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Today I talk with Peter Nelson! Peter is the man. He is the Co-founder at SISU Sauna and Owner at Black Flag Athletics. In our conversation, we talk his story, the purpose and passion for what you do, the story of SISU Sauna, his relationship with his dad, the benefits of heat exposure and much more! USE Code “MOTION” to save on your SISU Sauna! https://sisulifestyle.com/products/the-eddy-2-person-barrel-sauna Peter Nelson: https://sisulifestyle.com/pages/our-story Rebel Rabbit! Use code LIFE20 for 20% off your Rebel Rabbit orders! https://drinkrebelrabbit.com/discount/LLM20 For the best mattresses in the game, Engineered Sleep is your team! Use code LIVE15 to get 15% off your order. https://engineeredsleep.com
This episode features Peter Nelson, founder of Sisu Sauna Co. He is a highly motivated and driven entrepreneur based in Cleveland, OH. Born and raised in the area, Peter has a deep connection to his community and a strong desire to make a positive impact through his work. After graduating from college, he joined his friend Tom Rini in the fitness industry, through ownership of Black Flag Athletics in Avon, OH. Through his leadership and dedication, the gym has become a well-respected and thriving community of athletes and fitness enthusiasts. Beyond his work with Black Flag Athletics, Peter is also the founder of SISU Sauna Co., a brand focused on inspiring individuals to pursue their passions and live life with determination and resilience through the means of sauna. Through SISU Sauna Co., Peter and his Finnish/Amish team are handcrafting barrel saunas in Ohio and shipping saunas all throughout the United States. Peter is also an avid ultramarathon runner and active member of the Cleveland community, volunteering his time and resources to various local organizations and causes. He is passionate about helping others and strives to make a positive impact both in his professional and personal life. With his energy, determination, and commitment to excellence, Peter is a rising leader in the Cleveland business community and a true inspiration to those around him. Key Topics Peter's definition of Success. What does fun look like for the Nelson family? Explain: Putting Purpose before Profit. Peter's takeaways from his early career choices How to effectively hire employees How does someone decide the true need in a business? How Peter manages working on two companies at one time. Lessons that Peter's fitness journey has taught him What are we lacking today's culture both in sports & business? Where does Peter see yourself in the next 5-10 years? Raising money and awareness by completing the Hell on Hogs Back run in Cleveland Peter's definition of Thriving. ***. Get a discount on your Sisu Sauna purchase with code: THRIVEONLIFE ***
Peter Nelson II is a highly motivated and driven entrepreneur based in Cleveland, OH. Born and raised in the area, Peter has a deep connection to his community and a strong desire to make a positive impact through his work. As the Founder of SISU Sauna Co. and Owner of Black Flag Athletics, he is drawn to helping individuals find fulfillment in their health and overall lives. Peter is also an avid ultramarathon runner and active member of the Cleveland community, volunteering his time and resources to various local organizations and causes. He is passionate about helping others and strives to make a positive impact both in his professional and personal life. With his energy, determination, and commitment to excellence, Peter is a rising leader in the Cleveland business community and a true inspiration to those around him. Exclusive to WODcast listeners: SAGA produces the world's first wireless, auto-calibrating BFR cuffs, controlled by your smart phone. Head over to World-Leading Blood Flow Restriction Bands | SAGA Fitness BFR Bands and use code wodcast20 for 20% off Hand-Crafted, Cedar Barrel Saunas. Go to https://sisulifestyle.com/ and use code WODCAST for $500 off a Sisu Sauna.
