Discover how leadership, love, and trust transformed an autistic teen’s life, and how it can change yours and your most important relationships! Parents, this episode is a Can't Miss, Don't Miss opportunity! Coach Jim Johnson doesn’t just talk about winning, he talks about leading with heart and he walks that walk in his own life!

Coach's story of the miracle that took place on February 15th, 2006 in Rochester, New York is nothing short of stunning. On that night Jason McElwain ("J-Mac"), a young autistic team manager made sports history. And J-Mac's story is more than inspirational—it’s a lesson in what happens when we lead with love, build trust, and coach instead of control. This conversation will move you to connect more deeply with your teen, which is not always an easy task!

Let’s be real: parenting a teen athlete or performer can feel like walking a tightrope. But what if the key isn’t more discipline—it’s more coaching? What if you became a better leader? Beyond the J-Mac story, Coach Johnson shares the 7 leadership principles that he has developed over his legendary career. He continues sharing this wisdom today in his books, his motivational keynote speeches, his podcast, and his everyday conversations with people everywhere.

Let's go!! It is time for LESSONS with the incomparable Coach Jim Johnson.

The Timestamps!

00:00 The Journey of Coach Jim Johnson

11:24 The J-Mac Miracle Story

18:27 Leadership Lessons from Coaching

19:27 Embracing Vulnerability in Leadership

20:27 The Power of Team Unity

21:53 A Memorable Senior Night

23:40 Jason's Journey to the Spotlight

26:13 The Essence of Teamwork

28:15 Overcoming Challenges and Building Momentum

31:25 Proud Moments in Coaching

33:17 Fostering Connection Over Performance Pressure

36:56 The Art of Questioning in Leadership

44:31 Building Relationships with Parents

47:26 The Limitless Leadership Lounge Podcast

51:28 Building Skills and Team Philosophy

51:59 The Seven Keys to Leadership

53:12 Clarifying Vision and Personal Mission

54:33 Building Trust in Leadership

56:23 Creating an Edge and Effective Communication

01:00:27 Leading by Example

01:01:51 The Importance of Servant Leadership

01:02:41 Influential Leadership Books and Their Impact

01:05:16 Key Skills for Emerging Leaders

01:09:16 Advice for Parents of Struggling Athletes

Want more from Coach Jim Johnson? Here are a few places you can find him:

coachjimjohnson.com

The Limitless Leadership Lounge Podcast

LinkedIn

Please SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube channel where our unique show for parents of teen athletes and performers resides. The name of our YouTube channel is: The STOP PARENTING & START COACHING Podcast!

And check out what we're up to at createtransformbecome.com. There you can pick up our 100% Free QOC Tool (The Question Only Conversation!).

-Nate & Steve

Silent contracts filled with expectations usually lead to disappointment and communication breakdowns. This is gonna lead to some "A words!" You know, we could probably name this episode "The A Words!"

What "A" words you ask? Agreements (oh yeah, much better!) and Awareness (ok, now we're talking!). In this episode we're going to discuss how to use Awareness so you can cancel those bad silent contracts and more toward creating powerful Agreements!

Let's go parents! Let's stop parenting and start coaching!!

The Takeaways

• Silent contracts can create misunderstandings in relationships.
• Assumptions often lead to negative outcomes in communication.
• Agreements are more sound than flimsy assumptions.
• Awareness of past silent contracts can help in parenting.
• Constant communication is essential for aligning expectations.
• Parents should ask their teens about their perceived expectations.
• Effort in communication can save time and reduce guilt when expectations are not met.
• Aligning expectations with teens can empower them to succeed.
• Canceling silent contracts can build trust in relationships.
• Open dialogues can help clarify assumptions and expectations.

Hey there Most Valuable Parents! We are creating a world-class podcast for parents of teen athletes and performers on YouTube. We can also be found on the other usual places you get your podcasts like Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

New episodes drop every MONDAY.

We would be most grateful if you would SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube channel where our unique show for parents of teen athletes and performers resides. The name of our podcast is the same name as our YouTube channel: The STOP PARENTING & START COACHING Podcast!

We'd be even more grateful (if that's possible) if you would like, review, comment or SHARE an episode wherever you find us. This helps us to become more visible to other Most Valuable Parents like yourselves--thank you!

And, there’s more–there always isn't there?! If you’ve read this far you probably are totally nerdy and giddy about helping teen athletes and performers to excel. Well, we do too and that’s why we’re creating parent, uh coaching tools/courses/coaching at createtransformbecome.com. Check it out where you can pick up our 100% Free QOC Tool for parents (The Question Only Conversation!).

