In this engaging conversation, Holly McPeak shares her incredible journey from being a three-time Olympian and a standout volleyball player to becoming a prominent commentator in the sport. The discussion delves into the evolution of volleyball, the impact of the NIL and transfer portal on college sports, and the growth of women's volleyball. Holly emphasizes the importance of hard work, mentorship, and the need for better representation in sports commentary. The conversation also highlights the exciting future of professional volleyball and the opportunities it presents for athletes and commentators alike. In this engaging conversation, Holly McPeak shares her journey from being a competitive indoor volleyball player to a successful beach volleyball athlete and broadcaster. She discusses the importance of local culture while traveling, her seamless transition to beach volleyball, and her hopes for the future of the sport, particularly at the college level. Holly reflects on her experiences representing the USA, the challenges of being an athlete, and the significance of mentorship in sports.

takeaways

• Holly McPeak is a three-time Olympian and a prominent volleyball commentator.
• The evolution of volleyball has led to faster and more dynamic play.
• NIL and the transfer portal have significantly changed the landscape of college sports.
• Women's volleyball is experiencing unprecedented growth and visibility.
• Mentorship is crucial for the development of young athletes and commentators.
• The level of play in professional volleyball is one step above college.
• Holly emphasizes the importance of hard work and dedication in sports.
• The volleyball community is becoming more educated and engaged with the sport.
• There is a need for better representation and quality in sports commentary.
• The future of professional volleyball looks promising with more opportunities for athletes. I always try to get to a good restaurant or a cute local coffee shop.
• Transitioning from indoor to beach was easy for me.
• The intensity of the competition in college beach volleyball is insane.
• I had no money to travel when I started playing beach volleyball.
• Do not let people put limitations on you.
• I think I blacked out during the Olympic podium moment.
• I loved training and working on my weaknesses.
• The future of college beach volleyball is bright with more exposure.
• I want volleyball to win in our country.
• Relationships in sports are incredibly important.

Chapters
00:00
Introduction and Personal Connections

01:16
Holly McPeak's Volleyball Journey

04:28
The Evolution of Volleyball

07:25
NIL and Transfer Portal Dynamics

10:19
The Future of College Sports

13:19
The Growth of Women's Volleyball

16:20
Commentary and Mentorship in Volleyball

25:16
The Rise of Women's Volleyball Awareness

28:22
Bridging the Gap: Connecting Young Athletes with Role Models

31:04
Elevating the Standard: The Future of Volleyball Broadcasting

34:21
Mentorship and Work Ethic in Volleyball

37:13
The Growth of Professional Volleyball in the U.S.

40:18
Transitioning from Indoor to Beach Volleyball

46:14
The Future of Beach Volleyball: Opportunities Ahead

48:23
Growing the Sport of Beach Volleyball

50:18
The Importance of Media Coverage

52:56
Transitioning from Athlete to Broadcaster

58:20
The Emotional Journey of Competing

01:01:21
The Power of Relationships in Sports

01:05:05
Overcoming Limitations and Achieving Dreams

01:07:12
The Future of Volleyball in the U.S.

01:08:17
New Chapter

In this episode, the hosts discuss the relaxed atmosphere of their volleyball podcast, the excitement surrounding recent college volleyball matches, and the electric environment created by fans. They delve into the intensity of college rivalries, the evolution of men's volleyball, and the importance of aggression in the game. The conversation highlights the role of fans in promoting volleyball culture, the diversity of college volleyball experiences, and the impact of coaching on player development. The hosts emphasize the need for community support and the future growth of volleyball, celebrating the sport at all levels. This conversation delves into the growth and opportunities within D3 volleyball, particularly in the Northeast, and compares it to D1 volleyball. The speakers discuss the changing landscape of college recruitment, the impact of the transfer portal, and the increasing strength of youth volleyball programs across the country. They emphasize the importance of finding the right fit for young athletes and the potential for D3 programs to thrive in the current sports environment.
takeaways

