Pickleball Cheat Code

32 Episodes
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By: CRBN Pickleball

The show for competitive pickleball players who want to level up their game.Hosted by touring pro and top online coach Tanner Tomassi alongside high-level coach and aspiring pro Brodie Smith, Pickleball Cheat Code is your weekly deep dive into what actually wins matches. Whether you’re a 4.0 grinding for gold or a 5.0 chasing a pro dream, this podcast is your shortcut to smarter decisions, better patterns, and more wins. No fluff. No beginner basics. Just real talk from two players who are in the trenches—competing, learning, and leveling up right alongside you. New episodes every week on YouTube, Spotif...

Stop Playing Scared
#29
Today at 11:00 AM

If you’re playing not to lose—you’re already losing. In this episode, Brodie and Tanner talk about how to stop playing scared and start turning defense into offense. They cover how to recognize momentum shifts, use court positioning to your advantage, and turn defensive situations into attacking opportunities. Plus, they break down why anticipation, balance, and mindful drilling are the keys to staying confident under pressure and capitalizing on every rally.

🤑 Get 10% off any CRBN product at crbnpickleball.com (including the
Trufoam Waves). Use code PCC

❓Got questions? Send us a v...


Skinny Singles is a Cheat Code
#28
10/22/2025

Skinny singles isn’t just a drill—it’s one of the best cheat codes for improving your doubles game. In this episode, Brodie and Tanner break down why every serious player should be using skinny singles to sharpen their angles, consistency, and discipline. They cover how it helps simplify decision-making, improve drops and drives, and force smarter court positioning. Whether you’re training solo or with a partner, this episode will show you how to turn skinny singles into your secret weapon for doubles success.

🤑 Get 10% off any CRBN product at crbnpickleball.com (including the
Tr...


Pickleball Q&A: Your Questions Answered
#27
10/15/2025

You asked—we answered. In this special Q&A episode, Brodie and Tanner tackle your most-requested pickleball questions straight from the PCC voicemail line. From when to speed up during a dink rally, to how to master your third shot drop against fast drives, to the strategy behind body bags (and whether you should go for them at all), this one’s packed with real questions and practical cheat codes.

🤑 Get 10% off any CRBN product at crbnpickleball.com (including the
Trufoam Waves). Use code PCC

❓Got questions? Send us a voicemail...


Mastering the Right Side in Pickleball
#26
10/08/2025

The right side doesn’t get as much glory—but it wins just as many matches. In this episode, Brodie and Tanner break down what it takes to be an elite right side player, from mastering consistency and cross-court dinks to knowing when to slide, roll, or counter. They cover how height, reach, and controlled aggression help you dominate the mid-court, and why mental toughness and reliability make the right side a cornerstone of great doubles teams.

🤑 Get 10% off any CRBN product at crbnpickleball.com (including the
Trufoam Waves). Use code PCC

❓...


CRBN TruFoam Waves Review
10/06/2025

Thinking about trying the CRBN TruFoam Waves paddle but not sure if it’s worth the hype? In this bonus episode, Brodie gives a full, unfiltered breakdown of the new Waves—what makes it different from the original TruFoam Genesis, who it’s best suited for, and why it might (or might not) fit your game. From its redesigned “wave” core that boosts both feel and plow-through power, to the insane dwell time that lets the ball sit on the face longer for more control, this one’s for players who want to understand how the paddle actually plays before pulli...


Left Side Secrets Every Player Should Know
#25
10/01/2025

 The left side isn’t just a spot on the court—it’s where games are won or lost. In this episode, Brodie and Tanner break down why the left side player is often the “quarterback” of the team, what makes a great left-side specialist, and how to transition successfully if you’ve been playing the right. From mobility and consistency in dinking to leadership and creativity in setting up points, this episode gives you the blueprint for becoming a dominant left side player.

🤑 Get 10% off any CRBN product at crbnpickleball.com (including the
Trufoam Waves...


Footwork: The Most Important Skill in Pickleball
#24
09/24/2025

If you want to level up your pickleball game, start with your feet. In this episode, Brodie and Tanner break down why footwork is the most important skill in pickleball, how the “sexy foot drag” keeps you balanced and in control, and which drills will actually make you quicker and more stable on court. Plus, Tanner shares about a recent controversial line call at APP Chicago and why integrity and sportsmanship matter just as much as your skills.


🤑 Get 10% off any CRBN product at crbnpickleball.com (including the
Trufoam Waves). Use code


Playing with a Weaker Partner
#23
09/17/2025

Playing with a weaker partner doesn’t mean you have to play weaker pickleball. In this episode of Pickleball Cheat Code, Brodie and Tanner share the strategies, communication tips, and mindset shifts that let you lift your partner’s performance while still playing your best game. They cover when to take control, how to boost your partner’s confidence, and the subtle tactics that can turn an uneven pairing into a winning team.

