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In this episode of The Thinklete Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Alec Baker, a clinical psychologist specializing in sports and family dynamics, to discuss parental pressure, the mental side of youth sports, and how family dynamics impact athletic performance. We talk about recognizing when pressure goes too far, helping athletes navigate big emotions and mistakes, finding the right coach, and the unique challenges and strengths of athletes with ADHD. Because youth sports should be about more than winning. They should be about helping our kids grow, build confidence, and fall in love with the game.

In this episode, Derek and Aleka sit down with clinical psychologist Dr. Courtney to explore why supporting kids with ADHD goes far beyond any one treatment. While medication can be an effective tool for some families, Dr. Courtney explains the importance of looking at the whole child—including sleep, nutrition, movement, routines, emotional regulation, executive functioning, confidence, and the parent-child relationship. They also discuss practical ways parents can create structure without constant nagging, build independence, use praise more intentionally, manage screen time, and help their child develop skills they can carry into adulthood. The goal isn't just managing ADHD symptoms today. It's helping kids become confident, resilient, and capable adults tomorrow.

In this episode, we sit down with Allison Solomon, ADHD parenting coach, educator, and founder of ADHD Parenting Boot Camp. As a mom of three boys with ADHD—and someone with ADHD herself—Allison brings both personal experience and professional expertise to the conversation. We talk about raising ADHD athletes, performance anxiety, perfectionism, inconsistent performance, and helping kids build self-advocacy and a stronger mental game. Allison also shares what she wishes she had done differently while raising a talented athlete—and why your child's sport should be something they do, not who they are.

Are today's parents helping—or unintentionally hurting—their young athletes? In this powerful episode of the Thinklete Podcast, Derek and Aleka sit down with Kirsten Jones—former Nike executive, Division I Hall of Fame athlete, bestselling author of Raising Empowered Athletes, and one of the leading voices in youth sports parenting. Together they unpack why youth sports have become more stressful than ever, how parents can stop chasing outcomes, and what actually builds confidence in athletes—especially those with ADHD and other neurodivergent brains. In this conversation, you'll learn: Why parents should be potters, not promotersHow to build lasting confidence instead of chasing trophiesThe biggest mistakes parents make on the sidelinesWhy body language matters more than talentHow to help ADHD athletes handle criticism and coachingThe "3 Fs" every young athlete needs: Friends, Fun, and FundamentalsWhy college coaches care more about character than statisticsHow to make the car ride home after games a positive experienceWhy listening is one of the greatest parenting skills in sportsWhether you're raising an elite athlete or simply want your child to love sports for life, this episode is packed with practical strategies you can use immediately. Connect with Kirsten Jones:🌐 KirstenJonesInc.com If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the Thinklete Podcast, leave a review, and share it with another parent or coach who wants to help young athletes build confidence, resilience, and a lifelong love of sports.

After losing their son Anthony at just 18 years old, Tony and Cassi made a promise that no family should have to navigate the challenges of ADHD alone. That promise became Anthony's Road to Kindness—a nonprofit dedicated to helping families find hope, guidance, and the right support system for neurodivergent children. In this powerful conversation, we discuss Anthony's journey from his early ADHD diagnosis and struggles with bullying, learning differences, and self-esteem to the lasting impact he continues to have on thousands of families today. Tony and Cassi share how they built a unique roadmap that connects families with ADHD coaches, psychologists, tutors, education advocates, nutritionists, therapists, and other specialists so parents no longer have to navigate the journey alone. We also dive into the role parents and coaches play in shaping confidence, why traditional discipline often fails with ADHD athletes, the importance of finding each child's strengths, overcoming negative self-talk, and why having an entire team speaking the same language can completely change a child's future. Whether you're raising a neurodivergent child, coaching young athletes, or simply want to better understand ADHD, this episode is filled with practical advice, hope, and a powerful reminder that every child deserves people who believe in them.

