エピソード

  • More Games Won’t Make Your Kid Better – This Will
    2025/03/18

    Spring basketball season is here, and every parent is asking the same question: Should my kid play or focus on training? In this episode, Coach Parker breaks down how to make the right decision based on your child's long-term goals, skill level, and overall development.

    He shares insights from his own experience raising college athletes, working with elite trainers like Coach Adams at Rhythm Dribble (Laurel, MD), and coaching youth teams to success. You'll learn why sometimes skipping spring games in favor of "lab work" (focused skill development) is the smarter move—and why missing out on tournaments doesn’t mean falling behind.

    Other key topics include:

    • How to set spring basketball goals based on where your child needs to be next fall
    • Why development—not just playing games—should be the top priority in middle school
    • The biggest mistake parents make with skills training (hint: it’s not about cone drills)
    • The role of varsity aspirations in shaping your child’s training plan
    • Why elite players focus on efficiency over flash (less dribbling, smarter decision-making)

    Coach Parker also shares his personal development strategy for his 7th-grade son, how he balances multiple sports, and why “success leaves clues” when it comes to skill building.

    Timestamps

    0:00 - Sponsor: CP Basketball Academy Summer Camps – Train with the best this summer
    0:29 - Welcome to the Show – Spring basketball season is here
    1:09 - Should your kid play or train? How to make the right decision
    2:33 - How spring & summer training determine success in the fall
    3:34 - The fear of missing out & why skipping tournaments isn’t falling behind
    5:30 - The value of elite skills training over just playing more games
    6:54 - The true purpose of games: implementing what’s learned in training
    7:29 - Tracking progress: How to measure improvement between training & games
    8:54 - Free Resource: Download the Game Day Guide (wecoachparents.com/game-ready)
    9:25 - Why flashy training doesn’t translate to real games
    10:50 - Kyrie Irving & the power of simplicity in skill development
    12:09 - The long-term goal: Getting varsity-ready by 9th grade
    14:22 - Why skill development is non-negotiable in middle school
    16:25 - How JV & varsity progression works in big programs
    17:54 - Final thoughts: Focus on controlling what you can control

    ...and much more.

    BONUS: The FREE Game Day Guide is LIVE https://wecoachparents.com/gameready

    Hear more from Coach Parker on Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@itscoachparker

    Instagram https://www.instagram.com/itscoachparker/

    Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@itscoachparker

    Got questions for us?
    Email us at Carl@drivewaydads.com with your question, and you might hear the answer on one of our next epidsodes!

    THANKS FOR TUNING IN!

    If you enjoyed this week's show, don't forget to hit the "follow" button. Not only is it totally free, it guarantees you never miss out on future episodes.

    Think you know someone who would enjoy this episode? Do them a favor and share it with them.

    Also, please consider leaving us a quick review. It only takes a few seconds, but your review makes all the difference in helping us get the show out to more parents. And who knows...we might even read your review on the show!

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    19 分
  • Stay Locked In
    2025/03/11

    What separates elite athletes from the rest? Their ability to stay locked in—fully present, focused, and unshaken by the pressure of the moment.

    In this episode, Coach Parker shares a wild moment from his coaching career: being so locked into the game plan that he didn’t even realize the game had ended. This experience leads to a deep dive into the mental game of sports—how the best athletes train their minds to stay present and execute under pressure.

    From Tiger Woods’ legendary focus at the 2019 Masters to the power of "next play" mentality in basketball, this episode breaks down the strategies that help athletes perform at their peak. If you’re a parent or coach looking to help young athletes master the mental side of the game, this one’s for you.

    Other key topics include:

    • The danger of focusing on the outcome instead of the process
    • How to help young athletes build resilience and avoid "choking" under pressure
    • Why flow state is the key to unlocking elite performance
    • The importance of controlling what you can control in the game
    • Why execution—not just talent or desire—determines who wins and who loses

    Coach Parker also shares practical strategies for parents and coaches to reinforce mental toughness, confidence, and decision-making skills in young athletes.

    Timestamps

    0:00 - Sponsor: CP Basketball Academy Summer Camps – Train with the best this summer
    0:29 - Welcome to the Show – The importance of mental performance
    0:58 - The moment I didn’t realize the game ended—being completely locked in
    2:05 - Why great athletes ignore the outcome and focus on execution
    3:20 - Tiger Woods' 2019 Masters: A lesson in staying in the moment
    5:48 - The "flow state" and how top athletes like Kobe & MJ mastered it
    6:22 - The key to staying loose and avoiding the pressure trap
    7:47 - How to train young athletes to focus on the present
    8:25 - Why mental discipline is the foundation of success in sports
    9:34 - Free Resource: Download the Game Day Guide (wecoachparents.com/game-ready)
    10:51 - Controlling the controllables: How to shift an athlete’s focus
    13:37 - The impact of a "next play" mindset on long-term development
    15:35 - How effort-based habits (rebounds, 50-50 balls) translate to winning
    17:23 - Final thoughts: How to train mental resilience in young athletes

    ...and much more.

    BONUS: The FREE Game Day Guide is LIVE https://wecoachparents.com/gameready

    Hear more from Coach Parker on Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@itscoachparker

    Instagram https://www.instagram.com/itscoachparker/

    Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@itscoachparker

    Got questions for us?
    Email us at Carl@drivewaydads.com with your question, and you might hear the answer on one of our next epidsodes!

    THANKS FOR TUNING IN!

    If you enjoyed this week's show, don't forget to hit the "follow" button. Not only is it totally free, it guarantees you never miss out on future episodes.

    Think you know someone who would enjoy this episode? Do them a favor and share it with them.

    Also, please consider leaving us a quick review. It only takes a few seconds, but your review makes all the difference in helping us get the show out to more parents. And who knows...we might even read your review on the show!

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    18 分
  • Winning Beyond the Scoreboard
    2025/03/05

    In this episode, we explore the intricate relationship between sports and academics, diving deep into how the lessons learned on the field can significantly impact our children's personal and professional lives. This episode challenges the conventional wisdom that academic success is paramount, showcasing the vital skills that youth athletics can cultivate, like resilience, teamwork, and leadership. With engaging anecdotes and surprising statistics highlighting the connection between sports participation and career advancement, we aim to shift the narrative around what defines success for young athletes.

    Coach Parker reveals how common pressures to excel in school can detract from essential growth opportunities, pushing us to reconsider our parenting choices. He also challenges the notion that the U.S. prioritizes sports over education, breaking down data on Fortune 500 CEOs, female executives, and global education trends. Tune in for practical takeaways designed to encourage balance and support your child’s passions. Discover how, together, we can nurture the next generation of resilient and well-rounded leaders.

    0:00 - Sponsor: CP Basketball Academy Summer Camps – Train with the best this summer
    0:29 - Welcome to the Show – Why sports & academics aren’t in competition
    1:06 - The Power of Bouncing Back – Handling setbacks like an elite athlete
    2:01 - Beyond the GPA – Success stories of athletes who thrived in life
    3:40 - Life Skills Over Perfection – What really matters for long-term success
    5:37 - Success Leaves Clues – What top athletes are reading & learning
    6:52 - Debunking the “Sports vs. Academics” Myth – CEO stats & leadership skills from sports
    8:00 - Global Education & STEM Comparisons – The real issue behind U.S. education struggles
    9:28 - College Costs & Barriers – How financial systems impact opportunities
    11:06 - Three Key Takeaways for Parents – Raising well-rounded, future leaders

    Resources Mentioned

    • The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People – Stephen Covey
    • Ernst & Young Report – Female executives & sports background

    ...and much more.

    BONUS: The FREE Game Day Guide is LIVE https://wecoachparents.com/gameready

    Hear more from Coach Parker on Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@itscoachparker

    Instagram https://www.instagram.com/itscoachparker/

    Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@itscoachparker

    Got questions for us?
    Email us at Carl@drivewaydads.com with your question, and you might hear the answer on one of our next epidsodes!

    THANKS FOR TUNING IN!

    If you enjoyed this week's show, don't forget to hit the "follow" button. Not only is it totally free, it guarantees you never miss out on future episodes.

    Think you know someone who would enjoy this episode? Do them a favor and share it with them.

    Also, please consider leaving us a quick review. It only takes a few seconds, but your review makes all the difference in helping us get the show out to more parents. And who knows...we might even read your review on the show!

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    12 分
  • Nurturing Young Leaders Through Sports
    2024/11/27

    Discover how to nurture the leaders of tomorrow through the power of sports. As parents, we hold the key to instilling resilience, mental toughness, and sound decision-making in our children, preparing them to confidently face life's challenges. Join me, Carl Parker, on this episode of the Driveway Dad Podcast, as we explore how small actions and consistent engagement in our children's growth can make all the difference. Reflecting on personal experiences and practical insights, we’ll uncover the transformative role sports can play in developing your child’s character and aligning their actions with core values.

    Together, we’ll dive into the essence of teaching discipline and respect, showcasing how these fundamental values can shape a value-driven future. Through relatable anecdotes and valuable lessons, we’ll emphasize the impact of leading by example and the significance of consistent effort—both on the field and in life. This episode offers a call to action for parents and coaches alike, urging us to share and inspire others in our community. Let's support each other in raising young leaders who will navigate the world with confidence and integrity.

    Chapters and Timestamps

    00:00 - Intro: Shaping the Future Through Our Kids
    Coach Parker sets the stage by discussing the role parents play in shaping the future leaders of tomorrow and the importance of intentional parenting.

    01:10 - The Problem with Outsourcing Parenting
    Why relying on schools and external influences to raise kids isn’t enough—and why parents need to take an active role in character development.

    03:15 - The Role of Sports in Building Character
    How sports provide an opportunity to instill core values, discipline, and resilience in young athletes.

    04:29 - Core Skill #1: Resilience and Mental Toughness
    Why bouncing back from adversity is a critical skill and how parents can create teachable moments to foster resilience.

    06:21 - Core Skill #2: Decision-Making Skills
    Teaching kids to make choices based on values rather than emotions or peer pressure—and why this sets them up for success.

    07:56 - Core Skill #3: Core Values and Truth-Telling
    The importance of instilling honesty, even when it’s hard, and how parents can model this behavior.

    11:43 - Core Skill #4: Respect for Others
    From basic manners to respecting different viewpoints, this section explores the lost art of teaching respect.

    15:28 - How Parents Can Lead by Example
    The power of modeling great behavior and creating intentional teachable moments in everyday life.

    17:56 - The Importance of Setting Boundaries
    How saying “no” teaches discipline and helps kids prioritize what really matters.

    18:50 - Building Future Leaders and Entrepreneurs
    How the skills developed through sports and parenting—like discipline and re

    ...and much more.

    BONUS: The FREE Game Day Guide is LIVE https://wecoachparents.com/gameready

    Hear more from Coach Parker on Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@itscoachparker

    Instagram https://www.instagram.com/itscoachparker/

    Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@itscoachparker

    Got questions for us?
    Email us at Carl@drivewaydads.com with your question, and you might hear the answer on one of our next epidsodes!

    THANKS FOR TUNING IN!

    If you enjoyed this week's show, don't forget to hit the "follow" button. Not only is it totally free, it guarantees you never miss out on future episodes.

    Think you know someone who would enjoy this episode? Do them a favor and share it with them.

    Also, please consider leaving us a quick review. It only takes a few seconds, but your review makes all the difference in helping us get the show out to more parents. And who knows...we might even read your review on the show!

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    27 分
  • Empowering Post-Game Conversations: A Parent’s Guide to Supporting Young Athletes
    2024/11/12

    Unlock the secrets to transforming post-game conversations with your young athletes into meaningful opportunities for growth and resilience. Join me, Carl Parker, as I share invaluable insights from my journey as a father to five young athletes and reveal ten empowering phrases that can profoundly impact your child’s sports experience. Discover how words like “I really enjoyed watching you play today” can shift the focus from outcomes to experiences, fostering a healthier sports journey for your kids. Inspired by Timothy Galway's "The Inner Game of Tennis," we explore the crucial role parents play in shaping their child's 'inner game' by emphasizing effort, curiosity, and reflection over scores and stats.

    This episode promises to equip you with practical strategies and heartwarming anecdotes that highlight the joy of being part of your child’s sports adventure. We explore how to nurture determination and create stronger connections by celebrating the simple joys and hard work your kids put into their sports. Whether it’s acknowledging their favorite moment or their determined efforts, these conversations can be a game-changer. Tune in to learn how these vital sports lessons can seamlessly translate into life lessons, enriching your child’s overall development and self-perception.

    ...and much more.

    BONUS: The FREE Game Day Guide is LIVE https://wecoachparents.com/gameready

    Hear more from Coach Parker on Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@itscoachparker

    Instagram https://www.instagram.com/itscoachparker/

    Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@itscoachparker

    Got questions for us?
    Email us at Carl@drivewaydads.com with your question, and you might hear the answer on one of our next epidsodes!

    THANKS FOR TUNING IN!

    If you enjoyed this week's show, don't forget to hit the "follow" button. Not only is it totally free, it guarantees you never miss out on future episodes.

    Think you know someone who would enjoy this episode? Do them a favor and share it with them.

    Also, please consider leaving us a quick review. It only takes a few seconds, but your review makes all the difference in helping us get the show out to more parents. And who knows...we might even read your review on the show!

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    11 分
  • Building Young Athletes with Goal Setting
    2024/10/22

    Unlock the secrets to nurturing young athletes with the power of goal setting on the Driveway Dads Podcast. Join me, Carl Parker, as I delve into my own experiences, like guiding my son Luke through game-time anxiety, and reveal actionable strategies that can transform the athletic journey of your children. From mastering the art of mental conditioning through techniques like third-person self-talk and box breathing to boosting basketball IQ for a competitive edge, this episode promises to equip both parents and coaches with the tools needed to foster talent alongside effort and consistency.

    Explore how setting and achieving small, manageable goals in key areas such as mental conditioning, athletic performance, skill development, and strategic understanding can lay a robust foundation for success. We challenge the misconception of the 10,000-hour rule and emphasize the importance of deliberate practice and dedication. With insights into different types of goals—outcome, performance, and process—this episode offers a roadmap to build champions one goal at a time. By helping athletes set and track their goals, while celebrating victories along the way, parents can play a crucial role in ensuring their child's developmental journey is both fruitful and rewarding.

    ...and much more.

    BONUS: The FREE Game Day Guide is LIVE https://wecoachparents.com/gameready

    Hear more from Coach Parker on Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@itscoachparker

    Instagram https://www.instagram.com/itscoachparker/

    Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@itscoachparker

    Got questions for us?
    Email us at Carl@drivewaydads.com with your question, and you might hear the answer on one of our next epidsodes!

    THANKS FOR TUNING IN!

    If you enjoyed this week's show, don't forget to hit the "follow" button. Not only is it totally free, it guarantees you never miss out on future episodes.

    Think you know someone who would enjoy this episode? Do them a favor and share it with them.

    Also, please consider leaving us a quick review. It only takes a few seconds, but your review makes all the difference in helping us get the show out to more parents. And who knows...we might even read your review on the show!

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    18 分
  • Forging Champions in the Weight Room
    2024/10/15

    Have you ever wondered why some athletes excel not just on the field but in life as well? The secret might lie in a place often overlooked—the weight room. Join me, Coach Carl Parker, as I reveal how strength training transcends mere physical gains to forge mental toughness and leadership skills in young athletes. I share personal anecdotes from my coaching journey, including how an undefeated high school team was built on the backbone of a relentless off-season in the weight room. Discover how kids who push through the burn of their last set are not just developing muscles but crafting resilience and character that last far beyond their athletic careers.

    Beyond the sets and reps, this episode uncovers the critical role of recovery and the safe practices necessary for a successful strength training regimen. It's not about pushing to the point of injury but about finding that perfect balance where true growth happens. With insights on monitoring lift tempos and adjusting weights correctly, I provide practical tips for parents eager to support their young athletes safely. This is your guide to understanding how the discipline and mental fortitude built in the weight room can empower young athletes to handle not just the ups and downs of sports, but the challenges of life itself.

    ...and much more.

    BONUS: The FREE Game Day Guide is LIVE https://wecoachparents.com/gameready

    Hear more from Coach Parker on Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@itscoachparker

    Instagram https://www.instagram.com/itscoachparker/

    Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@itscoachparker

    Got questions for us?
    Email us at Carl@drivewaydads.com with your question, and you might hear the answer on one of our next epidsodes!

    THANKS FOR TUNING IN!

    If you enjoyed this week's show, don't forget to hit the "follow" button. Not only is it totally free, it guarantees you never miss out on future episodes.

    Think you know someone who would enjoy this episode? Do them a favor and share it with them.

    Also, please consider leaving us a quick review. It only takes a few seconds, but your review makes all the difference in helping us get the show out to more parents. And who knows...we might even read your review on the show!

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    10 分
  • Empowering Young Leaders Through Effort and Energy
    2024/10/08

    What if the key to transforming young athletes lies not in talent, but in the simple choices of effort and energy? Join me, Carl Parker, as I share a personal journey coaching my sixth-grade son's basketball team through a challenging tournament. Despite my deep coaching experience, it was a tough lesson learned on the court that the basics often hold the most power. Witness a pivotal moment when a young point guard took charge during halftime, echoing the teachings of effort and energy, and led his team to a striking turnaround. This story is a testament to the profound impact of empowering youth, showing that sometimes stepping back allows for the most significant strides forward.

    In this episode, we explore the broader theme of nurturing champions by creating environments where young athletes can independently tackle challenges. It's about stepping back as parents and coaches to foster problem-solving skills, reminding children of their capabilities. Whether on the court, in school, or in life, effort and energy are choices that shape outcomes. The message underscores the importance of allowing young leaders to emerge, crafting a foundation for independence and resilience. By focusing on these core values, we prepare our young people to become champions well-equipped to face any obstacle that comes their way.

    ...and much more.

    BONUS: The FREE Game Day Guide is LIVE https://wecoachparents.com/gameready

    Hear more from Coach Parker on Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@itscoachparker

    Instagram https://www.instagram.com/itscoachparker/

    Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@itscoachparker

    Got questions for us?
    Email us at Carl@drivewaydads.com with your question, and you might hear the answer on one of our next epidsodes!

    THANKS FOR TUNING IN!

    If you enjoyed this week's show, don't forget to hit the "follow" button. Not only is it totally free, it guarantees you never miss out on future episodes.

    Think you know someone who would enjoy this episode? Do them a favor and share it with them.

    Also, please consider leaving us a quick review. It only takes a few seconds, but your review makes all the difference in helping us get the show out to more parents. And who knows...we might even read your review on the show!

    続きを読む 一部表示
    9 分