PicklePod

PicklePod 2.0 is presented by Marek Health. Use our code THEDINK for 10% off your $299 Intake Assessment at Table tennis superstar and viral content creator Adam Bobrow joins the PicklePod to talk about his surprising dive into pickleball—and what the sport can learn from the global growth of ping pong. Bobrow, one of the most recognizable personalities in table tennis, shares how he built an audience of millions, why he initially resisted pickleball, and what finally changed his mind once he stepped on the court. But first… the guys recap one of the most chaotic tournament weekends in recent memory. From Nico’s first PPA tournament in two years, to a match-ending Nasty Nelson attempt, to accusations of “no honor” on court 19, the Newport Beach event delivered peak unhinged pickleball. Meanwhile, pro drama was brewing with timeout tactics, loud grunting, and mental warfare between top singles stars like Hunter Johnson and Federico Staksrud. Plus: - The Mount Rushmore of unhinged pickleball players - The psychology behind gamesmanship in pickleball - Why millions of people play but don’t watch the pro game -What pickleball can learn from the growth of table tennis - Bobrow’s first experiences playing against pros like Anna Bright, Christian Alshon, and Ben Johns If you love pickleball stories, inside pro tour drama, and the future of the sport—this episode is a must-watch. Subscribe for weekly pickleball stories, interviews, and debates from the PicklePod. Be the first to try Zane's new course here: #Pickleball #PPATour #PickleballPodcast Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: -For everything else we do, visit -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball #pickleball #pickleballcourts ------------------ 0:00 Intro 2:06 Story time with Nico in Newport 10:15 The correct way to throw a paddle 12:58 Nico learns the Rob Cassidy timeout 18:05 Mt Rushmore of unhinged players 22:02 Headlines from the Newport Beach Open Adam Bobrow 30:01 Adam Bobrow joins the pod 30:34 Paddle vs Bat | Ping Pong vs Table Tennis 35:51 Bridging the gap between rec players and the pro game 41:32 There are levels to this game 43:44 Adding personality into sports viewing experience 49:21 How has your audience responded to the pickleball content? 52:16 Adam is invited to girls' night with Mari Humberg 55:45 Who is still on the dream guest list? 58:33 Zane saw vs snake shot 1:06:03 Guess my DUPR - Double Tweener 1:10:55 Zane tests his table tennis broadcast abilities Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Emergency pod activated. 🚨 We just got off the phone with Duc — father, manager, and mastermind behind Quang Duong (QD) — to break down the shocking APP announcement and what it really means. Is this another tour war? Did QD actually “sign” with the Association of Pickleball Players (APP)? Is the door closed with the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA)? And what actually happened behind the scenes at the Masters? Duc didn’t hold back. He explains: - Why QD’s APP deal is non-exclusive - What really broke negotiations with the PPA - Why Asia is the future of pickleball (and why tours are scrambling) - The “disrespect” that changed everything - Whether QD could still play PPA events this year There’s talk of sponsors pulling out, Asia-based investors stepping in, government pressure, and a candid breakdown of how tours operate differently in the U.S. vs. Asia. If you’ve been confused by the graphics, the “signed” language, and the sudden wave of APP announcements — this episode clears it all up. Strap in. This one got real. Be the first to try Zane's new course here: #Pickleball #PPATour #PickleballPodcast Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: -For everything else we do, visit -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball #pickleball #pickleballcourts ------------------ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

PicklePod 2.0 is presented by Marek Health. Use our code THEDINK for 10% off your $299 Intake Assessment at The MLP draft just BROKE the internet… and we’re unpacking all of it. From Anna Bright going for over $1 million to the Dallas Flash meltdown, this Major League Pickleball offseason might be more entertaining than the actual matches. We break down the bidding wars, the strategy behind youth vs. win-now rosters, whether Jack Sock is still a “fool me three times” situation, and why MLP might desperately need a salary cap (and floor). Then things get unhinged. James Ignatowich returns to the pod to talk about: - His UPA contract termination - Building RPM from scratch - Selling 10,000 paddles in a month - Why he’s moving to China - Getting blocked by the PPA - Whether he’s ever playing pro again - And yes… the Johnson siblings rumors We also dive into: - The new post-match cheating fines system - Why more transparency could grow the game - Whether one superstar pro is worth the ROI for a paddle brand - And the wild reality of manufacturing in China - This one is chaotic, honest, and surprisingly insightful. Be the first to try Zane's new course here: #Pickleball #PPATour #PickleballPodcast Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: -For everything else we do, visit -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball #pickleball #pickleballcourts ------------------ 0:00 Intro 2:36 Anna Bright draws $1.23 million bid 6:24 The Flash miss out on Jorja Johnson and new salary cap ideas 11:40 More surprises from the MLP Draft 16:49 Trade targets and sharing auction prices 20:21 Zane optimistic on cheating penalties James Ignatowich 25:55 James Ignatowich joins the show 27:43 RPM spawned out of dopamine detox 34:24 Building a cult following 38:39 Banned on social media 42:36 Why James was terminated 45:01 James sells Zane on moving to China 47:00 Questions from the audience 56:35 The “Jade” paddle story 58:53 John Kew’s decision to donate 3:04 Drafting paddles that impacted pickleball history Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nico the Lefty reacts to the massive moves in the 2026 Major League Pickleball Draft. Anna Bright goes for $1.23 Million, Jorja Johnson says bye-bye to big bro and joins Gary Vee and Anna Leigh Waters in Clown Town. Plus the MLP youth movement is in full effect. More Teams are taking chances on teenage players both international and domestic. There’s a completely new way to optimize your health. Give Blue Cannatine a try at or enter BETTER at checkout for 10% off your first order. Be the first to try Zane's new course here: #PPATour #PickleballPodcast Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' free e-newsletter at / thedinkpickleball -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: / thedi. . -For everything else we do, visit -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball #pickleball #pickleballcourts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

PicklePod 2.0 is presented by Marek Health. Use our code THEDINK for 10% off your $299 Intake Assessment at The funniest guy in pickleball has a story you probably didn’t see coming. This week on the PicklePod, we sit down with Evan Slaughter (@fit2serve1) — creator, comedian, CrossFit athlete, and Purple Heart recipient — to unpack the journey behind the viral videos. Before the stinky dinky… before the shirtless skits… before the millions of views… there was Afghanistan. Evan opens up about: - Serving as an infantryman in Afghanistan - Surviving an IED explosion and receiving a Purple Heart - Struggling with opioid addiction after returning home - Learning pickleball in rehab - How humor helped him heal - Turning TikTok videos into a full-time career - Creator vs pro influence in the paddle world - The business side of brands like Volair Pickleball - The future of pickleball in pop culture (including Apple TV+’s upcoming pickleball movie) This episode goes way deeper than social media clips. It’s about resilience, recovery, and how pickleball can literally change a life. If you’ve ever laughed at a Fit2Serve video, this is the story behind it. There’s a completely new way to optimize your health. Give Blue Cannatine a try at or enter BETTER at checkout for 10% off your first order. Follow Evan at Be the first to try Zane's new course here: #Pickleball #PPATour #PickleballPodcast Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: -For everything else we do, visit -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball #pickleball #pickleballcourts ------------------ 0:00 The only 8.0 player in the world 3:33 When will Anna Leigh steal Big H? 5:59 The greatest motivator in pro pickleball 10:23 Women’s doubles matchup we’ve been waiting for 15:10 Is Anna Leigh bad for the game? 19:36 Evan Slaughter joins the podcast 22:04 Purple Heart heroics 32:32 He discovered pickleball in rehab 38:37 Who moves more paddles, pros or creators? 46:10 Evan should be the lead in The Dink movie 56:17 Pickleball marathon and the 11 beer challenge 1:03:37 Evan’s new signature shot 1:09:03 Is celebrating after the dome shot bad etiquette? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

