The SLIDE Podcast - Youth Baseball & Softball Podcast

Coach Aaron
The SLIDE Podcast - Youth Baseball & Softball Podcast

The SLIDE Podcast is the premier youth baseball and softball show delivering expert insights, training tips, and inspiring stories from America's favorite pastime. Our international team of 23 field reporters and hosts brings you weekly episodes featuring exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and baseball influencers. From MLB-bound prospects to grassroots development, we cover every aspect of youth baseball and softball. Our comprehensive content includes technique breakdowns, coaching strategies, and player development stories that help athletes, parents, and coaches maximize their potential in the game. Join our growing community of baseball and softball enthusiasts every Friday as we showcase the future stars of the game, share expert coaching advice, and celebrate the spirit of youth sports. #YouthBaseball #BaseballCoaching #YouthSports #MLBProspects #SoftballTraining

  1. 4D AGO

    Grit, Glory, and the Big Leagues w/ Jonny Gomes

    Grit, Glory, and the Big Leagues Grit, Glory, and the Big Leagues take listeners inside the world of professional baseball. This episode explores the grit, mental toughness, and resilience it takes to succeed in the MLB. Listeners will hear firsthand how players develop the mental game, handle high-pressure moments, and adjust to the evolving landscape of baseball. The Journey from Underdog to MLB Star Not all players follow the same path to the big leagues. This episode highlights how determination and perseverance can overcome obstacles. The transition from junior college to the MLB isn’t easy, but it proves that hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard. Learn more about the MLB journey from an official source: Jonny Gomes’ MLB Career Stats Lessons from the Red Sox & Royals Championships Winning a World Series is the pinnacle of a baseball career. But what separates championship teams from struggling ones? This episode explores the importance of leadership, team chemistry, and clubhouse culture. The difference between a title-winning team and a last-place squad isn’t always talent—it’s mindset and preparation. The Mental Game: What Separates Great Players Baseball is often called a thinking man’s game. The best hitters succeed because of mechanics, timing, pitch recognition, and in-game adjustments. This episode covers how understanding pitchers, anticipating sequences, and developing a routine can make a good player great. Banana Ball & The Future of Baseball Baseball is evolving, and the Savannah Bananas are leading the charge. This episode explains why Banana Ball’s high-energy, fast-paced style changes how fans experience the game. The discussion also touches on how international leagues, like in Japan, bring a different level of discipline and passion to baseball. Walk-Up Songs & Baseball Culture Baseball is more than just statistics—it’s about emotion, connection, and tradition. Walk-up songs set the stage for every at-bat, and players often tailor their music choices to reflect their city’s culture. Whether it’s Dropkick Murphys in Boston or E-40 in Oakland, music brings an electric energy to the game. Check out another SLIDE Podcast episode featuring an MLB Agent: Big Business of Baseball with Joseph Guzman Follow The SLIDE Podcast! Please email us for any questions or feedback. Help us grow by leaving a 5-star review and a question—we’ll answer it on the show! You might even get the chance to co-host an episode. Email: TheSlidePodcastShow@gmail.com Website: www.theslidepodcastshow.com All Links: https://linktr.ee/theslidepodcastshow YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theslidepodcastshow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheSlidePodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theslidepodcastshow/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theslidepodcastshow?lang=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/theslidepodcast X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/theslidepod

  2. FEB 28

    Big Business of Baseball with Joseph Guzman

    Big Business of Baseball w/ Joseph Guzman: The High-Stakes World of MLB Agents Big Business of Baseball w/ Joseph Guzman takes center stage in this episode of The SLIDE Podcast, where we explore the challenges and rewards of being an MLB Players Association-certified agent. Joseph Guzman shares his journey from a college athlete to representing top major league and minor league players, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the fast-paced world of baseball representation. Breaking into Baseball Business, Representation and Management Joseph Guzman’s transition into the business of baseball came after a health scare in college ended his playing career. Determined to stay connected to the game, he turned his focus toward player representation and contract negotiation. Today, he represents over 20 players across professional leagues, guiding them through the intricacies of the MLB draft, contracts, and career planning. “Nothing is impossible in baseball. If you have the work ethic and mental toughness, you can make it to the top.” – Joseph Guzman The Big Business of Professional Baseball Being an MLB agent is more than negotiating contracts. Guzman explains how player career development, mental health support, and relationship-building with MLB executives are key parts of the job. Managing draft negotiations is a critical skill. Supporting players through career highs and lows ensures long-term success. Balancing relationships with MLB scouts, front offices, and team executives is essential for creating opportunities. Scouting and Talent Development in the Dominican Republic The Dominican Republic has become a powerhouse for baseball talent, with young athletes signing with major league organizations as early as 16. Guzman shares his firsthand experiences working with elite Dominican players and explains how scouting academies prepare them for the big leagues. Many players come from difficult backgrounds and see baseball as a way to change their family’s future. The stakes are high, and international scouting is a crucial part of baseball’s global business. College Baseball and the NIL Revolution The Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) era has redefined college athletics, allowing players to monetize their brands before turning pro. Guzman breaks down the financial and legal challenges associated with NIL deals and how they affect recruiting strategies for universities and MLB teams. The transfer portal and the growing popularity of JUCO baseball are shifting how players move through the ranks. College athletes now have more power than ever to shape their careers before entering professional baseball. What MLB Scouts and Agents Look for in Future Stars Character and mental toughness play just as big of a role as raw talent. Guzman emphasizes that MLB organizations look beyond batting averages and fastball velocities when scouting future stars. Work ethic and discipline set great players apart. Handling adversity and mental resilience are key to long-term success. Social media presence and personal branding impact draft stock and professional opportunities. Final Thoughts & Walk-Up Songs To close the show, Joseph answers our classic final question: Game 7 of the World Series. Bases loaded. Bottom of the ninth. Your last game ever. What’s your walk-up song? His answer? Eye of the Tiger by Survivor. A perfect choice for an agent who never backs down from a challenge! For another inspiring story, make sure to listen to 6’6” Lefty Phenom: UGA Baseball with Alton Davis II Follow The SLIDE Podcast! Please email us for any questions or feedback. Please help us grow!!! Email: TheSlidePodcastShow@gmail.com Make sure to leave us a review!!!! Leave us a 5-star review and a question, and we’ll answer on the show! Get a chance to host an episode as a guest. Website: www.theslidepodcastshow.com All Links: https://linktr.ee/theslidepodcastshow YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theslidepodcastshow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Th

  3. FEB 21

    Grand Slams & Big Tackles with Brayden Irvin

    Brayden Irvin’s Path to Athletic Success Grand Slams & Big Tackles w/ Brayden IrvinIn this episode of The SLIDE Podcast, hosts Aaron and Lila welcome Brayden Irvin, an 11-year-old multi-sport athlete from Tampa, Florida. Grand Slams & Big Tackles w/ Brayden Irvin explores his youth baseball and football journey, detailing the mindset and skills that set him apart. Brayden plays for TBT Little Phillies and FDB, showcasing his versatility as a shortstop, center fielder, pitcher, and linebacker. Check out our past episode with Alton Davis II to hear about another inspiring athlete’s journey in baseball! Mastering the Mental Side of Sports In Grand Slams & Big Tackles w/ Brayden Irvin, we discuss how young athletes handle high-pressure situations. Brayden shares how he remains composed when making crucial defensive plays or stepping into the batter’s box. His mental toughness is key to his success, allowing him to bounce back from challenges and focus on the next play. Unforgettable Grand Slams & Big Tackles One of the most exciting moments in Grand Slams & Big Tackles w/ Brayden Irvin is when he recalls his first grand slam at age nine. He describes the thrill of hearing the crowd erupt and how that moment fueled his love for the game. As a pitcher, Brayden also reveals his go-to curveball strategy and how he executes under pressure. Balancing Football & Baseball Training Brayden isn’t just a standout in baseball—he also dominates on the football field. He explains how his middle linebacker and running back skills translate to baseball, making him a more explosive and agile player. Throughout Grand Slams & Big Tackles w/ Brayden Irvin, he emphasizes the importance of cross-training and commitment to excelling in multiple sports. Beyond the Field: Giving Back & Staying Focused Brayden is more than just an athlete. He talks about his family, faith, and giving back to the community through church service. His dedication to being a role model for younger athletes makes Grand Slams & Big Tackles w/ Brayden Irvin an inspiring episode for parents, coaches, and players. Leave Us a Review & Get Involved! We love hearing from our listeners! Leave us a 5-star review and submit a question—we might answer it in a future episode! Plus, you could get the chance to be a guest co-host on an upcoming show. Help us grow and continue sharing amazing sports stories! Email: TheSlidePodcastShow@gmail.com Website: www.theslidepodcastshow.com All Links: https://linktr.ee/theslidepodcastshow YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theslidepodcastshow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheSlidePodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theslidepodcastshow/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theslidepodcastshow?lang=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/theslidepodcast X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/theslidepod

  4. FEB 14

    Gameface Gracie - Pitching, Perseverance, and Passion

    Rising Star in Softball: Meet Gameface Gracie Gameface Gracie is a rising star in youth softball. Her journey is one of determination, skill, and an unbreakable mindset. In this episode, we dive deep into the journey of Gameface Gracie, exploring her dedication, skill, and passion for the game. At just nine years old, she’s proving that determination, skill, and a strong mindset can lead to success. In this episode of The SLIDE Podcast, hosts Coach Aaron and Annabel “AB” Crowe sit down with the unstoppable Gracie to discuss her journey, the obstacles she’s overcome, and her bright future ahead. From Setbacks to Success Gracie was born with a significant visual challenge—severe lazy eye in both eyes, which required surgery at a young age. Rather than letting this hold her back, she pushed forward, picking up a softball and stepping onto the pitcher’s mound. Despite initially struggling to focus, she learned to lock in on her target and became an elite pitcher with incredible accuracy. Her journey is a testament to resilience and dedication. Hard Work Pays Off Her commitment to training is relentless. Gameface Gracie consistently pushes herself to new heights, proving that talent combined with effort leads to success. She consistently pushes herself to new heights, proving that talent and relentless training can yield incredible results. She rises at 5 or 6 AM each morning, determined to improve. Whether practicing with her dad or refining her skills, her commitment to the game never wavers. She trains relentlessly, refining her fastball and changeup—the only two pitches she currently throws, but ones that have been key to her success. Her ability to change speeds and stay composed on the mound makes her a force to be reckoned with. Challenges on the Field Despite early challenges, Gameface Gracie refused to be discouraged. She switched teams and found a new home with Explosion Softball, where she thrives. A former coach doubted her abilities and limited her opportunities due to her eye condition. Instead of giving up, Gracie switched teams and found a home with Explosion Softball, where she thrives and continues to develop her game. Her story is a reminder that perseverance in the face of adversity leads to growth and opportunity. A Multi-Sport Athlete While softball is her passion, Gracie doesn’t stop there. She also plays hockey—on an all-boys team—where she holds her own and earns the respect of her teammates. Her ability to balance multiple sports and excel in each one speaks volumes about her athleticism and determination. More Than Just a Player Gameface Gracie’s teammates describe her as a leader, and it’s easy to see why. Her passion and drive on the field set her apart, making her a standout player and an inspiration to others. She brings energy, encouragement, and confidence to the field, always ready to push herself and those around her. Whether she’s on the mound, in the batter’s box, or skating on the ice, she approaches every challenge with enthusiasm. Looking Ahead Looking ahead, Gameface Gracie’s future in softball is full of promise. She continues to make waves in the sport, showing that perseverance paves the way to greatness. She dreams of winning championships and continues to develop her skills. Whether dancing on the mound to walk-up songs or firing strikes past batters, she embodies the spirit of hard work and fun. Follow Gracie’s Journey This episode is packed with insights into Gracie’s training routines, her mental approach to the game, and her love for competition. Please tune in to hear her incredible story and be inspired by her unstoppable drive. Email: TheSlidePodcastShow@gmail.com Website: www.theslidepodcastshow.com All Links: https://linktr.ee/theslidepodcastshow YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theslidepodcastshow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheSlidePodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theslidepodcastshow/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theslidepodcastshow?

  5. FEB 7

    6’6” Lefty Phenom: UGA Baseball with Alton Davis II

    6’6” Lefty Phenom: UGA Baseball with Alton Davis II 6’6” Lefty Phenom: UGA Baseball with Alton Davis II highlights the inspiring journey of Alton Davis II, a left-handed pitching star. This episode of The SLIDE Podcast explores his rise in baseball, the challenges he overcame, and his move to the University of Georgia. Alton’s story is a mix of determination, growth, and passion for the game. From Small-Town Roots to SEC Success Alton shares how his journey began in Heery Town, Alabama. Though he initially played as an outfielder, his coaches saw pitching potential during his sophomore year. This chance led him to develop into one of the SEC’s top left-handed pitchers. By staying focused, he turned small opportunities into big milestones. Overcoming Challenges and Finding Balance Transitioning to college baseball in the SEC wasn’t easy. Alton talks about the mental demands of the game and the importance of finding balance. For instance, he reflects on dealing with coaching changes and choosing UGA to maintain his happiness. His focus on mental health is a key takeaway for athletes at every level. Mastering the Craft of Pitching Alton explains how preparation and skill development have helped him excel. His six-pitch repertoire, especially his signature slider, sets him apart. Moreover, he emphasizes the importance of routines and practice. For young players, his advice is clear: stay disciplined and trust the process. Giving Back to the Community Off the field, Alton is committed to giving back. He describes initiatives like fundraising for breast cancer awareness and helping younger players. These efforts show his dedication to making a difference beyond baseball. 6’6” Lefty Phenom: UGA Baseball with Alton Davis II is an episode filled with insights, inspiration, and advice. Whether you’re a fan, coach, or player, Alton’s story will leave you motivated to chase your goals. Please email us for any questions or feedback. Please help us grow!!! TheSlidePodcastShow@gmail.com Make sure to leave us a review!!!! Website: www.theslidepodcastshow.com All Links: https://linktr.ee/theslidepodcastshow Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@theslidepodcastshow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheSlidePodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theslidepodcastshow/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theslidepodcastshow?lang=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/theslidepodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theslidepodcastshow X: https://twitter.com/theslidepod

  6. 12/20/2024

    Life Lessons Through Baseball w/ CoachBallGame

    Life Lessons Through Baseball: Insights from Coach Ballgame A Journey of Life Lessons Through Baseball Starting in North Carolina, Coach Ballgame’s journey of life lessons through baseball began with backyard games and watching Chicago Cubs games after school. His path led him from Brown University to Los Angeles, where he discovered his calling in youth coaching. The transition from player to mentor wasn’t immediate, but his passion for the game and desire to make a difference guided his path. Transformative Teaching Philosophy Initially struggling as a win-at-all-costs coach, a pivotal moment transformed his understanding of life lessons through baseball when mentors showed him the importance of connecting with players on a human level. His approach shifted from focusing solely on baseball skills to nurturing character development. A particularly moving experience with a challenging player taught him the power of unconditional love and patience in coaching, fundamentally changing his perspective on youth sports education. Innovative Training Methods Coach Ballgame revolutionized youth coaching by incorporating nicknames, music, and creative drills to engage young players. Through these life lessons through baseball, his innovative methods, including using drums and personalized nicknames, create an environment where learning and fun coexist. His unique approach includes the popular “dancing on the toilet” fielding drill and using storytelling techniques to make fundamental skills more engaging. These methods have proven successful even with older players who might typically resist such playful approaches. Impact Beyond the Diamond The episode demonstrates how life lessons through baseball shape athletes and future adults. His message to parents emphasizes creating two-way dialogues with their children and embracing failure as a learning opportunity. Having coached over 150,000 kids, with only one reaching the major leagues, Coach Ballgame stresses that success isn’t measured in professional contracts but in developing good people. He encourages parents to ask their children what kind of support they need rather than imposing their expectations. His philosophy extends to teaching resilience through failure, preparing young players for life’s challenges beyond the baseball field. Connect With Us Website: www.theslidepodcastshow.com All Links: https://linktr.ee/theslidepodcastshow Email: TheSlidePodcastShow@gmail.com Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@theslidepodcastshow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheSlidePodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theslidepodcastshow/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theslidepodcastshow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/theslidepodcast X: https://twitter.com/theslidepod

