Swing Smarter Hitting Training Podcast | ⭐Hitting Performance Lab⭐

If you’ve been told “swing faster” all weekend and still watched weak contact in games, this episode flips the script. Joey breaks down why pitch recognition and decision-making—not just bat speed—unlock game-day power. You’ll learn simple vision cues to pick up spin earlier, a Green/Yellow/Red decision framework any youth hitter can use, and a 5-minute practice block that blends recognition with swing intent so your athlete isn’t just fast in the cage—they’re dangerous in the box. What You’ll Learn (Fast, Transferable, Parent-Friendly) Bat Speed ≠ Exit Velocity: Why bat speed is potential energy—and why collision quality, timing, and sweet-spot contact turn it into loud barrels on game day. See-Decide-Swing Framework: Three short rounds that wire the brain for earlier reads, better swing decisions, and confident contact under pressure. Green / Yellow / Red Approach: Teach “green swings, yellow manage, red take” to reduce chase, win counts, and raise Quality-Contact %. Heavy-Light-Game Progression: Pair recognition training with quick posture-safe bat progressions for gains that show up in games. 3 Metrics That Predict Improvement: Track Quality-Contact %, Pitch-Selection Success, and Competitive ABs in under a minute—no gadgets required. Actionable Drills & Tools Occlusion Training (Video Cut-Off Reads): Short sessions that force earlier spin/release reads to build “visual confidence.” Use at home on a phone or tablet. See-Decide-Swing (10 minutes): See it—call ball/strike or color without swinging. Decide it—prepare only on strikes. Swing it—score swings on decision quality + contact. Heavy-Light-Game (5 minutes): Heavy bat for control/posture, light bat for quickness, game bat to integrate—and then score Quality-Contact %. Mindset that Travels to the Box Train the read, not just the move. Under pressure the brain defaults to what it trusts—build trust in recognition and decisions first. A simple cue set—“See it early, name it fast,” “Green swings,” “Compete with two”—keeps hitters calm and effective when the lights come on. If your hitter looks like a BP hero but guesses in games, this episode is your new game plan. Subscribe, leave a quick review, and share with a coach or parent who needs a calmer, smarter path to hard contact. For drill libraries, 5–7 minute practice blocks, and programs built for busy families, visit HittingPerformanceLab.com.

Parents are seeing “sledgehammer swings” and ultra-light bat hacks all over social—and wondering if they help or hurt. In this episode, Joey breaks down exactly how to use weighted and underload bats safely for youth hitters so practice power actually shows up under the lights. You’ll get the 10–15% rule, the Heavy-Light-Game progression, quick readiness checks (head still, spine neutral, barrel awareness), and the “feel before force” principle that turns chaos into clear, repeatable gains. What You’ll Learn (Fast) Bat speed vs. collision quality: Why chasing a bat-speed screenshot can sabotage exit velocity—and what to train instead. The 10–15% window: How far to go heavier/lighter than the game bat to drive adaptation without wrecking mechanics. Heavy-Light-Game (HLG) mini-block: A 5–10 minute session that improves in-game exit velocity, not just cage numbers. Feel before force: How to coach coil-to-uncoil sequencing, posture, and head control so the body transfers energy cleanly to the ball. Sweet-spot widening: Use lead-arm leverage and posture to keep the barrel in-zone longer for louder, repeatable barrels. Parent-proof tracking: Three simple metrics that beat batting average for predicting progress: Quality-Contact % (loud line drives/well-struck balls per 10 swings) Pitch-Selection Success (“green swings, yellow manage, red take”) Competitive At-Bats (C-ABs) (extend counts, battle with two, punish mistakes) Rapid Implementation Guide Pick weights wisely: Stay within ±10–15% of the game bat. Example: 30-oz game bat → ~33–34-oz overload, ~26–27-oz underload. Run HLG for 2–3 rounds: Heavy x5 — maintain posture, coil-to-uncoil, chin steady. Light x5 — quick hands, same body angles. Game x5 — log Quality-Contact % and note feel cues. Readiness checks each session: Head still, spine neutral (no low-back arch), eyes level, barrel awareness on point. If mechanics leak, stop and reset. Why This Matters Now Social feeds are loaded with extreme bat-weight tricks and one-rep-max bravado. This episode cuts through the noise with youth-safe, mechanics-first guidelines that build real, game-transferable power—not just viral clips. Parents get clarity; hitters get louder barrels without risking injury. Resources Mentioned Swing Shift — 5–7 minute “done-for-you” practice blocks that stack posture, lead-arm leverage, and decision reps. RocketHitting Formula — A step-by-step plan with overload/underload guidelines, HLG sessions, and simple tracking in short, repeatable routines. If this helped you make sense of weighted bats and “feel before force,” follow/subscribe and share the episode with a coach or parent who needs a calmer, smarter plan. Then visit HittingPerformanceLab.com for programs, tools, and free resources that turn short practices into game-day power—and start logging Quality-Contact %, Pitch-Selection Success, and C-ABs tonight.

Parents hear “swing faster” and chase bat-speed leaderboards—then wonder why games still produce weak contact. In this episode, we unpack the real difference between bat speed and ball exit speed, why a light bat can inflate one but not the other, and the precise training switches that convert practice swings into loud, repeatable contact. You’ll get clear, science-backed fixes—no jargon—built for busy families who want results that show up under the lights. What You’ll Learn (and Use Tonight) Bat Speed vs. Exit Velocity—what actually matters in games Why a faster swing with a tee-ball or wiffle bat doesn’t equal higher exit velo with a game bat How to stop chasing screenshots and train for on-field hard contact The Catapult Loading System (spinal engine) in plain English Load–unload patterns that create real force transfer Posture that holds power (no head roll, no hyper-extended low back) Lead-Arm Leverage at Contact How a longer front arm extends the impact window and boosts collision efficiency Overload/Underload Bat Training—done right Simple sequencing to build strength + quickness without wrecking barrel control The “Michelangelo approach”: chip away inefficiencies until the loud barrel emerges Metrics that predict progress (not just pretty numbers) Quality-Contact %, Pitch-Selection Success, and Competitive ABs How to track them in 60 seconds—no gadgets required A 5-Minute Exit-Velo Booster Heavy x5 (stay connected, hold posture) → light x5 (quickness) → game bat x5 (score quality contact) Why This Matters Now Showcases and social feeds push bat-speed races, but coaches value consistent game contact, not lab sizzle. This episode gives parents and coaches a calm, repeatable blueprint to train what transfers: efficient mechanics, better decisions, and reliable collision quality. Resources & Next Steps Programs & Tools: Step-by-step systems for 5–7 minute practices, parent-friendly cues, and trackable progress at HittingPerformanceLab.com Swing Shift: Daily micro-blocks that build quality contact, pitch recognition, and two-strike compete (ideal for busy families) Detect & Correct Hitting Blueprint: Identify the exact leak stealing exit velo and fix it with at-home checks + smart sequencing If this episode gave you a clearer plan for turning bat speed into real exit velocity, follow/subscribe so you never miss a training breakdown. Drop a quick rating or one-line review—it helps other baseball and softball families find the show. Share this with your team chat, and visit https://hittingperformancelab.com/  for programs, drills, and tools that turn practice swings into confident, game-ready contact.

When a young hitter goes from BP hero to game-day ghost, the issue usually isn’t mechanics—it’s how we frame failure. In this episode, Joey Myers shows parents and coaches how to turn strikeouts and whiffs into learning fuel using progressive failure exposure, a five-minute Three-Miss Challenge, and three simple metrics that actually predict improvement—so cage swings finally show up under the lights. What You’ll Learn The hidden pressure loop: Why “fix-it” coaching after misses backfires and how to protect confidence without coddling. Progressive failure exposure: Treat misses like strength training for confidence—each failure becomes data, not drama. Ditch batting average as the compass: Track Quality-Contact %, Pitch-Selection Success, and Competitive At-Bats to measure real development. Two-strike compete framework: Reframe “don’t strike out” into “win the battle”—extend counts, fight off pitches, punish mistakes. Parent language that lowers stress: Short cues for the sideline and the one-word car-ride check-in that replaces postgame lectures. The 5-minute drill you can run tonight: The Three-Miss Challenge to normalize failure and free the swing. Real-world example: How a 10U hitter shed two-strike fear and found better contact once results stopped being the identity. Why This Matters Now Youth seasons are short, emotions run hot, and batting average swings wildly. Teaching kids to tolerate and learn from failure builds resilience, clearer decisions, and contact that shows up when it counts—today and long-term. Quick Start: Run This Tonight Three-Miss Challenge (5 min): Ask your hitter to “collect” 3 misses on tee or front toss. Celebrate each miss, log a quick feel note, reset. Watch tension drop and quality contact rise. Track 3 numbers for two weeks: Quality-Contact % (squared balls with playable trajectory) Pitch-Selection Success (green swings, yellow manage) Competitive ABs (extend, fight, move runners) Featured HPL Resources Swing Shift – 5–7 minute sessions that train progressive failure exposure, pitch decisions, and two-strike compete with pressure-free parent language. RocketHitting Formula – Short, repeatable game-sim sessions that turn process metrics into hard contact under the lights. If this episode helped you reframe failure and cut the postgame stress, follow/subscribe and share it with a fellow parent or your staff. For step-by-step drills, scorecards, and ready-to-run practice blocks, visit HittingPerformanceLab.com. Keep showing up, keep learning, and keep swinging smarter.

