Courtside Forever

My Indiana Pacers are in the NBA Finals for the first time in 25 years! The night they clinched the Eastern Conference Finals Championship over the New York Knicks, our family celebrated and I told my girls to cherish this moment because you never know if or when it will happen again.  I’m big on living in the moment. As a parent, you kinda have to be. However, at times, it’s difficult to appreciate the moments you’re in as there’s always something else to look forward to. Sometimes, it’s the end of the school year, and sometimes, it’s the end of the night, but one thing is clear: over and over, you’ll find people who raised kids decades ago, long for the days when their kids were little.  Last year, I wrote a piece called When You’re In The Golden Days about appreciating this season of life. My dogs are getting older, as are my girls, and there’s something special about sitting in a season that you know will be the best days of your life. Cheers! And, of course, Go Pacers!

In this episode of Courtside Forever, Rae and Si join me as I take a moment to honor two names that should be etched into the heart of every Indiana Pacers fan: Slick and Nancy Leonard. This episode isn't just for Pacers fans, it's for everyone.  If you're a Pacers fan, you may know Slick’s legendary “Boom Baby!” call, or the unforgettable players he coached in the ABA days—but behind every big moment in Pacers history is a deeper story of grit, love, and community. In 1977, with the franchise on the verge of collapse, the Leonards led a telethon that didn’t just sell season tickets—it saved professional basketball in Indiana. One phone call at a time. We walk through what happened after that emotional night, from Slick’s transition to the broadcast booth to Nancy’s enduring presence courtside—cheering for Reggie, Paul George, Tyrese, and now Caitlin Clark. I talk about the Simons' purchase of the team, the $2.9 billion valuation today, and how the Noblesville Boom G-League rebrand in 2025 pays tribute to the couple that gave everything for this team. This 2024-25 Pacers squad deserves their praise—Haliburton’s vision, Siakam’s playstyle, Turner's versatility, Nembhard’s defense, and Nesmith’s hustle have the Fieldhouse rocking. But every time I watch this team, I find myself thinking about Nancy’s perseverance and Slick’s passion and how one couple saved a team and inspired a city. If you love a good story of perseverance, or especially if you love Indiana Pacers basketball like us, this episode is for you. Watch the documentary, Slick, Nancy, and The Telethon on Disney+ 

In this episode of Courtside Forever, I sit down with Casey Lewis—soccer mom, former player, coach, team manager, and founder of Soccer Unleashed—for a conversation every parent in youth sports needs to hear. We dive into the big question: How do you know when your kid is truly ready for travel or competitive soccer? Casey shares what to look for in terms of interest, skill, and commitment—and how to evaluate if your family is ready for the time and financial investment that comes with it. We also talk about: How to make competitive soccer more affordable (yes, she’s got serious points-hacking advice!) Why comparing your kid’s journey to others can backfire The growing intensity in youth sports and what it’s doing to kids How to keep soccer fun—even at a high level And the heart behind Soccer Unleashed, her platform helping players of all levels find opportunities Casey’s insight as a mom of three soccer-playing kids, plus her experience across every level of the game, makes this a must-listen for any parent trying to navigate youth sports with intention. Whether your kid just picked up a ball or is eyeing the college level—this one’s for you. Visit Soccer Unleashed: https://www.soccerunleashed.com/ Follow Soccer Unleashed on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soccer_opportunities_unleashed/  

Reggie Miller made me a believer in 8.9 seconds. One iconic moment in Madison Square Garden turned me into a lifelong Indiana Pacers fan. But nearly 30 years later, it wasn’t a buzzer-beater that brought me the most joy—it was watching my daughter fall in love with the same game, in her own unexpected way. In this episode, I share the full-circle story of how basketball became a bridge between generations. From my childhood admiration of Reggie to Rae’s obsession with Victor Oladipo (complete with a stuffed doll and fan art), and now her newfound love for Myles Turner, Tyrese Haliburton and Coach Jenny, this episode is packed with the memories, milestones, and magic moments that make sports so much more than a game. I talk NBA League Pass rituals, Rae’s hilarious take on “private shots,” our family’s first trip to Indianapolis, and the Sunday morning when she surprised us all by asking to play basketball. Now, I’m not just her dad—I’m her coach. Whether you're a parent, a sports fan, or someone who knows the joy of sharing your passions with your kids, this one’s for you. It’s a love letter to the Pacers, to fatherhood, and to the slow, beautiful way fandom is passed down—not forced, but found. Because sometimes the best stories aren’t just about who wins the game… but who’s sitting next to you while you watch it. Go Pacers! Read the story here: https://ryanrucker.com/writing/the-year-my-daughter-fell-in-love-with-basketball

Let’s be real—weekends kind of suck sometimes. You work all week, juggle homework, activities, and dinner disasters, and just when you think you’ve earned a break, the Saturday baseball tournament and Sunday birthday party hit. In this episode, I’m diving into the real reason parents feel like they're running a never-ending marathon—and how we can finally start reclaiming our weekends. I’ll walk you through five practical shifts you can make starting this Saturday: using your PTO without guilt (yes, even if you don’t have big vacation plans), saying no to things you don’t have the bandwidth for, letting yourself be a little "lazy" without the guilt trip, outsourcing tasks like grocery shopping, and even—hear me out—scheduling rest. There are no trophies for "Best Burnout." It's time to slow down, protect your peace, and build weekends that actually fill your tank instead of draining it. Society may not be built for parents yet, but inside your four walls? You get to set the rules. If you’re tired of hitting Monday already exhausted, this episode is your permission slip to do weekends differently. From the article Parents — Reclaim Your Weekend. Here’s How.

On this episode of Courtside Forever, I sat down with Jen Cohen Crompton—a Philly mom, entrepreneur, fitness coach, and host of the Say It In Sports podcast. Jen started her show to amplify stories in youth and women’s sports, and we dove into why that mission matters more than ever. From committing to fitness as a way to honor her dad to crossing the finish line of an Ironman, Jen’s journey is all about resilience, community, and purpose. We talked about how the pandemic reminded us of the importance of movement, how women fans often connect through the stories behind the game, and why small, consistent changes can lead to big life shifts. Jen’s also an author—her children’s book encourages kids to get moving and feel included, and she’s a big believer that modeling healthy habits starts at home. We also talked about parenting in sports: the pressure to win, the role of coaches, and why being a good teammate is just as important as scoring points. Whether you're a parent on the sidelines, a fan in the stands, or someone just trying to move more and live better, Jen’s story is a reminder that sports can teach us way more than just how to play the game—they can teach us how to show up for each other. Jen's podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/say-it-in-sports/id1794616974 Jen's children's book: https://a.co/d/5X4ZCPP Jen's 90 Day Challenge: https://a.co/d/hrJl4MQ  

In this episode, I sit down with Tanya Hayles—a community builder, digital strategist, and former Digital Strategy and Development Manager for Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment—for a conversation that goes way beyond the scoreboard. We talk about what it really takes to build community through sports, the behind-the-scenes work that often goes unnoticed, and the emotional toll of trades—not just on the players, but their families too. Tanya also shares the unique challenges Black mothers face, the rising costs of youth sports, and what it means to build a legacy that lasts. If you’ve ever been part of a team, raised a kid in sports, or just love the game, this one’s for you. In this episode, we get into: Why community is everything—on and off the court The sacrifices parents make for their kids’ sports dreams The reality of player trades and how they impact families The importance of representation in both media and motherhood What it looks like to build a legacy through intentional work This one’s honest, reflective, and full of real talk. I’m grateful for Tanya’s voice in this space—and I hope it encourages you to look at sports, parenting, and purpose a little differently. Visit Black Moms Connection: https://www.blackmomsconnection.com/ Watch Tanya's TEDx Talk: https://youtu.be/IAxjdSDXvCc?si=sKF83JDoAd8rzpLb  

