Seeing the Next Level Changes Everything

Seeing the Next Level Changes Everything

In Part 2 of this conversation, Ian and Jonathan dig deeper into exposure, access, and perspective in youth sports.

Jonathan explains why seeing the next level in person — middle school, college, or professional — can motivate kids without pressure, while also giving parents a clearer understanding of what elite performance actually looks like. They unpack the financial realities of club sports, travel, and training, and why “free” programs still come with hidden costs that many families can’t afford.

The episode closes with powerful reflections on the coaches and mentors who shaped Jonathan’s life — reminders that long-term impact rarely comes from wins, rankings, or trophies.

🧠 Key Talking Points

Why seeing the next level up motivates kids naturally

The importance of watching sports live — not just on TV

How context changes our perception of talent

The physical and mental gap between youth and college athletes

Financial barriers that limit access to elite pathways

Why “free” youth sports still aren’t truly free

How geography impacts opportunity in the U.S.

The hidden costs of national leagues and travel

Why winning isn’t a fair measure of development

The lifelong influence of coaches who invest beyond results

💬 Quotes from Jonathan Corone

“Until we see it up close, we don’t realize how big the gap really is.”

“Context changes everything.”

“Even if club fees are free, someone still has to get the kid there.”

“Is winning really a fair way to judge success?”

“Opportunity depends more on access than talent.”

“There are more good people in sports than toxic ones — they’re just quieter.”

“Gratitude is the thing I’ve learned the most from great leaders.”

“The people who show up matter more than the results.”

🔗 Connect with Jonathan Corone

🌐 Website: healthysportsparents.com

🎙️ Podcast: open.spotify.com/show/1dpgJQoownxZfnliaiqIJv

📸 Instagram: www.instagram.com/healthysportsparents/

👍 Facebook: www.facebook.com/HealthySportsParents/

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Mentioned in this episode:

TeamPlayr: Find and join the perfect youth
soccer team

TeamPlayr

Reeplayer: Greater access to footage gives every young athlete the opportunity to develop and be seen. Reeplayer is committed to making footage accessible to teams, families, and athletes of all backgrounds.

Reeplayer

Soccer Innovations: Award-Winning Soccer Equipment & Accessories

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