Explore every episode of the podcast Social Kick • Swim Culture & Stories

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to SUBSCRIBE and SHARE with a friend!

French backstroker Yohann Ndoye-Brouard joins Social Kick to share his journey from growing up in Annecy with his mom as head coach, to breaking onto the world stage and winning Olympic bronze at the Paris 2024 Games.

He opens up about hitting the wall in the Tokyo Olympic semifinal, dealing with racist backlash online, pursuing a physical therapy career alongside elite swimming, his infamous kicking struggles, and his goal of becoming Olympic champion in LA 2028

Sponsors:

🛒 Elsmore Swim Shop — https://elsmoreswim.com/socialkick

👕 Tall Slim Tees — https://tallslimtees.com | Code SOCIALKICK for 20% off

Connect With Our Guest:

https://www.instagram.com/yoyo.2911/

🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.

📱 Follow us on Instagram: @socialkickswim

🌐 Visit us at www.socialkickswim.com

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to SUBSCRIBE and SHARE with a friend!

Burnout. Origin stories. World Championship trials.

Anna Peplowski, Skyler Smith, and Isabelle Stadden sit down for their most real conversation yet.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The reality of burnout and how to push through it

• What it really takes to come back from three weeks of racing

• The origin stories that shaped who they are as athletes

• Why short course meters breaks even the best swimmers

• The training sets that test your limits

• What Westmont offers and what's next

Sponsors:

🛒 Elsmore Swim Shop — ElsmoreSwim.com | Code SOCIALKICK for 20% off

👕 Tall Slim Tees — TallSlimTees.com | Code SOCIALKICK for 20% off

Connect With our Hosts:

https://www.instagram.com/skylerasmithhh/

https://www.instagram.com/isabellestadden/

https://www.instagram.com/anna_peplowski/

Connect With Social Kick:

🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts

📱 Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socialkickswim/

🌐 Visit us at www.socialkickswim.com 

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to SUBSCRIBE and SHARE with a friend!

In this episode of Season Pass, Skyler Smith, Isabelle Stadden, and Anna Peplowski reunite to recap a packed week of swimming. Anna calls in from Astana, Kazakhstan, wrapping up the World Cup circuit after stops in Baku and Tashkent. She shares stories from the road, including a scary hospital visit in Uzbekistan and going a best time in the 200 free.

Meanwhile, Skyler and Isabelle are at UVA for the Virginia Pro-Am, a low-pressure short course meters meet ahead of World Short Course Championship trials. The trio breaks down their training weeks and what it feels like to race deep in the grind of "Rocktober."

The conversation shifts to the College Swimming League, where they recap recent matches, marvel at fast early-season swims, and debate whether the league should expand next year. They wrap up with meet-day superstitions and post-meet meal cravings before signing off.

Sponsors:

🛒 Elsmore Swim Shop — ElsmoreSwim.com | Code SOCIALKICK for 20% off

👕 Tall Slim Tees — TallSlimTees.com | Code SOCIALKICK for 20% off

Connect With our Hosts:

https://www.instagram.com/skylerasmithhh/

https://www.instagram.com/isabellestadden/

https://www.instagram.com/anna_peplowski/

Connect With Social Kick:

🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts

📱 Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socialkickswim/

🌐 Visit us at www.socialkickswim.com 

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to SUBSCRIBE and SHARE with a friend!

Elite swimmers Skyler Smith, Isabelle Stadden & Anna Peplowski kick off Social Kick's brand-new Season Pass series!

While Anna couldn't join the live conversation this week because she's competing on the World Aquatics World Cup circuit, she checks in from overseas to share her racing experiences and adventures.

Meanwhile, Skyler & Isabelle debate whether the CSL is pushing swimmers TOO FAR with 10+ races and just 2 minutes of rest, reveal their BRUTAL swim sets, open up about throwing up during practice and the mental battles of elite swimming, their road to making the Short Course World Championships, what happens if they DON'T qualify, why pro swimmers get paid to nap, and MORE...

Sponsors:

🛒 Elsmore Swim Shop — ElsmoreSwim.com | Code SOCIALKICK for 20% off

👕 Tall Slim Tees — TallSlimTees.com | Code SOCIALKICK for 20% off

 Connect With our Hosts:

https://www.instagram.com/skylerasmithhh/

https://www.instagram.com/isabellestadden/

https://www.instagram.com/anna_peplowski/

Connect With Social Kick:

🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts

📱 Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socialkickswim/ 

🌐 Visit us at www.socialkickswim.com 

Introducing Season Pass, a brand-new podcast series from Social Kick! 🏊‍♀️🎙️

Go behind the scenes with elite U.S. swimmers Skyler Smith, Isabelle Stadden, and Anna Peplowski as they train, compete, and chase their dreams of qualifying for the Short Course World Championships.

Follow their journey through this exclusive 8-episode series, featuring real conversations, intense training, and an inside look at life as a professional swimmer.

Connect With Our Season Pass Hosts:

Skyler Smith - https://www.instagram.com/skylerasmithhh/

Isabelle Stadden - https://www.instagram.com/isabellestadden/

Anna Peplowski - https://www.instagram.com/anna_peplowski/

What happens when one of the fastest backstrokers in history discovers that the secret to going faster might be the one training style she's always dreaded? Claire Curzan pulls back the curtain on the grind behind the glory, the mental warfare of elite competition, and the surprising lessons hiding inside college swimming's boldest experiment.

Claire Curzan is a 4x NCAA champion, international gold medalist, and one of the most dominant backstrokers in the world. Currently swimming her senior season at the University of Virginia under coach Todd DeSorbo, she holds the top five 200-yard backstrokes of all time, with one of them being a time she dropped in September, coming off what she calls "aerobic graveyard."

