Uncharted Performance

According to the statistics, it is rather unlikely that any one of us will be involved in an active shooter situation. However, if and when it should happen, will we be prepared? Episode 16 of Uncharted Performance is an honest discussion with Aaron Jannetti of Endeavor Defense and Fitness regarding the realities of violence and our capabilities to respond during hostile incidents. We also discuss the pursuit of mental and physical preparedness through martial arts, Olympic weightlifting, CrossFit, and the benefit of studying and practicing a variety of modalities to develop a well rounded individual, athlete, and coach.

Lead an active lifestyle? Weekend warrior? Desk Jockey? CrossFitter? By not taking simple and consistent steps to take care of ourselves we are adding unnecessary stress and pressure on our nervous systems. For Episode 15 of Uncharted Performance we have the opportunity to find out how to counteract the damage incurred by our bodies due to training, improper movement, and sometimes negligence. In our conversation with Dr. Erik Peters of Precision Active Health we cover how we should be moving, different methods to balance and correct poor adaptations, how with the help of a chiropractor we can address restrictions to free up joints and soft tissues, as well as what techniques we can employ ourselves to regain optimal movement.

How often do you question your coach, boss, mentor, or any other authority figure? Probably not enough, if ever. There is often an underlying assumption that whenever we're given something to complete, be it a workout or a project, that there is an underlying basis for that task. But what is it and why? Enter Tom Rini of Black Flag Athletics for Episode 14 of Uncharted Performance. A highly accomplished veteran of the Strength and Conditioning game, Tom provides extensive insight to help us understand what we should be doing in the gym along with the foundational principles of why we are doing it. We shed light on appropriate movement patterns, how they are to be corrected and enhanced, how we can break through the limitations of CrossFit, and how as coaches we can prepare our athletes for success. Start asking, start questioning, start with why!

We are constantly on the go, bombarded by information left and right. Stressors attack us from every angle. How can we cope? Most often, we don't. We allow the friction of externalities to dictate our behavior, relationships, and performance. The one thing that allows us to properly engage and respond is rarely actively engaged and trained to manage the numerous and various internal and external forces pulling at us. Yes, the practice of mindfulness and meditation is a skill. Ofosu Born Jones-Quartey of Born I Music, takes us on a profound journey in Episode 13 as we challenge ourselves to be present. As a hip-hop artist, entrepreneur, teacher, husband and father, he is not short on responsibilities. Ofosu's approach and implementation of mindfulness and meditation allows the layperson to relate to and adopt this impactful tool. It can contribute to greater overall performance, be it on stage, in the arena, at the office, or simply improve day to day interaction with friends, family, loved ones, and coworkers. Remove the clutter from your life, find your purpose and embrace the present.

When is it finally time to make a change? It wasn’t until his 40’s that Bill Russell had enough. The compounding effect of not paying attention to his decisions and behaviors took a toll on his physical appearance and wallet. He turned it around with CrossFit and started helping others improve their lifestyles as well. How? Find out in this interview. You are never too old or too young to start taking care of yourself and doing something that will leave a positive effect on your health and well being. Let that time be now. Watch or listen to Episode 12 of Uncharted Performance with Bill Russell of CrossFit Cleveland as we discuss the heyday of CrossFit, building a community, defining your personality and focus as a facility, developing and improving members as well as finding what is right for you, just to name a few. Prepare for change!

Are we starting with the right questions? For Episode 11 we are joined by former United States Marine, movement and endurance training expert, running coach, creator of IRONWill, and an absolutely all around great person, Ryan Speed. We dive right into his background and how he developed his passion for running. Ryan's journey led him to discover a different approach to endurance training; one that he enthusiastically shares with others. Our discussion covers developing the skill for human movement, regaining balance, showing runners how to be strong and how it benefits them, as well as how endurance training can benefit those who are not so keen on running. Ryan's knowledge and experience are only surpassed by his heart, enthusiasm, generosity, and willingness to share his love with others. Join us for this episode and get inspired to live beyond the norm!

Hockey is an exceptionally tough sport. Of the big four, it is arguably the most dangerous sport to play due to it's very physical nature and the speed at which it is played. Making it to the pro-level is a great accomplishment in itself, but what if you're not the next Tyler Seguin or Vladimir Tarasenko? If you pay attention and prepare accordingly, the game of hockey is full of lessons, both inside and outside the rink; it is the perfect arena in which to hone and develop your skills for after and outside the game. Meet Brandon and Jarred Smith of Nooma, a lifestyle brand focusing on healthy living and an active lifestyle. In Episode 10 of Uncharted Performance, learn how these two gentlemen took advantage of their hockey careers and set out on a business evolution. From identifying a personal need and moonlighting as sideprenuers to moving out their Craigslist office into a brand new warehouse facility to house their expanding operations, let them take you on a "journey to the ultimate you".

No matter how far along you are in your strength journey, sooner or later you will hit a plateau - it's an undisputed fact of life. Sorry. Now time to get over it and who better to get you to bust through that plateau than the owner of one of the strongest, if not the strongest gym in Northeast Ohio. Mark Valenti, the co-owner of Blind Dog Gym, has over 20 years experience competing in the Highland Games and Strongman competitions, and is one of the top masters athletes in both sports. In Episode 9 of Uncharted Performance we learn how Mark has been able to compete at such a high level in both sports for such a long time. We also discuss his mentors and their influence on his coaching philosophy as he develops the strength in his athletes and clients. The culture at Blind Dog is one that cuts through the bullshit of the fitness industry to foster true strength development through working your butt off and sheer desire to be better. Be sure to watch out for an Uncharted exclusive as Mark lets us in on the meaning behind Hoist the Black. Time to BE SAVAGE!

Episode 8 of Uncharted Performance brings you Chelsea Kyle, who is not only an elite female weightlifter but is also a fantastic coach at Project Lift. We discuss topics ranging from the leadership philosophy she follows (shout out to Simon Sinek), the value of patience, and to the way she tailors her coaching style to fit male and female athletes. Chelsea brings an extremely positive attitude, tons of energy and irreplaceable personal experience in discussing her injuries, recovery process, breaking bad habits, and coaching athletes through the struggles of being weightlifters. Make the right decision and listen to the "Overlord" :)

Are you ready to step outside the established dogma and become a better athlete, coach, and person? For Episode 7 of Uncharted Performance we are joined by one of the top Olympic Weightlifting coaches in the country, Drew Dillon, co-founder of both Project Lift and the Weightlifting League. Drew provides us with a refreshing look on how to become a better coach and how Olympic Weightlifting can be a great tool to prepare an individual for life outside the confines of a gym. We discuss the importance of continued development as both coach and athlete, letting go of what you know or think is right, being comfortable to ask why, fixing root causes versus addressing symptoms, building self-belief, breaking mental barriers, and being inspired by the unlikeliest of experiences. Strap in and enjoy the show!