In this episode of the Planet Paintball Podcast, host Hunter Patterson interviews Jared Powell, the owner of Insane Paintball. They discuss Jared's journey in the paintball industry, the growth of Insane Paintball, and the importance of community events. Jared shares his experiences with old school paintball, the challenges of running indoor and outdoor fields, and the significance of retail presence in the paintball community. They also reflect on the evolution of competitive paintball, team dynamics, and the resurgence of classic paintball events. The conversation highlights the passion and dedication that drives the paintball community forward. In this conversation, Jared Powell shares his experiences and insights from over 25 years in the paintball industry. He discusses the importance of community and friendships within the sport, the challenges of running a paintball field, and the evolution of paintball culture. Jared emphasizes the need for a positive environment that fosters new players and encourages growth in the sport. He also reflects on the business side of paintball, including the impact of ownership and the importance of maintaining a clean and welcoming facility. The conversation highlights the balance between competition and recreation, and the need for the industry to adapt to retain players and promote the game effectively.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Planet Paintball Podcast
03:32 Jared Powell's Journey in Paintball
06:24 The Evolution of Insane Paintball
09:20 Hosting Blue Ridge Paintball Club Events
12:39 The Challenges of Indoor Paintball
15:19 The Transition to Outdoor Fields
18:35 Jared's Early Experiences with Paintball
21:13 From Casual Player to Competitive
24:15 The Birth of Insane Paintball
27:31 Reflections on the Paintball Community
36:35 The Paintball Journey Begins
39:34 Joining Dark Carnival: A New Chapter
41:26 Transitioning to Gridlock and Mayhem
45:11 The Rise of Extreme Sports Factory
50:13 The Troopers and Business Growth
52:04 The Resurgence of the Sabre Wolves
56:19 Winning in Europe: A Dream Come True
01:01:19 The Legacy of the Sabre Wolves
01:04:49 Returning to Dark Carnival: Full Circle
01:08:35 Building Friendships in Paintball
01:11:30 Navigating the Paintball Journey
01:14:43 The Business of Paintball
01:18:46 Creating a Welcoming Environment
01:24:31 The Importance of Facility Quality
01:30:41 The Culture of Paintball
01:36:18 The Future of Paintball: Mechanical vs Electronic
01:37:48 The State of Paintball: Growing the Game
01:41:40 Challenges in Competitive Paintball
01:47:17 Creating a Welcoming Environment
01:52:42 The Importance of Community in Paintball
02:01:43 Introduction to Planet Paintball Podcast