🤑 Get 10% off any CRBN product at crbnpickleball.com (including the
Trufoam Waves). Use code PCC

❓Got questions? Send us a v...


Handling Bangers
#22
09/10/2025

Bangers can throw you off your game fast—unless you know how to handle them. In this episode, Brodie and Tanner break down the strategies and positioning that take the sting out of big drives. They cover the “rope rule” for smart court positioning, paddle angles for effective blocks, and why staying loose is key to controlling fast shots. Plus, they share tips on returning serves to disrupt rhythm, exploiting weaknesses, and knowing when to respect the drive instead of forcing a risky counter.

🤑 Get 10% off any CRBN product at crbnpickleball.com (including the
Trufoam W...


Think Like a Pro: The Mental Game of Pickleball
#21
09/03/2025

The difference between winning and losing often comes down to what’s happening between your ears. In this episode, Brodie and Tanner break down the mental side of pickleball—from controlling your ego to stress testing an opponent’s weaknesses. They cover how a higher pickleball IQ leads to better decisions, why tracking your shot stats matters, and how visualizing your game can improve accuracy. Plus, they share strategies for controlling tempo, staying patient, and winning long rallies.

🤑 Get 10% off any CRBN product at crbnpickleball.com (including the
Trufoam Waves). Use code PCC


From Tennis to Pickleball: Transition Tips
#20
08/27/2025

Making the jump from tennis to pickleball isn’t just about swapping rackets—it’s a full shift in strategy, technique, and mindset. In this episode, Brodie sits down with pro player Thomas Wilson to talk about the key adjustments tennis players need to make when stepping onto a pickleball court. From mastering the kitchen game and developing offense on both sides, to aggressive dinks, footwork, and grip pressure, Thomas shares what it really takes to thrive in the sport. Whether you’re a tennis convert or a pure pickleballer, this episode is packed with insights that can sharpen your gam...


To Stack or Not to Stack
#19
08/20/2025

Stacking isn’t just for pros—it’s a strategic tool any competitive player can use to maximize strengths, hide weaknesses, and control the court. In this episode, Brodie and Tanner break down when to stack, when to half stack, and when you’re better off playing straight up. They cover the advantages for left-handed players, how mid-point switching can throw opponents off, and why mixed doubles positioning changes the game. Plus, they share the key traits each court side demands so you can set up your team for success.

🤑 Get 10% off any CRBN product at crbnpick...


Getting Aggressive on Court
#18
08/13/2025

 Sometimes the best defense is a good offense. In this episode of Pickleball Cheat Code, Brodie and Tanner break down how to get aggressive on court without losing control. They cover when to speed up, how to poach effectively, and why your footwork might be the difference between a winning drive and a gift-wrapped pop-up for your opponents. You’ll learn how to apply pressure with purpose—whether through flicks, rolls, or well-timed positioning—and why controlled aggression will win you more points than reckless play ever could.

Pre-order Tanner's book: "Pickleball in 60 Seconds" (out December 9th, 2025)

🤑...


Developing Your Backhand
#17
08/06/2025

Your backhand doesn’t have to be a weakness. In this episode, Brodie and Tanner break down exactly how to build a strong, confident backhand—from mechanics and drills to pro-level strategy. Tanner shares the technical shift that transformed his backhand, and they look at what makes players like Ben Johns and Connor Garnett so dangerous from their non-dominant side.


🤑 Get 10% off any CRBN product at crbnpickleball.com (including the
Trufoam Waves). Use code PCC

❓Got questions? Send us a voicemail: memo.fm/pcc

🌐 More info...


Cheat Codes to Increase Your DUPR
#16
07/30/2025

 Want a higher DUPR? Brodie and Tanner break down their top 5 cheat codes to improve your rating—from smart tournament strategy to who you’re drilling with. Whether you're chasing pro status or just trying to crack 4.5, this episode has the insights you need to climb. Plus: what the latest DUPR algorithm changes mean for players, and why Brodie nearly passed out at the Montreal Open.

🤑 Get 10% off any CRBN product at crbnpickleball.com (including the
Trufoam Waves). Use code PCC

❓Got questions? Send us a voicemail: memo.fm/pcc

...


Behind the TruFoam Genesis 4 (and how to win one)
#15
07/23/2025

The TruFoam Genesis 4 is finally here—and today, we’re telling the full story behind the most anticipated CRBN release yet. From early fails to final launch, we’re walking through the design process with CRBN co-founders Kyle Goguen and Garrett Gosselin. We’ll cover who the TFG4 is perfect for (and who it’s not), what kind of feedback shaped the final build, and how to think about paddle selection like a pro.

Plus: we’re giving one away.

💥 HOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY
 
Want a chance to win your own TFG4?


Pro Secrets from APP Gold Champion
#14
07/16/2025

 Tanner Tomassi just won gold—and today we’re breaking it all down. From quarterfinals to the championship match, we’re digging into the matchups, momentum swings, and mindset behind a dominant APP performance. Plus, what it’s like to play under pressure, how to build elite-level chemistry with a partner, and what Tanner’s win means for what’s next.

🎙 Enjoying the show? Leave us a rating & review!


🤑 Get 10% off any CRBN product at crbnpickleball.com (including the
Trufoam Waves). Use code PCC

❓Got questions? S...


Win More Pickleball Tournaments
#13
07/09/2025

 You trained. You drilled. You planned your strategy. Now it’s game day—and all that prep only matters if you execute. In this episode, we break down how to stay locked in mentally and physically throughout your tournament: from mindset, momentum, and timeouts to cooling down and recovering right. Whether you're chasing gold or just looking for a personal best, this one's for you.

🎙 Enjoying the show? Leave a rating & review!


🤑 Get 10% off any CRBN product at crbnpickleball.com (including the
Trufoam Waves). Use code PCC

...


Mastering the Pickleball Reset
#12
07/02/2025

 Resets might not make the highlight reel—but they win matches. In this episode, we dive deep into the mechanics of great resets: when to use them, how to stay relaxed under pressure, and why high-margin targets are key. Plus, Tanner breaks down his “bunt” technique, and we discuss the highly anticipated TruFoam Genesis 4 (dropping 7/23!)

🤑 Get 10% off any CRBN product at crbnpickleball.com (including the
Trufoam Waves). Use code PCC

❓Got questions? Send us a voicemail: memo.fm/pcc

🌐 More info & listen anywhere: https://www.pickleballc...


Drill Smarter, Not Harder
#11
06/25/2025

Drilling can make or break your progress—but most players are doing it wrong. In this episode, we talk through how to make your practice time intentional, how to tell if your drilling is actually working, and what kinds of reps are underrated. Plus, why singles training might secretly level up your doubles game.

🤑 Get 10% off any CRBN product at crbnpickleball.com (including the
Trufoam Waves). Use code PCC

❓Got questions? Send us a voicemail: memo.fm/pcc

🌐 More info & listen anywhere: https://www.pickleballcheatcode.com


Top Pickleball Mistakes to Avoid
#10
06/18/2025

 Some advice in the pickleball world just… doesn’t hold up. In this episode, we break down the biggest amateur mistakes we see (even at the pro level), and the myths that might be holding you back. We’re talking timing, paddle tracking, poaching decisions, and the importance of balance—plus Tanner shares wild stories from the Peruvian pickleball scene.


🤑 Get 10% off any CRBN product at crbnpickleball.com (including the
Trufoam Waves). Use code PCC

❓Got questions? Send us a voicemail: memo.fm/pcc

🌐 Mo...


Choosing the Right Paddle & Gear w/ Chris Olson
#9
06/11/2025

 Your paddle might be holding you back—and the right one could level up your game instantly. In this episode, we’re joined by Chris Olson of Pickleball Studio to break down paddle tech, paddle shape, lead tape, and how to build the perfect setup for your style of play.


🤑 Get 10% off any CRBN product at crbnpickleball.com (including the
Trufoam Waves). Use code PCC

❓Got questions? Send us a voicemail: memo.fm/pcc

🌐 More info & listen anywhere: https://www.pickleballcheatcode.com


Dominating Defense with Allyce Jones
#8
06/04/2025

She’s fast, fearless, and fired up about defense. This week, we’re joined by pro player Allyce Jones to break down how to dominate on defense—including footwork, communication, and mindset. Plus, how her volleyball background gives her an edge and what she sees coming next for the game.

🤑 Get 10% off any CRBN product at crbnpickleball.com (including the
Trufoam Waves). Use code PCC

❓Got questions? Send us a voicemail: memo.fm/pcc

🌐 More info & listen anywhere: https://www.pickleballcheatcode.com


Tournament Prep That Wins Matches
#7
05/28/2025

If you want to win, your prep starts before the tournament. This week, we’re diving into how to use rec games to get tournament-ready, scout your team’s strengths and weaknesses, and create a flexible game plan that can adapt on the fly. Plus, how to mentally and physically prep on game day.

🤑 Get 10% off any CRBN product at crbnpickleball.com (including the
Trufoam Waves). Use code PCC

❓Got questions? Send us a voicemail: memo.fm/pcc

🌐 ...


How to Win Hands Battles
#6
05/21/2025

Hands battles are fast, chaotic—and absolutely winnable if you know what you’re doing. This week, we break down how to control the ball's height, stay calm under pressure, and train your hands to react faster than your opponent’s. Plus, we build the Mount Rushmore of the perfect pro pickleball player. 


🤑 Get 10% off any CRBN product at crbnpickleball.com (including the
Trufoam Waves). Use code PCC

❓Got questions? Send us a voicemail: memo.fm/pcc

🌐 More info & listen anywhere: https://www.pickleballcheat


Control the Kitchen (NVZ)
#5
05/14/2025

The Kitchen is where games are won—or lost. This week, we're diving into what it takes to own the NVZ: applying pressure, forcing mistakes, and becoming the kind of player your opponents are afraid to hit to. Plus: what Tanner learned from his US Open experience, and why smart aggression beats mindless consistency at the highest level. Subscribe so you never miss a tip to level up your game.

🤑 Get 10% off any CRBN product at crbnpickleball.com (including the
Trufoam Waves). Use code PCC

❓Got questions? Send us a voicema...


Dink Like a Pro
#4
05/07/2025

Want to win more dink battles? We’re breaking down pro-level dinking strategies—from how to isolate opponents in two-on-one scenarios to the critical drills you probably aren’t spending time on. Plus: Tanner melts Brodie’s brain with his side-spin backhand tip, and we analyze the unique dinking styles of top players. Subscribe so you never miss a tip to level up your game.

🤑 Get 10% off any CRBN product at crbnpickleball.com (including the
Trufoam Waves). Use code PCC

❓Got questions? Send us a voicemail: memo.fm/pcc

🌐 M...


Mastering the Midcourt
#3
04/30/2025

Struggling in the transition zone? In this episode, we break down how to master the midcourt—when to reset vs. attack, why your split-step timing matters, and how cross-court resets can be your cheat code. Plus: how Brodie turns drilling into a game. 

Leave a review with your biggest takeaway—we want to hear what’s clicking for you!

🤑 Get 10% off any CRBN product at crbnpickleball.com (including the
Trufoam Waves). Use code PCC

❓Got questions? Send us a voicemail: memo.fm/pcc

🌐 More info & listen a...


3rd Shot Drops & Drives
#2
04/30/2025

Should you drop or drive your third shot? This episode dives into the decision-making behind one of the most critical shots in pickleball. Brodie and Tanner break down when to drop vs. drive, how pros adjust based on the situation, and what the form, grip, and targets should actually look like. Learn how to play to your team's strengths, apply pressure, and use thirds to set up points—especially in mixed doubles. Plus: hybrid shots, shake & bake timing, and Brodie’s takeaways from competing at the first PPA Challenger. 

Listen now, then queue up our episo...


Serving & Returning
#1
04/30/2025

Want to level up your serve and return game? This episode breaks down what separates high-level players from amateurs—including the four most important serve skills, strategic return placement, and how to eliminate common errors. Brodie and Tanner also dive into the mental side of serving, game-tested drills, and why this part of the game is more important than most players realize. Plus: the differences in singles vs. doubles serve tactics, and what Tanner learned playing Ben Johns. 

Subscribe and queue up our episode on 3rd Shot Drops & Drives—available now.

🤑 Get 10% off any <...


Behind the Mic: Meet Your PCC Hosts
04/30/2025

Competitive player? Trying to level up your game? Meet 6.0 touring pro Tanner Tomassi (yes, that guy from your Instagram drills) and 5.5 player/coach Brodie Smith (+ CRBN community manager). They’re obsessed with strategy, decision-making, and the mental side of pickleball—and they’re bringing you along for the ride.
New episodes weekly. Share with your group chat, your doubles partner, or whoever handed you a paddle.

🤑 Get 10% off any CRBN product at crbnpickleball.com (including the
Trufoam Waves). Use code PCC

❓Got questions? Send us a voicemail: memo.fm/pcc

...


Start Here: What is Pickleball Cheat Code?
04/22/2025

Pickleball Cheat Code is the show for competitive players who want to level up their game. 🏓📈 Every week our hosts, Tanner Tommasi and Brodie Smith, share shortcuts to being a better player based on their real world experience. Each short, power-packed episode has the strategy and technique you need to win-coming from growth-driven pros who want to help you get better, faster. This show isn’t for beginners or casual players, but if you’re serious about winning, press play. 

New episodes every Wednesday! Watch the show on YouTube and Spotify, or listen wherever you get your podcasts. <...