In this episode, we’re joined by Scott Jones and Alex Owen to share the story behind United in Service - our new initiative connecting athletes and families through giving back. Together, we explore how the program came to life, why community involvement matters, and how serving others builds stronger teams, deeper connections, and lasting impact beyond volleyball.
As many of our former United athletes near the end of their first college volleyball seasons, we’re taking a look back at where their journeys began - the recruitment process. This episode revisits their original conversations from last season, where they shared how they found their fit, made their decisions, and prepared for life at the next level.Recruitment is more than just choosing a program - it’s about understanding who you are as a player and a person. These stories highlight the lessons, mindset, and trust it takes to step confidently into the next chapter.We can’t wait to catch up with these athletes later this winter to hear how the transition to college life has shaped them - how they’ve grown, adapted, and continued building on the foundation they’ve worked hard to create.
In Part 2 of our partnership announcement series with SportsMED Orthopedic Surgery & Spine Center and Triple Threat Performance, we’re diving deeper into how this collaboration will elevate the health, safety, and performance of our United athletes.Our conversation covers what parents, coaches, and players really need to know about recognizing warning signs, building healthy recovery habits, and optimizing training the right way - not just harder.Discover what sets Triple Threat apart, how communication between coaches and care teams impacts return-to-play success, and why proper sleep might just be the ultimate performance enhancer.📝 Show NotesRecognizing red flags: How to tell when fatigue signals something bigger than normal tirednessThe truth about recovery: Why sleep is the most powerful performance tool availableWarm-up & cool-down essentials: Preventing injuries before they happenSoreness vs. injury: How athletes can tell the difference and respond safelyTriple Threat’s edge: What makes their certified staff and methods stand outThe power of communication: How trainers, coaches, and parents can align for athlete successTrust in the process: Why belief in your recovery team matters just as much as the work itselfInnovations in sports medicine: How technology like force plates and data-driven testing are shaping the future of youth athleticsWe explore what holistic athlete care really looks like - and how collaboration between coaches, parents, and medical professionals builds a more supportive environment for every player.This partnership is about more than performance - it’s about people. Together with SportsMED and Triple Threat Performance, we’re building a system where athletes can grow stronger, recover smarter, and thrive both on and off the court.
United Volleyball has partnered with SportsMED and Triple Threat Performance to bring next-level care and training to our athletes. From injury prevention and same-day appointments to performance strength training and return-to-sport recovery, this partnership is built to keep players healthy, confident, and ready to compete.Join Korohen as she sits down with the SportsMED and Triple Threat team to talk about what this collaboration means for our athletes, parents, and coaches - and how holistic care can transform the athlete experience.Show Notes:What inspired the partnership and how it benefits United athletes year-roundWhy quick access to care matters for player availability and confidenceHow prevention, treatment, and training now work hand in handWhat “return-to-sport” really looks like done the right wayHow United is building a stronger, healthier athlete communityThis partnership is about more than performance - it’s about empowering athletes to move better, play longer, and reach their full potential. Be sure to join us next week as we continue the conversation!
In part two of our conversation with Audrey Cagle, our 14U National Head Coach for this upcoming season, we dive into the moments, lessons, and people that have shaped her as both a coach and a person. Audrey shares one of her most memorable coaching experiences with United, reflects on the influence that’s guided her coaching journey, and opens up about how the United community continues to impact her growth.We also explore what “Better Together” means to her - and how celebration, joy, and connection show up in her coaching philosophy and team culture.📌 In this episode:Audrey’s most memorable coaching moment with UnitedThe biggest influence on her coaching journey - and the lessons that stuckHow the United community has helped her grow on and off the courtWhat “Better Together” means to her in coaching and lifeWhy celebration, joy, and gratitude are vital parts of team cultureA heartfelt close to this two-part series that reminds us why we coach, how we grow, and what it truly means to lead with heart.
This week, we sit down with Audrey Cagle, our 14U National Head Coach for this upcoming season, for an authentic conversation about adaptability, leadership, and finding purpose in the game.From growing up with a new coach every season to playing every position in college, Audrey’s volleyball journey taught her how to read people, reflect deeply, and stay grounded in her “why.” She opens up about her recruiting story, what keeps her coaching year after year, and the lessons that continue shaping her approach to developing players - both on and off the court.In this episode, you’ll hear about:Audrey’s experience as a multi-position athlete and how it shaped her perspective as a coachLessons learned from having a new coach nearly every season growing upHer recruiting story and the decision-making process behind choosing a collegeWhat keeps her motivated and fulfilled as a coach season after seasonHow reflection and observation guide her coaching styleKey principles she instills in players for growth on and off the courtThe importance of adaptability, confidence, and creativity for 14U athletesWhether you’re a coach, parent, or athlete, this episode is full of thoughtful takeaways on growth, competition, and connection.
Volleyball has been in Emma Jarrett’s life since she could walk - literally. In this episode, she shares stories of growing up in the gym, balancing multiple sports, and making the leap from college player to UAH assistant coach. She talks recruiting, resilience, and why focusing on the process beats obsessing over the scoreboard. In this episode, we sit down with Emma to talk about:Guiding players through the challenges of balancing school, sports, and the emotional ups and downs of being a student-athlete.How growing up with her mom as a coach shaped not only her love for volleyball, but the way she shows up for her players today.The lessons she hopes to leave with athletes that go far beyond the skills on the court.What qualities she and the UAH staff look for when evaluating high school athletesLiving with a servant mindset: how to show up for teammates, coaches, athletes, and the program as a whole.Full of heart, insight, and practical wisdom, this episode speaks to anyone striving to grow in sport or life. Emma’s reflections on mindset, teamwork, and leadership are thoughtful, grounded, and easy to carry into the game.
Join us for the final chapter of our conversation with Tristan Johnson, head coach of University of North Alabama volleyball, as he shares the story of his journey from small-town Texas to leading a Division I program.Growing up with volleyball in his family, Tristan’s path started unexpectedly. Through chance encounters, bold moves, and taking on responsibility at a young age, he climbed the coaching ranks - from Blinn Junior College to powerhouse programs like Alabama, Arkansas State, and Southern Illinois -before landing at UNA. Along the way, he gained national team experience, learned from elite mentors, and built a network that helped shape his philosophy.In this episode, Tristan shares:How early experiences and family influenced his love for the gameSeizing opportunities and taking responsibility as a young coachLessons learned from elite programs and national team involvementThe mindset and habits that helped him grow as both a coach and a personTune in to hear Tristan’s candid insights, powerful advice, and the story behind his rise to UNA volleyball - a conversation packed with lessons for athletes, coaches, and anyone navigating their path to success.
In part two of our conversation with Alyssum Reno-Smith, The Non-Diet Sports RD, we dive into the biggest myths and mistakes athletes make with nutrition - and how volleyball players can simplify fueling to play their best.From caffeine to common misconceptions, this episode covers what every athlete, parent, and coach needs to know to help athletes feel confident, focused, and fueled on and off the court.What you’ll hear in Part 2:How to encourage young athletes to fuel properly despite peer pressure around body imageCommon nutrition myths athletes believe (and the truth behind them)Caffeine: does it help or hurt performance?How under-fueling impacts focus, reaction time, and decision-making on the courtA common mistake athletes make with their nutrition during tournamentsAlyssum’s best advice for athletes to improve their nutrition without overcomplicating itSocial media Q&A: her answers to the most common questions athletes wanted to hear from a dietitianIf you missed part one, be sure to go back and listen to hear Alyssum’s journey from athlete to dietitian, her fueling tips for tournaments, and why hydration is the hidden key to performance.
What you eat and drink can make or break your performance on the court. And today’s guest knows exactly how to help volleyball players fuel and hydrate smarter.In this episode, we sit down with Alyssum Reno-Smith, a former athlete turned registered dietitian, to talk about how nutrition and hydration directly impact energy, recovery, and performance. From what to eat before tournaments to how to stay fueled and hydrated between matches, this conversation is packed with practical advice you can start using right away.What you’ll hear in Part 1:Alyssum’s journey from athlete to becoming a registered dietitianThe difference between an RD and a nutrition counselor (and why it matters)Why preparation is key during long tournament daysThe importance of timing meals before and after practices & matchesHow your performance can change depending on what foods you eatThe all-important topic of hydration and drinking enough waterGo-to recommendations for quick and easy pre-practice and pre-game snacksAnd this is only part one! Be sure to come back next week as we dive deeper into nutrition strategies every athlete needs to know - from recovery and travel fueling to busting the biggest myths around food and performance.
Not every athlete’s path is linear. United alum Audrey Krichev didn’t plan to play at Amherst, but when the opportunity came, she embraced it - and it’s shaped her college experience in ways she never expected.📌 Show NotesHow Audrey’s recruiting journey unfolded - and the surprises along the wayWhy she didn’t originally plan to play at Amherst, and how the opportunity openedHer mindset shift when stepping onto the teamHow volleyball has shaped her college experienceThe reality of balancing academics with athletics at a high-level institutionFrom balancing rigorous coursework with athletics to the personal growth volleyball continues to bring, Audrey opens up about her journey on and off the court.
In part two of our conversation with UNA Head Coach Tristan Johnson, we dig into the real details of recruiting that athletes often wonder about but rarely get clear answers on. From first impressions in an email to what he’s really looking for in a highlight film, Tristan shares how athletes can separate themselves in the recruiting process - and what growth looks like once they step on campus.📌 What to Expect:What makes an athlete’s initial outreach stand out - and what coaches notice first in an email.The right timing to initiate and build communication with a college coach.Why highlight films matter and how athletes should prioritize their strengths when creating one.How Tristan helps players handle the jump from club to college volleyball.The one piece of advice he wishes every recruit could hear before starting their recruiting journey.In the coming weeks, stay tuned for the third and final part of our conversation - where Tristan opens up about his own journey into volleyball, what brought him to UNA, and the lessons that continue to shape his coaching today.
In Part 1 of our conversation with University of North Alabama Head Coach Tristan Johnson, we dive into the recruitment journey from the coach’s perspective. Tristan shares what he looks for when evaluating athletes, the key reminders every recruit should hold onto, and why gratitude and character matter just as much as skill.Whether you’re an athlete chasing a roster spot, a parent guiding your athlete, or a coach supporting players through the process, this episode offers an honest look at what it takes to stand out and find your place in college volleyball.📌 What You’ll Hear in This Episode:How the recruiting process typically begins from a coach’s sideKey reminders for athletes: stop comparing, embrace gratitude, and keep an open mind to all levels What Tristan notices first when evaluating a recruitHow he defines “coachability” and why presence, demeanor, and character carry so much weightThe importance of showing who you are when things don’t go your way👉 Next week in Part 2: Tristan returns with even deeper recruitment insight and phenomenal advice for athletes looking to play at the next level.
This week on Better Together, Merritt Beason returns for Part 2 of a heartfelt conversation. From inspiring the next generation of athletes to sharing hard-earned wisdom from the highest levels of the game, Merritt opens up with the same authenticity and leadership that make her such a powerful presence on and off the court. We go deeper into the heart of what it takes to lead, evolve, and inspire.She reflects on what she hopes to change in the game, how she prepares mentally and physically, and what she’s had to unlearn to keep leveling up. You’ll hear:🌱 What Merritt hopes to help grow and change through her role as a United Ambassador - and why the next generation of athletes matters so much to her💭 The advice she would give to a young girl dreaming of playing in college (or beyond) - and why perseverance is more powerful than perfection💪 The hardest part of being a top-level athlete that no one talks about - and how she pushes through it🎧 What her pre-game routine looks like - and how it has evolved over time as she’s grown into a pro athlete🔄 Something Merritt had to unlearn as she moved up through the ranks from club to college to pro - and how it shaped her approach to the game todayMerritt’s perspective is an incredible mix of practical wisdom, personal growth, and a bold vision for the future. Whether you're a player, coach, or parent, this conversation is a reminder of the power of growth, leadership, and staying true to your why.
This week on Better Together, we’re joined by pro volleyball player, Nebraska standout, and proud United Ambassador Merritt Beason for one of our most personal and powerful conversations yet.Merritt opens up about the journey behind the jersey — the real decisions, emotions, and mindset shifts that come with chasing your dreams at the highest level.She walks us through the deeply personal process of transferring, what guided her decisions, and how she’s learning to let her “why” evolve with each season of life.You'll hear:How Merritt navigated transferring schools and made the right choices for herWhat athletes often stress about in recruiting that doesn’t matter as much as they thinkHer journey with the love of the game How she continues to grow and challenge herself in this stage of her careerWhy it’s okay - and even healthy - for your “why” to shift over timeThe lessons and mindsets she’s carried from the coaches who’ve shaped herYou do not want to miss this chat! No matter your role in the game, there’s something here for you. Merritt brings the kind of perspective and heart that will stay with you long after the episode ends - and we're so grateful for the time she spent with us!We couldn’t fit all the wisdom into one - so here’s Part 1 of our two-part episode with Merritt. Be sure to join us back next week for the rest of the conversation!
This week, we’re joined by Eli Hester - a recent commit to the University of West Alabama and a former 18 National player who took a nontraditional path to college volleyball. Hear what sparked her decision to join club her senior year, how she handled the unknowns, navigating the recruiting process, and the meaningful lessons she’ll keep long after her playing days are over. In this episode, we cover:what led her to pursue club volleyball so late in her high school journeywhat it felt like walking into a club gym for the first time at 18how she adapted quickly and found belonging in a new environmentthe challenges she faced throughout the recruiting processwhat sealed her decision to commit to West ALthe area of her game she’s most excited to grow at the next levelthe deeper life lesson volleyball has introduced to her and the part of the game she truly fell in love withHer journey proves that starting late doesn’t mean starting behind - especially when you’re all in.
Think evaluations are just about skills? Worried that one bad rep will ruin your chances? In Part 2 of our eval prep series, United Directors Korohen and Scott return to bust common myths and help athletes understand the bigger picture.They dive into:Common myths athletes believe about evaluationsWhat happens after evaluations wrapHow players can be evaluated for multiple positionsWhether you're a first-time athlete or returning player, this episode clears up confusion and helps you walk into the gym more confident and informed. We can't wait to see you this week!
It’s almost evaluation week, and we’re kicking off Season 2 with exactly what you need to walk into it with confidence. United Directors Scott and Korohen sit down to share what really matters during volleyball evaluations - whether you’re a returning player or walking into the gym for the first time.Nervous? Excited? Somewhere in between? This episode is your guide to showing up strong, staying grounded, and standing out for all the right reasons.From the energy you bring to the court to how you respond when things don’t go perfectly, this conversation is packed with real talk, helpful reminders, and honest perspective from coaches who value growth over perfection - and know what really leaves a lasting impression.Inside, we cover:Why your mindset matters more than you thinkThe qualities coaches are actually watching forWhat to do (and not do) if you want to stand outHow parents can be a calm, supportive presence — without adding pressureThe evaluation myths that need to goIf you’re ready to shift from anxious to intentional, this episode will help you step into the gym with more clarity, confidence, and purpose.We’re cheering for you. Let’s get into it.
Signing Day is this weekend- a big moment for our athletes and families!In this episode, Korohen chats with our United Registrar, Michelle, to walk through what Signing Day looks like at our club and what families can expect as the season takes shape.They touch on:How we celebrate Signing Day and why it mattersWhat to do right after you commitTips for uniform ordering and important dates to noteWhat’s coming this fall to help athletes gear up before official practicesIf you’re feeling excited but also a little unsure - this is the episode that brings clarity to the process and gets you feeling ready. Let's make it official and start this upcoming season strong!
It’s our very first podversary, and to celebrate, Korohen and Brittany are stepping behind the mic together for the first time ever! In this special episode, we reflect on the journey of Better Together - sharing stories from the very beginning, the challenges and surprises of producing a podcast, and what it truly means to honor the individuality of every athlete and coach we meet along the way. Join us for an honest, heartfelt conversation about what we’ve learned and the dreams we have for Season Two.