In this episode, she explains:

■ The Block Slip: A recounting of falling off the starting block during a high-stakes relay, and how the embarrassment fueled an even faster swim on the very next rep.

■ The Aerobic Paradox: How weeks of grueling, sprint-free distance training unexpectedly unlocked the fourth-fastest 200 backstroke ever, forcing a rethinking of what race prep actually requires.

■ The CSL Revolution: Why a bold new college swimming format delivered the most fun meet she's ever experienced — surpassing even World Championships and the Olympics.

■ The Doubt Playbook: How leaning on training memory, team identity, and a sports psychologist helped her build a pre-race routine that holds up even when the variables collapse.

■ The UVA Crucible: Training alongside Olympic-caliber teammates means constant exposure to excellence — and the challenge isn't imitation, but knowing which pieces to absorb and which to leave behind.

Sponsors:

🛒 Elsmore Swim Shop — ElsmoreSwim.com | Code SOCIALKICK for 20% off

👕 Tall Slim Tees — TallSlimTees.com | Code SOCIALKICK for 20% off

🏊‍♂️ Grown Up Swimming — https://www.grownupswimming.com/ 

Connect With our Guest: 

https://www.instagram.com/claire.curzan/ 

Connect With Social Kick:

🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.

📱 Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socialkickswim/ 

🌐 Visit us at www.socialkickswim.com 

🛒 Elsmore Swim Shop — ElsmoreSwim.com | Code SOCIALKICK for 20% off

👕 Tall Slim Tees — TallSlimTees.com | Code SOCIALKICK for 20% off

Support the Podcast: https://socialkickswim.com/shop

World-class butterflyer Ilya Kharun joins the Social Kick podcast to talk about his switch from Canada to Team USA, racing Caeleb Dressel at nationals, and going 19.4 in the 50 fly SCY in practice.

We talk about chasing sub-50 in the 100 fly, his underwater speed, NCAA format changes, the College Swimming League, ISL skins, his YouTube vlog, sponsorships, and the future of college recruiting.

Connect With our Guest:

https://www.instagram.com/ilya_kharun/

🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.

📱 Follow us on Instagram: @socialkickswim

🌐 Visit us at www.socialkickswim.com

🛒 Elsmore Swim Shop — ElsmoreSwim.com | Code SOCIALKICK for 20% off

👕 Tall Slim Tees — TallSlimTees.com | Code SOCIALKICK for 20% off

Support the Podcast: https://socialkickswim.com/shop

Former Stanford swim coach Tracy Slusser joins Social Kick to discuss her career pivot from coaching Olympic athletes like Katie Ledecky to launching a leadership coaching business for coaches.

She opens up about women in coaching, parental leave in sports, work-life balance on the pool deck, and her push for policy changes to support coaches navigating family and career at the NCAA and national team level.

🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.

📱 Follow us on Instagram: @socialkickswim

🌐 Visit us at www.socialkickswim.com

🛒 Elsmore Swim Shop — ElsmoreSwim.com | Code SOCIALKICK for 20% off 👕 Tall Slim Tees — TallSlimTees.com | Code SOCIALKICK for 20% off Support the Podcast: https://socialkickswim.com/shop The College Swimming League CEO joins us to break down the prize money, broadcast deals, and the format for the 2026 launch.

We are looking at the specifics of the new College Swimming League. With 12 teams competing across 8 meets, this setup is built specifically for television audiences rather than traditional timing.

The league has already locked in a major swimming broadcast partnership with ESPN and DAZN to bring the sport to a wider audience.  

🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. 📱 Follow us on Instagram: @socialkickswim 🌐 Visit us at www.socialkickswim.com

🛒 Elsmore Swim Shop — ElsmoreSwim.com | Code SOCIALKICK for 20% off

👕 Tall Slim Tees — TallSlimTees.com | Code SOCIALKICK for 20% off

Support the Podcast: https://socialkickswim.com/shop

Chris Guiliano returns to Social Kick to recap his Pan Pacs season, discuss adapting to training in Austin, and answer audience questions about the gallop stroke, sprinter warmups, tech suits, and more.

🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.

📱 Follow us on Instagram: @socialkickswim

🌐 Visit us at www.socialkickswim.com

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share with your swim friends, and leave a comment telling us what you liked!

🛒 Elsmore Swim Shop — ElsmoreSwim.com | Code SOCIALKICK for 20% off

👕 Tall Slim Tees — TallSlimTees.com | Code SOCIALKICK for 20% off

Support the Podcast: https://socialkickswim.com/shop

PanPac champion McKenzie Siroky joins Social Kick to break down her breakout season, U.S. Nationals win, and rise in the 50 and 100 breaststroke.

We talk swimming tips, swimming technique, swim drills, swimming practice, nutrition, and how to swim faster.

Plus, McKenzie shares her journey from hockey to competitive swimming and her approach to becoming a better swimmer.

🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.

📱 Follow us on Instagram: @socialkickswim

🌐 Visit us at www.socialkickswim.com

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share with your swim friends, and leave a comment telling us what you liked!

Episode 313 of The Social Kick Podcast features Indiana University sprint coach John Long! Fresh off a historic season where the IU men scored massive points at NCAAs and the women shattered relay records, Coach Long joins Bryan Lundquist and Dr. John Mullen. From transitioning through the legendary coaching trees of Auburn (Marsh, Quick, Hawke) to implementing ultra-low volume sprint blocks, experimenting with Kaatsu training, underwater cameras, and the upcoming College Swim League (CSL) innovations, John breaks down the modern evolution of collegiate sprint training.

