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In Episode #83, I have a candid discussion with former Clark University baseball first baseman and DH, Alden Brown. During this discussion, Alden shares his childhood memories of playing multiple sports, including baseball. He discusses what got him interested in baseball and why he chose baseball over the other sports he played. We go in-depth about the friendships he built through baseball and how his friends fueled his competitiveness. Alden also talks about the tough times and moments he experienced while playing high school baseball, and how those moments shaped his playing future. We discuss life as a college athlete and the how and why he lost the love of the game. Finally, Alden shares what led him to decide to walk away from the sport that he loved so much. In the end, I offer my 'Three Takeaways.' I encourage all youth athletes, coaches and parents to listen to this sobering discussion.  As always, thanks for listening. Take care. Support the show

In Episode #82, I have a candid and enlightening conversation with Jason Williams. Jason is the Youth Director at Renew Birmingham and the Internship Director at Buildup Community School also in Birmingham, Alabama. We begin the conversation discussing Jason's favorite sports as a kid and which sport he ultimately became very good at. Jason talks about the Renew Birmingham program, how he got involved in it and how the program helps out youth in the city of Birmingham. Jason explains, in detail, the challenges the youth, that his program serves and advocates for, deal with on a daily basis. Jason also discusses his own challenges in dealing with the underserved community, his desire to help those in need and the restraints that Renew Birmingham are dealt when it comes to working with the local and state governments of Alabama. We discuss how the internships at Buildup Community School, in an ingenious way, prepares young kids for a career in the trades. Jason offers his insight as to why the disparities exist between black and white communities when it comes to healthcare, education and employment. Finally, Jason offers advice to young kids as to how they can improve their lives and potentially find a great career. In the end, I offer my 'Three Takeaways.'  This is a very informative and sobering discussion. I recommend everyone listen to it. As always, thanks for listening. Take care. Support the show

In Episode #81, I have an enlightening conversation with Pharmacist Jessica Beal concerning the affect medications have on athletic performance. The conversation begins with Jessica sharing the sports she played as a youth athlete. She discusses which sport was her favorite, why it was her favorite and what inspired her to get involved in sports. Jessica shares, in detail, what prescribed medications she took as a college athlete and how those medications affected her athletic and social life. Jessica goes on to offer great insight into how certain medications can affect two athletes completely different. Jessica discusses what type of athletes she works with now and how she handles their athletic performance based on the medications they're taking. With PED's (Performance Enhancing Drugs) being a constant topic around sports, Jessica breaks down, in simple terms, the difference between PED's and over-the-counter medication and how they affect performance. She touches on how nutrition can aid in improving performance and possibly eliminating the use of medication. Finally, Jessica offers sound and knowledgeable advice to parents, athletes and coaches when it comes to being informed about how medication can and will affect athletic performance. In the end, I offer my 'Three Takeaways' from the episode. This is a very informative and useful interview. I suggest every parent, coach, athletic trainer and athlete listen to this. As always, thanks for listening. Take care. Support the show

In Episode #80, I have a discussion about Depression with the co-host of the Big Bad Morning Show, in Baltimore, Jeremy Conn. Jeremy opens up about the childhood trauma that he endured and what became the root of his battle with depression. Jeremy shares what his childhood was like, the dynamics of his home-life and which sport was his "getaway." Jeremy goes in-depth about his multiple suicide attempts and what ultimately led him to seek help. He also discusses his altruistic motives and who was the inspiration behind them. We cover his selfless community and charity work, and the local Baltimore sports fan who captured his heart.  Whether you're dealing with depression or not, or maybe you know someone who is, everyone needs to listen to this heart-felt, touching and honest episode. It's sure to move you. Support the show

In Episode #79, I have a conversation with a friend of the show and reoccurring guest, mental health expert Dr. Melissa Tate-Scruse. The topic of conversation is about Character. Dr. Tate-Scruse begins by explaining what her thoughts and vision is when it comes to the meaning of Character. We then transition to discussing how society views character and if having good character has gone by the wayside over the years. We discuss the, at best, questionable character by those in the entertainment and political realm. that has been in the news cycle over the past several months. Dr. Tate-Scruse sheds some important light on how parents should handle this confusing situation and what they need to do to ensure their kids are not being swayed by what they see on tv and social media. We also tackle the issue of brawls in sports and what can be done from a teaching and instilling good morals standpoint to curtail these incidents despite sports being highly emotional. Finally, Dr. Tate-Scruse offers her advice to kids who may be confused or struggling with what they're being taught at home compared to what they see on tv and how to decide what's right and what's wrong. In the end, I offer my 'Three Takeaways' from the episode. I recommend that you listen to this insightful and though-provoking episode. Dr. Tate-Scruse offers sound judgement and advice. As always, thanks for listening. Take care. Support the show

In Episode #78, my guest is Registered Dietician Mia. Mia is from Dallas, Texas and attended Texas Tech University, where she was the R.D. for many of the athletic programs. Mia explains the significant differences between a R.D. and a Nutritionist. She explains why nutrition and hydration is so vital to peak athletic performance. We discuss the different nutrition and hydration needs between age groups as well as one sport to another. Mia what the healthy options are at convenience stores when parents and athletes are pressed for time. We talk about the nutrition and hydration needs are between in-season and off-season. In depth, Mia explains when it's a good time to use hydration replenishing drinks and if it's better to consume electrolyte drinks or just water. Finally, Mia offers her advice to athletes, coaches and parents when it comes to proper nutrition and hydration. In the end, I offer my 'Three Takeaways.' Mia offers great information and advice in the very informative interview. I suggest athletes and parents of athletes listen to this episode. As always, thanks for listening. Take care. Support the show

In Episode #77, I have a sobering and uplifting conversation with Retired Atlanta Detective and now, Founder and CEO of Clippers and Cops Tyrone Dennis. Clipper and Cops is a grassroots program to help young kids in trouble and also to bridge the divide between communities and the police. We began our discussion talking about Tyrone's childhood growing up in St. Louis. He shared what he went through and the things he encountered as young kid in one of the worst neighborhoods in St. Louis. Tyrone discussed the sports he played and which sport, not only propelled him to do great things in his life but which sport, according to him, ultimately saved his life. Tyrone shares what led him to Atlanta and his experiences as a Police Officer then subsequently a Detective in Atlanta. We discuss, in detail, how he created the Clippers and Cops program and the number of young kids the program has helped and will continue to help. Tyrone shares his vision for the Clippers and Cops program and how communities across the country and worldwide can get involved. Finally, Tyrone shares his advice for families when it comes to parenting young kids. In the end, I offer my 'Three Takeaways.'  I strongly urge everyone to listen to this interview. There's power in numbers and power in togetherness. As always, thanks for listening. Take Care. Support the show

In Episode #76, the Life After Sports episode is completed with former high school and college football player David. We begin Part 2 of the episode discussing David's thought on #2 overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft Cameron Brink's ACL injury during a game back on June 18th. From there, we pick up where we left of from Part 1. We talk about how David felt mentally and emotionally the first few days and week following his decision to stop playing football. David also shares what kind of toll the decision took on him and how he was able to get through it. We discuss what David is doing these days and what his future plans and goals are. Finally, David offers his advice to young athletes who may face the same decision he did. In the end, I offer my 'Three Takeaways' for young athletes when dealing with living life after sports. I recommend all parents of young athletes, coaches and athletes to listen to Part 1 and Part 2 of this episode. As always, thanks for listening. Take care. Support the show

In Episode #75, I have an honest and sobering discussion with former high school and college football player name David. David shares what got him interested in playing sports and, in particular, football at a very young age. We discuss his talent, athleticism and success as a youth football player. The conversation moves to his high school playing days. It's during that time period where David would encounter two severe injuries that ultimately forces him to make a very tough decision. David is candid and open about those injuries and how they affected him, not only physically, but mentally and emotionally. David talks about the support group he had around him during those tough days and what it took for him to keep going. David reveals what finally led up to him making a tough decision on his future and his thoughts on that decision. Finally, David offers his advice to young athletes when it comes playing sports and how to deal with life afterwards. In the end, I offer my 'Three Takeaways.'  I encourage all young athletes, parents and coaches to listen to this and the upcoming Part II episode of this very real and probable outcome for many athletes. As always, thanks for listening. Take Care. Support the show

In Episode #74, I have a discussion with recurring guest Dr. Julie Stamm, PhD. She is an expert in repetitive head impacts and the author of The Brain on Youth Sports: The science, The myths and The Future. Dr. Stamm begins with explaining what a  concussion is and how it occurs. She goes on to explain what a Guardian Cap is and how it's suppose to protect athletes. We discuss the possible change in terminology surrounding concussions and head impacts, and what that may mean moving forward. Dr. Stamm offers her opinion on the mandate and what that means for athletes in the future. She also offers her opinion on the efficacy of the Guardian Cap and if the mandate is just for "optics." Finally, Dr. Stamm offers her advice to parents and coaches when it comes to relying on the Guardian Cap for safety and preventing concussions. In the end, I offer my 'Three Takeaways.' As usual, Dr. Stamm is informative and insightful. If you have or coach an athlete, I suggest you listen to this and the previous episodes that Dr. Stamm was a guest on.  As always, thanks for listening. Take Care. Support the show

In Episode #73, I have a candid and in-depth discussion with Performance Coach, Motivational Speaker and founder of War Room Strength and War Room Speakers Club, Ross Alexander. Ross and I discuss the state of youth sports today compared to decades ago. First, Ross shares his memories and experience as a young athlete in Texas. He discusses what sports he played and what got him interested in playing sports. Ross also shares who his role model was and why that person was an inspiration to him. We discuss the state of today's young athletes compared to years ago and why they seem to have less respect for authority, including parents and coaches. Ross shares why he entered into the public speaking realm. He talks about how his War Room Strength and War Room Speakers Club has helps young athletes. Finally, Ross offers his opinion on the pressure that young athletes face today-or the lack thereof. In the end, I offer my 'Three Takeaways.' Please listen in to this very frank conversation. As always, thanks for listening. Take Care. Support the show

In Episode #72, I have a discussion with pediatric endocrinologist and the co-founder of The Endocrine Co. in Orlando, Florida, Dr Pauley. Dr. Pauley has been a guest on the show several times. She shares her wonderful and insightful knowledge on all things that affect youth systemically. Dr. Pauley answers and explains things in an easy-to-understand and thoughtful manner. In this discussion, Dr. Pauley and I discuss what BMI is, how it's calculated and it's relevancy to body weight and weight loss. We go in-depth about the step-by-step process of creating a successful weight loss program for your teen. Dr. Pauley shares info. on the proven and safe weight loss drugs available for teens. Dr. Pauley, in her concise yet thoughtful approach, outlines the way in which parents and families can be a support group for their teen during the weight loss journey. Finally, Dr. Pauley offers her advice to parents and families to help their teen be successful in a weight loss program. In the end, I offer my 'Three Takeaways'. I encourage teens, as well as adults, to listen to Dr. Pauley discuss this important topic. As always, thanks for listening. Take care Support the show

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In Episode #70, I have a discussion with Pediatric Endocrinologist, CEO and Founder of The Endocrine Co. in Orlando, Florida, Dr. Pauley. In, easy to understand terminology,  Dr. Pauley uncovers and details everything surrounding G.H.D. She explains what a growth hormone is and where it's created in our bodies. She details what exactly G.H.D is and what causes it. Dr. Pauley talks about the risk factors and the signs and symptoms to look for. She shares great information on how G.H.D. is diagnosed and how it's treated. We discuss how a parent can tell if their child is suffering from G.H.D. or if their child is short because of genetics. In the end, Dr. Pauley offers her advice to families when it comes to dealing with and treating G.H.D. In the end, I offer my 'Three Takeaways.' Please be sure to listen in to this in-depth and information packed episode.  As always, thanks for listening. Take care. Support the show

In Episode #69, I have a very informative discussion with Darrick Bowens. Darrick has an MBA in Finance and he's a franchise owner of Colbert Ball Tax in Frederick, Maryland. Darrick shares his vast knowledge of the finance industry and how that affects young kids. Darrick discusses the financial literacy program he started in Frederick earlier this year.  He gives his insight into what age kids should start learning the basics of finance and how that should be implemented in schools as well as at home. Darrick also shares his thoughts on the N.I.L. (Name Image and Likeness) situation and college athletes should manage their finances off this ever-growing college sports program. He also shares his thoughts on the universities and the NCAA's culpability in athletes being educated on financial responsibility. Finally, Darrick offers his advice to young kids when it comes to managing their finances. In the end, I offer my 'Three Takeaways for young kids in dealing with financial responsibility. As always, thanks for listening. Take care. Support the show