In this episode, Joe and Don spend time catching up after Pete Nelson, co-founder of SISU Sauna and Black Flag Athletics. Peter started his journey as a strong athlete who knew he could do more than just play sports. Overcoming many a challenge and setback in his life his efforts have led to an inspired life, one committed to supporting people as they live the best version of their lives. Links: Pete Nelson II Instagram Sisu Saunas (If interested, ask Pete about a special 'Chasing Tomorrow' discount!) Sisu_Sauna Instagram Black Flag Athletics Dr. Susanna Søberg Research Paper
Pete Nelson is the co-founder of SISU Sauna, owner of Black Flag Athletics, and an ultra runner from Cleveland, Ohio. In our discussion, we got into the origins of SISU Sauna, letting passion lead your life, and how he seeks continuous improvement personally and in his businesses. TIMECODES: (2:23) - Running Multiple Businesses (4:42) - Origins of SISU Sauna (7:31) - Improving Upon Industry Standards (10:23) - Why Barrel-Shaped Saunas (13:21) - Making it as User-Friendly as Possible (14:13) - Story of Biggest Mistake (19:01) - Cedar Construction for Longevity (21:40) - Key Health Benefits of Sauna Exposure (23:44) - Traditional Sauna vs. Infrared Sauna (25:32) - Sauna as a tool for Heat Acclimation (28:49) - Why Contrast Therapy Works (Cold & Heat) (30:10) - Psychological Benefits (31:35) - Future Innovation (34:34) - Sauna Alternatives (36:50) - How Fatherhood Adds Pressure For More: Follow Brock's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brockcovington/ Follow Brock's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-0ZFbmdHKIXDBGXIR0l1Bw Follow Pete's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peternelsonii/ Follow SISU Sauna: https://www.instagram.com/sisu_sauna/
In today's episode of Strong Talk, Tom Rini & Pete Nelson II talk about how important community is to business, and reveal some HUGE NEWS in the very near future for Black Flag Athletics! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/strongtalkpodcast/support
THANK YOU! A sincere thank you to our community, athletes, listeners all over. It is officially the end of an era. We are firing ourselves and closing up shop on Black Flag Radio. The last two and a half years cannot be expressed in words but we try our best to reflect on our community, ourselves, our guests, the podcast, the decision to refocus, changes, challenges, and opportunities that we have presented themselves. We are very proud of what we were able to accomplish with the show and immensely honored to share the mic with incredible athletes, coaches, authors, and experts from within Black Flag Athletics and abroad. We did it our way, we had the time our lives, and we hope you did too!
When you finally get at chance to discover and explore your identity, the possibilities are almost endless. On episode 120 of Black Flag Radio, we welcome our very own Laina Lamb and discuss not only starting new journeys but also breaking stereotypes and a few other topics never before talked about on the show. Tune in to find out how she overcame her internal resistance to change, created and cultivated new connections and relationships, and awakened her life, enjoy!
Cross country, marathons, long distance treks, running has been a part of Paige Nelson's life since childhood. On episode 117 of Black Flag Athletics Black Flag Radio, the crew get to know what got Paige running and what has kept her doing so for all these years. We also discuss the elusive runner's high, cross training and CrossFit for long distance enthusiasts to stay strong and healthy, as well as finer points of cooking your favorite dish, enjoy!
Our official nutrition partner at Black Flag Athletics, Grace Kelley is our guest for episode 116 of Black Flag Radio. She's Master's student in Nutrition at Case Western Reserve University with a master's in Exercise Physiology. We discuss her belief in education, especially learning about our own health. We also get into simple and actionable guidance surrounding nutrition education, planning meals and recipes, and most importantly cutting thru all the noise and BS floating around the interwebs, enjoy!
Meet Ana, Jack, Beth and a little bit of Kevin, as we welcome the entire Drinan Family on Episode 115 of Black Flag Athletics Black Flag Radio. We get to know each of them a little bit; how they all found a home at BFA, their backgrounds, their special talents, how they have persevered in the past, how they have become a closer and stronger family, and what to expect from the crew in the future. We even crack a few jokes, enjoy!
Challenge accepted! A new opportunity presented! The coronavirus pandemic is nothing any of us have experienced, however as the Black Flag Community it is a time thru which our mission will shine. TR, Peter, and Pawel get together for our first in person remote episode to discuss our reactions and future preparations to ensure our continued commitment to our Black Flag Fam. We also discuss the benefits we can take advantage of and growth we can experience as we press on during this hurdle. Enjoy!
Paramedic, Coach, CrossFitter, Olympic Weightlifter but above all, father and family man, Coach Jeremy Puszakowski is our guest on Episode 113 of Black Flag Athletics Blag Radio. We explore his roots in motorcross and bodybuilding, and how he transitioned into functional fitness and Olympic Weightlifting. We also discuss his appreciation for the craft fo coaching, developing work ethic and mental fortitude, building on success, and how to stay safe in a hectic world., enjoy!
Always willing to lend a helping hand, our guest for Episode 112 of Black Flag Athletics Black Flag Radio is the Big Sexy himself, Chris Rangus. The life long tradesman lets us in on the values that he has learned and that have guided him to become a positive person. We also dive into the benefits of staying true to your passion, overcoming obstacles, evaluating progress, and how little acts of kindness have a much much larger impact. Enjoy!
No meniscus, not a problem! Welcome back to Black Flag Athletics Black Flag Radio. Our guest for episode 110 is way overdue. We sit down, get to know, and catch up with one of the OGs of BFA, Shelly Essi Norehad. Shelly lets us in on why and how she got into CrossFit, what has kept her consistent and keeps her motivated, as well as going thru and coming back from knee surgery.. We also explore life outside of the gym, taking chances, trying new things, and succeeding, enjoy!
We are hitting the slopes in episode 99 of Black Flag Radio. This week we are joined by Jessica Stewart and we go waist deep on things skiing, CrossFit, celebrations, holidays, dancing, and kicking the habit. Find out how Jess fell in love with "shredding" the "pow pow", what turned her into a real "ripper", where she gets her dance moves from, how to get her singing, and what's on the menu - pizza and fries anyone? Just kidding, enjoy!
Happy Thanksgiving Fam! On this special holiday episode we are joined by the Director of the ever growing Black Flag Athletics Kids program, Coach Michelle Seghi. As a full time teacher, she knows very well what it takes to connect and get the most out of her students and young athletes. We dive into the importance of being active and exercise, putting in the effort in and outside and the classroom, putting yourself first so that you can deliver for others, and molding the future leaders of the world. Enjoy!
What did you want to be when you were young? Whom would you want as a dinner guest? What is you favorite fiction book? Who is the last person you sang to? These and many more big beautiful questions answered by our very own TR, Coco, Peter, and Pawel. We take an episode to step away from the daily grind and get to know the crew just a tad bit better. Enjoy!
Team dynamics, developing confidence, capturing the flag, costumes, and the beauty of conversation of episode 96 of Black Flag Radio. Coco, Peter, and Pawel gather around for a thoughtful discussion on how far we have come on the podcast, how we came together as a group under TR, and how we continue to grow in and outside of the community as a staff of mentors, leaders, and friends. Believe it or this one is actually pretty serious, for most of the time. Enjoy!
Three sport athlete, a man of steel, and proper master, Rocco Gannelli joins us for episode 95 of Black Flag Radio. We trace his roots in sunny Avon, Ohio growing up in a blue collar family that preached hard work, effort, and professionalism. We also discuss the importance of always being ready and up for any occasion, cultivating the mindset to grow yourself physically and mentally, and the value of longevity in your approach to training, plus some fashion tips. Enjoy!
Moving around the world, playing wide out for the Hoyas, washing cars, driving UPS truck, practicing law, running for public office, and now confronting cancer head on. Brian Darling is now facing his biggest challenge. He shares with us how with the help of mindset, nutrition, exercise, spirituality, and the Black Flag Fam he has been able to feel the best he has, and how this has provided an opportunity for him to evaluate the imbalances in his life. This is a must listen for everyone.
Being diagnosed with depression and anxiety, becoming vulnerable, goal setting, and seizing your opportunity are just a few topics we cover on this week's episode of Black Flag Radio with our very own Olivia Gilmour. The former softball, volleyball, and hockey stand out opens up about her roots, her professional career, her studies in psychology and exercise science, her coaching journey, what we can offer as coaches, investment tips, and a few surprises, enjoy!
Christopher Lucak aka "OGC" is no stranger to taking leaps of faith. He changed his life twelve years ago by trying something completely new and intimidating. More recently, he stepped away from a very successful position he held for 13 years to undertake a very unique opportunity. Learn how he has developed confidence, his CrossFit story, his experience outside the gym, and how you too could potentially discover what you can be capable of and accomplish. Enjoy!
From being diagnosed with lupus, to being the only female on her high school wrestling team, to becoming this year's runner up at the Ohio State Weightlifting Championships in her age group and weight class, the colossal 4'11 Darlena Szilvasy is a force to be reckoned with. On this episode of Black Flag Radio we get to learn about D$'s journey, her "wake up" calls, and about the amazing potential of our mind and body when set towards the right goals, no matter the odds. Join us and reflect the power of choice within us.
The member of the Black Flag Staff that has been fired more than anyone else, Peter Nelson II. From our original episode of Black Flag Radio, we take a look back and highlight how Pete continues to grow and develop. From training, nutrition, neuroscience, mindfulness, personal development, to CrossFit competition, these are just a few tidbits include in this "roast" episode of our Director of Programming.
Dancing can say a lot about a person, and Bob Yun loves to dance. On this episode of Black Flag Radio, we get to learn why this "young" gentlemen always breaks it down when the music comes on. We also get to learn what he has taken away from almost 50 years of cycling, what motivates him, how he achieves mindfulness, and what experiences far and wide have thought him. Bob also shares with us the very simple mantras that can have far reaching and everlasting impact. Tune in and enjoy!
Since 2015, Johanna Vakerics has lost over 90 pounds, a remarkable 40% of her starting bodyweight, and she did it her way. In this remarkable conversation on the latest episode of Black Flag Radio, find out what set Jo on her journey, the sustainable habits she created, and how she continues to strive. We also discuss the significance of reframing and creating a process what works for you, and that will enable you to have a healthier and fitter lifestyle. Enjoy!
Never give up! Barry Rice Jr. didn't and in just over a week he will marry the woman of his dreams, Ariel Samples. Along co-host Tom Rini, the man responsible for this union, we find out how this great duo got their start, why it didn't work out initially, and how they finally realized they are perfect for each other. We also learn how to properly remove eggs from the crate, why watching movie clips can be weird, and an insightful recap of the 2019 CrossFit Games. Love is in the air for episode 83 of Black Flag Athletics Black Flag Radio - Enjoy!
A competitive swimmer for close to 15 years, it was a challenge for Whitney Hickey to find her identity after college. In this fun and upbeat conversation we explore Whitney's Rochester roots, her swimming career, moving to Cleveland, and how her competitive spirit led her to find herself. We also get into her growth as a person, what to eat in Rochester, offer very valuable swimming tips, and the surprising backstory behind her family's "coat of arms". Enjoy!
Personal chef, CrossFitter, cancer survivor, and a total badass. For episode 81 of Black Flag Athletics Black Flag Radio, we welcome Sabine Bellgardt. Along side co-host Tom Lazzaro, we are privileged to sit down and hear Sabine's story. She shares how she first come to Cleveland, leading a healthy and active lifestyle, and dealing with the most unexpected. We also discuss the impact that Black Flag has had on her growth and recovery, her favorite meal to cook, and how to choose the best chocolate.
Welcome the episode that puts the R in Rant and in Rini. Some of the best cuts from our co-host, head coach and owner at Black Flag Athletics, Tom Rini. From playing and getting through injuries, discussing neuroscience, constantly evaluating and continuously evolving, emphasizing athletes, longevity and quality of life, celebrating community, falling in love, and last but not least drinking games. These are some of our favorite moments from Tom. Enjoy!
Enter the House of Pain. For Episode 78 we sit down with PT, DPT, OCS, and FAAOMPT, our very own Todd "Wood Chuck Lewarchick to discuss the very complex topic of the pain experience. Todd does a great job of providing insight on the subject through stories and metaphors that we can relate to. We define pain, reveal the four pillars of Pain Neuorscience Education (PNE), explore the systems involved, answer both why we need pain and why it is good to feel pain, provide guidance on how we can take ownership of overcoming injury. Warning - watch out for lions, toads, and other critters!
The episode that will put you to sleep, hopefully. Join Coco Gerard, Tom Rini, and Pawel Wencel as they play sandmen. The trio reiterate the importance and benefits of sleep for overall health and performance, as well as share key contributing factors for a better night's sleep. The discussion also presents actionable steps and possible routines that you could take right away that could have immediate impact on you feeling refreshed in the morning. Enjoy fam, but not too late!