-Nate & Steve

Parents, what scoreboard are you using to measure your teen's success—and is it hurting more than helping? And, what scoreboard are they using to measure success—and is it creating momentum or stress in their lives?

Do you ever wonder if your teen is chasing results just to keep you happy—or worse, to feel worthy? We’re digging into that "silent contract" so many families carry without talking about it. You’ll walk away with tools to separate your teen’s performance from their identity, and strategies for helping them craft a scoreboard that reflects who they really want to become.

Find the Stuff You Want!

00:00 Defining Success: Momentum vs. Stress

01:59 Reflective Questions for Parents

06:01 Understanding Silent Contracts in Success

09:59 The Importance of Identity in Success

13:54 Different Scoreboards: Aligning Definitions of Success

19:59 Opportunities in Meltdowns: Growth Mindset

23:56 The Scoreboard Course--Creating Your Own Scoreboard for Success

The Takeaways!

-The way we define success can create momentum or stress.

-Reflective questions help parents understand their own definition of success.

-"Silent contracts" can exist in relationships without being discussed.

-It's crucial for teens to separate their identity from their performance.

-Parents should encourage their kids to define success for themselves.

-Meltdowns can be opportunities for growth and understanding.

-Creating a personal scoreboard helps measure success in a meaningful way.

-Chasing results can lead to dissatisfaction and a never-ending pursuit.

Hey there Most Valuable Parents! We are creating a world-class podcast for parents of teen athletes and performers on YouTube. We can also be found on the other usual places you get your podcasts like Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

New episodes drop every MONDAY.

We would be most grateful if you would SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube channel where our unique show for parents of teen athletes and performers resides. The name of our podcast is the same name as our YouTube channel: The STOP PARENTING & START COACHING Podcast!

We'd be even more grateful (if that's possible) if you would like, review, comment or SHARE an episode wherever you find us. This helps us to become more visible to other Most Valuable Parents like yourselves--thank you!

And, there’s more–there always isn't there?! If you’ve read this far you probably are totally nerdy and giddy about helping teen athletes and performers to excel. Well, we do too and that’s why we’re creating parent, uh coaching tools/courses/coaching at createtransformbecome.com. Check it out where you can pick up our 100% Free QOC Tool for parents (The Question Only Conversation!).

-Nate & Steve

Parenting teens isn’t about talking more — it’s about asking better. Discover the Question Only Tool today. Every parent wants their teen to succeed. But success doesn’t come from micromanaging — it comes from ownership. In this episode, we show you how to use The Question Only Conversation to guide your teen toward greater autonomy, confidence, and motivation — all while strengthening your bond.

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Teen Wisdom

03:51 The Shift from Parenting to Coaching

07:55 Empowering Teens Through Questions

10:02 The Power of Inquiry-Based Conversations

11:53 Real-Life Examples: Jason's Track Success

15:01 Maya's Dance Audition Journey

17:58 Lessons from Phil Jackson's Coaching Style

20:58 Implementing The Question Only Conversation (QOC)

Gold Nuggets

-Teens often possess wisdom that parents may overlook.

-Shifting from parenting to coaching can enhance relationships.

-Asking questions can empower teens to express their thoughts.

-Unsolicited advice can hinder a teen's sense of autonomy.

-Question Only Conversation is a powerful tool for parents.

-Building a relationship based on respect leads to better communication.

-Teens need to feel ownership of their successes.

-Self-determination theory emphasizes autonomy, mastery, and connection.

-Effective communication can prevent breakdowns in relationships.

-Parents should act as mirrors to help teens process their experiences.

Hey there Most Valuable Parents! We are creating a world-class podcast for parents of teen athletes and performers on YouTube. We can also be found on the other usual places you get your podcasts like Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

New episodes drop every MONDAY.

We would be most grateful if you would SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube channel where our unique show for parents of teen athletes and performers resides. The name of our podcast is the same name as our YouTube channel: The STOP PARENTING & START COACHING Podcast!

We'd be even more grateful if you would like, review, or comment or SHARE an episode from any of the platforms where you find us. This helps us to become more visible to other Most Valuable Parents--thank you!

And, there’s more–there always isn't there?! If you’ve read this far you probably are totally nerdy and giddy about helping teen athletes and performers to excel. Well, we do too and that’s why we’re creating parent, uh coaching tools/courses/coaching at createtransformbecome.com. Check it out where you can pick up our 100% Free QOC Tool for parents (The Question Only Conversation!).

