Out of Rotation

Queens of the Burgh
  • 5.0 (5)
  • Volleyball

Welcome to Out of Rotation—the only podcast where volleyball takes center stage... and bad takes are immediately challenged. Every episode, we dive into the biggest stories, the biggest matches, and the biggest personalities in Pittsburgh volleyball. From Western PA headlines and college recruiting to unforgettable moments, spirited debates, and maybe the occasional complaint call... nothing is off limits. So whether you're a player, coach, parent, official, or someone who still thinks a libero should be allowed to attack above the net... you're in the right place.

  1. Oct 13

    Episode 16

    What does it take to build a confident team and a culture that lasts? John and Scott welcome Dr. Jodi Burns to Out of Rotation for a conversation about the mental side of coaching and building a program. We explore player confidence, accountability, pressure, team roles, and the emotional demands coaches face—with practical situations and ideas to bring back to your next practice. Dr. Burns’ Recommended Reading Continue the conversation with these resources recommended by Dr. Burns: Game Changers — Dan Gold Stories paired with insightful questions and action plans.The Champion’s Mind: How Great Athletes Think, Train, & Thrive — Jim Afremow, PhD Explore mental skills, motivation, and reflection. Dr. Burns highlights Chapter 2, “Mastering the Mental Skills,” along with Chapters 7 and 8.Max Out Mindset — Larry Widman, M.D. Strategies and exercises for developing and practicing mental skills.The Right Call — Sally Jenkins A favorite of Dr. Burns, who considered using it as a textbook for a sports-themed first-year seminar.Playing Big: Find Your Voice, Your Mission, Your Message — Tara Mohr A book focused on women finding their voice, with valuable perspective for men who coach women, too.PEAK: Secrets from the New Science of Expertise — Anders Ericsson and Robert Pool An exploration of deliberate practice and the path to expertise. Dr. Burns gives a special shoutout to Sharon Watson, whose success she connects with this approach.Mindset: The New Psychology of Success — Carol S. Dweck, PhD A resource for exploring growth mindset and perseverance.Chasing Greatness — Karch Kiraly

  2. Oct 12

    Episode 15

    The stretch run is here! In Episode 15 of Out of Rotation, we recap Week 5 across Western Pennsylvania high school volleyball and preview the Week 6 matchups with playoff berths on the line. We discuss the results shaping the standings and what to watch as teams push toward the postseason. This episode is sponsored by Elevated Performance VB.

  3. Oct 10

    Episode 14

    This week on Out of Rotation, John Skarupa and Scott Sundgren welcome Chartiers Valley head coach Cullen Vereb and players Megan Dumpman, Payton Friburger and Allegra Susenna for a look inside Colts volleyball. We talk team chemistry, the experience of a returning roster and the goals driving the program. Allegra also shares her journey from Italy to Western Pennsylvania, offering a unique perspective on volleyball, school and finding her place with a new team. Get to know the personalities behind the jerseys—and what brings this group together on and off the court.

  4. Oct 5

    Episode 13

    In Episode 13 of Out of Rotation, John Skarupa and Scott Sundgren break down Week 4 results from across Western Pennsylvania and welcome Ken Wunderley for the latest Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Top 5 rankings. We also preview some of the best upcoming matchups and update Olivia Babcock’s all-time kills record watch. Section races are heating up, and there’s plenty to talk about!

  5. Oct 1

    Episode 12

    We’re joined by Pitt Volleyball Associate Head Coach Kellen Petrone and Assistant Coach Michael Fisher for a special episode! We talk Olivia Babcock and Blaire Bayless returning for a fifth year, the upcoming Top 5 showdown with SMU on WPIAL High School Night, and Babcock’s chase of Pitt’s all-time career kills record. A huge week for Pitt Volleyball—and we’re breaking it all down!

  6. Sep 28

    Episode 11

    Week 3 brought nine matches with first place on the line, and John and Scott are breaking down the games and their impact on the section races. Then it’s time to look ahead to Week 4, where several teams are battling for second place. Plus, Week 2 Jim Shorkey Queens Player of the Week Emily Muir joins us for a short interview.

  7. Sep 26

    Episode 10

    Three Western PA programs hit the road for the Endless Summer Volleyball Tournament in Virginia Beach! Players and coaches from Avonworth, Thomas Jefferson and Frazier join us to talk about the competition, road trip, team bonding and everything that made the weekend one to remember.

  8. Sep 21

    Episode 9

    Episode 9 of Out of Rotation recaps the biggest results and standout performances from Week 2 before looking ahead to a loaded Week 3, featuring nine matchups with first place in the section on the line. Plus, we crown our first-ever Jim Shorkey Queens Player of the Week, Thomas Jefferson’s Viola MacNeil!

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5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Welcome to Out of Rotation—the only podcast where volleyball takes center stage... and bad takes are immediately challenged. Every episode, we dive into the biggest stories, the biggest matches, and the biggest personalities in Pittsburgh volleyball. From Western PA headlines and college recruiting to unforgettable moments, spirited debates, and maybe the occasional complaint call... nothing is off limits. So whether you're a player, coach, parent, official, or someone who still thinks a libero should be allowed to attack above the net... you're in the right place.

Information

  • Creator
    Queens of the Burgh
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    16
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Queens of the Burgh

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