Around the Dirt Podcast

Exclusive Episode: Team Hustle with Steve Ladrigue

In this exclusive episode of our podcast, Erin sits down with Steve Ladrigue, the visionary founder of Team Hustle, a renowned organization established in 2013. Steve’s journey is nothing short of inspiring as he shares his background and the motivations that led him to create an organization focused on helping at-risk youth and single-family homes through sports.
 
Key Topics Discussed: 
Steve’s Background: Discover how Steve Ladrigue’s upbringing and experiences shaped his passion for sports and community service. Learn about his journey and how he utilized sports as a tool for change.
Founding Team Hustle: Steve discusses the early days of Team Hustle, a venture initially unrelated to softball but deeply rooted in empowering kids through various sports. His mission was to keep kids busy and teach them valuable life lessons, fostering a sense of belonging and personal growth.
From High School Coach to Club Team Leader: As a high school softball coach, Steve encountered talented players who couldn’t afford team dues. His desire to support these athletes led to the formation of a club team with affordable dues. What started as a single 10U team has now grown to an impressive 15 teams across the western states, including Colorado, California, Arizona, and New Mexico.
The Bigger Picture: Despite the success of his club teams, Steve’s vision extends beyond the field. He is a humble leader committed to helping everyone, including players outside his organization. Steve believes his mission is greater than softball; it’s about making a lasting impact on the lives of young people in the community.
 
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Don’t forget to subscribe to our Podcast on your favorite podcast streaming platform to hear this heartwarming conversation as Erin and Steve Ladrigue discuss the power of sports and the importance of community involvement in shaping the lives of young athletes. Don’t miss this episode filled with inspiring stories and valuable insights. 
 
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Episode 10: 10 Tips for Navigating Tryouts

In this episode, we dive into the crucial aspects of preparing for fastpitch softball tryouts. Drawing from our latest blog post, Mastering Fastpitch Tryouts: 10 Essential for Success, we provide comprehensive advice for athletes and parents to navigate this exciting and challenging time. Whether you're a seasoned player or stepping onto the field for the first time, these tips will help you approach tryouts with confidence and a positive mindset.
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Key Topics Discussed:
Get ready for an insightful discussion as we cover essential tips to ace your fastpitch softball tryouts. We’ll talk about understanding the tryout process, preparing mentally and physically, and setting realistic expectations. We also discuss handling both rejection and success, the role of parents, evaluating team dynamics, setting long-term goals, and so much more! Don’t miss out on these valuable insights that can make a significant difference in your tryout experience!
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Don’t forget to subscribe to our Podcast on your favorite podcast streaming platform to tune in to hear the full conversation. We’d love to hear from you! Share your tryout experiences and questions with us on our social media channels or by reaching out directly through our website.
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Episode 9: Are YOU Coachable?

Talk to any coach around the world, in any sport…
They’ve seen it, they’ve dealt with it, and they’ve most certainly wondered how to fix it. The uncoachable player – whether they are 10 or 22 – is a doozey. And even though every coach has pondered heavily on how they can help “THAT KID,” the truth of the matter is this:
Being coachable isn’t up to the coach – it’s up to YOU, the player.
Quite simply, being coachable means that you’ve accepted there’s something you haven’t learned yet. Our learning experience is never over. Even COACHES have to be coachable. No matter how talented we are, how far we’ve come, we ALL have room for growth.
Being coachable DOES NOT equal weakness.
It’s being vulnerable enough to OWN that you aren’t perfect… and ALLOWING someone out there who is more of an expert to help guide you on your path. The Alabama softball coach, Pat Murphy, said it perfectly:
Coachable kids make employable adults.
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What kind of athlete are you?

Episode 8: Hometown Hero with UCLA's Kaitlyn Terry

In this episode, we’re thrilled to have Kaitlyn Terry, the freshman pitcher who has taken the Pac-12 by storm, join us. With accolades from her debut season that could fill an entire podcast episode, we’re focusing on the standout moments and insights from her incredible journey. Hosted by Erin White, here’s what you can expect from this exciting conversation:
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Early Beginnings:
Kaitlyn kicks off by sharing her journey in softball, starting from a young age of 4 as a pitcher and catcher.
Fascinating insight: Kaitlyn’s parents made her learn to pitch left-handed for a strategic edge, even though she is naturally right-handed!
Training and Recruitment:
Kaitlyn dives into her rigorous training schedule that shaped her into an elite athlete and top recruit.
She discusses which schools showed interest in her and reveals why she ultimately chose UCLA.
Stellar Freshman Year at UCLA:
A deep dive into her standout freshman season, including her development of the drop ball—her most effective pitch of the year.
Kaitlyn highlights the significance of the pitcher-catcher relationship, emphasizing how trust and chemistry on and off the field contribute to success.
Balancing Life at UCLA:
Get an insider’s look at her daily life at UCLA, contrasting her fall schedule and preseason practices with the spring softball season.
Kaitlyn also shares details about her summer workout routine and preparations for an even more successful 2025 season with the UCLA Bruins.
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To keep up with Kaitlyn’s progress and support the UCLA Bruins as she continues to make waves in collegiate softball make sure to follow her on Instagram.
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Exclusive Episode: Arizona Rising with Chuck Kobasew

