The Strong Youth Project

Today we sat down with Zavier Gozo, a player for Real Salt Lake, to talk about his journey to the pros and the key factors that shaped him along the way. From the influence of his parents and coaches to the importance of humility, faith, and strong character, Zavier shares what truly made the difference in his development, both on and off the field.

In this episode of the Strong Youth Podcast, we’re joined by BYU basketball player Jared McGregor. Jared opens up about his journey to college basketball, the lessons he’s learned along the way, and the inspiration behind The Name of the Game, the non-profit he founded to help others through sports.

In this podcast episode we interview Michael Davie who is the Director of Strength and Conditioning & Sports Science at Brigham Young University. We discuss topics surrounding the development of youth athletes and how to help them train the right way to prepare them for their athletic futures.Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction00:43 – Meeting Michael Davie02:34 – Role of a Strength and Conditioning Coach03:53 – Assessing an Athlete’s Current Performance Level05:13 – Common Strengths and Weaknesses in Athletes06:50 – Helping Athletes Control Movement and Strength08:38 – Getting Started with Strength Training11:00 – Goals Athletes Should Set13:12 – How Coaches and Parents Can Support These Goals17:07 – The Nature and Value of Sports17:45 – When to Adjust a Training Program18:50 – Recommended Weekly Strength Training Volume20:20 – The Importance of Recovery Time21:20 – What an Effective Rest Period Looks Like23:50 – Incorporating Injury Prevention into Training26:45 – Understanding Sport-Specific Injuries28:47 – The Value of Multi-Sport Participation30:52 – Working Toward Your Goals34:00 – Having Meaningful Goal Conversations35:50 – Taking Ownership of Your Training39:38 – Enjoying the Process41:05 – Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Strong Youth Project Podcast we interviewed Dr. Bobby Low who is the Assistant Athletic Director for Mental Performance at Brigham Young University. In this discussion we go over what mental strength is and how to develop it in our youth [email protected]

In this episode we interview Eddie Joseph, a motivational speaker and future author. He discusses his early struggles with obesity, how understanding his identity outside of sport helped him overcome his challenges, and the power of goal setting and how it supported him throughout his journey.

In this episode of the Strong Youth Project Podcast, we sit down with Rachel Higginson, the Director of Olympic Sports Nutrition at BYU and founder of the Nutrition Center for BYU Athletics. In this conversation, Rachel discusses how fueling your body goes beyond just food. Hydration and electrolytes play a huge role in performance and recovery. In this episode, she breaks down what electrolytes actually are, when to fuel up during workouts, and how to get excited about staying hydrated. This episode is perfect for athletes, parents, and coaches to learn how to recognize what the body needs and build habits that support energy, focus, and long-term health!

In this episode of the Strong Youth Project Podcast, host Kamber Mitchell sits down with Callie Rae Floyd, an original member of the Strong Youth Project, dancer, and character development researcher. In this conversation, she explores the importance of building character through athletics, the risks of early sport specialization, and why sports are truly for everyone. She also dives into the often-overlooked role of mental recovery, reminding us that bouncing back isn’t just physical—it’s psychological too. Whether you’re an athlete, parent, or coach, this episode offers valuable insights to foster resilience, balance, and long-term success.Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction to the Strong Youth Project00:58 - Meet Callie Rae Floyd3:03 - Early sport specialization and how athletics are for everyone5:12 - Lifelong character development and not needing to be the star player8:54 - Recovery is mental, not just physical 10:17 - Find research projects you’re passionate about 11:59 - Character development project 13:55 - The curriculum of the character development project16:00 - Conclusion and gratitude for SYP

In this episode of the Strong Youth Project Podcast, host Jennings Genho talks with Dr. Melani Kelly, an athletic trainer and assistant professor at Utah Valley University. Dr. Kelly specializes in exertional heat stroke and shares vital knowledge on how to identify, prevent, and respond to heat illness in youth sports.From practical tips for parents and coaches to real-life anecdotes, this episode delivers powerful insights to help keep young athletes safe during hot weather training and competition.Topics Covered:- What is heat illness? Definitions and types- Signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion vs. heat stroke- Risk factors and prevention strategies- Emergency response and treatment- Role of coaches, parents, and athletic trainersResources mentioned:- NATA Position Statement on Exertional Heat Illnesses: https://www.nata.org/sites/default/files/externalheatillnesses.pdf - Utah High School Activities Association Heat Guidelines: https://uhsaa.org/Publications/Handbook/Handbook.pdf- Wet Bulb Globe Temperature Tracker: https://www.weather.gov/tsa/wbgtTimestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to the Strong Youth Project01:02 - Meet Dr. Melanie Kelly02:00 - Dr. Kelly’s heat illness research background02:55 - What is thermoregulation?04:00 - Types of heat illnesses explained07:00 - The myth of the heat illness "continuum"09:00 - Risk factors: Environment, hydration, and fitness11:00 - The danger of overtraining and lack of acclimatization14:00 - Why prevention matters most16:30 - The coach’s role in recognizing heat illness18:00 - Water breaks & hydration guidelines20:30 - Misconceptions about training when sick22:00 - How to recognize heat stroke symptoms23:40 - Why rectal thermometers are the gold standard25:00 - Proper cooling methods: Cold water immersion & alternatives27:40 - Resource challenges in youth sports30:00 - Emergency Action Plans: What parents should ask33:00 - Long-term effects and heat tolerance testing35:00 - Parent responsibilities for athlete safety38:00 - Final advice: “Cool first, transport second”39:32 - Outro

In this episode of the Strong Youth Project Podcast, host Jennings Genho sits down with Peter Williamson, a dedicated lacrosse coach, current Doctorate of Physical Therapy Student, and SYP advisory team member. Together, they explore the essential role of research in youth sports, discussing the concepts of intrinsic versus extrinsic coaching cues, and the importance of understanding how these cues impact performance.Peter shares his valuable experiences with the Strong Youth Project and offers insights into how coaches can evaluate research to enhance their coaching practices. They also delve into the psychological aspects of coaching, emphasizing the importance of character building and decision-making in sports.Join us as we uncover how to create positive, fun, and effective sporting experiences for youth athletes. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more engaging content on improving youth sports!Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction to the Strong Youth Project Podcast1:02 - Guest Introduction: Peter Williamson1:26 - Peter's Background in Exercise Science and Lacrosse2:05 - How Peter Got Involved with the Strong Youth Project3:40 - Importance of Research in Coaching4:13 - Peter’s Research Focus: Intrinsic vs. Extrinsic Coaching Cues6:06 - Coaching Interaction with Youth Athletes10:03 - Overview of Peter's Research Methodology14:24 - Key Findings on Jump Performance and Coaching Cues16:38 - Correlation Between Hip Angle and Jump Distance36:04 - Transition to Coaching Experiences: Building Character36:31 - Coaching Philosophy: Preparing Athletes for Decisions37:54 - Conclusion and Closing Thoughts

Welcome back to the Strong Youth Project Podcast! In Part 2 of our concussion series, hosts Bree Campbell and Alex Bingham continue their insightful conversation with Dr. Darren Campbell and Dr. Marc Steed from Utah Valley Orthopedics and Sports Medicine.In this episode, we discuss the importance of a comprehensive team approach to concussion care, the misconceptions surrounding concussions, the role of youth as advocates for proper care, and how to navigate the emotional challenges during recovery. We also share valuable advice on seeking professional help and reliable resources for concussion management.Whether you’re an athlete, coach, parent, or just curious about concussion care, this episode is packed with practical knowledge and evidence-based insights!👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on more episodes from the Strong Youth Project!Timestamps:0:00 - Introduction and Welcome1:03 - Episode Overview and Guest Introductions2:00 - Importance of a Team Approach to Concussion Care3:42 - Concussion Education and the Role of Reporting5:32 - Misconceptions and Challenges in Concussion Diagnosis8:42 - Youth Advocacy for Proper Concussion Care10:25 - How Early Treatment Makes a Difference13:04 - Recovery Times and Expectations16:45 - Treatment Differences Between Youth and Adults18:29 - Initial Visit and Patient Experience21:45 - Addressing Emotional and Psychological Challenges24:17 - Instilling Hope and Encouraging Recovery27:47 - When to Seek Professional Help29:03 - Reliable Resources for Concussion Treatment31:21 - Evaluating Resource Credibility32:44 - Key Takeaways and Final Thoughts34:55 - Closing Remarks

