Train Fight Recover Podcast

Brett Batholomew from Bartholomew Strength and author of Conscious Coaching joins us on the show today to talk about coaching, strength and conditioning, his writing, and other projects. In Conscious Coaching, Brett takes on the realm of coaching and training athletes from different domains (pro, college, tactical, etc.). His experience gives a unique perspective into the principles and concepts of coaching. Conscious Coaching offers clear examples on how to develop and implement coaching concepts and principles for any sport or population. As you will hear in the podcast, Brett is prominent on the research and science behind how athletes think, react, and behave. However, there is need to acknowledge that there is a human element to coaching and Brett combines these factors in a way that is fun and easy to read. Jammed packed with information from veterans of the field, researchers, and experts Conscious Coaching is a must read for anyone in the strength and conditioning field. Show Notes 03:00 - Background Information on Brett and how he got into strength and conditioning and coaching.05:40 - Brett talks about when he got involved with Athletes Performance and how his master's degree helped open doors.09:40 - Brett talks about Consciousness Coaching and how he combined what the literature says and how to apply it, and how this irritates some people out there.18:42 - Team of Teams book and some of the problems of academia. We want to highlight that we love the research and the academics, but there is a human element that is just as important as the scientific aspect of training and coaching.20:38 - How do you see Consciousness Coaching helping tactical strength and conditioning coaches.23:60 - Brett talks about his new company The Bridge.26:16 - Context and environment shape behavior and how we can never fully peg how people act all the time.27:24 - We talked about the types of people who are in the tactical field and how it is important to get to know those different kinds of people as a coach.28:40 - Brett talks about his writing process for his book Conscious Coaching.32:44 - Brett gives suggestions and tips for those wanting to write. He mentions how he uses Microsoft OneNote for writing projects. https://www.onenote.com/ 35:00 - We wrap up the interview talking about Audible and how Brett needs to get Ray Porter to narrate his book. We talk about things Brett struggles with and what's on his radar for the future. 42:36 - Brett is an adjunct professor at the University of Marysville and doing a course on the book. He is all so working on an educational course on the intangibles of strength and conditioning. 44:00 - Brett is working on articles for the blog Simpli Faster. Check the website and his article. Resources: To purchase Conscious Coaching on Amazon. For more information on Brett Bartholomew and his service check out the following:http://bartholomewstrength.com Instagram @coach_brettb LinkedIn @ Coach Brett Bartholomew Facebook @bartholomewstrength Sign up for news and updates on the new site Brett mentions in the podcast: http://thebridgeperformance.com/ #bridgethegap

