Dirty Tennis. Clean Living. The Podcast!

Get ready to be served an ace of a "shorty" as Ashley and Dena recount their smashing experience with Pop Tennis, the sport that's climbing the ranks of the racket world. You might be wondering, just what flips and dips does Pop Tennis have over traditional tennis? Imagine the thrill of ping pong, the strategy of tennis, and a sprinkle of joyous chaos all played with a paddle and a decompressed ball. Whether we were volleying for the first time or scoring points like pros, we learned that this game is an absolute blast for players at every level. From our tactical triumphs to the unexpected challenge of facing off against a dear friend in the finals, we share how Pop Tennis brings people together, sparking connections and laughter. So grab your paddles, Dirty Tennis fans, and join the rally—you might just find your new favorite way to serve up some fun.

Embark on an entrepreneurial odyssey with Elise Ivy, the dynamo at the helm of Rokne Pickleball Paddles, as she recounts her pivot from the glare of television cameras to the competitive world of sports equipment manufacturing. With a dash of humor and a sprinkle of stardust, Elise's story is one of embracing the pickleball craze and transforming it into a thriving business with her brother. Her infectious enthusiasm for the sport and knack for innovation shine through as she unveils the patent-pending technology of their Aero Blade paddle and the intricate journey from concept to court. Picture this: a former TV personality and her brother, mastering the art of synergy to conquer the burgeoning pickleball market. Our engaging chat with Elise traverses the rigorous process of product testing, enlisting professional athletes, and the delicate interplay between marketing ploys like sending paddles into space and the groundwork of logistics. We get candid about the cultural tide that's carrying pickleball into sororities and beyond, with Elise painting a vivid picture of strategic choices and the resolve to keep the focus sharp on what they do best: crafting exceptional paddles. The episode rounds off with a peek into the inclusive world of pickleball, as we discuss Rokne's initiative to launch an affordable line of paddles, democratizing the sport for all. Elise regales us with tales of underestimated elder statesmen of the courts and the ambassadors who champion the brand with authenticity, heralding a new era of pickleball fanaticism. Her parting words leave you inspired and in eager anticipation of what's next on her horizon, ensuring that her next visit to our show is one you won't want to miss.

The first interview in our 5-part "RacquetX Series" recorded on-location in Miami! Join Ashley and Dena to uncover the profound essence of building not only a business but also a legacy that spans generations. Embark on a vibrant journey with us as we unravel Miami's fashion tapestry, featuring the wisdom of Brad Singer, CEO, Lucky in Love, and the fifth generation of his family in the apparel industry. Brad shares an intimate look at the evolution of the iconic tennis brand, Tail, from its humble beginnings with a tennis-inspired denim skirt to the creation of his own trendsetting Lucky in Love label, igniting the "Free the legs" movement. Plus, the wild success of a partnership with K-Swiss, in particular, the newest shoe from Lucky in Love's Deco Collection. Lucky in Love has a fearless approach to fashion, marrying intuition with meticulous trend analysis and market forecasts. Our show peeks behind the curtain at their design team's creative process and teases an upcoming collaboration that's bound to excite.

Ashley and Dena swap their tennis racquets for passports, so grab your favorite travel mug, because you're about to join our global Dirty Tennis family on a journey through bucket list wonders and the future of our show. We're rolling out the red carpet for our fans from nearly 400 cities (!) to contribute their worldly aspirations and laughter to our tennis-loving community. Prepare to be immersed in a world where every serve comes with a side of wanderlust. So cheers, dear listeners! Keep those stories and questions coming, and remember to pack your sense of humor—traveling with us is always an adventure!

Ever find yourself intrigued by the alchemy of natural remedies or the latest in biohacking techniques? Get ready to embark on a whimsical journey that swings from the creation of homemade toothpaste with Diatomaceous Earth to battling the ever-present Florida mosquitos. Our animated discussion weaves through personal anecdotes, including a campaign to rename the stealthy no-see-um to a name that truly encapsulates their ninja-like abilities to spot us. You'll discover not just quirky tales, but also thoughtful insights into the nurturing yet adversarial dance we share with Mother Nature. Join us for a heart-to-heart on the transformative powers of red light therapy and the potential of sound frequencies for environmental restoration. We share firsthand experiences of healing—from tennis injuries to hearing issues—using the warm embrace of red light, and ponder the extraordinary notion that the right note could purify water or even heal the planet. Whether you're a seasoned natural health enthusiast or simply curious about the symbiotic relationship between humans and the environment, this episode promises to captivate your senses and might just inspire your next health quest.

Ever wondered if the secret to changing your personality could lie in someone else's blood? That's the quirky question we tackle right off the bat, as we muse about which iconic figures, from sports stars like Jessica Pegula to paragons of peace like Mother Teresa, we'd choose for a hypothetical transfusion. Dr. Richard Catullo, renowned for his surgical precision on the tennis court, joins us and playfully redirects the conversation to his Buckeye pride. But it's not just fantastical musings; we also get into the nitty-gritty of what really shapes who we are. We volley through the rise of inclusive racket sports like pickleball and pop tennis, celebrating their role in knitting communities closer and keeping generations active together. Our tennis journey mirrors the evolution of the game itself, where strategy and finesse play court to brute strength, and where every hit can be a stitch in the fabric of communal bonds. As the conversation swings towards the golden years, we don't just lob advice on staying active; we serve up strategies for doing so wisely. Reflecting on warming up properly, making smart plays, and the psychological warfare that can begin before the first serve, we ensure you walk away with some hard-earned insights. This episode is about how a love for the game can shape a lifetime of health, community, and joy. And remember, it's all in good fun – Dr. Catullo's anecdotes are a reminder to treasure the levity as much as the lessons.

Ever wondered how tennis clubs nail the perfect balance between member play and instructor schedules? In this episode, we serve up the secrets behind the seamless integration of vibrant tennis programs and the ever-growing demand for court time. Ed Shanaphy, BLVD's Dir of Operations and host of podcast Beyond The Baselines, reveals the finesse required to keep both camps volleying happily, sharing his ace strategies for building community on the court while maximizing earnings opportunities for club tennis professionals. Get your tennis grip ready for a spin with our exploration of Live Ball and 105, two exhilarating game formats surging in popularity. These are not your grandfather's tennis games; they're fast, they're furious, and they might just be the gateway to conquering net-phobia for rookies like Ashley. We'll share why these addictive games are skyrocketing in popularity and how they're serving up serious competition to sports like pickleball and padel.

Picture this: a world where the rhythm of a backhand slice syncs perfectly with a classical symphony. That's the world Ed Shanaphy, our guest and the Director of Club Operations at the Boulevard Tennis Club, lives in every day. Ed takes us on a journey that's as much about love and backhands as it is about crescendos and cadences. We toast to Dena's latest victory, walk the line between tennis and music with Ed's college days at Duke and post-grad days at London School of Economics, and even take a side trip into British TV land. Shifting the spotlight to the courts, we tackle a touchy subject head-on: the scarcity of female coaches in tennis and the unique challenges they face. Ed dishes out his experiences with the club dynamics and how female pros shine at country clubs, despite the seasonal staffing hurdles and housing conundrums. We volley through the politics of team management, with team captains wielding influence like seasoned umpires, and serve up some alternative tennis formats designed to keep the game fun and players fully engaged. Wrapping up with aces, we chat about the unexpected silver linings the pandemic brought to sports like golf and the ace up tennis's sleeve—its health benefits. We share anecdotes that reflect the importance of the right gear, the mental game's impact on performance, and family health strategies that go beyond the baseline. So, whether you're here for the stories, the strategies, or just for a good laugh, this episode serves up an engaging game-set-match you won't want to miss. Keep in touch with our Dirty Tennis, Clean Living journey on social media, and join in the conversation with your thoughts on the game's most inspiring language topics. Your input? It's as crucial as a well-placed lob.

Ever wondered what happens to the funds raised from a charity tennis tournament? Discover the answer as we chat with Phil Barnes and Isabella Martinez from Youth Guidance Mentoring Academy, who shed light on the transformative impact of the King of the Hill tournament proceeds. It's not just about forehands and backhands; it's about changing lives, offering vocational training, engaging after-school programs, and providing nourishment — all without charging those who benefit most. Our special guests peel back the curtain on the organization's relentless drive and the heartfelt success stories that fuel their mission. As the conversation unfolds, you'll feel the passion that Phil and Isabella bring to Youth Guidance, mirroring the values of collaboration and respect that are the foundation of the organization. Their anecdotes about the kids greeting attendees and sharing their personal journeys will tug at your heartstrings. Moreover, we sneak a peek at the historic building serving as their HQ, ready for an exciting renovation that symbolizes the bright future Youth Guidance promises for the community. Tune in for an episode that serves up an ace, revealing the real winners of the King of the Hill tournament — the countless lives touched by each serve and volley.

Life has a way of connecting dots in the most unexpected fashion, and on Dirty Tennis, we're here to share how the zesty hue of orange played a pivotal role in a surprising story of connection. Dena and guest, John Nichols, reminisce about their adventures in real estate, their mutual fondness for Oklahoma State University, and a serendipitous encounter involving a beach condo that proves the world is indeed a small place.

When our special guest John swapped his familiar surroundings for the sunny disposition of Florida, little did he know tennis would be his ace for connection and community. This episode serves up a delightful narrative as John recounts his evolution from casual pop tennis enthusiast to becoming an integral part of a thriving tennis fellowship. His tale isn't just one of backhands and forehands; it's a volley of experiences that underscore the pivotal role of sports in creating friendships and a sense of belonging. Laugh along with us as John shares the secret sauce to a marriage going strong for 40 years: humor and shared experiences. Whether it's about finding love in the unexpected corridors of nursing school or switching careers under the subtle guidance of a father's influence, John's journey is a heartwarming reminder of the serendipitous turns life can take. As we navigate through his anecdotes, we uncover the richness of relationships forged on and off the tennis courts, and the life lessons served along the way. And because love knows no season, we wrap things up with a nod to Valentine's Day, not just as a day of romance but as a continuous celebration of deep connections. John opens up about emotional milestones, from the pride of walking his daughter down the aisle to the eager anticipation of grandparenthood. If you're looking to ignite or reignite that spark in your relationship, or just enjoy a touching reflection on love's journey, let this episode be your match point.

Ever swung a tennis racket while doubling over with laughter? That's the kind of energy Caroline Sutton brings to the court as she joins us to serve up some candid confessions about picking up tennis to keep up with her ace of a husband. We volley through the comedic struggles of syncing one's menstrual cycle with their backhand, and the enigma of men's choices in tennis whites and black briefs. From the intimacy of couple's play to the hilarity of club socials, we spin a yarn that's as much about community as it is about the game itself. Who knew that a league of "baby sharks" could set a new tennis record within the IRTCA? This episode isn't just about backhands and volleys; it's testament to friendship and the unexpected places you can find it. And if you think tennis could use more flair, wait until you hear our pitch for dance-offs and walk-on anthems that could rival any wrestling entrance. Finally, we take a swing at the more serious side of things, discussing the importance of understanding menstrual cycles and hormone balance, especially for female athletes. Then, it's a respectful nod toward sportsmanship and the icons who set the bar, like Tim Tebow and Steph Curry, whose grace both on and off the field inspire us to mind our manners and maybe search for more creative expletives. Rounding things off, Caroline and Ashley embrace their respective imperfections with open arms, proving that sometimes, the quirks are the best part of the game. So lace up your sneakers, adjust your visor, and get ready to chuckle, cringe, and maybe even learn a thing or two.

🎾👰‍♀️ "Game, set, Girl Boss!" 🏅🩷 Life on and off the tennis court can be an exhilarating ride, especially when you're married to a tennis pro and running your very own club. Today, we're joined by the effervescent Karin DeCoste, who shares her intimate knowledge of the tennis world, from managing a busy center to navigating her experiences as a junior tennis parent. If you've ever pondered the impact of pickleball on our cherished sport or thought about switching your playing hand, prepare for an episode that's as unpredictable as a wildcard entry. Buckle up for a family road trip unlike any other—old RV, tennis gear in tow, and a map dotted with tournament destinations. Karen reflects on the life lessons our kids absorb through competitive sports, from handling victory and defeat to standing up against in-game cheating. So grab your racquet, or just your headphones, and let's volley through an episode that celebrates tennis, family, and the memories we make along the way.

🩷🎾 "Game, set, Run!" Ever wondered how a simple shift in your self-talk can revolutionize your life and your backhand? That's exactly what we're unpacking in our latest episode, as we lace up for an exhilarating journey through our New Year's resolutions. We're peeling back the curtain to reveal our personal goals and the power of positive affirmations, proving that the way we converse with ourselves can be the game-changer we've all been searching for. From the determination to enhance a tennis serve to the broader strokes of personal growth, we're setting the tone for a transformative 2024. 🌟🍀 Our conversation takes a sprint down the more physical avenues of our resolutions, where we reminisce about the thrill of our scavenger hunt race and the solace found in running, whether it's a half marathon or a daily jog. 🏆🏅 Join us as we explore how these physical challenges act as a bridge to mindfulness and deeper connections with those around us. It's not just about setting intentions, it's about the journey to fulfilling them with every stride and every handshake. Strap in for a heartfelt and motivational episode that just might set the pace for your entire year.

Ever scrambled to get tickets for your child's holiday performance, only to find it's the hottest event in town? Love a fat stocking on Christmas morning? Join Ashley, Dena and Jules join in as we swap tales of our family traditions, from the struggle of keeping Christmas trees lively in the Florida heat to the sentimental ornament rituals that test the boundaries of our evergreen's branches. As we jingle all the way through the episode, we share our stories of Santa's "staggered entry" and debate what antics might land us on the naughty list—spurred on by the cheeky suggestions from our Instagram followers. So, grab a mug of hot cocoa and join us for a festive foray into the world of yuletide conundrums and joys.

🎾😜 "Game, set, Language!" How many times have you caught yourself apologizing for no reason in the middle of an intense tennis match? Our latest episode features Deb Falco, a zestful tennis player who doesn't hold back when it comes to expressing herself on the court. We'll get a closer look at the colorful language of tennis matches and why Jules is pushing herself to stop saying "sorry". We'll also talk about the importance of sportsmanship in tennis, and how some of the temper tantrums thrown by professional players might be affecting the younger generations. Now, ever thought about the power of gratitude and community in sports? We sure did, and it's not just about tennis. Deb Falco, besides being a passionate tennis player, is also a firm believer in the bonds that are formed within our tennis community. Join us as we navigate through an emotional recount of a boat storm experience and the role gratitude played in that intense moment. Moreover, we'll reflect on how gratitude can enhance our physical and emotional well-being, not just on the court, but in everyday life. So, buckle up for a heartwarming exploration of gratitude, community and of course, tennis.

🎾😱 "Game, set, Smash!" We're serving a volley of fun and sports insight with Margot Weyhe, an accomplished pickleball and tennis player, in our latest episode of Dirty Tennis, Clean Living. Curious about the differences between tennis and the increasingly popular pickleball? Well, we're dissecting it all - from the unique mix of players in pickleball leagues to the unexpected potential for intergenerational romances within the sport. 😘 Our second serving, however, keeps us grounded in the court as we celebrate the pleasures and intricacies of tennis. The satisfaction of hitting the ball just right, the thrilling competitiveness, and the importance of connection in a world increasingly drifting apart - we're discussing it all. As we navigate the psychological aspect of the game, we highlight the delicate balance between socializing and competition in team tennis. And as a healthy bonus, we're exploring the significance of diet and water quality on performance. So, get ready to smash your preconceptions and serve up a new appreciation for these fascinating sports.

Do you ever feel your knees knocking when you step onto a tennis court for a match? You're not alone! Join us, Ashley, Dena, and Jules, as we candidly reveal our own battles with performance anxiety in tennis. We share personal nuggets on how we overcame our fear of losing, inspired by Arthur Ashe's quote. You'll learn how to embrace this fear and use it to enhance your game.

Harry Hill, an 89-year-old man, is always in motion: on his bike, swimming in the ocean, or playing tennis. He is a man who sees opportunity everywhere and who pursues it with the vigor and zeal of a man half his age. His joy for living is downright infectious! The secret to his happiness is simple. Tune in and find out how to live "Harry Style."

On today's episode, Dena waxes poetic over turkey costumes, the Thanksgiving Parade, and (strangely) dog shows. Ashley gives the details about United Against Poverty's Turkey Trot fundraiser. Jules explains how embracing gratitude impacts player results on the court. Plus a riveting discussion about the proper pronunciation of the word pecan. (Ashley's right on this one!) Follow @DirtyTennisPodcast on Instagram and @DirtyTennisShow on X (Twitter).