The SLIDE Podcast - National Youth Baseball & Softball Podcast

Softball Talk: Memories, Mentors, and Making It Big brings together Coach Aaron, Gameface Gracie, and Rachel Garcia for an inspiring conversation about the past, present, and future of the sport. This episode differs from the usual guest format, focusing instead on authentic stories, lessons, and experiences that demonstrate why softball continues to have a profound impact on so many athletes.

Rachel Garcia reflects on her early travel ball days and how her teammates became like sisters, while Gracie recalls the influence of mentors such as Tony Rico. Both emphasize the importance of community, showing that softball is more than a game—it is a family. As Rachel shares, “I just want to be known for being nice and fun to be around, no matter the medals or rings.”

The conversation highlights the sacrifices young athletes face today, including long tournament days and early commitments. Rachel explains how breaks during her youth helped her avoid burnout, and Gracie talks about using agility training as her “playground” to build strength. Together, they stress that development must include rest, faith, and gratitude for family support.

The crew also discusses NIL, the transfer portal, and the evolving opportunities for women in softball. Gracie dreams of competing in college and beyond, while Rachel outlines the challenges still facing professional athletes. Their insights connect generations of players and remind listeners that passion and perseverance can shape the game’s future.

Faith plays a central role in Gracie’s journey, with her new team embracing prayer circles and a coach who leads with belief. She hopes to inspire other athletes, especially those facing challenges like her eye condition, to push through doubt. The episode closes with reflections on handling pressure, confidence, and what it means to be remembered beyond trophies.

For more on softball’s growth and opportunities, check out MLB’s Home Run Derby X for global competition highlights. You can also revisit The SLIDE Podcast’s Softball Special episode for more inspiring stories from young players.

Please email us with 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: [email protected]Website: www.theslidepodcastshow.comAll Links: https://linktr.ee/theslidepodcastshowYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theslidepodcastshowFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheSlidePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/theslidepodcastshow/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theslidepodcastshow?lang=enLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/theslidepodcastX: https://twitter.com/theslidepod

Girls Who Play Hardball: Building Baseball’s Future takes center stage in this inspiring all-girls episode of The SLIDE Podcast. Host Lilah “Brickwall” Br4tcher and co-host Ashlynn Jolicouer welcome standout ballplayers Youki Aoshima and Rio Alcantar. Together, they share what it truly means to play baseball as young women chasing big dreams.

The conversation focuses on the excitement surrounding the Women’s Professional Baseball League (WPBL), a groundbreaking step that opens doors for female athletes. Rio recalls, “Finally, women are gonna get a chance to play… in a higher level and get paid to do it — that’s like icing on top of the cake.” Their stories reveal both the struggles and motivation that come with being girls who choose hardball over the traditional softball route.

Youki and Rio reflect on their journeys through Baseball For All tournaments. They found not only fierce competition but also lifelong friendships. Both describe how different mixed-gender tournaments feel compared to all-girls events. Additionally, they explain how inclusive atmospheres enable them to thrive. Lilah and Ashlynn add their own experiences, making this episode a roundtable of athletes who understand the grind and the joy of playing ball together.

The girls swap stories about rivalry games between the Bay Sox and the Waves, hilarious hecklers, and Banana Ball antics. They even imagine their own professional team names, mascots, and dream cities. The discussion balances laughter with serious talk about confidence, pressure, and the importance of creating opportunities that match their passion for the sport.

The episode closes with advice to the next generation. Their message is simple: start young, work hard, and keep the fun alive. Youki explains how starting at six gave her a foundation to handle challenges later. Meanwhile, Rio stresses that making friends is just as important as building skills. With the WPBL on the horizon and organizations like Baseball For All leading the charge, the dream of girls playing baseball at every level is closer than ever.

For more stories on youth athletes paving their way, check out our recent episode, All Women, All Baseball: The WPBL Journey Begins.

Please email us with 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.

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All Women, All Baseball: The WPBL Journey Begins spotlights catcher Denae Benites, a leader on the USA Baseball women’s team who is chasing history with the new Women’s Professional Baseball League (WPBL). Hosted by Lilah “Brickwall” Br4tcher and co-host Ashlynn Jolicouer, this all-women’s baseball episode dives deep into the barriers, breakthroughs, and bold dreams shaping the sport.

From her start playing Little League with the boys to making Team USA at just 17, Denae has always followed her love of baseball. She explains why she never gave in to pressure to play softball and shares a powerful reminder: “You wouldn’t tell Serena Williams to go play table tennis. So why tell us girls that we have to go play softball?”

The WPBL marks a groundbreaking step forward for women in baseball, with more than 500 athletes from ten countries showing up for its first tryouts. Denae walks listeners through the multi-day event, the international talent she faced, and the excitement of creating a path for future generations. Her passion proves that this league is not just about games—it’s about history, opportunity, and visibility.

For Ashlynn and Lilah, who are both youth players chasing their own dreams, this conversation was more than an interview. It was a chance to hear what it takes to make the leap from high-level amateur play to professional women’s baseball.

As a catcher, Denae stresses the importance of mobility, quickness, and athleticism. She shares her routines, training on hills with weighted vests, and why catchers can’t be underestimated. She also reveals her favorite baseball traditions—from pop times to her lucky Bruce Bolt sleeve.

Fans also get a glimpse into lighter moments, including cereal debates, dream stadiums, and walkout songs. For the record, Denae’s pro walkout choice would be “La Chona”, while her USA hype song is “La Mama De La Mama” by L-Alpha.

This episode is filled with motivation for young players chasing their own path. Denae reminds listeners to train hard, take care of their bodies, and stay focused on development both on and off the field. Most importantly, she emphasizes that having fun and believing in yourself will take you further than doubters ever could.

For more on the history being made, check out USA Baseball’s Women’s National Team. And don’t miss our recent SLIDE Podcast episode on Softball, Superpowers, and Big Banana Ball Dreams featuring Savanna, another young athlete blazing trails.

Please email us with 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.

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Faith, Power Hitting & Pro Softball Dreams is at the heart of this inspiring conversation with Coastal Carolina standout, Delaney Keith. Hosted by Coach Aaron alongside Gameface Gracie, this episode dives into Delaney’s journey from Idaho to becoming one of the most feared power hitters in D1 softball. Her story highlights faith, hard work, and the perseverance needed to chase pro softball dreams.

Delaney grew up surrounded by the game, with both parents coaching and instilling in her the love of softball. Her journey took her from Oregon to Idaho, and ultimately to Coastal Carolina, where she has developed into a powerful force at the plate. As the Gatorade Idaho Player of the Year, she batted nearly .600 with 13 home runs in her senior season, striking out only four times. That drive for excellence continues as she now shines in the teal and black.

When asked about handling struggles, Delaney shared, “You have to train mental toughness… as long as you have the right support system around you, it’s easier to get through the bad days.” Her approach to adversity emphasizes faith, patience, and the ability to invest in small daily habits that add up to big results. Her story is a reminder to young athletes that challenges are part of the journey, but resilience and preparation make the difference.

Delaney’s goals go far beyond college. She dreams of playing professionally and representing Team USA on the Olympic stage. With softball gaining momentum through leagues like the Athletes Unlimited Softball League and Olympic re-entry, the future is bright for dedicated athletes like her. Her leadership and relentless pursuit of growth make her a role model for the next generation of softball stars.

In this episode, Delaney encourages youth players to embrace new positions, love the grind, and focus on the fundamentals. Coastal Carolina’s rise in both baseball and softball reflects how smaller programs can make a big impact nationally. For more stories about rising stars, check out our episode on Softball, Superpowers, and Big Banana Ball Dreams.

Delaney’s walkout song is “Play Something Country” by Brooks and Dunn — a fitting anthem for a player who blends grit, confidence, and Southern flair into every at-bat.

Please email us with 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.

