Youth Inc. with Greg Olsen

Abby Wambach and Julie Foudy join Greg for a conversation that hits at the heart of modern parenting. In a world where kids are constantly being watched, tracked, and evaluated, Abby makes the case for something simple but powerful: kids need space. Space to play, to fail, to problem-solve, and to figure out who they are without always feeling eyes on them. They talk about why unsupervised play still matters, how too much oversight can quietly hold kids back, and what it really takes to raise confident, independent young people today.

Greg welcomes Coach RAC and Coach Ballgame for a conversation that gets to the core of what youth baseball should be. The group reflects on the Savannah Bananas’ stop in Charlotte, the joy and energy they bring to the field, and the inspiration behind Crashin’ Practice, Youth Inc.’s new series that surprises local teams with meaningful, high-impact coaching sessions.To learn more or enter, visit https://www.youth.inc/crashin-practiceSign up for our newsletter at https://www.youth.inc/newsletterFor more, visit https://www.youth.inc/

Greg sits down with the Holderness family for an honest, funny, and practical conversation about raising kids in today’s youth sports world. They dig into coaching philosophies, the value of supportive adults outside the home, and what kids actually need from parents on the sidelines and at home. The group also talks about navigating academic pressure, the differences in coaching boys vs. girls, and finding the right balance between ambition, family life, and letting kids simply enjoy the game. A warm, thoughtful episode for any parent, coach, or family in youth sports.Sign up for our newsletter at https://www.youth.inc/newsletterFor more, visit https://www.youth.inc/

This episode is brought to you in partnership with RCX Sports. To learn more, visit https://www.youth.inc/rcxsportsGreg Olsen sits down with author and youth sports expert John O’Sullivan to talk about what it really means to raise the standard in youth sports. From keeping joy at the center, to teaching kids how to truly compete, to finding the balance between development and winning, this conversation is all about building environments where young athletes can thrive.Greg and John break down multi-sport participation, the rise of year-round specialization, how great coaches communicate expectations, and why practice reps matter just as much as game results. Sign up for our newsletter at https://www.youth.inc/newsletterFor more, visit https://www.youth.inc/

Greg sits down with actor Jerry Ferraraurage) and Heisman Trophy winner Matt Leinart, co-hosts ofThrowbacks for an honest, nostalgic conversation about sports, competition, and growing up. The trio dives into lessons from parenting and coaching, and how adversity shapes character both on and off the field, and more. From keeping the passion alive to finding balance in today’s youth sports culture, this episode is a reminder of why we all fell in love with the game in the first place.

This episode is brought to you in partnership with RCX Sports. To learn more, visit https://www.youth.inc/rcxsportsGreg sits down with Super Bowl champion and father of two, Chris Long, for an authentic conversation about parenting, purpose, and the values learned through sports. Together, they reflect on growing up in athletic families, the pressures facing young athletes today, and how parents can strike the right balance between discipline and fun. Sign up for our newsletter at https://www.youth.inc/newsletterFor more, visit https://www.youth.inc/

Greg sits down with three-time All-Star and AL MVP Mo Vaughn to talk about what it really takes to help kids succeed in baseball. They discuss early specialization, the importance of playing multiple sports, and how coaches can create a positive and consistent environment for young athletes. Mo shares his approach to building confidence, developing skills the right way, and focusing on long-term growth instead of short-term wins.

Greg talks with Tennessee Baseball coach Tony Vitello about his coaching philosophy, building team culture, and navigating the modern college baseball world of transfer portals and recruiting. The conversation shifts to youth baseball and the problems Tony sees with how young players are being developed today. He talks about the pressure kids face, the lost art of proper sequencing in development, and what parents should look for in coaches.

In this episode of Youth Inc., Greg sits down with James Clear, bestselling author of Atomic Habits, to talk about how parents and coaches can help young athletes develop the right habits—on and off the field. They discuss the power of identity-based habits, how to create systems that support growth, and why the small things done consistently matter more than big moments. James also shares practical strategies to help kids stay motivated, build confidence, and create lasting change without burning out.

Greg sits down with former MLB All-Star and current MLB broadcaster Jeff Francoeur to discuss what it really takes to develop elite athletes. As the founder of PureAthlete, Jeff shares his philosophy on youth sports development, emphasizing the importance of mental fitness alongside physical training.Jeff opens up about the pressures young athletes face today, how to build resilience and confidence, and why a holistic approach to development matters more than early specialization. Drawing from his 12-year MLB career and work with youth athletes, he offers practical insights for parents, coaches, and athletes looking to maximize their potential.The pair also talk the MLB playoffs, what it takes to get all the way to the Fall Classic, and more.