Brute Strength Podcast

Epizodai

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  FROM INJURED TO 2ND FITTEST ON EARTH | Emma Lawon and Nicole Torres On The Road Back From Injury 18.09.2026 48min

  A bulging disc at L5 took Emma Lawson off the 2025 CrossFit Open floor and forced her to rebuild from the ground up.In this episode of the Brute Training Podcast, Emma sits down with Nicole Torres to walk through the reality of her comeback and what it looked like, felt like, and took to get to where she is now. They cover what the injury felt like in training, the decision to sit the season out, how they programmed around pain instead of through it, and what it took to get Emma back on the competition floor for the World Fitness Project.We get into:-The moment the back went and why it was ignored at first-What a real rehab plan looks like for a Games-level athlete-How to train hard without blowing up the same tissue again-The mental side of watching a season slip while everyone else keeps competing-The lessons Emma and Nicole would give any athlete currently stuck in the “I should be able to push through this” phaseIf you’ve ever been injured, coached someone through one, or you’re trying to come back without rushing the process, this one is for you.Brute Redmond Code https://living.redmond.com/discount/B...Which Program Is Best For You: https://www.brutestrengthtraining.com...
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  Identifying & Attacking Weaknesses | The Brute Brief 14.09.2026 30min

  You’re probably not as “bad” at that movement as you think; you’re just avoiding the real weakness or training the wrong things. Comment the one thing you hope never shows up in a workout and how you plan to attack it going forward. The fastest way to improve isn’t chasing what you’re already good at, but getting honest about the limiter that keeps showing up on your scorecard.If your engine is huge but your strength lags, stop pretending it doesn’t matter.If you’re strong but die after 12 minutes, that’s not a personality trait. That’s data.The goal isn’t to become someone else. It’s to raise your floor without losing your best weapons.Training partners help too - not because you need to beat them every day, but because they reveal what’s possible.Maybe that’s the whole game.Brute Redmond Code https://living.redmond.com/discount/B...Which Program Is Best For You: https://www.brutestrengthtraining.com...
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  Pat Vellner: Closing The Chapter | BRUTE TRAINING PODCAST 10.09.2026 56min

  In this episode, Pat Vellner shares insights on his career, early retirement, injury recovery, and future plans, offering valuable lessons on resilience, mindset, and life after sports.Expect to discover:How to navigate the mental hurdles of injury and retirement without losing your identity as an athlete.The surprising peace that can come from circumstances beyond your control.Strategies to stay motivated and maintain a positive mindset during challenging times.Insights into the psychology of performance and how to cope with setbacks in any competitive field.This episode is not just for athletes; it’s for anyone facing unexpected life changes or grappling with their own limits. Vellner's story illustrates the universal struggle of letting go and finding strength in vulnerability.
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  20 YEARS OF COACHING WISDOM With Kyle Ruth | Brute Training Podcast 03.09.2026 1val 4min

  Kyle Ruth joins the Brute Training Podcast to talk about the difference between GPP and performance training, how CrossFit programming has evolved, and why doing more work isn’t always the answer.At the highest levels of the sport, Kyle has seen a shift away from simply piling on volume and toward more intentional use of volume, intensity, and density. Athletes are becoming more specific about their weaknesses, their goals, and how their training is organized across the week.We also get into why understanding the principles behind a training method is more valuable than simply copying what you see from another coach, why CrossFit is still far from having a true set of best practices, and what coaches can do to better prepare athletes for an unpredictable and constantly evolving sport.In this episode:• GPP vs. performance training• Why training hard every day isn’t the same as training for performance• How CrossFit programming has changed over the last decade• Volume, intensity, and density as training levers• Demands analysis and working backward from the goal• Why weaknesses should drive your training priorities• The importance of understanding the “why” behind your programming• The challenges of coaching in an evolving sport• Kyle’s new coaching community for remote coachesIf you’re an athlete, coach, or simply someone who wants to understand CrossFit training at a deeper level, this conversation is for you.Watch the full episode, subscribe to the Brute Training Podcast, and let us know in the comments: are you training for performance, or are you just training hard?
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  THE POWER OF THE DELOAD WEEK | The Brute Brief 31.08.2026 34min

