Top 6 Parenting Mistakes That Cause Kids to Quit Sports

Episode 35: Asia Mape (4-time Emmy Award winning journalist and Sports Television producer, Founder of "I Love To Watch You Play" blog)

In this episode, I sit down with Asia Mape, a sports media veteran turned youth sports advocate, to discuss the biggest mistakes parents make, the changing culture of youth sports, and how we can do better.

🔹 From the Olympics to Youth Sports – Mape’s career covering five Olympics, multiple NBA playoffs, Super Bowls, and more gave her a front-row seat to elite athletes—but nothing prepared her for the world of youth sports parenting.

🔹 Lessons Learned the Hard Way – Mape has made mistakes as a youth sports parent, and now her mission is to help others navigate this tricky season of life.

🔹 Founder of “I Love to Watch You Play” – Her platform is a safe space for parents to learn, reflect, and reshape how they approach their child’s sports journey.

🔹 “Top 6 Parenting Mistakes That Cause Kids to Quit Sports” – Mape’s viral article breaks down the frighteningly accurate mistakes parents make—and how they contribute to the current youth sports madness.

🔹 Sifting Through the Chaos – With so much pressure and misinformation in youth sports, how can parents find the good and focus on what truly matters?

🔹 The Rise of the “Me First” Mentality – Parents and athletes are bringing an individual mindset into team sports, making the experience harder for everyone involved.

🔹 Protecting Your Child’s Love for the Game – Be a safe landing spot. Don’t let your child’s joy be stolen by pressure, over-coaching, or unrealistic expectations. There’s beauty in the struggle.

🔹 And of course… MORE Hot Takes!

If you're a youth sports parent, coach, or just love a good discussion on the evolving landscape of kids’ athletics, this one is a must-listen!