In this episode of the Struggle Bubble, Chad and Craig discuss their summer experiences, including a memorable family vacation in Hawaii that involved a tsunami warning. They share insights on the challenges of parenting, coaching youth sports, and the importance of allowing children to pursue their passions. The conversation also touches on the culture of youth sports, the role of parents, and the evolving landscape of youth athletics, including discussions around NIL (Name, Image, Likeness)...
In this episode of the Struggle Bubble, Chad Kutting and Craig Surgey welcome Ricky Clarke, former head coach with the Houston Dash of the NWSL, who has extensive experience across various levels of the game of soccer. The conversation delves into Ricky's coaching journey, the importance of building a network, effective communication strategies in youth soccer, and the role of parents in player development. They discuss the challenges of coaching in the pros, adapting coaching styles for diff...
In this episode, Chad and Craig welcome listeners back to Season Two of The Struggle Bubble, discussing their experiences in coaching youth sports, particularly soccer and baseball. They delve into the psychological aspects of player development, the importance of communication between coaches and players, and the need for a supportive community in youth sports. The conversation also touches on the evolution of coaching philosophies and introduces their new venture, Gaimplan, aimed at helping...
In this season finale of the Struggle Bubble, hosts Chad Kutting and Craig Surgey reflect on their journey through coaching, parenting, and personal growth. They discuss the challenges of balancing family life with coaching responsibilities, the transition from youth to high school soccer, and the importance of injury prevention in sports. The conversation also touches on the evolution of parenting, the significance of taking chances, and the lessons learned from their guests throughout the s...
This week on The Struggle Bubble, we sit down with licensed marriage and family therapist Genna Lyons, who brings over 20 years of experience working with parents, kids, and couples. Genna dives deep into the impact of technology and social media on today’s youth, the challenges of maintaining genuine connections, and the unique struggles of parenting in a post-pandemic world. She shares valuable insights on managing anxiety, setting healthy boundaries with screen time, and teaching kids resi...
in this episode of The Struggle Bubble, we welcome Callie Stefani, Senior Director at AMD, and wife of our previous guest, Austin Stefani. Callie shares her unique perspective on managing a high-powered career in tech, balancing family life, and building a supportive community. Together, we dive into the reality of juggling demanding careers as a couple, the concept of “glass vs. rubber balls” in prioritizing responsibilities, and how Callie and Austin lean on their “village” to stay grounded...
In this episode of The Struggle Bubble, we’re joined by Jackie Pimentel, Director of Ads Product Marketing at Meta, to talk about balancing a high-pressure career, parenting, and life’s curveballs. Jackie shares her experience navigating family life, managing work trips, and the importance of community and support systems. Whether it's stepping in to coach her daughter's soccer team or coordinating last-minute trips with her husband, Jackie offers a candid and relatable perspective on how to ...
Chad and Craig celebrate their 25th episode reflecting on the contributions of past guests and the importance of fun in youth sports. They discuss the current MLB playoffs, the challenges of coaching in the state cup, and the development of youth soccer amidst changing age regulations. The conversation also touches on the administrative challenges faced by community-based sports leagues, emphasizing the need for better communication and transparency. In this episode, Chad and Craig discuss va...
In this episode of The Struggle Bubble, we’re joined by Ricky Lewis, former MLS player, and Leslie Osborne, former US Women’s National Team and NWSL star. Together, they take us through their incredible journey—from life on the soccer field to raising families and creating a lasting impact with the launch of Bay FC, the Bay Area’s newest women’s pro soccer team. Ricky and Leslie share candid insights on navigating the chaos of parenting while managing the demands of youth sports, building co...
In this episode of the Struggle Bubble, Chad Kutting and Craig Surgey sit down with Kelly Cheeseman, COO and Alternate governor of the LA Kings and AEG Sports. They discuss Kelly's extensive career in sports management, the evolution of fan communication, the pressures of remote work, and the importance of balancing family life with a demanding career. Kelly shares insights on navigating the highs and lows of sports performance, the impact of social media on narratives, and the growing trend ...
