Talkin' with the AD Mon, 10 Aug 2026 08:00:00 -0400 https://www.betteryouthcoaching.com/ en-us © 2026 Talkin' with the AD yes Support this Podcast f3d78b32-4442-5279-9109-a3998a37ad33 Coach Morgan Sullivan, CAA, RMSAA, CIC, NFHS Level 3 Coach, NFHS Level 3 MS Coach episodic false Talkin' with the AD dives into the complexities of America's amateur sports scene, from high school to club, travel, AAU, and recreational leagues. Hosted by an experienced coach and Athletic Director, this podcast delivers insider insights, expert interviews, and the latest trends shaping the future of sports at every level. 

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) Sports, Youth Sports, High School Sports, Athletics, Athletic Director, Travel, AAU, Ball Coach Morgan Sullivan, CAA, RMSAA, CIC, NFHS Level 3 Coach, NFHS Level 3 MS Coach https://storage.buzzsprout.com/wipr90w3c3q1fqvmbpxvw39i9vee?.jpg Talkin' with the AD https://www.betteryouthcoaching.com/ Stephen Anderson - Rising Athlete Project Stephen Anderson - Rising Athlete Project Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of Talkin’ with the AD, Morgan sits down with Stephen Anderson, Athletic Director at Providence Academy in Green Bay, Wisconsin, and creator of the Rising Athlete Project, for a wide-ranging conversation about helping young athletes navigate every stage of their sports journey.

Stephen brings a unique perspective from overseeing athletics from the earliest youth levels all the way through high school. Together, Morgan and Stephen break down what athletes actually need at each stage, why middle school may be the most misunderstood developmental period in sports, how puberty and late development can dramatically change an athlete’s trajectory, and why coaches and parents should be careful about deciding too early who has—or doesn’t have—a future in sports.

The conversation also explores how the role of parents should evolve as athletes get older. At the youth level, the priority should be creating positive experiences and keeping kids excited about coming back. In middle school, patience becomes critical as athletes develop at dramatically different rates. By high school, parents should increasingly empower athletes to communicate with coaches, advocate for themselves, and take ownership of their athletic experience.

Stephen also shares the story behind the Rising Athlete Project, a collection of resources designed to help parents, coaches, and athletic directors better understand the transitions from youth sports to middle school and ultimately high school athletics. The goal is simple: educate families before problems develop and give athletic leaders practical tools to create healthier sports cultures.

The episode closes with three powerful lessons Stephen has learned during nearly a decade in athletic administration:

• Athletics is a people business. Relationships matter more than schedules, spreadsheets, and logistics.
• Clarity early is better than cleanup later. Establish expectations before problems arise.
• Protect the mission no matter how noisy it gets. Keep athlete development and the purpose of education-based athletics at the center of every decision.

Whether you’re raising your first young athlete, coaching middle school sports, navigating the high school experience, or leading an entire athletic department, this conversation is packed with practical perspective for making the sports journey better for everyone involved.

Learn more about Stephen and the Rising Athlete Project at RisingAthleteProject.com.

#TalkinWithTheAD #Sports #HighSchool #MiddleSchool #JuniorHigh #YouthSports #StudentAthletes #SportsParents #AthleticDirector #Coaching #Sportsmanship #Baseball #Football #Basketball #Soccer #Volleyball #TrackAndField

Welcome to Talkin' with the AD! 

LET'S GO!!

Better Youth Coaching
Mission is to improve amateur sports through education of parents, coaches, and athletes

Better Youth Coaching
Mission is to improve amateur sports through education of parents, coaches, and athletes

Support the show

Visit betteryouthcoaching.com - information for parents, coaches, and athletes.

SOCIALS

Facebook - talkinwiththead

X - Talkin’ with the AD

Instagram - talkin_with_the_ad

YouTube - Talkin' with the AD

Tik Tok - Talkin' with the AD

]]> Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of Talkin’ with the AD, Morgan sits down with Stephen Anderson, Athletic Director at Providence Academy in Green Bay, Wisconsin, and creator of the Rising Athlete Project, for a wide-ranging conversation about helping young athletes navigate every stage of their sports journey.

Stephen brings a unique perspective from overseeing athletics from the earliest youth levels all the way through high school. Together, Morgan and Stephen break down what athletes actually need at each stage, why middle school may be the most misunderstood developmental period in sports, how puberty and late development can dramatically change an athlete’s trajectory, and why coaches and parents should be careful about deciding too early who has—or doesn’t have—a future in sports.

The conversation also explores how the role of parents should evolve as athletes get older. At the youth level, the priority should be creating positive experiences and keeping kids excited about coming back. In middle school, patience becomes critical as athletes develop at dramatically different rates. By high school, parents should increasingly empower athletes to communicate with coaches, advocate for themselves, and take ownership of their athletic experience.

Stephen also shares the story behind the Rising Athlete Project, a collection of resources designed to help parents, coaches, and athletic directors better understand the transitions from youth sports to middle school and ultimately high school athletics. The goal is simple: educate families before problems develop and give athletic leaders practical tools to create healthier sports cultures.

The episode closes with three powerful lessons Stephen has learned during nearly a decade in athletic administration:

• Athletics is a people business. Relationships matter more than schedules, spreadsheets, and logistics.
• Clarity early is better than cleanup later. Establish expectations before problems arise.
• Protect the mission no matter how noisy it gets. Keep athlete development and the purpose of education-based athletics at the center of every decision.

Whether you’re raising your first young athlete, coaching middle school sports, navigating the high school experience, or leading an entire athletic department, this conversation is packed with practical perspective for making the sports journey better for everyone involved.

Learn more about Stephen and the Rising Athlete Project at RisingAthleteProject.com.

#TalkinWithTheAD #Sports #HighSchool #MiddleSchool #JuniorHigh #YouthSports #StudentAthletes #SportsParents #AthleticDirector #Coaching #Sportsmanship #Baseball #Football #Basketball #Soccer #Volleyball #TrackAndField

Welcome to Talkin' with the AD! 

LET'S GO!!

Better Youth Coaching
Mission is to improve amateur sports through education of parents, coaches, and athletes

Better Youth Coaching
Mission is to improve amateur sports through education of parents, coaches, and athletes

Support the show

Visit betteryouthcoaching.com - information for parents, coaches, and athletes.

SOCIALS

Facebook - talkinwiththead

X - Talkin’ with the AD

Instagram - talkin_with_the_ad

YouTube - Talkin' with the AD

Tik Tok - Talkin' with the AD

]]> Coach Morgan Sullivan, CAA, RMSAA, CIC, NFHS Level 3 Coach, NFHS Level 3 MS Coach Buzzsprout-19623439 Mon, 10 Aug 2026 08:00:00 -0400 2505 2026 4 full false Athlete Mental Health - Beyond Awareness Athlete Mental Health - Beyond Awareness Send us Fan Mail

Athlete mental health cannot be addressed with motivational slogans, one-time awareness campaigns, or instructions to simply “toughen up.” In this special roundtable episode of Talkin’ with the AD, Morgan Sullivan is joined by five professionals with backgrounds in mental health counseling, athletic training, coaching, education, mental performance, and athlete development.

The panel discusses the challenges today’s athletes face, including anxiety, depression, perfectionism, emotional regulation, burnout, injuries, recruiting pressure, early specialization, parent expectations, and the loss of identity that can occur when an athlete’s playing career ends. 

The conversation also explores coaching behaviors that may be well-intentioned but psychologically damaging, including public criticism, indirect communication, unexplained lineup changes, and giving corrective feedback while an athlete is still highly emotional. The panel emphasizes the importance of building relationships, communicating directly, allowing athletes time to process mistakes, and making sure young people know that their value is not determined by their statistics, starting position, or performance.

The central message of this episode is simple: The person must always come before the athlete. When adults create environments where athletes feel seen, heard, supported, and valued beyond the scoreboard, they do not weaken competitive sports—they build healthier teams, stronger athletes, and better human beings.

Meet the Panel

Liza Simrell, LPCC-S

Liza is a licensed professional clinical counselor with supervision designation and a certified mental game coach based in Toledo, Ohio. She works with adolescents, adults, athletes, teams, and organizations and brings experience as a collegiate basketball player, varsity coach, college recruiter, basketball official, and competitive golfer.

Learn more: Liza Simrell Counseling

Bill Hoopes

Bill is a Navy veteran, former educator, coach, youth-development professional, and founder of Lead Your Journey. His work focuses on athlete mindset, leadership, recruiting, and strengthening the relationship between athletes and their parents. He also leads Florida Premier Girls Fastpitch and has helped hundreds of softball players pursue collegiate opportunities.

Learn more: Lead Your Journey

Danielle Vallas, LMHC, M.Ed.

Danielle is a licensed mental health counselor, former school wellness director, coach, educator, graduate-school professor, author, and founder of D&G Wellness Consulting. Her work helps athletes, parents, coaches, schools, and organizations address mental health and wellness through counseling, coaching, workshops, and education.

Danielle is also the creator of The Inner Game: A Mental Health Journal for Peak Performance in Sports and the founder of Buffalo Believes.

Learn more:

D&G Wellness Consulting

Danielle Vallas

Buffalo Believes

The Inner Game Journal

Meghan Johnson, MA, LAPC, LAT, ATC, NCC

Meghan is a licensed associate professional counselor, certified athletic trainer, and mental performance coach with Next Level Mental Performance. A former collegiate softball player, she combines her background in sports medicine, counseling, and performance psychology to support athletes both on and off the field.

Learn more: Meghan Johnson at Next Level Mental Performance

Kim Griffin, MHC-P

Kim is a mental health counselor and former NCAA Division I softball coach. She spent nearly two decades coaching at Canisius University, including 11 seasons as head coach, before transitioning into mental health counseling. Kim works with athletes, families, couples, and individuals on emotional regulation, performance, anxiety, communication, leadership, burnout, and life transitions.

Learn more: Kim Griffin at Core Mental Health Counseling

Memorable Moments

  • “Put the person first—not the athlete.” — Liza Simrell
  • “You’re not building a softball player. You’re building a strong, powerful woman who can use the game as a vessel.” — Bill Hoopes
  • “It doesn’t take a special certification or a fancy degree to be an active listener.” — Meghan Johnson
  • “Our brains are prediction machines.” — Kim Griffin
  • “I’m noticing…” may be one of the most powerful ways for a coach to begin a conversation.
  • Athletes often do not need coaches to fix the situation; they need coaches to remain present.
  • The qualities that can make someone an elite athlete may also make that athlete more vulnerable to mental health concerns.
  • The person who arrives with 100% can help carry the teammate who arrives with 20%.
  • The growth is not in the immediate emotional reaction; the growth is in the reflection.
  • Coaches should strive to be the thermostat that helps regulate the environment—not the thermometer that simply reflects its temperature.
  • Supporting coach mental health matters because coaches are people, not simply because replacing them is inconvenient.

Action Steps for Athletic Directors

  1. Create a written mental health emergency action plan for home and away contests.
  2. Establish clear procedures for concerns that occur when school counselors are unavailable.
  3. Include mental health awareness and referral procedures in preseason coach training.
  4. Connect coaches, counselors, athletic trainers, administrators, and school nurses before a crisis occurs.
  5. Develop a vetted list of local and telehealth mental health professionals.
  6. Explain mandatory reporting and confidentiality boundaries to all coaches.
  7. Add mental wellness questions or screenings to appropriate preseason processes.
  8. Train coaches to recognize behavioral changes and begin supportive conversations.
  9. Create recurring athlete check-in systems across every program.
  10. Provide mental health, stress-management, conflict-resolution, and boundary-setting resources for coaches.
  11. Build mentoring systems for new and inexperienced coaches.
  12. Model vulnerability, help-seeking, emotional regulation, and healthy boundaries at the administrative level.

Practical Strategies for Coaches

The Percentage Check-In

At the beginning of practice, ask each athlete to give a percentage representing how much energy or emotional capacity they are bringing that day.

An athlete might say, “I’m at 60% today.”

The coach or teammates can respond, “We’ve got the other 40%.”

This establishes a regular check-in system instead of waiting until something appears obviously wrong. It also helps coaches identify patterns when the same athlete repeatedly reports a low number.

Weekly Athlete Journal

Give athletes a short weekly reflection containing questions such as:

  • What went well this week?
  • What challenged you?
  • What did you learn?
  • What support do you need?
  • Is there anything you need from the coaching staff?

Writing can provide an easier communication route for athletes who struggle with face-to-face conversations.

Shoulder-to-Shoulder Conversations

Many young people communicate more comfortably while moving and looking ahead rather than maintaining direct eye contact.

Post-Competition Feedback Rule

Immediately after competition, emphasize effort, connection, and what went well. Save detailed technical correction for a time when the athlete and coach are emotionally regulated and able to reflect productively.

Regular Athlete Feedback

Do not wait until the final exit interview. Ask throughout the season:

  • What is helping you improve?
  • What is making practice difficult?
  • What could we communicate more clearly?
  • What does the team need from the coaching staff?
  • What should we continue doing?


Educational AD podcast

Hangin with the ADs podcast

Pure Athlete podcast

Youth Inc with Greg Olson podcast

Healthy Sports Parents podcast

AD 360 podcast

 Middle School AD podcast

AD Insider podcast

Welcome to Talkin' with the AD! 

LET'S GO!!

Better Youth Coaching
Mission is to improve amateur sports through education of parents, coaches, and athletes

Better Youth Coaching
Mission is to improve amateur sports through education of parents, coaches, and athletes

Support the show

Visit betteryouthcoaching.com - information for parents, coaches, and athletes.

SOCIALS

Facebook - talkinwiththead

X - Talkin’ with the AD

Instagram - talkin_with_the_ad

YouTube - Talkin' with the AD

Tik Tok - Talkin' with the AD

]]> Send us Fan Mail

Athlete mental health cannot be addressed with motivational slogans, one-time awareness campaigns, or instructions to simply “toughen up.” In this special roundtable episode of Talkin’ with the AD, Morgan Sullivan is joined by five professionals with backgrounds in mental health counseling, athletic training, coaching, education, mental performance, and athlete development.

The panel discusses the challenges today’s athletes face, including anxiety, depression, perfectionism, emotional regulation, burnout, injuries, recruiting pressure, early specialization, parent expectations, and the loss of identity that can occur when an athlete’s playing career ends. 

The conversation also explores coaching behaviors that may be well-intentioned but psychologically damaging, including public criticism, indirect communication, unexplained lineup changes, and giving corrective feedback while an athlete is still highly emotional. The panel emphasizes the importance of building relationships, communicating directly, allowing athletes time to process mistakes, and making sure young people know that their value is not determined by their statistics, starting position, or performance.

The central message of this episode is simple: The person must always come before the athlete. When adults create environments where athletes feel seen, heard, supported, and valued beyond the scoreboard, they do not weaken competitive sports—they build healthier teams, stronger athletes, and better human beings.

Meet the Panel

Liza Simrell, LPCC-S

Liza is a licensed professional clinical counselor with supervision designation and a certified mental game coach based in Toledo, Ohio. She works with adolescents, adults, athletes, teams, and organizations and brings experience as a collegiate basketball player, varsity coach, college recruiter, basketball official, and competitive golfer.

Learn more: Liza Simrell Counseling

Bill Hoopes

Bill is a Navy veteran, former educator, coach, youth-development professional, and founder of Lead Your Journey. His work focuses on athlete mindset, leadership, recruiting, and strengthening the relationship between athletes and their parents. He also leads Florida Premier Girls Fastpitch and has helped hundreds of softball players pursue collegiate opportunities.

Learn more: Lead Your Journey

Danielle Vallas, LMHC, M.Ed.

Danielle is a licensed mental health counselor, former school wellness director, coach, educator, graduate-school professor, author, and founder of D&G Wellness Consulting. Her work helps athletes, parents, coaches, schools, and organizations address mental health and wellness through counseling, coaching, workshops, and education.

Danielle is also the creator of The Inner Game: A Mental Health Journal for Peak Performance in Sports and the founder of Buffalo Believes.

Learn more:

D&G Wellness Consulting

Danielle Vallas

Buffalo Believes

The Inner Game Journal

Meghan Johnson, MA, LAPC, LAT, ATC, NCC

Meghan is a licensed associate professional counselor, certified athletic trainer, and mental performance coach with Next Level Mental Performance. A former collegiate softball player, she combines her background in sports medicine, counseling, and performance psychology to support athletes both on and off the field.

Learn more: Meghan Johnson at Next Level Mental Performance

Kim Griffin, MHC-P

Kim is a mental health counselor and former NCAA Division I softball coach. She spent nearly two decades coaching at Canisius University, including 11 seasons as head coach, before transitioning into mental health counseling. Kim works with athletes, families, couples, and individuals on emotional regulation, performance, anxiety, communication, leadership, burnout, and life transitions.

Learn more: Kim Griffin at Core Mental Health Counseling

Memorable Moments

  • “Put the person first—not the athlete.” — Liza Simrell
  • “You’re not building a softball player. You’re building a strong, powerful woman who can use the game as a vessel.” — Bill Hoopes
  • “It doesn’t take a special certification or a fancy degree to be an active listener.” — Meghan Johnson
  • “Our brains are prediction machines.” — Kim Griffin
  • “I’m noticing…” may be one of the most powerful ways for a coach to begin a conversation.
  • Athletes often do not need coaches to fix the situation; they need coaches to remain present.
  • The qualities that can make someone an elite athlete may also make that athlete more vulnerable to mental health concerns.
  • The person who arrives with 100% can help carry the teammate who arrives with 20%.
  • The growth is not in the immediate emotional reaction; the growth is in the reflection.
  • Coaches should strive to be the thermostat that helps regulate the environment—not the thermometer that simply reflects its temperature.
  • Supporting coach mental health matters because coaches are people, not simply because replacing them is inconvenient.

Action Steps for Athletic Directors

  1. Create a written mental health emergency action plan for home and away contests.
  2. Establish clear procedures for concerns that occur when school counselors are unavailable.
  3. Include mental health awareness and referral procedures in preseason coach training.
  4. Connect coaches, counselors, athletic trainers, administrators, and school nurses before a crisis occurs.
  5. Develop a vetted list of local and telehealth mental health professionals.
  6. Explain mandatory reporting and confidentiality boundaries to all coaches.
  7. Add mental wellness questions or screenings to appropriate preseason processes.
  8. Train coaches to recognize behavioral changes and begin supportive conversations.
  9. Create recurring athlete check-in systems across every program.
  10. Provide mental health, stress-management, conflict-resolution, and boundary-setting resources for coaches.
  11. Build mentoring systems for new and inexperienced coaches.
  12. Model vulnerability, help-seeking, emotional regulation, and healthy boundaries at the administrative level.

Practical Strategies for Coaches

The Percentage Check-In

At the beginning of practice, ask each athlete to give a percentage representing how much energy or emotional capacity they are bringing that day.

An athlete might say, “I’m at 60% today.”

The coach or teammates can respond, “We’ve got the other 40%.”

This establishes a regular check-in system instead of waiting until something appears obviously wrong. It also helps coaches identify patterns when the same athlete repeatedly reports a low number.

Weekly Athlete Journal

Give athletes a short weekly reflection containing questions such as:

  • What went well this week?
  • What challenged you?
  • What did you learn?
  • What support do you need?
  • Is there anything you need from the coaching staff?

Writing can provide an easier communication route for athletes who struggle with face-to-face conversations.

Shoulder-to-Shoulder Conversations

Many young people communicate more comfortably while moving and looking ahead rather than maintaining direct eye contact.

Post-Competition Feedback Rule

Immediately after competition, emphasize effort, connection, and what went well. Save detailed technical correction for a time when the athlete and coach are emotionally regulated and able to reflect productively.

Regular Athlete Feedback

Do not wait until the final exit interview. Ask throughout the season:

  • What is helping you improve?
  • What is making practice difficult?
  • What could we communicate more clearly?
  • What does the team need from the coaching staff?
  • What should we continue doing?


Educational AD podcast

Hangin with the ADs podcast

Pure Athlete podcast

Youth Inc with Greg Olson podcast

Healthy Sports Parents podcast

AD 360 podcast

 Middle School AD podcast

AD Insider podcast

Welcome to Talkin' with the AD! 

LET'S GO!!

Better Youth Coaching
Mission is to improve amateur sports through education of parents, coaches, and athletes

Better Youth Coaching
Mission is to improve amateur sports through education of parents, coaches, and athletes

Support the show

Visit betteryouthcoaching.com - information for parents, coaches, and athletes.

SOCIALS

Facebook - talkinwiththead

X - Talkin’ with the AD

Instagram - talkin_with_the_ad

YouTube - Talkin' with the AD

Tik Tok - Talkin' with the AD

]]> Coach Morgan Sullivan, CAA, RMSAA, CIC, NFHS Level 3 Coach, NFHS Level 3 MS Coach Buzzsprout-19589332 Mon, 03 Aug 2026 08:00:00 -0400 5397 athlete mental health, student-athlete mental health, mental health in sports, coach-athlete relationships, sports psychology, mental performance, youth sports burnout, athlete anxiety, athlete depression, coaching young athletes, middle school sports, hi 2026 3 full false But My Kid Should Be Starting But My Kid Should Be Starting Send us Fan Mail

When your athlete is not starting—or is playing fewer minutes than expected—what should you do next?

In this episode of Talkin’ with the AD, Coach Sullivan tackles one of the most emotional and difficult conversations in youth and school sports: playing time. You’ll learn why the athlete should usually speak with the coach first, how parents can advocate without creating confrontation, who should attend a meeting, and when it is appropriate to involve the athletic director.

This episode also offers practical questions athletes and parents can ask, phrases that can make the situation worse, and important reminders for coaches about honesty, consistency, communication, and treating every athlete with dignity. The goal is not to guarantee a starting position—it is to help young athletes develop ownership, resilience, and the ability to respond when things do not go their way.

Have a question for Coach Sullivan? Visit betteryouthcoaching.com and click “Ask the AD.” Your question could be featured in a future episode.

#PlayingTime #SportsParents #StudentAthletes #YouthSports #Coaching #AthleticDirector #Sportsmanship #Baseball #Football #Basketball #Soccer #Volleyball #TrackAndField #HighSchool #MiddleSchool #JuniorHigh #Sports

Welcome to Talkin' with the AD! 

LET'S GO!!

Better Youth Coaching
Mission is to improve amateur sports through education of parents, coaches, and athletes

Better Youth Coaching
Mission is to improve amateur sports through education of parents, coaches, and athletes

Support the show

Visit betteryouthcoaching.com - information for parents, coaches, and athletes.

SOCIALS

Facebook - talkinwiththead

X - Talkin’ with the AD

Instagram - talkin_with_the_ad

YouTube - Talkin' with the AD

Tik Tok - Talkin' with the AD

]]> Send us Fan Mail

When your athlete is not starting—or is playing fewer minutes than expected—what should you do next?

In this episode of Talkin’ with the AD, Coach Sullivan tackles one of the most emotional and difficult conversations in youth and school sports: playing time. You’ll learn why the athlete should usually speak with the coach first, how parents can advocate without creating confrontation, who should attend a meeting, and when it is appropriate to involve the athletic director.

This episode also offers practical questions athletes and parents can ask, phrases that can make the situation worse, and important reminders for coaches about honesty, consistency, communication, and treating every athlete with dignity. The goal is not to guarantee a starting position—it is to help young athletes develop ownership, resilience, and the ability to respond when things do not go their way.

Have a question for Coach Sullivan? Visit betteryouthcoaching.com and click “Ask the AD.” Your question could be featured in a future episode.

#PlayingTime #SportsParents #StudentAthletes #YouthSports #Coaching #AthleticDirector #Sportsmanship #Baseball #Football #Basketball #Soccer #Volleyball #TrackAndField #HighSchool #MiddleSchool #JuniorHigh #Sports

Welcome to Talkin' with the AD! 

LET'S GO!!

Better Youth Coaching
Mission is to improve amateur sports through education of parents, coaches, and athletes

Better Youth Coaching
Mission is to improve amateur sports through education of parents, coaches, and athletes

Support the show

Visit betteryouthcoaching.com - information for parents, coaches, and athletes.

SOCIALS

Facebook - talkinwiththead

X - Talkin’ with the AD

Instagram - talkin_with_the_ad

YouTube - Talkin' with the AD

Tik Tok - Talkin' with the AD

]]> Coach Morgan Sullivan, CAA, RMSAA, CIC, NFHS Level 3 Coach, NFHS Level 3 MS Coach Buzzsprout-19491170 Tue, 14 Jul 2026 06:00:00 -0400 1820 2026 2 full false Winning Beyond the Scoreboard: How Great Sports Cultures Keep Kids in the Game Winning Beyond the Scoreboard: How Great Sports Cultures Keep Kids in the Game Send us Fan Mail

What really makes a winning athletic program?

In this episode of Talkin’ with the AD, Coach Sullivan explores why culture is not the opposite of winning—it is the foundation that makes winning sustainable. From youth sports and high school athletics to travel ball and club sports, adults often chase trophies, scholarships, playing time, and early specialization. But what happens when athletes stop having fun before they ever reach their potential?

This episode takes an honest, research-informed look at why young athletes leave sports, how playing time and coaching behavior affect retention, and why positive team culture matters for parents, coaches, athletic directors, and players.

You’ll hear practical insight on:

• Why “fun” and friendships remain central reasons kids continue playing sports
• How limited playing time can affect athlete retention and confidence
• Why coaches’ communication, relationships, and daily habits matter so much
• The risks of early sport specialization, burnout, and overuse injuries
• Why families cannot outspend a poor team culture with travel teams, private lessons, or elite programs
• How strong cultures help teams keep athletes involved, connected, and competitive over time
• One practical action parents, coaches, athletic directors, and athletes can take this week

This is not an argument against competing, pursuing championships, or wanting to win. It is a reminder that education-based athletics should develop people while pursuing excellence. The best programs build relationships, create belonging, teach resilience, and give athletes a reason to keep showing up.

Whether you are a sports parent wondering how to best support your child, a coach building a team, an athletic director shaping a department, or an athlete trying to find your place, this episode is for you.

Subscribe to Talkin’ with the AD for weekly conversations designed to improve amateur sports through better communication, healthier culture, stronger leadership, and practical solutions.

Learn more and submit a question for the mailbag at BetterYouthCoaching.com.

#TalkinWithTheAD #YouthSports #HighSchoolSports #SportsParent #CoachingCulture #Sportsmanship #AthleticDirector #StudentAthlete #PositiveCoaching #TeamCulture #YouthSportsResearch #MultiSportAthlete #SportsSpecialization #TravelBall #AAUSports #CoachDevelopment #AthleteWellBeing #EducationBasedAthletics #BetterYouthCoaching

Welcome to Talkin' with the AD! 

LET'S GO!!

Better Youth Coaching
Mission is to improve amateur sports through education of parents, coaches, and athletes

Better Youth Coaching
Mission is to improve amateur sports through education of parents, coaches, and athletes

Better Youth Coaching
Mission is to improve amateur sports through education of parents, coaches, and athletes

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Support the show

Visit betteryouthcoaching.com - information for parents, coaches, and athletes.

SOCIALS

Facebook - talkinwiththead

X - Talkin’ with the AD

Instagram - talkin_with_the_ad

YouTube - Talkin' with the AD

Tik Tok - Talkin' with the AD

]]> Send us Fan Mail

What really makes a winning athletic program?

In this episode of Talkin’ with the AD, Coach Sullivan explores why culture is not the opposite of winning—it is the foundation that makes winning sustainable. From youth sports and high school athletics to travel ball and club sports, adults often chase trophies, scholarships, playing time, and early specialization. But what happens when athletes stop having fun before they ever reach their potential?

This episode takes an honest, research-informed look at why young athletes leave sports, how playing time and coaching behavior affect retention, and why positive team culture matters for parents, coaches, athletic directors, and players.

You’ll hear practical insight on:

• Why “fun” and friendships remain central reasons kids continue playing sports
• How limited playing time can affect athlete retention and confidence
• Why coaches’ communication, relationships, and daily habits matter so much
• The risks of early sport specialization, burnout, and overuse injuries
• Why families cannot outspend a poor team culture with travel teams, private lessons, or elite programs
• How strong cultures help teams keep athletes involved, connected, and competitive over time
• One practical action parents, coaches, athletic directors, and athletes can take this week

This is not an argument against competing, pursuing championships, or wanting to win. It is a reminder that education-based athletics should develop people while pursuing excellence. The best programs build relationships, create belonging, teach resilience, and give athletes a reason to keep showing up.

Whether you are a sports parent wondering how to best support your child, a coach building a team, an athletic director shaping a department, or an athlete trying to find your place, this episode is for you.

Subscribe to Talkin’ with the AD for weekly conversations designed to improve amateur sports through better communication, healthier culture, stronger leadership, and practical solutions.

Learn more and submit a question for the mailbag at BetterYouthCoaching.com.

#TalkinWithTheAD #YouthSports #HighSchoolSports #SportsParent #CoachingCulture #Sportsmanship #AthleticDirector #StudentAthlete #PositiveCoaching #TeamCulture #YouthSportsResearch #MultiSportAthlete #SportsSpecialization #TravelBall #AAUSports #CoachDevelopment #AthleteWellBeing #EducationBasedAthletics #BetterYouthCoaching

Welcome to Talkin' with the AD! 

LET'S GO!!

Better Youth Coaching
Mission is to improve amateur sports through education of parents, coaches, and athletes

Better Youth Coaching
Mission is to improve amateur sports through education of parents, coaches, and athletes

Better Youth Coaching
Mission is to improve amateur sports through education of parents, coaches, and athletes

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Support the show

Visit betteryouthcoaching.com - information for parents, coaches, and athletes.

SOCIALS

Facebook - talkinwiththead

X - Talkin’ with the AD

Instagram - talkin_with_the_ad

YouTube - Talkin' with the AD

Tik Tok - Talkin' with the AD

]]> Coach Morgan Sullivan, RAA, RMSAA, CIC, NFHS Level 3 Coach Buzzsprout-19452780 Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:00:00 -0400 1358 2026 1 full false The Role of the Athletic Director The Role of the Athletic Director Send us Fan Mail

What does an Athletic Director actually do? If your first thought is “schedule games and unlock the gym,” this episode is going to open your eyes.

In this deep-dive solo episode, Coach Sullivan pulls back the curtain on one of the most misunderstood roles in education and athletics: the high school Athletic Director. From balancing budgets to managing facilities, handling parent concerns, supporting coaches, enforcing compliance, and dealing with last-minute emergencies—this isn’t a job for the faint of heart.

Coach Sullivan walks listeners through the real responsibilities of the AD role, weaving in personal insight, national statistics, and stories from the field. Whether you're a parent, coach, school admin, or just curious about what happens behind the scenes in school sports, this episode will give you a whole new level of respect for the person behind the whistle—and the clipboard, the walkie-talkie, the AED, the budget spreadsheet, and about 17 other things.

🎯 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

  • Why scheduling isn’t just a calendar task—it’s a strategic balancing act
  • The reality of athletic budgets, and how ADs stretch every dollar
  • How ADs navigate parent concerns, drama, and expectations
  • Why facilities management is one of the most overlooked stressors
  • The legal and compliance duties every AD carries (and how they stay on top of it)
  • How hiring and mentoring coaches shapes the culture of an entire program
  • The truth about stress, work-life balance, and why ADs burn out
  • And what “All Duties, All Day” really looks like in practice

💬 Featuring quotes from:
 – Doug Ute, Executive Director, OHSAA
 – Survey data from NFHS, NIAAA, Coach & A.D. Magazine
 – Insights from Coach Sullivan’s years in the trenches

If you’re a parent wondering why the AD hasn’t returned your call at 6:30 p.m. on game night, a coach looking to understand your AD better, or an aspiring administrator trying to grasp what this job really is—this episode is for you.

📢 Don’t forget to subscribe to Talkin’ with the AD and visit BetterYouthCoaching.com for more resources and tools to support coaches, parents, and athletes.

🎧 Listen now to gain a behind-the-scenes perspective of school sports you’ll never forget.
#AthleticDirector #HighSchoolSports #BetterYouthCoaching #SportsLeadership #CoachLife #AthleticAdmin #NFHS #YouthSports #ParentEducation #TalkinWithTheAD

Welcome to Talkin' with the AD! 

LET'S GO!!

Better Youth Coaching
Mission is to improve amateur sports through education of parents, coaches, and athletes

Better Youth Coaching
Mission is to improve amateur sports through education of parents, coaches, and athletes

Support the show

Visit betteryouthcoaching.com - information for parents, coaches, and athletes.

SOCIALS

Facebook - talkinwiththead

X - Talkin’ with the AD

Instagram - talkin_with_the_ad

YouTube - Talkin' with the AD

Tik Tok - Talkin' with the AD

]]> Send us Fan Mail

What does an Athletic Director actually do? If your first thought is “schedule games and unlock the gym,” this episode is going to open your eyes.

In this deep-dive solo episode, Coach Sullivan pulls back the curtain on one of the most misunderstood roles in education and athletics: the high school Athletic Director. From balancing budgets to managing facilities, handling parent concerns, supporting coaches, enforcing compliance, and dealing with last-minute emergencies—this isn’t a job for the faint of heart.

Coach Sullivan walks listeners through the real responsibilities of the AD role, weaving in personal insight, national statistics, and stories from the field. Whether you're a parent, coach, school admin, or just curious about what happens behind the scenes in school sports, this episode will give you a whole new level of respect for the person behind the whistle—and the clipboard, the walkie-talkie, the AED, the budget spreadsheet, and about 17 other things.

🎯 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

  • Why scheduling isn’t just a calendar task—it’s a strategic balancing act
  • The reality of athletic budgets, and how ADs stretch every dollar
  • How ADs navigate parent concerns, drama, and expectations
  • Why facilities management is one of the most overlooked stressors
  • The legal and compliance duties every AD carries (and how they stay on top of it)
  • How hiring and mentoring coaches shapes the culture of an entire program
  • The truth about stress, work-life balance, and why ADs burn out
  • And what “All Duties, All Day” really looks like in practice

💬 Featuring quotes from:
 – Doug Ute, Executive Director, OHSAA
 – Survey data from NFHS, NIAAA, Coach & A.D. Magazine
 – Insights from Coach Sullivan’s years in the trenches

If you’re a parent wondering why the AD hasn’t returned your call at 6:30 p.m. on game night, a coach looking to understand your AD better, or an aspiring administrator trying to grasp what this job really is—this episode is for you.

📢 Don’t forget to subscribe to Talkin’ with the AD and visit BetterYouthCoaching.com for more resources and tools to support coaches, parents, and athletes.

🎧 Listen now to gain a behind-the-scenes perspective of school sports you’ll never forget.
#AthleticDirector #HighSchoolSports #BetterYouthCoaching #SportsLeadership #CoachLife #AthleticAdmin #NFHS #YouthSports #ParentEducation #TalkinWithTheAD

Welcome to Talkin' with the AD! 

LET'S GO!!

Better Youth Coaching
Mission is to improve amateur sports through education of parents, coaches, and athletes

Better Youth Coaching
Mission is to improve amateur sports through education of parents, coaches, and athletes

Support the show

Visit betteryouthcoaching.com - information for parents, coaches, and athletes.

SOCIALS

Facebook - talkinwiththead

X - Talkin’ with the AD

Instagram - talkin_with_the_ad

YouTube - Talkin' with the AD

Tik Tok - Talkin' with the AD

]]> Coach Morgan Sullivan, RAA, RMSAA, CIC, NFHS Level 3 Coach Buzzsprout-17543674 Tue, 22 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0400 1250 5 full false Social Media and Recruiting: What Athletes and Parents Need to Know Social Media and Recruiting: What Athletes and Parents Need to Know Send us Fan Mail

In this 15-minute solo episode, Coach Morgan Sullivan breaks down one of the most overlooked but critical factors in the college recruiting process: your athlete’s social media presence. With insights drawn from real conversations with college coaches, national surveys, and personal experience, this episode explores how Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube can either open doors—or close them.

You'll learn:

  • Why 90% of college coaches monitor social media
  • Red flags that immediately turn recruiters away
  • What athletes should be posting to stand out
  • Platform-specific tips for building a professional online brand
  • How parents can support (without sabotaging) the recruiting journey

Whether your athlete dreams of D1 scholarships or just wants to make a roster, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help them stand out—in all the right ways.

👉 Visit BetterYouthCoaching.com for bonus recruiting tools and free downloads.

#recruiting #youthsports #highschoolsports #socialmedia #collegeathletics #TalkinWithTheAD

Welcome to Talkin' with the AD! 

LET'S GO!!

Better Youth Coaching
Mission is to improve amateur sports through education of parents, coaches, and athletes

Better Youth Coaching
Mission is to improve amateur sports through education of parents, coaches, and athletes

Support the show

Visit betteryouthcoaching.com - information for parents, coaches, and athletes.

SOCIALS

Facebook - talkinwiththead

X - Talkin’ with the AD

Instagram - talkin_with_the_ad

YouTube - Talkin' with the AD

Tik Tok - Talkin' with the AD

]]> Send us Fan Mail

In this 15-minute solo episode, Coach Morgan Sullivan breaks down one of the most overlooked but critical factors in the college recruiting process: your athlete’s social media presence. With insights drawn from real conversations with college coaches, national surveys, and personal experience, this episode explores how Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube can either open doors—or close them.

You'll learn:

  • Why 90% of college coaches monitor social media
  • Red flags that immediately turn recruiters away
  • What athletes should be posting to stand out
  • Platform-specific tips for building a professional online brand
  • How parents can support (without sabotaging) the recruiting journey

Whether your athlete dreams of D1 scholarships or just wants to make a roster, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help them stand out—in all the right ways.

👉 Visit BetterYouthCoaching.com for bonus recruiting tools and free downloads.

#recruiting #youthsports #highschoolsports #socialmedia #collegeathletics #TalkinWithTheAD

Welcome to Talkin' with the AD! 

LET'S GO!!

Better Youth Coaching
Mission is to improve amateur sports through education of parents, coaches, and athletes

Better Youth Coaching
Mission is to improve amateur sports through education of parents, coaches, and athletes

Support the show

Visit betteryouthcoaching.com - information for parents, coaches, and athletes.

SOCIALS

Facebook - talkinwiththead

X - Talkin’ with the AD

Instagram - talkin_with_the_ad

YouTube - Talkin' with the AD

Tik Tok - Talkin' with the AD

]]> Buzzsprout-17540972 Mon, 21 Jul 2025 22:00:00 -0400 930 4 full false The Truth About Travel Sports: What Every Parent Needs to Know The Truth About Travel Sports: What Every Parent Needs to Know Send us Fan Mail

Thinking about travel sports for your kid? Before you commit to that club soccer, AAU basketball, or travel baseball team, hit play on this episode of Talkin’ with the A.D.

Coach Sullivan breaks down the rise of travel teams in youth sports, what they offer, what they really cost, and whether they’re worth the time, energy, and financial investment. From recruiting exposure and elite coaching to burnout, overuse injuries, and family strain, we unpack it all.

If you're a sports parent, coach, or athletic director navigating the world of club sports, this episode offers 5 must-hear tips to help your athlete thrive without losing balance.

🎯 Topics Covered:

  • What is a travel team vs. school or rec sports
  • Pros and cons of joining a travel program
  • Hidden costs (time, money, mental health)
  • College recruiting and athletic scholarship myths
  • How to support your athlete without overcommitting

🔗 Visit betteryouthcoaching.com for tools and resources to help you build better athletes—and better humans.
👍 Follow, rate, and share if this helped you make a smart move for your family or team.

Welcome to Talkin' with the AD! 

LET'S GO!!

Better Youth Coaching
Mission is to improve amateur sports through education of parents, coaches, and athletes

Better Youth Coaching
Mission is to improve amateur sports through education of parents, coaches, and athletes

Support the show

Visit betteryouthcoaching.com - information for parents, coaches, and athletes.

SOCIALS

Facebook - talkinwiththead

X - Talkin’ with the AD

Instagram - talkin_with_the_ad

YouTube - Talkin' with the AD

Tik Tok - Talkin' with the AD

]]> Send us Fan Mail

Thinking about travel sports for your kid? Before you commit to that club soccer, AAU basketball, or travel baseball team, hit play on this episode of Talkin’ with the A.D.

Coach Sullivan breaks down the rise of travel teams in youth sports, what they offer, what they really cost, and whether they’re worth the time, energy, and financial investment. From recruiting exposure and elite coaching to burnout, overuse injuries, and family strain, we unpack it all.

If you're a sports parent, coach, or athletic director navigating the world of club sports, this episode offers 5 must-hear tips to help your athlete thrive without losing balance.

🎯 Topics Covered:

  • What is a travel team vs. school or rec sports
  • Pros and cons of joining a travel program
  • Hidden costs (time, money, mental health)
  • College recruiting and athletic scholarship myths
  • How to support your athlete without overcommitting

🔗 Visit betteryouthcoaching.com for tools and resources to help you build better athletes—and better humans.
👍 Follow, rate, and share if this helped you make a smart move for your family or team.

Welcome to Talkin' with the AD! 

LET'S GO!!

Better Youth Coaching
Mission is to improve amateur sports through education of parents, coaches, and athletes

Better Youth Coaching
Mission is to improve amateur sports through education of parents, coaches, and athletes

Support the show

Visit betteryouthcoaching.com - information for parents, coaches, and athletes.

SOCIALS

Facebook - talkinwiththead

X - Talkin’ with the AD

Instagram - talkin_with_the_ad

YouTube - Talkin' with the AD

Tik Tok - Talkin' with the AD

]]> https://www.betteryouthcoaching.com/podcast Coach Sullivan, RAA, RMSAA, CIC, NFHS Level 3 Coach Buzzsprout-17338787 Sun, 15 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0400 1517 YouthSports, SportsParents, SupportYourAthlete, HighSchoolSports, SportsmanshipMatters, EducationBasedAthletics, BetterYouthCoaching 3 full false Love Blinders: Why Parents and Coaches See Games Differently Love Blinders: Why Parents and Coaches See Games Differently Send us Fan Mail

You love your kid—that’s not the issue. But sometimes, that deep love can cloud how we see their role on the team. In this episode, we dive into a phenomenon I call “Love Blinders”—the emotional lens parents often wear when watching their child compete. We’ll talk honestly about why playing time decisions are more complex than they appear, how parents and coaches see games differently, and how to support your athlete in a way that builds confidence, not entitlement.

We’ll break down:
 ✅ What “Love Blinders” are and why they’re normal
 ✅ The difference between the parent lens and the coach lens
 ✅ Five practical ways to support your athlete with clarity and perspective
 ✅ Why trusting the coach matters more than you think
 ✅ How adversity can be a powerful teacher

Whether you’re a parent, coach, or both—this episode will challenge, encourage, and equip you to navigate  high school sports with a healthier mindset.

Go to betteryouthcoaching.com for more ways to help your child navigate their athletic career. 

Welcome to Talkin' with the AD! 

LET'S GO!!

Better Youth Coaching
Mission is to improve amateur sports through education of parents, coaches, and athletes

Better Youth Coaching
Mission is to improve amateur sports through education of parents, coaches, and athletes

Support the show

Visit betteryouthcoaching.com - information for parents, coaches, and athletes.

SOCIALS

Facebook - talkinwiththead

X - Talkin’ with the AD

Instagram - talkin_with_the_ad

YouTube - Talkin' with the AD

Tik Tok - Talkin' with the AD

]]> Send us Fan Mail

You love your kid—that’s not the issue. But sometimes, that deep love can cloud how we see their role on the team. In this episode, we dive into a phenomenon I call “Love Blinders”—the emotional lens parents often wear when watching their child compete. We’ll talk honestly about why playing time decisions are more complex than they appear, how parents and coaches see games differently, and how to support your athlete in a way that builds confidence, not entitlement.

We’ll break down:
 ✅ What “Love Blinders” are and why they’re normal
 ✅ The difference between the parent lens and the coach lens
 ✅ Five practical ways to support your athlete with clarity and perspective
 ✅ Why trusting the coach matters more than you think
 ✅ How adversity can be a powerful teacher

Whether you’re a parent, coach, or both—this episode will challenge, encourage, and equip you to navigate  high school sports with a healthier mindset.

Go to betteryouthcoaching.com for more ways to help your child navigate their athletic career. 

Welcome to Talkin' with the AD! 

LET'S GO!!

Better Youth Coaching
Mission is to improve amateur sports through education of parents, coaches, and athletes

Better Youth Coaching
Mission is to improve amateur sports through education of parents, coaches, and athletes

Support the show

Visit betteryouthcoaching.com - information for parents, coaches, and athletes.

SOCIALS

Facebook - talkinwiththead

X - Talkin’ with the AD

Instagram - talkin_with_the_ad

YouTube - Talkin' with the AD

Tik Tok - Talkin' with the AD

]]> https://www.betteryouthcoaching.com/podcast Coach Sullivan, RAA, RMSAA, CIC, NFHS Level 3 Coach Buzzsprout-17338474 Sun, 15 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0400 1016 YouthSports, SportsParents, SupportYourAthlete, HighSchoolSports, SportsmanshipMatters, EducationBasedAthletics, BetterYouthCoaching 2 full false Welcome to Talkin’ with the A.D. – Your Backstage Pass to Amateur Sports Welcome to Talkin’ with the A.D. – Your Backstage Pass to Amateur Sports Send us Fan Mail

Strap in for the very first episode of Talkin’ with the A.D., where host Coach Sullivan—20-year Army veteran, multi-sport coach, and current athletic director lays out the why, what, and how of this brand-new show. In just a few minutes you’ll learn:

  • Who’s behind the mic: From combat zones to crowded bleachers, Coach Sullivan's journey and mission to make amateur sports the best classroom in America.
  • Why this podcast exists: Pull back the curtain on athletic-director decisions, amplify coaches’ voices, and build healthier sideline cultures.
  • What’s coming next: Sneak peeks at upcoming episodes on parental “love blinders,” bad fan behavior fixes, unified strength programs, and the nationwide referee shortage.

If you’re a parent, coach, athlete, or fellow A.D. who believes sportsmanship and player development still matter, hit subscribe and join the conversation. Your download is another teammate in the fight to keep youth and high-school sports fun, fair, and growth-focused.

Support the show

Visit betteryouthcoaching.com - information for parents, coaches, and athletes.

SOCIALS

Facebook - talkinwiththead

X - Talkin’ with the AD

Instagram - talkin_with_the_ad

YouTube - Talkin' with the AD

Tik Tok - Talkin' with the AD

]]> Send us Fan Mail

Strap in for the very first episode of Talkin’ with the A.D., where host Coach Sullivan—20-year Army veteran, multi-sport coach, and current athletic director lays out the why, what, and how of this brand-new show. In just a few minutes you’ll learn:

  • Who’s behind the mic: From combat zones to crowded bleachers, Coach Sullivan's journey and mission to make amateur sports the best classroom in America.
  • Why this podcast exists: Pull back the curtain on athletic-director decisions, amplify coaches’ voices, and build healthier sideline cultures.
  • What’s coming next: Sneak peeks at upcoming episodes on parental “love blinders,” bad fan behavior fixes, unified strength programs, and the nationwide referee shortage.

If you’re a parent, coach, athlete, or fellow A.D. who believes sportsmanship and player development still matter, hit subscribe and join the conversation. Your download is another teammate in the fight to keep youth and high-school sports fun, fair, and growth-focused.

Support the show

Visit betteryouthcoaching.com - information for parents, coaches, and athletes.

SOCIALS

Facebook - talkinwiththead

X - Talkin’ with the AD

Instagram - talkin_with_the_ad

YouTube - Talkin' with the AD

Tik Tok - Talkin' with the AD

]]> Coach Sullivan, RAA, RMSAA, CIC, NFHS Level 3 Coach Buzzsprout-17296952 Sat, 07 Jun 2025 12:00:00 -0400 547 Sports, Youth Sports, Amateur Sports, High School Sports, Athletic Director 1 full false