Shows
That's Strike 3Catcher Icks!After nearly three decades behind the plate, I've seen it all from catchers. The good, the bad, and the stuff that makes me want to call time and have a conversation.This week is all about catcher icks. The habits, behaviors, and little annoyances that catchers bring to the plate that drive umpires crazy. From framing pitches that bounced in the dirt to turning around to argue balls and strikes, we're naming names (well, not literally) and breaking down why these habits hurt catchers more than they help.But this isn't just a venting session...
2026-06-1009 minThat's Strike 3Episode 7: 2-Man MechanicsIn this episode we break down base umpire positioning in the two-man system — where to be, when to be there, and why it matters.What we cover:Position A, B, and C — the right spot for every runner situationAngle over distance — the rule that wins when you can't have bothPositioning is visual. Follow along with the MechaniGram diagrams in the 2025-2026 NFHS Baseball Umpires Manual, available at store.referee.com.That's Strike 3 is built for baseball umpires around three pillars: Mental Game, Craft, and Rules Knowledge.
2026-05-2713 minThat's Strike 3Episode 6: Receiving FeedbackMost umpires think they're further along than they actually are. This episode is about what happens when reality checks in.A few years ago, I asked for feedback — genuinely asked for it — thinking I was operating at a level I hadn't actually reached yet. What I got back was tough. Honest. And it forced a decision that every umpire eventually has to make: do you use the feedback to get better, or do you convince yourself the feedback was wrong?This episode is about that moment, and what it taught me about growth in this game...
2026-05-2009 minThat's Strike 3Special Episode: End of the Season ReviewPerfect, that's a great reference. So you want the session note rewritten to match that style — punchy opener, first person, no headers for the talking points, just flowing copy with a "what we cover" bullet list and a bottom line closer?Let me rewrite it:THAT'S STRIKE 3 — End of Season ReflectionThis season reminded me that growth doesn't announce itself. It shows up quietly, in the middle of a playoff game, in a conversation with a partner after the last out, in the moment you decide to stop worrying about the seventh inning and...
2026-05-1611 minThat's Strike 3Episode 5: Double First BaseThe NFHS Baseball Rules Committee approved the double first base during their annual meeting in June, with the NFHS Board of Directors signing off shortly after. The base is available for use in the 2026 season and becomes mandatory for all high school baseball programs beginning in 2027. In this episode, we break down the purpose of the rule, how it works, the interference and obstruction implications for umpires, and additional rules changes from the same committee meeting.RULES REFERENCEDRule 1-2-9 — Definition and physical requirements of the double first baseRule 2-5-1h — Fair ball: batted ball...
2026-05-1313 minThat's Strike 3Episode 4: Being a Good PartnerIn this episode of That’s Strike 3, we shift from rules to relationships and focus on what it means to be a good partner on the field. Whether you’re working a two-umpire system or part of a larger crew, strong partnership is what separates a functional game from a well-officiated one.We break down the core elements of effective umpire teamwork — communication, trust, positioning, and knowing when to get help. From pregame responsibilities to handling difficult calls, we discuss how partners can support each other without overstepping, maintain credibility, and present a unified presence throughout the game.
2026-05-0611 minThat's Strike 3Episode 3: That's a CatchIn this episode of That’s Strike 3, we tackle one of the most misunderstood rules in baseball: what actually constitutes a catch. Using the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) rule book, we break down the criteria umpires use to determine a legal catch — including secure possession, control, and the requirement to maintain that control through contact with the ground.From diving plays to bobbles on the transfer, we walk through common game situations that spark debate and clarify why what “looks like” a catch isn’t always ruled as one. This episode is designed for coache...
2026-04-2912 minThat's Strike 3Episode 2: Everyone Saw It But MeHere are the episode notes:That's Strike 3 — Episode 2 "Everyone Saw It But Me"In this episode, we're diving into the mental side of umpiring — specifically, what happens in your head after everything goes sideways on the field.John walks through his first varsity ejection: a close game, a bang-bang play at the plate, and a head coach who wasn't going home quietly. What came next wasn't just about whether the call was right — it was about whether John could hold it together for one more inning when the whole stadium was against him.T...
