Inner Athlete Podcast

In this episode, host Trent sits down with Brandon from SOMA PF to explore how objective data—like InBody scans, attendance, and RPE scores—can spark constructive conversations with youth athletes and their parents, removing emotion and focusing on real progress. They discuss why some young athletes disengage—whether due to burnout, fear, or pressure from parents—and how Brandon re-engages them. H...

In this follow-up episode, Trent chats with Brandon from SOMA Performance about how young athletes can take control of their development by focusing on the fundamentals: sleep, nutrition, and mindset.  They also explore how tracking simple metrics like attendance, perceived exertion (RPE), and body scans can improve communication between athletes, coaches, and parents. Discover practical strategie...

Parents and athletes are often told that “more training equals more success.” But what if the real key to long-term performance is actually doing less ? In this episode, host Trent sits down with Brandon from SOMA Performance & Fitness to unpack why recovery, quality over quantity, and health-first approaches are critical for young athletes. From working with adolescents in clinical settings t...

In Part 3 of this series, host Trent is joined by mindset coach Kathryn Green to explore how confidence, feedback, and self-worth shape long-term performance in young athletes. Together, they unpack how to deliver feedback that builds ownership and belief, not pressure or burnout. Kathryn shares simple but powerful tools for helping kids stay grounded under pressure and anchored in who they are, n...

In this episode, Trent chats with mindset coach Kathryn Green about the real keys to youth development: confidence and calm. They unpack why confidence grows from competence, not just praise, and how a safe space to fail helps kids thrive.     Kathryn shares her supportive coaching approach and simple tools parents can use to track progress and celebrate wins. They tackle performance anxiety in yo...

In this episode, Trent sits down with performance coach Kathryn Green to explore the emotional toll that high expectations can take on young athletes and students. They dive into the challenges kids face when their self-worth becomes tied to performance, and how perfectionism, pressure, and comparison can quietly erode confidence and joy. Kathryn shares insights from her work in self-worth and min...

In this episode, Trent and Chad Ronk, former NCAA Division II athlete and Melbourne youth coach, discuss the future of junior lacrosse in Australia. They compare the U.S. development pathways with Australia’s community-based system, highlighting strengths and opportunities for growth. Chad shares his coaching philosophy and vision for youth development, emphasizing skills, balance, and enjoyment. ...

What happens when U.S. college-level lacrosse experience meets Australia’s grassroots sports culture? In this episode, host Trent sits down with Chad Ronk, a former NCAA Division II athlete turned youth coach in Melbourne, to unpack how international insights are reshaping the future of junior lacrosse in Australia. Chad shares his journey from the intensity of D2 college lacrosse to building up t...

In Part 2 of our conversation with Mat Crawford, Head Coach of the Bentleigh Greens U15 Girls, we dive into the real-world outcomes of his coaching philosophy. Matt shares powerful success stories from his players’ journeys, highlighting the habits, mindset shifts, and key moments that helped them grow. We also explore the biggest lessons Matt has learned throughout his coaching career and his adv...

What does it take to shape not just skilled footballers, but confident, resilient young women on and off the pitch?  In this episode, Trent sits down with Matt Crawford, Head Coach of the Bentleigh Greens U15 Girls, for an honest and insightful conversation about the real work behind developing youth female athletes. The discussion explores Matt’s coaching journey and the philosophy that drives hi...

In this powerful follow-up episode, Trent welcomes back concussion expert Dr. Alan Pearce  about one of sport’s most misunderstood issues. Together, they bust common concussion myths, explore how early exposure to brain impacts can affect long-term performance, and explain what every athlete, parent, and coach should understand to protect the developing brain. If you're part of the sporting w...

In this eye-opening episode, Trent Pirihi, Owner and Head Strength Coach of inner Athlete speaks with renowned neuroscientist Professor Alan Pearce about concussions and their ripple effects on the brain. From the short and long-term consequences of head trauma to the nuanced differences between children and youth,  They also unpack common myths, discuss the link between concussion and neurodegene...

In this follow-up episode, Trent and Wisconsin University's Billy Breider dive even deeper into the world of strength and conditioning for swimmers.  They explore the science behind dryland training, periodisation strategies, injury prevention, and how strength and conditioning translates to peak performance in the water.  From the unique training methods at the University of Wisconsin to rea...

Join host Trent as he sits down with Billy Breider to dive into the unique strength and conditioning  philosophy at the University of Wisconsin.  They’ll explore the training methodologies, athlete development strategies, and performance insights that set Wisconsin apart in the world of collegiate swimming.  Whether you're a coach, athlete, or sports performance enthusiast, this episode offer...

Trent is joined by Emma from Bullet Allstars Cheerleading, where she’s a senior coach and manager with a wealth of dance and cheerleading experience. In this episode, they dive into the biggest challenges young cheerleaders face and how parents can support their child's growth and enjoyment in the sport. They also discuss strength & conditioning, nutrition for young athletes, and tips for...

In this week's episode, Trent sits down with osteopath Shane Campbell, a seasoned expert with experience working in professional golf and treating athletes from various sports.  Together, they dive into the secrets of helping golfers unlock their full potential by focusing on optimal preparation and understanding the unique demands of the game.  Shane shares valuable insights on injury preven...

Trent and Billy dive back into their conversation about the strategies strength and conditioning coaches and swim coaches can use to elevate swimming performance. They explore the powerful 'Be Activated' technique, highlighting its impact on breathing, muscular sequencing, and overall swim performance. Trent shares a compelling case study from his own coaching experience, revealing how B...

Trent speaks with Billy Zebra, who works alongside Trent with the Melbourne Swimming Club physical preparation program. They recently had success at the state championships beating a 10-year drought against a rival club.  In this episode, Trent and Billy discuss their opportunities, challenges, lessons learnt and key programming considerations for youth swimmers of varying ages and levels. They sp...

Trent teams up with Sports Nutritionist and Educator, Ange Alexandrakis, to dive deep into the nutritional needs of young athletes at every stage of their development. They explore the powerful social influences shaping young people’s relationship with food and unpack expert insights on sports drinks, protein powders, and creatine. Whether you’re a parent, a young athlete, or a coach, this episode...

In this episode, Trent speaks with teacher and sports nutritionist, Ange Alexandrakis. With experience working with youth and also with chronic health issues - Ange has the expertise and knowledge to guide young people and their parents into making the right choices when it comes to supporting recovery, growth. academic and sporting performance.  Together they dive into the role nutrition plays in...

In this episode, Trent and Dean dive deeper into the role of AFL Youth Athlete Programs in enhancing junior football performance. They explore how parents can play a pivotal role in supporting their children's athletic development and maximizing their potential. The conversation also highlights the critical impact of communication between parents and athletes on mental and psychological well-...

In this week’s episode, Trent speaks with renowned strength and conditioning coach Christian Woodford exploring the challenges faced by university graduates entering the strength and conditioning field. While many come out with solid academic knowledge, they often lack the hands-on experience needed to thrive in the real world. Christian and Trent also share their insights into the realities of be...

In this week's episode, Trent and Dean dive deeper into the advantages of youth athletes taking part in AFL youth development programs. They explore the critical role of running in enhancing AFL performance while reducing the risk of injury.  TTrent and Dean also examine the impact parents have on their child's success in these programs, as well as how having parent involvement fosters s...

In this special milestone episode, Trent and Dave recap their key learning lessons over the last 2 years and 100 episodes of the Inner Athlete Podcast.  They discuss the origins and conception of the podcast, what the early topics involved, contribution of special guests and key learnings from significant episodes. They conclude with their future plans for the podcast going forward.  A special tha...

Trent speaks with renowned strength and conditioning coach Christian Woodford, who brings over a decade of invaluable experience in athletic training. Together they explore the crucial role of exposing youth athletes to diverse movements to enhance performance and reduce injury risk as they transition into adulthood. Christian shares insights on the importance of physical preparation, especially f...