CVASPS The Podcast

In this episode of the Central Virginia Sport Performance Podcast, host Jay DeMayo welcomes Priya Sidhu to The Podcast where she shares with us the foundational aspects of building a successful athletic program from scratch. Priya shares her journey in collegiate strength and conditioning, emphasizing the importance of culture, communication, and trust. The discussion covers how to integrate performance staff into team norms, the role of programming in aligning with coaching philosophies, and the impact of modern transfer culture on athlete management. Priya also highlights the significance of competitive training environments and the holistic development of athletes beyond sports. The episode concludes with insights into the challenges and rewards of coaching in today's dynamic environment.Key Topics The importance of culture in strength and conditioning and how it extends beyond physical training Building a program from a blank slate: starting with communication, values, and trus The critical role of the performance staff in establishing team norms and expectations Programming for style of play: speed, agility, and efficiency tailored to coaching philosophies Integrating track and sprint mechanics for basketball performance enhancement The challenges and opportunities of short-term athlete development in college sports Creating competitive training environments to increase motivation and accountability The long-term holistic development of athletes: beyond the sport—life skills and mentality The impact of modern transfer culture and NIL on program building and athlete management This episode emphasizes that entrusting the performance staff with the foundation of culture and athlete development is pivotal for building sustainable, high-functioning teams. Coaches should focus not only on the physical but also on cultivating trust, clarity, and aligned standards, especially amidst the rapid changes in transfer dynamics and athlete expectations.

SummaryIn this episode of the Central Virginia Sport Performance Podcast, host Jay DeMayo welcomes Alan Bishop to explore the art of building resilient teams in sports. They discuss Alan's journey in coaching and the impact of transfer portal dynamics on team building. The conversation emphasizes the importance of cultivating a demanding off-season culture, balancing individualized training with team cohesion, and fostering accountability and resilience. Alan shares insights on leadership, the evolving landscape of coaching, and the role of relationships in athlete success. The episode concludes with reflections on the challenges and rewards of coaching in today's dynamic environment.Key topics Impact of transfer portal dynamics on team building Cultivating a demanding off-season culture Balancing individualized training with team cohesion Accountability and norms in performance Developing mental toughness and resilience Implementing progressive challenges in training Creating an environment that attracts the right fit Leadership and coaching relationships in athlete success Evolving landscape of coaching and program management Building relationships that foster growth Timestamps00:00 - Introduction to Houston program success and coach Alan Bishop 02:04 - How portal day influences team roster construction 03:57 - Balancing transfer influences with athlete development 04:55 - Importance of exercise transferability 06:24 - Tailoring training for individual needs 07:45 - Margins between successful training and overtraining 08:21 - Significance of a demanding off-season 09:28 - Transfer as training maturity 10:22 - Effects of season length and planning 11:48 - Incorporating isometrics and regenerative strategies 12:46 - Well-thought-out programming aligned with philosophy 13:43 - Navigating coaching changes and adaptation 14:37 - Managing player stress and recovery 15:42 - Impact of offseason programming on cohesion 16:11 - Building relationships amidst challenges 17:09 - Relationship building in coaching and loyalty 18:36 - Purposeful decision-making and communication 19:53 - Approachability and safe environment for development 20:26 - Offseason culture and recruitment transparency 22:11 - Setting high standards and accountability 23:35 - Culture of ownership through team efforts 25:29 - Team conditioning and collective identity 26:12 - Challenging athletes to reinforce ownership 27:02 - Setting clear, measurable standards 28:02 - Norms for accountability and routines 29:01 - Data-driven conditioning and accountability 30:49 - Courage in coaching—pushing comfort zones 33:49 - Challenges creating shared ownership 35:07 - Management of trophies, resilience, and expectations 36:02 - Opportunities to overcome adversity 36:57 - Balancing results with development 37:27 - Impact of a demanding head coach 38:55 - Role of luck, relationships, and staffing 40:21 - Insights on mental toughness and careers 41:19 - Future guest suggestions 43:11 - Importance of relationship-building and program fit 43:40 - Future conversations with coaching minds 44:05 - Closing thoughts: learning and mentorshipAdditional Notes Emphasize building a culture rooted in accountability and shared goals. Recognize challenges in recruiting, retention, and mental health. Encourage adaptability, data-informed, and player-centered coaching

In this episode, Bri Brown shares her unique journey from being a soccer player to becoming a basketball strength coach, and the lessons she's learned along the way. We delve into the importance of foundational training principles, how sports science and data influence her coaching, and strategies to educate athletes about the "why" behind their training.Key Topics: Bri Brown's transition from soccer to basketball coaching and her career trajectory (Southern Utah University, Utah State, Houston, Pittsburgh, Miami) The impact of soccer background on basketball strength and conditioning—timing, angles, and spatial awareness How general movement principles translate across different sports and athlete populations The influence of polyquin systems and the emphasis on general movements and system-based training The importance of establishing core training principles and adapting them over time Strategies for educating athletes on the "why" behind training methods and fostering trust and understanding The role of relationship-building and communication in effective coaching Reflection on evolution in coaching approaches—balancing foundational principles with nuanced adjustments Insights into the use of data, sports science, and return-to-play strategies in athlete development The value of inquisitiveness among female athletes and encouraging questions for continuous improvement

In this episode, Jeff Oliver shares his philosophy on coaching, athlete development, and effective communication, offering insights rooted in over 35 years of experience. Whether you're a seasoned coach or just starting out, Jeff's approach emphasizes intentionality, adaptability, and building meaningful relationships. We also get the podcast debut of Bubba, our bulldog beagle mix, sorry for that.Main Topics: The importance of execution and accountability in training programs How to foster communication and confidence in athletes and interns Building flexible training plans that adapt to athlete needs and program constraints The significance of intent and effort over complex exercises Evolving as a coach through mentorship, collaboration, and self-awareness Crafting a shared understanding of key concepts like "fit" in training Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction and Jeff Oliver's coaching philosophy02:10 - The "needle mover": alignment and intensity in training04:06 - Evolving coaching approaches for better execution06:43 - Developing athlete confidence through voice and presence08:18 - The role of accountability and team culture09:28 - Building relationships with sport coaches for program success11:19 - Flexibility in program design and working within coaches' biases13:44 - Redefining "fit": aligning training with athlete and coach goals15:20 - The importance of soft skills, vulnerability, and program ownership16:43 - Lessons learned from mentorship and innovation in training20:05 - Encouraging curiosity and fresh perspectives in young coaches22:08 - Creative problem-solving during multiple-team training sessions24:25 - Strategies to instill intent and focus in young athletes27:12 - The art of teaching effort and quality over complexity28:42 - The value of genuine relationships and long-term athlete development30:56 - Who would Jeff like to hear from? A look into leadership and influence in sports32:23 - Insights into successful program turnarounds and leadership lessons34:17 - Closing thoughts and future connectionsSpecial Note:Always focus on intent and effort—these are the core drivers behind athlete performance and effective coaching. Jeff's experience underscores that adaptability, relationship-building, and clarity in purpose lead to sustainable success in sports training. 

This episode features a deep dive into athletic development, focusing on volleyball training, physical progression, and the importance of technical skill. Jay DeMayo sits down with Anthony Cockrell from SMU to explore how targeted training impacts performance and how coaches can leverage biomechanics and resourcefulness to optimize athlete potential.Key Topics Anthony Cockrill’s journey from basketball to volleyball and the impact of resourceful coaching The value of managing multiple teams at the collegiate level for skill and leadership development The importance of interpersonal skills in coaching and resource management Differences in physical versus technical skill development across sports The significance of genetics and biomechanics in training high jump and volleyball athletes Progression and application of jump height training through biomechanics and technical skill How movement efficiency and passive structures like the stretch shortening cycle influence performance Strategies for optimizing training with limited resources and short communication windows with staff Recognizing skill gaps versus physical talent in jump performance assessments The macro growth of volleyball as a sport and its implications for training investment Time Stamps00:00 - Intro and overview of the episode’s focus on athletic development and volleyball-specific training00:45 - Anthony’s background, career transition from basketball to volleyball, and coaching philosophy01:42 - Managing multiple teams at UMBC and the value of diverse coaching experiences04:54 - From managing six teams to specialized roles; key takeaway on interpersonal skills and quick communication05:34 - Building teams and programming based on real-world experience; the influence on current coaching practices06:52 - The importance of communication skills and resourcefulness in coaching success07:50 - How efficiency in communication and resource use boosts coaching influence08:48 - Recognizing skill gaps through assessments; physical ability vs. technical proficiency in jump performance10:55 - Focus on physical versus technical training in volleyball and how that affects performance outcomes12:36 - The significance of physical attributes in volleyball, recruiting, and game strategy14:50 - Shifting impact in basketball versus volleyball; quantifying physical and skill impacts17:18 - The macro growth of volleyball and why investing in physical and technical development is crucial17:35 - Deep dive into jump height progression, biomechanics, and training development19:06 - Applying biomechanics, strength deficits, and the influence of genetics in athletic potential21:03 - The role of technical skill and efficiency in jumping and movement; lessons from track and field22:29 - Genetics and physical ceilings—especially relevant for female athletes—and recruiting strategies23:46 - Integrating physical and technical training for superior jumping performance26:56 - The importance of passive structures and movement efficiency over raw effort for sustained performance28:37 - Distinguishing technical from physical issues in jump performance, especially approach vs. vertical30:25 - Wrap-up, inspiration for future guests, and final appreciationResources & Links Deep Dive into Biomechanics by Tim Karlen (replace with actual link) Bishop’s training methods at Houston Natalia Vorkoschansky’s work in jumping spectrum SMU Athletics University of Miami Athletic Training

In this episode of the Central Virginia Sport Performance Podcast, host Jay DeMayo sits down with Tyler Janota, the basketball strength and conditioning coach at Penn State. Tyler shares his unique journey from being a football player to becoming a prominent figure in basketball strength coaching. The conversation delves into Tyler's early career experiences, including his transformative internships at Baylor and Texas, which pivoted his focus from football to basketball.Tyler emphasizes the importance of authenticity and being genuine in coaching, highlighting how these qualities help build trust and strong relationships with athletes and coaching staff. He discusses the evolving role of a strength coach, particularly in adapting training protocols to accommodate the rapid roster changes and transfer culture prevalent in college sports today.The episode also explores Tyler's strategies for cultivating confidence and leadership among young coaches, addressing the challenges of imposter syndrome, and the significance of aligning with head coaches to ensure program success. Tyler shares his insights on the balance between maintaining traditional training methods and integrating new technologies and social media influences into athlete development.Throughout the discussion, Tyler underscores the importance of athlete recovery, holistic care, and fostering a culture of accountability and fun within the team. He reflects on the challenges and rewards of coaching in today's fast-paced environment, where the ability to adapt and connect with athletes on a personal level is more crucial than ever.The episode concludes with Tyler's thoughts on the future of strength and conditioning in collegiate sports, emphasizing the need for continuous learning and adaptation to meet the demands of modern athletic programs.Chapter List: (0:00) - Introduction and Tyler Janota’s Background (1:26) - Transition from Northern Kentucky to Penn State (2:22) - Internships and Career Shifts (3:46) - Mentorship and Career Transformations (4:43) - Building Relationships in Basketball Coaching (5:41) - High-Major Roles and Confidence Building (7:40) - Core Coaching Principles (8:41) - Overcoming Imposter Syndrome (10:22) - Trusting Relationships with Head Coaches (11:50) - Adapting to New Normals and Program Evolution (13:21) - Collaboration and Training Alignment (14:37) - Authenticity and Vulnerability in Coaching (16:34) - Program Sustainability and Longevity (17:48) - Confidence and Self-Identity in Coaching (19:33) - In-Season vs. Off-Season Training Focus (21:22) - Transfer Culture and Roster Turnover (23:05) - Training Execution and Progress (25:56) - Athlete Development Beyond the Court (27:45) - Impact of Transfer Portal and Player Development (30:10) - Cultural Fit and Athlete Buy-In (33:10) - Off-Season Growth Planning (35:16) - Building Relationships and Changing Lives

In this episode of the Central Virginia Sport Performance Podcast, host Jay DeMayo welcomes Nick Michael  from Loyola Chicago. The discussion begins with Nick's journey from playing Division III basketball to his current role, highlighting his experiences in Europe and his transition into coaching. Nick emphasizes the value of doing what others won't, focusing on the little things, and the importance of measuring performance to drive training decisions. He shares personal anecdotes about his career, including pivotal moments that shaped his approach to coaching, such as his proactive efforts to secure a position by demonstrating initiative and willingness to help.The conversation delves into the art of coaching, where Nick discusses the balance between meeting athletes where they are and pushing them to excel. He reflects on the significance of authenticity in coaching, sharing how being true to oneself fosters respect and buy-in from athletes. Nick also talks about the challenges of maintaining motivation and respect during tough times, offering advice on how to approach personal work with determination and respect for others.Throughout the episode, Jay and Nick explore the evolving language and practices in coaching, touching on how traditional concepts are being reframed with modern terminology. They conclude with Nick's recommendations for future podcast guests, underscoring the wealth of knowledge and expertise within the coaching community.This episode provides valuable insights into the world of sports performance and coaching, offering listeners practical advice and inspiration from Nick Michael's experiences and philosophy.Takeaways Nick Michael emphasizes the importance of building relationships with athletes. The transition from coaching to strength and conditioning can be challenging but rewarding. Empathy for players is crucial for effective coaching. Data measurement is essential for tracking athlete performance. Small actions can significantly impact team culture and accountability. The eye test remains a valuable tool in coaching despite advancements in technology. Coaches must adapt their communication styles to connect with different athletes. Respect and positive reinforcement are vital during tough times. Utilizing technology can enhance training effectiveness and athlete development. Authenticity in coaching fosters trust and respect from players Chapters00:00 Introduction to Strength and Conditioning in Basketball01:26 Nick Michael's Journey to Loyola Chicago03:21 The Importance of Player Experience in Coaching06:44 Transitioning from Coaching to Strength and Conditioning09:05 The Catalyst for Nick's Career13:25 The Value of Little Things in Coaching15:39 Modeling Behavior for Young Athletes17:23 Building Relationships and Culture in Coaching18:47 Measuring Performance: The Use of Technology21:46 Interpreting Data to Drive Training Decisions25:38 The Art of Coaching: Balancing Athlete Needs29:53 The Importance of Authenticity in Coaching31:54 Conclusion and Future Guests on the Podcast

In this episode, Jay DeMayo sits down with Robert “Handy” Handerhan, a deeply experienced strength coach whose journey spans over 27 years of coaching at the highest levels of college basketball. Handy reveals the core mindset that transformed his coaching—from leveraging deep networks of mentors and peers to distilling training down to three fundamental ways to get stronger: move heavier, move faster, move more.You’ll discover:The importance of coaching in its purest form—knowing the athlete, technique, and the right doseHow legendary influences like Louis Simmons and Buddy Morris shaped a practical, results-driven philosophyThe real value behind traditional KPIs: availability, body composition, and capacity for work—and why they outperform high-tech solutionsHow to adapt training and rehab for different environments, from suburban gyms to city arenasWhy simplicity and coaching intelligence are still king in an era obsessed with data and gadgetsThis conversation isn’t just about training routines—it’s about the timeless art of effective coaching, understanding human biomechanics, and building a network that elevates everyone. Whether you’re a coach, athlete, or performance enthusiast, you’ll come away with actionable insights to elevate your approach and stay ahead in an ever-changing game. Perfect for those hungry to deepen their understanding of athlete development and the core principles that last decades.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Handy and His Journey02:48 The Evolution of Strength Coaching05:46 Influences and Inspirations in Strength Training08:41 Adapting Training Methods for Different Athletes11:52 Key Performance Indicators in Strength Training14:43 The Role of Technology in Coaching17:47 The Importance of Coaching and Mentorship20:44 Final Thoughts and Future Aspirations

In this episode of the Central Virginia Sport Performance Podcast, host Jay DeMayo welcomes Paul Woelmer, a strength coach at the University of Rhode Island. Paul shares his journey from a young athlete to a professional strength coach, detailing his experiences at various institutions, including Indiana University, the University of Alabama, and Holy Cross. He discusses the importance of learning from failures, building team culture, and the significance of personal development in coaching. Paul emphasizes the need for consistency, humility, and creativity in coaching, while also sharing memorable anecdotes from his career. The conversation highlights the value of embracing one's unique story and the lessons learned through various coaching experiences.TakeawaysPaul's journey began with a passion for sports and strength training.He learned valuable lessons from his early internship experiences.Consistency and authenticity are key traits for successful coaching.Building relationships and setting standards are crucial for team culture.Creativity in warmups can enhance team bonding and performance.Embracing failure leads to personal and professional growth.The importance of being a humble learner in the coaching profession.Transcendent moments in training can teach valuable life lessons.Paul's coaching philosophy is influenced by his diverse experiences.He emphasizes the significance of faith, family, and pushing personal limits.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Paul Woelmer01:13 Paul's Early Life and Introduction to Strength Training05:34 Internship Experiences and Learning from Mentors09:24 Transitioning to Professional Strength Coaching12:45 In-Season Training and Professional Development15:43 Coaching Philosophy and Building Relationships21:19 Lessons from Various Coaching Stops23:56 Implementing Standards and Team Culture26:02 Rediscovering the Past: Lessons from the 1990s27:46 The Journey of Growth: Learning from Mistakes30:44 Creative Solutions: The Crib Project32:22 Pregame Rituals: Theatrical Warm-Ups38:46 Embracing Individual Stories: The Transcendent Rep45:32 Humility and Growth: Lessons for Young Coaches

SummaryIn this episode of the Central Virginia Sport Performance Podcast, host Jay DeMayo welcomes Leo Stern, a rising strength coach in college basketball. Leo shares his journey from Tokyo to the U.S., detailing his passion for the weight room and how it led him to coaching. He discusses his experiences at various institutions, the importance of building relationships with players and staff, and his evolving philosophy on warm-ups and training. Leo emphasizes the significance of creating a positive environment and adapting to the needs of his athletes, while also reflecting on the collaborative nature of modern coaching. The conversation concludes with Leo's insights on the future of coaching and the importance of mentorship.TakeawaysLeo Stern's journey from Tokyo to coaching in the U.S.The importance of building relationships with players and staff.Adapting training programs to meet individual athlete needs.Creating a positive and fun environment in the weight room.The evolution of warm-up routines and their significance.Understanding the balance between authority and collaboration in coaching.The impact of NIL on the coach-player dynamic.Learning from each coaching stop and its unique challenges.The role of mentorship in professional development.The future of coaching as a collaborative effort. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Leo Stern00:57 Leo's Journey to Coaching03:54 Lessons from Coaching Stops05:45 Transitioning to Fordham University07:55 Building Relationships with Players11:50 Warm-Up Philosophy and Evolution12:44 Weight Room Dynamics and Programming14:56 Controlled Chaos in Training19:51 The Future of Coaching and Collaboration23:37 Reflections on Coaching Evolution26:48 Closing Thoughts and Future Guests

In this engaging episode of the Central Virginia Sport Performance Podcast, host Jay DeMayo sits down with Justin Rey, a distinguished strength coach at LaSalle University. The conversation delves into Justin's professional journey, beginning with his foundational experiences at St. Joe's University, where he was mentored by influential figures like Brian Bingaman and Ben Steenrod. Justin reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped his career, including his time with the University of Miami and the Philadelphia 76ers, emphasizing the critical role of networking and relationship-building in advancing within the sports industry.Justin shares his philosophy on time management and discipline, underscoring their importance in achieving success as a coach. He discusses the necessity of being adaptable in the ever-evolving landscape of sports coaching, where continuous learning and embracing new methodologies are vital. The episode also explores the challenges of athlete retention in today's dynamic sports environment, highlighting the impact of external factors such as the transfer portal and NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals.Throughout the discussion, Justin emphasizes the value of maintaining strong connections with athletes and fellow coaches, advocating for open communication and trust as foundational elements of effective coaching. He shares personal anecdotes and lessons learned from his interactions with various head coaches, illustrating how these experiences have informed his approach to leadership and mentorship.The episode concludes with insights into the future of sports coaching, as Justin and Jay discuss the importance of being a consistent and reliable presence for athletes, while also navigating the complexities of modern sports dynamics. As Jay aptly puts it, "that's all you need to know about our vocation," encapsulating the core principles and values that define the coaching profession. This conversation offers valuable takeaways for aspiring coaches and sports professionals, providing a comprehensive look at the skills and mindset required to thrive in the competitive world of sports coaching. Make sure you tap in to Reps and Real Talk on Spotify here: https://open.spotify.com/show/2UYOzI2zGLfxRD5wW5Jqkd?si=6ac078203e204919Takeaways Networking is crucial for career advancement in sports. Time management and discipline are key for success. Adaptability is essential in the evolving sports industry. Building strong relationships with athletes and coaches is vital. Continuous learning and education are important for coaches. Retaining athletes is a challenge in today's sports landscape. Understanding different sports cultures can enhance coaching. Effective communication builds trust with athletes. Coaches should be consistent and reliable for their teams. The sports industry requires wearing many hats and multitasking. Sound bites"Networking is crucial in sports." "Time management is key." "Adaptability is essential." "Build strong relationships." "Continuous learning is vital." "Retaining athletes is challenging." "Understand different sports cultures." "Effective communication builds trust." "Be consistent and reliable." "Wear many hats in sports."Chapters00:16 Introduction to Justin Rey01:50 Justin's Journey in Coaching05:32 The Importance of Networking and Relationships08:14 Time Management and Discipline in Coaching11:26 Evolving as a Coach Through Different Leadership16:43 Adapting to Change in Coaching Environments23:08 Navigating Player Retention and Team Dynamics29:30 Advice for Young Coaches30:00 Closing Thoughts and Future Guests

In this episode of the Central Virginia Sport Performance Podcast, host Jay DeMayo welcomes Cliff Spiller to the Atlantic 10 and to The Podcast. Cliff shares his journey from working with top NBA teams like the Philadelphia 76ers and the Utah Jazz to his current role at Hawk Hill. He emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence in coaching, drawing from his experiences with renowned coaches and athletes. Cliff discusses his holistic approach to athlete development, focusing on building daily habits and routines that extend beyond the court. He also touches on the impact of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) on college athletes and the evolving conversations around financial literacy and career longevity. Throughout the conversation, Cliff's passion for coaching and commitment to athlete well-being shine through, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in sports performance and coaching philosophy. Make sure you hop over to Instagram and give him a follow @cliffspillercscs takeaways Cliff Spiller has over 10 years of coaching experience at the highest level. Emotional intelligence is crucial for effective coaching. Building daily habits is essential for athlete development. NIL has changed the dynamics of coaching and athlete motivation. Constant communication with athletes enhances their understanding and compliance. Understanding athletes as individuals is key to effective coaching. Small changes in training can lead to significant long-term benefits. Cliff emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to athlete development. Coaches should focus on the 'why' behind training protocols. Cliff's journey reflects the importance of learning from various coaching environments. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Cliff Spiller01:18 Cliff's Journey in Strength and Conditioning03:57 Learning from the Best: Influences on Coaching Philosophy10:40 The Importance of Emotional Intelligence in Coaching11:53 Establishing Presence in a New Environment18:01 Building Daily Habits and Routines28:12 Navigating NIL and Financial Conversations with Athletes35:11 Closing Thoughts and Future Aspirations

In this engaging conversation, Jay DeMayo and Daniel Roose discuss the unique journey of a strength coach in college basketball, focusing on the importance of mentorship, building systems for success, and the need for fun in coaching. Roose shares insights on individualized training approaches, the significance of work-life balance, and the value of developing future coaches. The discussion highlights the evolving landscape of college sports and the critical role of strength and conditioning in athlete development.TakeawaysDaniel Roose emphasizes the importance of mentorship in developing young strength coaches.Having a contract that answers to administrators provides job security and autonomy.Building systems and processes allows for smoother transitions between coaching staff.The culture of returning former players enhances the training environment.Individualized training approaches are crucial for older athletes with extensive training backgrounds.Fun and enjoyment in coaching are essential for long-term success.Work-life balance is a critical aspect of sustaining a career in coaching.Understanding athletes' needs and providing autonomy leads to better performance.The landscape of college basketball has evolved, requiring adaptability from coaches.Creating a supportive environment for athletes fosters a positive culture. Chapters00:00 The Unique Journey of a Strength Coach05:46 Building Systems and Processes for Success08:29 The Importance of Mentorship in Coaching11:28 Creating a Culture of Return and Involvement14:19 Finding the Right Fit: Hiring Young Coaches17:24 The Evolution of Training Approaches20:18 Balancing Work and Life in Coaching23:05 The Value of Fun in Coaching26:09 Learning from Experience and Growth29:06 Looking Ahead: Future Guests and Conversations

SummaryIn this episode of the Central Virginia Sport Performance Podcast, host Jay DeMayo welcomes Keon Marsh from George Mason University. They discuss Keon's journey in coaching, his evolving philosophy, and the importance of assessing players to tailor training programs. Keon shares insights on building standards and expectations within the team, the impact of the transfer portal, and the significance of empowering athletes beyond the weight room. The conversation also touches on the importance of building relationships within the coaching staff and the role of fun in creating a positive training environment. Keon concludes by suggesting future guests for the podcast.TakeawaysKeon Marsh shares his journey from intern to strength coach.The importance of a coaching journal for continuous improvement.Adapting training programs based on player assessments.Building a culture of grit and toughness within the team.The transfer portal allows for reinvention in coaching.Empowering athletes involves education on nutrition and recovery.Building trust within the coaching staff takes time and communication.Fun in training enhances relationships with players.The role of standards in driving performance outcomes.Coaching is a process that requires patience and adaptability.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Keon Marsh and His Journey03:06 Evolving Coaching Philosophy and Programming07:02 Assessing Players and Tailoring Training11:49 Building Standards and Expectations13:03 The Impact of the Transfer Portal16:57 Empowering Athletes Beyond the Weight Room19:03 Developing Relationships Within the Coaching Staff22:49 The Importance of Fun in Training29:54 Future Guests and Closing ThoughtsKeywordsKeon Marsh, coaching philosophy, strength training, player assessment, transfer portal, athlete empowerment, coaching relationships, fun in sports, performance training, basketball coaching

In this episode of the Central Virginia Sport Performance Podcast, host Jay DeMayo sits down with Casey Cathrall from the University of Dayton. They discuss the impact of AI on content creation, the evolution of strength and conditioning in college sports, and the importance of building foundational routines for athletes. Casey shares insights from his career journey, including his time at La Tech and his current role at Dayton, emphasizing the significance of adaptability and maintaining a fun, engaging environment for athletes.KeywordsAI, content creation, strength and conditioning, college sports, athlete development, foundational routines, adaptability, fun environment, University of Dayton, La TechTakeaways Building foundational routines is key for athletes. Adaptability is crucial in strength and conditioning. Maintaining a fun environment enhances athlete engagement. Casey Cathrall's career journey is inspiring. La Tech has a strong legacy in strength coaching. University of Dayton fosters athlete development. Transfer portal impacts training strategies. Consistency is challenging in the transfer era. Fun and autonomy are vital for athlete buy-in.

In this episode of the Central Virginia Sport Performance Podcast, host Jay DeMayo welcomes Ty Curtis, the Assistant Director of Strength and Conditioning for Olympic Sports at Florida Atlantic University. Ty shares his career journey from Syracuse University to Fort Bragg, and now to FAU, discussing the challenges and insights gained from working in both collegiate and tactical settings. The conversation delves into the importance of coaching the person, not just the athlete, and the value of building genuine connections with athletes to enhance their performance and personal growth.Take Aways:- Ty Curtis emphasizes the importance of coaching the person, not just the athlete. - Building genuine connections with athletes enhances their performance and personal growth. - Ty's career journey includes experiences in both collegiate and tactical settings. - The transition from tactical to collegiate coaching offers unique challenges and insights. - Coaching requires understanding the underlying motivations of athletes. - Ty values honesty and proactivity in his coaching philosophy. - The importance of being adaptable and open to new experiences in coaching. - Ty's respect for the military influences his coaching style and perspective. - The role of strength and conditioning in athlete development is multifaceted. - Ty encourages athletes to face challenges head-on and learn from them.

In this conversation, Lily Griffith emphasizes the importance of explaining the rationale behind training exercises to athletes. By connecting the training to their performance goals, she fosters better understanding and buy-in from the athletes, ultimately enhancing their relationship and commitment to the training process.takeaways It's important to give athletes the reason behind their training. Understanding the 'why' helps athletes connect with their training. Communicating the benefits of exercises increases athlete buy-in. Building relationships with athletes is crucial for effective coaching. Using data in training should be explained to athletes. Athletes are more engaged when they see the relevance of their training. Power production and resiliency are key focuses in training. Effective communication enhances the training experience. Athletes need to understand how training impacts their performance. Investing time in explanation fosters trust and commitment.

In this engaging conversation, Jay DeMayo hosts Daniel Marshall, a seasoned strength coach, to discuss his journey through various successful basketball programs and the unique lessons learned from each. Daniel shares insights from his time at Arizona State University, San Diego State, and his experiences with renowned coaches like Dan Hurley and Bobby Hurley. The discussion delves into the importance of development, the different coaching philosophies, and how these have shaped his approach to training athletes. Daniel emphasizes the significance of adapting training methods to suit individual needs and the value of maintaining a competitive spirit in training sessions.Key Takeaways: Coaching Philosophies:Daniel highlights the distinct coaching styles of Dan Hurley, Bobby Hurley, and Dutch, emphasizing the importance of accountability, player empowerment, and patience. Development Focus:The conversation underscores the need for programs that prioritize player development and respect for all team members. Adapting Training Methods:Daniel discusses the evolution of his training methods, moving from traditional strength exercises to incorporating machines like leg presses and belt squats for efficiency. Importance of Creativity:Finding creative ways to engage athletes, especially those resistant to traditional methods, is crucial for their development. Competitive Spirit:Maintaining a competitive environment in training sessions helps athletes push their limits and improve performance. Recruitment Strategies:The importance of recruiting players who fit the program's style and philosophy is emphasized, with honesty during the recruitment process being key. Track and Field Influence:Daniel's background in track and field significantly influences his training approach, focusing on applying strength through sprints, jumps, and throws. Balancing Skill and Strength:While learning the skill of exercises like squats is important, achieving a training stimulus and adaptation is equally crucial. Outdoor Training Days:Daniel describes the structure of outdoor training days, which focus on speed and power without inducing fatigue. Long-term Athlete Development:The conversation highlights the importance of long-term development, with a focus on building strength that translates into athleticism. Chapters: Introduction and Background (0:00 - 5:00):Jay introduces Daniel and they discuss his background and current role at San Diego State. Coaching Philosophies and Lessons (5:01 - 15:00):Daniel shares insights from working with different coaches and the lessons learned. Training Methods and Adaptations (15:01 - 25:00):Discussion on the evolution of training methods and the influence of track and field. Recruitment and Development (25:01 - 35:00):The importance of recruitment strategies and maintaining a focus on player development. Conclusion and Future Guests (35:01 - End):Jay wraps up the conversation and Daniel suggests future podcast guests.

In this episode, Jay DeMayo and Derek Savage discuss the unique dynamics and challenges of strength and conditioning at Colorado College. They explore Derek's journey from volunteer to director, the importance of building athlete buy-in, and the innovative triangle meetings that foster collaboration among coaches, medical staff, and strength coaches. The conversation highlights the significance of mentorship, trust, and communication in achieving success in collegiate sports.Takeaways Building strong relationships is key to athlete buy-in. Mentorship plays a crucial role in career development. Triangle meetings enhance collaboration and communication. Trust and communication are vital in team dynamics. Derek's journey from volunteer to director is inspiring. Colorado College's unique block plan presents challenges. Collaboration with medical staff is essential for success. Attention to detail is critical in strength coaching. Networking and building connections are important. Adapting to different coaching styles is necessary. Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction and Background 00:00:00 Derek's Journey to Director 00:00:00 Building Athlete Buy-In 00:00:00 Triangle Meetings and Collaboration 00:00:00 Mentorship and Trust 00:00:00 Challenges and Successes at Colorado College

In this conversation, Michael Chatman and Jay DeMayo discuss a pivotal moment in a basketball game, focusing on the energy and mindset shifts that come with performance. They reflect on the importance of embracing new energy and the impact of significant plays on team dynamics.TakeawaysThe first play of the game can set the tone.Energy and mindset are crucial in performance.Embracing new energy can lead to better outcomes.Players evolve, and so should their roles.A memorable dunk can change the game's momentum.Team dynamics are influenced by individual performances.Humor can lighten the pressure in competitive situations.Expectations can shift based on past performances.The importance of wanting the best version of teammates.A positive mindset can lead to greater success.

In this episode, Jay DeMayo welcomes Cam Davidson back to the podcast to discuss his journey through various coaching roles, including his recent transition to NC State. They explore the importance of family dynamics in coaching, the evolution of training methods, and the philosophy of high challenge and high support in athlete development. Cam shares insights from his experiences at different institutions and how they shaped his coaching style, emphasizing the need for adaptability and continuous learning in the field.TakeawaysCam Davidson discusses his transition from Colorado to NC State.Family dynamics play a crucial role in coaching decisions.High challenge and high support are essential for athlete development.Training methods must evolve based on the athlete's needs and environment.Cam emphasizes the importance of collaboration among coaching staff.Lessons learned from previous coaching stops inform current practices.The significance of creating an enjoyable training environment for athletes.Adaptability is key in coaching different sports and levels.Cam's training philosophy has evolved over the years, incorporating various methodologies.The podcast highlights the importance of mentorship and networking in coaching. Chapters00:00 Cam's Journey: From Penn State to NC State06:17 The Importance of Family in Coaching10:10 Lessons Learned from Different Coaching Environments18:12 High Challenge, High Support: A Coaching Philosophy21:28 Finding Balance in Coaching and Life24:25 The Evolution of Coaching Styles31:02 Adapting Training Methods for Different Sports35:56 Continuous Growth and Learning in Coaching

In the return of The Podcast, Jay DeMayo and Greg Goldin discuss the evolution of performance coaching in basketball, focusing on Greg's journey through various programs and his partnership with Coach Wade. They explore the importance of building trust, establishing standards over culture, and adapting to the changing landscape of college athletics, particularly with the introduction of NIL. Greg shares insights from his diverse experiences, including working with the DOD and at Penn State, and emphasizes the need for authentic relationships with athletes.TakeawaysGreg's journey reflects significant growth in performance coaching.Building trust with the head coach is crucial for career advancement.Establishing standards is more effective than focusing on culture.Authentic relationships with players are essential in the NIL era.Lessons from military organization can enhance athletic programs.The importance of making systems repeatable for sustained success.Navigating the transfer portal requires adaptability and quick relationship building.Greg's experiences highlight the value of diverse coaching environments.Effective communication is key in strength and conditioning roles.The evolution of coaching roles requires a shift from hard skills to soft skills.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background03:23 Evolution of Greg and Coach Wade09:51 Lessons from Diverse Experiences16:42 Building Standards Over Culture25:16 Navigating the NIL Landscape33:36 Outro.mp4As always we truly appreciate you and all you do for CVASPS. If you enjoy the show please help us out by doing 3 things: 1) please subscribe to the show on your favorite podcast platform, 2) if you could leave us a review I would be so thankful, and 3) as with all our content, if you know anyone who could find value in this episode please share the show with them. Thank YOU for all you do for us here at CVASPS and we will see you in the next episode!

On this week’s episode I got to sit down and discuss the preparation process with basketball players with a coach that has been on my “wish list” for guests to have on The Podcast, David Deets. David has had a really awesome voyage that to his position now at Tulsa, and this has helped him formulate a unique philosophy and mindset when it comes to all aspects of preparation. Throughout the 30-minute discussion Coach Deets and I get into:  1)     Where the origin of his passion for the warm up aspect of perpetration, but for training and practice came from2)     The value of keeping similar patterns in the warm up, but changing the movements as often as possible 3)     Examples of how he prescribes these variations including specific examples of some of these patterns4)     Why and where we find value in barefoot training5)     What training them for the sport not the numbers mean to him Such a great conversation with a fantastic practitioner who has a unique perspective on developing the basketball players, and a discussion that, quite frankly, has made me have some second thoughts about some things that I do, specifically with our daily practice warm ups. Coach Deets is really doing great work, and I’m so grateful for his open and candid sharing today. Make sure you give him a follow on The Gram at @ coachdeets23 and on the Twitter-sphere at @coachdeets. I truly hope you took as much from this discussion as I did, and if so, and could please help me out with three HUGE favors I’d be super grateful. If you could please: 1) share this with a colleague that would find value in the episode; 2) subscribe to the show on your favorite podcast platform; and 3) while you’re there, please leave us a 5-star review. Thank you so much for helping us grow The Podcast.  

Today we have a really awesome discussion about connecting the physical aspects within our vocation and how it can be related back to the technical tactical side of the games we work in with Federico Pizzuto. Throughout this sensational 30-plus minute chat, Federico and I get into:  1)     The model that he utilizes when connecting the technical tactical side with the physical preparation of the athletes.2)     What he’s looking at to build out his progressions, and the ways it impacts buy in with the players3)     Where autonomy for the players fits in his perpetration and RTP programming.4)     Video’s impact on communicating the goals and objectives of the program 5)     Simple ways he has found success building out individualization in his programming So much great insight from a practitioner working at the highest level, this episode is full of great, practical, real world tactics that we can all utilize (or adapt from) with our return to play progressions. I can’t thank Federico enough for being so open to sharing with us today because this was absolutely fantastic. Make sure you keep up with what he’s doing up in Columbus by following him on IG @federicocapacci. If you found value in the show and could do me three huge favors I’d really appreciate it if you would: 1) share the show with a colleague, this is the best way to spread the word; 2) subscribe to the show on your favorite podcast player to stay up to date with all our shows; 3) please leave us a review to help others find our show when they search for strength and conditioning based podcasts.  

This week I’m fired up to sit down and talk conditioning with Tim Kettenring. Tim has been doing some awesome work helping coaches have a better understanding of how they can build bigger engines with the Conditioning Cohort. Throughout the great 30-plus minute chat, Tim and I get into The areas of physiology that he feels are overlooked by coaches and where coaches can look to have a better understanding of what the “cohort” is trying to teach. What are some of the driving questions behind his deeper dive into energy system development that has led to his desire to help coaches have a better understanding of these physiological adaptations. Reasons behind some of the “standoffishness” towards low intensity conditioning work, and how we could possibly counteract those Where the autonomic nervous system fits in their education model, and why it’s so important to understand the basics of ANS physiology and how it relates to conditioning levels and performance. Next steps in progressing conditioning work once the athlete has a “solid base” Ways to make your energy system work be a bit more practical in the team setting A ton of great insight into what Tim is doing with, not just the course but what his training philosophy is and the driving factors behind it. Make sure you give him a follow at @timkettenring on X and tap in for more info on the training program at Conditioningproject.com. Just like all our shows, if you have found value in the show please and could do me three favors I’d greatly appreciate it if you could: 1) share the show with a colleague, this is the best way to spread the word; 2) subscribe to the show on your favorite podcast player to stay up to date with all our shows; 3) please leave us a review to help others find our show when they search for strength and conditioning based podcasts.Who is Tim Kettenring?Tim Kettenring is a 16 year strength and conditioning veteran with experience at every level ofsport. His current role is as the High Performance Director for Nola Gold Rugby of Major LeagueRugby. Tim is also the President of Maverick Human Performance which provides coaching, consultingand education services to athletes and coaches around the world.Prior to his current roles, Tim was the head strength and conditioning coach at LoyolaUniversity-New Orleans for 6 years, director of sports performance at Revolution SportsPerformance for 2 years, and assistant strength and conditioning/sport coach at Holy CrossHigh School for 4 years.

Today I have the pleasure of sitting down and discussing the development of the physical preparation programming for H2F with Carson Randall. Carson is leading the way with the development of the H2F programming, and all of its branches, helping to better prepare the best of the best, the American Soldier. Throughout the greater then 30-minute discussion Carson and I get into:  1)     Where a military background both helps and hinders in the tactical training world2)     Things that coaches need to understand when making the transition to the tactical side3)     How defining terms, or at least coming together on the goals of the higher ups, is a game changer4)     Comfortable lifestyles effect on how they need to program for soldiers, and how it could be a positive for their realm of the profession5)     Making a scalable training system on a grand scale using basic and simple assessments6)     Why general training, is always general, and its supportive nature to the specific, if it’s team sport or the military7)     Educations vital role within boot camp with preparing the soldiers to make better decisions once they’re moved around the world Such and awesome look into a unique training environment, I can’t thank Carson enough for spending the time with us today and being so open and candid in his sharing. Physical preparation for the tactical “athlete” is a realm in our vocation that is growing by the year, and a lot is due to the great work that Carson is doing with H2F, laying the foundation for more strength coaches to build upon. As with all our content, if you found value in the discussion please feel free to share the show with a colleague, and if you haven’t yet, please subscribe to the show on our favorite podcast player to stay up to date with all our shows.

I am elated to welcome Aaron Abraham to The Podcast this week. Aaron is doing some really awesome work up at Eastern Michigan. His voyage to EMU is one that many have looked at and turned their nose up at, but as a guy who started at a Division III school I have a ton of respect for coaches who start at DII and DIII because of the unique perspectives that you can gain at those levels.  1)     Pros of working at a Division II school for a starting point in your professional evolution2)     What the impact of being the son of immigrants on work ethic and humility3)     The leadership role he feels that we can play as a vocation including examples that he utilizes4)     Three terms that he teaches to dictate how the program will progress, that have nothing to do with progressions5)     Advice for coaches who are rotating in internships and could possibly be getting frustrated about it6)     Ways he has found success connecting with other practitioners, and its effect on the projection of his career.  There are so many great lessons that I learned as a DIII strength coach, and I’m so happy to hear a similar story from Aaron. A great voyage to EMU that lead to a great strength coach working in the MAC in college basketball, it really hits close to home with Old Greybeard. Aaron is doing some fantastic work up at EMU, so make sure you give him a follow on x @strengthcoacha and on IG at @strengthcoachabe to keep up with everything he’s got cooking and make sure to sign up for the newsletter while you’re checking out his content! There’s so much value in Aaron’s journey and the lessons he shared today, and I took a ton from this conversation. If you found value in it as well please feel free to share the show with a colleague, and if you haven’t yet, please subscribe to the show on our favorite podcast player to stay up to date with all our shows.

Today I am so excited to welcome Justin Landry to The Podcast. Justin is doing some absolutely great work with the development of basketball players. He’s had a really great path to get him to Atlanta that has molded a unique philosophy with his training. Throughout this aweseome 30-minute conversation Justin and I get into: 1)     Driving factors behind the directions of the programming he utilizes for his athletes2)     Simple evaluations of common sequences that help him drive programming decisions3)    The role of still photos and video in his practice4)    Examples of his progressions in different mobility and stability situations5)    Autonomy’s role in his program6)    What the transfer portal has changed in his programs7)    How he defines functional training, and how that definition impacts how he evaluates and trains his guys8)    Monitoring/Tracking of practice as an evaluation of preparation A great conversation with a fantastic practitioner who has a unique perspective on developing the athlete’s he gets to work with. Justin is really doing great work, and I’m so grateful for his open and candid sharing today. Make sure you give him a follow on The Gram at @jland_perf. I truly hope you took as much from this discussion as I did, and if so, please share this with a colleague that would find value in the episode. Also, if you haven’t subscribed on your favorite podcast platform yet and could do that for us, we would greatly appreciate it.

On this week’s episode of The Podcast I have the pleasure of sitting down and discussing training, nutrition, and the life on the NASCAR Circuit with Ashley Muschiatti. Ashley has a unique background and qualification of being both a Registered Dietitian and Strength and Conditioning Coach, thus qualifying her to both prescribe training and the nutritional requirements for both success in training and performance. The uniqueness of the athlete that she gets to work with, both as a sport but also individually Where each of her “hats” impact decisions with programming daily and in the long term Driving factors behind training and programming decisions Positive aspects of being a licensed nutritionist and registered dietitian and how it works symbiotically with her role as a performance coach How taking this different route in her education could be a great example for younger coaches to increase their marketability What coaches can do when they don’t travel to help best educate their athlete’s on how they can do better for themselves on “game day” Such a cool conversation with an awesome person with a really cool job. This show was an absolute blast for me, so many unique aspects to what Ashley’s practice and the athlete’s she gets to work with, it’s really fascinating to me. I can’t thank her enough for being so open to sharing with us today. To keep up with everything she’s doing make sure you give her a follow over on Instagram at @amuschiatti. I hope you found as much value in the chat as I did, and if so, please help me out by doing three things: 1st, please share this with a colleague that you think would find value in the show, 2nd if you haven’t please subscribe to the show on your favorite podcast player, and 3rd if you could please leave us a review I’d greatly appreciate it.Who is Ashley Muschiatti?Ashley Muschiatti RD, LDN, CSCS is a sports dietitian and certified strength coach who has worked with high school and college athletes, as well as the general public who wants to reach their health and wellness goals. She has experience with body composition and analysis using the BodPod as well as performance nutrition counseling.​She received her B.S. in Exercise Science and B.A. in Spanish Language at Appalachian State University in Boone, NC. During her time at Appalachian State, Ashley was a thrower on the track and field team where she sits high in the school’s All-Time record books. She then went on to attend Delaware State University’s Coordinated Dietetic Program where she became a Registered Dietitian. Throughout her years of education, Ashley completed multiple strength and conditioning and sports nutrition internships at multiple NCAA Division 1 Institutions.​Ashley enjoys helping athletes reach their full potential on and off the field. She combines her experience and knowledge in strength and conditioning and nutrition to help athletes of all ages fuel properly and reach their performance goals.Ashley lives in Charlotte, NC where she is a Performance Specialist with Novant Health Sports Performance.Muschiatti's previous positions include:​ Performance Specialist & Registered Dietitian at Novant Health SportsPerformance Assistant Strength Coach & Nutrition Coordinator at Delaware State University Professional Strength and Conditioning Internships: ​Clemson University Basketball UNC Chapel Hill Olympic Sports Appalachian State University Olympic Sports University of Delaware Football

He’s baaaaccckkkkkk! I am so excited to welcome my good friend Charlie Weingroff back to The Podcast and to introduce him as a presenter at The Seminar. Charlie has been, and always will be, one of the greatest sound boards to me in the world of performance. It doesn’t matter if we are speaking training or rehab (see what I did there), whenever I have a question or an idea about a direction we are thinking, he’s always been a person that provided some of the most constructive insight and thought-provoking questions about the directions we are looking to go in, to help us make better decisions. His track record in working in sport speaks for itself, and his willingness to share and help coaches and therapists learn and grow is second to none. All of this makes him, once again, the perfect addition to the docket this summer, and I couldn’t be happier to welcome him back to RVA this July. Throughout the awesome 60-minute chat Charlie and I get into: 1)    Social media as a tool to help educate coaches and grow as a professional  2)    The line between raining and rehab, and why it may be translucent at best3)    Work places culture’s impact on the success of rehab programs4)    How teamwork, roles, and the hierarchy of positions drive culture in the performance and rehabilitation world.5)    Where he sees the true role of leaderships positions, and how being in business has impacted this6)    A change of perspective that could have a vastly positive impact on your teams’ culture7)    The value of understanding what other people in your department do, while understanding where your role and lines you shouldn’t cost.8)    Safety’s role in professional growth This conversation, as they always are with Charlie, was sensational. I’m so happy to not just have him back on The Podcast, but cannot wait to have him here and back on the docket for The 2024 Edition of The Seminar. He’s always been a mentor and a great friend for as long as I’ve known him, and can’t wait for us all to be able to see him “in action” breaking down his approach to evaluating and programming in his presentation. Also, please let us know if you have a direction for Charlie’s presentation by using the link here:https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1Lc4lTXOtwRxQD_oGlO1B4reVUmbAdhDr3q1Bj9IYMUM/edit?usp=sharing This conversation, just like every conversation I’ve ever had with Charlie has made me take a step back and reevaluate some things we are doing, and I hope it has had the same effect on you. If you found value in the show please help me out with three things: 1st, please share the show with a colleague that would find value in the show; 2nd, if you haven’t subscribed on your favorite podcast platform please do; and 3rd, if you wouldn’t mind leaving us a review on our podcast player of choice I’d truly appreciate it. 

I could not be more fired up to welcome Heather Mason to The Podcast and introduce her as our 5th presenter for this summer edition of The Central Virginia Sport Performance Seminar. Heather is one of the true trailblazers in the field and one of the best people I’ve had the pleasure of interacting with in the world of performance. Her unique experience has help her develop a great system, not just in developing athletes, but also developing the next generations of coaches. Throughout the 30-minute discussion Heather and I get into: 1)     Continuity’s role in building a department.2)     Incentives role in professional development and program growth, and how they have built a model that allows their coaches to have upward growth3)     How individualizing their coaches continuing education has helped drive their entire staff forward4)     The positives and negatives of social media’s role in our vocation5)     Diversifying your educational modalities to help find better ways to be a coach As I said on the show, having Heather on the show and her as on the docket for The Seminar has been a long time coming, and am super grateful for he, not just taking the time to be on the show, but for all she’s done to help drive this profession forward. She has been leading from the front for longer for her entire career, and what she’s doing up in Columbus is no exception to that. I hope you found value in the show, and if you did please feel free to share this episode with a collogue that you feel would enjoy it, and please don’t forget to subscribe and give us a 5-star review on your favorite podcast player. I truly do appreciate it.

Today I am so happy to welcome Dr. Aaron Heishman back to The Podcast and introduce him as our 4th presenter for The 2024 edition of The Central Virginia Sport Performance Seminar. “Heish” is doing some fantastic work in Vegas with the Golden Knights and is researching with the best of the best in the world at their sport. Throughout the 30-minute discussion Dr. Heishman and I get into: 1)     Some of the “challenges” that have reared themselves after the short off season.2)     What is means to be “a fiduciary” in sport, and why it’s vital in situations where you are collecting and utilizing data.3)     Factors that impact what data they’re collecting and the devices/means they’re collecting it4)     Why patience is so important from a science perspective 5)     How vital it is to keep in mind, “what performance is” if we call ourselves performance coaches.6)     The positive value that research in other vocations can have on us as performance coaches I could not be happier to have Heish on the docket this summer and am super grateful for him taking the time to be on the show and, as always, being so open to sharing. He’s truly is doing some awesome work in Vegas and is an absolute wealth of knowledge that’s not just absolutely driving our entire vocation forward by pushing the envelope in the performance monitoring world, but leading from the front with the actual “applied sport science” that he’s practicing. Make sure to give him a follow @aheish11_ on Instagram. I hope you found value in the show, and if you did please feel free to share this episode with a collogue that you feel would enjoy it, and please don’t forget to subscribe and give us a 5-star review on your favorite podcast player. I truly do appreciate it. Who is Aaron Heishman? Aaron is the Head of Sport Science and Reconditioning for the Vegas Golden Knights. He is primarily responsible for directing the sport science initiatives of the organization, as well as leading the implementation of return to play programming for athletes undergoing long-term rehabilitation. Prior to his time with the Golden Knights, he worked as the Assistant Director of Basketball Performance and Sport Scientist at University of Oklahoma. While at OU, Aaron earned his PhD in Exercise Physiology with research focused on athlete monitoring strategies used to evaluate neuromuscular performance and fatigue in basketball players. Before Oklahoma, Aaron worked as the Graduate Assistant for Basketball Performance at the University of Virginia, where he found a passion for trying to bridge the gap between applied performance practices and research in effort to maximize athlete health and performance. 

I could not be more excited to introduce our 3rd presenter for The 2024 edition of The Central Virginia Sport Performance Seminar, Dr. Mike Davis. Mike has one of the most unique thought processes when it comes to performance and rehabilitation that I’ve ever come across. Mike is one of those people who I’ve never had a conversation through any medium that I haven’t walked away and reevaluated something that I’m doing, and that could be professionally or personally. Throughout the fantastic hour discussion Dr. Davis and I get into:1) What it means to be a pursuer of truth2) Collaborations role, both within your staff and with the athletes, and how positive relationships drive improvements in those collaborations3) How performance staffs need to be on the same page, but also need to understand that there needs to be some boundaries to what you’re responsible for4) The value of knowing “why are they here” in all forms of prescription5) What evaluations and systems are set in place to ensure we are providing the proper stressors for each individual situation6) Our definitions of selfish, and how being selfish can be both a pro and a con in professional situations7) History’s role in what we do, and the value in understanding the history of physical culture8) Asking Questions vs Questioning, why it’s misinterpreted and why it can lead to growthI’m so excited to have gotten to catch up Dr. Davis and have him on The Podcast, and cannot wait to have him here for The 2024 Edition of The Seminar, and this back and forth conversation is exactly why. Mike has always been a person who has challenged me to be better in so many different realms of life, and I’m truly grateful for that. Make sure you give him a follow and keep up with Dr. Davis on X @ MikeDavisDPT. This conversation, just like every conversation I have with Mike makes me think a bit differently, and I hope it has had the same effect on you. If you found value in the show please help me out with three things: 1st, please share the show with a colleague that would find value in the show; 2nd, if you haven’t subscribed on your favorite podcast platform please do; and 3rd, if you wouldn’t mind leaving us a review on our podcast player of choice I’d truly appreciate it.

I am so excited to welcome Dr. Ernie Rimer to, not just The Podcast, but to The 2024 Seminar. Dr. Rimer is doing fantastic work for The University of Louisville and his forward-thinking, inquisitive approach, brings a unique perspective on how we can all do better for our athletes with the data that we collect to The Seminar. Throughout the 35-minute discussion Dr. Rimer and I get into: 1)     The importance of systems, especially in difficult times of the year, to help streamline processes to help make the data collected more actionable.2)     Hydration monitoring and prescribing, why it’s important in August, but not JUST important in August.3)     Finding better ways to evaluate what we do to ensure what we are programming for our athletes is actually making the positive impact we believe it is.4)     How to “fast track” knowledge in reference to continuing education, including how valuable he sees the ability to take classed at U of L. I couldn’t be more excited to welcome Dr. Rimer to The Seminar, and so appreciative of his openness on today’s episode of The Podcast. This coming edition of The Seminar’s docket is absoultly awesome and Ernie is a huge part of that. Make sure to give him a follow to keep up with everything he’s got cooking on X and Instagram at @ErnieRimer. I really hope you enjoyed the discussion as much as I did, Ernie is such a wealth of knowledge and his openness to share and grow is such a valuable asset to the entire vocation. If you did find value in the discussion please feel free to share the show with a colleague, and if you would please subscribe to the show and leave us a five-star review on your favorite podcast platform I’d be greatly appreciative.For more info on The 2024 Edition of The Seminar hop over to The Seminar Page here: https://cvasps.com/2024-seminar/ Who is Dr. Ernie Rimer? Dr. Ernie Rimer is the Director of Sport Science for the University of Louisville Athletics. He supports the health, safety, and performance of student-athletes through research, education, and innovation. Before Louisville, Rimerwas the Director of Sport Science at the University of Utah and held strength and conditioning positions at the United States Ski & Snowboard Association and Northern Arizona University. Rimer co-founded FYTT, a high-performance software for sports performance professionals. He has a Ph.D. in Exercise Physiology from the University of Utah and is certified in strength and conditioning. Rimer has presented at numerous national and international conferences on various sport-related topics.

Today we introduce our first presenter for The 2024 edition of The Central Virginia Sport Performance Seminar, Auburn’s Cam Josse. Cam is one of the best practitioners in the world when it comes to bridging the physical preparation process to the sporting activity, and I couldn’t be more excited to not only have him on the show, but to have him as part of The Seminar as well. Throughout the 44-minute discussion Cam and I discuss 1)      What drove him to dig to find better ways to deliver transfer from training to sport performance.2)     The role of observation in daily periodization and how simply watching the athletes can have a massive impact on programming decisions.3)     His interpretation and the role of minimal effective dose in his programming4)     Long-term education’s value, and why the rush to learning could be holding people (and our whole vocation for that matter) back5)     Yin Yang of being present vs the present state of the industry6)     Where things outside of physical preparation impact what they do on the day to day7)     Ways expanding your learning lens can have a positive impact on a practitioner’s ability to improve their craft. I am elated to welcome Cam to The Seminar, and so grateful for his openness on today’s episode of The Podcast. This coming edition of The Seminar’s docket is sensational and Coach Josse is a huge part of that. Make sure to give him a follow to keep up with everything he’s got cooking on X at @CoachJosse. I really hope you enjoyed the discussion as much as I did, I really thought this was a great show with a ton of awesome insight from Cam. If you did enjoy it and found some value in it please feel free to share the show with a colleague, and if you would please subscribe to the show and leave us a five-star review on your favorite podcast platform I’d be greatly appreciative.For more info on The 2024 Edition of The Seminar hop over to The Seminar Page here: https://cvasps.com/2024-seminar/ Who is Cam Josse? Cam Josse is a Strength & Conditioning Coach for football at Auburn University. Prior to arriving at Auburn, Cam spent 3 seasons at Indiana University as an Athletic Performance Coach for football. He began his career in sports performance in the private sector with DeFranco's Training Systems, operating as Director of Sports Performance from 2014-2020. Cameron has worked with a multitude of athletes in high school and collegiate sports as well as professional athletes in the NFL, NHL, UFC, and WWE. Cameron earned his bachelor's degree in kinesiology while playing football at the University of Rhode Island, holds a master's degree in exercise science from William Paterson University, and is currently pursuing his PhD from Jean Monnet University in France under the supervision of Dr. JB Morin.

Today I’m super excited to sit down and discuss the preparation programming for wrestlers with Josh Jirgal. Combat sports have become more and more of a “sexy” topic in strength and conditioning with different opportunities becoming available, and Josh is doing a lot of great work with the wrestlers he gets to work with every day. After a quick run-down of how he got to Duke Josh and I get into: 1)    A wrestler’s mindset and how it impacts his programming decisions.2)    What he’s looking at to monitor readiness and training status.3)    Communication strategies he utilizes when he needs to lighten the loads on the guys4)    Where the peripheral fatigue of wrestling fits into their developmental program5)    How he looks at “special days” vs the norm for his wrestlers and the impact it has on preparation.6)    The peaking/tapering process with both the wrestlers and the rowing team.7)    Subjective feedbacks role in his fluid model of periodization. 8)    Confidence, belief, and its impact on intent of training in the weight room.  What a great look behind the curtain to the world of developing college wrestlers. I can’t thank Josh enough for being so open to share not just what he’s doing but the thought process behind his decision making. I really enjoyed hearing how someone coaching athletes in such a unique sport utilizes theory that so many of us do in team sport, and where he’s seeing success with it. If you enjoyed this discussion as much as I did, please do me three quick favors: first, please share this with a colleague that you feel would find value in the show; second, if you haven’t subscribed please subscribe to the show on your favorite podcast player; and lastly, when you’re there, if you could leave us a 5 start review I would greatly appreciate it!Who is Josh Jirgal? Josh Jirgal joined Duke Athletics in August 2022 and serves as an Assistant Sports Performance Coach for the Blue Devils, working with the wrestling, and women’s rowing teams. Prior to his arrival in Durham, Jirgal worked as the Head Strength and Conditioning Coach for UT Permian Basin. He has also had coaching stops at Sacramento State, the US Army Special Operations Command, Wingate University, Champions Sports Performance, Webber International University, the Oakland Raiders, and the SF Rush Pro Rugby team. Jirgal has also coached professional boxers Andre Ward and Amir Khan. He graduated from Appalachian State in 2013 with a B.S. in Exercise Science and went on to earn his Master of Science in Exercise Science from the California University of Pennsylvania in 2017. Jirgal is certified through both the CSCCa (Collegiate Strength and Conditioning Coaches Association certified) and NSCA (National Strength and Conditioning Association).

I am fired up to welcome Clare Kaufman Quebedeaux to The Podcast to talk about leadership and developing basketball players. Clare has had a really cool voyage that has brought her to Columbus to work alongside her first boss and mentor. Throughout the 30 plus minute discussion Clare and I get into: 1)    Being intentional in developing your staff in leadership2)    A wake-up call that brought her to understand her role as a leader developing coaches3)    Some unique aspects to their staffing system to help coaches grow professionally within the department.4)    The importance of finding the right fit during the hiring process.5)    How the transfer portal and foreign trips in the summer had a massive impact on summer training.6)    Where the limitations to motivation have changed some of her perspective.7)    Ways she has had success helping athletes who return from international competition to reintegrate into the team setting. A huge thank you to Clare Kaufman Quebedeaux for sharing so much of her voyage through the coaching world. They have built a great system in Columbus for coaches to grow and develop and she was so kind in breaking down not just the X’s and O’s to it, but the thought process behind how it has evolved. Make sure you give her a follow-on Instagram at @ckarequib to keep up with all the things she’s doing. If you did enjoy the show please share this with a colleague. Lastly, if you haven’t subscribed to the show please do on your favorite podcast app, and if you would be so kind as to leave us a review, I’d greatly appreciate it. Who is Clare Quebedeaux? Clare Quebedeaux joined the Buckeye strength and conditioning program in 2017. Her core responsibilities include serving as the Facility Supervisor for multiple facilities as well as overseeing the Women’s Basketball and Men’s Golf programs. Prior to Ohio State, Quebedeaux was the director of strength and conditioning at Southeastern Louisiana University, working with the football, basketball, women’s soccer, women’s tennis and men’s golf programs. She was also an assistant strength and conditioning coach at Temple University and the University of Hartford. She served as a graduate assistant for strength and conditioning while attending University of Tennessee. Quebedeaux earned her bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science with a concentration in Strength and Conditioning from University of Wisconsin – La Crosse in 2010. She went on to receive her master’s in Kinesiology with a concentration in Exercise Physiology from the University of Tennessee in 2013.

Today I’m really excited to welcome “Mr. Rugby Strength Coach” Keir Wenham-Flatt back to The Podcast, and discuss a different topic with Keir, and that is ways coaches can do better for themselves with secondary forms of income. This is something that, if you’ve ever heard me get on my soap box about, I’m very passionate about, and really feel that we all, me included, need to take a much deeper look at. Throughout the 30-minute discussion “The Rugby Guy” and I get into: 1)    The factors that drove him through the steps leading him to each step of his “side hustle” journey.2)    Why there are things that can help coaches improve may not help drive careers forward3)    How having a secondary income stream can help improve your freedom to make better decisions in and out of work.4)    Persuasion vs coercion, how they work hand in hand if you don’t have a backup plan.5)    Escape velocity numbers, what that means, and how it fits with coaches and side hustles.6)    Skills learned from being in business that transferred into coaching.7)    What is Money Moves and why should coaches care? This topic is one that I really think needs to be talked about exponentially more than it is, and one that I’ve tried to push for more coaches to share how they’re finding alternative ways to make some cash to better themselves. To me, it doesn’t matter if it’s finding a second job, starting an online business, or getting into real estate, as long as you are finding a way to better yourself in the long run I think that is absolutely huge. If you have interest in checking out K’s sight for more info on Money Moves or to sign up hop over to www.callmekeir.com/squeeze. I think that this could be a great avenue for many coaches out there to help find ways to scale what they do and make a little extra cash on the side. Keir is one of the few people I talk to when it comes to ways I can be better online, so I was really excited to get him back on The Podcast to talk about this topic. I hope you enjoyed the banter as much as I did, and if you did, please share the show with a colleague that you think could find some value in it. Also, if you haven’t subscribed and left a review on your favorite podcast player and could do so I would truly appreciate the support! Who is Keir Wenham-Flatt? Keir Wenham-Flatt is a recovering strength coach. After a decade of coaching at the elite level in five different countries, he grossed over $1m in 3 years of operating Strength Coach Network before selling the company in September 2023.These days he helps Strength Coaches to make more money through his long form course Money Moves and his personal site www.callmekeir.com  

This week I’m so fired up to welcome Jonathan Dahuya to The Podcast for a unique conversation about how coaching has led him into other great professional endeavors. Jonathan was a Division I strength and conditioning coach who has made a professional pivot into real estate and provides some great insight into how the coaching world has transferred to the “real world”. Throughout the 30 minutes plus conversation, Jonathan and I get into:  1)    A voyage that led him to choose another vocation2)    Skills that coaches develop that have “transfer” to the real world3)    Where who you are and who the staff/admin you work with may have a different view of what that should be.4)    The value of asking “what do you want me to accomplish?”5)    Aspects of coaching that provided issues in his family life, thus driving the decision to change professions6)    What drove him to his latest professional venture. 7)    How coaches should practice what they preach about embracing change when they get to a point where they need to make a change.  I really can’t thank Jonathan enough for sharing so much of his voyage in and out of the coaching world. It’s a transition that isn’t easy on anyone, but we all should always happy to see someone find a better way for themselves, in and out of coaching. His path hasn’t been an easy one for sure, but one that I hope helps others have a better understanding of where they are in their voyage, and maybe take a deep breath and assess where they are in theirs. I know I did. To keep up to date with all that he’s doing make sure you give him a follow on The Gram at @jonjay.dahuya. If you did enjoy the show please share this with a colleague. If you haven’t please subscribe to the show on your favorite podcast app, and leave us a review, I’d greatly appreciate it.  Who is Jon Dahuya? Jon Dahuya is a former Director of Sports Performance who took a leap away from the collegiate realm to craft a life abundant in love and enriching experiences for himself and his son.  With a decade-long dedication to pouring knowledge into the lives of young athletes and learning from fellow coaches and administrators, Jon brings a wealth of experience to the table. Beyond the sports arena, Jon has seamlessly transitioned into real estate, infusing his passion for growth and mentorship into every facet of his life. Jon continues to apply the coaching tools honed over the years to his real estate business, stays sharp as a coach by working with local youth athletes, and lends his expertise to coaching athletes associated with Fil-Nation Select & the Philippines Youth National Basketball teams. 

Today I have the privilege of welcoming Connor Schoepp to The Podcast and discuss return to play. Connor is doing some great work at Liberty within the realm of applied sport science, and he shares a lot of what he does and how he looks at that part of the world of sports. Throughout the 30-minute discussion Connor and I get into: 1)    What is applied sport science to him.2)    The roles of systems and principles in his programming3)    Ways being a strength coach impacts how he interrupts metrics4)    Collecting data vs acting upon what the data is saying5)    Meeting the coaches where they’re at, and providing the information that they need to answer the questions they have or solve the problems that arise. 6)    How he is structuring the weeks, both in training on and off the field7)    Where these metrics fit in the RTP setting8)    His concerns with looking for metrics that “cause” injuries A great look through the looking glass to what Connor, not only sees the role of sport science in performance, but how he goes about trying to move the needle daily for the coaches and athletes he gets to work with. Make sure to keep up with everything he’s doing by following him on Instagram and Twitter at @connorschoepp. I hope you enjoyed this discussion as much as I did, and if you found value in it please feel free to share the show with a colleague, and if you haven’t subscribed please do on your favorite podcast platform.  Who is Connor Shoepp? Connor Schoepp currently serves as the director of Applied Sport Performance and Performance Coach for Men's Soccer. Previously he has held positions with the Arizona Cardinals, Mississippi State University, and University of Pittsburgh. Originally from South Dakota where he received his undergrad from the University of Sioux Falls.  

This week’s episode of The Podcast brought me back to some of CVASPS’s roots, talking training with one of the worlds the top and most forward-thinking track and field coaches, PJ Vazel. I’m a huge fan of PJ’s love for history and how it has impacted him as a researcher and a coach. Throughout this fantastic 35-minute plus conversation, PJ and I get into: 1)    The role of fine arts studies leading him to dive into the history of sport science2)    Improvisations role in coaching, and why understanding your processes and goals are vital to being able to improvise3)    Where the Soviets were correct back in the day, and what has stood the test of time from their work4)    Specificity vs variability, where is the balance in this contradiction5)    How being calm and relaxed tends to lead to greater performance6)    Is it too strong or is it that the training leads them to be to tense?7)    What challenges are there when coaching “relaxation” with athletes8)    Talent identification, it’s challenges, and why it may come down to getting lucky PJ provides such a fantastic perspective on the preparation of, and cannot thank him enough for being so open to share with us today. His understanding of history and the arts, and how it has formulated how he works as a coach is really awesome. I really enjoyed hearing how he looks at the history of training means and methods, the research behind it, and how he evaluates and implements that in his programming today. Make sure you give him a follow on the socials at X and Instagram @pjvazel. I really hope that you enjoyed this discussion as much as I did. As always, please share the show with someone that you feel could find value in it, and if you haven’t, I would greatly appreciate it if you subscribed to the show and left us a review on your favorite podcast player.  Who is PJ Vazel?PJ Vazel is currently national athletics coach for France having coached sprinters, hurdlers, and throwers at each of the Olympics and world championships since 2004. He has been an IAAF correspondent and chronicler for Le Monde for a decade and has participated to scientific and historical projects in athletics.

In a season of “long time coming” guests, I am so excited to get to welcome Wannabefast’s Dan Fichter. Dan is doing absolutely fantastic work in the 585, and is one of (in my opinion) the most forward-thinking practitioners in the world. Though out the nearly 40-minute conversation, Dan and I get into:  1)    “What Matters” in strength and conditioning in Dan’s eyes2)    Voluntary movement vs, reflexive, vs anticipatory 3)    Where technique fits in movement work4)    If there is one thing that all athletes “have to work towards” what would that be?5)    The future direction of our vocation, and how can we evolve with the future of coaching?6)    What brought Dan to start running down the neurological rabbit hole and where does he suggest we can start educating ourselves on the topic.7)    Unintended consequences to lifting weights and what can be done to counteract that. The unique lens that Dan looks through to evaluate how athletes perform is one that more of us need to take a step back and peer through. This conversation has led me to reevaluate so many of the progressions and programming that we have set. I can’t thank Dan enough for being so open with us today, and challenging me to understand a totally different perspective, one that I know holds immense value. This is a show was really fun and the conversation really opened my eyes, and I hope you found as much value in it as I did. If you did, please share this conversation with a practitioner who could find value in it as well, and if you haven’t subscribed to the show and left us a review, if you could do that as well I’d greatly appreciate it.  Who is Dan Fichter? Dan Fichter has been involved in strength and conditioning for well over 20 years, Wannagetfast became a reality in his garage in the early 2000s. With Boots on the ground in the early 90’s Dan has studied closely with some of the elites in the field of physical preparation.  Dan has a very diverse education that literally spans the globe. Dan was responsible for designing and implementing speed, strength, conditioning, and mobility training programs for athletes in men’s lacrosse, alpine ski, volleyball, tennis, swimming, basketball, Football, lacrosse, and a variety of other sports. As a high school coach Dan has won 8 Sectional Titles in Track and Football and has coached numerous professional athletes, Olympians, and some of the most high-profile Hockey and Lacrosse players in the world.  Fichter has traveled the country lecturing to numerous NFL, MLB, NHL, on speed training, strength training, and nervous system development and how to pull these elements into a comprehensive package.  At the High School level Dan teaches fundamental postural and force absorption techniques and how it easily translates into sporting prowess and bullet proofing against injuries

This week we welcome back the OG of The Podcast, Dr. Christian Carter who was on the first “interview show” I did back in the day on YouTube was with Willie Danzer (check it out here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wwBjea_f5e0&t=217s). This was a long overdue catch up, and a fantastic 30 plus minute discussion including: 1)    Driving factors to why his mindset on our positions has changed over his career.2)    What could be leading to this shift in focus from just programming to improving the relationships with our athletes.3)    The “Do More” or the “Good but” responses lead to athletes looking for some sort of praise.4)    A two-way street of getting to actually know your athlete’s but be vulnerable enough to let your athletes truly know you as well.5)    How being a happier and nicer person can really help improve your relationships with your athletes, their improvements, and enjoyment for being at work daily.6)    Where he feels “coaching” happens, and how setting the “standard” and teaching can lead to better opportunities to learn and connect with your athletes in the long run. It’s always awesome to catch up with Dr. Carter and this conversation was no exception. For someone who’s gone through the educational steps to change his first name to Doctor, and has been doing this at such a high level as a practitioner, to share his evolution and the driving factors to these changes in perspective was really awesome. I can’t thank Christian enough for being so candid in sharing his story and thought process and growth as a coach and person. This is a talk that I took so much from, and hope you did as well. As with all of our content, if you found value in the show and think a colleague could as well, please feel free to share the show with anyone you think would find it valuable. Also, if you could please subscribe and leave us a review on your favorite podcast app, I’d truly appreciate it if you could. Who is Dr. Christian Carter? Christian Carter joined JMU Strength and Conditioning for Olympic sports in 2013. He is in charge of designing and implementing programs for women's track and field, volleyball and men’s soccer. Christian is also the Head Weightlifting Coach for Renaissance Periodization as well as a nutrition consultant for RP. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from the University of Wisconsin, his Master's in Health Promotion from Virginia Tech, and his Doctorate in Sport Performance from East Tennessee State University.

I am really excited to discuss building a program the new world of college athletics with Asa Britt. The evolution to the “new normal” of college sports has led to so many of us needing to evolve how we, not only program, but go throughout our day to day schedule with the athletes. Inside this packed 35-minute discussion Asa and I dive into: 1)    The importance and power of routine in an athlete’s life2)    How the landscape of college athletics with the portal has impacted how we need to teach routines and behaviors with these athletes.3)    Ways the athlete’s coming in from other schools may need help adjusting to the new team, but also how you can learn from them improve different aspects of your program.4)    What the importance of understanding how the player felt about their past program and their training, and what their past strength coach as to say about the player and how they trained.5)    Strategies used to build different routines and help the players understand different behaviors so that they can make better decisions to reach their goals. I’m so appreciative of Asa for spending the time today and sharing so many of his experiences and growth through his coaching evolution. I know that this past off season I’ve had more “growing” experiences and has pushed me in many unique ways, and through this conversation and other, I’m certain I’m not alone with that.  Make sure you give him a follow him IG @abritt_19! This chat is full of great info and I really hope you enjoyed as much as I did. If so please feel free to share the episode with a collogue, and if you haven’t subscribed and left a review for the show on your favorite podcast platform I’d greatly appreciate it. Who is Asa Britt? Asa Britt was name Assistant Director of Sports Performance at Fairfield University in 2022. He develops and oversees strength and conditioning programs for Men's Basketball, Softball, and Golf.Britt came to Fairfield from Sacred Heart University, where he was elevated from the position of Graduate Assistant to Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach in 2021. He worked directly with men’s basketball, men’s and women’s soccer, and softball. He was also in charge of developing the internship program, connecting with Sacred Heart’s exercise science program. As a Graduate Assistant, he was in charge of men’s and women’s soccer, tennis, dance, and assisted with football.Prior to his stint at Sacred Heart University, he had internships at the University of Kentucky, Manhattan College, and the University of Iowa. Britt also served as a Volunteer Assistant for the women’s tennis team at Rutgers University as well as being a Sport Performance Coach at AP2T.Britt received a B.S. in Exercise Science from Manhattan College. He is a member of the NSCA and holds a CSCS certification from the National Strength and Conditioning Association. Britt also hold certifications from USAW and RPR.

This week I have the pleasure of sitting down and discussing the management of coaches and administration with the performance director of first special forces command, Ryan Carroll. Throughout the 30-minute discussion Ryan and I get into: 1)    The unique challenge of his position and how some challenges cross into both tactical and collegiate strength and conditioning.2)    How implementing things at scale creates great challenges and increases the need for collaboration between coaches3)    Ways that he and his staff communicate information to the higher ups to show that there is a return on the investment being made.4)    Conversations that the information they collect lead to, both to those above him and the service members that help with buy in at all levels.5)    Changing your thought process from being a dictator to coworkers with those you’re coaching, and how it can impact your trajectory as a coach. I’m really grateful for Ryan spending the time today to discuss some of the systems and processes that they’re putting together to help build out an all-encompassing performance and wellness program for a variety of different service members. Although at a different level, many of these issues are similar to those that arise at the collegiate level as well, like scaling, individualization between units/team, donated equipment we are expected to utilize and so on. This chat is full of great info that I hope you enjoyed as much as I did. If so please feel free to share the episode with a collogue, and if you haven’t subscribed and left a review for the show on your favorite podcast platform I’d greatly appreciate it. Who is Ryan Carroll? Ryan Carroll, MS, CSCS*D is the Human Performance and Wellness Director at 1st Special Forces Command at Fort Liberty, NC.  He has been a strength and conditioning coach for over 20 years and in the tactical space for 8. He has worked with the Colorado Rockies, Chicago White Sox, Loyola University Chicago, BridgeAthletic, and an Air Force Special Operations Unit in North Carolina. Ryan has spoken at several NSCA Tactical Conferences on training female soldiers, as well as the design and implementation of a comprehensive operator "Reset Week".   He can be reached at [email protected] or on instagram at @rcsc14

Today we have an awesome discussion on building a performance program and department with Carl “Shep” Sheppard. Shep has been given the unique challenge of building the new preparation program for Space Force, which is (obviously) an extremely unique branch of the military.  Throughout the 37-minute discussion Shep and I dive into: 1)    The role a soldier and an educator has driven his professional development2)    How the “average make up” of the operators he works with makes developing a preparation program a unique challenge3)    What aspects of human physiology they’re evaluating and how they’re looking to develop those qualities.4)    How using the health of the operators is the most value and first level of their preparedness5)    The battle between forward thinking and the way it’s always been.6)    Where wearables do and do not fit in the development of these operators Such an interesting assignment, and an awesome discussion with Shep Sheppard diving into how they’re building the preparation program for these operators. I can’t thank him enough for being so open to sharing the directions of this process with us today. I hope that you’ve found value in the discussion, and if so please feel free to share it with a colleague and please subscribe and leave us a 5-star review on your favorite podcast platform.

In this week’s episode of The Podcast I got to sit down and building out a unique staff structure and the development of a yearlong training program with Kennesaw State’s Emmet Van Der Snick. Throughout the 30 plus minute discussion Emmet and I get into: 1)    The role of PT school in his development, and how it continues to impact him professionally2)    How having different directors within a department is helping their department progress3)    Where his philosophy of training formulated, and how it has grown through his different stops.4)    Specific progressions that he utilizes and has success with.5)    The impact of today’s culture in sports and the transfer portal on his training prescriptions. Emmet shared with us some great insight into the formation of their multiple director structure at KSU and why this could be a more viable option for departments going forward.  I also can’t thank him enough for being so open to share so in-depth to what his programming is with his student athletes, that’s a great look inside not just what he’s programming but the thoughts behind it. I’m excited that I got to speak with him and for his future as a practitioner. Make sure you give him a follow @coach_van_der_snick on Instagram. If you enjoyed the discussion and found value in the show feel free to share this episode with a collogue that you feel would enjoy it, and please don’t forget to subscribe and give us a 5-star review on your favorite podcast player. I truly do appreciate it. Who is Emmett Van Der Snick? Emmett Van Der Snick currently serves as the Director of Sports Performance at Kennesaw State University where he works with Lacrosse, Softball, Tennis, Women’s Golf, and Women’s Soccer. Prior to this role he served as the Assistant Director of Sports Performance. Before KSU he spent time coaching at BYU, LSU, and JMU working with a variety of teams including Football, Women’s Lacrosse, and Swim and Dive.

In this week’s episode I get to have a really awesome conversation about finding secondary ways to make money as a coach with Rodrigo Alvira Isla. If you’ve ever had the “privilege” of getting stuck with me during one of my rants about this topic you already know how passionate I am about this topic and how important I think this is, not just for coaches, but for everyone in today’s financial climate. Throughout the nearly 40-minute discussion Rodrigo and I get into: 1)     Being an international, the visa process, and some of the challenges of coming to work in The States2)     Some of the differences in basketball preparation between Spain and the US.3)     What were the driving factors behind Spaniardperformance and how it has helped him become a better coach.4)     Why many of the fears people have behind why they don’t post content, or build an online product may be self-imposed.5)     Working with athletes on an online training program, steps you can make to make it scalable, and what is a reasonable time commitment to each athlete in his mind.  I cannot thank Rodrigo enough for being so open to sharing, not just his voyage, but also some ways that coaches can use platforms we all have to find a second source of income. He’s putting out awesome content with his business on Instagram, so make sure you give him a follow at @spaniardperformance. Even if you don’t speak Spanish, he’s providing a great template (how he’s doing things) as to how you can build, and scale, an online business as a coach.  If you found value in the show it would be a huge help to us if you could do me three favors: first, as with all all our content, please feel share this with a colleague you think could find value in the show. Second, if you haven’t please subscribe to the show on your favorite podcast player, and lastly if you could leave us a 5 star review on that players I would greatly appreciate it.  Who is Rodrigo Alvira Isla? Rodrigo was born and raised in Zaragoza, Spain. He came to America to play college basketball, playing division 2 basketball a lung injury during his Junior year. He graduated with bachelor in Exercise Science in 2018, worked in Dubai, Lincoln University, Exceed SPF, and Grand Canyon University, with different sports, including Basketball, Football, Volleyball and Golf. He created Spaniard Performance in 2018 to help the Spanish speaking world to learn the side for Sports Performance in the US.

This week I’m so excited to welcome Amit Vohra to The Podcast. Similar to the past few guests we have had on the show I’ve been fortunate to watch Amit’s professional growth from a distance after getting his feet wet in the vocation under my former director Chris Stewart. During the 30+ minute discussion Amit and I get into: 1)    How he has formulated his thought process around programming. 2)    The role and power of belief in training, programming, coaching, and life.3)    What the goal of the program is, and where evaluations impact the directions they take to reach those goals.4)    Examples of how they utilize data to help structure and progress/regress drills in practice5)    Metrics that they look at, why they look at them, and how they impact decisions. Not just in practice but in training as well. Amit is doing some great work up at Towson, it’s really been awesome watching him grow from intern here back in the day to where he is now. Super excited for the future he has as a practitioner. Make sure you give him a follow @vohra91 on Instagram. And please, if you find value in the show feel free to share this episode with a collogue that you feel would enjoy it, and please don’t forget to subscribe and give us a 5-star review on your favorite podcast player. I truly do appreciate it. Who is Amit Vohra?Vohra has been a strength and conditioning coach at Towson since August 2018.  He currently serves as the director of basketball performance, primarily working with the men's basketball team.Among his duties include leading the strength room’s internship program plus utilizing the catapult athlete monitoring system to help optimize training loads.Vohra was the strength coach for the 2018-19 CAA Champion Towson women’s basketball team and the 2020 ECAC Champion Towson women’s indoor track team.He came to Towson after a year at the University of Connecticut as a sports performance assistant, working primarily with men’s and women’s cross country/track & field and diving.  His 2017 UConn women’s cross-country team won its first-ever conference championship in program history.Previous to UConn, Vohra served as a graduate assistant for Springfield College for the 2016-17 season, working with men’s/women’s basketball, men’s soccer, men’s lacrosse and baseball.  He has also worked as an intern for Wake Forest University, the College of the Holy Cross, Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), and the University of Richmond.

I am elated to get to sit down and discuss the role and impact of data in the return to play process with The Las Vegas Golden Knights Director of Sport Science and Reconditioning, Dr. Aaron Heishman. Throughout the 35-minute discussion Heish and I get into:  1)    The impact of starting with the right mentor, and how his has left a mark on him professionally and continues to drive him forward.2)    Where he sees the role of “sport science” in their organization3)    The balance between skill and power, and the ways they evaluate where they fit on the continuum of how they move4)    The role of data in the RTP process, including what they utilized as preinjury baseline data.5)    How the process of evaluating and interrupting data is what makes it actionable, which is where the value truly is6)    What drives the conversation’s when an athlete is progressing through the RTP process, and how the objective and subjective work hand in hand to drive decisions.   Truly grateful for Dr. Heishman taking the time to be on the show and being so open to sharing. He’s doing some fantastic work in Vegas and is an absolute wealth of knowledge that’s absolutely driving our entire vocation forward by pushing the envelope in the performance monitoring world. Make sure to give him a follow @aheish11_ on Instagram. Feel free to share this episode with a collogue that you feel would enjoy it, and please don’t forget to subscribe and give us a 5-star review on your favorite podcast player. I truly do appreciate it. Who is Aaron Heishman? Aaron is the Head of Sport Science and Reconditioning for the Vegas Golden Knights. He is primarily responsible for directing the sport science initiatives of the organization, as well as leading the implementation of return to play programming for athletes undergoing long-term rehabilitation. Prior to his time with the Golden Knights, he worked as the Assistant Director of Basketball Performance and Sport Scientist at University of Oklahoma. While at OU, Aaron earned his PhD in Exercise Physiology with research focused on athlete monitoring strategies used to evaluate neuromuscular performance and fatigue in basketball players. Before Oklahoma, Aaron worked as the Graduate Assistant for Basketball Performance at the University of Virginia, where he found a passion for trying to bridge the gap between applied performance practices and research in effort to maximize athlete health and performance.