In this episode of The Raw Tallant podcast, host Dave Tallant invites listeners on a personal journey of reflection, revelation, and redemption. Drawing from his own experience as a father, coach, Marine, and law enforcement officer, Dave unpacks what it really means to parent, and lead, with purpose in today’s youth sports culture.
Fresh from a lacrosse tournament, Dave shares a transformative encounter with sideline culture, one that led him to re-examine his past behaviors and ask the hard questions: Was my voice from the sideline helping, or hurting? Was I building up my kids, or my own ego? Was I leading in love, or reacting in pressure? Through these honest reflections and powerful stories, including a heartfelt letter from his sons titled The Great, Good, Bad, and Ugly of Dad, Dave explores the lasting impact of how we show up in our children’s lives.
Anchored by the wisdom found in Andrew Simpson’s book The Youth Truth, this episode becomes a rally cry for parents, coaches, and mentors to become transformational leaders who put purpose over performance, and connection over control.
Your presence matters more than your pressure. Yelling from the sidelines rarely helps, being emotionally safe and grounded does.
Our children’s purpose is greater than sports. They weren’t created to be athletes or students, but image-bearers with divine assignments.
We must ask: Who am I being? Are my child’s eyes shining in my presence, or dimmed by my unmet expectations?
Legacy is shaped in the little moments. A coach’s or parent’s greatest influence isn’t strategy, it’s character.
True transformation begins in vulnerability. Dave shares a powerful exercise that reshaped his identity and his relationship with his sons.
Dave also issues a call to faith: to surrender, seek God’s truth, and allow His love to shape how we lead our children. If you’ve ever wondered if there’s more to youth sports, or more to your role as a parent, this is the episode for you.
“Be the leader your children remember—not just for your words, but for the love that made their eyes shine.” - Dave Tallant
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