Most parents and coaches mean well. But could our constant tips, sideline shouts, and postgame breakdowns actually be draining our kids’ confidence instead of building it? In this powerful episode of the Swing Smarter Hitting Training Podcast, I dig into the hidden ways we create pressure for young hitters—and what to do differently so they thrive. Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode: The unseen pressure problem: Why “helpful” coaching often backfires and silently taxes confidence. The 70% dropout crisis: Why so many kids leave sports by 13 and how to keep your athlete’s love for the game alive. Real-world examples: From players who freeze at the plate to families who transformed game-day stress into confidence. Psychology that works: Insights from experts like Dr. Bhrett McCabe, Carol Dweck, and Ken Ravizza on building resilient athletes. Simple fixes you can use now: The one-word car ride that replaces postgame lectures. How to praise process over outcomes. Metrics that matter more than batting average: Quality Contact %, Pitch Selection, and Competitive At-Bats. This episode is packed with actionable strategies that help parents and coaches shift from control to support—so hitters walk to the plate with calm focus, compete with confidence, and keep loving the game. If you’re ready to protect your athlete’s confidence and help them grow into not just better hitters, but stronger competitors, this one’s for you. 👉 Subscribe to the show, share it with a fellow parent or coach, and explore more step-by-step resources at HittingPerformanceLab.com

Every parent has seen it: your kid smashes balls in batting practice, but when game day comes, the results don’t match. It’s frustrating, confusing, and often leads to over-tweaking swings or second-guessing effort. The truth? Many times, the problem isn’t mechanics—it’s vision. In this episode of the Swing Smarter Hitting Training Podcast, Joey Myers reveals why sharpening how your athlete sees the ball may be the missing piece to unlocking game-day confidence and consistent results. Key Insights & Takeaways The Hidden Culprit Behind Inconsistency: Why hitters can look unstoppable in practice but struggle against live pitching. The Science of Seeing the Ball: Depth perception, pitch recognition, and processing speed all play huge roles in hitting success. Parent-Friendly Warning Signs: Trouble with off-speed pitches, late swings, or chasing balls just outside the zone could point to vision issues. Real-World Example: How youth players have turned around their game performance by focusing on vision and decision-making rather than just mechanics. Actionable Vision Drills: Simple, at-home activities like focus-sharpening and colored-ball recognition games that improve timing and pitch selection in just a few minutes a day. The Confidence Connection: Teaching kids to control what they can—approach, decisions, and focus—while letting go of outcomes builds resilience at the plate. If you’re tired of watching your athlete dominate in practice but struggle on game day, this episode will help bridge that gap. 🎧 Listen now to learn how vision training can unlock consistent hard contact, smarter pitch selection, and a calmer, more confident approach. 👉 Subscribe to the Swing Smarter Hitting Training Podcast so you never miss an episode. 👉 Share this episode with a parent or coach who’s searching for answers. 👉 Explore more proven drills, training systems, and resources at HittingPerformanceLab.com

Is your kid’s batting average telling the truth—or just messing with your head? In this episode of the Swing Smarter Hitting Training Podcast, I break down why batting average is one of the most misleading stats in youth baseball and softball… and what to track instead if you actually want to see progress. As a former Division I Fresno State ballplayer, author of the Amazon bestseller The Catapult Loading System, and founder of HittingPerformanceLab.com, I’ve seen too many hitters judged on the wrong numbers. Today, we’re flipping the script and focusing on quality contact, smart pitch selection, and competitive at-bats—the metrics that truly measure growth. You’ll discover: The hidden flaws of batting average and how it can hurt a young hitter’s development. Three powerful alternative metrics that give a complete picture of progress without expensive tech. The two-zone tee game drill to instantly improve pitch recognition and decision-making. How to protect your hitter’s confidence while building timing, approach, and consistency. A real-life success story showing how a “low average” hitter was actually making huge strides at the plate. Whether you’re a coach, parent, or player, this episode gives you a science-backed framework to track what really matters—so you can stop stressing over numbers that don’t tell the whole story and start seeing results that last. If you’re ready to move beyond outdated stats and build a better hitter, check out my Swing Shift program—a daily, bite-sized video series packed with drills and clear cues you can use immediately. Visit HittingPerformanceLab.com/SwingShift to get started. 🎧 Listen now, subscribe, and share this episode with a coach or parent who’s still chasing batting average. Let’s help more young athletes swing smarter, not just harder.

Is your kid falling behind in the power department? You’re not alone—and you're not doing anything wrong. In this eye-opening solo episode, Joey Myers—founder of HittingPerformanceLab.com—tackles one of the most common (and frustrating) questions from baseball and softball parents: “Why can every other kid hit bombs... but mine can’t?” If you’ve ever felt the sting of comparison on the travel ball circuit or caught yourself worrying about your hitter’s lack of home run power, this episode will shift both your mindset and your mechanics. 🎧 What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why power hitting isn’t a pass/fail test—but a developmental timeline The 3 core pillars of sustainable power hitting: biomechanics, physical maturity, and intentional training The dark side of social media: how bat speed envy is creating unrealistic expectations How top-hand connection and movement efficiency impact exit velocity more than brute strength The difference between early bloomers and long-term success stories A practical 5-minute drill (the Heavy Bat Bounce Drill) that builds precision and explosiveness from the ground up Why Dr. Carol Dweck’s growth mindset and Stoic philosophy apply more than ever in today’s youth baseball world Whether you're a coach, a parent, or both, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you stop comparing and start building the kind of hitter who develops power the right way—on their own timeline. 🔗 Mentioned in the Episode: ✅ Swing Shift Daily Video Program Transform your hitter’s performance in just 5 minutes a day. No over-coaching. No fluff. 👉 https://hittingperformancelab.com/swingshift ✅ AI for Youth Athlete Parents & Coaches – Basic Course Use AI to create smarter practice plans, track progress, and eliminate guesswork. 🎁 Use discount code AICOURSEPODCAST to get $20 OFF 👉 https://hittingperformancelab.com/AICourse 🙌 Enjoyed the episode? Tap Follow so you never miss a future insight Leave a quick review to help others discover the show Share this episode with a coach or sports parent who needs to hear it For more drills, resources, and no-fluff hitting instruction, visit: 🌐 https://hittingperformancelab.com

Is My Support Hurting or Helping? Fix the Pressure Trap in Youth Sports Before It Breaks Your Kid’s Love for the Game You’re cheering from the bleachers… but deep down, you’re wondering—am I doing more harm than good? In today’s powerful solo episode of the Swing Smarter Hitting Training Podcast, Joey Myers gets real about one of the most pressing questions in youth baseball and softball: “Am I putting too much pressure on my young athlete?” With today’s social media obsession and year-round travel ball grind, the line between support and stress is razor-thin—and many parents don’t even realize they’ve crossed it. Joey doesn’t just talk theory. He shares candid personal stories, expert-backed strategies, and practical tools that help you shift from pressure to partnership—so your child performs with confidence, not fear. 🔍 In This Episode, You’ll Discover: Why silent pressure (a sigh, a look) can crush your athlete more than yelling from the stands The 3-part confidence-building framework Joey uses with his own son to encourage ownership, not over-coaching The “Reverse Feedback Loop” drill that flips postgame talks into self-reflective learning Insights from Dr. Bhrett McCabe & Dr. Carol Dweck on pressure, motivation, and growth mindset The 24-hour rule for postgame feedback that every parent needs to implement A fresh mindset that redefines success—not by stats, but by self-worth 🎯 Ideal for Parents & Coaches Who: Worry they might be pushing too hard (or not hard enough) Want to build trust with their athlete, not tension Are tired of stats-driven parenting and ready for a new approach Believe success should be measured in more than batting averages If this episode made you stop and think, imagine what swing-shifting your training could do. Visit HittingPerformanceLab.com to explore science-backed programs, daily 5-minute episodes, and the AI for Youth Sports Parents & Coaches Course—your go-to tool to take the pressure off while still raising confident, high-performing hitters. 💥 Use code AICOURSEPODCAST for $20 OFF the AI course now: 👉 https://hittingperformancelab.com/AICourse ✅ Subscribe. 🗣️ Leave a review. 🔗 Share this episode with someone walking that same fine line between support and stress. Let’s raise athletes who love the game—and themselves—no matter what the scoreboard says.

Is your young athlete flinching, freezing, or backing out of the batter’s box? You’re not alone—and this episode is here to help. In today’s episode of the Swing Smarter Hitting Training Podcast, Joey Myers dives headfirst into one of the most common (and least understood) roadblocks in youth baseball and softball: the fear of getting hit by a pitch. And this isn’t just a “toughen up” pep talk. Instead, Joey blends sports psychology, biomechanics, and real-world drills to help parents and coaches support young hitters through fear—with clarity, compassion, and science-backed strategy. Whether your kid dominates in practice but disappears on game day, or you’re just tired of watching talent get hijacked by fear, this is the episode you need. 🔑 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why fear of the ball is NOT a weakness—it's a survival response from the brain (and how to reframe it) The top mistakes coaches and parents make when trying to “push through” fear—and what to do instead How to build confidence through a proven 4-step controlled exposure system using soft toss, foam balls, tennis balls, and live reps Vision training tips like the “Hard Focus vs Soft Focus” drill to lock in better pitch tracking and reduce flinching Sports psychologist Dr. Bhrett McCabe’s take: “Fear is just information”—and how to use it to build your athlete’s confidence Real-world success story: how one hitter went from flinching at every pitch to owning the inside corner in just 2 weeks Practical, repeatable drills like the Glove Arm Block Drill to rewire nervous system responses and develop composure under pressure If this episode struck a chord—and you’re ready to help your hitter flip fear into focus—then take the next step: 🎯 Visit https://hittingperformancelab.com to access free hitting tips, game-day tools, and breakthrough training programs like Swing Shift, our daily 5-minute hitting system designed to build confidence, mechanics, and timing from the ground up. 👉 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with another baseball or softball parent who’s navigating the same fears with their athlete. Your kid’s next confident swing could start with this episode. Until next time: Keep it smart. Keep it simple. And keep swinging. ⚾

Your kid’s in a slump—and it’s not just about their swing. In this powerful episode of the Swing Smarter Hitting Training Podcast, host Joey Myers tackles one of the most emotional and misunderstood challenges in youth baseball and softball: hitting slumps. Whether your child is striking out looking, refusing to practice, or questioning if they’re even good anymore, this episode breaks down exactly what’s really going on—and how to help without making it worse. You’ll hear the story of Eli, a 10-year-old lefty who went from all-star to 0-for-13 practically overnight. But the fix didn’t come from video analysis or mechanical tweaks. It came from a mindset shift—and a game-changing framework Joey calls the Slump Reset. In this episode, you’ll discover: ✅ Why most slump “fixes” from well-meaning parents backfire ✅ A better way to frame slumps for your child (and yourself) ✅ Insights from sports psychologists like Dr. Bhrett McCabe and Dr. Ken Ravizza ✅ The Slump Reset framework: a 3-step plan you can start using tonight ✅ The “Win One Pitch” drill that builds emotional resilience pitch by pitch ✅ Why separating identity from performance is critical for youth athletes ✅ How to praise effort, not just outcomes—and why it matters ✅ A powerful quote from Dr. McCabe: “Confidence isn’t built in performance. It’s revealed there.” Whether you’re a parent, coach, or a mentor in the dugout, this episode gives you the mindset tools, emotional strategies, and practical drills to help your hitter bounce back stronger—and love the game again. 🎧 Listen if your child: Feels defeated at the plate Wants to quit or avoids practice Ties their self-worth to their batting average Needs a reset—not just another swing tweak 🔗 Resources & Mentions in This Episode: 🎯 Swing Shift – Daily Video Program for Busy Parents: 5-minute episodes, 5 days a week—actionable tips, drills, and mental skills to build confident, powerful hitters. 🤖 AI for Youth Sports Course: Learn how to use AI to draft smarter lineups, design practice plans in seconds, and communicate like a sports psychology pro. Download the Slump Survival Guide by Clicking Here. Like what you heard? Subscribe so you never miss an episode. Leave a quick review—every star helps another parent or coach discover smarter hitting solutions. Know someone going through a slump? Share this episode—it could change a season. 👉 For free drills, video breakdowns, and parent-friendly tools, visit HittingPerformanceLab.com

📘 Podcast Show Notes: Are you stressing over your young hitter’s mechanics too soon? In this powerful episode of the Swing Smarter Hitting Training Podcast, we dive headfirst into one of the most pressing questions parents ask: “Is my 8-year-old too young to focus on swing mechanics?” If you’ve ever watched your child freeze at the plate or second-guessed whether they’re falling behind, this conversation is your game plan for peace of mind. Backed by youth performance research and real-world examples, this episode challenges the early obsession with "perfect swings"—and instead offers a refreshing, science-based approach to nurturing confidence, coordination, and timing through play, not pressure. 🔑 In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Why early over-coaching on mechanics may hurt more than help What sports science and experts like Dr. Carol Dweck say about early skill development How MLB players benefited from multi-sport backgrounds—and why your child should too The Tap & Turn Drill: A fun, effective practice tool that teaches rhythm, timing, and balance When it’s actually the right time to introduce hitting lessons or technical instruction How to create a growth-rich environment that keeps your child loving the game 🎯 Why This Episode Matters: Perfect for busy baseball or softball parents, this episode equips you with the mindset and tools to support your young hitter without overwhelming them. You’ll walk away knowing exactly when—and how—to focus on mechanics the right way, backed by science and real coaching experience. 📍 Ready to Go Deeper? 👉 Check out the Swing Shift daily video series for 3–5 minute drills, tips, and mindset tools tailored to youth hitters. 👉 Looking to assess and improve mechanics without killing confidence? Grab the Detect & Correct Hitting Blueprint — now 50% OFF! 🎧 Subscribe. Review. Share. Help us keep this momentum going by subscribing to the podcast, leaving a quick review, and sending this episode to a fellow parent or coach who needs it. We appreciate you being here. Let’s keep our kids swinging smarter—not just harder.

What does it take to steal 415 bases in the big leagues and raise a confident youth athlete today? In this power-packed episode, we sit down with former MLB outfielder Rajai Davis, best known for his iconic home run in Game 7 of the 2016 World Series, blazing speed, and relentless work ethic. But this conversation goes deeper than just baseball stats… Rajai opens up about coaching his 10-year-old son, how he personally used the Catapult Loading System to boost his power, and why he's a big believer in WeckMethod’s balance and movement training. You'll also hear why Rajai believes longevity and elite performance come down to body awareness, daily routines, and staying mentally sharp. Whether you're a baseball coach, softball parent, or a young athlete hungry to get better, this episode is packed with actionable gems that’ll help you train smarter—not just harder. 🔑 Key Highlights: 🎯 Power Through Efficiency: How Rajai used the Catapult Loading System to improve his launch and power late in his career. ⚡ Speed Secrets Revealed: Rajai shares his mindset on stealing bases, and how youth athletes can train reaction time and confidence. 🧠 Mentally Tough Athletes: Why coaching your own child requires humility, and how Rajai’s mindset evolved through fatherhood. 🧘‍♂️ The WeckMethod Edge: How tools like the BOSU Elite and RMT Rope help improve balance, coordination, and reaction under pressure. 🔁 From MLB to Little League: The biggest lessons Rajai brings from the pros to coaching young kids in today’s game. 🧬 Movement = Longevity: Why Rajai is now focused on sharing performance-enhancing systems like Isophit to help others move better for life. Like what you heard? 👉 Subscribe now to the Swing Smarter Hitting Training Podcast for more science-backed insights from MLB legends and elite coaches. 🎧 Listen to this episode and explore Rajai’s recommended tools at: Isophit.com RaiseYourSpeed.com 💬 Don’t forget to share this episode, leave a review, and visit HittingPerformanceLab.com for daily tips, training tools, and performance breakthroughs designed for today’s serious baseball and softball families.

What if your child’s throwing arm wasn’t just protected—but also powered up with every rep? In this inspiring episode of the Swing Smarter Hitting Training Podcast, we’re joined by Alan Jaeger of Jaeger Sports—renowned mental performance coach and creator of the world-famous J-Bands. This conversation goes far beyond warm-ups—diving into the mental, emotional, and physical strategies that elevate youth athletes into confident, resilient performers on and off the field. Alan shares battle-tested insights from decades of working with MLB players, elite college programs, and youth athletes, delivering simple yet powerful techniques every parent, coach, or athlete can implement immediately. 🔑 What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why long toss is misunderstood—and how to do it right to increase velocity and arm health The mental game secret MLB players use to stay grounded and confident How J-Bands are more than a warm-up tool—they're the foundation of a sustainable arm care program The connection between breathwork, routine, and peak performance Simple ways parents can support their athlete’s emotional well-being (without overcoaching) Why consistency, not intensity, wins in youth development—and how to implement it 🔥 Whether you're a coach managing a team, a parent supporting your player, or an athlete looking to break through a plateau, this episode is packed with practical gold. 👉 Listen now and explore more tools like Alan’s J-Bands and our Swing Shift hitting series at HittingPerformanceLab.com. 🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave us a review, and share this episode with your baseball or softball community!

Is your child crushing it in practice but crumbling at the plate during games? You’re not alone—and you’re not crazy. In this episode of the Swing Smarter Hitting Training Podcast, host Joey Myers from HittingPerformanceLab.com pulls back the curtain on a question that’s burning up Reddit threads, Facebook parent groups, and Twitter/X feeds: Are hitting lessons actually worth it—or are they just burning a hole in your wallet? Drawing from both coaching and parent perspectives, Joey unpacks three hidden truths most instructors never talk about. Whether you’re investing $60 a week in private hitting sessions or managing lessons on a budget, this episode breaks down exactly what you need to know to get real results from your investment. You’ll discover: 🎯 Why the real magic happens between lessons—not during them 🚩 How to spot red flags in a hitting coach’s approach 🧠 The mental shift needed to move from cage all-star to game-day performer 💡 A simple ROI checklist to measure whether your current lessons are working 🔁 Dr. Bhrett McCabe’s “contextual interference” concept—and how it improves game transfer 🛠️ Why ONE drill done daily is better than TEN done sporadically And the best part? Joey shares exactly what busy parents can do at home to make hitting lessons stick—no expensive tools required. 🔥 Ready to transform your child from a practice hero to a confident, clutch hitter on game day? Check out Swing Shift—a daily system of 3–5 minute drills and mindset builders designed to bridge the gap between lessons and live-game performance. If today’s episode hit home, don’t keep it to yourself. ➡️ Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with another parent or coach who wants real results—not just reps. 🎯 Want personalized feedback for your young hitter? Visit https://hittingperformancelab.com/onlinelessons to learn more about The Feedback Lab—your at-home solution to game-ready swing development. #youthbaseball #softballtraining #hittinglessons #baseballparents #swingmechanics #mentalgamebaseball #baseballcoaching #swingshiftprogram #cageallstar #gametimeperformance #hittingcoach

