How Sean Kao Built ASP: From a Parents' Garage to Training the World’s Best Swimmers | Ep. 291

How Sean Kao Built ASP: From a Parents' Garage to Training the World’s Best Swimmers | Ep. 291

Author: Social Kick April 9, 2026 Duration: 1:00:43
In this episode of the Social Kick Podcast, we sit down with Sean Kao, the founder and mastermind behind Aquatic Sports Performance (ASP). Sean has revolutionized the way elite swimmers approach the weight room, training some of the fastest athletes on the planet, including Caleb Dressel and Michael Andrew. Sean takes us through his journey from being a sprinter at Arizona State University under the legendary Bob Bowman to building a world-class training facility from a garage. We discuss his "Rate Limiting KPI" philosophy, the reality of "neural load" in sprinting, and the grit required to build a media brand and an elite pro group simultaneously. Whether you’re a coach, an athlete, or a swimming nerd, Sean Kao’s insights on the business and biology of fast swimming are a must-watch.

Dive into the water without getting your ears wet. Social Kick • Swim Culture & Stories is a space where the rhythm of the pool and the open water sets the pace for every conversation. Created by the community at Social Kick, this podcast moves beyond lap times and technique to explore the unique world that swimmers inhabit. Each episode features genuine discussions with people whose lives are deeply intertwined with swimming-from dedicated competitors and coaches to artists, scientists, and everyday enthusiasts who find their clarity in the water. You’ll hear personal stories of triumph and challenge, unexpected insights into how swimming shapes identity and community, and casual reflections on the quiet humor and profound peace found in a daily routine. It’s an authentic listen that captures the shared language and unspoken bonds of swim culture, offering a sense of connection for anyone who has ever felt most themselves while gliding through a lane or gazing at a horizon line from the beach. Tune in for a regular dose of perspective, camaraderie, and the simple, fun reminder of why we return to the water, again and again.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Social Kick • Swim Culture & Stories
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