Shows
HTP PodcastInterview with Yev Supeko Yev discusses what it was like starting tennis in Kyrgyzstan and how he started late but still went to a D1 college. Gira and Yev discuss the importance of athletic development, what it's like to transition to SEC competition, and the impact of coaching on personal growth. The conversation points out the value of a supportive sports culture that prioritizes fun and development over pressure and burnout.Takeaways:Team camaraderie in sports can enhance the experience.Starting tennis later can still lead to success at high levels.Athletic development should...
2025-12-1916 min
HTP PodcastInterview with Val AndrusVal discusses the life-changing potential of tennis, focusing on community, building others up, and the importance of a positive team culture in the sport. The discussion highlights the importance of team dynamics, leadership, and the enriching experiences gained through traveling to various tennis tournaments around the world. She shares personal insights on cultural perspectives and the joy of connecting with others through the sport.Takeaways:Started playing tennis at 10 years old.Grew up in a rural area with limited activities.Transitioned from a stay-at-home mom to a tennis advocate.Focused...
2025-12-1219 min
HTP PodcastInterview with Kendra FarrellKendra shares her inspiring journey in tennis, detailing her late start in the sport and the challenges she faced along the way. Gira and Kendra discuss: Is natural talent or grit better?She discusses the importance of hard work, resilience, and the support of her family and coaches in achieving her goals. Kendra also reflects on her experiences in college tennis, the dynamics of team sports, and how her journey has shaped her into a coach who can relate to her players' struggles.Takeaways...
2025-12-0511 min
HTP PodcastInterview with Tanya LawtonTanya shares her extensive journey in tennis, from her early experiences as a player to her transition into coaching and parenting. She discusses the importance of emotional intelligence in sports, particularly in tennis, and highlights the challenges young players face in competitive environments. Tanya emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to coaching that includes mental and emotional preparation, advocating for a shift in how tennis culture addresses these aspects.TakeawaysTanya's journey in tennis began later than most, starting at age 10.She quickly transitioned from player to...
2025-11-2822 min
HTP PodcastInterview with John DaveyIn this episode of the HTP podcast, John Davey, a visionary in the tennis world, shares his journey from a passionate player to the founder of Fast Track Tennis. The conversation explores John's innovative approach to making tennis more accessible and enjoyable for everyone, especially youth. Fast Track Tennis utilizes technology to enhance training and practice, allowing players to strengthen their skills in various environments. The discussion emphasizes the importance of making tennis affordable and engaging for the next generation.TakeawaysJohn's journey in...
2025-11-2111 min
HTP PodcastInterview with Bobby BernsteinIn this conversation, Bobby shares his extensive journey in tennis, from his early days as a player to becoming a world-class coach. He discusses the importance of technique, the evolution of coaching methods, and the significance of mindset and strategy in competitive tennis. Bobby emphasizes the need for coaches to adapt their teaching styles to meet the needs of their players, particularly beginners, and highlights the value of keeping the learning process fun and engaging.TakeawaysBobby learned a lot from his early coaching experiences.Technique is crucial for beginners...
2025-11-1414 min
HTP PodcastInterview with Jared JacobsIn this conversation, Jared shares his journey through tennis, from his early experiences as a player to his transition into coaching. He discusses the challenges faced by WTA players, particularly women, in navigating the competitive landscape of tennis, the importance of community, and the need for balance in life on the tour. The conversation highlights the emotional rollercoaster of competition and the realities of traveling as a tennis professional.TakeawaysTennis can open many opportunities and experiences.The mental and physical challenges of tennis are significant.Community and support are...
2025-10-3125 min
HTP PodcastInterview with Jen WoolCottIn this conversation, we discuss the positive effects of tennis. We explore personal journeys in the sport, the importance of community support, and the role of positivity in competition. Jen shares her experiences as a captain in women's leagues, the challenges of managing team dynamics, and the life lessons learned through tennis. The discussion emphasizes the significance of maintaining a positive attitude, especially in the face of adversity, and how these experiences shape not only players but also their communities.TakeawaysTennis can start from unexpected beginnings.Taking breaks from...
2025-10-2415 min
HTP PodcastInterview with Mackenzy BoyntonIn this conversation, Mackenzy shares her journey in tennis, discussing the importance of confidence, the challenges of balancing sports with personal life, and her experiences in college tennis. She reflects on her decision to transfer schools, the differences between the SEC and ACC, and her thoughts on parenting in relation to sports specialization.TakeawaysConfidence is crucial for success in sports.Transferring colleges can be a pivotal decision for athletes.Burnout is a real concern for student-athletes.The intensity of college rivalries can shape an athlete's experience.Individual sports like tennis require mental toughness...
