The Coaches Room with Coach Kav
The Coaches' Room Podcast, hosted by elite performance coach Justin Kavanaugh, widely known as Coach Kav, offers an in-depth look into the world of high-performance coaching. With a background as an Olympic coach, speaker, and author, Coach Kav brings his extensive experience to the forefront, helping athletes, entrepreneurs, and leaders unlock elite performance. Each episode features conversations with top-tier coaches, performance staff, and scientists, delving into topics such as coaching methodologies, personal development, and player development. Listeners gain valuable insights into the strategies and mindsets that drive success in competitive environments. Whether you're a coach, athlete, or someone interested in the dynamics of high-performance teams, The Coaches' Room Podcast provides practical advice and inspiration to elevate your game.
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Fasting, Discipline & Dysmorphia: The Dark Side of Getting Shredded | Michael Warner
07/23/2025
Fasting, Discipline & Dysmorphia: The Dark Side of Getting Shredded | Michael Warner
In this conversation, the speakers explore the intricate relationship between bodybuilding and body dysmorphia, highlighting how mental health issues often accompany the relentless pursuit of physical perfection. They dive into the immense discipline required in bodybuilding, the psychological challenges faced during competition prep, and the crucial role of hunger management and nutrition. Fasting is discussed as a powerful and beneficial tool, alongside the need for strategic coaching and an understanding of individual client goals. The dialogue also expands into the broader realm of health optimization, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive lab work, daily lifestyle habits, and a thoughtful approach to long-term performance. The speakers touch on the nuances of dietary preferences, the impact of metabolic health, and the benefits of maintaining consistency in a healthy lifestyle. Ultimately, the conversation highlights how transformative challenges can be—both physically and mentally—and reinforces the responsibility that coaches and individuals share in empowering others along their health journeys. 📌 Topics Covered: -Body dysmorphia is common among bodybuilders. -Bodybuilding requires immense discipline and mental strength. -The process of preparing for a competition is transformative. -Hunger management is crucial during bodybuilding prep. -Fasting can be a beneficial practice for bodybuilders. -Nutrition plays a significant role in achieving fitness goals. -Every small dietary choice can impact overall results. -Understanding individual goals is key to effective coaching. -Coaching requires recognizing client transparency and honesty. -Adaptation to training and nutrition is essential for progress. Establishing a baseline through lab work is crucial. -Health optimization requires understanding lifestyle habits. -Performance expectations should be realistic and gradual. -Dietary habits can vary significantly between home and travel. -Metabolic health is essential for overall well-being. -Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can prevent future health issues. -Small daily habits can lead to significant health improvements. -Bodybuilders exemplify discipline in health and nutrition. -Challenges can lead to personal growth and transformation. -Empowering others to take control of their health is vital. ⏱ Timestamps: 00:00 - Body Dysmorphia and Bodybuilding 03:06 - The Discipline of Bodybuilding 06:02 - Mental Challenges in Bodybuilding 09:06 - Nutrition and Hunger Management 11:56 - The Role of Fasting in Bodybuilding 14:56 - Coaching and Client Relationships 17:54 - Understanding Individual Goals and Adaptation 23:44 - Understanding Health Optimization and Lab Work 26:33 - The Journey to Performance and Expectations 30:59 - Dietary Habits and Personal Preferences 34:24 - The Importance of Metabolic Health 39:18 - Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle 43:57 - The Transformative Power of Challenges
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This Is What Happens When You Don’t Give Up | Arman Advani
07/16/2025
This Is What Happens When You Don’t Give Up | Arman Advani
In this episode, the speaker shares a powerful story of their journey from a challenging personal and professional start to becoming a successful entrepreneur. Starting with humble beginnings in New York, they were faced with the challenge of funding their own education while navigating through a tough job market. With a determined mindset and a willingness to grind, they took on multiple jobs, including waiting tables, while attending college and building connections. After facing an impasse in their job search, they took a bold step by applying to a tech startup. The initial interview process was not smooth, but their persistence and willingness to learn caught the attention of the company's leadership. They got their first opportunity in a fast-paced environment and began learning from scratch, developing expertise in the digital strategy field. Through the speaker's hustle and focus, they grew their skills in SEO, content creation, link-building, and user experience. The speaker later co-founded an agency that helped businesses not just with rankings, but with comprehensive SEO strategies including content, technicals, and conversions. They discuss the evolution of SEO and digital marketing practices and how their agency adapted to meet the industry's growing needs. By focusing on holistic digital strategies and leveraging technology and AI tools, they streamlined workflows, improved team efficiency, and delivered better results for clients. The episode also touches on the importance of adapting to market changes, identifying what clients truly care about (bottom-line results), and the importance of building a team and the right tools to scale. A strong emphasis is placed on the mindset of an entrepreneur, continuous learning, and taking action. Description for socials: They started with nothing, just grit, late nights, and rejection. No clear path, just a hunger to learn and a refusal to quit. From waiting tables to building a successful agency, it wasn’t luck, it was persistence. You don’t need all the answers. You just need to keep going. Tag someone who needs this today. ⏱ Timestamps: 00:00 - The Journey Begins: From College to Career 03:00 - The Evolution of SEO: Challenges and Triumphs 05:47 -Building a Business: The Importance of Strategy 08:44 - The Power of SEO: Transforming Small Businesses 11:47 - Learning and Growth: The Role of Obsession 14:54 - Navigating the SEO Landscape: Trends and Insights 17:50 - The Future of SEO: Adapting to Change 28:33 - The Four Pillars of SEO 30:46 - Building a Million Dollar Brand 34:32 - The Importance of Data in Marketing 37:39 - The Birth of Search Atlas 39:20 - AI and Human Collaboration 42:41 - Scaling with Technology 46:09 - Choosing the Right Clients 49:00 - Supporting Local Businesses 50:50 - The Future of SEO and AI 56:31 - Iterating for Success Follow Eric: Linkedin: Instagram: X: Follow Coach Kav: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-kavanaugh-80629682/ Instagram: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coachkav/
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Building a Culture of Excellence in Coaching - CJ Appenzeller
07/09/2025
Building a Culture of Excellence in Coaching - CJ Appenzeller
In this engaging conversation, the speakers explore the journey of a multi-talented coach who has transitioned from humble beginnings to consulting with elite athletes and teams. They discuss the importance of core values, building a culture of excellence, and the challenges faced in coaching. The conversation highlights the significance of character, mentorship, and personal growth in the coaching profession, as well as the impact of education on future coaches. Key Topics Covered: CJ's journey from a 300 sq ft sublease to multiple high-performance training facilities Why coaching is a servant’s role — and how CJ embodies that philosophy The two core values driving ATS: “Always a White Belt” and “Hard Hat Mentality” The tension between technical coaching and emotional investment How CJ bridges the gap between academia and the real-world demands of sport Lessons on leadership, letting go, and guiding athletes through tough decisions The importance of coachability, mentorship, and lifelong learning Preparing to become a girl dad — and leading by example at home and in life ⏱ Timestamps: 00:00 – Values Before Tactics 01:45 – Meet CJ Appenzeller 03:30 – Humble Beginnings in Lindenwold 05:00 – Discovering Strength & Conditioning 06:40 – Always a White Belt 08:15 – Hard Hat Mentality 10:00 – Building a Performance Culture 12:30 – The Role of a Coach as a Servant Leader 14:45 – Bridging the Gap: Coaching vs. Academia 17:00 – From Theory to Application in the Real World 18:30 – Developing In-House Talent vs. Collecting It 20:00 – Letting Athletes Go (And Watching Them Return) 22:30 – Emotional Investment in Athlete Success 23:45 – Mentoring the Next Generation of Coaches 25:00 – Becoming a Girl Dad 26:45 – Evolution Without Losing Yourself 28:00 – Closing Reflections and What's Next
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The Real Psychology Behind Winning in Business - Ashton Wilson
07/02/2025
The Real Psychology Behind Winning in Business - Ashton Wilson
In this conversation, Ashton shares his journey from a challenging upbringing to becoming the founder of Active Solutions AI. He discusses the importance of persistence, the impact of early experiences on personal growth, and how winning in sports shaped his mindset. Ashton emphasizes the significance of manifestation, focus, and accountability in achieving goals, as well as the evolution of his career from the fitness industry to AI solutions. He explains the role of conversational AI and project management tools in enhancing business efficiency and the value of useful information in driving success. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of scaling a business, the importance of effective leadership, and the role of CRM systems in enhancing operational efficiency. They discuss the psychological aspects of winning and losing in business, the significance of identifying lead priorities, and the necessity of deep work for problem-solving. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of passion and commitment in entrepreneurship, as well as the challenges of navigating business bottlenecks and maintaining momentum for growth. ⏱ Timestamps: 00:00 – 00:55 — Finding Confidence in the High Jump 00:55 – 01:19 — The Power of Conversational AI 01:19 – 02:08 — Who Is Ashton Wilson? 02:08 – 03:11 — A Rough Start: Childhood and Early Struggles 03:11 – 04:20 — Work Ethic: Lessons from the Track 04:20 – 06:08 — Handling Failure and Disappointment 06:08 – 07:13 — The First Taste of Winning 07:13 – 09:21 — Sport to Business: Connecting the Dots 09:21 – 11:05 — Raising the Bar: The High Jump Analogy for Leadership 11:05 – 13:17 — Walking into Bigger Rooms 13:17 – 15:09 — Manifesting the Dream College 15:09 – 17:19 — Action Plans & Alignment 17:19 – 19:06 — Focus, Environment & Maturity 19:06 – 21:35 — Not a Victim: Ownership & Accountability 21:35 – 23:12 — Starting Familiar: The Gym Agency Days 23:12 – 25:18 — The Accidental AI Company 25:18 – 27:05 — Conversational AI & CRM Automation Explained 27:05 – 31:09 — ClickUp vs. Everything Else 31:09 – 33:10 — The True Value of Useful Information 33:10 – 35:24 — Personal Productivity & Simple Systems 35:24 – 41:10 — Seeing the Big Picture: From Blimp to Trenches 41:10 – 43:06 — Scaling Without Self-Sabotage 43:06 – 46:18 — The Power of Diversity & Best Practices 46:18 – 50:00 — Lead Priority: The Most Overlooked CRM Mistake 50:00 – 57:14 — Learning to Win: From High Jump to Decathlete to CEO Follow Ashton: Instagram: Youtube: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashton-wilson-634ab7240/
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Why High Performers Fail at Health (Until It’s Too Late) - Gary Mahabir
06/25/2025
Why High Performers Fail at Health (Until It’s Too Late) - Gary Mahabir
In this conversation, the speakers discuss the importance of fitness and health, particularly for successful executives who often neglect their physical well-being in pursuit of career achievements. They explore the mindset of treating health like an investment, emphasizing the need for personalized assessments and empathetic training approaches. The discussion highlights the transformative impact of fitness on individuals' lives, enabling them to become leaders in their families and communities. The speakers also touch on the foundational habits necessary for maintaining health and performance. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the importance of customizing fitness programs for busy individuals, the significance of commitment in health journeys, and the mental blocks that often hinder progress. They emphasize the need for a long-term approach to health and fitness, addressing body image issues, and the relativity of being 'lean.' The dialogue also touches on the importance of mindset and the role of health leaders in guiding others towards better health. Description for socials: Chasing success means nothing if your health is the price. Fitness isn’t just about looking good it’s about leading with energy, presence, and purpose. Your body is your foundation. Invest in it like your life depends on it because it does. Tag someone who needs this reminder. ⏱ Timestamps: 00:00 - The Journey of Fitness and Investment 09:43 -Understanding the Importance of Health Investments 20:00 - Transforming Lives Through Personalized Fitness Programs 24:51 - Assessing Movement Fundamentals 26:35 - Customizing Exercise Programs 27:49 - Balancing Nutrition and Lifestyle 30:29 - Overcoming Mental Barriers 33:39 - Defining 'Leanness' and Health 35:01 - The Impact of Weight on Health 36:58 - Investing in Long-Term Health 39:40 - The Importance of Mindset in Transformation 41:07 - Building a Sustainable Health Journey 43:34 - The Role of Support in Health Leadership official website 21-Day Power Reset Program Online Coaching (Men Over 40) Group Coaching & Community Speaking & Workshops Featured on The Personal Trainer Experience, episode "Gary Mahabir: The Fighter, The Philosopher, The Coach" (May 29, 2025), sharing insights from 30+ years of coaching and training CEOs and high-performers Technology-Enhanced Services
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Stress Isn’t the Problem. It’s the Performance Edge You’re Ignoring: Dr. Mike T. Nelson
06/18/2025
Stress Isn’t the Problem. It’s the Performance Edge You’re Ignoring: Dr. Mike T. Nelson
Most coaches want to improve performance. Dr. Mike T Nelson wants to improve outcomes that actually last. In this episode of The Coaches Room Podcast, Dr. Nelson explains why real coaching starts with understanding the client’s life, not just their training metrics. We talk about the difference between eustress and distress, why HRV and recovery data should guide but not overwhelm, and how to build programs that create buy-in without relying on complexity. This is a practical conversation for anyone working in performance, fitness, or rehab who wants to coach with more clarity and less noise. From protein intake to wearable tech, we explore what actually helps people change and how to meet them where they are without dumbing it down. 📌 In this episode: How to find the most leverageable coaching habits The difference between stress that helps and stress that harms Using HRV and data to inform smarter decisions Why simplicity builds more trust and better results What to change in your approach if clients are not sticking to the plan Subscribe for weekly conversations that connect science, coaching, and real life. ⏱ Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Dr. Mike T. Nelson 02:59 - The Importance of Coaching Leverage 06:02 - Transitioning from Engineering to Nutrition and Training 09:06 - Understanding Sleep and Its Practical Implications 12:11 - The Role of Technology in Health Tracking 15:05 - Integrating Data Tracking with Coaching 18:05 - Practical Strategies for Improving Sleep 20:58 - The Impact of Environment on Health 23:49 - Using Technology Effectively in Coaching 27:02 - Interpreting Data for Better Health Outcomes 30:16 - Overcoming Mental Barriers in Performance 33:38 - The Role of Technology in Recovery 36:43 - Understanding the Autonomic Nervous System 39:31 - Eustress vs. Distress in Training 43:53 - Adapting Training to Individual Needs 48:12 - Setting Goals and Assessing Progress 50:28 - The Influence of Music on Performance Cardio for Meatheads: Aerobic Work and Testing for Lifting Meatheads (PDF): Phys-Flex Open and Cold Immersion (PDF): Flex Diet Certification: You can find most of his work here at this link:
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Injury. Recovery. Reinvention. What Dr. Ken Kinakin Knows That The Fitness World Still Doesn’t.
06/10/2025
Injury. Recovery. Reinvention. What Dr. Ken Kinakin Knows That The Fitness World Still Doesn’t.
In this episode of The Coaches Room, Dr. Ken Kinakin shares insights from a career spent at the intersection of chiropractic care, sports performance, and injury prevention. He dives into the evolution of health and fitness education, the importance of integrating different disciplines, and how AI is changing the way we approach human performance. From the role of magnesium in recovery to the real reason elite athletes stay healthy, this conversation is filled with practical insights and thoughtful reflections. Dr. Kinakin also explores the influence of music on creativity, the importance of asking better questions, and what coaches need to know to stay relevant in a constantly shifting landscape. If you're a coach, trainer, or just serious about health and performance, this is one of those episodes that stays with you. TIMESTAMP: 00:00 - Introduction to Dr. Ken Kinakin and SWIS 02:53 - The Evolution of Injury Prevention in Sports 06:01 - Integrating Health and Fitness Professionals 09:02 - The Role of Humility in High Performance 11:48 - Personal Journey and the Impact of Chiropractic 15:02 - The Importance of Understanding Injuries 17:57 - Exploring New Modalities and Techniques 21:01 - The Influence of Music and Curiosity on Learning 23:57 - The Future of Sports Performance and AI Integration 34:33 - Leveraging AI for Health Education 39:11 - The Intersection of Research and Practical Application 46:01 - Understanding Dysfunction in the Human Body 58:48 - The Role of Biochemistry in Performance 01:07:03 - Adrenal Health and Recovery Strategies 01:09:18 - Mastery in Simple Skills 01:10:21 - The Evolution of Medical Understanding 01:11:31 - Training Insights from Bodybuilding Legends 01:14:48 - The Science of Strength Training 01:18:02 - Bioenergetics and Its Impact 01:21:03 - Muscle Testing in Athletic Training 01:24:20 - The Future of Health and Wellness 01:27:33 - AI's Role in Health and Fitness 01:28:54 - Simple Steps to Better Health 01:33:20 - The Importance of Asking the Right Questions
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From FBI Hostage Negotiator to High-Performance Leader: Ambition is key, Perfectionism will hold you back: Chris Voss
06/03/2025
From FBI Hostage Negotiator to High-Performance Leader: Ambition is key, Perfectionism will hold you back: Chris Voss
In this conversation, former FBI hostage negotiator Chris Voss discusses the importance of navigating negative emotions to gain a competitive advantage. He emphasizes the role of practice and innovation in achieving success, contrasting ambition with perfectionism in performance. Voss also explores the concept of flow state as a key to enhancing performance and even healing, sharing insights from his experiences and observations in both negotiation and sports. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the concept of 'chatter', the internal dialogue we all experience, and how it influences our mindset and actions. They discuss the importance of maintaining a positive and actionable inner dialogue, the impact of surrounding oneself with greatness, and the significance of listening and empathy in conversations. The discussion also touches on navigating difficult conversations, embracing conflict for personal growth, and the journey of learning and adapting in both personal and professional contexts. Ultimately, they emphasize the value of building relationships through tactical empathy and the joy of creating meaningful ventures. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 - Introduction and Background 03:01 - Curiosity and Intellectual Growth 06:11 - Navigating Negative Emotions 09:06 - The Power of Practice and Execution 12:04 - Closing the Gap in Sales Performance 14:58 - Ambition vs. Perfectionism in Performance 18:03 - Learning from Wins and Losses 20:59 - The Role of Emotion in Performance 24:09 - Flow State and Its Impact 26:47 - Creating a Positive Environment 29:47 - Harnessing Flow in Daily Work 37:30 - Mindfulness and Positive Chatter 43:02 - The Power of Mentorship and Environment 46:29 - The Importance of Listening and Connection 52:05 - Understanding Emotions and Empathy 01:00:12 - Tactical Empathy in Business and Life 01:06:42 - Building Relationships and Legacy 01:11:32 - Creating Joy and Fun in Business
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Why Top Athletes Really Leave Sports To Start Businesses - Kane Sivesind
05/27/2025
Why Top Athletes Really Leave Sports To Start Businesses - Kane Sivesind
What does it really take to go from being an athlete to building a business that serves others? In this episode, we sit down with someone who’s lived it—an athlete turned entrepreneur who’s taken the grit and grind from the gym and transformed it into a mission-driven software company for coaches. We dive into: ➡️ The mental shift from sports to business ➡️ The pain points of the gym industry (and how they turned them into solutions) ➡️ How COVID reshaped their approach to coaching and business ➡️ The role of family values, integrity, and long-term thinking in entrepreneurship This conversation isn't just about building software. It’s about building with purpose. Whether you're a coach, a founder, or just trying to figure out your next chapter—this one will resonate. 🎧 Listen, reflect, and take notes. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 - Introduction and Background 03:03 - Athletic Journey and College Experience 05:56 - Transitioning from Sports to Business 09:07 - Discovering Passion for Strength and Conditioning 11:54 - Work Ethic and Family Influence 14:47 - Building a Gym and Entrepreneurial Challenges 20:52 - Creating a Software Solution for Coaches 31:30 - The Evolution of Coaching Technology 34:01 - Transitioning from Gym to Software 35:40 - The Impact of COVID-19 on Business 39:01 - The Importance of Communication in Coaching 43:12 - Integrity and Long-Term Success 46:09 - Shared Values in Business Partnerships 50:09 - Architecting a Successful Business Model 53:51 - Understanding Market Dynamics 57:59 - Helping Hidden Gems Shine 01:02:50 - The Role of Family and Values in Business
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The Voice Coach Who Unlocks Human Potential: You’re capable of more than you believe.
05/20/2025
The Voice Coach Who Unlocks Human Potential: You’re capable of more than you believe.
In this powerful conversation, renowned voice coach Per Bristow shares his journey from being a violin prodigy to becoming one of the most sought-after performance and vocal coaches in the world. Together, we explore how the voice is more than sound — it’s a reflection of our inner state, fears, healing, and growth. From the tension of nervousness on stage to the emotional breakthroughs of vocal freedom, this episode dives deep into the transformational power of voice work, self-awareness, and coaching. You’ll learn why vulnerability is essential to performance, how fear can fuel growth, and why the greatest teachers are always the best learners. Whether you’re a performer, coach, creative, or leader — this episode is for anyone looking to unlock their voice, their potential, and their power. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 – The Journey of a Learner 02:48 – From Violin Prodigy to Voice Coach 06:01 – Understanding the Voice as an Instrument 08:59 – The Role of Nervousness in Performance 11:54 – Embracing Vulnerability and Spontaneity 14:50 – The Importance of Authenticity in Performance 17:57 – Crisis Situations and Performance Pressure 21:09 – The Healing Power of the Voice 23:52 – Transformational Coaching Experiences 26:56 – The Unknown Potential of the Body 30:07 – The Role of a Coach in High Performance 35:19 – Navigating Fear and Rejection 36:31 – The Journey of Skill Acquisition 39:10 – Transforming Vocal Techniques 42:17 – Understanding Focus and Distraction 44:54 – Embracing Fear as a Strength 52:07 – Principles for Life and Growth 54:06 – The Power of Movement and Action 01:01:05 – Unleashing Potential Through Teaching 01:09:50 – The Impact of High Expectations
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