The Planet Paintball Podcast

Hunter Patterson

The Planet Paintball Podcast takes you deep into the world of paintball, connecting players and enthusiasts from around the globe. Each episode features interviews with paintball field owners and divisional players, sharing their stories, strategies, and perspectives. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a weekend warrior, this podcast brings the global paintball community closer together, one episode at a time.

  1. Nate - Rag Tag Army Ep.135

    18h ago

    Nate - Rag Tag Army Ep.135

    Planet Paintball Podcast – Episode 135 | Nate from Rag Tag Army In Episode 135 of the Planet Paintball Podcast, Hunter Patterson sits down with Nate from Rag Tag Army to discuss his journey through competitive paintball, from his first experience playing in 2010 to competing at the national level. Nate shares the story of how he developed as a player, the growth of Rag Tag Army, and the lessons learned from years of tournament competition. The conversation dives into team leadership, practice routines, accountability, travel, and what it takes to build a successful paintball program. The episode also explores the importance of community, player development, and balancing the demands of work, life, and competitive paintball while continuing to pursue ambitious goals within the sport. Nate's introduction to paintball and competitive play The formation and growth of Rag Tag Army Team leadership and organizational structure Training routines and offseason preparation Tournament strategy and game-day execution Accountability and team culture Learning from setbacks and competitive challenges Social media, YouTube, and growing the paintball community Gear preferences and customization Future goals for Rag Tag Army 00:00 – Introduction to Paintball Journey05:24 – Return to Paintball and Team Dynamics10:51 – Exploring Other Sports and Returning to Paintball13:26 – Joining Rag Tag Army and Team Growth15:59 – YouTube Ventures and Community Engagement18:34 – National Competitions and League Choices21:34 – Experiences with Pro Teams and Future Aspirations22:46 – Choosing Team Loyalty Over Pro Opportunities23:43 – Goals and Aspirations of Rag Tag Army24:21 – Event Participation and Team Dynamics25:19 – Lessons from Competition and Accountability26:49 – Navigating Personal Setbacks and Growth26:58 – Transitioning to D2 and Team Structure29:03 – Offseason Training and Preparation32:16 – Skill Development and National Attention34:00 – Traveling for Competitions and Opportunities35:25 – Expectations for the D2 Season36:44 – Winning Strategies and Team Dynamics39:28 – Learning from Defeats and Future Challenges41:47 – Sparring Partners and Practice Dynamics45:51 – Unique Team Jerseys and Their Inspirations47:12 – The Fun Side of Paintball49:45 – Team Dynamics and Coaching54:19 – Player Roster Insights01:00:53 – The Role of Support Staff01:01:40 – Memorable Paintball Experiences01:03:30 – Paintball Gear and Superstitions01:06:25 – Thoughts on the Evolution of Paintball01:08:16 – Sponsors, Acknowledgments, and Closing Thoughts Whether you're a player looking to improve, a team leader building a program, or simply a fan of competitive paintball, this episode offers valuable insight into the dedication, teamwork, and mindset required to succeed in the sport. #PlanetPaintball #Episode135 #RagTagArmy #Nate #PaintballPodcast #CompetitivePaintball #TournamentPaintball Topics CoveredTimestamps

