Welcome to "Base Hits & Banter," the ultimate destination for softball enthusiasts! Join hosts Haylie McCleney, Olympic Silver Medalist and 3x World Champion, alongside Sam Fischer, former LMU softball standout and Team USA representative, as they dive into the world of softball like never before. From in-depth interviews with top players and coaches to insightful discussions on the latest news and trends in the sport, this podcast offers a unique blend of entertainment and education for pla ...
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Everything Fastpitch is a podcast hosted by Coach Tory Acheson and Coach Don McKinlay. Tory and Don are former college coaches that are now full time instructors and travel ball coaches. Since retiring form active collegiate coaching they have committed themselves to providing educational materials to the fastpitch community. This podcast is one of the resources they are providing. Their website has 500+ blog posts and they have a YouTube channel. All of these cover fastpitch softball from c ...
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Softball Speakeasy with Raine Wilson and Kelly Torres is your backstage pass to the world of elite softball. Join Raine, a seasoned broadcaster and analyst, and Kelly, her former Duke teammate turned professional player and Clemson graduate assistant, as they dive deep into the game they love. From the grind of training to the thrill of game day, Raine and Kelly bring you unfiltered stories, expert analysis, and insider insights. Whether you're a die-hard fan, a player aiming for the top, or ...
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The Fastpitch Radio Network is more than a single podcast about fastpitch softball. It is a network for fastpitch softball podcasts. My goal is to bring together great producers of the best fastpitch softball content on the planet. If you produce a podcast for the sport of fastpitch softball, and would like to get involved with the Fastpitch Radio Network email [email protected] for more information. The Fastpitch Radio Network is part of The Fastpitch TV Network located at http://Fastpi ...
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Fastpitch Online Showcase is the leader in Softball specific college recruiting.
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The Fearless Warrior Podcast, a place for athletes, coaches, and parents who know the value of a strong mindset. Each week, join Coach AB, founder of Fearless Fastpitch, known for the #1 Softball Specific Mental Training Program, as she dive’s deep into all things mental performance, mindset tools, how to rewire the brain for success, tackle topics like self doubt, failure, and subconscious beliefs that hold us back, and ultimately how to help your athletes become mentally stronger.
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Welcome to 'Your Family's Softball Journey,' where we're dedicated to elevating the world of girls' fastpitch softball! Join us as we dive deep into the heart of the sport, engaging in enlightening conversations with influential figures in the softball community. Our weekly episodes are packed with invaluable insights, covering a wide range of topics essential to your softball journey. We provide help with navigating the recruiting process, player development or targeted insight from current ...
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[Mentally Stronger Challenge] Help her handle things beyond her CONTROL.
28:51
28:51
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28:51MENTAL TRAINING REPLAY - DAY 5 CHALLENGE I’ll be explaining the WHY behind this challenge and HOW it relates to your mental game. Ready to learn the techniques that will actually increase your softball athlete's CONFIDENCE? A FREE 5 Day Challenge for Softball Athletes! Monday, May 5th - Friday, May 9th JOIN THE MENTALLY STRONGER CHALLENGE HERE! Mor…
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Brooke Denton: Building a D1 Dream | CAUGHT UP W/ Randy Kaye 052
56:35
56:35
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56:35Send us a text Brooke Denton is a 2026 middle infield prospect from Centennial High School in Peoria, Arizona — and her sights are set firmly on Division 1 softball. Driven, disciplined, and fiercely competitive, Brooke shares her journey of becoming the player she is today. Growing up in a family where sports were a way of life, Brooke was surroun…
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[Mentally Stronger Challenge] Build a CONNECTION with her.
17:12
17:12
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17:12MENTAL TRAINING REPLAY - DAY 4 CHALLENGE I’ll be explaining the WHY behind this challenge and HOW it relates to your mental game. Ready to learn the techniques that will actually increase your softball athlete's CONFIDENCE? A FREE 5 Day Challenge for Softball Athletes! Monday, May 5th - Friday, May 9th JOIN THE MENTALLY STRONGER CHALLENGE HERE! Mor…
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[Mentally Stronger Challenge] Help her show up with more CONFIDENCE.
26:53
26:53
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26:53MENTAL TRAINING REPLAY - DAY 3 CHALLENGE I’ll be explaining the WHY behind this challenge and HOW it relates to your mental game. Ready to learn the techniques that will actually increase your softball athlete's CONFIDENCE? A FREE 5 Day Challenge for Softball Athletes! Monday, May 5th - Friday, May 9th JOIN THE MENTALLY STRONGER CHALLENGE HERE! Mor…
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Help with right size bat / Travel players in rec ball / How much enthusiasm is too much? / Eliminate slow pitching excuse
44:00
44:00
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44:00This week's Lineup Warmup Segment Listener Question: Help with finding the right size bat (@14:35) Never ending discussion on travel players playing rec ball (@19:14) How much enthusiasm is too much? (@30:29) Eliminate I hate slow pitching excuse (@35:12) Support the showBy Tory Acheson & Don McKinlay
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In Week 13, Samu & Halo discuss the excitement surrounding the SEC tournament, analyze team performances, and reflect on the importance of mental health in softball. They explore pitching strategies, the dynamics of mid-major teams, and make predictions for the postseason. The conversation highlights the unpredictability of the season and the joy o…
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[Mentally Stronger Challenge] Help her OVERCOME her negative thoughts.
23:37
23:37
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23:37MENTAL TRAINING REPLAY - DAY 2 CHALLENGE I’ll be explaining the WHY behind this challenge and HOW it relates to your mental game. Ready to learn the techniques that will actually increase your softball athlete's CONFIDENCE? A FREE 5 Day Challenge for Softball Athletes! Monday, May 5th - Friday, May 9th JOIN THE MENTALLY STRONGER CHALLENGE HERE! Mor…
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[Mentally Stronger Challenge] Help her bounce back FASTER after mistakes.
27:31
27:31
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27:31MENTAL TRAINING REPLAY - DAY 1 CHALLENGE I’ll be explaining the WHY behind this challenge and HOW it relates to your mental game. Ready to learn the techniques that will actually increase your softball athlete's CONFIDENCE? A FREE 5 Day Challenge for Softball Athletes! Monday, May 5th - Friday, May 9th JOIN THE MENTALLY STRONGER CHALLENGE HERE! Mor…
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This week, Halo & Samu interview UCLA softball star Megan Grant. They discuss her impressive athletic achievements, the transition from the Pac-12 to the Big Ten, and her inspirations in sports. Megan shares her experiences as a multi-sport athlete, the origin of her nickname 'Chef', and her approach to social media as an athlete. The conversation …
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Mandy Gardner: From Pitcher to D1 Head Coach | CAUGHT UP W/ Randy Kaye 051
1:20:37
1:20:37
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1:20:37Send us a text Mandy Gardner, the dynamic head coach now leading Miami (OH) softball into a bold new era, shares her journey from elite pitcher to respected D1 leader. Raised in a Southern California sports powerhouse family — her dad coached NBA players like Klay Thompson and James Harden — Mandy’s story is packed with purpose, passion, and persis…
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Do you have to be a super star to be recruited? / Mad Dad Syndrome / Coaches Communicate / Teach Sliding
41:52
41:52
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41:52Warmup Segment Listener Question: Does a player have to be a super star to be recruited? (@12:22) Mad Dad Syndrome (@20:34) Coaches communicate properly (@31:29) Teach Sliding (@35:18) Support the showBy Tory Acheson & Don McKinlay
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In this episode of BH&B, Halo & Samu dive into the latest happenings in college softball, including Oklahoma's impressive performance, the selection of the USA National Team, and the dynamics of coaching and player roles. They discuss the struggles of Tennessee, the turnaround of Auburn, and the rise of Arkansas. The conversation also touches on pl…
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085: Parent Questions Answered: Is HS ball worth it? What to do if coaches have favorites? How to help with nerves? And More!
