Inner Athlete Podcast

Your teen might be eating well—but are they actually absorbing and using those nutrients?

In this episode, host Trent sits down with clinical nutritionist Laura Sedgwick from LS Nutrition (lsnutrition.com.au) to unpack why nutrition is more than just intake. They explore how stress and gut health can impact nutrient absorption, energy levels, and recovery—plus the subtle signs your teen athlete may not be getting the full benefit from the food they eat. 

You’ll also learn practical strategies to support digestion and help young athletes turn what they eat into re...

In this episode, Trent is joined by clinical nutritionist Laura Sedgwick to break down why teenage athletes aren’t just “small adults” — and how puberty changes everything when it comes to nutrition, recovery, and performance.

They explore how hormones drive different nutritional needs for boys and girls, from testosterone and muscle development to menstrual health and recovery — and why common approaches like under-fuelling or low-carb diets can do more harm than good.

They also unpack the connection between stress, the nervous system, and gut health, explaining why many teen athletes experience fatigue, poor recovery...

Teenage athletes are training harder than ever, but many are missing key signs that their body isn’t keeping up.

In this episode, host Trent is joined by Laura Sedgwick, founder of LS Nutrition, to break down the common red flags parents and athletes shouldn’t ignore — from persistent fatigue and poor recovery to digestive issues, mood changes, and brain fog. They explore how many of these symptoms are linked to stress, gut health, and mismatched fuelling for training demands.

Trent and Laura also discuss when blood testing is valuable, why it’s importan...

Women’s sport is growing rapidly — and the opportunities for young female athletes have never been greater.

In this episode, host Trent sits down with Jaime Fernandez, Assistant Director and Performance Enhancement Coach at the University of Arizona, to discuss what’s driving the rise of women’s collegiate sport and what it means for Australian athletes looking to compete overseas.

We unpack the growing opportunities around athlete branding and endorsement deals in U.S. college sport, along with the expanding pathways, resources, and support now available to female athletes.

T...

In this follow-up episode, host Trent sits down with Jaime Fernandez, Assistant Director and Performance Enhancement Coach at the University of Arizona, to continue the conversation around what truly supports young athletes in today’s evolving sporting landscape.

Building on our previous discussion around development pathways and preparation, this episode dives deeper into two major forces shaping modern sport: mental performance support and NIL (Name, Image, Likeness).
We unpack the changing stigma around sports psychology, clarifying the difference between clinical mental health support and mental performance coaching. Is working with a sports psych now viewed the sa...

What really builds resilience in young athletes?
In this episode, host Trent sits down with Jaime Fernandez, Assistant Director and Performance Enhancement Coach at the University of Arizona, to explore what truly protects athletes over the long term — especially when injuries, pressure, and performance expectations collide.

Following up on our previous conversation about pathways and preparation, this episode dives into what happens after setbacks and how performance teams in US colleges approach return-to-play and mental performance. It’s designed for coaches, parents, and practitioners who want to better support youth athletes’ development.

In this episode, host Trent and coach Alex unpack one of the biggest hidden risks in modern youth sport: too much repetition and not enough variability.
As young athletes progress from club to representative levels, training volumes increase, competition intensifies, and the same movement patterns are repeated again and again. Over time, this leads to underdeveloped physical qualities, movement compensations, overload, and a rising rate of overuse and repetitive strain injuries.
We explore:

In this follow up episode, host Trent invites coach Alex to tackle the hidden risks of early specialisation in youth sport. Kids are being pushed harder and earlier than ever, through year-round competitions, 1-on-1 coaching, and sport-specific programs. 

While early wins feel exciting, they can come at a cost: burnout, injury, and a narrow foundation of athleticism. 

We cover: Why kids’ limits are lower than teens or adults and why respecting those limits matters

How overemphasis on competition and sport-specific training can stunt long-term growth

The power of multi-sport play, general athl...

In this episode, host Trent invites coach Alex to tackle the hidden risks of early specialisation in youth sport. Kids are being pushed harder and earlier than ever, through year-round competitions, 1-on-1 coaching, and sport-specific programs. 

While early wins feel exciting, they can come at a cost: burnout, injury, and a narrow foundation of athleticism.We cover:Why kids’ limits are lower than teens or adults and why respecting those limits mattersHow overemphasis on competition and sport-specific training can stunt long-term growthThe power of multi-sport play, general athletic development, and varied movementBalancing passion vs. pressure and avoiding fal...

In the second half of the episode, Trent and Gracie unpack what it really takes to prepare for life as a U.S. college soccer athlete. Gracie reflects on what she thought mattered before leaving Australia versus what actually made the biggest difference — physically, mentally, and in her day-to-day training habits.

She shares an honest look at life at Rocky Mountain College, including her degree choice, weekly schedule, and how she balances classes, training, games, and recovery, as well as the challenges of training at altitude. Gracie also compares the NAIA standard to NPLW and explains why te...

