
Paint The Edges
Paint The Edges is a podcast that challenges conventional thinking in fitness and performance. Hosted by industry veterans James Macintosh and James Thayer, each episode explores conversations beyond the mainstream, diving deep into the edges of performance, nutrition, business, and education. The show offers practical insights for coaches, athletes, and anyone passionate about human potential, inspiring listeners to think outside the box and push the limits of what's possible
Be sure to follow hosts James Macitosh @coachjamesmac and host James Thayer @thayer2513 on Instagram. For all things education, check out www.pre-script.com.
Latest episodes

Jun 15, 2025 • 58min
E37: Subjective vs. Objective Data: Finding Balance in Client Check-Ins
Mac and Thayer explore how effective check-ins can strengthen client relationships and drive better outcomes through strategic data collection and biofeedback. They discuss the balance between subjective and objective measures, realistic expectations, and how thoughtful check-in structures support autonomy, digestion, and overall health. https://www.instagram.com/coachjamesmac/ https://www.instagram.com/thayer2513/ It's time we get serious about exercise prescription. Join the PSL1 waitlist now! www.pre-script.com/psl1 FREE Coach's Field Guide: https://www.pre-script.com/coachs-field-guide Jet Lag, Flights, and Brain Drugs (00:00:16) Adderall on Planes and Absorption Tips (00:04:05) Peak Week, Travel, and Show Prep (00:07:12) PSL Nutrition Course Launch (00:08:55) Why Your Check-In Form Might Suck (00:14:36) The Difference Between Intake and Check-Ins (00:23:01) Subjective vs. Objective Data in Coaching (00:27:02) Tracking Readiness and Session Performance (00:33:17) What Every Check-In Form Should Include (00:38:36) Nutrition, Digestion, and Data Patterns (00:44:25) Stool Quality, Thyroid, and Check-In Red Flags (00:53:10) Why You’re Still Asking the Wrong Questions (00:56:02)

Jun 8, 2025 • 54min
E36: Recovery with Purpose: Rethinking Deloads
Mac and Thayer unpack the concept of deloading, emphasizing personalized recovery strategies and the importance of aligning them with individual fitness goals. They discuss managing client expectations and the need to regularly audit coaching practices to support effective, balanced recovery. https://www.instagram.com/coachjamesmac/ https://www.instagram.com/thayer2513/ It's time we get serious about exercise prescription. Join the PSL1 waitlist now! www.pre-script.com/psl1 FREE Coach's Field Guide: https://www.pre-script.com/coachs-field-guide Traveling in Korea: A Bodybuilding Adventure (00:00:16) Strategies for Recovery (00:11:07) The Importance of Context (00:25:16) Managing Client Expectations During Deloads (00:31:16) Nutrition and Recovery: Maintaining Structure During Deloads (00:37:23) Auditing Coaching Practices (00:43:27)

Jun 1, 2025 • 47min
E35: Range of Motion vs. Muscle Tension
Today's episode explores the nuances of training for hypertrophy, highlighting the importance of understanding range of motion, biomechanics, and effective loading. They address common misconceptions and emphasize that maximizing muscle tension shouldn't come at the cost of proper execution. https://www.instagram.com/coachjamesmac/ https://www.instagram.com/thayer2513/ It's time we get serious about exercise prescription. Join the PSL1 waitlist now! https://www.pre-script.com/psl1 FREE Coach's Field Guide: https://www.pre-script.com/coachs-field-guide Fire Codes and Curtain Crimes (00:00:00) Monster Rosé: A Taste Test Gone Wrong (00:08:23) The Truth About Range of Motion (00:14:04) Muscle vs. Exercise ROM Explained (00:15:02) Squats, Leg Presses, and Losing Gains (00:19:27) Intentional Programming > Max ROM (00:25:26) The Leg Extension Scam Device (00:34:09) Anatomy, Biomechanics, and Better Gains (00:44:24)

May 25, 2025 • 48min
E34: Deload or Lazy? Understanding Intent vs. Excuse
Mac and Thayer dive into the role of stress in training, highlighting when and how to know if a deload is needed. They explore how strategic recovery drives progress, the mindset behind intentional training, and the balance between routine and challenge. From adaptation to performance metrics, this conversation unpacks how pushing limits and knowing when to pull back shapes long-term success. https://www.instagram.com/coachjamesmac/ https://www.instagram.com/thayer2513/ It's time we get serious about exercise prescription. Join the PSL1 waitlist now! https://www.pre-script.com/psl1 FREE Coach's Field Guide: https://www.pre-script.com/coachs-field-guide The Dynamic Duo: Host Chemistry (00:00:00) Packing for Adventure: Travel Plans and Essentials (00:02:51) Navigating Stress: The Body's Response to Life (00:05:55) Training with Intention: The Importance of Purpose (00:09:01) Deloading: When and Why It Matters (00:12:01) The Balance of Routine and Challenge (00:14:54) Optimizing Performance: The Deload Debate (00:17:49) Navigating Training Adaptations (00:21:00) Metrics and Performance Assessment (00:24:00) Understanding Deloads and Their Importance (00:27:00) The Mentality of Training Hard (00:30:00) The Journey of Training: No End Goal (00:32:52) Life Lessons from Training (00:40:08)

May 18, 2025 • 47min
E33: Sensation and Skill: Unlocking the Nervous System in Coaching
In this episode of Paint the Edges, hosts James Mac and Thayer dive into the role of community in learning, unpack the intricacies of the nervous system, and explore how a deeper understanding of skill acquisition can elevate coaching. They discuss how manipulating sensory input can enhance training outcomes and highlight the skill behind effective coaching. This conversation sheds light on the foundational principles that drive successful training. https://www.instagram.com/coachjamesmac/ https://www.instagram.com/thayer2513/ LAST CHANCE to sign up for this cohort of PSL1. https://www.pre-script.com/psl1 FREE Coach's Field Guide: https://www.pre-script.com/coachs-field-guide Monsters, Medication & Morning Chaos (00:01:24) Why Pre-Script Labs Matter (00:04:00) Creating a Coaching Community (00:06:00) From Application to Conversation (00:08:06) The Value of Deeper Learning in L2 (00:13:13) Understanding the Nervous System (00:14:41) Sensory Inputs & Skill Acquisition (00:20:08) Adapting Coaching to Learning Styles (00:23:16) How Group Dynamics Reveal Learning Types (00:28:08) Warm-Ups Through Play and Visual Input (00:34:12) Simple Principles, Better Results (00:38:40) Reframing Pain with Sensory Distraction (00:41:31) Manipulating the CNS for Client Success (00:44:17) Becoming the Artist as a Coach (00:45:55)

May 11, 2025 • 54min
E32: The Coach-Client Match: Why Personality Matters
Thayer and Mac dive into the complexities of coaching, from tailoring communication styles to evaluating client compatibility. They explore how prioritizing personality dynamics over pure skill can enhance team cohesion and coaching outcomes. The conversation highlights the value of intentional listening, adaptive strategies, and the often-overlooked importance of client selection in building strong, effective coaching relationships. https://www.instagram.com/coachjamesmac/ https://www.instagram.com/thayer2513/ Class Starts Monday! Sign up for PSL1 Now at https://www.pre-script.com/psl1 FREE Coach's Field Guide: https://www.pre-script.com/coachs-field-guide Travel Setup & New Gear (00:00:00) The Osmo Pocket & Content Creation (00:02:24) Packing Efficiently for Travel (00:05:07) Laundry Strategy & Minimalism (00:06:41) Wellness Event & Trainer Development (00:08:03) Teaching Engagement Through Challenges (00:13:26) Why Soft Skills Matter in Coaching (00:20:38) Client Interviews & Communication Styles (00:26:01) Profiling Clients for Better Coaching (00:28:03) Knowing Who to Coach (00:31:11) Cheer Tryouts & Personality Screening (00:32:07) Skill vs Personality in Team Building (00:38:19) Lessons for Coaches from Tryouts (00:45:03) Adaptable vs Rigid Coaching Styles (00:49:19) Maximizing Coaching Impact (00:52:11)

May 4, 2025 • 43min
E31: Conversations That Shape Coaches: Travel, Teaching, and Technique
Thayer and Mac kick off this episode of Paint the Edges with a mix of personal updates, including Mac’s recent competition success—with insights on coaching, communication, and travel. They dive into the importance of understanding exercise intent, the role of education in developing problem-solving coaches, and how biomechanics applies across disciplines. https://www.instagram.com/coachjamesmac/ https://www.instagram.com/thayer2513/ PSL1 Registration is NOW LIVE. Sign Up at https://www.pre-script.com/psl1 FREE Coach's Field Guide: https://www.pre-script.com/coachs-field-guide Travel Edition Insights (00:02:02) The Hotel Experience (00:06:06) Uber Adventures in Sydney (00:09:01) Competition and Future Plans (00:17:03) Navigating Transportation Challenges (00:17:47) Understanding Communication in Coaching (00:19:45) The Importance of Purpose in Exercise Selection (00:20:57) Expanding the Utility of Exercise Tools (00:23:03) The Systems Approach to Training (00:25:42) The Role of Education in Coaching (00:27:33) Encouraging Independent Problem Solving (00:29:34) The Importance of Asking the Right Questions (00:31:32) Building Confidence in Problem Solving (00:36:16) Applying Biomechanics Across Disciplines (00:40:50)

Apr 27, 2025 • 52min
E30: The 3X Rule: Maximizing ROI in Coaching Businesses
In this episode of Paint the Edges, Thayer and Mac take a strategic look at coaching operations, introducing the 3X rule as a benchmark for coach value. They evaluate the cost-benefit of key strategies—including onboarding processes, staff development, exercise libraries, and client communication—highlighting where to invest time and resources for maximum return. https://www.instagram.com/coachjamesmac/ https://www.instagram.com/thayer2513/ PSL1 Registration is NOW LIVE. Sign Up at https://www.pre-script.com/psl1 FREE Coach's Field Guide: https://www.pre-script.com/coachs-field-guide Navigating Weight Management Challenges (00:02:58) Understanding Weight Fluctuations (00:05:57) The Cost-Benefit Ratio in Coaching (00:08:56) The 3X Rule in Business (00:15:03) Investing in Employee Development (00:21:13) Evaluating Time and Technology in Coaching (00:27:06) The Cost-Benefit Analysis of Exercise Libraries (00:30:01) The Inefficiency of Generic Exercise Videos (00:33:09) Understanding the Value of Time in Coaching (00:39:01) Maximizing Efficiency and Value in Coaching (00:45:02)

Apr 20, 2025 • 47min
E29: Pattern Recognition and Practice: Smarter Youth Training
On this episode James Mac and James Thayer blend humor and insight as they jump from Australian wildlife—like the infamous 'big boy' funnel spider—to the nuances of sports training. They explore pattern recognition in cricket, youth practice design, and the impact of technology on athletic development. FREE Exercise Selection Webinar: https://www.pre-script.com/exercise-selection-webinar https://www.instagram.com/coachjamesmac/ https://www.instagram.com/thayer2513/ PSL1 Registration is NOW LIVE. Sign Up at https://www.pre-script.com/psl1 FREE Coach's Field Guide: https://www.pre-script.com/coachs-field-guide Deadly Spiders of Australia (00:03:46) Wasp Control and Alternatives (00:09:12) Military Tactics and Warfare (00:14:02) Testing Riot Control Equipment (00:16:10) The Mechanics of Non-Lethal Weapons (00:17:19) Explosive Mishaps and Safety Concerns (00:19:45) Cricket: A Personal Journey (00:20:16) The Science of Pattern Recognition in Sports (00:22:59) Evaluating Training Tools in Sports (00:25:27) Managing Pitching and Batting Practices (00:30:55) Optimizing Practice for Youth Athletes (00:39:01)

Apr 13, 2025 • 48min
E28: Travel Smart: Routines, Nutrition, and Staying Dialed In
In this episode of Paint the Edges, Mac and Thayer unpack how to stay efficient and perform at a high level while traveling for work. They explore strategies for creating familiar routines, staying on top of nutrition and hydration, and making intentional decisions that support performance and health on the road. https://www.instagram.com/coachjamesmac/ https://www.instagram.com/thayer2513/ PSL1 Registration is NOW LIVE. Sign Up at https://www.pre-script.com/psl1 FREE Coach's Field Guide: https://www.pre-script.com/coachs-field-guide Navigating Home Ownership Challenges (00:02:59) Culinary Struggles: The Chicken Chronicles (00:06:06) Traveling with Consistency: Meal Prep Strategies (00:11:47) Finding Convenience in Travel (00:18:05) Creating a Familiar Environment (00:21:02) Efficiency in Work and Travel (00:24:36) Establishing Routines for Success (00:30:41) Nutrition Strategies While Traveling (00:31:11) Pre-Planning for Travel Success (00:42:06)