Episode
Ep 27: The Rise of Averi Carlson: From Diet Coke to Draft Dreams, to Finding Her Fit and Owning the Moment
- Podcast
- The Side Out Society Podcast
- Published
- Feb 25, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 2130
- Processing state
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Summary
In this episode, we’re joined by Atlanta Vibe setter and first-round draft pick Averi Carlson for a conversation that’s equal parts fun and insightful. Averi takes us through her volleyball journey, from dominating high school and studying Lauren Carlini film like it was a masterclass, to navigating the uncertainty of the transfer portal, and ultimately finding her perfect fit at SMU. She opens up about taking risks, trusting her instincts, and how those decisions helped shape her into the player she is today. We also dive into her transition to the pros, what it’s really like being a rookie in a high-speed, high-pressure environment, and how she’s learning to lead as a setter while stepping outside her comfort zone. And of course, we get into the important stuff: Diet Coke rankings, sushi reviews with teammates, bedazzling hobbies, and life in Atlanta. Whether you’re a setter, a player navigating your own path, or just a fan of the game, this episode is all about trusting the journey and embracing every step along the way. Follow us on social media:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sideoutsocietyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/sideoutsociety