The Barbell Therapy & Performance Podcast

Dr. Brett Scott
  • 4.6 (10)
  • FITNESS
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Doctor of Physical Therapy and strength coach Brett Scott sits down with the top experts in the fields of rehab, fitness, and performance to give listeners the latest and most valuable information to keep you at the top of your game. Whether you are a coach, clinician, or fitness junkie this podcast is for you.

  1. 15H AGO

    What Makes Someone Run 100 Miles? The Mind, Body, and Madness of Ultramarathon Racing

    Dr. Brett Scott sits down with pro ultrarunner Ryan Montgomery to explore the mindset, physiology, fueling strategy, and extreme demands behind racing 100 miles competitively. Takeaways Ryan Montgomery is a professional ultra marathon runner. His journey into ultra running began with a high school marathon challenge. Key experiences shaped his understanding of mental and physical limits. Ultra running is seen as a playground for mental performance. Curiosity drives Ryan's approach to ultra running. Post-race recovery involves significant physical and hormonal challenges. Nutrition strategies during races often include unconventional choices like soda. Aid station efficiency is critical for competitive performance. Self-regulation of pace is essential in ultra running. Fear can negatively impact performance in endurance sports. Embracing challenges leads to better performance. Mental fortitude is key in ultra running. Trusting your body can unlock hidden potential. Training specificity is crucial for race success. Heat adaptation improves performance in extreme conditions. Nutrition should be familiar and simple before races. Gut health plays a significant role in athletic performance. Tracking recovery can enhance training outcomes. Gradual progression in distance is important for new runners. All shoes are generally fine; comfort is key. Chapters 00:00- Introduction to Ultra Running and Ryan Montgomery 01:36- Catalysts for Becoming an Ultra Runner 05:16- First Experiences with 100-Mile Races 06:38- The Draw of Ultra Running 10:15- The Primal Connection to Running 13:30- Post-Race Recovery and Hormonal Effects 16:45- Nutrition Strategies During Races 20:28- Aid Station Efficiency and Strategy 26:02- Pacing and Self-Regulation in Ultra Running 30:22- Performance Metrics and Competitive Landscape 32:07- Fear and Mental Training in Ultra Running 33:03- Embracing Challenges in Ultra Running 35:23- Mental Fortitude and Trusting Your Body 39:15- Training Specificity and Heat Adaptation 45:13- Nutrition Strategies for Race Day 51:13- Gut Health and Performance 52:21- Tracking Progress and Recovery 59:24- Encouragement for Aspiring Ultra Runners

    1h 3m

  2. FEB 4

    From Life Support to Strength: Surviving HLH, Vision Loss, and the Fight to Come Back Stronger

    Dr. Brett Scott sits down with physiotherapist and strength coach Jared Maynard to unpack surviving a near-fatal autoimmune condition, navigating progressive vision loss, and rebuilding strength, purpose, and leadership from the ground up. Takeaways Jared's journey began with a sudden illness that escalated quickly. He experienced severe symptoms leading to hospitalization. The diagnosis of HLH was a turning point in his health crisis. Life support was a critical phase in his recovery process. Jared's physical fitness prior to illness played a crucial role in his survival. Rehabilitation involved relearning basic physical functions. Support from family and friends was vital during his recovery. Jared returned to powerlifting, achieving personal records after recovery. His experience highlights the importance of resilience and determination. Jared continues to face challenges with vision loss post-recovery. Choroideremia affects one in a hundred thousand people, primarily men. Night blindness is often the first symptom of choroideremia. The diagnosis of legal blindness can come unexpectedly and disrupt life plans. Adapting to vision loss involves both practical changes and emotional processing. Public perception of blindness can lead to misunderstandings and assumptions. Using assistive technology, like a white cane, can be emotionally heavy. Empathy from others who have faced similar struggles can provide comfort. Blindness is not a binary condition; it exists on a spectrum. The journey of adapting to a disability is ongoing and complex. Maintaining hope and purpose is crucial in the face of chronic illness. Pain is subjective and cannot be judged by others. Empathy is crucial in supporting those who are suffering. Sitting with someone in their pain can be more helpful than offering solutions. Misdiagnosis in healthcare can lead to prolonged suffering. Life perspectives change significantly after experiencing near-death situations. Memento Mori serves as a reminder to live fully and appreciate life. The mundane aspects of life can distract from what truly matters. Memories and experiences are invaluable, even if they come with pain. Singing and creative expression can help process emotions. It's important to enjoy life while we have it. Chapters 00:00- Introduction to Jared's Journey 01:08- The Onset of Illness 03:46- The Hospitalization Experience 10:01- Diagnosis and Initial Treatment 12:11- Life Support and the Fight for Survival 17:58- The Road to Recovery 24:05- Rehabilitation and Rebuilding Strength 30:47- Returning to Powerlifting and Life After Illness 33:34- Ongoing Challenges and Future Outlook 34:00- Understanding Choroideremia: A Personal Journey 39:04- Navigating Life with Vision Loss 44:14- The Emotional Toll of Adapting to Blindness 48:58- Facing Misunderstandings and Assumptions 56:47- The Courage to Be Seen and Fight Back 01:05:08- Understanding Pain and Empathy 01:07:00- The Importance of Sitting in Suffering 01:09:27- Navigating Misdiagnosis and Healthcare Challenges 01:11:38- Life Perspectives and the Reality of Mortality 01:15:20- Memento Mori: Living with Awareness 01:19:10- Reflections on Life After Near-Death Experiences 01:23:28- The Value of Memories and Experiences

    1h 28m

  3. JAN 27

    The Hidden Cost of Entrepreneurship: Burnout, Stress, and the Psychology Behind High Performance

    Entrepreneurship looks glamorous online, but Dr. Brett Scott and psychologist/business coach Lauren DiCredico break down the real cost—burnout, overthinking, and relationship strain—and how high performers can actually manage it. Takeaways: Entrepreneurship is often glamorized but comes with hidden struggles. Mindset issues can lead to overthinking and burnout. Coaching can be more effective for high performers than traditional therapy. Identifying the real problems often requires an objective perspective. Personal issues often reflect in business challenges. Burnout manifests as emotional exhaustion and lack of motivation. Recognizing early signs of burnout is crucial for recovery. Self-care is essential for maintaining business performance. Mindset pressures can lead to unnecessary stress and burnout. Not all entrepreneurs aspire to build million-dollar businesses. I was hesitant to even call myself a mindset coach. I want to help you learn how to solve them. It's really just a rinse and repeat. I already know your story. You need to check in. It's all about communication. You have to set that early. It's not about the fight, it's about the recovery. There's a lot of people who have problems. You have to learn those skills. Chapters 00:00- The Glamorization of Entrepreneurship 09:02- Identifying the Real Problems 20:06- Recognizing Signs of Burnout 26:15- Mindset and the Pressure to Perform 32:01- The Importance of Self-Solving 38:01- Compartmentalization in Work and Life 44:26- Stress Tolerance in Entrepreneurs

    57 min

  4. JAN 22

    Rehab Isn’t “Exercise Light” — It’s Strength Training Done Right

    Dr. Brett Scott and Dr. Katie Dabrowski break down why real rehab should look like smart strength training—simple, heavy, progressive, and built to make you more resilient, not fragile. Takeaways Rehab should look very similar to training. Exercise is often underdosed and overcomplicated in rehab. Strength training is crucial for improving quality of life. Women are increasingly recognizing the importance of strength training. Pain is a normal part of being human and should not be over-medicalized. Healthcare professionals need to collaborate rather than compete. The only exercise that matters is the one that clients will actually do. Understanding pain requires a holistic approach that includes both physical and psychological factors. Healthcare providers should be curious and ask more questions to improve patient care. Creating long-term relationships with clients involves setting clear expectations and goals. Chapters 00:00- Introduction and Background 01:36- The Hybrid Model of Rehab and Training 05:07- The Importance of Strength in Rehab 09:21- Changing Perspectives on Strength Training 12:24- The Role of Physicians in Rehab 14:47- Fear of Inactivity vs. Fear of Exercise 16:52- Understanding Pain and Movement 20:31- Navigating Injuries and Recovery 25:17- The Complexity of Pain Science 27:26- Understanding Pain and Functionality 29:55- The Importance of Individualized Care 32:41- Personal Experience and Patient Empathy 36:15- The Role of Curiosity in Patient Care 39:00- Collaboration in Healthcare 42:36- Bridging the Gap Between PTs and Trainers 46:33- Navigating Scope and Collaboration in Health Professions 50:08- Creating Long-Term Client Relationships

    56 min

  5. JAN 18

    The Psychology of Coaching: Motivation, Habit Change, and Preventing Burnout

    Dr. Brett Scott talks with Dr. Lisa Lewis about psychology of training, motivational interviewing, and setting boundaries to stay energized as a coach. Takeaways Trainers often lack training in communication and psychology. Understanding client limitations is crucial for effective coaching. Motivational interviewing helps clients open up about their challenges. Heart rate variability can provide insights into emotional well-being. Competing demands can hinder clients' fitness goals. The stages of change model is essential for guiding clients. Internal motivation is more sustainable than external rewards. Trainers should align fitness goals with clients' personal values. Clients need encouragement during the action stage of change. Relapse is a common part of the behavior change process. Intrinsic motivation is the highest level of motivation. Gamification can make fitness routines more enjoyable. Coaches need to understand individual client preferences. Self-sabotage is a common barrier to fitness success. Honesty in coaching fosters better client relationships. Resistance and negativity are natural in the coaching process. Burnout is prevalent in the fitness industry. Irritability can be a sign of burnout. Self-care is crucial for fitness professionals. Setting boundaries with clients is essential for sustainability. Chapters 00:00- Introduction to Motivation and Psychology in Fitness 03:10- Identifying Gaps in Fitness Training 06:00- Understanding Client Limitations and Communication 08:52- The Role of Motivational Interviewing 11:53- Heart Rate Variability and Emotional Well-being 15:08- Competing Demands in Client Goals 17:54- Stages of Change in Client Progress 21:03- Motivation: Internal vs. External 24:01- Developing Internal Motivation 28:21- The Power of Intrinsic Motivation 29:21- Gamification in Fitness: Making Exercise Fun 32:10- Understanding Client Barriers to Success 34:43- The Role of Honesty in Coaching Relationships 40:16- Navigating Resistance and Negativity in Coaching 44:35- Preventing Burnout in Fitness Professionals

    54 min

  6. 12/23/2025

    Shockwave Therapy Explained: Dr. Keith Rode on Healing Faster Without Surgery

    Dr. Brett Scott sits down in-person with Dr. Keith Rode to break down shockwave therapy—how it “unsticks” chronic pain, speeds acute injury recovery, and why it’s changing what’s possible in rehab. Takeaways Shockwave therapy can help patients who have not responded to traditional treatments. The technology can significantly reduce recovery time for acute injuries. Shockwave therapy stimulates a healthy inflammatory response to promote healing. It has a high success rate for conditions like plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinopathy. EMTT is a newer technology that complements shockwave therapy. Both shockwave and EMTT can enhance athletic performance and recovery. The effectiveness of shockwave therapy is supported by a growing body of research. There is a need for regulation in the use of shockwave therapy devices. The technology is non-invasive with minimal side effects. Shockwave therapy is being explored for various conditions beyond musculoskeletal issues. The effectiveness of shockwave therapy relies on proper application and understanding. Many practitioners misuse shockwave therapy, leading to poor patient outcomes. Real-life patient transformations showcase the potential of shockwave therapy. Education and training are crucial for practitioners using shockwave technology. Shockwave therapy can help patients avoid surgeries and improve their quality of life. The technology has revolutionized Brett's practice and patient care. Proper technique and knowledge of the technology are essential for success. Patients often experience significant improvements in strength and mobility after treatment. The future of shockwave therapy looks promising for various medical conditions. Brett has helped over 300 patients avoid surgery through shockwave therapy. Chapters 00:00- Introduction to Shockwave Therapy and Its Origins 07:13- Mechanisms and Benefits of Shockwave Therapy 14:54- Applications and Effectiveness of Shockwave Therapy 22:20- Emerging Technologies: EMTT and Its Synergy with Shockwave 30:04- The Future of Shockwave Therapy and Its Regulation 35:31- Understanding Shockwave Therapy's Effectiveness 41:44- Real-Life Transformations with Shockwave Therapy 47:58- The Importance of Proper Application and Technique 54:19- The Future of Shockwave Therapy and Its Applications

    1h 9m

  7. 12/19/2025

    Advanced Maternal Age: Fertility, Fitness, and the Truth About Having Kids Later in Life

    A raw, science-backed conversation on advanced maternal age, fertility myths, and why women deserve better information—not fear—when deciding if and when to have kids. Takeaways: Dr. Danielle Day reflects on her journey to motherhood at 47. She emphasizes the importance of health and wellness in advanced maternal age. Fertility challenges are common for women over 40, despite being healthy. Misconceptions about risks associated with age in pregnancy persist. Healthcare protocols often treat older mothers as high-risk without considering individual health. Fitness and nutrition play a crucial role in pregnancy and postpartum recovery. Breastfeeding can be challenging, especially for older mothers. Community support is vital for older parents navigating parenthood. The term 'geriatric pregnancy' is outdated and misleading. Having children later in life can lead to increased motivation for self-care and longevity. Family building is evolving with different lenses. Biology does not define family; community does. Choosing the donor path can be a practical decision. Understanding the donor egg process is crucial. Genetic testing can provide insights but is not foolproof. Age significantly impacts fertility and reproductive options. Exercise plays a vital role in fertility and pregnancy health. Nutrition is often overlooked in prenatal care. Strength training is essential for long-term health. Maintaining personal goals is important for mothers. Chapters: 00:00- Introduction to Geriatric Pregnancy 02:49- Personal Journey: From Reluctance to Parenthood 06:01- Health and Wellness Considerations 09:14- Understanding Fertility and Age 12:07- The Impact of Lifestyle on Fertility 15:00- Navigating Medical Protocols and Guidelines 18:12- Women's Health and Fertility Issues 20:56- The Role of Healthcare Providers 24:04- Expectations vs. Reality in IVF 27:08- Conclusion and Final Thoughts 35:25- Embracing Fitness During Pregnancy 38:11- The Postpartum Journey: Recovery and Realities 40:33- Breastfeeding Challenges and Expectations 46:02- Advanced Maternal Age: Myths and Realities 54:20- Navigating Donor Conception: A Personal Journey 01:01:16- The Importance of Communication in Family Dynamics 01:04:15- Understanding Egg Freezing and IVF Processes 01:10:51- Understanding IVF and Egg Donation 01:15:36- Genetic Testing and Pregnancy Risks 01:16:05- The Role of Exercise in Fertility 01:19:18- Gestational Diabetes and Long-term Health 01:22:03- The Impact of Age and Lifestyle on Pregnancy 01:26:01- Nutrition and Healthcare Gaps 01:30:16- Personal Health and Pregnancy Experiences 01:35:55- Empowerment Through Strength Training 01:39:13- Innovations in Breastfeeding Solutions 01:42:55- Mindset and Personal Growth

    1h 46m

  8. 12/16/2025

    Good Training = Better Rehab (Why Most PT Doesn’t Work)

    Dr. Brett Scott welcomes Dr. Ryan Chow of Reload Physical Therapy NYC to the Barbell Therapy Podcast to dive into modern rehab, stress and pain, and why smart training plus sustainable cardio is the real key to long-term health. Takeaways: Physical therapy should blend training and rehabilitation. Individualized treatment plans are crucial for effective recovery. Stress significantly impacts pain and recovery outcomes. Understanding patient beliefs can enhance treatment effectiveness. Nutrition plays a vital role in athletic performance and recovery. Zone 2 training is essential for overall health and recovery. Physical therapists often act as primary care providers for patients. The medical system can be challenging for patients to navigate. Pain management requires a nuanced understanding of individual experiences. Building trust with patients is essential for effective treatment. Chapters 00:00- Introduction to Physical Therapy and Coaching 02:16- The Journey from Trainer to Physical Therapist 05:23- Challenges in Traditional Physical Therapy 10:50- Understanding Patient Stories and Individual Needs 13:37- Testing Beliefs and Theories in Rehabilitation 18:01- The Connection Between Stress and Pain 20:26- Statistics on Pain and Recovery 25:26- The Role of Physical Therapists in Patient Care 30:20- Navigating the Healthcare System 35:04- The Importance of Listening and Understanding Patients 39:27- Efficiency in Rehabilitation and Patient Care 39:56- Understanding Patient Perspectives 42:01- The Importance of Zone Two Cardio 44:51- The Evolution of Cardio Training 48:58- Personal Experiences with Cardio and Strength Training 51:50- The Psychology of Running and Pain Management 58:01- Differentiating Helpful and Hurtful Pain 01:00:52- Managing High-Volume Training 01:05:04- The Complexity of Health and Fitness 01:09:01- The Multi-Dimensional Approach to Health

    1h 12m
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Ratings & Reviews

4.6
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

Doctor of Physical Therapy and strength coach Brett Scott sits down with the top experts in the fields of rehab, fitness, and performance to give listeners the latest and most valuable information to keep you at the top of your game. Whether you are a coach, clinician, or fitness junkie this podcast is for you.

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