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The Road to Number 1: Ariana Sánchez on Leadership and Overcoming Challenges in Padel (JOPS04E05)

The Road to Number 1: Ariana Sánchez on Leadership and Overcoming Challenges in Padel (JOPS04E05)

by | Mar 25, 2026 | , ,

This episode of JOY OF PADEL features Ariana Sánchez, world number 1 and a benchmark in women’s padel, in conversation with Minter Dial. Ariana shares her journey from her beginnings to reaching the top, reflecting on the pressure of staying number one, managing criticism on social media, and the value of communication on court. She discusses her new project with Andrea, the growth of women’s padel, and the crucial role of mental training.

Key points:

Emotional control and discipline make the difference in high-level competition.

Ariana highlights the importance of the lob and communication in professional play.

Puttin’ in the Fridge: The Cold Truth About Padel Tactics

Puttin’ in the Fridge: The Cold Truth About Padel Tactics

by | Mar 24, 2026 | ,

Padel has given birth to a wonderfully absurd tactic called “the fridge.” In a foursome, if one player is clearly stronger, some opponents simply pretend they don’t exist. Every ball goes to the weaker partner, who feels gloriously important, while the better player stands there, slowly defrosting on the side. Tactically, it’s effective; morally, in a friendly match, it’s about as brave as running away from the killer rabbit. If you want to improve, don’t freeze out the best player. Hit at them, learn from them, and leave the fridge for the post‑match beverages.

Cortisol, Creativity, and Connection: Justin Hai’s Blueprint for Reclaiming Rest and Reducing Stress (MDE647)

Cortisol, Creativity, and Connection: Justin Hai’s Blueprint for Reclaiming Rest and Reducing Stress (MDE647)

by | Mar 22, 2026 | , , ,

In this episode of Minter Dialogue, Minter Dial chats with entrepreneur Justin Hai, author of Stress Nation. They dive into the impact of technology on stress and sleep, the misunderstood role of cortisol, and how forming routines can help reclaim well-being. Justin Hai shares personal stories, practical advice, and insights from his company Rebalance Health. Discover why joy, boundaries, and living in the moment are key to thriving in today’s fast-paced world.

The One Thing Better Padel Players Do That Many Aren’t Doing

The One Thing Better Padel Players Do That Many Aren’t Doing

by | Mar 17, 2026 | ,

Communication in padel is not a nice-to-have; it’s the secret sauce between chaos and chemistry. From Level 0 “Dead Parrot” silence (only grunts and glares) to Level 3 “War Room” strategy chats, how you talk with your partner shapes every point. The best pros — like Marta Ortega, Alejandra Salazar and Fernando Belasteguín — treat communication as a weapon and a glue: calling positions, sharing emotions, adjusting tactics. And just like in life, business, or even the military, when communication breaks down, everything else soon follows. Talk, listen… then say: “Next point. ¡Vamos!”

Walking the Leadership Ledge: Tess Fyalka on Courage, Authenticity, and Team Alignment (MDE646)

Walking the Leadership Ledge: Tess Fyalka on Courage, Authenticity, and Team Alignment (MDE646)

by | Mar 15, 2026 | , ,

In this episode of Minter Dialogue, Tess Fyalka joins Minter Dial to explore the journey of stepping into leadership—what she calls “walking the leadership ledge.” They dive deep into the challenges new leaders face, from managing team dynamics and navigating organizational politics to building confidence and resilience. If you want real, actionable insights on leading with curiosity, authenticity, and courage, this conversation is a must-listen.

Building Bridges and Resilience With Padel: Ben Hanley’s Global Military Story (JOPS04E04)

Building Bridges and Resilience With Padel: Ben Hanley’s Global Military Story (JOPS04E04)

by | Mar 11, 2026 | , , , ,

This episode of JOY OF PADEL welcomes Flight Lieutenant Ben Hanley, as he joins host Minter to share his journey from Ipswich to Madrid and how he discovered padel through a NATO posting. Ben reflects on overcoming injury, becoming an M3-certified coach, and launching military padel clubs that unite diverse communities and support mental health. The conversation highlights padel’s unique power for connection and resilience across cultures and ranks.

Key points:

Ben is driving padel’s growth within the UK military, using sport to build community and well-being.

Padel’s accessibility and camaraderie support recovery, leadership, and inclusive competition.

How to Manage Overheads in Padel – Zones, Shot Selection, Intention and Direction

How to Manage Overheads in Padel – Zones, Shot Selection, Intention and Direction

by | Mar 9, 2026 | ,

Padel overheads are nothing like tennis smashes. In tennis, you see a lob and simply try to finish the point. In padel, every floating ball forces a three-part decision: which overhead to play, where to strike it from on your side, and with what direction and intention. Between the bandeja, víbora, rulo, gancho, remate and the cheeky amago, you’re managing time, position and pressure rather than just power.

Left-Handers, Big Smashers and Control Freaks: Who Should Play Which Side in Padel?

Left-Handers, Big Smashers and Control Freaks: Who Should Play Which Side in Padel?

by | Mar 4, 2026 |

Padel players obsess over which side they “are” – left or right – as if it were a personality type. Yet the real question isn’t your favourite side, it’s which combination makes the strongest team. The serve return matters, but since you only hit it roughly one in four points, building your side choice around that single shot is a trap. Handedness and playing style are far more important: left-handers almost always belong on the right, and among right-handers, the stronger finisher usually plays left. In the end, choosing sides is less about ego and more about smart partnership.

AI, Brand Moats, and the Power of Owned Media with Cody Schneider (MDE644)

AI, Brand Moats, and the Power of Owned Media with Cody Schneider (MDE644)

by | Mar 1, 2026 | , , , , ,

On this episode of Minter Dialogue, Cody Schneider shares insights from his journey scaling startups, building AI-driven growth tools, and why distribution often beats product. Dive into practical tips on digital transformation, fostering innovation inside organizations, and leveraging owned media to create real “digital gravity.” Whether you’re leading a brand or launching your first startup, this conversation is packed with actionable wisdom on staying ahead in today’s fast-evolving landscape.

To Book Minter!

I’m Minter Dial and I serve my clients by elevating the debate and energy, telling powerful stories and connecting people and ideas. My mission to insert more meaningfulness into our lives and at work. I relish being an engaging professional speaker on leadership, transformation and branding. I’m known for being someone who walks the talk and delivers on or above expectations. I’m the author of four award-winning books, including the second edition of my award-winning book, Heartificial Empathy (April 2023, available in English and French), You Lead published by Kogan Page that won the Business Book Award 2022, and Futureproof (FT-Press/Pearson) that won the Business Book Award 2018. I’m also the producer of the award-winning WWII book and documentary film The Last Ring Home.

My last major published project was Dialogos, Fostering More Meaningful Conversations that was published weekly via Substack, over 79 weeks. I am currently working on a new book, The Avatar Trap.  

Click here to inquire about booking Minter!

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