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