AJ Bartlett, Diadem Tennis and Pickleball



A great talk today with AJ Bartlett of Diadem.

From Diadem:

At Diadem Sports, our journey began in 2015 with a vision that transcends tennis rackets and pickleball paddles. Founded Pompano Beach, Florida—the heartbeat of the sports industry—we set out to redefine what it means to play.

As the last American tennis brand, we’ve built our legacy on innovation. Our team, boasting over a century of combined experience as collegiate and pro players and coaches, saw beyond the status quo. We didn’t just see strings and rackets; we saw untapped potential. This insight led to breakthroughs like our Solstice Power string with patented Star Core Technology, offering unparalleled spin and control.

But our mission goes deeper than creating top-tier products. We believe in “Live to Play”—a philosophy that shapes everything we do. It’s about recognizing that when we pick up a racket or paddle, we’re engaging in something profoundly human. We play for physical fitness and nurturing our health and wellness. We play for the joy of social interaction, satisfying our innate desire to connect with others.

This belief has guided our expansion from tennis into the vibrant world of pickleball. It’s why we’ve diversified our product line with a full range of pickleball gear. Each product is a testament to our commitment to innovation, designed in-house to help you play better.

Yet, “Live to Play” is more than a tagline; it’s a call to action. In a world that often feels disconnected, we’re using sports as a bridge. Tennis and pickleball aren’t just games; they’re platforms for human connection. They’re opportunities to step away from screens, engage with others, and remember the simple joy of play.

As we continue to grow, partnering with distributors worldwide, our vision remains unchanged. We’re here to innovate, to redefine the game, but more importantly, to remind you of why you play. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a weekend warrior, when you choose Diadem, you’re choosing more than equipment. You’re embracing a lifestyle that celebrates movement, connection, and the sheer delight of being active.

Join us in this journey. Live to Play, and let’s make every serve, every volley, and every point a celebration of what makes us human.

Tennis and pickleball players should try Diadem.

Have a listen to Rick and AJ.

 


Dan Richer, Award-Winning Chef Behind Razza Pizza Artigianale



Wrapping up Pizza Expo in Las Vegas, Rick talks with Dan Richer, award winning pizza chef.

Dan offers insights into his craft, ingredient sourcing, and he has an upcoming collaboration with the leading dairy free brand Violife.

Dan has been recognized as one of the best pizza makers in the world, with Razza earning accolades such as:

Pizza Maker of the Year (2023) – 50TopPizza

Pizzeria of the Year (2021) – PizzaToday.com

One of the 22 Best Pizzas in North America (2024) – The New York Times (glowing review from Pete Wells)


Nicole Wilson, Fashion Model, Babes in Toyland Event



Nicole Wilson is a Toronto-based fashion model with a passion for high fashion, editorial, and runway. As a rising talent in the industry, she has already made her mark by closing runway shows and working with top creatives. With an eye on international opportunities, Nicole brings elegance, versatility, and professionalism to every project.

Rick talks to Nicole about the Babes in Toyland charity event in Las Vegas at Jason Aldean’s Kitchen and Rooftop Bar.

 


Bonnie-Jill Laflin, Author, Broadcaster, TV Personality



Rick is joined by Bonnie-Jill Laflin this week. To talk about the Babes in Toyland and Hounds for Heroes event.

As an author, Bonnie-Jill Laflin’s book “In a League of Her Own: Celebrating Female Firsts in Sports” was published in February and explores the stories of 19 impactful women in sports, including Billie Jean King, Danica Patrick, Jackie Joyner-Kersee, Laila Ali, Jeanie Buss, and Mary Lou Retton. Now available for purchase, Laflin’s book explores the sobering realities women face in the sports world and the many obstacles they had to overcome on the path to success.

Laflin is a trailblazing sports broadcaster, TV personality, author, and philanthropist. She is the first and only female NBA scout, holding the front office executive position with the Los Angeles Lakers, Bonnie-Jill holds many “firsts” throughout her prolific career. She’s the first woman to dance at a professional level for three teams, in two sports, starting with the NBA’s Golden State Warriors, and moving to the NFL for both the San Francisco 49ers and the Dallas Cowboys. She is the first female to be awarded six championship rings in two professional sports, earning a Super Bowl ring during her time cheering for the 49ers, and five NBA championship rings as an executive with the Lakers. Bonnie-Jill adds a new “first” to her repertoire as co-host of the brand-new “Women’s Western Sports Roundup” on the Cowgirl Channel.

Beyond her accomplishments in sports, Bonnie-Jill ventured into the world of broadcasting, bringing her knowledge and enthusiasm to the airwaves, reporting for various high-profile networks, including ESPN, NBA TV, NBC/NBC Sports, NFL Films, Westwood One, CBS, E!, BBC Sports, SiriusXM, NFR Live, and Fox Sports.

 


Olympic & Paralympic Champions Tara Davis-Woodhall and Hunter Woodhall



Rick is joined at Bar and Restaurant Expo by Olympic & Paralympic champions Tara Davis-Woodhall and Hunter Woodhall.

They are representing Rodeo de las Aguas Tequila.

Tara Davis-Woodhall, an Olympic long jump champion, and Hunter Woodhall, a Paralympic sprinter, are married and a power couple who met at a high school track meet and have been together since 2017, getting married in 2022.

Tara won gold in the women’s long jump at the Paris 2024 Olympics, and Hunter won gold in the 400-meter T62 final at the Paralympics.

When Davis and Woodhall are not competing on the field, they post on social media to connect with fans.

The two share their experiences as a couple and professional athletes on their YouTube channel, giving their nearly 800,000 subscribers an intimate first look at training sessions, personal milestones and details of their relationship.

In a video posted in August 2024, they vlogged the days leading up to Davis’ first competition at the Paris games, “We’re at our Second Olympics. Together this time.,” emphasizing that while it’s their second Olympic stint, it’s the first they can cheer for each other on the stands without COVID-19 pandemic restrictions.

A great interview, let’s see what is next for the Woodhalls.