  Rest is not laziness.It’s the thing that lets you train hard again next week.Save this for the next time you feel guilty or anxious about taking a deload.The "no-days-off" mindset sounds tough until it turns into burnout, bad sessions, and little injuries you keep ignoring.A smart athlete knows this:You recover when you’re out of the gym.Deloads keep your body fresh and your mind sharp.Longevity beats one more “hard” day every time.If your coach told you to back off, that’s not a loss.That’s part of the plan.What do you struggle with more - training hard or actually resting?
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  APPRECIATE WHAT'S IMPORTANT With Justin Cotler | Brute Training Podcast 27.08.2026 1val 3min

  From CrossFit Games prep to life in the desert, Justin Cotler gets real about what it takes to stay elite in sport, business, and family.We talked about the pressure of coaching at the highest level, the identity shift that comes with big life changes, and the lessons that come from being forced to slow down and reassess.The biggest takeaway: Success isn’t just about performance, but about staying present, adapting, and protecting what matters most.Huge respect to Justin for his honesty and perspective.#CrossFit #FitnessPodcast #Coaching #Mindset #ElitePerformance #BruteStrength #PodcastClip #AthleteMindset #LasVegas #ResilienceBrute Redmond Code https://living.redmond.com/discount/BRUTE?redirect=%2Fcollections%2Fall-eligable-for-affiliate-discount
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  Josh Godinez | The Brute Coaches Podcast 20.08.2026 1val 26min

  You can be strong and still be underpowered.This gap shows up fast when the current strength numbers don’t match the goal.Drop a comment if you’ve ever had an athlete who looked strong but moved like they were stuck in mud.If you only look at one bucket of absolute strength, you’ll miss the real limiter and possibly miss out on huge gains. What’s harder in your experience: building strength or turning it into speed?Brute Redmond Code https://living.redmond.com/discount/BRUTE?redirect=%2Fcollections%2Fall-eligable-for-affiliate-discount____________________________________________________________________________Like and subscribe to our podcast:Brute Strength Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/brute-strength-podcast/id1568567695Follow us on Social MediaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/brute.strengthFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/brUTE-Strength-1527828040783218/Twitter: https://twitter.com/brutestrength_#CrossFitCoach #StrengthAndConditioning #BruteStrength #AthleteDevelopment #PowerDevelopment
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  JANIE CHEVERIE ROOKIE YEAR | Brute Training Podcast 13.08.2026 43min

  We caught up with our CrossFit Games rookie Janie Cheverie to chat about what making the Games meant to her and how she is approaching the lead-up to her first CrossFit Games.Brute Redmond Code https://living.redmond.com/discount/B...____________________________________________________________________________Like and Subscribe to our podcast:Brute Strength Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Follow us on Social MediaInstagram:   / brute.strength  Facebook:   / brute-strength-1527828040783218  Twitter:   / brutestrength_  
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  THE HIDDEN TRUTHS OF CROSSFIT With Adrian Conway | Brute Training Podcast 06.08.2026 56min

  Tune in as Adrian Conway shares how the sport's evolution is shaping what’s possible for us as athletes. From the real challenges of aging in high-intensity training to the behind-the-scenes truths of the supplement industry, he pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to stay competitive and healthy. Plus, his insights on the future of CrossFit’s education and sport will make you rethink what excellence looks like.What’s one limitation you’re working to overcome in your training? Drop your thoughts below 👇 and tag a friend who needs this perspective.Brute Redmond Code https://living.redmond.com/discount/BRUTE?redirect=%2Fcollections%2Fall-eligable-for-affiliate-discount____________________________________________________________________________Like and Subscribe to our podcast:Brute Strength Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/brute-strength-podcast/id1568567695Follow us on Social MediaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/brute.strengthFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/brUTE-Strength-1527828040783218/Twitter: https://twitter.com/brutestrength_
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  HOW WE WON THE CROSSFIT GAMES w Matt Torres | The Brute Training Podcast 04.08.2026 42min

  Join us with Coach Matt Torres to recap the 2026 CrossFit Games and hear a little behind-the-scenes of how we won the CrossFit Games. Brute Redmond Code https://living.redmond.com/discount/B...Which Program Is Best For You: https://www.brutestrengthtraining.com...____________________________________________________________________________Like and Subscribe to our podcast:Brute Strength Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Follow us on Social MediaInstagram:   / brute.strength  Facebook:   / brute-strength-1527828040783218  Twitter:   / brutestrength_  
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  The Psychology of “the Redline” | THE BRUTE BRIEF 04.08.2026 37min

  Uncover the hidden mental strategies that turn good CrossFit athletes into elite performers willing to push past pain barriers and redefine their limits.Most athletes are content staying just under their red line: the point where effort feels unbearable. But the true game-changer is learning to live there. In this episode, Coach Matt and George Rhigas dive into the psychology of training at that threshold, revealing how building tolerance to discomfort can turn survival into victory.You'll discover:The secret to training your body and mind to stay in the pain zone without burning outPractical tactics for incorporating VO2 max intervals, aiming to beat your limitations more effectivelyHow to interpret your body's subjective signals during intense workouts and communicate them like a pro to your coachFour targeted workout frameworks for testing and expanding your red line safely and strategicallyThe importance of self-awareness and how exploring different pace strategies unlocks hidden efficiency in complex workoutsHow shared suffering in community boosts mental toughness and accelerates progressPlus, insights from Amy Kringle’s journey to upper-body endurance dominance on legless rope climbs, and hard-won lessons on the critical role of mindset: renegotiating your brain’s ‘governor’ and turning failure into fuel.Whether you’re prepping for competition, chasing personal records, or simply refusing to leave value on the floor, this episode will reshape how you approach discomfort and growth.Perfect for CrossFitters hungry to unlock their full potential, coaches striving to implement adaptive programming, and anyone committed to mental toughness in the face of pain.Remember: The most impressive athletes aren’t those who avoid pain; they’re those who learn to embrace and master it. Will you dare to live at your red line?Which Program Is Best For You: https://www.brutestrengthtraining.com...____________________________________________________________________________Like and Subscribe to our podcast:Brute Strength Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Follow us on Social MediaInstagram:   / brute.strength  Facebook:   / brute-strength-1527828040783218  Twitter:   / brutestrength_  
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  How To Love The Sport Of CrossFit Without Losing Yourself In It | THE BRUTE BRIEF 04.08.2026 57min

  Most CrossFit athletes lose sight of why they fell in love with the sport, risking burnout and losing themselves in pursuit of elite performance. But what if there’s a smarter, healthier way to progress without sacrificing your identity, joy, or well-being? In this episode, Coach Matt and @rhigas uncover the secrets to loving CrossFit while maintaining balance, resilience, and a sense of self beyond the gym.You’ll discover the critical difference between training gears-strength versus battery-and how to program them effectively to optimize gains without burnout. Learn why focusing on consistent progression in lifts and conditioning helps build confidence, not just numbers, and how understanding your body’s signals can prevent injury and frustration. George and Matt break down the subtle nuances of programming, including the importance of repeatability, the role of rest, and how to tailor intensity with RPE or percentages so you can train smart rather than just harder.This episode dives deep into the mindset shifts needed for sustainable growth; how to tame perfectionism, avoid obsession, and create boundaries that preserve your mental health. Coach Matt shares practical tips on limiting social media, diversifying your identity outside of CrossFit, and setting clear boundaries that keep training joyful, not burdensome. They explore the emotional complexities of high-level competition, including how to handle setbacks and recover confidence after injury.Why does this matter? Because chasing greatness often comes at the cost of your overall happiness and relationships. If you're serious about longevity in CrossFit, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned competitor, this conversation offers indispensable insights on balancing passion with perspective. Learn how to train with purpose, protect your mental state, and enjoy the sport you love without losing yourself in it.Join us for an honest, emotionally rich discussion that challenges the hustle culture and highlights the importance of holistic growth. Perfect for coaches, athletes, and anyone seeking a sustainable, fulfilling relationship with fitness. Tune in and learn how to love CrossFit the right way: by loving yourself first.Witch Program Is Best For You: https://www.brutestrengthtraining.com...____________________________________________________________________________Like and Subscribe to our podcast:Brute Strength Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Follow us on Social MediaInstagram:   / brute.strength  Facebook:   / brute-strength-1527828040783218  Twitter:   / brutestrength_  
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  JASON KHALIPA | Brute Training Podcast 16.07.2026 47min

  Jason Khalipa won the CrossFit Games, built successful businesses, and helped shape CrossFit from the beginning.Today, his mission looks different.In this episode of the Brute Training Podcast, Jason shares why he shifted from chasing performance to training to protect, provide for, and lead his family and community.We also dive into:• The future of CrossFit and how the sport has changed• Why community matters more than ever• Building Train Hard Men's Clubs across the world• Law enforcement, fitness, and performing under pressure• Business lessons from nearly two decades of entrepreneurship• Fatherhood, priorities, and training for longevityIf you're a CrossFitter, coach, affiliate owner, or someone looking to build a life around purpose, this conversation is one you won't want to miss.Subscribe for more conversations with the biggest names in CrossFit, coaching, and performance.Comment below: What are you training for today?
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  The Frog Grips Origin Story With Sean Coote | Brute Training Podcast 03.07.2026 41min

  Most athletes and fitness fanatics underestimate how innovative grip technology can unlock their true potential. Sean Coote, founder of Frog Grips, reveals the game-changing innovation that transformed CrossFit performance and how it’s just getting started.In this episode, Sean shares the unlikely origins of Frog Grips: a journey sparked by boredom during COVID, and a relentless quest for the perfect grip that would protect hands and boost strength. He uncovers the pivotal moment when a custom, sticky, chalkless grip prototype felt like ‘changing the game,’ and quickly proved to be a sport-shifting breakthrough, enabling unbroken sets that were previously impossible. Discover how Frog Grips went from testing samples in a gym to dominating athlete hands at the CrossFit Games, driving a seismic shift in how athletes train and compete.We dive into the core insights that made Frog Grips a must-have, exploring how proprietary materials, athlete-driven feedback, and relentless innovation challenged the status quo. Sean breaks down the complexities of product iteration, strategic athlete sponsorship, and the balancing act of staying true to a niche while expanding into complementary accessories like knee sleeves and belts. He shares behind-the-scenes stories of international shipping chaos, epic event experiences, and how a small Australian brand is scaling globally—overcoming logistical hurdles and shaping industry standards along the way.Why does this matter? Because grip technology isn’t just about protecting your hands; it’s about unlocking new levels of strength, confidence, and performance for every athlete, from beginners to elites. Ignoring these advancements means missing out on vital gains and potential record-breaking moments. For coaches, entrepreneurs, or anyone interested in how innovation disrupts even the most traditional sports, this episode offers a rare view into the future of fitness gear.Whether you’re a CrossFit athlete, coach, or business builder, this episode is your blueprint for turning a simple idea into a global game-changer. Learn from Sean’s relentless pursuit of excellence and how a one-of-a-kind grip redefined what’s possible in the sport. This is essential listening if you want to stay ahead of the curve and see what’s coming next in athletic performance technology.Sean Coote is the founder of Frog Grips, a pioneering brand revolutionizing grip equipment used by top athletes and gyms worldwide. With a background blending gym ownership, athlete sponsorship, and cutthroat industry competition, he’s built a powerhouse in fitness innovation that’s just getting started.
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  Inside Luka Đukić's Big Shift: Less Gym Time, More Quality, Better Results | Brute Training Podcast 30.06.2026 42min

  Most athletes chase stronger lifts and faster times, but what if the secret to peak performance is actually less? Luka Đukić reveals how shifting his focus from volume to quality transformed his fitness, enabling him to hit new PRs while maintaining his speed and endurance. If you're tired of endless training hours that sacrifice your results, this episode is your wake-up call to optimize your approach.Luka shares the nuanced differences he's experienced since switching to Fraser Mackenzie's program: more targeted sessions, smarter use of time, and an emphasis on movement quality and energy system training like VO2 max intervals. You'll discover how these tactics break the cycle of burnout and help athletes stay competitive year-round, even when injuries or life commitments threaten to derail progress.We break down the importance of clear goal-setting, the power of community-driven accountability, and how competition frequency enhances consistency and resilience. Luka also highlights practical strategies for balancing strength gains with cardio—an essential combination for functional fitness athletes aiming for longevity and performance in multiple domains.Why does this matter? Because in today’s sports landscape, maintaining high-level performance across a whole season requires more than just grinding harder; it demands smarter programming and strategic recovery. Luka’s insights are a game-changer for athletes who want to push their limits without burnout.Whether you're a competitor, coach, or fitness enthusiast craving a fresh perspective, this episode offers actionable advice backed by Luka’s incredible journey from Serbia to the global stage. Get ready to rethink your training, embrace quality over quantity, and unlock your full potential.Luka Đukić is a top-tier CrossFit athlete from Serbia, known for his relentless dedication and recent performances at the World Fitness Project. His journey reflects resilience, strategic growth, and the pursuit of sustainable excellence in a sport where every second - and smart decision - counts.Perfect for athletes aiming for consistent progress, coaches seeking effective programming insights, or anyone frustrated with ineffective volume, this episode delivers the blueprint for smarter, healthier, and more enjoyable training.
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  European Champion Aniol Ekai Breaks Down His 2026 Games Strategy | Brute Training Podcast 18.06.2026 39min

  After missing the CrossFit Games in 2025, Aniol Ekai made a decision that changed his performance ever since:He stopped focusing on outcomes and started focusing on execution.In this episode of the Brute Training Podcast, Aniol breaks down the lessons learned from last season, the mindset shifts that helped him dominate the European Semifinal, and why he believes maturity has become one of his greatest competitive advantages.We also dive into his coaching relationship with Fraser, how he approaches training volume and intensity, how he competes under pressure in Spain, and why he's more confident than ever heading into the 2026 CrossFit Games.If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who's serious about getting better.
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  Build Bullet Proof Hips And Shoulders | THE BRUTE BRIEF 06.06.2026 41min

  An insight into the thoughts of one of the best coaches in the game. THE BRUTE BRIEF will bring you the why behind Matt Torres's methodologies and teachings. Today, we explore how to Build Bullet Proof Shoulders & Hips and other insights Matt has on training, competing, and his athletes.
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  Brute Endurance Coach: Mark Cullen | Brute Training Podcast 04.06.2026 55min

  Most CrossFit athletes think endurance improvement comes from simply doing more cardio, more zone 2, and more hard intervals. According to Brute Endurance Coach Mark Cullen, that's exactly where many athletes go wrong.In this episode of the Brute Training Podcast, Mark joins George Rhigas to break down the endurance concepts that actually move the needle for CrossFit athletes. From Zone 2 myths and threshold training to VO2 max development and pacing strategies, this conversation is packed with practical takeaways you can apply immediately.Whether you're training for the Open, Semifinals, HYROX, a running race, or simply trying to stop fading late in workouts, this episode will help you train smarter.Let us know in the comments:What's the biggest challenge in your endurance training right now?Subscribe for more coaching insights, athlete interviews, and performance education from the Brute coaching team.
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  The Future of CrossFit, HYROX, and Fitness Sports With Snorri Barron | Brute Training Podcast 15.05.2026 52min

  This week on the Brute Training Podcast, we sit down with Snorri Baron, founder of Bakland Management and one of the leading athlete managers in CrossFit and HYROX.Snorri has worked with athletes like Sara Sigmundsdottir, BKG, Emma Lawson, Lucy McGonigle, Ricky Garard, and many more while helping shape sponsorships, athlete brands, and careers behind the scenes.In this episode, we talk about:• How sponsorship deals work in CrossFit• Why HYROX is growing so quickly• What brands are looking for from athletes• The reality of trying to make a living in fitness sports• The future of CrossFit competitions• Advice for young athletes chasing the GamesIf you’re a CrossFitter, coach, competitor, or fan of the sport, this one gives a real look into the business side that most people never hear about.Drop a comment with your biggest takeaway and let us know who you want to see on the podcast next.
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  From Setbacks to Semifinals: The Mindset of a Top CrossFit Athlete With Ella Wilkinson | Brute Training Podcast 30.04.2026 46min

  Ella is coming off her best season yet, with a top-15 finish in the Open and her strongest Quarterfinals performance ever.In this episode, George and Ella dive deeper into what her journey has looked like thus far, the challenges she's faced, and what has made the biggest difference for her when it comes to becoming elite in the sport. This episode will help you get to know our Brute athlete, Ella Wilkinson, better and give you things she's learned along her journey of becoming elite. Make sure to subscribe for more episodes with elite athletes, coaches, and behind-the-scenes conversations from the sport.