My Mentors

The Dog Days of February

Ted Valentine shares insights on officiating basketball games in the intense month of February. He emphasizes the need for controlled intensity, vigilance, and understanding player motivation. The key takeaways are to maintain controlled intensity and adjudicate the rules effectively. Takeaways * Controlled Intensity * Adjudicate the Rules

My Mentors

TV Teddy reflects on the profound influence of his mentors, Jim Burr and Tim Higgins, on his career and character. He shares anecdotes that highlight the impact of these mentors and expresses deep gratitude for their role in shaping him as a person and professional. Takeaways * The importance of mentors in shaping one's career and character * The influence of distinct personalities on professional development Chapters * 00:00 The Influence of Mentors

Navigating the Duke-Carolina Rivalry

You have to ref this game like it's a playground — not a high school match — if you want it to flow. Drop a 🔥 if you've ever had to loosen up the rules in a heated game. Most refs know the rules, but sometimes you gotta let the players play, especially in a rivalry. Sharp judgment over strict calls keeps the game alive. It’s about managing the flow, not just following every rule to the letter. When you get too caught up blowing your whistle, you're killing the vibe and the energy. Ever been in a game where you had to choose between calling a foul or letting it slide? Balancing rule enforcement with letting the game breathe is what separates good refs from great ones. Getting that flow right keeps everyone engaged and the game exciting. Worth thinking about. What’s your go-to move in high-stakes gameplay? #RefLife #GameManagement #BasketballTips #PlayfulReferee

Navigating the Duke-Carolina Rivalry

How to master officiating high-stakes games without losing your cool Ever felt overwhelmed when officiating a game with intense players and high stakes? Drop a 🙌 if you’ve ever felt the pressure before stepping in Here’s the secret: patience is your best tool. Slow down your whistle, watch for rhythm, speed, and balance — call a foul only when truly needed. Letting players develop and finish their plays—not rushing to blow the whistle—keeps the game fair and reduces unnecessary fouls. I’ve officiated 10 of these high-pressure games, and trust me, staying calm makes all the difference. You don’t have to be perfect on your first try — just stay present and trust the process. Worth thinking about. Would you add anything from your experience? #RefLife #BasketballSecrets #GameOn

Black History Month

This Black History Month, the TV-Teddy Podcast honors the legacy, the culture, and the voices that continue to shape the world. It’s reflection, recognition, and real conversation. Stay tuned in and celebrate Black excellence. We will talk about it with you.