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The podcast embraces a relaxed and informal atmosphere.
Recent college volleyball matches have created an electric environment.
Rivalries in college volleyball enhance the excitement of matches.
Men's volleyball has evolved significantly over the years.
Aggression and competitiveness are essential in volleyball.
Fans play a crucial role in promoting volleyball culture.
Diversity in college volleyball experiences enriches the sport.
Coaching quality impacts player development and success.
Community support is vital for the growth of volleyball.
Celebrating volleyball at all levels is important for its future. D3 volleyball is experiencing significant growth, especially in the Northeast.
There are many opportunities for young athletes to play college volleyball.
The transfer portal is changing the dynamics of college sports recruitment.
Youth volleyball programs are stronger than ever, providing more pathways for athletes.
D3 programs can offer competitive environments without the financial pressures of D1.
The landscape of college volleyball is evolving, with more schools and programs emerging.
Finding the right fit for athletes is crucial in their recruitment journey.
The NCAA regulations are under scrutiny and may change in the coming years.
Streaming of D3 volleyball games is becoming more accessible, increasing visibility.
The camaraderie and connections within the volleyball community are invaluable.
Sound Bites
"What are we doing?"
"The growth is amazing."
"There's so much opportunity."
Chapters
00:00
Introduction to the Podcast and Volleyball Excitement
05:40
The Evolution of Volleyball: From Past to Present
11:22
The Importance of Aggression in the Game
17:24
The Future of Volleyball and Building a Stronger Community
22:22
Navigating Internet Challenges
22:52
The Importance of Quality in Podcasting
23:11
Diving into College Volleyball Dynamics
26:53
Understanding the D3 Experience
32:05
The Coaching Landscape in D3 Volleyball
35:36
The Growth of Men's Volleyball Programs
39:30
Regional Differences in D3 Volleyball
44:20
The Future of D3 Volleyball and Opportunities
49:09
Promoting Volleyball and Grassroots Growth
50:52
Navigating the Recruitment Process
51:51
Understanding NAIA and D2 Dynamics
52:49
The Changing Landscape of College Sports
54:32
The Impact of the Transfer Portal
55:38
The Future of College Athletics
57:32
D3 Volleyball and Its Growth
01:01:17
NCAA Regulations and Their Consequences
01:02:52
The Import

In this engaging conversation, UCLA men's volleyball head coach John Hawks shares his journey from player to coach, discussing the challenges and triumphs along the way. He reflects on the growth of men's volleyball, the importance of mentorship, and the evolving role of women in coaching. The discussion highlights the excitement surrounding the upcoming matches and the potential for further growth in the sport.
takeaways
John Hawks emphasizes the importance of building positive relationships in coaching.
The transition to head coach at UCLA has been both overwhelming and rewarding for Hawks.
Hawks believes in the potential for men's volleyball to grow, especially in major conferences.
The role of women in men's volleyball coaching is evolving, with more opportunities arising.
Hawks reflects on the challenges of balancing family life with coaching responsibilities.
The excitement surrounding UCLA's upcoming matches showcases the growth of the sport.
Hawks values the mentorship he received from previous coaches throughout his career.
The dynamics of coaching have changed, requiring adaptability and understanding of players' needs.
Hawks is committed to winning for UCLA while also contributing to the growth of volleyball.
The conversation highlights the camaraderie and community within the volleyball world.
Sound Bites
"I wish I knew the answer to that."
"I think it's just a great product."
"I think that we touched on that."
Chapters
00:00
Introduction and Welcome
02:21
John Hawks' Journey to UCLA
05:14
Transitioning to Head Coach at UCLA
07:37
The Growth of Men's Volleyball
10:23
The Future of Men's Volleyball
13:21
Coaching Experience and Personal Life
16:21
Returning to Coaching After a Break
19:32
The Excitement of Upcoming Matches
22:20
Reflections on Coaching and Relationships
25:09
Family Support and Career Choices
28:11
Closing Thoughts and Connections
31:23
Sibling Rivalry and Athletic Legacy
34:37
Tattoo Tales and Friendship Stories
37:01
Coaching Aspirations and National Team Dreams
38:42
Balancing Coaching and Family Life
41:32
The Role of Assistant Coaches
44:18
Mentorship and Growth in Coaching
45:56
The Evolution of Volleyball
50:08
Diversity in Coaching Staffs
53:19
The Future of Volleyball and Community Growth
57:11
New Chapter