Join host Valerie Alston in this episode of 'Car Ride Conversations' as she reunites with her dad and former coach for an in-depth discussion on the parent-coach dynamic. Learn about the psychology behind sideline behavior, what separates champion teams, and the mindset shifts that took them from local league to national champions. Valerie and her dad share personal stories from their travel softball journey, valuable leadership lessons, and key insights on building trust, effort, and resilience in young athletes. Perfect for parent-coaches, the episode is packed with practical advice to help strengthen relationships and foster lifelong skills in young athletes. Tune in for actionable prompts designed to spark meaningful conversations during your next car ride. If you enjoy this episode, please leave a review and share it with others who might benefit!

00:00 Introduction: The Parent-Coach Dynamic

01:23 The Psychology of Sideline Behavior

02:17 Building a Winning Team Culture

03:12 Handling Pressure and Maintaining Composure

05:47 Inclusive Coaching and Player Development

10:17 Conversation Prompts for Parents and Kids

13:33 Closing Thoughts and Call to Action

Discussion questions:

1. What do you think matters more to a coach—effort or performance? Why? Follow-up: Have you ever had a game where you gave full effort but still made mistakes? How did it feel?
2. How should a team handle pressure when a game gets tight? Follow-up: What helps you stay calm and focused in big moments? What makes it harder?
3. Why is it important for every athlete to know their role on a team—even if they’re not always playing? Follow-up: What’s one way a coach or teammate could help someone feel more included even when they’re not on the field?
4. How should parents or coaches talk to kids about playing time or position changes?Follow-up: How would you want that feedback to be delivered to you?

Thanks for joining me on Confident, Calm, and Clutch Car Ride Conversations! If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe to the podcast so you never miss a moment. Share it with other parents or coaches who could use a little extra inspiration on the go.

For exclusive tips, tools, and updates join my newsletter at www.confidentcalmclutch.com/newsletter

For more specific tips on building mental toughness, buy my book Confident, Calm and Clutch: How to build confidence and mental toughness for young athletes using sports psychology

Parents join my Facebook group to Help Your Athlete Gain Mental Toughness for Parents

Have an idea for a topic? Submit your idea here.

Questions? Comments? Ideas? Email me: valerie.alston@valstoncoaching.com

Follow Me on:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/valstoncoaching

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Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@valstoncoaching9666

In this episode, host Valerie Alston is joined by recruiting expert and former college coach Quincy Lewis-Buggs. They delve into the often overlooked, emotionally charged parent-player dynamic in the college recruiting process. Quincy shares invaluable tips for parents on how to balance being supportive without overwhelming their young athletes. Learn the importance of proactive planning, family meetings, and third-party evaluations. Discover key strategies to ensure that both parents and athletes are on the same page, and gain insights on handling differing expectations and goals. This episode is packed with practical advice to help your athlete feel empowered and supported throughout their college recruiting journey. Whether you're already in the midst of the process or preparing for the future, this episode is a must-listen for every parent and athlete. Don't miss out on essential conversation prompts designed to spark meaningful dialogue and build stronger relationships.

Discussion questions:

1. “If you could design your ideal college experience, what would it look like — both on and off the field?”
2. “Do you feel like we’re on the same page when it comes to your recruiting goals? What do you think we agree on — and what might be different?”
3. “What part of the recruiting process feels exciting to you? What part feels stressful?”
4. “How can I support you better through this process without taking over too much?”

Find the Future First, Softball Second Podcast here: https://www.diamonddynamics.org/podcast.html

Thanks for joining me on Confident, Calm, and Clutch Car Ride Conversations! If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe to the podcast so you never miss a moment. Share it with other parents or coaches who could use a little extra inspiration on the go.

For exclusive tips, tools, and updates join my newsletter at www.confidentcalmclutch.com/newsletter

For more specific tips on building mental toughness, buy my book Confident, Calm and Clutch: How to build confidence and mental toughness for young athletes using sports psychology

Parents join my Facebook group to Help Your Athlete Gain Mental Toughness for Parents

Have an idea for a topic? Submit your idea here.

Questions? Comments? Ideas? Email me: valerie.alston@valstoncoaching.com

Follow Me on:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/valstoncoaching

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

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@valstoncoaching9666

In this episode of Confident Calm Clutch Car Ride Conversations, host Valerie Alston chats with recruiting expert and former college coach Quincy Lewis-Buggs about the college recruiting process. They cover key topics including when to start the recruiting process, the importance of letting athletes lead their journey, avoiding burnout, and understanding coachability. They also discuss how to practice the process, the importance of receiving feedback, and making informed decisions about college plans. Perfect for sports parents and young athletes looking to navigate the recruiting landscape effectively and confidently.

00:00 Introduction to College Recruiting

01:18 Meet Quincy Lewis-Buggs: Recruiting Expert

01:40 Key Considerations for Starting the Recruiting Process

02:37 Letting Athletes Lead the Process

03:23 The Role of Parents in the Recruiting Journey

04:39 Practicing the Process: Early Steps for Young Athletes

05:40 Understanding Different College Levels and Experiences

09:41 Taking Feedback and Showing Coachability

12:10 Evaluating Advice and Building a Support System

16:49 Final Thoughts and Words of Wisdom

18:43 Discussion Questions and Wrap-Up

Find the Future First, Softball Second Podcast here: https://www.diamonddynamics.org/podcast.html

Discussion questions:

• “Do you really want to play in college — or does it feel like someone else wants it more than you do?” -Opens up honest dialogue about motivation and ownership of the journey.
• “If a college coach gave you feedback today — would you be able to take it and grow, or would it shut you down?”- Helps athletes evaluate their coachability and mindset around constructive criticism.
• “Who’s in your support system vs. your inner circle when it comes to making big decisions?” - Encourages thoughtful separation of emotional support from expert guidance.
• “What does your ideal college experience look like — not just softball, but your life outside the game?” - Shifts focus from just chasing a label (D1, D2, etc.) to defining personal success.

Thanks for joining me on Confident, Calm, and Clutch Car Ride Conversations! If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe to the podcast so you never miss a moment. Share it with other parents or coaches who could use a little extra inspiration on the go.

For exclusive tips, tools, and updates join my newsletter at www.confidentcalmclutch.com/newsletter

For more specific tips on building mental toughness, buy my book Confident, Calm and Clutch: How to build confidence and mental toughness for young athletes using sports psychology

Parents join my Facebook group to Help Your Athlete Gain Mental Toughness for Parents

Have an idea for a topic? Submit your idea here.

Questions? Comments? Ideas? Email me: valerie.alston@valstoncoaching.com

Follow Me on:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/valstoncoaching

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

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@valstoncoaching9666