Podcasts about athlete development

Send us Fan MailYou can't talk a fighter into confidence. And if you've been trying, Andy Grahn has been quietly building it the right way for 30 years.Andy Grahn is a martial arts coach at The Academy MN in Minneapolis, a co-author of the 2024 ecological dynamics MMA paper in Sports Coaching Review, and one of a small group of combat sports coaches actively applying motor learning science to what happens on the mat. This conversation covers how he got there and what it actually looks like in practice.Competence before confidence: Why telling athletes to "just be more confident" doesn't work, and what the ecological approach says about how confidence actually developsAlive training in combat sports: What representative practice looks like in an MMA gym, how Andy navigates the line between safety and specificity, and why sparring is still the anchorThe partner probability paradox: How to design practice when you don't have the right training partner, and what constraints-led coaching looks like when the pairing isn't idealJKD to ecological dynamics: The philosophical thread connecting Bruce Lee's framework to Gibson's ecological psychology, and how Andy's background primed him for the shiftWriting the paper: What it was like to co-author peer-reviewed research as a practitioner alongside Keith Davids and the rest of the teamFor coaches in any sport trying to build real skill, not just clean-looking technique.

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – Introduction  01:30 – The #1 challenge Nick faces working with young athletes: consistency, not knowledge  03:30 – How Nick structures the initial intake meeting  06:00 – Getting athletes to buy into the "why" behind the plan  08:00 – Experimentation and the A/B test approach to building habits  10:00 – Building trust — and playing mediator between athletes and parents  12:00 – Earning your seat at the athlete's table  14:00 – The counseling side of being a dietitian — and why it matters more than the science  18:00 – Parents texting at 2am — and what Nick does with that  20:00 – Nick's background as a college baseball catcher at Mercy College and Queens College  24:00 – Two serious injuries and how they led him to nutrition  27:00 – Florida State, interning with Eric Cressy at CSP, and spring training with the Blue Jays  30:00 – Why young athletes can spot someone who doesn't care — and why it matters  33:00 – Starting with the school day: building structure where it already exists  36:00 – Adapting to weekends, tournaments, and travel  40:00 – Progress isn't pass/fail — it's an investment  43:00 – A Division I catcher, one flat week, and Nick's response: "And?"  46:00 – Finding motivation for the next goal after goal A is achieved  51:00 – Autonomy, competence, relatedness — and why all three have to be present  54:00 – What mental performance and nutrition have in common  55:00 – Nick's final message to every high school athlete: don't wait

Africa Melane speaks to cycling community member Jaco Scholtz about the City of Cape Town’s proposed redevelopment of the Bellville Velodrome. Early Breakfast with Africa Melane is 702’s and CapeTalk’s early morning talk show. Experienced broadcaster Africa Melane brings you the early morning news, sports, business, and interviews politicians and analysts to help make sense of the world. He also enjoys chatting to guests in the lifestyle sphere and the Arts. All the interviews are podcasted for you to catch-up and listen. Thank you for listening to this podcast from Early Breakfast with Africa Melane For more about the show click https://buff.ly/XHry7eQ and find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/XJ10LBU Listen live on weekdays between 04:00 and 06:00 (SA Time) to the Early Breakfast with Africa Melane broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3N Subscribe to the 702 and CapeTalk daily and weekly newsletters https://buff.ly/v5mfetc Follow us on social media: 702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/Radio702 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702 CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Send us Fan MailThe best pass rusher in NFL history didn't break the sack record because he's fast. He broke it while being double or triple-teamed on more than half his snaps.Shawn Myszka returns for the annual Mover of the Year episode. This year's pick: Myles Garrett of the Cleveland Browns. But this conversation isn't about stats. It's about what Garrett's movement actually tells us about dexterity, practice design, and how athletes solve problems under pressure.Dexterity vs. athleticism: Why raw physical tools don't explain Garrett's dominance, and what Bernstein's framework reveals about how he actually movesAbundance precedes adaptability: How having a wide range of movement strategies, not one elite technique, is what separates Garrett from every other pass rusherPerceiving to and through: How elite performers take in multiple information sources simultaneously, with examples from football, basketball, and combat sportsAdversity as a teacher: What Barry Sanders and Adrian Peterson tell us about how constraint-rich environments shape movement skill over timeWhat Movement Miyagi would do: Three specific practice design ideas for developing Garrett's perceptual and movement capabilities even furtherFor coaches working at any level, in any sport.Listeners of the podcast can receive 10% off the upcoming Sport Movement Skill Conference (June 5–6 in St. Paul, Minnesota) using the code Javi26 when registering.Shawn Myszka | Movement MiyagiFootball Beyond the Stats Blog2025 Mover of the Year: Myles GarrettEnhancing Skill in American FootballX | InstagramResourcesThe Adaptable AthleteEmergenceFree Modern Coach's Checklist Credits: Song- "Starstruck" by Freebeats.io Let's Chat!Twitter: @thecoachjavIG: @thecoachjav

This week Topher and Jeff talk with Phil Osaer, who played college hockey at Ferris State University, played over 12 years professionally, and then went on to have a great career in coaching and scouting for multiple NHL teams. He is currently the Director of Athlete Development at Suburban Sports Group.  In this episode we talk about: — Reduced accountability because kids can easily hop teams — How as a coach, you must “always be learning” — How the best coaches are curious about other sports & why — How to tell if a goalie has hockey sense AND SO MUCH MORE! Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar! And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! JOIN HTTU TODAY! HTT MERCH Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Cara Stawicki is a World Champion rower and high-performance coach who helps athletes and leaders build confidence, overcome self-doubt, and perform at their best. As a member of the U.S. National Team, she won gold at the 2019 World Rowing Championships and spent years training and competing at the highest level of international sport. Her journey wasn't linear—Cara has been open about the internal challenges she faced along the way, including confidence struggles and finding her identity within high performance. Those experiences now shape her work, where she focuses on mindset, self-awareness, and helping individuals create sustainable success from the inside out. Through her coaching, speaking, and programs, she works with athletes, teams, and leaders to develop self-trust and a more intentional approach to performance. ParentShift course 30% off with the code TRIBE. Link below: ParentShift (English): https://www.hernanchousa.com/courses/parentshift?ref=c23daa Entrena Tu Legado (Spanish): https://www.hernanchousa.com/courses/entrenatulegado?ref=c23daa Connect with Cara Stawicki LinkedIn: Cara Stawicki Website: carastawicki.com Instagram: @carastawicki You can explore more of Hernan's work on his website, https://www.hernanchousa.com/.

Want to get even more jacked? Grab the RP Hypertrophy App for your training, and maximize your gym efforts with the RP Diet Coach App to nail your nutrition. Corey Lindner's Links: Instagram: corey_lindner OCB Team Page: Team Corey Conditioned Timestamps: 00:00 Intro and first-time guest welcome for Corey Lindner 05:21 Athletic background: track, high jump, and early lifting 10:15 Military and fire department experience 13:45 Transition into bodybuilding coaching 17:45 Going full time into coaching after losing the firefighter clearance 30:03 Coaching client breakdown: 95% female and how that shaped his approach 34:19 Meathead vs science-based: finding the middle ground on load and tension 47:00 How coaching detail changes from novice to advanced athletes 50:30 Why division-specific criteria matter, especially in women's classes 55:30 Where to find Corey and final wrap-ups

Send us Fan MailNBA shooting coach Dave Love has spent over 15 years working at the highest level of basketball, with the Phoenix Suns, Cleveland Cavaliers, Orlando Magic, Dallas Mavericks, and currently an Eastern Conference team. He's also one of the few practitioners at that level actively contributing to peer-reviewed research.In this episode, Dave and Coach Jav dig into why the pursuit of a repeatable, perfect shot is the wrong goal entirely and what coaches should be focused on instead. They break down the sandbox analogy, the PoST framework, how to design practice that actually reflects the game, and how to meet athletes where they are when introducing evidence-based methods.If you coach shooting at any level, this one is worth your time.Topics covered:No two shots are the same — and why chasing a repeatable shot is the wrong goalThe sandbox analogy — how Dave thinks about functional movement solutions and what it means to be in or out of the sandboxPositive and negative power — his framework for identifying what's actually causing a player to missThe PoST framework — how to periodize skill training the way you would strength or conditioningPractice design and the challenge point — using defenders with intention and building variability into every sessionMeeting athletes where they are — how to introduce ecological principles to players attached to traditional methodsListeners of the podcast can receive 10% off the upcoming Sport Movement Skill Conference (June 5–6 in St. Paul, Minnesota) using the code Javi26 when registering.Links:Dave's platform and newsletterResearch paper: "Skill Adaptation in Basketball Coaching" International Journal of Sports Science & Coaching, 2025Sport Movement Skill Conference (use code JAVI26 for 10% off)Dave on XDave on instagramPodcast websiteEmergenceCredits: Song- "Starstruck" by Freebeats.io Let's Chat!Twitter: @thecoachjavIG: @thecoachjav

Episode 447 of Airey Bros Radio features Coach Travis Floeck, Director of Cross Country and Track & Field at Colorado Mesa University.With over 20 years of coaching experience—including 14 years at the NCAA Division I level with Idaho and Oregon State—Coach Floeck brings elite-level insight into building championship programs, developing All-Americans, and recruiting high-character student-athletes.Since taking over at Colorado Mesa in 2024, Floeck has led immediate success:• RMAC Indoor Championships podium finish (Men 3rd)• NCAA Division II All-American (Teo Casados – 200m)• 45 new Top-10 marks in program historyIn this episode, we dive into:Building a winning culture in NCAA Division II track & fieldCoaching Olympians and NCAA All-AmericansRecruiting philosophy: talent vs. characterAthlete development, injury management & long-term growthRMAC competition and national-level standardsWhy Grand Junction, Colorado is a hidden gem for runners

Reid Meyer is a Certified Educational Planner (CEP) and co-founder of Athletes to Athletes (A2A), a platform dedicated to helping student-athletes navigate college recruiting, admissions, and the transition to collegiate sports. He also founded Play College Sports Abroad and works as a counselor at The Student-Athlete Advisors. Reid's own athletic path included playing baseball at Texas Tech University on scholarship before transferring multiple times due to poor academic and personal fit, eventually quitting the sport midway through college because of burnout and mental health struggles. He went on to earn his Bachelor's and Master's degrees from the University of Texas at Austin, focusing on sport development and youth sport policy. Today he uses those hard-earned lessons to guide families through the recruiting process with a holistic approach — emphasizing academic, personal, and financial fit in addition to athletics. Reid is SafeSport certified and holds professional memberships with IECA, TACAC, and NACAC. He is based in the Greater Houston area and continues to advocate for student-athletes through free webinars, speaking engagements, and personalized advising. ParentShift course 30% off with the code TRIBE. Link below:  ParentShift (English): https://www.hernanchousa.com/courses/parentshift?ref=c23daa Entrena Tu Legado (Spanish): https://www.hernanchousa.com/courses/entrenatulegado?ref=c23daa Connect with Reid Meyer LinkedIn: Reid Meyer Instagram: @reidmeyer Website: Join2A Website: The Student-Athlete Advisors You can explore more of Hernan's work on his website, https://www.hernanchousa.com/.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Dr. Brian Mann—one of the leading voices in strength and conditioning—dives deep into the evolution of modern training methodology, from the weight room to the classroom. Now a clinical associate professor at Texas A&M, Mann reflects on his transition from coaching to academia and how that shift has shaped his impact on the field.The conversation explores the foundations and future of velocity-based training (VBT) and autoregulatory progressive resistance exercise (APRE), including how Mann developed load-velocity profiling and why he would refine those models differently today. He breaks down the realities of applying these systems across athletes with varying maturity levels, especially in the modern era of NIL and the transfer portal.Beyond theory, this episode gets highly practical—covering hip strength development, the biomechanics behind squat vs. deadlift performance, and how limitations in mobility (like the soleus) can directly affect bar velocity and athletic output. Mann also shares insights from his time learning under elite coaches, emphasizing the importance of problem-solving over rigid programming.The discussion expands into mental performance, highlighting the role of coaching alignment, athlete anxiety in the age of social media, and lessons drawn from “Coaching Mental Excellence.” The episode closes with a forward-looking conversation on the limitations of current athlete monitoring technology, particularly IMUs, and what's needed to push the field ahead.This is a masterclass in bridging research and real-world coaching—packed with actionable insights for strength coaches, sport scientists, and performance professionals.https://youtube.com/@platesandpancakes4593https://instagram.com/voodoo4power?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=https://voodoo4ranch.com/To possibly be a guest or support the show email Voodoo4ranch@gmail.comhttps://www.paypal.com/paypalme/voodoo4ranch

On this episode of the TexasTrackDad Podcast, we lock in for a powerful conversation breaking down what it really takes to compete and succeed in today's track & field world.We dive deep into the athlete journey, from early development to high-level competition, and unpack the mindset, discipline, and sacrifices required to reach the next level. This episode also highlights the recruiting process, giving real insight into how athletes can stand out, get noticed, and capitalize on opportunities.Whether you're grinding through workouts, preparing for your next meet, or trying to get on a college coach's radar—this episode is full of game you can apply immediately.The reality of the recruiting processBuilding confidence & mental toughnessStaying consistent when results don't come fastLessons learned from competing at a high levelAdvice for unsigned seniors trying to get exposure✔️ Unsigned seniors looking for opportunities✔️ Track & field athletes chasing PRs✔️ Parents navigating the recruiting process✔️ Coaches developing the next generationIt's bigger than times on the clock—this is about opportunity, exposure, and legacy. Stay ready so you don't have to get ready.Follow the TexasTrackDad Podcast for athlete spotlights, recruiting tips, and real conversations with athletes and coaches from across the country.

Send a textIn this episode, Coach Jav sits down with Steve Whalen to explore his journey into coaching, his shift toward ecological dynamics, and what it means to truly design learning environments that transfer to competition.Steve shares how he entered tennis coaching from a non-traditional background, the tensions he experienced within traditional coach education, and the turning points that led him toward a constraints-led approach. The conversation unpacks why players who look sharp in practice often struggle in matches, how coaches can better understand learning and performance, and what it takes to bridge the gap between research and real-world coaching.They also discuss Steve's work mentoring coaches globally, his upcoming research in ecological dynamics, and the broader direction of modern coach education.The upcoming Sport Movement Skill Conference (June 5–6) is also discussed  you can learn more and register hereIf you're looking for a practical starting point for designing more effective sessions, download the Modern Coach's Practice Checklist and check out thecoachjav.com for more resources! Episode ResourcesSteve's websiteSteve on Instagram 2026 Sport Movement Skill Conference (SMSC) Modern Coach's Practice Checklist - Free coaching guide The Adaptable Athlete PodcastEmergenceSupport & ContactIf you enjoyed today's episode, leave a review and share it with another coach or athlete who'd appreciate it. You can reach Coach Jav on social media at @thecoachjavor by email at javier@emergentmvmt.comCredits: Song- "Starstruck" by Freebeats.io Let's Chat!Twitter: @thecoachjavIG: @thecoachjav

Luke Zaientz is an Operating Partner at Rally Ventures and CEO of OTTO SPORT AI, an AI-powered platform simplifying youth sports management for athletes, families, coaches, and admins. Previously, he founded, served as COO, and CEO of Reigning Champs, a student-athlete recruiting platform that grew from inception to over $200M in annual revenue before being acquired by IMG Academy. With a B.S. in Economics & Transportation from Northeastern University and a Master's in Engineering Logistics from MIT, Luke has deep expertise in strategy, scaling, and operations, focusing on tech solutions for sports and education. Based in the Los Angeles Metropolitan Area, his work emphasizes removing friction in youth sports through tools like club management, tournament ticketing, and athlete recruitment, fostering connections and insights to help young athletes thrive. ParentShift course 30% off with the code TRIBE. Link below:  ParentShift (English): https://www.hernanchousa.com/courses/parentshift?ref=c23daa Entrena Tu Legado (Spanish): https://www.hernanchousa.com/courses/entrenatulegado?ref=c23daa Connect with Luke on LinkedIn: Luke Zaientz OTTO SPORT AI Links: Website: https://www.ottosport.ai/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ottosportai/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ottosportai/ You can explore more of Hernan's work on his website, https://www.hernanchousa.com/.