Host Trent sits down with Gracie to discuss her journey from NPLW football in Australia to beginning her first semester at Rocky Mountain College in the USA (NAIA). A former Football Victoria Emerging Matildas squad member, Gracie shares the key lessons that shaped her pathway and why her experience is relevant for young female athletes and parents considering US college soccer.

They cover early challenges, including injury setbacks and how improving preparation and activation routines played a major role in building confidence, availability, and performance. Gracie also reflects on the demands of NPLW and elite development environments...

This week, host Trent sits down with Coach Jack to break down how youth athletes can make the most of their off-season — by training with purpose, not just doing more.

Together they unpack how to identify individual needs through proper assessment — because not every athlete needs the same focus. 

Whether it’s building strength for more speed, improving mobility for better movement, or addressing lingering niggles, they show you how to pinpoint what really matters for your sport.

You’ll also learn how to structure a balanced weekly routine around school, holidays...

Most young athletes think the off-season is for rest — or for grinding nonstop. The truth? 

The off-season is where real progress happens if you train smart.

In this episode, host Trent and coach Jack unpack how to use the off-season to recover, rebuild, and gain a real edge before pre-season kicks off. You’ll learn the difference between off-season and pre-season training, how to avoid common mistakes, and how to tailor training to what you actually need — not just what your mates are doing.

For parents and athletes who want to make...

In this episode, Trent and Colby Zaph of Melbourne Lacrosse Academy, dive into the Academy’s exciting expansion plans, from seasonal programs and skill-building camps to specialised clinics designed to support youth athletes and grow the game across Australia. 

They discuss how parents of lacrosse athletes can play a role in their child’s development, the importance of coaching development, talent pathways, and how players, coaches, and sponsors can get involved in shaping the future of lacrosse.

We also get personal with quick-fire questions: favourite lacrosse memories, the biggest challenges faced, and dreams for the sport...

Trent sits down with Colby Zaph, co-founder of the Melbourne Lacrosse Academy, to share how the Academy helps young players develop their skills, confidence, and athleticism.

Colby explains why he started the Academy, what makes it different from regular clubs, and how he combines skill training, strength & conditioning, and player-focused coaching to give kids a clear path to improve. He reflects on the first yeart - the wins, challenges, and lessons - and shares feedback from both players and parents.

Plus, Colby talks about the future of lacrosse in Australia: more opportunities for...

In this episode, host Trent sits down with Colby Zaph, co-founder with his wife Lynda Fletcher, and director of Melbourne Lacrosse Academy (MLA) - to unpack the vision behind one of Australia’s fastest-growing youth lacrosse programs. Seeing a gap in how the sport was delivered to young players, Colby set out to design a pathway that combines high-quality coaching, clear structure and a supportive culture inspired by the best of North American lacrosse.

He shares how MLA was built from the ground up, the mission and values driving every session, and why the Academy offers so...

In this episode, host Trent sits down with Brandon from SOMA PF to explore how objective data—like InBody scans, attendance, and RPE scores—can spark constructive conversations with youth athletes and their parents, removing emotion and focusing on real progress.

They discuss why some young athletes disengage—whether due to burnout, fear, or pressure from parents—and how Brandon re-engages them. He shares his approach to supporting vulnerable kids who may be reluctant to participate, using trust-building and open conversations to help them navigate challenges. A key part of his method is empowering athletes to make their ow...

In this follow-up episode, Trent chats with Brandon from SOMA Performance about how young athletes can take control of their development by focusing on the fundamentals: sleep, nutrition, and mindset. 

They also explore how tracking simple metrics like attendance, perceived exertion (RPE), and body scans can improve communication between athletes, coaches, and parents. Discover practical strategies to remove the guesswork, maintain motivation, and build habits that last both in and out of sport. 

Discover more about the Inner Athlete Youth Athlete Development Course – Click here for full details: https://inner-athlete.com.au/cour...

Parents and athletes are often told that “more training equals more success.” But what if the real key to long-term performance is actually doing less?

In this episode, host Trent sits down with Brandon from SOMA Performance & Fitness to unpack why recovery, quality over quantity, and health-first approaches are critical for young athletes. From working with adolescents in clinical settings to tackling the pressures of hustle culture, Brandon shares powerful insights for parents who want to support their child’s sporting journey, without burning them out.

Whether your child is chasing elite sport or just findin...

In Part 3 of this series, host Trent is joined by mindset coach Kathryn Green to explore how confidence, feedback, and self-worth shape long-term performance in young athletes.
Together, they unpack how to deliver feedback that builds ownership and belief, not pressure or burnout. Kathryn shares simple but powerful tools for helping kids stay grounded under pressure and anchored in who they are, not just what they achieve.
This episode also dives into the role parents play in becoming a calm, trusted support, knowing when to coach, when to comfort, and how to work alongside teachers, mentors, and...

In this episode, Trent chats with mindset coach Kathryn Green about the real keys to youth development: confidence and calm. They unpack why confidence grows from competence, not just praise, and how a safe space to fail helps kids thrive.    

Kathryn shares her supportive coaching approach and simple tools parents can use to track progress and celebrate wins.They tackle performance anxiety in young athletes, offering practical techniques like box breathing and NLP anchoring to help kids stay calm and focused under pressure. Perfect for parents wanting to boost their child’s game and school success!                                                                            

Discover more about the Inner Athlete Yout...

In this episode, Trent sits down with performance coach Kathryn Green to explore the emotional toll that high expectations can take on young athletes and students.

They dive into the challenges kids face when their self-worth becomes tied to performance, and how perfectionism, pressure, and comparison can quietly erode confidence and joy. Kathryn shares insights from her work in self-worth and mindset coaching, helping parents and coaches understand what kids really need to thrive.

You’ll learn how to shift from performance-based validation to belief-building, the power of the belief cycle, and why acknowledging effort ma...

In this episode, Trent and Chad Ronk, former NCAA Division II athlete and Melbourne youth coach, discuss the future of junior lacrosse in Australia. They compare the U.S. development pathways with Australia’s community-based system, highlighting strengths and opportunities for growth. Chad shares his coaching philosophy and vision for youth development, emphasizing skills, balance, and enjoyment.                                                                                                      

Packed with practical advice for players and parents, this episode is essential for anyone passionate about Australian lacrosse.                                                                  

Discover more about the Inner Athlete Youth Athlete Development Course – Click here for full details: https://inner-athlete.com.au/courses

Boost your young athlete's performance – Schedule your FREE Discovery Call now: info...

What happens when U.S. college-level lacrosse experience meets Australia’s grassroots sports culture? In this episode, host Trent sits down with Chad Ronk, a former NCAA Division II athlete turned youth coach in Melbourne, to unpack how international insights are reshaping the future of junior lacrosse in Australia.

Chad shares his journey from the intensity of D2 college lacrosse to building up the next generation of players here at home. With firsthand experience in both systems, he breaks down the key differences in training, pathways, and mindset—and what Australian lacrosse can learn (or do differently) to c...

In Part 2 of our conversation with Mat Crawford, Head Coach of the Bentleigh Greens U15 Girls, we dive into the real-world outcomes of his coaching philosophy. Matt shares powerful success stories from his players’ journeys, highlighting the habits, mindset shifts, and key moments that helped them grow.

We also explore the biggest lessons Matt has learned throughout his coaching career and his advice for parents and coaches who want to support young female athletes in the most effective way. Whether you're guiding a team or raising a future footballer, this episode delivers valuable insight into how lo...

What does it take to shape not just skilled footballers, but confident, resilient young women on and off the pitch?

 In this episode, Trent sits down with Matt Crawford, Head Coach of the Bentleigh Greens U15 Girls, for an honest and insightful conversation about the real work behind developing youth female athletes.

The discussion explores Matt’s coaching journey and the philosophy that drives his approach, as well as the key areas of development he focuses on with young players. From technical growth and football intelligence to mindset and character, Matt shares the principles he bel...

In this powerful follow-up episode, Trent welcomes back concussion expert Dr. Alan Pearce  about one of sport’s most misunderstood issues. Together, they bust common concussion myths, explore how early exposure to brain impacts can affect long-term performance, and explain what every athlete, parent, and coach should understand to protect the developing brain.

If you're part of the sporting world, this is one episode you can’t afford to miss.

To learn more about concussion and the resources available visit: https://concussionfoundation.org/en-au/

Instagram: @alanpearcephd

To find out more...

In this eye-opening episode, Trent Pirihi, Owner and Head Strength Coach of inner Athlete speaks with renowned neuroscientist Professor Alan Pearce about concussions and their ripple effects on the brain.

From the short and long-term consequences of head trauma to the nuanced differences between children and youth,  They also unpack common myths, discuss the link between concussion and neurodegenerative conditions like Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) and Motor Neuron Disease (MND), and explore what athletes, parents, and coaches need to know.

This episode brings clarity to a complex topic that’s more relevant than ever.

D...

In this follow-up episode, Trent and Wisconsin University's Billy Breider dive even deeper into the world of strength and conditioning for swimmers. 

They explore the science behind dryland training, periodisation strategies, injury prevention, and how strength and conditioning translates to peak performance in the water. 

From the unique training methods at the University of Wisconsin to real-world applications for swimmers at all levels, this episode is packed with expert insights and actionable takeaways. 

Tune in as Trent and Billy break down what it really takes to build stronger, faster, and more resilient swimmers!

Join host Trent as he sits down with Billy Breider to dive into the unique strength and conditioning  philosophy at the University of Wisconsin. 

They’ll explore the training methodologies, athlete development strategies, and performance insights that set Wisconsin apart in the world of collegiate swimming. 

Whether you're a coach, athlete, or sports performance enthusiast, this episode offers a deep dive into how science, innovation, and culture shape elite-level swimming success. 

Discover more about the Inner Athlete Youth Athlete Development Course – Click here for full details: https://inner-athlete.com.au/courses

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