What does it really take for pickleball to go global — and make the Olympics? In Episode 87 of Future of Pickleball, host Paul Olson sits down with investigative pickleball journalist Erik Tice (‪@TheDinkPickleball‬) to break down the urgent need for a unified international governing body. 🚨 They discuss:

• The battle between the GPF, WPF, and IPF
• Why the 2032 Brisbane Olympics might be pickleball’s shot
• What “global governance” actually means
• Voting systems, IOC recognition, and the SportsAccord process
• How to grow pickleball in low-resource countries
• Why this matters more than tour rivalries or league politics

In this episode of Future of Pickleball, we dive into a game-changing conversation about the fast-growing world of senior professional pickleball—and why it’s becoming the heartbeat of the sport’s expansion.

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 humans

Jake 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Welcome to Episode 80 of The Future of Pickleball podcast. In this episode, Paul Olson welcomes Will Richards, founder and CEO of Dill Dinkers Pickleball. Will and Paul talk about the growth and development of Dill Dinkers, pickleball franchise models, market changes, the importance of programming, and customer base growth. Will also shares the growth of Dill Dinkers in China, Canada, Australia, and Dubai. "Global expansion will happen, but only with the right partners."

Welcome to Episode 79 of the Future of Pickleball show. In this episode, Paul Olson welcomes Ron Ponder, pickleball referee, member of the USA Pickleball rules committee, and the chair of the Officiating Committee for the Global Pickleball Federation (GPF). Ron discusses his pickleball journey, how refereeing the sport has evolved over the years, rule changes, and the impact of paddle testing on gameplay. They discuss the responsibilities of pickleball referees, particularly regarding line calls, and the biases players may have. Most referees are dedicated to growing the sport of pickleball and want to do all they can to maintain fair play. Ron also shares the role of the Global Pickleball Federation in growing pickleball internationally, especially in Asia, and why there is a need for a unified governing body to help pickleball grow and eventually (hopefully) be added as an Olympic sport.

Welcome to Episode 78 of the Future of Pickleball Show! In this episode, Paul Olson welcomes Scott Winters, co-founder of the Pickleball Management Group. Paul and Scott discuss the atmosphere at the US Open, the rollout courts, and how important player experience in pickleball events can be. Scott also shares his experience in racquetball and how it has formed his approach to pickleball, including lessons he learned from the decline of racquetball. They also discuss the introduction of the new Pickle Deck product, event planning strategies, and the potential for international growth of pickleball.