Signed & Ready

In this episode, we're joined by Jay Paterno — former D1 coach, author, and advocate for the future of college athletics. Son of coaching legend Joe Paterno and author of BLITZED!, Jay brings a rare perspective that bridges tradition and transformation in the world of recruiting.Together, we unpack what most families are missing when it comes to choosing the right school — and why chasing offers, rankings, or money first leads to burnout, disappointment, and regret.You’ll learn:Why the most successful programs recruit values first, not statsThe #1 thing players need to hear from parents after gamesHow mental performance and leadership actually get kids recruitedThe real toll NIL, early commitments, and the transfer portal are takingWhy most families are spending money backward — and what to do insteadWhether you're a parent, coach, or athlete navigating the recruiting chaos, this episode is your permission to slow down, zoom out, and lead with clarity.

Most families approach recruiting like they’re walking up to Lake Michigan with a busted rod, random bait, and zero idea what they’re trying to catch.That ends now.In this episode, we break down the metaphor that’s changing the way families think about recruiting — and explain what it really takes to get seen, get signed, and get what you actually want out of this process.We talk about:Why random exposure isn’t a strategyThe most important (but overlooked) part of your “setup”How to figure out what kind of school is the right fitWhat separates players who lead the process from the ones who get lost in itIf you're tired of guessing and ready to lead, this one's for you.Want the tools, training & support to do recruiting THIS way? Sign up for our On Deck list to be the first to hear about our upcoming programs and resources! www.mentalsweetspot.com/ondeck

What do former Division 1 players really want younger athletes to know?In this episode, we’re passing the mic to the ones who’ve lived it — the workouts, the visits, the pressure, and the growth that comes with being a college athlete.They share what they wish they knew during the recruiting process, including:– What to actually pay attention to on visits– The importance of choosing the school for the school– Why failure isn’t the enemy — it’s the teacher– How to lead your process without losing yourself– The mindset that helped them thrive beyond softballThis episode is packed with real advice, big perspective shifts, and the kind of honesty your daughter needs to hear — whether she’s just starting out or deep in the recruiting journey.Listen now. Then send it to your favorite softball player. This one’s for her.

We didn’t start this podcast to talk about recruiting.We started it to talk about the real work — the leadership, mindset, and self-trust it takes to show up when the pressure’s on.But recruiting kept coming up.And we realized…It’s not a separate conversation.It’s the same conversation.Because what gets you recruited?Isn’t exposure.It’s identity.In this episode, we’re sharing:– Why we added a recruiting angle to our work– What families miss when they chase visibility instead of readiness– Alicia’s stories of athletes who earned DI scholarships through leadership– Mel’s personal journey with the mental game that changed everythingThis isn’t about collecting offers.It’s about becoming the kind of player, leader, and human who’s ready when the offer comes.🎧 Listen now.Then share it with the softball parent who’s ready to lead with more than just a schedule of camps.

Most parents think they’re helping.But too often, they’re creating pressure, confusion, and chaos — and it’s costing their daughter opportunities.In this real-talk episode, Mel (current college coach) breaks down what’s really going through a coach’s mind when they watch players... and their parents.👉 What sideline behavior sends red flags👉 The choices that actually support your daughter’s game👉 How to become an asset in the process — not a reason coaches walk awayIf your daughter has big college dreams, this episode is a must-listen.Want a better way to navigate this process?🧠 Join the Recruiting Revolution BootcampThe mindset + leadership training that makes families more coachable — and athletes more recruitable.90 minutes. 3 Steps to a better way. www.mentalsweetspot.com/recruitingbootcampWant to help her get recruited to her dream school?Get her Ready for OffersThe complete strategy + mental game training that gives her the edge coaches can’t ignore.www.mentalsweetspot.com/readyforoffers

She crushes it in practice.Lights it up at local games.But the moment a college coach pulls out a radar gun or sits behind the backstop?It’s like she forgets how to swing.In this episode, we’re breaking down exactly why that happens — and what to do about it.You’ll learn:– The real reason athletes “choke” when it matters– What not to say in those moments– How parents can reduce pressure instead of add to it– Our #1 tool to help players recover in real timeBecause this isn’t about being mentally weak.It’s about not having the tools — yet.🎯 If your daughter needs those tools, she’ll get them inside Ready for Offers.🧠 And if you want to lead her through this process with calm, clarity, and confidence — the Recruiting Bootcamp was built for you.🎧 Listen now.This might be the episode that changes everything.

The recruiting world can feel like total chaos — and too often, parents are left guessing: Are we doing enough? Are we doing it right? In this episode, we cut through the noise and get real about what actually moves the needle.You’ll hear:✅ The most common traps families fall into (and how to avoid them)✅ What confident, coachable athletes actually do differently✅ How parents can model leadership — even when they feel unsure themselves✅ Why clarity, composure, and presence matter more than a perfect profileThis isn’t just theory. It’s strategy from the people who’ve helped hundreds of athletes get recruited — and thrive once they do.Want more like this - and more personalized? Join a bootcamp! https://www.mentalsweetspot.com/recruitingbootcamp

Wondering what you can do to help her in this recruiting journey?Worried you won't have the answers?Stressed about her finding the right fit?We've got you.https://www.mentalsweetspot.com/recruitingbootcamp

Everyone talks about exposure. But if that were the secret, every player with a highlight reel would be signing letters of intent.In Part 3 of our Exposure to Offers series, we reveal the real game-changer: self-leadership.Because coaches aren’t just watching your stats — they’re watching how you carry yourself.In this episode, we break down:What self-leadership actually looks like in athletesHow it impacts offers (even without direct feedback from coaches)The small, incremental actions that make you unforgettableIf you want to stand out — not just get seen — this is the episode to lock in.Want to make some REAL progress in recruiting? Get her Ready for Offers at https://www.mentalsweetspot.com/readyforoffers

Here’s the truth: coaches don’t recruit highlight reels — they recruit how she carries herself when things get hard.In this episode of Signed & Ready, Coach Mel Rushing and Coach Alicia Smith break down the invisible side of recruiting — the part stats can’t show and exposure can’t guarantee.Because what really gets a player noticed isn’t just talent.It’s presence.It’s leadership.It’s the ability to stay composed, confident, and coachable under pressure.Whether your athlete is just starting to email coaches or already attending camps, this episode will help her understand what college recruiters are really evaluating every time she steps on the field.You’ll LearnWhat “presence” actually means (and how coaches define it).The body language habits that make or break first impressions.How to stand out in camps and tournaments — even when she’s not the loudest or flashiest.Why leadership is the deciding factor between being seen and being signed.Key Takeaway“Highlight reels get you noticed, but we recruit resilience & grit.”Coaches recruit players they trust to compete, lead, and elevate the team — and that starts with how she shows up when it matters most.Listen If Your Athlete...💥 Feels pressure to be perfect in front of coaches💥 Struggles to bounce back after mistakes💥 Wants to stand out but isn’t sure how💥 Is tired of being overlooked despite her talentNext Step: Give Her the Edge Coaches Actually RecruitIf your daughter has the talent but isn’t getting traction in recruiting, it’s not because she’s not good enough — it’s because she’s missing the mental edge.That’s why we created Ready for Offers — a self-paced, on-demand program that helps athletes build the presence, composure, and leadership that turn exposure into real offers.👉 Get her Ready for Offers today: mentalsweetspot.com/readyforoffersBecause exposure gets her seen — but leadership gets her signed.Connect with Us🎧 Subscribe to Signed & Ready for weekly episodes on mindset, leadership, and recruiting for softball players and parents.💻 Explore programs: mentalsweetspot.com

Thousands of softball players spend time, money, and energy trying to get seen — but exposure alone doesn’t get offers. In this episode, we break down why the “spray-and-pray” approach to recruiting is leaving talented athletes stressed, stuck, and overlooked.You’ll learn:Why being seen ≠ getting signedWhat coaches are actually looking for (beyond your stat line)The shift that reduces pressure and puts players back in controlWhether you're early in the process or already talking to coaches, this episode gives you the mindset advantage that makes recruiters pay attention.🧠 Ready to go deeper? Check out our Ready for Offers program → mentalsweetspot.com/readyforoffers

If you're a softball parent, coach or athlete navigating the college recruiting process, you're in the right place.Welcome to Signed & Ready — the podcast where we coach the mental game of recruiting so athletes can lead themselves, play with confidence, and finally get seen for what they’re really capable of.In this trailer episode, host Alicia Smith (head coach, recruiting mentor, and mental performance coach) shares the why behind the podcast, the real edge college coaches are looking for, and how to break free from the pressure, panic, and chaos of the traditional recruiting grind.🎯 What you'll learn in this episode:Why the mental game matters more than everWhat it means to find your athlete’s “mental sweet spot”How to help your daughter show up calm, confident, and college-readyWhat to expect from future episodes (Q&As, coaching insights, real stories)Whether you're chasing a scholarship or just want your daughter to play with pride, presence, and purpose — Signed & Ready will guide you every step of the way.👉 Subscribe now and start building the mindset that gets her signed — and makes her unstoppable.Learn more at https://www.mentalsweetspot.comKeywords: softball recruiting, college softball, mental performance, athlete mindset, mental game, sports parenting, softball scholarships, college recruiting tips, recruiting podcast, softball coach

Imagine being able to screen your girls before practice to get a true idea of what you're going to get out of them that day? Instead of HOPING you notice the signs. Hoping you don't miss one player among 12-30 players. All so you can get the most out of your limited time with them. And what if that process only took a couple minutes using their phones? Oh and THEN what if each player was immediately given a suggested exercise to boost their mental & emotional state for THIS practice. That's what Rewire does! Listen in to hear how their app is revolutionizing how we manage our emotional & mental stress :)----Learn more at https://rewirefitness.app/

Ever look at your team mid-practice (or mid GAME) and think... Are they ALIVE? There are so many things that drain their energy, then before you know it the energy is gone and you might as well call it a day. And if we're honest, we have those days too! Today's guest not only speaks to this topic - he EXUDES energy and positivity! No joke - he had me standing up in Superwoman pose. You ready to get some fantastic nuggets from a world class athlete, dad, and motivational speaker? Listen in!----->> David Lindsay's site>> Mental Sweet Spot Resources

In today's episode, we chat with Bootcamp OG Candace Fenton-Brockbader! You're going to find so many moments in this episode you can relate to. She is a GEM!

Coaching is hard. You know what I mean. Not the on-field stuff. It's the attitudes... The lack of competitiveness... The people talking smack about how you're doing things. It can be draining. Honestly, that kind of stuff can make you want to quit. Alicia and I have certainly both considered it. Many times. But what keeps us coming back? What keeps us grounded, confident that we're on the right path, and unshakable despite other people's opinions? Hands down, it's Culture. This is what we want for you and why we're hosting the Softball Coaches Culture Bootcamp. Tickets are available by the time you're hearing this and we kick off Monday, August 7th. And BONUS - Lonni Alameda will be joining us for a Q&A too! Head to mentalsweetspot.com/bootcamp to learn more. Now onto the episode!-----It is my most sincere wish for EVERY softball coach to feel the way Alicia and I do when we reflect on our careers this far. If we could reach every coach who truly cared about their girls and wanted to help them grow as PEOPLE... And we could give them the confidence and clarity we have now... We could positively impact MILLIONS of girls. That's why I want you Softball Coaches' Culture Bootcamp. To learn more, head to mentalsweetspot.com/bootcamp

Culture can be complicated. You have to get 12-20+ players on the same page, understanding what it takes to achieve the goals they want. As vital as any coach like you knows culture is... it can be difficult to maintain a positive one with so many culture killers out there. But maintaining a strong, supportive culture is honestly THE most important thing we can do for our teams. Today we discuss the top 3 culture killers we've come across through the years, so you can get ahead of them this season!And if you wish you had a better way to keep your culture on track, join the waitlist for Culture Bootcamp! Doors open NEXT Monday, July 24th. Join the waitlist or tune in to the end of the episode to hear who our DI, National-Championship-winning, and even more amazing human special guest will be!- - - - -Once you've identified the top culture killers that I KNOW you've experienced yourself, you might be wondering how you can prevent them! Full disclaimer: you can't prevent culture killers from showing up, but there IS a way to identify them early and get back on track faster!With your very own, customized and ACTIONABLE Dream Team Blueprint!In the Softball Coaches' Culture Bootcamp, we'll walk you through creating your own blueprint so you can get your entire team (and the parents) to buy in to what you're doing, be more committed, care more, give better effort and have more fun while they're doing the things to make them their best!We kick off August 7th and the GRAND finale will be with the one and only Lonni Alameda on August 14th! It's going to be a blast and could honestly skyrocket the trajectory of your impact on your girls! www.mentalsweetspot.com/waitlist!

