Get 10% OFF at elitefts (CODE: TABLE TALK): https://www.elitefts.com/ 

Shop Bands: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/bands.html

Pete Rubish takes a seat in this 363rd podcast episode of Dave Tate's Table Talk. Welcome back, Pete!

Pete is a competitive 242-pound powerlifter with best lifts of 772 pounds on squat, 485 pounds on bench, and 920 pounds on deadlift. For the last ten years, he has been coaching and training lifters. His passion is helping others get stronger and realize just how much more capable they can be as they pursue their true potential – and their next PR. After being off PEDs for four years, Pete has found other competitive passions, such as running. He recently ran 66 miles in the Bighorn 100 and ran a half marathon in 1 hour and 38 minutes. Pete and his wife own Koa Strength and Fitness in Oak Ridge, Tennessee.

Koa Strength and Fitness: https://koastrengthandfitness.com/

Pete's IG: https://www.instagram.com/pete.rubish/?hl=en

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS 

Get 10% OFF Your Next Marek Health Labs (CODE: TABLETALK): https://marekhealth.com/

Get a free 8-count Sample Pack of LMNT’s most popular drink mix flavors with any purchase: https://partners.drinklmnt.com/free-gift-with-purchase?utm_campaign=agwp&am…  

Save Up to 20% at Sleepme (CODE: TABLE TALK): https://sleep.me/tabletalk

Get 10% OFF RP Hypertrophy App (CODE: TABLE TALK) :https://go.rpstrength.com/hypertrophy-app/ 

Get 10% OFF at elitefts (CODE: TABLE TALK): https://www.elitefts.com/ 

Get 10% OFF at Granite Nutrition (CODE TABLETALK): https://granitenutrition.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=audio&utm_campaign=Dave_Tate

Save $250 at the Business of Strength Retreat 2025 (CODE: Elite250): https://bosretreat.com/

Support Massenomics! https://www.massenomics.com/

SUPPORT THE SHOW 

All profits from elitefts Limited Edition Apparel, Table Talk Coffee, and Team elitefts Workouts, Programs, and Training eBooks support Dave Tate's Table Talk Podcast. 

elitefts Shop: https://www.elitefts.com/ 

elitefts IG: https://www.instagram.com/elitefts/ 

elitefts  Limited Edition Apparel: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/apparel/limited-edition.html

Get 10% OFF at elitefts (CODE: TABLE TALK): https://www.elitefts.com/ 

Shop Bands: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/bands.html

Welcome Dan Goodman and Joe Riggio to the 362nd episode of Dave Tate's Table Talk podcast. 

Dan Goodman and Joe Riggio are standout figures in the fitness industry, each bringing unique strengths to their partnership at Varsity House, a prominent gym brand they've developed together. Dan began his career at the front desk of Parisi Speed School at 16 and quickly ascended the ranks, eventually partnering with Joe in 2009 to establish Varsity House. Known for his strategic vision in business development and financial management, Dan has become a trusted advisor to gym owners globally through their consulting venture, The Business of Strength.

Joe Riggio started Varsity House in 2006 from an unused loading dock, driven by a lifelong passion for fitness that began when he was twelve. With a master’s degree in Biology and nearly two decades as an Adjunct Anatomy & Physiology Professor at Montclair State University, Joe's scientific approach has not only propelled Varsity House to a 20,000 sq/ft facility but also helped numerous athletes and local adults enhance their fitness. As a dedicated family man and avid outdoorsman residing in River Vale, New Jersey, Joe is passionate about expanding their brand and assisting other gym owners in achieving business success through innovative training and business strategies. Together, Dan and Joe are steering Varsity House towards a future of expansion, aiming to open ten new semi-private training facilities in the next five years.

Varsity House Gym IG: https://www.instagram.com/varsityhouse/

Save $250 at the Business of Strength Retreat 2025 (CODE: Elite250): https://bosretreat.com/

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS 

Get 10% OFF Your Next Marek Health Labs (CODE: TABLETALK): https://marekhealth.com/

Get a free 8-count Sample Pack of LMNT’s most popular drink mix flavors with any purchase: https://partners.drinklmnt.com/free-gift-with-purchase?utm_campaign=agwp&am…  

Save Up to 20% at Sleepme (CODE: TABLE TALK): https://sleep.me/tabletalk

Get 10% OFF RP Hypertrophy App (CODE: TABLE TALK) :https://go.rpstrength.com/hypertrophy-app/ 

Get 10% OFF at elitefts (CODE: TABLE TALK): https://www.elitefts.com/ 

Get 10% OFF at Granite Nutrition (CODE TABLETALK): https://granitenutrition.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=audio&utm_campaign=Dave_Tate

Save $250 at the Business of Strength Retreat 2025 (CODE: Elite250): https://bosretreat.com/

Support Massenomics! https://www.massenomics.com/

SUPPORT THE SHOW 

All profits from elitefts Limited Edition Apparel, Table Talk Coffee, and Team elitefts Workouts, Programs, and Training eBooks support Dave Tate's Table Talk Podcast. 

elitefts Shop: https://www.elitefts.com/ 

elitefts IG: https://www.instagram.com/elitefts/ 

elitefts  Limited Edition Apparel: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/apparel/limited-edition.html

Get 10% OFF at elitefts (CODE: TABLE TALK): https://www.elitefts.com/ 

Shop Bands: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/bands.html

We welcome Kyle Sheridan to this episode of Dave Tate's Table Talk Podcast!

Born and raised in Webster, NY, Kyle Sheridan has built a name for himself in the strength world through pure grit and community building. He’s the co-owner of Legends 24/7 Gym in Webster and runs his own coaching business, The Crew (formerly Sheridan Strength Crew), helping lifters push their limits together.

A former sprinter and track captain at Webster Thomas High School, Kyle’s love for lifting began after high school when he traded the stage as a guitarist in his rock band Falling Forward for the platform. Starting with natural bodybuilding, he quickly shifted to powerlifting in 2013, where he connected with icons like Rheta West, Bob Merkh, Paul O’Neid, and the late Paul Childress. With their guidance, he smashed his goals—deadlifting 800 and totaling 2,000 pounds at 242 in wraps by 2017.

In 2023, under Paul Childress’ coaching, Kyle tackled multiply lifting, squatting 900 and totaling 2,150 at 242—just 14 weeks after stepping back into competition. Now, he’s chasing a 1,000-pound squat in Paul’s honor.

In 2022, when Kyle and his business partner Dave Heisinger suddenly lost their first gym space, they opened Legends in just 3.5 weeks—proving their dedication to keeping a community alive. The gym quickly outgrew its first spot, moving to a larger location in May 2024. Legends is now home to local USPA meets and a hub for lifters of all levels in the Rochester area.

When he’s not coaching or growing Legends, Kyle works full time as a security supervisor at Ginna Nuclear Power Plant. His mission is to bridge the gap between raw and multiply lifting, build Rochester’s strength community, and show lifters that anything is possible when you commit.

Kyle's IG: https://www.instagram.com/sheridanstrength/

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS 

Get 10% OFF Your Next Marek Health Labs (CODE: TABLETALK): https://marekhealth.com/

Get a free 8-count Sample Pack of LMNT’s most popular drink mix flavors with any purchase: https://partners.drinklmnt.com/free-gift-with-purchase?utm_campaign=agwp&am…  

Save Up to 20% at Sleepme (CODE: TABLE TALK): https://sleep.me/tabletalk

Get 10% OFF RP Hypertrophy App (CODE: TABLE TALK) :https://go.rpstrength.com/hypertrophy-app/ 

Get 10% OFF at elitefts (CODE: TABLE TALK): https://www.elitefts.com/ 

Get 10% OFF at Granite Nutrition (CODE TABLETALK): https://granitenutrition.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=audio&utm_campaign=Dave_Tate

Save $250 at the Business of Strength Retreat 2025 (CODE: Elite250): https://bosretreat.com/

Support Massenomics! https://www.massenomics.com/

SUPPORT THE SHOW 

All profits from elitefts Limited Edition Apparel, Table Talk Coffee, and Team elitefts Workouts, Programs, and Training eBooks support Dave Tate's Table Talk Podcast. 