Episode 312 of The Social Kick Podcast features rising swimming sensation Rowan Cox! Fresh off an incredible performance at US Nationals where he dropped two seconds in the 100 fly to clock a blistering 50.6—finishing third behind Caleb Dressel and Ilya Kharun and breaking Thomas Heilman's National Age Group (NAG) record—Rowan joins Dr. John Mullen and Bryan Lundquist.

From adjusting to Bob Bowman’s intense training groups at UT (including surviving the infamous lifeguard-warning underwater sets), discovering Chad le Clos randomly at Barton Springs, sharing hilarious summer league memories with Beyblades and ice cream dibs, to balancing a deep addiction to Minecraft with an elite professional mindset, Rowan breaks down what it takes to make the massive leap to the next level.

Episode 311 of The Social Kick Podcast features swimming icon and legend Chad le Clos. Fresh off an incredible performance at the Commonwealth Games—where he made history by becoming the most decorated athlete in the games' history—Chad joins the full crew to talk about his storied career, current mindset, and what keeps him driven in the sport. From overcoming physical adversity and injury, finding a renewed love for racing, and preparing for the short course season all the way to LA 2028, Chad opens up about the highs and lows of elite swimming, working with coach Delon Danhauser, studying Michael Phelps, and what it truly takes to sprint butterfly at the highest level.

Episode 310 of The Social Kick Podcast features friend of the show, content creator, and elite swim coach João Mescolote. Fresh off an incredible 6,500-mile road trip visiting top college swimming and club programs across the country, João sits down with the full crew to share what he learned about the modern landscape of swimming. From the shifting dynamics of NCAA coaching and the evolution of swim physiology to growing up as a sprinter in Brazil, his time at LSU, post-swimming bodybuilding, and finding a lifelong passion for coaching, this episode is packed with insights for competitive swimmers, coaches, and swim fans alike!

Elite swimming analyst and commentator Kurt Mills Hanson joins the Social Kick podcast for episode 309 to drop unfiltered opinions on everything from the golden era of Australian broadcasting and the politics of World Aquatics to radical ideas for saving the sport. Join hosts Bryan Lundquist and Dr. John Mullen as Kurt shares behind-the-scenes stories of crafting hard-copy media guides before the internet, navigating massive industry backlash for his involvement with the Enhanced Games, and debating the future of professional swimming. Dive into high-level discussions on why swimming needs a tennis-style major circuit, eliminating country quotas, trimming endless medal ceremonies, and transitioning college programs to short-course meters.

Elite swimmer Anna Moesch returns to the Social Kick podcast for episode 308 to break down her massive athletic leap over the past year, including winning an NCAA title in the 200 free and clocking a blistering 51-second 100 free. Join hosts Bryan Lundquist and John Mullen as they dive into Anna's behind-the-scenes training journey. Discover how she handles brutal altitude training blocks at the Olympic Training Center, incorporates high-aerobic volume to conquer late-race pain, and utilizes specific stroke and power rack drills to unlock elite front-end speed. Get a front-row seat to the daily culture of excellence at Virginia and learn what it takes to train alongside the best sprinters in the world.

How does a former 800 freestyler from Fiji become an 18-second 50 freestyler in one of the fastest sprint environments in the NCAA? In this episode of the Social Kick Podcast, Arizona State University's Tolu Young shares his incredible journey from the "no rush, no worries" island culture of Fiji to the highly competitive, smack-talking pool deck at ASU. T

olu breaks down his unexpected transition from a self-proclaimed terrible distance swimmer into a pure 50 freestyler after moving to Washington State during the 2020 lockdowns. We dive deep into the cutting edge of sprint training as Tolu explains his role in ASU's highly specialized "Ultra Sprint" group.

He discusses his experiences utilizing USRPT, experimenting with the Cameron McEvoy method, and the brutal realities of Central Nervous System (CNS) fatigue when training at absolute maximum velocity. Tolu also gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the ASU training culture, his goals representing Fiji at the upcoming Commonwealth Games, and why he completely avoids swimming 100s in practice. I

f you are a swim nerd interested in the evolution of low-volume, high-power sprint training, you won't want to miss this!

How does a multi-sport athlete who trained in the pool just 2 to 4 times a week become one of the fastest freestylers in the NCAA? In this episode of the Social Kick Podcast, we sit down with Indiana University sensation Liberty Clark to unpack her wildly unique path to swimming stardom. Growing up in Chico, California, Liberty balanced club volleyball, judo, and soccer with a low-yardage summer league swimming approach. She breaks down the massive culture shock of moving to IU, where she went from swimming 3,000-yard maximum practices to surviving 5,000-meter long course conditioning sets (and yes, there were tears). Liberty also opens up about growing up as the daughter of Olympic medalist and World Record holder Haley Cope Clark, what it’s really like racing alongside IU teammate Anna Peplowski in practice, and her elite mindset hack of visualizing a 1:37 200 Free just to make a 1:42 feel "easy." Plus, we dive into the age-old debate: Why doesn't Short Course Yards swimming get the same World Record respect as NCAA Track and Field? Whether you're a multi-sport athlete, a sprinter trying to survive aerobic sets, or just a fan of elite NCAA swimming, this episode is packed with honest insights and laughs.

Australia’s distance freestyle king has returned! Fresh off a historic performance at the 2026 Australian Trials—where he became the first man since Grant Hackett to sweep the 200m, 400m, 800m, and 1500m Freestyles—Samuel Short joins the Social Kick Podcast to break down exactly how he did it. In this episode, Sam takes us behind the scenes of his elite training block. From brutal high-altitude camps in Flagstaff to managing his sleep and body composition with Oura Rings and dietitians, Sam leaves no stone unturned. He details exactly what he eats in a day to survive massive double sessions, why he’s taking fueling cues from pro cyclists, and what it’s actually like to train with a biomechanist yelling at you during a lactate set. We also break down Sam's race strategy. Sam breaks down his insane 7:36 in the 800m Free, the unbelievable world record pacing of his international competitors, and why he loves racing guys who try to take the race out fast. Plus, we get into some classic swimmer debates: is it better to double-breathe off the wall or put your head down? And what is the most vulnerable World Record right now?

In this episode of Social Kick, we are joined by the "Father of NIL," Grant House! As the lead plaintiff in the landmark House v. NCAA case, Grant completely changed the landscape of college sports. But he’s not stopping there. Grant is now focused on educating athletes, speaking at universities across the country, and developing his own performance consulting business. We discuss the evolving world of NIL, exploring what brands are actually looking for from Olympic athletes and how swimmers can better monetize their careers.

Grant shares his experience attending Athlete Con in Las Vegas and the surprising truth about how many brands and athletes still don't fully understand the NIL landscape.

But it's not all business—we also tackle some hot topics! Grant gives his unfiltered take on the highly controversial Enhanced Games, discussing why athletes deserve fair compensation and why the swimming community needs to stop shutting down new opportunities. We also debate the ethics of sports betting, propose a new "World Record Lottery" system to pay swimmers millions, and discuss the optimal temperature for a sauna recovery session.

Is Josh Matheny the happiest guy in professional swimming? We caught up with the rising USA breaststroke star after meeting him at the Beyond the Blocks Clinic in Ohio, and he did not disappoint! In this episode of the Social Kick, Josh discusses his unique breaststroke technique—specifically answering the question everyone asks: Why does he open his mouth so wide when he breathes? Josh also opens up about his training philosophy at Indiana University, how he manages the brutal 200m Breaststroke, and the mental battles of breaking through times when you're stuck on a plateau. We also get into some hilarious stories, including his absolute nightmare Halloween set (400 IM, 500 Free, and Butterfly?), getting chewed out for almost missing a final at the Sacramento Pro Swim Series, and the rigid unwritten rules of "Social Kicking" at IU. Plus, we put him in the hot seat during our Rapid Fire segment! Whether you're a breaststroker trying to figure out your race strategy or just a fan of elite swimming, Josh is one of the most grounded and insightful athletes in the sport.

How does a 200 Butterfly and IM swimmer completely reinvent himself to become the American Record holder in the 50 Breaststroke? In this episode of Social Kick, we sit down with sprint powerhouse Van Mathias to discuss his incredible and unconventional swimming journey.

Van breaks down how stepping away from the pool to focus on heavy lifting (and bulking up to 235 lbs!) ultimately laid the foundation for his explosive sprint speed. We discuss his current training regimen at Indiana University, which defies traditional swimming volume.

Van reveals how he hits career-best times on just 8,000 to 10,000 yards a week, utilizing intense resistance pulley training, high-lactate bursts, and almost zero "easy" swimming. He also opens up about the reality of balancing life as a professional swimmer with a full-time job, why changing his mindset was the real secret to dropping times, and exactly how he trims his iconic mustache for maximum hydrodynamics.

If you're a swimmer wanting to transition into the sprint group or looking for fresh insights into high-intensity training, this episode is a must-listen!

What does it actually take to make a living as a professional swimmer? Olympic Silver Medalist and NCAA Champion Anna Peplowski joins Social Kick to pull back the curtain on pro swimming finances, her transition out of NCAA competition, and her road to the LA 2028 Olympics. Anna breaks down the exact numbers behind her professional career, including the $3,750 monthly stipend from USA Swimming, the $15,000 athlete donor program, and how she navigates brand deals with companies like Jersey Mike's, Science in Sport, and DripDrop. She also shares how living on $650/month rent in Indiana helps her budget for the future! Beyond the business of the sport, Anna discusses the insane depth of the Women's 200 Freestyle, the mindset shift that keeps her motivated during grueling threshold sets, her borderline-obsessive coffee hobby, and the absolute hardest set she’s ever done at IU (40x75s!). Plus, stick around for the Rapid Fire segment where Anna flexes an unbelievable hidden talent: singing every single US President in under 15 seconds. If you want an honest, transparent look at the life of an elite swimmer, you don't want to miss this one.

Is he the best underwater kicker of all time? We think so—and so does Coach Dave Durden! In this episode of the Social Kick Podcast, Olympic Gold Medalist and Cal Bear legend Tom Shields joins the crew to talk about his life post-retirement, his new swimming clinics, and his life in Santa Cruz, California.

Tom takes us through his incredible career, revealing the exact moment he realized his underwaters were world-class and how he used his turns to dominate the sport. But Tom’s next chapter goes far beyond the pool. He details his new three-pronged approach to giving back: high-level swimming clinics, partnering with local surf instructors for a holistic "waterman" experience, and his passion project—launching a foundation to bring mental health first aid to age-group swimming clubs.

From dodging sea lions while spearfishing and respecting local surf culture to breaking down why underwater breath-holding contests are useless for competitive swimming, this episode is packed with stories and actionable advice from one of the sport's greatest technicians.

Remember the fun of summer league swimming? The relays, the snacks, and hanging out with your friends by the pool? Brian Robbins is bringing that exact energy back to the sport with Grown-Up Swimming, a recreational summer swim league designed specifically for adults.

