
Hosted by Third Shot · EN

What happens when you create an event designed entirely for pickleball players? In this episode of Third Shot Podcast, Uncle Greg and Brigie sit down with John LoGrasso, founder of the Consumer Pickleball Show, to discuss his vision for bringing the sport's biggest consumer-focused event to Las Vegas on June 13-14, 2026. John shares how the idea for the show was born, what attendees can expect, and why he believes pickleball enthusiasts deserve an event built specifically for them. From hands-on product demos and exhibitor experiences to pro player appearances, panel discussions, clinics, and opportunities to play with the pros, the Consumer Pickleball Show aims to be a one-of-a-kind gathering for players of every level.

In this episode of Third Shot Podcast, Uncle Greg and Brigie sit down with Ishmael Nieves, the creative mind behind Pickleball Chronicles, a one-of-a-kind pickleball-themed coloring book. Ishmael shares the inspiration behind bringing the sport to life through art, creating a fun and engaging way for players of all ages to connect with pickleball off the court. Beyond the creativity, Ishmael opens up about his personal journey and how discovering pickleball has played a meaningful role in improving his mental health. From stress relief to finding community, he highlights the powerful impact the sport can have beyond competition.

Third Shot Podcast cohosts, Uncle Greg and Brigie, sit down with Dawna Strouse, founder of Dink Date!, the first AI-powered social and dating app built exclusively for pickleball players. Dawna shares the inspiration behind creating a platform that goes beyond the game—helping players connect for friendship, doubles partnerships, and even romance through their shared love of pickleball. From on-court chemistry to meaningful off-court connections, Dawna explains how the app is designed to bring the pickleball community even closer together.

In this powerful episode of Third Shot Podcast, Uncle Greg and Brigie sit down with pickleball instructor and advocate Roger BelAir, who is bringing the game to an unexpected place — inside prison walls. Roger shares how he began introducing pickleball to incarcerated individuals and the remarkable impact the sport has had within correctional facilities. What started as a simple idea has grown into something much bigger, ultimately leading to the creation of Pickleball for Incarcerated Communities (PICL). The success and impact of the program have even attracted documentary filmmakers, who are currently producing a film titled Pickleball in Prison. Roger also shares a special connection to the history of the sport. After meeting Barney McCallum, one of pickleball’s three founders, he recounts the real story behind how the game got its name. A story you don’t want to miss!

Third Shot Podcast cohosts, Uncle Greg and Brigie, welcome Nikki Maldonado, founder of Pickleball Joy and the creator behind the popular Instagram account @pickleballnikki, for a conversation that’s equal parts inspiring and energizing. Nikki shares her personal pickleball journey and how the sport transformed her life far beyond the baseline. What started as a fun way to stay active quickly became a source of confidence and connection. That experience ultimately led her to create the Pickleball Joy Pledge — a movement designed to put community, kindness, and joy first. It’s a heartfelt reminder that the real win is the joy we bring to the game — and to each other.

In this episode of Third Shot Podcast, cohosts Uncle Greg and Brigie sit down with Jason Dominy, the creator behind the popular Instagram account @pickleballaroundatlanta. Jason has built a platform that spotlights the vibrant pickleball cultures and tight-knit communities across the Atlanta area, showcasing how the sport brings people together on and off the court. He opens up about his personal pickleball journey and shares how the game has played a meaningful role in supporting his mental health, offering an honest and inspiring perspective on why pickleball is more than just a sport. As a sponsored athlete with Premier Racquet Sports, an Ambassador for The Picklr – Cumming, and Swell Pickleballs, Jason embodies what it means to be a positive ambassador for the game.

In this episode of Third Shot Podcast, Uncle Greg and Brigie sit down in Las Vegas with Kaitlin Miller, a 5.0+ pickleball player, podcaster, and Head of Business Development at Court Kings, the official partner and preferred court builder for USA Pickleball AND the company behind the new pro cushion courts at Dill Dinkers in Henderson, Nevada. Kaitlin shares how she went from a multi-sport athlete and Division 1 rower at UCLA, to a sports broadcaster, and eventually into the heart of the pickleball industry. This amazing sport has given her both a new competitive outlet and a thriving career.

Jump into this lively episode of Third Shot Podcast with Uncle Greg and Brigie as they welcome the “other Bridget” from California, creating a double-dose of Bri(d)gies! Dive into their hilarious stories of pickleball mix-ups, nickname confusions, and heartwarming moments as multiple “Brigettes/Bridgets” intersect at the court. Enjoy playful banter as the trio reflects on how pickleball fostered new friendships and offered healthy competition. Plus, get the scoop on plans for an epic singles-mingles night and corporate pickleball events in Las Vegas! Grab your drinks and get ready for this episode of Third Shot!

Join Uncle Greg and Brigie at the Dill Dinkers studio in Las Vegas for a special Third Shot Podcast episode with Andrea Taylor, franchise business consultant and pickleball enthusiast, to dive into her fascinating journey—from her first game in 2012 to coaching, overcoming franchise challenges, and building thriving pickleball communities. Don’t miss this episode or any future episodes—follow us for all the latest and get ready for your third shot!

In this episode of Third Shot Podcast, Uncle Greg and Brigie sit down with Erin and JC, the founders, owners, and creative minds behind Dink & Banter — a premium pickleball-inspired apparel brand that’s designed for players who love the game and the fun that comes with it. Dink & Banter blends performance, comfort, and everyday style into hats, shirts, towels, and gear that embrace both the sport and the playful spirit behind it. Erin and JC share the story of how their passion for pickleball and the culture around it turned into a business that celebrates community, creativity, and the joy of being on (and off) the court.