In today's episode of Courtside Forever, I unpack what it really means to be a "girl dad" beyond the hashtags and the merchandise. Sparked by the immense popularity of the #girldad movement after the tragic loss of Kobe and Gianna Bryant, I'm taking a hard look at whether we're truly living up to this title. I open up about my own experience as a father to two wonderful daughters. When I first heard the news of each daughter's upcoming arrival, I faced a mix of joy and the typical cliché reactions from friends and family. But beyond the personal celebrations and challenges, I delve into how society at large treats our daughters and the disparities they face, such as the employment challenges heightened by the pandemic, the erosion of reproductive rights, and the persistence of gender-based violence. This episode critically examines how the concept of being a "girl dad" has been commercialized while many of the systemic issues that disadvantage women remain unaddressed. I challenge fellow dads to look beyond the surface—beyond wearing a themed sweatshirt or posting a social media update. Through personal reflections and insights from writers like Adam Bulger, who outlines what daughters need to hear from their fathers, I share practical and impactful ways to truly empower and uplift our daughters. It’s about more than just compliments; it’s about engaging in the tough conversations, dismantling outdated stereotypes, and advocating for their rights and opportunities. Join me as I call on all dads to actively contribute to a world where our daughters are not only safe but are valued and respected as equals. Being a "girl dad" should be a commitment to lifelong advocacy and action, ensuring our daughters can thrive in a world that truly cherishes them. This isn’t just about being proud fathers—it’s about being active allies. You can find the article this podcast is based on here: https://ryanrucker.com/writing/dont-tell-me-youre-a-girl-dad-show-me

Happy April Fool’s Day! Our family loves to play practical jokes, so I figured today would be a great time to invite my girls on to the podcast to listen to me record this episode. In 1997, the New York Knicks pulled off one of my favorite pranks of all time, convincing their audience the team had signed legendary Knicks player Walt “Clyde” Frazier to a 10-day contract. However, the prank was my second favorite of the day. Later that night, my mom and I pulled off my all-time favorite prank on my unsuspecting Grandparents. It was a story I wrote two years ago, but for this episode, I tell it again, this time with my daughters by my side.  So enjoy this episode of Courtside Forever! If the audio is a little off, that’s because I used one microphone and my girls are obviously not familiar with them. But most importantly, we had a great time recording so I hope you enjoy.

Becoming a new dad is one of the most exciting, terrifying, exhausting, and meaningful moments of your life. But let’s be honest—it’s also hard. The expectations, the pressure, the shift in your identity… it all hits differently when you’re holding your newborn and thinking, “I’ve gotta raise this tiny human?” In this milestone 20th episode of Courtside Forever, we’re flipping the script on the outdated “just figure it out” mentality. I’m giving you 20 real, practical pieces of advice for new dads—tips that are honest, relatable, and designed to help you show up as the dad your kid needs and the partner your family deserves. We cover everything from managing sleep schedules and emotional support, to checking your benefits and keeping your identity intact. You’ll learn why it’s okay to cry, how to bond at your own pace, the importance of asking questions, and why every new dad needs a “Treat Yo’ Self” moment. Whether you're taking the night shift or learning how to swaddle, this episode is a reminder that perfection isn’t required—presence is. And yes, I even squeeze in a few Parks and Rec references for good measure. So to the new dads out there, or anyone supporting one—this episode is for you. Because, as parents, we’ve got the best seats in the house. Let’s enjoy them.

LeBron James recently had a heated exchange with ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith, telling him to “keep my son out of this.” The moment quickly went viral, sparking renewed debate about whether Bronny James deserved to be drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers or if he is simply benefiting from his father’s influence. But this conversation goes beyond basketball—it’s about nepotism, parental support, and what it really means to help the next generation succeed. In this episode of Courtside Forever, we break down the controversy and ask the tough questions. If you had the power to open doors for your child, would you? Where is the line between providing support and giving unfair advantages? Why does nepotism seem to be accepted in industries like Hollywood, politics, and business but scrutinized in professional sports? What you can expect in this episode: A deep dive into the differences between nepotism and legitimate opportunity and why people react differently depending on the industry. An honest look at Bronny James' journey to the NBA—has he truly earned his spot, or is he riding his father’s legacy? The impact of generational success, from family businesses to sports dynasties, and why mentorship and exposure often lead to better outcomes. A conversation about fatherhood, legacy, and the responsibilities of parents who have the power to shape their children’s futures. Some critics believe Bronny James is only in the NBA because of his last name. Others see it as a historic moment—an all-time great paving the way for his son. No matter which side you’re on, this is a discussion worth having. Join me in this conversation and decide for yourself. Read my article titled "You Call It Nepotism. I Call It Fatherhood."

On this episode of Courtside Forever, we’re talking about joy—the kind of joy that shouldn’t be controversial but somehow still is. I recently watched With Love, Meghan, the new Netflix show featuring Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, as she hosts friends, cooks, and gardens in Montecito. It’s the kind of peaceful, feel-good lifestyle show we’ve seen for years with Martha Stewart, Rachael Ray, and Joanna Gaines. And yet, the backlash Meghan has received? It’s different. It’s louder. And let’s be honest—it’s rooted in something deeper. This episode dives into why the internet seems to hate joy, how Black women—especially Black moms—are scrutinized for simply existing in peace, and why we struggle to let people enjoy life without attaching some grander meaning to it. We’ll talk about the viral tweet from a woman who dared to enjoy morning coffee with her husband in their garden—and the absurd backlash that followed. We’ll explore the internet’s pattern of building people up just to tear them down, from everyday folks like Daisey and Michael the Librarian to someone as high-profile as Meghan Markle. And we’ll ask the real question: Why do people love wealth and celebrity culture until the person enjoying it is a Black woman? But most importantly, this episode is about reclaiming joy. Whether it's making ice cream, watching a cozy cooking show, or tending to an arugula garden, we all deserve simple pleasures—without the internet ruining them. So, what’s something small and joyful in your life that you refuse to let the internet take from you? Let’s talk about it.

Basketball has always been bigger than the game, and few people embody that more than Jerica Williams. From a stellar career in high school with multiple championships to earning a full ride at UCLA, her story is already the stuff of legends. But she didn’t stop there. Last season, Jerica made history as the only active female coach in Division I Men’s College Basketball, proving once again that she’s built different. Beyond the court, she’s a mentor, a leader, and a powerhouse in storytelling. She’s the founder of HER: Power Productions, a platform dedicated to amplifying the voices of young women, and trust me—her work is next level. If you haven’t checked out her videos yet, do yourself a favor. The storytelling? Top-tier. The production quality? Insane. In this episode, we get into it all—her love for the game, what makes a great coach, and why positive coaching matters now more than ever. We also talk about motherhood and ambition, including the moment she walked across the stage at San Diego State with her newborn son in her arms. And of course, I had to ask about the advice she has for parents navigating their kids' athletic goals. Jerica’s journey is all about breaking barriers, leading with authenticity, and unlocking greatness—not just in herself, but in everyone around her. Whether you’re a parent, a coach, or just love a good hoop story, you don’t want to miss this one. Listen now and let’s get Courtside Forever—because as parents, we’ve got the best seats in the house - let's enjoy them. Visit https://www.herpower.life to learn about Jerica's work. https://www.courtsideforever.com

"Say goodbye to the next 18 years of your life!" That was one of the first things someone said to me when I told them my wife and I were expecting our first child. And while I laughed it off, the more I thought about it, the more I realized how messed up that mindset is. Because here’s the truth—becoming a dad will absolutely change your life. But it won’t ruin it. If anything, it’ll make your life more meaningful, more exciting, and more fulfilling than you ever thought possible. I’ve always been someone with passions. I love basketball, I love writing, I love creating. And when my first daughter was born, I started hearing all the warnings: "You won’t have time for that anymore." "Your hobbies are gonna take a backseat." "You better get your fun in now before the baby comes." But here I am, years later, still doing the things I love—just differently. I learned how to adapt my hobbies instead of abandoning them, how to communicate better with my wife, and how to reject the idea that being a dad means losing myself. And that’s what we’re talking about in today’s episode of Courtside Forever. Here’s what I’m diving into: ✔️ The "Negative Ned" mentality and why so many men think fatherhood is the end of their personal freedom ✔️ How I found ways to keep my passions alive while being an engaged, present dad ✔️ The power of communication and planning (aka, how not to be an idiot) ✔️ Why resentment happens when dads don’t carve out time for themselves—and how to avoid it ✔️ Actionable steps you can take to balance fatherhood and self-care Fatherhood isn’t about giving up who you are—it’s about evolving into the best version of yourself. Yeah, my life looks different now. I don’t have endless free time. I don’t spend entire weekends on the couch playing 2K. But you know what? I wouldn’t trade what I have now for anything. So if you’re a new dad, an expecting dad, or even just a guy wondering if he’ll ever get to do the things he loves again—this episode is for you. Let’s talk about it—because as parents, we’ve got the best seats in the house - let's enjoy them. www.courtsideforever.com www.ryanrucker.com

