Westside Barbell: The Conjugate Method Podcast
by Westside Barbell
The Conjugate Method, straight from the source. Westside Barbell is where the method was built, and this is the podcast where it gets taught. Host Mac McFarland sits down with the coaches, athletes, and specialists using conjugate training to build strength and speed in the real world. NFL, UFC, grappling, track, wrestling, and the weight room floor at 705 Hadley Drive. Tom Barry, Head Coach of Westside Barbell, joins to answer your training questions and break down gym topics. Tom was mentored and chosen by Louie Simmons to carry the method forward after his passing. Every episode: max effort, dynamic effort, special exercises, and the reasoning behind them. If you coach athletes, train yourself, or want to understand why the Conjugate Method works, this is your show. New episodes Monthly. Learn the system at westside-barbell.com.
Episodes
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Remote Coaching for Athletes: Video and Feedback Loops
Do What Others Won't Collection: https://www.westside-barbell.com/collections/do-what-others-wont-limited-winter-release Become a Certified Conjugate Coach: https://www.westside-barbell.com/pages/conjugate-coach-certification Remote coaching for athletes works only when the feedback loop does.…
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Conjugate Method for High School Athletes | Dylan Heath
Do What Others Won't Collection: https://www.westside-barbell.com/collections/do-what-others-wont-limited-winter-release Become a Certified Conjugate Coach: https://www.westside-barbell.com/pages/conjugate-coach-certification Here’s how the conjugate method for high school athletes works in a…
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Conjugate Accessory Work: How to Program It Right
Do What Others Won't Collection: https://www.westside-barbell.com/collections/do-what-others-wont-limited-winter-release Become a Certified Conjugate Coach: https://www.westside-barbell.com/pages/conjugate-coach-certification Conjugate accessory work is where most of your strength gains are…
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Louie Simmons: How He Made Westside Barbell Legendary
Do What Others Won't Collection: https://www.westside-barbell.com/collections/do-what-others-wont-limited-winter-release Become a Certified Conjugate Coach: https://www.westside-barbell.com/pages/conjugate-coach-certification Louie Simmons stories from two people who spent years beside him at...
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Conjugate Method for Athletes: Why Feedback Matters
Do What Others Won't Collection: https://www.westside-barbell.com/collections/do-what-others-wont-limited-winter-release Become a Certified Conjugate Coach: https://www.westside-barbell.com/pages/conjugate-coach-certification The Conjugate Method for athletes looks different than the powerlifting...
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Volleyball Strength Training With Pro Coach Brian Bott
Do What Others Won't Collection: https://www.westside-barbell.com/collections/do-what-others-wont-limited-winter-release Become a Certified Conjugate Coach: https://www.westside-barbell.com/pages/conjugate-coach-certification Volleyball strength training from Coach Brian Bott, head strength coach...
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Ally Kennedy: How the Fastest Player in Lacrosse Trains
Become a Certified Conjugate Coach: https://www.westside-barbell.com/pages/conjugate-coach-certification Ally Kennedy is the fastest player in women's lacrosse and the 2026 World Championship MVP. She breaks down the training behind 19.3 mph and what most lacrosse players get wrong about lifting....
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Conjugate Method: Earning the Right to Interpret It
Become a Certified Conjugate Coach: https://www.westside-barbell.com/pages/conjugate-coach-certification Mac McFarland sits down with Tom Barry, whom Louie Simmons entrusted to carry Westside Barbell forward, to discuss the line between real adaptation and borrowed vocabulary. Tom covers why...
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Dante Leon on Becoming the #1 Pound-for-Pound Grappler
Become a Certified Conjugate Coach: https://www.westside-barbell.com/pages/conjugate-coach-certification Dante Leon, the world's #1 pound-for-pound grappler, breaks down what it actually takes to be a professional jiu-jitsu athlete. He sits down with Mac McFarland on the Westside Barbell Podcast…
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Conjugate Method for Functional Fitness and Crossfit
Westside Barbell's functional fitness lead coach Zach Filer joins Mac McFarland to talk Conjugate Method for functional fitness and CrossFit. Zach spent 17 years running a CrossFit affiliate, taught kettlebell sport with Jeff Martone at CrossFit Kettlebell, and joined Conjugate Tactical with…
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Introducing the Dynamic Effort Method for Beginners with Burley Haw
Join The Club: https://www.conjugateclub.com/ In this episode of the Westside Barbell Podcast, host Mac McFarland sits down with Burley Hawk to break down his recent article on introducing the dynamic effort method for beginners. Burley explains what the dynamic effort method is, why it's…
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Passing the Torch: The Next Chapter of the Westside Barbell Podcast
Learn The Method That Built Records: https://bit.ly/4xF9RP0 In this episode of the Westside Barbell Podcast, Tom Barry steps into the guest seat as he officially passes the podcast over to the new host Mac McFarland. Tom looks back at how the podcast started with Louie Simmons, why it became an...
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Joe Kenn: There Are No Absolutes in Strength Training (Full Episode)
Joe "Big House" Kenn coached strength in the NFL for nearly a decade. He sits down with Tom Barry for four decades of lessons. From a guard at Wake Forest to leading strength programs at Boise State, Utah, Arizona State, and Louisville, Joe Kenn has built one of the most decorated coaching…
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When Culture Becomes a Trap | Westside Barbell Podcast
In this episode of the Westside Barbell podcast, hosts Tom Barry and Burley Hawk discuss the importance of transitioning from hard work to smart training methods for athletes. They explore the differences between athletes with seasonal structures and those without, emphasizing the need for…
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Why You Should MAX OUT Every Week (Without Getting Injured) - Westside Barbell Podcast
Become a Certified Conjugate Coach: https://www.westside-barbell.com/pages/conjugate-coach-certification In today’s episode of the podcast, Tom and Burley answer your questions on various aspects of strength training. Topics discussed include dynamic effort training, max effort training…
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Unpacking the Conjugate Method A Q&A with Tom Barry and Burley Hawk
In today’s episode of the podcast, Tom and Burley answer your questions on various aspects of strength training. Topics discussed include dynamic effort training, max effort training frequency, the importance of strength in grappling, and the common misconceptions surrounding the conjugate…
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Introduction To The Bench Press: Techniques and Methods
Download The Conjugate Method: Introduction to Bench Press Training (E‑Book) here Tom & Burley delve into the intricacies of bench pressing, focusing on the methods employed at Westside Barbell. It covers the max effort, dynamic effort, and repeated effort training methods, emphasizing the...
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Mastering the Dynamic Effort Method
In this episode of the Westside Barbell podcast, the Tom & Burley delve into the complexities of the Dynamic Effort Method, discussing its purpose, execution, and the importance of rate of force development. They explore the three-week wave format, emphasizing the need for proper technique and...
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Conjugate Method for Combat Athletes: The Westside Barbell Way
In the debut episode of the Westside Barbell Combat Sports Strength & Conditioning Podcast, hosts Tom Barry and Burley Hawk introduce listeners to the world of strength training tailored for combat athletes, including competitive Jiu-Jitsu athletes, Wrestlers, and MMA fighters. They discuss the...
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Ask Westside #1: The Max Effort Method
In this power-packed episode, we dive deep into the Max Effort Method—not just the “what,” but the “how” and “why” behind one of the most effective tools in strength programming. Whether you're a coach programming for athletes, a gym owner refining your training cycles, or a lifter pushing for...
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How Westside Barbell Builds Brutal Strength with The Maximal Effort Method
Join Tom Barry and Burley Hawk as they explore the mindset, culture, and methods behind Westside’s Maximal Effort training. From Louie Simmons’ legendary principles to the chaos of group training that runs like a machine, this episode covers everything from exercise selection to the art of…
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The Conjugate Method for High School Football Strength, Speed, and Durability
In this episode, we dive into why the Conjugate Method, pioneered and popularized by Louie Simmons and Westside Barbell, is particularly effective for high school football athletes. We explore the crucial role of strength training in enhancing football performance, discussing how absolute…
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Unracked Webinar: The Conjugate Method with Tom Barry
Today's episode is the Unracked: Mastering the Conjugate Method webinar Tom did with BridgeAthletic "UNRACKED is a live event series from BridgeAthletic where top coaches break down the training systems, methods, and philosophies that drive elite performance. In this session, Tom Barry, CEO of...
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Dynamic Effort Combined Training at Westside Barbell – How to Build Speed & Power
In this episode of the Westside Barbell Podcast, Tom Barry and Burley Hawk break down Dynamic Effort Training, its role in building explosive strength, and how Westside has adapted it for powerlifters, MMA fighters, and Jiu-Jitsu athletes. Topics Covered: What is Dynamic Effort Training & how…
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Driven by Westside: Anthony Schlegel
In this episode of Driven by Westside, join Tom Barry of Westside Barbell as he picks up former Ohio State linebacker, NFL athlete and renowned strength coach Anthony Schlegel for an in-depth, on-the-road conversation about all things training. From their days under legendary coaches like Louie...
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Strength Training and Athletic Performance, How Training Intent Impacts Performance
On today's episode, using a recent training example in the gym, Tom & Burley discuss utilizing the conjugate method for strength training and how it impact's athlete's performance. They reinforce how important consistency is over PR's for an athlete and how vital training intent is. Key Topics…
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Westside Barbell 2025
Welcome to the first episode of the Westside Barbell Podcast for 2025. Tom & Burley recap the last 2 years at Westside. They discuss Louie's passing, his plans for the future of Westside, and his ongoing legacy. They also go over the current training approach at Westside and Westside's plan for...
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From Five to 500: A Journey of Recovery and Strength with Tommy Richardson
In this episode, we're joined by Tommy Richardson, a former USMC Infantryman and Navy SEAL with a combined 26 years of service. Tommy is a Guest Contributing Writer at Westside and is passionate about shedding light on Louie Simmons' methods for both those active in the U.S. military and those...
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Unlocking Peak Performance: How Applied Behavior Analysis Transforms Athletes with Sarah Welsh
In this episode, we’re joined by Sarah Welsh, an expert in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), to explore how ABA is applied to enhance performance in professional athletes. We begin by discussing Sarah’s background, including her inspiration for getting into the field, and break down ABA into…
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Westside Recap: Inside ADCC 2024, Athlete Updates, UFC PI Tour #84
Westside Recap: Inside ADCC 2024, Athlete Highlights, UFC PI Tour & More Today's episode is a solo cast with Tom, where he recaps the last 3 months at Westside. Firstly, he recaps the ADCC Las Vegas event, covering performances of Dante, Max, and Lawson. He also dives into how Westside’s dynamic...
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Mastering Strength and Strategy: Dante Leon’s ADCC Prep #83
Join Tom Barry in this episode of the Westside Barbell Podcast featuring elite grappler Dante Leon. Dive deep into Dante's journey as he prepares for the prestigious Abu Dhabi Combat Club (ADCC) Championship. https://adcombat.com/ Discover how Dante balances his rigorous training regimen with...
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The Journey and Strength Training of "The Immortal' Matt Brown #82
Join Tom Barry in this episode of the Westside Barbell Podcast featuring "The Immortal" Matt Brown. Deep dive into Matt's journey as he shares his experiences transitioning from a professional fighter to a dedicated coach and family man. Discover how he navigates his post-retirement life, his...
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Women's Pro Lacrosse Strength Training : Ally Kennedy #81
Join Tom Barry as he chats with Ally Kennedy, Pro Lacrosse Player and Westside Barbell Athlete. Learn about how she started lacrosse, what brought her to Westside, and the impact training at Westside has on her performance as an athlete Ally Kennedy is not only a top-tier professional lacrosse...
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Training for Professional MMA: Myles Robinson #80
Join Tom Barry as he chats with Myles Robinson, Pro MMA fighter and Westside Barbell Athlete. Learn about his beginning in MMA, his start at Westside Barbell, and the trials & challenges he has overcome throughout his career Key Highlights: Myles Robinson's background and his training at Westside...
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How to Optimize Athlete Health: Doctor Shawn Bailey #79
Join Tom Barry as he chats with Dr. Shawn Bailey, the dedicated team physician at Westside Barbell and head of The Armory in Columbus, Ohio. Dr. Bailey's primary care, physical therapy, and sports science expertise is crucial in optimizing athlete health and performance. Discover his journey,...
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How to Get Started with Conjugate Training - #78
Join Tom Barry and Burley Hawk as they break down the fundamentals of the Conjugate System and guide you in incorporating it into your training. Addressing common questions, they discuss when to start, appropriate warm-ups, exercise selection, and more. Whether you're a beginner or looking to...
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Should Athletes Train Conjugate #77
Join Tom Barry and Burley Hawk as they delve into the versatility of the Conjugate System, exploring how it can be tailored to different sports, including golf. They discuss PGA-level golfers' unique challenges and the importance of specific training methods to enhance performance and…
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MMA Strength & Conditioning: Lance Palmer #76
In this episode, Tom Barry interviews professional MMA fighter Lance Palmer about the importance of balancing conditioning and strength training, especially for athletes preparing for competition. They delve into how training adaptations evolve with age and the significant impact on joints and...
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Skateboarding and Strength: Neen Williams #75
In this episode, Tom Barry interviews professional skateboarder and fitness coach Neen Williams. They discuss how Neen balances his passion for skateboarding with the work it entails, sharing insights on setting and achieving new personal records (PRs) in training. Neen emphasizes the importance…
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Strongman at Westside, MMA Coaching, Onnit - Craig Bongelli - WSBB#74
Please support this podcast by checking out our sponsors: -Studio Sponsor: CLMS - https://clmslandscapes.com/ - The Butcher & Grocer: https://thebutcherandgrocer.com/ - Conjugate Tactical: https://conjugatetactical.com/ - The Conjugate Club: https://www.conjugateclub.com/ Craig Bongelli is a…
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Westside Style MMA Training, Muay Thai Champion, Double Knockout - WSBB #73 - Dorian Price
Please support this podcast by checking out our sponsors: -Studio Sponsor: CLMS - https://clmslandscapes.com/ - The Butcher & Grocer: https://thebutcherandgrocer.com/ - Conjugate Tactical: https://conjugatetactical.com/ - The Conjugate Club: https://www.conjugateclub.com/ Dorian Price is is a...
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Beginner’s Guide To Conjugate: The Maximal Effort Method
Please support this podcast by checking out our sponsors: -Studio Sponsor: CLMS - https://clmslandscapes.com/ - The Butcher & Grocer: https://thebutcherandgrocer.com/ - Conjugate Tactical: https://conjugatetactical.com/ - The Conjugate Club: https://www.conjugateclub.com/ Welcome to our new…
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Internship at Westside Barbell, Learning From Louie, Integrity - WSBB #72 - Jordan Syatt
Please support this podcast by checking out our sponsors: -Studio Sponsor: CLMS - https://clmslandscapes.com/ - The Butcher & Grocer: https://thebutcherandgrocer.com/ - Conjugate Tactical: https://conjugatetactical.com/ - The Conjugate Club: https://www.conjugateclub.com/ Jordan Syatt is a…
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Beginner’s Guide To Conjugate - Introduction
Please support this podcast by checking out our sponsors: -Studio Sponsor: CLMS - https://clmslandscapes.com/ - The Butcher & Grocer: https://thebutcherandgrocer.com/ - Conjugate Tactical: https://conjugatetactical.com/ - The Conjugate Club: https://www.conjugateclub.com/ Welcome to our new…
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Working with MMA Athletes, Stipe Miocic, being a Performance Coach and more.. -WSBB#71-Bobby Kaleal
Bobby Kaleal is an award-winning performance coach, entrepreneur, inventor, and keynote speaker who specializes in extracting greatness out of individuals, teams, and organizations. Drawing from his philosophy of Recognition, Educating, and Consistency (REC), Bobby helps individuals and companies...
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Professional Grappling, Pioneering Strength Training in BJJ, The Illusion of going ”All Out”-WSBB#70
Dante Leon is an accomplished Canadian grappler as well as a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, Leon is widely recognized as one of the most talented athletes of his generation, a reputation earned while competing in the lower belt divisions of BJJ when he earned titles at important tournaments…
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Conjugate for Tactical Training, Training Different Demographics & More, - Jason ”Gus” Gusic - WSBB#69
The concept of Conjugate Tactical predates our official launch in 2018 back nearly 10 years. Serving in a number of roles at Westside Barbell for nearly a decade, Conjugate Tactical’s founder “Gus” began to apply his knowledge of and application of the Westside Methods to address the increasing...
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Utilizing The Conjugate Method, Dedication To Athletes And More... - WSBB#68 -Brian Bott
Brian Bott is the owner and day to day operational Manager of Sports AdvantEdge and Edge Baseball. He has been a performance coach for over 20 years. He has a Masters Degree in Exercise Science from the University of North Dakota and is C.S.C.S. Certified. As an athlete Brian was a 4 year starter...
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Patience - Gary Benford - WSBB 67
Gary Benford is world record holding powerlifter and loyal member of the Westside Barbell Alumni. He starting training with Louie back in 590 Larcomb in the Late 70's and still competes to this day. Since the age of 50, Benford has broken 27 world records in the bench press, competing in five...
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”Adapt On The Fly” - Dustin Brancheau - WSBB#66
Dustin is the Owner/Special Strengths Coach of Advantedge Sports Marquette, MI. Dustin is well experienced and highly qualified coach, most notably completing a B.S. in Physical Education & Coaching from Northern Michigan University and the Westside Barbell Special Strengths Coach Certificate....
About this show
The Conjugate Method, straight from the source. Westside Barbell is where the method was built, and this is the podcast where it gets taught.
Host Mac McFarland sits down with the coaches, athletes, and specialists using conjugate training to build strength and speed in the real world. NFL, UFC, grappling, track, wrestling, and the weight room floor at 705 Hadley Drive.
Tom Barry, Head Coach of Westside Barbell, joins to answer your training questions and break down gym topics. Tom was mentored and chosen by Louie Simmons to carry the method forward after his passing.
Every episode: max effort, dynamic effort, special exercises, and the reasoning behind them. If you coach athletes, train yourself, or want to understand why the Conjugate Method works, this is your show.
New episodes Monthly. Learn the system at westside-barbell.com.
Hosted by
Westside Barbell