The Thinklete Podcast

Derek Shunk

The Thinklete Podcast explores athlete mindset, performance, and the unique edge of neurodivergent thinking. Hosted by Derek Shunk, each episode shares practical strategies for building confidence, handling pressure, and helping athletes thrive on and off the field.

For parents and coaches who are raising and/or coaching a neurodivergent or ADHD child, who need support, guidance or strategies to try with your athlete, you are in the right place.

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18 episodes
Avg 48 min
English

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S1 · E18
August 12 · 49 min
Your Child Is More Than an Athlete: Raising Kids With ADHD in Sports
In this episode, we sit down with Allison Solomon, ADHD parenting coach, educator, and founder of ADHD Parenting Boot Camp. As a mom of three boys with ADHD—and someone with ADHD herself—Allison brings both personal experience and professional expertise to the conversation. We talk about raising ADHD athletes, performance anxiety, perfectionism, inconsistent performance, and helping kids build self-advocacy and a stronger mental game. Allison also shares what she wishes she had done differently while raising a talented athlete—and why your child's sport should be something they do, not who they are.
S1 · E17
August 2 · 55 min
Are We Ruining Youth Sports? Raising Confident ADHD Athletes
Are today's parents helping—or unintentionally hurting—their young athletes? In this powerful episode of the Thinklete Podcast, Derek and Aleka sit down with Kirsten Jones—former Nike executive, Division I Hall of Fame athlete, bestselling author of Raising Empowered Athletes, and one of the leading voices in youth sports parenting. Together they unpack why youth sports have become more stressful than ever, how parents can stop chasing outcomes, and what actually builds confidence in athletes—especially those with ADHD and other neurodivergent brains. In this conversation, you'll learn: Why parents should be potters, not promoters How to build lasting confidence instead of chasing trophies The biggest mistakes parents make on the sidelines Why body language matters more than talent How to help ADHD athletes handle criticism and coaching The "3 Fs" every young athlete needs: Friends, Fun, and Fundamentals Why college coaches care more about character than statistics How to make the car ride home after games a positive experience Why listening is one of the greatest parenting skills in sports Whether you're raising an elite athlete or simply want your child to love sports for life, this episode is packed with practical strategies you can use immediately. Connect with Kirsten Jones:🌐 KirstenJonesInc.com If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the Thinklete Podcast, leave a review, and share it with another parent or coach who wants to help young athletes build confidence, resilience, and a lifelong love of sports.
S1 · E16
July 20 · 1 hr 1 min
How One Family's ADHD Journey Is Changing Thousands of Lives
After losing their son Anthony at just 18 years old, Tony and Cassi made a promise that no family should have to navigate the challenges of ADHD alone. That promise became Anthony's Road to Kindness—a nonprofit dedicated to helping families find hope, guidance, and the right support system for neurodivergent children. In this powerful conversation, we discuss Anthony's journey from his early ADHD diagnosis and struggles with bullying, learning differences, and self-esteem to the lasting impact he continues to have on thousands of families today. Tony and Cassi share how they built a unique roadmap that connects families with ADHD coaches, psychologists, tutors, education advocates, nutritionists, therapists, and other specialists so parents no longer have to navigate the journey alone. We also dive into the role parents and coaches play in shaping confidence, why traditional discipline often fails with ADHD athletes, the importance of finding each child's strengths, overcoming negative self-talk, and why having an entire team speaking the same language can completely change a child's future. Whether you're raising a neurodivergent child, coaching young athletes, or simply want to better understand ADHD, this episode is filled with practical advice, hope, and a powerful reminder that every child deserves people who believe in them.
S1 · E15
June 29 · 43 min
Breaking The ADHD Stigma in Sports
Why do so many ADHD athletes get labeled as "too emotional," "not paying attention," or "badly behaved" when the reality is something completely different? In this episode of The Thinklete Podcast, Derek and Aleka are joined by Thinklete mentor Janie Kokakis—former Division I track athlete, speech-language pathologist, and ADHD parent—to have an honest conversation about the stigma surrounding ADHD athletes. Together, they discuss: Why emotional outbursts aren't a sign of weakness or bad parenting The hidden strengths of ADHD athletes and why they often care the most How executive functioning impacts sports performance Why visualization should include mistakes—not just success The importance of accountability, emotional regulation, and resilience How parents and coaches can better support neurodivergent athletes without taking away their love of the game Whether you're a parent, coach, or athlete, this episode will challenge common misconceptions and give you practical insights into helping ADHD athletes build confidence, manage pressure, and thrive both on and off the field. If you've ever felt judged because your child struggles emotionally during competition, this conversation is for you. For more information about our mentorship program, please visit Thinklete.com
S1 · E14
May 17 · 55 min
What ADHD Athletes Actually Need Nutritionally
Our guest this episode is Amy Pieczarka, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) with over 40 years of experience specializing in functional nutrition, gut health, food sensitivities, and personalized nutrition strategies. She is the creator and director of PrevyMedica Nutrition Services, where she helps individuals and families improve focus, regulation, health, and performance through nutrition.Most parents are trying to coach behavior… without realizing what may actually be driving it.In this episode, Derek and Aleka sit down with registered dietitian nutritionist Amy Pizarca to break down the connection between nutrition, emotional regulation, focus, and performance in neurodivergent athletes.They discuss:-Why ADHD athletes often have higher nutritional demandsThe gut-brain connection and how it impacts behavior-Food sensitivities and inflammation-Why blood sugar regulation matters for focus and emotional control-How nutrition affects neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin-Strategies for selective eaters and sensory-sensitive kids-Pre-game and post-game fueling tips-What parents can do if ADHD medication suppresses appetiteSimple changes families can start making immediatelyThis conversation connects a lot of dots for parents who feel like they’ve tried everything.If you’ve ever wondered whether nutrition could be impacting your child’s focus, confidence, emotional regulation, or sports performance — this episode is for you.PreviMedica IG: https://www.instagram.com/previmedica/
S1 · E13
May 3 · 35 min
Why ADHD Athletes Struggle With Emotions (And How to Fix It)
In this episode, Derek and Aleka sit down with Michael McLeod, founder of GrowNOW ADHD, creator of the Internal Skills Coaching Model, and an award-winning speaker with over 20 years of experience helping kids and families navigate ADHD and executive functioning challenges. As the author of The Executive Function Playbook and a leading voice in ADHD development, Mike’s work centers on owne core idea: kids with ADHD don’t lack intelligence—they lack an “internal GPS.” This conversation challenges the traditional view of ADHD, reframing it as a disorder of executive functioning, not attention. Instead of focusing on surface-level behaviors like hyperactivity or eye contact, Mike explains why real growth comes from building internal skills—self-awareness, emotional regulation, motivation, and independence. Throughout the episode, he breaks down why many common parenting and coaching approaches—like constant reminders, lectures, or forcing accountability—often backfire by increasing dysregulation and creating more conflict. ADHD is not about attention—it’s about performance and internal skill gaps. Kids need experiences, not constant verbal correction, to build executive functioning. Emotional regulation improves when adults remove attention during dysregulation, not add more. The car ride home after games is critical—say less, not more. True accountability develops through natural consequences, not forced apologies. Parents should aim for an authoritative approach with clear structure and less negotiation. Coaches and parents can use a simple framework: “ready vs. not ready” behavior. Sports and movement are some of the most effective ways to build the ADHD brain. This episode will change how you think about ADHD—and give you practical tools to help your child build confidence, regulate emotions, and succeed both on and off the field. Follow Mike: https://www.instagram.com/grownowadhd/
