Assemble Performance Podcast

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/Contact Me IG: https://www.instagram.com/justinsjones/ Email: justin@assembleperformance.com Website: https://assembleperformance.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@justinjonesfitness

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.Contact Me IG: https://www.instagram.com/justinsjones/ Email: justin@assembleperformance.com Website: https://assembleperformance.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@justinjonesfitness

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/Contact Me IG: https://www.instagram.com/justinsjones/ Email: justin@assembleperformance.com Website: https://assembleperformance.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@justinjonesfitness

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/Contact Me IG: https://www.instagram.com/justinsjones/ Email: justin@assembleperformance.com Website: https://assembleperformance.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@justinjonesfitness

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/Contact Me IG: https://www.instagram.com/justinsjones/ Email: justin@assembleperformance.com Website: https://assembleperformance.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@justinjonesfitness

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 ResourcesContact Me IG: https://www.instagram.com/justinsjones/ Email: justin@assembleperformance.com Website: https://assembleperformance.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@justinjonesfitness

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 GratitudeContact Me IG: https://www.instagram.com/justinsjones/ Email: justin@assembleperformance.com Website: https://assembleperformance.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@justinjonesfitness

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 ThoughtsContact Me IG: https://www.instagram.com/justinsjones/ Email: justin@assembleperformance.com Website: https://assembleperformance.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@justinjonesfitness

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 ThoughtsContact Me IG: https://www.instagram.com/justinsjones/ Email: justin@assembleperformance.com Website: https://assembleperformance.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@justinjonesfitness

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 AdaptationContact Me IG: https://www.instagram.com/justinsjones/ Email: justin@assembleperformance.com Website: https://assembleperformance.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@justinjonesfitness