2026-04-2211 minThat's Strike 3Episode 1: The Struggle Is RealEpisode Summary An honest look at the mental and emotional challenges every umpire faces — especially when starting out. This episode sets the tone for the podcast by addressing the real human side of umpiring that nobody talks about.Key Topics CoveredWhy the mental side of umpiring catches most people off guardNerves — what they mean and how to work with themThe weight of a bad call and why carrying it hurts your next playThe loneliness of being the sole decision maker on the fieldWhy being part of an association like EBUA makes a differenceKey...
2026-04-1511 min
Girls Gone GodlessOur Brother in GodlessnessSend us Fan MailIn this episode we are having a Godless crossover! Girls Gone Godless meets the Godless Guide (as he goes by on tiktok), John Telyea! We get to hear his incredible journey from growing up deeply religious and eventually becoming a pastor of over 10 years (with a master's in divinity!) to where he is now, a hilarious anti-theist educator and humanist hospice chaplain! Support the showhttps://linktr.ee/girlsgonegodless
2025-09-071h 30
Life Behind Home PlateBuilding Better Relationships with Players and CoacheLife Behind Home Plate – Episode: Building Better Relationships with Players and CoachesAs umpires, we’re more than just rule enforcers—we’re relationship managers. In this episode, I’m sharing the keys to building trust, respect, and connection with the people on the field who challenge us the most: players and coaches.From clear communication to consistent calls, I’ll break down the small things that make a big difference. Whether you’re a seasoned blue or just getting started, these insights will help you manage the game and the relationships that come with it.👂 Li...
2025-05-0417 minThat's Strike 3Building Better Relationships with Players and CoacheLife Behind Home Plate – Episode: Building Better Relationships with Players and CoachesAs umpires, we’re more than just rule enforcers—we’re relationship managers. In this episode, I’m sharing the keys to building trust, respect, and connection with the people on the field who challenge us the most: players and coaches.From clear communication to consistent calls, I’ll break down the small things that make a big difference. Whether you’re a seasoned blue or just getting started, these insights will help you manage the game and the relationships that come with it.👂 Li...
2025-05-0417 minThat's Strike 3What Level Are You Really Umpiring For?In this episode, I’m breaking down the myth that there's only one path to success in umpiring. Whether you're calling Little League, high school varsity, or dreaming of college ball, the truth is — each level demands a unique set of skills, mindset, and presence.🎧 You'll learn:✅ Why mastering your level is more important than chasing someone else’s✅ What makes each level—from rec ball to college—totally different✅ How the best umpires know their lane and own itThis one’s for the new umps, the seasoned vets, and anyone wond...
2025-04-2317 minLife Behind Home PlateWhat Level Are You Really Umpiring For?In this episode, I’m breaking down the myth that there's only one path to success in umpiring. Whether you're calling Little League, high school varsity, or dreaming of college ball, the truth is — each level demands a unique set of skills, mindset, and presence.🎧 You'll learn:✅ Why mastering your level is more important than chasing someone else’s✅ What makes each level—from rec ball to college—totally different✅ How the best umpires know their lane and own itThis one’s for the new umps, the seasoned vets, and anyone wond...
2025-04-2317 minThat's Strike 3“You’re Outta Here! The Story Behind Ejections”Ever wonder what really goes through an umpire’s mind right before they eject a coach or player? In this episode, we’re stepping into the fire — breaking down the emotion, strategy, and split-second judgment behind one of the most dramatic parts of the game: the ejection.From tense standoffs to dirt-kicking showdowns, I’m sharing real-life stories from behind the plate, what leads up to those unforgettable moments, and how umpires decide when enough is enough.Whether you're a fellow umpire, a player, or just love the game — this episode is packed with insight, a few laug...
2025-04-1011 minLife Behind Home Plate“You’re Outta Here! The Story Behind Ejections”Ever wonder what really goes through an umpire’s mind right before they eject a coach or player? In this episode, we’re stepping into the fire — breaking down the emotion, strategy, and split-second judgment behind one of the most dramatic parts of the game: the ejection.From tense standoffs to dirt-kicking showdowns, I’m sharing real-life stories from behind the plate, what leads up to those unforgettable moments, and how umpires decide when enough is enough.Whether you're a fellow umpire, a player, or just love the game — this episode is packed with insight, a few laug...
