08/31/2026
Some people enter your life for a season. Others show up at exactly the moment you need them most and their impact lasts a lifetime.
In Episode 90 of The FocalFlip Podcast, we sit down with Ken Chevalier for a conversation about purpose, perseverance, mentorship, grief, community, and what it truly means to show up for another human being.
Ken takes us through his upbringing and the journey that led him to basketball officiating. At the age of 25, Ken made the decision to go to college to pursue his goal of becoming an official. But that same chapter of his life was also marked by tremendous loss when his father passed away. Ken opens up about the grief, mental health challenges, and personal growth that followed.
We also discuss parenting, pursuing education, coaching basketball at Simon Kenton, Dixie Heights High School, and other programs, as well as overcoming surgeries, hospitalizations, and the physical and emotional challenges that life can unexpectedly place in our path.
At the center of Ken's story is his belief in training up our youth, rebuilding our communities, and helping young people discover opportunity and purpose. Through his work, his coaching, and the scholarship funds created and supported by Ken and his wife, their commitment to providing for underprivileged youth has created an impact that extends far beyond the basketball court.
Then comes a surprise guest.
Cy Egger, a 2002 graduate of Dixie Heights High School, joins the conversation to share a story that perfectly illustrates the impact one person can have on another.
When Cy was in high school and going through an extremely difficult time, Ken made the decision to take him under his wing. Cy came to live with Ken and his son, Kyle. What may have started as a brief period of guardianship, basketball, and support eventually grew into a lifelong mentor-and-mentee relationship built on trust, guidance, love, and kindness.
Cy shares the importance of Ken's presence in his life and even plays a voicemail from 2020, when Ken called simply to check on him following Cy's su***de attempt.
In one of the most emotional moments of the episode, Cy credits Ken with helping save his life.
This episode is a powerful reminder that you never truly know what someone else is going through and sometimes the greatest thing you can do is simply be there.
No expectation of anything in return.
Just love.
Just kindness.
Just showing up.
Because the impact of a phone call, a conversation, an open door, or a simple act of compassion can reach further than you could ever imagine.
🎙️ Episode 90 of The FocalFlip Podcast featuring Ken Chevalier and surprise guest Cy Egger is available now.
Some people enter your life for a season. Others show up at exactly...
