Smiley Riley (Palmer) THE Pickleball show with Curtis Reese - May 2025

In this engaging episode of *The Pickleball Show*, host Curtis Reese welcomes the vibrant and inspiring 'Smiley' Riley Palmer, an Arizona-based pickleball coach and beloved figure in the sport. Known for her infectious positivity and nickname 'Smiley,' Riley is a mother of three and the founder of a thriving pickleball coaching business in Scottsdale. She also runs clinics across Maricopa County, throughout the U.S., and even internationally, bringing her passion and expertise to players of all levels.Curtis and Riley dive into her pickleball journey, framed by her "BC" (Before COVID) and "AC" (After COVID) experiences. In her BC days, Riley shares how, at 5’2”, she found pickleball to be the perfect fit after being limited in other pick-up sports. She recounts how the sport’s accessibility—open to all ages, sexes, and backgrounds—drew her in and sparked a lifelong love. Post-COVID, Riley’s career took off as she embraced the sport’s boom, expanding her coaching to include team-building events, couples’ nights, and girls’ night-out pickleball parties, complete with coaching, round-robin play, and fun awards.Riley reflects on the pandemic’s impact, noting how pickleball’s popularity surged as people sought safe, social, and active outlets. She shares insights on how her business adapted AC, leveraging virtual tips and outdoor clinics to keep players engaged. Curtis and Riley also discuss her commitment to community, her love for teaching, and how word-of-mouth has grown her loyal client base. Tune in for an uplifting conversation filled with practical tips, heartfelt stories, and Smiley Riley’s signature enthusiasm for pickleball!https://smileyrileypickleball.com/https://www.instagram.com/smileyrileypickleball/?hl=enhttps://www.facebook.com/p/Smiley-Riley-Pickleball-100084890945660/