In this episode of the Strong Youth Project Podcast, hosts Bree Campbell and Alex Bingham sit down with Dr. Darren Campbell, BYU’s Head Team Physician, and Dr. Marc Steed, a Clinical Neuropsychologist, to discuss concussions in youth sports. This is Part 1 of a two-part series focusing on concussion identification and prevention.Key Points Discussed:- What is a concussion? – Understanding the definition, symptoms, and misconceptions.- How concussions are diagnosed and managed – Recognizing signs beyond just losing consciousness.- The evolution of concussion treatment – How the approach has changed over the years.- The DOD & NCAA CARE Consortium – The largest concussion study and how it informs current research.- Are concussions preventable? – Discussion on risk factors and the role of proper training.- Impact of coaching & technique – How proper training can reduce concussion rates.- Youth sports risks & specialization concerns – Addressing early specialization and its effects on athlete development.- Long-term risks of concussions on a developing brain – Why youth athletes may take longer to recover.- Return-to-learn before return-to-play – The importance of prioritizing academics and full recovery before resuming sports.- Athlete culture & hidden symptoms – How societal pressures influence concussion reporting.Tune in to learn how athletes, parents, coaches, and medical professionals can work together to create safer and more informed youth sports environments. Stay tuned for Part 2, where we dive deeper into concussion recovery and long-term effects!Subscribe for more episodes on youth sports safety and development!Timestamps: 0:00 – Intro Music0:02 – Welcome to the Strong Youth Project0:22 – Purpose of the Podcast0:58 – Introduction of Guests: Dr. Darren Campbell & Dr. Marc Steed1:04 – Overview of Concussion Series (Part 1: Identification & Prevention)1:26 – Guest Introductions: Dr. Campbell (BYU Head Team Physician) & Dr. Steed (Clinical Neuropsychologist)2:28 – What is a concussion? Definition & Symptoms5:04 – How Dr. Campbell & Dr. Steed got into studying concussions8:17 – Evolution of concussion treatment over the years12:50 – The DOD & NCAA CARE Consortium and its impact on concussion research13:33 – Are concussions preventable? Discussion on risks and mitigation strategies17:47 – Role of coaching and training in reducing concussion risks18:46 – How professional sports are adapting to reduce concussion rates19:25 – Shifting focus to Youth Sports21:39 – Risks of concussions in youth sports23:24 – Specialization in youth sports and its impact on athlete health26:27 – Long-term risks of concussions on a developing brain27:20 – Importance of return-to-learn protocols before return-to-play29:28 – The issue of athletes hiding concussion symptoms29:41 – Closing remarks & preview of Part 2

In this episode of the Strong Youth Project Podcast, host Jennings Genho sits down with Talan Alfrey, a safety for the BYU football team, to discuss his experience playing multiple sports as a youth, overcoming major injuries, and the lessons he’s learned about resilience. Talan shares insights on playing multiple sports growing up (2:00), recovering from a ruptured Achilles and a broken collarbone (4:00), and how he stayed mentally strong during setbacks (7:00). He also reflects on his experience with BYU head coach Kalani Sitake and the importance of a strong team culture (19:00). Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or parent, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways on perseverance, competition, and finding joy in sports.Timestamps:0:00 - Introduction2:00 - The benefits of playing multiple sports4:00 - Dealing with injuries and recovery7:00 - Mental resilience and mindset shifts12:00 - Bouncing back from setbacks in games14:00 - Recovery strategies and preventing injuries19:00 - Lessons from Coach Kalani Sitake24:00 - Advice for young athletes and parents

On this episode of the Strong Youth Project Podcast, host Emily Rummler sits down with Dr. Mikel Joachim and Malorie Wilwand to discuss the latest research on youth sports performance, injury prevention, and the impact of stress, sleep, and early specialization.Dr. Mikel Joachim is a Research Program Manager for Badger Athletic Performance at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, specializing in injury risk factors for distance runners, hamstring injuries, ACL recovery, and hip arthroscopy. Malorie Wilwand holds a Master of Science in Sports Conditioning and Performance and is currently a PhD student at BYU, working as a research coordinator for the BYU football team.Key Topics Discussed:- Why stress and sleep are major risk factors for youth sports injuries- The myth of early sports specialization and why playing multiple sports is better- What parents and coaches can do to protect young athletes- The role of biomechanics in injury prevention- How rest and recovery are just as important as training- The unique experience of being women in the sports science fieldIf you’re a parent, coach, athlete, or sports enthusiast, this episode is packed with evidence-based insights on keeping young athletes healthy, happy, and high-performing.⏱ Timestamps[00:00] Intro – Welcome to the Strong Youth Project Podcast[00:22] Host Emily Rummler introduces today’s guests[00:30] Meet Dr. Mikel Joachim – Research on injury risk factors in athletes[01:10] Meet Malorie Wilwand – PhD student studying sports conditioning[02:00] Overview of Mikel’s research on youth and collegiate athletes[04:04] The biggest risk factors for athletic injuries in youth[05:26] Nutrition & energy balance – Are young athletes eating enough?[06:52] How stress and sleep impact injury risk[08:14] What high school research reveals about training volume and injury[09:58] The dangers of early sports specialization – What parents need to know[12:01] Why most youth athletes will NOT play college sports (and that’s okay)[13:13] The role of parents and coaches in preventing burnout and injury[15:04] The unique case of football – Why it’s different from other sports[17:12] Strength training for youth – How to do it right without overtraining[20:04] Does weight training actually prevent injuries?[22:29] The importance of movement literacy – Teaching athletes to move well[23:44] How rest and recovery enhance athletic performance[25:22] The myth of “good” movement mechanics – Is there a right way to move?[27:05] Post-injury movement changes – How injuries affect long-term mechanics[29:02] Women in sports science – Mikel & Malorie’s experiences in a male-dominated field[30:27] Final thoughts – How we can better support young athletes[31:00] 🎵 Outro – Thank you for tuning in!

Join us for an enlightening episode of the Strong Youth Project Podcast as Parker Dean interviews Dr. Dain Allred and Dr. Darren Campbell, two esteemed specialists in orthopedic and sports medicine. Recorded at the Intermountain Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Clinic, this interview dives into the critical issues surrounding youth sports, injury prevention, and recovery.Dr. Allred and Dr. Campbell share their extensive experiences, discuss the challenges of sport specialization, and offer actionable advice for parents, coaches, and young athletes. Learn how to foster a holistic and sustainable approach to youth sports that emphasizes health, development, and lifelong activity.Key Topics Covered:Understanding the team approach in sports medicineDifferences in injuries between youth and collegiate athletesPreventing overuse injuries and managing risk factorsThe impact of sport specialization on young athletesEffective strategies for preventing and recovering from acute injuries like ACL tearsThe importance of sleep, nutrition, and recovery in athletic developmentTune in to learn how to support youth athletes in achieving their potential while prioritizing their health and well-being!Timestamps: 0:00 Introduction to the Strong Youth Project1:19 Introduction of Dr. Dain Allred and Dr. Darren Campbell2:50 Background stories: How they chose their specialties7:20 The importance of a team approach in athlete care10:10 Differences in injuries: Youth vs. collegiate athletes12:58 The risks of sport specialization18:50 Strategies for preventing overuse injuries26:21 Recovery: Sleep, nutrition, and mental health28:09 Discussion on acute injuries like ACL tears34:10 Research and prevention: Lessons from the Air Force Academy37:35 Concussion prevention in youth sports38:06 Key takeaways for parents and coaches41:07 Closing remarks

Join the Strong Youth Project Podcast as Savannah Dixon interviews BYU track and field athlete Jayda Lee about her athletic journey, balancing sports, mental health, and overcoming perfectionism. This inspiring discussion covers the power of resilience, family support, and faith in achieving success.The Strong Youth Project values scientific evidence as the best guide for youth sports practices and proudly collaborates with respected scholars. While we also highlight individual athletes' experiences in our podcasts, we do not endorse all actions described, as some may lead to performance success but lack empirical support.Timestamps: 0:00 - Intro to the Strong Youth Project0:22 - Meet Jayda Lee1:21 - Jayda’s Track and Field Events2:13 - Transitioning to Track & Field 3:05 - The Value of Multi-Sport Experience6:54 - Jayda’s Relationship with Her Dad as Coach12:02 - Sports Anxiety and Mental Health Journey19:25 - Embracing Imperfection and Faith20:02 - Closing Thoughts

