In this episode of Heaven or Heisman, we sit down with High Point University’s Chase Johnston, whose viral game-winning moment captured national attention—but whose story runs much deeper than one shot. From losing his starting position mid-season to becoming a bold voice for his faith on one of the biggest stages in college basketball, Chase shares how God reshaped not just his circumstances, but his identity.

Together, we explore the tension many athletes feel between performance and purpose. Chase opens up about the quiet unraveling that came when basketball became everything—and the freedom he found when it no longer had to be. Through moments of disappointment, doubt, and unexpected opportunity, his story becomes a picture of what it means to trust God not just in success, but in surrender.

We also dive into the role of discipline, family, and formation—what it looked like to put up 1,500 shots a day, the influence of a brother who spoke hard truth in love, and the parents who built a foundation behind the scenes. It’s a conversation about the unseen work that shapes both the athlete and the person.

Ultimately, this episode is an invitation to reexamine what defines us. To pursue excellence without being consumed by it. And to recognize that the most meaningful victories often come in the moments we least expect—when faith, identity, and purpose align.

Together, we explore the quiet drift many parents feel: starting with good intentions, but slowly getting pulled toward comparison, pressure, and short-term results. John challenges us to start with the end in mind—who do we want our kids to become—and work backwards from there. From the dangers of early specialization to the rising cost and commitment of youth sports, this conversation offers a grounded, research-backed perspective on what truly helps kids thrive.

Ultimately, this episode is a call to play the long game. To value development over status, relationships over results, and joy over burnout. Because when sports are done right, they don’t just build better athletes—they shape healthier, more resilient people for life.

Mike reflects on his own journey as a competitive runner and coach, including the moment his ten-year-old son told him he wanted to go to the Olympics. Instead of rushing into intense training, Mike chose to wait, focusing on playful habits, family challenges, and building the underlying skills that sustain long-term growth. Through stories from coaching elite youth triathletes and lessons from athletes like Stephen Curry and Kobe Bryant, we explore how parents can shift their focus from outcomes to process.

This conversation challenges parents to move from being the drivers of their child’s sports journey to becoming the architects of the environment—creating spaces where discipline, curiosity, and joy in the work can grow naturally over time.

Together, we wrestle with hard questions like what happens when we want something for our kids more than they want it, how presence is different from simply showing up, and why a child’s sport should never become a parent’s resume. This conversation offers practical, faith-centered reminders to slow down, protect connection, and build a foundation where kids know they are loved for who they are, not how they perform.

Together, we wrestle with the tension between winning and growth, why fundamentals and “chaotic” practices matter more than short-term results, and how parents can take ownership of their child’s development without putting unfair pressure on volunteer coaches. This conversation is a reminder that youth sports are a long game, and when we focus on character, confidence, and joy, we give kids something far more valuable than a trophy.

Select Baseball Toxic vs Thriving

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From redefining what “winning” looks like to checking our own hearts when we care more than the kids do, this conversation reminds us that character and joy matter more than the scoreboard. They unpack how to keep kids motivated, handle frustrated parents, and help both the ultra-competitive and the carefree players grow through it all.

Whether your team’s undefeated or winless, this one’s a gut-check for every coach and dad who wants to raise kids who love the game—and don’t lose perspective along the way.

Brian and Ed share their experiences from decades in sports ministry, unpacking how Christian families can thrive in a youth sports world that often feels like “an away game.” They discuss balancing competition with character, the pressure of performance, how parents can model grace from the sidelines, and what it really means to raise kids who love both Jesus and the game.

If you’ve ever wrestled with travel teams, Sunday tournaments, or the tension between sports and church, this episode is for you.

🎧 Listen now to discover how to win what really matters.

Jean recounts showing up at a high-level youth football tournament where the teams, coaches, and even parents had coordinated looks that created an atmosphere of professionalism and intimidation. The discussion covers practical basics—properly fitting cleats, inflated balls, and a good backpack—as well as optional accessories for self-expression, like sunglasses or armbands.

The conversation shifts to deeper lessons: teaching kids their identity is in Christ, not in their gear, and building resilience so they can play well even without their preferred equipment. Ultimately, the message is to do the basics well, let personality shine within reason, and keep confidence rooted in skill and faith—not just appearance.

Key Takeaways

• Principle Matters: The “look good, feel good, play good” mindset can boost confidence and send a message of professionalism and readiness.
• Start with Basics: Properly fitting gear, an inflated ball, and a simple backpack go a long way—fancy extras aren’t necessary.
• Balance Expression & Practicality: Allow kids to express their personality through accessories if it’s fun for them, but avoid over-reliance on appearance.
• Root Confidence in the Right Place: Remind kids their worth and success aren’t defined by what they wear but by their identity in Christ (Colossians 3:23).
• Foster Resilience: Equip kids to adapt and perform even when missing their usual gear—confidence should come from skill, preparation, and mindset.

From cutting down wasted minutes in lines and water breaks to teaching skills at the “edge of ability,” the conversation is full of practical insights for parents, coaches, and athletes alike. You’ll hear stories about Jonathan Isaac’s faith-driven shoe brand, lessons from the Williams sisters’ early training, and why unstructured play might be one of the best ways kids can grow.

Whether you’re a coach looking to run better practices or a parent wanting to support your child’s love of the game, this episode gives you actionable tools and encouragement to help kids truly get better—and enjoy the process along the way.

From rushed car rides and late-night practices to forgotten shin guards and Chick-fil-A dinners in the backseat, they unpack the cost of living life at a frenetic pace. You’ll hear practical ways to slow down, protect family relationships, and reclaim joy—without giving up on sports altogether. Whether you’re a parent juggling multiple kids’ schedules or someone craving a slower, more intentional life, this episode offers both conviction and encouragement.

Key Takeaways:

• Why hurry and love can’t coexist
• How rushing creates anxiety in kids (and parents)
• Practical ways to embrace a slower schedule in youth sports
• The freedom of redefining commitment to a team
• How to use car rides and downtime for deeper connection

From Solomon’s wisdom to the grind of professional athletes, the crew explores why even at the very top, achievement often feels empty. They dive into the tension between joy and happiness, the fleeting nature of success, and how faith reshapes our understanding of work, family, and calling. Along the way, you’ll hear stories of triumph, struggle, and the lessons parents and athletes alike can draw from sports culture.

If you’ve ever wrestled with the question, “Is this it?”—this episode will challenge and encourage you to see beyond accomplishments to the deeper source of lasting joy.

Key Takeaways

• Youth sports motivation has shifted from fun to fame, money, and exposure.
• Year-round specialization is erasing the seasonal variety and joy of multiple sports.
• Fast-tracking kids’ development often comes at the expense of long-term growth.
• Access to elite opportunities is increasingly tied to wealth and connections.
• Parents’ roles are moving from supportive cheerleaders to high-stakes investors.
• Kids are being branded as athletes first, rather than being valued as children.
• Burnout, anxiety, and depression are real risks in this pressurized environment.
• The culture around sports often mirrors the idolization of money in Scripture.
• Families can model a healthier culture by redefining success and celebrating character.
• Change starts one kid, one team, one family at a time.

He talks candidly about the culture of performance, how sports can form (or misshape) young men, and what it means to raise kids who are tough, humble, and rooted in faith. From Highland Park wrestling rooms to hospital beds, Keegan’s story is a raw reminder that sometimes God uses unexpected moments to slow us down and remind us who’s really in control.

Whether you’re a parent, coach, athlete, or just someone who needs encouragement to find purpose beyond performance, you’ll walk away challenged and inspired.

You'll hear real-life strategies for how parents and coaches can help kids play with passion without tying their identity to performance. Whether it's a reminder to “give 1,000%” or examples of kids learning to lead through sports, this episode offers a compelling vision for raising confident, purpose-driven young athletes.

We explore how many top athletes, like Lionel Messi and Michael Jordan, grew up playing with makeshift equipment, which helped them develop fundamental skills. The message is simple: Save your money, focus on developing your child’s abilities, and skip the pressure to buy the fanciest gear. Whether it’s a secondhand bat or a budget-friendly soccer ball, it’s the effort and fundamentals that make all the difference in the game. Tune in for some practical advice and a refreshing perspective on youth sports.

Through real-life scenarios and proven strategies, we discuss how to encourage your child to embrace their role, support their teammates, and handle challenges with resilience. Plus, we’ll talk about the importance of teaching your child how to be a friend and communicate effectively, skills that will last far beyond the game. Tune in for some helpful advice on how to raise a strong, supportive teammate!

Rob’s experience in coaching his children through everything from soccer and tennis to golf provides practical wisdom for any parent trying to balance their child's athletic ambitions with a flourishing family life. Whether you’re considering travel teams, managing busy schedules, or wondering how to incorporate faith into sports, this episode offers a refreshing perspective. Rob shares stories of triumphs and challenges that remind us that the most important goal isn’t winning—it’s growing together as a family, with a solid foundation in faith and character.

We talk about how sports can be a powerful platform for teaching our kids biblical values like being a good teammate, showing grace under pressure, and staying true to their unique identity. We also reflect on moments when our own kids have been tested in sports and how we’ve used those times to point them back to God. Plus, we discuss how to turn everyday moments—like car rides to practice—into opportunities for spiritual growth.

Whether you're coaching or just cheering from the sidelines, we believe that sports can be an amazing tool for teaching our kids how to live out their faith. Tune in to hear how we can make those lessons stick, even when things don’t go as planned.

Join us for a fun and candid conversation on the Heaven or Heisman podcast, where we sit down with Pastor Timothy Ateek to dive into the impact of youth sports on our kids, our families, and our values.

We tackle tough topics like the pressure to win at all costs, how sports can shape our kids' identities, and the role faith plays in all of it.

From dealing with competition to balancing church and game day, we offer some practical advice for parents trying to navigate the fast-paced world of sports while keeping faith and family at the forefront.

Plus, we’ll share how to keep your priorities in check and raise kids who understand that winning isn’t everything—faith and character are!

It’s a must-listen for anyone juggling sports schedules and family values. Tune in and let's figure out how to do it all, together!

We talk about how to immerse your child in the world of sports—from watching games together to wearing jerseys and engaging in friendly competitions in the backyard. But we also explore the importance of balancing their interests and passions, ensuring that sports become part of a well-rounded life, not the only focus. At the end of the day, it's about making sure they know that whatever they pursue, it’s for a higher purpose—and it’s all for Jesus. Tune in for practical tips and real-life examples to help your child build a lasting love for sports!

From the myth of needing to start early to the importance of fostering a love for the game, we share personal stories, expert insights, and practical advice to help guide your kids without pushing them too hard. Whether it's about the pressure of competitive sports, finding the right balance between encouragement and performance, or building resilience through failure, we tackle all the challenges parents face on the sidelines. Tune in for conversations that blend faith, family, and the heart of athletics—because success in sports isn’t just about winning, it’s about becoming the best version of yourself.

We’ll explore how to instill discipline and work ethic at a young age, as well as the importance of mixing in fun games that keep them engaged. From negotiating with M&Ms to teaching complex skills like a Maradona move in the living room, we’ve got ideas to help you bring out the best in your little athlete.

If you’re a parent looking to boost your child’s passion and practice routine—without burning them out—this episode is for you. Let’s make practicing feel like fun and keep that love for the game growing!

Whether your child is struggling to take a shot or needs a little push to try something new, this episode is packed with tips you can implement today. From focusing on the right kind of praise to encouraging healthy risks, we explore how to create a foundation for lifelong confidence—both on and off the field. Tune in for a mix of fun, encouragement, and actionable advice!

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We’re here to talk through these stats and what they really mean for your family. From the financial burdens of club sports to the rare chances of making it to the professional level, we’re exploring how to navigate the pressures and focus on what truly matters—raising kids who enjoy sports, grow in character, and keep their faith front and center. Join us as we share personal stories, stats that might surprise you, and practical tips on how to keep the journey fun and fulfilling for your kids—no matter where they end up. Let’s dig in!

With our combined experience in coaching and playing at the highest levels, we’ve seen the pressure from both sides. Whether you're just trying to figure it all out or are knee-deep in the madness, we understand. Every episode, we share practical tips, stories, and guests to help you navigate this complex world of youth sports while ensuring your kids stay rooted in their identity in Christ. Let’s dive in—together!