Swing Hard

Send us Fan MailThis episode podcast features Kevin Griffin (father of Konnor Griffin, a Pittsburgh Pirates player), Scott Sterling (father of Levi Sterling, a professional pitcher), discussing their sons' baseball journeys. The conversation covered the development paths of both Konnor and Levi, including their experiences with USA Baseball teams, the draft process, and the challenges of professional baseball. The discussion highlighted the importance of multiple sports in young players' development, the role of parents in supporting their children's baseball aspirations, and the mental toughness required at higher levels of play. The participants shared insights about the U.S. national team selection process, college recruitment decisions, and advice for young players and parents navigating the competitive baseball landscape."Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailThis episode podcast features Kevin Griffin (father of Konnor Griffin, a Pittsburgh Pirates player), Scott Sterling (father of Levi Sterling, a professional pitcher), discussing their sons' baseball journeys. The conversation covered the development paths of both Konnor and Levi, including their experiences with USA Baseball teams, the draft process, and the challenges of professional baseball. The discussion highlighted the importance of multiple sports in young players' development, the role of parents in supporting their children's baseball aspirations, and the mental toughness required at higher levels of play. The participants shared insights about the U.S. national team selection process, college recruitment decisions, and advice for young players and parents navigating the competitive baseball landscape."Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailThis podcast episode featured John Campanella discussing his baseball career and family legacy with hosts Denny and Rob. John shared stories about growing up in a family of seven boys, with his father Joe Campanella being a prominent coach and actor who prioritized family over his Hollywood career. The conversation covered John's time playing for Denny at Glendale College, his subsequent career at Cal Poly San Luis and UCLA, and his current role as a writer and editor for the Toluca Times newspaper. John discussed how his father's coaching philosophy focused on building character and relationships rather than just winning games, and he reflected on the lasting impact of youth baseball experiences. The episode concluded with plans for future collaborations between John and the podcast hosts, including potential regular appearances and article contributions."Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailAuthor Adam Sarancik  joined Denny to discuss the role of parents in youth baseball and how they should communicate with coaches and players about game strategy and performance. Adam emphasized that parents should avoid second-guessing coaching decisions and instead use open-ended questions to engage their children in post-game conversations. Denny shared his experience with a player who was moved from the 3-hole to the 6-hole in the batting order, explaining that such decisions are based on mechanics, mental approach, and situational needs rather than personal performance. The discussion included detailed analysis of hitting mechanics, the importance of first-pitch strikes, and the need for situational hitting practice. The conversation also touched on the challenges of managing young players' mental state during a tough losing streak and the importance of maintaining trust in coaching decisions.Don't forget to read Adam's book "A Ground Ball to Shortstop - How and Why Coaches See Their Game Differently Than Anyone Else."  It is a quick read and that perfectly aligns with today's podcast."Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailOn this week's "Swing Hard," Denny called Rob after his high school baseball team's 1-0 loss to De La Salle in the national tournament semifinals, where they were ranked 22nd in the state.  Denny and Rob then discussed how parents should handle post-game conversations with their children about sports coaching decisions. Denny advised against venting to children about perceived coaching mistakes, suggesting instead to focus on appreciating the game and using positive language. "Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailThis week Denny talks about opening weekend at Major League Baseball. Plus, Denny and Rob review the latest from the Mission League and Denny teases a topic we have coming up in a future podcast, “What’s appropriate for parents to say to their kids about their coach.”"Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailDenny Barrett joined Producer Rob for a podcast discussion about Notre Dame's successful 9-0 start to the baseball season, where they currently rank number one in the state. Denny credited the team's strong performance to unified coaching staff coordination and exceptional defensive play, noting they've made only four errors in nine games compared to fourteen errors in the same number of games last year. The conversation also covered the World Baseball Classic, with Denny expressing appreciation for the tournament while noting the unique contract restrictions that limit player usage. They discussed Notre Dame's upcoming schedule, including games against Harvard Westlake and participation in the National Classic tournament, before concluding with a discussion about the importance of building player confidence through positive feedback rather than focusing on mistakes."Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailThis week Denny is joined by Adam Sarancik. Denny and Adam discuss the benefits and challenges of year around athletic training for young athletes. Adam and Denny also discuss the importance of balancing sports with other aspects of life."Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailThis week Denny talks about addiction and recovery with Matt Barker, a clinical hypnotherapist and licensed drug counselor. Denny shares his own journey and the conversation how addiction affects all walks of life, including athletes and celebrities. It’s an episode you won’t want to miss, Swing Hard!"Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailThis week on the Swing Hard podcast, Notre Dame hooper, Julian Rishwain discusses his college basketball journey and upcoming podcast "Journey of a Hooper". Julian shares his experiences playing at multiple colleges, overcoming injuries, and maintaining his passion for the game despite challenges."Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailThis week on the Swing Hard Podcast Denny and Adam Sarancik!For questions on the podcast,  email Adam at [email protected] Sarancik is the author of four Amazon Top 100 Best Selling books, Coaching Champions for Life – The Process of Mentoring the Person, Athlete and Player; Takeaway Quotes for Coaching Champions for Life; A Ground Ball to Shortstop – How and Why Coaches See Their Game Differently Than Anyone Else; and Teacher, Role Model, Mentor: Lessons Learned From a Lifetime in Coaching. LINK to Adam's Amazon Page"Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailThis week on the Swing Hard Podcast, Denny talks to Los Angeles Dodger Coach and Video Coordinator Petie Montero. Petie and Denny talk about coaching Mookie Betts and working with Reggie Smith. Plus, Petie gives some amazing behind the scenes insight on game 6 and game 7 of the World Series. Swing Hard, in Case you hit it.  Part 2 of 2."Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailThis week on the Swing Hard Podcast, Denny talks to Los Angeles Dodger Coach and Video Coordinator Petie Montero. Petie and Denny talk about coaching Mookie Betts and working with Reggie Smith. Plus, Petie gives some amazing behind the scenes insight on game 6 and game 7 of the World Series. Swing Hard, in Case you hit it."Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailThis week on the Swing Hard Podcast Denny and Rob recap last weekend’s preseason games. Plus Denny is not just a coach and podcaster but he’s an actor?And it’s time for the annual alumni game featuring past Notre Dame greats!"Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailThis week Denny talks to Jim Wagner, owner and operator of the Throw Zone Academy in Santa Clarita. Jim and Denny talk about arm care, velocity and how to train your body and arm for the next level. Swing Hard and throw hard with Denny Barrett."Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailThis week Denny talks to Jim Wagner, owner and operator of the Throw Zone Academy in Santa Clarita. Jim and Denny talk about arm care, velocity and how to train your body and arm for the next level. Swing Hard and throw hard with Denny Barrett."Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailThis week on the Swing Hard Podcast Denny and Adam Sarancik have a spirited debate about youth baseball tryouts and how they should be conducted. Plus, Adam gives some great pointers on how you should conduct your tryouts this year. For questions on the podcast,  email Adam at [email protected] Sarancik is the author of four Amazon Top 100 Best Selling books, Coaching Champions for Life – The Process of Mentoring the Person, Athlete and Player; Takeaway Quotes for Coaching Champions for Life; A Ground Ball to Shortstop – How and Why Coaches See Their Game Differently Than Anyone Else; and Teacher, Role Model, Mentor: Lessons Learned From a Lifetime in Coaching. LINK to Adam's Amazon Page"Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailThis week we are celebrating the New Year with a brand new episode of the Swing Hard Podcast. Denny talks to University of Kentucky pitcher Oliver Boone and University of Michigan pitcher Eric Puodziunas. Denny and the guys talk about life as a D-1 Pitcher, overcoming injuries and what it takes to pitch at the college level."Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailSwing Hard #234 features Krystal Briggs, a Reiki master and anxiety center worker, discussing her unconventional background in sports and her approach to mental resilience. Krystal shared how her father, who wanted sons, had no interest in sports, yet she developed an appreciation for them through her own experiences and connections with athletes. The discussion explored how sports can impact mental health and energy levels, with Krystal explaining how she helps athletes and children overcome anxiety and find their "muchness" through mindfulness practices. The conversation concluded with practical advice for parents about supporting their children's sports participation while maintaining a focus on enjoyment and personal growth rather than perfection."Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailOn this episode of Swing Hard...Denny and Justin give insight on the Lane Kiffin decision, playing for your dad, and how to find leaders on your team.  Plus, Justin has a special summer announcement. "Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailThis week Adam Sarancik joins Denny on the Swing Hard podcast. Denny and Adam talk about the best moments of the year on the podcast and on the field. Plus, Adam shares a special year end gift for Denny."Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailDenny, Robert, and Lew Goldstein discussed the recruiting process for Lou's son, Braden, who is a 6'4", 190-pound left-handed hitter with a strong arm. They emphasized the importance of parents staying out of the way while still supporting their child, and Lou shared his experience of learning to navigate the complex world of college baseball recruiting. Denny explained how college coaches often have different needs and priorities, and Lou described his approach of asking direct questions to understand why his son might not have been selected by a particular school. The conversation highlighted the challenges and opportunities in the recruiting process."Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailDenny and Robert discussed Denny's current health issues and the importance of taking breaks in sports, particularly in baseball. They explored the benefits of year-round practice for developing muscle memory in sports and shared personal experiences of playing multiple sports as children. The conversation concluded with discussions about the challenges of cutting players in sports, the importance of effective communication between coaches and players, and plans for a future Thanksgiving-themed podcast episode."Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailDenny and Producer Rob discussed the Dodgers' World Series victory and its impact on the Dodgers-Giants rivalry, leading to a conversation about the psychology of sports fans and their relationship with successful teams. They explored various aspects of youth sports coaching, including the balance between winning and development, with Denny sharing his experiences working with young athletes at different age levels. The discussion concluded with insights on the importance of maintaining a winning culture in youth sports while emphasizing personal growth and intrinsic motivation, particularly in baseball coaching and player development."Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailThis week Denny talks to our in house Professor of baseball, Adam Sarancik! Adam and Denny talk about the World Series Champion, Dodgers. Plus Adam introduces a special “Dodger great” guest to the podcast. And Professor Adam wraps up the episode with simple fundamentals about catching and throwing in the off-season."Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailThis week Denny talks to Seth Moir, pitching coach and recruiting assistant for Cal Poly! Seth talks about life as a Division 1 coach plus he shares terrific insight on what top notch colleges like Cal Poly are looking for in a scholar athlete. Swing Hard in case you hit it this weekend with Denny Barrett."Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailThis week Denny talks to Jason Sklar, one half of the Sklar Brothers. Jason shares some great stories about Kirk Gibson, Michigan football, Max Scherzer, Jack Buck, and Ozzie Smith. Plus Jason and Denny make their World Series predictions."Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailDenny and Rob preview Notre Dame baseball. Plus, Denny previews the Fall podcast line up including guests and topics coming up in future episodes."Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailThis week on the Swing Hard Podcast, we get an update on the Pro Baseball career of BATRS alum RJ Gordon. Denny and RJ discuss life as a New York Mets prospect. Plus RJ talks about his preparation in the off season and what’s next in his pro career."Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailThis week Adam Sarancik joins Denny on the swing hard podcast. Denny and Adam talk Dodger playoffs and the Top 10 things coaches should be doing in the off season.For questions on the podcast,  email Adam at [email protected] Sarancik is the author of four Amazon Top 100 Best Selling books, Coaching Champions for Life – The Process of Mentoring the Person, Athlete and Player; Takeaway Quotes for Coaching Champions for Life; A Ground Ball to Shortstop – How and Why Coaches See Their Game Differently Than Anyone Else; and Teacher, Role Model, Mentor: Lessons Learned From a Lifetime in Coaching. LINK to Adam's Amazon Page"Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett"Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailThis week on the Swing Hard Podcast, Denny and Rob discuss Paul Skenes vs. Hunter Green, the MLB playoffs, the Dodgers scouting team and a couple great BATRS/ travel team stories. Swing hard in case you hit it."Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailThis week Denny talks to Kevin Berg, father of Notre Dame pitching sensation Beckett Berg. Kevin takes you on an amazing behind the scenes look of a recruiting trip to University of Texas. Plus Denny and Kevin talk about the parent’s role in raising a Division 1 athlete."Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailThis week Denny talks to our in-house Professor of baseball, Adam Sarancik. Denny and Adam talk about the pros and cons of fall baseball. Plus Adam discusses the possible alternatives.For questions on the podcast,  email Adam at [email protected] Sarancik is the author of four Amazon Top 100 Best Selling books, Coaching Champions for Life – The Process of Mentoring the Person, Athlete and Player; Takeaway Quotes for Coaching Champions for Life; A Ground Ball to Shortstop – How and Why Coaches See Their Game Differently Than Anyone Else; and Teacher, Role Model, Mentor: Lessons Learned From a Lifetime in Coaching. LINK to Adam's Amazon Page"Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett"Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailThis week Denny and Rob talk to Tehachapi High School baseball coach Guy Dees. Denny and Guy talk about their philosophy on coaching. Plus Guy shares some insight on this year’s team and the challenges and advantages of coaching in the Central Valley."Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan Mail“A day in the life of a Division 1 baseball recruit...” This week on the Swing Hard Podcast, Denny follows up with Notre Dame pitching standout Beckett Berg. Beckett talks about the midnight phone calls and texts he received from D1 baseball coaches. Plus, Beckett reveals his Top 5."Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailThis week Denny and Rob break down the summer baseball season plus Denny shares recruitment news about some of his former BATRS players and a sneak preview of what’s ahead in the Fall with the Swing Hard Podcast."Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailThis week Adam Sarancik is back! And he'll answer some important questions on this episode like...“What is a mentor?" “What should you be asking college recruiters?  And..."What questions should recruiters be asking you?"For questions on the podcast,  email Adam at [email protected] Sarancik is the author of four Amazon Top 100 Best Selling books, Coaching Champions for Life – The Process of Mentoring the Person, Athlete and Player; Takeaway Quotes for Coaching Champions for Life; A Ground Ball to Shortstop – How and Why Coaches See Their Game Differently Than Anyone Else; and Teacher, Role Model, Mentor: Lessons Learned From a Lifetime in Coaching. LINK to Adam's Amazon Page"Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailThis week Adam Sarancik is back!For questions on the podcast,  email Adam at [email protected] Sarancik is the author of four Amazon Top 100 Best Selling books, Coaching Champions for Life – The Process of Mentoring the Person, Athlete and Player; Takeaway Quotes for Coaching Champions for Life; A Ground Ball to Shortstop – How and Why Coaches See Their Game Differently Than Anyone Else; and Teacher, Role Model, Mentor: Lessons Learned From a Lifetime in Coaching. LINK to Adam's Amazon Page"Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailThis week in part 2, Jack Wilson shares tips on how to flush an error and work through a slump with “Iron Mike.” Plus, Denny talks about Big leaguer Jacob Wilson (Jack’s son) and how he is adjusting to major league life. And, Jack reveals some interesting facts about Justin Verlander, Freddie Freeman, and Charlie Morton."Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailThis week Denny talks to former Major Leaguer Jack Wilson. Denny and Jack talk about rising superstar and Big leaguer Jacob Wilson (Jack’s son). Denny dives into the challenges and rewards of coaching and fathering a young major leaguer. Plus, Jack shares some terrific advice for parents and gives us a peak of what’s next in his career."Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailThis week Denny talks to Notre Dame High School standout pitcher Beckett Berg. Denny and Beckett talk about the pressure of being a starting pitcher in the mission league. Plus Denny shares valuable insight on college recruiting, and competing in the summer. "Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailThis week Adam Sarancik is back with the most powerful information and insight yet. Adam and Denny talk about how to choose a college.  They also discuss the pros and cons of playing multiple sports. And Adam answers the question, is a college degree enough to make you special in the job market?For questions on the podcast,  email Adam at [email protected] Sarancik is the author of four Amazon Top 100 Best Selling books, Coaching Champions for Life – The Process of Mentoring the Person, Athlete and Player; Takeaway Quotes for Coaching Champions for Life; A Ground Ball to Shortstop – How and Why Coaches See Their Game Differently Than Anyone Else; and Teacher, Role Model, Mentor: Lessons Learned From a Lifetime in Coaching. LINK to Adam's Amazon Page"Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailThis week celebrates 4th of July by talking to two of the premiere outfielders in the Mission League, Ethan Price from Harvard Westlake and Isaiah Hearn from Chaminade. Denny talks about college recruiting, summer league, Jackie Robinson, Willie Mays and what it takes to become a division 1 baseball player."Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailThis week it’s Part 2 of Denny’s conversation with UCLA lead off man Dean West. Dean and Denny talk about all the obstacles the Bruins had to deal with this season. Plus, Dean shares some insight on how the Bruins will get back to the 2026 College World Series!"Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailThis week on the Swing Hard Podcast Denny talks to UCLA Bruin lead off hitter Dean West. Dean talks about his experience in this year’s College World Series plus he shares details on his interesting superstition and talks about the hugely successful year for the Bruins."Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailThis week Denny talks to our in house Professor of baseball, Adam Sarancik. Adam breaks down the five most neglected aspects of an Athletes Training Regimen. Plus, Denny shares some off season training tips. And, Denny and Adam tease an upcoming explosive podcast about the transfer portal.Adam Sarancik is the author of four Amazon Top 100 Best Selling books, Coaching Champions for Life – The Process of Mentoring the Person, Athlete and Player; Takeaway Quotes for Coaching Champions for Life; A Ground Ball to Shortstop – How and Why Coaches See Their Game Differently Than Anyone Else; and Teacher, Role Model, Mentor: Lessons Learned From a Lifetime in Coaching. LINK TO ADAM'S AMAZON PAGE..."Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailThis week Denny is in Georgia for the prestigious PBR baseball tournament. Denny talks to coaches from Harvard Westlake and J Serra about what the tournament is all about. Plus Denny has Hall of Fame breaking news. Join us for another episode of “Swing Hard” in case you hit it."Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailThis week Denny and Rob wrap up the High School Baseball season with a big shout out to West Ranch and St John Bosco. Plus, Denny talks about his upcoming coaching and scouting road trip with the Dodgers in Ventura. And, Denny is on the road again to Omaha and Georgia as the Summer baseball tournament season begins."Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailThis week Denny talks to his very first college recruit, Jesse Mitchell. Jesse talks about how Denny influenced his coaching style and demeanor with his daughter’s soccer team. Plus Denny and Jesse share Glendale college stories, and Jesse talks about the ultimate Denny Barrett-Umpire meltdown story."Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett

Send us Fan MailThis week it’s an exclusive High School baseball playoff preview with Denny and Coach Justin Roberts from Stockdale High School. Denny and Justin talk about how you prepare mentally and physically for playoff action. Plus Denny shares the latest news about Pete Rose on the Swing Hard Podcast!"Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett