View Details

Send us Fan Mail

A 14-year-old can have a loose arm, quick feet, and a bat that makes every coach look up and still get pushed out of baseball by one question: “How much is this going to cost by the end of the summer?” That’s the gut-check driving this conversation, because the cost of youth baseball has become more than team dues. It’s uniforms, gate fees, composite bats, turf shoes, gas, hotel blocks, missed work, and the kind of math families shouldn’t have to do just to keep a kid playing.

I’m Coach Ken Carpenter, and I’m not here to dunk on travel baseball. I’ve coached it, I’ve coached high school baseball, and I know why families chase better competition. But we’ve built a pay-to-play economy that quietly decides who gets the reps, the coaching, and the development runway. That doesn’t just hit working-class families and inner-city communities; it squeezes the middle class too, especially in homes with multiple kids where parents can only afford one calendar-sport commitment. The result shows up everywhere: high school rosters that reflect purchasing power, college recruiting pipelines with holes when showcases become the only map, and rising attrition when the year-round grind turns joy into burnout.

We end with four practical “buckets” for fixing the problem: publish one all-in price before tryouts, redirect a slice of event revenue into local scholarships, keep pre-high school travel regional to kill the hotel bill, and build free or at-cost evaluation options like regional ID days supported by video and high school coach recommendations. None of it is painless, which is exactly why it hasn’t happened yet, but the talent hasn’t disappeared. It’s waiting at home.

If you care about keeping baseball fun, accessible, and competitive, listen now, then subscribe, share the show with a coach or parent, and leave a review so more people can find it.

Support the show

• Follow: X | @BCUPod / IG @baseballcoachesunplugged
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

You can watch a high school baseball game and think it’s all about the swings, the calls, and the final score. Then you talk to a head coach and realize the real game is happening in a hundred small moments: preparation, communication, trust, and the ability to make a decision and live with it when one pitch changes everything.

We’re joined by Jonathan Gelnar, head baseball coach at Claremore High School in Oklahoma and host of the Ahead of the Curve podcast, for a candid conversation about high school baseball coaching and player development. We get into what fans don’t see in tight games, how a staff prepares, and why reflection matters even when you do “everything right” and still lose. We also talk about the daily challenge of developing the complete player while chasing wins, and how leaders inside the roster can raise the standard when players coach players with the right tone and purpose.

From there, we go practical. Jonathan explains how he structures competitive on-field batting practice to create live reps that teach defense and baserunning, not just hitting. We cover simple incentives that reinforce winning behaviors, how to think about analytics versus trusting your gut, and how to get buy-in for bunting as a real tool in the toolbox. You’ll also hear detailed baserunning teaching points, third base coaching decision rules, and an honest breakdown of handling playing-time conflict and parent pressure with empathy and administrative support.

If you coach high school baseball, travel baseball, or just want better practice planning and clearer player roles, this one is loaded with actionable ideas. Subscribe, share with a coach who needs it, and leave a review so more coaches can find the show.

Support the show

• Follow: X | @BCUPod / IG @baseballcoachesunplugged
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

A two mile an hour ride on a hospital gurney can do what 27 years in a baseball dugout never could: tell you, without mercy, what actually matters. We step away from signs, stats, and strategy and talk as a coach, a father, and a husband who had to stare down an eight-hour surgery and hear the words “50% failure rate.” When your world shrinks to the ceiling above you, the scoreboard disappears and the real highlight reel starts playing.

We share a powerful image from that hallway: ceiling tiles turning into life moments, from a game-winning hit to a wedding day to a quiet dugout conversation with a struggling kid. That’s the heart of high school baseball culture done right. If you’re a coach building a program, a parent navigating youth sports emotions, or a player trying to survive the grind, this perspective shift changes how you define pressure, leadership, and success.

We also talk about resilience through my son’s story, from a severe club feet diagnosis to fighting through surgeries and doubt to reach a college baseball mound. And we close with a surprising teacher: a loyal dog who kept the score 0-0 every day, reminding us that presence and love outlast every win-loss record. If you care about player development, mental toughness, and creating a healthier sports experience, this one will stick with you. Subscribe, share this with a coach or parent who needs it, and leave a review with the moment that hit you hardest.

Support the show

• Follow: X | @BCUPod / IG @baseballcoachesunplugged
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

Division I baseball isn’t just "more intense"—it’s a daily war of attrition where a single bad day can cost your players an entire week of progress. On this episode of Baseball Coaches Unplugged, two-way standout Keegan Holmstrom pulls back the curtain on the brutal daily discipline required to survive and dominate at the collegiate level.

Keegan breaks down the exact blue-collar routine he uses to balance elite lifting, nutrition, and skill work. He also shares raw insight into navigating the chaos of the modern transfer portal era, dealing with sudden coaching changes, gray-shirting, and grinding through the mental hurdles of elbow surgery.

For the coaches looking for a tactical edge, we dive deep into the Xs and Os. Keegan walks us through Wright State’s exact game-week routine, their approach to pitch-shape simulation, and why executing the bunt remains a devastating offensive weapon. This is a masterclass in building a "why not us" culture that allows mid-majors to roll into Power Five stadiums and expect a sweep.

Coaches, pass this one along to your roster. Inside this episode, we unpack:

• The Two-Way Blueprint: The scheduling reality your high school recruits aren’t prepared for.
• Portal & Culture Realities: Managing players through coaching transitions, gray-shirting, and roster battles.
• Locker Room Chemistry: How to foster fierce internal competition without letting ego poison team culture.
• The Wright State Routine: A breakdown of their early hitting, film nights, and game-week prep.
• In-Game Adjustments: Tactical breathwork, heart-rate control, and flush-it mentalities after bad at-bats.

Hit Subscribe, leave a review with your biggest takeaway, and share this episode with a coach or player who needs to elevate their standard.

Support the show

• Follow: X | @BCUPod / IG @baseballcoachesunplugged
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

Your son makes a top travel or select team and suddenly everything feels urgent. Tryouts, fees, rankings, showcases, guest players, tournament schedules, recruiting promises. We slow the moment down and ask the question that actually protects families: are you buying real player development, or are you buying a uniform and a calendar?

We sit down with Bobby Minor, a former D1 player and longtime coach who now helps baseball parents make smarter decisions from Little League through high school baseball and into college baseball. We talk about the hidden “most expensive” part of youth travel baseball: uninformed choices made out of fear, comparison, and pressure. Bobby breaks down early bloomers versus late bloomers, why so many kids quit by 14, and how work ethic and patience beat hype almost every time.

We also get practical. What should you ask a travel team before you commit? Bobby explains why guest player policies matter, how the true all-in cost can double once uniforms, facility fees, hotels, and gate charges hit, and what a real development plan should look like when a player struggles. Then we tackle arm care and pitcher overuse on weekends, plus the truth about Perfect Game and PBR rankings as marketing tools versus real recruiting signals.

If you want clearer priorities, fewer regrets, and a healthier path through travel baseball, hit play, subscribe, share this with a baseball parent, and leave a quick review so more families can find it.

Support the show

• Follow: X | @BCUPod / IG @baseballcoachesunplugged
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

A lot of families make the same travel baseball mistake every July: they chase the loudest logo, the flashiest graphics, and the team that “wins the weekend,” then wonder why their player stops improving. I’m Coach Ken Carpenter, and I’m pulling the curtain back on the trophy team versus development team debate so you can make a smarter choice for 2027.

We talk about the red flags that show up fast in youth baseball and travel ball, starting with roster size. If a program carries 16 to 18 players on a summer roster, the playing time math does not work, and reps are everything for high school performance and college recruiting. I also get blunt about what happens when winning Sunday becomes the priority, especially for pitchers. Arm care, workload decisions, and a clear throwing plan matter more than any plastic trophy.

Then we build a real checklist for finding a development team: a fall and winter plan that supports strength training, coaches who welcome failure as part of growth, and a schedule built around scout attended exposure tournaments instead of expensive trips with no recruiters in sight. Most important, we cover the human factor: the coach running the program. A coach with a real recruiting network and the ability to personally call D2, D3, and JUCO staffs can open doors that a generic online profile never will, especially in the transfer portal era.

If you’re heading into 2027 tryouts, stop chasing hype and start choosing development. Subscribe, leave a review, and share this with a parent or player who needs a clearer path.

Support the show

• Follow: X | @BCUPod / IG @baseballcoachesunplugged
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

The biggest mistake high school players make is treating college baseball like a status contest instead of a development decision. Riley Bender just finished his career at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor after time at the Division I level, and he tells the truth most families do not hear early enough: playing time, relationships, and the right environment can matter more than the label on the jersey when you are trying to grow as a player and a person.

We dig into JUCO versus D1, how the transfer portal changes roster building, and why so many programs now lean on transfers and junior college players instead of slow building freshmen for four years. Riley also shares what it feels like to compete with your own teammates, how culture differs across levels, and why the weight room is no longer optional if you want to keep up with modern college baseball standards. If you are a smaller player, we talk about what can still make you stand out: speed, baseball IQ, and a clear competitive edge.

The conversation goes deeper than mechanics. Riley breaks down the mental side of baseball, including expectations, negative self talk, and a simple shift that helped him perform: detach the process from the results and bet on yourself daily. We also hit travel baseball and recruiting exposure, plus what players actually want from coaches: belief, trust, and enough autonomy to play free when the lights come on.

If you coach, parent, or play the game, this one will sharpen how you think about college baseball recruiting, player development, and the realities of the portal era. Subscribe, share this with a player who needs it, and leave a review with the one decision you would change about your own recruiting journey.

Support the show

• Follow: X | @BCUPod / IG @baseballcoachesunplugged
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

What does it really mean to build a “fundamentally sound” baseball program?

In this episode, we sit down with Eddie Hull, Head Baseball Coach at Charlotte Catholic High School in North Carolina, whose teams have earned a reputation for consistency, toughness, and attention to detail. That reputation doesn’t happen by accident. Coach Hull breaks down the everyday standards that drive his program, starting with two clear non‑negotiables: play fast and compete every pitch.

We dive into what “playing fast” actually looks like inside a high school program—how tempo, urgency, and preparation keep players mentally locked in and how pace of play can quietly become a competitive advantage.

Coach Hull also walks us through the player development model at Charlotte Catholic, including the strength and conditioning culture he builds from the moment freshmen enter the program. He explains why year‑round lifting matters, how strength translates directly to speed and durability, and how a stronger, more physical roster expands what you can demand from players on the field.

The conversation also covers youth development and why successful camps aren’t just about drills—they’re about creating an environment where young players stay engaged, have fun, and build real baseball habits that last.

Beyond the high school season, Coach Hull shares insights from managing the Queen City Corn Dogs, a summer collegiate team in the Old North State League. He discusses the challenges of balancing development and competition with college athletes, as well as what he’s learned about travel baseball, year‑round training, and how coaches and parents can help players avoid burnout through smarter scheduling and intentional recovery.

We also get into the details of in‑game decision making, including:
• How hitters can adjust when facing elite velocity
• Using pitching machines to simulate high‑level pitching when your staff can’t replicate 95 mph
• What a coach should actually say during a mound visit when the game is on the line

Whether you’re a coach, player, or parent trying to build a better development plan, this conversation offers practical insights you can apply immediately.

Subscribe to the show, share this episode with a coaching buddy, and leave a quick review.

One question to think about: What standard in your program do you refuse to compromise on?

Support the show

• Follow: X | @BCUPod / IG @baseballcoachesunplugged
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

A winning program can be built on talent, but it’s sustained by something harder to measure: trust, standards, and relationships that outlive the final box score. I’m joined by recently retired West Virginia University head baseball coach Randy Mazey and his wife Amanda for a candid, funny, and sometimes heavy conversation about what it really takes to build champions and keep your family steady while you do it.

Randy breaks down how WVU baseball went from being on the brink to a top-tier college baseball program the whole state rallies around, and why he never wanted his “success” defined only by wins. Amanda gives the perspective most coaches never hear out loud: what it’s like to sit in the stands as “the coach’s wife,” how to handle criticism without feeding it, and how a supportive spouse helps shape culture from the background. We also dig into recruiting today, including the transfer portal, shifting rules, and how families can stay calm and focused on player development.

Then we hit a topic every parent and coach has an opinion on: travel baseball. The Mazeys lay out a simple test for whether travel ball is working, plus what’s broken when weekend results matter more than practice reps. Finally, they share the powerful Team Whammer story and how their son Weston’s near-fatal on-field injury led to a foundation that helps families with rehab and recovery costs. If you care about coaching, leadership, and developing people not just players, this one stays with you.

Subscribe, share this with a coach or parent who needs it, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway.

Support the show

• Follow: X | @BCUPod / IG @baseballcoachesunplugged
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

College baseball used to give players time to grow up. That window is closing fast, and Troy University head baseball coach Skylar Meade doesn’t sugarcoat why. With transfer portal mobility, rising investment in facilities, and the pressure to win now, coaches have to make quicker decisions and players have to show they can thrive early, not just hang around and develop someday.

We talk through the real recruiting priorities he’s using to build a high-level roster: the “outlier” tools that jump off the field, the maturity and discipline that keep you eligible and improving, and the importance of finding the right fit for a program’s culture and community. Meade also lays out what happens when a player enters the transfer portal, including the uncomfortable truth that not everyone finds a new home, and why evaluating environment matters as much as chasing the biggest name.

Along the way, he explains Troy’s identity around pure joy and energy without crossing the line into disrespect, walks us through a detailed midweek game day schedule, and shares a leadership lesson he’s still working on: teaching a talented team how to handle success when the spotlight hits. If you care about college baseball recruiting, Division I player development, strength and conditioning, and the mindset it takes to last, this is a practical listen.

Subscribe for more conversations with baseball coaches, share this with a player or parent navigating recruiting, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway. What part of the modern college baseball landscape feels most confusing right now?

Support the show

• Follow: X | @BCUPod / IG @baseballcoachesunplugged
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

Preseason rankings feel nice until you realize you start playing the games and now you have to earn everything again. Denison University associate head coach and pitching coach Ryne Romick joins us to explain how a championship-level program keeps its edge, rebuilds identity, and stays hungry while on their way to a national championship.
We get specific on what actually plays for pitchers at the college level: why “strikes win” never stops being true, how fastball life and fastball command can make or break development, and why the best freshmen often help the team sooner by shrinking their role and ditching their ego. Ryne also pulls back the curtain on college baseball recruiting, including the reality that coaches may only see a short snapshot at a travel tournament, plus the intangibles that matter most when projecting who will thrive in a demanding program.

We also go big-picture on Division I vs Division III baseball, the depth and experience differences, and why “fit” beats chasing labels. Ryan shares why strength training is the biggest readiness gap he sees when pitchers step on campus, and he gives an honest take on the sacrifice and family support required to coach at a high level. If you coach, play, or parent a pitcher, you’ll leave with clearer recruiting priorities and a more grounded plan for getting better.

Subscribe for the rest of our champions series, share this with a coach or player who needs it, and please leave a review and rating so more baseball coaches can find the show.

Support the show

• Follow: X | @BCUPod / IG @baseballcoachesunplugged
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

Most teams chase talent. The teams that last build an environment that makes talent behave like a teammate.

We sit down with Denison University head baseball coach Mike Deegan to talk about what actually drives winning in college baseball, especially at the Division III level where development, academics, and leadership all collide. We get specific about recruiting strategy: why measurable tools are only the starting point, how “fit” shows up in values and family alignment, and why the right people move an entire program forward faster than a single standout player ever could. Mike also shares what he learned inside the Marietta baseball machine, and why the “secret” is usually just sustained work, standards, and sacrifice.

From there, we dig into the heart of culture building and people development. Mike lays out the idea that most behavior is shaped by the environment, which changes how you think about buy-in, team-first stars, and long-term accountability. We also get practical about goals and performance: why goals are common, why sacrifice is not, and how Kaizen (continuous improvement) keeps a program grounded when it shifts from being the hunter to being the hunted.

We close with a powerful reframing of failure, reflection, and competitiveness, including a pickup basketball story that turns leadership into something you can feel. If you care about college baseball coaching, team culture, leadership training, and building a winning program the right way, this conversation will stick with you. Subscribe, share this with a coach or player who needs it, and leave a review with the biggest lesson you’re taking into your next season.

Support the show

• Follow: X | @BCUPod / IG @baseballcoachesunplugged
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

A head coaching interview can be won or lost before you ever shake a hand, and Granville Gehris proves why. We talk with the First Flight High School Head Baseball coach about how he earns trust quickly by showing a real plan: a portfolio slideshow with photos, a clear facility roadmap, and specific culture standards he can actually explain and execute. If you’re applying for a high school head coach job, this is a practical guide to separating yourself from a stack of resumes.

We also get into what happens after you’re hired. Granville shares his first priorities when taking over a new baseball program, why fast “program signal” upgrades like equipment and the field can create instant momentum, and how he pulls the community into fundraising, donations, and even grant writing to raise the ceiling for the entire athletic department. Along the way, we connect culture to academics, leadership, and daily expectations that turn a team into a program kids are proud to join.

On the field, the details matter: competitive practices, pace-of-play standards, time BP that feels like a game, and accountability systems that keep players learning without getting crushed. We also hit player development and college baseball preparation, plus a blunt conversation about travel baseball workload, arm health, pitch counts, long toss, and the risks of chasing max effort without enough research or recovery.

Subscribe for more high school baseball coaching lessons, share this with a coach who wants the next job, and leave a review with the biggest change you’d make to build a winning culture.

Support the show

• Follow: X | @BCUPod / IG @baseballcoachesunplugged
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

One game can erase months of work, and that reality changes how coaches think. We’re joined by Chris Stewart, head baseball coach at Eastern High School in Ohio and host of the Coaching Life Podcast, just hours before his team plays for a district championship. With the single elimination state tournament underway, we talk about what actually holds up when every pitch feels like it weighs a ton: simple plans, calm decisions, and a team that stays itself under pressure.

Chris shares a coaching mistake that still follows him, a postseason pitching sequence that looked smart on paper and blew up in real time. We dig into the messy truth behind pitch counts, managing arms for “the next game,” and the domino effect one extra-inning night can create. If you coach high school baseball, Legion, or travel ball, this is the kind of story that makes you rethink how you define risk, leverage, and trust in the moment.

We also go personal on one of the toughest roles in sports: coaching your own son. Chris explains why the middle ground is the hardest place to live and how clear communication and consistent standards are the only way through. From there, we zoom out into youth baseball culture, parent behavior, and why perspective changes everything when you have a vested interest in your kid’s at-bats.

Finally, we tackle player development and the overcoaching problem: why great mechanics aren’t enough, how hitters need approach and decision-making, and what “compete” looks like when the pitcher is trying to get you out. If you care about building better players and a stronger program, subscribe, share the show with another coach, and leave us a review.

Support the show

• Follow: X | @BCUPod / IG @baseballcoachesunplugged
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

If baseball has more technology than ever, why are so many players training harder and developing slower? I’m Coach Ken Carpenter, and I want to dig into a problem I keep hearing after more than 200 conversations with high school, college, and pro coaches: we’re starting to confuse what we can measure with what we truly understand. Exit velocity, launch angle, bat speed, pitch velocity, and spin rate are useful, but when they become the whole plan, young athletes end up chasing numbers instead of building repeatable skills.

I pull a key lesson from College Hall of Fame coach Ray Birmingham: coach the player based on the player’s body type. A 5'9" second baseman trying to swing like Aaron Judge is not “modern,” it’s a mismatch. The best baseball player development is individualized coaching. It starts with how an athlete moves, creates force, handles timing, responds to fatigue, and competes when conditions are not perfect.

We also talk about what rarely gets marketed in youth baseball and travel ball: durability. Everyone shares clips of 100 mph fastballs and monster home runs, but where’s the training plan for staying healthy, repeating a delivery for years, and performing late in the season? The recruiting funnel is tight, and it doesn’t make sense to force every player to train like a tiny group of outliers at the top of the sport.

If you coach high school baseball, run a travel program, or you’re a parent trying to help your player, this one is a reset. Subscribe to Baseball Coaches Unplugged, share it with a coach, and leave a review if it helps. What’s one trend you want to stop copying right now?

Support the show

• Follow: X | @BCUPod / IG @baseballcoachesunplugged
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

What do college coaches really look for when they walk up to a field and why do so many talented players are losing out on opportunities? We talk with Ray Birmingham, the winningest coach in University of New Mexico and WAC history and a longtime builder of winning programs, about the traits that separate good from great when the pressure rises and the season drags on.

Ray breaks down how he builds culture with an entrepreneur mindset: doing more with less, earning buy in, and protecting the clubhouse from “me guys” who can wreck a team. From recruiting conversations to everyday habits, he explains why competitiveness, character, and being the same player in May that you were in February matters more than a flashy line against bad pitching. If you coach high school baseball, travel ball, junior college, or college baseball, these are the tells you can actually use.

We also get deep into hitting philosophy and player development. Ray shares why he teaches a short swing, why many hitters are overcoached, and how angle hitting with machines can train plate coverage on the edges where great pitchers live. He makes the case for the junior college baseball path as a development accelerator, then caps it off with a story that perfectly captures baseball grit and chaos.

If you got value from this one, subscribe, share it with a coach or parent, and leave a review so more baseball coaches can find the show.

Support the show

• Follow: X | @BCUPod / IG @baseballcoachesunplugged
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

• Follow: X | @BCUPod / IG @baseballcoachesunplugged
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

High school baseball seasons rarely fall apart because of talent. More often, it’s the challenges that show up during the season that quietly pull a team off track.

So we asked four experienced coaches one question every coach eventually faces: What is the toughest in-season challenge, and what actually helps when it happens?

Coach Jeff Boulware explains how off‑the‑field distractions—prom, school breaks, graduation events, and the chaos of spring—can slowly derail a team’s focus, and how returning to preseason goals and leadership training helps players stay locked in.

Coach Jeff Mielcarek dives into the reality of time management, sharing how the hidden workload of running a program—paperwork, facilities, fundraising, and planning—can drain a staff’s energy, and the simple weekly system he uses to stay ahead.

Coach James Grandy tackles one of the toughest problems coaches see in the dugout: players losing confidence. He explains how positive coaching and a return to fundamentals can help athletes break out of slumps and regain belief.

And Coach Jimmy Fillingeri discusses the constant tension every coach feels: developing players while still trying to win games, and how to design practices that solve game problems without abandoning the basics.

Four coaches. Four different challenges. And practical ideas you can use with your own team this season.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball coaching tips, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: X | @BCUPod / IG @baseballcoachesunplugged
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

Two hundred episodes sounds like a number until you realize what it represents: 200 chances to sit down with real coaches and talk about what actually builds players. I’m Coach Ken Carpenter, and this milestone is my thank-you note to every coach listening on the way to practice, after a tough loss, or while looking for a better way forward.

The biggest surprise from interviewing coaches across travel ball, high school baseball, college baseball, and beyond is how often the same themes repeat. Great coaching starts with relationships. Players don’t buy into your system until they believe you care about them. Development beats winning when you zoom out far enough, because daily improvement in skill work, practice habits, and mental performance creates the kind of team that can handle pressure. And real team culture isn’t created in a speech; it’s built through consistency, clear expectations, and coaches showing up the same way every day.

I also share the five lessons that keep coming back after 200 conversations: relationships first, long-term player development, consistency builds culture, great coaches keep learning, and baseball teaches life. Along the way, I read listener reviews, celebrate what this community has become, and recognize our sponsor, the Netting Professionals, who support programs one facility at a time.

If you get value from Baseball Coaches Unplugged, subscribe, share it with another coach, and leave a rating and review so more coaches can find these baseball coaching tips and player development strategies.

Support the show

• Follow: X | @BCUPod / IG @baseballcoachesunplugged
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

The radar gun is loud, but it is not the whole story. I sit down with Crown College recruiting coordinator and pitching coach Ryan Vondracek, a former undersized high school lefty who barely touched 80 and still carved out a standout college pitching career. If you coach or play in a world obsessed with velocity, this conversation is a reset that brings the focus back to pitchability, conviction, and a plan you can actually execute on the mound.

We get practical on what helps “non-gas” pitchers succeed: building a repeatable routine, getting ahead in counts, throwing multiple pitches for strikes, and learning how to work off misses. Ryan also shares how nutrition, recovery, and training helped him add meaningful velo over time, plus why he hates the radar gun in many bullpen settings because it can create tension and wreck fluidity. Along the way we talk modern player development and recruiting, including what he looks for at Crown College and why mental toughness can be a better predictor than a single number.

Then the story goes deeper. Ryan opens up about early-life adversity, long years of therapy, and how faith, self-talk, and the people in your circle shape confidence under pressure. If you are a high school pitcher, a parent, or a baseball coach trying to guide players through the transfer portal era and the velocity race, you will leave with clear coaching cues and a bigger perspective on what “development” really means. Subscribe, share this with a coach who needs it, and leave a review so more players hear that there is more than one path to college baseball.

Support the show

• Follow: X | @BCUPod / IG @baseballcoachesunplugged
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

The majors look glamorous from the stands, but the real game is the pressure, the travel, and the personalities you share a clubhouse with. I’m joined by former MLB outfielder and longtime minor league manager Brad Komminsk, and he takes me straight into the moments most fans never hear about: the shock of going from high school baseball to pro ball, the constant need to prove you belong, and the whiplash of getting moved from city to city on trades and waivers.

Brad walks through his first call-up and what it’s like to face a veteran like Fernando Valenzuela when you’re the new guy and the strike zone doesn’t feel even. From there we get into pure clubhouse legend: Cal Ripken Jr. wrestling before home games, Billy Ripken’s prankster streak, and the day Ricky Henderson literally called time so a bat boy could bring out his Oakley sunglasses before a record-setting moment. It’s funny, it’s unreal, and it also shows how confidence, routine, and identity show up at the highest level of Major League Baseball.

We also revisit one of baseball’s most infamous flashpoints, the 1984 Braves vs Padres bench-clearing brawl, then shift into what baseball coaching can learn from it: why managers argue umpires, how players try to protect themselves in chaos, and what leadership looks like when emotions run hot. Brad finishes with hard-earned lessons from managing in minor league baseball, spotting future stars, and the mindset that survives a long season: leave it all on the field and move on fast.

If you love MLB stories, baseball coaching, player development, and the mental toughness side of the game, subscribe, share this with a baseball friend, and leave a review so more coaches can find the show.

Support the show

• Follow: X | @BCUPod / IG @baseballcoachesunplugged
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

Your smoothest pregame infielder turns into a statue when the game starts, and you can almost see the thoughts rushing in. That flip isn’t random, and it isn’t a mystery flaw in his mechanics. It’s FOMU: the fear of messing up. I walk through why today’s Gen Z and Gen Alpha players can feel like every ground ball is an identity test, a travel ball investment audit, or a potential viral moment, and how that pressure quietly pushes them into survival mode.

Then I tell a dugout story that nails what many of us do without realizing it: coaching with “don’t” statements. “Whatever you do, don’t…” sounds helpful, but it often forces the brain to rehearse the exact failure we’re trying to avoid. We unpack how that language slows athletes down, makes them rigid, and turns at-bats and defensive reps into mistake-avoidance instead of competition. If you care about player development, mental performance, and game-day confidence, this is one of the fastest places to level up your coaching.

From there, I give you the shift that changes everything: the paradox of permission. You’ll hear how to reward aggressive intent without accepting lazy play, how to become a pressure release valve instead of a pressure cooker, and how to replace “don’t be late” with cues like “damage the fastball.” I also give you a practical challenge for this week’s practices: ask your tightest player to make three aggressive errors in ten minutes and watch what happens to his feet and hands.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

If you found this helpful, subscribe, share it with a coach on your staff, and leave a review so more baseball coaches can build freer, faster athletes.

Support the show

• Follow: X | @BCUPod / IG @baseballcoachesunplugged
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

You can tell within the first few pitches whether a high school baseball team has been coached with intention. It's not on the scoreboard — it's in how they carry themselves, communicate on the field, and respond when things go sideways.

Dell Lever, head coach at Chapin High School in South Carolina, has built his program around four non-negotiables: play hard, play the right way, be an unbelievable teammate, and compete every single pitch. In this episode, he breaks down exactly what that looks like in practice — and in games.

We get into the nuts and bolts of high school coaching strategy: how much weight to give scouting reports, how to keep players from falling into the comparison trap fueled by social media and travel ball, and why Dell would rather obsess over clean defense, throwing strikes, and competitive at-bats than scheme around an opponent. He also makes the case for scheduling the toughest competition you can find early in the season — not to prove a point, but to expose gaps fast and build a standard your team can actually measure itself against.

Then we get into the practice toolbox, and this is where it gets really good. Dell walks through his Eagle Defense Drill for rapid-fire situational reps, the PFP Olympics that puts pitcher fielding practice on a clock, and a competitive batting practice format that rewards hard contact and smart execution. We also dig into bunting and the slash — two weapons most high school teams leave on the shelf — and how Dell teaches bunt defense in short, repeatable segments that actually transfer to game situations.

And we wrap with the culture piece: what it means to trust your players instead of handcuffing them, how to keep the game genuinely fun, and where the line is between celebrating with your teammates and showing up the other team.

If you coach high school baseball and you want more energy in your practices, better carry-over to games, and a sharper team identity — this episode is for you. Subscribe, share it with a coach who needs it, and leave a review so more coaches can find the show.

Support the show

• Follow: X | @BCUPod / IG @baseballcoachesunplugged
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

Last year, one state lost nearly a third of its umpires and not to retirement. They simply stopped showing up. I’m Coach Ken Carpenter, and I’m putting you in the plate shoes for a few minutes so you can feel what your local officials feel on a Tuesday afternoon after an eight-hour workday: the pressure, the noise, and the moments that decide whether a 19-year-old umpire ever comes back.

From the umpire’s perspective, the fix is not complicated, but it does require leadership. I walk through how the home-plate meeting sets the tone for the entire game, why treating officials like coworkers changes the temperature instantly, and how the “ask don’t tell” principle helps you get clarity without turning a close call into a showdown. We also get practical about rule interpretation and when it’s smart to ask that a partner be consulted.

