In this episode of the Strong Youth Project Podcast, host Jennings Genho talks with Dr. Melani Kelly, an athletic trainer and assistant professor at Utah Valley University. Dr. Kelly specializes in exertional heat stroke and shares vital knowledge on how to identify, prevent, and respond to heat illness in youth sports.From practical tips for parents and coaches to real-life anecdotes, this episode delivers powerful insights to help keep young athletes safe during hot weather training and competition.Topics Covered:- What is heat illness? Definitions and types- Signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion vs. heat stroke- Risk factors and prevention strategies- Emergency response and treatment- Role of coaches, parents, and athletic trainersResources mentioned:- NATA Position Statement on Exertional Heat Illnesses: https://www.nata.org/sites/default/files/externalheatillnesses.pdf - Utah High School Activities Association Heat Guidelines: https://uhsaa.org/Publications/Handbook/Handbook.pdf- Wet Bulb Globe Temperature Tracker: https://www.weather.gov/tsa/wbgtTimestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to the Strong Youth Project01:02 - Meet Dr. Melanie Kelly02:00 - Dr. Kelly’s heat illness research background02:55 - What is thermoregulation?04:00 - Types of heat illnesses explained07:00 - The myth of the heat illness "continuum"09:00 - Risk factors: Environment, hydration, and fitness11:00 - The danger of overtraining and lack of acclimatization14:00 - Why prevention matters most16:30 - The coach’s role in recognizing heat illness18:00 - Water breaks & hydration guidelines20:30 - Misconceptions about training when sick22:00 - How to recognize heat stroke symptoms23:40 - Why rectal thermometers are the gold standard25:00 - Proper cooling methods: Cold water immersion & alternatives27:40 - Resource challenges in youth sports30:00 - Emergency Action Plans: What parents should ask33:00 - Long-term effects and heat tolerance testing35:00 - Parent responsibilities for athlete safety38:00 - Final advice: “Cool first, transport second”39:32 - Outro