Be Legendary Podcast

In this episode of Beyond Sets & Reps, I sit down with Rashard Hall, a man who's redefining what it means to be a scholar-athlete. From his days as a standout safety at Clemson under Coach Dabo Swinney to his current mission helping athletes find purpose beyond the game, Rashard's story is all about resilience, faith, and impact. We talk about the mindset that helped him go from a redshirt to an All-American, how adversity prepared him for life after football, and how his passion evolved into founding Scholar Athlete Elite, a company dedicated to developing athletes holistically in sport, career, and character. We also explore the power of relationships and mentorship through our mutual friend Patrick Sapp, and how the bonds built on and off the field can shape entire careers. Rashard's approach reminds us that success is not just about stats or accolades, but about who you become in the process and how you pour into others. If you have ever wondered how to prepare athletes for life beyond competition, this conversation will make you rethink what true development really means. Shoutout to Sorinex and EliteForm for making these episodes possible!  

In the second half of the episode, we take the discussion deeper into the evolution of sport science and the challenges of applying it across different environments. Emaly and I talk about how athletes transition from national teams to their college or professional programs and the difficulties that come with inconsistent resources and data. We also explore how sports scientists are learning to balance the practical realities of technology with the need for accurate and reliable data. The conversation touches on real issues like injury prevention, pain management, and how performance staff can use individualized approaches to make the biggest impact. This part of the episode also focuses on how the role of sports science has become more athlete-facing. It is no longer just about the back-end data. It is about trust, education, and helping athletes make better choices for themselves. We discuss strategies that go beyond the lab, from sleep education to recovery tools, and how coaches and scientists can better listen to athletes about what matters to them. The takeaway here is that true performance progress happens when the science is individualized and when athletes feel empowered to take ownership of their development. Shoutout to Sorinex and EliteForm for making these episodes possible!  

In the first half of my conversation with Emaly Vatne on the Research to Reps Roundtable, we dig into her background as both an Ohio State soccer alum and a sport science researcher. She shares how early experiences with HRV monitoring and internal load metrics sparked her curiosity for performance science and eventually shaped her career path. We talk through her master's thesis work with the women's hockey program and how she was able to quantify the effects of training load on recovery and sleep. Hearing her perspective reminded me of how critical it is to bridge research with real-life application so that the numbers we collect can actually help athletes perform and recover better. We also explore the role of culture and buy-in, which is something Emaly highlights through her experience working with championship-level teams. It is one thing for athletes to comply with wearing devices, but another when they compete with one another to improve their numbers because they understand what the data means. This first part of the episode really sets the stage for how sport science is more than just tracking numbers. It is about creating a culture where athletes are curious, engaged, and invested in their own performance. Shoutout to Sorinex and EliteForm for making these episodes possible!

In the second part of our conversation, we talk about what Krishna is doing now and the lasting impact she is making. After an impressive career as a thrower and coach, she found women's tackle football and made her way to the U.S. national team. She represented our country on the biggest stage, won a gold medal at the World Championships, and then shifted into leadership as the general manager of the Kansas City Glory. Krishna explains the unique challenges of building women's sports, from managing operations to supporting athletes, and how her role is about more than wins and losses. It is about creating opportunities and a foundation for future generations. What inspires me most is how she continues to use her voice and experience to help others. Through public speaking, youth coaching, and mentoring, Krishna is showing athletes and professionals the importance of setting goals, living by your values, and approaching challenges with a growth mindset. Her story proves that the lessons you learn in sport prepare you for every arena in life. This part of the conversation is about leadership, vision, and the responsibility we all have to invest in the people coming after us.

In this first part of my conversation with Krishna Lee, I reflect on what it means to see one of my former athletes grow, evolve, and accomplish so much. Krishna shares her journey from growing up in Kansas City, where sports were woven into her family life, to becoming a multi-time All American and Big 12 champion at Mizzou. She talks about the impact of her coaches, especially how they invested in her as a person, not just as an athlete. That influence shaped her into someone who competed at the highest levels, earned a spot in the Mizzou Hall of Fame, and even reached the Olympic Trials. We also dive into the challenges that come when competition ends and identity shifts. Krishna speaks honestly about those moments of transition and how coaching gave her a new way to stay connected to the game. Whether she was working with young athletes in karate and swimming or returning to Mizzou to coach throwers, she found purpose in helping others succeed. Her move into athletic administration and Parks and Recreation continued that mission, showing her commitment to building environments where athletes could grow without burning out. This part of the conversation highlights the resilience it takes to keep moving forward when one chapter closes and another begins.

In Part 2 of our Roundtable chat with Rett Larson, we shift the focus to what happens once that trust is built. Rett breaks down how he uses warm-ups as more than just a physical prep; they're also a way to engage athletes mentally, meet the needs of coaches and support staff, and create a culture of energy and buy-in. He talks about designing sessions that athletes actually enjoy, and how that level of enthusiasm is just as important as the training itself. We also explore his use of light resistance tools like aqua bags and weight vests to keep movements sport-specific and fast, without compromising intent. The second half of this episode also dives into how Rett gamifies workouts to boost motivation and build team connection. From pairing athletes in unexpected ways to building in mini competitions that get people fired up, he shows how strategy and fun can coexist in elite training environments. We wrap up with a great conversation around warm-up design, resisted and assisted movements, and how small incremental changes can lead to major performance gains. Rett's perspective is a masterclass in creativity, culture, and coaching that's worth hearing all the way through.

In Part 1 of our conversation with Rett Larson, we dive into the global perspective he brings to the strength and conditioning world. Rett has worked with elite athletes across multiple continents, including his role with the Chinese women's national volleyball team—a team with a cultural presence and history that goes far beyond the sport itself. He talks about the challenge and importance of not overhauling what already works, and instead finding ways to integrate new ideas without disrupting a winning formula. From cultural expectations to coaching philosophy, Rett explains how humility and adaptability are key when stepping into an unfamiliar system. We also get into the differences between coaching in the United States and abroad, including how American "rah rah" intensity is sometimes seen as over the top. Rett shares how his own beliefs around training were challenged by working with athletes and coaches who didn't necessarily agree with the so-called sacred cows of Western programming. There's plenty of insight here for anyone who wants to expand their coaching lens and learn how to gain trust in new environments. Whether you're just starting out or have been coaching for years, this part of the conversation lays a strong foundation for what's coming in Part 2.  

In part two of our Research 2 Reps Roundtable with Dr. Curt Tomasevicz, we dive deeper into the science behind bobsled training, mechanics, and athlete development. We talk about how video analysis and biomechanics shape the training of elite bobsledders, from sprint mechanics to start technique. Curt shares how his engineering background uniquely informs his work with sled design and athlete feedback, making the sport a blend of science, engineering, and raw athleticism. We also explore talent identification—how the team scouts athletes through combines (both virtual and in-person) and what physical and mental traits they look for in new recruits. Curt breaks down the different roles in the sled, the importance of reaction time, and why pilots are often former push athletes. We wrap up with a discussion on athlete longevity, common injuries, and some great book recommendations that every coach and athlete can learn from. This episode is packed with insights for anyone passionate about strength and conditioning, sports science, or building elite athletic performance from the ground up. Big thanks to podcast sponsors, Sorinex and EliteForm, for making these episodes possible.

In this episode of the Research 2 Reps Roundtable, I sit down with my co-hosts Ted and Ernie to welcome Dr. Curt Tomasevicz—Olympic gold and silver medalist, high-performance director, and assistant professor. Curt takes us on his journey from growing up in a small Nebraska town to competing in three Olympic Games and now balancing multiple roles in sports performance and academia. He shares what it takes to identify, train, and develop bobsled athletes who can handle the unique demands of the sport. We dive into what makes the perfect bobsledder, from their blue-collar work ethic to their mental toughness and ability to thrive under pressure. Curt unpacks how he looks for talent from diverse sports backgrounds, and how athletes who just missed their dream in one sport might find new opportunities in another. If you're a strength coach, sports scientist, or simply curious about elite athlete development, you won't want to miss this episode. Big thanks to podcast sponsors, Sorinex and EliteForm, for making these episodes possible.

In Part 2 of this powerful conversation, Britt Achterhoff goes even deeper into the life experiences that shaped her personal and professional path. She opens up about one of the most difficult periods of her life—tearing her ACL while her father was terminally ill and struggling academically due to undiagnosed ADHD. Through all of this, one person stood solid in her corner: her strength coach, Dennis "D Love" Love. Britt credits him with not only giving her a place to belong, but also with showing her what leadership, mentorship, and care truly look like. That pivotal support became the root of her passion for the industry and her mission to make an impact beyond equipment sales. Britt also reflects on how her experiences—from student leadership to moments of being the only woman in high-level performance meetings—have uniquely positioned her to lead from a place of empathy and real-world perspective. She discusses her "existential career crisis" after becoming a mom of two, and how that inspired her to create professional development conversations for coaches that center on real life—not just sets and reps. This episode is a raw reminder that what happens off the field or outside the weight room often shapes us the most, and Britt's story is a powerful call to action for supporting the whole person—not just the professional title. Big thanks to podcast sponsors, Sorinex and EliteForm, for making these episodes possible.

In this episode of Beyond Sets & Reps, Britt Achterhoff shares her powerful and personal journey from collegiate athlete to respected team member at Sorinex. A former Clemson soccer player, Britt reflects on how her love for the weight room and a chance encounter during a facility renovation launched her into the strength and conditioning industry—though not in the traditional coaching sense. Instead, she carved out her path on the vendor side, traveling across the Southeast, immersing herself in the strength community, and earning respect through grit, relationships, and a deep passion for the field. Her story is one of relentless work ethic, identity exploration, and embracing the messy parts of career growth, especially as a young woman in a male-dominated space. Britt also opens up about how motherhood reshaped her perspective on work, life, and purpose. As her role evolved from equipment sales to business development, she found herself craving more meaningful impact—and more balance. Her vulnerability in discussing postpartum challenges, identity shifts, and the importance of supportive workplace culture offers valuable insight for anyone navigating career transitions or family life. Britt's passion for creating professional development opportunities in the industry is evident, and this conversation is a testament to the power of showing up authentically, even when the path forward isn't crystal clear. Big thanks to podcast sponsors, Sorinex and EliteForm, for making these episodes possible.

In part 2 of the Research 2 Reps Roundtable episode, Felix Proessl continues to share his wealth of experience in sports science, particularly in how teams navigate the unique challenges of international travel and cultural adaptation. The discussion touches on the complexities of preparing athletes for games abroad, including the physiological and behavioral adjustments required when traveling to different time zones, altitudes, and climates. Felix provides insight into how professional sports teams balance performance optimization with the realities of international commitments, such as media obligations, while also addressing concerns around food safety and player health when abroad. The conversation also shifts to the growing role of student involvement in sports science, with Felix reflecting on his time at the University of Pittsburgh, where he helped bridge the gap between academia and athletics. He emphasizes the importance of fostering curiosity among students and integrating them organically into sports teams, where they can apply their research skills to real-world problems. Additionally, Felix shares his experiences with central fatigue research, discussing how wearable tech and data analysis are helping to manage fatigue and improve athlete performance. The episode concludes with a recommendation for a thought-provoking read, Statistical Rethinking, which challenges traditional views of hypothesis testing and encourages a more nuanced approach to decision-making in sports science. A big thanks to show sponsors, Sorinex and EliteForm, for making these episodes possible.

In this episode of the Research 2 Reps Roundtable, hosts Dr. Pat Ivy, Dr. Ted, and Dr. Ernie Reimer dive deep into the world of sports science with special guest Felix Proessl, Senior Director of Sport and Data Science for the Colorado Rapids. Felix shares his journey from collegiate soccer player in Germany to leading sport science initiatives in Major League Soccer, blending his academic background with real-world applications. The conversation explores the balance between acute needs and long-term performance goals, as Felix reflects on how his research and data-driven decisions are shaping the training and recovery strategies for professional athletes. The roundtable also tackles the complex challenges of altitude, travel logistics, and recovery in the MLS. Felix discusses the impact of travel on performance, particularly when teams face the daunting task of adjusting to different time zones and environmental factors. The group also delves into the intersection of science and superstition, with Felix explaining how they navigate players' personal routines and beliefs while maintaining a data-informed approach. This episode offers a fascinating look at the evolving role of sports science in professional soccer, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, flexibility, and thoughtful decision-making in optimizing athlete performance. A big thanks to show sponsors, Sorinex and EliteForm, for making these episodes possible.

In part two of my conversation with Jim Beebe, we dive deeper into the mindset and habits that shape successful athletes, parents, and teams. Jim shares powerful insights on the importance of strength training for young athletes, emphasizing that lifting can be a game-changer in preventing injuries and creating a competitive advantage. He also discusses the critical role of adversity in personal growth, urging parents and coaches to allow young athletes to struggle, fail, and learn resilience rather than shielding them from challenges. Jim explains how structured discipline, accountability, and hard work—not just talent—are the true separators at the highest levels of competition. We also explore team dynamics, leadership, and the evolving standards in elite-level performance. Jim highlights the necessity of fostering team accountability, helping athletes develop strong core values, and ensuring that leadership comes from within the team. The discussion extends to the culture of top college football programs, including behind-the-scenes insights from Ohio State and Michigan, where attention to detail, relentless improvement, and data-driven training set championship-caliber teams apart. This episode is packed with valuable lessons for athletes, parents, and coaches looking to build a culture of excellence both on and off the field. A big thanks to show sponsors, Sorinex and EliteForm, for making these episodes possible.

In Part 1 of this Beyond Sets & Reps episode, I sit down with Jim Beebe, a coach, gym owner, and author whose journey through strength training, business, and personal transformation is nothing short of inspiring. Jim shares how his early experiences shaped his love for athletics, despite facing challenges growing up. He details the pivotal moment in his mid-30s when he realized he wasn't setting the right example for his children, leading him to completely transform his health and career. What started with P90X in his living room turned into an internship at a CrossFit gym, eventually leading him to open his own training facility. Jim dives into the sacrifices he made, including financial struggles and long hours, to build his gym from the ground up. His commitment to learning, coaching, and helping others—especially young athletes and individuals facing adversity—has defined his purpose and mission. Jim also discusses his evolution as a coach, expanding beyond his gym to impact more people through his book, Athlete Built: The Blueprint to Build Champion Athletes, and his new digital course. He shares how his philosophy is rooted in structured habits, mindset, and training principles that apply to both sports and life. We talk about the importance of setting goals, measuring progress, and developing a blueprint for success, whether you're an aspiring athlete or simply trying to improve yourself. His journey is a testament to perseverance, the power of mentorship, and the willingness to take risks in pursuit of something greater. Tune in to hear Jim's story of reinvention, hard work, and the strategies he's developed to help athletes and everyday people reach their full potential. A big thanks to show sponsors, Sorinex and EliteForm, for making these episodes possible.

In the second half of this episode of the Research to Reps Roundtable, the conversation continues with Cam Josse diving deeper into the nuances of sports science and coaching communication. The discussion focuses on the importance of clear, structured protocols for managing training loads and player readiness. Cam shares insights into how Auburn's staff utilizes data without overwhelming coaches or athletes, ensuring that interventions are meaningful and effective. The group discusses how mental health has emerged as a critical area in athlete development, often taking precedence over traditional performance metrics. Cam emphasizes that sports scientists need to shift their focus beyond just collecting and analyzing force plate data; they must also address pressing issues like athlete well-being, team dynamics, and the challenges of integrating transfer athletes into established programs. The conversation then explores the evolving landscape of college football, particularly with the growing influence of NIL deals and the professionalization of the sport. Cam and the hosts discuss how financial incentives are changing team dynamics, with college athletes now able to see their market value and, in some cases, negotiate their roles. They also touch on the shifting priorities in player development, noting that long-term training approaches are being replaced by a more immediate, results-driven model. The episode closes with a reflection on the challenges of balancing player performance, team needs, and individual goals in an ever-changing collegiate landscape. Cam recommends several books on leadership and negotiation, reinforcing the importance of adaptability and communication in both coaching and athlete development. Shout out to our podcast sponsors, Sorinex and EliteForm, for making these episodes possible!

In this episode of the Research to Reps Roundtable, Dr. Pat Ivey, Dr. Ernie Rimer, and Dr. Ted Lambrinides sit down with Cam Josse, currently at Auburn, to discuss his experiences in strength and conditioning, particularly in college football. Cam shares insights into the challenges of ending a season without a bowl game, emphasizing the importance of reflection, maintaining a forward-thinking approach, and controlling what can be controlled. He discusses how his role, though not as a director, allows him to engage deeply in evaluating Auburn's 2024 season and strategizing for 2025. The conversation highlights the emotional aspect of missing a bowl game but stresses the necessity of focusing on progress rather than dwelling on setbacks. The discussion then shifts to force-velocity profiling and its application in training athletes for optimal performance. Cam explains how different athletes exhibit varying force and velocity traits, influencing their sprinting and overall performance. He and the hosts explore how training should be individualized based on an athlete's position, body composition, and specific needs rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach. They also touch on the complexity of sports science, emphasizing the need for practical decision-making and clear communication between strength coaches and head coaches. The importance of balancing physical training with mental and tactical aspects of the game is a recurring theme, with the group highlighting the risks of over-intervening and how strategic planning plays a key role in maximizing athlete development. Shout out to our podcast sponsors, Sorinex and EliteForm, for making these episodes possible!

In part two of our conversation, Dave Christensen opened up about his transition into retirement and his latest venture: the "Your Fourth Down" platform. He explained the ADAPT framework—Attitude, Discipline, Attention to Detail, Perseverance, and Touchdown—and how these principles guide success in sports and life. Hearing his personal stories of perseverance, from his humble beginnings to reaching professional achievements, was incredibly motivating.  We also discussed the evolving landscape of college sports, from NIL deals to transfer rules, and how it's changing the game. Dave's dedication to sharing his story and inspiring others through speaking and consulting reminds me why I love what I do—helping others reach their full potential, both on and off the field. Big thanks to our podcast sponsors, Sorinex and EliteForm, for making these episodes possible!

On this episode, I had the pleasure of catching up with Dave Christensen, a coach whose journey and impact on the game of football have been truly inspiring. We talked about the power of mentorship and how key figures like Coach Don James taught us life and leadership principles that extend far beyond the field. Dave reflected on the importance of structure, discipline, and pushing players out of their comfort zones to help them grow.  He also shared some of the major setbacks and sacrifices he's faced in his career, including the bold decision to adopt a spread offense—a move that completely transformed his team's trajectory. These pivotal moments led to some unforgettable wins and personal milestones in his coaching career. Big thanks to our podcast sponsors, Sorinex and EliteForm, for making these episodes possible!

In part 2 of the Research 2 Reps Roundtable, my co-hosts Dr. Ernie Rimer, Dr. Ted Lambrinides, and I continue our engaging discussion with Dr. Tim Suchomel, diving deeper into the essentials of long-term athlete development (LTAD). Dr. Suchomel emphasizes the importance of starting athletes with fundamental movement patterns, such as squats and hip hinges, to establish a strong foundation before progressing to advanced techniques like Olympic lifts. He highlights how focusing on movement quality at an early age helps prevent poor habits in college athletes and sets them up for success. We also explore practical ways to monitor and track athlete progress in settings with limited resources, underscoring that effective monitoring doesn't require expensive tools but rather consistent observation and creativity. The conversation touches on key topics in youth sports, including the benefits of multi-sport participation versus early specialization. Dr. Rimer shares his perspective as a youth baseball coach, advocating for a balanced approach that builds a well-rounded athletic profile and prevents burnout and overuse injuries. We examine how motivation and fun should remain central to youth sports, while also fostering skill development and parental engagement. From debates over training priorities—such as hip speed versus bar speed—to the evolving landscape of strength and conditioning, this episode stresses the need for adaptable, research-backed methods. We conclude by encouraging coaches to prioritize needs analysis, embrace foundational knowledge, and stay open to new techniques that ensure holistic athlete development. Shout out to our podcast sponsors, Sorinex and EliteForm, for making these episodes possible!