The Sports Parenting Playbook

Ben Russell
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  • Kids & Family
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The Sports Parenting Podcast Hosted by Ben Russell, Kirk Bowyer, and Nathan Tyson Powered by Mini Athletics 🎙️ The Sports Parenting Podcast – Powered by Mini Athletics Raising kids in sport is one of the most rewarding—and challenging—journeys a parent can take. This podcast is your safe space to explore the ups, downs, and everything in between. Hosted by Ben Russell, Marketing Manager at Mini Athletics, running coach, Mini Athletics business owner, and proud dad of two girls, alongside Kirk Bowyer, former sports scientist to elite level athletes, Co-Founder of Mini Athletics, and father of two boys, we bring you honest conversations that matter. Episodes features experienced and insightful guests who tackle the tough questions parents face when supporting their children in sport. From balancing fun with competition, to managing pressure, confidence, and resilience, we share our own experiences and expert perspectives to help you navigate the sporting journey with your child. Whether your child is just starting out or already competing, this podcast builds a community of parents who want to raise happy, healthy, and confident young athletes who enjoy their sports! This is THE SPORTING PARENTING PLAYBOOK! 👉 Learn more about Mini Athletics at www.miniathletics.com 🎥 Watch all episodes in FULL at https://www.youtube.com/@miniathletics Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. Why Poor Coaching Can Ruin a Child’s Love for Sport: A Baseball Session Gone Wrong

    Apr 3

    Why Poor Coaching Can Ruin a Child’s Love for Sport: A Baseball Session Gone Wrong

    Why Poor Coaching Can Ruin a Child’s Love for Sport: A Baseball Session Gone WrongIn this episode, Kirk and Ben dissect a recent baseball session that highlights how ineffective coaching and lack of engagement can turn kids off from sport altogether. They explore the importance of making sports fun, inclusive, and inspiring for young participants. Main Topics Covered: The impact of first impressions in sports coachingThe dangers of overly technical, monotonous trainingHow to create fun and engaging sessions that inspire childrenThe significance of qualified, passionate coaches in youth sportsPractical tips for planning sport sessions that foster joy and participationComparing coaching standards across different sports and countriesThe importance of ongoing coach development and learning Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction: How poor coaching can affect children’s love of sport 01:12 - The importance of first impressions and welcoming environment 02:18 - Kirk’s baseball experience: what went wrong at the baseball session 03:27 - Observations on coaching professionalism and standards in youth sports 04:54 - The impact of monotony and technique-only focus on kids’ enjoyment 06:10 - The importance of fun, game-based learning in youth coaching 07:35 - How to plan engaging, inclusive training sessions 09:00 - Recognizing and filling coaching skill gaps 10:45 - Comparing coaching standards in different sports and regions 12:01 - Why qualified, passionate coaches make all the difference 14:20 - The role of coaching mindset in creating lasting joy in sports 17:22 - How to adapt sessions for different age groups and skill levels 20:29 - The dangers of unqualified coaches and how to identify good coaching 22:48 - Reflection on Kirk’s baseball session: lessons learned 24:02 - The importance of fun first and skill second in youth sports 26:52 - The value of proper coach qualification and standards 32:45 - Creating joy through diversity in activities and sports 36:22 - How to collaborate with assistant coaches for more engaging sessions 40:23 - Tailoring activities to kids’ interests to boost participation 43:21 - Challenge: Encourage trying new sports and activities to foster a lifelong love of sport Resources & Links: Coach Ball Game InstagramFind out more about Mini Athletics: www.miniathletics.com Remember, great coaching inspires kids to love sport, not just teach them techniques. Let’s keep fostering environments where children can enjoy active play and develop a lifelong passion for sport! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    41 min
  2. Coaching Confidence In Kids Sport!

    Mar 13

    Coaching Confidence In Kids Sport!

    In this episode of The Sports Parenting Playbook @miniathleticsben and @kirkbowyer discuss CONFIDENCE in kids sport. Specifically, if you can promote confidence in kids through good coaching, can you kill confidence in kids through bad coaching and what techniques can be used when coaching to make sure that children are happy and confidence is growing. We all know that kids have to have confidence to take part in sports but equally some kids are forced to take part in sports when they may not be confident. What lasting damage does this have on their love of sport? Take a listen to this episode and share with like minded people to get the message out there. Interested in Mini Athletics visit www.miniathletics.com If you are passionate about coaching kids and think that owning a mini athletics business could be for you visit www.miniathleticsfranchising.co.uk in the UK & www.miniathleticsfranchising.com in the USA Whilst you are here please leave us a review! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    37 min
  3. Will Greenwood: Growing up, Rugby and The Festival Of Sport

    Feb 27

    Will Greenwood: Growing up, Rugby and The Festival Of Sport

    Will Greenwood: Growing up, Rugby and The Festival Of Sport Another episode of The Sports Parenting Playbook is presented by Mini Athletics duo Kirk Bowyer and Ben Russell and they are joined by Rugby World Cup winner and The Festival of Sport creator Will Greenwood. In this episode Kirk and Ben dig deep into the upbringing of Will Greenwood and his journey into the world of sport. As a youth Will loved Athletics, a little known fact is his success as a triple jumper and cricket player before excelling at Rugby. He was once told that he wasn't cut out for the game and should try something different! As a parent or coach we want the best for our kids and hope that they grow up being active and healthy. Sport has such a big part to play in that development. Discussions like the ones had in this episode and past episodes of the podcast are here to help you understand the best ways to navigate through the journey of bringing children up to be a lover sport and physical activity. If you are enjoying the episodes of this podcast then hit the SUBSCRIBE button on your chosen podcast player and get NOTIFIED of new episodes. Why not leave us a review? it helps to get the episodes out to more people like you. Interested in Mini Athletics? visit www.miniathletics.com and follow us on Instagram @miniathletics Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    34 min
  4. Unlocking Athletic Potential: Insights from Jim Kielbaso

    Feb 13

    Unlocking Athletic Potential: Insights from Jim Kielbaso

    Unlocking Athletic Potential: Insights from Jim KielbasoDiscover the essential elements of long-term athletic development with world-class strength and conditioning coach Jim Kielbaso. In this episode, we explore how foundational movement skills and balanced training can elevate young athletes and influence their long-term sports engagement and success. In this episode:The definition and importance of athletic development in youthHow motor skills, balance, coordination, and sensory processing build athleticismThe role of sports coaches versus athletic development coachesThe correlation between athletic competency and multi-sport participationThe impact of access to athletic coaching on confidence and skillChallenges and misconceptions around youth strength and conditioningHow to integrate athletic development into school curriculums and coaching practicesThe influence of social media and parental perceptions on youth sports choicesRecognizing signs of overtraining and preventing athlete burnoutThe significance of physical recovery and understanding individual athlete readiness Resources & Links: International Youth Coaches Association (IYCA) Follow Jim on Instagram @jimkielbaso Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    41 min
  5. Dwain Chambers - Learning from mistakes to become a role model

    Jan 16

    Dwain Chambers - Learning from mistakes to become a role model

    Dwain Chambers shares his journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a world-class sprinter, emphasizing the importance of discipline, mentorship, and resilience. He discusses his role in inspiring young athletes through his academy, focusing on personal growth and the joy of participation over winning. Dwain talks openly about the lowest moment of his career and how he now uses this to coach the kids in his academy. KeywordsDwain Chambers, athletics, role model, inspiration, youth sports, discipline, resilience, mentorship, personal growth, sports academy For more information about Mini Athletics visit www.miniathletics.com & be sure to follow us on Instagram @miniathletics Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    33 min
  6. Youth Sports: A Conversation with Linda Flanagan

    Jan 9

    Youth Sports: A Conversation with Linda Flanagan

    In this episode of the Sports Parenting Playbook Podcast, Kirk Bowyer and stand in co-host Seb discuss with Linda Flanagan, author of 'Take Back the Game', the complexities of youth sports. They explore the pressures on young athletes, the financial and emotional costs of travel sports, and the importance of intrinsic motivation. Linda shares insights on how sports can be more inclusive and enjoyable for children, emphasizing the need for balance and the dangers of early specialization. Keywordsyouth sports, travel sports, intrinsic motivation, early specialization, sports parenting TakeawaysLinda Flanagan discusses the impact of travel sports on families.The financial burden of youth sports is significant for many parents.Intrinsic motivation is crucial for long-term sports engagement.Early specialization in sports can lead to burnout and injuries.Linda advocates for a more inclusive approach to youth sports.The importance of free play in preventing injuries is highlighted.Norway's model of community-based sports is discussed as ideal.The role of parents in supporting but not pressuring children is emphasized.Linda shares insights on balancing sports and academics for children.The episode concludes with a call to rethink youth sports structures. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    53 min
  7. Christmas Special - Sports Parents Christmas Shopping Guide

    12/12/2025

    Christmas Special - Sports Parents Christmas Shopping Guide

    In this Christmas special episode of The Sports Parenting Playbook hosts Ben Russell and Kirk Bowyer discuss their take on the latest Christmas presents being marketed for children (and adults) this Christmas. What presents could benefit a sports enthusiast child? What presents could do more harm than good to the development of children looking to ENJOY a sport. Christmas is all about family and friends and the quality time you can spend with them making memories unwrapping presents and playing together. Listen to this episode to see what could be a Christmas hit this year and what might not do so well. To find out more about Mini Athletics visit www.miniathletics.com Follow us on social media @miniathletics The views and opinions in this episode are those of the hosts. They have in no way been paid to endorse a product. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    37 min
  8. Jarren Duran - The Clubhouse Netflix series. Coping with pressure

    11/28/2025

    Jarren Duran - The Clubhouse Netflix series. Coping with pressure

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

    30 min
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The Sports Parenting Podcast Hosted by Ben Russell, Kirk Bowyer, and Nathan Tyson Powered by Mini Athletics 🎙️ The Sports Parenting Podcast – Powered by Mini Athletics Raising kids in sport is one of the most rewarding—and challenging—journeys a parent can take. This podcast is your safe space to explore the ups, downs, and everything in between. Hosted by Ben Russell, Marketing Manager at Mini Athletics, running coach, Mini Athletics business owner, and proud dad of two girls, alongside Kirk Bowyer, former sports scientist to elite level athletes, Co-Founder of Mini Athletics, and father of two boys, we bring you honest conversations that matter. Episodes features experienced and insightful guests who tackle the tough questions parents face when supporting their children in sport. From balancing fun with competition, to managing pressure, confidence, and resilience, we share our own experiences and expert perspectives to help you navigate the sporting journey with your child. Whether your child is just starting out or already competing, this podcast builds a community of parents who want to raise happy, healthy, and confident young athletes who enjoy their sports! This is THE SPORTING PARENTING PLAYBOOK! 👉 Learn more about Mini Athletics at www.miniathletics.com 🎥 Watch all episodes in FULL at https://www.youtube.com/@miniathletics Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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