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In this Triple Block Heads volleyball podcast episode, Makani, Frank, and Marc begin a role-specific series focused on training middle blockers offensively and defensively from youth through elite levels. They identify four foundational motor skills for young middles—reaction, balance, timing/rhythm, and motor/work ethic—emphasizing early development for taller athletes and injury prevention. Offensively, they stress the mindset of “how do I get set,” training tempo clarity (zero, first tempo), variety of attacks (including one-foot options), audibles using natural gaps, efficient transition footwork, early communication, tracking the ball, and compact arm preparation. Defensively, they frame middle defense around blocking with four components: read, react, power movement, and punch/press-and-hold, plus hand-angle mastery and vision training. They close with desired middle traits: motor, selflessness, IQ, and swagger, and discuss recognizing middle impact and using role models to keep the position appealing.

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In this episode of the Triple Block Heads Podcast, hosts Makani, Frank, and Marc delve into the complexities of the NCAA transfer portal and its impact on collegiate volleyball. They discuss the portal's emergence and its role in empowering student-athletes to take control of their careers. Key points include the operational windows for entering the portal, the potential for institutions to cut financial support once an athlete enters, and the balance between institutional needs and athlete motivations. The hosts highlight the high number of transfers, noting a staggering 20% yearly turnover among Division I volleyball players. They discuss the trends causing these transfers, such as playing time and cultural fit issues, and the financial incentives driving some athletes to move to higher divisions. Additionally, they explore how the transfer portal has influenced club-level recruiting timelines and speculate on potential future impacts, including financial remuneration for club athletes. The discussion concludes with reflections on the transfer portal's permanence and possible improvements, such as instituting loyalty incentives and more structured transfer limits.

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This episode of the 'Block Triple Blockheads' podcast dives into preparing for National Qualifiers. The hosts, Makani, Frank, and Marc, discuss various aspects such as the definition of qualifiers, the challenges teams, players, and parents face, and how to set expectations and prepare effectively. Key points include understanding national qualifiers, dealing with the financial costs, setting the right mindset for young and regional teams, and balancing player development with competitive goals. The episode also offers practical advice for parents on managing the logistics of these events and emphasizes the importance of maintaining a team-first attitude and preparing rigorously for the challenges ahead.

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In this episode of the Triple Block Heads podcast, hosts Makani, Frank, and Marc delve into offensive strategies in volleyball, contrasting it with previously discussed defensive techniques. The discussion emphasizes the importance of creativity in offense, tailoring strategies to a team's specific strengths and weaknesses. Key topics include selecting appropriate offensive strategies based on team skills and structure, and maximizing various scenarios in both mid and out-of-system contexts. They explore approaches for leveraging different player roles and systems, including handling small pins, utilizing a dominant scorer, capitalizing on a strong middle attacker, and managing a lefty setter. The conversation highlights the critical relationship between setters and coaches and the need for teams to adjust strategies based on specific match situations while maintaining adaptability and creativity.

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In this New Year's episode, the hosts of the Triple Block Heads podcast reflect on their journey over the past year in producing content about volleyball. They discuss the challenges and successes they've experienced in starting and maintaining the podcast, particularly in improving their public speaking and engaging with the volleyball community. They share their personal and professional resolutions for 2026, which include enhancing work-life balance, improving productivity, and focusing on specific volleyball coaching techniques. The hosts delve into broader aspirations for the sport, including increasing TV coverage, improving production quality, and resolving issues with officiating. They emphasize the need for volleyball to gain more mainstream exposure to grow its fan base and inspire young athletes. With appreciation for their listeners' support, they vow to continue their podcasting journey into the new year.

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In this episode of the Triple Block Heads podcast, hosts Makani, Marc, and Frank discuss various aspects of changing positions in volleyball. They delve into the reasons and timing for position changes, exploring scenarios ranging from club team adjustments to collegiate level transitions. The hosts emphasize the importance of transparency, setting goals, and maintaining open communication between coaches, players, and parents. They share personal anecdotes and offer strategies for players to embrace new roles, highlight the significance of role acceptance, and underscore the value of continuous development. Throughout the episode, the discussion is guided by the overarching theme of fostering a positive mindset and strong team dynamics, crucial for navigating the complexities of position changes in volleyball.

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In this episode of the 'Triple Block Head' podcast, hosts Makani, Frank, and Marc discuss the upcoming collegiate volleyball convention at the end of the fall season. They cover the logistics of attending the event, including accommodation tips and session planning. Frank shares his excitement about presenting on small rosters and their positive impact on his club. Marc emphasizes the importance of attending conventions for open, low-stakes peer conversations. They also talk about the benefits of watching live matches and balancing the need for socializing, networking, and professional development. The episode ends with a plan to potentially produce a reality show tracking various presenters and attendees at next year's convention.

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In this episode of Triple Block Heads, Makani, Frank, and Marc discuss their excitement and challenges for the upcoming volleyball club season. Frank, a club director, shares his enthusiasm for creating opportunities for young players to engage in more games and practices, as well as his new experience coaching a 12s team. Mark, with a collegiate perspective, appreciates the development of young players and the joy of watching them grow. The conversation touches on the physical and emotional demands of managing a club, the different levels of engagement by age group, and the community and learning environment that tournaments offer. They also humorously recount the trials of navigating tournament logistics, varying officiating standards, and the social aspects of the volleyball community. Overall, the episode conveys a deep passion for mentoring young athletes and the excitement of the new club season.

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In this episode of the Triple Block Heads podcast, hosts Makani, Frank, and Marc discuss the nuances of timeout management in volleyball coaching. They emphasize the strategic use of timeouts to break the opponent's momentum, adjust strategies, and address team morale. Key points include the importance of recognizing the right moments to call a timeout, the differences between club and collegiate volleyball, and how to use timeouts to build team cohesion and improve play. The hosts also share personal anecdotes, tips on structuring huddles, and common mistakes to avoid, such as emotional timeouts and wasting timeouts on futile situations. The episode underscores the significance of being deliberate and planful in using timeouts as a tool to enhance team performance and development.

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In this episode of 'Triple Block Heads', hosts Makani, Marc, and Frank discuss their 'less is more' approach to volleyball skills training. They emphasize using concise, three-word cues that are easy for athletes, parents, and coaches to remember. The hosts cover key skills such as serving, setting, passing, blocking, and attacking, providing specific word cues and techniques for both beginners and advanced players. They focus on the importance of repetition, player empowerment, and concise communication in coaching. The discussion underscores how using brief, consistent cues can enhance athletes' performance and understanding of the game.

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