In this episode of Practical Powerlifting, I speak with Daniel Featherston, a young and passionate powerlifting coach and co-owner of Strength Collective in Melbourne. We discuss Daniel's journey in powerlifting, the importance of building a supportive community, and the evolution of his coaching philosophy. The conversation delves into the challenges of burnout versus boredom in training, the significance of patience, and the role of education in coaching. Daniel shares insights on fostering a positive gym environment and the importance of maintaining motivation and engagement among lifters.

Daniel Featherston https://www.instagram.com/chunky_boy_prime/
SR Strength Collective https://www.srstrengthcollective.com.au/

In this episode of Practical Powerlifting, I speak with Jack Dunn who shares his journey from a general fitness trainer to a successful powerlifting coach in Tasmania. He discusses the evolution of his coaching brand, Compound Training and Nutrition, and the importance of recognizing and nurturing talent in the sport. Jack reflects on his experiences at the recent Open IPF Worlds, Junior Worlds and his team's success at TSF Team Champs. We discuss the challenges of coaching at high levels and balancing individual lifter goals with team objectives.

He also introduces the Southern Showdown, a new competition aimed at fostering community and competition among lifters in Tasmania and Victoria. Throughout the discussion, Jack emphasizes the significance of building a supportive environment for athletes and the impact of shared experiences in enhancing performance and resilience. He discusses his coaching philosophy and experiences in powerlifting, emphasizing the importance of recognizing potential in athletes, building strong relationships, and nurturing their passion for the sport. He shares insights on managing expectations, avoiding burnout, and the significance of communication in coaching. Jack also reflects on his personal journey with a brain tumor and how it shaped his approach to coaching and understanding athletes' unique starting points. He highlights the role of a supportive training culture and the balance between genetic potential and coaching influence in athlete success.

In this episode of Practical Powerlifting, I speak with Alex Dellaportas, a prominent figure in the Melbourne powerlifting scene and founder of Groove Lifting Club. We discuss Alex's journey into coaching, the importance of community and enjoyment in training, and the challenges of avoiding burnout in powerlifting. Alex shares insights on how to navigate individual needs in coaching, the concept of the 'washed up' powerlifter, and the significance of creating a positive experience in competitions. Our conversation emphasizes the balance between competition and enjoyment, the role of communication in coaching, and reflections on powerlifting culture.