2025-04-1011 minThat's Strike 3Staying Fresh Through a Long Baseball SeasonA long baseball season can take a toll on umpires—physically, mentally, and emotionally. Whether you’re working youth leagues, high school, college, or beyond, staying fresh is key to maintaining your focus and consistency on the field.In this episode of Life Behind Home Plate, we’re diving into the best ways to stay sharp all season long, including:⚾ How to maintain your physical conditioning without burning out⚾ Mental strategies to stay focused during long games and tough situations⚾ The importance of rest, recovery, and off-field balance⚾ Building a support syst...
2025-04-0222 minLife Behind Home PlateStaying Fresh Through a Long Baseball SeasonA long baseball season can take a toll on umpires—physically, mentally, and emotionally. Whether you’re working youth leagues, high school, college, or beyond, staying fresh is key to maintaining your focus and consistency on the field.In this episode of Life Behind Home Plate, we’re diving into the best ways to stay sharp all season long, including:⚾ How to maintain your physical conditioning without burning out⚾ Mental strategies to stay focused during long games and tough situations⚾ The importance of rest, recovery, and off-field balance⚾ Building a support syst...
2025-04-0222 minThat's Strike 3Life Behind Home Plate: Breaking Down Sliding Rules in High School Baseball (NFHS)🎙️ New Episode: Breaking Down Sliding Rules in High School Baseball (NFHS) ⚾️In this episode of Life Behind Home Plate, we’re taking a deep dive into the sliding rules under NFHS guidelines. Understanding what makes a slide legal—or illegal—can make all the difference in managing a clean and safe game.💥 What You’ll Learn:✅ The difference between legal and illegal slides.✅ How to identify and handle malicious contact.✅ Pro tips for umpires to position themselves for the best angle on close plays.Whether you’re a seasoned umpire or just st...
2025-03-2614 minLife Behind Home PlateLife Behind Home Plate: Breaking Down Sliding Rules in High School Baseball (NFHS)🎙️ New Episode: Breaking Down Sliding Rules in High School Baseball (NFHS) ⚾️In this episode of Life Behind Home Plate, we’re taking a deep dive into the sliding rules under NFHS guidelines. Understanding what makes a slide legal—or illegal—can make all the difference in managing a clean and safe game.💥 What You’ll Learn:✅ The difference between legal and illegal slides.✅ How to identify and handle malicious contact.✅ Pro tips for umpires to position themselves for the best angle on close plays.Whether you’re a seasoned umpire or just st...
2025-03-2614 minThat's Strike 3Lessons from the First Week: Blowouts, Ejections, and Managing the GameI am excited to drop a brand-new episode of Life Behind Home Plate tomorrow! This week, I’m breaking down the first week of the season—and it was a wild one!⚾️ JV Game Recap: A 31-0 blowout after 4 innings.⚾️ Varsity Game Recap: A tight 7-5 battle that included 2 ejections for unsportsmanlike language.⚾️ Key Learnings: How I’m working to be more efficient and effective with game management—tracking subs, warming up pitchers, and keeping conversations with coaches focused and concise.⚾️ Rule Breakdown: We’re diving into Rule 3.4 on Charged Conferences—what you need to know about...
2025-03-1920 minLife Behind Home PlateLessons from the First Week: Blowouts, Ejections, and Managing the GameI am excited to drop a brand-new episode of Life Behind Home Plate tomorrow! This week, I’m breaking down the first week of the season—and it was a wild one!⚾️ JV Game Recap: A 31-0 blowout after 4 innings.⚾️ Varsity Game Recap: A tight 7-5 battle that included 2 ejections for unsportsmanlike language.⚾️ Key Learnings: How I’m working to be more efficient and effective with game management—tracking subs, warming up pitchers, and keeping conversations with coaches focused and concise.⚾️ Rule Breakdown: We’re diving into Rule 3.4 on Charged Conferences—what you need to know about...