Why do so many ADHD athletes get labeled as "too emotional," "not paying attention," or "badly behaved" when the reality is something completely different? In this episode of The Thinklete Podcast, Derek and Aleka are joined by Thinklete mentor Janie Kokakis—former Division I track athlete, speech-language pathologist, and ADHD parent—to have an honest conversation about the stigma surrounding ADHD athletes. Together, they discuss: Why emotional outbursts aren't a sign of weakness or bad parentingThe hidden strengths of ADHD athletes and why they often care the mostHow executive functioning impacts sports performanceWhy visualization should include mistakes—not just successThe importance of accountability, emotional regulation, and resilienceHow parents and coaches can better support neurodivergent athletes without taking away their love of the gameWhether you're a parent, coach, or athlete, this episode will challenge common misconceptions and give you practical insights into helping ADHD athletes build confidence, manage pressure, and thrive both on and off the field. If you've ever felt judged because your child struggles emotionally during competition, this conversation is for you. For more information about our mentorship program, please visit Thinklete.com

Our guest this episode is Amy Pieczarka, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) with over 40 years of experience specializing in functional nutrition, gut health, food sensitivities, and personalized nutrition strategies. She is the creator and director of PrevyMedica Nutrition Services, where she helps individuals and families improve focus, regulation, health, and performance through nutrition.Most parents are trying to coach behavior… without realizing what may actually be driving it.In this episode, Derek and Aleka sit down with registered dietitian nutritionist Amy Pizarca to break down the connection between nutrition, emotional regulation, focus, and performance in neurodivergent athletes.They discuss:-Why ADHD athletes often have higher nutritional demandsThe gut-brain connection and how it impacts behavior-Food sensitivities and inflammation-Why blood sugar regulation matters for focus and emotional control-How nutrition affects neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin-Strategies for selective eaters and sensory-sensitive kids-Pre-game and post-game fueling tips-What parents can do if ADHD medication suppresses appetiteSimple changes families can start making immediatelyThis conversation connects a lot of dots for parents who feel like they’ve tried everything.If you’ve ever wondered whether nutrition could be impacting your child’s focus, confidence, emotional regulation, or sports performance — this episode is for you.PreviMedica IG: https://www.instagram.com/previmedica/

In this episode, Derek and Aleka sit down with Michael McLeod, founder of GrowNOW ADHD, creator of the Internal Skills Coaching Model, and an award-winning speaker with over 20 years of experience helping kids and families navigate ADHD and executive functioning challenges. As the author of The Executive Function Playbook and a leading voice in ADHD development, Mike’s work centers on owne core idea: kids with ADHD don’t lack intelligence—they lack an “internal GPS.” This conversation challenges the traditional view of ADHD, reframing it as a disorder of executive functioning, not attention. Instead of focusing on surface-level behaviors like hyperactivity or eye contact, Mike explains why real growth comes from building internal skills—self-awareness, emotional regulation, motivation, and independence. Throughout the episode, he breaks down why many common parenting and coaching approaches—like constant reminders, lectures, or forcing accountability—often backfire by increasing dysregulation and creating more conflict. ADHD is not about attention—it’s about performance and internal skill gaps. Kids need experiences, not constant verbal correction, to build executive functioning. Emotional regulation improves when adults remove attention during dysregulation, not add more. The car ride home after games is critical—say less, not more. True accountability develops through natural consequences, not forced apologies. Parents should aim for an authoritative approach with clear structure and less negotiation. Coaches and parents can use a simple framework: “ready vs. not ready” behavior. Sports and movement are some of the most effective ways to build the ADHD brain. This episode will change how you think about ADHD—and give you practical tools to help your child build confidence, regulate emotions, and succeed both on and off the field. Follow Mike: https://www.instagram.com/grownowadhd/

In this episode, Derek sits down with Special Olympics athlete leaders Declan Fawcett and Amanda Harrinauth, along with Alyssa Cress, Manager of Inclusive Leadership Development for Special Olympics North America, to explore the true meaning of leadership, inclusion, and opportunity. Together, they share how Special Olympics has created a space where athletes can not only compete, but lead—amplifying their voices, shaping their communities, and breaking down misconceptions around intellectual disabilities. From powerful personal stories to practical insights on coaching, parenting, and mentorship, this conversation highlights a simple but important truth: Inclusion isn’t about doing more—it’s about listening, understanding, and creating space for every athlete to thrive. You’ll learn: How leadership opportunities transform confidence and identityWhy “nothing about us without us” is critical in sport and lifeWhat great coaches and mentors do differentlyHow parents and communities can better support neurodivergent and differently wired athletesThis episode is a reminder that being different isn’t a limitation—it’s an edge. Learn more about Special Olympics at SpecialOlympics.org Follow: @SONorthAmerica #ChooseToInclude #neurodivergentathletes #differentisyouredge

What if the biggest threat to your child’s development isn’t failure… but the environment they’re in? In this episode, we sit down with Jennifer Frazier—best-selling author of The Bullied Brain and The Gaslit Brain—to unpack the hidden impact of bullying, toxic coaching, and psychological abuse in youth sports. A former award-winning educator who taught at the University of Toronto, Jennifer left her career after exposing the coverup of student abuse—fueling her mission to bring brain science into youth sports. Her work has reached #1 on Amazon in sport psychology, been endorsed by leading neuroscientists, and influenced organizations across North America. In this conversation, we break down how “old school coaching,” verbal abuse, and humiliation don’t just hurt feelings—they can actually change brain development in young athletes. You’ll learn: How bullying impacts the brainWhy toxic environments are often normalizedWarning signs parents missWhy neurodivergent athletes are more vulnerableHow to build healthier, high-performing environments🎯 Because toughness should never come at the cost of a child’s brain.

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Cat Lutz, Director of Mental Performance at IMG Academy, to break down what truly separates elite athletes from the rest—and why it has far more to do with mindset than talent. With over a decade of experience working with athletes from youth to professional levels—and a background as a Division I athlete and professional basketball player herself—Cat brings both lived experience and elite-level expertise in sport psychology. We explore how IMG Academy builds high-performing athletes through a holistic system that integrates mental performance, coaching, academics, and family support. The conversation dives deep into confidence, resilience, and the mental skills that actually drive long-term success—especially for neurodivergent athletes. You’ll learn: The real traits that separate elite athletes (beyond physical ability)How to support neurodivergent athletes by leaning into their strengthsWhy overcoaching hurts performance—and what to do insteadSimple tools like breathwork, focusing on controllables, and reframing challengesHow to build confidence and resilience in everyday momentsWhether you’re a parent, coach, or athlete, this episode delivers practical strategies and a powerful new perspective on performance, development, and what it really takes to win—on and off the field. Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/catherine-lutz44 IG: @610_Performance

Youth sports should build confidence, resilience, and character. But too often, pressure, comparison, and adult expectations get in the way.In this episode of Thinklete, Derek Shunk sits down with John O’Sullivan, internationally recognized TEDx speaker and founder of the Changing the Game Project. Since launching the organization in 2012, John has helped schools, clubs, and sports organizations around the world create healthier environments for young athletes.John is the author of three #1 bestselling books — Changing the Game, Every Moment Matters, and Champion Teammate — and host of the Way of Champions Podcast, one of the most respected podcasts in the world for coaches.A former collegiate and professional soccer player with over 20 years of coaching experience, John has consulted with organizations including the US Olympic Committee, US Soccer, USA Football, USA Lacrosse, USA Swimming, Ireland Rugby, and Aussie Rules Football. He also serves on the National Advisory Boards for the Positive Coaching Alliance and the National Association for Physical Literacy.In this conversation, Derek and John break down what the best coaches in the world actually do differently—and how parents and coaches can reshape the youth sports experience so kids don’t just perform, they grow.In this episode we discuss:• The biggest mistakes parents make in youth sports• Why early performance is a poor predictor of long-term success• The dangers of early specialization and year-round competition• How to develop resilience, confidence, and intrinsic motivation in young athletes• Why fun and joy are essential for long-term athlete developmentThe ultimate message: kids get one childhood — youth sports should make it a great one.🎙️ Follow John at instagram.com/ctgprojecthq✔️ Check out his website: https://changingthegameproject.com/

