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Block & Talk

Block & Talk

Parker Bijl & Clay Ressler 17 episodes Nov 2, 2026

Block & Talk is a volleyball podcast covering the full range of the sport, from core skills to smarter practice design. The hosts share coaching ideas and break down ways to improve performance and team development. Episodes also feature guests from different parts of the volleyball world. The show is aimed at players, coaches, and anyone looking for practical volleyball conversation.

Episodes

Beating The Mid-Season Slump!
Beating The Mid-Season Slump! Nov 2, 2026 53:55 Are your practices feeling a bit like walking through quicksand lately? The mid-season grind is officially here, and physical fatigue, mental burnout, and school stress can quickly turn a high-energy gym into a quiet, sluggish one.In this episode, Parker and Clay dive deep into how to recognize the warning signs of team burnout before it impacts your results. We explore the subtle differences betw
In-Game Adjustments – Tactical Masterclass or Overcoaching?
In-Game Adjustments – Tactical Masterclass or Overcoaching? Oct 14, 2026 48:10 Block & Talk – Episode 17: In-Game AdjustmentsOnce the first whistle blows, how much control does a coach really have? In this episode, we dive deep into the art and science of in-game adjustments—exploring the fine line between impactful tactical changes and chaotic overcoaching.Before we tackle the main theme, we break down major developments across the NCAA women's volleyball landscape:The
The Back-to-Reality Break Down
The Back-to-Reality Break Down Sep 28, 2026 32:30 We’re back on the mics after a four-week break! In Episode 16, we shake off the rust and catch up on everything happening in our lives—from summer wrap-ups to jumping right back into the swing of things.Once we settle in, we dive straight into the action:The Life Update: Where we’ve been, what we've been up to during our time away, and how we're transitioning into the fall routine.New Rule Changes
You Selected Your Team.... What now?
You Selected Your Team.... What now? Aug 31, 2026 58:16 The tryouts are over, the rosters are locked, and the clock is ticking down to Game 1. In Episode 15 of Block & Talk, Parker and Clayton dive into the chaotic, high-stakes 48 hours immediately following team selection.Before getting into the high-school coaching trenches, the guys open with a massive week in volleyball news: analyzing the early-season chaos in the NCAA Division I ranks (includ
Decoding Tryouts: Designing Environments to Reveal True Potential
Decoding Tryouts: Designing Environments to Reveal True Potential Aug 17, 2026 1:08:48 Are your tryouts actually helping you select the right players, or are you just running traditional drills that mask an athlete's true capability?In this episode of Block & Talk, we dive deep into the science and art of the tryout environment. We move past the surface-level evaluations of isolated drills and explore how to design high-information settings that reveal technical, tactical, and p
The Practice Blueprint (Part 2)
The Practice Blueprint (Part 2) Aug 5, 2026 39:46 We are back on the court to finish what we started! On this episode of Block & Talk, we are diving into Part 2 of our deep-dive analysis into Parker’s comprehensive practice plan.If Part 1 laid the foundation for warm-ups and early skill acquisition, this episode takes you through the back half of the session. We are breaking down how to transition from individual drills into high-intensity, g
The Practice Blueprint Pt. 1
The Practice Blueprint Pt. 1 Jul 20, 2026 56:52 Ready to take your team's training to the next level? On this episode of Block & Talk, we’re pulling back the curtain on structure and organization. We are diving into Part 1 of our comprehensive practice plan, breaking down how to build a session that is both high-energy and technically focused.Whether you're struggling to balance skill development with game-like intensity, or you're just loo
Attacking Technique and Cues
Attacking Technique and Cues Jul 6, 2026 58:01 Block & Talk: Episode 11 - Mastering the AttackWelcome back to another episode of Block & Talk! This week, we are stepping off the defensive wall and moving to the front court. In Episode 11, we are breaking down the art of the attack.Whether you are looking to add more velocity to your swing, improve your timing, or finally master that elusive three-step approach, this episode is for you.
Picking Your Path: Club Volleyball Selection 101
Picking Your Path: Club Volleyball Selection 101 Jun 23, 2026 45:01 Description: Trying to navigate the club volleyball recruitment maze? You’re not alone! In this episode of Block & Talk, we strip away the jersey colors and marketing slogans to get to the heart of what really matters.We’re breaking down the "Big Three" pillars of a great club fit:Culture & Coaching: How to spot a program that truly prioritizes athlete development over just chasing hardwar
VNL Action & Navigating the June 15th Recruiting Wave
VNL Action & Navigating the June 15th Recruiting Wave Jun 9, 2026 42:39 In this episode of our volleyball podcast, we dive deep into the high-octane world of international and collegiate volleyball. First, we break down the latest action from the 2026 Volleyball Nations League (VNL), analyzing the standout performances and tactical shifts from the opening rounds of play.Then, we shift our focus to the future of the sport as we tackle the high-stakes world of NCAA recr
From First Touch to Floor General — A Deep Dive into the Setter Position with Rayn Perry
From First Touch to Floor General — A Deep Dive into the Setter Position with Rayn Perry Jun 1, 2026 55:56 Today on Block & Talk, we’re joined by Southern Alberta standout Rayn Perry — a high-level setter, leader, and co-founder of Panther Volleyball Club whose journey has taken her from Kate Andrews High School to competing at the U SPORTS level with both the University of Toronto and UBC Okanagan.Rayn’s story is one of growth, leadership, and mastering one of the most complex positions in volleyb
Episode #7 - Hot Takes
Episode #7 - Hot Takes May 26, 2026 43:35 Join us this week as we take a deep dive into some volleyball "hot takes" that are present in this game. Listen along to see where you stand on these controversial takes.🛒 Pins and Aces - Premium golf apparel, bags & accessories💰 Get 21% OFF | Promo Code: BLKNTALKhttps://promocode.to/pins-and-aces/blkntalk-n0t🛒 More Labs - Clinically proven recovery energy drinks💰 Get 25% OFF | Promo Code: BLK

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