

The Barbell Therapy & Performance Podcast
Dr. Brett Scott
Doctor of Physical Therapy and strength coach Brett Scott sits down with the top experts in the fields of rehab, fitness, and performance to give listeners the latest and most valuable information to keep you at the top of your game. Whether you are a coach, clinician, or fitness junkie this podcast is for you.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 16, 2025 • 56min
Cognition Meets Speed and Agility
Dr. Brett Scott talks with strength coach Jason Feairheller about what truly makes athletes fast—blending cognitive reaction with physical capacity—covering multidirectional power, change-of-direction mechanics, smart drill progressions, strength pairing, rehab considerations, and practical programming.Takeaways:Speed involves both cognitive ability and physical capacity.Genetics can influence top-end speed but not overall performance.Cognitive training can improve an athlete's reaction time.Injury prevention strategies are essential in speed training.Mobility and coordination are critical for effective speed training.Reactive drills should be a significant part of training.Strength training should complement speed work for optimal performance.Understanding movement mechanics is vital for injury prevention.Athletes should be assessed through every drill they perform.A structured training program is necessary for improving speed and agility.Chapters00:00- Introduction to Speed and Agility Training01:18- Understanding Speed: Cognitive and Physical Components06:40- The Role of Genetics in Athletic Performance11:20- Training Speed: Cognitive vs. Physical Strength16:30- Injury Prevention and Speed Training19:25- Categorizing Speed and Agility Drills27:00- Coordination, Mobility, and Performance30:39- Understanding Movement Mechanics32:46- Mental Readiness in Athletic Performance36:53- Reactive Training for Speed and Agility40:46- Structuring Speed and Strength Training46:31- Integrating Olympic Lifting for Multi-Directional Athletes52:42- Injury Prevention through Movement Mechanics

Sep 8, 2025 • 1h 23min
Real progress is built on fundamentals, not passing trends.
Dr. Brett Scott and Meghan Callaway dive into the 3 E’s of coaching, pull-ups, and building results that last.TAKEAWAYS:Education leads to empowerment and excitement in training.Fundamentals are key to achieving consistent results.Social media can mislead people about fitness goals.Performance-based goals are more empowering than aesthetic goals.Bodybuilding can lead to unhealthy behaviors and mindsets.Calisthenics requires a focus on technique and control.Muscle-ups require a high pull and proper transition technique.Variety in training keeps clients engaged and motivated.Sustainability in fitness comes from understanding and mastering basics.Education helps clients trust the process and stick to their goals. The hybrid or false grip allows for a fluid transition in muscle ups.Strict muscle ups can be achieved with practice and the right technique.Injury recovery requires patience and relearning fundamental movements.Medical professionals can sometimes provide misleading advice regarding injuries.Strength training is essential for maintaining health as we age.Calisthenics offers unique benefits that complement traditional weightlifting.Finding the right gym equipment is crucial for effective training.Body control is a key component in performing advanced movements like muscle ups.It's important to focus on safe training practices to prevent injuries.A balanced approach to fitness includes both calisthenics and weight training.Chapters00:00- Introduction to Coaching Philosophy01:01- The Three E's of Coaching06:49- Social Media's Impact on Fitness09:36- Empowerment Through Training13:30- The Dangers of Bodybuilding Competitions18:44- Focusing on Performance Over Aesthetics25:32- The Importance of Education in Training26:08- Megan's Journey into Calisthenics30:01- Mastering Muscle-Ups: Techniques and Progressions36:01- The Importance of Pull Height and Transition Strength42:10- Injury Recovery and Muscle-Up Technique54:58- From In-Person Coaching to Online Training56:51- The Frustration of Misinformation in Healthcare59:05- The Impact of Misdiagnosis on Health01:01:25- The Importance of Strength Training01:03:06- Understanding Body Mechanics01:06:04- The Role of Coaches in Injury Prevention01:09:17- The Benefits of Calisthenics01:12:57- Hybrid Training Approaches01:19:59- Closing Thoughts and Resources

Sep 1, 2025 • 1h 9min
Natural, stem-cell aesthetic rejuvenation
Dr. Brett Scott talks with Dr. Edgar Belanis and NP Christina Knight of Dynamic Evolutions about PRP, umbilical cord stem cells, IV therapies, and functional medicine for natural healing and wellness.TAKEAWAYS:Dynamic Evolutions offers a range of services including PRP and stem cell therapy.PRP is derived from the patient's own blood and has healing properties.Stem cells can be harvested from umbilical cords, providing high-quality treatment options.Functional medicine focuses on treating the whole person, not just symptoms.Patient success stories highlight the effectiveness of their treatments.Quality and source of stem cells are crucial for effective therapy.Stem cell therapy can help reduce reliance on pain medications.Integrating Eastern and Western medicine can enhance patient care.Aesthetic treatments can be approached with natural alternatives.Lifestyle changes play a significant role in overall health.Chapters:00:00- Introduction to Dynamic Evolutions and Services Offered03:09- Understanding PRP and Stem Cell Therapy05:57- Quality and Source of Stem Cells09:12- Functional Medicine Approach to Health12:05- Patient Experiences and Success Stories15:06- Navigating Stem Cell Treatment Options17:50- Safety and Side Effects of Stem Cell Therapy21:05- Comparing Stem Cell Sources23:51- Personal Experiences with Stem Cell Treatment27:10- Cost Considerations and Alternatives to Surgery30:04- Final Thoughts on Stem Cell Therapy and Surgery37:25- The Stem Cell Debate41:28- Exploring Alternative Therapies46:37- Innovations in Healing Technologies52:46- Understanding Energy Medicine58:56- Balancing Modern Aesthetics and Health

Aug 6, 2025 • 1h 5min
Stop Squatting So Much and Do This Instead
Coach Kevin Carr joins Dr. Brett Scott to explore why back squats may not be ideal for most athletes, the benefits of unilateral training, and how smart programming and sprint timing can unlock peak performance.TAKEAWAYS:Unilateral training can be more effective than bilateral squats for many athletes.The back squat is not necessary for all athletes, especially those with specific sports demands.Conditioning should be tailored to the athlete's existing training load and sport schedule.Rate of force production is crucial for sports performance, especially in explosive movements.Teaching Olympic lifts requires a focus on safety and technique, especially for younger athletes.The bilateral deficit allows athletes to lift more weight on one leg than two, making single leg training valuable.Heavy loading in single leg exercises can yield significant strength gains.Mindset is key in pushing athletes to embrace single leg training.Speed and power training should be prioritized alongside strength training for optimal performance.Regularly measuring speed can motivate athletes and inform training adjustments.Chapters00:00- Introduction to Strength and Conditioning01:52- The Shift from Back Squats to Unilateral Training05:29- Understanding the Why Behind Training Choices08:21- The Role of Olympic Lifting in Athletic Training12:57-Exploring Rate of Force Production vs. Peak Force15:29- The Bilateral Deficit Explained27:14- Heavy Loading in Single Leg Exercises31:57- Strength Training Insights35:37- Programming for Athletic Development39:25- The Importance of Speed and Power43:49- Conditioning and Recovery Strategies56:44- The Role of Massage in Athletic Performance

Jul 8, 2025 • 2h 20min
Chiropractic pseudoscience with former Chiro Dr. Ryan Debell
Dr. Ryan DeBell, who no longer identifies as a chiropractor joins Brett Scott to unpack the science, myths, and overlap between PT and chiropractic and why labels might be holding us all back.Takeaways:Manual therapy can provide immediate relief and hope to patients.The effectiveness of manual therapy should not be discounted due to lack of studies.Chiropractic practices can sometimes create dependency in patients.Understanding the difference between manipulation and adjustment is crucial.Evidence-based practice is essential in chiropractic care.Accurate diagnosis is vital for effective treatment.Chiropractors and physical therapists can learn from each other.Claims about chiropractic benefits should be critically evaluated.Ethics in chiropractic practices are important for patient trust.Posture and spinal alignment can impact pain, but context matters. Posture and alignment are crucial for effective movement.Manipulation may provide temporary relief but is not a long-term solution.Understanding geometry in movement can prevent injuries.Emotional health impacts physical posture and movement.Training should include a variety of movements and ranges of motion.Heavy lifting should be balanced with mobility work.Posture does not solely dictate pain; context matters.Training philosophies should adapt to individual needs and goals.Integrating different training domains enhances overall performance.Awareness of body mechanics is essential for health and fitness.Chapters00:00- The Power of Manual Therapy05:52- Misconceptions in Chiropractic Care12:01- The Role of Scar Tissue and Adhesions18:03- Professional Integrity in Healthcare24:04- Understanding Risks and Misunderstandings in Treatment29:54- Navigating Knee Pain: A Personal Journey35:20- Complex Cases: When Symptoms Don't Add Up41:19- Understanding the Limits of Treatment49:32- The Risks of Manipulation56:15- The Debate on Posture and Pain01:02:19- The Geometry of Movement and Posture01:08:26- Understanding Manipulation and Its Limitations01:18:23- Exploring the Connection Between Movement and Health01:27:12- Understanding Joint Angles and Injury Prevention01:36:34- Integrating Various Training Approaches01:42:39- The Five Domains of Human Movement01:49:26- The Role of Olympic Lifting in Athletic Performance

Jun 20, 2025 • 56min
Sports Recovery with PRP, Stem Cells
Tune in as Dr. Brett and Dr. Sussman break down PRP, stem cells, and cutting-edge sports medicine.TAKEAWAYS:Dr. Sussman emphasizes a comprehensive approach to musculoskeletal care.85% of musculoskeletal issues can be treated non-surgically.Cortisone injections can provide temporary relief but may have long-term consequences.PRP is a concentration of platelets used to initiate healing.Stem cell therapy is regulated and can offer longer relief than PRP.Prolotherapy uses irritants to stimulate a healing response.Hydrodissection can help relieve nerve entrapment.Ultrasound-guided procedures can significantly reduce recovery time.Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment planning.Innovative treatments are reshaping the landscape of orthopedic care.Chapters00:00- Introduction to Dr. Walter Sussman and His Expertise01:53- Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Care vs. Traditional Orthopedics03:13- Innovative Procedures in Musculoskeletal Treatment08:00- Understanding Cortisone Injections and Their Role10:49- Exploring PRP: Uses and Benefits17:55- The Nuances of PRP and Insurance Coverage25:38- PRP for Joint Issues and Dosing Considerations28:27- Exploring Shockwave Therapy and PRP28:54- Understanding Stem Cell Therapy30:17- Regulations and Indications for Stem Cells31:10- Comparing PRP and Stem Cell Treatments35:03- Prolo Therapy: An Alternative Approach36:55- Hydro Dissection: A New Technique42:23- Ultrasound-Guided Mini Surgical Procedures48:34- Innovations in Orthopedic Treatments

Jun 11, 2025 • 1h 1min
Strength Goals, Real Results Podcast
Tune in as powerlifting coach Jessie Burdick joins Dr. Brett Scott to share her journey from self-doubt to strength, building a gym mid-pandemic, and why powerlifting is for everyone.TAKEAWAYS:Jess started powerlifting in her late twenties after being encouraged by a friend.She opened her gym during the pandemic, initially in a small office space.The difference between strength coaching for teams and powerlifting coaching lies in the consistency and commitment of clients.Powerlifting allows for more freedom and personal growth compared to coaching athletes.Jess emphasizes the importance of mindset and self-acceptance in powerlifting.She believes that everyone deserves to compete, regardless of their strength level.Powerlifting has helped Jess overcome anxiety and depression.The sport is about personal growth and enjoyment, not just competition.Jess encourages newcomers to focus on their own journey rather than comparing themselves to others.The pressures of elite competition can be overwhelming, and it's important to maintain a realistic perspective. Younger coaches often promise unrealistic results to athletes.Success in powerlifting comes from lifestyle choices, not just programs.Cutting weight should only be a factor at the national level.Powerlifting is accessible for beginners and has a low barrier to entry.Injuries in powerlifting often result from carelessness, not the lifts themselves.The community of powerlifting is evolving with younger participants.Inclusivity is essential in the powerlifting community.Long-term commitment to the sport is more valuable than short-term success.Older athletes often show more dedication and resilience in training.The perception of powerlifting as dangerous is often exaggerated.CHAPTERS:00:00- Introduction to Powerlifting and Coaching Journey05:55- Starting a Gym: Challenges and Triumphs12:00- Navigating the Coaching Landscape18:01- Overcoming Fear and Judgment in Powerlifting24:09- The Pressure of Elite Competition33:04- The Reality of Coaching Young Athletes48:31- Building a Supportive Powerlifting Community

Jun 2, 2025 • 1h 15min
Improving Performance with Better Breathing
Dr. Brett Scott sits down with strength coach and PRI expert Miguel Aragoncillo to break down the real science behind movement, posture, and power—from MLB pitching to everyday athletes.Ditch the balloon myths. Tune in for actionable insight on breathing, rotation, and building resilient bodies.Hit play. Expand your lens. Train smarter.TAKEAWAYS:-PRI incorporates neuroscience into strength conditioning.-Breathing techniques can enhance athletic performance.-Posture is dynamic and affects movement patterns.-Rib cage mobility is crucial for effective breathing.-Common faults in athletes can be corrected with PRI.-Improving range of motion can lead to better performance.-PRI can be integrated with massage therapy for better outcomes.-Not everyone may need PRI, but it can benefit many.-Specific conditions may require tailored PRI approaches.-Understanding the relationship between muscles and nerves is essential. Mobility assessments are crucial for understanding functionality.-PRI techniques can seamlessly integrate into strength conditioning.-Runners need to learn efficient movement patterns to enhance performance.-Manual therapy plays a significant role in athlete recovery.-Strength coaching has evolved with the introduction of PRI principles.-Blending techniques can optimize athletic performance.-Flexion restoration is essential for addressing back pain in athletes.-A variety of exercises can be used for posture restoration beyond traditional methods.-Understanding when to refer to a PRI specialist is important for client care.-Resources like home courses can help practitioners learn PRI effectively.CHAPTERS:00:00- Introduction to Postural Restoration and Strength Coaching05:09- The Importance of Breathing and Rib Cage Dynamics12:43- Application of PRI in Pitching and Sprinting18:05- Common Faults in Rotational Athletes22:57- Performance Limitations and Injury Prevention27:28- Integrating Massage Therapy and PRI31:55- Is PRI for Everyone?35:03- Addressing Specific Conditions with PRI40:27- Assessing Mobility and Functionality43:05- Integrating PRI with Strength and Conditioning46:12- Enhancing Efficiency for Runners49:42- The Role of Manual Therapy in Performance51:22- Evolution of Strength Coaching with PRI54:58- Blending Techniques for Optimal Performance56:24- Beyond the Basics: Expanding PRI Techniques01:00:08- Flexion and Strength Training Perspectives01:06:46- When to Refer to a PRI Specialist01:09:24- Resources for Learning PRI

Apr 10, 2025 • 1h
What are the Risks of Ozempic and Other GLP-1 Inhibitors?
In this episode of the Barbell Therapy Podcast, Dr. Brett Scott sits down with women’s health nurse practitioner Laura Brown to explore the growing use of Ozempic and GLP-1 inhibitors in weight management and hormonal health. They break down how these medications work, who they’re best suited for, and why lifestyle changes are critical for long-term success. The conversation dives into hormone replacement therapy (HRT), muscle and bone health in menopause, and the importance of addressing sarcopenia and osteopenia. Laura also discusses continuous glucose monitoring, cultural views on weight loss, and side effects like “Ozempic face.” Tune in for a thoughtful, holistic take on modern women’s health and how to achieve sustainable wellness.KEYWORDS:Ozempic, GLP-1 inhibitors, women's health, menopause, hormone therapy, weight loss, health coaching, lifestyle changes, diabetes, wellness, menopause, sarcopenia, osteopenia, diabetes, GLP-1, weight loss, health interventions, continuous glucose monitoring, off-label use, Ozempic faceTAKEAWAYS: Ozempic is a useful tool for weight management.The drug works by slowing digestion and affecting satiety.Candidates for Ozempic include those with metabolic issues.Lifestyle changes are crucial for sustainable weight loss.HRT can be preventative for osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease.Education on medication use is essential for patients.Exercise should be viewed as a privilege, not a punishment.Patients need to be informed about potential side effects.Weight loss medications should not be seen as a lifelong solution.Holistic approaches to health can lead to better outcomes. Sarcopenia and osteopenia negatively impact each other.Improving bone health can enhance muscle health and vice versa.Tapering protocols for diabetes medications are not well-studied.Continuous glucose monitoring is becoming more accessible.GLP-1 medications are often used off-label for weight loss.Cultural perceptions of weight loss influence medication use.Ozempic face is a concern related to rapid weight loss.Candidates for GLP-1 medications often have chronic health issues.Patient motivation is crucial for successful treatment outcomes.A comprehensive approach to health is essential for long-term success.CHAPTERS:00:00 - Introduction to Women's Health and Ozempic01:35 - Understanding Ozempic and GLP-1 Inhibitors04:10 - Mechanism of Action: How Ozempic Works05:15 - Identifying the Right Candidates for Ozempic07:27 - The Role of Lifestyle Changes in Weight Management10:38 - Hormonal Health: Menopause and HRT15:46 - The Intersection of HRT and Weight Loss Medications20:19 - Risks and Side Effects of Ozempic25:19 - Biomarker Improvements with Ozempic27:05 - The Myth of Lifelong Dependency on Ozempic31:37 - The Interplay of Muscle and Bone Health32:11 -Tapering Protocols and Medication Management35:21 - Diabetes Medications: Metformin vs. GLP-1s36:48 - Continuous Glucose Monitoring: A New Tool for Health39:07 - Off-Label Use of GLP-1 Medications42:21 - Cultural Perceptions of Weight Loss and Medications45:00 - Understanding Ozempic Face and Muscle Loss51:20 - Identifying Candidates for GLP-1 Medications55:13 - Preparing for GLP-1 Treatment: Considerations and Safety

Apr 1, 2025 • 1h 15min
How to Balance Strength and Cardio for Optimal Fitness
Join Dr. Brett Scott in this insightful episode of the Barbell Therapy Podcast as he talks with Jason Brown, a leading voice in strength coaching and conjugate programming. They unpack the fundamentals of the conjugate method, its adaptability across fitness levels, and why aerobic capacity matters more than you think. Jason opens up about his own experience with the system and shares strategies for managing the overlap between strength and cardio training. The episode also touches on key topics like weight loss challenges, genetic individuality, and how to structure training for real-world results. A great listen for anyone aiming to level up their performance and programming approach.KEYWORDS:Conjugate programming, strength training, aerobic conditioning, fitness, program design, longevity, powerlifting, training methods, exercise science, recovery, weight loss, cardio, training split, full body training, strength training, nutrition, program evaluation, fitness goals, exercise science, hypertrophy.TAKEAWAYS: Conjugate programming allows for training multiple qualities of fitness simultaneously.The aerobic system is crucial for recovery and overall fitness.Conjugate training can be tailored to various athletic goals, not just powerlifting.Personal experience with conjugate training led to significant performance improvements.Aerobic conditioning enhances recovery and performance in strength training.Balancing strength and cardio is essential for long-term fitness success.Training splits should accommodate both strength and aerobic work for best results.The interference effect can impact training outcomes when combining different modalities.Consistency in training is key to achieving fitness goals.Engaging in aerobic work can improve overall health and longevity. Weight loss is primarily about being in a caloric deficit.Cardio is essential for heart health, not necessarily for weight loss.Strength training is more effective for improving insulin resistance and metabolism.Full body training is suitable for all fitness levels and maximizes efficiency.Soreness is not a good indicator of workout effectiveness; mechanical tension is key.Quality of training is more important than quantity; effort matters.Nutrition and sleep are critical components of fitness success.Many popular training programs lack scientific backing and can be ineffective.Consistency and commitment to a program yield better long-term results.Understanding personal goals and limitations is crucial for effective training.CHAPTERS:00:00- Introduction to Conjugate Programming01:11- Understanding the Conjugate Training System04:21-The Versatility of Conjugate Training08:11- Personal Journey with Conjugate Training11:00- Principles of Conjugate Programming15:28- The Importance of Aerobic Conditioning21:16- Interference Effect in Training33:29- Balancing Strength and Cardio Training38:41- Understanding Weight Loss and Cardio44:10- The Ultimate Training Split: Full Body vs. Others50:49- Goals and Effectiveness of Full Body Training55:01- The Power of Effort in Training01:00:24- Evaluating Popular Training Programs


