The Joy of Padel

About The Joy of Padel

The Joy of Padel podcast, hosted by Minter Dial, a Padel player since 1974, is an exhilarating show that delves into the captivating stories of notable Padel personalities worldwide. You'll be treated to exclusive anecdotes, valuable tips, and humorous moments shared by esteemed professional players, industry insiders, and passionate padel enthusiasts. Now in its fourth season that aligns with the pro tour, you can anticipate two engaging episodes per month. You will find the episode show notes on Joy Of Padel.

Publisher

Evergreen Podcasts

Category

health & fitness · leisure · sports

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

27 Jun 2023

Latest episode

6 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

82 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   6 Oct 2026

   Inside the Little Book of Padel: Ross Thornley’s Personal and Professional Transformation (JOPS04E19)

   In this episode of Joy of Padel, we explore the unique journey of Ross Thornley—entrepreneur, thought leader, and passionate padel enthusiast—whose insatiable curiosity has led him from founding AQAI, a company immersed in AI and adaptability, to writing the Little Book of Padel, a lively chronicle of his first ten weeks discovering the game. The discussion delves into the vibrant community and culture of padel, examining what draws people into the sport and why its low barrier to entry and joyful atmosphere make it uniquely accessible. Thornley brings a beginner’s perspective, unpacking how naivety and curiosity can fuel rapid learning, foster connection, and break down the usual barriers to improvement. The conversation further explores the sometimes ‘cliquey’ dynamics of padel clubs, the ego traps of progressing players, and how the social fabric of padel is built, sometimes echoing the etiquette-driven world of golf but with a distinctly welcoming twist. A key theme that emerged is the centrality of ego, vulnerability, and adaptability—on and off the court. The exchange considers how padel reveals character in the opening minutes of play, serving as a real-time test of unlearning, openness, and teamwork. The importance of celebrating not just personal or team wins but collective joy among all four players is highlighted, illustrating why padel stands out among racquet sports as an ongoing exercise in humility and shared triumph. Listeners will come away with fresh perspectives on why padel is the “sport du jour”—a uniquely modern game that blends physical challenge, social connection, and a continual invitation to adapt, grow and enjoy the process together. Tune in for this spirited deep-dive into the world of padel and the lessons it holds for anyone seeking more joy, community, and adaptability both on and off the court. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2. 

   22 Sept 2026

   The Art of Joyful Play: Alfonso Patacho’s Winning Padel Mindset (JOPS04E18)

   In this conversation, the Joy of Padel welcomes a dynamic exchange with Alfonso Patacho, whose unique background bridges Spanish, British, and Portuguese roots. A dedicated competitor and coach, Alfonso shares his journey from aspiring young golfer in Spain to representing Team GB in international padel, including a memorable bronze medal at the 2015 Junior World Championships and playing on centre court at the Premier Padel P1 in London. The conversation focused on the essential ingredients for progression in padel—balancing fun and discipline, fostering maturity on court, and the importance of playing with intention. One concept discussed was the transformative power of communication between partners, with Alfonso offering nuanced advice on tailoring in-game calls and adapting strategies for both amateurs and seasoned players. The discussion explored the art of choosing the right side and partner in competitive settings, emphasising self-awareness and adaptability as key drivers of success. We heard about the challenges and joys of playing against future world number ones, practical coaching insights for amateurs seeking real improvement, and why stepping outside one’s usual circle and mixing with various playing styles accelerates growth. Rounded out by reflections on handling pressure, managing energy, and what truly brings joy to the court, this episode is a treasure trove for anyone passionate about advancing in the sport of padel. Whether you’re a regular at local socials, dreaming of a future in competition, or simply curious about the subtle craft of great padel partnerships, tune in as the Joy of Padel unpacks the journey, mindset and methods behind building skill—and lasting enjoyment—in this fast-growing sport. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

3. 

   8 Sept 2026

   Finding Your True Padel Level: Rethinking Ratings and Enjoyment on Court (JOPS04E17)

   In this solo episode of the Joy of Padel podcast, Minter Dial departs from his usual interview format to delve into one of the sport’s most contested and consequential questions: what level are you, really? Drawing on both personal anecdotes and the quirks of popular platforms like Playtomic, the episode focused on how self-assessment and padel ratings shape our experiences on and off the court. One concept presented was the temptation to inflate our abilities—whether through ego or optimism—and the pitfalls of relying too heavily on numbers alone. A key theme that emerged was the idea that knowing your real level is not a judgement but a gift, helping players select better games, improve their practice, and become stronger partners. The discussion explored the many variables that impact your rating: from communication, positioning, and shot selection, to your physical readiness and how you handle pressure at five-all in the deciding set. Several points were raised, including the limitations of automated rating systems, why communication with your partner is just as important as technical skill, and the value of curiosity and humility in honest self-assessment. Whether you’re striving to level up, searching for more satisfying matches, or simply seeking more joy from your time on court, this episode offers practical tips, heartfelt stories, and an open invitation to reflect on your own padel journey. Tune in as Minter encourages every player to approach their game—and their number—with curiosity, candour, and above all, joy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Who has been a guest on The Joy of Padel

Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.

• Najwa Salhab
• Marta Talaván
• Fredrik Ask
• Loïc Fery

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

YouTube views

120,032

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Spotify

5.0 / 5

5 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 79 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

82

Social presence

91

YouTube

82

Engagement

60

Contact The Joy of Padel

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.