Explore every episode of the podcast Better Together

In Part 2 of our conversation with Kaelin “Coach Kae” Steele, we dig deeper into what she's learned about coaching, success, and the importance of knowing the athletes behind the jerseys.

Kaelin reflects on her Coach of the Year season with 18 White and how coaching a group with different goals challenged her to adjust her approach and focus on giving each athlete an experience they could be proud of. She shares why player-coach relationships and mental check-ins have become such an important part of her coaching, and how her definition of a successful season has evolved beyond simply wins and losses.

We also look ahead to her upcoming season with 17 Blue, the areas where she's still challenging herself to grow, and why building relationships and team chemistry starts long before the first match.

And to close it out, Coach Kae shares what Better Together means to her after growing alongside United from nearly the beginning.

What happens when you accidentally walk into the wrong tryout and discover a sport that becomes a major part of your life?

In Part 1 of our conversation with Kaelin “Coach Kae” Steele, we go back to where her volleyball story began, from showing up to volleyball tryouts by mistake to discovering what she calls a “positive distraction” during an important season of her life.

Coach Kae shares how she made the transition from player to coach, what she learned by starting as an assistant and simply being willing to observe, and how she's grown from a timid young coach trying to find her voice into a confident head coach and United's 2026 Coach of the Year.

She and Korohen also talk about the confidence that comes with experience, why making mistakes is part of becoming a better coach, and one of the biggest lessons Coach Kae learned during her first season as a head coach: let athletes be proud of themselves, have fun, and enjoy the moments they've worked for.

This is Part 1 of our conversation with Coach Kae. Stay tuned for Part 2!

No two college recruiting journeys look exactly the same.

In this special Better Together recruiting recap, we’re revisiting conversations with Alicia Krichev, Eli Hester, Audrey Cagle, and Audrey Krichev to hear four very different perspectives on finding the right path to college volleyball.

From navigating the process as a family and starting recruiting later than expected, to choosing a school based on academics and finding an unexpected way back to the game, these stories are a reminder that recruiting doesn’t have to follow one specific timeline or formula.

Whether you’re just beginning the process, somewhere in the middle of it, or wondering if your journey looks different from everyone else’s, this episode offers perspective, encouragement, and a reminder to focus on finding the path that fits you.

What do college coaches really look for during the recruiting process?

In this special Better Together recruiting recap, we’re revisiting conversations with Tristan Johnson of UNA Indoor Volleyball, Kaleb VanDePerre of UNA Beach Volleyball, and Betsy Freeburg of UAB Volleyball to hear recruiting from the coaches’ side.

From getting noticed and communicating with coaches to highlight film, grades, finding the right fit, and the qualities that matter beyond talent, these three coaches share insight every athlete and parent navigating the recruiting process should hear.

Whether college volleyball is a future goal or recruiting is already underway, this episode is full of practical advice to help you approach the process with more confidence and intention.

In the final part of our conversation with United Programming Coordinator Celeste Walton, we're bringing her story home to United.

Celeste shares what ultimately brought her back to Alabama, what stood out to her about United, and why our commitment to creating opportunities for athletes at every level made this feel like the right place for her.

We also go behind the scenes of great programming and talk about what parents may not always see: the planning, adapting, problem-solving, and heart that go into creating an environment where athletes can learn, grow, and feel safe enough to make mistakes.

Plus, Celeste shares what she's most excited to grow at United and what "Better Together" means to her, not only for athletes, but for coaches who are willing to learn from one another, share what they know, and continue raising the level of the game together.

We're so excited to have Celeste as part of the United family and can't wait to see the impact she'll make in the gym this season!

In Part 2 of our conversation with United Programming Coordinator Celeste Walton, we're diving deeper into what it means to coach the athlete in front of you.

Celeste and Korohen talk about the lessons that come with coaching athletes at every age, from learning patience and adaptability with younger players to keeping older athletes challenged, engaged, and connected to their role on a team.

They also discuss navigating burnout, understanding that every role matters, and what it means to add value to your team whether you're on the court or supporting your teammates from the sideline.

And finally, Celeste shares the coaching philosophy at the heart of how she wants to impact athletes: Elevate and Empower.

Elevate who they are as people and players. Empower their confidence, their voices, and their ability to advocate for themselves.

Because the impact of a great coach reaches far beyond the volleyball court.

We're excited to welcome a new face to the United family!

In Part 1 of our conversation with United's new Programming Coordinator, Celeste Walton, we get to know the person behind the coach and hear about the volleyball journey that ultimately brought her to United.

Celeste shares how she first fell in love with the game, her experience playing multiple positions and competing at the collegiate level, and the coaches who helped shape the way she approaches athletes today. She also opens up about discovering her own calling to coach and why developing the next generation of young women means so much to her.

Plus, Celeste and Korohen talk about finding your voice, where confidence really comes from, and why putting in the work can give athletes the confidence to make mistakes, learn from them, and keep growing.

We're thankful to have Celeste as part of United and can't wait for you to get to know her.

• How Celeste first discovered volleyball
• Going from libero to middle and eventually playing nearly every position
• How club volleyball fueled her love for the game
• The coaches who took the time to teach, challenge, and believe in her
• Celeste's collegiate volleyball experience
• How volleyball helped Celeste come out of her shell and find her voice
• Why great coaching requires finding different ways to reach different athletes
• The connection between preparation, repetition, and confidence
• Why doing the work can give athletes the confidence to make mistakes
• Helping young athletes explore their limits instead of fearing failure

Celeste Walton

Programming Coordinator, United Volleyball

Huntsville Hair Company, the official sponsor of the Better Together podcast.

