Talk Tennis - podcast cover

Talk Tennis

Michelle Heidbrink, Tennis Warehousetalktennis.podbean.com
Created for the tennis enthusiast & players of all ages and levels! Get a peek behind the scenes from WTA & ATP pros, industry experts, the physics behind tennis & gear guides! You‘ll stay up to date & well versed in all things tennis and learn more than you can imagine about gear (think: racquets, shoes, strings and MORE)! Powered by Tennis Warehouse.

Episodes

The Little Giant (Danielle Lao) Proves Her Aspirations On and Off the Tennis Court are Anything But Small

We check in with Southern California's very own Danielle Lao to see what she is up to during this break in professional tennis. She explains to us some of the hobbies that she is able to spend more time on perfecting -- who knew she was such a great cook and baker?! She also talks about how important building a strong team for success as a professional player is, but also anyone in the business world working on reaching goals. AND we chat about her new love for running and how her coach, Andy Ge...

Mar 31, 202056 minEp. 36

WTA Player Catherine Harrison Understands Social Distancing & Explains How She Went 16 Weeks With No Tennis

Navigating life as a tennis player is challenging and tough right now. This week, we chat with Catherine Harrison who explains how at one point in her career, she was not allowed to play tennis or leave the house for 16 weeks due to a severe injury. Her refreshing perspective and mindset are welcome as she explains how she spent the time, how she shifted to become more of a whole-food, plant based vegan athlete and how she competes now because of it! We also talk about: - Covid 19 Mental Health ...

Mar 24, 202054 minEp. 35

Did Someone Say Champagne Strings?! We take a Deep Dive into the development of HEAD Lynx Tour and How Tennis Pros Playtest Strings

Guess which ATP Pro played an integral part of developing Head's newest string? We can't say BUT we do take a deep dive into how Lynx Tour was thought up and created and dialed in to create one of our most favorite strings of 2020! We also talk all about the process of how the pros playtest gear and strings as well as break down the differences between each of the HEAD strings and which one will be best for you! You will also hear: - Which ATP & WTA Pros are using HEAD String? - the Lynx, Hawk a...

Mar 17, 202054 minEp. 34

When BNP Paribas Open gets CANCELLED, Tennis Warehouse Still Finds a Way to Bring You Cool Content from WTA & ATP Pro Players!

We're shocked too. The BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells has been cancelled and we're super bummed. But, we still have some great content to share with you and give you a sneak peek into all the fun stuff we have been doing behind the scenes. Chris joins me as we chat about all the cool videos we've already shot and some of the fun things we've done already with our time in the desert, like which pros are hitting the best right now, a sneak peek at some new NIKE coming soon and a playtest of Beth...

Mar 10, 202016 minEp. 33

Ask A Massage Therapist Anything: Dealing with Tennis Injuries

Being injured sucks! That means less time on the court and more time watching tennis from the couch. In this episode, we talk to a massage therapist and answer all of your questions including how to handle pesky injuries, when to consult a doctor, what we think about theraguns and so much more! Tune in to hear how a strained hamstring was solved over a few sessions of massage therapy. We answer: - What to expect when going to a massage therapist? We alleviate some of the potential anxiety regard...

Mar 02, 202045 minEp. 32

Wendy Yang: How a Pro Player Became an Inspiring Leader

Tennis helped transform her into the leader she is today. In this episode, Wendy Yang talks about how her work ethic and resilience as a tennis player helped shape her to become the leader she is today. As the President at Hoka and a known leader at Deckers, she talks about who inspires her, how to handle a tough day and what she loves about the work she does on a daily basis. Have a question you want to hear answered, email us: [email protected] Happy Hitting!...

Feb 25, 202036 minEp. 31

Tara Moore Explains It All Including the Greatest Comeback in WTA History

Imagine being down 0-6, 05-, 30-40. Yikes, that sucks! And then imagine crawling your way back, point by point, to win the match! That's exactly what Tara Moore did to stage the Greatest Comeback in WTA History! With over 20 ITF Titles, Tara Moore has seen all sides of life as a traveling tennis pro. She brings her British accent and funny personality to chat about all things tennis, including dealing with funding (or lack there of), health insurance as a professional athlete, playing doubles wi...

Feb 18, 202046 minEp. 30

Fred For You: Confessions of a Tennis Fanatic

Father of Iliza Shlesinger (Elder Millennial & Last Comic Standing), Fred Shlesinger geeks out about one of his three life passions: TENNIS. From what gear works best for him, to his tennis goals. Fred also gives us his insider info and tips on the best way to view the US Open! He tells me all about the athletes that impresses him on tour, and even tells some stories about generations of players from the past! Happy HItting and Keep swinging! Follow Fred: www.instagram.com/nyfred4u...

Feb 11, 202058 minEp. 29

Hydration Myths Debunked & All Your Sweat Related Questions Answered

Cramping on the court sucks! But why does it happen and how do you prevent it? In this episode, we talk to Andy Blow from Precision Hydration and he answers all your questions about hydration and cramping. We cover everything from losing electrolytes and salt on the court to how to prepare for a tournament in hot and humid conditions. Andy explains the science behind staying hydrated and how to combat it best for your body. How to Stay Hydrated on the Court: https://www.precisionhydration.com/bl...

Feb 04, 202051 minEp. 28

Beyond the Playtest: PRINCE Phantoms

Curious what Prince tennis has been up to? Our playtesters take a deep dive into the newest lineup of racquets from Prince: the Phantoms! Join Chris, Troy and Michelle as they breakdown the differences between each racquet in this family of flexible feeling frames. Our team shares technology updates, what has and hasn't changed in the new models and why they think these are amazing racquets for players looking for that classic, flexible feel in the modern game! Shop Prince Phantoms: https://www....

Jan 28, 202039 minEp. 27

What is Fairy Bread?! Aussie Open Preview + 2020 Trends & Best Products Revealed!

Curious what the players will be rocking at the Aussie Open this year? Tennis Warehouse playtesters, Troy and Tiffani, join Michelle to talk all about 2020 tennis trends including apparel we will see worn at the Australian Open and new shoes they are obsessed with. Plus, they jump into the Aussie Open draw and dish about the players they think have what it takes (and the ones who they think just won't measure up!) to win the first major of the year. And, find out exactly what fairy bread is and ...

Jan 19, 202050 minEp. 26

Lisa Raymond & Allie Kiick: Like Coach, Like Player

What makes a player/coach partnership successful? Lisa Raymond and Allie Kiick unlock some of what makes their connection so strong on and off the court! Between the two of them, they have 11 Grand Slam titles, an Olympic Bronze Medal, 2 NCAA Singles Titles and almost 100 doubles titles, including one they won together! One retired in 2015, while the other began her career in 2015. Lisa Raymond and Allie Kiick joined forces in 2019 and quickly found chemistry on and off the court. You will quick...

Jan 14, 202035 minEp. 25

Kristie Ahn Wants to See Your Noods (Noodles, that is!) & Talks About Life on the WTA

She's one of the fiercest competitors on the WTA Tour but also one of the friendliest and she just wants to walk on the court carrying a puppy! Kristie Ahn reached a career high on the WTA Tour in 2019 and still is one of the most humble, kindest, smartest players on tour. Super down to earth in everything she does, she chats not only about the highlights she had on the court but also what she loves to do off the court. From taking pride in being a Korean American player and building up her fell...

Jan 07, 202052 minEp. 24

Giddyup Giron! Marcos Ends 2019 Tennis Season on a High Note

Marcos Giron just ended his 2019 in the best way possible: winning a title and earning entry into the 2020 Australian Open! Giddyup Giron! The former UCLA standout talks about how his mentality has changed over the years, what makes him so mentally tough in close matches, and how his gear helps him perform to his highest level on the court. He opens up about the importance of him working on his mental game, how his perspective has shifted in the past year and he talks about the importance of hav...

Dec 31, 201928 minEp. 23

Holiday Vibes: Changing Lives with Tennis

This holiday episode will not only give you ALL of the warm and fuzzies, but also is a recap from the Pete Brown Junior Tennis Program Holiday Event that I went to in Los Angeles! Enjoy some onsite interviews; I was overwhelmed by stories of kindness, love and gratitude. After everyone at the event was so thankful for all Tennis Warehouse has helped with, I was feeling super grateful to be a part of this company. So, I wanted my colleagues to help explain what makes working at Tennis Warehouse s...

