

Assemble Performance Podcast
Justin Jones
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 5, 2025 • 23min
Identifying & Addressing Red Flags In Coaching
Book a free consult call: https://calendly.com/assembleperfomance/coach-justin-consultIn this solo episode, I wrap up our 4 part miniseries on client onboarding by discussing the red flags I look for within the first few weeks of coaching. These 'red flags' include issues like poor communication, missing sessions, and having a perfectionist mindset, among others.I go in-depth on each point, offering insights into how I address these challenges and work to help clients overcome them. If you're interested in my coaching approach or want to book a free consult call, find the link in the description. Don't miss the final part of this comprehensive guide to the client onboarding process.Book a free consult call: https://calendly.com/assembleperfomance/coach-justin-consultContact Me IG: https://www.instagram.com/justinsjones/ Email: justin@assembleperformance.com Website: https://assembleperformance.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@justinjonesfitness

Jul 29, 2025 • 23min
How To Be Successful When Hiring A Coach
Book a free consult call: https://calendly.com/assembleperfomance/coach-justin-consultIn this episode, I continue my series on client onboarding by discussing the key traits and behaviors I'm looking for in the first few weeks to gauge whether a client will do well. I cover the importance of motivation, communication, vulnerability, celebrating wins, curiosity about the process, and being coachable. These factors help build a strong coaching relationship focused on personalized and effective training plans. I also touch on the significance of seeing failures as opportunities for growth and the necessity of having a growth mindset. Whether you're a prospective client or someone interested in coaching dynamics, this episode offers valuable insights into the foundational elements of a successful coaching relationship.Book a free consult call: https://calendly.com/assembleperfomance/coach-justin-consultContact Me IG: https://www.instagram.com/justinsjones/ Email: justin@assembleperformance.com Website: https://assembleperformance.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@justinjonesfitness

Jul 22, 2025 • 22min
What I Look For In New Clients
Book a free consult call: https://calendly.com/assembleperfomance/coach-justin-consultIn this solo episode, I dive into what I look for when onboarding a new client. From assessing their goals to whether those goals align with my expertise, I cover it all. Learn why not every client is a good fit and the criteria that help identify the right coaching relationships. Plus, I'll share why a solid coaching relationship is crucial for achieving the best results. Whether you're a potential client or another coach, this episode offers valuable insights into effective client selection for optimal outcomes.00:00 Intro03:21 – 1. Do You Know Where You Want to Go?04:30 – 2. Is Your Goal Something I Can Help With?08:34 – 3. Can I Help With the Blockers In Your Way?11:13 – 4. Are You Open to Change?12:55 – 5. This Is The MOST Important One15:17 – 6. Are You Willing to Share Life Stressors?16:05 – 7. Do You Know Me & Align With How I Coach?17:33 – 8. Are You Open to Uncomfortable Change for Growth?Contact Me IG: https://www.instagram.com/justinsjones/ Email: justin@assembleperformance.com Website: https://assembleperformance.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@justinjonesfitness

Jul 15, 2025 • 19min
How I Onboard New Clients (Step-by-Step Process)
In this solo episode, I’m kicking off a mini-series on what the first few weeks of coaching look like with me. This episode will break down exactly how I onboard new coaching clients. Whether you're a coach refining your systems or an athlete considering coaching, I’m giving you a transparent look at my full onboarding flow from the consult call to personalized check-ins and long-term planning.You’ll hear how I make sure coaching is rooted in real human connection, how I adapt training week to week based on your life and feedback, and how I help align your training goals with a deeper sense of purpose. If you’ve been curious about what it’s like to work with me, this episode is for you.Book a free consult call: https://calendly.com/assembleperfomance/coach-justin-consultContact Me IG: https://www.instagram.com/justinsjones/ Email: justin@assembleperformance.com Website: https://assembleperformance.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@justinjonesfitness

Jul 8, 2025 • 26min
How to Cut Body Fat While Training: Calorie Deficits for Hybrid Athletes
Grab the free Fueling Guide PDF: https://assembleperformance.com/fueling-guide-pageIn this episode of the Assemble Performance Podcast, I break down how to approach a calorie deficit without sabotaging your strength, endurance, or hybrid training goals. Whether you're a hybrid athlete, a runner trying to lean out, or a lifter looking to get shredded, this episode gives you the practical, evidence-based framework to fuel properly while still losing fat.You’ll learn:What a calorie deficit really isHow energy intake and expenditure affect performanceThe difference between dieting during strength vs. endurance trainingWhy hybrid athletes can eat more and still lose fatCommon fat loss mistakesMy coaching process for nutrition assessment and fat lossWhy behavior change is the real battle—and what to do about itGrab the free Fueling Guide PDF: https://assembleperformance.com/fueling-guide-pageWant 1-on-1 coaching to dial in your training and nutrition? Email or DM me below.Contact Me IG: https://www.instagram.com/justinsjones/ Email: justin@assembleperformance.com Website: https://assembleperformance.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@justinjonesfitness

Jul 1, 2025 • 1h 10min
Is Pain All in Your Head? The Science Behind Recovery and Resilience with Katie Dabrowski
In this episode, I sat down with Katie Dabrowski to explore the relationship between neuroscience, psychology, and injury rehab. We discussed how pain is not just a physical sensation but a complex experience influenced by emotional states, past experiences, and neuroplasticity. We also touched on the importance of movement, progressive overload, and understanding the psychological aspects of pain management. We closed out the episode with a discussion about the future of training as healthcare and the need for a holistic approach to rehab that goes beyond just addressing pain.TakeawaysNeuroscience and psychology are crucial in understanding rehab.Pain is a complex experience influenced by many factors.Neuroplasticity allows the brain to adapt and recover from injuries.Experiences shape our pain perception and responses.Understanding pain can reduce anxiety and improve outcomes.Movement is essential in managing pain and building resilience.Progressive overload applies to both physical and emotional challenges.Fear of pain can lead to avoidance and further issues.Building confidence through manageable challenges is key.The future of rehab should focus on holistic health, not just pain.Get In Touch With Katie: https://www.instagram.com/ktdabrowski/Old Bull Athletics: https://www.instagram.com/oldbullathletics/Contact Me IG: https://www.instagram.com/justinsjones/ Email: justin@assembleperformance.com Website: https://assembleperformance.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@justinjonesfitness

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/hybrid101Contact 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!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!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-pageContact Me IG: https://www.instagram.com/justinsjones/ Email: justin@assembleperformance.com Website: https://assembleperformance.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@justinjonesfitness