Steve Magness x Matt Dixon on joy, resilience, and what actually creates long-term success in young athletes

Too many conversations about youth sports focus on podiums, rankings, and early success. But the real power of sport isn't medals— it's the humans our kids become along the way.

In this special conversation, performance experts Steve Magness and Matt Dixon break down what truly matters in youth athletics: joy, resilience, confidence, identity, and the pathways that create long-term success. They bust myths around early specialization, explore what actually predicts high-level performance, and offer practical guidance for parents, coaches, and athletes at every stage.

Whether your child loves sport for fun or dreams of competing at the highest levels, this episode gives you the roadmap to support their growth—as athletes and as people.

Purple Patch and Episode Resources

Steve Magness Books:

https://www.stevemagness.com/wintheinside/

https://www.stevemagness.com/do-hard-things/

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