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Outside The Pins
Published by Jon Ellmann
- Sports
- Volleyball
Where Oshkosh Volleyball conversations, stories and ideas live
Listen on Apple PodcastsPublished by Jon Ellmann
Where Oshkosh Volleyball conversations, stories and ideas live
Listen on Apple PodcastsIn this heartfelt and emotional episode of Outside the Pins , we sit down with graduating senior Jaclyn “Jac” Dutkiewicz to reflect on a journey filled with resilience, love, growth, laughter, and ultimately a national championship. 🏆🖤💛 From navigating the challenges of balancing nursing school and collegiate volleyball to embracing every role asked of her throughout her career, Jac shares what it truly meant to “do it the right way.” ❤️🏐 This conversation dives into: 🩺 Balancing nursing school and college athletics 🌱 Persevering through adversity and uncertainty 🤝 The importance of team culture, support, and belonging 😂 Freshman-year chaos, unforgettable memories, and Green Lake stories 🏆 The emotional reality of winning a national championship ✨ Learning that impact goes far beyond statistics or playing time Jac’s story is a powerful reminder that success is built through relationships, consistency, resilience, and showing up for others every single day. Her perspective on leadership, selflessness, and finding “your people” makes this one of the most meaningful Forever Titan conversations yet. 🎧 Whether you’re an athlete, coach, student, or simply someone navigating life’s transitions, this episode will leave you inspired to cherish the little moments and trust the process. 💫 Send us Fan Mail
In this powerful and deeply reflective episode of Outside the Pins , we sit down with soon-to-be graduate Makenna Barone for a conversation about identity, resilience, growth, and discovering your worth beyond the game. 💛🖤 Mak shares her journey from a small-town athlete unsure of where she belonged to becoming a national champion, leader, and future social worker at University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh. Along the way, she opens up about overcoming multiple ACL injuries, redefining her role within the program, and learning that impact isn’t always measured by time on the court. 🏐✨ This episode dives into: 🌱 Personal growth through adversity 💭 Mental health, identity, and self-worth 🤝 The power of connection and team culture 🏆 What it truly felt like winning a national championship ❤️ Why “worthy” became the defining word of her journey Filled with honesty, perspective, humor, and heart, this conversation is a reminder that some of the most meaningful victories happen internally long before they show up externally. 🎧 If there’s a little voice inside of you pulling you toward something meaningful — this episode is for you. Send us Fan Mail
🎙️ Episode Summary: In this powerful and emotional episode, Riley Kindt returns to the Outside the Pins podcast to reflect on her journey through UW-Oshkosh Volleyball and the whirlwind of life that has followed graduation. Now a cardiac nurse, homeowner, and newly engaged, Riley shares the realities of transitioning from student-athlete to real life while navigating some of the most meaningful and challenging moments of her life—including her father’s battle with pancreatic cancer. Through stories of recruiting, team culture, Costa Rica adventures, and relentless work ethic, Riley reflects on the lessons that volleyball taught her about resilience, connection, and living fully in the present. Key Topics: 🏐 Late Recruiting, Right Fit: How Riley’s unconventional recruiting journey—from considering track to discovering Oshkosh—led her to a program built on authenticity, trust, and genuine relationships. 💪 The Work Ethic That Builds Culture: Why pushing teammates to be their best—whether playing or supporting from the bench—became one of the defining traits of Oshkosh Volleyball’s success. 🧠 Self-Awareness and Growth: Riley shares her experience pursuing an ADHD diagnosis during college and how understanding herself better helped her navigate academics, athletics, and life. 🌍 Moments That Become Memories: From Green Lake retreats to Costa Rica adventures, Riley reflects on how the seemingly small moments—bus rides, hotel rooms, and late-night conversations—become the memories that last forever. ❤️ Life Beyond Volleyball: Graduating nursing school, passing the NCLEX, becoming a cardiac nurse, getting engaged, buying a home, and supporting her dad through a cancer diagnosis—all while carrying the lessons learned as a student-athlete. 🎯 Make the Boat Row Faster: The philosophy that shaped Riley’s mindset—making small daily choices that help the team, and yourself, move forward together. Closing Thoughts: Riley’s story is one of resilience, gratitude, and relentless effort. Her journey reminds us that the true impact of college athletics isn’t just wins and losses—it’s the relationships built, the adversity faced, and the lessons that carry forward long after the final match. Whether navigating sport, career, or life’s unexpected challenges, Riley’s message is clear: work hard, value the people around you, and never forget to be present for the moments that matter most. Listen Now – and stay tuned for more stories from the athletes, coaches, and moments that define UW-Oshkosh Volleyball on Outside the Pins . Send us Fan Mail
🎧 Episode Summary: In this heartfelt, funny, and emotional father-daughter edition of Outside the Pins , UW-Oshkosh alum Riley Kindt is joined by her father, Deke, for a raw and powerful conversation on legacy, love, and what it means to show up—for your family, your team, and yourself. From backyard trampolines and youth sports stories to Deke’s recent cancer diagnosis, the Kindts open up about the moments that shaped them, the perspective gained through adversity, and the unwavering support system that made it all possible. It's about more than volleyball—this episode is a celebration of grit, gratitude, growth, and the beautiful mess of doing life together. 🏠 The Kindt Family Foundation: Love, Loyalty, & Laughter Raised in a family of athletes (including an NFL legacy), Riley shares stories of growing up under the guidance of a dad who led with heart—not volume—and modeled resilience in every way. Whether she was working through her 16th birthday car accident or her 16th missed tip in practice, Deke’s steady support and high expectations became her compass. 💔 Cancer, Perspective & Purpose Deke recounts the shocking moment his daughter noticed his yellow skin after a fishing trip—leading to a life-changing cancer diagnosis. With honesty and grace, he shares the brutal truths about navigating treatment delays, palliative care conversations, and the frustrating gaps in cancer care. Through it all, Riley—alongside her aunt and extended family—has been a relentless advocate and caregiver. The journey has changed everything: diet, mindset, faith, and purpose. “It’s been hard—but it’s also been beautiful. I’m reminded every day how supported we are.” 🏐 Volleyball as a Vehicle for Life Lessons From her first tooth falling out on a tee-ball field to nearly quitting club volleyball, Riley’s story is filled with memorable, formative moments—and always, someone in her corner. Coaches from her MVP club days to college created environments where she felt wanted, supported, and inspired to keep going. Deke remembers every bit of it. Every serve. Every mile driven. “My parents went everywhere for me. I had to do the same for Riley. No question.” 💪 Work Ethic Without Apology Whether wearing long sleeves to sweat more in practice or redefining what a “super middle” looks like, Riley’s unmatched motor and toughness became part of her identity—and her legacy. Her dad, now battling cancer, credits her as part of the reason he’s fighting so hard. 🎓 The Next Chapter Now a nurse, homeowner, and engaged to her fiancé Cole, Riley continues to support her family while navigating adulthood with the same determination she brought to the court. Deke, grateful and proud, reflects on how incredible it is to see his daughter leading in life the way she once did in sport. 🌎 Costa Rica & Collective Joy One of the standout memories for both came during the team’s international trip to Costa Rica. From ziplining to waterfall swimming, Deke embraced every moment—even when the current took him under (but the phone stayed dry!). For Riley, seeing her family and teammates connect across borders made it unforgettable. 🏆 Legacy of Support – From Stands to Sidelines The Kindt family—and the entire Oshkosh Family—created an atmosphere of unconditional support in the stands that mirrored the culture built on the court. Win or lose. Starter or not. Everyone mattered. ❤️ Final Takeaways: From Riley: “If you’re upset, go outside. Move. Work through it. That came from my dad. And now I live by it.” From Deke: “The fight is worth it when you’re not in it alone. And thanks to this family, I never am.” Send us Fan Mail
Episode Summary: In this episode of Outside the Pins , UW-Oshkosh alum Robyn Kirsch reflects on her transformational Titan journey—from a season-ending ACL injury before committing to Oshkosh, to anchoring the team’s rise to back-to-back NCAA Elite Eight appearances. As both a quiet leader and fierce competitor, Robin became a cornerstone of the program’s evolution—on the court, in the classroom, and now as a coach and dental school applicant. She shares wisdom on resilience, learning through adversity, staying authentic in leadership, and why the relationships you build in a locker room can change your life forever. Key Topics: 💪 Injuries & Resilience: After an ACL tear during her senior year of high school, Robin didn’t give up—she adapted. She coached. She had two knee surgeries and an ankle surgery in college—but returned stronger. Her drive to contribute, even while sidelined, became a defining trait. 🏐 Quiet Grit, Loud Impact: Though never the loudest voice, Robin became a high-IQ, high-trust leader. Whether crushing film breakdowns, writing playbook-level scouting notes, or anchoring serve receive with calm consistency, she embodied the “warrior” award she was given—and proved leadership comes in many forms. 🌊 Costa Rica, Community & Culture: From surfing wipeouts and orphanage connections to zip lining and chocolate-making chants, Robin’s memories of the team’s international trip to Costa Rica captured the joy, depth, and long-term impact of global service—and how those moments still come up in dental school interviews. 🎪 Green Lake to Community Night: Robin’s memories range from getting lost in Green Lake to throwing a ball into the net at the first-ever Community Night in front of 2,800 fans. These moments—funny, formative, electric—symbolize the power of shared experience and strong team bonds. 🧠 Authenticity in Leadership: Robin didn’t need a captain’s title to lead. She leaned into who she was—a trusted listener, steady competitor, and deeply thoughtful teammate. Her belief: when everyone leads authentically, the group is stronger together. 🎓 Biomedical Brain & Coaching Heart: A Biomedical Sciences major with a Chemistry minor, Robin has her eyes set on dental school—but she’s not leaving the volleyball world. Now a varsity assistant and club coach, she’s passing on the same mindset, grit, and growth she modeled as a Titan. 🏆 Progress Worth Pursuing: Robin’s class helped build a program that grew from missing the NCAA tournament to two straight Elite Eight runs. Her advice to future Titans: “Embrace challenges, work together, and understand that how you grow as a team matters more than any outcome.” Send us Fan Mail
Episode Summary: In this deeply moving and inspiring conversation, UW-Oshkosh Volleyball alum Mel Hust returns to camp and the podcast mic with vulnerability, humor, and wisdom. From nearly walking away from the game after two knee surgeries to becoming a cornerstone of the Titan program and second all-time in aces, Mel shares her story of rediscovering passion, navigating mental health, persevering through nursing school, and enduring unimaginable personal loss. Through it all, Mel’s quiet strength, explosive play, and genuine heart made her a leader both on and off the court. This episode is a masterclass in resilience, authenticity, and the importance of leaning into who you truly are. Key Topics: 🌟 The Spark Returns: After declaring she was done with volleyball, Mel came to one last camp—and everything changed. A spark reignited. A campus clicked. And a role in the Titan legacy began. 🧠 Mental Health, Mindset & Growth: Mel opens up about the early college struggle—online classes, lack of structure, academic disinterest—and how depression colored her first few years. With time and support, she began taking ownership of her routine, rediscovered her purpose, and learned to ask for help. 💪 Real Life, Real Support: From barely passing chemistry to being surrounded by staff who rallied around her to make sure she got into the nursing program, Mel’s story highlights the depth of support that exists at Oshkosh—for those willing to receive it. ❤️ Her Father’s Legacy: Just days before playing in the NCAA Elite 8, Mel learned of her father’s passing. Her resilience in that moment—and the outpouring of love from teammates and coaches—shaped one of the most unforgettable moments in program history. 🏐 Role Acceptance & Impact: Mel went from aspiring libero to elite server and DS, becoming one of the most dangerous weapons in UWO’s rotation and climbing to 2nd all-time in rally-era aces. More importantly, she found joy and pride in embracing her role and mastering it. 👟 Leadership Her Way: Mel’s brand of leadership was subtle but powerful—leading by example, being a steady and trusted teammate, and showing others that you can be both fierce on the court and gentle off it. 🎉 Locker Room Lore: Her iconic crowd-surfing in the locker room became a metaphor for her transformation—once quiet and reserved, she fully embraced her authentic self and gave others permission to do the same. 🧠 Mel’s Advice for Titans: “Be yourself. Stick to a routine. Talk about how you feel. Lean on people. Don’t isolate. Let people in.” Final Takeaway: “Authenticity is a superpower. When you stop fearing other people’s opinions and start living as your full self, everything changes—for you and for those around you.” Send us Fan Mail
Episode Summary: In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of Outside the Pins , senior volleyball player Joslyn (Joey) Wolf shares her journey through four years at UW-Oshkosh—from uncertain beginnings to empowered endings. With graduation approaching, Joey reflects on the challenges she’s overcome, the relationships that shaped her, and the joy she found in authenticity, vulnerability, and late-night laughter with teammates. From dealing with academic pressure and personal loss to discovering how to lead with compassion, Joey’s story reminds us all that struggle and strength are deeply connected. Key Topics: 🧬 Academic Grit: Joey talks through her double major and double minor in Biomedical Science, Chemistry, Microbiology, and Medical Laboratory Science, along with her hands-on phlebotomy work and the passion that drives her toward a behind-the-scenes medical career. 🏐 Volleyball and Vulnerability: From feeling like a small fish in a big pond to embracing her role on the team, Joey shares her emotional evolution—especially how finding connection and support helped her thrive on and off the court. 💎 Joey’s Gems: Moments of growth that shaped her experience—including the lesson that “if you’re the first to be vulnerable, it’ll domino,” the importance of taking up space, and why time between the big events matters most. 💔 Adversity and Resilience: From migraines and the loss of her grandmother to wrestling with doubts about her major and role on the team, Joey opens up about how struggle forged strength—and how faith, friendship, and her support system carried her through. 🌊 Leadership Through Presence: The late-career switch from “angry Joey” to joyful, competitive confidence came from one teammate’s belief—and the decision to fight for her team from a place of freedom instead of frustration. 🎨 Making Time Count: Whether watercolor painting with her roommate, hanging out in the kitchen, or climbing rocks at Pikes Peak, Joey emphasizes the power of presence and savoring small moments. Final Takeaway: “Life is about making heaven crowded and being extremely grateful and content with what you have and who you have in your life.” Send us Fan Mail
Episode Summary: In this dynamic crossover episode, guest host Riley Dahlquist steps in to spotlight a special roundtable of Titan athletes from soccer, gymnastics, and basketball. Together, they reflect on what it means to live the “Gold Standard” both on and off the court. From caffeine-charged locker rooms and travel memories to emotional support and team culture, this episode celebrates the vibrant, interconnected community of UW-Oshkosh Athletics. Laughter, leadership, late-night study sessions, and sideline support all blend into one shared mission: push each other to grow and bring contagious energy every day. Key Topics: ⭐ The Gold Standard, Redefined: Each team tailors the “Gold Standard” to their own identity—whether it’s a signed list of values, relentless energy, or showing up for teammates in and out of competition. 🏐 Titans Backing Titans: From standing-room-only volleyball games to gymnastics quad meets and road game road trips, athletes share their favorite memories of supporting each other—and how that energy lifts entire teams. 🤝 Culture Off the Court: Whether it’s spontaneous breakfasts at Blackhawk, open-invite study sessions, or campfires after finals, these Titans believe trust is built through connection outside the game. 🔥 Compete Hard, Love Harder: From caffeine highs and bench warnings to emotional hugs from teammates' parents, the athletes emphasize competing with joy, intensity, and deep appreciation for each other. ⚽ Team Dynamics & Leadership: Gymnastics, soccer, and basketball each offer a unique take on culture—from unconditional support and evolving standards to the power of freshmen stepping up as leaders. 🎭 Coach Quirks & Catchphrases: Whiteboards get broken. Fist bumps mean “you did it right.” And sometimes… the answer to the ref is “Built on Bond.” From fiery halftime speeches to silent head nods, the coaches of UW-Oshkosh are as memorable as they are impactful. Final Takeaway: Leadership doesn’t have one look. Success isn’t one moment. And support—between teammates, sports, and friends—is the heartbeat of the Titan family. Send us Fan Mail
Guest: Olivia Breunig, UW-Oshkosh Volleyball Alum Episode Summary: In this reflective and uplifting episode, Liv Brining joins Outside the Pins to look back on her full-circle journey as a student-athlete at UW-Oshkosh. As she prepares to begin occupational therapy school at UW-Madison, Liv opens up about what truly shaped her experience—finding her voice, embracing her role, and leading with authenticity. Key Topics: 🗣️ Finding Her Voice: How psychological safety and team trust unlocked Liv’s confidence as both a person and a leader. 🏐 The Oshkosh Fit: From Sauk Prairie and Capital Volleyball to committing during the COVID era—how she knew UW-Oshkosh was home. 🔁 Freshman to Senior: Lessons from moving through roles, managing self-worth, and building leadership through example and consistency. 💪 Culture of Support: The impact of mentorship, team standards, and campus resources—from strength coaches to nutritionists. 🧪 Research Recognition: A deep dive into Liv’s award-winning research on hydration and performance—and how it elevated both her academics and athlete identity. 💭 Leadership with Balance: Why great leaders listen, collaborate, and make space for joy—even while holding high standards. 🎓 Advice to Future Titans: Be present, work hard, and don’t let your role define your value—you are more than the game. Closing Thoughts: Liv’s story is one of purpose, perspective, and presence. Her journey is a reminder that the strongest leaders don’t lead alone—and that every role has value when it’s played with heart. Send us Fan Mail
Episode Summary: In this heartfelt episode, Abby Fregien joins Outside the Pins to reflect on her journey through UW-Oshkosh Volleyball—both on and off the court. With graduation around the corner and grad school on the horizon, Abby opens up about what truly shaped her experience: family, faith, and finding her authentic voice as a leader. Key Topics: 🏐 Growth through Adversity: How unconditional love and a “we over me” team culture create the foundation for meaningful development. 👟 The Oshkosh Journey: From Waukesha West to club volleyball to committing to UW-Oshkosh—how she found her fit and fell in love with the program. 💡 Values that Stick: Abby dives into her faith, family ties, and how gratitude and presence became daily practices. 🌱 Authentic Leadership: The moment she stopped trying to emulate others and leaned into leading by example—with kindness, clarity, and work ethic. 🎓 Academic Balance: Lessons from juggling elite athletics and earning her spot in UW-Madison’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program. 😂 Freshman Mishaps: A laugh-out-loud story of getting lost on a preseason trip—with no phones, wild outfits, and an A&W rejection. 🎯 Advice for Future Titans: Don’t wish away the hard moments—make memories, take chances, and show up as your full self. Closing Thoughts: Abby’s story is one of consistency, compassion, and quiet strength. Whether you’re a student-athlete, coach, or simply someone chasing your next chapter, this episode is packed with wisdom and warmth. Send us Fan Mail
We're back with a conversation with one of our recent graduates, Kalli Mau! In this one we talk about her path from high school all the way through her collegiate career. Some of the many highlights include perfectionism and process, UWOVB support, a value driven approach, balancing nursing and volleyball, Kalli's journey to return as a 5th year, and many other fun and valuable nuggets. We hope you enjoy this conversation! Links to things mentioned in the conversation: Recruiting Highlights Recruiting Skills Video Team Trip to Virginia UW-Oshkosh College of Nursing UW-Oshkosh Women's Volleyball Send us Fan Mail
Topics: Recruiting Experience The Fam Mission Award Role Evolution Biggest Challenge - A conversation about Jenna Barrette Travel Memories Advice To Future Titans Quick Hitters Net Worth: A UW Oshkosh Volleyball Documentary Send us Fan Mail
Topics: Hockey Fine Jewelry Program Exit and Reentry Educational Journey Momma Bear Claire Program Evolution Role and Mission/Why Memories Advice For Future Titans Send us Fan Mail
Topics: A funny city name - Oshkosh Education Journey Authenticity Program Evolution No Roommate Role and Mission/Why Spheres of Control Favorite Trip Advice For Future Titans Send us Fan Mail
In this fun episode guest host Carissa Sundholm has a conversation with three members of the University of Oshkosh Women's Volleyball program. The episode covers a wide variety of topics: Why UWO? What sets UWO apart? Recruiting process Majors What drew you to UWOVB Biggest challenges and lessons learned Dealing with injuries Success on and off the court Spring season details Team themes Funny memories Favorite match Advice to future freshman Funniest teammates What coach would survive on a deserted island Thanks for listening! Send us Fan Mail
An in depth "big rock" conversation with UW Oshkosh volleyball player Carissa Sundholm Previous Conversation w/ Carissa Topics: Why UWO Favorite Team Trip - Virginia Self Identity and Self Discovery Personal Philosophy Character Vision Psychological Framework Optimism Control Grit So many door slams in the background... Send us Fan Mail
An in depth "big rock" conversation with former UW Oshkosh volleyball player Becky Brezen Topics: Why UWO Honors College The Tryout Process Legacy - Lion Heart Award Leadership - Talking, Listening, and Leadership Program Evolution Confidence (external/internal) Advice For Future Titans Funny Stories - The Tube Quick Hitters Send us Fan Mail
An in depth "big rock" conversation with former UW Oshkosh volleyball player Emma Kiekhofer Topics: Why UWO The Offer Process Legacy - Evolution Award Leadership - Be Authentic Program Evolution Advice For Future Titans My Why Overcoming Challenges - Academics + Sport Prioritizing Managing Expectations Setter CAN Play Defense Quick Hitters Send us Fan Mail
An in depth "big rock" conversation with former UW Oshkosh volleyball player Brianna Vettese Topics: Why UWO Legacy - Man In The Mirror Award Overcoming Challenges - Change/Transitions Academic Journey Life Plans UWOVB Big Rocks - Embrace Challenges/Roles Leadership Journey Accountability Stories Quick Hitters Send us Fan Mail
An in depth "big rock" conversation with former UW Oshkosh volleyball player Samantha Silbernagel Topics: Why UWO Famous Knee Story Academic Journey Legacy - Author Award Leadership Journey Mental Health 1st Year Coach GPS Lost Campers Quick Hitters Send us Fan Mail