024

This week we’re excited to have Hall of Famer, Stanley Cup Champion, 2x Olympic Gold Medalist & NHL MVP….former professional hockey defenseman, Chris Pronger! Considered one of the all-time great defenseman, Chris stopped by the pod to share some of the wisdom he gained on the way to the top of hockey. He didn't hesitate to show us the intensity and passion he has for the game and youth sports. It left us feeling inspired and motivated, and we're sure you'll feel the same way. Thanks for tuning in this week!

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73. Kirk Cousins (Pt. 2): LIVE from Atlanta Jun 05, 2024

New Falcons QB Kirk Cousins is our guest in Part 2 from this month's Pure Athlete Live event in front of 1500+ athletes, parents, and coaches in Atlanta. Kirk shares his youth sports story, lessons learned from his dad, how he overcame a season-ending injury in the first game of his junior year in high school, his college experience, the disappointment of being taken in the 4th round of the NFL draft, and even the role his faith played in each of those situations. Kirk's authenticity and wisdom is both insightful and inspiring, so tune in, and don't forget to catch Part 1 if you missed it!

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72. Kirk Cousins (Pt. 1): LIVE from Atlanta May 29, 2024

New Falcons QB Kirk Cousins is our guest in Part 1 from this month's Pure Athlete Live event in front of 1500+ athletes, parents, and coaches in Atlanta. In this episode, Kirk shares his youth sports story, lessons learned from his dad, how he overcame a season-ending injury in the first game of his junior year in high school, his college experience, the disappointment of being taken in the 4th round of the NFL draft, and the role his faith played in each of those situations. Kirk's authenticity and wisdom is both insightful and inspiring, and we hope you'll tune into Part 2, dropping on June 5!

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71. Nicole Lyon: Mental Health for Young Athletes May 22, 2024

For Mental Health Awareness Month, we're welcoming Nicole Lyon, a mental health expert, former elite college swimmer, and co-owner of Roots Therapy in Atlanta. Not only does Nicole have experience specializing in sports performance and mental health for young athletes, she's also an NCAA Champion swimmer from the University of Georgia, who participated in her first Olympic Trials at the age of 14.

Nicole's experience in both fields gives her the knowledge to speak on facing immense pressure as an athlete, overcoming the mental and physical challenges of injuries, dealing with sports-related depression, and much more!

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70. NFL Coach Tony Dungy May 15, 2024

Today we are thrilled to have one of America’s most admired and respected sports figures, Coach Tony Dungy on the show! Coach Dungy is a Hall of Famer, Super Bowl winner as a player AND coach, two-time coach of the year and best-selling author. This accomplished legend stops by to share his personal story as well as many stories from his days as a player and coach, weaving in great insights for parents, coaches, and players.

We're so excited to have a true icon and role model on the show today, so buckle up for the wisdom and encouragement of Coach Tony Dungy!

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Grab tickets to our live show featuring Kirk Cousins!

https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/pure-athlete-live/pa-live-atlanta

69. Pure Athlete: Mother's Day Special May 08, 2024

On this special Mother's Day episode, Catie Francoeur, Kay Lee, and Kathie Williams join their husbands to share their perspectives on being sports moms. They discuss the roles they play in supporting and encouraging their kids, including helping them maintain a balance between sports and other important aspects of their lives. They also share how they are able to encourage family priorities and even out their husbands' sometimes overly intense and competitive nature.

There are many versions of sports moms across America; some are super intense on game day and others just want to help their kids enjoy the ride, but in all cases, we want to honor all they do to strengthen their kids, their husbands, and their families. Happy Mother's Day!

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Live from Atlanta on May 20th

68. Pure Athlete: Parenting On Game Day May 01, 2024

It's finally game day and a chance to pay off all of those hard hours of work and practice. A day meant for relaxation and having fun with other parents as we watch our athletes compete oftentimes morphs into something entirely different.

For those of us who have experienced it, we know there are three major components to game day for parents: before the game, during the game, and after the game. Each of these aspects comes with their own challenges that can be both enjoyable and stressful. There are times we're able to help our young athletes and other times when we're just making it harder for them; so how can we know when we're doing our part?

Jeff, Britt, and Brad sit down to discuss the best and most challenging parts of being a parent on game day, encouraging parents and athletes to take stock of their own approach while being intentional at making the most of this sacred day in sports.

