National Pickleball Day: How The Dink Built a Brand from Scratch

Thomas Shields on turning a niche sport into a media company people love.

Have you ever thought about what it takes to start a business? We’re here, along with Thomas Shields, founder of The Dink, a media company focused on pickleball, to let you know that it’s more than just having a great idea. It’s what happens after the idea takes off!

This week on Call Your Publicist, we spoke with Thomas about the rise of pickleball (it’s not just for the older generation!), the rollercoaster of entrepreneurship, and the power of building a brand that people truly love.

Thomas gave us the lowdown on what it’s really like turning an idea into a sustainable business, along with the highs and the lows of being a founder and solopreneur.  There are those days of euphoria when everything clicks, and then there are days when doubt creeps in and quitting feels easier than pushing forward.

Our conversation is raw and personal, but it’s one that anyone dreaming of launching something of their own needs to hear. It’s a reminder that fear, failure, and even embarrassment are all part of the process. The key is to keep going - learning from every step, surrounding yourself with good people, and leaning on them for guidance and support.

Because at the end of the day, showing the human side of your brand isn't just a strategy, it's the foundation of true brand loyalty and affinity.

You’ve Got a Tip on Line One ☎️ 

Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

Follow Us:
IG: @CallYourPublicistPodcast

New episodes drop every Monday — consider this your weekly reminder to… Call Your Publicist.

Want to Be a Guest on Call Your Publicist?

Have a story worth telling, a media moment to unpack, or a brand journey others could learn from?

We’d love to hear from you! Reach out to us at [email protected]