The Inside-In Tennis Podcast

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

John Lloyd on The Changes Tennis Should Make, Federer In The Hall of Fame and Davis Cup Reboot

John Lloyd joins the podcast for an all-encompassing chat about the state of pro tennis, and how Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner continue to dominate the men's game. Lloyd examines the depth at the top of the sport, and explains why he's in favor of eliminating Best of 5 matches entirely. The former British No. 1 also reacts to Roger Federer's selection to be the newest International Hall of Fame member, and discusses who else deserves serious consideration. And as a former Davis Cup player and captain for Great Britain, Lloyd makes an impassioned plea for a complete reboot of the event. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

11-26
43:55

Patrick Kypson on Winning The USTA's Australian Open Wild Card Challenge, Overcoming Adversity, and His North Carolina Roots

Patrick Kypson joins the podcast to recap his sensational second half of the 2025 season, which included four Challenger Titles after a career-high ranking. Kypson recounts how he was able to lock in and win the USTA's Australian Open Wild Card Challenge, which gives him a spot in the main draw at next year's slam in Melbourne. The American explains how he was able to analyze and improve his game while injured, the reason why he enjoys playing on the clay, and why attacking and moving forward is crucial in the modern game. Kypson also dives into his North Carolina roots, which included a tough choice between tennis and a budding ice hockey career. The pro reveals how he stays calm on the court, his method for measuring success that does not include wins and losses, and what his hobbies are when he gets some down time. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

11-24
33:25

Sinner Bests Alcaraz To Win The ATP Finals, Djokovic's 2026 and Who's Next With Steve Flink

The 2025 season is over, and Hall of Famer writer Steve Flink joins the show to recap the ATP Finals and the year's top storylines. Flink analyzes how Jannik Sinner was able to defeat Carlos Alcaraz in Turin, and explains why the Italian is so tough to beat on indoor hard courts. The journalist examines the Italian's commitment to evolve, the gap between the top two and their peers, and how Novak Djokovic will adjust to his new position off of the top of the tennis mountain in 2026. And Flink assesses Felix Auger-Aliassime's first Top 5 ranking, and the state of American tennis. As someone who's written for many of the biggest tennis publications in the world, Flink has established himself as one of the most credible voices in the game. He recounts how he discovered a love for tennis, his first jobs in the industry, and what he learned from legendary mentors Bud Collins and John Barrett. The Hall of Famer even shares his favorite memory of the Davis Cup on this informative episode of Inside-In. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

11-20
48:18

Eliot Spizzirri On A Breakthrough Season, Practicing With Federer and Following His Fellow Americans

Eliot Spizzirri appears on this episode of the podcast to discuss his path to the pros, and how he has able to have a breakthrough season in 2025 and reach his career high ranking. Spizzirri recounts when his junior tennis career got serious, his crucial development years in college with the Texas Longhorns, and the unforgettable experience practicing with his idol Roger Federer. The American explains the emotions of competing in his first US Open, and the ultimate thrill in 2024 of winning three qualifying matches to reach the main draw, which received a congratulations from Matthew McConaughey. Spizzirri sheds light on what it takes to succeed in pro tennis, and the areas of his game he worked to improve as he rose up the ranks. The winner of the 2023 ITA All-American Championships also dives into what it's like facing the best in the sport, why he's benefited from fellow Americans who have offered advice, and what it's like having a twin brother who's an elite squash player, and equally competitive. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

11-18
48:32

Recapping The 2025 Tennis Season With Nick McCarvel: From Nadal's Goodbye, To The Alcaraz/Sinner Era And WTA Excellence

Journalist and Host Nick McCarvel joins the podcast for thorough discussion about the 2025 tennis season, and his many roles covering the game. McCarvel explains the differences at each of the four tennis majors, and looks back at the emotional tribute to Rafael Nadal at this year's Roland Garros. The journalist also shares his thoughts on the Sinner/Alcaraz rivalry and their place as the new leaders of the game, why it's a special bonus to have legends like Andre Agassi involved in the sport yet again. McCarvel also looks at the outstanding season on the WTA, which saw Amanda Anisimova's rise to the top and more terrific tennis from Aryna Sabalenka, Iga Swiatek and Coco Gauff. He examines where tennis coverage can improve, discusses his work with the International Tennis Hall of Fame, and why the Olympics hold a special place in McCarvel's heart. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

11-14
48:38

Nick Monroe on Rybakina's WTA Finals Triumph, Title No. 1 For Tien and No. 101 For Djokovic

Nick Monroe joins the podcast to recap Elena Rybakina's dominant triumph at the WTA Finals, where she won every match to claim the final title of the women's season. Monroe also breaks down how Novak Djokovic was able to battle past Lorenzo Musetti in Athens, and the the 24-time major champion's subsequent decision to withdraw from the ATP Finals. The broadcaster looks at what makes Learner Tien so special after he won his first career title in Metz, and explains why this crop of American men continues to push each other to be better. Monroe discusses all the action taking place at The ATP Finals, where Jannik Sinner is receiving a hero's welcome in Italy and Carlos Alcaraz is one match away from clinching year-end No. 1. The former doubles pro looks at whether Taylor Fritz, Ben Shelton, Alexander Zverev or the rest of the field can challenge the top two, or if another Alcaraz/Sinner showdown is looming in the final match of the season. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

11-12
42:20

Richsport Co-Founder Sarah Koudouzian On Her Journey From Competitive Player To Starting A Tennis Fashion Company

Sarah Koudouzian joins the podcast to discuss her life in tennis, from competitive junior tennis player to co-founder of the fashion brand Richsport, which is quickly becoming one of the most popular fashion brands in the game. Koudouzian shares her stories from playing and the unfortunate injury that ended her dream, and dives into how she moved into the fashion world and became an entrepreneur. The co-founder dives into why her company embraces the elite reputation of tennis but seeks to enrich people who play at levels, and do it in ways that go well above and beyond money and financial resources. Koudouzian dives into how Richsport first gained traction, and why a direct message from WTA star Dainelle Collins led to an iconic collaboration that put the company on the map. And Koudouzian goes into detail about all the happenings of Richsport in the present day, from partnering with college tennis to becoming an active and reliable present onsite at professional tournaments. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

11-10
56:04

ATP Finals Preview With Greg Rusedski: Will It Be A Sinner/Alcaraz Showdown In Turin? Or Will Djokovic And The Rest Have Something To Say?

Former Top 10 player Greg Rusedski joins the podcast to preview the 2025 ATP Finals, as the game's very best head to Turin to battle for tennis supremacy. Rusedski discusses Novak Djokovic's form in Athens as the Serbian ponders whether he will play in Italy, and the analyst weighs whether Djokovic can have success in 2025 and beyond. The broadcaster also breaks down the battle for year-end No. 1 between Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, and looks at how their rivalry has transcended tennis in 2025. Rusedski surveys the entire field in Turin, looking at where players like Alexander Zverev, Taylor Fritz and Alex De Minaur are compared to their peers. The broadcaster explains why Ben Shelton is at the top of his "prospect list" and weighs in on the race for the final spot in the field between Felix Auger-Aliassime and Lorenzo Musetti. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

11-07
40:52

Gigi Fernandez on Her Road to The Hall of Fame, 17 Doubles Majors. and Creating The Tennis For Hope Foundation

One of the most accomplished doubles players of all-time Gigi Fernandez joins the show to discuss her journey tennis stardom, and she continues to use tennis for good in society. Fernandez explains how she discovered her gift in Puerto Rico, the decision to attend college, and eventually why she transitioned to the pros. The Hall of Famer reflects on her partnership with Natasha Zvereva, which produced 14 major titles as duo. And Fernandez makes a passionate plea to the tennis governing bodies to do more to celebrate the select number of living Hall of Famers and past champions. Fernandez also dives into what she's been up to since retiring, most notably starting her "Tennis For Hope" Foundation this past year. In the wake of Hurricane Helene which affected Fernandez personally, the two-time gold medalist took action and used her place in the game to help others in need. This episode features some Hall of Fame stories from one of the most decorated champions in tennis history. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

11-06
53:39

Sinner Reclaims No. 1 in Paris, Auger-Aliassime Pushes For Turin and Analyzing The WTA Finals With Bradley Klahn

Bradley Klahn joins the show to recap Jannik Sinner's run to the Paris Masters Title, and the Italian's improbable return to the No. 1 Ranking on the ATP. Klahn breaks down Felix Auger Aliassime's elite performance indoors, and his decision to rest during the final week as his battle with Lorenzo Musetti for the final spot at the ATP Finals hangs in the battle. The Stanford alum and former pro discusses Alexander Bublik's resurgent season, Valentin Vacherot's incredible breakthrough, and Novak Djokovic's decision to play in Athens. Klahn also dives into the WTA Finals where the final qualifier Elena Rybakina has reached the semifinals. The commentator weighs in on Madison Keys impressive 2025, Iga Swiatek's improvements on fast courts, and ponders if anyone can top World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka at this year's final tournament for the women. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

11-04
45:39

Fonseca's Breakthrough In Basel, Sinner Defeats Zverev In Vienna And More With ATP Writer Sam Jacot

ATP writer Sam Jacot joins the podcast to recap Joao Fonseca's biggest title to date in Basel, and explains why the Brazilian teenager is making strides to become a generational superstar. Jacot breaks down Jannik Sinner's narrow victory over Alexander Zverev in Vienna, assessing Zverev's level and Sinner's decision to re-invent parts of his game. The writer also discusses Belinda Bencic and Ann Li's recent tournament wins, with the latter being another American woman to have success in 2025. Jacot also reacts to the news that Saudi Arabia will host a new Masters event in the years ahead, and ponders how the schedule could be adjusted going forward. The jouralist also shares some early thoughts on the WTA Finals and the ATP Paris Masters, where Valentin Vacherot continues to impress and Grigor Dimitrov made a triumphant and winning return to the court. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

10-29
45:09

Content Creator Conor Casey's Path from Coach to Social Media Powerhouse, Teaching Tennis with Comedy and His NCAA Experience

