Trainer Talks with Trainer Dave

EP 16: Anna Woods – sheSTRENGTH Founder, Coach, & Gym Owner

In this episode of Trainer Talks with Trainer Dave, Dave sits down with Anna Woods — founder of sheSTRENGTH and a seasoned coach with over 20 years of experience in the industry. They dive into Anna’s evolution as a trainer and gym owner, her unique approach to coaching, and the differences between college strength & conditioning and the private sector. Anna also shares valuable business insights and advice for introverted trainers trying to find their voice. Whether you're an athlete, parent, or coach, this episode is packed with practical takeaways you won’t want to miss. Connect with us: Anna Woods: https://www.instagram.com/sheSTRENGTH/ [https://www.instagram.com/sheSTRENGTH/] David Akao: https://www.instagram.com/davidakaotraining/ [https://www.instagram.com/davidakaotraining/]

EP 15: Gauge Harness, Engauged Media, Videographer, Entrepreneur

In this episode, Dave sits down with Gauge Harness, the creative mind behind Engauged Media. Gauge shares his journey as a young entrepreneur — including how he cold-called 180 businesses in his very first month — and how his business has grown rapidly over the last 10 months. He also talks about his experience shooting content for numerous gyms in the Wichita area, and offers cold-calling tips and advice for trainers, gym owners, and entrepreneurs trying to grow their brand. If you're looking to build your business or get inspired by someone who bet on himself and made it happen, this episode is a must-listen. Connect with us: Gauge Harness: https://www.instagram.com/gaugeharness/ [https://www.instagram.com/gaugeharness/] David Akao: https://www.instagram.com/davidakaotraining/ [https://www.instagram.com/davidakaotraining/]

EP 14: Chay Toson, Hitting Coach, CAGE2 Hitting

In this episode of Trainer Talks with Trainer Dave, Dave sits down with Chay Toson — Hitting Coach and owner of CAGE2 Hitting. Chay shares his journey from Hawaii to Kansas, his transition from collegiate baseball player to softball-focused coach, and what drives his passion for developing athletes. The two dive into the value of having an athletic background as a coach, navigating parent dynamics, and Chay’s long-term vision for CAGE2 Hitting. Whether you're an athlete, parent, or coach, you won’t want to miss this one. Connect with us: Chay Toson: https://www.instagram.com/sugarchay/ CAGE2 Hitting: https://www.instagram.com/cage2hitting/ David Akao: https://www.instagram.com/davidakaotraining/

EP 13: Alex Alton, LVL WOD, General Manager, Air Force Veteran

In this episode of Trainer Talks with Trainer Dave, Dave sits down with Alex Alton — Air Force Veteran and the General Manager & Director of Nutrition and Client Success at LVL WOD. Alex shares her nine-year journey in the coaching world, from starting out on the floor to becoming a Head Coach and eventually stepping into her leadership role. She and Dave dive into the growth of LVL WOD and its strong, supportive community, along with practical advice on sales, client retention, and how new coaches can stand out in a competitive industry. Whether you're a trainer or just passionate about personal growth in the fitness space, this one’s worth a listen. Connect with us: Alex Alton: https://www.instagram.com/alxzndria29 [https://www.instagram.com/alxzndria29] LVL WOD: https://lvl-wod.com/ [https://lvl-wod.com/] David Akao: https://www.instagram.com/davidakaotraining/ [https://www.instagram.com/davidakaotraining/]

EP 12: Cody Palmer, ICT Strength Company, The Phoenix, CrossFit Coach

In this episode of Trainer Talks with Trainer Dave, Dave sits down with Cody Palmer — Community Outreach Manager at The Phoenix and founder of ICT Strength Company. Cody shares his journey of working with The Phoenix over the past five years and how that experience led to the recent launch of his own business. In this conversation, he and Trainer Dave dive into the mission behind The Phoenix nonprofit, offering real talk on addiction recovery and the importance of community support. They also share valuable coaching and networking advice for both new and seasoned trainers looking to grow in the industry. Whether you're in the fitness world or passionate about community impact, this one’s worth a listen. Connect with us: ICT Strength Company: The Phoenix Wichita: https://www.facebook.com/thephoenixwichita/ David Akao: https://www.instagram.com/davidakaotraining/