Hoops & Crumbs with the Browns

Esteban starts with zero chill about the Toronto Raptors, and honestly, it’s the kind of playoff frustration every NBA fan recognizes. We talk about what went wrong when the games actually mattered, why a thin supporting cast gets exposed in a Game 7, and what a real rebuild could look like if you’re willing to have the uncomfortable conversations. If you love basketball analysis, roster debates, and the emotional roller coaster of being a fan, you’ll feel seen. Then Mother’s Day takes a turn we didn’t expect: Maria and Esteban run the Sporting Life 10K together. We unpack the soreness, the mental grind of continuous distance running, and the one moment every runner chases when you finally “hit your stride.” Esteban connects it back to basketball in a way that makes it click, and he drops a simple tip that applies to training, work, and life: when you find momentum, protect it. The heart of the story is what happens on the course when a kid runs ahead and doesn’t look back. Maria shares a parenting memory from toddlerhood and explains why that split-second felt like pride and loss at the same time. We also go deeper with a Mother’s Day Q&A on what we want most for a child, what we’d pass down, and the lesson Maria learned after years of motherhood: keep an identity outside your child, because independence is the whole point. Listen now, then subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a review if our mix of basketball talk and real life lessons hits home. What part of growing up has been the hardest to watch or the best to celebrate?Have a question for us to ask each other? We’d love to hear it!Follow us on Instagram @hoopsandcrumbs and share your thoughts! We are always looking for questions to ask each other on the #doubledoublehttps://www.instagram.com/hoopsandcrumbs?igsh=MTBmNjFkOTBueGE2NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

We fell behind on our own podcast promise, and it wasn’t because we stopped caring. Life got loud: countries crossed, weekends filled with basketball, homework piling up, and the simple truth that recording takes time you have to fight for. So we’re back in the studio to reset, reintroduce ourselves, and be honest about what happens when good goals collide with real schedules.From there, the conversation turns into a travel diary with teeth. Esteban shares what it was like visiting Cuba right before major changes and hearing shutdown news while trying to get out. We swap notes on what makes a place memorable, from history and monuments to the best moments of “living like a local.” We also recap a Dallas basketball tournament that didn’t go our way and the frustration of learning a team got removed after allegedly playing older athletes. Then Curacao tops it all with a first scuba dive that goes from turtles and reefs to an unexpected jellyfish swarm.The second half gets personal in the best way: the pressure of being a teenager, a student-athlete, and a kid who still needs time to breathe. We talk about AP math stress, why “just do extra work” can feel impossible, and how parents can support without turning every day into a performance review. We also share what actually helps with stress relief, including music, friends, and even fashion as self-care, plus why a meaningful piece from the Vatican can carry more confidence than any trend.If you’ve been searching for conversations about parenting teenagers, teen mental health, student-athlete balance, time management, and realistic motivation, come listen and tell us what part hit home. Subscribe, share this with a busy parent or overwhelmed teen, and leave a review so more people can find Hoops And Crumbs. What’s one trade-off you’re tired of making?Have a question for us to ask each other? We’d love to hear it!Follow us on Instagram @hoopsandcrumbs and share your thoughts! We are always looking for questions to ask each other on the #doubledoublehttps://www.instagram.com/hoopsandcrumbs?igsh=MTBmNjFkOTBueGE2NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

We rewind a full year of travel, tournaments, tough losses, and quiet wins to find the moments that mattered and the habits that actually stick. From Dallas to Italy to a cottage by the lake, we share what we learned, what we’re chasing next, and why hope still leads.• first solo basketball trip to Dallas and early podcast milestones• family time in Vancouver and 100 downloads in the second month• Italy in March and the value of imperfect travel days• cross-country work travel to New York, Nashville, and LA• birthday tournament, meeting a favorite creator, and a great family dinner• stepping away from dance after ten years and making space in the schedule• Huntsville friendships, summer camp bonds, and a cottage reset• Winnipeg reunion and the start of basketball season• Blue Jays heartbreak and the case for 2026 optimism• December travel wins, gratitude for listeners, and plans ahead“Join us next time, next year in 2026 for more hoops and crumbs on Apple Podcasts... Spotify, Amazon Music, and everywhere else you can find your favorite podcasts”Have a question for us to ask each other? We’d love to hear it!Follow us on Instagram @hoopsandcrumbs and share your thoughts! We are always looking for questions to ask each other on the #doubledoublehttps://www.instagram.com/hoopsandcrumbs?igsh=MTBmNjFkOTBueGE2NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

We trade the timer on the oven for the shot clock, moving from a cake-filled kitchen recap to bold picks for the NBA’s Christmas Day slate, then settle into family traditions, travel plans, and the cozy rituals that make the season feel like home. A warm, thoughtful look at what we bake, who we back, and the memories we keep.• chocolate, carrot, and sticky toffee date cake recap and why simple bakes win• Christmas Day NBA preview with Knicks vs Cavaliers and Spurs vs Thunder highlights• star power, momentum, and home-court energy as predictors• first Christmas spent apart and travel plans to Cuba and Fiji• Nochebuena memories, midnight Mass, and Chinatown takeout tradition• cozy rituals that restore: decorating, wrapping, fireplace time, and rest from training• keeping Lola’s traditions alive with Christmas Eve dinner• goals for more episodes and a request for listener topic ideasJoin us for more Hoops and Crumbs on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and everywhere you listen. Get your flu shot, folks. Drop ideas in our DMs on Instagram so we can hit three more episodes before year-end.Have a question for us to ask each other? We’d love to hear it!Follow us on Instagram @hoopsandcrumbs and share your thoughts! We are always looking for questions to ask each other on the #doubledoublehttps://www.instagram.com/hoopsandcrumbs?igsh=MTBmNjFkOTBueGE2NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

The mics are back on & the oven is warm. We catch up on two fast months that packed in a Winnipeg homecoming, a Toronto Blue Jays playoff ride that took over our screens, and a kitchen marathon of cheddar biscuits, sticky toffee pudding cake, and oatmeal chocolate chip cookies. It’s equal parts comfort food and clutch moments.September felt like a reset. Winnipeg brought us back to family, old stories, and the kind of easy love that makes a city feel like home. The reunion turned social media acquaintances into real hugs and reminded us why showing up matters. October turned the dial up: a birthday planned around steak and baseball, holiday hosting with smoked turkey, and the shared ritual of watching games with people you love. The Jays fell short, but the journey stitched together restaurants, living rooms, and a lot of hopeful innings.Looking ahead, we split paths in November. Esteban leans into exams, back-to-back games, and new music drops. Maria boards a flight to Spain for a fall adventure. We talk honestly about time management, what we missed about recording together, and how to protect one-on-one time when life gets crowded. We set simple goals—finish strong at school, maybe attempt a freezing lake swim, definitely record four more episodes before year-end—and we celebrate a delightful surprise: listeners across 16 countries tuning into our small corner of basketball, baking, and everyday life.If you’re here for family stories, sports heartbreaks that turn into inside jokes, or recipes that double as love letters, you’ll feel at home. Press play, ride the highs and lows with us, and stick around for the promise: more hoops, more crumbs, more real talk. If this episode made you smile, share it with a friend, hit follow, and leave a quick review so more people can find our little kitchen-court combo.Have a question for us to ask each other? We’d love to hear it!Follow us on Instagram @hoopsandcrumbs and share your thoughts! We are always looking for questions to ask each other on the #doubledoublehttps://www.instagram.com/hoopsandcrumbs?igsh=MTBmNjFkOTBueGE2NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Esteban and Maria return to the podcast after a summer break, discussing the challenges of balancing 5AM basketball practices with school demands, and their mantra for the year: "Keep Your Doors Open."• Chocolate chip sour cream cake taste test kicks off the episode• Summer highlights including a cottage vacation and visiting friends from camp• Coach Z's no-nonsense approach and focus on discipline• Esteban's goals to be more assertive on the court and improve defensively• The importance of not limiting yourself academically• Mental challenges of pushing beyond comfort zones• Advice for students returning to school: don't fall behind by getting caught up in social distractions• Grade 10 as a crucial year for establishing academic foundationsJoin us for more Hoops and Crumbs on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and everywhere else you can find your favorite podcasts. We'll talk about basketball, cookies, and share other random life musings.Have a question for us to ask each other? We’d love to hear it!Follow us on Instagram @hoopsandcrumbs and share your thoughts! We are always looking for questions to ask each other on the #doubledoublehttps://www.instagram.com/hoopsandcrumbs?igsh=MTBmNjFkOTBueGE2NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

In this first episode of a new season, Esteban starts a series called "Shooting Hoops & Chasing Dreams" where he interviews folks about their careers as he starts to think about carving out his own path. With summer break winding down in 4 weeks, it's time to get that future mindset going again. For the first installment of this series, Esteban sits down with Jeff, who shares his journey from corporate success to founding his own business, offering practical advice and inspiration for aspiring business owners. His story highlights how identifying market gaps and persisting through challenges can lead to entrepreneurial success. Follow us on Instagram @hoopsandcrumbs with your questions for future episodes and join us next time for more basketball, cookies, and life musings. Send us a message if you've got an idea for who should be featured next for another segment of "Shooting Hoops & Chasing Dreams"!Have a question for us to ask each other? We’d love to hear it!Follow us on Instagram @hoopsandcrumbs and share your thoughts! We are always looking for questions to ask each other on the #doubledoublehttps://www.instagram.com/hoopsandcrumbs?igsh=MTBmNjFkOTBueGE2NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

The Browns are back at the microphones after a busy April hiatus, returning with their signature blend of basketball talk and life reflections that make Hoops and Crumbs so delightful.Esteban kicks things off with a lively NBA playoffs update, sharing his excitement about matchups like Detroit versus New York and the Lakers taking on Minnesota. For basketball enthusiasts, his breakdown provides the perfect appetizer before the episode dives into deeper waters.The heart of this episode revolves around a series of thought-provoking questions that Maria and Esteban take turns asking each other. Their answers reveal fascinating glimpses into their personalities and perspectives. When asked who he would choose as presidential advisors, Esteban thoughtfully selects family members known for their intelligence, along with his basketball coach for physical and emotional support—a choice that reflects both his values and priorities.Perhaps the most engaging moment comes during their debate about whether money can buy happiness. This generational difference in perspective creates a moment many families will recognize and relate to.Other highlights include discussions about what makes their blended family unique, who Maria would choose for a dream dinner party (Victoria Beckham, Oprah, and Jason Bateman at dim sum), and whether it's better to excel at one skill or be competent in many.Listen now to experience this warm, genuine conversation between mother and son, and stay tuned for their promised Mother's Day special episode coming soon!Have a question for us to ask each other? We’d love to hear it!Follow us on Instagram @hoopsandcrumbs and share your thoughts! We are always looking for questions to ask each other on the #doubledoublehttps://www.instagram.com/hoopsandcrumbs?igsh=MTBmNjFkOTBueGE2NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Seven questions that every parent should ask their child—this powerful framework creates the backdrop for one of our most revealing and heartfelt conversations yet. Maria puts teenage son Esteban in the hot seat, exploring everything from his deepest fears to his proudest moments in an exchange that showcases both vulnerability and growth.What begins with casual banter about chocolate croissants and French NBA players quickly evolves into profound territory as Esteban opens up about his wish for a younger sibling, his complicated relationship with personal accomplishments, and his fear of missing out on typical teenage experiences. The conversation reveals the unique challenges faced by a young athlete attending a highly specialized school with only six classmates—all while pursuing academic excellence and basketball dreams.For parents listening, this episode offers both a template for meaningful conversations and a window into the adolescent mind. The questions discussed provide a framework that any family can use to deepen their connections before it's too late. Whether you're raising teenagers, have adult children, or are simply curious about parent-child dynamics, this conversation will leave you reflecting on your own family relationships and the questions you wish you'd asked—or still can.Have a question for us to ask each other? We’d love to hear it!Follow us on Instagram @hoopsandcrumbs and share your thoughts! We are always looking for questions to ask each other on the #doubledoublehttps://www.instagram.com/hoopsandcrumbs?igsh=MTBmNjFkOTBueGE2NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Ten episodes in and 250 downloads spread across eight countries later, we're celebrating with blueberry cornbread and reflections on our Italian adventure! Taking you with us through the cobblestone streets of Rome, Florence, and Venice, we unpack what surprised us most about Esteban's first European journey.From duck pasta to eggplant parmesan, we dive into our favorite meals and special moments - like finding shelter from rain in a cozy Florentine café, savoring cappuccinos and citrus cake while watching the world go by. Perhaps most meaningful were the unhurried family moments between destinations, reminding us that sometimes the best travel souvenirs are the connections strengthened along the way. Having transformed Esteban from reluctant traveller to world explorer with 17 countries under his belts in just four years, he's already dreaming about his next adventure. Where should we go next? Drop your suggestions in our Instagram DMs @HoopsandCrumbsHave a question for us to ask each other? We’d love to hear it!Follow us on Instagram @hoopsandcrumbs and share your thoughts! We are always looking for questions to ask each other on the #doubledoublehttps://www.instagram.com/hoopsandcrumbs?igsh=MTBmNjFkOTBueGE2NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

The Canada.ca website tells us that "The Government of Canada’s theme for International Women’s Day 2025 is Strength in every story.This year’s theme highlights the importance of amplifying the voices of all women, particularly those who continue to face barriers to success. Creating opportunities for women and girls unlocks their potential and drives innovation, supports Canada’s economy, and helps ensure a sustainable future for all.Every woman’s story is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of opportunity. This International Women’s Day, celebrate the women and girls in your life and share their stories."Join Esteban & Maria as they host their very first guest "Auntie Heather" - one of Maria's closest friends and a most formidable woman as they talk about womanhood, accomplishments and adversities. There really is strength in every story.Have a question for us to ask each other? We’d love to hear it!Follow us on Instagram @hoopsandcrumbs and share your thoughts! We are always looking for questions to ask each other on the #doubledoublehttps://www.instagram.com/hoopsandcrumbs?igsh=MTBmNjFkOTBueGE2NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

According to a Stats Can website, "in 2022, 99% of young Canadians aged 15-24 used the Internet and 91% used social networking sites". In this Fourth Quarter Convo, Esteban and Maria talk about teens and social media usage, the pros and cons of being active on social media and the influence that SM platforms have on people & especially younger people. The world that 14 year olds navigate today is vastly different from a 14 year old in the late 80s-early 90s and this episode highlights those differences.Join Esteban & Maria as they trade views on this topic while snacking on some red velvet cupcakes.  https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/11-627-m/11-627-m2024005-eng.htmHave a question for us to ask each other? We’d love to hear it!Follow us on Instagram @hoopsandcrumbs and share your thoughts! We are always looking for questions to ask each other on the #doubledoublehttps://www.instagram.com/hoopsandcrumbs?igsh=MTBmNjFkOTBueGE2NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

This week, Maria tests Esteban's aptitude for basketball stats. Do YOU know who NBA record for the most field goals in a game without a miss? One hint - the record was set this week in 1967!Stick around and join their conversation on friendship - What do you look for in a  friend? Who would you want to be friends with - living or alive? What gives you the friendship ick?All of this conversation over a nice slice of crumbly coconut orange marmalade cake and a glass of milk.Enjoy!Have a question for us to ask each other? We’d love to hear it!Follow us on Instagram @hoopsandcrumbs and share your thoughts! We are always looking for questions to ask each other on the #doubledoublehttps://www.instagram.com/hoopsandcrumbs?igsh=MTBmNjFkOTBueGE2NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

