Episode Summary.

Ever wondered how a World Series MVP pivots from the diamond to the pivotal role of nurturing young minds? Ben Zobrist, along with John Harrison, join us to unravel the inspiring journey behind Champion Forward, where the focus is on helping young athletes and their families, teams, and coaches succeed in sports while staying mentally and emotionally healthy. We don't just stop at discussing Champion Forward's mission; we dissect the nuances of leadership and teamwork in nonprofits.

This episode peels back the curtain on the emotional complexities in the world of youth sports and development. With candid conversations around the harmful cycle of achievement-based validation and the necessity for a supportive, emotionally intelligent environment, we offer a narrative that champions authenticity over accolades. As we navigate the delicate interplay between parental pressures and the development of intrinsic motivation, our guests share their personal experiences, shining a light on the essence of true identity and success that reaches far beyond the scoreboard.

For those steering a nonprofit or influencing young lives, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom. John Harrison imparts crucial advice on balancing the demands of leadership with self-care, while we discuss the power of versatility, not just in sports, but in all of life's arenas. Jump in with us as we explore the impact Champion Forward aims to make as they guide children and organizations alike towards a future where joy and authenticity trump the relentless pursuit of external validation.

‍

Chapters.

0:10 - Champion Forward
13:56 - Emotional Regulation and Performance in Sports
22:17 - Parental Emotions and Performance Pressure
25:41 - Intrinsic Motivation and Finding Identity
29:10 - Impact and Success Stories
42:32 - Importance of Versatility in Sports
45:41 - Balancing Sports, Faith, and Parenting
56:46 - Building a Nonprofit Organization

‍

Resources and Info.

If you’d like to recommend or be a guest on the show, email us at podcast@verscreative.com

‍

About Ben Zobrist and John Harrison

Ben Zobrist spent 14 years in the MLB, winning two World Series championships and was named the 2016 World Series MVP. He is the founder of the nonprofit Champion Forward and an advocate for the mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual health of those involved in the sports culture. He is passionate about helping people dive deeper into their distinct and unique purposes and loves spending time with his family.

John Harrison, the current vice president for Champion Forward, is a lifelong fan of sports and spent 20 years playing competitive amateur golf, including 4 years at the collegiate level. He is passionate about helping people connect to their stories, deepen their connections, and fulfill the callings on their lives. He can be found spending time on the golf course, hiking or at the gym with his wife, or watching his favorite sports teams, the Jayhawks and the Chiefs.

‍

Other Resources.

Champion Forward Website
Connect with Champion Forward
Donate to Champion Forward

‍

Sponsors and Links.

Powered by Vers Creative. Award Winning Creative Agency Trusted by Global Brands and Businesses

Follow @benzobrist18
‍Follow @championforward
Follow @collinhoke
Follow @heredes
Follow @vers_creative

Need margin? We can help. Work with Vers