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

John reveals his unexpected path to pickleball after facing significant physical setbacks. Following an ACL injury from basketball and a subsequent freak accident, John discovered that pickleball offered not just physical rehabilitation but a whole new outlook on life. What began as casual fun evolved into a passion that reconnected him with his competitive spirit while teaching him valuable lesso...

Pamela, founder of Black Girl Magic Pickleball Group, shares her transformative journey from being picked last in childhood gym class to creating inclusive pickleball spaces where everyone belongs. Pamela opens up about overcoming self-doubt and the perspective of what it feels like to want to play with others that "look like you". How pickleball also becomes what she calls "a slipp...

Summary In this episode, we explore the powerful connection between pickleball and mental wellbeing with Dr. Jonathan Casper, a tennis-player-turned-pickleball-enthusiast who studies the intersection of recreation and mental health. Discover how those friendly games on the court act as powerful mental health interventions, fostering social connections that combat loneliness across generations. Dr....

Host Deirdre welcomes her daughter Shannen for an inside look at what it's like to be family to a pickleball enthusiast. From almost missing family portraits for tournaments to tracking mom's location through phone apps, Shannen shares candid and often hilarious stories about life with a pickleball-obsessed parent. While she's tried the sport herself, Shannen offers a refreshing perspe...

Ever wonder what pickleball was like before it exploded in popularity? Join host Deirdre as Matt shares his pre-pandemic pickleball beginnings—from creating makeshift family rules on Friday nights to the reality check of learning "real" pickleball. Matt reveals how this paddle sport transformed an introvert into a social butterfly, strengthened his marriage, and fostered meaningful conne...

Summary In this hilarious episode, Tracey takes us on her journey from coaching boys' sports to finding her true tribe on the pickleball courts. With candid stories about embarrassing moments, competitive play challenges, and unexpected friendships, Tracy reveals how pickleball became more than just a sport in her life. From her scooter accident to side-splitting stories of coaching kids, this...

Sean and Sydney found love where they least expected it—on the pickleball court! Whether you're single and hoping to find love on the courts or already playing with your significant other, this episode offers both laughs and valuable insights into how pickleball can bring people together in unexpected ways. Tune in for a conversation about competition, connection, and how sometimes the most me...

Kennedy and Damien's relationship blossomed through their shared love for pickleball. They discuss their journey from bad first impressions to friends to engaged. The intergenerational connections they made on the courts and the importance of maintaining a fun and supportive atmosphere while playing. The couple shares some funny stories — competitive spars, fights and embarrassing moments on t...

Deirdre and Amy discuss the unique community built around pickleball. They explore how the sport fosters friendships, inclusivity, and connections among players of all ages. Amy shares her personal journey into pickleball, emphasizing the importance of making newcomers feel welcome and the joy of building relationships both on and off the court — including vacationing together! The conversation hi...

Gaynell began playing pickleball at the age of 77. She shares her inspiring journey of discovering pickleball, the friendships she has formed, and the challenges she has faced. The conversation highlights the importance of community, breaking age barriers, and the joy of playing pickleball at any age. Gaynell emphasizes that age should not deter anyone from trying new things and encourages others...

Ella, a passionate pickleball player and researcher, talks about her journey into the sport and her groundbreaking PhD research on how pickleball fosters community connections and supports mental health. They discuss the social aspects of pickleball, the importance of community, and the unique experiences that players have. Ella shares her observations on the mental health benefits of the sport, h...