Braun Performance and Rehab

Michael MacPherson: Pressure That Performs: BFR for Elite Adaptations

In this episode of the Braun Performance & Rehab Podcast, Dan is joined by Michael MacPherson to discuss BFR training (Blood flow restriction) adaptations, including endurance gains and other physiological considerations. Dr. Michael MacPherson’s diverse background in college athletics, education, coaching, and surgical consulting has given him a unique perspective on human performance, rehabilitation, and recovery. His work spans from training high-level athletes to helping individuals regain function after surgery—all with a focus on optimizing results through innovative methods like Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) training. Dr. MacPherson has worked with individuals across the lifespan, from children as young as three to adults in their nineties. His passion for health and performance began as a collegiate football player at Michigan Technological University. After his playing career ended, he transitioned into strength and conditioning, coaching at both Michigan Tech and the University of Toledo. He then spent a decade teaching and coaching at the high school level, where he built a speed and strength program that expanded to serve athletes from elementary school through high school. He also began virtual training, programming, and consulting, working with teams and athletes. After 10 years in the weight room, Dr. MacPherson shifted his focus to sports medicine, working as a surgical consultant in the operating room. Observing procedures like ACL reconstructions, meniscus repairs, rotator cuff repairs, femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) corrections, and lateral ankle reconstructions firsthand, he became increasingly focused on rehabilitation strategies tailored to each surgery and patient. It was in the operating room that he discovered Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) training and its ability to enhance recovery, build strength, and accelerate rehabilitation with minimal mechanical stress. Once he understood the benefits of BFR, there was no turning back. He has since dedicated himself to educating thousands of athletic trainers, physical therapists, and strength coaches on the science and application of BFR. Recognizing that education is a major barrier preventing many from utilizing this powerful tool, he has immersed himself in research and outreach to bridge the gap between science and practice. For more on Michael, be sure to check out clinicalbfr.com and @clinicalbfr and @dr_macpherson on Instagram! *SEASON 6 of the Braun Performance & Rehab Podcast is brought to you by Isophit. For more on Isophit, please check out isophit.com and @isophit -BE SURE to use coupon code BraunPR25% to save 25% on your Isophit order! **Season 6 of the Braun Performance & Rehab Podcast is also brought to you by Firefly Recovery, the official recovery provider for Braun Performance & Rehab. For more on Firefly, please check out https://www.recoveryfirefly.com/ or email jake@recoveryfirefly.com ***This episode is also powered by Dr. Ray Gorman, founder of Engage Movement. Learn how to boost your income without relying on sessions. Get a free training on the blended practice model by following @raygormandpt on Instagram. DM my name “Dan” to @raygormandpt on Instagram and receive your free breakdown on the model. Episode Affiliates: MoboBoard: BRAWNBODY10 saves 10% at checkout! AliRx: DBraunRx = 20% off at checkout! https://alirx.health/ MedBridge: https://www.medbridgeeducation.com/brawn-body-training or Coupon Code "BRAWN" for 40% off your annual subscription! CTM Band: https://ctm.band/collections/ctm-band coupon code "BRAWN10" = 10% off! Ice shaker affiliate link: https://www.iceshaker.com?sca_ref=1520881.zOJLysQzKe Make sure you SHARE this episode with a friend who could benefit from the information we shared! Check out everything Dan is up to by clicking here: https://linktr.ee/braun_pr Liked this episode? Leave a 5-star review on your favorite podcast platform

Meghan Sak-Ocbina: Rebuilding the Postpartum Athlete & Postpartum Performance

In this episode of the Braun Performance & Rehab Podcast, Dan is joined by Meghan Sak-Ocbina to discuss performance in the postpartum athlete. Meghan is a physical therapist, strength coach, and the powerhouse behind some of the most practical, empowering education in the pregnancy and postpartum space. Working predominantly online, she coaches athletes, active women, and new moms all over the world through evidence-based programming that blends performance training with realistic, real-life motherhood demands. Her signature offerings — including Barbell Before Baby, Postpartum Rebuild, and Busy Mom Rebuild — were shaped not only by her clinical expertise, but by her own journey through a complicated pregnancy, early postpartum challenges, and the process of rebuilding strength and identity with her daughter, Ella, by her side. Meghan’s transparent storytelling, myth-busting approach, and refusal to fearmonger have made her one of the most trusted voices in the perinatal performance realm. Whether she’s debunking misinformation, teaching pressure management, or reminding moms that “slow is fast,” her mission remains the same: help women feel strong, capable, and confident during every stage of pregnancy and beyond. Connect with her on Instagram at @dr.megsi.dpt for training tips, postpartum education, and a refreshingly honest look at motherhood and movement. *SEASON 6 of the Braun Performance & Rehab Podcast is brought to you by Isophit. For more on Isophit, please check out isophit.com and @isophit -BE SURE to use coupon code BraunPR25% to save 25% on your Isophit order! **Season 6 of the Braun Performance & Rehab Podcast is also brought to you by Firefly Recovery, the official recovery provider for Braun Performance & Rehab. For more on Firefly, please check out https://www.recoveryfirefly.com/ or email jake@recoveryfirefly.com ***This episode is also powered by Dr. Ray Gorman, founder of Engage Movement. Learn how to boost your income without relying on sessions. Get a free training on the blended practice model by following @raygormandpt on Instagram. DM my name “Dan” to @raygormandpt on Instagram and receive your free breakdown on the model. Episode Affiliates: MoboBoard: BRAWNBODY10 saves 10% at checkout! AliRx: DBraunRx = 20% off at checkout! https://alirx.health/ MedBridge: https://www.medbridgeeducation.com/brawn-body-training or Coupon Code "BRAWN" for 40% off your annual subscription! CTM Band: https://ctm.band/collections/ctm-band coupon code "BRAWN10" = 10% off! Ice shaker affiliate link: https://www.iceshaker.com?sca_ref=1520881.zOJLysQzKe Make sure you SHARE this episode with a friend who could benefit from the information we shared! Check out everything Dan is up to by clicking here: https://linktr.ee/braun_pr Liked this episode? Leave a 5-star review on your favorite podcast platform

Sharla Peterson: Broken Back, Unbroken Drive: Rise From Injury to IFBB Pro

In this episode of the Braun Performance & Rehab Podcast, Dan is joined by Sharla Peterson to discuss her journey as a bodybuilder athlete. Sharla Peterson is an IFBB Pro wheelchair bodybuilder whose journey embodies resilience, reinvention, and elite performance. A lifelong athlete from Omaha, Nebraska, Sharla began in competitive aerobics before earning her degree in Occupational Therapy from USC, raising five children, and later entering the bodybuilding world in 2022. After an impressive rookie year—five shows and a 2nd-place finish at NPC Nationals—her momentum shifted when a Smith machine accident caused an L1 burst fracture, leaving her with an incomplete spinal cord injury. Instead of stepping away, she rebuilt her life and training from the ground up, adapting every aspect of her routine while refusing to let adversity define her. Sharla returned to the stage stronger than ever, ultimately earning her IFBB Pro Card and becoming one of the few women competing at the highest level of wheelchair bodybuilding. Whether she’s preparing for guest posing at the Olympia, educating others on safe lifting mechanics, or inspiring the next generation—including her own children—Sharla continues to redefine what is possible through discipline, mindset, and unwavering drive. Follow her journey on Instagram at @ifbbpro_fit_chick_onwheelz *SEASON 6 of the Braun Performance & Rehab Podcast is brought to you by Isophit. For more on Isophit, please check out isophit.com and @isophit -BE SURE to use coupon code BraunPR25% to save 25% on your Isophit order! **Season 6 of the Braun Performance & Rehab Podcast is also brought to you by Firefly Recovery, the official recovery provider for Braun Performance & Rehab. For more on Firefly, please check out https://www.recoveryfirefly.com/ or email jake@recoveryfirefly.com ***This episode is also powered by Dr. Ray Gorman, founder of Engage Movement. Learn how to boost your income without relying on sessions. Get a free training on the blended practice model by following @raygormandpt on Instagram. DM my name “Dan” to @raygormandpt on Instagram and receive your free breakdown on the model. Episode Affiliates: MoboBoard: BRAWNBODY10 saves 10% at checkout! AliRx: DBraunRx = 20% off at checkout! https://alirx.health/ MedBridge: https://www.medbridgeeducation.com/brawn-body-training or Coupon Code "BRAWN" for 40% off your annual subscription! CTM Band: https://ctm.band/collections/ctm-band coupon code "BRAWN10" = 10% off! Ice shaker affiliate link: https://www.iceshaker.com?sca_ref=1520881.zOJLysQzKe Make sure you SHARE this episode with a friend who could benefit from the information we shared! Check out everything Dan is up to by clicking here: https://linktr.ee/braun_pr Liked this episode? Leave a 5-star review on your favorite podcast platform

Brett Jones: Beyond the Swing: The True Power of the Kettlebell

In this episode of the Braun Performance & Rehab Podcast, Dan is joined by Brett Jones for a deep dive into the kettlebell and kettlebell training. Brett Jones, MS, ATC, CSCS, is a Certified Athletic Trainer and Strength and Conditioning Specialist based in Pittsburgh, PA. Mr. Jones holds a Bachelor of Science in Sports Medicine from High Point University, a Master of Science in Rehabilitative Sciences from Clarion University of Pennsylvania, and is a Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) from the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). Brett has worked with strong first in addition to working as a presenter and advisory board member for Functional Movement Systems. With over 25 years of experience, Brett has been sought out to consult with professional teams and athletes, as well as present throughout the United States and internationally. As an Athletic Trainer who has transitioned into the fitness industry, Brett has taught kettlebell techniques and principles since 2003. He has taught for Functional Movement Systems (FMS) since 2006, and has created multiple DVDs and manuals with world-renowned physical therapist Gray Cook, including the widely-praised “Secrets of…” series. Brett continues to evolve his approach to training and teaching, and is passionate about improving the quality of education for the fitness industry. He is available for consultations and distance coaching on Instagram @brettjonessfg *SEASON 6 of the Braun Performance & Rehab Podcast is brought to you by Isophit. For more on Isophit, please check out isophit.com and @isophit -BE SURE to use coupon code BraunPR25% to save 25% on your Isophit order! **Season 6 of the Braun Performance & Rehab Podcast is also brought to you by Firefly Recovery, the official recovery provider for Braun Performance & Rehab. For more on Firefly, please check out https://www.recoveryfirefly.com/ or email jake@recoveryfirefly.com ***This episode is also powered by Dr. Ray Gorman, founder of Engage Movement. Learn how to boost your income without relying on sessions. Get a free training on the blended practice model by following @raygormandpt on Instagram. DM my name “Dan” to @raygormandpt on Instagram and receive your free breakdown on the model. Episode Affiliates: MoboBoard: BRAWNBODY10 saves 10% at checkout! AliRx: DBraunRx = 20% off at checkout! https://alirx.health/ MedBridge: https://www.medbridgeeducation.com/brawn-body-training or Coupon Code "BRAWN" for 40% off your annual subscription! CTM Band: https://ctm.band/collections/ctm-band coupon code "BRAWN10" = 10% off! Ice shaker affiliate link: https://www.iceshaker.com?sca_ref=1520881.zOJLysQzKe Make sure you SHARE this episode with a friend who could benefit from the information we shared! Check out everything Dan is up to by clicking here: https://linktr.ee/braun_pr Liked this episode? Leave a 5-star review on your favorite podcast platform

Jessica Monroe: Pulsed EMF for Enhancing Recovery in High Performers

In this episode of the Braun Performance & Rehab Podcast, Dan is joined by Jessica Monroe to discuss Pulsed Electro Magnetic Fields (pEMF) and the role of pEMF devices in recovery and performance. Specifically their conversation references the HAELO product. Jessica Monroe is the Head of Performance at HAELO, where they are redefining what recovery and performance can look like through PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field) technology. Her work centers around helping people understand how frequencies support the body at the cellular level to improve recovery, resilience, and overall performance. Jessica studied Finance and Management at the University of Colorado Boulder, but she has always been drawn to wellness and human optimization - really, what it means to feel good on every level: physically, mentally, and energetically. These days, Jessica gets to work with athletes and wellness leaders who share that same passion. It’s amazing to see how HAELO and PEMF therapy are reshaping the way people think about recovery and performance. At its core, it’s simply about helping people feel and function better every day. At HAELO, we’re taking a technology once used mostly by pros and clinicians and translating it into a seamless, at-home experience that helps anyone train smarter, recover faster, and live in sync with their body’s natural rhythms. For more on HAELO, be sure to check out https://www.haelo.com/ and @haelo_social *SEASON 6 of the Braun Performance & Rehab Podcast is brought to you by Isophit. For more on Isophit, please check out isophit.com and @isophit -BE SURE to use coupon code BraunPR25% to save 25% on your Isophit order! **Season 6 of the Braun Performance & Rehab Podcast is also brought to you by Firefly Recovery, the official recovery provider for Braun Performance & Rehab. For more on Firefly, please check out https://www.recoveryfirefly.com/ or email jake@recoveryfirefly.com ***This episode is also powered by Dr. Ray Gorman, founder of Engage Movement. Learn how to boost your income without relying on sessions. Get a free training on the blended practice model by following @raygormandpt on Instagram. DM my name “Dan” to @raygormandpt on Instagram and receive your free breakdown on the model. Episode Affiliates: MoboBoard: BRAWNBODY10 saves 10% at checkout! AliRx: DBraunRx = 20% off at checkout! https://alirx.health/ MedBridge: https://www.medbridgeeducation.com/brawn-body-training or Coupon Code "BRAWN" for 40% off your annual subscription! CTM Band: https://ctm.band/collections/ctm-band coupon code "BRAWN10" = 10% off! Ice shaker affiliate link: https://www.iceshaker.com?sca_ref=1520881.zOJLysQzKe Make sure you SHARE this episode with a friend who could benefit from the information we shared! Check out everything Dan is up to by clicking here: https://linktr.ee/braun_pr Liked this episode? Leave a 5-star review on your favorite podcast platform