In this episode of The Good Service Podcast, Joseph Dunham sits down with Michael Newton, a dynamic coach, innovator, and youth mentor, who’s merging the worlds of esports, education, and empowerment through his gaming lounge, Ethlete Lab Academy. Michael opens up about his journey from NCAA basketball player to coaching in the NBA 2K League with the Golden State Warriors, and his latest role managing operations for the Cleveland Cavaliers' Cavs Legion esports team.
But Michael didn’t stop courtside. Through Ethlete Lab Academy, he’s building a safe and exciting tech hub for young people to explore gaming, sharpen digital skills, and even launch careers in tech. In this wide-ranging conversation, you’ll hear about the evolving landscape of youth mentorship, how gaming is opening new doors in underserved communities, and why Michael believes tech and sports can be the ultimate duo for the next generation.Whether it’s esports tournaments, coding workshops, or leadership development, he’s unlocking doors for the next generation.
If you're a parent, a gamer, an educator, or just someone curious about how gaming can make an impact, this episode is for you.
In this episode, Michael shares:
🏀 How sports and tech can team up to drive youth empowerment
🎮 What it means to be a coach in both life and gaming
🥇 The challenges and wins of building a tech-forward nonprofit from the ground up
👾 Why access and representation in gaming spaces matter now more than ever
🕹️ How Ethlete Lab Academy is redefining the pipeline from gamer to professional & education
Whether you're a parent, gamer, educator, or leader in youth programming, this episode will leave you inspired to rethink what’s possible when gaming meets purpose, mentorship and a servant leadership mentality + community building.
🎧 Tune in and learn how Ethlete Lab Academy is helping youth go from gamers to game-changers.
Social Media & Contact Information:
Website: www.ethletelabacademy.com
LinkedIn: Athlete Lab Academy & Michael Newton
Instagram: @ethletelabacademy & @mikecheck1__2
I do not own the rights to this song.
The Light by Common
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Instagram: @thegoodservicepodcast
LinkedIn: The Good Service Podcast
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