Few athletes understand what it takes to reach the very top of the sport quite like Leah Amico.
In this episode of When the Cleats Come Off, Ashley sits down with the three-time Olympic gold medalist to talk about the mindset, discipline, and leadership required to compete on the world’s biggest stage. As a member of Team USA’s legendary “Dream Team,” Leah experienced firsthand what it means to pursue excellence not just as an athlete, but as a person.
Throughout the conversation, Leah shares the lessons softball has taught her beyond the field — from the power of goal setting to the character traits that define truly elite competitors.
What It Meant to Play for the Dream Team
Representing your country at the Olympic Games is the dream of many athletes, but few ever reach that stage.
Leah reflects on her time with the United States Women's National Softball Team, where she helped lead the team to multiple Olympic gold medals. Competing alongside some of the greatest players in the sport, she learned how preparation, accountability, and shared purpose helped shape one of the most dominant teams in softball history.
Those experiences continue to influence the way she approaches leadership and mentorship today.
The Power of Goal Setting
One of the key themes of the conversation is the role that goal setting played in Leah’s success.
She explains how setting clear, meaningful goals gave her direction throughout her career. Rather than focusing only on outcomes, she learned to build daily habits that helped her steadily progress toward those goals.
For young athletes, this approach can transform big dreams into achievable steps.
Lessons Beyond the White Lines
While Leah’s accomplishments on the field are remarkable, many of the lessons she values most came from the experiences surrounding the game.
She shares how softball helped shape her character, teaching her discipline, teamwork, resilience, and humility. These qualities continue to guide her work today as a speaker, mentor, and leader within the softball community.
Traits Every Olympian Shares
Ashley and Leah also discuss the mindset that separates elite athletes from the rest.
According to Leah, Olympians often share common traits — including relentless work ethic, the willingness to embrace challenges, and the ability to stay focused on long-term goals. These qualities aren’t reserved only for elite athletes; they are habits that anyone can develop through intentional effort.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
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What it was like playing on Team USA’s “Dream Team”
Competing at the highest level of international softball. -
How goal setting helped shape Leah’s career
Turning dreams into daily habits. -
The life lessons softball teaches beyond competition
Character, discipline, and teamwork. -
Traits that define elite athletes
Work ethic, resilience, and focus. -
How athletes can apply these lessons to their own journey
Building a foundation for success on and off the field.
About
Leah Amico
Leah Amico is a three-time Olympic gold medalist and one of the most accomplished athletes in the history of softball. As a member of Team USA, she helped lead the United States to multiple Olympic championships and became known for her leadership, work ethic, and commitment to excellence.
Today, Leah continues to impact athletes and teams through speaking, mentoring, and leadership training, helping the next generation pursue success both on and off the field.
Connect with Leah:
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Instagram: @leah20usa
- TikTok: @theleahamico
- Podcast: The Gold Standard with Leah Amico
