Episode 13: Catching the Weightlifting Bug: Competition, Coaching & Finding Your People

In this episode of the Snatch chat podcast, CoachOates sits down with Rachel; a senior data engineer turned weightliftingenthusiast, to unpack her transition from powerlifting into the world ofOlympic lifts, competition, and long term personal growth.Rachel shares how she “caught the weightlifting bug” and whythe technical challenge of the snatch and clean & jerk pulled her away frompowerlifting. We dive into the reality of learning the Olympic lifts, thepatience required, the frustration of refining technique, and why strengthalone isn’t enough. She opens up about:  Rachel reflects on how competing became “the best day,”highlighting the supportive and electric atmosphere that makes weightliftingunique. We explore how the competitive environment fuels progress and whythere’s always room for growth.Toward the end of the episode, we discuss women’sweightlifting in Scotland and the incredible work being done by SWOL (ScottishWomen in Olympic Lifting). SWOL began with the ambition to bring more womeninto Olympic weightlifting across Scotland and is now hosting events anddeveloping initiatives to increase participation, not just as athletes, but ascoaches, technical officials, and event organisers.You can learn more about their work here: This conversation is a reminder that weightlifting is morethan numbers on a bar. It’s about patience. Community. Coaching. Competition.And enjoying the process of becoming stronger, physically and mentally.If you’re a powerlifter considering the switch, a new lifternavigating your first competition, or someone chasing long term progress in theOlympic lifts, this episode is for you.There’s always room for growth.