Dropping Diamonds with AJ Andrews

Amanda Gianelloni of the WPBL’s San Francisco Firebells joins the pod to discuss her journey from childhood adversity to making history as the first player to officially sign with the Women’s Professional Baseball League (WPBL), and her role in helping lead the Firebells through a historic inaugural season. She opens up about building a championship culture, overcoming limitations, and championing the future of women’s sports while inspiring the next generation of female athletes to pursue greatness, challenge expectations, and create their own paths.

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Dropping Diamonds with AJ Andrews is in partnership with the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL).

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WPBL Champion Brittany Apgar shares her journey of overcoming adversity, embracing her individuality, and making history with the LA Queens in the inaugural season of the WPBL. From turning challenges into superpowers to discovering the power of kindness, teamwork, and failure, Brittany reminds us that our purpose is contagious; our differences make us extraordinary, and the only person we’re meant to be is ourselves.

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Dropping Diamonds with AJ Andrews is in partnership with the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL).

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AJ talks with Alexis “Lexi” Pence about meeting her husband, former MLB player Hunter Pence, finding an identity beyond baseball, and building community for women in the game. Lexi opens up about how baseball shaped her worldview and the importance of embracing change and creating a life where you are constantly learning and having fun. 

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Dropping Diamonds with AJ Andrews is in partnership with the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL).

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Valerie Perez shares her journey from firefighter to professional baseball player and coach, reflecting on resilience, women’s sports, chasing unexpected dreams, and the impact of showing up, taking chances, and making your moment count.

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Dropping Diamonds with AJ Andrews is in partnership with the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL).

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Sydney Sherrill takes us from her national championship days at Florida State to playing professionally for the OKC Spark, sharing the moments that tested her and reshaped her mindset. She also reveals what it really takes to thrive at the highest level while staying grounded in who you are.

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Dropping Diamonds with AJ Andrews is in partnership with the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL).

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sami Williams, 2026 AUSL Hitter of the Year, shares the mindset, preparation, resilience, and confidence that fueled her breakout season, from overcoming imposter syndrome and setbacks to embracing pressure, trusting her swing, and simply remembering to have fun.

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Dropping Diamonds with AJ Andrews is in partnership with the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL).

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Coach Cindy Ball Malone shares the DNA behind championship teams at UCF and the Utah Talons, unforgettable moments with her athletes and fans, and the joy of helping players believe in themselves and compete at the highest level.

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Dropping Diamonds with AJ Andrews is in partnership with the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL).

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From reserve player to back-to-back champion and 2026 AUSL Championship Series MVP, Jadelyn Allchin shares how grit, resilience, and her “So what? Now what?” mindset fueled her journey to the top.

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Dropping Diamonds with AJ Andrews is in partnership with the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL).

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Two-Time Rawlings Gold Glove Winner and Portland Cascade pro, Kendra Falby talks speed, defense, the power of being yourself, the legendary Cascade Potion, and bringing nonstop “Kenergy” to the field.

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Dropping Diamonds with AJ Andrews is in partnership with the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL).

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The Utah Talons cement their dynasty with a second straight AUSL championship! AJ breaks down the title-winning performances, celebrates the league's remarkable growth, and looks ahead to an exciting All-Star Cup and the future of professional softball.

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Dropping Diamonds with AJ Andrews is in partnership with the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL).

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.