PicklePod

PicklePod 2.0 is presented by Marek Health. Use our code THEDINK for 10% off your $299 Intake Assessment at https://MarekHealth.com/ This week on the PicklePod, Nico and Zane break down the Proton controversy, rumors of unpaid players, and what the UPA crackdown could mean for the future of the sport. Then things get even crazier as they build the Mount Rushmore of Pickleball Fraud & Shadiness—from questionable companies to wild tournament promises that never happened. Plus: - A $600K amateur tournament?! 🤯 - Nico’s “Lefty Reset” weight loss challenge (and questionable strategy) - The best banned paddles of all time - And way too much discussion about Ben & Jerry’s Let us know in the comments: 👉 What’s the shadiest moment in pickleball history? 👉 Favorite banned paddle? 👉 Over/under: Nico loses 30 lbs? Be the first to try Zane's new course here: https://tzpickleball.com/ #Pickleball #PPATour #PickleballPodcast Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedink.beehiiv.com https://www.instagram.com/thedinkpickleball/ -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball #pickleball #pickleballcourts ------------------ 0:00 Intro 3:15 Proton battling fraud allegations 7:13 Will Proton paddles get more expensive? 12:04 The Mt. Rushmore of Pickleball Frauds 16:04 Nico’s weight loss challenge 34:24 Zane holding a grudge with St. George 38:51 Chris Haworth claims the No.1 spot 43:02 Join the pro pickleball conversation on Discord 46:37 Tempers flared at PPA Black Rock 51:25 They need a go-to “play” 1:01:57 Zane doubles down on ALW vs Serena 1:06:60 PPA Asia Preview 1:15:50 Guess my DUPR MiLP Nationals Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

PicklePod 2.0 is presented by Marek Health. Use our code THEDINK for 10% off your $299 Intake Assessment at https://MarekHealth.com/ This week on the PicklePod, we’re joined by one of the most outspoken and unfiltered voices in pro pickleball — Lea Jansen. From her viral Newport outburst to calling out the “Karen Rules Committee,” Lea pulls back the curtain on the chaos behind the scenes of pro pickleball. We dive deep into the controversial player council, fines, paddle tosses, and whether players should really be policing other players. But it’s not all drama… Lea also gets brutally honest about: Why screaming “COME ON” in rec play is a dead giveaway you’re an amateur - The mental battle of facing Anna Leigh Waters - What it actually feels like to play against the most dominant player in the sport - How pickleball politics are evolving (and where they’re falling short) Plus, we get into trolls, social media clapbacks, and the unwritten rules of pickleball etiquette that might need to be enforced ASAP. This episode is raw, hilarious, and packed with insight you won’t hear anywhere else. 👇 Drop a comment: Should pro pickleball be played indoors or outdoors?. Be the first to try Zane's new course here: https://tzpickleball.com/ #Pickleball #PPATour #PickleballPodcast Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedink.beehiiv.com https://www.instagram.com/thedinkpickleball/ -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball #pickleball #pickleballcourts ------------------ 0:00 Intro 0:49 Lea lights up Nico Mid-Match 5:39 Where did the committee come from? 11:58 Should active players be on the committee? 15:36 All players can provide input 18:59 Only the fining committee can actually fine players 22:49 Lea calls for an open forum for player input 29:17 Who has the time? + High school superlatives 33:36 Rec play pet peeves 37:11 Pickleball court - addressing the trolls 41:13 Questions from the audience 48:00 Who is the next player to best Anna Leigh Waters? 57:40 Zane's ref controversy 1:06:42 Guess my DUPR 1:09:07 Podcast beef Shawn Wells 1:19:57 Introducing Shawn Wells 1:32:19 Why people started drinking Gatorade 1:35:32 The benefits of Taurine and creatine 1:40:08 Getting nutrients from your diet 1:43:00 Paraxanthine in Slammit Focus 1:49:19 Shawn's Slammit Story Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

PicklePod 2.0 is presented by Marek Health. Use our code THEDINK for 10% off your $299 Intake Assessment at https://MarekHealth.com/ What happens when pickleball chaos meets global expansion? 🌎 This week on the PicklePod, we’re joined by Steve Kuhn for a deep dive into what might be the future of pickleball—and it’s happening in Asia. We cover everything from: - The INSANE wind conditions at the PPA Texas Open 🌪️ - The first-ever triple pickle in pro history (yes… 11-0, 0-11, 11-0 🤯) - Whether pickleball should go fully indoor like basketball - The explosive growth of pickleball in the Philippines, Vietnam, and beyond Steve Kuhn’s new Pickleball Champions League (PCL) and why it could change everything A wild new concept: predicting sports like a game (SportsPredict) Plus, Nico announces his Lefty Reset Challenge—a 60-day transformation to prove pickleball players are athletes 💪 This episode is equal parts chaos, insight, and big-picture thinking for where the sport is headed next. 👇 Drop a comment: Should pro pickleball be played indoors or outdoors?. Be the first to try Zane's new course here: https://tzpickleball.com/ #Pickleball #PPATour #PickleballPodcast Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedink.beehiiv.com https://www.instagram.com/thedinkpickleball/ -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball #pickleball #pickleballcourts ------------------ 0:00 Intro 1:21 Extreme winds at the Texas Open 5:12 Should pickleball be an indoor sport? 12:00 The first ever singles triple pickle 18:33 Mean comments from Reddit + Nico’s weight loss challenge Steve Kuhn 25:52 Steve Kuhn returns to the PicklePod 26:40 Steve’s new project - Pickleball Champions League 32:34 Growth statistics in Asian pickleball 37:26 PCL borrowing from Futbol roots 45:53 Introducing Sports Predict 50:45 I want to emulate Chess.com 57:29 Obsessed with making the best predictions 1:00:05 Sports Predict entering pro pickleball 1:03:11 Consulting for Ramsports 1:04:23 400 million players by 2032 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

PicklePod 2.0 is presented by Marek Health. Use our code THEDINK for 10% off your $299 Intake Assessment at https://MarekHealth.com/ Table tennis superstar and viral content creator Adam Bobrow joins the PicklePod to talk about his surprising dive into pickleball—and what the sport can learn from the global growth of ping pong. Bobrow, one of the most recognizable personalities in table tennis, shares how he built an audience of millions, why he initially resisted pickleball, and what finally changed his mind once he stepped on the court. But first… the guys recap one of the most chaotic tournament weekends in recent memory. From Nico’s first PPA tournament in two years, to a match-ending Nasty Nelson attempt, to accusations of “no honor” on court 19, the Newport Beach event delivered peak unhinged pickleball. Meanwhile, pro drama was brewing with timeout tactics, loud grunting, and mental warfare between top singles stars like Hunter Johnson and Federico Staksrud. Plus: - The Mount Rushmore of unhinged pickleball players - The psychology behind gamesmanship in pickleball - Why millions of people play but don’t watch the pro game -What pickleball can learn from the growth of table tennis - Bobrow’s first experiences playing against pros like Anna Bright, Christian Alshon, and Ben Johns If you love pickleball stories, inside pro tour drama, and the future of the sport—this episode is a must-watch. Subscribe for weekly pickleball stories, interviews, and debates from the PicklePod. Be the first to try Zane's new course here: https://tzpickleball.com/ #Pickleball #PPATour #PickleballPodcast Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedink.beehiiv.com https://www.instagram.com/thedinkpickleball/ -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball #pickleball #pickleballcourts ------------------ 0:00 Intro 2:06 Story time with Nico in Newport 10:15 The correct way to throw a paddle 12:58 Nico learns the Rob Cassidy timeout 18:05 Mt Rushmore of unhinged players 22:02 Headlines from the Newport Beach Open Adam Bobrow 30:01 Adam Bobrow joins the pod 30:34 Paddle vs Bat | Ping Pong vs Table Tennis 35:51 Bridging the gap between rec players and the pro game 41:32 There are levels to this game 43:44 Adding personality into sports viewing experience 49:21 How has your audience responded to the pickleball content? 