Shows
The Heavy Desert PodcastDust GiantToday on The Heavy Desert Podcast I welcome Mike Earles and Matt Henderson of the band Dust Giant, who just released their debut album, Static in the Blood in January, which landed at #13 on the January Doomcharts. We dig into their new album, their influences, their creative process (especially since they live across the country from each other) and much more, including another album coming out in May! I had a great chat with the guys, so please tune in and subscribe!
2026-02-1944 min
Everyday Mike#34 Keep It Positive w/ Kip McDanielKip McDaniel grew up in a competitive family of six, caught the coaching bug early, and now serves as Director at Midstate Soccer Club in Decatur, Illinois. As the outdoor spring season approaches, we sit down to talk player development, building club culture, and what it really looks like to keep youth sports positive.
We dig into the “Midstate way,” the value of multi-sport athletes, coaching coaches, and what Kip learned from meeting 1-on-1 with nearly 40 Midstate coaches. We also discuss what college recruiters actually notice (both good and bad), how to keep parents aligned with long-term development, and why posi...
2026-02-1945 min
Everyday Mike#33 When 1+1 Doesn't Equal 2Co-ops can be a great thing.
But when enrollment math doesn’t match participation reality, and standards don’t evolve with classification, teams feel it.
In this episode of Everyday Mike, I explore the good, the hard, and the often-ignored realities of co-ops in youth sports — and why moving up a class requires more than just combining rosters.
2026-01-2912 min
Everyday Mike#32 When the Drill BreaksWhat happens when a drill slows down, gets clunky, or falls apart?
In this episode of Everyday Mike, I share a simple basketball drill that reveals something much bigger about teamwork, communication, and response.
When mistakes happen — and they always do — teams have a choice. Do we freeze and wait? Or do we communicate, adjust, and move forward together?
This one’s for coaches, athletes, and parents who want to build teams — and habits — that hold up when things get hard.
2026-01-1405 min
Everyday Mike#31 The Car Ride Home Still MattersAs a coach and a parent, I’ve seen it from both sides.
Some of the best moments in youth sports happen after the game — and unfortunately, so can some of the most damaging ones.
In Episode #31 of Everyday Mike, I share a real car ride home after a tough county tournament loss, what it taught me about timing, emotion, and the “30-minute rule,” and why what kids hear between games often matters more than what they hear in them.
We talk about the challenge coaches face when they only get athletes for a short window, the long echo of parent c...
2025-12-1712 min
Everyday Mike#30 Standards > RulesIn youth sports, every team has rules — but the best programs live by standards. In this episode, Coach Mike breaks down the three non-negotiable standards that shape culture, effort, and identity: being coachable, being a great teammate, and giving 100% effort.
Using real stories from a full program rebuild, a Geno Auriemma quote on fatigue, and a behind-the-scenes look inside his junior high and high school basketball teams, Mike explains why rules only work when someone is watching — but standards work all the time.
If you’re a parent, coach, or athlete who cares about building something that actually lasts, this episod...
2025-12-0414 min
Everyday Mike#29 Building Culture When No One Else CaresBuilding a program is easy when you’ve got talent, trophies, and support.
But what happens when you’re starting from scratch — when you’re rebuilding, re-teaching, and sometimes wondering if anyone else even cares?
In this episode, Coach Mike gets real about the uphill grind of rebuilding a girls’ basketball program at a small school — and the frustration that comes when the people above you don’t seem to value what you’re trying to create.
From selling off old trophies to showing up every day with the same standard, this episode dives deep into what real culture looks like — and how t...
2025-11-1017 min
Everyday Mike#28 Some Days You Carry, Some Days You’re CarriedLife feels full right now — soccer, volleyball, basketball, harvest, work, family. But here’s the reminder I needed and maybe you do too: a full plate isn’t the problem … it’s the plan. In this episode, I break down three ideas that keep me moving forward: how we handle a full plate, how we manage our true capacity, and how support from others keeps us steady. Because some days you carry … and some days you’re carried.
2025-09-2512 min
Everyday Mike#27 Eye in the Sky Never Lies w/ Adam AndersonGame film is everywhere—from Hudl to Veo, from parents on the sideline to AI-tracked data breakdowns. But the question remains: Are we using it to develop our athletes—or to validate ourselves?
In this episode, Coach Mike catches up with friend and broadcaster Adam Anderson to dig into the culture of filming youth sports. They talk about film as a coaching tool, a parenting crutch, and a personal mirror. Mike shares how he uses Veo's AI stats to build better training sessions—and how reviewing his own body language and sideline tone has made him a better coach.
They also t...
2025-08-2945 min
Everyday MikeRoll Logs! Lincoln Land Judging and Leadership with Craig BeckmierCraig Beckmier has spent more than two decades building one of the top livestock judging programs in the country at Lincoln Land Community College. He’s more than a coach—he’s a mentor, a dad, and a man of faith who has shaped countless students for success beyond the ring.
In this episode, we dive into what makes Lincoln Land special, why character matters more than trophies, and how livestock judging builds confidence, communication, and life skills that last long after the contest ends.