51:04
51:04
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51:04Coach Kara and I answer burning questions from parents about mindset challenges in sports. We discussed practical strategies to tackle common issues, from balancing coaching and parenting roles to managing game-day nervousness. • Mental skills training is preventative care, not a reactive solution • Controlling the controllable when facing frustrat…
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This week, Halo & Samu interview Bri Ellis, a standout player from the University of Arkansas. They discuss her impressive statistics, her mindset shift towards a more relaxed approach to hitting, and the importance of self-talk and mental health in sports. Bri shares her journey through the transfer portal, her experiences at Auburn, and how she f…
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Mike Candrea: Legendary Softball Coach & Mentor | CAUGHT UP W/ Randy Kaye 050
1:03:09
1:03:09
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1:03:09Send us a text With over three decades at the helm of Arizona softball and a record that includes 1,674 wins, 8 national championships, and Olympic gold, Coach Candrea’s legacy is undeniable — but his impact goes far beyond stats and trophies. In this heartfelt and revealing conversation, Mike reflects on his journey from a junior college baseball …
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Natalie Castro: Manager of Underground Bats | CAUGHT UP W/ Randy Kaye 049
53:57
53:57
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53:57Send us a text Former college standout Natalie Castro has taken her hustle from the softball field to the business world as manager of Underground Bats. She shares her journey from slapping singles to running a nationwide sales team. Natalie talks about competitive pricing, connecting with customers, staying neutral in a political softball world, a…
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Can we save college sports? / High School Politics / Rec and travel issues / Greatest coaches of all time
41:57
41:57
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41:57Warmup Segment Listener Question: Can we save college sports? (@10:55) High School Politics (@18:29) Rec and travel issues (@27:41) Greatest coaches of all time (@35:19) Support the showBy Tory Acheson & Don McKinlay
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In this episode of Base Hits & Banter, Halo & Samu dive into the latest happenings in college softball, focusing on key matchups, standout performances, and the dynamics of the SEC. They discuss the intense LSU vs Texas series, Florida's resurgence, Oklahoma's bounce-back performance, and the implications of record attendance at a Stanford vs Cal g…
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084: How Nutrition Can Get You to the Next Level with Brooke Miller, RD, CLC
35:41
35:41
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35:41Brooke Miller, a dietitian and former college softball pitcher, gives us the lowdown on how to take care of our bodies as athletes. She shares insights on athletic performance nutrition, the importance of fueling for success, and navigating identity transitions beyond sports. Episode Highlights: • Proper nutrition directly affects energy, brain fun…
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In this week's episode, Taylor Shoemaker, a standout freshman at the University of Florida, shares her journey in college softball, discussing her transition from high school to the competitive SEC environment. She emphasizes the importance of mental approach, dealing with failure, and the support from teammates and coaches. Taylor also shares her …
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Tony Gilio: Founder of Operation Player Assist | CAUGHT UP W/ Randy Kaye 048
50:38
50:38
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50:38Send us a text Former college and pro baseball player Tony Gilio shares the story behind Operation Player Assist, a platform designed to help athletes and families handle the rising costs of youth sports. From building a backyard batting tunnel to coaching D1 athletes (his own kids), Tony dives into parenting, coaching, fundraising, and why access …
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Comments on lack of pitchers / Feedback on Rec League participation / California players / Pre-game routine
35:46
35:46
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35:46This week's lineup Warmup Segment Listener Question: Comments about lack of pitchers (@8:24) Feedback about travel ball players participating in Rec Leagues (@16:12) Why so many California players in college (@24:25) Have a pre-game routine (@30:22) Support the showBy Tory Acheson & Don McKinlay
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This week, Halo & Samu dive into the exciting world of college softball, discussing the latest games, standout performances, and coaching philosophies. They highlight Texas A&M's unexpected sweep of LSU, the importance of hard work and dedication in the sport, and the historic rivalry between Alabama and Oklahoma. The conversation also touches on t…
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083: How I Use Mental Skills to Fuel My Fitness Journey - Featured on The Real Life Runners Podcast with Angie Brown
1:03:20
1:03:20
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1:03:20This week, I'm taking you behind the scenes of my fitness journey. I recently had a great conversation with my friend, Dr. Angie Brown, DPT, on her Real Life Runners podcast, where I explored how I utilize mental skills in the gym and the significant impact it's had on my approach to exercise as a busy mom and entrepreneur. Episode Highlights: • Fo…
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Amanda Lorenz: The Power of Passion & Determination
28:01
28:01
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28:01This week on Base Hits & Banter, Amanda Lorenz shares her journey as a professional softball player, reflecting on her experiences from college to Team USA and the new Athletes Unlimited league. She discusses the importance of passion, hard work, and the lessons learned from her coach, Tim Walton, while also emphasizing the growth of the sport and …
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Lauren Watts: Pitching Coach at Southern Illinois | CAUGHT UP W/ Randy Kaye 047
59:59
59:59
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59:59Send us a text Lauren Watts, current pitching coach at Southern Illinois and former Adelphi University standout, shares her journey from small-town Alabama to the college coaching world. She opens up about managing a young pitching staff, navigating pressure in high-stakes games, and the mindset needed to grow as both an athlete and a coach. She di…
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Mental training for players and psychological intervention for parents / 11 inch ball to the 12 inch ball / Rec ball / Plan for all player's needs
51:47
51:47
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51:47This week's Lineup Warmup Segment Listener Statement: Mental training for players and psychological intervention for parents (@12:57) Transitioning from the 11 inch ball to the 12 inch ball (@21:47) What's happened to Rec ball (@32:34) Plan for all player's needs not an isolated one (@44:36) Support the show…
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In this episode, hosts Sam Fischer and Haylie McCleney dive into the latest happenings in college softball, discussing thrilling matchups, standout performances, and the evolving landscape of the sport. They reflect on the Arkansas vs. Florida series, Alabama's struggles against LSU, and Iowa's impressive upset. The conversation also touches on the…
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082: How Megan Faraimo Used Self-Talk to Propel Her Softball Career
29:47
29:47
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29:47Megan Faraimo, a professional softball pitcher for the Toyota Red Terriers in Japan and Team USA silver medalist, shared her journey with our Warriors in our October 2024 Mentorship Call. She provides powerful insights into how mental skills have shaped her successful career despite facing continued challenges at every level. Episode Highlights: • …
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This week, Karlyn Pickens — who recently broke the record for fastest pitch in NCAA softball history — shares her journey as a standout college softball player, discussing her experiences, challenges, and aspirations. From her intense competition against teams like Oklahoma to her development as a pitcher, Karlyn emphasizes the importance of teamwo…
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Andrew Rich: Head Coach of Idaho State Softball | CAUGHT UP W/ Randy Kaye Ep.046
1:03:46
1:03:46
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1:03:46Send us a text Andrew Rich, the head coach of the Idaho State softball team, has led the program to new levels of success since taking over in 2021. Under his leadership, the Bengals have captured a regular season title and he has been recognized as Big Sky Coach of the Year. Discussing his coaching journey, the program's recent accomplishments, hi…
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Impact of NCAA changes / Great Mechanics-Poor Performance / Parents to parents politics / Rundown disasters
1:07:47
1:07:47
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1:07:47This week's lineup Warmup Segment Listener Question: What impact will all the new NCAA changes on the horizon have? (@18:35) Great hitting mechanics, but fails in a game (@30:51) Managing parents to parents politics (@45:08) Rundown disasters (@56:01) Support the showBy Tory Acheson & Don McKinlay
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This week, Samu & Halo recap an exciting weekend in college softball, discussing key matchups, standout performances, and the impact of technology on the game. They highlight the Tennessee vs. Oklahoma series, Alabama's resilience, South Carolina's surprising rise, Virginia Tech's sweep over Stanford, and Mississippi State's upset against Texas. Th…
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Anise Romo: Elevating Women’s Softball | CAUGHT UP W/ Randy Kaye 045
59:56
59:56
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59:56Send us a text Anise Romo, a standout college athlete balancing her softball career with a demanding mechanical engineering degree at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. They discuss discipline, leadership, and how to stay on top both on and off the field. Instagram: @anise.romo Produced by Yael Martin and Dalton Fisher, Fisher Multimedia LLC Fis…
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081: How to Start the Recruiting Process and Stand Out to College Coaches with Coach Carter
33:41
33:41
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33:41We are re-airing a parent workshop with Coach Ashley Carter for this week's episode! She is a hitting coach for D1 Hampton University and a mental performance coach. She gives us the inside scoop on what she looks for in a collegiate athlete and answers questions about the college recruiting process. Episode Highlights: • Steps in the recruiting ti…
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Coach Tory shares a situation where he had to listen to a coach go into a tirade with his team. This is not how to coach especially early in the season. Listen as the coaches discuss this type of behavior. Support the showBy Tory Acheson & Don McKinlay
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This week, Sam Fischer and guest host Amanda Lorenz welcome Tracy Morgan, the commissioner of USA Softball of Alabama. They discuss Tracy's extensive journey in softball, her community engagement through various tournaments, and the importance of giving back to the community. Tracy shares memorable moments from her experiences, advice for tournamen…
