Alpha Pickleball Podcast

Welcome back to the Alpha Pickleball Podcast! In this episode, host Tats sits down with Jason Bock, a pro pickleball player balancing competition, career, and fatherhood. Jason shares his journey from tennis to pickleball, the evolution of his game, and key strategies for adapting to different opponents. Tune in for insights on fast hands, court positioning, paddle choices, and how to be a great doubles partner. Let’s dive in!

Host Tats welcomes pro pickleball player Jay Devilliers, who shares his journey from high-level tennis to discovering pickleball in 2019 while working at Chicken N Pickle. He initially learned through trial and error in tournaments, studying top players like Matt Wright, Ben Johns, and Simone Jardim to develop his game.

Jay discusses how paddle technology has changed playstyles, the rise of power and quick hands, and his shift from a patient, dink-heavy approach to a more aggressive, fast-paced game. He breaks down drive-and-crash tactics, evolving strategies, and the importance of adaptability and partner chemistry in doubles.

He also shares insights on training, injury prevention, and mindset, emphasizing staying positive, communication in partnerships, and continuously evolving to stay competitive. Jay expresses his love for team events like MLP, though he believes balancing individual and team formats will shape the sport’s future.

He wraps up with advice for recreational and competitive players—stay adaptable, focus on quick hands, and bring positive energy to every game.

Host Tats interviews pro pickleball player Max Manthou ("Purple Jesus"), who shares the story behind his nickname and his transition from college tennis at UW to pickleball after serving in the Peace Corps. Initially self-taught, Max later refined his game under a coach, focusing on deception, space control, and strategic aggression.

He discusses adapting as a shorter player, using two-handed counters, and the competitive yet cooperative nature of pickleball. Max also introduces his book, A Pickleball Gospel, an anthropological study on the sport’s community, culture, and addictiveness, now available on Amazon.

In this episode of the Alpha Pickleball Podcast, Tats sits down with Anderson Scarpa, a pro pickleball player known for his unconventional style and impressive backhand game. Anderson discusses his journey from Division I tennis to professional pickleball, sharing insights into his unique technique, the evolution of his training routines, and the role of intense drills in developing hand speed and offensive strategies.

In this episode of the Alpha Pickleball Podcast, host Tats is joined by professional pickleball player Wes Burrows. Wes shares his journey from college tennis to discovering pickleball, offering a unique perspective on transitioning between sports and adapting to the evolving demands of professional play. He discusses balancing a demanding career, family life, and competitive play, while shedding light on the impact of paddle technology, strategy shifts, and the influx of young talent in the sport.

Wes also dives into the camaraderie within the pickleball community, his approach to tournament preparation, and his exciting new project, The Wager, a celebrity pickleball TV show. Whether you’re a casual player or a dedicated fan, this episode provides valuable insights into the dynamic world of professional pickleball. Stay tuned for more episodes and stay Alpha on the court!

In this episode of the Alpha Pickleball Podcast, Tats sits down with pro player Chuck Taylor to explore his journey from discovering pickleball in a high school gym class to competing at the professional level. Chuck shares insights on training, strategy, and the evolution of the sport, including the role of stacking, serving techniques, and adapting gameplay for maximum impact. Tune in for a volley of wisdom and fun!

In this episode of the Alpha Pickleball Podcast, host Tats chats with Gabe Joseph, a world-ranked pickleball player and coach. Gabe shares his journey from being a multi-sport athlete and tennis player to becoming a top pro in the dynamic world of pickleball. He dives into his early days discovering the sport, how he quickly rose through the ranks, and what kept him hooked.

Listeners will gain insights into Gabe’s coaching philosophy, his approach to practice and tournament preparation, and the importance of partnerships on and off the court. Whether you’re looking to refine your game, choose the right coach, or explore what it takes to play at the highest level, this episode is packed with valuable tips and strategies for players of all levels.

Join us as PPA pro Casey Diamond shares his journey from playing six sports in high school to becoming a standout pickleball player. Learn how his diverse athletic background shapes his unique playstyle, his mindset strategies for staying cool under pressure, and the rituals that keep him sharp during tournaments. Casey also discusses building chemistry with partners and his plans for upcoming competitions. Whether you're a casual player or a pickleball fanatic, this episode serves up insights to elevate your game! 🎾 #PickleballLife

In this episode of the Alpha Pickleball Podcast, Tats interviews Davi Singh, a national pickleball champion and former tennis player. Davi shares his journey from playing tennis in multiple locations across the U.S. and Canada to discovering and excelling in pickleball. He discusses the differences between tennis and pickleball, his strategic approach to both sports, and the lessons he's learned through competition. Davi also dives into the mental aspects of pickleball, including how to maintain intensity and adapt strategies during matches. He concludes by sharing his goals for the future, including training, competing, and growing the sport through coaching and camps.

4o

In this episode of the Alpha Pickleball Podcast, Tats sits down with Steve Deakin, a professional pickleball player with an impressive tennis background. Steve shares his journey from high-performance tennis, where he competed on international stages, to discovering the exciting world of pickleball. Despite setbacks from serious injuries, Steve found new passion and success in pickleball, becoming a dominant force in the sport. He also discusses his coaching philosophy, the evolving landscape of pickleball in Canada, and the importance of grassroots development to grow the game. This is an inspiring conversation filled with insights for players at every level. Tune in to hear Steve's remarkable story and learn how pickleball is shaping up to be the next big thing in sports.