PicklePod 2.0 is presented by Marek Health. Use our code THEDINK for 10% off your $299 Intake Assessment at The PicklePod is back on The Dink Pickleball YouTube channel with one of our most wide-ranging episodes yet. This week we cover: MLP Trade Deadline Fallout Ana Bright. Georgia Johnson. Jack Sock. Major names dropped ahead of the deadline. We break down which teams won, which teams fumbled the bag, and whether Major League Pickleball just reshaped the power structure for 2026. Pickleball and the Olympics Are we overhyping the Olympic dream? Would 2032 in Australia change everything for the sport — or is the pro tour already the real prize? We debate what Olympic inclusion would actually mean for player development and global growth. Does Pickleball Need an All-Star Weekend? If the NBA can reinvent its format, why can’t we? From Ernie contests to reset challenges and paddle toss competitions, we design what a true pickleball skills showcase could look like. Grayson Goldin Update We react to the news of Grayson’s stroke, discuss player health coverage in pro pickleball, and send our support as he works toward a full recovery. The Dink Awards Finale We wrap up the 2025 Dink Awards with: - Best Facilities across the country - Best International Tournament - Paddle Reviewer of the Year - Paddle of the Year And yes, things get a little spicy during the paddle reviewer segment. We also sit down with APP Chief Marketing Officer Tom Webb for a direct conversation about the future of the APP, the evolving pro landscape, and where the sport is headed long term. Drop your thoughts in the comments: What would you include in a pickleball All-Star competition? Subscribe, leave a review, and share this with the doubles partner who still doesn’t understand pro pickleball. 120/Life is a once-a-day functional drink made with ingredients that help support healthy blood pressure. Listeners get 20% off their entire order with code DINK at Be the first to try Zane's new course here: #Pickleball #PPATour #PickleballPodcast Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: -For everything else we do, visit -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball #pickleball #pickleballcourts ------------------ 0:00 Intro 3:12 The Palm Beach Royals won the trade deadline 5:18 Anna Bright and Jorja Johnson dropped from MLP team 14:59 Do the Olympics matter? 19:41 Pickleball is like curling for the summer games 22:52 All-Star Game and skills competition for pickleball 29:03 Thoughts and prayers to Grayson Goldin 32:44 The 120Life Dink Awards conclusion 41:24 Paddle Reviewer and Paddle of the Year 48:59 Tom Webb joins the PicklePod 50:15 Sofia Sewing under the Will Howells contract 56:42 Do you need a big name to attract the audience? 1:00:44 What will the APP look like in 2030? 1:04:10 Who will be the winner in 10 years? 1:11:00 Rapid-fire questions from the listeners Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

PicklePod 2.0 is presented by Marek Health. Use our code THEDINK for 10% off your $299 Intake Assessment at In this episode of the Picklepod, we’re joined by Tanner Tomasi, calling in from India at 4:30 PM while Zane grinds at 6 a.m. and Nico barely keeps his eyes open at 3 a.m. 🌍☕ Tanner breaks down his experience competing in the World Pickleball League, including the unique format, 18 straight days of matches, and what it was like playing against elite international talent — plus Eric Lang’s final pro tournament ever. From there, the conversation takes a sharp turn into one of our hottest debates yet: Is doubles pickleball closer to professional gaming than tennis? We dive into reaction time, pattern recognition, neuroplasticity, and why former gamers may actually have an edge at the highest level of the sport. Tanner also opens up about his journey from full-time Fortnite streamer to pro pickleball player and content creator, sharing hard-earned lessons on social media growth, consistency, YouTube strategy, and why the packaging of content matters more than most people realize. Finally, we roll into the Dink Awards, spotlighting the most influential voices, best on-air personalities, and top pickleball podcasts — with plenty of opinions, debates, and classic Picklepod chaos along the way. This one hits pro pickleball, content creation, gaming crossover, and the future of the sport — don’t miss it. Maui Nui Venison has more protein per calorie than just about anything else out there, and it tastes unreal. Order your Ohana Reserve Box today and receive a free 12-pack of jerky sticks Follow Tanner Be the first to try Zane's new course here: #Pickleball #PPATour #PickleballPodcast Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: -For everything else we do, visit -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball #pickleball #pickleballcourts ------------------ 0:00 Tanner Calls In From India: World Pickleball League Explained 3:04 Does Pickleball Need a Mercy Rule? (7–0 Skunk Debate) 8:00 Tanner’s Background: From Fortnite Streaming to Pickleball 17:27 Discovering a niche in pickleball content 23:30 Who will be the Mr. Beast of pickleball? 27:01 The 120Life Dink Awards Most Influential Voice 34:53 Best On-air Personality and who you want to see in the booth 41:55 Podcast of the Year and the co-host tournament challenge 49:59 Pickleball YouTuber of the Year Award and Best Instructor 53:27 Content Creator of the Year completes the triple crown 58:39 The Viral Moment of the Year Award 1:05:31 Pickleball Journalist of the Year Award 1:07:02 Does pickleball have its Super Bowl event? 1:14:38 Start every match with a Nasty Nelson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