2025-08-251h 14
Everyday Mike# 25 Lead Better, Not LouderA high school girl’s quiet sideline moment speaks volumes: “Dad, I love you… but please be quiet.” In this episode, Coach Mike explores what really helps — and what unintentionally hurts — from the sidelines. With real stories, research-backed insights, and practical tips for parents, coaches, and clubs, this is your reminder that sometimes the best leadership is a calm presence, not a louder voice.
2025-07-2219 min
Everyday Mike#24 Are You the Calm?After a wild weekend at a massive volleyball tournament, I reflect on what it means to be a good sports dad. From being present to staying calm in the chaos—this episode is for every dad on the sideline.
2025-07-1014 min
Everyday Mike#23 Build Skills Above Your Talent w/Jesse ElmoreJesse Elmore was the soccer guy growing up in our area. In this episode, we talk about his journey from starting the game at age 4 to playing professionally, and now coaching and raising kids in sports.
Jesse shares what helped him stand out as a young player, what opened doors, and why having great coaches made all the difference. We also dive into parenting, youth sports culture, and his thoughts on why U.S. soccer still struggles on the world stage.
A great conversation with someone who’s seen the game from every angle.
2025-06-281h 42
Everyday Mike#22 Tryouts: What Really MattersTryouts can feel like a pressure cooker. In this episode, I break down what really matters—being coachable, being a good teammate, and giving 100% effort. Plus, I share stories and a perspective-shifting experience from a high-end volleyball tryout.
2025-05-3120 min
Everyday MikeBehind Every Great Athlete: A Great Sports MomThis week on Everyday Mike, it’s all about the real MVPs of youth sports—moms. From sideline chaos to quiet sacrifices, Coach Mike shares personal stories, famous shoutouts (including Kevin Durant and Crystal Dunn), and a little birthday madness—all wrapped in a heartfelt Mother’s Day tribute. And yes, there’s even a competitive jab at his brother.
Whether you're a coach, parent, or athlete—this one’s for the moms who make it all possible.
2025-05-1113 min
Everyday Mike#20 What Easter Reminds Me (Even After It’s Over)Easter may be over, but the reminder sticks with me: we were made on purpose, with purpose. In this episode, I reflect on a full weekend of family, food, and a few quiet moments that brought some clarity about calling, leadership, and showing up—especially when it isn’t loud. Whether you're a parent, coach, or just trying to lead well in your own life, this one's for you.
2025-04-2611 min
Everyday Mike#19 A Volleyball Journey (From a Parent’s View)I reflect on my daughter’s volleyball journey—from her first open gym in 5th grade to the end of a successful 8th grade season. Along the way, I break down what she gained from playing club volleyball, how we approached growth through challenge, and the role open communication played in her development. I also share a few thoughts on how parents can support great coaches and help their kids become the best versions of themselves—on and off the court.
If you’re a youth sports parent, this one’s for you.
2025-04-1519 min
Everyday Mike#18 50,000 Points Later… And NO.... I Still Haven’t Forgiven LeBron for ‘The DecisionLeBron James just became the first player in NBA history to score 50,000 points—and whether you love him or not, that’s an incredible achievement. In this episode, I break down what this milestone really means, the insane pressure he’s faced since he was 16, and how he’s stayed addicted to the process for 22 years. I’ll also talk about what we can all learn from his growth mindset, why I’ve always respected Kobe’s work ethic, and—of course—why The Decision still makes me sick.
2025-03-0619 min
Everyday Mike#17 Mickey Jordan, the Zen Dominican Sports Star, and the Food That Fueled the ResetIn this episode, I’m stepping away from youth sports (just for a bit) to share a rare, kid-free getaway with my wife, Melissa. From braving Disney’s coldest three days in 30 years to soaking up the sun (and some competitive water sports) in the Dominican Republic, this trip was all about resetting, reconnecting, and, of course, eating. Lots of eating. Tune in for some laughs, some food talk, and maybe even a lesson or two about the importance of taking a break. #MickeyJordan #ZenDominican #FueledByFood
2025-03-0319 min
Everyday Mike#16 Super Bowl, Super Food and of Course Puppy, Monkey, Baby - w/ Adam AndersonAdam Anderson is back on Everyday Mike for a fun Super Bowl recap! We break down the biggest moments from the game, key coaching decisions, and, of course, the all-important Super Bowl food spread. But we’re not stopping there—somehow, some way, we’re bringing the Super-est of the Bowls back to youth sports. What lessons can young athletes and coaches take from the big game? How does team culture, preparation, and embracing your role make a difference at every level? Tune in for a mix of football talk, coaching insights, and plenty of fun!
2025-02-1341 min
Everyday Mike#15 Cool Dad Walking Club with Adam AndersonIn this episode of Everyday Mike, Coach Mike talks with Adam Anderson, a former high school multi-sport standout and college football player. Now a broadcaster and sports professional, Adam shares stories from his playing days, lessons from coaching and parenting, and insights on balancing family, work, and a love for the game.
2025-01-211h 16
Everyday Mike#14 A Holiday Tradition: Lessons from the Waverly TournamentIn this Episode, I reflect on the timeless memories and lessons from the Waverly Holiday Tournament, the longest-running small-school basketball tournament in Illinois.
2024-12-2910 min
Everyday Mike#13 - The Wild Origins of Nike: Just Do It, Steve Prefontaine, and a Waffle IronIn this episode of Everyday Mike, we uncover the fascinating backstory of Nike’s iconic slogan, Just Do It, and how a convicted outlaw, a legendary runner, and a creative coach changed sports history. We explore the legacy of Steve Prefontaine, the innovation of the waffle iron shoe, and the lessons they hold for parents, coaches, and athletes. Packed with inspiration and actionable tips, this episode will challenge you to stop waiting and start doing.
Listen now and take the first step toward your next goal!
2024-12-1308 min
Everyday MikeEp #12 Organized PracticeIn this special episode of Everyday Mike, Coach Mike welcomes his very first guest, Coach Kate! A record-setting goalkeeper and veteran youth coach with over 15 years of experience, Coach Kate shares her journey as an athlete and coach.
Together, they discuss the evolution of youth sports, their shared experiences coaching a talented team, and the importance of fostering growth in young athletes. Packed with stories and insights, this episode is a must-listen for parents, coaches, and players alike!
2024-12-0234 min
Everyday MikeEp#11 That's a Technical Foul!Coach Mike recounts his first technical foul, fueled by passion, hoops memories, and a love for the game.
2024-11-2308 min
Everyday MikeEp#10 CoachIn this episode of Everyday Mike, Coach Mike explores the true role of a coach as a guide for growth and character. From the origins of "coach" to insights from legends like John Wooden and Herb Brooks, he shares stories and action items for coaches, parents, and athletes to build trust, inspire belief, and impact lives beyond the game.
2024-11-0710 min
Everyday MikeEp#9 InkyIn this Everyday Mike episode, Coach Mike explores Inky Johnson’s question, "If you knew the result, would it change how hard you work?" Using coaching stories and examples, he inspires athletes, parents, and coaches to embrace hard work and growth beyond the end result.
2024-10-2810 min
Everyday MikeEp#8 Zone 2We're diving into Zone 2 running and how it’s more than just a workout method. It’s a game-changer for building endurance both on the track and in your relationships.
2024-10-0310 min
Everyday MikeFull Circle #7Often life comes full circle. Listen to a trip down memory lane from my first coaching experience to my youth showing livestock and all the lessons along the way - hard work , growth, and life often allows us to come right back to where we start.
2024-09-0608 min
Everyday MikeFamily Reset Ep#6Every year we unplug from chasing and coaching kids to get away on a non-sports family vacation. It's a great opportunity to reconnect as a family and prepare for the upcoming seasons.
2024-08-0409 min
The Cultworthy Cinema PodcastTHE CULTWORTHY EP #167 -VINTAGE EPISODE "TOD BROWNING'S FREAKS"This week I bring you a vintage episode from nearly 3 years ago - when I discusses the film FREAKS - directed by TOD BROWNING- with my good friend Mike Jones! When trapeze artist Cleopatra (Olga Baclanova) learns that circus midget Hans (Harry Earles) has an inheritance, she marries the lovesick, diminutive performer, all the while planning to steal his fortune and run off with her lover, strong man Hercules (Henry Victor). When Hans' friends and fellow performers discover what is going on, they band together and carry out a brutal revenge that leaves Hercules and Cleopatra knowing...
2024-08-011h 01
Everyday MikeAll about the Benjamins Ep#5Listen in as I talk about the rising cost of youth sports in America.
2024-07-2308 min
Everyday MikeDriving the kids away? Ep#4Listen in as I talk about how negative coaching can chase kids away from the sports they love.
2024-07-0507 min
Everyday MikeEpisode # 3 All I do is Win !!Listen in and hear how the "Cash Cow" of American youth sports is driving athletes of all ages away from sports by the overemphasis of Winning.
2024-06-2611 min
Everyday MikeThe Great Sports Debate Episode #2To specialize or not to Specialize? Many parents, coaches clubs and organizations have different opinions.
2024-06-1910 min
Everyday MikeEpisode #1 Trailer70 % of Kids drop out of youth sport by age 13. Lets look into some of the reasons why. #YoungAthletes #LetThemPlay #KeepPlaying #YouthCoach
2024-06-1807 min
The Mike McFeely MessThe McFeely Mess: Forum reporter Tasha Carvell on Native American group's lawsuit against Washington Commanders and other topicsForum reporter Tasha Carvell joins host Mike McFeely to discuss some of her recent stories, including one that involves a North Dakota judge throwing out a lawsuit a Native American group with tenuous ties to the state filed against the NFL's Washington Commanders. Tasha also gives an update on former North Dakotan Rockne Earles, who had his charges amped up for his role in the January 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol. She also touches on the latest news involving the federal search warrant granted in the Ray Holmberg case. It's a very newsy podcast.
2024-04-0942 min