Future of Pickleball #85 - From NFL Star to Pickleball Advocate: Jake Plummer’s Mission
In Episode 85 of The Future of Pickleball, host Paul Olson sits down with NFL quarterback-turned-pickleball-champion-for-change Jake “The Snake” Plummer for a powerful and wide-ranging conversation. Jake opens up about:🏈 His journey from NFL stardom to discovering pickleball in his 40s🎾 Why pickleball is the perfect sport for retired athletes and aging bodies🧠 How paddle sports can help combat brain health issues like CTE and dementia🍄 His mission with functional mushrooms and the GetUmbo wellness brand👟 Why he’s pushing for youth clinics, free access, and inclusivity in pickleball🎒 How multi-sport youth development creates better athletes—and better humansJake is a passionate voice for health, movement, and finding joy in the game—whether you’re 18 or 80. Whether you’re a former athlete, a parent, or someone just getting into pickleball, this episode will motivate you to get on the court and keep moving.
--------
38:45
--------
38:45
Future of Pickleball #84 - The Spread of Global Pickleball
Welcome to Episode 84 of the Future of Pickleball podcast! In this episode, Paul Olson welcomes Jen Ramamurthy, secretary general and Oceania continental director of the Global Pickleball Federation (GPF) and Justin Maloof, chief competition officer at USA Pickleball and USA representative for GPF. Jen and Justin discuss the origins of the GPF, the role of Australia and Oceania in its development, and the importance of creating a unified international governing body for the sport. They also explain the challenges and opportunities in growing pickleball globally, including the need for resources, governance structures, and empowering every country to grow pickleball in their respective area. Collaboration among countries and organizations is important to foster pickleball's growth to establish a strong foundation for the future.
--------
45:50
--------
45:50
Future of Pickleball #83 - Technology's Impact on the Growth of Pickleball
Welcome to Episode 83 of the Future of Pickleball podcast! In this episode, Paul Olson welcomes Max Ade, the co-founder and CEO of Pickleheads, a technology platform designed to connect pickleball players and help organize games. They discuss the evolution of pickleball, the importance of technology in the sport, and how Pickleheads is addressing many challenges, including skill level matching, court utilization, and player ratings. Max shares his predictions on the future of pickleball, including global expansion, the need for inclusivity in ratings, and the role of coaching in player development.
--------
42:34
--------
42:34
Future of Pickleball #82 - Inside the International Association of Pickleball Facilities
Welcome to Episode 82 of The Future of Pickleball show! In this episode, Paul Olson talks all about the first meeting of the International Association of Pickleball Facilities (IAPF), which highlights the significance for pickleball facility operators. During this event, figures in the pickleball industry will discuss the benefits of the association, including best practices, insurance, and the growth of pickleball facilities globally. Paul also shares the involvement of brands like Selkirk in supporting these facilities, plus insights about the future of pickleball and its community.
--------
16:48
--------
16:48
Future of Pickleball #81 - Global Growth of Pickleball Will Rely on Player Personalities
Welcome to Episode 81 of The Future of Pickleball Show. In this episode, Paul Olson welcomes Carl Foster, founder and event director for Foster Events Group, to discuss the upcoming World Pickleball Convention & Conference. Carl also discusses his pickleball journey, the importance of networking and media coverage in growing the sport, and the future of pickleball, including global governance, how to work with different player personalities, and the potential for pickleball in the Olympics.
In Selkirk TV's Original Series, The Future Of Pickleball, host Paul Olson sits down with all of the biggest names in pickleball to discuss their thoughts on the explosive growth of pickleball, their role in the pickleball world, and what they think the future of pickleball holds. If you're a die-hard pickleball fan, this truly is a can't miss show.