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Grab tickets to our live event in Atlanta featuring Kirk Cousins! May 20th at 6:30 pm!

https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/pure-athlete-live/pa-live-atlanta

67. Lacrosse Legend Paul Rabil Apr 24, 2024

Lacrosse legend Paul Rabil stops by the pod today to talk about his career, youth sports, and the future of the game. From starting out in Major League Lacrosse to creating the Premiere Lacrosse League, Paul's fingerprints are all over the lax world.

This icon of the game graciously offers his insight and advice into lacrosse, coaching, specialization at a young age and much more. So stick around as one of the lacrosse GOATs gives us a behind-the-scenes look into his career and what it takes to become successful on and off the field. Thanks for tuning in!

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66. U.S. Women's Soccer Star Heather Mitts Apr 17, 2024

Former professional soccer player and 3-time Olympic gold medalist Heather Mitts sits down with the guys in this week's episode! Heather shares her inspirational path from youth sports to the Olympic stage, reflecting on the pivotal moments and people that impacted her career. How valuable is versatility on the field? Should I prioritize winning or development? From these questions to many more, Heather's advice will help you as you find your own path whether you're an athlete or a parent.

Heather's simple message resonates strongly in an oftentimes cloudy youth sports environment: embrace failure, follow your passions, and above all, find joy in your sports journey. Don't miss this enriching and insightful discussion with Heather Mitts!

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65. Pure Athlete: What's Great About Youth Sports Apr 10, 2024

Join Jeff, Britt, and Brad as we celebrate all that is GREAT about youth sports in this week's episode! From the lasting memories to the valuable bonds that are formed, youth sports have long been an integral part of being an athlete and a parent. We dig into some of the valuable lessons and important people an athlete will encounter along their journey. We also cover why there is simply no replacement for the mental and physical rewards that youth sports offers to its athletes and the parents guiding them through this amazing experience. From favorite memories to lasting regrets to essential pump-up music, we're giving youth sports the honor it deserves!

You'll soon grow to love the beautiful world of youth sports, so join us as we discuss why we believe it to be such a critical experience.

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64. Adam Wainwright Apr 03, 2024

Join us today as we welcome former MLB All-Star pitcher and World Series Champion, Adam Wainwright! Adam takes us on a journey through his upbringing in the game of baseball, detailing the path that led him to become a dominant force on the mound, amassing 200 career wins with the St. Louis Cardinals. Adam also treats us to a glimpse into his new world in country music, including what it was like to grace the stage at the iconic Grand Ole Opry.

Adam digs into everything from his favorite coaches to his best advice for young pitchers and their parents. He chats to the guys about navigating adversity and even sheds some light on how nerves can influence both your baseball pitch and vocal pitch. Adam Wainwright is bringing the heat today, so it's not one you want to swing and miss!

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63. Jesse Cole: Owner of the Savannah Bananas Mar 27, 2024

Join us today as the guys chat with Jesse Cole, the mastermind behind the Savannah Bananas phenomenon. With the mantra "Fans first. Entertain always," Cole has revolutionized the game of baseball by drawing inspiration not only from legends on the diamond, but from iconic figures like P.T. Barnum and Walt Disney. Under his innovative leadership, the Bananas have transformed from a simple summer collegiate team into a household name, boasting over 15 million social media followers and a staggering 2 million-person ticket waitlist.

So tune in today to discover the history of the Bananas, the creation of Banana Ball, and even what it takes to become a Banana yourself as we dive deep into the unique and wacky world of Jesse Cole!

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62. Dr. Joel Seedman: High Performance Training for Young Athletes Mar 20, 2024

Today, we're joined by Dr. Joel Seedman, a renowned doctor of kinesiology and an elite exercise trainer. With a client roster featuring top-tier athletes like Chris Carson, Younghoe Koo, and Taylor Heinicke, Dr. Seedman brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. From professional athletes to aspiring young talents, his expertise spans across all ages and sports.

In this episode, Dr. Seedman shares his insights on topics like movement, flexibility, posture, and even the effects of barefoot training. He discusses some key questions including the appropriate age to begin weight training, how to prevent injuries, the importance of proper technique, and the benefits of sport-specific movements. So grab a friend and tune in to gain some valuable insights from the unique perspective of Dr. Seedman!

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Support the pod and grab some Pure Athlete Merch until Friday, March 22! Thanks so much for listening!

