How to Build Athlete Buy-In Within Your Training Facility: Matt Erdman, Veritas Athletic Performance

In this episode of The Speed Lab Podcast, guest host Darren Hansen sits down with coach and mentor Matt Erdman for a powerful conversation on the art of coaching. Matt Erdman Owns Veritas Athletic Performance and is a Universal Speed Rating Speed Lab Director. 

They dive deep into building trust with athletes, the power of positive communication, adapting coaching style to the individual, and why relationships—not just programming—drive long-term results. This episode is packed with practical insights for coaches, gym owners, and anyone looking to create a stronger training culture that actually lasts.

00:00 – Intro & why Matt Erdman stands out as a coach

03:30 – Opening a facility: lessons learned & early mistakes

06:20 – Systems, organization, and why clarity matters

07:20 – Transition into The Power of Positive Selection

11:10 – Coaching delivery, trust, and athlete relationships

14:15 – Universal Speed Rating milestone & impact

15:25 – Individualizing coaching styles (men vs women, personalities)

18:05 – Building culture & uniting rival athletes

21:10 – Being approachable without lowering standards

24:10 – Consistency, clarity, and losing athlete trust

27:20 – Coaching less, saying more with fewer words

29:15 – Meeting athletes where they are mentally & physically

33:10 – Creating “wins” even on bad training days

35:05 – Communicating progress to parents

37:20 – Building resilient athletes beyond speed & strength

39:15 – Final thoughts & closing remarks

If you'd like to learn more about how to working with Universal Speed Rating in your facility, schedule a call: https://universalspeedrating.com/learn-more-partner-with-universal-speed-rating-speed-lab-podcast