The Pit to Pro Podcast
By: The Elser Brothers
Language: en-us
Categories: Sports, Volleyball, Education, Self Improvement, Society, Culture, Relationships
This Podcast hosted by Jesse, Mathias, and Aaron Elser, is meant to guide young athletes on their journey to high performance. Join us as we share our first hand experiences in and effort to help you reach your own volleyball goals.
Episodes
Episode #41 - Mental Excellence with Kyle Paquette
Jan 03, 2026In this episode we talk with Kyle Paquette. Kyle is the mental performance coach responsible for leading the Canadian men's national team to three consecutive Olympic appearances. He's a PhD in sports psychology and is the current director of the National Wheelchair Curling Team. We discuss how your brain is wired to lie to you most of the time and how we can combat it. We dive into why perfectionism is ruining your progress and how to use gratitude as a superpower. We also talk about the role of luck in high performance, and what it means to ac...
Duration: 02:06:36Episode #40 - Life Long Learning with Cody Kessel
Aug 26, 2025In this episode we learn where confidence comes from and how to maximize your potential. Why you have to be careful what you're basing your self-worth on, why mastery and self-expression go hand in hand, and when is it a good time to be intentionally delusional? We discuss the ups and downs of Cody’s career and what kept him chasing his national team dreams, despite not getting a start for the program until he was 30 years old.
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Duration: 01:13:04Episode #39 - The Love of Volleyball with Lauren Carlini
Jul 11, 2025In this episode we discuss the difference between your ego and your confidence, the unmatched competition for spots in USA volleyball, how to be a good teammate while aiming to perform your best. We chat about the many emotions that come with getting cut from the olympic roster and how she responded in the next 4 years. She shares what it was like committing to university at 14 years old, and we brainstorm the science of momentum and how to quantify it.
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...
Duration: 01:25:36Episode #38 - The Coach's Playbook with Ben Josephson
Jun 19, 2025In this long awaited episode we talk about why you don't learn anything from losing, what men can learn from women's volleyball and vice versa. How to create a culture where innovation happens daily. Why you should never compare your players to each other while watching someone else perform a skill might lead to faster learning than watching yourself.
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Click here to begin your journey to more aces and pain free spiking. Get 50% off using PROMO code: ARMSWING50 h...
Duration: 02:10:17Episode #37 - Anna Dunn's Story
Jun 05, 2025Episode #37 - Anna Dunn’s Story
(00:00 - 01:09) It is hard to describe the first half of this episode in words that do it justice. Anna talks about the hills and valleys she went through during her battle with cancer, her reaction when she found out she needed to get her lower leg amputated, and the terrible side effects of chemotherapy. She shares what, and who, kept her going through those tough times, and the effect someones support can have on your life.
(01:09 - End) The second half of the episode we d...
Duration: 01:45:17Episode #36 - Pit2Pro X Out of System with Gage and Joe Worsley
May 27, 2025This episode is chalk full of information and crazy stories. Expect to learn about the intense Worley household, how to cultivate grit and competitiveness, the problem with most team cultures in professional volleyball. How to find the play style that works best for you, what we can learn from Gage's horrible recruiting trip to Hawaii, and the many differences between the Canadian and American development systems.
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Duration: 01:25:46Episode #35 - Olympic Mindset with Brodie Hofer
May 05, 2025In this episode we hear from Brodie on the ups and downs of his Olympic journey and what he had to sacrifice in order to get there. We discuss some tips on how to be an effective highball spiker, as well as lessons from the weight room. We reminiscence on our national championship season, and dive into what it takes to perform day after day in the Italian League.
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Duration: 01:06:10Episode #34 - Lessons from the 2024/25 Season
Apr 26, 2025In this episode the boys discuss what they learned from their very different seasons; Jesse playing Pro in France, Mathias Assistant Coaching at TWU, and Oog red-shirting at the UofS. We discuss the level of preparation needed in order to play at a high level, the role of a coach in player development, and the ability to learn and reflect outside of a volleyball context. We also share a plethora of insights, lessons, and mistakes from the 2024/25 season.
Check out our website: https://sites.google.com/view/thepit2propodcast/home Duration: 00:49:12
Episode #33 - Elite Resilience with Tj Sanders
Mar 17, 2025In this episode we talk about the different ways gratitude can help with performance, how the nervous system responds in high pressure moments, and how to get the most out of your current situation. And of course we talk all about setting; tactics, ideas, tips, and queues to help any level setter reach their full potential.
Check out our website: https://sites.google.com/view/thepit2propodcast/home
Click here to begin your journey to more aces and pain free spiking. Get 50% off using PROMO code: AR...
Duration: 01:32:07Episode #32 - Q&A #5
Mar 12, 2025In this episode we talk about conflict within teams, when to implement new skills, how to lead when things aren't going your way and how to help others find motivation. Mathias shares his belief in Power Poses and how to exude confidence even when things aren't going well. We answer some questions about the hardest transitions from club to university, and university to pro, as well as how to best prepare yourself for a tryout.
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...
Duration: 01:01:36Episode #31 - More Than a Volleyball Player with Stephen Maar
Mar 03, 2025In this refreshing episode we talk about radical honesty, how to lead a team through a broken culture, and the downside of overanalysis. Maar shares his reasoning for retiring from the national team, why experiencing the full spectrum of human emotion is a good thing, and how he turned one of his greatest defeats into one of his proudest moments. Above all, it is evident from the first minute of this episode to the last, that Maar has a strong desire to help the next generation of Volleyballers, and will do anything to give back and share his...
Duration: 01:33:28Episode #30 - Past, Present, and Future with Nick Hoag
Jan 31, 2025In this episode we discuss Nick’s extensive career and what he has learned along the way. We talk about serving - one of Nick’s specialties - how to separate your identity from your sport, and how to be a leader without being a boss. We talk about why extra reps aren't always a good idea, the best way to learn new skills, and he shares some advice to those struggling with mental health.
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Episode #29 - A Look Back at 2024
Jan 17, 2025In this episode we reminisce on some of our favorite guests, stories, quotes, and moments from the 2024 Podcast Season. We talk about the 20 mile march, preventing regret, empathetic environments, and everything in between.
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Duration: 00:48:49Episode #28 - Jesse's Story
Dec 31, 2024In this episode we are joined by our very own Jesse Elser. We learn why Jesse was voted captain of his very first pro team, what most people get wrong about relationship building, how important rapport is to a successful career, and how different paths can lead to the same destination. We discuss the importance of finding your own authentic performance state and how to elevate that performance state in those around you.
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Episode #27 - Mathias' Story
Dec 11, 2024In this episode we dig into the incredibly complex mind of Mathias Elser, asking him the questions even we as brothers have been itching to ask for the past twenty years. We talk about flow state, the double edge sword of leadership, and the guts it takes to have tough conversations. Mathias shares his thoughts on the power of learning from the past, and the choices you have - even if you don’t think you have a choice.
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Episode #26 - Oog's Story
Dec 02, 2024In this episode we talk to Oog and uncover the emotional toll it took to transfer schools, how having balance in your life is a key factor to achieve happiness and why farming is the greatest occupation in the world. We discuss the value of making decisions with your own interest in mind and the intricacy of personality traits and how different criticism and feedback can be interpreted depending on the character traits you possess.
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Episode #25 - What is High Performance, with Dr. Abe Avender
Nov 25, 2024In this humorous and informative episode with Dr. Abe Avender, we discuss the arguments for and against stretching, what sets high performers apart from good performers, and the role, if any, for anti-inflammatory drugs in high level sport. We discuss the intricacy of volleyball training, the concussion epidemic in volleyball, and the power of sleep.
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Episode #24 - Q&A #4
Nov 19, 2024In this episode we answer a bunch more questions and get into some really cool topics concerning performing under pressure, meal prep for high performance athletes, and the power and structure of journaling. We discuss what we would tell our younger selves, and how being patient, curious, and authentic, can be hugely beneficial to success.
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Episode #23 - Setting and Everything in Between with Brie O'Reilly
Nov 11, 2024In this episode with Brie O’Reilly we discuss some of Ben Josephson’s many philosophies, how playing different positions helps overall development and why Brie couldn't say no to her contract in Brazil. She discusses the crazy emotions that came during her year with Athlete Unlimited, how tough conversations are always worth it, and the bright future of the Canadian Woman’s National Team.
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Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may... Duration: 01:13:39
Episode #22 - Chase Your Dreams with Kofi
Nov 02, 2024In this episode we take a deep dive into what it takes to chase your dreams. Kofi discusses the power of learning from your failures, learning from your teammates, and the tool of reframing. We talk about how easy it is to be swept up in the lifestyle of a professional artist, how he has learned to balance two promising careers and the consequences of taking 4 years off from volleyball. Oh, we also heard about Kofi’s conversation with Lebron James in a hotel elevator.
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Episode #21 - A Volleyballers Life with Graham Vigrass
Oct 21, 2024In this episode we discuss the trials of being a new coach, the power of the mind and how to promote curiosity, as well as why Canada is behind other nations in terms of skill development. We speak about the dichotomy of how to deal with what matters and believing that it doesn't matter, and the side businesses within recovery. We discuss the amazing opportunity of having a family overseas as well as the benefit of immersing yourself in other cultures.
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Episode #20 - Blocking with Lucas VanBerkel
Oct 10, 2024In this episode we are joined by another two-time Olympian. Lucas talks about his mental state after attending two olympics, the sacrifices his family had to make to help him succeed, and the role that fun has in long term success. He breaks down why he loves playing for the National Team more than playing overseas, how volleyball has changed over his 10 year professional career, and why blocking is such a difficult skill.
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Episode #19 - Attacking with Eric Loeppky
Sep 30, 2024In this episode we are joined by Eric Loeppky. Eric dives into his near career ending sickness, the pressure and sacrifices it takes to be great, and how he ended up playing for one of the most elite clubs in the world. We discuss the power of using offspeed shots, where the lefty tip came from, and what goes through his mind when he’s attacking at the highest level. We talk about the value in rest, reevaluation, and detachment and how that helps him perform on some of the biggest stages in the world.
The At... Duration: 01:00:15Episode #18 - Reception with Kevin Tillie
Sep 16, 2024In this episode we are joined by Kevin Tillie. Kevin is a world class receiver and a back to back Olympic Gold Medalist. He shares how his volleyball journey brought him to Canada, how many people tried to change his technique along the way, and his current role in the French National Team gym. We discuss what sets the French team apart from the rest of the world, the difficulty of receiving a hybrid serve, and how important having fun and being creative is to his success.
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Episode #17 - Serving
Sep 09, 2024In this episode we discuss the different ways you can “weaponize” your serve to gain an edge over your opponents. We reminisce about some of our best serving memories and what we were feeling, seeing and doing in those moments. Serving is a difficult and crucially important skill and we hope the tips and tricks we provide in this episode can help you become more efficient and consistent servers.
Click here to begin your journey to more aces and pain free spiking: https://coach.everfit.io/package/UT100315
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Duration: 01:05:58Episode #16 - Setting with Brett Walsh
Aug 31, 2024In this episode with Brett Walsh – AN OLYMPIAN – we talk about all things setting. Brett’s ability to be a positive influence whether he is on the court or not helped him, through many ups and downs in his career, earn a spot in the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. We talk about growing up with Dads who played on the national team, what separates great setters from good setters, and how to instill patience in yourself and those around you. We discuss the benefits of track and field training for aspiring setters, whether or not focusing on tactics at a yo...
Duration: 01:05:50Episode #15 - Q&A #3
Aug 23, 2024In this question episode we discuss the power of the birth order and the psychology of getting yourself out of a rut. We talk about the gap between Team Canada and Team France during the Olympics and how big a role a single error can play in a team’s success. Lastly, we emphasize the importance of learning from those bad games - or even the games you were on the bench - and how that perspective can greatly change the trajectory of your career.
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Episode #14 - What did we Learn: Summer 24' Edition
Aug 14, 2024In this episode we use a plethora of Ben Josephson quotes about golf and explain how they relate to high level volleyball performance. We talk about the power of efficiency, extension, and acceleration when performing a skill and we debate the use of boxes in a practice.
Click here to begin your journey to more aces and pain free spiking: https://coach.everfit.io/package/UT100315
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Duration: 00:25:57Episode #13 - How to get More Blocks with Jackson Howe
Jul 24, 2024In this episode, our longtime friend, teammate, and roommate, Jackson Howe joins us as we talk about adding value to the team as an undersized middle, playing at the next level and the importance of the setter-middle relationship. We reminisce about our club days, the huge benefit of having friends overseas with you, and the importance of finding the playstyle that best suits your abilities and physical attributes.
Click here to begin your journey to more aces and pain free spiking: https://coach.everfit.io/package/UT100315
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Duration: 01:03:51Episode #12 - Quotes and Ideas with Jesse and Mathias
Jul 05, 2024In this episode Mathias and Jesse discuss some of their favorite ideas and quotes that have helped them in various ways throughout their career – on and off the court. We discuss how these ideas help us deal with failure, practice gratitude, connect with others, and approach fear.
Click here to begin your journey to more aces and pain free spiking: https://coach.everfit.io/package/UT100315
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Duration: 00:53:27Episode #11 - Fathers Day Edition with Tom Elser
Jun 25, 2024In this episode we are joined by our Dad, Tom Elser, for a special Fathers Day Edition of the Pit to Pro Podcast. Our Dad had a lengthy career consisting of many years with the National Team, a National Championship with the University of Calgary Dinos, a year of professional ball in Italy, and on various masters teams -- playing well into his 50’s. We discuss topics ranging from the parents role in the recruiting process, the best memories of his career, the role of volleyball in our family, and the evolution of the game of volleyball.
Episode #10 - Leadership
Jun 05, 2024In this episode we talk about the role of humility and empathy in a leadership position. We further discuss what leadership means to us, how we have experienced great leadership, and we highlight some of the important leaders in our life and the amazing individual qualities each one brings to a team or a friendship.
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Duration: 00:46:56Episode #9 - Q & A #2
May 17, 2024Our first ever episode where all three of us are in the same room!!!! Listen to our second "Question and Answer" episode where we answer the remainder of your pressing question.
2:08 If y’all could do something other than volleyball as a career what would you do? Oog it has to be something other than a rancher.
3:48 Jesse, why did you decide to sign with de Sète?
5:44 What was the Elser boys least favorite subject in high school?
7:31 What are the biggest aspects of a GOOD setter?
9:38 What are...
Duration: 00:53:55Episode #8 - Holistic Wellness and Arm Swing Mechanics with Nick Del Bianco
May 09, 2024In this episode with our first guest ever, Nick Del Bianco, we discuss a number of helpful tips, tricks, and strategies to stay healthy, play longer, lift heavier, sleep better, and even hit harder. Nick specializes in athlete holistic wellness with an emphasis on longevity and availability.
Click here to begin your journey to more aces and pain free spiking: https://coach.everfit.io/package/UT100315
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Duration: 01:30:35Episode #7 - Mental Health in Sport
May 02, 2024The goal of this episode is to continue to do our part in breaking the stigma around mental health – especially in athletes. We wanted to share our journey with mental health, how it has affected us, and how to create a safe space for those important people around you.
Click here to begin your journey to more aces and pain free spiking: https://coach.everfit.io/package/UT100315
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Duration: 01:00:52Episode #6 - Mental Toughness and Dealing with Pressure
Apr 25, 2024In this episode we discuss tips and tricks on how to stay present in stressful situations, how to reset after errors, and how to deal with nerves. We also discuss the power of gratitude and the role that willpower plays in performance.
Click here to begin your journey to more aces and pain free spiking: https://coach.everfit.io/package/UT100315
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Duration: 00:59:15Episode #5 - Q & A #1
Apr 11, 2024We got an overwhelming number of questions so THANK YOU!!! We promise we will answer all of them. If we don't answer it in this episode that means we are using your question to shape the conversation of future episodes. Stay tuned.
1:38 How do you stop comparing yourself to others around you/on your own team?
7:08 Do you guys ever compare yourself to each other? Or how do you manage to not compare yourself?
9:38 What athlete have you played with that would be the best/ swaggiest...
Duration: 00:55:02Episode #4 - Teammates and Team Dynamics
Mar 25, 2024In this episode we talk all about teammates, accountability, and love languages. We discuss the difference between being a friend and a teammate, how to lead by example, and attempt to tackle the question of how to make those around you better.
Click here to begin your journey to more aces and pain free spiking: https://coach.everfit.io/package/UT100315
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Duration: 00:50:56Episode #3 - Post-Secondary and Recruitment
Mar 17, 2024In this episode we talk about getting recruited, how to stand out, moving away from home, and the individuality of each program. We also discuss how to deal with the stress of choosing a post-secondary institution and best practices for reaching out and building connections with coaches.
Click here to begin your journey to more aces and pain free spiking: https://coach.everfit.io/package/UT100315
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Duration: 00:39:32Episode #2 - Improvement and Performance
Mar 10, 2024In our second episode, we talk about learning and habits. We explore two different schools of thought – how to stress your mind and body just the right amount to ensure maximum success – and the science behind creating a new habit.
Click here to begin your journey to more aces and pain free spiking: https://coach.everfit.io/package/UT100315
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Duration: 00:52:32Episode #1 - The 20 Mile March
Feb 27, 2024In our first episode, we talk all-things goal setting. How to achieve long term goals and how to productively and effectively stay on track as a team throughout the course of long and bumpy seasons.
Click here to begin your journey to more aces and pain free spiking: https://coach.everfit.io/package/UT100315
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Duration: 00:26:57