As athletes prepare for a new season, we're continuing our look back at one of our most valuable conversations with registered dietitian Alyssum Reno-Smith.

In Part 2, Alyssum gets practical about what fueling can actually look like during a busy tournament weekend — from early morning matches and long days at the convention center to traveling, limited recovery time, and making sure athletes have what they need in their bags.

We also talk about recognizing the signs of under-fueling, building healthy habits without creating restriction or fear around food, navigating nutrition misinformation on social media, and helping young athletes take ownership of their fueling as they grow.

In this episode, we discuss:

• How to plan nutrition around multi-day tournament weekends
• What athletes should eat before, during, and after competition
• Simple foods and snacks to keep on hand while traveling
• How to prepare for early morning matches and limited recovery time
• Why planning ahead can make tournament nutrition much easier
• Signs that an athlete may be under-fueling
• How parents can support healthy eating without becoming overly restrictive
• Helping athletes develop a positive relationship with food
• Whether different volleyball positions have different nutritional needs
• Why hydration should be proactive, not just based on thirst
• How to make small, sustainable changes to everyday nutrition
• How to identify nutrition misinformation and social media red flags
• Common nutrition myths about carbs, fruit, protein bars, and pre-match eating
• Why consistency matters more than perfection when it comes to fueling

Whether you're an athlete, parent, or coach, this conversation is full of practical reminders about preparing, fueling, hydrating, and supporting athletes in a way that helps them perform — both on the court and beyond it.

If you missed Part 1, be sure to go back and listen to the first half of our conversation with Alyssum for even more on the connection between nutrition, focus, energy, and performance.

As athletes head back into the gym and prepare for a new season, we're looking back on one of our most valuable conversations.

In this archived episode, registered dietitian Alyssum Reno-Smith joins us to discuss the powerful connection between nutrition and athletic performance. From brain function and decision making to hydration, anxiety, and sustained energy, Alyssum explains why what athletes eat before and during competition matters just as much as what they do in practice.

Whether you're listening for the first time or revisiting this conversation, the information is just as relevant today as it was when we first released it.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Why under-fueling can increase anxiety, shakiness, and mental mistakes
• How nutrition supports the nervous system, focus, and confidence
• Why carbohydrates are the brain's primary fuel
• The truth about energy drinks and pre-competition fueling
• Smart snack ideas for tournaments and long training days
• Why skipping meals before competition can hurt performance
• How hydration affects decision making and reaction time
• Common fueling misconceptions among athletes and parents
• Simple nutrition habits that support more consistent performance

Whether you're an athlete, parent, or coach, this conversation is packed with practical, evidence-based advice to help athletes perform at their best.

Be sure to join us next week as we revisit Part 2 of our conversation with Alyssum.

We wrap up our three-part conversation with professional volleyball player and United ambassador Merritt Beason by talking about the lessons she's still learning - and the ones she hopes to pass on.

From coaching young athletes and navigating difficult decisions to confidence, accountability, self-talk, and finding your voice, Merritt shares the perspective she's gained both on and off the court.

She also reflects on balancing high expectations with grace, why confidence isn't something you always feel, and what it really means to keep growing as an athlete, coach, and person.

• Questions young athletes should be asking more often
• Balancing accountability with grace as a coach
• Helping athletes separate performance from self-worth
• What confidence really looks like
• Finding your voice while remaining respectful
• The importance of effort, energy, and buy-in
• Practical strategies for managing negative self-talk
• Merritt's definition of "Better Together"

In Part 2 of our conversation with Merritt Beason, we go even deeper into what life really looks like as a professional volleyball player.

From long travel days and recovery routines to nutrition, self-care, and learning to give yourself grace, Merritt shares the parts of professional volleyball that fans rarely get to see.

She also reflects on the importance of finding what works for you, protecting your own well-being, and the role that faith, mentorship, and trusted relationships have played throughout her journey.

Most importantly, Merritt shares why she hopes young athletes learn to be kinder to themselves long before they reach the highest levels of the game.

Whether you're an athlete, parent, or coach, this episode is filled with practical wisdom and honest perspective that reaches far beyond volleyball.

This week on Better Together, we're joined once again by United ambassador and professional volleyball player Merritt Beason.

Fresh off another day in the gym with our athletes, Merritt sits down with Korohen to reflect on everything that's happened over the past year, from coaching and mentoring to competing with the Omaha Supernovas and making a run to the professional championship match.

But this conversation isn't just about volleyball.

Merritt opens up about confidence, self-talk, vulnerability, social media, handling criticism, and why growth doesn't stop once you reach the highest levels of the game. She shares what she's still learning, how coaching has changed her perspective, and why being honest about the struggles behind the scenes has become one of the most rewarding parts of her journey.

Whether you're an athlete navigating evaluations, a parent supporting your player, or simply someone learning to embrace growth, this conversation is a reminder that no one has it all figured out.

Evaluations are here, and with them come excitement, nerves, and plenty of questions.

In Part 2 of our Ask the Directors series, Korohen and Scott shift the conversation from how evaluations work to how athletes and families can make the most of the experience.

They discuss:

• Why the right team is often more important than the highest team

• How athletes can prepare mentally and physically for evaluations

• What parents can do to best support their athlete

• Green flags and red flags coaches notice during evaluations

• How to move on after mistakes

• Why every athlete's journey looks different

Whether your athlete is stepping into their first evaluation or has been through the process before, this conversation is full of practical advice and encouragement for evaluation week.

Scott and Korohen answer the biggest questions families ask before evaluations - from how athletes are assessed to what coaches are actually looking for.

Evaluation season is almost here, and with it comes a lot of questions—and a lot of nerves.

In Part 1 of this Ask the Directors series, Scott and Korohen take listeners behind the scenes of United's evaluation process to explain how teams are formed, what coaches are actually evaluating, and why the process is designed the way it is.

They discuss:

• Why evaluations now happen in the summer

• What coaches are really looking for beyond volleyball skills

• How communication, coachability, and competitiveness influence evaluations

• Common misconceptions parents have about team selection

• Why one mistake won't ruin an evaluation

• What happens behind the scenes before athletes ever step into the gym

Whether this is your family's first evaluation season or your tenth, this episode offers practical insight to help athletes walk into the gym with confidence.

Be sure to tune in next week for Part 2, where Scott and Korohen answer even more of your biggest evaluation questions!

Sophie Krichev is back on Better Together.

When Sophie first joined the podcast, she was preparing to begin her collegiate volleyball career at UT Arlington. Now, after completing her freshman season, she returns to share what life at the Division I level has really been like.

From adjusting to college athletics and building confidence as a freshman starter to navigating life away from home and developing strong relationships with teammates, Sophie offers an honest look at the transition from club volleyball to college volleyball.

She also shares the lessons she learned about confidence, self-talk, coachability, leadership, and why "working hard works."

Whether you're a current athlete, a parent, or someone preparing for the recruiting process, Sophie's perspective offers valuable insight into what happens after the commitment announcement and what it takes to grow at the next level.

Summer can feel like a race to fit everything in - camps, clinics, workouts, open gyms, vacations, jobs, and more. But does being busier actually help athletes improve?

In this solo episode, Korohen challenges athletes and families to rethink what productive summer training really looks like. Instead of chasing every opportunity, he shares why the most successful athletes often focus on a few intentional goals, prioritize recovery, and stay committed to consistent growth.

• The difference between activity and true development
• Why athletes should focus on just 2–3 priorities
• The role recovery plays in performance and growth
• How social media can create unhealthy comparison
• What coaches are really looking for at evaluations
• A simple three-goal challenge for the rest of the summer

Whether you're preparing for evaluations, school season, or simply looking to make the most of your off season, this episode offers practical advice for building a summer that leads to long-term development - not burnout.

Continuing our conversation with United Birmingham Director Ryan Freeburg, we dive into recruiting, player development, exposure, and the future of volleyball in Alabama.

Ryan shares his perspective as both a club director and Division I coach, discussing what helps athletes get recruited, why exposure matters, the importance of skill development at younger ages, and the challenges that can come from prioritizing short-term results over long-term growth.

We also discuss confidence, attacking mechanics, communication, coaching philosophy, and Ryan's vision for year two of United Birmingham.

In Part 2 of our conversation with Ryan, we discuss:

• the current state of volleyball in Alabama
• recruiting and player exposure
• what college coaches are actually looking for
• the importance of high-level competition
• youth skill development
• confidence and long-term athlete growth
• winning now versus developing future players
• attacking mechanics and injury prevention
• communication between setters and hitters
• technical skills versus tactical strategies
• coaching philosophy and player development
• Ryan's vision for year two of United Birmingham

Whether you're an athlete, parent, or coach, this conversation offers valuable perspective on what it takes to build better volleyball players over the long term.

One year after launching United Birmingham, we sit down with Club Director Ryan Freeburg to reflect on what the journey has been like so far.

Ryan shares the challenges and rewards of building a club from the ground up, creating a healthy environment for athletes and families, developing coaches, and establishing a culture centered around growth, trust, and teamwork.

We also discuss the unique landscape of volleyball in Birmingham, the importance of balancing individual goals with team success, and what it takes to build something meaningful from the ground up.

This conversation offers an honest look at leadership, culture, communication, and the lessons learned throughout United Birmingham's first year.

In part two of our conversation with longtime coach Perry Robinson, we dive into the mental side of volleyball and athlete development.

Perry shares perspective on confidence, pressure, perfectionism, reset rituals, and what often holds athletes back mentally both in practice and competition. We also discuss overtraining, meaningful reps versus simply logging hours, coachability, leadership, and how coaches can better help athletes navigate mistakes and adversity.

This episode is full of practical insight and honest conversation for athletes, coaches, and parents alike.

Show Notes:

In Part 2 of our conversation with Perry Robinson, we explore:

• confidence and whether it can be trained
• helping athletes manage negative thoughts
• reset rituals and mental recovery during matches
• perfectionism in athletes
• meaningful reps vs overtraining
• what truly makes a player coachable
• leadership and player ownership
• balancing emotion and composure as a coach
• the mental side of competition and development
• building stronger athletes through communication and trust

Korohen and I recently sat down in Birmingham with longtime coach Perry Robinson, head coach at Pelham High School and coach for United Birmingham.

With nearly three decades of coaching experience across the college, club, and high school levels, Perry shares insight into how his approach to coaching has evolved over the years and why relationships, patience, and perspective matter so much in athlete development.

Throughout the conversation, we dive into player growth, navigating frustration, building trust with athletes, creating healthy team environments, and what both players and young coaches often overlook when it comes to long term development.

