

Elite Trainer Academy
Kyle Pullin
The Elite Trainer Podcast is hosted by Kyle Pullin, a coach mentored by Sal, Adam, and Justin from Mind Pump and now leading the growth of their personal training business. This show is for fitness coaches who want to sharpen their skills, grow a real business, and impact more lives. Whether you're new to training or looking to level up, you'll get proven strategies, honest insights, and the tools to stand out in a crowded industry.
Episodes
Mentioned books

14 snips
Sep 1, 2025 • 40min
EP 08: How to Build a Loyal Client Base That Never Leaves
In this engaging discussion, Sal Di Stefano, a seasoned fitness industry expert and co-host of Mind Pump, dives into the critical art of client retention. He emphasizes that strong relationships and a positive gym culture are key to keeping clients loyal. Sal shares insights on the importance of likability, adaptability, and empathy in coaching. He explains how creating a welcoming environment and navigating tough conversations gracefully can lead to clients who stick around for years, making this a must-listen for trainers who want to build lasting connections.

12 snips
Aug 25, 2025 • 46min
EP 07: The ROI of Fast Decisions w/ Adam Schafer
Adam Schafer, co-host of Mind Pump and fitness expert, shares his journey in managing time and making fast decisions crucial for business growth. He emphasizes the difference between top performers and overthinkers, revealing how speed of execution can lead to success. Adam discusses learning from early mistakes, the importance of knowing when to pivot, and measuring ROI. He also tackles the myth of work-life balance, advocating for intentional sprints that lead to freedom later, making this a must-listen for aspiring trainers.

9 snips
Aug 18, 2025 • 46min
Ep 06: What Trainers Need to Know Before Going Independent with Justin Andrews
Justin Andrews, a former personal trainer at 24 Hour Fitness and now a thriving independent coach, shares his journey of building a successful training business. He discusses the importance of finding clients, utilizing early lead generation tactics like referrals, and mastering SEO and ad copy. Justin emphasizes listening to clients as a superpower for trainers and highlights how embracing failure can fuel growth and innovation. He also explores enhancing client experiences and building referral networks for sustained business success.

13 snips
Aug 11, 2025 • 34min
Ep 05: Sal DiStefano Talks About Why Your Clients Won’t Listen (and How to Fix It)
In this discussion, Sal DiStefano, a fitness veteran and co-host of Mind Pump, shares essential strategies for personal trainers dealing with clients who resist advice. He emphasizes the importance of building trust and strong relationships before pushing for results. Sal explores navigating complex client situations with empathy, the significance of small, manageable health changes, and how to foster nutritional awareness without rigid tracking. He advocates for coaching that empowers clients to make lasting changes on their own terms.

11 snips
Aug 4, 2025 • 26min
EP 04: The Business Side of Training: Set Yourself Up Right
Doug Egge, a financial expert from Mind Pump, joins to help personal trainers navigate the tricky business side of their careers. He shares vital insights on choosing the right business structure, like LLC versus sole proprietorship, and explains when it’s beneficial to elect S-Corp status. Doug discusses common tax pitfalls to avoid and highlights the top deductions trainers can claim. Listeners will also learn the importance of organized finances, effective expense tracking, and how a good CPA can make a difference.

10 snips
Jul 28, 2025 • 50min
EP 03: What Separates the Top 1% of Personal Trainers
In this discussion, Adam Schafer, co-host of Mind Pump and a seasoned trainer, shares his expertise on building a successful training business. He emphasizes the importance of the 'learn phase' over the 'earn phase' and discusses the fear of rejection that trainers often face. Adam offers insight into the traits of high-performing trainers, including effective communication and humility. He also talks about the significance of cultivating a values-driven culture and leveraging teamwork to enhance growth and success in the industry.

15 snips
Jul 21, 2025 • 48min
EP 02: What Every New Trainer Needs to Learn About Programming with Justin Andrews | Elite Trainer Academy
Justin Andrews, a strength and conditioning expert from Mind Pump, joins the conversation to highlight the often-overlooked importance of rotational and lateral movements in training. He discusses how these exercises enhance joint stability and prevent injuries, especially for everyday clients. Justin also shares insights on avoiding gimmicky workouts, stressing that simplicity and intention should guide programming choices. The importance of practical experience and mentorship in building effective coaching skills is also emphasized, making this a vital resource for new trainers.

7 snips
Jul 14, 2025 • 20min
EP 01: Why Most Trainers Fail — And What the Great Ones Do Differently with Sal Di Stefano
Sal Di Stefano, co-host of the fitness podcast Mind Pump, shares invaluable insights from his years in the industry. He discusses why passion for people outweighs mere fitness skills, emphasizing the necessity of mentorship in shaping successful trainers. The conversation addresses common pitfalls, like transitioning too quickly into online training, and the importance of building strong client relationships. Di Stefano also tackles imposter syndrome, encouraging trainers to embrace vulnerability and tenacity for a sustainable career in fitness.