Tri Swim Coach Podcast
Whether you’re barely surviving your first triathlon swim or trying to shave seconds off your Ironman split, this podcast’s got something for you. It’s training tips, real talk, and occasional chaos—all from Tri Swim Coach and a bunch of folks who’ve actually done the damn thing, including pros and long-time coaches. You’ll hear stories, advice, some laughs, and maybe even figure out how to swim faster without feeling like you're drowning in regret. Hosted by Kevin Koskella, a dude who's been in the swim game for over 27 years and still has all his hair—this is your s...
Swim Like You Mean It: A No-BS Talk with Greg Harper
On today’s episode, I sit down with Greg Harper: D1 swimmer turned pro triathlete, two-time Ironman 70.3 World Championship qualifier, and swim coach who isn’t afraid to challenge coaching norms. We dig into why “gliding” is killing your swim, how ditching your smartwatch might actually help your performance, and the real link between breath control and open-water speed. Plus, Greg shares what burnout taught him about lifelong athlete development and how stroke rate beats ego every time.
Connect with Greg Harper on Instagram: @gharpzorz
==================================================================
SUPPORT OUR STUFF
🫁 Breathe Better, Race Stronger
TSC Teaser - #170
TEASER FOR EPISODE 170!
On this episode, I sit down with Greg Harper: D1 swimmer turned pro triathlete, two-time Ironman 70.3 World Championship qualifier, and swim coach who isn’t afraid to challenge coaching norms. We dig into why “gliding” is killing your swim, how ditching your smartwatch might actually help your performance, and the real link between breath control and open-water speed. Plus, Greg shares what burnout taught him about lifelong athlete development and how stroke rate beats ego every time.
Connect with Greg Harper on Instagram: @gharpzorz
==================================================================
SUPPORT OUR STUFF
🫁 Bre...
Let’s Talk About the Feather: Yeah, That’s a Real Thing
Most swimmers finish their stroke like they’re just trying to get their arm out of the way—not like they’re trying to move forward. In this solo episode, I’m diving into a concept almost nobody talks about in freestyle: the feather.
The feather is that subtle but crucial outward motion at the end of your stroke that sets up a smooth recovery and gives you just a little extra propulsion, without blowing up your shoulder. It’s not just for elites. It’s not complicated. But it does take intention.
🎥 Want to see what I’m tal...
Finding Your Place in the Water
In this episode of the Tri Swim Coach Podcast, we dive into what it means to make swimming more than just another workout—it’s a lifestyle. We talk about the unique quirks of swim coaches (like why we all dress like we just got off a boat), how swimming can be a form of therapy, and why getting in the water isn’t just good for your body—it’s good for your mind.
We also break down how to fit swimming into your weekly routine without turning your life upside down. Whether you’re swimming for fitness...
TSC Teaser - #169
==================================================================
Sponsor:
🏊♂️ Big thanks to SwimBox — where your swimming gets better and no one judges your recovery.
👉 https://www.theswimbox.com
==================================================================
YouTube: https://youtu.be/2odTqepF5Zg
TSC Newsletter: https://sendfox.com/triswimcoach
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/triswimcoach/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/triswimcoach
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@triswimcoach?_t=ZP-8vfKANQ964N&_r=1
SUPPORT OUR STUFF
🫁 Breathe Better, Race Stronger
Take the Freestyle Breathing Course:
👉 triswimcoach.com/tri-swim-breathing
🥇 Tri Swim Success Program
Breaking All the Rules: How Ryan Stille Got Faster
Alright, this episode is a wild one. I’m sitting down with Ryan Stille, an open-water swimmer who basically threw front-quadrant freestyle out the window and decided to swim like a normal human. You know, with actual efficiency and momentum not that “pause-and-pray” nonsense that everybody loves to preach.
We get into the whole transformation: how he went from dragging through the water like he was towing a small boat to slicing through it like a damn torpedo.
Here is Ryan during his Lake Tahoe Swim: https://www.instagram.com/reel/C9U9_zoBZUR...
TSC Teaser - #168
Alright, this episode is a wild one. I’m sitting down with Ryan Stille, an open-water swimmer who basically threw front-quadrant freestyle out the window and decided to swim like a normal human. You know, with actual efficiency and momentum not that “pause-and-pray” nonsense that everybody loves to preach.
We get into the whole transformation: how he went from dragging through the water like he was towing a small boat to slicing through it like a damn torpedo.
==================================================================
Sponsor:
🏊♂️ Big thanks to SwimBox — where your swimming gets better and no one judges your recove...
Stop Chasing Pretty - #167
So in this one, we spiral—emotionally and professionally.
We talk about Top Chef making us cry, why your arms shouldn't be twins (yes, like your eyebrows), and how telling someone “real swimmers go under 2:00” is basically psychological warfare in a swim cap. Also, keyhole pulls? Trash. Gone. Antiquated like floppy disks and landlines.
Oh—and one of my swimmers dropped 50 minutes off his marathon swim after we stopped doing what the internet says is “correct.” So yeah, maybe rethink that pretty little front quadrant glide.
It’s a mix of rants, weird metaphors, swi...
TSC Teaser - #167 Stop Chasing Pretty
What do eyebrows, shoulder pumps, and Reddit have in common?
Apparently… swimming.
We get into why your arms shouldn’t be twins, how “failure” might be the best coach you’ve ever had, and why outdated technique advice just won’t die.
🧠 If you've ever thought “I'm not a swimmer”, you need to hear this.
🎙️ Catch the full episode every Monday at 5 a.m., perfect timing to fire up your brain (and maybe your swim) before that morning workout. Don’t miss it.
TSC Newsletter: https://sendfox.com/triswimcoach
Instagra...
Rethinking The Freestyle Recovery - #166
In this episode, we’re diving into one of the most misunderstood pieces of freestyle: the recovery.
You’ve probably been told you need a “high elbow.” Maybe you’ve spent way too much time trying to make your recovery look pretty instead of making it functional. We’re blowing all of that up today.
I’ll walk you through why the way you bring your arm forward absolutely matters, why mimicking fast swimmers can actually slow you down, and why your shoulder blade — not your elbow — should be driving the whole show.
We’re talking recovery typ...
TSC Teaser - Rotation 101: Stop Overthinking, Start Swimming Better
Think your recovery doesn’t matter? Think again.
In tomorrow’s full episode, I’m breaking down why how you bring your arm forward in freestyle can make or break your entire stroke.
We’ll talk about why “high elbow recovery” is mostly nonsense, why your shoulder blade, not your elbow, is the real MVP, and how fixing your recovery can unlock smoother, faster, way more efficient swimming.
TSC Newsletter: https://sendfox.com/triswimcoach
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/triswimcoach/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/triswimcoach
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@t...
Rotation 101: Stop Overthinking, Start Swimming Better
In this episode, we’re cracking open the chaos that is your freestyle rotation. Spoiler: if you’re flipping over like a damn rotisserie chicken or swimming flat like a pancake, you’re doing it wrong.
We break down why 45 degrees is the magic number, how your shoulder blades are secretly calling the shots, and why your kick should not be the engine turning your body.
YouTube: https://youtu.be/2odTqepF5Zg
TSC Newsletter: https://sendfox.com/triswimcoach
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/triswimcoach/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/triswim...
More Kick Talk: Ankles, Quads, and the Smiley Face Line -#164
Back for round two, and yes—we’re still talking about your kick. Because guess what? It’s still not working the way you think it is.
In this episode, we’re diving deeper into flutter kick mechanics: tight ankles, sleepy hamstrings, and the mysterious “smiley face line” under your tush (you’ll know it when you feel it). We’re breaking down why your ankles matter more than your effort, how to actually use your cool down for something other than staring at the bottom of the pool, and why your legs might be sinking because… you’re literally pu...
TSC Teaser - More Kick Talk: Ankles, Quads, And The Smiley Face Line
Click here to Join the TSC Newsletter
SUPPORT OUR STUFF
🫁 Click Here: To flip this one breathing switch and swim further than you ever thought you could without gassing out or training harder
🥇 Tri Swim Success Program
Go from “I hate swimming” to “I get it now”:
👉 triswimcoach.com/tri-swim-program4
🧠 Want Help With Your Kick or Breathing?
DM me on Instagram @triswimcoach or email me at dominic@triswimcoach.com — I’ll help you figure it out.
Sponsor
🏊♂️ Big thanks to SwimBox – where your swimming gets better and no one jud...
Your Legs Called; They Want a Job -#163
In this episode, we’re kicking things off (pun intended but not really) with the one part of freestyle everyone loves to ignore: your legs. That’s right—your lazy, sinking, drag-inducing legs.
We’re talking all things kick: why “saving your legs for the bike” is a myth that needs to die, how your pelvis and core are running the show (literally), and why squeezing your thighs together like you’re trying to crush a watermelon might be the best swimming advice you’ve never heard.
There’s also a deep dive into anatomy, dysfunction, Ricky...
TSC Teaser - Your Legs Called; They Want a Job
Sponsor
🏊♂️ Big thanks to SwimBox – where your swimming gets better and no one judges your feet.
👉 https://www.theswimbox.com
SUPPORT OUR STUFF
🫁 Breathe Better, Race Stronger
Take the Freestyle Breathing Course:
👉 triswimcoach.com/tri-swim-breathing
🥇 Tri Swim Success Program
Go from “I hate swimming” to “I get it now”:
👉 triswimcoach.com/tri-swim-program4
🧠 Want Help With Your Kick or Breathing?
DM me on Instagram @triswimcoach or email me at dominic@triswimcoach.com — I’ll help you figure it out.
Technicians, Therapists, and Taskmasters - #162
In this episode, we’re talking coaching styles—technicians, therapists, and taskmasters—and what it really means to teachsomeone to move better in the water. We dive into a strange-but-effective drill (nips to hips, anyone?), the myth of the “perfect” catch, and why your swimmers might be soaking you on deck during butterfly. There’s also a solid detour into spider crickets, broken fingers, and what happens when you try to watch Inception with your dad.
If you’ve ever wondered what kind of coach you are—or if your clients see you as one—you’ll want to listen to th...
TSC Teaser - Technicians, Therapists, and Taskmasters
Sponsor
🏊♂️ Big thanks to SwimBox – the real MVP of swim coaching. If you’re in the DC area and want to swim like you care:
👉 https://www.theswimbox.com
SUPPORT OUR STUFF
🫁 Breathe Better, Race Stronger
The Freestyle Breathing Course is live: https://triswimcoach.com/tri-swim-breathing
🥇 Want to level up your swimming game? Check out the Tri Swim Success Program – https://triswimcoach.com/tri-swim-program4
Is Your Stroke Lying To You? - #161
In this episode, we’re breaking down what’s really going on with your arm recovery—and spoiler: your hand isn’t the problem. We dig into body awareness, core connection, and why your stroke might be falling apart the second you stop thinking about it. There’s talk of Pilates (yes, seriously), the myth of the “perfect recovery,” and how to stop swimming like a disconnected spaghetti noodle.
#triathlontraining #triswimcoach #swimmechanics #openwaterswimming #triathletelife #dominiclatella
============================================
Sponsor
🏊♂️ Big thanks to SwimBox – the real MVP of swim coaching. If you’re in the DC area and want to swim like...
TSC Teaser - Is Your Stroke Lying To You?
In this episode, we’re breaking down what’s really going on with your arm recovery—and spoiler: your hand isn’t the problem. We dig into body awareness, core connection, and why your stroke might be falling apart the second you stop thinking about it. There’s talk of Pilates (yes, seriously), the myth of the “perfect recovery,” and how to stop swimming like a disconnected spaghetti noodle.
#triathlontraining #triswimcoach #swimmechanics #openwaterswimming #triathletelife #dominiclatella
============================================
Sponsor
🏊♂️ Big thanks to SwimBox – the real MVP of swim coaching. If you’re in the DC area and want to swim like...
Let's Talk about Breathing (Solocast) - #160
Alright, folks—if you feel like you’re drowning every time you swim, this one's for you. Turns out, most people completely overthink breathing in the water. So in this episode, I’m breaking it down: why you’re probably doing it wrong, how to fix it, and a stupidly simple drill that’ll change everything.
Got questions? Drop a comment. Think your swim buddy needs this? Share it with them—save a life.
And if you actually wanna get this breathing thing dialed in, check out the Freestyle Breathing Crash Course. It’s quick, easy, and does...
Everything Is Going To Be Okay - #159
Welcome back to The Tri Swim Coach Podcast! And if this is your first time listening congrats—you just made the best decision of your triathlon career. Or maybe the worst. We’ll see.
Want to talk with Brook? You can find her on IG: https://www.instagram.com/brookbenten?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
You can also check out all of Brook's amazing books: BrookBenten.com/shop/
🔥 First up—Austin, Texas, April 4-6. You, me, and a bunch of other poor souls figuring out how to swim like actu...
TSC Teaser - Everything Is Going To Be Okay
- Tackle correcting your breathing in Freestyle with the TSC Breathing Crash Course - https://triswimcoach.com/tri-swim-breathing
- Want to level up your swimming game? Check out the Tri Swim Success Program - https://triswimcoach.com/tri-swim-program4
Our guest today is Brook Benton. Brook is a personal trainer in Austin, TX and was a finalist for PFP’s (Personal Fitness Professional) Personal Trainer of the Year. In 2012, Brook was awarded “Austin’s Fittest Fitness Professional.” She also finished first overall female in Cap Tex Tri 2024 (Rookie distance) just a few months after joining Tri...
Recovery Epiphanie! - #185
What’s up, ya waterlogged maniacs?! Welcome back to The Tri Swim Coach Podcast! And if this is your first time listening, congrats—you just made the best decision of your triathlon career. Or maybe the worst. We’ll see.
🔥 First up—Austin, Texas, April 4-6. You, me, and a bunch of other poor souls figuring out how to swim like actual athletes. Hands-on coaching, video analysis, open water skills—so you’re not just out there flopping around like a fish having an existential crisis. Limited spots, so don’t be that guy who waits too long. Ap...
TSC Teaser - Recovery Epiphanie!
🫁 - Tackle correcting your breathing in Freestyle with the TSC Breathing Crash Course - https://triswimcoach.com/tri-swim-breathing
🏊♂️ - Want to level up your swimming game? Check out the Tri Swim Success Program - https://triswimcoach.com/tri-swim-program4
Upcoming Swim Camps:
Austin, Texas - April 4th - 6th (8 slots available) $425 per athlete. For more info and apply to join the camp check out this link: https://forms.gle/XZ9KfThfP4hkgQmZ7
Is this making Sense? - #157
Austin, TX TSC OPen Water Camp! 🏊♂️🔥
Alright, listen up, — if your working on your swimming and need to gain open water skills, this camp is for you.
Coach Dominic Latella is hosting a next-level swim camp, and if you’ve ever thought, “I’d love open wate to be fun, and also not feel like I’m dying in the process,” then sign up right now before all the spots are gone.
Training-Only Package (No Lodging) • Includes swim sessions, video analysis, and group discussions • Price: $425What’s in it for you?
✅ Technique Tweaks – Because let’s...
Bahamas Open Water Camp Episode - #156
Are Wetsiuts a Hack or are you a Hack? - #155
Think your swimming is smooth? Spoiler: it’s not. Join our free video analysis group where we meet twice a month—once to roast your strokes individually and once to fix them as a group. It’s like having a personal swim coach and a support group for your flailing, all in one!
Shoot me an email at dominic@thriswimcoach.com or slide into my DMs for the details!
- Tackle correcting your breathing in Freestyle with the TSC Breathing Crash Course - https://triswimcoach.com/tri-swim-breathing
- Want to level...
TSC Teaser - Are Wetsiuts a Hack or are you a Hack?
Think your swimming is smooth? Spoiler: it’s not. Join our free video analysis group where we meet twice a month—once to roast your strokes individually and once to fix them as a group. It’s like having a personal swim coach and a support group for your flailing, all in one!
Shoot me an email at dominic@thriswimcoach.com or slide into my DMs for the details!
- Tackle correcting your breathing in Freestyle with the TSC Breathing Crash Course - https://triswimcoach.com/tri-swim-breathing
- Want to level...
Swimming Philosophy- From Potato Sticks to Mudskippers - #154
Think your swimming is smooth? Spoiler: it’s not. Join our free video analysis group where we meet twice a month—once to roast your strokes individually and once to fix them as a group. It’s like having a personal swim coach and a support group for your flailing, all in one!
Shoot me an email at dominic@thriswimcoach.com or slide into my DMs for the details!
- Tackle correcting your breathing in Freestyle with the TSC Breathing Crash Course - https://triswimcoach.com/tri-swim-breathing
- Wan...
TSC Teaser 2 - Swimming Philosophy- From Potato Sticks to Mudskippers - #154
Think your swimming is smooth? Spoiler: it’s not. Join our free video analysis group where we meet twice a month—once to roast your strokes individually and once to fix them as a group. It’s like having a personal swim coach and a support group for your flailing, all in one!
Shoot me an email at dominic@thriswimcoach.com or slide into my DMs for the details!
- Tackle correcting your breathing in Freestyle with the TSC Breathing Crash Course - https://triswimcoach.com/tri-swim-breathing
- Want to level up your swimmin...
TSC Teaser 1 - Swimming Philosophy- From Potato Sticks to Mudskippers - #154
Think your swimming is smooth? Spoiler: it’s not. Join our free video analysis group where we meet twice a month—once to roast your strokes individually and once to fix them as a group. It’s like having a personal swim coach and a support group for your flailing, all in one!
Shoot me an email at dominic@thriswimcoach.com or slide into my DMs for the details!
- Tackle correcting your breathing in Freestyle with the TSC Breathing Crash Course - https://triswimcoach.com/tri-swim-breathing
- Want to level up your swimmin...
The Art of Swim Training: You can swim fast, But can you float? - #153
Think your swimming is smooth? Spoiler: it’s not. Join our free video analysis group where we meet twice a month—once to roast your strokes individually and once to fix them as a group. It’s like having a personal swim coach and a support group for your flailing, all in one!
Shoot me an email at dominic@thriswimcoach.com or slide into my DMs for the details!
- Tackle correcting your breathing in Freestyle with the TSC Breathing Crash Course - https://triswimcoach.com/tri-swim-breathing
- Want to level up your swimmin...
Mastering Force Production - Leveling Up Your Swimming - Episode #152
Ever sit there and think, ‘How the hell do I get more power in the water?’ Well, we break it down for ya in this episode. Check it out!
- Check out the Force Prodution Progression here: https://fb.watch/x0-rxTSeX5/
- Tackle correcting your breathing in Freestyle with the TSC Breathing Crash Course - https://triswimcoach.com/tri-swim-breathing
- Want to level up your swimming game? Check out the Tri Swim Success Program - https://triswimcoach.com/tri-swim-program4
- Swimming is really about the individual - Sign up for a Live...
Rotation is a fundamental component of human movement - Episode #151
Tackle correcting your breathing in Freestyle with the TSC Breathing Crash Course - https://triswimcoach.com/tri-swim-breathing
Want to level up your swimming game? Check out the Tri Swim Success Program - https://triswimcoach.com/tri-swim-program4
Swimming is really about the individual - Sign up for a Live Video Analysis and work directly with Coach Dominic to understand, implement, and improve - https://tidycal.com/dominiclatella/45-minute-live Upcoming Swim Camps: Abaco Bahamas - Feb 6th - 11th - SOLD OUT
Austin, Texas - March 28 - 30 (10 slots available) Salt Lake City, Utah - July 2025 (to be det...
Swim With Curiosity - #150
Tackle correcting your breathing in Freestyle with the TSC Breathing Crash Course - https://triswimcoach.com/tri-swim-breathing
Want to level up your swimming game? Check out the Tri Swim Success Program - https://triswimcoach.com/tri-swim-program4
Swimming is really about the individual - Sign up for a Live Video Analysis and work directly with Coach Dominic to understand, implement, and improve - https://tidycal.com/dominiclatella/45-minute-live Upcoming Swim Camps: Abaco Bahamas - Feb 6th - 11th - SOLD OUT
Austin, Texas - March 28 - 30 (10 slots available) Salt Lake City, Utah - July 2025 (to be det...
The Philosophy of Coaching and Lifelong Learning in Swimming and Triathlon with Lou Tharp - Episode #149
Engage in a deep and revealing conversation that explores the nuances of coaching, the evolution of swimming techniques, and the philosophies that drive success in the world of triathlon and competitive swimming. We cover the importance of disagreeing as coaches to foster growth, the challenges of adapting coaching techniques over time, and the anecdotal versus scientific bases of their practices. We touch on the psychological aspects of competition, emphasizing the role of the heart and brain over physical prowess alone. We even dive into insights on making a difference in athletes' lives, underscoring the lifelong journey of learning and...
Amplifying Diversity and Community in Triathlon with Camille Baptiste - TSC Episode #148
This podcast episode features an enlightening conversation with Camille Baptiste, a race director who advocates for inclusivity in triathlon. Dive into the journey of organizing events, the importance of short course races for beginners, and the critical role of community swims and bike rides. Camille shares insights on creating a more inclusive triathlon culture, making the sport accessible for females, ethnic minorities, and newbies. The discussion covers dealing with criticism, the impact of race gear and times on participation, and strategies for attracting and retaining participants. This episode is a call to focus less on competition and more on...
Mastering Triathlon Training: Off-Season Strategies for Peak Performance with Josh Banks - TSC Podcast #147
This podcast explores critical insights on maximizing off-season training for triathletes, featuring in-depth discussions on training strategies, nutrition, recovery, and technology's role in tailoring training plans. Emphasizing the transition from distance to speed, the use of platforms like TriDot and Fuelin to customize training and nutrition plans, and the impact of technique adjustments on swimming, the podcast offers a comprehensive guide to achieving peak performance. It stresses the importance of setting achievable goals, maintaining fitness through race participation, and balancing training with personal commitments. Highlighting the mental aspects of racing and the value of coaching, it also explores community...
Transition of Leadership and Teaching Philosophy in TriSwimCoach with Kevin Koskella - TSC Podcast #146
In this episode, Kevin passes the TriSwimCoach baton to Dominic, marking a big shift in leadership. They share stories from their early days in coaching to the latest in their careers, revealing how their approaches to teaching have evolved over time. Whether it’s tackling the challenges of coaching beginners or fine-tuning the techniques of competitive triathletes, they emphasize the need for personalized coaching that really fits the swimmer’s goals. Plus, they’ll give us a sneak peek into the future of TriSwimCoach, including plans to boost the community vibe with more online interaction and international swim camps. It’s a...