-Nate & Steve

"Parenting is the hardest job, and there's not a close second!" Parents--we see you and we know that quote by our very own (Nate Crandall) is true as the ocean is blue. And that is exactly why we started this podcast back in the summer of 2023. We've been here every Monday for 93 weeks discussing a perspective shift and approach that helps parents to begin coaching their athletes and performers. That crucial shift requires that your communication and connection with your teens is taken to a higher level. You can do this and we're here to help!

We're very excited to announce that we are ramping up our efforts to help you to stop parenting and start coaching. And our efforts will be seen in our every improving website, our creation of new tools and courses, our fully functional and growing YouTube channel, and our customized coaching offerings.

Thanks for helping us grow!

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Hey there Very Important Parents! We are striving to create a world-class podcast for parents of teen athletes and performers that is available for watching and listening on YouTube. We can also be found on the other usual places you get your podcasts like Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

New episodes drop every MONDAY.

We would be most grateful if you would SUBSCRIBE to our Podcast's YouTube channel where our unique show for parents of teen athletes and performers resides. The name of our podcast is the same name as our YouTube channel: The STOP PARENTING & START COACHING Podcast!

We'd be even more grateful (if that's possible) if you would like, review, or comment on any of the platforms where you find us. This helps us to become more visible to other Most Valuable Parents--thank you!

And...if you really love the show, we would be so grateful if you would SHARE an episode or two with another parent of a teen athlete or performer.

And as always, moms and dads, we're cheering you on as you Stop Parenting & Start Coaching!

And, there’s more–there always isn't there?! If you’ve read this far you probably are totally nerdy and giddy about helping teen athletes and performers to excel. Well, we do too and that’s why we’re creating parent, uh coaching, tools/courses/coaching at createtransformbecome.com. Check it out where you can pick up our 100% Free QOC Tool for parents (The Question Only Conversation!).

-Nate & Steve

Hey parents—what if the greatest measure of your teen's success wasn’t how many points they scored, solos they nailed, or trophies they earned... but how they made everyone around them better? In this episode, we unpack the powerful concept of becoming a multiplier, and why it might be the secret ingredient your teen is missing.

The Timestamps

00:00 The Concept of Win-Win-Win & Being a Multiplier

02:50 The Ripple Effect in Team Dynamics

05:33 The Power of Multipliers in Sports

08:39 Lessons from Larry Bird and Magic Johnson

11:08 The Role of Parents in Fostering Multipliers

13:56 Real-World Examples of Multipliers

16:41 Encouraging a Multiplier Mindset in Kids

19:39 The Distinction Between MOP and MVP

22:27 Closing Thoughts on Multipliers and Impact

Takeaways

-The concept of 'win-win-win' extends beyond traditional win-win scenarios.

-Larry Bird and Magic Johnson were masters at making their teammates better.

-Cooper Flagg exemplifies the multiplier effect in sports.

-True competition is about elevating everyone's performance.

-Multipliers create a ripple effect that benefits all involved.

-Parents should model multiplier behavior for their children.

-Asking the right questions can help children recognize their impact on others.

-Identifying multipliers in various fields can inspire kids.

-The distinction between MVP and MOP highlights the value of impact over individual accolades.

-Encouraging a multiplier mindset leads to greater joy and success in teams.

Hey there Very Important Parents! We are striving to create a world-class podcast for parents of teen athletes and performers that is available for watching and listening on YouTube. We can also be found on the other usual places you get your podcasts like Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

New episodes drop every MONDAY.

We would be most grateful if you would SUBSCRIBE to our Podcast's YouTube channel where our unique show for parents of teen athletes and performers resides. The name of our podcast is the same name as our YouTube channel: The STOP PARENTING & START COACHING Podcast!

We'd be even more grateful (if that's possible) if you would like, review, or comment on any of the platforms where you find us. This helps us to become more visible to other Most Valuable Parents--thank you!

And...if you really love the show, we would be so grateful if you would SHARE an episode or two with another parent of a teen athlete or performer.

And as always, moms and dads, we're cheering you on as you Stop Parenting & Start Coaching!

And, there’s more–there always isn't there?! If you’ve read this far you probably are totally nerdy and giddy about helping teen athletes and performers to excel. Well, we do too and that’s why we’re creating parent, uh coaching, tools/courses/coaching at createtransformbecome.com. Check it out where you can pick up our 100% Free QOC Tool for parents (The Question Only Conversation!).

