Evolving Performance

In this episode of the Evolving Performance Podcast, Kevin is joined by Mike Potenza, Director of High Performance for the San Jose Sharks. Mike oversees the strength and conditioning, nutrition, and medical staffs for both the Sharks and their AHL affiliate, the San Jose Barracuda. He previously spent 16 years as the Sharks' head strength and conditioning coach and two years as Director of Performance with the Golden State Warriors.They explore how high-performance departments have evolved in professional sports, what Mike looks for when hiring across different disciplines, and the importance of character and culture fit. Mike shares impactful lessons from his time in the NBA—including personalized programming and tendon health strategies—and how those insights have changed his approach in hockey. The conversation covers comprehensive athlete profiling through blood work and range of motion assessments, recovery strategies that actually move the needle, and game day preparation techniques to maximize player energy and mental clarity.This episode provides valuable insights for anyone working in or aspiring to work in professional sports, offering a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to support elite athlete performance.Topics Include:The evolution and expansion of high-performance staffs in professional hockeyWhat to prioritize when hiring strength coaches, nutritionists, and medical staffWhy character and culture fit matter more than technical knowledgeLessons from the NBA on personalized programming and return-to-play protocolsComprehensive athlete profiling: injury history, range of motion, and blood workWhat blood panels reveal about nutrient deficiencies in elite athletesTracking hormonal changes (testosterone and cortisol) throughout the seasonIn-season training philosophy: maintaining capacity while developing skillsRecovery strategies that work: sleep optimization, massage, and contrast therapyGame day supplementation protocols for energy and mental clarityTravel management and sleep scheduling across time zonesWhy practice times should adjust based on late-night games and travel📲 Connect with Mike Potenza:X: @mike_potenza📩 Contact Kevin:Follow and suggest future guests, topics, and questions: @KevinNeeld📺 Watch the videos: @NeeldPerformance🧠 Subscribe to the free newsletter: KevinNeeld.com📬 Email: [email protected]⏱️ Timestamps[00:00:00] Introduction and Guest Background [00:01:50] Episode Overview and Sponsor Highlight [00:05:32] Staff Expansion and the Director of High Performance Role [00:09:59] Roles, Responsibilities, and Hiring Philosophy [00:18:34] Athlete Profiling, Range of Motion, and Performance Metrics [00:21:37] Advanced Blood Work and Biological Monitoring [00:31:06] Lessons from the NBA and Tendon Health [00:36:50] Modern Recovery Strategies [00:45:34] Game Day Preparation and Supplementation [00:49:45] Travel Cocooning and Logistics

In this episode of the Evolving Performance Podcast, Kevin is joined by Bill Hartman, a world-renowned physical therapist and co-owner of Indianapolis Fitness and Sports Training (IFAST). Bill is the creator of the Unified Health and Performance Continuum Model, a principles-based framework that examines how the entire human system works together to manage forces and create movement.They explore how structural biases—an athlete's natural body type—fundamentally shape their potential to develop speed versus strength. Bill explains why certain structures gravitate toward specific sports, the trade-offs of training athletes without accounting for their build, and how to tailor exercise selection to individual biomechanics. The conversation also covers evaluating movement in pain-free athletes, using internal versus external coaching cues, and why "belly breathing" misrepresents proper diaphragm function.This episode offers essential insights for coaches looking to individualize training and better understand the relationship between structure, movement, and performance.Topics Include:Structural biases that favor speed versus strength developmentWhy elite athletes in the same sport share similar body typesHow structure determines pressure distribution and force production capacityThe "funnel" vs. "pillar" configurations and their performance implicationsTraining trade-offs when working against an athlete's natural structureExercise selection strategies for different structural archetypesEvaluating movement in athletes without pain or dysfunctionWhen to use internal versus external focus in coachingDirect assessment of diaphragm function and breathing mechanicsWhy "belly breathing" constrains the thorax and limits movement qualityUsing strategic loading to magnify movement patterns and evolve motor controlThe role of sensory awareness in recapturing relative motion📲 Connect with Bill Hartman:Instagram: @bill_hartman_ptWebsites:➡️ billhartmanpt.com➡️ UHPC Model➡️ RECON📩 Contact Kevin:Follow and suggest future guests, topics, and questions: @KevinNeeld📺 Watch the videos: @NeeldPerformance🧠 Subscribe to the free newsletter: KevinNeeld.com📬 Email: [email protected]⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Introduction to Bill Hartman02:00 – Ad read: Metabolic Elite04:57 – Structural biases in speed vs. strength athletes08:05 – Body types and sport selection10:13 – Funnel vs. pillar configurations12:07 – NFL combine data on structural ratios14:09 – Tailoring exercise selection to structure17:12 – Olympic lifting and structural considerations19:08 – Recognizing structural constraints in training21:15 – Hockey players and horizontal force application24:25 – Pressure biases and exercise selection28:53 – Extreme exhalers and training position31:38 – Performance vs. structural restoration36:08 – Movement screens for pain-free athletes40:09 – Training environment and surface variability45:18 – Long-term athletic development principles48:55 – Biological vs. chronological age53:04 – Growth mindset and continuing education55:00 – Movement evaluation in pain-free athletes57:32 – Breathing evaluation and relative motion01:00:32 – Belly breathing vs. diaphragmatic function01:01:50 – Connecting with Bill and the UHP Network

In this episode of the Evolving Performance Podcast, Kevin is joined by Coach Mike Boyle, one of the most respected and influential figures in strength and conditioning. Mike is the co-founder of Mike Boyle Strength and Conditioning (MBSC), a best-selling author, and a former coach for the Boston Bruins, Boston Red Sox, and U.S. Women’s Olympic Hockey Team, among others. His decades of work with youth, collegiate, and professional athletes have shaped modern performance training.They explore the "big rocks" of athletic development—timeless principles that remain essential even as trends, tools, and tech evolve. Mike shares insights from over 40 years in the field, including how to identify and develop athletes with long-term potential, when kids should begin training, and how parents can best navigate today’s youth sports landscape.This is a must-listen for parents, coaches, and performance pros looking for clear, experience-backed guidance to help athletes reach their full potential.Topics Include:The “big rocks” of training that outlast fads and technologiesWhat separates athletes who make it from those who fall shortThe right age to start formal strength and conditioningKey physical and psychological readiness signs in young athletesMisconceptions about youth training and growth stuntingAdvice for parents on year-round sports and specializationWhy most youth athletes don’t need to “play up” to get betterSigns of overuse and burnout in young athletesHow to identify appropriate coaching and training environmentsThe importance of consistency and long-term planning in developmentWhy early success doesn’t always lead to long-term achievement📲 Connect with Mike Boyle: Instagram: @michael_boyle1959 Twitter/X: @mboyle1959 Websites: ➡️ CompleteConditioning.com ➡️ BodyByBoyle.com ➡️ MBSC on TrainHeroic ➡️ StrengthCoach.com📩 Contact Kevin: Follow and suggest future guests, topics, and questions: @KevinNeeld 📺 Watch the videos: @NeeldPerformance 🧠 Subscribe to the free newsletter: KevinNeeld.com 📬 Email: [email protected] for listening!⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Mike Boyle Bio01:23 – Episode 9 topics02:11 - Welcoming Mike Boyle to the podcast04:02 – Coaching vs. technology07:48 – Strength and consistency12:28 – Traits of high-potential athletes16:18 – Training vs. skill in offseason20:58 – Role acceptance for long-term success25:58 – Social media and talent myths28:43 – Ideal age to start training33:13 – Starting LTAD at 11 vs. 1836:18 – Lifting and growth: myth vs. fact39:20 – Long-term development mindset43:00 – What separates pros46:00 – Training adjustments with age47:33 – Parent advice: avoid year-round hype52:00 – Burnout and D1 predictors56:00 – Development over tournaments59:08 – What to look for in coaches/teams1:03:00 – Where to follow Mike

