Between Two Coaches
Join Between Two Coaches, a weekly podcast helping you enjoy the fitness world with a more human approach. Each episode, we’ll bring problems faced in the fitness community to the surface and share solutions on creating a more sustainable, balanced mindset around your training goals. Consider this podcast your “go-to” on all things fitness, from a loving, supportive, no BS lens.
When Discipline Goes from Empowering to Disordered In Running and Fitness
In this episode, Coaches Amanda and Coach Nick explore the complex relationship between discipline and disorder in fitness & running, emphasizing the importance of intention behind actions. They discuss personal experiences, the impact of social media on fitness culture, and the need for a supportive community. The conversation highlights the fine line between healthy discipline and disordered behaviors, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own fitness journeys.
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(00:00) Introduction and Technical Setup
(00:31) Weekend Recap and Running Experiences
(08:32) Grievances in the Fitness Community
(15:54) Discipline vs. Disorder in Fitness
(22:02) The...
Training Plans are Dead? Long Live Adaptability
In this episode, Amanda and Nick discuss the evolution of training plans in the fitness world, particularly focusing on the shift from rigid structures to more adaptable and flexible approaches. They explore the challenges faced by athletes when adhering to traditional training plans, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and communication between coaches and athletes. The conversation highlights the need for adaptability in coaching, allowing athletes to make informed decisions based on their physical and mental states, ultimately leading to better performance and longevity in their training.----------------------------------
(00:00) Introduction and Technical Issues
(00:33) The Evolution of Training...
The Team Behind the Runner - The Fantastic Four
In this episode, Coach Nick and Coach Amanda are joined by Dr. Vicky Sekely and Holley Samuel as they discuss the importance of a multidisciplinary team in fitness, particularly focusing on the roles of a running coach, sports dietitian, strength coach, and physical therapist. They explore how collaboration among these professionals can enhance an athlete's performance and recovery, emphasizing the need for communication and trust within the support squad. The conversation also touches on the significance of nutrition, the differences between dietitians and nutritionists, and the challenges athletes face when navigating injuries. Overall, the episode highlights the value of...
Too Fit to Rest Mentality: When Progress Becomes a Trap
In this episode of Between Two Coaches, Amanda and Nick discuss the prevalent 'too fit to rest' mentality among athletes, particularly runners. They explore the psychological barriers that prevent individuals from taking necessary rest days and how this mindset can lead to burnout and injuries. The conversation emphasizes the importance of reframing rest as a crucial component of training rather than a setback. They provide practical tips for incorporating rest into training schedules and highlight the need for hobbies outside of running to maintain a balanced lifestyle. The episode concludes with a reminder that rest is essential for long-term...
If You Could Do it All Over Again, What Would You Change?
In this episode, Nick and Amanda reflect on their personal and athletic journeys, discussing the lessons learned from their experiences. They explore the importance of community support in running, the value of standing up for oneself, and the impact of embracing one's true self. The conversation also touches on the significance of rest and recovery in athletic training, as well as the challenges of navigating social dynamics. As they wrap up the season, they express gratitude for their listeners and share their excitement for future episodes.----------------------------------------
(00:00) Weather and Waterbeds: A Lighthearted Start
(02:04) Real Life...
Navigating the Fitness Coaching Landscape
In this episode, Nick Klastava and Amanda Katz explore the evolving landscape of fitness coaching, particularly the impact of social media influencers entering the industry. They discuss the importance of authentic relationships between coaches and athletes, the challenges of navigating the coaching landscape, and the significance of finding the right fit for both coaches and clients. The conversation emphasizes the need for genuine passion in coaching, the pitfalls of inauthentic marketing, and the value of communication in building successful coaching relationships.
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(00:00) Topic Teaser
(09:33) The Rise of Fitness Influencers
(13:28) The Importance...
Getting Personal with the Coaches of Between Two Coaches
In this episode of Between Two Coaches', hosts Nick Klastava and Amanda Katz welcome Kristen as the Guest host!. Kristen got to ask Nick and Amanda a bunch of audience question leading a lively discussion about personal updates, the evolution of social media in the running community, and the importance of support in coaching. The conversation flows through various topics, including running news, personal growth as coaches, and the advice they give to athletes. The episode wraps up with Kristen's insightful answers to the secret questions, highlighting the simplicity of running and the value of hard work.
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Who Gets to Run? Breaking Down Barriers in the Sport with Stephanie Diaz
In this episode, hosts Nick Klastava and Amanda welcome Stephanie Diaz, a runner and coach, to discuss the barriers in the running community. They explore Stephanie's journey into running, the importance of community, inclusivity, and the impact of social media on perceptions of running. The conversation also touches on financial accessibility in the sport, the significance of gear and representation, and how brands can better cater to diverse runners. The episode concludes with advice on making running more welcoming and a fun round of secret questions.
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(00:00) Welcome to our Guest Stephanie
(05:18) Mastercard...
Run Club With Your Ex, Gaining Weight, Ignoring Your Doctor! & More: Reddit Reads
In this episode, hosts Nick and Amanda have another AITAH episode and discuss various themes related to fitness, coaching, and personal growth. They explore the challenges of being your own boss, the importance of patience in achieving fitness goals, inclusivity, and the fallacy of arrival in the pursuit of success. The conversation also involes some Reddit reads on inclusivity in sports, navigating post-breakup social situations, and the role of doctors in providing nutrition advice. Additionally, they discuss injury recovery, the significance of community support, and the challenges of implementing environmental initiatives in running events.
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(00:00...
AI and Coaching: A Double-Edged Sword
In this episode, Nick and Amanda discuss the impact of AI on the fitness and coaching industry. They explore personal experiences, the limitations of AI in understanding human emotions and needs, and the importance of the human element in coaching. The conversation emphasizes the necessity of investing in personal health and the value of having a coach to navigate the complexities of fitness training and personal training. The conversation also really gets into technology and the good and negative impacts it can have in your growth as an athlete.
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00:00 Personal Experiences and Achievements
<...How Controlling the Controllables Can Stop you From Sabotaging Your Race
In this episode of 'Between Two Coaches', hosts Nick Klastava and Amanda discuss the importance of controlling the controllables in training and racing, especially in the face of environmental challenges such as heat and humidity. They share personal experiences from recent races, emphasizing the need for adaptability and listening to one's body during races. The conversation also touches on hydration strategies, heat acclimation, and the mental aspects of racing, encouraging listeners to put their egos aside and focus on their well-being during races.
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(00:00) Introduction to the Podcast and Heat Acclimation
(00:32) Controlling the...
How to Navigate the Tough Days: Mental Health and Exercise
In this episode, Coach Amanda and Coach Nick discuss the importance of mental health awareness, especially in relation to fitness and exercise. They explore the emotional complexities surrounding life changes, the significance of self-care, and the role of therapy in maintaining mental well-being. The conversation also delves into the potential pitfalls of exercise addiction and the necessity of having a diverse support system outside of fitness. Through personal anecdotes and professional insights, they emphasize the importance of addressing mental health proactively and the value of vulnerability in fostering connections.
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(00:00) Navigating Career Transitions
(13:43...
Caring in a Nonchalant World: A Fitness Perspective
In this episode, Amanda and Nick discuss the societal trend of downplaying effort and the importance of caring in fitness and life. They explore how social media influences perceptions of achievement and the value of vulnerability in sharing one's journey. They talk about motivation, vulnerability and how community can help. The conversation emphasizes that caring about goals and trying hard is essential for personal growth and community support.
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(00:00) Intro
(13:18) Caring in a World That Rewards Apathy
(20:37) Facing Goals and Disappointments
(26:28) The Importance of Caring
(32:32) Vulnerability in...