-Nate & Steve

Are you the parent every coach dreads…or the one they trust? Learn how to have the team's back...in the right way. Parents: if your teen is competing at a high level, your support (or lack of) can either elevate the entire team or silently sabotage it. In this episode, Nate and Steve go deep on how to be a Team First Parent—the kind of presence every coach dreams of having support the team or performance group. You’ll walk away with real, actionable ways to help the program thrive—without crossing any lines.

The Timestamps!

00:00 The Importance of Being a Team First Parent

02:32 Navigating Parental Involvement for Your Teen's Team

05:32 The Motives Behind Parental Support

08:14 The Role of Parents in Team Dynamics

11:10 Balancing Team Support and Independence for Your Teen

13:59 Identifying Common Parental Pitfalls

16:54 The Ideal Team First Parent

19:50 Conclusion: Supporting Your Child's Journey

The BIG Takeaways

• Being a Team First Parent is crucial for youth development.
• Winning culture starts at home!
• Parents should support without overstepping their bounds.
• Clarity in motives is essential for effective parental involvement.
• The team belongs to the players and coaches, not the parents.
• Presence at events is important for children's morale.
• Avoid being the overbearing parent or the absentee one.
• Support the program as a whole!
• Consistent, appropriate parental support builds trust within the team.

Hey there Very Important Parents! We are striving to create a world-class podcast for parents of teen athletes and performers that is available for watching and listening on YouTube. We can also be found on the other usual places you get your podcasts like Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

New episodes drop every MONDAY.

We would be most grateful if you would SUBSCRIBE to our Podcast's YouTube channel where our unique show for parents of teen athletes and performers resides. The name of our podcast is the same name as our YouTube channel: The STOP PARENTING & START COACHING Podcast!

We'd be even more grateful (if that's possible) if you would like, review, or comment on any of the platforms where you find us. This helps us to become more visible to other Most Valuable Parents--thank you!

And...if you really love the show, we would be so grateful if you would SHARE an episode or two with another parent of a teen athlete or performer.

And as always, moms and dads, we're cheering you on as you Stop Parenting & Start Coaching!

And, there’s more–there always isn't there?! If you’ve read this far you probably are totally nerdy and giddy about helping teen athletes and performers to excel. Well, we do too and that’s why we’re creating parent, uh coaching, tools/courses/coaching at createtransformbecome.com. Check it out where you can pick up our 100% Free QOC Tool for parents (The Question Only Conversation!).

-Nate & Steve

Balancing parent and coach roles? Avoid the "Daddy ball" trap and create real success! Coaching your own kid can be both rewarding and challenging. You want to see them succeed, but how do you stay fair? Avoiding favoritism—or the appearance of it—is tough, and the "Daddy ball" label can quickly damage trust. In this episode, we break down how to lead with integrity, balance your roles, and create a positive experience for every player on the team. Take the "Daddy (and Mommy) ball" dive with us today! Let's go parents, let's get better so our teen athletes and performers can thrive!

The Timestamps!

00:00 The Daddy Ball Dilemma

02:01 Coaching Your Own Kids: A Unique Challenge

07:43 Balancing Coaching and Parenting

14:25 Setting Expectations and Boundaries

Takeaways

• 'Daddy ball' can create emotional conflicts in sports.
• Coaching your own kids is emotionally challenging.
• It's tough to separate being a parent from being a coach.
• Balancing fairness and favoritism is crucial.
• Open communication is key to successful Mom & Dad coaching.
• Coaching should focus on the child's experience.
• Finding joy in sports for our teens is the ultimate goal.

Hey there Very Important Parents! We are striving to create a world-class podcast for parents of teen athletes and performers that is available for watching and listening on YouTube. We can also be found on the other usual places you get your podcasts like Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

New episodes drop every MONDAY.

We would be most grateful if you would SUBSCRIBE to our Podcast's YouTube channel where our unique show for parents of teen athletes and performers resides. The name of our podcast is the same name as our YouTube channel: The STOP PARENTING & START COACHING Podcast!

We'd be even more grateful (if that's possible) if you would like, review, or comment on any of the platforms where you find us. This helps us to become more visible to other Most Valuable Parents--thank you!

And...if you really love the show, we would be so grateful if you would SHARE an episode or two with another parent of a teen athlete or performer.

And as always, moms and dads, we're cheering you on as you Stop Parenting & Start Coaching!

And, there’s more–there always isn't there?! If you’ve read this far you probably are totally nerdy and giddy about helping teen athletes and performers to excel. Well, we do too and that’s why we’re creating parent, uh coaching, tools/courses/coaching at createtransformbecome.com. Check it out where you can pick up our 100% Free QOC Tool for parents (The Question Only Conversation!).

-Nate & Steve