It didn't take long for technical difficulties to find Esteban & Maria - their cheapie podcast set up failed but they persevered and still found a way to get their latest episode to you while snacking on some double chocolate chip cookies. This week, they talk about the hard hitting world of fashion - The Swish! The Drip! There's lots to discuss like what is the most coveted item on Esteban's list, who his basketball style icon is (any guesses?) and what Maria REALLY thinks about those controversial bootcut jeans. Have a question for us to ask each other? We’d love to hear it!Follow us on Instagram @hoopsandcrumbs and share your thoughts! We are always looking for questions to ask each other on the #doubledoublehttps://www.instagram.com/hoopsandcrumbs?igsh=MTBmNjFkOTBueGE2NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Benched by a bad cold, Esteban perseveres to give us a play by play of his first team trip to another country. There are some lessons learned and good memories made with a little celebration to start.Thanks to everyone who has joined us on this journey so far!Have a question for us to ask each other? We’d love to hear it!Follow us on Instagram @hoopsandcrumbs and share your thoughts! We are always looking for questions to ask each other on the #doubledoublehttps://www.instagram.com/hoopsandcrumbs?igsh=MTBmNjFkOTBueGE2NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Esteban is going to dive into the topic of divorce from the eyes of a 14 year old in this episode. He does not pull any punches when putting his mom in the hot seat and he shares what it's like as a child who grew up in two homes in a brave and authentic way. If you're a parent looking for ways to talk to your kids about living in two homes or if you're a kid wondering what your parents may have been thinking, this is a great jump off point to learning more. They tackle this serious topic in a lighthearted but genuine manner that's sure to spark conversations.Grab a snack and tune in!Follow us on Instagram @hoopsandcrumbs and share your thoughts! We are always looking for questions to ask each other on the #doubledoublehttps://www.instagram.com/hoopsandcrumbs?igsh=MTBmNjFkOTBueGE2NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qrHave a question for us to ask each other? We’d love to hear it!Follow us on Instagram @hoopsandcrumbs and share your thoughts! We are always looking for questions to ask each other on the #doubledoublehttps://www.instagram.com/hoopsandcrumbs?igsh=MTBmNjFkOTBueGE2NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

In this episode, Maria & Esteban keep it short and dish out what food means to them. Learn what their favourite foods are, what kitchen smells make them the happiest and more! Send them a DM to let them know what YOUR favourite foods are. Grab a snack and tune in!Have a question for us to ask each other? We’d love to hear it!Follow us on Instagram @hoopsandcrumbs and share your thoughts! We are always looking for questions to ask each other on the #doubledoublehttps://www.instagram.com/hoopsandcrumbs?igsh=MTBmNjFkOTBueGE2NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

In this episode, Esteban & Maria look back on the holiday season and plan out Q1. Learn who is the GOAT in Esteban's eyes, Maria's favourite foods and join them for their first double double. https://www.instagram.com/hoopsandcrumbs/?igsh=MTBmNjFkOTBueGE2NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr#  Have a question for us to ask each other? We’d love to hear it!Follow us on Instagram @hoopsandcrumbs and share your thoughts! We are always looking for questions to ask each other on the #doubledoublehttps://www.instagram.com/hoopsandcrumbs?igsh=MTBmNjFkOTBueGE2NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

This intro episode is an introduction into Maria & Esteban, who they are and why they created this podcast. Whether you listen to this first episode or follow along for weekly musings, you'll be sure to glean some insight into the unique bond between this mom & son duo. Grow with them as they figure out the world of podcasting, parenting and teenagering. “Hoops & Crumbs with the Browns" is a one-of-a-kind podcast that brings together a 40 something-year-old mom and her 14-year-old son for authentic conversations about life, culture, and connection. Set in the warmth of their kitchen, they dive into topics like today’s hip hop scene, the highs and lows of basketball, and what it’s really like to be a teenager growing up in today’s fast-paced world—all while eating homemade cookies.Have a question for us to ask each other? We’d love to hear it!Follow us on Instagram @hoopsandcrumbs and share your thoughts! We are always looking for questions to ask each other on the #doubledoublehttps://www.instagram.com/hoopsandcrumbs?igsh=MTBmNjFkOTBueGE2NQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr