
Advertise on podcast: The Starting Block Podcast
Rating
4.9from
This podcast has
123 episodes
Language
EnglishPublisher
John Nelson & Chris ScarboroughExplicit
Yes
Date created
2022/10/08
Latest episode
2026/02/04
Average duration
45 min.
Release period
28 days
Description
At The Starting Block Podcast, we want to give you, THE ATHLETE, THE COACH & THE PARENT the tools to WIN both on and off the field. Our team brings over 65+ years of combined experience in Athletics, Fitness and Sports Medicine. Our mission is to help you win and build our communities by passing on our knowledge & experiences, as well as that of our colleagues across the world. Our areas of expertise include: strength training, rehabilitation from injuries, power & speed development, nutrition as well as the mental/spiritual side of athletics.
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Podcast episodes
Check latest episodes from The Starting Block Podcast podcast
Ep. 124: Guest Interview - Elijah Holyfield & David Buer
2026/02/04
In this Guest Interview, John and Chris welcome back Elijah Holyfield and David Buer to discuss athletic development, the transition from football to WWE, and the importance of isometric training. They explore the misconceptions surrounding strength training, the role of the nervous system, and the need for discipline and proper execution in training. The conversation emphasizes the significance of understanding the true purpose of training and the importance of being prepared for athletic challenges.
**John, Chris and many of the show's guests are NOT licensed healthcare providers & make NO claims to be. The information provided in this show is not intended to be medical advice & should not be misconstrued as such. You assume all risk & liability by implementing any of the information shared on this show. You should ALWAYS seek the opinions of a qualified healthcare provider in your state/country before using any of the information provided in this show*
Chapters
00:00 Welcome to the Starting Block Podcast
02:15 Elijah's Transition to WWE
05:13 The Rise of Isometric Training
10:23 Understanding Strength Beyond Numbers
15:18 The Importance of Proper Execution
20:16 Communicating Training Concepts to Young Athletes
29:53 The Evolution of Measurement in Sports Training
33:08 Understanding Nervous System Training
36:04 The Importance of Signal Clarity
40:20 The Role of Discipline in Athletic Training
45:02 Attention to Detail in High-Level Performance
51:16 The Cost of Compromise in Training
57:09 The Path to Mastery and Preparedness
Ep. 123: Guest Interview: Kayla Girgen, Author of "Ruck Fit"
2026/01/16
In this guest interview, John and Chris welcome dietician, personal trainer and author, Kayla Girgen. Kayla joins the show to discuss her new book, "Ruck Fit" as well as share her journey from the corporate world to the fitness industry and more.
**John, Chris and many of the show's guests are NOT licensed healthcare providers & make NO claims to be. The information provided in this show is not intended to be medical advice & should not be misconstrued as such. You assume all risk & liability by implementing any of the information shared on this show. You should ALWAYS seek the opinions of a qualified healthcare provider in your state/country before using any of the information provided in this show*
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Starting Block Podcast
02:35 Guest Introduction: Kayla Girgen and Her Journey
06:12 Nutrition Insights and the Role of Registered Dietitians
12:04 Understanding Blood Sugar Management
19:58 Exploring Rucking: Benefits and Community Engagement
27:19 The Rise of Rucking and 75 Hard
28:32 Walking as Exercise: Debating Its Value
31:03 Progressing in Rucking: Weight and Challenge
33:55 Rucking Mechanics: Posture and Weight Management
36:13 Rucking for Athletes: Building Endurance
38:13 Rucking as a Gateway to Strength Training
40:16 Incorporating Strength Exercises into Rucking
41:25 Choosing Between a Backpack and Weighted Vest
47:00 Getting Started with Rucking: Tips and Resources
Preorder Ruck Fit on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4ggD4Ip
Follow Kayla on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kaylagirgenrd/
Sign up for Kayla's free weekly newsletter: https://wintheweek.gr8.com/
Kayla's go-to rucking set-up: GORUCK Rucker 4.0 & weight plates
Ep. 122: Q&A - Water Training & How Isometrics Can Influence Speed
2025/11/21
In this week's Q&A, John and Chris discuss the use of training with water based tools, how isometric lunges impact speed and protein supplementation.
**John, Chris and many of the show's guests are NOT licensed healthcare providers & make NO claims to be. The information provided in this show is not intended to be medical advice & should not be misconstrued as such. You assume all risk & liability by implementing any of the information shared on this show. You should ALWAYS seek the opinions of a qualified healthcare provider in your state/country before using any of the information provided in this show*
Chapters
00:00 Welcome to the Starting Block Podcast
02:58 Athlete Development and Training Insights
06:09 The Importance of Female Athlete Training
08:03 Evaluating Training Tools: Water-Filled Balls
19:55 Iso-Extreme Lunges and Sprinting Speed
29:39 Nutrition and Protein Recommendations
Ep. 121: Guest Interview - Coach Anthony Cellitti
2025/10/30
In this weeks Guest Interview, John and Chris welcome Coach Anthony Cellitti to the show. The guys discuss various topics, including the importance of building relationships with athletes, the effectiveness of the 1x20 training system, and the challenges associated with training athletes in todays society due to the influence of social media and more.
**John, Chris and many of the show's guests are NOT licensed healthcare providers & make NO claims to be. The information provided in this show is not intended to be medical advice & should not be misconstrued as such. You assume all risk & liability by implementing any of the information shared on this show. You should ALWAYS seek the opinions of a qualified healthcare provider in your state/country before using any of the information provided in this show*
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Starting Block Podcast
03:06 Guest Introduction: Coach Anthony Saletti
05:59 Anthony's Coaching Journey and Philosophy
08:52 Ideal Athlete Qualities and Training Dynamics
11:51 Training Methodologies: The 1x20 System Explained
14:52 Practical Application of the 1x20 System
17:56 Challenges in Convincing Athletes to Train Differently
20:58 Bastardized Training Programs: Lessons Learned
24:31 Exploring Training Techniques and Recovery
30:12 The Challenge of Convincing Young Athletes
35:57 Building Relationships and Communication with Athletes
37:17 Innovations in Training Tools and Techniques
Ep. 120: Q & A - Leg Drive, Hamstring Issues, Enhanced Recovery
2025/10/09
In this week's Q & A John and Chris dive into the importance of leg power in pitching, the role of blood flow in enhancing recovery & recurring hamstring injuries.
**John, Chris and many of the show's guests are NOT licensed healthcare providers & make NO claims to be. The information provided in this show is not intended to be medical advice & should not be misconstrued as such. You assume all risk & liability by implementing any of the information shared on this show. You should ALWAYS seek the opinions of a qualified healthcare provider in your state/country before using any of the information provided in this show*
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Starting Block Podcast
02:43 Understanding Athletic Development and Training Methods
05:17 The Importance of Leg Power in Pitching
11:24 Mechanics and Variability in Athletic Performance
16:56 The Role of Blood Flow in Performance and Recovery
20:36 Addressing Recurring Hamstring Injuries
Ep. 119: Q & A - The Importance of Structured Training
2025/09/26
In this weeks episode, hosts John Nelson and Chris Scarborough reconnect after a summer break to discuss their training experiences and their summer of coaching athletes. They delve into the importance of evaluating fitness content on social media, identifying effective training methods, and the significance of structured programs in athletic development. The conversation emphasizes the need for coaches to communicate clearly and monitor key performance indicators to ensure athletes' long-term success.
**John, Chris and many of the show's guests are NOT licensed healthcare providers & make NO claims to be. The information provided in this show is not intended to be medical advice & should not be misconstrued as such. You assume all risk & liability by implementing any of the information shared on this show. You should ALWAYS seek the opinions of a qualified healthcare provider in your state/country before using any of the information provided in this show*
Chapters
00:00 Welcome Back and Show Overview
05:00 Summer Updates and Training Insights
14:05 Evaluating Fitness Content on Social Media
17:08 Evaluating Athletic Training Techniques
20:01 The Importance of Structured Coaching
22:22 The Role of Repetition in Training
24:43 Balancing Entertainment and Effectiveness in Coaching
25:34 Monitoring Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
30:25 Understanding Progression in Athletic Training
Ep. 118: Athlete Spotlight - Drake Meeks, Pitcher - Southern Miss
2025/08/05
In Athlete Spotlight episode, John and Chris welcome Drake Meeks, a talented pitcher from the University of Southern Mississippi. They discuss Drake's journey from a youth baseball player to eventual collegiate athlete. Topics include: the importance of body control in pitching, and the mental toughness required to succeed. Drake also shares his experiences with injury and recovery, including his Tommy John surgery, and emphasizes the significance of training and preparation. The conversation concludes with valuable advice for aspiring athletes and insights into the competitive nature of college baseball.
**John, Chris and many of the show's guests are NOT licensed healthcare providers & make NO claims to be. The information provided in this show is not intended to be medical advice & should not be misconstrued as such. You assume all risk & liability by implementing any of the information shared on this show. You should ALWAYS seek the opinions of a qualified healthcare provider in your state/country before using any of the information provided in this show*
Ep. 117: The Achilles Tendon Epidemic
2025/07/10
In this episode, John and Chris discuss the multifaceted nature of athletic injuries, particularly focusing on the recent surge in Achilles tendon injuries in professional sports. They explore various factors contributing to these injuries, including training methods, the impact of modern technology and light exposure, and potential links to COVID-19 vaccinations. The conversation emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to athlete health and injury prevention, urging coaches and trainers to consider all aspects of an athlete's environment and lifestyle.
**John, Chris and many of the show's guests are NOT licensed healthcare providers & make NO claims to be. The information provided in this show is not intended to be medical advice & should not be misconstrued as such. You assume all risk & liability by implementing any of the information shared on this show. You should ALWAYS seek the opinions of a qualified healthcare provider in your state/country before using any of the information provided in this show*
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Athletic Development
00:34 The Achilles Tendon Controversy
13:42 The Impact of Blue Light on Injuries
29:21 Exploring COVID-19 Vaccine and Musculoskeletal Disorders
Ep. 116: Q & A - Weight Gain/Speed Loss & Yielding vs Extreme Iso's
2025/06/18
In this episode John and Chris discuss various aspects of athletic development, focusing on the relationship between weight gain and speed loss, the differences between yielding isometrics and iso-extremes, and addressing common injuries like brachialis pain in pitching.
Chapters
00:00 Welcome Back to the Starting Block Podcast
06:00 Understanding Weight Gain and Speed Loss
16:01 Isometric Training: Yielding vs. ISO Extremes
28:03 Addressing Brachialis Pain in Pitching
**John, Chris and many of the show's guests are NOT licensed healthcare providers & make NO claims to be. The information provided in this show is not intended to be medical advice & should not be misconstrued as such. You assume all risk & liability by implementing any of the information shared on this show. You should seek the opinions of a qualified healthcare provider in your state/country before using any of the information provided in this show*
Ep. 114: Guest Interview - Dr. Jen Perez of Gait Happens, Part II
2025/04/30
In this guest episode John and Chris welcome back Dr. Jen Perez from Gait Happens. They discuss the importance of foot health in athletic performance, the impact of footwear on foot function, common foot problems faced by athletes, and the significance of proper foot care and strength training. The conversation also delves into the causes of bunions and the importance of preventative care to avoid surgery. Dr. Perez also discusses various aspects of foot health, including the importance of muscle strength in foot function, the connection between ankle sprains and foot pain, and the relationship between pelvic floor health and foot function.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Starting Block Podcast
02:30 Welcoming Dr. Jen Perez Back
03:18 Gate Happens: Mission and New Products
05:15 Foot Health Education for All Practitioners
06:04 The Impact of Foot Function on Overall Health
08:35 Footwear and Its Effects on Athletic Performance
11:10 Strategies for Foot Health and Recovery
13:29 Introducing the Foot Health Kit
16:33 Assessing Toe Strength and Function
19:34 Common Foot Problems in Athletes
21:06 Understanding Bunions and Their Causes
28:57 Improving Foot Function and Aesthetics
30:52 The Importance of Muscle Strength in Foot Health
33:40 The Connection Between Ankle Sprains and Foot Pain
36:04 Pelvic Floor and Foot Health
40:26 Orthotics: When to Use and When to Avoid
45:25 Rehabilitation and Return to Sport
52:31 Foot Health Practices for Athletes
**John, Chris and many of the show's guests are NOT licensed healthcare providers & make NO claims to be. The information provided in this show is not intended to be medical advice & should not be misconstrued as such. You assume all risk & liability by implementing any of the information shared on this show. You should seek the opinions of a qualified healthcare provider in your state/country before using any of the information provided in this show*
Ep. 113: Guest Interview - Michael Fahey, Westside vs the World/OVR Performance
2025/03/26
In this week's guest interview, John and Chris are joined by Michael Fahey, the director of Westside vs the World and Co-Founder of OVR Performance. The conversation explores Michael's journey from film to sports, the creation of his documentary, and the innovative approach of OVR Performance in revolutionizing athletic training through affordable and effective velocity-based training tools. Michael shares insights on the importance of coaching, the evolution of training methodologies, and the challenges faced in the sports industry.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Starting Block Podcast
02:35 Guest Introduction: Michael Fahey
03:32 Michael's Journey into the Industry
10:52 The Impact of Forks Over Knives
12:55 Transitioning to NFL Network and Beyond
16:26 Creating West Side Versus the World
18:13 The Experience of Filmmaking
22:52 OVR Performance and Velocity-Based Training
31:45 The Framework of Lifting and Coaching
36:01 Learning from the Greats: Insights from Louie Simmons
40:41 Transitioning from Filmmaking to Coaching
44:50 OVR Performance: Revolutionizing Training Technology
51:59 Innovative Jump Systems and Their Impact
01:00:04 The Future of OVR: Apps and Connectivity
**John, Chris and many of the show's guests are NOT licensed healthcare providers & make NO claims to be. The information provided in this show is not intended to be medical advice & should not be misconstrued as such. You assume all risk & liability by implementing any of the information shared on this show. You should seek the opinions of a qualified healthcare provider in your state/country before using any of the information provided in this show*
Ep. 112: Q &A - Measuring Progress Beyond Weight
2025/03/06
In this week's Q & A, John & Chris discuss focusing on how to measure progress beyond just weight. They emphasize the significance of proper positioning in training, the role of velocity and intent in movement, and the foundational aspect of position in achieving athletic performance. The conversation highlights the need for a holistic approach to training that prioritizes movement quality and injury prevention.
**John, Chris and many of the show's guests are NOT licensed healthcare providers & make NO claims to be. The information provided in this show is not intended to be medical advice & should not be misconstrued as such. You assume all risk & liability by implementing any of the information shared on this show. You should seek the opinions of a qualified healthcare provider in your state/country before using any of the information provided in this show*
Ep. 110: Guest Interview - David Buer, Part IV
2025/02/12
In this week's guest interview John & Chris welcome back a regular to the show, David Buer.
The guys tackle a number of topics including: the power of mentorship in shaping youth athletes, authenticity in coaching, System X, discipline, navigating stress with emotion resilience and much more.
**John, Chris and many of the show's guests are NOT licensed healthcare providers & make NO claims to be. The information provided in this show is not intended to be medical advice & should not be misconstrued as such. You assume all risk & liability by implementing any of the information shared on this show. You should seek the opinions of a qualified healthcare provider in your state/country before using any of the information provided in this show*
Chapters
00:00 The Importance of Mentorship in Youth Development
03:03 Embodiment and Authenticity in Coaching
06:14 System X: A New Approach to Training
09:08 The Role of Discipline in Execution
11:58 Handling Stress and Emotional Resilience
15:12 The Critical Nature of Execution
17:50 Mental Health and Discipline in Society
24:25 Cultural Shift Towards Meritocracy
25:27 Understanding Physical Execution and Mental Engagement
27:52 The Importance of Recovery in Training
33:46 Integrating Advanced Training Modalities
40:24 Preparing for Real-Life Demands
46:11 The Balance Between Performance and Recovery
Ep. 110: Q & A - Extreme Joint Range of Motion & Red Light
2025/01/30
In this week's Q & A, John and Chris answer you questions regarding:
Does extreme or exaggerated range of motion help you to improve force production?Do you recommend red/infrared therapy?
*John, Chris and many of the show's guests are NOT licensed healthcare providers & make NO claims to be. The information provided in this show is not intended to be medical advice & should not be misconstrued as such. You assume all risk & liability by implementing any of the information shared on this show. You should seek the opinions of a qualified healthcare provider in your state/country before using any of the information provided in this show*
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Athletic Development
01:35 Exploring Extreme Ranges of Motion
06:01 The Balance of Range of Motion and Force Production
09:36 Understanding PAILs and Rails in Training
14:12 The Benefits of Red and Infrared Light Therapy
19:11 Bridging the Gap: Technology and Athletic Performance
Ep. 109: Guest Interview - Tyson Gunter, Team USA Paralympian
2025/01/21
In this guest interview, John & Chris are joined by Team USA Paralympian, Tyson Gunter. Tyson represented the United States in the 2016 Rio Olympics, and also has two World Championship Silver Medals. Tyson shares his experiences representing the United States as well as providing insights on his current framework for training athletes. He also discusses the role of various supplements like creatine, caffeine, and collagen in enhancing athletic capabilities.
*John, Chris and many of the show's guests are NOT licensed healthcare providers & make NO claims to be. The information provided in this show is not intended to be medical advice & should not be misconstrued as such. You assume all risk & liability by implementing any of the information shared on this show. You should seek the opinions of a qualified healthcare provider in your state/country before using any of the information provided in this show*
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Starting Block Podcast
04:10 Welcoming Tyson Gunter: A Paralympian's Journey
06:00 Tyson's Athletic Background and Discovery of Paralympics
11:00 Overcoming Challenges: Vision Impairment in Sports
13:55 The Impact of Vision on Performance
18:55 Nutrition: Simplifying the Complex
29:53 The Role of Supplements in Athletic Performance
31:24 The Necessity of Supplements in Modern Nutrition
32:21 The Importance of Sleep for Athletes
36:54 Key Supplements for Athletic Performance
42:14 The Role of Collagen in Recovery
48:28 Optimizing Protein Intake for Young Athletes
53:29 The Balance of Supplements and Real Food
58:40 Simplicity in Athletic Training and Recovery
Podcast reviews
Read The Starting Block Podcast podcast reviews
MikeR_14 2024/05/30
Great show!
These guys are awesome! I’ve listened to several episodes and they have interviewed a few of my friends and done a great job! It is great to have some...
dubyah1181 2023/01/28
An Information Goldmine
John and Chris are changing the lives of athletes every day. Their training approach is so much more than just building stronger and faster athletes t...
AustinS@chog_media 2023/01/29
Informative Podcast
The Starting Block podcast does a great job of keeping the listener interested and entertained while informing them about a variety of great athletic ...
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