S1 · E13
April 14 · 35 min
From Participation to Leadership: Inside the Special Olympics Movement
In this episode, Derek sits down with Special Olympics athlete leaders Declan Fawcett and Amanda Harrinauth, along with Alyssa Cress, Manager of Inclusive Leadership Development for Special Olympics North America, to explore the true meaning of leadership, inclusion, and opportunity. Together, they share how Special Olympics has created a space where athletes can not only compete, but lead—amplifying their voices, shaping their communities, and breaking down misconceptions around intellectual disabilities. From powerful personal stories to practical insights on coaching, parenting, and mentorship, this conversation highlights a simple but important truth: Inclusion isn’t about doing more—it’s about listening, understanding, and creating space for every athlete to thrive. You’ll learn: How leadership opportunities transform confidence and identity Why “nothing about us without us” is critical in sport and life What great coaches and mentors do differently How parents and communities can better support neurodivergent and differently wired athletes This episode is a reminder that being different isn’t a limitation—it’s an edge. Learn more about Special Olympics at SpecialOlympics.org Follow: @SONorthAmerica #ChooseToInclude #neurodivergentathletes #differentisyouredge
S1 · E12
April 7 · 1 hr 12 min
The Bullied Brain: What Coaches Are Doing That Harms Kids
What if the biggest threat to your child’s development isn’t failure… but the environment they’re in? In this episode, we sit down with Jennifer Frazier—best-selling author of The Bullied Brain and The Gaslit Brain—to unpack the hidden impact of bullying, toxic coaching, and psychological abuse in youth sports. A former award-winning educator who taught at the University of Toronto, Jennifer left her career after exposing the coverup of student abuse—fueling her mission to bring brain science into youth sports. Her work has reached #1 on Amazon in sport psychology, been endorsed by leading neuroscientists, and influenced organizations across North America. In this conversation, we break down how “old school coaching,” verbal abuse, and humiliation don’t just hurt feelings—they can actually change brain development in young athletes. You’ll learn: How bullying impacts the brain Why toxic environments are often normalized Warning signs parents miss Why neurodivergent athletes are more vulnerable How to build healthier, high-performing environments 🎯 Because toughness should never come at the cost of a child’s brain.
S1 · E11
April 2 · 48 min
Inside IMG: How Elite Athletes Are Actually Built
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Cat Lutz, Director of Mental Performance at IMG Academy, to break down what truly separates elite athletes from the rest—and why it has far more to do with mindset than talent. With over a decade of experience working with athletes from youth to professional levels—and a background as a Division I athlete and professional basketball player herself—Cat brings both lived experience and elite-level expertise in sport psychology. We explore how IMG Academy builds high-performing athletes through a holistic system that integrates mental performance, coaching, academics, and family support. The conversation dives deep into confidence, resilience, and the mental skills that actually drive long-term success—especially for neurodivergent athletes. You’ll learn: The real traits that separate elite athletes (beyond physical ability) How to support neurodivergent athletes by leaning into their strengths Why overcoaching hurts performance—and what to do instead Simple tools like breathwork, focusing on controllables, and reframing challenges How to build confidence and resilience in everyday moments Whether you’re a parent, coach, or athlete, this episode delivers practical strategies and a powerful new perspective on performance, development, and what it really takes to win—on and off the field. Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/catherine-lutz44 IG: @610_Performance
S1 · E9
March 19 · 46 min
The Youth Sports Problem No One Wants to Talk About
