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The Inside-In Tennis Podcast

The Inside-In Tennis Podcast
Author: Mitch Michals, Bleav
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Host Mitch Michals takes you inside the world of professional tennis with the past, present, and future of the sport. This podcast features broadcasters, players, and many others who eat, sleep & breathe tennis. Stay in the loop and in the know with The Inside-In Podcast
494 Episodes
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Dr. Mark Kovacs joins the podcast for a conversation about his path from tennis player to high-performance expert, and his career at the forefront of training elite athletes. Kovacs explains how he transitioned into the world of player development, and makes the case for tennis players being the most well-rounded athletes in the sporting world. The performance physiologist also explains where tennis players need to improve at the elite level, and how working with other athletes such as track and field stars has led to some breakthroughs on the court.
Kovacs also examines the serve from his esteemed point of view, having spent considerable time dissecting the entire motion of the shot into eight specific parts. The sports technology consultant goes in depth into what specifically is holding back pros with serving woes, and how quickly issues can be fixed at the highest level. He's worked with pros such as Madison Keys and John Isner, and Mark Kovacs remains one of the sharpest minds in the tennis world today. You won't want to miss this episode. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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The Hall of Famer Pam Shriver joins the podcast for a wide-ranging conversation about the pro tennis world, and why the women's game in particular is in such great shape going forward. Shriver assesses how Amanda Anisimova stormed to another Masters Title in Beijing, and explains why she's such a great representative for the game and mental health. The broadcaster dives into the brutal conditions in Shanghai, and compares Novak Djokovic finally getting the adulation from the crowd to that of Martina Navratilova as he fights on in Asia.
Shriver goes in depth about several topics including Carlos Alcaraz showing wisdom in his schedule, Coco Gauff's working plan for her serve, and the race for the WTA's No. 1 ranking between Aryna Sabalenka and Iga Swiatek. The commentator also gives her opinions on the court speed debate and Gael Monfils' decision to retire at the end of next season, along with the announcement of the 2026 International Tennis Hall of Fame nominees, headlined by Roger Federer. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Tennis Hall of Famer Stan Smith and his business partner Gary Niebur join the podcast to discuss their book, "Winning Trust: How To Create The Moments That Matter." The co-authors explain how they became business partners and used the lessons that tennis taught them to teach people in all walks of life, and dive into the core ingredients they use to create life experiences that will better individuals and organizations alike.
Smith also reflects on the staying power that his iconic sneaker, "The Stan Smith Adidas," has maintained throughout the years. The two-time major champion shares his favorite colorways and collaborations that the shoe has been a part of, and discusses his documentary, "Who Is Stan Smith?" which is streaming now. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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CoCo Vandeweghe doesn't pull any punches when it comes to giving her takes, and she joins the show the discuss several of the top storylines in the pro game. Vandeweghe discusses the parallels that tennis has with golf's Ryder Cup, and explains why managing your schedule is crucial at this point in the grueling season. The former Top 10 player breaks down why Taylor Fritz's confidence gives him a leg up on the competition, and previews a highly anticipated final in Tokyo vs Carlos Alcaraz.
Vandeweghe analyzes Coco Gauff's ability to check her ego and overhaul her serve in the midst of competition, and shares her thoughts on the young crop of American women that are finding success early on the WTA. She also dives into the exciting and most revealing points in her new career as a broadcaster, and recaps an exciting day at NBA legend Dirk Nowitzki's tennis tournament in Dallas. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Journalist Matt Futterman returns to the podcast to give his review of The Laver Cup, having covered the spectacle for The Athletic in San Francisco. The writer discusses Carlos Alcaraz assuming the role of global superstar, Jannik Sinner's humble approach to success, and why The US Open realizes they have struck gold with their new Mixed Doubles event.
Futterman also dives into a few of written works such as the return of Jimmy Connors to Flushing Meadows and why rowdy crowds can be a benefit to the sport of tennis. And the journalist looks ahead to some of the top storylines as tennis hits the Asian Swing, with players like Taylor Fritz, Mirra Andreeva and Amanda Anisimova looking to notch a big result. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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He's a former Doubles No. 1, a commentator and coach to one of the best WTA players in the world. Mark Knowles joins the podcast to recap Jessica Pegula's run to the US Open semifinals, and explain what it was like coaching the American during her home slam. Knowles also explains how Taylor Fritz and Alex De Minaur were able to lead Team World to a victory over Team Europe in the Laver Cup, and why Andre Agassi was right where he belongs as the captain of the winning squad.
The broadcaster also analyzes how Iga Swiatek, Alexander Bublik and Alejandro Bublik were able to win tournaments as the Asian Swing kicks off, and predicts what to expect when Novak Djokovic takes the court in a few weeks time in Shanghai. And Knowles weighs in on Roger Federer's comments on the courts being too homogenized, Italy's Billie Jean King Cup title, and why good advice from your team is crucial to the development of young players. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Brad Stine's been a premier ATP coach for several decades with players such as Jim Courier, and he joins the podcast to discuss an eventful season working with American star Tommy Paul. Stine reveals how the pair overcame health and other odd circumstances to churn out some good results, and recounts that epic night match at The US Open where Paul emerged victorious over Nuno Borges, well after midnight. The coach explains how they've retooled Paul's offseason training, and why everyone is chasing Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner at the top of the game.
Stine also chats about his pride in another American Ethan Quinn, who the coach has worked since he first picked up a racket. And Stine dives into other topics such as the physicality of the modern game, the crowded schedule, and how the increased maturity that Paul has shown during their tenure together. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Amy Lundy joins to discuss The 2025 Laver Cup, as the very best players in men's tennis battle for bragging rights in San Francisco. Lundy dives into the history of this new popular event, and why introducing Andre Agassi and Yannick Noah as captains is another huge addition to the team competition. The journalist looks at whether Carlos Alcaraz can continue riding high after the US Open, how Taylor Fritz will bounce back after the Davis Cup, and whether new comers Joao Fonseca and Jakub Mensik are ready for this new challenge.
Lundy also explains why Roger Federer's presence continues to loom large in the Laver Cup and tennis, and reacts to his comments that the 2025 Roland Garros men's Final was the dawning of a new era. The writer also recaps Barbora Krejcikova's epic win over Emma Raducanu in Seoul, and states her case why a combined Laver Cup featuring the WTA should happen next. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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WTA coach Sandra Zaniewska joins the podcast for a great conversation about life on tour, as she has guided Marta Kostyuk to another successful season. Zaniewska reveals how the pair have handled the ups and downs of a grueling tennis season, and why having continuity is a valuable tool at the pro level. The coach also gives her thoughts on coaches wearing microphones, how she has to be an expert planner, and why you can't be too rigid when there are unpredictable moments in her line of work. And Zaniewska discusses what's next for Kostyuk and why she takes pride in being a strong representation for female coaches in pro tennis. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Journalist Molly McElwee is the guest on this episode, and she discusses the book she wrote that highlights the different champions that the WTA has produced in the 21st century, and just how unique and different each story is. In "Building Champions: Paths to Success in Women's Tennis," McElwee highlights how there is not one set method to produce a major champion, diving into the backstory and approach to the sport of the women who have made it to the top of the mountain in the grand slams.
The author profiles several champions such as the Williams Sisters, Kim Clijsters who had a renaissance after being a mom, Ashleigh Barty, Aryna Sabalenka and others. Go beyond the pages with this podcast as Molly McElwee reveals how this book was written, and what she learned documenting these incredible and inspirational women's tennis players. Hosted by Mitch Michals.
You can purchase McElwee's book here: https://www.amazon.com/Building-Champions-Success-Womens-Tennis/dp/1913759237 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Carlos Alcaraz and Aryna Sabalenka claimed the trophies at The US Open, and former Top-5 player Jimmy Arias joins the podcast to explain how the major champions achieved their dreams in New York. Arias dives into Alcaraz's serving success, how he's improved his consistency and why he is the only person on the planet that is giving Jannik Sinner serious problems. The broadcaster also reacts to Sinner's comments about needing to adapt, and gives his take on what Novak Djokovic and the rest of the ATP can do to challenge for grand slam titles.
Arias also discusses how Sabalenka has turned her serve into a weapon when it mattered the most, and why she continues to conquer the mental side of tennis as she collects major trophies. The commentator dives into Amanda Anisimova's career resurgence, Jessica Pegula's stellar performance at Flushing Meadows, and how Coco Gauff can overcome her own service issues and remain an elite WTA player. And Arias ends the show by telling a Davis Cup story from his playing days that is too insane to believe! Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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We've reached the semifinal round at the US Open, and journalist Chris Oddo joins the podcast to break down all the drama in New York. The TennisNow and USOpen.org writer recaps Novak Djokovic's quarterfinal win over Taylor Fritz, and explains how the Serbian legend continues to reach the business end of slams at age 38. Oddo dives into the brilliance of Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner as they advanced to the Final Four with ease, Felix Auger Aliassime's major breakthrough, and the unfortunate fortnight for the American men.
Oddo also dives into the women's draw which has featured plenty of excellent tennis and feel-good storylines. The journalist analyzes how Amanda Anisimova was able to avenge a brutal loss in the Wimbledon Final and defeat Iga Swiatek in New York, and he summarizes why Naomi Osaka's return to the final weekend of a grand slam is something truly special. And Oddo previews all the semifinal matchups including a rematch of last year's women's final as Aryna Sabalenka faces off against Jessica Pegula, and a transcendent, cross-generational matchup between Alcaraz and Djokovic. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Barstool Hubbs joins the podcast to discuss Week 2 at The US Open, where the action has heated up and the matches have featured some serious firepower. Hubbs reacts to Jannik Sinner's brilliance in the 4th Round, and assesses Carlos Alcaraz's chances to stop his Italian rival. The Barstool Sports contributor also discusses Taylor Fritz's role as the lone American left, his chances against Novak Djokovic in the quarterfinals, and what to make of fellow quarterfinalists Alex De Minaur and Felix Auger Aliassime as they prepare for battle.
Hubbs also breaks down Naomi Osaka's dominant win over Coco Gauff, and looks at the four-time major champ's chances to go all the way in New York. He dives into Aryna Sabalenka's insane tiebreak record, Iga Swiatek's impressive form, and American hopefuls Jessica Pegula and Amanda Anisimova, who gets a chance to redeem herself in a rematch of the Wimbledon Final. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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The US Open rages on, and journalist Lukas Weese joins the show to recap all the action from New York. The Athletic Live Reporter discusses the tense exchange between Taylor Townsend and Jelena Ostapenko, Tommy Paul's late night victory, and Coco Gauff's ability to fight through her service woes. Weese also explains why knocking off Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz will be a tall task for the field, but if anyone can do it, it's American Ben Shelton.
The journalist also breaks down Iga Swiatek's close victory in Round 2, Karolina Muchova's eclectic game, and the Jasmine Paolini being the subject of one of the greatest sports photos ever. And Weese analyzes Novak Djokovic's performance through two matches, and debates whether the Serbian can contend for the US Open title. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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The 2025 US Open is underway, and Mitch is joined by Anastasia Folorunso to break down all of the early action. The host of the "Ground Pass" podcast reacts to the Alexandra Eala's comeback win, Renata Zarazua pulling off a stunning upset over Madison Keys, and Daniil Medvedev's antics in a losing effort vs Benjamin Bonzi. Folorounso also dives into Carlos Alcaraz's new buzzcut, Novak Djokovic's form in his opening round win, and Holger Rune's emotionally-charged win in Round 1.
The podcast host also explains her strategy when attending the early rounds at Flushing Meadows, and shares which matches captivated her up close and in person. Folorunso dives into the best fashion trends, along with which female contenders can make a claim for the crown in New York. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Leif Shiras returns to the show to recap the Cincinnati Open, which saw Carlos Alcaraz outlast the heat as Jannik Sinner retired in the final. Shiras weighs on the brutal Midwest conditions, what it means for Sinner as he heads to the year's final major, and how this title can give Alcaraz the boost he needs. The broadcaster also explains what makes Iga Swiatek so dangerous after she notched another big title in the Queen City, and why Aryna Sabalenka's schedule is a fascinating subplot heading into New York.
Shiras also looks at the top contenders heading into The US Open, and examines whether Novak Djokovic will be in form as he aims for major title number 25. The commentator looks at the potential of Ben Shelton, Taylor Fritz and Jack Draper on the men's side, and dives into female contenders Elena Rybakina and Coco Gauff, who just parted ways with her coach. And Shiras gives his thoughts on the brand-new US Open Mixed Doubles event, which has been a smash hit in terms of popularity. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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We have a special interview on the podcast, on the launch day of a brand new tennis initiative that will elevate the game at all levels. USTA Coaching is the groundbreaking platform invests, educates, supports and rewards coaches at all levels, and we are delighted to be joined by CEO Craig Morris and Managing Director/Head of Business Development and Operations Megan Rose for an interview all about this exciting new project.
Morris and Rose explain why the USTA decided this massive coaching project was a worthy initiative, how it will grow the game at all levels, and why this program will lead to increased participation in tennis in all areas of this great country. The executives share some of their own personal stories, discuss several innovative features with USTA Coaching, and dive into this game-changing platform in great detail in this wonderful conversation. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Tennis commentator Jason Goodall joins the podcast to discuss all the action from the North American Hard Court Swing, fresh off the heels of Victoria Mboko and Ben Shelton winning their first Masters 1000 Titles in Canada. Goodall recaps how the teenager Mboko was able to go all the way on home soil, and looks at where finalist Naomi Osaka heads from here. The broadcaster also dives into Ben Shelton's breakthrough and consistency, and highlights the areas in which the American has made the biggest strides with his game.
Goodall turns his attention to Cincinnati, where he's on site calling matches at the new and massively upgraded venue in Mason, Ohio. The commentator discusses the returns of Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz and the differences they possess in their elite skillsets, as well as what to expect from WTA World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka after some time off. And Goodall dives into several of the game's top storylines such as Novak Djokovic's lack of match preparation, Daniil Medvedev's struggles, and the competitive drive that Coco Gauff takes with her to the match courts. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Pro player Asia Muhammad joins the podcast to discuss her journey on the tennis court, and how she has become one of the premier doubles players in the world. Muhammad explains why she gravitated towards tennis in an extremely athletic family, and why growing up in Las Vegas helped propel her towards a career in the sport. Muhammad goes into detail about her time spent with various partners such as Taylor Townsend and Jessica Pegula, and reveals how her current partnership with Demi Schuurs has led to several titles in 2025.
The American also gets candid about the current state of doubles and the new US Open Mixed Doubles format, as well as her general approach to life on tour. Muhammad reveals several interests off the court, and sheds light on how she's been able to play the best tennis of her career during the last few seasons. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Former pro and current commentator Vicky Duval joins the podcast for a lengthy chat about the Canadian Open, where local prodigy Victoria Mboko is arriving on the big-time after a win over Coco Gauff. Duval discusses Mboko's impressive game, and dives into Clara Tauson's performance in an upset victory over Iga Swiatek. The broadcaster also weighs in on Madison Keys' fighting spirit, Elina Svitolina's renewed confidence, and Naomi Osaka's momentum in Canada after making a coaching switch.
In the men's event, Duval dives into Taylor Fritz competitive drive after he advanced in a grueling three-set match with Jiri Lehecka. The former WTA pro also analyzes Ben Shelton's powerhouse style of play, Alex De Minaur's mobility, and whether top-seed Alexander Zverev or rising American Alex Michelsen can go the distance in Toronto. And Duval discusses her own tennis career, and the path that led her to the broadcast booth at Tennis Channel. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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