  7. 12/13/2024

    The Baseball Mom Mafia

    The Baseball Mom Mafia: Tales from the Travel Ball Trenches In this engaging episode of The S.L.I.D.E. Podcast, we dive into the world of travel baseball with a lively discussion featuring The Baseball Mom Mafia. Joined by special guests Vincent “The Dancing Umpire” and Mark Paul, the episode offers a mix of humor, heartfelt stories, and valuable insights into the unique challenges and rewards of being a baseball mom in youth sports. Dynamic Guests and Unique Perspectives Vincent, known for his entertaining moves as much as his umpiring, brought a fresh perspective to the stories shared by The Baseball Mom Mafia. His humor and anecdotes underscored the importance of fair play and sportsmanship in travel ball. Meanwhile, Mark Paul added authenticity and relatability by sharing his firsthand experiences as a parent navigating the demanding world of youth baseball. Unforgettable Moments and Emotional Highs The conversation captured the emotional rollercoaster The Baseball Mom Mafia faced at tournaments. Their stories revealed the resilience required to support young athletes, from contentious calls on the field to exhilarating wins. Vincent’s tale of a particularly heated game illustrated the delicate balance of encouraging sportsmanship while managing intense emotions during competition. Insights on Parenting and Team Dynamics Mark Paul’s reflections offered a deeper look into the dynamics between parents, players, and coaches. The Baseball Mom Mafia emphasized the importance of player development, illustrating how focusing on growth over winning can lead to long-term success. This dialogue resonated with parents striving to support their children in competitive sports. Humor, Camaraderie, and Community Building Vincent’s lively banter with The Baseball Mom Mafia brought a sense of fun to the discussion, showcasing the power of humor in navigating the trials of travel ball. The warmth and camaraderie shared among the guests highlighted how youth sports can foster meaningful connections and lasting memories. Please email us for any questions or feedback. Please help us grow!!! TheSlidePodcastShow@gmail.com Make sure to leave us a review!!!! Website: www.theslidepodcastshow.com All Links: https://linktr.ee/theslidepodcastshow Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@theslidepodcastshow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheSlidePodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theslidepodcastshow/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theslidepodcastshow?lang=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/theslidepodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theslidepodcastshow X: https://twitter.com/theslidepod

  8. 12/06/2024

    College-Bound and Unstoppable

    College-Bound and Unstoppable: Stories of Resilience In this episode of The S.L.I.D.E. Podcast, Aaron and Jenn welcome three extraordinary guests: Juliana, Casey, and Melody. These dedicated softball players share their unique journeys, demonstrating what it truly means to be college-bound and unstoppable. From overcoming injuries to embracing leadership roles, their stories are both inspiring and empowering. Perseverance in the Face of Adversity Casey’s path to collegiate softball showcases remarkable determination. After tearing her ACL, she refused to let the injury define her future. Instead, she focused on rehabilitation, working with a CrossFit coach to rebuild her strength. As a result, she secured a spot on the University of New Haven’s softball team. Her journey is a powerful reminder that setbacks can be stepping stones to success. Raising Awareness About Athlete Safety Meanwhile, Jenn shifts the conversation toward athlete well-being by discussing the risks of playing on turf fields. These surfaces, often associated with a higher rate of ACL injuries, spark a critical debate about player safety. Additionally, Melody shares her own battles with injuries, emphasizing the importance of a strong support system. By leaning on family and mentors, she found the strength to navigate challenging times and keep moving forward. Mentorship as a Catalyst for Growth Furthermore, Coach Jen’s mentorship approach leaves a lasting impact on the players. By teaching life skills such as punctuality, communication, and teamwork, she prepares them for success both on and off the field. Not only does Casey look forward to taking on a leadership role as team captain, but she also reflects on how these lessons will help her foster team camaraderie in college. Sentimental Tokens and New Beginnings As they prepare for their next chapter, the players share the sentimental items they’ll bring to college, such as stuffed animals and family flags. These keepsakes symbolize their roots and provide comfort during times of change. In doing so, they remind us of the balance between cherishing the past and embracing the future, which is essential to being college-bound and unstoppable. Tune in for inspiring stories of resilience, leadership, and the drive to succeed in collegiate softball. Please email us for any questions or feedback. Please help us grow!!! TheSlidePodcastShow@gmail.com Make sure to leave us a review!!!! Website: www.theslidepodcastshow.com All Links: https://linktr.ee/theslidepodcastshow Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@theslidepodcastshow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheSlidePodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theslidepodcastshow/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theslidepodcastshow?lang=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/theslidepodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theslidepodcastshow X: https://twitter.com/theslidepod

4.5
out of 5
17 Ratings

About

The SLIDE Podcast is the premier youth baseball and softball show delivering expert insights, training tips, and inspiring stories from America's favorite pastime. Our international team of 23 field reporters and hosts brings you weekly episodes featuring exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and baseball influencers. From MLB-bound prospects to grassroots development, we cover every aspect of youth baseball and softball. Our comprehensive content includes technique breakdowns, coaching strategies, and player development stories that help athletes, parents, and coaches maximize their potential in the game. Join our growing community of baseball and softball enthusiasts every Friday as we showcase the future stars of the game, share expert coaching advice, and celebrate the spirit of youth sports. #YouthBaseball #BaseballCoaching #YouthSports #MLBProspects #SoftballTraining

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