She Aced That

In this episode of She Aced That, Alyxandra sits down with Maya Winterhoff — middle blocker for the Columbus Fury of Major League Volleyball and App State's first-ever professional volleyball draftee. Selected No. 20 overall in the 2025 MLV Draft, Maya was the only player from the Sun Belt Conference drafted that year, capping off one of the most decorated careers in App State history: four-time All-Sun Belt, AVCA East Coast First-Team All-Region, over 1,000 career kills, and three consecutive seasons leading the Sun Belt in hitting percentage.In this conversation, Maya opens up about:🏐 Falling in love with volleyball as a sixth grader🏐 Why she chose App State over Dayton and Delaware (and the Instagram bio trick that helped her decide)🏐 The wild regional championship story that involved a ref call, a curtain, and social distancing🏐 What draft day actually looked like — including the pimple patches, the packing, and seeing her name on the screen🏐 The reality of transitioning from college to professional volleyball and playing alongside Olympic-level talent🏐 Why middle blocker is the most underappreciated position on the court🏐 Her dream of becoming a college coach and the path she's building to get thereMaya's story is a masterclass in trusting your gut, committing to your decisions, and letting your game speak — no matter where you start.Follow Maya and the Columbus Fury this MLV season.

What does it actually take to run a volleyball club? Not the polished version — the real, behind-the-scenes, phone-calls-every-morning, budgeting-over-a-year-in-advance version.In this episode, I sit down with Alan Patterson and Rob Conley, the Club Director and Assistant Club Director of Dynamite Volleyball Club out of South Lyon, Michigan. Al founded Dynamite — not because he set out to build a club, but because he wanted to give his daughter a better volleyball experience. What started as one local team has grown into a competitive club with nearly 170 athletes across national, premier, and local level teams.We get into all of it — what it costs to run a club, how they find and keep great coaches, what goes into hosting tournaments, how they handle drama and conflict on teams, their approach to recruiting, their reasonings on maintaining a smaller club size, and what kept them afloat during COVID when so many clubs didn't make it.Whether you're a volleyball parent trying to understand what actually goes on behind the scenes, a coach looking to grow, or someone who's ever thought about starting a club of your own — this conversation is for you!

This week I'm sitting down with Alejandro De Mendoza, also known as @thevolleyballcoach! Alejandro is the club director at Momentous Volleyball Club in California, a coach with over a decade in the sport, and someone who spent years working alongside the USA Women's National Team. We get into growth mindset and why that one little word "yet" is more powerful than you think, the difference between internal and external confidence and how people pleasing shows up in athletes more than we talk about, what it actually takes to build elite team culture, how his experiences changed the way he coaches, and what he wishes was different about youth volleyball development in the United States.

The future of volleyball is now — and Emily Ehman has been at the forefront of it!Emily grew up in Bloomington, Indiana as a multi-sport athlete playing both volleyball and track at a high level. She played club at Circle City in Indianapolis, driving over an hour each way. At 5'8" she could touch 10 feet — a direct result of her cross-training as a jumper and sprinter. She committed to Northwestern in the spring of her junior year, where she walked on as a libero after playing six-rotation outside her entire life and balanced playing in the Big Ten with one of the most rigorous journalism programs in the country.When COVID shut the world down right as she graduated, Emily took matters into her own hands. She built a volleyball web show from her parents' basement, pitched herself to volleyball publications and networks, and essentially created the digital host role in volleyball media. She covered the NCAA tournament for Big Ten Network, worked with Athletes Unlimited, and has since become a fixture on ESPN, ABC, Big Ten Network, Fox, and CBS. She was in the booth for volleyball day in Nebraska — the world record 92,003 attendance event — and has been at the forefront of pushing for better coverage, better visibility, and better treatment of the sport at every level.In this episode, Emily and I talk about being a multi-sport athlete, choosing a two's team over a one's team to keep doing track, walking on at Northwestern and the mindset shift of going from being the best on your team in high school to playing with other elite athletes in college, role acceptance and finding your value when you're not getting playing time, navigating student athlete life, graduating into a pandemic with no reel and no job, building a career from scratch by identifying gaps and pitching herself, what it was like to call volleyball day in Nebraska, the future of professional volleyball in the US, and her advice for anyone looking to keep the sport in their life beyond playing.Whether you're an athlete figuring out what's next, a parent supporting your kid through sports, or someone who just loves volleyball and wants to understand where this sport is headed — this episode is for you! Follow Emily Ehman: @EmilyEhman

Pitt Volleyball assistant coach Kamalani Akeo joins She Aced That to talk about what makes one of the most successful programs in college volleyball so consistently elite. From culture and buy-in to direct communication and what Pitt calls "small conflicts," Kamalani breaks down the foundation that has led to multiple Final Four appearances and national championship runs.Kamalani's own story is just as compelling — growing up in a volleyball family in Hawaii, playing club under Olympic medalist Robin Ah Mow-Santos, tearing her ACL senior year of high school, committing to Pitt as a libero and becoming ACC Setter of the Year as a sophomore, playing professionally in the Czech Republic and Slovenia during COVID, and coaching at Pitt alongside her younger sister. We also get into the recruiting process from a coach's perspective, advice for setters on leading beyond technique, how to navigate injuries without losing your identity, and what parents really need to hear about supporting their kids in sports.Follow Kamalani @kamalaniakeo

