In this episode of Totten Talks, Leo Totten and Cait Finn reunite after a holiday break to dive into the world of weightlifting, coaching, and building strong communities both on and off the platform.

Both Leo Totten and Cait Finn reflect on their combined 70+ years of experience in weightlifting, sharing entertaining anecdotes about family traditions and the evolution of coaching tools—from VHS tape video analysis and handwritten newsletters to modern digital platforms.

In this episode, Leo and Cait cover:

• The evolution of remote coaching and technology in weightlifting, including early video analysis methods and newsletter distribution
• Building individualized training programs versus using generic templates
• The balance between art and science in coaching, and the importance of adapting research to practical coaching
• The value of having good mentors, colleagues, and a positive support network in both coaching and athletic careers
• Stories highlighting how pivotal moments and supportive communities shaped their coaching philosophies
• The importance of giving every athlete a fair shot and the unexpected ways people can succeed
• Upcoming opportunities in 2026, such as camps, USAW courses, and the coaching mentorship program. 

Tune in for legendary stories, practical wisdom, and tips on how to create a supportive environment in weightlifting—whether you’re an athlete, coach, or just love the culture of lifting.

To Check out our Coaching Accelerator: https://www.tottentraining.com/coaching-mentor-program

2026 Events: https://www.tottentraining.com/events

Follow Totten Training on social media: @tottentraining
and visit the Totten Training website. 

In this episode of Totten Talks, Leo brings in not one but two guests—Shana McKeever and Tim Suchomel, a husband and wife team with impressive backgrounds in strength and conditioning and sports science. The conversation covers their unique career journeys, experiences in education, and what it’s really like to bridge the gap between research and practical coaching.

Shana has spent her career coaching at a high school and now leads a barbell club in Pittsburgh. Tim’s experience includes coaching across multiple universities, academic research, and hands-on sports science work. Their story started at East Tennessee State University (ETSU), and both share insights on how this program shaped their philosophies.

In this episode, Leo and the guests cover:

• Shana’s path from California to Pittsburgh, coaching youth, and building a community in weightlifting
• Tim’s experiences in Wisconsin, research focus, and transition to academic and sports science roles
• Their “debacle” first meeting and how they’ve integrated their careers—and nerdy discussions—at home
• The importance of bridging research and practice in strength training, and translating “Coach Speak” for real-world results
• How individualized training applies to both male and female athletes, with a look at current research and myths around female athletic training
• Their roles and contributions within the NSCA and advice for coaches to get involved
• Upcoming presentations at East Tennessee’s Coaches College, including topics on female athletes and task-specific strength

It’s a fun, insightful talk blending science, coaching, and real-life teamwork!

About Tim & Shana: 

Dr. Tim Suchomel is an Associate Professor and Director of the Sports Science Master's Program at the University of Pittsburgh. He has published 2 books, 12 book chapters and over 125 peer-reviewed journal articles on topics that include weightlifting movements and their derivatives, strength and power development, and athlete monitoring and was named the 2025 Educator of the Year through the NSCA. Dr. Suchomel is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist® with Distinction (CSCS,*D) and Registered Strength and Conditioning Coach with Distinction (RSCC*D) through the NSCA and has been recognized as a Master International Strength and Conditioning Practitioner through the International Universities Strength and Conditioning Assocation (mISCP).

Shana McKeever, MA, ATC, CSCS*D, RSCC, USAW-1, is a strength and conditioning coach at Pittsburgh Fitness Project after serving over 10 years in the high school setting. She holds a Master of Art degree in Kinesiology and Sport Studies with a concentration in Exercise Physiology and Performance from East Tennessee State University; additionally, she has contributed to research investigating weightlifting and its application to enhance sport performance and was an author in the NSCA's Guide to High School Strength and Conditioning text. She originally served the high school population as a Certified Athletic Trainer while incorporating strength and conditioning values and education before transitioning to focus on performance enhancement.

Follow Totten Training on social media: @tottentraining
and visit the Totten Training website. 

In this episode of Totten Talks, Leo is flying solo while Cait is away, giving listeners a deep dive into training philosophies drawn from decades of experience in weightlifting and coaching.

Leo shares invaluable insight into the importance of identifying and addressing your training’s limiting factors—and how discipline plays a key role in turning weaknesses into strengths. With personal stories and plenty of practical advice, Leo breaks down what it takes to build a solid foundation in the sport.

In this episode, Leo covers:

• The three pillars of weightlifting success: technique, flexibility, and strength
• How to discover and work on your “weak areas” (aka limiting factors) for well-rounded progress
• Ratio guidelines for key lifts (snatch, clean & jerk, squats) and what imbalances may indicate
• The importance of consistent technique—especially in movements like power snatches and cleans
• Stories from Leo’s training days, including lessons learned from his own weaknesses and overcoming them
• How bar path and foot pressure play a crucial role in lifting efficiency
• The value of strength-building exercises, including clean deadlifts, Romanian deadlifts (RDLs), isometrics, eccentrics, and deficit pulls
• Encouragement to prioritize the “boring” but necessary work, regardless of talent level

This episode is all about getting real with yourself as an athlete or coach, embracing honest self-assessment, and having the discipline to do what it takes to reach your potential.

Follow Totten Training on social media: @tottentraining
and visit the Totten Training website. 

In this episode of Totten Talks, Leo and Cait sit down with special guest Carissa Gordon Gump. Carissa is an Olympian, longtime friend, and a major presence in the world of weightlifting and strength and conditioning. Carissa shares her journey from starting weightlifting at age 12 to representing Team USA at the 2008 Olympic Games, and her ongoing impact within the sport.

Carissa dives into her early days, her time at the Olympic Training Center, and her transitions into leadership and coaching roles. The group also talks openly about mental struggles, such as imposter syndrome and performance anxiety, highlighting how even elite athletes face real challenges.

In this episode, Leo, Cait, and Carissa chat about:

• Carissa’s introduction to weightlifting and her journey from Vermont to the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs
• The history and growth of women’s weightlifting in the U.S., including the first women’s Olympic events and contributions from trailblazers
• The importance of community, mentorship, and representation in sports
• Mental battles like imposter syndrome and performance anxiety, and how Carissa learned to cope
• Her Olympic experience, the emotions of making the team, and what comes after that high
• Ongoing roles in the National Strength and Conditioning Association, her passion for giving back, and plans for the future
• The value of physical health, movement, and staying active for lifelong well-being

It’s an inspiring, honest conversation with valuable insights for athletes, coaches, and anyone passionate about sport!

About Carissa Gordon Gump: 

Carissa Gordon Gump has previously worked for the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee and USA Weightlifting serving as their Associate Executive Director for Business & Development as well as the USA Weightlifting Foundation Executive Director. Gump is a 2008 Olympian in the sport of weightlifting, an American Record holder, National Champion, Pan American Champion, All-American, World Team member and USA Weightlifting & New England Weightlifting Hall of Fame member. Carissa holds an B.S. in Business with an Emphasis in Sport Management from the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs, an M.P.A. in Non-Profit Management from Keller Graduate School of Management, and is pursuing a Doctor of Business Administration with an emphasis in Non-Profit Management and Leadership from Liberty University.

Follow Totten Training on social media: @tottentraining
and visit the Totten Training website. 

In this episode of Totten Talks, Leo and Cait take a deep dive into the storied history and ongoing evolution of weightlifting camps—a topic close to their hearts!

Leo shares how he got started with weightlifting camps all the way back in 1984, highlighting the role York Barbell played as a foundational location (aka "Muscle Town USA"). Cait reminisces about her own experiences at these camps, both as an athlete and coach, underscoring how impactful they have been for hundreds of lifters and coaches over the decades.

In this episode, Leo and Cait cover:

• The origins of weightlifting camps and their connection to weightlifting legends and icons
• The significance of locations like York Barbell, Millersville, and Lake Placid Olympic Training Center
• How the camp model has evolved over the years—from week-long immersive events to more flexible 2- and 3-day formats
• The dual focus on athlete AND coach development, including hands-on learning, certifications, and real-world experience
• The importance of weightlifting history and community—sharing stories, connections, and even a little camp romance!
• Why immersive, in-person experiences offer unique value compared to online learning
• Tips on how to get involved in future camps and how to host one at your own facility

Friendly reminder: If you're interested in joining a camp or want to bring one to your gym, check out tottentraining.com or get on their newsletter for the latest updates!

Follow Totten Training on social media: @tottentraining
and visit the Totten Training website. 

In this episode of Totten Talks, Leo and Cait are joined by Dr. Chris Taber—longtime friend, teammate, and the Graduate Program Director of Exercise and Sports Science at Sacred Heart University.

Chris brings a unique perspective, blending cutting-edge research with years of practical, hands-on coaching experience. The conversation is all about the intersection of sports science, coaching, and building stronger athletes—and coaches!

In this episode, Leo, Cait, and Chris cover:

• Chris’s path into sports science, from Penn State to working with Leo, to earning his doctorate at East Tennessee State University
• What “sports science” really means, how it’s different from (but connected to) exercise science and strength & conditioning
• The importance of applied sports science—bridging the gap between lab research and the real day-to-day work with athletes and coaches
• Why good mentorship matters, how to find the right mentor, and how early experiences shape coaches
• The Totten Training Mentorship Program: how it started, what it offers, and why it’s making a difference for young coaches
• The role of Olympic lifts in strength & conditioning: the pros, the challenges, and busting the myth that they’re “too hard to teach”
• How to use weightlifting movements for athletic development (vs. competing as a weightlifter)
• Advice for coaches: periodization, programming for strength and power, balancing “sport-specific” and foundational training

A fantastic listen for coaches, athletes, and anyone interested in the science (and art!) of making better athletes and building legacies.

Where to find Dr. Chris Taber:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/drchristaber/

Follow Totten Training on social media: @tottentraining
and visit the Totten Training website. 

In this episode of Totten Talks, Leo and Cait dive into the third and final part of their "Keep It Simple Seriously" series on teaching and performing the Olympic lifts. The focus is all about the jerk technique, strength, and flexibility needed to bring your lifts to the next level.

In this episode, Leo and Cait cover:

Spring weather and gardening updates—because athletes and coaches have lives outside the gym!

A step-by-step breakdown of the split jerk, including setup, dip, drive, and split positions, with practical cues and coaching tips

Common technical mistakes in the jerk and how small adjustments can make a big difference

How to identify the real cause of missed jerks (hint: it’s not always strength!)

The importance of appropriate dip speed, proper bar path, and safe weight distribution in the split

Strength requirements for the Olympic lifts—understanding how absolute strength and positional strength work together, with real-life stories and ratios as guides

The often-overlooked role of flexibility and mobility, and how both stiffness and hypermobility can limit performance

Coach-athlete communication: keeping cues simple and avoiding information overload

Promoting the importance of force absorption, not just force production, for safe and effective lifting

Leo and Cait announce an upcoming weightlifting camp where lifters of all levels can join, train, and learn in a supportive environment. Don’t miss details at tottentraining.com.

Follow Totten Training on social media: @tottentraining
and visit Totten Training. 

In this episode of Totten Talks, Leo and Cait dive into the intricacies of teaching Olympic lifts, focusing on simplifying technique for coaches and their athletes. With a light-hearted tone, they share insights and strategies drawn from years of experience in coaching and competing.

In this episode, Leo and Cait cover:

• Personal updates: Leo's family celebrations and gratitude
• Teaching Olympic lifts: Simplifying techniques and progressions
• The importance of understanding biomechanics in lifting
• Choosing between teaching the clean or snatch first
• Key positions and transitions in lifting
• Strategies for overcoming common coaching challenges
• The significance of cues and positive reinforcement in coaching

Leo and Cait emphasize making complex movements less daunting for coaches, focusing on setting a solid foundation before building up athletes' strength and flexibility. They also highlight ways to continue education through courses and upcoming events, such as weightlifting camps. This episode is a must-listen for both new and seasoned coaches aiming to refine their teaching approach in Olympic weightlifting.

Follow Totten Training on social media: @tottentraining
and visit Totten Training. 

In this episode of Totten Talks, Leo and Cait dive headfirst into episode six & introduce us to KISS. 

In this episode, Leo and Cait cover:

• The introduction of the KISS (Keep It Simple, Seriously/Silly) method for coaching.
• Why Olympic lifts provide value in sports performance and how to break lifts into teachable segments.
• The misconceptions and challenges coaches face with Olympic lifts, such as time, space, and skill level.
• The benefits of Olympic lifts, including power, flexibility, and aerobic improvements.
• Key areas to foster successful Olympic lift training: technique, strength, and flexibility.

Next month, Leo and Cait will delve deeper into tactical strategies for coaching Olympic lifts, emphasizing simplification and practicality.

Follow Totten Training on social media: @tottentraining
and visit Totten Training. 

In this episode of Totten Talks, Leo and Cait welcome their first-ever guest to the show - Phil Sabatini! 

Phil is an experienced coach, successful athlete, and father. He has made remarkable contributions to the sport of weightlifting and left a lasting impact on those around him.

In this episode, Leo and Phil discuss:

• Phil's extensive background in sports and athletics, including his achievements in high school and college football, wrestling, and baseball.
• His transition from being an athlete to becoming a dedicated coach, and his journey through different levels of coaching, from collegiate strength and conditioning to working with professional baseball teams.
• The importance of long-term athletic development and how Phil's multi-sport upbringing contributed to his success and longevity in weightlifting.
• The crucial role of mentors and coaches in Phil's career, and the influential figures who shaped his path.
• Phil's coaching philosophy, including his emphasis on culture, well-rounded training, and individualized programing for athletes.
• Insights into managing balance between training, coaching, and family life.
• Funny and motivating stories about training sessions, competitions, and handling both success and failure.

Phil's insights and experiences offer valuable lessons in dedication, passion, and the importance of having good people in your corner. Whether you're an athlete or a coach, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways!

Follow East Coast Weightlifting on social media: @eastcoastgoldwl and visit East Coast Gold. 

Follow Phil: @phillysab

Follow Totten Training on social media: @tottentraining
and visit Totten Training.