

Big DINK Energy Pickleball & Life Podcast
With a blend of court-side banter, unfiltered humor, and off-the-court conversations about pickleball, life, relationships, and everything in between, Big Dink Energy is the go-to pickleball podcast for real players, rec league regulars, and anyone who loves the sport but doesn’t take it (or themselves) too seriously.
This weekly podcast is half insight, half nonsense, and 100% entertaining. From pickleball news and gear talk to rule rants, relationship hot takes, and hilarious guest interviews, you'll laugh, nod, and maybe even get inspired to grab a paddle.
Whether you’re a casual pickleball player, a pickle-curious beginner, or just here for the comedy—Big Dink Energy brings the real talk, ridiculous debates, and relatable chaos that make pickleball culture so addicting.
So grab your headphones, embrace the dink, and let’s have some fun.
Big Dink Energy Podcast: Where pickleball meets real life.
Support the show as low as $3/month: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2452835/supporters/new
Instagram: @bigdinkenergypodcast
Website: www.bdepodcast.com
Facebook: Big Dink Energy Podcast
Contributors
Guests

Ellie Santra | Singer
Ellie Santra is a pickleball player, content creator, and singer-songwriter bringing bold energy, sharp wit, and serious talent to the court and the stage. From viral volleys to original music, Ellie is redefining what it means to be a modern athlete and multi-hyphenate creative in the world of pickleball.
Her breakout single, “Pickleback”, is a cheeky anthem for pickleball lovers everywhere—blending country charm, clever lyrics, and a whole lotta personality. Whether she’s serving heat or dropping hooks, Ellie’s mission is simple: make people smile, move, and feel part of something bigger.
📸 Instagram: @elliesantra
🎶 Watch “Pickleback”: YouTube

