New Wave Certified

John Larkin

New Wave Certified brings you inside the minds of elite athletes, top trainers, and entrepreneurs who are changing the game in sports and business. Athlete Interviews — Real conversations with competitors chasing greatness. Hear their journeys, lessons, setbacks, and wins—direct from the source. Training — Break down the science of performance. Learn how to move faster, train smarter, recover better, and master your craft with actionable insights from the experts. Entrepreneurship & Business — Explore the mindset and moves behind building a brand, a business, and a legacy.

  1. Jul 1

    The New Wave Standard: Building Champions. Building Coaches. Building the Future. | NWC EP. 24

    New Wave Performance is entering a new era.John opens Episode 24 by celebrating the incredible accomplishments of New Wave athletes, including national champion Cyrus Courtney, and shares what these victories say about the work being done every day inside the facility.From there, John provides exciting updates on the future of New Wave Performance, including hiring the company's first employee, installing new turf, expanding the athlete experience, and continuing to raise the standard for everyone who walks through the doors.You'll also hear John's blueprint for helping athletes get recruited and play at the next level, emphasizing that recruiting isn't just about talent—it's about preparation, consistency, and doing the fundamentals better than everyone else.In the second half of the episode, John sits down with New Wave's newest coach, Ishara "Ish" Kalolero. Together they discuss why Ish earned the position over candidates with more experience on paper, what he's learned during his first six weeks coaching athletes, and why culture, character, and a willingness to learn matter just as much as a résumé.The conversation wraps up by discussing New Wave's NFL FLAG Football League sponsorship, the importance of mastering the fundamentals, and an exciting new partnership with Jimmy John's that's helping fuel the next generation of athletes.After a short break (6 months), New Wave Certified is back—and so is New Wave Performance. Bigger. Better. And just getting started. This episode is all about elevation — physically, mentally, and in the community. Tap in. Level up. And be great!FOLLOW COACH ISH HERE:https://www.instagram.com/__justish/OTHER CONTENT MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST:https://youtu.be/RgYwH-iLfCshttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iBIO8YnYclQ&t=663shttps://youtu.be/n63FTrqfoyI https://youtu.be/_2hPIbVQIIQ?si=bQiL_Nf_2ZZMBRj9WANT TO TRAIN AT NEW WAVE PERFORMANCE CONTACT US HERE:https://www.newwaveperformance.com/contactWANT TO COME ON THE PODCAST EMAIL DARSHAUN HERE: darshaunsmith@dsmithproductions.comWANT TO REACH OUT TO JOHN PERSONALLY OR GIVE TO THE WAVE OF OPPORTUNITY FOUNDATION EMAIL JOHN HERE:johnlarkin@newwaveperformance.comGET MERCH HERE:https://www.newwaveperformance.com/shopSOCIALS:TikTok - @new.wave.performance https://www.tiktok.com/@new.wave.performanceInstagram - @new.wave.performance https://www.instagram.com/new.wave.performance/Twitter / X - @WavePerformance https://x.com/NewWavePerformFacebook - New Wave Performance https://www.facebook.com/new.wave.performance1/Do the little things — every day — and the big plays follow.New Wave PerformanceMoving you forward. Redefining performance.📍 Cedar Rapids, IA | #NewWaveCertified🔔 Subscribe for more athlete vlogs, and sports performance content.TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 WELCOME BACK TO NEW WAVE CERTIFIED 0:42 CYRUS COURTNEY NATION CHAMPIONSHIP STORY 2:55 HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETES ARE PUTTING IN WORK!! 3:56 NEW WAVE GO SOME NEW TURFF 6:15 WHY DOES HOW YOU FUEL UP POST WORKOUT MATTER SO MUCH? 8:09 HOW HAS GETTING RECRUITED CHANGED IN 2026? 10:10 NEW COACH AT NEW WAVE BROUGHT NEW INSIGHTS 13:26 MEET COACH ISH, NEW WAVE'S FIRST TRAINING STAFF HIRE! 14:55 HOW DID IT FEEL TO GET THE JOB AT NEW WAVE? 17:04 HOW MUCH HAVE YOU GROW AS A CAOACH IN THE LAST 6 WEEKS? 18:03 HOW DO YOU GET ATHLETES TO BUY IN WHEN YOU COACH THEM UP? 20:03 WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT TRAINING AT NEW WAVE? 21:00 ANY SUCCESS STORY THUS FAR IN YOUR COACHING JOUNEY? 22:34 WHAT IS TRAINING AGE, AND WHY DOES IT MATTER? 23:58 HOW DOES NEW WAVE PERFORMANCE HELP ATHLETES GAIN CONFIDENCE? 25:23 NFL FLAG LEAGUE SPONSORSHIP / WHEN TRAINING PAYS OFF IN THE REAL WORLD 26:04 WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF GOING IN YOUR COACHING JOUNEY? 27:59 WHY DID YOU HIRE ISH OVER OTHER TRAINERS IN THE AREA? 30:37 CHAMPIONSHIP WINNING RING MID-WEST FLAG FOOTBALL BACK STORY 31:39 OUTRO!!THIS PODCAST WAS PRODUCED DARSHAUN SMITH PRODUCTIONS LLC.https://www.dsmithproductions.com/

    The New Wave Standard: Building Champions. Building Coaches. Building the Future. | NWC EP. 24
  2. 11/27/2025

    Unlocking Explosiveness: Stories From the Plyometric Program + Black Friday deals (NWC Ep. 23)

    In Episode 23 of New Wave Certified, John Larkin takes you inside the power of a true plyometric system — and the results speak for themselves. John opens the episode sharing real client stories, including how one athlete shattered a personal record immediately after getting challenged to lock in. These moments highlight what happens when preparation, coaching, and effort collide. From there, John breaks down why plyometrics matter, the science behind explosive movement, and what a structured session actually looks like. If you've ever wondered why elite athletes train the way they do, this episode lays it all out in practical, easy-to-follow detail. John also celebrates the huge success of the Wave of Opportunity Turkey Drive, with the community showing up in a major way. To wrap it up, he previews the Black Friday and Cyber Monday training deals, giving athletes a chance to invest in themselves and take the next step. This episode is all about elevation — physically, mentally, and in the community. Tap in. Level up. And be great! BLACK FRIDAY SALE DETAILS: 11-28-2025 SALE END 12:00PM NOON CST - ALL NEW MEMBERS 50% DISCOUNT ON FIRST MONTH (LIMITED TO 5 PER PACKAGE LEVEL) - NEW MEMBERS BUY ONE MEMBERSHIP, GET A MONTH FREE FOR A FRIEND OR FAMILY MEMBER (LIMITED TO 5 PER PACKAGE LEVEL) - FOR EXSISTING MEMBERS $50 OFF FIRST MONTH PACKAGE LEVEL UPGRADE - FOR ALL MEMBERS 15% DISCOUNT WHEN YOU PAY 1 YEAR IN FULL CONTACT US: (TRAIN AT NEW WAVE / WAVE OF OPPORTUNITY / PODCAST GUEST) https://www.newwaveperformance.com/contact GET MERCH HERE: https://www.newwaveperformance.com/shop EMAIL: johnlarkin@newwaveperformance.com SOCIALS: TikTok - @new.wave.performance https://www.tiktok.com/@new.wave.performance Instagram - @new.wave.performance https://www.instagram.com/new.wave.performance/ Twitter - @WavePerformance https://x.com/NewWavePerform Facebook - New Wave Performance https://www.facebook.com/new.wave.performance1/ Do the little things — every day — and the big plays follow. New Wave Performance Moving you forward. Redefining performance. 📍 Cedar Rapids, IA | #NewWaveCertified 🔔 Subscribe for more athlete vlogs, and sports performance content. TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 INTRO 1:22 RESULTS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS! 5:37 HOW DID NEW WAVE PERFORMANCE GET THESE RESULTS (PLYOMETRIC 101) 10:56 WHAT DOES A SESSION LOOK LIKE? 15:40 WAVE OF OPPORTUNITY TURKEY DRIVE WAS A HUGE SUCCESS 19:30 BLACK FRIDAY DEALS 21:29 CYBER MONDAY DEALS 22:15 HOW NEW WAVE PERFORMANCE IS PUTTING ATHLETE ON! 25:10 OUTRO!

