
BASEBALL COACHES UNPLUGGED
Ken Carpenter
1 Creator
1 Creator
What if you could discover the secrets of the most successful coaches and athletes and become the best in the game. What separates the best coaches and players from the rest? Become the player coaches dream of having on their team. Step inside the dugout with the Baseball Coaches Unplugged, where every episode is a journey of triumph, resilience, and inspiration. Hosted by Ken Carpenter, a 27 year veteran high school baseball coach with a passion for unlocking the secrets of athletic greatness.
Picture this: you're behind the scenes with top athletes and coaches, taking in their stories of victory and defeat, and uncovering the invaluable life lessons hidden within. From heart-pounding game moments to the quiet struggles of training, each episode offers invaluable of wisdom that resonates with baseball coaches, players, devoted parents and fans alike.
Join us weekly as we explore the highs and lows of the sports world, dissecting success strategies and sharing practical takeaways that you can implement on and off the field. Whether you're seeking to refine your coaching techniques, elevate your game, or simply bask in the camaraderie of fellow sports enthusiasts, the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast is your playbook for success.
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Top 10 BASEBALL COACHES UNPLUGGED Episodes
Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best BASEBALL COACHES UNPLUGGED episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to BASEBALL COACHES UNPLUGGED for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite BASEBALL COACHES UNPLUGGED episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

The Baseball Player's Guide to Mental Clarity and Peak Performance through Breathwork - Nick Sweeney
BASEBALL COACHES UNPLUGGED
02/28/24 • 65 min
When life throws a curveball, how do we strike back? Nick Sweeney, a former Division I cross-country skier, joins us to recount his harrowing journey from Olympic aspirations to the depths of depression following a career-halting injury. His powerful narrative is not just about sports; it's a roadmap for anyone facing their own personal mountains. Through Nick's eyes, we learn the profound impact of breathwork—a seemingly simple practice with the strength to transform both body and mind.
Feel the rhythm of your own breath as we venture deeper into the mechanics of how intentional breathing can revolutionize performance. Nick unveils the secret weapon that helped him find mental clarity and peak athletic prowess, despite physical constraints. This episode is a treasure trove for enthusiasts aiming to sharpen their focus and harness their inner willpower. Whether you're stepping onto the field, preparing for a major presentation, or navigating daily stresses, the wisdom shared by Nick is your gateway to achieving a state of flow and unlocking your full potential.
Embarking on this episode, we also peel back the layers of what it truly means to trust the process in the competitive realm. From overcoming mental blocks with breathwork to the transformative influence of nature on our health, Nick's insights offer a guiding light. His accessible coaching philosophy, aimed at supporting athletes and entrepreneurs alike, provides a holistic approach for those looking to build resilience and make strides in their personal and professional lives. Join us as we converse with Nick Sweeney, whose story and strategies promise to inspire and bolster your resolve, no matter the challenge ahead.
- Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
- https://www.athlete1.net
- Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
- https://www.nettingpros.com

Baseball Success Built on Multi-Sport Athletes - DJ Butler
BASEBALL COACHES UNPLUGGED
03/13/24 • 35 min
Join us as coach DJ Butler of Barnesville High School (OH) sits across from me, Ken Carpenter, and we unravel the playbook to success that transcends mere wins and losses. We dissect the crucial foundations set by youth programs and the ethos of self-improvement that can turn any coach into an architect of victory. Our conversation ventures into the unique terrain of small-town sports, where each player's contribution is magnified, and the challenges of indoor practices are met with inventive strategies.
The echoes of cheers from the Ohio Valley are still fresh as we reminisce about the high school baseball team's heart-stopping journey through a regional tournament. Making their second appearance in the state final four. It's a tale of perseverance, community bonds, and the embrace of chance moments that can define a season. We recount the energy of a 12-inning game that danced with the twilight and reflect on the deep-rooted support systems from parents, administrators, and entire towns that fuel the passion and dedication of long-standing coaches like Coach Butler.
But what about when the cleats are off, and it's time to address the delicate waltz between coaches, parents, and athletes? Sharing from my own coaching playbook, I open up about the strategies that foster clear communication, respect, and understanding within the team's extended family. We pay homage to the value of alumni in linking the past with the present and future of the program. It's not just a game; it's a lineage of shared experiences and wisdom that Coach Butler and I are thrilled to pass on to you, our engaged listeners, in a discussion that's as enriching as it is enlightening.
- Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
- https://www.athlete1.net
- Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
- https://www.nettingpros.com

Baseball Blueprint For Effective Coaching
BASEBALL COACHES UNPLUGGED
09/04/24 • 50 min
Ever wondered what separates a good coach from an elite one? Learn from Ryan McGinnis, a two-time Wisconsin State Championship baseball coach and Athletic Director, as he shares the secrets behind his success and the indispensable role of high effort from everyone involved in the game. From players to umpires, Ryan discusses the expectation of giving one's best and the crucial qualities he seeks when hiring coaches. Our episode also takes you on a journey through Ryan's beloved Door County, Wisconsin, and reflects on how his formative years at a minor league ballpark influenced his approach to coaching and leadership.
Relive the nostalgia of a baseball-infused childhood and discover the essential virtues of humility and passion in sports. Drawing inspiration from his experiences as a bat boy, Ryan stresses the importance of staying humble and continually striving for improvement. He delves into the significance of understanding each player's unique background, balancing competitiveness with empathy, and fostering a supportive community. Ryan's reflections on receiving the ABCA ethics award emphasize the value of accountability and humility, drawing parallels to the humility exemplified by Jesus Christ.
Unlock the blueprint for effective coaching through meaningful communication and personal growth. Ryan offers insights into the attributes of elite coaches, focusing on active listening, continuous learning, and the courage required in leadership. From managing parent-coach dynamics to maintaining respect within the team, this episode is packed with practical advice for aspiring coaches. Learn how to foster a culture of respect and accountability, navigate umpire interactions, and support the development of young athletes. Join us for a wisdom-filled conversation that promises to elevate your coaching game and enrich your approach to leadership in baseball.
Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of travel baseball, offering insights on baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, sports coaching, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.
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- Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
- https://www.athlete1.net
- Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
- https://www.nettingpros.com

Against All Odds: A 40-Year-Old's Comeback to Juco Baseball After Liver Transplants and Cancer
BASEBALL COACHES UNPLUGGED
02/12/25 • 37 min
What drives a 40-year-old father to return to JUCO baseball after two liver transplants and a battle with cancer? Join me, Coach Ken Carpenter, as I sit down with Aaron Rouselle, who defies all odds and inspires with his incredible journey. Hear how Aaron's passion for baseball fuels his fight against adversity and how his background as a former athlete and CrossFit gym owner has equipped him with the mental and physical resilience needed to chase his dreams. This isn't just a story about baseball; it's about the indomitable spirit that defines the human experience.
Stepping onto the field as both a player and a mentor, Aaron shares the unique challenges and rewards of being significantly older than his teammates. Find out how he navigates the team dynamic, transforming initial skepticism into acceptance and respect. His role has evolved beyond just playing; through empathy and understanding, he's become a beacon of support and guidance, embodying the essence of mentorship. Explore the balance between maintaining a solution-oriented mindset and being emotionally attuned to the needs of others, fostering a supportive environment both on and off the field.
We also dive into the broader world of youth sports, addressing the pressures young athletes face and the impact of overzealous parenting. Discover why maintaining a genuine love for the game is crucial for fostering positive competition and resilience. Imagine legendary matchups on the field and the potential for a Major League Baseball salary cap to level the playing field. Through it all, Aaron's unwavering dedication to his baseball dreams serves as a reminder of the importance of passion, resilience, and the legacy we leave behind.
Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on high school baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, youth and travel baseball, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.
- Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
- https://www.athlete1.net
- Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
- https://www.nettingpros.com

From MLB Bat Boy to Head Coach: A Journey Inside Baseball with Johnny Johnson
BASEBALL COACHES UNPLUGGED
07/26/23 • 42 min
Imagine being a bat boy for the Texas Rangers, rubbing shoulders with the giants of the game, and then going on to lead your own high school baseball team to record wins. That's exactly what our guest, Johnny Johnson, the head baseball coach at James Clemens High School in Alabama, did. Johnny takes us through his extraordinary journey, from his days with the Texas Rangers, sharing encounters with legends like Nolan Ryan, Juan Gonzalez, Pudge Rodriguez, and even future President George W. Bush, to his current role molding young athletes.
Now, Johnny isn't just any coach; he's a maverick who believes in playing an aggressive and pressure-filled game, a strategy that saw his 2021 team set a school record for wins and steal their way into the Alabama all-time list. Listen as Johnny shares his philosophy on nurturing instincts in his players, the significance of base running and bunting, and how his unique coaching style has consistently led his team to victory.
But it's not all about wins and records. Johnny also dives into the reality of high school coaching, the challenges posed by the changing landscape of recruiting due to travel ball, and the common pitfalls players and parents fall into during the recruiting process. Hear firsthand the wisdom he's gleaned from his years of coaching, his favorite drill, the Ball Stop Scrimmage, and his insights on the importance of tough love in molding a formidable team. This episode with Johnny Johnson is a grand slam for any baseball enthusiast or aspiring young athlete.
- Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
- https://www.athlete1.net
- Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
- https://www.nettingpros.com

Mastering Base Running and Defensive Skills
BASEBALL COACHES UNPLUGGED
09/04/24 • 32 min
Curious about how to transform your base running game and elevate your defensive skills? Join us in this episode of Baseball Coaches Unplugged where we promise you'll uncover the secrets to mastering these critical aspects of the game with Cody Dennis, former base running coach at Eckerd College and host of the Baseball Blueprint podcast. Cody takes us through his evolution from player to coach, shedding light on the unique hurdles of coaching peers and the groundbreaking strategies he's used to enhance performance at Capital University and Eckerd College.
Our conversation delves into the journey of becoming a confident and competent coach. By sharing personal stories of overcoming initial anxieties and learning how to effectively convey information to both seasoned professionals and eager athletes, we highlight the importance of understanding the "why" behind drills and techniques. Cody elaborates on his base running philosophy, shaped by the insights of Matt Talarico and Mike Roberts, emphasizing strategic thinking and field awareness. We also discuss how generational differences in players' responses to coaching demand adaptability and a tailored approach.
To conclude, we explore the intricacies of infielder development, emphasizing fundamental skills such as glove presentation, fluid movements, and footwork, especially for first basemen. Cody's passion for continuous learning and professional development shines through as he discusses his inspirations for starting the Baseball Blueprint Podcast. We wrap up with some exciting World Series predictions and reflect on the invaluable insights shared by incredible guests on Cody's podcast. Whether you're a coach, player, or baseball enthusiast, this episode is brimming with practical advice and inspirational stories from the world of baseball.
Join our podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of travel baseball, offering insights on baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, sports coaching, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.
Love the show? Leave a review
- Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
- https://www.athlete1.net
- Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
- https://www.nettingpros.com

A Baseball Coach's Tale of Comedy, Character, and Knuckleballs - Jeff Letourneau
BASEBALL COACHES UNPLUGGED
01/10/24 • 57 min
Baseball is more than a game; it's a series of life lessons wrapped in nine innings. This episode peels back the layers of coaching, revealing how Jeff and I instill resilience and humility in players, with anecdotes that underscore the unpredictable nature of sports. Every strike, every catch, every close call is dissected—not just for the play-by-play, but for the heartbeat of growth and character it instills in the athletes we guide. Standout high school performances, personal coaching experiences, and the art of bouncing back from setbacks all take center stage, painting a vivid picture of the local diamond.
But it's not just the balls and strikes that define a player's journey; it's the connections made along the way. Jeff shares his transformative experience from a traditional pitcher to a knuckleballer, and the serendipitous meetings that shaped his path. And as we veer into tales from the St. Paul Saints and anecdotal gems involving Bill Murray, you'll find yourself immersed in the rich narrative tapestry of baseball life. So tune in, and let's explore how passion for the game, mentorship, and a few unexpected turns can make all the difference on and off the field.
- Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
- https://www.athlete1.net
- Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
- https://www.nettingpros.com

Growing America's Pastime - Reggie Hollins/Johnny Johnson
BASEBALL COACHES UNPLUGGED
12/27/23 • 36 min
Discover the transformative journey of Reggie Hollins, from player to revered coach and Tuskegee University Hall of Fame inductee and former head coach, alongside the wisdom of Coach Johnny Johnson of James Clemens High School that goes beyond the baseball diamond. This heartfelt conversation with two bastions of the sport illuminates not just the importance of self-belief and the storied legacy of Tuskegee University but also the way sports shape lives through teamwork, class, and teaching life's crucial lessons. As Reggie and Johnny unravel their stories, we see the deep influence of baseball on community, respect, and how the game fosters unity and resilience across different walks of life.
Coach Hollins shares how he's making a huge impact with minority baseball players across the country. He head up the Minority Baseball Prospects. An organization that has produced 55 MLB Draft Picks | 455 Collegiate Baseball Signees | 10,000+ Served in Free Youth Clinics
Amidst the cracking of bats and the cheers of the crowd, we delve into the pressing issues of modern youth baseball—the evolution from simple recreational leagues to the bustling world of travel teams—and how this impacts families financially. We shine a light on the Open Borders Sports Foundation and its noble pursuit to nurture the sport in underserved areas like St. Martin (Caribbean), providing not just financial aid but coaching and resources to young athletes hungry for growth. Our episode doesn't just celebrate the milestones; it's a clarion call to support the Open Borders initiative's and Minority Baseball Prospects dedication to elevating the raw talent and ensuring that the legacy of baseball remains as rich and inspiring as ever.
- Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
- https://www.athlete1.net
- Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
- https://www.nettingpros.com

Situational Training for High Pressure Success
BASEBALL COACHES UNPLUGGED
10/16/24 • 24 min
Ever wondered how the magic of a winning baseball program is crafted? Join us as Bill O'Connell, the respected head baseball coach at Braintree High School (MA), unveils his playbook for success. Discover how Bill's experiences as a multi-sport athlete in football, hockey, and baseball fuel his competitive edge and coaching strategies. He passionately advocates for athletes participating in multiple sports while offering unique pathways for baseball specialists through fall programs and college showcases. By taking young players into collegiate environments, he not only enhances their skills but also boosts their recruitment prospects. Coaches looking to ignite a competitive spirit in their teams will find Bill's insights both practical and inspiring.
Bill O'Connell opens up about his journey to becoming an impactful coach, shaped by his upbringing and the influence of demanding yet supportive mentors. Explore how he balances discipline with trust, maintaining direct communication with players while managing parental expectations. His innovative approach to practice, influenced by his football coaching background, focuses on situational training to ready players for high-pressure moments. Learn how Bill promotes baseball's growth through structured systems and robust youth programs, ensuring the sport's continued engagement at all levels. Aspiring coaches and baseball enthusiasts alike will appreciate the wealth of knowledge Bill shares, which goes beyond the diamond to building character and winning team culture.
Join the Baseball Coaches Unplugged podcast where an experienced baseball coach delves into the world of high school and travel baseball, offering insights on baseball coaching, leadership skills, hitting skills, pitching strategy, defensive skills, and overall baseball strategy, while also covering high school and college baseball, recruiting tips, sports coaching, and fostering a winning mentality and attitude in baseball players through strong baseball leadership and mentality.
- Follow: Twitter | Instagram @Athlete1Podcast
- https://www.athlete1.net
- Sponsor: The Netting Professionals
- https://www.nettingpros.com

Getting Players To Buy In
BASEBALL COACHES UNPLUGGED
03/10/21 • 34 min
Olentangy Orange Head Baseball Coach Tom Marker is a student of the game. Always learning lessons and not afraid to lean on his assistant coaches and players. Get out your notebook.
- Steubenville, Ohio influence
- Leaning on assistant coaches
- Tough conversations with players
- HC Tim Corbin and the Vandy camps
- Body language
- Great stories
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FAQ
How many episodes does BASEBALL COACHES UNPLUGGED have?
BASEBALL COACHES UNPLUGGED currently has 142 episodes available.
What topics does BASEBALL COACHES UNPLUGGED cover?
The podcast is about Baseball, Podcasts, Sports and College Baseball.
What is the most popular episode on BASEBALL COACHES UNPLUGGED?
The episode title 'Coach Reveals Secret To Throwing 90 MPH and Success - Tom Held' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on BASEBALL COACHES UNPLUGGED?
The average episode length on BASEBALL COACHES UNPLUGGED is 36 minutes.
How often are episodes of BASEBALL COACHES UNPLUGGED released?
Episodes of BASEBALL COACHES UNPLUGGED are typically released every 13 days, 17 hours.
When was the first episode of BASEBALL COACHES UNPLUGGED?
The first episode of BASEBALL COACHES UNPLUGGED was released on Dec 30, 2020.
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