S&C Intern Chit Chat

Join us for an insightful conversation with Zach Fowler of The Performance Course. We dive into non-traditional career paths in strength and conditioning, moving beyond college and high school coaching. Zach shares his journey from an 8-year-old athlete at PC to a Site Coordinator, the critical importance of initiative for young strength coaches, and how PC utilizes technology and specialized programming (including tiered systems and VBT) to train high school athletes. Plus, hear his recommendations for essential coaching qualities, a must-read book, and a top-tier podcast.

SOCIAL:

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The "S&C Chit Chat with Ross Garner" includes conversation about facility conflicts, staff introductions, and an in-depth look at Ross Garner's career path and high school strength and conditioning philosophies. Career Advice: Master's in Education + CSCS provides best job security for high school S&C coaches.

Michael Gragg does a phenomenal job at Harding University and in this podcast. I on the other hand did less than desirable in pressing record for the first 10 minutes.

Tune in for a "S&C Chit Chat" with Coach Michael Gragg from Harding University. We break down the technical and philosophical pillars of their national championship-winning strength and conditioning program. Topics include: the use of Catapult GPS, VBT systems (Vitru), and a Just Jump mat for athlete readiness; the high-low, four-day offseason training split; and the core importance of ground-based movement, team culture, and earned player autonomy.<...

In this episode, James Burk, Brock Calvo, Jaxson Money, and Colin Elliot chat with HSU alumni Cameron Prater, an alum who is now the Internship Coordinator and Sports Science Coordinator for SMU Football. They dive into Prader's career journey, from his time at Hardin-Simmons University to his professional blueprint. The discussion covers his philosophy for training interns—prioritizing hard work and on-time arrival—and the core principles of SMU's football strength and conditioning program, including their four-day upper/lower split, daily posterior chain work, and the use of the Catapult system with "Player Load" as a key metric.

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In this must-listen episode of S&C Chit Chat, we sit down with John Bloom—Strength and Conditioning Coach at Parish Episcopal School, founder of Elevated Athlete Development, and host/author of the Strength and Numbers podcast and book. John provides incredible insight into his transition from collegiate D1 men's basketball to running his own private business, Elevated Athlete Development, discussing the motivations for seeking greater autonomy. We dive deep into:

S&C Chit Chat is your essential resource for actionable strength and conditioning coaching philosophies. Join us as we dive deep with leading experts like Coach Scott Leech of Rhode Island to discuss cutting-edge athlete development. We cover everything from programming strategies—including prioritizing RDLs and a five-day high-low offseason structure—to hands-on coaching techniques like "scores and stops" and "contact prep" drills. Gain the confidence and practical knowledge you need to build athlete buy-in and implement new methods, moving beyond "old school" ways. Perfect for coaches, interns, and anyone passionate about modern S&C.

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In this candid chat with Colton Razo from Ohio State University, we dive deep into the strength and conditioning profession. Coach Razo shares invaluable advice for young coaches on networking professionally (using LinkedIn and respectful outreach) and discusses the unexpected administrative challenges of a full-time role, including their successful experience with writing grants. We also cover their systematic approach to track and field workout design, the use of Velocity-Based Training (VBT) devices for program evaluation, and a coaching philosophy that prioritizes internal feedback over filming. Plus, get their top book recommendation, Science and Practice of Strength Training by Mel...

In this episode of the S&C Intern Chit Chat Podcast, James Burk and the interns sit down with Nick Mascioli, Strength Coach at Houston Second Baptist, for an in-depth discussion on Long-Term Athletic Development (LTAD). Mascioli breaks down his K-12 progression model, which moves from foundational motor skills in Pre-K to building the habit of measurement with sprinting data in middle school, and finally to "chasing numbers" with key performance indicators (KPIs) and bar speed tracking in high school. The conversation also covers the tactical use of sports science technology—including Output Sport, Dasher, OVR, and the Rock Da...

In this episode of the S&C Intern Chit Chat Podcast, special guest Peter Kenn from SMU dives deep into his strength and conditioning philosophy. He breaks down the tier system as a flexible training management approach, ideal for maintaining training consistency despite missed sessions.

Kenn discusses how he tailors training for diverse Olympic sports like swimming, soccer, and equestrian, emphasizing needs analysis and foundational athleticism. He also offers a transparent look at the SMU internship program, focusing on mentorship, hands-on experience (including using sports science tech like the plymat and Nordboard), and a coaching philosophy that...

Join James Burk and his crew as they chat with Dakota Flash Wilson, D2 Strength and Conditioning Coach at Ouachita Baptist. Coach Wilson shares invaluable insights on his philosophy for success at the D2 level, including prioritizing work ethic in interns, the transition from peer to coach, embracing the "performance coach" role, and the strategic use of Velocity-Based Training (VBT) with Vituv and OVR jump bars. Plus, learn why he believes sleep is the single biggest performance limiter for college athletes and his "blunt one number" approach to communicating data with sport coaches.

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We are incredibly lucky to host a true legend and icon in the strength and conditioning business, Kevin Yoxall (aka Yox).Join us for a deep dive into Yoxall's extensive coaching career from TCU and UCLA to Auburn, his transition to a sales role with Dynamic Fitness and Strength, and the evolution of his training philosophy. He shares invaluable advice for young coaches, including why to avoid the "performance coach" title, the power of strong relationships, and his unwavering belief in mastering the basics and proper technique over overcomplicating training. Yoxall also discusses his experience coaching diverse sports, managing...

David VanDyke, a veteran strength coach at Rutgers, talks about his basketball training philosophy. VanDyke details his risk-averse, "low and slow barbecue approach" to in-season programming, prioritizing consistency and efficiency with short 20–35 minute workouts. Learn how he implements Velocity-Based Training (VBT) using Elite Form, manages load based on individual athlete feedback and minutes played, and utilizes ConnectsOn and Hawkin force plates for athlete monitoring and long-term trend analysis. The discussion also covers soft tissue work for common basketball foot issues, such as the "toe-up knee bend," and VanDyke's key hiring preferences for self-sufficient, professional problem-solvers. Finally, get rapid-fire resource re...

Join host James Burk and the HSU interns as they sit down with Rutgers University Strength and Conditioning Coach Glenn Cain to explore the realities of a career in professional training. Coach Cain dives into his "constant evolution" in training philosophy, his data-driven load management methodology using Polar technology, and the logistical challenges of coaching across Rutgers' sprawling campus facilities. He shares candid insights on the importance of "soft skills," building trust with athletes, and the enduring value of the Springfield College network. This conversation offers invaluable advice for aspiring strength coaches on mentorship, interviewing, and finding your professional "...

This episode is a dynamic Q&A session with a top strength and conditioning professional from Alabama, Michelle Diltz, delving into the nuances of training college cheerleading and softball teams. The discussion covers:

In this episode, we sit down with Bryan Kegans from the University of North Texas Strength & Conditioning program to dissect what it takes to run a successful, high-performing department. Coach Kegans dives into the non-negotiables for their internship, revealing the rigorous selection process, the need for "eager as hell" and proactive individuals, and the resulting high attrition rate that weeds out all but the most committed. He shares the program's success in placing former interns in full-time roles, emphasizing the value of curiosity, the capacity to "grind," and effective athlete interaction as the core traits for entry into the...

Tune in for a deep dive into strength and conditioning with Andrew Nilo, Texas State Baseball / Olympic Director and former Hardin Simmons Cowboy. In this insightful "Chit Chat" session, Andrew Nilo shares his philosophy on goal-oriented training, moving beyond traditional sports science to focus on pressurization and biomechanics. Learn why he prioritizes addressing "hardware" (movement deficiencies) over simply adding "horsepower" (strength) to maximize an athlete's "shelf life," using his unique "engine vs. driver issue" analogy.Nilo also covers:

Coach Strobis, who recently completed his first year with the highly decorated program, dives deep into his philosophy and career path. Topics covered include:

In this episode of S&C Chit Chat, we sit down with Andrew Wright, Strength and Conditioning Coach for Texas Tech Men's Basketball, to explore his career journey from a PE teacher to an Elite 8 collegiate coach. Coach Wright shares invaluable insights on building athlete buy-in, starting with a conservative "one by 20" training approach, and developing a coaching philosophy that is adaptable and player-focused. He also dives into his hiring philosophy, revealing the "golden question" he asks candidates to gauge their passion for the profession. The discussion highlights the critical importance of self-reflection, professionalism, and leveraging assistant coaches to...

We enjoyed chatting with Brandon Hummer, Strength and Conditioning Coach for Georgia Softball, Gymnastics, and Men's Golf. They dive deep into training methodologies, including the use of plyometrics, isometrics, Paloff press, and overhead exercises tailored for different sports. Hummer shares practical insights on game day lifts, travel adaptations, and how to successfully navigate the S&C internship landscape, emphasizing hard work, hands-on experience, and the importance of a head coach's buy-in to sport science data.

SOCIAL:

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In this episode Malorie Henderlong, Auburn's women's soccer coach, discusses her career path, emphasizing the importance of making a good impression, seeking aligned roles, and personal development. She details her daily operations, use of Catapult GPS data, and philosophy on individualized training and speed integration. She advises aspiring sport scientists to communicate data effectively and understand the sport deeply. The conversation also covers interview strategies, the benefits of a shared weight room, and insights into training methodologies for soccer athletes.

SOCIAL:

https://www.instagram.com/stories/malorie_henderlong/

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In this episode, we chat with strength coach and former athlete Sarah Ramey, whose career path has taken her from the weight room to athletic administration. Sarah opens up about her journey, the challenges of finding her coaching voice, and what it takes to earn trust and lead across different sports and personalities. She shares real-world advice for female coaches breaking into the field, insight into managing relationships with sport coaches, and her thoughts on how strength programs can unify entire athletic departments. Packed with career tips, candid stories, and wisdom from years in the game—this conversation is a...

Matt Van Dyke is the Director of Sports Science for the Houston Texans. Matt is responsible for the management of training loads and other performance aspects implemented to each individual athlete in order to maximize performance and readiness. Prior to his position with Houston, Matt was the Associate Director of Applied Sports Science at the University of Texas where he was responsible for the oversight of the football team in regard to training loads and recovery processes applied in order to create an optimal level of performance. Matt has also held leading positions with the University of Denver and...

Coach Cockrill's social:

https://x.com/antcockrill

LINKTREE: https://linktr.ee/anthonycockrill

Other Podcast Coach Cockrill has done:

https://blubrry.com/justflyperformancepodcast/144415799/458-anthony-cockrill-on-squat-dynamics-in-explosive-strength-development/

https://youtu.be/tzDzI7-LkQo?si=KWq64Blz8XnnmRqZ

https://youtu.be/EgZTT5pr-c0?si=6NfZfJ1ba-uVcCn7

https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/anthony-cockrill-mastering-the-approach/id1695907028?i=1000696288123

https://youtu.be/eqBqW52Tp5U?si=9xvnQbKMuU1A3UBc

https://podcasts.apple.com/il/podcast/talkin-pitt-43-elevating-performance-with-coach/id1677557747?i=1000687504739

https://youtu.be/AkTb20AaP-c?si=4GT3-TYQPMr10Kd8

Key Takeaways from this episode:

Recommended books by Coach Jones:

Aret...

Welcome to our very first episode! This pilot is a special one, featuring a conversation with Coach Anthony at Mississippi State, that was so good, it convinced us to start a podcast. It all began when he shared some powerful insights on a striking movement I posted on X. Now, he's here to share his knowledge and wisdom with you. Although this 11-minute clip jumps around a bit, it’s packed with great content, including stories about his start with Yancy McKnight, a discussion on CNS prep circuits, and a little chat about VBT, Deadlifts and the Tier System. We...

Welcome to the very first episode of "S&C Intern Chit Chat"! My name is Coach James Burk, and I am the Head Strength and Conditioning Coach at Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene, Texas. Myself and my staff, primarily interns, goal is to bridge the gap between what is taught in the classroom and what you actually experience in the field.

Think of this podcast as your backstage pass to the world of strength and conditioning. We're going to talk about the practical, real-world experience you need to succeed in this profession. My goal is to help provide...