Don't Suck: Life, Family & Softball

Ronald Smith

Don’t Suck: Life, Family & Softball is a father-daughter podcast where passion meets the grind. Hosted by Ronald and Madison Smith, we dive into the highs, lows, and lessons learned from the game of softball and how they apply to life beyond the field. From early morning workouts to late-night tournaments, and road trips—we talk about the dedication, sacrifices, and unforgettable moments that come with chasing dreams. Expect real conversations, funny stories, competitive debates, and insights into the softball journey, plus a little family banter along the way. Whether you’re a player, parent, coach, or just love the game, Don’t Suck is here to keep it real. No excuses, no regrets, just hustle.

Episodes

  1. 08/10/2025

    Bump, Set, Success: A Libero's Path to College Volleyball

    Send us a text Ever wondered what it takes to transition from high school sports to college athletics? In this groundbreaking episode, we welcome our first-ever non-softball guest, Brooke, a volleyball libero who recently committed to Mercer University. Brooke takes us through her journey from elementary school cheerleader to collegiate volleyball player, sharing candid insights about club volleyball travel, competitive high school experiences, and the recruitment process that ultimately led her to Mercer. Her story of becoming state runner-up with Saraland High School—a first in school history—showcases both her athletic prowess and leadership qualities. What stands out most is Brooke's mental approach to the game. "I'm meant to be here. I worked really hard to get all the way here. And I deserve it," she affirms when discussing her mindset entering college competition. This powerful self-belief, coupled with her ability to maintain composure during pressure situations, offers valuable lessons for athletes in any sport. The conversation delves into fascinating volleyball-specific details—from the challenges of serve-receive to pre-game rituals—while also exploring universal themes like balancing academics with athletics, handling recruitment pressure, and finding your sense of belonging. When Brooke says, "When I step on the court, I feel at ease because I feel like I'm at where I'm supposed to be," it resonates beyond volleyball. For parents of athletes, coaches, or anyone interested in women's sports, this episode provides authentic perspectives on the emotional and practical aspects of pursuing athletic dreams. Whether you're navigating recruitment yourself or simply appreciate stories of determination and growth, Brooke's journey will inspire you to embrace challenges and find where you truly belong. Have questions about volleyball, recruiting, or student-athlete life? Drop us a comment or reach out on social media—we'd love to continue this conversation!

    58 min

  2. 06/26/2025

    Let's Line Up and Be Friends: Lessons for the Alabama State Games

    Send us a text Ever wondered what happens when a talented softball player freezes at the sight of college coaches? In this revealing episode, Madison and Ronald Smith tackle the nerve-wracking world of college softball recruiting from both player and parent perspectives. Madison opens up about her paralyzing anxiety when approaching coaches, sharing a particularly mortifying moment when she rehearsed a conversation for 15 minutes only to be immediately shut down. This father-daughter dynamic perfectly captures the tension many softball families experience—a determined parent encouraging their athlete to seize opportunities while the player navigates very real social fears. We challenge the problematic mindset where young players are pressured about recruitment far too early, creating unnecessary anxiety during developmental years. With the evolution of NIL deals and transfer portals, we explore how the recruiting landscape continues to shift, potentially making high school recruitment less emphasized than in previous generations. The episode takes an exciting turn as Ronald shares their transformative experience at the Alabama State Games—from Olympic-style opening ceremonies to heartwarming Miracle League baseball games where every contest ends with "Let's line up, shake hands and be friends." This multi-sport celebration offered a powerful reminder of sport's ability to build community beyond competition. Whether you're a softball parent wondering how to support your athlete through recruitment, a player struggling with coach interactions, or simply love hearing authentic sports stories, this conversation offers valuable insights wrapped in genuine, unfiltered family moments. Tune in to discover why the mental game matters most and how finding your voice can be the biggest challenge in your athletic journey.

    1h 9m

  3. 06/08/2025

    Beyond the Numbers: The Real Story Behind Madison's Sophomore Season

    Send us a text Madison confronts the fascinating paradox of softball success: batting .365 while battling a crisis of confidence. This raw, honest conversation peels back the layers of what happens when statistical achievement doesn't align with an athlete's self-perception. The father-daughter duo dives deep into Madison's sophomore season stats - a .365 batting average with 37 hits including 10 doubles and a home run, alongside pitching numbers that include a 2.5 ERA across exactly 100 innings. But beneath these impressive figures lies a mental struggle that many athletes will recognize: "I could care less if my batting average said I was hitting .500 for the season. I still would feel like I hit awful." We explore the stark contrast between school ball pressure and travel ball freedom, with Madison sharing how travel tournaments offered her a psychological reset: "None of them know how my school ball season went... so it's just like a brand new beginning." The discussion illuminates how environment impacts performance, with Madison finding her confidence returned dramatically during recent travel ball games where she hit over .600. The episode also tackles serious concerns about how girls' sports are treated in Alabama high school athletics, highlighting questionable scheduling decisions that forced some teams to play six games in a single day during regional tournaments. This passionate conversation showcases why softball families advocate for better treatment of female athletes. Whether you're a player battling your own mental game, a parent trying to support an athlete through confidence struggles, or a coach looking to better understand the psychological side of softball, this episode delivers powerful insights about the space between statistical success and emotional experience. Join us for this candid look at what happens when the numbers say one thing, but your mind tells you another. Hit us up at dontsucklfs.podcast@yahoo.com or on Facebook if you're interested in our new merch or the upcoming Alabama Sports Games scholarship opportunity!

    1 hr

  4. 04/28/2025

    Dugout Wisdom: Beyond D1 or Bust

    Send us a text What happens when your "dream" D1 offer doesn't actually feel right? Emily Mizelle's softball journey reveals a truth many athletes need to hear: sometimes the path everyone expects you to take isn't the one your heart needs. From her early days in teal and pink cupcake socks to becoming a record-breaking high school standout at Baker, Emily was on the traditional elite softball trajectory. She received the coveted D1 offer, signed on the dotted line, and should have been celebrating. Instead, her body literally rejected the decision—breaking out in stress-induced hives on her official visit. Despite external pressure pushing her forward, Emily made the courageous choice to walk away and attend Jones College, a Mississippi JUCO. The result? Two transformative years of softball where she thrived both athletically (becoming an All-American with 20+ home runs) and personally. "JUCOs invest in you more personally," Emily explains. "I know all my professors, all my professors know me." Most importantly, she found joy in the game again while discovering her path toward dental hygiene. Emily's story carries powerful wisdom beyond softball metrics. When asked what her teammates would say about her, she responded: "I genuinely think they would tell you that I would run through a brick wall for them." Her mentorship of younger players, including host Madison when she was pulled up to varsity as a seventh-grader, demonstrates the leadership that transcends statistics. Whether you're a young athlete feeling pressured about college decisions, a parent supporting a softball player, or simply someone facing difficult choices, Emily's journey reminds us that following your authentic path—even when it defies expectations—leads to the most meaningful success. As she puts it: "If you can walk away and say you gave everything, if you can walk away and regret nothing, that's when you know it's okay."