In this episode, Erin White sits down with Coach Chuck Kobasew to discuss his inspiring journey in the softball world, from his beginnings with Scottsdale Miss to his current role in founding Arizona Rising alongside two partners. Chuck Kobasew, a pivotal figure in Arizona fastpitch softball, shares his early involvement in the softball community with Scottsdale Miss, setting the stage for a deep dive into his successful coaching career and vision for the future.
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Key Topics Discussed:
Chuck delves into the formation of Arizona Rising, explaining how it aims to revolutionize the club scene in Arizona fastpitch. This new organization is focused on creating a significant impact and shaking up the traditional club environment, offering a fresh approach to developing athletes. A significant part of the conversation centers on the importance of developing athletes through both fundamentals and mental strength. Chuck explains how Arizona Rising plans to prepare athletes not just for college, but for life after softball. The organization is dedicated to producing quality, recruitable athletes for the future, emphasizing a comprehensive approach to athlete development that goes beyond just physical skills.
Developing Athletes:
The importance of developing athletes through fundamentals and mental strength.
How Arizona Rising plans to prepare athletes not just for college, but for life after softball.
Upcoming Tryouts:
Details on the upcoming tryouts for Arizona Rising, set to take place after the PGF Nationals.
What to expect during tryouts and what the organization is looking for in potential athletes.
For more information about Arizona Rising upcoming workouts and tryout details, visit their Facebook and Instagram.
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Don’t forget to subscribe to our Podcast on your favorite podcast streaming platform to get a look at Chuck Kobasew's insights and plans for Arizona Rising, and discover how this new organization is set to shake up the club scene in Arizona fastpitch!
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Exclusive Episode: Storm with Corey Mathis

Join Erin White in an insightful conversation with Corey Mathis, the leader of the renowned Storm Organization. This episode delves into the rich history of Storm, a staple in Arizona Fastpitch for over three decades, producing top-tier athletes seen on the biggest stages of softball, including the Women's College World Series.
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Key Topics Discussed:
Corey begins by discussing the origins of Storm Organization, which was founded in 1990 by Rick and Erica Beach. For over 30 years, Storm has been a cornerstone of Arizona Fastpitch, known for producing athletes who compete at the highest levels. Corey highlights Storm's impressive track record of sending over 100 girls to college to play softball in just the past three years. Reflecting on his 29-year coaching career, Corey shares insights into his personal evolution as a coach. He discusses how his coaching philosophy and techniques have changed over the years, influenced by his experiences and the needs of his athletes.
Mission and Strategies:
Storm's mission to foster excellence and college readiness among its athletes.
Strategies to ensure consistency and resources across all age groups, from 10U to 18U.
Future Vision:
Introduction of new coaches for the upcoming season and growth expectations.
Emphasis on mental preparation for athletes to compete at the next level.
For more information regarding Storm and what’s coming next, visit their website, or follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
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Don’t forget to subscribe to our Podcast on your favorite streaming platform to gain a deeper understanding of what makes the Storm Organization a powerhouse in the world of fastpitch softball!
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Episode 7 : Optimizing Athletic Performance Through Nutrition with Krista Moreland Part 2

PART 2 SHOWNOTES:
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Welcome to the second part of our insightful discussion with Erin White and Krista Moreland. In this episode, Krista dives deep into the essentials of nutrition, focusing on the critical roles that proteins, fats, and carbohydrates play in our bodies. She emphasizes the significance of maintaining hydration and overall health leading up to performance days and highlights what foods to avoid on game days for optimal performance.
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Key Topics Discussed:
Importance of Macronutrients: Krista explains the vital functions of proteins, fats, and carbs in fueling the body, supporting recovery, and enhancing performance.
Hydration and Health: Learn why staying hydrated and healthy is a continuous process, not just a game day strategy.
Pre-Game Nutrition: Discover meal and snack combinations that athletes can consume before a game or workout to maximize their performance.
Post-Game Recovery: Krista provides practical examples of foods that aid in recovery after intense physical activity.
Busy Parents' Guide: Tips for parents on what healthy foods to pack in a cooler to avoid unhealthy concession stand options.
Game Day Tips: Understand what types of foods to consume on game day to ensure energy and comfort, focusing on protein intake and easily digestible carbs.
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Don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast on Apple Podcast, or your favorite podcast streaming platform to get valuable insights and practical advice from Krista Moreland, and learn how to optimize nutrition for peak athletic performance.
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Connect With Krista Moreland:
Follow her on InstagramFollow her on FacebookBusy Mom Simple Nutrition Facebook GroupFree Elite Athlete Hydration Freebie
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Episode 6 : Optimizing Athletic Performance Through Nutrition with Krista Moreland Part 1