Aaron Zamzow has over 12 years of firefighting experience as an on-call paid firefighter in Golden Valley, Minnesota and is currently a career Firefighter/ EMT and Training Officer in Madison, Wisconsin.  He is the owner of Fire Rescue Fitness, a company that creates workout programs and fitness articles that focus on getting Fire Rescue Athletes "fit for duty." Aaron holds a Bachelor of Science degree in health and wellness, is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, a National Academy of Sports Medicine Certified Personal Trainer and an IAFF/IAFC Peer Fitness Trainer. He has also, worked in the fitness industry for over 20 years and has experience working with the general population as well as athletes from the NBA, NFL, and NHL. He is the author of The Ultimate Fire Rescue Athlete Workout and other fitness programs catered toward Fire Rescue Athletes and has recently been published in Firehouse, Fire Rescue Magazine, Firefighter Nation and in the PFFW (Professional Fire Fighters of Wisconsin) Quarterly.  In 2016 he presented at Firehouse Expo and Firehouse World.  At Firehouse Expo, Aaron headed and conducted the Firehouse "Fit for Duty" workouts and was a prominent speaker during the event. He has appeared on numerous radio and television programs and presents to Fire Departments all over the country.  He lives by and teaches the motto: "Train like a life depends on it." 00:20 - We begin the podcast by venting and talking about how HOA's are horrible. 02:21 - Aaron saves the conversation and relates the similarities between taking care of your house and taking care of your fitness/wellness. We mention Stuart McGill and his Big Three exercises for low back pain. Check out those exercises by going to backfitpro.com or youtube. 06:15 - We talked about stress, cortisol, and paying attention to life events that trigger stress.07:16 - Dr. Orr's and his research on police and heart rates during a shift.10:50 - Aaron talked about how he started in the tactical field and his work with strength and conditioning for firefighters.11:42 - Aaron mentions Dr. Kylie Ebersole of the University of Wisconson Milwaukee and his research on stress and cardiac reactions to firefighter calls. See articles by Dr. Ebersole on firefighters and fitness below. 15:10 - Cancer, strokes, and other health issues related to stress will continue to be a huge problem for tactical athletes until we start becoming more self-aware and making better health choices. 16:53 - Aaron discusses his primary focus for firefighter fitness and how he uses his programs to help get people and departments back into shape. 20:55 - Fit for Duty challenge - This runs once a year and any of the money Aaron gets from this he gives back to the firefighter communities. 24:24 - We compare how collegiate and professional athletes train for performance compared to tactical professionals and what has changed and what needs to change. 25:48 - What does the term tactical athlete mean and is it good for the field? What are some of the issues with getting a qualified person to run fitness programs? 37:04 - What are the components of fitness that we can all agree upon to help build a sound basis for a wellness program. 38:52 - The one thing tactical athletes fail to do that is the most important part of wellness and fitness. 42:16 - We wrap up the podcast with some rapid fire questions. To contact Aaron Zamzow, go to Fire Rescue Fitness or find him on Facebook by searching @firerescuefitness. Additional Resources: Cornell, D. J., Gnacinski, S. L., Zamzow, A., Mims, J., & Ebersole, K. (2017, April (2nd Quarter/Spring)). Measures of health, fitness, and functional movement among firefighter recruits. International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 23(2), 198-204. Gnacinski, S. L., Meyer, B. B., Hess, C. W., Cornell, D. J., Mims, J., Zamzow, A., & Ebersole, K. (2016). Understanding the psychology of firefighting: An examination of psychological skills use among firefighters. Journal of Performance Psychology, 9, 1-24. Cornell, D. J., Gnacinski, S. L., Zamzow, A., Mims, J., & Ebersole, K. (2016). Influence of obesity on movement efficiency among firefighter recruits. WORK, 54(3), 679-687. Gnacinski, S. L., Ebersole, K., Cornell, D. J., Mims, J., Zamzow, A., & Meyer, B. B. (2016). Firefighters’ cardiovascular health and fitness: An observation of adaptations that occur during firefighter training academies. WORK, 54, 43-50. Gnacinski, S. L., Meyer, B. B., Cornell, D. J., Mims, J., Zalewski, K. R., & Ebersole, K. (2015). Tactical athletes: An integrated approach to understanding and enhancing firefighter health and performance. International Journal of Exercise Science, 8(4), 341-357. Cornell, D. J., Ebersole, K., Meyer, B. B., & Zalewski, K. R. (2015). Relationships between extraversion and measures of counter movement jump performance. International Journal of Sports Science, 5(3), 73-79. Cornell, D. J., Gnacinski, S. L., Langford, M. H., Mims, J., & Ebersole, K. (2015). Backwards overhead medicine ball throw and counter movement jump performance among firefighter candidates. Journal of Trainology, 4(1), 11-14.

Jeff Nichols joins us on the show to talk about the essentials of strength training and conditioning for tactical professionals. We were super stoked to have Jeff take the time to chat with us because of a couple of reasons. Not only was he a member of the Navy SEALS, but Jeff is also one of those rare people who has been able to achieve the educational and research background to go along with his experiences on the teams. Before his military career, Jeff served as the Assistant Strength Coach at Troy University, where he earned his BS in Exercise Physiology. You will find in the podcast that Jeff is extremely dedicated to the men and women who serve our country. Where some strength coaches focus on getting in the gym and crushing workouts, Jeff promotes the essentials strength and conditioning training, like recovery, wellness, and general fitness, and reminds us that there is more to fitness and performance than hitting the weights. Some of the topics discussed are: 1. Where is the strength and conditioning field for tactical professionals going in the next five to ten years? 2. Why tactical professionals are the one group who needs human performance training more than anyone else. 3. Once you make it through selection, whats next? How should you be training? The difference between selection and deselection. 4. The pandemic of noncombat related injuries in the tactical communities. 5. What Jeff would do when the zombie apocalypse occurs. 2:24: Jeff describes his role in building strength and conditioning programs to educate and create resiliency for tactical professionals through the Preservation of The Force Program and its previous title, the Human Performance Program. 4:32 – Jeff talks about one of the original strength and conditioning coaches, Boyd Epley, and how during the 80’s these coaches were ahead of their time. Fast forward 30 years and the tactical athlete field is looking a lot like the state of strength and conditioning during the 80’s. 8:56 -“A lot of great progress is born out of necessity.” The changes in the army toward making the CSCS an MOS and the need for shifts in the way we train tactical professionals and athletes. 11:44 – Why tactical professionals are the one group who needs human performance training more than anyone else. College and professional sports need human performance training, however, think about the average career length of most semi and pro athletes when compared to a police officer or firefighter. 14:26 – The one thing holding back progress in strength and conditioning for tactical athletes. 21:15 – Once you make it through selection, whats next? How should you be training? The difference between selection and deselection. 24:14 – We discuss one of the most important, but most often neglected parts of training. 29:02 – Getting away from “Go do this because I said go do it,” and answering the why? Why do we do what we do? 31:15 – We discuss fitness standards and the impact of the debacle of a court case in Colorado Springs. http://denver.cbslocal.com/2015/11/10/female-springs-officers-win-lawsuit-no-longer-have-to-take-physical-fitness-tests/ 34:48 – The pandemic of noncombat related injuries in the tactical communities and how focusing on the essentials of strength and conditioning can reduce injuries and save lives. 37:45 – One of the biggest problems is getting the chain of command on board with a wellness program. We discuss these issues and examples of success. If you are a strength coach and need info on the money saved by wellness programs, send us an email at walker@trainfightrecover, and we will get you some data to use when talking to your department, unit, or agency. 41:43 – End the show on a positive note with some questions on Jeff’s daily routine, the zombie apocalypse, things he is not good at, and how to track Jeff down for more information. You can reach Jeff through his youtube page and Instagram account. Jeff shares a lot of information on strength and conditioning so make sure to follow him on social media. Check out the links below. Check out Jeff’s youtube page (@jeffcscs) Instagram page (@jeffcscs) More articles and podcasts with Jeff: The Jugglife Podcast JEFF NICHOLS: HOW TO PREPARE YOUR BODY FOR THE ULTIMATE PERFORMANCE Bridge: Sleep and Recovery, with Jeff Nichols

Today we speak with Dr. Orr about the tactical fitness field and his research on load carriage. Dr. Orr is one of the leading experts in fitness for tactical populations with experience training numerous populations. Check out the work his team is doing by going to Bond University. Dr. Robin Orr is an Australian Army veteran who served over 23 years in the Australian Regular Army as an Infantry soldier, Physical Training Instructor, Physiotherapist and human performance officer in postings ranging from tri-service training institutions to operational units and special operations command. Although still in the Australian Army Reserve, Rob is now working at Bond University in Australia as an Associate Professor of Physiotherapy and as the Co-Lead of the Tactical Research Unit. With a doctorate in Tactical Load Carriage and over 50 peer reviewed tactical research publications, Rob’s research spreads the tactical spectrum from military to law enforcement to fire and rescue on topics ranging from strength and conditioning to specialist selection and rehabilitation. Dr. Rob Orr 2:49 - What is your primary focus or research in the field of tactical fitness? - Swing back towards strength training and rehabilitation. - A lot of focus on selection training and push for fitness and wellness. - One of the problems facing law enforcement is that officers tend to lose their fitness levels after the academy. 6:55 - Dr. Orr explains the issues with load carriage and the problem with conditioning for load carriage. 10:20 - What the research says on how to train frequency, volume, and intensity in your load carriage program. 15:44 - Dr. Orr talks about total body strength and conditioning for rucking. 16:56 - Dr. Orr explains the importance of focusing on the why when training for load carriage. 21: 53 - When implementing a strength and conditioning program for load carriage, it is important to understand your gear and how that can affect your training and performance. 27:20 - Dr. Orr's opinion on where the field of strength and conditioning for the tactical professional is going in the next five to ten years with concerns about data collections, technology, and focusing on the human system. 33:43 - Research on police officers and the metabolic costs while sitting and driving to calls. 35:00 - Dr. Orr's advice to new strength and conditioning coaches entering the field. 44:18 - We ask Dr. Orr what advice he wishes he never listened to concerning strength and conditioning. 47:44 - Dr. Orr explains one thing that he struggles with day to day. 51:13 - Dr. Orr explains what he would be doing if he wasn't in this field of work. 54:57 - What would Dr. Orr do if the zombie Apocolypse was here? People and other highlights mentioned in the episode: Dr. Jay Dawes - Check out a CEU approved course on Speed Training at Elite Sports University. Dr. Robert Lockie Dr. William J. Kraemer Lieutenant Colonel Stephan J Rudzki International Congress on Soldier's Physical Performance: Dr. Orr mentions this conference in the podcast. Article on reducing injuries related to load carriage. Article on injuries and recovery for tactical populations. You can find Dr. Rob Orr and more information on his work and research by going to Bond University and checking out his LinkedIn page.

Ben Freakley is our guest today, and we will be discussing the roles of a performance psychologist and how he or she can use coaching techniques like mantras, visualization scripts, and breathing exercises to improve the performance of tactical athletes and first responders. We enjoyed this episode because the suggestions and tips Ben talks about can be applied to everything in life. Ben is incredibly humble and insightful, and you will see that he truly admires the men and women who serve our country and communities. Ben Freakley is the founder of Ready.Set.Resilient© and currently works for the Toronto Blue Jays as a mental performance coach. For over 15 years he has been helping individuals, athletes, teams, soldiers, and businesses improve individual and collective performance. Along the way, Ben has been a head soccer coach at the PDL and NCAA Division I level, a mental performance coach for special operations forces and general manager for a sports club with over 1100 members. He has consulted over 15 different university athletic teams across the country on leadership, culture and team dynamics. Additionally, he has worked with businesses providing team building events and motivational speaking and consulted hundreds of individuals motivated to achieve success in 1 on 1 settings. In 2016 Ben was a keynote speaker at the Southeast Regional Applied Association of Sport Psychology Conference (AASP) as well as inducted into The Georgia Southern University Alumni Association 40 Under 40 Class out of 33,000 alumni under the age of 40. He is a national staff instructor with the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) and presented at the 2017 NSCAA Convention on “Developing The Mindset of a Master Coach.” Ben holds masters degrees in Sport Psychology and Sport Management from Georgia Southern University where he was a NCAA Division I athlete. Topics of discussion: How to achieve the best blend of physical and mental performance by acknowledging the relationship between pressure and performance. Working towards understanding the factors that can lead towards improved or hindered performance. Using goal setting, breathing techniques, progressive muscle relaxation techniques, not falling into the trap of comparing yourself to others, and always looking towards becoming the best version of yourself. Ben describes how his process and application of mental skills training by listening to his clients and building rapport. Similar to a strength coach asking a player about his prior weightlifting experience, Ben asks questions on what goals they are hoping to accomplish, what are their motivations, and what is their role on the team? Change takes time, and Ben explains how he encourages his clients to stick with the program by being up front about the challenges and the time required to be successful. The two things that wreck performance and how breathing techniques, mantras, and visualization scripts improve your skills and lower anxiety before a stressful situation. What are the common characteristics of the mentally tough? Ben mentions an Israeli Defense study on motivation. Click here to read it. Check out Ben Freakley's website, benfreakley.com, for more information.

Bio - Major Donny Bigham is in his 23rd year as a member of the Armed Forces (Marines and Army). Bigham has served in every position in an infantry rifle company. He worked as the Strength and Conditioning Coach at the US Army Physical Fitness School from 2014 to 2016. He currently serves as the deputy director and strength and conditioning coach for the Human Performance Office at Fort Benning, Georgia. He is the Owner and Performance Coach of OneTime Powerlifting, as well as an RSP Sponsored Athlete for Powerlifting. Certifications and Education: Bigham earned his Bachelor of Science degree in physical education from University of South Carolina and his Master's degree in Sports Management with a concentration in Coaching Theories from American Military University. NSCA Certified in the following: CSCS, CPT, TSAC-F, FMS, KFit, TRX 2017 NSCA TSAC-F Coach of the Year Head Varsity High School Baseball Coach (5 years) Powerlifting Milestones: 2x IPF World Champion, 3x IPF National Current IPF World Record Holder in the M1 (40-49) 83kg Squat Currently holding numerous American, National and State Records in the 83 and 93 kg class in the USAPL. Won 2 golds in the NAPF World Championships in US Virgin Islands on August 15-19, 2016. In this episode, we discuss the following questions and topics with MAJ Don Bigham: What is your role at Fort Benning and how long have you been located there? Who do you work with and what is the nature of your work on an average day? Explain to us and our listeners the big issues you see with new military operators in terms of performance issues. What is your own background in education, certification, sports training and competition? How can our listeners interested in reaching out to you about career support, tactical training advice, or powerlifting do so? For more information or to contact and training, check out the following links: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/onetimepowerlifting Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/donald.bigham.3 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onetimepowerlifting/ Email: Donny@onetimepowerlifting.com

