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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
530 Episodes
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Tennis broadcaster Candy Reid joins the podcast to recap her time covering the ATP tournament in Doha, where Carlos Alcaraz took home another title. Reid explains how Alcaraz was able to make quick-work of Arthur Fils in the final, and looks at how the World No. 1 continues to improve as he remains undefeated in 2026. The commentator also reacts to Jakub Mensik's upset win over Jannik Sinner, and analyzes what to make of Sinner's game after a lackluster performance in Doha.
Reid also recaps Tomas Martin Etcheverry's first title in Rio that saw him play two matches in one day, and gives her take on the status of The Golden Swing. The broadcaster also discusses several stories from around the game, including Stefanos Tsitsipas' struggles, the dynamic between Andrey Rublev and Marat Safin, and the coaching free-agent that could be a huge addition to some perspective players. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Journalist and podcast host Amy Lundy joins the show to recap The Delray Beach Open, where Sebastian Korda triumphed over Tommy Paul in the final. Lundy explains how Korda's game came together, and examines whether he can return to the elite ranks of the sport. The Tennis Connected writer explains what she learned from covering the event in person, from Paul's practicing habits to Fritz's decision to play the tournament, and what to like about Spanish newcomer Rafael Jodar. And Lundy also goes into great depth about why Learner Tien is here to stay, and why his movement is uniquely effective.
Lundy also weighs in on The WTA 1000 event in Dubai, where Jessica Pegula emerged victorious. She analyzes what makes Pegula effective against Amanda Anisimova, how finalist Elina Svitolina has continuously improved, and what to make of Coco Gauff's serve after some more struggles. The journalist covers the top storylines in the game as pro tennis enters North America in this lively discussion. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Nicolas Pereira returns to the podcast to recap another outstanding week of pro tennis, headlined by Ben Shelton outlasting Taylor Fritz in a thrilling Dallas Open Final. Pereira explains where Shelton has grown, and examines whether the American can continue to ascend in the men's game. The broadcaster also reacts to Karolina Muchova's huge 1000 level title in Doha, and predicts what could be in store for finalist Victoria Mboko, who makes her Top 10 debut this week at the age of 19!
Pereira also looks back at Alex De Minaur's dominant win over Felix Auger-Aliassime in Rotterdam, and discusses the recent run of withdrawals at the WTA 1000 in Dubai, as the crowded tennis calendar falls under serious scrutiny. The commentator also looks ahead to the ATP action Delray Beach and Rio, the latter of which part of the special "Golden Swing" section of tournaments in Latin America that Pereira is adamant about keeping around. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Steve Bellamy joins the podcast to explain the newest racket sport on the block, TYPTI. Bellamy details the genesis of the game several decades ago, and explains how and why it is played. Featuring a 22 inch strung racket, a 3.5 inch foam ball and played on a standard Pickleball court, TYPTI was officially launched last month and is here to stay.
Bellamy dives into TYPTI's place in the racket sports ecosystem, the origins of the sport's name, and why its scoring system is simply the best there is. And as someone who founded several sports networks such as Tennis Channel and The Surf Channel, and created the game now known as "Live Ball," Bellamy explains his way of thinking and offers some astute advice as an entrepreneur. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Abigail Johnson joins the podcast to discuss all the tennis around the globe as the 2026 season gets going. Johnson recaps the titles won on the WTA tour by Katie Boulter and Sorana Cirstea, and explains how Felix Auger-Aliassime was able to secure his 9th career ATP title in Montpellier. The broadcaster also examines what's next for Emma Raducanu, and explores how women's tennis in Czechia continues to shine after 20-year-old Sara Bejlek won her first pro tournament.
Johnson also dives into the WTA 1000 event in Doha, which has seen defending champ Amanda Anisimova and fellow American Coco Gauff bounced early. The commentator discusses where Gauff goes from here, Aryna Sabalenka's decision to skip the event, and looks at a hoist of other topics including Serena Williams' being cleared to play pro tennis at the end of the month. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Gill Gross joins the podcast to recap the 2026 Australian Open, which featured a fantastic finish to the fortnight in Melbourne. Gross explains how Carlos Alcaraz was able to complete the career-slam at just 22 years old, and how he displayed his tenacity and tactical brilliance down under. The host of "Monday Match Analysis" also reflects on Novak Djokovic's sensational victory over Jannik Sinner in the semifinals, and predicts the Serbian legend's future in 2026 and beyond. And Gross gives his thoughts on Sinner's setback, Alexander Zverev's ups and down, and how the tour will take on the task of competing against Alcaraz.
Gross also review's the women's final, which saw Elena Rybakina defeat Aryna Sabalenka to claim her first Australian Open title. The broadcaster dives into what truly makes Rybakina elite, assesses Sabalenka's performance, and looks at the top storylines going into the 2026 season on the WTA. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Casper Ruud joins the podcast for a chat about his quest to continue chasing the best players in the game, the pride he takes in what he has already accomplished in his terrific career. The former World No. 2 dives into the need to evolve at the top of the sport, how he prioritized his return to the court in 2026, and the steps it took to achieve accolades that make him the most accomplished Norwegian tennis player in history.
And then it's time to preview the business end of the Australian Open with Chris Oddo, journalist for Tennis Now. Oddo dives into Aryna Sabalenka's brilliance on the hard courts, and Elena Rybakina's elite level tennis as she returns to a major final. The writer also shares his thoughts on Novak Djokovic's fortunate route to the semifinals, Jannik Sinner's efficiency, and why Carlos Alcaraz continues to dazzle as he looks to complete the career-slam in Melbourne. Oddo wraps up the show by giving his predictions on Alcaraz's next test with Alexander Zverev, Djokovic's chances vs. Sinner, and what to expect in an epic women's final between Sabalenka and Rybakina. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Dustin Fox joins the podcast to preview the Australian Open quarterfinal round, which features four American women and all the top seeds in both draws. Fox analyzes Carlos Alcaraz's greatness, Jannik Sinner's form after surviving the heat, and the level that Ben Shelton and Learner Tien are bringing in Melbourne. The former NFL player and tennis enthusiast also weighs in on Novak Djokovic's chances for another grand slam, and whether young American Iva Jovic can challenge Aryna Sabalenka. Fox also dives into Coco Gauff's chances, and looks at some dynamic women's matches that include Jessica Pegula vs Amanda Anisimova and Iga Swiatek vs. Coco Gauff. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
The Australian Open rages on, and Barstool Sports' Eric Hubbs returns to the podcast to dissect all the madness in Melbourne. Hubbs recaps Stan Wawrinka's emotional win, the newfound consistency of Alexander Bublik, and how Daniil Medvedev rallied from two sets down to book a rematch with upstart American Learner Tien. The sports commentator also analyzes the breakthrough of young American Ethan Quinn, Tommy Paul's chances against Carlos Alcaraz, and whether Novak Djokovic, Ben Shelton or someone else is the third favorite in the men's draw after Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner.
And in the women's draw, Hubbs reacts to the brilliant performance of Victoria Mboko. Hubbs assesses Mboko's chances against World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka, and marvels at the youth movement the Canadian is leading in Melbourne alonside Iva Jovic and Mirra Andreeva. The Barstool Sports personality also weighs in on Naomi Osaka's tense R2 encounter, Yulia Putinseva's post-match celebration, and the number of American women still alive in Australia. The guys finish the episode by previewing the big matches coming up as The Australian Open continues. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Daily Express Senior Tennis Writer Yasmin Syed joins the podcast from Melbourne to recap the opening round of the 2026 Australian Open, where Novak Djokovic looks as fit as ever as he pursues Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner for the title. Syed examines Stan Wawrinka's form and attitude as he competes in his final tournament down under, and reacts to Joao Fonseca's early exit at the hands of Eliot Spizzirri. The journalist assesses whether Ben Shelton, Tommy Paul or another American make a run down under, and reflects on Gael Monfils' final Australian Open.
On the women's side, Syed predicts which player can challenge World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka. Syed dives into Amanda Anisimova's excellent form, Iga Swiatek's chances, and Naomi Osaka's outfit that captivated the entire tennis world. And Syed breaks down Viktoria Mboko's ability to contend right now, before previewing all the exciting matchups in Round 2 of The Australian Open. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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The first major of the year is upon us, and gambling experts Zachary Cohen and Kenny Ducey join the show to break down the men's and women's singles draws for the 2026 Australian Open. The analysts discuss Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz's status as overwhelming favorites, and look at whether Novak Djokovic has enough magic left in his racket for one more glorious run. Cohen and Ducey break down whether Daniil Medvedev, Alexander Zverev, Ben Shelton or other contenders can emerge, and list their favorite first round matchups.
And on the women's side, the gambling gurus assess Aryna Sabalenka's path to another title in Melbourne. The fellas discuss whether Coco Gauff and Iga Swiatek are on serious upset alert, they weigh in on Amanda Anisimova's chances to capture her first slam, and look at a list of potential contenders that include Elena Rybakina, defending champ Madison Keys, and newcomer Victoria Mboko. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Lorenzo Musetti joins for an exclusive chat about his breakout 2025, and why he will continue to push his own limits and chase the very best players in the game. The Italian opens up about his aggressive and flashy style of play, how his growing family continues to motivate him, and why winning an epic ATP Finals match over Alex De Minaur in Turin was a signature moment in his young career. The newly-minted Top 5 player also explains why he's always had an interest in fashion, and why he's extremely excited to take part in the MGM Slam in Las Vegas on March 1.
And then Leif Shiras recaps the first week of the 2026 season, which featured some terrific action and drama. Shiras discusses Aryna Sabalenka's brilliance in Brisbane, Daniil Medvedev's successful start to the year, and Alexander Bublik finding his rightful place in the winner's circle yet again. The commentator also reflects on Poland's triumph at the United Cup, analyzes Coco Gauff notching another win over Iga Swiatek, and examines whether Novak Djokovic could be embarking on his final Australian Open in a few days. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Joao Fonseca has been captivating tennis fans across the world since his first pro match in 2023. The Brazilian sensation joins the podcast to discuss his first tennis memories, how he's adjusted to the pro tour as a teenager, and explain his plans to achieve greatness and his goal of the No. 1 ATP ranking. Fonseca also recounts his first meeting with Roger Federer, and taking part in "The MGM Slam," an eight-person event in Las Vegas on March 1.
And Brett Connors previews the start of the 2026 season, which begins with the shocking breakup between Carlos Alcaraz and his former coach Juan Carlos Ferraro. Connors looks at which contenders could challenge Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, the early results in the United Cup, and Stan Wawrinka's impressive beginning to his final season on tour. The co-host of "Advantage Connors" also predicts the WTA champions this year, and discusses how "Garage Tales" with his dad Jimmy Connors became a smash hit. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Young American Ethan Quinn joins the podcast for a wide-ranging chat about the beginning of his career, and how he's found his game and identity in the ultra competitive world of pro tennis. Quinn details how he thoroughly attacks his off-season, and goes in depth of the mentorship he's received from players such as Tommy Paul. The young ATP player dives into the stakes at play when Americans face off against each other, and recalls his experience facing Carlos Alcaraz in Barcelona, during a pivotal moment of his 2025 breakthrough.
Quinn dives into how he honed his forehand into one of the top weapons in the game, and explains why the serve was always a priority for his development. The American also goes in depth into his interests away from the court and his passion for the University of Georgia, where he won an NCAA Singles title as a freshman. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Kate Daggett is the Co-Founder and Chief Marketing Officer of CourtsApp, a new company that aims to make it easier than ever to book a tennis court and get in the game. She joins the podcast to discuss how tennis entered her orbit, and how this idea was born in frustration, a frustration that she hopes to eliminate with this exciting endeavor. Daggett dives into steps CourtsApp has taken work with clubs and players, why it has entered the Pickleball space as well, and the value the game of tennis has provided to her in other areas of her life. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Jason Stacy has been a mainstay on the tennis tour for several decades, and with work with World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka has been groundbreaking. He joins the podcast to discuss his path to becoming one of the most respected high performance coaches in the game, and why he is constantly looking at problems and challenges from a different lens than his peers. Stacy goes in depth about his process for building trust with his players, and details the steps that Aryna Sabalenka took under his tutelage to have her major breakthrough, and become the best player in the world.
Stacy explains his philosophy on working as both a fitness and mental coach, and outlines the pillars of his teaching, "The Three E's," which are emotions, energy and environment. The accomplished grappler in his spare time dives into the similarities between jujitsu and tennis, the unpredictable variables that make the sport unique, and why he has decided to write a book on his coaching philosophy, aptly titled "The Pressure Code." Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Alexandra Stevenson joins the show to recap the WTA season, and discuss how each of the top players made their mark in 2025. Stevenson explains why Amanda Anisimova was the story of the tennis world this calendar year, and how the American has worked on her physical and mental sides to become a premier player. The analyst also assesses if Aryna Sabalenka's year was unfulfilled, dives into Iga Swiatek's growth on the court, and evaluates Coco Gauff's season which featured a Roland Garros Title and the decision to totally revamp her serve.
Stevenson weighs in on Americans Madison Keys and Jessica Pegula, and explains why every young player should study Italian Jasmine Paolini. And the former WTA vet lists the players she expects to keep climbing up the rankings in 2026, headlined by teenage sensation Victoria Mboko. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Cracked Racquets provides coverage of pro, college and junior tennis like nobody else in the industry. Their CEO and founder Dalton Thieneman joins the podcast to explain how the company was created, and in less than a decade became a destination for fans of the game. Thieneman explains the company's approach to broadcasting, and dives into their revolutionary "CrossCourt Cast" that enhances and expands college match broadcasts like never before.
The CEO shares his own personal story as well, which features a day job as a lobbyist in the state of Indiana. Cracked Racquets features several successful podcasts, partnerships with ESPN and the Intercollegiate Tennis Association, and has added pickleball and volleyball broadcasts to their catalog. Listen to Dalton Thieneman, the man behind the media juggernaut. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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The Cranbook Tennis Classic has become one of the top events on the Challenger Tour, and founder David DeMuth joins the podcast to explain why he embarked on such a passionate journey to bring the pro game to Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. DeMuth discusses how the idea came to be, why the location is a perfect fit, and how in three short years the tournament has become one of the best on the calendar. With several upstart players competing such as 2024 champion Learner Tien, DeMuth shares some professional and personal stories about the impact that The Cranbook Tennis Classic has had on his community.
David DeMuth is also the CEO at Doner Partners, and he has a highly successful career in marketing and advertising. The executive discusses how he uses his professional skills to help with his new tennis venture, and why telling the stories of players at the Challenger Level can be very valuable. The Cranbook Tennis Classic returns in the summer of 2026, and DeMuth pulls back the curtain on what really goes into putting on a pro tournament. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Texas A&M coach Steve Denton joins the podcast for a lengthy conversation about his time as the Texas A&M men's tennis coach, and he's built one of the premier programs in college tennis in the past two decades. Denton explains what he looks for in players, the value of teaching an all-court game, and why they've been able to churn out several pros including former Doubles No. 1 Austin Krajicek and cousins Valentin Vacherot and Arthur Rinderknech, who met in the Shanghai Masters Final in 2025.
The coach also gets candid about his own pro career, which saw him reach No. 12 in the world in singles and reach two Australian Open Finals. Denton looks back on the day he beat John McEnroe, and explains why getting into coaching was the right decision for him. It's an all encompassing chat with one of the best and most renowned coaches in college tennis, so listen intently! Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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