26 – Sports, Faith & Fun with KJ McCarty

Sports, faith & fun with KJ McCarty takes center stage in this dynamic episode of The SLIDE Podcast. Host Coach Aaron is joined by co-host Big E (Easton Close) as they sit down with KJ, a standout multi-sport athlete from Alabama. Known for his mic’d-up Instagram reels and unshakable focus, KJ opens up about balancing football, baseball, and basketball—all while building a podcast with his dad focused on youth sports, faith, and family.

Faith, Fun, and the Mic’d-Up Journey

KJ’s journey in youth sports is anything but typical. From highlight-reel grand slams to calling plays as a quarterback, he shares how each sport teaches him something new. However, it’s his faith that keeps him grounded. “You’re playing the game not just to win,” he says, “but to have fun and live out your purpose.” That purpose shines through in his podcast, the KJ and Jay Podcast, where he and his father explore youth athletics through the lens of family and faith.

Lessons in Leadership and Being Coachable

Throughout the episode, KJ emphasizes the value of being coachable and lifting others up. He discusses how challenging it can be to let go of perfectionism and how his dad helps remind him that failure is a natural part of growth. When asked what makes a good teammate, his answer is simple but powerful: supporting others even when you’re not at your best. From double-selly celebrations to battling through injury, KJ keeps it real and relatable.

Balancing Sports, Media, and Real Life

Beyond the field and court, KJ talks about downtime in Alabama—fishing, visiting water parks, and recovering from a UCL strain. He also shares his big goals for the future, with hopes of playing football professionally while keeping baseball as a backup. His walkout song? “Unstoppable” by Sia—an anthem that fits the energy and message of this episode perfectly.

Check out KJ’s mic’d-up content and faith-driven sports podcast on Instagram by searching “KJ McCarty.” Learn more about the KJ and Jay Podcast: KJ and Jay Youth Sports Podcast on Apple Listen to a similar SLIDE Podcast episode: Faith, Focus, and Fire: Kingston’s Code

Quote from KJ McCarty:

“You’re playing a sport not just for winning—but to have fun and live out your purpose.”

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