Advertise on podcast: Coaches Corner Podcast

Host Walter Beede sits down with newly named Merrimack College head baseball coach Jeff Mejia on this edition of Coach's Corner, presented by Corvive — use code BLUEBOOK at checkout for 30% off your first order. Coach Mejia looks back on 13 years building Northern Essex into a Division III JUCO powerhouse — more than ten trips to the JUCO World Series and a national runner-up finish — and shares the honest, sometimes hard conversations he had with players and families about where they truly fit in college baseball. He also opens up as a father, reflecting on his own son Jeffrey's path from a Division I commitment to a bump in the road, a reset at Northern Essex, and ultimately a standout career at UMaine — a real-world look at how the JUCO route can reshape a player's trajectory rather than end it. Coach Mejia dives into what he's building now at Merrimack: a staff of proven evaluators and honest communicators, why he'd rather see recruiting dollars go toward a strength coach than another hitting lesson, and why surrounding yourself with people who tell you the truth — not what you want to hear — is the single best piece of advice for any student-athlete. He closes with details on Merrimack's September 6th prospect camp and why families from outside the Northeast should make the trip to see the campus for themselves. A must-listen for any baseball family navigating the JUCO decision, weighing Division I fit, or looking for a coach who will always give it to them straight. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Walter Beede sits down with Ben Fairchild, founder of Fairchild Sports Performance in Greater Houston and one of the country's top strength coaches for youth, high school, college, and professional athletes, on this edition of Coach's Corner, presented by Corvive — use code BLUEBOOK at checkout for 30% off your first order — and brought to you by Bluebook Media Group and Bluebook Sports. Ben pulls back the curtain on what actually happens when a thirteen or fourteen-year-old walks into Fairchild Sports Performance — and why what the parent thinks their kid needs and what the athlete actually needs are almost never the same thing. He breaks down why posture and mobility always come before velocity and exit velocity, why piling fitness on top of dysfunction cements long-term problems rather than solving them, and why the twelve-to-sixteen window is one of the last truly malleable stages of neurological development an athlete will ever have. Ben and Walter also dig into the danger of over-competing at young ages, the underrated mentoring dynamic of training alongside older athletes, and why the most important question Ben ever asks a parent isn't "are they working hard?" — it's "do they love coming back?" A must-listen for any baseball or softball family with a young athlete and a strength training decision to make. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Walter Beede sits down with two extraordinary baseball dads and coaches for a special Father's Day edition of Coach's Corner, presented by Corvive — use code BLUEBOOK at checkout for 30% off your first order — and brought to you by Bluebook Media Group and Bluebook Sports. Andy Bednar, head coach at Mars High School in Pennsylvania and father of Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher David Bednar and minor leaguer Will Bednar, joins Kevin Griffin, Division III head coach at Belhaven University and father of Pirates shortstop Konnor Griffin, for one of the most candid and practical conversations for baseball families you'll ever hear. All three men share what it was really like coaching and raising sons who made it to professional baseball — the dual roles, the grumblings in the stands, the injuries, the draft, the minor league grind, and the moments that made it all worth it. They tackle the myths head-on: why baseball doesn't need to be a twelve-month sport, why multi-sport athletes develop better, why turning down Team USA events and early college offers was the right call, and why the underbelly of the youth baseball business too often sells parents the ceiling instead of protecting the floor. A must-listen for any baseball or softball parent who wants a blueprint straight from three men who lived it — and got it right. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Walter Beede welcomes Stetson University assistant coach and recruiting coordinator Greg Lovelady to this edition of Coach's Corner, presented by Corvive — use code BLUEBOOK at checkout for 30% off your first order — and brought to you by Bluebook Media Group and Bluebook Sports. Coach Lovelady brings a unique perspective to the table — a former All-American at the University of Miami, former Division I head coach, and a coach who has helped develop over 55 MLB Draft selections. He breaks down why the "mid-major" label no longer tells the full story, how the ASUN Conference and a gauntlet out-of-conference schedule against programs like Arkansas, Virginia, Florida, and Florida State prepare Stetson for postseason play, and why the Hatters have earned back-to-back regional appearances — including wins over Power Four programs. He also digs into how the transfer portal and the new five-year eligibility window are reshaping recruiting timelines, what coaches are really looking for from high school athletes in today's landscape, and how to contact a college coach the right way — directly, personally, and with your video accessible. A must-listen for any family exploring Division I baseball beyond the Power Four. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Walter Beede sits down with Fordham University recruiting coordinator and pitching coach Elliot Glynn on this edition of Coach's Corner, brought to you by Bluebook Media Group and Bluebook Sports, and presented by Corvive — use code BLUEBOOK at checkout for 30% off your first order. Coach Glynn brings a rare perspective to the show — a three-time MLB draft selection and member of the elite 2011 UConn baseball program who has built his coaching career from Hartford to Siena to Fordham in the highly competitive Atlantic Ten Conference. He breaks down exactly what D1 pitching coaches are looking for in a recruit, why velocity alone won't get you there, and how foundational skills like glove-side command and pitch development in catch play separate the good from the great. He also covers what a proper recruiting email looks like, why your transcript matters as much as your video, and how to use platforms like X and the Bluebook app to get on a college coach's radar. A must-listen for any pitcher or baseball family with D1 aspirations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brought to you by Corvive and Bluebook Sports — and recorded at Bluebook Media Studios. Host Walter Beede sits down with Ryan Copeland, Head Coach of Northern Illinois University Baseball, for a deep dive into what it takes to build a winning Division I program from the ground up. Since taking over in June of 2023, Coach Copeland has nearly tripled NIU's conference win total and has the Huskies trending toward the MAC's upper tier. Coach Copeland breaks down the culture-first approach he and his staff implemented from day one — setting expectations, elevating standards, and coaching players hard while having their backs. He gets candid about what college coaches are really looking for in high school recruits beyond the radar gun and exit velocity, why the ability to perform under pressure matters more than raw tools, and how the better you get in baseball, the more you fail — and why that's the point. The conversation also covers what makes NIU and the DeKalb campus such a strong fit for student-athletes, how recruiting has evolved in the transfer portal era, where late bloomers fit in the modern recruiting landscape, and how Coach Copeland builds his out-of-conference schedule to balance competition, confidence, and budget. Topics covered: Turning around a D1 program · Recruiting & evaluating high school talent · Mental performance & failure in college baseball · NIU campus culture · Transfer portal strategy · Late bloomers & scheduling philosophy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Coach Eric Cirella of Salve Regina University joins Coach's Corner, presented by Corvive — use code BLUEBOOK at checkout for 30% off your first order — for an in-depth look at what it takes to build a nationally ranked Division III baseball program. Coach Cirella discusses carrying on a family legacy at Salve, competing in the powerhouse NEWMAC Athletic Conference, and everything families need to know about the D3 recruiting process — from timelines and evaluation windows to camps and how to get on a coach's radar. He also covers roster management, player development, D3 merit-based financial aid, and the character traits he looks for in every recruit. A must-listen for any high school player or family exploring Division III baseball. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Coach’s Corner, we sit down with Jon Martin, Head Coach at Bates College, to break down the reality of Division III baseball at one of the top academic conferences in the country—the NESCAC. Coach Martin shares why Bates is off to one of the best starts in program history and how they’ve built a culture centered around high-level performance, strong leadership, and genuine player relationships. This conversation flips the script on what many families think about Division III. It highlights how schools like Bates offer elite academics, competitive baseball, and life-changing opportunities—all without sacrificing the athlete experience. Why NESCAC baseball is elite across the board—academically and athletically How Bates recruits high-level players also being targeted by Ivy and Division I programs The importance of culture, leadership, and playing loose while staying focused Why Division III can provide more development, opportunity, and long-term success How Bates players can double major and still compete at a high level The power of the Bates alumni network and lifetime career opportunities Why recruiting is about fit—both academically and personally—not just talent What coaches really look for: baseball IQ, instincts, character, and communication Why personalized communication (not mass emails) is critical in recruiting The importance of being seen live—video opens the door, but performance closes it Coach Martin also emphasizes that the Bates experience is about more than baseball—it's about building confident, prepared young men who leave with options in life, not just in the game. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Coach’s Corner, we sit down with Mike Curran, Head Coach at Ohlone College, one of the premier junior college baseball programs in the country. Coach Curran breaks down what truly makes California JUCO baseball unique, why it’s one of the most competitive environments in the game today, and how it serves as a powerful development path to Division I baseball. This conversation is a must-listen for parents and players navigating the recruiting process, especially those considering JUCO as a pathway. Coach Curran provides real insight into what it takes to succeed, how recruiting actually works, and why development is about investment—not shortcuts. What makes California JUCO (CCCAA) different from NJCAA and other levels Why JUCO is not a fallback—but one of the most competitive routes in baseball today How Ohlone recruits globally, bringing in players from across the U.S. and internationally The reality of JUCO competition—every lineup is filled with top-tier hitters Why players must develop mental toughness, humility, and daily discipline The importance of investing in sleep, nutrition, routines, and team roles Why rushing the process hurts development—trust the 2–3 year journey How JUCO prepares players to thrive—not just survive—at the Division I level The growing impact of international players in college baseball recruiting How Ohlone actively markets players and helps them earn Division I opportunities Coach Curran also emphasizes that success at the JUCO level comes down to one thing—investment. Players who fully commit to the process, embrace competition, and focus on daily growth are the ones who ultimately move on and succeed at the next level. Sponsored By Bluebook Sports The digital hub connecting players, coaches, parents, and businesses across the sports world. Build your athlete profile and take control of your recruiting journey. Download Bluebook Sports today on Apple or Google Play. CorVive Take your performance to the next level with clean, effective nutrition built for athletes. Visit CorVive.com and use code BLUEBOOK for 30% off your first order. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Coach’s Corner, we sit down with Chris Morris, Head Baseball Coach at MIT, to discuss the evolving landscape of Division III baseball, recruiting high-achieving student-athletes, and what it takes to succeed at one of the world’s most demanding academic institutions. Coach Morris shares insights into the rapidly rising level of Division III baseball and why programs like MIT continue to attract elite players who want both high-level competition and a world-class education. Located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, just steps from the Charles River and minutes from Fenway Park, MIT offers student-athletes a unique opportunity to balance elite academics with competitive athletics in one of the country’s most dynamic college environments. Why Division III baseball is stronger than ever and closing the gap with Division I programs The academic and athletic expectations for student-athletes at MIT How passion for both baseball and academics drives success at elite institutions Why multi-sport athletes often develop stronger competitive instincts and resilience The importance of time management and building routines for college success What MIT looks for during the recruiting process beyond just baseball talent How camps and direct communication help recruits learn about programs and coaching staffs Why student-athletes should focus on academic planning early in high school The role of strength development, movement patterns, and physical preparation in today’s game Coach Morris also emphasizes that character, curiosity, and competitiveness are just as important as athletic ability when evaluating recruits who want to thrive in the MIT environment. For players and families pursuing the recruiting process, this conversation provides valuable insight into how elite academic institutions evaluate student-athletes and what it takes to succeed both on and off the field. Sponsored By Bluebook Sports Build your athlete profile, connect with coaches, and take control of your recruiting journey. Download Bluebook Sports today on Apple or Google Play. ProLine Training Balls Trusted by players, coaches, and programs across the country for durability and performance. Visit ProLineBalls.com and use code BLUEBOOK to save on your next order. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Coach’s Corner, Coach Beede sits down with Chuck Ristano, Head Coach at the United States Naval Academy, to discuss recruiting, pitching development, and what makes Annapolis one of the most unique environments in all of college baseball. Coach Ristano’s journey through elite programs — including Notre Dame and Florida State — prepared him to lead one of the most demanding and prestigious institutions in the country. At Navy, players are not just preparing for Division I competition, but also for careers as leaders and officers in the United States military. In this conversation, Coach Ristano shares insight into: The academic standards and recruiting filtration required to compete in the Patriot League Why fastball command and pitchability matter more than radar gun readings How the best pitchers combine craft, competitiveness, and secondary pitch development The importance of identifying ultra-competitive players who elevate their team Why college baseball is becoming an older and more mature game The growing value of prep school and gap years in college recruiting How strength training, nutrition, and mental conditioning drive pitcher development Why young athletes should watch college baseball and study the game The importance of challenging yourself against older and better competition Coach Ristano also reflects on what makes coaching at the Naval Academy so meaningful — working with student-athletes who are pursuing excellence not only on the field, but also as future leaders serving their country. It’s a conversation about discipline, preparation, and the pursuit of excellence in every part of life. Sponsored By Bluebook Sports The digital home for athletes. Build your profile, access Bluebook AI, and connect across multiple sports in one powerful platform.Download Bluebook Sports today. CorVive Clean performance nutrition designed to fuel energy, hydration, and recovery for serious athletes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Coach’s Corner, Coach Beede sits down with University of South Carolina Pitching Coach Terry Rooney to break down what truly separates elite pitchers from the rest — and why so many young arms are focused on the wrong things. With nearly three decades of Division I experience, Coach Rooney shares a powerful framework for pitcher development built around three buckets: Body. Ball. How to Win. Inside this conversation: The recruiting difference between “Over the Rubber” vs. “Over the Plate” Why projection, athleticism, and arm action matter more than early velocity The development progression: Flat Ground → Pen → Game Why nothing replaces throwing volume and conditioning the arm How to make real in-game adjustments (Physical, Mental, or Tempo) Why breath control and heart rate management are performance separators The truth about confidence — and why it’s the most important tool a coach can instill Coach Rooney challenges early specialization, encourages athletes to stay athletic, and reinforces that winning comes down to controlling moments — one pitch at a time. If you're serious about pitching development, recruiting realities, and building durable arms the right way, this episode is a must-listen. Sponsored by Bluebook Sports Build your athletic profile, access Bluebook AI, and connect across multiple sports — all in one place. Download Bluebook Sports today. and Corvive Premium sports nutrition designed to fuel performance, recovery, and focus. Train harder. Recover smarter. Compete stronger. 30% off for new customers use Code BLUEBOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Coach’s Corner presented by CorVive, Coach Beede sits down with Tyler Shewmaker, Director of Player Development and Recruiting at Coastal Carolina, to break down what modern college recruiting really looks like — and how high school athletes can prepare the right way. Fresh off another national spotlight run, Coastal Carolina continues to recruit coast-to-coast while competing at the highest level of Division I baseball . Coach Shewmaker shares candid insight into roster construction, shrinking high school classes, the impact of the 34-man roster cap, and why physical preparation and self-discipline are no longer optional. This episode is a masterclass for families navigating today’s recruiting landscape. Why the 34-man roster cap will shrink high school recruiting classes How athletes must broaden their horizons beyond a “dream school” Why self-discipline, weight room obsession, and physicality are non-negotiables How Coastal evaluates catchers beyond pop time The importance of meaningful repetitions and game-speed training Why messy training is often the right training The real role camps play in recruiting and evaluation How student-athletes should email and communicate with college programs The impact of social media and why pinned video matters Coach Shewmaker also provides insight into how Coastal compares camp metrics directly to their current roster — giving athletes real, measurable benchmarks to track development . Recruiting isn’t about hype. It’s about preparation, physical development, self-discipline, and fit. If you want to blend in on a Division I campus, you better train like you belong there before you ever step foot on it. Coach’s Corner is presented by CorVive — elite performance nutrition built for serious athletes who demand clean energy, hydration, and recovery without the crash. Get 30% off your first order using code BLUEBOOK. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this edition of Coach’s Corner presented by CorVive, Coach Beede sits down with National Champion LSU Head Coach Jay Johnson for an in-depth conversation on recruiting, culture, player development, and what truly separates elite programs from the rest. Fresh off leading LSU to a College World Series title, Coach Johnson shares insight into navigating the “bullseye” season, balancing expectations in the SEC, and why precision and execution define the LSU standard . This episode dives deep into the realities of modern recruiting, the transfer portal, technology, mental toughness, and building a culture that sustains excellence year after year. Coaching the “hunted” after a national championship Why choosing the right fit matters more than brand name recognition Misconceptions about the transfer portal and high school recruiting The balance between baseball, academics, and long-term life preparation Technology, analytics, and player development in today’s game Mental toughness as the foundation of championship teams Why production over potential is the true evaluation metric Building culture through fundamentals, competition, and character Coach Johnson delivers a masterclass in substance over image, preparation over hype, and development over shortcuts — providing invaluable insight for parents, athletes, and coaches alike. Coach’s Corner is presented by CorVive — elite performance nutrition designed for serious athletes who demand clean energy, hydration, and recovery support without the crash. Use code BLUEBOOK and receive 30% off your first order. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Coach’s Corner, host Walter Beede sits down with Jordan Twohig, Assistant Coach at the University of Hawaiʻi, for one of the most detailed and honest conversations families will hear about modern college baseball. Coach Twohig breaks down what recruiting looks like in today’s portal-driven, international game and why development, durability, and daily habits matter more than ever. From playing and competing in paradise to managing a roster filled with athletes from across the U.S. and around the world, Hawaiʻi offers a unique lens into where college baseball is headed. Key topics include: How Hawaiʻi recruits high school, JUCO, portal, and international players Why size, strength, nutrition, and durability are now non-negotiables The reality of daily competition inside a college roster What families misunderstand about “development” vs. exposure Why learning the game (situations, baserunning, decision-making) still separates players The importance of passion—not just for baseball, but for the college lifestyle Coach Twohig also shares practical advice for younger athletes, including journaling, habit building, nutrition awareness, and learning how to build on strengths while working on weaknesses. This episode is a must-listen for parents and players who want a real understanding of what it takes to compete—and last—at the Division I level. 🎧 Sponsors: CorVive — elite performance nutrition. Get 30% off your first order with code BLUEBOOK Bluebook Sports — the most connected platform in the game. Download today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices