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.
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.
In this episode of The Sports Parenting Playbook, we sit down with Coach Ballgame (James Lowe)—a coach known for his infectious energy, creative approach, and deep love for baseball.
Together, we explore:
Coach Ballgame’s journey is a reminder that sports are about joy, community, and lifelong memories—not just wins and losses.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Season 2- Episode 1- Building Confidence, Trying New Sports & Tackling Screen Time
In this episode of So You Want Your Kids to Be Great at Sport, hosts Kirk Bowyer and Ben Russell dive into the importance of outdoor play, building confidence in children, and how to create positive sporting experiences for young people.
From overcoming the barriers that stop kids from trying new sports to understanding the impact of screen time on their development, Kirk and Ben share practical advice for parents, coaches, and anyone passionate about helping children enjoy being active.
The conversation also explores the growing popularity of paddle and pickleball, why the environment shapes kids’ enjoyment of sport, and how feedback from parents can improve sports programs and opportunities.
🎧 Highlights include:
Packed with practical tips, real-life examples, and inspiring insights, this episode is all about helping kids build confidence, stay active, and develop a lifelong love for sport.
🌐 Learn more about Mini Athletics: Helping children build confidence, coordination, and a love of movement — www.miniathletics.com
📲 Follow us for more insights and updates:
Instagram & Facebook: @thegreatatsportpodcast
⭐ Enjoying the podcast? Leave a review and help us grow a community where positive youth sport thrives.
🎧 Produced and Edited by Rob Sillito
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosts: Ben Russell, Kirk Bowyer
Guest: Sean Patrick, Educator & Author of The Emotional Shoes
In this inspiring episode of So You Want Your Kids to Be Great at Sport, Ben Russell and Kirk Bowyer are joined by Sean Patrick—educator, coach, and author of The Emotional Shoes. Drawing on his experiences in both coaching and physical education, Sean offers a thoughtful take on how to build emotional strength, movement skills, and a lasting love of sport in young people.
The conversation explores the crucial early role parents play in shaping a child’s sporting journey, and how expectations—when not aligned with a child's needs—can quickly turn passion into pressure. Sean shares his philosophy on the importance of teaching movement before sport-specific skills, the role of PE in building positive associations with activity, and how competition should be a tool for growth, not just a measure of success.
Together, the trio unpacks Sean’s "Three E’s of Coaching"—expectations, energy, and effort—and why these simple principles can change the way kids experience sport. They also dive into his book The Emotional Shoes, which aims to help young athletes navigate the emotional ups and downs that come with competitive environments.
Key Takeaways:
Mini Athletics: Help your child build confidence and coordination through our fun, inclusive programs. Learn more at www.miniathletics.com
Follow Us: Get stories, advice, and episode highlights on Instagram and Facebook @thegreatatsportpodcast
Enjoying the podcast? Leave a review to help us grow a community where positive youth sport thrives.
Subscribe so you never miss an episode of So You Want Your Kids to Be Great at Sport—where character, care, and creativity are always in play.
🎧 Produced and Edited by Rob Sillito
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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 Little—a 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 coaching—energy, empathy, communication, and character—and 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:
Mini Athletics: Discover how our fun and inclusive programs help children fall in love with sport at 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 thoughts—it 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 Sport—where character, care, and creativity are at the heart of every game.
🎧 Produced and Edited by Rob Sillito
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosts: Ben Russell, Kirk Bowyer
Episode Summary:
In this insightful episode of So You Want Your Kids to Be Great at Sport, hosts Ben Russell and Kirk Bowyer dive deep into one of the most debated topics in youth athletics: early specialization. Drawing from personal stories, research, and coaching experience, they explore why encouraging kids to try multiple sports may be the key to long-term athletic success—and enjoyment.
Ben and Kirk unpack the myths around the 10,000 hour rule, the hidden downsides of single-sport focus at a young age, and the powerful role parents play in shaping their child’s sporting journey. They also highlight how many top athletes actually benefited from broad, multi-sport backgrounds before finding their niche.
This conversation is a must-listen for any parent wondering how to best support their child’s development—not just as an athlete, but as a confident, well-rounded mover.
Key Takeaways:
Mini Athletics: Learn more about our programs and how we’re helping kids develop sports skills in a fun, supportive environment at www.miniathletics.com
Follow Us: Stay connected for more tips, inspiration, and episodes on Instagram and Facebook @thegreatatsportpodcast
Leave Us a Review: Enjoyed the episode? Drop us a quick review—it helps more people discover the podcast and supports our mission to keep youth sports fun and meaningful.
🎧 Produced and Edited by Rob Sillito
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosts: Ben Russell, Kirk Bowyer, Nathan Tyson
Guest:Coach Kevin, Founder of Athletic Development Games
Episode Summary:
In this energizing episode of So You Want Your Kids to Be Great at Sport, hosts Ben Russell, Kirk Bowyer, and Nathan Tyson are joined by Coach Kevin from Athletic Development Games—a passionate youth coach and the mind behind the PlayBoost initiative. Together, they explore how play, joy, and creativity are essential ingredients in developing physically literate and confident young athletes.
