MPE Podcast

MPE Pod: EP10, What Actually Shows Up In Season

This is the point in the season where development becomes real. You can do all the work you want in the offseason, but games show you what actually transfers. In this episode, we talk about: • What you learn about players in-season • Why confidence grows when something clicks • How development shows up under pressure It’s not just about reps. It’s about what carries over.

How Strength Coaches Can Individualize Training | Brice Johnson (Baylor S&C)

In this episode of the MPE Pod, we sit down with Brice Johnson, Head Strength & Conditioning Coach at Baylor School. Brice shares how he’s integrating Motor Preferences into the weight room and across multiple sports, and how it’s changed the way he evaluates movement, cues athletes, and individualizes training. We talk through: * Applying Motor Preferences in the weight room * Why athletes respond differently to the same lift * How to individualize without overcomplicating * What strength coaches often miss when it comes to movement A great listen for coaches looking to better understand the athlete in front of them and make more effective training decisions.

EP 8: Maryland Baseball Assistant Coach, Tommy Gardiner

In Episode 8 of the MPE Pod, we’re joined by Tommy Gardiner, Assistant Coach at Maryland Baseball and a key voice in the program’s defensive and offensive development. A former Terp infielder (2018–2021), Tommy helped lead Maryland back to a Regional as a player and has since helped guide the program to two Big Ten regular season championships and one Big Ten Tournament title as a coach. Under his tutelage, Maryland has produced seven All-Conference infielders since 2022, including 2023 Brooks Wallace Award winner Matt Shaw. Tommy was also the first coach outside of Coach Matt Swope to integrate Motor Preferences into daily practice, helping bridge traditional infield fundamentals with individualized movement-based development. In this episode, we discuss: • Tommy’s coaching journey and transition from player to coach • How he defines Motor Preferences • Applying MP to infield development • Building confident, consistent defenders • Structuring daily defensive work • Advice for young coaches and infielders This episode is a valuable listen for baseball coaches, infielders, and anyone interested in individualized player development and long-term growth.

EP7: Laura Heberling | Kansas Softball Associate Head Coach

In this episode of the MPE Pod, we sit down with Laura Heberling, Associate Head Coach at Kansas Softball and a pitching coach known for developing confident, high-level arms. Laura shares her coaching journey from Maryland to Kansas and explains how Motor Preferences became part of her approach through her relationship with Coach Matt Swope. She breaks down how MP applies to pitching, how it helps individualize development, and how coaches can support pitchers without over-coaching mechanics. The conversation dives into pitcher confidence, daily development, recruiting philosophy, and the lessons Laura has learned while working across multiple programs and roles. This episode is especially valuable for softball coaches, pitching coaches, and athletes looking to better understand individualized development and long-term growth.

EP 6: Chicago Cubs 3B, Matt Shaw

EP 6: Chicago Cubs 3B Matt Shaw In this episode of The MPE Pod, we sit down with Chicago Cubs third baseman Matt Shaw to break down what it takes to perform and stay consistent at the highest level of baseball. Matt shares how understanding his Motor Preferences gave him clarity around his movement, swing decisions, and preparation, helping him eliminate unnecessary trial and error as he transitioned from college baseball to the Major Leagues. We dive into the mental side of hitting, in-season adjustments, and why chasing universal mechanics often creates more problems than solutions. Topics include: • How Motor Preferences create a clear performance blueprint • Feel vs real and why cues matter in elite competition • Staying balanced and coordinated against high-level velocity • Making adjustments without losing your identity • Applying Motor Preferences beyond hitting, including defense • Advice for players navigating modern development and information overload This episode is a must-watch for players, coaches, and parents looking for a smarter, more sustainable approach to development and performance. 👍 If you enjoyed the episode, like the video, leave a comment, and subscribe for more conversations on performance, movement, and Motor Preferences.