Welcome to GRIT, the ultimate beach volleyball podcast hosted by Victoria Dennis. Each episode brings you the latest news, breaking stories, and in-depth conversations with top athletes from the AVP, Beach Volleyball World Tour, NCAA, and leading professional coaches worldwide. If you’re passionat
Derek Bradford is betting on himself and going all in on beach volleyball. The rising Team USA athlete joins GRIT to share his journey from leaving the University of Hawai‘i men’s indoor volleyball program after his freshman year to pursuing a professional career on the sand. That decision is already paying off. Derek has qualified for and competed in the AVP League this season while also testing himself internationally on the FIVB Beach Pro Tour, including Elite16 competition. In this epi...
Torrey Van Winden joins GRIT to share her unconventional path back to professional beach volleyball. After stepping away from the sport and spending five years in the corporate world, Torrey is back on the sand and making her name known on the World Tour as a USA Volleyball athlete. Torrey talks about how her time in the corporate world gave her a completely new perspective on being a professional athlete, the realities of competing and making a living on the World Tour, and what life actua...
UCLA Beach Volleyball Head Coach Jenny Johnson Jordan joins GRIT after leading the Bruins to the 2026 National Championship. Jenny takes us inside UCLA’s championship run, her approach to recruiting and building a winning culture, and the lessons she’s carried from her own career as an Olympian and elite athlete. We also talk about the powerful influence of family on her life and career. Jenny’s father, Rafer Johnson, was one of the greatest athletes of his generation - winning Olympic gold...
On this episode of GRIT, Victoria sits down with professional athlete and entrepreneur Falyn Fonoimoana, founder of Mana Wellness and Mana Marketing. Falyn shares how Mana Wellness provides one-on-one coaching supported by a team of professionals who help clients navigate health and wellness advocacy, gut health, peptide research, and medically guided care. She also explains how Mana Marketing helps creators grow their brands, build sustainable opportunities, and create abundance through mon...
In this episode of GRIT, Victoria sits down with Chris Parish, founder of Poney, to discuss how the platform is helping coaches and instructors simplify scheduling, payments, and client communication. **Stop chasing Venmos. Stop juggling texts. Just coach.** Built for the instructor, not the studio, Poney brings calendars, bookings, and payments together in one easy-to-use platform. Coaches can share one link with clients—no app to download and no account to create. Poney syncs with your p...
GRIT went on location to Mesa, Arizona, for the p1440 Elite Development Summit, where athletes, coaches, and industry leaders came together to help shape the future of beach volleyball. Hosted by Victoria Dennis, this episode takes you inside one of the premier development events in the sport. Victoria sat down with p1440 coaches and athletes to learn what makes the program unique and how it's helping develop the next generation of beach volleyball players both on and off the sand. Beyond t...
The 2026 NCAA Beach Volleyball Championship is HERE and we’re breaking down everything you need to know. From automatic bids to at-large selections, who’s in the field and how they got there, we’ve got you covered. We dive into tournament structure, key matchups, and what to expect as the bracket unfolds including an early must-watch showdown: a Round 1 rematch of last year’s national championship that could shake up the entire tournament. Who’s built for a title run? Who’s on upset alert? ...
On this episode of GRIT, Victoria sits down with Kamila Tan—2026 AVP Austin Champion, Team USA beach volleyball athlete, and licensed mental health therapist—for a powerful and deeply personal conversation. Kamila opens up about her journey battling an eating disorder while competing in Division I beach volleyball at UCLA, the challenges of relapse, and what it took to recover—twice. She shares how her experiences shaped her path beyond the court, leading her to earn two master’s degrees and...
On this episode of GRIT, Victoria breaks down the latest from NCAA Beach Volleyball, highlighting one of the most competitive weekends of the season. From South Carolina and Stetson splitting two intense 3–2 duals, to Texas heating up with a 7-match win streak and dominant performances against ranked opponents, the race is tightening. Plus, a look at South Florida’s impressive first season and why they’re a program to watch moving forward. With parity rising across the NCAA, every match is st...
On this episode of GRIT, Victoria sits down with Julia Donlin to dive into a powerful story of resilience, faith, and elite competition. Julia opens up about her journey recovering from a severe concussion in college and how that experience reshaped her perspective both on and off the court. She shares how leaning into her faith has guided her path through challenges, growth, and success in beach volleyball. The conversation also highlights her breakthrough moments—including winning the Manh...
On this episode of GRIT, we break down the latest storylines from NCAA Beach Volleyball as the season heats up. Victoria dives into the top-ranked programs including Stanford, UCLA, Cal Poly SLO, and USC, analyzing what’s driving their success and how they’ve positioned themselves in the national rankings. We also take a closer look at why LMU and Florida State continue to be some of the most productive programs in the country, from lineup depth to key statistical advantages. The episode bre...
On this episode of GRIT, we sit down with newly formed USA Beach Volleyball and AVP duo Molly Shaw and Toni Rodriguez. Molly dives into her 2025 season on the World Tour, how her partnership with Toni came together, and what makes their vision for 2026 so exciting. Toni opens up about her injury recovery in 2025, the lessons it taught her, and how it’s shaping her mindset as she returns to the sand. We also break down the differences between the Beach Pro Tour and the AVP, and get into the ...
GRIT sits down with Olympic gold medalist and legendary volleyball mind Rich Lambourne for a full World Champs deep dive. Originally recorded before the tournament, this episode is packed with timeless insight on elite volleyball strategy, offensive and defensive systems, team rankings, and how the world’s best squads match up on paper. Rich breaks down: - How top teams are structured and why certain pairings thrive - Offensive tendencies, serving strategy, and transition philosophy - Def...
GRIT Beach Volleyball hits the Volleyball World Beach Pro Tour World Champs with special guest Kyle Friend! In this episode, Kyle breaks down everything you need to know heading into the biggest tournament in the sport, and why World Champs is arguably tougher than the Olympic Games. We dive into: Major storylines shaping this year’s field Teams to watch — the duos peaking at the perfect time Potential upsets you should absolutely have on your radar Why World Champs is the hardest test beac...
SLUNKS is back on GRIT with something spooky and exclusive! Founder Chris Reams and the SLUNKS crew stop by to reveal their brand-new Halloween short and shirt — and trust us, these are fire. We dive into a hilarious “This or That: Slunks Edition” game, share behind-the-scenes stories, and even get a few top-secret hints about what’s next for the brand Don’t miss the laughs, the fits, and the vibes. Watch till the end for exclusive drops and insider SLUNKS secrets! #GRITPodcast #SLUNKS ...
In this episode, we sit down with 10-time AVP Champion Trevor Crabb to talk all things volleyball and beyond: 🏐 His new partnership with The G.O.A.T. Phil Dalhausser 🏐 What it’s like competing in the new AVP League format 🏐 His unique relationship with his brother, Taylor Crabb—both as competitors and now as partners on the international stage 🏐 What’s ahead as the Crabb brothers reunite for the Newport Beach Elite 16 and beyond Whether you’re an AVP die-hard or just love stories of grit and...
Victoria breaks down all the stats and storylines heading into the AVP League Championship in Chicago. From seeding implications to winning percentages, she digs into the nitty-gritty details that could shape the outcome; sharing the numbers behind the match ups. Don’t forget to like and subscribe—it truly helps GRIT push volleyball content to the top! Hosted by Victoria Dennis, Grit brings you the latest beach volleyball world news, highlights from USAV/AAU Junior Nationals, and exclusive ...
This year’s Manhattan Beach Open—often dubbed “the Wimbledon of Beach Volleyball”—was truly next level. In this episode, Victoria breaks down everything you might’ve missed: the jaw-dropping upsets, surprising stats, betting odds, and exactly how the top teams got it done. From sand to strategy, she’s covering all the angles and giving you the inside scoop on one of the sport’s most iconic tournaments. Don’t miss this deep dive into beach volleyball’s biggest stage. Hosted by Victoria Dennis,...
In this episode, Victoria sit's down with Mike Griffin, founder of Bad Boys Open Volleyball Events, to talk all things grass volleyball. Mike dives into the details behind the OC Crown, a premier grass tournament in Huntington Beach, and shares what it takes to direct massive events like the Seaside Open, featuring over 200 courts. From logistics to community building, Mike explains what makes his tournaments stand out—and how he's helping bring the grass volleyball movement to the West Coast...
Victoria breaks down the AVP League with expert insight into current stats, how they’re impacting team rankings, and what fans can expect in the second half of the season. Don’t miss this deep dive into standout performances, shifting dynamics, and key matchups to watch as the competition heats up. Hosted by Victoria Dennis and Meg Burgdorf, Grit brings you the latest beach volleyball world news, highlights from USAV/AAU Junior Nationals, and exclusive updates from the FIVB and AVP tours. Fr...
James Shaw and Chaim Schalk have punched their ticket to the AVP League, representing the Miami Mayhem. In this episode, they break down how they qualified, share their thoughts on the league’s new team-based format, and reveal why they believe Miami is primed to dominate this season. Don’t miss this inside look at two of the sport’s fiercest competitors and their path to AVP glory. Hosted by Victoria Dennis and Meg Burgdorf, Grit brings you the latest beach volleyball world news, highlights...
Why Everyone's Ditching Group Chats for This New App. PONEY is the easiest way to hang out in real life. No more endless group texts or chaotic chats — just effortless planning with friends. Whether it’s beach volleyball, pickleball, beers, your kid’s soccer game, or a big weekend out, Poney makes scheduling simple. Social media became more media than social. Poney brings the real-life fun back, The Scheduling App That Gets You Off Your Phone and Out With Friends. Hosted by Victoria Dennis ...
Corrine Quiggle & Megan Rice Qualify for AVP League 2025! | Behind the Grind, Strategy & What’s Next 🌍🏐 In this episode, beach volleyball pros Corrine Quiggle and Megan Rice dive into their journey to qualifying for the AVP League 2025! 💥 They break down how they targeted the shorter qualifier, adapted to recent game changes, and the mindset it took to make the cut. They also talk about the impact of their coach Betsi Flint, what it’s like training under a former AVP star, and how t...
Hagen Smith and Logan Webber battle through the grueling single-day AVP qualifier to secure their spot in the AVP League—and they’re here to break it all down! In this episode, the duo shares how they prepared for the intense, win-or-go-home format and the tactical adjustments they’ve made for the shorter matches. Hagen opens up about the guidance he receives from his legendary father, Sinjin Smith, while Logan reflects on his journey from Michigan to the beach volleyball scene. Don’t miss th...
In this episode, Caitlin takes us behind the scenes of her incredible journey, sharing what it's like to play for Team Australia on the Pro Volleyball World Tour. She dives into the challenges and triumphs of competing at the highest level of the sport. Caitlin also opens up about how she earned her degree in Kinesiology from San Jose State University. In addition to earning a Masters of Physiotherapy Studies from University of Queensland; and how that academic path has influenced her c...
In this episode, we sit down with David Brandin, founder of the SoCal Beach Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to enhancing the Hermosa Beach community. David shares exciting updates about upcoming local tournaments and how these events are shaping the future of the area. David dives into the core mission of the SoCal Beach Foundation, discussing the impactful work they’re doing in Hermosa Beach and beyond. He highlights the foundation's collaboration with the city to upgrade the beach courts...
In this episode, Toni Rodriguez, AVP Champion and Team USA member, sits down to discuss her volleyball journey. A proud alumna of LSU Beach and Indoor Volleyball, Toni shares the secrets behind her successful partnership with Geena Urango. She opens up about the dedication and skills required to compete at the professional level, how her college career shaped her approach to the game, and provides valuable insight into volleyball-specific techniques and strategies. Whether you're a player or ...
In this episode, USC Beach Volleyball head coach Dain Blanton discusses the remarkable success of the Women of Troy, including their four consecutive national championships. Dain shares insights into the unique culture of USC Beach Volleyball, what makes the program stand out, and who they recruit to continue their legacy of excellence. He also opens up about what USC looks for in recruits and gives us a peek into how the team practices. Additionally, Dain shares personal stories from his unf...
These Austrian young guns, Paul Pascariuc and Laurenz Leitner, have made waves on the Pro Beach Volleyball World Tour. Team Austria opens up about how to make it on the Volleyball World Pro Beach Tour, what it takes to compete on the international stage, and where they see the sport going. Welcome to the Grit, the show hosted by Meg Burgdorf and Victoria Dennis where we discuss beach volleyball world news, life on the sand, USAV/AAU Junior Nationals, FIVB/AVP, all in the bu...
Geena Urango, the first ever AVP League Champion, shares what life can look like after Pro Sports as a Woman. She gives her experience on winning the First AVP League Championship as well as her inside thoughts on the new AVP League Structure. The conversation in this episode goes beyond just Volleyball with Geena. Brought to you by Skyball Apparel: Tune in, Like & Subscribe! #womenssports #AVPLeague #skyball #skyballapparel #avpbeachvolleyball #avpbeach #AVPLeagueChampionship #Gee...
About Grit - Beach Volleyball News
Welcome to GRIT, the ultimate beach volleyball podcast hosted by Victoria Dennis. Each episode brings you the latest news, breaking stories, and in-depth conversations with top athletes from the AVP, Beach Volleyball World Tour, NCAA, and leading professional coaches worldwide. If you’re passionat
Grit - Beach Volleyball News is a English sport podcast from Victoria Dennis. Melo plays each episode straight from the publisher's own feed — no ads added, no account needed — and remembers where you stopped, in this browser only.
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