Heaven or Heisman

Today we have special guest Aaron Rose as we dive into a game-changing book: The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer. The conversation explores why hurry is the enemy of love, peace, and spiritual growth—and how it’s quietly shaping our kids, our parenting, and our sports culture.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 coexistHow rushing creates anxiety in kids (and parents)Practical ways to embrace a slower schedule in youth sportsThe freedom of redefining commitment to a teamHow to use car rides and downtime for deeper connection

In this episode of Heaven or Heisman, we sit down with our friend Kyle Porter from Normal Sport for a deep conversation that blends golf, faith, and the search for meaning. Together with Jean and the team, Kyle unpacks Scotty Scheffler’s surprising press conference comments on fulfillment, Ecclesiastes, and what it truly means to chase success.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.

Today we dive headfirst into the cultural shift in youth sports—how money, pressure, and year-round specialization are reshaping the game for kids and families alike. We reflect on what sports used to be, where they’re headed, and the ripple effects on motivation, structure, access, family roles, and kids’ identities. From NIL million-dollar deals to the quiet erosion of “just playing for fun,” we share our honest thoughts, personal experiences, and biblical insights on how parents can navigate this new landscape without losing sight of what matters most.Key TakeawaysYouth 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.

In this lighthearted and honest episode, Luke Baker and Jean Anderson share the chaos, comedy, and camaraderie that comes with being a youth sports parent. From the infamous shoe crisis to the magic of high fives, they unpack seven laugh-out-loud relatable realities only parents on the sidelines truly understand. Whether you're a veteran coach, a snack mom, or a barefoot-kid defender, this episode is a fun tribute to all the unglamorous—and unforgettable—moments that make up the youth sports experience.

In this powerful episode, Keegan Mueller — a former D1 wrestler, coach, and real estate leader — shares how growing up on the wrestling mat shaped his toughness, grit, and identity. But it wasn’t until a life-threatening fall in front of his son that Keegan learned what real strength and stillness look like.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.

In this heartfelt and practical episode, Jean and the team explore one of the most important questions facing kids, parents, and coaches in youth sports today: Are we chasing performance or living from purpose? Drawing from a powerful Kobe Bryant quote and personal stories—including one deeply moving tribute to John's late mother—this conversation challenges the cultural obsession with measuring worth through wins, stats, and scores. Instead, listeners are invited to discover the freeing and lasting foundation of purpose: honoring God in all things.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.

Have you ever felt the pressure to buy your kid the best gear for youth sports? In today’s Gearhead episode, we chat about how parents don’t need to stress over purchasing the most expensive equipment for their children. We kick things off with a funny coaching story, followed by a discussion on how flashy, high-priced gear doesn’t guarantee success on the field. From expensive baseball bats to pricey soccer balls, we dive into why your kid’s skills matter more than the gear they use.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.

Have you ever wondered how to help your child become a better teammate? In today’s episode, we dive into the essential character traits that make a great team player, from adaptability to the ability to support struggling teammates. We also explore different teammate personalities you’ll encounter, like the fiery competitor or the quiet leader, and how to navigate those dynamics. Whether your child is the star player or learning their role on the team, we’ll share practical tips on how to foster good teamwork both on and off the field.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!

In this episode, Rob Hayes joins us for a conversation that explores the intersection of faith, family, and elite athletics. Rob, a former competitive golfer and father of seven, shares his journey of raising children in a sports-driven world while keeping family values front and center. From navigating the pressures of youth sports to making intentional family memories, Rob offers insight into fostering healthy relationships, prioritizing faith, and helping kids thrive both on and off the field.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.

In this episode of How Can I Help My Child Love God Through Sports, we dive into how we, as dads, can help our kids honor God through their athletic experiences. It's easy to get caught up in the pressure of performance, but we believe there’s so much more to sports than just winning or losing. We share stories and practical tips on how to focus on character-building aspects like love, compassion, hard work, and integrity, all while supporting our kids' spiritual growth.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.

Want to know what happens when you mix sports, faith, and family?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!

Want to help your child love sports more, but not sure where to start? In this episode of Heaven or Heisman, we dive into how to foster a true love for sports without pushing them too hard. It's all about creating the right environment, sharing your own enthusiasm, and making sports fun and natural for your kids.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!

Join Kyle Porter, the founder of Normal Sport, for insightful discussions on the world of sports and family life. A former sports writer turned entrepreneur, Kyle shares his unique perspective on balancing athletic passion with family values. As a father of four and a former college athlete, he’s passionate about creating healthier, more balanced ways for families to engage with youth sports. Through honest conversations, Kyle dives into the pressures of modern sports culture, providing practical advice for parents who want to encourage their children without sacrificing family time or values. Expect guest appearances, personal anecdotes, and a thoughtful approach to the challenges of raising kids in today’s competitive environment.

Want to know what it takes to raise a successful athlete without burning them out? In Heaven or Heisman, we explore the balance between hard work, passion, and a healthy approach to sports. Hosted by parents and coaches with real-life experiences, we dive into how to help your child thrive in youth sports, all while keeping the joy alive.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.

Struggling to get your child to practice more? You’re not alone! In this episode of Heaven or Heisman, we dive into the best ways to help your kids build their skills, while still keeping the fun alive. We discuss the balance between structured practice and creative play, and how both can fuel your child's growth in sports.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!

Spring sports are here, and we’re gearing up for an exciting season! Whether we’re coaching or cheering from the sidelines, we know how precious this time is with our kids. As the games begin, we want to share some thoughts on how we can make the most of this season. From practical advice for parents to inspiring messages for players, we dive into the key things we can do to support our kids both on and off the field. Tune in for tips on how to enjoy the games, set a great example, and create memories that will last a lifetime. We’re excited for the season and hope this episode helps you make the most of every moment with your young athlete!

Wondering how to help your child develop confidence in sports (and life)? In this episode of Heaven or Heisman, we dive into practical ways to instill confidence in your kids—from tackling their first sports season to encouraging them through failure. We share personal stories, lessons learned, and scriptural wisdom to help you support your child’s growth, build their bravery, and nurture their resilience.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!...

Welcome back to Heaven or Heisman! In this episode, we’re diving into some scary stats about youth sports and the pressure on kids and parents alike. With over 40 million kids playing youth sports in America, it’s staggering that 70% will drop out before the age of 13, often due to the overwhelming emphasis on winning over fun. As parents, we’re seeing it more and more—pressure to succeed can make sports feel like a high-stakes game, stripping away the joy and leaving kids frustrated.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!

Welcome to Heaven or Heisman! We’re Luke and Jean, and we’re here to help Christian parents navigate the chaos of youth sports while keeping their focus on what really matters—faith and family. Youth sports today are out of control, with parents either overwhelmed or trying to keep their sanity in a world where sports can feel like everything. If you’re raising a godly child who loves sports, we’re here to help you keep heaven, not the Heisman, as your main goal.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!