Pickle Me This — Sharing the fun, friends & stories of rec pickleball play

Daniel left a corporate IT career behind to do something that truly matters — building a space where everyone belongs. Known as @chaoticdad on social media, Daniel is also the owner of Dill Dinkers in Atlanta — and he's turned pickleball into more than just a sport. It's become a safe haven where people of all walks of life can connect, belong, and truly feel at home. His journey from disaster recovery volunteering and a corporate career to the court is a beautiful reminder that the most meaningful work we do often starts with simply opening a door for someone else. This is a conversation that will leave you thinking long after you press pause.HighlightsHow Daniel walked away from corporate IT to pursue something deeper — and why he's never looked backThe way Dill Dinkers has become a hub for some of Atlanta's most diverse and intentional pickleball communitiesThe way Daniel welcomes special needs schools, Pickle Latinos, Pickleball Queens, LGBTQ+ groups, and more — and why making everyone feel at home comes firstThe heartwarming moment a beginner class erupted in cheers — and what it meant to everyone in the roomHow pickleball helped Daniel personally rebuild his life after divorceDaniel's take on empathy, legacy, and what it means to leave the world a little better than you found itChapters00:00 Intro03:36 Building a community through pickleball08:19 Intentionally building one of the most diverse pickleball communities14:19 Welcoming groups like special needs schools, Pickle Latinos, Pickleball Queens, LGBTQ, and more17:10 The Meaning of Legacy and Community21:22 How working in disaster recovery shaped who he is today28:52 Building a community and legacy that he can be proud of - leaving the world in a better place30:18 How the pickleball community helped rebuild his life after divorce34:53 How mens' games are very different than womens' games37:52 Pet peeves on the court - targeting, blatant bad calls and playing in your skill level40:40 Embarassing moment on the court - happened while he was live42:20 Stumbling upon random pickleball courts in other countries43:57 The beginner class where the court errupted in cheer46:54 Personal growth through pickleball and doing what he is meant to do49:44 The power of emapthy and making everyone feel welcomed and included

Danielle, the face behind Paddle Battles on social media, discovered pickleball during the pandemic and found something tennis never gave her: pure joy without the stress. While she's fiercely competitive on the courts—her first tournament win ignited a fire that still burns—her comedic personality shines through her relatable social media content that resonates with players everywhere. From a childhood spent watching baseball games at Fenway Park to the surreal moment of playing pickleball on that same legendary field, Danielle's journey captures the magic of how this sport creates unforgettable experiences while building lasting friendships and community connections.Highlights:Traded high-stress tennis for the social, joyful nature of pickleball during COVIDBalances fierce competitiveness on the court with her comedic, relatable social media presencePlaying pickleball at Fenway Park—a field she grew up watching from the stands—was a full-circle, unforgettable momentThe infamous "Dream Breaker" game showcases her competitive fireFound emotional fulfillment volunteering with the Special OlympicsBuilt lasting friendships and community through the sportChapters00:00 Intro02:18 Transitioning from high stress tennis to pickleball10:39 How pickleball unleashes her competitive side13:29 The infamous Dream breaker game18:42 Tearing her miniscus21:00 Volunteering with the special olympics and how that has affected her24:21 The comedian side vs. the competitor side of her26:34 The new pickleball reality show shares her name - Paddle Battles28:42 The unintentional way she started her Paddle Battles social media account31:26 How playing pickleball on the Fenway field was unforgettable34:37 Biggest pet peeve - unorganized tournaments41:56 Helping give back to her local community

Jack journey from video game enthusiast to pickleball devotee showcases the sport's power to transform lives and build unexpected connections. After a friend's invitation led him to the courts, Jack discovered more than just a new hobby—he found a vibrant community that transcended age gaps and sparked genuine friendships. His story proves that sometimes the best cure for isolation is a paddle, a court, and people who show up ready to play.HighlightsThe addiction moment: knew he was hooked when he bought his first new pickleball shoesFrom screens to courts: ditching video games for an active lifestyle filled with real human connectionAge is just a number: finding mentorship and friendship across generations without noticing the gapsGiving back: the joy of playing with beginners and sharing what he's learnedBuilding a crew: how pickleball friends became travel companions and his social circleNavigating the Charlotte pickleball scene after relocating to a new cityHis competitive yet laid-back playing style that adapts to partners' energyChapters00:00 Introduction to Jack's Pickleball Journey06:11 He knew he was addicted when he bought new shoes07:24 Hanging with pickleball peeps & traveling together10:15 How his cheetah print hair came about13:22 Sometimes he wishes for longer waits during rec play14:22 Not really noticing the age gaps - people are just people17:00 His playing style - competitive yet laid back18:38 The infamous lob story and other memorable moments22:45 Reserving spots in the rack - a pet peeve24:17 The pickleball scene since moving to Charlotte28:51 His plans for the holiday break - getting in pickleball of course!

Diego's pickleball journey took a pivotal turn when he decided to venture beyond his friend group and show up at the courts solo. That brave decision transformed his post-college isolation into a thriving social life, as the welcoming pickleball community helped him develop confidence and master the art of small talk. It has evolved into meaningful friendships, professional networking opportunities, and a healthy coping mechanism for life's stresses. Diego's story showcases how stepping outside his comfort zone on the courts built both his confidence and connections in everyday life.HighlightsFinding an instantly welcoming community that encouraged growthLearning small talk and social skills that opened doors beyond pickleballAdopting a "yes mentality" that helped him push past social anxietyBuilding friendships that extend beyond the courts into everyday lifeThe unexpected professional networking opportunities through the sportExperiencing memorable firsts like his ATP and Ernie shotsUsing pickleball as a healthy coping mechanism for stressLooking to enter his first tournament and continuing to grow in the sportChapters00:00 Intro02:53 Mustering up the courage to go to the courts alone07:30 How pickleball helped him build self confidence off the courts13:55 The "yes" mentality and no longer worrying about social anxiety17:28 Friendships beyond the court and seeing pickleball people out in the wild19:55 Making new friends as an adult22:42 Professional networking through pickleball24:34 His first ATP and Ernie26:33 Getting hurt on the courts is no fun30:29 Pet peeves like keeping things moving and being open to playing with newbies34:20 How pickleball has become a healthy coping mechanism for him39:27 His most impactful connections made from pickleball41:53 The essence of pickleball and how he is looking forward to his first tournament

The Big Dink Energy podcast crew—Guy, Stephanie, and Stefanie—share how pickleball transformed them from casual players into podcast hosts united by laughter and authenticity. Their chemistry shines through as they discuss how their different perspectives complement each other, whether navigating tensions during early recordings or brainstorming ideas during car rides. What started as a family idea became the foundation for genuine connections and a podcast that celebrates both the therapeutic power of pickleball and the beauty of finding your people through sport.HighlightsHow three distinct personalities came together to form an unbreakable trioThe evolution from casual players to content creators who value community connection over competitionHow car rides became the creative space where great ideas, including the podcast itself, were bornThe therapeutic outlet pickleball provides for stress relief and how the sport strengthened their friendshipsTheir shared pet peeves on the court, from mansplaining to overly competitive players, that reveal their compatible valuesChapters00:00 Introduction to the Big Dink Energy Podcast Crew04:40 Life before pickleball05:48 The birth of their podcast08:00 Expectations vs. reality when first beginning to play12:27 Memorable moments on the court - backward rolls and more17:54 Pet peeves on the courts like mansplaining19:23 The roadtrip playing that ended in a welfare check23:19 Tripping over toddlers on the courts and in public24:57 The Art of Trash Talk25:29 The tensions between when recording their first podcast29:45 How lots of great ideas, like the podcast, start in the car32:55 What each of their personalities brings to the show34:22 The stories of how each of them met - different times, same place39:33 Getting Guy and Paddle Princess dancing in their videos too41:46 What they would tell their old selves before playing43:15 The heart of their podcast

John, known as Noizy Pickleball, went from living a solitary life to discovering a vibrant community through pickleball. What started with winning a set of wooden paddles evolved into a complete life transformation—improving his health, giving him a renewed sense of purpose, and helping him finally find a group where he truly belongs. His pickleball tattoo became a symbol of his commitment to the sport, even sparking a lighthearted rivalry when someone told him he hadn't "earned" it yet. Now, John is passionate about being a connector, helping others find their crew on the courts just like he found his.HighlightsFrom isolation to community: how pickleball pulled John out of a lonely existence into a vibrant social lifeWinning wooden paddles sparked a pickleball journey for his familyMeeting his wife by opening the process to "the universe"How life is a mirror and you get back what you put outHow pickleball changed him not just physically, but mentallyHis mission to be a connector and help others find a group where they too belongBuilding community both on the courts and through social mediaChapters00:00 Introduction to Noizy Pickleball and his career transition04:26 Life before pickleball was lonely06:47 Winning a set of wooden paddles is how they started playing10:56 There is no real price tag for joy12:59 How pickleball transformed his life and how he found his crew16:42 How the pickleball tattoo came to be18:39 An online love story and meeting his wife23:49 Being told he hasn't "earned" that tattoo from his on court rivalry28:50 Building community through pickleball34:31 Connecting with other social media personalities37:52 Funny moments on the courts and pet peeves42:34 Finding a sense or purpose and feeling like you fit in

Former pickleball skeptic Nikki never imagined a random flyer would change her life, but that's exactly what happened when she discovered the sport during a dark period earlier this year. It quickly became a lifeline, pulling her out of a mental funk and into a vibrant, multigenerational community she didn't even know existed in NYC. Within a year, Nikki went from doubter to devotee, launching two social media accounts and planning pickleball trips around the world. Her story proves that sometimes the thing you least expect can become the source of light, positivity, and transformation you desperately need.HighlightsHow a serendipitous beer garden advertisement led Nikki to try pickleball for the first timeThe moment she realized pickleball was pulling her out of a dark mental spacePlaying alongside an 80-year-old and a 13-year-old on the same court and witnessing the unique multigenerational magic of the sportDiscovering NYC's massive pickleball community after assuming it was just a "middle America thing"The rapid journey from nervous beginner to TikTok sensation @pickleballnikkiTraveling the world to play pickleball and connect with players globallyThe power of leaning into new experiences even when you're nervous or doubtfulChapters00:00 Intro04:11 Rescuing her dog from Korea07:46 The serendipitous start to pickleball13:50 Pickleball spanning generations is one of her favorite things18:29 Playing pickleball in Portugal21:49 How pickleball brought her old happy self back26:52 How social media needs more happiness and positivity28:24 The support she has received from her family and friends31:20 The excitement of her social media accounts resonating with others34:37 The joy and laughter of introducing her co-workers to the sport36:26 Embarrassing moments on the courts and pet peeves41:16 Aspirations of pickleball intertwined with global travel43:10 Bucket list countries to travel to next45:02 How playing for an hour is never enough47:25 How she would describe herself to others

Meet Shayn, who discovered her fierce competitive side on the court. Between calling strategic timeouts that became the stuff of legends and surviving a ball machine disaster during her own wedding weekend, Shayn proves that pickleball is anything but boring. She dishes on why she plays with earbuds to stay in the zone, how the court became her unexpected place for self-discovery, and why pickleball shows you sides of people you never knew existed. Get ready for stories about thrift store paddle treasures, artistic surprises, and a journey from corporate life to consulting while falling head over heels for the game.HighlightsHow playing pickleball gives you a new perspective on peopleHer biggest pet peeve: not following the systemMeeting her wife in her very first college classThe artist within: discovering her creative side beyond the courtFinding her very first paddle as a treasure in a thrift storeWhy building relationships through sports is invaluableChapters00:00 Shane's Journey to Pickleball06:01 How pickleball helped her unlock her athleticism09:14 How playing pickleball gives you a new perspective on people12:00 Her playing style as a fierce competitor and the earbuds15:33 The infamous league game when she called the time out18:22 The ball machine fiasco during her wedding weekend festivities20:26 Her biggest pet peeve .. not following the system!24:21 Pickleball is her "mistress"26:15 Transitioning from the corporate world to consulting32:34 Meeting her wife in her first college class36:16 Beyond pickleball: the artist within38:18 Finding a treasure (her very first paddle) in a thrift store

