Explore every episode of the podcast VeloUnlocked: Decrypting Elite Baseball Performance
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overcoming Control Issues in Throwing: A Focus on Mental and Ecological Approaches | 16 Dec 2024 | 00:01:43 | |
Control issues in throwing often stem from mental barriers like anxiety and overthinking rather than mechanical flaws. Athletes can improve accuracy by focusing on the simple goal of hitting the target, using a constraints-led approach and ecological training to build confidence and consistency. By combining mental clarity with practical drills, throwers can overcome control challenges and perform more effectively. Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| Understanding "Elbow Flu": How Colds Can Impact Throwing Athletes | 11 Dec 2024 | 00:01:00 | |
"Elbow flu" is a term used to describe joint inflammation in throwing athletes during or after a viral illness like a cold, caused by the body's inflammatory response. This condition can lead to joint stiffness, pain, and reduced performance, especially if athletes train at high intensities during recovery. To avoid setbacks, proceed with caution. Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| Transforming Challenges into Triumphs with Brandon Neeck | 07 Feb 2024 | 01:01:05 | |
In this episode of VeloUnlocked w/ Dr. Nick Serio, we’re joined by Brandon Neeck, a left-handed pitcher currently assigned to the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes from the ACL Dodgers. Join them as they:
In 2022, Brandon's exceptional skills and dedication were recognized by the Los Angeles Dodgers, leading to his selection in the ninth round of the MLB Draft. Before joining the Dodgers, Brandon played a key role in the University of Virginia's pitching team, helping the Cavaliers return to the College World Series for the first time since 2015. During his four-year term at Virginia, he achieved a 3.33 ERA and made 101 strikeouts in 67.2 innings. In his junior year, Brandon made 22 appearances, pitching 23⅓ innings with a 2-0 record and an impressive 1.93 ERA. As a senior, he registered a 2-2 record and a 4.04 ERA, with 57 strikeouts and 19 walks. If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. Instructions on how to do this are here. Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| The New Frontier of Baseball Coaching with Thomas Jankins | 24 Jan 2024 | 01:12:38 | |
In this episode of VeloUnlocked w/ Dr. Nick Serio, we’re joined by Thomas Jankins, a Performance Coach at Velo University. Join them as they:
Tom's athletic skills led him to be drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers in the 2016 MLB Draft. He dedicated seven seasons to playing in the minor leagues, where he climbed to the prestigious AAA level. During the off-season, he developed his skills as a throwing instructor, sharing his knowledge at various facilities across New York, Connecticut, and Massachusetts. After a praiseworthy playing career, Tom shifted to a career in consulting, where he worked as a logistic analyst at LogicSource before joining Velo University. If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts, instructions on how to do this are here. Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| Navigating Wellness and Recovery for Athletes with Rob Blanc | 10 Jan 2024 | 00:57:52 | |
In this episode of VeloUnlocked w/ Dr. Nick Serio, we’re joined by the professional baseball coach Rob Blanc. Join them as they:
Rob Blanc is a professional baseball coach who manages a recovery center focusing on health and wellness, offering services such as cryotherapy, red light therapy, infrared sauna, and IV infusions. He has been part of Driveline's remote training program and emphasizes the importance of injury prevention and recovery in his approach to coaching. If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts, instructions on how to do this are here. Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| Clearing The Bases with Dr. Nick Serio | 03 Jan 2024 | 01:20:17 | |
In this bonus episode, we're sharing, our very own, Dr. Nick Serio's appearance on the Clearing The Bases podcast. Recently, Nick was asked to appear on podcast to discuss his work at VeloU. So listen as Nick discusses his own journey of empowering athletes. From receiving a doctorate in Sport and Performance Psychology in 2014 to finding Velo University in 2020. Nick's mission is to reshape the stereotypical perception of the development of student athletes and bring in a new ideology of athletic excellence. Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| Hustle Like a Billionaire on Your Way to the Big Leagues with Dean Jackson | 27 Dec 2023 | 00:07:27 | |
In this episode of VeloUnlocked w/ Dr. Nick Serio, we’re joined by the professional baseball pitching trainer Dean Jackson. Join them as they:
Dean is a former pitcher who became obsessed with pitching training. He has adopted a scientific approach to understanding how throwing velocity works and how to improve it in each person. Over the years, he has helped some of the best pitchers on the planet get better, including Aiden McIntyre and Grant Vurpillat. If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts, instructions on how to do this are here. Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| Taking Risks at 17: How To Become A Professional Baseball Player | Aidan Curry, Texas Rangers Prospect | 20 Dec 2023 | 00:42:55 | |
In this episode of VeloUnlocked, host Dr. Nick Serio is joined by the professional baseball player Aidan Curry. Aidan is currently a pitcher for Down East Wood Ducks. As the Texas Rangers' No.16 prospect, he was awarded the 2023 Carolina League Pitcher of the Year, Carolina League Postseason All-Star, and Baseball America Low-Class A All-Star.
Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| Who do I want to be? | Weaponizing Your Mind | 17 Dec 2023 | 00:08:30 | |
In this episode, we move beyond traditional goal-setting, emphasizing the transformative impact of consistent actions in shaping our desired identity. We challenge the notion that goals alone define us and guide listeners through a practical exercise to align their daily behaviors with their envisioned identity. Discover why embodying the identity of the person who achieves a goal is more crucial than the goal itself. The episode concludes with a call to action: evaluate your current identity, articulate a desired one, commit to specific behaviors, and display this commitment as a daily reminder. Join us in exploring the power of identity and the significance of daily actions in shaping the person you aspire to become. Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| Unknown Walk On to Major League Baseball | Joe La Sorsa, Washington Nationals | 13 Dec 2023 | 01:21:07 | |
On this episode of VeloUnlocked, host Dr. Nick Serio sits down with Joe La Sorsa, a professional baseball pitcher for the Washington Nationals. Joe shares his wild story from minor leagues to professional baseball. He dives into the challenges of the minor leagues, the importance of embracing the underdog mentality in professional baseball, and his incredible achievement during the World Baseball Classic. Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| My Habits Define Me | Weaponizing Your Mind | 11 Dec 2023 | 00:04:32 | |
Welcome to VeloUnlocked! Last time, we explored self-concept. Today, we're delving into how our behaviors shape reality. Your circumstances are a result of your actions – for instance, poor eating habits leading to weight issues. Life events can shift our identity, influencing behaviors in different areas. It's not about changing desires but dealing with emotions tied to trauma. While primitive emotions are beyond control, reactions and interpretations are in our hands. This week, review your arena list. Note habits and behaviors. Do they align with your desired identity? If not, decide who you want to be and shape your actions accordingly. Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| Discovering Who I Am | Weaponizing Your Mind | 03 Dec 2023 | 00:07:20 | |
Welcome to this week's episode, where we explore the journey of self-discovery. After completing the first step of awareness—ownership—it's time to define our authentic selves. In this episode, we discuss how we are a collection of stories that shape our interpretation of life events. These stories, influenced by how we perceive others' views of us, serve as a blueprint to understanding who we truly are. To conquer the quest of self-discovery, we delve into the three overlapping layers of our identity. The outermost layer is our external self, influenced by social contexts. The internal layer evolves as we work on ourselves, often revealed to those closest to us. The innermost layer is our innate and automated identity, rooted in personal evolution and experiences. To help you understand these layers, we provide actionable tasks at the end. List the different arenas in your life, describe your external and internal selves, explore potentially negative aspects, and recall instances that surprised you. Your self-concept is like a pie—unchangeable in size, but the distribution of its pieces can vary. By completing these tasks, you'll gain insight into the percentages each layer occupies in your self-concept pie. Join us on this journey of self-discovery, and stay tuned for next week as we explore living up to the identity you're striving for. Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| MLB Pitcher Tejay Antone Shares Game-Changing Advice with VeloU Athletes | 26 Nov 2024 | 00:47:36 | |
🎯 Get 2 weeks of FREE training at VeloU today! Click here to claim your spot: https://tinyurl.com/yc3fh833 Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| F*ck Luck | Weaponizing Your Mind | 27 Nov 2023 | 00:02:15 | |
Welcome to VeloUnlocked, the podcast that uncovers profound life lessons through a unique lens. In today's episode, we delve into the essence of luck, particularly as it manifests in the world of sports. We challenge the notion that luck is a chance occurrence, asserting instead that it is earned through thousands of hours of skill-oriented practice. Drawing inspiration from the lion, the animal kingdom's greatest hunter, we question whether the lion perceives its successful hunts as luck. Unlike us, the lion lacks ego, enabling it to own every action, including failures, and transform them into learning opportunities. As we explore this perspective, we challenge listeners to reflect on their own identities: are you the lion, mastering challenges through practice and self-awareness, or the prey relying on hope and luck? Join us on VeloUnlocked as we navigate the complexities of mastery, debunking the misconception that success is mere chance. In a society that often misunderstands preparedness as luck, we explore the transformative power of embracing one's identity, much like the lion in the wild. This episode invites you to ponder a fundamental question: are you the architect of your destiny, boldly navigating life's challenges with practiced skill, or are you the hopeful prey, relying on luck to navigate uncharted territories? Tune in for a compelling exploration of these themes and more on VeloUnlocked. Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| Ownership | Weaponizing Your Mind | 20 Nov 2023 | 00:04:17 | |
Join Dr. Nick Serio in "Weaponizing Your Mind," where radical ownership becomes a powerful daily practice. Dr. Serio explores the transformative impact of ownership, breaking free from excuses and empowering proactive identity shaping. Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| Behavioral Management | Weaponizing Your Mind | 13 Nov 2023 | 00:04:01 | |
Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| The Power to A.C.T. | Weaponizing Your Mind | 12 Nov 2023 | 00:03:26 | |
Welcome to the debut episode of Weaponizing Your Mind! In "The Power to Act," we unpack the core principles of our mindset methodology: ACT - Awareness, Consistency, and Tactical Control. Join us as we explore how self-awareness, consistency, and tactical control can transform your approach to life. Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| Supplements for Baseball Players - What we Recommend and Why | Tim Wilson | 14 Oct 2023 | 00:17:42 | |
In this episode we sit down with Tim Wilson, Director of Athletic Nutrition here at VeloU. In this short episode we discuss which supplements we recommend athletes be utilizing. Check it out! Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| Michael Lombardi - Freshman Year recap at Tulane | 28 Aug 2023 | 00:20:32 | |
In this episode we sit down with Michael Lombardi. Mike has been a VeloU athlete since its inception and this past spring, wrapped up his freshman season at Tulane. Mike is a 2-way player at Tulane, playing the infield and pitching for the Wave. Mike's final appearance of the season came in a regional game vs. LSU where he went 3.2IP allowing 1R and striking out 2. Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| FlexProGrip - Can it really Improve Spin Rate? | 07 Aug 2023 | 00:47:14 | |
FPG works by optimally targeting, strengthening, and improving the explosiveness of the muscles and tendons from the fingertips through the elbow. While each protocol has a different purpose and training effect, all protocols target the precise muscles and tendons in your forearm and hand that researchers have identified as being most important to protect your UCL from tearing and help you throw harder with enhanced spin rates and better command. Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| Sports Injuries and Elite Athlete Care: A Conversation with Dr. Brandon Erickson | 18 Jul 2023 | 00:32:42 | |
Join us in this episode as we sit down with Dr. Brandon Erickson, a highly respected board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports-related injuries of the shoulder, elbow, and knee. With his expertise and extensive experience, Dr. Erickson sheds light on the intricate world of sports medicine and provides valuable insights into the field. Having completed his residency in Orthopedic Surgery at Rush University Medical Center and a Sports Medicine fellowship at the renowned Hospital for Special Surgery, Dr. Erickson brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. During his fellowship, he had the privilege of serving as one of the assistant team physicians for the New York Mets, providing care to professional athletes at the highest level. In this engaging episode, we delve into Dr. Erickson's research efforts, which primarily focus on shoulder, knee, and elbow conditions, particularly those affecting throwing athletes. Through his collaboration with Major League Baseball, he has made significant contributions to understanding injury patterns and treatment outcomes in elite overhead athletes. Currently serving as one of the assistant team physicians for the Philadelphia Phillies, Dr. Erickson shares his experiences and insights gained from working with professional baseball players. Moreover, his involvement in the advisory committee for MLB Pitchsmart highlights his commitment to player safety and injury prevention. Tune in as we explore a wide range of topics with Dr. Erickson, including the importance of proper training for athletes. Whether you're a sports enthusiast, a healthcare professional, or simply curious about the world of sports medicine, this episode is packed with invaluable information and expert advice. Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| From Amateur to Pro: Unveiling Ryan Murphy's Inspiring Baseball Journey | SF Giants Prospect | 05 Jul 2023 | 00:23:08 | |
Join us for an exclusive podcast episode where we uncover the extraordinary ascent of Ryan Murphy, a promising talent in the SF Giants organization. Gain unparalleled insights into his remarkable journey, as he candidly answers fan questions, sharing personal anecdotes and insider strategies. Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| Jimmy Keenan DOMINATES Freshman Year of College | 21 Jun 2023 | 00:22:52 | |
In this episode we are joined by Jimmy Keenan. Jimmy has been an athlete with VeloU from day 1, joining us as a sophomore in HS in the summer of 2020. Jimmy has just wrapped up his freshman year at St. Johns university where he hit .343 with 11 doubles 6 homers and 30 RBI. Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| Becoming a Draft Pick with Justin Sanchez | 19 Jun 2024 | 00:30:29 | |
In this episode we are joined by Justin Sanchez, a LHP prospect in the Texas Rangers organization. Justin joined VeloU as a high school junior, looking for guidance on mechanical and velocity developments. Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| Dean Jackson - Mechanics, Injury and Training Adaptations | 01 Jun 2023 | 01:23:09 | |
Dean is a former MiLB pitcher with 5 arm surgeries under his belt. Fueled by his desire to finally get healthy, Dean spent 7 years at Driveline Baseball working in the Pitching, Strength and Conditioning, Physical Therapy, and R&D departments focused on improving the industry's approach to player development. As the Director of Special Projects at Driveline, Dean focused in on using biomechanics to map the kinetic chain in the pitching motion, revamped the industry standard return to throw protocol, and applied S&C concepts to throwing programs to increase athlete performance improvements. Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| The Ideal Supplement Stack for Baseball Players | 25 May 2023 | 00:17:42 | |
Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| The Truth Behind the Rankings (With Ben Badler) | 18 May 2023 | 00:45:26 | |
In this episode we are joined by Ben Badler. Ben has written about prospects for Baseball America since 2007. He covers minor league prospects, international signings, the MLB draft, and underclass high school prospects. Ben is also the co host of the Future Projection podcast. We hope you Enjoy. Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| Navigating Nutrition for Baseball Players | 01 May 2023 | 01:00:38 | |
In this episode, we dive into the world of baseball and nutrition with Tim Wilson, the Director of Athletic Nutrition at VeloU. We discuss why nutrition can be such a challenge for baseball players, and how a connection-based approach to nutrition can help players find the right fit for their unique needs and struggles. We break down the five pillars of nutrition, including calorie balance, macronutrients, micronutrients, meal timing, and supplements, and explain how each of these factors can impact performance on the diamond. Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| Best Ability is Availability (with Dr. Brett Poniros & Stephen Portee) | 12 Apr 2023 | 00:59:26 | |
In this episode, we delve into the performance world's fixation on increasing throwing velocity at any cost. We explore the potential dangers of this mindset, such as increased injury risk, and discuss the importance of availability as a key attribute that coaches and scouts value just as much, if not more than velocity. Join us as we talk with Dr. Brett Poniros @apollopcny and Stephen Portee @s_portee about how staying healthy and consistently being on the field can be the ultimate game-changer for any athlete's career. Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| The Power of Precise Progress - Duncan Davitt | 25 Apr 2024 | 00:44:43 | |
Welcome to VeloUnlocked, where we delve deep into the world of baseball, exploring the journeys of rising stars and seasoned professionals alike. In this episode, we have the privilege of sitting down with Duncan Davitt, a talented right-handed pitcher in the Tampa Bay Rays organization. Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| Why There's So Many Injuries Early in the Season | 19 Apr 2024 | 00:01:29 | |
Without a doubt, the number one is workload management. I mean, it's probably the reason you see injuries throughout the entire year, but it's ever more prevalent right in the beginning of the season. Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| How Boston Red Sox Prospect Stays Present | Brendan Cellucci | VeloUnlocked | 05 Apr 2024 | 00:45:18 | |
Get your FREE remote assessment for a limited time ✅ Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| Coaching, Mental Toughness, and Athletes’ Growth with Joe Brown | 13 Mar 2024 | 01:05:59 | |
In this episode of VeloUnlocked w/ Dr. Nick Serio, we’re joined by Joe Brown, the distinguished head coach of the Cortland Red Dragons. They discuss how Joe's unique approach to team culture and recruitment fuels Cortland Baseball's historic success, the power of internal growth and mental toughness in baseball, and what it takes to foster real champions. Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| Unlock Your Peak Performance Potential in Baseball with Tyler Anzmann | 22 Feb 2024 | 01:09:17 | |
In this episode of VeloUnlocked w/ Dr. Nick Serio, we’re joined by Tyler Anzmann, a professional baseball player, certified strength and conditioning specialist (CSCS), and Founder of Tyler Anzmann Performance. Join them as they:
With more than eight years of experience in sports performance, Tyler is dedicated to helping amateur and professional pitchers improve their velocity, health, and on-field performance. Before that, he worked with Loyola University’s Men’s Lacrosse team as a strength and conditioning coach and as a strength and conditioning and skill coach at the Florida Baseball Ranch. If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. Instructions on how to do this are here. Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| The Baseball Playground with Dr. Nick Serio | 14 Feb 2024 | 00:40:04 | |
In this bonus episode, here's a chance to listen to, our very own, Dr. Nick Serio's appearance on The Baseball Playground podcast. Recently, Nick jumped on the podcast to discuss innovative coaching strategies, how to throw harder and misconceptions people have now, and essential skills and techniques for aspiring baseball players and coaches. Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| Pressure Will Impact Performance | 08 May 2025 | 00:01:34 | |
In this episode, Nick and Tom Jankins, VeloU's Director of Pitching and former AAA pitcher with the Brewers, talk about how pressure affects performance. They break down how athletes can manage stress in high-pressure situations and perform at their best when it matters most. Watch to the full discussion on YouTube: Watch the full episode Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| Why Pitchers Struggle Under Pressure — and How to Fix It | 05 May 2025 | 00:03:54 | |
In this episode, we break down why so many pitchers struggle to throw strikes when the pressure is on — and how internal language and mindset are often the root cause. You'll learn about self-fulfilling prophecies, ironic process theory, and how future- or past-focused thinking can sabotage your performance. We also cover actionable strategies to fix it both on the mound and off, including simple in-game adjustments and nightly mental exercises that can sharpen your focus over time. Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| The New Approach to Velocity Development in College Baseball | 29 Apr 2025 | 00:04:49 | |
In this episode, we dive into how the landscape of college baseball recruiting is changing — and what that means for pitchers chasing velocity numbers. We discuss why the rush to hit 90 mph in high school may no longer be the only path, how the transfer portal is reshaping recruiting priorities, and why a longer-term development approach could lower injury risk and lead to better career outcomes. If you're serious about playing college baseball, this is a conversation you need to hear. Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| The Fingerprint of Velocity: Why Fastball Spin Starts in the Hand | 14 Aug 2025 | 00:03:39 | |
What role do your fingers play in velocity and spin? More than most pitchers and coaches realize. In this episode of Applied Baseball Science, Dr. Nicholas Serio of VeloU breaks down a 2024 study that used a sensor-embedded baseball to analyze finger strength, rate of force development (RFD), and anatomical structure in college pitchers — and how each contributes to fastball velocity and spin rate. 🔬 Key findings from the study:
This video explains:
If you’re chasing velocity, spin rate, or just trying to get more out of what your body already produces — don’t overlook the last thing that touches the baseball. 📌 Subscribe for more research-driven breakdowns from the VeloU team. 🎓 Learn more at https://www.velouniversity.com Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| Towel Drills Aren’t as “Low Stress” as You Think | 11 Aug 2025 | 00:05:13 | |
Towel drills are widely used as a “low-stress” tool in throwing programs — especially during rehab or mechanical refinement. But new research suggests they may not be as harmless as we think. In this episode of Applied Baseball Science, Dr. Nicholas Serio of VeloU breaks down a 2024 study that measured elbow valgus torque during towel drills and compared it to full-effort throws. What researchers found may surprise you:
If you’re using towel drills in a return-to-throwing plan, ramp-up progression, or rehab protocol, this video is a must-watch. Understanding what these drills actually do — biomechanically — could change how you approach recovery and arm care. 📌 Subscribe for more science-backed baseball insights from VeloU. 🎓 Learn more at https://www.velouniversity.com Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| Does Between Inning Cooling Actually Help Pitchers? | 09 Aug 2025 | 00:06:09 | |
One of baseball’s oldest beliefs says pitchers should keep their arms warm between innings. But what if cooling down actually helps? In this episode of VeloUnlocked, we break down a 2016 study where pitchers applied ice to their shoulder and forearm between innings—and ended up throwing harder, feeling better, and holding their velocity deeper into games. We cover what the study showed, possible reasons it worked, and how you can safely test this in your own training. Is it time to rethink your between-inning routine? Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| No Weights, No Velo: What Happens When Pitchers Only Throw | 08 Aug 2025 | 00:05:30 | |
What happens when pitchers stop lifting — but continue throwing? In this episode of Applied Baseball Science, Dr. Nicholas Serio of VeloU breaks down a revealing study that tracked NCAA Division I pitchers through an 8-week fall throwing program with no access to strength training. Despite structured mound work, progressive intensity, and live batters, the athletes experienced a 6.3 mph drop in fastball velocity — in just two months. Inside this video:
Whether you’re a pitcher managing in-season training or a coach building development plans, this episode unpacks why throwing alone isn’t enough — and what happens when the weight room is left behind. 📌 Subscribe for more science-backed breakdowns of what actually drives baseball performance. 🎓 Learn more at https://www.velouniversity.com Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||
| Why Warm-Weather Pitchers Undergo Tommy John Surgery Earlier — And Why That Matters | 06 Aug 2025 | 00:06:25 | |
Why are warm-weather pitchers undergoing Tommy John surgery earlier than their cold-weather peers? In this episode of Applied Baseball Science, Dr. Nicholas Serio of VeloU breaks down a recent NCAA D1 study that reveals a troubling trend: pitchers from warm-weather states experience UCL injuries at significantly younger ages — and that early breakdown may carry long-term consequences. This video explores:
Whether you’re a pitcher, parent, or coach, understanding when stress accumulates — and how to respond to it — is critical for injury prevention and sustainable performance. 📌 Subscribe to stay updated on how science is reshaping the modern game. 🎓 Learn more at https://www.velouniversity.com Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @velouniversity. | |||