Suggestions
Ben Crookston
Founder, VP of Product + Partner Development
Ben Crookston is a prominent entrepreneur and product leader, best known as the Founder and CEO of TrainHeroic, a platform that empowers coaches and athletes to connect and improve their training experiences. He has been with TrainHeroic since its inception in July 2011, where he has focused on creating a community that finds joy in the journey of training and personal development.13
Background and Education
Crookston holds a Bachelor’s degree in English and Business Administration from the University of San Diego and a Master’s degree in Arts of Teaching from National Louis University, where he graduated with a 4.0 GPA.1 His early career included teaching English at Perspectives Charter Schools, where he significantly improved students' ACT scores, demonstrating his commitment to education and personal growth.12
Career Path
Before founding TrainHeroic, Crookston worked as a VP of Product at TrainingPeaks, where he has been since December 2021. His role involves maximizing the potential of coaches to impact athletes' lives positively.1 The idea for TrainHeroic emerged from his experiences teaching in low-income schools, where he recognized the transformative power of physical training in building confidence among students.34
Vision for TrainHeroic
Under Crookston's leadership, TrainHeroic has evolved from providing pre-packaged programming for sports teams to becoming a marketplace where coaches can share their expertise and athletes can access high-quality training programs. This shift reflects Crookston's belief that technology should serve as a tool for human development rather than just a tech product.23 He emphasizes that TrainHeroic is not merely a tech company but a human development company, dedicated to helping individuals realize their potential through effective coaching and community support.45
Personal Insights
Crookston is also known for his engaging leadership style, often sharing insights on motivation, goal-setting, and personal development through various media, including interviews and articles. His approach combines practical experience with a deep understanding of the psychological aspects of training and coaching.26
In summary, Ben Crookston's journey from educator to tech entrepreneur highlights his dedication to empowering others through innovative solutions in the fitness industry. His work at TrainHeroic continues to inspire coaches and athletes alike to pursue excellence in their training endeavors.