PicklePod 2.0 is presented by Marek Health. Use our code THEDINK for 10% off your $299 Intake Assessment at On this episode of the PicklePod, Nico and Zane are joined by Anna Bright for a wide-ranging (and slightly chaotic) conversation that dives into hot takes, hot debates, and the latest from the pro pickleball world. Anna explains why she believes there’s a legitimate argument that Gabe Tardio might be the best men’s doubles player right now, even in a world where Ben Johns still reigns supreme. The crew debates whether the right-side player is becoming more important than the left, breaks down ideal pairings to challenge Ben & Gabe, and power-ranks potential teams heading into the season. They also recap the first wave of the Dink Awards, including Player of the Year, Breakout Player, Fan Favorite, and more — plus Anna reacts to being nominated in seven categories and winning Fan Favorite Player. On the content side, Anna opens up about the growth of her newsletter and social presence, what motivated her to start creating more off-court content, and how she balances being a pro athlete with being a content creator. Naturally, things spiral into typing-speed competitions, Reddit beef, and questionable hypotheticals. Topics include: • Is Gabe Tardio the best men’s doubles player in the world? • Right-side vs left-side importance in modern pickleball • Best teams to challenge Ben Johns & Gabe Tardio • Dink Awards winners and surprises • Anna Bright’s rise as a content creator • Fan favorite debates, viral moments, and more Like, subscribe, and drop your hottest takes in the comments — especially if you disagree with Anna. 😅 Maui Nui Venison has more protein per calorie than just about anything else out there, and it tastes unreal. Order your Ohana Reserve Box today and receive a free 12-pack of jerky sticks Blue Cannatine from Troscriptions is designed to support the mental and physical flow state that pickleball players chase: focused, responsive, smooth, and adaptable — without jitters, crashes, or chaos. Try it today at Be the first to try Zane's new course here: #Pickleball #PPATour #PickleballPodcast Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: -For everything else we do, visit -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball #pickleball #pickleballcourts ------------------ 0:00 Intro 2:11 Gabe Tardio GOAT debate 5:37 A diabolical typo 8:18 The right side player defines a partnership 13:56 Hypothetical team to beat the best 18:47 120Life Dink Awards winners 25:32 Anna is leaning into the content game 36:18 Men's and Women's Player of the Year 38:11 The gap between #2 and the rest of the field 42:55 Men's and Women's Breakout Player of the Year 47:16 Upset of the Year - Anti-ball knower allegations 49:57 Fan favorite and Best On-court Personality 56:56 Zane snubbed on Best Dressed Player of the Year 1:00:30 MLP Preseason is underway 1:04:40 Zane traded and will Anna get dropped? 1:11:03 Mean tweets from AB 1:17:16 Pickleball Court - No games after clinics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

PicklePod 2.0 is presented by Marek Health. Use our code THEDINK for 10% off your $299 Intake Assessment at Chaos in Minnesota, a brand-new singles court experiment, a potential “pickleball competitor” sport, and one of the wildest medical timeout moments we’ve seen on tour… this episode has it all. Zane and Nico break down everything that went down at the PPA Minnesota Challenger, including huge upsets, the rise of 14-year-old phenom Cam Chaffin, and why the new narrowed singles court could fundamentally change the way singles pickleball is played. They also debate whether shrinking the court is the right solution, what the PPA is really trying to accomplish with singles, and if we’re headed toward a future with fewer (or no) triple crowns. Plus, the guys react to the viral medical timeout involving Andre and Gabe, discuss the unwritten rules of being a good pickleball partner, unpack the buzz around the new sport “Tipti,” and hit Guess My Duper, Pickleball Court, and more. If you like hot takes, rule debates, and behind-the-scenes pro tour stories, you’re in the right place. 👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your thoughts in the comments — should pickleball shrink the singles court? Maui Nui Venison has more protein per calorie than just about anything else out there, and it tastes unreal. Order your Ohana Reserve Box today and receive a free 12-pack of jerky sticks Blue Cannatine from Troscriptions is designed to support the mental and physical flow state that pickleball players chase: focused, responsive, smooth, and adaptable — without jitters, crashes, or chaos. Try it today at Be the first to try Zane's new course here: #Pickleball #PPATour #PickleballPodcast Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: -For everything else we do, visit -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball #pickleball #pickleballcourts ------------------ 0:00 Intro 4:02 The next ‘chubby’ singles court 10:35 A different ball for singles 16:10 Typti is gaining momentum 21:15 Everybody was sick in Minnesota 23:47 Pickleball Court - Abusing the medical timeout 28:04 Unwritten rules for good partners 33:19 Using Pickleball Survivor theory to weed out the cheaters 40:22 14yo Camden Chaffin’s breakout weekend 46:06 Alshon & Black win and break up 57:04 Arnold’s paddle throw lands in the crowd 1:05:54 Blind ranking iconic crashouts 1:09:30 Mean comments and Guess My DUPR Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

PicklePod 2.0 is presented by Marek Health. Use our code THEDINK for 10% off your $299 Intake Assessment at This week on The PicklePod, we’re joined by pro pickleball player Blaine Hovenier for a wide-ranging episode packed with tour stories, hot takes, and behind-the-scenes chaos from the Masters. Zane and Nico break down everything that went down at the Masters—from heated on-court moments and crowd chirping, to new paddle deals shaking up the pro scene. Blaine shares stories from competing at the highest level, what it’s like adjusting to new partnerships, and why high-variance pickleball might be the only way to challenge the top teams. The crew also dives deep into Major League Pickleball’s new format, including substitutions, expanded playoffs, and whether singles specialists are about to change the Dreambreaker forever. Plus, Nico relives the painful moment he realized he missed an email that could’ve made him an MLP GM. Other topics include: - New paddle deals and which switches actually mattered - Whether Ben Johns wins another singles gold - Jack Sock’s ceiling in pro pickleball - Anna Leigh Waters’ dominance (and who could possibly stop her) - The lob serve debate 🔥 - Minnesota weather, rental car danger, and elite sideline vibes It’s part pickleball analysis, part story time, and fully unfiltered. Like, subscribe, and welcome to PicklePod 2.0. Maui Nui Venison has more protein per calorie than just about anything else out there, and it tastes unreal. Order your Ohana Reserve Box today and receive a free 12-pack of jerky sticks Be the first to try Zane's new course here: #Pickleball #PPATour #PickleballPodcast Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: -For everything else we do, visit -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball #pickleball #pickleballcourts ------------------ 0:00 Nico’s weather report 5:13 MLP’s new rule rollout 10:59 Tournaments are back in MLP 17:23 Blaine inks deal with Six Zero 19:35 New paddles debuted at Masters 21:41 Early round action for team Blaine/Zane 26:46 The high percentage strategy against Ben 33:24 Jack Sock almost broke Nico 38:18 ALW’s 40 triple crown 42:55 Is the lob serve here to stay? 46:10 Pros vs the weather in Minnesota 58:38 Pickleball court bodybag edition 1:08:29 The comments section is lit Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

PicklePod 2.0 is presented by Marek Health. Use our code THEDINK for 10% off your $299 Intake Assessment at On this episode of The PicklePod, we break down the biggest story in the sport right now: Anna Leigh Waters signing with Nike—why it’s bigger than any paddle deal, what it means for the PPA, and how it could completely reshape pickleball’s place in pop culture. Is she officially the face of the sport? And who’s actually happier about the deal than Anna Leigh herself? Plus, Nico returns for episode two and wastes zero time making enemies. We dive into bold 2026 over/under predictions, including: - Will Ben Johns ever win another singles gold? - How many matches will Anna Leigh actually lose this year? - Are contract terminations finally slowing down? - Can Jack Sock (or any former tennis star) win a PPA title? We also react to YouTube and Twitter comments roasting the show, debate pickleball media beefs, preview the Masters, blind-rank the best tournaments in the world, and somehow end up talking about fist fights, venison sticks, and why pickleball Twitter might be the worst place on the internet. As always, it’s pickleball analysis you won’t hear anywhere else—equal parts hot takes, insider perspective, and chaos. 👇 Drop your takes in the comments 👍 Like & subscribe for weekly pickleball chaos Like, subscribe, and welcome to PicklePod 2.0. Maui Nui Venison has more protein per calorie than just about anything else out there, and it tastes unreal. Order your Ohana Reserve Box today and receive a free 12-pack of jerky sticks Be the first to try Zane's new course here: #Pickleball #PPATour #PickleballPodcast Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: -For everything else we do, visit -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball #pickleball #pickleballcourts ------------------ 0:00 Intro 3:12 Vote for Viral Moment of the Year 6:27 Anna Leigh Waters signs with Franklin/Nike 9:29 Nico faces his critics 16:43 Anna Bright mixed doubles partner count 21:14 Ben Johns' last singles gold 23:31 Termination count in 2026 29:11 Tennis players can’t close the gap 32:50 Will ALW lose at all this year 41:50 Gino the Righty claps back 44:35 Blind ranking battle 53:51 Rumors surrounding APP 1:00:29 Pickleball court case #2 1:09:44 Zane digs for kind comments Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to the first PicklePod episode of 2026 — and we’re kicking off the new year with a full reboot presented by Marek Health. Use our code THEDINK for 10% off your $299 Intake Assessment at This episode marks the debut of PicklePod 2.0, featuring a refreshed format, new segments, and a new voice behind the mic as Nico the Lefty officially joins the show. Thomas Shields is back, Zane Navratil is firing off takes, and things get unhinged fast. 🔥 What’s in this episode: - Guess My DUPR returns as we break down Nico the Lefty’s game (lazy footwork, elite hands, and all) - The entire pickleball world reacts to Anna Leigh Waters’ paddle situation — Franklin, JOOLA, PaddleTek, or something bigger? - Is this pickleball’s first-ever eight-figure paddle deal? - Who actually moves paddles in 2026: pros, reviewers, or creators? - Major paddle movement news: Dekel Barr, Gabe Tardio, international brands entering the space, and what it means for pros - Why some paddle companies fear reviewers more than losing top players - A full 2025 Pickleball Year in Review — who really won the year? - Has pro pickleball officially matured, or are breakout stars still coming? Plus: new segments, new beef, sponsor reads that somehow turn into hot takes, and plenty of PicklePod nonsense you’ve come to expect. 👇 Drop a comment and tell us: - Who actually moves paddles in pickleball? - Did MLP or UPA win 2025? - Is Nico really a 5.0… or nah? Like, subscribe, and welcome to PicklePod 2.0. Maui Nui Venison has more protein per calorie than just about anything else out there, and it tastes unreal. Order your Ohana Reserve Box today and receive a free 12-pack of jerky sticks Be the first to try Zane's new course here: #Pickleball #PPATour #PickleballPodcast Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: -For everything else we do, visit -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball #pickleball #pickleballcourts ------------------ 0:00 Introducing Nico the Lefty 4:05 Guess my DUPR returns 11:06 Nico's origin story 16:15 The Anna Leigh Waters paddle sweepstakes 29:38 More paddle signings to start the year 42:39 Who won 2025? 50:36 Pickleball reaching maturity in pro competition 58:44 Pickleball Court - Request Denied 1:07:16 What are you looking forward to in 2026? 1:13:13 Go vote in the Dink Awards Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The PicklePod closes out the year with a wide-ranging look at the stories that will shape pro pickleball in 2026. This episode breaks down what actually mattered at PPA Daytona, why the Jorja Johnson–Anna Lee Waters discourse has gone off the rails, and how recency bias continues to distort conversations around Anna Bright. We also look at emerging singles talent, including former tennis players making legitimate career moves into pickleball—and what that means for the competitive landscape next season. - On the business and governance side, we unpack: - The latest UPA contract fallout involving Ignatovich, Fu, and Glozman - Why an appeal likely isn’t the real endgame - The motivations behind the “You Can’t Trust a Fake” counterfeit paddle campaign - The official ProXR–PaddleTek merger and what it signals for paddle innovation and pricing You’ll also hear updates on: - DUPR’s new expected score system - The full 2025 Major League Pickleball schedule, including Junior MLP and Disney World - Thomas recovering his infamous Tesla-Selkirk paddle - Early thoughts on nominations for the 2025 Dink Awards There’s a completely new way to optimize your health. Give Blue Cannatine a try at or enter BETTER at checkout for 10% off your first order. Maui Nui Venison has more protein per calorie than just about anything else out there, and it tastes unreal. Order your Ohana Reserve Box today and receive a free 12-pack of jerky sticks Be the first to try Zane's new course here: #Pickleball #PPATour #PickleballPodcast Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: -For everything else we do, visit -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball #pickleball #pickleballcourts ------------------ 0:00 Intro 2:23 PPA Daytona Recap 7:09 New beef between Jorja and Jessie? 