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Knuckleballs, Time Travel, and Banana Ball w/ Ole Knuckles takes listeners on a trip through baseball’s past, present, and future. Fisher Polydoroff, better known as Old Knuckles, joins Coach Aaron and co-host Dylan “Hollywood” Boyle to share how he blends history, entertainment, and passion for the game. From gripping the knuckleball to entertaining fans in Banana Land, Fisher reveals what makes him unique as both a player and performer.

“I don’t think there’s anybody on earth that is better fit for the role that I play in Bananaland,” Fisher shares, highlighting how his character connects baseball history with modern fan engagement.

Fisher opens up about his early years in sports, moving from soccer to baseball, and how his curiosity for the game’s history shaped his path. Growing up in Texas, he became known as a power hitter and utility player, but his creativity set him apart. His time with the Visitors, the Savannah Bananas’ developmental team, showed him that baseball could be more than stats—it could be entertainment. Fans embraced Old Knuckles, a character who blends vintage baseball style with showmanship, bringing something fresh to Banana Ball.

For those who want to dive deeper into Banana Ball’s evolution, check out the Savannah Bananas’ official site to see how this phenomenon continues to grow.

Knuckleballs, Time Travel, and Banana Ball is about more than a quirky pitch—it’s about keeping baseball’s traditions alive. Fisher explains how he learned the knuckleball from R.A. Dickey and perfected it into a signature skill. He also dives into baseball history, sharing stories of legends like Honus Wagner, Hoyt Wilhelm, and Phil Niekro. His passion for nostalgia shines through when he talks about vintage bats, old-school uniforms, and recreating classic styles of play.

To explore another perspective on baseball’s evolution, check out our episode Sandlot Swag with Big Stadium Dreams: Twinstripe Reporters on Deck, where young players share their love for the game’s roots.

Fisher emphasizes how Banana Ball allows players to connect directly with fans. Instead of focusing solely on performance, he celebrates the joy of interaction—signing autographs, playing music, and even performing magic. By doing so, he not only entertains crowds but also reminds kids why they fell in love with baseball in the first place. His advice to young athletes is simple: stay dedicated, enjoy the game, and separate yourself from outcomes.

This episode captures how Old Knuckles brings timeless baseball values into today’s world, creating a one-of-a-kind experience for fans and players alike.

Walkout Songs:

“Sh-Boom” by The Chords

“In the Mood” by Glenn Miller

Be sure to follow Fisher on social media at @FisherPolydoroff and @OldiesFish to see his music, baseball, and Banana Ball journey.

Please email us for any questions or feedback. Please help us grow!!!Email: [email protected]Please leave us a review!Website: www.theslidepodcastshow.comAll Links: https://linktr.ee/theslidepodcastshowYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theslidepodcastshowFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheSlidePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/theslidepodcastshow/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theslidepodcastshow?lang=enLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/theslidepodcastX: https://twitter.com/theslidepod

Power, Passion, and Pro Softball Grind tells the story of Linnah Rebolledo, a championship-winning professional softball player in Mexico’s Liga Mexicana de Softbol and a key member of the national team. Coach Aaron hosts alongside co-hosts Michaela Beachy and Lily Scott for a conversation filled with determination, energy, and championship memories.

Linnah’s career began in Riverside, California, where she played baseball before switching to softball. Her journey took her to Utah Valley University, where she became known for her versatility and power at the plate. “I’ve always liked to beat everyone. I’m very competitive,” she shares. That drive eventually led her to Mexico’s pro league and a title in its inaugural season.

Before Linnah’s story begins, Michaela talks about her recovery from ACL surgery. She explains the nerves before the operation, the pain of the first days, and the joy of small wins like completing the stationary bike. Her focus on progress, even in slow steps, shows how resilience can define an athlete’s path.

Linnah’s competitive fire started early. She was recruited from baseball into softball by a persistent coach, and her skills grew fast. At Utah Valley University, she mastered shortstop, third base, and outfield. Her professional debut brought an unforgettable championship moment — a bases-loaded bunt that turned into a triple and secured the win. That single play made history and proved her ability to deliver under pressure.

Softball in Mexico offers more than just competition. Fans pack men’s stadiums, mariachi music plays between pitches, and crowds often reach 20,000 people. The league has already grown from four to six teams, with more expansion ahead. This high-energy environment fuels players like Linnah and inspires the next generation, including Lily, to dream about pro careers.

This episode blends stories of recovery, historic wins, and the passion that drives elite athletes. It shows how dedication, opportunity, and love for the game create moments that last a lifetime.

Outbound Link: Learn more about Liga Mexicana de SoftbolInternal Link: Hear another inspiring story in Softball, Superpowers, and Big Banana Ball Dreams.

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.

YouTube Version available on 08-16-25 @ 10am EST

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Power, Precision & Pitching takes the mound this week as Coach Aaron and co-host Lily Scott welcome Jason Luli, founder of Powerhouse Mechanics. In this exciting and insightful episode, listeners delve into the art of softball pitching, exploring mechanics, mindset, youth development, and Olympic-level coaching. Jason shares his remarkable journey from a casual men’s league pitcher to leading a nationwide training organization that redefines how young athletes are taught.

Powerhouse Mechanics is unlike any other. As Jason explains, they don’t just teach pitching—they teach athletes how to feel their motion. “We always say you’ve got to build, not fix,” Jason emphasizes. That philosophy is the backbone of a program that serves kids across more than 30 locations with personalized, elite training.

Jason’s coaching approach is based on weight control, energy movement, and simplifying complex skills, such as the change-up. His in-depth exploration of “leap and drag” mechanics and how Powerhouse teaches the body to protect itself naturally. This episode provides listeners with a rare glimpse into next-level player development. He even addresses controversial rule changes and how understanding the body’s movement can help prevent injury.

Now serving as the pitching coach for the American Samoa National Team, Jason is headed to Italy for the WBSC Softball World Cup. His perspective on coaching globally while empowering youth athletes at home is a testament to his dedication and impact on the sport.

Of course, it wouldn’t be The SLIDE Podcast without some fun. Jason reveals his midnight snack of choice, Captain Crunch with half and half. He also picks his walkout song: the legendary “Hell’s Bells” by AC/DC. As Lily debates mask rules and sibling advice, the episode seamlessly blends technical insight with laughs, life lessons, and a heartwarming touch.

For more softball action, tune into Episode 27, Macon to the Mound: Destin Howard’s UGA Journey

Follow Jason and his team at Powerhouse Mechanics on Instagram!

Follow The SLIDE Podcast!Please email us with 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: [email protected]Website: www.theslidepodcastshow.comAll Links: https://linktr.ee/theslidepodcastshowYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theslidepodcastshowFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheSlidePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/theslidepodcastshow/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theslidepodcastshow?lang=enLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/theslidepodcastX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/theslidepod

In this standout episode of The SLIDE Podcast, we highlight “Macon to the Mound” as Georgia Bulldog pitcher Destin Howard steps up to share her journey from hometown hopeful to NCAA competitor. Hosted by Coach Aaron with co-hosts Rachel Garcia and Lily Scott, the episode offers an honest look into life as a D1 softball player, on and off the field.

From Macon to the Mound, Destin reveals how UGA wasn’t initially her top choice. That changed when Coach Tony Baldwin took over the program. After visiting campus and feeling divine confirmation, she knew it was the place for her: “Georgia could offer me nothing and I would still come here.” Her story of perseverance through a tough COVID-era recruiting cycle is relatable for young athletes everywhere.

Her high school stats back up the hype—500 strikeouts and a powerful presence on the mound that’s now anchoring UGA’s bullpen.

Destin has given up only two home runs in college thanks to a killer combo: a screwball that racks up strikes and a drop ball that gets swings and misses. “You have to just let it go,” she says of bouncing back from tough moments. While she used to chase strikeouts, college taught her to pitch for outs—however they come.

Off the field, Destin says NIL “truly changed my life.” A marketing major with a future in sales or training, she’s gained confidence by learning to pitch herself as a brand. She dreams of opening her own softball facility and helping the next generation thrive.

Destin shares tips for young players like Lily: don’t focus on what school you want—focus on working hard. She also addresses her team’s chemistry, her pitching routines, and how she’s preparing for her senior year. Her ultimate dream? To play pro softball and make a lasting impact on and off the mound.

“Even though you’re good, you’ve got to work harder.”

“The Largest” by BigXthaPlug

Check out our other UGA episode with Alton Davis II.

Learn more about UGA Softball and follow their upcoming season.

Please email us with 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.

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Sports, faith & fun with KJ McCarty takes center stage in this dynamic episode of The SLIDE Podcast. Host Coach Aaron is joined by co-host Big E (Easton Close) as they sit down with KJ, a standout multi-sport athlete from Alabama. Known for his mic’d-up Instagram reels and unshakable focus, KJ opens up about balancing football, baseball, and basketball—all while building a podcast with his dad focused on youth sports, faith, and family.

KJ’s journey in youth sports is anything but typical. From highlight-reel grand slams to calling plays as a quarterback, he shares how each sport teaches him something new. However, it’s his faith that keeps him grounded. “You’re playing the game not just to win,” he says, “but to have fun and live out your purpose.” That purpose shines through in his podcast, the KJ and Jay Podcast, where he and his father explore youth athletics through the lens of family and faith.

Throughout the episode, KJ emphasizes the value of being coachable and lifting others up. He discusses how challenging it can be to let go of perfectionism and how his dad helps remind him that failure is a natural part of growth. When asked what makes a good teammate, his answer is simple but powerful: supporting others even when you’re not at your best. From double-selly celebrations to battling through injury, KJ keeps it real and relatable.

Beyond the field and court, KJ talks about downtime in Alabama—fishing, visiting water parks, and recovering from a UCL strain. He also shares his big goals for the future, with hopes of playing football professionally while keeping baseball as a backup. His walkout song? “Unstoppable” by Sia—an anthem that fits the energy and message of this episode perfectly.

Check out KJ’s mic’d-up content and faith-driven sports podcast on Instagram by searching “KJ McCarty.” Learn more about the KJ and Jay Podcast: KJ and Jay Youth Sports Podcast on Apple Listen to a similar SLIDE Podcast episode: Faith, Focus, and Fire: Kingston’s Code

“You’re playing a sport not just for winning—but to have fun and live out your purpose.”

Please email us with 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.

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Big Baseball Moments and Bigger Ambitions shine bright in this episode as Coach Aaron and guest co-host Big E (Easton Close) welcome rising star Logan Johnson to The SLIDE Podcast. Logan delves into what it’s like stepping into pressure-packed situations with confidence, the mindset required to perform at a high level, and how big dreams drive his approach both on and off the field.

From high-stakes games to everyday grind, Logan reveals how staying focused and mentally prepared is key. His insight into preparing for intense moments gives young players a glimpse of what it takes to compete. When asked about the mental side of the game, Logan shared, “If I’m not confident in myself, no one else will be.” His commitment to self-belief and preparation is a blueprint for aspiring athletes everywhere.

Additionally, Logan emphasizes the importance of discipline and leadership in the dugout and beyond. Whether it’s maintaining routines or building chemistry with teammates, his attention to detail shows maturity well beyond his years. Logan discusses how he adapts to challenges, tunes out distractions, and keeps his focus locked on improvement.

Logan’s journey serves as inspiration for players who want more than wins—they want growth and development. His ambitions extend far beyond the diamond, and this episode proves that big baseball moments are only part of a much larger vision. For those chasing greatness, Logan’s story is a powerful reminder that belief, work ethic, and resilience can take you far.

For more baseball stories like Logan’s, check out our recent episode with Kingston Smith where we explore faith, focus, and fire on the field.

Please email us with 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.

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