Welcome to Episode 9 of the Behind the Paddle pickleball podcast. In this episode, Rob Nunnery welcomes Matt Nola, founder of Lunar Pickleball. Matt shares his journey from discovering pickleball during the pandemic to establishing Lunar Pickleball, a pickleball paddle brand aimed at providing resources for players in Asia. He discusses the vibrant culture of Thailand, the need for better infrastructure for pickleball in the area, and his plans to build a premium facility in Bangkok. Rob and Matt also discuss the potential for growth in pickleball globally and the importance of community and support for players.

Welcome to Episode 8 of the Behind the Paddle pickleball podcast. In this episode, Rob Nunnery welcomes Erik Tice, a content writer for the Dink Pickleball. Erik shares his journey into the world of professional pickleball analysis, including his analytical approach to player performance and the importance of statistical data in understanding team dynamics. There is a need for better statistical tracking and analysis to enhance the understanding of pickleball player performance and team strategies within all professional pickleball leagues. Rob and Erik also discuss the evolving landscape of professional pickleball, team formats, the future of Major League Pickleball (MLP), and the impact of player contracts on motivation and competitiveness. As pickleball expands, there are new talents emerging from all over the world, especially from countries like India and China.

Welcome to Episode 7 of the Behind the Paddle pickleball podcast. In this episode, Rob Nunnery welcomes Ryler DeHeart as he shares his journey from tennis to becoming a professional pickleball player. They discuss the challenges (and joys) of transitioning from one sport to another, the importance of family in his pickleball journey, and the exciting growth of pickleball internationally. Ryler and his family have adopted an "RV lifestyle" with the goal of balancing pickleball competition with family life. He is also passionate about coaching and inspiring youth in pickleball.

Welcome to Episode 6 of the Behind the Paddle pickleball podcast. In this episode, Rob Nunnery welcomes pickleball pro Susannah Barr. Rob and Susannah discuss her journey into pickleball, her background as an adjunct professor and military linguist, and the challenges of being a pro athlete in a growing sport. Susannah also shares her experience of parenting a young athlete, how professional pickleball has evolved over the years, her experiences as a co-owner of a pickleball club in Boise, Idaho, and her plans to continue coaching and be involved with her community.

Welcome to Episode 5 of the Behind the Paddle pickleball podcast. In this episode, Rob Nunnery welcomes pickleball pro Dylan Frazier to talk about his journey in pickleball, playing in college, and the future of pickleball. Pickleball is growing exponentially among college students — Dylan sees a lot of potential for it to become a varsity sport. He also talks about pro pickleball formats, player dynamics, and how they can make the game more exciting for spectators. Plus, his future plans in pickleball and how he wants to stay involved in the sport even after his pro days.

Welcome to Episode 4 of the Behind the Paddle pickleball podcast! In this episode, Rob Nunnery welcomes pickleball pro Federico Staksrud to talk about his journey from playing tennis in Argentina to discovering pickleball in the United States. Federico shares his upbringing, the support of his parents, and his pickleball goals, including helping singles pickleball become a main showcase for the sport in the future.

Welcome to Episode 3 of the Behind the Paddle podcast! In this episode, Rob Nunnery welcomes pickleball pro John Cincola. Both players share their own personal journeys in pickleball, the evolution of the sport, and how pickleball has changed both their lives. They also talk about transitioning from tennis to pickleball, and how it can both be challenging and rewarding. John talks about building his own YouTube brand and building his own pickleball brand, including new courses he is working on.

Welcome to Episode 2 of the Behind the Paddle pickleball podcast! In this episode, Rob Nunnery welcomes pickleball pro James Ignatowich to talk about his pickleball journey from a junior tennis player to one of the best pickleball players in the world. James reflects on childhood tennis tournaments, getting kicked off his college tennis team, and how he avoided burnout. As a professional athlete, he also overcame mental health struggles and learned to deal with social media attention. James shares his goals for the future, both in pickleball and his personal life.