Holly Toliver ran the Michigan State volleyball camps I attended as a kid and was one of the players I looked up to at Jenison Fieldhouse. She was part of MSU's historic 2017 Elite Eight run, ranked second in the Big Ten in aces, and went on to play professional volleyball across the world and at Athletes Unlimited alongside Olympians like Jordan Larson.This conversation is one of the most honest we've had about what it's really like to go pro, the highs of playing on international stages and winning MVP awards, and the lows of getting released by your own college coach from a professional team. Holly opens up about dealing with injuries without proper support at times, the decision to walk away from the sport, and how she's now pursuing her next chapter. We talk about the grief that comes with leaving something you love—even when it's still alive and accessible—and why that transition is so hard no matter what level you played at. Holly also shares incredible advice about not boxing yourself into one position, her serving routine that made her elite, and why versatility makes you a better athlete.If you've ever struggled with identity after sports, making hard career decisions, or figuring out what comes next when your playing days end, this episode is for you.

Elise Hardesty-Irvin, NAIA college coach, 17U club coach, and the creator behind @letstalkvolleyball joins She Aced That!In this conversation, we discuss:What it really takes to be a setter - the mental fortitude, leadership, and constant feedbackPractical advice for athletes dealing with injuries and mental blocksRecruiting truths every athlete and parent needs to hear (when to start, how often to email, keeping options open)How she started @letstalkvolleyball after feeling burnt out and falling back in love with the sportConflict resolution skills for teams using "I" and "we" statementsHer favorite skills to coachWhat's missing in volleyball content and what conversations need to happen moreThe one piece of advice she'd give her freshman-year selfThis episode is packed with insights, authenticity, and actionable advice.Follow Elise: @letstalkvolleyball on TikTok Topics: volleyball recruiting, NAIA volleyball, college volleyball, setter training, sports psychology, concussion recovery, the yips, mental blocks, transfer portal, volleyball coaching, @letstalkvolleyball, content creation, athlete mental health

Dr. Anitra Brockman continues to make history! As the head coach of the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) Men's D1 Volleyball Program, the first NCAA D1 HBCU to add men's volleyball, Dr. Brockman is breaking barriers and paving the way for the next generation of female coaches.In this episode, we dive into:How she went from parent coach to D1 trailblazer What it's really like being the only woman in the roomThe misconceptions about women coaching men—and why vulnerability is a strength, not a weaknessHer advice for young coaches: "You don't need permission. All you need is belief in yourself, a mentor, and drive."Building a program from scratch with character over talentMaking volleyball more accessible for communities that need it mostDr. Brockman's message is clear: Stop waiting for validation. Stop listening to people who don't want you where you are. Go do the dang thing.Follow Dr. Brockman:Instagram: @DrCoachABrockmanUMES Men's Volleyball: @UMESHawksMVB

What happens when you break your back in three places at 15? For Victoria Clay, it became the catalyst for an incredible journey from Division I cheerleader to fitness entrepreneur impacting well over 100,000 people.In this episode, Victoria shares her philosophy that changed everything: "Confidence comes from your preparation." Using her powerful balance beam analogy, she breaks down why practicing like you compete is the difference between showing up nervous and showing up ready—whether you're an athlete, entrepreneur, or starting something new.We dive into:Overcoming a career-ending back injury and the mental strength it took to returnThe perfectionism trap in sports (and how to break free)Victoria's battle with self-doubt before posting her first fitness videoTeaching 13 CycleBar classes a week while building Victoria's FitnessThe truth about fueling your body as an athlete and instructorWhy "if you want to go fast, go alone—but if you want to go far, go together"Creating spaces where vulnerability is welcomed and community is everythingHow to actually START when you're scared, busy, or feel unpreparedVictoria is a former Liberty University cheerleader, CycleBar instructor & manager, head gymnastics coach at Northville High School, and certified nutritionist who's built a thriving fitness community both online and in person. Her story is proof that your setbacks don't define you—how you come back does!If you've ever struggled with perfectionism, felt lost after athletics, or wondered if you should just start that thing you've been thinking about for years—this episode is for you.Connect with Victoria:Instagram: @victorias__fitnessTikTok: @victoriaclay0CycleBar Northville (Michigan)Connect with She Aced That: @sheacedthat

Leah Wilton-LaBoy just finished her senior season at the University of Utah! She started at Utah State, transferred to Oklahoma, then finished her college career at The University of Utah. Three programs, three coaching staffs, three completely different groups of hitters - and she still hit 2000 career assists!In this conversation, Leah shares about:→ Growing up in a volleyball family → Winning the Mountain West Conference Tournament as a freshman→ Why she entered the transfer portal—twice→ Losing some confidence at Oklahoma and how she rebuilt it→ What it's like to take a set off Nebraska in front of a sold-out crowd→ Her philosophy on building trust with hitters quickly→ Why the setter-hitter connection is about relationships, not just reps→ Advice for athletes navigating the transfer portal🎧 Listen wherever you get your podcasts :) Follow Leah: @leahlaboyyFollow She Aced That: @sheacedthat

