In Episode 113 of The James Ignatowich Show, James breaks down one of the most misunderstood aspects of pickleball: how to be aggressive in the transition zone 📝 Learn:

• When to swing and when to reset
• Why attacking cross-court can be the smarter play
• The biggest body language cue for dodging out balls
• Why most people defend the wrong side
• And how throwing a frisbee can improve your backhand flick

In Episode 112 of The James Ignatowich Show, James breaks down the most overlooked—but absolutely critical—part of your pickleball game: the return of serve. Whether you’re a beginner or advanced player, this episode dives into:

✅ Why deep and consistent returns matter more than ever

🔁 How to mix in short slice and high cross-court returns to gain time and disrupt rhythm

🧠 When a lob return actually makes sense (yes, really)

🎯 How to target the middle to create confusion—especially against righty-lefty teams

💥 The myths of cross-court attacks—and how pros really use them

🧍‍♂️ Why you keep getting hit... and how to stop getting bagged

James also shares a few entertaining anecdotes—from attacking his own student Max Freeman, to giving props to the ducking master himself, Quang Duong.

Welcome to Episode 111 of the James Ignatowich Show! In this episode, James discusses the idea of "dwell time" in pickleball, explaining its significance in paddle control and shot execution. He explains how dwell time affects the pickleball player's ability to generate spin and control the ball, emphasizing the importance of paddle thickness and core material. He also shares his strategies for executing offensive and defensive lobs, including the differences in technique and approach for each type of lob, and the importance of using topspin and height effectively.

Welcome to Episode 110 of the James Ignatowich show. In this episode, James discusses the evolution of pickleball, both on the rec level and professional pickleball, and how to stay present and focused while maintaining your composure during competitive pickleball games. He also discusses the technical aspects of serving and how you can improve your serve by learning the science behind pickleball paddle technology. James also highlights the significance of arm relaxation and leg positioning in achieving a powerful and consistent serve.

Welcome to Episode 109 of the James Ignatowich Show! In this episode, James shares his thoughts on tungsten tape vs. lead tape on pickleball paddles. He explains how the weight distribution of the tape affects paddle performance, including power, swing weight, and twist weight. James also shares his thoughts on customizing paddle weight for different playing styles and compares elongated and wide body paddles. Understanding paddle dynamics is an important (and underrated) part of becoming a better pickleball player.

Welcome to Episode 108 of the James Ignatowich Show. In this episode, James shares his recent experiences at pickleball tournaments, including detailed information on his strategies for playing against powerful and talented professional players (like Collin Johns), why pickleball paddle power is so important in competitive games, and the importance of sticking to your pickleball fundamentals. He also shares his thoughts on pickleball coaching and how pickleball equipment has been evolving over the years.

Welcome to Episode 106 of the James Ignatowich Show! In this episode, James discusses the importance of pickleball paddle grip pressure, including his personal preferences for grip levels for different shots. He also talks about the recent controversy surrounding tournament conditions at Major League Pickleball (MLP), especially the lighting issues that led to pickleball pros Ben and Collin Johns to pull out of MLP Columbus. Plus, his thoughts on the current state of pro pickleball, how to increase viewer engagement, and make the sport more enjoyable to watch.

Welcome to Episode 105 of the James Ignatowich Show! In this episode, James talks about how to play pickleball when it's windy out, including the importance of adjusting techniques such as the lob, drive, and footwork. Playing in the wind requires very specific strategies, but there are ways to make it work in your favor. He also shares his thoughts on the recent withdrawal of professional players from Major League Pickleball (MLP) Columbus due to concerns over court conditions and safety.

Welcome to Episode 104 of the James Ignatowich Show! In this episode, James discusses wrist motion for the different pickleball shots, including dinks, drops, drives, attacks, and even your serve. Plus, how to achieve topspin without excessive wrist motion. James will also teach you the importance of pickleball body positioning during volleys and counters, especially a lower stance so you can improve your shot advocacy.

Welcome to Episode 103 of the James Ignatowich Show. In this episode, James shares his expertise on partner movement in pickleball, including the seesaw concept in paddle height, how to move with your partner at the kitchen line, dynamics in the transition zone, and the importance of an ATP defense. He also explores the differences between elongated and wide-body pickleball paddles and the advantages and disadvantages for players at various skill levels.