In this episode of the Struggle Bubble, hosts Chad Kutting and Craig Surgey welcome Nate Vandegrift, who shares his journey from a passionate young athlete to a dedicated father and professional. Nate discusses the challenges he faced in sports, the consequences of his actions during high school, and his struggles with alcohol. He reflects on the journey to parenthood through in vitro fertilization and the lessons learned from health challenges, including a heart attack at a young age. The co...
In this conversation, Chad and Craig Surgey welcome Lisa Mims, an executive coach, to discuss the intricacies of leadership, work-life balance, and personal growth. Lisa shares her insights on how coaching can help leaders navigate their professional and personal lives, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection, setting boundaries, and understanding one's values. The discussion also touches on the evolution of leadership styles, the impact of COVID-19 on work culture, and the significance...
In this episode, Chad and Craig discuss different aspects of coaching youth sports, including the integration of AI in coaching, the importance of authentic communication, and the dynamics of parent involvement during games. They explore the role of coaches in player development, the challenges of field space, and the significance of mentorship in youth sports. The conversation also touches on recent game experiences and the progress of their teams, while looking forward to upcoming events an...
In this episode, Chad and Craig welcome Mike Donohue, Senior Vice President of Global Sales at GupShop, who shares his journey from competitive rowing to sailing and his experiences on the men's national rowing team. Mike discusses the importance of trying new things, the challenges of competitive sports, and the balance between pursuing athletic passions and career aspirations. He emphasizes the value of mentorship, hard work, and the mindset needed to succeed in both sports and professional...
In this episode, Chad and Craig have a lighthearted and humorous conversation about various topics, including gratitude, their podcast journey, sports, and their children's activities. They express their appreciation for the support they have received and discuss upcoming episodes and sponsors. Support the show Help support our podcast by subscribing on YouTube, Apple Music, and Spotify. Keep up to date with all things Struggle Bubble on our Instagram Page @thestrugglebubblepod
In this exciting episode of The Struggle Bubble, Chad and Craig sit down with special guest Rob Ludeman to take a deep dive into the world of youth sports and beyond. From early development to high school competition, they break down how sports evolve and the key role they play in shaping skills, self-motivation, and character. The trio explores hot topics like the impact of private coaching, the rise of club sports, and why unstructured play is more important than we think. Plus, they tackle...
In this episode of The Struggle Bubble, Chad and Craig dive into the whirlwind of youth soccer tournaments, sharing their recent experiences from the sidelines. They explore the highs and lows of juggling multiple games, the emotional rollercoaster of supporting their kids, and the delicate art of managing expectations—both theirs and their children’s. Beyond the action on the field, they discuss the true value of travel tournaments, not just for player development, but for fostering resilien...
Childhood friends Ben and Julia Kowalczyk join the Chad and Craig on this week's episode. The conversation details Ben and Julia's struggle with their long-distance relationship and the challenges they faced. They talk about the importance of communication and making sacrifices for love. Julia and Ben share their journey of career changes, infertility, and IVF, all while establishing their careers and working while carrying this mental burden. They both experienced the pressure of finding a s...
In this conversation, Chad and Craig welcome Austin Stefani to the show to discuss various topics related to their personal lives and careers. They talk about their recent activities, the challenges of being a parent, and the importance of work-life balance. Austin shares his journey in sales, starting from scratch as an account manager and working his way up to VP roles at large companies. He also talks about the transition to a management role and the importance of empowering and supporting...
Chad and Craig welcome Yousuf Khan, Partner at Ridge Ventures to this week's pod. Yousuf shares his career journey and offers advice for individuals considering starting a company or making a career change. He emphasizes the importance of making decisions, being intellectually curious, and building genuine relationships within the tech industry. Yousuf also highlights the value of resilience, community, and the willingness to learn from others. He encourages individuals to follow their dreams...