Dec 21, 201925 minEp. 22

Meet the Playtester: Julie Gauguery

Her laugh is contagious and her footwork is fierce -- take a listen as we dive deep into what makes playtester, Julie, the awesome young lady she is today! From growing up in France as a top junior player to being recruited to play college tennis at Arkansas State, she explains her journey and the lessons she's learned along the way. Everything from a life changing accident, to getting hired at Tennis Warehouse, you'll get just a glimpse into the big heart of Julie Gauguery. Bear with us as we g...

Dec 17, 201943 minEp. 21

Guillaume Diard is Putting a New Spin on Babolat Tennis!

Babolat, one of the oldest and most popular brands in tennis, has also become one of the most innovative. Guillaume Diard joins us on this episode to talk about his unique background and how he has helped inspire new trends at Babolat! He's been instrumental in updating Babolat shoes, bags, apparel and more. Listen as he chats about his inspiration and how his home in Annecy, France helps inspire and spur innovative ideas. Also, be sure to find out how you can get your hands on a pair of Jet Ter...

Dec 10, 201928 minEp. 20

Carlos Silva, CEO of World Team Tennis: How WTT Helps Innovate the Sport

With a deep background not only in tennis but also sports media, Carlos Silva joins us today to talk about his life and his involvement in World Team Tennis (WTT). Starting as the CEO in 2019, he has already implemented massive changes to make the format more engaging and exciting for not only the fans, but also the players. Take a listen to learn how WTT has evolved, how owner Billie Jean King plays a massive role in it and how WTT has even influenced the ATP and WTA Tour in modernizing rules! ...

Dec 03, 201934 minEp. 19

Pete Brown Junior Tennis Program: Changing Lives With Tennis

Tennis has the power to completely change someone's life. The Pete Brown Junior Tennis Program in South Central Los Angeles is dedicated to enriching the lives of children by providing free tennis, mentoring, and education, in a safe and positive environment. Founded in 2009 by Marty Woods in memory of his coach and mentor, Pete Brown, he explains how he has created such an empowering program and is joined by board member, Anne Star, who explains the impact tennis truly has on these families. En...

Nov 26, 201943 minEp. 18

Noah Rubin: Behind the Tennis Racquet & Putting Happiness First

Dreamer, go-getter, professional player, creator, and goal setter. On top of all that, he is providing players the opportunity to tell their story on a platform he dreamed up. These are just a few phrases that come to mind after chatting with Noah Rubin. He is helping to humanize the sport of tennis and connect humans. Whether it's working on Behind the Racquet, recording his podcast, competing on the court, or thinking up a new way to make tennis better for the fans -- his brain is always turni...

Nov 19, 201937 minEp. 17

Pro Player Talk + Playtesters Spill the Beans on 2020 Tennis Gear

In this episode, we were just going to talk about the ATP World Tour Finals...but then (as we often do) we started talking and spilled the beans about new 2020 shoes and racquets! We also gossip about who we think will be retiring in 2020; if Rafa can win another French; the future of American Tennis, and Kim Clijster's comeback. On top of all that, we make some bold predictions and even place some bets for next year! Have any questions or want to continue the conversation, email us at podcast@t...

Nov 10, 201938 minEp. 16

Playtesters Preview Next Gen ATP Tour Finals

The NextGen ATP Finals are here, and we are ready for all the action! Take a listen as some of the playtesters dissect the tournament for these up and coming 21-and-under ATP players. The playtesters take a deep dive into the format of the Next Gen ATP Finals taking place in Milan, Italy and also navigate through the draw of these 21-and-under youngsters. Playtesters, Mark Boone and Erik Meendsen, also talk about their path to Tennis Warehouse, what they are currently playtesting, a sneak peek i...