2025-10-1715 min
HTP PodcastInterview with Dale LightIn this conversation, Dale Light shares their journey from baseball to tennis to holistic tennis coaching, emphasizing the importance of playfulness, joy, and a holistic approach to training. They discuss the transition from being a player to a coach, the significance of being present and adaptable in both tennis and life, and the value of resilience in overcoming challenges. The conversation highlights the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit in achieving resilience in sports and personal growth.TakeawaysHolistic tennis integrates mind, body, and spirit.The journey from player to...
2025-10-1118 min
HTP PodcastInterview with Lee Anne ThorntonIn this conversation, Lee Anne shares her journey from Trinidad to becoming an elite tennis coach for junior tennis players at the Tennis Patron Academy (in Trinidad).She discusses her early experiences in tennis, how her dad prepared her from a young age to travel internationally, and the pressures faced by young athletes. Lee Anne emphasizes the importance of long-term dedication and community in tennis, particularly for young female players. She reflects on her rediscovery of passion for tennis and provides helpful tips to aspiring athletes about the long-term benefits of dedication and...
2025-10-0316 min
HTP PodcastInterview with Ashley Portwood Ashley Portwood shares her journey in tennis, discussing her role at USTA Southwest and the importance of community development in the sport. She emphasizes the positive impact of tennis on individuals and the significance of coaching in shaping players' experiences. The discussion highlights the various opportunities available in tennis, including leagues and community events, and the need for a supportive environment to foster a love for the game.TakeawaysOur mission here is to change the culture of tennis.Tennis started for me at 13, a late start.USTA's reach is broader than...
2025-09-2614 min
HTP PodcastInterview with Linda MascariLinda shares her inspiring journey from being last picked on the playground due to childhood asthma & allergies to discovering the joy of pickleball as an adult. She discusses how the sport has improved her physical & brain health and built a strong community of friends. The conversation emphasizes the importance of trying new things, overcoming challenges, and finding joy in sports, regardless of age or skill level.The conversation emphasizes the need for more inclusive sports like pickleball to encourage physical activity and connection among people.TakeawaysPickleball offers...
2025-09-1918 min
HTP PodcastInterview with Spencer GrayPodcast Description Spencer Gray shares his journey through the world of tennis, detailing his early experiences, the challenges he faced with toxic coaching, and the transformative impact of positive environments. He discusses his transition from junior tennis to college to pro, highlighting the growth he experienced both as a player and as a person. Spencer also reflects on his current role as a hitting partner for top 5 WTA player Jessica Pegula, emphasizing the importance of supportive coaching and teamwork in achieving success.đ Takeaways
2025-09-1232 min
HTP PodcastInterview with Katarina Petrovic In this episode of the HTP podcast, Katarina Petrovic, aka Kaca, discusses her journey from a young tennis player in Serbia to a successful head coach at FIU, winning 3 USA Conference Championships.They explore the cultural shifts in tennis, the importance of education, and the evolving landscape of recruitment in the sport.Kaca shares her personal experiences, coaching philosophy, and the challenges faced in developing a competitive team.The conversation highlights the significance of passion, hard work, and the changing perceptions of college tennis.đ TakeawaysKaca's journey in ten...
2025-09-0518 min
HTP PodcastInterview with Lisa Pugliese-LaCroixLisa shares her inspiring journey from a promising tennis career to founding Love Serving Autism, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping children with autism through tennis. The conversation explores her early experiences in tennis, the challenges she faced transitioning to a career in speech therapy, and the obstacles encountered while building her nonprofit. Lisa emphasizes the importance of inclusivity in sports and the profound impact tennis can have on children with developmental disabilities. She also discusses the significance of maintaining perspective during tough times and the rewarding nature of her work.
2025-08-2919 min
HTP PodcastInterview with Allie PavlanskyIn this inspiring episode, Gira sits down with Allie to explore her tennis journeyâfrom hitting balls with her father in Ohio to playing at the Naval Academy, and eventually transitioning into coaching and mentoring tennis players. Along the way, Allie shares the profound influence of her early coach, Susan Cinciala, and the pivotal role tennis played in shaping her resilience.Today, Allie uses her experience to help players embrace balance by integrating yoga, mindfulness, and academics alongside tennis. Her advice to young athletes is clear: nurture re...
