Sean Brosnan on Beyond Fast, Newbury Park, UCLA and What’s Next

We talk with Sean Brosnan, the coach behind Newbury Park High School’s historic cross country program and co-author of the new book with Chris Lear and Andrew Geif dropping today "Beyond Fast." Sean discusses his unconventional coaching journey, the making of a high school dynasty, and his philosophies on training, athlete development, and overcoming challenges. Special Offer: Sign up for the Supporters Club & Get Beyond Fast for Free Subscribe https://www.letsrun.com/subscribe for a year and receive a copy of "Beyond Fast" ($30 value) and the LetsRun shirt of your choice($30), plus access to exclusive live streams with Sean and Chris. Plus you get a bonus podcast from us every week. If you just want to buy the book on Amazon, click here . Show notes: 1:02 Introduction to Sean Brosnan Meet Sean and hear about his background, achievements at Newbury Park, and the new book "Beyond Fast." 2:10 Sean's Journey to Writing 'Beyond Fast' Sean shares what inspired him to write the book and what it was like working with co-authors Chris Lear and Andrew Grefe. 4:34 Sean's Unique Coaching Path From BMX to running, five colleges, and a winding road to coaching—Sean explains his unconventional journey and influences. 12:29 Innovative Training Methods Sean challenges conventional running wisdom, discusses his approach to mileage, and how he keeps athletes progressing year-round. 18:38 Building the Newbury Park Dynasty The early days at Newbury Park, earning buy-in from parents and athletes, and setting ambitious goals. 27:43 The Rise of Newbury Park's Fame The team’s growing popularity, social media, and the “4:20 isn’t fast” movement. 32:06 Sean's Departure from Newbury Park for UCLA Why Sean left for UCLA, the transition, and differences between high school and college coaching. 34:34 Challenges and Criticisms at Newbury Park Addressing common criticisms about athlete recruitment and the program’s success. 40:20 NCAA Violations and Legal Battle Sean discusses the NCAA investigation, his appeal, and the impact on his coaching career. 49:17 Current Coaching Endeavors and Future Plans Sean’s current work with post-collegiate athletes and plans for a new pro group. 52:28 Nico Young's Development and Potential Insights on coaching Nico Young and the development of elite talent. 58:27 Coaching Philosophy and Hard Workouts Sean’s belief in hard workouts, athlete individuality, and the balance between training and racing. 1:01:30 Conclusion and Book Promotion Final thoughts, where to find "Beyond Fast," and special offers for listeners. Notable Quotes “I always hate the word base phase. ... I like to do everything year round, and to me it's all progression.” (12:38) “You gotta get the parents' support. ... ” (15:59) “I love showing up. ... I love trying to figure out how to get someone faster.” (25:32) “It's not that hard to be good in high school. ... If you have five guys that run four 20, you're like a top team in the country.” (16:40) “I think people are so scared to push that red line of like, of really hard workouts. ... You gotta callous the system a little bit.” (59:06) Connect with Us: Website: letsrun.com Supporters Club: letsrun.com/subscribe Thanks for listening! Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the show. Contact us: Email podcast@letsrun.com or call/text 1-844-LETSRUN podcast voicemail/text line. Want a 2nd podcast every week? And savings on running shoes? Join the LetsRun.com Supporters Club today for exclusive content, a bonus weekly podcast, shoe savings, and more. Cancel anytime . https://www.letsrun.com/subscribe Check out the LetsRun.com store. https://shop.letsrun.com/ We've got the softest running shirts in the business. Thanks for listening. Please rate us on your podcast app and spread the word to friend. Find out more at http://podcast.letsrun.com Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/letsrun/3ff22b5e-a75b-47b2-84da-b4751ea0904f