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

40 Episodes
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By: Bump Set Chat Podcast

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

She Played D1
 Now Coaches D3 (Here’s What People Get Wrong) - MSOE Head coach Kris Susak
Last Thursday at 2:40 PM

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 deci...


Tread Rosenthal Breaks Down His Volleyball Journey & Playing for Team USA
03/16/2026

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

<...


Abby Guezen Interview | University of Alberta Pandas & Team Canada
03/07/2026

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 athletesđŸ“ș Watch the full interview to hear Abby’s story.#TeamCanada #CanadianVolleyball #USportsVolleyball #AbbyGuezen


From UCLA to Team USA: Cam Thorne’s Rise in Volleyball
02/27/2026

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.


Ci Michel Interview: Olympic Volleyball, Broadcasting & Her Incredible Journey
02/10/2026

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 Olym...


From the Grind to Gold: Long Beach's Kellen Larson’s Volleyball Story
01/31/2026

In this interview, Long Beach State libero Kellen Larson sits down to talk about his volleyball journey — from the early grind to winning a NCAA National Championship and earning the opportunity to represent Team USA.

Kellen breaks down what it takes to compete at the highest level, the mindset behind elite defense, and how Long Beach State’s championship culture helped shape him as a player. He also shares what it meant to wear the red, white, and blue and compete with some of the best players in the country.

Whether you’re a volleyball player...


Gage Worsley | Volleyball Journey, Out of System & What’s Next
01/23/2026

Gage Worsley talks about his volleyball journey, the challenges he faced, and co-creating Out of System — a platform reshaping volleyball media and culture.

In this interview, we discuss Gage’s path in the sport, lessons learned as a libero, and how Out of System became a space for authentic volleyball storytelling. A deep dive into the mindset, creativity, and passion behind the brand.


No National Team. No Problem. McKenzie Adams’ Rise Through the World’s Best Leagues
01/12/2026

McKenzie Adams’ volleyball journey is proof that there’s more than one path to the top.In this interview, LOVB Atlanta outside hitter McKenzie Adams opens up about her road through some of the best professional volleyball leagues in the world, navigating a career without the national team on her resume, and how hard work, consistency, and belief carried her to the highest level of the game.Now playing professionally in her home country with LOVB, McKenzie reflects on what it means to bring elite volleyball back to the USA, represent Atlanta, and compete in a league built to elev...


From Israel to Hawaiʻi, Tali Hakas’ volleyball journey.
01/02/2026

In this interview, Tali opens up about growing up playing volleyball in Israel, the challenges of moving across the world, and what it really takes to earn a spot playing college volleyball at the University of Hawaii.


She shares the sacrifices, cultural adjustments, and mental strength required to compete at the NCAA level while representing her home country on a global stage.This is a must-watch for aspiring college athletes, international players, and anyone chasing a dream that takes them far from home.👇

Topics covered:

Growing up playing volleyball in Isr...


Luciano Palonsky | Pro Volleyball Career & Olympic Experience
12/20/2025

In this episode, we sit down with Luciano Palonsky, professional volleyball player for Argentina, to break down his incredible volleyball journey—from growing up in Argentina to competing on the world’s biggest stage at the Paris Olympics.

Luciano shares what it takes to become an Olympic volleyball player, the sacrifices behind playing professional volleyball overseas, and the mental and physical demands of representing Argentina at the Olympics. We also dive into the international competition, and what separates elite players from the rest.

Whether you’re a volleyball athlete, coach, fan, or aspiring Olympian, this interv...


From Protégé to Head Coach: Nick MacRae on Following a Legend
12/10/2025

In this interview, Nick MacRae, the new head coach of Long Beach State Men’s Volleyball, opens up about his transition from longtime assistant to taking over one of the most iconic programs in NCAA volleyball. After spending over a decade under legendary coach Alan Knipe, Nick shares what he learned, how he found out about the coaching change, and what it means to follow in the footsteps of a national championship coach.


We also dive into Long Beach’s 2024 national championship run, the culture behind their success, and the huge summer for Long Beac...


4 Olympics, One Legacy | Luciano De Cecco Volleyball Journey
12/05/2025

In this exclusive interview, we sit down with 4-time Olympic volleyball player Luciano De Cecco, one of the greatest setters in the world, to break down his incredible volleyball journey from Argentina to the global stage.


De Cecco shares:

How he started playing volleyball

His rise through Argentina’s national team

What it’s like competing in four Olympic Games

The mindset behind becoming one of the best setters in volleyball history

Lessons learned from international club volleyball and elite competition

Whether you’...


