The 1% Kid with Channing Chasten

The 1% Kid with Channing Chasten

From Reading Inspires by Reading Is Fundamental by Reading Is Fundamental

June 16, 2026 · 19 min · Episode 36

About this episode

Channing Chasten discusses his journey as a former athlete and author, emphasizing the importance of literacy and personal growth.

In this episode host Dr. Erin Bailey sits down with Channing Chasten — former Ohio State and professional soccer player, author of The 1% Kid , and founder of the 1% Kid Foundation. Channing shares how growing up with a teacher mom, a love of Percy Jackson, and a determination to get "1% better every day" shaped both his athletic and academic journey. He opens up about navigating the demands of Division I athletics, the power of saying no, and why third-grade reading proficiency is a statistic every parent and educator should know. Channing also dives into the work of his nonprofit, which combines soccer, literacy, and mindset workshops to inspire young people — especially reluctant readers — to discover the joy of books. About Channing Chasten: Channing Chasten, Executive Director, The 1% Kid Foundation Channing Chasten is a children’s author, speaker, and former professional soccer player dedicated to empowering the next generation. A graduate of The Ohio State University, where he played Division I soccer, Channing went on to play professionally for Phoenix Rising. He is the author of The 1% Kid and the founder of the 1% Kid Foundation, a student-centered, literacy-focused…

People in this episode

Host: Dr. Erin Bailey

Guest: Channing Chasten

Topics covered

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: The 1% Kid Foundation

Products: The 1% Kid

Places: Ohio State, Phoenix Rising

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