CVASPS The Podcast

Central VA Sport Performance
  • 4.7 (52)
  • Fitness
  • Updated Weekly

Thanks for checking out The CVASPS Podcast! On our show will bring the best practitioners in the field of strength and conditioning from around the world together to discuss all aspects of athlete development. Each show has a unique theme that is designed to help your athletes in improve performance. We hope you enjoy the show, and if you do, like all our content, feel free to share it with anyone is the sport performance field who you feel will find value in the content. 

  1. 4d ago

    Season 6 Episode 28- Zane Scott- Win Every Training Session

    In this weeks episode of The Podcast we are joined by Zane Scott to discuss the strategic focus on internal mobility within sports performance departments, emphasizing its role in strengthening staff loyalty and improving team dynamics. He shares insights from his experience at FAU, highlighting the importance of developing career pathways and creating growth opportunities for staff. Zane explains how transparency in setting expectations can aid in retaining staff and how understaffing can be leveraged as a catalyst for departmental growth. The conversation delves into mentoring young coaches and managing their career transitions, balancing long-term athlete development with short-term wins, and the benefits of diversity in coaching experiences across different levels, from D2 to high-major programs. Zane underscores the significance of building a cohesive, adaptable team culture, emphasizing humility and resilience in staff development. He also discusses tactical approaches for advocating for departmental resources and growth, sharing examples of promoting staff. The episode concludes with reflections on the power of consistency, shared purpose, and the importance of nurturing internal talent to build a transparent, growth-oriented environment. Takeaways Internal mobility strengthens staff loyalty and enhances team dynamics. Developing clear career pathways is crucial for staff retention. Transparency in expectations helps retain and motivate staff. Understaffing can drive innovation and departmental growth. Mentoring young coaches is essential for their career transitions. Balancing long-term athlete development with immediate wins is vital. Diverse coaching experiences enrich team culture and performance. Building a cohesive team culture requires humility and resilience. Advocating for resources demands strategic planning and communication. Promoting from within fosters a sense of loyalty and commitment. Consistency and shared purpose are key to team success. Creating growth opportunities boosts staff morale and engagement. Honest communication about opportunities builds trust. Practical, hands-on training is invaluable in high-stakes environments. Focusing on foundational principles ensures sustainable growth.

    33 min

  2. Jun 15

    Season 6 Episode 27- Henry Barrera- Frameworks and Filters in Coaching

    In this episode of the Central Virginia Sport Performance Podcast, host Jay DeMayo welcomes Alabama's Henry Barrera back to the podcast. They delve into Henry's journey from coaching high school basketball to his current role at Alabama, emphasizing the importance of continuous growth and development. The discussion highlights the significance of curiosity, feedback, and simplicity in coaching, as well as the integration of analytics in training, known as "Bamalytics" at Alabama. Henry shares his philosophy of building partnerships with athletes, moving away from a militaristic approach to a more collaborative one. He emphasizes the value of intuition and experience, supported by data, to enhance athlete performance. The conversation also explores the role of journaling and networking in personal and professional growth, underscoring the need for truth-tellers in one's life. The episode concludes with reflections on the challenges of modern coaching, the importance of vulnerability, and the pursuit of authentic growth. Henry offers insights into his training principles, such as mastering movement and strategic overload, and shares his admiration for influential figures in the field, suggesting future guests for the podcast. Key Points:  • Growth mindset and continuous development are central to Henry's coaching philosophy.  • Henry emphasizes building partnerships with athletes, moving away from a militaristic approach.  • Training is categorized into three buckets: strong, build, and explode, tailored to athlete needs.  • Relentless passion and showing up every day are crucial for growth and learning.  • "Challenge creates change" is a guiding principle in Henry's approach.  • Mastering movement to maximize power is a key training principle. Quotes:  • "It's one of our core values here, continuous growth to me."  • "Challenge creates change, you know?"  • "Principles for me, if we're talking training, number one is always going to be master movement to maximize power."  • "I kind of have three buckets in my head and on paper really, strong, and explode."  • "The biggest thing right now in terms of growth and learning and development is showing up every day with relentless passion." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Growth and Development 03:06 The Importance of a Growth Mindset 05:54 Frameworks and Filters in Coaching 09:04 Building Relationships with Athletes 11:52 The Role of Challenge in Growth 14:38 The Power of Journaling and Reflection 17:33 Truth Tellers and Honest Feedback 20:15 The Intersection of Personal and Professional Growth 23:35 Mastering Movement and Compounding Growth 26:26 Conclusion and Future Aspirations

    32 min

  3. Jun 8

    Season 6 Episode 26- Colton Susen- You either Hit The Standard or Your Don’t

    In this episode of the Central Virginia Sport Performance Podcast, host Jay DeMayo welcomes East Carolina University Men's Basketball Strength Coach Colton Susen. They delve into Colton's journey through various coaching roles at universities like Michigan and Southern Illinois. The discussion focuses on the importance of individualized training programs for athletes, emphasizing risk profiling and the use of objective measures to tailor workouts. Colton shares insights on progression and regression in training, particularly in squatting techniques, and the role of technology like flywheels in enhancing performance. The conversation also touches on the significance of building a culture of accountability among athletes and the challenges of adapting training methods to the evolving sports environment. The episode concludes with reflections on the importance of maintaining standards and the continuous pursuit of improvement in coaching practices. Key topics: The significance of initial risk profiling using injury predictors like previous surgeries, neuromuscular control tests, and basic movement screens. Implementation of standardized strength testing (e.g., goblet squat, Zercher, front, and back squat) to establish clear progression benchmarks. The role of objective data in removing guesswork and enhancing athlete buy-in through visual progress tracking. Programming structure: balancing bilateral and unilateral exercises across the season with emphasis on progression and regression. Integration of flywheel training to improve bilateral force output and address plateaus. The importance of foundational strength, mobility, and correct exercise depth to prevent compensation and injury. How to adjust training based on athlete training age, season phase, and individual needs. Using objective metrics to guide load adjustments and mitigate stagnation or plateauing. The potential for such data-driven methods to inform return-to-play and injury prevention strategies. The value of fostering athlete accountability and leadership through performance tracking. Tips for coaches on developing flexible, responsive training systems that adapt over time and seasonality.

    33 min

  4. Jun 1

    Season 6 Episode 25- Vinnie Calautti It’s The Principles That Don’t Change

    In this episode, Jay DeMayo hosts Vinnie Calautti to explore the critical practice of auditing training programs in sport performance coaching. Vinnie delves into the nuances of using objective data to enhance athlete performance and minimize injuries. He emphasizes the importance of moving beyond mere exercise selection to evaluate the stimulus and output of training programs. By leveraging tools like force plates, coaches can gain valuable insights into performance metrics, allowing for more informed adjustments.Vinny also discusses the impact of external factors such as stress, exams, and personal issues on athlete performance, highlighting the need for coaches to consider these elements when assessing performance dips. The conversation covers strategies for injury mitigation, focusing on ground interaction and foot mechanics, and the integration of innovative tools like the Active Foot System (AFS) to complement traditional strength training.The episode further explores the balance between coaching philosophy and the use of technology, emphasizing the significance of fostering athlete commitment over mere compliance. Vinnie shares insights on the benefits of slow, deliberate training tempos to enhance reaction and response, and the art of adapting coaching methods based on athlete feedback.Listeners will gain a comprehensive understanding of how to maintain composure amidst fluctuating data and external pressures, and the importance of balancing objective data with the art and intuition of coaching. The episode concludes with reflections on the evolution of coaching from art to science and back, and the influence of mentorship and industry insights on coaching practices. Key Topics: The importance of moving beyond exercise selection to focus on stimulus and output evaluation How to utilize force plate and objective data for program auditing The role of external factors like stress, exams, and personal issues in athlete performance dips Strategies for injury mitigation by analyzing ground interaction and foot mechanics The balance of traditional lifting principles with innovative tools like AFS (Active Foot System) The impact of coaching philosophy and approach on injury rates and athlete development The significance of understanding and fostering athlete commitment versus compliance Slow, deliberate training tempos as a method for improved reaction and response The art of coaching movement and knowing when to adapt based on athlete feedback Importance of maintaining coach and athlete composure amidst fluctuating data and external pressures.

    29 min

  5. May 27

    Season 6, Episode 24- Ben Steenrod: Good training is good training!

    Summary In this episode of the Central Virginia Sport Performance Podcast, host Jay DeMayo interviews Ben Steenrod, a strength and conditioning coach at Temple. They discuss Ben's journey from working in Olympic sports to basketball. The conversation highlights the importance of versatility, relationship-building, and continuous learning. Ben shares insights on how his diverse coaching experience informs his approach, the significance of small actions in building team culture, and the use of technology in training. The episode concludes with reflections on the challenges and rewards of coaching in today's environment.Key Topics:   Ben's diverse coaching journey across Virginia Tech, Villanova, St. Joe's, and Temple The importance of helping various sports and roles to expand opportunities Navigating the transition from Olympic strength training to basketball-specific conditioning Practical strategies for onboarding transfer players and building team culture Balancing existing coaching principles with personal adaptation Using metrics such as force plate data to guide training decisions Emphasizing relationship-building to foster athlete buy-in and effort The value of old-school training methods like box squats in basketball Adjusting injury prevention exercises to individual needs The significance of communication, transparency, and trust in coaching

    32 min

  6. May 18

    Season 6, Episode 23- Seth Thomsen- Don't Let Adversary Dictate How You Operate

    In this episode, host Jay DeMayo welcomes Kennesaw State's Seth Thomsen, to The Podcast. They explore Seth's journey from playing Division III basketball to coaching, highlighting his experiences across various institutions. The discussion delves into the challenges and rewards of coaching multiple teams, the importance of technical proficiency, and the role of adversity in building resilience. Seth shares insights on maintaining athlete readiness, the significance of nutrition, and fostering a competitive yet supportive team culture. The episode concludes with reflections on the evolving landscape of college sports and the importance of developing strong relationships within a team. Key Takeaways Managing multiple teams builds essential coaching resilience, teaching adaptability and perseverance. Emphasizing high standards in technical skills ensures athletes perform consistently and effectively. Addressing breakfast challenges enhances athlete readiness and energy levels for optimal performance. Creating a positive environment fosters team unity, encouraging both competition and camaraderie. Overcoming challenges strengthens team dynamics and individual growth, preparing athletes for future success. The weight room should be an inviting space that motivates athletes to excel. Consistent practice and high standards are crucial for long-term success and team cohesion. Quotes "You find out really quick if you've got it, and if this is where you're going to be." (5:12) "The weight room should be an environment that you want to be in." (12:06) "We don't run from adversity. We don't run from hard work." (27:07) "Stay ready. You never know when it's going to be your time." (10:07) "It's a place that players want to play." (11:39) Timestamps 0:16- Introduction and welcome 1:07- Seth's background and journey 4:14- Coaching multiple teams and learning experiences 7:14- Overcoming team adversity and building success 12:06- Importance of the weight room environment 19:22- Nutrition challenges and solutions 26:08- Setting standards and maintaining team culture 31:28- Future podcast guest suggestions

    33 min

  7. May 10

    Season 6, Episode 22- Priya Sidhu- Linking Track To The Court

    In this episode of the Central Virginia Sport Performance Podcast, host Jay DeMayo welcomes Priya Sidhu to The Podcast where she shares with us the foundational aspects of building a successful athletic program from scratch. Priya shares her journey in collegiate strength and conditioning, emphasizing the importance of culture, communication, and trust. The discussion covers how to integrate performance staff into team norms, the role of programming in aligning with coaching philosophies, and the impact of modern transfer culture on athlete management. Priya also highlights the significance of competitive training environments and the holistic development of athletes beyond sports. The episode concludes with insights into the challenges and rewards of coaching in today's dynamic environment. Key Topics The importance of culture in strength and conditioning and how it extends beyond physical training Building a program from a blank slate: starting with communication, values, and trus The critical role of the performance staff in establishing team norms and expectations Programming for style of play: speed, agility, and efficiency tailored to coaching philosophies Integrating track and sprint mechanics for basketball performance enhancement The challenges and opportunities of short-term athlete development in college sports Creating competitive training environments to increase motivation and accountability The long-term holistic development of athletes: beyond the sport—life skills and mentality The impact of modern transfer culture and NIL on program building and athlete management This episode emphasizes that entrusting the performance staff with the foundation of culture and athlete development is pivotal for building sustainable, high-functioning teams. Coaches should focus not only on the physical but also on cultivating trust, clarity, and aligned standards, especially amidst the rapid changes in transfer dynamics and athlete expectations.

    30 min

  8. Apr 20

    Season 6, Episode 21-Alan Bishop- You Got to Be Able to Adapt

    SummaryIn this episode of the Central Virginia Sport Performance Podcast, host Jay DeMayo welcomes Alan Bishop to explore the art of building resilient teams in sports. They discuss Alan's journey in coaching and the impact of transfer portal dynamics on team building. The conversation emphasizes the importance of cultivating a demanding off-season culture, balancing individualized training with team cohesion, and fostering accountability and resilience. Alan shares insights on leadership, the evolving landscape of coaching, and the role of relationships in athlete success. The episode concludes with reflections on the challenges and rewards of coaching in today's dynamic environment. Key topics Impact of transfer portal dynamics on team building Cultivating a demanding off-season culture Balancing individualized training with team cohesion Accountability and norms in performance Developing mental toughness and resilience Implementing progressive challenges in training Creating an environment that attracts the right fit Leadership and coaching relationships in athlete success Evolving landscape of coaching and program management Building relationships that foster growth Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction to Houston program success and coach Alan Bishop 02:04 - How portal day influences team roster construction 03:57 - Balancing transfer influences with athlete development 04:55 - Importance of exercise transferability 06:24 - Tailoring training for individual needs 07:45 - Margins between successful training and overtraining 08:21 - Significance of a demanding off-season 09:28 - Transfer as training maturity 10:22 - Effects of season length and planning 11:48 - Incorporating isometrics and regenerative strategies 12:46 - Well-thought-out programming aligned with philosophy 13:43 - Navigating coaching changes and adaptation 14:37 - Managing player stress and recovery 15:42 - Impact of offseason programming on cohesion 16:11 - Building relationships amidst challenges 17:09 - Relationship building in coaching and loyalty 18:36 - Purposeful decision-making and communication 19:53 - Approachability and safe environment for development 20:26 - Offseason culture and recruitment transparency 22:11 - Setting high standards and accountability 23:35 - Culture of ownership through team efforts 25:29 - Team conditioning and collective identity 26:12 - Challenging athletes to reinforce ownership 27:02 - Setting clear, measurable standards 28:02 - Norms for accountability and routines 29:01 - Data-driven conditioning and accountability 30:49 - Courage in coaching—pushing comfort zones 33:49 - Challenges creating shared ownership 35:07 - Management of trophies, resilience, and expectations 36:02 - Opportunities to overcome adversity 36:57 - Balancing results with development 37:27 - Impact of a demanding head coach 38:55 - Role of luck, relationships, and staffing 40:21 - Insights on mental toughness and careers 41:19 - Future guest suggestions 43:11 - Importance of relationship-building and program fit 43:40 - Future conversations with coaching minds 44:05 - Closing thoughts: learning and mentorship Additional Notes Emphasize building a culture rooted in accountability and shared goals. Recognize challenges in recruiting, retention, and mental health. Encourage adaptability, data-informed, and player-centered coaching

    44 min
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About

Thanks for checking out The CVASPS Podcast! On our show will bring the best practitioners in the field of strength and conditioning from around the world together to discuss all aspects of athlete development. Each show has a unique theme that is designed to help your athletes in improve performance. We hope you enjoy the show, and if you do, like all our content, feel free to share it with anyone is the sport performance field who you feel will find value in the content. 

Information

  • Creator
    Central VA Sport Performance
  • Years Active
    2015 - 2026
  • Episodes
    671
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Central VA Sport Performance
  • Show Website
    CVASPS The Podcast

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