2025-03-1920 minLife Behind Home PlateBe a Great PartnerWelcome to Life Behind Home Plate, the podcast where we dive into the world of baseball umpiring—one call, one game, and one lesson at a time. I'm John, your host, and today we're talking about one of the most critical aspects of umpiring: being a good partner.Umpiring isn’t a solo act. Whether you're working a two-man crew or part of a larger officiating team, your success on the field depends just as much on your ability to work with your partner as it does on your ability to call balls and strikes. A strong part...
2025-03-1216 minThat's Strike 3Be a Great PartnerWelcome to Life Behind Home Plate, the podcast where we dive into the world of baseball umpiring—one call, one game, and one lesson at a time. I'm John, your host, and today we're talking about one of the most critical aspects of umpiring: being a good partner.Umpiring isn’t a solo act. Whether you're working a two-man crew or part of a larger officiating team, your success on the field depends just as much on your ability to work with your partner as it does on your ability to call balls and strikes. A strong part...
2025-03-1216 min2025-03-0523 minLife Behind Home PlateBaseball season is here!Let's break down a check list for a home plate umpire!
2025-03-0523 minThat's Strike 3Common Rule Myths🎙️ Welcome to Life Behind Home Plate! ⚾I’m your host, John, and whether you’re a seasoned umpire, a curious fan, or someone who just loves the quirks of baseball, you’re in the right place. Each episode, we dive into the fascinating—and often bizarre—world of play situations and rules that make our favorite game so unique.Today, we’re tackling three of the strangest scenarios you might see on the field and breaking down the most commonly misapplied rules. From the double-play drama to tag-up tangles, we’ll clear the confusion and bring clarity to the...
2025-01-1624 minLife Behind Home PlateCommon Rule Myths🎙️ Welcome to Life Behind Home Plate! ⚾I’m your host, John, and whether you’re a seasoned umpire, a curious fan, or someone who just loves the quirks of baseball, you’re in the right place. Each episode, we dive into the fascinating—and often bizarre—world of play situations and rules that make our favorite game so unique.Today, we’re tackling three of the strangest scenarios you might see on the field and breaking down the most commonly misapplied rules. From the double-play drama to tag-up tangles, we’ll clear the confusion and bring clarity to the...
2025-01-1624 minThat's Strike 3Obstruction vs. InterferenceUmpires, coaches, players, and fans—do you know the difference between obstruction and interference? 🤔 These two rules are often confused but can make or break a game when the call matters most!In the latest episode of "Behind the Plate," I break down these crucial NFHS rules, share clear definitions, and walk through real-life case plays to help you understand the nuances of each. Whether you're on the field or in the stands, this episode will sharpen your baseball IQ and give you the confidence to make—or trust—the right call.💡 Highlights:✅ NFHS definitio...
2025-01-1022 minLife Behind Home PlateObstruction vs. InterferenceUmpires, coaches, players, and fans—do you know the difference between obstruction and interference? 🤔 These two rules are often confused but can make or break a game when the call matters most!In the latest episode of "Behind the Plate," I break down these crucial NFHS rules, share clear definitions, and walk through real-life case plays to help you understand the nuances of each. Whether you're on the field or in the stands, this episode will sharpen your baseball IQ and give you the confidence to make—or trust—the right call.💡 Highlights:✅ NFHS definitio...
2025-01-1022 minThat's Strike 3Getting Ready for the Season🎙️ Welcome to "Life Behind the Plate," the podcast where we step into the world of umpires and uncover what it takes to stand tall behind the dish. Whether you're a seasoned veteran, a rookie behind the plate, or someone just fascinated by the game, this is the place for you.⚾ As the crack of the bat echoes and the season approaches, we know one truth: a great season starts with a solid pre-season. In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into the importance of preparation. From sharpening our mechanics and reviewing the rulebook to ensuring we’re physically...
2025-01-0316 minLife Behind Home PlateGetting Ready for the Season🎙️ Welcome to "Life Behind the Plate," the podcast where we step into the world of umpires and uncover what it takes to stand tall behind the dish. Whether you're a seasoned veteran, a rookie behind the plate, or someone just fascinated by the game, this is the place for you.⚾ As the crack of the bat echoes and the season approaches, we know one truth: a great season starts with a solid pre-season. In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into the importance of preparation. From sharpening our mechanics and reviewing the rulebook to ensuring we’re physically...
2025-01-0316 minLife Behind Home PlateEpisode 2: Why become an umpire?Step into the world of high school baseball umpiring with Life Behind Home Plate. This podcast highlights the rewarding journey of calling balls and strikes, sharing insider stories, tips, and the top reasons why you should consider becoming an umpire. From staying close to the game you love to building confidence and community, discover how life behind home plate is more than just a job—it’s a passion. Whether you're a baseball fan, curious about officiating, or ready to take on the challenge, this podcast is your guide to stepping onto the field with purpose.
2024-12-1811 minThat's Strike 3Episode 2: Why become an umpire?Step into the world of high school baseball umpiring with Life Behind Home Plate. This podcast highlights the rewarding journey of calling balls and strikes, sharing insider stories, tips, and the top reasons why you should consider becoming an umpire. From staying close to the game you love to building confidence and community, discover how life behind home plate is more than just a job—it’s a passion. Whether you're a baseball fan, curious about officiating, or ready to take on the challenge, this podcast is your guide to stepping onto the field with purpose.
2024-12-1811 minLife Behind Home PlateEpisode 1 - WelcomeIn this inaugural episode, I introduce the podcast and share my vision for Life Behind Home Plate. Learn what inspired me to start this journey, the types of stories and insights you can expect, and why umpiring is more than just making calls—it’s about confidence, resilience, and a love for the game. Join me as we kick off this adventure together!
2024-12-1009 minThat's Strike 3Episode 1 - WelcomeIn this inaugural episode, I introduce the podcast and share my vision for Life Behind Home Plate. Learn what inspired me to start this journey, the types of stories and insights you can expect, and why umpiring is more than just making calls—it’s about confidence, resilience, and a love for the game. Join me as we kick off this adventure together!
2024-12-1009 min
Johnny Wrestling2024 WWE DraftWho should be called up from NXT to the Main Roster? Who would go down and who needs to switch brands? In this podcast I discuss who I am would move, and why!
2024-04-2712 minJohnny WrestlingIs Becky Lynch the "correct" choice?Yesterday, Becky Lynch won the Women's World Championship, but was it the correct decision? Let's take a moment a disect the choice.
2024-04-2406 minJohnny WrestlingWho will be the next Raw Women's Champion?With Rhea Riley having to give up the title, due to injury, what superstars are contenders and pretenders for the title?
2024-04-2115 minJohnny WrestlingWhat is happening with the Rock and Cody Rhodes??Let's talk about what is happening with Cody Rhodes and the Rock!
2024-02-0610 minJohnny WrestlingReview of the 2024 Royal RumbleWe have begun the road to Wrestlemania. Let's talk about the Royal Rumble 2024.
2024-01-3122 minJohnny WrestlingThings the WWE needs to do in 2024Let's chat about what they WWE need to change in 2024! Here are my Top 5 things that need to happen.
2023-12-2916 minJohnny WrestlingReview of NXT Deadline 2023Let's take a look back and grade the matches for NXT Deadline 2023.
2023-12-1115 minJohnny WrestlingNXT Deadline 2023 PredictionsThe final WWE PLE is tomorrow evening: NXT Deadline! Here are my predictions.
2023-12-0815 minJohnny Wrestling3 Problems that AEW Needs to Fix ASAP2023 hasn't been too good for AEW. Attendance is down, TV viewship is down, and they are struggling to attract new fans. In this podcast I discuss 3 problems that they need to address ASAP to correct their path in 2024.
2023-12-0712 min2023-12-0213 minJohnny WrestlingThe Journey Starts Here! (Episode 1)Wecolme y'all to the Johnny Wrestling Podcast. In this podcast I will introduced myself and tell you about why I started this podcast. I hope you enjoy!
2023-12-0109 min