Athletes IN Sports | The Parent Playbook

In this episode of the Athletes IN Sports Podcast, we sit down with former NFL quarterback Brooks Bollinger to talk about the reality of youth sports — from the perspective of a player, coach, and parent of five kids.Brooks shares his journey from growing up in Grand Forks, to leading Wisconsin to a Rose Bowl, to playing in the NFL, and ultimately transitioning into life after football. But more importantly, he gets honest about what he’s learned along the way — especially when it comes to parenting kids through sports today.We dive into:The biggest mistakes youth sports parents are makingHow to handle wins, losses, and tough car ride conversationsWhy sports shouldn’t define your childWhat playing quarterback taught him about leadership, failure, and life after the gameThe challenges athletes face when transitioning into the “real world”And how he now applies those lessons in business and at homeThis episode was recorded live at the Minnesota Golf Show, where Brooks also shares how the mental game from football carries over to golf — and life.👉 If this episode resonates with you, please share it with a parent, coach, or athlete who needs to hear it.🤝 This Episode is Brought to You By The InSports FoundationThe InSports Foundation is dedicated to helping kids and families access sports opportunities regardless of financial barriers. Through free camps, scholarships, and team sponsorships, InSports is working to reduce the cost of youth sports and create more opportunities for kids to learn, grow, and compete.To learn more or support the mission, visit:www.insportsfoundation.org

In this episode of the Athletes in Sports Podcast, we sit down with MTV’s The Challenge star Nelson Thomas to talk about the hardest decision of his life—choosing to amputate his foot after a devastating car accident.Nelson shares his journey from growing up without a father, to finding identity through sports, to building a name on reality TV… and ultimately facing a moment that forced him to redefine who he is.We talk about:Losing his identity as an athleteThe mental health battles that followed traumaWhy you can’t bury pain and expect it to disappearHow faith, community, and resilience helped him rebuildAnd what it truly means to Be the Best YouNow, as an amputee and aspiring Paralympian, Nelson is using his story to inspire others and prove that there are no limits to what you can overcome.This is a raw, honest conversation about adversity, perspective, and choosing to move forward when life doesn’t go as planned.This episode is powered by the InSports Foundation.InSports is on a mission to get more kids in the game by reducing the cost of sports through camps, scholarships, and team sponsorships—helping young athletes build confidence, character, and mental well-being through sports.Learn more at insportsfoundation.org

We’re live at Viking Lakes for the Joy of the Pond Mite Jamboree with Minnesota Vikings rookie offensive lineman Donovan Jackson.Donovan shares his journey from playing multiple sports as a kid in Texas to becoming a first-round NFL draft pick, along with the mindset, discipline, and work ethic that helped him get there. He talks about the importance of having fun in youth sports, building confidence, and why the small habits you build early can make all the difference.From “erasing the whiteboard” after a bad play to embracing the competitive drive of “if I’m not doing it, someone else is,” this episode is packed with lessons for young athletes, parents, and coaches alike.We also hear Donovan’s advice for kids, what he learned from his parents and coaches growing up, and what it really takes to succeed at the highest level.—This episode is brought to you by the InSports Foundation, helping kids get in the game through scholarships, camps, and team support.Special thanks to Vibe Hockey, title sponsor of the Joy of the Pond event.

In sports — and in life — failure isn’t optional. It’s required.In this episode of Athletes in Sports, Mike Welch, Tournament Director of the 3M Open and former Minnesota Timberwolves executive, shares how sports shape resilience, leadership, and confidence in kids and adults alike.This conversation explores:Why athletes fail more than they succeed — and why that mattersHow youth sports prepare kids for business and real-world pressureParenting competitive athletes without burning them outCoaching your own child and handling wins and losses the right wayWhy development matters more than rankings, teams, or titlesFrom youth sports to professional sports leadership, this episode is packed with lessons for parents, coaches, athletes, and professionals navigating high-performance environments.This episode is powered by the InSports Foundation and the 3M Open.

Pro golfer Carson Herron joins the Athletes in Sports Podcast to share his journey from being a kid who didn’t even want to play golf—because he’d rather go to Chuck E. Cheese—to chasing his dream of competing at the PGA level.Growing up as the son of PGA Tour veteran Tim “Lumpy” Herron, Carson opens up about the pressure of legacy, being labeled “Lumpy Jr.,” and how he learned to develop his own golf identity. He breaks down the mental side of the game, how working with a mental performance coach changed his approach under pressure, and why focusing on process over results is the key to long-term success.Carson also shares what it felt like standing on the first tee at the John Deere Classic, playing the 3M Open in his home state on his birthday, winning the Minnesota State Open, and preparing for opportunities on the global stage.This episode is a must-listen for athletes, parents, coaches, and golfers looking to understand mindset, resilience, and what it really takes to chase big dreams.Learn more about our mission: InSportsFoundation.org

Two-time U.S. Open champion and longtime ESPN analyst Andy North joins Max Smith and Andrew Deters onsite at the Sanford International to talk all things golf—mindset, majors, and making the game better for kids.From the pressure of standing over a must-make putt to why multi-sport youth development matters, Andy shares hard-earned lessons, candid takes on LIV vs. PGA, and what Tiger’s future on the senior circuit could realistically look like. He also opens up about Midwest grit, bouncing back from injuries, the joy of junior golf, and his Andy North & Friends philanthropy fighting cancer. Plus: a peek at his voice-activated “caddie” app concept.We cap the episode with a free youth golf clinic in partnership with InSports Foundation and First Tee—because exposure to the game can change a kid’s life.HighlightsMental game under pressure (staying present on 18)Tiger’s senior eligibility & the Senior U.S. OpenLIV vs. PGA: why the split persistsAdvice for parents: avoid early specializationThe value of junior golf & PGA Junior LeaguePhilanthropy, community, and growing the gameIf this conversation helped you, share it with a parent, coach, or young athlete—and follow Athletes IN Sports for more.This episode is brought to you by the ‪InSports Foundation helping kids get in the game through free camps, scholarships, and team sponsorships. Learn more or support the mission at www.InSportsFoundation.org.

Natalie Darwitz is a Minnesota hockey legend, three-time Olympian, and one of the most influential figures in women’s hockey. In this episode of the Athletes IN Sports Podcast, Natalie shares her journey from growing up with an older brother and sister, strapping on My Little Pony roller skates, and breaking into a sport where few girls played, to becoming captain of Team USA.She opens up about:Learning resilience while playing with the boysThe cutthroat process of making an Olympic teamThe importance of free play in youth sportsLessons from coaching her own kidsWhy hockey — and sports in general — are about more than competitionWhether you’re a parent, coach, or athlete, Natalie’s insights on perseverance, youth development, and the life lessons sports teach will leave you inspired.This episode is brought to you by the InSports Foundation, an organization dedicated to helping kids get in the game by providing free camps, scholarships, and team sponsorships. To learn more or support the mission, visit InSportsFoundation.org.

Welcome to Athletes IN Sports—the podcast that goes beyond the game to uncover the stories that shape elite athletes.In this episode, we sit down with Izzy Ashburn, former University of Wisconsin volleyball standout and national champion. Izzy shares how her parents’ steady support shaped her work ethic, resilience, and ability to thrive through the highs and lows of college athletics.She opens up about:Why playing multiple sports as a kid gave her an edge in volleyballHow intentional habits helped her balance academics, travel, and D1 competitionThe role of culture and team standards in building a championship programWhy identity beyond sports is essential for long-term happiness and successPacked with heartfelt stories and practical advice, this conversation is a must-listen for athletes, parents, and coaches who want to understand what it really takes to succeed—on and off the court.🌟 Featured Guest: Izzy Ashburn🤝 Sponsors: InSports Foundation x Athlusion📍 Location: MN Select Volleyball🎤 Hosts: Max Smith, Bridget Smith, Andrew Deters💡 Co-Host: Chad Welk, Co-Founder/CEO Athlusion🎧 Tune in now and discover what it means to pursue excellence with balance, intentionality, and passion.💡 This episode is brought to you by the InSports Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to giving kids the chance to participate in sports regardless of financial barriers. Just like Izzy’s story, our mission is about helping the next generation find their passion, build confidence, and thrive both on and off the court.

In this episode of the Athletes IN Sports Podcast, hosts Max Smith and Andrew Deters sit down with Tom Buske — former University of Minnesota baseball player and founder/CEO of MASH Baseball.Tom shares his journey from growing up in Apple Valley and competing in 50 games a summer, to pitching for the Gophers, and ultimately building one of Minnesota’s most respected baseball training facilities. He opens up about:The lessons youth athletes (and parents) can take from the game of baseballWhy culture, confidence, and community matter more than raw talentThe challenges and rewards of running MASH — and what’s next with their new school and fields projectHow coaches and parents can better support kids through the ups and downs of sportsWhether you’re an athlete, coach, parent, or sports fan, Tom’s perspective on mindset, development, and culture will leave you inspired.👉 Be sure to subscribe, share this episode with someone who loves sports, and check out InSportsFoundation.org to support opportunities for kids in sports.

In this episode of Athletes IN Sports, hosts Max Smith and Andrew Deters sit down with former University of Minnesota quarterback Adam Weber to explore his journey from leading the Gophers on the field to navigating the challenging transition into professional football. Adam shares the highs and lows of pursuing NFL and CFL opportunities, what ultimately led him to hang up the cleats, and how the lessons he learned in sports now drive his success in the business world. Packed with insights on resilience, adaptability, and leadership, this conversation offers valuable takeaways for athletes, parents, coaches, and business professionals alike.Powered by the InSports Foundation — helping kids participate in sports through free camps, scholarships, and team sponsorships.

In this exclusive live episode of the Athletes IN Sports podcast, host Max Smith sits down with Minnesota Wild General Manager Bill Guerin—right from inside the Wild penalty box. With the backdrop of the “Get IN” wall branded by Innovative Office Solutions, this conversation dives into the grit, leadership, and long-term vision behind one of the NHL’s most passionate franchises.Bill opens up about his journey from Stanley Cup champion to front office architect, how the Wild are positioning themselves for a new era of success, and what resilience and culture truly mean in today’s game. Plus, Max challenges Bill on the age-old debate: is the real "State of Hockey" Minnesota... or Massachusetts?This episode was made possible by Innovative Office Solutions, proud supporter of Minnesota sports and the “Get IN” mentality seen inside the Wild penalty box.Powered by the InSports Foundation—an organization dedicated to helping kids participate in sports by providing financial assistance through free camps, scholarships, and team sponsorships. Learn more about their mission and consider making a donation today.

In this episode of the Athletes IN Sports podcast, host Max Smith sits down with Michael Floyd, former NFL wide receiver and Minnesota native, for a candid conversation on life after football. Michael reflects on his journey from playing under the lights at Notre Dame and in the NFL to finding a new purpose in real estate and his growing love for golf.He opens up about the transition out of pro sports, how the discipline of football shaped his approach to business, and why staying competitive—whether on the field or the fairway—still fuels him. This episode is packed with insight for athletes navigating career changes, fans of the game, and anyone chasing their next chapter.This episode is powered by the ‪InSports Foundation an organization dedicated to helping kids participate in sports by providing financial assistance through free camps, scholarships, and team sponsorships. Learn more about their mission at ‪ ⁠⁠and consider making a ⁠donation⁠ today.

In this episode of the Athletes IN Sports podcast, host Max Smith sits down with Charlie Sutherland and Kyle Remmington, standout players for the University of Minnesota Gopher Baseball team.They dive deep into what it is really like to be a Division I college athlete today—balancing school, competition, and the growing conversation around NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals. Charlie and Kyle share how they stay focused on the field, why NIL has not distracted their love for the game, and the mental strategies they use to prepare before and during high-pressure moments.Whether you are an athlete, coach, parent, or fan, this conversation offers real insights into the mindset and resilience it takes to thrive at the next level.This episode is powered by the ‪InSports Foundation an organization dedicated to helping kids participate in sports by providing financial assistance through free camps, scholarships, and team sponsorships. Learn more about their mission at ‪ ⁠⁠and consider making a ⁠donation⁠ today.

Live from Joy of the Pond: A Conversation with NFL Linebacker Blake CashmanPresented by the InSports Foundation and proudly sponsored by InnovativeIn this special live episode of the Athletes IN Sports podcast, hosts Max and Bridget Smith sit down with Minnesota Vikings linebacker Blake Cashman in front of a packed crowd at Joy of the Pond—a 38-team mite hockey jamboree hosted by the InSports Foundation.Blake opens up about his journey from youth sports in Minnesota to the NFL, the power of resilience, and the life lessons that sports continue to teach him. He shares his mental strategies for staying at the top of his game, gives advice to young athletes, and yes—we ask him about those famous Vikings defense dance moves!This inspiring conversation is packed with motivation, laughs, and practical insights for athletes, parents, coaches, and fans alike.🎧 Tune in and get inspired by one of Minnesota’s own—Blake Cashman.

Join us for a special bonus episode of the Athletes IN Sports Podcast featuring former Wisconsin Volleyball player Izzy Ashburn as she shares her journey to becoming a Division 1 athlete. This session, hosted by Bridget Smith of the InSports Foundation, took place at our free Volleyball Camp at the MN Select Volleyball Center and is packed with inspiring insights and practical advice.Our Be The Best You Sessions focus on three essential life skills:1️⃣ Goal Setting – Learn how Izzy set and achieved ambitious goals.2️⃣ Self-Confidence – Hear Izzy’s advice on staying confident under pressure.3️⃣ Self-Regulation – Discover how Izzy mastered staying focused and composed, even in tough situations.Whether you're an athlete, coach, or parent, this episode is full of lessons to help you elevate your game—on and off the court!🎙️ Don’t miss this inspiring conversation with one of volleyball’s brightest stars.🔔 Subscribe for more stories from athletes and tips to help you Be The Best You!

In this episode, we sit down with former PGA Tour player Donald Constable to dive deep into the mental side of sports and life. Donald shares his journey from playing Division 1 college golf for the Texas Longhorns and Minnesota Golden Gophers to competing on the PGA Tour, Web.com Tour, and PGA Tour Canada. Growing up in Minnetonka, Minnesota, Donald honed his athletic skills across multiple sports before focusing exclusively on golf in high school. Donald’s passion for the mental game shines through as he shares valuable insights and strategies for building mental toughness, staying focused under pressure, and developing resilience—both on and off the golf course. Whether you’re an aspiring athlete, a seasoned competitor, or someone looking to elevate their mindset in everyday life, this conversation is packed with practical tips and inspiring stories. Be sure to follow, subscribe, and stay connected for more interviews with influential athletes and coaches. This episode is powered by the ‪InSports Foundation‬—a non-profit organization dedicated to helping kids participate in sports by providing financial assistance through free camps, scholarships, and team sponsorships. Learn more about their mission and consider making a ⁠donation⁠ today.

In this episode, we sit down with Josh Levine, Founder of The Fortis Academy, to explore how sports can shape athletes far beyond the physical game. Josh shares his philosophy of training the ‘whole athlete’—focusing on mental toughness, emotional strength, and leadership skills alongside physical development. Drawing from his background in youth hockey, track, and soccer, Josh reflects on the importance of free play, keeping sports fun, and creating environments where kids thrive for longer. As a coach, speaker, and author, Josh also delivers valuable insights for parents and coaches on how to positively influence young athletes, build resilience, and foster a lifelong love for sports. Whether you’re a coach, parent, or athlete, this conversation will inspire you to think differently about youth sports and leadership. Plus, learn how Josh has helped grow community programs like the InSports Foundation’s Joy of the Pond Mite Jamboree and supported initiatives like bringing Richfield hockey back. Be sure to follow, subscribe, and stay connected for more interviews with influential athletes and coaches. This episode is powered by the InSports Foundation an organization dedicated to helping kids participate in sports by providing financial assistance through free camps, scholarships, and team sponsorships. Learn more about their mission at ‪ ⁠⁠and consider making a donation today.

Step into the world of Division 1 athletics at a military college with Mike Fitzgerald, a former basketball player at the Air Force Academy. In this episode, Mike shares his journey of balancing the rigorous demands of college sports with the discipline of military training. From overcoming unique challenges to serving our country after graduation, Mike provides a raw and inspiring account of the lessons learned and the impact of his experiences. Whether you’re an athlete, a veteran, or someone who values perseverance, this episode is packed with insights and motivation. Be sure to follow, subscribe, and stay connected for more interviews with influential athletes and coaches. This episode is powered by the InSports Foundation‬ ⁠, an organization dedicated to helping kids participate in sports by providing financial assistance through free camps, scholarships, and team sponsorships. Learn more about their mission at ‪ ⁠⁠⁠www.insportsfoundation.org⁠.

