Dropping Diamonds with AJ Andrews

In this episode, AJ Andrews interviews Olympian and professional softball player Erika Piancastelli to explore her journey through the sport. They discuss the role of mindset, confidence, and training in her success, as well as the support systems that have helped shape her career. Also, Erika reflects on breaking barriers in softball, her experience competing in the Home Run Derby, and the emotional path that led her to the Tokyo Olympics. She also shares insight into the unique challenges and rewards of performing at the highest level of competition.   Looking for more diamonds?  Watch the show on YouTube and follow on Instagram. For more on the latest with AJ, catch her on Instagram and X. Share the diamonds you received from this episode by leaving a rating and a review!     Dropping Diamonds with AJ Andrews is in partnership with the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Aleshia Ocasio opens up about her journey through the world of softball, from setting personal standards and navigating the college recruiting process to mastering the challenges of pitching. She reflects on balancing beauty and athleticism, staying true to herself, overcoming injuries, and developing the mental toughness necessary to succeed at the highest level. Looking for more diamonds?  Watch the show on YouTube and follow on Instagram. For more on the latest with AJ, catch her on Instagram and X. Share the diamonds you received from this episode by leaving a rating and a review!     Dropping Diamonds with AJ Andrews is in partnership with the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

AJ continues to unwrap her favorite affirmations and lessons from past guests, including Sam Fischer, Michaela Edenfield, Natasha Watley, Odicci Alexander-Bennett, and Megan Faraimo, in this two-part series.  Looking for more diamonds?  Watch the show on YouTube and follow on Instagram. For more on the latest with AJ, catch her on Instagram and X. Share the diamonds you received from this episode by leaving a rating and a review!     Dropping Diamonds with AJ Andrews is in partnership with the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL).  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this special holiday episode, AJ unwraps the ultimate gift: mindset. Kicking off a two-part series, AJ revisits some of her favorite affirmations and lessons from past guests, Skylar Wallace, Baylee Klingler, Carley Hoover, Kim NG, and Sharlize Palacios, that shaped the year and continue to give. Looking for more diamonds?  Watch the show on YouTube and follow on Instagram. For more on the latest with AJ, catch her on Instagram and X. Share the diamonds you received from this episode by leaving a rating and a review!     Dropping Diamonds with AJ Andrews is in partnership with the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL).  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this conversation, Sahvanna Jaquish discusses the significance of maintaining team culture, the value of hard work, the importance of authenticity, and overcoming personal doubts. She shares her experiences of feeling misunderstood in sports and emphasizes the need for trust between players and coaches. Additionally, she reflects on her time playing in Japan, highlighting the cultural differences and the mental toughness she developed through challenging experiences. Looking for more diamonds?  Watch the show on YouTube and follow on Instagram. For more on the latest with AJ, catch her on Instagram and X. Share the diamonds you received from this episode by leaving a rating and a review!     Dropping Diamonds with AJ Andrews is in partnership with the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, AJ is joined by the athlete's go-to brand builder and owner of AthleteCon, Sam Green. Sam shares her journey from competitive dancer to leader in athlete branding and NIL (Name, Image, Likeness). She highlights the importance of personal growth, affirmations, and the life lessons sports provide. Sam explains how athletes can build strong personal brands, use social media effectively, and overcome the fear of putting themselves out there online. She also offers practical strategies, success stories, and actionable steps for athletes looking to maximize their NIL opportunities.   Looking for more diamonds?  Watch the show on YouTube and follow on Instagram. For more on the latest with AJ, catch her on Instagram and X. Share the diamonds you received from this episode by leaving a rating and a review!  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sam Fischer, senior manager of softball operations, rejoins the show to break down the AUSL’s bold next step: two new teams, new talent, and the impact of this major expansion.   Looking for more diamonds?  Watch the show on YouTube and follow on Instagram. For more on the latest with AJ, catch her on Instagram and X. Share the diamonds you received from this episode by leaving a rating and a review!  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this conversation, Justine Siegal shares her journey as a trailblazer in women's baseball, discussing her role as an associate scout for Major League Baseball, her proudest moments as a mother and coach, and the impact of her foundation, Baseball For All. She emphasizes the importance of creating opportunities for young girls in sports, the inception of the Women's Professional Baseball League (WPBL), and the significance of building a supportive community for female athletes. Justine reflects on the challenges and triumphs of establishing a new league, the importance of mentorship, and her hopes for the future of women's baseball.   Looking for more diamonds?  Watch the show on YouTube and follow on Instagram. For more on the latest with AJ, catch her on Instagram and X. Share the diamonds you received from this episode by leaving a rating and a review!     Dropping Diamonds with AJ Andrews is in partnership with the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this conversation, Odicci Alexander-Bennett shares her journey of overcoming adversity, building self-belief, and defining success on her own terms. She emphasizes the importance of determination, the mindset of a champion, and the power of women in sports. Odicci reflects on her experiences, the challenges she faced, and how embracing failure has been a crucial part of her success.  Looking for more diamonds?  Watch the show on YouTube and follow on Instagram. For more on the latest with AJ, catch her on Instagram and X. Share the diamonds you received from this episode by leaving a rating and a review!     Dropping Diamonds with AJ Andrews is in partnership with the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, AJ is joined by AUSL Senior Manager of Softball Operations, Sam Fischer. Sam shares her journey as a professional softball player, reflecting on the importance of being recognized as more than just an athlete. She opens up about the emotional challenges of retirement, the thoughtful decisions behind it, and her transition into a managerial role within the sport.   Looking for more diamonds?  