What if smoking a cigar could become more than a pastime—and instead create space for reflection, brotherhood, and genuine connection?

In this episode of the Run Lift Perform Podcast, Christian Washington sits down with military veterans Zach Duffy and Steven Fanero, founders of The Smoking Standard. With one of them having served as a combat medic, they share how their military experiences, friendship, and passion for cigars helped shape the business they’re building today.

Zach and Steven explain how intentionally engaging all five senses can completely change the cigar experience. They also discuss choosing the right cigar, slowing down in a constantly moving world, and the unique way cigars bring together people who may otherwise have never crossed paths.

In this conversation, you’ll hear about:

• Zach and Steven’s journey from military service to entrepreneurship
• What it truly means to “smoke with intention”
• How to select a cigar that complements the experience you want
• Why cigar lounges naturally encourage conversation and community
• Bringing the cigar-lounge experience to people who don’t have access to one
• Turning friendship and a shared passion into The Smoking Standard
• The powerful connection between ritual, reflection, and camaraderie

Whether you’re an experienced cigar enthusiast or have never smoked one before, this conversation offers a deeper look into the craftsmanship, community, and intentionality surrounding cigar culture.

Follow The Smoking Standard:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesmokingstandard

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thesmokingstandard

Follow Run Lift Perform:

Website: https://runliftperform.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/runliftperformdotcom

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BTW2Nbca4/?mibextid=wwXIfr

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@runliftperform

Hybridize. Thrive.

How does an Army infantryman become a touring guitarist in the country music industry?

In this episode of the Run Lift Perform Podcast, Christian Washington sits down with Paul Oliger, former U.S. Army infantryman and lead guitarist for country artist Kolby Cooper.

Paul shares the unexpected story of how a drunken Spring Break decision changed the direction of his life—eventually leading him through basic training, military service, and onto stages across the country.

Christian and Paul discuss the camaraderie and discipline developed in the Army, Paul’s transition into professional music, and the physical demands of performing night after night. Paul also explains how he stays fit while living on a tour bus and why consistency matters when your schedule and surroundings constantly change.

Paul opens up about balancing touring with fatherhood, maintaining a strong marriage while spending significant time away from home, and the trust and teamwork required to make that lifestyle work.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• Paul’s journey from Army infantryman to professional guitarist
• The Spring Break decision that changed his life
• Memorable moments from Army basic training
• Military camaraderie, discipline, and resilience
• Breaking into the country music industry
• Performing and touring as Kolby Cooper’s lead guitarist
• Staying strong and healthy while living on a tour bus
• Balancing touring with marriage and fatherhood
• Building trust when work requires extended time away
• Applying lessons from the military to music and life

CONNECT WITH PAUL OLIGER:

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/pauloliger

LISTEN TO KOLBY COOPER:

Paul is the lead guitarist for country artist Kolby Cooper. Listen to Kolby’s music wherever you stream:

Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/artist/2dz0ijxEHh6AzUzQBwBSKx

Apple Music:
https://music.apple.com/us/artist/kolby-cooper/1304693482

YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@KolbyCooperOfficial

Official Website:
https://www.kolbycoopermusic.com

CONNECT WITH RUN LIFT PERFORM:

Website:
https://runliftperform.com

Training Programs & Merchandise:
https://runliftperform.shop

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/runliftperformdotcom

YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@runliftperform

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/share/1BTW2Nbca4/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/show/033BYOn7W1FFBcz5iqvC7Y

If you enjoyed this conversation, follow the Run Lift Perform Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone pursuing an unconventional path.

Hybridize. Thrive.

How do you build tactical athletes who are strong, conditioned and prepared for the demands of the mission—without running them into the ground?

Christian Washington sits down with veteran strength and conditioning coach Jacob Walker to discuss tactical performance, intelligent programming and the lessons Jacob learned from his time at Westside Barbell.

Jacob explains how conjugate principles can be adapted for military personnel and first responders while accounting for individual readiness, recovery and operational demands. They explore periodization, training cycles, HRV, respiratory rate, deloads and the balance between volume and intensity required for long-term performance.

The conversation also examines the difference between task relevance and task mirroring. Rather than attempting to recreate every occupational demand inside the gym, Jacob emphasizes developing the physical qualities that allow tactical athletes to perform when it matters.

Above all, Jacob makes the case that effective programming does not need to be complicated. The highest performers consistently execute the fundamentals with focus and intent.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• Tactical strength and conditioning
• Applying the conjugate method to tactical populations
• Lessons from Louie Simmons and Westside Barbell
• Periodization and effective training cycles
• Avoiding overtraining and unnecessary injuries
• Monitoring readiness through HRV and respiratory rate
• Balancing training volume, intensity and recovery
• Task relevance versus task mirroring
• Developing mental toughness without sacrificing longevity
• Training for operational performance and resilience

COMING SOON: THE “JAKE WALKER” STRENGTH + CARDIO HYBRID CONJUGATE PROGRAMChristian and Jacob are developing a complete Strength + Cardio Hybrid Conjugate program built around three progressive four-week training waves. The program will combine proven conjugate principles with strength and cardiovascular training to help hybrid athletes build performance, resilience and long-term durability.The program will be available at: ⁠https://runliftperform.com⁠

CONNECT WITH JACOB:

Email: [email protected]

CHAPTERS:

00:00 – Introduction to Jacob Walker and His Background
02:15 – The Evolution of Tactical Strength Training
04:09 – Lessons from Westside Barbell and the Conjugate Method
09:47 – Periodization and Avoiding Overtraining
13:36 – General Versus Task-Specific Preparedness
16:50 – Adapting Westside Principles for Tactical Athletes
22:55 – Hybrid Training for Operational Readiness
26:14 – Programming Deloads and Recovery
33:02 – Monitoring Readiness with HRV and Other Metrics
40:40 – HRV and Operational Performance
44:28 – Practical Tools for Training Success
50:44 – Final Thoughts and Future Collaboration

CONNECT WITH RUN LIFT PERFORM:

Website: https://runliftperform.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/runliftperformdotcom/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@runliftperform
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BTW2Nbca4/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Hybridize. Thrive.

How do you build serious strength without sacrificing your endurance?

In this episode of Run Lift Perform, Christian Washington sits down with Ignas, a hybrid athlete from Lithuania who combines powerlifting with running.

Ignas shares how he transitioned from BMX riding into strength training and eventually achieved a 280-kilogram—or approximately 620-pound—deadlift. He explains how he balances heavy lifting with running and why proper technique, muscle engagement, and consistent progression matter more than simply forcing heavier weight.

Christian and Ignas discuss:

• What it truly means to be a hybrid athlete
• Balancing heavy strength training with running
• Ignas’ 620-pound maximum deadlift
• Common mistakes made by new lifters
• Why technique matters in squats and deadlifts
• Setting challenging performance goals
• Ignas’ decision to train without supplements
• The discipline required to improve strength and endurance simultaneously

Ignas’ journey demonstrates what is possible when hard work, proper technique, and a relentless desire to improve come together.

Hybridize. Thrive.

FOLLOW IGNAS:

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ignas_cemnolonskis

FOLLOW RUN LIFT PERFORM:

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/runliftperformdotcom

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/share/1BTW2Nbca4/?mibextid=wwXIfr

YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@runliftperform

Website:
https://runliftperform.com

Mike joins Run Lift Perform to break down what it truly takes to complete a 100-mile ultramarathon.

From his transition out of the military to building the physical and mental endurance required for ultrarunning, Mike shares an honest look at his training, race strategy, nutrition, footwear, and support system. He explains how he handled exhaustion, gastrointestinal issues, and the mental battle of continuing forward when every part of his body wanted to stop.

Mike also reflects on the lessons he learned throughout the race and offers practical advice for anyone considering an ultramarathon or looking to push beyond their perceived limits.

“You can’t fake a 100-mile race.”

Whether you’re preparing for an endurance event or simply trying to develop greater discipline and resilience, this conversation is a reminder that every step brings you closer to the finish.

Follow Run Lift Perform:

Website: https://runliftperform.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/runliftperformdotcom/

Connect with Mike:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sigdet/

Additional Resources:

Atlas Training Solutions: https://www.atlastrainingsolutions.com/
Matt Clark — Coach: https://www.instagram.com/mattclark/
American Trigger Pullers Merch: https://www.americantriggerpullers.com/

Hybridize. Thrive.

What drives someone to keep pushing when everything says to quit?

In this episode of Run Lift Perform, Christian Washington sits down with Lyndsey to discuss the mindset forged through military service, leadership, endurance, and refusing to let obstacles define your future.

One of the most memorable moments of the conversation is Lyndsey's perspective on hearing the word "no." Rather than seeing rejection as the end of the road, she uses it as fuel to work harder, improve, and prove what's possible.

The conversation also dives into her military career, the lessons she's learned through service, and how those experiences prepared her for one of her toughest physical challenges—the Norwegian Ruck March. Despite severe blisters and bleeding feet just miles into the event, Lyndsey refused to quit, demonstrating the resilience and discipline that military life helped build.