In this inspiring episode of Athletes IN Sports, we sit down with Walter Bond, former NBA player and Hall of Fame Keynote Speaker. Walter dives into the invaluable life lessons sports can teach kids, including the importance of independence, decision-making, and resilience. Drawing from his background in both athletics and business, Walter shares his perspective on why kids need unstructured playtime—sports without parents keeping score or enforcing rules—so they can grow into strong, capable adults. Walter also talks about how he helps small businesses elevate their internal culture and training through powerful sports analogies, making this episode a must-listen for both parents and professionals alike. To learn more about how Walter can help your business, visit www.walterbond.com. Be sure to follow, subscribe, and stay connected for more interviews with influential athletes and coaches. This episode is powered by the ⁠InSports Foundation⁠, an organization dedicated to helping kids participate in sports by providing financial assistance through free camps, scholarships, and team sponsorships. Learn more about their mission at ‪ ⁠⁠www.insportsfoundation.org.

In this powerful Athletes IN Sports episode, former Indianapolis Colts Super Bowl Champion Ben Utecht dives deep into the transformative power of sports and the lifelong skills it builds. We talk with Ben about the thrill of winning the Super Bowl, the invaluable mentorship from his coach Tony Dungy, and the lasting impact sports have on character, leadership, and integrity. Ben also shares why he believes sports are essential for kids, fostering resilience, teamwork, and a performance-driven mindset that transfers to life and business. Don’t miss this episode packed with insights for athletes, parents, and professionals alike! Be sure to follow, subscribe, and stay connected for more interviews with influential athletes and coaches. This episode is powered by the InSports Foundation, an organization dedicated to helping kids participate in sports by providing financial assistance through free camps, scholarships, and team sponsorships. Learn more about their mission at ‪ ⁠www.insportsfoundation.org

In this episode of Athletes IN Sports, we sit down with former NHL defenseman Nate Prosser, best known for his time with the Minnesota Wild. Nate shares his unique journey of playing multiple sports growing up and not focusing on hockey until he was 17. We dive into his transition from high school to the USHL with the Sioux Falls Stampede, his college career at Colorado College, and his role as a great locker room presence and man of faith in the NHL. Now a father of four daughters, Nate talks about coaching his girls and working with True North Equity Partners. Join us for an inspiring conversation about sports, family, and faith. Be sure to follow, subscribe, and stay connected for more interviews with influential athletes and coaches. This episode is powered by the InSports Foundation, an organization dedicated to helping kids participate in sports by providing financial assistance through free camps, scholarships, and team sponsorships. Learn more about their mission at ‪ ⁠www.insportsfoundation.org

In this episode of the Athletes in Sports podcast, we sit down with Pete Follese, CEO of National Insurance Brokers and a former college golfer from Forest Lake, Minnesota. Pete shares how his experiences on the golf course at Crookston University shaped his approach to leadership and business. We dive into his insights on the importance of mental health, staying physically active, and how these factors contribute to success both on and off the course. Plus, we explore Pete's role in launching the Broken Club golf networking group, which supports the InSports Foundation and The First Tee - Minnesota. Don't miss this inspiring conversation! Be sure to follow, subscribe, and stay connected for more interviews with influential athletes and coaches. This episode is powered by the InSports Foundation, an organization dedicated to helping kids participate in sports by providing financial assistance through free camps, scholarships, and team sponsorships. Learn more about their mission at ‪ www.insportsfoundation.org.

In this episode of the Athletes IN Sports Podcast, we sit down with Ty McDevitt, Head Coach for Minnesota Gopher Baseball, to discuss the road to success in college athletics, the art of recruiting, and the importance of developing student-athletes both on and off the field. Ty shares his insights on leadership, coaching strategies, and how Gopher Baseball is building a winning culture. From navigating the challenges of recruiting to fostering a team-first mentality, Ty provides valuable lessons for anyone passionate about sports, teamwork, and personal development. Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with actionable advice and stories that inspire!Be sure to follow, subscribe, and stay connected for more interviews with influential athletes and coaches.This episode is powered by the InSports Foundation, an organization dedicated to helping kids participate in sports by providing financial assistance through free camps, scholarships, and team sponsorships. Learn more about their mission at ‪www.insportsfoundation.org.