In this episode of Courtside Forever, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Lindsey Konchar, a licensed mental health professional, certified financial coach, and author of I Got 99 Coping Skills and Being a B**** Ain’t One. Lindsey specializes in financial therapy and helps her clients navigate their money challenges without shame. As a mom of two and host of the Financial Self Care podcast, she brings a wealth of experience—both personal and professional—to our conversation. We dive into some really important topics like the link between mental health and finances, why so many parents struggle with shame when it comes to getting their financial lives back on track, and how emotional intelligence can play a big role in financial success. Lindsey shares some valuable advice on how parents can teach their kids about money, while also being more present in their lives, even when the daily grind can feel overwhelming. I also ask Lindsey about her own journey, including her battle with postpartum mental illness and the steps she took to prioritize her well-being. Plus, we talk about how couples can avoid fighting over money and—just for fun—how Lindsey would advise Joey Tribbiani from Friends on his disastrous financial decisions. If you’re looking for actionable tips to improve both your financial and emotional well-being, this episode is for you! Visit Lindsey at https://financialselfcareblog.com/ https://www.courtsideforever.com  

In this episode of Courtside Forever, I take you through the monumental impact of Title IX, the groundbreaking 1972 law that fundamentally transformed the landscape of education and athletics in the United States. This episode explores how Title IX not only leveled the playing field for women in sports but also revolutionized access to higher education and professional opportunities for countless women. Key Highlights: Title IX’s Legacy in Academia: Delve into the dramatic shift that Title IX catalyzed in the academic world, from increased female enrollment to more diverse faculty representation in colleges and universities. We'll look at how these changes have fostered a culture of equality and excellence in education that continues to evolve today. Protecting Students: Understand the critical role Title IX has played in protecting students from sexual harassment and assault. I discuss significant legal battles that have strengthened these protections and the ongoing efforts needed to maintain safe educational environments for all students. Empowering Female Athletes: Celebrate the significant victories for women’s sports post-Title IX, detailing the rise in female participation from high school to professional leagues. We'll acknowledge the heroes and milestones that have marked the journey of women in sports and the barriers they continue to break. As a girls' basketball coach and a dad, I share personal stories and reflections on how Title IX has influenced the sports community and why it remains essential in promoting gender equity. This episode not only honors the legacy of Title IX but also emphasizes the collective responsibility we hold to support and advance the gains made for women’s education and athletics. We’ll also discuss the potential threats to Title IX in the current political climate and what that could mean for future generations. It’s crucial that we understand the implications of any changes and how they could affect our daughters' rights and opportunities. Thank you for joining me for another episode of Courtside Forever, where as parents, we've got the best seats in the house. Let’s celebrate these moments and continue to fight for the rights and opportunities our girls deserve, ensuring that the legacy of Title IX endures for generations to come. www.courtsideforever.com

In this episode of Courtside Forever, I dive deep into the delicious world of ice cream—a journey that's deeply personal and steeped in history. I start by sharing how my own path as an ice cream maker was ignited by family bonds and the local flavors of upstate New York, highlighting the personal connections and community spirit that inspire my craft. The star of this episode is Augustus Jackson, an extraordinary figure known as "The Father of Ice Cream." Jackson's pioneering work in the 19th century didn't just revolutionize how ice cream was made but also reshaped its cultural footprint across Philadelphia and beyond. Born during a time when the scars of slavery were still fresh, Jackson's legacy extends far beyond his culinary innovations, weaving into the very fabric of community and entrepreneurship. I explore Jackson's formative years in the White House kitchens, his impactful return to Philadelphia, and his groundbreaking introduction of eggless recipes that helped forge a new business model supporting other Black entrepreneurs. Despite his profound influence, Jackson's narrative remains largely hidden in the shadows of history—a story I'm passionate about bringing to light and celebrating. This episode isn't just about tracing the origins of a beloved dessert; it's a recognition and appreciation of the broader contributions of Black Americans throughout history. Join me as I uncover why stories like Jackson's are crucial for both understanding our past and inspiring future generations. Tune in to see how every scoop of ice cream is filled with stories of innovation, resilience, and community—lessons as enduring and rich as the flavors themselves. Remember, as parents and community members, we've got the best seats in the house. Let's make the most of them, one scoop at a time.

Our kids are waiting for us to build them a better world. Can we? This is a question I asked on July 17, 2024, following the assassination attempt on then-candidate and current President Trump. As millennial parents, we are raising kids during one unprecedented event after another. I don't know about you, but I am tired, and after the past week, I'm even more tired.  This isn't a political podcast, though I am a political person, so while there is no apology coming, this is a heads up, and if you choose to listen, you'll likely find that I'm pretty measured in my feelings. I want Courtside Forever to be for all parents, but as a dad who preaches empathy, honesty, authenticity, and community, the foundation of my work is in stark contrast to the bullying behavior that's become more and more prevalent in the current administration. My philosophy is that everyone is welcome, but not everything is tolerated.  On today's podcast, I read my July 17, 2024, piece titled Parenting in Unprecedented Times. It was originally published in the A Parent Is Born publication on Medium. In it, I make my case as to why parents need to lean into being fully present for our families like never before.  The pace of current events is designed to be fast and confusing and leave the general public feeling so overwhelmed that we have nothing but apathy to give. But as I held my baby girls for the first time, I promised to do my best to build a world they could be proud of, and as long as I’ve got breath in my body, I’m going to try. www.courtsideforever.com

On this episode of Courtside Forever, I am thrilled to feature Anthony Franzese, a multifaceted businessman and father, who also hosts the Successful Working Parents podcast. Today, Anthony shares the journey and inspiration behind his podcast, which has resonated with many parents by addressing the complexities of juggling parenthood and professional life. During our conversation, Anthony dives into themes common among his guests, such as work-life balance and overcoming challenges like self-doubt and unemployment. He reveals valuable advice he’s received and implemented himself, helping our understanding of what it takes to succeed as a working parent. We also explore Anthony’s insights on mental health from his tenure at Headspace and his current role at WellRight, where he contributes to enhancing corporate wellness programs. Plus, Anthony discusses his love for movies, sharing his picks for underrated films and his favorite fictional movie dads.  Subscribe to Successful Working Parents. www.courtsideforever.com  

Welcome to a special Martin Luther King Jr. Day episode of Courtside Forever. Today, I'm giving a speech at a Martin Luther King Jr. Day event, and I wanted to bring my speech to the podcast.  This bonus episode is inspired by my personal visits to significant sites in Atlanta—Dr. King's birthplace, his home church at Ebenezer Baptist, and the King Center, which deeply moved me and connected me to the reality of his life and mission. I’ll also dive into the symbolism captured in my children's book, where a father and daughter enjoy ice cream at the Lincoln Memorial, the site of Dr. King’s iconic “I Have a Dream” speech. This image is a reminder of the everyday moments that can hold profound historical reflections. In this episode, I reflect on Dr. King not just as a leader of civil rights but as a man who was a son, a husband, a father, and a voice of justice whose teachings are still relevant. As I look at the steps we've taken towards equality and the steps we still need to take, I’m reminded of the power of hope and the importance of continuing the work he started. Join me as we explore how Dr. King’s message of love, justice, and unity challenges us all to live better and dream bigger. Let’s honor his memory by committing to be part of the ongoing journey towards a more equitable world. www.courtsideforever.com