Life & Work with Channing Chasten of Chandler

Today we’d like to introduce you to Channing Chasten

Hi Channing, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I was born in Cleveland, Ohio, and found the game of soccer at the age of 3. From that moment on, I developed a dream to play college soccer at The Ohio State University, where my mom had attended. Growing up, I always had a different mindset from my peers—one that was goal-oriented and driven. I even wrote my “why” above my bed to remind myself every night and morning of my purpose and the reason I was pursuing my goals.

When I was 10, my family moved to Queen Creek, Arizona. I didn’t want to leave Ohio—I loved it there. But eventually, I embraced Arizona and met some amazing people who shaped my journey. I attended Hamilton High School, played for the Arizona Arsenal Soccer Club. As a freshman, I made the varsity soccer team and scored the game-tying goal in the state championship, helping us win the state title. I went on to be a two-time captain, the leading goal scorer multiple years, and an All-American during my time at Hamilton. I will always be proud to call myself a “Husky for life.”

At the end of my freshman year, I started receiving interest from colleges. By the beginning of my junior year, I had committed to my dream school, Ohio State. However, five months later, the coaching staff retired, and I had to decommit and explore other options. Fortunately, the new coaching staff contacted me, watched my games in person, and I recommitted to Ohio State in my senior year.

I went on to play for Ohio State from 2019-2022, playing as a true freshman in 2019. I graduated in 2023 with a degree in Communication Analysis and Engagement. During my time at Ohio State, I was also a part of an organization called Redefining Athletic Standards, which provided a space for Black male student-athletes to connect, learn, and give back to the community. Additionally, I was recognized on the All-Big Ten Academic Team multiple times.

My experience at Ohio State was incredible. Playing at my dream school exceeded all my expectations, but after my sophomore year, I almost transferred because I wasn’t happy with not starting consistently. However, I returned with a renewed mindset, determined not to give up. That decision paid off, and I had my best season as a junior, which led to me signing a professional contract with Phoenix Rising the following year.

Playing for Phoenix Rising, in a place I had called home for half of my life, was an opportunity I will forever be grateful for. Coach Rick Schantz and his staff played a huge role in my development. I made my professional debut in the first game of the season against Monterey Bay and had a strong season, but unfortunately, my journey was cut short due to a hip injury. After recovering, I played half of the next season before both Phoenix Rising and I mutually agreed to part ways. I am thankful for my time there and the lessons I learned.

After reflecting on my journey during my injury and departure from Rising, I found myself asking, “What is my purpose?” That’s when my mom suggested writing a book—a thought she had planted in my mind while I was in college. Initially, I was resistant to the idea, but after taking time to reflect and relax, I realized I wanted to make a difference and leave a lasting legacy. That’s when The 1% Kid was born.

The 1% Kid is a book that teaches kids that with the right mindset and characteristics, they can achieve anything they put their minds to. We focus on the importance of practice, perseverance, and patience, with a central theme of getting 1% better every day.

Now, I’m a speaker, workshop facilitator, and the owner of my own soccer training company, 1% Kid Academy. I’m also in the process of starting a nonprofit focused on soccer, literacy, and mindset for youth. I’m passionate about making an impact, and I’m always excited about what’s coming next. Whether you’re a company looking to motivate your employees to hit their goals or a school in need of an author visit or motivational session, I’m here to help. I truly believe in the power of getting 1% better every day, and I’m excited to continue this journey of growth and impact.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
One of the earliest challenges I faced was when I moved from Ohio to Arizona at the age of 10. I didn’t want to leave Ohio because I loved it there, and I was going to miss my friends and family. At the time, most of my family was still in Ohio, and being a big family guy, it was tough to adjust. However, over time, I started to embrace Arizona and met some amazing people who became a huge part of my journey.

Another struggle I encountered was when I started playing soccer in both Ohio and Arizona. I often faced ridicule and bullying from others because soccer wasn’t the “traditional” sport that many of my peers thought I should be playing. This pushed me to work even harder to prove myself and stand out, not because of what I looked like, but for my determination to be the best and my skills.

One of the hardest challenges I faced happened during the spring of my senior year of high school. My father had a stroke while we were walking our dog in the neighborhood. It was a devastating experience, especially seeing him go through such a traumatic time. He spent over two months in the ICU and had a long road to recovery. At the time, I was preparing to go to Ohio State, but I thought about staying home to help my family during that difficult period. My dad wasn’t able to attend my high school graduation or any of my games during my freshman season at Ohio State. I struggled with that, and there were many nights in my dorm room when I cried and thought about coming home.

In my college career, another obstacle came when I was unhappy with my playing time and entered the transfer portal at the end of my sophomore season. But I decided to come back to Ohio State and embrace the 1% better mindset. I worked harder and gave everything I had, which led to my best season yet during my junior year, which resulted in me signing professionally shortly after.

In the professional ranks, I encountered significant challenges as well. I had to undergo hip surgery for a torn labrum and hip impingement, which set me back physically. Shortly after recovering, I faced a coaching change. The coach who had recruited me was let go, and the new coaching staff didn’t give me the same opportunities to regain my full strength. Despite these setbacks, I learned that everything happens for a reason. This experience ultimately led me to where I am now, where I can give back and make a difference in other people’s lives.

All these challenges have helped me grow and have shaped the person I am today. They’ve given me the resilience to keep pushing forward no matter the adversity I face. And I hope that my story can inspire others to keep going, no matter what obstacles they encounter.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a children’s author, motivational speaker, creator, and former professional soccer player, now dedicated to helping individuals and organizations unlock their full potential. My work centers around high performance, resilience, and mindset—principles that drive success in sports, business, and life.

I specialize in developing goal-oriented mindsets, fostering leadership, and equipping people with the tools to navigate adversity. Through my keynotes, workshops, and consulting, I work with corporations, schools, and organizations to instill the 1% better every day philosophy—a proven approach that leads to sustained growth and peak performance.

My book, The 1% Kid, and the principles I teach have resonated not just with youth but also with professionals and executives looking to strengthen their leadership, motivation, and adaptability. In today’s fast-paced and competitive world, the ability to stay focused, embrace challenges, and consistently improve is essential for long-term success. I bring real-world experience in discipline, goal-setting, and overcoming setbacks—qualities that translate directly to leadership, corporate culture, and team dynamics.

What I’m most proud of is the impact I’ve made on individuals and organizations. Whether it’s inspiring a room full of executives to embrace a growth mindset, helping a company refine its approach to resilience and team performance, or motivating young people to push past self-doubt, I tailor my message to meet the needs of any audience.

What sets me apart is my unique journey—from competing at the highest levels of soccer to navigating career transitions, overcoming personal and professional adversity, and now helping others do the same. I know firsthand what it takes to break through barriers, stay committed to a vision, and achieve excellence. I also want to be a servant to others and find ways that I can help my community and giveback.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
There are so many people who deserve credit for my journey, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without them. First and foremost, my parents and my sister have been my biggest supporters from day one. They never once doubted my dreams, no matter how ambitious they seemed. Whether it was driving me to games, cheering me on, or making sacrifices to help me reach my goals, their unwavering belief in me has been invaluable. To this day, they continue to be the first ones to support me in every endeavor.

Beyond my immediate family, I owe so much to my extended family as well. Their encouragement has been constant, and their belief in me has pushed me to keep striving for more. My late great-grandmother, Mama, was one of my biggest inspirations—she always told me to aim higher and never settle, and I carry that mindset with me every day.

I also give credit to God—my faith has been my foundation through every challenge and triumph. I believe that my talents and creativity are gifts, and I’m grateful every day for the opportunities I’ve been given.

My friends have played a huge role in my journey as well. There are too many to name, but they know who they are. Whether it was offering encouragement during tough times or just being there to listen, their support has meant the world to me. I will always be grateful to them.

In my soccer career, several coaches shaped me into the player and person I am today. David Belfort, my Arizona Arsenal and Hamilton High School assistant coach, was one of the first to truly push me beyond my limits, even when I didn’t always want to hear it. Coach Marquette at Hamilton gave me my first real opportunity, believing in me as a freshman and allowing me to compete at a high level from the start. At Ohio State, my teammates became my brothers. We endured grueling 5 a.m. workouts, fought through challenges together, and shared incredible highs on the field. I’m forever grateful for them and my coaches—Coach Mais, Matt Foldesy, Travis Morris, Chad Barson, and Corey—all of whom gave me a chance and helped shape my path.

On the professional side, Rick Schantz gave me my first pro contract, believing in me as a 21-year-old stepping into the next level. He played a major role in my development, and I will always appreciate that opportunity.

Outside of soccer, I’m grateful for the Creighton Elementary School District and the Creighton Community Foundation. They were among the first organizations to believe in me and my business, giving me opportunities to speak, inspire, and grow. Jay Mann and Jeff Boles, in particular, have been instrumental in supporting and spreading the word about my work. Their faith in me means the world.

I also want to acknowledge my brothers at Redefining Athletic Standards (RAS)—a community that has given me lifelong friendships and a shared mission to push boundaries and make an impact.

There are so many others who have helped me along the way—mentors, teammates, friends, and supporters—who I haven’t named here but who have played a role in shaping my journey. To every person who has ever encouraged, supported, or believed in me: Thank you. I am forever grateful, and I will continue working to repay the faith you’ve shown in me.

Pricing:

• The 1% Kid booko: $10.99 and $20.99
• Author Visits: $350
• Speaking Engagements: Ask for Pricing
• Workshops: Ask for Pricing
• The 1% Kid Academy: Ask for Pricing

Contact Info:

• Website: https://theonepercentkid.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/channingchasten
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/channing-chasten-7a09151b8
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@the1percentkid
• Other: https://www.instagram.com/the1percentkid