
Assemble Performance Podcast
The Assemble Performance Podcast dives deep into what it takes to perform well both in sports and in life. Hosted by Justin Jones, a passionate trail runner, strength athlete, and CEO & head coach of Assemble Performance. This podcast is for everyone, from the serious endurance, strength, or hybrid athlete to the outdoor enthusiast who wants to live life to the fullest. We believe that peak performance is an assembly of physical training, mental fortitude, emotional health, and social support. Whether you're training for a sport, or viewing life itself as the ultimate athletic event, join us in redefining limits and living a life full of challenges and adventure.
Latest episodes

Mar 11, 2025 • 53min
Building Strength and Longevity: Kettlebells and Human Performance with Hunter Crine
Welcome back to the Assemble Performance Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Hunter Krein, a seasoned strength coach with over a decade of experience. Hunter holds a bachelor's degree in kinesiology from Penn State and a master's in sports science from Hofstra University. He is also the founder of Kettlebell Coach University, an online certification program catering to hundreds of coaches globally. Hunter discusses his journey into fitness, spurred by early experiences in a weight room, and the transformative power of strength training. He emphasizes the importance of training like an athlete at any age to build resilience and prepare for life's physical challenges. We dive into the necessity of community, continuous learning, and finding mentors to accelerate growth in the fitness industry. Hunter also touches on the value of kettlebells as a versatile tool for all ages and abilities, his transition into kettlebell training, and his experience running a marathon at 230 pounds. Tune in for insights on sustaining long-term health and performance, building deep social connections, and effective coaching strategies. Don't miss out on hearing about Hunter's upcoming events and how you can get involved!Get in touch with Hunter:https://www.instagram.com/hunter_crine/Kettlebell Coach University:https://www.kettlebellcoachuniversity.com/Apply For Coaching: https://form.jotform.com/243302394225147Contact Me: justin@assembleperformance.comIG: https://www.instagram.com/justinsjones/Website: https://assembleperformance.com/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@justinjonesfitness

Mar 4, 2025 • 54min
Navigating Parenthood and Fitness: A Conversation with Ariana Scalfo
Welcome back to the Assemble Performance Podcast! This episode features Ariana Scalfo, a repeat guest from 2023, who is the Director of Coaching at Complete Human Performance. We discuss her journey as a mom, athlete, and coach, delving into the challenges of balancing training with parenting. Ariana opens up about her experience with the Hybricon Games, the pressures of staying active during pregnancy, and the impact of social media on our perceptions of fitness and parenting. We also explore the importance of making decisions and managing busyness, all while maintaining a healthy approach to achieving goals. Tune in to gain valuable insights from Ariana's multifaceted life and coaching philosophy.Get in touch with Ariana: https://www.instagram.com/ariana.scalfo/Check out all CHP has to offer: https://www.completehumanperformance.com/Apply For Coaching: https://form.jotform.com/243302394225147Contact Me: justin@assembleperformance.comIG: https://www.instagram.com/justinsjones/Website: https://assembleperformance.com/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@justinjonesfitness

Dec 17, 2024 • 24min
Common Hybrid Training Mistakes And How To Avoid Them
Welcome back to another episode of the Assemble Performance Podcast. In this episode, I dive into the top three mistakes people make with hybrid training and how to avoid them. Drawing from my experience as a hybrid athlete and coach, I discuss the misconceptions of hybrid training, why they occur, and how you can navigate them to achieve your fitness goals. We’ll explore the integration of strength and endurance training, the importance of prioritizing quality over quantity, and avoiding the trap of making metrics the goal. Whether you’re new to hybrid training or looking to refine your approach, this episode offers valuable insights to help you succeed. Also, if you’re looking for more personalized guidance, tune in to learn about how you can schedule a free strategy call with me. Let’s get into it!00:00 Introduction and Overview00:46 Understanding Hybrid Training01:42 Common Misconceptions About Hybrid Training05:15 Creating an Effective Hybrid Training Program09:58 Mistake 1: Treating Strength and Endurance Separately12:51 Mistake 2: Prioritizing Quantity Over Quality17:06 Mistake 3: Making Metrics the Goal22:40 Conclusion and Further ResourcesApply For Coaching: https://form.jotform.com/243302394225147Contact Me: justin@assembleperformance.comIG: https://www.instagram.com/justinsjones/Website: https://assembleperformance.com/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@justinjonesfitness

Dec 10, 2024 • 58min
Athlete Interview: How Tanner Overcame Injury To Run His First Marathon
In this first athlete interview episode of the Assemble Performance Podcast, I sit down with one of my athletes, Tanner Clark. We've been working together since July, and in just four months, Tanner has completed his first marathon, crushed his goal by 12 minutes, added 20 pounds to his back squat, and hit his previous deadlift PR for a set of three. Tanner shares his journey, from an unstructured fitness regimen to overcoming a knee injury and excelling in both running and strength training. He also discusses the importance of consistency, the mental shift required for training success, and the value of coaching in achieving and surpassing fitness goals. Join us as Tanner offers insights and experiences that could inspire your own athletic journey.00:00 Introduction and Excitement for the Interview00:09 Meet Tanner Clark: Athlete Background01:46 Tanner's Fitness Journey and Marathon Training06:50 Dealing with Knee Injury and Adjusting Training10:05 Initial Skepticism and Realizing Progress19:20 Consistency and Adaptability in Training26:58 Achieving Marathon Goals and Reflections30:21 Post-Race Reflections and Strength Training Achievements31:21 Balancing Strength Training with Marathon Prep33:05 Favorite Workouts and Peak Training Moments34:16 The 16-Mile Run: A Turning Point36:36 Travel Challenges and Marathon Tapering39:00 Fueling Strategies and Their Impact43:00 Crossing the Finish Line: Reflections and Lessons44:54 The Influence of a Coach and Life Lessons49:20 Future Goals and Hybrid Training51:07 Advice for Aspiring Athletes and the Value of Coaching56:25 Final Thoughts and GratitudeApply For Coaching: https://form.jotform.com/243302394225147Contact Me: justin@assembleperformance.comIG: https://www.instagram.com/justinsjones/Website: https://assembleperformance.com/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@justinjonesfitness

Dec 3, 2024 • 26min
How To Train As A Tactical Athlete | Training For Selection Or On The Job
In this episode of the Assemble Performance Podcast, we dive deep into training for tactical athletes, whether they’re preparing for an academy, a selection course, or already on the job in roles such as law enforcement, firefighting, military, or emergency response. I discuss how hybrid training applies to tactical athletes, noting both similarities and differences compared to traditional training. We explore the definition of a tactical athlete, training strategies, and the unique requirements for those on the job versus those training for specific courses. Key points include the importance of building muscular endurance, aerobic capacity, and strength, while also considering the dynamic schedules and high demands these athletes face. I also share personal insights and strategies to balance training with job readiness and optimize recovery.00:00 Introduction to Tactical Athlete Training01:20 Defining the Tactical Athlete05:32 Training for Selection Courses11:24 Training for On-the-Job Tactical Athletes16:26 Strategies for Effective Training21:51 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsApply For Coaching: https://form.jotform.com/243302394225147Contact Me: justin@assembleperformance.comIG: https://www.instagram.com/justinsjones/Website: https://assembleperformance.com/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@justinjonesfitness

Nov 26, 2024 • 26min
How To Use Data & Wearables In Your Training
Welcome to another episode of the Assemble Performance Podcast! In this episode, we dive deep into the world of data and wearables and how they can optimize your training, whether you're into hybrid, endurance, or strength training. I often get questions about Garmin, Whoop bands, Apple Watches, and Oura Rings from my followers on Instagram and my athletes, so I decided to break it all down. We'll explore various wearables from brands like Amazfit, Koros, and Garmin, and discuss their pros and cons. We'll also delve into the difference between a data-first approach and a subjective-first approach, and how to strike a balance between the two. Whether you're just tracking your steps or logging detailed metrics, this episode will help you make sense of all the data and use it to enhance your performance. Don't miss the practical tips and insights I share based on my experience as a coach and athlete. Tune in for a comprehensive discussion that's sure to add value to your training regimen!00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:33 Overview of Wearables and Data02:20 Data-First Approach Explained04:36 Pros and Cons of Data-First Approach07:05 Non-Data Approach Explained08:11 Pros and Cons of Non-Data Approach09:47 Blending Data and Subjective Measures10:30 Accuracy and Limitations of Wearables18:34 Practical Tips for Using Data in Training22:12 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsApply For Coaching: https://form.jotform.com/243302394225147Contact Me: justin@assembleperformance.comIG: https://www.instagram.com/justinsjones/Website: https://assembleperformance.com/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@justinjonesfitness

Nov 19, 2024 • 38min
How To Balance Training With Life
In this episode of the Assemble Performance Podcast, I discuss how to balance training with a busy everyday life. As someone who is also managing multiple responsibilities, including triathlon and strength training, parenting, coaching, and a full-time job, I share my own strategies and experiences. We delve into the impacts of curated social media content on our expectations, the importance of setting realistic goals, and actionable strategies such as time audits and blocking. Additionally, I emphasize the significance of mindset, particularly focusing on learning from the 'man in the arena' philosophy. Join me as I share insights and practical tips for achieving balance and success in training while navigating the complexities of ordinary life.00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview00:03 Balancing Training with Everyday Life00:23 The Reality of Social Media Influencers01:04 Personal Struggles and Authenticity02:31 Current Personal Challenges06:12 The Importance of Mindset14:42 Reevaluating Goals and Availability19:04 Intentional Time Management19:43 Time Audits: Tracking Your Time Effectively21:04 Time Blocking: Organizing Your Calendar22:43 Setting Boundaries: Balancing Work and Life24:02 Training Strategies: Setting Realistic Goals26:51 Overcoming Challenges: Staying Motivated30:10 Problem Solving: Becoming a Better Problem Solver35:20 Closing Thoughts: Imperfect Action and AdaptationApply For Coaching: https://form.jotform.com/243302394225147Contact Me: justin@assembleperformance.comIG: https://www.instagram.com/justinsjones/Website: https://assembleperformance.com/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@justinjonesfitness

Nov 12, 2024 • 32min
Why Should You Hybrid Train? Health, Performance, and More
Welcome back to another episode of the Assemble Performance Podcast with me, Justin Jones. Today's episode is all about hybrid training. In this solo podcast, I dive into what hybrid training is, why it’s beneficial, and who it’s for. Whether you're new to hybrid training, looking into it for the first time, or are already hybrid training and want to know more, this episode is a comprehensive guide. We'll cover everything from the health benefits like increased strength, lean muscle mass, and cardiovascular improvements to non-health benefits such as community experiences and mental toughness. I’ll also discuss its importance for tactical athletes. Stick around for an in-depth breakdown and find out why hybrid training might be your best path to overall fitness.00:00 Introduction to Hybrid Training01:11 Defining Hybrid Training04:21 Health Benefits of Strength Training11:45 Health Benefits of Endurance Training18:24 Combining Strength and Endurance: Hybrid Training21:35 Non-Health Benefits of Hybrid Training29:23 Conclusion and ResourcesApply For Coaching: https://form.jotform.com/243302394225147Contact Me: justin@assembleperformance.comIG: https://www.instagram.com/justinsjones/Website: https://assembleperformance.com/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@justinjonesfitness

Nov 5, 2024 • 19min
Why You Need Carbs: Fueling for Performance and Fat Loss
Welcome to another episode of the Assemble Performance Podcast! In this episode, I dive into the importance of carbohydrates for everyone, whether you're aiming to lose body fat or boost performance in strength, endurance, or hybrid training. I debunk common myths, explain how our bodies use carbs for energy, and discuss the implications of cutting them out of your diet. Learn how to fuel effectively, maintain muscle mass, and enhance athletic performance by understanding the essential role that carbs play. Don't forget to check the description for a link to my fueling guide for more detailed information. Thanks for tuning in!Comment "FUELING" below this post to get my fueling guide:https://www.instagram.com/p/DB4JajpSFme/?img_index=100:00 Introduction to Carbohydrates00:57 Understanding Carbohydrates02:05 Energy Conversion and Carbs05:45 Carbs vs. Fats and Proteins07:54 Carbs in a Calorie Deficit10:35 Carbs for Performance14:31 Addressing Common Questions17:17 Conclusion and Further ResourcesApply For Coaching: https://form.jotform.com/243302394225147Contact Me: justin@assembleperformance.comIG: https://www.instagram.com/justinsjones/Website: https://assembleperformance.com/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@justinjonesfitness

Oct 29, 2024 • 1h 2min
The Power Of Mindset with Alex Mcbrairty
In this episode, I sit down with Alex McBrairty, an inspiring online coach with a psychology background and a personal story of transformation that’s deeply relatable. From losing over 80 pounds as a teenager to launching A Team Fitness, Alex shares how he turned his own challenges into a mission to help others. Together, we unpack the power of mindset, diving into topics like fixed vs. growth mindsets, the psychological keys to motivation, and how core values fuel sustainable fitness. Join me as we explore the connection between mental and physical health, discuss overcoming setbacks, and discover what it takes to build resilience in your fitness journey and beyond.Get In Touch With Alex:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_ateamfit_/Mindset Makeover Video: https://youtu.be/FP-ed7bjmL8?si=jJ-SqYU0y-JPvAruNewsletter: https://ateamfit.substack.comWebsite: https://ateamfit.comApply For Coaching: https://form.jotform.com/243302394225147Contact Me: justin@assembleperformance.comIG: https://www.instagram.com/justinsjones/Website: https://assembleperformance.com/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@justinjonesfitness
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