In this episode, we’re joined by Atlanta Vibe setter and first-round draft pick Averi Carlson for a conversation that’s equal parts fun and insightful.

Averi takes us through her volleyball journey, from dominating high school and studying Lauren Carlini film like it was a masterclass, to navigating the uncertainty of the transfer portal, and ultimately finding her perfect fit at SMU. She opens up about taking risks, trusting her instincts, and how those decisions helped shape her into the player she is today. 

We also dive into her transition to the pros, what it’s really like being a rookie in a high-speed, high-pressure environment, and how she’s learning to lead as a setter while stepping outside her comfort zone.

And of course, we get into the important stuff: Diet Coke rankings, sushi reviews with teammates, bedazzling hobbies, and life in Atlanta.

Whether you’re a setter, a player navigating your own path, or just a fan of the game, this episode is all about trusting the journey and embracing every step along the way.

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This week, we’re catching up on a huge week in volleyball news — and filling Tiff in on everything she missed while at Disney.

We break down the LOVB Classic, what worked (and what didn’t), and which teams are starting to separate themselves halfway through the season. Then we dive into Major League Volleyball’s first-ever trade, what it means for both teams, and why roster moves like this could shape the league’s future. We also discuss new rule changes coming to the Volleyball Nations League and the potential impact they could have on the game.

Off the court, we talk about some of the biggest headlines around the sport, from legal developments in the pro ranks to the growing crossover between volleyball and pop culture. And to wrap things up, we share a surprising deep dive into why so many volleyball players end up becoming Olympic bobsledders — a connection we never expected but now can’t stop thinking about.

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What happens when you're ready to retire from the court, only to find out you've been drafted 14th overall while you weren't even watching? This week on the Side Out Society Podcast, we sit down with the Omaha Supernovas' "accidental pro," Reagan Cooper.

Reagan opens up about her unique transition to the pro level, the mental game of building confidence as a national standout, and why her journey from Washington State to Texas Tech to Kansas was just the beginning.

We also dive into her human side... from her "flight anxiety" to her secret life in The Sims 4. And stick around for our "Side Out Sprint" as Reagan reveals her favorite horror movies and what's in her must-have item in her bag that isn't volleyball related.

What does it feel like to be the first-ever number one pick for a brand new franchise? This week, we’re joined by the high-flying, heavy-hitting Mimi Colyer. Mimi takes us behind the scenes of her historic draft day at Wisconsin, recounting the surreal moment the confetti popped in the team room just hours before she had to lock back in for practice.

We dive into her transition from being a standout at Oregon to a legend at Wisconsin, winning the inaugural AVCA Outside Hitter of the Year award, and what it's like to now lead the charge for the Dallas Pulse in Major League Volleyball. Stick around for our "Side Out Sprint" rapid-fire round, where Mimi reveals her favorite emoji to use in a group chat and who is officially the funniest person in the Pulse locker room.

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Is having two pro leagues good for the sport, or is it just confusing? This week, we issue our official "State of the Pros" address for January. We compare the start of the 2026 season for both leagues, highlighting the breakout rookie performances from Rebekah Allick and Kiara Reinhardt, and the surprising roster moves like the sudden release of Maddie Waak.

We also debate the "Merger" timeline. Are we looking at an NFL/AFL situation, and what was up with that competing "NorCal" team announcement? From the "pink" broadcast lighting issues to the disparity in playing time for college faves, we cover the good, the bad, and the chaotic of pro volleyball’s growth.

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In this episode, we’re joined by Kimberly Drewniok, LOVB Nebraska's charismatic opposite, to talk about more than just volleyball.

Kimberly opens up about her mindset both on and off the court, like how she recharges, stays motivated, and continues learning through every phase of her career. From breathwork to trusting herself in high-pressure moments, she shares the habits and philosophies that keep her grounded and growing.

We also talk about the transition to LOVB, her love of the outdoors, animals and her family, and how she’s learned to redefine success, not just by wins, but by joy, growth, and connection.

Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or just someone working toward big goals, this episode is a reminder to slow down, check in, and fall in love with the process.

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In this episode, we sit down with Lauren Carlini, U.S. National Team setter, former All-American at Wisconsin, and one of the most passionate leaders in volleyball.

We dive into her journey from elite player to emerging coach, and how her experiences competing at the highest level have shaped the way she teaches, leads, and connects with the next generation. Lauren shares what makes a great setter, how her perspective has evolved over time, and what it means to truly lead, both on and off the court.

From her fire and work ethic to the way she reads the game and motivates others, this conversation is all about growth, mindset, and loving the grind.

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In our first episode of 2026, we sit down with volleyball legend Jordan Larson, Olympic gold medalist, founding athlete of League One Volleyball, and proud dog mom to a stubborn bulldog named Win.

We talk about everything from her mindset and physical longevity, to what she’s learned from playing at the highest level for decades. Jordan opens up about what’s next — both on the court and potentially off it — as she navigates her final season, ownership in LOVB Nebraska, and her evolving role in shaping the future of the sport.

We also get her thoughts on coaching, rec leagues, TikTok, and what she wishes more people asked her about. It’s the perfect way to start the new year.

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This episode originally aired back on November 19th, but we edited it to make the interview more evergreen.

She’s one of the best voices in volleyball, and she’s on the mic with us this week! Emily Ehman joins Side Out Society to talk about her rise as a broadcaster, the mentors who shaped her, and what’s next for the sport.

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In our final episode of 2025, we’re going all in on Texas A&M, your new NCAA Women’s Volleyball National Champions! After an unforgettable weekend in Kansas City, we reflect on the Aggies' dominant sweep over Kentucky in the title match and how Jamie Morrison’s team capped off their historic season.

We also share what it was like being on the ground for the semifinals — meeting players, coaches, fellow media members, and passionate fans — and how that experience has us even more excited for what’s coming in 2026. From Side Out Society’s growing brand to the podcast lineup we already have planned, the new year is going to be big!

To celebrate the season’s end, we hand out our inaugural superlatives, with categories like “Most Likely to Break the Radar Gun,” “Best Celebration,” and, of course, “The Great Wall of Cos-Okpalla.”

Finally, just because the college season is over doesn’t mean it’s time to stop watching! We highlight some of the top graduates who are heading to League One Volleyball and Major League Volleyball — and where you can catch your favorite stars next.

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