Strong By Design Podcast
Team CriticalBench
- 1 hour 16 minutesEp 417 - Is “Pickleball Shoulder” the New Tennis Elbow? ft. Coach Zach Zenios & Andy Tzinberg
In this special episode of the Strong by Design Podcast, host Coach Chris Wilson sits down with Coach Zach Zenios, creator of Ageless Shoulders, and Coach Andy Tzinberg, a seasoned pickleball instructor, for an eye-opening discussion about shoulder health and longevity on the court.
Together, they explore why pickleball has exploded in popularity—especially among players over 50—and the hidden toll it can take on your body if you’re not prepared.
You’ll discover what makes pickleball so addictive, the real reason so many players develop shoulder pain, and how small daily habits can make or break your performance. Coach Zach breaks down the concept of Frozen Blood Flow and explains why dynamic movement—not rest or ice—is the secret to lasting joint health. Coach Andy shares practical insights from his years coaching players of all levels, including smart warm-up strategies and techniques to avoid repetitive stress.
Stay tuned as the conversation dives into the power of Indian Club training and how the Ageless Shoulders program is helping players restore mobility, strength, and confidence—so they can keep playing the game they love, pain-free, for years to come.
Time Stamps
00:46 — Welcome to the Strong by Design podcast!
01:19 — Host Chris Wilson with special guests: Coaches Zach Zenios & Andy Tzinberg
01:58 — What you’ll uncover in today’s episode
03:20 — Get to know Coach Zach & Coach Andy
06:25 — Why pickleball is exploding and what draws people in
10:59 — Pickleball rating system… decoded
14:28 — How Andy went from the classroom to the pickleball court
16:22 — Inside Coach Zach’s daily routine
21:10 — What really attracts people to pickleball
24:58 — Smart strategies for managing repetitive stress
28:40 — One thing you should never forget before playing
33:32 — Secrets to staying injury-free and performing at your peak
41:25 — Hear Andy’s first-ever Indian Club experience
45:13 — Tips for anyone struggling with body pain
49:25 — What really happens when we stop moving dynamically?
53:44 — What’s the most dominant motion in pickleball?
58:18 — How do you train to truly get better?
01:04:19 — Surprising ways Indian Clubs reshape your body and movement
01:09:15 — Andy opens up about how the game transforms people’s lives
01:11:46 — How Ageless Shoulders can help you—revealed here!
01:13:26 — Curious about the Ageless Shoulders program?
01:14:39 — Please share and leave ratings & reviews for the Strong by Design podcast!
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10 December 2025, 11:00 am - 40 minutes 47 secondsEp 416 Are you a GIVER or a TAKER? [Thanksgiving Special]
In this special Thanksgiving episode, Coach Chris Wilson dives into the timeless ideas from Adam Grant’s bestselling book Give and Take — exploring how gratitude, generosity, and giving back can transform not just your relationships, but your success and happiness as well.
As the world slows down for the holiday, this is the perfect time to reflect on who’s helped you get where you are, and how you can pour back into others. Chris breaks down the three types of people — Givers, Takers, and Matchers — and shares how adopting a giver’s mindset can multiply your impact without burning out.
You’ll hear insights on:
- How gratitude fuels generosity — and how giving deepens gratitude.
- The difference between selfless and “otherish” giving (and why one sustains you while the other drains you).
- Why leading with generosity creates stronger relationships, richer opportunities, and lasting fulfillment.
- How to make Thanksgiving more than a holiday — but a habit of the heart.
Chris also shares practical ways to live these ideas daily — from small acts of kindness to building a gratitude and giving practice that rewires how you lead, live, and love.
This is a heartfelt reminder that success isn’t just about what you get — it’s about what you give. Because when you give first, everyone wins.
Share it with a friend, family member, or teammate who’s made a difference in your life. Let them know how much they matter — that’s the real spirit of Thanksgiving.
Time Stamps
00:55 – Welcome to the 'Strong by Design' podcast
01:19 – Join Chris Wilson for a special solo episode
04:00 – What this episode is all about
07:14 – A book that changed Chris’s perspective
09:28 – Discover the three types of people in life
13:45 – Unlocking the concept of 'Otherish Giving'
18:31 – How generosity drives long-term impact
21:35 – Connecting it all to Thanksgiving
24:29 – The power of being in a state of gratitude
28:00 – Simple ways to show thankfulness every day
31:09 – The ripple effect: small actions, big impact
33:35 – A powerful, heartfelt reflection from Chris
1:09:42 – Please share and leave ratings & reviews for the SBD podcast!Resources:
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26 November 2025, 11:00 am - 1 hour 10 minutesEp 415 Elite Athlete Secrets: Recovery, Longevity & Concussion Rehab ft. Ben Velazquez
Today on Strong By Design, we’re joined by Ben Velazquez, an award-winning strength and conditioning coach and one of the nation’s top experts in concussion recovery and corrective movement.
As the founder of Grey Matters Sports Group, Ben has worked with elite athletes from the MLB, NFL, and NHL — including legends like Mariano Rivera and Connor McDavid — helping them recover from injuries, correct imbalances, and extend their careers.
In this episode, Ben shares the science behind his five-tier concussion recovery system, reveals the most common movement imbalances that lead to injury, and explains how small corrections can create major performance breakthroughs. He also discusses what separates good athletes from great ones and why understanding the brain-body connection is essential for true athletic longevity.
If you want to move better, stay injury-free, and perform at your best for years to come, you will not want to miss this conversation.
Learn more about Ben’s work at benvelazquez.com
Time Stamps
01:02 – Welcome to the 'Strong by Design' podcast
02:42 – Join Coach Chris along with our special guest Ben Velazquez
04:00 – Sharing memories with their old friend & mentor Ben Prentiss
07:42 – Ben's memorable success from working with a pro athlete
11:47 – What inspired a career as a strength coach & movement specialist?
17:55 – What your body needs before getting stronger
23:53 – Comparing force production: Pro football vs Pro hockey
24:05 – #1 issue Ben sees with older high-level athletes
27:14 – Strength blueprint: Steps before targeting a body part
29:51 – Sharing insights about various elite athletes
45:24 – How teams and athletes often misjudge concussions or injuries
51:27 – Key factors to perform at your highest level
55:20 – What causes early retirement among athletes?
1:00:27 – Spotting and addressing concussions early in Youth sports
1:06:02 – The importance of combining postural and movement training
1:08:38 – Stay connected beyond the episode with Ben Velazquez
1:09:42 – Please share and leave ratings & reviews for the SBD podcastResources:
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12 November 2025, 11:00 am - 48 minutes 21 secondsEp 414 Are We Living in the End Times? ft. Mike Westerdal & Jared Haley
When you look at what’s happening in the world today—wars, division, moral confusion—it’s hard not to wonder: Are we in the end times?
In this compelling and timely episode, hosts Jared Haley and Mike Westerdal dive into the fascinating world of Biblical prophecy and what Scripture says about the signs of the end. Drawing from the Book of Revelation, the teachings of Jesus, and other prophetic passages, they explore how ancient words may connect to the realities of our modern world—from global politics and technology to cultural shifts that blur the line between good and evil.
While opinions and interpretations vary, Jared and Mike’s goal isn’t to predict dates or feed fear—it’s to encourage awareness, faith, and readiness. Through clear, relatable discussion, they unpack complex theological ideas like the “mark of the beast,” the rebuilding of the Jewish temple, and the symbolism of the red heifer in a way that’s easy to follow and thought-provoking for believers and seekers alike. They also discuss how the Bible’s references to wars, rumors of wars, moral decay, and the rise of global governance might resonate with today’s headlines.
Most importantly, this conversation reminds listeners that Jesus’ message was never about fear, but about faithfulness, urgency, and hope. As Jared and Mike emphasize, no one knows the day or hour—but we are called to be ready. This episode challenges listeners to stay awake, stand firm, and live with purpose in uncertain times by following Christ boldly, sharing the Gospel, and living prepared for His return.
Time Stamps
00:16 – Welcome to the 'Strong by Design' podcast
00:40 - Join hosts Mike Westerdal & Jared Haley for today's special episode
01:10 - What exactly do people mean by 'End Times'?
04:45 - The unmistakable signs: Are we living in the last days?
05:55 – Diving into the Book of Revelation
12:22 - Unpacking the Biblical significance of the Third Shrine
19:00 – Uncovering the meaning of the Red Heifer in prophecy
23:50 - The dangers of the last days
29:53 - The true meaning of the Parable of the Ten Virgins
33:20 - In these last days, who will stand for the great commission?
39:55 - What is Christ’s 1,000-Year Reign?
45:13 - This episode's challenge: Read the Word!Resources:
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29 October 2025, 10:00 am - 55 minutes 21 secondsEp 413 The Comeback King: Preston Ely on Purpose Beyond Possessions [Part 2]
In Part 2 of this powerful conversation, Coach Chris Wilson continues his heartfelt discussion with Preston Ely, founder of Comeback Kings, diving even deeper into what it means to live a life of true purpose and faith.
Together, they unpack the struggles men face when measuring their worth by worldly standards and reveal how genuine strength comes only through surrender and identity in Christ.
Preston opens up about his biggest obsession, the birth of Comeback Kings, and how faith and success can coexist when Jesus remains at the center. Chris and Preston also explore the power of simplicity, the meaning of real character, and how doing good impacts the world around us.
The episode closes with a moving prayer and reflection — a reminder that we are all clay in the hands of the ultimate Maker, being shaped for His glory.
Time Stamps
00:53 – Welcome to the 'Strong by Design' podcast!
01:17 – In Part 2, Coach Chris continues his candid and insightful discussion with special guest Preston Ely
05:33 – Years ago, what really measured a man’s worth?
08:43 – Preston’s biggest obsession revealed
14:14 – Success and faith: Can the two truly co-exist?
17:40 – The origin of Comeback Kings
20:46 – Learn the 7 core values of Critical Bench
25:03 – Understanding the two seasons of life
31:06 – Would you rather be a caricature of a character or have real character?
34:36 – Preston shares what physical fitness truly means to him
39:30 – How doing good changes the world around you
42:45 – Why simplicity speaks volumes
47:10 – Chris on the powerful biblical Claymaker story (Romans 9:19-23)
51:10 – Stay connected beyond the episode with Preston Ely
52:33 – A moment of reflection: closing prayer by Chris
53:56 – Please share and leave ratings & reviews for the SBD podcast!Resources:
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18 October 2025, 10:00 am - 1 hour 2 minutesEp 412 The Comeback King: Preston Ely on Purpose Beyond Possessions [Part 1]
In this powerful episode of Strong By Design, Coach Chris Wilson sits down with Preston Ely, founder of Comeback Kings, to talk about the journey every man faces between worldly success and spiritual surrender.
Together, they unpack what happens when chasing money, fame, and achievement leaves you empty at the top — and how true peace and identity are only found in Christ.
From deep personal stories to hard-won lessons about purpose, loss, and reconciliation, Chris and Preston dive into what it means to be stripped of everything so God can rebuild you stronger in spirit.
Whether you’re struggling with success, faith, or finding real meaning in life, this conversation will challenge and inspire you to put Jesus at the center of it all.
Stay tuned for Part 2 of this powerful and deeply personal conversation – coming out Saturday, October 18th!
Time Stamps
00:55 – Welcome to the 'Strong by Design' podcast!
01:45 – Join Coach Chris, along with our special guest, Preston Ely
04:20 – Chris and Preston share about their kids’ hobbies
06:39 – Why engage kids early with things they are passionate about
09:44 – What happened when the success ceased?
16:33 – Conscious vs Subconscious goals: Which one drives you?
21:10 – Is technology making the world a better place?
23:00 – Preston shares his biggest regret
25:18 – Learn the key to genuine reconciliation
29:00 – Should we just sin so that grace may abound?
31:01 – Chris's most vulnerable childhood moment
35:00 – Story of hope in darkest times
40:00 – How to have a real conversation with God
48:42 – What to look for in a mentor
52:27 – Discover our connection to each other through God
54:56 – Know the true value of community
56:40 – How to handle your highest highs and lowest lows
1:00:30 – Please share and leave ratings & reviews for the SBD podcast!Resources:
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15 October 2025, 10:00 am - 45 minutes 45 secondsEp 411 The 411 on Men’s Strength & Health ft. Coach Chris Wilson
If you’re a man who wants to stay strong, lean, and full of vitality as the years stack up, this episode is for you.
Back in the day, 411 was the number you dialed to get the info you needed fast. In this special Episode 411, Coach Chris Wilson delivers the real 411 every man must know about strength, testosterone, mobility, nutrition, and mindset.
This isn’t fluff. It’s the raw truth about:
- The 411 on testosterone — why it matters and how to keep it optimized naturally
- The 411 on strength after 40 — the smartest way to train for muscle, power, and longevity
- The 411 on mobility — the secret weapon for staying pain-free and in the game
- The 411 on nutrition — simple, no-nonsense strategies that fuel energy and performance
- The 411 on mindset — building discipline, confidence, and drive that carry over into every area of life
You’ll walk away with the essential knowledge that men in their 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond must hear if they want to stay at the top of their game.
This is the episode you’ll want to bookmark and share with a brother, because every man deserves to have the 411 on his health, strength, and future.
Time Stamps
00:29 – Welcome to the 'Strong by Design' podcast!
00:53 – Join host Chris Wilson for today’s special solo episode
03:37 – What is the #1 Thing Men should be mindful of?
06:12 – High vs. Low testosterone: What you need to know
10:07 – How training changes as you age
17:03 – The 411 on Mobility and Injury Prevention
21:33 – Aches and pains: What to do
25:14 – The 411 on Nutrition for Vitality
34:29 – Mindset and Discipline essentials
38:50 – Replace ONE bad habit with ONE good habit
42:00 – Final thoughts to apply the '411 tips' in your life!
43:30 – Please share and leave ratings & reviews for the SBD podcast!Resources:
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1 October 2025, 10:00 am - 1 hour 35 secondsRest in Peace Charlie Kirk [Special Bonus Edition]
In this special episode of the Strong By Design Podcast, we come together not only as co-workers but as brothers in Christ, as husbands, and as fathers. We reflect on the shocking assassination of Charlie Kirk — a man whose voice and convictions inspired millions and whose absence is deeply felt.
Regardless of political beliefs, every life is made in God’s image. The tragic loss of a husband and father should never be mocked or celebrated. In our conversation, we share personal thoughts and emotions about what this moment means for our families, our communities, our nation, and the world.
We discuss:
The value of life and the human cost of this tragedy.
The danger of silencing speech with violence.
How attempts to destroy a messenger can only amplify the message.
The state of our nation in a culture of division and unrest.
Our responsibility as Christian men to lead our families and communities with faith, courage, and unity.
This episode is not about politics, but about people, faith, and the call to stand boldly for truth in difficult times. Join us as we honor Charlie Kirk’s life, pray for his family, and reflect on the greater meaning of this moment.
Time Stamps:
coming soon...
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24 September 2025, 10:00 pm - 34 minutes 26 secondsEp 410 Hearing God’s Voice: Learning to Listen and Follow ft. Jared Haley
In this episode of the Strong by Design Podcast, host Jared Haley explores how we can truly hear and recognize God’s voice in our lives.
Jesus said in John 10:27, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” So, what does it mean to know His voice—and how do we learn to listen?
Jared shares his personal journey of growing up in the Friends (Quaker) church, where he learned to discern the Holy Spirit’s leading in a community setting. This episode is a powerful look at spiritual listening, communal discernment, and how every believer can grow in their ability to follow Jesus more closely.
Don’t miss this encouraging and insightful conversation—your faith walk will be better for it.
Time Stamps
0:45 - Welcome to the 'Strong by Design' podcast!
03:22 - Host Jared Haley reveals how to begin hearing God
07:41 - Right or wrong? How to navigate life's gray areas as a Christian
09:14 - Jared on hearing the Holy Spirit in a community of believers
14:40 - Why no man should rule over your faith
15:56 - The power of waiting on the Holy Spirit
20:49 - Presence in the Midst: What it truly means to hear God’s voice
24:24 - Different ways God speaks to us
27:10 - Christian meditation vs. worldly meditation
32:07 - Jared's challenge: What is the Spirit saying to you today?Resources:
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17 September 2025, 10:00 am - 1 hour 16 minutesEp 409 How to Fix Insulin Resistance and Take Control of Your Blood Sugar ft. Dr Boz (Annette Bosworth, MD)
Most people don’t realize it, but one of the simplest ways to understand your overall health is by tracking your blood sugar. In this eye-opening conversation, Dr. Boz, Annette Bosworth, MD and I dive into why blood glucose monitoring—and especially using a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM)—can give you a clear picture of how your body is functioning.
From energy crashes to long-term chronic disease, blood sugar plays a bigger role in your health than you may think. And the best part? You don’t need to be a scientist to make sense of it.
We break it down in a way anyone can understand—engaging, thought-provoking, and sprinkled with a bit of humor—so you’ll walk away with practical insights you can actually use.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
- Why insulin resistance is at the root of so many modern health struggles.
- How tracking your blood sugar (even with a simple monitor) can transform your health decisions.
- The surprising link between everyday choices and your long-term risk for chronic disease.
- Why CGMs aren’t just for diabetics—they’re a powerful tool for anyone serious about health.
- Simple, actionable tips to start taking control of your blood sugar today.
Time Stamps
01:01 – Welcome to the 'Strong by Design' podcast!
02:21 – Meet today’s special guest, Dr. Boz (Annette Bosworth, MD)
03:30 – What happened during the first days in Florida
07:33 – Finding better health in the 21st century
12:16 – Why knowing more about our bodies hasn’t made us healthier
13:50 – Learn more about blood sugar and why it matters
18:15 – Know the real threshold for diabetes
21:15 – Why the insulin resistance problem is so hard
27:39 – The hidden reason behind “it’s not working”
31:21 – Discover the role of muscle mass
34:54 – The healthy range for ketones revealed
38:45 – What Chris learned from fasting in the past
45:12 – Revisiting Dr. Boz’s very first appearance
46:22 – Everything you need to know about CGM
51:34 – What healthy eating really looks like
56:55 – Foods that secretly spike your sugar
59:58 – Inside the 21-Day Metabolic Kick
1:06:43 – Why you might be having health issues
1:09:37 – Stay connected beyond the episode with Dr. Boz
1:14:00 – Please share and leave ratings & reviews for the SBD podcast!Resources:
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3 September 2025, 4:00 pm - 1 hour 14 minutesEp 408 Ageless Shoulders: Restoring Strength & Stability the Ancient Way ft. Zach Zenios
In this episode of the Strong By Design podcast, Coach Chris Wilson sits down with Coach Zach Zenios—licensed neurosomatic therapist, yoga instructor, US Marine and lifelong movement coach—to talk all things shoulder health, healing, and Indian clubs.
We kick things off by exploring Zach’s unique background and the origin of his passion for Indian club training. From the anatomy of the human shoulder to the difference between raw strength and true functionality, Zach breaks down what most people get wrong about shoulder training.
He also shares his personal “2-step formula” for shoulder pain relief, plus the overlooked connection between relaxation, barefoot training, and nervous system reset. Around the 30-minute mark, we get into aesthetics, movement quality, and how club training actually builds a more capable, athletic-looking body.
As the conversation deepens, Zach opens up about the creation of the Ageless Shoulders program, what makes it different, and why Indian clubs offer a timeless solution for stiff, aging joints. We even dive into his bold personal experiments—like dry fasting—and how they’ve impacted his recovery, energy, and mindset. Whether you’re in pain, getting older, or just want to train smarter, this episode delivers the knowledge and inspiration to help you move, feel, and live better.
Time Stamps
0:43 - Welcome to the 'Strong by Design' podcast!
3:02 - Get to know today's special guest, neurosomatic therapist and yoga coach Zach Zenios
10:00 - The power of Indian club training
12:32 - How unique the human shoulder is
16:07 – The importance of good dynamic movement
18:24 - Coach Zach reveals his Indian clubs training secret
21:30 - Discover the right way to train shoulders - no isolation!
25:22 - Are you strong or just muscular?
28:50 - Aesthetic gains through club training
32:33 – Understanding relaxation vs. tension
37:02 – Why Indian clubs offer unique benefits
42:00 – Pros and cons of doing a dead hang
44:53 - What's the 2-step formula for shoulder pain
47:48 – How going barefoot can benefit you
49:39 - Why consistency is the key
51:42 – A closer look at Coach Zach’s routine
57:38 – Beyond the basics: Detailed Indian club benefits
1:03:48 – Inside the Ageless Shoulders program
1:09:13 – Coach Zach’s experience with a 5-day dry fast
1:11:58 - How to stay connected with Coach Zach
1:12:28 - Please share and leave ratings & reviews for the SBD podcast!Resources:
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