leadership

S03|E259 How Challenges Shape Us | Josh Poahway
S03|E259 How Challenges Shape Us | Josh Poahway Leadership, Culture & CommunicationStrength Coach Podcast

S03|E259 How Challenges Shape Us | Josh Poahway

Josh Poahway joins the Samson Strength Coach Collective to discuss returning to Cache Public Schools, building trust with athletes and coaches, and how personal struggles helped shape his leadership philosophy. From community impact to mentorship and program development, Josh shares lessons on creating meaningful relationships and developing young people beyond sports.
June 17, 2026
S03|E258 Embracing the Director Role | Johnny Fabrizius
S03|E258 Embracing the Director Role | Johnny Fabrizius Program Building & OperationsStrength Coach Podcast

S03|E258 Embracing the Director Role | Johnny Fabrizius

In this episode of the Samson Strength Coach Collective, Johnny Fabrizius shares his transition into a director-level leadership role at Florida State University. The conversation explores relationship building, emotional intelligence, delegation, and how effective leaders stay connected with their staff while managing the demands of a high-level athletic department.
June 17, 2026
S03|E247 Mastering Growth Mindset with Leo Totten
S03|E247 Mastering Growth Mindset with Leo Totten Athlete Development & PerformanceStrength Coach Podcast

S03|E247 Mastering Growth Mindset with Leo Totten

In this episode of the Samson Strength Coach Collective, Leo Totten from Totten Training reflects on five decades in strength and conditioning. From his early days in Olympic weightlifting to building elite programs and mentoring coaches nationwide, Leo shares lessons on growth mindset, leadership, athlete development, and the importance of maintaining balance while striving for excellence.
June 17, 2026
S03|E242 A Journey Through Strength Coaching with Rick Huegli | Samson Strength Coach Collective
S03|E242 A Journey Through Strength Coaching with Rick Huegli | Samson Strength Coach Collective Leadership, Culture & CommunicationStrength Coach Podcast

S03|E242 A Journey Through Strength Coaching with Rick Huegli | Samson Strength Coach Collective

In this legacy episode of the Samson Strength Coach Collective, Rick Huegli reflects on a lifetime in strength and conditioning, the relationships that shaped his career, and the leadership principles behind Samson Equipment’s 50-year success.
June 17, 2026
S03|E239 A Legacy of Strength Coaching with Scott Warman | Samson Strength Coach Collective
S03|E239 A Legacy of Strength Coaching with Scott Warman | Samson Strength Coach Collective Facilities, Equipment & Weight RoomsStrength Coach Podcast

S03|E239 A Legacy of Strength Coaching with Scott Warman | Samson Strength Coach Collective

In this Samson Legacy Series episode, Scott Warman shares his journey through decades of strength coaching and the evolution of Samson Equipment. From early career challenges to innovations in equipment design, Scott reflects on the integrity, relationships, and leadership that helped shape Samson’s 50-year legacy.
June 17, 2026
S02|E230 Embracing Adversity with Liane Blyn | Samson Strength Coach Collective
S02|E230 Embracing Adversity with Liane Blyn | Samson Strength Coach Collective Athlete Development & PerformanceStrength Coach Podcast

S02|E230 Embracing Adversity with Liane Blyn | Samson Strength Coach Collective

In this episode of the Samson Strength Coach Collective, we sit down with Liane Blyn, Director of Sports Performance for Olympic Sports at Arizona State University. Liane discusses her path in strength and conditioning, how the field has evolved, and the unique challenges she’s faced as a female leader in a male-dominated profession. She dives into the importance of building connections, fostering accountability, and embracing adversity as a tool for both personal and athletic growth.
June 17, 2026
S02|E228 The Power of Relationship Based Coaching with Conner Freeland | Samson Strength Coach Collective
S02|E228 The Power of Relationship Based Coaching with Conner Freeland | Samson Strength Coach Collective Strength Coach PodcastTactical, Military & Public Safety

S02|E228 The Power of Relationship Based Coaching with Conner Freeland | Samson Strength Coach Collective

In this episode of the Samson Strength Coach Collective, we sit down with Conner Freeland, Vice President of Municipal Sales at O2X Human Performance. Conner opens up about how a major injury inspired his path into strength and conditioning, what he’s learned about building buy-in within tactical populations, and how authentic relationships have shaped his transition from on-the-floor coaching to leadership and development. His journey reflects the true power of relationship-based coaching and leadership.
June 17, 2026
S02|E224 Adaptive Sport Strength and Conditioning with Abbey Phillipson | Samson Strength Coach Collective
S02|E224 Adaptive Sport Strength and Conditioning with Abbey Phillipson | Samson Strength Coach Collective Athlete Development & PerformanceStrength Coach Podcast

S02|E224 Adaptive Sport Strength and Conditioning with Abbey Phillipson | Samson Strength Coach Collective

Adaptive sport is not about “inspiration”—it’s about inclusion, competition, and empowerment. In this episode, Abbey Phillipson, Head Strength and Conditioning Coach for Adaptive Sport and Head ParaPowerlifting Coach at the University of Michigan, shares her journey, breaks down misconceptions, and explains why strength training is vital for athletes with disabilities.
June 17, 2026
S02|E216 Building Relationships That Drive Results with Andrew Rafferty
S02|E216 Building Relationships That Drive Results with Andrew Rafferty Leadership, Culture & CommunicationStrength Coach Podcast

S02|E216 Building Relationships That Drive Results with Andrew Rafferty

In this episode of the Samson Strength Coach Collective, Andrew Rafferty, Strength and Conditioning Coordinator for Clinton High School, opens up about his transition from sport coaching to strength and conditioning. He shares how authentic communication, community-building, and persistence helped him create a dedicated strength coach position. From injury prevention to athlete engagement, Andrew unpacks what it takes to elevate high school sports through coaching relationships.
June 17, 2026
S02|E215 Adaptability Builds Better Coaches with Nick DaCosta | Samson Strength Coach Collective
S02|E215 Adaptability Builds Better Coaches with Nick DaCosta | Samson Strength Coach Collective Leadership, Culture & CommunicationStrength Coach Podcast

S02|E215 Adaptability Builds Better Coaches with Nick DaCosta | Samson Strength Coach Collective

In this episode, we’re joined by Nick DaCosta, Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach at Appalachian State University. Nick shares his unique path from intern to full-time coach and breaks down how building trust, staying adaptable, and continuously learning have helped him succeed. From working with field hockey and cheer teams to navigating cultural differences with international athletes, Nick offers relatable insights for coaches at all levels.
June 17, 2026
S02-E212 Teaching vs. Coaching with Charles Kenward
S02-E212 Teaching vs. Coaching with Charles Kenward Leadership, Culture & CommunicationStrength Coach Podcast

S02-E212 Teaching vs. Coaching with Charles Kenward

In this episode of the Samson Strength Coach Collective, we chat with Charles Kenward, Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach at Incarnate Word University. Charles shares his insights on running an entire strength and conditioning program by himself, the differences between teaching and coaching, and building deep relationships with athletes. From trust with head coaches to fostering leadership in athletes, this conversation sheds light on the heart of true coaching.
June 17, 2026
S02-E210 Experiences in Strength and Conditioning with Keegan Smith
S02-E210 Experiences in Strength and Conditioning with Keegan Smith Leadership, Culture & CommunicationStrength Coach Podcast

S02-E210 Experiences in Strength and Conditioning with Keegan Smith

On this episode of the Samson Strength Coach Collective, Keegan Smith, Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach at Georgia Southern, joins us to discuss his path from Alabama football to coaching Olympic sports. Keegan dives into lessons learned from championship culture, relationship-building, and how his coaching style prioritizes the athlete experience. With practical advice for young coaches and reflections on the emotional side of the job, this episode is full of takeaways for those working in strength and conditioning.
June 17, 2026
S02-E209 Relationships Make the Career with Michael Tucker
S02-E209 Relationships Make the Career with Michael Tucker Leadership, Culture & CommunicationStrength Coach Podcast

S02-E209 Relationships Make the Career with Michael Tucker

In this episode of the Samson Strength Coach Collective, we’re joined by Michael Tucker of Liberty University. From internships to long-distance challenges and baseball’s deep stats, Tucker opens up about the journey that shaped him. With a strong focus on energy management and the critical role of relationship-building in coaching, he shares practical advice and personal reflections that resonate with strength coaches at every level.
June 17, 2026
S02-E206 Asking Reflective Questions in Coaching with Sean Swetnam
S02-E206 Asking Reflective Questions in Coaching with Sean Swetnam Leadership, Culture & CommunicationStrength Coach Podcast

S02-E206 Asking Reflective Questions in Coaching with Sean Swetnam

In this episode, Sean Swetnam, Assistant Director of Football Performance at UCLA, opens up about his transition from the private sector to collegiate coaching. He dives into how coaches can support athletes during times of identity crisis, foster open communication, and build trust through genuine connection. With insights on culture, tech in training, and a creative fine system, Sean delivers a candid and insightful look into effective coaching.
June 17, 2026
S2 E204: Developing Team Culture in a High School Setting with David Neill
S2 E204: Developing Team Culture in a High School Setting with David Neill Leadership, Culture & CommunicationStrength Coach Podcast

S2 E204: Developing Team Culture in a High School Setting with David Neill

In this episode, David Neill, Director of Sports Performance at Liberty Christian School, shares how aligning with a head coach’s vision, building team culture, and developing leadership in athletes drives long-term success. He unpacks how real character is revealed under fatigue and why strong relationships are the foundation of effective coaching.
June 17, 2026
E084: Leo Totten (Totten Training Systems, LLC)
E084: Leo Totten (Totten Training Systems, LLC) Program Building & OperationsStrength Coach Podcast