Kevin shares his journey into youth coaching, the inspiration behind ADG, and how his approach focuses on fun, freedom, and foundational skills over early specialization. The conversation delves into the power of imaginative play, how parents can foster athletic development at home, and why serious training too early can actually hold kids back.
They also explore the growing community around these ideas, the role social media plays in spreading positive messages, and how playful parenting can create stronger bonds and better athletes.
Key Takeaways:
Mini Athletics: Learn more about our programs and how we’re helping kids develop sports skills in a fun, supportive environment at www.miniathletics.com
Follow Us: Stay connected for more tips, inspiration, and episodes on Instagram and Facebook @thegreatatsportpodcast
Leave Us a Review: Enjoyed the episode? Drop us a quick review—it helps more people discover the podcast and supports our mission to keep youth sports fun and meaningful.
Don’t forget to hit subscribe!
Thanks for joining us on So You Want Your Kids to Be Great at Sport—where the journey to greatness starts with play.
🎧 Produced and Edited by Rob Sillito
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this thought-provoking episode of So You Want Your Kids to Be Great at Sport, hosts Ben Russell, Kirk Bowyer, and Nathan Tyson are joined by Natalie Weir, a leading expert in physical literacy and movement education. Together, they dive deep into what physical literacy really means, why it’s crucial for child development, and how it can be meaningfully integrated into sport and education.
Natalie helps unpack the four key domains of physical literacy, emphasizing that it’s not just about physical skills—but also about building confidence, motivation, and understanding in movement. The conversation touches on the importance of enjoyable and creative experiences in sport, how to strike the right balance between structured and unstructured play, and why a little chaos might be just what kids need to fall in love with being active.
The group also explores common barriers to physical literacy—like increased screen time and rigid systems in early education—and how parents and educators can foster environments that encourage freedom, exploration, and movement.
Mini Athletics: Learn more about our programs and how we’re helping kids develop sports skills in a fun, supportive environment at www.miniathletics.com
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 platform—it helps others find the show and ensures we keep delivering top-notch content.
Don’t 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 child’s sporting journey begins!
🎧 Produced and Edited by Rob Sillito
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this inspiring episode of So You Want Your Kids to Be Great at Sport, hosts Ben Russell, Kirk Bowyer, and Nathan Tyson welcome the legendary Adebayo Akinfenwa. Known for his incredible strength, resilience, and infectious personality, Adebayo takes us on a journey through his football career, sharing stories from his playing days—including his time as a teammate of Nathan Tyson at Wycombe Wanderers.
Adebayo reflects on his footballing inspirations, particularly how Liverpool icon John Barnes influenced his path into the sport. He also opens up about his approach to supporting his own children as they take their first steps in football, emphasizing the importance of encouragement, patience, and enjoyment in the game.
Beyond football, Adebayo speaks candidly about handling criticism and setbacks with a positive mindset. His philosophy of self-belief and perseverance offers valuable lessons for young athletes, parents, and coaches alike. This episode is packed with motivation, humor, and practical advice on embracing challenges and staying mentally strong in the face of adversity.
Stories from Adebayo’s playing days, including his time with Nathan Tyson at Wycombe Wanderers.
How John Barnes inspired Adebayo’s love for football and shaped his journey.
His approach to supporting his children as they start their footballing careers.
The power of a positive mindset in overcoming criticism and setbacks.
Lessons on resilience, self-belief, and staying motivated in the face of challenges.
Adebayo Akinfenwa Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adebayoakinfenwa
Mini Athletics: Learn more about our programs and how we’re helping kids develop sports skills in a fun, supportive environment at www.miniathletics.com
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 platform—it helps others find the show and ensures we keep delivering top-notch content!
Don’t 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 child’s sporting journey begins!
🎧 Produced and Edited by Rob Sillito
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosts: Ben Russell, Kirk Bowyer, Nathan Tyson
Guest: Matt Taylor, Founder of Full Swing Tennis
Episode Summary:
In this insightful episode of So You Want Your Kids to Be Great at Sport, hosts Ben Russell, Kirk Bowyer, and Nathan Tyson sit down with Matt Taylor, the founder of Full Swing Tennis. Matt shares his expertise on how parents can best support their children’s athletic journey—without overstepping.
The conversation delves into the crucial role of parental support in youth sports, focusing on the importance of giving coaches the space to do their jobs. Matt emphasizes that while it’s natural for parents to want the best for their kids, sometimes the best thing they can do is take a step back and let the coaching process unfold. The episode discusses how this “hands-off” approach can lead to healthier, more positive experiences for young athletes, and how parents can help cultivate confidence and independence in their children.
Matt also shares practical advice on how parents can be involved in their child’s development while respecting the boundaries between home life and coaching life.