🔥 Why This Episode Matters You’ve seen it: your young hitter steps into the box, takes two strikes without swinging, and walks back to the dugout with their head down. It’s not just a mechanical issue — it’s a confidence crisis. In this solo episode of the Swing Smarter Hitting Training Podcast, we unpack the three sneaky confidence killers sabotaging youth athletes — and how to fix them with simple, science-backed strategies. If your athlete is freezing up, second-guessing their swing, or saying they don’t want to play anymore, this one’s a must-listen. Whether you’re a coach trying to inspire consistent at-bats or a parent searching for ways to support your child without overstepping, you’ll walk away with practical tools to help your hitter feel calm, confident, and in control at the plate. 🧠 What You’ll Learn in This Episode ⚾ Why perfectionism quietly drains performance — and how to reframe failure as growth 🔁 The “3-to-1 Rule” for parents: a better way to give feedback without crushing confidence 🧠 The mental power of pre-at-bat routines to reduce overthinking and build ownership 📈 How to implement the “Confidence Loop” — a 10-minute twice-weekly mindset drill 🎯 Why building confidence isn’t about hype — it’s about structure, repetition, and reflection 🧰 Mentioned in This Episode 👉 Swing Shift Daily Hitting Program – Simple, structured training designed to sharpen timing and boost confidence in just minutes a day 👉 AI for Youth Sports Course – Done-for-you parent templates, custom practice plans, and tools to eliminate confusion and unlock consistent performance If your hitter has ever come home frustrated, frozen, or ready to quit, this episode offers a path forward — one backed by psychology, routine, and compassion. 💬 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a fellow coach or parent who wants to raise a smarter, stronger, more confident athlete. Let’s keep building hitters who believe in themselves — one focused swing at a time.

Is your kid’s swing getting hijacked by too many voices? In this episode of the Swing Smarter Hitting Training Podcast, we tackle one of the most common and frustrating issues in youth baseball and softball: swing confusion caused by conflicting coaching advice. From “hands high” to “barrel drop,” young hitters are being pulled in every direction — and it’s killing their confidence. 🎯 But there’s a better way: the One Swing, One Cue framework. This simple, repeatable method helps athletes find clarity, develop rhythm, and build a swing they actually own — not one cobbled together from every coach they’ve ever met. Whether you’re a parent tired of watching your child overthink at the plate or a coach juggling a dugout full of mixed mechanics, this episode delivers a step-by-step strategy to develop consistency, timing, and self-trust in your hitter’s approach. 🔍 What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why inconsistent coaching input causes “analysis paralysis” at the plate The top 3 questions every parent or coach should ask before changing a swing How to apply the One Swing, One Cue method for long-term success Real-world example: How one 11-year-old turned his season around by simplifying Why mental clarity and mechanical ownership matter more than chasing perfection How to document swing progress with journals and video for better feedback loops A preview of the AI for Youth Sports Course that makes development easier than ever 🎯 Resources Mentioned ✅ AI for Youth Sports Course – HittingPerformanceLab.com/AICourse ✅ Swing Shift Daily Hitting System Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, share, and leave a review — it helps more parents and coaches discover how to simplify swing development and bring joy back to the game. 💬 Got a question or breakthrough to share? Drop us a message at HittingPerformanceLab.com. Let’s keep raising smarter, stronger, more confident athletes — one swing at a time.

Ever wonder why your child crushes BP but freezes during games? You’re not alone—and in this powerful episode of the Swing Smarter Hitting Training Podcast, we tackle one of the biggest frustrations in youth baseball and softball today: the practice-to-game disconnect. Host Joey Myers unpacks the neuroscience, training design flaws, and emotional triggers that sabotage performance under pressure. If your athlete looks like an All-Star in the cage but struggles when it counts, this episode is your game-day blueprint. 💥 Key Takeaways: Why traditional batting practice creates false confidence. Controlled reps can’t prepare hitters for the unpredictability of live pitching. How pressure hijacks your athlete’s mechanics. Neuroscience shows stress disrupts learned motor patterns—rigid swings, late reactions, frozen feet. What top experts say about performance under pressure. Dr. Bhrett McCabe: “Stress reveals the truth, not skill.” Game success demands chaos-ready training. The secret: Train the chaos. Simulate live-game pressure with variable pitch sequences, competitive scenarios, and meaningful consequences. Power drill: “One-Two Count Battle.” Start hitters with a 1–2 count, mix speeds, allow foul-ball extensions, and reward contact. Add crowd noise or peer pressure for realism. Real-world model: Freddie Freeman. His rhythmic, instinctive swing shows how fluidity—not rigid thinking—wins at the plate. Bonus insight: Learn how the V-Flex Strike Detection System rewires pitch recognition, giving hitters an elite edge in game-time decision making. 🔗 Mentioned Resources: Swing Shift: Daily Hitting System V-Flex Strike Recognition Tool Rotex Motion for Mobility If this episode hit home, don’t keep it to yourself. ➡️ Share it with a fellow sports parent or coach. ✅ Subscribe to the Swing Smarter Hitting Training Podcast for weekly science-backed hitting strategies. 🎯 Explore all our youth training tools at HittingPerformanceLab.com Because when your athlete trains the chaos—they win the clutch.

Is year-round baseball holding your young hitter back? In this game-changing episode of the Swing Smarter Hitting Training Podcast, Joey Myers challenges the conventional wisdom of early specialization in youth sports—especially baseball and softball. Drawing on neuroscience, biomechanics, real-world examples, and expert insights from giants like Dr. James Andrews and Dr. Gio Valiante, Joey lays out the powerful case for multi-sport participation. If your child has been burning out, underperforming, or losing joy at the plate, this episode offers a refreshing—and science-backed—solution. You’ll learn why athletes who play multiple sports develop superior movement skills, recover faster, and perform better under pressure. Here’s what you’ll discover in today’s episode: ✅ Why early specialization may be doing more harm than good → From injury risk to burnout, Joey breaks down the dangers of overtraining in a single sport. ✅ How multi-sport athletes develop elite-level adaptability and athletic IQ → Hear how different movement patterns wire the brain for faster reaction times and better rhythm. ✅ The Ryan Story: A rigid hitter becomes fluid after a two-month break → A real-life case study of how a young athlete rediscovered performance—and joy—after switching things up. ✅ The 90-Day Off-Ramp Framework to diversify your athlete’s development → Step-by-step transition plan to ease out of single-sport overload without losing skill. ✅ The Shuffle Drill: A fun way to build body control across sports → Learn how a simple 3-cone triangle drill can build movement versatility and agility. ✅ How to complement multi-sport training with the Swing Shift System → Discover how 3–5 minute daily lessons can maintain hitting skills without burnout, stress, or over-coaching. If this episode opened your eyes to the power of athletic diversity, be sure to: 👉 Subscribe to the Swing Smarter Hitting Training Podcast 👉 Visit HittingPerformanceLab.com for daily drills and tools 👉 Check out the Swing Shift Daily Hitting System – It’s perfect for busy athletes balancing multiple sports.

📘 Podcast Show Notes: Is your young hitter stiff, overthinking, or just plain stuck at the plate? You’re not alone—and this episode could change the way you coach forever. In this game-changing episode of the Swing Smarter Hitting Training Podcast, host Joey Myers dives deep into the performance-killing myth of mechanical perfection. What’s really keeping young hitters from unlocking their power and confidence at the plate? It’s not more swing cues or elbow angles—it’s rhythm. Drawing insights from performance psychologist Dr. Gio Valiante and pairing it with MLB examples like Freddie Freeman, Joey explains how restoring a hitter’s natural flow can eliminate stiffness, improve timing, and help players trust their swing again—especially under pressure. Whether you’re a parent frustrated by paralysis-by-analysis or a coach watching hitters fall apart in games despite textbook drills, this episode delivers a new lens on player development—and one you can act on this week. 🔍 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The hidden costs of mechanical overload in youth hitting instruction Why rhythm outperforms perfect form in game-time situations Real-world breakdowns of MLB hitters like Freddie Freeman who prioritize tempo over technique The “Rhythm Reset Drill” — a simple, music-backed movement routine to loosen up youth hitters and restore their natural swing How to spot signs of rhythm breakdown (and what to do when your player looks great in the field but robotic in the box) A performance mindset shift: “Great athletes feel their way into rhythm,” says Dr. Valiante 🧠 Why It Matters for Parents & Coaches: If your child is overthinking at the plate, freezing after two strikes, or tensing up under pressure, the solution may not be another mechanical tweak. This episode will help you understand how rhythm—and not technical perfection—is the unlock your hitter’s been missing. 💥 Don’t let your athlete’s swing get trapped in the cage of mechanics. 🌐 For bonus drills, tools, and expert coaching, visit HittingPerformanceLab.com.