About So You Want Your Kids to Be Great at Sport...
The Sports Parenting Podcast
Hosted by Ben Russell, Kirk Bowyer, and Nathan Tyson
Powered by Mini Athletics
đď¸ The Sports Parenting Podcast â Powered by Mini Athletics
Raising kids in sport is one of the most rewardingâand challengingâjourneys 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!
đ Learn more about Mini Athletics at www.miniathletics.com
đĽ Watch all episodes in FULL at https://www.youtube.com/@miniathletics
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Why Poor Coaching Can Ruin a Childâs Love for Sport: A Baseball Session Gone Wrong
Why Poor Coaching Can Ruin a Childâs 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 coaching
The dangers of overly technical, monotonous training
How to create fun and engaging sessions that inspire children
The significance of qualified, passionate coaches in youth sports
Practical tips for planning sport sessions that foster joy and participation
Comparing coaching standards across different sports and countries
The importance of ongoing coach development and learning
Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction: How poor coaching can affect childrenâs love of sport
01:12 - The importance of first impressions and welcoming environment
02:18 - Kirkâs 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 kidsâ 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 Kirkâs 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 kidsâ 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 Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/coachballgame)
Find out more about Mini Athletics: www.miniathletics.com
Remember, great coaching inspires kids to love sport, not just teach them techniques. Letâs keep fostering environments where children can enjoy active play and develop a lifelong passion for sport!
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13 Mar 2026
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!
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27 Feb 2026
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
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13 Feb 2026
Unlocking Athletic Potential: Insights from Jim Kielbaso
Unlocking Athletic Potential: Insights from Jim Kielbaso
Discover 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 youth
How motor skills, balance, coordination, and sensory processing build athleticism
The role of sports coaches versus athletic development coaches
The correlation between athletic competency and multi-sport participation
The impact of access to athletic coaching on confidence and skill
Challenges and misconceptions around youth strength and conditioning
How to integrate athletic development into school curriculums and coaching practices
The influence of social media and parental perceptions on youth sports choices
Recognizing signs of overtraining and preventing athlete burnout
The significance of physical recovery and understanding individual athlete readiness
Resources & Links:
International Youth Coaches Association (IYCA) (https://iyca.org/)
Follow Jim on Instagram @jimkielbaso
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16 Jan 2026
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.
Keywords
Dwain 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
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9 Jan 2026
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.
Keywords
youth sports, travel sports, intrinsic motivation, early specialization, sports parenting
Takeaways
Linda 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.
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12 Dec 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.
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28 Nov 2025
Jarren Duran - The Clubhouse Netflix series. Coping with pressure
đď¸ 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, Duranâs story shines a light on what it really means to âget betterâ â 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 childâs sporting experience.
â ď¸ Content note: This episode includes discussions around mental health, which some listeners may find triggering.
đĄ If youâre enjoying the podcast, donât forget to leave us a review â it helps us reach more listeners like you!
đ Learn more about Mini Athletics at www.miniathletics.com.
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11 Nov 2025
Coach Ballgame - Talks passion for coaching, sports parenting advice and more
In this episode of The Sports Parenting Playbook, we sit down with Coach Ballgame (James Lowe)âa coach known for his infectious energy, creative approach, and deep love for baseball.
Together, we explore:
âž Engaging Coaching: How James brings fun, music, and personality to every practice and game.
â¤ď¸ Passion for Baseball: Why keeping the sport playful and accessible matters more than stats.
đ¨đŠđ§ Sports Parenting Advice: Practical tips for parents to support their young athletes without pressure.
đ The Sandlot Tours Origin Story: The incredible moment when a strangerâs $20,000 donation sparked a nationwide movement.
Coach Ballgameâs journey is a reminder that sports are about joy, community, and lifelong memoriesânot just wins and losses.
đ Resources & Links
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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10 Oct 2025
What does Bluey have to do with sport?
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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30 May 2025
The Sports Parenting Playbook
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 Littleâa 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 coachingâenergy, empathy, communication, and characterâand 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 sameâboth 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 (http://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 thoughtsâit 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 Sportâwhere character, care, and creativity are at the heart of every game.
đ§ Produced and Edited by Rob Sillito
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26 Jan 2025
So You Want Your Kids to Be Great at Sport
Hosts: Ben Russell, Kirk Bowyer, Nathan Tyson
Episode Summary:
In Episode 1 of So You Want Your Kids to Be Great at Sport, hosts Ben Russell, Kirk Bowyer, and Nathan Tyson challenge the common pressure many parents put on their kids to be the best at sports from a young age. Instead, they emphasize the importance of encouraging children to simply enjoy sports, try out a variety of activities, and remember that fun is the ultimate goal at an early stage. The episode explores how fostering a love for movement and play, without focusing solely on competition or achievement, sets the foundation for long-term success and well-being in sports.
The hosts discuss why early specialization can be counterproductive, the benefits of letting kids explore different sports, and how the overall experience of playârather than being the bestâcan be the most rewarding aspect of youth sports.
Key Takeaways:
The importance of encouraging children to try a variety of sports without the pressure of excelling in any one.
How focusing on fun and enjoyment lays the groundwork for healthy sports involvement later on.
The negative effects of early specialization and competitive pressure on young athletes.
Tips for parents on how to create an environment that prioritizes enjoyment and development over winning.
Links & Resources:
Mini Athletics: Learn more about our programs and how weâre helping kids develop sports skills in a fun, supportive environment at www.miniathletics.com (https://emea01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.miniathletics.com%2F&data=05%7C02%7C%7Caf4a7886d6b4464f26fd08dd393f5a88%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C638729666442504017%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=X2DO6RW3H7%2B73PpxWMWN8AFGc%2FGHzLXAq5sqS6E28mo%3D&reserved=0)
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 platformâit helps others find the show and ensures we keep delivering top-notch content!
Donât 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 childâs sporting journey begins!
Produced and Edited- Rob Sillito
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
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