Uncharted Performance

How We Can Change The World with Kelly Starrett of Mobility WOD Jul 15, 2018

The man that needs very little introduction. For episode 99 of Uncharted Performance we are honored to have a fantastic conversation about the future with the one and only Kelly Starrett of Mobility WOD. Kelly is a coach, physical therapist, author, speaker, mentor and creator, has revolutionized how athletes think about human movement and athletic performance. His clients have included Olympic gold-medalists, Tour de France cyclists, world and national record holding Olympic Lifting and Power athletes, Crossfit Games medalists, ballet dancers, military personnel, and competitive age-division athletes. In our conversation we get to know what stirs Kelly's interest at the moment and the foreseeable future, his creative process, how we can better refine information and deliver it to coaches and athletes, the process of communication in teaching and transfer of information, being able to function long-term and how to accomplish that, how we can improve in diagnosing and solving problems, the significance of fundamentals, the many teachers that influenced him, and the forgotten concepts of play and fun and how we can once again make physical activity a part of everyday life :)

Cutting Through The Noise with Brian St. Pierre of Precision Nutrition Jun 17, 2018

Politics, Religion, and Nutrition. Three of the most hotly debated topics known to man. Luckily, we take care of the nutrition debate in this week's episode of Uncharted Performance with Brian St. Pierre of Precision Nutrition (PN). Brian is renowned for his expertise in performance nutrition. He is both a Registered Dietitian with a Masters in Food Science and Human Nutrition along with a laundry list of credentials and publications under his belt. He has also consulted the San Antonio Spurs and Cleveland Browns on nutrition. Most importantly he is a a PN coach, helping individuals achieve their health and performance goals. We cover a variety of topics including personal experimentation, making mistakes, interpersonal variability, how we can, what we we eat, how much of it should we eat, meal prepping and planning, stress management as well as mindset. Brian also synthesizes the common denominators across "diets" and approaches to nutrition, breaks down the process of goal setting, highlights the importance of intentional daily practice, and distinguishes how we can become better coaches. Our conversation also debunks some of our favorite myths regarding a couple of our favorite macro nutrients, carbohydrates and fats. The nutrition conversation you were waiting for is finally here.

Why We All Need A Movement Practice with Sean Vigue of Sean Vigue Fitness Jun 10, 2018

Colorado’s premier Yoga and Pilates instructor, seven time bestselling author and recently named one of the Top Workout Brands by The Huffington Post, episode 97 of Uncharted Performance is excited to feature Sean Vigue of Sean Vigue Fitness. He was also recently featured in Yoga Digest, The Washington Post, Ultra Running magazine, Lifestyle for Men magazine, Curious.com, Pilates Style magazine, The Denver Post, Fit Bottomed Girls, The Broadway Blog, YoFitTV.com and numerous podcasts including this one. Sean Vigue Fitness is a StyleHaul partner and the Most Watched Yoga & Pilates Guy on the the Planet! We discuss his background an actor and singer, what drew him to the practice of yoga, the impact that his practice has had on him, and the benefits it can provide us. Sean teaches us how develop an intimate relationship with our mind, body, and breath, the importance of being present, and the value of body awareness and how that translates to other movement practices and our relationships. With over 2,000 videos to date we also get a chance to understand his creative process from both a filming and a teaching perspective. Sean is continually watching and studying not only yoga but other modalities of self expression, creativity, and training but more than anything he has one special advantage, to find out who she is, tune in and enjoy!

Art of Showing Up with Greg McClure of Club La Santa Jun 03, 2018

From growing up in the small rough town of Greenock in the west central Lowlands of Scotland, Greg McClure's journey to being the Fitness Manager at arguably the finest fitness facility in the world, Club La Santa in Las Palmas, Spain is unlike any other. We dive deep into Greg's hometown, the beauty of Scotland, his past training experience, travel, cross-cultural education and experience, his relentless work ethic, not being outworked by anyone, his addictive personality, his training regimen, bignastics, building people up and his lofty goals for the future, not only for himself but for CrossFit Club La Santa as well.

Creating Connections and Experiences with Michael Bledsoe of the Shrugged Collective May 13, 2018

We teased this week's guest last week on Episode 94 of Uncharted Performance with Mark England so it should be no surprise that we have the wonderful opportunity to talk to Mike Bledsoe of the Shrugged Collective and host of The Bledsoe Show. He is a true pioneer, influencer, and game changer, and one of the few individuals that have guided us on our path. We explore a number of incredible topics with Mike including a tutorial on creating connection, a full body connection with others, being present in our relationships, how curiosity can led us to what we are meant to do, his evolution as a person from what he was a number of years ago, to the man he is today (how he identifies himself), and who he might become in the future including the major impact point that set the course. We deconstruct the definition of normal, investigate his views on entrepreneurship, wealth and success, how Mike identities which skills to develop, how he has developed them, and what he is concentrating on at the moment (which might surprise you), the value of presence and what is possible through delivering bliss and joy to others.

Life Is A Series of Surprises with Mark England of Procabulary May 06, 2018

We had some unfinished business with Mark England of Procabulary. In our first episode we discussed in depth the power of language and how through the words we choose to use we can gain greater focus, clarity, and control one word at a time. This go around we explore a topic that has become very diluted in self development and growth circles, the subject of goal setting. Mark makes a clear distinction between dreams and goals. He also walks us through the careful process of creating your goals and the key variables associated with getting our thoughts out and crafting meaningful goals. We dig deep on not only the significance of writing our goals, but how they should be written, what we should be experiencing as we write them, and you guessed it, the words we should choose to use. Mark also guides us on which and how to go after our goals, setting and shifting priorities, and how to respond when our goals are not achieved in the manner in which we envisioned. Enjoy part two with our very good friend, Mark England!

Your Inner Warrior with Chef Joshua Ingraham Apr 29, 2018

Chef Joshua Ingraham was recently named "The Face of Fitness for Chefs", he was a finalist for the Men's Health Ultimate Guy Contest, been featured in Food Management Magazine, Crain's Cleveland, Men's Health, Dining with Dermish, and as the Local Celebrity Chef for this year's Get Fit Expo. While perfecting his cuisine he was able to shed 30 lbs in 200 days to win $10k and a Pro sponsorship from Blue Star Nutraceuticals. Josh has been a martial artists for 23 years, Pro Chef for 12 years, Health Coach for 10 years, and author of 2 books. He has a deep deep passion to protect the world and bring us together. We discuss his growth and evolution as a chef, his own personal physical and mental transformation, his dedication, discipline, consistency and drive for a sustainable and health lifestyle not only for himself but for everyone he comes in contact with, the importance of food education along with the great work and impact he is making in the community.

The Great Escape with Arabelle Mondello of Hope On The Run Apr 22, 2018

Arabelle Mondello is a kind, funny, beautiful human soul and also a little nuts. She is an ultra marathon runner and preparing to take one of the most epic trails on the globe, The American Discovery Trail, which stretches across more than 6800 miles and 15 states. Why commit to such an incredible challenge? After suffering multiple miscarriages, she became an emotional mess, and dove deep into grief and ensuing depression, losing much of her self worth. She went on a search for hope and happiness beyond having another baby. On the trails, she found peace, a great escape from her suffering. She found that hope out on the trails, in the wilderness. She prepares to run across the United States to share her message of hope with others and offer guidance to those who have suffered not only pregnancy loss but those who might find themselves in a dark place. To help us recognize that we have the right tools to determine what is truly meaningful, what can brings joy to our lives, and the steps we could take to allow us to find a better place.

Pulling Back The Curtain with Luke Summers & Chris "Tex" McQuilkin of Power Athlete Apr 15, 2018

Welcome back ladies and gentlemen to Uncharted Performance. We kick off season 9 by pulling back the curtain with Luke Summers & Chris "Tex" McQuilkin of Power Athlete. These two gentlemen are at the core of an immensely talented team led by John Welbourn dedicated to fighting mediocrity in the field of strength and conditioning and empowering your performance as an athlete and coach. Luke and Tex share their distinct journeys to Power Athlete highlighting their lightbulb moments when everything changed for them as coaches. We go deep and discuss the culture and vision at Power Athlete and the role that leadership, opportunity, autonomy, loyalty, taking ownership, continuing education, and innovation all play in creating an unparalleled platform for self discovery, development, and enlightenment. Power Athlete is more than just strength and conditioning, it is what the world needs. Enjoy and make sure to tune in to Power Athlete Radio too!

Breaking Down Barriers with Derrick Johnson of The Kings of Weightlifting Apr 01, 2018

For episode 90 we are joined by national champion, international team member, record holder and Level 5 senior international coach for USA Weightlifting, Derrick Johnson. He has produced national champions, team titles, world team members, and a Olympian but that is just scratching the surface. He takes us on a fascinating journey from growing up in around poverty and crime in St. Louis to rolling the dice, starting over and reinventing himself in Los Angeles and opening the amazing non-profit providing opportunity and access to the great sport of Olympic weightlifting, The Kings of Weightlifting. Our conversation is littered with “firsts” and breaking down barriers starting with his recent trip to compete in Iran where he took gold. But that is now, Derrick has gone through multiple injuries, heart break, devastation, steady use of pain killers, and more pain and trauma. Through it all however, he has continued to work on himself and maintain the best mindset for himself and those he coaches by reminding himself of what is good. His is a story that he is writing himself, and it is far from over.

Bridging The Gap with Dr. Teddy Willsey of Strength Coach Therapy Mar 24, 2018

For episode 89 our guest is the immensely popular and outgoing, Dr. Teddy Willsey of Strength Coach Therapy and Healthy Baller. Many of you might be familiar with Teddy from his Instagram account and other social media on which he shares very valuable content that we can apply in our training, pre-hab, warm-ups, active recovery and coming back from injury. We discuss his growth in popularity and his always increasing following, how it happened, at the benefits it provides, along with its downsides. We nail down what sets Teddy apart from others in his field, his philosophy, how he is bridging the gap between strength and conditioning and physical therapy, and his evolution as a professional. We also dive into practices that set Teddy off a bit, movements and exercises we would benefit from incorporating more often into our training, the purpose of active recovery and what it should look like, his passion for the outdoors, and surviving DC metro traffic.

Passionately Curious with James Fitzgerald of OPEX Fitness Mar 18, 2018

For episode 87 of Uncharted Performance, we are joined by none other than James Fitzgerald of OPEX. James has lived fitness and training for a better part of his life, he absolutely loves it. It is that love that has enabled him to compete at the highest level and transition to arguably being one of the top coaches on the planet. We cover his genesis from athlete and coach, and the characteristics which have allowed him to continually develop and ascend to the top of the sport for over 20 years. We explore the world of OPEX including their unique approach to athlete assessment and progression, the concept of Maximal Aerobic Power (MAP for short) along with its implications and application to training, the use to technology, as well as James’ definition of success and his ultimate purpose.

Laying The Foundation with Ben Dziwulski of WODPrep Mar 11, 2018

For episode 87 we are joined by Ben Dziwulski of WODPrep. During this part of the year, many of us are competing in CrossFit Open, which is a terrific way to identifying your strengths and areas of improvement. Ben and I review share our thoughts on this year’s event and what we can expect in the remainder of the workouts. Then based on actual data, we breakdown the most common movements and with Ben’s help, what we can do in our training to get better at them. Whatever your level, if you are competing in the Open or not, Ben shares some absolute gems on how to develop a sound foundation and build on it with appropriate progressions. Enjoy our conversation, reflect on your performance, and evaluate how you can adjust and improve those skills along with increasing capacity at performing them at high volume. Enjoy!

Failing My Way To Success with Prady Tewarie of Azoth Mar 04, 2018

Prady Tewarie by most standards is a very successful entrepreneur as well as a very accomplished bodybuilder, however he comes from very very humble beginnings. He is the son of working class immigrants and struggled throughout much of his childhood in school but that didn’t stop him. He was bitten very early on by both he iron and business bugs. We explore his journey and growth in Bodybuilding, uncovering along the way the many indirect benefits of immersing yourself in the sport. We dive into how he took underperforming assets and developed methods to turn them around, we bust myths about what it takes to succeed and how we can achieve our lofties of goals, drawing parallels between bodybuilding and entrepreneurship, how one feeds of the other, and the most important investments you can make.

Movement Is Life with Lindsey Mathews of BIRTHFIT Feb 25, 2018

This week’s guest is Dr. Lindsey Mathews of BIRTHFIT and Deuce Gym and every coach, CrossFit, Strength Training, or otherwise needs to hear this conversation and learn more from Lindsey. We cover a number of topics starting with our primal movement patters and how they relate to our social development. We then explore the training approach, a functional progression, during the different phases of the motherhood transition for preconception, during, and postpartum including importance of embracing load, planes of motion and energy systems. Additionally, touch on the value of mindset, how to view obstacles in a different manner, with closing on how BIRTHFIT is providing the proper support and coaching for a grossly underserved population for both women and their partners experiencing the motherhood transition.

How To Get Better At Getting Better with Dr. Cara Miller of Inquiry Partners Feb 18, 2018

This week’s guest on Uncharted Performance is Dr. Cara Miller. She is the coach to the elite and leaders across diverse fields, ranging from finance to fitness. Her resume is extensive. She is a professor, executive developmental coach, organizational design and change consultant in the fields of leadership, organizational development, adult development, and spiritual formation. Our conversation evolves from the self to the organization. We begin by discussing questions that dig to the root of personal recognition, growth and development. Our dialogue evolves to the importance of organizations and leadership within them as it relates to the disruption, growth and development of any industry but specifically in this context of CrossFit, Strength Training, and other Fitness facilities.

Casting Spells with Mark England of Procabulary Feb 11, 2018

In this episode we go inside our heads and explore how we think and how we talk impacts and determines how we act and how we perform. Our guest this week is Mark England from Procabulary. As of our discussion he has delivered over 425 presentations, including his immensely popular TEDx talk, and coached countless others on how to lead more powerful, more fulfilled lives using the power of better words and stories. The crux of the episode centers on the ongoing and fluid process of identity, and the question of who are you? And how we interpret our experience. We identify key concepts and how we can go about changing the conversations we have with ourselves with Mark as the prime example. We hope that with Mark’s help you can start being more mindful of the spells you cast and the stories you tell yourself and how they impact you, your relationships, and your performance.

Solving The Back Pain Dilemma with Matt Stevens, Tracy Beck, Chad Teague & Joel Woods Feb 04, 2018

We are very honored and grateful to be joined by Matt Stevens, Tracy Beck, Joel Woods, and Chad Teague. The intention of this gathering is to diagnose, expose, explain, intervene and provide guidance on one of the most debilitating issues many of us experience on a daily basis. According to acatoday.com 31 million Americans experience low-back pain at any given time. Low back pain is the single leading cause of disability worldwide, according to the Global Burden of Disease 2010. And Back pain is one of the most common reasons for missed work. What to do, who can we turn to? We got them right here for you. This is a very difficult topic to address head on as the causes and symptoms of low back pain are many, and individualized. However our panel does a tremendous job of dissecting the issue and connecting it to training, performance, and lifestyle.

Make No Apologies with Morgan Neal of Team USA Jan 28, 2018

Swim, bike, run with a generous offering of CrossFit are on the agenda for this episode of Uncharted Performance. We are joined by the super energetic and awesome Morgan Neal of Team USA who reminds us to never forget and never give up on our passion. This past year, in 2017, Morgan finished in the top 40 in the world in her age division but getting here was definitely not a straight line. We go back to college for a little bit then lose our way for a few years before getting back to into the sport she loves, as well as how that introduced her to the competitive world of triathlons. Morgan describes the process it takes to qualify for Team USA and her experience competing at the world stage. The episode would not be complete without dissecting her training, what she has benefitted from the most, as well as both the challenges and opportunities that living in Cleveland provides a seasoned triathlete.

Training, Travel, and Life's Treasures with Mark Valenti of Refined Savage Jan 21, 2018

"If I am to be drunk let it be on blood and conquest. If I am to be stimulated let it be through trial and ordeal. Let me find intoxication in glory and honor. Let my ecstasy come from rituals of strength and communion with nature. My body is a chariot for the smokeless fire. When I fuel it, let it be to achieve my destiny, to become stronger, to be pure and free of poisons. Let me crucify my past self on the altar of Iron and Blood, so that I may obtain the hidden flame." - Paul Wagner. The prequel to our eight season, we are honored and grateful for another collaboration with Mark Valenti of Refined Savage and Blind Dog as we discuss training, travel, and life's treasures.

Walking Dead: Booze, a Babe, & the Barbell Jan 15, 2018

Almost getting shot by my best friend is a fun story to tell looking back on it now that I’m healthy and sober but the fact that it happened at all is rather disturbing. The barbell was the furthest thing from my mind. I can’t tell you what time it was because I can’t remember, but it’s more likely because I couldn’t see straight. It was definitely late; or rather should I say early in the morning. It was another day of heavy drinking (another Sunday, that is) and my friends had wisely called it quits. Me, on the other hand, not so much.

The Truth Shall Set You Free with Misbah Haque of the The Airborne Mind Show Jan 07, 2018

The season finale of Uncharted Performance is upon us! We close out season 7 of the show with the multi-talented Misbah Haque, host of the very successful Airborne Mind Podcast and coach at Revival Strength. We find out how Misbah has accomplished a great deal in a relatively short time, and the unique characteristics that have enabled him to considerably expand as a person, coach, host, and entrepreneur. Our conversation centers around several main themes including creativity, exploring, questioning, listening, and coaching. We then learn how Misbah incorporates these five elements into his movement practice, relationships, personal development, and self expression through conscious and persistent effort while being vulnerable and breaking a few rules along the way. The future is definitely bright for this up and coming leader. Enjoy!

Commitment To Change with Marcus Filly of Revival Strength Dec 30, 2017

He's back by popular demand! Marcus Filly of Revival Strength and Functional Bodybuilding returns to the show New Year's day. We catch up on family and training then "build of the base" we established back in Episode 65. We dive deeper into Functional Bodybuilding and the Awaken Training Series to discuss the evolution of the program from it's inception of being a model of what Marcus' training looked like to having a greater impact on other people based on his experience. We outline the progression of movements and how different training variables are adjusted during the program, as well as emphasize the importance of tempo and time under tension. Our conversation is highlighted by the topic of commitment to change and being loyal to a process to reap its long lasting benefits.

Dancing With Stimulus with Logan Gelbrich of Deuce Gym Dec 24, 2017

Our guest on episode 78 of Uncharted Performance is Logan Gelbrich of Deuce Gym. He is a former pro baseball player, CrossFit Seminar staff member, coach, entrepreneur, writer, student, coach, teacher, philosopher, but to label him as these would not be fair because of the given the combination of all these he’s much more. Our conversation is a organic free flowing exploration of the ripe environment for development and it is not specific to coaching or training What does that environment look like? What are the key contributing factors and variables?We probe how we can push our development, through exposing ourselves to opposing view points, departing from our beliefs, and the manner in which one can accomplish that. The coaches prep course developed by Logan and staff is a spring board for much of our discussion that also leads into creating problems, providing solutions, insuring against mediocrity, and breaking from dogma to allow ourselves to both evolve and devolve. What is great coaching? Tune in to find out and start playing up.

Gift of Helping Others with Jessica Griffith Dec 17, 2017

What is going on fam. This week’s guest on Uncharted Performance is the fittest nurse on earth, Jessica Griffith, who in 2017 made the CrossFit Games as a rookie individual competitor. We discuss in depth her role as a Level 1 trauma nurse, what took for her to get there and why she absolutely loves what she does, starting all the way back to what drew her to the field of medicine. We explore the carryover over to training and competing in CrossFit, reconciling the two very demanding commitments, and the challenges as well as the opportunities presented by her unique schedule. One thing that you will quickly notice about Jessica is her very positive attitude and bright smile - find out in the episode exactly why.

Inside The Mind Of A Madman with Peter Nelson Dec 10, 2017

Peter Nelson was a former high school basketball and track and field standout who later became a smoker and a back injury had him sidelined into his mid 40s. Then cold turkey he gave up smoking and picked up a new “addiction”, running. He quickly kept upping the ante from 5k to marathons to ultra marathons. Now at 54, he has ran over 60 races of marathon distance or longer in a span of only 6 years. He cover the mental challenges of running such long distances, the perseverance to overcome difficult scenarios, and the benefit running has had on Pete’s physical and mental health. It wouldn’t be an episode of Uncharted if we didn’t cover why he continues to run, so much and so far, regularly pushing past what is rational, and how it makes him feel, as well as some tactical pointers regarding his training regimen including insights on what to prepare for as we push the boundaries of human potential at any age in this week’s episode.

Lessons From The Octagon with Joe Callari of Callari Killer Fitness Dec 03, 2017

So where are we this week? Back to a familiar place with our friends at GrooveRyde. This time it is with one of their newer team members, Joe Callari of Callari Killer Fitness and Beat Box instructor. As you quickly find out in our conversation Joe can light up a room very quickly. He is a retired MMA fighter and a fitness entrepreneur with a heart of gold. We dive into the world of mixed martial arts, what drew him to the sport and how it turned a one time "bully" into one of the kindest and most positive people we hope you have the opportunity to meet. Getting knocked out or punched in the face has many lessons we can learn from - both good and bad. We talk getting knocked around, a lot , why he enjoys it, his growth and in the sport of Mixed Martial Arts and the many valuable lessons he took away from fighting in the octagon. We also discuss developing as a personal trainer, growing your own business and brand, as well as several other topics related to nutrition, and his wonderful mission of Squats Over Suicide.

What Are You Willing To Do with AJ Roberts Nov 26, 2017

In Episode 74 with AJ Roberts we take you all the way back to South Hampton, England to being a basketball standout, coming to the US and the early challenges that led AJ to become on of the strongest human beings on the planet. You’ll hear early on that AJ set the bar very high and he was willing to do anything to get there. From becoming the strongest in his school to setting world records as part of the world famous Westside Barbell under Louie Simmons to leaving it behind and why. We also discuss his rise in the fitness business industry and the ability to thrive as an entrepreneur. Our conversation wouldn’t be complete without touching on some finer points of strength development and training. Enjoy!

Fitness As A Platform For Everything Else with Carl Paoli of Freestyle Connection Nov 19, 2017

What could happen if we all started paying attention? What if we could utilize fitness as a platform to express ourself, encourage people, and collectively grow? An eye opening conversation that transcends strength training, Olympic Weightlifting, or whatever your fitness endeavor might be with the one and only, Carl Paoli, the author of Freestyle Connection and creator of Gymnastics WOD. Carl and I discuss his roots, his gymnastics background, awesome studies and work in marine biology, and how all that led him to here and the environment and movement he is creating and championing through the freestyle connection and other endeavors. We get into why should we move like we care, what impact being kind to yourself can have, the importance of being present, creating an intellectual experience, how and where to make the biggest impact. Enjoy our conversation with Carl!

Be Strong, Be Fierce with Emily Abbott Nov 12, 2017

We are keeping the party going with non other than 4 times CrossFit Games athlete, total badass, Emily Abbott. We get into a ton of different topics, tattoos, growing up in Canada, travel, adventure, getting outdoors, using fitness and strength to experience the world, being one with nature, college basketball, as you might have figured out, a little bit about CrossFit, and what the future holds for this incredible human being. If you are sense a pattern here, there isn’t one. This is a conversation about being human, being imperfect, vulnerable, having self doubt, imbalance, about there not being a finish line, pushing yourself, putting yourself in tough and uncomfortable situations, becoming strong, fierce, aggressive, daring to be you, and welcoming death, knowing you have dared and lived.

Dare To Be Exceptional with Scott Panchik of CrossFit Mentality Nov 05, 2017

If you have been living under a rock, Scott Panchik is a very familiar face in the CrossFit community, qualifying for every CrossFit Games since 2012, and finishing this past year just under ten points from this year’s podium. He is the epitome of consistency, dedication and professionalism. But where does that come from? Our awesome conversation centers around the themes of family, building strong relationships, community and sacrifice. Scott will be the first to tell you that much of his success can be attributed to his wife, his parents, and younger brothers. What role do they play and how have they helped Scott develop and evolved are covered in our conversation. He is a tremendously driven individual outside of CrossFit as well, and gives much of himself as a teacher to grow and build his community at CrossFit Mentality. We dive into the process of starting a business, what the community means to him, at the same time remaining a competitive athlete. Of course we discuss what it takes to make the games multiple times over, breaking down Scott’s training approach and mentality (pun intended). Reflecting back and looking forward to next year and what the future holds for Scott, his family, and CrossFit Mentality.

The Pursuit of A More Meaningful Life with Alina and Pawel Wencel of Uncharted Performance Oct 22, 2017

Hello friends and welcome to the season seven finale of Uncharted Performance. Massive thank you to our very good friend Mark Valenti of Blind Dog Gym for brining us together and letting us share our stories on his awesome podcast, the Refined Savage. This is the episode we finally introduce my partner in crime, my coach, the immensely beautiful, extremely talented, my best friend, badass, movement and nutrition guru, my wife, Alina Wencel. Alina and I both took different paths coming America. We share our stories of coming to the states, how we met, my dark days with substance abuse, Alina coming to the rescue, how finding the right person is the key to motivate you to do the right things, our fitness journeys, what we do, and why we do it. Our passions. Our pursuit of balance and a healthier life, creating values that will lead to a more meaningful and rewarding life, overcoming your own fears, and getting to do things that you love to do. We hope to motivate change, and that our stories provide a dose of perspective for many of us in regards to the abundance of luxury and conveniences we are surrounded by and with. And remember, friendships are the best ships , do you really need that magical apple cutter, and a little bit more on Scotland. Cheers!

On The Path To Mastery with Yuri Marmerstein Oct 15, 2017

This week on Uncharted Performance we are joined by the awesomely bearded, Yuri Marmerstein, originally from Odessa, currently living in Las Vegas, by way of our hometown Cleveland. Yuri has been exploring the physical culture for over 15 years as an acrobat, entertainer, performer and teacher. Personally, we think what he is capable of doing with is body is very impressive but he might not agree given his high standards. We get the wonderful opportunity to get an inside look at his unique learning process that started out by imitating Kung Fu movies in the backyard. His advanced practice originated with little direction and has developed into a Webster’s dictionary mistakes to learn from and develop. The better Yuri got and more he surrounded himself with high level coaches and athletes he realized, in his words, how shitty he was which motivated him further in his pursuits. We tackled the difficulty subjects of getting through plateaus and appropriate skill development using handstands as an example but a metaphor for certainly anything. We also define improvement and how to get over fear, his teaching methods and how they have evolved over time, how we can become better teachers, and the process through which adults learn new concepts and skills.

Integrating Mind and Body with Tom Mountjoy of Primal Movers Oct 08, 2017

This week we are joined by Tom Mountjoy of Primal Movers all the way form beautiful Bergen, Norway. This is a truly awesome and fascinating conversation with Tom and his process of integrating the mind and body, and what it took to get there, and spoiler alert it was not easy. We find out what it took for Tom to recognize that instead of being united, his strength training practice and mindset were at odds, and how that recognition led him to a different way to navigate through both, and that both practices, the mental and physical can be united. We learn from Tom how to be still and more aware of the capability of our bodies, how nature can free us from distraction and allow us to experience different variables, that holding onto tension can be a sign of weakness, that there can be a wider perspective of movement through which more gets revealed, how we can engage with our emotions through our movement practice or strength training and how that can inform other parts of our life to make more mindful lifestyle choices, and through a more mindful aware movement practice we can compliment traditional strength and conditioning training, from CrossFit to Strongman.

Best Balance Wins with Jim Klopman of SlackBow Oct 01, 2017

This week on Uncharted Performance we are joined by Jim Klopman, the inventor of the SlackBow and the book Balance is Power. Jim was born with brain damage, ADHD, dyslexia, just didn't have the other parts of the system working and how to operate properly in society - as one doctor told him he had the brain of a NFL football player. He was a not a very good student, flunked a few times, took nine years to graduate college. He used athletics to overcome these challenges he was faced with, lettering in five different sports. After years of being an athlete and unsure of his purpose in life, Jim found his purpose and developed his own business called the SlackBow Balance Training System. He created the SlackBow Balance Training System to enhance his own balance as well as others. Jim has worked with professional athletes, including the likes of Steph Curry of the Golden State Warriors to both NFL & Major League baseball team, and has benefitted them immensely.

Building Everyday Champions with Mike Dewar of J2FIT Strength & Conditioning Sep 24, 2017

In episode 66 of Uncharted Performance we are joined by Mike Dewar of J2Fit Strength & Conditioning and . Barbell CEO. We go from growing up in Ohio to landing in the big city with little direction but with a sense of rush and great opportunity. Mike is a big believer in using circumstance to drive positive change and creativity. He has been driven by his innate desire to know more, and by knowing more, seeing even more possibilities. As an entrepreneur, it is all about doing something, no matter how small or what it is, but to take action, make mistakes but learn from them, all in with the intention to create momentum. Don’t be hampered by perfection and fail to launch. It doesn’t have to be perfect. As a coach, his passion is to turn everyday people into everyday champions and helping them be the best at what they do, no matter what it is, from marathon runner to corporate CEO.

Awakening Your Training with Marcus Filly of Revival Strength Sep 17, 2017

On this episode of Uncharted Performance we are joined by a very successful and immensely intelligent athlete and coach, 6 times CrossFit games competitor, founder of Revival Strength and most importantly new dad, Marcus Filly. What Marcus has developed is to what to outsiders might see as a seamless blend of how many of us first got into fitness, chasing that pump, and what many of us have transitioned to and grown to love, functional fitness. Before we get to Functional Bodybuilding and a walkthrough the very popular Awaken Training Series, we discuss how he got to now starting with his first ever training session and how that left him, his interest and passion in the physical and health sciences, the role medical school played in defining his mission, and the five major impact points in his training life, all along connecting all the dots. What is Functional Bodybuilding then exactly? Great question, but you will just have to listen to the episode to find out specifically.

Creating a New Normal with Matt Walrath of Beyond Macros Sep 10, 2017

Our guest this week is Matt Walrath of Beyond Macros. We learn how Matt became a nutrition coach, what it means for him to be one, and the approach he takes with his clients. He walks us a through a primer on macronutrients, what they are, what role they play, and why we should care. We then shift to the topic of the day, creating a new normal for his clients and how one goes about doing so through the development of sustainable and appropriate habits. Subjects we cover include how to become aware and recognize triggers, getting our body and mindset to break from homeostasis, and different externalities that could deter our nutrition journey. We finish of the episode talking about Matt’s core values which definitely bring the episode to an epic conclusion. Enjoy!

Becoming Capable of Greatness with Mike Flynn of The Impact Entrepreneur Show Sep 03, 2017

In this week’s episode of Uncharted Performance we are joined by Mike Flynn of the Impact Entrepreneur show. Mike provides tons of wisdom on how we can become better box owners, coaches and most importantly, human beings. He is an avid CrossFitter through which he pursues developing his mind, body, and spirit. A successful entrepreneur in his own right as the owner of Flynn Wealth Strategies, he is a husband, father, who wants to have a game changing impact in the lives of others. We discuss what impact moments are and what they can mean to our development, how CrossFit and Entrepreneurship are very much alike, the concept of self efficacy, the power of choice, the true meaning of legacy, how to develop the right skills to develop confidence to be able to perform, the peak performance framework, and an in-depth look at the six bridges of personal growth and the importance of the concept of the future five. In Mike’s words, lets brace for impact!

Having A Conversation With Fascia with Tracy Beck of Connected PTW Aug 26, 2017

In this episode of Uncharted Performance we are joined by Tracy Beck, physical therapist and creator of Connected Physical Therapy and Wellness. Tracy is here to tell us, it is not enough to simply get better after seeing a PT, we want to be well, and that often requires a practitioner who is able and wiling to find out the root cause. She has chosen to break off from the traditional/rigid model of physical therapy and find her own unique approach. Among other things, you’ll find out how fascia works and how crucial it is, what types of movements can facilitate the development of a healthy fascial system, how we can challenge tissue in a healthy way and what makes flexibility so important for all sports disciplines.

Making The World A Better Place Through Fitness with Ben Dziwulski of WODPREP Aug 17, 2017

Ben Dziwulski of WODPREP is this week’s guest in the first episode of Season 6. Ben, aside from creating WODPREP, is a former coach at CrossFit Invoke as well as former owner of his own CrossFit box. Ben has always been a natural at coaching and was able to create opportunities for himself to not only get better but to succeed beyond his initial plans. We’ll learn how he distills difficult concepts into small, manageable steps (or dominos, as he refers to them) to be able to teach others how to tackle them. Other gems from this interview include how to advance in training through what Ben refers to as an “unbalanced life” or letting the pursuit of a goal consume you for a time while you maintain single-minded focus and cherishing small victories to enjoy life to the fullest.

Beating The Odds with Jeff Clapacs of Bethune-Cookman Athletics Aug 04, 2017

To wrap up this season Uncharted Performance, our guest of the week is Jeff Clapacs. Jeff is Bethune-Cookman University basketball team assistant coach with a decade of experience in college basketball coaching all over the U.S. This interview probably won’t make you better at basketball but we hope it inspires you to live a life of passion and purpose and that’s what Jeff is doing. He has learned that aspiring to always get better, practicing patience and paying it forward are the keys to success. All of us will encounter adversities or tough circumstances and Jeff has a few pointers on how we can stick with it through these rough times. Enjoy!

The Heart and Mind of a Champion with Shellie Edington of MasterFit Jul 25, 2017

In this episode we’re happy to introduce you to Shellie Edington. Shellie is an age 50-54 division CrossFit Games champion, business owner and former gymnast. We got to pick her brain about her experience at the CrossFit Games, how she improved with every single year of competing and what keeps her coming back stronger than ever. We also touched on topics such as coaching and developing athletic kids, loving the challenge and brain engagement of a movement practice as a way to develop the life-long habit of exercise, as well the benefits of gymnastics for CrossFit. Among other helpful advice Shellie recommends using all the resources at your disposal (sports psychology is a good example), keeping a good handle on your work/exercise/leisure schedule to maximize efficiency and last but not least, finding the fun in the workouts even when you’re doing something you’re not very good at!

Developing Elite Athletes with Tim Robertson Jr. of Speed Strength Systems Jul 20, 2017

This week on Uncharted Performance we’d like to introduce you to Tim Robertson Jr. of Speed Strength. Tim holds a master’s degree in sports physiology, is a CSCS and owner of Speed Strength. Tim has over 20 years of experience training both youth and profession athletes and his impressive list of clients include LeBron James, Ben Simmons, Nene, Ellie Hess and London Fletcher. This conversation spanned from discussing how effective leadership can make you a better coach to what exercises can have the biggest carryover on the field/in sports, and everything in between (no surprise here, folks - do your squats). Tim’s recommendations and wisdom will benefit not only coaches but athletes as well, especially when it comes to developing your own philosophy and work ethic.

Relentless Pursuit of Excellence with Matt Gildersleeve of The University of Akron Jul 14, 2017

In this episode of Uncharted Performance our guest is Matt Gildersleeve, who is the director of football strength and conditioning at the University of Akron and the youngest strength coach in Division I football. Matt brings energy, drive and inspiration this week as he walks us through his story. Matt knew from an early age what he wanted to pursue and credits mental fortitude and character resilience as the biggest factors that helped his along the way, with just a little bit of luck. The way he chooses to show gratitude for working his dream job is through serving others who cross his path. Some actionable takeaways from this episode are listening to feedback, learning from others, and acting the part of what you want to achieve long before you get the part.

Art of Coaching with Tom Rini, Lindsey Kelly, and Pete Nelson II Jul 06, 2017

Welcome to episode 56 of Uncharted Performance! This week we are returning to Black Flag Athletics to talk to Lindsey Kelly, Tom Rini, and Pete Nelson II. The topic of this discussion, as all three of our guests have extensive experience in, is coaching. We start off with learning why coaching is such a passion for them and how it helps them find fulfillment. As Tom puts it, it is an opportunity to give something of yourself and build a relationship with those you’re coaching that impacts the rest of their lives. Lindsey, Pete and Tom describe their growth as coaches and give some useful advice on how others can evolve in this unique role. Learning from other coaches, developing good communication with clients of all different types and going out and getting that all important experience are just some of those critical skills.

Strength Secrets Revealed with Mark Valenti and Shawn Schumaker Jun 27, 2017

Thanks for joining us for episode 55 of the Uncharted Performance podcast. Some familiar faces are back at it, Mark Valenti of Blind Dog Gym and Shawn Schumaker of Team BBS Fitness. These gents have a combined 50 years of experience in the strength game and they’re more than willing to share what they know and reveal their strength secrets. This is one of the most technical episodes we’ve done. You’ll find out what the most effective accessory movements are for the core, posterior chain, glutes, upper body, as well as the all important grip development. Additionally, we’ll list numerous variations of those standard movements to avoid injury and plateaus. Both Mark and Shawn emphasize the importance (surprise, surprise!) of strict movements so get your strict pull-ups in, ladies and gentlemen!

Redefining Normal with Korey Smerk of EYE Fitness Jun 20, 2017

Episode 54 of Uncharted Performance is back, this time introducing Korey Smerk of EYE Fitness. Korey is a fitness coach, an obstacle course racer, trail runner, and nature lover. Korey shares his journey with bipolar disorder, from his diagnosis several years ago to how he manages it and learns to function with it daily. He approaches it by doing frequent self checks to assess where he is at that moment in time but even more importantly, he admits that having patience is the key. Korey’s biggest motivation is wanting more for himself and he achieves that by life-long learning and growing despite the sometimes daily obstacles (no pun intended!).

What It Takes To Fly with Brian Warner and Cory Moore Jun 15, 2017

Thank you for joining us for episode 53 of Uncharted Performance! We are at CTown CrossFit for this episode talking to Cory Moore and Brian Warner about what it takes to make it in the world of bar athletics. Cory is a nationally and internationally recognized masters weightlifting competitor and coach, and Brian is a 2016 NPC natural master’s physique competition winner and a personal trainer. However, both have an extensive history in the bar world. In this interview you will find out how simple (but not easy!) bodyweight exercises can help develop strength, agility and coordination, especially as it applies to bar athletics. Both Brian and Cory cannot emphasize enough that repetition of strict movements (e.g., pushups, dips) can elevate your performance but that we shouldn’t forget to utilize different variations of those “basic” exercises for maximum muscle recruitment. Finally, both of these gents just want to “reach people with positivity” so make sure you tune in!

Having A Bigger Purpose with Graham Holmberg of Eleventh Element CrossFit Jun 05, 2017

This week on episode 52 we are back at Eleventh Element CrossFit, this time talking with Graham Holmberg. Graham is a multiple-time CrossFit Games competitor, former Games champion, family man and owner of Eleventh Element CrossFit. Graham was always a voracious athlete and before he found CrossFit, he played multiple sports in high school and college. We discussed how he developed some destructive behaviors such as substance abuse in his younger years and how one event brought him back to himself and God and set him on the path to success. Of course, we couldn’t interview a former Games champ without talking about his training, recovery, coaching and plans for the future. His advice for athletes and non-athletes alike? Have a big vision and slow down to get better.

Core Values of Well Being with Savanna Holmberg of Savy Mama May 30, 2017

We are back with episode 51 of Uncharted Performance coming from Eleventh Element CrossFit. We are talking today with Savanna Holmberg, graduate of the Institute For Integrative Nutrition, nutrition coach at Eleventh Element, mom of 3 and the SavyMama herself. In her coaching style, Savanna advocates for consistency and connection with her clients while focusing on four values: career, spirituality, relationships and nutrition. We discussed how she feels coaching keeps her on track with her own goals and what specific approach to eating that Savanna found is the most effective for her own and her family’s health. Last but not least, we find out what SavyMama is all about and pick up some tips on how to heal oneself through food and natural remedies.

How To Take Responsibility For Your Goals with Pawel Wencel of Uncharted Performance (The Airborne Mind Show) May 15, 2017

Pawel Wencel, is the host and co-creator of Uncharted Performance. He does a phenomenal job seeking out the stories of his guests where he highlights the adversity they’ve had to overcome. What I found most fascinating in this conversation was the process of thinking that Pawel uses to continually achieve his goals. He has a full time corporate job while pursuing his passion project. It’s very easy to blame time, circumstances, or be paralyzed by the enormity of the task ahead. How does he take responsibility for what’s most important? How did he break down his vision into actionable steps? What does that structure look like? These concepts are not just limited to side hustles and passion projects. It’s about figuring out how to make time for whatever is most important to you.

Technique Matters with Mike Cerbus of Power Monkey Fitness May 04, 2017

In the mid-season finale episode 50 we are joined by Mike Cerbus who has competed at multiple US Nationals competitions and American Opens, including medalling at 3 Nationals and 5 American Opens (taking the title in 2011) as well as currently being the weightlifting coach at Power Monkey Fitness. There is a reason that his favorite phrase is “technique matters” in this interview and he truly lives and coaches by this. Mike leads us down a path of becoming a more capable lifter by emphasizing the key: repetition until mastery is achieved has to precede moving on to higher weights or more complex movements. But there are many more gems in this episode so hurry and tune in!

So You Think You Can Deadlift with Shawn Schumaker of Team BSS Apr 25, 2017

In episode 49 of Uncharted Performance we go back to one of the basic movements to develop strength, the deadlift, with Shawn Schumaker. Shawn is the owner of Team BSS Fitness, Ohio Representative for United States Strongman, coach and athlete. We start off with Shawn’s experience in bodybuilding, strongman and now powerlifting. His approach to competing and maximizing your lift is to save your energy and stay calm so it can be channeled towards the lift when it’s go time. Then we delve into the art and science of the deadlift, how Shawn has succeeded in this lift and how he currently trains (including types of accessory work), including some surprising confessions. Think you need to only perform the deadlift frequently to get good at it? Think again.

Finding Yourself with Anjua Maximo and Jen Speed of PURE MVMNT Apr 18, 2017

Episode 48 of Uncharted Performance presents two exciting new guests, Anjua Maximo and Jen Speed. Anjua is the creator of PURE MVMNT, a certified life coach and co-creator of GrooveRyde and Jen is the co-creator of IronWill and a coach at PURE MVMNT. This is not our usual “how to get stronger in your lifts ” type of episode as we explore an entirely different movement practice. Anjua and Jen take us on a journey into the world of sensual dance. They’ve build more than a fitness studio but a place for women to find connection, community and a no-judgement place for self-love to flourish by encouraging self-expression through movement. Their goal is for women to feel great in their bodies but we could all learn to slow down a little and move with intention.

The Joy of The Road with Nate Helming & Craig dos Santos of The Run Experience Apr 16, 2017

On this week’s episode of Uncharted Performance we want to introduce you to Nate Helming and Craig dos Santos, endurance athletes and coaches and founders of The Run Experience in San Francisco. They’ve found a way to connect and unite a community of runners, both in person as well as virtually, by teaching the correct running technique in a way that does not feel overcritical or deprecating. Nate and Craig want to bring back the joy of running before it became equated with athletic punishment. For those of you preparing for an endurance event or if you run regularly but still struggle once in a while, you’ll learn a refreshing new approach. Lastly, we’ll discuss how posture and stability, mobility and strength as well as being in tune with your body can help you run better but also love running more.

The Natural with Lauren Bay Regula of TrAk Athletics Apr 07, 2017

Another olympian joins the ranks of our wonderful guests in episode 46 of Uncharted Performance. Today we welcome Lauren Bay Regula, co-owner of TrAk Athletics, who has gone to multiple Summer Olympic games for softball and won the bronze medal in World Softball Championship in 2016, all as part of team Canada. You’ll find out why Lauren is a fan of taking chances and thinking big, such as coming out of an 8-year retirement to play in the World Championship. With important decisions, she lives by the principle “close your eyes and jump in” (after sleeping on it, of course). We are so inspired by how Lauren has stayed tenacious and humble through this journey!

Live Big with Dave Regula of TrAk Athletics Mar 29, 2017

In episode 45 of Uncharted Performance we visit Trak Athletics and its co-owner, Dave Regula. He tells an inspiring story of a radical lifestyle change that he and his family undertook in order to stay true to themselves. Dave recognizes the importance of training but urges everyone to get out of the gym, even though he owns one. We can do that by playing often, finding new experiences to learn from and not being stuck in that dreaded comfort zone. One of his goals with TrAk was to create a community that was like a family and we think they’ve been more than successful in accomplishing that goal.

Becoming Strongwoman with Christina Bangma of Champs Academy Mar 23, 2017

This week on episode 44 of Uncharted Performance, we're presenting a new guest, Christina Bangma. Christina is a USS lightweight pro Strongwoman. Her journey into the world of strength started out, surprisingly, in running. Why? As one of the main themes of this conversation, the vast majority of people tend to gravitate toward familiar and comfortable things. She didn’t stop there, of course, and used her natural drive to improve and get better as a catalyst to her success as a Strongwoman. We loved Christina’s motto: live, learn and pass it on! Without further adieu, we’d like to pass on all that knowledge, inspiration and advice that she has to you!

Strength Summit Part Three - Progress & Longevity Mar 14, 2017

Episode 43 of Uncharted Performance welcomes back our old friends from the previous two-part mini-series Strength Summit (Part 1 and Part 2), Tom Rini and Lindsey Kelly of Black Flag Athletics, and Mark Valenti of Blind Dog Gym. When we thought we’ve covered it all when to comes to getting strong, there’s a lot more hiding behind the surface! In this episode we dig into our guests’ surprising reasons for first starting working out and training, discuss variables that can help promote longevity in gaining and maintaining strength, as well as some general advice from these seasoned athletes and coaches. The pieces of advice that stand out the most? Don’t get stuck in single modality training, have one plan and commit to it, find what drives, you and seek out the best people at what they do to get to that goal.

The Sport Of Business with Jason Khalipa of NC Fit Mar 07, 2017

Season 5 of Uncharted Performance is here! Let’s kick things off with an 8-time CrossFit Games athlete, 2008 winner, and owner of NCFit, Jason Khalipa. If you’re looking for inspiration, a dose of positivity as well as a no-BS perspective on life’s challenges, this is the interview for you! Jason explains how he is able to stay focused and avoid distractions in his many endeavors while staying true to his 3 macro priorities: family, fitness and business (hint: step #1 would be to determine those priorities and values). We discussed his successes and challenges, self-development lessons and how to reach whatever true potential means for each of us!

