From Army Infantryman to Touring Guitarist | Paul Oliger

How does an Army infantryman become a touring guitarist in the country music industry?In this episode of the Run Lift Perform Podcast, Christian Washington sits down with Paul Oliger, former U.S. Army infantryman and lead guitarist for country artist Kolby Cooper.Paul shares the unexpected story of how a drunken Spring Break decision changed the direction of his life—eventually leading him through basic training, military service, and onto stages across the country.Christian and Paul discuss the camaraderie and discipline developed in the Army, Paul’s transition into professional music, and the physical demands of performing night after night. Paul also explains how he stays fit while living on a tour bus and why consistency matters when your schedule and surroundings constantly change.Paul opens up about balancing touring with fatherhood, maintaining a strong marriage while spending significant time away from home, and the trust and teamwork required to make that lifestyle work.IN THIS EPISODE:• Paul’s journey from Army infantryman to professional guitarist• The Spring Break decision that changed his life• Memorable moments from Army basic training• Military camaraderie, discipline, and resilience• Breaking into the country music industry• Performing and touring as Kolby Cooper’s lead guitarist• Staying strong and healthy while living on a tour bus• Balancing touring with marriage and fatherhood• Building trust when work requires extended time away• Applying lessons from the military to music and lifeCONNECT WITH PAUL OLIGER:Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/pauloligerLISTEN TO KOLBY COOPER:Paul is the lead guitarist for country artist Kolby Cooper. Listen to Kolby’s music wherever you stream:Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/artist/2dz0ijxEHh6AzUzQBwBSKxApple Music:https://music.apple.com/us/artist/kolby-cooper/1304693482YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@KolbyCooperOfficialOfficial Website:https://www.kolbycoopermusic.comCONNECT WITH RUN LIFT PERFORM:Website:https://runliftperform.comTraining Programs & Merchandise:https://runliftperform.shopInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/runliftperformdotcomYouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@runliftperformFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/share/1BTW2Nbca4/?mibextid=wwXIfrSpotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/033BYOn7W1FFBcz5iqvC7YIf you enjoyed this conversation, follow the Run Lift Perform Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone pursuing an unconventional path.Hybridize. Thrive.