NSCA’s Coaching Podcast

<p>Get to know the 2024 NSCA Assistant College Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year, Kenna Smoak-Minnici. After accepting her award at the 2024 Coaches Conference, she connects with NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, Eric McMahon, about the unique coaching rigors at the prestigious military academy, Army West Point. The episode goes beyond the demands of sport-specific training to developing student-athletes and leaders for sustained success in the military. Smoak-Minnici highlights the role of family along her journey as an athlete and strength and conditioning coach, as well as the importance of always pushing yourself to go beyond the norm.</p> <p>Connect with Kenna on Instagram at: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/kenna_minnici/">@kenna_minnici</a> or LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenna-smoak-minnici-4a9517153/">@kenna-smoak-minnici</a> | Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericmcmahoncscs/">@ericmcmahoncscs </a>  </p> <p>Did you enjoy the episode? Don’t forget to nominate a deserving strength and conditioning coach for an NSCA Coach of the Year Award at <a href="https://www.nsca.com/awards/">NSCA Awards</a>.</p>Show Notes<p>“I also help out with the Athlete Monitoring Program. Everyone is probably familiar with—to get in the military, you have to have meet certain height and weight requirements, or physical abilities that might lean more towards distance running, push-ups, sit ups, whatever it may be. But when you have a 300-lb lineman, or a heavyweight wrestler, or a rugby player, or a thrower, that type of training might not—that body size isn’t conducive to their athletic career for them to stay safe and be successful. So, I work close with getting those athletes ready to commission once their sports seasons end.” 4:48</p> <p>“When I got to middle school, my parents sat me down and they’re like, okay, maybe softball, or track, or some of your other sports might—and I was like, “no, I’m playing football. I like this the best. I like hitting people.” So, then my dad was, to really appease my mom, like, “don’t worry, I’m going to make her quit.” And so, then he made me get up every morning at 5:00 AM and do his whatever he knew about two hours of working out before school in middle school and I fell in love with it to where he didn’t make me quit. So, I played through junior year.” 11:30</p> <p>“To me, it’s just all flowing and I can’t compartmentalize it. I’ve been at West Point a while, so I really do feel like I have a family here, to where I can bring my son around. There’s definitely been last minute schedule changes. I’ve thrown him in the hiking backpack and just coached a group. My players love him and he loves Army. It means so much to me for him to see me feel like I have a purpose in my career.” 15:15</p>

<p>Have you ever considered getting a K-12 teaching license, with your CSCS, to gain employment as a high school strength and conditioning coach? Coach Justin Loudon serves as the Chair of the NSCA High School Coaches Professional Development Group (PDG). He shares PDG updates with NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, Eric McMahon, including highlights from the 2024 NSCA Coaches Conference and direction for the future of high school coaching. Learn about the impact of school-based strength and conditioning beyond the weight room, and important benefits for students over their lifetime.  </p> <p>Connect with Justin on Instagram at: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/coach_loudon/">@coach_loudon</a> or by email: <a href="mailto:[email protected]">[email protected]</a>| Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or X (Twitter): <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> | Here is a link to engage with <a href="https://www.nsca.com/professional-development/professional-development-groups/">NSCA Professional Development Groups</a>.  <br /> <br />As mentioned in the episode, check out the book: <a href="https://www.nsca.com/store/product-detail/">NSCA's Guide to High School Strength and Conditioning</a></p>Show Notes<p>“I think it's more about being a physically literate individual. So for me, being able to teach these kids and educate these kids on how to do this, I think it just sets them up for success later on in their life.” 6:38</p> <p>“Our job is really to help mold those kids, the whole child aspect. It's not just focusing on sports. And if I can get that 93%, 94% stronger and better and more athletic, than the other 6%, 7% is going to come with it as well.” 12:48</p> <p>“Being a coach is being a teacher and being a teacher is being a coach. And I think if you can get that education background, even a couple of classes on it, that's really going to help you out as a coach, whether it's in the college level, professional, or wherever, just being able to look at things maybe slightly different.” 25:10</p>

<p>Catch up on this presentation from the 2024 NSCA Coaches Conference with Major League Baseball (MLB) Tampa Bay Rays Strength and Conditioning Coach, Joey Greany. Greany takes NSCA Coaching Program Manager, Eric McMahon, on a deep dive into plyometrics for a wide range of athletes. He also shares the importance of professional development for strength and conditioning coaches. Tune in to learn in-season training tips and how the NSCA inspired Greany’s path to the Big Leagues.</p> <p>As mentioned in the episode, here is a link to learn more about the <a href="https://pbsccs.org/">Professional Baseball Strength and Conditioning Coaches Society (PBSCCS)</a>.  </p> <p>Connect with Joey on Instagram at: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/joeygreany">@joeygreany</a> | Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or X (Twitter): <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en">@ericmcmahoncscs</a></p>Show Notes<p>“I was very interested in fitness, in sports training. So I went to school for exercise science, physical education. Upon graduation, I explained to the group that my academic advisor, at the time, printed out the NSCA, I guess, job board and the NSCA website, handed that to me. I was walking back to my dorm room, reading the material that he just printed out from the NSCA, and you know, I was completely hooked. I said, this is something that I want to do. Eventually, I want to work with the best athletes in the world.” 8:40</p> <p>“The Professional Baseball Strength and Conditioning Society, is an organization that represents all the strength coaches in professional baseball. When it first started out, there was only a few coaches involved. Over the course of some years, we’ve grown to probably 300 plus coaches that are involved. That’s both Minor League coaches and Major League strength and conditioning coaches, as well as other directors and coordinators are also involved.” 12:45</p> <p>“Communicating with the players on the team, developing relationships and trust with these players on your team is very important to get them to do the things necessary to improve performance.” 17:45</p> <p>“It’s important that you manage strength and power levels, while also keeping in mind of fatigue and recovery throughout the whole off season. And there’s a number of different strategies, techniques, and methods to go and to utilize that. As far as sets and repetitions, I like giving a set and repetition range for my athletes.” 20:28</p>

<p>From tactical strength and conditioning to developing the skills to train a specialized group of football kickers, Catherine Wallace shares how growing up in a military family inspired her into coaching. In this episode, Wallace connects with NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, Eric McMahon, on how to pursue a tactical coaching career in different branches of the military and public safety. She discusses how earning the Tactical Strength and Conditioning Facilitator<sup>®</sup> (TSAC-F<sup>®</sup>) certification led her to pursue the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist<sup>®</sup> (CSCS<sup>®</sup>), and more ways that involvement with the NSCA has positioned her for career growth. There is also a discussion about “holistic programs” within strength and conditioning, an area that has been popularized, but is perhaps still misunderstood. Listen and learn about the rapidly growing tactical strength and conditioning area of the field, and the mindset needed to thrive as an impactful coach.</p> <p>Connect with Catherine on Instagram at: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tac.coach.cath">@tac.coach.cath</a> or by email: <a href="mailto:[email protected]">[email protected]</a> | Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en">@ericmcmahoncscs</a></p>Show Notes<p>“I would say, a big piece of advice if you are making that transition is take time to be a fly on the wall and observe and soak in the community and the area that you’re working within. That’s going to be helpful to build trust within your tactical athletes that are coming through.” 7:29</p> <p>“The NSCA provides so much great content, opportunities to collaborate, to communicate, to grow yourself, and then, also, to grow other coaches.” 14:55</p> <p>“You can have the best program in the world, but if it doesn’t match the person, if you don’t understand the intent, the why, the purpose behind it, you’re only scratching the surface.” 20:20</p> <p>“Whether you want to take your service into the fitness field or strength conditioning or you’re looking to pour into whatever it is that you’re doing in the moment—whether that’s you’re working in corporate or you’re just looking to build within yourself or your own community—we tap into the importance and what defines a successful coach.” 23:59</p>

<p>In this episode of the NSCA Coaching Podcast, we delve into one of the biggest topics in college sports today–Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL). Tune in to learn more about this game-changing development and its implications for college athletes. Hannah Burkhart, a graduate student in Sport Science and Coaching Education at East Tennessee State University (ETSU), shares her experience as a student-athlete and brand ambassador. Eric McMahon, the NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, joins her in the discussion to unpack the details of NIL policies, learn about the impact of social media on student-athletes, and uncover potential career benefits of NIL for personal branding. The episode focuses on the journey of the student-athlete towards professional growth. Don't miss out on this crucial discussion–listen now to stay ahead of the curve!</p> <p>Connect with Hannah on Instagram at: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/hannaahnichole">@hannaahnichole</a> or LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannah-burkhart-074b89201">Hannah Burkhart</a> | Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en">@ericmcmahoncscs</a></p>Show Notes<p>“The NIL is a ton of different opportunities within itself. It has greatly changed college athletics in the last few years. The opportunities arise from showcasing products or services for a brand. A brand can be either local or a major brand.” 4:55</p> <p>“[The NIL is] definitely is helping. I'm learning the importance of branding yourself. Now that's getting pushed even further with social media. You are your own brand on social media. I'm realizing how important it is to have this cohesive image of yourself projected, so employers or athletes know who they're going to be working with.” 21:05</p> <p>“With branding, it definitely has made me step back think about my posts specifically, or just how when someone comes on my page, what's their first glance? What is it going to tell them about me? That will help in the long run, especially when I'm out of PT school, and I'm done with my masters, going for those first jobs. How am I portraying myself? So, if someone does find my social media, what do they see? It just helps me think about going forward, how do I want to change as a person? How do I want to portray myself, and that carries over into real life not just social media” 22:20</p>

<p>This episode of the NSCA’s Coaching Podcast features the 2024 NSCA College Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year, Brijesh Patel. Patel shares decades of wisdom and experience with NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, Eric McMahon, including valuable lessons to support a fulfilling strength and conditioning career and avoid coach burnout. Learn about the journey of the 2023 Quinnipiac University National Champions Men’s Ice Hockey Team from the strength and conditioning coach’s perspective. Patel explains how program resources and support from administration can make or break the success of a program. From lessons on mentorship to putting in the work in support of professional development, this is an episode you will not want to miss.</p> <p>Connect with Brijesh online at <a href="https://www.coachbpatel.com/">coachbpatel.com</a> or by email: <a href="mailto:[email protected]">[email protected]</a>| Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en">@ericmcmahoncscs</a>   <br /> <br />Also, here is the link to nominate a colleague or mentor for an <a href="https://www.nsca.com/awards/">NSCA Coach of the Year Award</a>!</p>Show Notes<p>“In reality, I think, what makes you a really good coach is learning how to coach lots of different athletes and learning how to coach different sports. So when it comes time to earn the right to be able to specialize within one sport, you are going to know how to deal with different personalities and different athletes. And your problem solving ability is going to be that much more expensive because you've been able-- you've been exposed to so much more.” 9:25</p> <p>“That’s something I brought to Quinnipiac and with my staff, too, is getting people to understand that you aren't a coach 24/7, right? You have to be able to have some family aspects of your life. You've got to have some work-life balance, to not only avoid burnout, but to help you become your best self when you're actually with the athletes that you're around.” 17:05</p> <p>“Also, developing some coaching strategies where you empower the people that you're around and the people that you get to work with to do the things on their own, right? I tell recruits flat out – I am not a hand holder. I am not going to hold your hand through every single day. I will teach you and I will be a guide along your journey, but at the end of the day, it is your journey. So, if you want to get better, I'm here for you.” 24:48</p> <p>“It's not just about trying to push them to the next level, but also, getting them to understand how to be an adult, how to take care of themselves in the arena, in the gym, and away. Teaching them how to go grocery shopping. Teaching them about nutrition. Teaching about stress management. Teaching about how to sleep. Teaching them all these tools so they can be healthy, not only while they're here, but also, for the rest of their lives, too.” 28:32</p>

<p>In today's National Football League (NFL) world, teams are always on the lookout for the best talent. That is why strength and conditioning coaches are crucial in optimizing a prospect's value.  This special episode of the NSCA Coaching Podcast features NFL Combine expert, Bryan McCall, sharing details of coaching process leading up to the event. The conversation includes co-hosts Eric McMahon, the NSCA Coaching Program Manager, and Gatorade Team Sports Manager, Jon Jost. You will hear Coach McCall credit Coach Jost as an early career mentor and emphasize the importance of mentorship for all coaches. Learn how to make a successful year-round business of strength and conditioning and advance your coaching career with an entrepreneurial mindset. <br /> <br />You can reach Coach McCall on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/justbmac_">@justbmac_</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/just_BryanM">@just_BryanM</a> | Email Jon at: <a href="mailto:[email protected]">[email protected]</a> | Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en">@ericmcmahoncscs</a>   </p> <p>To learn more and join the Gatorade Performance Partner Community, visit <a href="https://performancepartner.gatorade.com/">GatoradePerformancePartner.com</a>.</p>Show Notes<p>"My father told me really early on, man, find something in your life that you love to do. Don't just go into a job where you just dread being there, and you don't want to do it, and you're forced to do it because you need to get a paycheck week to week. He said, find a passion." 1:55</p> <p>"Physically, a lot of them are all the same. They're all really big. They're fast. They can have the same 5-10-5. The linear speed is there. But it's that "it factor", which we've kind of looked at three different areas. When we talk about mentality, what type of drive do you have? What type of attitude do you have? What's your confidence level? We feel like those three areas is sometimes what separates athletes from being just physical specimens to being, a complete sort of player." 19:52</p> <p>"You've got the alphabet certification, you've got everything. But then when you're on the floor, can you do it? And so you've got to get real world, practical experience getting in front of people, coaching people. It's hard training athletes. They don't necessarily want to do squats all the time, and sprinting, and 300-yard shuttle. They need motivation. So you've got to get some practical experience and get that really quickly so you can learn if this is something you want to do or not, because it's not an easy road." 32:40</p> <p>"An issue I'm seeing with the younger generation, is they just want to get to the top really quick. You've got to slow cook it a little bit. Put it in the oven on 200 and let it just bake. Slow cook your career a little bit. It's going to get there, but it takes time to build your reputation. It takes time to get results. Just be patient with it. You're not going to come out here and just start working with Combine athletes as a new graduate. You're going to have to watch for a little bit and learn. And then you'll get your chance." 33:40</p>

<p>This episode of the NSCA Coaching Podcast presents drug testing and anti-doping initiatives in elite sport. Team USA 2008 Olympian, Carissa Gump, discusses how her journey as an international level weightlifter led to her becoming an ambassador for fair competition. Gump shares lessons from overcoming a career-threatening injury prior to the 2008 Olympics, with NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, Eric McMahon, and how a passion for supporting athletes has fueled her career as a sport business executive. Learn about opportunities that the NSCA Foundation has for aspiring strength and conditioning professionals, and how the NSCA Foundation serves to promote the philanthropy of the coaching profession.    <br /> <br />Learn more about clean sport and anti-doping by taking the <a href="https://www.nsca.com/education/tools-and-resources/usada-coachs-advantage-program/">USADA Coach’s Advantage Course</a> for <strong>0.2 NSCA CEUs</strong>.  <br /> <br />Check out <a href="https://www.nsca.com/about-us/nsca-foundation/">NSCA Foundation </a>resources to discover grants and scholarships available for strength and conditioning professionals.</p> <p>More episode links:</p> <p><a href="https://www.usada.org/">USADA</a> – U.S. Anti-Doping Agency  </p> <p><a href="https://truesport.org/">TrueSport </a>– Education for Coaches, Athletes, and Parents  </p> <p><a href="https://www.nsfsport.com/">NSF for Sport</a> – NSF Certified Nutritional Products Listing</p> <p><a href="https://www.globaldro.com/Home">Global DRO</a> – Drug Reference Online </p> <p><a href="https://www.drugfreesport.com/">Drug Free Sport</a> – Anti-Doping Services and Education</p> <p>Email Carissa at <a href="mailto:[email protected]">[email protected]</a>| Connect with Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en">@ericmcmahoncscs</a></p>Show Notes<p>“I am a very big advocate for anti-doping in sport. Clean sport is really, really important to me, just for a fair playing field but also integrity of the sport and integrity of the athlete and personally.” 10:05</p> <p>“I was lifting, but if it weren't for having those folks in my life and helping me get there, I would never have made it. So me being an Olympian is, yes, it's me, but it is also my family, my coaches, my teammates. Everybody was really a huge part of that.” 30:16</p> <p>“The Foundation is really to me the philanthropic heart of the NSCA. We support students all the way, high school students all the way on up through senior-level investigators. And it's just really special for me to be part of the NSCA and the Foundation because everything comes full circle. What we do comes back to the athletes. And so I'm not coaching. I'm not directly involved with athletes, but I know what I am doing is still-- it's helping athletes in many, many sports.” 33:55</p> <p>“When I started with the Foundation, we were very heavily research-focused. Over the last seven years, we have continued to add grants and scholarships that are focused on those other areas of membership that we have.” 36:00</p>

<p>Hear from University of Connecticut (UCONN) Director of Football Strength and Conditioning, Matt King, as he reflects on milestones and mentors along his decade-plus coaching journey with NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, Eric McMahon. King discusses how his early exposure to strength and conditioning as a high school athlete informs the training-age and level-based training approach of UCONN’s football team. Episode highlights include a look into UCONN’s highly collaborative sports performance department, tips for navigating marriage and children in a career with long-hours, and discussion about the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Transfer Portal.</p> <p>Connect with Matt on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/coach_mking">@coach_mking</a>, Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/Coach_MKing">@Coach_MKing</a>, or by email: <a href="mailto:[email protected]">[email protected]</a>| Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en">@ericmcmahoncscs</a></p>Show Notes<p>“I would say the biggest thing that we've done during the four or five years that I've been here now is be able to have a levels-based system in terms of our training. When they come in, it's based off their training age, we assess them and evaluate them, and then we have four different levels, and each one of my assistants takes a level. So, it also creates ownership in the program with my assistants.” 12:40</p> <p>“We have an environment here where we kind of police each other in terms of making sure that we cover each other, and you're spending time with your family first and foremost, because jobs come and go. Your family's always going to be there for you, and they're going to need you in good times and bad times.” 21:03</p> <p>“Don't try to be like your mentors. Make sure that you have your own personality, and you're authentic with that because if you try to be somebody that you're not, your athletes will see right through it. Let's be honest, nobody wants to be coached by somebody that comes in the room and is fake. They want authenticity, and they want realness.” 25:55</p> <p>“I'd rather have someone that's more of a go-getter and is going to go try and get something done on their own, than have somebody who's going to sit on their hands and wait, because they're not making my job easier if I have to go and tell you to do something every time. Those would be some of my tidbits and my gems for young coaches looking to get in the field.” 28:20</p>

<p>In this episode, Lilly Bernardi, Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach at Hofstra University, talks to Eric McMahon, the NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, about her journey from being an athlete to becoming a coach. Bernardi shares sentiments over losing her senior lacrosse season as a college athlete during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how it has fueled her motivational approach in coaching. The episode highlights the importance of building confidence as a young professional and adopting a growth mindset for career development. Additionally, the conversation delves into social media etiquette for coaches in the age of information sharing.</p> <p>Connect with Lilly on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lilly_bernardi1">@lilly_bernardi1</a> or by email:<a href="mailto:[email protected]"> [email protected]</a>| Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en">@ericmcmahoncscs</a></p>Show Notes<p>“That’s kind of how I found my love for strength and conditioning because the weight room, I think, was the first place for me where maybe I wasn't getting stats on the field. I saw in the weight room, myself getting stronger and that really just translated into a new level of confidence for me and really allowed for me to embrace my role as a leader and, more specifically, a leader by example in the sport of lacrosse.” 3:05</p> <p>“My athletes are very aware of the fact that, on any given day, if they're doing conditioning, if they're having the hardest lift, they're getting yelled at practice, that I would do anything to take the jersey off their back and get out there one more time. I think if I have athletes who are kind of just going through the motions, I really try to explain to them, it might be hard, but you're going to look back, and you'll miss these four years. And maybe you don't want to go outside and do conditioning every day, but there's a day that you'll look back and wish you could be a part of it.” 5:20</p> <p>“My best piece of advice that I received in this career is just, you're never ready for your next step. And so, while, like I said, I had no idea what I was going to present on, I knew I wanted to because I wanted to challenge myself in a different way and prove to myself that I can.” 18:10</p> <p>“Another thing I love about social media is all the books that people post on their stories and adding it to my list. I think sharing information, but also showing your athletes and other coaches and sharing ideas, creating a community of encouraging each other, whether it's in professional accomplishments, and the PRs are fun too.” 25:45</p>

<p>In this episode, we learn from Emily Schilling, an Associate Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Illinois Fighting Illini Volleyball team. She shares her needs analysis for the growing sport of volleyball with NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, Eric McMahon, including thoughts for training team sports, different positions on the court, and the progression from first-year students through graduation. Another important topic covered is the professional pathways strength and conditioning coaches take to gain meaningful early-career coaching experiences and pursue higher-level director roles. Hear about beyond the weightroom demands placed on college student-athletes today, and how National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) “Name, Image, Likeness” (NIL) policies are a topic that strength and conditioning coaches should learn about.</p> <p>You can connect with Emily via email at <a href="mailto:[email protected]">[email protected]</a> | Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en">@ericmcmahoncscs</a></p>Show Notes<p>“Again, getting paid a stipend, not a whole heck of a lot, living in a busy, very expensive city, but I was like, if I keep at this, if I keep my nose to the grindstone and I keep asking questions and I show up every day and I’m consistent with what I do, this is just a one-year gig, and it's going to lead me to something bigger.” 13:00</p> <p>“Stay persistent about it. I think those are the best places to end up at is the places that give you coaching opportunities, and that actually take the time to mentor you. They actually take the time to sit down, answer your questions. They review you. They ask you questions. They challenge you, and as frustrating as it is and maybe scary as it is sometimes, to sit there with your mentor and have them challenge you and really get you to think. If you’re willing to be open minded and have a growth mindset, it always leads you to something better.” 13:47</p> <p>“When they’re allowed to just take a step back and they understand and they know they’re not going to play, it’s almost like a weight off their shoulders. There’s no expectation for them in already a hard transition to college. In a hard transition already to a faster, more physical game, it just allows them to take a back seat and just watch, just to absorb everything, to be mentored.” 23:05</p> <p>“As much as we say, embrace the grind, no days off, that’s not really how the human mind and body works. We’re not robots. We’re humans at the end of the day.” 31:40</p>

<p>Kevin Neeld, Head Performance Coach of the Boston Bruins National Hockey League (NHL) team, joins the NSCA Coaching Podcast to share about strength and conditioning practices in the NHL. Neeld connects with NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, Eric McMahon, on his path to working in professional hockey, the involvement of strength and conditioning at the annual NHL Draft Combine, and the partnership between the <a href="https://www.prohockeystrength.com/">Strength and Conditioning Association of Professional Hockey (SCAPH)</a> and the NSCA. The discussion includes perspectives for aspiring coaches about working in professional hockey, on-ice and off-ice training, and the recent growth of performance staffs.</p> <p>Connect with Kevin on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/kevinneeld">@kevinneeld</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/KevinNeeld">@KevinNeeld</a>| Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en">@ericmcmahoncscs</a></p>Show Notes<p>“The shift on off-ice development and preparing for a potential combine battery takes a back seat to making sure that you’re ready to play the next game, as it should. In contrast, we have players that maybe have not played a game in three months. So there’s a lot of context that needs to be considered when interpreting the test results of the players that are at the combine.” 9:08</p> <p>“What we see in some of these conversations that come up regularly is that a player might be really fast on the ice and really underdeveloped in their speed and power qualities off the ice. To me, that may be a player that you really want to take a strong look at because if they have a four-cylinder engine, and they’re beating eight-cylinder engines in races, then you increase the size of the engine. It’s likely that they’re going to continue to scale up in a positive direction.” 15:35</p> <p>“It’s more of a three-pronged approach of marrying what literature and research-based evidence says along with the coach’s experience along with the values and preferences of the athlete.” 33:10</p>

<p>This episode of the NSCA Coaching Podcast features Nicole Fowler, the Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach at Phillips Exeter Academy. Fowler connects with the NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Staff, Eric McMahon and Kevin Gregory, about transitioning from collegiate coaching, at Merrimack University and the University of Denver, to now working in a high school. Learn what it means to be “unembarassable” in your coaching and how that helps your strength and conditioning program. The impact of the high school strength and conditioning coach extends far beyond weight room in this episode. Tune in to learn more about programming for high school student-athletes and training insights for youth during the pre-college formative years.</p> <p>Connect with Nicole on Instagram at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/nicolefowler10/">@nicolesampson104</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/phillips_exeter_strength/">@phillips_exeter_strength</a> | Reach out to Eric and Kevin on Instagram at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/coachgregorystrength">@coachgregorystrength</a></p>Show Notes<p>“There's about 1,200 students that are on campus here with us. We have grades 9 through 12, but then students can come and join us as a post-graduate as well. The cool thing about Exeter is that it's an extremely diverse campus. We represent about 33 countries and the school itself offers over 450 courses.” 2:25</p> <p>“I've tried to narrow it down to two things, but the athletes want to have control or elements of control, and they want to enjoy the process.” 10:20</p> <p>“He said to be successful in this world you have to be unembarrassable, which is funny, because I didn't put that into perspective. And sometimes the kids are dancing and having a good time or whatever it is. And you have to kind be on board with it to a certain extent. Obviously you have your standards. But you have to enjoy it, because otherwise you're going to pull your hair out trying to get all these kids to do exactly what you want them to do.” 10:55</p> <p>“But role within the community I think is something that I've really enjoyed in my two years that I've been here. I love to see the other side of whatever the campus is working on.” 23:05</p> <p>“I was able to create systems at Merrimack and create systems at Denver, and I'm able to use those systems, but just figure out a creative way to make it work in my setting that I'm in. And I can honestly say that I'm having the most fun that I've ever had coaching, being in the setting that I'm in. And I feel like I'm making a really big impact.” 27:30</p>

<p>Legendary strength and conditioning coach Jeff “Maddog” Madden sits down with NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, Eric McMahon, and Gatorade Team Sports Manager, Jon Jost, to share stories and lessons from an over four-decade collegiate coaching career. This Gatorade Performance Partner collaboration episode of the NSCA Coaching Podcast emphasizes the vital role of the strength and conditioning coach as a team builder, leadership developer, and master motivator for student-athletes. Coach Madden takes us on his journey from the early days of being a strength and conditioning coach to today, discussing some major influencers in the profession and training principles that support long-term career success in college athletics. Listen in and be better equipped to face the challenges we experience in our jobs as coaches.</p> <p>You can reach Coach Madden by email at <a href="mailto:[email protected]">[email protected]</a>| Email Jon at: <a href="mailto:[email protected]">[email protected]</a> | Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> </p> <p>To learn more and join the Gatorade Performance Partner Community, visit <a href="https://performancepartner.gatorade.com/">GatoradePerformancePartner.com</a>.</p>Show Notes<p>“I know you’re the strength and conditioning coach. But you want to work to become an assistant athletic director, or an associate athletic director. You want to be of value to the whole department, not just the football staff. That was money in the bank.” 3:17</p> <p>“That’s a pretty intense amount of time. That’s several months of training that the coaches don’t even get a chance to see them.” 10:45</p> <p>“When you have communication, you can work things out. I had communication with our doctors, because I wanted to understand what the doctors were doing and how they did what they did, so I could better do my job.” 14:39</p> <p>“I had a whole semester where I could go and travel and meet people; go to different clinics, go to the Gatorade clinics or whatever was out there at the given time, and spend time with people. And those people helped build my career, because they gave me solid, sound advice.” 20:20</p> <p>“You see, because I wanted to let them understand it takes a lot to be a champion, but you got to do the work to be a champion. You don’t just walk out there and become a champion. You know? It’s not easy. Anybody can wear the uniform, but can you perform in that uniform? And will you defend the honor of the name on the front and the name on the back of that uniform?” 31:54</p>

<p>Hear from the widely-respected, Rob Glass, Assistant AD for Athletic Performance at Oklahoma State University (OSU), an influential figure in the success of the OSU and University of Florida athletics programs over his four decades in the strength and conditioning profession. Coach Glass connects with the NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, Eric McMahon, on the importance of professionalism among strength and conditioning coaches, and specific qualities he looks for in strength and conditioning coaches joining the OSU staff. This episode highlights the importance of history and experience in developing effective training programs for your coaching environment, and how the student-athletes of today benefit more from our improved coaching practices. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear impactful lessons of character and leadership that can help push your career forward.</p> <p>You can connect with Coach Glass by email at <a href="mailto:[email protected]">[email protected]</a>| Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en">@ericmcmahoncscs</a></p>Show Notes<p>“It's the ability to teach and communicate, effective lifting techniques, program design, and… you try to do your best.” 6:04</p> <p>“The professionalism piece speaks to all that. From the time you first start as a graduate assistant or even an intern, if the professionalism piece is there, you're going to get looked at in a much favorable light with people that are decision-makers for your career moving forward.” 12:38</p> <p>“Write programs backwards. What does the head coach-- where do I need to be when this training cycle ends? And then I'm going to start writing. I actually write it backwards depending on the duration of the training cycle.” 26:40</p> <p>“It’s still about networking and developing relationships where you can have good dialogue, training dialogue, where you can ask some questions. But you've got to develop that network.” 28:00</p> <p>“Don’t be afraid to network. Don't be afraid to reach out. Be a sponge, learn as much as you can. Don't think you have all the answers. I mean, probably the biggest turnoff for some guys is when you sit down with somebody and they act like they've got it figured out and everybody else is a ways wrong. There are so many ways to enhance an athlete's performance.” 30:05</p>

<p>Jessica Burke is an experienced collegiate strength and conditioning coach, most recently at Penn State University, as well as a personal trainer. She joins the NSCA Coaching Podcast with a unique perspective on the state of the strength and conditioning profession. Burke shares her professional path with NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, Eric McMahon, including rewarding work as a personal trainer outside of her responsibilities on campus. This episode explores the value of work-life balance across the coaching profession. Should we debunk the “hustle culture” model of the strength and conditioning coach lifestyle? Listen to learn about this topic and more. Other topics covered include strength and conditioning coaches having a presence on social media and training foundations for youth and female athletes.</p> <p>You can follow Jessica on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/coachjburke/">@coachjburke</a> and TikTok: <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@coachjburke">@coachjburke</a> | Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en">@ericmcmahoncscs</a></p>Show Notes<p>“I definitely encourage people to work with the sports that they’re passionate about but also keep that door open, because working with them and working with golf, it definitely has made me a more well-rounded coach and given me the ability to just connect with more athletes.” 2:40</p> <p>“It takes a level of grit to get into this profession and stay with it.” 8:33</p> <p>“For me, it was making that really in-depth knowledge really accessible for general population and then also providing a really positive message surrounding food, surrounding exercise, things that I really needed to hear when I was in my early 20s and just cutting through the noise of diet culture, because it is really loud.” 10:45</p> <p>“I think the science and the nitty-gritty is a huge part of our profession, don’t get me wrong, but the ability to connect with broad groups and types of people is the thing that makes coaches effective.” 20:18</p>

<p>Learn about expanding developmental pathways and career opportunities within Major League Soccer (MLS) in this episode of the NSCA Coaching Podcast. The Charlotte FC Head of Performance, Adam Parr, shares his experience with NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, Eric McMahon, including the key relationships between strength and conditioning coaches, sport scientists, and international influences on the growth of soccer within North America. As athletes today become more accustomed to data feedback on their performance, Parr explains the process of effectively embedding technology in the team setting. Listen in to learn more about how you can break into a growing area of the field in professional soccer.</p> <p>You can connect with Adam on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aparrfitness/">@aparrfitness</a> or LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamcparr/">@adamcparr</a>| Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en">@ericmcmahoncscs</a></p>Show Notes<p>“I really enjoyed and gravitated towards understanding training loads and stimulus and recovery and how it all fit together. And we started putting together pieces of how are the coaches going to plan training based off of the training loads that we’re getting from the heart rate and different drills and things like that.” 25:00</p> <p>“When we’re able to show them, I think, that we’re individualizing as much as we can, then they understand, OK, like, they’re doing it for my best interest.” 31:55</p> <p>“They may be running GPS with a few teams, but not necessarily have the time to really sift through the data and make use of it and make it actionable. So is that something that you can craft out for yourself? If that’s something you’re interested in, can you say, hey, you know, like let me figure this out. Let me do this for you. Because you can create an opportunity for yourself to not only learn the tech and learn the procedures and kind of the best practices, but then also become a valuable part of what they’re doing. And you never know what that’s going to turn into, right? It could turn into an employment opportunity or a recommendation or referral to somewhere else when someone asks.” 35:05</p> <p>“I think the other thing is just being adaptable, you know, like, willing to flex and adapt, not only to jobs and things like that as far as what you’re doing day to day, but situations, circumstances. If you’re very rigid in what you do in your approach, you’re probably not going to succeed in this space.” 37:50</p>

<p>It is time to catch up with 2019 NSCA Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year, Ashley Jackson, on her recent career move from the University of Michigan to Texas A&M, as the Assistant Director of Olympic Strength and Conditioning. Jackson talks with NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, Eric McMahon, about leadership pathways for coaches and how to gain professional opportunities, from mentorship to earning promotions and taking the next step in your career. This episode explains the importance of the assistant strength and conditioning coach role, not only as a career stepping-stone, but also as an opportunity to practice being both an effective leader and follower. Tune-in and learn more about how you can gain valuable leadership experience, regardless of your current career stage, through involvement with the NSCA.</p> <p>Use this link to look up <a href="https://www.nsca.com/membership/volunteer-leadership-opportunities/">NSCA Contributor Opportunities</a> and get involved!</p> <p>You can connect with Ashley on Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/txstronger">@txstronger</a>| Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en">@ericmcmahoncscs</a></p>Show Notes<p>“For leadership styles and skills, I'd say make sure and surround yourself with good leaders.” 6:23</p> <p>“But it was just taking that 30 seconds of being brave and introducing myself to Joe Schmo at University X, and not caring who they were, where they coached. Was it football? Was Olympic sports? Was it a junior college? Was it-- did they work in the private sector? I was able to take knowledge and guidance from any coach that would let me chew their ear.” 12:17</p> <p>“I wouldn't want to be around anyone that's not an open book and doesn't want to share. So I would say definitely keep that in mind of who you're giving your time and energy to if they're not willing to share everything with you.” 15:38</p> <p>“There are opportunities around us where we can continue to positively influence what our salaries could and should look like. And like I talked about, having representatives at the highest level of administration within our athletic departments will help show those that have say and those that can change salaries and salary grades, how important and integral we are to the athletic department.” 27:35</p>

<p>In this episode, we hear from Kerry Harbor, the Head Strength and Conditioning Coach at Winston-Salem State University, on his experience at the 2023 NSCA Coaches Conference. Coach Harbor shares with NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, Eric McMahon, unique aspects of serving student-athletes at the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II level. The discussion includes Coach Harbor’s early aspiration to become a physical therapist, to how a college football injury introduced him to the coaching profession. From teaching physical education classes to coaching in both high school and college, Coach Harbor reflects on recent growth and areas of opportunity in the strength and conditioning profession.</p> <p>As mentioned during the episode, you can learn more about the results from the <a href="https://www.nsca.com/salary/">2022 NSCA Strength and Conditioning Salary Survey</a>.</p> <p>Connect with Kerry on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/harborkerry/">@harborkerry</a> or Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/CoachHarbor">@CoachHarbor</a> | Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en">@ericmcmahoncscs</a></p>Show Notes<p>“The best way I can put it is, I tell people it's like Frosty the Snowman. He was just a regular snowman until he put the hat on. So once I put the whistle on, I knew this was what I should be doing.” 4:54</p> <p>“I think there's tremendous value in it being able to help someone not be apprehensive when they walk into a gym or not be apprehensive about going outside and get some physical activity.” 13:50</p> <p>“Even my athletes here, we always talk about, you're only as strong as the weight you can lift correctly.” 22:10</p> <p>“Sometimes some mental health issues come because some people don't really know how to deal with failure. So for me, even if you aren't really comfortable speaking or delivering a presentation, I think you should do it because of the value that your story has to other people.” 27:50</p> <p>“I think we should jump at that opportunity at every chance we get to speak, even if you don't feel like you're a polished public speaker, or maybe you're not sure exactly how to do the presentation or exactly what to cover. I would say jump on out there and do it. Jump out there and do it.” 29:55</p>

<p>Meet Tara De Leon, a former collegiate strength and conditioning coach who now works as a personal trainer in Edgewater, MD. De Leon shares insight with NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, Eric McMahon, and episode co-host, NSCA Personal Training Program Manager, Blake Brightwell, on alternate routes for strength and conditioning coaches through personal training, group fitness, and private sector coaching. This episode discusses the “coaching identity” as it exists and impacts coaches’ beliefs across various stages of professional development. With the growth of the strength and conditioning field, De Leon challenges us to expand our thinking and perceptions around personal training, while holding true to our values and expertise as coaches. Regardless of your current role in the profession, learn more about how the NSCA can help you grow your career.  </p> <p>You can connect with Tara on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tara_de_leon_fitness/">@tara_de_leon_fitness</a> or <a href="mailto:[email protected]">[email protected]</a> | Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en">@ericmcmahoncscs</a></p>Show Notes<p>“And now as I've gotten more comfortable with who I am as a trainer, I absolutely call myself a personal trainer, and I'm proud of it.” 9:30</p> <p>“I think the industry is kind of headed towards that where I think one-on-one training will be a really valuable commodity. But the majority will be semi-private and small groups type stuff. I also think there's a huge opportunity in the online space.” 14:43</p> <p>“Someday, I might get married and have a husband and have a job that can't just pick up and go with me wherever I feel like it. Or if I have a kid, and I want to see them every now and then, strength coaching is not a great career for that. At least not where I was because we were there at 6:00 in the morning, 10:00 at night, weekends. It was all over the place. So I think having a little bit more open mindset for me was important. Because the private sector really offers all that other opportunity.” 19:30</p> <p>“So having to have that skill set to be able to hear about all their aches and pains and have some sort of answer for how to mitigate them or fix them entirely, mentally, socially, it takes a lot.” 29:16</p> <p>“So I hope that the coaches out there kind of get inspired to get more involved and maybe serve on a committee or speak at a conference or come on the podcast, try to make it better for all of us.” 33:52</p>

<p>As performance staffs grow and develop, professional athletes today have a broad array of services and expertise available to them in the locker room and around competition. This episode features the Vice President of Health and Performance for the National Basketball Association (NBA) Phoenix Suns, Brady Howe. Howe tells Eric McMahon, the NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, how humble beginnings as an NBA Developmental League athletic trainer contributed to his current performance-first mindset for leading a multifaceted health and performance department. Topics include often misunderstood developmental factors for training elite athletes and advice for how to serve your athletes at the highest level.</p> <p>Connect with Brady on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bhowe6">@bhowe6</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/brady_howe">@brady_howe</a> | Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en">@ericmcmahoncscs</a>   </p> <p>You can learn more about NBA strength and conditioning from the <a href="https://thenbsca.com/">National Basketball Strength and Conditioning Association (NBSCA)</a>, an Official Sport Partner of the NSCA.</p>Show Notes<p>“Sports has always been my medium. I always wanted to be working with athletes, working in sports.” 3:30</p> <p>“This is the thing for young strength coaches that I learned at a very early age, is you have-- you probably spent all night building this program or tomorrow's workout. This is how it's going to go to a T, to the reps. I can envision it. And they get there, and you do the eye test. And that athlete walks in, and it's just not happening today. So very quickly, can you adjust and adapt? And you changed everything on the fly to get what that athlete needs for today, because again, we've got to remind ourselves, why are we here? Why is everybody here? It's for that athlete to be able to perform at a high level on their sport, right?” 9:55</p> <p>“You got to meet them. You've got to meet their energy. Meet them where they're at.” 18:10</p> <p>“You got to find a way to reach these guys and get them to understand that there is value in it, no matter what it is.” 22:05</p>

<p>In this episode, we catch up with 2014 NSCA Assistant College Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year, Caitlin Quinn, about her current position at Toyota Racing. Quinn shares her path from working for over a decade in collegiate athletics at Florida State University to taking a leap into unfamiliar territory in National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) with NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, Eric McMahon. Learn about her needs analysis for working with youth developmental drivers, as well as physiological, behavioral, and nutritional factors that impact racing performance. This episode shares an alternative view on strength and conditioning culture and the expectations that we place on ourselves as coaches. Quinn opens up about creating harmony between professional and personal lives, as well as seeking out the best environment to continue development as strength and conditioning professionals.  <br /> <br />You can connect with Caitlin on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thequinn.44">@thequinn.44</a> | Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en">@ericmcmahoncscs</a></p>Show Notes<p>“I think understanding your athlete and what motivates them, what drives them, what do they get excited about is really important in designing a program that they can execute successfully no matter what your goal is.” 14:45</p> <p>“I think probably year seven or eight, I realized holy moly, there's a huge benefit to having stayed somewhere so long if you continue to try to grow.” 18:47</p> <p>“Part of that was being really eyes open, committed to taking care of me a little bit better so that I could take care of everybody that I was coaching I'm working with.” 21:00</p> <p>“Can we do both those things together, where we're creating strong work ethic in people, but also making them feel empowered, authentic human beings that can take care of themselves also.” 21:17</p>

<p>Veteran Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Miami Heat of the National Basketball Association (NBA), Bill Foran, joins the NSCA Coaching Podcast and reflects on a more than four-decade coaching career. Foran discusses his early beginnings teaching elementary school physical education, with NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager Eric McMahon, and what led him towards pursuing collegiate and professional sports strength and conditioning. Foran shares stories of resourcefulness from the early days, before the strength and conditioning field was formally defined, up to more recent years using sport science technology and foundational core principles to inform training practices for elite NBA players, such as Lebron James and Shaquille O’Neal. This episode is informative for strength and conditioning coaches at any level, emphasizing the importance of building lasting relationships with athletes and head coaches, as well as taking advantage of all that the NSCA has to offer.</p> <p>Reach out to Coach Foran at by email at <a href="mailto:[email protected]">[email protected]</a> | Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en">@ericmcmahoncscs</a>  <br /> <br />Learn more about NBA strength and conditioning with the <a href="https://thenbsca.com/">National Basketball Strength and Conditioning Association (NBSCA)</a>, an Official Sport Partner of the NSCA.</p>Show Notes<p>“And I learned right then I enjoyed developing athletes a lot more than the Xs and Os of the game.” 3:05</p> <p>“I was trying to get across the importance of leg, hip, core strength, but we didn't have the testing, how to test for power back then. We didn't have that. So I came up with a quotient called the power quotient, and it was just the square root of their vertical jump in inches times the square root of their body weight in pounds. And basically it was just a number where I could rank people.” 9:43</p> <p>“You get your degree, you get your certifications, get as much experience as possible either as a GA, an intern, or work for free, whatever it is. You need that experience, and then you need to network, network, network.” 23:15</p> <p>“But the big thing is, you've got to show the athletes you care. Connect with them at the personal level, but when they know you care and you're willing to work, that's the other thing, outwork everybody. If you show them you care and outwork everybody, you're on your way.” 23:33</p>

<p>Coaching careers have chapters. Whether moving from one position to the next, or one area of the profession to another, veteran strength and conditioning coach, Matt Krause, understands this journey well. Krause was the 2018 NSCA Professional Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year with an over 20-year career working in Major League Baseball. He shares his path from professional sports to today, working as the Health and Performance Manager in the Pasco County Sheriff’s Department, with NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, Eric McMahon. This episode includes insights for developing effective strength and conditioning programs across sport and law enforcement. The value of engaging with and learning from multiple areas of the profession is paramount throughout this episode, highlighting the value of leadership and versatility in an expanding profession.   </p> <p> <br /> Connect with Matt on Instagram at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mck_inc/" target="_blank">@mck_inc</a> or by email at <a href="mailto:[email protected]" target="_blank">[email protected]</a> | Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a>  <br />  <br /> Follow-up on this conversation and learn more about strength and conditioning initiatives at the <a href="https://floridafirsttraining.org/" target="_blank">Florida’s Institute for Research, Security, and Tactics (F1RST)</a> and in the <a href="http://baseballstrength.org/" target="_blank">Professional Baseball Strength and Conditioning Coaches Society (PBSCCS)</a>.</p>Show Notes<p>Show Notes Coming Soon!</p>

<p>Hear from strength and conditioning coach, Tim Caron, on his path from collegiate strength and conditioning into a unique private sector business model in the Los Angeles, CA area. Caron connects with NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, Eric McMahon, to discuss the potential role of sport science in the private sector with general population clients. This episode is full of training insights for coaches to re-engage their thought process around working with groups and teams. In addition, Caron shares the origins of his new book, <i>Strength Deficit</i>, on considerations for concentric and eccentric strength training.   </p> <p> <br /> You can reach Tim on Instagram at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/coachtimcaron/" target="_blank">@coachtimcaron</a> or Twitter at <a href="https://twitter.com/coactimcaron" target="_blank">@coachtimcaron</a> | Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a></p>Show Notes<p>Show Notes Coming Soon!</p>

<p class="paragraph">Hear from the 2023 NSCA Assistant College Coach of the Year, Gary Calcagno, from Oklahoma State University. In this episode, Calcagno shares highlights from a more than 30-year strength and conditioning career and how being resourceful as a once aspiring coach prepared him for lasting professional success with NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, Eric McMahon. Calcagno also discusses his long history with the NSCA, recent areas of progress across the profession, and the role of quality leadership in managing a successful strength and conditioning program.  </p> <p> <br /> You can reach Gary by email at <a href="mailto:[email protected]" target="_blank">[email protected]</a> | Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a></p>Show Notes<p>“And I said, well Coach, just judge me on what I do moving forward. I don't-- I'm not going to try to act like a wrestling aficionado, but I do know about the human body and how to make guys more explosive and more powerful. And that, to me, is what your sport's all about.” 8:30</p> <p>“I really think that I would start with the professionalism piece. I mean, you've got to comport yourself in a manner to make people follow you and want to follow you, not because you've got a title, but because you carry yourself the way you should, and that you've got knowledge that can help them, or help their team, or help their organization.” 32:52</p> <p>“I also think you better know how to reach all kinds of kids. Part of our job is just so much involved into you're kind of part sports psychologist. So get to know your student-athletes. And it can be a day where, if you know them, you know they're not ready for you to jump down their throat.” 36:08</p>

<p>Learn about a unique path into strength and conditioning from J. Aggabao, the Associate Athletic Director of Sports Performance at Santa Clara University (SCU). Aggabao shares insights on coaching pathways and hiring, with NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, Eric McMahon, that includes service in the United States Navy, working in the National Football League (NFL), and progressing into a department leadership role at SCU. From networking in the strength and conditioning field to beyond the campus and athletic communities, this episode speaks to various career stages, from aspiring strength and conditioning coaches seeking their first jobs, to experienced professionals aiming to become effective leaders.    <br />  <br /> Reach out to Coach Aggabao on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/j.aggabao" target="_blank">@j.aggabao</a>, or by email at <a href="mailto:[email protected]" target="_blank">[email protected]</a> | Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a></p>Show Notes<p>“The big thing with that, for me, is that in the long run, when they start going to other positions, one, they have the title, and they have a salary benchmark that they are going to be able to use as they negotiate or try to progress in their career.” 5:25</p> <p>“In talking to tactical strength coaches these days, I mean, just the vast knowledge that they bring to the table and are able to present to our service members is where the value lies.” 13:55</p> <p>“Be the best version of yourself wherever you're at in your current situation. People will notice, people will remember, because once again, we're in the athletic world. Coaches will move on, but if you make an impression, they're going to remember that.” 19:20</p> <p>“Now I've shifted my goals to perhaps becoming an executive member of an athletic department, or becoming an AD one day. And so those are the things that now, as I progress in my career, I'm trying to take those steps.” 25:05</p>

<p>Hear from iconic strength and conditioning coach Tommy Moffitt as he debriefs on important lessons learned over a 34-year collegiate coaching career. Moffitt shares his perspective on the importance of training weightlifting movements, with NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, Eric McMahon, and how these methods became an important element of “<i>LSU Way</i>” over an impressive two decades at the University. Topics include the development of young coaches, advice for landing an internship, and shared challenges we face in the strength and conditioning profession. In addition, Moffitt shares a new project he is currently working, the “Moffitt Method”, a new strength and conditioning and education service founded in 2022.  <br />  <br /> Reach out to Tommy on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tommymoffitt/" target="_blank">@tommymoffitt</a>, Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/TommyMoffitt" target="_blank">@TommyMoffitt</a>, or by email at <a href="mailto:[email protected]" target="_blank">[email protected]</a> | Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a></p>Show Notes<p>“That's probably the most important thing for anyone, whether you're a football coach or strength coach or baseball coach. You got to surround yourself with people that are better coaches than you, people that are smarter than you. And then put them in a position where they can do their job.” 2:50</p> <p>“You’ve got to be a great communicator. You've got to be able to get down on the player's level and speak to him or her in a manner that they understand it. And then you've got to be able to motivate that young man or that young woman to do what it is that you want them to do.” 26:00</p> <p>“It takes a huge commitment to be an intern. And so through that, you learn a lot of patience. And then you learn to overcome adversity, and you learn a lot about yourself and what your level of commitment is to this field.” 29:00</p> <p>“The only way out of that position is to apply for every job. You're never going to get a job that you don't apply for.” 41:05</p>

<p>This episode features Corliss Fingers, the Director of Strength and Conditioning at Bethune-Cookman University. She talks with NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, Eric McMahon, about her journey in a predominantly male strength and conditioning profession. This episode speaks to the value of a strength and conditioning coach at the college level, as Fingers shares about preparing athletes in the extreme heat and humidity of Florida during pre-season football. She also recaps her presentation at the 2022 NSCA National Conference in New Orleans, LA, discussing representation around diversity, equity, and inclusion for athletes and coaches.   <br />  <br /> You can reach out to Corliss on Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/CorlissFingers" target="_blank">@CorlissFingers</a> or by email at <a href="mailto:[email protected]" target="_blank">[email protected]</a>| Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a></p>Show Notes<p>“We don't have the things that some of the bigger school has, but I'm fine with filling in the gap. And a lot of it is just education, just giving them things that they can remember that's not too overwhelming, knowing that they have camp in place and getting ready for classes and hitting them over the head with a bunch of ratios of how much it-- no, OK. Let's put some color on your plate.” 13:07</p> <p>“This is the place where we build young men and young women, not just strength-wise, but letting them own who they are, walking to their own life, finding their strength, finding the things that make them who they're going to be. Getting to work on time, applying yourself, teamwork-- you learn all that in the weight room.” 18:24</p> <p>“If you approach it with the right attitude and mentality and just go out there, that you're going to make as many positive connections as possible, you're going to get that recommendation or referral that you're looking for, that you're willing to offer when someone just shows up and puts the time in.” 33:10</p> <p>“But just in general, as young coaches, aspiring coaches entering the field, knowing your blind spots, knowing what experience you have and what experience you don't have that they might be looking for. And not every job is for you in that moment, but if you can recognize that, or if someone tells you, hey, we're looking for someone a little more well-rounded, you can go seek that out.” 36:40</p>

<p>Marquis Johnson, Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach with the Minnesota Vikings National Football League (NFL) team, and Bryan Doo, former Head Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Boston Celtics National Basketball Association (NBA) team and owner of Optimal Fitness, join as guests with the NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, Eric McMahon. Also returning for this Gatorade Performance Partner collaboration episode is guest co-host Jon Jost, a 27-year veteran college strength and conditioning coach and the Team Sports Manager for Gatorade. Join this fun group of strength and conditioning coaches from across the industry as they discuss what it means to be successful, as well as how they are reshaping the different career paths within the field. </p> <p>Connect with Marquis on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/quis_fit" target="_blank">@quis_fit</a>| Reach Bryan on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bdoostrength/" target="_blank">@bdoostrength</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/bdoo22" target="_blank">@bdoo22</a> | Email Jon at: <a href="mailto:[email protected]" target="_blank">[email protected]</a> | Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a></p> <p>To learn more and join the Gatorade Performance Partner Community, visit <a href="https://performancepartner.gatorade.com/" target="_blank">GatoradePerformancePartner.com</a>.</p>Show Notes<p>“Your teams have to win. But also being a good person, doing your job, being a good communicator, creating a good culture and creating a good environment where your athletes and the people people that work-- that your athletes want to thrive in and be successful in, and also being somebody that you're a person that the people you work with want to be around as well.” 3:01</p> <p>“And I said, got be honest, I don't really believe in luck. I said I believe you create your own luck.” 16:22</p> <p>“Any time I'm around people, I never know who I'm going to meet and when I'm going to meet them. So I try to be presentable, watch my language, stuff like that.” 24:05</p> <p>“When you talk about progressive overload, and improving speed, and power, there are some principles that are embedded in science that haven't changed, which I think is really good.” 35:38</p> <p>“But if you find the right network of people-- I think that's been successful for me, is just finding the right network of people. In that way, I can just get good information for everyone, because I don't know everything.” 42:30</p>

<p>Learn about advocacy topics for collegiate strength and conditioning coaches, and the commitment of the NSCA to provide professional development resources in support of the field. This episode features Mary Beth George, the Chair of the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/NSCA.CollegeCoachesSIG" target="_blank">NSCA College Coaches Professional Development Group (PDG)</a>. She shares her story in the profession with NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Manager, Eric McMahon, including key insights on the NSCA’s ongoing efforts to support athlete wellness and safety, and personal perspectives on being a strength and conditioning coach as a parent. Tune in for an early listen of areas that will be discussed at the College Coaches PDG Meeting next month as part of the <a href="https://www.nsca.com/coaches/" target="_blank">2023 Coaches Conference</a> (Charlotte, NC, January 4-6).</p> <p><br /> Connect with Mary Beth via email at <a href="mailto:[email protected]" target="_blank">[email protected]</a> or on Instagram at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mbgeorge2569" target="_blank">mbgeorge2569</a>| | Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> and Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a>  <br />  <br /> You can join the College Coaches PDG Council before the December 15th annual <a href="https://www.nsca.com/membership/volunteer-leadership-opportunities/" target="_blank">NSCA Volunteer Application</a> deadline.</p>Show Notes<p>“I think the biggest thing that I've learned since being a part of this group has been that there is a whole network of people behind you, rooting for you to do well, and will support you-- whether it is that you're an assistant, just coming up, and it's your first full time position, or if you're someone like me trying to build a program, whatever it might be-- there are other people that have experienced something similar before and they can be a sounding board to help you succeed.” 11:07</p> <p>“As we get accredited education programs, as we advance our professional communities, as we improve our research and all of our scientific areas, the way you're going to see that is by the students, and young coaches, and young professionals of today showing up at our conferences, and speaking, and being on committees.” 19:47</p> <p>“When I got in the field, I didn't even think about having a family at the time. I was so devoted to this is my career, and this is what I want to do, and this is what I have to do to make my career work. But then when the kids came along, I had to adjust some of my own beliefs about the job.” 28:22</p> <p>“Being able to be there and push the student athlete on the physical side, but then also being there to support them mentally. And being there, having an open ear, whatever it may be, just building that relationship with the student athlete to know that, hey, they can come to us and know that we're going to listen to them. And if we're not the right resource, we'll point them in the right direction to have whatever support they need.” 33:20</p>