Bryan Fass is a leading expert on public safety injury prevention and public safety fitness. As the president and founder of Fit Responder he works nationally with departments, corporations, state and local governments to design and run scientifically valid injury prevention and wellness programs. Bryan authored the Fit Responder book used by departments and schools plus writes for numerous web and peer-reviewed journals including the National Strength & Conditioning Associations Tactical Strength & Conditioning journal, officer.com, ems-1.com, firerescue1.com, Fire Engineering & JEMS to name a few. Bryan holds a bachelors’ degree in sports medicine with over 17 years of clinical practice, was a paramedic for over 8 years, and is certified as an Athletic Trainer (ATC, LAT), Strength Coach (CSCS. Fit Responder developed the nation’s first validated pre-hire Physical Abilities Test for EMS. On a personal level Bryan is an avid athlete and martial artist. For more info please visit our website www.fitresponder.com He put a LOT of info, research, live shots from his training and much more on his social media feeds: https://www.facebook.com/fitresponder/ Twitter @fitresponder https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-fass-268bb38

Guy Leahy- B.S. Telecommunications/Film, M.Ed, Health Physical Education and Fitness, ACSM-CEP Guy Leahy is currently serving as the Health Promotion Program Coordinator at Kirtland Air Force Base in Albuquerque, NM. Leahy is the author/co-author of over 40 articles/papers, including original research which has appeared in publications such as The Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, Tactical Strength and Conditioning (TSAC) Report, Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, Nature, Science and Scientific American. In this episode, Guy explains his day to day job with Air Force personnel and the current research he is involved with. With his extensive background in research and peer review paper submissions, we delve into areas of sports nutrition and dietary supplement use and safety in armed forces members. Some of the topics include: What are some of the challenges you faces working with those in the tactical professions? Getting started in your career and why you should take that first job offer when trying to get into the strength and conditioning field. Guy mentions Science Daily as his daily source of info on everything science. Check out ExRx.net for a ton of information on exercise prescription. Injury prevention and the effect of injuries on operational readiness. Guy mentions a book by David Epstein : The Sport Gene Job tasks and why it is important to have fitness tests based on those job specific tasks. Guy writes regularly for the Kirtland Air Force Base website. Here are links to his articles: Balance, agility training help prevent ankle sprains Healthy lifestyles work better than supplements Running myths busted The state of the supplement industry. Always check with someone who is an expert before taking any supplement. It is a supplement and not your foundation. Check out these websites to find out what supplements have been tested by a third party for quality: NSF Consumer Labs Labdoors Guy writes for the NSCA, but you will have to become a member to see his work. Go to the Kirtland Air Force Base website for more info on Guy Leahy. You can contact Guy at: guy.leahy.2@us.af.mil or go to the NSCA TSAC-F Group page where you can message him.

Dr. Theresa Larson, DPT, is the owner and creator of the San Diego based Movement-Rx, which provides top notch comprehensive human performance, wellness, and PT services to tactical populations and the general public. Dr. “T” is a former Marine Corps Engineer Officer and Combat Veteran. Theresa played professional softball in Italy as well as semi-professional softball in the United States, was an All- American Division I softball player at Villanova University, as well as a former Body-for-Life Champion. She is a CSCS and holds multiple additional certifications in in CrossFit, FMS, SGX, and USAW. In this episode we discuss mobility, movement efficiency, stability, and long term health and wellness of today’s tactical operator and first responders. For more information, check out Movement-RX or contact Dr. T’s team by visiting their about page. Here is a piece of their website on the services they provide: “At Movement Rx we focus on offering personalized movement based Human Performance, Physical Therapy and Wellness programs. With offerings tailored to individuals, fitness facilities, sports teams, and Corporate Wellness/Wellbeing initiatives, we customize our approach to help you achieve your goals and dreams. Your goals are the WHY that drives what we do! Movement Rx Program Options: 1) Are you a Gym Owner, Coach, or Athlete who needs mobility seminars, programming, and or a “Mobile Movement Doctor” to come visit your facility during the week? See our Facility Service Programs and Trainer Education Programs. 2) Are you an Individual who wants to eliminate pain or improve your overall wellness and performance? See our Services for Individuals. 3) Are you a Business Owner who wants to increase your employee’s health, productivity, efficiency and possibly reduce your health insurance premiums? Read about our Corporate Wellness Programs” Some of the apps we discuss in the show are listed below: Headspace - For those who are interested in getting started with meditation but have no idea where to begin. I have the paid service and use it to help get better sleep. Insight timer meditation app - I haven’t used this app but I hear good things. Check it out.

