Best Hour of Their Day | Podcast

Jeremy Thiel of CrossFit Central Downtown reveals how he’s revolutionized his gym with exciting revenue-generating additions like pickleball courts, coffee meet-ups, competitions, ice baths, and saunas. These creative solutions don’t just boost income—they build an unbeatable sense of community, energize members, and create a space where fitness and connection thrive. -- 📈Want to GROW YOUR CROSSFIT AFFILIATE? ⁠Click here⁠: -- 🏋️Want to LEVEL UP YOUR COACHING? ⁠Click here⁠: -- 🧠⁠Learn more about ENLIFTED MINDSET TRAINING⁠ -- 👋 NEW HERE? HERE'S WHAT WE DO. 👇👇 We help CrossFit Coaches and Affiliate Owners make a bigger impact by focusing on what matters most: CrossFit group classes. 👉 FOR AFFILIATE OWNERS: ⁠Affiliate University⁠ Learn how to build a thriving community without having to run ads or sell specialty classes. We teach you how to develop your staff and run your gym like a business. 👉 FOR COACHES: ⁠The Knowledge⁠ Take your skills and career to the next level. Understand the methodology, sharpen your on-the-floor skills, and earn your next credential

Luke Meade reveals the steps he took to build a successful career as a full-time CrossFit Coach. From overcoming setbacks to coaching at elite gyms like Invictus Boston, he shares practical advice and lessons learned to help you turn your passion into a thriving profession. -- 📈Want to GROW YOUR CROSSFIT AFFILIATE? ⁠Click here⁠: -- 🏋️Want to LEVEL UP YOUR COACHING? ⁠Click here⁠: -- 🧠⁠Learn more about ENLIFTED MINDSET TRAINING⁠ -- 👋 NEW HERE? HERE'S WHAT WE DO. 👇👇 We help CrossFit Coaches and Affiliate Owners make a bigger impact by focusing on what matters most: CrossFit group classes. 👉 FOR AFFILIATE OWNERS: ⁠Affiliate University⁠ Learn how to build a thriving community without having to run ads or sell specialty classes. We teach you how to develop your staff and run your gym like a business. 👉 FOR COACHES: ⁠The Knowledge⁠ Take your skills and career to the next level. Understand the methodology, sharpen your on-the-floor skills, and earn your next credential

The best CrossFit coaches aren’t just skilled at movement—they’ve learned from personal struggles that have shaped their empathy and leadership. In this episode of Behind The Knowledge, Andrew Charlesworth explores how overcoming challenges fosters personal growth and builds the ability to truly connect with athletes. Discover why empathy and resilience are the foundation of exceptional coaching. -- Want to GROW YOUR CROSSFIT AFFILIATE? Click here: Want to LEVEL UP YOUR COACHING? Click here: -- 👋 New here? We help CrossFit Coaches and Affiliate Owners make a bigger impact by focusing on what matters most: CrossFit group classes. -- 👉 For Affiliate Owners: Affiliate University - Learn how to build a thriving community without having to run ads or sell specialty classes. We teach you how to develop your staff and run your gym like a business. 📈 -- 👉 For Coaches: The Knowledge - Take your skills and career to the next level. Understand the methodology, sharpen your on-the-floor skills, and earn your next credential

Ren Allen, owner of CrossFit FLxR, discusses her journey from gym member to leader. We explore the challenges she faced in raising coaching standards, overcoming resistance, and transitioning from "buddy" to "boss." Ren shares how she transformed her gym’s culture through clear processes, Coach development, and a shift from competition to a health-focused approach, offering valuable insights for Affiliate Owners everywhere. -- 📈Want to GROW YOUR CROSSFIT AFFILIATE? Click here: -- 🏋️Want to LEVEL UP YOUR COACHING? Click here: -- 🧠Learn more about ENLIFTED MINDSET TRAINING -- 👋 NEW HERE? HERE'S WHAT WE DO. 👇👇 We help CrossFit Coaches and Affiliate Owners make a bigger impact by focusing on what matters most: CrossFit group classes. 👉 FOR AFFILIATE OWNERS: Affiliate University Learn how to build a thriving community without having to run ads or sell specialty classes. We teach you how to develop your staff and run your gym like a business. 👉 FOR COACHES: The Knowledge Take your skills and career to the next level. Understand the methodology, sharpen your on-the-floor skills, and earn your next credential

Jeremy and Julie, Owners of Desert Devil CrossFit, share how systemizing processes like onboarding and member touchpoints have transformed their gym. Learn how they’ve improved retention, fostered a supportive culture, and empowered members to thrive. -- Want to GROW YOUR CROSSFIT AFFILIATE? Click here! Want to LEVEL UP YOUR COACHING? Click here! -- CLICK HERE to learn more about ENLIFTED mindset training -- 👋 New here? We help CrossFit Coaches and Affiliate Owners make a bigger impact by focusing on what matters most: CrossFit group classes. 👉 For Affiliate Owners: Affiliate University - Learn how to build a thriving community without having to run ads or sell specialty classes. We teach you how to develop your staff and run your gym like a business. 📈 👉 For Coaches: The Knowledge - Take your skills and career to the next level. Understand the methodology, sharpen your on-the-floor skills, and earn your next credential --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/besthouroftheirday/support

The key to great coaching isn’t perfection—it’s connection. In this episode of Behind the Knowledge, CrossFit coach Pat Oyston reveals how this lesson transformed his journey from overcoming depression to becoming a full-time coach. -- With over 600 videos (and new ones daily) plus guided mentorship from L4 coaches, we’re here to help you grow. 🏋️ Are you ready to LEVEL UP YOUR COACHING? 👉CLICK HERE to get started.⁠⁠⁠⁠ -- CLICK HERE TO GRAB THE FREE WORLD-CLASS COACH EVALUATION -- 0:00 - Struggling to Articulate Coaching Cues 1:03 - Pat Oyston 2:06 - Starting as a Swim Coach at 15 Years Old 5:12 - College Swimming, Injury, and Switching Careers 9:07 - A High School Coach's Life-Changing Impact 14:14 - The Challenges of Recovery After a Knee Injury 17:04 - Discovering CrossFit and Finding Purpose Again 23:35 - Lessons Learned from a Mismanaged Coaching Internship 24:48 - Joining a Supportive Gym Community at Rawson Creek 27:50 - Jason Ackerman’s Mentorship and Building Confidence 32:05 - Taking the CrossFit Level 2 and Learning to “Go Slow to Go Fast” 36:05 - Leaving a Management Role to Pursue Full-Time Coaching 39:15 - Making Coaching About the Athletes --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/besthouroftheirday/support

Elie Zeitlin of CrossFit Coney Island shares how mastering delegation transformed his gym and life. Learn how he empowered his team, optimized operations, and built a thriving community in Brooklyn. -- 🚀 Looking to BOOST REVENUE at your CrossFit Affiliate? CLICK HERE to Grab the FREE “Raise Prices Without Pissing Off Your Members” Mini-Course -- 👉 CLICK HERE to learn more about Affiliate University & BOOK A FREE 1-ON-1 CALL -- 💻 CLICK HERE to learn more about Push Press Gym Software -- 0:00 Intro 1:42 The Power of Delegating 7:00 Managing Growth in a Small Space 10:50 The First Task Elie Delegated 15:04 Creating the Perfect Day 19:32 Taking Extended Time Away from the Gym 26:39 Overcoming the Challenges of Delegation 32:48 Feedback That Builds a Strong Team 37:12 Keeping Politics Out of the Gym 41:06 Redefining Success as a Gym Owner --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/besthouroftheirday/support

In this episode of Behind the Knowledge, Pat Barber and Todd Occhiuto sit down with veteran coach Stephane Rochet to discuss his journey from collegiate strength coaching to becoming a key figure in CrossFit's growth. Stephane shares insights on building trust with athletes, learning from legends like Coach Bergener, and why CrossFit remains the gold standard for fitness. This episode is a must-listen for coaches and athletes looking to master the fundamentals and create lasting impact. -- With over 600 videos (and new ones daily) plus guided mentorship from L4 coaches, we’re here to help you grow. Are you ready to be more awesome? Click HERE to get started. -- DOWNLOAD THE FREE WORLD-CLASS COACH EVALUATION -- 0:00 - Introduction 3:52 - Stephane's Coaching Journey Begins 4:51 - First Coaching Role at UCLA 7:16 - Firehose of Learning as a New Coach 8:11 - Teaching Athletes: Fake It Till You Make It 9:27 - Discovering Coach Bergener and Olympic Lifting 14:08 - Keeping Coaching Simple Yet Effective 19:45 - First Exposure to CrossFit 22:46 - From Coaching to Police Work 24:11 - Bringing CrossFit to Police Training 25:07 - Head Strength Coach at USD 27:42 - Implementing CrossFit Principles for Athletes 35:23 - Building Trust and Culture with Athletes 38:19 - The Role of Trust in Affiliate Coaching 41:12 - Changes in CrossFit From Then to Now 48:40 - Mastering the Basics as a Coach 53:34 - Stefan’s Hopes for CrossFit’s Future 56:46 - CrossFit Gyms as Beacons of Health and Community --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/besthouroftheirday/support

Tanya Sammis, Owner of CrossFit Virilis, transformed her gym from 30 to 130 members by simplifying operations, downsizing her space, and focusing on creating an exceptional class experience. By prioritizing member retention and streamlining her offerings, Tanya built a thriving community in Cibolo, Texas, proving that less can truly be more. Her journey is an inspiring example of how focusing on the essentials can lead to explosive growth. -- 🚀 Looking to BOOST REVENUE at your CrossFit Affiliate? Grab the FREE “Raise Prices Without Pissing Off Your Members” Mini-Course -- 👉 CLICK HERE to learn more about Affiliate University & BOOK A FREE 1-ON-1 CALL -- 💻 Learn more about Push Press Gym Software -- 0:00 – Introduction 1:30 – The Journey From 30 to 130 Members 3:45 – Simplifying Gym Operations: The Key to Success 6:10 – Downsizing to Grow: Why Less is More 8:25 – Creating an Exceptional Class Experience 12:00 – Prioritizing Retention Over Expansion 15:20 – The Power of Community and Connection 18:40 – Streamlining Offerings for Member Success 22:10 – The Importance of Consistency in Coaching 25:30 – Empowering Your Team for Better Outcomes 30:00 – Lessons Learned From Mentorship and Growth 33:15 – The Role of Retention in Long-Term Gym Success 36:50 – Tanya’s “Keep Going” Philosophy --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/besthouroftheirday/support

In this episode of Behind the Knowledge, Pat Barber and Todd Occhiuto sit down with Burgener Strength Coach Cody Looney. Cody shares his journey from coaching kids’ soccer to becoming a CrossFit Affiliate Owner, military veteran, and weightlifting educator. He dives into the art of teaching Olympic lifts in CrossFit gyms, the importance of meeting athletes where they are, and how Burgener Strength is shaping the next generation of Coaches and athletes. -- With over 600 videos (and new ones daily) plus guided mentorship from L4 coaches, we’re here to help you grow. Are you ready to be more awesome? Click HERE to get started. -- FREE WORLD-CLASS COACH EVALUATION -- 0:00 Introduction 1:00 Cody’s First Coaching Experience 3:00 From Military Service to Fitness Coaching 6:00 Discovering CrossFit and the Olympic Lifts 9:00 Lessons from Burgener Strength 12:00 Teaching Olympic Lifts in CrossFit Gyms 16:00 Building a Culture of Coaching Excellence 20:00 Balancing Beginners and Advanced Lifters 25:00 Challenges and Solutions in Weightlifting Programs 30:00 The Impact of Team and Athlete Development --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/besthouroftheirday/support

Jason Fernandez and Jason Ackerman sit down with Steph Grams from CrossFit Kaneohe to discuss her inspiring journey from gym member to thriving Affiliate Owner. Steph opens up about the challenges of buying a failing gym, navigating leadership, and building a close-knit community while staying true to her vision. Don't miss this episode full of valuable lessons on resilience and leadership. -- 🚀 Looking to BOOST REVENUE at your CrossFit Affiliate? CLICK HERE to Grab the FREE “Raise Prices Without Pissing Off Your Members” Mini-Course -- 👉 CLICK HERE to learn more about Affiliate University & BOOK A FREE 1-ON-1 CALL -- 💻 CLICK HERE to learn more about Push Press Gym Software -- 0:00 Introduction 1:10 Steph Grams - CrossFit Kaneohe 2:48 From Member to Owner 5:04 Challenges of Buying a Failing Gym 8:14 Facing Fears as a Business Owner 11:03 Competitors and Staying the Course 14:01 Leveraging Gym Software 17:27 Building a Strong Coaching Team 20:24 Transitioning to Gym Mayor Role 26:00 CrossFit for Families and Kids 30:08 Preparing for the Level 4 Exam 34:24 Running a Gym in Hawaii 36:43 Staying True to Your Vision --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/besthouroftheirday/support

In this episode of Behind the Knowledge, hosts Pat Barber and Todd Occhiuto sit down with CrossFit OG and Seminar Staff veteran Mike Giardina. Mike shares his journey from the military to becoming a coach at CrossFit Atlanta, a Flowmaster on CrossFit Seminar Staff, and now a leader in CrossFit’s health initiatives. He dives into the importance of simplicity in coaching, the power of affiliate communities, and how the CrossFit Medical Society is bridging the gap between fitness and healthcare. -- With over 600 videos (and new ones daily) plus guided mentorship from L4 coaches, we’re here to help you grow. Are you ready to be more awesome? CLICK HERE to get started. -- Download the FREE WORLD-CLASS COACH EVALUATION -- 0:00 - Introduction 1:00 - Mike Giardina 3:03 - Early Days of CrossFit Coaching and Community 5:21 - First CrossFit Workout Experience 7:03 - Joining CrossFit Atlanta and Coaching Beginnings 10:22 - Becoming Seminar Staff: From Intern to Leader 14:46 - The Journey of Coaching Development 19:04 - Coaching New Athletes: Patience and Simplicity 22:43 - The Power of Simplicity in Coaching Cues 27:03 - Transitioning to Leadership in Coaching Education 34:07 - CrossFit Medical Society and Health Initiatives 37:28 - Tracking Health Markers: The Next Level of Fitness 40:49 - Connecting Health, Coaching, and Community 43:02 - Where to Learn More About CrossFit Medical Society --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/besthouroftheirday/support

Randy and Chausse Lauer, owners of 3-46 Grit CrossFit, share their journey of overcoming personal and professional challenges. Chausse opens up about surviving a stroke and how it reshaped her approach to resilience, leadership, and community building. Together, they reflect on their strategies for budgeting, streamlining operations, and creating a thriving gym while staying deeply connected to their CrossFit community. -- Looking to boost revenue at your CrossFit Affiliate? CLICK HERE Grab the FREE “Raise Prices Without Pissing Off Your Members” Mini-Course -- CLICK HERE to learn more about Affiliate University -- CLICK HERE to learn more about Push Press Gym Software -- 0:00 - Intro 0:31 - Meet Randy and Chausse Lauer 4:26 - Transitioning to Full-Time Gym Ownership 6:51 - From Construction to CrossFit 8:19 - What Randy Did Well vs. Where He Struggled 10:52 - The Power of Budgeting 15:17 - Chausse’s Stroke Story 20:25 - Recovery and Resilience 21:35 - Balancing Member Wants with Business Needs 29:16 - Doing Less, Better 32:50 - Building Legacy Through Systems 37:20 - Why the Lauers Stick with Affiliate University --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/besthouroftheirday/support

In this episode of Behind the Knowledge, Nicole Aucoin shares her journey from dietitian to nutrition coaching expert, revealing how coaches can transform lives by addressing the other 23 hours of the day. She dives into actionable strategies for creating sustainable nutrition programs, fostering accountability, and empowering clients to achieve long-term success. A must-watch for coaches ready to elevate their impact and integrate nutrition seamlessly into their gym. -- CLICK HERE TO LEVEL UP YOUR COACHING INSIDE THE KNOWLEDGE PRO⁠ -- CLICK HERE TO GRAB THE FREE WORLD-CLASS COACH EVALUATION -- CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT HSN -- 0:00 – Introduction 1:39 – Nicole’s Journey: From Dietitian to Nutrition Coach 3:48 – Early Coaching Challenges and Lessons Learned6:01 – Personal Story: How Cancer Inspired a Focus on Nutrition 9:25 – Nutrition in CrossFit: Paleo, Zone, and Finding What Works 12:20 – Starting Small: The Key to Sustainable Client Success 22:00 – Lessons from Early Mistakes in Nutrition Coaching 29:04 – How to Find and Empower the Right Nutrition Coach 35:31 – Expanding Healthy Steps Nutrition --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/besthouroftheirday/support

Brad Marshall started his CrossFit gym in a two-car garage and successfully transitioned to taking over an established affiliate. Brad shares the challenges of scaling from a small, intimate community to a thriving commercial space, the importance of building culture, and lessons learned in creating a sustainable business. Tune in to hear how passion and strategic decisions turned a garage gym into a vibrant affiliate with over 80 members. -- Looking to boost revenue at your CrossFit Affiliate? CLICK HERE to Grab the FREE “Raise Prices Without Pissing Off Your Members” Mini-Course -- CLICK HERE to learn more about Affiliate University -- CLICK HERE to learn more about Push Press Gym Software -- 0:00 - Introduction 1:12 - Meet Brad Marshall: The Story Behind Greater Culture CrossFit 3:02 - Garage Beginnings: Building a Gym Community at Home 6:07 - The Garage Gym Setup: Growth, Challenges, and Creative Solutions 7:28 - Taking Over an Affiliate: Navigating the Transition Process 9:56 - Growing Membership: From 30 Members to Over 80 in 7 Months 13:00 - Establishing Culture: The Role of Communication and Connection 19:00 - Rebranding and Renovating: Creating a Fresh Start for Members 22:40 - Pricing Adjustments: Managing Member Expectations and Revenue 29:10 - Programming Changes: Shifting to a New Coaching Philosophy 35:10 - Building a Thriving Culture: Language, Leadership, and Community 39:03 - Reflecting on Growth: Lessons Learned from Garage to Affiliate --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/besthouroftheirday/support

After suffering a life-threatening heart attack, Andy Hendel’s decades of fitness and commitment to CrossFit played a crucial role in his survival and recovery. From his time in the NFL to coaching on CrossFit Seminar Staff, Andy’s resilience and fitness prepared him to overcome the odds. His story is a powerful testament to how a lifestyle of health and movement can save lives. -- CLICK HERE TO LEVEL UP YOUR COACHING INSIDE THE KNOWLEDGE PRO⁠ -- CLICK HERE TO UNLOCK THE FREE WORLD-CLASS COACH EVALUATION -- 0:00 - Introduction 0:40 - Meet Andy Hendel 3:00 - The Early Coaching Journey and Lessons Learned 7:10 - Discovering CrossFit and Starting an Affiliate 12:00 - Building CrossFit Charlotte: The Early Days 16:45 - Transitioning from Athlete to Coach 23:00 - The Importance of Lifelong Learning in Coaching 33:00 - The Day Everything Changed: Andy’s Heart Attack Story 39:15 - How Fitness and CrossFit Helped Andy Survive 43:00 - Recovery and Getting Back to the Gym 46:50 - Life Lessons and Advice After a Heart Attack 51:00 - Inspiring Others Through Resilience and Coaching --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/besthouroftheirday/support

Thinking about buying an Ice Barrel for your gym? This video breaks down the pros, cons, and business impact of adding cold therapy to your gym's recovery services. Learn how to maximize the benefits for your members while deciding if it’s the right investment for your Affiliate. -- Looking to boost revenue at your CrossFit Affiliate? Grab the FREE “Raise Prices Without Pissing Off Your Members” Mini-Course -- CLICK HERE to learn more about Affiliate University -- CLICK HERE to learn more about Push Press Gym Software -- CLICK HERE to learn more about Ice Barrel and cold therapy --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/besthouroftheirday/support

This episode of Behind the Knowledge dives into the inspiring journey of Coach Josh Melendez, from his early days as a novice CrossFit coach to earning a Level 4 credential and joining CrossFit Seminar Staff. Through resilience, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of feedback and education, Josh shares valuable lessons on overcoming challenges, building trust, and becoming a leader in the coaching world. -- LEVEL UP YOUR COACHING INSIDE THE KNOWLEDGE PRO⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.besthouroftheirday.com/theknowledge⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ -- FREE WORLD-CLASS COACH EVALUATION https://www.besthouroftheirday.com/world-class-coach-evaluation -- 0:00 - Introduction 0:55 - osh Melendez: Level 4 Coach and Seminar Staff 5:09 - First Coaching Experience: From Athlete to Leader 6:22 - The Impact of the CrossFit Level 1 Certification 8:18 - Becoming a Gym Owner: Transitioning from Coach to Business Leader 9:54 - Deep Dive into Coaching Education and Online Courses 11:02 - Key Takeaways from the CrossFit Level 2 Certification 13:19 - Restructuring Programming and Gaining Athlete Trust 17:02 - Continuous Learning: Online Courses, Certifications, and Mentorship 21:08 - The Road to the CrossFit Level 3 Credential 25:03 - Internship Challenges and Lessons with Seminar Staff 29:10 - Overcoming Feedback and Building Resilience 33:09 - Achieving the CrossFit Level 4 Credential 34:48 - Joining Seminar Staff: The Reward of Persistence 38:18 - Building a Culture of Development with Coaching Staff 42:26 - Final Reflections: The Power of Perseverance and Leading by Example --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/besthouroftheirday/support

Fern dives into the "3 Essential Questions" every CrossFit Affiliate Owner must answer to build a successful gym. These foundational questions help clarify your business purpose, define the game you’re playing, and ensure you’re on the right track for long-term growth. Discover how addressing these critical points can close the strategy gap and set your affiliate up to thrive. -- Grab the “Raise Prices Without Pissing Off Your Members” Mini-Course -- BOOK A FREE CALL & LEARN HOW TO GROW YOUR AFFILIATE https://www.besthouroftheirday.com/affiliate-university -- LEARN MORE ABOUT PUSH PRESS GYM SOFTWARE https://www.pushpress.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/besthouroftheirday/support

Jason and Fern dive into the topic of gym rate increases, covering why they’re essential for sustainable growth and how to approach them effectively. They share insights on preparing members, communicating value, and navigating potential pushback to help CrossFit Affiliate Owners successfully implement price changes without losing community support. This discussion provides actionable strategies for Affiliate Owners to increase rates confidently while improving the overall member experience. -- ⁠CLICK HERE to grab the “Raise Prices Without Pissing Off Your Members” Mini-Course⁠ -- Learn more about Affiliate Universityhttps://www.besthouroftheirday.com/affiliate-university -- Learn more about Push Press Gym Softwarehttps://www.pushpress.com -- 0:00 - Introduction 1:21 - The inevitability of raising rates in business 5:02 - Low-ticket versus high-ticket pricing strategies 10:14 - Addressing members on grandfathered rates 16:02 - Recognizing members who support a rate increase silently 18:52 - Keeping up with operating expenses as a reason for rate increases 23:22 - Covering costs for staff, systems, and fulfillment 25:57 - Why value-added improvements make rate increases logical 30:22 - Communication strategies for a smooth rate increase 32:56 - Addressing members’ concerns about increased rates in person 34:36 - Ideal lead time for notifying members about rate changes 37:11 - Real-life scenario: gym acquisition challenges due to poor finances 41:02 - Adapting to uncontrollable external changes in business 46:45 - Strategies for handling member feedback on rate increases --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/besthouroftheirday/support