Courtside Forever

Jen Cohen Crompton of the Say It In Sports podcast | Episode 24

On this episode of Courtside Forever, I sat down with Jen Cohen Crompton—a Philly mom, entrepreneur, fitness coach, and host of the Say It In Sports podcast. Jen started her show to amplify stories in youth and women’s sports, and we dove into why that mission matters more than ever.

From committing to fitness as a way to honor her dad to crossing the finish line of an Ironman, Jen’s journey is all about resilience, community, and purpose. We talked about how the pandemic reminded us of the importance of movement, how women fans often connect through the stories behind the game, and why small, consistent changes can lead to big life shifts.

Jen’s also an author—her children’s book encourages kids to get moving and feel included, and she’s a big believer that modeling healthy habits starts at home. We also talked about parenting in sports: the pressure to win, the role of coaches, and why being a good teammate is just as important as scoring points.

Whether you're a parent on the sidelines, a fan in the stands, or someone just trying to move more and live better, Jen’s story is a reminder that sports can teach us way more than just how to play the game—they can teach us how to show up for each other.

Jen's podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/say-it-in-sports/id1794616974

Jen's children's book: https://a.co/d/5X4ZCPP

Jen's 90 Day Challenge: https://a.co/d/hrJl4MQ

 

Tanya Hayles - Storyteller and founder of Black Moms Connection | Episode 23

In this episode, I sit down with Tanya Hayles—a community builder, digital strategist, and former Digital Strategy and Development Manager for Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment—for a conversation that goes way beyond the scoreboard.

We talk about what it really takes to build community through sports, the behind-the-scenes work that often goes unnoticed, and the emotional toll of trades—not just on the players, but their families too. Tanya also shares the unique challenges Black mothers face, the rising costs of youth sports, and what it means to build a legacy that lasts.

If you’ve ever been part of a team, raised a kid in sports, or just love the game, this one’s for you.

In this episode, we get into:

• Why community is everything—on and off the court

• The sacrifices parents make for their kids’ sports dreams

• The reality of player trades and how they impact families

• The importance of representation in both media and motherhood

• What it looks like to build a legacy through intentional work

This one’s honest, reflective, and full of real talk. I’m grateful for Tanya’s voice in this space—and I hope it encourages you to look at sports, parenting, and purpose a little differently.

Visit Black Moms Connection: https://www.blackmomsconnection.com/

Watch Tanya's TEDx Talk: https://youtu.be/IAxjdSDXvCc?si=sKF83JDoAd8rzpLb

 

Don’t Tell Me You’re a Girl Dad — Show Me | Episode 22

In today's episode of Courtside Forever, I unpack what it really means to be a "girl dad" beyond the hashtags and the merchandise. Sparked by the immense popularity of the #girldad movement after the tragic loss of Kobe and Gianna Bryant, I'm taking a hard look at whether we're truly living up to this title.

I open up about my own experience as a father to two wonderful daughters. When I first heard the news of each daughter's upcoming arrival, I faced a mix of joy and the typical cliché reactions from friends and family. But beyond the personal celebrations and challenges, I delve into how society at large treats our daughters and the disparities they face, such as the employment challenges heightened by the pandemic, the erosion of reproductive rights, and the persistence of gender-based violence.

This episode critically examines how the concept of being a "girl dad" has been commercialized while many of the systemic issues that disadvantage women remain unaddressed. I challenge fellow dads to look beyond the surface—beyond wearing a themed sweatshirt or posting a social media update.

Through personal reflections and insights from writers like Adam Bulger, who outlines what daughters need to hear from their fathers, I share practical and impactful ways to truly empower and uplift our daughters. It’s about more than just compliments; it’s about engaging in the tough conversations, dismantling outdated stereotypes, and advocating for their rights and opportunities.

Join me as I call on all dads to actively contribute to a world where our daughters are not only safe but are valued and respected as equals. Being a "girl dad" should be a commitment to lifelong advocacy and action, ensuring our daughters can thrive in a world that truly cherishes them. This isn’t just about being proud fathers—it’s about being active allies.

You can find the article this podcast is based on here: https://ryanrucker.com/writing/dont-tell-me-youre-a-girl-dad-show-me

An April Fool’s Day to Remember, Courtesy of the 1997 New York Knicks | Episode 21

Happy April Fool’s Day! Our family loves to play practical jokes, so I figured today would be a great time to invite my girls on to the podcast to listen to me record this episode.