    1h 30m

  5. 04/15/2025

    Sunflower Seeds and Sacrifice: The Mama Kelli Episode

    Send us a text Every athlete's journey is shaped by the invisible support system standing behind them. In this special episode, we welcome our most requested guest – Mama Kelli – who pulls back the curtain on what it truly means to raise a dedicated softball player. Kelli shares the emotional rollercoaster of watching Madison navigate both triumphs and struggles on the field, revealing that the hardest part isn't the financial investment or logistical challenges, but "watching Madison struggle or hearing negative comments about her." Yet in the same breath, she identifies the most rewarding aspect as seeing her daughter overcome those very struggles. The conversation explores the delicate art of supporting without smothering. Kelli and Ronald have intentionally fostered Madison's independence from a young age, teaching her to advocate for herself with teachers and coaches alike. "Madison has to learn how to handle things on her own," Kelli explains, offering wisdom for parents who might be tempted to fight all their child's battles. We dive into memorable tournaments – from expensive 10U trips that raised eyebrows to the growth moment when 14-year-old Madison pitched for an 18U team of college-bound players. Kelli candidly discusses the sacrifices made ("we no longer have a backyard"), the importance of the upcoming recruiting summer, and the life lesson she hopes Madison carries forever: "Never quit." Whether you're a softball parent seeking guidance, a player curious about the parental perspective, or someone who appreciates authentic family dynamics, this episode offers heartfelt insights into the foundation that supports athletic dreams. Subscribe now and join our growing community spanning six countries and counting!

    32 min

  6. 04/13/2025

    The Roller Coaster of Tournament Victory After Defeat

    Send us a text A rollercoaster week of softball reveals the mental toughness required to overcome adversity and find success when it matters most. We start with an embarrassing April Fool's prank (yes, Mom actually got me good) before diving into the week's emotional journey from triumph to disappointment and back again. The early-week area game against MGM proved challenging, as our bats went quiet in a crucial 1-4 loss that postponed our chance to secure the area championship. This led to some difficult but necessary conversations about game approach, communication between parents and players, and the importance of timing when providing feedback after tough losses. The weekend's Saraland Invitational tournament showcased our resilience in dramatic fashion. After dropping Friday night games to both Daphne (facing a D1 commit throwing 68-70 mph) and Spanish Fort in extra innings, we could have easily folded. Instead, we regrouped and won four straight games on Saturday, including a redemption win against MGM and ultimately defeating Spanish Fort 5-4 in extra innings to claim the tournament championship. Throughout our conversations, we explore the mental challenges of softball — finally connecting against a pitcher who's had your number all season, making necessary adjustments at the plate, and handling the pressure of championship moments. We also tackle the noticeable double standard in how emotional responses are judged in softball compared to baseball, opening up important conversations about expectations and gender in athletics. As our podcast journey continues to grow beyond what we ever imagined, reaching listeners across multiple countries and cities, we're excited to create opportunities for young athletes to share their stories and connect with the broader softball community. Join us each week for honest, unfiltered discussions about softball, family dynamics, and the important life lessons we learn between the lines.

    48 min

  7. 04/09/2025

    Strike Out Your Doubts, Not Your Confidence

    Send us a text What happens when your athletic performance feels inseparable from your personal identity? We're diving deep into the psychological tightrope that competitive athletes walk every day. Madison shares her impressive week on the mound with 12 innings pitched, zero earned runs, and a new personal speed record against tough competition. But beyond the stats lies a more profound conversation about maintaining mental health while pursuing excellence. "It's something I've grown up doing since I was four years old. When you have a bad game, it feels like your whole day is ruined." This vulnerability opens the door to examining how young athletes can separate their worth from their performance while still striving to improve. We explore practical strategies for developing a multifaceted identity beyond softball, including engaging in other activities and adopting a growth mindset. The conversation tackles whether the pressure to perform is creating players who lose their love for the game, and questions if the intensive travel ball schedule serves young athletes' best interests. For parents, coaches, and athletes navigating the competitive sports landscape, this episode offers a refreshingly honest look at building resilience. You'll gain insight into how confidence doesn't require perfection – it's built through embracing challenges and recognizing that even at the highest levels, everyone struggles sometimes. Listen now to gain perspective on how to maintain your passion for the game while protecting your mental health. Share your own experiences with athletic identity in the comments or reach out on social media – we'd love to continue this important conversation!

