The Good in Sports

Episode 33: Melissa Harper (CEO/Co-founder of Good Sports)

In this episode, I sit down with Melissa Harper from Good Sports, an organization dedicated to breaking down financial barriers in youth sports. If you’ve ever wondered why so many kids are being priced out of athletics, this conversation is a must-listen.

🔹 From 500 Basketballs to $110 Million in Donations – What started as a U-Haul full of equipment has turned into a national movement helping 10 million kids gain access to sports.

🔹 The Mission: Equity in Youth Sports – Good Sports is working to level the playing field, ensuring that all kids—not just those from wealthy families—have access to the gear and opportunities they need.

🔹 The Hidden Barriers Keeping Kids Out – It’s not always about travel teams or club fees. Some kids can’t play simply because they don’t have a sports bra, cleats, or basic equipment to practice.

🔹 Even Fundraising Isn’t Equal – Not every family has time to sell wrapping paper or the means to write a check to cover costs. The fundraising gap only widens the divide in youth sports.

🔹 The Cost of Sports Is Driving Families Away – Good Sports conducted a survey, and the results are alarming:

• 90% of parents say sports lead to positive outcomes for their kids.
• But 75% have considered pulling their kids from sports due to financial stress.

🔹 Not Just a Low-Income Issue – Families across all socioeconomic levels are feeling the pressure. The rising costs of sports aren’t just affecting underserved communities anymore.

🔹 The Decline of Local Sports & PE – With parks & rec budgets cut and PE programs disappearing, the only options left are expensive "elite" clubs—which aren’t just for elite athletes anymore.

🔹 How to Take Action – Change starts at the local level. Even small efforts can have a massive impact—but we have to act NOW before more kids miss out on the life-changing benefits of sports.

🔹 And of course… MORE HOT TAKES!

This is an urgent conversation about the future of youth sports—and what we can do to fix it. Don't miss this one!