Advancing Olympic Weightlifting with Mark Cannella of Columbus Weightlifting Feb 13, 2017

This week is a special treat: a bonus episode right in time for the Arnold Sports festival! Mark Cannella, head coach and president of Columbus Weightlifting and chairman of the Arnold Classic weightlifting competition, joins us for a look inside his coaching career, including mistakes, highlights and what keeps him coming back to it every day. We discussed the growth of the sport of weightlifting, in popularity as well as technique and coaching development, what separates good coaches from poor ones, and how Mark is able to find the metaphorical common language with athletes all across the globe in his seminars and classes. The Arnold Sports festival will be held on March 2nd through the 6th this year.

Vetting Excellence with Jud Logan of Ashland University Feb 07, 2017

This week on Uncharted Performance we’re lucky to bring you another wonderful guest, Jud Logan. Jud is the head track and field coach at Ashland University, former 4-time Olympian, master’s athlete, and a treasure trove of stories and wisdom based on his varied athletic experience. He walks us through his early sports career, the “light giver”, how he found his calling and going to the Olympic Games four times to represent the United States. We also get a taste of his current coaching style, what methods and metrics he chooses and follows, and that certain something that he looks for in his athletes to succeed.

Muscle Activation Technique with Joel Woods of CLE Muscle Lab Feb 01, 2017

Episode 39 of Uncharted performance brings you Joel Woods, creator of CLE Muscle Lab. His approach to fixing bad movement patterns, strengthening weaknesses and simply helping people of all levels of fitness move better is called Muscle Activation Technique (MAT) and its pretty refreshing in the world of same old tired physical therapy routines. We’ll discuss how MAT works, in what order we should progress to avoid injury and develop optimal “fitness”, as well as how to keep your body physically resilient well into old age while still having fun and being active. Joel wants us all to stay strong and be able to exercise for life, not the other way around. Hope you enjoy this episode as much as we did!

The House That Strength Built with TJ Slomka of Old School Iron Gym Jan 24, 2017

This week on Uncharted Performance episode 38 we are joined by TJ Slomka, owner of Old School Iron Gym. As we mention in the podcast, OSI is one of those gyms that you have to visit (as some of our previous guests have) to see for yourself the array of every imaginable piece of equipment that one would need to develop strength, particularly for powerlifters or bodybuilders. Not to mention that TJ is simply a cool guy to hang out with. We'll cover some entrepreneurial topic such as working as a single owner or with a partner and how to keep clients and customers happy, engaged and becoming better. This advice will apply even if you don’t own a gym. So tune in and learn some things!

Establishing Effective Programming with Toby Jurging of SPC Strength & Conditioning Jan 18, 2017

Thanks for joining us for episode 37(b) of Uncharted Performance! This is part II of our talk with Toby Jurging of SPC Strength and Conditioning. As promised, this one focuses on the more “technical” aspects of exercise and training so if you love math, this one is for you (just kidding, we won’t ask you to do any complicated calculations here)! What you will learn is how to be able to effectively critique any program or a given workout of the day to make sure it will be effective as well as safe. This episode is a bit more of a watch and learn but no worries, you’ll get all the concepts by listening too. So what’s Toby’s mantra? There is always a plan, it's progressive, and it accounts for a lot of “intricate things” that make up human movement. Enjoy!

Training Smarter, Not Harder with Toby Jurging of SPC Strength & Conditioning Jan 15, 2017

Part I of episode 37 of Uncharted Performance features Toby Jurging of SPC Strength and Conditioning. In this first and shorter portion of the full interview, we focus on the “soft” aspects of exercise such as how to take care of yourself properly so you can keep rocking out at the gym and what should really count as success in your movement practice. Toby is a seasoned professional; so what’s his take on it? Some TLC on a regular basis will do you good! Keep your eyes peeled for part II where Toby really breaks down the more technical aspects of training, including a little lesson in repetition/set/rest analysis and how to critically review any program.

Squat Like A Boss with Dr. Chad Teague of CODE CHIRO Jan 08, 2017

We’re going "beyond the back” in episode 36 of Uncharted Performance this week. Our guest is Chad Teague, doctor of chiropractic, and owner of CODE CHIRO. Dr. Teague is interested in all aspects of performance, from refining your squat technique to improving digestive and neurological health. This interview is peppered with good advice to correct imbalances in exercise so you can not only feel better but do better in your movement practice. A few things we found particularly interesting from our talk: to use or not to use a lifting belt, benefits of improving thoracic mobility as well as using your feet properly during a squat to maximize force. We also got proof that breathing is more difficult than you think if you do it correctly (because, honestly, how many times have you thought about breathing today?). Enjoy and see you next week!

Become Bulletproof with Matt Stevens of Pure Physio Jan 01, 2017

Ready to become bulletproof? Today, in episode 35 of Uncharted Performance our guest is Matt Stevens, a physical therapist and owner of Pure Physio. Matt spills the beans on what leads to common injuries, how they happen and what we should do to fully recover. The self-professed goal of his practice is to help patients and athletes become more bulletproof in any physical endeavor, not just exercise. Matt’s main focus echoes what we’ve already discussed with other guests this season: you have to address weakness early on or it will grow into an impediment (We’re sensing a theme here!). But remember, knowledge is power so tune in to this week’s episode so you don’t miss out!

The Power of Yes with Beth Anne & Ralph Lazaro of RALABALA Dec 21, 2016

It’s a family affair this week on Episode 34 of Uncharted Performance! We are talking with Beth Anne and Ralph Lazaro of RALABALA. This duo definitely brings energy and positivity, and are sharing their story of health and body image transformation through better nutrition, right approach to goals, and challenging their bodies physically and mentally on a daily basis. Beth Anne and Ralph are a true power couple who have figured out how to help each other succeed and are eager to share that advice with others. Beyond that, Ralph emphasized the importance of dreaming like we’re kids and Beth Anne believes in the strength of the community to help each of us grow and flourish

Becoming Strongman with Brandon Morrison of Lift Big Eat Big Dec 15, 2016

Episode 33 of Uncharted Performance is a special “treat”, champagne not included (watch the video on YouTube)! We caught up with Brandon Morrison of Lift Big Eat Big to dig into what makes Brandon tick, physically and mentally. There is absolutely more to this gent than meets the eye. He shares his experiences with dyscalculia and non-verbal learning disorder and how it impacts his daily life and coaching but, most importantly, how he found a way to manage it. We also didn’t shy away from grilling Brandon on his best tips about gaining strength, especially in how it relates and translates to the Strongman events. We even got wilderness survival tips from Brandon! So don’t miss this one and enjoy!

Strength Summit Part 2 - Turning Theory Into Practice Dec 08, 2016

Part 2 of the Strength Summit (Episode 32) is here! Tom Rini of Black Flag Athletics, Lindsey Nelson of Crossfit Distinction, and Mark Valenti of Blind Dog Gym return to dive right back into all things strength. Unlike the previous episode where we discussed the psychological and psycho-social approaches to developing strength, today is all about breaking down successful training programs and learning how we can implement them to help achieve our goals. Topics discussed include specific models of training, such as the conjugate method, how each of our panelists structures his/her own programming as well as how to troubleshoot plateaus. All three coaches have experiences in different fields of training but one thing they agree on is that while many programs work, the key to developing individual strength is to find what works for you.

Strength Summit Part 1 - Laying The Foundation Nov 30, 2016

Welcome to Season 4, Everyone! The Season of Strength. We’ve done something different for the premiere of this season and we hope you enjoy it. In this episode, Tom Rini of Blag Flag Athletics, Mark Valenti of Blind Dog Gym and Linsdey Nelson of Crossfit Distinction are going to discuss, as you probably guessed from the title, developing strength. We’ve given our guests a bit more freedom to explore the subject this time with minimal guidance and each of them has a very unique perspective on the topic. Strength is a composite of mental and physical attributes which Tom, Mark, and Lindsey will break down for us. A few things we’ll emphasize in this episode are the importance of the mental game, how to achieve the optimal mindset as well as how to choose the right environment for your goals, both inside and outside of the gym. Don’t miss Part 2 of the Strength Summit next week where we’ll break down the more technical approaches to strength development.

Do What Scares You with Nick White of Tremont Athletic Club Nov 06, 2016

If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to leave your professional career behind to pursue your dreams, look no further than this episode of Uncharted Performance. Nick White, our guest this week, left a career in law to open Tremont Athletic Club. We dive right in to learn about how Nick took the leap to entrepreneurship, leaving behind a steady and secure paycheck from his law firm. Nick shares with us his initial fears, what steps he took to make his business grow, how he works daily to keep his team and clients engaged and continually developing to become better versions of themselves. The main theme of this interview is that what often stops us from dreaming big is the fear of losing what we have now, the perceived security of it. Nick’s answer to that is what should truly scare us is missing out and giving up on what we could achieve by taking that first step.

A Delicious Prescription with Brigid Titgemeier of BeingBrigid Oct 29, 2016

Let's keep exploring the topic of nutrition this week on Uncharted Performance. Brigid Titgemeier from the BeingBrigid is our guest this week to teach us a thing or two about why putting good foods in our bodies pays off. Brigid is a dietician with a special focus on functional medicine (we’ll be discussing what that’s all about, too!). Brigid shares her story of conquering a rare disease by eliminating foods she was sensitive to and incorporating in more whole foods. Digestive health is often the missing link that can help many of us achieve optimal well-being. Brigid's blog is full of appetizing meal ideas and we’ll get to find out how she comes up with them. Want to learn what’s on Brigid’s grocery shopping list? Find out in the interview!

The Truth About Supplements with Nicole Gould of Vital Choice Oct 20, 2016

Get ready to learn everything you wanted to know about supplements but were afraid to ask. In this episode of Uncharted Performance, Nicole Gould of Vital Choice, a registered dietitian, is here to shed some light on what supplements we should be using and which ones to stay away from. Nicole teaches us what to look for in picking good quality products, how to decipher the not so good ingredients on the label and what doses of common vitamins are appropriate to take. Of course, we had to discuss major players in the sports nutrition game, such as protein and creatine, but you will also find out how to battle one of the biggest obstacles to achieving overall health (hint: the SAD diet is a big contributing factor). Last but not least, we want to emphasize the importance of educating yourself to make the best choices! Enjoy!

A Story of Self-Transformation with Ben Koenigsberg of Rain City Fit Oct 11, 2016

This week Uncharted Performance talks to Ben Koenigsberg, owner of Rain City Fit in Seattle, Washington. In this episode, we are continuing the theme of conquering psychological and emotional obstacles. Our guest today is a great example of what happens when you take (calculated) risks in an aspiration to achieve your biggest goals even when you don’t have the perfect plan of how to get there. Entrepreneurship and fitness have helped Ben overcome longstanding drug addiction through self-transformation. He realized that what he had to lose by starting a new chapter in life was nothing compared to what he would gain. What can we learn from Ben? Don’t be consumed by paralysis by analysis, start doing something towards your goal right now.

Strength Cures with Jeff Sokol of Sokol Strong Oct 05, 2016

In Episode 26, our guest is Jeff Sokol of Sokol Strong, a StrongFirst Girya Team Lead and FMS certified coach from Seattle, WA. His mission is simply stated but no less inspiring: to build a stronger, healthier, and happier human race, and we touch on each of those elements in this interview. Find out when to use a barbell versus a kettlebell, where to start in kettlebell practice to stay safe, how to progress and what essential movement we should be adding to our arsenal. While Jeff is very passionate about kettlebell training, a large part of the interview is focused on how that training has helped him heal from depression. Most of us can relate to Jeff’s journey in some way, so please share his message and we hope you enjoy this episode!

Building Inner Strength & Resilience Through with Kate Spinner Oct 01, 2016

Welcome to Episode 25 with Kate Spinner (Rawlings) of Coca CrossFit! Kate is a treasure trove of honesty, vulnerability and amazing strength. She shares the ups and downs of her journey and perseverance throughout it all, from completing in the Crossfit Games, significant injuries, struggles with substance abuse, to loss of a child. In addition to being a former CrossFit Games athlete, a coach, a mother and a business owner, Kate is the founder of a great non-profit, I Am Stronger. Its goal is to help girls and young women to take ownership of their lives and develop confidence by providing access to and clothing for physical training. She stresses the underlying message of the importance of being open, finding and connecting with a community and reaching out to find help.

The Path To The Platform with Cory Moore Sep 24, 2016

Thanks for joining us for Episode 24! Cory Moore of CTown CrossFit is our guest today and he brings his incredible energy to get us motivated and headed in the positive direction. He wants to inspire the world by taking us through his journey from humble beginnings to being a bar athlete, to CrossFit, to competing in Olympic Weightlifting and to now being a coach. Cory shares his best recommendations and tips about being an athlete and a coach, competing and getting your mindset right for all that life demands of us. We’ll discuss the essentials such as finding a good support system and what venturing out of your comfort zone can do for you. Last but not least, Cory stresses the importance of building a good foundation by developing strength with the basic movements for many repetitions first before attempting to scale up. Enjoy!

Pursuit of Life Through Purpose and Positivity with Lindsey Nelson Sep 16, 2016

In Episode 23 of Uncharted Performance, we meet with our old friend Lindsey Nelson from Episode 4. In the first half of our talk, we catch up on all things training and nutrition as well as Lindsey’s seriously awesome goals for the upcoming year and on. She also outlines her new approach to improving strength and endurance and the importance of fueling the body for your goals. In the second half, we expand on the topic that we briefly touched on in Episode 4, body image and the conscious effort to choose positivity. Lindsey opens up about her personal long-term struggle and, at some points, an obsession with not feeling “perfect” or looking like that standard society sets for us. We learn how CrossFit has helped her feel strong and healthy in her own body and how we can achieve that for ourselves. This episode will resonate with both women and men as the theme of living intentionally and doing everything with a purpose persist throughout.

Yoga For The Rest of Us with Sandy Gross Sep 08, 2016

Thanks for joining us for Episode 22 of Uncharted Performance! We’re joined today by a wonderful yoga teacher and a self-professed movement nerd, Sandy Gross of Evolution Yoga. Sandy starts the conversation off by sharing her own story of taking responsibility and finding a path to heal herself. She then introduces us to the tools we can use to fix ourselves and troubleshoot bothersome pain or dysfunction. In this episode, you’ll learn how to approach yoga on your own terms, to integrate the experiences of the mind and body together, and lastly, see yourself more clearly as you develop a deeper understanding of how the body works. We also go over how Yoga Tune Up® can further athletic performance, speed up recovery and erase pain.

Maximizing Athletic Performance with Leonard Taylor Sep 02, 2016

Welcome to the 1st episode of Season 3, everyone! Leonard Taylor of Health 360 is here to help us understand the process of youth athletic training to maximize athletic performance on the field of play. He’s an experienced youth strength and conditioning coach and whether you’re a young athlete yourself, a coach, or simply exercise for the health benefits, Lenny has plenty of valuable information to offer. The discussion ranges from dealing with the realities of training young athletes to effective communication. We also examine the importance of the Functional Movement Screen (FMS) which can help people of both genders and all ages, how to ensure long term development, and the mental work and motivation it takes to achieve any exercise, training, or sports goal. Remember, improvement is a process, not a destination!

A Look Back: Season Two of Uncharted Performance - Highlights Aug 14, 2016

It is a wrap for Season Two of Uncharted Performance! Before moving forward it is always worthwhile to take a look at where we have been. Our guests delivered an incredible amount of information relating to entrepreneurship, mindfulness, meditation, movement, strength and conditioning, injury prevention, martial arts, olympic weightlifting, self-defense, and fitness. However, the lessons and guidance provided are far more reaching than these superficial topics. Each guest exemplifies an immense passion to serve within each of their respective fields - to help others achieve excellence and succeed, to recognize and maximize our potential. We are honored to share their message with you! To find out more from each of our guests from this past season, head over to www.unchartedperformance.com for full show notes including contact information on how to reach them. Make sure to also follow them on their social media accounts.

Using Nutrition to Treat and Prevent Disease with Patricia and Daniel Urcuyo of PaleoMD Aug 06, 2016

Patricia and Daniel Urcuyo have made it their family's mission to promote wellness through food. In the season finale, Episode 20, of Uncharted Performance, we are chatting with the founders of PaleoMD, makers of Paleo Pizza. The Urcuyo siblings have an impressive goal in mind: to change healthcare through sound nutrition by emphasizing disease prevention and promoting wellness. For them, the paleo movement was the stepping stone to uncover their potential and starting a business together to help others feel better and become healthier. In this episode, find out about Daniel and Patricia's transformative health and fitness journeys, the secret behind their great tasting pizza and finally, be inspired by their message of going for it and staying true to yourself.

Everything You Need To Know About Mobility and Movement with R.E. Lewis Jul 29, 2016

Welcome to Episode 19 of Uncharted Performance! Today, we have the pleasure of talking to R.E. Lewis of CTown CrossFit, a martial artist, CrossFit coach, Yoga Tune Up® teacher and an all-around movement enthusiast. We discuss how building a solid foundation is the key to mastering any athletic endeavor, get the low down on mobility and how to find the best tools for you, and R.E.'s own road to rising above the challenges and finding personal empowerment and peace. Even more importantly, we delve into discovering your own body integrity, learn the power of self care and get some tips on how not to hurt ourselves outside the gym with improper body mechanics.

How To Become A Better Weightlifter with Drew Dillon & Chelsea Kyle of Project Lift Jul 21, 2016

We get straight to business in Episode 18 of Uncharted Performance. We are once again joined by Drew Dillon (Episode 7) and Chelsea Kyle (Episode 8) of Project Lift for a complete walkthrough of the Olympic lifts: the snatch and the clean and jerk. We break down each lift and cover the points of performance for the positions involved in both from the set-up to the catch and recovery. Drew and Chelsea will also provide us with insights on a number of possible faults as well as corrections. In addition to the actual lifts we discuss the importance of coaching each athlete individually, the benefits of a proper and dynamic warm-up, developing habits when performing the lifts, understanding angles, and the value of breathing and bracing in every lift. You'll be exposed to a fresh and open-minded approach to coaching and performing the Olympic lifts. PR time, baby!

Developing and Harnessing Skills for Self Defense, Sport and Life with Rob McKeeman Jul 17, 2016

How do you develop a skill? Consistent practice, training, repetitions, and more repetitions under varying circumstances and scenarios are all key factors that contribute to the overall development of a particular skill. Over time and through our dedicated approach that skill becomes second nature; it becomes automatic. Whether it is typing on a keyboard or performing the Clean and Jerk, we are able execute or react without thinking. We just do. The ability to defend oneself is yet another skill. You have to put in the time and effort to become proficient at it. Enter the uncanny Rob McKeeman of Endeavor Defense and Fitness. A specialist of self defense, defensive firearms, and high level highland games athlete, Rob teaches us how to develop the physical and mental capacity to understand and perform under stressful conditions. The skills, discipline and confidence we learn along the way can be applied easily to any other endeavor (pun intended). We promise you this will be the most fun you will have learning about self defense and firearms. Strap in and enjoy!

How To Improve in CrossFit Through Self Defense and Martial Arts Training with Aaron Jannetti Jul 10, 2016

According to the statistics, it is rather unlikely that any one of us will be involved in an active shooter situation. However, if and when it should happen, will we be prepared? Episode 16 of Uncharted Performance is an honest discussion with Aaron Jannetti of Endeavor Defense and Fitness regarding the realities of violence and our capabilities to respond during hostile incidents. We also discuss the pursuit of mental and physical preparedness through martial arts, Olympic weightlifting, CrossFit, and the benefit of studying and practicing a variety of modalities to develop a well rounded individual, athlete, and coach.

Helping Athletes Overcome Injuries and Reduce Stress with Dr. Erik Peters Jul 01, 2016

Lead an active lifestyle? Weekend warrior? Desk Jockey? CrossFitter? By not taking simple and consistent steps to take care of ourselves we are adding unnecessary stress and pressure on our nervous systems. For Episode 15 of Uncharted Performance we have the opportunity to find out how to counteract the damage incurred by our bodies due to training, improper movement, and sometimes negligence. In our conversation with Dr. Erik Peters of Precision Active Health we cover how we should be moving, different methods to balance and correct poor adaptations, how with the help of a chiropractor we can address restrictions to free up joints and soft tissues, as well as what techniques we can employ ourselves to regain optimal movement.

Athlete Development, Enhancing Movement, and The Limitations of CrossFit with Tom Rini Jun 25, 2016

How often do you question your coach, boss, mentor, or any other authority figure? Probably not enough, if ever. There is often an underlying assumption that whenever we're given something to complete, be it a workout or a project, that there is an underlying basis for that task. But what is it and why? Enter Tom Rini of Black Flag Athletics for Episode 14 of Uncharted Performance. A highly accomplished veteran of the Strength and Conditioning game, Tom provides extensive insight to help us understand what we should be doing in the gym along with the foundational principles of why we are doing it. We shed light on appropriate movement patterns, how they are to be corrected and enhanced, how we can break through the limitations of CrossFit, and how as coaches we can prepare our athletes for success. Start asking, start questioning, start with why!

The Most Powerful Practice To Improve Overall Performance with Ofosu Born Jones-Quartey of Born I Music Jun 19, 2016

We are constantly on the go, bombarded by information left and right. Stressors attack us from every angle. How can we cope? Most often, we don't. We allow the friction of externalities to dictate our behavior, relationships, and performance. The one thing that allows us to properly engage and respond is rarely actively engaged and trained to manage the numerous and various internal and external forces pulling at us. Yes, the practice of mindfulness and meditation is a skill. Ofosu Born Jones-Quartey of Born I Music, takes us on a profound journey in Episode 13 as we challenge ourselves to be present. As a hip-hop artist, entrepreneur, teacher, husband and father, he is not short on responsibilities. Ofosu's approach and implementation of mindfulness and meditation allows the layperson to relate to and adopt this impactful tool. It can contribute to greater overall performance, be it on stage, in the arena, at the office, or simply improve day to day interaction with friends, family, loved ones, and coworkers. Remove the clutter from your life, find your purpose and embrace the present.

Extending Your Quality of Life, Setting The Right Expectations and Developing Confidence with Bill Russell Jun 08, 2016

When is it finally time to make a change? It wasn’t until his 40’s that Bill Russell had enough. The compounding effect of not paying attention to his decisions and behaviors took a toll on his physical appearance and wallet. He turned it around with CrossFit and started helping others improve their lifestyles as well. How? Find out in this interview. You are never too old or too young to start taking care of yourself and doing something that will leave a positive effect on your health and well being. Let that time be now. Watch or listen to Episode 12 of Uncharted Performance with Bill Russell of CrossFit Cleveland as we discuss the heyday of CrossFit, building a community, defining your personality and focus as a facility, developing and improving members as well as finding what is right for you, just to name a few. Prepare for change!

Ryan Speed on Loving Life, Human Movement and Strength Training For Runners Jun 03, 2016

Are we starting with the right questions? For Episode 11 we are joined by former United States Marine, movement and endurance training expert, running coach, creator of IRONWill, and an absolutely all around great person, Ryan Speed. We dive right into his background and how he developed his passion for running. Ryan's journey led him to discover a different approach to endurance training; one that he enthusiastically shares with others. Our discussion covers developing the skill for human movement, regaining balance, showing runners how to be strong and how it benefits them, as well as how endurance training can benefit those who are not so keen on running. Ryan's knowledge and experience are only surpassed by his heart, enthusiasm, generosity, and willingness to share his love with others. Join us for this episode and get inspired to live beyond the norm!

Sidepreneuring, Leveraging Networks, and the Nooma Life with Brandon & Jarred Smith May 15, 2016

Hockey is an exceptionally tough sport. Of the big four, it is arguably the most dangerous sport to play due to it's very physical nature and the speed at which it is played. Making it to the pro-level is a great accomplishment in itself, but what if you're not the next Tyler Seguin or Vladimir Tarasenko? If you pay attention and prepare accordingly, the game of hockey is full of lessons, both inside and outside the rink; it is the perfect arena in which to hone and develop your skills for after and outside the game. Meet Brandon and Jarred Smith of Nooma, a lifestyle brand focusing on healthy living and an active lifestyle. In Episode 10 of Uncharted Performance, learn how these two gentlemen took advantage of their hockey careers and set out on a business evolution. From identifying a personal need and moonlighting as sideprenuers to moving out their Craigslist office into a brand new warehouse facility to house their expanding operations, let them take you on a "journey to the ultimate you".

The Will to Win, Having an Attitude, and Killing Monsters with Mark Valenti May 06, 2016

No matter how far along you are in your strength journey, sooner or later you will hit a plateau - it's an undisputed fact of life. Sorry. Now time to get over it and who better to get you to bust through that plateau than the owner of one of the strongest, if not the strongest gym in Northeast Ohio. Mark Valenti, the co-owner of Blind Dog Gym, has over 20 years experience competing in the Highland Games and Strongman competitions, and is one of the top masters athletes in both sports. In Episode 9 of Uncharted Performance we learn how Mark has been able to compete at such a high level in both sports for such a long time. We also discuss his mentors and their influence on his coaching philosophy as he develops the strength in his athletes and clients. The culture at Blind Dog is one that cuts through the bullshit of the fitness industry to foster true strength development through working your butt off and sheer desire to be better. Be sure to watch out for an Uncharted exclusive as Mark lets us in on the meaning behind Hoist the Black. Time to BE SAVAGE!

Chelsea Kyle on Leadership, the Importance of Patience and Overcoming Injury May 01, 2016

Episode 8 of Uncharted Performance brings you Chelsea Kyle, who is not only an elite female weightlifter but is also a fantastic coach at Project Lift. We discuss topics ranging from the leadership philosophy she follows (shout out to Simon Sinek), the value of patience, and to the way she tailors her coaching style to fit male and female athletes. Chelsea brings an extremely positive attitude, tons of energy and irreplaceable personal experience in discussing her injuries, recovery process, breaking bad habits, and coaching athletes through the struggles of being weightlifters. Make the right decision and listen to the "Overlord" :)

Letting Go of What You Know, Opening Up Your Mind and Learning to Dance with Drew Dillon Apr 22, 2016

Are you ready to step outside the established dogma and become a better athlete, coach, and person? For Episode 7 of Uncharted Performance we are joined by one of the top Olympic Weightlifting coaches in the country, Drew Dillon, co-founder of both Project Lift and the Weightlifting League. Drew provides us with a refreshing look on how to become a better coach and how Olympic Weightlifting can be a great tool to prepare an individual for life outside the confines of a gym. We discuss the importance of continued development as both coach and athlete, letting go of what you know or think is right, being comfortable to ask why, fixing root causes versus addressing symptoms, building self-belief, breaking mental barriers, and being inspired by the unlikeliest of experiences. Strap in and enjoy the show!

Bootstrapping, Having Thick Skin, Winging It and Making the Cover of Forbes with Kait Tisler Apr 15, 2016

What do "Pinky and the Brain" and a successful young entrepreneur have in common? World domination? No, but close. How about the relentless desire and effort to become better? For Episode 6 of Uncharted Performance, we have an amazing conversation with the Co-Founder of Paleo To Me, Kait Tisler. We learn from Kait how identifying a personal need can be the first step to something special and how being first to market can be of great advantage for that something special to grow into your own business. Kait shares with us the importance of taking calculated risks, learning to say "no", and the almighty Google search. We also dive into a discussion on nutrition and knowing how to make our eating choices easy. Finding what works for you is more than half the battle! It's our pleasure to share with you Kait and Paleo To Me's journey to make healthy foods more accessible.

Capitalize On Your Experience and Follow Your Passion with Zosimo Maximo Apr 11, 2016

Searching for your calling? In Episode 5, Zosimo Maximo of GrooveRyde was a fashion designer, TV director, brand manager, and sports media representative just to name a few, before becoming the Co-Founder of GrooveRyde. Since his youth and throughout his varied careers, fitness always played a major part of his life. Find out how he took advantage of these endeavors to set a course for his future. Zosimo provides insights into how to establish networks, continually develop valuable skill sets, map out visions and goals, create and elevate community, develop a brand, and serve a higher purpose to those around you. There is no perfect formula except knowing that there is one as long as you are willing to put it all on the line!

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