On this episode of Thinklete, Derek Shunk sits down with Emma Lapierre, an Accredited Social Worker specializing in athlete mental health, to explore the unique mental pressures athletes face—especially neurodivergent athletes navigating performance, perfectionism, emotional regulation, and burnout. Emma shares both professional insight and personal experience as a former athlete, offering practical guidance for parents and coaches supporting neurodivergent kids in sports. Derek also opens up about real challenges he’s faced as a parent of a neurodivergent athlete, leading to an honest conversation about pressure, confidence, coaching environments, and building sustainable mental strength. If you're a parent, coach, or athlete trying to balance competition, confidence, and mental health, this episode provides practical strategies and a powerful reminder: success in sport starts with understanding how each athlete’s brain works. About Emma LapierreEmma Lapierre is an Accredited Social Worker with a background in mental health and sport social work. She supports young athletes and their families as they navigate performance pressure, confidence challenges, and the emotional ups and downs that come with competitive sport. Drawing on both professional training and lived experience, Emma has a strong interest in supporting neurodivergent athletes to identify their strengths and thrive in sport. Learn more about Emma:🌐 www.rysewellbeing.com.au📧 [email protected] 📱 Instagram:@mindfultherapistem@rysewellbeing

On almost every team, there are young athletes who want to succeed. They look capable. They understand the game. They care. But something isn’t clicking.They’re inconsistent. They overreact. They miss instructions. And too often, they get labeled lazy, unfocused, or "uncoachable".But what if the issue isn’t effort? What if it’s processing??In this episode, Derek sits down with Dr. Timothy Baghurst and Dr. Christopher Stanley, co-authors of Reach Every Athlete, to explore how coaches can better support athletes with hidden disabilities and neurodivergent conditions — including ADHD, autism spectrum differences, learning disabilities, processing challenges, and more.This conversation challenges the one-size-fits-all coaching model and reframes breakdowns in performance as understanding gaps — not discipline failures.This episode is not about lowering standards. It’s about coaching with more precision.Because when you understand how an athlete processes the world, you don’t reduce expectations — you remove unnecessary barriers.If you’re a parent, volunteer coach, high school coach, or athletic director, this is a must-listen conversation.🎙️ About Out Guests:Dr. Christopher Stanley is a sport and performance psychology professor and coach specializing in athlete development and neurodivergence in sport. He co-authored Reach Every Athlete, helping coaches better support athletes with hidden disabilities and processing differences. Learn more about Dr. Stanley ➡️ https://www.uws.edu/faculty/byname/ch...Dr. Timothy Baghurst is Director of FSU COACH at Florida State University and a leading scholar in athletic coaching education. He co-authored Reach Every Athlete, focusing on practical strategies to help coaches create more effective, inclusive environments.Learn more about Dr. Baghurst ➡️ https://www.timbaghurst.com/📕 Purchase their book, 'Reach Every Athlete' ➡️ https://www.amazon.com/Reach-Every-At...

Every parent says they just want what’s best for their kid.But in youth sports, that line gets blurry fast.When does support turn into pressure?When does coaching cross into control?And how do you raise a competitive athlete without damaging the relationship?In this episode of Thinklete, Derek sits down with Ben Cecchini, author of Full-Time Parent… Part-Time Coach, to unpack the real challenges parent-coaches face today.This conversation dives into:How to be caring, fun, and fair in youth sportsThe difference between intention and impact in communicationWhy the post-game car ride matters more than you thinkPraising the process vs. praising performanceTeaching grit without yellingUsing breathwork and emotional regulation as a coachLetting go of ego in youth sportsRaising resilient athletes without burnoutBen shares practical tools for balancing competitiveness with connection — and why your primary job is always to be a parent first.If you’re coaching your child…If you’ve ever left a game frustrated…If you care about long-term development more than trophies…This episode is for you.📚 Learn More from Ben Cecchini ⬇️📸 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/givengrow.co/?hl=en🌱 Give & Grow:https://www.giveandgrow.co📘 Full-Time Parent… Part-Time Coach: A Practical Guide for How to Be a Caring, Fun, and Fair Youth Sports Coachhttps://www.amazon.ae/Full-Time-Parent-Part-Time-Coach-Practical/dp/0578706458