52:16 Adam is invited to girls' night with Mari Humberg 55:45 Who is still on the dream guest list? 58:33 Zane saw vs snake shot 1:06:03 Guess my DUPR - Double Tweener 1:10:55 Zane tests his table tennis broadcast abilities Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Emergency pod activated. 🚨 We just got off the phone with Duc — father, manager, and mastermind behind Quang Duong (QD) — to break down the shocking APP announcement and what it really means. Is this another tour war? Did QD actually “sign” with the Association of Pickleball Players (APP)? Is the door closed with the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA)? And what actually happened behind the scenes at the Masters? Duc didn’t hold back. He explains: - Why QD’s APP deal is non-exclusive - What really broke negotiations with the PPA - Why Asia is the future of pickleball (and why tours are scrambling) - The “disrespect” that changed everything - Whether QD could still play PPA events this year There’s talk of sponsors pulling out, Asia-based investors stepping in, government pressure, and a candid breakdown of how tours operate differently in the U.S. vs. Asia. If you’ve been confused by the graphics, the “signed” language, and the sudden wave of APP announcements — this episode clears it all up. Strap in. This one got real. Be the first to try Zane's new course here: https://tzpickleball.com/ #Pickleball #PPATour #PickleballPodcast Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedink.beehiiv.com -Follow us on IG https://www.instagram.com/thedinkpickleball/ -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball #pickleball #pickleballcourts ------------------ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

PicklePod 2.0 is presented by Marek Health. Use our code THEDINK for 10% off your $299 Intake Assessment at https://MarekHealth.com/ The MLP draft just BROKE the internet… and we’re unpacking all of it. From Anna Bright going for over $1 million to the Dallas Flash meltdown, this Major League Pickleball offseason might be more entertaining than the actual matches. We break down the bidding wars, the strategy behind youth vs. win-now rosters, whether Jack Sock is still a “fool me three times” situation, and why MLP might desperately need a salary cap (and floor). Then things get unhinged. James Ignatowich returns to the pod to talk about: - His UPA contract termination - Building RPM from scratch - Selling 10,000 paddles in a month - Why he’s moving to China - Getting blocked by the PPA - Whether he’s ever playing pro again - And yes… the Johnson siblings rumors We also dive into: - The new post-match cheating fines system - Why more transparency could grow the game - Whether one superstar pro is worth the ROI for a paddle brand - And the wild reality of manufacturing in China - This one is chaotic, honest, and surprisingly insightful. Be the first to try Zane's new course here: https://tzpickleball.com/ #Pickleball #PPATour #PickleballPodcast Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedink.beehiiv.com https://www.instagram.com/thedinkpickleball/ -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball #pickleball #pickleballcourts ------------------ 0:00 Intro 2:36 Anna Bright draws $1.23 million bid 6:24 The Flash miss out on Jorja Johnson and new salary cap ideas 11:40 More surprises from the MLP Draft 16:49 Trade targets and sharing auction prices 20:21 Zane optimistic on cheating penalties James Ignatowich 25:55 James Ignatowich joins the show 27:43 RPM spawned out of dopamine detox 34:24 Building a cult following 38:39 Banned on social media 42:36 Why James was terminated 45:01 James sells Zane on moving to China 47:00 Questions from the audience 56:35 The “Jade” paddle story 58:53 John Kew’s decision to donate 3:04 Drafting paddles that impacted pickleball history Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nico the Lefty reacts to the massive moves in the 2026 Major League Pickleball Draft. Anna Bright goes for $1.23 Million, Jorja Johnson says bye-bye to big bro and joins Gary Vee and Anna Leigh Waters in Clown Town. Plus the MLP youth movement is in full effect. More Teams are taking chances on teenage players both international and domestic. There’s a completely new way to optimize your health. Give Blue Cannatine a try at https://troscriptions.com/DINK or enter BETTER at checkout for 10% off your first order. Be the first to try Zane's new course here: https://tzpickleball.com/#Pickleball #PPATour #PickleballPodcast Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' free e-newsletter at https://www.thedink.beehiiv.com / thedinkpickleball -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: / thedi. . -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball #pickleball #pickleballcourts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

PicklePod 2.0 is presented by Marek Health. Use our code THEDINK for 10% off your $299 Intake Assessment at https://MarekHealth.com/ The funniest guy in pickleball has a story you probably didn’t see coming. This week on the PicklePod, we sit down with Evan Slaughter (@fit2serve1) — creator, comedian, CrossFit athlete, and Purple Heart recipient — to unpack the journey behind the viral videos. Before the stinky dinky… before the shirtless skits… before the millions of views… there was Afghanistan. Evan opens up about: - Serving as an infantryman in Afghanistan - Surviving an IED explosion and receiving a Purple Heart - Struggling with opioid addiction after returning home - Learning pickleball in rehab - How humor helped him heal - Turning TikTok videos into a full-time career - Creator vs pro influence in the paddle world - The business side of brands like Volair Pickleball - The future of pickleball in pop culture (including Apple TV+’s upcoming pickleball movie) This episode goes way deeper than social media clips. It’s about resilience, recovery, and how pickleball can literally change a life. If you’ve ever laughed at a Fit2Serve video, this is the story behind it. There’s a completely new way to optimize your health. Give Blue Cannatine a try at https://troscriptions.com/DINK or enter BETTER at checkout for 10% off your first order. Follow Evan at https://www.instagram.com/fit2serve1/ Be the first to try Zane's new course here: https://tzpickleball.com/ #Pickleball #PPATour #PickleballPodcast Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedink.beehiiv.com https://www.instagram.com/thedinkpickleball/ -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball #pickleball #pickleballcourts ------------------ 0:00 The only 8.0 player in the world 3:33 When will Anna Leigh steal Big H? 5:59 The greatest motivator in pro pickleball 10:23 Women’s doubles matchup we’ve been waiting for 15:10 Is Anna Leigh bad for the game? 19:36 Evan Slaughter joins the podcast 22:04 Purple Heart heroics 32:32 He discovered pickleball in rehab 38:37 Who moves more paddles, pros or creators? 46:10 Evan should be the lead in The Dink movie 56:17 Pickleball marathon and the 11 beer challenge 1:03:37 Evan’s new signature shot 1:09:03 Is celebrating after the dome shot bad etiquette? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

PicklePod 2.0 is presented by Marek Health. Use our code THEDINK for 10% off your $299 Intake Assessment at https://MarekHealth.com/ The PicklePod is back on The Dink Pickleball YouTube channel with one of our most wide-ranging episodes yet. This week we cover: MLP Trade Deadline Fallout Ana Bright. Georgia Johnson. Jack Sock. Major names dropped ahead of the deadline. We break down which teams won, which teams fumbled the bag, and whether Major League Pickleball just reshaped the power structure for 2026. Pickleball and the Olympics Are we overhyping the Olympic dream? Would 2032 in Australia change everything for the sport — or is the pro tour already the real prize? We debate what Olympic inclusion would actually mean for player development and global growth. Does Pickleball Need an All-Star Weekend? If the NBA can reinvent its format, why can’t we? From Ernie contests to reset challenges and paddle toss competitions, we design what a true pickleball skills showcase could look like. Grayson Goldin Update We react to the news of Grayson’s stroke, discuss player health coverage in pro pickleball, and send our support as he works toward a full recovery. The Dink Awards Finale We wrap up the 2025 Dink Awards with: - Best Facilities across the country - Best International Tournament - Paddle Reviewer of the Year - Paddle of the Year And yes, things get a little spicy during the paddle reviewer segment. We also sit down with APP Chief Marketing Officer Tom Webb for a direct conversation about the future of the APP, the evolving pro landscape, and where the sport is headed long term. Drop your thoughts in the comments: What would you include in a pickleball All-Star competition? Subscribe, leave a review, and share this with the doubles partner who still doesn’t understand pro pickleball. 