In this episode of the Evolving Performance Podcast, Kevin is joined by Eric Cressey, Director of Player Health and Performance for the New York Yankees and President and co-founder of Cressey Sports Performance. They delve into the importance of developing maximum strength for athletes and key characteristics of effective strength training methods. Eric discusses how to recognize when an athlete is strong enough and ready to pursue other primary training goals, acknowledging the evolution of athletic strength and the role of technology in assessing performance.They explore whether strength training can lead to reduced mobility and strategies to minimize potential loss in athleticism, particularly for rotational athletes. The conversation further addresses how strength training should evolve from off-season to in-season programs to account for competing demands, emphasizing maintaining strength with minimal volume during the competitive season. Finally, they cover critical aspects like the impact of athlete lifestyle habits (including sleep), managing injury history, and the importance of mentorship for young coaches in the evolving landscape of sports performance. This episode provides actionable insights for coaches and athletes looking to optimize training adaptation and career longevity.Topics Include:The importance of developing maximum strength for athletes.Recognizing when an athlete is strong enough to shift training focus.How strength training can impact mobility and athleticism.Training considerations for rotational athletes.Evolving strength training from off-season to in-season programs.The role of technology in assessing and guiding strength development.Strategies for maintaining strength with low volume in-season.The critical role of sleep in athlete performance and recovery.Balancing physical stressors with broader life stressors for athletes.The value of mentorship for aspiring strength and conditioning coaches.📲 Connect with Eric: EricCressey.com | Instagram: @ericcressey⏱️ Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction to Eric Cressey01:23 – Why strength is foundational for athletic development03:22 – The impact of strength training on movement and conditioning06:55 – How strong is strong enough?08:21 – Using data and technology to guide individualized programming10:27 – Balancing strength development with movement quality14:00 – Adapting training as athletes age and progress16:28 – Key considerations for rotational athletes18:31 – The role of bilateral and unilateral lower body training21:30 – Principles of effective in-season strength programming25:38 – Managing training through the demands of a long season29:34 – Balancing immediate performance with long-term development33:03 – Top recovery strategies: Sleep, nutrition, hydration36:14 – Managing stress and recovery in high-performance settings38:09 – Periodizing year-round training for sustained progress44:17 – Practical use of foam rolling and recovery tools48:09 – Guidance for young coaches: Mentorship, reps, and soft skills55:14 – Final thoughts on growth and coaching longevity56:01 – Where to follow Eric and learn more about CSP internshipsContact Kevin:Follow me and suggest future guests, topics and questions: @KevinNeeldWatch the videos: @NeeldPerformanceGet access to my FREE newsletter: KevinNeeld.com

In this episode of the Evolving Performance Podcast, Kevin is joined by Mike Robertson, President of Robertson Training Systems and co-owner of Indianapolis Fitness and Sports Training (IFAST), named one of the top ten gyms in America by Men's Health. They explore the foundational principles of program design, individualizing training, and navigating the complexities of an athlete's career. Mike introduces his "7 Rs" framework for building effective training programs, emphasizing the importance of every component from warm-ups to recovery.They dive into Mike's athlete assessment process, which includes identifying limitations and opportunities through conversation, movement analysis, and objective data. The discussion also covers the balance between performance gains and durability, including how risk tolerance in training should evolve across an athlete's career. Finally, they outline strategies for training post-injury, emphasizing psychological support and using recovery periods for holistic development. This episode offers actionable insights for coaches and athletes aiming to optimize adaptation and career longevity.Topics Include:The “7 Rs” framework for effective program designEducating clients on the “why” behind their trainingAthlete assessment and using objective dataBalancing performance gains with durabilityAdapting training to career stage and sport scheduleProgramming and supporting injured athletesConsistency’s role in long-term developmentExercises to restore movement capacityUsing isometrics and eccentrics in early offseason📲 Connect with Jim: RobertsonTrainingSystems.com | Instagram: @robtrainsystems⏱️ Timestamps:00:00 – Welcome and intro to Mike Robertson 01:29 – Mike’s influence on the podcast and programming approach 04:34 – The origin and breakdown of the “7 Rs” framework 06:18 – Educating clients and the impact of effective warm-ups 11:14 – Mike’s assessment process and use of objective data 15:31 – Video feedback and building confident training plans 19:18 – Follow-up testing and performance vs. movement balance 23:36 – Training buckets: Mobility, Neural Output, Metabolic 24:50 – Offseason strategies and avoiding interference effects 28:45 – Exercises to restore movement and enhance durability 33:34 – Risk tolerance and adjusting training across career stages 37:33 – Adapting to different sport calendars 42:10 – Holistic return-to-play strategies and mindset during injury 46:13 – Feedback loops and the importance of consistency 50:49 – Q&A: Improving hip IR and early offseason strategies 54:48 – Where to connect with Mike and his resourcesSupporting High PerformanceMetabolic Elite's entire line is designed to specifically support the health, performance, and recovery of high performers. Each product is formulated using research-supported ingredients and dosages using the highest quality ingredients, so you can be confident that every product you take will deliver the maximal benefit and effect.Check out why Metabolic Elite's Liposomal Tablet delivery system is a game-changer: LPT White PaperSave 15% using the code 'neeld15' at checkout here: MetabolicContact Kevin:Follow me and suggest future guests, topics and questions: @KevinNeeldWatch the videos: @NeeldPerformanceGet access to my FREE newsletter: KevinNeeld.comEmail me: [email protected] for listening!

In this episode of the Evolving Performance Podcast, Kevin is joined by clinical pharmacist, author, and metabolic health expert Jim LaValle to dive deep into the interconnected systems that underpin human health and performance. Jim introduces his “Five Triads” framework—an integrative approach that helps identify root causes of fatigue, poor recovery, gut dysfunction, and hormonal imbalances. They explore how stress, inflammation, and training load affect everything from decision-making and stamina to resilience and hormone production.Jim outlines actionable strategies for optimizing metabolic function using lifestyle, nutrition, and targeted supplementation—offering practical solutions for athletes, coaches, and anyone striving to improve energy, recovery, and long-term health. This conversation is packed with insight and real-world applications for maximizing both performance and durability.Topics Include:The importance of viewing health through interconnected systemsHow cortisol disrupts multiple systems at onceGut-brain-immune dysfunction in athletesWhat your resting heart rate and HRV reveal about your readinessSupplements and lifestyle tools to restore balance across the triadsNutrition strategies to reduce inflammation and improve sleepWhy testosterone might be the wrong place to startFoundational habits to support resilience and longevity📲 Connect with Jim: JimLaValle.com | Instagram: @therealjimlavalle⏱️ Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction to Jim LaValle01:58 – Why interconnected systems matter more than isolated biomarkers03:42 – Overview of the Five Triads03:58 – Triad 1: Adrenal–Thyroid–Pancreas (The Energy Triad)06:56 – Symptoms and interventions for Triad 1 dysfunction08:21 – Triad 2: Gut–Immune–Brain (The Resiliency Triad)11:58 – Brain inflammation, reaction time, and decision-making in sport14:18 – Triad 3: Cardiopulmonary–Neurovascular (Endurance & Stamina)17:09 – Blood pressure, microcapillaries, and recovery capacity20:21 – Triad 4: Liver–Lymph–Kidney (Detoxification)23:36 – Triad 5: Sex Hormones (Potency and Strength)26:10 – Where to start if multiple triads are showing dysfunction30:23 – Why root causes often lie in Triads 1 and 232:52 – The bidirectional relationship between gut and brain health36:06 – Lifestyle strategies to improve immune resilience during a season39:32 – Foundational sleep, food, and mindset habits for high performers43:51 – Core supplements for gut, brain, and mitochondrial health45:59 – Q&A: Interpreting lipid panels and LDL/HDL ratios47:39 – Q&A: Underrated supplements for performance50:06 – Q&A: How much time Jim spends reading and studying research51:06 – Where to connect with Jim LaValleSupporting High PerformanceMetabolic Elite's entire line is designed to specifically support the health, performance, and recovery of high performers. Each product is formulated using research-supported ingredients and dosages using the highest quality ingredients, so you can be confident that every product you take will deliver the maximal benefit and effect.Check out why Metabolic Elite's Liposomal Tablet delivery system is a game-changer: LPT White PaperSave 15% using the code 'neeld15' at checkout here: Metabolic EliteMy personal go-to's:To improve focus, decision making, and coordination: SynapsinTo improve inflammation and recovery: Tetra CurTo support the immune sys

