Youth Inc., a digital media network focused on youth sports content, has announced the launch of Season Two of its Youth Inc. Podcast on October 30. This development follows a successful $4.5 million seed funding round in 2024, led by Will Ventures, highlighting the company's growth trajectory in the youth sports sector.
The podcast, which first aired in 2022, quickly became a cornerstone for the youth sports community, featuring interviews with legendary athletes such as Jerry Rice, Russell Wilson, Jennie Finch, and Dale Earnhardt Jr. With over 400,000 downloads and millions of impressions, the podcast's initial success has set the stage for an even more impactful second season.
Co-founded by Greg Olsen, an Emmy Award-winning NFL analyst and Pro Bowl tight end, alongside former Fanatics executive Ryan Baise and Audacy, Inc.'s Tim Murphy, Youth Inc. is carving out a niche as an essential resource for youth sports. The inclusion of Dr. Michael Gervais, a renowned sports psychologist, as co-host for Season Two, further emphasizes the podcast's dedication to offering actionable advice and insights for young athletes, their families, and coaches.
Season Two will delve into pressing issues such as building resilience, handling competitive stress, and utilizing mindset training for sustained achievement. Supported by Founding Partners Players Health and MaxU, the six-episode season is poised to provide valuable resources for mental performance and risk management in youth sports.
Beyond the podcast, Youth Inc. is preparing to introduce a comprehensive commerce platform in early 2025. Spearheaded by Ryan Baise, this platform aims to deliver tailored products and services for the youth sports community, potentially revolutionizing access to essential resources.
The expansion of Youth Inc. signifies a pivotal moment for the youth sports industry. By merging expert-led content with a specialized commerce platform, the company is establishing itself as a key player in addressing the needs of young athletes. This holistic approach may not only enhance the resources available to the youth sports community but also influence the broader landscape of youth sports participation and development.
