Strong By Design Podcast

Team CriticalBench
  • 4.9 (276)
  • FITNESS
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We believe that you are STRONG BY DESIGN. We believe you were made in God’s image to have a strong body, mind and spirit. The Strong by Design podcast is the #1 resource for strength, health, and fitness solutions in the world. Tune in for expert interviews, fitness tips, nutrition advice, free workout sheets, supplement giveaways all while being encouraged, inspired and entertained. Brought to you by Critical Bench who reaches over 30 million fans per month between our email newsletter, YouTube, Instagram and Facebook. If you're interested in being a guest on the show or doing a collaboration please send an email to strongbydesignpodcast@gmail.comNew Episodes go LIVE every week on Wednesday and sometimes bonus releases on Saturday. So let’s get ready to unlock your potential and transform your life!

  1. Ep 418 I Can Do ALL Things Through Christ Who Strengthens Me (Christmas Special)

    15H AGO

    Ep 418 I Can Do ALL Things Through Christ Who Strengthens Me (Christmas Special)

    Send us a text In this special Christmas episode, Coach Chris Wilson and Jared Haley reflect on the deeper meaning of the season through the lens of Philippians 4:4–13.  While many know verse 4:13 by heart, this conversation slows down to explore the powerful truths that come before it—rejoicing in the Lord, trusting God in prayer, and experiencing peace that surpasses all understanding.  Chris and Jared discuss what it truly means to live as peacemakers, and how peace begins in our own hearts and minds. Drawing from Scripture, they talk about the responsibility we have to take our thoughts captive and focus on what is true, noble, and praiseworthy.  The episode also challenges listeners to move beyond simply hearing God’s Word and into living it out through obedience and trust. Ultimately, this conversation points back to Christ as the source of our strength, peace, and hope. Especially during the Christmas season, it’s a reminder that we are not meant to do life on our own.  In Christ, we find the strength to walk forward—no matter the circumstances. This episode is an invitation to slow down, reflect, and rediscover the peace only Jesus can give. Merry Christmas! Time Stamps 00:00 - The Peace of God that Transcends all understanding 00:47 — Welcome to the Strong by Design podcast! 01:12 - Join Hosts Chris and Jared for today’s exciting Christmas special 02:50 – Christmas decorations and putting up the tree 06:50 – A Thanksgiving meme that sends them into laughter 08:58 – The powerful lessons in the book of Philippians 13:00 – Redefining what PEACE actually means 16:40 – Learn how to protect your heart and mind 20:15 - How negative thinking hijacks your mind 26:55 - Small actions that make you a peacemaker 32:00 - Chris and Jared on the hard truth about peacemaking 35:52 - The brain hack nobody told you about 38:55 - This is the peace the world can’t offer 44:00 - Why Philippians 4:13 isn’t exactly what you think 48:25 - The Christmas blessing you need to hear  Resources: YouVersion Bible App Connect with Jared: Instagram Connect with Chris: Instagram Use Code 'SBD25' to save 25% on Neuro-Thrive - Keep your Christmas Memories Alive! Support the show Connect w/ CriticalBench: Youtube Facebook Instagram CriticalBench.com StrongByDesignPodcast.com

    53 min
  2. Ep 417 - Is “Pickleball Shoulder” the New Tennis Elbow? ft. Coach Zach Zenios & Andy Tzinberg

    DEC 10

    Ep 417 - Is “Pickleball Shoulder” the New Tennis Elbow? ft. Coach Zach Zenios & Andy Tzinberg

    Send us a text In this special episode of the Strong by Design Podcast, host Coach Chris Wilson sits down with Coach Zach Zenios, creator of Ageless Shoulders, and Coach Andy Tzinberg, a seasoned pickleball instructor, for an eye-opening discussion about shoulder health and longevity on the court.  Together, they explore why pickleball has exploded in popularity—especially among players over 50—and the hidden toll it can take on your body if you’re not prepared. You’ll discover what makes pickleball so addictive, the real reason so many players develop shoulder pain, and how small daily habits can make or break your performance. Coach Zach breaks down the concept of Frozen Blood Flow and explains why dynamic movement—not rest or ice—is the secret to lasting joint health. Coach Andy shares practical insights from his years coaching players of all levels, including smart warm-up strategies and techniques to avoid repetitive stress. Stay tuned as the conversation dives into the power of Indian Club training and how the Ageless Shoulders program is helping players restore mobility, strength, and confidence—so they can keep playing the game they love, pain-free, for years to come.   Time Stamps 00:46 — Welcome to the Strong by Design podcast! 01:19 — Host Chris Wilson with special guests: Coaches Zach Zenios & Andy Tzinberg 01:58 — What you’ll uncover in today’s episode 03:20 — Get to know Coach Zach & Coach Andy 06:25 — Why pickleball is exploding and what draws people in 10:59 — Pickleball rating system… decoded 14:28 — How Andy went from the classroom to the pickleball court 16:22 — Inside Coach Zach’s daily routine 21:10 — What really attracts people to pickleball 24:58 — Smart strategies for managing repetitive stress 28:40 — One thing you should never forget before playing 33:32 — Secrets to staying injury-free and performing at your peak 41:25 — Hear Andy’s first-ever Indian Club experience 45:13 — Tips for anyone struggling with body pain 49:25 — What really happens when we stop moving dynamically? 53:44 — What’s the most dominant motion in pickleball? 58:18 — How do you train to truly get better? 01:04:19 — Surprising ways Indian Clubs reshape your body and movement 01:09:15 — Andy opens up about how the game transforms people’s lives 01:11:46 — How Ageless Shoulders can help you—revealed here! 01:13:26 — Curious about the Ageless Shoulders program? 01:14:39 — Please share and leave ratings & reviews for the Strong by Design podcast!     Resources: AgelessShoulders.com   Connect with Coach Zach: Instagram   Connect with Coach Andy: Instagram   Connect with Coach Chris: Instagram Use Code 'SBD25' to save 25% on Neuro-Thrive - Keep your Christmas Memories Alive! Support the show Connect w/ CriticalBench: Youtube Facebook Instagram CriticalBench.com StrongByDesignPodcast.com

    1h 17m
  3. Ep 416 Are you a GIVER or a TAKER? [Thanksgiving Special]

    NOV 26

    Ep 416 Are you a GIVER or a TAKER? [Thanksgiving Special]

    Send us a text In this special Thanksgiving episode, Coach Chris Wilson dives into the timeless ideas from Adam Grant’s bestselling book Give and Take — exploring how gratitude, generosity, and giving back can transform not just your relationships, but your success and happiness as well. As the world slows down for the holiday, this is the perfect time to reflect on who’s helped you get where you are, and how you can pour back into others. Chris breaks down the three types of people — Givers, Takers, and Matchers — and shares how adopting a giver’s mindset can multiply your impact without burning out. You’ll hear insights on: How gratitude fuels generosity — and how giving deepens gratitude.The difference between selfless and “otherish” giving (and why one sustains you while the other drains you).Why leading with generosity creates stronger relationships, richer opportunities, and lasting fulfillment.How to make Thanksgiving more than a holiday — but a habit of the heart.Chris also shares practical ways to live these ideas daily — from small acts of kindness to building a gratitude and giving practice that rewires how you lead, live, and love. This is a heartfelt reminder that success isn’t just about what you get — it’s about what you give. Because when you give first, everyone wins. Share it with a friend, family member, or teammate who’s made a difference in your life. Let them know how much they matter — that’s the real spirit of Thanksgiving. Time Stamps 00:55 – Welcome to the 'Strong by Design' podcast 01:19 – Join Chris Wilson for a special solo episode 04:00 – What this episode is all about 07:14 – A book that changed Chris’s perspective 09:28 – Discover the three types of people in life 13:45 – Unlocking the concept of 'Otherish Giving' 18:31 – How generosity drives long-term impact 21:35 – Connecting it all to Thanksgiving 24:29 – The power of being in a state of gratitude 28:00 – Simple ways to show thankfulness every day 31:09 – The ripple effect: small actions, big impact 33:35 – A powerful, heartfelt reflection from Chris 1:09:42 – Please share and leave ratings & reviews for the SBD podcast! Resources: Give and Take – The Book Connect with Chris: Instagram Support the show Connect w/ CriticalBench: Youtube Facebook Instagram CriticalBench.com StrongByDesignPodcast.com

    41 min
  4. Ep 415 Elite Athlete Secrets: Recovery, Longevity & Concussion Rehab ft. Ben Velazquez

    NOV 12

    Ep 415 Elite Athlete Secrets: Recovery, Longevity & Concussion Rehab ft. Ben Velazquez

    Send us a text Today on Strong By Design, we’re joined by Ben Velazquez, an award-winning strength and conditioning coach and one of the nation’s top experts in concussion recovery and corrective movement.  As the founder of Grey Matters Sports Group, Ben has worked with elite athletes from the MLB, NFL, and NHL — including legends like Mariano Rivera and Connor McDavid — helping them recover from injuries, correct imbalances, and extend their careers. In this episode, Ben shares the science behind his five-tier concussion recovery system, reveals the most common movement imbalances that lead to injury, and explains how small corrections can create major performance breakthroughs. He also discusses what separates good athletes from great ones and why understanding the brain-body connection is essential for true athletic longevity. If you want to move better, stay injury-free, and perform at your best for years to come, you will not want to miss this conversation.  Learn more about Ben’s work at benvelazquez.com   Time Stamps 01:02 – Welcome to the 'Strong by Design' podcast 02:42 – Join Coach Chris along with our special guest Ben Velazquez 04:00 – Sharing memories with their old friend & mentor Ben Prentiss 07:42 – Ben's memorable success from working with a pro athlete 11:47 – What inspired a career as a strength coach & movement specialist? 17:55 – What your body needs before getting stronger 23:53 – Comparing force production: Pro football vs Pro hockey 24:05 – #1 issue Ben sees with older high-level athletes 27:14 – Strength blueprint: Steps before targeting a body part 29:51 – Sharing insights about various elite athletes 45:24 – How teams and athletes often misjudge concussions or injuries 51:27 – Key factors to perform at your highest level 55:20 – What causes early retirement among athletes? 1:00:27 – Spotting and addressing concussions early in Youth sports 1:06:02 – The importance of combining postural and movement training 1:08:38 – Stay connected beyond the episode with Ben Velazquez 1:09:42 – Please share and leave ratings & reviews for the SBD podcast     Resources: BenVelazquez.com   Connect with Ben: Instagram   Connect with Chris: Instagram Support the show Connect w/ CriticalBench: Youtube Facebook Instagram CriticalBench.com StrongByDesignPodcast.com

    1h 11m
  5. Ep 414 Are We Living in the End Times? ft. Mike Westerdal & Jared Haley

    OCT 29

    Ep 414 Are We Living in the End Times? ft. Mike Westerdal & Jared Haley

    Send us a text When you look at what’s happening in the world today—wars, division, moral confusion—it’s hard not to wonder: Are we in the end times?  In this compelling and timely episode, hosts Jared Haley and Mike Westerdal dive into the fascinating world of Biblical prophecy and what Scripture says about the signs of the end. Drawing from the Book of Revelation, the teachings of Jesus, and other prophetic passages, they explore how ancient words may connect to the realities of our modern world—from global politics and technology to cultural shifts that blur the line between good and evil. While opinions and interpretations vary, Jared and Mike’s goal isn’t to predict dates or feed fear—it’s to encourage awareness, faith, and readiness. Through clear, relatable discussion, they unpack complex theological ideas like the “mark of the beast,” the rebuilding of the Jewish temple, and the symbolism of the red heifer in a way that’s easy to follow and thought-provoking for believers and seekers alike. They also discuss how the Bible’s references to wars, rumors of wars, moral decay, and the rise of global governance might resonate with today’s headlines. Most importantly, this conversation reminds listeners that Jesus’ message was never about fear, but about faithfulness, urgency, and hope. As Jared and Mike emphasize, no one knows the day or hour—but we are called to be ready. This episode challenges listeners to stay awake, stand firm, and live with purpose in uncertain times by following Christ boldly, sharing the Gospel, and living prepared for His return.   Time Stamps 00:16 – Welcome to the 'Strong by Design' podcast  00:40 - Join hosts Mike Westerdal & Jared Haley for today's special episode  01:10 - What exactly do people mean by 'End Times'?  04:45 - The unmistakable signs: Are we living in the last days?  05:55 – Diving into the Book of Revelation  12:22 - Unpacking the Biblical significance of the Third Shrine  19:00 – Uncovering the meaning of the Red Heifer in prophecy  23:50 - The dangers of the last days  29:53 - The true meaning of the Parable of the Ten Virgins  33:20 - In these last days, who will stand for the great commission?  39:55 - What is Christ’s 1,000-Year Reign?  45:13 - This episode's challenge: Read the Word!   Resources: YouVersion Bible App   Connect with Mike: Instagram   Connect with Jared: Instagram Use Code 'SBD25' to save 25% on Neuro-Thrive - Keep your Christmas Memories Alive! Support the show Connect w/ CriticalBench: Youtube Facebook Instagram CriticalBench.com StrongByDesignPodcast.com

    48 min
  6. Ep 413 The Comeback King: Preston Ely on Purpose Beyond Possessions [Part 2]

    OCT 18

    Ep 413 The Comeback King: Preston Ely on Purpose Beyond Possessions [Part 2]

    Send us a text In Part 2 of this powerful conversation, Coach Chris Wilson continues his heartfelt discussion with Preston Ely, founder of Comeback Kings, diving even deeper into what it means to live a life of true purpose and faith.  Together, they unpack the struggles men face when measuring their worth by worldly standards and reveal how genuine strength comes only through surrender and identity in Christ. Preston opens up about his biggest obsession, the birth of Comeback Kings, and how faith and success can coexist when Jesus remains at the center. Chris and Preston also explore the power of simplicity, the meaning of real character, and how doing good impacts the world around us.  The episode closes with a moving prayer and reflection — a reminder that we are all clay in the hands of the ultimate Maker, being shaped for His glory.   Time Stamps 00:53 – Welcome to the 'Strong by Design' podcast! 01:17 – In Part 2, Coach Chris continues his candid and insightful discussion with special guest Preston Ely 05:33 – Years ago, what really measured a man’s worth?  08:43 – Preston’s biggest obsession revealed 14:14 – Success and faith: Can the two truly co-exist? 17:40 – The origin of Comeback Kings 20:46 – Learn the 7 core values of Critical Bench 25:03 – Understanding the two seasons of life 31:06 – Would you rather be a caricature of a character or have real character? 34:36 – Preston shares what physical fitness truly means to him 39:30 – How doing good changes the world around you 42:45 – Why simplicity speaks volumes 47:10 – Chris on the powerful biblical Claymaker story (Romans 9:19-23) 51:10 – Stay connected beyond the episode with Preston Ely 52:33 – A moment of reflection: closing prayer by Chris 53:56 – Please share and leave ratings & reviews for the SBD podcast!   Resources: Comeback Kings Connect with Preston: Instagram   Connect with Chris: Instagram Use Code 'SBD25' to save 25% on Neuro-Thrive - Keep your Christmas Memories Alive! Support the show Connect w/ CriticalBench: Youtube Facebook Instagram CriticalBench.com StrongByDesignPodcast.com

    55 min
  7. Ep 412 The Comeback King: Preston Ely on Purpose Beyond Possessions [Part 1]

    OCT 15

    Ep 412 The Comeback King: Preston Ely on Purpose Beyond Possessions [Part 1]

    Send us a text In this powerful episode of Strong By Design, Coach Chris Wilson sits down with Preston Ely, founder of Comeback Kings, to talk about the journey every man faces between worldly success and spiritual surrender.  Together, they unpack what happens when chasing money, fame, and achievement leaves you empty at the top — and how true peace and identity are only found in Christ. From deep personal stories to hard-won lessons about purpose, loss, and reconciliation, Chris and Preston dive into what it means to be stripped of everything so God can rebuild you stronger in spirit.  Whether you’re struggling with success, faith, or finding real meaning in life, this conversation will challenge and inspire you to put Jesus at the center of it all. Stay tuned for Part 2 of this powerful and deeply personal conversation – coming out Saturday, October 18th!   Time Stamps 00:55 – Welcome to the 'Strong by Design' podcast! 01:45 – Join Coach Chris, along with our special guest, Preston Ely 04:20 – Chris and Preston share about their kids’ hobbies 06:39 – Why engage kids early with things they are passionate about 09:44 – What happened when the success ceased? 16:33 – Conscious vs Subconscious goals: Which one drives you? 21:10 – Is technology making the world a better place? 23:00 – Preston shares his biggest regret 25:18 – Learn the key to genuine reconciliation 29:00 – Should we just sin so that grace may abound? 31:01 – Chris's most vulnerable childhood moment 35:00 – Story of hope in darkest times 40:00 – How to have a real conversation with God 48:42 – What to look for in a mentor 52:27 – Discover our connection to each other through God 54:56 – Know the true value of community 56:40 – How to handle your highest highs and lowest lows 1:00:30 – Please share and leave ratings & reviews for the SBD podcast!   Resources: Comeback Kings   Connect with Preston: Instagram Connect with Chris: Instagram Use Code 'SBD25' to save 25% on Neuro-Thrive - Keep your Christmas Memories Alive! Support the show Connect w/ CriticalBench: Youtube Facebook Instagram CriticalBench.com StrongByDesignPodcast.com

    1h 2m
  8. Ep 411 The 411 on Men’s Strength & Health ft. Coach Chris Wilson

    OCT 1

    Ep 411 The 411 on Men’s Strength & Health ft. Coach Chris Wilson

    Send us a text If you’re a man who wants to stay strong, lean, and full of vitality as the years stack up, this episode is for you. Back in the day, 411 was the number you dialed to get the info you needed fast. In this special Episode 411, Coach Chris Wilson delivers the real 411 every man must know about strength, testosterone, mobility, nutrition, and mindset. This isn’t fluff. It’s the raw truth about: The 411 on testosterone — why it matters and how to keep it optimized naturallyThe 411 on strength after 40 — the smartest way to train for muscle, power, and longevityThe 411 on mobility — the secret weapon for staying pain-free and in the gameThe 411 on nutrition — simple, no-nonsense strategies that fuel energy and performanceThe 411 on mindset — building discipline, confidence, and drive that carry over into every area of lifeYou’ll walk away with the essential knowledge that men in their 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond must hear if they want to stay at the top of their game. This is the episode you’ll want to bookmark and share with a brother, because every man deserves to have the 411 on his health, strength, and future. Time Stamps 00:29 – Welcome to the 'Strong by Design' podcast! 00:53 – Join host Chris Wilson for today’s special solo episode 03:37 – What is the #1 Thing Men should be mindful of? 06:12 – High vs. Low testosterone: What you need to know 10:07 – How training changes as you age 17:03 – The 411 on Mobility and Injury Prevention 21:33 – Aches and pains: What to do 25:14 – The 411 on Nutrition for Vitality 34:29 – Mindset and Discipline essentials 38:50 – Replace ONE bad habit with ONE good habit 42:00 – Final thoughts to apply the '411 tips' in your life! 43:30 – Please share and leave ratings & reviews for the SBD podcast!   Resources: Check Out Critical T on Critical Nutrition Labs!   Connect with Coach Chris: Instagram Use Code 'SBD25' to save 25% on Neuro-Thrive - Keep your Christmas Memories Alive! Support the show Connect w/ CriticalBench: Youtube Facebook Instagram CriticalBench.com StrongByDesignPodcast.com

    46 min
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4.9
out of 5
276 Ratings

About

We believe that you are STRONG BY DESIGN. We believe you were made in God’s image to have a strong body, mind and spirit. The Strong by Design podcast is the #1 resource for strength, health, and fitness solutions in the world. Tune in for expert interviews, fitness tips, nutrition advice, free workout sheets, supplement giveaways all while being encouraged, inspired and entertained. Brought to you by Critical Bench who reaches over 30 million fans per month between our email newsletter, YouTube, Instagram and Facebook. If you're interested in being a guest on the show or doing a collaboration please send an email to strongbydesignpodcast@gmail.comNew Episodes go LIVE every week on Wednesday and sometimes bonus releases on Saturday. So let’s get ready to unlock your potential and transform your life!

Information

  • Creator
    Team CriticalBench
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2025
  • Episodes
    446
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Strong By Design Podcast
  • Show Website
    Strong By Design Podcast

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