SHAW STRENGTH PODCAST

On this episode we dive deep into the world of blood flow restriction (BFR) therapy with Johnny Owens, a pioneer in the field. In this episode, Johnny shares his journey from rehabbing wounded soldiers to revolutionizing recovery in professional sports. Discover the evolution of BFR, from its roots in military medicine to its groundbreaking applications in athletic performance and injury recovery. Hear incredible stories about limb salvage, working with athletes like Jadeveon Clowney and Alex Smith, and the science behind how BFR combats muscle atrophy and promotes healing. 

In this episode, we journey through the life and career of Nathan Payton, a sports nutrition expert whose passion was sparked by watching World’s Strongest Man competitions with his dad. Nathan shares how his path led him to work with elite athletes like Travis Ortmeyer and Brian Shaw, customizing nutrition strategies that supported record-breaking feats and recovery. From his early struggles introducing nutrition into the strongman world to his role in transforming how these athletes fuel and train, Nathan offers insights into the grit, mental resilience, and science-backed strategies that define his work. Together with Brian, they discuss overcoming injuries, the impact of family support, and the importance of tailored nutrition in the demanding sport of strongman. This episode is a deep dive into the dedication and innovation that power the strongest athletes on the planet.

In this episode, Brian and Blaine dig into the power of getting outside your comfort zone, sharing how intense competition and "sink or swim" moments have shaped their lives. Blaine reflects on his early days lifting in his dad’s garage, his rise in football, and his passion for powerlifting, with stories of grueling solo workouts, massive lifts, and the drive to keep pushing even after injuries. Brian discusses how lifting changed his confidence and the discipline it takes to stay mentally sharp under heavy weight. Together, they reveal the mental grit, intense focus, and sacrifices needed to thrive in sports and strength training. 

In this episode, Mitch opens up about his journey from struggling with confidence to becoming a successful strongman competitor. He shares pivotal moments, including moving to Australia for a fresh start, running a marathon on a challenge from his mom, and tackling mental health struggles. Mitch discusses the discipline and habits that drive his success, the importance of giving back, and his philosophy of only taking on the toughest challenges. As he looks to the future, Mitch talks about his goal to win as many strongman shows as he can, complete an Ironman, and make a lasting impact in the sport of strongman. 

In this episode, Brian Shaw and Hafthor Björnsson candidly discuss the challenges they've faced throughout their strongman careers, from corruption and unfair practices to career-defining injuries. They open up about the frustration of competing in compromised events where some athletes had access to insider information, as well as the physical toll of nerve damage, muscle loss, and debilitating injuries. Despite these setbacks, they share stories of pushing through the pain, driven by their love for the sport and the sacrifices they've made over nearly two decades. This episode offers a rare glimpse into the mental strength, resilience, and dedication required to be a strongman champion, shedding light on the high stakes and sacrifices involved in staying at the top.

In this episode, legendary powerlifter Ed Coan reflects on the end of his competitive career and the mindset that drove him to greatness. He emphasizes the importance of knowing when to walk away—preferring to quit while on top rather than settle for mediocrity. Ed shares how his meticulously planned training was solely for himself, unimpacted by sponsors or outside pressures, and discusses the pivotal role that purpose and a clear "why" played in his journey. As he navigates life after competition, Ed reveals the challenges he faced without that driving force and highlights the potential for growth that everyone possesses when they have clear goals. He also underscores the significance of surrounding oneself with the right people, illustrating how a supportive environment can elevate success and help push boundaries.

ON THIS EPISODE, BRIAN IS JOINED BY DEVON LARRATT, WIDELY CONSIDERED TO BE ONE OF THE GREATEST ARM WRESTLERS OF ALL TIME. THEY  DIVE INTO DEVON'S REMARKABLE CAREER  INCLUDING HIS SERVICE IN THE CANADIAN SPECIAL FORCES, HIS LEGENDARY MATCHES, AND THE UNIQUE TRAINING REGIMES THAT HAVE MADE HIM A WORLD CHAMPION.  THEY ALSO DISCUSS BRIAN JOINING THE SPORT AND WHAT IT WILL TAKE FOR HIM TO DO WELL.   DEVON HAS PLAYED A HUGE ROLE IN EXPOSING  THE SPORT OF ARM WRESTLING TO A MUCH BIGGER AUDIENCE AND HAS HELPED THE SPORT GROW IN MANY WAYS.  

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ON THIS EPISODE, BRIAN WELCOMES THE 2017 WORLD'S STRONGEST MAN AND DEADLIFT RECORD HOLDER, EDDIE HALL. TOGETHER, THEY DIVE INTO THE INTENSE TRAINING REGIMENS AND THE SIGNIFICANT TIME SPENT IN PREPARATION FOR A HIGHLY ANTICIPATED MMA FIGHT IN THE MIDDLE EAST. DESPITE THEIR EFFORTS, THE FIGHT WAS CANCELED, RESULTING IN FINANCIAL LOSSES FOR BOTH OF THEM. THEY ALSO EXPLORE WHETHER THE DRIVE TO BE THE BEST IS INNATE OR DEVELOPED DURING THE EARLY YEARS OF LIFE.

ON THIS EPISODE, BRIAN IS JOINED BY COMEDIAN AND ACTOR BRYAN CALLEN. THEY DIVE INTO BRIAN'S PAST COMMITMENT TO HIS GRUELING TRAINING AND EATING REGIMENS AND THE PROFOUND IMPORTANCE OF MENTAL TOUGHNESS. THEY ALSO DISCUSS THE IMPORTANCE OF HAVING A MASCULINE FIGURE IN CHILDREN'S LIVES, AS WELL AS THE NEED FOR A GOOD AGENT TO NEGOTIATE DEALS ON THEIR BEHALF.

IN THIS EPISODE BRIAN IS JOINED BY DEREK WOLFE. DEREK WON A SUPER BOWL WITH THE DENVER BRONCOS AS A DEFENSIVE END. THEY DIVE INTO DEREK'S JOURNEY AND COVER TOPICS SUCH AS HIS INJURIES, DRIVE, PASSION, AND RELENTLESS PURSUIT OF SUCCESS IN THE NFL. THE CONVERSATION EXTENDS TO DEREK'S FORMATIVE YEARS AND THE CHALLENGES HE CONFRONTED DURING HIS CHILDHOOD. THEY ALSO TOUCH ON THE SIGNIFICANCE OF FINDING THE RIGHT SPOUSE AND HOW THAT CAN PROFOUNDLY SHAPE ONE'S FUTURE.