I AM Volleyball Podcast

Welcome back to the podcast! Today we’re diving into some of the details that separate good coaches from great ones. We talk about training your eyes off the ball and why the best coaches see so much more than just the contact. We get into the power of communication — how you say something can matter even more than what you say — and why delivery changes how athletes receive feedback. We also break down building purposeful drills that actually transfer to the game, not just drills that look good in practice. And at the heart of it all, we reflect on why we coach in the first place — the impact, the relationships, and the responsibility that comes with leading athletes. As always, we’ve got shoutouts, stories, and a Quote of the Day to wrap things up. Let’s get into it!

This episode is a special one. We take a moment to honor and give a heartfelt shoutout to original I AM Volleyball Director, Todd Lyon—someone who helped lay the foundation for what this club is today. From there, we dive into one of the most important (and often overlooked) parts of a successful season: team bonding. How do you build it? More importantly, how do you keep it strong when things get tough? Poddy Training is back, featuring three players from our 15 Red team as they share their real experiences transitioning from 8th grade to high school volleyball—what changed, what challenged them, and what helped them grow. We also break down key serve receive strategies and mental tips to give you that extra edge when it matters most. It’s a longer episode—but packed with value, perspective, and real conversation. Buckle up.

Long break but we are back! Sorry ahead of time for the audio. New mics and we had some technical difficulties. We have #Shoutouts, Future Predicting, and Favorite Quotes! Join us for a packed episode!

Energy shapes everything. Communication changes outcomes. This podcast breaks down the difference between Energy Givers and Energy Takers — and how teams, families, and athletes can build stronger cultures through the three key communication channels: Coach/Parents, Coach/Players, and Players/Players.

Welcome back everyone to Season 3 of the I AM Volleyball Podcast! We are excited to be back on the mic for another year of volleyball talk, stories from the court, and everything in between. We’re kicking off this season with a big one — we’re talking all about the summer tryout madness and what we learned heading into the year. We’ll take a look at the incredible high school state championship run — the highs, the challenges, and the moments that made it unforgettable. And since so many of you are jumping into the new season right now, we’re breaking down how to dominate that first week of practice — setting the tone, building culture, and creating momentum from day one. It’s a brand new season, and we’re ready to serve up some great conversations. Let’s get into it — Season 3 starts now!”

What’s up, everyone — and yes, we’re coming in hot off a championship win at Waupaca Boatride , taking home the title in the BBB Coed Division ! 🏆 In this episode, we’re recapping all the action from the largest grass volleyball tournament in the world — the matches, the madness, and what makes Waupaca such a legendary event. Then we dive into something every player and parent needs to hear: tryouts for the 2026 season . We’re breaking down how to prepare, what coaches are really looking for, and how to stand out in the crowd. Let’s go!

In this episode, we’re talking off-season training — what options are best for the training you need. We’re also making a strong case for bringing back the middle attack as a primary option . Why it’s underused, how it can change the game, and what teams can do to run it more effectively. As always, we’ve got our player shoutout and Poddy Training is BACK!

In this episode, we’re digging into one of the most important — and sometimes most stressful — parts of the game: serve receive . We’ll share tips, strategies, and why mastering serve receive can completely change your team’s performance. We also chat about the excitement building for Nationals — what it means for the kids, how to prepare, and why it’s such a special experience. Of course, we’ll have our player shoutout and wrap it all up with some fun mystery questions for each other. Let’s get started!

Welcome!In this episode, we’re diving into two big questions: What do players really love about practice? We asked, and the answers might surprise you! Then we’re tackling a topic on everyone’s mind — why is club volleyball so expensive? We break down where the costs come from and what families are actually paying for. As always, we’ll shine the spotlight with a player shoutout , and wrap things up with our favorite part — some wild and unpredictable Get to Know the Coaches segment. Let’s get into it!

Welcome back! In this episode, we’re getting into a hot topic: sandbagging in tournaments . What is it, why does it happen, and how does it impact the competition? We’re also breaking down the technique debate: open hand vs closed hand one-handed digging — when to use each, what the rules say, and how to train it effectively. As always, we’ll hit you with shoutouts and a new segment about the secret lives of coaches.

In this episode, we dive into the power of B.E.T.—Believe, Encourage, and Trust —and how those values can shape stronger teams on and off the court. We also break down results from our club survey and talk about what every player should know when it comes to reffing responsibilities . And don’t miss the surprise mystery questions submitted by our very own studio audience!

In this episode, we tackle a big question: When is it actually okay to make mistakes during a game? We also switch things up with a fun chat about game day hairstyles—because looking good plays a role too! Plus, don’t miss our Poddy Training segment featuring two special guests sharing their own stories, laughs, and lessons from the court.

In this episode, we dive into how the energy of the crowd—whether electric or dead quiet—can players and coaches hear it? We also break down the thought process behind creating a starting lineup and balancing team dynamics. Plus, we give multiple player shoutouts and end with some fun mystery questions you won't want to miss!

Welcome back to another episode, where we serve up real talk on volleyball, from sidelines to center court. This week, we’re diving into club surveys — what the feedback says, what it means, and how we can all grow from it. Plus, we’ve got new guests joining us for our Poddy Training segment — junior athletes stepping up to share their voices on the game and beyond. You won’t want to miss what they have to say! And of course, we have our fan-favorite player shoutout and keep things fun with some mystery questions for each other.

In this episode, we’re breaking down what makes a successful season for parents, coaches, and players. We’ll cover the keys to solid Perimeter, Rotational, and Middle Up defense , so whether you’re new to the game or a seasoned vet, there’s something here for you. We’re also excited to kick off a brand new segment: Poddy Training — where junior athletes take the mic to share their thoughts. This week, they’re tackling the topic of Parent Do’s and Don’ts — trust us, you’ll want to hear what they have to say! As always, we have our player shoutout and dive into some fun with our classic mystery questions for each other.

Welcome back to the show! In this episode, we’re diving into everything that happens between the whistles—from smart strategies and hype celebrations to the right way to talk to refs. We’ve got a special player shoutout, reveal the results of our weekly club survey, and of course, we’re hitting each other with some mystery questions you won’t want to miss.

In Episode 3, we break down the best techniques for diving and keeping the ball alive, give some well-deserved player shoutouts, and share our favorite drills and games to level up your practices. And, of course, we’ve got another round of mystery questions—let’s get into it!

In Episode 2, we dive into the rising trend of clipping at tournaments—what’s the hype all about? Plus, we tackle the big question: Can anyone be a coach? We also give a special shoutout to our 2025 Legacy Players and, of course, keep the fun going with our mystery questions!

We’re back for Season 2—now with video! In this episode, we give a special team shoutout, break down overnight tournament rules, and dive into setting and setter IQ. Plus, we each have a mystery question that you won’t want to miss!

Join us on this special episode dedicated to high school volleyball. We talk about high school tryouts, club vs high school differences, senior year and freshman playing on varsity! Good luck in your tryouts!