    35 min

  8. 04/08/2025

    When the Love of the Game Fades: Claudia's Story of Walking Away and Looking Back

    Send us a text What happens when the love of a sport begins to fade under the weight of social pressure? This deeply personal episode takes us into producer Claudia's experience of walking away from softball in high school – a decision she now views as quitting too soon. Madison flips the script, taking on the role of interviewer to explore Claudia's journey through a series of thoughtful questions that reveal the complex emotions behind leaving the game. "I would tell myself don't worry about what other people think about you, it does not freaking matter. Do what you love," Claudia reflects, offering wisdom that resonates far beyond the diamond. Her candid admission that quitting made it easier to walk away from other challenges in life opens up a powerful conversation about perseverance, regret, and growth. Before diving into this emotional territory, the team breaks down Baker's narrow 15-13 victory over MGM, where errors nearly cost them the game. Madison shares her embarrassing moment of letting a ball roll between her legs in right field – a refreshingly honest look at how even experienced players face moments of failure. The episode beautifully balances humor (the team debates what dog breeds they would be, with Claudia unanimously labeled a Chihuahua) with profound insights about identity and decision-making. Through Claudia's story, we're reminded that sometimes our greatest regrets come from letting others influence decisions about the things we truly love. Have you ever walked away from something you loved? Share your story with us and join the conversation about finding the strength to push through difficult seasons rather than quitting too soon.

    40 min

  9. 04/06/2025

    You're only as good as how you handle your worst moments.

    Send us a text Resilience isn't built in comfort zones – it's forged in seventh-grade championship games when you walk in the winning run while teammates whisper behind your back.  Madison opens up about her current season stats (.400 batting average with 53 strikeouts on the mound) while diving deeper into the mental challenges that have shaped her approach to softball and life. Her story of walking in a winning run during a middle school championship game becomes a powerful lesson in handling failure and criticism. When faced with the same opponent a year later and achieving redemption, her matter-of-fact response – "That was last year" – reveals a maturity beyond her years. The conversation shifts to practical advice for young athletes struggling to balance academics, sports, and social life. Madison emphasizes prioritizing schoolwork while surrounding yourself with friends who share similar goals and commitments. Her father's wisdom echoes throughout: "Be better than what you feel today" when faced with negativity. Perhaps most valuable is Madison's perspective on building team culture, particularly how to support younger players. Drawing from her own experience of being pulled up to play with much older teammates, she demonstrates how proper communication and offering practical help rather than just criticism creates stronger teams and better players. The recurring mantra "the circle doesn't define you" serves as a powerful reminder that softball, like all sports, is ultimately about developing character, resilience, and perspective that extends far beyond the field. For players, parents, and coaches alike, this episode offers a thoughtful exploration of how sports can shape not just athletes, but whole people. How are you building resilience in your game? Share your story or leave a review to join the conversation!

    33 min

  10. 04/01/2025

    Behind Home Plate: Navigating Parental Mistakes and Teen Trust

    Send us a text Parenting is a delicate balance between friendship and authority - but what happens when those lines blur? In this candid conversation, Ronald, Madison, and Claudia explore one of the most challenging aspects of raising children: deciding whether and when to share your past mistakes with your kids. Ronald opens up about his approach to parenting Madison, revealing how he's cultivated a relationship built on honesty while maintaining clear boundaries. "I have been more of a friend to Madison, but I think Madison knows where the line is with me," he explains, highlighting his philosophy that trust creates safety. This perspective comes from his experience becoming a father at 19, which he describes as his "greatest mistake" that transformed into his greatest blessing. The discussion takes an unexpected turn when Claudia offers a counterbalancing perspective, sharing how her own rebellious teenage years taught her that too much parental disclosure can sometimes backfire. "Growing up I'd always be like, 'oh well, you did this, why can't I do it?'" she explains, sparking a thoughtful examination of how timing, context, and presentation matter significantly when revealing personal history to your children. Between Quick Pitch Questions featuring Madison's childhood imaginary puppies and the weekend softball tournament recap, the conversation builds toward its central question: does transparency from parents make children more likely to share their own struggles? Ronald's passionate answer reveals what might be the true purpose behind sharing our imperfect pasts - creating a lifeline for our children when they need it most. "If you're in that situation, let's talk about it," he emphasizes, highlighting that safety and trust should ultimately guide every parenting decision. Join us for this thought-provoking episode that goes beyond softball strategy to examine the heart of parent-child relationships. We'd love to hear your thoughts - reach out on social media or email us at DontSuckLFSPodcast@Yahoo.com!

    41 min

  11. 03/31/2025

    Is That Blister Worth Your Future? The Mental Game of Playing Through Pain

    Send us a text The toughest conversations in sports often revolve around pain – when to push through it and when to protect yourself from long-term damage. In this thought-provoking episode, softball pitcher Madison and her father Ron tackle this complex topic with raw honesty drawn from their own experiences. When Madison reveals she threw a staggering 373 pitches in a single tournament weekend while battling a painful finger injury, it opens a deeper discussion about the pressures young athletes face. "If you're that worried about losing your spot on the team because of an injury, go find a new team," Ron candidly shares, challenging the win-at-all-costs mentality that permeates competitive sports. The episode takes an emotional turn when Claudia recounts her harrowing experience with knee dislocations caused by improper pitching mechanics – injuries she had to learn to prevent on her own when coaches didn't address the fundamental flaws in her technique. Her story highlights the critical importance of proper coaching and injury prevention over performance at all costs. Perhaps the most powerful moment comes when the group articulates a philosophy that should resonate with athletes everywhere: "Athletes should be selfless until it comes time to their body, and then it's time to be selfish." This perspective shift acknowledges the reality that while games come and go, the physical consequences of playing through serious injuries can last a lifetime. Whether you're a player, parent, or coach, this episode will transform how you think about athletic toughness and the responsibility we all share in creating a healthier sports culture. Listen now and join the conversation about protecting young athletes while fostering genuine mental and physical resilience.

    41 min

  12. 03/30/2025

    Beyond the Strike Zone: The Mental Game of Being a Young Athlete

    Send us a text What does it take for a young athlete to chase a college scholarship while navigating the pressures of high school sports? Madison Smith, a sophomore pitcher at Baker High School with dreams of playing college softball, opens up alongside her father Ron in this candid conversation about the realities of competitive youth sports. From the nervous excitement of her first varsity game in 7th grade to her current position as an established pitcher for both her high school team and the Mississippi Bombers travel team, Madison shares the dedication required to excel. Her offseason regimen—attending college camps, taking specialized pitching and hitting lessons, and even building a backyard batting cage—reveals the commitment necessary to pursue athletic dreams at the next level. The heart of this episode emerges when father and daughter tackle the delicate balance of parental involvement in youth sports. Ron acknowledges the substantial financial and time investments parents make while Madison offers powerful insight into the athlete's perspective: "When you strike out or throw a really bad game...you are in your head like 'Oh my gosh, you really suck'...and then if you're hearing somebody yelling at you...that just tears down your mental health." Their refreshingly honest discussion about performance anxiety, the pressure of being "the pitcher with all eyes on you," and recovering from disappointing outings provides valuable wisdom for athletes and parents alike. The meaning behind their podcast title "Don't Suck" reveals itself as their unique shorthand—not harsh criticism, but a lighthearted way of communicating support through both triumphs and struggles. Join us each week as we follow Madison's journey, complete with real-time stats, game highlights, and the mental challenges that come with pursuing athletic excellence. Whether you're an athlete, parent, or coach, this father-daughter conversation offers authentic insight into the world of competitive softball and the resilience required to thrive in it.

    26 min
  • 12 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

Don’t Suck: Life, Family & Softball is a father-daughter podcast where passion meets the grind. Hosted by Ronald and Madison Smith, we dive into the highs, lows, and lessons learned from the game of softball and how they apply to life beyond the field. From early morning workouts to late-night tournaments, and road trips—we talk about the dedication, sacrifices, and unforgettable moments that come with chasing dreams. Expect real conversations, funny stories, competitive debates, and insights into the softball journey, plus a little family banter along the way. Whether you’re a player, parent, coach, or just love the game, Don’t Suck is here to keep it real. No excuses, no regrets, just hustle.

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