Rockwell Barbell Podcast

Rockwell Barbell Podcast is about powerlifting, bodybuilding, and life.

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 54: Tom Theodoropoulus & Emil Liebhaber 04/22/2026

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 evolution of Porsche culture, the rise of EVs, and what it’s like building a business around passion. They also get into what got them started into working on cars and their detour off the beaten path of career choices. Lawrence shares how he got into Porsche, how his perspective has changed over time, and some of the unexpected (and funny) moments that come with spotting these cars in the wild. Beyond cars, we get into what everyone’s into outside the garage and the influences that shaped where they are today. /episode/index/show/rwbbpodcast/id/40968600

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 53 Bide Akande & Matt Blankenberger 04/15/2026

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. /episode/index/show/rwbbpodcast/id/40891450

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 52 TJ Shliff, Pat Sullivan & Matt Blankenberger 04/10/2026

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. /episode/index/show/rwbbpodcast/id/40796245

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 51: Bill Guschwan & Justin Moore 04/02/2026

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. /episode/index/show/rwbbpodcast/id/40704785

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 50: Diego Collado & Matt Blankenberger 03/23/2026

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. /episode/index/show/rwbbpodcast/id/40519270

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 49: Andy Bizub 03/15/2026

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. The book elegantly tells the origin story of CIO and walks the reader through with photos from pro’s, amateur’s and participants as well. They also dive into Andy’s previous career as an agricultural stock broker, how he gained the opportunity to get into the business and what he learned from his time in that field. They discuss how he started MWPC as well and how he applied his business mindset to developing and maintaining a successful mechanic shop. Andy also visited RWBB back in the fall and did a full training session with Lawrence, they talk about his experience working out here and the the different tools/approaches we utilize to get the job done in our own way. You can pick the book up here: /episode/index/show/rwbbpodcast/id/40486970

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 48: Matt Blankenberger, Nick Antolik, Mike Abell 12/19/2025

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. /episode/index/show/rwbbpodcast/id/39463780

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 47: Dan Rosales 11/17/2025

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 of cyber warfare. /episode/index/show/rwbbpodcast/id/39051890

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 46: Jake Smelley 10/06/2025

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 46: Jake Smelley In this episode, Lawrence Scott talks with Jake Smelley of (IG: ) 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 with insights on Gideon’s new single, "Till the Wheels Fall Off," emphasizing resilience and personal reflection. /episode/index/show/rwbbpodcast/id/38475890

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 45: Checkeditout 09/18/2025

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, . Lawrence shares how a surprise from his wife introduced him to Porsche car culture, emphasizing the importance of connection and storytelling among enthusiasts. They discuss event planning, the evolution of car culture, and their outreach work with , a mentorship program for at-risk youth. The episode wraps up with updates on upcoming events and their book, “.” Adam Kern Co-Founder of Andy Bizub Co-Founder of and Founder/Co-Owner of Dan Cubric Architect of /episode/index/show/rwbbpodcast/id/38266660

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 44: Pat, Alex, and Mike 08/10/2025

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 44: Pat, Alex, and Mike In this episode, Lawrence chats with , , and . 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 . Mike talks about his progression to brown belt. They discuss downtime from jit-jitsu, trusting your sparring partners, and how they all ended up at Balance Point. /episode/index/show/rwbbpodcast/id/37744510

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 43: Tony Lullo 08/03/2025

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 feels on set. They also discuss industry mentorship, the ins and out of the Chicago film industry, and the personalities in it. /episode/index/show/rwbbpodcast/id/37654315

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 42: Caroline Moody 07/13/2025

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 42: Caroline Moody In this episode, Lawrence speaks with tattoo artist and shop owner, Caroline Moody (IG: ) 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 anniversary of her tattoo shop, . They discuss the balance of passion and profession, the significance of family in Caroline's art career, the personal significance of tattoos, and the importance of mentorship and community in both powerlifting and the art world. They also talk about smart rings and health technology. /episode/index/show/rwbbpodcast/id/37389365

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 41: Adrienne Eades 06/11/2025

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 41: Adrienne Eades In this episode, Lawrence Scott speaks with Adrienne Eades (IG: ) 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 importance of support from her partner leading up to and during the marathon. Adrienne also talks about coaching while balancing running and lifting goals. They also discuss what what drove Adrienne to join Rockwell Barbell as a trainer, and the work that goes into changing careers. She also shares some of her future goals in fitness and in life. /episode/index/show/rwbbpodcast/id/36950755

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep 40: Matt Blankenberger 06/01/2025

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep 40: Matt Blankenberger In this episode, Lawrence Scott catches up with Matt Blankenberger (). 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 brand, . They discuss the supportive community and family in powerlifting. They also share their love for hardcore music and perspectives on training as they get older. /episode/index/show/rwbbpodcast/id/36810180

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 39: Katie Scott and Inez Carrasquillo 05/19/2025

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 39: Katie Scott and Inez Carrasquillo In this episode, Lawrence and Katie () hosts champion strongwoman athlete Inez Carrasquillo (). 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 Invitational champion and new records. Katie talks about her experiences that lead her into becoming a personal trainer and the Director of Operations at Rockwell Barbell. Then, they discuss their collaboration and performance at Lollapalooza, and the supportive community at both Rockwell Barbell and Surge gyms. /episode/index/show/rwbbpodcast/id/36617410

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 38: Dan Strauss 05/12/2025

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 philosophies on live sparring versus drilling. You can find Dan on Instagram () or at /episode/index/show/rwbbpodcast/id/36541820

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 37: Bill Guschwan and Justin Moore 03/31/2025

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 entrepreneurship. They also cover resilience through trauma, teamwork complexities in the video game and tech industries, along with the ongoing process of learning through shared experiences. /episode/index/show/rwbbpodcast/id/35950560

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep 36: Ty Horn 03/09/2025

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep 36: Ty Horn In this episode, Lawrence speaks with Ty Horn, aka Mobility Monster (), 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 community in martial arts. Ty shares insights from his experiences training with some of the top Jiu-Jitsu grapplers, and how technique can overrule size on the mat. They both touch on blue collar work ethic and how it influenced their training. They also discuss the growth that comes from stepping outside comfort zones and unorthodox paths to finding their strengths in fitness and in life. /episode/index/show/rwbbpodcast/id/35595270

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 35: Dana Paran and Becca Ward 01/03/2025

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 injury, and the sense of community in CrossFit and powerlifting. Dana and Becca also share how they met and bonded through fitness. Also, they discuss Dana's travels, the current state of CrossFit, and some future plans. /episode/index/show/rwbbpodcast/id/34710470

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 34: Al Jakich and Terry Strand 12/08/2024

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 Chicago's west side and his passion for bodybuilding. They also reminisce about the golden age of gyms, the evolution of training practices, and discuss the importance of community, mentorship, and tradition in fitness. /episode/index/show/rwbbpodcast/id/34324205

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 33: Tom O'Neill 11/01/2024

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 highlight the ways in which their training philosophies evolved over time, training injuries, motivation, and being accountable to oneself when training. /episode/index/show/rwbbpodcast/id/33736662

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 32: Becca Ward 09/19/2024

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 32: Becca Ward Becca Ward ( 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 rehabilitation, as well as managing her own practice, . They also chat about the advantages of bypassing traditional insurance models and the benefits of patient focused care. /episode/index/show/rwbbpodcast/id/33116087

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 31: Adam Kern 09/06/2024

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 31: Adam Kern Adam Kern () 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 (), a premier Porsche enthusiast gathering that he established. He also discusses his brand Low End Garage (), working with artists to bring a vision to life for his events, and road tripping with a Porsche in tow. Find out more about CheckedItOut and Low End Garage here: /episode/index/show/rwbbpodcast/id/32949947

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 30: Charles Lewis 07/23/2024

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 explore the evolution of training through mental fortitude and unconventional methods, drawing inspiration from solo outdoor routines akin to Musashi Miyamoto's discipline and swordsmanship. Charles also shares some anime recommendations with Lawrence, and touches on how anime and gaming has influenced his passion for training. They also cover injury, recovery, and not letting a setback break consistency in training. They also touch on diverse training techniques, machine workouts versus working with restrictions during training, and fostering a supportive fitness community. /episode/index/show/rwbbpodcast/id/32264737

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 29: Anja Schuffner 04/07/2024

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 cultures globally, and a glimpse into Anja's training routine in Hong Kong. They also cover the landscape of Strongman and powerlifting in Asia. Visit our sponsor, Eaternal Nutrition. /episode/index/show/rwbbpodcast/id/30694813

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 28: David Mariani 03/21/2024

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 28: David Mariani On this episode, David () 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 out to others. They talk about mobility techniques and things they've tried and changed over time. They also discuss how David's athletic history influences the work that he does now, as well as his connection to the world of basketball. /episode/index/show/rwbbpodcast/id/30468178

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 27: Dan Hylton 02/12/2024

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 responder, being deployed to Iraq, and adjacent topics. /episode/index/show/rwbbpodcast/id/29901783

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 26: Ed, Rob, And Ben 12/15/2023

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 separating one's "business persona" from one's personal self when communicating with others online. They also discuss if money would impact how they represent themselves online. Sponsored by Eaternal Nutrition. /episode/index/show/rwbbpodcast/id/29092298

Rockwell Barbell Podcast Ep. 25: Justin Moore 10/12/2023

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 more about Justin's Value Design principles? Want to find out about how to integrate Value Design into your life? You can find out more at: Also, visit our sponsor, Eaternal Nutrition. /episode/index/show/rwbbpodcast/id/28285919

Rockwell Barbell Podcast

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