Youth sports should build confidence, resilience, and character. But too often, pressure, comparison, and adult expectations get in the way.In this episode of Thinklete, Derek Shunk sits down with John O’Sullivan, internationally recognized TEDx speaker and founder of the Changing the Game Project. Since launching the organization in 2012, John has helped schools, clubs, and sports organizations around the world create healthier environments for young athletes.John is the author of three #1 bestselling books — Changing the Game, Every Moment Matters, and Champion Teammate — and host of the Way of Champions Podcast, one of the most respected podcasts in the world for coaches.A former collegiate and professional soccer player with over 20 years of coaching experience, John has consulted with organizations including the US Olympic Committee, US Soccer, USA Football, USA Lacrosse, USA Swimming, Ireland Rugby, and Aussie Rules Football. He also serves on the National Advisory Boards for the Positive Coaching Alliance and the National Association for Physical Literacy.In this conversation, Derek and John break down what the best coaches in the world actually do differently—and how parents and coaches can reshape the youth sports experience so kids don’t just perform, they grow.In this episode we discuss:• The biggest mistakes parents make in youth sports• Why early performance is a poor predictor of long-term success• The dangers of early specialization and year-round competition• How to develop resilience, confidence, and intrinsic motivation in young athletes• Why fun and joy are essential for long-term athlete developmentThe ultimate message: kids get one childhood — youth sports should make it a great one.🎙️ Follow John at instagram.com/ctgprojecthq✔️ Check out his website: https://changingthegameproject.com/
S1 · E8
March 12 · 56 min
Helping Neurodivergent Athletes Handle Pressure, Mistakes, and Competition
On this episode of Thinklete, Derek Shunk sits down with Emma Lapierre, an Accredited Social Worker specializing in athlete mental health, to explore the unique mental pressures athletes face—especially neurodivergent athletes navigating performance, perfectionism, emotional regulation, and burnout. Emma shares both professional insight and personal experience as a former athlete, offering practical guidance for parents and coaches supporting neurodivergent kids in sports. Derek also opens up about real challenges he’s faced as a parent of a neurodivergent athlete, leading to an honest conversation about pressure, confidence, coaching environments, and building sustainable mental strength. If you're a parent, coach, or athlete trying to balance competition, confidence, and mental health, this episode provides practical strategies and a powerful reminder: success in sport starts with understanding how each athlete’s brain works. About Emma LapierreEmma Lapierre is an Accredited Social Worker with a background in mental health and sport social work. She supports young athletes and their families as they navigate performance pressure, confidence challenges, and the emotional ups and downs that come with competitive sport. Drawing on both professional training and lived experience, Emma has a strong interest in supporting neurodivergent athletes to identify their strengths and thrive in sport. Learn more about Emma:🌐 www.rysewellbeing.com.au📧 info@rysewellbeing.com.au 📱 Instagram:@mindfultherapistem@rysewellbeing
S1 · E7
March 7 · 53 min
The Athlete You’re Frustrated With Might Be Processing Differently
On almost every team, there are young athletes who want to succeed. They look capable. They understand the game. They care. But something isn’t clicking.They’re inconsistent. They overreact. They miss instructions. And too often, they get labeled lazy, unfocused, or "uncoachable".But what if the issue isn’t effort? What if it’s processing??In this episode, Derek sits down with Dr. Timothy Baghurst and Dr. Christopher Stanley, co-authors of Reach Every Athlete, to explore how coaches can better support athletes with hidden disabilities and neurodivergent conditions — including ADHD, autism spectrum differences, learning disabilities, processing challenges, and more.This conversation challenges the one-size-fits-all coaching model and reframes breakdowns in performance as understanding gaps — not discipline failures.This episode is not about lowering standards. It’s about coaching with more precision.Because when you understand how an athlete processes the world, you don’t reduce expectations — you remove unnecessary barriers.If you’re a parent, volunteer coach, high school coach, or athletic director, this is a must-listen conversation.🎙️ About Out Guests:Dr. Christopher Stanley is a sport and performance psychology professor and coach specializing in athlete development and neurodivergence in sport. He co-authored Reach Every Athlete, helping coaches better support athletes with hidden disabilities and processing differences. Learn more about Dr. Stanley ➡️ https://www.uws.edu/faculty/byname/ch...Dr. Timothy Baghurst is Director of FSU COACH at Florida State University and a leading scholar in athletic coaching education. He co-authored Reach Every Athlete, focusing on practical strategies to help coaches create more effective, inclusive environments.Learn more about Dr. Baghurst ➡️ https://www.timbaghurst.com/📕 Purchase their book, 'Reach Every Athlete' ➡️ https://www.amazon.com/Reach-Every-At...
S1 · E6
February 27 · 44 min
Parent First. Coach Second: Raising Competitive Kids Without Losing the Relationship
Every parent says they just want what’s best for their kid.But in youth sports, that line gets blurry fast.When does support turn into pressure?When does coaching cross into control?And how do you raise a competitive athlete without damaging the relationship?In this episode of Thinklete, Derek sits down with Ben Cecchini, author of Full-Time Parent… Part-Time Coach, to unpack the real challenges parent-coaches face today.This conversation dives into:How to be caring, fun, and fair in youth sportsThe difference between intention and impact in communicationWhy the post-game car ride matters more than you thinkPraising the process vs. praising performanceTeaching grit without yellingUsing breathwork and emotional regulation as a coachLetting go of ego in youth sportsRaising resilient athletes without burnoutBen shares practical tools for balancing competitiveness with connection — and why your primary job is always to be a parent first.If you’re coaching your child…If you’ve ever left a game frustrated…If you care about long-term development more than trophies…This episode is for you.📚 Learn More from Ben Cecchini ⬇️📸 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/givengrow.co/?hl=en🌱 Give & Grow:https://www.giveandgrow.co📘 Full-Time Parent… Part-Time Coach: A Practical Guide for How to Be a Caring, Fun, and Fair Youth Sports Coachhttps://www.amazon.ae/Full-Time-Parent-Part-Time-Coach-Practical/dp/0578706458
S1 · E5
February 24 · 42 min
Building Grit: From the NFL to Developing the Next Generation with Vernon Kearney
Talent gets you noticed. Character keeps you in the room. In this powerful episode of the Thinklete Podcast, Derek sits down with former NFL defensive back, Vernon Kearney, to talk about what truly separates elite athletes from the rest, neurodivergent or not. After playing at Lane College and spending time with the Buffalo Bills, Kansas City Chiefs, and Cleveland Browns, Coach Vern transitioned from professional football to purpose-driven impact. Today, he’s the founder of Peak Performance Outreach, where he develops speed, strength, and agility — but more importantly, discipline, emotional regulation, accountability, and mental toughness in young athletes. This conversation goes far beyond drills and combine prep. Coach Vern shares: Why coachability is the #1 trait of elite athletes How to build grit without breaking a child’s confidence Why emotional kids don’t need to be silenced — they need to be guided The importance of learning how to lose How mental training (yes, even chess) shapes game-day performance What parents and coaches can do if they don’t have access to elite training Why discipline, order, and structure create freedom Derek also shares personal insight from having his own son train under Coach Vern — and the transformation that happens when physical training is paired with intentional mental development. Whether you’re a parent of a neurodivergent athlete, a coach trying to build stronger character in your players, or someone who believes success is built long before the spotlight — this episode will challenge and inspire you. Because in the end, it’s not about the hill. It’s about who you become running it. Check Out Coach Vern's Peak Performance Outreach: https://www.peakperformanceoutreach.com/ www.instagram.com/peakperformanceath_
S1 · E4
February 13 · 46 min
We’re Blaming the Kid Instead of Fixing the Problem
In this episode of the Thinklete Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Ross Greene, author of The Explosive Child and Lost at School, to challenge everything we’ve been taught about discipline, behavior, and defiance. Dr. Greene’s core belief is simple—and disruptive: kids do well if they can. When they don’t, the issue isn’t motivation or attitude—it’s unmet skills and unsolved problems. This conversation covers: Why behavior is a signal, not the problem Why punishment and rewards fail to build skills How environment shapes regulation and resilience The power of collaborative problem solving over control What parents and coaches can do when kids keep struggling This episode is for parents, coaches, and educators who feel stuck in power struggles—and are ready for a better way to help kids grow without lowering expectations. 🎧 Listen, rethink discipline, and start solving the right problems. Follow Dr. Ross Greene: Website: https://livesinthebalance.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/livesinthebalance/ Website: https://cpsconnection.com/ Documentary: https://www.thekidswelose.com/
S1 · E3
February 11 · 48 min
More Than Medals: The Real Purpose of Jiu-Jitsu for Kids
In this episode of the Thinklete Podcast, I sit down with Coach Werther Marciales, founder of Fellowship Jiu-Jitsu in Sarasota, Florida, for a deep, honest conversation about Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, neurodivergent athletes, and real-world development beyond wins and medals. Coach Werther shares his personal journey—from struggling with ADHD as a kid, losing his first 19 wrestling matches, and finding confidence through combat sports—to becoming a coach who prioritizes character, resilience, and emotional growth as much as physical skill. Together, they explore: Why Jiu-Jitsu is uniquely powerful for neurodivergent and neurotypical kids How holding all athletes to the same standard builds confidence and fairness Teaching kids to handle failure, frustration, and emotional regulation The role of respect, discipline, and environment in long-term success Why culture matters more than trophies, facilities, or price How combat sports help kids develop social skills, confidence, and mental toughness that transfer to school, relationships, and life This episode is a must-watch for: ✔ Parents of neurodivergent athletes (ADHD, ASD, sensory challenges) ✔ Coaches looking to build strong, fair, development-first programs ✔ Anyone who believes youth sports should prepare kids for life, not just competition If you’ve ever wondered whether there’s a better alternative to traditional team sports—or what kind of environment truly helps kids thrive—this conversation delivers real answers. 👉 Subscribe for more conversations on youth sports, mental performance, and athlete development 👉 Comment below if Jiu-Jitsu or martial arts has impacted your child’s confidence or growth ⬇️Follow Werther below: Fellowship Jiu-Jitsu: https://fellowshipjiujitsu.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fellowshipjiujitsusarasota/?hl=en
S1 · E2
February 6 · 1 hr 1 min
Building Strength Beyond the Gym with Eric Chessen
In this powerful episode of Thinklete, Derek Shunk sits down with Eric Chessen, founder of Autism Fitness, to explore how fitness can become a lifelong skill for neurodivergent athletes—not just a short-term activity. Eric shares his personal journey from a non-elite sports background to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu brown belt, strength coach, and behavior science specialist. Along the way, he explains how his dual background in psychology and strength training led him to develop a groundbreaking, evidence-based approach to fitness for autistic and neurodivergent individuals—one that prioritizes autonomy, trust, structure, and meaningful progress over force or rigid expectations. This conversation dives deep into: Why fitness must be done with athletes, not to them How choice, structure, and behavior-specific praise drive motivation and perseverance The difference between pain vs. discomfort—and why it matters in coaching How parents and coaches can support neurodivergent athletes without lowering standards Why repetition, routine, and accountability can be a hidden advantage How strength training supports independence, confidence, and quality of life across the lifespan Whether you’re a parent, coach, educator, or athlete yourself, this episode challenges the way we think about performance, accountability, and success—especially for those who don’t fit the traditional mold. If you believe mental skills, movement, and environment shape who athletes become long after sports end, this is a must-listen. 🎧 Tune in to hear why fitness isn’t just exercise—it’s a life skill. Check out Eric's website: https://www.autismfitness.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theautismfitness/?hl=en
S1 · E1
January 31 · 10 min
The Starting Line — Rethinking The Athlete
In this introductory episode, host Derek Shunk, a former professional baseball player, Division I baseball coach, and Villanova Hall of Fame inductee, shares the story behind Thinklete and the journey that shaped its philosophy. Now a parent navigating life with a neurodivergent child, Derek reflects on the challenges, missteps, and small adjustments that led to meaningful change. This episode sets the stage for the conversations to come, exploring how mindset, emotion, environment, and sport intersect — and why progress often comes through small wins, not big breakthroughs. You’ll hear how finding the right environments, rethinking expectations, and staying adaptable can unlock confidence, connection, and growth — both on and off the field. Future episodes will feature therapists, coaches, athletes, and authors who challenge conventional thinking and share practical perspectives to help parents, coaches, and athletes move forward with more clarity and confidence. Take what helps. Leave what doesn’t. Welcome to Thinklete.

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