9:36 Who is the better fit to partner with ALW? 15:53 The Anna Bright vs Thomas match 18:05 DUPR now shows predicted match score 19:49 Can’t trust a fake campaign 23:24 ProXR and PaddleTek merger 25:06 MLP is headed to Disney World 28:12 Ignatowich & Co appeal termination 31:11 Zane makes his Dink Awards nominations Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of the Picklepod is absolute chaos—in the best way possible. We break down the UPA contract terminations involving James Ignatowich, Vivian Glozman, Ryan Fu, and Paris Todd, and debate whether the league is enforcing rules fairly or simply protecting exclusivity at all costs. Is this about contracts… or relationships? From there, we hit a packed slate of pickleball news: The Tesla pickleball paddle that sold out instantly and is already reselling for up to $1,000 (and may or may not be lost at a restaurant 🤯) MLP & OWL AI partnering to solve line calls—will AI actually work in pickleball? Nick Kyrgios joining Stack Athletics and what that means for pickleball’s mainstream future DUPR & USA Pickleball officially joining forces and what it means for ratings Inside stories from MiLP Nationals, including wild team promos, kid ATPs, and content gold Results and storylines from the APP Championships and PPA Challenger Raleigh A preview of the Daytona Beach Open, including new partnerships and why it’s must-watch We also dive into the Dink Awards, why fan voting matters more than ever, and who might be the most influential voice in pickleball right now. And yes… the episode ends with a frantic real-time hunt for a missing Tesla paddle. This one has everything. 👇 Drop a comment with your take on the UPA situation and whether you’d actually play with the Tesla paddle or keep it in the box. There’s a completely new way to optimize your health. Give Blue Cannatine a try at or enter BETTER at checkout for 10% off your first order. Maui Nui Venison has more protein per calorie than just about anything else out there, and it tastes unreal. Order your Ohana Reserve Box today and receive a free 12-pack of jerky sticks Be the first to try Zane's new course here: Reach out to Alex at alex@thedinkpickleball.com #Pickleball #PPATour #PickleballPodcast Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: -For everything else we do, visit -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball #pickleball #pickleballcourts ------------------ 0:00 Intro 3:09 UPA terminates three pro contracts 10:10 What does this say about ‘Big Pickle’? 20:27 Thomas vs Anna Bright at Courted Miami 24:35 Nominate your favorites for the 2026 Dink Awards 30:06 UPA to add AI line calling solution 35:25 Nick Kyrgios + Jack Sock, Stack Athletics 37:54 DUPR knocks out competition for USAP + APP 39:32 The Dink MiLP National Championships 45:07 APP Championships finish the year 48:44 New names take gold at PPA Challenger Raleigh 54:23 ALW + Jorja to team up in Daytona 56:16 Tesla paddles sell out and go missing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Zane is joined by The Dink’s own Alex Weaver for a deep-dive into one of the wildest and fastest-growing problems in pickleball: counterfeit paddles flooding the market. You’ve seen them on T-Mu, Facebook Marketplace, maybe even at your local rec courts… but the scale of the problem is WAY bigger than most players realize. Alex breaks down: - How knockoff brands are copying top paddles within weeks of release - Why major companies are fighting regulatory “whack-a-mole” to get fakes removed - How players are getting tricked by manipulated Google listings and fake reviews - The real impact on innovation, quality, and the future of the sport - What USAP and UPAA are (finally) preparing to do about it - Why $30 “bargain paddles” often cost you more in the long run Whether you’re shopping for a holiday gift, worried about getting duped, or just fascinated by the business side of the game, this is one of our most informative deep dives yet. 👉 Subscribe for new episodes every week and stay plugged into the fastest-growing sport in the world. There’s a completely new way to optimize your health. Give Blue Cannatine a try at or enter BETTER at checkout for 10% off your first order. Maui Nui Venison has more protein per calorie than just about anything else out there, and it tastes unreal. Order your Ohana Reserve Box today and receive a free 12-pack of jerky sticks Be the first to try Zane's new course here: Reach out to Alex at alex@thedinkpickleball.com #Pickleball #PPATour #PickleballPodcast Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: -For everything else we do, visit -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball #pickleball #pickleballcourts ------------------ 0:00 Intro 3:35 The counterfeit paddle epidemic 9:15 How can you spot a knockoff? 12:47 Does this happen in other sports? 19:04 It’s a big problem for the brands 23:11 The governing bodies’ role 26:35 It’s harder to stop players who want knockoffs 27:55 The ‘seal’ is printed on illegal paddles Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices