Meet Andrew Reynolds | Sports Performance Coach

We had the good fortune of connecting with Andrew Reynolds and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Andrew, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Starting my own business was about fulfilling a deeper calling. After years of training, coaching, and being involved with high-performing athletes, I realized that the traditional models often overlooked the “behind-the-scenes” work—those foundational elements that truly prepare athletes for game day. So, I wanted to create something that would address these gaps and empower athletes more holistically, focusing not only on physical strength but also on building resilience, mental toughness, and overall well-being.

My faith also played a big role. I felt driven to make a meaningful impact by serving athletes beyond just the physical aspect, incorporating elements that can transform their approach to both sport and life. Building Behind the Scenes Performance LLC has allowed me to merge my passions for coaching, mentorship, and faith, creating a business that goes beyond training sessions to touch lives in a lasting way.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My career journey has been shaped by a drive to provide more than just physical training for athletes. I’ve always been passionate about preparing athletes to thrive on and off the field, and that passion led me to work with athletes at every level, from high school and college to the pros. Along the way, I’ve had the privilege of training championship-level teams, supporting national title runs, and collaborating with top athletic organizations. But what truly sets me apart is my focus on the “behind-the-scenes” work that doesn’t always get recognized—the grind that enables athletes to perform when it counts.

The journey here hasn’t been easy. I faced setbacks, including leaving UNC after a tough academic experience, which was a hard hit, but one that ultimately led to valuable self-reflection and growth. That experience, coupled with living through career highs like working with the Washington Commanders, taught me resilience and the importance of adaptability. Each challenge pushed me to develop a holistic approach, integrating sports medicine, strength and conditioning, and mental resilience training.

Behind the Scenes Performance LLC was born from this vision of empowering athletes holistically. I want people to know that my mission goes beyond numbers on a scoreboard. My approach emphasizes the athlete’s entire journey—celebrating PRs, overcoming setbacks, and prioritizing mental and emotional health alongside physical performance. My goal is to create an environment where athletes feel truly supported, prepared, and ready to exceed their limits.

Through it all, my faith and commitment to servant leadership guide me, reminding me that my purpose is to serve and uplift each person I work with. I hope that Behind the Scenes Performance LLC will continue to create a lasting impact by helping athletes feel strong, confident, and prepared for whatever life and sport throw their way.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend was visiting Columbus for a week, I’d make sure they got a taste of the city’s unique energy and culture! Here’s the ideal itinerary:

Day 1: Downtown Columbus Vibes

– Breakfast: Start at Fox in the Snow for coffee and incredible pastries.
– Exploration: Wander through North Market Downtown, checking out local vendors and grabbing a snack.
– Lunch: Head to Wario’s Beef and Pork for one of the best cheesesteaks in the city
– Afternoon: Walk around German Village and browse books at The Book Loft—a Columbus classic with 32 rooms of books!
– Dinner: Schmidt’s Sausage Haus in German Village for a taste of authentic German food, plus their famous cream puffs.

Day 2: Outdoors and Active

– Morning Hike: Drive to Hocking Hills State Park for some amazing hiking trails, waterfalls, and views. Pack a picnic for a scenic lunch.
– Evening: Dinner at Harvest Pizzeria back in Columbus for farm-to-table pizza.
– Night Out: Head to Pins Mechanical Co. for duckpin bowling, ping-pong, and craft beers—it’s a super fun, laid-back spot to unwind.

Day 3: Sport and Food Scene

– Morning Workout: A session at Elevate Human Performance—get a taste of the training we do!
– Lunch: Hot Chicken Takeover in the North Market for Nashville-style hot chicken.
– Afternoon Activity: Catch a Columbus Crew game or tour Ohio Stadium if it’s football season.
– Dinner: M at Miranova—one of the best spots in the city for fine dining with a view of the Scioto River.

Day 4: Coffee, Art, and History

– Breakfast: Start at Stauf’s Coffee for great coffee and a relaxing atmosphere.
– Art: Visit the Columbus Museum of Art or The Wexner Center for the Arts.
– Lunch: Try Northstar Café for fresh, organic options.
– Afternoon: Stop by The Scioto Mile to walk along the riverfront, or even rent a kayak if it’s warm.
– Dinner: The Pearl in the Short North for fresh oysters and seafood.

Day 5: Shopping and Evening Hangout

– Brunch: Katalina’s Cafe in Harrison West—known for amazing pancake balls.
– Shopping: Explore the Short North Arts District, where you’ll find boutiques, galleries, and street art.
– Dinner: Forno Kitchen + Bar for wood-fired dishes in the Short North.

Day 6: Nature and Adventure

– Morning Kayak Excursion: Start the day with kayaking on the Scioto River. You can rent kayaks or paddleboards near Scioto Audubon Metro Park and explore the downtown riverfront with a view of the Columbus skyline.
– Lunch Picnic: Pack a picnic and head to Scioto Grove Metro Park. It’s a beautiful park with scenic spots along the river and plenty of trails to explore.
– Dinner at a Farm-to-Table Spot: Wrap up the day with dinner at The Crest Gastropub. They focus on locally sourced ingredients, so it’s the perfect spot to end a day immersed in nature.
– Evening Bonfire: If time allows, head back to Scioto Audubon for an evening around their outdoor fire pit. The park has a fun rock-climbing wall as well if you’re up for a final bit of activity!

Day 7: Relax and Recharge

– Coffee & Pastries: Pistacia Vera in German Village for delicious pastries.
– Farewell Dinner: Dinner at The Guild House for a memorable end to the trip.

Columbus has a unique mix of great food, art, outdoor spaces, and Midwest hospitality, so this itinerary would show my friend just how much this city has to offer.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There are several people and influences I’d like to credit. Dr. James Onate, of course, comes to mind first. He was the one who taught me to dive into drills and experience them for myself. His mentorship pushed me to think beyond conventional limits and approach coaching with a unique, empathetic perspective that stays with me today.

Then there’s the team at Elevate Human Performance, who support my efforts in creating environments that serve and uplift others. Carolina Athletics also plays a major role in my journey by giving me the platform to help student-athletes recognize their strengths and potential.

Lastly, books like The Obstacle is the Way by Ryan Holiday have helped me navigate adversity with resilience. That book was pivotal for me, especially during tough times when I had to refocus and find my way back. Each of these has contributed to who I am and the mission I’m carrying out today.

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