In this episode of Ground Pass, hosts Anastasia and Nick welcome Blair Henley, a prominent figure in tennis media. They discuss Blair's journey from aspiring tennis player to media professional, her experiences in on-court hosting, and the importance of connecting casual fans with the sport. The conversation touches on the challenges of balancing a career in tennis media with family life, the significance of smaller tournaments, and the evolving landscape of tennis, including the impact of pickleball. Blair shares insights on emerging talents in the sport and offers advice for those looking to break into tennis media.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Meet the Professionals

02:00 Blair Henley's Journey in Tennis Media

04:27 Early Aspirations and Career Choices

09:12 Transitioning from Tennis Player to Media Professional

12:15 Finding Passion in a Career

13:51 Advice for Aspiring Tennis Media Professionals

20:00 Proud Moments in Tennis Media

22:55 Connecting Fans to Player Personalities

23:39 Spotlight on Emerging Tennis Stars

30:14 The Art of Interviewing in Tennis

32:29 Challenges of Being a Tennis MC

36:44 The Future of Tennis: Trends and Accessibility

Relevant Links:

• Blair Henley online: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bdhenley || Website: https://www.blairhenley.com/
• Ground Pass Linktree (One Link to rule them all) - https://linktr.ee/GroundPass

Visit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.com

Email us at - [email protected]

Follow us for daily updates on Social:

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_pass

Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.social

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Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPass

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcast

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In this episode, Nick and Anastasia provide a comprehensive wrap-up of the Australian Open, discussing the champions, memorable matches, and the overall tournament experience. They delve into the contrasting narratives of the men's and women's tournaments, highlighting the impact of players like Novak Djokovic and the triumph of Madison Keys & Jannik Sinner. The conversation also touches on the accessibility of the tournament in Melbourne and the excitement surrounding the next generation of tennis players. As they look ahead, they share insights on upcoming tournaments and whats coming up next on Ground Pass.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:49 Insights from Todd Scowler

07:58 Our thoughts of the Australian Open as a tournament

16:04 Thoughts on the Tennis at AO - Men's game

26:05 The Evolution of Coaching in Tennis

29:54 Next Gen Stars Shine at the Australian Open

31:28 Thoughts on the tennis at AO - Women's Game

38:37 Whats coming up on Tour

41:09 Coming Up on Ground Pass

44:23 Players of the Fortnight

Relevant Links:

• Relief links for California Wildfires:
• Tennis Channel - https://www.tennis.com/californiawildfiresrelief
• Tennis Mentor Australian Open vlog - https://youtu.be/OgPg7bFaMXk?si=lsp1RtFpNtE30o_o
• Doubles tournament at AO pod episode with Will Boucek - https://pod.fo/e/2a36bc
• Ground Pass Linktree (One Link to rule them all) - https://linktr.ee/GroundPass

Visit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.com

Email us at - [email protected]

Follow us for daily updates on Social:

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_pass

Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.social

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_pass

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPass

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcast

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In this episode of the Ground Pass podcast, host Anastasia welcomes back Will from Tennis Tribe to discuss the Australian Open, focusing on the doubles tournament. They explore the unique experiences of attending the tournament in Melbourne, the exciting new partnerships forming in doubles, and the standout performances of various teams. The conversation also delves into the state of doubles tennis, discussing the need for better promotion and awareness of the sport, especially during major tournaments. As they wrap up, they reflect on the future of doubles and the importance of recognizing the players' personalities and skills.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

02:19 Will's Australian Open experience 

04:59 Will's thoughts on the doubles tournament

11:33 New Partnerships in Women's Doubles

17:26 Men's Doubles Partnerships and Performances

20:44 The Depth of Men's Doubles Competition

22:56 Emerging Stars in Men's Doubles

25:52 The Importance of Team Branding in Doubles

29:04 Enhancing Audience Engagement in Doubles

33:49 Mixed Doubles Final issue at AO

38:41 Concluding Thoughts on the Future of Doubles

Relevant Links:

• Relief links for California Wildfires:
• Tennis Channel - https://www.tennis.com/californiawildfiresrelief
• Tennis Tribe Online - https://www.thetennistribe.com
• Doubles Only Tennis Podcast - https://podfollow.com/1540160436 
• Will Boucek Online - https://x.com/willboucek?s=21&t=34KFRaMxpc-93mq_1EOI7A

Visit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.com

Email us at - [email protected]

Follow us for daily updates on Social:

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_pass

Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.social

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_pass

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPass

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcast

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In this engaging conversation, Anastasia and Mitch Michals discuss the ongoing Australian Open, covering everything from the challenges of following matches across time zones to the evolution of American tennis. They preview the women's and men's semifinals, analyze key players like Aryna Sabalenka, Iga Swiatek, and Novak Djokovic, and delve into the dynamics of coaching in tennis. The discussion also highlights memorable moments from the tournament, showcasing the excitement and unpredictability of the sport.

Chapters

00:00 Coffee and Tennis: A Casual Introduction

02:57 Navigating Time Zones and Match Schedules

05:44 The Impact of Australian Open on American Tennis

08:41 Emerging Talents in American Tennis

11:24 Previewing the Women's Semifinals

14:23 Analyzing Sabalenka's Performance

17:27 Badosa's Surprising Journey to the Semifinals

20:15 Iga Swiatek's Dominance in the Tournament

20:38 The Role of Coaching in Tennis

21:51 The Team Behind Individual Athletes

24:01 Madison Keys: A Surprising Contender

25:56 Ega Swiatek vs. Madison Keys: A Potential Upset

27:55 Men's Semifinals: Djokovic and Zverev's Clash

29:32 Yannick Sinner vs. Ben Shelton: An Unexpected Matchup

36:23 Reflections on the Australian Open

Relevant Links:

• Relief links for California Wildfires:
• Tennis Channel - https://www.tennis.com/californiawildfiresrelief
• Mitch Michels Online - https://x.com/moneymitchm21?s=21&t=34KFRaMxpc-93mq_1EOI7A
• Inside In Podcast with Mitch - https://podfollow.com/1562215629

Visit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.com

Email us at - [email protected]

Follow us for daily updates on Social:

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_pass

Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.social

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_pass

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPass

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcast

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On this episode of *Ground Pass*, Anastasia Folorunso and Nick Carter dive into all the excitement of the Australian Open. They share their struggles of keeping up with the matches while battling those tricky time zone differences (relatable, right?). From the rise of young tennis stars to the matches that have left a lasting impression so far, they cover it all. Plus, they look ahead to what’s shaping up to be an unforgettable second week. Join the conversation as they celebrate the next generation of players and why their journeys are so inspiring to follow!

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

01:33 How we are keeping up wit the Australian Open

08:33 Emerging Talents at the Australian Open

19:04 Memorable Matches and Highlights

28:57 The Entertaining Matches: Monfils and Fritz

33:11 Ground Pass Experience: Watching Tennis Live

35:43 The Atmosphere of the Australian Open

38:42 Looking Ahead: Juniors and Wheelchair Tennis

41:30 Doubles Pairings to Watch

45:16 The Future of Junior Tennis

47:17 The GOAT of Wheelchair Tennis

47:35 Wrapping Up: What’s Next on Ground Pass

50:24 Outro

Visit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.com

Email us at - [email protected]

Follow us for daily updates on Social:

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_pass

Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.social

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_pass

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPass

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcast

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In this episode, Ian Mondul and Anastasia Folorunso discuss the latest trends in tennis fashion at the Australian Open. They explore the offerings from major brands like Nike, Wilson, Adidas, New Balance, and more, evaluating their designs, colors, and overall impact on the sport's fashion landscape. The conversation also highlights standout players like Coco Gauff and the significance of brand signings in shaping tennis fashion. In this conversation we delve into the world of tennis fashion, analyzing the apparel choices of various brands and players during the Australian Open. They discuss the trends, misses, and hits in tennis fashion, highlighting the importance of personal style and brand representation. The conversation also touches on emerging brands and the evolution of tennis attire, emphasizing how players express their individuality through their clothing choices. They conclude by looking ahead to upcoming matches and players to watch, showcasing the intersection of fashion and sport.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome Back Ian

02:43 California Fires and Community Support

05:34 Fashion Trends at the Australian Open

08:27 Nike's Fashion Choices: A Mixed Bag

11:48 Wilson's Cohesive and Bold Looks

15:19 Adidas: A Step Forward in Fashion

19:44 New Balance: Winning the Fashion Game

24:13 Issues with finding Tennis looks in stores

25:33 Oh On

26:42 Fila

28:04 Lululemon

29:17 Lululemon's Entry into Tennis Apparel

31:49 K-Swiss - Honorable mention

33:25 Lacoste

33:36 Lacoste's Consistency and Fashion Faux Pas

35:19 ASICS

38:23 Yonex

41:28 Others

56:44 Destanee Aiava: A Unique Fashion Statement

01:00:03 Fashion Wins and Losses at the Australian Open

Relevant Links:

• Relief links for California Wildfires:
• Tennis Channel - https://www.tennis.com/californiawildfiresrelief
• Brain Dead clothing brand - https://www.instagram.com/p/DEpvpNSvzLK/?igsh=MXRiOGZ5eGozZ3AxYw==
• Ian Mondul Online: https://www.instagram.com/fortylovetennis?igsh=ZG1na3d2ZjhvZm9k

Visit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.com

Email us at - [email protected]

Follow us for daily updates on Social:

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_pass

Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.social

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_pass

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPass

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcast

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In this engaging conversation, Anastasia and tennis insider Craig Shapiro delve into the highlights of day two at the Australian Open, discussing match performances, player insights, and the vibrant atmosphere of the tournament. They explore the challenges faced by players like Novak Djokovic and Naomi Osaka, while also touching on the significance of tennis fashion and sponsorships in the sport. The discussion provides a unique insider perspective on the tournament, making it a must-listen for tennis fans.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

10:23 Exploring the Australian Open Venue and Atmosphere

15:33 In-Depth Match Review: Novak vs. Basavareddy

20:59 Nick Kyrgios and Jacob Fernley Match Insights

25:17 The Journey of Tsitsipas

27:52 Naomi Osaka's Match Analysis

31:40 Tennis Fashion and Sponsorships

41:35 The Impact of Clothing Brands in Tennis

44:37 Looking forward to the days ahead at AO

Relevant Links:

• Relief links for California Wildfires:
• Tennis Channel - https://www.tennis.com/californiawildfiresrelief
• Brain Dead clothing brand - https://www.instagram.com/p/DEpvpNSvzLK/?igsh=MXRiOGZ5eGozZ3AxYw==
• Craig Shapiro Online: https://linktr.ee/cshaptennispod?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=8fbd40fb-df72-428d-ab02-d27c3cba946c

Visit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.com

Email us at - [email protected]

Follow us for daily updates on Social:

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_pass

Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.social

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_pass

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPass

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcast

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In this episode of Ground Pass, hosts Nick Carter and Anastasia Folorunso dive into the excitement of the Australian Open, discussing the first day's events, including rain delays, match highlights, and the historic win of Hady Habib. They explore the new on-court coaching innovations, reflect on veteran players like Kei Nishikori and Gael Monfils, and preview the packed schedule for Day Two. The hosts emphasize the importance of planning for Grand Slam matches and encourage listeners to engage with their social media for updates and insights throughout the tournament.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to the Happy Slam

02:53 Day One Highlights and Rain Delays

06:02 Match Insights and Watch Lists

08:50 Historic Wins and Feel-Good Stories

11:58 Coaching Innovations at the Australian Open

17:52 Day Two Preview and Scheduling Challenges

20:46 Grand Slam Leave and Social Media Engagement

Mentioned on the Podcast:

• Australian Open YouTube Channel [BlueZone] - https://www.youtube.com/live/Qsn35Pn3pPw?si=n2dfCPUz0ZjkRJx-

Visit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.com

Email us at - [email protected]

Follow us for daily updates on Social:

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_pass

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TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcast

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Anastasia is joined by Tony Wright, a coaching pro and podcaster from California, for an engaging conversation, discussing the intricacies of the Australian Open, including the draw process, seeding, and the impact of current events on the tournament. They share insights on key matches to watch, strategies for attending tournaments, and how to effectively follow the action from home. The episode emphasizes the importance of planning ahead for tournaments like this and fan engagement in the world of tennis.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background of Tony Wright

02:48 Current Events: California Fires and Their Impact

05:36 Understanding the Australian Open Draw

08:43 The Importance of Seeding and Qualifiers

11:23 How Draws Are Conducted in Tournaments

14:19 Fan Engagement and the Draw Experience

17:09 Analyzing the Australian Open Draw Matchups

19:01 First round matches we are looking forward to

23:30 American Players in the Draw

24:23 Player Dynamics and Rivalries

26:31 Qualifiers and Their Challenges

28:37 WTA Highlights and Key Matchups

30:30 Revisiting Familiar Faces

31:26 Emerging Talents and Gritty Competitors

33:05 Player Personalities and Off-Court Lives

34:49 Strategies for Tournament Viewing

37:53 Navigating the Tournament Schedule

39:31 Maximizing Your Grand Slam Experience

47:31 Strategizing Your Match Schedule

55:08 Essential Tips for Tournament Days

56:41 Upcoming Podcast Announcements

Relevant Links:

• Relief links for California Wildfires:
• Tennis Channel - https://www.tennis.com/californiawildfiresrelief
• Brain Dead clothing brand - https://www.instagram.com/p/DEpvpNSvzLK/?igsh=MXRiOGZ5eGozZ3AxYw==
• Balanced Tennis on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/balanced_tennis?igsh=MTI2b3Q5cDA0NmE5Zw==
• Tennis Today Podcast - https://podfollow.com/1725696267
• Tennis Today on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/tennistodaypodcast?igsh=NnFkZDlwZmtncGJz
• Australian Open Daily Schedule- https://ausopen.com/schedule#!41183

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In this episode, Anastasia and Nick celebrate the New Year and discuss the upcoming Australian Open, reflecting on the United Cup and its significance in the tennis calendar. 

We then jump into our Australian Open preview with the help of tennis content creator Jess Adjua. Just is a resident of Sydney, Australia and has been attending the Australian Open in Melbourne for years. She gives us her tips and tricks and what to look forward to at the tournament.

Chapters

00:00 New Year, New Tennis Season

01:56 Intro

03:45 United Cup Review

10:06 Australian Open Preview

14:40 The other tournaments that happened this week

31:37 Australian Open 2025 preview

34:00 Introduction of Jess Adjua and our "Okay Stop" segment

41:31 Best time to go to a Grand Slam

43:52 Ticket Options at the Australian Open

57:11 Planning Your Grand Slam Experience

01:11:36 Emerging Players to Watch

01:18:17 Players of the Fortnite

01:27:08 Outro

Mentioned on the Podcast:

• Kaylan Bigun is the Junior American Tennis Player whose twin is Meecah Bigun who also plays tennis. Kaylan is the current French Open Junior champion.
• Jess Adjua Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessadjua/profilecard/?igsh=dTV4Zmp5Mm1hdHhh
• ATP Challenger TV: https://www.atptour.com/en/atp-challenger-tour/challenger-tv

Visit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.com

Email us at - [email protected]

Follow us for daily updates on Social:

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_pass

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