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61. Ryan Howard Mar 13, 2024

Join us on today's episode as we sit down with former MVP and World Series Champion first baseman, Ryan Howard. Ryan takes us on a journey that began playing numerous sports as a kid in St Louis and continued all the way through his rapid ascent to stardom with the Philadelphia Phillies, sharing insights on becoming the quickest player in history to hit 100 and 200 home runs. He shares the secrets behind his powerful swing development from a young age, as well as the invaluable advice he received from none other than Barry Bonds. Plus, discover Ryan's favorite ballpark, his favorite coach, and much more as we delve into the remarkable career of one of baseball's most prolific hitters.

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60. Clark Kellogg Mar 06, 2024

Get ready to kick off March Madness in style as we welcome one of the foremost voices of the game, Clark Kellogg! Join Clark and the guys as he shares his wisdom on March Madness and the current landscape of college basketball while reflecting on his own journey from the courts of Ohio State to first-round pick for the Indiana Pacers. With over three decades of commentary experience, Clark brings insights and advice from the front lines of the sport and offers his own unique perspective as a sports parent of three Division One athletes. What does the future of college sports look like? How do we keep sports fun for our kids? What's it like working with Charles Barkley? Don't miss the chance to hear all of this and more from one of the most respected voices in college basketball as you prep for the madness of March!

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59. Pure Athlete: The Wonderful, Wacky, Messed-Up World of Travel Sports Feb 28, 2024

Today, join us as we dive deep into the world of travel sports. While travel has long been a crucial aspect of a young athlete's journey, it has slowly become an increasingly draining and expensive endeavor. How much is too much? What’s the right age to get started? What's the true cost? Are we doing it for our children or ourselves? Many athletes and parents are adamant that travel is one of the best parts of the youth sports experience— so let's keep it that way!

We're delving into all of these pressing questions and even reading through some listener comments as we guide you through the exhilarating yet rapidly evolving world of travel sports.

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58. Rece Davis Feb 21, 2024

Today we are thrilled to welcome ESPN College Gameday host and one of the most recognizable voices in college sports, Rece Davis! With more than 30 years of experience covering college athletics and a vast amount of insight from his own journey as a sports parent (his son played baseball at Princeton and Duke, captaining both teams), Rece offers a fascinating perspective on the modern age of youth sports that will leave you better equipped for the road ahead. So, join us as we dive into discussions about broadcasting, parenting, Rece’s favorite college campuses, and much more.

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57. Matt Ryan Feb 15, 2024

Join us as we speak with NFL MVP and four-time Pro Bowler, Matt Ryan! Not only does he bring his perspective as a legend on the field, but also his experience as a CBS Analyst and father of three kids in youth sports. We're diving deep into Matt's wild ride through the world of sports, from his early days of playing defensive end to becoming a top NFL quarterback!

Ever wondered what the game-day routine of an MVP looks like? Where would he have drafted himself if he was the Falcons' GM? Maybe you're curious about some behind-the-scenes Super Bowl scoop or what he thinks of modern youth coaches? Well, hang tight, because Matt talks about all of that and more.

Whether you're an NFL fanatic, rep the Falcons, or just love sports, this one's for you! So grab a seat and soak up some wisdom from one of the greats!

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56. Danny Wuerffel Feb 07, 2024

Today we’ve got Heisman Trophy and National Championship-winning quarterback Danny Wuerffel! Danny joins us to share a glimpse into the early days of his sports career and how it impacted his success later on, whether as quarterback of the Florida Gators or on the pickleball court. So tune in to hear from one of the greatest players college football has ever seen for a behind the scenes look at playing for Steve Spurrier and some life lessons that will change the way you approach your own career. You don’t want to miss it!

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55. Matt Olson: LIVE from Atlanta Jan 31, 2024

MLB All-Star and 2023 Home Runs Leader, Matt Olson, steps up to the plate in part two of our live event from Peachtree Corners, GA. Joined by Jeff, Britt, Brad, and an audience of approximately 1000 people, Matt delves into the insights of his inspiring career from youth sports to stardom. From his early days of shooting hoops, to walking in the footsteps of familiar legends at Parkview High, and ultimately reaching the pinnacle of his sport, his journey is sure to inspire you. Don't miss this chance to hear one of the world's most prolific hitters give valuable advice and even some behind the scenes info as he answers questions from the live audience!

