Welcome to the Business of Pickleball, your go-to podcast for industry insights. If you're in the pickleball business, staying informed is crucial. This podcast offers interviews with leaders actively building pickleball enterprises.

Today’s episode features hosts Robert Allen and David Feldman discussing a specialized insurance solution for pickleball clubs—the Pickleball Insurance Program (PIP). PIP provides tailored coverage quickly and easily at pippprogram.com or visit their booth at the Pickleball Brief Business Summit.

After a holiday break and successful summit, we're back with an exciting guest who shares our passion for fitness in sports—Ryan Van Winkle. Ryan has developed innovative applications within racket sports through his company Bounce, focusing on teaching and learning efficiency.

Ryan introduces the Racket Fitness Experience (RFX), which merges group fitness with racket sports, similar to OrangeTheory or CrossFit but tailored to pickleball. The program involves engaging classes using resistance bands suitable for all fitness levels, offering both play sessions and high-intensity interval training on specially designed tetra courts.

This approach not only improves player performance but also attracts new participants who are interested in fun ways to stay fit rather than traditional gym routines. RFX aims to create inclusive experiences that can bring more people into racket sports by providing diverse programming options similar to those offered by gyms.

For club owners looking to enhance member engagement and retention, incorporating unique programs like RFX can be beneficial. It creates community vibes while adding value beyond regular gameplay—perfect for attracting non-traditional players seeking enjoyable fitness alternatives.

To support participating clubs further, RFX limits partnerships geographically, ensuring exclusivity while assisting them in marketing efforts both physically at venues as well as digitally across social media platforms—helping maximize visibility among potential members locally interested in not just playing but experiencing something fresh within their routine workouts!

People might discover they enjoy pickleball by combining it with other sports, like football. This approach is similar to what RFX does by tapping into the fitness market. Clubs can target gym-goers and offer them a fun new class, drawing in fresh audiences beyond just pickleball enthusiasts.

Pickleball clubs have an edge because it's easy to learn but hard to master, unlike tennis which can be intimidating for beginners. With structured games and courts, even newcomers can quickly enjoy the sport and join leagues or tournaments.

Club owners should focus on marketing strategies that attract diverse groups since relying solely on existing enthusiasts won't sustain growth. Offering injury prevention classes could keep members engaged longer without injuries affecting participation rates.

RFX aims to create a community through its group fitness programs designed for racket sports. Unlike endurance-based activities, where competition is individualistic, these programs promote interaction among players while ensuring safety during exercises.

The business model involves revenue sharing with no upfront costs for clubs; instead of licensing fees alone as initially planned before feedback showed preference towards shared earnings between parties involved—aligning incentives better overall!

We adapted our business model, offering an annual license fee for all-inclusive clubs where revenue sharing is complex. We're exploring integrating our format into court reservation apps to track reservations effectively.

We've begun discussions with leading software companies like Court Reserve and Play by Point. With enough clubs on board, we&

Takeaways

• Jim Balding is the founder of The ANT Group, specializing in pickleball facilities.
• In two and a half years, Jim's team has designed over 500 pickleball courts.
• The demand for pickleball courts is increasing, with many new facilities planned.
• Designing for the guest experience is crucial for facility success.
• Common mistakes include incorrect court sizes and poor column placements.
• Lighting should be designed to illuminate the entire play area, not just the court.
• Regulatory challenges include zoning, occupancy, and plumbing requirements.
• Flooring choices can significantly impact the guest experience.
• Avoid using red and yellow colors in court design to reduce visual fatigue.
• Understanding the business model is essential for facility owners. Jim's journey into pickleball began with a love for sports.
• The club experience fosters community and engagement.
• Having a dedicated club environment enhances play.
• Paddle technology is evolving, but regulations are crucial.
• Facility design should incorporate advanced technology.
• Integrating services like therapy can enhance member experience.
• Planning is essential for successful facility development.
• Collaboration among stakeholders is key to success.
• Safety regulations are vital in facility design.
• The growth of pickleball relies on promoting the game effectively.

Show Notes: The Business of Pickleball Podcast

Episode Title: The 2024-25 Pickleball Business Reality Check- Reality vs. the Hype Train -> What's REALLY Going On...

Hosts: Robert Allen & David Feldman

Introduction
Welcome to "The Business of Pickleball," your industry insider podcast.
Designed for pickleball business owners seeking insights, interviews with leaders, and strategic advice.

