
Best Hour of Their Day | Podcast
Hosted by Jason Ackerman and Jason Fernandez, Best Hour of Their Day is a podcast dedicated to helping the CrossFit community. We cover all aspects of fitness including coaching, training, competing, starting and growing a business, and everything in between. Regular guests include world-class athletes, some of the best Coaches in the world, fitness entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and more.
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Latest episodes

Nov 27, 2024 • 42min
761. How This Garage Gym Grew into a Full-Fledged CrossFit Affiliate | Greater Culture CrossFit
Brad Marshall started his CrossFit gym in a two-car garage and successfully transitioned to taking over an established affiliate. Brad shares the challenges of scaling from a small, intimate community to a thriving commercial space, the importance of building culture, and lessons learned in creating a sustainable business. Tune in to hear how passion and strategic decisions turned a garage gym into a vibrant affiliate with over 80 members.
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Looking to boost revenue at your CrossFit Affiliate?
CLICK HERE to Grab the FREE “Raise Prices Without Pissing Off Your Members” Mini-Course
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CLICK HERE to learn more about Affiliate University
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CLICK HERE to learn more about Push Press Gym Software
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0:00 - Introduction
1:12 - Meet Brad Marshall: The Story Behind Greater Culture CrossFit
3:02 - Garage Beginnings: Building a Gym Community at Home
6:07 - The Garage Gym Setup: Growth, Challenges, and Creative Solutions
7:28 - Taking Over an Affiliate: Navigating the Transition Process
9:56 - Growing Membership: From 30 Members to Over 80 in 7 Months
13:00 - Establishing Culture: The Role of Communication and Connection
19:00 - Rebranding and Renovating: Creating a Fresh Start for Members
22:40 - Pricing Adjustments: Managing Member Expectations and Revenue
29:10 - Programming Changes: Shifting to a New Coaching Philosophy
35:10 - Building a Thriving Culture: Language, Leadership, and Community
39:03 - Reflecting on Growth: Lessons Learned from Garage to Affiliate

Nov 25, 2024 • 54min
BTK 017 Surviving a Heart Attack: Andy Hendel Proves the Power of CrossFit and Fitness
After suffering a life-threatening heart attack, Andy Hendel’s decades of fitness and commitment to CrossFit played a crucial role in his survival and recovery. From his time in the NFL to coaching on CrossFit Seminar Staff, Andy’s resilience and fitness prepared him to overcome the odds. His story is a powerful testament to how a lifestyle of health and movement can save lives.
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CLICK HERE TO LEVEL UP YOUR COACHING INSIDE THE KNOWLEDGE PRO
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CLICK HERE TO UNLOCK THE FREE WORLD-CLASS COACH EVALUATION
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0:00 - Introduction
0:40 - Meet Andy Hendel
3:00 - The Early Coaching Journey and Lessons Learned
7:10 - Discovering CrossFit and Starting an Affiliate
12:00 - Building CrossFit Charlotte: The Early Days
16:45 - Transitioning from Athlete to Coach
23:00 - The Importance of Lifelong Learning in Coaching
33:00 - The Day Everything Changed: Andy’s Heart Attack Story
39:15 - How Fitness and CrossFit Helped Andy Survive
43:00 - Recovery and Getting Back to the Gym
46:50 - Life Lessons and Advice After a Heart Attack
51:00 - Inspiring Others Through Resilience and Coaching

Nov 20, 2024 • 11min
760. What Gym Owners Should Know Before Buying an Ice Barrel
Thinking about buying an Ice Barrel for your gym? This video breaks down the pros, cons, and business impact of adding cold therapy to your gym's recovery services. Learn how to maximize the benefits for your members while deciding if it’s the right investment for your Affiliate.
--
Looking to boost revenue at your CrossFit Affiliate?
Grab the FREE “Raise Prices Without Pissing Off Your Members” Mini-Course
--
CLICK HERE to learn more about Affiliate University
--
CLICK HERE to learn more about Push Press Gym Software
--
CLICK HERE to learn more about Ice Barrel and cold therapy

Nov 18, 2024 • 44min
BTK 016. Behind the Red Shirt: The Path to CrossFit Seminar Staff | Josh Melendez
This episode of Behind the Knowledge dives into the inspiring journey of Coach Josh Melendez, from his early days as a novice CrossFit coach to earning a Level 4 credential and joining CrossFit Seminar Staff. Through resilience, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of feedback and education, Josh shares valuable lessons on overcoming challenges, building trust, and becoming a leader in the coaching world.
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LEVEL UP YOUR COACHING INSIDE THE KNOWLEDGE PRO
https://www.besthouroftheirday.com/theknowledge
--
FREE WORLD-CLASS COACH EVALUATION
https://www.besthouroftheirday.com/world-class-coach-evaluation
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0:00 - Introduction
0:55 - osh Melendez: Level 4 Coach and Seminar Staff
5:09 - First Coaching Experience: From Athlete to Leader
6:22 - The Impact of the CrossFit Level 1 Certification
8:18 - Becoming a Gym Owner: Transitioning from Coach to Business Leader
9:54 - Deep Dive into Coaching Education and Online Courses
11:02 - Key Takeaways from the CrossFit Level 2 Certification
13:19 - Restructuring Programming and Gaining Athlete Trust
17:02 - Continuous Learning: Online Courses, Certifications, and Mentorship
21:08 - The Road to the CrossFit Level 3 Credential
25:03 - Internship Challenges and Lessons with Seminar Staff
29:10 - Overcoming Feedback and Building Resilience
33:09 - Achieving the CrossFit Level 4 Credential
34:48 - Joining Seminar Staff: The Reward of Persistence
38:18 - Building a Culture of Development with Coaching Staff
42:26 - Final Reflections: The Power of Perseverance and Leading by Example

Nov 15, 2024 • 22min
759. 3 Essential Questions Every Affiliate Must Answer to Succeed
Fern dives into the "3 Essential Questions" every CrossFit Affiliate Owner must answer to build a successful gym. These foundational questions help clarify your business purpose, define the game you’re playing, and ensure you’re on the right track for long-term growth. Discover how addressing these critical points can close the strategy gap and set your affiliate up to thrive.
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Grab the “Raise Prices Without Pissing Off Your Members” Mini-Course
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BOOK A FREE CALL & LEARN HOW TO GROW YOUR AFFILIATE
https://www.besthouroftheirday.com/affiliate-university
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LEARN MORE ABOUT PUSH PRESS GYM SOFTWARE
https://www.pushpress.com

Nov 13, 2024 • 53min
758. How to Increase Your Gym Membership Rates Without Losing Members
Jason and Fern dive into the topic of gym rate increases, covering why they’re essential for sustainable growth and how to approach them effectively. They share insights on preparing members, communicating value, and navigating potential pushback to help CrossFit Affiliate Owners successfully implement price changes without losing community support. This discussion provides actionable strategies for Affiliate Owners to increase rates confidently while improving the overall member experience.
--
CLICK HERE to grab the “Raise Prices Without Pissing Off Your Members” Mini-Course
--
Learn more about Affiliate Universityhttps://www.besthouroftheirday.com/affiliate-university
--
Learn more about Push Press Gym Softwarehttps://www.pushpress.com
--
0:00 - Introduction
1:21 - The inevitability of raising rates in business
5:02 - Low-ticket versus high-ticket pricing strategies
10:14 - Addressing members on grandfathered rates
16:02 - Recognizing members who support a rate increase silently
18:52 - Keeping up with operating expenses as a reason for rate increases
23:22 - Covering costs for staff, systems, and fulfillment
25:57 - Why value-added improvements make rate increases logical
30:22 - Communication strategies for a smooth rate increase
32:56 - Addressing members’ concerns about increased rates in person
34:36 - Ideal lead time for notifying members about rate changes
37:11 - Real-life scenario: gym acquisition challenges due to poor finances
41:02 - Adapting to uncontrollable external changes in business
46:45 - Strategies for handling member feedback on rate increases

Nov 11, 2024 • 46min
BTK 015. Why Mental Resilience Is Just as Important as Physical Strength | Bill Anthes
In this episode of Behind the Knowledge, Bill Anthes, founder of Between the Ears, discusses why mental resilience is just as essential as physical strength. Bill shares insights from his work helping people unlock their potential through mental and emotional fitness, emphasizing how building mental toughness can transform both athletic performance and everyday life. This conversation is a must-watch for coaches, athletes, and anyone looking to strengthen their mindset.
--
LEVEL UP YOUR COACHING INSIDE THE KNOWLEDGE PRO
https://www.besthouroftheirday.com/theknowledge
--
FREE WORLD-CLASS COACH EVALUATION
https://www.besthouroftheirday.com/world-class-coach-evaluation
--
0:00 - Introduction
2:00 - Bill Anthes' Journey: From Military to Coaching
7:05 - Learning to Adapt Coaching Styles to Different Athletes
14:25 - Founding Between the Ears: Bridging Mind and Body
19:30 - The Importance of Psychological Tolerance in Fitness
27:45 - Balancing Physical Challenges with Mental Resilience
38:45 - Practical Tips for Coaches to Inspire Mental Toughness

Nov 8, 2024 • 25min
757. How CrossFit Coaches Can Get Healthcare Without Traditional Insurance
Discover a new, cost-effective healthcare solution designed specifically for CrossFit coaches and affiliate owners. This program offers affordable coverage without relying on traditional insurance, allowing coaches to access essential health services, proactive care, and mental health support. Learn how this unique option is helping CrossFit professionals stay healthy while saving on medical costs.
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FREE TOOLS and resources for CrossFit Affiliate Owners and Coaches.
https://www.besthouroftheirday.com/affiliate-tools
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Learn more about CommunityCare from the CrossFit Medical Society
https://www.crossfitmedicalsociety.com/communitycare
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Learn more about Push Press Gym Management Software
www.pushpress.com
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Learn more about ComimunityCare from CrossFit Medical Society
https://www.crossfitmedicalsociety.com/communitycare

Nov 6, 2024 • 39min
756. The Real Impact of a Rate Increase: One Gym Owner’s Honest Story | CrossFit Tullahoma
Julia Brown shares her journey of overcoming the fear of raising membership rates at her CrossFit gym. By facing her budgeting challenges and openly communicating with her members, she found surprising support and renewed confidence as an affiliate owner. Her story offers valuable lessons on knowing your worth and taking control of your business finances.
--
FREE TOOLS and resources for CrossFit Affiliate Owners and Coaches.
https://www.besthouroftheirday.com/affiliate-tools
--
Unlock the Power of Your Fitness Business with PushPress
https://www.pushpress.com/
--
FREE TOOLS and resources for CrossFit Affiliate Owners and Coaches.
https://www.besthouroftheirday.com/affiliate-tools
--
Unlock the Power of Your Fitness Business with PushPress
https://www.pushpress.com/
--
Julia Brown shares her journey of overcoming the fear of raising membership rates at her CrossFit gym. By facing her budgeting challenges and openly communicating with her members, she found surprising support and renewed confidence as an affiliate owner. Her story offers valuable lessons on knowing your worth and taking control of your business finances.
--
0:00 - Introduction
2:00 - Fear of Being “Money Hungry”
4:00 - Positive Member Reactions
8:00 - Building Confidence as an Owner
14:00 - Budgeting and Paying Herself
26:00 - Investing in the Gym
32:00 - Advice for Other Affiliate Owners

Nov 4, 2024 • 47min
BTK 014. Integrating Mindset and Physical Health in CrossFit Coaching | Spencer Nix
In this episode of Behind the Knowledge, Spencer Nicks shares his unique approach to CrossFit coaching, where physical training meets mental development. By integrating mindset work with fitness, Spencer creates a holistic coaching experience that empowers clients to achieve sustainable, whole-person transformation. Tune in to learn how blending mental and physical health in CrossFit can elevate both coaching practices and client success.
--
LEVEL UP YOUR COACHING INSIDE THE KNOWLEDGE PRO
https://www.besthouroftheirday.com/theknowledge
--
FREE WORLD-CLASS COACH EVALUATION
https://www.besthouroftheirday.com/world-class-coach-evaluation
--
0:00 - Introduction
0:47 - Spencer Nicks’ Journey to Coaching
5:00 - Early Coaching Experiences and Level 2 Certification
15:02 - Transitioning to Holistic Coaching
22:04 - Combining Performance with Personal Development
30:06 - Shifting from Authority to Collaboration
39:05 - Building Trust with Clients Beyond Fitness
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