Above 180.com Bowling Podcast

Joining me on the podcast today is Chris VanAkkeren. Chris and his Nicholas J's Pro Shop team rolled an impressive 3250 team series at the USBC Open Championships in Reno. Chris breaks down the team’s game plan and preparation heading into the tournament, what they saw once they got on the lanes in Reno, and how they adjusted as the event unfolded. He also explains one key factor he believes many bowlers are overlooking this year, and dives into the major differences between this year’s pattern and last year’s conditions. Chris also shares what equipment he had in his ba...

Patrick Dombrowski joins the show after capturing the 2026 Go Bowling! U.S. Open, earning his first career PBA Tour title and major championship in dramatic fashion. Dombrowski defeated Anthony Simonsen 197–195 to claim the coveted green jacket and $100,000 first prize. In this conversation, Patrick walks us through the journey that led to this breakthrough moment, including the years spent grinding on the PBA Tour and building success on the regional level before finally breaking through on bowling’s biggest stage. We discuss: Patrick’s career journey and how he got to the professional level The mindset and adjustments that clicked during U.S. O...

On this episode, I’m joined by former collegiate All-American bowler Mike Hardesty to break down the 2026 PBA season from a gambling perspective. We dive into the types of bowling bets available, the players we’re watching closely this year, and how bettors can approach PBA matchups with a smarter strategy. We also discuss whether common matchup lines like -118 can be beaten long term, the traps to avoid when betting on professional bowling, and the best timing for placing wagers throughout the season. Mike and I share some of our own insights into bowling betting strategy while stressing the impo...

This week I catch up with Bowling This Month contributor and Team Canada Head Coach Tyrel Rose to break down how bowlers can improve their game in 2026. Rose shares why the mental game remains the true foundation of success on the lanes and explains how developing stronger focus, confidence, and consistency can immediately elevate performance. We also discuss why bowlers shouldn’t overlook proper fit and the ideal time to have their equipment evaluated to maximize comfort and scoring potential. Rose dives into the balance between understanding bowling ball technical specs and learning to read different oil patterns—offering practical advi...

On this episode, I sit down with pro shop operator, Silver-Certified Coach and ball reviewer for the Bowlers Journal International Vernon Peterson to discuss the latest trends shaping today’s bowling equipment market. Vernon shares insights on why brand loyalty still runs deep among many bowlers, what the new urethane rule really means for the average player, and how to achieve a similar reaction using shorter pin layouts. We also dive into the ongoing debate of thumb slugs vs. interchangeable thumbs—who benefits most from each setup, and how to decide what’s right for your game. Whether you’re a league...

On this episode, we sit down with Brooke Green, head bowling coach at Clarke University. Coach Green shares what her team has been focusing on after the first two events of the season and outlines her expectations moving forward. She also discusses her approach to recruiting, what she looks for in future bowlers, and gives us a glimpse into what a typical practice looks like for her teams.

On this episode, I sit down with Craig Spencer — owner of Virtue Bowling Supply and a USBC Silver Certified Coach. We dive into what bowlers should keep in mind as they return to league and tournament play after a summer break. Craig also shares the vision behind StrikeTutor, where he serves as Chief Product Officer, and explains how both bowlers can use it to to sharpen their game.

Marc McDowell is back on top — and he’s doing it in his 60s. In this episode, we dive into how he claimed his third Eagle at the 2025 USBC Open Championships and why this victory feels extra special. Marc opens up about his mindset heading into doubles and singles after a tough final team game, and how he’s maintained elite performance over decades of competition. He shares the training, preparation, and mental approach that keep him competitive against the best in the game — and what older bowlers can do to stay sharp. We wrap up with his unfiltered take on the t...

On this episode, I’m joined by Jeff Richgels, Five-Time USBC Eagles winner and owner of 11thFrame.com, to break down this year’s USBC Open Championships and to make sense of the urethane discussion taking place. We dive into what led to the noticeably lower scores, including lane topography, oil patterns, and the chatter surrounding them. Jeff also shares his insights on the USBC's recent urethane survey — what it reveals, what it might signal for the future, and what he thinks the USBC’s next move could be when it comes to urethane regulation.

On this episode, Tim sits down with six-time PWBA titleist Jordan Snodgrass for a deep dive into her journey from college lanes to the pro tour. Jordan reflects on her college bowling experience, shares smart advice for high school athletes choosing a program, and opens up about the biggest adjustments she faced transitioning to the PWBA. Plus, she reveals the one powerful word every player should remember when a coach or tour rep suggests a ball change or lane move.

I catch up with the voice of the PWBA Tour, Emil Williams Jr., for a fast-paced rundown of all things women’s pro bowling. We break down the season opener in Kansas, preview the USBC Queens, and look ahead to the biggest storylines of the year. Emil names the rising stars to watch, gives the latest on Shannon O’Keefe’s return, and reflects on some of the most unforgettable moments from the past decade on tour.

This week on the show, I’m joined by two-time USBC Eagle winner Ronnie Sparks Jr.! We dive into his incredible performance at the USBC Open Championships in Baton Rouge, where he and Jay Lang surged into the lead in the Doubles event. Ronnie shares the full story—from how the lanes played, to the mindset that powered his crew, to the game-changing advice Jay gave him during practice. We also break down tips to help you make the most of your USBC OC experience. Don’t miss this one—plenty of insight, stories, and winning mentality to help you succeed.

This week, we sit down with 900 Global staffer and former collegiate bowling standout Andrew Anderson. He shares insights into his college bowling experience and the journey that led him to the PBA. We also break down the first third of the PBA Tour, discussing key moments and his goals for the rest of the season. Andrew reflects on the impact of the Tour’s talented rookies and how their presence continues to push him to improve.

In this podcast, I’m joined by former collegiate bowling standout Mike Hardesty to dive into the world of PBA betting. We discuss the PBA Delaware Classic from a gambling perspective, analyzing our wagers and how they played out. Mike and I share tips and advice for betting on the PBA Tour, including key bowlers to watch this season. We also take a deep dive into handicapping the U.S. Open, which is set to take place this year at Woodland Bowl in Indianapolis. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or new to PBA gambling, this episode has something for ever...

This week, I spoke with accomplished bowler Ryan Barnes about his journey in the sport and his aspirations for the future. He shared how his college bowling experience at Wichita State University helped him refine his skills and build a strong competitive foundation. Ryan discussed the challenges and lessons he encountered while being part of the renowned program and how it shaped his game. He also provided insights into his goals and strategies for the upcoming PBA Tour season, offering a glimpse into his preparation and mindset. Reflecting on his standout performance at the PBA Tour Trials, Ryan highlighted the...

This week, we sit down with Hayden Stippich, a two-time Collegiate All-American from Tennessee Southern University, who recently secured his exemption on the PBA Tour for the 2025 season. Hayden shares how his experience at TN Southern was instrumental in his success at trials and reflects on the pivotal coaching session with Mike Shady that helped him achieve his dream of joining the tour. We also dive into the inspirations behind his game, discussing the two-handers he looks up to on tour, and his aspirations for the upcoming season.

This week, I catch up with 2002 ABC (now USBC) Masters Champion Brett Wolfe to dive into his coaching philosophy and his insights on how bowlers can improve their averages. Wolfe, the head coach at B3 Performance in Tempe, AZ, also shares common mistakes bowlers make in league play that can lead to lower scores. We wrap up with a discussion on the future of string pin bowling and why he believes it’s here to stay.

This week I catch up with PWBA Star and USBC HOF Member Missy Parkin. Parkin was inducted into the hall of fame back in April in Las Vegas. Missy also goes into detail regarding her long road back to bowling after a wrist injury sidelined her and where things are at now regarding her wrist. We discuss her future plans and also what advice she has for bowlers heading into college.

I catch with Storm Booth Manager and Storm Brand Ambassador Wes Pye to discuss how things went for the Storm booth in Las Vegas at the USBC OC. Wes also shares some tips for folks who bowl the OC and how his team looks to help bowlers when they visit the booth. Wes discusses why surface is key when bowling the tournament and how small changes to the surface of a ball can make a big difference. We also discuss Storm's involvement in the Military Bowling Championships taking place as well at South Point. We shares why he believes the...

I catch up with one of the latest bowlers to win a USBC Eagle Tim Pfeifer. Pfeifer is part of the Higgy's Aquarium team that won the Team All Events title at the Open Championships in Las Vegas. We discuss the game plan they had heading into the event and the sweat after posting 10,226 in late June. Pfeifer, who manages two centers also discusses string pinsetters and why he believes they could save bowling in rural America.

On this can't miss podcast I am joined by six-time PBA title winner Chris Warren. We discuss his season on the PBA50 Tour, what went right and what he can learn from his two second place finishes. We also discuss a recent post by Dick Allen fueling the when to use urethane debate once again and Chris shares his thoughts on Bowlero buying up centers and them owning the PBA Tour.

This week I am joined by Valerie Bercier who is a registered Dietitian at Berberry Health & Wellness LLC. We discuss how what you put into your body plays a major role in your success on the lanes. Valerie also shares some tips on what bowlers can eat before, during and after competition to keep them performing at their best.

This week I catch up with USBC Hall of Famer & Silver-Certified Coach Mike Shady to discuss his trip to Vegas for the Open Championships. We talk about both patterns and what equipment, generally speaking he thinks will work will this year. Shady also shares why he believes scores this year may be a touch higher then years past, especially in Doubles and Singles. We also talk about that guy who uses urethane in league and how it changes the pattern. Finally we talk string pins and Mike shares why he believes they are here to stay and why he likes...

