Strength Built to Last with Jerry Simmons
Fri Feb 06 2026
In this episode of the Samson Strength Coach Collective, Jerry Simmons shares a lifetime of lessons learned through strength coaching at every level—from college football and the NFL to Special Forces training. Growing up on a farm instilled a work ethic that shaped his coaching philosophy and expectations. Jerry reflects on mentorship, athlete evaluation, equipment quality, and the relationships that define a long career, while celebrating 50 years of Samson Equipment and its role in the profession.
Key Takeaways:
A farming mentality builds discipline, consistency, and accountability
Hard work remains the great separator in coaching success
Great coaches recognize athletes as people first
Mentorship shapes careers more than job titles
Equipment quality directly impacts training standards and safety
Relationships are the true legacy of strength and conditioning
Quote
“If you’re gonna be good at it, you’re gonna have to work hard at it.”— Jerry Simmons
More
In this episode of the Samson Strength Coach Collective, Jerry Simmons shares a lifetime of lessons learned through strength coaching at every level—from college football and the NFL to Special Forces training. Growing up on a farm instilled a work ethic that shaped his coaching philosophy and expectations. Jerry reflects on mentorship, athlete evaluation, equipment quality, and the relationships that define a long career, while celebrating 50 years of Samson Equipment and its role in the profession. Key Takeaways: A farming mentality builds discipline, consistency, and accountability Hard work remains the great separator in coaching success Great coaches recognize athletes as people first Mentorship shapes careers more than job titles Equipment quality directly impacts training standards and safety Relationships are the true legacy of strength and conditioning Quote “If you’re gonna be good at it, you’re gonna have to work hard at it.”— Jerry Simmons