In this episode, I’m joined by Amber Dawn to talk all things women in powerlifting, strength training, and coaching. We dive into how to train at every age, build long-term strength, and approach powerlifting with a focus on longevity, performance, and sustainability. 

Amber shares her journey through the sport, along with insights on what makes a great powerlifting coach, how to support athletes effectively, and why community and inclusivity matter in strength sports. We also reflect on our own experiences in lifting—what’s changed over time, lessons learned, and how our past shapes the way we train and coach today. 

This episode is for anyone interested in powerlifting for women, strength training for longevity, improving your coaching skills, or simply finding a more sustainable and meaningful approach to fitness. 

If you’re looking to get stronger, train smarter, and stay in the sport for the long haul, this conversation is for you. 

Interested in coaching? Amber can be found at a.dawn.vicious on Instagram 

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Meet day can feel chaotic if you don’t know what to expect—but it doesn’t have to be.

In this episode, I’m breaking down the full flow of a powerlifting meet, step by step. From weigh-ins and gear check, to finding your space, warming up, and taking your attempts on the platform—I’m walking you through exactly how the day unfolds.

I also share some of the biggest mistakes I’ve made (so you don’t have to), along with practical tips on timing your warm-ups, choosing your attempts, staying fueled, and keeping your nerves in check.

Whether you’re new to competing or just want a smoother, more confident meet day experience, this episode will help you show up prepared and ready to lift.

At the end of the day, it’s not just about the numbers—it’s about the experience. Find your people, enjoy the energy, and remember… it’s you vs. you. 💪

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In this episode of Muscles & Malarkey, I’m joined by Madeline—a high-level powerlifter, trail runner, and a passionate advocate for inclusivity in the strength space. We dive into her journey into powerlifting, what drew her to the sport, and how it’s evolved over time.

More recently, Madeline has stepped into the world of trail running, and we talk all about what it looks like to balance strength training with endurance work—without losing the love for either. From the platform to the trails, this conversation is full of real talk, a few laughs, and insights into finding your own path in fitness.

This episode is a reminder that strength isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s for every body, every goal, and every version of you.

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Travel doesn’t have to mean abandoning your workout routine—but it also doesn’t have to include one. In this episode of Muscles & Malarkey, we’re talking about training while traveling and how to approach it in a way that actually supports you, not stresses you out. 

If working out while you’re away helps you feel better, stay grounded, or keep some normalcy in your routine, there are plenty of ways to make it happen. I’m sharing a few simple tips to help you plan ahead and find options that work for wherever you’re staying. 

From researching local gyms before you leave, to checking reviews and photos to get a feel for the vibe, a little preparation can go a long way. I also share why I personally love checking out locally owned gyms when I travel and how they can make the experience even more fun. 

At the end of the day, it comes down to what fits your priorities. If training while you travel feels good for you—great. And if it doesn’t, that’s okay too. This episode is all about giving you the tools to make the choice that works best for you. 

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In this episode, I’m sitting down with my friend and teammate, April, to talk about her journey into fitness and how it evolved into powerlifting.

We dive into the highs and the hard seasons — navigating injuries, rebuilding strength, and the mental shifts that come with committing to long-term growth. April shares what it’s really like to face setbacks head-on and choose to keep showing up, even when the path forward isn’t linear.

But this conversation goes beyond the platform. We talk about the power of community in a sport that may look individual from the outside — and how having the right people in your corner can make all the difference when things feel heavy.

This episode is about resilience, perseverance, and the kind of strength that’s built both under the bar and within yourself.

Explicit material includes swearing only 

Follow April on Instagram at @powerlifting.pinup.grrrl

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The gym is a shared space… so why do some people act like they’ve never interacted with another human before?

In this episode of Muscles and Malarkey, we’re breaking down gym etiquette — what actually matters, what’s just annoying, and how to not be that person everyone side-eyes but never confronts.

We’re talking:

• How (and when) to ask to use equipment
• Why interrupting someone mid-set is unsafe and rude
• Hogging machines, rest times, and working in
• Cleaning up after yourself (yes, this still needs to be said)
• Filming in the gym, locker room etiquette, and gym rules
• Unsolicited advice, flirting at the gym, and when to stand up for yourself

Plus, I share a personal story about gym safety, boundaries, and why your peace of mind is always worth protecting.

Whether you’re brand new to lifting or you’ve been around barbells for years, this episode is your reminder that gym etiquette isn’t about being perfect — it’s about being respectful.

Lift heavy. Mind your business. Don’t talk mid-set.

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Season 3 is here, y’all!

In this kickoff episode of Muscles & Malarkey, I am back and doing things a little differently. Instead of recording months in advance, Season 3 is all about being more present, more current, and more connected to what’s actually happening in the fitness world (yes, even the chaos).

I dive into New Year momentum — why you don’t have to change just because it’s January, but why it’s also totally okay if that’s what gets you started. She shares practical reminders for enjoying the gym, quieting negative self-talk, and finding a sustainable “why” that lasts longer than motivation.

You’ll also hear real-life advice on how to make friends in the gym, whether you’re brand new or a seasoned lifter, plus a reminder for gym regulars on how a little kindness can make a huge difference for new faces.

To wrap it up, I recap my latest powerlifting meet at the Hoosier Hoedown — from managing stress and adjusting expectations to going absolutely feral on deadlifts and walking away with a PR.

Season 3 starts now. Let’s lift, laugh, and make the gym a better place together.

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It’s the Season 2 finale of Muscles and Malarkey, and we’re closing things out with someone truly special — my coach, Jess “Mamabear” Rogers 

Jess has an incredible journey, from starting out raw to becoming a powerhouse equipped lifter. In this episode, we dive into her evolution as an athlete, the lessons she’s learned along the way, and what it really takes to be a great coach — not just someone chasing likes on the ‘gram.

We also get into the heart of it all: why we do this sport, what keeps us showing up, and how Jess’s passion has shaped the lifters around her. It’s honest, insightful, and the perfect way to wrap up Season 2.

🎧 Tune in for a conversation full of grit, wisdom, and a whole lot of Mamabear energy.

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 Your first powerlifting meet doesn’t have to be scary—this beginner-friendly guide walks you through how to sign up, what to pack, and how to step on the platform with confidence. 

In this episode, I break down everything you need to know to feel confident stepping onto the platform, including:
 ✅ How to sign up for a powerlifting meet (federations, memberships, and rules made simple)
 ✅ Must-haves for your meet day bag (gear, food, and little things that make a big difference)
 ✅ Tips to stay calm, confident, and ready to crush your lifts on meet day 

Whether you’re chasing PRs or just curious about the process, this guide will take the guesswork out of competing and get you pumped for your first meet. 🏋️‍♀️✨ 

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 In this episode of Muscles and Malarkey, I’m joined by Eric — a strength scientist and PhD candidate whose passion for fitness runs deep. We talk about how he found his way into Olympic weightlifting, the lessons he’s learned along the way, and one of the scariest moments of his life at just 23 years old. Eric also shares insight into his groundbreaking work in the neurological field, including the meaningful impact he’s making with people living with Parkinson’s disease. This episode blends science, strength, and real-life stories you won’t want to miss. 

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Email me at [email protected] for any questions or feedback! 
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