Key Takeaways:
Resources Mentioned:
Mini Athletics: Learn more about our programs and how we’re helping kids develop sports skills in a fun, supportive environment at www.miniathletics.com
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 platform—it helps others find the show and ensures we keep delivering top-notch content!
Don’t 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 child’s sporting journey begins!
Produced and Edited- Rob Sillito
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosts: Ben Russell, Kirk Bowyer, Nathan Tyson
Guest: Allistair McCaw, Best-Selling Author & Mindset Expert
Episode Summary:
In this powerful episode of So You Want Your Kids to Be Great at Sport, hosts Ben Russell, Kirk Bowyer, and Nathan Tyson are joined by best-selling author and mindset expert Allistair McCaw. With his wealth of experience working with top sports personalities, Allistair shares valuable insights on how developing a strong mental game can set kids up for success—both in sport and in life.
Allistair’s approach, rooted in his book Lead with Purpose, Make an Impact, emphasizes the importance of mindset, focus, and resilience. He discusses how parents and coaches can help young athletes build mental toughness, embrace challenges, and develop a growth mindset from an early age. Allistair also breaks down key strategies for managing pressure, staying motivated, and staying positive—skills that can help children thrive not only in sports but in any area of their lives.
Whether you’re a parent, coach, or athlete, this episode is packed with actionable advice on how to cultivate a powerful and purposeful mindset.
Key Takeaways:
The critical role mindset plays in the development of young athletes.
Practical strategies for building mental toughness and resilience.
How to help kids manage pressure, overcome setbacks, and stay motivated.
Insights from Allistair’s best-selling book Lead with Purpose, Make an Impact and how it can apply to youth sports.
Tips for parents and coaches to foster a growth mindset in children.
Links and Resources Mentioned:
Allistair McCaw Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bechampionminded/
Buy Allistair McCaw's Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CNM1VCV8?ref_=cm_sw_r_apin_dp_XEM43ZBS55BYBP1QHQVH&language=en-US
Mini Athletics: Learn more about our programs and how we’re helping kids develop sports skills in a fun, supportive environment at www.miniathletics.com
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 platform—it helps others find the show and ensures we keep delivering top-notch content!
Don’t 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 child’s sporting journey begins!
Produced and Edited- Rob Sillito
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosts: Ben Russell, Kirk Bowyer, Nathan Tyson Guest: Ross Burbeary
Episode Summary:
In this episode of So You Want Your Kids to Be Great at Sport, hosts Ben Russell, Kirk Bowyer, Nathan Tyson and Ross Burbeary dive into one of the most pivotal moments in a child’s sporting development – the car journey home after practice or a game. They explore how this seemingly small part of the day can have a massive impact on a child’s growth, confidence, and love for the sport. The episode focuses on the role parents play in shaping their child’s experience through the language they use, the way they offer feedback, and the importance of emotional support during this time.
Whether it's dealing with a tough loss, celebrating a victory, or navigating the pressures of competition, the language parents use can either build or break their child’s connection to sports. Tune in as the hosts discuss how to make the most of this time, offering practical tips for turning post-game conversations into opportunities for learning and growth.
Key Takeaways:
The importance of the car journey home as a space for reflection and emotional support.
How the language parents use can directly impact a child’s confidence, enjoyment, and long-term development in sports.
Practical advice for creating a supportive environment after games and practices.
Insights from experienced coaches and athletes on fostering a healthy mindset in young athletes.
Links & Resources:
Mini Athletics: Learn more about our programs and how we’re helping kids develop sports skills in a fun, supportive environment at www.miniathletics.com
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 platform—it helps others find the show and ensures we keep delivering top-notch content!
Don’t 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 child’s sporting journey begins!
Produced and Edited- Rob Sillito
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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 play—rather than being the best—can 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 we’re helping kids develop sports skills in a fun, supportive environment at www.miniathletics.com
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 platform—it helps others find the show and ensures we keep delivering top-notch content!
Don’t 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 child’s sporting journey begins!
Produced and Edited- Rob Sillito
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In This Episode:
Join our hosts—Ben Russell (Mini Athletics Franchise Growth Manager), Kirk Bowyer (Co-founder of Mini Athletics), and Nathan Tyson (Mini Athletics Nottingham and Loughborough, and retired professional footballer)—as they dive into how to help your child enjoy sport. Each episode will brings practical advice, expert tips, and real-life experiences to inspire parents and coaches to guide young athletes on the path to greatness.
Whether you're new to sports or a seasoned parent on the sidelines, our podcast offers fresh perspectives and actionable advice to help your child become the best athlete they can be—while having fun and building lifelong skills.
Links & Resources:
Mini Athletics: Learn more about our programs and how we’re helping kids develop sports skills in a fun, supportive environment at www.miniathletics.com
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 platform—it helps others find the show and ensures we keep delivering top-notch content!
Don’t 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 child’s sporting journey begins!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.