In this insightful episode of Industry Insiders, we sit down with Kirsten Jones — former Nike executive, peak performance coach, and author of Raising Empowered Athletes. Drawing from her personal journey as a collegiate volleyball player and sports mom, Kirsten shares powerful lessons from her book and real-life experiences in youth sports, parenting, and coaching.
We cover a wide range of topics, including:
We cover a wide range of topics, including:
- Kirsten’s early sports experiences growing up in Montana — and why ballet and piano weren’t her calling
- The empowering collegiate transition from San Diego State to William & Mary
- How her time at Nike in Europe shaped her perspective on youth sports and branding
- The critical difference between a child’s dream and a parent’s projection
- Why major sports brands are complicit in the commercialization (and pressure) of youth sports
- The central philosophy behind her work: “We’re not raising athletes; we’re raising adults”
- Personal stories of resilience, including how she overcame bullying in sports
- How to recognize burnout in youth athletes — and what to do about it
- A message to coaches: “Every kid on the roster matters. If you don’t care, they shouldn’t be on the team.”
- Her hopes for her legacy, her 40-year life plan, and the game-day ritual she shares with her kids
Whether you’re a parent, coach, or simply invested in the future of youth sports, this conversation offers fresh perspective, actionable advice, and inspiration for raising empowered, confident young people.
Learn more about Kirsten and her book: Raising Empowered Athletes
Learn more about Kirsten and her book: Raising Empowered Athletes