In this episode of the Social Kick Podcast, Brian, John, and Luke sit down with Brian Robbins to discuss the massive, rapid growth of Grown-Up Swimming—expanding from just 7 leagues in 2023 to over 45 cities nationwide today. We dive into the hilarious origin story behind the league's name (and why Turner Broadcasting's "Adult Swim" forced their hand), the wildly creative team names, and why this format is acting as the "pickleball" of the swimming world by making the sport more accessible, relaxed, and fun.

Whether you are a former elite athlete looking to casually race a 25 freestyle or someone swimming in your very first competitive meet, Grown-Up Swimming has a lane for you. Grab a mystery-flavored Airhead, crack a cold one, and tune in to learn how you can join the adult summer league movement! 

The UVA Men’s team has officially arrived. We are joined by the powerhouse freshman duo of Thomas Heilman and Maximus Williamson to recap a historic NCAA season that saw the Virginia men jump into the Top 10. Maximus takes us behind the scenes of his legendary 200 Freestyle win from Lane 8 (and the secret tattoo deal he made with Todd DeSorbo), while Thomas breaks down the "stacked" 100 Butterfly final and the intense rivalry and camaraderie at the heart of the Cavalier culture. We dive into the controversial NCAA "No B-Final" format, the reality of swimming relays in the morning, and how this "best recruiting class ever" is handling the massive expectations of the UVA shadow. From 1v1 snipers-only video games to "drippiest coach" awards and chasing Gretchen Walsh's 100 fly times in practice, this episode covers the grit and the fun behind the rise of UVA Men’s Swimming.

In this episode of Social Kick, Bryan and the crew sit down with one of the hottest "free agents" in NCAA swimming: Julian Koch. After an explosive sophomore season at Pitt that saw him jump from a non-qualifier to a top seed in the 100 Freestyle A-Final, Julian has officially entered the transfer portal. Julian breaks down the "overwhelming" 48 hours after his name hit the portal, his recent visits to powerhouses like Texas, Florida, and Tennessee, and the 20-pound muscle transformation that fueled his 40.4 100 Freestyle. We also dive into his international background—growing up in Dubai, Paris, and Qatar—and why he represents Germany on the international stage. Whether it’s discussing NIL value, his newfound obsession with Hacky Sack, or the 800 IM "worst set ever" from his club days, Julian provides a raw and insightful look at the life of a modern elite collegiate swimmer.

In this episode of Social Kick, Olympic swimmer David Johnston opens up about his recent decision to transfer from Texas to Florida, diving deep into the realities of navigating the transfer portal, and Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals in collegiate swimming. He candidly shares his struggles with a debilitating shoulder injury, his relentless drive to return to the sport he loves, and his ultimate goal for the 2028 Olympics. They discuss everything from what it means to “outwork” the competition, adapting to a new coaching style, and the mindset needed to overcome intense physical and mental setbacks. Listen in as David gets honest about what’s next and why he believes his best swimming is still ahead of him!

In this episode of Social Kick, Bryan Lundquist and Dr. John Mullen sit down with Indiana University’s breakout freshman sensation, Josh Bey. After a monster first year that saw him drop 5 seconds in his 200 breaststroke to become the #8 all-time performer (1:48.9) and win the Big 10 title in the 400 IM, Josh pulls back the curtain on the mental and physical grind of elite college swimming. Josh opens up about his "cannon event"—a heart-to-heart meeting in December that saved his season—and how he moved past crippling superstitions to finally trust his gut. We dive deep into the IU breaststroke culture, the technical "pause" trick that changed his turns, and why he responds best when coaches get in his face.

In this episode of the Social Kick Podcast, we welcome back NCAA Champion and Polish Olympian Kacper Stokowski. Known for his legendary celebrations and underwater dominance at NC State, Kacper is now pivoting his competitive drive into the world of sports business. We discuss his new venture, Level Up Mentorship, a platform designed to bridge the gap between young athletes and elite mentors. Kacper shares his personal journey from a young swimmer in Poland with unanswered questions to an elite athlete realizing the power of a one-on-one connection. We also get Kacper’s takes on the current state of swimming, including: The 19-Second Barrier: Why we haven't seen a 19-second 50 backstroke yet and who he’d bet on to do it. The "Wolfpack" Culture: Lessons learned from Braden Holloway and how swimming for "the Diamond" shaped his business philosophy. Monetizing the Sport: How mentorship can create revenue streams for non-revenue collegiate sports to prevent program cuts. Injury & Comeback: Kacper opens up about his recent back struggles (the "old man problems" of underwater specialists) and his excitement to return to the water with a smarter, higher-intensity training approach. Whether you're a parent navigating the NIL era, a young swimmer looking for a pro's perspective, or just a fan of the sport, this episode is packed with insights on how to "Level Up." 0:00 - Intro: Remembering Kacper’s epic block celebration 2:08 - The 19-second 50 Backstroke: Why is it so elusive? 5:24 - Discussing the "Swim Inflation" and 42-second backstroke times 7:12 - Audience Questions: The art of the celebration—authentic vs. choreographed 14:31 - Breaking the unwritten rules of swimming "decorum" 17:05 - What is Level Up? Solving the lack of resources for young athletes 23:38 - Moving beyond "doom scrolling" to real mentorship 35:30 - The challenges of being an international recruit in the NCAA 41:54 - The most common question: "How do I become a pro?" 44:36 - The long-term goal: Saving collegiate programs through revenue sharing 52:10 - Recovery update: Dealing with bulging discs and the return to the pool 56:47 - Rapid Fire: Pull-up goals, bench press stats, and Masters predictions

Special Thanks to our Sponsors:

TheMagic5: Experience the world's only custom-fit goggles, designed to eliminate leaks and pressure marks for a more comfortable swim: https://themagic5.com/

Grown-Up Swimming: Why let the kids have all the fun? Join the summer league for adults and rediscover the joy of racing: https://www.grownupswimming.com/

TriHard: Protect your skin and hair from chlorine. Use code SOCIALKICK for 20% off your order: https://www.trihard.co/

SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLbmxjdMDo4UHcB9bEUWsQg

FOLLOW: https://www.instagram.com/socialkickswim/

In this episode of the Social Kick Podcast, we sit down with Sean Kao, the founder and mastermind behind Aquatic Sports Performance (ASP). Sean has revolutionized the way elite swimmers approach the weight room, training some of the fastest athletes on the planet, including Caleb Dressel and Michael Andrew. Sean takes us through his journey from being a sprinter at Arizona State University under the legendary Bob Bowman to building a world-class training facility from a garage. We discuss his "Rate Limiting KPI" philosophy, the reality of "neural load" in sprinting, and the grit required to build a media brand and an elite pro group simultaneously. Whether you’re a coach, an athlete, or a swimming nerd, Sean Kao’s insights on the business and biology of fast swimming are a must-watch.

The 2026 NCAA Swimming & Diving season is officially in the books! Bryan and John are back from Atlanta (Georgia Tech) to recap a wild week of record-breaking performances and controversial format changes. From the Virginia Women securing an epic 6th straight title to the Texas Men going back-to-back, the dynasties are alive and well—but the sport is changing. We dive deep into the "no B-finals" experiment, the decision to open the meet with the 1650 Freestyle, and why Josh Liendo and Hubi Kos setting NCAA records in the morning was met with "crickets" in the stands. We also discuss our Social Kick Afterparty at Margaritaville with Olympic Champ Daniel Wiffen and our vision for turning the NCAAs into a 6-day combined "festival" of swimming.

What happens when a top-tier athlete hits a plateau after five years in the same environment? Isabelle Stadden joins the crew to discuss her "reset" move from Cal to the University of Virginia. After nearly walking away from the sport last summer, Isabelle is back and faster than ever, dropping a massive 2:05 200 Backstroke at Westmont. We dive deep into the differences between the Dave Durden and Todd DeSorbo training styles, the "trauma" of training with Ryan Murphy at altitude, and why she’s suddenly swimming with the endurance of her high school self. From specific caffeine protocols to the psychology of "Social Kick," this is a masterclass in elite athlete longevity.

What happens when you’re the first alternate for an Olympic final and get the call only 40 minutes before the blocks? Israeli star Anastasia Gorbenko joins the Social Kick crew to break down the "Paris Drama," her transition from the professional ISL ranks to the Louisville Cardinals, and the story behind the most famous flip turn in breaststroke history. Anastasia discusses the intensity of the "American way" of training, the emotional weight of representing Israel during a time of war, and how she maintains range from a 29.3 50 breaststroke to a world-class 400 IM. Whether you're here for the technical breakdown of relay starts or the "rapid-fire" segment on her favorite snacks (spoiler: it’s mango), this episode is a deep dive into the mind of one of the most versatile swimmers on the planet.

Daniel Wiffen and Nathan Wiffen join the Social Kick Podcast to discuss the training, mindset, and recovery behind elite 1500m freestyle swimming. Olympic champion Daniel Wiffen, one of the fastest distance swimmers in the world, shares the unusual recovery routine—including a famous 15-hour nap cycle—that helped power his rise in Olympic swimming.

In Episode 288 of the Social Kick Podcast, Daniel Wiffen and Nathan Wiffen break down their journey from Loughborough’s high-volume training environment to the marginal gains philosophy at Cal Berkeley swimming. The Wiffen brothers explain how distance swimmers manage brutal training weeks, how race tactics like negative splitting in the 1500 freestyle shape championship performances, and how they approach the mental challenge of world-class distance racing.

The conversation dives into elite distance swimming training, recovery science, and the psychology of Olympic preparation. Daniel Wiffen also discusses working with top coaches and how technical details like body position and efficiency can determine success in the 1500m freestyle.

Whether you’re a competitive swimmer, coach, or fan of Olympic swimming, this episode with Daniel Wiffen and Nathan Wiffen offers an inside look at what it takes to compete at the highest level of the sport. Topics: Daniel Wiffen, Nathan Wiffen, Olympic swimming, 1500m freestyle, distance swimming training, swim recovery, Cal Berkeley swimming, elite swimmer mindset.

Gabe Jett is more than just a 1:54 butterflyer; he is a film major, a quiche enthusiast, and a man who has looked the 200 fly yips in the eye and won. In this episode, Gabe joins the Social Kick crew to discuss his evolution from a collegiate standout at Cal to a seasoned professional.

He gets remarkably honest about the mental plateau that followed his early success, the fear of the last 50 meters, and how building a life involving film and personal relationships actually made him a faster swimmer. We also dive into the technical details of his training odyssey in Australia, the specific dolphin kick progression that built his legendary underwaters, and why he is officially boycotting Netflix in favor of indie theaters.

Whether you are struggling with your own plateau or looking for the secret to a faster 200 fly, Gabe’s perspective on swimming free is a masterclass in sports psychology.

Charlotte Crush isn’t just the top high school recruit in the nation — she’s one of the most promising young swimmers in the world. In Episode 286 of Social Kick, we sit down with the Team USA standout and Lakeside Hawks star to explore the mindset, training, and discipline driving her rapid rise.

Coming from a family of NCAA champions and elite athletes, Charlotte knows expectations follow her everywhere. But rather than shy away from the pressure, she’s learned how to channel it — maintaining a professional approach to the sport while still navigating the realities of high school life.

In this episode, Charlotte opens up about her commitment to the University of Tennessee, the influence of her swimming family, and the unconventional backyard pool sessions that helped sharpen her elite underwater skills. She breaks down the technical evolution of her backstroke, her shift toward greater aerobic strength, and the mentality that keeps her pushing forward even when a race feels “perfect.”

The conversation is insightful, honest, and full of personality — offering a rare look inside the mind of an athlete many believe is shaping the next generation of American swimming.

In this episode: 🏊 Life as the nation’s #1 recruit 🇺🇸 Representing Team USA at a young age 🔥 Managing expectations and self-pressure ⚡ The technical secrets behind elite underwaters 🍊 Why Tennessee felt like the right fit

Whether you're a swimmer, coach, or fan of the sport, this episode gives you a front-row seat to a future star building a legacy entirely her own.

Jacob Mills is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about young sprinters in world swimming — and for good reason. Standing 6'6" with elite power and rapidly improving efficiency, the British freestyle rising star joins Social Kick after a breakout season that has put the global sprint scene on notice.

In this episode, Jacob breaks down the technical transformation that changed his career — cutting his stroke count dramatically, refining his “big man” freestyle, and learning how to balance raw strength with precision in the water. He shares how his rugby background built the discipline and toughness that now fuels his training, why he made the bold decision to stay in Manchester rather than pursue the NCAA route, and what it’s like preparing alongside some of Britain’s biggest names.

We also dive into sprint strategy, back-half speed in the 100 free, altitude camps, the daily grind of British training culture, and his long-term vision for the LA 2028 Olympics.

Insightful, technical, and packed with personality, this conversation offers a front-row seat to the mindset of a swimmer chasing world-class speed — and just getting started.

🎧 In this episode: 🔥 The stroke overhaul that unlocked major time drops 🇬🇧 Training with Britain’s elite 💪 The “big swimmer” approach to sprinting 🏅 Olympic ambition and the road to LA 2028

Ryan Erisman is having one of the most eye-opening freshman seasons in college swimming — and he proved it on the world stage.

Fresh off a dominant performance at the 2026 Pro Swim Series in Austin, the Cal freshman joins Social Kick to break down what it takes to beat Olympic medalists, manage insane race schedules, and thrive inside the legendary Cal system. Ryan talks about winning the 200 and 400 free, dropping massive time in the 1500, and racing everything from the 200 fly to the 100 free — often in the same session.

We get into his rapid transition from high school standout to NCAA threat, training under Dave Durden, long-course vs short-course racing, and how he’s building momentum with Nationals and NCAAs ahead. If you want a look at what the next generation of U.S. distance and middle-distance freestyle looks like, this episode is a must-listen.

🎧 Freshman breakout 🔥 Pro Swim Austin wins 🏊 Beating Olympians 🐻 Life inside Cal swimming

Skyler Smith is swimming some of the best races of her career — right now.

In this episode of Social Kick, the UNC senior and U.S. National Team pool member opens up about finding momentum, building confidence, and racing fast without waiting for the perfect taper. From dropping personal bests at the Pro Swim Series to navigating NCAA pressure and setbacks, Skyler shares what it actually takes to stay dangerous across a long season.

This conversation goes deep into breaststroke — how it works for her body, why technique myths persist, and what matters most when racing at a high level. Skyler also reflects on confidence, consistency, and learning to trust the process after meets don’t go as planned.

Along the way, we get plenty of personality: rapid-fire questions, training war stories, pop culture, and what’s next as she balances elite swimming with grad school and life beyond the pool.

If you’re a swimmer, coach, or fan who wants to understand how elite athletes think, adapt, and keep progressing, this episode delivers.

What does it take to keep going when you’ve already given everything you have?

In this episode of Social Kick, we sit down with Andy Donaldson — ultramarathon swimmer, world-record holder, fastest man to swim around Manhattan Island, and the first male swimmer to complete the Ocean’s Seven in a single calendar year.

Andy shares the realities behind the swims most people only see in photos: long hours in dark water, brutal conditions, sickness, fear, and the moments where progress feels impossible. He opens up about a swim that nearly ended in defeat — before turning into one of the most meaningful experiences of his life, finishing just four minutes outside a world record on the rocks of Scotland.

This conversation goes beyond times and results. It’s about:

• Defining your “why” when things start to unravel

• Learning that you don’t have to do it alone

• The shift from chasing personal achievement to creating purpose

• Using swimming as a platform to inspire others and elevate communities

From swimming around Manhattan to a groundbreaking relay around Bahrain, Andy reflects on how his motivation has evolved — and why impact now matters more than records.

Sometimes the finish time isn’t the point. Sometimes the real win is what the journey reveals.

🎙 Social Kick Podcast

British Olympian Eva Okaro joins Social Kick to talk about her breakout freshman season at the University of Texas, adapting to NCAA swimming, and why fun, confidence, and environment have fueled her early success.

Eva shares what it’s really like moving from Team GB to Texas, adjusting to short course yards, handling tougher training, and surrounding herself with athletes who push each other daily. She also opens up about mindset shifts, embracing change, international competition, and what excites her about what’s ahead.

This episode covers:

• Transitioning from UK swimming to the NCAA

• Breaking school records as a Texas freshman

• Short course yards vs meters

• Training mentality, team culture & confidence

• Life in Austin and balancing elite sport with college life

A must-listen for swimmers, coaches, and anyone interested in high-performance environments.

🎧 Follow Social Kick for more conversations with elite athletes shaping the future of swimming.

Legendary coach Dave Durden joins Social Kick to talk culture, champions, and what really matters in elite swim training.

As the head coach of the California Golden Bears, Dave has built one of the most successful programs in college swimming history, developing Olympic champions and sustained excellence. In this episode, he breaks down his coaching philosophy, why evaluating how athletes move in the water matters more than times, and how long-term planning shapes winning environments.

We also dive into recruiting, building trust, and why Dave believes social kick might be one of the most important — and overlooked — parts of training.

Whether you’re a swimmer, coach, or fan of the sport, this episode is packed with insight, perspective, and stories from one of swimming’s most respected leaders.

Follow Social Kick and drop a comment with your favorite Dave Durden memory or your go-to social kick set.

Dude, what a year.”

In this year-end episode of The Social Kick Podcast, the full crew — Bryan Lundquist, Dr. John Mullen, and Luke Paddington — gets together to close out 2025 by debating the most unforgettable moments in swimming.

We break down the races that defined the year, from Leon Marchand skipping the 1:53s entirely in the 200 IM to Katie Ledecky breaking the 15-minute barrier at a home invitational. We also dig into the moments that sparked debate and disbelief, including the Florida relay disqualification at NCAAs, the removal of B-Finals from the NCAA format, and a “pool measurement” conspiracy surrounding world records.

The conversation moves from jaw-dropping performances to the hardest training sets of the year — including a Sven Schwarz distance workout that stopped Bryan in his tracks — before wrapping with bold predictions and personal goals heading into 2026.

Topics include:

• Race of the Year debates

• The women’s 800 free and Ledecky’s historic swim

• NCAA controversies and format changes

• The hardest sets of 2025

• Big interviews, breakout moments, and WTF stories

• Bold predictions and goals for 2026

It’s equal parts analysis, opinion, humor, and reflection — a true end-of-year conversation for swimmers, coaches, and fans who lived every moment of the 2025 season.

John Shortt is emerging as one of the most exciting young backstrokers in the world.

In this episode of The Social Kick Podcast, the Irish standout and World Junior Champion joins us to talk through his rapid rise on the international stage, including his performances at World Juniors and the European Short Course Championships. Known for his closing speed and elite turns, John breaks down the technical details that separate his backstroke and how years of training in a 20-meter pool shaped his underwater skills.

We discuss his development pathway, confidence-building training sets, and how he balances racing multiple backstroke distances while staying technically sound under pressure. John also shares insight into life at Ireland’s National Training Centre in Limerick, why he chose to stay home rather than pursue U.S. college options, and what’s driving Ireland’s growing momentum in international swimming.

The conversation mixes detailed swimming insight with lighter moments, giving a clear picture of both the athlete and the person behind the results.

A must-listen for swimmers, coaches, and fans interested in elite backstroke, athlete development, and the next generation of international talent.

Will Modglin just delivered one of the fastest backstroke performances in NCAA history.

In this episode of The Social Kick Podcast, we sit down with the new American record holder in the 100-yard backstroke after his 43.26 swim at the Texas Hall of Fame Invite. He also clocked the fastest 50-yard backstroke ever with a 20.00 lead-off split, coming within a touch of breaking one of swimming’s most iconic barriers.

A junior at the University of Texas and a U.S. National Team member, Will breaks down the mindset behind those record swims, the training culture at Texas under Bob Bowman, and how racing in one of the deepest backstroke groups in the NCAA has shaped his confidence.

We also dive into his unusual versatility, including how he went 50.9 in the 100 breaststroke with minimal breaststroke-specific training, how he approaches event selection, and where IM and long-course goals fit into his future.

The conversation wraps with audience questions and a rapid-fire round covering training, competition, and swim culture as Will looks ahead to what’s next in a breakout career.

Sven Schwarz is one of the fastest-rising distance swimmers in the world, training up to 100K per week and relying almost entirely on feel to guide his pace. In this episode of The Social Kick Podcast, Sven breaks down the work, the mindset, and the new level of men’s distance swimming.

We talk about training volume, threshold pace, recovery habits, coach communication, race prep, and why he skipped the 2025 European Championships. If you’re into distance swimming or elite training insights, this conversation delivers.

Subscribe for more interviews with the world’s top swimmers.

Virginia Head Coach Todd DeSorbo joins The Social Kick to talk about the future of college swimming and the debut of a made-for-TV double elimination dual meet featuring UVA, Tennessee, and Michigan. He shares how new formats, rivalries, and personality can elevate the sport, his philosophy on building winning teams, and what it takes to innovate without losing the joy of racing.

A fast, insightful conversation with one of the most influential coaches in the NCAA.

Matt Kredich isn’t just a successful swim coach — he’s a culture builder, a thinker, and a leader whose impact reaches far beyond the pool deck. As the Director of Swimming & Diving at the University of Tennessee, he has developed Olympians, NCAA champions, and stars like Jordan Crooks, Mona McSharry, and Gui Caribe. But what truly makes Tennessee stand out is not just the speed — it’s the chemistry, belief, and connection that everyone can see.

In this episode of The Social Kick Podcast, Matt shares how culture becomes a competitive advantage, why empathy and accountability can coexist in high-performance environments, and how personal loss reshaped his perspective on coaching and purpose. We talk about sprint mechanics, drag reduction, athlete mindset, and how to help swimmers make breakthroughs technically and emotionally.

This is a conversation about coaching, leadership, resilience, and what it really takes to help people become the best version of themselves — in and out of the water.

Listen now to hear:

• How culture drives performance in elite swim programs

• What makes Jordan Crooks and Tennessee’s sprinters different

• Using empathy, structure, and purpose in coaching

• How personal loss shaped Matt’s approach to leadership

• The technical and human elements behind world-class swimming

Whether you're a swimmer, coach, parent, or just love great conversations about growth, this episode will leave you thinking differently about what makes people better.