This week we catch up with former college bowler and coach JJ Mastny to discuss his USBC OC Experience. Mastny's team is currently leading the team event with a score of 3363. We discuss his teams' preparation for the tournament and when he really feels the lanes opened up for his team. We discuss equipment, surface and how topography all played a part their success in Vegas.

This week I catch up with PBA Star Kyle Troup at the Phoenix Raceway. We discuss his first half of the 2024 season and what his expectations are for the rest of the year. We discuss some of the challenges he is facing off the lanes and why it made him rethink his entire process.

Two-Time PBA Star Matt Ogle joins me to discuss his journey to the PBA Tour and his goals for the upcoming season. We also talk about his relationship with Sean Rash and how they became doubles partners. We also discuss his thoughts on the US Open oil patterns and how he has learned to like urethane.

We kick of 2024 by interviewing 2024 former ASU Bowler Chase Nadeau. Chase talks about his time bowling at Arizona State and who he leaned on for advice when it came to picking a college and what advice he has for young bowlers. We also talk about how his game has changed over the years and what winning the Storm Utah Open means to him.

Bill joins us to discuss high school bowling across the country and how he approaches coaching his high school team. He also talks about why he believes youth bowling in his area is on the decline, and how he approaches coaching and lessons. Bill also talks about how he was introduced to two-handed bowling and how he teaches the two-handed game. Bill also shares his advice for bowlers looking to bowl in college and even beyond. We also discuss string pins and his initial thoughts based on some of the videos being posted.

This week we catch up with Grand Canyon University Head Bowling Coach Ben Canfield. Canfield talks about how both his teams are preparing for the upcoming season and how he has grown as coach over the years. We also talk about how he relates to his team as the age gap between him and his athletes continues to get wider. We also discuss recruiting and he looks for when on the recruiting trail.

This week we catch up with new coach of the women's team at McKendree University Shawn Bibee. Bibee talks about taking over the program and how he is getting acclimated in his new role. We hear about how he coaches men vs women and how he works with well Assistant Coach Breanna Clemmer. We end our time discussing the goals for the program and what it means for the team to be part of the Storm Family.

This week we catch up with the newest PBA Champion, A.J. Johnson. Johnson talks about his big win overseas and his biggest takeaways from the win. A.J. also has some advice for college bowlers who may be stuck in a rut and what the 31 year old Johnson would tell the younger A.J. We end talking about the PBA League and what you can expect when you tune into watch the stars of the tour.

This week we catch up with Nick Kruml to talk about his time bowling at UW-Whitewater and his USBC Open Championships. We discuss why he chose Whitewater and advice he has for other high school bowlers looking to bowl in college. We talk about his performance in Reno from how he prepared, to where he played the lanes, to how much he watched the live scoring.

This week we chat with Mount Mercy Head Coach Andy Dierks. Coach Dierks talks about his time at Junior Gold this year and why he believes the talent at Junior Gold is at an all time high. We also discuss NIL and how the just over two year old decision is affecting college bowling.

This week while in Reno I catch up USBC Gold Certified Coach Ron Hatfield to discuss a variety of topics. We begin with some tips on how bowlers should prepare for the Open Championships and tournaments in general. We also discuss his thoughts on dropping down in weight when it comes to equipment and what expectations bowlers should have when taking a lesson. Hatfield also shares a few memories from his time coaching in Ukraine and what he believes makes Jason Belmonte the bowler he is today.

This week we catch up with Dylan Byars who bowled at Savannah College of Art and Design. Byars talks about his time bowling at SCAD and what led to him picking that school. We talk about how his time bowling in college has prepared him for life after graduation and why going out on the PBA Tour was never a goal of his.

This week we catch up with former McKendree University standout Hope Gramly. Gramly talks about ending her college bowling career on a high note and what winning in Vegas meant to her and the team. We chat about her time bowling on the PWBA Tour this year and her mindset bowling the Queens. Gramly also talks about what she believes college athletes need to remember when entering the transfer portal.

This week we catch up with former Midland University star Perry Crowell. Crowell shares why moving from the Pacific Northwest was for college was a big deal for him. Crowell also shares what advice he would tell a younger version of him. We chat about Perry's USBC OC and what went right for him and his partner in doubles.

This week I catch up Mike Shady to discuss the USBC Open Championships taking place in Reno. We discuss his thoughts on how to build a successful team for nationals and what he is hearing about this years competition. Mike talks about building an arsenal and shares his thoughts on using urethane this year.

This week we catch up with Webber International Junior Charlie Bostic. Bostic talks about his preparations for ITC & ISC set to happen later this month. We talk about how he has grown as a player of the past few years and his advice for high school bowlers looking to bowl in college.

This week we catch up again with former Fresno State standout PJ Haggerty to discuss his time bowling in college and his trip to the USBC OC. Haggerty discusses his team's mindset heading the team event and how his team attacked the lanes. We discuss the doubles and singles event as well with Haggerty along with how he is able to balance his bowling with life.