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Age cutoff changes and tryouts / College observations / Spend wisely / Teach skills correctly
53:21
53:21
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53:21This week's lineup Warmup Segment Listener Question: Age cutoff changes may be affecting tryout situation (@14:44) College season observations (@24:00) Spend your money wisely (@38:29) Teach skills correctly from the beginning (@45:43) Support the showBy Tory Acheson & Don McKinlay
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In Week 7, Halo & Samu dive into the latest happenings in the world of softball, discussing key matchups, standout performances, and the evolving landscape of women's sports. They analyze Missouri's surprising victory over Oklahoma, Alabama's competitive spirit, Liberty's quiet dominance, and the challenges faced by Auburn and Duke. The conversatio…
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080: Why Finding the Right Fit Matters More Than Division with Maleah Andrews
30:09
30:09
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30:09We are airing our Mentorship Call from last week with Maleah Andrews! She is a college softball standout who shares her journey from multi-sport high school athlete to record-breaking infielder and batter at Western Washington University. Episode Highlights: • Playing multiple sports develops skills that transfer between games • Communication matte…
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In today's environment in the travel ball world, it is imperative that a coach have a strategy/plan on handling their lineup. And it needs to be communicated to the players and parents and be adhered to if you want to have to a better experience. Support the showBy Tory Acheson & Don McKinlay
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This week, Halo & Samu welcome back Chris Sebren, the Chief Sport Development and Performance Officer for USA Softball. They discuss Chris's role and responsibilities, the High Performance Program, the growth of softball internationally, the rise of men's fast pitch, and preparations for the upcoming 2028 Olympics. Chris shares insights on the sele…
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The Truth About Duke Softball’s Struggles (And What’s Next)
27:58
27:58
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27:58This week on Softball Speakeasy, Raine and Kelly reunite to break down the Duke vs. Clemson series, analyze what’s behind Duke’s struggles, and debate the best way to prepare for a tough season. They also dive into the rise of UNC and Syracuse, what makes Florida State so dangerous, and the power of belief in softball. Plus, Raine shares a lesson f…
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Can tryouts already be a problem? / Playing in a football stadium / Eating better / Do they understand us?
52:30
52:30
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52:30This week's Lineup Warmup Segment Listener Question: Fallout from trying out for next year's team already this year (@16:04) Stanford playing in football stadium (@27:57) Eating better at tournaments (@38:30) Communicating with language, phrases and vocabulary that matches your player's level (@44:39) Support the show…
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In Week 6, Halo & Samu recap the latest happenings in college softball, highlighting standout performances, team dynamics, and emerging programs. They discuss the dominance of Oklahoma, the surprising performance of Texas, and the struggles of Auburn. The conversation also touches on coaching changes, NCAA leaders, and predictions for the SEC and N…
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079: When Mental Skills Become Your Secret Weapon as a Coach with Lindsey Wilson
39:42
39:42
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39:42For this week's episode, I interviewed Lindsey Wilson, a former collegiate and professional basketball player turned mental performance coach! She gave us insight into her 20-year career and the impact mental skills training had on her athletics and beyond. Episode Highlights: • Practice concrete, actionable mental tools rather than vague concepts …
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Coaches - You must have a player to player communication system, practice it and make sure it is implemented. Support the showBy Tory Acheson & Don McKinlay
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Erin White: Founder of Gear Up Catching | CAUGHT UP W/ Randy Kaye 044
1:17:32
1:17:32
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1:17:32Send us a text Erin White, founder and head coach of Gear Up Catching, shares her background in catcher development and her focus on holistic athlete development. She talks about the evolution of softball, the importance of physical and mental preparation for players, and how she has turned her passion into a successful business. She also reflects …
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Join host Haylie McCleney and Sam Fischer as they dive into the complexities of mental health in sports, particularly in softball. They discuss the pressures athletes face during the season, the importance of maintaining a positive mindset, and the necessity of being present in the moment. The conversation emphasizes the significance of self-belief…
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Legacy & Leadership: The Maddie Moore Story
48:12
48:12
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48:12Welcome to Softball Speakeasy, your all-access, unfiltered look into the world of elite softball. Hosted by former Duke softball player, current professional softball player and graduate assistant coach Kelly Torres, this podcast brings you behind the scenes with some of the game's biggest names. In this episode, we sit down with Clemson softball s…
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