At some point, you stop chasing the dream… and start living it.

Years ago, Austin Nikolai was watching the World Championships on YouTube during lunch in high school.

Today, he's preparing to represent Team USA on that same stage.

In this episode, we talked about:

• Falling in love with powerlifting

• Going from being overlooked to becoming world-class

• Why appreciation matters more than genetics

• Trusting your coach and the process

• Chasing legacy instead of accolades

The kid who dreamed about Worlds eventually became the man walking onto the platform.

On this episode of Corner of the CRCL, we sit down with junior powerlifting standout Elliot Sykes for a high-energy conversation about chasing greatness, building toward the Open division, and what it really takes to hunt the top spot in the sport. From dominating as a 74 kg lifter to discussing the possibility of moving up to the stacked 83 kg class, Elliot opens up about the mindset, sacrifices, and motivation behind constantly pushing the limits of what he can become.

We also dive into the current landscape of the 83 kg division, the heavy hitters standing at the top, and why Elliot has had his eyes on the throne for a long time. But beyond the numbers and competition, this episode shows why so many people respect him...not just as a lifter, but as a genuinely good dude with an infectious energy and passion for the sport.

A lot of laughs, a lot of intensity, and a lot of real talk...this is one you do not want to miss.

Not everything in this sport is said out loud.

Some things live in group chats.

Back rooms.

Comment sections.

And some… get exposed through satire.

We sat down with @IPFCENTAL — a name you’ve seen everywhere, even if you don’t know who’s behind it.

What we found out?

It’s bigger than one person.

Bigger than jokes.

Bigger than drama.

It’s about giving lifters a voice.

Calling out the culture.

And pushing the sport forward… in a way only anonymity allows.

This one’s raw.

It’s honest.

And it’s a good time from start to finish.

Welcome to the circle.

Tap in. You don’t want to miss this one.

🎧 Available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and SoundCloud

👍 Like, comment, and subscribe

#CornerOfTheCRCL #Powerlifting #FindYourStrength #1stPhorm #LetsEat

This week on *Corner of the Circle*, I sit down with Marcellus Williams — aka **@theswolefessor** — for one of the most real and well-rounded conversations we’ve had yet.

We dive into faith, family, and fatherhood… and how those pillars shape not only the man he is, but the coach he’s become. Marcellus opens up about his journey into coaching, the responsibility he feels toward his athletes, and the standard he holds himself to both on and off the platform.

We also talk about navigating adversity, staying grounded through outside noise, and choosing growth over drama...all while continuing to push himself as a lifter and leader.

And make sure you stay locked in… because toward the end, a special guest joins the conversation and brings a whole new layer of depth. What follows is honest, insightful, heartfelt, and truly eye-opening.

This one isn’t just about lifting. It’s about purpose, influence, and becoming someone others can rely on.

🎧 Full episode out now.

SUPPORT LINK - https://1stphorm.com/LSLETSEAT

Starting the new season of with a bang!

Christian Ferratti @theofficialbigbody pulled up to Corner of the CRCL(Circle) and this one covers it ALL.

We get into how he got started in powerlifting, where he thinks the sport is headed, and what he would change if he had the power to do it.

We also talk about the people he respects in the game, the recent drama and controversy surrounding him, and how coaching has turned into a true family business.

And if you know, you know... the FLEXX family is making an impact on powerlifting like nothing else out right now.

Real conversation. No fluff.

Season 7 is here!!!!!!

Make sure to like, comment, and subscribe to stay locked in with every episode.

You can catch Corner of the CRCL (Circle ) on all major platforms& Spotify and Apple Podcasts for audio & YouTube for full video episodes & Also streaming on SoundCloud

Just search LS McClain or Corner of the CRCL and you're in.

Appreciate the support. Let's keep building. #letseat #powerlifting #podcast #crc| #letseat

In this special episode of The Corner of the CRCL, we’re joined by Yaya, all the way from Cairo, Egypt. Yaya opens up about what it means to live with discipline, faith, and purpos....as both a powerlifter and a devout Muslim man.

We talk about how his faith has grounded him, especially while navigating a tough knee injury, and how he stays focused, motivated, and locked in on the bigger picture. Yaya also shares what it’s like to be a dual citizen, the opportunities and challenges of lifting for both Powerlifting America and the Egyptian national team, and what the future may hold for him on and off the platform.

Tune in for a powerful conversation about mindset, identity, and perseverance....halfway around the world, but right in the center of the CRCL.

What’s up everyone! We’re back with a brand new episode of Corner of the CRCL.

This time, we’re joined by none other than the 2025 Powerlifting America 105kg National Champion, Anthony McNaughton. We talk all about the grind leading up to his unforgettable performance in Atlanta, the setbacks he’s faced over the years, and the story of how we first crossed paths.

We also dive into his mental game, what fuels his approach to lifting, and, yes, we finally explain how he earned the nickname Shrek...and hear the golden pipes lol

Kick back, tune in, and enjoy this powerful episode of Corner of the CRCL.

🎙️ New Episode of Corner of the CRCL

We’re back with a fresh episode, and this one’s a must-listen. Joining us is Michael Davis, reigning 105kg champion and one of the most respected names in the world of powerlifting.

In this episode, Michael dives into his journey through the sport—from dominating both the equipped and raw categories to the mental and physical grind of competitive lifting. He opens up about the highs of victory, the lows of injury, and the tough road of cutting weight while staying dialed in.

We talk about the mindset it takes to compete at the top level, how he's handled setbacks over the last year—including a major hiatus from the platform—and what it’s taken to mount a comeback. Michael also shares some of the ways he decompresses outside of powerlifting, giving fans a rare glimpse into his life beyond the barbell.

With a return to competition just weeks away, this conversation is raw, honest, and packed with insights for lifters, athletes, and anyone chasing greatness.

So grab your headphones, settle in, and get ready to be inspired. This is Corner of the CRCL.

Welcome back to another episode of the Corner of the CRCL podcast! This week, we’re joined by Devin Williams as he prepares for his very first trip to IPF Worlds. We dive into the excitement, the buildup, and the intense training leading up to the big stage. Devin also opens up about his deep faith, his love for Christ, and the grounding force it brings to his life. We explore his missionary work alongside his wife, the joys of fatherhood, and his hopeful outlook on the future. All that—and more—in this heartfelt and inspiring conversation. Kick back, relax, and enjoy the episode.

In this episode, Gavin Aden joins the show to discuss his journey leading up to nationals, including his training, preparation, and performance. He reflects on doing well but falling just short of his goals, and shares his mindset, motivation, and future plans. The conversation also covers discipline, what’s next for Gavin, his personal Mount Rushmore, and a fun preview of his Eminem impression.