Perry shares:

• lessons learned through decades of coaching experience
• how his coaching philosophy has evolved over time
• the importance of patience and long term player development
• why consistency and showing up matter
• balancing structure, empathy, and accountability as a coach
• helping athletes navigate frustration and growth
• advice for younger coaches trying to find their footing
• why relationships and trust are such an important part of coaching

This episode is full of wisdom, honesty, and perspective for coaches, athletes, and parents alike.

Continuing our conversation with UAB Head Volleyball Coach Betsy Freeburg, she shares insight into the recruiting process from a Division I coach’s perspective, including what truly stands out during recruiting, the difference between potential and consistency, common mistakes athletes make, and what players can do to better prepare for the next level.

We also dive into the mental side of college volleyball, handling pressure and expectations, and the reality of transitioning from club and high school volleyball into the college game.

Betsy shares insight on:

• recruiting the person, not just the athlete
• what catches a coach’s attention during evaluation
• the difference between potential and consistency
• common recruiting mistakes athletes unintentionally make
• why exposure and fit both matter
• what college coaches are really looking for in highlight videos
• the mental transition from club volleyball to the college game
• how athletes can better prepare for the next level

This conversation is full of perspective and practical takeaways for athletes, parents, and coaches navigating the recruiting process!

In Part 1 of our conversation with UAB Head Volleyball Coach Betsy Freeburg, we sit down inside her office at UAB to talk through her journey from player to Division I head coach.

Betsy shares how she accidentally found volleyball, what led her to Florida, the adversity she faced early in her college career, and how those experiences ultimately shaped her into the coach and leader she is today.

We also dive into:

• the reality of playing at a high level
• handling setbacks and delayed success
• identity outside of sports
• the transition from player to coach
• leading a program during the uncertainty of 2020
• perspective shifts that changed the way she coaches today

This conversation is honest, reflective, and full of insight for athletes, parents, and coaches alike. Join us next week as we continue the conversation!

This week we’re bringing back one of our most helpful conversations around the college recruiting process with United coach Alicia Krichev.

If recruiting has ever felt confusing, overwhelming, or like you’re falling behind, this episode is for you.

We talk through what the process actually looks like today, including timelines, the impact of the transfer portal, and why most athletes don’t hear from coaches right away. Alicia also shares how families can stay grounded through it all, what really matters to recruiters beyond stats, and how to support your athlete without adding pressure.

Most importantly, this conversation is a reminder that every athlete’s path is different. There’s no one “right” timeline, and comparison will only take you out of your own journey.

If you’re an athlete or parent navigating recruiting, this is one to come back to.

In Part 3 of our conversation with UNA Beach Volleyball Head Coach Kaleb Vandeperre, we dive into the mental side of the game - and what truly holds athletes back from reaching their potential.

From comparison and perfectionism to confidence and identity, this episode explores the internal battles athletes face and how to work through them.

Coach Vandeperre shares honest insight on what he sees at the college level, how athletes can separate themselves mentally, and the importance of understanding who you are beyond your sport.

We also get into:

– Why comparison is one of the biggest traps in sports

– The danger of perfectionism and hesitation

– How to help quieter athletes find their voice

– What college coaches wish athletes understood earlier

– The role of identity in performance and confidence

– Whether energy can actually be coached

Plus, a rapid-fire segment packed with real, practical takeaways for athletes navigating their journey.

If you’re an athlete (or parent) trying to better understand the mental side of performance and recruitment, this is a must-listen.

In Part 2 of our conversation with UNA Beach Volleyball Head Coach Kaleb Vandeperre, we dive into the recruiting process, what actually matters to college coaches, and how athletes can better navigate the journey.

From debunking common myths about beach volleyball opportunities to breaking down what separates athletes at the next level, this episode is packed with insight for players and parents alike.

Coach Vandeperre shares how he evaluates athletes beyond just performance, why “joy” and mindset matter more than you think, and what athletes often get wrong when trying to get recruited.

We also explore:

– Beach vs. indoor skill translation

– What coaches notice (and what they don’t)

– How communication and partnership impact success in beach volleyball

– The importance of honesty and alignment in the recruiting process

If you're serious about playing at the next level - or just want a clearer understanding of what that path actually looks like, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.

Part 2 Highlights:

• The biggest myths about beach volleyball recruiting
• Why opportunities are more available than athletes think
• What coaches look for first
• The role of joy, resilience, and mindset in recruiting
• Honest conversations athletes need to have before committing
• Beach vs. indoor: what translates and what doesn’t
• The importance of communication in 2-person teams
• How great partners build confidence in each other

We recently took a little trip to the University of North Alabama and had the pleasure of speaking with UNA Beach Volleyball head coach Kaleb Vandeperre about the foundation of what it really means to be a college athlete.

From an unconventional path into volleyball to building a competitive beach program at UNA, Coach Caleb shares his journey and the values that shape how he leads.

We dive into the concept of “confident identity” - what it means, why it matters, and how it impacts performance far beyond the court. This conversation challenges the idea that results come first and instead explores how mindset, belief, and self-awareness create lasting growth.

We also get a behind-the-scenes look at the life of a college beach volleyball athlete, including training, travel, recovery, and the demands that come with competing at the next level.

Join us back next week to hear more!

• What “confident identity” means and why it matters
• Why performance should come after identity, not before
• Helping athletes separate who they are from results
• What college beach volleyball actually looks like week to week
• Travel, training, and recovery at the college level
• Common misconceptions about beach volleyball

As our season continues and teams head into qualifiers, we’re revisiting Part 2 of our conversation with United Club Ambassador, Merritt Beason - now playing professionally with the Omaha Supernovas!

In this episode, Merritt shifts the conversation from recruiting to what it actually takes to grow and sustain success at a high level. She also gives a real look into routines, preparation, and how she stays grounded - even in the biggest moments.

She shares insight on:

• The mental side of the game and why it’s often overlooked
• What confidence actually looks like - and how to build it
• Learning how to advocate for yourself and “hold your space”
• What people don’t talk about when it comes to high-level athletes
• Why relationships and trust matter in high-pressure moments

We’re in the middle of a busy stretch of the season - travel, qualifiers, and everything that comes with it.

So this week, we’re revisiting a conversation that speaks to more than just performance.

In Part 1 with United Club Ambassador Merritt Beason (now with the Omaha Supernovas), we talk about recruiting, pressure, identity, and what it looks like when success doesn’t always feel like success.

Merritt shares her experience navigating the highs and lows of the game - and what it took to find her way back to loving it.

If you’ve ever felt the weight of expectations, uncertainty in recruiting, or just the ups and downs of being an athlete, this one will resonate.

In Part 2 of our conversation with Aija, she shares what she thought coaching would be when she first started versus what the role has actually become two years in. From reflection and responsibility to fairness, team culture, and the mental side of performance, she offers a thoughtful look at the work coaches carry long after practice ends.

We talk about what athletes often don’t realize coaches are thinking about, how to balance fairness with what a team needs in the moment, how to respond when energy drops, and what it really takes to build a unified culture when skill levels vary across a roster.

This conversation also gets to the heart of what “Better Together” really means - not just as a club phrase, but as a way of leading, growing, and showing up for the people around you.

In this episode, we cover:

• What coaching actually is versus what Aija thought it would be

• Why coaching is so much more mental and relational than most people realize

• The reflection process coaches go through after practices and tournaments

• Leading by example and asking athletes to do only what you’re willing to do yourself

• Balancing fairness, kindness, momentum, and development

• What players think coaches notice - and what coaches are actually watching

• How to respond when a team’s energy drops

• Building trust and culture across different personalities, ages, and skill levels

United 16 Black coach Aija Abele shares the story behind how she found her way into coaching - and it wasn’t something she originally planned.

Aija grew up in a Latvian-American household, spending her early years moving between countries before eventually landing in North Alabama. She reflects on how those experiences shaped her identity, her perspective on learning, and the way she now approaches leadership.

We also dive into her volleyball journey - from playing at Bob Jones High School to competing in college club volleyball at the University of Alabama. What began as a leadership role on her college team eventually turned into her first real experience navigating the responsibilities of coaching.

Aija also shares the moment that nudged her toward the sideline - a simple question during an adult open gym that forced her to reconsider what her next chapter in volleyball might look like.

In this episode we talk about:

• Growing up between cultures as a Latvian-American

• Moving internationally before settling in North Alabama

• Her playing career and college club volleyball experience

• The unexpected leadership lessons from running a college club team

• Finding community through volleyball after college

• The conversation that ultimately led her to coaching

In Part 2, we shift the conversation toward the realities of coaching - from managing pressure and team dynamics to building culture and helping athletes grow both on and off the court.

Chloe Walker is a United alum, first-year coach in our Locals program, and a young professional building her career through a salon apprenticeship at Huntsville Hair Company. In this conversation, Chloe shares what it feels like to go full circle - from being coached at United to now stepping onto the sideline herself.

You’ll also hear practical insight on creating team culture fast (consistency, communication, small compliments), helping athletes stop apologizing for mistakes, and why progress often looks like “messing up” first. Chloe connects those lessons to real life, opening up about choosing a non-traditional path after high school, navigating expectations, and embracing the mindset shift that’s carried her through volleyball and her professional life: “I don’t have to be here - I get to be here.”

In this episode, we cover:

• Coaching different personalities (quiet vs. loud) and helping a team connect

• Creating a low-pressure gym: “there are no stupid questions”

• Growth mindset in action: why she tells athletes not to apologize for mistakes

• Progress over perfection - and why “it gets worse before it gets better”

• Lessons from the salon: relationships, consistency, professionalism, and uncomfortable growth

• Choosing a non-traditional path after graduation and trusting your own timeline

Coaching can feel overwhelming - especially when no one ever showed you where to start.

In this short episode, Korohen shares the five foundations she wishes someone had laid out when she first stepped into the gym: why skill comes before system, how to coach the age in front of you, how to choose systems based on your athletes, why culture is built early, and how clear communication prevents most problems before they start.

This conversation is for:

• first-time coaches stepping into the role
• former players navigating their first season on the other side of the net
• experienced coaches adjusting to a new age group
• anyone staring at a blank practice plan wondering where to begin

If you’ve ever felt like you’re reacting instead of leading, this episode will help you reset and refocus on what actually drives athlete development.

Korohen also introduces a new digital course built to give volleyball coaches structure, clarity, and direction - from foundational skill progressions and teaching cues to practice planning, systems, communication, and culture.

Coaching matters. The way you teach, communicate, and lead shapes athletes far beyond the scoreboard.

In the final part of our three-part conversation with Dr. Amanda Aguilar, we focus on the role clubs play in shaping culture, communication, and expectations - and how partnership between families and organizations supports both athlete development and family well-being. We discuss the importance of transparency, role clarity, holistic support, and creating environments where athletes can grow not just in skill, but in confidence, identity, and resilience.

