Above 180.com Bowling Podcast

On this episode, I sit down with pro shop operator, Silver-Certified Coach and ball reviewer for the Bowlers Journal International Vernon Peterson to discuss the latest trends shaping today’s bowling equipment market. Vernon shares insights on why brand loyalty still runs deep among many bowlers, what the new urethane rule really means for the average player, and how to achieve a similar reaction using shorter pin layouts. We also dive into the ongoing debate of thumb slugs vs. interchangeable thumbs—who benefits most from each setup, and how to decide what’s right for your game. Whether you’re a league bowler or chasing tour-level precision, this episode delivers pro shop wisdom you can use on the lanes.

On this episode, we sit down with Brooke Green, head bowling coach at Clarke University. Coach Green shares what her team has been focusing on after the first two events of the season and outlines her expectations moving forward. She also discusses her approach to recruiting, what she looks for in future bowlers, and gives us a glimpse into what a typical practice looks like for her teams.

On this episode, I sit down with Craig Spencer — owner of Virtue Bowling Supply and a USBC Silver Certified Coach. We dive into what bowlers should keep in mind as they return to league and tournament play after a summer break. Craig also shares the vision behind StrikeTutor, where he serves as Chief Product Officer, and explains how both bowlers can use it to to sharpen their game.

Marc McDowell is back on top — and he’s doing it in his 60s. In this episode, we dive into how he claimed his third Eagle at the 2025 USBC Open Championships and why this victory feels extra special. Marc opens up about his mindset heading into doubles and singles after a tough final team game, and how he’s maintained elite performance over decades of competition. He shares the training, preparation, and mental approach that keep him competitive against the best in the game — and what older bowlers can do to stay sharp. We wrap up with his unfiltered take on the team pattern and the grueling lane conditions in Baton Rouge that tested even the most seasoned pros.

On this episode, I’m joined by Jeff Richgels, Five-Time USBC Eagles winner and owner of 11thFrame.com, to break down this year’s USBC Open Championships and to make sense of the urethane discussion taking place. We dive into what led to the noticeably lower scores, including lane topography, oil patterns, and the chatter surrounding them. Jeff also shares his insights on the USBC's recent urethane survey — what it reveals, what it might signal for the future, and what he thinks the USBC’s next move could be when it comes to urethane regulation.