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Rapid Fire
Simplifaster
23 episodes
1 day ago
Rapid Fire by SimpliFaster is a fast-paced podcast delivering elite sports performance insights in just 10-20 minutes. Hosted by Justin Ochoa, each episode features top coaches and experts across all levels—private, high school, college, and pro—answering questions on strength & conditioning, speed development and athletic performance. No fluff, just quick, actionable takeawaysto help coaches and athletes stay ahead of the game. Short. Sharp. Science-backed. Because in performance, every second counts. Follow for weekly episodes and stay ahead of the game! #RapidFire #Si
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Fitness
Health & Fitness
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All content for Rapid Fire is the property of Simplifaster and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
Rapid Fire by SimpliFaster is a fast-paced podcast delivering elite sports performance insights in just 10-20 minutes. Hosted by Justin Ochoa, each episode features top coaches and experts across all levels—private, high school, college, and pro—answering questions on strength & conditioning, speed development and athletic performance. No fluff, just quick, actionable takeawaysto help coaches and athletes stay ahead of the game. Short. Sharp. Science-backed. Because in performance, every second counts. Follow for weekly episodes and stay ahead of the game! #RapidFire #Si
Show more...
Fitness
Health & Fitness
Episodes (20/23)
Rapid Fire
The Fast Lane w/ Chris Korfist, Chris Kerr & Dan Fichter: To Squat or NOT to Squat for Athletic Development

Episode Summary 

In this episode, Chris Kerr, Chris Korfist, and Dan Fichter dive into one of the biggest debates in athletic performance: Should athletes squat—and if so, how, when, and why? The crew breaks down why squats became the “king” of the weight room, where that belief came from, what the data actually shows, and why many athletes get strong in the squat without ever getting fast. 

They explore how traditional back squats influence posture, neurology, coordination, and horizontal force production—and whether the movement pattern supports or conflicts with sprint speed and athletic development. Expect stories, laughter, myth-busting, and practical takeaways you can apply immediately. 

 

Key Takeaways 

Strength ≠ Speed: A big squat doesn’t automatically mean better sprinting, acceleration, or athletic performance. 

Patterns > Numbers: If the movement doesn’t match the sport pattern, don’t expect transfer. 

The Brain Has to Feel Safe: If your nervous system perceives the squat pattern as a threat, output drops. 

Isometrics, split stance, and coordination-based options often transfer better than heavy bilateral squats. 

Most athletes are chasing someone else’s genetic outlier model — not what actually works for them. 

Warm-up = Training: Both Chris & Dan use warm-ups as ¾ of the training session. 

 

Key Quotes 

“We are chasing a Herschel Walker / Bo Jackson stereotype and thinking we can build athletes into that.” — Chris Korfist 

“Don’t ask if the athlete should squat. Ask: Does the brain feel safe to squat?” — Dan Fichter 

“Strength is not my goal. Speed is my goal.” — Chris Korfist 

“My warm-up IS my workout.” — Dan Fichter 

 

Timestamp Breakdown

00:00–02:00 

Welcome & opening banter 

03:00 

Using rhythm, auditory cues, and metronomes for movement quality 

05:20 

Warm-ups as aerobic base + how Chris programs for track 

07:30 

Full-circle training methods coaches left… then came back to 

10:40 

Ideal weekly training frequency for high school athletes 

12:15 

Research rabbit holes & why AI won’t replace reading studies 

16:00 

Why warm-ups evolved from static stretching to neuro-based prep 

19:00 

Assessing athletes: where Chris & Dan look first when a sprint looks “off” 

22:50 

To Squat or Not to Squat — origin story of the debate 

24:30 

Why Chris stopped squatting his athletes 

29:00 

How posture & brainstem control tie into squatting ability 

33:00 

The neurological consequences of bilateral squatting 

37:50 

Should ANY athletes still squat? Discussion by sport 

44:30 

Why the goal dictates if squats belong in your program 

47:00 

Baseball: does mass = gas, or is coordination the key? 

50:00 

Vertical vs horizontal force & why squats rarely transfer to speed 

56:00 

Why “strength-to-weight ratio” still misses the mark 

01:03:00 

If not squats… what ARE the best alternatives? Practical examples 

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1 day ago
1 hour 10 minutes 32 seconds

Rapid Fire
THE FAST LANE w/ Chris Korfist, Chris Kerr & Dan Fichter: Templates, Timing & The Art of Acceleration

Episode 2, Part 2 of The Fast Lane dives deep into the evolution of training templates & how great coaches move from simple early-career programs to refined, adaptive systems built around speed, neural readiness and longevity. 

Hosts Chris Kerr, Chris Korfist, and Dan Fichter break down the principles that guide year-round planning, from in-season football to spring and winter track. What begins as a conversation on weekly templates unfolds into a masterclass on movement, coordination, and coaching evolution. 

Key Topics 

From the Early Days to Smarter Templates 

  • Korfist, Fichter, and Kerr reflect on their first training systems — bodybuilding splits, Husker Power, and overspeed bungee cords that left battle scars. 

  • Why early mistakes shaped their understanding of what actually works in performance training. 

Year-Round Planning that Works 

  • How to structure the training calendar for football in the fall, indoor track in the winter, and outdoor track in the spring. 

  • Why acceleration is the foundation — and how the best programs blend it with targeted recovery and neural stimulation. 

  • How to maintain strength and movement quality all season without burning athletes out. 

Strength, Isometrics & Neural Recovery 

  • How extreme yielding isometrics build resilient athletes in- and off-season. 

  • Fichter’s six-station “neural recovery” circuit: dorsiflexion glides, infinity walks, barefoot acceleration, balance perturbations, rebound pushups, and splayed walks. 

  • The art of keeping athletes neurologically sharp while preserving their nervous-system health. 

Acceleration vs. Max Velocity 

  • Why acceleration is the deciding factor in sport performance — and why max-velocity work should be micro-dosed. 

  • The biomechanics of lean: getting your “heart over your hips” and your mass in front of your engine. 

  • Drills that connect the weight room to the field through forward lean, coordination, and posture under load. 

Profiling, Force-Velocity & Data Feedback 

  • How Korfist uses 1080 Motion data to evaluate horizontal force, Newtons/kg, and RF Max. 

  • How Fichter applies timing gates and change-of-direction tests to measure acceleration quality. 

  • Using data as a feedback loop — and knowing when to rely on your coaching eye over the metrics. 

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2 weeks ago
50 minutes 2 seconds

Rapid Fire
THE FAST LANE w/ Chris Korfist, Chris Kerr & Dan Fichter: Episode 2, Part 1 - Audience Q&A

In this episode of The Fast Lane, Chris, Chris & Dan take some audience questions and break down some of the following topics: 

  • Training from yearly to daily perspectives to maximize effectiveness. 

  • Ankle mobility diagnosis and intervention. 

  • Total Motion Release (TMR) as a valuable warmup and injury-prevention tool. 

  • Emphasizing neuromuscular techniques and proper warmup strategies. 

  • Isometric training as useful for teaching muscles to relax, recover and build resilience. 

  • The lost art of jumping rope. 

This is part 1 of Episode 2 of the show, so make sure you stay tuned for part 2 coming soon, where the guys will dive deep into speed development, programming and more! 

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4 weeks ago
18 minutes 37 seconds

Rapid Fire
THE FASTLANE w/ Chris Korfist, Chris Kerr & Dan Fichter: The Foundation (Part II)

SUMMARY 

In this second installment of THE FAST LANE, Chris, Chris, and Dan continue to dive into the evolution of coaching and the essential role of mentorship. The discussion highlights the importance of face-to-face learning, the historical foundations of periodization in strength training, and the ways in which coaches must balance modern techniques with timeless principles. They also explore how belief and personal connection drive athlete development, urging young coaches to seek guidance from experienced mentors and cut through the noise of surface-level social media impressions. 

As always make sure you stream this on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and right in the video above! 

TAKEAWAYS 

  • Face-to-face learning creates deeper, more meaningful understanding. 

  • Mentorship from experienced professionals is invaluable for young coaches. 

  • Social media often promotes superficial evaluations of coaching ability. 

  • Great coaching is about instilling belief and confidence in athletes. 

  • Knowledge of the history behind training methods is critical. 

  • Periodization was originally designed to build Olympic champions. 

  • Modern coaching thrives at the intersection of data and human interaction. 

  • Coaches must cut through distractions and focus on meaningful learning. 

  • Real-time athlete engagement enhances both teaching and performance. 

  • Open-mindedness leads to growth and effective coaching. 

TIMESTAMPS 

00:00 – The Importance of Diverse Knowledge 
02:45 – Mentorship and Face-to-Face Learnin 
06:32 – The History and Purpose of Periodization 
11:15 – Coaching Beyond Social Media Impressions 
15:04 – Instilling Belief in Athletes 
19:27 – Blending Data with Human Interaction 
23:58 – Eliminating Noise and Focusing on Growth 
27:49 – Staying Open-Minded as a Coach 

As always make sure you stream this on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and right in the video above! 

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2 months ago
24 minutes 20 seconds

Rapid Fire
THE FASTLANE w/ Chris Korfist, Chris Kerr & Dan Fichter: The Foundation (Part I)

In this episode of THE FAST LANE, Chris Kerr sits down with coaches Chris Korfist and Dan Fichter to break down the foundations of coaching in speed, strength and athlete development.

They share their personal motivations, discuss how to positively influence younger athletes and dive into the techniques and principles that have shaped their philosophies.

The conversation also explores their interactions with legendary coach Louis Simmons, the role of equipment and the importance of adaptability in training.

At its core, this episode highlights coaching as a dynamic art form built on continuous learning and mentorship. This is only PART 1 of their conversation, so stay tuned for the second half-hour packed with more gems.

This episode also marks the launch of THE FAST LANE, a new monthly correspondence series as part of Rapid Fire. Each month, we’ll check in with this trio and dive deep on all aspects of athletic development.

Make sure to keep up with the guys on Twitter (X) at:

@Korfist

@WGF1

@CoachChrisKerr

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2 months ago
29 minutes 51 seconds

Rapid Fire
Episode 18: How Amanda Berg Used Systems & Curriculums to Build a S&C Program from the Ground Up

From building a strength & conditioning program from scratch to leading national initiatives for high school strength coaches, Amanda Berg has made a major impact in the field.

In this episode, we dive deep into the systems, culture and curriculum she’s developed over nearly two decades, and how she’s helping coaches nationwide do the same (make sure to stick around for the 25% off code to her course!). 

Coach Berg shares her journey from college softball and military service to becoming a driving force in high school strength & conditioning. She breaks down her movement-first philosophy, athlete and non-athlete integration, auto-regulation systems and the progression models that have transformed her program.

Plus, we explore her leadership role with the NHSSCA and the push for qualified strength coaches in every high school. 

Whether you’re in the private sector, at the high school level or coaching teams, you’ll take away actionable ideas to improve your training environment immediately. 

 

What You’ll Learn in This Episode: 

  • How Coach Berg grew a “weight room supervisor” role into a full-scale high school S&C program at Dassel-Cokato HS 

  • Her drop-down menu progression system for squat, hinge and press movements using TeamBuildr 

  • Balancing athletes and non-athletes in the same class without sacrificing quality 

  • Why she uses a “stoplight” auto-regulation system for game-day readiness 

  • The NHSSCA’s mission to get qualified strength coaches in front of every high school athlete 

  • Why “cardio is not conditioning” and the real keys to sport-specific readiness 

  • How military lessons shaped her views on over-conditioning and athlete care 

  • Practical fundraising and space-expansion tips for high school weight rooms 

 

Key Quotes: 

“Weightlifting will literally save your life. If you learn it at 15, you can come back to it at 33, 43, or any age.”  

“Cardio is not conditioning. Conditioning is preparing athletes to perform at their highest level when it matters most.”

“Some of the best movers in class aren’t just athletes—they’re role models that accelerate learning for everyone.”

“The stoplight system puts decision-making in the hands of the athlete. It teaches them to adjust training based on readiness.”

 

Resources & Links: 

  • Amanda on Instagram: @chargertough 

  • NHSSCA: https://nhssca.us 

  • TeamBuildr Course: Building a Strength Training Curriculum Course

  • Use code PEstrength for a free 30-day TeamBuildr trial + 25% off the course 

  •  

    Connect with Us: 

    • Subscribe to Rapid Fire on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite player 

    • If you enjoyed the episode, leave us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review—it helps us grow! 

    • Host: Justin Ochoa on Instagram 

    • Follow SimpliFaster on Instagram, X and LinkedIn 

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    2 months ago
    40 minutes 5 seconds

    Rapid Fire
    Episode 17: Cody Hughes Talks Performance Training From Youth to Pro

    Episode Summary: 

    Cody Hughes joins Justin on Rapid Fire to talk about his next chapter—building one of the most innovative performance facilities in the country from the ground up. From training 10-year-olds to 10-year NFL vets, Cody breaks down how foundational principles never change, regardless of level. We dive into youth development, parent education, tech integration and training philosophy. 

     

    Key Takeaways: 

    • Youth Training Principles: Coordination over output. Layer in motor control, skipping, games and fundamental movement patterns. 

    • Common Mistakes: Overloading young athletes too early. Lack of recovery. Too much organized sport, not enough play. 

    • Tech at Farm & Forge: Vitruve VBT, Keiser, 1080 Sprint, Hawkin Dynamics, Z-Tread, FiyrPod GPS & Rock Daisy AMS. 

    • Private Sector Potential: Opportunity to build deeper athlete relationships over time, track long-term development and prioritize longevity in pros. 

     

    Notable Quotes: 

    • “The way we train some of our 10-year-olds and a 10-year NFL vet looks very similar.” 

    • “Specificity is about knowing when to apply stimulus, not doing something that just looks sport-specific.” 

    • “You don’t see results if you don’t recover—training adaptation doesn’t happen in the session, it happens after.” 

    • “Parents want advanced too early. But if your training age is low, you shouldn’t skip the foundational work.” 

    • “Your facility might be five-star, but if the steak is bad, nobody’s coming back. The product matters.” 

     

    Timestamps: 

    00:00 – Intro & Pacers fandom 

    01:30 – Cody’s move to Nashville and Farm & Forge Club 

    03:20 – Non-negotiables in youth development 

    06:00 – Common training mistakes for kids 

    09:00 – Navigating tough conversations with parents 

    11:00 – The myth of advanced training for youth 

    13:00 – Full tech breakdown at the new facility 

    18:30 – Assessment process & AMS integration 

    22:00 – Training youth vs. pros: principles & adjustments 

    27:00 – Why training a 10-year-old is more like training an NFL vet than you'd think 

    29:00 – Where to find Cody & facility updates 

     

    Connect with Cody Hughes: 

    • Instagram / Twitter: @CLH_strength 

    • Website: clhstrength.com 

    • Facility: @thefarmandforgeclub 

    Show more...
    3 months ago
    28 minutes 47 seconds

    Rapid Fire
    Episode 16: Holistic Coaching & Athlete Development with George Greene

    In this episode of Rapid Fire, Host Justin Ochoa connects with George Greene — Director of High Performance at UMass Football — for a deep dive into holistic athlete management at the college level.

    George shares how he’s building trust with a brand-new roster, how data helps shape practice and training, and why being a good human is performance coaching.

    You’ll hear about:

    • Managing staff, sport coaches, and athletes through one connected vision.
    • Using force plates, NordBord, and Catapult data to drive decisions.
    • Creating buy-in with college athletes.
    • Supporting young coaches and interns with confidence and opportunity.
    • Turning the dining hall into a secret weapon for performance.

    A powerful episode for any coach looking to lead people, not just programs.

    Key Quotes

    On player buy-in: “If they don’t believe in you, they’ll never believe in the program.”On sports science tools: “The data is only as good as what you’re willing to act on.”On managing teams: “We’re not strength staff vs. sport coach — we’re one team, chasing one goal.”On young coaches: “Give them the floor. Give them reps. Then step back and watch them grow.”On culture change: “You don’t flip a culture overnight — you cook it slow and stay consistent.”Time-Stamps00:00–03:00 — Intro and George’s background03:00–06:30 — Managing staff and building alignment between departments06:30–11:00 — Using Hawkin Dynamics, NordBord, and Catapult for better decisions11:00–17:30 — Creating buy-in with new athletes and building trust first17:30–23:30 — George’s holistic performance model: sleep, food, training, recovery23:30–28:00 — Teaching young coaches how to lead with confidence and context28:00–32:00 — Training culture at UMass and building long-term adaptations32:00–35:00 — UMass Dining: an underappreciated performance edge35:00–End — Final thoughts, leadership advice, and where to connect with GeorgeConnect with George GreeneInstagram/Twitter: @greenestrength Email: ggreen@umass.edu


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    4 months ago
    31 minutes 58 seconds

    Rapid Fire
    Episode 15: Kyle Brown on Universal Speed Rating, Speed Labs and Entrepreneurship

    Episode SummaryIn this episode of Rapid Fire, Justin Ochoa sits down with Kyle Brown — former Team USA Skeleton athlete, Owner of Kyle Brown Performance and Northeast Speed Lab Director for Universal Speed Rating (USR).

    Kyle dives into:

    • His transition from sprinting on ice to sprinting development as a coach.
    • The power of data with USR — and how it's changing the game for athletes of all ages.
    • Lessons learned from Mike Boyle, Les Spellman and Stu McMillan.
    • His strategies for scaling a business with his name on it.
    • And why early sport specialization might be one of the biggest threats to athletic development.


    They wrap up with the first-ever lightning round of rapid-fire questions covering favorite lifts, pizza toppings, speed training mistakes, pet peeves and more.

    Key QuotesOn USR’s value: “Data is great. But what you do with the data — that’s where USR really separates itself.”

    On scaling a personal brand: “My goal is for every client to feel like I was there… even if I wasn’t coaching them that day.”On lifting year-round: “If you’re not going to play another sport, weightlifting should be your other sport.”On specialization: “Specialization is killing athletic potential. It’s okay to suck at something — go get better.”On business systems: “Hire people who believe in your philosophy. Then build systems that let you step back and still deliver results.”

    Time-Stamps00:00–03:00 — Kyle’s intro and background in skeleton racing03:00–06:00 — Competing on the World Cup circuit + training with Mike Boyle06:00–12:00 — What is Universal Speed Rating (USR) and how Speed Labs work12:00–16:30 — Mentorship from Boyle, Spellman, Stu McMillan & carrying that into business16:30–21:30 — How to scale a business built on your name + staffing and delegation advice21:30–28:00 — Inside KBP’s athlete onboarding, assessments, and daily programming28:00–34:00 — The dangers of early specialization + why lifting should be the "other sport"34:00–36:30 — Encouraging kids to try new sports and lean into challenge36:30–40:00 — 🔥 First-ever Rapid Fire Lightning Round40:00–End — Where to find Kyle and how to get involved with USRConnect with Kyle BrownInstagram (Personal): @kylebrown_baaInstagram (Business): @kbptrainingWebsite: kbptraining.comUniversal Speed Rating: universalspeedrating.com

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    5 months ago
    35 minutes 49 seconds

    Rapid Fire
    Episode 14: Rodrigo Alvira Discusses Training Smarter in the NBA and G-League

    Episode Summary

    In this episode of Rapid Fire, Justin welcomes Rodrigo Alvira Isla, Head Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Motor City Cruise, the NBA G-League affiliate of the Detroit Pistons.

    Rodrigo shares insights into his journey through the S&C industry, from internships to his current position in the Detroit Pistons organization.

    He shares how he filters useful tech data in high-level environments and gives a deep analysis of countermovement jump (CMJ) force plate testing.The two also discuss the importance of making training enjoyable and sustainable for pro athletes, as well as the evolving use of velocity-based training (VBT) beyond traditional velocity zones.

    A must-listen for anyone passionate about performance, coaching and building human connections in sport.Time-Stamps00:00-02:20 — Rodrigo's path: From visa struggles to NBA/G-League coaching.02:20-08:20 — How Rodrigo filters valuable tech in a data-saturated environment.08:20-17:00 — Deep dive: How to read force plate CMJ data effectively.17:00-23:30 — Building enjoyable, sustainable training environments for athletes.23:30-35:00 — Rethinking VBT: Moving beyond traditional velocity zones.35:00-42:00 — Life and career advice for young coaches: relationships, patience and persistence.42:00-End — Rodrigo's projects, Spaniard Performance Podcast and final thoughts.Major TakeawaysSelective Tech Usage: Don't overwhelm athletes — use simple, repeatable tests like the CMJ and learn to extract deep insights from a single jump.Real-World Force Plate Applications: Focus on curve smoothness, left-right asymmetries and understanding how propulsion stems from good deceleration.Training Buy-In: Building trust and adapting to athlete needs is more effective than rigid, one-size-fits-all lifting protocols during the season.Updated VBT Thinking:Forget rigid "velocity zones."Focus on intent (moving fast) and use real-time velocities to adjust training loads.Program by effort and velocity loss instead of just reps and percentages.Relationships Drive Careers: Knowledge matters, but your ability to connect, stay humble and be persistent ultimately opens doors.Connect with RodrigoInstagram: @spaniardperformance Podcast: Spaniard Performance PodcastAs always, make sure to share & review this episode!

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    6 months ago
    41 minutes 1 second

    Rapid Fire
    Episode 13: Data-Informed Coaching & The Future of Speed Training with Matt Tometz

    Podcast Summary

    In this episode of Rapid Fire by SimpliFaster, host Justin Ochoa connects with Matt Tometz to dive into the evolution of his role from strength coach (Formerly: TC Boost, Northwestern) to marketing manager at 1080 Motion.

    The conversation spans topics like load velocity profiling, the power of being data-informed over data-driven, how to coach speed effectively with limited equipment, and the broader role of sports tech in coaching.

    Tometz shares both high-level philosophy and practical coaching hacks for improving performance outcomes, regardless of budget.

    Timestamps

  • 00:00 – 01:00 | Introduction & Catching Up Justin introduces Matt Tometz (aka Coach Big Toe). The two reconnect and discuss how their paths originally crossed through 1080 and mutual contacts.01:00 – 03:30 | Transition to 1080 & New Role Matt shares his move from on-floor coaching to leading marketing at 1080. He explains how his coaching experience, content creation skills, and product familiarity made the transition natural.03:30 – 06:15 | Load Velocity Profiling & “Peaking Out” They dive into LVP basics. Matt explains the concept of “peaking out” — ensuring an athlete hits top velocity at each load for valid data. He discusses how that impacts profiling accuracy and programming.06:15 – 09:00 | Troubleshooting Profiling: Load, Distance, and R² Justin asks how to respond if an athlete doesn’t peak. Matt introduces the “triangle” approach: coach's eye, athlete feedback, and the data. He breaks down the importance of maintaining consistent protocols and explains how R² helps validate the profile.09:00 – 10:30 | What’s a Good R²? Matt suggests aiming for R² > 0.97–0.98. Below that range likely indicates a flawed profile or poor execution, in which case it’s best to repeat the session.10:30 – 14:00 | Coaching with Tech vs. Coaching without It Justin asks about Matt’s perspective on sports tech. Matt emphasizes that tech is just hardware — it’s how you use it that matters. He shares how he ran his own experiments with 1080 at TC Boost and how good training doesn’t require fancy tools.14:00 – 16:45 | What Tech Adds: Precision, Not Necessity Matt breaks down how coaches can now “put fingers on” previously invisible performance factors. He explains metrics like RF max, DRF, V max, and V zero. He also contrasts old-school Excel-based workflows with today's instant software outputs.16:45 – 20:30 | Data-Informed vs. Data-Driven Matt explains the difference: - *Data-driven* = letting the data dictate every decision - *Data-informed* = using data alongside coaching judgment He gives a practical example of adjusting RF max thresholds to better fit a team’s needs.20:30 – 24:00 | Best Low-Cost Tools for Speed Training Matt outlines his favorite affordable tools—specifically thick resistance bands (~$60) used in a double-loop configuration. He prefers them to friction-based devices due to smoother resistance and versatility.24:00 – 27:00 | Velocity Decrement Without Expensive Tech He explains how coaches can simulate velocity-based programming using time and distance. Example: if an athlete runs 10 yards in 2 seconds unresisted, aim for 4 seconds to simulate 50% VDEC. He shares how he scaled this with large groups using run rockets and manual timing.27:00 – 29:00 | Where to Find Matt & Final Thoughts Matt plugs his social media (@CoachBigToe), YouTube, podcast, and Patreon, where he posts exclusive articles. Make sure to give Matt a follow!

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    6 months ago
    28 minutes 13 seconds

    Rapid Fire
    Episode 12: Daniel Quesenberry's Speed-First Approach to Performance Training

    Summary

    In this episode, Justin Ochoa interviews Coach Daniel Quesenberry from Ravenwood High School, discussing his speed-first mentality,  implementation of RPR (Reflexive Performance Reset) in training, the use of sports technology and evolving training methods over a 20 year career. 

    Coach Quesenberry shares insights on how prioritizing speed has transformed their training approach, the importance of athlete health and building a culture of fitness that extends beyond football.

    Coach Q mentions some of his favorite tech to use in training, such as Catapult GPS, Skyhook Jump Mats and aims to get Velocity Based Training as a next step for the program. But also shares how simplicity and fundamentals always remain important for young athletes to master and understand to build a foundation for a successful development journey.

    Takeaways

    • Implementing RPR takes minimal time but offers substantial benefits.

    • Sports technology like Catapult aids in tracking athlete performance in real time.

    • How less conditioning and better managed practices led to enhanced results.

    • The benefits of speed training to CNS and how it impacts strength as well.

    • The impact that the Sprint Based Football system has made at Ravenwood.

    Timeline

    00:00: Introduction to Coach Q

    03:09: Implementing RPR in Training

    06:01: Utilizing Sports Technology in Training

    08:51: Evolving Training Methods for Speed

    11:52: Changing Perspectives on Conditioning

    14:56: Building a Culture of Health and Fitness

    Stream the episode on Spotify or iTunes, and make sure to follow Dan on social media!

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    7 months ago
    18 minutes 38 seconds

    Rapid Fire
    Episode 11: Molly Binetti on Building Efficient Movers & Getting Championship Results in the Weight Room

    Episode Summary

    In this episode, 2-time NCAA champion, Molly Binetti of South Carolina WBB, shares her unique approach to athletic development, emphasizing the importance of playful, ground-based movement, individualized programming and balancing technology with simplicity in training. 

    She discusses the varying training age levels of athletes and the necessity of tailored methods to enhance both performance and health. Binetti also provides insights into the evolution of women's basketball and the critical role of foundational training in long-term success.

    Key Takeaways

    • The best athletes aren’t just the strongest or fastest—they’re the best movers.

    • Playful, ground-based movements improve engagement and athletic development.

    • Many elite basketball players lack foundational technique due to early specialization.

    • Training must be individualized to meet each athlete’s unique needs.

    • Technology is useful, but great coaching remains the most important factor.

    • Simplicity in training often leads to the best results.

    • Aerobic training plays a key role in recovery and overall fitness.

    • Healthy athletes are the foundation of successful teams.

    • The evolution of women’s basketball requires new, adaptive training strategies.

    Memorable Quotes

    🗣 "The best athletes are the best movers."

    🗣 "Good coaching doesn’t require a lot of tech."

    🗣 "Simplicity in training often leads to the best results."

    🗣 "Healthy players are the key to winning."

    Timestamps Breakdown

    00:00 – Introduction to Athletic Development

    01:01 – The Power of Playful Movements in Training

    03:01 – Skill vs. Athleticism: A Basketball Perspective

    05:03 – Navigating Different Training Ages in College Athletics

    08:06 – The Impact of Individualized Programming

    10:00 – The Role of Technology in Strength & Conditioning

    12:59 – Simplicity vs. Complexity: Finding the Right Balance

    16:03 – Shifting Perspectives in Modern Training

    20:00 – Closing Thoughts & Final Takeaways

    Stream the episode on Spotify or iTunes, and make sure to follow Hunter on social media!

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    7 months ago
    22 minutes 32 seconds

    Rapid Fire
    Episode 10: Hunter Eisenhower Talks Force Plates, Managing Fatigue and Mentorship

    Summary

    In this episode, Hunter Eisenhower, Associate Head Coach of Sports Performance at Arizona State, breaks down his innovative Force System, a training framework built on four key pillars: high force, fast force, slow force, and human force. He explains how this system helps tailor training to each athlete’s unique strengths (superpowers) and weaknesses (kryptonite), ensuring a more individualized approach to performance development.

    Hunter dives into the science of jump testing, debunking common myths about force plates and data interpretation. He also challenges the overemphasis on traditional maximal strength training, arguing that for many athletes, managing practice fatigue has a far greater impact on performance.

    The episode wraps up with a preview of Hunter’s upcoming mentorship program, where he'll offer deeper insights into the Force System and its real-world application for coaches and athletes.

    Key Takeaways

    • How to use The Force System to customize training based on athletes’ superpower or kryptonite.

    • How to test and interpret jump data using force plates, myths & misconceptions of testing and tracking data.

    • The impactful role of managing practice fatigue and how a performance coach and start to influence these coaching decisions.

    • Is maximal strength training overrated for many athletes?

    • Hunter's mentorship program will provide in-depth insights into the Force System.

    Make sure to head over to SimpliFaster.com for more episodes and in-depth training resources!

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    7 months ago
    20 minutes 54 seconds

    Rapid Fire
    Episode 9: Adapting to the New Realities of College Athletics with Victoria Saucedo

    In this Rapid Fire episode, Victoria Saucedo shares her approach to maximizing training strategies for college basketball players in the "new era" of the game. She discusses how to balance training loads, optimize recovery protocols, and ensure athletes stay fresh throughout a long season with more travel and outside stressors than ever. With the demands of college basketball constantly increasing, smart training & recovery practices are essential for performance and injury prevention.

    • "Recovery isn’t just about what you do after practice—it’s about how you prepare before it even starts." A proactive approach leads to better long-term results.
    • "Fatigue is the enemy of performance. Managing it should be a priority, not an afterthought." Recovery is just as important as strength and conditioning.
    • "If you’re not sleeping, you’re not recovering." The basics—sleep, nutrition, hydration—always come first.
    • "The best recovery strategy is the one athletes will actually use." Compliance matters more than having a perfect plan on paper.
    • Load Management is Key – Coaches must carefully balance intensity, volume, and recovery to keep athletes fresh.
    • Recovery is More Than Just Rest – Active strategies like mobility work, nutrition, hydration, and sleep hygiene make a significant impact.
    • Simple is Effective – The best recovery strategies are ones that athletes can easily integrate into their routines.
    • Monitoring Fatigue Helps Prevent Injuries – Understanding when to push and when to pull back is crucial for long-term performance.
    • Culture Drives Compliance – Athletes are more likely to buy into recovery when they see results and understand its importance.

    Basketball is a high-volume, high-intensity sport. Without proper recovery strategies, athletes risk injury, burnout, and performance decline. Implementing smart, effective recovery methods ensures consistency and durability throughout the season.

    Never miss a Rapid Fire episode. Subscribe, rate, and review to keep learning from top coaches in the industry.

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    8 months ago
    15 minutes 39 seconds

    Rapid Fire
    Episode 8: Keith Swift on Delegating Authority and Developing a Resourceful Staff

    In this Rapid Fire episode, Keith Swift discusses the critical skill of delegating authority in coaching. He explains how effective delegation not only builds trust and accountability but also enhances team performance, leadership development, and program efficiency.

    KEY QUOTES

    • "You can’t do it all—coaching is a team effort." Great coaches understand that empowering others leads to better results.
    • "Delegation isn’t about giving up control—it’s about creating more leaders." Trusting assistants and athletes to take responsibility builds a stronger culture.
    • "A good system runs itself when people know their roles." Clear expectations and communication ensure everyone is aligned and effective.
    • "Micromanaging limits growth—give people space to own their responsibilities." When coaches let go, teams become more adaptable and self-sufficient.


    KEY TAKEAWAYS

    • Effective Delegation Builds Stronger Teams – Athletes and assistants perform better when they feel ownership over their roles.
    • Trust is the Foundation of Leadership – Coaches who empower others create a more engaged and motivated staff.
    • Clear Communication is Essential – Setting expectations upfront prevents confusion and improves team efficiency.
    • Micromanaging Slows Progress – Allowing others to take initiative and make decisions leads to greater long-term success.
    • Good Coaches Develop Leaders – The best programs train athletes and staff to lead, not just follow directions.


    Strong leadership isn’t just about coaching athletes—it’s about coaching people to lead. When authority is delegated effectively, teams become more resilient, adaptable, and high-performing.

    Never miss a Rapid Fire episode. Subscribe, rate, and review to keep learning from top coaches in the industry.

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    8 months ago
    13 minutes 5 seconds

    Rapid Fire
    Episode 7: Jon Hersel Talks Speed Development, Working with High School Athletes & Facility Modications

    In this Rapid Fire episode, Jon Hersel shares his approach to coaching within constraints, whether it’s limited time, space, equipment, or athlete availability. He explains how to maximize training effectiveness by adapting to challenges and making the most of what’s available.

    • "Every coach faces constraints. The best ones adapt and find solutions." Success isn’t about perfect conditions—it’s about making the best of what you have.
    • "Time, space, and equipment shouldn’t dictate results—smart programming does." Thoughtful adjustments can ensure quality training even with limited resources.
    • "Simplicity wins. The best programs focus on intent, not excess." Avoid overcomplication and prioritize execution.
    • "Coaching is problem-solving. Constraints force creativity and efficiency." Limitations often bring out the best coaching strategies.
    • Adaptability is a Skill – Great coaches adjust their plans to fit the reality of their environment.
    • Efficiency Over Excess – Simple, well-structured workouts can outperform overloaded programs with too many variables.
    • Constraints Can Be an Advantage – Limited resources often force better decision-making and creativity.
    • Prioritize Movement Quality – The best results come from consistently executing the fundamentals, not fancy equipment or complex drills.
    • Coaches Are Problem-Solvers – A great training program isn’t about ideal conditions—it’s about finding ways to get better no matter what.

    Every coach deals with some form of limitation, whether it’s scheduling, equipment, or athlete readiness. The ability to adapt and still drive results separates good coaches from great ones.

    Never miss a Rapid Fire episode. Subscribe, rate, and review to keep learning from top coaches in the industry.

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    8 months ago
    16 minutes 25 seconds

    Rapid Fire
    Episode 6: Impacting High School Athletes Beyond the Weight Room with David Neill

    In this Rapid Fire episode, David Neill breaks down how coaches can identify and prioritize what truly matters in their programs. With limited time, resources, and athlete availability, he shares how to make strategic decisions that maximize impact without overwhelming athletes or staff.

    • "You can’t do everything, so you have to decide what’s most important." Effective coaching is about making the right choices, not doing it all.
    • "Prioritization isn’t about what to add—it’s about what to leave out." Eliminating unnecessary work allows for higher-quality training.
    • "The best programs are built on clarity and consistency." Athletes thrive when expectations are simple and repeatable.
    • "Don’t just chase trends—commit to what actually moves the needle." Sticking to proven fundamentals will always outperform gimmicks.
    • Identify the Essentials – Focus on the most effective training methods rather than trying to do too much.
    • Time is Limited—Use it Wisely – The best coaches structure workouts efficiently to get the most out of every session.
    • Consistency Over Complexity – Simple, well-executed plans yield better long-term results than overcomplicated programming.
    • Know Your Athletes – Different programs work for different populations. Priorities should align with specific team and athlete needs.
    • Cut the Noise – Avoid distractions from trendy, unnecessary add-ons and stick to what actually improves performance and durability.

    Coaches at all levels must balance limited time, competing demands, and athlete readiness. By focusing on what truly matters, they can create highly effective, sustainable training environments without burnout or wasted effort.

    Follow David Neill: [Insert Socials/Website]
    More from SimpliFaster: https://simplifaster.com

    Never miss a Rapid Fire episode. Subscribe, rate, and review for more high-impact insights from top coaches.

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    8 months ago
    21 minutes 13 seconds

    Rapid Fire
    Episode 5: Steve Schween on Maximizing Training Data & Tech in the High School Setting

    In this Rapid Fire episode, Steve Schween shares his expertise on integrating technology into high school strength programs while navigating the unique challenges of the school schedule. He discusses the practical use of data, effective tech tools, and how to maximize training time in an academic setting.

    KEY QUOTES

    • "If you don’t measure it, you can’t manage it." Tracking data ensures athletes are progressing in a meaningful way.
    • "The school day isn’t going away, so we have to adapt." Strength coaches in the high school setting need to be flexible while maintaining training quality.
    • "Tech should enhance coaching, not replace it." The best tools simplify data collection and improve efficiency without creating extra work.
    • "Efficiency is key—when time is limited, every second of training matters."


    KEY TAKEAWAYS

    • Smart Tech Integration – The best training tools should provide clear insights while being easy to implement.
    • Data-Driven Coaching – Objective metrics help personalize programming and reduce guesswork in training.
    • Maximizing Limited Time – Strength coaches in schools must optimize short class periods and team schedules for high-impact sessions.
    • Balancing Simplicity & Innovation – Tech should enhance, not complicate, the coaching process.
    • Athlete Buy-In – Students engage more with clear feedback, visual progress tracking, and competitive elements.

    High school strength coaches face time constraints, class schedules, and varying skill levels. Leveraging smart technology and efficient programming can help maximize athlete development without overcomplicating the process.

    Never miss a Rapid Fire episode. Subscribe, rate, and review to stay updated on top insights from industry-leading coaches.

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    8 months ago
    11 minutes 40 seconds

    Rapid Fire
    Episode 4: Tony Holler's Atomic Speed Habits, Feed the Cats and Training Fast

    In this Rapid Fire episode, legendary speed coach Tony Holler shares his insights on building speed habits and why traditional training methods often fail to develop true speed.

    With his "Feed the Cats" philosophy, Tony emphasizes quality over quantity, maximal intent, and athlete enjoyment—all crucial elements for speed development and performance.

    • "You don’t get fast by running tired." Speed training should prioritize freshness and intent over exhaustion.
    • "If it’s important, do it all the time." Speed is a skill that needs to be trained consistently, not sporadically.
    • "Make practice the best part of an athlete’s day." When athletes enjoy training, they buy in and perform at their best.
    • "Speed is a skill, and skills must be practiced in a way that produces results."
    • "Don't Overcook the Steak" – More volume doesn’t equal better results. Fatigue is the enemy of speed.
    • Measure, Don’t Guess – Timing sprints and tracking progress keeps athletes engaged and accountable.
    • Train Fast to Be Fast – If you want game-changing speed, you need to train at game speed every time.

    Speed is the ultimate game-changer across all sports. Whether you're a coach or an athlete, understanding speed habits and training with intent can separate you from the competition.

    Never miss a Rapid Fire episode. Subscribe, rate, and review to keep getting the best insights from top performance coaches.

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    8 months ago
    18 minutes 50 seconds

    Rapid Fire
    Rapid Fire by SimpliFaster is a fast-paced podcast delivering elite sports performance insights in just 10-20 minutes. Hosted by Justin Ochoa, each episode features top coaches and experts across all levels—private, high school, college, and pro—answering questions on strength & conditioning, speed development and athletic performance. No fluff, just quick, actionable takeawaysto help coaches and athletes stay ahead of the game. Short. Sharp. Science-backed. Because in performance, every second counts. Follow for weekly episodes and stay ahead of the game! #RapidFire #Si