How Pickleball Lit Up a Healthcare Conference

Hey friends,
Happy Saturday. Hope your week had some purpose, some wins, and at least a few stretches of stillness in the chaos.

This past week took me to D.C. for a GPO Healthcare Conference — a productive trip filled with meetings, connections… and a surprise pickleball tournament.

That’s right — midweek, I found myself lacing up and going to battle with a crew of healthcare folks who packed their own paddles. That’s when you know it’s real.

The best part? My partner was an Absolute Legend. His strategy? “You serve, then I’m getting out of the way. Let’s win this thing.” 😂

We had a blast — and ended up taking home the title for our company.

But more than the win, what struck me most was how people’s faces lit up around the pickleball court. Like, noticeably more than when they were at their booths repping their brands.

That contrast stuck with me.

It reminded me why this sport is so special — especially right now, when so many people are carrying stress, battling quiet storms, or walking through heaviness they don’t always talk about.

Pickleball brings light into dark places. It gets people moving, builds community, and sparks joy. That matters.

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Fast-forward to yesterday — I was back on the court, this time in a padel tournament. My partner and I lost a tight one, 10–7 in the third set super breaker.

The other team just had more padel reps, plain and simple.

And honestly? I walked away more motivated than ever to train and improve. I’ve got a long-term vision for this sport. I want to compete in elite tournaments. I’d love to play pro-level padel one day — and I’m not afraid to say it.

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Now this next stretch?
#DadModeActivated

I’m entering full-on dad mode and looking forward to some much-needed quality time with my daughter over the next couple weeks. We’ve got memories to make, laughs to share, and probably a few bedtime stories to retell for the 300th time. 🥹

Being her dad keeps me grounded, focused, and full of joy.

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Before I sign off, a few questions for you — the kind that have been on my heart lately:

• How are you protecting your inner peace?

• Where are you aiming for outer excellence?

• Are you slowing down enough to listen?

• Are you feeding your faith life — even just a little?

Talk soon,
Bryant
Staying rooted in the mission: inner peace + outer excellence.