In this episode of the Athletes IN Sports podcast, we sit down with Lindsey Bomgren, founder of Nourish Move Love, a fitness platform that has inspired countless people to stay active and live healthier lives. Lindsey shares her journey from being a Division III volleyball player to becoming a successful entrepreneur and social media influencer. She opens up about her mission to make fitness free and accessible to everyone and discusses the challenges and rewards of building a business around her passion for helping others. Tune in as we explore the intersection of sports, entrepreneurship, and community impact. This episode is sponsored by the InSports Foundation, an organization dedicated to helping kids participate in sports by providing financial assistance through free camps, scholarships, and team sponsorships. Learn more about their mission at InSports Foundation.

In this episode, we dive into the inspiring journey of how a simple idea turned into a lifelong mission. It all began when Max Smith, who grew up in an entrepreneurial family, felt a deep sense of purpose after volunteering at homeless shelters during high school. That experience planted the seed for what would eventually become the InSports Foundation. Fast forward to college, where Max met Andrew Deters and Bridget Smith. The three of them shared a passion for giving back and a love for sports. Together, they took that initial spark and turned it into something much bigger—a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to helping kids access the life-changing benefits of sports. Today, the InSports Foundation has impacted over 60,000 kids by providing free camps, scholarships, and team sponsorships. In this episode, Max, Andrew, and Bridget share the story behind the foundation, the challenges they faced, and how they turned a college passion into a thriving organization that continues to make a difference in the lives of thousands of children. Tune in to learn about the heart and hustle behind the InSports Foundation, and how you can get involved in their mission to give every child the chance to play.

In this episode of the Athletes IN Sports podcast, we sit down with NHL player Vinni Lettieri to discuss his remarkable journey from a multi-sport youth athlete to a professional hockey player. Growing up playing both hockey and soccer, Vinni faced the unique challenge of balancing his passions with the expectations of his father, a professional soccer player. Vinni made the pivotal decision to leave soccer behind. This led him to become the kicker for Minnetonka Football, ultimately focusing his athletic talents on hockey. Following high school, Vinni played in the USHL before committing to four successful years with the Minnesota Golden Gophers. Since 2016, Vinni has been showcasing his skills in both the NHL and AHL, playing for various teams. In our conversation, Vinni shares how relentless hard work in the gym and dedication to mastering simple skills paved his way to the NHL. He also opens up about an exciting new chapter: launching a foundation with his wife aimed at helping kids who are in the hospital. Join us for an inspiring discussion about perseverance, the importance of family support, and the impact of giving back to the community.

Welcome to Athletes IN Sports, the podcast that dives deep into the lives of athletes, uncovering the stories behind their success on and off the field/court. In this captivating episode, we welcome Mara Braun, a standout basketball player from the University of Minnesota. Mara shares her unique perspective on the importance of playing multiple sports and how this approach has shaped her athletic career and personal development. Mara takes us through her journey of healing from a significant injury, offering valuable insights into the mental and physical challenges she faced and the resilience required to bounce back stronger. She also opens up about the complexities of dealing with the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) world as both an athlete and a student, highlighting the balance between leveraging opportunities and maintaining focus on her sport and academics. Whether you're an athlete, a sports enthusiast, or someone navigating the challenges of balancing multiple roles, this episode offers a wealth of inspiration and guidance. 🌟 Featured Guest: Mara Braun   🤝 Charity Partners: Special Olympics & InSports Foundation   📍 Location: Johnson Highschool   🎤 Hosts: Max Smith x Andrew Deters  

Welcome to Athletes IN Sports, the podcast that dives deep into the lives of athletes, uncovering the stories behind their success on and off the field. This episode features Minnesota Vikings player Josh Metellus who takes us on an inspiring journey through the realms of sports, personal growth, and the power of manifesting your future. Join Josh as he shares his personal experiences, lessons learned on and off the field, and the mindset that has propelled him to success. Whether you're a sports enthusiast, aspiring athlete, or someone striving for personal excellence, it’s an episode you won’t want to miss!   🌟 Featured Guest: Josh Metellus   🤝 Sponsors: Innovative Office Solutions x InSports Foundation   📍 Location: TCO Stadium 🎤 Hosts: Max Smith x Bridget Smith x Andrew Deters