Key Discussion Points:

Challenges Facing Club Owners:

• Programming for members.
• Securing sponsorships for clubs/tournaments.
• Selecting appropriate software solutions.

Manufacturers & Service Providers:

• Scaling businesses amidst growing competition in the pickleball market.

Upcoming Event:

• Pickleball Brief Business Summit, Dates: October 17th & 18th (Virtual Event)
• Focus on actionable strategies from over 16 expert presenters.
• Aimed at addressing key challenges faced by businesses in the industry.

Main Conversation Themes:

• Visionary and Strategic Thinking:

Industry Maturation:

• Emphasis on understanding life cycles similar to human growth – beginning, middle, end, rebirth/morphing into new forms.
• Current state likened to a 'child-like' phase needing sophistication.

Sales Strategies:

• Importance of having a clear sales plan beyond direct-to-consumer methods.
• Need for professional sales teams hunting strategically rather than relying solely on brand ambassadors or low-hanging fruit tactics.

Financial Models and Funding Structures:

• Critique on private equity's role; often leading to unsustainable practices focused more on short-term gains rather than long-term value creation.
• Venture Capital approach discussed as calculated risk-taking with overarching marketplace strategies that go beyond individual company success/failure rates.

Market Dynamics Observed by Hosts:

• Feedback loops from club operators indicating lack of follow-through post initial supplier interactions—highlighting gaps in professionalism within B2B engagements.
• Concerns about outdated ambassador programs not yielding sufficient ROI compared against potential structured outbound sales efforts targeting key accounts/regions effectively driving revenue streams sustainably upwards instead!
• Future Outlooks Discussed

The Business of Pickleball Podcast: Episode 15 Insights

Hosts: Robert Allen and David Feldman
Guest: Ben Johnson, Entrepreneur and EOS Implementer
Ben's website: https://www.eosworldwide.com/ben-johnson
Ben's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjohnsoneos/
Ben's email: ben.johnson@eosworldwide.com

Episode Overview:

In this episode, hosts Robert Allen and David Feldman dive into the intricacies of running a successful pickleball business. They are joined by Ben Johnson, an experienced entrepreneur with a background in accounting, private equity, and real estate fund management. Now an EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) implementer, Ben shares valuable insights on building purpose-driven organizations.

Key Topics Discussed:

1. Challenges for Club Owners:

• Programming for members.
• Securing sponsors for clubs and tournaments.
• Deciding on the right software solutions.

2. Struggles for Manufacturers & Service Providers:

• Scaling businesses in a competitive market.

3. Pickleball Brief Business Summit:

• A virtual B2B event scheduled for October 17th and 18th.
• Features actionable strategies from over 13 expert presenters.
• Focuses on tackling challenges head-on with practical solutions.

4. Introducing Guest - Ben Johnson:

Ben discusses his journey from being an accountant to becoming passionate about helping business owners live their best lives through effective leadership and operational strategies.

Background Highlights:

• Experience in private equity focusing on buying/selling businesses.
• Roles as CFO/CEO in entrepreneurial ventures.
• Current role as an EOS implementer aiding leadership teams to achieve their goals efficiently.

Core Discussion Points:

• Building Effective Teams Through Core Values:

Purpose Driven Organizations:

• Importance of clear purpose within companies to attract like-minded individuals who resonate with core values beyond just moral ethics but also business ethos.

Identifying Core Values:

• Example given is “abundance” vs “scarcity”.
• Hiring based on these values ensures alignment within the team which fosters better collaboration towards common goals.

Reinforcing Core Values:

• Continuous reinforcement through recognition when employees exhibit these values helps maintain company culture effectively over time despite external distractions or internal changes.

Operational Strategies & Discipline:

Quarterly Prioritization & Weekly Check-ins:

Here’s a more concise version:

Setting quarterly priorities and conducting weekly check-ins help track progress against goals and address obstacles quickly. This approach keeps operations aligned with the long-term vision, preventing distractions from daily tasks and unexpected challenges. By maintaining organizational discipline throughout each cycle, all levels of the organization work together effectively, leading to sustained success.

# Show Notes - The Business of Pickleball Podcast

## Episode Title: Experiential Marketing- What’s Next for Pickleball Trade Shows and Business Events

### Hosts:
- **Robert Allen** - Co-host and Publisher at Pickleball Brief.
- **David Feldman** - Editor-in-chief at Pickleball Brief.

### Key Discussion Points:

1. **Introduction**
   - Overview of the podcast's purpose: Providing insights, information, and interviews with industry leaders to help pickleball businesses thrive.
   - Introduction to today's episode focusing on event programming for club owners and scaling business strategies for manufacturers and service providers.

2. **Pickleball Brief Business Summit**
   - Announcement of an upcoming virtual B2B event scheduled for October 17th and 18th.
   - Features over 13 expert presenters addressing common challenges in the pickleball business landscape.
   - Registration details: [summit.pickleballbrief.com](http://summit.pickleballbrief.com).

3. **Event Recap & Industry Insights**
   - Robert Allen shares experiences from attending PickleCon in Kansas City along with team member Erica.
     * Positive aspects: Central location, experienced production team, good exhibitor turnout, integration with NMP event.
     * Areas for improvement: Enhancing experiential elements beyond traditional trade show setups.

4. **Future of Event Marketing in Pickleball**
   - Discussion on evolving event formats to better engage attendees:
     * Importance of having a clear intent behind events – understanding what both organizers and participants aim to achieve.
     * Need for immersive experiences rather than just conventional booth setups.

5. **Challenges Facing Club Owners & Manufacturers**
    * Strategies for effective programming management within clubs as competition increases.
    * Importance of excellent execution in keeping members engaged amid growing market saturation.

6. **Experiential Marketing Tactics**
    * Leveraging human-to-human interactions even amidst technological advancements like AI bots which might lose novelty over time.
    * Emphasis on real conversations leading to meaningful business relationships.

7. **Entrepreneurial Journey & Honest Self-Evaluation**
    * Encouragement towards continuous learning from both successes and failures within entrepreneurial ventures.
    * Highlighting honesty about what's working or not working as crucial for growth.

8. **Closing Thoughts & Future Directions**
    * Reinforcement that entrepreneurship is challenging but necessary for driving innovation within the pickleball industry space 
      through strategic planning based off honest evaluations backed by data-driven decisions aimed at thriving not just surviving .

### Upcoming Events:
- Mentioned future plans including potential expansion into more ambitious events series under “Pickleball Brief”.

---

#### Call To Action:
Stay tuned! Mark your calendars now so you don't miss out!
Visit [pickleball brief dot com](http://pickleballbrief.com) for further updates!
Download a FREE copy of our latest Briefing [briefing dot pickleball dot com] (https://briefing.pickleballbrief.com)

---

In this episode of The Business of Pickleball, hosts David and Robert chat with Johnny, founder of OM Pickleball.

Johnny shares his journey into pickleball manufacturing and discusses the sport's rapid growth over the past five years. He explains how his hands-on experience, rather than traditional research, shaped his approach.

The conversation highlights OM Pickleball's innovative internal racket frame concept and their unique branding strategy that positions their product as a 'racket,' sparking debate in a saturated market.

Johnny also covers their high-end market focus, direct sales strategy, and partnerships with premium clubs. Tune in for key insights on product design, marketing, and community engagement in this insightful episode!

EPISODE SPONSOR: Pickle Pro Advisors > Pickle Pro Advisors

In this podcast episode, Pickleball Brief highlights Mark Kosiba, a successful business builder known for companies such as Skullcandy and Traeger Grills. The discussion focuses on manufacturing, market entry, scaling strategies, and insights for the pickleball industry. Mark specifically discusses product manufacturing challenges, particularly in China.

Key points include cash flow challenges, defining/understanding customer demographics, data-driven management, prioritization strategies, the value of in-person collaboration, strategic growth via prioritizing customer satisfaction, and the crucial role of quality differentiation in surviving competitive growth markets like the evolving pickleball industry.

ShowNotes for Episode: The Business of Pickleball with Guest Garrett Cypher.

Title: "Stepping Up the Game with Cypher Pickleball Shoes - Insights from Founder Garrett Cypher."

Welcome to another episode of "The Business of Pickleball podcast!

Robert, David Feldman, and guest Garrett Cypher. discuss Cypher Pickleball, a pickleball shoe company founded by Garrett during COVID. He launched the KEY211 shoe successfully after overcoming many challenges. Online marketing is crucial to reach their tech-savvy demographic. They prioritize product perfection before expanding distribution. Retail diversification is key for success,. The brand values authentic promotion over influencer marketing. Plans for new eyewear are in the works. Garrett looks forward to continued growth and success in the industry.

Visit Cypher Pickleball | Men's & Women's Pickleball Shoes for more information.

Join hosts Robert Allen and David Feldman as they delve into a conversation filled with entrepreneurial spirit, innovation in sportswear, and the rise of pickleball.

This week's special guest is none other than Garrett Cypher., founder of Cypher Pickleball – a brand making waves in the world of pickleball footwear.

Key Points Discussed:

1. Introduction to Garrett and his journey into starting Cypher Pickleball during COVID-19.
2. Inspiration behind creating durable pickleball shoes after personal experiences with inadequate footwear.
3. The challenges faced by new brands like trademarking issues and finding product-market fit.
4. An inside look at how social media marketing has been pivotal for reaching an older demographic that's increasingly becoming tech-savvy.
5. The potential shift in ambassador programs influenced by TikTok Shop’s frictionless platform for influencers.
6. Strategies on achieving ideal product-market fit before scaling up, including gathering customer feedback on their first batch release.
7. Importance of having a solid foundation based on quality products prior to expansion efforts such as retail partnerships or wholesale distribution.
8. Insights into partnering with experienced industrial design consultants through platforms like Upwork to ensure top-notch product development.

Noteworthy Quotes:

• “Older players are shopping online…as long as you have transparent returns, reviews that hit right, free shipping – they're receptive.” - Garrett
• “TikTok is changing the ambassador game…it allows anyone to sign up, sell products directly without any back-and-forth communication.” - Garrett
• “Before we scale…we want our shoe foundation secure; we’re relentlessly pursuing ideal product market fit." -Garrett

Join us as we explore how an internet-first approach coupled with targeted advertising can revolutionize go-to-market strategies for sports startups like Cypher.

Stay tuned until the end where our hosts discuss future plans for retail environments within private clubs and franchises—a must-hear segment for those looking to diversify revenue streams beyond just court fees!

Don't forget to subscribe and leave your thoughts about today's insights from the front lines of pickleball business innovation!

Show Notes for "The Business of Pickleball" Podcast Episode

Title: Plan, Launch, Build & Grow A Successful Pickleball Business - Financial Modeling as Your Compass - Navigating the Financial Landscape of Pickleball Clubs

In this episode, hosts Robert Allen and Dave Fu delve into the financial intricacies involved in running a successful pickleball club. Broadcasting from sunny Southern California and beautiful Idaho, they discuss their travels, meetings with industry professionals, franchise concepts, and the burgeoning community around pickleball.

Key Points Discussed:

• The importance of meticulous planning for new pickleball facilities
• A deep dive into a comprehensive financial model tailored specifically for pickleball clubs (PCFM)
• Insights on managing margins and ensuring profitability in the sport's business aspect
• Upcoming private beta release of the PCFM tool to select contributors

Special Highlights:

1. Pickle Ball Club Financial Model (PCFM): Dave shares his expertise as a former financial analyst in creating an extensive model that accounts for various factors crucial to running a club – from attrition rates to profit margins on retail offerings. This robust tool aims to aid potential investors by providing industry benchmarks but also allows customization based on individual assumptions.

2. Industry Observations: Despite its popularity, operating within thin margins is common among many clubs; precision and innovation are necessary for sustainability.

3. Subscription Value: Subscribing to their newsletter provides access not only to valuable insights but also supports ongoing research within the industry.

4. Future Content Focus: Expect discussions about hiring practices, marketing strategies across different facets of the industry (clubs, coaches, manufacturers), management tips for pro shops/retail outlets coming up over subsequent months.

5. Event Series Announcement: Towards year-end anticipates an exclusive buyer-seller event series focusing on high-value interactions rather than traditional conferences – further details pending release.

6. Realism vs Hype: Balancing optimism with realistic expectations derived from those already experiencing operational challenges is emphasized as key to success in this space.

7. Community Engagement Reminder: Listeners are encouraged to subscribe and stay tuned via social media updates where additional nuggets of wisdom will be shared regularly.

Closing Thoughts: Robert and Dave underscored that while there’s immense enthusiasm surrounding pickleball's growth prospects, grounding business decisions in solid data-driven models like PCFM could mean the difference between thriving or just surviving in this competitive arena.

For more information or resources mentioned: Subscribe at https://podopshost.com/pickleball Follow us on Social Media @pickleballbrief

Remember always: In Pickleball—as with any business—precision pays off!

Welcome to another episode of "The Business of Pickleball," where host Robert Allen delves into a topic that might seem mundane at first but proves crucial for any pickleball facility owner – specialty insurance. With David absent, Robert brings on two experts from the Pickle Ball Insurance Program, Dustin Decker and Cameron Lin, who share their insights and stories highlighting the importance of proper coverage.

Key Points Discussed:

1. Introduction to Guests:

   • Dustin Decker: Chief Sales Executive at Pickle Ball Insurance Program; shares his journey from family business to discovering pickleball.
   • Cameron Lin: CEO and Owner; talks about his entrepreneurial background, love for insurance, and how it's vital for businesses.

2. Importance of Specialty Insurance:

   • The necessity of understanding what your policy covers.
   • Common pitfalls in existing policies such as exclusion clauses (e.g., assault and battery).

3. Critical Coverage Areas:

   • Commercial General Liability Coverage
   • Property Coverage: Ensuring sufficient coverage beyond basic equipment costs.
   • Loss Of Income Coverage: Protecting against potential revenue losses during unforeseen closures.

4. Real-Life Case Study:

   • A Michigan club’s near-miss experience with underinsurance is highlighted by Dustin Decker.
   • How an $800 adjustment could potentially save nearly a million dollars in exposure.

5. Insurance Policy Features:

   • Simplicity in applications and claims processes.
   • Custom-fit policies tailored specifically to pickleball facilities' needs.

6. Entrepreneurial Advice: Cameron emphasizes the similarities between bowling centers and pickle ball clubs regarding risk management – both require specialized attention when insuring against various risks associated with competitive sports environments that include food & beverage services.

7. Value Propositions: The podcast guests stress providing simple yet comprehensive insurance solutions quickly ("Simple Fast Fit"), ensuring no business owner has to worry about being inadequately covered or facing financial ruin due to insufficient policies.

Tune in as our guests unpack these topics further while sharing anecdotes that underscore why skipping out on thorough insurance can be costly mistake no business owner should make!

Title: Exploring the Intersection of Pickleball Business and Technology with Dr. Gordon Jones

Summary: In this episode of "The Business of Pickleball," hosts Robert Allen and David Feldman sit down with tech guru and pickleball enthusiast, Gordon Jones. With a rich background in health administration and technology entrepreneurship, including ventures into blockchain and AI, Gordon brings his expertise to the rapidly growing world of pickleball.

Key Points Discussed:

• Introduction to guest Gordon Jones who shares his extensive experience in healthcare technology, entrepreneurship, blockchain, cryptocurrency education, and how he got involved in pickleball.

• The concept of creating digital identities for players that transcend different platforms within the sport.

• How AI can enhance relationships between clubs/facilities and their members by personalizing experiences based on individual preferences.

• The challenges club owners face when integrating various technological systems (e.g., court scheduling vs. point-of-sale) and how AI could streamline these processes.

• Details about Pickle Zone's vision - an ecosystem where players can find matches easily across any platform or location while managing schedules, scores seamlessly integrated with a rewards system using crypto tokens.

• The future potential for facilities to use advanced tech like facial recognition for personalized interaction without requiring mobile devices at all times.

Insights from Gordon:

1. Tech should serve as a bridge between facility operators (akin to doctors) and players (akin to patients), enhancing interactions rather than being a barrier.

2. Adoption across generations hinges on leveraging commonly used technologies such as mobile devices while also considering other forms of identification like digital identities.

3. A decentralized approach using blockchain ensures data integrity for player ratings/scores which instills trust within the community.

4. Gamification through reward tokens incentivizes play regardless of win/loss outcomes – already operational via NFTs representing token ownership set to integrate into ecosystems later on.

Final Thoughts: Technology is not just reshaping how we play sports but also revolutionizing management aspects behind-the-scenes at clubs/facilities. As pickleball continues its upward trajectory in popularity, embracing innovative solutions will be key for sustainable growth both locally at clubs as well as globally throughout the entire sport's infrastructure.

Call-to-action: To learn more about integrating cutting-edge tech into your own club or simply curious about joining the next wave of technologically enhanced sports communities? Stay tuned for further discussions on our monthly briefing dropping soon!

More on Dr. Gordon Jones...
- Website: Play Pickleball Earn Rewards | Picklezone
- LinkedIn: Dr. Gordon Jones | LinkedIn

### Show Notes for "The Business of Pickleball" Podcast Episode

**Episode Six**: Inside Baseball - The Roll of Private Equity In M&A Transactions - Pickleball League Deal Update

**Hosts:** Robert Allen & Dave Feldman

#### Introduction
- Hosts discuss the pre-show conversation being as rich as a podcast itself.
- They express gratitude to subscribers and encourage sharing the content.

#### The Launch Reflection
- Appreciation for early subscribers is reiterated.
- Emphasis on providing high value in content, with confidence that it will naturally lead to sharing due to its quality.

#### Content Philosophy
- Discussion about creating something they themselves would consume.
- Stressing the importance of foundational business principles, especially in an emerging industry like pickleball.

#### Audience Consideration
- Identifying their ideal customer profile: entrepreneurs, business owners, operators, management leaders, solo practitioners such as club professionals or marketing specialists within the niche market. 

#### Email Delivery Strategy Changes 
- Decision not to use Gmail or Yahoo addresses unless fully paid and whitelisted by users due to new algorithm changes posing risks of email jail/blacklisting across platforms.
  
#### Subscription Model Shift 
- Elimination of free subscription; moving towards a paid-only model at $349/year (or $39/month).
  
#### Market Solutions Insight 
- Real-world example from Robert's personal experience where local players created their own indoor playing solution during winter – highlighting how markets find solutions and emphasizing fair payment for services rendered. 

#### Value Proposition Clarification 
 - Confidence expressed in delivering actionable insights worth many times over the annual subscription fee.
 - Comparison made between hiring two experienced professionals versus subscribing to receive expert insights through Pickleball Brief.

### Conclusion:
Robert and Dave conclude by reaffirming their commitment to providing valuable information tailored specifically for individuals serious about growing their businesses within the pickleball industry. They invite listeners along for what promises to be an insightful journey into professionalizing and thriving in this sport's burgeoning market space.

**ShowNotes for Pickleball Brief Podcast Episode: The Business of Pickleball**

Welcome back to the "Pickleball Brief" podcast with your hosts, Robert and Dave Feldman. In this episode, they delve into the intricacies of running a quality newsletter and discuss their commitment to ensuring a seamless user experience. They also touch upon building a lasting organization that adds value to the pickleball industry.

Key Highlights:

1. **Newsletter Perfection**: Striving for accuracy and high quality in their content is paramount for Robert and Dave as they prepare for launch.
2. **Building A Team**: Establishing SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) is crucial as they aim to create an enduring entity within the pickleball community.
3. **Trusted Resource Development**: Positioning themselves as reliable advisors for both current business operators in pickleball and those considering entering or investing in the field.
4. **Upcoming Launch Anticipation**: With launch day fast approaching, there's excitement about providing solutions for common industry challenges through valuable content.

Dave shares insights on key topics covered:

- The significance of getting things right from the start.
- Ensuring readers have no disruptions while enjoying seamless navigation through various features like directories.

Additional Discussion Points:

- The growth trajectory of pickleball as an industry and sport - including how it affects facilities, equipment manufacturers, service companies, etc.
- Observations on how tennis players transitioning into pickleball are changing gameplay dynamics at events like Hyundai Masters—hinting at potential impacts on business strategies related to club culture integration and equipment evolution.

Deep Dive Article Teaser:
The first monthly briefing titled “What State Offers the Best Opportunity For New Pickle Ball Business” will be available soon—a must-read if you're contemplating starting or expanding your presence in the world of pickle ball businesses.

Remember:
This episode provides invaluable perspectives not just on maintaining excellence but also adapting strategically within an evolving sports industry landscape—crucial listening for anyone involved or interested in growing their venture within this exciting space!

Tune into this latest edition packed with thoughtful analysis perfect for entrepreneurs looking ahead toward future opportunities!

**ShowNotes for Pickleball Brief Podcast Episode: Emerging Distribution Models and International Expansion**

Welcome back to the Pickleball Brief podcast with your hosts, Robert and Dave Feldman. Dive into today's insightful discussion on the evolving landscape of pickleball equipment distribution, brand ambassadors' roles, and the complexities of international expansion.

Key Points Discussed:

1. **Distribution Strategies**
   - The shift towards using brand ambassadors and influencers with discount codes.
   - Challenges in maintaining brand integrity when representatives are not fully aligned with company values.
   - Potential pitfalls of a network marketing approach in controlling branding quality.

2. **The Ambassador Model**
   - Various experiences with local reps showcasing both successful strategies and detrimental practices.
   - The balance between expanding reach through ambassadors versus protecting brand reputation.

3. **Grassroots Movements vs Formal Distribution Channels**
    - How private member clubs may become natural distribution nodes for products.
    - Difficulties faced by club owners in establishing direct relationships with manufacturers.

4. **Industry Evolution & Database Development**
    - Introduction of an industry database as a valuable resource connecting manufacturers, distributors, franchises, service providers, etc.
    - Upcoming newsletter launch aimed at providing comprehensive insights into the pickleball industry (scheduled for January 15th).

5. **Internationalization ... What's Up With That?**
    - Debate over whether it’s too soon to push international growth given domestic challenges within leagues and associations.
    – Considerations regarding cultural differences, legal implications, taxation issues associated with global expansion.

6. **Podcast Availability & Listener Engagement**
     – Announcement that the podcast is now accessible across various platforms including Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify; encouraging listeners to subscribe and provide feedback where available.

7. **Closing Thoughts & Future Episodes Preview**

As always Robert and Dave encourage listener engagement by subscribing to their channels or leaving positive reviews if you enjoy their content!

Remember to mark your calendars for January 15th when Pickleball Brief releases its first monthly briefing packed full of essential updates from around the pickleball world!

**ShowNotes for Pickleball Brief Podcast: Episode "Navigating Pre-Launch and Industry Insights"**

Welcome to another engaging episode of the Pickleball Brief podcast with your hosts Robert Allen and Dave Feldman. This week, they dive deep into their journey towards the launch of a unique trade-focused newsletter, discuss industry dynamics, and share valuable insights on email deliverability.

- **Introduction**
  - Greetings from Robert Allen and Dave Feldman.
  - The holiday season lull between Christmas and New Year's sets the scene.

- **Pickleball Enthusiasm**
  - Discussion on how people indulge in pickleball during this time.
  - Anticipation for playing more pickleball in the new year.

- **Weather Challenges & Indoor Play**
  - Addressing weather-related hurdles that affect outdoor play.
  - Highlighting indoor venues offering respite from cold climates.

- **Pre-Launch Experience: Digital Twists & Turns**
  - The challenges faced while setting up an email newsletter platform.
  - Decision against using Substack due to revenue-sharing concerns.
  
- **Platform Selection Journey**
   - Transition through multiple platforms like WordPress, Ghost, Substack, finally settling on Beehiive for its user experience despite some limitations.
   
- **Email Deliverability Concerns**
   – Upcoming changes by Google & Yahoo will impact inbox deliverability starting February. 
   – Importance of subscribers white-listing emails to ensure delivery.
   – YouTube video mentioned on the topic deliverability clamp downs. Link: https://youtu.be/EcVu8dD0phQ?si=0bnW8HB034--3QoL

- **Trade vs Consumer Focus in Content Creation**
   – Emphasizing their content is not consumer-oriented but tailored specifically for trade professionals within the pickleball industry. 
   
- **Business Models & Distribution Dynamics Within Pickleball Industry**
    – Exploring traditional distribution models versus current practices amidst internet disruption. 
    – Identifying manufacturers as primary producers with clubs serving as key distribution points alongside service providers.

**Exclusive Trade-Focused Approach**: Reiterating that Pickleball Brief is a resource exclusively crafted for business owners within the industry offering high-level analysis akin to having an analyst or executive summary at one’s disposal. 

**Unique Selling Proposition (USP) of Newsletter**: Asserting no other publication matches their level of dedication or offers similar resources specific to trade professionals in pickleball; promising partnerships yielding unparalleled insights not found elsewhere are teased. 

**Why Subscribe?**: A walkthrough explaining why interested parties should take time filling out detailed surveys upon signing up — it ensures quality control by catering solely to relevant audiences within the trade sector which keeps reader engagement potent and focused.

Stay tuned! Get ready for insightful editions every two weeks packed with invaluable data-driven guidance aimed at grounding you amid this chaotic yet burgeoning market space!

Remember: If you're serious about scaling your business or staying updated with actionable industry news—subscribe now!

### ShowNotes for The Pickleball Brief Podcast

**Episode Title:** The Landscape of Pickleball Business and Industry Insights

**Hosts:** Robert Allen & Dave Feldman

**Summary:**
In this episode, Robert and Dave dive deep into the world of pickleball business. They discuss the mission behind their digital newsletter, Pickleball Brief, which aims to provide industry professionals with data-driven insights to gain a competitive edge in the rapidly growing sport. From analyzing market opportunities to highlighting pitfalls at the professional level, they offer a comprehensive look at what it takes to thrive in this niche.

---

**Key Points Discussed:**

1. **Pickleball Industry Explosion:** 
   - The hosts talk about how pickleball is experiencing rapid growth but also facing challenges as new businesses scramble for market share in what's described as a "land grab."

2. **Business Strategy Advice:**
   - Emphasis on learning from other industries' history to avoid repeating mistakes.
   - Importance of having resources like Pickleball Brief that can help make informed decisions without losing first-mover advantage.

3. **Professional Level Chaos:**
   - A candid discussion on recent controversies surrounding player contracts and league management.
   - Lessons learned from other sports leagues are highlighted as cautionary tales for pickleball leadership.

4. **Data-Driven Decisions:**
   - Upcoming article teased that will present never-before-seen data regarding court radius reach and its implications for marketing strategies.
   
5. **Content Philosophy:**
    - Commitment to providing straightforward, actionable content devoid of fluff or unnecessary complexity.
    
6. **Community Engagement:** 
    - Encouragement for feedback from readership on issues faced within the industry so that solutions can be tailored accordingly.

7. **Observations on Leadership & Accountability:**
    - Critique of poor decision-making by some organizations within pickle ball and calling out greed affecting players negatively.

8. **Future Predictions & Opportunities:** 
    - Speculation about whether current turmoil might allow a third entity to emerge as an industry leader due to lost credibility among existing organizations.

9.  **Website & Newsletter Design Goals:**  
     – Overview of efforts being made towards creating an accessible website design with clear communication reflecting their value proposition.

10.  **Merchandise Mention**:  
      – Highlighting apparel supporting pickle ball community growth (e.g., "Build More Courts" hat).
     -- https://bangerpickle.com/collections/catalog/products/court-hat

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**Call-to-action:**

Listeners are encouraged to visit [picklebalbrief.com](http://picklebalbrief.com) where they can sign up for updates and ensure they don't miss out on valuable insights when launching formally occurs soon.

### Final Thoughts:

Robert Allen and Dave Feldman bring years of combined experience in strategic business development into play while discussing how those involved with pickle ball—from entrepreneurs building facilities to professional players—can navigate through exciting yet tumultuous times by making use of carefully curated information provided via their platform, Pickle Ball Brief.

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[End ShowNotes]

# ShowNotes for "The Pickleball Brief: A Business-Focused Newsletter"

**Episode Overview:**  
Join us as we delve into the genesis and mission of 'Pickleball Brief,' a succinct, value-driven newsletter designed exclusively for business owners and professionals in the burgeoning pickleball industry. Discover how this resource cuts through the fluff to deliver actionable insights that can transform your pickleball-related business.

**What You'll Learn:**

- The concept behind 'Pickleball Brief' and its commitment to brevity without compromising on content quality.
- How 'Pickleball Brief' differentiates itself by focusing solely on B2B content within the pickleball space.
- Insights into the types of topics covered - from administration, operations, sales, marketing, logistics, manufacturing to distribution within the pickleball industry.
- The international growth of pickleball and opportunities for entrepreneurs globally.

**Key Takeaways:**

1. **Target Audience:** Primarily aimed at business owners operating clubs, organizing tournaments or coaching within the industry who seek valuable information tailored for success in their enterprises.

2. **Content Focus:** Exclusively B2B-oriented with practical advice on various facets like hiring practices or marketing strategies specific to growing a brand or starting a club in pickle ball.

3. **Delivery & Format:** Digital newsletter format offering concentrated information that readers can quickly digest and apply directly to their businesses.

4. **Networking Opportunities:** Plans include creating an online community where like-minded individuals can connect over shared interests in advancing their businesses within this niche market.

5. **International Interest & Expansion**: Acknowledging that while focused primarily on U.S., there is significant potential abroad as evidenced by conversations with passionate players overseas looking to expand local infrastructure for pickle ball

6. **Subscription Model**: Introduction of a freemium model featuring a 7-day free trial followed by monthly/annual subscription options along with sponsorship opportunities detailed via an upcoming sponsorship page and media kit.

7. **Value Proposition**: Emphasizing incredible value offered relative to cost – providing expertise that might otherwise require extensive consultancy fees at just a fraction of such expenses.

Stay tuned as we continue our conversation about what makes 'Pickle Ball Brief' not only unique but indispensable for anyone serious about making waves in this rapidly expanding sport's commercial landscape!

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For more insightful discussions on transforming your passion into profit within one of America’s fastest-growing sports industries subscribe now! Don't miss out – be ahead of every serve with Pickleball Brief.