🎙️ Episode Spotlight: Jarren Duran & The Clubhouse

In this episode, hosts Kirk Bowyer and Ben Russell dive into the buzzworthy Netflix documentary The Clubhouse, which takes viewers behind the curtain of the Boston Red Sox clubhouse.

Their focus? Episode 4, featuring rising star Jarren Duran, who opens up about his journey through sport and baseball. From the pressures of performance to the powerful influence of his father, Duran’s story shines a light on what it really means to “get better” — and the expectations young athletes face both on and off the field.

This conversation is a must-listen for parents navigating the complex world of youth sports, offering insights into the delicate balance between encouragement and pressure, and the crucial role parents play in shaping a child’s sporting experience.

⚠️ Content note: This episode includes discussions around mental health, which some listeners may find triggering.

💡 If you’re enjoying the podcast, don’t forget to leave us a review — it helps us reach more listeners like you!

👉 Learn more about Mini Athletics at www.miniathletics.com.

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In this episode of The Sports Parenting Playbook, we sit down with Coach Ballgame (James Lowe)—a coach known for his infectious energy, creative approach, and deep love for baseball.

Together, we explore:

• ⚾ Engaging Coaching: How James brings fun, music, and personality to every practice and game.
• ❤️ Passion for Baseball: Why keeping the sport playful and accessible matters more than stats.
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Sports Parenting Advice: Practical tips for parents to support their young athletes without pressure.
• 🌟 The Sandlot Tours Origin Story: The incredible moment when a stranger’s $20,000 donation sparked a nationwide movement.

Coach Ballgame’s journey is a reminder that sports are about joy, community, and lifelong memories—not just wins and losses.

• Follow Coach Ballgame on social media: @coachballgame
• Learn more about Mini Athletics: www.miniathletics.com
• Check out upcoming Sandlot Tour events near you: https://www.coachballgame.com/

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Kirk and Ben discuss how the kids cartoon Bluey inspires movement & they take on a FUN challenge which you can try at home. There are many episodes of Bluey that if watched with a different view point can inspire you to play and move with your kids.

Listen to the podcast on all your favourite podcast players and don't forget to follow Mini Athletics on Instagram and Facebook.

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Season 2- Episode 1- Building Confidence, Trying New Sports & Tackling Screen Time

In this episode of So You Want Your Kids to Be Great at Sport, hosts Kirk Bowyer and Ben Russell dive into the importance of outdoor play, building confidence in children, and how to create positive sporting experiences for young people.

From overcoming the barriers that stop kids from trying new sports to understanding the impact of screen time on their development, Kirk and Ben share practical advice for parents, coaches, and anyone passionate about helping children enjoy being active.

The conversation also explores the growing popularity of paddle and pickleball, why the environment shapes kids’ enjoyment of sport, and how feedback from parents can improve sports programs and opportunities.

🎧 Highlights include:

• Why outdoor play builds skills, confidence, and resilience
• Overcoming barriers to trying new sports
• Screen time: balancing technology with active lifestyles
• The rise of paddle and pickleball as family-friendly sports
• Creating positive, pressure-free sporting environments
• How parent feedback can shape better sports programs

Packed with practical tips, real-life examples, and inspiring insights, this episode is all about helping kids build confidence, stay active, and develop a lifelong love for sport.

🌐 Learn more about Mini Athletics: Helping children build confidence, coordination, and a love of movement — www.miniathletics.com

📲 Follow us for more insights and updates:

Instagram & Facebook: @thegreatatsportpodcast

⭐ Enjoying the podcast? Leave a review and help us grow a community where positive youth sport thrives.

🎧 Produced and Edited by Rob Sillito

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosts: Ben Russell, Kirk Bowyer

Guest: Sean Patrick, Educator & Author of The Emotional Shoes

In this inspiring episode of So You Want Your Kids to Be Great at Sport, Ben Russell and Kirk Bowyer are joined by Sean Patrick—educator, coach, and author of The Emotional Shoes. Drawing on his experiences in both coaching and physical education, Sean offers a thoughtful take on how to build emotional strength, movement skills, and a lasting love of sport in young people.

The conversation explores the crucial early role parents play in shaping a child’s sporting journey, and how expectations—when not aligned with a child's needs—can quickly turn passion into pressure. Sean shares his philosophy on the importance of teaching movement before sport-specific skills, the role of PE in building positive associations with activity, and how competition should be a tool for growth, not just a measure of success.

Together, the trio unpacks Sean’s "Three E’s of Coaching"—expectations, energy, and effort—and why these simple principles can change the way kids experience sport. They also dive into his book The Emotional Shoes, which aims to help young athletes navigate the emotional ups and downs that come with competitive environments.

Key Takeaways:

• A parent’s influence can shape a child’s love for sport
• Movement is the foundation of all athletic development
• PE should emphasize fun, inclusion, and engagement
• The “Three E’s” of coaching help build healthy environments
• Unrealistic expectations can push kids away from sport
• Emotional skills are as important as physical ones in youth sport
• Early coaching should prioritize movement literacy
• Teaching kids to compete for personal growth builds resilience
• Parental support should uplift, not pressure
• Sport should be a space for joy, learning, and lifelong habits

Mini Athletics: Help your child build confidence and coordination through our fun, inclusive programs. Learn more at www.miniathletics.com

Follow Us: Get stories, advice, and episode highlights on Instagram and Facebook @thegreatatsportpodcast

Enjoying the podcast? Leave a review to help us grow a community where positive youth sport thrives.

Subscribe so you never miss an episode of So You Want Your Kids to Be Great at Sport—where character, care, and creativity are always in play.

🎧 Produced and Edited by Rob Sillito

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosts: Ben Russell, Kirk Bowyer

Guest: Chris Little, Experienced Tennis Coach

Episode Summary:

In this insightful episode of So You Want Your Kids to Be Great at Sport, hosts Ben Russell and Kirk Bowyer are joined by Chris Little—a respected tennis coach known for his thoughtful, values-driven approach to youth sport. Together, they unpack the deeper layers of coaching philosophy, the evolving role of parents, and how visual learning tools can help young athletes thrive.

Chris introduces his four key pillars of coaching—energy, empathy, communication, and character—and explains how each contributes to a nurturing and effective environment for developing young players. The conversation touches on the balance between maintaining high standards and allowing for individual growth, why losing gracefully is a vital lesson, and how motivation can be sustained through purpose rather than pressure.

They also discuss the often-misunderstood role of parents in youth sport, the value of trusting coaches, and how visual tools like whiteboards can aid in better understanding and retention for children.

Key Takeaways:

• Coaching begins with energy and love for the game
• Empathy helps build trust and connection with young athletes
• Strong communication and meaningful relationships elevate performance
• Character and values should shape how children compete and grow
• Standards and performance are not the same—both have a place in development
• Visual aids can boost engagement and learning
• Learning to lose is just as important as learning to win
• Motivation thrives when driven by process, not just outcomes
• Parents should offer support without pressure
• Trust between parents and coaches creates a stronger sports experience

Mini Athletics: Discover how our fun and inclusive programs help children fall in love with sport at www.miniathletics.com

Follow Us: Get tips, stories, and updates on Instagram and Facebook @thegreatatsportpodcast

Leave Us a Review: If you enjoyed the episode, share your thoughts—it helps us grow the community and spread the message of positive youth sport.

Hit Subscribe to never miss an episode!

Thanks for tuning in to So You Want Your Kids to Be Great at Sport—where character, care, and creativity are at the heart of every game.

🎧 Produced and Edited by Rob Sillito

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosts: Ben Russell, Kirk Bowyer

Episode Summary:

In this insightful episode of So You Want Your Kids to Be Great at Sport, hosts Ben Russell and Kirk Bowyer dive deep into one of the most debated topics in youth athletics: early specialization. Drawing from personal stories, research, and coaching experience, they explore why encouraging kids to try multiple sports may be the key to long-term athletic success—and enjoyment.

Ben and Kirk unpack the myths around the 10,000 hour rule, the hidden downsides of single-sport focus at a young age, and the powerful role parents play in shaping their child’s sporting journey. They also highlight how many top athletes actually benefited from broad, multi-sport backgrounds before finding their niche.

This conversation is a must-listen for any parent wondering how to best support their child’s development—not just as an athlete, but as a confident, well-rounded mover.

Key Takeaways:

• Early specialization can hinder rather than help athletic growth
• Multi-sport exposure builds better movement skills and coordination
• Parents have a huge influence—intentionally or not
• The 10,000 hour rule is often misapplied in youth sport
• Many elite athletes started with a wide range of sports
• Diverse experiences lead to more enjoyment and less burnout
• Athletic foundations like running and jumping benefit all sports
• Balancing structure with exploration helps kids thrive
• Trying new sports keeps development fun and motivating
• Parents should encourage play, variety, and long-term love of movement
• 
  

Mini Athletics: Learn more about our programs and how we’re helping kids develop sports skills in a fun, supportive environment at www.miniathletics.com

Follow Us: Stay connected for more tips, inspiration, and episodes on Instagram and Facebook @thegreatatsportpodcast

Leave Us a Review: Enjoyed the episode? Drop us a quick review—it helps more people discover the podcast and supports our mission to keep youth sports fun and meaningful.

🎧 Produced and Edited by Rob Sillito

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosts: Ben Russell, Kirk Bowyer, Nathan Tyson

Guest:Coach Kevin, Founder of Athletic Development Games

Episode Summary:

In this energizing episode of So You Want Your Kids to Be Great at Sport, hosts Ben Russell, Kirk Bowyer, and Nathan Tyson are joined by Coach Kevin from Athletic Development Games—a passionate youth coach and the mind behind the PlayBoost initiative. Together, they explore how play, joy, and creativity are essential ingredients in developing physically literate and confident young athletes.

Kevin shares his journey into youth coaching, the inspiration behind ADG, and how his approach focuses on fun, freedom, and foundational skills over early specialization. The conversation delves into the power of imaginative play, how parents can foster athletic development at home, and why serious training too early can actually hold kids back.

They also explore the growing community around these ideas, the role social media plays in spreading positive messages, and how playful parenting can create stronger bonds and better athletes.

Key Takeaways:

• Joy is the foundation of successful youth sports experiences
• Engagement, competence, and confidence drive athletic development
• The ADG method promotes play, creativity, and lifelong movement skills
• Imaginative play supports physical literacy and independence
• Early specialization can limit development—variety is key
• Parents play a crucial role in playful, supportive environments
• Social media can amplify positive change in youth sports
• Games that involve both parents and kids build connection and fun
• Kevin’s journey shows the impact of passion and play in coaching
• Athletic Development Games began as an Instagram account—and sparked a movement

Mini Athletics: Learn more about our programs and how we’re helping kids develop sports skills in a fun, supportive environment at www.miniathletics.com

Follow Us: Stay connected for more tips, inspiration, and episodes on Instagram and Facebook @thegreatatsportpodcast

Leave Us a Review: Enjoyed the episode? Drop us a quick review—it helps more people discover the podcast and supports our mission to keep youth sports fun and meaningful.

Don’t forget to hit subscribe!

Thanks for joining us on So You Want Your Kids to Be Great at Sport—where the journey to greatness starts with play.

🎧 Produced and Edited by Rob Sillito

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this thought-provoking episode of So You Want Your Kids to Be Great at Sport, hosts Ben Russell, Kirk Bowyer, and Nathan Tyson are joined by Natalie Weir, a leading expert in physical literacy and movement education. Together, they dive deep into what physical literacy really means, why it’s crucial for child development, and how it can be meaningfully integrated into sport and education.

Natalie helps unpack the four key domains of physical literacy, emphasizing that it’s not just about physical skills—but also about building confidence, motivation, and understanding in movement. The conversation touches on the importance of enjoyable and creative experiences in sport, how to strike the right balance between structured and unstructured play, and why a little chaos might be just what kids need to fall in love with being active.

The group also explores common barriers to physical literacy—like increased screen time and rigid systems in early education—and how parents and educators can foster environments that encourage freedom, exploration, and movement.

• A clear breakdown of the four domains of physical literacy
• Why movement is more than just physical skill—it’s confidence, creativity, and motivation
• The benefits of blending structure with freedom and chaos in play
• The role parents play in supporting physical literacy at home
• How to overcome screen-time challenges and create a movement-friendly environment
• Why language and messaging matter when encouraging kids to move

Mini Athletics: Learn more about our programs and how we’re helping kids develop sports skills in a fun, supportive environment at www.miniathletics.com

Follow Us: Stay connected for all the latest updates, tips, and motivational content on our Instagram and Facebook @thegreatatsportpodcast.

Leave Us a Review: If you enjoyed the episode, please take a moment to leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform—it helps others find the show and ensures we keep delivering top-notch content.

Don’t forget to hit subscribe! Your feedback keeps us motivated and helps us shape future episodes.

Thanks for tuning in to So You Want Your Kids to Be Great at Sport... where your child’s sporting journey begins!

🎧 Produced and Edited by Rob Sillito

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this inspiring episode of So You Want Your Kids to Be Great at Sport, hosts Ben Russell, Kirk Bowyer, and Nathan Tyson welcome the legendary Adebayo Akinfenwa. Known for his incredible strength, resilience, and infectious personality, Adebayo takes us on a journey through his football career, sharing stories from his playing days—including his time as a teammate of Nathan Tyson at Wycombe Wanderers.

Adebayo reflects on his footballing inspirations, particularly how Liverpool icon John Barnes influenced his path into the sport. He also opens up about his approach to supporting his own children as they take their first steps in football, emphasizing the importance of encouragement, patience, and enjoyment in the game.

Beyond football, Adebayo speaks candidly about handling criticism and setbacks with a positive mindset. His philosophy of self-belief and perseverance offers valuable lessons for young athletes, parents, and coaches alike. This episode is packed with motivation, humor, and practical advice on embracing challenges and staying mentally strong in the face of adversity.

Stories from Adebayo’s playing days, including his time with Nathan Tyson at Wycombe Wanderers.

How John Barnes inspired Adebayo’s love for football and shaped his journey.

His approach to supporting his children as they start their footballing careers.

The power of a positive mindset in overcoming criticism and setbacks.

Lessons on resilience, self-belief, and staying motivated in the face of challenges.

Adebayo Akinfenwa Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adebayoakinfenwa

Mini Athletics: Learn more about our programs and how we’re helping kids develop sports skills in a fun, supportive environment at www.miniathletics.com

Follow Us: Stay connected for all the latest updates, tips, and motivational content on our Instagram and Facebook @thegreatatsportpodcast.

Leave Us a Review: If you enjoyed the episode, please take a moment to leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform—it helps others find the show and ensures we keep delivering top-notch content!

Don’t forget to hit subscribe! Your feedback keeps us motivated and helps us shape future episodes.

Thanks for tuning in to So You Want Your Kids to Be Great at Sport... where your child’s sporting journey begins!

🎧 Produced and Edited by Rob Sillito

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.