
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

Jun 24, 2025 • 31min
The Rise of Hybrid Training: Why Combining Strength and Endurance Is the Future
Welcome to another episode of the Assemble Performance Podcast! In this solo episode, I dive deep into the concept of hybrid training: what it is, why it's become so popular, and why it's truly the future of fitness. Starting with the origins of hybrid training as defined by Alex Viada, I discuss its growth over the last decade and what makes it increasingly appealing today. I outline the four main reasons for its rise, from influencers to the accessibility of hybrid events. I also talk about the one downside of hybrid training for elite athletes and contrast this with the numerous upsides like improved performance, enjoyment, and better health outcomes. Towards the end, I share practical advice on how you can start hybrid training and offer a free four-week training plan as well as a more detailed 12-week program, Hybrid 101, for those ready to dive in. Don't miss this comprehensive guide to making hybrid training work for you and achieving greater strength, endurance, and overall life satisfaction.Get 4 FREE Weeks of Hybrid Training: https://assembleperformance.com/4-week-training-plan-page12 Weeks Of Hybrid Training For New Hybrid Athletes: https://assembleperformance.com/hybrid101Get 4 FREE Weeks of Hybrid Training: https://assembleperformance.com/4-week-training-plan-page Contact Me IG: https://www.instagram.com/justinsjones/ Email: justin@assembleperformance.com Website: https://assembleperformance.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@justinjonesfitness

Jun 17, 2025 • 35min
Train for a Life Without Limits: How to Build Confidence, Capability, and Say Yes More Often
Welcome to another episode of the Assemble Performance Podcast! In this solo episode, I dive deep into the transformative power of hybrid training and how it can help you live a fuller, more confident life. I share my passionate journey about starting Assemble Performance, the holistic approach to training, and the importance of mindset, community, and life fulfillment. You'll hear a moving testimonial from my athlete Tanner, which encapsulates the broader impacts of training well beyond physical fitness. I discuss practical tips for general physical preparation, reflecting on your training, and overcoming mental barriers to achieve your goals. Plus, I cover the concept of 'Yes Threshold' and the 'Energy Ripple Effect'—detailing how these ideas can reshape your life and make you a more action-oriented person. If you're ready to make meaningful changes and take action today, this episode is a must-listen!Get 4 FREE Weeks of Hybrid Training: https://assembleperformance.com/4-week-training-plan-page Contact Me IG: https://www.instagram.com/justinsjones/ Email: justin@assembleperformance.com Website: https://assembleperformance.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@justinjonesfitness

Jun 10, 2025 • 22min
How To Stop Muscle Soreness
Welcome to another episode of the Assemble Performance Podcast! In this solo episode, I dive deep into delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), explaining what it is, how to mitigate it, and its impact on your training. Inspired by questions from my recent seminar 'Strength Training for Runners,' I break down why DOMS occurs and offer actionable strategies to manage it effectively. Whether you are a runner, strength athlete, or just someone looking to stay healthy, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Don't forget to subscribe to stay updated on future episodes!Get 4 FREE Weeks of Hybrid Training: https://assembleperformance.com/4-week-training-plan-page Contact Me IG: https://www.instagram.com/justinsjones/ Email: justin@assembleperformance.com Website: https://assembleperformance.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@justinjonesfitness

Jun 3, 2025 • 39min
Strength Training For Runners: Answering your questions
Welcome to another episode of the Assemble Performance Podcast! In this solo episode, I answer your most pressing questions about strength training for runners. Collected from my email list and Instagram, these questions cover a range of topics—from why runners should incorporate strength training, to how to start, to the optimal exercises for performance and injury prevention. I also dive into the science behind running economy, share a free four-week strength training plan, and discuss the right way to combine running and lifting within your training schedule. Don't miss out on this comprehensive guide to optimizing your running with strength training.4 Weeks of FREE Strength Training For Runners: https://assembleperformance.com/4-week-training-plan-pageGet 4 FREE Weeks of Hybrid Training: https://assembleperformance.com/4-week-training-plan-page Contact Me IG: https://www.instagram.com/justinsjones/ Email: justin@assembleperformance.com Website: https://assembleperformance.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@justinjonesfitness

May 27, 2025 • 55min
(Repost)Training = Healthcare, Injury Rehab, Load Management, and more with Katie Dabrowski
I lost my voice this week right when I was planning on recording! Enjoy this reposted podcast episode with Dr. Katie Dabrowski in preparation for her second interview coming soon!In this episode I sat down with Katie Dabrowski, a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), a strength and conditioning specialist, and the co-owner of Old Bull Athletics. She is also a neuroscience professor at Nova Southeastern University. With a background in collegiate rowing and research in the field of neuroscience, Katie brings a unique perspective to her work in physical therapy and strength training. She is passionate about individualized care, load management, and the integration of rehab and training.In this episode Katie shares her journey from being a collegiate rower to becoming a physical therapist and neuroscience professor. She discusses the importance of strength training in rowing and how it shaped her career path. Katie also explains why she chose a cash-based model for her practice and the challenges of the insurance model in physical therapy. She emphasizes the need for individualized care and the impact of psychosocial factors on pain and injury. Katie shares her approach to rehab and training, focusing on load management and helping clients achieve their goals.Get In Touch With Katie:https://www.instagram.com/ktdabrowski/https://www.instagram.com/oldbullathletics/Get 4 FREE Weeks of Hybrid Training: https://assembleperformance.com/4-week-training-plan-page Contact Me IG: https://www.instagram.com/justinsjones/ Email: justin@assembleperformance.com Website: https://assembleperformance.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@justinjonesfitness

May 20, 2025 • 33min
What Metrics Actually Matter for Progress (and What to Ignore)
In this solo episode, I dive deep into one of the most common questions I get from athletes and clients alike: "How do I know I'm making progress?"Whether you're a runner, lifter, or hybrid athlete, it's easy to get caught up in the wrong metrics. The flashy stuff that looks good on Strava but doesn’t actually tell you the full story. So today, we’re cutting through the noise.I’ll break down:Which metrics don’t matter as much as you thinkWhat metrics actually reflect progressWhy subjective tools like RPE (Rate of Perceived Exertion) might be better than any number on your watchHow to shift your mindset for long-term performance gainsAnd a practical challenge you can try this month to check your progress without getting stuck in the weeds.Plus, I share some personal updates, including training and life changes as I finish a weight cut and jump back into coursework.If you find this helpful, please consider subscribing, leaving a rating or review, and sharing the episode with a friend who’s stuck chasing the wrong numbers.Get 4 FREE Weeks of Hybrid Training: https://assembleperformance.com/4-week-training-plan-page Contact Me IG: https://www.instagram.com/justinsjones/ Email: justin@assembleperformance.com Website: https://assembleperformance.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@justinjonesfitness

May 13, 2025 • 58min
Bridging Pharmacy & Functional Medicine with Dr. Ashley Dwyer
In this episode of the Assemble Performance podcast I speak with Dr. Ashley Dwyer, a pharmacist who transitioned to holistic health coaching after her own health journey. As a University of Florida College of Pharmacy graduate, shares her career transition from traditional western medicine to founding her own company focused on holistic healing. We discuss the diverse roles pharmacists can have, her experience as a former NPC athlete, and how severe lifestyle habits can impact health. She addresses the importance of mindset and behavior change in achieving health goals and emphasizes the need for stress management, hormone health, and proper nutrition. She also highlights the role of education in empowering clients. Tune in to learn more about the intersection of traditional and holistic health approaches.Contact Dr. Ashley Dwyer:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.dwyer/Website: https://teambdncoaching.com/Get 4 FREE Weeks of Hybrid Training: https://assembleperformance.com/4-week-training-plan-page Contact Me IG: https://www.instagram.com/justinsjones/ Email: justin@assembleperformance.com Website: https://assembleperformance.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@justinjonesfitness

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/Get 4 FREE Weeks of Hybrid Training: https://assembleperformance.com/4-week-training-plan-page Contact Me IG: https://www.instagram.com/justinsjones/ Email: justin@assembleperformance.com 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/Get 4 FREE Weeks of Hybrid Training: https://assembleperformance.com/4-week-training-plan-page Contact Me IG: https://www.instagram.com/justinsjones/ Email: justin@assembleperformance.com 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 ResourcesGet 4 FREE Weeks of Hybrid Training: https://assembleperformance.com/4-week-training-plan-page Contact Me IG: https://www.instagram.com/justinsjones/ Email: justin@assembleperformance.com Website: https://assembleperformance.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@justinjonesfitness