What's really going on in your head when you freeze up in big moments? Why are you so much harder on yourself than you'd ever be on a teammate? And how do you actually build confidence instead of just faking it?This week I sat down with Alison Gorrell, a mental performance coach who played D1 basketball, went pro overseas for seven years, and got her masters in sport and exercise psychology while still playing professionally. She's worked with athletes from youth to Olympic level—including the Scotland National Beach Volleyball team at the Commonwealth Games—and she breaks down the mental side of sports in a way that just clicks.We get into confidence, self-talk, how to reset after mistakes, what coaches and parents can do to actually help, and why your brain is literally wired to work against you sometimes. Alison shares what it was like balancing pro basketball with building her business, how her parents (a psychologist and a philosopher) shaped the way she thinks about performance, and why she believes failure is part of the equation for success.One thing she said that I can't stop thinking about: "You're too valuable to be stuck in the past."This one's for athletes, parents, and coaches—and honestly, anyone who's ever been in their own head a little too much.Follow Mental Performance Coach Alison Gorrell: @coachgorrellFollow She Aced That: @sheacedthat_ on IG, @sheacedthat on TikTok

Welcome back to Season 2 of She Aced That! This week we have Evie Doezema who just wrapped up her senior season at Michigan State after four years with the program. In this conversation, we talk about what loyalty looks like in the age of the transfer portal, switching positions at the D1 level, and how she's leaving MSU better than she found it! We also get into:Growing up in Grand Rapids and her journey to MSUSwitching from outside hitter to right side to middle blockerThe full-circle moment of playing for Coach Kristen KelsayPerfectionism and separating your confidence from your performanceWhat's next for her: beach volleyball at PepperdinePlus, I'm kicking off Season 2 with some thoughts on making small, sustainable changes this year and how to use perfectionism as a tool instead of letting it control you.Follow Evie's journey: @evie.doezemaFollow She Aced That: @sheacedthat

Welcome to the Season 1 finale of She Aced That! In this episode, I'm reflecting on six months of conversations with professional volleyball players, mental performance coaches, college coaches, and community builders. From Coach Kelsay's courageous conflict approach at Michigan State to Brooke Nuneviller's journey to professional volleyball and signing with Mizuno. From Bella Bergmark sharing inside the mind of a professional middle blocker to Ellen Dempsey's journey from championships to leading volleyball's fight against breast cancer and so, so much more.In this episode:NCAA Tournament update (both #1 seeds are out!)The themes that emerged across 25 episodesFavorite quotes and moments from guestsThoughts on coaching integrity and what's been happening in the sports worldWhat I've learned about content creation and communitySeason 2 preview: returning January 7thThank you for being part of the She Aced That community! Happy holidays, and see you in January :)

Mackenzie Yoakum was a three-time All-State player who led her team to states for the first time in 14 years. She had nearly 700 kills her last two years of high school. In this genuine conversation, Mackenzie walks us through navigating the transfer portal twice, choosing to redshirt, finishing a season 2-29, and the moment she realized earning her spot had nothing to do with playing time—it was about becoming who she was meant to be all along.We talk about the parts of college athletics nobody prepares you for: the mental drills that break you down, the reality of being a preferred walk-on, what it's like when your coach tells you not to ask about playing time again, and how to support your teammates when you're struggling to support yourself.This episode is for the athlete who's questioning if they're good enough. For the parent watching their kid struggle with their role. For the coach trying to understand what their bench players are going through. And for anyone who's ever had to redefine success when life doesn't go according to plan. Because sometimes the greatest growth happens when you're not in the game! Find Mackenzie on TikTok @xdmackxd and on Instagram @mackenzieyoakum_Follow @sheacedthat on all social media platformsNew Episodes of She Aced That Every Wednesday!

Lindsay Rowe, founder of Ace Factory in Michigan, a mother of seven and a Marine Corps veteran spouse, saw a gap: families driving hours for indoor training, athletes missing opportunities because of cost, and kids needing positive spaces to belong.So she built it herself.We dive deep into:​The night their 1906 farmhouse burned down and how her family escaped by jumping from second-story windows​Living in a single-wide trailer for over 300 days while rebuilding on the same land​The community support that changed everything—and learning to receive help after years of being the helper​Why she opened Ace Factory: making elite training accessible regardless of financial situation​Her partnership with Fundraising University to help teams fund athletes with financial support​The "no problems, only solutions" mindset that carried them through the darkest times​How her athletic background shaped her resilience and approach to adversityLindsay's mission is simple but powerful: money should never be the reason a kid can't access quality training. From the Strong Moms Club to youth strength and conditioning programs, Ace Factory is more than a gym—it's a community hub where athletes, families, and coaches come together.This conversation will remind you that resilience isn't about bouncing back to who you were before. It's about using what you've been through to build something even better.Connect with Ace Factory:Instagram & Facebook: @acefactoryofficialInstagram & Facebook: @rusticmarineLocation: Kensington Valley Outlets, Howell, Michigan

What separates good athletes from elite athletes? The mental game.In this episode, mental performance coach Jess Knecht breaks down the Four Cs of Elite Mindset: Commitment, Confidence, Concentration, and Composure. Jess, a partner at Max Out Mindset who works with Division I athletes, championship teams, and professional players shares actionable strategies you can use TODAY to train your mental game.In this conversation, we cover:Why confidence is trainable (and the ingredients to build it)How to refocus under pressure when the game is on the lineThe reality of role acceptance and why it's critical at every levelStrategies for rebuilding confidence after mistakesHow coaches can create psychologically safe environments while maintaining high standardsWhy commitment is the foundation that unlocks everything elseWhether you're an athlete struggling with self-talk, a coach building team chemistry, or a parent supporting your kid through competitive sports, this episode gives you the tools to strengthen the mental side of performance.Key takeaway: Your mind is a muscle. The best athletes don't just work harder—they train their minds consistently, have awareness of their thoughts, and apply strategies when it matters most.Follow Jess on Instagram: @max_out_mindset_jessNew Episodes of She Aced That Every Wednesday!

Why do so many talented athletes dominate in practice but freeze in games? In this powerful conversation, mental performance coach Kristen Woodman breaks down the real reasons athletes underperform—and how to fix it.Kristen shares her personal journey of using volleyball as an escape and how those experiences shaped her approach to training mental toughness. We dive deep into:- The practice vs. game performance gap (and how to close it)- Why perfectionism and people-pleasing hold female athletes back- "Commit to the flip" - her analogy for pushing through fear- Playing frantic vs. playing urgent under pressure- The compartmentalization strategy that keeps you focused- What parents need to know about the car ride home- How to build unshakable confidence from withinWhether you're an athlete struggling to access your best game when it matters, a parent wanting to support your kid better, or a coach looking to understand the mental side of performance—this episode is packed with practical strategies you can use today.Follow Kristen: @thementalvolleyballcoachNew episodes of She Aced That every Wednesday!

Fresh off signing with Mizuno, Brooke Nuneviller joins She Aced That to share her incredible journey from college standout to professional volleyball player. As a three-time All-American at the University of Oregon and the only player in Pac-12 history to record 1,500+ kills and 2,000+ digs, Brooke has built a career defined by versatility, grit, and passion for the game.In this episode, Brooke opens up about:Her recent partnership with Mizuno and what it means to her careerTransitioning from libero to outside hitter in college and the challenges that came with itThe nutrition and training changes that transformed her gameChoosing Oregon over Stanford and playing for Team USAHer experience playing overseas in Turkey vs. the rise of professional volleyball in the United StatesLife with the Omaha Supernovas and being named 2025 PVF Outside Hitter of the YearThe unique format of Athletes Unlimited and keeping the sport fun after 20 yearsWhat she hopes her legacy will be beyond the awards and accoladesWhether you're an aspiring athlete, a volleyball fan, or someone who loves hearing stories of perseverance and passion, Brooke's journey will inspire you to chase your dreams and never let anyone tell you what you can't do.Connect with Brooke: @brooke_nuneviller on Instagram

Playing scared or feel burnt out at the end of your school season? This episode is your game plan for the gap between high school and club season. We're talking about what playing scared actually looks like, how to tell if you're burnt out vs. just having a bad week, and the exact framework for using your off-season to reset. Week-by-week guidance on rest, low-pressure play, cross-training, and coming back ready to play free. Plus, a weekend recap of college volleyball chaos including Kentucky's sweep over Texas and Nebraska's continued dominance.New Episodes Every Wednesday!

From Stanford star to Team USA gold medalist to Director of Volleyball at Athletes Unlimited, Cassidy Lichtman has played every position in volleyball—and now she's building the future of this sport in America.In this episode, Cassidy shares her incredible journey including:How she "snuck into" the national team gym and stayed for 5 yearsThe revolutionary Athletes Unlimited model where players have equity and teams change weeklyWinning Pan Am Cup golds and that unforgettable moment when 40,000 fans finally chanted "USA" Balancing a BA and MA in 4 years while winning 4 Pac-12 championships at StanfordOvercoming chronic pain after being told at age 9 she'd never walk againHer transition from player to executive and why she's angry about how long it took for pro volleyball to arrive in the USThe truth about playing professionally overseas and dealing with challenging coachesWhy the best way to earn points in AU's individual scoring system is still through team winsWhether you're a volleyball player, coach, parent, or fan, this conversation reveals how one person's determination to create opportunities for others is transforming American volleyball forever.🏐 Follow Cassidy and Athletes Unlimited:@AUProSports@cassidylichtman🎙️ Follow She Aced That:Instagram: @sheacedthat_Tiktok: @sheacedthat

