The Ski Show - The Ultimate Show Ski Podcast

Afleveringen

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  Wisconsin State Recap 2026 22.07.2026 1u 3min

  Winning isn't easy. But this season has already seen incredible individual and team champions at the Regional level. Tune in as we recap Southern Regionals, Central Regionals, then turn our attention to Wisconsin State and highlight the individual competition and all 3 divisions of the team comp. We interview the winning show directors from the Division 3 Champion Chain Skiers, the Division 2 Champion Shawano Ski Sharks, and the Division 1 Champion Mad-City Ski Team, who captured ...
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  2026 Tournament Season Preview Draft Special 24.06.2026 59min

  In this episode, Matt, Adam, and special guest David Rezin transform the Tournament Season Preview into an exciting fantasy draft, having some fun breaking down each team's chances at regionals and nationals. You’ll discover: the inside scoop on team momentum, key personnel changes, and how different sites can influence team performance. We cover the surprising strengths of teams like the Midwest Ski Otters and Wonder Lake, the rising power of Cypress Gardens, and the strategic shifts of heav...
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  The History of Sea World 10.06.2026 58min

  In this episode, we dive into the fascinating evolution of SeaWorld’s water ski shows — from the park’s opening in Ohio in 1971 to the iconic Hawaiian and Hollywood-influenced productions that captivated millions. Longtime industry SeaWorld legends Dan Stewart, Tom Weber, and Jessica De Porter share behind-the-scenes insights, from the challenges of staffing nine shows a day in the early years to the transition from internal productions to expertly managed contract shows. You'll discover how ...
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  We Talkin' Bout Practice 06.05.2026 1u 11min

  Yep, we talkin' bout practice! This episode reveals how top show directors turn disorganized sessions into efficient, morale-boosting training sessions. Join us as Adam fires questions at Matt Heilman, David Rezin, and JT Sachs all about practice organization and efficiency. Discover strategies to maximize water time, set realistic goals, and keep your team engaged. Learn insider tips on structured planning and avoiding common pitfalls. Learn about chunking acts vs full show run through...
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  Bryson Mace 22.04.2026 36min

  Most young athletes have big dreams and wonder if they'll ever come true — Bryson Mace, still in high school, claimed the Division I Nationals freestyle jump championship. Behind that astonishing performance lies a story of years of struggle, perseverance, and relentless passion. From mastering wakeboarding tricks to finally cracking helis and flips after months of trying, Bryson’s journey proves that even the most talented are built through setbacks, not just success. Join us as we dive into...
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  Inside Team USA 08.04.2026 1u 8min

  Today we talk about all things Team USA. With special guest David Rezin, Adam takes the lead today as he peppers Matt and Dave with all sorts of questions about Team USA. The guys start with a fun Mount Rushmore game - we find out what is on their Mount Rushmore of Team USA memories. And then they dive in to the application process and timeline, the selection of the team, what they're looking for as they build the roster, training for Worlds, the rise of Team Australia and so much...
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  Show Ski Moms 25.03.2026 58min

  Most show ski moms are stereotyped as over-the-top, high-energy mothers who breathe life into the sport— but behind the costumes and splashy routines are real stories of dedication, love, and community. Meet three of the most passionate, genuine moms in the sport who share the joys, stresses, and surprising challenges of balancing family, competition, and side-splitting humor. Shar Carson, Brook Grubs, and Lesley Gunderson reveal how show skiing has shaped their families and friendships, and ...
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  The History of the Lake City Skiers 11.03.2026 49min

  Most show skiers dream of hosting the World Championships—and right now, the Lake City Skiers are making it happen for 2027. But their journey from a humble traveling team to hosting a major international event is a story of grit, innovation, and relentless community spirit that you can't miss. In this episode, we dive into the rich history of the Lake City Skiers, tracing their roots all the way back to the late 1980s. Discover how they transitioned from the Webster Ski Bees to the renown cl...
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  History of Think Tank and Awards Show Preview 25.02.2026 32min

  Most water skiers have no idea how deep the roots of Think Tank run—or how a legendary event that started with bar tabs and college chaos now celebrates 50 years of innovation and community. Cathy Luiting, a long time former Think Tank Chair, shares behind-the-scenes stories from the early days, revealing how beer tips and wild nights transformed into one of the sport’s most influential gatherings. This episode uncovers the surprising history that shaped an event that had 1500 attendees in it...
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  The Women of Freestyle Jump 11.02.2026 48min

  It could be easy to overlook the game-changing secret behind women’s freestyle jump that’s reshaping the sport. Four trailblazing athletes - Sarah Fiedorowicz, Bailey Hyatt, Josie Smerchek, and Gabbie Taschwer - reveal how their relentless perseverance, teamwork, and fearless innovation are pushing boundaries—turning the impossible into the new norm. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to shatter records and redefine what women can do on the water, this episode is your exclusive front-row s...
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  Roundtable Judges Q&A 28.01.2026 1u 3min

  Informative and educational. This episode to kick off our 2026 season is a fantastic discussion with 3 Senior Judges - Debbie Farra, Joel Johanningmeier, and Sandi Oleson. We talk about the mechanics of judging, the Difficulty Charts, Flow, Box Scores, and other deep topics about the sport of show skiing. The perspective of these three judges is invaluable and you are certain to learn a lot from this conversation. This one is for show ski nerds around the world! Follow us on...
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  Season Recap and Holiday Special 17.12.2025 53min

  In this holiday special episode, Matt, Adam, Dave, and Brad reflect on the highlights of the 2025 show skiing season, they take time to reflect gratitude to all the sponsors, and discuss many memorable moments from 2025 season. They also engage in a fun Mount Rushmore segment - their Mount Rushmore of Christmas characters. They also share a few predictions for the upcoming 2026 season. The camaraderie and passion for the sport shine through as they celebrate the achievements in the sport and ...
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  The History of Tampa Bay 03.12.2025 56min

  Today we are joined by two long time Tampa Bay members, Lindsey Hanson and John Summers as we explore all things Tampa. This conversation delves into the rich history of the Tampa Bay Water Ski Show Team, exploring its evolution, key influences, and the impact of significant figures like Garry Stout. The discussion highlights the team's heyday, the connection with professional shows, and the challenges faced after losing their primary ski site, Tower Lake. The emotional ties and community spi...
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  Freestyle Jump - Then & Now - Part 2 with Cale Ducane, Pete Hegarty, and Ethan Shulda 12.11.2025 1u 17min

  In Part 2 of our Freestyle Jump series, we have stars of today on the show - Cale Ducane, Pete Hegerty, and Ethan Shulda. The guys discuss all sorts of topics including the glory days of the freestyle tour era, the current crop of talent today, the role Buck Up played in it's growth, and the potential lost art of the mobius to the back landing tricks. They also go in-depth into their training and preparation for new tricks and even discuss some new tricks they're working on and wh...
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  Freestyle Jump - Then & Now - Part 1 with Hank Amos, Scott Clack, Mike Tolzmann 29.10.2025 1u 31min

  This one is a little longer than most, but oh so good! This is Part 1 of a two part series on Freestyle Jump called Then & Now. In this episode we talk with freestyle jump legends Hank Amos, Scott Clack, and Mike Tolzmann about the glory days of freestyle jump in the 1980's and 1990's. We dive in to a whole host of topics such as training techniques, the pro tour, the progression of tricks, the insane distances, the sponsorships, their thoughts on freestyle today, and so...
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  Is the Scoring System working? 15.10.2025 1u 11min

  In this episode of The Ski Show, hosts Matt Heilman, Adam Schaller, and guest David Rezin dive deep into the complexities of the scoring system in show skiing. They begin with a thorough recap of final Buck Up stop and it's unique scoring system. The main conversation in this episode focuses on the challenges and evolution of the scoring system as a whole in show skiing. The guys discuss the pros and cons of difficulty charts, the impact on creativity, and the importance of entertainmen...
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  The Rise of the Catfish Bay Jump Team 01.10.2025 42min

  In this episode of The Ski Show, hosts Matt Heilman and Adam Schaller discuss the latest happenings in the world of show skiing, including the upcoming Award Show season, the impressive achievements of the Catfish Bay Jump Team, and their recent success at Nationals. We welcome James Bruns, Adam Asmus, Dawson Wallen, Adam Hammer, and their driver Jeremiah Newman to the show. The conversation highlights the importance of consistency in training and preperation, the unique style of Catfish Bay'...
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  D1/D2 Nationals Discussion 17.09.2025 1u 11min

  Matt & Adam welcome David Rezin and Brad Satterlee for a deep dive into the future of D1/D2 Nationals. They start with a fall catch-up and chat about the American Saucer Social (ASS) Trick Trio fundraiser supporting Joseph Mohr in his fight against brain cancer. Next, the crew builds another Mount Rushmore—this time for the best things about fall—before turning to the main event: the evolving landscape of D1/D2 Nationals. From the logistics of a combined event to ideas for boosting parti...
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  2025 Skip and Willa Winners 03.09.2025 43min

  Join us as we celebrate the remarkable achievements of Dan Laughlin and Gabbie Taschwer, two of the most outstanding show skiers of the 2025 season. Dan, the Skip Gilkerson Award winner, and Gabbie, the Willa Cook Award recipient, share their journey to the top, reflecting on their surreal experiences and the hard work that led them to national recognition. Discover how these champions continue to inspire and lead in the world of show skiing, both on and off the water. Tune in for an inspirin...
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  2025 Nationals Recap 20.08.2025 1u 4min

  🎙️ In this Nationals Recap episode, we break down the action from D2 & D1 Nationals, highlight big wins like the Rock Aqua Jays’ victory, and talk standout performances across the board. We touch on Twin Lakes Cornfest, the future of D2 Nationals, and even recap the Show Ski Fantasy Draft. Plus, Adam opens up about his retirement from announcing, clearing up rumors and sharing what’s next. Special guest Dave Rezin, winning show director of the Rock Aqua Jays, joins the conversation to ref...