The Car Ride Home with the Alliance Fastpitch

Dena Tyson-Slye, three-time Women's College World Series participant and All-American at the University of Washington, as well as a successful coach within the Corona Angels organization, shares her insights on softball, personal growth, and leaving a positive legacy.Dena opens up about her own struggles as a college player and how vulnerability has shaped her coaching style. She emphasizes the importance of accountability, self-assessment, and focusing on personal development to become the best version of oneself.Throughout the conversation, Dena's passion for personal growth, accountability, and leaving a positive impact shines through. Her message is clear: by focusing on becoming the best version of yourself and working together as a team, success will follow.

Ali Newland, LSU senior outfielder and catcher, SEC Scholar Athlete of the Year, and outfielder extradordinaire, dives into this episode of The Car Ride Home. In this wide-ranging conversation, Ali shares insights from her softball journey and discusses the importance of serving others and leaving a positive legacy. Ali jumps into her experience playing travel ball, championship moments with her team, and committing to LSU as a high school freshman. She reflects on her supportive family, especially her dad who coached her growing up. As a leader at LSU, Ali talks about getting involved with the Student Athlete Advisory Committee to serve others and create change. She explains the importance of utilizing mental health resources and describes how she personally manages the demands of being a student-athlete. Looking ahead to life after softball, Ali hopes people remember how much she loved the game, her teammates, and LSU. She aims to help lead her team back to the Women's College World Series and leave a legacy defined by fun, love, and service. Hop right in and enjoy the latest episode of The Car Ride Home

In possibly the funniest episode yet of The Car Ride Home, host Jami Lobpries engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Sam Fischer and Haylie McCleney. The conversation delves into the challenges and triumphs of pursuing a career in professional softball, with Sam and Haylie sharing their experiences and insights on the importance of adaptability, personal growth, and the continuous pursuit of improvement. Throughout the episode, the two athletes discuss the mental and physical demands of the sport, the sacrifices they've made to reach the highest levels of competition, and the strategies they employ to maintain longevity in their careers. They also touch on the exciting growth of women's sports and the impact of recent media attention on the future of softball. Sam and Haylie offer valuable advice for aspiring athletes, emphasizing the significance of self-motivation, embracing change, and developing a strong support system. The conversation also explores the concept of finding purpose and identity beyond the game, as well as the role of resilience and perseverance in overcoming setbacks. Get ready to laugh, learn and grow a little with Haylie, Sam and Jami.

In this episode of The Car Ride Home, host Jami Lobpries is joined by Maria Jennings, the mother of softball stars Tiare and Tele Jennings. Maria shares her experiences as a dedicated softball mom, discussing the sacrifices and joys that come with supporting her daughters' athletic careers. Throughout the conversation, Maria reflects on her daughters' unique journeys, from their early days in youth sports to their current success at the collegiate level. She offers insights into the challenges of balancing family life with the demands of travel ball and the importance of allowing each child to forge their own path. Maria also shares advice for parents navigating the competitive world of youth softball, emphasizing the significance of being a supportive presence and encouraging young athletes to enjoy the moment. With a mix of heartfelt anecdotes and practical wisdom, this episode is a must-listen for any parent involved in their child's athletic pursuits.

In this episode of the Car Ride Home Podcast, we sit down with Morgan Stuart, the powerhouse behind Defense Club and a renowned infield coach. Stuart, a national champion from the University of Washington with a rich professional and international playing background, examines her passion for developing softball players and how her own experiences shaped her coaching philosophy. From the fundamentals of defense to the mental and emotional aspects of coaching young athletes, Morgan shares invaluable insights and inspiring stories.

In this episode of the Car Ride Home Podcast, we buckle up with Suzy Willemssen, a trailblazer in women’s fastpitch softball, as we navigate her influential roles as the founder of Glory Fastpitch, head coach of the 18u and under Virginia Glory team, and a hall of fame inductee. We delve into Suzy’s early experiences in softball, starting off in baseball, and the evolution of her passion into a coaching philosophy that's impacted countless athletes. Suzy’s college days at the University of Iowa under the shadow of Title IX and her views on the monumental shifts in women’s sports provide a historical backdrop to the advancements and challenges faced by female athletes. Suzy emphasizes the critical role of coaches and parents in shaping an athlete's journey, advocating for a supportive and understanding approach to nurturing talent. Through stories of building the Virginia Glory organization and navigating the complexities of youth sports, Suzy offers invaluable advice on leadership, team building, and creating a purpose-driven softball community. Join us as we explore the intersections of personal growth, leadership, and the unifying power of sports on the Car Ride Home Podcast.