Part 1 Show Notes:
In the first part of this two part episode, Erin White sits down with Krista Moreland, a remarkable individual with a rich background and invaluable insights into the world of nutrition and performance. Krista shares her journey from being a two-sport college athlete to becoming a dedicated mother who faced the challenges of weight gain during pregnancies. Through her story, she reveals the transformative power of nutrition and provides practical tips for optimizing performance for both parents and their athletic children.
Key Topics Discussed:
Hydration: The critical role of hydration in performance, emphasizing that water alone is not enough. Krista explains the necessity of incorporating certain micronutrients with water for elite performance.
Food: The importance of protein intake in every meal and snack. Krista provides actionable tips to make this feasible for both parents and athletes.
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Don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast on Apple Podcast, or your favorite podcast streaming platform to learn in detail how you can optimize your athlete’s performance through proper nutrition.
As Krista wisely puts it, “more is caught than taught.” For more pearls of wisdom make sure to follow Krista on Instagram and Facebook.
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Episode 5: 3 Tips for Parents to Help Build Champions

In this episode, Erin White sits down with BJ Johnson to delve into what it takes for young athletes to perform at the top level and how parents can support their journey. This discussion is a treasure trove of practical advice for parents looking to cultivate champions, emphasizing not just athletic prowess but holistic development.
Key Topics Discussed:
The Role of Coachability• Importance of both athletes and parents being open to learning and adapting• Encouraging a mindset of continuous improvement
Three Must-Haves for Parents• Skill Development - ensuring that athletes ar continuously building their physical skills to develop their craft• Mental Toughness - teaching athletes to develop the resilience needed to overcome adversity and stay focused on their goals• Home Routine - while lessons with trainers are crucial for skill development, the real transformation happens with dedicated and consistent practice at home
Perspective on Sports• Reinforcing the idea that softball (or any sport) is a game that athletes play, not their entire identity• The ultimate goal is to develop well-rounded individuals who can face real-world challenges with resilience, goal-setting abilities, and the fortitude to overcome any obstacles
Parents - if you take anything from this episode, let it be to support your athlete’s journey, not just in their sport but in their overall personal growth.
 
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Episode 4: Rookies to Veterans: Navigating the Athlete’s Journey

In this episode, Erin White welcomes Molly Valdivia, the Chief Marketing Officer of Around the Dirt, to discuss the comprehensive journey of an athlete from beginner to expert. Both Erin and Molly share their personal experiences growing up playing softball in Arizona, highlighting the challenges and milestones they faced from recreational leagues to collegiate play and beyond. They explore how the Around the Dirt platform is designed to support athletes at every stage of their journey.
Key Topics Discussed:
The Athlete’s Journey: From Beginner to Expert
Starting Out in Recreational Leagues:
Molly and Erin share their initial experiences in recreational softball.
The importance of early-stage support and resources for young athletes.
Surviving the Club Scene:
Navigating the competitive environment of club softball.
Challenges faced by athletes and parents during this phase.
How Around the Dirt provides essential tools and community support.
Navigating the Collegiate Experience:
Transitioning from club softball to collegiate sports.
Balancing academics and athletics.
Resources and advice for aspiring collegiate athletes.
Transitioning to Slow Pitch Softball:
The shift from competitive play to recreational adult leagues.
Staying active and involved in the sport post-college.
Addressing Pain Points Throughout the Journey
Common challenges and pain points faced by athletes and their families.
How Around the Dirt offers solutions and support for each stage.
How Around the Dirt Supports Athletes at Every Step
Features and tools designed to help athletes progress from beginners to experts.
Community aspects and networking opportunities available on the platform.
Personalized resources and advice tailored to different stages of an athlete’s journey.
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Don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast on Apple Podcast, or your favorite podcast streaming platform to learn more about how Around the Dirt is committed to providing comprehensive support and resources for athletes at every stage.
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