elitefts Shop: https://www.elitefts.com/ 

elitefts IG: https://www.instagram.com/elitefts/ 

elitefts  Limited Edition Apparel: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/apparel/limited-edition.html

PLOT TWIST: Special Guest Dave Tate features a mix of humor, philosophy, and deep discussion about powerlifting, with a central theme around the concept of intent—the idea that success in lifting comes not just from effort and discipline but from being mentally present and purposeful in execution. Dave emphasizes that most lifters lack true intent, even if they have all other elements like consistency and motivation. The conversation also explores topics like wrestling, training philosophies, ridiculous fitness advice, and hypothetical scenarios, often laced with humor and storytelling. Ultimately, Dave concludes that what separates great athletes is not just genetics or work ethic, but their mindset—specifically, their ability to embrace adversity and stay indifferent to distractions.

Get 10% OFF at elitefts (CODE: TABLE TALK): https://www.elitefts.com/ 

Shop Bands: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/bands.html

We welcome Luka Hocevar to this episode of Dave Tate's Table Talk Podcast!

Born and raised in Ljubljana, Slovenia, Luka Hocevar credits basketball, fitness, and great coaches for steering him away from crime and onto a path that took him to the elite European Leagues and the NBA Summer Pro League. After hanging up his professional basketball jersey, Luka dedicated himself to transforming lives just like his coaches did for him.

With over 19 years of coaching experience, Luka has become a powerhouse in the world of physical and mental performance and body transformation. He’s the founder and co-owner of Vigor Ground Gym in Ljubljana and the owner of Vigor Ground Fitness and Performance in Seattle—two facilities known as premier coaching destinations in Slovenia and the U.S. Combined, they’ve helped transform the lives of over 12,000 clients since 2006.

Luka has personally coached more than 4,000 athletes and clients, from top-tier pros in the NBA, NFL, UFC, MLB, and collegiate sports, to everyday people who want to look, feel, and perform at their best. He’s also the mind behind the Vigor Ground Fitness and Business Summit, one of the industry’s top events for fitness professionals and gym owners who want to level up.

His expertise and impact have been featured in Men’s Health, T-Nation, STACK, Onnit Magazine, Entrepreneur, and on HBO Real Sports, CBS, FOX, USA Today, ABC, and KING5 New Day NW, where he’s known as Seattle’s go-to fitness expert.

Luka's IG: https://www.instagram.com/lukahocevar/

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS 

Get 10% OFF Your Next Marek Health Labs (CODE: TABLETALK): https://marekhealth.com/

Get a free 8-count Sample Pack of LMNT’s most popular drink mix flavors with any purchase: https://partners.drinklmnt.com/free-gift-with-purchase?utm_campaign=agwp&am…  

Save Up to 20% at Sleepme (CODE: TABLE TALK): https://sleep.me/tabletalk

Get 10% OFF RP Hypertrophy App (CODE: TABLE TALK) :https://go.rpstrength.com/hypertrophy-app/ 

Get 10% OFF at elitefts (CODE: TABLE TALK): https://www.elitefts.com/ 

Get 10% OFF at Granite Nutrition (CODE TABLETALK): https://granitenutrition.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=audio&utm_campaign=Dave_Tate

Save $250 at the Business of Strength Retreat 2025 (CODE: Elite250): https://bosretreat.com/

SUPPORT THE SHOW 

All profits from elitefts Limited Edition Apparel, Table Talk Coffee, and Team elitefts Workouts, Programs, and Training eBooks support Dave Tate's Table Talk Podcast. 

elitefts Shop: https://www.elitefts.com/ 

elitefts IG: https://www.instagram.com/elitefts/ 

elitefts  Limited Edition Apparel: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/apparel/limited-edition.html

Get 10% OFF at elitefts (CODE: TABLE TALK): https://www.elitefts.com/ 

Shop Bands: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/bands.html

We welcome Brian Kichton to this episode of Dave Tate's Table Talk Podcast!

After spending most of his life under the bar, Brian Kichton dove headfirst into strongman in mid-2021—and hasn’t looked back since. With a rapid ascent through the ranks, Brian captured the 2023 Strongman Corp Amateur Nationals title, securing his coveted pro card and making his mark as a serious contender in the sport. After a strong showing at the Amateur Arnold, he’s turned his focus to competing as a pro on the global stage through the Strongman Champions League, where he’s pushing his limits against some of the world’s best.

When he’s not pressing logs or deadlifting cars, Brian balances the iron game with a career in finance—proving you can wear a suit by day and lift atlas stones by night. He recently relocated to Atlanta with his wife and two loyal pitbulls, embracing the grind of pro strongman while building a life off the platform.

Brian's IG: https://www.instagram.com/judas_peach/

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS 

Get 10% OFF Your Next Marek Health Labs (CODE: TABLETALK): https://marekhealth.com/

Get a free 8-count Sample Pack of LMNT’s most popular drink mix flavors with any purchase: https://partners.drinklmnt.com/free-gift-with-purchase?utm_campaign=agwp&am…  

Save Up to 20% at Sleepme (CODE: TABLE TALK): https://sleep.me/tabletalk

Get 10% OFF RP Hypertrophy App (CODE: TABLE TALK) :https://go.rpstrength.com/hypertrophy-app/ 

Get 10% OFF at elitefts (CODE: TABLE TALK): https://www.elitefts.com/ 

Get 10% OFF at Granite Nutrition (CODE TABLETALK): https://granitenutrition.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=audio&utm_campaign=Dave_Tate

Save $250 at the Business of Strength Retreat 2025 (CODE: Elite250): https://bosretreat.com/

SUPPORT THE SHOW 

All profits from elitefts Limited Edition Apparel, Table Talk Coffee, and Team elitefts Workouts, Programs, and Training eBooks support Dave Tate's Table Talk Podcast. 

elitefts Shop: https://www.elitefts.com/ 

elitefts IG: https://www.instagram.com/elitefts/ 

elitefts  Limited Edition Apparel: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/apparel/limited-edition.html

Get 10% OFF at elitefts (CODE: TABLE TALK): https://www.elitefts.com/ 

Shop Bands: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/bands.html

We welcome Shaun Kopplin to this episode of Dave Tate's Table Talk Podcast!

From the streets to the squat rack, Shaun Kopplin has transformed his life story into a mission of building better humans through strength. As the owner and operator of Mamba Furnishings, Cream City Clothing, and Wolfpack Barbell Club, Shaun wears many hats—entrepreneur, coach, community builder, and living proof that powerlifting can change lives.

A reformed criminal and recovered addict, Shaun knows firsthand what it means to hit rock bottom and crawl back up, barbell in hand. Through Wolfpack Barbell Club, he’s created a safe haven for lifters to push past their limits, find discipline, and surround themselves with a pack that won’t let them fail.

Outside the gym, Shaun channels the same relentless drive into Mamba Furnishings and Cream City Clothing, brands that represent hard work, hustle, and a commitment to giving back. His story is raw, real, and proof that anyone can rewrite their ending if they’re willing to do the work.

Shaun's IG: https://www.instagram.com/the_heartbreakkid/

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS 

Get 10% OFF Your Next Marek Health Labs (CODE: TABLETALK): https://marekhealth.com/

Get a free 8-count Sample Pack of LMNT’s most popular drink mix flavors with any purchase: https://partners.drinklmnt.com/free-gift-with-purchase?utm_campaign=agwp&am…  

Save Up to 20% at Sleepme (CODE: TABLE TALK): https://sleep.me/tabletalk

Get 10% OFF RP Hypertrophy App (CODE: TABLE TALK) :https://go.rpstrength.com/hypertrophy-app/ 

Get 10% OFF at elitefts (CODE: TABLE TALK): https://www.elitefts.com/ 

Get 10% OFF at Granite Nutrition (CODE TABLETALK): https://granitenutrition.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=audio&utm_campaign=Dave_Tate

Save $250 at the Business of Strength Retreat 2025 (CODE: Elite250): https://bosretreat.com/

Support Massenomics! https://www.massenomics.com/

SUPPORT THE SHOW 

All profits from elitefts Limited Edition Apparel, Table Talk Coffee, and Team elitefts Workouts, Programs, and Training eBooks support Dave Tate's Table Talk Podcast. 

elitefts Shop: https://www.elitefts.com/ 

elitefts IG: https://www.instagram.com/elitefts/ 

elitefts  Limited Edition Apparel: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/apparel/limited-edition.html

Get 10% OFF at elitefts (CODE: TABLE TALK): https://www.elitefts.com/ 

Shop Bands: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/bands.html

We welcome Chris Vachio to this episode of Dave Tate's Table Talk Podcast!

Chris Vachio has been training with purpose for over 40 years. A true veteran of the iron game, Chris started lifting in the early ‘80s and hasn’t let up since. He first made his mark in the 1990s, dabbling in both bodybuilding and powerlifting, but it was Strongman that ultimately became his long-term passion.

For the past 16 years, Chris has dedicated himself to competing in and promoting Strongman events across the country. As a competitor, he’s known for his grit, consistency, and old-school training mindset. As a promoter, Chris has earned widespread respect for running top-tier contests that are both lifter-focused and well-organized—helping grow the sport from the grassroots level up.

Check out his Adaptive Strongman competition this October: America’s Strongest Athlete with Disabilities 2025 https://ironpodium.com/browse/event/america-s-strongest-athlete-with-disabi… – celebrating it's 10th anniversary!

Chris' IG: https://www.instagram.com/vachio/

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS 

Get 10% OFF Your Next Marek Health Labs (CODE: TABLETALK): https://marekhealth.com/

Get a FREE LMNT Sample Pack: https://partners.drinklmnt.com/free-gift-with-purchase?utm_campaign=agwp&am…  

Save Up to 20% at Sleepme (CODE: TABLE TALK): https://sleep.me/tabletalk

Get 10% OFF RP Hypertrophy App (CODE: TABLE TALK) :https://go.rpstrength.com/hypertrophy-app/ 

Get 10% OFF at elitefts (CODE: TABLE TALK): https://www.elitefts.com/ 

Get 10% OFF at Granite Nutrition (CODE TABLETALK): https://granitenutrition.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=audio&utm_campaign=Dave_Tate

Save $250 at the Business of Strength Retreat 2025 (CODE: Elite250): https://bosretreat.com/

SUPPORT THE SHOW 

All profits from elitefts Limited Edition Apparel, Table Talk Coffee, and Team elitefts Workouts, Programs, and Training eBooks support Dave Tate's Table Talk Podcast. 

elitefts Shop: https://www.elitefts.com/ 

elitefts IG: https://www.instagram.com/elitefts/ 

elitefts  Limited Edition Apparel: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/apparel/limited-edition.html

Get 10% OFF at elitefts (CODE: TABLE TALK): https://www.elitefts.com/ 

Shop Bands: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/bands.html

We welcome Matt Wiedemer to this episode of Dave Tate's Table Talk Podcast!

Matt Wiedemer brings a powerhouse resume to the table, blending elite-level coaching, entrepreneurship, and lifting experience. With over two decades in the strength and conditioning game, Matt is best known as the co-owner of Beat Fitness—a facility he's owned and operated for 20 years. His gym became a training ground for champions, including UFC legends Jon Jones and Henry Cejudo, along with numerous other professional fighters.

Matt's career began under the mentorship of one of the greats, Buddy Morris, working alongside him at both the University of Pittsburgh and with the Cleveland Browns. This foundation laid the groundwork for Matt’s philosophy of high-performance training that bridges athleticism with real-world application.

In addition to his coaching pedigree, Matt is a decorated powerlifter, having totaled elite in the 198, 220, and 242-pound classes across raw, raw with wraps, and multi-ply divisions. His experience on the platform gives him a rare dual perspective—as both an athlete and a coach—that resonates with lifters of all levels.

Today, Matt is also a co-owner of Parrillo Performance, a legacy performance and nutrition brand known for its science-backed products and deep roots in bodybuilding and strength sports. His work continues to influence and shape the performance industry, from combat sports to strength training to supplement innovation.

Matt's IG: https://www.instagram.com/beattrainer/

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS 

Get 10% OFF Your Next Marek Health Labs (CODE: TABLETALK): https://marekhealth.com/

Get a FREE LMNT Sample Pack: https://partners.drinklmnt.com/free-gift-with-purchase?utm_campaign=agwp&am…  

Save Up to 20% at Sleepme (CODE: TABLE TALK): https://sleep.me/tabletalk

Get 10% OFF RP Hypertrophy App (CODE: TABLE TALK) :https://go.rpstrength.com/hypertrophy-app/ 

Get 10% OFF at elitefts (CODE: TABLE TALK): https://www.elitefts.com/ 

Get 10% OFF at Granite Nutrition (CODE TABLETALK): https://granitenutrition.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=audio&utm_campaign=Dave_Tate

Save $250 at the Business of Strength Retreat 2025 (CODE: Elite250): https://bosretreat.com/

SUPPORT THE SHOW 

All profits from elitefts Limited Edition Apparel, Table Talk Coffee, and Team elitefts Workouts, Programs, and Training eBooks support Dave Tate's Table Talk Podcast. 

elitefts Shop: https://www.elitefts.com/ 

elitefts IG: https://www.instagram.com/elitefts/ 

elitefts  Limited Edition Apparel: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/apparel/limited-edition.html

We welcome Jedd Johnson to this episode of Dave Tate's Table Talk Podcast!

Jedd Johnson is a pioneer in the world of Grip Sport and an influential figure in strength training. Competing in Grip Sport since 2003, Jedd has not only dominated the competitive scene—claiming multiple U.S. and North American Grip Championships—but also held numerous world records in events like the Two Hands Pinch, Silver Bullet, Pickaxe Lift, and more. His hands-on experience and technical mastery have made him one of the most respected names in grip strength.

Since 2005, Jedd has produced a vast library of educational content focused on grip strength, feats of strength, muscle building, and overall athletic development. Whether you're looking to crush grippers, bend steel, or simply build a stronger body, Jedd’s resources have guided thousands of lifters worldwide.

Jedd is also a co-founder of the Diesel Crew, a movement that emerged in the early 2000s and helped revolutionize underground strength training. The Diesel Crew blended hardcore gym culture with cutting-edge training insights, leaving a lasting imprint on the strength and conditioning community.

An NSCA-certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist since 2001, Jedd’s background spans Olympic weightlifting, powerlifting, and strongman. Though back injuries ultimately pulled him away from full-body strength sports, they redirected his focus entirely to Grip—where he continues to innovate, educate, and compete.

Follow Jedd and his latest grip feats and training content at @jedd.diesel.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS 

Get Started with Your AG1 Starter Kit: https://drinkag1.com/DAVETATE

Get 10% OFF Your Next Marek Health Labs (CODE: TABLETALK): https://marekhealth.com/

Get a FREE LMNT Sample Pack: https://partners.drinklmnt.com/free-gift-with-purchase?utm_campaign=agwp&am…  

Save Up to $315 at Sleepme: https://sleep.me/tabletalk

Get 10% OFF RP Hypertrophy App (CODE: TABLE TALK) :https://go.rpstrength.com/hypertrophy-app/ 

Get 10% OFF at elitefts (CODE: TABLE TALK): https://www.elitefts.com/ 

Get 10% OFF at Granite Nutrition (CODE TABLETALK): https://granitenutrition.com/

Save $250 at the Business of Strength Retreat 2025 (CODE: Elite250): https://bosretreat.com/

SUPPORT THE SHOW 

All profits from elitefts Limited Edition Apparel, Table Talk Coffee, and Team elitefts Workouts, Programs, and Training eBooks support Dave Tate's Table Talk Podcast. 

elitefts Shop: https://www.elitefts.com/ 

elitefts IG: https://www.instagram.com/elitefts/ 

elitefts  Limited Edition Apparel: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/apparel/limited-edition.html