In this heartfelt episode of Warriors Unmasked, Chuck Thuss is joined by Emmy-nominated journalist and media consultant Mark Hayes for a powerful conversation about family, parenting, and finding hope in the midst of hardship. Mark shares his deeply personal story of navigating the challenges of raising two Division I student-athletes, the unexpected struggles that tested his family’s resilience, and the lessons he’s learned about connection, communication, and being truly present as a parent.

Mark discusses the founding of Varsity Connects, his initiative to bridge the gap between parents and their student-athletes, and how it was born out of his own experiences and pain. He opens up about the traumatic events that affected his family, including his son’s involvement in gang activity and subsequent incarceration, and the ripple effects it had on his wife, his younger son, and himself. Mark’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of intentionality in parenting and the need to build meaningful, supportive relationships with our children.

Key Takeaways from Mark’s Journey:

• The Difference Between Being There and Being Present: Mark emphasizes that showing up isn’t enough; parents need to be actively engaged in their children’s lives. From asking deeper questions to truly listening, Mark encourages parents to prioritize presence over mere proximity.
• The Power of Connection and Communication: Mark shares how meaningful conversations can open doors to understanding your child’s world and stresses the importance of knowing your child’s influences, friends, and struggles.
• Resilience and Redemption: Mark reflects on his son’s journey toward redemption and how their family has remained hopeful and supportive throughout the challenges. He underscores the significance of unconditional love and being a constant source of encouragement.

Insights for Parents and Caregivers

Mark provides practical strategies for parents looking to strengthen their relationships with their children. From having intentional conversations on the drive home from practice to creating family rituals like weekly dinners, Mark’s advice is actionable and impactful. He also highlights how Varsity Connects is helping families foster deeper connections and navigate the unique challenges of raising student-athletes.

A Message of Hope and Redemption

For parents who feel disconnected from their children or are facing challenges within their families, Mark offers words of encouragement. He reminds listeners that healing and reconciliation are always possible and that starting with small, meaningful conversations can pave the way for transformative change.

To connect with Mark Hayes, visit VarsityConnects.com to learn more about his work and schedule a consultation. You can also reach out to him at info@markhayesconsulting.com.

Listen to the full episode for Mark’s inspiring story and practical advice on being present, fostering connections, and building stronger families. Don’t miss the invaluable insights shared by Chuck and Mark in this heartfelt conversation.

Stay Connected If this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who might benefit from hearing Mark’s story and insights. For coaching opportunities or speaking engagements with Chuck, follow the links in the show notes. Together, let’s make a difference in the lives of those we love most.

GUEST LINKS:

• https://www.instagram.com/varsity_connects
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-hayes-

LINKS:

• www.thecompassionateconnection.com
• www.warriorsunmasked.com 
• Join Chuck’s Text Community: 251-418-7966

Episode Minute By Minute:

• 00:00 Introduction and Welcome
• 03:12 Mark shares his background in journalism and media
• 07:25 The founding of Varsity Connects and its mission
• 12:48 Mark’s journey as a father of two Division I student-athletes
• 18:15 The challenges of balancing work, parenting, and personal growth
• 24:36 Navigating a family crisis and its impact on relationships
• 30:02 The importance of being present, not just physically there
• 34:18 Mark’s advice for building meaningful connections with children
• 39:22 Lessons learned from trauma and resilience
• 43:50 How Varsity Connects helps families navigate student-athlete life
• 48:10 Closing thoughts and message of hope for parents
• 51:05 How to connect with Mark Hayes and learn more about his work