James Heldridge | Sideout Coffee
James is the founder of Side Out Coffee, the first specialty coffee brand dedicated to the pickleball community. A former pro World of Warcraft player turned entrepreneur, James traded in late-night gaming for early-morning espresso shots and endless hours on the pickleball court. His passion for coffee and pickleball collided, leading him to create Side Out Coffee, a brand that fuels players both on and off the court with small-batch roasted beans, instant espresso, and energy mixes.
When he’s not perfecting the golden pickle latte or pulling up to tournaments with his mobile café, James is out there dinking, competing, and growing a community that’s as caffeinated as it is competitive.
☕🏓 Get your pickleball fix & a fresh brew at sideoutcoffee.com
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Christine Hawkes | Buffalo Pickleball Club
Buffalo Pickleball Club is a free, community-driven organization dedicated to making the sport of pickleball accessible and welcoming to players of all skill levels.
Based in Buffalo, NY, the club hosts drop-in recreational play sessions every Saturday from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at PickFit Buffalo (225 Fire Tower Dr., Tonawanda, NY 14150) for a $10 participation fee.
With a mission to grow the game across Buffalo and Western New York, the club encourages community engagement, connection, and the introduction of new players to the sport.
Follow Us & Stay Connected:
📸 Instagram: @buffalopickleballclub
Email: buffalopickleballclub@gmail.com
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Cody & Jerry from Smash Park
Smash Park Enterprises is a premier entertainment brand bringing food, fun, and friendly competition to communities across multiple locations. Known for its high-energy atmosphere, Smash Park combines pickleball, arcade games, axe throwing, cornhole, darts, and more, creating the ultimate indoor and outdoor entertainment experience for all ages.
Locations:
📍 West Des Moines, IA
📍 Additional locations nationwide (Check smashpark.com for details!)
Follow Us & Stay Connected:
📸 Instagram: @smashparkdm
📘 Facebook: Smash Park Des Moines
📧 Email: wdm@smashpark.com
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Cody Childers | Dink N Donuts
He’s been dinking, slamming, and serving heat for 8+ years—and took first place in his very first tournament (no big deal, just the 4.0 singles division). Based in North Idaho, Cody Childers lives for the grind, the growth, and the post-game donut.
From paddle reviews to match-day mindset, Cody’s here to share real tips, epic fails, and snack-fueled wisdom with the pickleball community. Whether you're chasing medals or chasing carbs, Cody's the kind of player you want in your feed—and maybe even on your court (if you can handle the smoke).
Smash. Snack. Repeat.
Follow Us & Stay Connected:
📸 Instagram: @dink_n_donuts
📧 Email: dinkndonut@gmail.com
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Dawna Strouse | Dink Date App
Dink Date is the first-ever dating app built for pickleball lovers—because the best relationships start with a good rally. Whether you're single and ready to serve or looking for someone who gets your obsession with court shoes and third-shot drops, Dink Date is here to help you find your perfect match through the sport you love.
Created by and for pickleballers, Dink Date combines your love of play with genuine connection. From meet-cute moments to match points, we believe chemistry is better when it starts with a dink.
What We’re About:
💘 A dating app for pickleball lovers
🎾 Connecting through shared play & passion
📍 Launching soon—on and off the court!
Follow Us & Stay in the Loop:
📸 Instagram: @dink.date
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John Solema | AZ Pickleball Space
Pickleball Space Arizona - Contact
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Jonathan Beasley |The Glove Pickleball
The Glove Pickleball is led by J.S. Beasley, the Pickleball Director at YMCA Chesapeake, who is certified by both the Professional Pickleball Registry (PPR) and the International Pickleball Teaching Professional Association (IPTPA).
With a passion for growing the sport, Beasley is actively involved in coaching, organizing events, and sharing insights through his platform.
Follow Us & Stay Connected:
📸 Instagram: @theglove_pb
📧 Email: jonsbeasley@hotmail.com
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Kim Copland | TX HOP CLUB
With 40 years of entrepreneurial grit under her belt, Kim Copeland is the powerhouse behind TX HOP Club (Texas House of Pickleball)—Granbury’s premier indoor pickleball destination. She’s blending business savvy with serious paddle passion, creating a space where players of all levels feel like pros.
TX HOP isn’t just eight climate-controlled, pro-cushioned courts—it’s a full-blown community hub. From leagues and lessons to youth programs and tournaments, Kim’s vision is about more than gameplay—it’s about connection, competition, and having a damn good time.
Follow & Connect:
📸 Instagram: @txhopclub
📘 Facebook: TX Hop Club
📍 1109 Weatherford Hwy, Granbury, TX 76048
🌐 Website: visitgranbury.com
📞 (682) 936-2084
📧 Kim@txhopclub.com
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Lisa Spinale | Marblehead Pickleball
Marblehead Pickleball is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and expanding the sport of pickleball in the Marblehead, Massachusetts community. By providing resources for players of all skill levels, Marblehead Pickleball supports local courts, coaching, clubs, and events, ensuring that both new and experienced players can enjoy and grow in the sport.
In June 2024, Marblehead Pickleball launched the town’s first official pickleball league, bringing together 80 players and fostering a strong sense of community through friendly competition and social connection.
Follow Us & Stay Connected:
📸 Instagram: @marbleheadpickleball
📘 Facebook: Marblehead Pickleball
📧 Email: spin317@aol.com
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Michelle Taylor, LPCC | The Dink Shrink
The Dink Shrink is your courtside counselor, mental game guru, and go-to source for turning pickleball pressure into performance. Blending sports psychology with paddle-side wisdom, The Dink Shrink helps players of all levels master the mental side of the game—because confidence, clarity, and calm win championships.
Whether you're battling nerves, building focus, or just trying not to rage-quit mid-match, The Dink Shrink offers relatable, practical tools for unlocking your best self on and off the court.
Follow & Level Up:
📸 Instagram: @thedinkshrink
📧 Contact: michelletaylorlpcc@perfectlyimperfectly.com
Train your brain. Shrink the stress. Win the rally.
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Riley Palmer "Smiley Riley"
Smiley Riley Pickleball is dedicated to elevating players' skills and fostering a global community of passionate pickleball enthusiasts. Led by Riley Palmer, affectionately known as “Smiley Riley,” a certified pickleball teaching professional, coach, and USAPA ambassador, Smiley Riley Pickleball offers personalized coaching, exclusive pickleball vacations that blend sport and adventure, and engaging content across various social media platforms.
With a mission to make every session fun, energetic, and confidence-boosting, Smiley Riley ensures players leave the court with a smile—whether they’re refining their skills, competing, or simply enjoying the game.
Follow Us & Stay Connected:
📸 Instagram: @smileyrileypickleball
📘 Facebook: Smiley Riley Pickleball
🎵 TikTok: @smileyrileypickleball
📧 Email: smileyrileypickleball@yahoo.com

Roger Caneda | Roger Pickleball
Roger Pickleball is a competitive pickleball player recognized for sharing tournament highlights, personal achievements, and behind-the-scenes moments from his pickleball journey. His Instagram features exciting wins—including a recent gold medal at the PPA Tour Mesa Open—and showcases brand partnerships with companies like @diademsports.
Through his platform, Roger connects with fellow players, celebrates milestones, and actively promotes the sport he’s passionate about.
Follow Us & Stay Connected:
📸 Instagram: @rogerpickleball
📧 Email: rogergamingla@gmail.com
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Shawn Paul | Shawn Paul Pickleball
Shawn Paul is a dedicated pickleball enthusiast and the Pickleball Coordinator at the North Royalton Ohio YMCA Pickleball Center. With over a decade of experience in the sport, he has become a passionate advocate for pickleball, actively engaging in tournaments, coaching, and community-building efforts. Through his social media platforms, Shawn shares insights, tips, and updates on pickleball events, helping to grow the sport both locally and nationally. Whether on the court or online, his enthusiasm for pickleball is contagious, making him a key figure in the community.
🔗 Connect with Shawn Paul
📸 Instagram: @sppickleballer
📘 Facebook: Shawn Paul Pickleball
📧 Email: sppickleballer@yahoo.com
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Timothy Schnupp | The PutAway
Timothy Schnupp is the founder of The PutAway, Maryland’s premier indoor pickleball facility in Millersville. With a passion for community and competition, Tim created The PutAway as a top-tier space for players of all levels to grow their game and connect through pickleball.
Now open 24/7, The PutAway offers private court bookings, leagues, tournaments, and a social vibe that makes it more than just a facility—it’s Maryland’s home for pickleball. Whether you’re chasing your first dink or dominating in tournaments, Tim’s vision ensures there’s always a place (and time) to play.
📍 Millersville, MD
📸 @playputawaypickleball
📧 tim@playputawaypickleball.com
Tommy Flaim | Silly Pickles
Silly Pickles is a pickleball lifestyle brand serving up style, humor, and serious vibes for players who love the game—but love having fun even more. Founded by entrepreneur and community builder Tommy Flaim, Silly Pickles is about turning heads on and off the court with apparel, gear, and content that keeps things playful.
Whether you’re a first-time dinker or a seasoned slammer, there’s a place for you in the Silly Pickles crew. Let’s rally, laugh, and look good doing it.
About Our Founder:
Tommy Flaim is a lifelong entrepreneur, brand builder, and the original Silly Pickle. With experience scaling successful startups and a love for turning ideas into movements, Tommy launched Silly Pickles to bring more joy, community, and creativity to the pickleball world.

Trisha Shelley | The Picklehood
Trisha Shelley is the founder of The Picklehood, a pickleball-inspired apparel brand born from her love of community, connection, and a little plastic ball.
After losing herself in the early years of motherhood, Trisha rediscovered her confidence and creativity through pickleball — and turned that passion into a brand that celebrates the spirit, humor, and joy of the game.
With early mornings, a few tournament tees, and a lot of heart, she built The Picklehood to bring players together on and off the courts. Today, she’s on a mission to keep the good vibes rolling, one pickleball lover at a time.
Click the link to see the amazing merch and get 20% off:
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Wesley Hanson | WesDawg
WesDawg Pickleball is all about bringing big energy, bold plays, and unmatched vibes to courts across the country. Known for a high-impact playing style and a passion for building community, WesDawg blends intense competition with off-court charisma, making pickleball more than a sport—it’s a lifestyle.
Whether he’s crushing dinks, hyping up the crowd, or dropping hot takes online, WesDawg represents the next wave of pickleball culture—one that’s raw, real, and relentlessly fun. From tournaments and training to collabs and courtside antics, WesDawg is here to entertain, inspire, and raise the game.
Follow & Get in the Mix:
📸 Instagram: @wesdawg_pb
💬 DM for collabs, clinics, and chaos
🎾 #DawgOnCourt
📧 Email: wesley.hanson0@gmail.com