From a game he once believed was reserved for Florida fun to launching an AI tool that’s transforming the way we understand the sport, Ryan Hampton’s journey with pickleball is a positive one. Dive in as Ryan unveils his intriguing first encounter, his passion project PB Vision, and his celestial dreams for the ultimate pickleball match.
Pickleball Interviews
Dink ‘n’ Dish: Gordon G.G. Gebert of National Pickleball League
When retired rock star Gordon G.G. Gebert traded his keyboard for a pickleball paddle, he embarked on a journey that was as thrilling as any world tour. From diving head first into playing the sport to founding the National Pickleball League (NPL), Gebert’s story is a fascinating intersection of music, sports, and the relentless pursuit of passion.
Dink ‘n’ Dish: Chris Clark of Toss and Spin
Today you meet Chris Clark, the dynamic founder of Toss and Spin, an events company that breaks down barriers, making racquet and paddle sports available to all.
After a 9-year tenure in the corporate world, a furlough during the pandemic became the catalyst for Chris to take a different path. His lifelong passion for racket sports culminated in the creation of Toss and Spin, which began as a tennis-centric venture and soon expanded to include pickleball.
Dink ‘n’ Dish: An Interview With ZeroZeroStart Pickleball Lanyard
Turning into an athlete at 50 years old? No problem! At least not for today’s guest!
Once a skeptic, today’s guest now champions the fastest-growing sport in the US, even inventing a unique pickleball lanyard for the game. From picking up her first paddle amid COVID-19 restrictions to playing daily and participating in tournaments, Claudia’s story reflects a journey of discovery, exercise, and fun. Learn about pickleball’s social dynamics, her vision for its future, and advice for beginners.
Dink ‘n’ Dish: Rich Cat Supply Founder Jenny Johnson
Welcome to another Dink’ n’ Dish, where Pickleball Rookie takes a deep dive into the life of passionate pickleball enthusiasts and entrepreneurs. Our guest today is a former collegiate tennis player and a PPR-certified pickleball instructor. Today, Jenny Johnson shares her journey from discovering her love for pickleball to founding a pickleball brand, Rich Cat Supply, aimed at serving the rapidly growing pickleball community. Get ready to be inspired by her story and learn more about her vision for the future of this addictive sport.
Dink ‘n’ Dish: – Pickleball Tours and Travel With Michael Boraas
Dink ‘n’ Dish serves up pickleball profiles that uncover the heart and soul of the pickleball community, one conversation at a time.
Today we chat with Michael Boraas, the founder of Pickleball Tours, a travel consultancy that brings the joy of pickleball to enthusiasts while curating unforgettable experiences. From European river cruises to Floridian wellness retreats, if you have a group looking to enjoy the sport across the globe, Pickleball Tours is your guide.
After years of working in the corporate world, Michael made a bold career shift, one that many of us pickleball fanatics dream of: starting his own business and even launching a volunteer career coaching platform.
Dink ‘n’ Dish: Big Dill Pickleball Co. Founder Katy Luxem
Dink ‘n’ Dish serves up pickleball profiles that uncover the heart and soul of the pickleball community, one conversation at a time.
My pickleball opponent glared at me, eyes ablaze with fiery intensity.
He stood 14 feet away, close enough for me to watch his muscles pulsate; his nose flair.
Tension high, pressure mounting.
And then I saw it.
Attached to his white-knuckled hand was a paddle adorned with a smiling pickle.
Not just any smiling pickle. But the cutest and friendliest pickle you will ever see.
Damn, I love pickleball.