Bump Set Chat! The place to hear from your favorite volleyball personalities!

Bump Set Chat Podcast

Exploring volleyball's heart and soul through players' stories and experiences. 🏐 Join us for inspiring chats! 🎙️ #VolleyballPodcast #BumpSetChat

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20 episodes
Updated Monday

Episodes20

Newest first

Monday · 49 min
Inside the International Volleyball Hall of Fame with Executive Director George Mulry
In this episode, we're joined by George Mulry, Executive Director of the International Volleyball Hall of Fame (IVHF) and founder of Pioneer Valley Juniors Volleyball Club. George shares his incredible volleyball journey—from discovering the sport and developing his coaching philosophy to building one of New England's premier volleyball clubs. We dive into what separates great coaches from good ones, what parents often don't see behind the scenes, and what it takes to create a successful club culture. We also explore the fascinating history of the International Volleyball Hall of Fame, why it's located in Holyoke, Massachusetts—the birthplace of volleyball, and the story behind the invention of the sport by William G. Morgan. George explains the Hall's mission to preserve volleyball's rich history while inspiring future generations around the world. Plus, we discuss the 2026 IVHF Induction Class, the Showcase of Champions, memorable moments with volleyball legends, growing boys volleyball in New England, and how fans can support the Hall of Fame. Whether you're a player, coach, parent, or lifelong volleyball fan, this conversation is packed with stories, history, and insights you won't want to miss. In this episode: 🏐 George's volleyball journey 🏐 Discovering a passion for coaching 🏐 Building Pioneer Valley Juniors 🏐 Coaching philosophy and mentorship 🏐 What great coaches do differently 🏐 The history of volleyball 🏐 Why the IVHF is located in Holyoke 🏐 Behind the scenes of the International Volleyball Hall of Fame 🏐 The 2026 Hall of Fame induction class 🏐 Growing volleyball for future generations 🏐 How you can support the IVHF If you enjoyed this episode, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE to help us continue bringing you conversations with the people growing the game of volleyball. Follow the International Volleyball Hall of Fame: https://www.volleyhall.org/ Follow Bump Set Chat for more volleyball interviews with players, coaches, and leaders from around the world. #Volleyball #GeorgeMulry #IVHF #VolleyballHallOfFame #BumpSetChat #Coaching #YouthVolleyball #ClubVolleyball #PioneerValleyJuniors #Holyoke #WilliamGMorgan #USAVolleyball #VolleyballHistory #GrowTheGame #VolleyballPodcast
July 26 · 37 min
How Andrej Jokanovic Went From France to UC Irvine Volleyball
🏐 From France to one of the top men's volleyball programs in the NCAA, Andrej Jokanovic joins Bump Set Chat to share the story behind his incredible volleyball journey. In this episode, Andrej talks about growing up in France, learning the game through the French volleyball system, and making the life-changing decision to leave home and play collegiate volleyball at UC Irvine. We discuss: 🏐 How he first fell in love with volleyball 🇫🇷 Growing up and developing as a player in France 🎓 Why he chose UC Irvine over staying in Europe 🌎 The challenges of moving across the world for college 💪 Adjusting to the speed and physicality of NCAA volleyball 🏆 His freshman season, earning Big West Freshman of the Year honors, and what's next for his career 🇫🇷 His dreams of representing France on the senior national team If you're a volleyball player, coach, parent, or fan interested in international volleyball and the path to NCAA success, you won't want to miss this conversation. 👍 If you enjoyed this episode, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and turn on notifications so you never miss another Bump Set Chat interview! #Volleyball #AndrejJokanovic #UCIrvine #NCAAVolleyball #MensVolleyball #CollegeVolleyball #FrenchVolleyball #BumpSetChat #VolleyballPodcast #BigWestVolleyball
July 7 · 1 hr 13 min
The Journey of Team USA Setter Saige Ka'aha'aina-Torres | Texas, Pro Volleyball & VNL
Team USA setter Saige Ka'aha'aina-Torres joins Bump Set Chat to share her incredible volleyball journey—from growing up in Hawaii to winning a national championship at Texas, playing professionally in Puerto Rico, France, LOVB and Major League Volleyball, and earning a spot on the 2026 USA Volleyball VNL roster. Saige opens up about: 🏐 Growing up in Hawaii's unique volleyball community 🏐 Her recruiting journey and why she chose Utah 🏐 Entering the transfer portal and finding the perfect fit at Texas 🏆 Winning the NCAA National Championship 🎓 Playing for Jerritt Elliott and Erik Sullivan 🌎 The transition to professional volleyball overseas 🇵🇷 Playing in Puerto Rico 🇫🇷 Life playing professionally in Paris 🇺🇸 Returning home to play in LOVB and Major League Volleyball 🇺🇸 The emotions of putting on the Team USA jersey for the first time 🏐 What she's learned from veteran setters like Jordyn Poulter 💡 Advice for young setters looking to reach the next level Whether you're a setter, player, parent, or volleyball fan, Saige shares incredible insight into leadership, communication, confidence, and what it takes to compete at the highest level. 👍 If you enjoy conversations like this, please Like, Subscribe, and leave a comment with your favorite part of Saige's journey! #Volleyball #TeamUSA #TexasVolleyball #Setter #BumpSetChat
June 28 · 38 min
CEO Jes Wolfe on Leadership, Rebel Girls & the Future of LOVB Professional Volleyball
What do empowering girls through storytelling and building the future of professional volleyball have in common? In this episode of Bump Set Chat, we sit down with Jes Wolfe, CEO of Rebel Girls and Chairwoman of LOVB San Francisco, to discuss her remarkable leadership journey and her vision for growing women's sports. Jes shares: Her path to becoming CEO of Rebel Girls Leadership lessons from solo sports vs. team sports Why she joined LOVB and what inspired her to invest in professional volleyball Why San Francisco was chosen for a LOVB franchise Her vision for LOVB San Francisco and the future of the league How storytelling can elevate women's sports The relationship between Rebel Girls and LOVB Whether we'll see collaborations between Rebel Girls and LOVB San Francisco Advice for young athletes and future leaders Whether you're a volleyball player, coach, parent, or simply passionate about women's sports, this conversation offers valuable insights into leadership, purpose, and the power of representation. 🏐 Subscribe for more conversations with professional players, coaches, and leaders shaping the future of volleyball. #Volleyball #LOVB #RebelGirls #WomenInSports #Leadership #BumpSetChat #ProVolleyball #GirlsSports #YouthSports #SportsLeadership
June 18 · 1 hr 27 min
Erik Sullivan Opens Up About Team USA, UCLA Championships & LOVB Austin
Two-time Olympian Erik Sullivan joins Bump Set Chat to discuss his incredible volleyball journey from UCLA Bruins men's volleyball to the international stage with Team USA and now as the head coach of United States men's national volleyball team while also leading LOVB Austin. We discuss: 🏐 His playing days at UCLA 🏅 Competing in two Olympic Games 🌍 Playing professionally overseas 🇺🇸 Coaching Team USA 🔥 Balancing Team USA and LOVB Austin 💪 Building championship culture 🎯 Advice for young volleyball players and coaches If you love volleyball, coaching insights, and inspiring athlete stories, this episode is for you. 👍 Like, Subscribe, and Share for more conversations with the biggest names in volleyball! #volleyball #usavolleyball #lovb #teamusa #olympics #volleyballpodcast
June 15 · 55 min
The Double Life of Kofi Gyimah: Pro Volleyball Player & Recording Artist
What happens when you step away from volleyball at the start of your pro career to chase a completely different dream?In this episode, I sit down with Daenan Gyimah, better known as Kofi, to discuss his incredible journey from Canada to UCLA, professional volleyball overseas, and representing Team Canada on the international stage.We also dive into the unique decision to take three years away from volleyball to focus on music, how he balanced two passions, what brought him back to the sport, and what he learned from betting on himself. Kofi also shares stories about playing professionally alongside some of the biggest names in volleyball, including Wilfredo León, and reflects on the lessons he's learned throughout his career.If you're a volleyball fan, an athlete pursuing multiple passions, or someone who enjoys inspiring stories of resilience and self-discovery, this conversation is for you.Topics Covered🏐 Growing up in Canada and discovering volleyball🎓 His journey to UCLA🌍 Playing professional volleyball overseas🍁 Representing Team Canada🎶 Why he left volleyball for three years to pursue music🎤 Balancing life as a recording artist and professional athlete🔥 Playing alongside Wilfredo León and other world-class players💡 Advice for young athletes chasing their dreamsDon't forget to Like 👍, Subscribe 🔔, and leave a comment with your favorite part of the interview!