In this episode of the Strong Youth Project Podcast, Dr. Zack Beddoes, an expert in youth sports and physical education, joins Parker Dean to discuss the transformative potential of sports for young athletes. Dr. Beddoes shares insights on developmental differences between children and adults in sports, coaching methods that nurture intrinsic motivation, and the importance of creating supportive, task-centered environments. With experience in coaching and youth development, Dr. Beddoes offers actionable advice on how coaches and mentors can inspire, support, and build life skills through sports and physical education. Tune in to learn from Dr. Beddoes’ wealth of experience in youth sports and discover ways to cultivate lifelong skills and values through sport and physical education.Timestamps: 0:22 - Meet Dr. Zack Beddoes2:02 - Key differences in physical activity for kids vs. adults4:04 - Coaching techniques for young athletes6:08 - Motivating youth: Task-centered environments vs. comparison10:01 - Putting youth interests first as a coach12:15 - Physical education vs. sports coaching: Differences and challenges16:35 - Building intrinsic motivation in coaches and athletes19:25 - Using sports to teach social and emotional skills22:18 - Dr. Beddoes’ vision for physical education in schools24:49 - Inspiring youth to become active, responsible agents of change25:22 - Closing remarks and future goals for the Strong Youth Project

In this episode, Kylie Haycock, a Human Development undergrad at BYU, is joined by Dr. Sarah Coyne, a professor specializing in media, gender, and mental health, and Chenae Duerden, a PhD student in marriage, family, and human development. Together, they discuss how human development research can inform youth sports, with topics covering self-esteem, body image, gender discrimination, and inclusivity in sports environments.Time Stamps: 0:25 – Introducing Dr. Sarah Coyne and Chenae Deurden1:47 – How research in human development applies to youth sports2:36 – The impact of sports on self-esteem and the role of coaches5:34 – Advice for coaches and parents to support youth self-esteem7:45 – Navigating sports when children aren’t naturally skilled8:45 – Encouraging diverse sports involvement without specialization9:52 – Gender discrimination in sports: frequency, timing, and participation11:03 – Personal experiences with puberty and sports participation12:02 – Body image challenges in aesthetic sports13:38 – Positive body image through physical capability focus15:50 – Tips for athletes struggling with body image and self-esteem17:18 – Cultural and systemic discrimination in girls' sports19:00 – Examples of subtle discrimination in school sports21:40 – Gender-biased language in sports environments23:10 – Closing thoughts on inclusivity and awareness in sports

Join us for this insightful episode of the Strong Youth Project podcast featuring Ben Barton, a collegiate track and field athlete at BYU. In this episode, Ben shares his journey through multiple sports, discusses the challenges of injury recovery, and offers valuable tips on injury prevention, recovery, and how to balance individual and team success. He also highlights the importance of proper coaching cues and positive reinforcement in sports development. Whether you're a coach, athlete, or parent, this episode is packed with practical advice to help young athletes thrive!Timestamps0:00 - Introduction to the Strong Youth Project podcast0:18 - Ben introduces himself and his background (BYU track team, decathlon)1:40 - Ben's track career through high school and college2:10 - Ben's experience playing multiple sports throughout high school4:00 - Ben's injury history4:30 - Preventing injuries through warm-ups, hydration, nutrition, and sleep6:20 - Ben’s experiences with different coaching styles6:50 - Positive coaching cues: The importance of focusing on what athletes should do8:50 - The importance of recovery9:00 - Ben’s approach to recovery: Active and passive recovery strategies9:18 - The importance of sleep in recovery and injury prevention10:21 - Balancing individual and team success in track and field11:46 - Ben’s favorite part of the Strong Youth Project: Providing accurate information to young athletes

Join us in this engaging episode of the Strong Youth Project podcast, where we discuss the past year’s accomplishments, including the success of the Strong Youth Conference and the Strong Youth Project's original research. Hear from Dr. Seeley as well as student team members about their experiences and passion for youth sports, and learn about future plans for character-building curricula designed to positively impact young athletes. This episode is packed with insights for parents, coaches, and sports enthusiasts alike, offering practical advice on building healthier, happier athletes for life. 0:00 - Introduction to the Strong Youth Project podcast 3:40 - Accomplishments of the Strong Youth Project over the past year 4:42 - Discussion of the Strong Youth Conference 7:50 - Future plans for strengthening ties with stakeholders 9:25 - Collaboration with local organizations (e.g., rock climbing gym, schools) 11:42 - The importance of character development through sports 13:22 - SYP Research: The impact of coaching cues on athlete performance (internal vs. external cues) 14:55 - SYP Research: reducing musculoskeletal injuries in high school athletes 17:32 - Partnership with Intermountain Health for injury prevention 18:53 - Additional research on character development through sports 21:02 - Using sport to build resilience and character in youth 22:00 - Reflections on lessons learned from sports (Savannah's personal experience) 23:55 - Aim 3: Designing and delivering training curricula 25:10 - Plans for character-building curriculum 26:45 - Final reflections on the purpose and goals of the Strong Youth Project 27:59 - Conclusion and closing remarks

Dr. Jenae Nelson interviews Dr. John White on the subject of sports and faith integration. They discuss varies topics, such as the balancing winning and maintaining morals, building character in sports, and the positive role of competition. Dr. White provides hope that sports can be effectively used to build character and sustain faith in the lives of youth athletes. Dr. John B. White is a native of the Midwest and in particular, he is a Hoosier. He raced in the legendary cycling race, "The Little 500" at Indiana University, on Team Cutters, which the film Breaking Away dramatizes. Playing sports has always been a "school" of sorts for John. The joys of play, challenges of competing well with others, and how to do and celebrate sports unto God are difficult to integrate but they demand serious reflection and practice. Because of such formative experiences, he sensed God's call to sports chaplaincy and ministry. His work included serving and ministering in churches, on various NCAA Division 1, 2 and 3 university campuses, at the Olympic Training Center and in Eastern and Western Europe. His PhD is from The University of Edinburgh where he studied moral theology with Michael Northcott and his dissertation was on Christianity and Sports- Sport and Christian ethics: Towards a theological ethic for sport. He also completed an M.Div. and an M.A. at T.E.D.S. where he completed his thesis with Kevin Vanhoozer. John’s publications have appeared in Sport, Ethics and Philosophy, Implicit Religion, Studies in Christian Ethics, Practical Theology, The Oxford Encyclopedia of Bible and Ethics, and he recently co-edited books with Routledge Press (2016), Cambridge Scholars and Mercer Press (2017). He also has a book under contract with Baker Academic. He is the Principal Investigator and Faculty Director of the newly established Faith and Sport Institute: Running the Race Well at Baylor University, which is funded by a grant from Lilly Endowment, Inc. He is regularly interviewed on the subject matter of Christianity and sports in prominent news media and periodicals such as CBS, Sports Illustrated, Wall Street Journal and USA Today.

In this interview, Dr. Jenae Nelson discusses transcendent indebtedness and goals in sports. She provides several ways in which parents and coaches can help athletes to implement these kind of goals. She also discusses developing character and virtue, in particular how this can be done through sports. Dr. Jenae Nelson is developmental scientist, with a PhD in psychology. She has done two post doctoral experiences, one at Harvard Medical School and the other at Baylor. She is an expert in transcendent indebtedness. Dr. Nelson is currently a professor at Brigham Young University.

In this interview we will be discussing youth sport injuries and how specialization can lead to greater injuries in youth sport. Dr. Anthony Beutler is an expert in this field, serving as the associate medical director of Sports Medicine for Intermountain Healthcare. He is also the program director for Intermountain’s Sports Medicine fellowship in Provo, Utah, and serves as a team physician for Brigham Young and Utah Valley Universities, and previously as a team physician for the US Naval Academy. As a member of the JUMP-ACL Partnership and of the CHAMP Consortium, his study teams have received multiple national grants and awards for their ground-breaking work in injury prevention and injury prediction.

Join us in this interview with Justin Yee as we discuss various aspects of youth sports coaching, such as effective coaching methods, sports specialization, strength training, and a parent's role. Justin Yee is a Co-Director of SYP with Matthew Seeley and earned a BS degree in Exercise Science from Brigham Young University. He served as a Police Officer for eight years and concurrently coached high school and youth soccer teams. It was during this time that he became passionate about using sports and physical training to help youth develop positive character traits that could help them overcome life’s obstacles. Justin owned and operated a CrossFit gym for over ten years and started a youth non-profit that provided physical training to underserved youth. Justin believes that participation in youth sports needs to focus on character development and is committed to providing resources for athletes, coaches, and parents.