In this episode, we discuss:

• What distinguishes environments that develop the whole athlete, not just performance
• The role clubs play in setting expectations, communication, and culture
• Holistic athlete support: mental health, nutrition, recovery, and identity
• Helping athletes build confidence beyond their sport
• Encouraging athlete voice and self-advocacy
• Recognizing when alignment leads to healthier athlete and family experiences

This conversation closes the series with a reminder that youth sports work best when they function as a partnership - because when athletes feel supported, families feel connected, and organizations stay aligned, everyone benefits.

In Part 2 of our three-part series with Dr. Amanda Aguilar (UAH), we focus on one of the most important dynamics in youth sports: the difference between supportive parenting and performance pressure.

This conversation explores how parents’ words, emotions, and expectations shape an athlete’s experience - from the car ride home to sideline behavior and everyday communication. We also discuss burnout signals, mental and physical well-being, and how strong communication between athletes, parents, and coaches helps create a more stable and positive sport environment.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The difference between encouragement and performance pressure
• Why athletes taking the lead matters for motivation and ownership
• The importance of the car ride home - reflection vs. evaluation
• Sideline behavior and the messages athletes receive without words
• Emotional and physical burnout signals to watch for
• Sleep, recovery, and overall well-being during a season
• The youth sport “triangle”: athlete, parent, and coach - and how communication strengthens it
• Supporting development, confidence, and long-term love of the game

➡️ Stay tuned for Part 3 as we continue the conversation and explore the long-term identity and relational impacts youth sports can have on athletes and families.

In this first part of a three-part conversation, we sit down with Dr. Amanda Aguilar, a professor in the Sport and Fitness Management program at University of Alabama in Huntsville, to explore how youth sports impact not just the athlete — but the entire family.

Dr. Aguilar brings a unique perspective as a former college athlete, high school coach, parent of four, and youth sport researcher. Together, we discuss the growing professionalization of youth sports, early specialization, time and financial demands, and how families can unintentionally lose balance along the way.

This episode is about awareness, boundaries, and perspective — helping families make informed decisions that allow both athletes and families to thrive, not just survive.

🎧 This is Part 1 of a three-part series on family dynamics in sport.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Dr. Aguilar’s research on elite youth sports and the family unit
• Why youth sports have become more professionalized - and what that means for kids
• Early specialization vs. multi-sport participation
• The time, financial, and emotional demands placed on families
• How youth sports can unintentionally impact siblings and family relationships
• Why “fun” matters more than outcomes, especially at young ages
• The myth that “earlier is better” - and what research actually shows

This conversation offers families and coaches the perspective needed to create healthier boundaries, realistic expectations, and environments where athletes can grow without sacrificing the family unit.

In part two of our conversation with United 16 Blue head coach Jeff Norman, we dive deeper into how coaches can build confidence while still challenging athletes to grow and compete.

Jeff shares how creating a safe, growth-focused environment allows players to take risks, try new skills, and improve long-term - rather than staying stuck in what feels comfortable. We explore the impact of effort-based praise, how to respond to mistakes in high-pressure moments, and why encouragement and belief matter just as much as technical instruction.

This episode is packed with practical insight for coaches looking to move away from fear-based approaches and toward a culture that helps athletes build confidence, resilience, and trust - both in themselves and in their team.

In this episode, we cover:

• How to balance pushing athletes to compete while building confidence and self-belief
• The difference between fear-based environments and growth-focused environments
• Why playing it safe can limit long-term development
• The power of praising effort over outcomes
• How effort-based feedback encourages athletes to keep growing
• Creating freedom for athletes to try new skills - even when results aren’t perfect
• Helping athletes stay encouraged through mistakes and setbacks
• Why encouragement matters even more during matches than in practice
• How coaches can model emotional control in high-pressure moments
• The importance of bench energy, cheering, and team engagement
• Using simple, symbolic resets to help athletes let go of mistakes
• Building a culture where athletes know their coach believes in them
• What “Better Together” means through unity, support, and shared purpose

This episode is a powerful reminder that confidence, encouragement, and environment aren’t soft skills - they’re foundational to real growth.

In this episode of Better Together, we sit down with United 16 Blue head coach Jeff Norman to talk about what it truly means to coach with purpose.

Jeff shares his unique path into volleyball and how starting without prior volleyball experience shaped the way he approaches teaching, learning, and player development. We dive into servant leadership, fear-based versus love-based coaching, and how competitiveness can show up in healthy, team-first ways.

In this conversation, we cover:

• Jeff’s journey into volleyball and how starting without prior volleyball experience shaped his coaching approach
• Why being a lifelong learner is essential for effective player development
• The difference between fear-based coaching and love-based coaching
• How servant leadership shows up in everyday moments on the court
• What true competitiveness looks like in a team sport
• Helping athletes navigate mistakes, bad days, and tough performances
• Why focusing on the next point matters more than dwelling on the last one
• Coaching athletes through the pivotal developmental stage of the 16s age group
• Balancing joy, accountability, and high expectations
• Teaching athletes to support teammates - and themselves - through adversity

This episode is packed with insight for coaches, athletes, and parents who believe that meaningful development goes far beyond the scoreboard. Join us back next week for Part 2!

In part two of our conversation with registered dietitian Alyssum Reno-Smith, we zoom out and tackle what fueling looks like across an entire volleyball season - especially from a parent’s perspective.

Through real tournament scenarios, age-specific examples, and audience-submitted questions, Alyssum breaks down how families can plan ahead, build healthy habits, and support athletes without creating restriction or pressure. This episode goes beyond food lists and focuses on preparation, consistency, and setting athletes up for success both on and off the court.

Whether you’re navigating early-morning matches, multi-day qualifiers, or the influence of social media nutrition advice, this episode offers practical guidance you can actually use.

• How to fuel a 12U athlete during early-morning, multi-day tournaments
• Adjusting nutrition needs for older athletes competing at qualifiers
• Why planning ahead matters more than “perfect” meals
• How parents can support fueling without creating restriction or food shame
• Signs an athlete may be under-fueling - physically and hormonally
• Why hydration needs to be proactive, not reactive
• How different volleyball positions may influence fueling needs
• A realistic “stair-step” approach to improving nutrition habits
• How to navigate nutrition misinformation on social media
• Myth vs. fact: common beliefs about nerves, fruit, and protein bars
• Alyssum’s advice for parents supporting long-term athlete health and confidence
• What it truly means to be better together when it comes to fueling athletes

If you missed Part 1, go back and listen as we explore how nutrition impacts nerves, focus, hydration, and mental performance during competition.

What if some of the nerves, brain fog, and missed decisions on the court aren’t about skill - but about fueling?

In part one of our conversation with registered dietitian Alyssum Reno-Smith, we dig into how nutrition directly impacts the nervous system, focus, confidence, and in-game decision making for volleyball athletes. From energy drinks and hydration to carbs as brain fuel, this episode connects the dots between what athletes eat and how they perform - mentally and physically.

This conversation is especially timely as club season kicks off and athletes prepare for long competition days, early mornings, and high-pressure moments.

• How under-fueling can increase anxiety, shakiness, and in-game mistakes
• The connection between nutrition, the nervous system, and mental toughness
• Why carbs are the brain’s primary fuel - and how that affects focus and reaction time
• How energy drinks can worsen nerves when they replace real food
• Smart snack strategies for between matches and sets
• Why “not eating at all” before competition can backfire
• How hydration impacts decision making, not just physical performance
• Common fueling misunderstandings parents have - especially for anxious athletes
• The importance of timing food to support both calm and sustained energy

This is just part one - be sure to come back next week as we continue the conversation!

In Part 3, the final episode of our Ask the Directors series, Coach Korohen and Coach Scott bring the conversation full circle with practical advice, reflection, and a little fun.

They start by sharing simple but impactful ways parents can make tournament weekends easier and less stressful for their athletes. From there, they reflect on favorite memories from coaching at United and the moments that remind them why relationships matter just as much as results.

The episode wraps with some lighthearted questions - from choosing a “United Volleyball theme song” to building a dream team from our coaching staff - offering a behind-the-scenes look at the people, personalities, and values that shape our club.

Thanks to all of the families and athletes who submitted questions throughout this series. Your curiosity and honesty helped shape these conversations, and we’re grateful to be part of the journey with you!

• Tips from Coach Korohen and Coach Scott for reducing stress on tournament weekends
• Why preparation, consistency, and parent energy matter
• Creating a supportive environment before athletes ever step on the court
• Moments that go beyond wins and losses
• Choosing a “United Volleyball” theme song
• Building a volleyball team from United coaches

In Part 2 of our Ask the Directors series, we shift the focus from the court to the bigger picture - how to support young athletes in a healthy, sustainable way.

This episode dives into multi-sport participation, how parents can encourage skill development without burnout, and what meaningful support really looks like for athletes who are new to volleyball or new to United. We also touch on future opportunities, including beach volleyball, boys’ recruiting pathways, and options for athletes who want to play in college without being on a national team.

Rather than focusing on quick results, this conversation centers on guidance, balance, and long-term development - the pieces that help athletes stay healthy, confident, and connected to the sport.

• Specialization vs. multi-sport participation: when to lean in and when to pull back
• Fueling for practices and competition: nutrition guidance we trust and why
• Encouraging skill work at home without pressure or burnout
• How parents can best support growth - and what to avoid
• What to expect from United’s spring beach volleyball program
• Recruiting pathways for boys in volleyball
• Playing in college without a national team background

In this episode, we kick off our second Ask the Directors series - shaped entirely by questions from our United families and athletes.

You asked thoughtful, honest questions and today, our directors are sitting down to talk through them. This conversation offers transparency, context, and insight into the decisions that drive our club environment and athlete experience.

Thank you for sending in your questions - we’re excited to keep the conversation going across this series!

This week, we’re gathering the voices that have shaped Better Together from the beginning.

In honor of Thanksgiving, we pulled answers to one question we ask every guest - “What does it mean to be better together?” - from across both seasons.

It’s a celebration of the people, stories, and shared values that make our community what it is… and a reminder of how thankful we are for each of you.

From all of us at United, thank you for being part of our community - for showing up, growing with us, and reminding us that we’re all better together. Happy Thanksgiving!

Coach Scott Ingwersen brings a calm, encouraging, and joy-centered approach to coaching - and it shows in how his athletes respond to him. In this episode, Scott shares how he got started, how coaching his daughters shaped his “why,” and why building confident, fearless, joy-filled players matters far more than wins or losses.

From embracing mistakes to celebrating growth to helping young athletes find their voice, this conversation is full of wisdom for parents, players, and coaches alike.

• Why encouragement and positivity are foundational in his coaching
• Balancing fundamentals with giving athletes freedom to explore instincts
• Why mistakes are essential - and how he teaches athletes to embrace them
• The importance of proactive communication with players and parents
• Helping 14s develop confidence, emotional agility, and joy in the process
• How to build a team culture of forgiveness, support, and no-fear volleyball
• The generation shift: why players today want the why behind the game plan
• Scott’s favorite coaching moments, his goals for this season, and the motto he wants his team to live by
• Rapid-fire insights: toughest position to coach, favorite drills, and more

In this episode, we’re joined by Scott Jones and Alex Owen to share the story behind United in Service - our new initiative connecting athletes and families through giving back. Together, we explore how the program came to life, why community involvement matters, and how serving others builds stronger teams, deeper connections, and lasting impact beyond volleyball.

As many of our former United athletes near the end of their first college volleyball seasons, we’re taking a look back at where their journeys began - the recruitment process. This episode revisits their original conversations from last season, where they shared how they found their fit, made their decisions, and prepared for life at the next level.

Recruitment is more than just choosing a program - it’s about understanding who you are as a player and a person. These stories highlight the lessons, mindset, and trust it takes to step confidently into the next chapter.

We can’t wait to catch up with these athletes later this winter to hear how the transition to college life has shaped them - how they’ve grown, adapted, and continued building on the foundation they’ve worked hard to create.

In Part 2 of our partnership announcement series with SportsMED Orthopedic Surgery & Spine Center and Triple Threat Performance, we’re diving deeper into how this collaboration will elevate the health, safety, and performance of our United athletes.

Our conversation covers what parents, coaches, and players really need to know about recognizing warning signs, building healthy recovery habits, and optimizing training the right way - not just harder.

Discover what sets Triple Threat apart, how communication between coaches and care teams impacts return-to-play success, and why proper sleep might just be the ultimate performance enhancer.

📝 Show Notes

• Recognizing red flags: How to tell when fatigue signals something bigger than normal tiredness
• The truth about recovery: Why sleep is the most powerful performance tool available
• Warm-up & cool-down essentials: Preventing injuries before they happen
• Soreness vs. injury: How athletes can tell the difference and respond safely
• Triple Threat’s edge: What makes their certified staff and methods stand out
• The power of communication: How trainers, coaches, and parents can align for athlete success
• Trust in the process: Why belief in your recovery team matters just as much as the work itself
• Innovations in sports medicine: How technology like force plates and data-driven testing are shaping the future of youth athletics

We explore what holistic athlete care really looks like - and how collaboration between coaches, parents, and medical professionals builds a more supportive environment for every player.

This partnership is about more than performance - it’s about people. Together with SportsMED and Triple Threat Performance, we’re building a system where athletes can grow stronger, recover smarter, and thrive both on and off the court. 

United Volleyball has partnered with SportsMED and Triple Threat Performance to bring next-level care and training to our athletes. From injury prevention and same-day appointments to performance strength training and return-to-sport recovery, this partnership is built to keep players healthy, confident, and ready to compete.

Join Korohen as she sits down with the SportsMED and Triple Threat team to talk about what this collaboration means for our athletes, parents, and coaches - and how holistic care can transform the athlete experience.

Show Notes:

• What inspired the partnership and how it benefits United athletes year-round
• Why quick access to care matters for player availability and confidence
• How prevention, treatment, and training now work hand in hand
• What “return-to-sport” really looks like done the right way
• How United is building a stronger, healthier athlete community

This partnership is about more than performance - it’s about empowering athletes to move better, play longer, and reach their full potential. Be sure to join us next week as we continue the conversation!

In part two of our conversation with Audrey Cagle, our 14U National Head Coach for this upcoming season, we dive into the moments, lessons, and people that have shaped her as both a coach and a person. Audrey shares one of her most memorable coaching experiences with United, reflects on the influence that’s guided her coaching journey, and opens up about how the United community continues to impact her growth.

We also explore what “Better Together” means to her - and how celebration, joy, and connection show up in her coaching philosophy and team culture.

📌 In this episode:

• Audrey’s most memorable coaching moment with United
• The biggest influence on her coaching journey - and the lessons that stuck
• How the United community has helped her grow on and off the court
• What “Better Together” means to her in coaching and life
• Why celebration, joy, and gratitude are vital parts of team culture

A heartfelt close to this two-part series that reminds us why we coach, how we grow, and what it truly means to lead with heart.

This week, we sit down with Audrey Cagle, our 14U National Head Coach for this upcoming season, for an authentic conversation about adaptability, leadership, and finding purpose in the game.

From growing up with a new coach every season to playing every position in college, Audrey’s volleyball journey taught her how to read people, reflect deeply, and stay grounded in her “why.” She opens up about her recruiting story, what keeps her coaching year after year, and the lessons that continue shaping her approach to developing players - both on and off the court.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

• Audrey’s experience as a multi-position athlete and how it shaped her perspective as a coach
• Lessons learned from having a new coach nearly every season growing up
• Her recruiting story and the decision-making process behind choosing a college
• What keeps her motivated and fulfilled as a coach season after season
• How reflection and observation guide her coaching style
• Key principles she instills in players for growth on and off the court
• The importance of adaptability, confidence, and creativity for 14U athletes

Whether you’re a coach, parent, or athlete, this episode is full of thoughtful takeaways on growth, competition, and connection.