June 10 · 58 min
Merrick McHenry: Authenticity, Volleyball & Finding Confidence
Volleyball has taken Merrick McHenry around the world, but one of the biggest themes of his journey has been learning to embrace who he is. In this conversation, Merrick reflects on his path from youth volleyball to UCLA, Team USA, and professional volleyball in France, while also sharing the importance of confidence, authenticity, and not changing yourself to fit someone else's expectations. We also discuss: 🏐 His volleyball journey and rise to Team USA 🏆 Winning at UCLA and developing as a player 🇺🇸 Competing in the Volleyball Nations League 🌍 Playing professionally overseas 🤝 Sharing the experience with fellow American Mason Briggs 👏 Learning from Karch Kiraly and the Team USA staff 💙 Advice for young athletes about believing in themselves and embracing their individuality Whether you're a volleyball fan or simply looking for inspiration, Merrick's story is a reminder that success comes from being comfortable in your own skin while continuing to grow as an athlete and a person. #MerrickMcHenry #TeamUSA #Volleyball #Authenticity #Confidence #USAVolleyball #MensVolleyball #VNL #UCLA #VolleyballJourney
May 29 · 1 hr 24 min
From Ohio State Player to coaching at Louisville - Parker Mikesch Interview
In this episode, we sit down with Parker Mikesch, assistant coach for the Louisville Cardinals women's volleyball, to talk about his volleyball journey, playing at Ohio State, and how he transitioned into coaching at one of the top programs in college volleyball. We also dive into: Recruiting philosophy Evaluating athletes beyond talent Match scouting and film breakdown Preparing game plans Working with Dan Meske and the Louisville staff The evolving world of college volleyball recruiting If you enjoy volleyball interviews, coaching insight, and behind-the-scenes college volleyball content, make sure to like, comment, and subscribe! #Volleyball #LouisvilleVolleyball #NCAAvolleyball #CollegeVolleyball #ParkerMikesch #Recruiting #VolleyballCoaching #WomensVolleyball #OhioStateVolleyball #VolleyballPodcast
May 23 · 1 hr 4 min
Natalie Reagan’s Volleyball Journey | Oregon State to Long Beach State HC
Natalie Reagan joins the show to share her volleyball journey—from playing Division I volleyball at Oregon State Beavers women's volleyball to becoming the head coach of Long Beach State women's volleyball.We talk about her transition from assistant coach to head coach, the culture surrounding Long Beach State volleyball, coaching inside the iconic Walter Pyramid, recruiting, leadership, and advice for young middle blockers looking to play at the next level.🏐 Topics Include:Natalie Reagan’s volleyball journeyPlaying Division I volleyball at Oregon StateTransitioning into coachingBecoming head coach at Long Beach StateBuilding team cultureRecruiting advice for athletesTips for young middle blockersThe experience of coaching in The Pyramid
May 15 · 41 min
From Europe to NCAA Champions: Kristian Titriyski's Journey
In this episode of Volleyball Journeys, Kristian Titriyski shares his remarkable path from growing up in Bulgaria to becoming a standout player for the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa men's volleyball program. Kristian discusses how he first discovered volleyball, his development through club volleyball in Bulgaria, and his experiences representing Bulgaria on the national team. He also explains why he chose Hawaiʻi instead of turning professional immediately and what it was like adjusting to college volleyball, life in Hawaii, and the unique culture surrounding UH men's volleyball. Throughout the conversation, Kristian offers valuable insights into the differences between European and NCAA volleyball, the importance of resetting mentally during matches, pregame rituals, scouting opponents, and the mentors who have helped shape his career. He also shares advice for younger hitters and international athletes considering playing college volleyball in the United States. Whether you're a volleyball player, coach, or fan, this interview provides an inside look at one of the sport's rising international talents. Discovering volleyball in Bulgaria Club volleyball and national team experience Why Kristian chose Hawaii Adjusting to college and island life European vs NCAA volleyball Winning the 2025 Big West Championship at home Mental reset strategies Pregame rituals and scouting Advice for young hitters Mentors including Vlado Nikolov Key Topics Covered:
