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PODCAST · kids

The Struggle Bubble

by Chad Kutting and Craig Surgey

The Struggle Bubble is a dynamic podcast that dives deep into the real-life challenges faced by modern professionals, parents, and individuals in high-performance environments. Hosted by Chad Kutting and Craig Surgey, this show offers a raw and honest look at the juggling act of balancing career ambitions, family responsibilities, and personal well-being. Each episode features candid conversations about the pressures of living in tech-centric communities, the evolving landscape of parenting, and the constant push-pull between professional success and personal fulfillment. The hosts share their own experiences and insights, often bringing in guest experts to provide diverse perspectives on navigating life's complexities. The Struggle Bubble is more than just a podcast; it's a community where listeners can find relatable stories, practical advice, and a sense of camaraderie in facing life's everyday struggles. Whether you're a Silicon Valley techie,

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Episodes

  1. Values Over Trophies w/Dai Redwood

    Somewhere along the way, youth soccer stopped being a game kids play and became a product their parents buy. Dai Redwood has spent years building a program he believes in — most recently as the executive and sporting director at Fremont FC — and he's built a club that runs almost opposite to the...

  2. What Sports Parents are Really Yelling At w/Jonathan Carone

    You've been the parent yelling. Or you've been the parent watching the parent yelling and thinking thank God that's not me, also it's kind of me sometimes. That's where Jonathan Carone started Healthy Sports Parents — standing on a sideline watching a dad reduce his nine-year-old to tears…

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  3. Quiet Quitting in Youth Sports

    No guest this week — just Craig and Chad back in the garage, one of them fresh off a dance audition and the other off a baseball playoff thriller. What starts as the Savannah Bananas and a $100 parking ticket at the Giants turns into the most honest money conversation the show has had all season.…

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  4. Your Voice Becomes Their Inner Voice (w/ Dr. Lennie Waite)

    Ep43:Your voice becomes their inner voice (w/ Dr. Lennie Waite) is brough to you by Gaimplan Dr. Lennie Waite is the Chief Science Officer at Hite EQ and covers a range of topics related to mental performance in sports, the impact of social media on youth athletes, and the psychological aspects…

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  5. Step Up or Stay Quiet

    The conversation delves into the world of youth sports and community involvement, highlighting the challenges and rewards of coaching and managing youth sports programs. It also explores the delicate balance between recreational and competitive programs, shedding light on the complexities and...

  6. Your 8-Year-Old Is Not Being Recruited

    Sometime this month, some parents will be posting an All-Star roster their kid just didn't make. Somebody else is signing a five-thousand-dollar ECNL fee. Both families are pretty sure the other families have it figured out. They don't. Craig walks through the actual soccer pyramid in plain…

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  7. The Long Game with Lisa Mitchell

    Our guest this week is Lisa Mitchell. Lisa is the girls varsity head soccer coach at Los Gatos High School, a PE teacher at Fisher Middle School for the last 21 years. She's also a three-time NCAA Final Four captain at Santa Clara, a pro on the 2001 CyberRays team that won the first WUSA...

  8. The Takeover of Youth Sports

    If you've got a kid in travel ball, club soccer, rec hockey, or cheer, you already know the math is getting weird. Chad and Craig spend this episode pulling on that thread — why youth sports has quietly become a $40 billion industry (about 2x the revenue of the NFL), and why that number doesn't...

  9. The Whole Ride: Youth Sports to College Drop-Off

    Rob Ludeman is back. When he first came on The Struggle Bubble in Season 1, his son Matt was a two-sport senior at Los Gatos High — starting at center in football playoffs and on the mount for baseball's post season. Matt's now a freshman pitcher at University of the Pacific, and Rob stopped by…

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  10. You Asked, We Answered

    No guest this week — just Chad and Craig, a stack of listener questions, and zero filter. Craig's fresh off a brutal week commuting to RSA in San Francisco ("two hours to go 55 miles"), and Chad's still processing a nail-biting state cup match in Davis that went to PKs in the final three seconds....

  11. Extend the Timeline, Not the Highlight Reel

    Andrew McRobbie has been in the middle of all of it as Director at All-Stars SC in Saratoga — and as a stepdad who just watched his daughter's soccer career end without knowing it was her last game. Chad, Craig, and Andrew get into the real stuff: why 91% of academy players never play a...