The Good, The Bad, The Boston Marathon Experience: Nick's Version
In this episode, Amanda and Nick discuss Nick's recent experience at the Boston Marathon, sharing personal updates, challenges faced during the race, and insights from listener questions. They reflect on the joy of combining roles as a coach, athlete, and parent, and emphasize the importance of celebrating every finish line. The conversation also touches on the evolving nature of major marathons and the influence of social media on the running community.
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(00:00) Intro
(08:20) Listener Questions and Insights
(14:01) Unexpected Joys of Running
(19:33) Experiencing the Marathon Atmosphere
(20:57) Pre-Race Rituals...
Stress is Stress! Everything You Need to Know About Balancing Training & Life
In this conversation, Coach Nick and Coach Amanda discuss the various stressors in life and their impact on both mental and physical health. They explore how stress affects athletes and the importance of coaching through these challenges. The discussion also highlights personal strategies for managing stress, the significance of support systems, and the need for flexibility in training and life. The hosts emphasize that understanding and addressing stress is crucial for overall well-being, personal growth and performance.
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(00:00) Our Weeks
(15:03) Understanding Stress and Its Effects on Performance
(25:37) The Role of Coaches...
It's Never Too Late To Do Something For Yourself with Shanna Birchett
In this episode, Amanda and Nick welcome Shanna Birchett, a mother of six and passionate runner, to discuss her journey back to running after a long hiatus. They discuss some of the recent downhill controversies in running. They explore the challenges of balancing motherhood and personal fitness, the importance of supportive coaching, and the need for empathy in the running community. Shanna shares her experiences with postpartum running, the significance of including family in her running journey, and the lessons learned about self-care and personal growth. The conversation emphasizes that it's never too late to pursue personal goals and...
Gaining Weight to Thrive in Running, Life and Fitness
In this episode, Nick and Amanda discuss the importance of weight management and nutrition for runners, emphasizing that gaining weight can be a normal part of training. They talk about the skinnytok trend and they explore the misconceptions surrounding weight loss and performance, the significance of proper fueling, and the emotional aspects of body image. The conversation also addresses how to handle external comments about nutrition and the importance of treating oneself as an athlete.
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(00:00) Weekly Updates and Personal Stories
(11:08) Discussion on Creatine and Its Benefits
(12:41) The Importance of Proper...
What 99% of Runners Are Missing with Sports Scientist Jonah Rosner
In this episode of Between Two Coaches, hosts Nick Klastava and Amanda engage with Jonah Rosner, a former NFL Sports Scientist, now an Elite Running Scientist to explore the intersection of exercise science and coaching. They discuss the importance of understanding scientific studies, the impact of social media on fitness trends, and the need for coaches to navigate the complexities of individual athlete needs. The conversation emphasizes the significance of applying research thoughtfully, avoiding extremism in fitness advice, and the potential future of coaching with AI and technology.
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(00:00) Introduction to the Podcast and Guest<...
Our Race Weekend Recaps, Rituals and More!!
In this episode, Nick and Amanda share their personal experiences leading up to recent races, discussing pre-race routines, race day preparations, and how they support their athletes as coaches. They explore the emotional and logistical aspects of racing, including the challenges of managing nerves and expectations, and the importance of creating a supportive environment for athletes. The conversation highlights the human side of fitness and the unique approaches each coach takes in preparing for races.
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(00:00) Introduction and Our Week
(19:15) Pre-Race Rituals and Mindset
(28:30) Race Morning Preparations
(41:05) Race Day...
5 Years Later, How The Running and Fitness World Changed After the Pandemic
In this episode, Amanda and Nick discuss the profound changes in the fitness and running world since the Pandemic. They explore personal transformations, the shift to virtual coaching, mental health challenges, and the emergence of new opportunities in the fitness industry. The conversation highlights the impact of social media on gym culture and the overall fitness boom, emphasizing the importance of community and connection in a post-pandemic world.
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(00:00) Intro and Our Weeks
(11:49) 5 Years Later our Pandemic Reflections on Our Lives
(16:00) The Future of Fitness and Running Post-Pandemic
(21:24) The...
