Macon to the Mound: Destin Howard’s UGA Journey In this standout episode of The SLIDE Podcast, we highlight “Macon to the Mound” as Georgia Bulldog pitcher Destin Howard steps up to share her journey from hometown hopeful to NCAA competitor. Hosted by Coach Aaron with co-hosts Rachel Garcia and Lily Scott, the episode offers an honest look into life as a D1 softball player, on and off the field. Faith, Family, and Finding Georgia From Macon to the Mound, Destin reveals how UGA wasn’t initially her top choice. That changed when Coach Tony Baldwin took over the program. After visiting campus and feeling divine confirmation, she knew it was the place for her: “Georgia could offer me nothing and I would still come here.” Her story of perseverance through a tough COVID-era recruiting cycle is relatable for young athletes everywhere. Her high school stats back up the hype—500 strikeouts and a powerful presence on the mound that’s now anchoring UGA’s bullpen. Pitching Mindset and NIL Impact Destin has given up only two home runs in college thanks to a killer combo: a screwball that racks up strikes and a drop ball that gets swings and misses. “You have to just let it go,” she says of bouncing back from tough moments. While she used to chase strikeouts, college taught her to pitch for outs—however they come. Off the field, Destin says NIL “truly changed my life.” A marketing major with a future in sales or training, she’s gained confidence by learning to pitch herself as a brand. She dreams of opening her own softball facility and helping the next generation thrive. Training, Transfers, and Pro Goals Destin shares tips for young players like Lily: don’t focus on what school you want—focus on working hard. She also addresses her team’s chemistry, her pitching routines, and how she’s preparing for her senior year. Her ultimate dream? To play pro softball and make a lasting impact on and off the mound. Quote from Destin Howard: “Even though you’re good, you’ve got to work harder.” Walkout Song: “The Largest” by BigXthaPlug Internal Link: Check out our other UGA episode with Alton Davis II. Outbound Link: Learn more about UGA Softball and follow their upcoming season. 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: TheSlidePodcastShow@gmail.com 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