13 – Built Different, Powered by Grit

The SLIDE Podcast - Youth Baseball & Softball Podcast

Built Different, Powered by Grit

Built Different, Powered by Grit kicks off with a powerful return from the Twinstripe Reporters and TrippDog, bringing their baseball energy and signature fun to the mic. This time, they welcome 14-year-old Hayden Clark, a young athlete whose resilience and heart set him apart in every way. From the moment Hayden shares that he’s a bilateral amputee, it becomes clear this episode isn’t just about baseball — it’s about grit, mindset, and proving the doubters wrong.

Overcoming Doubts and Living the Game

The key phrase takes on new meaning when Hayden reveals how he started playing baseball not just for the love of the game, but to silence those who said he couldn’t. As Tripp puts it, “He’s an 8-Eleven superstar out there.” Hayden, who had both legs amputated at age nine, explains that his drive comes from being told “you can’t.” His story shows how much heart it takes to keep going—and how much fun he has doing it. He even crafted makeshift legs from wood blocks and duct tape just weeks after surgery to walk again. As Hayden says, “Just do it. That was my mindset.”

Baseball, VR, and a Whole Lot of Hustle

Outside the ballfield, Hayden is a VR gamer, a golfer, and a master of MLB The Show, boasting a 99 overall team rating. The crew shares laughs over VR fails and deep dives into positions on the field—Hayden prefers third base and the corners, where the action is fierce. His mindset on the game is unmatched, and he’s even made money from bets with kids who didn’t believe in his abilities.

An Unforgettable Surprise and Big League Dreams

In a heartwarming twist, Hayden is surprised live on the show with a gift box from JH Performance and Rad Woke Up Rad—plus the promise of gear from Bruce Bolt and Easton, and Stinger Spots owner Brandon Eaton shared a great message and is giving Hayden a brand new glove. But the highlight? An invitation from Vincent “The Dancing Umpire” Chapman to a sold-out Savannah Bananas game in Houston, with over 40,000 fans. Hayden’s reaction says it all: “That’s pretty good. Pretty big.”

“What’s the worst that can happen?”

When asked what he’d tell someone scared to chase their dreams, Hayden didn’t hesitate: “Just go practice. You’ll eventually make it if you want it that much.” His confidence, resilience, and humor made this one of the most unforgettable episodes to date. And when asked who inspires him most? “The man in the mirror.” Enough said.

Walkout Song

“Luther” by Kendrick Lamar

Quote from the Guest:“They said I couldn’t play. That’s why I started playing — to prove them wrong.” – Hayden Clark

Check out another inspiring story on our show:Gameface Gracie’s journey in softball

Learn more about adaptive sports resources like NubAbility:NubAbility Athletics Foundation

Follow The SLIDE Podcast!

Please email us with any questions or feedback. Help us grow by leaving a 5-star review and a question—we’ll answer it on the show! You might even get the chance to co-host an episode.

• Email: [email protected]

• Website: www.theslidepodcastshow.com

• All Links: https://linktr.ee/theslidepodcastshow

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theslidepodcastshow

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheSlidePodcast

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theslidepodcastshow/

• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theslidepodcastshow?lang=en

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/theslidepodcast

• X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/theslidepod