The Sam Portland Podcast

This off-season, many rugby players make common errors in their preparation. This video addresses why typical off-season programs fail, often relying on general fitness instead of targeted rugby speed and speed and power development. We break down the critical mistakes and offer solutions to help you run faster where it counts, ensuring effective rugby strength training and conditioning for the upcoming season.Most players think they are working hard in the off-season…But they come back the same speed, same power, same player.0:00 Why most rugby off-seasons fail0:35 Mistake 1: Training to “get fit”1:50 Why fatigue kills speed and power2:20 Mistake 2: Not sprinting enough3:25 Why sprint training prevents injuries4:05 Mistake 3: Getting strong without getting faster5:15 Why strength does not transfer to speed6:00 Mistake 4: Skipping power and elastic work7:05 Why athletes break down after the gym7:40 Mistake 5: The wrong type of conditioning8:50 How to build rugby-specific fitness9:35 Mistake 6: No change of direction or contact10:40 Why players get injured returning to training11:15 Mistake 7: Random training with no system12:05 Why structure creates results12:40 The real goal of the off-seasonIn this video you will learn:• The biggest rugby off-season training mistakes• How to improve speed training for rugby• Why sprint training should be year-round• How to build power and avoid injuries• How to structure your off-season properlyIf you want to run faster, get more powerful and actually improve next season, you need to train for speed — not just fatigue.⸻🔗 Links👉 Full Rugby Off-Season Program (App Access)https://sbs.programs.app/Field Speed Toolkithttps://speedbysportland.com/tool-kit?video=HM95Gnh4J2wThe Sports Speed System Bookhttps://www.speedbysportland.com/sportsspeedsystembook?video=HM95Gnh4J2wMain Websitehttps://www.speedbysportland.com

Coaching business success starts when you stop selling sessions and start selling outcomes. In this video, I break down why selling sessions keeps coaches underpaid, how to build a coaching business, and how to create structured offers that scale beyond time for money.Most coaches are stuck because they charge per session instead of building a system.0:00 Why selling sessions keeps coaches stuck0:42 The £100K coaching reality check1:52 The time for money trap explained3:15 Why session packs destroy cash flow4:28 Sell outcomes vs sell sessions5:32 The biggest coaching business mistake6:40 The 5 problems with selling sessions9:05 Why you cannot scale session-based coaching10:42 The shift from job to business11:45 How to restructure your current clients13:18 Small group training for leverage14:48 Why you need monthly retainers16:05 Hybrid coaching model explained17:30 Online coaching structure basics18:20 How to build a £100K coaching business19:25 Outcome-based rehab offers20:45 Building your coaching ecosystem22:10 From technician to business architectIn this video you will learn:• Why selling sessions keeps coaches underpaid• How to build a coaching business instead of a job• How to structure monthly retainers and offers• How to scale without adding more hours• How to move towards £100K as a coachIf you want a real coaching career, you need structure, leverage, and positioning — not more sessions.🔗 Links 👉 Download the FREE S&C Business Build Blueprinthttps://sportlandconsulting.acr.fit/the-sc-business-blueprint?video=yGherAlVTio

Coaching business architecture starts by fixing the mistake that keeps great coaches underpaid. In this video, I break down coaching business, coach education, and career structure so coaches can stop selling time, build better offers, and create a real career instead of just another job.Most coaches are not underpaid because they are bad at coaching.They are underpaid because they built a job instead of a business structure that gives them leverage.0:00 Why most coaches stay underpaid1:08 My coaching story and the broken model2:41 The lie coaches get sold in pro sport4:25 The time for money trap6:44 Why universities do not teach this8:31 The four real business problems coaches have10:05 Why you do not need more clients11:28 Sell solutions, not sessions12:31 Move clients to monthly retainers13:12 Use small groups to increase leverage14:18 Why every coach needs an email list15:22 How to build authority and stability16:32 Why earning more is not selling out17:39 The harsh lesson every fired coach learns18:33 What this channel is really aboutIn this video you will learn:• Why good coaches still stay underpaid• Why selling sessions keeps coaches stuck• How to build structure, positioning and leverage• Why monthly retainers beat pay per session• How to start turning coaching into a careerDownload the S&C Business Blueprint now: https://sportlandconsulting.acr.fit/the-sc-business-blueprint-opt-in

Coach education for strength and conditioning coaches starts with better questions, better motor learning, and better transfer of training. In this podcast, Jeff Moyer and I break down play, neurology, athletic development, and why modern S&C often takes itself too seriously.This is a coach-to-coach conversation on: • Why play still matters in high-performance sport • What most strength coaches misunderstand about transfer • The legacy of Dr. Michael Yessis and Soviet sports science • How motor learning, reflexes and development shape movement • Why strength is an expression, not one thing • How to think better about athlete development, not just programmingIf you work in rugby, football, American football, or athlete development, this episode will challenge how you think about coaching.0:00 The Sports Speed Universe, humour and taking S&C too seriously4:07 Thanksgiving, football and cooking talk11:12 Jeff’s biomechanics course and teaching live16:04 Why coaches need history, not just social media20:16 Michael Yessis, Soviet training and forgotten influences27:49 General strength, transfer and team sport performance33:12 Private coaching, football schedules and doing no harm40:33 Strength as an expression, not one thing44:35 Neurology, development and movement learning52:11 Primitive reflexes, threat response and sprinting59:36 Play, variability and solving movement problems1:08:08 Why athletes can look great and still not transfer1:14:48 How Jeff uses play and roughhousing in training1:22:27 What coaches miss about long-term athletic development1:29:30 What Jeff would change in team sport preparation1:36:52 Education, complexity and better coaching questions1:44:42 Where to find Jeff MoyerField Speed Toolkithttps://speedbysportland.com/tool-kit-pageThe Sports Speed System Bookhttps://www.speedbysportland.com/sportsspeedsystembookThe Best Coach Education Platform There Ishttps://www.speedbysportland.com/legacy-mastermind-new7 Day Free Trial – Sports Speed Apphttps://sbs.programs.app/Main Websitehttps://www.speedbysportland.com

Most private coaches do not plateau because they are lazy.They plateau because the business model they inherited was built with a ceiling.In this Sports Speed Insider training, I break down exactly why so many competent coaches stay stuck between £2K and £4K months — even when they are smart, hardworking, and genuinely great at coaching.This is not a knowledge problem.It is not a motivation problem.It is an architecture problem.We cover: • Why trading time for money kills growth • The real problem with relying on referrals • How “doing a bit of everything” keeps you stuck • Why no leverage means no freedom • The 3-layer business structure every coach needs • How to move from technician to architect • Why authority positioning is built, not gifted • How to audit your current business model and find the ceilingIf you are a strength coach, sports coach, PT, rehab coach, or private practitioner trying to build a better business without burning yourself into the ground, this one will hit home.This is about building cash flow, leverage, and authority — not just grinding harder.⸻Timestamps0:00 – Why most private coaches get stuck at £2K–£4K months0:42 – You are not dumb, lazy, or lacking knowledge1:16 – The real issue: your business has a built-in ceiling2:07 – The typical private coaching model explained2:45 – Why 20–35 coaching hours creates an income cap3:47 – Why cancellations and inconsistency wreck your income4:20 – This is not a work ethic problem — it is an architecture problem5:20 – Structural Trap 1: trading time for money5:48 – Structural Trap 2: relying on referrals6:14 – Structural Trap 3: doing a bit of everything6:40 – Structural Trap 4: no leverage7:16 – Why working harder will not solve this7:33 – The architectural shift coaches need to make7:48 – Foundational income: your cash flow base8:16 – Why cash flow matters more than vanity profit8:46 – Leverage offers: building one-to-many models9:00 – Authority positioning: how real coaching businesses scale9:16 – The identity shift from technician to architect9:47 – How to audit your business properly10:02 – You do not need to be an author, course creator, or pro coach10:19 – The real source of leverage in your business10:42 – Why architecture, not coaching skill, is your real bottleneck11:05 – Final challenge: identify the ceiling in your businessLinksJoin Legacy Mastermindhttps://www.speedbysportland.com/legacy-mastermind-new-page

Most coaches want to help female athletes… but a lot of the advice being pushed right now is fear-based, trendy, and honestly… backwards.In this episode, I sit down with Erica (Fit Soccer Queen) to talk about what actually matters in female athlete development: high performance first, real strength & plyometric progressions, smarter youth training, and why “training around the menstrual cycle” has become one of the most confusing topics in the industry.We cover: • Why parents are getting wrecked by misinformation (and why 30-second reels don’t help) • The truth about ACL prevention: it’s not mini bands and clamshells • How to build powerful, resilient female athletes through real S&C • Youth training, fun, play, and why some parents are accidentally killing development • Erica’s conference story: the “menstrual cycle training scam” talk that triggered the room (and why it landed) • How to set expectations with parents, keep athletes consistent, and run a high-quality youth programIf you coach youth athletes, train female athletes, or work with sports parents… this one is a must.Connect with Erica: Instagram Fit Soccer Queen (link in her bio has everything)0:00 – Why coaches ask to “come on your podcast” with zero relationship1:40 – Sam’s podcast format + why social media is a misinformation cesspit3:20 – Why Erica started her podcast (COVID, education, and better conversations)5:00 – Parents are overwhelmed by misinformation (and why they program-hop)7:10 – “Body of work” + why books still matter7:40 – Writing a book: flow state vs editing hell8:40 – Female athlete training: growth spurt years + injury resilience10:20 – Menstrual cycle misinformation + fear-based coaching11:20 – The real issue: treating girls like they’re fragile12:10 – “High performance first, resiliency follows”14:00 – The speed camp refund story (because it was “too fun”)18:20 – Erica’s coaching journey: leaving college S&C, choosing youth21:20 – Consistency and commitment: why drop-in coaching kills results24:20 – Scarcity culture in S&C + toxic environments25:40 – Conference story: “Training around the menstrual cycle is a scam”29:20 – Why cutting back 2 weeks per month makes no sense33:10 – Evidence + 14 years of real-world coaching anecdotes34:10 – History lesson: are we repeating 1900s thinking?39:00 – Paula Radcliffe example + “you don’t need to make it a thing”43:30 – Coaching parents: assessments, expectations, honesty47:00 – In-person training is making a comeback50:00 – Building a home gym model (and why small can be better)57:50 – Play, games, and why climbing walls are elite development🔗 Links (Placeholders You Can Swap) • Erica’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fitsoccerqueen/?hl=en • Erica’s books: https://a.co/d/01nEXDCE • Sam’s Sports Speed System book: https://www.speedbysportland.com/sportsspeedsystembook • Legacy Mastermind: https://www.speedbysportland.com/legacy-mastermind-new-page

Most coaches use the same lifts, the same drills, and the same sprint work… yet their athletes still fail to develop real, transferable speed. The problem isn’t effort. It’s a lack of exercise classification for sprinting.In this Sports Speed Insider session, Sam breaks down why most speed programs stall, how adaptive reserve dictates what athletes can tolerate, and why learning to sprint must come before training to sprint. You’ll see how to classify exercises by specificity, motor unit recruitment, and transfer — not just “hip dominant vs knee dominant.”If you coach speed, acceleration, or team sport performance and want clarity on what to use, when to use it, and what to remove, this session will change how you structure training forever.⸻TIMESTAMPS0:05 Introduction – Why Speed Training Needs Better Classification1:05 The Biggest Gap in Modern Speed Training1:42 Why Gym Exercises Don’t Transfer to Sprint Speed2:29 Adaptive Reserve Explained (Why Athletes Get Sore)3:26 Why Sprinting Breaks Athletes Early On3:48 Learning to Sprint vs Training to Sprint4:08 Charlie Francis, EMG Data & Speed Exercise Selection4:49 Motor Unit Recruitment Explained Simply5:41 How to Classify Speed Exercises Correctly6:10 Wall Drills: Low Intensity, High Skill Transfer6:47 Exercise Order That Actually Improves Acceleration7:36 Extensive vs Intensive Speed Training (When to Use Each)8:30 When Speed Training Becomes Truly High Intensity9:13 Replacing Gym Work With High-Transfer Speed Exercises9:48 Final Takeaways + What’s Coming NextLINKSSports Speed System Bookhttps://www.speedbysportland.com/sportsspeedsystembookField Speed Toolkithttps://www.speedbysportland.com/field-speed-toolkitLegacy Mastermindhttps://www.speedbysportland.com/legacy-mastermind-home

Most coaches don’t fail because they lack knowledge.They fail because they’re stuck trading time for money.In this episode of the Sam Portland Podcast, I break down why so many coaches stay overworked, underpaid, and burned out — even when they’re great at their job — and how to build systems that scale without working more hours.I share:• The exact mistakes coaches make with time, systems, and income• Why “working harder” is the worst possible strategy• How templates, automation, and assets create leverage• The real reason pro sport coaches are already planning their exit• How to move from 1-to-1 coaching into scalable income streams• A simple ascension model you can replicate in your own businessI also share personal stories from:• Earning £18k a year while working 60-hour weeks• Getting bullied for posting YouTube content early on• Building systems that now save hundreds of hours per year• Why becoming a father forced me to master leverage fastIf you’re a coach who wants:✔ More income✔ More freedom✔ More respect✔ Less burnoutThis episode is required listening.⸻Chapters0:00 – Why most coaches are trapped trading time for money0:45 – My reality check: 60-hour weeks for £18k1:45 – Why hard work doesn’t create leverage2:35 – Why I built the £9 Legacy Mastermind3:30 – Getting bullied for posting content (and why it mattered)4:30 – The time audit that changed everything5:20 – Stop selling hours, start building assets6:15 – Templates are the fastest path to leverage7:10 – Why “everything must be personalised” is killing you8:05 – Automate admin or stay broke9:05 – The business ecosystem most coaches ignore10:15 – Calendars, payments, and recurring income systems11:20 – The 21-day cycle that saves hours of programming12:10 – Building an ascension ladder for your business13:30 – Why pro sport salaries aren’t what you think14:40 – Final message: freedom, respect, and ownership🚀 Join the £9 Legacy MastermindA low-friction community for coaches who want to:• Build scalable systems• Escape time-for-money coaching• Develop leadership & business skills• Stop feeling isolated👉 https://www.speedbysportland.com/legacy-mastermind-new-page⸻🔗 Useful Links📘 The Sports Speed System Bookhttps://www.speedbysportland.com/sportsspeedsystembook📊 The Transfer Index (Speed Decision Engine)https://www.speedbysportland.com/transfer-index-8162📩 Free Coaching Business Resources (coming soon)

Most coaches have been told that overspeed training is dangerous, advanced, or something you should avoid at all costs.That belief is wrong.In this episode, Sam Portland breaks down overspeed training from first principles and shows you how to use it safely, progressively, and effectively inside a real team sport speed system.You’ll learn: • Why overspeed sprinting has been misunderstood for years • How overspeed fits into the Sports Speed System • When athletes are actually ready for overspeed exposure • How to use overspeed without equipment • How to dose overspeed across a training cycle • Why overspeed is about learning to move faster, not just moving fastThis lesson shows how overspeed fits into conjugate sequencing, drill stacking, and exercise classification, so you can stop guessing and start programming with intent.If you coach speed and want it to show up on game day — not just in testing — this episode will change how you think about speed training.⸻🎁 FREE RESOURCE – Field Speed ToolkitIf you want speed that actually transfers to sport, grab the Field Speed Toolkit, including: • 3 Transfer-Ready Game-Specific Warm-Ups • Speed Drill Audit Sheet (cut non-transfer drills) • Plug-and-Play Training Week Structure • Speed Transfer Principles Cheatsheet👉 https://www.speedbysportland.com/field-speed-toolkit⸻⏱️ YouTube Chapters (Optimised)0:00 – Why overspeed training is misunderstood0:28 – Why overspeed isn’t dangerous when used correctly1:10 – When and why to use overspeed training1:31 – Running as load inside the Sports Speed System1:51 – Ground contact time as an overload mechanism2:05 – Who overspeed training is actually for2:36 – Training history required for overspeed sprinting2:54 – Overspeed inside conjugate sequencing3:21 – Why athletes already experience overspeed in games3:49 – Common overspeed sprint methods explained4:09 – What overspeed does to the body4:20 – Drill stacking: segment, pattern, skill4:39 – Fixing poor hip extension in team sport athletes5:01 – Learning to move faster vs just moving fast5:18 – Overspeed wall drills for acceleration5:48 – Banded wall drills explained6:30 – Simple overspeed exercises coaches can use now7:01 – How often to dose overspeed training7:25 – Where overspeed fits in a training cycle7:47 – Overspeed via movement patterns8:00 – Force pairing explained simply8:23 – Accelerating centre of mass with overspeed8:36 – Overspeed without equipment: downhill running9:17 – Managing volume and injury risk9:32 – Overspeed for max velocity development9:45 – Light bungee towing for acceleration10:10 – Overspeed drills for rhythm and coordination10:31 – Using towed buildups to peak speed10:58 – How to plan a 4–5 week overspeed cycle11:17 – Why overspeed must be cycled11:22 – Final coaching takeaway⸻🔗 Links📘 The Sports Speed System Bookhttps://www.speedbysportland.com/sportsspeedsystembook👥 Join the £9 Legacy Coaching Grouphttps://www.speedbysportland.com/legacy-mastermind-home

Strength and conditioning coaching in high-performance sport isn’t what most people think.In this episode, we break down coaching careers, burnout, player welfare, and what it really takes to survive in professional sport.This conversation is for coaches who feel stuck, frustrated, or conflicted inside the system — and want a better way forward.We cover: • The reality of strength and conditioning careers in pro sport • Why many great coaches leave professional environments • Military rehab lessons that actually transfer to sport • Burnout, identity, and long-term coaching sustainability • Why systems matter more than exercises • How to build a coaching career without compromising valuesThis is a coach-to-coach conversation about truth, longevity, and doing work that actually matters.⸻ Timestamps 00:00 – Old-school rugby culture & growing up in sport03:30 – Dental health, sleep, caffeine, and performance07:45 – Military background and early physical training12:00 – Becoming a physical training instructor16:30 – Rehab, overtraining, and broken systems20:30 – Alcohol culture in sport & coaching identity24:45 – Why toughness is misunderstood in training29:00 – UKSCA, assessments, and real-world coaching33:00 – Why many coaches leave pro sport38:30 – Systems, frameworks, and thinking under pressure44:00 – Identity, leadership, and being “the one”49:30 – Building a parallel income as a coach53:30 – What high performance really means57:00 – Advice for younger coaches58:40 – Where to connect with Andy⸻LinksField Speed Toolkithttps://speedbysportland.com/tool-kit-pageThe Sports Speed System Bookhttps://www.speedbysportland.com/sportsspeedsystembookLegacy Mastermindhttps://www.speedbysportland.com/legacy-mastermind-new7-Day Free Trial – Sports Speed Apphttps://sbs.programs.app/Main Websitehttps://www.speedbysportland.com

Why do pro footballers work with coaches outside their club… and what are they actually paying for?In this episode, we unpack how remote performance coaching works in the real world: trust, individualisation, load management, and the data that actually drives decisions.If you’ve ever wondered how coaches support players across different clubs, countries, and fixture schedules, this is the behind-the-scenes conversation.In this episode, we cover: • Sam Peyps’ path from business degree to Crystal Palace (and the realities inside a club) • Why players seek support outside the club environment • The difference between a “programme” and a proper “offering” • How remote coaches use GPS, sleep, HRV, and screening data to guide decisions • Why congested fixtures change everything (and why “hero off-seasons” backfire) • The biggest mistake clubs make: generic work that ignores individual needsThis is a real conversation about the modern performance landscape: pro football, remote coaching, data, trust, and what it takes to keep players progressing without breaking.⸻Timestamps00:00 Quick intro and why we’re diving straight in00:25 Sam Peeps’ background: business degree to S&C01:16 Early PT work and first connections with pro football02:06 How he got into Crystal Palace (2016)02:59 Leadership styles inside a pro club: Pulis vs Allardyce05:14 Why he left the club environment and moved toward agency work06:25 The foresight problem: building a career that actually works long-term07:52 The “pro athlete dream” and why many coaches enter performance sport11:23 The outside support question: why football is different12:16 How the remote coaching network actually grows14:17 Why players work with you outside the club15:01 The real reason: individualisation, flexibility, and decision-making15:31 A practical example: why generic sessions fail players16:30 What coaches need to hear about negligence and load management18:50 What platform are you using and how do you monitor players?19:10 Using wearables: Whoop, sleep, HRV, GPS integration20:05 Introducing the Lumen platform (and why it matters)20:35 The truth about wellness reporting and athlete honesty21:16 Monitoring fails without trust: hydration and compliance stories23:13 The trust layer: why wearables change the game24:13 Working internationally and building a team around the offering26:18 The off-season reality in football: timeframes, minutes, and expectations29:20 Why “hero off-seasons” don’t work31:11 The real goal: preparing players to tolerate pre-season demands33:14 Rugby vs football: physical toll and training culture36:19 What Sam Peeps is spotting across clubs (working with multiple environments)38:11 Post-game screening and how decisions are made remotely39:01 Workflow and touchpoints with players41:44 Where the business is going: scaling, team growth, and a new app idea42:26 Automating schedules around fixtures (the biggest scalability problem)43:29 How to connect with Sam Peeps + closing thoughts⸻LinksField Speed Toolkithttps://speedbysportland.com/tool-kit-pageThe Sports Speed System Bookhttps://www.speedbysportland.com/sportsspeedsystembookThe Best Coach Education Platform There Ishttps://www.speedbysportland.com/legacy-mastermind-new7 Day Free Trial – Sports Speed Apphttps://sbs.programs.app/Main Websitehttps://www.speedbysportland.com

Welcome back to the Sam Portland Podcast, where we go beyond surface-level programming and break down how speed is actually developed.In this episode, we build on last week’s discussion around adaptation and intensity and introduce a critical (and often misunderstood) concept:Conjugate Sequencing.Most coaches struggle with one core problem:👉 How do you progress intensity without destroying athletes or stalling adaptation?This episode explains how to structure extensive and intensive training methods, layer different loading strategies, and apply former Soviet concepts (Verkhoshansky) to modern speed training.You’ll learn:• Why most training stays stuck in the “general” zone• How conjugate sequencing solves the intensity problem• Extensive vs intensive speed methods (clearly explained)• How to progress acceleration without killing max velocity• Why heavy resisted work must replace—not add to—earlier methods• How to structure 6–9 week speed blocks using the law of accommodation• Why speed itself is the metric that defines intensityIf you coach speed for team sports and want clarity, structure, and real transfer, this session will change how you plan training.⸻⏱️ Timestamps0:00 – Intro & lesson overview0:10 – Why intensity progression confuses most coaches0:32 – The danger of living in “general” training1:16 – Introducing conjugate sequencing1:33 – Soviet training origins and Verkhoshansky’s influence2:11 – Why gradual intensity steps are hard to create2:26 – Senior vs youth athlete intensity strategies3:03 – Extensive vs intensive training explained3:49 – Speed examples: tempo vs maximal work4:27 – Applying conjugate sequencing to acceleration4:53 – Learn, Load, Execute in practice5:13 – Law of accommodation and block sequencing5:36 – A simple 9-week speed progression example6:12 – Why heavy resisted work doesn’t equal max velocity6:39 – Extensive wall drills and early acceleration work7:02 – When to remove extensive work7:19 – Heavy resisted vs light resisted acceleration7:43 – Why speed defines intensity8:08 – Practical weekly programming task8:40 – Measuring progress through first-step explosiveness8:49 – What’s coming next week⸻🔗 Links📘 The Sports Speed Systemhttps://www.speedbysportland.com/sportsspeedsystembook⚡ Join the £9 Legacy Mastermindhttps://www.speedbysportland.com/legacy-mastermind-home

Welcome back to another solo podcast where we strip away the noise and get to the truth about adaptation, intensity, and real speed development.In today’s episode, we unpack one of the BIGGEST reasons athletes fail to get faster:👉 Trying to engineer specific outcomes with non-specific training.Coaches everywhere fall into the trap of:Over-analysing general strength workOver-emphasising exercises that don’t transferIgnoring the Law of AccommodationForgetting the principle of specificityAnd chasing “strength → power → speed” instead of “speed → power → strength”This session will change how you program forever.You’ll learn:🔥 Why the upstream effect from strength → speed is massively overestimated🔥 Why SPEED drives power and strength (not the other way around)🔥 How to use the 21-day adaptation rule properly🔥 Why soreness destroys continuity and speed development🔥 How to apply specific strength for acceleration using band-loaded mechanics🔥 The Learn → Load → Execute model for guaranteed progress🔥 How to engineer positive adaptations without hamstring carnageIf you’re serious about developing speed in field sport athletes… this is essential viewing.⏱️ Timestamps0:00 – Intro0:01 – Why coaches obsess over the wrong things0:35 – The SNC industry’s biggest mistake1:10 – The cost of non-specific training1:48 – General vs specific speed2:11 – Why upstream strength → speed adaptation is a myth2:55 – The REAL order: Speed → Power → Strength3:33 – How to ask better programming questions4:00 – The Law of Accommodation (21-day rule)4:46 – The truth about soreness and early adaptations5:16 – Why general lifts rarely transfer5:54 – Using specificity to create real speed adaptations6:30 – Avoiding negative adaptation in team sports7:05 – Why chasing strength PRs ruins in-season performance7:43 – The importance of continuity8:00 – How to adjust training every 14–21 days8:40 – Applying this to acceleration (specific strength example)9:12 – The power of the Learn → Load → Execute model9:49 – How to load banded single-leg patterns correctly10:30 – Why specific strength increases base strength anyway10:57 – What’s coming in future masterclasses🔗 Useful Links📘 Get The Sports Speed System Bookhttps://www.speedbysportland.com/the-sports-speed-system⚡ Join the Legacy Mastermind (£9/month)https://www.speedbysportland.com/legacy-mastermind-home🔗 Useful Links

In this episode, Sam sits down with elite speed coach and former US Army Ranger Jud Linhard for one of the most raw, insightful conversations ever recorded on speed training, coaching, coiling, athletic development and the realities of performance.From inappropriate posters in rugby gyms to elite military preparation, biomechanics, rotational forces, coiling, speed skill development, and the truth about social media and coaching… this episode goes everywhere.If you coach speed or want to understand what REALLY makes athletes fast, this conversation will change the way you think forever.What Judd and Sam dive into• Why speed is a skill, not just genetics• The biggest misconceptions coaches have about speed• Coiling, rotational mechanics and why linear running is not linear• The difference between force production and force application• Why elite sprinters don’t look like Hollywood soldiers• The truth about deceleration and cutting mechanics• How to train speed safely as you age• Why resisted sprints often come before top speed work• How social media changed Jud’s life and coaching career• What makes content actually work in 2025• Why athletes need to earn the right to run fast• Why simplicity beats complexity every single timeIf you’re a coach, athlete or performance nerd who cares about speed, mechanics and athletic development, this episode is loaded with insights.⏱️ TIMESTAMPS0:00 – The story that was NOT meant to start the podcast1:18 – Why humour gets you destroyed in pro sport2:08 – Welcome Jud Linhard3:01 – Jud’s small-town upbringing and early influences4:04 – From bodybuilding to the US Army4:47 – Deployments, Ranger Regiment and the truth about soldier fitness6:07 – Why most people misunderstand military preparation7:05 – Operators, injuries and longevity8:15 – Why Hollywood gets soldiers completely wrong10:00 – Aerobic base and the real demands of soldiering11:42 – Why big muscle often hurts performance12:52 – Strength vs athleticism14:00 – Jud’s jump into coaching and speed training15:15 – The biggest misconceptions coaches have about speed17:06 – Force production vs force application18:30 – Why relaxation is a speed superpower19:55 – Long accelerations and why they work21:02 – How Jud evaluates athletes22:35 – Why resisted sprints come BEFORE full-speed23:45 – Earn the right to run fast25:00 – How Jud trains himself as an ageing athlete27:00 – Submax sprinting and drills for durability29:10 – Easy speed and why submax wins30:04 – Do athletes need to be maximally fast for team sport31:40 – Deceleration myths and why context matters33:45 – Cutting mechanics and injury risk35:20 – Understanding coiling and rotation36:40 – Why tall posture is a myth38:15 – How speed ACTUALLY works40:10 – Pulsers, arm swing and force42:00 – Why upper body matters for sprinting44:01 – Cross-pattern flows and movement sequencing46:00 – Stability before mobility47:45 – How social media changed Jud’s life and career49:15 – Hooks, attention and how to post without feeling like a sellout50:50 – Why clarity beats complexity51:40 – Where to find Jud52:15 – OutroFollow Jud:Instagram: @judlinhardWebsite: search Jud LinhardSam’s Links:The Sports Speed Systemhttps://www.speedbysportland.com/sportsspeedsystembookLegacy Coaching Grouphttps://www.speedbysportland.com/legacy-mastermind-homeThanks for watching. What was the biggest insight you got from Judd today?The bit that hit me hardest was how he explained the difference between FORCE PRODUCTION and FORCE APPLICATION.Most coaches never separate the two — and that’s exactly why their athletes stop improving.Drop your biggest takeaway below. I read every comment and reply personally.If you want more episodes diving into REAL speed development, biomechanics and coaching clarity, subscribe and hit the notification bell. Big guests coming soon.— Sam

Confused coaches create confused clients — and confused clients don’t buy.This episode breaks down EXACTLY how to build a coaching business that is clear, scalable and flexible in the new 2025 landscape.Strength & Conditioning has changed forever.Gym culture has exploded, performance training is mainstream, and more S&C coaches are stepping into business, consulting, remote coaching and hybrid models than ever before.In today’s episode, Sam reveals:🔥 What makes a coaching offer actually sell in 2025🎯• The 3-part structure: Goal → Structure → Accountability• How to stop overwhelming clients with complexity• Why cheap “headache clients” kill your business• The new reality in pro sport — and why more coaches are leaving full-time roles• How micro-products, PDFs, portals and memberships create stability• Why remote coaching needs independent thinkers, not babysittingYou’ll also hear the story of Sam’s first ever online client in 2009 (before online coaching even existed), and how that simple experience spawned the offer structures he uses today for coaches, athletes and high-performance leaders.If you’re a coach who wants more clarity, more income, and more freedom — this episode is for you. 📌 JOIN THE £9 LEGACY MASTERMINDA low-friction community for S&C coaches who want:• Better leadership• Business systems• Professional growth• A supportive network⏱️ Timestamps0:00 – Confused coaches = confused clients0:20 – The industry is changing fast (and opportunities are exploding)0:35 – Why coaches are leaving pro sport1:15 – Sam’s 2009 story: his first online program2:00 – What makes an offer actually work2:35 – The 3-part offer structure (Goal, Structure, Accountability)3:25 – How the £9 Legacy Mastermind was built4:10 – Why accountability drives results4:45 – Problem-aware vs solution-aware clients5:15 – The online coaching trap most coaches fall into6:00 – Headache clients (avoid at all costs)6:40 – Why remote coaching must be simple7:15 – The truth about business gurus and “one offer”7:55 – Why hobbyist clients won’t spend8:20 – The hidden power of micro-programs and PDFs9:15 – How to blend results, clarity, and client independence10:30 – Why your check-in process is losing you time11:30 – How to attract high-quality remote clients12:10 – Execution > ideas (the real differentiator)12:45 – How Sam scaled after getting fired13:30 – Final advice: take action today

In today’s episode, Sam sits down with Dorothy Hummel, one of the most advanced human performance practitioners in the world — specialising in neurogenetics, biochemistry, neurochemistry, behaviour, and brain-body performance integration.Most coaches focus on strength, conditioning, marginal gains, recovery tools, or mental skills — but Dorothy reveals why none of it works optimally unless you understand the brain’s biochemical blueprint.This conversation will fundamentally change how you think about: • speed training • recovery • injuries (ACL, hamstrings, chronic issues) • athlete readiness • performance psychology • stress, arousal & game-day output • sleep • nutrition • interventions that actually work • and why “guesswork coaching” is outdatedIf you’ve ever wondered why two athletes do the same training and get totally different results… THIS is the missing link.Dorothy breaks down how genetics, neurochemistry, methylation, dopamine regulation, stress hormones, inflammation and biochemistry determine performance capacity — and how coaches can stop guessing and start knowing.This episode is essential for:✔ Strength and conditioning coaches✔ Speed coaches✔ High-performance staff✔ Rehabilitation coaches✔ Athletes and player support teams✔ Anyone who wants to understand human performance at a deeper level⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Intro00:12 – How Dorothy came onto Sam’s radar00:20 – Why this conversation will blow your mind00:29 – Dorothy’s background & living abroad00:49 – What does Dorothy actually do?01:05 – Human performance & the intersection of brain, biology, behaviour01:18 – Neurogenetics explained02:11 – Training guesswork vs data-driven performance02:40 – Coaches chasing transfer without measuring context03:00 – How Dorothy communicates the brain-body link to athletes03:31 – Why focusing only on physical training limits performance04:07 – Marginal gains vs major gains04:50 – The brain as the main operator of performance05:23 – Why athletes hit performance barriers06:04 – Why the brain hates maximal output06:29 – Misunderstanding “CNS fatigue” in sport06:55 – Antecedents → motivations → behaviours07:02 – Where coaches should actually start07:13 – Collecting genetic data for personalised performance07:56 – Behaviour is genetically wired08:22 – Why motivation = dopamine08:48 – Too much dopamine? Too little? Effects on performance09:06 – Why athletes adapt differently10:01 – Metabolism, methylation & individual differences11:03 – Non-responders & slow responders explained properly12:00 – Team sports training flaws13:00 – Genetic tests: what matters & what doesn’t13:50 – Why isolated gene analysis fails14:23 – Cortisol metabolism, inflammation & performance15:00 – Mental errors = neurochemical errors16:15 – Managing training load incorrectly16:57 – Why athletes train too much17:30 – Sleep science & circadian rhythms18:07 – Sleep tools that actually work19:02 – Chronic inflammation → injury patterns20:12 – Recovery culture is broken21:03 – Athletes who try too hard to recover22:17 – Preparation through fear23:30 – “Injury-prone” is a myth24:40 – ACL & hamstring epidemic explained26:52 – Biochemistry as the real missing link28:11 – Proactive vs reactive performance30:02 – Sam’s personal sleep insights31:29 – Overactive brain patterns in high performers32:00 – Yoga Nidra, breath work and brain down-regulation33:47 – Why breathwork must be individualised35:06 – Athletes blaming their body incorrectly36:00 – Why traditional rehab misses the real cause38:06 – Chronic inflammation & long-term injuries39:52 – Why injuries persist despite great S&C40:48 – Fixing the body through fixing the biochemistry42:17 – Why pro athletes overtrain43:21 – Peptides in performance — Dorothy’s early thoughts45:18 – Preparing the whole human46:03 – Where to find Dorothy46:40 – Why she needs a newsletter (Sam bullying works 😂)46:56 – Outro

In this explosive episode, Sam Portland sits down with Chris Mattice — performance coach, neuroscientist, mentor and business strategist — to unpack the real reasons coaches stay stuck, broke, burnt out, or doubting themselves.This is not another “programming chat.”This is the truth behind your identity as a coach, how your brain actually works, and the invisible patterns that run your career, confidence, income, relationships and life.Whether you’re a speed coach, strength and conditioning coach, athlete development specialist, or coach educator, this conversation will completely change the way you see yourself and your work.Inside This Episode:✔ The psychology behind why coaches undervalue themselves✔ How neurology shapes confidence, career decisions & performance✔ The 4 A’s framework that rewires your mindset✔ Why “working harder” keeps coaches broke✔ How to build real resilience (not Instagram resilience)✔ Why the S&C industry traps talented coaches✔ The identity crisis that stops coaches progressing✔ How to authentically build a business as you✔ Why storytelling beats programming in 2025 & beyond✔ How to pivot, evolve and actually grow✔ Sam & Chris’ real stories from sport, life and businessThis is one of the most important conversations you’ll hear this year as a coach.No fluff. No surface-level advice.Just the raw truth, tools, and strategies to change your future.⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Welcome to the episode00:08 – Can you sub in rugby? Rules, resets & neurology01:06 – Breathing strategies for athletes & nervous system recovery01:48 – Sam’s questionable “snatch” definitions 😂02:05 – Introducing Chris Mati03:00 – Sam’s new mission as the speed disruptor04:10 – Mindset → Skillset → Thriving in life05:03 – How Sam & Chris first met06:00 – Chris’ background: neuroscience, therapy, performance07:20 – Why entrepreneurs sabotage themselves08:55 – How the brain forms negative patterns10:02 – Why coaches ignore their successes11:03 – Why traditional coaching fails12:01 – Field sport speed: the most basic + most advanced skill13:21 – Why heavy weights don’t make sense in-season14:05 – Journaling, dyslexia & mindset rewiring15:29 – The “four A’s” for changing your brain17:10 – Why coaches can’t skip steps20:29 – The 4 A’s explained23:55 – How the brain actually learns26:56 – Neural tags: why change is hard28:14 – Why coaches are trapped in “service mode”29:51 – Identity, ego and why coaches undervalue themselves31:23 – How to start a coaching business (authentically)33:02 – Growing by skill-stacking35:00 – Why marketing is a skill coaches must learn37:52 – What dyslexics do better than most coaches39:18 – The real reason athletes hire coaches40:57 – How to create content that actually converts42:27 – Hero’s Journey + storytelling43:34 – Why athletes don’t care who you’ve coached46:00 – The 93% rule of marketing48:05 – Rebuilding your identity at every level49:10 – Where to find Chris Mattice50:00 – Closing thoughts

In this Sports Speed Insider, we go inside the drill stack and show you how to coach transfer, not just exercises. You’ll learn how to identify key movements (à la Verkhoshansky), link them to body links and movement patterns, and apply Learn–Load–Execute so skill actually survives complexity.What you’ll learnHow to pick the segment closest to the centre of mass (hip extension first).Turning a key movement into body links and full patterns.Learn–Load–Execute: when to add force vs when to add speed of execution.Using med-ball throws, wall squats, yielding/overcoming ISOs to build control.Fixing early foot contact after better hip extension (leg speed & timing).In-season vs off-season emphasis & fractional utilisation of transfer.What’s next: the Magnitude of Effect model for programming phases.📘 From The Sports Speed System.📨 Coaching docs & progressions mentioned are in the Progressions Manual.⏱️ Timestamps / Chapters🔑 Key takeaways 00:00 Intro & why drill stacks matter01:10 The engine: key movements (Verkhoshansky)02:20 Why start at the centre of mass (hip extension)03:15 Coaching awareness: move hips → speed feet04:05 Learn: isolate hip extension (kneeling → faster reps)04:50 Survivability inside base motor control (wall squat / ISOs)05:40 Load: when to add bands/balls vs more speed06:30 Standing 2-point start → 1-step push out diagnostics07:20 Med-ball acceleration to raise RFD & positive acceleration08:05 Foot contact timing after better extension (leg speed problem)08:55 Scaling steps: 1–3, 4–7, up to 10 for positive acceleration09:30 Mapping segment → body link → pattern (strength → skill)10:05 Teaser: Magnitude of Effect & phase switching nextCoach the segment nearest COM first. Hip extension quality dictates everything downstream.Speed before load (sometimes). If extension is slow, don’t band it—create speed of execution first (e.g., med-ball accel).Survive complexity. A cue “worked” only if it holds up as you add GRF, speed, and decision-making.Leg-speed problem ≠ hip problem. Better extension often exposes early contacts—coach faster limb exchange.Context rules. Chase fractional transfer in-season; push load & volume of segments off-season.

From the Pro12 to personal training to becoming one of the biggest rugby creators online — this is the story of how Ben John turned retirement into a movement.In this episode of The Sound Important Podcast, Sam Portland sits down with Ben John (The Rugby Trainer) to break down how he went from professional rugby player to building one of the most influential skill coaching brands in sport.Ben shares the mindset, habits, and creativity behind building an online following of over 700,000, coaching players worldwide, and creating content that inspires the next generation of athletes.💡 You’ll learn:The realities of pro rugby life and player burnoutWhy “weights don’t influence the scoreboard”How game IQ and skill play matter more than raw dataThe injuries that forced early retirement — and what came nextHow The Rugby Trainer started in lockdown and became a global brandThe three golden rules for making content as a coachHow to build structure, habits, and a brand that lasts🔥 This episode blends elite performance, coaching philosophy, and content strategy — a must-listen for every S&C coach, skills coach, and creator in sport.🎧 Listen on Spotify | Apple | YouTube📲 Follow Sam: @coach_samportland🏉 Follow Ben: @therugbytrainer⏱️ 3. Timestamps00:00 – Welcome to The Sound Important Podcast00:45 – Introducing Ben John: pro rugby to content creator02:00 – The reality of strength & conditioning in pro rugby04:00 – Speed IQ vs Game IQ05:00 – Growing into your body and confidence06:30 – Overtraining, obsession, and injury cycles09:30 – Lessons from senior pros and recovery habits10:30 – Volume tolerance and athlete archetypes12:00 – Animal archetypes: Wolves, Collies, and Giraffes16:00 – Skill development through play and 1v1s17:00 – The concussion that ended a career — and started a business18:00 – The birth of The Rugby Trainer during lockdown19:00 – From one kid in the park to global influence24:00 – The hard truth of S&C career ceilings26:00 – Hiring structure, working with mentors29:00 – Building a 700K following across multiple platforms33:00 – The three content rules: Entertain, Educate, Inspire35:00 – Simple content that helps one person40:00 – The Rugby Trainer Academy and 10-minute skill sessions42:00 – How consistency compounds44:00 – Collaboration over competition in sport47:00 – The simplest details often make the biggest difference49:00 – Final thoughts: drop the ego and just start

Most coaches charge too little.And it’s killing you — your business, your energy, your confidence.In this episode, Sam Portland lays out the brutal truth about money, pricing, and self-worth in the strength & conditioning industry.If you’ve ever been told “you’re not in it for the money,” or if you feel guilty raising your rates — this is the episode that will free you.Sam shares how he went from charging £30 per hour and driving across London for late clients……to building a six-figure business by understanding pricing psychology, value perception, and trust.🎯 You’ll Learn:Why coaches are conditioned to undervalue themselvesThe link between self-worth and pricingHow to stop selling hourly sessions and start selling bundlesHow to filter out “headache clients”The formula for calculating your ideal hourly rateHow to build lifetime client value (not one-off sessions)🔥 This isn’t about greed — it’s about freedom.Start valuing your time, your expertise, and your legacy.🎧 Listen on: Spotify | Apple | YouTube💬 DM Sam: @coach_samportland💡 Join the £9/month Legacy Mastermind: JOIN HERE⏱️ 3. Timestamps00:00 – Why charging too little will kill your career00:30 – The “do it for the love” lie that shapes the S&C world01:15 – Why S&C is treated as low-skilled labour (and what to do about it)02:00 – When passion stops paying the bills03:00 – The money psychology every coach needs to confront04:30 – The real reason you feel guilty about charging more06:00 – When Sam decided enough was enough07:00 – The shift from £50/hour to £90/hour clients07:40 – The “headache money” clients you must avoid08:40 – Why pricing is about trust, not greed09:40 – Stop charging by the hour — build bundles10:30 – How to structure packages and set time limits11:00 – The real formula for figuring out your ideal rate11:50 – Diversifying your client base for financial security12:30 – The £9/month Legacy Mastermind and business templates

How do you fit world-class speed training into a chaotic team sport schedule?In this Sport Speed Insider episode, Sam Portland breaks down the daily dosing strategy for applying The Sports Speed System inside real-world team environments — whether you’re part-time with two field sessions a week or working full-time in pro sport.Learn how to use motor control, power output, and tactical integration to develop speed in-season without overloading your athletes.💡 Inside this episode:How to apply The Sports Speed System during competition weeksThe difference between general, specific, special, and tactical speedWhy “performance programs” outperform traditional weight room programsHow to balance motor control, power, and skill across the weekDaily dosing examples for pro and part-time setupsWhen and how to integrate Learn–Load–Execute sequencingWhy recovery, yin yoga, and tissue quality are key to sustainable speed gains🎯 Whether you’re an academy coach or elite performance manager, this episode will reshape how you plan and prioritise speed in-season.⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – How to apply The Sports Speed System daily00:45 – Real-world time constraints in team sport environments01:15 – Why time scarcity makes the system powerful02:00 – From general speed to tactical speed — four layers of transfer03:00 – The hierarchy: motor control, power, skill, sport03:40 – Structuring an in-season training week04:40 – The “low–high” model explained05:00 – Day-by-day breakdown of daily dosing05:30 – Motor control priority days06:15 – Learn–Load–Execute: the cornerstone of speed development07:00 – Combining power output and skill transfer08:00 – Integrating acceleration and maximum speed days09:00 – Using sport itself as a tactical speed environment09:40 – The role of recovery, yin yoga, and tissue quality10:10 – Exploratory learning and speed games for skill retention

Most people fear change.Former rugby player and fitness entrepreneur Dave Birtwistle has made it his life’s habit.From the pitch to Too Hot To Handle on Netflix to studying an MBA at Imperial College London, Dave shares the unfiltered truth about reinvention, ego death, and sustainable growth — in sport, business, and life.We talk about:🔥 The ego death that comes with leaving pro sport🔥 The burnout cycle of strength & conditioning and how to escape it🔥 Lessons from building a million-follower online fitness business🔥 What happens when fame hits before systems are ready🔥 Longevity, identity, and finding meaning beyond sport🔥 Going back to school at 30 and redefining successThis is one of those rare, mature conversations — two ex-rugby players talking openly about life, purpose, and the long game.🎧 Listen wherever you get your podcasts.📲 Follow Dave: @davebirtwistle🧠 Subscribe for weekly conversations on sport, business, and transformation.Timestamps:00:00 – The ego death of reinvention02:00 – How shared rugby trauma shaped perspective04:30 – Injury, pain, and emotional numbness from years in sport06:45 – Longevity vs short-termism in team environments09:00 – Rugby as corporate entity: replaceable bodies11:00 – The shift from athlete to coach to PT13:00 – Why most people don’t care about S&C theory16:00 – From science to service — how to coach for humans, not papers19:00 – The ego trap of S&C vs “PT”23:00 – Starting online coaching before it was cool29:00 – Pre-2020 online fitness world — the wild west33:00 – Too Hot To Handle: what fame really did to business36:00 – The 1,400-lead problem and scaling chaos43:00 – Building systems that can actually handle success49:00 – Retention > acquisition: building a business that lasts53:00 – The modern trust crisis in online coaching57:00 – How storytelling and authenticity now beat information1:00:00 – Going back to school and learning humility again1:03:00 – The freedom in letting your identity evolve

This isn’t a career.It’s a conveyor belt.And unless you get off it — you’ll spend your best years waiting for a promotion that will never come.In this solo episode, Sam Portland pulls no punches on the broken system of strength & conditioning. From unpaid internships to dead-end “high performance” titles, this is the brutal truth every young coach needs to hear before burnout becomes your reality.Sam shares real stories from his time in professional rugby — cleaning Wattbikes, putting players’ weights away, and learning the hard way that degrees don’t equal respect.🎯 You’ll learn:Why strength & conditioning isn’t a “career path” — it’s a conveyor belt.The illusion of prestige behind postgraduate degrees.The disconnect between passion and recognition in elite sport.Why senior jobs rarely open up (and what to do instead).How to build your own legacy through business, freedom, and leadership.📈 This episode will hit hard — but it might just save your coaching career.🎧 Listen wherever you get your podcasts.🔥 Join the Mastermind: https://www.speedbysportland.com/legacy-mastermind-home💬 DM Sam on Instagram: @coach_samportland⏱️ 3. Timestamps00:00 – The conveyor belt of coaching00:55 – The illusion of prestige in postgraduate education02:00 – When your degree means nothing at your first club02:50 – Cleaning Wattbikes and gym floors: the real start of the job04:30 – The culture of over-serious S&C05:40 – Why coaches create false importance06:45 – Humor, humility, and being told off for a joke07:50 – The broken hierarchy of pro sport coaching08:40 – Developmental vs senior windows — know where you belong09:50 – The bottleneck of promotions in elite sport10:30 – The real path: build your own business, not someone else’s dream11:00 – How to build your legacy today

In today’s episode, we continue building on the Learn, Load, and Execute (LLE) framework — this time applying it to non-linear sprinting and change of direction speed.You’ll learn how to break down and coach non-linear sprinting as an action, not just an agility drill, by understanding limb mechanics, acceleration angles, and how to link movement patterns to tactical speed.I also walk through practical “recipes” for coaches who want to make the most of limited training time with their athletes — from wall drills to resisted band arcs to race-based execution drills.This one’s all about turning theory into fast, applied learning.Timestamps:00:00 – Intro: Non-linear sprinting as an action, not an agility label00:45 – The Learn Load Execute (LLE) principle in speed development01:30 – Dominant vs non-dominant side and why you train one first02:10 – The biomechanical crossover between linear and non-linear sprinting03:00 – Learn: Isolated limb exposure and joint-angle drills04:30 – Load: Adding resistance to build specific work capacity05:30 – Execute: Combo construction — open step to crossover acceleration06:30 – Understanding the short, moderate, and long curve sprint zones08:00 – Designing drills for 10–20m curve accelerations09:00 – Partner band drills for angular resistance10:00 – Execution through chase games and competitive scenarios11:00 – Summary: how to reverse-engineer non-linear speed from game actions12:00 – Next week: Bringing Learn Load Execute into the gymThanks for Listening. Download your Speed Coach Toolkit Here: https://www.speedbysportland.com/tool-kit

Most S&C podcasts are all the same — Olympic lifts vs. trap bar jumps, fancy terminology, no real talk.In this brutally honest and hilarious episode, I sit down with Matt Vickery, a 30-year veteran of coaching, to cut through the noise and talk about what actually matters in strength and conditioning.From the early days of Paul Chek and Charles Poliquin to today’s guru culture, we unpack why coaches burn out, how ego kills learning, and why communication skills matter more than degrees.If you’re a young coach, this is a reality check. If you’re an older one, you’ll be nodding (and laughing) along.Timestamps:00:00 – Both will do neither just fine – setting the tone01:00 – Why we hate most S&C podcasts02:00 – Trap bars, Olympic lifts, and why none of it really matters03:00 – The early days of coaching – plyos, benches, and cracked ribs05:00 – From Wales to London – how plyometrics sold personal training08:00 – Paul Chek, Poliquin, and the birth of the fitness guru12:00 – Acupuncture, shamans, and the placebo effect15:00 – Fixing yourself vs. outsourcing your recovery17:00 – Foam rolling, massage guns, sleep – the myth of the 1 percenters20:00 – Why young coaches need to stop choosing camps25:00 – The problem with S&C education and university courses29:00 – Working with athletes vs. “Karens” – who really needs coaching33:00 – The Chelsea job offer – £9 k a year and a reality check36:00 – Team-sport chaos – one-hour-a-week programs40:00 – Louis Simmons, Westside Barbell, and learning the real science47:00 – Genetic freaks, speed myths, and why most coaches chase noise50:00 – Closing thoughts – no dashboards, just doing the work👉 Follow Matt on Instagram → @jumpthrowlift👉 Subscribe for real conversations on coaching, speed, and sport performance

Most coaches burn out before they ever break through.And that’s the cold, hard truth about working in professional sport.In this episode, I go deep into the realities of life as a strength & conditioning coach — the burnout, the underpayment, the toxic cultures — and how I broke free to build multiple businesses, earn six figures, and take back control of my life.This is not motivation fluff. It’s a wake-up call to every coach chasing prestige over purpose.If you’ve ever felt undervalued, overworked, or trapped by the badge on your tracksuit — this one’s for you.Timestamps:00:00 – The truth: most coaches burn out before they break through01:00 – My early dream: pro sport, prestige, and the illusion of status03:00 – Breaking my leg, losing rugby, and finding coaching05:00 – Getting into Wasps and Ealing — and getting fired06:30 – Why I left pro sport (and why I’m glad I did)07:00 – Coaches: great at structure for others, terrible for themselves08:30 – The money reality of sport — and how it limits your life09:30 – Boundaries, values, and saying “no” to the 24/7 mindset10:50 – Building systems, focus, and your one thing11:45 – Stop copying the broke gurus — define your success13:00 – Build your side hustle right (without burning out)13:40 – My final message to every coach stuck in the system👊 If this hits home, share it with a friend who needs to hear it.🎧 Subscribe for more no-BS truth about sport, business, and freedom.

The Learn Load Execute Framework inside the sports speed system creates a powerful model for the development of physical qualities! Master its application and your athletes will thank you.

What’s the difference between “just posting on social media” and building a personal brand that creates trust, clients, and opportunities?In this episode of the Sam Portland Podcast, I’m joined by branding expert Alex Preece. We break down why personal branding is really about reputation and trust — and how coaches can move beyond the “assembly line” and stand out.From LinkedIn strategy to email lists, from mindset to monetisation, this conversation is packed with real stories (including Adidas, Usain Bolt, and Kevin Hart!) and practical steps coaches can start using today.Timestamps:00:00 – Why we skip intros and get straight to value01:30 – What personal branding really is (reputation, not ego)03:30 – Trust, proof, and why stories sell better than CVs06:30 – Breaking away from the “assembly line” of coaches09:30 – The three pillars of content: teach, tell, show12:30 – Borrowed vs owned media (and why email lists matter)15:50 – My own social media hack horror story20:00 – The perfect week framework for self-employed coaches27:00 – Branding is about what people say when you leave the room37:00 – Overcoming fear of being judged as a “self-promoter”46:00 – Alex’s wildest corporate branding story (Kevin Hart + Usain Bolt)50:00 – Where to find Alex Preece👉 Subscribe for more coaching + business strategy episodes

Every smart coach in pro sport is building something of their own. Truth is I never trusted pro environments and neither should you. This is how you can work with athletes outside of pro sports.

When you train acceleration using this framework, there is no turning back!!! Grab a copy of the Sports Speed System Framework Playbooks here: https://www.speedbysportland.com/product-details/product/sportsspeedsystemplaybook

What happens when a veteran strength coach loses his role after 12 years? For Nate, it meant rediscovering his passion, redefining his path, and finding purpose beyond the weight room.In this episode of the Sam Portland Podcast, Nate shares his candid journey through sport, coaching, and unexpected career changes. From being a thrower in college, to coaching athletes at Buffalo, to becoming a “strength coach without a strength job,” this is a raw conversation about resilience, family, and what it really means to coach.If you’re a young coach, this one’s essential listening.Timestamps:00:00 – Why we skip the standard intros01:30 – Nate’s early story: football, track & field, and the weight room06:45 – Competing in throws and lessons from powerlifting14:00 – The importance of competing as a coach20:00 – First lessons in coaching contact sport athletes27:30 – COVID, cuts, and becoming a coach without a strength job36:00 – Balancing family, career, and quality of life44:00 – Certifications, teaching, and the next chapter52:00 – Why imperfections—not perfection—connect us

Cert inflation is real — and it’s draining your bank account. You don’t need another overpriced qualification. You need results, communication, and business skills that actually pay.In this episode of the S&C Business Club Podcast, I break down why chasing certifications is costing you more than money. I share my own journey — from falling for sales funnels, to building my own certification, to walking away from meaningless tick-box workshops. More importantly, I reveal what coaches really need to build financial independence:✅ Results that matter✅ Communication & emotional intelligence✅ Business skills that open doors (and wallets)If you’re undervalued, underpaid, and wondering how to make this career work for you, this is the wake-up call.📘 Download your free Side Hustle Playbook → https://sportlandconsulting.acr.fit/makeextracash📧 Or email me: [email protected]:00:00 – Cert inflation is real (and it’s costing you)02:10 – Falling for funnels & the Soviet coach myth05:00 – Why most certs don’t get you jobs09:20 – What you actually need: results, communication, business15:00 – Lessons from contracts, law, and losing a job20:30 – How business skills open the world of opportunities25:00 – The Side Hustle Playbook (free resource for coaches)28:00 – Reclaim your independence & raise the standards of the profession👉 If you liked this episode, send it to a friend and let’s raise the standards together.

Grab 100 Speed Training Lessons the "gurus" charge your 1000's for: https://www.speedbysportland.com/100speed-lessonsMost coaches cram too much into a 7-day cycle—and end up killing speed gains. Here’s how to structure your week the right way.In this whiteboard session, I break down exactly how to apply the Sports Speed System across a training week. We’ll cover how to space out speed sessions, manage recovery, and build intensity over time without burning athletes out.This episode is for any strength & conditioning coach, performance coach, or team sport athlete who wants to avoid negative transfer, maximize freshness, and truly unlock speed development.Timestamps:00:00 – Why training density matters in speed development02:15 – Off-season example: breaking the 7-day cycle05:30 – How fatigue creates negative transfer08:10 – Structuring speed sessions across 14 days12:00 – Max speed, acceleration & change of direction pillars16:45 – How to integrate weights & recovery22:10 – Potentiation cycling explained26:30 – The 28-day cycle for sustained progress30:00 – Next step: Learn-Load-Execute for acceleration

What happens when structure turns into stress? Former pro Howard Packman tells you in no uncertain terms why it’s time for freedom on the field.”In this clip, Howard Packman—once a rising star with Northampton Saints and England U20s—lays bare the fragility of over-coaching. As he points out, too many coaches cling to rigid game plans out of fear, but sometimes the best strategy is simply: “Go and score some fucking points, lads.”Now serving as Academy Boys’ Head Coach at Sevenoaks RFC, Packman brings real-field insight to his coaching philosophy. In this conversation, he explores the need for freedom, instinct, and adaptability—drawing from his own experiences across clubs like Bedford Blues, Ealing Trailfinders, Doncaster Knights, and even a full international debut for Germany. Enjoy this bold insight from a former pro turned youth coach? Subscribe and leave a comment below—what’s one game you wish you’d let players run with instinct?

💡 Most S&C coaches are chasing low-paying jobs… but what if you could flip the script and build something bigger?In today’s episode, I share why the S&C Coach Side Hustle Guide exists and how it can help you package your skills, find your first clients, and start earning extra income alongside your coaching career.This isn’t about grinding for £19k a year in a job you don’t love. It’s about creating your own path, building a business around your expertise, and raising the standard of our profession together.👉 Download your FREE S&C Coach Side Hustle Guide here: https://sportlandconsulting.acr.fit/makeextracashIf this resonates with you, drop a comment and let me know how you’re starting your side hustle. And don’t forget — subscribe for more S&C Business Club content.⏱️ Timestamps:00:00 – Why I created the Side Hustle Guide02:00 – The problem with traditional S&C career paths04:15 – How building a side hustle changes the game07:30 – Raising the standard of the profession11:57 – The vision for the next generation of coaches

What happens when the pressure of professional football becomes too much? In this candid conversation, we dive into the realities of stepping away from the pitch, the search for balance, and finding new passions in fitness and motorsport.From letting go of the stress of football coaching to embracing new challenges, this clip is all about growth, balance, and the never-ending cycle of falling out of balance—only to find it again.Whether you’re chasing a career pivot, exploring your passions, or simply trying to find balance in your own life, you’ll connect with this.👉 Want to connect with today’s guest? Reach out on Instagram: @edgeofthebox1

Welcome to The Sam Portland Podcast, hosted by Sam Portland. The creator of The Sports Speed System. Join us in Sam Portland as we explore the cutting edge of speed training and strength and conditioning for athletes. Whether you’re a coach, athlete, or fitness enthusiast, our podcast dives deep into proven strategies, expert insights, and real-life stories to help you excel. From advanced sprint mechanics to innovative strength techniques, we’ll give you the tools to reach peak performance.Get Weekly Speed Coaching Here: https://www.speedbysportland.com/sports-speed-insider-pageFormat & Topics:Weekly episodes featuring: • Expert interviews with coaches and athletes in San Portland. • Tips for optimizing speed and strength for team sports. • Discussions on cutting-edge research in sports science. • Practical advice for athletes and coaches to apply immediately.

Welcome to The Sam Portland Podcast, hosted by Sam Portland. The creator of The Sports Speed System. Join us in Sam Portland as we explore the cutting edge of speed training and strength and conditioning for athletes. Whether you’re a coach, athlete, or fitness enthusiast, our podcast dives deep into proven strategies, expert insights, and real-life stories to help you excel. From advanced sprint mechanics to innovative strength techniques, we’ll give you the tools to reach peak performance.Get Weekly Speed Coaching Here: https://www.speedbysportland.com/sports-speed-insider-pageFormat & Topics:Weekly episodes featuring: • Expert interviews with coaches and athletes in San Portland. • Tips for optimizing speed and strength for team sports. • Discussions on cutting-edge research in sports science. • Practical advice for athletes and coaches to apply immediately.

Welcome to The Sam Portland Podcast, hosted by Sam Portland. The creator of The Sports Speed System. Join us in Sam Portland as we explore the cutting edge of speed training and strength and conditioning for athletes. Whether you’re a coach, athlete, or fitness enthusiast, our podcast dives deep into proven strategies, expert insights, and real-life stories to help you excel. From advanced sprint mechanics to innovative strength techniques, we’ll give you the tools to reach peak performance.Get Weekly Speed Coaching Here: https://www.speedbysportland.com/sports-speed-insider-pageFormat & Topics:Weekly episodes featuring: • Expert interviews with coaches and athletes in San Portland. • Tips for optimizing speed and strength for team sports. • Discussions on cutting-edge research in sports science. • Practical advice for athletes and coaches to apply immediately.

Welcome to The Sam Portland Podcast, hosted by Sam Portland. The creator of The Sports Speed System. Join us in Sam Portland as we explore the cutting edge of speed training and strength and conditioning for athletes. Whether you’re a coach, athlete, or fitness enthusiast, our podcast dives deep into proven strategies, expert insights, and real-life stories to help you excel. From advanced sprint mechanics to innovative strength techniques, we’ll give you the tools to reach peak performance.Get Weekly Speed Coaching Here: https://www.speedbysportland.com/sports-speed-insider-pageFormat & Topics:Weekly episodes featuring: • Expert interviews with coaches and athletes in San Portland. • Tips for optimizing speed and strength for team sports. • Discussions on cutting-edge research in sports science. • Practical advice for athletes and coaches to apply immediately.

Welcome to The Sam Portland Podcast, hosted by Sam Portland. The creator of The Sports Speed System.  Join us in Sam Portland as we explore the cutting edge of speed training and strength and conditioning for athletes. Whether you’re a coach, athlete, or fitness enthusiast, our podcast dives deep into proven strategies, expert insights, and real-life stories to help you excel. From advanced sprint mechanics to innovative strength techniques, we’ll give you the tools to reach peak performance. Get Weekly Speed Coaching Here: https://www.speedbysportland.com/sports-speed-insider-page Format & Topics: Weekly episodes featuring: • Expert interviews with coaches and athletes in San Portland. • Tips for optimizing speed and strength for team sports. • Discussions on cutting-edge research in sports science. • Practical advice for athletes and coaches to apply immediately.

Welcome to The Sam Portland Podcast, hosted by Sam Portland. The creator of The Sports Speed System.  Join us in Sam Portland as we explore the cutting edge of speed training and strength and conditioning for athletes. Whether you’re a coach, athlete, or fitness enthusiast, our podcast dives deep into proven strategies, expert insights, and real-life stories to help you excel. From advanced sprint mechanics to innovative strength techniques, we’ll give you the tools to reach peak performance. Get Weekly Speed Coaching Here: https://www.speedbysportland.com/sports-speed-insider-page Format & Topics: Weekly episodes featuring: • Expert interviews with coaches and athletes in San Portland. • Tips for optimizing speed and strength for team sports. • Discussions on cutting-edge research in sports science. • Practical advice for athletes and coaches to apply immediately.

Welcome to The Sam Portland Podcast, hosted by Sam Portland. The creator of The Sports Speed System.  Join us in Sam Portland as we explore the cutting edge of speed training and strength and conditioning for athletes. Whether you’re a coach, athlete, or fitness enthusiast, our podcast dives deep into proven strategies, expert insights, and real-life stories to help you excel. From advanced sprint mechanics to innovative strength techniques, we’ll give you the tools to reach peak performance. Get Weekly Speed Coaching Here: https://www.speedbysportland.com/sports-speed-insider-page Format & Topics: Weekly episodes featuring: • Expert interviews with coaches and athletes in San Portland. • Tips for optimizing speed and strength for team sports. • Discussions on cutting-edge research in sports science. • Practical advice for athletes and coaches to apply immediately.

Welcome to The Sam Portland Podcast, hosted by Sam Portland. The creator of The Sports Speed System.  Join us in Sam Portland as we explore the cutting edge of speed training and strength and conditioning for athletes. Whether you’re a coach, athlete, or fitness enthusiast, our podcast dives deep into proven strategies, expert insights, and real-life stories to help you excel. From advanced sprint mechanics to innovative strength techniques, we’ll give you the tools to reach peak performance. Get Weekly Speed Coaching Here: https://www.speedbysportland.com/sports-speed-insider-page Format & Topics: Weekly episodes featuring: • Expert interviews with coaches and athletes in San Portland. • Tips for optimizing speed and strength for team sports. • Discussions on cutting-edge research in sports science. • Practical advice for athletes and coaches to apply immediately.

Welcome to The Sam Portland Podcast, hosted by Sam Portland. The creator of The Sports Speed System.  Join us in Sam Portland as we explore the cutting edge of speed training and strength and conditioning for athletes. Whether you’re a coach, athlete, or fitness enthusiast, our podcast dives deep into proven strategies, expert insights, and real-life stories to help you excel. From advanced sprint mechanics to innovative strength techniques, we’ll give you the tools to reach peak performance. Get Weekly Speed Coaching Here: https://www.speedbysportland.com/sports-speed-insider-page Format & Topics: Weekly episodes featuring: • Expert interviews with coaches and athletes in San Portland. • Tips for optimizing speed and strength for team sports. • Discussions on cutting-edge research in sports science. • Practical advice for athletes and coaches to apply immediately.

This hamstring framework has worked for me time and time again. I hope you can take alot from this episode. Want to be come an insider? Join here: https://www.speedbysportland.com/sports-speed-insider-page

As a coach, it is important to target, highlight and make significant changes in the qualities you want to effect. Most coaches DON'T DO THAT! BECOME AN INSIDER:https://www.speedbysportland.com/sports-speed-insider-page

Yes...we are back and here is why I'm looking forward to having some amazing conversations!

Scott and Sam discussed the challenges of work-life balance in the digital age, emphasising the need to set boundaries and prioritise personal time. They also talked about the importance of innovation in coaching and the challenges of managing an athlete's training program. The conversation highlighted the need for a holistic approach to exercise and rehab that takes into account the root cause of problems and the individual needs of each athlete. Scott and Sam also discussed the importance of understanding the mechanisms of injury for athletes and how this knowledge can inform training programs. They emphasized the need to focus on developing an athlete's overall athleticism and addressing any deficits they may have, rather than just their sport-specific skills. The conversation also touched on the importance of the visual and vestibular systems in movement, and the need to optimise these systems for optimal performance and injury prevention. Overall, the meeting emphasised the importance of a holistic approach to coaching and training that takes into account the individual needs of each athlete. It also highlighted the challenges of balancing work and personal life in the digital age, and the need to prioritise personal time and set boundaries. The conversation provided valuable insights into the complexities of sports coaching and training, and the importance of innovation and optimization in achieving optimal performance and injury prevention.

Join us on a hot summers day talking shop on all things coaching, business and life. This podcast was recorded live and the Legacy Annual Retreat.