  12. Did You Win? (And Why We Can't Stop Asking)

    Episode 35 Presented by Gaimplan This week it's just Chad and Craig — no guest, no filter, a lot of real talk. They kick things off in the middle of their own Struggle Bubble: Chad's packing for a youth soccer tournament in Davis while baseball opening day looms, and Craig's sneaking in a podcast...

  13. Effort Over Outcome with Heath Clark

    Heath Clark has been coaching football and teaching history at Los Gatos High School since 2008. He's the kind of coach whose former players still come back. He's also the kind of dad who had to stop going to his daughter's flag football games — not because of scheduling, but because a parent...

  14. We're back...again?!

    The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including the start of season two, challenges of podcasting, high school soccer, AI and technology, youth sports, coaching, and the impact of technology on education and sports. The conversation also delves into the importance of feedback, mental...

  15. Back to School: The Struggles of Parenting and Coaching

    In this episode of the Struggle Bubble, Chad and Craig discuss their summer experiences, including a memorable family vacation in Hawaii that involved a tsunami warning. They share insights on the challenges of parenting, coaching youth sports, and the importance of allowing children to pursue...

  16. Navigating the Struggle Bubble of Coaching w/Ricky Clarke

    In this episode of the Struggle Bubble, Chad Kutting and Craig Surgey welcome Ricky Clarke, former head coach with the Houston Dash of the NWSL, who has extensive experience across various levels of the game of soccer. The conversation delves into Ricky's coaching journey, the importance of...

  17. Welcome to Season Two

    In this episode, Chad and Craig welcome listeners back to Season Two of The Struggle Bubble, discussing their experiences in coaching youth sports, particularly soccer and baseball. They delve into the psychological aspects of player development, the importance of communication between coaches…

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  18. Season One Finale

    In this season finale of the Struggle Bubble, hosts Chad Kutting and Craig Surgey reflect on their journey through coaching, parenting, and personal growth. They discuss the challenges of balancing family life with coaching responsibilities, the transition from youth to high school soccer, and…

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  19. Navigating Parenting, Mental Health, and Technology with Genna Lyons

    This week on The Struggle Bubble, we sit down with licensed marriage and family therapist Genna Lyons, who brings over 20 years of experience working with parents, kids, and couples. Genna dives deep into the impact of technology and social media on today’s youth, the challenges of maintaining...

  20. Evolving Family Dynamics in a Corporate World w/Callie Stefani

    in this episode of The Struggle Bubble, we welcome Callie Stefani, Senior Director at AMD, and wife of our previous guest, Austin Stefani. Callie shares her unique perspective on managing a high-powered career in tech, balancing family life, and building a supportive community. Together, we dive...

  21. Juggling Family, Career, and Everything in Between with Jackie Pimentel

    In this episode of The Struggle Bubble, we’re joined by Jackie Pimentel, Director of Ads Product Marketing at Meta, to talk about balancing a high-pressure career, parenting, and life’s curveballs. Jackie shares her experience navigating family life, managing work trips, and the importance of...

  22. Bonus Bubble - October 18th, 2024

    Chad and Craig celebrate their 25th episode reflecting on the contributions of past guests and the importance of fun in youth sports. They discuss the current MLB playoffs, the challenges of coaching in the state cup, and the development of youth soccer amidst changing age regulations. The...

  23. From the Pitch to Parenthood: Ricky Lewis and Leslie Osborne on Family, Soccer, and Building Bay FC

    In this episode of The Struggle Bubble, we’re joined by Ricky Lewis, former MLS player, and Leslie Osborne, former US Women’s National Team and NWSL star. Together, they take us through their incredible journey—from life on the soccer field to raising families and creating a lasting impact with…

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  24. The Struggle with Leading in Sports: Balancing Fandom, Family, and Front-Office Pressure

    In this episode of the Struggle Bubble, Chad Kutting and Craig Surgey sit down with Kelly Cheeseman, COO and Alternate governor of the LA Kings and AEG Sports. They discuss Kelly's extensive career in sports management, the evolution of fan communication, the pressures of remote work, and the...

  25. From Athlete to Advocate with Nate Vandegrift

    In this episode of the Struggle Bubble, hosts Chad Kutting and Craig Surgey welcome Nate Vandegrift, who shares his journey from a passionate young athlete to a dedicated father and professional. Nate discusses the challenges he faced in sports, the consequences of his actions during high school,...

  26. Creating Safe Spaces in Leadership w/Lisa Mims

    In this conversation, Chad and Craig Surgey welcome Lisa Mims, an executive coach, to discuss the intricacies of leadership, work-life balance, and personal growth. Lisa shares her insights on how coaching can help leaders navigate their professional and personal lives, emphasizing the importance...

  27. Bonus Bubble - AI in Youth Coaching

    In this episode, Chad and Craig discuss different aspects of coaching youth sports, including the integration of AI in coaching, the importance of authentic communication, and the dynamics of parent involvement during games. They explore the role of coaches in player development, the challenges…

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  28. Navigating the Waters of Sports and Career w/Mike Donohue

    In this episode, Chad and Craig welcome Mike Donohue, Senior Vice President of Global Sales at GupShop, who shares his journey from competitive rowing to sailing and his experiences on the men's national rowing team. Mike discusses the importance of trying new things, the challenges of…

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  29. Bonus Bubble - Weekly Wrapup

    In this episode, Chad and Craig have a lighthearted and humorous conversation about various topics, including gratitude, their podcast journey, sports, and their children's activities. They express their appreciation for the support they have received and discuss upcoming episodes and sponsors....

  30. Light at the End of the Struggle Bubble Tunnel w/Rob Ludeman

    In this exciting episode of The Struggle Bubble, Chad and Craig sit down with special guest Rob Ludeman to take a deep dive into the world of youth sports and beyond. From early development to high school competition, they break down how sports evolve and the key role they play in shaping skills,...

  31. Labor Day Weekend Recap

    In this episode of The Struggle Bubble, Chad and Craig dive into the whirlwind of youth soccer tournaments, sharing their recent experiences from the sidelines. They explore the highs and lows of juggling multiple games, the emotional rollercoaster of supporting their kids, and the delicate art…

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  32. How to Become a Parent: A Struggle Through the Fertility Gauntlet w/Ben and Julia Kowalczyk

    Childhood friends Ben and Julia Kowalczyk join the Chad and Craig on this week's episode. The conversation details Ben and Julia's struggle with their long-distance relationship and the challenges they faced. They talk about the importance of communication and making sacrifices for love. Julia…

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  33. Resilience: The Key to Success in Sports, Work, and Parenting with Austin Stefani

    In this conversation, Chad and Craig welcome Austin Stefani to the show to discuss various topics related to their personal lives and careers. They talk about their recent activities, the challenges of being a parent, and the importance of work-life balance. Austin shares his journey in sales,...

  34. Intellectual Curiosity w/Yousuf Khan

    Chad and Craig welcome Yousuf Khan, Partner at Ridge Ventures to this week's pod. Yousuf shares his career journey and offers advice for individuals considering starting a company or making a career change. He emphasizes the importance of making decisions, being intellectually curious, and…

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  35. Building a Brand w/Lauren Kutting - CEO ToteSavvy

    In this conversation, Chad and Craig are joined by Lauren Kutting, CEO and founder of ToteSavvy. They discuss topics such as friend camp, dance intensives, and their recent trips. They also delve into the journey of starting and growing ToteSavvy, a brand that offers bag organizers for moms.…

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  36. Leading the League: The Behind-the-Scenes Work of a Little League President

    In this episode of “The Struggle Bubble,” co-hosts Chad Kutting and Craig Surgey dive deep into the intricate duties of a Little League President. Chad, who is also the President of Los Gatos Little League, shares his extensive knowledge on preparing for the season, organizing a board, managing...

  37. Work Life Integration

    In this episode, Chad and Craig discuss the importance of work-life integration in their busy lives. They share personal anecdotes about juggling work, family, and hobbies, and emphasize the need for flexibility and communication. They also touch on the cultural differences between the US and...

  38. Navigating the Struggle Bubble: Reflections, Surprises, and Exciting Guests Ahead

    In this introspective episode, Chad and Craig take a moment to reflect on the journey of the Struggle Bubble podcast so far. They discuss the overwhelming support and positive feedback they've received from listeners across the globe, and how the podcast has resonated with people from all walks…

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  39. Pursuing Passion with Purpose with Stanford Baseball's Thomas Eager

    In this enlightening episode, Chad and Craig sit down with Thomas Eager, pitching coach and recruiting coordinator for Stanford Cardinal Baseball. With Craig donning his coaching hat, the duo draws out Thomas's journey from small-town roots to playing at Cal Poly, getting drafted by the…

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  40. The Balancing Act: Career, Family, and Self with Special Guest Robert Hatta

    Ever felt the crushing weight of relentless work pressure? You're not alone. Join us on Struggle Bubble as we welcome our first live guest, Robert Hatta, who has navigated the high-octane tech scene from Silicon Valley to a more balanced life back in Ohio. Craig’s bright pink headphones might…

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  41. Struggle Bubble Q&A

    In this conversation, Chad and Craig discuss their recent struggles & experiences as parent and answer questions from their listeners. They talk about dealing with their children's health issues, the challenges of coaching youth sports, the importance of humor in parenting, and their evolving...

  42. Accountability in Parenting and Coaching

    In this episode, Chad and Craig discuss the importance of accountability in various aspects of life, including youth sports, personal relationships, and professional settings. They share personal anecdotes and examples to highlight the need for taking ownership of one's actions and choices. They...

  43. Summertime Madness

    On episode 4 of The Struggle Bubble, Chad and Craig dive into the challenges and joys of summertime parenting. From the sudden shift from structured school days to endless free time, to the pressure of filling those days with camps and activities, summer break can be a rollercoaster for both...

  44. The Parental Pressure Cooker

    On this episode of The Struggle Bubble, Chad and Craig tackle the hot topic of parental pressure in youth sports. Are we pushing our kids too hard? What are the consequences of over-involved parents? And most importantly, how can we turn down the heat and create a healthier, more enjoyable...

  45. Who are you?

    Craig and Chad discuss their journey from England and Ohio to California and their backgrounds in sports. Support the show Help support our podcast by subscribing on YouTube, Apple Music, and Spotify. Keep up to date with all things Struggle Bubble on our Instagram Page @thestrugglebubblepod

  46. Introduction to the Struggle Bubble

    Join Chad and Craig as they introduce the Struggle Bubble Podcast. They explore what it takes to juggle being a father, husband, entrepreneur, league administrator, and coach. Support the show Help support our podcast by subscribing on YouTube, Apple Music, and Spotify. Keep up to date with all...

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

The Struggle Bubble is a dynamic podcast that dives deep into the real-life challenges faced by modern professionals, parents, and individuals in high-performance environments. Hosted by Chad Kutting and Craig Surgey, this show offers a raw and honest look at the juggling act of balancing career ambitions, family responsibilities, and personal well-being.

Each episode features candid conversations about the pressures of living in tech-centric communities, the evolving landscape of parenting, and the constant push-pull between professional success and personal fulfillment. The hosts share their own experiences and insights, often bringing in guest experts to provide diverse perspectives on navigating life's complexities.

The Struggle Bubble is more than just a podcast; it's a community where listeners can find relatable stories, practical advice, and a sense of camaraderie in facing life's everyday struggles. Whether you're a Silicon Valley techie,

HOSTED BY

Chad Kutting and Craig Surgey

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does The Struggle Bubble have?

The Struggle Bubble currently has 46 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is The Struggle Bubble about?

The Struggle Bubble is a dynamic podcast that dives deep into the real-life challenges faced by modern professionals, parents, and individuals in high-performance environments. Hosted by Chad Kutting and Craig Surgey, this show offers a raw and honest look at the juggling act of balancing career...

How often does The Struggle Bubble release new episodes?

The Struggle Bubble has 46 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to The Struggle Bubble?

You can listen to The Struggle Bubble on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts The Struggle Bubble?

The Struggle Bubble is created and hosted by Chad Kutting and Craig Surgey.
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