Welcome to Episode 39 of The Pickleball Connection podcast. In this episode, Barrett and Danea Bass recap the PPA Atlanta Pickleball Championships, including surprising wins (and losses). Federico Staksrud tweeted that singles pickleball has become mini-tennis, a comment that everyone seems to be talking about. Barrett and Danea discuss whether singles pickleball is more like doubles pickleball or tennis — and if former tennis players have an advantage in singles pickleball. They also talk about the evolution of pickleball, including the impact of paddle technology on gameplay and strategy, and the growing concern for eye protection as the game becomes faster and more powerful.

Welcome to Episode 40 of The Pickleball Connection podcast. In this episode, Barrett and Danea Bass discuss the significant fine imposed upon pro pickleball player Quang Duong by the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) for violating his contract by playing in a hometown pickleball tournament in Vietnam. They share their thoughts on the implications of fines in professional pickleball, the responsibility of pro players to communicate about other tournaments they are playing in, and why local tournaments are so important for the sport. They also discuss playing in tournaments, including the challenges faced during large tournaments and advice for players entering tournaments for the first time.

Welcome to Episode 39 of The Pickleball Connection podcast. In this episode, Barrett and Danea Bass recap the PPA Atlanta Pickleball Championships, including surprising wins (and losses). Federico Staksrud tweeted that singles pickleball has become mini-tennis, a comment that everyone seems to be talking about. Barrett and Danea discuss whether singles pickleball is more like doubles pickleball or tennis — and if former tennis players have an advantage in singles pickleball. They also talk about the evolution of pickleball, including the impact of paddle technology on gameplay and strategy, and the growing concern for eye protection as the game becomes faster and more powerful.

Welcome to Episode 38 of the Pickleball Connection podcast! In this episode, Barrett and Danea discuss pro pickleball, and especially the recent withdrawal of pro players Ben and Collin Johns from a Major League Pickleball (MLP) tournament due to safety concerns over lighting. What does this mean for their team, the fans, and professional pickleball as a whole? Barrett and Danea discuss reactions from other players, potential punishments, and the broader issues of player performance and health in pickleball.

Welcome to Episode 37 of The Pickleball Connection podcast! In this episode, Barrett and Danea Bass discuss navigating playing with an emotional and/or frustrated partner, and how to manage your own emotions on the pickleball court. High-pressure situations (like a pickleball game) can lead to performance anxiety — but what can you do to help your pickleball partner manage their emotions? They explain how being positive and showcasing your sportsmanship can help you have a good experience.

Welcome to Episode 36 of The Pickleball Connection podcast! In this episode, Barrett and Danea Bass discuss the impact of tariffs on the pickleball industry, especially for those pickleball paddle companies that rely on overseas manufacturing. Barrett and Danea explore the potential inflationary effects on paddle prices and the uncertainty surrounding supply chains. They also discuss the recent breakup of the pickleball women's doubles team of Anna Leigh Waters and Catherine Parenteau, what it means for both players, and how the competitive landscape in women's pickleball is evolving with new talent emerging.

Top pickleball coaches Barrett and Danea talk about the crazy WINDS at the PPA Texas Open and how that affected gameplay, including what YOU could do about playing in the wind. They also reveal the evolution of pickleball from its classic roots to the MODERN game, highlighting changes in strategies, paddle technology, and gameplay dynamics. The conversation wraps up with reflections on the future of pickleball, how the game may continue to evolve, and how you should be changing YOUR game.

Welcome to Episode 33 of The Pickleball Connection podcast! In this episode, Barrett and Danea Bass welcome Mike and Rob Barnes, co-founders of Selkirk Sport. They talk about starting the pickleball company in their dad's basement, how they bootstrapped the business without any external investors, and building the company on controlled risk-taking. The COVID-19 pandemic led to a 70% drop in pickleball sales overnight, but their business structure allowed them to survive and eventually pull ahead of competitors. The Barnes also discuss the evolution of pickleball demographics and Selkirk's goal of maintaining manufacturing capabilities in the USA, which helps Selkirk to maintain quality customer service, oversee quality control, and navigate regulatory challenges.

Welcome to Episode 32 of The Pickleball Connection podcast! In this episode, Barrett and Danea Bass talk all things recreational pickleball: including rec leagues and tournament dynamics. Learn about partner compatibility, deal breakers in pickleball tournaments, and the significance of maintaining a positive atmosphere on the pickleball court. Barrett and Danea also talk about pickleball etiquette in rec play, especially when it comes to line calls and how the right partner can make or break your pickleball game.

Welcome to The Pickleball Connection podcast! In this episode, Barrett and Danea Bass discuss pickleball in 2025, especially what they hope will change this year. Pickleball tournament costs have been rising and pickleball paddle regulations have become really confusing. Although there needs to be better standards and accessibility in the sport, the different regulating bodies are making it hard for players to keep up. Barrett and Danea also talk about Mark Renneson of Pickleball Coaching International (PCI) and how pickleball coaches are pivotal to growing the sport of pickleball.