The Aqua Strength Podcast

In episode 71 of the pod, discover how the right environment can accelerate your athletic growth, why perceived pressure is often self-imposed, and how aligning actions with foundational principles like nutrition and mental composure leads to long-term success. Learn the importance of finding the right fit in coaching and training environments to reignite passion and effectiveness. This episode of...

In this episode, Cal & Jack reveal their full weekly training blueprint for sprint swimmers looking to become ELITE sprinters. If you're a coach, athlete, or parent frustrated with the outdated “more is better” approach, this episode is your wake-up call to rethink recovery, technique, and race-specific practice. You'll discover how to structure a week of training that balances high-in...

Most athletes think peak performance comes from pushing harder or doing more drills, but the true game-changers are the mindsets and habits they develop outside the pool. In this episode of the Aqua Strength podcast, Cal and Jack reveal five ELITE athletes from other sports who hold invaluable lessons for swimmers and water polo players alike. If you ENJOY this episode , all we ask is that you hit...

Most swimmers and coaches focus heavily on training volume and technique, but what if the key to unlocking faster performance lies in the mental game and environment? In this eye-opening episode, Jack and Cal reveal how the mental side of sport (confidence, race exposure, and coaching mindset) can make or break race-day results, even more than physical preparation. Discover how real confidence is...

Adam Peaty, the fastest breaststroker in history, discusses his career, training, mindset and dominance. We cover prioritizing speed over endurance, discover how his revolutionary approach to training (focusing on explosive power, precise stroke rate, and mental resilience) can transform performance and reignite passion for the sport. Whether you're a coach, athlete, or enthusiast, this episod...

In episode 66 with Kaitlyn Johnson, we explore her incredible swimming story. From her early days at the YMCA, 28x All-American at Clarion University, to qualifying for the Olympic Trials after training in the pool ONE day per week. Caitlin's journey defies the traditional training narrative. Discover how strategic rest, smart nutrition, and focused training led her to peak performance, after...

In episode 65 of The Aqua Strength Podcast, JB and Cal chat with famous Track Coach , Tony Holler. Tony is known for his training system "Feed the Cats," that he's been using and teaching across the world for DECADES. Tony works with coaches to implement these sprint based training techniques and coaching philosophies across TONS of sports (track, football, soccer, lacrosse, baseball...

In this episode of the pod, JB and Cal chat with Elvis Burrows. Elvis is a former Olympic swimmer turned coach, consultant, & commentator. We discuss why most swimmers are training their brains and bodies for the middle of the race, not the finish line, why traditional yardage-focused practices are holding athletes back, and how embracing high-intensity, technical training can unlock unprecede...

Unlock the secret to staying strong, healthy, and injury-free as a masters athlete. Discover how simple movement routines, strategic strength training, and mobility can transform your performance—and your everyday life. Whether you're swimming multiple times a week or just want to keep your body thriving years into your athletic journey, this episode explains the most effective principles that...

In this episode of The Aqua Strength Podcast, hosts Jack and Cal Brown dive into the power of maintaining a positive attitude, even when circumstances don't go as planned. They share personal stories and insights on how a good attitude can be a total game-changer. The episode emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence, the impact of surrounding oneself with positive people, and practical...

In this episode of The Aqua Strength Podcast, we sit down with Coach Jake Kirsch to explore his journey from a multi-sport athlete to a leading figure in youth strength training. Jake shares his insights on building strong foundations, both physically and mentally, for young athletes. We delve into the importance of mentorship, the challenges of youth sports today, and how to cultivate a supportiv...

In Episode 60 of The Aqua Strength Podcast, we chat with Coach Ray Zingler, a seasoned strength and conditioning expert, & owner of Zingler Strength & Speed. From his early days training in a basement gym to building a thriving coaching business, Ray shares his insights on the importance of authenticity, the power of community, and the role of strength training in personal development. Dis...

In this episode of the pod, coach Austin Pillado shares his unique perspective on the benefits of a multi-sport background and how it has influenced his coaching philosophy. Discover how he emphasizes mental preparation and adaptability to help his athletes thrive. We also explore the critical role of strength training in swimming. Whether you're an athlete, coach, or sports enthusiast, this c...

In this episode of the pod, Cade Carter takes us through his transformative journey from a young, aspiring athlete, to a D1 football player & seasoned strength enthusiast. Cade shares how his passion for weightlifting began, the impact it had on his football career, and the life lessons he gained from the discipline of training. Listen in as Cade discusses the importance of loving the process,...

In episode 57 of the pod, JB and Cal dive into an enlightening conversation with registered dietitian Danielle Getty. Discover the critical role nutrition plays in athletic performance and personal well-being. Danielle shares her extensive experience working with athletes, from the New York City Ballet to high school sports teams, and offers practical advice on how to fuel your body effectively. L...

In this episode of The Aqua Strength Podcast, hosts Jack and Cal Brown dive into the six essential exercises every adult should incorporate into their training routine. From lunges to lat pull-downs, they discuss the benefits, variations, and accessibility of each movement, ensuring that listeners of all fitness levels can find value. Plus, they share personal stories and insights on the importanc...

In Episode 55 of The Aqua Strength Podcast, Jack and Cal dive into the power of embracing discomfort and continuous effort in personal and professional growth. They share personal stories of overcoming challenges, the importance of stepping out of comfort zones, and how these experiences shape their lives. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about resilience, risk-taking, and the pursuit of pass...

In this conversation, Austin discusses the importance of authenticity in coaching and business, the challenges of navigating the strength coaching landscape, and the significance of building a real and meaningful community. We discuss the shift from traditional training methods to more innovative approaches that focus on athlete-centric coaching and the role of mindset in athletic development. Fol...

In this episode of The Aqua Strength Podcast, Cal and Jack dive into THREE training mistakes that athletes often make. Discover how to differentiate between working out and training, the importance of following a structured program, and why recovery is crucial for progress. Whether you're a high school athlete or a busy professional, this episode offers valuable insights to help you optimize y...

In this episode of the AquaStrength podcast, JB and Cal sit down with Nathan Adrian, a three-time Olympian and gold medalist, to explore the journey behind his success. Nathan opens up about his early days in swimming, the role of camaraderie and culture in sports, and the mental strategies that have propelled him to the top. From his experiences at Cal to his Olympic triumphs, Nathan's story...

Join Jack and Cal as they dive back into The Aqua Strength Podcast, kicking off Season 3 with BIG energy and insights. This episode explores the balance between personal commitments and professional growth, highlighting the importance of prioritizing health and fitness. Discover how Jack and Cal navigate the challenges of coaching, the power of online training, and the value of staying true to one...

In episode FIFTY of the pod, JB and Cal chat with Coach, host of the Hyperformance Podcast, and business owner, Angus Bradley. Angus lives and works in Australia and has a very large social media presence. He has a ton of experience training athletes, gen pop, and more recently doing coaching education seminars with all kinds of programs (including the MLB and other professional sports teams). We...

In this episode of the podcast, JB and Cal chat with Coach Joel Smith. Joel is an incredible mind in the field of performance. He is the founder of Just Fly Sports and The Just Fly Performance Podcast. His decades of experience, time working in the track & field world, extensive knowledge and 7 years spent as the athletic performance coach for the Cal (UC Berkeley) swim program made this an in...

In episode 48 of The Aqua Strength Podcast we chat with Coach Sam Hoekstra. Sam has a wealth of knowledge and experience on the pool deck. He recently moved from the midwest to Oceanside, CA where he is now working with the renowned swim team, The Race Club. In this episode we talk about how The Race Club is using new equipmennt and technology to bring a more scientific approach to the sport. We g...

In episode 47 of The Aqua Strength Podcast, JB and Cal chat with leading expert, author, and world renowned S&C coach, Mike Boyle of MBSC (Mike Boyle Strength & Conditioning). Mike goes in depth on functional training, gives his opinions on the sport of swimming, shares a wealth of knowledge from over four decades of experience, and MUCH more. We are beyond thankful for Mike taking the tim...