120/Life is a once-a-day functional drink made with ingredients that help support healthy blood pressure. Listeners get 20% off their entire order with code DINK at https://www.120life.com/ Be the first to try Zane's new course here: https://tzpickleball.com/ #Pickleball #PPATour #PickleballPodcast Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedink.beehiiv.com https://www.instagram.com/thedinkpickleball/ -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball #pickleball #pickleballcourts ------------------ 0:00 Intro 3:12 The Palm Beach Royals won the trade deadline 5:18 Anna Bright and Jorja Johnson dropped from MLP team 14:59 Do the Olympics matter? 19:41 Pickleball is like curling for the summer games 22:52 All-Star Game and skills competition for pickleball 29:03 Thoughts and prayers to Grayson Goldin 32:44 The 120Life Dink Awards conclusion 41:24 Paddle Reviewer and Paddle of the Year 48:59 Tom Webb joins the PicklePod 50:15 Sofia Sewing under the Will Howells contract 56:42 Do you need a big name to attract the audience? 1:00:44 What will the APP look like in 2030? 1:04:10 Who will be the winner in 10 years? 1:11:00 Rapid-fire questions from the listeners Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

PicklePod 2.0 is presented by Marek Health. Use our code THEDINK for 10% off your $299 Intake Assessment at https://MarekHealth.com/ In this episode of the Picklepod, we’re joined by Tanner Tomasi, calling in from India at 4:30 PM while Zane grinds at 6 a.m. and Nico barely keeps his eyes open at 3 a.m. 🌍☕ Tanner breaks down his experience competing in the World Pickleball League, including the unique format, 18 straight days of matches, and what it was like playing against elite international talent — plus Eric Lang’s final pro tournament ever. From there, the conversation takes a sharp turn into one of our hottest debates yet: Is doubles pickleball closer to professional gaming than tennis? We dive into reaction time, pattern recognition, neuroplasticity, and why former gamers may actually have an edge at the highest level of the sport. Tanner also opens up about his journey from full-time Fortnite streamer to pro pickleball player and content creator, sharing hard-earned lessons on social media growth, consistency, YouTube strategy, and why the packaging of content matters more than most people realize. Finally, we roll into the Dink Awards, spotlighting the most influential voices, best on-air personalities, and top pickleball podcasts — with plenty of opinions, debates, and classic Picklepod chaos along the way. This one hits pro pickleball, content creation, gaming crossover, and the future of the sport — don’t miss it. Maui Nui Venison has more protein per calorie than just about anything else out there, and it tastes unreal. Order your Ohana Reserve Box today and receive a free 12-pack of jerky sticks http://mauinuivenison.com/THEDINK Follow Tanner https://www.instagram.com/tanner.pickleball/ Be the first to try Zane's new course here: https://tzpickleball.com/ #Pickleball #PPATour #PickleballPodcast Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedink.beehiiv.com https://www.instagram.com/thedinkpickleball/ -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball #pickleball #pickleballcourts ------------------ 0:00 Tanner Calls In From India: World Pickleball League Explained 3:04 Does Pickleball Need a Mercy Rule? (7–0 Skunk Debate) 8:00 Tanner’s Background: From Fortnite Streaming to Pickleball 17:27 Discovering a niche in pickleball content 23:30 Who will be the Mr. Beast of pickleball? 27:01 The 120Life Dink Awards Most Influential Voice 34:53 Best On-air Personality and who you want to see in the booth 41:55 Podcast of the Year and the co-host tournament challenge 49:59 Pickleball YouTuber of the Year Award and Best Instructor 53:27 Content Creator of the Year completes the triple crown 58:39 The Viral Moment of the Year Award 1:05:31 Pickleball Journalist of the Year Award 1:07:02 Does pickleball have its Super Bowl event? 1:14:38 Start every match with a Nasty Nelson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

