NSCA’s Coaching Podcast, Episode 42: Ashley Jackson, Nicole Dabbs, Kourtney Thomas

Ashley Jackson, Nicole Dabbs, and Kourtney Thomas have been very influential in each of their careers in the field of strength and conditioning and are a part of the executive council of the National Strength and Conditioning Associations (NSCA) Women’s Committee. They talk with NSCA Head Strength and Conditioning Coach, Scott Caulfield, about their journey in the field of strength and conditioning and how to teach and influence future coaches. Topics under discussion include: internships, experience, networking, mentorship, and current/ future roles of women in strength and conditioning.

Find Scott on Twitter: @scottcaulfield

Show Notes

“I’m not just supporting strength coaches, or just female strength coaches – I’m making sure that the best people are here and a part of our profession and being supported.”

-          Ashley 2:56

“Reach out to people and say ‘hey here’s the reason why I think you’re amazing – I love what you do and I’d like to learn more about it.’” Kourtney 5:45

“It’s important to have someone who supports you and is leading you into your profession.” Nicole 7:15

“More importantly, you have to take control of yourself and your own future… you’ve got to show up.” Nicole 7:21

“We’re all leading student-athletes, we’re all trying to empower and cultivate a good culture with these young kids and they [sport coaches at Michigan] do a really good job of it. Why can’t I use some of the things they’re doing?” Ashley 11:20

“I make sure my students have every opportunity they’re willing to take… to better themselves and put them in a good position.” Nicole           15:40

“I think that education is first thing you need to take care of and then getting in a weight room and physically training yourself, getting comfortable with a barbell, getting comfortable with what ‘hurt’ feels like and being able to talk about it and communicate it with someone else.” Ashley 20:18

“Do the necessary requirements… put in your time, do whatever it takes to get there.”

 Ashley 21:41

“Don’t give up what you want most for what you want now.” Scott 21:48

“Volunteer and apply—if you meet the minimum requirements, you never know!”

 Nichole 23:42

“Open your brain to what you are passionate about and how you might want to help people and how you can do that.” Kourtney 26:16

“We [NSCA] need to build a culture that is inclusive.” Nicole 28:28

“If we want something changed, then we have to be a part of that.” Ashley 29:56