Is there a magic formula out there that will make you healthier person and a better athlete? In this episode of Black Flag Radio we might just find out. Join Tom and Pawel as they go back in time and share their personal adventures in supplement land as well as discuss what you need to stay away from and what you should consider, if anything. Make sure to tune in to find out the big four and for a very simple homework assignment. Hope this conversation clears up the wild wild west that is the supplement industry.
Introducing another member of our staff at Black Flag West, please welcome Caleb Gannelli. The former hockey standout shares with us his glory days on the rink and the lessons he took away from the ice. We find out how he first got into CrossFit, and how that has turned into a passion for not just coaching, but putting people first in every aspect of his life. The crew also goes explores the benefits of having deeper relationships, Caleb's biggest influences, and how to correctly pronounce his last name.
Get ready to get jacked Fam! On this episode, Tom, Peter and Pawel provide fantastic insight on our next training cycle. We start the conversation with the most important question of all, why? and how our next sixteen weeks directly support the mission of Black Flag Athletics and our community. The crew also gets into the how, what, and of course the science behind how the program was put together by Tom and Peter.
In episode 73 of Black Flag Radio we go back down south for a healthy does of hospitality and introduce you to a fine southern gentleman, Derek England. The humble, soft spoken, and understated former soccer standout lets us in on his Texan roots, what brought him to the North Shore, how he got into CrossFit, and what continues to drive him to become a better Coach at Black Flag Athletics. We crew also discuss finer points of facial hair maintenance, allergy remedies, and how to lose your homecoming date.
In case you missed it, the Black Flag Fam is growing! As we continue to become a stronger and larger community of athletes, friends, family, teachers, mentors, and coaches, it is always wise to look back and reflect on how far we have come. In this special recap episode, we go all the way back to the beginning, as Tom, Peter and Pawel share their backgrounds and the three very different journeys that brought them together at Black Flag Athletics. Expect a few surprises in this laugh filled premier episode. Enjoy!
Join Barry Rice Jr. and Tom Rini as we break down our awesome event this Saturday, and welcome the entire fam to an incredible celebration of community. We cover all the details and FAQs that have come up since our expansion and what everyone can look forward to starting next week at our two locations. The gents also highlight what it means to be "different", how we continue to become a stronger community with a larger tribe, and an emotional stroll down memory lane with TR. An episode with a little bit of everything!
From Bahrain to Sydney, from Ireland to the United States, from Cleveland to Madison? Dr. Mariam AlHilli of Black Flag Athletics is preparing to do what very few have ever accomplished, to qualify and compete in both the Summer Olympics and the CrossFit Games. On this week's episode of Black Flag Radio, Mariam shares with us the experience of living the Olympic dream. From the selection process, to staying at the Olympic village, to competing with the greatest athletes in the world in the biggest sporting spectacle know to man. We also get to know her post Olympic career, what brought her to the North Shore, and what has enabled her to quickly be in contention for the 2020 CrossFit Games.
Nothing beats a great conversation with great friends! For Episode 65 of Black Flag Radio, Peter and Pawel sit down with the one and only, Julie Foucher. Few stones go un-turned. From getting lost to discovering CrossFit, dabbling in Olympic Weightlifting, her track and field career, gymnastics, to BFA. We also go beyond training and sport and deep into the physician patient relationships, connecting with people, developing daily habits, changing behaviors, setting intention, importance of mitigating stress, relationships, nutrition, and the evolution of contemporary medicine. Julie also shares her struggles, her challenges and the daily practices that are instrumental in her ability to follow her passion and purpose!
Behind every great man is a greater woman. Finally, we get to introduce the foundation that allows Black Flag athletics to stand head and shoulders above others, Melanie Rini. Along with Tom, we take time to celebrate the community and our athletes, how it all came together, all those that played a part, and discover how it almost didn't happen. We also get to learn how this beautiful power couple met, what got Mel to stick with TR's antics, and what eventually won her over. Mel also shares her challenging up bringing, the lessons she learned, and how that has made all the difference to get to where she is today. Welcome to #rinimania!
We are on the precipice of something very very special, something unprecedented. We are about to experience and witness the greatest celebration of community achievement and growth through fitness in this hemisphere. It is finally time for Super Friday, the culmination of the 2019 CrossFit Open at Black Flag Athletics. An event like no other, made remarkable by the athletes, their families and their friends. Find out how it all comes together, and what to expect this year once you enter through the front doors at BFA. It will be glorious!
After a standout baseball career in college, it took Dave Ricci Jr a few tries to stick with fitness. Join Peter, Pawel and special co-host Rob Zimmerman as they uncover Dave's path to CrossFit and eventually Olympic Weightlifting at Black Flag Barbell Club. We discuss the factors that allowed to finally commit to pursuing a training regimen, how he manages his priorities, training on a crazy travel schedule and the importance of finding a home. The gents also discuss the key variables outside of the gym that have supported their progress as athletes and will benefit you as well!
Overcoming barriers, having a growth mindset, and the importance of self worth along with positive self talk are not just cultivated at Black Flag Athletics. It is what this this week's guest, the worldly, Erika Knopsnider does for a living. In this episode we get to learn how Erika got to travel to some faraway places, how she found BFA, and the role that fitness plays in her well being. We also recap 19.2, look forward to 19.3, and discuss the finer points of what sets pizzas apart!
Starting this year's CrossFit Open with a Bang! With over 100 Black Flag Athletes sign-ed up for the annual celebration of community and fitness, we could not have asked for a better start. In episode 60 of Black Flag Radio, Tom Rini and Pawel Wencel recap the first workout of the Open with former gymnast, diver, pole vaulter, currently a traveling nurse and fitness addict, our very own Angelina Chuppa. We discuss Angelina's background then get right into how we did, what we thought and what helped us through the workout. We also drop knowledge on the importance of keeping it simple, having intent, a solid plan, understanding energy systems, recovery, and future programming for the next 4 weeks.
Spread the love month continues at Black Flag Athletics and on Black Flag Radio as we catch up with Team BFC. Coaches Mike Rutkowski, Jim Leuenberger and Peter Nelson II recount their incredible showing and experience at this year's Wodapalooza CrossFit Festival. The gents recap what it took to qualify for the comp, the lead up to heading down to Miami, coming together as a team, the level of fitness on display, some of their favorite and more challenging moments from the weekend, and what it takes and will take in the future to perform with the best in the world.
The Future of Healthcare with Drs. Julie Foucher, Dani Urcuyo, & Meghan Jones *What does the future of healthcare look like? *How are physicians shifting their focus? *How can we leverage telehealth, functional medicine, & lifestyle prescription to better serve our patients? Join me and these three rockstar physicians in a round table discussion at Black Flag Athletics! This took place after a recent CrossFit Level 1 Seminar that Julie taught. Here's a little about our guests: Dr. Julie Foucher-Urcuyo - http://JulieFoucher.com Julie is a Family Medicine Resident at Cleveland Clinic, 4x CrossFit Games Competitor, CrossFit Level 1 Seminar Staff, & host of the successful Pursuing Health Podcast! Dr. Dani Urcuyo - https://www.steadymd.com/fitness/ Dani is a Family Medicine Physician with SteadyMD providing virtual primary care. He has a passion for Functional Medicine & Functional Fitness. Dr. Meghan Jones is an Emergency Medicine Physician in Lexington, KY. ------- This episode is brought to you by support of the Game Changers - the Membership group of the Senior Rehab Project. Get special access to this community, monthly research breakdowns, & a complimentary "Redefine OLD" mug! http://SeniorRehabProject.com/Join
The Future of Healthcare with Drs. Julie Foucher, Dani Urcuyo, & Meghan Jones *What does the future of healthcare look like? *How are physicians shifting their focus? *How can we leverage telehealth, functional medicine, & lifestyle prescription to better serve our patients? Join ICE Faculty, Dustin Jones, & these three rockstar physicians in a round table discussion at Black Flag Athletics! This took place after a recent CrossFit Level 1 Seminar that Julie taught. Here's a little about our guests: Dr. Julie Foucher-Urcuyo, MD - http://JulieFoucher.com Julie is a Family Medicine Resident at Cleveland Clinic, 4x CrossFit Games Competitor, CrossFit Level 1 Seminar Staff, & host of the successful Pursuing Health Podcast! Dr. Dani Urcuyo, MD - https://www.steadymd.com/fitness/ Dani is a Family Medicine Physician with SteadyMD providing virtual primary care. He has a passion for Functional Medicine & Functional Fitness. Dr. Meghan Jones, MD is an Emergency Medicine Physician in Lexington, KY. --------- Check out our upcoming courses at http://PTonICE.com
How does a well oiled machine come together and execute flawlessly? Planning, talent, selflessness, and caring for the greater good. We welcome back former guests and co-hosts Kimi K. Corrigan and Heather Mursch of Black Flag Athletics as we get a behind the scenes look at how this marketing duo came together, their mission, and what the future holds as we continue to grow. We discuss the challenges and opportunities involved with bringing the Black Flag Fam closer together, creating a greater presence in our surrounding community, as well as providing the highest quality experience for all of our athletes. This one is full of nuggets, teasers, and some spoilers!