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54. Pure Athlete: LIVE from Atlanta Jan 25, 2024

More than 1000 parents, coaches, and young athletes came together to chat about the hottest topics in youth sports at our first ever Pure Athlete Live event in Peachtree Corners, GA. In Part 1, we're breaking down some of these key discussions and tackling some youth sports questions from our live audience.

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53. Greg Maddux Jan 18, 2024

Join Hall of Fame pitcher Greg Maddux as he sits down with the guys to delve into his legendary baseball career. Maddux shares valuable insights ranging from arm care to pitching philosophy that played a crucial role in propelling him to the status of an all-time great. He also discusses some of the toughest batters he faced and reveals his favorite pitchers in today’s game. From his humble beginnings in little league to his well-deserved induction into Cooperstown, Maddux unveils his immense knowledge of baseball and sports.

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52. Alex Guerrero: Co-Founder of TB12 on Performance Training & Recovery Jan 11, 2024

NFL great Tom Brady credits Alex Guerrero, his personal trainer, for being a huge part of his career achievements and longevity. As this week's guest, Alex shares some of his approaches to help athletes recover quickly and maximize performance, as well as his thoughts on what led to Tom becoming the NFL GOAT. Tune in to improve your own health and longevity in athletics while getting a behind the scenes look at the best NFL career of all time!

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51. Pure Athlete: Best of 2023 Dec 27, 2023

The Pure Athlete Podcast welcomed Dabo Swinney, David Pollack, Carli Lloyd, Austin Ekeler, Julie Foudy, Chipper Jones, Dan Orlovsky, and many more to the show in 2023. Jeff, Britt, and Brad sit down to look back at some of their favorite moments from the past year and to revisit some of the lasting insights and lessons.

50. The Changing State of College Sports Dec 21, 2023

Today, ESPN's Matt Stinchcomb joins the guys to dive into the changing landscape of college sports, particularly the economic engine of it all: college football. Matt brings a deep knowledge, thoughtful analysis, and reasoned perspective as we talk about the current and future state of the sport. We'll dive into topics such as NIL, the transfer portal, super conferences, recruiting, and much more. These new issues will significantly impact the journey that young athletes (high school and younger) across the country will have to travel to reach their dreams.

49. Dr. Neeru Jayanthi: Youth Sports Expert on Specialization Dec 13, 2023

Joining us today is one of the world’s leading researchers and experts on injury prevention. Dr. Neeru Jayanthi, the Director of Emory Sports Medicine and Research, chats with the guys about healthy training models and sport specialization for young athletes. Dr. Jayanthi has been on HBO’s Real Sports, ESPN, ABC, NBC, CBS, while also working with MLB, NFL, US Soccer, ATP/WTA Tennis, among others. We discuss his research on thousands of young athletes on topics such as:

- high intensity sports impact on young athlete bodies

-research results on risk-rewards of early age sport specialization

-injury propensity for male vs female athletes

-load management advice by age

-benefits of multiple sport playing

-benefits of "free-play" sports activities

-benefits of multi-sport participation and breaks

48. Taylor Twellman Dec 06, 2023

Former MLS star and current MLS TV Analyst Taylor Twellman shares his youth sports story as a multi-sport athlete who played both baseball and soccer in college before going all-in on soccer. Taylor had a prolific soccer career as a 2x Golden Boot winner and MLS MVP. He shares some strong opinions about American soccer, our current youth sports cullture, advice for parents, and advice for coaches.

47. Chase Elliott Nov 29, 2023

NASCAR driver Chase Elliott joins us as we finally break into motorsports on this week's episode. Chase shares the road he has travelled to get to where he is today, from racing go-carts at 6 yrs old to racing full-size cars at 13. He shares insights learned throughout his journey, talking about the influence of his parents, what it takes to succeed in his sport, how he deals with pressure and adversity, and much more.

46. Pure Athlete: Coaching Youth Sports Nov 22, 2023

Should parents coach their kids and if so, what’s the right approach? How/when should parents engage with coaches when things aren’t going well for their kid? Should winning be a goal when coaching young kids? Jeff Francoeur, Britt Lee, and Brad Williams dive into these topics and more on this episode.

45. Kelley Cain Nov 16, 2023

Today’s guest is former WNBA player and first round pick Kelley Cain. Kelley shares her story of winning four state championships in high school as a USA Today, McDonalds, and Parade All American. Her high school success led her to a great college career as a Tennessee Volunteer under legendary coach Pat Summit. Kelley shares insights from her journey including how being a soccer goalie during her early years benefitted her basketball, how she had to have some difficult conversations with her dad about needing him to be a parent more than a coach, and what made Coach Summitt so successful as a leader.

44. Chris Spatola Nov 08, 2023

In recognition of Veterans Day, our guest this week is ESPN/Sirius XM college basketball analyst Chris Spatola. Chris was a 4 yr starter on ARMY’s basketball team, who upon graduation from West Point, served our country as an Army officer from 2002 - 2007. As the son of a coach, Chris shares his youth/high school sports story, how he achieved his dream of playing D1 ball, what he learned as an assistant coach at Duke University, and some interesting perspective from being the son-in-law of Coach K.

43. Pure Athlete: Achieving Your Goals Nov 02, 2023

The guys talk to young athletes and parents about what it takes to set and achieve big sports goals, including when and how to set goals, how to work towards your goal, whether grit can be developed, how parents should respond when kids aren't working hard enough, and much more.

42. Brian Harman Oct 25, 2023

The guys talk to 2023 Open Champion and U.S. Ryder Cup player Brian Harman. Brian shares his youth sports story that surprisingly began with a love of baseball that ultimately led to his college golf days at UGA. He also shares his Ryder Cup experience, how he’s worked at controlling his emotions on the course, and so much more.

41. Julie Foudy Oct 19, 2023

The guys spend time with U.S. women’s soccer Hall of Famer Julie Foudy, winner of two Olympic Gold Medals and two World Cup Championships. Julie shares her sports story from youth sports to a long, decorated soccer career, and also discusses her thoughts as a women’s sports advocate, as the founder of a girls sports leadership academy, and as a real sports mom to a teenage boy and girl.

40. Danny Woodhead Oct 12, 2023

The guys talk a little playoff baseball before welcoming 9-yr NFL running back Danny Woodhead to the show. Danny shares his inspiring story of grit and belief, overcoming the naysayers in high school, college, and all the way to the NFL.

39. Brandon Guyer: Mental Strength Coach Oct 05, 2023

The guys talk to former MLB player Brandon Guyer, who is a mental performance coach with the Los Angeles Angels and the University of Virginia Baseball team, among others. Brandon shares his expertise and tools to help young athletes develop a strong mindset and mental approach to their sport and to life.

38. PA Mailbag: Jeff Francoeur, Britt Lee, Brad Williams Sep 28, 2023

Jeff, Britt, and Brad discuss comments and questions sent in by listeners, covering topics such as year-round sports, specialization, discovering your kids’ passion, keeping sports fun, and much more.

37. Mark DeRosa Sep 21, 2023

The guys sit down with 15-year MLB veteran and manager of Team USA in the 2023 World Baseball Classic, Mark DeRosa. They discuss family, friends, and what it was like to play multiple sports at an Ivy League University!

36. Marty Smith Sep 13, 2023

In today's episode, the guys talk with one of ESPN’s most popular personalities and co-host of the Marty and McGee show, Marty Smith.

35. Austin Ekeler Sep 07, 2023

Los Angeles Chargers star running back Austin Ekeler sits down with the guys this week. They talk all things youth sports, from youth football practices leading all the way to his NFL debut. He even convinces everyone why we should draft him in fantasy leagues this season!

34. Carson Wentz Aug 31, 2023

Britt and Brad sit down with 7-year NFL Quarterback and 2017 Super Bowl Champion with the Philadelphia Eagles, Carson Wentz. They discuss his North Dakota youth sports journey, including his high school and college football successes, along with his foundation, Audience of One.

33. Angie Asche: Sports Nutritionist Aug 24, 2023

The guys sit down with well-known sports dietician and Founder of Eleat Sports Nutrition, Angie Asche. They cover a wide array of topics, including healthy habits for athletes, fueling through food, what to eat on a long tournament day, the best ways to hydrate, and more.

32. Dabo Swinney Aug 17, 2023

We hear from 2x National Champion and 3x College Football Coach of the Year, Clemson Head Football Coach Dabo Swinney in our Season 2 Premiere. Coach Swinney talks about his youth sports journey, parenting his own kids, and his unique approach to coaching in the current state of college football.

31. Pure Athlete: Season 1 Recap Jul 13, 2023

On our final episode of Season 1, the guy recap some of the most important moments, address some key questions from members of our audience, and share a sneak peek into Season 2.

30. Ryan Succop Jul 06, 2023

In our 30th episode, the guys talk with Super Bowl champion and 14 year NFL kicker Ryan Succop. Ryan shares his youth sports story as a soccer, baseball, and basketball player, as well as insights on handling pressure, what made Tom Brady such a great teammate, and so much more.

29. Shane Battier Jun 21, 2023

The guys talk to Duke basketball legend and 14 yr NBA player Shane Battier. Shane shares his youth sports story becoming Michigan’s Mr Basketball, his unique college recruiting approach, how he became known as one of the best defenders and teammates in basketball, his on-court battles with Kobe Bryant, and other important insights to help young athletes, parents, and coaches.

28. Chipper Jones Jun 08, 2023

The guys have a an engaging conversation with Atlanta Braves legend and MLB Hall of Famer Chipper Jones, one of the best and smartest hitters of all time. Chipper shares his youth sports story and great insights for young athletes and hitters of all levels.

27. Pure Athlete: Sportsmanship Jun 01, 2023

The guys have a great conversation about Sportsmanship in Youth Sports, discussing what Sportsmanship is (and isn’t), why it matters, and how parents and coaches teach it to young athletes.

26. Cullen Jones May 25, 2023

The guys have a great conversation with Olympic swimmer Cullen Jones, winner of two Gold and two Silver medals. Cullen is the first African-American swimmer to hold a world record, and is a very positive, insightful athlete with an inspiring story and some great insights around pursuing your passion, leveraging sports to prepare for life, handling pressure, and so much more. Don’t miss this episode.

25. Dr. Mark Kovacs: Sports and Performance Science Expert May 17, 2023

The guys talk talk to sports and performance science expert, Dr. Mark Kovacs, who works with numerous pro athletes and teams and is the former Director of the Gatorade Sports Science Institute. Mark shares important and relevant information on strength and conditioning, nutrition, hydration, injury prevention and other topics to help young athletes maximize performance in the healthiest way possible.

24. Roman Harper May 05, 2023

The guys talk to SEC network analyst and New Orleans Saints pro bowl and super bowl champ safety Roman Harper. Roman shares his youth sports story growing up in Prattville, Alabama to the University of Alabama, as well as insights he learned along the way to a stellar NFL career with the Saints and Carolina Panthers.

23. Dan Orlovsky Apr 27, 2023

This episode features ESPN pro football analyst and 12-yr NFL quarterback Dan Orlovsky. Dan shares his youth sports journey to UConn and the NFL, along with great insights he learned along the way and is applying as a sports dad to his four kids.

22. Tom Glavine Apr 18, 2023

The guys talk to Hall of Fame pitcher Tom Glavine, whose youth sports story includes being drafted in the MLB and NHL the same week. In addition, Tom shares great insights from his travel ball playing days in baseball and hockey, as well as from his days as a sports parent and coach.

21. Carli Lloyd Mar 23, 2023

From her high school soccer team to 2x World Cup champion and 2x Olympic Gold Medalist, soccer legend Carli Lloyd joins us to talk all things youth sports - from her own story to advice for coaches and young athletes.

20. PA Mailbag: Jeff Francoeur, Britt Lee, Brad Williams Mar 16, 2023

“What age should my kid begin to specialize in a sport?” “How do I best coach a team with a wide array of skill levels?” “How do I use lessons in sports to teach lessons in life?” In our 20th episode, these, among others, are some of the questions the guys team up to answer in our first ever Pure Athlete Mailbag!

19. John Smoltz Mar 09, 2023

The guys talk to Hall of Fame pitcher and MLB broadcaster John Smoltz. In addition to sharing his youth sports story, Smoltzie shares great insights for young athletes, parents, and coaches, as well as valuable baseball-specific advice for young pitchers.

18. Dr. Mondo: Mental Coach and Wellness Expert Mar 02, 2023

Our guest is well-known sports psychologist and mental wellness expert Dr. Armando González. Dr. Mondo works with numerous pro athletes such as Dansby Swanson, Lindsey Vonn, Charles Goodwin, Mallory Pugh, among others. Our discussion with him explores the cultural challenges our young people are facing, and he shares great insights and thoughts for young athletes, parents, and coaches to help maximize mental performance and prioritize overall mental wellness.

