KETTLEBELLS & COCKTAILS

CrossFit Community Insights: Kettlebells, Business, and Culture Shifts In this episode of 'Kettlebells and Cocktails', John and guests Keith Knapp & Dale King dive into various topics about the CrossFit community, affiliate ownership, and the shifting culture within CrossFit HQ. They discuss the challenges and triumphs of running CrossFit affiliates, including establishing gym etiquette, marketing strategies for new affiliates, and the importance of community and cleanliness in the gym environment. The conversation also touches on recent changes within CrossFit HQ's branding and media strategy, the significance of a movement versus a brand, and personal anecdotes from the hosts and guests on their experiences within the CrossFit community. Additionally, they cover the potential impacts of changes at CrossFit HQ on affiliate owners and the broader community. The episode also includes reflections on personal journeys, the value of CrossFit's methodology, and the importance of cultivating a proud and inclusive community around fitness.

In this episode of 'Kettlebells and Cocktails', host John is joined by special guest Jay DeCoons the Vice President of Global Affiliates at CrossFit. They discuss Jay's initial experiences with CrossFit and his first Open competition, highlighting the importance of scaling workouts and the sense of community within CrossFit affiliates. They delve into Jay's athletic background, which includes team sports, cycling, and triathlons, and how CrossFit has uniquely impacted his fitness journey. The conversation shifts to Jay's role at CrossFit, focusing on affiliate support and growth, the power of the CrossFit brand, and the goal of expanding the CrossFit community. Jay shares insights into the challenges and strategies for sustaining successful affiliates, emphasizing the brand's value and the ongoing efforts to enhance affiliate resources and support systems. They also discuss the future of CrossFit, targeting 30 million participants worldwide, and the vital role affiliates play in achieving this goal. Jay reflects on his family's perception of his CrossFit involvement, underlining the impact of fitness on his children's lives.

In this episode of 'Kettlebells and Cocktails', hosts John and Nikki delve into the innovative efforts in Ireland to integrate CrossFit into the healthcare system. Joined by guests Darina Dunne and Karl Dunne (no relation), they explore the inception and objectives of incorporating CrossFit programming as part of preventative healthcare in Ireland. They discuss the journey of advocating for government support and how CrossFit's community-driven model can serve as a powerful tool in improving the nation's health. The conversation also touches on the wider implications of gyms serving as modern community centers and CrossFit's role in challenging and shifting societal norms around fitness and social interaction.

In this episode we have special guest Jen Green owner of CrossFit Greer and Senior Manager of U.S. Affiliate Operations at CrossFit HQ, discuss the pivotal role of affiliates in the CrossFit community. Jen elaborates on the value brought by affiliate reps through tools, resources, and a more personalized touch, assisting affiliates in becoming successful. We also touch upon CrossFit's ambitious marketing strategies aimed at advertising affiliates and attracting new members. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize the importance of understanding and nurturing the community ties within CrossFit, to overcome challenges and continuously cultivate fitness.

John and Niki welcome special guest Dale King, an OG in the CrossFit community. They discuss the changing landscape of CrossFit, from its handling under private equity to the challenges of affiliate ownership. Dale provides his thoughts on the future and expresses concerns over preserving the original ethos of CrossFit amidst changes. The conversation also explores customer service issues and the need for marketing initiatives to bolster affiliate relations. Jokes about Reddit trolls, questionable gym practices, and personal anecdotes about CrossFit experiences offer a lively touch to these discussions on important issues.

In this open and in-depth conversation with CrossFit CEO, Don Faul, hosts John and Niki explore a range of important discussions related to the future of CrossFit. Don dives into the relationship and influence of private equity with CrossFit, a pivot towards a greater focus on health, and the key role of affiliates in the expansion of the CrossFit community. He also speaks on the focus and value of the brand, aspirations around the brand outreach, and his commitment to creating a strong internal culture within CrossFit. The episode provides valuable insights about the strategic changes and initiatives that are underway at CrossFit and its future direction. To find an affiliate and try CrossFit > https://www.crossfit.com/

In this episode, host John and Niki chat with one of their favorite guests Rob Kearney about his experiences with running a new CrossFit gym, CrossFit Iron Legacy. They discuss building a community, balancing coaching elite athletes with newcomers, and the approach towards CrossFit Open. Rob also shares his 'hot girl summer body' diet and his passion for coaching high-level athletes while maintaining a nurturing and diverse community environment. They also touch on topics like the importance of a diverse coaching staff and nutrition within the CrossFit scene. https://crossfitironlegacy.com https://hwpotraining.com/programs/hwpo-strong 00:01 Introduction and Catching Up 00:32 The Life of an Affiliate Owner 00:54 Building a Community: Hiring a New Coach 01:33 The Power of CrossFit Community 04:30 The Challenges of Running a Gym 05:12 Success Stories and Future Goals 07:27 Creating a Positive Gym Culture 11:43 Dealing with Disruptions in the Gym 20:44 Preparing for the CrossFit Open 34:30 Balancing Community and Competition 37:02 Balancing Elite Athlete Coaching with Community Building 37:54 Challenges of Coaching Newbies and the Importance of Diverse Coaching Styles 38:59 Building a Diverse Coaching Team for a Better Gym Experience 40:40 The Importance of Coaches Development and Skillset Sundays 41:40 Leveraging Coaches' Passions for a Diverse Gym Experience 43:17 The Value of Diversity in Coaching Styles 45:24 The Journey to a Beach Body Diet 46:03 The Struggles and Rewards of a Strict Diet 50:06 The Role of Nutrition in CrossFit 01:03:18 The Excitement of the Upcoming CrossFit Games

Get ready for a power-packed "2 for 1" special on the latest episode of Kettlebells and Cocktails! This week, we bring you an exclusive live-from-Miami interview with none other than CrossFit Games Athlete Fee Saghafi. Join us as Fee spills the beans on all the exciting changes in her life since making the bold move from Ohio to the sunny vibes of Florida. Learn about her journey, challenges, and triumphs as she delves into her experience competing at the renowned Wodapalooza. But that's not all – after this incredible interview, your hosts John and Niki gather to share their own insights and discuss the electric atmosphere at Wodapalooza. From thrilling competitions to the vibrant community feedback, they dissect it all. Whether you're a seasoned CrossFit enthusiast or just diving into the fitness scene, this episode is your backstage pass to the heart of the action. Tune in, grab your kettlebells and cocktails, and join us for an episode filled with fitness inspiration, personal stories, and the unmatched spirit of the CrossFit community. It's time to lift, laugh, and learn with Kettlebells and Cocktails!

In this episode, we sit down with Frank Foehrenback from the CF Affiliate Collective. Frank and his group are on a mission to reshape the future of CrossFit by organizing affiliates with the goal of purchasing CrossFit LLC from its current Private Equity Owners, Berkshire Partners. Join us as we dive into a spirited discussion about the direction they envision for the company under new affiliate ownership. In this engaging conversation, Frank shares his insights on why they believe the current leadership is steering CrossFit in the wrong direction and how affiliate ownership could be the game-changer. We explore the challenges, opportunities, and the strategic vision that Frank and his collective bring to the table. Get ready for a thought-provoking debate on the odds of this bold move and the merits of their revolutionary idea. Whether you're a CrossFit enthusiast, business aficionado, or just love a good debate, this episode of "Kettlebells & Cocktails" promises to leave you inspired and contemplating the exciting potential future of CrossFit. Tune in for a fascinating exploration of fitness, business, and the power of community on this episode of your favorite podcast! https://cfaffiliatecollective.org/ https://www.instagram.com/cfaffiliatecollective/ In this episode we also reference a discussion with CrossFit CEO Don Faul on @CoffeePodsAndWods you can find the episode here: https://www.youtube.com/live/nbAtlAmZcV0?si=aHWqNexs9Kq-fxJT

Get ready for another episode of "The Weekly Buzz," where Niki from the "Kettlebells & Cocktails" Podcast and Joe, the astute managing director of "The Morning Chalkup" newsletter, unravel the latest tales from the vibrant world of CrossFit. In this week's discussion: Wodapalooza Miami Unveiled: Brace yourself for the thrilling insights into Wodapalooza, kicking off in Miami! Niki and Joe dive deep into the competition, showcasing the fervor, standout performances, and everything that makes Wodapalooza a powerhouse event in the CrossFit calendar. CrossFit Games' New Apparel Sponsor – GoRuck: Explore the breaking news surrounding the announcement of GoRuck as the new apparel sponsor for the CrossFit Games. Our hosts share their insights and what this partnership means for the future of CrossFit apparel and the Games. Tune in for an engaging blend of event previews, industry revelations, and in-depth discussions. Don't miss "The Weekly Buzz" — your go-to podcast for staying at the forefront of all things CrossFit!

In this episode, we explore the intricacies of CrossFit's unique ecosystem through its affiliate model. Join us as we unravel how each gym develops its distinct personality, fostering a tapestry of advantages and drawbacks. We dissect the macro and micro communities thriving within these boxes, highlighting the significance of adept owners in cultivating lasting, vibrant communities that enhance member experiences and sustain business growth. Our special guest this week is Ben Dziwulski, the visionary behind WODprep. With over a decade of immersion in the CrossFit realm, Ben's expertise enriches our discussion, shedding light on how WODprep empowers everyday CrossFitters to excel across all facets of fitness through tailored coaching and comprehensive courses. Tune in as we uncover the nuances of CrossFit's affiliate model and explore how passionate owners like Ben Dziwulski are instrumental in sculpting communities that not only thrive but also elevate the fitness journey for all participants.

Welcome to another exciting episode of "The Weekly Buzz"! Join hosts Joe and Niki as they delve into the electrifying world of CrossFit in this jam-packed episode. Get ready to explore the hype surrounding the upcoming CrossFit competition, Wodapalooza, set against the vibrant backdrop of Miami. Joe and Niki also tackle the controversy swirling around the payouts for the Masters competition, "Legends Championship," sparking debates and discussions within the CrossFit community. Whether you're a CrossFit enthusiast, a competition junkie, or simply intrigued by the ins and outs of the fitness world, this episode is packed with insights, controversies, and the latest buzz in the CrossFit universe. Join us for an engaging discussion on "The Weekly Buzz"! https://morningchalkup.com

In this episode, we discuss the evolution of CrossFit, exploring the changes and differences since it's inception with founder Greg Glassman and its transition to current ownership under Private Equity. Join us as we dissect the nuances and intricacies associated with this shift, unraveling the fears and uncertainties that accompany such a transformation. Our guest is Dr. Kelly Starrett, an authority in movement and fitness, renowned New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of "The Supple Leopard," "Born to Run," and "Deskbound," graces us with his insights. As the co-founder of San Francisco CrossFit, Kelly brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the discussion. Together, we navigate the landscape of CrossFit's journey, examining the impact of private equity ownership and delving into the implications it holds for the CrossFit community, ethos, and future trajectory. From its roots in grassroots fitness to the complex dynamics of corporate involvement, join us for a thought-provoking conversation that sheds light on the ever-evolving world of CrossFit. Don't miss this enlightening dialogue as we explore the intersection of fitness, business, and community with Dr. Kelly Starrett. https://thereadystate.com

Welcome to another exciting episode of "Kettlebells and Cocktails"! Join us as we sit down with Frank and Greg, the dynamic duo behind Hero Barbell. In this captivating conversation, they unveil the trials and triumphs of being small business owners in the fitness industry. Discover how they're boldly challenging the giants of fitness equipment by crafting top-tier products at competitive prices. Frank and Greg share their inspiring journey, shedding light on the strategies, obstacles, and innovations that drive Hero Barbell's mission to revolutionize the fitness equipment landscape. Tune in for an insider's perspective on navigating the competitive fitness market while maintaining a commitment to quality and affordability. https://herobarbell.com

Join us in this episode as we chat with the incredible Justine Luchini, the founder of Thirdzy—an all-natural sleep supplement. Justine brings her expertise to the table as we dive into the fascinating realm of fitness recovery. We explore how pregnancy has shaped and altered her training and recovery routines, offering unique insights into adapting fitness practices during this transformative phase of life. Get ready for an engaging conversation that delves into the nuances of training, recovery, and the incredible journey of adapting fitness during pregnancy with the innovative mind behind Thirdzy. https://thirdzy.com use "WODZZZ" to save 25%

In this special edition, we sit down with Dale King, the inspiring owner of PSKC CrossFit and Doc Spartan Products. Dale joins us to delve into his recently released documentary, "Small Town Strong." This powerful film unravels the gripping narrative of Dale's community in Portsmouth, Ohio, as they confront and combat an escalating opioid crisis. Tune in as Dale shares poignant insights, stories of resilience, and the impactful journey behind "Small Town Strong." Get ready for an eye-opening conversation that showcases the strength of community in the face of adversity.

This week, John & Niki unpack the latest buzz in the CrossFit world, diving into the recently unveiled Semifinals locations for the CrossFit Games. Delving deeper, they analyze the insights gleaned from the Affiliate Town Hall led by Don Faul and senior leadership, shedding light on what transpired and offering opinion on the details. Intriguingly, a mysterious entity, "The CF Affiliate Collective," surfaces, seemingly positioned to challenge CrossFit's trajectory. Speculation arises regarding their intentions, sparking conversations about a potential affiliation exodus and brand allegiance shifts. However, amidst these industry updates, John and Niki pivot to share heartwarming anecdotes, inviting listeners into their personal lives. Discover their cherished holiday traditions, humorous anecdotes, and a glimpse into how they celebrate this magical season. Tune in for a dynamic episode brimming with CrossFit revelations, intriguing industry dynamics, and a cozy chat about holiday cheer.

In this exciting episode of "Kettlebells & Cocktails," we're thrilled to host a special guest, Scott Britton, the passionate individual behind Battle Cancer. Join us as we dive into Scott's incredible journey, from his recent move from the UK to vibrant Miami. He shares the behind-the-scenes insights of his transition and the unique experiences he's encountered along the way. Scott also takes us on an exhilarating preview of what Battle Cancer has in store for the upcoming Wodapalooza event in January. Discover the heartwarming mission and initiatives that Battle Cancer plans to unveil during this event. Notably, Scott reveals captivating details about the highly anticipated 20K challenge and offers an exclusive guide on how listeners can sign up and get involved. Tune in to this episode for an inspiring conversation filled with fitness insights, community impact, and a sneak peek into the incredible work that Battle Cancer is set to accomplish at Wodapalooza. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast, a supporter of charitable causes, or simply seeking motivation, this episode is a must-listen! Get ready to be motivated, uplifted, and informed as Scott Britton shares his journey and provides a compelling look at Battle Cancer's meaningful efforts in the fitness community!

Welcome to a special collaborative episode of "The Weekly Buzz," a fusion of insights from "The Morning Chalkup" newsletter and the "Kettlebells & Cocktails" podcast! Join hosts Joe and Niki as they dive deep into the latest happenings within the vibrant CrossFit community. In this episode, we've got an exciting lineup of stories that you won't want to miss. Get the scoop on the thrilling action from the Down Under Championship and the incredible feats achieved at the Adaptive athlete competition, WheelWOD. CrossFit affiliates, listen up! There's breaking news – for the first time in 11 years, CrossFit is raising affiliate fees. Joe and Niki break down what this means for the community and discuss its potential impacts. Additionally, we delve into the results of a survey that gauges CrossFit's approval rating, providing insights into how the community perceives the sport and its future. Join us for a lively discussion filled with updates, analysis, and insights into the pulse of the CrossFit world. Be sure to hit that subscribe button, like, and turn on notifications to stay tuned to "The Weekly Buzz" for your regular dose of all things CrossFit!

In this compelling episode, we sit down with the remarkable Lauren Taylor, a former elite athlete turned Adaptive CrossFit Games competitor. Lauren's journey from collegiate sports to conquering obstacle course racing took a fateful turn in 2020 when a collision with a Mack truck left her battling debilitating challenges—headaches, dizziness, vertigo, and neck pain. Diagnosed with cervical and lumbar radiculopathy, traumatic brain injury, and acquired ataxia, Lauren's world shifted. But amidst adversity, she discovered the transformative power of CrossFit. Tune in as Lauren shares her inspirational story of resilience, recounting how she harnessed CrossFit's methodology to adapt her training and redefine her fitness journey. Learn how determination, perseverance, and CrossFit paved the way for Lauren's triumphant qualification for the 2022 CrossFit Games, showcasing an unwavering spirit that proves no obstacle is insurmountable. Join us for an uplifting conversation as Lauren Taylor demonstrates the incredible strength found in the human spirit and the transformative impact of CrossFit on her journey to greatness. Cheers to strength, resilience, and the power of the human will!