From VakifBank to Team Canada: Giovanni Guidetti’s Incredible Coaching Story
11/21/2025

In this exclusive interview, legendary volleyball coach Giovanni Guidetti opens up about his coaching journey — from dominating with VakifBank Istanbul, to developing world-class talent, to taking on a new challenge with Canada’s women’s volleyball team.We dive into:🏐 His coaching philosophy🏆 How he builds championship cultuređŸ‘„ Coaching some of the biggest names in volleyball🍁 Why he chose to lead Team CanadađŸ”„ His advice for athletes and coachesDon’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more volleyball stories and coaching interviews!


Why Versatility Matters: Nato Dickinson’s Championship Mindset at Long Beach State
#80
11/12/2025

Long Beach State’s Nato Dickinson shares his journey to becoming a national champion, the culture that drives LBSU Volleyball, and why being adaptable is key to success.

#NatoDickinson #LBSUVolleyball #LongBeachState #CollegeVolleyball #NationalChampion


Nataliia Klimenova: From Pro Volleyball to Coaching the Next Generation
11/04/2025

Discover the volleyball journey of Nataliia Klimenova — from learning the sport in Eastern Europe, to playing professional volleyball overseas, competing in U SPORTS at Mount Royal University in Canada, and now coaching the next generation through Natke Volleyball.

In this interview, Nataliia shares:

How she discovered volleyball and developed strong fundamentals

What life is really like playing professional volleyball in Europe

Her experience as a student-athlete in Canada

The vision and training philosophy behind Natke Volleyball coaching

If you're a volleyball player, parent, or coach looking for pl...


Growing Up Bay to Bay: Matt Houlihan on His Path from Athlete to Club Director
10/25/2025

In this exclusive interview, Bay to Bay Volleyball Club Director Matt Houlihan shares his incredible journey from playing for Bay to Bay as a kid to leading the program alongside his wife, Arielle Houlihan. Matt reflects on how his experiences as an athlete shaped his coaching philosophy, what makes Bay to Bay unique, and how the club continues to develop top volleyball talent on and off the court.


Whether you’re a player, coach, or parent, this episode offers insight into the culture, community, and leadership that define Bay to Bay Volleyball.


Erin Virtue Interview: Olympic Volleyball, Leadership & Coaching Michigan
10/17/2025

In this exclusive interview, Erin Virtue, Head Coach of Michigan Volleyball and Team USA Women’s Volleyball assistant coach, shares her inspiring journey from college athlete to one of the most respected volleyball coaches in the nation.

Erin opens up about her early playing days, the mentors who shaped her career, and how she transitioned from being a standout college player to coaching at the Olympic level. She discusses her coaching philosophy, how she builds culture within her teams, and the lessons she’s learned from working with elite athletes around the world.

Whether you’re a v...


TJ DeFalco Interview | Team USA Volleyball | 2x Olympian Talks Career & Motivation
10/10/2025

In this exclusive Team USA volleyball interview, TJ DeFalco, a two-time Olympian and pro athlete, talks about his volleyball journey, career lessons, and what it takes to compete at the highest level.Learn how TJ went from Long Beach State standout to representing the U.S. on the Olympic stage, and what continues to motivate him as one of the sport’s top players.


Bulgarian Icon Vladimir Nikolov on Volleyball, Family, and Raising Champions
#78
10/02/2025

Join us for an in-depth conversation with Vladimir Nikolov, one of Bulgaria’s greatest volleyball players and a true international legend. In this exclusive interview, Nikolov reflects on his incredible professional career, his time with the Bulgarian National Team, and what it’s like to raise two of the brightest stars in world volleyball — Alex and Moni Nikolov.🏐 Topics include:His early volleyball journey in BulgariaCareer highlights on the international stageTransition from player to mentor and fatherHow Alex and Moni developed into world-class athletesThis is the story of a volleyball dynasty in the making.


Alan KnipeAlan Knipe Interview | Long Beach State Volleyball Coach on Building Champions
09/24/2025

Join us for an exclusive conversation with Alan Knipe, head coach of Long Beach State Men’s Volleyball and former USA Volleyball head coach. In this interview, Knipe shares his coaching journey, the lessons learned along the way, and the philosophy that has helped him build championship teams at Long Beach.

👉 We talk about:His playing and coaching career highlights


Building a winning culture at Long Beach State


Lessons from coaching Team USA


His philosophy on leadership and player development


<...


Brittany Abercrombie | USC Star to Pro Volleyball with Athletes Unlimited & Orlando Valkyries
#78
09/16/2025

🏐 Brittany Abercrombie shares her incredible volleyball journey — from playing at USC, competing with Athletes Unlimited, to becoming a pro with the Orlando Valkyries in the Pro Volleyball Federation (PVF). Discover what it takes to compete at the highest level of women’s pro volleyball and how her career has shaped her on and off the court.

📌 Subscribe for more stories from the world of women’s professional volleyball!


