Launch & Gifting Coach Mark's Public Policy Playbook: Aquatics and Recreation 4 Yinzers
Coach Mark Rauterkus announces the launch of the new book's arrival: "Public Policy Playbook for Pittsburgh Aquatics & Recreation – Yinzer Edition."
Co-author is Ron Usher.
Heavy Or Not, The OG Swim Guide, episode #115 hits current events and then a view into the first book of 2026, Mental Skills for Young Athletes and how that can fit into your sports programs and teams. See the reveal on how to get a free PDF, and let's discuss key strategies to improve city recreation, arts, and youth mental health.
You'll also hear Mayor Corey O'Connor weigh in on new rec‑center partnerships and community initiatives, just before the book gets handed to him.
Mayor is in full agreement. Time will tell.
Overview of the Playbook: 10 pillars, strategic principles, meta plays, and actionable "plays." How to download the free PDF via CREWLAB (crewlab.io) and purchase the printed copy at SWIMISCA.com. Mayor Corey O'Connor's plans for expanding rec‑center hours, school‑facility partnerships, and arts programming. The three‑tier mental‑resilience action plan for youth athletes, based on Dr. John Hoog's research. Next steps: community involvement, feedback opportunities, and upcoming expansions of city sports camps and cultural events.
"The ball's in your court—action is the kicker that will transform our rec centers into life‑saving community hubs."
12 Sept 2026
Navigating Federal and Provincial Sport Funding: Barry Healy's Fight for Local Recreation in BC, Canada - sorta like PPS needs
Barry is pushing for a group to form to consider local recreational needs in Salmon Arm, BC, Canada and has called for a meeting on October 1 at the local university.
In a similar front, but different setting, Mark Rauterkus, is pushing the reformation of the Athletic Reform Task Force in Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
Follow along as these stories unfold. None of us know what to expect and what happens next.
In episode #114 of Heavy Or Not, The OG Swim Guide, we launch a new Substack too, 1Shuswap.Substack.com and give a boost to Barry Healey's efforts in BC, Canada. We discuss building an athletic reform task force, navigating government roadblocks, and a clever way to fund a new public park. We also take a quick look at the VASA trainer's retirement and its impact on swim training.
Learn:
How to design and launch a city‑wide athletic reform task force from scratch.
Strategies for getting provincial and federal sport funding when councils push back.
The "case of beer" pitch that secured a $13‑per‑household‑per‑month park funding plan.
Engaging schools and universities in community sports development.
Updates on the VASA trainer's retirement and alternatives for swim‑ERG training.
9 Sept 2026
ISCA Hall of Fame Tribute video for IU's Ray Looze
ISCA Coaches Hall of Fame honored Ray Looze, Indiana University, in the class of 2026. Episode #113 show the tribute video.
Who has been a guest on Heavy Or Not - The O.G. Swim Guide
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
Steve Friederang
Yash Daryanani
Nicole Fairfield
Ron Usher
Partha Pratim Majumdar
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
3 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
1 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 51 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
89
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
32
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