Salty Pickles – A Pickleball Podcast | Podcast on RSS.com

Salty Pickles – A Pickleball Podcast

Salty Pickles – A Pickleball Podcast

by co-hosts Alexis & Dieu

Season 1

20. WE WATCHED "PARTNERS"... THE PROS ARE JUST LIKE US

In this episode of Salty Pickles, we switch things up and react to the YouTube series Partners… but not in the way you’d expect. Instead of breaking down pro-level play, we couldn’t help but notice something way more interesting: the drama, the miscommunication, the pressure, the dynamics… it’s ALL the same stuff we deal with in rec play. Turns out, it doesn’t matter if you’re on a pro court or at your local open play… pickleball is pickleball 😅 We talk through the moments that hit a little too close to home, compare pro vs rec experiences, and share some honest (and slightly salty) takes along the way. If you’ve ever been frustrated with a partner, questioned decisions mid-game, or felt the emotional rollercoaster of doubles… this one’s for you. Let us know in the comments: what’s the most relatable pickleball moment you’ve had?

19. THE MEN'S SIDE OF THE NET: DAD JOKES, EGO & PICKLEBALL

Two Salty Pickles + Two Men = Mixed Talk, Dad Jokes Included Big thanks to The Picklr in Centereach, NY for hosting us on court and making this episode happen. And shoutout to Kyle Watts and Rob Sarraga for joining us on the courts then jumping on the pod with us to defend ALL men on the pickleball courts. We put our guests on the spot with questions straight from our Instagram followers, like how they’d feel getting unsolicited advice from women on the court and whether they think men need to take the lead in mixed doubles just because they’re guys. Honest takes, a little heat, and plenty of laughs.

17. DUPED BY DUPR

Got 15 minutes? Tune in to Episode 17 of Salty Pickles where Dieu and Alexis dive into the DUPR reset and the numbers that have everyone in their heads. Ever notice how games suddenly feel way more intense when DUPR is on the line? Like every rally matters just a little more… and somehow those 0.3 points feel like everything? We’re breaking down our thoughts and how this could possibly be one of the most well-thought out marketing schemes ever. Listen now and don’t let the numbers control your game 🏓 #saltypicklespod #dupedbydupr #podcastepisodedrop

16. ORGANIZED CHAOS: TOURNAMENT EDITION

This episode, we’re talking tournaments… and we’ve got a lot to say. After playing in what honestly feels like a ridiculous amount of tournaments, we’ve experienced the best, the worst, and everything in between. Now that we’re hosting our own, we’re taking everything we’ve learned and putting it into action. We get into what actually makes a tournament run well, the small details that make a big difference, and the mistakes that can throw everything off. Plus, we share some behind-the-scenes insight into what it’s really like trying to run a smooth event while keeping players happy. Whether you’re a player, a host, or just curious about how it all works, this one gives you a real perspective.

15. ALL IS RIGHT UNTIL A LEFTY SHOWS UP

In this episode of Salty Pickles, we investigate a serious problem: lefties. From awkward angles to moves that make zero sense to our right-handed brains, playing against lefties is pure chaos. We share salty stories, dramatic complaints, and fully reasonable excuses for every loss. We share funny stories, salty moments, and try to figure out if it’s skill, strategy, or just lefty magic. If you’ve ever blamed a loss on someone being left-handed, this one’s for you. 🥒 Is it skill? Is it strategy? Or are they just built different? Either way… we’re blaming the left hand. 🥒

14. WHAT'S IN YOUR BAG?

In this episode of Salty Pickles, we’re unzipping our pickleball bags and showing you exactly what we carry 🎒🥒 We’ve got the essentials, paddles, grips, towels, water, snacks 🏓💦🍌 and then the extras we probably don’t need 🙃 Alexis reveals the dirty tissues hiding in her bag 🤧🧻, and Dieu somehow carries four different hats at all times 🧢🎩👒🧢 It’s a simple bag check with a little chaos mixed in 😂🔥 Unzip it. Dump it out. Let’s see what’s really in there. 👀🎒🥒 Yes, we went a little emoji crazy with this one.

13. PLAY HERE, NOT THERE: LET'S TALK PICKLEBALL VENUES

Lucky Episode 13! Not all pickleball venues are created equal and we will nitpick!😏 In this episode, we’re breaking down what makes a pickleball venue a smash… and what makes us want to paddle-drop and walk away. 🏓 From court surfaces, lighting, and spacing to nets, and off-court vibes, we dive into the little details that can make or break a pickleball experience. We’ll share what we look for in venues, the features we love, and the common mistakes that drive players crazy. Whether you’re a casual rec player, a tournament grinder, or someone dreaming of opening the next great pickleball spot, this episode is packed with real talk, laughs, and Alexis’s two cents! Chances are, you’ll be nodding along and maybe rethinking your home courts by the end. Grab your paddle and let’s talk pickleball venues.

12. THE BLIND DATE OF PICKLEBALL

In episode 12 of Salty Pickles, we’re diving into blind draw tournaments and yes, we have opinions. Blind draw events can feel chaotic, unpredictable, and a little uncomfortable, but they can also be one of the best ways to meet people, grow your game, and strengthen the pickleball community. You sign up for your level, you don’t know who you’ll be paired with, and that’s kind of the point. We talk about what blind draw tournaments are, why people love them, why some people struggle with them, and what mindset actually makes the experience enjoyable for everyone involved. Spoiler alert, it has less to do with winning and more to do with how you show up. If you’re thinking about entering a blind draw tournament, or you already have and walked away with mixed feelings, this episode is for you. Bottom line, we recommend blind draw tournaments. Just bring a good attitude, a solid personality, and a willingness to support your partner and the people around you. Listen in, share your thoughts, and let us know where you stand on blind draw chaos.

11. PICKLED MINDS WITH SPECIAL GUEST KAYLA TEAPE

This week we’re joined by special guest Kayla Teape, founder of Pickled Minds, a community rooted in connection, mindset, and mental health. We dive into the habits, journaling practices, and mindset shifts that can help you not only improve your game but actually enjoy the sport of pickleball more. This conversation with Kayla is about showing up for yourself, on and off the court, and building routines that support both your mental and emotional well-being. If pickleball is more than just a game to you, this episode is a must-listen. Subscribe and tune in now!

10. #NoPlayNovember RECAP!

Episode 10 just dropped, straight from tonight’s recording! (yes, a week earlier than our normal schedule because #NoPlayNovember is over! Happy November 30th!) and we cannot believe we made it to double digits 🎉 We are so excited for this one. Tune in to find out what worked and what didn’t as Alexis wraps up a full month on the sidelines 🏓 because she’ll be back on the courts tomorrow! We also talk about what it feels like to get pickled out as an athlete. Even recreational athletes can burn out and forget how good it feels to do things they used to love. We break down the signs, the surprises, and the small wins that come with reconnecting with your sport 💪 Hit play, share, subscribe and celebrate Episode 10 with us. Stay salty 🥒

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