This interview discusses nutrition, why it is important, and the effect good and bad nutrition can have on young athletes. Dr. Chad Hancock earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education-Exercise Physiology from Brigham Young University. He earned a PhD in Physiology with a focus on muscle physiology and energy metabolism from the University of Missouri-Columbia. He also completed a postdoctoral fellowship at Washington University in St. Louis. Since 2008, Dr. Hancock has taught courses on general nutrition and sports nutrition in the Nutrition, Dietetics, and Food Science Department at BYU. His research has generally focused on how changes in energy demands and energy supply impact muscle metabolism, function, and overall health. Dr. Hancock firmly believes that maintaining a physically active lifestyle is critical to achieving and maintaining good health and wellbeing.

In this interview, we will discuss early sports specialization and its impact on young athletes. Dr. David Bell is an Associate Professor in the Departments of Kinesiology and Orthopedics and Rehabilitation at the University of Wisconsin – Madison. Dr. Bell earned his B.A. and Ph.D. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and his master’s degree from the University of Virginia. He teaches in the Athletic Training Program and serves as the director of the Wisconsin Injury in Sport Laboratory. His research focuses on identifying risk factors for musculoskeletal injuries with a special focus on sport specialization in children.

Dr. Michael Larson is a Professor of Psychology in the Department of Psychology and Neuroscience Center at Brigham Young University, where he has taught and conducted research since 2008. Dr. Larson holds of Bachelors of Science Degree in Psychology from BYU, and a Masters and PhD in Clinical Psychology from the University of Florida in Gainesville. Dr. Larson has served as the editor in chief of the International Journal of Psychophysiology since 2016. He also works as the chief sport psychologist for the men's basketball team at BYU. Watch this interview to learn more about sports-related anxiety from Dr. Larson, a recognized scholar on reducing sport-related anxiety and improving mental health for youth athletes.

Kara duraccio is an assistant professor in the Psychology Department at BYU. Her research is focused on (a) uncovering risk factors for insufficient sleep in youth, (b) understanding the mental, behavioral, and physical health consequences of obtaining insufficient sleep, (c) developing innovative methods for measuring and manipulating diet, physical activity, and sleep outcomes, and (d) creating effective pediatric obesity interventions. She is a certified expert in the area of sleep research and is passionate about the importance of youth getting enough sleep! In this interview we discuss various aspects of sleep and its effects on youth with Kara. We learned a lot being part of this interview, and we know you will learn lots by listening!

Matthew Seeley, one of the co-founders of the Strong Youth Project, is a professor in the Exercise Sciences Department at BYU. He has taught courses and conducted research in the BYU Exercise Sciences Department since 2006. His research has primarily focused upon factors that affect knee cartilage health, including lower-extremity movement biomechanics and knee joint biochemistry. Dr. Seeley is also passionate about improving youth sport experiences, for all participants; Dr. Seeley believes that a positive sport experience for youth can contribute to joint health and overall wellness for youth, and a stronger society overall. In this interview, Jordan Searle, a student at BYU, and Matt Seeley discuss the Strong Youth Project. Watch this interview to learn the story behind SYP, our mission and aims, the goals and motivation for our project, and much more!

Jake Sorensen is an assistant professor in the Exercise Sciences Department at BYU. His research is focused on how skeletal muscle adapts to stress through injury, disuse, aging, and disease. Jake grew up playing sports, has a masters degree in coaching performance, is a certified strength & conditioning specialist, and has worked as a high school rugby coach & strength coach for youth, collegiate, and professional athletes. In this interview we discuss resistance training with Jake and its effects on youth athletes. Tune in to learn more about the benefits of resistance training and the common misconceptions concerning this practice! Intro: (0:00) Define youth: (4:44) Resistance training: (5:58) Resistance training vs lifting weights: (7:30) Benefits: (8:36) Favorite modes for youth: (14:02) Plyometrics: (19:26) Making exercise fun: (22:57) Lift heavy vs light & quick: (24:31) Supplements & casein protein: (30:20) Message for youth: (35:10) Summary: (37:17) Qualified to supervise training: (39:07) End: (41:35)