In this episode of the Do Cool Shit Podcast, Meryl sits down with strength coach, business owner, and former competitive powerlifter Curtis Miller for a conversation that goes far beyond the barbell.

Curt shares his philosophy on “redefining the bond between athletes and strength”—and why true strength isn’t built on competition day, but in the persistence, discipline, and identity you build along the way.

Together, we dive into:

• Why the process > the outcome (and how this mindset creates long-term success)
• The difference between chasing big goals vs. focusing on incremental progress
• Lessons from 12+ years of powerlifting (including injuries, setbacks, and evolution)
• How training builds confidence, resilience, and self-trust that carries into life
• The truth about failure—and why it’s not what you think
• What a lot of people get wrong about nutrition and performance,
• Why honesty (especially with yourself) is the foundation for progress
• The role of coaching, connection, and trust in real transformation
• How one bold decision can completely change the trajectory of your life

Curt also shares:

• The mindset shift that helped him transition out of competition
• What it actually takes to build strength at a high level
• His perspective on doing hard things—even when you don’t feel like it

This episode is for you if:

• You’re tired of chasing outcomes and want to enjoy the process
• You struggle with all-or-nothing thinking in fitness or life
• You want to build confidence through action—not perfection
• You know what to do… but aren’t consistently doing it
• You’re ready to challenge your perspective on failure, progress, and growth

Real strength isn’t just what you lift—it’s who you become in the process.

Connect with Curtis: https://www.instagram.com/curt_ironboundstrength/

Connect with Meryl:

⁠www.wickedironstrength.com⁠

Email: ⁠[email protected]⁠

Instagram: ⁠www.instagram.com/merylcbc⁠ & ⁠www.instagram.com/wickedironstrength⁠

Email list: ⁠https://go.wickedironstrength.com/newsletter⁠