Like Watching a Trainwreck: Social Media's Obession with Fitness Influencers
In this episode, Nick and Amanda discuss the complexities of social media's influence on fitness culture. They explore the ethical implications of influencer marketing, the responsibility of influencers to their followers, and the societal obsession with fitness aesthetics. The conversation emphasizes the need for education and awareness in the fitness community, as well as the importance of recognizing the difference between social media popularity and genuine expertise.
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(00:00) Real Life Updates and Reflections
(04:44) Balancing Stress and Running Goals
(06:17) Post-Vacation Reflections
(11:01) Listener Engagement and Reviews
(11:44) Social Media Influencers...
Nothing Happens Just Because with RD Kelsey Pontius
In this episode, Coach Amanda and Coach Nick welcome Kelsey Pontius, a registered dietitian and Olympic marathon trials qualifier. They discuss the importance of nutrition in sports, the common misconceptions around energy availability, and the impact of social media on athletes' perceptions of their bodies and performance. Kelsey shares her experiences working with athletes and emphasizes the need for proper nutrition to support training and recovery. The conversation also touches on the challenges of maintaining a healthy relationship with food in a culture that often prioritizes weight loss over performance.
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(00:00) Introduction and Meet our...
Is Your Coach Setting You Up for Success?
In this episode of 'Between Two Coaches', Amanda and Nick discuss the importance of creating a supportive environment for athletes. They explore how communication, feedback, and community play crucial roles in coaching success. The conversation emphasizes the need for coaches to lead by example, celebrate both wins and losses, and allow athletes to take risks and learn from their experiences. Ultimately, they highlight the significance of fostering a positive and inclusive atmosphere that encourages growth and connection among athletes.
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(00:00) Personal Updates and Invisalign Journey
(06:37) Nick's Marathon Training and Super Bowl Experience
<...Toxic Fitness & Running Behaviors that Needed to Expire Yesterday
In this episode of Between Two Coaches. hosts Nick and Amanda kick off Season Two with personal updates, grievances about the fitness community, and a deep dive into toxic fitness culture. They discuss the ongoing debate about fueling during runs, the 'more is better' mentality in training, and the dangers of working out through injuries. The episode concludes with exciting news about their upcoming Patreon launch!
-------------------------------- (00:00) Intro
(02:48) Catching up with us
(11:49) Listener Review and a Grievance
(19:35) Anouncement Crank Sports
(23:12) Fueling Strategies: The Gel Debate
(30:52) The More...
Between Two Coaches Wrapped! What We Learned & Loved
In the season finale of 'Between Two Coaches', hosts Coach Amanda and Coach Nick reflect on their journey through the first season, discussing their favorite moments, listener questions, and grievances about common fitness trends. They delve into the importance of proper cold weather gear for running, share personal growth experiences, and emphasize the significance of coaching the whole human. The episode wraps up with a look ahead to season two, inviting listeners to share their thoughts and suggestions.
----------------------------- (00:00) Intro and our Weeks
(05:56) Winter Running Gear Essentials and a Review
(15:53) End of Year...
"Healthy Addictions" Don't Exist: Sobriety and Recovery with Ultrarunner & Coach Robbie Pike
In this episode, hosts Coach Amanda and Coach Nick engage in a deep conversation with ultra runner, coach, and recovery advocate Robbie Pike. They explore the challenges of podcasting, Robbie's personal journey through addiction and recovery, and the complexities of cross addiction. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding the difference between sobriety and recovery, the need for emotional growth, and the significance of finding joy in life beyond addiction. Robbie shares his insights on the struggles of maintaining sobriety, the societal perceptions of addiction, and the importance of community support in the recovery process.
---------------------------------------- (00:00) Intro...
Injured? Nutrition Tips for Speedy Recovery with Sports Dietitian Claire Shorenstein
In this episode, the Coach Nick and Coach Amanda discuss the importance of self-care, nutrition, and injury recovery with sports dietitian Claire Shorenstein. Claire shares her journey into sports nutrition, emphasizing the need for balanced eating patterns, especially for athletes and talks about her favorite travel foods and holiday season eating. The conversation delves into the role of nutrition in injury recovery, highlighting the significance of adequate energy intake and the impact of inflammation. Additionally, they explore nutrition for bone health, discussing essential nutrients and the importance of strength training. In this conversation, Amanda and Claire discuss the importance...
Reddit's Spookiest Stories: Coach Reactions Part 2
In this episode of Between Two Coaches, hosts Amanda and Nick take on Part of of their Reddit reactions. They explore various themes surrounding fitness, including body image issues faced by fitness professionals, coping strategies for race deferment, effective communication with personal trainers, and the dynamics of friendship in the context of marathon training. They emphasize the importance of understanding that fitness is not solely defined by appearance, the necessity of proper nutrition and hydration, and the value of setting boundaries in professional relationships.
---------------------------- (00:00) Introduction to the Episode
(05:58) Body Image and Fitness Professionals
<...Reddit's Spookiest Stories: Coach Reactions
In this engaging conversation, Nick and Amanda go through and give their coach reactions to a bunch of reddit posts that have topics ranging from personal anecdotes about costumes and spooky experiences to discussions on health, wellness, and event planning. They talk about race experiences, exercising while on vacationm, running the NYC Marathon shirtless and how to handle carb loading properly. As they go through each reddit post they offer their insights and just react to the situtation that is being written about in the wellness world. You won't want to miss the fun engaging conversations around these wild...
Race Recaps & Coach Thoughts: Unscripted!
In this episode of 'Between Two Coaches', Amanda and Nick share personal updates and race experiences, discussing the highs and lows of marathon training and racing. They delve into Amanda's recent marathon experience at the Steamtown Marathon, including pre-race anxiety and health concerns, as well as the challenges faced on race day. Nick talks about his experience with the Baltimore Marathon and his ghost running kit! The conversation highlights the importance of community in running, respecting the marathon distance, and enjoying the journey rather than focusing solely on performance. They conclude with reflections on the significance of personal growth...
Coaching the Whole Human Series: Mental Skills Coach Dr. Carrie Jackson & Journalist Cindy Kuzma
In this episode, Amanda, Nick, Carrie, and Cindy discuss the importance of mental skills coaching in athletics, emphasizing the need to coach the whole human. They explore the role of mental resilience, the significance of support systems for injured athletes, and the importance of celebrating milestones in athletic journeys. The conversation also touches on the journey of writing the book 'Rebound' and the various mantras that can help athletes maintain a positive mindset. Ultimately, they highlight the essence of resilience in sports and the need for a supportive community. --------------------------------
(00:00) Introduction and Banter
(04:35) The Importance...
Coaching the Whole Human Series: Psychologist Dr. Lara Pence
In this episode of Between Two Coaches, Coach Amanda and Coach Nick engage in a deep conversation with Dr. Lara Pence, a clinical psychologist specializing in working with athletes. They explore the concept of coaching the whole human, emphasizing the importance of understanding athletes beyond their performance metrics. Dr. Pence shares insights on the role of curiosity in coaching, the significance of building relationships with athletes, and the necessity of setting boundaries. The discussion also highlights the Coaches Collective, a program designed to equip coaches with the skills to support their athletes' mental health and well-being. The episode concludes...
Coaching the Whole Human Series: Run Coach Mario Fraioli
In this episode of Between Two Coaches, Coach Amanda and Coach Nick welcome running coach Mario Fraioli for Part 1 in their Series Called Coaching the Whole Human. In this discussion they talk about the evolution of coaching, the importance of communication, and the philosophy behind coaching the whole human. Mario shares his journey in the running world, the significance of building relationships with athletes, and how to navigate the complexities of coaching while maintaining a balance in life. The conversation emphasizes the need for coaches to be effective communicators and to understand the individual needs of their athletes, ultimately...
A Human Approach to Physical Therapy, Navigating Injury & Sports Specialization with Dr. Leada
In this episode, hosts Amanda and Nick welcome Dr. Leada Malek, a physical therapist, to discuss various aspects of physical therapy, injury prevention, and the mental and nutritional factors that influence recovery. They explore the importance of prehab, when to seek therapy, the mental challenges athletes face during injuries, and the significance of nutrition in healing. Additionally, they touch on the topic of youth sports and the risks of early specialization. The conversation concludes with rapid-fire questions that reveal more about Dr. Malek's insights and experiences in the field.
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(00:00) Introduction with Guest
(04:11...
I Can’t Believe Other People Don’t Do This… Marathon Edition
In this episode of Between Two Coaches, Amanda and Nick discuss various aspects of marathon training and things they can't believe other people don't do. They also share some personal updates Like Nick doing his first workout in 6 months, do some listener engagement with questions and reviews, and share some grievances surrounding the Boston Marathon. They emphasize the importance of proper fueling, tapering, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle while training for marathons. The conversation is filled with humor, personal anecdotes, and valuable advice for runners of all levels.
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(00:00) Intro
(00:51) Our Week and...
A Very Nick Episode - A Running Love Story
In this conversation, Coach Amanda and Coach Nick discuss their recent experiences and answer listener questions. They talk about Amanda's trip to Chicago for Brooks HypeFest and Nick's struggles with illness and training. They also share a grievance about influencers and pushing supplements as performance enhancers. In this conversation, Nick shares his personal journey with running and how it has been a constant in his life for the past 28 years. He talks about how running helped him feel a sense of belonging and community, and how it has transformed his life in various ways. Nick emphasizes the importance of...
Get Fast, Stay Fit, Be Fueled! A Conversation with Dr. Stacy Sims
On this episode Coach Nick and Coach Amanda are joined by Dr. Stacy Sims, a female athlete performance physiologist, to discuss the physiological differences in training and nutrition for women, particularly during perimenopause. In this episode the three talk about how training, fueling and recovery needs are all different in women vs men especially when it comes to perimenopause and menopause. Dr. Sims and Coach Amanda emphasize the importance of lifting heavy weights for women, as estrogen is responsible for muscle growth and strength. The three also highlights the benefits of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and sprint interval training...
Need or Nah Part 4: Recovery Edition
In this conversation, the Coach Nick and Coach Amanda are joined by Leah Avery and Winnie Lizardo to discuss various topics related to physical therapy and recovery for Part 4 of the Need or Nah Series. They cover the effectiveness of recovery tools such as massage, compression boots, and Theragun, and also discuss the use of cold therapy and icing. They also highlight the dangers of overtraining and the importance of listening to your body. The episode concludes with the guests sharing their personal experiences and offer advice on how to incorporate rest into training programs. Overall, the conversation emphasizes...
Need or Nah Part 3: Running Edition
In this episode Coach Nick and Coach Amanda have guests Elisabeth Scott and Toni Kengor on for part 3 of the Need or Nah Series talking about all things running. The guests share how they have all met one another and share their experiences with running and then dive into a range of topics and whether they are Needs or Nahs in the running world. The topics range from carbon plates shoes and strava to ending runs on round numbers. The 4 coaches share experiences and laughs and tons of their thoughts on each topic and cut through all the BS.<...
Need or Nah Series: Part 2 Nutrition Edition
Welcome to Part 2 of the Need/Nah Series all about Nutrition. Coach Nick and Coach Amanda are joined by Registered Dietitians Stevie Lyn Smith and Kylee Van Horn and they discuss various topics including the importance of getting your period for athletes, the risks of consuming raw milk, and the role of processed foods in an athlete's diet. They dive into nutrition and supplements and they talk about the importance of meeting carbohydrate needs, the misconception around processed foods, and the use of collagen supplements. They also touch on the issue of before and after photos and the promotion...