<p class="paragraph">Hear from two-time Olympian, Meg Stone, the first female strength and conditioning coach to head both men’s and women’s strength programs at a major American university. Stone shares her story from being an elite discus thrower towards an unexpected coaching career, with NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Manager, Eric McMahon. She discusses what she believes needs to change to further the strength and conditioning field in support of athlete health and safety. Stone also tells us about what makes the Sport Science Program at East Tennessee State University (ETSU) so unique and beneficial for students. </p> <p class="paragraph">The episode highlights the ongoing work of the NSCA for the prevention of catastrophic injury and sudden death in sport. You can read more about this topic in a recent NSCA press release: <a href="https://www.nsca.com/media-room/press-releases/nsca-reaffirms-position/" target="_blank">NSCA Reaffirms Position on Appropriate Qualifications for Collegiate Strength and Conditioning Coaches</a>. </p> <p>Connect with Meg by email at <a href="mailto:[email protected]" target="_blank">[email protected]</a>| Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> and Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a></p>Show Notes<p>“But when I talk to them, I talk to them about two things, real important things, communication and relationships, both of which are extremely important in anything that you're going to do. You've got to build a relationship with that head coach and you've got to communicate with him regularly. And only then can what you're doing be successful or can you have an impact.” 13:10</p> <p>“And then the hook. You will be the only woman in the country doing it and the first woman to do it. And I thought, I like the sound of that. So, really, I just launched myself into it.” 24:45</p> <p>“Have you got the background to do it? Do you understand exactly what you're doing when you walk into the weight room? And how you are impacting that young person's career by what you're doing? It's a tremendous responsibility to coach, tremendous. And not enough people take that responsibility seriously enough.” 33:01</p> <p>“I tell them at the very beginning of our orientation meeting, don't come here if you want confirmation on what you already know. Come here with an open mind, willing to learn and see things from a different perspective, or something different. You may get confirmation from that but come in with an open mind, willing to learn.” 41:15</p>

<div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW88510915 BCX8"> <div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW118032847 BCX8"> <p class="Paragraph SCXW118032847 BCX8" lang="EN-US"><span class="TextRun SCXW118032847 BCX8" lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none">Learn the path towards working as a National Basketball Association (NBA) strength and conditioning coach, from coaching veteran Jesse Wright. Wright </span><span class="TextRun SCXW118032847 BCX8" lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none">is a former President of the</span><span class="TextRun SCXW118032847 BCX8" lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW118032847 BCX8"> National Basketball Strength and Conditioning Association (NBSCA</span><span class="NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed SCXW118032847 BCX8">), and</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW118032847 BCX8"> </span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW118032847 BCX8" lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none">talks about how being a part of this group with fellow NBA coaches</span><span class="TextRun SCXW118032847 BCX8" lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"> has improved advocacy and representation for strength and conditioning coaches in the NBA. Wright also shares his research relating to sociology and cultural topics to strength and conditioning. If you missed his presentation at the 2022 NSCA Coaches Conference in San Antonio, TX, Wright recaps this topic as it connects to the coaching experience. Tune in to learn steps towards becoming a more adaptable coach.</span><span class="EOP SCXW118032847 BCX8" data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":240,"335559740":240}"> </span></p> </div> <div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW118032847 BCX8"> <p class="Paragraph SCXW118032847 BCX8"><span class="TextRun SCXW118032847 BCX8" lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW118032847 BCX8">C</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW118032847 BCX8">onnect with Jesse on Instagram at</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW118032847 BCX8">:</span></span><a class="Hyperlink SCXW118032847 BCX8" href="https://www.instagram.com/jessekwright" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><span class="TextRun Underlined SCXW118032847 BCX8" lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW118032847 BCX8" data-ccp-charstyle="Hyperlink">@jesse</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW118032847 BCX8" data-ccp-charstyle="Hyperlink">k</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW118032847 BCX8" data-ccp-charstyle="Hyperlink">wright</span></span></a><span class="TextRun SCXW118032847 BCX8" lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW118032847 BCX8">and </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW118032847 BCX8">on </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW118032847 BCX8">Twitter</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW118032847 BCX8">: </span></span><a class="Hyperlink SCXW118032847 BCX8" href="https://twitter.com/wrightstrength" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><span class="TextRun Underlined SCXW118032847 BCX8" lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW118032847 BCX8" data-ccp-charstyle="Hyperlink">@wrightstrength</span></span></a><span class="TextRun SCXW118032847 BCX8" lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW118032847 BCX8">|</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW118032847 BCX8">Find Eric on Instagram: </span></span><a class="Hyperlink SCXW118032847 BCX8" href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><span class="TextRun Underlined SCXW118032847 BCX8" lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW118032847 BCX8" data-ccp-charstyle="Hyperlink">@ericmcmahoncscs</span></span></a><span class="TextRun SCXW118032847 BCX8" lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW118032847 BCX8">and</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW118032847 BCX8"> Twitter: </span></span><a class="Hyperlink SCXW118032847 BCX8" href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><span class="TextRun Underlined SCXW118032847 BCX8" lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW118032847 BCX8" data-ccp-charstyle="Hyperlink">@ericmcmahoncscs</span></span></a><span class="TextRun SCXW118032847 BCX8" lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"> </span><span class="EOP SCXW118032847 BCX8" data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"

<p>Hear an international perspective on the strength and conditioning field from Marcus Svensson, a Swedish National, who currently works in professional soccer with the Al Arabi Sports Club in the Qatar Stars League. This episode shares insights about access to NSCA resources from outside of North America, training strategies for soccer, and the importance of developing adaptability among strength and conditioning coaches. Tune in to expand your professional horizons as part of a global strength and conditioning community.  <br />  <br /> You can also email Marcus at <a href="mailto:[email protected]" target="_blank">[email protected]</a> | Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a></p>Show Notes<p>“So I thought if I can't make it as a player, I want to maximize and learn as much as I can about the science of soccer and everything else. And there I stayed for seven years. And a great mentor to me and who sadly passed away was Professor Tom Riley. He was probably the pioneer of science and soccer in terms of match analysis, in terms of the physiology of soccer and everything.” 3:23</p> <p>“I think there's no one size fits all. I think it all depends on the context you work in and again going back to the category you work with. And in some cases it's on context. You need to push a lot more. And in some context you need to hold players back to say, OK, enough is enough. So I think adaptability is the biggest word” 10:18</p> <p>“So I think I'm not saying we should sprint as fast as the players or run. But if we have, I don't know, if we have a running session, I like to be involved with the players. I like to lead the way to say, OK, we we're doing this. And I think if you come to a new place, that's the one thing you can bond with the players. I'm in the trenches with you together. I would do this with you together. It's going to hurt, yes, but we do it together.” 16:44</p>

<p class="paragraph">Learn about the“Golden Age of Strength and Conditioning”from those who lived it. Former National Basketball Association (NBA) strength and conditioning coach, Chip Sigmon, joins retired longtime National Football League (NFL) strength and conditioning coach, Jerry Palmieri, on a journey back to the 1970s and 1980s. Sigmon and Palmieri share their experiences, mentors, and life influences that put them on a path towards meaningful strength and conditioning careers with the NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, Eric McMahon. Hear how the book, <i>The Golden Age of Strength and Conditioning</i> was written to feature powerful stories of professional growth from the many who were there.</p> <p>Follow the link to read <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Golden-Age-Strength-Conditioning/dp/173237015X" target="_blank"><i>The Golden Age of Strength and Conditioning</i></a>. You can also email Chip at <a href="mailto:[email protected]" target="_blank">[email protected]</a> and Jerry at <a href="mailto:[email protected]" target="_blank">[email protected]</a> | Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a></p>Show Notes<p>“There was a time 10 years ago after the Hornets where I went to work for OrthoCarolina and their strength and conditioning program, a sports performance program, but also assisted with physical therapy, which made me, in essence, a better strength and conditioning coach. It really helped me tremendously with rehab of athletes and so forth.” 16:27</p> <p>“You have to let the athletes know you care about them. They're going to go to social media. Coach, why aren't we doing this? Why aren't we doing that? But if you really-- the social media doesn't care about them. And if you let the s know that you care about every little thing they do on the court, off the court, on the field, off the field, boy, you've got them.” 24:18</p> <p>“I'm thinking about themes in the profession that really are timeless. And one thing we talk a lot about today is mentorship, and who we look up to, and who we learn from, and where we get our experience.” 26:35</p> <p>“That’s what's great, and it’s life, overcoming adversity. And man, it just makes you stronger. It just makes you from a mental, physical, emotional standpoint spiritually.” 36:30</p>

<p class="paragraph">Connor Agnew, Director of Basketball Performance at Appalachian State University, and Scott Caulfield, Director of Strength and Conditioning at Norwich University, joins the NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, Eric McMahon on this Gatorade Performance Partner Special Episode, highlighting “The Importance of Mentorship and Mental Health” in strength and conditioning. The discussion emphasizes the need for coaches to cope with adversity and rely on trusted mentors along their professional journey.</p> <p class="paragraph">Connect with Connor on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/strengthcoachconnor" target="_blank">@strengthcoachconnor</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/CoachConnorSC" target="_blank">@CoachConnorSC</a> | Connect with Scott on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/coachcaulfield" target="_blank">@coachcaulfield</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/scottcaulfield" target="_blank">@scottcaulfield</a> |  Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> | To learn more and join the Gatorade Performance Partner Community, visit <a href="https://performancepartner.gatorade.com/" target="_blank">GatoradePerformancePartner.com</a>.</p> <p>Find additional NSCA resources in the areas of mentorship and mental health, you can stream the NSCA Coaching Podcast and select conference sessions on <a href="https://www.nsca.tv/" target="_blank">NSCA.tv</a>.</p>Show Notes<p>“And I think the people that really helped me out the most were the coaches who show me that we're supposed to be having fun as well when this is happening. It's not everyday process where you're supposed to grind and everything's supposed to be uncomfortable. You can have fun. It's a very fun profession overall.” 13:15</p> <p>“And I think the biggest thing is that athletes understand when you're being genuine and when you're not being genuine. So I think don't be influenced by what you see everybody else posting.” 22:35</p> <p>“It might just be reaching out to someone that you look up to and you're trying to ask them some questions and just interview them. And maybe, who knows, those conversations can sometimes lead to mentorship. And I think that's the thing I would tell younger people too, is don't be afraid to reach out to people, especially in today's day and age of social media where it really is a good opportunity to reach out.” 27:50</p> <p>“Mentorship, it's truly a calling of strength and conditioning coaches to connect with your athletes deeper than just reps and sets.” 35:53</p> <p>“We see them probably more than the head coach will see them, and that's a really big piece. And so we have to make sure that when we're discussing with them any life lessons or coaching them on a daily basis that we're bringing positivity and, really, a growth mindset for them as well, too. And I think sometimes, too, recruiting visits get me a little excited because you get to meet their parents, and you get to meet their family and understand that it's not all just about athletics. It's about people growing overall throughout their own lives and understanding that these parents are trusting us to take care of their kids as much as possible and help them out as much as possible, too.” 44:40</p>

<p class="paragraph">Hear from a more than 30-year strength and conditioning coaching veteran in the sport of rugby, Ashley Jones. He talks to NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, Eric McMahon, about his progression in the field, beginning in 1988 to his current roles as part of the NSCA Rugby Special Interest Group, Awards and Honors Committee, and Certification Committee. Jones provides insight on the important roles of NSCA Committees in supporting the integrity of the coaching profession. Learn more about the expanded roles of strength and conditioning coaches in non-mainstream sports, like Rugby in North America, while also helping to support skill and game development. This episode also includes great lessons on program planning within the team setting and how to emphasize the “human element” in coaching.</p> <p class="paragraph">You can contact Ashley by email at <a href="mailto:[email protected]" target="_blank">[email protected]</a>| Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a>  </p>Show Notes<p>"If you're not a member, join. Because it's not just about paying your dues and saying you're a member. Really, it's about the extra access you get to the education materials. When it comes to what qualifies and what doesn't, it goes back to high standards." 20:00</p> <p>"One thing that will be addressed through the accreditation process is the addition of field work and just reading through the requirements that have been developed and academic programs are currently being vetted for this. It's not just, you do an internship with one program and graduate and you're done. You actually need to have separate experiences, fieldwork experiences, in distinctly different environments." 25:58</p> <p>"But a new team, you have to sit down with the head coach first and foremost and say, what are you going to emphasize with the playing group that we have? What sort of game do you want to play? Do you want to play a more physical game? Do you want to play a more widespread, a more running game, which obviously will impact on how the strength existing program develops." 42:10</p> <p>"I'll probably answer that with two, in that first and foremost is, don't take yourself too seriously. But take what you do very seriously." 45:01</p> <p>"I think that's where I would sort of advise more and more the younger S&C coaches to look at the human elements. And even now that we're pushing more towards a metric driven life as far as strength and conditioning with sports science and all those elements, which is fantastic, don't get me wrong. But it's still making that connection to the human being who happens to be the player on your team, to develop them to be the best they can be on and off the park each and every week." 48:04</p>

<p>Learn about the new NSCA Strongman Special Interest Group (SIG) from strength and conditioning coach, Heidi Campo. Campo talks with NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, Eric McMahon, about her path in strength and conditioning that ran from bodybuilding and powerlifting to becoming a strongman competitor. Campo discusses her experiences spending the winter in Iceland at the “Nest of Giants” with four-time World’s Strongest Man, Magnus Ver Magnusson, and how camaraderie in the sport ignited an even stronger passion for her work as a coach. This episode also discusses how strongman is not just for elite competitors, and how training concepts and methods from the sport can be integrated across all levels of athleticism, multiple sports, and for clients of any age. <br />  <br /> You can reach out to Heidi on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/muscleyogi" target="_blank">@muscleyogi</a> or by email at <a href="mailto:[email protected]" target="_blank">[email protected]</a>| Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a>  </p> <p>Join the <a href="https://www.nsca.com/professional-development/special-interest-groups/" target="_blank">NSCA Strongman Special Interest Group</a> to continue the conversation and learn more.</p>Show Notes<p>“It didn't matter if I was training for the Arnold, or if I was brand new. I was just the same as them. And that's something that really ignited my passion for it, was just the absolute level of camaraderie that I found in the sport.” 7:15</p> <p>“Strongman is the ultimate functional training. It's going to improve longevity for life. Moving, loading, carrying. We move sideways, front and back. We move things. We're moving forward with heavy things on our back, carrying heavy things. Farmers carries at our side. It's incredibly dynamic.” 18:24</p> <p>“When they feel that level of accomplishment of something so primal as just picking up a boulder, it does things for their confidence that is I don't have the words for it. It's amazing what it can do for them.” 21:20</p>

<p class="paragraph">Hear from Lacey Jahn, Head Strength and Conditioning Coach for the United States Marine Corps East School of Infantry. Jahn shares her unusual path into strength and conditioning with NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, Eric McMahon, including stops in curriculum development and working as a lifeguard. Learn more about tactical strength and conditioning jobs, athletic qualities as they relate tactical performance in the military, and the how to approach attending strength and conditioning education events as a young coach.</p> <p>You can reach out to Lacey on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/laceylyrla" target="_blank">@laceylyrla</a> | Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a></p>Show Notes<p>“However, I've learned that programs also need to account for change. They need to account for stressful life events, poor sleep, fatigue. I have to educate the athlete beyond the program.” 14:01</p> <p>“We can say broadly that they're going to have to have a base level of aerobic capacity. They're going to have to be able to carry heavy loads for long distances and they're going to have to be able to perform after they get to whatever the destination is. They're going to have to have a base level of strength and they're going need to be able to withstand the impact with load, so landing with a pack on, stepping in a hole with load on your back, things like that, being able to react in situations that are pretty unpredictable.” 16:11</p> <p>“The old and faithful Super Training by Verkhoshansky and Periodization by Tudor Bompa, they will always have a special place on my bookshelf. A lot of my Xs and Os comes from peer-reviewed literature with the NSCA. I think I use podcasts to get some insight from other coaches' perspective on how they are influencing their athletes or how they're employing the soft skills with their groups.” 19:36</p>

<p>Learn about the emerging field of biomechanics in professional baseball from Georgia Giblin, the Director of Performance Science for the Detroit Tigers Major League Baseball (MLB) team. Giblin shares her professional journey with NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, Eric McMahon, from working with Olympic athletes in Australia to educating coaches on emerging technology tools within MLB. This episode features discussion on the recent growth of athletic performance departments, the current state of sport science in the United States, and the helpful role of strength and conditioning coaches in supporting sport science initiatives.</p> <p>Connect with Georgia on Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/GeorgiaGiblin" target="_blank">@GeorgiaGiblin</a>| Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a></p>Show Notes<p>“That, for me, was probably the most influential kind of part in my career really being embedded within biomechanics and sport science within the Australian Institute of Sport.” 2:15</p> <p>“Some of them might have background in statistics. Some of them might have a strength training background that have now come into coaching. And I think that's really great for the game that we have this diversity of coaches and people within the game with different backgrounds.” 27:46</p> <p>“But my take on it would be as a young practitioner coming into the field or if you're starting an internship with the team or something, take the temperature of the room first. So sit back, listen, learn, be open minded, and just absorb it all in before you start to try and make any moves.” 29:50</p>

<p class="paragraph">Learn about middle school and high school strength and conditioning from 2022 NSCA Coaches Conference presenter Elton Crochran. Coach “Croc” shares his story about transitioning from collegiate strength and conditioning to his work as the Strength and Conditioning Coordinator at Randolph Field School District in San Antonio, TX. Crochran is currently the Head Strength and Conditioning Coach at Veterans Memorial High School. He talks about his hands-on coaching session from Coaches Conference, as well as developmental milestones across key stages of long-term athlete development. </p> <p>Find “Coach Croc” on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ecrock2/" target="_blank">@ecrock2</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/TheCrocShow" target="_blank">@TheCrocShow</a>| Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a></p>Show Notes<p>“There has to be a certain element of education, as well as a certain level of just having fun.  Because at the end of the day, you want to help develop those middle school athletes to develop a love for the game, but more importantly, develop a love for the process.” 12:20</p> <p>“Not everybody's going to play in college, not everybody's going to play professionally. But strength and conditioning from a health standpoint, there's so much value to it and you're instilling that not just at the high school level but at the middle school level.” 20:32</p> <p>“When you add a tennis ball to a drill, just the kids get mind blown and they're like oh my gosh, this drill just got harder just by holding on to this tennis ball. So now, I learn a lot of these things from PE just working on hand eye coordination and things like that. So now I'm integrating things that we do in PE, crossed over to strength and conditioning, and now we're combining the two.” 30:30</p> <p>“I think one of the biggest growth is I always tell people as a strength coach, you should carry yourself as an exercise scientist, because there is a science to what we do.” 34:18</p>

<p>Explore the applied sport science research process in college baseball, and how academic research can be optimized to benefit player programming. This episode features Dr. David Szymanski, the Director of Baseball Performance at Louisiana Tech University, and co-editor of the recently published book <a href="https://www.nsca.com/store/product-detail/" target="_blank"><i>NSCA’s Strength Training for Baseball</i></a>. Hear about Szymanski’s career path, from college baseball player to coach and sport scientist. This episode covers a wide range of relevant topics, including exercise selection, performance technology, student pathways, and the emergence of performance director roles across Major League Baseball (MLB). </p> <p>Find David on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/drdavidszymanski/" target="_blank">@drdavidszymanski</a> or at his program website: <a href="https://www.latechsportscience.org/" target="_blank">LA Tech Sport Science</a>| Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a></p>Show Notes<p>“And then I always tell them, know who your athletes are. What are your facilities? Where are your equipment? How much time do you have? Are you in the offseason, preseason, in-season? What are your injuries? What are your sport coaches may influence what you do or ask you to do some things? And then you have to put it all together and make it work.” 17:20</p> <p>“There has been research that's demonstrated with force plates that the triple extension really is most powerful from the second pull. So you don't have to pull from the floor if you want to really accentuate power production.” 21:33</p> <p>“Learn from those who have good experiences or evidence-based information, because, to me, that's what we really need to know. Because, inevitably, you're going to be asked by somebody-- a medical doctor, athletic trainer, the players, their parents, the coaches-- why are you doing what you do? And I think you always need to have an answer that is going to be objective and evidence-based.” 33:34</p>

<p>Connect with a young researcher and coach on exploring strength and power topics within elite sport, including a deep dive into velocity-based training. This episode features Dr. Jonathon Weakley, of Australian Catholic University and Leeds Beckett University, discussing his path from growing up in New Zealand, working and studying in the United Kingdom, and performing coaching-centric research with athletes in Australia. Listen in as “Jono” connects with Eric McMahon, the NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, on uses of weight room technology, providing appropriate coaching feedback to support athletic performance, and the global strength and conditioning and sport science landscape.  <br />  <br /> This episode mentions the following research papers from NSCA journals: <br />  <br /> <a href="https://journals.lww.com/nsca-scj/Fulltext/2021/04000/Velocity_Based_Training__From_Theory_to.4.aspx" target="_blank">Weakley, J, Mann, B, Banyard, H, McLaren, S, Scott, T, and Garcia-Ramos, A. Velocity-Based Training: From Theory to Application, Strength and Conditioning Journal (43)4: 31-49, 2021</a> </p> <p><a href="https://journals.lww.com/nsca-jscr/Abstract/2020/11000/Show_Me,_Tell_Me,_Encourage_Me__The_Effect_of.18.aspx" target="_blank">Weakley, J, Wilson, K, Till, K, Banyard, H, Dyson, J, Phibbs, P, Read, D, and Jones, B. Show Me, Tell Me, Encourage Me: The Effect of Different Forms of Feedback on Resistance Training Performance, Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research 34(11), 3157-3163, 2020</a> </p> <p>Find Jon on Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/JonathonWeakle1" target="_blank">@JonathonWeakle1</a> | Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a></p>Show Notes<p>“So the thing is you've got to make sure that they have this appeal to coaches. Because they've only got two to three minutes to look at a paper. They're not going to read an entire methodology section or results or discussion. So how can we make sure our results jump off the page, key points given to them in two to three sentences? And then that's how we make our real impact.” 7:03</p> <p>“And I thought to myself, this doesn't make sense, because we're totally neglecting that athletes change over time and that fatigue profiles change over time. And I was even just seeing it in my athletes day-to-day. We might have six athletes and they all do six reps, but they'd have very, very different fatigue responses.” 10:08</p> <p>“And that's when I started going, hey, we've got different athletes. They all require different types of feedback. But understanding your athletes and understanding how they respond to feedback, you can have monster adaptations and training improvements. It's just phenomenal.” 17:41</p> <p>“I genuinely care about helping individuals, because our area is based on human interactions. It's not just barbell velocities and power outputs.” 36:38</p> <p>“We need to make sure our coaches are not only great practitioners, but they have a solid understanding of sports science.” 37:42</p>

<p>Learn from a coach who took his career from working with Winter Olympic and professional sport athletes to success in the private sector. In this episode, Bret Kelly of Exos and formerly United States Ski and Snowboard, shares about his journey and the need for coaches to remain versatile in growing their professional skills in the field. Tune in as Kelly connects with Eric McMahon, the NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, on seeking out opportunities to work in niche Olympic sports, the growing uses of performance technology, and the value of building a strong support staff. </p> <p>Find Bret on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bk_strengthcoach/" target="_blank">@bk_strengthcoach</a> and on Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/bret_kelly_" target="_blank">@bret_kelly_</a> | Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a></p>Show Notes<p>“Offer your services. You're not going to get paid right away. I think that's something that people need to understand. And I looked at it as just more schooling really, because I learned a lot more in my internships probably than I did during my master's program because it was so hands-on. And I'm not paying that tuition.” 10:08</p> <p>“You know different ways of training. You know different cultures I guess. Like, the ski culture is very different from the football culture. So as a coach, you don't necessarily know who you're going to be working with. So being that chameleon, being able to bounce back and forth and work with different groups I think is definitely beneficial.” 14:52</p> <p>“It comes back to building those relationships. If you are building those relationships and they trust you, then they're going to come in and work with you as well just like your athletes would. So it's weird at first, but I think once you kind of wrap your head around it, it's very beneficial.” 20:39</p> <p>“I would say one of my biggest things I got from working with the ski team was to really dive in deep with their exercise physiologist there.” 26:01</p>

<p>This episode features Glenn Revell, the Head Strength and Conditioning Coach at Central Catholic High School in San Antonio, TX. “Coach Rev” shares insights and advice with NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, Eric McMahon, from his transition to high school strength and conditioning from the college setting. This is a great episode for all coaches, teachers, and leaders to realize their value and impact within their community. Tune in to learn about important areas to develop knowledge and skills outside of the traditional strength and conditioning education. </p> <p> <br /> Find Glenn on Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/glennrevell" target="_blank">@glennrevell</a> | Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a></p>Show Notes<p>“When you can really dig deep and develop them as people, not just as athletes. And that's something-- every coach develops their athletes as people in some form or fashion, but I think when you're in those high school years, it's really formative and that's when you can really dig deep and hopefully impact those kids in a positive way and make lasting changes.” 5:05</p> <p>“So for me, it was all about making things simple and scalable and then providing that value to the program, the school, and the profession. So that's kind of what it broke down to me. And as far as X's and O's of what I do, there's nothing extremely complicated. What I've found is that high school kids, they want to lift heavy, they want to run and jump and feel athletic, and they want to compete in whatever way possible.” 21:02</p> <p>“So in and of itself, I had paid for myself by reducing the injury rate. So we got healthier kids and the school, and the school district is spending less money paying for the injuries we don't have. And when you take those things, and you put what you do into language that, essentially, business people can understand, which is going to be your administrators, anyone like that, then they start to see the value. And you're portraying everything that you bring to the program, to the institution, to the profession.” 24:44</p> <p>“For me, I really try to use the technology that we have to foster that competitive atmosphere, not so the kids get caught up in like, oh, Johnny is better than me. He's always running 2/10 of a second faster than me, but that's why I keep that data on them throughout all four years of their time with me because I'm like Yeah Johnny's 2/10 of a second faster than you, but you're 4/10 of a second faster than you were three years ago.” 31:05</p>

<p>Hear from Cristi Bartlett, Assistant Athletic Director and Director of Olympic Strength and Conditioning at North Carolina State University, about her path through the professional ranks from student to department head. Bartlett talks to NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, Eric McMahon, about making moves in the field, seeking opportunities for growth, the current state of strength and conditioning coach salaries, and other areas that can be improved in the profession.</p> <p>Connect with Cristi on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bartlettc42/" target="_blank">@bartlettc42</a>| Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a></p>Show Notes<p>“But it's something that if you can see continual progress, that is a pretty good self-check for you that you're doing some things well and making good decisions. And it's not all about salary, sometimes it is about just that quality experience. And in giving up salary for a period of time to get that.” 18:06</p> <p>“If you never have a seat at the table nobody's going to know what strength coaches do for the program. And so now you get to give some input or some insight as to how we play a role in the department holistically. I think that's important because if you want the industry to grow, you have to have somebody in that seat as a strength and conditioning coach.” 19:50</p> <p>“Just the overall development of the athlete, the physical piece is one thing. However, I think the mental piece is even bigger. They see that they can push to do what they're actually capable of.” 23:46</p> <p>“I think it's super important that you actually have some practical experience from applied experience for your own personal stuff too. You cannot tell an athlete to do something that you've never done. I mean as an athlete, I wouldn't respect you at all if you told me to squat and you haven't lifted a bar.” 26:48</p>

<p>Listen in as Angelo Gingerelli, Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coordinator at Seton Hall University in New Jersey, tells the NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, Eric McMahon, about his journey in the strength and conditioning profession. Topics include working collaboratively as a strength and conditioning staff, positive social media practices, taking on additional staff responsibilities as an adjunct professor, and working with endurance athletes.  </p> <p>You can reach out to Coach Gingerelli on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/finish_strong_book/" target="_blank">@finish_strong_book</a>| Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a></p>Show Notes<p>“I think so much our profession is based on getting an internship and making some connections, but I don't think we spend enough time teaching young coaches you have to nurture those connections. Like going up introducing somebody at a conference, that's a great thing, but what do you do next? Is there a follow-up email? What are you doing when that internship is over?” 6:41</p> <p>“But I think the lesson for young coaches out there is, we argue a lot, the value of a master's degree. You have to have it, but we view it more as kind of checking a box on a resume than getting a lot from it a lot of time in the coaching profession. And I can tell you straight up and down having that master's in health promotion and MEd in education led to me teaching my first class. I was the only person that could do it, and it's led to tens of thousands of dollars in revenue over the last decade by being able to teach these classes and adjuncts.” 29:42</p> <p>“So I tell young coaches, get as much experience as you can, intern under as many people as you can, read everything you can, and then start to develop your coaching philosophy or principles around that.” 35:04</p> <p>“I would say the biggest thing I did as my development as a strength and conditioning coach that changed the game for me, in 2011, I ran a marathon.” 36:08</p>

<p>Hear from Bri Kanz, Assistant Athletic Director of Sports Performance for Santa Clara University. Kanz connects with NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, Eric McMahon, on key stops along her professional path, including her most recent position at Stanford University. Learn how injury inspired Kanz to pursue strength and conditioning, about her move to the West Coast, and her enthusiasm for Olympic sport strength and conditioning. Kanz shares her insight on what it takes to be an effective strength and conditioning coach and where she sees the field going in the future.  </p> <p>Connect with Bri on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/brikanz/" target="_blank">@brikanz</a>| Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a></p>Show Notes<p>“And that's kind of where I started my coaching career at. And just from there, I just fell in love with it. I love the transformation process. I loved watching athletes grow. I loved being able to have an impact on the next generation. And that's kind of where I started my journey.” 3:20</p> <p>“The biggest challenges that I faced, honestly, was knowing when to end the chapter and start a new one. I think saying goodbye to the athletes and the relationships that you've built along the way is always a challenge. And it's always hard to make that decision.” 8:40</p> <p>“First and foremost, you have to be able to work well with others. If you're not able to work well with others and create your own team, then you're not going to be successful period.” 13:14</p> <p>“If you don't have a reason why you want to be in this field, then you're not going to get very far. So just always knowing your why. And whenever you're having a hard day, just coming back to it and knowing that it's for a bigger purpose other than yourself.” 27:21</p>

<p>Hear from 2022 NSCA Professional Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year, Dan Dalrymple. Dalrymple shares insight, advice, and comparisons on working with players at the college and professional levels. He also mentions his special career connection with 2022 NSCA College Strength and Conditioning Coach, Liane Blyn. Tune in as Dalrymple talks to NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, Eric McMahon, about professional development for coaches, and how the NSCA played a valuable role throughout his career development. </p> <p>Connect with Dan on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dan_dalrymple/" target="_blank">@dan_dalrymple</a> | Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a></p>Show Notes<p>“I always liken it to like NASCAR where the assistant coaches, and strength conditioning coaches, and everyone else is kind of the pit crew. And we're keeping the product on the road. And so that's a different mentality of realizing that it's not all about you as a coach. And it's all about the athlete.” 13:05</p> <p>“The beauty of being a strength coach is a lot of times the player will come down and come in and sit in my office and vent. Right? And you want them to have that ability. But you also don't want to be a sounding board for them to just complain about their coach, or complain about their contract, or complain about all these different things.” 24:40</p> <p>“I also think it's important for young coaches, and I try to express this to my staff and to anyone I talk to, understand the history of your profession, and become an expert in that. And see who the giants are that we're all standing on their shoulders.” 28:38</p> <p>“The best thing for me for football was starting to work with ice hockey because I never played competitive ice hockey. I had to learn the sport, and learn how to evaluate it, and learn what they're doing. And then I took that coach's eye and approached it with football, and it made my programming for football a lot better. So those kind of opportunities are just so valuable.” 32:23</p>

<p>In this episode, we hear from 40-year veteran strength and conditioning coach, Rock Gullickson. Rock shares his path from collegiate strength and conditioning to the National Football League (NFL), including how weight room conversations have changed over the years as well as his thoughts on growth in the field today. Listen in to hear Rock connect with NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, Eric McMahon, on lessons and insights for an impactful coaching career.</p> <p>Connect with Rock via email at <a href="mailto:[email protected]" target="_blank">[email protected]</a>| Find Eric on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ericmcmahoncscs/" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a> or Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ericmcmahoncscs?lang=en" target="_blank">@ericmcmahoncscs</a></p>Show Notes<p>“I always liked the idea that you tell the guys, hey, we're going to help you get stronger. We are going to take you to levels that you haven't been before. We are going to push you. We are going to ask you to do things with a lot of energy and you need to bring that each day. And that you also have to have a willingness to work with us on your technique. And we'll film you. We'll watch you. We'll be right beside you. We'll motivate you. We'll encourage you.” 22:37</p> <p>“More than ever, it's developing a relationship and an understanding and a trust that I'm taking it down this path. Because I want you to be bigger, faster, and stronger. I want you to be more healthy on the football field. I want you to be more explosive. I want you to run better.” 26:49</p> <p>“For the young aspiring strength coach, I tell them that there's three things that go into your success. And number one is that you work hard at what you're doing and that people recognize that in you.” 38:24</p> <p>“It's the it's the life lessons that you teach these young people. Because there's things that you have seen and done that, you should share it with these young people so that you teach them about life. And you teach them about their responsibilities and help them with their goals. But that's where the happiness comes.” 43:00</p>