#130 - Powerlifting for real life — Whiskey and Barbells episode

This is a really common misunderstanding people have about powerlifting:
They think it's all about "maxing out" and chasing medals.

But the best powerlifters I know train to be better in life — not just for meets.

In this in-person episode of Whiskey and Barbells, I sat down with my own coach, Kurtis Tallaire — a national-level powerlifter who's been in the game for over a decade, both as an athlete and a coach.

Today, he trains athletes who are crushing international meets.

Kurtis and I take a deeper, practical look at powerlifting principles — not just for competitors, but for the everyday lifter who wants strength that supports their life, their body, and their longevity.

We get into:

• Why powerlifting is a mindset, not just a sport
• How a strong squat looks different from a “textbook” squat
• The right way (and wrong way) to use a weight belt
• Strength training vs. bodybuilding — and why they feel so different
• Progressive overload and why it still works
• How to build strength without obsessing over your 1RM
• Training principles that make workouts feel easier over time
• The importance of sleep and recovery for strength gains
• Specific cues for improving bench, squat, and deadlift
• Core strength tips to protect your back
• My recent competition recap — what I’d do differently

This episode is great if you care about getting stronger for real life — whether you train for performance, health, or just to feel powerful in your body.

Find more from Kurtis on Instagram:​
​@kurtis.t