2025-08-2221 min
HTP PodcastInterview with Fernando SamayoaWhen Fernando left Guatemala for Florida at 13, he faced culture shock, a language barrier, and a brand-new world. Tennis became his safe space, taking him from high school to the professional tour, then to getting a full ride to the University of Southern California.Fernando talks about the importance of personalized coaching, how to avoid overwhelming players, and why the mental side of the game is just as important as the physical.In this episode, Fernando shares what it takes to coach junior tennis players in todayâs complex tennis world, why patience and listening ma...
2025-08-1521 min
HTP PodcastInterview with Kyle LaCroixKyle LaCroixâs story is anything but ordinary. In this episode, he shares how he went from a swimmer to a sought-after tennis mentor. We talk about his years at the Oaks, the launch of SETS, and how he's helping coaches around the world level up their careers with a lifetime of support and business savvy. Kyle doesnât hold back as we get into the mindset shifts required in todayâs evolving tennis landscape. From the fear of standing out to the biological comfort of conformity, we explore how coaches can break through their own limitsâand why...
2025-08-0826 min
HTP PodcastInterview with Dominique MortierDominique (aka Dom) joins the HTP Podcast to share a vulnerable and inspiring journeyâfrom her early days in the Bahamas to tennis academies in the U.S. to becoming a psychotherapist. Dom opens up about choosing tennis over other sports at age 12, what it was like moving alone to the U.S. at 14, and how a sport she once hated became the catalyst for her career in mental health.We dive into the highs, the heartbreaks, and how her experience as a young athlete struggling with perfectionism and self-doubt gave her emotional resilience she le...
2025-08-0114 min
HTP PodcastInterview with Greg PrudhommeTennis isnât just about the wins and lossesâitâs about who you become along the way. In this episode, Gira sits down with Greg to unpack how focusing on the process over results helps athletes thrive, both on and off the court. Greg shares how his fatherâs love for tennis laid the groundwork for a lifelong journey of growth and teaching players to prioritize mindset and personal growth over trophies alone.They also explore the evolving tennis industry, the role of mental preparation, and how to lead athletes toward a healthier, more resilien...
2025-07-2517 min
HTP PodcastInterview with Leslie BanksLeslie Banks started tennis at age 3 and never looked back. Now, as the founder of Serve the Future, sheâs using her lifelong love for the game to empower underserved youth through tennis, opening doors many never thought possible.From her early days growing up in a competitive tennis family to coaching at just 15, Leslie shares her journey of grit, resilience, and growth within the tennis world. She dives into the challenges of transitioning from coaching at clubs in Houston to stepping out on her own in Phoenix, where she followed her calling to create a nonprofit de...
2025-07-1816 min
HTP PodcastInterview with Amanda Moore (Fink)Ever wondered what itâs really like chasing the pro tennis dream? In this episode of the HTP Podcast, Gira sits down with Amanda Moore (Fink), former top 300 player, tennis scholarship to the University of Southern California, and passionate coach, to unpack her journey from age 8 with a racquet in hand to the professional circuit.Amanda shares the raw realities of life on tourâfrom the independence and confidence tennis builds to the quiet loneliness between matches. She dives into the importance of setting realistic goals, understanding your travel and support needs, and planning your path...
2025-07-1111 min
HTP PodcastInterview with Nicole FintellIn this episode, Nicole Fintell shares her journey from a 7-year-old tennis camper to 2x Texas state champion, D1 college athlete, high-performance junior coach, college coach, and USTA Southwestâs junior player development manager.We explore the ups and downs of junior tennis, the challenges of isolation, and why itâs essential to focus on long-term development.Tennis is more than a sportâitâs a lifelong teacher.Whether you're a player, coach, or parent, youâll gain practical insights into navigating the challenges and joys of tennis.Key Points:
2025-07-0409 min
HTP PodcastInterview with Kate PaulusIn this episode, Kate Paulus shares her powerful tennis journeyâfrom picking up a racquet in Kansas City to competing at the Division 1 level at TCU. She opens up about the emotional toll of injuries, the mental pressure of elite tennis, and how gratitude and perspective helped her through the toughest moments. Kate also gets candid about hot-button topics like fairness in women's sports and the value of creating safe spaces for all athletes. This conversation is equal parts real, reflective, and inspiring.Key topics:Moving from KC to South Fl...
2025-06-2719 min
HTP PodcastInterview with Rogelio CarabajalCan you teach yourself tennis and actually get good? Rogelio proves itâs possible!In this episode, we talk about DIY tennis, engineering mindset, and using tennis as a way to meet people, grow confidence, and build community.He shares how a little competition (with a teacher!) kept him pushing, how he stayed focused with limited support, and how tennis helped him make friends and stay grounded while studying engineering at Boston University. Whether youâre new to tennis or a longtime player, Rogelioâs story proves that grit, curiosity, and a bit of cre...
2025-06-2011 min
HTP PodcastInterview with Olivia KimIn this inspiring episode, Olivia Kim shares how she went from playing tennis just once a week in 9th grade to earning an academic scholarship to play collegiate tennis at Trinity.After switching schools and homeschooling to pursue the sport full-time, she pushed through self-doubt, gossip, and early setbacks in a competitive tennis community.Olivia opens up about overcoming the pressure, finding confidence, and thriving in a positive college tennis environment.Now a psychology grad set to become a therapist for kids with autism, she reminds us that perseverance and passion can lead...
2025-06-1317 min
HTP PodcastInterview with Trang TranWhat happens when tennis opens doors beyond the court? đžâ¨In this powerful episode of the HTP Podcast, Gira Schofield sits down with Trang, a junior in high school who shares her inspiring journey from Vietnam to the U.S.âand from picking up a racquet to earning a college scholarship. đťđłâĄď¸đşđ¸Trang opens up about:â
How Serve the Future nonprofit changed her lifeâ
Learning tennis later than mostâand thriving anywayâ
Earning a scholarship to Canyon College through hard work and mindsetâ
Her dream of becoming an experimental psychologistâ
Advice for y...
2025-05-3007 min
HTP PodcastWhat I Really Think About Positive Self-Talk!Is positive self-talk enough? In this episode, part 3 of positive self-talk, I get real about the limits of positive self-talk in tennisâand why it wonât work in certain pressured situations unless you actually believe it.Iâll break down the truth about mental toughness, subconscious patterns, and why meditation and journaling are the real training grounds for your mind. đžđ§ Youâll hear:Why âjust be positiveâ is bad advice during pressure momentsWhat Novak Djokovic can teach us about building true mental strengthHow to start rewiring your thoughts in just 2 minutes a dayIf you want to s...
2025-05-2307 min
HTP PodcastMeditation Positive Self-TalkEver feel like your biggest opponent is you? In this episode, weâre taking you through a calming, powerful guided meditation to help you rewire your self-talk, shake off self-doubt, and step into your power â point by point, breath by breath.Through deep breathing, full-body relaxation, and powerful visualization, you'll learn to:⨠Quiet the mental noise during matches ⨠Reframe negative thoughts like âIâm not good enough.â ⨠Replace them with game-changing affirmations like âI have what it takes to compete.â ⨠Visualize yourself staying focused, strong, and confident â no matter what the score...
2025-05-1617 min
HTP PodcastTurn Negative Self-Talk into a Positive MindsetWe all do itâeven the pros. In Part 2 of our self-talk series, weâre diving into why negative self-talk creeps in (hello, pressure!) and how to flip it into something powerful and productive. Learn how to catch your mental patterns, reframe them, and coach yourself mid-match like a pro.đ§ Tune in and train your brain, or remain the same.
2025-05-0905 min
HTP PodcastWhy is Self-Talk Important in Tennis?Ever feel like your own brain is your toughest opponent? đ
In this episode of the HTP Podcast, weâre diving into the science of self-talk â how the words you say to yourself can either build your game or break it down.đŹ Learn why your brain believes everything you tell it, how to rewire your mindset for performance, and why players like Djokovic and Coco Gauff are talking to themselvesâfor good reason.đž This is part 1 of our 3-part series on mastering your mental gameâdon't miss it! ⨠Take a breath, tune in, and start training your...
2025-05-0207 min
HTP PodcastMeditation Beginner's Guide to Breathing on the Tennis CourtTake a break from the grind and join me for a calming guided meditation designed just for tennis players. This episode walks you through deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and tennis-focused visualizations (think smooth forehands, powerful serves, and that sweet feeling of flow).đ Whatâs inside:A relaxing body scan from toes to headBreathing tricks to calm your nervesVisualization techniques to sharpen your strokesPerfect for pre-practice prep, post-practice recovery, or anytime you need to reset. Hit play, breathe deep, and let go.
2025-04-2520 min
HTP PodcastBeginner's Guide to Breathing on the Tennis CourtIn this episode, Gira gets real about a skill most players totally overlook: how to breathe when you're playing tennis. Sounds basic, but itâs a total game changer.⨠Youâll learn:Why holding your breath kills your flow (and your stamina)How to sync your breath with your shot and footworkThe between-point reset routine every player needsWhether youâre new to the game or just never learned how to breathe right, this episode will help you stay relaxed, focused, and powerful from first serve to match point. đŤ Letâs make breathing your secret w...
2025-04-1806 min
HTP PodcastMeditation Instant ConfidenceEpisode 6 is a guided meditation; youâll learn how to unlock instant confidence by quieting your mind and reconnecting with your body.Through breathwork, full-body relaxation, and powerful visualization, youâll release self-doubt and feeling like "you're not good enough."Let go of outcome-based thinking and return to a grounded, fearless version of yourselfâone that plays with joy, presence, and trust.By the end, youâll feel calm, focused, and ready to step onto the court with confidence.Train your mind, like you train your strokes. It is ideal to listen t...
2025-04-1119 min
HTP PodcastMeditation Overcome Performance AnxietyEpisode 5 is a guided meditation to help you overcome performance anxiety and step onto the court with confidence.Through deep breathing, progressive relaxation, and powerful visualizations, youâll learn to quiet your mind, focus on one point at a time, and trust your game.Tune in now to prepare your body and mind for positive peak performance!Train your mind, like you train your strokes. It is ideal to listen to this meditation every day for 33 days and see the magic unfold.
2025-04-0410 min
HTP PodcastHow to Handle Pressure (24 hours before) a Match and DuringIn this episode, we dive deep into how to handle pressure before and during a matchâone of the biggest challenges tennis players face at all levels. Whether you're a weekend warrior or a competitive junior, pressure doesnât have to be your enemy. It can be your greatest teacher.Let's explore:â
Pre-Match Preparation: Simulating pressure scenarios, using visualization techniques, and developing calming breathwork routines. â
Mindset Shifts: Learning to focus on the process, break matches into manageable points, and reframe pressure as a privilege. â
In-Match Strategies: Using self-talk, physical resets, and maintainin...
2025-03-2808 min
HTP PodcastOvercoming Performance AnxietyIn Episode 3, we tackle a challenge every tennis player faces at some pointâperformance anxiety before a match. Whether you're stepping onto the court for a tournament or a friendly game, those pre-match nerves can feel overwhelming. But hereâs the good news: you can train your mind and body to manage those emotions and thrive under pressure.We will cover:â
Understanding Performance Anxiety: Why it happens and how to shift your focus from fear to confidence. â
Visualization Techniques: Using mental imagery to create a sense of calm and control. â
Breathwork Strategies...
2025-03-2809 min
HTP PodcastUnlock Instant ConfidenceIn Episode 4, weâre breaking down a powerful concept that can transform your gameâinstant confidence. Most players believe confidence takes months (or even years) to build through results, repetition, and mental conditioning. But what if you could tap into confidence instantly, right before stepping onto the court?Weâll explore:â
Where Confidence DOESNâT Come From: Why affirmations, match results, and self-image arenât reliable sources of lasting confidence.â
The Real Source of Confidence: Shifting into a ânothing to loseâ mindset that frees you to play your best tennis.â
How to Let Go of Fear an...
2025-03-2806 min
HTP PodcastDevelop Mental Toughness for Tennis Player'sđž Weâre diving into one of the most crucial aspects of the game: developing mental toughness.Whether you're: â
A player striving to reach your personal best,â
A coach guiding your athletes, or â
A parent supporting your junior player, mental toughness is the glue that holds everything together in high-pressure moments.In this episode, weâll break down the key pillars of mental toughness, including:đŻ Awareness: Recognizing your thoughts and emotions during matches. đŞ Preparation: Building confidence through intentional practice and rituals. đ§ Mindset Shifts: Focusing on the process, not th...
2025-03-2707 min
HTP PodcastWelcome to Podcast HTPWelcome to The Podcast: Holistic Tennis Performance!This is your space to build mental toughness, elevate your game, and thrive as a whole personânot just a tennis player.
2025-03-2700 min