Then we talk about the third team: the stands. In 2026, every parent has a camera and an opinion, but coaches are the only people with the credibility to shut down fence abuse before it drives young sports officials out for good. Finally, I bring it back to what matters most in high school baseball coaching and player development: your players are watching how you handle being wrong, how you handle authority, and how you handle adversity. That lesson lasts longer than any single call.

If you want better games and more officials willing to work them, subscribe, share this with your staff and booster club, and leave a review so more coaches hear it. What’s one small change you’ll make at your next home-plate meeting?

Support the show

• Follow: X | @BCUPod / IG @baseballcoachesunplugged
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

The swing that wins on a showcase doesn’t always win with two strikes and a runner on second. We sat down with Cloverleaf head coach Aaron DeBord to unpack how to build hitters who make better in-game decisions, how to train under pressure, and how to align high school and travel programs so players stop living between two philosophies and start thriving.

We start with trust: Aaron meets seniors first, invites the whole community—not just parents—and then backs it up with consistent actions, from weight room structure to daily positive messages. That culture shift unlocks buy-in and sharper focus when it matters. From there, we dig into what actually translates for hitters: hunting the right pitch by count, using launch angle and exit velocity as tools rather than goals, and adjusting the swing to the moment to move runners and win innings.

On the tactical side, Aaron breaks down his aggressive identity—taking the extra 90, first-to-third pressure, and live baserunning reps that force outfielders and catchers to execute. His upgrade to the 21-outs drill, swapping sides within eight seconds after errors, injects game tempo and accountability. We also tackle the hardest dugout call in baseball: when to pull your ace in a must-win. Aaron shares real tournament moments, why he empowers his pitching coach, and how trusting a pitcher’s honesty can guide the decision. The takeaway is simple and hard: pitching drives outcomes, defense must make routine plays routine, and you can manufacture enough offense if you compete in the zone.

We close by rethinking parent relationships with transparency—open rubrics, open practices, open lines—so families become allies, not obstacles. Along the way, Aaron’s Mount Rushmore nods to Ken Griffey, Manny Ramirez, Tony Gwynn, and the chess master Greg Maddux, reminding us that feel, discipline, and anticipation still separate great players. If you’re a coach, parent, or player who cares about real development and smarter in-game choices, this one will sharpen your approach from the first pitch to the last decision.

If you enjoyed this conversation, follow the show, leave a quick review, and share it with a coach or baseball parent who’ll use it on the field tomorrow.

Support the show

• Follow: X | @BCUPod / IG @baseballcoachesunplugged
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

If you’re banking on raw talent to carry you, this conversation will feel like a wake-up call. We break down the real separator in high school baseball—consistency—and show how it outperforms flash, hype, and one big showcase swing. From running out grounders during a slump to throwing intent-filled bullpens when no one’s filming, we draw a straight line between boring, repeatable habits and the trust that earns roles, innings, and opportunities.

We also go straight at excuses. Umpires, weather, lineups, and “bad hops” make easy targets, but every excuse hands away your power. Instead, we focus on the controllables: effort, preparation, attitude, and response. You may not control playing time, but you own how you train when your name isn’t called. You can’t erase mistakes, but you decide whether they define you or sharpen you. High school is where these patterns form, and college coaches can spot the difference between accountability and blame from a mile away.

Finally, we unpack what coachability really means. It isn’t silence or people-pleasing; it’s openness to instruction and the humility to apply feedback when it stings. Selective learners only accept coaching that feels good—and they plateau. The players who last hear a correction, say “Got it, coach,” and go right back to work. We close with a clear standard you can use today: be consistent when it’s boring, take ownership when it’s hard, and stay coachable when pride gets loud. Do these long enough and the results take care of themselves—on the field and in life.

If this hits home, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a teammate who’s ready to own their development.

Support the show

• Follow: X | @BCUPod / IG @baseballcoachesunplugged
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

Looking for the blueprint to develop a catcher who actually wins you games—and a program that players never want to leave? We sit down with Gaetano Gianni, former Reds draft pick and 2025 NHSBCA Region 7 Coach of the Year, to unpack the skill stack that matters behind the plate and the culture moves that turn a team into a true home. From leadership standards to real-world drills, this is a masterclass in catching and program building.

We start with the non-negotiables: why receiving quality drives everything, how blocking and throws slot in behind it, and how to evaluate catchers when the game speeds up. Gianni breaks down modern receiving, pancake gloves, and why live bullpen volume—especially with alumni pros—is the fastest path to better reads, cleaner transfers, and more strikes stolen. On the one-knee debate, he stays outcome-based: meet the standards or earn them the traditional way. For throws, he makes the case that short, connected footwork beats raw arm strength for most high school catchers.

Culture threads through every segment. Gianni explains how welcoming alumni and pros back onto the field raises standards for current players and gives parents confidence in the program. He shares mound-visit tactics that match a pitcher’s wiring, plus a powerful story about refusing a ball and unlocking a three-strikeout turnaround. Offensively, he details themed hitting sessions—oppo work, breaking balls, changeups, heavy balls—to prepare for 90-plus and build adaptable swings that play in pressure counts.

We also tackle recruiting in the transfer-portal era and what traits still project: athletic movements, frame, and relentless work. You’ll hear how a wild 6’5 arm turned into a 97-mph pro once the strike zone clicked. And for coaches battling early-season skids, Gianni reveals a simple dugout point system that shifted focus from outcomes to execution—and sparked a twelve-game win streak. Subscribe, share with your staff, and tell us: what’s the single most important trait you demand from your catcher?

Support the show

• Follow: X | @BCUPod / IG @baseballcoachesunplugged
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

Pressure finds you in baseball—the question is whether your mind helps or hijacks the moment. We pulled back the curtain on the inner voice that shows up with two outs and the game on the line, and shared a simple system to turn stinking thinking into calm, repeatable execution. Drawing on lessons from Ken Ravizza, Patrick Cohn, and the performance habits of pros, we translate sports psychology into crisp tools players can use today.

We start with the two voices every athlete hears: the fear voice that says don’t and the focused voice that says do. From there, we show how language drives pictures and pictures drive movement, why the brain doesn’t process negatives well, and how specific, instructional cues like see it deep or soft hands free your body to do what training built. You’ll learn how positive self-talk reduces anxiety and improves performance, and why chasing perfection in a sport of failure only feeds panic.

Then we get practical. We map out between-pitch reset routines—breath, focal point, cue word—that keep attention anchored to this pitch instead of the last miss or the next worry. We cover simple swaps that matter under lights: don’t chase becomes wait for your pitch; don’t make an error becomes secure the catch. We tie mindset to leadership, showing how your body language sets the tone for the dugout and how neutral thinking stops negative spirals before they snowball.

If you coach or play high school, travel, or college baseball, this is a blueprint for mental toughness you can practice like mechanics. Try one cue in your next practice, build a reset you trust, and watch pressure turn into clarity. If this helped, subscribe, leave a quick review, and share it with a teammate who needs a steady voice in big moments.

Support the show

• Follow: X | @BCUPod / IG @baseballcoachesunplugged
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

Ever wonder how a Hall of Fame coach keeps his team sharp when the forecast says 30 degrees and snow? We sit down with Jeff Mielcarek, head coach at Toledo Central Catholic, to unpack the hard choices, smart practice design, and durable culture that thrive in northern Ohio. From heated locker rooms to twenty-minute outdoor segments, Jeff shows how to get more live reps outside while staying safe and intentional. His approach turns weather into a competitive filter: build the foundation first, then push pace and urgency until practice feels like the fifth inning of a tight game.

We go inside his staple drills—the three-fungo outfield pregame and the chaos drill that fuses pitchers and infielders into a single, fast-moving unit. Jeff explains why defensive reps during BP must be full tilt, even if that invites criticism, because timid training produces timid play. Roster realities shape development too: shrinking enrollment means every strike-thrower gets on the mound and every athlete learns multiple positions. He shares how clear role meetings, frequent communication, and early buy-in help players—and their “agents” at home—embrace change without drama.

Strategy meets instinct when the game is on the line. Jeff describes pulling a dominant starter at 100 pitches in the opener, taking a loss to protect May. That blend of gut and plan, informed by daily contact with players’ health and mindset, guides his late-inning calls, including first-and-third decisions with a one-run lead. Beyond tactics, culture is the engine: daily messages 365 days a year, the handshake rule before anyone leaves, and teaching the national anthem with intention. He credits mentors, clinics, and board service for shaping a growth mindset that borrows, adapts, and evolves.

If you coach in cold weather, lead a small roster, or crave practice plans that hold up under pressure, you’ll find concrete ideas and honest stories you can use tomorrow. Subscribe, share this with a coaching friend, and leave a review with your best first-and-third defense—we’ll feature our favorite breakdowns next week.

Support the show

• Follow: X | @BCUPod / IG @baseballcoachesunplugged
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

A small-town program doesn’t stumble into seven state titles and five Hall of Famers by chance. We sit down with coaches shaped by Coldwater, Ohio and the late legend Lou Brunswick to unpack how a people-first culture, simple fundamentals, and joyful competition built a winning standard that still travels across the state. The stories are rich: Lou treating the star and the 16th man the same, scheduling bigger schools without apology, and yes—calling squeeze from a bus with a turn signal after getting tossed. The lessons run deeper than trophies: build trust, respect every role, and keep it loose so players compete free.

We trace coaching paths that started as bat boys and Pony League mentors, ran through pro ball and college, and returned to high school dugouts with a clear blueprint. You’ll hear why fundamentals still beat flash—clean relays, timely bunts, strike-throwing, and disciplined base running—and how that approach turns teenagers into resilient teammates. We also tackle the modern game: coach-to-catcher and coach-to-pitcher communication, where tech can sharpen tempo and decision-making without stealing leadership from the field.

Then comes the debate every spring stirs up: should Ohio shift to double elimination or best-of-three at the district level? With turf fields and tighter schedules, these coaches argue baseball deserves a format that rewards depth and consistency, not just a single dominant arm. Through it all, the thread is human: fathers and sons balancing love and standards, the sting of losses that teach more than wins, and the quiet satisfaction of doing things the right way every day.

If you value clear teaching, culture that lasts, and stories that make you grin on the way to practice, you’ll feel at home here. Subscribe, share with a coaching friend, and leave a quick review telling us your take: double-elim or best-of-three?

Support the show

• Follow: X | @BCUPod / IG @baseballcoachesunplugged
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

A Hall of Fame career doesn’t happen by accident—it’s built on clear language, daily habits, and choices that put integrity first. Coach Ken welcomes ABCA Hall of Famer Terry Ayers to trace five decades of high school baseball and why, despite all the data and tech, the path to better players is still surprisingly simple: see the ball, repeat the fundamentals, and keep people at the center.

We dive into practical hitting frameworks that start with vision—where to set your eyes, how to pick up spin, and how to avoid overloading hitters with swing thoughts. On the mound, Terry reframes the modern velocity chase with a coach’s view of sequencing and repeatability, breaking the delivery into linked movements and using slow-motion video to make fast patterns teachable. He shares his “core four plus one more” approach for daily drills, and the overlooked power of longer, smarter catch play to sharpen command.

The conversation opens up to what separates good coaches from great ones: aligned vocabulary, relentless fundamentals, and practices that stay fun without losing intent. Terry gets candid about burnout and balance—leaving wins and losses at the park—and offers a blueprint for working with parents through quick, consistent conversations that build trust before problems flare. Along the way, he tells the story of a split-second choice not to bend the rules, a moment that defined his leadership and the culture players still remember.

If you care about coaching culture, player development, pitching mechanics, hitting cues, and real-world leadership, this one is packed with on-field tactics and off-field wisdom. Listen to learn how to simplify hitting, build repeatable pitching, and strengthen relationships that sustain programs year after year. If this episode helps your team or your coaching, subscribe, share it with a coaching friend, and leave a review—we read every one.

Support the show

• Follow: X | @BCUPod / IG @baseballcoachesunplugged
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

Five coaches. One convention floor. A flood of practical wisdom you can use at your next practice. We hit record at ABCA in Columbus and asked straight questions about what actually translates to wins when the lights are bright and the lineup is short on second chances.

Coach Ronald Maestri opens with a clear case for command over radar gun romance and a blunt assessment of the transfer portal. For most high school players, JUCO can be the fastest route to real innings, development, and four-year success. From there, Coach Matt Vosberg puts two-strike hitting and situational offense back at the center of high school baseball, challenging hitters to extend at-bats, go the other way, and value the kind of contact that flips games, not just highlight reels. He draws a sharp line between talent and team-led cultures that hate to lose.

Coach Carter Turnquist brings fundamentals and character to the front: routine plays, aggressive baserunning, clean pregame habits, and grades that keep doors open. He explains why players who keep the moment small thrive early in college. Coach Matt Spivey spotlights bat speed as the game’s great equalizer while crediting his best season to total-roster buy-in and best-players-set-the-pace leadership. He calls on youth programs to value throwing, catching, and development over weekend rings. Coach Kyle McLaughlin ties it together with a simple mandate: compete. Then lift. Then showcase. Strength multiplies tools, culture sustains effort, and informed parents make the journey smoother.

If you want actionable coaching tips, real recruiting context, and a blueprint for building teams that win when it matters, this conversation delivers. Subscribe, share with your staff, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway so we can keep bringing you the most useful voices in baseball coaching.

Support the show

• Follow: X | @BCUPod / IG @baseballcoachesunplugged
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

Want to win more high school games without a big budget or a data team? We break down a practical roadmap for using analytics that fits into a busy coach’s life, from what to track in a notebook to the in-game decisions that swing close contests. The message is simple: ask better questions, measure what matters, and teach your players the why behind every choice.

We start by replacing old offensive habits with clearer metrics. On-base percentage becomes the north star for lineup construction, and quality at-bats turn plate appearances into teachable moments. You’ll hear how to use hash marks and weekly leaderboards to reward hard contact, walks, and two-strike wins so players focus on approach, not just batting average. Then we tackle pitching the right way: trade ERA for strikeouts, walks, WHIP, and competitive pitches. Protect arms with pitch counts and rest rules, and use simple review sessions to connect pitch selection and results to real adjustments.

Tech doesn’t have to be expensive to be effective. A smartphone delivers powerful video feedback for swings and deliveries. A basic radar gun keeps development honest and celebrates real velocity gains. Free stat apps provide spray charts and tendencies you can use for smarter positioning and scouting. We translate data into decisions you can trust: when bunting actually pays, who should really lead off, why your best hitter often belongs in the two-hole, and how to beat the third-time-through penalty with a prepared bullpen plan.

The heart of the episode is culture. Share the numbers openly, explain decisions with clear math, and praise the right habits even when luck cuts against you. Players learn faster, stay confident longer, and grow into baseball thinkers who can compete at the next level. If you’re ready to blend old-school grit with modern clarity, hit play, grab a notebook, and start tracking OBP and QABs this week. Subscribe for more coaching strategies, share this with a coaching friend, and tell us which metric you’ll implement first.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball coaching tips, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: X | @BCUPod / IG @baseballcoachesunplugged
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

Old-time baseball isn’t a museum piece—it’s a masterclass hiding in plain sight. We invited Jim Koenigsberger, a gifted storyteller of America’s pastime, to trace how legends like Yogi Berra, Jackie Robinson, Satchel Paige, Ted Williams, and Rickey Henderson still shape the smartest coaching on today’s fields. What emerges is a fresh, practical lens on development, durability, and the decisions that win games.

We start with Yogi’s real greatness—RBI crowns on stacked Yankees teams, marathon doubleheaders, and humble service—then connect it to the coach’s eye test that numbers can’t replace. From there, we follow Jackie’s path through a welcoming Montreal and onto a hostile national stage, using that journey to rethink how context unlocks performance. Jim brings the Negro Leagues into full focus, arguing that the Monarchs and Homestead Grays could hang with any era, and that their players’ versatility should reshape how we teach roles, reps, and resilience.

Development takes center stage as we challenge the two-pitch prospect pipeline and spotlight simple safeguards—pitch counts, rest rules, and patience—that actually protect arms. Ted Williams becomes our hitting blueprint: elite vision, relentless practice, and mentorship from Jimmie Foxx, all bookended by combat service that interrupted but never dimmed his prime. Finally, we reclaim the running game with Rickey Henderson’s playbook, showing how intelligent aggression pressures modern defenses when paired with reads, jumps, and situational awareness.

If you’re a coach, parent, or fan who believes the past can coach the present, this conversation delivers tools you can use tomorrow—sharper practice plans, better development paths, and a renewed love for the craft. Subscribe, share with a coaching friend, and leave a review to help more baseball people find these stories and turn them into wins.

Support the show

• Follow: X | @BCUPod / IG @baseballcoachesunplugged
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

Normal equals average. That single idea hits like a fastball under the hands, because it calls out the comfort that keeps programs stuck. We pull back the curtain on why talent and facilities won’t save a team that avoids adversity—and how a humble, hungry culture turns hard moments into momentum.

We start with the coach’s mirror: owning the postgame questions that matter. Did we prepare them for pressure, manage with intent, and teach adjustments, or did we fall back on routines that feel safe? Humility is not weakness; it’s the foundation of growth. When we label our mistakes in front of players, we teach them how to respond to theirs. From there, hunger becomes the engine. One more inning of film, one more tough conversation, one more targeted adjustment—these daily choices set a standard that players mirror when the game tightens.

You’ll hear practical frameworks to build a team that embraces adversity. We outline pressure-first practice design, with game-speed, consequence-driven scenarios that demand rapid decisions. We share debrief prompts that turn failure into feedback, and we show how to reward the grind: extra reps, self-scout habits, and resilient at-bats get the spotlight. Expect clear examples across travel, high school, and college contexts, plus mindset cues that keep your best hitter locked in during a slump and your ace composed after a crooked number.

If your program sometimes plays not to lose, this is your reset. Replace comfort with clarity, raise the bar you walk under every day, and watch players choose courage over excuses. Subscribe, share this with a coaching friend who needs a spark, and leave a review telling us the first standard you’re raising this week.

Support the show

• Follow: X | @BCUPod / IG @baseballcoachesunplugged
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

A holiday thank you turns into a masterclass on building a champion when Gary Gilmore, the recently retired head coach of Coastal Carolina, joins us to unpack how a mid-major beat the blue bloods in Omaha. From overlooked recruits to a dogpile on the final out, he takes us step-by-step through the strategy, the culture, and the belief that changed everything.

We start with the foundation: recruit athletes, not résumés; redshirt for strength and skill; and teach the details that win close games. Gary breaks down why regionals are a bullpen marathon and why Omaha rewards clarity and roles, then shows how Coastal became brutally hard to beat—leading the nation in home runs and sacrifice bunts while stealing bags, defending cleanly, and placing pressure in every inning. If you care about baseball player development, college baseball culture, or winning in the NIL and portal era, this conversation is packed with takeaways you can use tomorrow.

Then we go inside the moments that defined the run: the LSU Super Regional ninth inning where a freshman error threatened to derail everything, the bold 3–1 slider call, the perfect steal break, and the sequence that sent them to Omaha. Gary shares the postgame locker room where he asked his players to lock hands and eyes, then laid out a plan that unfolded almost pitch-for-pitch in the championship—converting an All-American reliever to start, bridging with the best inherited-run stopper in the country, and trusting a career starter to record the final strikeout as a reliever. Woven through it all is his why: lead with love, hold a high standard, and let belief carry talent further than pedigree.

If you’re a coach, parent, or player, you’ll leave with practical tools for culture-building, recruiting overlooked athletes, and preparing staffs for postseason stress. If you’re a fan, you’ll relive the chills of a true David vs Goliath story. Follow the show, share it with a baseball friend, and leave a quick review to help more coaches find it. What part of Gary’s plan will you try first?

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball coaching tips, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: X | @BCUPod / IG @baseballcoachesunplugged
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

A roster full of talent won’t save a season if communication fractures. We sat down with Travis Davidson from Team Sports Consulting Group to unpack how a simple five‑minute survey can transform culture, reveal real leaders, and help coaches read stress before it derails a game. From high school diamonds to College World Series runs, Travis shows how relational science turns “culture” from a buzzword into a repeatable system you can coach.

We dig into the four core traits that shape how players think, lead, and learn—and how those patterns show up under pressure. You’ll hear how to stop forcing your best hitter into a role he hates, use side‑by‑side profiles to resolve coach–player conflicts, and set your team’s environment on purpose: locker pods, bus assignments, even hotel routines that preserve energy for the moments that decide seasons. Catchers get a special spotlight as we explore pitcher–catcher scans that equip them to spot backup styles, slow the game down, and anchor tempo when the count and crowd tilt against you.

Travis also challenges a myth: there’s no single personality that makes a great coach. The real separator is self‑awareness. Whether you lean gut or analytics, the edge comes from knowing your style, speaking in each player’s language, and building a shared map of how your team works. With clear pricing designed for high schools and a no‑risk offer for head coaches, the path from guesswork to clarity is closer than you think.

Ready to turn communication into a competitive advantage? Listen now, claim the free head coach scan, and share this with a staff member who picks captains. If this conversation helped you think differently, follow, rate, and leave a review so more coaches can find it.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball coaching tips, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

X - @TravisSkol

Support the show

• Follow: X | @BCUPod / IG @baseballcoachesunplugged
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

What does it take to move one seat over and keep a winner winning? We sit down with Hilliard Darby’s new head baseball coach, Andrew Ozbolt, to unpack the real work of inheriting a high-performing program: protecting standards, earning trust, and evolving without erasing what made the team great.

Andrew shares how 11 years as an assistant under Hall of Famer Chris Fugitt prepared him to lead with clarity. He explains the habits that travel—punctuality, defensive communication, and small ball—and why bunts and steals still play deep in the state tournament. We get practical about facilities too: the ongoing grass vs turf debate, how a well-kept natural surface stacks up, and why reliable outdoor reps can tilt development. Inside Darby’s hitting facility, he walks through winter stations, HitTrax feedback, modern pitching routines with bands and plyos, and the art of cycling groups for high-volume, high-quality work.

We also go behind the clipboard on staff building. Andrew outlines what he looks for in assistants—teachers who connect, simplify, and show up year-round—and how securing a proven pitching coach was priority one. The schedule won’t blink for anyone, and the league is a meat grinder loaded with champions. Andrew’s definition of success is honest and actionable: compete daily, handle humbling moments, enjoy wins without rushing past them, and be ready to peak when brackets drop.

If you’re a coach, player, or parent who cares about player development, practice design, team culture, and winning baseball strategy, this conversation will give you tools you can use today. Subscribe, share with a coaching friend, and leave a review to help more coaches find the show. What’s one standard your team won’t compromise this season? Tell us after you listen.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball coaching tips, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: X | @BCUPod / IG @baseballcoachesunplugged
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us Fan Mail

Why do high school coaches keep showing up when the hours are brutal, the stipend is small, and the critiques are loud? We open the door to the dugout and talk honestly about purpose, sacrifice, and the quiet wins that outlast any trophy. Ken shares his ongoing battle with ulcerative colitis and multiple surgeries, describing what it means to keep serving through pain and why the podcast became a bridge back to the game after disability retirement.

We walk through the real day-to-day: opening cages before sunrise, prepping fields on sweltering Saturdays, and making lineup decisions that weigh the dreams of an entire roster. Parents hear a candid view of how coaches see all eighteen kids, not just one, and why choices are made with development, accountability, and team roles in mind. Players get a direct message about standards, discipline, and the kind of pressure that forges character. The big theme is clear: baseball is the classroom where resilience, teamwork, and ownership are taught in real time.

Along the way, we honor mentors who shaped us, the families who hold the line at home, and the former players who call years later to say thank you. The conversation is raw and grounded—less about schemes and more about stewardship. If you care about youth sports, coaching culture, or how athletic programs build future fathers, husbands, and leaders, this story will resonate. Subscribe, share with a coach or parent who needs this perspective, and leave a review so we can keep elevating voices that make the game better.

Support the show

• Follow: X | @BCUPod / IG @baseballcoachesunplugged
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Winning can be the start of the slide. After a deep run or a title, the real threat isn’t on your schedule—it’s in your clubhouse. We unpack how complacency takes root during the quiet months and map out a hard-nosed offseason plan that keeps players hungry, focused, and honest about their work.

We start with lessons from Nick Saban’s process: celebrate briefly, then eliminate the “rat poison” of praise by anchoring everything to execution—one drill, one rep, one play at a time. Then we look at Ryan Day’s transparency model and apply it to baseball with visible practice stats, effort grades, and execution metrics that remove hiding spots and turn accountability into culture. From there, we translate elite habits into concrete baseball standards: measurable throwing programs, exit velocity benchmarks, 60-yard improvements, body composition targets, and skill assessments scheduled and posted so progress is public and real.

You’ll hear how to reset the narrative on day one, rebuild roles from scratch, and design player-owned development plans that name three weaknesses and attack each with a partner, a timeline, and testing days. We frame roster turnover as a proving ground for new leaders and show how to “schedule humility” with film, guest speakers, and manufactured adversity through constraint scrimmages and competitive training blocks. The message is simple and sharp: excellence is a pursuit, not a destination, and last year’s success can’t become this year’s excuse.

If you’re ready to turn comfort into fuel, lock in your standards, measure everything, and keep the goalposts moving. Subscribe, share this episode with a fellow coach, and leave a quick review telling us the one metric you’ll track this offseason. Your trophy won’t lift weights for you—what will you measure next?

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

The toughest moment for many baseball dads isn’t a bad call or a tough loss—it’s handing the reins to the high school staff and walking to the bleachers. This candid conversation with Dr. JT Anderson, former team chiropractor for the Denver Broncos and author of Outside the Fence, explores the identity shift from youth coach to supportive parent and how that transition shapes a player’s confidence, development, and love of the game.

We dive into the subtle markers of meddling—sideline coaching, fence-line pacing, and postgame lectures—and how they quietly undercut trust between players and coaches. JT offers a powerful framework for coaches: grow a rhinoceros’s skin for criticism, a lion’s heart for courage, and a koala’s tenderness for care. We talk about why tough schedules matter, how to navigate the travel ball to high school role change, and what it takes to build a team-first culture where every athlete understands their role. Expect practical tools: short, clear feedback loops, player-led communication to influence the home, and better car-ride questions that keep the experience in the athlete’s hands.

We also address the hard realities—parent pressure that costs great coaches their jobs, the difference between the “best” players and the “right” players, and how leadership is forged behind locker room doors. JT shares lessons from pro sports, stories that bring back the smells and sounds of the ballpark, and a reminder that character outlasts the box score. If you’re a parent, coach, or player navigating the leap to high school baseball, this episode offers a steady compass for trust, resilience, and team culture.

Enjoyed the conversation? Follow, share with a baseball friend, and leave a quick review to help more coaches, parents, and players find the show.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

What if nearly half of what separates good teams from great ones can’t be found on a stat sheet? We explore the real engine behind championship baseball: team chemistry. Drawing on a large-scale study of MLB teams from 1998 to 2016, we break down how player complementarities and trust explain a surprising portion of performance, and why coaches who design relationships win more when pressure spikes.

We share practical takeaways from managers who mastered the human side of the game. Bruce Bochy shows how clarity and connection turn talent into titles. Joe Maddon proves that fun is a strategy, not a gimmick, sustaining energy over a 162-game grind. Terry Francona’s clubhouse model highlights how empowering veteran leaders can build belief that survives slumps and setbacks. Along the way, we challenge the myth that chemistry is mystical, and show you how to spot the “glue guys” whose intangibles lift the group.

You’ll leave with a simple coaching blueprint: recruit for fit, not just tools; create role clarity so every player knows when, why, and how they contribute; install small rituals that strengthen bonds; and communicate consistently to build trust before the big moments arrive. We also tackle the “winning or chemistry first” debate, arguing for intentional culture-building that moves results rather than waits for them. Whether you coach high school, college, or travel ball, these stories, data-backed insights, and on-field tactics will help you build a dugout that multiplies talent.

If this conversation sparked ideas for your team, follow the show, share it with a coaching friend, and leave a quick review so more coaches can find it. Have a guest we should feature? Send us your suggestion at www.athlete1.net.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Twenty-two coaching vacancies in one county—without scandal, without losing streaks—just a wave of veteran leaders saying, “Enough.” We sit down with Mansfield News Journal sports reporter Jake Furr to unpack the forces driving high school coaches out: parents bypassing the chain of command, school boards overruling athletic directors, and an expectations spiral fueled by travel ball spending and the D1-or-bust myth.

Jake walks us through the stories behind his three-part series on Richland County, Ohio, where seasoned coaches with championships on their résumés stepped away after years of late-night emails, social media outrage, and meetings where reason lost to volume. We talk about the real cost of that erosion—fractured team culture, confused athletes, and a revolving door of new coaches tasked with rebuilding from scratch. Along the way, we dig into what meaningful administrative support looks like: a clear chain of command, scheduled conversations about playing time, consistent policies, and school boards that hire competent ADs then let them lead.

We also face the sidelines. From irrational crowd behavior to direct confrontations with officials, the officiating shortage is accelerating. Jake shares practical solutions communities are testing—officiating classes for students, firm ejection policies with real consequences, and incentives for positive parent conduct. For coaches, we share templates for transparent standards: how roles are earned, what development pathways look like, and why merit-based playing time is non-negotiable. For parents and athletes, we offer a healthier scorecard: being coachable, owning your role, celebrating team success, and seeing sports as preparation for life, not just a scholarship chase.

If you care about youth sports—coach, parent, player, or administrator—this conversation gives you language, policy ideas, and perspective to start fixing the environment today. Listen, share with your athletic community, and tell us: what accountability step will your program adopt first? Subscribe, rate, and leave a review to help more programs find this conversation.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Ready for an honest look at the smartest path from high school baseball to D1 and beyond? We sit down with Coach Austin Nelson of Cochise College to unpack why junior college baseball often beats jumping straight into a crowded Division I roster. With the transfer portal stacking lineups with 22 to 24-year-olds, an 18-year-old freshman can get buried. JUCO flips that script: you face peers your age, see the field early, and stack real-game reps that drive development and recruiting momentum.

We dive into the biggest myths about JUCO and break down why Arizona’s conference is among the most competitive in the country. Coach Nelson shares concrete success stories, from players moving to Kansas, Mizzou, New Mexico State, Dallas Baptist, and Arizona to arms getting drafted or signing pro deals. The conversation drills into what actually moves a player up: mental makeup, short memory after failure, and a structured environment that rewards consistent work.

You’ll also get a clear look at costs, housing, meal plans, and why JUCO can deliver a full year for a fraction of many four-year programs. For pitchers, the details matter: daily throwing, targeted arm care, prehab and rehab, and conditioning that builds durable velocity gains without overuse. Parents will appreciate the practical guidance on what to ask before committing—playing time reality, communication with coaches, development plans, and financial fit. We even get into hot-seat takes on the transfer portal, a candid play-bench-trade segment, postseason picks, and a memorable story from the JUCO World Series.

If you want playing time now, measurable development, and a proven route to the next level, this conversation shows how JUCO can be the most direct path forward. Enjoy the insights, share it with a teammate or parent who needs it, and follow the show—then leave a quick review to help more baseball families find us.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

What does it really take for a small farming community to build a high school baseball dynasty? We sit down with Eaton High School head coach Todd Hernandez to unpack the real blueprint behind 15 Colorado state titles, four since 2021, and a 74-game win streak that turned heads nationwide. No fluff, no gimmicks—just culture you can feel and drills you can steal.

Todd traces the roots back to youth baseball, where kids in Eaton learn varsity habits early and see role models wearing the same hat they do. That pipeline creates continuity, accountability, and pride that shows up on game day: crisp routines, hustle in and out, and players who know their jobs. We go deep on fundamentals—daily base running, bunt coverages, pick plays—and why the “boring stuff” decides playoff games. Todd breaks down his favorite multi-station defensive circuits and how he keeps every athlete moving, even indoors, using gym nets, a pop-up cage nicknamed Big Bertha, rollout carpet for grounders, and indoor mounds in a wrestling room.

Leadership and honesty sit at the center of Eaton’s success. Todd shares hard-won lessons, including a state tournament decision to save a closer for tomorrow and the philosophy that grew from it: win the next out before you plan the next day. He talks candidly about embracing the target on Eaton’s back, teaching “pressure is a privilege,” and staying process-first after a walk-off loss that ended the streak. We also explore empowering assistants to own outfield, catching, and pitching development, and how clear communication helps navigate playing time in a deep roster.

From small-town roots to a modern, resilient system, Todd shows how to build a program that survives graduation, weather, and expectations. If you’re a coach hungry for tangible practice ideas, culture foundations, and a mindset that travels, this conversation is your field guide. Subscribe, share with a coaching friend, and leave a review to help more coaches find the show. What part of Eaton’s blueprint will you try first?

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

A Hall of Fame coach with 500+ wins doesn’t hang around by accident. Coach Mike Shade of Gahanna Lincoln High School (OH) opens the dugout door to 41 years of lessons: why relationships anchor a program, how practice—not pep talks—decides results, and what “all in” really means for player standards, culture, and accountability. We trace his journey from early assistant days to a sustained run in the OCC’s gauntlet, where weekly battles sharpen teams for the state tournament.

We dig into his non-negotiables—character, effort, and being a great teammate—and how he delivers tough feedback without leaving players in the doghouse. Mike shares how the game has evolved around travel ball and shifting norms, yet still revolves around three outs, three strikes, and a pre‑pitch plan. You’ll hear why he respects umpires who hustle and prepare, and how empowering energetic assistants keeps a veteran staff fresh. Off the field, a simple tradition—his wife’s annual senior pasta dinner—reveals how small, consistent acts turn a roster into a family.

The stories are the heart: an unforgettable 3–2, bases‑loaded walk‑off that still gives chills, Evan White’s first-base artistry that later earned a Gold Glove, and the all-time trio he’d choose to ride with—Bench behind the plate, Gibson or Koufax on the hill, and Mickey Mantle in the box. If you coach, play, or simply love baseball, you’ll leave with a blueprint for sustainable success: teach clean fundamentals, correct fast and lift faster, respect the craft, and trust your people when the season shrinks to a single pitch.

If this resonated, follow the show, share it with a coach or parent who cares about culture, and leave a quick review so more baseball people can find us.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

0:00

Intro & Sponsor Message

2:36

Meet Hall of Famer Mike Shade

3:24

Longevity, Loyalty, and Purpose

4:35

Early Years and Assistant Lessons

7:10

Non‑Negotiables and Player Character

9:18

How The Game Changed, What Hasn’t

11:27

Umpires, Standards, and Professionalism

13:22

Winning, Losing, and Practice First

15:30

OCC Competition and State Runs

17:15

Assistants’ Impact and A Supportive Spouse

19:20

The Unforgettable District Walk‑Off

22:10

Evan White’s Defense and Growth

24:00

Mantle, Seaver, and Baseball Roots

25:40

Hate Losing, Love Seven‑Game Series

27:00

All‑Time Catcher, Pitcher, Hitter Picks

28:30

Closing Thanks & Sponsor Reminder

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

What if the fastest way to win more games is to stop spending outs? We take a hard look at the numbers that truly drive runs—on-base percentage, slugging percentage, and the deceptively simple OPS—and show how a smarter lineup can flip close scores in your favor. From a striking Barry Bonds breakdown to a candid reflection on batting a high school star second for extra plate appearances, we lay out why batting average and RBIs often hide the real story and how to build an order that multiplies opportunities instead of wasting them.

We start by reframing offense around scarcity: every team owns a limited supply of outs, and the goal is to convert those into runs with ruthless efficiency. That’s where OBP becomes the north star, rewarding hitters who control the zone and keep innings alive. Layer in slugging to capture extra-base impact, then combine them into OPS to compare hitters cleanly. You’ll hear a simple head-to-head that exposes why a .265 hitter with a .900 OPS can outproduce a .300 hitter with a .760 OPS, especially when every plate appearance is magnified in seven-inning high school games.

From Moneyball’s 2002 A’s to the 2004 Red Sox and the Rays’ worst-to-first leap, the pattern holds: teams that get on base and hit for power score more and win more. We translate that into a clear blueprint for coaches—elevate your highest OBP bats to the top, stack reliable power behind them, and give your best OPS hitters the most turns. Then we balance the model with practical judgment: park factors, matchups, and game flow still matter, but they should refine, not replace, your default. Walk away with drills and culture shifts that reward plate discipline, punish bad swing decisions, and celebrate the unsexy walk as a winning play.

Ready to rebuild your card with purpose and pick up a few extra wins? Follow the show, share this episode with your staff, and leave a quick review telling us your team’s OPS thresholds for the top of the lineup.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

A thrown chair blocks the stage door, and a young actor freezes—until a director offers three words that change everything: use the difficulty. We take that vivid moment and walk it straight into the dugout, exploring how coaches can turn injuries, slumps, rainouts, and schedule chaos into catalysts for growth. Rather than gritting our teeth and hoping the plan survives contact with reality, we show how to build plans that thrive on disruption—and teach players to see pressure not as a threat, but as an opportunity.

We dig into baseball’s core truth: failure is part of the design. A .300 hitter is a master of recovery, not perfection. With that lens, we map practical coaching moves that compound under stress—cross-training athletes to create depth, scripting rainout pivots that develop baseball IQ, adopting constraint-led drills that train decision-making, and running stress scrimmages that normalize chaos. You’ll hear clear, field-tested ways to turn an injured ace into a deeper staff, a cold lineup into a small-ball machine, and a position vacancy into a discovery of unexpected talent. Along the way, we break down the leadership cues that matter when the game gets loud: when to lighten the mood, when to tighten the standard, and how to communicate in short, sharp, useful language that focuses attention on the next actionable rep.

If you believe culture is built when things go wrong, this conversation gives you the tools to prove it on Tuesday and again on Friday. We close with a challenge you can use today: name the obstacle, define the opportunity it hides, and design one tiny practice block to exploit it. Subscribe, share with a coaching friend, and leave a review with your best “use the difficulty” moment—we’ll feature our favorites on a future show.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

00:02:02

Show Intro And Weekly Format

00:02:31

The Michael Caine Story

00:03:33

Use The Difficulty: Coaching Lens

00:04:22

Baseball’s Built-In Failure

00:05:10

Turning Setbacks Into Strategy

00:06:00

Leadership Under Pressure

00:07:20

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Mason Stookey knows the true meaning of rebuilding. When a tornado hit Coweta (OK) High School's baseball field in 2021, destroying their fence, equipment, and freshly planted rye seed, he faced a critical choice: follow the trend toward artificial turf or recommit to maintaining a premier natural playing surface. His decision to double down on tradition speaks volumes about his coaching philosophy.

"When people step into our yard, I want it to be the best surface they can be on," Stookey explains, detailing how he meticulously mows the outfield daily at three-quarters of an inch with a reel mower. This commitment to field maintenance isn't just about aesthetics—it's about teaching players to invest sweat equity into something greater than themselves.

This philosophy extends throughout Stookey's program, built on three fundamental pillars: accountability, responsibility, and attention to detail. His weekly grade checks require players to collect performance feedback from all their teachers, tracking not just grades but missing assignments and classroom conduct. "That's not a lesson just for baseball," Stookey emphasizes, "that's a lesson for life."

Perhaps most innovative is Coweta's "Tough Fridays" initiative—replacing traditional practice with team-building mental toughness workouts. Players work in "boat crews" to complete challenging tasks that build resilience for high-pressure game situations. The results speak for themselves, with the team winning approximately ten games in walk-off fashion during a recent season.

Stookey's coaching journey began after his playing career ended due to injury. Initially walking away from baseball entirely, he experienced an epiphany weeks before college graduation: "There's people and teammates that had given me so much and taught me so many lessons through the game that I wanted to give back."

From navigating the challenges between school baseball instruction and travel ball coaching to his unforgettable story of chasing a player's runaway steer across the baseball field, Stookey's conversation reveals a coach who combines traditional values with innovative methods to develop not just successful teams, but successful young men.

00:00:00

Introduction to Mason Stuckey

00:04:50

Rebuilding After Tornado Damage

00:09:15

Natural Surface Pride

00:12:03

Three Pillars: Accountability and Responsibility

00:17:07

Practice Planning and Team Development

00:20:45

Leadership and Communi

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Championship programs aren't built on talent alone – they're founded on consistent systems, deliberate culture-building, and a philosophy that develops complete athletes. Coach Ben Evick of Cape Henlopen High School has mastered this formula, leading his program to three Delaware state championships in seven years.

What stands out immediately in Coach Evick's approach is his firm belief in multi-sport participation. While many programs push early specialization, Evick actively encourages his players to wrestle, run track, and play football. This philosophy aligns perfectly with what college coaches and professional scouts seek: well-rounded athletes who've proven their competitive nature across different environments. With 16 current college players and 5 professionals (including 2 Major Leaguers), the results speak for themselves.

The competitive practice environment at Cape Henlopen separates good programs from great ones. Every drill has consequences – miss your fundamental execution during batting practice, and you'll lose live swings later. This accountability creates players who thrive under pressure because they've faced it daily. Combined with scheduling the toughest possible opponents, Evick's players arrive at championship moments prepared for anything.

Perhaps most compelling is the "Win The Day" mentality that permeates the program. Players focus on finding small victories daily, whether on the field or in their personal lives. Clear communication through regular individual meetings ensures everyone understands their role and value. The result? A sustainable championship culture where players hold themselves accountable and leadership transitions seamlessly from one class to the next.

Ready to transform your baseball program? Listen now to discover Coach Evick's blueprint for championship success, and consider how his player-centered approach might revolutionize your team's culture and performance. Subscribe, share, and join our coaching community as we learn from the nation's best.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Ever wonder what separates the starters from the bench in high school baseball? The answer might surprise you—it has less to do with March tryouts and everything to do with what happens in September.

The players who earn starting positions understand that the foundation is built months before the season begins. Physical preparation through consistent participation in team weightlifting programs doesn't just build strength—it demonstrates commitment while allowing coaches to evaluate work ethic directly. Smart players balance this intensity with proper rest and recovery, understanding that overtraining can be as detrimental as undertraining.

What truly separates good players from great ones is their approach to weakness. While most athletes naturally gravitate toward practicing what they already do well, future starters deliberately focus on improving their vulnerabilities. Can't hit a curveball? That becomes the priority. Struggling with backhand plays? Extra repetitions addressing that specific skill become essential. Coaches notice players who work to eliminate weaknesses rather than simply showcasing strengths.

The mental game represents another crucial differentiator. In baseball, where even the best hitters fail seven out of ten times, mental toughness becomes paramount. The off-season provides ample opportunity to develop this mental edge through reading, visualization practices, and learning how to handle both failure and success. Players who approach batting practice with purpose—working on specific situations like two-strike approaches or opposite-field hitting—develop game-ready skills that random swinging simply cannot produce.

Parents play a vital role in this preparation journey. Understanding that the process requires patience and perspective can make all the difference. Not every player makes varsity as a freshman, and not every upperclassman starts immediately. The players who ultimately succeed use setbacks as motivation rather than reasons to give up or blame others. The reality of high school baseball is simple but often misunderstood: coaches play their "favorite" players, but these favorites earn that status through reliability, consistent performance, and competitive practice habits.

Want to increase your chances of making the starting lineup this spring? Start putting in the invisible work today. Subscribe to Baseball Coaches Unplugged for more insider tips from coaches who make the decisions that determine playing time.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

• 0:00
• Introduction: Preparing For Starting Positions
• 3:10
• Physical Preparation and Team Building
• 5:54
• Academic Success and Addressing Weaknesses
• 7:54
• Mental Toughness and Purposeful Practice
• 9:58
• Defensive Skills and Pitching Preparation
• 12:38
• Advice for Parents and Closing

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

What separates consistently successful baseball programs from the rest? For Coach Jared Ingersoll of American Fork High School (UT), it's creating what he calls "the AF way" – a distinct approach to baseball marked by exceptional energy, relentless hustle, and players who genuinely compete for each other rather than themselves.

After leading his program to three state championships in five years, Ingersoll pulls back the curtain on building championship culture. He reveals how fostering authentic team chemistry creates an almost tangible feeling in the dugout when players truly buy into playing for something larger than individual achievements. "Very few people actually have an idea of what it means to be on a team where you can almost feel it," Ingersoll explains, describing the rare chemistry that emerges when players learn to value collective success.

Particularly fascinating is Ingersoll's approach to player development and role management. Rather than avoiding difficult conversations with players receiving limited playing time, he creates space for honest dialogue: "I want your heart. I don't want you to sugarcoat how you feel inside." This vulnerability-first approach allows him to help players find meaning beyond statistical contributions. His story about a senior catcher who barely played but received MVP consideration demonstrates how deeply Ingersoll values attitude and team contribution over mere talent.

Throughout the conversation, Ingersoll shares practical strategies that have built his championship program: pressure-filled practice situations that prepare players for big moments, detailed pregame routines that signal professionalism, and constant communication with parents about expectations. He balances traditional baseball approaches with modern adaptations, demonstrating how championship programs evolve while maintaining core values.

Want to create a baseball program known for both winning and developing exceptional young men? Listen as Coach Ingersoll breaks down his blueprint for championship culture that goes far beyond just collecting trophies.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

• 0:00
• Introducing Coach Jared Ingersoll
• 5:20
• Keys to Championship Success
• 9:33
• Handling the Pressure of Big Games
• 16:48
• Managing Players' Roles and Expectations
• 27:31
• Evolving Coaching Philosophy
• 32:43
• Coaching Reflections and Baseball Memories

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Ever wonder why some baseball programs consistently win championships while others, despite similar talent, fall short? The answer often lies in one word: accountability. But not the kind that's just plastered on team hoodies or chanted in pre-game huddles.

True accountability separates the great teams from the mediocre ones, and in this episode, we dive deep into what that really means. When a player boots a ground ball or skips a workout, how the team responds reveals everything about their championship potential. Mediocre teams whisper about mistakes behind closed doors and let standards slide for talented players. Championship teams confront issues head-on—not to embarrass anyone, but to elevate everyone.

We explore how great players actually crave accountability rather than avoid it. They seek feedback, initiate tough conversations, and recognize that growth happens in discomfort. I share the story of a player who wasn't our most talented athlete but transformed our team culture by consistently asking for straight feedback after every game. His approach was contagious and elevated everyone around him.

For coaches looking to build championship cultures, accountability can't just be preached—it must be systematized. It needs to be built into every drill and practice. Leadership must come from everywhere, not just captains. Hard conversations need to be normalized. And most importantly, you must be willing to make tough decisions about players who undermine your culture, regardless of their talent. Because one truth remains: championships aren't won with slogans, they're won with standards that are upheld every single day. Which kind of team are you building?

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Ever wonder what it takes to build a championship baseball team in a place where players sometimes have to shovel snow off the field just to practice? South Dakota State Champion coach Jeremy Van Heel takes us behind the scenes of his Brandon Valley High School program's remarkable journey to victory.

When Van Heel recognized his team had championship potential, he focused not on physical skills but on the mental game. "Our biggest downfall was the eight inches between the head," he explains. This honest assessment led to a powerful team conversation where he told his players: "My biggest fear is that you don't understand the potential you have and how great you can be." The mindset shift that followed became their championship catalyst.

The turning point came when they adopted a "burn the boats" philosophy—inspired by the historical reference to Hernán Cortés eliminating retreat as an option for his men. This no-retreat mentality powered an incredible comeback in the quarterfinals where they overcame a seven-run deficit. Van Heel's team went on to win 11 consecutive games to capture the state title, proving that "pressure is a privilege."

What makes this story particularly compelling is the unique challenges of coaching in South Dakota's harsh climate. Van Heel describes seasons where they couldn't practice outside until mid-April due to weather conditions, forcing creative approaches to team development. Yet these challenges build character and mental toughness that translates to tournament success.

Perhaps most refreshing is Van Heel's perspective on the recruitment process. Unlike the prevailing narrative that expensive travel teams are necessary for exposure, he shares the story of his Notre Dame-bound pitcher who played only high school and Legion baseball. "If you've got talent, they will find you," he emphasizes—a message of hope for talented players from remote areas or families without resources for elite travel programs.

Whether you're coaching in challenging conditions or seeking to develop mental toughness in your players, this episode offers invaluable insights for building champions in any environment. Subscribe, leave a review, and join us each week as we continue to unpack the wisdom of baseball's most successful coaches!

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

What happens when college baseball recruits finally arrive on campus? Are coaches getting the players they thought they recruited, or do they discover someone entirely different?

Brian Warning, former college recruiting coordinator at Thiel and Lake Erie College, pulls back the curtain on the critical summer period before college baseball and how it separates future contributors from those who'll struggle to make the team. With candid insights gained from years evaluating talent, Warning explains how coaches immediately recognize which players dedicated their summer to preparation and which ones chose partying over progress.

"The summer is the longest window you have to change your game," Warning emphasizes, pointing to those crucial 15-16 weeks between high school graduation and college arrival. Players who utilize this time properly show up physically transformed, baseball-ready, and mentally prepared for the challenges ahead. Those who waste it often spend their first college season desperately trying to catch up.

Warning also addresses the underestimated challenges of transitioning to college baseball: the elevated competition level, the complex mental demands, and the highly structured lifestyle. For players seeking recruitment, he offers three practical strategies: get an honest evaluation of your skill level, personalize your outreach to coaches, and consistently perform as "the best guy on the field" when opportunities arise.

Whether you're a high school player dreaming of college baseball, a parent helping navigate the recruiting landscape, or a coach preparing athletes for the next level, this episode provides invaluable perspective on what truly matters in the transition to collegiate play. Subscribe now and check out new episodes every Wednesday featuring conversations with the best baseball coaches across the country.

00:00:00College Preparation Reality Check 00:09:56Summer Development Makes the Difference 00:17:26The Weight Room Advantage 00:22:01High School to College Transition 00:30:06Smart Recruiting Strategies 00:34:02Coach Warning's Coaching Philosophy 00:39:45Influence of a Coaching Father

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Some baseball stories transcend the game itself, becoming legends that remind us why we love this sport. Ryan Heath's April 23, 2007 performance is exactly that kind of story.

Imagine a quiet, hardworking kid from a small rural high school who had never hit a grand slam in his life. Then, in one magical doubleheader for Oakland University, he launches three grand slams, adds another home run, and drives in a staggering 14 RBIs. This isn't fiction – it's the incredible true story of a former Buckeye Valley player who made national headlines and found himself featured in Sports Illustrated after doing something that defies belief.

What makes Heath's story so powerful isn't just the eye-popping statistics, but the character behind them. Before becoming a Louisville Slugger National Player of the Week, he was a three-sport athlete who embodied everything coaches hope to develop: humility, grit, and a team-first mentality. His response after the historic performance? "I think I was just trying to hit a sac fly." That tells you everything about who he was as a player and person.

For coaches everywhere, this episode delivers a powerful reminder of why we invest countless hours in player development. The spectacular moments that make headlines are almost always built on a foundation of ordinary, consistent effort when nobody's watching. Ryan Heath's once-in-a-lifetime performance demonstrates what happens when preparation meets opportunity, and why character development matters just as much as physical skills. Listen now to this inspiring story that captures the very essence of what makes baseball so special and coaching so rewarding.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

When Gary Gilmore arrived at Coastal Carolina, they had won just 17 games the previous season. Nobody—except perhaps Gilmore himself—believed this program could ever reach college baseball's pinnacle. Yet through a remarkable development-focused philosophy, unwavering faith, and a culture built on love, Gilmore guided the Chanticleers to one of the greatest underdog stories in sports history.

The 2016 College World Series champions weren't built on blue-chip recruits or lavish facilities. Coastal thrived by taking overlooked athletes, redshirting them to build their skills, and molding them into complete baseball players. "We had to take guys that simply nobody ever heard of," Gilmore reveals, explaining how he prioritized athleticism over polish in recruiting. This development approach, coupled with the program's "selfless and relentless" mantra, created a team greater than the sum of its parts.

What makes this championship story even more extraordinary are the specific predictions Gilmore shared with his team before the final series. In an emotional team meeting, he outlined exactly how they would win—which pitchers would throw how many innings and the precise situations they would face. His players watched in amazement as these predictions unfolded exactly as described. "Coach, you told us what was going to happen before it happened. How did you do that?" they would later ask him.

Behind this magical run was Gilmore's transformation as a leader. After nearly leaving coaching early in his career due to frustration, he discovered his true purpose through faith and relationships. "The most important thing God put me on this earth for was to develop relationships," he shares. This revelation led him to create a culture where love became the team's greatest strength—where players constantly picked each other up after failures and supported one another unconditionally.

Whether you're a coach seeking to build a championship program or simply love underdog stories, Gilmore's journey offers powerful lessons about development, culture, and the extraordinary things that happen when a team truly believes.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Championship teams aren't born—they're built through transformative moments. When Olentangy High School was run-ruled by their rivals midway through the 2025 season, head coach Ryan Lucas watched something remarkable happen. His players, on their own accord, gathered in the locker room for an honest conversation about identity and commitment. That player-led meeting sparked a stunning turnaround—16 wins in their next 17 games culminating in an Ohio Division I State Championship.

What separates merely talented teams from champions? Lucas reveals it's the unsexy fundamentals most programs overlook. While teams obsess over hitting, Olentangy dedicated precious practice time to base running and mastering catching and throwing. The results spoke volumes: they committed just one error through the entire tournament while scoring 34 runs and allowing only 5. Beyond strategic decisions, Lucas shares his evolution from a hard-nosed authoritarian to a relationship-focused leader who recognizes each player's unique personality. "I don't think the kids have changed," he reflects, "society has changed, and you can't be stubborn."

The championship journey contains powerful lessons for coaches at any level. Lucas details his practical approach to the unavoidable challenge of playing time conversations, the specific drills that built their balanced attack, and the emotional Father's Day moment when he embraced his 12-year-old son after the final out. Whether you're building a high school program or coaching at any level, this masterclass in culture-building demonstrates how adversity, properly channeled, becomes the foundation for ultimate success. The blueprint for champions isn't just found in talent—it's discovered in how a team responds when everything isn't going their way.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Ever wonder what happens when a Major League manager storms the field to argue a call? For Clint Hurdle, former Pittsburgh Pirates and Colorado Rockies manager, one such confrontation led to an unexpected humbling when an umpire refused to eject him, saying "I've had to watch this horrible baseball for four days. You're going to have to watch it too." It's just one of many candid insights Hurdle shares in this revealing conversation.

After spending decades in professional baseball, Hurdle now serves as special assistant to the Rockies' general manager, working with minor league affiliates and developing young talent. He calls it "probably one of the best jobs I've ever had—it just took me 45 years to get it." This role allows him to maintain family balance while sharing his baseball wisdom with the next generation.

Hurdle's coaching philosophy centers on making practice more challenging than games. Drawing from NBA coach Steve Kerr's experience guarding Michael Jordan in practice, Hurdle advises players to "trust the reps, work as hard as you can in practice so you can actually play in the game." He emphasizes connecting with players by finding common interests outside baseball—what he calls "coins"—creating relationships that transcend the sport.

On baseball's analytical evolution, Hurdle positions himself between traditions and innovations: "It's not old school versus new school, let's all be in school." This hybrid approach helped him navigate Pittsburgh's analytics-driven front office while maintaining his baseball instincts. He appreciates data's objectivity while acknowledging human development requires emotional intelligence.

Whether discussing coachability, parent relationships in high school sports, or small-market team challenges, Hurdle brings perspective shaped by almost five decades in baseball. His insights extend beyond strategy to the human elements that make baseball special. For coaches at any level looking to improve their approach, connect with players, or navigate baseball's changing landscape, Hurdle's wisdom is invaluable.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

What's destroying young pitchers' arms across America? The answer might be right there on the radar gun.

In this eye-opening episode, Coach Ken Carpenter tackles the alarming rise in serious arm injuries among youth and high school pitchers. Drawing from conversations with experts like Dr. Tom House and his own 27 years of coaching experience, Ken explores how the relentless pursuit of velocity—"chasing 90"—combined with year-round pitching schedules and early sport specialization is creating an epidemic of torn UCLs and Tommy John surgeries in teenagers.

Remember when kids threw footballs, rocks, and wiffle balls in the backyard? When baseball ended in summer, making way for football and basketball seasons? That natural athletic versatility created what Dr. House calls "neuroplasticity"—more neural pathways between brain and muscles that developed more complete, durable athletes. Today's young pitchers are missing that foundation, instead throwing max effort at showcases year-round without adequate rest or varied movement patterns.

The statistics are sobering: over 50% of Tommy John surgeries now happen to teenagers. As Coach Carpenter's pitching coach once said, "there's only so many bullets available to a pitcher," and today's young athletes are using them up before college. This episode challenges coaches, parents and players to reconsider their priorities: developing pitchers who can locate, change speeds, and maintain durability rather than just lighting up radar guns. After all, what good is throwing 90 mph in high school if your arm breaks down at 19?

Want to share your coaching perspective or story? Visit athlete1.net to request to be a guest on Baseball Coaches Unplugged and join the conversation about protecting young arms and the future of baseball.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Baseball's developmental landscape has undergone a massive shift in recent years. The glittering allure of travel baseball—with its showcases, fancy uniforms, and promises of exposure—has many believing it's the superior path to player development. But is it really?

Drawing from 27 years of high school coaching experience and 8 seasons in travel baseball, Coach Ken Carpenter delivers a thought-provoking analysis of what's truly best for young athletes. The fundamental difference? High school coaches develop student-athletes while travel programs often treat players as clients. This critical distinction changes everything about how players learn the game, handle adversity, and grow as individuals.

High school baseball offers something travel ball simply cannot: comprehensive development six days a week under coaches who see it all—the triumphs, failures, character under pressure, and classroom performance. These coaches teach players to compete rather than simply perform, to serve rather than expect privilege, and to represent something larger than themselves. Meanwhile, travel baseball's weekend tournament structure, often lacking accountability measures or developmental focus, frequently prioritizes exposure and winning over player growth.

College coaches still call high school coaches first when evaluating prospects—not for skills assessment, but to understand a player's character, work ethic, and response to adversity. As former MLB manager Joe Madden noted, today's system of over-specialization is burning kids out and filling their heads with false promises. The solution isn't eliminating travel baseball, but creating better collaboration between both worlds with proper oversight, certification requirements, and a shared commitment to what matters most: developing not just better baseball players, but better human beings.

Subscribe to Baseball Coaches Unplugged for weekly conversations with the game's best coaches who are preserving baseball's soul while navigating its changing landscape. Leave a review and share if you believe in putting player development before business.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

When Coach Will Gorden stepped off the plane in China to lead a development program for Major League Baseball, he faced an immediate challenge: coaching 42 young baseball players who didn't speak English. This experience became the foundation for his transformative coaching journey that would span three countries and reshape his approach to leadership.

"More than anything, I learned a new way to communicate," Gorden explains on Baseball Coaches Unplugged. "After working with those kids who didn't speak the language, I can do anything with anybody in the United States." These international experiences—from witnessing the meticulous batting practice routines of Chinese Taipei's team to observing the profound reverence Japanese players showed toward the game—provided Gordon with a unique perspective few American coaches possess.

Now back at Rockhurst High School in Missouri after stints coaching in China, Taiwan, and India, Gorden has implemented a coaching philosophy built around what he calls "service-minded leadership." Rather than following the traditional model where freshmen handle equipment duties, Gorden places this responsibility on his seniors. "If you want to be seen as a leader, you're serving your teammates," he explains. This approach teaches players that leadership isn't about privilege—it's about service to others.

