Children nowadays have the luxury of being able to choose from a wide range of athletic activities. Though this is fantastic for their long-term development, youth sports have become more intense and competitive than ever before, which can pose a risk to our kids' mental health and overall well-being. So, how can we raise happy, healthy athletes while nurturing them into kind, compassionate, confident, and well-focused young adults who are empowered to passionately pursue their goals? Introducing Kirsten Jones, Peak Performance and Sports Parenting Coach and author of ‘Raising Empowered Athletes’. Packed with actionable advice, this episode is the ultimate roadmap if you’re a parent trying to navigate the challenges, decisions, and pressures of youth sports! Listen and Learn:  What are the advantages of our kids engaging in sports? What are the biggest pitfalls of our modern-day youth sports culture? How can we support instead of pressure our athletes? Ways to help increase internal motivation in your kids How to identify if your child is participating in sports solely just to please you?  Resources:  Kirsten’s book, Raising Empowered Athletes: A Youth Sports Parenting Guide for Raising Happy, Brave, and Resilient Kids Please sign up to receive updates, hear the podcast, or schedule a call at kirstenjonesinc.com @kirstenjonesinc (Facebook and X) @kirstenjonescoach (Instagram and LinkedIn) About Kirsten Jones Kirsten Jones, Peak Performance and Sports Parenting Coach, is a co-host of the #RaisingAthletes Podcast (with Susie Walton) and a motivational speaker. Her first parenting book, Raising Empowered Athletes, launched August 8, 2023 from Triumph Books. Kirsten, a Hall of Fame DI volleyball player from William and Mary and fifteen year NIKE executive, clients include teen athletes (and their parents), where she helps them learn how to reach their goals by releasing their limitations. Kirsten and her husband are raising three athletes themselves (ages 23, 20, & 17) in Los Angeles. Her boys are both DI basketball players and her daughter plays high school volleyball. Kirsten also coaches club volleyball and enjoys traveling anytime she gets the chance. Related Episodes:  324. Toxic Achievement Culture with Jennifer Wallace 328. How to Navigate Change with Brad Stulberg 293. Quit with Annie Duke 205. Thrivers with Michele Borba 194. How to Be (and Raise) an Adult with Julie Lythcott-Haims 161. The Gift of Failure with Jessica Lahey 17. Sports Psychology with Elizabeth Boyer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices