We sit down with Xenom founder Keith Barlow to unpack a new CrossFit-licensed, two-day, 10-event competition designed to test broad fitness without watering down the methodology. We dig into programming choices, decathlon-style scoring, and how a global standardized format could strengthen athletes, affiliates, and the wider CrossFit ecosystem.
• what Xenom is and why it is not fitness racing
• the Decathlon of Fitness concept and how 10 events fit into two days
• why Xenom is built for CrossFitters rather than maximum accessibility
• how competitions shape gym culture and training priorities for affiliates
• day one structure including max snatch, gymnastics, a 60-second bike sprint, barbell cycling, and a run-ski endurance test
• decathlon-style benchmark scoring plus progressive point value within workouts
• how programming decisions balance time domains, skills, and logistics across countries
• judging, volunteer roles, and delivering a premium athlete experience
• future event roadmap across the US and Europe
• safety planning, medical coverage, and the approach to anti-doping and integrity
Be on the lookout for next week's episode

We break down the 2026 CrossFit Quarterfinal workouts with Bobby Wallum and Dan Coda and focus on what wins: clear plans, clean execution, and a mindset that doesn’t leak energy into excuses. We talk strategy for athletes chasing semifinals and for athletes who simply want their best weekend, then finish with simple ways to stay calm when nerves hit.
• why we refuse to bash programming and focus on controllables
• how to think about workout order without over-stressing
• Workout 1 shuttle run turnarounds, overhead squat decisions, and why warm-up matters
• Workout 2 choose-your-own-adventure rep schemes, grip fatigue, and when to prioritize muscle-ups
• how the Workout 2 tiebreak can change your plan if you might not finish
• Workout 3 deadlift strategy, double-under mindset, and when to push for tiebreak
• practical logistics like multiple barbells and smart loading help
• Workout 4 row pacing, clean and jerk singles, and strict handstand push-up failure management
• closing advice on nerves, tunnel vision, and being proud of the effort
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We react to Don Faul stepping down as CrossFit CEO and talk through what leadership churn really changes for affiliates and everyday CrossFitters. We also challenge gym owners to stop waiting for HQ to fix everything and start winning the only battle that matters: how people feel when they walk through the door.

• Don Faul’s exit and why the timing lands during the Open
• What CrossFit HQ improves under Faul including affiliate communication
• The tough metrics Open participation down and affiliate count shrinking
• Old school CrossFit culture versus business realities like fee increases
• Missed strategic bets including Hyrox and better media storytelling
• Outlast as a CrossFit adjacent model that brings new people in
• How to market CrossFit to younger adults without losing the message
• Story driven content that fights the “CrossFit is dangerous” stereotype
• Why affiliate owners and coaches control retention more than HQ
• The service mentality test greeting drop ins and building real community