The Layback Podcast welcomes Ezra Bye, the Director of Player Development and Pitching Lab Coordinator at Wake Forest University, as he shares his journey from being a D2 player to a college baseball coach with a few pro ball stops in between. He discusses the importance of player development, the continuum of rehab and performance, and the role of data and technology in modern coaching. Ezra also highlights the upcoming Wake Forest Player Development Seminar, emphasizing the value of networking and knowledge sharing among baseball's thought leaders.

Adam Moreau is running things solo on The Layback Podcast for this Thanksgiving episode (episode 90) to discuss the current state of FlexPro Grip, upcoming athlete interviews, and the company's growth within Major League Baseball organizations. The conversation delves into the introduction of dynamic programming for in-season training, the importance of maintenance versus development, and the new weekly protocol schedule feature in the FlexPro Grip app.

Dawson Netz, a right-handed pitcher in the Chicago Cubs organization, shares his journey from being a standout high school player, to navigating injuries at the University of Arizona, and eventually getting a crack at pro ball in episode 89 of The Layback Podcast. He discusses the importance of analytics in pitching development, the mental challenges athletes face, and the significance of building trust with coaches and players. Dawson also reflects on his brief transition to coaching and its direct impact on his own player development, the Cubs' approach to high performance, and the future of baseball analytics. His story is one of resilience, learning, and the drive to help others succeed in the sport.

Dr. Mike Sonne, Pitching Scientist for the Chicago Cubs, shares his journey from academia to the world of baseball in episode 88 of The Layback Podcast. He discusses his background in ergonomics, the development of ProPlay AI, and the importance of workload tracking in player performance. Dr. Sonne emphasizes the need for innovative training approaches and effective communication within sports teams. Sonne sings the praises of the Cubs organization in their ability to create player in the development process. He also highlights the significance of inclusivity in sports through his work with the Steel City Inclusive Softball Association, and shares his aspirations for the future of baseball and player development.

Episode 87 of The Layback Podcast features physical therapist Jason Modafari as he shares his journey into the world of sports rehabilitation, discussing his transition to the Athletic Potential team, manning the post at Driveline Tampa. He delves into the challenges of burnout in traditional physical therapy settings, the benefits of cash-based therapy, and innovative approaches to athlete rehabilitation. Jason emphasizes the importance of integrating strength training with physical therapy, utilizing technology for objective measurements, and even offers a look into his nuanced application bodybuilding principles to enhance athletic performance. He also highlights the significance of workload management in rehabilitation and expresses excitement for the upcoming offseason, where he aims to help athletes in a manner that he has always dreamed of.

This webinar focuses on the development of Baseball Rehab Network's new evidence-based rehabilitation guidelines for athletes recovering from UCL injuries. Daryl Moreau, Dylan Newcomer, Gunnar Brolinson, and Matt Fury discuss the need for updated protocols, the importance of individualized rehab plans, and the role of various metrics in assessing readiness to return to play. Key themes include the significance of forearm strength, workload management, and the psychological aspects of recovery. The discussion emphasizes a comprehensive approach to rehabilitation that prioritizes performance and injury prevention, especially for pitchers.

For The Layback Podcast's episode 85, Adam welcomes back physical therapist Nolan Rappe. The two talk about his transition to Premier Pitching Performance and the innovative approaches they are taking in athlete development. They delve into the evolution of the Fortify and Boost platforms and the importance of tracking athlete performance. The crux of the episode surrounds the spectrum of training dosages and prescriptions with particular mind to neurology and physiology in training. The discussion includes thoughts on general physical preparedness, the role of assessments, and the future of UCL rehab protocols, emphasizing the need for objectivity and comprehensive strategies in athlete care. Witness Adam and Nolan's work on display in Baseball Rehab Network's newly designed UCL rehab protocols - Redefining UCL Rehab: Data-Driven Guidelines from Surgery to Competition.

The Layback Podcast is back for episode 84 with Don Day, the owner of Hog Performance. Don shares his unique journey from football to baseball training and shows the massive undertaking of learning this journey required. "The Warthog," as he is affectionately known, discusses his innovative training methods, including conjugate training, and emphasizes the importance of assessments to tailor personalized programs for peak athlete development. He also reflects on his experiences in Japan, where he provided coaching insights to a premier facility. The conversation highlights Don's commitment to his athletes and his vision for the future of Hog Performance.

Josh Davis, a Doctor of Physical Therapy and founder of TriStar Strength and Rehab joins the conversation for episode 83 of The Layback Podcast. Adam and Josh discuss the gaps in physical therapy education, the importance of individualized care, and the role of communication in translating data into actionable insights for athletes. Josh also shares his thoughts on the need for youth athletes to engage in multiple sports to prevent overuse injuries. Additionally, he expresses how the FlexPro Grip device has enhanced both training and athlete care in his clinic. The conversation highlights the significance of understanding the athlete as a person, not just their injuries, and the evolving landscape of sports science and rehabilitation.

In episode 82 of The Layback Podcast, host Adam Moreau interviews Mike Grady of Grady's Pitching School, a seasoned pitching coach with over 20 years of experience and former pro pitcher. The two discuss the evolution of player development, the integration of AI in coaching, and the importance of assessments and training plans. Mike shares insights on managing athlete workloads, the significance of recovery, and the collaborative approach to coaching. He emphasizes the impact of belief in athletes and the continuous learning process in coaching. The conversation also touches on Grady Pitching School's VIP program and multi-sport participation for young athletes.