We coaches are contantly looking forward. What's next. Where is there room to improve. What can we do better as a coach? But sometimes the answers are already there for us - if we just take a peek into our recent past. With Alicia on a trip with her daughter's soccer team this week, I was struggling with what to air on the podcast. We've got bootcamp coming up quickly, we have so many lessons we still want to share, but I want to have Alicia here to discuss them... And then it hit me. We already have AMAZING content that I'm certain you could benefit from. So in honor of Bootcamp (doors open July 24!) I'm going to refer you to our past bootcamp special guests to hear how some of the ALL STARS of softball coaching develop their team culture! Simply head to the podcast notes & you'll see the links for our episodes with Florida State's Lonni Alameda, Michigan's Hutch & Bonnie Tholl, Patrick Murphy from Alabama, Sue Enquist formerly of UCLA and Mike Candrea - recently retired from the University of Arizona. Then if you're as inspired as we were, we hope you consider joining this round's bootcamp where we'll help you BUILD that kind of culture! Just head to mentalsweetspot.com/waitlist and join to be notified when tickets go on sale!I know you're excited now, so check those out! Florida State's Lonni AlamedaMichigan's Hutch & Bonnie ThollAlabama's Patrick MurphyUCLA's Sue EnquistArizona's Mike Candrea

As much as we as coaches want to control the situation and do everything in our power to help our girls succeed... There are some times when we have to realize - it's not about us. Sometimes we have to let go a bit in order to let the TEAM take the reins. And if you've done your job leading up to that point, it's most likely going to turn out even better than you could have imagined. That's what Alicia is talking about today and what YOU can experience once you have your Culture Blueprint in place (more info on that at the end!) For now, let's hear how Mattawan's season ended up!- - - - -Now if you're thinking... I don't know if I'd be able to push through a challenge like that, you're NOT alone. Those low moments can be TOUGH. And there are honestly times when we don't come out of them like Alicia's team did. I know I've had those seasons (yes multiple) where you try and try all season long and NOTHING clicks.It doesn't have to be that much of a struggle. What if I told you there was a proven, SIMPLE process in which to put that trust we talk about so often? One that your players not only buy into... one they help CREATE.That's what we create in the Softball Coaches' Culture Bootcamp!Kicking off Monday, August 7th, we will spend 3 evenings creating your own unique, actionable Dream Team Blueprint. So your girls can stay motivated, focused and accountable to the things that will help them reach their goals!Doors open July 24th, but you can join the waitlist now at https://www.mentalsweetspot.com/waitlist!

Have you ever felt at a loss? Scratching your head... maybe even pulling-your-hair-out level... No clue what to do to get them to CARE? You're certainly not alone. Every coach has been in this spot where you can't seem to figure out what to do to fix what's going on. We have a remedy for getting stuck here (ahem - bootcamp!) that I'll share at the end of the episode. But for now, Join in to hear how even this champion, Hall of Fame coach OCCASIONALLY goes through the same thing.-----We have one more episode to wrap up Mattawan's season after this. And spoiler alert: CULTURE wins in the end. So if you want to start building the kind of culture that can survive THIS kind of challenge, you're in luck!The Softball Coaches' Culture Bootcamp is back! For those who don't know, Bootcamp is a 3-part virtual experience where we guide you through creating your Dream Team Blueprint. Think of it as your guiding compass to an AMAZING culture. For those who DO know, it's getting even better this round! Not only will we have another amazing special guest... but you will also get Alicia as my co-coach to help guide you through your blueprints! Doors open July 24th... we kick off August 7th... and to get the join link directly to your inbox, head to mentalsweetspot.com/waitlist to be notified first!