Dropping Diamonds with AJ Andrews

In this episode, Bandits softball standout Erin Coffel joins the show to discuss the value of trusting the process and staying patient in the intensely competitive world of softball. She and AJ dive into key mental strategies like using affirmations, staying present, and journaling to build discipline and sharpen focus. Erin also shares her favorite on-field moments, how she handles pressure, and...

AJ’s sister, Aliyah Andrews—also known as "Air Liyah"—grabs the mic to share her inspiring journey into the world of softball. She discusses how she earned her iconic nickname, her experiences playing for the AUSL Blaze, and Team USA. Aliyah also dives into building confidence, mastering different pitch types, and offers practical tips for pushing through mental slumps.   Lo...

Live from the ballpark, Dropping Diamonds with AJ Andrews, kicks off with an opening day special. AJ is joined by two legends, Olympic gold medalists Jennie Finch and Jessica Mendoza. They share their inspirations, career highlights, and the impactful moments that shaped their softball journeys. They also reflect on the evolution and future of professional women's softball, the significance of MLB...

This week, AJ is joined by Megan Faraimo, a three-time All-American pitcher who plays for the AUSL Talons, Team USA, and internationally in Japan. The conversation touches on Megan's journey through professional softball and the mental resilience required to excel. Megan also shares insights into her pitching techniques, the importance of vision boards, the role of her cultural background, and the...

This week, AJ is joined by former LSU teammate and AUSL Blaze pitcher Carley Hoover. They discuss their time playing together at LSU, the importance of affirmations, and how to maintain motivation through tough situations. Carly shares tales from her career, including her experiences playing in Japan, dealing with pressure, and learning from past failures.     Looking for more diamonds?&...

In this special episode, AJ sits down with legendary softball player and coach Lisa Fernandez at UCLA's iconic Easton Stadium. Fernandez, a three-time Olympic gold medalist and two-time national champion, shares insights from her illustrious career, including her motivational quote, 'never be satisfied,' and her approach to overcoming failure. She emphasizes the importance of continuous improvemen...

In this episode, AJ is joined by Sierra Romero, a four-time All-American and NCAA record holder who currently plays for the AUSL Volts. Sierra shares her journey, from facing self-doubt and overcoming injuries to developing confidence and mental resilience in achieving success.   Looking for more diamonds?  Follow AJ on Instagram and X .   Share the diamonds you...

This week, AJ is joined by Maya Brady, a three-time All-American and Team USA softball player. The conversation delves into Maya’s softball journey, highlighting her competitive family background, the pivotal moments that shaped her career, her struggles, and the hard work that led to her success. Brady discusses her motivational quotes, her experiences growing up, and the influence of her f...

Kim Ng, a trailblazer in the sports world who has made history as the first female general manager in Major League Baseball, joins AJ to discuss her career spanning over 21 years in the front offices of the White Sox, Yankees, and Dodgers, and three World Series rings. Kim now serves as a Senior Advisor for Athletes Unlimited Softball League. The discussion delves into the challenge...

In this episode, Skylar Wallace from AUSL Bandits joins AJ to discuss her journey from the University of Florida to her professional experiences with failure and success. She emphasizes embracing individual strengths, the role of affirmations, and the mindset required to overcome setbacks. Skylar also highlights her inspirations, her view on the importance of recovery, and her advocacy for lifting...

In this episode, AJ chats with Olympian and professional softball player Tori Vidales. They discuss her softball journey, from committing to Texas A&M at 14 to playing for Team Mexico in the Olympics. Vidales shares insights on mental toughness, preparation, and positive affirmations. They also talk about leadership lessons, including a key conversation with Coach Jo Evans that shaped her appr...

In this episode AJ chats with Lexi Kilfoyl, a World Cup Gold Medalist and AUSL Bandits Pro Softballer. Lexi shares her journey from playing various sports to becoming a standout pitcher, highlighting the importance of fun, overcoming injuries, and staying confident. She reflects on key challenges, career moments, and the support of her family and teammates.  Looking for more diamonds?  F...

In this episode, AJ is joined by Amanda Lorenz, a professional softball player for the AUSL Volts and USA Softball team. Amanda emphasizes the importance of confidence, hard work, and overcoming failures as she shares key moments in her career, from the college recruitment process to impactful games.    Looking for more diamonds?  Follow AJ on Instagram and X .   Share the diam...

AJ is joined by Natasha Watley, a two-time Olympic medalist, Hall of Famer, and former Pro All-Star softball player. Natasha shares her experiences, the lessons she learned from mentors, and her advice for young athletes. They also delve into Natasha's ongoing efforts to support the game of softball through partnerships, advocacy, and professional softball league involvement.   Looking for mo...

In the first episode of Dropping Diamonds with AJ Andrews , AJ introduces herself and the podcast's mission to explore the world of softball. She shares her journey from playing multiple sports to becoming the first woman to win a Rawlings Gold Glove. AJ highlights the importance of giving 100%, the support from her family and coaches, and her goal to inspire and empower women in sports.  &nb...

Dropping Diamonds with AJ Andrews is your landing spot for everything you need to know about softball.  Subscribe now and join us in the diamond each week.     Dropping Diamonds with AJ Andrews is in partnership with the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL). See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.