Applying Sports Science to Coaching with Dr. Faith Brown

On the latest edition of the Samson Strength Coach Collective, we sit down with Dr. Faith Brown to explore her journey from collegiate athlete to strength and conditioning coach and the role of sports science in everyday coaching. Faith reflects on the experiences that shaped her career, including a near-fatal car accident and the demands of pursuing a PhD while working full-time. Her story highlights the persistence required to keep learning while managing the responsibilities of coaching. The conversation also explores how research and load monitoring can inform training. Faith discusses evaluating new information, adapting as the field evolves, and translating data into practical insights for coaching staffs. She emphasizes making those insights small and digestible so coaches can understand and apply them. For coaches looking to strengthen the connection between research and practice, this episode offers perspective on education, communication, and continued professional growth. Key Takeaways: Persistence matters. Faith describes consistently showing up as an essential part of her journey. Research should inform practice. Consider how findings apply to the athletes and training environment in front of you. Load monitoring requires interpretation. Collecting information is one step; understanding what it means for training is another. Communication shapes how data gets used. Share clear, digestible insights that help coaches make decisions. Professional growth extends beyond training knowledge. Education and leadership development also deserve attention. Keep adapting. New research and technologies create opportunities to reassess and improve coaching practices. Quote: “It's about how you communicate and make small, digestible insights.”— Dr. Faith Brown