Tyler Christiansen- B.S., CSCS, D*, TSAC-F Tyler Christiansen is a veteran soldier currently working as the Tactical Strength and Conditioning (TSAC) Program Manager at the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). Christiansen has worked with tactical athletes in the Special Operations Forces (SOF) community, including the 7th Special Forces Group, a Special Missions Unit in the greater D.C. area, as the TSAC Coordinator at the NSCA, as an Exercise Physiologist at the Army Physical Fitness Research Institute, and as a contractor in Baghdad, Iraq. He is also a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist with Distinction (CSCS,*D), a Registered Strength and Conditioning Coach (RSCC), and earned the FMS and USAW certifications. In this episode we get right down to business with one of the pioneers in the field who leads the primary arm of the world authority and certifying entity for TSAC professionals within the NSCA. We get sneak peaks to all the latest information coming out with the NSCA-TSAC-F program and its growth, partnerships, the TSAC-F practitioner courses and the soon to be released TSAC-F textbook! Tyler also explains where the tactical strength and conditioning field looks to be going for the professional strength coach involved within this domain. **Update by the launch of this podcast the NSCA-TSAC-F Textbook is available for purchase. Find out more on the TSAC-F course at https://www.nsca.com/tsac-professionals/ Tyler can be contacted at tyler.christiansen@nsca.com Matt Thompson can be contacted at matt.thompson@nsca.com

Matt Wenning: Bio - Matt is the owner of the website Wenning Strength. Matt founded Ludus Magnus Gym with the goal of getting everyone stronger. He has numerous state and national records, a Masters Degree in Biomechanics, and a Bachelor's in Exercise Science. Matt knows strength and you should listen to what he has to say. Matt has all so trained numerous tactical units and is the “Director and Co-Founder of MAW, directing over 6000 troops in strength, conditioning and wellness for the U.S. Army, including Infantry and Ranger Divisions.” He is currently the Strength and Wellness Coordinator for Washington Township Fire Department’s 135 firemen. Matt has an awesome belt squat that can be ordered through his site. This thing is a beast and is especially good for those with low back issues. Check it out here. Check out some of Matt’s accomplishments: 2011 World Record Holder at 308lbs Former all time World Record Holder with 2665 lb total World record Raw Squat (no wraps) - 832 lbs World record Equipped Squat - 1197 lbs 2010 APF National Champion 2009 IPA National Champion UPA National Record Holder - Open Division In this episode, we discuss the following questions and topics with Matt: What do you see as the most significant issue with tactical operators that needs tending to? What is the best piece of advice you would give operators right now to better their intentions and efforts in training? Tell us about your tactical training manual and your conjugate training DVD set would you? What kinds of training and resources do you offer operators and coaches looking for more information and or credentials? For more information on Matt Wenning and training, check out the following links: https://www.wenningstrength.com/ Contact Information: Email Matt @ realmattwenning@gmail.com

ATTENDEES Ben Carter/ Josh Hockett / Walker Show Notes Ben Carter from TRX: Bio - After graduating from UC Davis in 2006 with a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Biology, Ben Carter enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and graduated from boot camp as the Company Honor Graduate. He served as a Reconnaissance Marine with 3rd Recon Battalion in Okinawa, Japan where his team trained in a variety of locations across the Pacific Theater, including Guam, the Philippines and Korea. In 2009, his unit deployed to Helmand Province, Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. It was here that Ben first discovered the TRX Suspension Trainer and used it on a regular basis. After being honorably discharged from the USMC in 2010, Ben started working for TRX and currently serves as the Government Sales Manager. In this episode, we discuss the following questions and topics with Carter: What do you see as the most important or useful part of TRX gear for tactical athletes? How can police departments, firefighters, and the numerous first responder agencies benefit from using TRX in their wellness programs? What options or equipment does TRX provide, other than the TRX suspension system, that military members have access to use while overseas? What’s next for TRX in terms of education and equipment? Where can listeners find out more information about products and education for the TRX platform? For more information on TRX products and training, check out the following links: TRX Education: https://www.trxtraining.com/shop/professional-education TRX Education Course Schedule: https://www.trxtraining.com/course-schedule TRX Tactical Training Locker: https://www.trxtraining.com/products/trx-tactical-training-locker TRX Tactical Training Box: https://www.trxtraining.com/products/trx-tactical-training-box TRX Anchoring Solutions: https://www.trxtraining.com/commercial/shop/anchoring-solutions TRX Training Zone Solutions (NEW): TRX Bridge Solutions https://www.trxtraining.com/products/trx-training-zone-bridge-solutions TRX Bay Solutions https://www.trxtraining.com/products/trx-training-zone-bay-solutions TRX Functional Corner Solutions https://www.trxtraining.com/products/trx-training-zone-functional-corner-solutions Contact Information: TRXTRAINING.COM/MILITARY GOVERNMENT_SALES@TRXTRAINING.COM TRXTRAINING.COM BEN CARTER | 415-640-6382 | BCARTER@TRXTRAINING.COM MIKE SKAGGS | 415-307-1285 | MSKAGGS@TRXTRAINING.COM

ATTENDEES Lt. Col. Dave Grossman / Josh Hockett / Walker Show Notes Lt. Col. Dave Grossman: Bio - Lt. Col. Dave Grossman is an internationally-recognized author, scholar, soldier and speaker. He is one of the most sought after experts in the field of human aggression, the causes of violence and violent crimes. He is a former West Point psychology professor, Professor of Military Science, and Army Ranger. Using his experiences and knowledge of killing in war, the psychological costs of war, the causes of violent crimes, and the process of healing those who fall victim to violence, Col. Grossman coined a new field of scientific study termed “killology”. Col. Grossman is the author of the books On Killing: The Psychological Cost of Learning to Kill in War and Society and On Combat: The Psychology and Physiology of Deadly Conflict in War and in Peace. Col. Grossman presents evidence that humans have a fear of killing and committing violent acts. Therefore, soldiers must be specifically trained to not only kill, but learn and understand the physiological and psychological reactions before, during, and after using lethal force. Col. Grossman has presented at more than one hundred colleges and universities worldwide and is highly sought after for training law enforcement and first responders at the state and federal level throughout the United States and the worldwide. In this episode, we discuss the following questions and topics with Col. Grossman: How did you begin your research in the psychology and understanding of killing in war? Explain reality-based training and how it helps soldiers and first responders perform during high-stress situations. Is there a connection between how physically fit a soldier is and his or her ability to perform and recover from high stress situations? What are your suggestions for mentally and physically preparing soldiers and first responders for the job? What are your suggestions for those trying to recover from having to kill in the line of duty? For more information on Lt. Col. Dave Grossman, check out the following: http://www.killology.com/

ATTENDEES Sergeant First Class Tim Kennedy / Josh Hockett / Walker Show Notes Major Don Bigham: Bio - Tim is a professional MMA fighter who is currently in the UFC’s Middleweight division. Tim is currently a Special Force Weapons Sergeant in the Texas Army National Guard, but has served in the Army since 2003. Tim is Ranger qualified and has completed tours in Iraq, Afghanistan, and numerous locations throughout the world as a Special Forces Sniper. Tim is one of the co-owners of Ranger Up, a military-based clothing company. Check out his new website Sheepdog Response for information on training provided by Tim and his team on situational awareness and threat response. In this episode, we discuss the following questions and topics with MAJ Don Bigham: How Tim Kennedy is one of the most dangerous people in the world. No really. MMA training schools vs. Military hand-to hand combat systems. The reason you should focus on the fundamentals and basics of fighting. Tim’s company Sheepdog Response and the training they offer. What it means to be harder to kill. Why you shouldn’t show up to Tim’s house unannounced. Tim’s role in the horror/action comedy indie film Range 15 that was released on June 15, 2016. For more information or to contact, check out the following links: Range 15: http://www.range15.com Ranger Up Apparel : http://rangerup.com/?gclid=CNnI5cPrwNECFYRrfgod-fYH4Q Sheepdog Response: https://sheepdogresponse.com

ATTENDEES Derek Wester / Josh Hockett / Walker Show Notes Derek Wester: Derek Wester is a Program Manager for Fusion Sport, Business Development USA/Canada. Wester has his B.S. Health and Human Performance/Sport Management. He also holds his CSCS, CPT, USAW L1 certifications, as well as additional certifications in Russian Kettlebell and IFPA Fitness Facility Management. In this episode, we get techy and dive into the amazing world of sports performance, data analytics, athlete data management, and other growing performance technologies that are helping today’s coaches, trainers and tactical operators track and document their operators like never before. See why Fusion Sport is leading the way in this domain of sports and exercise science. In this episode, we discuss the following questions and topics with Wester: Explain to us and our listeners what Fusion Sport is and how it can help the performance and wellness of tactical operators (military, fire, paramedics, police etc…). What kind of training and support does Fusion Sport offer a user or organization that wants to implement this technology/system into its human performance or wellness program? How can our listeners interested in this service contact you or Fusion Sport to learn more or inquire about getting information on what you have to offer them? For more information on Fusion Sport and how it could help you, your organization, department or agency, check out the links below: https://www.fusionsport.com/ https://www.fusionsport.com/about/ Email: usasales@fusionsport.com

ATTENDEES John Hofman/ Josh Hockett / Walker Show Notes John Hofman: Bio - Coach John Hofman, CSCS, MS is one of leading experts in the field of Firefighter Health and Wellness. For the past 10 years, he was the Director and Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Sacramento Fire Department. There, he oversaw the Wellness Center, coordinated the department’s medical and fitness assessments, developed recruit fitness training, pre-employment medical and fitness evaluations and also assisted the department’s 20-certified Peer Fitness Trainers. Coach Hofman Co-founded 911 Tactical Performance, LLC, a comprehensive program focusing on injury prevention and performance training, specifically for First Responders. John is the author of BEYOND THE TURNOUTS: A Comprehensive Guide to Firefighter Health & Wellness. In this extensive manual, John discusses the risks associated to fire suppression, low back pain, and creating a comprehensive wellness program for your fire department. Coming Soon: John Hofman has teamed up with TFR to offer coaching service through the Train Fight Recover website. Sign up for our Fitness For the Fearless Newsletter for updates. In this episode, we discuss the following questions and topics with Hofman: How did you get into fitness and what were your influences that motivated you to pursue a career in this field? You talk about the physical, emotional, and mental demands of firefighting. Explain how you think the tactical athlete differ from the general athlete. Do you find resistance from departments when establishing a program or getting people involved? What is your approach to involving people? What do you think it takes to be a good coach? Management, or the “Brass,” see fitness as a way to address low morale within the ranks. They may give you the time to work out, but there is no programming or focus on performance training. Is this doing more harm than good or is it better than nothing? How do you accommodate the needs of a department of firefighters with different fitness needs? (Basic wellness exercise vs. performance training) Low back pain… WTF do I do about it? For more information on John Hofman, check out the following: http://www.911tacticalperformance.com

Show Notes In today’s show, we discuss the creation of TFR. This is a quick show introducing the hosts, as well as the goals moving forward with not only the podcast, but the website and online fitness training. For more information on TFR, check out the following: http://trainfightrecover.com NEXT WEEK’S PODCAST: Join us next week on the TFR Podcast for Special Guest Coach John Hofman, one of leading experts in the field of Firefighter Health and Wellness. John has served as the Director and Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Sacramento Fire Department. He is the Co-founder of 911 Tactical Performance, LLC, a comprehensive program focusing on injury prevention and performance training, specifically for First Responders. Hofman is also the author of BEYOND THE TURNOUTS: A Comprehensive Guide to Firefighter Health & Wellness. In this extensive manual, John discusses the risks associated with fire suppression, low back pain, and creating a comprehensive wellness program for fire departments. Coming Soon: John Hofman has teamed up with TFR to offer coaching service through the Train Fight Recover website. Sign up for our Fitness For the Fearless Newsletter for updates.