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★★★★★

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18 reviews

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Welcome to Pin It Forward, the podcast where wrestling grit meets parenting wisdom, hosted by Fred Minnick, Wall Street Journal bestselling author and former wrestler, and Dr. Brandon Mason, an All-American wrestler from Oklahoma State and Radiologist. As parents of young wrestlers themselves, Fred and Brandon draw on their deep roots in the sport and their firsthand experiences to guide listeners through the highs and lows of raising kids in wrestling—and youth sports in general. Having seen too many parents yelling from the sidelines at tournaments, Fred and Brandon are on a mission to help moms and dads support their young athletes without adding undue pressure. Through candid conversations, personal stories from their wrestling journeys, and exclusive interviews with special guests—Olympic medalists, coaches, athletes, and sports psychology experts—they share actionable strategies for fostering resilience, confidence, and a love for the sport. From balancing encouragement with discipline to navigating the emotional intensity of competition, Pin It Forward equips parents with the tools to raise successful, well-rounded athletes. Whether you’re a wrestling family or involved in any youth sport, this podcast offers universal insights to help kids thrive on and off the mat. Join Fred and Brandon for heartfelt discussions, practical tips, and a celebration of the values that make sports a powerful force for growth. Listen to Pin It Forward on all major podcast platforms and start pinning it forward for the next generation!

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Check latest episodes from Pin It Forward podcast

The Power of High School Coaches With Keith Massey, Hall of Fame Member

2026/02/03

Brandon's high school team Lewis Central High School in Council Bluffs, Iowa, was inducted into the Dan Gable Wrestling Hall of Fame. And his coach Keith Massey joins the show to talk about what it takes to be a successful coach at all levels. In addition to Brandon, Massey coached Trent and Travis Paulson, who were state champions, All-Americans at Iowa State, members of U.S. freestyle World teams and inductees of the Glen Brand Hall of Fame in 2017. Key Takeaways High school coaches play a crucial role in shaping athletes' character. Building a strong community through youth wrestling is essential for success. Memorable moments from the 2001 team highlight their journey to greatness. The importance of managing individual goals during college recruitment. Youth wrestling programs are vital for developing future champions. Competition fosters growth and resilience in young athletes. Freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling enhance technical skills and positional awareness. The 2001 team's legacy continues to inspire future generations. Maintaining a love for the sport is key to long-term success. The bonds formed through wrestling create lasting friendships and memories. Thank You To Our Sponsor Use Code FORWARD to save 15% on Defense Soap Orders: ⁠https://www.defensesoap.com/coupon/forward/ Learn more about your ad choices. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Building Champions: Ben Clymer, Head Coach of Faith Christian Academy

2026/01/27

Fred and Brandon chat with Ben Clymer, the head coach of the elite Faith Christian Academy. Coach Clymer has built a high school empire, creating D1 wrestlers left and right. His belief in building wrestlers will surprise many, as he cares more about character and faith than talent. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

World Champion Vougar Arujau: The Art of Coaching

2026/01/20

Note: This episode endures a few technical difficulties., but the conversation still flows! World Champion Vougar Arujau, who's also the father of World and NCAA champ Vito Arujau, highlights the importance of understanding individuality in sports and the challenges of parenting young athletes. Vougar shares his insights on coaching and the delicate balance of supporting children in their sports endeavors while allowing them to develop their own identities. Use Code FORWARD to save 15% on Defense Soap Orders: ⁠https://www.defensesoap.com/coupon/forward/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wrestling Toughness: Hurt vs. Injured

2026/01/13

Dr. Brandon Mason and Fred Minnick explore the physical toll of wrestling and understanding the differences between being hurt and an actual injury. Use Code FORWARD to save 15% on Defense Soap Orders: ⁠https://www.defensesoap.com/coupon/forward/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