Nov 03, 201947 minEp. 15

New Balance's Bruce Schilling: When a Brand Becomes Part of your Tennis Family

New Balance's Bruce Schilling has worked in the industry longer than most of us and has the stories to tell! He has done everything from signing some of the top players to his agency, signing top players at different brands and working to mold and shape brands to become leaders in the tennis industry. Now, as a key player in New Balance's brand he explains how New Balance is a family run organization and how this brand has quickly become part of his family. Also in this episode, he chats with us...

Oct 29, 201936 minEp. 14

Brian Earley: What it's Really Like to be a USTA Official

Brian Earley has spent his career as a USTA official from the highest level at the Grand Slams to the lower level ITF Challengers. He's been a part of many controversial decisions over the years, and if you saw his face, you would instantly recognize him from the times he's been called out on court to make final decisions. In this episode, he chats with us about how and why he became an official in tennis and gives us some fun insights into behind the scenes decisions with some of your favorite ...

Oct 22, 201933 minEp. 13

ATP's Cameron Norrie: Going Pro & The Reality of Traveling on ATP Tour

Cameron Norrie, one of the rising stars on the ATP, joins us from China to chat about the ups and downs of life on tour. He gives us insights on his success at the college level, the best and worst parts about being a touring pro, what separates him from the top 10 players, how to hit his signature shot and so much more. Shop Ellesse: https://www.tennis-warehouse.com/Ellesse_Mens_Tennis_Apparel/catpage-MAELLESSE.html Follow Cam: www.instagram.com/norriee Subscribe, rate & review! Happy Hitting!...

Oct 15, 201922 minEp. 12

Catching up with One of Your Favorite TW Playtester's, Andy Gerst

He's one of your favorite Tennis Warehouse playtesters, and one of ours too! We chat with Andy Gerst as he gives us an update on everything he has been up to since his playtesting days at Tennis Warehouse. From coaching pros like Bethanie Mattek-Sands and Lucie Safarova to working as a National Women's Coach for the USTA, he brings a great perspective about where professional tennis is heading. We also chat new gear, philosophy, life hacks and so much more! Subscribe, rate & review! Happy Hittin...

Oct 08, 201956 minEp. 11

2020 Tennis Shoe Trends Revealed!

Want to know what trends will be hot when it comes to tennis shoes in 2020? So do we! Today we sit down with Tennis Warehouse shoe buyer, Spencer Boller, as he gives us a sneak peek into some of the exciting new shoes coming in Spring 2020. We also talk about what sports are currently influencing tennis and what direction tennis footwear is going. And don't miss where we talk about our top 3 favorite shoes and what shoe we would bring back if we could! And he also offers some insight on the crea...

Oct 01, 201940 minEp. 10

adidas tennis: Making An Impact On & Off the Tennis Court

Sport has the ability to directly impact social environments. But should sport come at the expense of impacting our physical environment? Thanks to adidas, the answer is no. This week is Brandography at Tennis Warehouse and we are celebrating all things adidas! Today we talk to Nathan Roach from adidas and he explains how they continue to push boundaries and are currently taking massive steps to reduce their environmental footprint and in other areas of the world of sport. adidas Brandography: h...

Sep 23, 201939 minEp. 9

Tennis Science Talk: Power Potential Explained

We are back at it as we join our in house Tennis University Professor, Crawford Lindsey, and string guru, Jonathan Wolfe, as they get into the nitty gritty of power potential! Bring your calculators and scratch paper as we help you tap into defining powerful potential and why that's important when selecting your next racquet! In this episode we dive deeper into defining power potential and explaining how YOU can find the most powerful racquet that you can swing. ➤Tennis Warehouse University: htt...

Sep 17, 201922 minEp. 8

Mark Weil: The Ups & Downs of Tennis Academy Life and Why Grigor Trained at Weil

Mark Weil tells us all about how he dreamt up the Weil Tennis Academy...an academy that even Grigor Dimitrov has spent time training at! Founded in 1997 in Ojai, CA Weil was the first full-time boarding school and academy on the West Coast. He talks to us about his passion for tennis, why he created what he did and all the ups and downs in between. Learn the traits he looks for in players and his best, and worst moments as the founder and Director of the Weil Academy. Weil Academy: www.weilacade...

Sep 10, 201936 minEp. 7