The Judd Lienhard Podcast

Judd Lienhard

The Judd Lienhard Podcast delivers raw, unfiltered conversations with elite athletes, military leaders, top coaches, and industry disruptors, diving deep into performance, mindset, and resilience. Hosted by Judd Lienhard, a former Army Ranger, college linebacker, and Strength & Performance Coach, this show explores the watershed moments that shaped high performers—from NFL vets and Special Forces operators to authors, trainers, and entrepreneurs. Each episode unpacks real-world lessons in leadership, training, and overcoming adversity, with candid discussions on physical and mental toughness, fitness strategies, and personal growth. Whether you're looking for actionable performance insights or inspiration from those who’ve pushed past limits, this podcast is built to help you level up. 🎧 Subscribe now and start your journey toward peak performance! Want more? Follow Judd on IG & YouTube: @juddlienhard 

  1. 13H AGO

    Velocity-Based Training Explained: How to Build Strength, Speed & Power with Bryan Mann

    What if the way you’ve been training for strength is actually limiting your power? In this episode, Judd sits down with Dr. Bryan Mann — pioneer of velocity-based training (VBT), former University of Missouri strength coach, and professor of Performance Physiology at Texas A&M — to break down how measuring bar speed can completely change the way you train. Bryan coined the term “velocity-based training” and helped bring it into Division 1 athletics. But this conversation goes far beyond elite football weight rooms. Contact Bryan: If you are interested in applying for Bryan's program for the Fall of 2026, even though the portal is technically closed, they are willing to make an exception for Judd's listeners. You have until March 15th to email Bryan at the address below directly expressing interest and then Bryan will send out a link to all interested people. jbryanmann@tamu.edu https://www.instagram.com/jbryanmann/ https://knsm.tamu.edu/programs/performance-physiology-strength-conditioning-m-s/ You’ll learn: • What velocity-based training really is (and how simple it can be)  • Why maximal intent matters more than load percentage  • How stopping sets before failure can improve strength faster  • The difference between strength-speed and speed-strength  • How to find your peak power and train in the right zone  • Why bands and chains can unlock new adaptations  • How to use velocity loss for hypertrophy vs strength  • Why sprinting and jumping are essential — even for non-athletes  • The #1 predictor of staying out of a nursing home  • How power training improves gait speed in Parkinson’s patients Bryan explains that strength raises your ceiling — but velocity determines how much of that strength you can actually express. Most lifters get strong… but not powerful. And for aging populations, power might matter even more than strength. Bryan shares groundbreaking research showing that high-velocity resistance training improves habitual gait speed in Parkinson’s patients — even when they weren’t instructed to walk faster. This episode is for:  • Athletes  • Coaches  • Lifters stuck at plateaus  • Anyone who wants to train smarter  • Anyone who cares about long-term functional independence If you’ve ever wondered whether grinding to failure is really necessary… or if there’s a better way to build explosive strength — this conversation is for you. This episode is brought to you by LMNT. Optimal hydration doesn’t just mean more fluids, it means getting the right electrolyte balance. Make your purchase through my link to receive a free LMNT Sample Pack featuring the most popular flavors: drinklmnt.com/judd The Judd Lienhard Podcast delivers unfiltered conversations with elite athletes, military leaders, and top coaches, exploring performance, mindset, and resilience. From NFL vets to Special Forces operators, each episode is packed with real-world lessons on training, leadership, and pushing limits. Enjoyed this conversation? Consider sharing it with a friend. Subscribe, Rate, & Review to help us bring you more epic conversations. ⭐️🎧🔥

    1h 23m
  2. 4D AGO

    Fitness Q&A: Plyometrics for Tendon Health, Training Over 40, Sleep Optimization & Smart Recovery | #072

    In this Q&A episode of the Judd Lienhard Podcast, Judd answers listener questions covering plyometrics, tendon health, bone density, sleep hygiene, recovery, aging as an athlete, barefoot shoes, sled alternatives, and how to train intelligently over 30 and 40. The biggest takeaway? If you care about long-term joint health and resilience, frequent extensive plyometrics may be one of the most important tools you’re not using. Judd breaks down the difference between extensive vs intensive plyometrics, how aging affects your ability to tolerate high-impact work, and why incline sprints, stair jumps, sled drags, and split jumps can be smarter options as you get older. He also dives into practical strategies for: Improving sleep hygiene and bedtime routinesTraining effectively when you can’t get ideal sleep (new parents, busy professionals)Using supplements like magnesium, GABA, and creatine strategicallyChoosing barefoot shoes for foot healthReplacing sled work with heavy carries or hill workManaging slight scoliosis and muscular imbalancesHandling training partners who constantly critique your formCalorie intake for performance and dietingAdapting your mindset as you age and accumulate injuriesJudd also shares personal reflections on training in his 40s — including dealing with joint wear, previous injuries, and the mental shift required to stay productive without chasing what your body no longer tolerates well. If you’re an athlete over 30, a lifter focused on longevity, or someone who wants to build a body that lasts decades — this episode delivers practical, no-nonsense advice. Key Topics Covered: Why plyometrics improve tendon strength and bone densityHow often to do plyometrics over 30Extensive vs intensive jumpsSleep quality vs sleep quantityRecovery strategies when life limits your sleepBarefoot shoe recommendationsSled alternatives for conditioningTraining around structural imbalancesThe psychology of aging as a lifterThis episode is brought to you by LMNT. Optimal hydration doesn’t just mean more fluids, it means getting the right electrolyte balance. Make your purchase through my link to receive a free LMNT Sample Pack featuring the most popular flavors: drinklmnt.com/judd The Judd Lienhard Podcast delivers unfiltered conversations with elite athletes, military leaders, and top coaches, exploring performance, mindset, and resilience. From NFL vets to Special Forces operators, each episode is packed with real-world lessons on training, leadership, and pushing limits. Enjoyed this conversation? Consider sharing it with a friend. Subscribe, Rate, & Review to help us bring you more epic conversations. ⭐️🎧🔥

    22 min
  3. 5D AGO

    Fitness Q&A: Turkish Getups, Training to Failure, HIIT Myths, Monster Glutes & Smart Programming | #071

    In this Q&A episode of the Judd Lienhard Podcast, Judd answers listener questions covering strength training, functional fitness, workout programming, and some of the most debated topics in the gym world. Judd breaks down why the Turkish getup may be the single most valuable exercise for overall health and athleticism, explains whether compound lifts are enough on their own, and shares how to structure training blocks when you’re chasing multiple goals like strength, power, speed, and endurance. This episode also dives into the resurgence of low-volume high-intensity training (HIT), when it can actually be useful, and why long-term progress still requires smart volume and consistency. Other topics include training to failure, Jefferson curls, Olympic cleans, glute development (yes, even for men), and whether decline bench deserves a spot in your program. If you want practical, science-backed training advice without the noise, this one covers it all. In This Episode, Judd Covers: Why Turkish getups are unmatched for functional strengthCompound lifts vs isolation work (the 80/20 rule)How to organize strength, power, and conditioning togetherThe truth about low-volume high-intensity training (HIT)What to do when you miss your rep target mid-setHow men can build monster glutes with smarter trainingJefferson curls: benefits, risks, and proper progressionOlympic cleans: how much is strength vs skillWhy training to failure isn’t necessary (and when it is)Decline bench press for full chest development This episode is brought to you by LMNT. Optimal hydration doesn’t just mean more fluids, it means getting the right electrolyte balance. Make your purchase through my link to receive a free LMNT Sample Pack featuring the most popular flavors: drinklmnt.com/judd The Judd Lienhard Podcast delivers unfiltered conversations with elite athletes, military leaders, and top coaches, exploring performance, mindset, and resilience. From NFL vets to Special Forces operators, each episode is packed with real-world lessons on training, leadership, and pushing limits. Enjoyed this conversation? Consider sharing it with a friend. Subscribe, Rate, & Review to help us bring you more epic conversations. ⭐️🎧🔥

    27 min
  4. FEB 10

    Endurance, Recovery, and Real MMA Conditioning with Bo Sandoval | #070

    In this episode of the Judd Lienhard Podcast, Judd sits down with Bo Sandoval, former Director of Strength & Conditioning at the UFC Performance Institute and current professor at Texas A&M, to unpack how elite fighters actually train — and why most athletes misunderstand conditioning, endurance, and recovery. Bo has worked with world champions, Olympic athletes, and elite MMA fighters across every weight class. Drawing from years inside the UFC Performance Institute, he explains why fighters often gas out, how poor energy system development limits performance, and why doing more training is often the fastest way to get worse. This conversation breaks down the real science and application behind: Why most fighters don’t follow a true year-long training planThe role of general physical preparation (GPP) in combat sportsHow aerobic capacity impacts recovery between roundsMetabolic flexibility and why many athletes burn carbs at restZone 2 vs zone 3 vs lactate threshold trainingWhy lactic acid isn’t the enemyConditioning differences between strikers and grapplersStrength training mistakes common in MMAHow elite performance teams integrate coaches, PTs, and sports scienceLessons fighters can teach everyday athletes about durability and longevityBo also shares insights on athlete buy-in, coaching communication, and why fundamentals — not flashy workouts — are what separate elite performers from burned-out athletes. Whether you’re a fighter, coach, strength professional, or just someone trying to train smarter and recover better, this episode delivers practical insights you can actually apply. FOLLOW BO https://www.instagram.com/bo.sandoval/ This episode is brought to you by LMNT. Optimal hydration doesn’t just mean more fluids, it means getting the right electrolyte balance. Make your purchase through my link to receive a free LMNT Sample Pack featuring the most popular flavors: drinklmnt.com/judd The Judd Lienhard Podcast delivers unfiltered conversations with elite athletes, military leaders, and top coaches, exploring performance, mindset, and resilience. From NFL vets to Special Forces operators, each episode is packed with real-world lessons on training, leadership, and pushing limits. Enjoyed this conversation? Consider sharing it with a friend. Subscribe, Rate, & Review to help us bring you more epic conversations. ⭐️🎧🔥

    58 min
  5. FEB 5

    Build Discipline Without Motivation (Training, Recovery & Injury Resilience) | #069

    In this Q&A episode of The Judd Lienhard Podcast, Judd answers listener questions on discipline, training consistency, injury recovery, nutrition timing, supplements, sauna use, and long-term health. Judd breaks down why motivation is unreliable — and how real discipline is built through simple systems, preparation, and understanding how the body actually adapts. From getting out of bed when the alarm goes off, to rebuilding training after injury, to knowing when to train around pain instead of pushing through it, this episode delivers practical, experience-driven advice. Topics covered include how Judd structures his supplements, why he stacks calories later in the day, whether fasted training actually matters, how rebounder work supports joint health, and how to progressively rebuild strength after long layoffs. Judd also shares his personal health and training priorities moving forward, with a strong emphasis on longevity, tissue health, and sustainability. This episode is for anyone struggling with consistency, coming back from injury, or looking to train smarter for the long run — without relying on hype or short-term motivation. This episode is brought to you by LMNT. Optimal hydration doesn’t just mean more fluids, it means getting the right electrolyte balance. Make your purchase through my link to receive a free LMNT Sample Pack featuring the most popular flavors: drinklmnt.com/judd The Judd Lienhard Podcast delivers unfiltered conversations with elite athletes, military leaders, and top coaches, exploring performance, mindset, and resilience. From NFL vets to Special Forces operators, each episode is packed with real-world lessons on training, leadership, and pushing limits. Enjoyed this conversation? Consider sharing it with a friend. Subscribe, Rate, & Review to help us bring you more epic conversations. ⭐️🎧🔥

    26 min
  6. FEB 3

    Best Foods & Supplements for Leaning Out | #068

    In this solo episode of the Judd Lienhard Podcast, Judd breaks down one of the most controversial and misunderstood topics in fitness: the best foods and supplements for getting lean and staying lean long-term. While many people obsess over calorie counting, Judd explains why sustainable fat loss is about much more than just eating less. The real key is choosing foods that keep you full, fight cravings, support gut health, reduce inflammation, and help you maintain muscle while leaning out. This episode is packed with practical nutrition strategies that don’t require extreme dieting, low-carb rules, or constant food tracking — just simple principles that work. In this episode, Judd covers: Why losing weight is different from staying leanThe best foods for fullness: water, protein, and fiberWhy dehydrated carbs like chips and crackers make dieting harderHow to satisfy sweet cravings with fruit and yogurtComfort foods like soups, stews, and chili that actually help fat lossThe overlooked role of inflammation in body compositionGut health foods like fermented vegetables and fiberJudd’s go-to supplements for leaning out, including creatine and omega-3sSleep supplements that improve fat loss resultsEnergy and recovery support with magnesium, taurine, and B vitaminsWhether you’re trying to get lean for the first time or stay lean year-round, this episode provides a realistic framework you can apply immediately. Checkout Judd's Training App & Merch: JuddLienhard.com This episode is brought to you by LMNT. Optimal hydration doesn’t just mean more fluids, it means getting the right electrolyte balance. Make your purchase through my link to receive a free LMNT Sample Pack featuring the most popular flavors: drinklmnt.com/judd The Judd Lienhard Podcast delivers unfiltered conversations with elite athletes, military leaders, and top coaches, exploring performance, mindset, and resilience. From NFL vets to Special Forces operators, each episode is packed with real-world lessons on training, leadership, and pushing limits. Enjoyed this conversation? Consider sharing it with a friend. Subscribe, Rate, & Review to help us bring you more epic conversations. ⭐️🎧🔥

    47 min
  7. JAN 29

    Fitness Q&A: Supplements, Cardio Programming, Dead Hang Time, and Smarter Training | #067

    In this week’s Q&A, Judd answers a wide range of listener training questions: from dead hang time and grip strength to cardio structure, hypertrophy programming, and the supplements that actually matter. Judd breaks down why fitness doesn’t need to be overly complicated, how consistency beats perfection, and how to train effectively even with a demanding schedule. He also shares practical advice on conditioning, muscle gain without excessive bulking, and how to extend training blocks while still making progress. Whether you’re focused on longevity, strength, performance, or simply getting healthier, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways. Topics Covered Dead hang time, grip strength, and long-term healthHow to structure training with long work hours, commuting, and kidsThe best way to approach conditioning with only 3 hours per weekWhat to do after completing Mass Method Hypertrophy in the appJudd’s cardio framework: Zone 2, threshold/VO2 max, anaerobic powerThoughts on the popular 80/20 cardio training methodBulgarian split squat loading: contralateral vs ipsilateral benefitsBand training safety and preventing bands from snappingDo you need a calorie surplus to gain muscle without “bulking”?The best supplements for strength, performance, and general healthExtending training blocks and adding more running without losing progress⸻ 💪 Train With Judd Get access to Judd’s full training system, including strength, speed, mobility, and conditioning programs — all built for real people with real lives. 👉 Start your 7-day free trial: JuddLienhard.com ⸻ ⭐ Support the Show If you enjoy these Q&A episodes, please follow, rate, and review The Judd Lienhard Podcast on Apple Podcasts. It helps the show grow and reach more people who want to train smarter. This episode is brought to you by LMNT. Optimal hydration doesn’t just mean more fluids, it means getting the right electrolyte balance. Make your purchase through my link to receive a free LMNT Sample Pack featuring the most popular flavors: drinklmnt.com/judd The Judd Lienhard Podcast delivers unfiltered conversations with elite athletes, military leaders, and top coaches, exploring performance, mindset, and resilience. From NFL vets to Special Forces operators, each episode is packed with real-world lessons on training, leadership, and pushing limits. Enjoyed this conversation? Consider sharing it with a friend. Subscribe, Rate, & Review to help us bring you more epic conversations. ⭐️🎧🔥

    25 min
  8. JAN 27

    Lower Body Exercises Ranked: S–F Tier for Real-World Function & Longevity | #066

    In this solo episode of The Judd Lienhard Podcast, Judd ranks common lower body exercises from S–F tier based on real-world functionality, injury risk, and long-term return on investment for the general population. This is not a bodybuilding or max-strength ranking. Instead, Judd breaks down which upper body movements actually carry over to daily life, athletic durability, and longevity — and which popular lifts may be overrated or unnecessarily risky for most people. You’ll hear Judd explain: Why barbell back squats aren’t the “king” for most liftersWhy conventional deadlifts quickly become low-return for experienced traineesWhy Bulgarian split squats, sled pushes, and step-ups dominate for real-world strengthHow pelvic movement, foot strength, and lower-leg development are usually ignoredWhy leg press machines and calf raises often waste time (or worse)Which exercises actually protect knees, hips, and backs long-termThis episode is especially valuable if you: Train for longevity, not just numbersWant strong legs without beating up your jointsFeel stuck doing the same “classic” lifts without progressCoach clients or athletes and need better exercise selectionIf you care about training smarter, staying healthy, and building strength that actually carries over to life, this episode will change how you think about upper body exercise selection. Checkout Judd's Training App & Merch: JuddLienhard.com This episode is brought to you by LMNT. Optimal hydration doesn’t just mean more fluids, it means getting the right electrolyte balance. Make your purchase through my link to receive a free LMNT Sample Pack featuring the most popular flavors: drinklmnt.com/judd The Judd Lienhard Podcast delivers unfiltered conversations with elite athletes, military leaders, and top coaches, exploring performance, mindset, and resilience. From NFL vets to Special Forces operators, each episode is packed with real-world lessons on training, leadership, and pushing limits. Enjoyed this conversation? Consider sharing it with a friend. Subscribe, Rate, & Review to help us bring you more epic conversations. ⭐️🎧🔥

    56 min
4.9
out of 5
63 Ratings

About

The Judd Lienhard Podcast delivers raw, unfiltered conversations with elite athletes, military leaders, top coaches, and industry disruptors, diving deep into performance, mindset, and resilience. Hosted by Judd Lienhard, a former Army Ranger, college linebacker, and Strength & Performance Coach, this show explores the watershed moments that shaped high performers—from NFL vets and Special Forces operators to authors, trainers, and entrepreneurs. Each episode unpacks real-world lessons in leadership, training, and overcoming adversity, with candid discussions on physical and mental toughness, fitness strategies, and personal growth. Whether you're looking for actionable performance insights or inspiration from those who’ve pushed past limits, this podcast is built to help you level up. 🎧 Subscribe now and start your journey toward peak performance! Want more? Follow Judd on IG & YouTube: @juddlienhard 

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