Whether you're in the military, law enforcement, a first responder, an endurance athlete, or simply someone striving to become mentally stronger, this episode offers practical lessons on perseverance, leadership, and performing under pressure.

• Lyndsey's military journey
• Leadership lessons from military service
• Why hearing "no" became her greatest motivation
• Building mental resilience through adversity
• The Norwegian Ruck March experience
• Training for endurance and tactical readiness
• Performing under pressure
• Developing discipline that lasts a lifetime

🌐 Website
https://runliftperform.com

🛒 Training Programs & Merch
https://runliftperform.shop

🎥 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@RunLiftPerformDotCom

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/033BYOn7W1FFBcz5iqvC7Y?si=b6kWCbX_RAutEC18o_-y_g

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/runliftperformdotcom

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/share/1BTW2Nbca4/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Run Lift Perform is where tactical readiness meets leadership, resilience, and high performance.

Hosted by Christian Washington, the podcast features conversations with military veterans, law enforcement professionals, first responders, elite performers, and leaders who share real-world lessons on fitness, leadership, mental resilience, and living with purpose.

Train Hard. Lead Well. Perform Under Pressure.

👍 Like the video

💬 Leave a comment with your biggest takeaway.

🔔 Subscribe for more conversations on leadership, tactical readiness, strength, endurance, and high performance.

In This EpisodeConnect with Run Lift PerformAbout Run Lift PerformIf You Enjoyed This Episode

#RunLiftPerform #MilitaryLeadership #MentalToughness #Leadership #NorwegianRuckMarch

What does it really take to perform when the stakes are at their highest?

In this episode of the Run Lift Perform Podcast, Christian Washington sits down with Pat Choi, founder of Sierra 7, to discuss the mindset, training, and preparation required for law enforcement, military personnel, security professionals, and responsible civilians.

Pat shares lessons learned from years of real-world experience, explaining why mastering the fundamentals is the foundation of success under pressure. The conversation explores how strength, endurance, and shooting proficiency work together, why patrol officers are often the first and most critical responders, and how innovative training methods are helping people become more capable when it matters most.

Whether you're in uniform, train for personal protection, or simply want to become more prepared, this episode offers practical insights into building confidence, resilience, and performance through purposeful training.

• Why mastery of the basics wins under pressure
• Pat's military background and lessons learned
• The importance of patrol officers in critical incidents
• The Hybrid Strength Index and measuring readiness
• Combining physical fitness with firearms proficiency
• Training for active shooter response and real-world scenarios
• Building strength, endurance, and adaptability together
• Creating a culture of continuous improvement

🌐 Website: https://www.sierra7.org
📧 Email: [email protected]
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sierra_7_solutions
📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1EA9Jw5ZSA/?mibextid=wwXIfr

🎙 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/033BYOn7W1FFBcz5iqvC7Y
📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@runliftperform
🌐 Website: https://runliftperform.com
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/runliftperformdotcom/

If you enjoyed this conversation, subscribe to the Run Lift Perform Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone committed to becoming stronger, more capable, and more prepared.

#RunLiftPerform #PatChoi #SierraSeven #TacticalTraining #LawEnforcement #Military #Preparedness #StrengthTraining #HybridAthlete #SelfDefense #Leadership #Performance

In the debut episode of the Run Lift Perform Podcast, Christian sits down with the legendary Operator X for a top-secret conversation on discipline, freedom, and tactical life.

In this classified interview, Operator X reveals:

🟢 Why Bitter Bite may have saved her career by helping her stop biting her nails.

🟢 Why there is no medicine that makes smoking cigars safe—even though scientists are “working on it.”

🟢 Which Special Forces unit has the toughest, most barrel-chested freedom fighters.

🟢 How she’s a highly trained assassin and freedom fighter by day, but spends her evenings loving her family, dogs, and chickens.

🟢 Why every elite operator should know how to cook the perfect eggs.

🟢 Why building good habits is one of the most important missions you’ll ever take on.

This episode is packed with laughs, unexpected wisdom, and a reminder that discipline starts with the little things—even when you’re one of the world’s most elite “operators.”

Hybridize. Thrive.

🌐 Connect with Run Lift Perform

🌍 Website

https://runliftperform.com

📸 Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/runliftperformdotcom

▶️ YouTube

https://www.youtube.com/@runliftperform

⸻

🎙️ About the Show

The Run Lift Perform Podcast is hosted by former Green Beret Christian and features conversations with Special Operations veterans, active-duty military, law enforcement officers, firefighters, first responders, elite coaches, and high performers. Each week, you’ll hear stories, lessons, and practical advice on tactical fitness, leadership, resilience, discipline, and the mindset required to perform under pressure.

New episodes every week.