E084: Leo Totten (Totten Training Systems, LLC)

In this episode, Leo Totten of Totten Training Systems, LLC joins me to share his journey through the world of weightlifting, and his thoughts on giving back to the sport that gave him so much. We cover topics such as mentorship, leadership, coaching philosophies, and what it truly means to be an "expert" or "master" of your craft. Leo provides incredible wisdom and insight in this one; enjoy! https://youtu.be/wf3McQloyrU
June 17, 2026
E087: Shannon Phillips (Assistant Strength and Conditioning)
E087: Shannon Phillips (Assistant Strength and Conditioning) Leadership, Culture & CommunicationStrength Coach Podcast

E087: Shannon Phillips (Assistant Strength and Conditioning)

Shannon Phillips, now the Assistant Director of Strength & Conditioning for Olympic Sports at Georgia Southern University, joins us to speak about her experiences in the world of strength and conditioning, and how they have shaped her into the person she is today, personally and professionally!
June 17, 2026
E095: Justin Kuehn (Tactical Strength and Conditioning Coach)
E095: Justin Kuehn (Tactical Strength and Conditioning Coach) Strength Coach PodcastTactical, Military & Public Safety

E095: Justin Kuehn (Tactical Strength and Conditioning Coach)

Justin Kuehn, Tactical Strength and Conditioning Coach at JBLM (Joint-Base Lewis McChord) joins us to do a deep-dive into the new and developing industry of Tactical Strength and Conditioning. Justin gives incredible insight into the obstacles he has had to overcome, the operation itself, the comparisons to collegiate strength and conditioning, the progress he has been able to make and what having an impact in the military actually means. This podcast was a phenomenal one, and Justin is as transparent as it comes when speaking about his journey, and what to expect in the world of Tactical S&C in regards…
June 17, 2026
Samson Strength Coach Collective: E057 - Amm Phrommavanh (Georgia State University)
Samson Strength Coach Collective: E057 – Amm Phrommavanh (Georgia State University) Leadership, Culture & CommunicationStrength Coach Podcast

Samson Strength Coach Collective: E057 – Amm Phrommavanh (Georgia State University)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8gPiaoi2cGs&list=PLxq_OWThB2iSscx30C1qEisoHmOQRJ5Fp&index=54 Amm Phrommavanh brings his extensive exposure to high-level minds in the strength and conditioning industry to this weeks podcast. In this episode, Amm takes us through the specific relationship dynamics that he has developed with his sport coaches, how to create athlete buy-in for a strength coach who hasn't played the sport, in addition to the specific process he and his colleagues work through when trying to identifying the demands of the sport in order to create a preparation plan. Amm sheds light on what it truly means to "work backwards from the sport" in order to recreate the…
June 17, 2026
E058 – Zach Fears (Southeastern Oklahoma State University)
E058 – Zach Fears (Southeastern Oklahoma State University) Strength Coach PodcastAthlete Development & Performance

E058 – Zach Fears (Southeastern Oklahoma State University)

Episode Summary This episode features Zach Fears and explores his work in collegiate sports performance at Southeastern Oklahoma State University. The conversation points to the responsibilities that come with leading athlete development across a department, from training design and daily implementation to long-term planning and facility use. It also gives listeners a useful look at how performance leadership requires both technical coaching and broader organizational thinking. Coaches working in college settings will find value in the discussion around infrastructure, athlete support, and building a process that can serve a full roster of teams well. Listen to More Episodes Browse the…
June 17, 2026
Samson Strength Coach Collective: Episode 045 - Tim McClellan (Arizona Arsenal Soccer Club)
Samson Strength Coach Collective: Episode 045 – Tim McClellan (Arizona Arsenal Soccer Club) Strength Coach PodcastLeadership, Culture & Communication

Samson Strength Coach Collective: Episode 045 – Tim McClellan (Arizona Arsenal Soccer Club)

https://youtu.be/4YIsw4kXWi4 Tim McClellan has paved the way and laid a great foundation for our industry. Having coached athletes at every level Coach McClellan has seen it all. His leadership and love for high performance has allowed him to continue perfecting his craft to this day. He sits down with Justin Schwind and Darius Ducre to cover his journey.
June 17, 2026
Samson Strength Coach Collective Episode 020 | Darien Pyka
Samson Strength Coach Collective Episode 020 | Darien Pyka Athlete Development & PerformanceStrength Coach Podcast

Samson Strength Coach Collective Episode 020 | Darien Pyka

We finish up the month of August and our highlight of female leaders within the strength & conditioning industry with Darien Pyka! Coach Pyka is an Assistant Strength & Conditioning Coach at the University of Southern California and a certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist through the National Strength & Conditioning Association. She shares why she has such a passion for strength & conditioning and how being a walk-on for Loyola Marymount Women's Soccer drove that passion!   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kRpJoHmS7YM
June 17, 2026