Eleu Choy Interview - UH Men’s Volleyball & Hawaiʻi Roots
#78
09/12/2025

Join us for an exclusive interview with Eleu Choy, standout player for the University of Hawaiʻi Men’s Volleyball team. In this conversation, Eleu shares his journey growing up in Hawaiʻi, his path to joining UH, and what it means to represent the Rainbow Warriors on the court.

If you’re a fan of Hawaiʻi volleyball, the NCAA men’s volleyball scene, or simply love hearing athlete stories, this interview is for you.

📌 Topics Covered:

Eleu Choy’s volleyball beginnings in Hawaiʻi

His experience playing for the University of H...


Overcoming the Odds: Cassidy Lichtman’s Volleyball Story
#76
09/04/2025

From overcoming a devastating childhood injury to competing at the highest levels of volleyball, Cassidy Lichtman’s story is one of resilience and passion. She played for Stanford, represented Team USA, competed professionally around the world, and is now shaping the future of the sport as the Director of Volleyball for Athletes Unlimited. In this interview, Cassidy shares her incredible journey, the challenges she’s overcome, and how she’s giving back to the game she loves.



Taylor Crabb’s Beach Volleyball Journey: Wins, Setbacks, and Comebacks
#74
08/26/2025

From Hawaiian roots to the Olympic stage — Taylor Crabb’s volleyball journey is as exciting as it is inspiring. After dominating at Long Beach State, Taylor spent time playing pro indoor volleyball before finding his home on the beach, winning on the AVP Tour, and earning his spot at the Tokyo Olympics. But just days before competing, a positive COVID test forced him to stay on the sidelines.In this exclusive interview, Taylor shares the highs and lows of his career, how he overcame adversity, and what’s next as he continues to chase greatness in pro beach volleyball.


Nyadholi Thokbuom Talks Pro Volleyball, Team Canada & Her Journey
#74
08/20/2025

Nyadholi Thokbuom discusses her volleyball journey: Mount Royal University âžĄïž Pro Volleyball âžĄïž Team Canada. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation with one of Canada’s rising stars.


Spring with LOVB Omaha, Fall in Japan: Stanford's Sami Francis Big Year
#73
08/13/2025

What does it take to go from college volleyball to the professional stage? Stanford star Sami Francis gives us an inside look after her spring with LOVB Omaha and ahead of her next big adventure in Japan.



Not a Star, But a Fighter – Dustin Watten’s Road to the World Stage
#71
08/10/2025

From Long Beach to the world stage, Dustin Watten’s journey is one of grit, patience, and relentless hard work. Not the star player, but the one who refused to quit—Dustin fought his way to represent Team USA in international volleyball. Now, through his project NOEZYBUCKETS, he’s sharing his lessons, helping the next generation of athletes find their own path.

📌 In this interview, we dive into:

His beginnings in Long Beach volleyball

The mindset that carried him to Team USA

The challenges of chasing a dream without the spotlight

His...


From Player to Coach: Kristen Kelsay’s Return to Michigan State
08/06/2025

Kristen Kelsay talks about her volleyball career, her time as a player at Michigan State, and her return to East Lansing as head coach of Spartan Volleyball.
#KristenKelsay #MSUVolleyball #BigTenSports #VolleyballCoach #NCAAWomensVolleyball #SpartanVolleyball #CollegeSports


After Playing pro volleyball Overseas, Morgan Hentz Finds Her Next Chapter, comes home to the PVF!
#70
07/28/2025

Morgan Hentz has seen it all - NCAA titles at Stanford, the challenges of pro volleyball abroad, and now, a historic moment as she helps grow the PVF here in the U.S. In this intimate interview, she talks about adapting to different cultures, staying mentally strong, and what it means to play in front of family and friends on US soil.



TJ Sanders on His Volleyball Career and Coaching the Next Generation
#69
07/17/2025

2-time Olympian and former Team Canada volleyball setter TJ Sanders joins us for a powerful and inspiring conversation about the full arc of his career. From discovering volleyball in his youth to representing Canada at the highest level, TJ shares key milestones, proudest moments, and personal battles—including dealing with injuries that cut his playing career short. But this isn’t just a story about the past. TJ opens up about his life after pro volleyball, his transition into coaching, and how he’s using his experience to mentor and inspire the next generation of players. If you’re an athle...


How Joe Worsley is Changing the Game - UH to Pro Volleyball and Out of System
#68
07/09/2025

From Hawaii to France — Joe Worsley's Volleyball Journey 🌍Joe Worsley, former standout setter for the University of Hawai'i, has taken his game to the professional level in France. In this video, we dive into Joe’s journey — from growing up in a volleyball family, playing at UH, and now thriving overseas. He’s also one of the creative minds behind Out of System, helping grow the game in a unique way.Don’t miss this inspiring volleyball story!


Skyler Pierce’s Story: Passion, Power, and the Path to Nebraska
#66
06/22/2025

Skyler Pierce’s journey to becoming a key player for Nebraska Volleyball includes a surprising twist - redshirting. Learn how sitting out her first season became a major advantage in her development, helping her grow into one of the most exciting future stars in college volleyball.

đŸ”„ Inside the video:

– Skyler Pierce volleyball highlights

– Why she redshirted at Nebraska– How that season shaped her mindset and game

– Her goals going into the next chapter


Spanish Setter, NCAA Star, Pro Player: Meet Raquel LĂĄzaro
#65
06/19/2025

Spanish national team setter Raquel Lázaro shares her story—how volleyball took her from Spain NCAA powerhouse programs at USC and Louisville, and now to the professional leagues in Europe. A must-watch for anyone inspired by international volleyball journeys!



Madi Bugg’s Volleyball Journey: From Stanford to LOVB Atlanta
#64
06/11/2025

Stanford All-American. International volleyball veteran. Now, LOVB Atlanta’s leader on the court.Madi Bugg’s story captures the evolution of a setter who’s played the game at every level—and now brings that experience home with League One Volleyball (LOVB). In this video, we explore her path from dominating the NCAA, competing overseas, and helping build something new and exciting with LOVB.Subscribe for more athlete journeys, behind-the-scenes stories, and all things pro volleyball.


Island Life & Volleyball: France's Louis Sakanoko’s Journey to Hawaii
#63
05/28/2025

Discover how French volleyball standout Louis Sakanoko made his way to the University of Hawai‘i and became a rising star for the Rainbow Warriors. From Europe to the NCAA – this is his journey.



She's Changing the Game – Emily Ehman Talks Volleyball, Broadcasting & More
#62
05/22/2025

Emily is a former Northwestern volleyball player turned sports broadcaster based in Chicago. She is a college volleyball analyst for Big Ten Network, ESPN and FOX Sports where she called Nebraska’s women’s sport attendance world record-setting volleyball match in their football stadium in front of 92,003 people as well as Regional matches (round of 16 and eight) for the past two NCAA Tournaments on ESPN. She also doubles as BTN’s Digital Host where she has covered five NCAA Women’s Indoor Volleyball Championships, multiple CFB Playoff games, the Women’s College World Series and much more!


Dan Meske: The Leader Behind Louisville’s Next Volleyball Era
#61
05/14/2025

From player to assistant coach and now head coach, Dan Meske’s story is one of hard work, determination, and a deep love for the game. In this video, we dive into his volleyball roots, the lessons learned along the way, and what his vision is for the future of Louisville Volleyball. This is more than a career—this is a journey of purpose.


Holly McPeak on the Grit, Glory & Growth of a Volleyball Icon
#60
05/06/2025

Join us for an exclusive interview with Holly McPeak, a 3-time Olympian and one of the greatest beach volleyball players in history. In this candid conversation, Holly shares her journey from the courts of UCLA to the Olympic stage, and how she transitioned into her role as a respected sports broadcaster. Whether you're a volleyball fan, an aspiring athlete, or just love stories of perseverance and passion, this is one you won’t want to miss!

– Holly’s Olympic experiences (1996, 2000, 2004)
– The mental and physical grind of elite volleyball
– Life after sports and working in broadcasting
– Adv...


From Mainland to Island: Kurt Nursterer's Volleyball Story
#59
05/02/2025

From first serves to island vibes 🌮🏐 — University of Hawaii’s Kurt Nursterer shares his volleyball journey, why he chose UH, and what makes playing in paradise so special. Hit play to hear his story and get an inside look at Hawaii volleyball!


2024 (Sophomore):Started 28-of-30 matches at middle blockerFinished the season averaging 1.07 kills per set, hitting at a .460 clipLed the team and ranked 10th nationally in blocks per set (1.05)Career-high 10 blocks (1 solo) vs. UC Santa Barbara (March 30)Totaled 18 blocks in three wins at the OUTRIGGER Invitational which earned him Big West Defensive Player of the Week h...


Kentucky's Craig Skinner Reflects: Triumphs, Challenges & Coaching Wisdom
#59
04/25/2025

Leadership. Legacy. Championships. Coach Craig Skinner shares the key elements of building a top-tier team and what drives him to keep winning at the highest level of college volleyball.2020 NCAA National Champion

2020-21 AVCA National Coach of the Year

UK all-time winningest coach

Eight-time SEC Champion (2017, 2018, 2019, 2020-21, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024)

20-straight NCAA Tournament appearances

2024. 2020-21 and 2011 AVCA All-South Region Coach of the Year

2024, 2023, 2020, 2021, 2018, 2017 and 2015 SEC Coach of the Year

2006 USA Junior National Team Head Coach