Two & Through w/ Justin Tinsley

It’s the first guest episode of Higher Valleys, and we had to kick things off with family—literally. Journalist, author, ESPN personality, and proud dad Justin Tinsley joins us to talk fatherhood, legacy, and what it means to try to figure it all out while building something bigger than yourself.

From vasectomy stories to navigating dad guilt, from the legacy of icons like Biggie, Nipsey, and Kobe to the little moments that actually define fatherhood—this conversation is real, reflective, and full of laughs. We swap stories about raising kids, chasing careers, managing marriages, and why two kids is the sweet spot for man-to-man defense (because three? That’s zone coverage, and it gets tricky).

We also get into Justin’s storytelling journey—from growing up without a father to building a career that centers Black culture, community, and stories that live beyond the headlines.

If you’re trying to show up for your kids, chase your purpose, and leave your mark on the world—this one’s for you.

Key Topics Covered:

✔️ The real reason Justin never played football (you’ll laugh)

✔️ Zone defense vs. man-to-man… in the house (parenting strategy breakdown)

✔️ The vasectomy convo every dad eventually faces

✔️ Dad guilt while chasing your purpose — how to deal with it

✔️ Growing up without a father & the lessons it taught Justin

✔️ Behind the scenes of Justin’s ESPN journey & King of Crenshaw

✔️ The legacy of Nipsey Hussle & Biggie — how it hits different as a dad

✔️ Storytelling as immortality — why our words outlive us

✔️ How to stay present with your kids, even when life pulls you away

✔️ Marriage maintenance: why parenting can’t come at the expense of your partnership

✔️ Leaving a timestamp for your kids to look back on — the power of conversations like this

Quotable Moments:

“There’s no zone coverage at home — the gaps will get exposed. Man-to-man defense only.” — Spencer

“Legacy isn’t just for the world to see. It’s how your kids see you… today, and years from now.” — Jelani

“The most important thing I can do is be present when I’m allowed to be present… and when I’m not, go do what I gotta do so I can get back.” — Justin Tinsley

“Storytelling gives us a sense of immortality. It’s how we make sure the marathon really continues.” — Justin Tinsley

Connect with Justin:

• Instagram/Twitter: @JustinTinsley
• Written Work: Anscape
• Podcast: King of Crenshaw (available wherever you get your podcasts)
• Books: It Was All A Dream: Biggie and the World That Made Him

Want More Higher Valleys?

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• Have a question or a dad story? Leave us a voicemail at Speak Pipe

Honor the peaks. Learn from the valleys. We’ll catch you on the next climb.

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