17. Rowdy Gaines Feb 23, 2023

The guys interview Rowdy Gaines, a 3x Olympic gold medalist, 11x world record holder, 8x NCAA Champion, International swimming hall-of-famer, and sports media’s “voice of swimming” for the last 30 years. In this episode, Rowdy recalls his youth sports experiences; from being cut from high school sports teams to standing on the Olympic podium.

16. Dell Curry Feb 09, 2023

NBA shooting great Dell Curry, father to Steph, Seth, and Sydel, shares stories from his own playing days, as well as parenting insights learned from helping his kids navigate their own journeys in sports and in life.

15. JT Realmuto Feb 02, 2023

Philadelphia Phillies All-Star catcher JT Realmuto shares his youth sports story as a multi-sport athlete, discussing the challenges and highlights along his journey to the big leagues.

14. Jessica Mendoza Jan 25, 2023

Step into the batter's box with National Softball Hall of Fame inductee Jessica Mendoza. Lessons learned growing up and growing into a four-time Collegiate All American, two-time Olympic Medal winner, and a pretty fantastic mom.

13. David Pollack Jan 19, 2023

ESPN College Football Analyst David Pollack shares insights from his youth sports journey that led him to become a 3x All American defensive end for the University of Georgia and a first round draft pick of the Cincinnati Bengals.

12. Pure Athlete: Best of 2022 Jan 12, 2023

At the beginning of a new year, Jeff, Britt, and Brad reflect on some of their favorite moments from interviews in 2022, discussing important takeaways and lessons for young athletes, and parents, and coaches. They also look ahead to what's to come in 2023.

11. Jay Bilas Jan 05, 2023

Former Duke star and current ESPN College Basketball Analyst Jay Bilas shares his youth sports story and discusses coaching, life lessons from sports, sports parenting, and his book Toughness among other relevant youth sports topics.

10. John Isner Dec 13, 2022

Ranked as high as #8 in the world, John Isner shares his story of choosing tennis over basketball, his work ethic to achieve his goal of playing college tennis and beyond, and what sports have taught him about life.

9. Dansby Swanson Dec 06, 2022

Dansby Swanson shares his youth sports story, including his love of basketball and baseball, and the origins of his focus on winning that led him to become a College World Series and MLB World Series champion.

8. Inky Johnson Nov 29, 2022

Future first-round NFL draft pick, Inky Johnson’s life changed forever with a single tackle at the University of Tennessee. A ruptured artery left his right arm paralyzed, but he now is in high demand as a professional speaker, sharing his story of faith, determination, overcoming adversity, and character development to professional, college, and youth sports teams and athletes. Don’t miss this inspiring episode.

7. Matt Stinchcomb Nov 22, 2022

A College Football Hall of Famer and NFL first round draft pick, Matt Stinchcomb shares his story - from a great community youth sports experience to the University of Georgia to the NFL.

6. Misty May Treanor Nov 15, 2022

One of the greatest volleyball players of all time, Misty May Treanor shares her youth sports story, including important lessons and experiences she learned on the road to becoming a 3x Olympic Gold Medalist.

5. Bailey Moody Nov 08, 2022

A childhood cancer survivor, Bailey Moody shares her inspiring story of grit and commitment to pursue her love of basketball, all the way to a bronze medal in the 2021 Tokyo Paralympic Games and two wheelchair basketball national championships at the University of Alabama.

4. Austin Riley Nov 01, 2022

The son of an NFL punter, Austin Riley grew up playing multiple sports while chasing his dream of playing major league baseball. In this episode, Austin shares his story of grit and hard work, on his way to becoming a first round draft pick and All-Star third baseman for the Atlanta Braves.

3. Jason Campbell Oct 25, 2022

Quarterback Jason Campbell shares his youth sports story and its impact on his development as a player and as a person, from his Taylorsville, MS high school to SEC Player of the Year at Auburn University to first-round draft pick of the Washington Redskins and a 9-year NFL career.

2. Jeff Francoeur Oct 20, 2022

Jeff Francoeur shares his youth sports experiences, including some of his best memories, his biggest life lessons, and how he and his parents navigated the journey.

1. Pure Athlete: Our Story Oct 18, 2022

In our debut episode, Jeff Francoeur interviews Pure Athlete co-founders Britt Lee and Brad Williams about the story behind Pure Athlete and how it evolved - from an idea, to a book, to a brand. In addition, they will discuss the content Pure Athlete will be sharing to inform and inspire young athletes, parents, and coaches to help them successfully navigate their youth sports journeys.

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