NDSU Head Coach Obe Blanc: Why Character Matters

2026/01/06

Brandon's former teammate at Oklahoma State, NDSU head coach Obe Blanc emphasizes a 360 approach to coaching, focusing on both athletic and personal development. He cites the importance of character and effort over past accolades in recruiting athletes. This fun episode also showcases a few anecdotes from Obe's and Brandon's college days. Use Code FORWARD to save 15% on Defense Soap Orders: ⁠https://www.defensesoap.com/coupon/forward/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wrestling Lessons For Life With Terry Steiner, USA Wrestling Women’s Head Coach

2025/12/30

The great Terry Steiner joins Brandon and Fred to discuss holiday traditions, weight management, the importance of family time, and the life lessons learned through the sport. They delve into the transition from athlete to coach, the growth of women's wrestling, and the philosophy behind effective coaching and communication. Chapters 00:00 Holiday Traditions and Food Culture 04:00 Wrestling and Weight Management 06:59 Balancing Wrestling and Family Life 09:55 The Role of Wrestling in Personal Development 12:51 Transitioning from Athlete to Coach 15:54 The Evolution of Women's Wrestling 24:42 The Growth of Women's Wrestling in America 34:07 The Growth of Women's Wrestling 35:41 Coaching Dynamics: Men vs. Women 42:20 The Role of Relationships in Coaching 47:51 Parenting and Coaching: Lessons Learned 53:36 The Importance of Teachable Moments Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Best of 2025

2025/12/23

A look back on Pin It Forward's first year! Use Code FORWARD to save 15% on Defense Soap Orders: ⁠https://www.defensesoap.com/coupon/forward/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lee Roper On The Pursuit of Winning

2025/12/16

Cowboys RTC coach Lee Roper join Fred and Brandon to discuss the pursuit and power of winning, outlining what it takes to become an elite wrestler for both the parents and athletes. Roper, a former University of Northern Iowa coach, details the desired gains at youth, middle school and high school levels. And Coach Roper also gives us all something to ponder when we cite "crazy parents" at tournaments. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Coleman Scott Debates Accountability vs. Crazy Parenting in Wrestling

2025/12/09

In an electrifying episode that begins with a hypo ethical food journey toMexico, Coleman Scott returns to the show to discuss accountability for your kids vs. being a crazy parent. Is it a fine line? Use Code FORWARD to save 15% on Defense Soap Orders: ⁠https://www.defensesoap.com/coupon/forward/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Popularity in Mexico 03:38 The Culinary Delights of Mexico 06:43 Wrestling Clinics and Youth Development 09:38 Insights from the Tulsa Kickoff Tournament 12:26 Parenting Styles in Youth Sports 15:33 Accountability vs. Crazy Parenting 18:37 Balancing Discipline and Enjoyment in Sports 25:09 Understanding Burnout in Sports 26:41 The Role of Parents in Youth Sports 29:26 The Importance of Post-Match Conversations 31:02 The Pressure of Competition and Financial Investment 33:19 Wrestling as a Life Preparation Tool 34:40 The Mental Toughness of Wrestlers 38:46 Tailoring Coaching to Individual Needs 43:29 Life Beyond Wrestling: Building Better Humans Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How To Teach Kids Wrestling Techniques At Home

2025/12/02

Fred and Brandon discuss cool ways to teach kids technique at home. Just don't do these in restaurants. That will get you in trouble. Just ask Fred. Use Code FORWARD to save 15% on Defense Soap Orders: https://www.defensesoap.com/coupon/forward/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Thanksgiving: Food and Discipline in Wrestling

2025/11/25

In this short episode, Dr. Brandon Mason and Fred Minnick share a few wrestling memories from past Thanksgivings. Mason, a former All American at Oklahoma State, has some advice for wrestlers chowing down this Thanksgiving. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Emotional Resiliency: Joey McKenna Shares His Childhood Wrestling Routine

2025/11/18

2025 US Open Champion, PanAm champion and 3X NCAA All American Joey McKenna joins Fred and Brandon to share the story of how he became known as "Joey Bag of Donuts," his famous pull up bar and how his youth lessons still help him today. Support our Sponsor, Defense Soap. Get 15% off any purchase with the coupon code FORWARD. https://www.defensesoap.com/coupon/forward/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Coleman Scott Returns to Discuss Fear of Failure

2025/11/11

All athletes face failure and adversity. This week, Brandon and Fred visit with their first returning guest--NCAA Champ and Olympic Bronze Medalist Coleman Scott--to discuss coping with fear, failure and how his preparation prepares athletes for the biggest stages. Support our Sponsor, Defense Soap. Get 15% off any purchase with the coupon code FORWARD. https://www.defensesoap.com/coupon/forward/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Talking 'Ws' with Bellarmine Head Coach Ned Shuck

2025/11/04

With Fred and Brandon, Bellarmine Head Coach Ned Shuck explores the significance of encouragement, the role of parents, and the emotional impact of competition on young athletes. Shuck shares insights on coaching styles, youth development, and the recruiting process, highlighting the need for a supportive environment that nurtures a love for the sport. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Wrestling Community and Coaches 02:39 Building a Positive Youth Wrestling Culture 05:42 The Importance of Encouragement in Youth Sports 08:15 Coaching Styles and Youth Development 11:00 The Role of Parents in Youth Wrestling 13:51 Focusing on Effort Over Wins and Losses 16:20 The Emotional Impact of Competition on Kids 19:22 Recruiting and Parental Influence in Wrestling 22:12 Advice for Young Wrestlers and Their Parents Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jax Forrest Wins U23 Worlds As a High Schooler! His Dad, Howard, Shares The Wrestling Journey of the Forrest Family

2025/10/28

This week's special guest is Howard Forrest, a dedicated father of seven and a passionate supporter of his children's athletic pursuits, particularly in wrestling. The father of world team member and No. 1 pound-for-pound recruit Jax Forrest, Howard shares insights into the challenges and joys of parenting young athletes, emphasizing the importance of encouragement, confidence-building, and maintaining family values. The conversation explores the dynamics of coaching one's own child, the significance of community support, and the need to celebrate individual successes while fostering a healthy competitive spirit among siblings. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Forrest Family and Wrestling Journey 02:43 The Dynamics of Parenting in Sports 05:21 Managing a Large Family's Athletic Commitments 08:23 Jax Forrest: The Making of a Champion 10:48 The Role of Motivation and Competition 13:39 Building Confidence in Young Athletes 16:32 Coaching Challenges and Parent Dynamics 19:12 Positive Reinforcement and Learning from Losses 26:28 Balancing Coaching and Parenting 29:19 Life Beyond the Mat: Hobbies and Friendships 32:55 The Move to Pennsylvania: A Family Decision 36:38 Navigating Success and Pressure in Wrestling 40:59 Character Development and Family Values Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Podcast reviews

Read Pin It Forward podcast reviews

5 out of 5

18 reviews

★★★★★

MSR4L 2026/01/11

Great resource to any youth wrestler parent!

Thank you for sharing your wisdom. Without a doubt, you have changed the way I parent my youth wrestler going forward when it comes to the sport. The ...

★★★★★

toucandoitoutyourbsckintoit 2025/12/16

Amazing podcast!

I have been listening to this podcast since the beginning and every episode has been so informative and helpful for me as a parent to two youth wrestl...

★★★★★

Niki M 2014 2025/12/03

100%

I am very thankful to have been shared this podcast. As a parent I want the best for my kid. Man this is such a great podcast for parents. I mean fee...

★★★★★

Allan247 2025/08/18

Great for coaching and all aspects of wrestling

Provides guidance and assessments for parents with children in wrestling: conversational tone; very knowledgeable hosts, and very good production qual...

★★★★★

Big Dickinson 2025/08/12

Great Pod!

Great work!

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