Gorden's candid reflections on his evolution as a coach reveal profound wisdom. Where he once believed "there weren't enough sprints that would cure everything," experience has taught him adaptability. "Kids change and I have to be willing to adapt to that mindset as well," he shares. This growth mindset extends to his approach with parents, where he welcomes hard conversations about playing time—a topic many coaches avoid.

Perhaps most refreshing is Gorden's perspective on youth baseball. When coaching his nine-year-old son's team, which didn't win a game all season, his measure of success was beautifully simple: "I asked them all individually...did you have fun? They said yeah. And do you want to play again? Yeah. Okay, that's it. Then we did our job." In today's hyper-competitive youth sports landscape, this commitment to joy and development over trophies offers a powerful reminder of what truly matters.

Ready to transform your coaching philosophy? Subscribe to Baseball Coaches Unplugged for more conversations with innovative coaches who are changing the game one player at a time.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

What does it take to build a championship high school baseball program without flame-throwing pitchers or Division I talent? Wisconsin Hall of Fame coach Jeff Ryan pulls back the curtain on his old-school approach that's produced 438 wins and a state championship at small-school Prescott High.

Ryan's journey from milking cows on a hobby farm to becoming one of Wisconsin's most respected baseball minds reveals how traditional values translate to modern success. "Consistency, fairness, discipline, and professionalism," he shares, form the bedrock of his coaching philosophy. His 2012 state championship team epitomized these principles, displaying what he calls "quiet intensity"—a focused, unflappable demeanor that carried them to a 26-2 record despite not having a single pitcher who threw harder than 78 mph.

What truly sets Ryan's program apart is his meticulous attention to fundamentals. His teams spend 30 minutes every practice on scripted situations, mastering pickoff plays, controlling the running game, and executing defensive fundamentals that "steal outs" in crucial moments. Ryan's approach to middle infield defense—eschewing the common "alligator funnel" technique for a more precise method—exemplifies his willingness to embrace proven techniques over trendy methods.

Perhaps most remarkable is Ryan's candor about coaching's challenges. He considers making out the lineup card his most difficult task, understanding that his decisions affect not just players but entire families. His solution for surviving 27 years as a head coach? Setting clear boundaries with parents while maintaining unwavering consistency in how he treats every player, from stars to bench players.

Ready to transform your coaching approach? Discover why Jeff Ryan believes "baseball doesn't teach us how to win; it teaches us how to lose," and how this philosophy creates not just better players, but better people. Subscribe now to gain insights from one of high school baseball's most thoughtful practitioners.

Emphasizes four pillars of success: consistency, fairness, discipline, and professionalism
• Believes making out the lineup card is the most challenging aspect of coaching
• Credits his 2012 championship team's "quiet intensity" as key to their success
• Explains how small-school programs can compete through fundamentals rather than pure talent
• Advocates for 30 minutes of situational practice during each session
• Shares techniques for controlling the running game and "stealing outs" through pickoff plays
• Discusses the challenges of coaching longevity and managing parent relationships
• Focuses on infield defense, particularly middle infield play and bunting fundamentals
• Views baseball as teaching players how to lose with dignity more than how to win
• Maintains clear boundaries with parents to survive 27 years as head coach

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Nestled within the captivating world of collegiate baseball lies an extraordinary tale of transformation. Phil Schallenberger, head coach of Messiah University's baseball program, guides us through his team's remarkable journey from a disheartening 1-7 start to playing for the Division III College World Series championship.

The turning point came not through a strategic overhaul but a profound shift in perspective. After striking out 15 times against the #1 ranked team, Schallenberger embraced honest player feedback that would reshape their season: "Coach, it's not that you're communicating anything wrong—it's that it's being interpreted differently than intended." This vulnerability opened doors to authentic dialogue and a liberating team philosophy centered on purpose beyond outcomes.

Schallenberger reveals how creating a culture where conflict is valued rather than avoided became their secret weapon. "If there's no tension or friction, then you just have people saying yes because they think that's what they're supposed to do," he explains. This environment nurtured a team described by one veteran umpire as "the most unified and selfless team I've seen in 20+ years."

The conversation delves into practical strategies behind Messiah's explosive offense—stealing over 160 bases while breaking school home run records—and how removing fear fostered aggressive yet intelligent baseball. Drawing from his experience with the viral sensation Savannah Bananas, Schallenberger explains how incorporating fun and self-expression actually elevated their competitive edge.

Perhaps most compelling is Schallenberger's evolution from a coach who "hated losing more than loved winning" to one reporters called "the happiest coach I've ever seen lose a baseball game" after their championship defeat. His response? "Our identity truly isn't wrapped up in wins."

Whether you're a coach seeking to transform your program, a player looking to elevate your mental approach, or simply someone who appreciates stories of remarkable turnarounds, this conversation offers wisdom that transcends the diamond. Listen now to discover how surrendering outcomes might be your path to achieving what once seemed impossible.

Creating a culture where honest feedback and authentic communication thrive between coaches and players
• Embracing conflict as necessary for growth rather than something to be avoided
• Shifting from pressure-filled, outcome-focused baseball to playing with freedom and purpose
• Developing an aggressive base-running system that stole over 160 bases while maintaining an 80+% success rate
• Building a multi-dimensional offense that broke school home run records while remaining fundamentally sound
• Learning to surrender outcomes and find identity beyond baseball results
• Applying lessons from coaching with the Savannah Bananas to create an environment where players enjoy the game
• Encouraging players to embrace their personalities while maintaining competitive excellence

Join our podcast weekly for more insights from the best coaches in baseball as we break down the game and share incredible behind-the-scenes stories.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

The difference between consistently winning baseball programs and those that occasionally succeed isn't raw talent—it's the foundational elements Coach Ken Carpenter reveals in this powerful episode. Drawing from 27 years of coaching experience, Carpenter breaks down the eight critical characteristics that championship teams at every level share, from high school powerhouses to small programs that consistently punch above their weight.

At the heart of sustainable success is offensive production—specifically, scoring seven or more runs per game through quality at-bats throughout the lineup rather than relying on a couple of big hitters. Great teams combine this with defensive consistency, making routine plays look routine while building pitcher confidence. On the mound, strike-throwers who challenge hitters create the backbone of winning pitching staffs, while aggressive yet intelligent baserunning applies constant pressure that opponents eventually break under.

Carpenter details how exceptional catchers transform pitching staffs, why physical development creates hitters who can drive the ball with intent, and perhaps most critically, how championship culture and genuine belief in victory become self-fulfilling prophecies. "The best teams are brothers, not just teammates," Carpenter explains, "and that only happens when you invest in your culture every single day."

Whether you're coaching high school, travel ball, or college, this episode provides a clear roadmap to building a program that wins consistently rather than occasionally catching lightning in a bottle. Share this episode with another coach who's trying to build something special, and tune in every Wednesday for more insights that will elevate your coaching and your program.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Ever wonder how top high school baseball programs consistently develop winning cultures? Coach Blake Iles of Olathe East High School in Kansas pulls back the curtain on his coaching philosophy that's produced multiple 20+ win seasons and championships.

What makes Iles' approach unique is his genuine commitment to empowering those around him. His assistant coaches don't just stand around during games – they have "full control" over their areas of expertise. This delegation creates a coaching environment where everyone feels valued and players receive specialized instruction from coaches dedicated to their development. As Iles explains, dividing responsibilities allows him to focus on game management while ensuring players get the attention they deserve.

The conversation dives deep into player buy-in, with Iles sharing the remarkable story of transforming his second-best shortstop into a two-time All-State center fielder despite the player never having played outfield before. "That had nothing to do with me," Iles humbly reflects, "it had everything to do with him buying into saying, 'Hey, coach, you see this in me, I want to work hard at it.'" These moments of transformation happen when coaches communicate honestly and players embrace new challenges.

Transparency emerges as a cornerstone of Iles' coaching philosophy. Following advice from his mentor, he practices "brutal honesty" with players and parents alike. When dealing with playing time questions, he cuts through confusion with direct conversations about where players stand. While this approach might seem harsh initially, it creates clarity and trust. Players and parents might not always like what they hear, but they never have to wonder where they stand.

Perhaps most refreshing is Iles' emphasis on making baseball fun again. From blaring music during practices to giving players autonomy in game situations, he creates an environment where hard work and enjoyment coexist. "There's a reason baseball is called a game," he reminds us. "It's a game, it's meant to be fun."

Whether you're coaching high school baseball or leading a youth team, this episode offers practical wisdom for developing a program where players and coaches thrive. Subscribe now and learn how transparent communication, empowered assistants, and fun-focused practices might transform your coaching approach this season.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

The journey to a state baseball championship begins with preparation long before the tournament starts. Coach Al Zeiher of Saline High School in Michigan joins us to share his championship philosophy as his team readies for the playoff gauntlet.

We dive deep into Michigan's fascinating tournament format where matchups are determined by a random draw—athletic directors literally pulling popsicle sticks from a hat—with no seeding system whatsoever. This creates scenarios where top-ranked teams might face each other in the first round, making mental preparation and competitive mindset crucial from game one.

Coach Zeiher reveals what truly separates championship teams when raw talent is removed from the equation. "Tough culture. Guys that can handle pressure. They stick together as a team," he explains. The conversation explores how creating player-led teams with strong senior leadership builds programs capable of performing under pressure when everything is on the line.

Perhaps most compelling is Zeiher's perspective on failure. "Hate losing or love winning?" When asked this question, his answer reveals volumes about his coaching philosophy: "Hate losing... because losing forces you to grow." He describes how sometimes winning can mask problems while losses demand honest assessment and improvement—a mindset that has helped build his successful program.

Whether you're a coach preparing for your own tournament run or a baseball enthusiast interested in championship mentality, this episode delivers practical insights on developing competitive players who execute when it matters most. Join us for a masterclass in tournament preparation, team culture, and the little things that lead to championship success.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

The college baseball landscape has fundamentally changed, and today we're pulling back the curtain on the recruiting reality that coaches and players are facing nationwide. At the heart of this transformation is a critical choice: developing high school talent or tapping into the transfer portal for seasoned players.

When Oregon State's head coach Mitch Cannon candidly admits, "With a roster of 34, you don't have room to keep a whole bunch of guys around to develop," he's voicing what many coaches are thinking but few are saying aloud. The transfer portal has become the fast track to filling roster gaps with battle-tested talent. Need a lefty bat with gap power? There are 20 available right now. Lost your Friday night starter? A fifth-year senior might be ready to step in this weekend. For programs under pressure to win conference titles and make postseason runs, these immediate solutions are increasingly hard to resist.

Meanwhile, high school players find themselves competing not just against other teenagers but against grown men with years of college experience. This isn't just changing recruiting—it's transforming the developmental foundation of college baseball. The space for late bloomers is shrinking, replaced by a more transactional environment that values immediate contribution over potential. For players, parents, and coaches navigating this new reality, understanding these dynamics isn't optional—it's essential. Whether you're a young player with college aspirations or a coach rebuilding your roster, this episode provides crucial insights into baseball's recruiting revolution. Subscribe, share with someone who needs this perspective, and join us next Wednesday for another deep dive into the game we love.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

What does it take to build a high school baseball powerhouse ranked #1 in Arkansas and among the top 25 programs nationally? Coach Leighton Hardin of Conway High School pulls back the curtain on his championship formula.

The secret to Conway's "Wampus Cats" success starts with three non-negotiable values: team, toughness, and competitiveness. Coach Hardin demonstrates how following legendary coaches throughout his career prepared him to establish his own winning culture while respecting program traditions.

You'll discover Conway's innovative practice approach, including their game-changing pregame throwing routine that ensures players are mentally and physically ready from the first pitch. Hardin explains why practicing above game speed prepares his team for any situation they'll face in competition.

Perhaps most fascinating is how Conway adapted when faced with physical limitations. Without power hitters throughout the lineup, Harden implemented a specialized pitching strategy and small-ball approach that led to a state championship with an undersized team. His emphasis on two-strike hitting and situational baseball provides a masterclass in maximizing team strengths.

The mental side of baseball receives special attention as Coach Hardin shares his refreshing perspective on failure: "There was one perfect human that lived. It was about 2,000 years ago and that's none of us." This honest approach creates an environment where players develop resilience rather than fear of mistakes.

Beyond the diamond, Harden reveals his ultimate goal of developing "productive members of society, great husbands, great fathers" – demonstrating why Conway's success transcends wins and losses. Whether you coach baseball or simply appreciate leadership excellence, this conversation delivers practical wisdom you can apply immediately.

Ready to transform your coaching approach? Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a coach, player or parent who needs this perspective on building championship culture.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

When the rain washes out a week of games and the state tournament looms on the horizon, how do you keep your pitching staff ready? For Coach Jason Brandt, the answer might surprise you.

Coach Brandt of Wapakoneta High School has crafted one of Ohio's most consistent baseball programs through a philosophy that seems counterintuitive at first glance. "The later we get into the season, the less we practice," he reveals, explaining that rest becomes increasingly precious as tournament time approaches. This season, his team has surged to a 12-1 record despite fielding nine underclassmen among their regular players.

The conversation dives deep into the challenges of schedule disruptions and managing young arms during compressed game schedules. But it's Brandt's perspective on coaching evolution that truly resonates. After more than two decades leading the program, he's transitioned from what he describes as a "fiery" young coach to a more balanced leader who understands that "it's just a game and the kids aren't out there trying to lose." This growth hasn't come without memorable moments, including a hilarious story about falling off a bucket in the dugout during a crucial late-inning situation.

Beyond tactics, Brandt shares invaluable wisdom for aspiring coaches: conduct honest one-on-one conversations with players about their roles, surround yourself with loyal assistants (three of his are former players), and recognize the critical importance of youth programs in sustaining high school success. His approach has led to five district championships and two state final appearances – proving that sometimes the best coaching happens when you know when to back off and let players shine.

Ready to transform your coaching philosophy? Subscribe to Baseball Coaches Unplugged for weekly conversations with the most insightful minds in the game.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Winning changes everything—but not in the way most coaches think. Beyond the scoreboard and standings, victory triggers a fascinating biological transformation in the brain that makes future success more likely. Coach Ken Carpenter dives deep into "The Winner Effect," revealing how each hard-fought win releases testosterone and dopamine, rewiring neural pathways to create athletes who thrive under pressure rather than crumble.

The science is clear: players who experience meaningful victories develop increased confidence, better focus, and the ability to take calculated risks in clutch moments. But there's a crucial caveat—easy wins against weak competition or hollow praise don't create this effect. Instead, they breed complacency and entitlement that collapse at the first sign of adversity. Coaches who understand this distinction hold the key to building genuinely resilient teams.

Coach Carpenter shares practical strategies for implementing this knowledge, from creating small competitive scenarios in practice to shifting praise toward effort rather than talent. The middle infielders competing for the cleanest double-play turns. The "beat the coach" batting practice drill. These seemingly minor competitions stack up, creating the neurological foundation for clutch performance when the stakes are highest. "Confidence built on work sticks. Confidence built on compliments crumbles." It's not just a catchy phrase—it's backed by neuroscience. For coaches serious about developing players who rise to the occasion, this episode provides the blueprint for turning biology into championships. Subscribe and leave a review if you're ready to transform how your team approaches winning.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

What happens when American Legion baseball meets small-town Montana culture? Paul Mrazek, Director of the Montana Baseball Coaches Association and Head Coach for Cranbrook Post 24 Legion, takes us into a world where baseball thrives despite vast distances between communities and limited resources.

Montana's baseball landscape is evolving rapidly. After being one of just five states without high school baseball, Montana now boasts 35 high school programs in just three years. Rather than seeing this as competition, Legion baseball has adapted, creating a seamless transition from high school to Legion seasons that gives players more opportunities to develop and compete for championships.

The conversation takes a fascinating turn when Paul shares the remarkable story of Allie Schroeder, a female pitcher who joined his Legion team and dominated male competition. Hitting 82 mph on the radar gun and striking out 13 batters in six innings, Allie went on to become the first female in the Canadian College Baseball League before playing professionally in Australia and representing Team Canada. When not playing baseball, she fights forest fires, sometimes throwing baseballs against school fences in remote towns during her downtime.

Paul's development philosophy stands in stark contrast to today's velocity-obsessed culture. "I would rather they play for a long time than a short time," he explains, criticizing the push for young pitchers to throw harder before their bodies are ready. His approach has produced remarkable results – 43.75% of his players advance to college baseball, compared to the national average of just 7%.

The magic of Canada/Montana baseball lies in its community connections and multi-sport athletes. In towns where populations barely reach 5,000, Friday night games fill wooden grandstands reminiscent of "Bull Durham," and athletes must play multiple sports for teams to exist at all. This natural cross-training seems to benefit players' development and reduce injuries compared to year-round specialization.

Subscribe now to hear more stories of baseball innovation from unexpected places. How is your program developing players for long-term success rather than short-term velocity gains?

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Ever wonder why your son isn't in the starting lineup? The truth might surprise you.

Baseball isn't just about who can hit the ball farthest or throw the fastest pitch. High school coaches make tough decisions every single day about who plays and who sits – decisions that go far beyond raw talent. From academic performance and classroom behavior to practice effort and being a supportive teammate, the factors that determine playing time are complex and often invisible to parents watching from the stands.

I'll never forget the parent who approached me during a team cookout at IMG Academy in Florida to boldly declare that I was "what's keeping us from winning a state championship." That uncomfortable moment sparked an important reflection on the relationship between coaches, players, and parents. While that particular season ended in a heartbreaking 1-0 loss in the 10th inning of the district finals, the lessons remain relevant for baseball families everywhere.

Here's the uncomfortable truth many parents don't want to hear: sometimes the best way to support your child isn't by fighting their battles, but by stepping back. When parents rush to protect their sons from difficulty – whether it's limited playing time, batting lower in the lineup, or facing criticism – they rob them of the opportunity to develop resilience. In baseball, a game where even elite hitters fail seven out of ten times, learning from setbacks isn't just helpful; it's essential.

Whether you're a coach navigating lineup decisions or a parent supporting a player through ups and downs, remember that success in baseball and in life is earned through facing challenges head-on. The players who become leaders are those who learn to handle adversity without breaking. Trust the process, back the coaching staff, and let failure be the powerful teacher it's meant to be.

Ready to transform how you think about baseball development? Subscribe now for weekly insights that will change your approach to the game, whether you're in the dugout or the bleachers.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Johnny DeRing, head baseball coach at Buckeye Valley High School(OH), offers a masterclass in building successful high school baseball programs that goes far beyond traditional coaching wisdom.

The power of community stands at the heart of Buckeye Valley's baseball success. In this tight-knit, blue-collar community, parents and former players eagerly volunteer their expertise to transform facilities and support the program. When DeRing needed a bullpen built, community members stepped up with labor and materials, demonstrating how small-town commitment creates championship environments without massive budgets.

DeRing's philosophical approach to player development reveals why multi-sport athletes thrive in baseball. He shares compelling examples of how wrestlers bring unmatched mental toughness, football players develop critical agility, and golfers master the emotional control needed in pressure situations. At Buckeye Valley, where roughly 750 students attend, this cross-training approach strengthens all athletic programs while producing more complete baseball players.

Perhaps most revolutionary is DeRing's approach to pitching management and arm care. Beyond following OHSAA guidelines, his program implements a stricter "one hour of rest per pitch thrown" rule and comprehensive 45-minute pregame routines designed to have pitchers "third-inning ready" from the first pitch. This philosophy preserves arms for when games matter most—May tournament play.

Communication emerges as the common thread among all successful programs. From assistant coaches challenging his thinking to players constantly communicating on field and in dugouts, DeRing fosters an environment where baseball IQ flourishes through open dialogue. His veteran coaching staff—most with deep community ties—creates a perfect blend of experience and fresh thinking.

Tune in for candid discussions about the coaching lifestyle, balancing family commitments, and why loving winning beats hating losing every time. Whether you're a coach looking to build a stronger program or a baseball enthusiast seeking deeper insights, DeRing's wisdom offers a blueprint for success both on and off the diamond.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Baseball's beautiful chaos demands more than just careful planning—it requires thorough preparation. In this thought-provoking episode, Coach Ken Carpenter challenges conventional coaching wisdom by explaining why preparation consistently trumps planning when navigating the unpredictable nature of America's pastime.

Drawing from his 27 years of coaching experience, Coach Carpenter illuminates the fundamental difference between these approaches. Planning creates rigid roadmaps based on expectations—the perfect pitch sequence, the flawless double play—but crumbles when reality inevitably deviates from the script. True preparation, however, builds resilience, adaptability, and creativity that thrives amid baseball's inherent disorder.

Through practical examples like base running, Coach Carpenter demonstrates how prepared players develop the muscle memory and mental fortitude needed when the unexpected occurs. Rather than merely knowing how to execute a steal with textbook precision, prepared players understand what to do when the pitcher turns with a killer pickoff move or when the ball takes an unpredictable bounce.

The episode delves deeply into mental preparation—arguably baseball's most crucial element. While no amount of planning can fully account for striking out with bases loaded or handling late-inning pressure, proper preparation builds the psychological framework that allows players to bounce back, refocus, and perform under stress. Coach Ken Carpenter offers coaches a transformative question: "Stop asking what's the best-case scenario and start asking what's the worst-case scenario and how do we respond to it?"

Ready to transform your coaching approach? Subscribe now, share with fellow coaches, and join us every Wednesday for more insights that will elevate your program and prepare your players not just for the game you expect, but for the chaotic, beautiful game that actually unfolds.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Parker Byrd's journey from star high school shortstop to amputee baseball player at East Carolina University defies all conventional expectations. After committing to ECU as a freshman, his life took a devastating turn during a summer boating trip with teammates before his first college season. Caught beneath a boat's propeller, Parker suffered catastrophic injuries requiring 22 surgeries in 56 days and ultimately, the amputation of his right leg below the knee.

Most would assume a Division I baseball career was no longer possible. But when Parker expressed this fear to his mother in the hospital, her response changed everything: "There always has to be a first, why not you?" Those words sparked a transformation in Parker's mindset that fueled an extraordinary comeback.

The rehabilitation process revealed Parker's remarkable determination. Starting in a wheelchair doing visualization exercises, he progressed to performing one-handed drills while seated on a shower stool, then working with crutches, before finally receiving a proper running prosthetic with a split-foot design. With his hitting coach, Parker redeveloped his swing mechanics, discovering that a "scissor motion" technique could generate power without his natural ankle push-off.

What makes this story particularly powerful is the unwavering support from ECU head coach Cliff Godwin, who was the first person at the hospital after Parker's accident. In an era where the transfer portal offers easy replacements for injured players, Godwin's commitment to Parker transcended baseball. This loyalty, combined with Parker's faith and family support, created the foundation for his return to competitive play.

Parker made his collegiate debut on February 16, 2024, receiving a thunderous ovation from Pirate Nation that he describes as "louder than I've ever heard." Beyond the baseball achievement, Parker has embraced a greater purpose in inspiring others facing seemingly impossible challenges. His message is profoundly simple yet powerful: "Embrace adversity, love your neighbor, and trust in God's plan because He's going to lead you to something better."

Listen now to this extraordinary conversation about resilience, faith, and redefining what's possible when determination meets unwavering support. Parker Bird isn't just playing baseball with a prosthetic leg—he's showing us all how to transform life's greatest challenges into our most powerful purpose.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

"Winners rise, losers fall, and which one you become is entirely up to you." These words capture the essence of our deep dive into baseball's most defining moments – not the championship celebrations, but the crushing failures that reveal our true character.

When the pressure mounts and nothing goes your way, what happens next defines you as a player, coach, and person. Every baseball player faces adversity – strikeouts with bases loaded, dropped fly balls, lost games that should have been won. But the response to these moments creates a clear division between champions and also-rans. Winners take ownership, learn from mistakes, and show up ready to fight the next day. Losers make excuses, point fingers, and allow failure to define them.

The team dynamic during adversity tells an even more revealing story. Losing teams fracture under pressure, with the dugout becoming a battlefield of egos and blame. Championship teams, however, lean into each other when challenges arise. They understand the profound truth that baseball isn't about avoiding mistakes – it's about overcoming them together. This resilience built through baseball's trials becomes a foundation for life beyond the diamond, equipping players to face whatever curveballs come their way.

Are you building a winner's mentality in your program? Do your players find a way or find an excuse when faced with adversity? Join us to discover how championship cultures are forged not in victory celebrations but in the fire of challenges overcome. Subscribe now and transform how your team responds when everything's on the line.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Pat Bailey opens up about his remarkable 42-year baseball coaching journey that culminated in two national championships at Oregon State and D3 George Fox University. With a career spanning high school, Division III, and Division I baseball, Bailey offers a treasure trove of wisdom on what truly builds consistent winners.

Bailey's approach to recruiting and team-building is refreshingly countercultural. "Culture eats strategy for breakfast," he explains, detailing his three non-negotiable criteria: character, work ethic, and selflessness. This philosophy led him to prioritize high-achieving students (rarely recruiting players with GPAs below 3.5) and team-first personalities. The results speak for themselves—a whopping 813 collegiate wins and a pipeline of MLB talent including Adley Rutschman, Michael Conforto, and Stephen Kwan.

For coaches, Bailey delivers practical gold on outfield development, comparing outfielders to defensive backs in football where mistakes often cost multiple bases or even games. His systematic approach includes daily route work and structured drills to develop complete outfielders. When it comes to hitting, Bailey emphasizes attitude over mechanics: "Hitting is attitude, attitude, attitude," followed by approach and strike zone management.

Perhaps most compelling is Bailey's perspective on purpose. "Coaching is not about me. It's about helping other people and having an impact," he shares, explaining how he used baseball merely as a vehicle to develop young men of character. After retiring from coaching in 2020, Bailey now works with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, continuing his life's mission outside the dugout.

Whether you're coaching Little League or college baseball, Bailey's parting wisdom resonates: "Capture an athlete's heart and you capture the athlete." His legacy proves that when you focus on developing the person first, the championships often follow.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Step up to the plate and discover how to elevate your baseball coaching strategy by focusing on the small yet significant victories that define success on and off the field. In this captivating episode, Coach Ken Carpenter discusses the essential elements that contribute to winning games—emphasizing the crucial roles that every player, particularly pitchers and catchers, play in creating a winning atmosphere. Many coaches tirelessly work on flashy plays and big swings, forgetting that true success stems from consistently mastering the fundamental aspects of baseball.

We delve into the vital importance of pitchers being able to throw strikes and set the tone for a game. You'll learn how a reliable pitcher can nurture trust among teammates and create a supportive defense that rallies together. Catching goes beyond simply catching the ball—learn how effective communication and blocking wild pitches can save runs and enhance a team’s chances of victory.

The episode continues with an in-depth discussion on solid defense and the routine plays that everyone must consistently make to avoid costly errors. You'll find insights on aggressive base running as a strategy to pressure opposing defenses, helping to disrupt their momentum and create scoring opportunities.

Overall, this episode is a must-listen for any coach looking to instill a winning mindset in their team. Join us as we break down the tactics behind baseball’s most crucial battles, ensuring that you not only teach your players how to win but cultivate a culture of excellence that extends to every aspect of the game. Don’t miss out—subscribe now and learn how small victories translate into a successful season!

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Dive into the mind of Head Coach John Dowling, who recently guided McLean High School (VA) to its first state baseball championship. In this episode, Coach Dowling reflects on the thrilling journey of winning, delving into the mental adjustments necessary to maintain focus and manage increased expectations as reigning champions. He highlights the pivotal role assistant coaches play in the development of players, sharing insights on fostering a competitive spirit while nurturing young talent.

Throughout our discussion, Dowling emphasizes the art of creating competitive environments during practice, ensuring players not only develop technical skills but also the performance mindset crucial for success. He candidly shares advice on structuring a challenging schedule, acknowledging that tough match-ups are vital for genuine growth on the field.

Listeners will also gain invaluable insights into forming meaningful connections within the baseball community, a key ingredient in crafting a vibrant program that is fueled by enthusiasm and ongoing support. As the episode unfolds, Dowling’s vision for nurturing a culture of resilience and adaptability shines through, providing takeaways that apply to coaches, players, and sports enthusiasts alike. Don’t miss this deep dive into winning strategies and pivotal lessons learned in the game. Tune in, subscribe, and let us know your thoughts!

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

To cut, or not to cut? This age-old question plagues high school baseball coaches every season. On this episode of Baseball Coaches Unplugged, I, Coach Ken Carpenter, peel back the layers of this emotionally charged decision, exploring the pros and cons of roster management. You'll learn about the benefits of inclusivity and how keeping a full team can develop younger players, ensuring they have the time to fine-tune their skills. We also consider the strategic advantages of having a deep bench to account for unforeseen injuries or academic issues, and how it creates a competitive atmosphere that drives athletes to strive for greatness.

However, managing a large roster comes with its own set of challenges. Throughout our discussion, we confront the difficulties of balancing playing time and the frustration it can cause for those who feel sidelined. We tackle the tension between the need for individual coaching and the reality of being stretched too thin as a mentor. On the flip side, we tackle the tough reality of making cuts to streamline focus and enhance personalized coaching. Join me as we navigate these complexities, and gain insights into striking the delicate balance between inclusivity and effective team management.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

What drives a 40-year-old father to return to JUCO baseball after two liver transplants and a battle with cancer? Join me, Coach Ken Carpenter, as I sit down with Aaron Rouselle, who defies all odds and inspires with his incredible journey. Hear how Aaron's passion for baseball fuels his fight against adversity and how his background as a former athlete and CrossFit gym owner has equipped him with the mental and physical resilience needed to chase his dreams. This isn't just a story about baseball; it's about the indomitable spirit that defines the human experience.

Stepping onto the field as both a player and a mentor, Aaron shares the unique challenges and rewards of being significantly older than his teammates. Find out how he navigates the team dynamic, transforming initial skepticism into acceptance and respect. His role has evolved beyond just playing; through empathy and understanding, he's become a beacon of support and guidance, embodying the essence of mentorship. Explore the balance between maintaining a solution-oriented mindset and being emotionally attuned to the needs of others, fostering a supportive environment both on and off the field.

We also dive into the broader world of youth sports, addressing the pressures young athletes face and the impact of overzealous parenting. Discover why maintaining a genuine love for the game is crucial for fostering positive competition and resilience. Imagine legendary matchups on the field and the potential for a Major League Baseball salary cap to level the playing field. Through it all, Aaron's unwavering dedication to his baseball dreams serves as a reminder of the importance of passion, resilience, and the legacy we leave behind.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Unlock the secrets of elite baseball success with our special guest, the legendary coach Butch Chaffin, who brings an astonishing 38 years of experience, including working with USA Baseball. Gain insights from Butch as he uncovers what sets elite athletes apart from the rest: mental toughness and an insatiable love for competition. Discover how top players thrive by facing formidable opponents and maintaining unwavering confidence, and learn about the significance of nurturing a genuine love for the game in young athletes. Butch shares how instilling passion can help athletes embrace challenges and resist external pressures, setting the stage for a potentially extraordinary career in baseball.

In another riveting conversation, we tackle the challenge of building mental toughness in athletes. Drawing from personal military experience, we offer compelling anecdotes on overcoming fears and breaking through perceived limits. Find out how coaching can parallel military training by instilling a mission-driven mindset and fostering teamwork, transforming athletes into resilient competitors. This episode provides invaluable strategies for coaches and athletes alike, focusing on the journey of personal growth and unwavering determination. Join us for a deep dive into the mindset and skills that shape champions, and learn how these principles can be applied to sports and life.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

In this episode, we explore how baseball players can overcome performance slumps and the essential role that coaches play in this process. Through discussions on maintaining a positive mindset, refining fundamentals, and providing supportive coaching environments, we equip both players and coaches with tools to navigate these challenges.

• Understanding slumps and their impact on players
• Importance of maintaining a positive mindset
• Revisiting fundamentals to reset performance
• Role of mental preparation in overcoming slumps
• Creating a supportive coaching environment
- Strategies for breaking slumps into manageable parts
- Prioritizing your health

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Reach out and share your experiences with overcoming slumps! Your insights are invaluable to us!

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Discover the secrets behind balancing passion and performance in collegiate baseball as we chat with Ohio Wesleyan University's outfielder Sammy Stoner and Otterbein University's pitcher Luke Walter. These former high school teammates share their compelling journey from the carefree days of youth baseball to the intensely competitive world of college athletics. Listen as Sammy and Luke reminisce about their high school escapades while offering keen insights into adapting to higher expectations without losing the love for the game.

Sammy and Luke also open up about the challenges and rewards of being college athletes, particularly in D3. Their stories highlight the intense work ethic required to excel, and the unique perspectives each brings: Sammy as a dual-sport athlete juxtaposing the physical demands of football with baseball, and Luke detailing the rigorous preparation and recovery routine of a pitcher. Emphasizing that passion for the sport can lead to opportunities at any level, they share valuable lessons in dedication and resilience.

Wrapping up, Sammy and Luke reflect on their summer league experiences, drawing parallels to the minor leagues and the camaraderie that grows from playing with teammates from diverse backgrounds. They express gratitude for the relationships built through baseball and the significant influence of their coaches and community. This heartfelt conversation offers a fresh perspective on the profound impact sports have on personal growth and professional life, leaving listeners inspired by the power of teamwork and the enduring bonds formed on the field.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Discover the secrets to thriving youth baseball development with our special guest, Scott Anderson, the head baseball coach at Carmel Catholic High School in Illinois. Fresh from the ABCA Clinic in Washington, DC, Scott shares vital insights on prioritizing practice over tournaments and nurturing young pitchers. We explore the need for collaboration between high school and youth coaches to create a unified approach that ensures the growth and success of future players. If you've ever wondered about the real impact of early athlete rankings and the alarming trend of burnout by age 13, this episode offers a refreshing perspective focused on development over competition.

Transitioning into high school coaching, I share my journey of stepping into the shoes of a Hall of Fame coach and the challenges it presented. We discuss the importance of building a strong team culture through enhanced facilities, setting high expectations, and employing mental training techniques to compete with confidence against nationally ranked teams. Scott and I reflect on the significance of resilience and a positive mindset, and I recount a personal story about how my father taught me the value of hard work through regular snow shoveling. These experiences not only shaped my approach to coaching but also highlight the importance of maintaining a constructive attitude in the face of challenges.

As we shift our focus to college baseball, we unveil the unconventional paths players can take and the importance of trusting a coach or program over the competitive level. Scott introduces "Locker Room Central," an innovative app transforming how coaches and athletes communicate, track workloads, and ensure well-being. This tool is set to revolutionize how schools and facilities engage with athletes, promoting health and optimal performance. Join us as we wrap up with insights into effective coaching strategies and team dynamics, drawing parallels with other sports and emphasizing the qualities that make a great coach.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

In this episode, we explore the revolutionary potential of sidearm pitching as a game-changing strategy for baseball coaches. By unleashing the untapped talent of underutilized players through unconventional techniques, we discuss how to enhance team performance and create a unique pitching arsenal.

• The critical role of pitching in winning games
• Challenges faced by underutilized pitchers
• Benefits of adopting sidearm pitching techniques
• Strategic advantages when using sidearm pitchers
• Real-life success stories of transformed players
• Embracing unconventional methods for coaching success

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Discover what it takes to coach baseball in a city known for its relentless rain. Join me, Coach Ken Carpenter, and my guest Tim Lee, the head baseball coach at Ingram High School in Seattle, Washington, as we discuss how Seattle's unique weather impacts the game and the adaptations teams have made, like transitioning to turf fields. Tim shares his insights on managing a challenging season, his feature in Inside Pitch Magazine, and how local coaches collaborate to enhance performance. Prepare to elevate your coaching game as we explore strategies tailored for success in less-than-ideal conditions.

Unleash the power of passion in sports with us as we reveal why it is the cornerstone of athletic success beyond raw talent. Learn proven techniques to maintain composure and focus, such as box breathing and positive visualization, essentials not just on the field but in any high-stress scenario. We highlight the invaluable role of positive team members like Kevin Millar and how they can transform team dynamics, creating an environment where every player thrives, regardless of their role. This episode underscores the significance of individual contributions in building a cohesive, motivated, and successful team.

Venture into the world of youth baseball where recognizing each player's contribution is paramount. Hear about my journey founding the Shoreline Royals, a nonprofit summer travel baseball program that breaks the mold by offering affordable opportunities for young athletes. Explore the strategic balance required in high school baseball—between aggressive play and the precision of small ball tactics. Tim Lee and I share stories and strategies, from defensive drills to fostering player development, that are sure to inspire coaches everywhere to build not just teams, but communities of passionate, dedicated players.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

The episode features WVU Baseball Head CoachRandy and Amanda Mazey sharing their personal and professional journeys intertwined with baseball, relationships, and overcoming adversity. With stories of life both inside and out of the dugout, they emphasize the importance of connection, resilience, and the invaluable lessons that extend beyond the game.

• Randy reflects on the importance of building relationships in coaching
• Amanda shares her perspective as a coach's spouse and its challenges
• The couple discusses their son's near-fatal injury and recovery
• They emphasize the role of travel baseball in both development and familial dynamics
• The formation of the Team Whammer Foundation to support families in need is highlighted
• They share insights on the evolution of youth sports and maintaining a healthy balance
• Randy discusses what defines success in coaching

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

TPTl1iJKBulfXUiIm6W5

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Join us for a captivating journey into the world of baseball and cinema as we welcome Ben Orlando, the charismatic host of the Midnight Library of Baseball podcast. Ben reveals the heart and soul behind the iconic film "Field of Dreams," sharing insights from his exclusive interviews with the film's actors, director, and crew. This episode promises a treasure trove of behind-the-scenes stories, from the camaraderie among the cast to the serendipitous involvement of Kevin Costner, all of which contributed to the film's enduring impact on American culture and its nostalgic ties to baseball.

The magic of baseball comes alive as we explore the personal stories and historical narratives that shape this timeless sport. Hear about the overlooked tales in baseball history, like the mystery of Lou Gehrig's disease, and imagine a world where female knuckleball pitchers take center stage. Ben shares how revisiting beloved interests can reignite passion and transform personal challenges into compelling podcast narratives, illustrating the powerful intersections of sport, storytelling, and human connection.

Finally, we take you behind the camera to uncover the challenges and triumphs of bringing "Field of Dreams" to life, from a historic drought that threatened the cornfields to the innovative solutions that followed. Listen in as we celebrate the dedication of key figures like W.P. Kinsella and Phil Alden Robinson, whose vision and passion helped create this unforgettable cinematic experience. This is a heartfelt celebration of the magic that happens when baseball and storytelling collide, offering inspiration and joy to fans everywhere.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Discover the world of high school baseball coaching with Marysville High School's head coach, Nick Blake, as he sheds light on the unique challenges faced by Ohio teams. Ever wondered how a $575 pay-to-play fee affects team dynamics and family budgets? Coach Blake opens up about these financial pressures and shares strategies he's learned from top coaches to keep his program thriving. Listen as we discuss the advantages of having state-of-the-art facilities like an indoor hitting area and a brand-new weight room, crucial for staying competitive during Ohio's chilly months. Coach Blake also emphasizes the necessity of allowing players time away from the sport to fend off burnout and promote mental health.

Get inspired by innovative fundraising ideas that have bolstered the Marysville baseball team, including a successful bingo fundraiser that has become a financial boon for the program. Coach Blake explains how this initiative not only supports baseball but also benefits other sports within the school. The conversation delves into fostering community and family involvement, highlighting the unsung heroes who contribute to the program's achievements. We also explore possible changes to high school baseball, such as implementing three-game series in the postseason, and reflect on how celebrating team successes can sometimes outweigh the sting of losing. Join us as Coach Blake shares personal insights on achieving work-life balance while raising a young family close to the school.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Unlock the secrets to fostering a culture of respect and sportsmanship in your team as we navigate the complex world of coaching with wisdom from Coach Ken Carpenter. This episode of Baseball Coaches Unplugged addresses the critical issue of poor sportsmanship, as seen in recent college football incidents, and offers strategies to instill a mentality of winning with class. Drawing from 27 years of high school baseball coaching, Coach Ken shares compelling stories and practical techniques to help you inspire your players and reflect the true spirit of the sport, whether in victory or defeat.

Join us on this journey as we explore the profound impact of handling losses with dignity and maturity, revealing the deeper character of both players and coaches. We delve into the essence of respect on the field, emphasizing the importance of representing not just oneself but the entire sport. With insights that transcend baseball, this episode is a treasure trove for anyone passionate about coaching and leadership. Whether you're a seasoned coach or a baseball enthusiast, prepare to elevate your game philosophy and build a team culture that champions productivity and succes.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Prepare to transform your coaching approach as Coach Ken Carpenter opens the door to invaluable insights with Darren Ware, the pitching coach at Walsh University. Explore Darren's unique journey from teaching middle school science to guiding college pitchers, an adventure fueled by his connection with the legendary Tim Meade and unwavering family support. Discover Darren's strategies to create a culture of competition and camaraderie among his pitchers, ensuring not only their athletic success but also their personal growth. Gain a deeper understanding of the crucial role of arm care and structured training programs in preventing injuries and safeguarding pitchers’ careers.

Darren Ware shares the secrets behind Walsh University's pitcher recruitment, emphasizing the importance of both physical prowess and intangible qualities like leadership and character. Learn how weather conditions challenge pitcher management in early spring, especially in the northern climates, contrasting with teams in warmer areas. The conversation shifts towards building mental toughness, equipping pitchers to handle the escalating pressures of the season. Darren explains how a careful balance of physical preparation and mental resilience can lead to success on the mound, even under the most demanding circumstances.

Finally, join a heartfelt dialogue about the passion and purpose driving coaches to adapt their strategies. Ken and Darren discuss legendary figures in baseball and the emotional journey of coaching family members, highlighting the profound bonds sports create. This episode is a treasure trove for coaches, players, and baseball enthusiasts, offering strategies that inspire and elevate your understanding of the game. Whether you're on the mound or in the dugout, these insights will enhance your perspective and coaching philosophy.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Join us on Baseball Coaches Unplugged where you'll discover how Georgia baseball is at the forefront of a coaching revolution. Nick Pou, the transformational head coach at Jackson County High School, shares his insights into how coaching has shifted from merely focusing on the game to nurturing the whole player. Uncover the secrets behind Georgia's rich baseball culture and how it demands adaptability from coaches to cultivate both talented athletes and well-rounded individuals. Nick's experiences showcase how prioritizing personal growth and humility can lead to success on and off the field.

Explore the world of travel baseball through our experience with the USA Prime 16U team. Here, the art of building lasting relationships with players and their high school coaches becomes paramount. We dive into the challenges of ensuring pitcher safety and maintaining a healthy balance for young athletes. Gain valuable advice on choosing the right travel team for your child, emphasizing trust and the importance of observing team dynamics. The episode also tackles the tricky landscape of college baseball recruiting, including the impact of the transfer portal, and offers guidance for young players on making informed decisions beyond just the sport itself.

Finally, we share poignant stories and lessons from the travel baseball circuit, including how a contentious call during a game can teach invaluable lessons in sportsmanship and resilience. With the ongoing umpire shortage, we propose improvements to make officiating more appealing. Through an engaging interview with Nick Pou, we delve into the intricacies of high school baseball coaching, offering a treasure trove of insights for anyone passionate about the game. Whether you're a coach, player, or baseball enthusiast, this episode offers a rich tapestry of experiences and advice that extends well beyond the diamond.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Scott Manahan’s unexpected return to the world of baseball coaching is an inspiring tale that echoes Michael Corleone’s famous line from "The Godfather 3." After retiring from a stellar high school coaching career, Scott found himself drawn back into the game he loves at Capital University. In our conversation, he shares the unique challenges and joys of transitioning from high school to a Division III college program, offering invaluable insights for coaches contemplating a similar leap.

For families and aspiring college athletes, Scott sheds light on the crucial role of academic performance and work ethic in securing opportunities at the college level, especially in Division III. We dive into the often-overlooked financial realities of this level of college sports and offer guidance for managing time commitments, understanding the offseason grind, and navigating the transfer portal. Scott’s candid advice to high school coaches considering a move to college reminds us of the dedication and mindset needed to thrive in this competitive environment.

Our discussion also ventures into the balancing act that college athletes face as they juggle academics, athletics, and personal growth. Scott shares personal anecdotes that highlight the importance of building confidence, fostering teamwork, and setting realistic goals. We reflect on the complexities of travel baseball and the bittersweet lessons that both winning and losing bring. Finally, Scott unveils the coaches he’d choose to join him at Capital, emphasizing the delicate balance of striving for victory while never losing sight of the joy that sports bring. Join us for a rich tapestry of stories and insights that promise to resonate with coaches, players, and sports enthusiasts alike.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Unleash the secrets of mental toughness in high school baseball with Coach Ken Carpenter, who promises to transform your approach to the game. This episode is packed with strategies like visualization, goal setting, and the next play mentality, all aimed at developing a resilient mindset that thrives under pressure. Discover how focusing on process goals can empower players to control their performance, boosting confidence and perseverance regardless of immediate results. Coach Carpenter shares his 27 years of coaching wisdom, offering insights that not only elevate athletic performance but also equip players with invaluable life skills.

Explore the art of building a positive team culture where effort is celebrated over results, creating a motivated and respectful environment. Coach Carpenter sheds light on the power of positive self-talk to replace negative thoughts and maintain focus. This episode serves as a practical guide for coaches eager to enhance their team's mindset and for baseball enthusiasts curious about the mental intricacies of the game. Whether you're aiming to nurture mentally tough athletes or seeking inspiration for personal growth, this episode offers actionable techniques that transcend the baseball diamond, preparing players to tackle any challenge with confidence.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Unlock the secrets to transforming young athletes into team players and champions with Coach Ken Carpenter's insights. Ever wondered how today's MLB stars influence the attitudes and behaviors of high school and travel baseball players? We tackle the fine line between confidence and showboating, sharing stories like Ken Griffey Jr.'s genuine love for the game and the lessons from former player Ty Herriott. Discover how to encourage personal achievement without losing sight of the team spirit that makes baseball a uniquely collective endeavor.

Join us as we explore the core principles that define successful baseball programs: playing hard, playing smart, and supporting your teammates. Coach Ken Carpenter emphasizes the importance of focus and humility in striving for excellence both on and off the field. Learn practical strategies for instilling these values in your players, building a culture of productivity, respect, and success. Tune in for an engaging discussion filled with strategies and stories that will give you a competitive edge in nurturing tomorrow's baseball stars.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Unlock a new dimension of youth baseball with our special guest, David Klein, the visionary behind MP Legends. Discover why he believes the focus should shift from winning to development and how his creation, Speedball, is revolutionizing the game for young players. From learning multiple positions to maximizing participation, David offers a fresh perspective that prioritizes skill-building until players reach varsity-level baseball.

Explore the delicate balance between fostering a passion for baseball and avoiding burnout from over-scheduling in travel tournaments. Through personal anecdotes, we discuss playing for love over obligation and introduce Speed Bowl, a game born out of the pandemic. This innovative format allows smaller groups to safely enjoy real games while keeping the excitement of baseball alive, similar to adaptations in other sports like three-on-three basketball.

As we wrap up, I draw on my experiences as a former Division I player and high school coach to share valuable insights on preparing for a collegiate baseball career. From the importance of nutrition and rest to the transformative impact of a positive team culture, we cover all bases. Join us for a conversation that stretches beyond the field, touching on the unique dynamics of playoff baseball, the significance of participation trophies, and even a hypothetical World Series scenario. Whether you're a coach or a player, these insights are sure to inspire your baseball journey.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, sports coaching, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Ever wondered how the magic of a winning baseball program is crafted? Join us as Bill O'Connell, the respected head baseball coach at Braintree High School (MA), unveils his playbook for success. Discover how Bill's experiences as a multi-sport athlete in football, hockey, and baseball fuel his competitive edge and coaching strategies. He passionately advocates for athletes participating in multiple sports while offering unique pathways for baseball specialists through fall programs and college showcases. By taking young players into collegiate environments, he not only enhances their skills but also boosts their recruitment prospects. Coaches looking to ignite a competitive spirit in their teams will find Bill's insights both practical and inspiring.

Bill O'Connell opens up about his journey to becoming an impactful coach, shaped by his upbringing and the influence of demanding yet supportive mentors. Explore how he balances discipline with trust, maintaining direct communication with players while managing parental expectations. His innovative approach to practice, influenced by his football coaching background, focuses on situational training to ready players for high-pressure moments. Learn how Bill promotes baseball's growth through structured systems and robust youth programs, ensuring the sport's continued engagement at all levels. Aspiring coaches and baseball enthusiasts alike will appreciate the wealth of knowledge Bill shares, which goes beyond the diamond to building character and winning team culture.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, sports coaching, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Unlock the secrets of effective leadership in baseball as Coach Ken Carpenter shares three decades of coaching wisdom on Baseball Coaches Unplugged. Ever wondered how to transform your players' mentality and create a thriving team culture? This episode promises to equip you with unique strategies that go beyond just winning games. Discover how giving players a voice, regardless of their skill level, can revolutionize your team's dynamics, and learn from leadership icons like Colonel Craig Flowers and John Gordon, who emphasize the power of influence over authority.

Join us on a journey to redefine what it means to lead on the field. Coach Ken delves into the nuances of building trust and respect, illustrating how the best coaches don't just issue commands but truly listen and inspire. With insights on fostering a winning mentality that resonates with players, this episode is a must-listen for coaches and baseball enthusiasts eager to elevate their game. From insider tips on recruiting and coaching to the art of crafting a team culture that champions productivity, gain your competitive edge and transform your coaching approach today.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, sports coaching, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• Website - https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

What if an unranked high school team could go all the way to win the state championship against all odds? Join us as we sit down with Brad Burns, head baseball coach at Pleasure Ridge Parkway High School in Louisville, Kentucky, who led his team to the 2024 Kentucky State Championship. Coach Burns shares the heartwarming and inspiring journey of his players, especially highlighting the pivotal roles of nine dedicated seniors, only three of whom played in the title game. You'll gain insights into his strategic focus on maximizing defensive reps in practice and his unique approach to building a cohesive, resilient team.

Discover the character and leadership traits that defined Coach Burns' team as they consistently trailed in elimination games, only to come back with an incredible fighting spirit. Reflecting on the legacy of the legendary Coach Bill Miller, who influenced both his playing and coaching career, Coach Burns delves into the collaborative effort between seniors and underclassmen that made their victory possible. This episode not only honors the past but also showcases the unwavering team buy-in that was essential for their success.

Listen as Coach Burns discusses the philosophy of inclusive coaching, emphasizing the importance of honest communication and role assignment based on players' strengths. From the disciplined practice sessions at Pleasure Ridge Park High School to his collegiate experiences at Murray State University, Coach Burns illustrates how structure and work ethic prepare athletes for success. Additionally, we explore his journey integrating faith with coaching, balancing multiple roles, and the creation of the Baseball Pastor Podcast. To wrap it up, we have a lively debate on the greatest feats in Major League Baseball history, making this episode a must-listen for all baseball enthusiasts!

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, sports coaching, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Can failure be your greatest ally on the baseball field? Join us as we uncover how embracing setbacks can lead to extraordinary growth and resilience, transforming not just players, but entire teams. Drawing from my 27 years of coaching experience and insights from psychologist Dr. Carol Dweck, we explore how a growth mindset can turn frequent failures into powerful learning opportunities. We highlight inspiring stories like Derek Jeter's unwavering perseverance and the Kansas City Royals' epic 2015 ALDS comeback to illustrate how the game’s nature of constant setbacks can build mental toughness and emotional strength.

Transitioning our focus to high school athletes, we emphasize how baseball teaches life lessons that extend beyond the diamond. Most young athletes won’t play professionally, but the ability to handle setbacks and persevere is key in all walks of life. As coaches, our role is to guide them through failure, teaching resilience, curiosity, and determination. These skills not only forge better athletes and unified teams but also prepare them for future challenges in their careers and personal lives. Tune in to discover how fostering a culture that embraces failure can lead to greater success, both on and off the field.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, sports coaching, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Ever wondered how a high school baseball field can shape the game and the players who step onto it? Get ready to be inspired by Colin Seely, creator of High School Baseball Fields of America on X, as he shares his journey of celebrating these iconic fields and their unsung heroes—the coaches who keep them immaculate. Joined by first-time co-host Chris Huesman, we explore the transition from player to coach and the crucial role of assistant coaches in a team's success. Colin also opens up about his recent job change, offering a fresh perspective on how new environments can reinvigorate one's coaching approach.

Balancing personal relationships with professional responsibilities is no easy task, especially in high school baseball coaching. In this episode, Marysville HS (OH) assistant coach Colin Seely reflects on the mentorship that has shaped his coaching journey while discussing the importance of networking and building strong connections within the coaching community. We also delve into the physical demands of field preparation and the essential support system provided by assistant coaches. Discover how these dynamics foster an environment of teamwork and support, ultimately easing the head coach's burden and enhancing the overall team experience.

Prepare for a blend of nostalgia, humor, and heartfelt moments as we recount captivating coaching stories that define the high school baseball experience. From the intense sectional final game against Columbus Briggs to the unforgettable umpiring incident involving Tracy Molter, this episode is packed with memorable anecdotes. Colin and Chris offer valuable advice for assistant coaches moving into varsity roles, stressing the importance of building positive relationships with umpires. Join us as we celebrate the impactful bonds forged through sports and the shared passion that unites coaches, players, and fans alike.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, sports coaching, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Can harsh words from parents truly shatter a young athlete's spirit? Uncover the deep psychological impacts of negative parental feedback on high school baseball players in our latest episode of Baseball Coaches Unplugged. With 27 years of coaching experience, I, Ken Carpenter, share real-life scenarios and expert insights on how critical comments can erode a player's confidence, love for the game, and overall mental well-being. Learn why statements like "How could you miss that play?" often backfire, causing more harm than motivation.

Join us as we discuss effective strategies for parents to support their kids positively, even after a tough game. From nurturing their mental game to fostering a healthy team culture, we explore actionable steps that can help young athletes bounce back stronger. Whether you're a coach, parent, or simply passionate about baseball, this episode offers valuable perspectives on creating a supportive and empowering environment for young players. Discover how to turn every setback into a comeback with the right approach and encouragement.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, sports coaching, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Curious about how to transform your base running game and elevate your defensive skills? Join us in this episode of Baseball Coaches Unplugged where we promise you'll uncover the secrets to mastering these critical aspects of the game with Cody Dennis, former base running coach at Eckerd College and host of the Baseball Blueprint podcast. Cody takes us through his evolution from player to coach, shedding light on the unique hurdles of coaching peers and the groundbreaking strategies he's used to enhance performance at Capital University and Eckerd College.

Our conversation delves into the journey of becoming a confident and competent coach. By sharing personal stories of overcoming initial anxieties and learning how to effectively convey information to both seasoned professionals and eager athletes, we highlight the importance of understanding the "why" behind drills and techniques. Cody elaborates on his base running philosophy, shaped by the insights of Matt Talarico and Mike Roberts, emphasizing strategic thinking and field awareness. We also discuss how generational differences in players' responses to coaching demand adaptability and a tailored approach.

To conclude, we explore the intricacies of infielder development, emphasizing fundamental skills such as glove presentation, fluid movements, and footwork, especially for first basemen. Cody's passion for continuous learning and professional development shines through as he discusses his inspirations for starting the Baseball Blueprint Podcast. We wrap up with some exciting World Series predictions and reflect on the invaluable insights shared by incredible guests on Cody's podcast. Whether you're a coach, player, or baseball enthusiast, this episode is brimming with practical advice and inspirational stories from the world of baseball.

Join our podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of travel baseball, offering insights on baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, sports coaching, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the Show.

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Ever wondered what separates a good coach from an elite one? Learn from Ryan McGinnis, a two-time Wisconsin State Championship baseball coach and Athletic Director, as he shares the secrets behind his success and the indispensable role of high effort from everyone involved in the game. From players to umpires, Ryan discusses the expectation of giving one's best and the crucial qualities he seeks when hiring coaches. Our episode also takes you on a journey through Ryan's beloved Door County, Wisconsin, and reflects on how his formative years at a minor league ballpark influenced his approach to coaching and leadership.

Relive the nostalgia of a baseball-infused childhood and discover the essential virtues of humility and passion in sports. Drawing inspiration from his experiences as a bat boy, Ryan stresses the importance of staying humble and continually striving for improvement. He delves into the significance of understanding each player's unique background, balancing competitiveness with empathy, and fostering a supportive community. Ryan's reflections on receiving the ABCA ethics award emphasize the value of accountability and humility, drawing parallels to the humility exemplified by Jesus Christ.

Unlock the blueprint for effective coaching through meaningful communication and personal growth. Ryan offers insights into the attributes of elite coaches, focusing on active listening, continuous learning, and the courage required in leadership. From managing parent-coach dynamics to maintaining respect within the team, this episode is packed with practical advice for aspiring coaches. Learn how to foster a culture of respect and accountability, navigate umpire interactions, and support the development of young athletes. Join us for a wisdom-filled conversation that promises to elevate your coaching game and enrich your approach to leadership in baseball.

Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of travel baseball, offering insights on baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, sports coaching, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the Show.

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Join our podcast where experienced baseball coach Ken Carpenter delves into the world of travel baseball, offering insights on baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, sports coaching, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

The podcast helping baseball coaches get players bought into your philosophy to become more productive

The podcast helps coaches become better leaders to get their players bought into their game philosophy, to become more productive & win more games.

Support the Show.

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a text

Can you handle constructive criticism like a pro? Discover how mastering the art of receiving feedback can elevate your game and transform your approach to improvement. In this episode of Athlete 1 Podcast, we unpack the essentials of active listening, asking clarifying questions, and expressing gratitude when receiving feedback from coaches, teammates, and mentors. By focusing on the message rather than its delivery, you'll learn how to take feedback in stride and use it as a powerful tool for your growth as an athlete.

Join me, Ken Carpenter, as we explore strategies to combat defensiveness and separate feedback from personal value. Learn practical steps to stay positive, embrace mistakes, and seek specific plans for improvement. By the end of this episode, you'll have actionable insights to turn constructive criticism into a pathway for success in baseball and beyond. Plus, don’t miss the exciting news about Athlete 1 coming your way on September 4th!

Join our podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of travel baseball, offering insights on baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, sports coaching, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.

Support the Show.

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a Text Message.

Ever wondered what it takes to build a state championship-winning high school baseball team? Today, we're sitting down with Max Newill, the head coach at Bridgewater-Raritan High School in New Jersey, who will share the secrets behind his team's success. From setting sky-high standards and scheduling tough games to emphasizing consistent practice, Max reveals the blueprint for creating winners on and off the field. But it’s not all about baseball; Max also opens up about his family's passion for horse racing and his memorable summer trips to Saratoga and Phillies games.

In this engaging episode, we dive deep into the essence of competitive maturity and the importance of facing tough opponents to build a resilient team. Max explains his coaching philosophy, which balances intense practice sessions with the joy of celebrating big wins and fostering a positive team environment. He recounts personal anecdotes from his semi-pro baseball days, shedding light on the unpredictable and humorous moments that come with the game. Whether you're a coach, a player, or a sports enthusiast, this conversation is packed with insights on maintaining confidence without arrogance and ensuring every player understands their role in the team's success. Tune in for a unique blend of strategy, passion, and personal stories that make this episode a home run.

X - @brbaseball
IG - brhs_baseball

Support the Show.

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a Text Message.

What if your body language could make or break your athletic career? Join veteran high school baseball coach Ken Carpenter on Athlete 1 as he uncovers the extraordinary influence of non-verbal communication on sports performance and recruitment. This episode is packed with insights on how maintaining positive body language, even under the most intense pressure, can give athletes the edge they need to impress college scouts and elevate their game. Ken offers practical strategies for both players and coaches, emphasizing the importance of setting early expectations and modeling exemplary behavior to foster a resilient and confident team.

Players, this episode is a game-changer! Learn how to transform negative gestures into a powerhouse of confidence and focus. Ken dives into actionable techniques such as deep breathing exercises and visualization, designed to keep athletes composed and at their peak performance. Discover how to control your mindset and make a lasting impression on and off the field. Whether you're aiming for a college scholarship or striving to lead your team, mastering the art of body language is your key to success. Tune in to Athlete 1 and transform the way you think about your game!

Support the Show.

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a Text Message.

What role do parents really play in the success of young athletes? On this episode of the Athlete 1 Podcast, we sit down with three-time state champion head baseball coach Mark Monaghan, who has recently made a triumphant return to his alma mater, Starkville High School in Mississippi. Coach Monaghan takes us on a journey through his remarkable success at DeSoto Central High School, emphasizing the crucial support from parents that has been instrumental in his coaching career. He reveals his methods for keeping players composed under pressure and shares his excitement about revitalizing Starkville High School baseball. And you won't want to miss the jaw-dropping story at the end about a game-winning hit gone hilariously wrong.

In another engaging segment, we unravel the essence of resilience and team culture with Coach Monaghan, exploring how he prepares athletes for adversity and handles team dynamics. Addressing the often tricky terrain of parental concerns over playing time and college prospects, Coach Monaghan discusses the importance of setting clear expectations and prioritizing team spirit. He also shares his admiration for legendary figures like John Wooden, Derek Jeter, and Ron Polk, and recounts a riotous tale from the early 2000s that underscores the unpredictable nature of baseball. Whether you're a coach, player, or passionate fan, this episode is packed with insights and stories that promise to inspire and entertain.

Support the Show.

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a Text Message.

What if losing was more valuable than winning? Join us as we explore this intriguing idea with the legendary retired West Virginia University Head Baseball Coach Randy Mazey and his wife, Amanda Mazey. Randy takes us through his incredible journey of transforming a struggling baseball program into a state-supported powerhouse while Amanda shares her perspective as a supportive spouse and former TV sports reporter. Discover how Randy's retirement has brought a stress-free lifestyle filled with new hobbies and the joys of home life. This episode delves into the evolution of college baseball recruiting, the impact of coaching on young athletes, and the heartfelt story of their son's on-field accident, turning a personal tragedy into a mission to support other families in need.

In this conversation, Randy reflects on his 35-year coaching career, the deep appreciation he holds for the relationships built over the years, and the pride in transforming the WVU baseball program. Amanda offers a touching recount of the rewarding experiences of witnessing young athletes grow into mature adults. We also discuss the importance of balancing family life with travel baseball, advocating for kids to enjoy diverse experiences beyond sports. The Mazey"s share their passion for outdoor activities, gardening, and their podcast, “Mazey Days,” highlighting the importance of family time and the peacefulness of hobbies discovered in retirement.

Finally, Randy opens up about the valuable life lessons learned through coaching, emphasizing that losing can be a powerful teacher. He shares memorable umpire stories and reflects on alternative career paths fueled by his love for connecting with people. The episode culminates with an emotional recounting of his son Weston's severe head injury, the remarkable recovery, and how this journey has inspired them to support others in similar situations. Tune in for an episode filled with heartfelt stories, life lessons, and inspiration, as we celebrate the resilience and hope that define the Mazey family.

• Checkout the Mazey Days Podcast!

• teamwammer.com

Support the Show.

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Send us a Text Message.

Uncover the secrets to conquering performance anxiety in baseball from the unique perspective of sports psychologist Dr. Paige Roberts. As a former Division I athlete, Dr. Roberts shares her compelling journey of overcoming physical injuries and mental challenges that pushed her toward a career in sports psychology. We discuss how the slow pace of baseball can fuel anxiety and explore practical techniques to help players manage and reduce these feelings. Additionally, Dr. Roberts opens up about the profound impact of losing friends to suicide, emphasizing the critical importance of mental health support for athletes.

Discover the power of emotional processing for young athletes and learn why allowing children to express their feelings after games without parental interference can make a significant difference. This episode challenges traditional methods, advocating for a more holistic approach that involves addressing physical sensations and emotions. Learn how creating a safe space for young athletes to process their experiences can help release stored energy, reduce performance anxiety, and prevent negative consequences like substance abuse and a dysregulated nervous system.

Explore cutting-edge techniques to optimize sports performance, including brain spotting and energy alignment. Dr. Roberts explains how brain spotting, a method discovered by Dr. David Grand, can help athletes release stored negative experiences and improve their performance using eye manipulation and bilateral sounds. Practical examples, including work with Olympic athletes, illustrate the effectiveness of these approaches. Additionally, we discuss the benefits of whistling, humming, smiling, and belly breathing to achieve an alpha flow state, maintain a positive mindset, and visualize successful outcomes. Join us for an insightful session packed with actionable strategies to enhance mental readiness and performance in sports.

Support the Show.

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Ever wondered what it takes to build and sustain a championship-winning high school baseball program? Join us as Jess Smith, head baseball coach at Russellville High School, shares his incredible journey from being a college catcher to leading one of Alabama's top high school teams. Listen to how his transformative experiences and the legacy of former coaches Chris Heaps and Jay Stanley continue to shape the powerhouse that is Russellville's baseball team. Jess also gives us a glimpse into his life off the field, balancing his passion for coaching with a love for outdoor adventures like turkey hunting.

Shifting gears, we delve into the evolution of coaching styles, emphasizing the importance of intentional conversations and building genuine relationships with players. In an era dominated by social media and external pressures, it's more crucial than ever to earn players' trust and see them as whole individuals with unique lives and challenges. Reflecting on personal experiences, we offer invaluable advice for young athletes to embrace sacrifice, hard work, and the courage to remain committed to their dreams despite societal pressures.

Finally, we tackle the challenges and triumphs of travel baseball in Alabama, emphasizing the need for affordability and collaboration among all stakeholders to enhance player development. Jess shares memorable stories of intense high school baseball rivalries and the profound lessons learned from overcoming failure and transitioning coaches. With insights drawn from sports legends and a focus on relentless work ethic, this episode is an inspiring mix of personal stories, practical advice, and the passion that fuels successful coaching and athlete development. Don't miss out on these compelling tales and lessons from the field!

Support the Show.

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

What if a life-altering injury could become the catalyst for an extraordinary career? Join us as we sit down with Skylar Meade, head baseball coach at Troy University, to uncover the incredible path that took him from a promising college athlete at the University of Louisville to the helm of one of the nation's top baseball programs. Skylar opens up about the shoulder injury that changed his trajectory and the coaching principles he developed to ensure his players flourish under his guidance. Hear firsthand the stories of influential mentors and the pivotal moments that defined Skylar's journey.

College baseball is no longer just a game—it's a high-stakes arena with massive investments and intense pressures. We dive into the transformative changes within the sport, using Troy University's stunning $13 million stadium as a backdrop. Discover how the chaotic transfer portal, with its 4,000 athletes, has changed the recruiting game, and learn why Troy University stands out to recruits. Skylar shares the importance of passion and enthusiasm in building a strong team identity, and how these elements drive success both on and off the field.

Ever wondered what a day in the life of a collegiate baseball player looks like? Get an inside look at the grueling daily routines and the dedication required to excel. We discuss the critical role of multi-sport participation in high school and the physical demands of Division I baseball. As we gear up for the College World Series, we also share some personal anecdotes, including a humorous story about a teammate named Colby, and provide an analysis of standout teams. Through it all, we emphasize the importance of staying true to oneself and maintaining consistency as keys to lasting success.

Support the Show.

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Ever wondered how a Major League Baseball manager uses intentional ejections to boost team morale? Clint Hurdle, former manager of the Colorado Rockies and Pittsburgh Pirates, shares a treasure trove of stories from his illustrious career, combining humor and wisdom in equal measure. Join us as Clint reveals how his unexpected role in homeschooling his children during the COVID-19 pandemic helped him reconnect with his family in ways he never anticipated. This section is filled with heartfelt moments and amusing anecdotes that will make you both laugh and reflect.

Curious about what it takes to be an effective coach for young athletes today? Clint and I break down the essentials of concise communication and active listening, offering practical advice for making practice sessions tougher than games to build resilience. We dive into the evolving interests of modern athletes and discuss how to help them find their passion for the game amidst numerous distractions. This chapter is a goldmine for anyone involved in coaching or mentoring young players, offering actionable tips and insights that can make a real difference.

What does it mean to be coachable in today’s analytically-driven sports landscape? Clint provides a fascinating look at balancing new-age analytics with old-school values, sharing his experiences and lessons learned. We also tackle the challenges faced by small market teams and propose innovative solutions to level the playing field. Wrapping up with reflections on the emotional aspects of coaching, Clint shares why he prefers the love of winning over the hatred of losing. This episode is packed with professional reflections, personal anecdotes, and valuable lessons from a life dedicated to baseball. Don't miss out on these unique insights from one of the sport's most engaging personalities.

Support the Show.

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Discover how a winning culture triumphs over a fixation on metrics as Mike Stafford, the distinguished head baseball coach at Big Walnut High School, joins us to share his coaching philosophy. Mike dives into the art of instilling confidence in players and creating a team that can handle the pressures of the game regardless of their future baseball endeavors. From his transition from collegiate to high school coaching, we explore how to build and maintain a team dynamic where players with varying aspirations can flourish together, emphasizing the importance of a strong season start for team momentum.

Pitching success at the high school level goes beyond just raw talent. In a candid conversation, we unravel the essentials for developing high school pitchers, focusing on consistency, mental resilience, and strategic acumen. As a former pitching coach at Ohio State, I bring my insights on identifying Division I prospects, stressing the need for a strong routine, positive body language, and the ability to bounce back from adversity. We unpack how to prepare players for the unpredictable nature of the game, ensuring they're ready for whatever is thrown their way.

Wrapping up, we delve into the joys and challenges of coaching high school baseball and the anticipation of tournament season in Ohio. We discuss how the landscape of coaching and player development is evolving, highlighting the critical need for game intelligence and practical skills over mere statistics. Mike's enthusiasm for platforms that shine a spotlight on high school baseball, like the Athlete 1 Podcast, wraps up our conversation, which is sure to resonate with anyone passionate about the sport and the profound influence a coach can have on a player's trajectory.

Support the Show.

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Unpack the complexities of youth travel baseball with Ken Carpenter as we welcome Hall of Fame high school and current travel baseball coach Mike Yinger to the Athlete 1 Podcast. You'll get to the heart of what it takes to raise athletes in today's competitive landscape, from handling financial demands to encouraging multi-sport participation. This episode is not just another play-by-play; it's a candid and valuable playbook for anyone involved in youth sports.

Explore the fine line between fostering a competitive edge and ensuring player development with insights that go beyond the usual coach-speak. We tackle the often-overlooked topics, such as the effects of overzealous coaching on young pitchers and the evolving role of parents as their children mature in sports. Mike Yinger doesn't just share strategies; he shares stories that highlight the importance of integrity and skill in the game of baseball.

We touch on the dreams of young athletes aiming for college baseball and the guidance they require. Listen as we share powerful anecdotes that underscore the impact of thoughtful coaching and meaningful conversations. This episode isn't just about baseball; it's about the life lessons and lasting bonds formed when sportsmanship and genuine care are at the forefront of the game. Join us on the Athlete 1 Podcast for an episode that's a home run in revealing the true spirit of youth baseball.

Support the Show.

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Season two of the Athlete One Podcast hits the ground running with a double-header that's set to captivate baseball enthusiasts and sports fans alike. On May 15th, tune in for two podcasts to kick off season 2! Take a breather from your routine, and let's huddle up for a fascinating exploration with Clint Hurdle, the esteemed former skipper of the Colorado Rockies and the Pittsburgh Pirates. We're going off the beaten path, illuminating Clint's storied journey through the major leagues, not just as a manager but also as a formidable player. His experiences promise to spill over, offering a treasure trove of insights that's as close to a dugout chat as you can get without lacing up your cleats.

Joining the lineup, Mike Yinger steps into the batter's box to compare the competitive worlds of high school and travel baseball. With two sons deeply entrenched in the sport, Mike's frontline observations shed light on the evolving landscape of youth baseball. We're setting the stage for a riveting discussion that weaves through the nuances of coaching, player development, and the passion that drives the game. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just love a good sports story, this episode is your ticket to the behind-the-scenes action that shapes the future of baseball.

Support the Show.

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

As we cross the 100-episode finish line, I, Ken Carpenter, invite you to a celebration of human spirit through the lens of sports. It's more than just a century of episodes; it's a mosaic of victories, heartbreaks, and the resilience that defines both the athlete and the coach. We're pulling back the curtain on the gripping ascension of Tim Dillard to the major leagues, where humor meets the gravity of a lifelong dream unfolding amidst the grandeur of a Washington D.C. stadium. And in the spirit of true self-discovery, we applaud the courage of a young football player who breaks from tradition to forge his own destiny, teaching us that the bravest play can sometimes be the one made off the field.

Turn the pages of our podcast's history book as we navigate through a spectrum of tales, from a scout's happenstance discovery to a community's perseverance following unimaginable loss. Hear from Bluffton University's head coach James Grandey on the transformation through tragedy, and witness the evolution of team dynamics with insights from strength coach Lewis Carella and head coach Tom Held. Their stories, rich with the wisdom of experience, remind us that the heart of sports lies not only in the game itself but in the indelible bonds and life lessons that echo long after the final whistle.

Ending on a poignant note, we transport you back to a time of national turmoil, revisiting the profound influence that the Kent State shootings had on a college baseball team and the season that almost wasn't. Recounting the triumphs and trials of a bygone era, we celebrate the timeless camaraderie and nostalgia that enshrine these athletes and their stories into the annals of the Athlete 1 Podcast. So join me for this centennial episode—a heartfelt homage to the beauty, humor, and enduring spirit of sports.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Every seasoned player knows the crack of the bat isn't just about hits and home runs; it's about the life lessons learned on the diamond. Sit back as I, Ken Carpenter, chat with Otterbein University's esteemed baseball head coach, George Powell. Celebrating his 600th career win, Coach Powell doesn't just recount his victories but shares the heart of the game, the mentorship that shapes young players, and the life-changing moments that reverberate far beyond the outfield.

Strap in for an emotional journey through the annals of baseball, where passion and resilience triumph over adversity. As we explore the profound influence of mentors and family, Coach Powell and I dissect the recruitment minefield of Division III baseball, where the next MVP could be the walk-on no one saw coming. You'll hear firsthand how technology's seismic shift has turned recruiting on its head, forcing coaches to adapt or be left in the dust. This episode isn't just a playbook rundown; it's a testament to the human spirit woven into the fabric of America's favorite pastime.

As we round third and head for home, get ready for tales that capture the essence of coaching. From a varsity record that'll have you on the edge of your seat to the under-the-radar players who became the heroes of their own stories, these anecdotes are not just about baseball—they're about the indelible marks left on those who live and breathe the sport. Lean in as we pay homage to the unsung heroes off the field, the assistant coaches whose strategies and support are the game's backbone. This episode is more than a game recap; it's a celebration of the journey, the people, and the love of the game that connects us all.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Have you ever wondered what it's like to stand at the helm of a high school baseball team, to orchestrate a victory from the dugout, or to mold young athletes into champions both on and off the field? Tom Neubert, the esteemed head coach at DeSales High School, joins us to paint a vivid picture of the high-stakes world of high school baseball. His tales of nail-biting victories, intense rivalries, and the camaraderie among coaches will leave you on the edge of your seat, while his insights on fostering personal growth in players will touch your heart.

This chat isn't just about the thrill of the game; it's an exploration of the deep connections that are forged in the crucible of competition. Coach Neubert recounts a near-catastrophic error that could have spelled disaster for his team, but instead became a lesson in resilience and determination. He opens up about the paramount importance of relationships in coaching, diving into how the dynamics of managing egos can outweigh even the most intricate play-calling strategies. It's a candid look into how high school sports are about much more than just winning games.

As we cover the bases, we also take a swing at understanding the evolving landscape of high school baseball, from the nuances of player recruitment to the impact of travel ball on team dynamics. Coach Neubert doesn't shy away from discussing the challenges of fitting athletics into the educational journey of his players, nor does he ignore the elephant in the stadium—the psychological toll of losing and the ever-present parental pressure. Strap in for a conversation that reveals the soul of high school baseball and the unwavering spirit of those who lead the charge from the dugout.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Join us as coach DJ Butler of Barnesville High School (OH) sits across from me, Ken Carpenter, and we unravel the playbook to success that transcends mere wins and losses. We dissect the crucial foundations set by youth programs and the ethos of self-improvement that can turn any coach into an architect of victory. Our conversation ventures into the unique terrain of small-town sports, where each player's contribution is magnified, and the challenges of indoor practices are met with inventive strategies.

The echoes of cheers from the Ohio Valley are still fresh as we reminisce about the high school baseball team's heart-stopping journey through a regional tournament. Making their second appearance in the state final four. It's a tale of perseverance, community bonds, and the embrace of chance moments that can define a season. We recount the energy of a 12-inning game that danced with the twilight and reflect on the deep-rooted support systems from parents, administrators, and entire towns that fuel the passion and dedication of long-standing coaches like Coach Butler.

But what about when the cleats are off, and it's time to address the delicate waltz between coaches, parents, and athletes? Sharing from my own coaching playbook, I open up about the strategies that foster clear communication, respect, and understanding within the team's extended family. We pay homage to the value of alumni in linking the past with the present and future of the program. It's not just a game; it's a lineage of shared experiences and wisdom that Coach Butler and I are thrilled to pass on to you, our engaged listeners, in a discussion that's as enriching as it is enlightening.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

When life throws a curveball, how do we strike back? Nick Sweeney, a former Division I cross-country skier, joins us to recount his harrowing journey from Olympic aspirations to the depths of depression following a career-halting injury. His powerful narrative is not just about sports; it's a roadmap for anyone facing their own personal mountains. Through Nick's eyes, we learn the profound impact of breathwork—a seemingly simple practice with the strength to transform both body and mind.

Feel the rhythm of your own breath as we venture deeper into the mechanics of how intentional breathing can revolutionize performance. Nick unveils the secret weapon that helped him find mental clarity and peak athletic prowess, despite physical constraints. This episode is a treasure trove for enthusiasts aiming to sharpen their focus and harness their inner willpower. Whether you're stepping onto the field, preparing for a major presentation, or navigating daily stresses, the wisdom shared by Nick is your gateway to achieving a state of flow and unlocking your full potential.

Embarking on this episode, we also peel back the layers of what it truly means to trust the process in the competitive realm. From overcoming mental blocks with breathwork to the transformative influence of nature on our health, Nick's insights offer a guiding light. His accessible coaching philosophy, aimed at supporting athletes and entrepreneurs alike, provides a holistic approach for those looking to build resilience and make strides in their personal and professional lives. Join us as we converse with Nick Sweeney, whose story and strategies promise to inspire and bolster your resolve, no matter the challenge ahead.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Discover the secrets of peak athletic performance with high school baseball coaching phenom Jeff Boulware, as we dissect the mental game in our most recent podcast episode. With his background at Bishop Watterston High School, Jeff brings to the table a wealth of knowledge on building confidence, combating negative self-talk, and the surprising influence of maintaining a neutral mindset. His insights provide a playbook for anyone looking to foster resilience in the face of adversity, much like the lesson we learn from the legacy of players such as Bill Buckner.

When it comes to shaping the future leaders of the diamond, it's not just about the game—it's about cultivating character. That's why we take a close look at the integral role of trust and decision-making in coaching, the art of delegation, and the developing culture beyond the scoreboard. Jeff and I get into the nitty-gritty of guiding high school athletes through their journeys to college baseball, weighing the implications of the transfer portal and the vital importance of finding a college experience that enriches life both on and off the field.

Our conversation takes a turn into the intimate corners of coaching, where family ties and sportsmanship intertwine with strategy and playbooks. Laugh along with us at the lighter moments of the sport, including a misadventure with an assistant coach named Nippy, and get inspired by the way we integrate mindfulness and respect into the game. Rapid-fire questions peel back the layers of Jeff's coaching philosophy, revealing the sports legends he admires, and the values that steer his decisions. Join us for an episode that's as heartwarming and informative as it is a testament to Jeff Boulware's unwavering dedication to his players and the game of baseball.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Ever found yourself bewildered by an athlete's sudden plunge from grace during those do-or-die moments? Get ready to unravel the mystery behind high-stakes underperformance—or as we commonly call it, 'choking'—in the latest episode of Athlete 1 . Host Ken Carpenter, a seasoned high school baseball coach, strips down the psychological armor to reveal the tender spots of anxiety, fear of failure, and the crushing weight of expectations that turn formidable players into bundles of nerves when the game is on the line.

This episode isn't just about the problem, though—it's a treasure trove of strategies designed to help athletes flip the script on pressure. You'll discover how to harness the potent mix of mental, physical, and emotional preparation, transforming what once was a foe into the ultimate ally. From the art of positive thinking and visualization to the anchoring practice of deep breathing, Ken lays out a game plan for athletes to stay composed and excel. No quick fixes, just tried-and-true methods that allow players to navigate the stormy seas of competition with the poise of a seasoned captain. Join us as we empower athletes to seize the moment and shine when it's all on the line.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

As a coach, the leap from guiding my own kid's team to nurturing a high school squad was as thrilling as it was daunting; it's a transformation that's as much about the heart as it is about the playbook. That's why I was eager to sit down with Jimmy Filingeri, the head coach at Lourdes High School and the voice behind the Clearing the Bases Podcast. Together, we peel back the curtain on the life of a high school baseball coach, discussing how to foster trust through genuine care, the art of creating a competitive edge in practice, and the subtle yet impactful differences in team selection from one coaching role to the next. Jimmy's wisdom is a treasure trove for anyone stepping up to the plate as a new head coach.

Laughter and candid stories punctuate this episode as we reflect on the evolution of youth sports and the transformative journey from athlete to mentor. Coach Filingeri shares an amusing tale about his early coaching days, involving my son and a bunting strategy that raised a few eyebrows, showing that the path to coaching success is often paved with unexpected decisions. The episode also touches on the critical role of parents in reinforcing team goals, and we navigate the tricky waters of honest communication with players about performance and playtime.

In the home stretch, we take you behind the scenes of the Clearing the Bases podcast, revealing how a player's parent and an inspirational encounter led to its launch. The conversation shifts from lighthearted banter to earnest dreams as I list my fantasy podcast guests and their unparalleled impact on the game. Wrapping things up, Coach Jimmy and I engage in a lively debate over a fantasy baseball scenario, pitting two iconic Yankee lineups against each other. It's a testament to the enduring admiration and strategic intrigue that baseball instills in us, and a fitting end to an episode rich with insights and the indomitable spirit of the game.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

When Bill Murray crashes your post-game interview, you know you're in for a story worth sharing. Join us as I sit down with Jeff Letourneau, pitching coach and baseball sage, to recount an iconic moment that marries the worlds of comedy and sports. Through Jeff's eyes, we travel from an uproarious interaction with a comedic legend to the ins and outs of mentoring young Guilford High School pitchers, blending tales of on-field triumphs with the camaraderie that fills off-season golf rounds.

Baseball is more than a game; it's a series of life lessons wrapped in nine innings. This episode peels back the layers of coaching, revealing how Jeff and I instill resilience and humility in players, with anecdotes that underscore the unpredictable nature of sports. Every strike, every catch, every close call is dissected—not just for the play-by-play, but for the heartbeat of growth and character it instills in the athletes we guide. Standout high school performances, personal coaching experiences, and the art of bouncing back from setbacks all take center stage, painting a vivid picture of the local diamond.

But it's not just the balls and strikes that define a player's journey; it's the connections made along the way. Jeff shares his transformative experience from a traditional pitcher to a knuckleballer, and the serendipitous meetings that shaped his path. And as we veer into tales from the St. Paul Saints and anecdotal gems involving Bill Murray, you'll find yourself immersed in the rich narrative tapestry of baseball life. So tune in, and let's explore how passion for the game, mentorship, and a few unexpected turns can make all the difference on and off the field.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Discover the transformative journey of Reggie Hollins, from player to revered coach and Tuskegee University Hall of Fame inductee and former head coach, alongside the wisdom of Coach Johnny Johnson of James Clemens High School that goes beyond the baseball diamond. This heartfelt conversation with two bastions of the sport illuminates not just the importance of self-belief and the storied legacy of Tuskegee University but also the way sports shape lives through teamwork, class, and teaching life's crucial lessons. As Reggie and Johnny unravel their stories, we see the deep influence of baseball on community, respect, and how the game fosters unity and resilience across different walks of life.

Coach Hollins shares how he's making a huge impact with minority baseball players across the country. He head up the Minority Baseball Prospects. An organization that has produced 55 MLB Draft Picks | 455 Collegiate Baseball Signees | 10,000+ Served in Free Youth Clinics

Amidst the cracking of bats and the cheers of the crowd, we delve into the pressing issues of modern youth baseball—the evolution from simple recreational leagues to the bustling world of travel teams—and how this impacts families financially. We shine a light on the Open Borders Sports Foundation and its noble pursuit to nurture the sport in underserved areas like St. Martin (Caribbean), providing not just financial aid but coaching and resources to young athletes hungry for growth. Our episode doesn't just celebrate the milestones; it's a clarion call to support the Open Borders initiative's and Minority Baseball Prospects dedication to elevating the raw talent and ensuring that the legacy of baseball remains as rich and inspiring as ever.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Have you ever witnessed the intensity in the eyes of a parent at a high school sports game? It's a gaze that goes beyond pride and enters the realm of fierce competitiveness. As your host, I'm taking you through the profound effects parents have on the high school sports scene. The game has changed, and not just for the athletes - coaches, referees, and the community feel the heat too. I'm pulling back the curtain to reveal how an excessive focus on scholarships and victory is dimming the light on what sports are truly about: joy, learning, and the unity forged through teamwork. This conversation is an urgent appeal for a community-wide reflection, fostering a shift where respect and passion for the game outshine a win-at-all-costs attitude.

As the holiday season wraps us in its warm embrace, I'm extending a heartfelt thanks to you, our listeners, and the inspirational guests who've shared their athletic stories on the Athlete 1 podcast. Your support fuels the spirit of our podcast family, and it's been an incredible journey of growth and connection through sportsmanship. If you're an individual with a sports journey to tell, consider this an invitation to join our conversation. Here's to celebrating another year rich with compelling narratives that capture the essence of why we play the game. I'm Ken Carpenter, excited to continue sharing the triumphs and challenges that define our love for sports.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

What if you could peek behind the curtain of a high school baseball team on the brink of victory, guided by a young, first year head coach? Join your host on the Athlete One Podcast for an insider look at the world of high school baseball, as we chat with Cody Paterniti, the first-year head coach at Licking Heights High School. Discover his unique approach to building trust, his penchant for blurring the line between coach and friend, and his ability to harness the power of senior players' input to secure a conference championship.

Our journey doesn't stop there. We navigate the intricacies of being a young coach, exploring the advantages and challenges alike. We're joined by a guest who shares his journey and how his age helped him resonate with his players. With the wisdom of his experiences under coaches like Jim Clark--from his time at Notre Dame Cathedral Latin and Ohio Dominican University--he brings a different perspective to the team and game, one that emphasizes trust and teamwork.

As we wrap up, we delve into the impact of baseball on our professional life, sharing how this sport teaches invaluable lessons about teamwork and relationships. We explore the successful strategies in high school baseball and the role of understanding the 'why' behind them, inspired by the legendary Mike Tomlin of the Pittsburgh Steelers. From discussing potential changes in college football playoffs to acknowledging the role of technology in sports training, we cover it all. So, tune in for a riveting conversation that promises to provide a fresh perspective on high school baseball and beyond.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Get ready to experience the adrenaline rush as we dissect one of the biggest rivalries in college football - "The Game" Ohio State vs. Michigan. Joining us for today's exhilarating match-up discourse is none other than Zach Smith, former coach at Ohio State and host of the Menace 2 Sports podcast. In this episode, you'll get an insider's perspective on this notorious rivalry, from the exhilarating stories of on-field competition to the shocking details of a recent Michigan cheating scandal. Zach's unique insights provide a fresh lens to interpret what this rivalry truly means to the players, the coaches and the ardent fans.

We won't stop at stories from the past, we're also scrutinizing the future, specifically the much-anticipated rivalry game between Ohio State and Michigan. We're spotlighting the key elements that could tip the scales - team strengths and weaknesses, quarterback performance and the potential game-changing impact of injuries. Plus, we're getting you an exclusive on Ohio State's current starting quarterback, Kyle McCord, and his future with the team. So, buckle up as we traverse through the passionate, unpredictable and inspiring world of college football, where rivalry is not just about a game, but a tradition that continues to shape lives.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

What does it take to craft a winning baseball program in a rural school district? How do you navigate the unique challenges and rewards that come with it? As your host, we're bringing you an in-depth conversation with three highly experienced baseball coaches - Travis Church, Randy Leach, and Buck Workman. They share their journey of building and nurturing successful baseball programs, the struggles they encountered, and the triumphs they cherish.

From forging strong bonds with players to instilling a robust sense of camaraderie, we explore the intricacies of coaching in rural districts. We discuss the pressures of playing against other league teams, maintaining a competitive spirit, and of course, the mutual respect these coaches share for each other. Building a strong baseball program isn't just about the game; it involves shaping the character of the players, setting high expectations, and teaching them the value of a solid work ethic.

As we venture further into the conversation, we delve into some personal experiences, such as the challenges of coaching one's own children and the pressures that come with it. We also shed light on the significance of good sportsmanship, the necessity for correct calls on the field, and its impact on players. Join us as we recount cherished memories of successful coaches Randy Leach, Travis Church, Buck Workman and host Ken Carpenter, and their lasting impact on their teams. This episode is an ode to their unwavering dedication, humor, and commitment to their players and fans.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Immerse yourself in the wisdom of three-time national champion and legendary strength and conditioning coach, Tommy Moffitt. As the former head coach at LSU, Tommy knows a thing or two about molding athletes into champions. Join us, as he opens up about the intricate details of the Moffitt Method, his tried and tested strength training program that is proven successful in schools and for individual workouts. You'll feel like you're right there in the weight room with him as he passionately discusses the importance of strength training and the foundations of physical and mental toughness in athletes.

Fancy adding a bit of joy and fun to your training routine? Tommy's got you covered. He regales us with stories of introducing young athletes to the weight room and turning strength training into an enjoyable activity. In fact, he even walks us through his experience of teaching his son and friends the basics of weightlifting. Hear how he used his time as a high school coach to instill the importance of engaging yet effective training in young athletes, with a strong focus on core exercises and correct techniques.

But that's not all. Tommy is a coach of the modern age, making the most out of technology in his training approach. He introduces us to his revolutionary remote coaching tool, a customizable program with features like weekly updates, daily email reminders, live feeds, and leaderboards. The potential of this tool for both individual and team training is immense. We also delve into the importance of flexible and varied training in athletics. With Moffitt's method, athletes are guaranteed to get the most out of their workouts. So, brace yourselves for an enlightening conversation with a true champion maker. You won't want to miss it!

moffittmethod.fit

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Get ready for a riveting journey as we sit down with Tommy Moffitt (LSU/Miami/Tennessee), the revered godfather of college football strength and conditioning. Moffitt, who has worked with powerhouse coaches like Nick Saban, Les Miles, and Ed Orgeron at LSU, spills the beans on everything from Saban's meticulous planning to the chaos of the locker rooms at halftime. You won't want to miss his intimate stories about these legendary coaches.

In our chat, Moffitt shares his insights on the particularly victorious teams of 2003, 2007, and 2019, as well as those that were good but didn't quite make it to the championship. We also discuss the massive impact quarterback Joe Burrow had at LSU. His thoughts on why Joe Burrow will be a better quaterback than HOF'er Peyton Manning. And, of course, we had to touch on the SEC's views towards the Big Ten and Ohio State. Prepare for an engrossing episode filled with heartfelt stories and exciting insights from one of the true titans in college football strength and conditioning.

@Tommy Moffitt
@MoffittMethod

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

How often have we heard the phrase, "Failure is the stepping stone to success"? But what does it truly mean in the world of sports? How do we make sense of a missed shot, a fumbled ball, a lost game? I'm Ken Carpenter, and in this episode of Athlete 1, we explore the concept of failure, not as a dead end, but as a golden opportunity for learning and growth.

Get ready for a hard-hitting discussion on mental toughness, resilience, and the power of a growth mindset. Drawing wisdom from the life and experiences of iconic athletes like Michael Jordan, we dive deep into the art of turning negatives into positives. We understand how failure, often dreaded and feared, can be viewed as a setup for success, and how it can mold our athletes into stronger individuals, both on and off the field. So, are you ready to embrace failure, learn and bounce back stronger? Join me in this enlightening episode and discover how failure can be your secret weapon for success.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Are you ready to revolutionize the way you perceive and approach inner city coaching? Join us as we pick the brain of the seasoned educator and football/baseball coach, Ron Kretz. Together, we will unravel the challenges coaches face in the inner city, talk about the significance of aligning with student needs, and navigate the rising tide of negative parental behavior.

We don't just stop at the problems; we also discuss solutions. Ron offers his seasoned insights and methods on leading by example, enlightening parents and fans about the essence of good sportsmanship, and mitigating the negative impact of summer and travel ball on state-sanctioned events. He also shares his experience on setting and adhering to standards, the power of communication with parents and players, and the critical role of fundraising for essential facilities and equipment. But the learning doesn't end here! We delve into the nuances of creating an environment conducive for the holistic development of students, helping them shine not just on the field but also in life.

It gets even more interesting as Ron takes us through game-situation drills and the subtle art of motivating athletes. He shares his unique approach to coaching, the importance of controlled scrimmages, and his strategies for inspiring players. Furthermore, he emphasizes the power of body language in communication and how to build meaningful relationships with students. As we wrap up, we touch upon common coaching mistakes, with a special mention of Deion Sanders. Join us as we navigate this fascinating landscape of inner city coaching with Ron Kretz. Don't miss out!

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Master the art of perseverance and discover the incredible stories of athletes who refused to quit in this inspiring episode of the Athlete 1 Podcast. Join our host, Ken Carpenter, as he shares life-changing insights and anecdotes from the world of sports.

From Mike Trout to Michael Jordan, these renowned athletes faced rejections and setbacks but chose to stay committed to their goals. Learn how they turned adversities into stepping stones for success and find motivation to push through challenges in your own life. Whether you're an athlete, coach, or simply in need of a dose of inspiration, this episode is a must-listen as Ken Carpenter brings to light the importance of attitude, effort, and being the best for the team.

Support the show

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Imagine stepping onto the field with Chase Gerbrick, the youngest college baseball coach in the country. This episode of Athlete 1 Podcast gives you that very experience, taking you behind the scenes of college baseball, sharing his journey, the highs and lows, his career-ending injury, and the influential role his family played in shaping him into the successful coach he is today. Chase's insights on the NCAA recruitment process, the importance of physical strength, and his experience at Indiana Wesleyan University will get you hooked.

Is Indiana Wesleyan University your dream field? We dig into why high school baseball players should consider this university as their prospective college. Chase enlightens us on the top-notch coaching tools, state-of-the-art facilities, and the cutting-edge Trackman system the university boasts. We talk about the unique culture of the program and how to find the perfect fit, both academically and spiritually. You're going to want to hear about the qualities of a good infielder - being twitchy, vocal, and passionate.

As we head into the final innings, we cover the absolute essentials of making a solid impression when reaching out to college coaches. Chase talks about his Gerbrick Performance program and the insights it offers to players. Ever wondered what the top three division one college baseball programs are according to Chase? Or his vision for the future? You'll hear all that and more. So put on your cleats, grab your mitt and join us for an exciting conversation with the youngest coach in the country.

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Ever wonder what it takes to transition from a baseball player to high school baseball coach to successful Division 1 college coach? Join us as we unpack the journey with our esteemed guest, Ray Noe, assistant coach and recruiting coordinator at Virginia Military Institute (VMI). Ray shares his fascinating life story, detailing his experiences at VMI, the intensity of Hell Week, and his steady climb up the coaching ranks.

What sets a winning team apart? Ray lets us in on the secret sauce - finding the right players with character and the right mindset, the role of travel organizations, and the value of honest conversations with players. He delves into the balancing act of military, school, and baseball, and how to manage the pressure that comes with each. As a bonus, he spills the beans on his unique plays that gave him an edge on the field.

But it's not all about the game. Ray also shares a crucial aspect often overlooked - the significant role of parents at the college level. He sheds light on how parents and coaches can guide players through failure and the importance of taking time away from the game. He even discusses why multi-sport athletes can stay fresh and productive. And to top it all off, he makes a bold prediction for the World Series. Tune in for an episode packed with insights and strategies from a seasoned college coach.

@CoachRayNoe

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Uncover the extraordinary journey of Brad Kamensk, a formidable force in the world of Major League Baseball, as he shares his incredible experiences from playing for six diverse teams. This episode offers an intimate look at Brad's humble beginnings in Shawnee High School, Lime, Ohio, his triumphant rise to prominence as the fourth pick in the first round of the MLB draft in 1979, to his admirable achievements in the minor leagues. Join us as we unravel the rich tapestry of Brad's life, full of awe-inspiring tales, unforgettable moments, and lessons that transcended beyond the baseball field.

As we take you on a rollercoaster ride through Brad's illustrious career, he reveals some of the most thrilling moments of his journey. Listen to the story behind that phenomenal outfield catch which Joe Carter declared as the greatest he ever saw, and find out what distinguished the Hall of Fame players from the rest. Moreover, Brad offers a unique perspective on coaching, and how allowing players to figure things out for themselves often brings out the best in them.

Furthermore, engage with candid conversations about the competitive yet challenging world of professional baseball careers in winter leagues, and the gritty reality of not matching up to expectations and the uncertain pay security in these leagues. Relish Brad's transition to coaching in the minor leagues, his encounters with the challenging conditions of baseball fields at the inception of his career, and the dedicated efforts of groundskeepers to provide the best playing surface. Brad's gripping anecdotes, thoughtful reflections, and introspective insights make this a must-listen episode for every baseball enthusiast and aspiring athlete. So, don't miss out on this captivating exploration of a baseball legend's journey!

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Ever thought about the transformative power of discipline and dedication in sports? Buckle up for an inspirational journey through the highs and lows of professional baseball with Jason King, former Kansas State Wildcat and fourth round pick of the Detroit Tigers. We delve into Jason's early baseball years, revealing how his innate ability to shine in the weight room and on the field propelled him to all-state player status in Ohio. Hear about the profound influence of Coach Chris Huesman and how a burning desire to compete against the best was instrumental to Jason's success.

We also navigate Jason's path from Ohio to Kansas, diving into his enlightening college recruitment process. You'll learn why he chose to challenge himself, looking past the Ohio State Buckeyes to find the best college program that would help him grow. Jason generously shares nuggets of wisdom for high schoolers contemplating a future in college baseball, offering a contemporary perspective on how the recruitment process has evolved.

Finally, we tackle the arduous transition from college to professional baseball. Jason provides a raw and honest snapshot of the cut-throat competition in the major leagues and gives a glimpse into a typical day in the life of a minor league player in August. The episode concludes with Jason recounting his most unforgettable baseball experiences and the individuals who profoundly impacted his professional baseball journey. So, sit back, relax, and be ready to be inspired by the riveting journey of Jason King.

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Imagine being a bat boy for the Texas Rangers, rubbing shoulders with the giants of the game, and then going on to lead your own high school baseball team to record wins. That's exactly what our guest, Johnny Johnson, the head baseball coach at James Clemens High School in Alabama, did. Johnny takes us through his extraordinary journey, from his days with the Texas Rangers, sharing encounters with legends like Nolan Ryan, Juan Gonzalez, Pudge Rodriguez, and even future President George W. Bush, to his current role molding young athletes.

Now, Johnny isn't just any coach; he's a maverick who believes in playing an aggressive and pressure-filled game, a strategy that saw his 2021 team set a school record for wins and steal their way into the Alabama all-time list. Listen as Johnny shares his philosophy on nurturing instincts in his players, the significance of base running and bunting, and how his unique coaching style has consistently led his team to victory.

But it's not all about wins and records. Johnny also dives into the reality of high school coaching, the challenges posed by the changing landscape of recruiting due to travel ball, and the common pitfalls players and parents fall into during the recruiting process. Hear firsthand the wisdom he's gleaned from his years of coaching, his favorite drill, the Ball Stop Scrimmage, and his insights on the importance of tough love in molding a formidable team. This episode with Johnny Johnson is a grand slam for any baseball enthusiast or aspiring young athlete.

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Picture this: you're offered the role of head coach for a phenomenally successful high school baseball program. Surprised? Humbled? That's exactly how Rick Weaver, the newly-appointed head coach of Defiance High School's baseball team felt when he was handed the reins. Join us as we engage in a heart-to-heart and explore not just his journey to this coveted position, but also his unshakeable commitment to molding his players into exemplary citizens, husbands, and fathers.

As we navigate through the conversation, Rick and I delve into the compelling world of high school sports and its multifaceted impact on youth development. We drop the ball on some essential life skills that sports nurture in young minds – think resilience, teamwork, and the understanding that effort bears fruit. We also tackle the shifting attitudes of athletes and their keen parents, as well as the delicate issue of managing players' expectations in terms of game time. And yes, don't miss our frank discussion on how high school sports experience can give one a competitive advantage in the job market.

Ever wondered what it takes to train 90-mile per hour pitchers? Or what unique strategies keep players motivated day in, day out? That's where Coach Weaver takes us next. He opens up about Defiance High School's innovative training methods and motivational techniques. We also delve into his entrepreneurial journey with Krato Sports, exploring the unique capacities of their bat weights. As we draw to a close, Rick shares his respect for the legendary coaches who preceded him, his aspirations for Defiance High School Baseball, and his gratitude for this opportunity to connect with our Athlete 1 podcast listeners.

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Get ready for an eye-opening discussion with Tim Held, the acclaimed head coach of Cincinnati Moeller High School's 2023 Ohio Division 1 state championship team. You won't want to miss out on the insights and strategies behind this high-performing team's success, and the sheer talent that made up their roster. Prepare to be blown away by the dedication, the rigorous training, and the journey of overcoming challenges that led these young athletes to clinch the championship.

We dive deeper into the intricacies of high school baseball, discussing the tactics that can be game-changers. Timing the runners from the pitcher's leg lift, or the strategic decision-making about when to run based on reading the catcher and pitcher. Here, every strategy matters, and Coach Held talks about the importance of practice, the fierce competition for starting spots, and the world of competitive high school baseball. He also reveals the transformative impact of getting their own turf field in 2008 on the trajectory of their baseball program.

Wrapping up, Coach Held gets personal. He shares insights on his communication with players and parents, his approach to handling exit interviews, and some of his most cherished coaching stories. He also reflects on the family's history of state titles, his long relationship with recently retired head coach of Defiance High School, Tom Held. This episode, filled with wisdom, experience, and practical advice, offers an enriching look into the world of high school baseball. Engage in this exclusive peek behind the scenes of a state championship team's journey.

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

What happens when high school coaches feel unsupported and lose their authority in the athletic community? Tune in to this eye-opening conversation on the Athlete 1 Podcast as we explore the concerning departure of these vital mentors and the importance of support from parents and athletic directors.

As your host, Ken Carpenter, I share my experiences as a veteran high school baseball coach, and together, we'll uncover the invaluable life lessons coaches provide as role models and mentors. Let's learn how we can create a culture of respect and support, ensuring the continued presence of dedicated and passionate coaches in high school sports. Don't miss this crucial discussion on the Athlete 1 Podcast.

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Join us as we journey down memory lane with Phil Callaghan, a Hall of Fame member of the Ohio High School Baseball Coaches Association, celebrating his incredible 29-year coaching career. We explore the challenges of managing talented players and the changes high school baseball has experienced over the years. You'll also hear Phil's advice on making decisions in the best interest of your student-athletes.

Phil shares stories from his time at three different schools - St. Francis Desales, Dublin Scioto, and Olentangy Orange - as well as how he adapted his coaching style to match the varying talent levels. We delve into the influential role Don Thorpe has played in Ohio high school baseball and beyond, and Phil offers invaluable advice to high school players wanting to play college baseball. Discover the impact of effort on an athlete's success and how young athletes can prepare themselves for life after high school.

Rounding out our conversation, we discuss some fascinating baseball topics, including the skill and approach of two legendary pitcher duos - Greg Maddux and Pedro Martinez versus Nolan Ryan and Randy Johnson. Phil reveals his choice for the greatest MLB player of all time and which pitcher and position player he would want in his lineup for a must-win game. Don't miss this captivating episode packed with incredible stories, valuable lessons, and a deep appreciation for the game of baseball.

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Imagine experiencing a gut-wrenching extra innings loss as a high school baseball coach, and then having the courage to reflect on the game without regret. That's exactly what our guest, Olentangy Berlin High School's Head Baseball Coach Mike Weaver, does in this engaging episode. Join us as Mike shares his unique perspective on the sport, the pivotal moments of the recent match against Gehanna Lincoln, and the tough decision to bring in a reliever.

We also dive into the world of high school baseball coaching, where Mike juggles his roles as coach, teacher, and parent in the competitive atmosphere of Southern Delaware County in Ohio. Discover the work being done to ensure the success of high school programs and the importance of mentoring younger coaches in building a strong community.

Lastly, we get a glimpse of Mike's coaching style, his predictions for the central district division one regionals, and his most successful season this year. Taking risks and trusting his instincts have led Mike and his team to great heights. Don't miss out on these valuable insights and experiences from a dedicated high school baseball coach.

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Episode 71

Why do some teams always produce successful teams?  I sat down with 5 great high school baseball coaches from around the country to discuss what it takes to win a state championship in baseball.  Between these coaches, they have won over 3,300 games and over 20 state championships in high school. baseball.

It starts with culture and having athletes.  Pitching, defense and timely hitting.  Trust in your players and focusing on developing a strong bond with your players are critical.  This is why they are ultra successful.

• Todd Fitz-Ferald: Stoneman Douglas HS (FL)
• Butch Chaffin: Cookeville HS (TN)
• John Lowery: Jefferson HS (WV)
• Tom Held: Defiance HS (OH)

• Chris Kaczmar: Walsh Jesuit HS (OH)

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast

• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Episode 70In 27 years as a college baseball head coach, Head Coach Bob Todd (Ohio State University Baseball - Retired) never had a losing season.  He won 40 games eleven times, 50 games twice and is the only 5 time winner of the Big 10 Coach of the Year.

• Missing the dugout
• Keys to consistent success
• Trusting the process
• What he looked for in a recruit
• Motivating and holding players accountable
• 72 players signed MLB contracts
• 19 All-Americans
• All 4 of his children played D1 sports
• The importance of being a good teammate

• One change he would make for college baseball

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast

• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Episode 69

On this episode of the Athlete 1 Podcast 
Head Baseball Coach Delvin Jordan is in his first season coaching coaching 2022 state runner-up Redan HS Raiders (GA).  Despite losing the majority of the starters to graduation, his team is making another run and picking up where they left off.

• Changing the style of play
• Base stealing and small ball
• Road warriors (no home field)
• Spring football vs baseball in Georgia
• Benefits of being a multi-sport athlete
• 2 Way Sports
• The impact a coach has on athletes

• No excuses

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast

• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Episode 68
Ryne Romick (Denison University Baseball Associate Head Coach) was a All-Ohio multi-sport athlete at River High School (OH).   He pitched for the University of Akron Zips and jumped right into coaching after graduation.

Ryne Romick is the pitching coach and he goes into detail the challenges of trying to play college baseball and be successful. 

• Climbing to the top
• Coaching staff cohesion
• Benefits of being from a small town and being a multi-sport athlete
• Wake up call for incoming freshmen
• What coaches look for when recruiting
• D1 or bust
• Strength training - the difference maker

• Work life balance

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast

• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Parents are struggling to find what's best for their son or daughter when it comes to playing youth sports.  Should you specialize or let them play multiple youth sports?  The pressure of what other parents are doing, hoping for an athletic scholarship and the rising costs of playing travel, AAU or club sports. 

Should you specialize or play multiple youth sports?  Today's guest, Andrew Petcash is the host of the Petcash Pod, creator of the Profluence Sports Newsletter and former Boston University basketball player breaks down...

• What it takes to be D1 athlete
• Profluence Sports Newsletter
• Commercialization of youth sports
• Are athletes being left behind because if the rising cost
• What it cost to play
• Are kids specializing too soon
• The Petcash Pod
• Rapid Fire

Profluence Sports by Andrew Petcash

A newsletter breaking down the business of athletes, sports, and NIL.

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Episode 66

Marjorie Stoneman Douglas High School (FL) Head Baseball Coach Todd Fitz - Gerald takes you behind the scenes and shares what it takes to win multiple state and national championships.

The SD Eagles go into the 2023 season as defending national champions with 13 players that are college bound.

This interview was conducted on the 5 year anniversary of the Parkland, Florida mass shooting at Marjorie Stoneman Douglas High School. Coach Fitz-Gerald breaks down his keys to consistently producing nationally ranked teams. He shares what he learned from the mass shooting and how we can put our difference aside to be a better society.

• "I am the coach that I am because of the players that have played for me"
• Steps taken to change the team culture
• The ways he handles having your sons play for you
• Building a bond with your players
• When talented players lack work ethic
• How you get returning players to stay hungry
• The shock that comes with a mass shooting a week before the season and how he handled it
• The changes he has made since the mass shooting
• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Episode 65

Adam Moseley - Hoover (AL) Buccaneer HS Head Baseball Coach / 2X Baseball Team USA World Champion 

The highly successful Adam Moseley joins the Athlete 1 Podcast.  In this episode, we find out why positive leadership matters for today's athlete.

• Coaching expectations at powerhouse Hoover High School
• His approach to pitching
• Unique process that incoming freshmen go through when they make the team
• Why visiting other programs is important
• What practice looks like
• Explanation of why Alabama High School Athletic Association suspended him for coaching Team USA
• How you handle adversity
• The response by coaches around the country who had his back
• Having great assistant coaches
• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

**Episode 64

Bill and Frank Gamble -** Massillon Jackson HS Baseball (OH) are a winning coaching combination on the baseball field.  This father-son combination teach and coach the game the right way. 

Their roles have reversed.  Bill, the son of HOF baseball coach Frank was a long time assistant for his dad.  Now Frank returns to be an assistant Bill for one of the top teams year in and year out in the state of Ohio.  Frank is in the Ohio High School Baseball Coaches Hall of Fame and Bill has two state titles. 

In this episode...

• Battling the elements in northeast Ohio
• The benefits of having a HOF coach as an assistant
• Putting pressure on the opponents
• Handling conversations with players who are struggling
• Communication within the coach - player - parent triangle
• Administration having your back

• What parents don't know about the coach

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast

• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Episode 63

After 22 years, Chris Fugitt - Hilliard Darby HS (OH) Head Baseball Coach stepped away from coaching to enjoy watching his son play D1 baseball for Purdue and Bowling Green University.  Four years later he returns to the dugout.

In this episode...

• Getting to be a dad and enjoy watching your son play
• Advice if you're coaching your son
• What parents should know
• Being consistent with your philosophy
• What middle school players lack when they move up to the HS level
• Ways to make travel ball better for the players
• Great stories from coaching against a friend
• Rapid Fire

Follow :  Chris Fugitt - @coachfug_28

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

An amazing 61 episodes in two years and this one is the most listened to. Jeff Letourneau shares his extraordinary path to the NY Yankees organization.  Here's why it's the most listened to episode.

• Going from a 5'5" high school infielder to the US Army
• Florida St University: Trying Out..Making it...and they never heard of you
• Do you realize you're throwing 90 MPH
• Unlikely path to All-American Pitcher
• Changing your age to get a professional opportunity
• Pitching in Yankee stadium
• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

In this episode...

Patrick Jones (Host of the Patrick Jones Baseball Podcast)
Patrick shares secrets to improving your chances of playing college baseball.  

• Working with players in the winter
• Differences between HS, college and professional hitters
• Non-negotiables for hitting success
• Increasing your chances to play at the next level
• Mistakes HS players make in the recruiting process
• Hosting a baseball podcast and interviews with the best coaches in the country - free masterclass to every aspect of the game of baseball

@pjonesbaseball - Twitter

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Kurt Hines - Coronado High School (CA) Head Football Coach
Episode 60 - Relationship Building

• Keys to building strong relationships with your players
• Not sacrificing a wedding ring for a championship ring
• Want to be respected - not feared
• Getting parents to buy in
• Going Viral
• Turning a coaching mistake into a teachable moment
• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Consistently successful teams have one thing that separates them from average teams.  A winning culture and the head coach is responsible for setting the tone. 

Greg Berge is the Head Basketball Coach and Principal at Lincoln High School in Lake City, Minnesota.  He is a Sports Leadership Facilitator and author of "Culture WINS".
Coach Berge puts out a weekly newsletter: Great Teams - Better Leaders - 123

In this episode:

• 4 steps to building a winning program
• Getting the right players on the bus
• Developing the edge - 2017 team
• 5 types of leaders needed for a winning team
• Administrators need to have the coaches back
• Solutions to the officiating crisis

Follow Greg Berge on Twitter - @gb1121

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Episode 58

Walter Beede knows what it takes to get youth baseball players prepared to play high school and college baseball.

Coach Beede is known as "The Youth Baseball Guy" received a scholarship from Arizona State University and was selected in the 13th round draft pick in 1981 by the Chicago Cubs, His Coaching background is lengthy and extensive. He has been a head coach at the High School, American Legion, National Travel baseball and NCAA-College level, He has also worked as a Task force member for the prestigious Team USA program in Cary NC. The parent of two sons that competed and graduated at the college level, Walter has been through the recruiting process with both of his sons Kyle and Tyler. Kyle played for LSU Eunice and Alexandria, and Tyler played for The National Champion Vanderbilt Commodores. Tyler also holds the distinction of being the only New England player in the 53-year history of the MLB Draft to be a TWO TIME FIRST ROUND DRAFT Selection.

Walter Beede explains:

• how travel baseball is a multi-million dollar business
• why recruits should attend college camps
• the importance of high school coaches
• how to be a college ready recruit
• what Tim Corbin (Vanderbilt) told him about high school players

You can follow Walter Beede on all social media outlets and You Tube - @baseballlifer11

• Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Episode 57 features former Mercer University baseball pitcher Conrad Cornell who came up with an idea that every player, high school/college coach and parent can use in a variety of ways. That idea is the sports social media app Press Sports.

What is the Press Sports App and how can it help you?

Showcase your talent on Press Sports, the #1 sports social media app. Download the app, create your profile and share your sports highlights!

The Press Sports believes every athlete has a story worth sharing. Join over 250,000 athletes and coaches using our platform to connect with each other and share highlights across all levels and sports.

Think TikTok for Sports, with the purpose of LinkedIn for athletes and coaches. We provide a platform where users can have agency over telling their individual sports journeys. Athletes share their footage for the Press Sports Community to engage and connect with. The purpose for many is to seek out recruitment from other teams and colleges while also having the ability to share and engage with other sports-related content within a personalized sports community!

The Press Sports Community consists of: MS/HS/College Athletes and Coaches as well as Parents, Trainers, Fans and Organizations!

Athletes benefit from:
-College Recruitment
-Building a personal brand
-Connecting and engaging with other athletes in a Positive Environment
-Possessing a personal sports profile
-Gaining support from the community

Coaches benefit from:
-Discovering talent
-Connecting with athletes
-Promoting their programs
-Building a personal brand

Parents benefit from:
-Documenting your child’s athletic career from a young age
-Gaining support for your child from other parents, friends and fans in the community
-A Positive/Safe Platform, different from other toxic Social Medias
-Free exposure to colleges for your child (MS/HS)

Trainers benefit from:
-Building your personal training brand to the 300+ users on our platform
-Connecting with athletes, coaches and other trainers
-Discovering new techniques/training drills
-Giving tips to current athletes to boost your presence

Teams/Organizations benefit from:
-Having all your players’ highlights located on one Team/Organization Page
-Getting your players exposure to College Coaches
-Promoting your program to the Press Sports Community
-Updating your fans on News/Updates

• Follow: Athlete 1 Podcast on Twitter, Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
• https://www.athlete1.net
• Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
• https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Joe Carbone - Ohio University Baseball

Legenday ABCA Hall of Fame retired head baseball coach Joe Carbone opens up about his sensational career. 

• as a player at Ohio University
• 16 years as an assistant coach (Marshall, Toledo & Ohio State)
• 24 years as head coach (Ohio University)
• Miami Marlins scout
• USA Baseball

Also:

• Running tournaments after retirement
• Incredible story ...playing for Ohio University and making it to the College World Series
• Recruiting stories ...finding a player who he never heard of and he gets drafted
• Explaining by position...what it takes to be drafted
• Challenges for high school head coaches

***Follow on social media:  @Athlete1Podcast - Twitter/Instagram

Sponsored by: The Netting Professionals  844-620-2707***Netting Professionals – Netting Pros – Improving Programs ...
https://nettingpros.com

View Details

Jefferson HS (WV) Head Baseball Coach John Lowery is among the winningest coaches ever,  and and even has the coach of the year award named for him.   MaxPreps.com selected Coach Lowery as the Greatest High School Coach in West Virginia history as part of naming one coach, regardless of sports, from all 50 states.

Learn the secrets to his highly successful 52 year powerhouse baseball program. 

• Recently selected to the ABCA Hall of Fame
• 12 - State Championships
• 45 - Consecutive 20 win seasons
• Overall Record 1,392 - 361 - 2
• 52 Years at Jefferson HS and still going strong

***Sponsored by: The Netting Professionals

Twitter/Instagram/Facebook - @athlete1podcast***https://www.athlete1.net

View Details

I break down the careers of two hall of fame baseball coaches and and how their storied careers come to an end.  Chris Huesman (Dublin Jerome High School ) and Chris Kaczmar (Walsh Jesuit High School) were guests on episodes 1 and 4.  Great coaches and even better people. 

*One went out his way and the other was told his services were no longer needed.

Both combined for 

• Nearly 1,000 wins
• 100+ college players
• Numerous MLB draft picks
• Multiple state championships

Sponsored by: The Netting Professionals

View Details

A coach can make a huge impact on his or her team.  Think back to when you were part of a team.  How did your coach make you feel?    Lewis Caralla is the Head Strength and Conditioning Football Coach at Georgia Tech University.  His strength program is the glue to the GT football program.

In this episode, Coach Caralla shares what it takes to be a  positive influence in the weight room, on the field and in life after the game.  

• Doing the little things will lead to success
• Being the best player for your team
• The importance of building life long relationships
• The "Hunger Board" explained
• Building respect and trust
• Using social media to benefit the team

Powered By:  The Netting Professionals
Improving programs one facility at a time

View Details

What would high school sports be like without officials?  As strange as that sounds, it's already happening.  More and more sports officials are retiring or walking away from officiating.  Why?  Inadequate pay, average age of officials is much higher than you think and physical/verbal abuse from fans and coaches are just a few of the reasons.

In this episode, I discuss the umpire shortage with Dan McGinnis (Ohio High School. Athletic Association Director of Officiating Development for Baseball).

• Sports officials shortage
• Why are officials quitting at an alarming rate
• Examples of how umpires are treated by fans
• School districts are allowing guns on school property
• Potential solutions

Sponsored by: The Netting Professionals

View Details

Being a part of a team can be one of the most valuable lessons you can learn as a high or college student/athlete.   Stephen Mackey breaks down his program that teaches how to develop character for life beyond the game.

After a conversation with a friend, Mackey decided to quit his job and pursue a career that has lead him to develop a curriculum on character development for over 600,000 student/athletes and coaches around the country.  

• Connecting the dots between sports and life
• Having an intentional game plan for character development
• Differences between failure and winning
• WSJ Best Selling book: The Locker Room
• 2 Words - Curriculum for athletes and coaches

Athlete 1 Podcast is  powered by: The Netting Professionals

2 Words:  Mission
We’re on a mission to impact one million coaches and athletes with the 2Words Character Development Curriculum every week. We began this March to a Million because we believe that having big goals and big dreams is essential to finding success in sports and in life. This is a big goal, but with the help of coaches like you, we will achieve our dream of making a positive impact on the lives of one million coaches and athletes through the 2Words Character Development Curriculum.  Sign up today!

View Details

The Process Of Committing To Play D1 Baseball takes you behind the scenes of three elite high school baseball players.  It takes hard work and talent to get on the radar of major college baseball programs. 

Episode 50 takes you through the experiences of:
Henry Kaczmar - Infielder - Wash Jesuit (OH) High School
Brayden Krenzel - Pitcher - Dublin Jerome (OH) High School 
Keegan Holmstrom - Pitcher/1B - Grove City (OH) High School

• The importance of relationship building between player and college coach
• One coach takes a job at another school
• One coach gets fired
• One coach is the hottest name in college baseball
• Why high school coaches matter
• Parents role in player success
• Elite player mentality
• Advice to younger players who want to play at the next level

***Sponsored by: The Netting Professionals

Follow : @athlete1podcast - Twitter & Instagram***

View Details

One of the most important statistics in baseball is runs scored.  Every coach has a style of play suited for their team.  Players, coaches and fans love home runs and extra base hits, but being fundamentally sound in what is referred to as "small ball" can win you a lot of baseball games.

In this episode, I sit down with Matt Pagni to discuss what he likes to call controlled chaos on the base paths and why it's essential to winning baseball games.

• College World Series  and the Tennessee Volunteers style of play
• Putting an emphasis on bunting in practice
• Looking at small ball a different way
• Playing the game with respect/Palms Up
• "Small Ball" or Controlled Chaos... essentially baseball
• Why you need vocal players on defense

Powered by: The Netting Professionals - Improving Programs One Facility At A Time 
Check out previous episodes athttps://www.athlete1.net 

View Details

Joining Me today on the Athlete 1 Podcast is Corey Conn (Head Baseball Coach at Lancaster (OH) High School).  The  past 10 years he has instilled a belief system that has completely changed the expectations for his team and the community.  

After 3 district titles, Lancaster is ready to take the next step toward a state championship.  It all starts with "Be Where Your Feet Are".

• What it takes to win in the state tournament
• Building Culture
• Making adjustments to your standards
• Building a champion or staying on top - which is harder?
• Surviving and overcoming  the Bluffton University Baseball bus crash
• Having high expectations

***Follow the Athlete 1Podcast:  @athlete1podcast

Proudly sponsored by: The Netting Professionals***

View Details

What separates the successful athlete from the average athlete?  Joining me today on the Athlete 1 Podcast is Charles Schultz who is the author of the book Be Great - Lessons Learned From A Life In The Dirt.  
The former D1 (Youngstown St University Baseball) freshmen All-American shares how his life changed by his high school baseball coach Stephen Gussler and how it lead to his success on the field and his professional career as a coach, author and host of the Edge of Greatness Podcast.

• Coach Gussler's Impact
• Why being an arrogant athlete isn't bad
• What separates great athletes from average athletes
• Handling adversity
• Hosting the Edge of Greatness Podcast
• Be Great - Lessons Learned From A Life In The Dirt
• Edge of Greatness Summit

Proudly Sponsored By: The Netting Professionals
Follow us:  @athlete1podcast on all social media

View Details

In this episode, I get a behind the scenes look at softball social media influencer Megan Rembielak and her extremely popular MegRem Softball instruction success .  Megan is a former D1 softball player for Appalachian State University and current softball instructor based in Jupiter, FL. Her passion and love for the game has drawn her to stay involved past her All-Southern Conference playing days.  Her YouTube channel and website is Meg Rem Softball.

• Growing up around the game and having a dad who was a D1 College Baseball coach
• What it takes to play at the D1 level
• Why playing multiple sports is valuable
• MegRem Softball and social media takes off
• Simple Message to those who attends her MegRem clinics
• Follow Megan Rembielak on all social platforms @MegRemSoftball

*Proudly Sponsored by:  The Netting Professionals
Follow the show:  @Athlete1Podcast***

View Details

What makes a good communicator?  You must be skilled at conveying or exchange information, news or ideas.  Episode 45 guest, Joe Ferraro is one of the best.  He's a 20 year veteran high school/college baseball head coach, teacher and host of the extremely popular 1% Better Podcast.

We dissect communication with today's athlete, their parents and assistant coaches.  Joe Ferraro explains your message must be clear and and impossible to be misunderstood.

• Pillars of a good communicator
• Be open to change in your coaching style
• Why team captains struggle with messaging
• Listening to your assistants  when their opinion is opposite of yours
• The Player-Parent-Coaches Triangle
• First impressions and body language
• Damngoodconversations.com

Powered by: The Netting Professionals
Follow  - @athlete1podcast

View Details

Everybody has an opinion on MLB players who used performance enhancing drugs during the steroid era.  Imagine playing in AAA and your manager looks at you and says if you  would start taking steroids, you would be in the major leagues.   

That is what Mike Lockwood faced battling his way through the minor leagues playing in the Oakland A's and Boston Red Sox organizations.  Baseball came naturally to the former Ohio State standout outfielder.  Mike took advice from his dad and chose not to do what a lot of players were doing.  Taking steroids to improve their chances of making or staying on an MLB roster.

In this episode, Mike Lockwood discusses how the game of baseball gave him an opportunity to get a college degree and play 10 seasons of professional baseball.

• From high school standout to setting records for the Ohio State Buckeyes
• Being drafted by the Oakland A's
• Playing injured for Red Sox manager Terry Francona
• AAA manager telling him steroids would get him in the show
• Unbelievable story while playing professionally n Taiwan
• Coaching his sons, strong morals and working hard
• What it takes to make it at the next level

Powered By:  The Netting Professionals

View Details

In this episode, I sit down with Butch Chaffin who is the Cookeville (TN) High School Head Baseball Coach.   We go inside a highly successful program lead by a coach who believes culture is everything.

Coach Chaffin has spent more than 36 years in the game, with prior stints as an assistant coach at Tennessee Tech, a Special Assignment Scout for the Kansas City Royals, and an assistant with USA Baseball. Coach Chaffin has led the Cookeville Cavaliers to 13 District titles, six Region titles and a State Championship appearance. He has coached 19 All-State players, five High School All-Americans and 126 players who went on to play college baseball.

Sponsored by: The Netting Professionals

View Details

In this episode - Casey Dill who is currently the Manager of the Palm Springs Power and Director of Baseball Operations for the Palm Springs Collegiate League. He has worked as a Field Manager in professional and summer collegiate baseball for 12 years, earning an overall record of 509-241 and six championships.

He is an Associate Scout with the Atlanta Braves and Scouting Supervisor for the Southern Illinois Miners of the independent professional Frontier League. He is a graduate of Major League Baseball Scout School and is MLB Scouting Bureau certified.

He has coached at the collegiately at California State University Chico (NCAA D2), New Mexico Highlands University (NCAA D2) and Harris-Stowe State University (NAIA). Casey has a n Associates Degree in Business Management from Butte Community College and a Bachelor's Degree in Business Management from Columbia College.

Casey shares his thoughts on...

• MLB Strike
• Recruiting Process
• Leading With Positivity
• What an MLB scout looks for in players
• Why baseball technology is here to stay
• Moving an entire summer college league to another state during the height of the pandemic
• Coaching and player procurement for the Lake Erie Crushers

Powered by: The Netting Professionals - Improving Programs One Facility At A Time

View Details

In this episode, Matt Scarfo (Endurance Athlete, Ultra-Runner, Optimist, Potentialist and Infinite Thinker) breaks down the keys to optimal performance.

• Focus on the present
• Don't be afraid to set the bar high
• Breathing techniques
• Overcoming setbacks
• Why we lose sight of what we're capable of doing
• 9 marathons in 9 days
• It's not what we do, It's how we do what we do that leads to peak performance

ATHLETE 1 PODCAST:  POWERED BY THE NETTING PROFESSIONALS

View Details

Aaron Conrad - Creator & Founder of My Unscripted Media / Host of The Unscripted Podcast, 270 Unscripted and Corner Three Podcast joins the Athlete 1 Podcast to discuss a parents perspective on sports.  

Aaron has raised three student athletes (1 college baseball player/1 college track athlete/1 high school swimmer) and he shares his experiences as a parent with youth, high school and college athletics.

• Glaring issues with parent expectations
• Enjoy watching them be part of a team
• How sports prepares you for the real world
• Being supportive and realistic when your child isn't a starter
• Treatment of officials

Sponsored By: The Netting Professionals

View Details

Why is playing baseball with intensity and passion so important?  Bloom Carroll High School (OH) Head Baseball Coach Jason Vest breaks down why his teams are consistently successful at a game that is filled with failure.

This episode with Coach Vest takes you behind the scenes of his unique approach to teaching life lessons and playing small ball, focusing on team culture and playing winning baseball.

• How the Air Force influenced his coaching style
• Playing small ball successfully
• Team culture can be the difference between a good season and a great season
• Openly discussing failure and stress of baseball
• Having a wife that understands the game

Sponsored by:  THE NETTING PROFESSIONALS

View Details

Centennial High School (TX) Head baseball Coach Art Senato is known for turning programs around.  He shares secrets to his success in the baseball crazy state of Texas.

• How being injured lead to a 26 year coaching career
• Why high school baseball isn't travel baseball
• Kyle Crick Story
• Practicing at game speed
• Three areas to focus on when taking over a new program
• Umpire shortage

Powered by:  The Netting Professionals

View Details

Grace Dafoe of the Canadian National Skeleton team spent 15 years as a figure skater before making the move to skeleton racing.  In just three short years, Grace won her first race on her home track (North America's Cup).  In this episode, Grace Dafoe takes you behind the scenes and discusses her path to being on the Canadian National Skeleton team.

• From figure skater to skeleton racing
• Winning the North America's Cup
• Mental preparation
• Learning to be a sprinter
• Strength training
• The need for competition
• Never giving up on a dream

Athlete 1 Podcast Sponsor:  The Netting Professionals

View Details

In this episode, I take a look back at the past 35 shows of season 1.  The guests that were interviewed share great stories, provided valuable insight on what made them successful or how they handled failure and the lessons learned through playing and coaching sports.  These great guests made a huge impact on me as the host and will do the same for you.

Interviews with...

• High school baseball and football coaches
• College baseball coaches
• Professional athletes
• College athletes
• Hall of Famers
• Authors

View Details

The University of Cincinnati football team has nothing to lose going into the College Football Playoffs.  They will the first non Power 5 school to participate in the playoffs.  Cayson Pfeiffer is the starting long snapper for the Bearcats and he takes you inside the preparation for their upcoming semi-final game with the top seeded Alabama Crimson Tide.

• The decision to become a long snapper
• Playing for the most sought after college football coach Luke Fickell
• Preparing for Alabama
• Blocking out the noise
• Everything is earned
• Having great teammates

* Athlete 1 Podcast is sponsored by: The Netting Professionals

View Details

During the winter month's, baseball players migrate to indoor athletic facilities to find ways to improve as a baseball player.  Pitchers are in search of ways to throw harder, develop a better off-speed pitch and improve their chances of playing at the collegiate level.  

I sit down with former college pitchers, Mitchell Bault and Conor Crotty their path to being to collegiate baseball players and how they teach younger athletes the art of pitching.

• What it takes to separate yourself from the pack
• Mental health
• Structure and Self Awareness
• Advocating for yourself and taking care of your arm

The Athlete 1 Podcast is sponsored by:   https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

The Game - two words that, to most, are just words.  To mean everything to two of the most loyal football fan bases in America.  Those two fan bases are The Ohio State University and the University of Michigan. 

Former Ohio State Buckeye football player, Tyvis Powell, takes you inside the best rivalry in sports.

• How the coaches prepare Buckeyes for the best rivalry in sports
• The skirmish in the tunnel before the game
• The story behind why Michigan went for two with the game on the line and how Ohio State knew what play they were running
• Playing with a team full of future NFL players
• How to respond to adversity

The Athlete 1 Podcast is powered by: https://www.nettingpros.com

View Details

Paul Mainieri was born to be a college baseball coach.  He grew up in the dugout watching his dad (Demie) and his hall of fame career at Miami Dade Jr College.  They are the only father- son combo in the American Baseball Coaches Association Coaches Hall of Fame.

Coach Paul Mainieri's 39 year hall of fame career ended at powerhouse LSU and included stops at St Thomas University, The Air Force Academy and the University of Notre Dame. 

Coach Mainieri joins the Athlete 1 Podcast to discuss a variety of topics including:

• Being one of five college baseball coaches with 1,500 career wins
• Recruiting and assistant coaches
• Coaching in the north and the south
• Winning the College World Series in Omaha
• His viral moment with relief pitcher Todd Peterson
• The importance of relationships

* The Athlete 1 Podcast is powered by:  The Netting Professionals

View Details

Jerry Snodgrass has been a servant leader his whole career.  It started as an athlete and throughout his extraordinary professional career as a teacher, coach, athletic director and as the Executive Director of the Ohio High School Athletic Association.

Jerry Snodgrass takes you behind the scenes and discusses

• The conversation with Ohio Governor Mike DeWine about stopping sports during the COVID-19 pandemic
• The effects of AAU, club and travel sports on high school athletics
• Mental health in high school sports
• Why high school athletics have a  shortage of sports officials
• Learning to be part of a team

Netting Professionals - Athlete 1 Podcast Sponsor

View Details

Ohio Hall of Fame Head Baseball Coach Tom Held joins the Athlete 1 Podcast and shares his approach to success.  He believes every high school in the country has a player that can throw 90 mph.  Defiance, Ohio is a small town in northwest Ohio that has produced 20 players in the last 20 years that eclipsed the 90 mph barrier.  

Coach Tom Held has over 700 wins, 3 state championships and 9 of his players who were drafted by the MLB.  We discuss the secret to his incredible run taking place at Defiance High School.

• Being drafted by the Detroit Tigers despite being a basketball player
• Throwing program using a softball, tennis balls and baseballs
• Produce 62 college players and 9 MLB draft picks
• John Niese (NY Mets) and Chad Billingsley (LA Dodgers)
• 3 State Championships
• Not being afraid to reevaluate your program

nwgejnbHPiYVyEadb9t6

POWERD BY: THE NETTING PROFESSIONALS

View Details

Despite being a gifted athlete, Drew Dosch understood the decisions he would make throughout his baseball career would be crucial to to his success.  Those decisions lead to  all-state awards, D1 scholarship, being drafted in the 7th round, and returning home to be the coach at his alma mater.

• An unbreakable Father-Son bond
• Being a great teammate
• Relationships and relying on the guy next to you
• A devastating injury 2 weeks before the MLB draft
• Playing in front of your hometown fans in the AAA All-Star Game
• Fulfilling the dream of becoming a head coach and having your dad as your assistant

View Details

The senior writer at Sports Illustrated Chris Ballard shares the incredible true David and Goliath story about the small town of Macon, Illinois in 1971, a hippie high school baseball coach, hometown heroes and an inspirational season that may never happen again.

If you liked the classic basketball movie Hoosiers, you will want to hear this podcast.  One of America's top sports writers, Chris Ballard joins the Athlete 1 Podcast host Ken Carpenter and discusses his book - One Shot At Forever. A testament to the power of high school sports!

In this episode...

• The positive impact from empowering the players (Coach Lynn Sweet)
• The bond between coaches, players and the community
• How one game can impact a player for life (Steve Shartzer)
• What Atlanta Braves Manager - Brian Snitker learned from Coach Sweet
• When your small school (250 students) is matched against a big school with 5,200 students

Bonus

• Additional stories from Chris Ballard books and Sports Illustrated articles

Books Written by Chris Ballard

• One Shot At Forever
• The Art of A Beautiful Game
• Hoops Nation - A Guide To America's Best Pick-Up Basketball
• The Butterfly Hunter  Adventures OF People Who Found Their True Calling Way Off The Beaten Path

Athlete 1 Podcast  Sponsor - The Netting Professionals

View Details

The Korean War and arm trouble ended Lou Brunswick's dream of playing baseball.  He turned to coaching baseball.  His story of a 35 year hall of fame coaching career, state championships and sons who followed in his footsteps as players and coaches.  That's only half of the story.

• Experiencing racism in the south while playing in the Chicago Cubs organization
• State Championships with your sons on the team
• Sons (Tom, Mark and Jeff) - Playing for dad and the impact they make
• Everyone Counts - Faith, Family and My Life In Baseball

**Don't forget to follow us on Twitter and Instagram - @athlete1podcast

View Details

After growing up on a farm in central Ohio, Tim Saunders decided to do the opposite of what his friends did after high school.  Most chose good paying jobs, while he went to college in pursuit of his dream.  

Forty years later, Tim Saunders retires with a resume that most baseball coaches dream about.  A hall of fame high school baseball coach at the state and national level, 17 years coaching for USA Baseball, a state championship and life lessons learned as a baseball coach.

• Making $11,000 a year
• Building a program and a state of the art field
• Beating Cuba as a coach for USA Baseball
• State championship

*Follow the show on Twitter and Instagram - @Athlete1Podcat

View Details

After playing and coaching at D3 baseball powerhouse Marietta College, Mike Deegan was named the head coach at Denison University.  Coach Deegan takes you inside the lessons he learned through playing sports.  

His people first approach has turned Denison University into one of the premier programs in the Midwest.

• Winning national championships
• It's not about X's and O's or strategy - It's people
• Having goals and reflection
• Lessons learned playing pick-up basketball
• Author of the book - Let It Rip

* Follow on Twitter and Instagram - @athlete1podcast

View Details

As a 3 sport standout at Lima Shawnee High School (OH), Brad Komminsk was a D1 recruit in football and baseball.  He turned down U of Michigan football and signed as the 4th overall pick in the 1979 Major League Baseball Draft with the Atlanta Braves.

We go behind the scenes and discuss his time as a MLB player and minor league manager.  If you love great stories about Hall of Famers like Bob Gibson, Cal Ripken and many more.  This is the podcast for you.

• Being the 4th overall pick in the MLB draft
• Facing Fernando Valenzuela
• Going over the wall in centerfield
• Not digging in on Bob Gibson during batting practice
• Great stories managing in the minor leagues

View Details

Two lifelong friends (Mike Yinger - Buckeye Valley High School Athletic Director/CDBCA Hall of Fame Baseball Coach and Brad Schneider - HR Consultant, Business Coach and School Board Member at Big Walnut High School) join the Athlete 1 Podcast to discuss a unique way to help student/athletes and coaches when it comes to difficult conversations.

• THE DISCUSSION ZONE
• Empowering the student/athlete
• Getting everyone on the same page

*Check us out on Twitter and Instagram @athlete1podcast

View Details

Today, I sit down with two Ohio high school head coaches Chris Huesman and Don Schone.  Combined, they have over 50 years in the dugout.  We discuss the first full season after COVID-19, the state of travel baseball and what makes America's game so much fun to coach.

• 1st season after a pandemic
• State of summer travel baseball from a high school coaches perspective

• Why playing a tough schedule and good coaches are important

• Follow us @Athlete1Podcast on all social media platforms

View Details

Bluffton University Head Baseball Coach James Grandey has experienced the highs and lows of college athletics as a player and a coach.  Check out how he continues to build the Beaver baseball program after dealing with a tragic bus accident that took the lives of 5 of his players in just his 4th season at the helm.

• All Ohio Athletic Conference in football and baseball
• Tragic bus accident that took the lives of 5 of his players
• Playing to honor the players who lost their life
• Building the program and 20 win seasons
• Making the deepest run in the HCAC tourney in his 18th season

*Follow the show @Athlete1Podcast on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook

View Details

Chris Jones grew up in a small town of Moundsville, West Virginia.  It runs along the Ohio River.  The Ohio Valley is a hotbed for producing professional athletes.  

At John Marshall High School, Chris was one of the top pitchers in the area.  Then Ohio State baseball assistant, Joe Carbone stopped by to see him pitch 3 innings before heading to see his intended recruiting target.

When Coach Carbone returned to campus, he let Head Coach Dick Finn know he found his pitcher.  It wasn't the lefty who he was sent to scout.  It was Chris Jones!  A scholarship was offered and a few years later Chris was drafted in the 4th round by the Toronto Blue Jays.  You never know who's watching you play for the first time.  

• 171 Strikeouts in one season
• Going from a thrower to a pitcher at The Ohio State University
• Being drafted by the Toronto Blue Jays
• The long road of professional baseball and some great stories

View Details

Living without regrets.  Pete Shier was drafted out of Hilliard Davidson High School by the Baltimore Orioles.  He looks back on career and what it took to overcome a devastating injury just 9 games into his first season.

• Ohio State scholarship or signing with the Baltimore Orioles
• Dealing with a major injury
• Meeting Cal Ripken Jr. in the hospital
• Trying to work your way up through the minor leagues

*Follow the show @Athlete1Podcast on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook

View Details

As an undersized high school baseball player who didn't pitch, Jeff Letourneau joined the U.S. Army and two years later decides to try-out for division 1 powerhouse Florida State University.   After a bullpen session and hitting 90mph on the radar gun his dream of pitching at the professional level takes off.  Jeff shares his unlikely rollercoaster path to playing professional baseball.  

• You can't be afraid to dream.
• From the Army to try-out with Florida State
• Going from D1 - JUCO - D2 All-American
• What it took to sign a professional contract
• Pitching against World Series champions New York Yankees

***Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review.

Follow the show on Twitter and Instagram: @Athlete1Podcast***

View Details

From Cincinnati to Columbus and back to Cincinnati!  Ohio State punter Drue Chrisman signs with his hometown Cincinnati Bengals.  After a stellar career for the Buckeyes, Drue sits down with the Athlete 1 Podcast to discuss his path to the National Football League.

• Being the #1 punting prospect in the nation (Cincinnati La Salle High School)
• Meeting the high expectations of Urban Meyer and Ryan Day
• Beating Michigan and Clemson
• Getting the call from the Cincinnati Bengals

View Details

Utica High School Head Baseball Coach Michael Sandman on the field as a player and coach has been successful.  Now he has set his sights on his battling and defeating a lung cancer diagnosis.  His response to the devastating news is inspiring.  Coach Sandman shares his story and how his family, players, coaches and community rally around him.  His positive approach is why he is returning to the dugout much sooner than expected.

• All-Ohio Pitcher
• From Utica High School to Ball State University
• Taking over at his alma mater
• Getting devastating news
• Winning the battle
• Returning for senior night

View Details

Coach  JJ Stoner went from playing D1 baseball straight into the coaching ranks.  His experiences from D1, NAIA, summer college and high school has helped him become a valued leader in the dugout.  

• The role of a captain
• NAIA college world series
• Lifetime memories on an Indian reservation
• LSU fans cheering for a player from the opposing team

View Details

Matt Lattig was a very successful high school baseball head coach who chose to step down.  He came back to the game as an assistant and makes a huge impact on players, the program and community.

• From college pitcher to assistant coach
• Stepping down as a head coach of a successful program
• Returning as an assistant
• Check your ego at the door
• Being a sounding board for players

View Details

Jeremy Sheetinger (Head Baseball Coach at Georgia Gwinett College) joins host Ken Carpenter on the Athlete 1 Podcast!  Coach Sheets holds nothing back when discussing his passion for the game of baseball.  

• Why Georgia Gwinett College
• How a little league coach and baseball impacted his life
• Challenging Yourself
• Handling adversity
• How Bout That Ride In

• DugoutChatter Podcast

@Athlete1Podcast = Instagram/Twitter/Facebook

View Details

Don Schone breaks down how he's adapted his style over the years as the Head Baseball Coach at Watkins Memorial High School (OH).  He shares his thoughts about his time in the world of high school baseball.

• Showing improvement
• Getting involved in the state coaches association
• Coaching a 1st round MLB draft pick
• Mental toughness
• Preparing players for life after baseball

View Details

On this episode, I sit down with Ohio Wesleyan Head Baseball Coach Tyler Mott to discuss what it takes to be successful.  Coach Mott shares his thoughts on a variety of topics.  

• Branch Rickey and Jackie Robinson
• Being a D3 All-American player
• Becoming the head coach at your alma mater
• Importance of high school coaches
• What it takes to be a starter

Back Pain Relief Today
Is you back sore? Would you like to find relief today? Just click the link for a simple solution

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

View Details

Olentangy Orange Head Baseball Coach Tom Marker is a student of the game.  Always learning lessons and not afraid to lean on his assistant coaches and players.  Get out your notebook.

• Steubenville, Ohio influence
• Leaning on assistant coaches
• Tough conversations with players
• HC Tim Corbin and the Vandy camps
• Body language
• Great stories

View Details

Scott Manahan  (President - National High School Baseball Coaches Association)
Joins the Athlete 1 Podcast for an in depth discussion about his 33 years as high school baseball coach.

• How he became a high school baseball coach
• Travel Baseball
• Parents
• Funny stories about coaches and umpires
• Never having a losing season
• What it took to win a state championship

Experiencing Back Pain?  Click the link below!
http://carp9.listenbody.hop.clickbank.net/?tid=

Back Pain Relief Today
Is you back sore? Would you like to find relief today? Just click the link for a simple solution

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

View Details

After a stellar baseball career at the University of Dayton,  Aaron Huesman made the decision to step away from corporate America and join the elite U.S. Army Rangers!  

Want To Work From Home
ENTRE Nation is the premiere online community of entrepreneurs.

Back Pain Relief Today
Is you back sore? Would you like to find relief today? Just click the link for a simple solution

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

View Details

Follow on Instagram:  athlete1podcast
Follow on Twitter: @athlete1podcast
Athlete 1 Podcast Shop - https://linktr.ee/Carp9

Every kid has a dream of playing Major League Baseball and Tim Dillard was no different. He takes us on a journey from JUCO baseball in Mississippi to playing for the Milwaukee Brewers. 

Tim's mental approach to the daily grind of minor league baseball is the exact reason why he made it to the show and still is playing in the Texas Rangers organization after 19 years.

In this episode...

• Walking away from a D1 offer
• Going from a 34th round draft pick to the MLB
• See a need - Fill a Need
• Why being a team player is so important
• The clubhouse and keeping teammates loose
• @dimtillard...follow on all social media platforms

Want To Work From Home
ENTRE Nation is the premiere online community of entrepreneurs.

Back Pain Relief Today
Is you back sore? Would you like to find relief today? Just click the link for a simple solution

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

View Details

After a conversation with Defensive Coordinator Luke Fickell, CJ Saunders decided to walk-on to one to The Ohio State University football team and play for Head Coach Urban Meyer.  We go behind the scenes and discuss...

• Urban Meyer and Ryan Day
• Receivers Coach Brian Hartline
• Intercepting Heisman winner Joe Burrow
• Getting playing time in a room full of future NFL players
• Why OSU is a where recruits want to play

Want To Work From Home
ENTRE Nation is the premiere online community of entrepreneurs.

Back Pain Relief Today
Is you back sore? Would you like to find relief today? Just click the link for a simple solution

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

View Details

Andy Singer (Fairview (OH) High School ) Head Baseball Coach talks about the challenges of running a successful program at the small school level.  Also, how one of his former players found a way to get back on the field despite a tragic accident.

Want To Work From Home
ENTRE Nation is the premiere online community of entrepreneurs.

Back Pain Relief Today
Is you back sore? Would you like to find relief today? Just click the link for a simple solution

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

View Details

Walsh Jesuit High School (OH) Head Baseball Coach Chris Kaczmar joins the Athlete 1 Podcast.  He take us behind the curtain of one of the most successful programs in the state of Ohio for the past 24 years.  Want to know why participating in high school sports is important?  Here's your chance.  This episode is great for coaches, players and parents.  Coach Kaczmar does it the right way.

Want To Work From Home
ENTRE Nation is the premiere online community of entrepreneurs.

Back Pain Relief Today
Is you back sore? Would you like to find relief today? Just click the link for a simple solution

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

View Details

I sit down with Ryan Alexander the Head Baseball Coach at Grove City (OH) High School and he lays out the secrets to running a successful program.   Coach Alexander has 27 players currently playing in college and 60 who have played at the next level since 2009!   

Want To Work From Home
ENTRE Nation is the premiere online community of entrepreneurs.

Back Pain Relief Today
Is you back sore? Would you like to find relief today? Just click the link for a simple solution

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

View Details

Go behind the scenes in 2006 with starting offensive lineman Arby Jones as he discusses the best season in Wake Forest Football history.  He takes you through overcoming two losing seasons to winning the ACC and heading to the Orange Bowl.

Want To Work From Home
ENTRE Nation is the premiere online community of entrepreneurs.

Back Pain Relief Today
Is you back sore? Would you like to find relief today? Just click the link for a simple solution

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

View Details

Chris Huesman - Dublin Jerome High School(OH) Baseball Head Coach discusses the secrets to his success and lessons learned along the way.

02:03 - Playing for John Tipton
06:18 - Otterbein University Dick Fishbaugh stories
12:12 - State Championship - Jonathan Alder HS
18:33 - Dublin Jerome HS 
28:00 - Umpire Story

Want to start a side hustle?  Click here; https://classwithjeff.com/shortcut/?aff=gmq64&t=

Want To Work From Home
ENTRE Nation is the premiere online community of entrepreneurs.

Back Pain Relief Today
Is you back sore? Would you like to find relief today? Just click the link for a simple solution

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.