178. Alex Rodriguez: Lessons & Insights From A Storied MLB Career

178. Alex Rodriguez: Lessons & Insights From A Storied MLB Career

August 18, 2026 · 42 min · Episode 195

About this episode

Alex Rodriguez shares insights from his MLB career and discusses the impact of early specialization in youth sports.

14-time All-Star, three-time AL MVP, and 2009 World Series champion Alex Rodriguez joins Jeff, Britt, and Brad for a wide-ranging conversation that goes far beyond the highlight-reel numbers. A-Rod traces his path from a Washington Heights childhood (his father leaving when he was 10, his mother’s extraordinary work ethic, and a stretch on food stamps) to Miami, where baseball, basketball, and football became his outlet and purpose. He explains why playing up with older kids as a late-July birthday was an unexpected advantage, how quarterbacking and point-guard vision translated directly to shortstop, and why he believes today’s early-specialization culture is hurting young athletes. The former Westminster Christian star makes a passionate case for fundamentals over launch angle and exit velo: start with the bunt, the hit-and-run, and elite defense. He talks about the two coaches who shaped him for a decade, the value of curiosity and listening (even at the height of his stardom), and the mental approach that let a 18-year-old phenom survive the spotlight. Parents and coaches will especially appreciate his advice on the ride home, process over results, keeping kids off…

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