Whose Coach Is It Anyway?

About Whose Coach Is It Anyway?

Whose Coach Is It Anyway? is a show about performance training and coaching philosophy. Hosted by Dan Grimaudo - with occasional co-hosts and guests. The show blends solo deep dives with candid conversations between coaches who don’t always see things the same way. Programming. Philosophy. Adaptation. What works. What doesn’t. And why. No scripts. No echo chamber. Just real conversations about getting better as athletes, and as coaches.

Publisher

Dan Grimaudo

Category

education · health & fitness

Language

en

Explicit

Yes

First episode

3 Nov 2025

Latest episode

31 Aug 2026

Latest episodes

17 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   31 Aug 2026

   Ep17. Brijesh Patel on Building Systems in Performance Environments

   In this episode, Brijesh Patel shares his journey of developing a comprehensive training system rooted in movement quality, injury prevention, and athlete development. Coach B discusses how to organize training, the importance of feeling movement, and integrating various disciplines for optimal performance. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction and guest background 01:09 Brijesh's coaching journey and influences 03:06 Core principles of Patel's training philosophy 04:35 Understanding movement and injury prevention 07:36 Organizing and filtering training information 09:22 The importance of time and experience in system development 12:20 The movement lens and movement variability 13:55 Prioritizing movement quality in training 20:19 Connecting movement patterns to sport performance 22:12 Reducing injury risk through movement training 29:28 Inputs and outputs in training design 33:23 The role of warm-up in training and performance 41:28 Effective warm-up sequencing and strategies 47:08 The power of feeling and kinesthetic awareness 48:15 Resources and how to connect with Brijesh Patel

2. 

   24 Aug 2026

   Ep16: Sport Specificity

   In this episode, Dan explores the nuances of sports-specific training, emphasizing the importance of matching training shapes and qualities to sport demands while maintaining a focus on general human movement patterns. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction to Sports-Specific Training 02:09 Sports That Require Specific Matching in Training 02:35 Qualities and Shapes in Sport and Training 03:12 The Role of Age and Athlete Level in Specificity 04:00 Shapes and Stimulus: Separating Them in Training 05:21 The Value of General Human Movement Patterns 06:12 Overlaying Sport Qualities onto Foundational Shapes 07:07 Training Sport-Specific Shapes Isometrically 08:10 Using Isometrics to Match Sport Shapes 09:24 The Middle Ground: Combining General and Specific Training 10:02 Progressing from General to Sport-Specific Shapes 11:18 Training Shapes Based on Sport Positions 12:27 Training for Durability and Injury Prevention 14:05 Foot Pressure and Movement Quality 15:10 Training High Velocity Shapes at Low Velocity 16:51 The Best Approach to Sport Specificity 17:49 Positioning and Periodization in Training 19:02 Injury Prevention Through Durability Training 20:07 The Myth of High Velocity Training for Low Velocity Shapes 21:14 Final Thoughts and Practical Takeaways

3. 

   3 Aug 2026

   Ep15: Josh Bray on Athleticism and Archetyping

   In this episode, Dan sits down with Josh Bray. Josh shares his unique approach to training, archetyping athletes, and integrating gamification and psychological insights into coaching. Discover how his diverse background influences his methods and how to apply these principles to elevate athletic performance. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:19 Josh Bray's Background and Transition to Endurance Sports 01:25 Influence of Diverse Sports Background on Training 02:00 Journey from Rugby to Marathon and Triathlon 03:22 Achieving Sub-Three Marathon and Transition to Triathlon 04:38 Volume and Training Shift in Multi-Discipline Sports 05:57 Maintaining Strength During Endurance Training 07:06 Insights on CrossFit and Injury Prevention 09:08 Principles of Program Design and Resource Management 14:25 Athlete Archetyping and Program Organization 17:55 Assessing Athletes and Using Data for Support 22:50 Using Force Plates as Readiness Tools 27:58 Interpreting Testing Data and Variability 33:09 Simplifying Data for Effective Programming 34:42 Gamification Strategies in Training Sessions 43:51 Creating Engagement and Fun in Training 44:31 Psychological Aspects of Athlete Training 50:08 Dosing and Reinforcing Weaknesses 51:27 Handling Athletes Who Love Their Weaknesses 53:22 Personal Training and Injury Management 55:11 Content Creation and Building Online Voice 58:22 Matching Online and In-Person Coaching Voice 01:00:28 Effective Communication and Confidence Online 01:02:36 Using Scripts and Spontaneous Communication 01:03:05 Upcoming Projects and Social Media Presence 01:04:05 Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts

4. 

   27 Jul 2026

   Ep14: Adjustment Dials

   In this episode, Dan explores six key dials - load, range of motion, stability, volume, density, and speed - that athletes and fitness enthusiasts can adjust to maintain effective training sessions even when life throws curveballs. Learn how to modify your workouts on the fly to keep progressing without overtraining or risking injury. KEY TOPICS • Six key dials for workout adjustment: load, range of motion, stability, volume, density, speed • How to modify training variables on the fly • Importance of movement quality and consistency in progress • Strategies for training in different environments and conditions • Understanding the physiological basis of exercise modifications CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction: Why Workout Dials Matter 01:09 The Concept of Modifying Workouts When Life Gets in the Way 03:33 The First Dial: Adjusting Load to Maintain Quality 07:26 Reducing Range of Motion to Preserve Movement Quality 11:05 Adding Stability to Exercises for Better Control 15:12 Volume and Rest: Managing Training Load 20:11 Density and Rest Intervals for Optimal Recovery 26:03 Combining Dials for Effective Workout Adjustments 31:22 Practical Tips for Applying Dials in Any Environment 34:20 Progress Beyond Load: Measuring Success with Dials 35:10 Conclusion: Embracing Flexibility in Training

5. 

   13 Jul 2026

   Ep13: New Show Direction and My Shoulder RTP

   In this episode, Dan discusses the new direction for the show, and shares his personal journey of recovering from a shoulder injury from playing tennis. He discusses the psychological aspects of injury, the importance of gradual load management, and practical steps for a safe return to sport, offering valuable insights for athletes and coaches alike. KEY TOPICS Psychology of injury: catastrophizers vs. confronters Kelly Starr's spectrum: incomplete mechanics, incident, injury Importance of early movement and blood flow Soft tissue desensitization techniques Gradual load increase: isometrics, eccentrics, velocity Balancing training modifications with activity Psychological mindset in rehab and return to sport TIMESTAMPS 00:00Introduction and episode overview 01:09Dan's shoulder injury and return to podcast 07:23Psychology of injury: catastrophizers vs. confronters 13:01Kelly Starr's spectrum of injury 17:49Assessment and soft tissue management 22:47Progression from range of motion to load 34:17Adding velocity and sport-specific movements 48:59Key principles for return to sport 55:33Balancing injury management with training continuity 01:08:47Conclusion and broader lessons

6. 

   18 May 2026

   Ep12: Does More Knowledge Equal Better Coaching?

   SUMMARY In this episode, Mark and Dan explore the balance between education and experience in coaching, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning, practical application, and effective communication to enhance coaching effectiveness across various contexts. CHAPTERS 00:00 The Role of Knowledge in Coaching 06:06 Understanding Context in Coaching 11:45 Navigating Complex Client Needs 15:34 Passion and Continuous Learning in Coaching 31:51 The Value of Mentorship in Sports Science 40:52 Navigating Writer's Block in Coaching 45:39 Safe to Fail Experiments in Training 57:50 The Dunning-Kruger Effect and Continuous Learning

7. 

   5 May 2026

   Ep11: Managing Conflicting Interests

   SUMMARY In this episode, Dan Grimaudo and Mark Tutton explore the complexities of conflicting interests in training programs, especially for hybrid athletes and adult learners. They discuss goal setting, program design, stressor consolidation, and the realities of training multiple goals simultaneously. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to Competing Interests in Training 00:56 Understanding Hybrid Athletes and Programming Challenges 07:10 The Adult Athlete Experience and Performance Goals 12:43 Goal Setting and Program Design for Competing Interests 18:53 Maintaining Motivation and Flexibility in Training 22:35 The Importance of Main Lifts and Accessory Variations 25:08 Tracking Progress in Training 27:25 The Role of Subjective Feedback in Performance 31:02 Consolidating Stressors in Training 35:09 Programming for Competing Interests 39:18 The Hybrid Athlete Phenomenon 43:54 Understanding Interference Effects in Training 50:45 The Appeal of Low-Skill Fitness Competitions

8. 

   2 Mar 2026

   Ep10: Periodization for Athletes - Whose Coach is it Anyway?

   In this episode, the hosts discuss various aspects of strength training, speed training, and the importance of periodization in athletic performance. They explore how different sports require tailored training strategies, particularly focusing on tennis. The conversation delves into the nuances of training for different surfaces, the role of isometric training versus traditional strength training, and the significance of understanding an athlete's calendar and goals. The episode concludes with actionable takeaways for athletes and coaches regarding effective training volumes and recovery strategies. TAKEAWAYS The points of the show don't matter, emphasizing a relaxed approach to training. Starting training doesn't need to be tied to a specific date. Untrained individuals can improve speed through strength training alone. Disagreements in discussions can enhance entertainment and understanding. Periodization is crucial for athletes to optimize performance. Different sports require unique training strategies and adaptations. Isometric training can be effective but should not replace traditional strength training. Understanding the athlete's calendar is essential for effective programming. Finding the minimum effective volume is key for athletes. Recovery strategies are as important as training intensity. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction and Recap of Previous Episode 01:34 Strength Training and Speed Development 04:04 Understanding Periodization for Athletes 08:14 The Role of Strength in Athletic Performance 12:45 Adapting Training Based on Competition 17:10 Exploring Tennis Season and Athlete Periodization 25:37 Tournament Structure and Training Peaks 26:28 Collaborative Periodization Discussion 27:28 Importance of Major Tournaments 27:47 Training Volume and Intensity Management 29:57 Tapering Strategies for Competitions 31:16 Hypertrophy and Volume Accumulation 31:52 Surface-Specific Training Considerations 34:11 Nuances of Training for Different Surfaces 36:14 Isometrics vs. Strength Training Debate 38:28 Injury Prevention and Training Focus 40:28 Dynamic vs. Overuse Injuries in Tennis 43:12 Evolution of Strength and Conditioning in Tennis 44:39 Hypertrophy and Isometric Training Insights 48:45 Future Topics and Periodization in Sports

9. 

   20 Feb 2026

   Ep9: Periodization and Neuromuscular Adaptations - Whose Coach is it Anyway?

   In this episode, the hosts dive into the complexities of periodization in training, discussing its importance, flexibility, and the balance between structure and fluidity. They explore how different athletes require different approaches to periodization, the significance of monitoring and testing, and the role of velocity-based training. The conversation also touches on the nervous system's adaptations to training and how to measure success in strength coaching, ultimately emphasizing that effective training is about managing fatigue and performance rather than just tracking progress in the weight room. TAKEAWAYS Periodization is about planned priority management over time. Flexibility in training plans is crucial for athlete performance. Fluidity in periodization can be more beneficial than strict structure. Testing and monitoring are essential for understanding athlete progress. Strength training should complement sport-specific training for optimal performance. Auto-regulation is important at all levels of programming. Measuring fatigue is key to managing athlete performance. Nervous system adaptations play a significant role in training outcomes. Effective coaching requires a balance of structure and adaptability. The best coaches know how to adjust plans based on athlete needs. CHAPTERS 00:00Introduction to Periodization 00:26Understanding Periodization and Its Importance 03:40Different Approaches to Periodization 06:33Fluidity in Periodization 06:35The Role of Coaches in Periodization 09:09Balancing Structure and Flexibility 12:30The Importance of Auto-Regulation 15:31Measuring Performance and Its Challenges 24:22The Role of Strength and Conditioning in Sports Performance 25:52Measuring Athletic Competency and Performance Metrics 27:31The Importance of Communication in Strength Coaching 28:32Managing Fatigue and Performance in Training 30:04Utilizing Velocity-Based Training for Athlete Monitoring 34:17Understanding the Relationship Between Strength and Speed 42:03Nervous System Adaptations and Training Methods 50:10Concluding Thoughts on Periodization and Performance

10. 

    29 Jan 2026

    Ep8: The Volume Dial - Whose Coach is it Anyway?

    Summary In this episode, the Zach, Mark, and Dan dive into the concept of training volume, discussing its significance in strength training and hypertrophy. They explore the nuances of warm-up strategies, the importance of monitoring client progress, and how to effectively manipulate volume to achieve desired outcomes. The conversation emphasizes the need for individualized programming based on the athlete's goals and the time constraints of training sessions. The hosts also reflect on their own experiences and insights gained from working with various clients, ultimately highlighting the balance between volume, strength, and overall athletic performance. Takeaways Strength is not a one-size-fits-all variable in training. Warm-ups can be adjusted based on time constraints and goals. Volume is a key driver of hypertrophy and strength adaptation. Effective programming requires understanding the client's needs and preferences. Monitoring progress is essential for adjusting training volume and intensity. Time sets can be useful for maximizing training efficiency. Volume can be manipulated to help clients overcome plateaus. Individual differences in athletes affect their response to training volume. Effective communication with clients enhances training outcomes. Hypertrophy can be a primary adaptation alongside strength training. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Training Volume 01:03 Revisiting Previous Topics 02:15 Strength as a Variable in Training 03:53 Warm-Up Strategies 10:35 Understanding Training Volume 17:35 Volume and Hypertrophy 21:02 Balancing Volume and Strength 27:51 Client-Centric Programming 30:49 Monitoring Progress and Adjustments 39:50 Final Thoughts on Volume and Adaptation

11. 

    13 Jan 2026

    Ep7: What is Athleticism? - Whose Coach is it Anyway?

    In this episode, the Dan, Zach, and Mark dive into the multifaceted concept of athleticism, exploring its definitions, the influence of genetics and training, and the varying perspectives across different sports. They discuss the importance of decision-making, skill, and the role of community in sports, while also addressing the impact of technology on athletic performance. The conversation culminates in a reflection on the evolving nature of athleticism and its implications for future generations. Takeaways Athleticism is defined differently across various sports. Decision-making and skill are crucial components of athleticism. General athleticism allows athletes to excel in multiple sports. Nature and nurture both play significant roles in athletic development. Genetics can set the ceiling for athletic potential but not the floor. Training and environment can enhance athletic abilities. Community and competition drive interest in hybrid athletic events. Golf requires athleticism and mental endurance. The rise of technology may influence future athletic performance. Athleticism is about being adaptable and proficient in various tasks. Chapters 00:00 The Importance of Punctuality and Parenting Challenges 00:29 Defining Athleticism: A Complex Discussion 03:36 General vs. Specific Athleticism 06:33 Nature vs. Nurture in Athletic Development 09:27 The Role of Decision-Making in Athleticism 12:36 Motor Learning and Athletic Potential 15:43 The Impact of Genetics on Athleticism 18:29 Training and Its Importance in Athletic Development 21:28 The Future of Youth Sports and Coaching Methods 27:09 The Future of Athleticism in Youth Sports 34:22 The Impact of Technology on Athletic Development 35:38 Defining Athleticism: Esports and Traditional Sports 47:51 The Rise of Hybrid Athletes and Community in Fitness

12. 

    30 Dec 2025

    Ep6: Warmup Wisdom - Whose Coach is it Anyway?

    In this episode, the hosts discuss the nuances of warmups in training, exploring their importance, effectiveness, and the various strategies that can be employed. They dive into the ramp protocol, the concept of minimum effective dose, and the need for individualized warmup routines. The conversation also touches on the collaboration between strength coaches and sport coaches, the definition of warmups, and the balance between physical and skill preparation. Ultimately, the episode emphasizes the significance of understanding the athlete's perspective and adapting warmup strategies accordingly.

13. 

    19 Dec 2025

    Ep5: The Role of Strength in Performance - Whose Coach is it Anyway?

    In this episode, the hosts discuss the implications of a recent study comparing strength training to functional training in adolescent soccer players. They explore the methodology, key findings, and the importance of strength training in enhancing athletic performance. The conversation also delves into programming strategies for soccer athletes, the role of warm-ups, and the concept of microdosing training. The hosts emphasize the significance of strength as a foundational element for speed and power, while also addressing the challenges of overtraining and recovery in athletic training. Takeaways: Strength training is essential for improving speed and power. Functional training often lacks clear definitions and effectiveness. Microdosing plyometric training can enhance athletic performance. Warm-ups are crucial for preparing athletes for training. Overtraining is often linked to under-fueling rather than excessive training. Strength serves as a foundation for all athletic qualities. Programming should adapt to the athlete's schedule and needs. In-season training requires careful management of intensity and volume. Athletes can benefit from strength training even with lower loads if performed explosively. Longevity in sport is critical for continued improvement and performance. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Light Banter 01:36 The Importance of Strength Training 03:59 Study Breakdown: Strength vs. Functional Training 07:02 Understanding Functional Training 09:58 The Role of Plyometrics in Training 12:51 Overtraining and Its Implications 16:11 Filling the Gaps in Athletic Training 18:57 Warm-Ups and Their Importance 22:14 Final Thoughts on Training Strategies 27:20 Strength Programming for Soccer Athletes 30:27 Training Frequency and Load Management 35:48 The Role of Force in Athletic Performance 40:11 Microdosing and Game Day Training 47:57 Seasonal Training Adjustments 53:59 The Importance of Strength in Athletic Development

14. 

    6 Dec 2025

    Ep4: Long Term Athletic Development Part 3 - Whose Coach is it Anyway?

    In this episode, Dan Grimaudo, Mark Tutton, and Zachary Droll discuss the intricacies of long-term athletic development, focusing on the training of college athletes. They explore the challenges faced in this setting, the importance of individualization in training programs, and how to manage injuries effectively. The conversation also highlights the significance of collaboration between private and team coaches, as well as the role of positive vibes in creating an engaging training environment. The episode concludes with reflections on the evolving landscape of athletic training and the importance of communication among coaches. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Long-Term Athletic Development 06:31 Training College Athletes: Insights and Challenges 18:58 The Role of Strength Coaches in Athlete Development 28:55 Injury Management and Programming Adjustments 35:35 Isometric Training Techniques 40:01 Managing Pain and Movement Quality 42:19 Collaboration Between Coaches 47:52 Navigating Athlete Needs and Coaching Dynamics 51:06 The Importance of Communication in Coaching 56:19 Understanding Athlete Buy-In Across Levels 01:00:24 The Role of Vibes in Training 01:07:10 Final Thoughts on Coaching and Development Takeaways Long-term athletic development is crucial for athletes. Training college athletes requires understanding their limited time. Individualization in training is key to athlete success. Injuries should be managed with specific programming adjustments. Collaboration between private and team coaches enhances athlete performance. Vibes in training can significantly impact athlete engagement. Understanding the athlete's needs is essential for effective coaching. Coaches should focus on both physical and emotional aspects of training. Communication between coaches is vital for athlete development. The landscape of athletic training is evolving with new research.

15. 

    20 Nov 2025

    Ep3: Long Term Athletic Development Part 2 - Whose Coach is it Anyway?

    In this episode of the Adapt Perform Podcast, hosts Dan Grimaudo, Zachary Droll, and Mark Tutton dive into the intricacies of long-term athletic development (LTAD) for middle school and high school aged athletes. They discuss the differences in training approaches for younger athletes compared to older ones, emphasizing the importance of movement literacy, strength, and power. The conversation also touches on the role of puberty in athletic development, the balance between strength and speed, and the nuances of sport-specific training. The hosts share insights on how to adapt training programs to individual athletes' needs, considering factors like growth spurts and tendon health. Takeaways : Movement literacy is crucial for young athletes. Strength training should be balanced with agility work. Puberty offers unique opportunities for athletic development. Sport-specific training fills gaps left by regular practice. Tendon health is important during growth spurts. Individualized training programs are essential. Buy-in from athletes enhances training effectiveness. Concurrent training can address multiple athletic needs. Isometrics can be effective for tendon health. Nuanced approaches are needed for different athlete levels. Chapters : 00:00:00 Introduction to LTAD 00:04:27 Training Young Athletes 00:30:38 Puberty and Athletic Development 00:54:48 Strength vs. Agility 01:22:07 Sport-Specific Training 01:49:26 Tendon Health and Growth Spurts 02:07:20 Individualized Training Programs 02:34:06 Concurrent Training Approaches 03:00:30 The Importance of Buy-In 03:27:12 Isometrics and Tendon Health Sound Bites : "Movement literacy is crucial." "Strength and agility must balance." "Puberty is a unique opportunity." "Fill gaps with sport-specific training." "Tendon health matters during growth." "Individualized programs are essential." "Buy-in enhances training effectiveness." "Concurrent training addresses multiple needs." "Isometrics benefit tendon health." "Nuanced approaches for different levels."

16. 

    11 Nov 2025

    Ep2: Long Term Athletic Development Part 1 - Whose Coach is it Anyway?

    In this conversation, the hosts discuss the intricacies of long-term athletic development, emphasizing the importance of a well-rounded approach to training youth athletes. They explore the challenges posed by current models that often prioritize specialization and year-round play, leading to burnout and injury. The discussion highlights the significance of multi-sport participation, the role of parents in supporting their children's athletic journeys, and the need for coaches to create enjoyable training environments. The conversation also delves into specific training strategies for different age groups, from elementary to middle school, and the transition into high school and college athletics. - - Takeaways Long-term athletic development should start early. Multi-sport participation is crucial for youth athletes. Parents often need education on proper athletic development. Training should be enjoyable to foster a love for movement. Learning how to fall is an important skill for safety. The growth spurt is a prime time for power training. Durability and resilience are key for long-term success. Gamification can enhance training for younger athletes. Coaches should focus on movement quality and problem-solving. Strength training becomes essential in middle school. - - Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Long-Term Athletic Development 02:49 Understanding Youth Athlete Training 05:51 The Importance of Multi-Sport Participation 08:34 Challenges in Current Athletic Development Models 11:45 The Role of Coaches and Parents 14:43 Building Durability in Young Athletes 17:19 The Impact of Early Specialization 20:20 Long-Term Success and Athletic Longevity 23:24 Programming for Elementary School Athletes 31:50 Training Foundations: Movement Competency and Overloading 35:38 Balancing Structure and Play in Youth Training 40:17 Proprioception: The Sixth Sense of Athleticism 44:54 The Role of Parents and Coaches in Youth Development 46:23 Transitioning to Middle School Training 54:41 Preparing for High School: Building Strength and Confidence

17. 

    3 Nov 2025

    Ep1: Fitness Trends - Whose Coach is it Anyway?

    In the inaugural episode of Whose Coach is it Anyway on the Adapt / Perform Podcast, hosts Coach Grim and Zachary Droll delve into the world of fitness trends, discussing both the positive and negative aspects of current trends in the fitness industry. They explore the ongoing debate between unilateral and bilateral training, the importance of play in training, and the role of wearable technology. The conversation also touches on the significance of giving credit in content creation and the emerging focus on neurology in training. Throughout the discussion, the hosts emphasize the need for critical thinking and adaptability in fitness coaching. takeaways Fitness trends can be both positive and negative. Unilateral and bilateral training should be chosen based on client needs. Play in training can enhance engagement and effectiveness. Content creators should give credit to original ideas. Wearable technology has limitations and should be used wisely. Neurology in training is an emerging field worth exploring. Training should be fun and effective for clients. The choice of exercises is context-dependent. Critical thinking is essential in fitness coaching. Data in fitness should not be the sole decision-maker.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

5 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

1 ratings