

Pickleball Tips - 4.0 To Pro, A Pocket-Sized Pickleball Podcast
Michael O'Neal & Mircea Morariu
Welcome to 4.0 to pro, the pickleball podcast that focuses on a single shot, tip, or strategy to improve your pickleball game with every single pocket-sized episode. Our goal is to make you better every single time you hear our voices! We are covering in-depth pickleball tips and strategies like serving, returning, drives, 3rd-shot options, dinking, faster hands, and much more! Subscribe to become a better pickleball player! . For more tips, find us on Instagram at @4.0_to_Pro. If you have a Pickleball question, submit it at http://picklehelp.com. Now get out there and DOMINATE…. but don’t forget to have fun!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 8, 2025 • 38min
54: Lob ‘Em Till They Cry: Mastering the Most Annoying Shot in Pickleball
This week on 4.0 to Pro, Michael and Mircea go sky high—literally—with an entire episode dedicated to one of pickleball’s most chaotic, misunderstood, and deliciously evil weapons: the lob.
We break down when to use it, why it works, and how to make your opponents question all their life choices. From defensive desperation lobs to perfectly disguised offensive flicks, we’ll teach you how to add height, strategy, and a bit of mischief to your game.
Plus:
🏓 The psychology of the lob — why just the threat changes how people play
🔥 When (and why) to lob over the strong-side poacher
💨 Wind, spin, and paddle angle: how to stop sailing it long
🤝 Partner strategy — who stays, who goes, and how not to take a ball to the face
😈 The lob-drop-lob combo that ruins friendships but wins games
Stick around for stories from our recent Pickler Universe camp, the joy of post-game drinks in street clothes, and the eternal debate: should both partners retreat on a lob, or should one stay to cover?
If you’ve ever been lobbed into oblivion—or secretly love being that person—this episode is your permission slip to start sending balls to the moon.
🎧 Listen now and go lob responsibly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 29, 2025 • 34min
53: LIVE From our camp in Dallas Q&A!
Today we cover LOTS of current topics from positioning to grip to communication. It was a juicy Q&A from our live camp in Texas! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

4 snips
Sep 15, 2025 • 23min
52: PATIENCE. It's a Virtue. And A Key To Pickleball.
Patience is the secret weapon for success in pickleball, especially as players advance to the non-volley zone. Tune in for exciting insights on how new paddle technology can enhance your game. Discover strategic plays like the strong third shot drive and how teamwork can exploit opponents’ weaknesses. Plus, listen for personal stories that illustrate the importance of staying calm under pressure. Perfect your game by learning to balance patience with bold moves!

11 snips
Sep 9, 2025 • 32min
51: INSTANT Improvement on The Pickleball Court With This ONE Tweak!
Discover the secret sauce that can take your pickleball game to the next level! Learn how stability and footwork are crucial for consistency and performance. The discussion highlights common mistakes players make and how to master the transition zone for peak performance. Improve your shot execution with practical drills designed for stability and balance. Plus, get insights on targeted practice techniques to boost your skills while enjoying some light-hearted banter!

Sep 2, 2025 • 31min
50: Cross-Court Attacks Part 2, The Advanced Version
Today we discuss the phase II level of XC attacks in pickleball, brought to you by our own Mircea Morariu. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 26, 2025 • 16min
49: Say It Isn't SO! Cross Court Speed Ups??? (Part 1)
Today we visit the VERY controversial, but timely topic of cross court speedups. For years, these have been SPECIFICALLY called out as dangerous for your partner, but the advent of paddle technology combined with the trend of "creating offense" as much as possible has brought the conversation to the forefront. Enjoy this quite pocket-sized episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 18, 2025 • 45min
48: The OFFICIAL 402P Pickleball Drill Session!
This show is dedicated to Albin Morariu.
Link to PDF of drill sesh: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1zwcD95E8xiCM8EN0F75dnNIOpR_Xpb-V/view?usp=sharing
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

6 snips
Aug 10, 2025 • 34min
47: The Secret Sauce on Pickleball Returns!
Delve into the art of returning in pickleball, from the challenges of getting back into the game to mastering footwork and balance. Discover strategic techniques for effective serve returns, including targeting specific court areas and adapting to opponents. Personal anecdotes add flair as players learn to slice and place their shots effectively. Plus, uncover tips on exploiting weaknesses and enhancing core positioning for successful returns, ensuring a competitive edge on the court.

6 snips
Aug 6, 2025 • 30min
46: Triangle Patterns, How To Keep Your Hands Sweat-Free, How To Play Against Tennis Players, and More! Pickleball Q&A
Discover key insights on enhancing your pickleball skills, from mastering triangle patterns to player development strategies. Learn tips to tackle sweaty hands and maintain grip during intense games. Hear personal experiences from Aspen and weigh the benefits of tailored weight training. Gain reflections on adapting tactics when facing tennis players and the importance of maintaining focus in high-pressure situations. Join the lively discussion for fun tips and community engagement!

Jul 28, 2025 • 35min
45: How To Choose A Pickleball Coach!
Support The Show!
http://402p.com/support
To inquire about advertising on the podcast and/or live clinics and camps,
reach us at http://picklehelp.com or @4.0_to_Pro and @brainsdoc.
Follow Michael on IG @solohour
Get 10% off at CRBN Pickleball by using the promo code "402p"
Today we chat all things pickleball coach! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices