MPE Podcast

In Episode 8 of the MPE Pod, we’re joined by Tommy Gardiner, Assistant Coach at Maryland Baseball and a key voice in the program’s defensive and offensive development.A former Terp infielder (2018–2021), Tommy helped lead Maryland back to a Regional as a player and has since helped guide the program to two Big Ten regular season championships and one Big Ten Tournament title as a coach. Under his tutelage, Maryland has produced seven All-Conference infielders since 2022, including 2023 Brooks Wallace Award winner Matt Shaw.Tommy was also the first coach outside of Coach Matt Swope to integrate Motor Preferences into daily practice, helping bridge traditional infield fundamentals with individualized movement-based development.In this episode, we discuss:• Tommy’s coaching journey and transition from player to coach• How he defines Motor Preferences• Applying MP to infield development• Building confident, consistent defenders• Structuring daily defensive work• Advice for young coaches and infieldersThis episode is a valuable listen for baseball coaches, infielders, and anyone interested in individualized player development and long-term growth.

In this episode of the MPE Pod, we sit down with Laura Heberling, Associate Head Coach at Kansas Softball and a pitching coach known for developing confident, high-level arms.Laura shares her coaching journey from Maryland to Kansas and explains how Motor Preferences became part of her approach through her relationship with Coach Matt Swope. She breaks down how MP applies to pitching, how it helps individualize development, and how coaches can support pitchers without over-coaching mechanics.The conversation dives into pitcher confidence, daily development, recruiting philosophy, and the lessons Laura has learned while working across multiple programs and roles.This episode is especially valuable for softball coaches, pitching coaches, and athletes looking to better understand individualized development and long-term growth.

EP 6: Chicago Cubs 3B Matt ShawIn this episode of The MPE Pod, we sit down with Chicago Cubs third baseman Matt Shaw to break down what it takes to perform and stay consistent at the highest level of baseball.Matt shares how understanding his Motor Preferences gave him clarity around his movement, swing decisions, and preparation, helping him eliminate unnecessary trial and error as he transitioned from college baseball to the Major Leagues. We dive into the mental side of hitting, in-season adjustments, and why chasing universal mechanics often creates more problems than solutions.Topics include:• How Motor Preferences create a clear performance blueprint• Feel vs real and why cues matter in elite competition• Staying balanced and coordinated against high-level velocity• Making adjustments without losing your identity• Applying Motor Preferences beyond hitting, including defense• Advice for players navigating modern development and information overloadThis episode is a must-watch for players, coaches, and parents looking for a smarter, more sustainable approach to development and performance.👍 If you enjoyed the episode, like the video, leave a comment, and subscribe for more conversations on performance, movement, and Motor Preferences.

In this episode we sit down with JT Gasso, Associate Head Coach for Oklahoma Softball, one of the most dominant programs in NCAA history with 6 national championships, 9 WCWS appearances, and a long-standing reputation for elite offense. JT has played a major role in developing some of the best hitters in the country.Oklahoma was also the first softball program to partner with Motor Preferences Experts (MPE) in 2022. JT breaks down how Motor Preferences have changed training, communication, and player development inside one of college softball’s greatest dynasties.

In this episode, we dive into Aerial vs. Terrestrial movers, what they are, why they matter, and how they shape the way athletes swing, pitch, and field. Learn how to spot these natural styles, common misconceptions to avoid, and simple adjustments that can unlock hidden performance. Coach Swope also discusses his approach to individualizing routines, showing how respecting movement preferences helps build complete players and stronger teams.X: @MotorPreferenceIG: @motorpreferencesexpertsWebsite: www.motorpreferencesexperts.com

What you’ll learn in this episode:• The cultural and environmental impacts on motor preferences (with examples from the Maasai and Māori)• How food industries shape energy availability, development, and athletic outcomes• Why a holistic approach combining movement, nutrition, psychology, and recovery is essential• How athletes adapt to stress and energy demands over time• The “Acceptance Tank” concept and its role in managing performance ceilingsWe close with key takeaways for coaches and athletes who want to optimize performance and train with purpose.👉 Don’t forget to follow, rate, and share the MP Pod, and join us as we keep exploring the science of Motor Preferences and athletic development.

🎙️ Episode: Where Does Motor Preferences Come From?We start with a quick recap of the All-Star break and some standout success stories, then dive into the big question: What is Motor Preferences (MP) and where did it come from?You'll learn:How MP was developed through 30 years of European sports scienceVolodalen’s key role in building the MP systemWhat Motor Preferences are and why they matter (Aerial vs. Terrestrial, Associated vs. Disassociated, etc.)Why one-size-fits-all training doesn’t work—and how MP helps athletes train smarterHow MP impacts performance, injury prevention, and even confidence👉 Subscribe, share, and follow to stay in the loop!

Episode 1: Welcome to The MP PodHosted by Matt Swope, David “The Witch” Genest, Matt Woods, and Nick RobinsonIn our debut episode, we introduce The MP Pod — a show dedicated to exploring the science of Motor Preferences and its real-world application for athletes, coaches, and performance specialists.We dive into:What you can expect from future episodesHow Matt and David’s first conversation sparked a powerful collaborationSwope’s journey from coach to Motor Preferences advocateDavid’s deep background in movement science (and how he earned the nickname “The Witch”)Matt Woods’ introduction to MPHow the MPE team came together to form a movement-driven missionWhether you're a coach, athlete, trainer, or just obsessed with performance, The MP Pod is your go-to resource for MLB insights, player development, and science-backed training concepts.👉 Subscribe, follow, and share — and send us your questions or topics you'd like covered!Brought to you by Motor Preferences Experts (MPE) — optimizing how athletes train, move, and perform.🔗 motorpreferencesexperts.com📩 Email: info@motorpreferencesexperts.com📱 Instagram: @MotorPreferencesExperts🐦 Twitter/X: @MotorPreference