Episodes
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 61 Amita Bhargav Katie Nguyen
Lawrence/Katie have Amita Bhargav on the podcast to talk about many things covering, her life/childhood in India, her parents influence on her life, her friendship with Lawrence/Katie & the gym, lessons learned from traveling/living in Japan, what powerlifting has done for her life outside of the...
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 60 Tom O'neil, Marsh & Matt Blankenberger
In this episode Lawrence/Matt have Tom and Marsh on the podcast to talk about their experience doing their own podcast, Rich Piana, action movies, MMA, pop culture, RWBB and general hangin out!
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep.59 Eric Bolden & Matt Blankenberger
In this episode Lawrence has Eric Bolden on the podcast along with co host Matt Blankenberger. They talk about the balance act that is Eric's life between being a parent, husband, national Strongman competitor, coffee roaster/entrepreneur. They also get into some of his previous travel experience...
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 58 Andy Bizub, Jenny Rhoades, Scott Nacheman & Haas Elmaz
On this episode, Lawrence sits down at Checked It Out 2026 and talks to Andy Bizub, Jenny Rhoades, Scott Nacheman & Haas Elmaz. They get into the evolution of the team, overcoming personal struggles/health challenges, as well as finding friendship in car culture beyond the superficiality of the...
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 57 Adam Kern
On episode 57 Lawrence has Adam Kern back on the podcast to discuss the upcoming Checked It Out event, an annual Porsche showcase in Chicago blending cars, art, music and community. They chat about a couple of new highlights to look forward to including a silent auction for the Englewood Crushers...
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 56 Grant Craig & Matt Blankenberger
Lawrence has Grant Craig on to talk about his training time at Rockwell Barbell, going from shitty to less shitty carving his spot out here at the gym. They talk about the struggles of lifting/aging and how that can be enough of a reason to keep going.
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 55 Taylor Sharpe & Matt Blankenberger
In this episode Lawrence/Matt have Taylor Sharpe on the podcast, a competitive powerlifter, state chair of Illinois and meet director Powerlifting United. They reflect on a meet that was held at RWBB back in April and how they worked together in unique ways to make the meet better than before.…
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 54: Tom Theodoropoulus & Emil Liebhaber
In this episode, Lawrence sits down with Tom and Emil to talk about their journey into the automotive world and how they carved out a space in Porsche culture. We dive into what makes air-cooled cars unique and how to make these cars feel less intimidating to work on. We also touch on the…
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 53 Bide Akande & Matt Blankenberger
Lawrence has Bide Akande on to talk about his career as a public defender in the City of Chicago as well as him being an actor and improv comedian. They discuss his outlook on staying positive amidst the challenges of modern life, his recent engagement, traveling and his lifting at RWBB.
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 52 TJ Shliff, Pat Sullivan & Matt Blankenberger
In this episode Lawrence has the boys on to talk about making friendships a priority, Judo, Jiu Jitsu, cars, driving on the Road America track together, social media's effect on powerlifting, Conjugate vs linear programming and relationships now compared to when they were younger.
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 51: Bill Guschwan & Justin Moore
Lawrence/Matt Blankenberger have Bill Guschwan & Justin Moore on to talk about philosophy, religion, video games, flow state, Jiu Jitsu and higher levels of thinking.
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 50: Diego Collado & Matt Blankenberger
In this episode Lawrence has Diego Collado on the podcast along with his coach Matt Blankenberger. They get into Diego's experience at RWBB, training with his family in the gym, Strongman training, family values, being a former collegiate shotputter, cannabis, chess and electronic music.
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 49: Andy Bizub
In episode 49, Lawrence has Andy Bizub on, one of the owner's of Midwest Performance Cars, Co-Founders of CheckedItOut and Co-Authors of the new book 'Off the Map". This book showcases the love for the Porsche cars and the welcoming community they created in Chicago based on that mutual interest....
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 48: Matt Blankenberger, Nick Antolik, Mike Abell
On this episode, Lawrence sits down with several Rockwell trainers to discuss their experience at the Conjugate Tactical coach's course at Westside Barbell.
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 47: Dan Rosales
In this episode, Lawrence Scott welcomes Dan Rosales, a longtime friend and founding member of Rockwell. They discuss his journey from lifting and grappling to ultramarathons, as well as his transition from the military into a career in cybersecurity. They also touch briefly on the current state…
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 46: Jake Smelley
In this episode, Lawrence Scott talks with Jake Smelley of Gideon (IG: @gideonal) about the deep connections between music, experiences, and memory They discuss Hank Williams Jr.'s influence on punk and rock, the challenges of authenticity in music, and mental health. The conversation concludes...
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 45: Checkeditout
In this episode, the hosts chat with Adam, Andy, and Dan about the Chicagoland Porsche community and their event, Checkeditout. Lawrence shares how a surprise from his wife introduced him to Porsche car culture, emphasizing the importance of connection and storytelling among enthusiasts. They...
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 44: Pat, Alex, and Mike
In this episode, Lawrence chats with Pat, Alex, and Mike. They share personal stories from their early training, and Pat share how judo enhances jiu-jitsu skills. Alex talks about his journey to being a black belt and being at Balance Point. Mike talks about his progression to brown belt. They...
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 43: Tony Lullo
In this episode, host Lawrence Scott welcomes Tony Lullo, an expert gaffer and lighting technician known for his work on "Chicago Fire" and many notable films. They talk about how they met during a filming session at Rockwell Barbell. Tony shares his Midwest values and the sense of camaraderie he...
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 42: Caroline Moody
In this episode, Lawrence speaks with tattoo artist and shop owner, Caroline Moody (IG: @forever_moody) about their friendship, being at the Rockwell Barbell, and training together. She shares her experiences of working in the tattoo industry for 18 years. She talks about celebrating the ten year...
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 41: Adrienne Eades
In this episode, Lawrence Scott speaks with Adrienne Eades (IG: stronger_with_adrienne) about her experience preparing for the Paris Marathon. They discuss her 16-week training journey leading up to the marathon, and the unique atmosphere of Paris compared to Chicago. Adrienne shares the…
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep 40: Matt Blankenberger
In this episode, Lawrence Scott catches up with Matt Blankenberger (@americanmeatball80_). They talk about the evolution of their friendship and careers. Matt talks about his experiences as the Vice President of Rockwell Barbell, the owner of Pig Collective, and being the co-owner of the clothing...
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 39: Katie Scott and Inez Carrasquillo
In this episode, Lawrence and Katie (@katieeenguyen.scott) hosts champion strongwoman athlete Inez Carrasquillo (@Inez_prostrongwoman). Inez shares her journey from a severe injury to winning the North American Arnold Classic Strongwoman competition. She also goes over her experience as a Rogue...
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 38: Dan Strauss
In this episode, Lawrence and Ed talk with Dan Strauss. Dan is a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Black Belt under Roger Gracie and Strength Training Aficionado. He talks about his journey from traditional Japanese Jiu Jitsu to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and training under legends like Roger Gracie. They also cover...
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 37: Bill Guschwan and Justin Moore
Bill and Justin join Lawrence on this episode, where they discuss the links between creativity, formative experiences in education, strong mentorship, and personal growth. Bill shares his journeys taking him from Big Tech, to becoming an educator, and insights from his experience in tech...
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep 36: Ty Horn
In this episode, Lawrence speaks with Ty Horn, aka Mobility Monster (@mobility_monster74), about his journey from college football to strength coaching and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Ty touches on his individualized training approach, the use of unconventional techniques, and the importance of…
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 35: Dana Paran and Becca Ward
In this episode, Lawrence talks with professional CrossFit athlete Dana Paran and owner of Iron Mind Rehab and Performance, Becca Ward. Dana shares her experiences participating in CrossFit competitions. They discuss Dana's experience at the Rogue Invitational, recovering from a significant ankle...
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 34: Al Jakich and Terry Strand
In this episode, Lawrence talks both Al Jakich and Terry Strand, bodybuilding veterans. They talk about how they met, where they've been, and the history of fitness culture of Chicago. Terry shares humorous insights on how bodybuilding shaped his life. Al shares his experiences growing up on...
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 33: Tom O'Neill
Tom O'Neill, a long time trainer at Rockwell Barbell, joins Lawrence on the podcast. They chat about how they connected through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and powerlifting. Tom also dives into their transition from casual lifting to powerlifting and strongman competitions. Then, Lawrence and Tom…
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 32: Becca Ward
Becca Ward (https://www.ironmindrehab.com/) joins Lawrence to discuss her experiences as a physical therapist and powerlifting coach. Becca talks about her path from a newcomer in powerlifting into embracing the sport and its culture. She also touches on the intersection of strength training and...
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 31: Adam Kern
Adam Kern (@adammkern) joins Lawrence on the podcast to discuss all things Porsche, car culture, and building a community with a common passion. Adam shares the origins of the CheckedItOut (@checkeditout.io), a premier Porsche enthusiast gathering that he established. He also discusses his brand...
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 30: Charles Lewis
In this episode, Lawrence talks with Charles Lewis, a Rockwell Barbell regular. They discuss how they met and how their friendship developed with time. With a background as a nuclear procurement engineer, Charles also shares his childhood challenges and path to a successful career. Then, they...
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 29: Anja Schuffner
Anja Schuffner shares insights about her training leading to and competing in the Arnold Strongman Classic. Anja also discusses challenges faced by Asian athletes, and her mission to empower Asian women in strength sports. Lawrence and Anja covers insights on work-life balance, contrasting work...
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 28: David Mariani
On this episode, David (@basketball.biology) and Lawrence talks about social media and the impact one can have with sharing vital information with others to expose yourself to new ideas. They also discuss the value of communicating with new people, the benefits of asking for help, and reaching…
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 27: Dan Hylton
On this episode, Dan joins Lawrence on the podcast. Lawrence and Dan discuss how they met, their different life trajectories and experiences. They also cover skate parks, punk houses, and the types of people and experiences that come with them. Dan also touches on his experience as a first...
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 26: Ed, Rob, And Ben
This week, Ed, Rob, and Ben return to the podcast. They talk about Thai boxing, Jiu Jitsu, and lessons they've learned about self defense. There's discussion about fighting versus fleeing, instant gratification versus long-haul changes when practicing martial arts. Then there's discussion about...
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 25: Justin Moore
This week, Lawrence and Justin Moore discuss the desire to live forever, motivation for committing to training, as well as the impact and decisions behind taking supplements. They also discuss the proliferation of AI, Value Design, and the need for independent software creators. Curious to learn...
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 24: Ben Le and Rob Whitley
Ben Le and Rob Whitley join Lawrence on the podcast. They discuss martial arts, powerlifting, and the past and present of their training experiences. They also touch upon aging and how it impacts them as it relates to training and being comfortable with themselves. Finding the balance between…
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 23: Shara Miller
Lawrence gives an update on the state of the gym and introduces Shara Miller to the podcast. They discuss their backgrounds and talk about how they ended up in their respective careers. They also discuss how the skills learned in life, work, and school can apply to training.
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 22: Glory Kickboxer Charles Rodriguez
In this episode Lawrence has professional K-1 kickboxer Charles Rodriguez on the podcast. They discuss his bout in Chicago last fall, how he got into martial arts, how that led him into being the kickboxer he is today and his unique outlook on life/fighting. One of the most uncommon yet…
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 21: NO CREONTE NO MUTUCA
Lawrence has Ed Serra on from Threshold Martial Arts. He is a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt with Carlson Gracie Team under Adam Miller / Bill Shimuk and a apprentice instructor in the Thai Boxing Association under Kru Tim Tokarz / Ajarn Chai. Lawrence and Ed discuss the recent belt test that...
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep 20: MBTM
In this episode four trainers from a Rockwell discuss lifting, powerlifting politics, partaking in an instructor's jiu-jitsu black belt test, and other unnecessary yet hilarious antics.
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 19: Durability
On this episode Lawrence has a friend named Alex on who's Special Forces Green Beret preparing to enter Ranger School. Alex has utilized Matt Wenning's programming and the conjugate method to help him properly get ready for Ranger School while avoiding injury or fatigue. In this episode they...
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 18: Well Rounded
In this episode Lawrence has guest Booker Youngblut on the show. He is a trainer at Rockwell Barbell as well as an artist, charity organizer, and welder. They discuss his role in all the above and how they have led him to be a trainer. They also discuss what it was like for him joining Rockwell…
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 17: Stefi Cohen & Hayden Bowe
In this episode Lawrence has Stefi Cohen and Hayden Bowe on discuss their unique lifting style, their gym Hybrid Method Performance, Stefi's world record deadlift, transitioning from benign a sport athlete (hockey and soccer) to a powerlifter and the benefits of powerlifting for Olympic lifting....
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 16: Matt and Krispy
In this episode Lawrence has Christy Senay and Matt Blankenberger on the podcast, two of Rockwell's personal trainers. They discuss online coaching, their experience with Jailhouse Training via Josh Bryant and their mentalities early on in their powerlifting careers. They also discuss managing…
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 15: Resistance
In this episode Lawrence covers training while traveling and focusing on consistency instead of progress. He also discusses short term goal programming, appropriate resistance and searching for the most fitting training environment. He also discusses helping your family train and understand how…
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 14: Jeremy Miller
In episode 14, Lawrence and "Squat Daddy" Jeremy Miller talk about when and how they started lifting and how that progressed to them training in a much more serious and competitive environment. They also discuss why they lift and how Rockwell is a beacon of hope for people who don't want to be...
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 13: Dr. Khong
In this episode, Dr. Khong from Midwest Sport and Spine joins Lawrence on the podcast. They discuss the transition from being a student in health and wellness to becoming a business owner in the health and wellness industry. They also discuss SI Joint Pain, breathing/bracing, their distaste for...
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Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 12: Forsaken Warrior
In this episode, Lawrence has Steve Johnson -- better known as the "Forsaken Warrior" -- to talk about overcoming adversity, pre and post meet training, and his climb to the top of the 275 class. Also covered: Advice to novice lifters, lifting with your significant other and creating a support...