Send a textIn this episode, Coach Jav sits down with Emergence co-founder Shawn Myszka to preview the 2026 Sport Movement Skill Conference (SMSC). They unpack this year's theme — “Challenge Point” — and explain why the conference will feature debate-style matchups between leading voices from differing theoretical foundations.The conversation explores why now is the right time to bring contrasting coaching philosophies back to the table, how intellectual sparring can sharpen clarity, and what attendees can expect from both the debates and hands-on practical sessions.From matchups like Shawn Myszka vs. Tony Villani , Tyler Yearby vs. Jeff Moyer and Jav vs. Tony Holler, to practical sessions spanning MMA, baseball, team sport environments, and Olympic preparation, this year's SMSC aims to challenge assumptions while fostering connection.The 9th Annual Sport Movement Skill Conference takes place June 5–6 in St. Paul, Minnesota.Don't forget: The Modern Coach's Planner is now back in stock!!  Get it here   ResourcesSport Movement Skill Conference 2026Certified Skill Acquisition Specialist (CSAS) InformationPodcast WebsiteEp. 110 with Shawn Support & ContactIf you enjoyed today's episode, leave a review and share it with another coach or athlete who'd appreciate it. You can reach Coach Jav on social media at @thecoachjavor by email at javier@emergentmvmt.comCredits: Song- "Starstruck" by Freebeats.io Let's Chat!Twitter: @thecoachjavIG: @thecoachjav

Send a textRecorded 12/30/25In Part 2, the conversation dives deeper into elastic speed, force production, and long-term athlete development. Steven and Brandon break down how true speed is built through the integration of acceleration mechanics, plyometrics, and strength training — not just weight room numbers.They discuss how to identify whether an athlete is elastic-dominant or strength-dominant, how to program accordingly, and why broad jumps, resisted sprints, and intent-driven lifting matter more than traditional metrics.The episode also explores the evolution of sport performance, the dangers of over-coaching, and how developing adaptable, resilient athletes is the future of training.https://youtube.com/@platesandpancakes4593https://instagram.com/voodoo4power?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=https://voodoo4ranch.com/To possibly be a guest or support the show email Voodoo4ranch@gmail.comhttps://www.paypal.com/paypalme/voodoo4ranch

David Murray is an acclaimed journalist, author, and sports parent who chronicled his family's deep dive into competitive youth soccer in his upcoming memoir Soccer Dad (Disruption Books, April 2026). A self-described soccer-ignorant father, David watched his daughter Scout's passion for the game pull the entire family into the intense world of travel soccer, college recruiting, and Division I athletics at Ohio University. Through funny, vulnerable storytelling, he explores the joys, frustrations, and life lessons of being a sports parent in today's high-stakes environment. David has shared his insights on numerous podcasts and in publications like The Washington Post and Youth Inc., offering a refreshing perspective on unconditional support, avoiding “coach mode,” and finding balance in the chaotic beauty of youth sports. He lives with his family and continues to write about parenting, sports, and the human experience.ParentShift course 30% OFF with the code TRIBE. Link below: ParentShift (English): https://www.hernanchousa.com/courses/parentshift?ref=c23daa Entrena Tu Legado (Spanish): https://www.hernanchousa.com/courses/entrenatulegado?ref=c23daaConnect with David on:Book Website: Soccer Dad by David MurrayFacebook: David MurrayInstagram: @writingbootsYou can explore more of Hernan's work on his website, https://www.hernanchousa.com/.

So who's really driving this machine?Today's guest, Paul Gamble, PhD, has spent his career preparing elite and international athletes. But after years inside professional sport, he started asking an uncomfortable question: Are we developing better athletes—or just burning kids out earlier?In his book, Sport Parenting, Paul introduces the idea of the Sport Parent, a powerful, often invisible force shaping sport more than governing bodies, or even coaches. Whether you're a parent, a former youth athlete or someone who still has emotional scars from PE class, this conversation hits close to home.We're talking about early specialization, the rise of “premature professionalism,” why modern kids are actually becoming less athletic, and how well-meaning adults may be trading their kids' long-term confidence and love of movement for short-term results.This isn't an episode about blaming parents. It's about unpacking how a culture obsessed with performance turns play into pressure—and what it costs kids, sport and, ultimately, all of us.Subscribe to The Shakeout Podcast feed on Apple, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you find your podcasts.Follow Paul on social media @PaulGamblePHD and check out his book, Sport Parenting 

In this engaging episode of the Matthews Mentality Podcast, host Kyle Matthews sits down with UFC Hall of Famer and former Light Heavyweight Champion Forrest Griffin. They discuss Griffin's storied career, including his time on the inaugural season of The Ultimate Fighter, his legendary fight against Stephan Bonnar, and his championship victory over Rampage Jackson. Griffin shares insights into his transition from fighter to Vice President of Athlete Development at the UFC Performance Institute, where he now helps shape the next generation of fighters. This candid conversation also touches on the challenges of making weight, dealing with injuries, and the psychological aspects of fighting, providing a comprehensive look at the life of a professional MMA fighter.00:00 Pushing Limits and Greed00:45 Introducing UFC Hall of Famer Forrest Griffin00:57 Inside the UFC Performance Institute01:27 Forrest Griffin's Role in Athlete Development02:38 Expanding UFC's Global Reach05:06 Challenges and Strategies in Training10:40 Forrest Griffin's Early Life and Career18:40 Transition from Football to Fighting34:12 Joining the Ultimate Fighter40:21 The Legendary Fight with Stephan Bonner41:36 Randy Couture and the Bonner Fight41:57 Mental Toughness in the Ring43:04 The Keith Judian Fight and Lessons Learned45:06 Winning the UFC Contract47:56 Becoming a UFC Champion55:06 The Challenges of Defending the Title01:01:52 The Evolution of MMA and Training01:07:56 Life After Fighting01:10:54 Forrest Griffin's Legacy and Reflections

Send us a textIn this enlightening episode of Living the Dream with Curveball, we sit down with Gary Thrapp, a dedicated youth sports specialist with an impressive 40-year career in managing youth sports. Gary has coached over 50,000 games and has been instrumental in the development of the premier youth sports facility, Beyond the Baseline. His mission transcends athletics; he focuses on cultivating better athletes and, more importantly, better individuals. Join us as we explore Gary's journey and his commitment to community engagement through free sports programs designed to remove financial barriers for young athletes. Discover the lessons he's learned as a parent and coach, the importance of leadership development in youth sports, and how he is reshaping the youth sports landscape by prioritizing skill development over competition. Gary also shares insights from his book, *The Wild World of Youth Sports*, which provides 150 strategies for parents to navigate the complexities of youth sports effectively. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that emphasizes the power of community, support, and the positive impact of sports on youth development. Learn more about Gary and his initiatives at garythrap.com and goingbeyondthebaseline.com. Support the show

Send us a textYouth sports were meant to build character, confidence, and connection—so why do so many families now feel pressure, burnout, and rising tension in the stands? In this powerful conversation, Joey Pinz sits down with longtime coach, Naval Academy graduate, sales leader, and author Darren Ault to explore what's gone wrong… and what we can still save.Drawing from 33 years of coaching boys and girls across multiple levels, Darren shares candid stories about the 1% of parents who disrupt the experience, the rise of entitlement in youth athletics, and how external pressures—from training culture to NIL money—have shifted motivations. Yet he also highlights the joy, growth, and lifelong relationships that make coaching worth it.From leadership lessons forged in the Navy to modern challenges on and off the court, this episode delivers heartfelt insight, humor, and hope for anyone who has ever been part of a team—player, parent, or coach.⭐ Top 3 Highlights

In this solo episode of the Champion Living Podcast, Doug Champion breaks down a problem that's quietly costing rodeo athletes careers, consistency, and longevity — the rodeo athlete development gap. Rodeo has never lacked tough athletes. What it lacks is structured development that prepares athletes to last. Drawing from his experience as a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) and years of coaching rodeo athletes at every level — from high school competitors to NFR qualifiers and world champions — Doug explains why toughness alone is no longer enough in modern rodeo. This episode covers: What the "rodeo athlete development gap" actually is Why rodeo has professionalized financially but not developmentally How load vs capacity explains most common rodeo injuries Why being "gym strong" doesn't always transfer to rodeo performance The role of nervous system fatigue, recovery, and travel stress Why random workouts and grinding harder often backfire How poor preparation shortens careers and limits earning potential What real athlete development should look like in rodeo Doug challenges long-held assumptions in rodeo culture while respecting the grit and toughness the sport was built on — making the case that better preparation, not more suffering, is the future of rodeo performance. If you're a rodeo athlete, parent, or coach who wants to: Stay healthier through long seasons Improve consistency Extend competitive longevity Understand how to train smarter, not just harder this episode will change how you think about rodeo training and athlete development. Because talent gets you noticed — preparation keeps you in the game.   This episode of the Champion Living Podcast is supported by: Hooey Official partner supporting rodeo athletes and western culture

Send us a textThe Modern Coach's Planner — built for coaches who think differently — Back!Order yours today at: https://thecoachjav.com/products/modern-coach-plannerIn this episode, coach Jav sits down with Rob Gray to explore what comes after the basics of ecological dynamics and the constraints-led approach.They discuss why “fundamentals first” thinking continues to persist in sport, how constraints can lose their effectiveness over time, and the difference between developing skill and maintaining it at higher levels of performance. Rob also shares practical insights from his work across multiple sports, including how to scale difficulty, design more representative practice environments, and avoid turning data into rigid technique prescriptions.This conversation is for coaches who are already experimenting with modern approaches and want to go deeper into how athletes actually adapt, learn, and perform.Don't forget: The Modern Coach's Planner is now available for pre-order at https://thecoachjav.com/products/modern-coach-plannerSupport & ContactIf you enjoyed today's episode, leave a review and share it with another coach or athlete who'd appreciate it. You can reach Coach Jav on social media at @thecoachjavor by email at javier@emergentmvmt.comResources & LinksRob Gray – The Advanced Ecological ApproachRob Gray's websiteThe Adaptable Athlete Podcast:EmergenceCredits: Song- "Starstruck" by Freebeats.io Let's Chat!Twitter: @thecoachjavIG: @thecoachjav

This week on the Science for Sport Podcast, Richard Graves is joined by Brian Roy, a strength and conditioning coach who has spent the past decade working at the sharp end of action and lifestyle sports, including Olympic BMX Freestyle. BMX Freestyle is still a relative newcomer to the Olympic programme, but its physical demands, injury risks and performance challenges are unlike almost any traditional sport. In this episode, Brian shares his unconventional journey into elite sport, from personal training and postgraduate study to travelling the world with BMX athletes on the global stage. Together, Richard and Brian explore what it really takes to prepare athletes for a sport defined by explosive power, aerial skill, high-impact landings and constant travel. Brian offers a refreshingly honest perspective on athlete buy-in, bespoke programming, and why traditional strength testing and rigid systems don't always transfer to non-traditional sports. This is a fascinating conversation for sports scientists, strength and conditioning coaches, and anyone interested in how performance support adapts when the sport doesn't fit neatly into a textbook. In this episode you will learn * The unique physiological and biomechanical demands of BMX Freestyle competition * How to prepare athletes for repeated 60-second, maximal-effort runs across a full competition day * Why traditional strength testing and gym-based metrics don't always translate to action sports * How Brian adapted training around constant travel, limited gym access, and athlete preferences * Practical strategies for building resilience and reducing injury risk in high-impact sports * Why athlete buy-in often comes from listening, adapting, and being present rather than enforcing systems * How emerging video and motion-analysis technology could shape the future of training in BMX Freestyle and similar sports About Brian Roy Brian Roy is a strength and conditioning coach with over 10 years' experience working in action and lifestyle sports. He holds a Master's degree in Kinesiology and Exercise Science and is currently undertaking further postgraduate study in Applied Sports Science Analytics. Brian has worked closely with elite BMX Freestyle athletes on the international stage, including those competing at the Olympic Games, and has developed a reputation for adaptable, athlete-centred training approaches. His work focuses on performance, resilience, and real-world transfer rather than rigid adherence to traditional testing models. Brian regularly shares insights from his work on LinkedIn and Instagram, where he discusses training philosophy, emerging technology, and lessons learned from working in non-traditional sports environments.

International athletes are changing the landscape of college and professional sports.In this episode of the Player Development Pod, I dive into international athlete development and the skills international student athletes gain through intentional player development.You will learn:Why development must start with the athlete's future goalsHow shared belonging increases engagement and trustWhy communication and feedback are non negotiableWhat international athlete growth means for the future of sportI also reflect on seeing Chu Godrick take the field with the Kansas City Chiefs and why moments like that reinforce the importance of development beyond the field.BOOK - Get YOUR copy of the Beyond The Field Player Development Guide: https://amzn.to/3TtnaA8 2026 Player Development Summit - https://www.btfprogram.com/pdsummit2026 Player Development Summit Sponsorship - https://forms.gle/vPucKVKaZmTVcLDq9Player Development Newsletter → https://substack.com/@btfprogram

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In today's episode, I sit down with James Maslow and UFC Hall of Famer Forrest Griffin, a former Light Heavyweight Champion whose career helped bring the sport into the mainstream. We cover the grind behind his rise, the standards he now upholds as the UFC's Vice President of Athlete Development, and why winning still hits harder than any paycheck. Forrest opens up about work identity, product integrity, and the value of surrounding yourself with people who stay steady when things get chaotic. James and I also break down leadership, teachability, and the pressure that comes with building teams that can thrive under real responsibility.

In this week's Q&A, John and Chris discuss the use of training with water based tools, how isometric lunges impact speed and protein supplementation. **John, Chris and many of the show's guests are NOT licensed healthcare providers & make NO claims to be. The information provided in this show is not intended to be medical advice & should not be misconstrued as such. You assume all risk & liability by implementing any of the information shared on this show. You should ALWAYS seek the opinions of a qualified healthcare provider in your state/country before using any of the information provided in this show*Chapters00:00 Welcome to the Starting Block Podcast02:58 Athlete Development and Training Insights06:09 The Importance of Female Athlete Training08:03 Evaluating Training Tools: Water-Filled Balls19:55 Iso-Extreme Lunges and Sprinting Speed29:39 Nutrition and Protein Recommendations

In this episode of the Conquer Athlete Podcast, hosts Jason Leydon, Tyler Cooke, and Ryan Bucciantini engage in a candid discussion about the coaching profession, the importance of professionalism, and the dynamics between athletes and coaches. They share personal anecdotes, rants about job applications, and insights into the challenges faced by coaches and athletes alike. The conversation emphasizes the need for accountability, effective communication, and the art of coaching in high-pressure environments, ultimately highlighting the significance of preparation and mindset in achieving success in competitive sports. Takeaways Coaches should research the organizations they are applying to. Professionalism in communication is crucial for job seekers. Athletes need to take responsibility for their training and feedback. Coaching is about providing the right cues at the right time. The athlete-coach relationship should foster independence and confidence. Individual design coaching requires accountability and communication. Athletes must be willing to adapt and change to improve. Coaches should avoid over-managing athletes during competitions. Effective coaching involves understanding the athlete's mindset and needs. Preparation and focus are key to success in high-stress environments. Topics The Art of Coaching: Insights and Anecdotes Navigating the Coaching Job Market   Sound bites "You better say something, Tyler." "I feel like we're in weird mood." "I don't want to waste your time."   Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Light Banter 03:01 Coaching Insights and Job Market Rants 05:53 Professionalism in Coaching Applications 08:37 Personal Experiences and Industry Challenges 11:42 Changes in Leadership and Coaching Dynamics 14:52 The Importance of Accountability in Coaching 16:07 The Challenges of Coaching Large Groups 17:40 The Role of Coaches in Athlete Development 19:20 Athlete Responsibility and Coach Education 21:21 The Importance of Adaptability in Athletes 23:55 The Dynamics of Coach-Athlete Interaction 25:57 The Art of Coaching in High-Pressure Situations 32:03 Finding Focus Amidst Competition Chaos 37:55 Conclusion and Future Discussions

Danielle Bollettieri, 57, is the daughter of legendary tennis coach Nick Bollettieri (1931–2022), founder of the renowned Nick Bollettieri Tennis Academy. Raised in the world of elite tennis, she assisted her father at the academy, running the elite group and traveling internationally with him, contributing to a close-knit community that produced champions like Andre Agassi and Monica Seles. A mother of three children—two daughters who played college tennis at St. John's University and Flagler College, and a son who attended the academy—Danielle emphasizes her father's motivational style, focusing on positivity, kindness, and doing one's best beyond just winning. Now based in Sarasota, Florida, she is restarting her life, returning to school, working out daily, and pursuing passions like animal rescue. Certified as an end-of-life doula for people and companion animals, Danielle supports compassionate transitions while advocating for health, nature, and family bonds. Her insights reflect a legacy of resilience, drawing from family reconciliation and her father's generous spirit in fostering young talent.ParentShift course 30% off with the code TRIBE. Link below: ParentShift (English): https://www.hernanchousa.com/courses/parentshift?ref=c23daaEntrena Tu Legado (Spanish): https://www.hernanchousa.com/courses/entrenatulegado?ref=c23daaConnect with Danielle on LinkedIn: Danielle BollettieriOther Social Media Links for Danielle:Facebook: Danielle Bollettieri Instagram: @akman.bollettieriYou can explore more of Hernan's work on his website, https://www.hernanchousa.com/.Music Production by Sebastian Klauer. You can reach him at klauersebas@gmail.com.

Do you have young athletes? Work with young athletes? Or just want to learn more about what young athletes are up against these days when it comes to their training, recovery and mindset? If so, you're going to love today's episode with Dave Gleason! Dave has been coaching young athletes for over 3 decades and […] The post Dave Gleason on a Holistic and Well-Rounded Approach to Young Athlete Development appeared first on Robertson Training Systems.

Former Indiana Pacers strength coach Shawn Windle joins the Movement Podcast to unpack 20+ years in the NBA and his evolution from athletic trainer to performance director. This episode explores the integration of sports science, the dangers of over-coaching, individualized athlete care, and the realities of modern NBA player development.Topics include:Early career challenges in a siloed sports cultureWhy HRV isn't practical in pro sportsReal-world vs. lab testingAchilles tendon injuries in the NBAYouth sports burnout and early specializationHow to earn trust and communicate across disciplinesUsing movement screening in daily performance strategyA must-listen for strength coaches, physical therapists, sports scientists, and anyone working in high performance environments.https://www.functionalmovement.comFunctional Movement Systems YouTube Facebook Instagram X (Twitter) Subscribe to the FMS Newsletter

Send us a textThe Modern Coach's Planner — built for coaches who think differently — is now available for pre-order. This is a limited run, and once these copies are gone, they're gone. Order yours today at: https://thecoachjav.com/products/modern-coach-plannerIn this episode, Coach Jav sits down with Greg Souders, founder of Standard Jiu-Jitsu, and DeAndre Corbe, one of the top grapplers in the world — the 2024 ADCC West Coast Trials champion and a recent competitor in the Craig Jones Invitational.They explore how an ecological and constraints-led approach is transforming the way athletes learn and perform in Jiu-Jitsu. Over the past few years, ecological dynamics has exploded — and Greg has been one of the leading voices behind that shift, challenging traditional methods and helping coaches rethink what real skill development looks like.Together, Greg and DeAndre unpack the realities of modern coaching — from designing representative environments to building communication, trust, and autonomy between coach and athlete.This episode is a deep look at how modern Jiu-Jitsu is evolving, and what happens when the athlete–coach relationship becomes a true collaboration.Topics DiscussedHow Greg and DeAndre built their coach–athlete relationshipTransitioning from traditional to ecological Jiu-Jitsu trainingCommunication, trust, and autonomy in coachingManaging competition prep and recoveryWhy “control isn't coaching” and how autonomy drives growthIf you're a coach or practitioner interested in skill acquisition, practice design, and building adaptable athletes, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.Don't forget: The Modern Coach's Planner is now available for pre-order at https://thecoachjav.com/products/modern-coach-plannerSupport & ContactIf you enjoyed today's episode, leave a review and share it with another coach or athlete who'd appreciate it. You can reach Coach Jav on social media at @thecoachjav or by email at javier@emergentmvmt.com.Resources and LinksStandard Jiu-Jitsu: https://standardjiujitsu.comStandard Jiu-Jitsu on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/standardjiujitsu?igsh=MWN5endrZTVud3RwMw==Greg Souders on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gdsouders?igsh=N2VtcjJyMXgwcW82DeAndre Corbe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deandre_corbe/Emergence – The Movement Academy: https://emergentmvmt.comEmergence on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emergentmvmt?igsh=Y2JuMm53c3N0bjZhThe Adaptable Athlete Podcast Website:  theadaptableathlete.comCredits: Song- "Starstruck" by Freebeats.io Let's Chat!Twitter: @thecoachjavIG: @thecoachjav

This week on the Science for Sport podcast, host Richard Graves is joined by boxing legend Johnny Nelson MBE, the longest-reigning cruiserweight world champion in history. With a story that spans early losses, a transformative mentorship under Brendan Ingle, mental resilience, structural discipline, and elite-level performance, Johnny offers a rare window into the mindset and preparation of a world-class athlete. From his humble Sheffield upbringing through a gritty apprenticeship in Europe to standing atop the world with 13 title defences, Johnny reflects on the physical demands of his sport, the mental architecture that carried him, and how those lessons translate into high-performance sport science environments today. Whether you're working with elite athletes, exploring pathway development, or investigating the interplay of mindset, culture and performance. This episode delivers actionable insight. You'll Learn * How deliberate structure and environment in the early years set Johnny's foundation for world-class performance, and what that means for athlete development pipelines in elite sport. * The interplay between physical conditioning and mental readiness: why Johnny argues that even 99% physical fitness isn't enough without mental strength to match. * How a coach/mentor adapted learning modality to individual athlete needs (story-based learning vs. written instruction) and how that insight translates to sport science practice. * The “apprenticeship phase” of elite athletes: why Johnny spent six years as a sparring partner across Europe, what he learned about failure, character-building and resilience, and how that maps to athlete development models. * The transition out of elite competition: Johnny's reflections on his own injury-forced retirement, loss of gym identity and how elite sport practitioners can support athlete exit and long-term wellbeing. * Practical take-aways on environment design, multicultural team culture, and creating performance contexts that simulate hostile or challenging conditions (drawing on Johnny's anecdotes of gym culture and travelling abroad). About Johnny Nelson Johnny Nelson (born 4 January 1967, Sheffield) turned professional in 1986 after a modest amateur career. He trained under iconic coach Brendan Ingle at the Wincobank gym in Sheffield, where he developed not only boxing skills but a mindset of relentless belief and self-validation. In March 1999 he captured the WBO Cruiserweight World Title and held it until his retirement in 2006—during which he defended it 13 times, the most ever in cruiserweight history. Post-career, Johnny has built a prominent role as a boxing pundit, keynote speaker, and mentor around mindset, resilience and high-performance culture. FREE 7d SCIENCE FOR SPORT ACADEMY TRIAL SIGN UP NOW: https://bit.ly/SFSepisode241 ​ Learn Quicker & More Effectively ​ Optimise Your Athletes' Recovery ​ Position Yourself As An Expert To Your Athletes And Naturally Improve Buy-In ​ Reduce Your Athletes' Injury Ratese ​ Save 100's Of Dollars A Year That Would Otherwise Be Spent On Books, Courses And More ​ Improve Your Athletes' Performance ​ Advance Forward In Your Career, Allowing You To Earn More Money And Work With Elite-Level Athletes ​ Save Yourself The Stress & Worry Of Constantly Trying To Stay Up-To-Date With Sports Science Research

Send us a text*Checkout the free practice guide at the end of the show notes!What is skill, really? And what if it's not something athletes acquire — but something they continuously adapt?In this episode, Duarte Araújo joins us on the pod to unpack one of the most fundamental questions in sport: what does it truly mean to be skillful? Duarte breaks down why “acquisition” is the wrong metaphor, and how coaches can design environments that bring intelligence and creativity to the surface.Together, we explore:The difference between being and becoming in sport performanceWhy skill should be viewed as potential, not possessionHow intentionality, perceptual attunement, and calibration shape learningWhat cognizant action means — and why movement itself is intelligentHow coaches can design tasks that challenge athletes to find their own solutionsWhether you're a coach, practitioner, or simply curious about how humans learn, this conversation reframes skill as an ongoing relationship between athlete and environment — not a product stored inside the brain.Have any questions form the Episode? Hit me up on social @thecoachjav or send me an email at Javier@emergentmvmt.com Download your Free Practice Design Checklist!Episode ResourcesDownload the Academic Papers from Duarte Duarte on Research Gate Duarte on XCredits: Song- "Starstruck" by Freebeats.io Let's Chat!Twitter: @thecoachjavIG: @thecoachjav

This week on the Science for Sport Podcast, host Richard Graves is joined by Dan Metcalfe, former youth footballer, West End performer, Olympic development coach, and now international keynote speaker and founder of Born Superhuman. Dan's story is nothing short of extraordinary. From a career-ending accident that left him paralysed and blind in one eye, to rebuilding his life, defying medical diagnoses, and going on to coach Olympic-level athletes. His journey is a masterclass in resilience, mindset, and human potential. In this inspiring conversation, Dan shares the philosophy that underpins his Born Superhuman method, revealing how mindset, breathwork, hydration, and self-belief can transform performance in sport and life. In this episode, you'll learn: * How Dan overcame paralysis and rebuilt his life * Why mental training is just as critical as physical training for peak performance * The seven pillars of Dan's Born Superhuman philosophy and how they apply to everyone * How reframing setbacks as “gifts” can unlock growth and success * Why elite athletes and CEOs alike struggle with the same mental blocks, and how to rewire them * The simple word change that helped Dan drop from 21% to 8% body fat without changing his diet * How hydration, sleep, and breathing directly impact focus and performance * The neuroscience behind belief, recovery, and human potential About Dan Metcalfe Dan Metcalfe is a performance and mindset coach, keynote speaker, and founder of Born Superhuman. His remarkable journey spans football, theatre, and elite sports coaching. After suffering paralysis and vision loss in a stage accident, Dan defied medical expectations and rebuilt his body and mind through sheer determination and psychological mastery. He went on to become Nike Youth Coach of the Year (USA), leading players into professional football and working across the US Olympic Development Program. Today, he helps elite athletes, business leaders, and teams unlock their full potential through his Born Superhuman framework, blending neuroscience, mindset, and performance principles to inspire extraordinary results. FREE 7d SCIENCE FOR SPORT ACADEMY TRIAL SIGN UP NOW: https://bit.ly/SFSepisode241 ​ Learn Quicker & More Effectively ​ Optimise Your Athletes' Recovery ​ Position Yourself As An Expert To Your Athletes And Naturally Improve Buy-In ​ Reduce Your Athletes' Injury Ratese ​ Save 100's Of Dollars A Year That Would Otherwise Be Spent On Books, Courses And More ​ Improve Your Athletes' Performance ​ Advance Forward In Your Career, Allowing You To Earn More Money And Work With Elite-Level Athletes ​ Save Yourself The Stress & Worry Of Constantly Trying To Stay Up-To-Date With Sports Science Research

Summary In this episode of the Conquer Athlete podcast, hosts Ryan Bucciantini and Jason Leydon engage in a lively discussion that ranges from sports rants and personal anecdotes to coaching philosophies and food preferences. They explore the challenges of individualizing coaching in group settings, the importance of understanding athlete needs, and the significance of creating an authentic coaching environment. The conversation is peppered with humor, personal stories, and insights into the world of fitness and coaching. Takeaways Hitting a baseball is considered one of the hardest tasks in sports. Fans often lack understanding of the complexities athletes face. Coaches should create an environment where athletes feel comfortable scaling workouts. Understanding individual athlete needs is crucial for effective coaching. Authenticity in coaching fosters better relationships with athletes. Food preferences can spark interesting debates and discussions. Consequences for actions are important in sports and life. Coaching should focus on movement quality and athlete enjoyment. Standardization in coaching can help maintain class quality. Creating autonomous athletes is a key goal in coaching. Topics From Strip Clubs to Coaching: A Wild Ride The Art of Individualizing Coaching in Group Settings Sound bites "You should get punched in the face." "You can only talk about it so many times." "Movement is the most important thing." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview 02:50 Sports Rants and Fan Reactions 05:52 Strip Club Stories and Personal Anecdotes 08:54 Discussion on Entitlement and Consequences 11:34 Food Preferences: Chili vs. Cheese Fries 14:12 Pop Culture References and Recommendations 15:45 Home Security and Personal Safety 16:23 Unexpected Encounters: The Thrill of the Unknown 17:52 Individualizing Coaching in Group Settings 22:22 The Art of Coaching: Balancing Structure and Flexibility 34:15 Creating Autonomous Athletes: The Goal of Coaching

In this conversation, Darren Hansen and Alex Gibson discuss the complexities of athlete development, balancing personal life with business, and the importance of foundational skills in sports training. They explore the misconceptions surrounding fitness in sports, the significance of speed and high outputs, and the role of coaches in guiding young athletes. The discussion emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to training that prioritizes long-term development over immediate results.Takeaways:Balancing family and business is a significant challenge for facility owners.Finding the right staff is crucial for running a successful training facility.Youth athletes often face pressure to perform at a high level too early.Foundational skills like coordination and balance are essential for athlete development.Speed and power metrics are critical for assessing athlete performance.Injury prevention should be a priority in in-season training.Fitness tests do not always correlate with on-field performance.High outputs in training lead to better performance and fewer injuries.Coaches need to understand the specific demands of the sport they are training for.Athletes should be encouraged to enjoy the process of training rather than focusing solely on outcomes.Chapters:00:00Introduction to Athlete Development2:35 Balancing Parenthood and Coaching5:28 Navigating Staff and Facility Growth8:23 The Importance of Coordination in Youth Sports11:07 Managing Expectations in Youth Athletic Development13:52 Understanding Outputs: Speed and Power Metrics21:58 The Evolution of Speed and Power in Sports27:10 Understanding Conditioning vs. Performance31:15 The Importance of High-Output Training38:14 Building Speed Reserve for Game PerformanceKeywordsathlete development, coaching, parenting, sports training, youth sports, speed training, injury prevention, foundational skills, athlete performance, coaching strategies

What if the real game isn't played on the field, but at home, in the way we raise, support, and speak to our kids? In this heartfelt episode, Craig Holman, former pro player and father of two elite athletes, joins Matt Antonelli to share the untold truth about youth and travel baseball. From watching his son Luke battle childhood cancer to seeing him become one of the nation's top prospects, Craig reveals how failure, faith, and love shaped both his family and his coaching philosophy. This isn't just about baseball -it's about building resilient, grounded humans in a culture obsessed with wins and exposure. Whether you're a parent, coach, or young athlete, this episode will change how you see youth sports and what truly defines success. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: Why “more exposure” isn't the same as development The single most powerful thing parents can say to their kids How to build confidence without pressure or comparison Why failure and struggle are essential for long-term success The life-changing difference between listening to your kids vs. for your kids How perspective-not performance-shapes greatness Craig shares unforgettable stories of parenting through adversity- including his son Luke's fight with cancer, his daughter's final at-bat, and how the “tennis ball moment” changed his understanding of effort forever. His insights remind us that the greatest wins happen off the field and that the true job of a parent-coach is to nurture purpose, not pressure. CALL TO ACTION: Subscribe for weekly coaching and real conversations about the mental, emotional, and developmental side of baseball. Comment below: What's the biggest lesson baseball has taught your family? LINKS & RESOURCES:  Follow the MVA Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@MostValuableAgent Bear Bryant's Prayer: “This is the beginning of a new day…” ABOUT MATT HANNAFORD Matt Hannaford is a 25-year veteran MLB agent who's represented MVPs, All-Stars, and first-round draft picks. Through the Most Valuable Agent podcast, he helps parents and players cut through the noise and focus on what really works. #YouthBaseball #BaseballParenting #CraigHolman #MVA #SportsParenting #AthleteMindset #BaseballDevelopment

Send us a textIn this episode, Steven Thompson sits down with Clay Bewley, Speed, Strength, and Conditioning Coach at Willow Canyon High School in Surprise, Arizona, and former coach at Estrella Foothills High School. With over two decades of experience coaching at the high school and collegiate levels — including Northern Arizona, Jacksonville University, Angelo State, UNLV, and Faith Lutheran — Coach Bewley shares powerful insights on athlete development, recruiting, and the evolving landscape of modern athletics.

Welcome to Season 14 Episode 38 of the ParentingAces Podcast! In this week's episode, Lisa is joined by Sam Parfitt, former top junior and collegiate player and the founder/CEO of The True Athlete Project (TAP).TAP has pioneered a holistic mindfulness-based approach that unleashes sport's potential to change lives across diverse contexts. They believe sport can play a powerful role in building a happier, healthier, more compassionate world. But too often, sport fails to live up to its potential, driven by a win-at-all-costs culture that dehumanizes people and leads to dropout, burnout, bullying, and disastrous mental health outcomes. TAP wants sport to be joyful and freeing, and to bring people together. They have become leaders in how to change the culture of sport, working with national and international governing bodies, community sports centers, schools, colleges, coaches, athletes, referees, and parents.Sam Parfitt holds an MSc in Sport Policy, Management and International Development from the University of Edinburgh, where he then became an associate tutor. His dissertation focused on the role of sport coaches as social change-makers. He is a certified mindfulness teacher and a USPTA professional tennis coach with experience coaching all ages and standards - from total beginners to internationally-ranked juniors.​While Sam suffered with poor health during his time in the US, Sam endeavored to use his experiences in sport - both positive and negative - to help others. His academic work centered around sport and identity, and he became intimately involved in establishing projects which used sport as an agent for social change. He worked extensively within the context of sport for at-risk Hispanic youths and won multiple awards for his efforts, including the 2012 UTC and City of Chattanooga public service award and the Coleman Lew & Associates Leadership Award.After working within an NCAA Division I athletics department, he was appointed director of athletics at Saint Peter's School - an independent K through 5th school in Chattanooga, Tennessee. There, he had the chance to create his own athletics program around a set of ideals that would help the children enjoy a positive start to their sporting careers. The program included a novel parkour program, sports poetry, mindfulness, and brought the school into the news for his inclusive and innovative approach to the holistic training of young athletes.During his time at St.Peter's School, Sam was also an NCAA Division I women's tennis coach, helping to take the Mocs to their best record for over twenty years.Sam has also worked with the Mastercard Scholars Foundation and advises several NGOs. He has delivered mindfulness to Olympians and Paralympians across over thirty sports.If you're interested in learning more about The True Athlete Project, visit their website at https://www.thetrueathleteproject.org. You can reach Sam directly via email at sam@thetrueathleteproject.org.As always, I am available for one-to-one consults to work with you as you find your way through the college recruiting process. You can purchase and book online through our website at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://parentingaces.com/shop/category/consult-with-lisa-stone/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.If you're so inclined, please share this – and all our episodes! – with your fellow tennis players, parents, and coaches. You can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or via your favorite podcast app. Please be sure to check out our logo'd merch as well as our a la carte personal consultations in our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠online shop⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.CREDITSIntro & Outro Music: Morgan Stone aka STØNEAudio & Video Editing: Lisa Stone

This week on the Science for Sport Podcast, host Richard Graves is joined by Stuart Yule, Head of Physical Performance with the Scotland national rugby team. Stuart's career has spanned elite roles in football, hockey, and judo, before moving into rugby where he's been a driving force behind Glasgow Warriors' success and Scotland's rise on the international stage. Drawing on his unique background as a Commonwealth Games athlete, physiotherapist, and S&C coach, Stuart shares powerful insights into developing players who can thrive at the very highest level. This episode gives a rare behind-the-scenes look at how Scottish Rugby has evolved over the past decade and what it takes to prepare athletes to perform on the international stage. In this episode, you'll learn: * How Stuart's unique journey, from weightlifting in his dad's garage to competing for Scotland – shaped his approach to performance. * The key differences between preparing players at club vs. international level. * Why alignment across national pathways has been critical to Scotland's success. * How Scottish Rugby has raised physical standards and created a culture of continual improvement. * Lessons from other sports (including judo, athletics, and AFL) that are now embedded in rugby performance. * The importance of technical mastery, co-created training programmes, and athlete ownership in achieving world-class results. * How Scotland are preparing physically to compete with the best rugby nations in the world. About Stuart Yule Stuart Yule is Head of Physical Performance with the Scotland national rugby team. A two-time Commonwealth Games competitor in weightlifting, Stuart's career spans physiotherapy, strength & conditioning, and high-performance coaching. He has worked across football, hockey, and judo before joining Glasgow Warriors, where he played a pivotal role in their domestic and European success. Since 2017, Stuart has been a cornerstone of the Scotland national setup under Head Coach Gregor Townsend, helping raise performance standards and prepare players for the demands of test rugby. SIGN UP NOW: https://bit.ly/SFSepisode241 * ​ Learn Quicker & More Effectively * ​ Optimise Your Athletes' Recovery * ​ Position Yourself As An Expert To Your Athletes And Naturally Improve Buy-In * ​ Reduce Your Athletes' Injury Ratese * ​ Save 100's Of Dollars A Year That Would Otherwise Be Spent On Books, Courses And More * ​ Improve Your Athletes' Performance * ​ Advance Forward In Your Career, Allowing You To Earn More Money And Work With Elite-Level Athletes * ​ Save Yourself The Stress & Worry Of Constantly Trying To Stay Up-To-Date With Sports Science Research

Send us a textIn this episode, we sit down with Keith Caton, Head Strength Coach at Manvel High School, whose career spans 11 stops across collegiate and high school athletics, including powerhouse programs like Baylor, Auburn, Syracuse, Missouri, and Indiana.Coach Caton shares insights on:The transition from college to high school coaching and preparing athletes for the next levelProgressions, regressions, and protocols that build long-term athletic successThe role of technology, heart rate monitoring, and peripheral vision training in modern performanceBalancing speed, strength, recovery, and energy systems for both multi-sport and single-sport athletesHis experience with tempering, mobility work, and recovery modalitiesLessons from working with elite athletes in 15 bowl games and multiple championshipsThe ups and downs of chasing big logos, losing jobs, and maturing through 20+ years in the fieldWhether you're a coach, athlete, or parent, this conversation gives a raw look into what it takes to keep athletes fast, resilient, and prepared for the next step in their journey.

Send us a textAdam Singer is the head coach of SBG Athens, where he and his brother Rory have been developing fighters for over 25 years. A longtime practitioner of ecological dynamics in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and MMA, Adam has coached multiple athletes to the highest levels of competition, including two world champions. He's also a co-author of a landmark paper on ecological dynamics in combat sports with Shawn Myszka, Tyler Yearby, Scott Sievewright, and Andy Grahn. Known for blending sharp insight with humor (and reminding everyone he's both handsome and funny), Adam brings a unique perspective to coaching and skill development.In this episode, we discuss:Why coaching is about relationships and culture first — and how SBG Athens has built that over decadesStories from the gym: balancing intensity with care, developing fighters responsibly, and lessons learned across 25+ years in MMAThe role of exploration and aliveness in training, and why “sloppy” doesn't always mean wrongWhy there are no shortcuts in adopting an ecological approach, and the pitfalls of surface-level buzzwordsHow Adam's philosophy challenges traditional pad-work, drill-heavy coaching, and emphasizes problem solving in context If you're a coach or practitioner interested in skill acquisition, practice design, and building adaptable athletes, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.If you like today's episode, leave a review here....If you want to reach me directly, contact me on social media or shoot me @javier@emergentmvmt.com.Referenced in this episode:SBG AthensEcological Dynamics in Sport Combat — Paper (ResearchGate link)EmergenceWatch full podcast episodes on YouTube → youtube.com/@thecoachjavEpisode Resources:CSAS CertificationAdam Singer on IG  If you're a coach or practitioner interested in skill acquisition, practice design, and building adaptable athletes, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.Credits: Song- "Starstruck" by Freebeats.io Let's Chat!Twitter: @thecoachjavIG: @thecoachjav

In this episode, we sit down with veteran coach Eoin Roche to explore the nuanced world of athletic development. Eoin, known for his work with various teams from youth development to senior inter-county, dives deep into how he leverages one-on-one sessions and film analysis to unlock player potential.Discover why a one-size-fits-all approach doesn't work in coaching, and how adapting your methods to individual athletes, even using technology to connect with quieter players, can lead to significant breakthroughs. Eoin shares his powerful insights on objective post-game analysis, stressing the importance of data and film over personal biases to find the true story of a performance.You'll also hear about his innovative approach to introducing performance analysis to young athletes, proving that early exposure can create "sponges" eager to learn. Perhaps most importantly, Eoin reveals the vital role of building genuine relationships with players. Learn how showing you care and are invested—through your hard work and commitment—builds invaluable credibility and earns player buy-in.Whether you're a seasoned coach, an aspiring analyst, or just passionate about sports, Eoin's practical wisdom on balancing data, human connection, and making the game fun will resonate deeply.Key Discussion Points:Adapting coaching for individual needsLeveraging technology for film review and player engagementThe power of objective data vs. personal biases in analysisIntroducing performance analysis to youth athletesBuilding credibility and relationships with playersMaking coaching and learning enjoyableDon't miss this engaging conversation that goes beyond the playbook to explore what truly drives Join the new TOC Coach community: https://www.skool.com/toccoach/aboutSubscribe to the Team Culture Toolbox Newsletter so you don't miss the notes to this and every episode! https://www.tocculture.com/newsletter Learn More and Apply for the next TOC Coaching Retreat: https://www.tocculture.com/retreat Interested in booking TOC for a team meeting/consultation? Click here→ https://www.tocculture.com/contactTOC Coaching & Culture Certification : https://www.tocculture.com/offers/3FEMNae2/checkoutLearn More about TOC and how we can help enhance your coaching experience https://www.tocculture.com/Learn More about Besty Butterick and her work with coaches! https://betsybutterick.com/Follow Us On Social MediaSubstack: https://substack.com/@jpnerbuntocInstagram- https://www.instagram.com/tocculture/ TikTok- https://www.tiktok.com/@tocculture Youtube- https://www.youtube.com/@tocculture

In this episode, George Vaz is joined by Robby Bostain, founder of Level 10 Basketball and former Division I and European pro. Robby shares how his holistic five-pillar approach—skills, fitness, mentality, nutrition, and leadership—helps athletes level up on and off the court. He also dives into how the Constraints-Led Approach (CLA) unlocked creativity in his coaching, why giving athletes ownership accelerates growth, and the power of experimenting across sports. Bio:Robby Bostain is the founder of Level 10 Basketball in Bakersfield, CA, where he trains athletes through a holistic, five-pillar approach: skills, fitness, mentality, nutrition, and leadership. A former Division I player at Furman and a seven-year European pro, Robby blends high-level playing experience with a Kaizen-inspired “Level Up Plan” to help players improve daily. His training emphasizes mental resilience, game IQ, and complete player development. Chapters: 01:00 – Robby's journey from D1 to European pro and coaching transition 05:00 – Holistic challenges: skills, fitness, nutrition, mentality, leadership 08:00 – Teaching affirmations & leadership at a young age 10:30 – Discovering CLA & how it transformed his coaching 13:00 – Drawing inspiration from other sports & creativity in practice design 17:30 – Using constraints to teach offense/defense balance 20:00 – Incentivizing good decisions instead of penalizing mistakes 22:00 – Coaching with principles vs. rigid set plays 24:00 – Embracing variability in shooting & training chaos 26:00 – Transformative tip Level up your coaching with our Amazon Best Selling Book: https://amzn.to/3vO1Tc7Access tons more of evidence-based coaching resources: https://transformingbball.com/products/ Links:Website: http://transformingbball.com/Twitter: https://twitter.com/transformbballInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/transformingbasketball/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transformingbasketballFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/transformingbasketball/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@transforming.basketball

In this episode Matt sits down with Johan Martinez-Khalilian to explore a powerful and often overlooked dynamic in youth and professional sports: the role of fathers (and parents) in shaping athletes' journeys. Through raw stories, personal reflection, and lessons learned from working with elite athletes, this conversation dives into how parents can either empower or unintentionally hold back their children — on and off the field.

Can a seven-year-old really belong on the same team as a sixteen-year-old and what happens when the rules allow it? Cheerleading is evolving fast and not always in ways that benefit the athletes. Whether you're a parent, coach, or athlete, the new age grids, open divisions, and the rise of the Pro Cheer League could directly impact your program's future. If you've ever questioned how fairness, safety, and opportunity intersect in this sport, this episode gives you the full story. Hear why Lauren Bryant believes the Pro Cheer League could be the game-changer cheerleading needs and why Varsity might be the only company that could pull it off. Get a front-row seat to the limited division controversy and why some gyms believe rules aren't just guidelines they're strategy. Discover the serious concerns behind new age grid changes and why they may do more harm than good, especially for youth athletes. Tap play to hear a smart, honest, and fired-up conversation that every cheer professional, parent, and athlete needs to hear right now.  Get Book Updates HERE!⁠ ⁠ Get Your Let's Talk Cheer Podcast T-Shirt⁠ ⁠⁠ ⁠ ⁠ Jason's On-Demand Coaches Training Videos⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠ Code of Points Cheatsheet FREE⁠ Support Our Sponsors Cheer Biz Accelerator- https://nextgenowners.com/cheer-biz-accelerator/ Global Cheer Worlds- https://globalcheerdance.org/ World Class Championships- https://worldclasscheerleading.com/ Rise Productions Coach Conference Aug 29-31- Rise Coach Conference https://events.riseelc.com/gl=1180oehiga*MTE4MTU3MzA4My4xNzM2Nzk1ODE3gaWGMYLPL39D*czE3NTIxNjk3NTQkbzg5JGcxJHQxNzUyMTcwNDk5JGo2MCRsMCRoMA Video Reviews and Digital Courses- vidzing.tv/jasonlarkins Brittany's Comp Cheer Checklist- instagram.com/stories/highlights/18356656174188077  Jason's Book Recommendations- ⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon Affiliate Link⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Let's Talk Cheer on Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ Submit a Question of the Week ⁠⁠⁠⁠ You can support this podcast by making donations here⁠⁠⁠⁠

I’ve gotta be honest…I’m frustrated with the current state of coaching. It seems like nowadays, everybody wants the easy way out. Just grab the biggest or strongest kid (or team), and off you go. But what happened to actually developing young athletes from the ground up? What happened to taking that absolute dog that loves […] The post The Young Athlete Development Manifesto appeared first on Robertson Training Systems.

In today's episode, I sit down with UFC Hall of Famer and VP of Athlete Development, Forrest Griffin, to talk about humor, preparation, and why confidence comes from doing the work. Forrest shares how he learned to use humor as a tool, what it means to “fake it till you feel it,” and why getting your mind out of the way is often the best thing you can do under pressure. We talk about setting purpose-driven goals, tracking growth, and trusting the body's instincts. From training sessions to life lessons, Forrest brings sharp insights, quick wit, and a brutally honest look at what it takes to keep growing.