Chris Lasoya: The Tony Hawk of Paintball ~ His Path to Recovery- 90's Rave Promoter to Booking Agent

Chris Lasoya: The Tony Hawk of Paintball ~ His Path to Recovery- 90's Rave Promoter to Booking Agent

In this episode of *This Pink Cloud*, DJ Kelly Reverb welcomes Chris Lasoya, a distinguished figure in the paintball community, often hailed as the 'Tony Hawk of Paintball.' Chris shares his fascinating journey through the vibrant rave culture of the 90s, his role as a festival promoter, and his ascent to fame within the paintball industry. Chris recounts his dual life, balancing his passion for paintball with his career in event management.

He reminisces about his early days of organizing events, funded by his paintball earnings, and the misconceptions people had about his lifestyle. Despite his success, Chris faced significant challenges, particularly with his health. He opens up about the physical injuries that forced him to reassess his life choices, leading him to sobriety in order to focus on his well-being and prepare for essential surgeries.

The conversation delves into the complexities of maintaining sobriety while being entrenched in nightlife and festival environments. Chris candidly discusses the pressures of the industry, including the need to manage large teams and the stress associated with running events. These experiences taught him the importance of stepping back and prioritizing health over business commitments. Additionally, Chris voices concerns about the current fentanyl crisis, reflecting on the tragic loss of friends to substance misuse.

He emphasizes the necessity for awareness and the availability of fentanyl test strips to prevent accidental overdoses. This episode is a testament to Chris Lasoya's resilience and determination to overcome personal hurdles while continuing to thrive in his professional endeavors. His story is a powerful reminder of the importance of mental health and recovery in achieving long-term success.