The Pit to Pro Podcast

Episode  #37 - Anna Dunn's Story(00:00 - 01:09) It is hard to describe the first half of this episode in words that do it justice. Anna talks about the hills and valleys she went through during her battle with cancer, her reaction when she found out she needed to get her lower leg amputated, and the terrible side effects of chemotherapy. She shares what, and who, kept her going through those tough times, and the effect someones support can have on your life. (01:09 - End) The second half of the episode we discuss her first few months as a Sitting Volleyball player, the challenges that come with serving, setting, and understanding rotations. We talk about the major differences between Soccer and Volleyball, and Anna shares the lessons she has learned from playing both.All proceeds from the Pit2Pro Merch sales for the month of June will be entirely donated to the Canada's National Womans Sitting Volleyball Team. Go check them out on our website.Check out our website: https://pit2pro.com/Click here to begin your journey to more aces and pain free spiking. Get 50% off using PROMO code: ARMSWING50  https://www.athletewellnessacademy.com/armswingacademySupport the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/ThePit2ProPodcast The Athlete Wellness AcademyGet 50% off using PROMO code: ARMSWING50

This episode is chalk full of information and crazy stories. Expect to learn about the intense Worley household, how to cultivate grit and competitiveness, the problem with most team cultures in professional volleyball. How to find the play style that works best for you, what we can learn from Gage's horrible recruiting trip to Hawaii, and the many differences between the Canadian and American development systems.Check out our website: https://sites.google.com/view/thepit2propodcast/home Click here to begin your journey to more aces and pain free spiking. Get 50% off using PROMO code: ARMSWING50  https://www.athletewellnessacademy.com/armswingacademySupport the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/ThePit2ProPodcast The Athlete Wellness AcademyGet 50% off using PROMO code: ARMSWING50

In this episode we hear from Brodie on the ups and downs of his Olympic journey and what he had to sacrifice in order to get there. We discuss some tips on how to be an effective highball spiker, as well as lessons from the weight room. We reminiscence on our national championship season, and dive into what it takes to perform day after day in the Italian League.Check out our website: https://sites.google.com/view/thepit2propodcast/home Click here to begin your journey to more aces and pain free spiking. Get 50% off using PROMO code: ARMSWING50  https://www.athletewellnessacademy.com/armswingacademySupport the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/ThePit2ProPodcast Support the show

In this episode the boys discuss what they learned from their very different seasons; Jesse playing Pro in France, Mathias Assistant Coaching at TWU, and Oog red-shirting at the UofS. We discuss the level of preparation needed in order to play at a high level, the role of a coach in player development, and the ability to learn and reflect outside of a volleyball context. We also share a plethora of insights, lessons, and mistakes from the 2024/25 season.Check out our website: https://sites.google.com/view/thepit2propodcast/home Click here to begin your journey to more aces and pain free spiking. Get 50% off using PROMO code: ARMSWING50  https://www.athletewellnessacademy.com/armswingacademySupport the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/ThePit2ProPodcast The Athlete Wellness AcademyGet 50% off using PROMO code: ARMSWING50

In this episode we talk about the different ways gratitude can help with performance, how the nervous system responds in high pressure moments, and how to get the most out of your current situation. And of course we talk all about setting; tactics, ideas, tips, and queues to help any level setter reach their full potential. Check out our website: https://sites.google.com/view/thepit2propodcast/home Click here to begin your journey to more aces and pain free spiking. Get 50% off using PROMO code: ARMSWING50  https://www.athletewellnessacademy.com/armswingacademySupport the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/ThePit2ProPodcast The Athlete Wellness AcademyGet 50% off using PROMO code: ARMSWING50

In this episode we talk about conflict within teams, when to implement new skills, how to lead when things aren't going your way and how to help others find motivation. Mathias shares his belief in Power Poses and how to exude confidence even when things aren't going well. We answer some questions about the hardest transitions from club to university, and university to pro, as well as how to best prepare yourself for a tryout. Check out our website: https://sites.google.com/view/thepit2propodcast/home Click here to begin your journey to more aces and pain free spiking. Get 50% off using PROMO code: ARMSWING50  https://www.athletewellnessacademy.com/armswingacademySupport the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/ThePit2ProPodcast The Athlete Wellness AcademyGet 50% off using PROMO code: ARMSWING50

In this refreshing episode we talk about radical honesty, how to lead a team through a broken culture, and the downside of overanalysis. Maar shares his reasoning for retiring from the national team, why experiencing the full spectrum of human emotion is a good thing, and how he turned one of his greatest defeats into one of his proudest moments. Above all, it is evident from the first minute of this episode to the last, that Maar has a strong desire to help the next generation of Volleyballers, and will do anything to give back and share his experiences. Check out our website: https://sites.google.com/view/thepit2propodcast/home Support the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/ThePit2ProPodcast The Athlete Wellness AcademyGet 50% off using PROMO code: ARMSWING50

In this episode we discuss Nick's extensive career and what he has learned along the way. We talk about serving - one of Nick's specialties - how to separate your identity from your sport, and how to be a leader without being a boss. We talk about why extra reps aren't always a good idea, the best way to learn new skills, and he shares some advice to those struggling with mental health.Support the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/ThePit2ProPodcast The Athlete Wellness AcademyGet 50% off using PROMO code: ARMSWING50

In this episode we reminisce on some of our favorite guests, stories, quotes, and moments from the 2024 Podcast Season. We talk about the 20 mile march, preventing regret, empathetic environments, and everything in between.The Athlete Wellness AcademyGet 50% off using PROMO code: ARMSWING50

In this episode we are joined by our very own Jesse Elser. We learn why Jesse was voted captain of his very first pro team, what most people get wrong about relationship building, how important rapport is to a successful career, and how different paths can lead to the same destination. We discuss the importance of finding your own authentic performance state and how to elevate that performance state in those around you.The Athlete Wellness AcademyGet 50% off using PROMO code: ARMSWING50

In this episode we dig into the incredibly complex mind of Mathias Elser, asking him the questions even we as brothers have been itching to ask for the past twenty years. We talk about flow state, the double edge sword of leadership, and the guts it takes to have tough conversations. Mathias shares his thoughts on the power of learning from the past, and the choices you have - even if you don't think you have a choice.The Athlete Wellness AcademyBegin your journey to pain free spiking, more aces, and personalized video analysis with AWA

In this episode we talk to Oog and uncover the emotional toll it took to transfer schools, how having balance in your life is a key factor to achieve happiness and why farming is the greatest occupation in the world. We discuss the value of making decisions with your own interest in mind and the intricacy of personality traits and how different criticism and feedback can be interpreted depending on the character traits you possess. The Athlete Wellness AcademyBegin your journey to pain free spiking, more aces, and personalized video analysis with AWA

In this humorous and informative episode with Dr. Abe Avender, we discuss the arguments for and against stretching, what sets high performers apart from good performers, and the role, if any, for anti-inflammatory drugs in high level sport. We discuss the intricacy of volleyball training, the concussion epidemic in volleyball, and the power of sleep.The Athlete Wellness AcademyBegin your journey to pain free spiking, more aces, and personalized video analysis with AWA

In this episode we answer a bunch more questions and get into some really cool topics concerning performing under pressure, meal prep for high performance athletes, and the power and structure of journaling. We discuss what we would tell our younger selves, and how being patient, curious, and authentic, can be hugely beneficial to success.The Athlete Wellness AcademyBegin your journey to pain free spiking, more aces, and personalized video analysis with AWA

In this episode with Brie O'Reilly we discuss some of Ben Josephson's many philosophies, how playing different positions helps overall development and why Brie couldn't say no to her contract in Brazil. She discusses the crazy emotions that came during her year with Athlete Unlimited, how tough conversations are always worth it, and the bright future of the Canadian Woman's National Team.The Athlete Wellness AcademyBegin your journey to pain free spiking, more aces, and personalized video analysis with AWA

In this episode we take a deep dive into what it takes to chase your dreams. Kofi discusses the power of learning from your failures, learning from your teammates, and the tool of reframing. We talk about how easy it is to be swept up in the lifestyle of a professional artist, how he has learned to balance two promising careers and the consequences of taking 4 years off from volleyball. Oh, we also heard about Kofi's conversation with Lebron James in a hotel elevator. The Athlete Wellness AcademyBegin your journey to pain free spiking, more aces, and personalized video analysis with AWA

In this episode we discuss the trials of being a new coach, the power of the mind and how to promote curiosity, as well as why Canada is behind other nations in terms of skill development. We speak about the dichotomy of how to deal with what matters and believing that it doesn't matter, and the side businesses within recovery. We discuss the amazing opportunity of having a family overseas as well as the benefit of immersing yourself in other cultures.The Athlete Wellness AcademyBegin your journey to pain free spiking, more aces, and personalized video analysis with AWA

In this episode we are joined by another two-time Olympian. Lucas talks about his mental state after attending two olympics, the sacrifices his family had to make to help him succeed, and the role that fun has in long term success. He breaks down why he loves playing for the National Team more than playing overseas, how volleyball has changed over his 10 year professional career, and why blocking is such a difficult skill.The Athlete Wellness AcademyBegin your journey to pain free spiking, more aces, and personalized video analysis with AWA

In this episode we are joined by Eric Loeppky. Eric dives into his near career ending sickness, the pressure and sacrifices it takes to be great, and how he ended up playing for one of the most elite clubs in the world. We discuss the power of using offspeed shots, where the lefty tip came from, and what goes through his mind when he's attacking at the highest level. We talk about the value in rest, reevaluation, and detachment and how that helps him perform on some of the biggest stages in the world.The Athlete Wellness AcademyBegin your journey to pain free spiking, more aces, and personalized video analysis with AWA

In this episode we are joined by Kevin Tillie. Kevin is a world class receiver and a back to back Olympic Gold Medalist. He shares how his volleyball journey brought him to Canada, how many people tried to change his technique along the way, and his current role in the French National Team gym. We discuss what sets the French team apart from the rest of the world, the difficulty of receiving a hybrid serve, and how important having fun and being creative is to his success.The Athlete Wellness AcademyBegin your journey to pain free spiking, more aces, and personalized video analysis with AWA

In this episode we discuss the different ways you can “weaponize” your serve to gain an edge over your opponents. We reminisce about some of our best serving memories and what we were feeling, seeing and doing in those moments. Serving is a difficult and crucially important skill and we hope the tips and tricks we provide in this episode can help you become more efficient and consistent servers.Click here to begin your journey to more aces and pain free spiking: https://coach.everfit.io/package/UT100315

In this episode with Brett Walsh – AN OLYMPIAN –  we talk about all things setting. Brett's ability to be a positive influence whether he is on the court or not helped him, through many ups and downs in his career, earn a spot in the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. We talk about growing up with Dads who played on the national team, what separates great setters from good setters, and how to instill patience in yourself and those around you. We discuss the benefits of track and field training for aspiring setters, whether or not focusing on tactics at a young age is beneficial, and everything in between.

In this question episode we discuss the power of the birth order and the psychology of getting yourself out of a rut. We talk about the gap between Team Canada and Team France during the Olympics and how big a role a single error can play in a team's success. Lastly, we emphasize the importance of learning from those bad games - or even the games you were on the bench - and how that perspective can greatly change the trajectory of your career.

In this episode we use a plethora of Ben Josephson quotes about golf and explain how they relate to high level volleyball performance. We talk about the power of efficiency, extension, and acceleration when performing a skill and we debate the use of boxes in a practice. 

In this episode, our longtime friend, teammate, and roommate, Jackson Howe joins us as we talk about adding value to the team as an undersized middle, playing at the next level and the importance of the setter-middle relationship. We reminisce about our club days, the huge benefit of having friends overseas with you, and the importance of finding the playstyle that best suits your abilities and physical attributes.

In this episode Mathias and Jesse discuss some of their favorite ideas and quotes that have helped them in various ways throughout their career – on and off the court. We discuss how these ideas help us deal with failure, practice gratitude, connect with others, and approach fear.

In this episode we are joined by our Dad, Tom Elser, for a special Fathers Day Edition of the Pit to Pro Podcast. Our Dad had a lengthy career consisting of many years with the National Team, a National Championship with the University of Calgary Dinos, a year of professional ball in Italy, and on various masters teams -- playing well into his 50's. We discuss topics ranging from the parents role in the recruiting process, the best memories of his career, the role of volleyball in our family, and the evolution of the game of volleyball.

In this episode we talk about the role of humility and empathy in a leadership position. We further discuss what leadership means to us, how we have experienced great leadership, and we highlight some of the important leaders in our life and the amazing individual qualities each one brings to a team or a friendship.

Our first ever episode where all three of us are in the same room!!!! Listen to our second "Question and Answer" episode where we answer the remainder of your pressing question.2:08 If y'all could do something other than volleyball as a career what would you do? Oog it has to be something other than a rancher. 3:48 Jesse, why did you decide to sign with de Sète?5:44 What was the Elser boys least favorite subject in high school?7:31 What are the biggest aspects of a GOOD setter?9:38 What are your guys' opinion on the challenge system?13:06 Did you guys ever play any other organized sports growing up?16:06 How did you guys get stronger and improve arm swing, jump etc? Was it gym or something else or just maturity?19:42 What was your training schedule like comparing club to university to pro?25:06 How do you guys deal with being “burnt out” or “tired of volleyball” especially when you're loving it but part of yourself is getting bored of it or is unsatisfied with the lack of progress you're making. How do you dig yourself out of those moments and get back on track and love the sport even more?30:37 How were you put in touch with your agents?33:39 What is your favourite memory from the Canuck Dino clubdays, relating exclusively to off court memories?37:06 What was the biggest thing you took from being coachedby Ben Josephson 40:25 Do you guys have a volleyball bucket-list?44:08 Jesse, how did you come back from your low back injury? Do you have residual effects (physical or mental)? 49:59 For someone who wants to play USport what is the best way to go about achieving that goal?

In this episode with our first guest ever, Nick Del Bianco, we discuss a number of helpful tips, tricks, and strategies to stay healthy, play longer, lift heavier, sleep better, and even hit harder. Nick specializes in athlete holistic wellness with an emphasis on longevity and availability. 

The goal of this episode is to continue to do our part in breaking the stigma around mental health – especially in athletes. We wanted to share our journey with mental health, how it has affected us, and how to create a safe space for those important people around you.

In this episode we discuss tips and tricks on how to stay present in stressful situations, how to reset after errors, and how to deal with nerves. We also discuss the power of gratitude and the role that willpower plays in performance.

We got an overwhelming number of questions so THANK YOU!!! We promise we will answer all of them. If we don't answer it in this episode that means we are using your question to shape the conversation of future episodes. Stay tuned.1:38 How do you stop comparing yourself to others around you/on your own team?7:08 Do you guys ever compare yourself to each other? Or how do you manage to not compare yourself?9:38 What athlete have you played with that would be the best/ swaggiest men's league guy?11:26 How do you get the “swoosh/checkmark” back when you feel you've plateaued?14:36 Who's the better basketball player between you guys?!15:31 If you were on death row, what would your final meal be?16:58 17U boys team working on vision of the block and decision making on offense. What training was most successful to develop this skill for each of you, and what goes through your head between reception and attack?  22:46 What was the mindset that's instilled in you all that separates you guys from other volleyball family's? How come all of you are so successful but other brothers/sisters aren't, can you distill what that is? 26:28 What was it like playing with your brother(s)? Was there a different dynamic in your “family” or “teammate” relationship? 32:43 My highschool team is struggling to find a groove and win games. We are all pretty decent individually and have good team chemistry but we find ourselves in ruts where we can't pass, set or hit well against teams that are definitely not as good as we are. I was wondering if any of you guys can relate or if you guys had advice for getting out of situations like these. 37:13 What is the driving force to keep playing? The love of the game? The grind? The money/monetary benefits? The awards? Because it's what you know?41:25 Mathias, would you like to play in Polish PlusLiga? Have you had any offers from this league so far?42:12 Jesse, How do you feel about being such a model and someone we look up to, especially for younger people and the new generation of volleyball players.44:00 What was it like to play setter and outside. How do you handle the transition and which position do you like playing more?46:54  Mathias, how are you so good at setting, passing, and hitting. You're just as a good of a setter as a hitter. I know players that can play 2 positions but NOT at YOUR level. Especially at the national level. How do you do that? 48:08 Considering that all three of you guys were from the same high school, and I think Jackson Howe too. Did y'all destroy teams so easily? And did you guys win provincials?46:54  Mathias, how are you so good at setting, passing, and hitting. You're just as a good of a setter as a hitter. I know players that can play 2 positions but NOT at YOUR level. Especially at the national level. How do you do that? 50:13 To me, you guys had the GREATEST college men's volleyball team of all time in the 2021-2022 season. Do you guys think that year you guys were the greatest Mens college volleyball team to ever assemble? And if you guys had one more season together with that team, would you guys win the Canada West Championship, the U Sports Championship, or both?53:44 Jesse, being that you're 6'9, would you ever play middle? 

In this episode we talk all about teammates, accountability, and love languages. We discuss the difference between being a friend and a teammate, how to lead by example, and attempt to tackle the question of how to make those around you better.

In this episode we talk about getting recruited, how to stand out, moving away from home, and the individuality of each program. We also discuss how to deal with the stress of choosing a post-secondary institution and best practices for reaching out and building connections with coaches.

In our second episode, we talk about learning and habits. We explore two different schools of thought – how to stress your mind and body just the right amount to ensure maximum success – and the science behind creating a new habit. 

In our first episode, we talk all-things goal setting. How to achieve long term goals and how to productively and effectively stay on track as a team throughout the course of long and bumpy seasons.