Podcast
Above 180.com Bowling Podcast
Hosted by Tim Burg · EN
The Above 180 Podcast is a bowling podcast designed to help you improve your bowling game. Tim Burg covers a wide variety of topics, including coaching tips, finding the proper pro shop, equipment layouts, and all the latest ball reviews.
24episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
The Storm Collegiate Spotlight Podcast: Del Warren Looks Back on Building Webber Bowling
Apr 2300:31:58Tap to summarizeDel Warren, longtime Head Men’s Bowling Coach and Director of Bowling at Webber International University, joins the podcast to reflect on building the program since its start in 2008–09 and why now was the right time to step down. Del also discusses the growth of Webber bowling, what could be next for him, and shares some of his favorite memories from coaching.
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Matt Mcniel Breaks Down the 2026 USBC Open Championships Patterns
Apr 1400:25:24Tap to summarizeI catch up with five-time USBC Eagle winner Matt Mcniel to talk about his trip to Reno for the USBC Open Championships. Matt breaks down this year’s team pattern, why he believes it’s very similar to last year’s, and what bowlers should expect when they hit the lanes. Matt and Storm Products 1 Team put together a strong performance, posting a 3151 team score, while Matt himself rolled an impressive 1961 across all nine games. We also dive into the doubles and singles patterns, with Matt sharing key insights for bowlers heading to Reno this year—including why using too much surface might not be the best approach for most players.
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Lane Play Secrets from a Team That Just Left the USBC Open Championships
Apr 200:26:05Tap to summarizeJoining me on the podcast today is Chris VanAkkeren. Chris and his Nicholas J's Pro Shop team rolled an impressive 3250 team series at the USBC Open Championships in Reno. Chris breaks down the team’s game plan and preparation heading into the tournament, what they saw once they got on the lanes in Reno, and how they adjusted as the event unfolded. He also explains one key factor he believes many bowlers are overlooking this year, and dives into the major differences between this year’s pattern and last year’s conditions. Chris also shares what equipment he had in his bag, why those choices mattered, and what—if anything—he would do differently if he had the chance to bowl the tournament again.
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The Long Road to the Green Jacket: Patrick Dombrowski’s U.S. Open Story
Mar 1000:15:00Tap to summarizePatrick Dombrowski joins the show after capturing the 2026 Go Bowling! U.S. Open, earning his first career PBA Tour title and major championship in dramatic fashion. Dombrowski defeated Anthony Simonsen 197–195 to claim the coveted green jacket and $100,000 first prize. In this conversation, Patrick walks us through the journey that led to this breakthrough moment, including the years spent grinding on the PBA Tour and building success on the regional level before finally breaking through on bowling’s biggest stage. We discuss: Patrick’s career journey and how he got to the professional level The mindset and adjustments that clicked during U.S. Open week What it’s like competing through 56 grueling games at one of bowling’s toughest majors How the PBA Tour has changed from when he first started competing to today His observations about the evolution of the sport, competition level, and tour environment What it means to finally win a major after years of perseverance It’s a great conversation about persistence, experience, and the grind of professional bowling, and why sometimes the biggest victories come after the longest journeys.
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PBA Betting Strategy for 2026: Finding Value in Matchups & Futures
Feb 1900:29:37Tap to summarizeOn this episode, I’m joined by former collegiate All-American bowler Mike Hardesty to break down the 2026 PBA season from a gambling perspective. We dive into the types of bowling bets available, the players we’re watching closely this year, and how bettors can approach PBA matchups with a smarter strategy. We also discuss whether common matchup lines like -118 can be beaten long term, the traps to avoid when betting on professional bowling, and the best timing for placing wagers throughout the season. Mike and I share some of our own insights into bowling betting strategy while stressing the importance of responsible gambling—only betting what you can afford and staying disciplined throughout the season. If you’re interested in PBA betting, matchup strategy, and finding value during the 2026 season, this is a must-listen episode.
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Bowling Tips for 2026: Mental Game, Proper Fit & Reading Oil Patterns | Tyrel Rose
Feb 1100:27:27Tap to summarizeThis week I catch up with Bowling This Month contributor and Team Canada Head Coach Tyrel Rose to break down how bowlers can improve their game in 2026. Rose shares why the mental game remains the true foundation of success on the lanes and explains how developing stronger focus, confidence, and consistency can immediately elevate performance. We also discuss why bowlers shouldn’t overlook proper fit and the ideal time to have their equipment evaluated to maximize comfort and scoring potential. Rose dives into the balance between understanding bowling ball technical specs and learning to read different oil patterns—offering practical advice for league bowlers and competitive players alike. Whether you’re a casual league bowler or serious competitor, this episode is packed with actionable bowling tips to help you sharpen your skills and raise your average in 2026. A must-listen for anyone serious about improving their bowling game.
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The Truth About Urethane, Brand Loyalty, and Ball Reaction – with Vernon Peterson
Nov 1700:30:47Tap to summarizeOn this episode, I sit down with pro shop operator, Silver-Certified Coach and ball reviewer for the Bowlers Journal International Vernon Peterson to discuss the latest trends shaping today’s bowling equipment market. Vernon shares insights on why brand loyalty still runs deep among many bowlers, what the new urethane rule really means for the average player, and how to achieve a similar reaction using shorter pin layouts. We also dive into the ongoing debate of thumb slugs vs. interchangeable thumbs—who benefits most from each setup, and how to decide what’s right for your game. Whether you’re a league bowler or chasing tour-level precision, this episode delivers pro shop wisdom you can use on the lanes.
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Recruiting, Routines & Rivalries: Coach Brooke Green Talks Clarke Bowling
Oct 1300:21:45Tap to summarizeOn this episode, we sit down with Brooke Green, head bowling coach at Clarke University. Coach Green shares what her team has been focusing on after the first two events of the season and outlines her expectations moving forward. She also discusses her approach to recruiting, what she looks for in future bowlers, and gives us a glimpse into what a typical practice looks like for her teams.
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Sharpening Your Game: Craig Spencer Talks Bowling and StrikeTutor
Sep 1000:21:28Tap to summarizeOn this episode, I sit down with Craig Spencer — owner of Virtue Bowling Supply and a USBC Silver Certified Coach. We dive into what bowlers should keep in mind as they return to league and tournament play after a summer break. Craig also shares the vision behind StrikeTutor, where he serves as Chief Product Officer, and explains how both bowlers can use it to to sharpen their game.
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Marc McDowell’s Third Eagle: Winning Big in His 60s
Aug 1200:33:00Tap to summarizeMarc McDowell is back on top — and he’s doing it in his 60s. In this episode, we dive into how he claimed his third Eagle at the 2025 USBC Open Championships and why this victory feels extra special. Marc opens up about his mindset heading into doubles and singles after a tough final team game, and how he’s maintained elite performance over decades of competition. He shares the training, preparation, and mental approach that keep him competitive against the best in the game — and what older bowlers can do to stay sharp. We wrap up with his unfiltered take on the team pattern and the grueling lane conditions in Baton Rouge that tested even the most seasoned pros.
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