In this episode of the Car Ride Home, join host Jami Lobpries as she rides shotgun with Amanda Lorenz. As they cruise through conversations about confidence, preparation, and memorable car rides, Amanda shares insights from her time as a four-time All-American at the University of Florida and her journey in professional softball. From breaking down her 'see ball, hit ball' philosophy to discussing the development of her relationships with teammates, Amanda delves into the mental and physical aspects of her game. Listen in for a peek into her life, lessons learned from driving through LA traffic for practice, and how she has made an impact in the game of softball. With the 2028 Olympics on the horizon, Amanda also reflects on her aspirations to compete on home soil.

In this episode, our host Jami goes deep into the world of competitive softball with Jeremy Higdon - a figure synonymous with excellence in youth sports coaching and events with his organizations Fury Platinum and Connect Sports. Jeremy highlights the intricacies of building a successful sports organization and the art of crafting memorable events. From discussing the soundtrack of a championship season to the fine line between coaching and mentorship, this conversation is a look into the life of a man who helps shape athletes into champions on and off the field.

In this week's episode of "The Car Ride Home," host Jami Lobpries sits down with Ashlie Rowley. As the founder and CEO of the Colorado Softball Academy and General Manager of the Alliance Performance Center, NOCO, Ashlie shares her multifaceted journey from a collegiate athlete at the University of Florida to a revered coach and softball mom. This conversation delves into the transformative power of positive self-affirmation in young athletes, the nostalgic trips to favorite post-game restaurants, and the eclectic pre-game music that fuels the competitive spirit. Ashlie's personal story of overcoming injuries and her unorthodox route to college softball highlights resilience and determination. Rowley also discusses the AFFL, Alliance Futures Fast Pitch League, a program designed to nurture confidence and competence in young female athletes, setting them up for success both on and off the field. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on empowering the next generation, the significance of accessible, high-quality softball opportunities, and the impact of community and family in shaping young athletes' futures.

Welcome to another thrilling episode of "The Car Ride Home" with your host, Jami Lobpries! In this week's installment, Jami is joined by the immensely talented Jade Hewitt, a force to be reckoned with in the realm of sports photography (and an authentic storyteller.) Jade's journey is nothing short of awe-inspiring. From her early days with the Dallas Charge to her time with the Scrap Yard Dawgs, to the incredible moment of capturing the Silver Medal-winning scenes of Team USA Softball at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. But the narrative doesn't conclude there. Jade continues to make waves in the sports photography scene as the Director of Photography for Athletes Unlimited, overseeing four women's professional sports leagues: softball, volleyball, lacrosse, and basketball. Join Jami Lobpries and Jade as they delve into her extraordinary journey—from her D3 collegiate softball days to her remarkable transition into the world of sports photography. Brace yourself for a ride filled with triumphs, a little bit of tears, and the product that unfolds when passion meets talent.

Today, we have with us Sierra Romero, a softball legend with a list of accolades that speak volumes about her dedication to the game. Sierra Romero is not just a 4-time All-American, 3-time Big 10 Player of the Year, and the 2016 National Player of the Year; she's a University of Michigan Hall of Famer. With numerous single-season and career records for NCAA, Big 10, and Michigan under her belt, Romero's impact on the softball field is nothing short of legendary. In this episode, Sierra takes us on a journey through her remarkable career, from her college days to her impressive four seasons in the NPF and her current time with AU. Beyond her on-field achievements, Sierra shares her passion for fostering a strong softball community, emphasizing her family's impact on her approach to the game. But Sierra's contributions to softball extend far beyond the playing field. As the founder of The 32 Approach, she dives into the motivation behind creating the app as a way to understand players' unique needs, catering to their strengths, and addressing weaknesses to elevate their performance. Sierra Romero is on a mission to revolutionize softball training, and her vision shines through as she discusses her aspiration to make her softball app the best and number one in the industry. Join us for a captivating conversation with a softball icon who continues to inspire on and off the field. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from Sierra Romero's journey and passion for the game! 🥎✨

Cat Osterman shares insights from her softball journey - from little league to the Olympics. She discusses her experience playing travel ball and the differences from when she played to now, including more focus on development through practice. Cat also dives into the relationships between pitchers and catchers, calling pitches, and using data. She explains her viewpoint on dominant pitchers versus pitching staffs and implementing new pitches. Looking ahead, Cat talks about her excitement for the Athletes Unlimited Stars of Tomorrow Games to showcase youth talent and give them valuable experience. With softball back in the Olympics, she discusses what it might take for the sport to stay permanently. Throughout the wide-ranging conversation Cat provides wisdom from her standout playing career as well as coaching. She aims to grow the game and develop well-rounded athletes.

Welcome back to another episode of "The Car Ride Home" with your host, Jami Lobpries. This week, Jami is joined by the incredible Holly Pearce, a former NCAA pitcher turned coach with a wealth of experience across all levels of play. The journey begins with a nostalgic drive down memory lane, as Holly shares her most memorable car ride experiences from college days. The conversation delves into Holly's unique upbringing as the daughter of a Canadian Olympic figure skater, highlighting her early exposure to sports and the decision to pursue softball. Holly unfolds her transition into pitching, reflecting on the joy of being in control and actively participating in every play. The episode explores her recruiting days, the challenges of social acclimation, and the pivotal moment when she realized her passion for coaching. Listeners get an exclusive peek into the innovative concept of "range pitching" that Holly helped to develop, aimed at providing value beyond the top-tier pitchers. Don't miss this episode filled with tales of finding yourself through sport, coaching wisdom, and the transformative power of the game on "The Car Ride Home" podcast!

Welcome back to another episode of The Car Ride Home podcast! The episode kicks off with some stage-setting banter with Ryker Chason, where our host reveals their love for country music and proudly declares themselves a Swiftie, currently jamming to Taylor Swift's 1989. Our host dives into a trip down memory lane, recalling the most memorable car ride – a victorious journey back from a game during their early coaching days. A particularly vivid moment is shared about "that dad" who presumably made a lasting impression.We learn about our Ryker’s experience as a pitching coach at LSU and the desire to forge their own path in life. Chason shares their journey and career shift leaving college and venturing into OGX. They reflect on their original plan to be under a great pitching coach, the enjoyment found in the game and coaching kids, and the challenges of coaching at the college level, especially in the wake of COVID-19.The episode wraps up with a rapid-fire round, covering topics from men's fastpitch pitchers to the best advice for coaches and pitchers, and even a shoutout to current college pitching stars Phelps and Valerie Cagle. Don't miss this episode packed with nostalgia, insights, and a dash of country music!

Austin shares his experiences growing up in New Hampshire and the role that sports, particularly baseball, played in his life. From there, we explore his journey, from aspiring to be an MLB strength coach to his educational pursuits. You'll discover how Austin's path led him to two years of independent baseball, where he played for the Worcester Tornadoes, and his subsequent return to school to earn a master's degree in clinical nutrition. But his story doesn't stop there! Austin realized the need to enhance throwing capabilities and founded High Level Throwing. Austin shares his transition to the softball world and the pivotal moment when Coach Pat Murphy called. He discusses the importance of teaching young athletes to move and rotate effectively, focusing on quality rotation. The episode takes an engaging turn as we dive into wrist flicks and discover what "throwing like a girl" means to Austin. If you're ready for an in-depth conversation with Austin Wasserman about his remarkable journey through baseball, strength coaching, and the softball realm, hit that play button now! Get ready to be inspired and gain insights into the world of high-level throwing. The Car Ride Home is the show where we uncover the untold stories and expertise of incredible individuals in softball world. Subscribe, like, and share to stay up to date with our latest episodes!

Buckle up and get ready for an inspiring ride as newly committed UF Catcher, Jocelyn Erickson, joins us this week on the Car Ride Home. From her early years, Jocelyn's accolades began accumulating from AFCS Champion, USSSA World Champion, MaxPreps All-American etc, leading her to become a national champion with the Sooners. In this episode, the former Alliance All-Star takes us on a journey through her softball career, sharing her experiences in recruiting, being designated the Triple Crown Winner at the 2022 AFCS, and the profound importance she places on leadership and community within her team. Embark on Jocelyn's initial commitment journey and discover how it has shaped her perspective on the Transfer Portal. Her determination and drive to push herself further in the sport are evident as she shares the challenges and triumphs of her softball journey. As the All-Star game approaches, Jocelyn offers an exclusive look into her feelings about the game and how it played a vital role in her first year of collegiate softball at OU. Join us as we explore the highs and lows of Jocelyn's remarkable softball journey, from her early days on the field to her triumphant moments in the All-Star games and National Championships. This episode is a testament to the integrity, passion, and inspiration demonstrated by a true champion in the sport. Whether you're a softball enthusiast or simply seeking motivation, hop in and join us on this unforgettable Car Ride Home with Jocelyn Erickson!

On this episode of “The Car Ride Home” podcast as we sit down with David McCorkle, a seasoned softball coach across travel and high school fastpitch and a program director in the world of softball. What started as an accidental detour from his plans to coach baseball, turned into a passion and love for the game of softball. His twist of fate into becoming head softball coach at Clements High School, all while teaching math, led him to a 21 year high school softball coaching career. McCorkle shares his challenges and triumphs he endured while coaching both high school softball and travel ball teams. In 2020, Aces Express, the long time program McCorkle had been a part of, merged with the Bombers. This merger propelled him into the position of Assistant Director of the Bombers. This new role allowed for McCorkle to explore his passion for event directing. Taking the skills he acquired over the years, he founded Gold Cup Events in 2012 and later merged with 5 Tool Sports & Performance in 2020, contributing to the growth and success of Alliance. Throughout our conversation, we'll explore McCorkle's dedication to event directing and how he navigated the transition from coaching to managing and organizing tournaments. From mastering Excel sheets to working with applications like Tourney Machine, McCorkle has watched the world of softball event directing transform. His expertise has been instrumental in shaping the success of Alliance. Tune in to hear firsthand anecdotes, valuable insights, and lessons learned from David McCorkle's remarkable journey in the world of softball and event directing.

Join us on this captivating episode of The Car Ride Home as we delve into the inspiring journey of Ryan Moore, the visionary behind FGCL and CEO of UMR Sports. With a mission to transform lives through the American Collegiate League, Moore has pioneered a remarkable initiative that intertwines the sport of softball with national summer collegiate play. From humble beginnings, Ryan shares his remarkable path towards becoming a catalyst for change in the lives of collegiate players. Discover how his dedication and entrepreneurial spirit led to the creation of an environment that provides unparalleled value to athletes. In this episode, we explore the power of athlete interaction and networking within the framework of summer collegiate play. Uncover the transformative impact these experiences have on the personal and professional growth of aspiring athletes. Prepare to be inspired as we delve into the stories of those whose lives have been positively shaped through the invaluable opportunities provided by Ryan Moore's visionary leadership.

Jami Lobpries starts this car ride with Lesley Feldman, an accomplished lawyer, former UCLA softball player, and co-founder of Players Collective. Lesley shares her inspiring story of how her time as a collegiate athlete and her legal career converged, leading her to become a passionate advocate for female athletes. During her days at UCLA, Lesley experienced firsthand the transformative power of team sports and the importance of collaboration. As she transitioned into her legal profession, Lesley continued to be drawn to the world of sports representation, fueled by her passion for empowering athletes. Through her work, she has been able to combine her legal expertise and love for sports to guide and support athletes in navigating complex contractual landscapes. The conversation takes a fascinating turn as we explore the inception of Players Collective, an organization formed in response to the changing landscape of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals in collegiate sports. Lesley and her colleagues recognized the unique challenges faced by female athletes in this evolving environment and set out to protect their rights and provide invaluable resources and guidance. Tune in as Lesley discusses the pivotal role of Players Collective in advocating for the rights of female athletes, the initiatives they have undertaken, and the impact they have made thus far. Join us for an engaging conversation with Lesley Feldman, where we celebrate her journey, delve into the challenges she has faced, and gain valuable insights into the importance of empowering female athletes in today's sporting landscape.

In this episode of The Car Ride Home Podcast, we are thrilled to have Jennie Ritter, a remarkable individual who has left an indelible mark on the world of softball. Jennie's journey is nothing short of inspiring, from being a Michigan Softball Alum to becoming an ESPN Softball Analyst and a USA Softball Player. As a Wilson Fastpitch Business Manager, Jennie shares her experiences in managing a brand and working with different sectors of the fastpitch industry to continue to develop brand loyalty. A natural networker, she dives into the intricacies of cultivating relationships and how they have played a pivotal role in her personal and professional growth. Jennie wears her heart on her sleeve when it comes to representing Wilson. She discusses the passion and dedication she pours into her role, highlighting how being a part of the Wilson team has allowed her to contribute to the growth and success of the sport she loves. Furthermore, Jennie reflects on the invaluable life lessons she learned from Coach Hutch and her time playing at the University of Michigan. She delves into the values instilled within her during her college softball journey and shares how those lessons have shaped her approach to life beyond the field. Join us on this episode as we uncover the remarkable achievements of Jennie, her dedication to the sport of softball, and the profound impact it has had on her life. Get ready to be inspired by the resilience and passion that drives her every step of the way.