In this episode, Brijesh Patel discusses the critical role that leadership, character, and daily habits play in athlete development and long-term success, including:What coaches are really evaluating during recruiting and playing time decisionsCommon behavioral red flags that predict performance and developmental issuesHow to develop athletes who can handle adversity and lead themselves and othersPractical strategies for improving mindset, communication, and resilienceWhat athletes wish they had done differently earlier in their careersThe habits and tools that help players thrive at the professional levelEvolve with Brijesh:Instagram: @bpatel515 Website: CoachBPatel.comSupporting High Performance Metabolic Elite's entire line is designed to specifically support the health, performance, and recovery of high performers. Each product is formulated using research-supported ingredients and dosages using the highest quality ingredients, so you can be confident that every product you take will deliver the maximal benefit and effect.Check out why Metabolic Elite's Liposomal Tablet delivery system is a game-changer: LPT White PaperSave 15% using the code 'neeld15' at checkout here: Metabolic EliteMy personal go-to's:To improve focus, decision making, and coordination: SynapsinTo improve inflammation and recovery: Tetra CurTo support the immune system and weight management: ViraxallTo improve digestive health: Max 12 ProbioticContact Kevin:Follow me and suggest future guests, topics and questions: @KevinNeeld Watch the videos: @NeeldPerformance Get access to my FREE newsletter: KevinNeeld.com Email me: [email protected] for listening!

In this episode, Andrew Hauser discusses the significant impact respiratory training can have on both performance and recovery, including:The science of breathing and how the relationship between carbon dioxide and oxygen can impact performance Specific breathing strategies to immediately impact short-term performanceLonger-term adaptations to respiratory trainingProgramming recommendations on how different breathing methods align with more traditional training practicesWhere athletes should start with respiratory training and objective measures to monitor progressEvolve with Andrew:Instagram: @andrew_hauser_atscWebsite: Continuum High PerformanceSupporting High PerformanceMetabolic Elite's entire line is designed to specifically support the health, performance, and recovery of high performers. Each product is formulated using research-supported ingredients and dosages using the highest quality ingredients, so you can be confident that every product you take will deliver the maximal benefit and effect. Check out why Metabolic Elite's Liposomal Tablet delivery system is a game-changer: LPT White PaperSave 15% using the code 'neeld15' at checkout here: Metabolic EliteMy personal go-to's:To improve focus, decision making, and coordination: SynapsinTo improve inflammation and recovery: Tetra CurTo support the immune system and weight management: ViraxallTo improve digestive health: Max 12 ProbioticContact Kevin:Follow me and suggest future guests, topics and questions: @KevinNeeldWatch the videos: @NeeldPerformanceGet access to my FREE newsletter: KevinNeeld.comEmail me: [email protected] for listening!

In this episode, renowned hypertrophy expert Pat Davidson does a deep dive on building muscle, including:The required stimulus for hypertrophy – what is required for your body to put on muscleKey training considerations to maximize muscular developmentHow the longstanding assumption that a specific hormonal response to training was required for building muscle may be misguidedSpecial considerations for athletes that want to put on muscleWhat “hard gainers” – people that really struggle to put on muscle – can do to maximize their progressKey nutrition and supplementation strategies to maximize hypertrophyEvolve with Pat:Instagram: @dr.patdavidsonWebsite: DrPatDavdison.netSupporting High PerformanceMetabolic Elite's entire line is designed to specifically support the health, performance, and recovery of high performers. Each product is formulated using research-supported ingredients and dosages using the highest quality ingredients, so you can be confident that every product you take will deliver the maximal benefit and effect. Check out why Metabolic Elite's Liposomal Tablet delivery system is a game-changer: LPT White PaperSave 15% using the code 'neeld15' at checkout here: Metabolic EliteMy personal go-to's:To improve focus, decision making, and coordination: SynapsinTo improve inflammation and recovery: Tetra CurTo support the immune system and weight management: ViraxallTo improve digestive health: Max 12 Probiotic

In this episode, Maria Mountain, who specializes in goalie-specific training for hockey, shares her insights on:What makes the goalie position unique from forwards and defensemen and the implications this has for off-ice trainingWhy certain methods lead to goalies “over pushing” and getting out of position, and specific strategies to fix the issueThe role of strength training for goalies, and important information for goalies who don’t want to get too “bulky”Differences in the conditioning demands of practices and games for goalies, and how coaches can alter drills to improve their goalies’ developmentKey considerations for avoiding hip injuries and maximizing durability throughout the seasonIn this episode, Maria provides several practical examples of exercises goalies should integrate into their routines. I'd highly encourage you to watch the video of this episode on my YouTube channel (Goalie-Specific Training) and to check out her social channels below, which are packed with exercise demos for goalies. Evolve with Maria:Instagram: @GoalieTrainingYouTube: @GoalieTrainingWebsite: GoalieTrainingPro.comSupporting High PerformanceMetabolic Elite's entire line is designed to specifically support the health, performance, and recovery of high performers. Each product is formulated using research-supported ingredients and dosages using the highest quality ingredients, so you can be confident that every product you take will deliver the maximal benefit and effect. Check out why Metabolic Elite's Liposomal Tablet delivery system is a game-changer: LPT White PaperSave 15% using the code 'neeld15' at checkout here: Metabolic EliteMy personal go-to's:To improve focus, decision making, and coordination: SynapsinTo improve inflammation and recovery: Tetra CurTo support the immune system and weight management: ViraxallTo improve digestive health: Max 12 Probiotic

In this episode, Vicki Bendus shares incredible insights into speed training for hockey, including:Key findings from her research on identifying the most impactful physical factors and related off-ice tests for on-ice speedSpeed profiling strategies to identify where a player ranks relative to their peers and what qualities they need to improve to maximize their speedSpecific training strategies players can use to improve their speedThe difference between acceleration and max velocity, how each impacts the game and different training methods to improve eachImportant age-specific considerations and how to maximize speed in older playersImpactful strategies to improve speed during the seasonEvolve with Vicki:New publication: Linear skating speed key performance indicators in ice hockey: global or cohort-dependent?Instagram: @VickiBendusTwitter: @VickiBendusSupporting High PerformanceMetabolic Elite's entire line is designed to specifically support the health, performance, and recovery of high performers. Each product is formulated using research-supported ingredients and dosages using the highest quality ingredients, so you can be confident that every product you take will deliver the maximal benefit and effect. Check out why Metabolic Elite's Liposomal Tablet delivery system is a game-changer: LPT White PaperSave 15% using the code 'neeld15' at checkout here: Metabolic EliteMy personal go-to's:To improve focus, decision making, and coordination: SynapsinTo improve inflammation and recovery: Tetra CurTo support the immune system and weight management: ViraxallTo improve digestive health: Max 12 Probiotic

Welcome to episode 0 of the Evolving Performance Podcast!As a quick introduction, my name is Kevin Neeld, and I’m currently the Director of Performance for the Boston Bruins. Prior to working in pro hockey, I spent time with USA Hockey’s women’s national team, and as a director at a private sports training facility working with athletes across a wide range of levels and sports. In 2020, I got my PhD in Human and Sport Performance and continue to stay actively engaged in research through serving on committees for master’s and doctoral students. The goal of this podcast is to identify topics that can have a meaningful impact on an athletes performance, their durability, their adaptation to training and their career longevity – and to bring on experts on those specific topics to help share practical insights that athletes and people working with athletes can start implementing immediately. I’ve been very fortunate across my career to network with some incredible performance coaches, rehab and medical professionals, researchers and educators, athletes and coaches that we’ll welcome as guests on the podcast so you can benefit from their knowledge and experience like I have. One of my other big goals with this is to involve you as much as possible. It’s important to me that the guests I bring on and the information shared on the podcast are actually helping you. As the listener, you will have a say both in what guests come on and what topics and questions we discuss. To start, I’ll be posting these types of requests for guests or questions for specific guests through my Instagram account (@KevinNeeld) so be sure to give me a follow there to keep up to date. So if you’re an athlete or you work with athletes, this podcast is going to be a great resource to help you learn new or more efficient ways to keep evolving your game.