    Unlocking Explosiveness: Stories From the Plyometric Program + Black Friday deals (NWC Ep. 23)
  3. 11/14/2025

    Blueprint Season: How to Build Your Off-Season Plan for Success | EP. 22

    In Episode 22 of New Wave Certified, John Larkin dives into the real work that happens when the lights go out — the off-season grind. He breaks down how to build your blueprint for success, from creating structured plans to setting goals that actually lead to results. John highlights the current leaders in New Wave’s In-Season and Out-of Season programs and what they’re doing to separate themselves from the pack. He also covers how athletes across football, soccer, track and field, and baseball can tailor their training for long-term growth. To close it out, John shares advice on communicating with your coaches, staying accountable, and keeping your mindset locked in on your goals. This episode is all about setting the tone for a winning off-season — because the best don’t wait for next season to get better. NEW WAVE PERFORMANCE & WAVE OF OPPORTUNITY TURKEY DRIVE: WHERE: NEW WAVE PERFORMANCE HQ 5549 6th St SW Ste C, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404 DATE: SATURDAY NOVEMBER 22ND TIME: 10AM - 2PM WHAT TO BRING: TURKEY / FOOD TO DONATE FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON BLACK FRIDAY SALE DETAILS: 11-28-2025 SALE - ALL NEW MEMBERS 50% DISCOUNT ON FIRST MONTH (LIMITED TO 5 PER PACKAGE LEVEL) - NEW MEMBERS BUY ONE MEMBERSHIP, GET A MONTH FREE FOR A FRIEND OR FAMILY MEMBER (LIMITED TO 5 PER PACKAGE LEVEL) - FOR EXSISTING MEMBERS $50 OFF FIRST MONTH PACKAGE LEVEL UPGRADE - FOR ALL MEMBERS 15% DISCOUNT WHEN YOU PAY 1 YEAR IN FULL CONTACT US: (TRAIN AT NEW WAVE / WAVE OF OPPORTUNITY / PODCAST GUEST) https://www.newwaveperformance.com/contact GET MERCH HERE: https://www.newwaveperformance.com/shop EMAIL: johnlarkin@newwaveperformance.com SOCIALS: TikTok - @new.wave.performance https://www.tiktok.com/@new.wave.performance Instagram - @new.wave.performance https://www.instagram.com/new.wave.performance/ Twitter - @WavePerformance https://x.com/NewWavePerform Facebook - New Wave Performance https://www.facebook.com/new.wave.performance1/ Do the little things — every day — and the big plays follow. New Wave Performance Moving you forward. Redefining performance. 📍 Cedar Rapids, IA | #NewWaveCertified 🔔 Subscribe for more athlete vlogs, and sports performance content. TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 INTRO 0:45 IN SEASON TRAINING RESULTS 1:31 LEADERBOARD RECAP (HIGHSCHOOL AND MIDDLESCHOOL RESULTS) 5:02 WAVE OF OPPORTUNITY TURKEY DRIVE (11-22-2025) 7:14 PATH TO A PRODUCTIVE OFF SEASON (WINTER SPORTS) 9:38 PATH TO A PRODUCTIVE OFF SEASON (SPRING SPORTS) 12:31 BLACK FRIDAY DEALS 14:02 NEW ATHLETE RECRUITMENT PORTAL COMING SOON TO NEW WAVE 15:15 A MESSAGE TO ALL ATHLETES (SET GOALS AND TALK TO COACHES) 17:35 OUTRO (THANKS FOR YOUR TIME)

    Blueprint Season: How to Build Your Off-Season Plan for Success | EP. 22
  4. 10/30/2025

    Built Different | Week 9 Recap, Playoff Push & The Culture of Winning | EP. 21

    In Episode 21 of New Wave Certified, John Larkin closes out the Iowa high school football regular season with a full Week 9 recap and a look ahead at which local teams are heading into the playoffs. From standout performances to clutch moments, John breaks down what separates good programs from great ones — and how that same mindset drives success at New Wave Performance. This week, John takes a deep dive into the culture behind New Wave — where being a winner and a leader doesn’t start under the lights, but in the unseen hours of hard work, recovery, and preparation. He shares how those who embrace the “extra” behind the scenes are the ones who rise above the rest. To wrap up, John shines a spotlight on his college athletes, some of whom are earning scholarships and significant playing time at the next level. Their success stories prove what happens when you commit to the grind and trust the process. It’s the end of the regular season — but for true competitors, it’s just the beginning. Tap in for motivation, insight, and that New Wave energy. 🌊💪 NEW WAVE PERFORMANCE / WAVE OF OPPORTUNITY TURKEY DRIVE: WHERE: NEW WAVE HQ 5549 6th St SW Ste C, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404 DATE: SATURDAY NOVEMBER 22ND TIME: 10AM - 2PM WHAT TO BRING: TURKEY / FOOD TO DONATE FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON CONTACT US: ( TRAIN AT NEW WAVE / WAVE OF OPPORTUNITY / PODCAST GUEST) https://www.newwaveperformance.com/contact GET MERCH HERE: https://www.newwaveperformance.com/shop EMAIL: johnlarkin@newwaveperformance.com SOCIALS: TikTok - @new.wave.performance https://www.tiktok.com/@new.wave.performance Instagram - @new.wave.performance https://www.instagram.com/new.wave.performance/ Twitter - @WavePerformance https://x.com/NewWavePerform Facebook - New Wave Performance https://www.facebook.com/new.wave.performance1/ Do the little things — every day — and the big plays follow. New Wave Performance Moving you forward. Redefining performance. 📍 Cedar Rapids, IA | #NewWaveCertified 🔔 Subscribe for more athlete vlogs, and sports performance content. TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 INTRO 1:12 CLUTRE AT NEW WAVE AND HOW IT MAKES WINNERS 7:58 HOW ARE THE COLLEGE GUYS HOLDING UP? 9:37 WAVE OF OPPORTUNITY FOUNDATION TURKEY DRIVE 10:48 LIMITED SPOTS LEFT FOR THE PLYO PROGRAM 13:31 WEEK 9 RECAP / END OF REGULAR SEASON / PLAYOFFS 19:58 OUTRO! THANKS FOR WATCHING

    Built Different | Week 9 Recap, Playoff Push & The Culture of Winning | EP. 21
  5. 10/23/2025

    The Final Push | Week 9 Football, The 24-Hour Rule & WOO Turkey Drive | (EP. 20)

    In Episode 20 of New Wave Certified, John Larkin brings it all together as the Iowa high school football regular season hits its final week. He recaps the hard-fought Week 8 matchup between Iowa City West and Cedar Rapids Prairie, then previews Week 9, where top-ranked teams battle for playoff positioning and a shot at championship glory. But this episode is about more than stats and scores — it’s about mindset. John breaks down the “24-Hour Rule” — a powerful concept for athletes and everyday people alike: win or lose, celebrate or grieve for a day, then get back to the grind. It’s about valuing the process, staying consistent, and preparing for whatever comes next. John also takes a moment to recognize the senior athletes playing their final regular season games, reminding listeners to make every rep, play, and moment count. To close, he highlights the impact of his nonprofit, The Wave of Opportunity Foundation, and their upcoming Annual Turkey Drive happening the Saturday before Thanksgiving — a chance to give back and serve the community. This is more than a football podcast — it’s a masterclass in perseverance, purpose, and playing the long game. 🏈💪 CONTACT US: ( TRAIN AT NEW WAVE / WAVE OF OPPORTUNITY / PODCAST GUEST) https://www.newwaveperformance.com/contact GET MERCH HERE: https://www.newwaveperformance.com/shop EMAIL: johnlarkin@newwaveperformance.com SOCIALS: TikTok - @new.wave.performance https://www.tiktok.com/@new.wave.performance Instagram - @new.wave.performance https://www.instagram.com/new.wave.performance/ Twitter - @WavePerformance https://x.com/NewWavePerform Facebook - New Wave Performance https://www.facebook.com/new.wave.performance1/ Do the little things — every day — and the big plays follow. New Wave Performance Moving you forward. Redefining performance. 📍 Cedar Rapids, IA | #NewWaveCertified 🔔 Subscribe for more athlete vlogs, and sports performance content. TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 INTRO 1:31 WHERE WE STARTED AND HOW WE GOT HERE 5:00 PROCESS OVER OUTCOME! 8:20 THE COME UP / 24 HOUR RULE 11:50 WAVE OF OPPORTUNITY TURKEY DRIVE 13:50 WEEK 8 RECAP 19:01 WHERE DO THESE TEAMS GO FROM HERE! 20:22 WEEK 9 PREVIEW "LAST WEEK BEFORE PLAYOFFS" 26:40 MATCH UP / SCORE PREDICTION 27:27 OUTRO

    The Final Push | Week 9 Football, The 24-Hour Rule & WOO Turkey Drive | (EP. 20)
  6. 10/16/2025

    Invest in Greatness | Week 7 Recap, Week 8 Preview & The Power of Plyometrics | EP. 19

    In Episode 19 of New Wave Certified, John brings the energy once again — breaking down a dominant 50–14 win from Center Point-Urbana and previewing a massive Week 8 showdown between two ranked opponents. But before the Xs and Os, John dives into New Wave’s brand-new plyometric training program, explaining how explosive movement, proper recovery, and mindset can separate average athletes from the elite. He also gives listeners a sneak peek at what’s next for New Wave Certified — new guests, new topics, and even more value for athletes, parents, and coaches looking to elevate their game on and off the field. If you’re ready to invest in yourself and take your performance to the next level, this episode is a must-listen. 🚀 CONTACT US: ( TRAIN AT NEW WAVE / WAVE OF OPPORTUNITY / PODCAST GUEST) https://www.newwaveperformance.com/contact GET MERCH HERE: https://www.newwaveperformance.com/shop EMAIL: johnlarkin@newwaveperformance.com SOCIALS: TikTok - @new.wave.performance https://www.tiktok.com/@new.wave.performance Instagram - @new.wave.performance https://www.instagram.com/new.wave.performance/ Twitter - @WavePerformance https://x.com/NewWavePerform Facebook - New Wave Performance https://www.facebook.com/new.wave.performance1/ Do the little things — every day — and the big plays follow. New Wave Performance Moving you forward. Redefining performance. 📍 Cedar Rapids, IA | #NewWaveCertified 🔔 Subscribe for more athlete vlogs, and sports performance content. TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 INTRO 1:08 PLYOMETRIC PROGRAM 2:26 WEEK 7 RECAP 5:29 WEEK 8 PREVIEW 9:29 SCORE PREDICTION 11:48 THANKS FOR THE SUPPORT / OUTRO

    Invest in Greatness | Week 7 Recap, Week 8 Preview & The Power of Plyometrics | EP. 19
  7. 10/09/2025

    Periodization & Playoffs: Planning for Greatness | Week 6 Recap + Week 7 Preview | Ep. 18

    In Episode 18 of New Wave Certified, John Larkin dives deep into a powerful concept every athlete, trainer, and coach needs to understand — periodization. With only two weeks left before playoffs, John breaks down why it’s not enough to stick to sport-specific workouts year-round and how strategic planning during the off-season can elevate performance. Then, he recaps Week 6, highlighting Xavier’s big win over Waverly-Shell Rock, and looks ahead to key matchups in Week 7. Tune in to learn how to train smarter, finish strong, and set yourself up for long-term success — both on and off the field. CONTACT US: ( TRAIN AT NEW WAVE / WAVE OF OPPORTUNITY / PODCAST GUEST)https://www.newwaveperformance.com/contact GET MERCH HERE: https://www.newwaveperformance.com/shop SOCIALS: TikTok - @new.wave.performance https://www.tiktok.com/@new.wave.performance Instagram - @new.wave.performance https://www.instagram.com/new.wave.performance/ Twitter - @WavePerformance https://x.com/NewWavePerform Facebook - New Wave Performance https://www.facebook.com/new.wave.performance1/ Do the little things — every day — and the big plays follow. New Wave Performance Moving you forward. Redefining performance. 📍 Cedar Rapids, IA | #NewWaveCertified 🔔 Subscribe for more athlete vlogs, and sports performance content. TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 INTRO 1:23 WHAT IS PERIODIZATION AND HOW IT WORKS 10:09 WEEK 6 RECAP XAVIER GOT THE W 11:47 WEEK 7 PREVIEW 15:27 SCORE PREDICTION 17:22 THE JIG IS UP, TRUE COLORS ARE OUT 18:28 WHAT'S NEXT FOR THE PODCAST (MORE GUEST COMING SOON) / OUTRO

    Periodization & Playoffs: Planning for Greatness | Week 6 Recap + Week 7 Preview | Ep. 18
  8. 10/03/2025

    Midseason Grind: Week 5 Recap, Week 6 Preview & Staying Healthy for Playoffs | Ep. 17

    In Episode 17 of New Wave Certified, John Larkin breaks down all the action from Week 5 of Iowa high school football and previews what’s ahead in Week 6. But this week, he goes beyond the scoreboard — John shares valuable insight on how athletes, parents, and coaches can work together to keep players healthy, focused, and prepared for the playoff push. He also shines a spotlight on his nonprofit, the Wave of Opportunity Foundation, and invites listeners to get involved in supporting the next generation of athletes on and off the field. Whether you’re a football fan, athlete chasing your next level, or parent looking to support your player, this episode combines football insight with next-level recovery strategy. Tune in and level up—because every play and every action matters. CONTACT US: https://www.newwaveperformance.com/contact EMAIL: johnlarkin@newwaveperformance.com SOCIALS: TikTok - @new.wave.performance https://www.tiktok.com/@new.wave.performance Instagram - @new.wave.performance https://www.instagram.com/new.wave.performance/ Twitter - @WavePerformance https://x.com/NewWavePerform Facebook - New Wave Performance https://www.facebook.com/new.wave.performance1/ Do the little things — every day — and the big plays follow. New Wave Performance Moving you forward. Redefining performance. 📍 Cedar Rapids, IA | #NewWaveCertified 🔔 Subscribe for more athlete vlogs, and sports performance content. TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 INTRO 0:47 LONGEVITY IN SPORTS 2:56 HOW TO RECOVER FROM YOUR SPORTS PLAY 7:19 WHAT THE PLAYER CAN DO... 9:05 WHAT THE COACH CAN DO... 12:11 WHAT THE PARENT CAN DO... 13:57 LOW HANGING FRUIT / ACTION YOU CAN TAKE TODAY! 16:59 WEEK 5 RECAP (LIBERTY GOT THE W) 22:51 WEEK 6 PREVIEW 24:23 SCORE PREDICITION 28:15 OUTRO

    Midseason Grind: Week 5 Recap, Week 6 Preview & Staying Healthy for Playoffs | Ep. 17

About

New Wave Certified brings you inside the minds of elite athletes, top trainers, and entrepreneurs who are changing the game in sports and business. Athlete Interviews — Real conversations with competitors chasing greatness. Hear their journeys, lessons, setbacks, and wins—direct from the source. Training — Break down the science of performance. Learn how to move faster, train smarter, recover better, and master your craft with actionable insights from the experts. Entrepreneurship & Business — Explore the mindset and moves behind building a brand, a business, and a legacy.