Explore every episode of the podcast BASEBALL COACHES UNPLUGGED
Dive into the complete episode list for BASEBALL COACHES UNPLUGGED. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
In 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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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
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.
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
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
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
Kurt Hines - Coronado High School (CA) Head Football Coach
Relationship Building
In this insightful episode of Baseball Coaches Unplugged, we delve into the art of relationship building with Kurt Hines, the esteemed Head Football Coach at Coronado High School in California. Kurt shares his invaluable experiences and strategies on how to forge strong, meaningful connections with players, which are crucial for fostering a positive team environment and achieving success on and off the field.
Kurt emphasizes the importance of trust, communication, and empathy in building relationships with athletes. He discusses practical techniques for coaches to connect with their players on a personal level, understand their individual needs, and create a supportive atmosphere where players feel valued and motivated.
Listeners will gain actionable insights on how to navigate the challenges of coaching, manage conflicts, and inspire their teams to perform at their best. Kurt's wisdom and real-world examples provide a roadmap for coaches at all levels to enhance their relationship-building skills and lead their teams to greatness.
Whether you're a seasoned coach or just starting out, this episode is packed with valuable lessons that will transform your coaching approach and help you build lasting bonds with your players.
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
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
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
Best trick plays
You can follow Walter Beede - @baseballlifer11 (Twitter)
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.
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
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.
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.
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
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
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!
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
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 at https://www.athlete1.net
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
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.
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
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
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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
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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
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.
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
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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
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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
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
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.
This engaging episode of Baseball Coaches Unplugged, we sit down with Art Senato, the dynamic Head Coach of the Centennial Spartans High School Baseball Team in Burleson, Texas. Art takes us behind the scenes to share his journey and insights on building a successful high school baseball program from the ground up.
Art discusses the challenges and triumphs of his first year as head coach, offering practical advice on program development, player recruitment, and team culture. He emphasizes the importance of creating a positive and inclusive environment where players can thrive and grow both as athletes and individuals.
Listeners will gain valuable knowledge on effective coaching strategies, fostering player development, and building a winning mentality. Art's experience and passion for the game shine through as he provides actionable tips for coaches looking to make a lasting impact on their teams.
Whether you're a new coach or have years of experience, this episode is packed with wisdom and inspiration to help you build a strong and successful high school baseball program.
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
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.
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.
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
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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.
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