Shows
Run Your Story PodcastSkye Guy - "Contentment. Gratitude. And God-Given Endurance"Like the episode? Let us know with a quick text!In this engaging podcast episode, Allison speaks with Skye, a dedicated runner from Tuscaloosa, about her inspirational running journey.Skye shares how she discovered her passion for running in middle school, earning the fastest mile time and surprising her parents with a physical fitness award.Despite giving up running for a period, Skye rediscovered her love for it in adulthood, transitioning from walking 5Ks to running regularly.She discusses her involvement with the local running store, Wagner's Run/Walk, and highlights...2025-04-0933 min
Our Kids Play HockeyGIVEAWAY - 20x44 Pickleball Is Rooted In HockeyWe're Giving Away 5 20x44 Pickleball Paddles and Hockey Wraparounds!In this episode of the Wraparound Roundtable, host Lee MJ Elias welcomes Brandon Contratto, a pro pickleball player and semi-pro hockey player, to discuss the intersection of these two sports. Brandon shares his journey into pickleball, highlighting its rapid growth and the founding of 20x44 Pickleball, a venture aimed at supporting the community with affordable, high-quality equipment and coaching. The conversation dives into the similarities between hockey and pickleball, emphasizing the physical and mental skills that transition between the sports. ...2025-01-0811 min
Run Your Story PodcastAmber Fillingim - "Say less. Give good."Like the episode? Let us know with a quick text!In the kickoff episode of Runner Story's third season, host Alison Gilliard celebrates the podcast's two-year anniversary with a special guest, Amber Fillingim.A phenomenal runner and veteran, Amber shares her journey from hating running in the military to embracing it as a vital part of her life.The episode underscores the importance of small acts to support veterans and military families and highlights events like the upcoming Ruck the Bay.Amber's personal anecdotes, from directing races to memorializing fallen comrades...2024-11-061h 15
20x44 Life: A Pickleball Podcast"We Don't Sell Pickles" with Alex Wadsworth aka "The Pickleman"In this episode of "20 x 44 Life," Brandon chats with Alex Wadsworth, a passionate pickleball enthusiast who shares his unique journey into the sport. Alex recounts how a local celebrity at the YMCA introduced him to pickleball, leading to his deep involvement in the community. He discusses building a pickleball court in his front yard, hosting tournaments, and offering free introductory lessons to newcomers. The conversation also dives into the upcoming Florida Pickleball Expo, highlighting its innovative approach with fashion shows, speed dating, and a focus on community engagement rather than tournaments.Visit https://ww...2024-10-0832 min
On The Spot SportsBrandon Contratto | Blue Ridge Bobcats (Ep. 337)WE APPRECIATE EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YOU! If you wouldn't mind please go leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! Thanks!!
Welcome back to Episode 337 of On the Spot Sports and in today's episode we have a very special guest, current professional hockey player, Brandon Contratto! Brandon and I talk about this season with the Elmira River Sharks and the Blue Ridge Bobcats in the FPHL and the Waterford Sharks in the MIHL. We also talk about lessons learned through his 12 years of professional hockey, his favorite memories of his hockey career, what...2024-08-2548 min
20x44 Life: A Pickleball Podcast20x44 Dinks - New Paddles Coming To 20x44 Life!In this quick yet exciting episode of 20x44 Life, we unveil the latest innovations and upcoming releases in our paddle lineup. From new paddle designs to unique colorways and additional accessories, there’s plenty to look forward to. Stay tuned as we dive into the details of our two new paddles: the 20x44 SH and the 20x44 EL Power.20x44 SH (Short Handle):•Introduction of the short handle version of the EL paddle.•Description of the SH paddle’s features: same face as the EL, 5.25-inch handle, different weight distribution.•Ideal...2024-07-2304 min
20x44 Life: A Pickleball PodcastTanner Wallace's Journey To Pickleball ProIn this episode of the 20x44 Life pickleball podcast, we welcome special guest Tanner Wallace. Tanner shares his unique journey into the world of pickleball, from his initial skepticism to becoming an emerging pro. Learn about Tanner’s background, the challenges of balancing a full-time job with professional aspirations, and his insights on the future of pickleball.Tanner Wallace has been a part of the pickleball community for years and has played in numerous APP and PPA tournaments. With a background in soccer from the University of Michigan-Dearborn, Tanner’s agility and footwork have significantly contributed to his...2024-07-2049 min
20x44 Life: A Pickleball Podcast20x44 Dinks - The Joola Gen 3 ControversyOn this episode of the 20x44 Dink Podcast we're diving into a hot-button issue that has once again stirred the pickleball community: paddle drama. This time, the spotlight is on the Joola Gen 3 paddles, a popular choice among both amateur and professional players.Key Topics Discussed:Introduction to Paddle DramaOverview of the recurring paddle controversies in pickleball.Introduction to the Joola Gen 3 paddles and their popularity.The Rise of Joola Gen 3 PaddlesThe quick adoption of these paddles by players of all levels.Discussion on why...2024-05-3005 min
20x44 Life: A Pickleball PodcastThe Journey from Racquetball to Pickleball with 20x44 Sr. Pro Jim BronsonIn this episode of 20x44 Life, we welcome Jim Bronson, a seasoned player who transitioned from racquetball to pickleball. Jim shares his journey, challenges, and the growth of the pickleball community in Toledo. Tune in for insights on the National Pickleball League (NPL), tips for new players, and the evolution of pickleball tournaments.Highlights:Introduction to Jim Bronson and his background in racquetball.Transition to pickleball and the differences between the two sports.Growth of the pickleball community in Toledo, Ohio.Jim's journey through the NPL Combine and team draft.Insights into the team...2024-05-1842 min
20x44 Life: A Pickleball Podcast20x44 Dinks - Introducing UTR-P, the APP's Fresh Rating SystemIn this week's 20x44 Dink we explore a new chapter in pickleball rating systems, the UTR-P. This was recently announced by the Association of Pickleball Players (APP) and in this episode Brandon contrasts it with the DUPR system, and highlights how these developments could shape the future of pickleball.Read more about the UTR-P on our blog: https://www.20x44.net/post/revolutionizing-pickleball-understanding-utr-p-the-new-universal-rating-systemConnect with Us: Subscribe to 20x44 Life: A Pickleball Podcast on your favorite podcast platform Follow us on Instagram and Twitter @20x44Life for the latest pickleball news and...2024-05-0403 min
20x44 Life: A Pickleball Podcast20x44 Dinks - The Rise of DUPR as the Official Rating SystemIn this 20x44 Dink, we dive deep into the latest shifts in the pickleball landscape, focusing on the significant merger between the Major League Pickleball (MLP) and Professional Pickleball Association (PPA), and the establishment of DUPR as the new official rating system for both organizations. Whether you're a seasoned tournament player or just hitting the courts recreationally, understanding the impact of these changes is key.Download the DUPR app now and get your DUPR. Read more about DUPR on our blog: https://www.20x44.net/post/embracing-the-game-how-dupr-is-changing-pickleball-ratingsConnect with Us:...2024-05-0403 min
20x44 Life: A Pickleball PodcastThe Growth of University of Michigan Pickleball with Team President Suzanne ChuparkoffWelcome back to another episode of 20x44 Life, the podcast that brings the pickleball community together, one episode at a time. In this installment, we're thrilled to have Suzanne Chuparkoff, the President of the Michigan Pickleball Club at the University of Michigan, to discuss the growing world of college pickleball.Highlights from this episode:Suzanne shares her personal journey into pickleball, from a family trip to Florida to watch the U.S. Open, to becoming deeply involved with the Michigan Pickleball team.Discover the evolution of the...2024-03-2641 min
20x44 Life: A Pickleball PodcastMaking Pickleball Louder - Simon Lovell's Pickleball StoryOn this week's episode of 20x44 Life, we sit down with Simon Lovell - a professional coach, author, the creator of Picklepreneurs, and, a passionate pickleball player. Simon's story is one of resilience, transformation, and rediscovery through the lens of pickleball.Key Highlights:Simon's Journey: Delve into the gripping tale of Simon's battle with COVID-19 and Guillain-Barre syndrome, leading to severe physical and mental challenges. Discover how pickleball became the catalyst for his incredible recovery and personal growth.The Sound of Opportunity: Learn how the distinctive sound of pickleball served...2024-03-1441 min
20x44 Life: A Pickleball PodcastFrom Ice Rinks to Pickleball Courts: Building Community and Innovation with 20x44 Co-Founder Lee EliasWelcome to another exciting episode of The 20x44 Life Podcast, your dedicated source for all things pickleball. In this episode we take you on a journey through the ins and outs of pickleball, from the sport's addictive nature to the origins of our brand, 20x44. Join our host, Brandon, as he converses with Lee MJ Elias, co-owner of 20x44 and a veteran in the sports industry, on his transition from hockey to pickleball, and the vision behind our brand.Episode Highlights:Welcoming Lee Elias to the Pickleball World: Discover Lee's extensive background...2024-03-0743 min
20x44 Life: A Pickleball Podcast20x44 Dinks - Serving Up Changes: The Latest Pickleball Serve Rules ExplainedWelcome to the first episode of the "20x44 Life Dink Podcast" with your host, Brandon Contratto. In our short and sweet format, perfect for your time dinking around the court, we dive into the hot button topics that have been stirring the pickleball world.In This Episode:Rule Changes in the PPA: We kick off by discussing the significant rule changes observed in the last two tournaments, focusing on the controversial serve changes at the pro level. These changes have sparked a wide range of reactions from players and fans alike, especially...2024-02-2104 min
20x44 Life: A Pickleball PodcastIntroducing 20x44 Life: A Pickleball Podcast With Brandon ContrattoWelcome to the inaugural episode of "20x44 Life," a podcast where the worlds of pickleball and personal growth collide. Hosted by Brandon Contratto, a pro pickleball player with an unconventional journey from the ice rinks of professional hockey to the pickleball courts, this podcast aims to serve as the ultimate gathering spot for pickleball players everywhere.In this episode, Brandon shares his unique story, shedding light on his transition from hockey to pickleball and the lessons learned along the way. With a keen focus on community building, "20x44 Life" is more than just a podcast; it's a...2024-02-2005 min
Run Your Story PodcastLance Johnson -"What else can we achieve when we lift each other up?"Like the episode? Let us know with a quick text!Lance Johnson, a happy and family-oriented runner, shares his experiences and lessons from running. He talks about starting running 10 years ago and falling in love with the sport. Lance discusses the mental challenges of endurance races and the importance of humility and supporting others in the running community. He also mentions his favorite local race, the Reindeer Run, where he enjoys being a goofball and helping his friends.When asked for advice for new runners, Lance emphasizes the significance of good shoes and socks and...2023-07-121h 06