"I took the road less traveled by, and that has made all the difference." The boys are back together and we discuss the things that have helped Black Flag Athletics and it's community stand head and shoulders above the rest. From continually investing in the evolution of our athletes by focusing on the core mission of Black Flag to finding further opportunities on how we can serve the community. We break down how we are furthering adaptation through athlete based and athlete focused programming, creating cohesion in the community, and get an inside look on the effort and time it takes Tom and Pete bring it all to life. There is a reason behind everything that we do at Black Flag, and that makes all the difference.
Introducing Julie "Wild Thing" Kemesky! Joined by special, co-host Ariel Samples, Julie shares with us her evolution not only as an athlete but also a person. This former college softball star opens up about living an all around healthier lifestyle, from relationships, mindset, nutrition, body image, to training. We chat playing ball, trying running on for size, CrossFit, how and why she got hooked, how far she can take it, and the culture of family at Black Flag Athletics (no pun intended). We also catch up with the latest goings with Ariel, the status of that famous pup Brutus, and world domination!
A special holiday episode with BFA's very own, Coach Mike Rutkowski, as the crew takes time to give thanks for all the things that make Black Flag special. We also get to know Mike a little better, taking us back to his days as a standout soccer player, taking his talents to the football field, his journey and growth through CrossFit, and the person that takes him to another level. The dudes also discuss the ideal sports that lend themselves to CrossFit and Olympic Weightlifting, continued development as a coaching staff and the swanky improvements in the studio. Happy Thanksgiving Fam!
Recently Black Flag Radio's very own, Tom Rini and Pawel Wencel had the tables turned on them and had the honor to be guests on The Refined Savage Podcast hosted by the gentle giant, Mark Valenti. This is a very open discussion on a lot of the distractions and BS out there regarding the state of strength and conditioning as it pertains general fitness, health, wellness and increased performance. We also dive into the growth of Black Flag Athletics, athlete development, continued evolution of the sport of CrossFit, and possible destinations for your next vacation. Enjoy!
She's been rockin' your bells the last few weeks at Black Flag Athletics, and in this episode you get you learn about Coach Alina Wencel's movement philosophy. Alina’s passion for knowledge about the human body started early on and led her on a journey of intense exploration of yoga, bodyweight and kettlebell training, as well as meditation. In this episode we learn about the concept of movement nutrition, how to better feel and understand our movement through greater self awareness, how the implements we train with can become extension of ourselves, what it means to develop connections within and throughout our body, as well as how we can earn the right to progress in our training.
Two years and seventy pounds lighter, Shauna Molloy has completely changed her life. She is no longer on the side lines or trying to play catch up with her family. We discover out what it took for her to overcome doubt and embarrassment after first failing multiple times. We discuss the internal factors that keep getting her up and how she found the one thing that meant everything to keep her going. It is no longer about losing weight for Shauna, it is about finding comfort in strength. Being healthy and fit is now an never ending process. Grab the tissues for this one and find out how she found a way to be the way she wants to be.
The smooth voice of Barry Rice Junior is back on Black Flag Radio as a guest co-host joining Pete and Pawel for Episode 25. In this episode we explore staying fit on your adventures away from Black Flag Athletics and the unique perspective in provides us on our community, coaches, and programming. We use our own experience to offer some advice of what to do if a gym isn't nearby and how you can plan ahead to stay strong and supple. We also get into the mindset of closing out workouts, golf versus professional attire, and how to properly eliminate pesky insects. Enjoy!
No need to turn up the volume on this episode as we officially interview the youngest and arguably the most energetic member of the Black Flag Athletics staff, Coco Gerard. She is one of three very athletic siblings as both of her brothers play high level collegiate hockey and she spent a lot of time close the rink growing up. She also spent many years around and learning from horses. In one short year with the Fam she has had incredible growth as both an athlete and now as an aspiring CrossFit coach. Her vibrant personality is only matched by her dedication to continually learn and develop with her eyes set on the ultimate goal.
For this episode I had the opportunity to interview Tom Rini, the owner of Black Flag Athletics. Black Flag has die hard members and coaches who amplify the Black Flag message so loud I can hear it all the way in Australia, and they’re in Cleveland, Ohio. I’ve had the chance to coach a number of his coaches and members and they all have a such a solid mindset from their time at Black Flag.
Welcome to episode 56 of Uncharted Performance! This week we are returning to Black Flag Athletics to talk to Lindsey Kelly, Tom Rini, and Pete Nelson II. The topic of this discussion, as all three of our guests have extensive experience in, is coaching. We start off with learning why coaching is such a passion for them and how it helps them find fulfillment. As Tom puts it, it is an opportunity to give something of yourself and build a relationship with those you’re coaching that impacts the rest of their lives. Lindsey, Pete and Tom describe their growth as coaches and give some useful advice on how others can evolve in this unique role. Learning from other coaches, developing good communication with clients of all different types and going out and getting that all important experience are just some of those critical skills.
Episode 43 of Uncharted Performance welcomes back our old friends from the previous two-part mini-series Strength Summit (Part 1 and Part 2), Tom Rini and Lindsey Kelly of Black Flag Athletics, and Mark Valenti of Blind Dog Gym. When we thought we’ve covered it all when to comes to getting strong, there’s a lot more hiding behind the surface! In this episode we dig into our guests’ surprising reasons for first starting working out and training, discuss variables that can help promote longevity in gaining and maintaining strength, as well as some general advice from these seasoned athletes and coaches. The pieces of advice that stand out the most? Don’t get stuck in single modality training, have one plan and commit to it, find what drives, you and seek out the best people at what they do to get to that goal.
Part 2 of the Strength Summit (Episode 32) is here! Tom Rini of Black Flag Athletics, Lindsey Nelson of Crossfit Distinction, and Mark Valenti of Blind Dog Gym return to dive right back into all things strength. Unlike the previous episode where we discussed the psychological and psycho-social approaches to developing strength, today is all about breaking down successful training programs and learning how we can implement them to help achieve our goals. Topics discussed include specific models of training, such as the conjugate method, how each of our panelists structures his/her own programming as well as how to troubleshoot plateaus. All three coaches have experiences in different fields of training but one thing they agree on is that while many programs work, the key to developing individual strength is to find what works for you.
How often do you question your coach, boss, mentor, or any other authority figure? Probably not enough, if ever. There is often an underlying assumption that whenever we're given something to complete, be it a workout or a project, that there is an underlying basis for that task. But what is it and why? Enter Tom Rini of Black Flag Athletics for Episode 14 of Uncharted Performance. A highly accomplished veteran of the Strength and Conditioning game, Tom provides extensive insight to help us understand what we should be doing in the gym along with the foundational principles of why we are doing it. We shed light on appropriate movement patterns, how they are to be corrected and enhanced, how we can break through the limitations of CrossFit, and how as coaches we can prepare our athletes for success. Start asking, start questioning, start with why!
On episode 118 Dan is joined by Pete Nelson is the co-founder of SISU Sauna, owner of Black Flag Athletics, and an ultra runner from Cleveland, Ohio.Our Sponsors:* Check out Factor: http://factor75.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/citizen-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy