Linda Flanagan

In a lively discussion, Lauren Fleshman, a world-class runner and author, joins Linda Flanagan, a seasoned runner and coach, to tackle the crisis in girls' sports. They reveal the systemic biases hindering female athletes and advocate for transformative changes in youth sports culture. Highlighting the tension between competition and enjoyment, they explore the pressures on young athletes, the role of parents, and the necessity for inclusivity. The conversation emphasizes the camaraderie and joy that running brings, underscoring the need for a supportive community.

Linda Flanagan, a freelance journalist and author of "Take Back the Game," dives into the pressures surrounding youth sports. She reveals how commercialization has turned play into a competitive battleground, stressing the importance of prioritizing joy over performance. Flanagan discusses parents' roles, urging them to set healthy boundaries and rethink their sidelines behavior. She warns against early specialization and its long-term effects on young athletes' mental well-being, advocating for a supportive environment that nurtures enjoyment and personal growth.

Linda Flanagan, author of 'Take Back the Game' and a documentary creator on collegiate women athletes, passionately discusses the vital need for unsupervised play in childhood. She highlights how the pressures of youth sports can hinder kids' creativity and confidence. Linda encourages parents to rethink their involvement, emphasizing that joy in play should come before adult expectations. With insights on the emotional toll of sports on families, she advocates for reconnecting with nature and family moments outside structured activities.

Linda Flanagan, a freelance journalist, former coach, and author of 'Take Back The Game', discusses the troubling trends in youth sports today. She shares insights on the growing obsession with performance fueled by money and high stakes, and the impact of NIL on young athletes. Flanagan emphasizes the importance of joy in sports, advocating for a multi-sport approach and community-driven initiatives. She also reflects on parenting dynamics, urging parents to support their children's interests without succumbing to competitiveness.

Guests including Linda Flanagan, Nick Mackenzie, R.J. Mackenzie, and John Miller discuss the commercialization of youth baseball and the shift from community leagues to for-profit travel teams. They explore the financial burdens on families, challenges in recruiting top players, and the impact on less skilled kids. The podcast addresses the disparity in youth sports participation and initiatives for affordable opportunities in underserved communities.