Heavy Or Not - The O.G. Swim Guide

This episode of Heavy Or Not, The OG Swim Guide, jumps into a podcast from friend and we replay a recent releaseof Navigating Neva.  We had a sit down interview with Nicole and Wes -- and myself, Mark Rauterkus. The coach, podcaster, and ISCA contributor comes gushing about and we explore how swimming, water polo, and tech are reshaping aquatics today. We cover: How Mark launched the “Heavy Or Not” podcast and his vision for expanding its reach. Using water polo to keep swimmers engaged and create a pipeline for lifelong aquatic participation. Mark’s diverse coaching background—from high‑school and college pools to community programs and the Pittsburgh Public Schools “Summer Dreamers.” The role of the International Swim Coaches Association (ISCA) in hosting meets, providing education, and upcoming AI‑driven tools. Practical AI & CRM solutions that streamline pool operations, sponsor outreach, and coach‑parent communications.

It is a great time to be alive and there are some cliff hangers within! David, a devoted athlete turned Doctor and researcher is deploying AI in off-brand discoveries. This is a peek at a MUST HEAR podcast from another source, Radiolab. Experience a flashback to tracks from a campaign CD with a fall baseball story from Meg Barnhouse. It is chilly and dark under the lights and parents are watching.   In the final segment, new USA Swimming CEO issued his first statement that lost me on the "one of" part. May the wind be at his back. Show pointer: https://radiolab.org/podcast/the-medical-matchmaking-machine A quarterback’s love of football turned into a medical mission after his mom’s brain cancer diagnosis, and now AI is helping him chase new treatments. Listen to the full conversation for the highs, the lows, and the tech driving the fight.  David’s roller‑coaster journey from college quarterback to aspiring oncologist. The impact of his mother’s grade‑4 glioblastoma and the promise he made to her. How athletic discipline translates into medical study and research. AI‑powered drug repurposing and off‑label uses discussed in the Radiolab interview. Meg Barnhouse story, Diamonds, was included in a past campaign CD when standing for public office. She gives a parent's perspective on fall baseball. A quick look at USA Swimming’s new CEO, AI‑generated remarks, and the broader conversation about sports, health, and technology.  He lost me at "one of" -- as it is THE best and ONLY sport!  Pretty transparent isn't "ALWAYS Transparent." Rather than quck and fast meetings, try long, slow and hard meetings that happen soon. Grassroots is good!  May the wind be at his back, and the BS be already sucked into the pool's filters.  

From Broken Networks to Unified Protection: Reforming Canada’s Sport Landscape for All Participants In this episode of Heavy or Not – Season 2 - #51 we report on Canada’s fragmented sports system, its chronic funding gaps, and why safe sport is now the top priority. We also examine the current complaint mechanisms and explore concrete proposals for a unified, safer future. How Canada’s multi‑layered sport governance (federal, provincial, NSOs, CSOs) creates funding and safety challenges. The link between chronic under‑funding, the “Own the Podium” model, and rising abuse scandals. Existing safe‑sport frameworks (SDRCC, OSIC, CCES) and critical gaps such as legal aid and mental‑health support. Prevention tools in play: the Rule of Two, background screening, and education/training programs. Proposed reforms: a centralized sport entity, stronger governance code, and three options for a national safe‑sport complaint authority. Canada issued a report and is working to unpack problems and find more comprehensive solutions to benefit all citizens.

Season 1 of Heavy Or Not proves that swimming isn’t just about laps; it’s a dynamic ecosystem where mindset, technology, community and history intertwine. By applying these 50 lessons / episodes / jump-cuts about training the brain, fine‑tuning the kick, welcoming AI, building inclusive programs, and defending our pools, you’ll elevate not only your athletes’ performance but also the entire swimming culture around you. So the next time you’re planning a practice, remember: every stroke, every supplement, and every conversation can be a step toward a stronger, smarter, and more resilient swim community. Listen and react.

Reforming USA Swimming: A Blueprint for Transparency, Athlete Services, and Grassroots Growth In episode #49 of Heavy Or Not, The OG Swim Guide, we amplify and break down the growing, explosive, criticism of USA Swimming from Michael Phelps and SwimSwam publisher,  Mel Stewart. They, among many others, are exposing a leadership crisis that threatens the sport’s future. Phelps points to the steep drop in U.S. Olympic medal share (57% → 44%) and blames weak board governance. He presents a coalition‑backed, three‑step reform plan: independent board review, athlete‑first services, and grassroots growth. Stewart labels the “Colorado Springs bubble,” highlighting excessive executive pay, stagnant athlete stipends, and a complacent financial safety net. The board’s reaction—including a CEO bonus after a failed software rollout and registration decline—is dissected as misdirection and avoidance. Concrete solutions are proposed: cap top‑executive salaries, tie bonuses to clear KPIs that also raise coach and athlete compensation, and prioritize grassroots revitalization. Links SwimSwam editorial Full statement from Michael Phelps

Discover how Dr. Tom Griffiths turned an eight‑year quest into a free, lifeguard‑training app that simulates real drowning scenarios. Learn why it’s a game‑changer for both everyday swimmers and aquatic facilities. In this jump-cut of Heavy Or Not, #48, you’ll see: The eight‑year development timeline, funding, and partnership challenges. Real‑life‑based simulation scenes that train users to spot victims instantly. Free public access and instant feedback that tracks performance and improvement. A low‑cost subscription option for facilities to monitor lifeguard training data. How the app supports drowning prevention and where to download it today. Many in the USA Swimming Community are in a funk as the CEO post remains vacant and results from the 2025 World Swim Championships were less than ideal. Michael, Ryan, Rowdy and others are sounding off. This begs the question, Heavy Or Not? Jump cut #48 begins with a visit with Dr. Tom Griffiths, retired professor from Penn State University, founder of the firm, Aquatic Safety Research Group. Check out their app! Turning Drowning Prevention into a Game: Eight Scenarios Teach Quick Victim Recognition See: https://drtomslifeguardvision.com/ https://aquaticsafetygroup.com/

Episode 47 – Free: Coaching, NIL, and the Real Meaning of Growth Podcast: Heavy Or Not – The OG Swim Guide Presented by ISCA & U Can Swim In this episode, we take a wide-angle view of the word "free"—through the lens of coaching, NIL decisions, and athlete development. We begin with insights from Coach Nick Saban on recruiting and the dangers of chasing money over long-term development. Saban reminds us: when pro teams call about a player, they don’t ask how much he played as a freshman—they ask, “What kind of person is he?” Character, leadership, trustworthiness. That’s what matters most. Coaches: build value in all those areas. We also highlight NIL.LO.org—a place for coaches, athletes, and educators to explore and discuss NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness). It’s a valuable resource, and we invite you to get involved. Then we shift into the deeper meanings of “free.” Yes, the podcast is free to listen, share, and discuss. But “free” also reflects how we coach, what we teach, and how we grow. Remember freeteam.org? That was about free and open-source software—code you can read, remix, and reuse. That spirit of freedom lives on in how we train and teach. But not all “free” is helpful. At swim camps, we phased out the term “free time” because too often it led to boredom and passive downtime. We prefer structured play, learning, and meaningful recovery. The main feature of this episode is a look at How to Be Free by Shaka Senghor. Shaka is a resilience expert and bestselling author who knows what it means to overcome barriers. He brings his experience—from prison to the page—and offers lessons coaches can use with athletes. One story: a Porsche driving instructor covers the rearview mirror and says, “Look where you want to go, not at what you’re afraid of.” That simple mental shift—looking ahead, not back—is key for athletes recovering from setbacks, injuries, or failure. Don’t live in the past. Learn from it, then move forward. Another moment: Senghor recalls snorkeling in Maui, panicking from saltwater in his snorkel, then deliberately calming himself. That kind of physiological control—breathing, resetting—is critical in sport. Coaches can teach it. Make it a habit. We discuss resilience—the kind forged by adversity. Senghor shares how Derek Redmond finished an Olympic race with a torn hamstring, leaning on his father. And how Shaka, while incarcerated, transformed his physical strength from nothing to 455-pound deadlifts. All of it required mental strength first. We also explore Senghor’s self-belief formula, even if the acronym is a little rough: S.H.I.T. = Success, Hustle, Intelligence, Talent. It’s about owning your growth—celebrating small wins, learning from losses, recognizing your worth. Coaches can use this framework to help athletes build internal validation, not just chase external praise. Whether you're a coach, educator, or athlete, How to Be Free is more than a book title—it’s a coaching framework. It’s about shifting perspectives, building resilience, teaching composure, and unlocking human potential. Referenced Book: How to Be Free by Shaka Senghor ISBN: 9798893310511 | Releases September 9, 2025 More at SwimISCA.org and NIL.CLOH.org Share this episode. Subscribe. And bring your wisdom to the next conversation. A final jump-cut segment is from a swim school owner and author from Cape Town, South Africa, Kathryn Nurse of fundamentalswimming.com. She bases her swim education on teaching principles to stroke development.  Their method focuses on understanding concepts, breaking down movements, and teaching with purpose—on land and in water. They use mirrors, structure, and education techniques to develop skills from age 5 through adults. More from her in the near future.

The evolving world of sports coaching hits into AI with our latest jump cut, where technology meets tradition. Discover how AI is reshaping the landscape of swimming and athletic performance. Explore the integration of AI in sports coaching and its impact on performance. Learn about the role of AI in analyzing biomechanics and providing real-time feedback. Understand the balance between human coaching instincts and machine precision. Discover the future of coaching with AI-driven tools and their benefits. Get insights into the latest tech acquisitions in the AI search space, including Apple's rumored purchase of Perplexity AI. Subscribe and stay tuned in for more insights and updates in the world of sports and technology! Keywords: AI in sports, coaching evolution, swimming technology, performance analytics, YMCA film, Below Surface, aquatics engagement, AI-driven tools, athlete improvement, coaching precision, Apple acquisition, Perplexity AI, tech integration, swim coaching, data-driven training, sports transformation, AI search engine, big tech acquisitions, coaching adaptation, future of sports, Heavy or Not podcast, ISCA, LAP.red, swim guide, athlete protection, coaching leadership. "AI in Sports: The Game-Changer You Can't Ignore" Quote: "AI isn't just a tool; it's the silent coach that never blinks, never guesses, and always delivers precision." More at https://Go.LAP.red

Get a peek at the fascinating world of wild swimming in Scotland and explore some academic research that ponders the unique values and community connections it fosters. Discover how the Act Framework offers a fresh perspective on understanding human-nature interactions. Explore the concept of wild swimming and its cultural ecosystem services. Learn about an Open Water Group of mostly women and its role in valuing nature interactions. Discover the four personas of wild swimmers and their unique community dynamics. Understand the challenges and benefits of wild swimming for women in Scotland. Examine how current policies might unintentionally hinder the growth of wild swimming communities. "It's not just about the swim; it's about the profound connections we forge with nature and each other, all emerging from a the experience of an open-water swim in the wild."   Learn how Mick and Sue Nelson of Total Aquatic Programming manage data collection of important facts for the greater aquatic community.  https://TotalAquatic.llc This is a heavy job that is handled masterfully.  Jump to a mainstream podcast snip from Radio Lab Jim's life story took a turn when he was seven-years-old and his brother didn't come back to the surface in the Mississippi River.  See https://radiolab.org/podcast/a-flock-of-two #Keywords #Wild swimming, #Scotland, #open water, cultural ecosystem services, Facilitating Act Framework, nature connection, community, women's empowerment, social values, safety, risk, mental well-being, non-competitive, environmental respect, local knowledge, policy challenges, social media, nature interaction, place attachment, meditative calm, body positivity, inclusivity, support networks, human-nature relationships, swimming personas, empowerment, nature immersion.

A.I. is On Fire First, a bit of an A.I. success story of a company less than 3 years old, and operated by one founder and a handful of others called Base 44. The company was acquired by WIX for millions. A.I. is hot, and this is proof. Source on the Base 44 acquisition is Nomi, Nomiki Petrolla at or of The SaaS Accelerator for Women, and Instagram at nomikipetrolla. A seldom told Story of Hyperbaric Therapy: A Lifeline for Drowning Victims In this jump cut, #44, we visit an episode of the Tom Woods Show to hear from Will, a show guest there. Will shares the remarkable story of Robert, his son, a young boy who defied the odds after a near-fatal incident. Discover the treatments and advocacy efforts that have sparked a conversation about medical protocols and patient rights. The harrowing experience of Robert's drowning and the initial medical response. The role of hyperbaric therapy in Robert's recovery and its potential for treating brain injuries. Challenges faced by parents in advocating for alternative treatments in hospitals. The creation of drownedbaby.org as a resource for parents of drowned children. The broader implications of Robert's story on medical practices and right-to-try laws. A Parent's Journey to Save His Child See the podcast on YouTube of the Tom Woods episode, #2665. Tom Woods Show main page See DrownedBaby.org. Keywords Drowning, Hyperbaric Therapy, Robert's Recovery, Organ Donation, Medical Protocols, Inflammation, Brain Injury, Pediatric Care, Solo Founders, Base 44 Acquisition, Wix, Tom Woods Show, Right-to-Try Laws, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Reperfusion Injury, Neurological Storming, Alternative Medicine, Parental Advocacy, DrownedBaby.org, Medical Suppression, Early Intervention, Healthcare Challenges, Pediatric Brain Injury, Hyperbaric Chamber, Medical Innovation.

Heavy Or Not, The OG Swim Guide, #43 Lots are jamming into this jump cut, as the range of topics spans from the emotional impact of the flash flooding in Texas to the impact of nutrition on bees to the potential benefits of health activators. Explore an intersection of science, health, and personal growth. The fascinating role of diet in determining the fate of queen bees and worker bees. The serious concerns surrounding the Enhanced Games and those anti-doping regulations have teeth worth avoiding. The potential health benefits of NRF2 activators and their impact on oxidative stress. Personal stories of improved health and vitality through natural supplements. Opportunities for coaches and teachers to enhance their income through direct sales. Sequence of topics Queen Bee and Worker Bee Same DNA but different roles Role of food in determining their development Example of epigenetics Flash Flooding in Texas Impact on camps and loss of life Importance of camp experiences for personal growth and community building Expression of condolences and hope for safety Enhanced Games and Anti-Doping Concerns USA Swimming's concerns about the Enhanced Games Potential risks of participating in the Enhanced Games WADA's stance on the Enhanced Games Advice for athletes and support staff regarding media inquiries Supplements and Activation Explanation of supplements and their benefits Introduction to the concept of activation NRF2 activator and its health benefits Personal experiences and testimonials LifeVantage and Business Model Transition from traditional sales to direct sales Success of the direct sales model Public trading and recognition on NASDAQ Historical context and media coverage Personal Testimonies and Experiences Bob Kane's personal health improvements Impact of ProTandem on energy and well-being Experiences with driving and physical activities Coaching and Financial Challenges Bob Kane's background as a swimming coach and teacher Financial challenges faced by coaches and teachers Desire to help coaches and teachers achieve financial abundance Business Opportunities with LifeVantage Sharing the benefits of activation with others Tools and resources for sharing the opportunity Subscription model and retention rates Options for generating additional income Success Stories and Testimonials Examples of individuals benefiting from LifeVantage products Personal weight loss and health improvements Stories of individuals transitioning to full-time involvement Contact and Information Sharing Encouragement to reach out for more information Approach to sharing information without pressure Potential financial benefits of sharing the products Queen bee next to worker bee. Both have the same DNA. Reach out to Bob Kane, guest expert about LifeVantage Bob@Horsemanship.com 412-860-9516 https://Horsemanship.com

42 is with a call to action and some calls to meet. More from Mick & Sue. Protecting the Thames River near London A much-loved open water swimming spot near Teddington on the River Thames is at risk. Thames Water’s proposed Teddington Direct River Abstraction (TDRA) scheme plans to remove up to 75 million liters of river water daily during droughts, replacing it with treated sewage effluent pumped year-round from the Mogden Sewage Treatment Works. This spot is more than just a body of water. It’s a sanctuary for swimmers, paddlers, rowers, dogs, and entire communities. Thousands rely on it for physical health, mental wellbeing, and meaningful connection. Simon Griffiths’s call in Outdoor Swimmer made this call to stop that plan. Here’s how you can help: Deadline: August 26, 2025 ✅ Send an email to: TDRA@ipsos.com Use your own words, or adapt this message: I object to Thames Water’s TDRA scheme. Discharging treated sewage into a treasured recreational stretch of the Thames, year-round, is unacceptable. This river supports thousands of water users and wildlife. Sustainable solutions like fixing existing leakage—currently over 600 million liters per day—should come first. Please register my objection formally with the Planning Inspectorate. Let’s protect what matters. Share this episode. Take action today   Mick & Sue Nelson, Colorado Springs, CO, USA, owners of Total Aquatic Programming, https://TotalAquatic.LLC Check out the business meeting after the ASCA World Clinic and the Build-a-Pool event in early 2026 at AOAP event. From open water swimming alerts to business workshops, we've got you covered. Discover the threats facing a cherished stretch of the Thames and how you can help. Learn about the Aquatic Health Club model initiative and its impact on private and nonprofit sectors. Get insights into the upcoming coaches Aquatic Business Workshop and its benefits. Explore the importance of purpose-driven business in the aquatics industry. Find out about the All Things Aquatics event on September 20th and how it can be a fun networking event for your aquatic career. The series with Mick & Sue started on episode #37. Feel free to play prior interview parts.

Heavy Or Not #41 explores four critical topics. Concise discussion on pressing issues and innovative solutions. Exploring how NZ Drowning Prevention went into a floating frenzy. School closures and Equity Concerns raised in public comment by a parent with cutting perspective to Pittsburgh Public Schools. Canadian teen makes a heroic water rescue. She saves a kayaker in Georgian Bay, Ontario. AI Innovations: Real-Time Speech Translation and Accent Conversion in Google Meet and Krisp.  

Heavy Or Not, The OG Swim Guide, #40. Innovative Pool and Team Management: Leveraging Private Sector and Community Partnerships Enhancing Aquatic Programs: Integrating Fitness and Health for Sustainable Pool Operations Insightful discussion with Swim OGs, Mick and Sue Nelson, as they delve into the challenges and solutions surrounding pool, team and aquatic management, planning and programming. Discover how innovative approaches can transform the future of swimming facilities. Explore the financial fears and sustainability issues of subsidized pool models. Learn about the role of private sector and entrepreneurial coaches in pool management. Understand the importance of bridging the gap between swim schools and high school programs. Discover strategies for effective use of underutilized pools across the country. Gain insights into drowning prevention and the broader impact on aquatic health and wellness. Don't forget to subscribe for more episodes and join the conversation! Introduction of Sue happened on #37.  More artwork on the Substack pages. See https://Substack.com/@rauterkus. Total Aquatic Programming is at https://TotalAquatics.llc   

Open water swimming insights from the International Swim Coaches Association's upcoming festivals. Discover why these events are more than just races and how they can enhance your swimming skills. Overview of the East Coast Open Water Festival and the new Jamestown Open Water Festival. Detailed race formats, including The Great Knockout and family-friendly options. Comprehensive safety measures and protocols in place for participants. Benefits of open water swimming, from endurance to mental resilience. Practical tips for transitioning from pool swimming to open water challenges. Join us as we explore the opportunities these festivals offer to swimmers of all ages and abilities.       Learn More & Sign Up Plus, Andrew Sheaff, coach, author, consultant, shares some insights on a great tip that can be applied to everyone’s swimming.

#38 Navigating the Complexities of Drowning Prevention in a Changing Political Climate - part 2 with Sue and Mick Nelson The critical issues surrounding swimming, coaching and community recreation is water safety, and less so the making of gold-medal champions. The challenges faced by aquatic facilities today are on the rise. Closing pools. Indifferent politicians. Tighter budgets. Busy families. Covid too. Discover the trends, obstacles, and solutions in the world of swimming and drowning prevention. The impact of COVID-19 on drowning statistics and swimming lessons. Challenges in maintaining and operating commercial swimming pools. The shortage of qualified lifeguards and its implications. The role of local organizations versus national support in drowning prevention. The importance of educating communities and politicians about the value of aquatic facilities.   Half of Americans don't know how to swim, yet they're the ones making decisions about our pools. It's time to educate our communities and politicians on the true value of water safety." - Sue Nelson Key concepts: Drowning prevention, data analysis, CDC, Consumer Product Safety Commission, trends, COVID impact, swimming pools, lifeguards, aquatic programming, local advocacy, ethnic disparities, pool closures, maintenance issues, swimming lessons, community education, USA Swimming, private sector, public sector, water safety, Mick Nelson, Sue Nelson, Mark Rauterkus, podcast, aquatics, governmental challenges.   Notes of Merit Data Usage and Comparison Difference between data usage by Mick Nelson's organization and the CDC. Importance of current data for local advocacy and marketing. Trends identification and the limitations of data collection. Impact of Political and Economic Changes Effects of layoffs and budget cuts on data collection and analysis. The role of local organizations versus national support. The importance of local action plans in drowning prevention. Trends in Drowning and Water Safety The impact of COVID-19 on drowning statistics and swimming lessons. Increase in backyard pools and their safety concerns. Ethnic disparities in drowning rates, particularly among Hispanics. Swimming Pool Closures and Maintenance Issues Tracking of commercial pool closures and reasons behind them. Challenges in pool maintenance and the role of trained personnel. Financial constraints and their impact on pool operations. Lifeguard Shortages and Training Difficulty in recruiting lifeguards and the reasons behind it. The need for qualified lifeguards due to increased recreational facilities. The impact of work ethics and financial incentives on lifeguard availability. Community Education and Political Influence The lack of swimming skills among Americans and its implications. The role of community and political education in valuing aquatic facilities. Misconceptions about the financial operations of swimming pools. Future Discussions and Podcast Continuation Introduction to upcoming topics in the next podcast episode. The need for increased swimming education and awareness. The role of the private sector in addressing aquatic needs.   Learn more Link to the business of Sue and Mick Nelson, Total Aquatic Programming, https://TotalAquatic.llc Heavy Or Not podcast International Swim Coaches Association Heavy Or Not #37, and Part 1, and Introduction to Sue Nelson’s Career Journey on Substack.

An introducation to Sue Nelson, part 1.  Explore the inspiring career-journey of Sue Nelson and her husband, Mick, who transformed their coaching careers by thinking beyond traditional competitive swimming. Discover how they built a thriving aquatics business by embracing innovation and community needs. Learn about the pivotal moment that led Sue to shift from competitive swimming to aquatic fitness and therapy. Explore how they launched Waterway Therapy, a Medicare-certified outpatient agency, and expanded their services. Understand the strategic partnerships they formed with hospitals and fitness organizations. USA Swimming hired the for important work to support coaches and clubs in their efforts to build their own facilities Discover the importance of creating multiple revenue streams for a stable and sustainable business model. Gain insights into how their approach to coaching can be adapted by others to build a successful career. In future episodes, we'll hear more from Mick and Sue as they've been key players in keeping statistics on water safety.  Their business is Total Aquatic Programming, LLC at https://totalaquatic.llc/.

#36 A Tour of Insights and Coaching Wisdom Episode 36 of "Heavy Or Not, The OG Swim Guide," presents comprehensive tour of the podcast archives from Coach Mark Rauterkus. Whether you're a new listener or a long-time fan, this episode is your chance to catch up on all the valuable insights shared so far. Explore the importance of mindset in sports and how mental reps can enhance athletic performance. Dive into the mechanics of swimming, focusing on kicking, body position, and stroke efficiency. Discover the role of artificial intelligence in sports and how it can revolutionize coaching and performance tracking. Learn about the challenges and potential solutions for revitalizing aquatic programs in Pittsburgh Public Schools. Gain insights into the history of swimming coaching, including Cold War secrets and innovative training techniques. Subscribe to the podcast for more episodes packed with swimming wisdom and coaching strategies! Go back and replay the laps you skipped. Every dozen episodes, it is time for a review. Our content is evergreen, as we develop our voice and encourage you to absorb the archives. The walkthrough hits every episode released so far. Catch up on all the swimming wisdom we've shared. Mindset Mastery: Revisit the importance of mental reps in sports and how to train the space between your ears just like your physical skills. Kicking Techniques: Dive into the mechanics of kicking and learn how to design practices that build effective swimming skills. AI in Sports: Discover how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing sports coaching and performance tracking. Aquatic Education: Explore the challenges and potential of revitalizing aquatic programs in urban school districts. Cultural Perspectives: Gain insights into global coaching practices and how they differ from the US approach. Episode #06 is the shortest one, clocking in at just under three minutes. It's a quick yet profound reflection on life, coaching, and passion that’s definitely worth a replay! We’re excited to have you with us on this journey through our podcast archives. Each episode is packed with insights, tips and inspiring stories that are as fresh today as when they were first released. Thanks for being part of our community. Have a wonderful, safe time at the pool! Check out all the episodes in a course at WAFSU.org. Join the conversation!

35, The Importance of Social Support in Overcoming Sport Injuries Recap of the ebook, Psychology of Sport Injury, edited by Dr. John Heil, that explores the multifaceted impact of injury on athletes. The book emphasizes the critical role of psychological care alongside physical treatment for successful recovery and performance. It covers various aspects of sport injury, including the athlete's perspective, psychological risk factors, assessment and intervention strategies, and biomedical issues like pain management and medication. The ebook and this podcast highlights the importance of a team-based approach involving physicians, sports medicine specialists, and psychologists, and discusses challenges such as chronic pain, fear of reinjury, and managing the transition out of competitive sport. Ultimately, the ebook advocates for a comprehensive, psychologically-informed approach to injury management that can extend beyond the athletic realm. Structured overview of the topics and sub-topics discussed in the jump cut #35 of Heavy Or Not Psychological Approach in Rehab Education for the patient Setting clear goals Using mental training techniques Leveraging social support Podcast and E-book Introduction Mention of "The Ready Room" podcast Introduction to the e-book "The Psychology of Sport Injury" by Dr. John Heil Summer McIntosh's Interview sample snip Excitement about moving to Texas Trust in training and potential unknowns Future educational plans   Psychology of Sport Injury Physical vs. mental and emotional aspects of injury Importance of addressing psychological side in treatment Dr. John Heil's personal story illustrating psychological impact Broader Application of Insights Application beyond traditional athletes Relevance to performing artists and musicians Unique Needs of Athletes and Performers Differentiation between normal and high-demand performance settings Emergence of sports medicine and sports psychology Team-Based Approach in Sports Medicine Multi-specialty involvement Psychological impact of all team members Athlete's Experience with Injury Internal and external pressures Complexity of pain for athletes Decision-making in return to play Career Termination Due to Injury Life transition and identity adjustment Importance of counseling Pre-Injury Psychological Factors Influence of stress and focus on injury risk Stress model and its implications Psychological Assessment and Tools Comprehensive assessment approach Use of pain scales, psych tests, and diaries Intervention and Team Approach Psychological intervention based on distress and commitment Importance of developmental stage Chronic Pain Management Multidisciplinary approach Synergistic effects of coordinated care Role of Social Support Types of social support Importance of maintaining team connection Mental Training Techniques Relaxation, imagery, and biofeedback Pain management strategies Rehabilitation Challenges Muscular guarding and compliance issues Overcompliance and related risks Severe and Catastrophic Injuries Intensive intervention needs Career-ending injuries and identity loss Psychological and Medical Integration Multidisciplinary team value Proactive prevention and early intervention Patient-Athlete Metaphor Application of principles to all injured patients Broader role of psychologists in the team Remarkable Recovery and Growth Commitment and hard work in recovery Sport as a microcosm of life Final Thoughts and Takeaways Sport injury as a mind-body challenge Transferable skills for life challenges Call to Action Encouragement to join the International Swim Coaches Association Subscription and sharing of the podcast Links: Get the ebook: https://psp.sendowl.com/s/ebook/psych/psychology-of-sport-injury-by-international-swim-coaches-assocation To the full interview with Summer McIntosh on The Ready Room.   

Saving Swimming Pools: The Battle for Community Resources and Health Benefits The Role of Sports in Social Services and Community Development The pressing issues facing the world of sports and swimming today needs YOU at the TABLE. From the closure of swimming pools to the role of sports in education, we must lead and seek power for more those beyond the championship meets. The potential closure of over 30 swimming pools in Toronto and its implications. The launch of enhanced games and the controversy surrounding supplement use. The importance of sports being included in discussions on health and education. The impact of budget cuts on drowning prevention efforts and opportunities for intervention. The role of community engagement and innovative solutions in promoting sports and safety. We made a call out for Sue and Mick Nelson to join in future discussions. An interview is expected. But sadly, there were a few mistakes.  Corrections: Mick and Sue Nelson worked at USA Swimming, not for the Foundation. Their company, Total Aquatic Programming, (see https://totalaquatic.llc/)  is still an independent contractors for USA Swimming. Since 2008, they have been collecting data on fatal drownings. Their goal is to help individuals, cities, foundations, and others identify their risks and understand where drownings are occurring. This information enables them to develop strategies and campaigns to raise awareness and inform their communities. They also have kept records on pool closings.  Sequence of topics covered in the transcript, with sub-topic bullets below each primary topic: Challenges in Sports and Swimming Closing of swimming pools in Toronto Launch of enhanced games and concerns about supplement use Efforts to get a big picture view of the situation Child Protection and Social Services in the UK Comparison of information quality between the UK and Canada Role of Sport for Life in Canada Importance of sport in reintegrating kids into school Sport's Role in Health and Education Lack of representation of sport at decision-making tables Conversation with a developer about community needs and tax concerns Importance of selling the benefits of sports to health and education sectors Efforts to Save Swimming Pools in Ontario Battles to save school swimming pools Changing public perception about the value of swimming pools The role of swimming pools in community service and safety Integration of Sport in Social Services Challenges in aligning sport with social services, police, and hospitals Importance of understanding and meeting the needs of different stakeholders Starting small and expanding successful programs Selling Sport as a Community Builder The concept of "our gang" in sports Using sport to change lives and build community Creative ways to engage volunteers and participants Impact of Policy Changes on Drowning Prevention Effects of budget cuts on drowning prevention efforts Opportunities for sports organizations to fill the gap Importance of maintaining and expanding drowning prevention initiatives Data Collection and Analysis on Drowning Incidents Mick Nelson's work on tracking drowning statistics The need for comprehensive data to inform prevention strategies Potential collaboration with Mick Nelson for insights and business opportunities Future of Swimming and Sports Post-COVID Challenges in swimming education and access post-COVID The impact of COVID on sports participation and development Exploring alternatives and new sports trends Engagement and Community Building through Media Promotion of the "Heavy or Not" TV show and podcast Invitation for audience participation with school or team mascots Use of mascots in promoting mental skills for young athletes Each topic and sub-topic provides a detailed look into the various discussions and concerns raised in Heavy Or Not, jump-cut #34.