In 1997, the New York Knicks pulled off one of my favorite pranks of all time, convincing their audience the team had signed legendary Knicks player Walt “Clyde” Frazier to a 10-day contract. However, the prank was my second favorite of the day.

Later that night, my mom and I pulled off my all-time favorite prank on my unsuspecting Grandparents. It was a story I wrote two years ago, but for this episode, I tell it again, this time with my daughters by my side. 

So enjoy this episode of Courtside Forever! If the audio is a little off, that’s because I used one microphone and my girls are obviously not familiar with them. But most importantly, we had a great time recording so I hope you enjoy.

20 Practical Tips for New Dads | Episode 20

Becoming a new dad is one of the most exciting, terrifying, exhausting, and meaningful moments of your life. But let’s be honest—it’s also hard. The expectations, the pressure, the shift in your identity… it all hits differently when you’re holding your newborn and thinking, “I’ve gotta raise this tiny human?”

In this milestone 20th episode of Courtside Forever, we’re flipping the script on the outdated “just figure it out” mentality. I’m giving you 20 real, practical pieces of advice for new dads—tips that are honest, relatable, and designed to help you show up as the dad your kid needs and the partner your family deserves.

We cover everything from managing sleep schedules and emotional support, to checking your benefits and keeping your identity intact. You’ll learn why it’s okay to cry, how to bond at your own pace, the importance of asking questions, and why every new dad needs a “Treat Yo’ Self” moment.

Whether you're taking the night shift or learning how to swaddle, this episode is a reminder that perfection isn’t required—presence is. And yes, I even squeeze in a few Parks and Rec references for good measure.

So to the new dads out there, or anyone supporting one—this episode is for you. Because, as parents, we’ve got the best seats in the house. Let’s enjoy them.

Should LeBron James Be Criticized for Helping His Son? | Episode 19

LeBron James recently had a heated exchange with ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith, telling him to “keep my son out of this.” The moment quickly went viral, sparking renewed debate about whether Bronny James deserved to be drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers or if he is simply benefiting from his father’s influence. But this conversation goes beyond basketball—it’s about nepotism, parental support, and what it really means to help the next generation succeed.

In this episode of Courtside Forever, we break down the controversy and ask the tough questions. If you had the power to open doors for your child, would you? Where is the line between providing support and giving unfair advantages? Why does nepotism seem to be accepted in industries like Hollywood, politics, and business but scrutinized in professional sports?

What you can expect in this episode:

• A deep dive into the differences between nepotism and legitimate opportunity and why people react differently depending on the industry.
• An honest look at Bronny James' journey to the NBA—has he truly earned his spot, or is he riding his father’s legacy?
• The impact of generational success, from family businesses to sports dynasties, and why mentorship and exposure often lead to better outcomes.
• A conversation about fatherhood, legacy, and the responsibilities of parents who have the power to shape their children’s futures.

Some critics believe Bronny James is only in the NBA because of his last name. Others see it as a historic moment—an all-time great paving the way for his son. No matter which side you’re on, this is a discussion worth having.

Join me in this conversation and decide for yourself.

Read my article titled "You Call It Nepotism. I Call It Fatherhood."

With Love, Ryan | Episode 18

On this episode of Courtside Forever, we’re talking about joy—the kind of joy that shouldn’t be controversial but somehow still is.

I recently watched With Love, Meghan, the new Netflix show featuring Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, as she hosts friends, cooks, and gardens in Montecito. It’s the kind of peaceful, feel-good lifestyle show we’ve seen for years with Martha Stewart, Rachael Ray, and Joanna Gaines. And yet, the backlash Meghan has received? It’s different. It’s louder. And let’s be honest—it’s rooted in something deeper.

This episode dives into why the internet seems to hate joy, how Black women—especially Black moms—are scrutinized for simply existing in peace, and why we struggle to let people enjoy life without attaching some grander meaning to it.

We’ll talk about the viral tweet from a woman who dared to enjoy morning coffee with her husband in their garden—and the absurd backlash that followed. We’ll explore the internet’s pattern of building people up just to tear them down, from everyday folks like Daisey and Michael the Librarian to someone as high-profile as Meghan Markle. And we’ll ask the real question: Why do people love wealth and celebrity culture until the person enjoying it is a Black woman?

But most importantly, this episode is about reclaiming joy. Whether it's making ice cream, watching a cozy cooking show, or tending to an arugula garden, we all deserve simple pleasures—without the internet ruining them.

So, what’s something small and joyful in your life that you refuse to let the internet take from you? Let’s talk about it.

Jerica Williams of HER: Power Productions | Episode 17

Basketball has always been bigger than the game, and few people embody that more than Jerica Williams. From a stellar career in high school with multiple championships to earning a full ride at UCLA, her story is already the stuff of legends. But she didn’t stop there. Last season, Jerica made history as the only active female coach in Division I Men’s College Basketball, proving once again that she’s built different.

Beyond the court, she’s a mentor, a leader, and a powerhouse in storytelling. She’s the founder of HER: Power Productions, a platform dedicated to amplifying the voices of young women, and trust me—her work is next level. If you haven’t checked out her videos yet, do yourself a favor. The storytelling? Top-tier. The production quality? Insane.

In this episode, we get into it all—her love for the game, what makes a great coach, and why positive coaching matters now more than ever. We also talk about motherhood and ambition, including the moment she walked across the stage at San Diego State with her newborn son in her arms. And of course, I had to ask about the advice she has for parents navigating their kids' athletic goals.

Jerica’s journey is all about breaking barriers, leading with authenticity, and unlocking greatness—not just in herself, but in everyone around her. Whether you’re a parent, a coach, or just love a good hoop story, you don’t want to miss this one.

Listen now and let’s get Courtside Forever—because as parents, we’ve got the best seats in the house - let's enjoy them.

Visit https://www.herpower.life to learn about Jerica's work.

https://www.courtsideforever.com

Dads, Please Keep Your Personal Pursuits | Episode 16

"Say goodbye to the next 18 years of your life!"

That was one of the first things someone said to me when I told them my wife and I were expecting our first child. And while I laughed it off, the more I thought about it, the more I realized how messed up that mindset is.

Because here’s the truth—becoming a dad will absolutely change your life. But it won’t ruin it. If anything, it’ll make your life more meaningful, more exciting, and more fulfilling than you ever thought possible.

I’ve always been someone with passions. I love basketball, I love writing, I love creating. And when my first daughter was born, I started hearing all the warnings:

"You won’t have time for that anymore."
"Your hobbies are gonna take a backseat."
"You better get your fun in now before the baby comes."

But here I am, years later, still doing the things I love—just differently. I learned how to adapt my hobbies instead of abandoning them, how to communicate better with my wife, and how to reject the idea that being a dad means losing myself.

And that’s what we’re talking about in today’s episode of Courtside Forever.

Here’s what I’m diving into:
✔️ The "Negative Ned" mentality and why so many men think fatherhood is the end of their personal freedom
✔️ How I found ways to keep my passions alive while being an engaged, present dad
✔️ The power of communication and planning (aka, how not to be an idiot)
✔️ Why resentment happens when dads don’t carve out time for themselves—and how to avoid it
✔️ Actionable steps you can take to balance fatherhood and self-care

Fatherhood isn’t about giving up who you are—it’s about evolving into the best version of yourself. Yeah, my life looks different now. I don’t have endless free time. I don’t spend entire weekends on the couch playing 2K. But you know what? I wouldn’t trade what I have now for anything.

So if you’re a new dad, an expecting dad, or even just a guy wondering if he’ll ever get to do the things he loves again—this episode is for you.

Let’s talk about it—because as parents, we’ve got the best seats in the house - let's enjoy them.

www.courtsideforever.com

www.ryanrucker.com

Lindsey Konchar aka Your Favorite Financial Therapist | Episode 15

In this episode of Courtside Forever, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Lindsey Konchar, a licensed mental health professional, certified financial coach, and author of I Got 99 Coping Skills and Being a B**** Ain’t One. Lindsey specializes in financial therapy and helps her clients navigate their money challenges without shame. As a mom of two and host of the Financial Self Care podcast, she brings a wealth of experience—both personal and professional—to our conversation.

We dive into some really important topics like the link between mental health and finances, why so many parents struggle with shame when it comes to getting their financial lives back on track, and how emotional intelligence can play a big role in financial success.

Lindsey shares some valuable advice on how parents can teach their kids about money, while also being more present in their lives, even when the daily grind can feel overwhelming.

I also ask Lindsey about her own journey, including her battle with postpartum mental illness and the steps she took to prioritize her well-being. Plus, we talk about how couples can avoid fighting over money and—just for fun—how Lindsey would advise Joey Tribbiani from Friends on his disastrous financial decisions.

If you’re looking for actionable tips to improve both your financial and emotional well-being, this episode is for you!

Visit Lindsey at https://financialselfcareblog.com/

https://www.courtsideforever.com