Social Kick • Swim Culture & Stories
Social Kick 315 episodes Nov 4, 2026
Social Kick is a podcast about swimming culture and the stories of swimmers. Each episode features authentic, casual conversations with swimmers and people connected to the sport. The show explores training, competition, lifestyle, and the community around swimming. It aims to give listeners an inside, unfiltered look at the swimming world.
Episodes
France's Best Backstroker: Olympic Chaos, Léon Marchand, & World's Best Puller!?
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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, p
Pro Swimmers Reveal The Dark Side of Swimming: Burnout & The Pressure to Win
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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 th
3 Team USA Swimmers: World Cup Hospital Scare, Brutal Training & CSL
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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 goin
3 Pro Swimmers: Debate CSL, Prepping For Worlds, & Break Down Brutal Sets
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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.
Meanw
Season Pass: Our New Podcast Series
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
11x CSL Winner: “Nobody Told Me Zero Sprint Training Could Make Me This Fast”
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 gol
Olympic Butterfly Medalist Ilya Kharun: Canada to Team USA, Racing Dressel & 19.4 50y Fly
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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 abou
US National Team Coach: She Left Stanford to Fix What Swimming Won't Talk About
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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
College Swimming League CEO Breaks Down: Prize Money, New Meet Format & Launch Day Fears
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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 com
He Ripped 3 Tech Suits Before His Olympic Semifinal (Absolute Chaos)
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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.
🎧 Subscrib
How a PanPac Champion Bounced Back From a Concussion to Win Nationals
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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 p
IU's Head Sprint Coach: Breaking Records by Training Less Than Everyone Else
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, ex
Rowan Cox: Breaking NAG Records & Training at Texas | Episode 312
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
Chad le Clos’s Epic Swimming Career | Social Kick Ep. 311
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, fin
João Mescolote: Behind the Scenes on a 6,500-Mile Swim Tour | Episode 310
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
Kurt Mills Hanson on Swimming Commentary, Tennis-Style Majors, and Bold Solutions to Fix Swimming. Ep 309
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 th
Anna Moesch: The Massive Training Changes Behind Her Record-Breaking Freestyle Surge: Episode 308
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
From Fiji to 18 Seconds: ASU's Tolu Young on "Ultra Sprint" & The McEvoy Method | Episode 306
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
Liberty Clark: How 4-Day-a-Week Training Built a 1:39 200 Freestyler | Episode 305
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
Sam Short on Sweeping the Distance Freestyles, World Record Pacing & Nutrition | Episode 304
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
Grant House on NIL, Enhanced Games & the Future of Swimming | Episode 303
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 wor
The Secret to Josh Matheny's Breaststroke (And Why He Breathes Like That!) | Episode 302
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 ope
Van Mathias on Sprint Swimming, Heavy Lifting & Balancing a Full-Time Job | Episode 301
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 founda
Anna Peplowski on Pro Swimmer Salaries, The 200 Free Boom & LA 2028 | Episode 300
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,
Underwater Masterclass & Beyond: Tom Shields on Clinics, Surfing, and Mental Health | Episode 299
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 und
Summer League for Adults! The Rise of Grown-Up Swimming with Brian Robbins | Episode 298
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 growt
Thomas Heilman & Maximus Williamson: UVA’s Lane 8 Titles & The Tattoo Promise | Episode 297
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 Butterfl
Julian Koch on the Transfer Portal, 20lbs of Muscle, and Finding a New Home| Episode 296
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 vi
David Johnston Discusses Moving to Florida & Exploring NIL Money in Swimming | Episode 295
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 ult
The Josh Bey "Barracuda" Mentality: From Freshman Struggles to NCAA SilverJosh Bey | Episode 293
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
Kacper Stokowski on Leveling Up Athlete Mentorship & The Future of NIL | Episode 293
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. Kacp
How Sean Kao Built ASP: From a Parents' Garage to Training the World’s Best Swimmers | Ep. 291
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 t
NCAA Format Shakeup: Why We Need B-Finals Back & The Combined 6-Day "Dream Meet" | Episode 292
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-fin
Isabelle Stadden: UVA Reset, Breaking a 5-Year Plateau & The "Traumatic" Murphy Sets | Ep. 290
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 a
Anastasia Gorbenko on IM Training, Pro to NCAA Transition & Breaststroke Flip Turns | Ep. 289
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
Daniel & Nathan Wiffen: The 15-Hour Recovery Secret Behind 1500m Greatness | Social Kick Ep. 288
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
Gabe Jett: Breaking the Yips, Elite Underwaters, and Finding Identity Beyond Swimming | Episode 287
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 meter
Charlotte Crush: The #1 Recruit, Team USA, and Building Her Own Legacy
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 ev
Jacob Mills: The 6'6" British Sprint Phenom Chasing Olympic Glory
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 — cut
Ryan Erisman: Beating Olympians & a Breakout Freshman Season at Cal
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
Skyler Smith: Breaststroke, Confidence & Racing In-Season Ep. 283
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
Andy Donaldson: Ultramarathon Swimming, Purpose & 4 Minutes From a World Record | Ep. 282
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 ho
Eva Okaro on NCAA Swimming, Texas Culture & Breaking Records as a Freshman | Social Kick Ep. 281
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 dail
Dave Durden: How Cal Swimming Builds Champions & Winning Culture. Ep 280
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
Swimming’s Best, Worst, and Weirdest Moments of 2025. Episode 279
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 i
John Shortt: World Junior Gold, Elite Backstroke Turns, and Ireland’s Breakout Moment. Ep 278
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 tec
Will Modglin: American Records, the 20.00 Barrier, and Redefining NCAA Backstroke Episode 277
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
Sven Schwarz on 100K Weeks, Elite Distance Training, the Rise of Men’s Distance Swimming | Ep. #276
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 skipp
Todd DeSorbo: Building a Swimming Dynasty at Virginia | NCAA, Olympics, & Men’s New Era | Ep 275
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, insightfu
Matt Kredich: How Tennessee Built Champions, Culture & Olympic Stars | Episode 274
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 che
Just the Guys! Swim News, Records & Hot Takes | Episode 273
Just the guys this week! Luke, Bryan, and John are back in classic Social Kick mode — no guests, no script, just pure swim talk.
The crew catches up on everything happening across the swim world: new records in China and Russia, Summer McIntosh’s big move to Arena, college season chaos, and even a few triathlon and high school highlights. It’s the kind of episode that feels like hanging out with y
Nikita Sheremet: World Junior Champ & Louisville Sprint Star | Episode 272
Ukraine’s next great sprinter joins The Social Kick! 🇺🇦
Nikita Sheremet is the World Junior Champion and Record Holder in the 50 freestyle (21.75) — tying Michael Andrew’s World Junior Record last summer. Now racing for the University of Louisville, he’s already made waves in the NCAA with a 19.28 freshman record and big goals for the European Championships.
In this episode, Nikita shares his rema
Greg Harper, from Cal Swimmer to Pro Triathlete on Kona, Training & Triathlon Truths | Ep. 271
Former Cal swimmer Greg Harper is now one of the best swimmers in triathlon — leading out the swim at the 2024 IRONMAN 70.3 World Championships and chasing the Kona swim course record next year.
In Episode 271 of The Social Kick Podcast, Greg joins us to talk about his journey from NCAA swimming to pro triathlon, what triathletes often get wrong about swim training, and how fatherhood has changed
World Cup Recap: 5 World Records & Wild Finishes w/ Bobby Hurley | Social Kick 270
The 2025 Swimming World Cup wrapped up with one of the fastest nights in history — five world records in a single session! 🏊♂️
In this episode, former world champion and commentator Bobby Hurley joins The Social Kick crew to break down the epic Toronto finale and the standout moments from three incredible weeks of racing.
We dive into the biggest performances, the prize money race, surprises
Tommy Neill: The Aussie Olympian Finding His Fire Again | Episode 269
Australian Olympian Tommy Neill joins The Social Kick to talk about his journey from back-to-back Olympic bronze medals to a much-needed reset. After stepping away to recover from injury and refocus on life, Tommy’s back training with a sharper mindset and fresh motivation. We dive into his comeback, the grind of elite swimming in Australia, and what’s next for this two-time Olympic medalist.
Bryn Greenwaldt: From DII Record Breaker to UVA Cavalier Episode 268
Before joining the powerhouse Virginia Cavaliers, Bryn Greenwaldt was already making NCAA history — becoming the first woman in Division II to break 22 seconds in the 50 freestyle while also competing as an All-American high jumper.
Now beginning her fifth year and first season in Division I swimming, Bryn brings a unique two-sport background, combining explosive athleticism with the mindset of a
2025 World Cup Breakdown with Bobby Hurley | Expert Take from a Swimming Commentator Episode 267
We’re diving into the 2025 World Aquatics World Cup with Bobby Hurley — former world champion swimmer, World Cup star, and one of the sharpest voices in swimming commentary.
From his unique insider perspective, Bobby breaks down everything that makes this year’s World Cup series so compelling: the new format, prize money, and its place in the global swimming calendar. We compare today’s three-stop
Sam Short: The Grind, the Mindset, and the Future of Distance Swimming Episode 266
2023 World Champion 🏆 and Olympic medalist Sam Short joins The Social Kick Podcast for a deep dive into what drives one of the world’s best distance swimmers.
Sam’s already redefining what it means to go the distance — from his brutal training sets that have become the stuff of legend, to the mental toughness it takes to dominate the 400 and 1500 on the world stage.
In this episode, Sam talks abou
Luka Mijatovic: 16-Year-Old Swim Phenom on Worlds, Recruiting & the 400 Free | Episode 265
At just 16 years old, Luka Mijatovic became the fastest 18 & under swimmer ever in the United States. After a breakthrough summer, he earned a spot on his first senior international team and represented Team USA at the World Championships.
In this episode, Luka opens up about:
The tough lessons learned after a team-wide illness left him drained at Worlds 🌍
His college recruiting journey, w
Rylee Erisman Returns: 8 Medals at World Juniors & Her College Recruiting Journey Episode 264
Rylee Erisman is back on Social Kick! Fresh off a historic summer at the World Junior Championships, Rylee won 8 medals (5 gold, 3 silver), including individual titles in the 50 and 100 freestyle. She capped the meet with an unforgettable triple in the final session—winning 2 events and medaling in all 3 races in less than an hour.
In this episode, Rylee reflects on what she learned from her break
McKenzie Siroky: Hockey Roots, Breaststroke Speed & Tennessee Swimming | Episode #263
McKenzie Siroky’s journey from hockey rinks to Team USA swimming is anything but typical. A breakout sprint breaststroker, McKenzie talks about her path to the World Championships, training and racing at Tennessee, and how lifting and explosive power fuel her speed. She shares stories from recruiting, gap year choices, and quirky behind-the-block rituals, while opening up about the challenges of r
Brett Hawke | Enhanced Games Head Coach on Ben Proud, Swimming’s Future & Athlete Debate Episode 262
Brett Hawke is back—now as Head Coach of swimming for the Enhanced Games. He talks about the bold move to join the Games, the signing of Ben Proud, athlete health vs. shortcuts, and why sprint events and new formats could change the sport.
Ben Proud and The Enhanced Games | Olympic Medalist Joins Controversial League | Episode 261
Olympic medalist and World Champion Ben Proud has stunned the swimming world by retiring from professional swimming to join the controversial Enhance Games. In this episode of The Social Kick Podcast, we break down what this means for the sport:
Why Proud’s decision is so shocking
The reaction from governing bodies like Aquatics GB
Whether clean athletes can compete in Enhance Games
What t
Jack Alexy - American Record Holder on 45.9 Relay Split, 100 Free Training & Worlds - Episode 260
Jack Alexy is back on Social Kick! Fresh off Worlds, the American record holder dives into the mindset shift that unlocked his 46s—and that wild 45.9 relay split.
We break down how 200 free training boosted his 100, the backend-50 sets he loves, and why slowing his tempo led to his fastest swim of the year. Jack also shares thoughts on Team USA’s performances in Paris and Singapore, Pan Pacs selec
Jamie Jack Talks 50 Free, Dean Boxall Training & Australian Sprint Swimming Episode 259
Australian sprinter Jamie Jack joins Social Kick fresh off a breakout season! We talk sprint training at St. Peters with Dean Boxall, racing the 50 free, working alongside Cam McEvoy, and the mindset behind becoming one of the world’s next great sprinters.
Tommy Janton on Team USA Breakout, Crocodile Man Nickname & Worlds Medal Moments Episode 258
Fresh off a breakout summer on Team USA, Tommy Janton joins Social Kick to talk about his wild ride through Worlds, winning a U.S. national title from lane one, and embracing the nickname “Crocodile Man.”
We get into everything from goggle strap fashion faux pas to Shake Shack saves during team illness, plus why Tommy’s sticking with goggles-over-the-cap no matter what anyone says. He reflects on
Ahmed Jaouadi: Double World Champion’s Rise & Training Secrets Episode 257
Fresh off his double World Championship titles in the 800 and 1500 freestyle, Tunisia’s Ahmed Jaouadi joins Social Kick! We talk about the meteoric rise that took him from an 8:02 800 to 7:36 in just one year, what it’s like going toe-to-toe with world record holder Bobby Finke, and why his turns still suck (his words, not ours).
Ahmed shares his thoughts on racing strategy, aura farming, and his
Solo Swims, Dressel's Return & Mustache Magic, TYR Summer National Champs Recap - Episode 256
The TYR Summer Championships are here, and we have some hot takes. Bryan and John break down everything from the solo swims in the C finals to the most unexpected performances of the night.
In this episode we discuss:
The Solo Swims - When only one swimmer shows up to a final...is there a name for that? What's the longest solo swim you'd be willing to do? We get weird on this one.
The Return of Ca
2025 World Champs Recap: McIntosh Magic, Marchand’s 1:52, USA WR & Relay Chaos Episode 255
The 2025 World Championships are in the books, and we've got takes. Who delivered, who flopped, and what the heck happened to all those prelims relay lineups?
John and Luke kick off the recap with taper talk and a few questionable Masters training choices before diving deep into the biggest storylines from Singapore: Summer McIntosh’s incredible meet and emotional rollercoaster, Léon Marchand’s st
Grant House Unfiltered: NCAA Lawsuit, ASU Training, & Athlete Power Episode 253
Grant House joins Social Kick fresh off a season of huge personal bests at US Nationals! The multi-talented swimmer is well known for his leadership at ASU and, of course, his role as the lead plaintiff in the landmark NCAA antitrust lawsuit 'House v. NCAA' which bears his name.
Grant unpacks the unfiltered truth about the lawsuit and its origins, how he has dealt with public backlash, and why he
Anna Moesch Breaks Out for Team USA - Episode 252
Rising Team USA talent, Anna Moesch, joins Social Kick fresh off a breakthrough performance at US Nationals where she made her first senior national team with a 6th place finish in a 100 freestyle final stacked with her Virginia Cavalier teammates. Anna tells us about her unorthodox 100 free preparation that led to a massive personal best and what she's most excited about as she prepares to repres
Santo Condorelli on Going 21.6, Embracing Pain & The Truth About Pro Swimming - Episode 251
Santo Condorelli, a man of many countries and an Olympic finalist, joins Social Kick! We discuss Santo’s unique journey, from brutal high school sets to a stunning 21.6 in the 50 Free, earning him a spot on the US World Championship team.
Santo shares his philosophical approach to training, why he embraces the "hardest" path, and how an unexpected mindset shift led to his recent personal best. W
Patrick Sammon: US Sprinting's Rising Force - Episode 250
On this episode of Social Kick we’re joined by rising American sprinter Patrick Sammon, fresh off a breakout season that’s turned heads in the swimming world with his 47-low 100 freestyle at US Nationals that not only earned him earned him a spot on his first World Championship team, he also earned an individual swim and likely spot on US relays as well. Already a standout NCAA finalist and relay
Abby Herscu’s Breakout Season & Team USA Debut
Cal standout and rising Team USA breaststroker Abby Herscu joins Social Kick fresh off a breakout season that earned her a spot at the 2025 World University Games in Berlin. We dive into Abby’s journey from an age grouper to the NCAA Championship final and her huge personal best in the 200 breaststroke at U.S. Trials—dropping nearly 3.5 seconds to post one of the fastest U.S. times of the year.
Ab
Campbell McKean: From Junior Sensation to World Stage- Episode 248
He just went 58 in the 100 breaststroke! Campbell McKean, the breakout breaststroker who skipped the 59-second barrier entirely, joins us fresh off his electrifying performance at US Nationals.
This ascending American star shares the inside story of winning both sprint breaststroke events and becoming the fastest 18-year-old ever in the 100 breaststroke. We discuss grueling training sets that forg
Ashley Twichell - Mom and Olympian, not slowing down - Episode 247
Faster everywhere she goes
It took a few attempts and many years before Ashley Twichell eventually became an Olympian at age 32, the oldest first time Olympian on the US team in Tokyo, but that wasn’t what she set out to achieve anyway. In this episode, we check in with Ashley a few weeks after giving birth to her 2nd child, which took place during the Kentucky Derby!
We cover everything from her
Leanne Smith - Superstar Paralympian - Episode 246
Three world records in one day?!?!
Superstar paralympian Leanne Smith may be on the best form of her career following her recent performance at the World Series stop in Indianapolis where she won 5 events and broke 3 world records in the 50, 100, and 200 free with all records happening on the same day!
Following her diagnosis with dystonia, Leanne discovered swimming as part of her rehab but
Oliver Morgan Team GB’s Backstroke Star Chasing History - Episode 245
Team GB’s backstroker has arrived, and he’s one of the world’s best. Oliver Morgan has been on a rapid rise the last few years including an assault on the British record in the 100 backstroke and now has won the backstroke treble twice at his country’s championship meet. Only fully committing to swimming around age 18, the now 21 year old recently dropped his best time in the 100 to 52.1, close en
Enhanced Games - Pros and Cons - Live Discussion: Episode 244
With all the conversation surrounding the Enhanced Games, we decided to hop on a live show to discuss the pros, cons, and everything in between!
Enjoy and don't forget to subscribe for weekly podcasts and daily shorts!
Becca Mann: From Child Prodigy to Swimming Legend, Memoir, Comeback & the Maui Nui | Episode 243
From crossing the Maui channel at age 10 to rocking the American flag cap for Team USA to becoming the first and only person to complete the Maui Nui triple crossing, Becca Mann has lived a swimming life full of triumphs and tribulations too good not to share with the world, so the accomplished novelist and screenwriter pivoted to non-fiction and wrote a memoir - Outside the Lanes: A Pro Swimmer’s
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