Podcast
Pickleballers Next Door
Hosted by Mike Paze and Christana Elliott · EN
Welcome to the Pickleballers Next Door podcast. Mike & Christana will be traveling around the country recording episodes at pickleball courts inside and outside, talking to the everyday pickleball player. Find out what they love about pickleball and build a big pickleball community.
28episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Episode 70 Michael Zervas - Inside the Newest Pickleball Destination, Fort Collins
1w ago00:40:52Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailJoin Pickleballers Next Door as we talk with Michael Zervas, one of the owners of zero zero Two, the newest pickleball facility in Ft, Collins, Colorado. How Michael and Neil Bellefeuille both serial entrepreneurs had the vision behind zero zero two, and how the massive new 36,000-square-foot pickleball facility is changing the game in Fort Collins, Colorado.Located in southeast Fort Collins near Harmony and Timberline, zero zero two features 11 indoor courts, 6 outdoor courts, a full pro shop, food and beverage options, tournament play, and a player-first experience designed from the ground up. Michael shares how they traveled across the country visiting pickleball clubs, listening to players, and studying what people loved, and what they felt was missing to create a next-generation pickleball club unlike any other.We also dive into the club’s unique design features, including the beautiful vine walls that help with sound reduction while creating an elevated atmosphere and community feel throughout the facility.Plus, we spotlight the upcoming PPA Challenger Series coming to zero zero two on May 29th, 30th, and 31st. Learn how the Challenger Series connects players to the rapidly growing Professional Pickleball Association (PPA), pathway and why this event is a huge opportunity for competitive pickleball in Colorado and beyond.If you’re passionate about pickleball growth, club innovation, tournaments, entrepreneurship, or the future of the sport, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.https://www.zerozerotwo.pro/https://ppatour.com/tournament/2026/2026-fort-collins-co/The Fracas in Fort Collins: May 29th to 31st, 2026The Professional Pickleball Association is proud to bring the inaugural season of the PPA Tour Challenger Series Powered by JOOLA to Fort Collins, Colorado for The Fracas in Fort Collins. The tournament will be held at the Zero Zero Two pickleball facility in Fort Collins, CO, and will provide a showcase of the very best players in the region competing for prize and the chance to win a PPA contract. Come join us to watch professional pickleball in action right here in Fort Collins.Support the showThank you to our sponsor A Sweet Sip CBD drink. Visit https://drinkasweetsip.com/ for more information. Follow the PickleBallers Next Door at: IG: @pickleballersnextdoorTikTok: thepickleballersnextdoor
Transcribe →Episode 69 🎙️ Pickleballers Next Door - Adaptive Pickleball Fundraiser at Thornton Picklr + Colorado Pickleball Community Updates
2w ago00:38:57Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn Episode 69 of Pickleballers Next Door, Mike and Christana bring you another fun and community-driven episode focused on the incredible people helping grow pickleball across Colorado! 🏓This week, we welcome special guest Dawn Cerrone from Rocky Mtn Pikl to talk about the exciting fundraising event that happened at The Picklr Thornton benefiting Kids Adaptive Pickleball Play. Dawn shares how the pickleball community is coming together to support adaptive athletes, create more opportunities for kids, and make the sport more inclusive for everyone.Mike and Christana also briefly touch on the excitement surrounding ZeroZeroTwo.Pro, the new pickleball club in Fort Collins, and preview an upcoming full episode where they’ll sit down with the team behind the club for a deeper conversation. They also talk about the Denver Iconics draft, and how more details are to come. This episode is all about community, inclusion, giving back, and the continued growth of pickleball throughout Colorado.🎧 In this episode:Adaptive pickleball initiativesKids Adaptive Pickleball Play fundraiserThornton Picklr community eventRocky Mtn Pikl updatesColorado pickleball newsBrief preview of ZeroZeroTwo.Pro in Fort CollinsGrowing pickleball through community and inclusionIf you love hearing positive stories from the pickleball world and want to stay connected to what’s happening in Colorado pickleball, this episode is for you!https://www.rockymountainpikl.com/https://www.zerozerotwo.pro/https://www.denvericonics.com/https://pickleballersnextdoor.com/Support the showThank you to our sponsor A Sweet Sip CBD drink. Visit https://drinkasweetsip.com/ for more information. Follow the PickleBallers Next Door at: IG: @pickleballersnextdoorTikTok: thepickleballersnextdoorSupport the showThank you to our sponsor A Sweet Sip CBD drink. Visit https://drinkasweetsip.com/ for more information. Follow the PickleBallers Next Door at: IG: @pickleballersnextdoorTikTok: thepickleballersnextdoor
Transcribe →Episode 68 Pickleball is More than a Game - It's a Gamechanger Pickleball for Good Fund Visits East and South Africa
3w ago00:47:13Tap to summarizeSend us Fan Mail“From local courts to global impact—this is how pickleball is changing lives across continents.”🎙️Pickleball is no longer just America’s fastest-growing sport—it’s becoming a global movement for connection, community, and impact.In this inspiring follow-up episode of Pickleballers Next Door, we sit down to chat about lessons learned during Susan Swern's 3-week pickleball envoy mission to Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, and South Africa in February 2026.Working alongside leaders like Ruth Rosenquist (Global Pickleball Federation), Collins Munene (Confederation of African Pickleball), GPF member country federation teams, and Memel.Global, Pickleball for Good Fund is part of a powerful movement bringing the benefits of the sport to under-championed communities across the globe.By delivering equipment, sharing knowledge, visiting government officials and school administrators - and witnessing the joy of students and adults - this trip was definitely her pickleball adventure of a lifetime. Through organizations like Pickleball for Good and Operation Paddle Lift, Susan delivers equipment, creates access, and builds lasting opportunities for people who may have never had exposure to the sport.🌍 In this episode, we cover:How pickleball is rapidly expanding internationallyWhat it takes to introduce the sport in developing regionsThe impact of bringing paddles, nets, and knowledgeWhy pickleball is uniquely positioned to build community worldwideThe people behind the movement making it all happenThis is more than a sport—it’s a mission.If you’ve ever wondered how pickleball can make a difference beyond the court, this episode will open your eyes to the global power of play.https://pickleballforgood.org/https://globalpickleballfederation.org/operation-paddlelift/https://pickleballersnextdoor.com/https://oncourtnetworking.com/3rd-shot-englewood-page👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and follow Pickleballers Next Door for more behind-the-scenes access to the fastest-growing sport in America!Support the showSupport the showThank you to our sponsor A Sweet Sip CBD drink. Visit https://drinkasweetsip.com/ for more information. Follow the PickleBallers Next Door at: IG: @pickleballersnextdoorTikTok: thepickleballersnextdoor
Transcribe →Episode 67 - Pro Pickleball Pay Explosion, Anna Leigh Waters Dominance & DUPR Reset - Denver Iconics, Denver Pickleball Club & Eye Injury Tal
4w ago00:37:27Tap to summarizeSend us Fan Mail🎙️Mike and Christana are back with a high-energy catch-up episode diving into everything happening in the world of pickleball right now. From the massive rise in pro player payouts to the continued dominance of world #1 Anna Leigh Waters, the sport is evolving faster than ever. You can’t talk pickleball without mentioning Kyle Yates—a seasoned pro who’s been competing at the highest level and helping shape the sport for years They break down what these increasing earnings mean for the future of professional pickleball and how it’s attracting more elite athletes to the game.Locally, they preview upcoming tournaments and buzz surrounding the Denver Iconics and upcoming tournaments ran by Denver Pickleball Club, Deven Gould, highlighting why Colorado continues to be a hotspot for the sport.The episode also touches on an important (and often overlooked) topic: eye injuries in pickleball, especially among older players. Why is this happening, and what should players be doing to protect themselves?Plus, they dive into the controversial DUPR reset-what it is, why there’s a limited window to act, and how it could impact your rating moving forward.Whether you’re a casual player or deep into the competitive scene, this episode keeps you informed, entertained, and ahead of the curve in the ever-changing world of pickleball.👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and follow Pickleballers Next Door for more behind-the-scenes access to the fastest-growing sport in America!www.asweetsip.comwww.denvericonics.comwww.holeyperformance.comSupport the showThank you to our sponsor A Sweet Sip CBD drink. Visit https://drinkasweetsip.com/ for more information. Follow the PickleBallers Next Door at: IG: @pickleballersnextdoorTikTok: thepickleballersnextdoor
Transcribe →Episode 66 - Pickleball is Changing! New 2026 Rules You Need to Know NOW 🎾🔥
Apr 1600:39:49Tap to summarizeSend us Fan Mail🎙️Pickleball is evolving fast—and the 2026 rule changes are already impacting how the game is played at every level.In Episode 66 of Pickleballers Next Door, Mike and Christana break down some of the latest pickleball rules for 2026 and what they mean for everyday players, competitive matches, and the future of the sport.From gameplay adjustments to how rules are shaping strategy, we dive into real conversations happening on the courts right now. Whether you're a beginner trying to keep up or a seasoned player looking for an edge, this episode gives you the insights you need to stay ahead.We also talk about how pickleball continues to grow, evolve, and create new opportunities both on and off the court.🎾 Are these new rules making the game better—or more complicated? Let us know what you think!👉 Don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share with your pickleball crew!pickleballersnextdoor.comoncourtnetworking.comSupport the showThank you to our sponsor A Sweet Sip CBD drink. Visit https://drinkasweetsip.com/ for more information. Follow the PickleBallers Next Door at: IG: @pickleballersnextdoorTikTok: thepickleballersnextdoor
Transcribe →Epicsode 65 - Denver Iconics Owner Jen Hamman + Patty Gallegos 60+ Masters - Inside Pro Pickleball & Champion Series Pickleball
Apr 900:46:02Tap to summarizeSend us Fan Mail🎙️In this exciting episode of Pickleballers Next Door, we sit down with Jen Hamman, owner of the Denver Iconics, and Patti Gallegos, a standout competitor heading into the 60+ Masters division in the Champions Series Pickleball league.We dive deep into the world of professional pickleball, team ownership, and what it takes to compete at a high level—no matter your age. Jen shares behind-the-scenes insight into building the Denver Iconics franchise, team strategy, and the explosive growth of the sport. Patti brings an inspiring perspective on competing in the 60+ Masters division, proving that pickleball truly is a sport for life.🔥 Topics we cover:The rise of the Denver Iconics in pro pickleballWhat it takes to own and manage a professional pickleball teamChampions Series Pickleball & the 40+, 50+, and 60+ Masters divisionTraining, mindset, and longevity in competitive playThe future of pickleball and opportunities for players of all agesWhether you’re a beginner, competitive player, or pickleball fan, this episode brings real stories, expert insight, and inspiration from the court to your life.👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and follow Pickleballers Next Door for more behind-the-scenes access to the fastest-growing sport in America!Support the showThank you to our sponsor A Sweet Sip CBD drink. Visit https://drinkasweetsip.com/ for more information. Follow the PickleBallers Next Door at: IG: @pickleballersnextdoorTikTok: thepickleballersnextdoor
Transcribe →Episode 64 How Ace Pickleball Is Redefining Open Play & Player Experience in Enola Pennsylvania - Bob Miller Interview
Apr 200:34:17Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailStep inside one of Pennsylvania’s most exciting indoor pickleball facilities as we talk with Bob Miller, franchise owner of Ace Pickleball Club in Enola, PA!In this episode of Pickleballers Next Door, Mike and Christana explore how Ace Pickleball Enola is creating a next-level player experience with a unique open play format designed for all skill levels. Whether you're brand new to pickleball or a seasoned competitor, this club has dedicated courts tailored to your level—making it easy, fun, and competitive for everyone.We also dive into the details that set this facility apart, including their on-court service cart that brings water and essentials directly to players, creating a country-club-style experience right on the court. Plus, if you're still searching for the perfect paddle, Ace offers a try-before-you-buy paddle program, allowing players to test different paddles before making a purchase.If you’re curious about the future of pickleball clubs, looking for ways to improve player engagement, or want inspiration for building a thriving pickleball community—this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.👉 Whether you're a casual player, club owner, or pickleball enthusiast, this is a must-listen!Support the showThank you to our sponsor A Sweet Sip CBD drink. Visit https://drinkasweetsip.com/ for more information. Follow the PickleBallers Next Door at: IG: @pickleballersnextdoorTikTok: thepickleballersnextdoor
Transcribe →Episode 63 Why Play Pickleball? Fun, Fitness, Community & Mental Health Benefits | Pickleballers Next Door
Mar 2600:33:54Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailWhy Play Pickleball!We catch up with Mike after he comes back from Hawaii!Why is pickleball the fastest-growing sport in America? In this episode of Pickleballers Next Door, Mike and Christana break down exactly why people of all ages are falling in love with pickleball. From the fun, social atmosphere to the powerful health benefits, this sport is more than just a game—it’s a lifestyle.Discover how pickleball helps with weight loss, improves cardiovascular health, boosts mental clarity, and creates strong community connections. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player, this episode dives into why pickleball is the perfect way to stay active, meet new people, and have a blast doing it.If you're looking for a fun workout, stress relief, and a supportive community, pickleball might just be your new favorite obsession.Support the showThank you to our sponsor A Sweet Sip CBD drink. Visit https://drinkasweetsip.com/ for more information. Follow the PickleBallers Next Door at: IG: @pickleballersnextdoorTikTok: thepickleballersnextdoor
Transcribe →Episode 62 Pickleball in Hawaii?! Rain, Resort Courts & How Mike Traded for the Trip 🌺
Mar 1900:45:41Tap to summarizeSend us Fan Mail🌺🏓 Pickleballers Next Door Mike heads to Hawaii… but not how you’d expect.In this episode, Mike shares his recent trip to Hawaii where the islands were hit with unusual, heavy rain—something locals say hasn’t happened like this in years. The weather had a major impact on the pickleball scene, leaving many courts completely empty as Mike explored different locations across the island.But one location stood out—the Hilton Waikoloa Village resort featuring six dedicated pickleball courts and stadium seating for over 400 spectators, showing how big pickleball is becoming even in vacation destinations.Mike also dives into how he made the trip happen using International Monetary Systems (IMS Barter), a powerful barter network that’s been around since 1985. Learn how business owners can leverage barter to travel, save money, and unlock new opportunities.Beyond pickleball, Mike shares the true Hawaiian experience—from celebrating his and Palma's wedding anniversary to lush tropical flowers and scenic views to wild goats, chickens, boars, and the famous coqui frogs that fill the island nights with sound.🎧 Whether you love pickleball, travel, or creative business strategies, this episode brings it all together with real stories, insights, and a behind-the-scenes look at Hawaii like you’ve never heard before.👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and follow Pickleballers Next Door—the voice of the everyday pickleball player.Happy Anniversary to Mike and Palma - 27 years!Imsbarter.comSupport the showThank you to our sponsor A Sweet Sip CBD drink. Visit https://drinkasweetsip.com/ for more information. Follow the PickleBallers Next Door at: IG: @pickleballersnextdoorTikTok: thepickleballersnextdoor
Transcribe →Episode 61 -Pickleball, Business & Networking on the Court | On Court Networking + PickleWatch Founder George Yameen
Mar 1200:31:28Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailPickleball isn’t just a sport anymore — it’s becoming a powerful way to connect, collaborate, and build business relationships.In Episode 61 of Pickleballers Next Door, hosts Mike and Christana dive into the growing intersection of pickleball, entrepreneurship, and networking. They share their vision for a new concept called On Court Networking, a community-driven idea that brings professionals together through the energy and fun of pickleball. Instead of traditional networking events, imagine building real relationships on the court while playing the fastest-growing sport in America.The conversation explores how pickleball is creating opportunities for business owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals to meet, collaborate, and grow their networks in a more authentic and engaging environment.Later in the episode, we welcome George Yameen, the founder of PickleWatch.co, who joins the show to talk about the inspiration behind the platform and how technology is helping pickleball players stay connected with the sport they love. George shares insights into the growth of pickleball, the role of innovation in the sport, and how tools like PickleWatch are helping players and communities stay informed and engaged.This episode is packed with conversations about pickleball culture, entrepreneurship, innovation, and the future of networking in the pickleball world.Whether you're a recreational player, business owner, or simply someone who loves the pickleball lifestyle, this episode shows how the sport is bringing people together both on and off the court.🏓 Topics Covered:The idea behind On Court NetworkingHow pickleball is changing business networkingEntrepreneurship in the pickleball spaceThe story behind PickleWatch.coBuilding community through sportsThe growing pickleball movementPickleball is more than a game — it’s a community, a lifestyle, and now a powerful networking tool.If you enjoy the show, be sure to subscribe, like, and share to help us continue telling the stories from the courts and the people who make pickleball special.www.picklewatch.comSupport the showThank you to our sponsor A Sweet Sip CBD drink. Visit https://drinkasweetsip.com/ for more information. Follow the PickleBallers Next Door at: IG: @pickleballersnextdoorTikTok: thepickleballersnextdoor
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