In this powerful episode of She Aced That, we sit down with Ellen Dempsey, the winningest volleyball coach in Hiram College history turned Executive Director of the Side-Out Foundation.Ellen shares her incredible journey from dual-sport athlete at Michigan State (volleyball & track), through a career-ending injury that launched her coaching path, to becoming a championship coach with 2 conference titles, 4 NCAA tournaments, and 4 Coach of the Year awards. She coached at the 1994 U.S. Olympic Sports Festival and transformed every program she touched!But Ellen's greatest impact is happening right now. As Executive Director of the Side-Out Foundation, she's leading volleyball's fight against metastatic breast cancer through the Dig Pink movement. Learn how Side-Out's Precision Medicine Analysis is helping MBC patients NOW while conducting groundbreaking research for future treatments.Whether you're a volleyball player, coach, parent, or someone touched by breast cancer, Ellen's story of transforming competitive drive into life-saving purpose will inspire you.Visit side-out.org to support the Dig Pink movement and help those living with metastatic breast cancer.🌐 CONNECT & SUPPORT:Side-Out Foundation: https://www.side-out.orgHost a Dig Pink Event: side-out.org/dig-pinkFollow She Aced That: @sheacedthatRecorded October 2025 - Breast Cancer Awareness Month! Please share to spread awareness about metastatic breast cancer and the incredible work of the Side-Out Foundation.

Three months in: midnight edits, morning meetings, and how I know I was made for this. If you're waiting for the "right time" to start that thing you've been thinking about, spoiler alert: there isn't one. The time is now! Connect: @sheacedthat | [email protected] IN THIS EPISODE:Michigan State VolleyballCoach Kelsay InterviewBella Bergmark Interview New episodes every Wednesday

Join me for an insightful conversation with professional volleyball player Bella Bergmark, who takes us from her early days as an outside hitter to becoming a two-time NCAA champion middle blocker and has played professional volleyball on various continents.Bella opens up about her pivotal coin flip decision that led her to transfer from Cal to Texas, where she won back-to-back national championships. She breaks down the technical and mental challenges of playing middle at the professional level - from reading setters in milliseconds to adapting to the lightning-fast international game in France and Puerto Rico. She offers valuable insights on scouting opponents and the differences between college and professional volleyball. Follow Bella Bergmark on social media for inside volleyball content and training insights! New episodes every Wednesday!

In this episode of She Aced That, I sit down with Kathryn to explore her journey building a boys high school volleyball program from nothing. Two years later, her players are heading to college teams—athletes who had never touched a volleyball before their junior or senior year. Kathryn shares the reality of starting something terrifying, the unexpected differences between coaching boys and girls, and why winning isn't the only goal. Finding that balance between pushing athletes and showing grace, this honest conversation offers insights for coaches, parents, and anyone thinking about creating opportunities in their community. Sometimes you just have to say yes !New Episodes of She Aced That every Wednesday!

Michigan State's Head Volleyball Coach Kristen Kelsay returns home to lead the program where she finished her Spartan career with over 3,000 assists—3,040 to be exact—ranking her sixth all-time in MSU history. She appeared in 133 career matches, which ranks eighth all-time at Michigan State, and her 473 career sets ranks fourth in program history. As a multi-year team captain, she led the Spartans to back-to-back NCAA Sweet 16 appearances in 2012 and 2013, while earning CoSIDA Academic All-America honors and being named a three-time Big Ten Distinguished Scholar. In this informative conversation, Kristen joins Alyxandra on She Aced That and shares her leadership philosophy, the courage it takes to address conflict, and why authenticity matters more than perfection. From player to coach, her journey comes full circle at MSU with an undefeated 7-0 start (when episode was recorded). This episode is ESSENTIAL for anyone in sports leadership.The episode truly captures something special - that combination of vulnerability, wisdom, and genuine passion for developing young women both on and off the court. Coach Kelsay's "bank account" analogy and her thoughts on courageous conflict are particularly powerful takeaways that will resonate with coaches and leaders at any level. New She Aced That Episodes Every Wednesday! Follow @sheacedthat on all social media platformsFollow Coach Kelsay @kriskels12 on Instagram

In this informative episode of She Aced That, I sit down with my former Michigan State club volleyball teammate Alex Repasky to discuss her incredible journey through a devastating triple knee injury (ACL, MCL, and meniscus) during her senior season. Alex shares:- The moment everything changed at a Central Michigan tournament- Taking a gap year of volleyball after high school - How she spent 6 years at Michigan State (and why that was the best thing)- The mental battle of learning to jump and attack again after surgery- Transitioning from player to coach during injury recovery- Making it to nationals twice and the heartbreak of her final seasonFrom playing club volleyball at age 8 to now coaching the next generation, Alex's story is proof that setbacks can lead to unexpected opportunities. Whether you're recovering from an injury, struggling with college transitions, or questioning your athletic future, this conversation will inspire you to keep pushing forward.Follow She Aced That: @sheacedthatConnect with Alex: @alexandra_repasky

Former libero, Amanda Lynch, joins Alyxandra and shares how back row lessons and team superstitions became the foundation of her long-term coaching success. After 11 years leading teams, she's proof that combining genuine care with high standards (and maybe even some backwards chants that turned into championship-winning superstitions) creates the kind of team culture every coach dreams about.From watching older girls play at Catholic school recess to walking on at Pitt Greensburg, Amanda's path proves that setbacks can become your greatest teaching tools. She shares honest insights about parent dynamics, team chemistry, and why the back row perspective makes the best coaches. Amanda reveals how libero life taught her to see the whole court, read the game differently, and understand that defense truly wins championships. She's refreshingly honest about the politics and favoritism she faced as a player and how those experiences drive her to create fair, successful environments for her teams.Whether you're a current libero, a coach, or someone who's been overlooked in sports, Amanda's journey from the back row as a player to the sideline as a coach is packed with wisdom about resilience, standards, and yes - why some superstitions are worth keeping.Timestamps: 01:31 – Early Volleyball Experiences & CYO02:27 – Discovering Libero 06:21 – Favoritism and Team Politics14:01 – Navigating Team Cliques & High School Dynamics20:37 – Playing College Volleyball27:46 – Transition to Coaching32:25 – Coaching Philosophy & Team Selection41:01 – Parent Dynamics & Coaching Challenges45:00 – Superstitions, Family, and ClosingNew Episode Every Wednesday on Apple/Spotify/Youtube! Follow @sheacedthat on all social media platforms!

Ever felt like sports isn't just about who's the best player? This episode dives deep into the hidden politics, power dynamics, and unspoken truths that exist in volleyball and youth sports. From coach favoritism to social media comparison, I'm sharing the real stories nobody talks about publicly - the conversations that only happen in team group chats and car rides home. If you've ever questioned why someone's starting over you despite your skills, or noticed certain players getting away with everything, this episode validates your experience. You're not crazy, and you're definitely not alone.Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro & Welcome00:15 - The Hidden Game of Volleyball & Team Politics04:55 - Navigating Team Roles & Mental Impact06:35 - Coaching, Favoritism, and Parent Dynamics11:16 - Dealing with Toxic Teammates & Club Politics18:00 - Social Media, Comparison, and Recruiting20:47 - The Mental Game: Self-Doubt & Overthinking22:34 - Final Thoughts & OutroEpisodes Every Wednesday on Spotify, Apple & Youtube!Follow @SheAcedThat on all social media platforms!

In this episode of She Aced That, I sit down with one of my best friends and former MSU teammate, Bryn Nagel, to discuss her incredible journey as a setter who was told she was "too small" for the big leagues. From choosing volleyball at age 8 because it was inside, to becoming a decorated setter who won MVP awards and changed the game at every level, Bryn shares the raw truth about:🏐 Being the "quarterback" who gets all the blame but none of the credit🏐 Making All-Star camp 3 years in a row but never making the team (and the devastating truth she learned later)🏐 A toxic coach that tried to impact her love for volleyball 🏐 Finding her home at Michigan State Club Volleyball as a JUNIOR after not playing competitively for a few years prior🏐 Becoming a neighborhood legend in Belle Harbor, NYPlus, we dive into the unique challenges setters face, navigating team drama, the power of having your volleyball "squad," and how she's now passing on her love for the sport to her fiancé, John!Whether you're a setter, a volleyball player at any position, or someone who's been told you're "not enough" - this episode will inspire you to trust yourself and keep pushing forward.Timestamps:0:00 Opening/MSU connection1:38 Early volleyball journey10:36 Becoming a setter18:40 Height discrimination & All-Star heartbreak29:21 Toxic coaching experience37:56 MSU transformation47:31 Team drama & resolution56:59 Current life & rec league1:02:11 Coaching philosophy1:09:00 Final wisdomFollow She Aced That:TikTok: @sheacedthatInstagram: @sheacedthat_Follow Bryn:Instagram: @bryn_nicoleTikTok: @brynnicole2

In this episode, Alyxandra gets real about navigating those first few weeks back to routine - the schedule shock, the social juggling, and yes, even the drama. Whether you're in the middle of tryouts, just survived week one, or wondering if you even want to play this season, this episode breaks down exactly HOW to handle it all. From managing anxiety the night before school starts to dealing with sore muscles and impossible homework schedules, we're covering what actually works (not just "do your best" advice).KEY TAKEAWAYS:✓ Write down your 3 biggest worries + their actual likelihood✓ Peak energy windows for homework✓ How to set boundaries with team drama ✓ Managing school, sports, and social life without burning out✓ Recovery strategies for sore muscles✓ Daily confidence-building exercises✓ Building real confidence when everything feels overwhelming✓ The 24-hour rule for when you want to quit✓ Why your mistakes don't define youPerfect for athletes navigating the chaos of a new season. Remember: you're not just surviving this transition, you're becoming unstoppable.TIMESTAMPS:01:05 - Adjusting to School & Sports05:15 - Tryouts, Pressure & Proving Yourself08:45 - Social Life, Friendships & Drama13:52 - Recovery, Confidence & Resilience19:14 - Burnout, Motivation & Closing📱 CONNECT WITH US:Instagram: @sheacedthatTikTok: @sheacedthatNew episodes every Wednesday!

Not everyone goes D1. Not everyone has the perfect trajectory in their sports career. But everyone who stays in the game has a story worth telling.Sometimes the JV journey makes the best varsity story. Alyssa Kerrigan proves that your worth as an athlete isn't determined by making varsity as a sophomore or committing to a D1 school. It's about what you do when the path isn't perfect.In this episode we cover:✓ Walking into high school tryouts knowing NOBODY (and how volleyball saved her)✓ The moment she made JV as a Junior (and why she didn't quit)✓ Her senior year redemption that ended with All-Conference honors✓ The "yips" - that thing no athlete talks about but everyone experiences✓ Roommates, Teammates & Drama✓ Living together through it all - the friendship that survived everythingTIMESTAMPS:00:20 - Switching Schools & Volleyball Beginnings04:28 - Making Friends & Team Dynamics08:59 - JV, Varsity, and Team Progression15:46 - Handling Disappointment & Growth27:04 - Senior Year & Achievements36:59 - College Life & Friendship45:18 - Adult Life & Reflections52:54 - Rapid Fire Q&A58:33 - Closing ThoughtsThis episode is for every athlete who's been underestimated. Your comeback is coming! CONNECT: @sheacedthat🎧 Listen on Spotify & AppleNew episodes every Wednesday! Subscribe and hit the notification bell so you never miss a story.

The Complete College Volleyball Recruiting Guide You NEED | She Aced That PodcastAre coaches not reaching out to you? You're not alone, and it's not over. In this game-changing episode, I'm sharing EVERYTHING I wish I knew in high school about volleyball recruiting.📍 TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 — Why This Matters1:12 — The Realities of College Athletics2:17 — Understanding Your Options: NCAA divisions, NAIA, and junior colleges explained7:27 — Building Your Recruiting Game Plan & How to get noticed: profiles, outreach, highlight videos, and social media12:48 — Communicating with Coaches: Best practices for emails, calls, follow-ups, and gauging interest15:41 — Campus Visits & Making Decisions: How to prepare, what to look for, and red flags to watch out for18:21 — Money Talk: Scholarships & Financial Aid20:22 — Handling Setbacks & Staying Motivated: Dealing with rejection, alternative paths, and keeping your love for the game alive34:50 — Final Encouragement & TakeawaysIn this episode, you'll learn: ✓ The EXACT email subject line formula that gets coaches' attention ✓ 4 levels of coach interest (and how to gauge where you stand) ✓ 20-30 questions to ask coaches and recruiters✓ Timeline breakdown: Freshman year through senior year ✓ How to get recruited even if no coaches are currently contacting you (yes, even if you are a senior!)✓ D1, D2, D3, NAIA, and Junior College options explainedAlyxandra's Pro Tips included:Match the recruiting coach’s energy +10-20%When to discuss scholarships (hint: NOT in your first email)Red flags to watch for during campus visitsHow to stand out when coaches can't legally contact you yet💡 KEY TAKEAWAY: You have the ball in YOUR court. Coaches are watching long before they can contact you, and you can start the conversation!📱 CONNECT WITH ME: Instagram: @sheacedthat TikTok: @sheacedthat 🏐 Share this with a teammate who needs to hear this!

One coaching decision during a tryout changed my entire volleyball career and I knew I had to share Coach Andy Stepp's story with you all. From learning competitive volleyball at the YMCA to becoming a transformational coach who's impacted hundreds of athletes, Andy's journey proves that the best teachers often come from the most unexpected paths.In this powerful episode, we explore his game-changing "900 Square Feet" philosophy - a mindset that transformed not just how his teams play, but how they approach life. We dive deep into making mistakes vs. failures, standing up for your players, and why cutting athletes doesn't mean closing doors.Whether you're an athlete, coach, parent, or someone navigating life's challenges, Andy's wisdom about focusing on what you can control will shift your perspective. Coach Andy Stepp shares:✓ How learning volleyball at 20 shaped his unique coaching approach✓ The ankle injury that transformed him from player to setter✓ Why you're only touching the ball 30 seconds in an entire match (and what to do with the other 59 minutes)✓ The powerful "900 Square Feet" mindset that will change how you see sports and life✓ Real stories of standing up to refs and parents to protect players✓ Why he tells EVERY cut player to come talk to him, no matter the team ✓ The difference between mistakes and failures (this will change your life!)Timestamps: Introduction & Welcome: 00:00Andy’s Volleyball Journey & Early Coaching: 01:55Learning Volleyball as an Adult: 04:06Team Dynamics & Communication: 08:10Mindset, Mistakes, and Coaching Philosophy: 20:07Injury & Becoming a Setter: 22:52Family & Volleyball Legacy: 43:47Player Safety & Standing Up for Athletes: 46:44Difficult Conversations & Lessons Beyond Volleyball: 56:05Closing & Final Thoughts: 1:13:09This episode is for:Athletes feeling overlooked or struggling with confidenceCoaches wanting to make a real impactParents navigating youth sportsAnyone who needs to hear that mistakes are not failuresPeople looking for practical wisdom on focusing on what you can controlCoach Andy's philosophy extends far beyond volleyball - it's about empowerment, growth, and understanding that you have more power than you think.🔔 Subscribe for more empowering sports stories and life lessons📱 Follow @SheAcedThat on all platforms for daily inspiration and volleyball tips#volleyball #CoachingWisdom #SportsPhilosophy #SheAcedThat #YouthSports #Mindset #PersonalGrowth #WomensVolleyball #SportsPodcast

The reality of college club sports! In this honest conversation, Alyxandra sits down with her best friend and former MSU Club Volleyball teammate Liz Ko to expose the truth about court anxiety, playing time politics, and what college club sports are really like.Liz shares her journey from planning to not play volleyball after high school to accidentally making the MSU club team. We talk about the reality of less playing time, how one coach can destroy your confidence while another can rebuild it, and why being pitted against your own teammates for positions creates wounds that last long after the season ends.But this isn't just about the struggles - it's about finding your way through them. We discuss how court anxiety doesn't have to end your career, why your worth isn't determined by your playing time, and how sometimes the best thing that can happen is finding a friend who gets it."If it wasn't for volleyball, I don't know if we would've ever crossed paths. Neither of us thought we were gonna be playing in college and look where it got us."Whether you're dealing with anxiety, frustrated with playing time, or wondering if college sports are worth the mental toll - you're not alone. This is for every athlete who's ever questioned if they belong.Guest: Liz Ko (@lizbizko)Host: Alyxandra (@sheacedthat)New episodes every Wednesday!

From the sidelines to social media, sports parents can make or break their child's athletic journey. In this must-listen episode, host Alyxandra gets real about the hard truths of sports parenting. She takes listeners through a deep dive into the uncomfortable truths about sports parenting that no one talks about.As a former player, coach, AND parent, she's seen it all - from parents who get it right to those who unknowingly impact their child's passion for the game. Alyxandra shares how her own parents became her biggest supporters without ever being her biggest problem, and the three simple rules they followed that changed everything.In this episode, you'll learn:- Why the parents who think they're helping the most are often hurting the most- The psychological impact of over-involved sports parenting- Real scenarios and scripts for handling playing time, bad games, and coaching decisions- When to step in vs. when to step back- How to raise resilient adults, not just athletesWhether you're a parent trying to support your young athlete, or a player dealing with overbearing parents, this episode will give you the tools to navigate the complex world of youth sports with grace and wisdom."You're not raising a volleyball player. You're raising a future adult who happens to play volleyball right now."⏰ TIMESTAMPS:00:00 - Introduction: Hard Truths About Sports Parenting00:56 - My Experience: Player, Coach, Parent02:34 - How My Parents Got It Right03:30 - The Parent Every Athlete Knows (And Fears)04:59 - When "Helping" Becomes Hurting10:36 - The Psychology of Over-Involved Parents14:34 - How to Support Without Suffocating16:26 - Real Scenarios: Playing Time, Bad Games & Coaching Decisions18:41 - Final Thoughts: You're Raising Adults, Not Athletes🎙️ New episodes every Wednesday!📱 Follow She Aced That:TikTok: @sheacedthatInstagram: @sheacedthat_Facebook: @sheacedthatEbook, Podcast, Links: linktr.ee/sheacedthat

Join host Alyxandra as she reveals exactly what coaches look for during tryouts and shares exclusive insights on what's really on their clipboards. From position-specific Alyxandra Pro Tips to the power of being the first to volunteer, this episode reveals why the best teammate often beats the most skillful player.Plus, hear why volleyball is the ultimate metaphor for handling life's challenges. Whether you're preparing for your first tryout or your tenth, this episode will transform how you show up - both in the gym and in life.Perfect for players, parents, and anyone who believes sports can change lives. Because this isn't just about volleyball - it's about becoming the person who shows up for themselves and others, on and off the court.New episodes every Wednesday. 🏐✨

In the inaugural episode of 'She Aced That,' host Alyxandra takes listeners through her volleyball journey, sharing experiences from elementary school teams to college-level club volleyball. Alyxandra discusses the essence of volleyball beyond just skills and drills, emphasizing the importance of navigating social dynamics, handling setbacks, and maintaining a positive attitude. She introduces an e-book, 'She Aced That: Tryout Ready,' designed to be a comprehensive guide for those preparing for volleyball tryouts. Practical tips on managing tryout nerves, setting intentions, and packing essentials are shared. Listeners get insights into what coaches truly look for during tryouts and how a positive attitude can often outweigh technical skills. Alyxandra concludes with a message of self-kindness and encouragement, reminding everyone that endings can often mark new beginnings.00:00 Welcome to She Aced That Podcast01:15 Introducing the She Aced That Tryout Ready Ebook02:20 My Volleyball Journey Begins03:26 High School Volleyball Challenges07:29 Transitioning to College Volleyball10:04 Coaching and Mentoring Experiences13:56 The Importance of Attitude in Volleyball19:23 Handling Tryout Nerves23:30 Preparing for Tryouts: Tips and Rituals30:33 Breaking the Tryout Code35:20 Wrapping Up and Looking Ahead