Conor Casey joins the podcast for a conversation about how he developed his passion for tennis in Canada, and how he found his calling creating humorous and informative content about the game online. The coach discusses his own career playing junior tennis and at the NCAA level at Ohio State, and explains when and why he began making videos. Casey explains what goes into production process, using real-life experiences as inspiration, and the feedback he's gotten from club and pro level players. Casey also shares his thoughts on the Canadian tennis system both past and present, and examines the NCAA landscape in the current age compared to when he played. The social media sensation shares several personal stories such as playing against Daily Show host Michael Kosta in college, and lists several of his Canadian comedian influences as well in this engaging episode about carving your own path in the world of tennis. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

10-27
39:34

Wim Fissette on Carving Out A Coaching Career, Swiatek's Brilliant Wimbledon Run and Guiding Several Of The Game's Greats

One of the most accomplished coaches in pro tennis joins this episode of The Inside-In Podcast, as Wim Fissette discusses his path from playing the sport in Belgium to coaching seven different major title runs and counting. Fissette recounts his time working with Kim Clijsters during her extraordinary comeback, and how he developed his own style while working with players like Sabine Lisicki, Victoria Azarenka, Angelique Kerber and Naomi Osaka. The coach also dives into his time with his current player Iga Swiatek, what he has learned working with the Polish superstar up-close, and how things came together perfectly this past summer as she won the Wimbledon championships. Fissette also gives his thoughts on modern coaching's evolution, from how he uses data to in-match coaching and which tournament has actually perfected it. The coach shares his passion for Unbox Sports, an agency he co-founded that seeks to elevate and support tennis coaches while helping them reach their full potential. It's a fun and fascinating interview with one of the brightest minds behind several transcendent champions on the WTA! Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

10-24
52:39

Titles For Medvedev, Ruud and Auger-Aliassime + The Race For The Tour Finals With Candy Reid

Tennis commentator Candy Reid appears on this episode to recap some terrific action in the pro game, which saw some familiar ATP faces return to the winner's circle. Reid analyzes how Daniil Medvedev was able to notch his first title in over two years, and how Casper Ruud and Felix Auger Aliassime secured indoor hard court titles and remain alive in the race for the ATP Finals next month. The broacaster also breaks down how Leylah Fernandez and Elena Rybakina stormed to WTA titles, with the latter firmly alive for the final spot in the WTA Finals. Reid covers a wide range of topics including the Six Kings Slam, Alex De Minaur's competitiveness, and Novak Djokovic's future as 2025 winds down. The commentator also weighs in on rising WTA talents Iva Jovic and Tereza Valentova, Holger Rune's terrible injury, and the strong depth featured week in and week out on both tours. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

10-21
45:59

Fast Track Tennis CEO and Founder John Davey on The Training Tool That's Changing The Game

Fast Track Tennis is a training tool that feeds balls at a quicker and more precise pace than ever before. Hear from the founder and CEO John Davey, who joined the podcast to explain how this product came to be, and how he used his own backstory as a self-taught tennis player to shape it's development. Davey covers several topics about Fast Track Tennis in this interview, including his main goal of keeping the price point down to ensure access to everyone, and how his company came to partner with Olympic Gold Medalist and pioneer Zina Garrison on a joint "1-2-3 Method" for children. The founder also discusses the benefits for Fast Track Tennis as a tool for coaches, and explains why with the feeding machine and the subsequent app available on iPhones, there is no beating the amount of reps Fast Track Tennis can provide. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

10-17
35:01

Robbie Koenig On Valentin Vacherot's Life-Changing Run, A Family Affair In Shanghai And Coco Gauff's Wuhan Win

Robbie Koenig returns to the podcast to recap all the action he called at The Shanghai Masters, which saw qualifier Valentin Vacherot complete a life-changing run and win the most unlikely Masters Title ever. Koenig explains how Vacherot put it all together and seized the moment in China, and reacts to the spectacle of his match in the final vs. his own cousin, Frenchman Arthur Rinderknech. The commentator also analyzes what may be holding Novak Djokovic back a bit in these events, discusses Daniil Medvedev's improved form, and assesses Learner Tien's terrific rookie year on tour. Koenig also explains how Coco Gauff was able to block out the surrounding noise and win the Wuhan WTA Masters comfortably. The broadcaster shares his thoughts on Jessica Pegula's impressive win over Aryna Sabalenka, the battle for WTA number one, and the true value of getting the college tennis experience on this episode. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

10-14
48:47

Sports Science With Dr. Mark Kovacs: The Anatomy Of a Serve, And Why Tennis Players Are The Most Well-Rounded Athletes

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 for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

10-09
01:00:35

Pam Shriver on Anisimova's Beijing Title, Djokovic's Desire and The WTA Being In A Great Place

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 for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

10-06
53:28

Stan Smith And Gary Niebur On Their Book "Winning Trust," And The Staying Power Of A Sneaker Icon

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 for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

10-02
47:32

CoCo Vandeweghe on Fritz's Confidence, Team Competitions, Gauff Competitiveness and Playing Tennis With Dirk

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 for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

09-29
45:36

Recommend Channels