PicklePod 2.0 is presented by Marek Health. Use our code THEDINK for 10% off your $299 Intake Assessment at https://MarekHealth.com/ On this episode of the PicklePod, Nico and Zane are joined by Anna Bright for a wide-ranging (and slightly chaotic) conversation that dives into hot takes, hot debates, and the latest from the pro pickleball world. Anna explains why she believes there’s a legitimate argument that Gabe Tardio might be the best men’s doubles player right now, even in a world where Ben Johns still reigns supreme. The crew debates whether the right-side player is becoming more important than the left, breaks down ideal pairings to challenge Ben & Gabe, and power-ranks potential teams heading into the season. They also recap the first wave of the Dink Awards, including Player of the Year, Breakout Player, Fan Favorite, and more — plus Anna reacts to being nominated in seven categories and winning Fan Favorite Player. On the content side, Anna opens up about the growth of her newsletter and social presence, what motivated her to start creating more off-court content, and how she balances being a pro athlete with being a content creator. Naturally, things spiral into typing-speed competitions, Reddit beef, and questionable hypotheticals. Topics include: • Is Gabe Tardio the best men’s doubles player in the world? • Right-side vs left-side importance in modern pickleball • Best teams to challenge Ben Johns & Gabe Tardio • Dink Awards winners and surprises • Anna Bright’s rise as a content creator • Fan favorite debates, viral moments, and more Like, subscribe, and drop your hottest takes in the comments — especially if you disagree with Anna. 😅 Maui Nui Venison has more protein per calorie than just about anything else out there, and it tastes unreal. Order your Ohana Reserve Box today and receive a free 12-pack of jerky sticks http://mauinuivenison.com/THEDINK Blue Cannatine from Troscriptions is designed to support the mental and physical flow state that pickleball players chase: focused, responsive, smooth, and adaptable — without jitters, crashes, or chaos. Try it today at https://troscriptions.com/dink Be the first to try Zane's new course here: https://tzpickleball.com/ #Pickleball #PPATour #PickleballPodcast Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedink.beehiiv.com https://www.instagram.com/thedinkpickleball/ -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball #pickleball #pickleballcourts ------------------ 0:00 Intro 2:11 Gabe Tardio GOAT debate 5:37 A diabolical typo 8:18 The right side player defines a partnership 13:56 Hypothetical team to beat the best 18:47 120Life Dink Awards winners 25:32 Anna is leaning into the content game 36:18 Men's and Women's Player of the Year 38:11 The gap between #2 and the rest of the field 42:55 Men's and Women's Breakout Player of the Year 47:16 Upset of the Year - Anti-ball knower allegations 49:57 Fan favorite and Best On-court Personality 56:56 Zane snubbed on Best Dressed Player of the Year 1:00:30 MLP Preseason is underway 1:04:40 Zane traded and will Anna get dropped? 1:11:03 Mean tweets from AB 1:17:16 Pickleball Court - No games after clinics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

PicklePod 2.0 is presented by Marek Health. Use our code THEDINK for 10% off your $299 Intake Assessment at https://MarekHealth.com/ Chaos in Minnesota, a brand-new singles court experiment, a potential “pickleball competitor” sport, and one of the wildest medical timeout moments we’ve seen on tour… this episode has it all. Zane and Nico break down everything that went down at the PPA Minnesota Challenger, including huge upsets, the rise of 14-year-old phenom Cam Chaffin, and why the new narrowed singles court could fundamentally change the way singles pickleball is played. They also debate whether shrinking the court is the right solution, what the PPA is really trying to accomplish with singles, and if we’re headed toward a future with fewer (or no) triple crowns. Plus, the guys react to the viral medical timeout involving Andre and Gabe, discuss the unwritten rules of being a good pickleball partner, unpack the buzz around the new sport “Tipti,” and hit Guess My Duper, Pickleball Court, and more. If you like hot takes, rule debates, and behind-the-scenes pro tour stories, you’re in the right place. 👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your thoughts in the comments — should pickleball shrink the singles court? Maui Nui Venison has more protein per calorie than just about anything else out there, and it tastes unreal. Order your Ohana Reserve Box today and receive a free 12-pack of jerky sticks http://mauinuivenison.com/THEDINK Blue Cannatine from Troscriptions is designed to support the mental and physical flow state that pickleball players chase: focused, responsive, smooth, and adaptable — without jitters, crashes, or chaos. Try it today at https://troscriptions.com/dink Be the first to try Zane's new course here: https://tzpickleball.com/ #Pickleball #PPATour #PickleballPodcast Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedink.beehiiv.com https://www.instagram.com/thedinkpickleball/ -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball #pickleball #pickleballcourts ------------------ 0:00 Intro 4:02 The next ‘chubby’ singles court 10:35 A different ball for singles 16:10 Typti is gaining momentum 21:15 Everybody was sick in Minnesota 23:47 Pickleball Court - Abusing the medical timeout 28:04 Unwritten rules for good partners 33:19 Using Pickleball Survivor theory to weed out the cheaters 40:22 14yo Camden Chaffin’s breakout weekend 46:06 Alshon & Black win and break up 57:04 Arnold’s paddle throw lands in the crowd 1:05:54 Blind ranking iconic crashouts 1:09:30 Mean comments and Guess My DUPR Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

PicklePod 2.0 is presented by Marek Health. Use our code THEDINK for 10% off your $299 Intake Assessment at https://MarekHealth.com/ This week on The PicklePod, we’re joined by pro pickleball player Blaine Hovenier for a wide-ranging episode packed with tour stories, hot takes, and behind-the-scenes chaos from the Masters. Zane and Nico break down everything that went down at the Masters—from heated on-court moments and crowd chirping, to new paddle deals shaking up the pro scene. Blaine shares stories from competing at the highest level, what it’s like adjusting to new partnerships, and why high-variance pickleball might be the only way to challenge the top teams. The crew also dives deep into Major League Pickleball’s new format, including substitutions, expanded playoffs, and whether singles specialists are about to change the Dreambreaker forever. Plus, Nico relives the painful moment he realized he missed an email that could’ve made him an MLP GM. Other topics include: - New paddle deals and which switches actually mattered - Whether Ben Johns wins another singles gold - Jack Sock’s ceiling in pro pickleball - Anna Leigh Waters’ dominance (and who could possibly stop her) - The lob serve debate 🔥 - Minnesota weather, rental car danger, and elite sideline vibes It’s part pickleball analysis, part story time, and fully unfiltered. Like, subscribe, and welcome to PicklePod 2.0. Maui Nui Venison has more protein per calorie than just about anything else out there, and it tastes unreal. Order your Ohana Reserve Box today and receive a free 12-pack of jerky sticks http://mauinuivenison.com/THEDINK Be the first to try Zane's new course here: https://tzpickleball.com/ #Pickleball #PPATour #PickleballPodcast Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedink.beehiiv.com https://www.instagram.com/thedinkpickleball/ -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball #pickleball #pickleballcourts ------------------ 0:00 Nico’s weather report 5:13 MLP’s new rule rollout 10:59 Tournaments are back in MLP 17:23 Blaine inks deal with Six Zero 19:35 New paddles debuted at Masters 21:41 Early round action for team Blaine/Zane 26:46 The high percentage strategy against Ben 33:24 Jack Sock almost broke Nico 38:18 ALW’s 40 triple crown 42:55 Is the lob serve here to stay? 46:10 Pros vs the weather in Minnesota 58:38 Pickleball court bodybag edition 1:08:29 The comments section is lit Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices