CVASPS The Podcast

Central VA Sport Performance
  • 4.7 (53)
  • 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. 2d ago

    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

  2. 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

  3. 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

  4. 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

  5. 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

  6. Apr 13

    Season 6 Episode 19-Bri Brown- Methods May Change But Principles Always Direct You

    In this episode, Bri Brown shares her unique journey from being a soccer player to becoming a basketball strength coach, and the lessons she's learned along the way. We delve into the importance of foundational training principles, how sports science and data influence her coaching, and strategies to educate athletes about the "why" behind their training.Key Topics:   Bri Brown's transition from soccer to basketball coaching and her career trajectory (Southern Utah University, Utah State, Houston, Pittsburgh, Miami)  The impact of soccer background on basketball strength and conditioning—timing, angles, and spatial awareness  How general movement principles translate across different sports and athlete populations  The influence of polyquin systems and the emphasis on general movements and system-based training  The importance of establishing core training principles and adapting them over time  Strategies for educating athletes on the "why" behind training methods and fostering trust and understanding  The role of relationship-building and communication in effective coaching  Reflection on evolution in coaching approaches—balancing foundational principles with nuanced adjustments  Insights into the use of data, sports science, and return-to-play strategies in athlete development  The value of inquisitiveness among female athletes and encouraging questions for continuous improvement

    31 min

  7. Apr 6

    Season 6 Episode 18- Jeff Oliver: The Adaptation Can’t Take Place Without Effort

    In this episode, Jeff Oliver shares his philosophy on coaching, athlete development, and effective communication, offering insights rooted in over 35 years of experience. Whether you're a seasoned coach or just starting out, Jeff's approach emphasizes intentionality, adaptability, and building meaningful relationships. We also get the podcast debut of Bubba, our bulldog beagle mix, sorry for that. Main Topics: The importance of execution and accountability in training programs How to foster communication and confidence in athletes and interns Building flexible training plans that adapt to athlete needs and program constraints The significance of intent and effort over complex exercises Evolving as a coach through mentorship, collaboration, and self-awareness Crafting a shared understanding of key concepts like "fit" in training Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction and Jeff Oliver's coaching philosophy02:10 - The "needle mover": alignment and intensity in training04:06 - Evolving coaching approaches for better execution06:43 - Developing athlete confidence through voice and presence08:18 - The role of accountability and team culture09:28 - Building relationships with sport coaches for program success11:19 - Flexibility in program design and working within coaches' biases13:44 - Redefining "fit": aligning training with athlete and coach goals15:20 - The importance of soft skills, vulnerability, and program ownership16:43 - Lessons learned from mentorship and innovation in training20:05 - Encouraging curiosity and fresh perspectives in young coaches22:08 - Creative problem-solving during multiple-team training sessions24:25 - Strategies to instill intent and focus in young athletes27:12 - The art of teaching effort and quality over complexity28:42 - The value of genuine relationships and long-term athlete development30:56 - Who would Jeff like to hear from? A look into leadership and influence in sports32:23 - Insights into successful program turnarounds and leadership lessons34:17 - Closing thoughts and future connections Special Note: Always focus on intent and effort—these are the core drivers behind athlete performance and effective coaching. Jeff's experience underscores that adaptability, relationship-building, and clarity in purpose lead to sustainable success in sports training.

    34 min

  8. Mar 30

    Season 6 Episode 17- Anthony Cockrill- Training is training, the sport is the application

    This episode features a deep dive into athletic development, focusing on volleyball training, physical progression, and the importance of technical skill. Jay DeMayo sits down with Anthony Cockrell from SMU to explore how targeted training impacts performance and how coaches can leverage biomechanics and resourcefulness to optimize athlete potential. Key Topics Anthony Cockrill’s journey from basketball to volleyball and the impact of resourceful coaching The value of managing multiple teams at the collegiate level for skill and leadership development The importance of interpersonal skills in coaching and resource management Differences in physical versus technical skill development across sports The significance of genetics and biomechanics in training high jump and volleyball athletes Progression and application of jump height training through biomechanics and technical skill How movement efficiency and passive structures like the stretch shortening cycle influence performance Strategies for optimizing training with limited resources and short communication windows with staff Recognizing skill gaps versus physical talent in jump performance assessments The macro growth of volleyball as a sport and its implications for training investment Time Stamps 00:00 - Intro and overview of the episode’s focus on athletic development and volleyball-specific training 00:45 - Anthony’s background, career transition from basketball to volleyball, and coaching philosophy01:42 - Managing multiple teams at UMBC and the value of diverse coaching experiences04:54 - From managing six teams to specialized roles; key takeaway on interpersonal skills and quick communication05:34 - Building teams and programming based on real-world experience; the influence on current coaching practices06:52 - The importance of communication skills and resourcefulness in coaching success07:50 - How efficiency in communication and resource use boosts coaching influence08:48 - Recognizing skill gaps through assessments; physical ability vs. technical proficiency in jump performance10:55 - Focus on physical versus technical training in volleyball and how that affects performance outcomes12:36 - The significance of physical attributes in volleyball, recruiting, and game strategy14:50 - Shifting impact in basketball versus volleyball; quantifying physical and skill impacts17:18 - The macro growth of volleyball and why investing in physical and technical development is crucial17:35 - Deep dive into jump height progression, biomechanics, and training development19:06 - Applying biomechanics, strength deficits, and the influence of genetics in athletic potential21:03 - The role of technical skill and efficiency in jumping and movement; lessons from track and field22:29 - Genetics and physical ceilings—especially relevant for female athletes—and recruiting strategies23:46 - Integrating physical and technical training for superior jumping performance26:56 - The importance of passive structures and movement efficiency over raw effort for sustained performance28:37 - Distinguishing technical from physical issues in jump performance, especially approach vs. vertical30:25 - Wrap-up, inspiration for future guests, and final appreciation Resources & Links Deep Dive into Biomechanics by Tim Karlen (replace with actual link) Bishop’s training methods at Houston Natalia Vorkoschansky’s work in jumping spectrum SMU Athletics University of Miami Athletic Training

    33 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
    668
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Central VA Sport Performance
  • Show Website
    CVASPS The Podcast

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