When Issa Johnson's mom challenged him to a pickleball match, he had no idea it would ignite a family obsession that would change his life. From having to get revenge when his friend stole his partner for a tournament to pulling off a tweener shot that left his dad speechless, Issa's story captures the joy, chaos, and community that makes pickleball so addictive. HighlightsThe trash talking that erupts when this competitive family hits the court togetherBeing selective but inclusive about who he plays with and creating the right court cultureGetting distracted by other courts' play and who's walking through the door (we've all been there)Pet peeves like people arguing over line calls and how it disrupts the gameWhy hiking might not be his thing but pickleball community events arePlaying pickup in Miami and the surprise of discovering who he shared the court withFinding peace through fishing when he needs a break from the pickleball grindChapters00:00 Intro03:54 How his mom got him and the rest of the family to play06:07 The trash talking that happens when the family gets competitive08:21 His Mom's wicked serve and him having to prove a point09:49 The funny stories from playing in tournaments14:31 The incredible tweener shot that stunned his Dad16:39 Making life long friends from pickleball18:48 Hiking? Maybe not his thing...24:16 Being selective (but also inclusive) on who he plays with26:19 It's way too easy to get distracted by other courts play and who is walking in the door28:25 Pet peeves like people arguing over calling shots31:46 Playing in Miami and realizing later who he played with that day37:59 Fishing is where he finds his peace

After relocating 90 miles from family and friends, mom Brittany and teenage daughter Emma discovered pickleball—and it transformed everything. What started as a new activity in an unfamiliar place became the bridge that brought them closer together, helping Brittany navigate 17 years of depression following the devastating loss of her first daughter. Through tournaments, community celebrations (like Emma's first drive to the courts), and moments of deep vulnerability, this mother-daughter duo found healing, joy, and their people on the pickleball court.Highlights:The awkward first tournament and the long, silent car ride homeFrom constant bickering on the court to genuinely enjoying each other's companyThe heated confrontation after winning their first medal togetherThe fierce but fun rivalry when mom and daughter face off as opponentsFinding support during grief anniversary moments on the courtThe pickleball community's heartwarming reaction to Emma learning to driveBrittany's journey with depression and rediscovering her identity through the gamePractical advice for other parents and teens considering playing togetherChapters:00:00 Introduction to Brittany and Emma01:38 A friend got them into pickleball after they moved03:52 Navigating mother-daughter dynamics on the court05:28 The long car ride home after their first tournament07:06 The community is what really hooked them on the game09:41 From bickering to bonding - the transformation11:33 Telling her homeschoolers that they needed a physical activity12:32 The rivalry between them when they play against each other14:16 The confrontation when they won their first medal17:33 What has surprised Brittany about Emma playing19:36 Funny moments and shared laughter on the courts22:50 Catching people off guard with a nasty Nelson23:57 How the community rallied around Emma when she started driving25:45 The moment Brittany realized she found her people in pickleball27:32 The loss of her first daughter29:58 Brittany got married at 18 and her marriage is still going strong32:17 Rediscovering herself after motherhood34:39 The bond of supporting each other when playing sports36:27 Emma is looking forward to singles play at the PPA39:52 Advice for other parents and teens who want to play together

Ever think pickleball was stupid before falling completely in love with it? Evan did too—until a money ball tournament changed everything. In this episode, the former soccer player turned competitive pickleballer reveals how the sport taught him unexpected patience, opened doors to genuine friendships and business connections, and challenged his mental game in ways he never anticipated. From showing up solo at courts to keeping spare gear in his car "just in case," Evan's journey proves pickleball is more than a game—it's a community that changes lives.HighlightsWhy Evan initially dismissed pickleball as "stupid" until a money ball tournament hooked himFrom soccer fields to pickleball courts: how his lifelong athletic background shaped his competitive approachHis professional career in health and fitness and how it connects to his pickleball journeyThe mental challenge that makes pickleball "the easiest sport to play, but the hardest to master"How showing up solo at courts leads to instant friendships and unexpected networking opportunitiesThe patience required for shot selection—and why it's the most crucial strategy lessonHis biggest pet peeve: partners making the wrong shot choices at critical momentsWhy he always keeps spare pickleball gear in his car, and a resulting funny storyThe business marketing he gets just from wearing his Solar Guy shirt on the courtsHis advice on drilling as the fastest path to improvementChapters00:00 Intro01:42 How he thought pickleball was stupid when a friend first introduced it to him03:18 How a money ball tournament finally interested him07:55 Always being athletic and his soccer years10:42 How his businesses got him started in pickleball14:35 The mental game of pickleball16:41 How cool it is to just show up at the courts and play19:16 The free business marketing that comes from his Solar Guy shirt23:09 His professional career in Fitness and Health25:32 Sharing business advice on the courts27:43 Most memorable moments on the courts30:18 The patience to choose the right shot selection34:35 Holding back on offering advice to others35:00 Drilling is the best way to get better38:33 The pickleball people he sees out in the "wild" and always keeping spare gear in his car, ready to play41:00 His biggest pet peeve - the wrong shot selection from his partner44:11 His future aspirations in pickleball

In this season finale, Deirdre sits down with Maddie and Jeramy, a couple who proves that pickleball isn't just a sport - it's a relationship game-changer. From competing against each other (with Maddie secretly hoping she'd finally found a sport where she could beat Jeramy) to creating their legendary friend group "Dinking Academy," their story is packed with laughs, love, and a few heated moments that almost canceled Christmas. You'll hear about their epic wedding week tournament, a honeymoon victory that came with unexpected perks, and how a simple paddle became the most thoughtful gift ever.HighlightsMeet two rec league addicts who somehow found time for yet another sport in their already packed schedulesMaddie's confession about her secret competitive agenda against athletic JeramyThe Christmas meltdown that almost happened over a pickleball serve (yes, really)How golf evolved from Jeramy's excuse to enjoy time with friends outdoors into his serious #1 sportWhy "Dinking Academy" is the perfect name for a bunch of gym friends who don't dinkTwo college kids who lived one floor apart but needed a dating app to finally meet six years laterHow extended family who traveled from far away for the wedding enjoyed the day-before tournamentThe honeymoon tournament win that came with a cool perkWhy some recreational players need a serious reminder about the "recreational" partThe family members who got sucked into the pickleball vortex thanks to these twoChapters00:00 Intro04:27 Their active lives playing in many rec leagues08:34 A reason to hang with friends, have fun and have a drink12:08 Maddie hoping that pickleball would be the sport she was better than Jeramy at14:00 Establishing the Dinking Academy to slow down their game - but has it?!15:39 How their pickleball friends have become the ones they lean on19:08 When pickleball brought the whole family together, the day before "I Do"22:16 Living in the same dorm at college but not meeting until years later25:04 Winning a pickleball tournament while on their honeymoon28:37 How Christmas almost got canceled over Jeramy's new serve32:23 People who are too serious when playing and the ones who call "out"36:45 The joke about being out on the courts for "fun and fresh air"40:55 A thoughtful gift - her first "nice" paddle42:36 The impact of pickleball on strengthening their relationship with each other and more45:38 Their passion for pickleball has been contagious for family members

Vladee and his family have become legendary in the Raleigh pickleball community for their incredible warmth and welcoming spirit. Over nine years in the sport, Vladee and his family have earned a reputation as the unofficial "welcome committee" at the local rec courts, greeting every new player with genuine kindness and infectious positivity. While they're all skilled players, what truly sets them apart is how they make everyone feel included and valued on the courts. From family dynamics and tournament adventures to the mental game challenges we all face, this conversation celebrates the beautiful community connections that make pickleball so much more than just a sport.HighlightsHow Vladee's entire family became the beloved "welcome committee" of Raleigh's rec courtsThe contagious effect of starting pickleball together as a family at the YMCAMastering the mental game Why a positive mindset can put nervous players at ease instantlyTournament stories from scenic Utah courts to nearly passing out from heatThe family bickering and coaching dynamics that every pickleball family will relate toHow genuine kindness on the courts creates lifelong friendshipsWhy picking on weaker players is the ultimate pickleball pet peeveThe magic of turning strangers into your pickleball family through pure warmthChapters00:00 Intro01:53 The family starting together at the YMCA04:27 How it becomes a mental game and you get into your own head08:03 Overcoming the mental challenge of the early days10:10 His dad getting hooked and it being contagious11:44 The family dynamics of playing together - the bickering & coaching14:01 The power of a positive mindset and putting people at ease17:44 A pickleball haven in Utah with beautiful scenery21:02 Playing in his first tournament with his brother Kenny24:05 Almost heat stroke during a summer tournament27:52 Pickleball in the hot summer vs. the cold winters32:12 His family being the welcome committee at the rec courts37:49 People who have become an important part of his life, through the sport42:25 Picking on the weaker player is his biggest pet peeve44:24 His favorite moments on the courts

What happens when your neighbor knocks at the door and your life plan falls apart? Morgan's story starts with playing with her partner and neighbor and leads to an unexpected obsession that saved her after her broken engagement. In this raw and hilarious episode, Morgan reveals how pickleball became her lifeline during the darkest period of her life. From getting a fat lip the size of a pickleball hole to discovering a community that rallied around her when she needed it most, this former gymnast's journey is heart warming. Warning: her addiction to the sport is contagious.HighlightsA stranger's knock at the door became her salvationFrom broken engagement to "pickleball princesses" group chatThe fat lip that was perfectly pickleball-hole sized but didn't deter herReigniting the competitive drive she didn't realize she missedThe community that showed up when her world fell apartPlaying in any weather because addiction doesn't care about comfortThe comeback tournament win that won her goldWhy she can't imagine life without this "crazy" sport anymoreChapters02:10 A knock at the door inspired her pickleball journey07:11 An athletic background of gymnastics and cheerleading09:49 The "pickleball princesses" girl group chat11:11 A sense of belonging with the pickleball community15:16 Pickleball as a lifeline during difficult times19:36 Support from her pickleball friends after her breakup23:14 Playing when it's freezing outside to when you are sweltering25:00 Getting a fat lip from a ball during play26:54 Assuming women don't play as hard28:31 Coming from behind to win gold in a tournament33:11 The impact of playing in women's league34:58 When you know you are really addicted to the sport39:00 Imagining life today without pickleball

What happens when a tough-as-nails fighter and security professional discovers pickleball? Shawn Paul's story will draw you in. From throwing punches to serving aces, he reveals how this "simple" sport literally saved his life, connected him with strangers who became family, and turned him into a traveling pickleball evangelist. Shawn's story is a testament to resilience, personal growth, and the power of community in sports.HighlightsLife-changing transformation - How pickleball pulled him back from the brink and gave him purposeStranger becomes family - The incredible Naples story that will restore your faith in humanityCross-country pickleball adventures - Epic travels and the characters he's met along the waySocial media magic - How he's building genuine connections in the digital ageThe unwritten rules - What "playing accordingly" really means and why it mattersRandom acts of kindness - The new shoes story that'll make you smileCourt pet peeves revealed - The behaviors that drive even the nicest players crazyWhy it's addictive - The real reason you can't stop playing once you startChapters00:00 Intro02:14 His life in private security and as a competitive fighter12:11 Working at the YMCA as the pickleball coordinator13:51 How pickleball saved his life16:00 It's up to you to decide what kind of player you want to be21:15 The amazing pepople he has met through pickleball22:44 The gracious stranger in Naples who took him in28:05 His adventures traveling the country playing29:45 Shawn Paul hero patrol and his appreciation for law enforcement32:17 His social media presence and personal connections34:22 "Reading the room" and dropping F bombs36:08 Pet peeves like jumping too fast and calling "You!"39:34 The generosity of strangers - new pair of shoes41:03 Practicing kindness and how you treat people44:49 The addictiveness of the sport

Meet Jason, the creative mind behind TikTok's Destination Dink! What started as his wife's gentle nudging during COVID turned into a life-changing journey filled with unexpected friendships, daily mood boosts, and creating viral pickleball content that has resonated with many. Jason proves that it's never too late to find your community - and have a blast doing it.HighlightsFrom reluctant to obsessed — Jason's complete 180 on a sport he initially avoidedHow pickleball became his daily mental health game-changerWhy his relatable TikToks resonate with so many playersCareer meets passion project — leveraging marketing skills to grow the pickleball communityWhen pickleball replaces everything else you used to do, and what was that again??Jason's philosophy on keeping the fun in the gameUsing his Destination Dink TikTok account to unite players across the globeBuilding genuine friendships and connections beyond just hitting ballsChapters00:00 Intro01:31 His wife finally convincing him to play during COVID03:54 Being critical on the courts to the ones we love the most06:16 Looking forward to playing after work each day and the mood uplift09:00 Celebrating holidays with others on the courts10:17 The "always out" guy is his biggest pet peeve12:47 Getting pickled when they least expected it16:16 The rise of his Destination Dink account on TikTok19:03 Playing pickleball vs. golf at home and on trips21:20 The fun content he enjoys making for TikTok23:26 How his career in digital marketing has influenced him26:10 The rebranding of pickleball names & rules to be cool27:37 Building friendships through the game29:58 The social impact of pickleball on daily life33:02 Bringing connection and a sense of purpose for empty nesters35:05 Favorite part of connecting with the broader pickleball community

What started as a way to stay active after a sand volleyball injury turned into Andy's most unexpected life transformation. Without even trying, he lost 80 pounds through pickleball and discovered energy levels he never knew were possible. But the real magic happened off the court — from finding someone to tie his tie for a wedding to building an incredible social network, Andy's story proves that pickleball isn't just a sport, it's a community that shows up for you in the most surprising ways. His journey from competitive-on-court, chill-off-court player to someone whose entire lifestyle changed will have you looking at pickleball in a whole new light.HighlightsLost 80 pounds without trying — pickleball was just supposed to be funEnergy transformation: went from tired to having energy he never knew existedThe tie story: needed help getting ready for a wedding, headed straight to the courtsHow an injury playing sand volleyball accidentally led to his best life decisionCompetitive beast on court vs. bubbly and chill personality off courtThe exhilarating scream heard 'round the court after winning a close gameLiving in Philly but practically a North Carolina pickleball ambassadorWhy he won't let his partners down — the pressure and motivation of team playThe surprising costs of pickleball addiction (spoiler: it's all the gear!)Chapters00:00 Introduction01:13 How an injury playing sand volleyball led him to pickleball04:56 Intensively competitive on the court and bubbly chill off07:38 Unexpected weight loss playing pickleball12:01 How losing so much weight has changed his life off the courts too15:42 Not wanting to let our partners down on the court18:24 The exhilaration (and a loud scream) of winning a close game21:19 Frustrations build when his opponent called multiple points out24:26 Living in Philly but you'd swear he lives in North Carolina27:08 Him and Anh - future Youtube'ers?29:26 Need help with something like tying a tie? Head to the courts!30:43 Embarrassing moments and pet peeves32:46 Before serving, say the score loud and proud!36:06 The surprising cost of pickleball - all the equipment38:03 Pickleball has changed his life

Meet "Wild Willie", a retired lawyer who refused to let retirement be a sentence to boredom. After 45 years of legal battles, Willie strategically mapped out his freedom years with five purposeful activities to ensure longeivity —pickleball being one of them. In this fun-filled episode, Willie serves up laughs with stories of embarrassing court moments and impromptu pizza deliveries, while also sharing the secret sauce to his 58-year marriage. From pandemic paddle-newbie to passionate player, Willie shows us that retirement isn't about slowing down—it's about finding new courts to conquer! Discover how this grandfather of nine balances family adventures, continued mentoring, and competitive play in a second act that might just be better than the first.HighlightsWillie's strategic five-pillar approach to retirement planning that goes beyond financesHow pickleball became one of his five intentional retirement activities during the pandemicHis ongoing work as a professional mentor, sharing leadership wisdom accumulated over 45 yearsThe unexpected origin story behind his "Wild Willie" nicknameHis 58-year marriage secret: friendship as the foundation of lasting loveSurviving a devastating financial crisis in the '80s and rebuilding for retirementThe embarrassing court moment that had everyone laughing (including Willie)Why multi-generational family vacations create memories that last a lifetimeHis practical advice for those approaching retirement: plan for purpose, not just pensionThe surprising social connections that make pickleball about much more than just the gameChapters00:00 Introduction to Wild Willie03:06 Leadership and his career as a lawyer06:33 Happy to have a large number of his grandkids close by07:51 Golf brought him to North Carolina08:48 The secret to being married for 58 years11:53 Transitioning to retirement by truly preparing for it18:01 Deciding that he was going to start playing pickleball during retirement21:15 Why having a close knit relationship with his grand kids is important23:10 Multi generational family vacations28:48 Embarassing moments on the courts30:03 Meeting the coolest people on the courts31:50 Doing what he was told and delivering pizza33:57 Pet peeve of people not following the rec play rules35:03 Mentoring the next generation is so important43:03 "Younger next year" ad staying active is his secret46:30 The impact of the pickleball community

What began as Jed's pandemic hobby turned into a family obsession that Stacy initially resisted. Now she's the one who has to be peeled from the courts! The Gants reveal how pickleball became more than just a sport — transforming into Stacy's escape from her packed schedule, Jed's solution to making new friends midlife, and even a competitive battleground with their teenage son Oliver. From heated league disputes to cross-country road trips with pickleball buddies, this episode uncovers how three yellow balls changed everything for one family.HighlightsJed's COVID beginnings turned pickleball obsessionStacy's journey from "isn't that for retirees?" to being a huge enthusiastHow pickleball became Stacy's escape valve while juggling teenagers, career, and PhD studiesJed's candid take on male friendships after 40 and how pickleball has enriched itThe unexpected deep bonding during a cross-country road trip with a pickleball buddyThe complete family bonding that sport has brought, even with their daughter who doesn't playSon Oliver joins to share the satisfaction of beating his parents on the courtHow tempers flaring during competitive league play over an "out" callHow pickleball transformed from a casual hobby to the family's social lifelineChapters00:52 Introduction04:37 The family dynamic while just Jed was playing06:14 Stacy joins the pickleball fun after FOMO10:44 Balancing their schedules and squeezing in pickleball14:37 Why they jokingly call their kids "pickleball orphans"19:33 The role of pickleball as a coping mechanism23:12 Discovering playing styles and how to be a supportive partner29:46 When others give unsolicited advice on the courts30:47 Their embarrassing moments on the courts32:11 Opponents who really want to win and competitive leagues37:49 Oliver's own take on pickleball and how it has bonded their family43:48 Future goal of playing pickleball in all 50 states46:43 The surprise of amazing new friendships and deep bonds

From teenage friends to pickleball besties! In this heartwarming and hilarious episode of Pickle Me This, host Deirdre dives into the evolving friendship between Anh and Jennifer — who initially disliked each other but now can't imagine life without each other and pickleball. With laugh-out-loud stories about their wrong-door entrance that stopped the courts, secret on-court communication codes, and "one more game" mishaps that literally sent them flying, this episode captures the true magic of pickleball.HighlightsFrom teenage frenemies to inseparable pickleball partners — the ultimate "enemies to besties" story!Secret hand signals, trash talk tactics, and the hilarious truth about keeping score"One more game" gone wrong: - when enthusiasm meets gravity (and gravity wins)The sacred post-game ritual that involves food, more food, and did we mention food?Why they refuse to let anyone "take it easy" on them—and how they're proving doubters wrongFinding belonging in the pickleball community (even when you can't remember anyone's name)Their mission to show everyone "we're not the same players we were last year"How pickleball transformed their friendship from occasional hangouts to quality time every weekChapters00:00 How they became friends as teenagers03:38 The Journey to Pickleball04:11 Jenn had to harass Anh to just try pickleball07:25 Everyone stopped playing to watch them come in the wrong door09:46 The moment they knew they were hooked10:31 Their playing dynamic is about having fun11:23 Trash talking and competition15:45 Their secret communication style on the courts18:24 Challenges and frustrations19:59 Post game ritual - eating!22:04 "As long as I don't get hit" - and getting hit in the face24:54 Staying for "one more" and falling flat28:16 Pet peeves - when people "take it easy" on you29:40 Anh is the official score keeper32:51 Finding belonging and forgetting people's names35:33 The surprising and fun things about finding community37:25 Personal growth through pickleball39:45 Wanting to prove themselves: we're better now43:24 Future aspirations in pickleball45:01 Strengthening their friendship with more quality time