    1h 10m
  2. Blake-BC Riot Ep .134

    6d ago

    Blake-BC Riot Ep .134

    Planet Paintball Podcast – Episode 134 | Blake Baumeister In Episode 134 of the Planet Paintball Podcast, Hunter Patterson sits down with Blake Baumeister to discuss his journey from backyard paintball games to competing on the national stage. Blake shares insights into team development, competitive growth, practice strategies, and the mindset required to succeed in tournament paintball. The conversation covers everything from rebuilding teams and adapting to roster changes to improving decision-making under pressure and preparing for higher levels of competition. Whether you're a new player looking to improve or a seasoned competitor seeking an edge, Blake offers valuable lessons from his years in the sport. Blake's introduction to paintball and early playing experiences Transitioning from local competition to national events The rise and evolution of teams like Free Parking, Lone Wolf PB, and BC Riot Team rebuilding and managing roster changes Decision-making and adapting to faster competition Zone control and pressure-based practice drills Mental toughness and overcoming tournament adversity Building team chemistry and maintaining morale Playing multiple formats to improve overall skills Equipment preferences and favorite markers Preparing for the upcoming season and future goals 00:00 – Introduction to Blake Baumeister and His Paintball Journey02:00 – Early Experiences and Competitive Beginnings04:00 – Free Parking, Lone Wolf PB, and Early Teams06:00 – The Evolution of BC Riot08:00 – Team Rebuilding and Roster Changes10:00 – Differences Between Divisions and Higher-Level Play12:00 – Adjusting to Faster Competition14:00 – Practice Strategies and Zone Control Drills16:00 – Mental Toughness During Major Events18:00 – Handling Playtime Disparities and Team Dynamics20:00 – Benefits of Playing Multiple Formats22:00 – Improving Through Focused Drills24:00 – Gear Preferences and Dream Setups26:00 – Common Mistakes and Faster Decision-Making28:00 – Making the Jump from Local to National Competition30:00 – Looking Ahead to the Upcoming Season32:00 – Closing Thoughts and Future Goals Subscribe to the Planet Paintball Podcast for more conversations with players, coaches, field owners, and industry leaders from across the paintball world. #PlanetPaintball #Episode134 #BlakeBaumeister #PaintballPodcast #TournamentPaintball #CompetitivePaintball #PaintballCommunity

    59 min
  3. Logan - Local Nobody PANTBALL CO. Ep. 133

    Jun 12

    Logan - Local Nobody PANTBALL CO. Ep. 133

    Planet Paintball Podcast – Episode 133 featuring Local Nobody In this episode, Hunter Patterson sits down with Local Nobody, the creator behind a growing line of innovative 3D-printed paintball accessories and organizational tools. From custom gun stands and pod fillers to wall-mounted storage systems and trigger fidgets, Local Nobody discusses how a passion for paintball, technology, and creativity evolved into designing practical products for players of all levels. The conversation explores the design process, product development, community feedback, and the role of innovation in improving the paintball experience. Topics covered in this episode: How Local Nobody got started in paintball and 3D printing The evolution of the Local Nobody brand Designing custom paintball accessories and gear Product development from concept to production Gun stands, pod fillers, trigger fidgets, and storage solutions The versatile Pex Board organization system Working with teams and incorporating customer feedback Challenges and opportunities in creating paintball products The importance of community and keeping paintball fun Future projects and plans for Local Nobody Paintball Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction to Local Nobody and His Paintball Journey02:46 – The Evolution of the Local Nobody Brand05:23 – 3D Printing and the Creative Process08:09 – Product Development: Pod Filler and Gun Stand10:34 – Customization and Community Feedback13:14 – Paintball Gear Innovations and Challenges16:16 – Weather Challenges and Paintball Events24:50 – Designing Custom Paintball Gear32:35 – Innovative Packaging and Shipping Solutions43:14 – The Versatile Pex Board System44:14 – Innovative Fidget Designs49:47 – Product Development Journey54:01 – Custom Creations and Team Collaborations58:10 – Passion for Paintball and Family Bonding01:04:27 – Ego in Sports and Community Engagement Whether you're interested in paintball gear, product design, 3D printing, or the creative side of the sport, this episode provides a unique look at how innovation continues to shape the paintball community. #PlanetPaintball #PaintballPodcast #LocalNobody #PaintballGear #3DPrinting #PaintballCommunity #CustomGear #PaintballInnovation

    1h 7m
  4. Cameron "Noodle" Pawley Ep. 132

    Jun 9

    Cameron "Noodle" Pawley Ep. 132

    Navigating Life Beyond Paintball: Insights from Cameron Pawley Embracing Change and Growing the Sport: A Deep Dive with Cameron PawleyIn this episode, Cameron Pawley and Hunter discuss the evolving landscape of paintball, personal growth, and the importance of human connection. They explore how industry shifts, marketing strategies, and personal decisions shape both players and the future of the sport.Key Topics: Cameron's decision to step away from competitive paintball and focus on personal growthThe influence of family, especially the impact of Cameron’s father on his paintball journeyHow the sport's marketing, sponsorships, and media coverage can be improvedThe potential for stadium-based paintball events to elevate the sport's profileThe importance of valuing players as human beings, not just athletesThe role of community, story-telling, and drama in engaging viewers and sponsorsSuggestions for developing talent: drafts, combines, and regional qualifiersThe future of paintball leagues, with discussions on league structure and growth strategiesThe significance of change as an inevitable part of life and sportTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction and episode overview02:02 - Cameron’s hiatus and reasoning behind stepping back04:22 - Balancing personal life, career, and paintball06:22 - The importance of valuing every day and setting new goals08:36 - Managing mental and emotional health within the sport10:22 - The significance of family, grief, and legacy in paintball12:14 - Transitioning into golf and exploring new challenges14:39 - The evolution of talent recognition and opportunities in paintball16:47 - Success stories of semi-pro teams moving to pro level19:28 - League structure, team support, and the state of the professional scene21:26 - Growing the sport through media, production, and storytelling23:58 - The potential of stadium-based events and TV-style coverage27:33 - Incorporating sponsorships into event production for broader exposure32:17 - Marketing, commercializing, and attracting mainstream brands37:17 - The idea of blind layout tournaments for higher stakes and excitement40:20 - The importance of player recognition, storytelling, and drama45:38 - Exploring regional leagues, talent development, and combines50:41 - The impact of economy and external factors on paintball’s growth58:55 - The need for a human-first approach, mental health, and community value66:28 - Embracing change and the importance of self-awareness in life and sport71:27 - Closing thoughts, shout outs, and future

    1h 7m
  5. Tony Tran - Rice and Beans / Absolute Chaos Ep. 131

    Jun 2

    Tony Tran - Rice and Beans / Absolute Chaos Ep. 131

    Tony Tran joins Hunter Patterson on the Planet Paintball Podcast for a deep dive into one of the most unique and memorable journeys in competitive paintball. From the early days of local tournaments and creating the legendary Trandanas to competing with top teams and sharing stories from some of the biggest events in the sport, Tony brings decades of experience and insight to the conversation. This episode covers paintball history, team dynamics, equipment evolution, memorable wins, and Tony’s perspective on where competitive paintball is headed next. Whether you’ve been around the game for years or are just getting started, there’s a lot to take away from this one. Topics covered in this episode: • Tony’s introduction to paintball and how it all started• The story behind Trandanas• Early tournament experiences and standout moments• Team growth through different eras of competition• The Dark Carnival, Collision, and Crusaders years• Transitioning into D1 competition• Team chemistry and leadership• Paintball gear and favorite setups• The growth of Southeast paintball• Ideas for tournament formats and the future of the sport Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to the Planet Paintball Podcast01:08 – The Birth of Trandanas03:16 – Tony Tran’s Journey into Paintball04:42 – First Tournament Experiences08:55 – The Evolution of Teams and Coaching15:07 – The Dark Carnival Era17:49 – Transitioning to Collision21:11 – The Crusaders and Absolute Chaos22:49 – Unstoppable Season Highlights28:54 – The Transition to D133:51 – Lessons from the D1 Experience38:13 – Current Teams and Future Aspirations44:12 – Paintball Memories and Team Spirit46:22 – Favorite Paintball Moments48:21 – The Importance of Team Dynamics49:52 – Gear Talk: The Perfect Gun51:31 – Nostalgic Guns: The Ones That Got Away54:17 – Reshaping Competitive Paintball58:20 – The Future of Paintball Leagues Follow Planet Paintball for more interviews, event coverage, and conversations from across the paintball world. #PlanetPaintball #TonyTran #PaintballPodcast #TournamentPaintball #CompetitivePaintball #SoutheastPaintball

    1h 6m
  6. Cody Szmik - Brimstone Smoke EP. 130

    May 27

    Cody Szmik - Brimstone Smoke EP. 130

    Planet Paintball Podcast – Episode 130Featuring Cody In Episode 130, Hunter Patterson sits down with Cody to talk through his extensive journey in paintball—from the early days of learning the game to competing with top teams and staying involved in the sport through every stage of his career. Cody shares valuable perspective on how paintball has evolved over the years, how equipment changes have influenced the game, and why consistency, awareness, and community continue to matter at every level of competition. This episode offers a strong look at the history of the sport while also exploring where paintball is headed next. Topics Covered: • Cody’s introduction to paintball and early experiences• Career milestones and progression through competitive paintball• The impact of field awareness and game IQ• The evolution of paintball equipment and how it changed gameplay• Time spent with teams like Tippmann Effect, Vicious, Dynasty, and Diesel• The role of consistent practice and repetition• Returning to the game after time away• How relocation influenced opportunities in paintball• Health challenges and staying involved in competition• Becoming the voice of NGXL• Teams to watch and the future of the game• The importance of mentorship and giving back to the community Key Takeaways: • Game awareness is more important than ever• Practice consistency separates good teams from great teams• Equipment changes continue to shape strategy and pace• Youth can be a major advantage in today’s game• Persistence and commitment are key to long-term success• Community and mentorship continue to grow the sport Sound Bites: “Game awareness is more important than ever”“Youth is an advantage in the sport”“Persistence is key to becoming a top team” Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to the Podcast and Guest02:21 – The Evolution of Paintball and Field Awareness03:43 – Personal Journey in Paintball03:51 – Career Milestones and Team Experiences04:13 – Introduction and Technical Setup04:19 – Exploring the Main Topic04:21 – The Tryout Journey Begins06:54 – From Tippmann Effect to Vicious09:38 – The Transition to Pro Teams12:22 – Life on Dynasty14:53 – The Rise of Diesel17:38 – Memorable Moments in Paintball20:03 – Reflections on Early Career23:17 – The Importance of Practice in Paintball24:36 – Returning to the Game After a Long Break26:44 – Relocation and Its Impact on Paintball28:27 – The Journey Back to Competitive Play31:14 – Health Challenges and Their Influence on Play35:23 – Becoming the Voice of NGXL39:37 – Teams to Watch in NGXL Episode 130 is available now. #PlanetPaintball #Episode130 #PaintballPodcast #Cody #ProPaintball #NGXL #PaintballHistory

    50 min
  7. Zach Ponitz - DLX and Shocker Ep. 129

    May 20

    Zach Ponitz - DLX and Shocker Ep. 129

    Planet Paintball Podcast – Episode 129Featuring Zach Ponitz In Episode 129, Hunter Patterson sits down with Zach Ponitz to discuss his journey from getting into paintball at 15 years old to becoming a respected head tech and industry expert. The conversation dives into paintball gear maintenance, the local Pittsburgh paintball scene, tournament play, and what it takes to build a career in the industry. This episode provides valuable insight for players, aspiring techs, and anyone interested in the technical side of paintball. Topics Covered: • Zach’s introduction to paintball and competitive play• Transitioning from recreational to tournament paintball• Becoming a head tech and working in manufacturing• Common paintball gun issues and maintenance tips• The importance of cleaning and lubrication• Insights into sponsorships and tournament leagues• The Pittsburgh paintball community and its history• Upcoming events and goals within the sport Key Takeaways: • Regular maintenance extends the life of your marker• Hands-on experience is essential for becoming a tech• Local paintball communities are filled with talent and opportunity• Networking and dedication can open doors in the industry Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to Paintball and Zach’s Role02:33 – Zach’s Journey into Paintball05:14 – The Evolution of Zach’s Career07:58 – Transitioning from Recreational to Competitive Play10:02 – Technical Insights and Common Issues11:02 – The Importance of Maintenance13:29 – Upcoming Events and Personal Goals18:08 – Introduction and Technical Difficulties20:25 – Pittsburgh Mercenaries and Team Dynamics22:14 – NR Series and Upcoming Events01:04:25 – Exploring the Factory Atmosphere01:05:36 – Closing Thoughts and Thanks Episode 129 is available now. #PlanetPaintball #Episode129 #PaintballPodcast #ZachPonitz #PaintballTech #TournamentPaintball

    1h 6m

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

The Planet Paintball Podcast takes you deep into the world of paintball, connecting players and enthusiasts from around the globe. Each episode features interviews with paintball field owners and divisional players, sharing their stories, strategies, and perspectives. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a weekend warrior, this podcast brings the global paintball community closer together, one episode at a time.

You Might Also Like