May 11 · 1 hr 6 min
Carolyn O'Dwyer on Winning with the Pandas and Coaching on Canada’s National Team
Carolyn O'Dwyer shares her incredible volleyball journey from discovering the sport in Calgary to playing at Mount Royal University, becoming head coach of the University of Alberta Pandas, winning a championship, and joining Volleyball Canada's senior women's national team staff. In this in-depth conversation, Carolyn discusses her development as an athlete, the importance of club volleyball, the transition from player to coach, and the lessons she learned working under legendary Alberta coach Laurie Eisler. She also shares what it was like to receive the call to join Giovanni Guidetti’s coaching staff and what she has learned from one of the most respected coaches in international volleyball. We also dive into: Winning a championship with the Alberta Pandas Coaching in Volleyball Canada’s Next Gen program The experience of the FIVB Volleyball Nations League How Canada is progressing on the world stage Differences between U SPORTS and NCAA volleyball Recruiting and retaining top Canadian athletes What Carolyn looks for in recruits beyond volleyball skills Mental toughness, resetting, and reading body language Which volleyball position is the toughest to play Fun off-court topics, including pineapple pizza and who should be interviewed next Whether you're a player, coach, recruiter, or volleyball fan, Carolyn offers tremendous insight into athlete development, leadership, and what it takes to build a championship culture.
April 29 · 1 hr 9 min
Brie O’Reilly’s Volleyball Journey: National Team, Pro Career & Olympic Goals
Brie O’Reilly joins the show to share her incredible volleyball journey—from playing at Trinity Western University to becoming a setter for Canada Women's National Volleyball Team, competing professionally in Germany and Brazil, and now playing with LOVB Austin. We talk about: 🏐 Making Team Canada in 2019 🥇 Competing in the VNL's🌍 Playing professionally 🇨🇦 Olympic dreams and the road to 2028 Summer Olympics🧠 Being coached by Erik Sullivan and Giovanni Guidetti 🔥 Life now with LOVB Austin If you’re a volleyball player, coach, or fan, this conversation is packed with insight on elite setting, international volleyball, and chasing big goals. Subscribe for more volleyball journeys with players, coaches and leaders in the game. #Volleyball #TeamCanada #LOVB #Olympics #BrieOReilly
April 22 · 49 min
From LIBERO to OUTSIDE HITTER… Then He Went VIRAL - Jordan Lucas Interview
Jordan Lucas is everywhere right now. After a viral broadcast comment questioned his on-court celebrations, the volleyball world exploded—millions of views, debates, and nonstop reactions. But there’s a lot more to his story. From being recruited by GCU, coming in as an outside hitter then switching to libero. Saw the writing on the wall before GCU cancelled the volleyball program—Jordan’s journey is definitely unique in college volleyball. In this interview, he breaks it all down: 🔥 The viral moment 🏐 His position switch 💪 Getting out of GCU 🎯 What drives his energy on the court
April 13 · 1 hr 8 min
Thana Fayad - She Was Told Her Season was over AGAIN! … She Came Back STRONGER to play for TEAM CANADA
Thana Fayad’s journey isn’t just about volleyball—it’s about resilience. After suffering two ACL tears during her time at the University of San Diego, her career was put on hold. Many would have walked away. She didn’t. After stepping away from the game, Thana fought her way back—earning a chance to play professionally and ultimately representing Team Canada at the World Championships. This is a story about perseverance, belief, and refusing to quit when everything says you should.
April 3 · 56 min
From NCAA Champion to New Mission: Alan Knipe’s Next Chapter
In this episode of Bump Set Chat, we sit down with legendary coach Alan Knipe to talk about life after stepping away from Long Beach State Men's Volleyball. Walking away from college after another national championship, Coach Knipe shares what retirement has really been like, what it’s like watching his team from the outside, and how his perspective on coaching has evolved. We also dive into his new venture, Champions Unlimited—a unique offseason training environment designed to help athletes at every level prepare, develop, and compete at a higher standard. Plus, we break down: What college athletes are missing in the offseason How high school players can actually prepare for the next level The importance of systems, leadership, and volleyball IQ The vision behind PLAIY — a “coach in your pocket” Whether you're a player, coach, or fan of the game, this is a must-watch conversation on development, mindset, and the future of volleyball.
March 26 · 1 hr 2 min
She Played D1… Now Coaches D3 (Here’s What People Get Wrong) - MSOE Head coach Kris Susak
In this interview, we sit down with MSOE Women’s Volleyball Head Coach Kris Susak to talk about her journey from playing Division I volleyball at South Dakota to leading a Division III program. We dive into: Her path from athlete to coach The real differences between D1 and D3 volleyball Why D3 is often misunderstood What recruits and families need to know Why finding the right fit matters more than the division label If you’re going through the recruiting process or trying to decide what level is right for you, this conversation will change how you think about Division III volleyball. D3 is not a step down—it’s a different path.
March 16 · 33 min
Tread Rosenthal Breaks Down His Volleyball Journey & Playing for Team USA
In this episode we sit down with Tread Rosenthal, standout setter for the University of Hawaiʻi volleyball program, to talk about his volleyball journey and what it takes to compete at the highest level. Tread shares how he got started in volleyball, the path that led him to Hawaiʻi, and what it means to represent the United States Men's National Volleyball Team. We also dive into: His development as a setter The culture of Hawaiʻi volleyball Competing at the NCAA level Representing Team USA Advice for young volleyball players If you love volleyball stories, high-level insights, and learning what it takes to reach the next level, you’ll enjoy this conversation. 👍 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more volleyball interviews and stories.
March 7 · 43 min
Abby Guezen Interview | University of Alberta Pandas & Team Canada
Abby Guezen is a standout player for the University of Alberta Pandas and a member of Team Canada.In this interview, Abby shares her volleyball journey, what it’s like competing at the university level in Canada, and the experience of representing her country on the international stage.Topics include:University volleyball in CanadaThe path to Team CanadaTraining and competition at the national levelAdvice for aspiring athletes📺 Watch the full interview to hear Abby’s story.#TeamCanada #CanadianVolleyball #USportsVolleyball #AbbyGuezen
February 27 · 41 min
From UCLA to Team USA: Cam Thorne’s Rise in Volleyball
In this exclusive interview, UCLA volleyball standout Cam Thorne shares his journey from early beginnings in the sport to competing at the highest level for Team USA. Cam opens up about: • His development as a player • The transition to UCLA volleyball • What it takes to earn a spot with Team USA • The mindset required to compete internationally • Advice for young athletes chasing big goals If you’re a volleyball player, coach, or fan, this conversation gives real insight into the dedication, discipline, and belief it takes to reach the next level. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more volleyball interviews and stories. #Volleyball #UCLAVolleyball #TeamUSA #CollegeVolleyball #MensVolleyball
February 10 · 1 hr 2 min
Ci Michel Interview: Olympic Volleyball, Broadcasting & Her Incredible Journey
From the Court to the Commentary Booth: Ci Michel's Volleyball Journey Join us for an inspiring conversation with Ci Michel, Team GB Olympian and VNL broadcaster, as she shares her incredible journey through the world of volleyball.From competing at the University of Miami to representing Great Britain at the Olympics, playing professionally, and now bringing her expertise to broadcasting college volleyball and the Volleyball Nations League, Ci gives us an inside look at every chapter of her career.In this interview, we discuss:✅ Her college volleyball experience at Miami ✅ The path to becoming a Team GB Olympian✅ Life as a professional volleyball player✅ Transitioning from player to broadcaster✅ What it's like calling VNL and college matches✅ Lessons learned and advice for aspiring athletesWhether you're a volleyball player, fan, or someone interested in sports broadcasting, Ci's story offers valuable insights into dedication, adaptability, and following your passion at the highest levels.