Watch the show on YouTube and follow on Instagram. For more on the latest with AJ, catch her on Instagram and X. Share the diamonds you received from this episode by leaving a rating and a review!     Dropping Diamonds with AJ Andrews is in partnership with the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this engaging conversation, AUSL Talons, Sharlize Palacios opens up about her journey as a catcher, the powerful influence of her sister, and the meaningful legacy behind wearing number 13. She also reflects on the evolution of her skills, the art of pitch calling, and the vital role team culture plays in achieving success.   Looking for more diamonds?  Watch the show on YouTube and follow on Instagram. For more on the latest with AJ, catch her on Instagram and X. Share the diamonds you received from this episode by leaving a rating and a review!     Dropping Diamonds with AJ Andrews is in partnership with the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, AJ interviews Ana Gold, the rookie of the year and infielder for the AUSL Blaze. Ana shares her journey from a determined young athlete to becoming the Rookie of the Year in professional softball. She emphasizes the importance of perseverance and reflects on her experiences, including the challenges of transitioning to professional sports and the thrill of competing against her idols.    Looking for more diamonds?  Watch the show on YouTube and follow on Instagram. For more on the latest with AJ, catch her on Instagram and X. Share the diamonds you received from this episode by leaving a rating and a review!     Dropping Diamonds with AJ Andrews is in partnership with the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today’s episode, AJ is joined by Kayla Kowalik, the 2025 Athletes Unlimited Softball League All-Star Champion. Kayla opens up about her journey from a multi-sport athlete to one of the most dynamic catchers in softball. She reflects on the key lessons that have shaped her career and what it means to move with intention, both on and off the field. Together, she and AJ dive into the importance of resilience, the power of teamwork, and the mindset it takes to excel at the highest level.   Looking for more diamonds?  Watch the show on YouTube and follow on Instagram. For more on the latest with AJ, catch her on Instagram and X. Share the diamonds you received from this episode by leaving a rating and a review!     Dropping Diamonds with AJ Andrews is in partnership with the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, AJ emphasizes the importance of leveling up in various aspects of life, including sports, work, and personal growth. She shares the mindset required to overcome challenges, the significance of continuous improvement, and the need to redefine success and purpose.   Looking for more diamonds?  Watch the show on YouTube and follow on Instagram. For more on the latest with AJ, catch her on Instagram and X. Share the diamonds you received from this episode by leaving a rating and a review!     Dropping Diamonds with AJ Andrews is in partnership with the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, AJ dives into the hidden dangers of comparison and how it can hinder personal growth and success. She ties these lessons to both athletic performance and everyday life, aiming to build mental resilience alongside physical strength.   Looking for more diamonds?  Watch the show on YouTube and follow on Instagram. For more on the latest with AJ, catch her on Instagram and X. Share the diamonds you received from this episode by leaving a rating and a review!     Dropping Diamonds with AJ Andrews is in partnership with the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL).  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today’s episode, AJ takes a deep dive into the mental side of softball, exploring how to push through tough moments and develop a resilient, winning mindset. She shares her favorite mental tools for staying focused and grounded, and emphasizes the power of intentionality and setting clear, actionable goals.   Looking for more diamonds?  Watch the show on YouTube and follow on Instagram. For more on the latest with AJ, catch her on Instagram and X. Share the diamonds you received from this episode by leaving a rating and a review!     Dropping Diamonds with AJ Andrews is in partnership with the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL).  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, AJ sits down with Blaze Baddie, Baylee Klingler, for an inspiring conversation. They dive into her groundbreaking achievements, the mental strategies behind her game, the support system that’s fueled her journey, and the unstoppable drive that keeps her pushing boundaries.   Looking for more diamonds?    Follow AJ on Instagram and X. Share the diamonds you received from this episode by leaving a rating and a review!     Dropping Diamonds with AJ Andrews is in partnership with the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL).  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joining the show today is AUSL Volts infielder Tiare Jennings. Tiare sits down with AJ to reflect on her journey at the University of Oklahoma, opening up about how faith, teamwork, and strong leadership shaped her path to success. She shares powerful lessons from her coach and the crucial role that relationships and support systems played in helping her navigate adversity. Together, they explore the deeper meaning of the game that goes far beyond wins and losses.   Looking for more diamonds?    Follow AJ on Instagram and X. Share the diamonds you received from this episode by leaving a rating and a review!     Dropping Diamonds with AJ Andrews is in partnership with the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL).  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

AJ sits down with AUSL Volts pitcher Sam Landry - first-team All-American and top 25 finalist for the USA Softball Player of the Year Award. They discuss Sam's transition from college to professional softball, focusing on the importance of self-coaching, overcoming exhaustion, and developing trust in oneself and one's teammates. Plus, Sam opens up about how her faith and a transformative conversation with Coach Patty Gasso helped her rediscover her identity beyond the game. Looking for more diamonds?    Follow AJ on Instagram and X. Share the diamonds you received from this episode by leaving a rating and a review!     Dropping Diamonds with AJ Andrews is in partnership with the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, AJ sits down with All-American softball star Danielle Gibson Whorton of the AUSL Bandits and USA Softball. Danielle reflects on her rare home run cycle, her powerful hitting mindset, and how her psychology background fuels her mental game. She also opens up about navigating postpartum depression and the challenges of balancing life as a pro athlete, mom, coach, and wife—with resilience and grace.   Looking for more diamonds?    Follow AJ on Instagram and X. Share the diamonds you received from this episode by leaving a rating and a review!     Dropping Diamonds with AJ Andrews is in partnership with the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.