The Strength Connection

Michael Kurkowski
  • 5.0 (35)
  • FITNESS
  • UPDATED DAILY

Exploring Strength: Body, Mind and Spirit.  The Strength Connection goes beyond the gym to uncover the lessons, stories, and wisdom that build resilience and purpose in every area of life.  Join host Michael Kurkowski as he connects with world-class coaches, athletes, and leaders to reveal what true strength really means.

  1. 4D AGO

    A Trainer for Life w/ Lee Boyce

    Welcome to the Strength Connection! Lee Boyce is a coach, speaker, author and internationally published writer with over 1200 publications in health and fitness from Toronto. In this episode, Lee shares his 19-year journey in fitness, coaching, and writing. Discover how early influences, overcoming injury, and staying true to his authentic voice have shaped his approach to training, coaching, and lifelong learning. Check out more from Lee at: https://www.leeboyce.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/coachleeboyce/?hl=en Book: Strength Training For All Body Types:  https://us.humankinetics.com/products/strength-training-for-all-body-types Chapters 00:00 The Journey Begins: Lee Boyce's Fitness Origins 07:52 The Power of Writing in Fitness 14:06 Overcoming Challenges: The Impact of Injury 20:13 Shifting Perspectives: Redefining Strength and Training 28:56 Holistic Training: Listening to Your Body 31:23 Adapting Training Approaches 32:24 In-Person vs Online Coaching Dynamics 36:29 The Pride of Personal Training 37:56 The Importance of In-Person Coaching 44:25 The Value of Experience in Coaching 46:28 Evolving Coaching Perspectives 51:10 Balancing Client Needs and Wants 53:51 Navigating Challenging Times 59:25 Going the Extra Mile for Dedicated Clients

    1h 1m

  2. APR 20

    Strength for All Body Types w/ Melody Schoenfeld

    Welcome to the Strength Connection! Melody Schoenfeld, MA, CSCS, has well over 28 years of personal training experience and was 2019's NSCA Personal Trainer of the Year. Melody holds a master's degree in Health Psychology. In this episode, Melody shares her 30-year journey in strength training, coaching, and her unique insights into body types, strength modalities, and the evolution of her coaching approach. Discover how her diverse experiences inspire a personalized approach to fitness and strength. Check out more from Melody: Strength Training For All Body Types:  https://us.humankinetics.com/products/strength-training-for-all-body-types Diet Lies And Weight Loss Truths:  https://us.humankinetics.com/products/diet-lies-and-weight-loss-truths Pleasure Not Meating You:  https://www.amazon.com/Pleasure-Not-Meating-You-Science-Based/dp/151362895X us.humankinetics.com Chapters 00:00 The Journey into Coaching 02:46 From Imposter to Impact: Early Coaching Experiences 05:44 The Evolution of Coaching Philosophy 08:29 Discovering Strength: The Appeal of Powerlifting and Strongman 11:29 Overcoming Self-Doubt: The Role of Competition 14:36 The Art of Bending: A Unique Strength Challenge 17:22 The Importance of Competition in Training 20:26 Common Challenges in Modern Coaching 25:03 The Sedentary Lifestyle and Motivation to Move 25:56 The Power of Strength Training 27:23 Transformative Moments in Fitness 28:14 The Evolution of Goal Setting 30:11 Defining Strength and Fitness Goals 32:29 Body Types and Strength Training 35:50 Adapting Movements for Different Body Types 38:52 The Dynamics of Online Coaching 41:46 The Challenges of Online Coaching

    49 min

  3. APR 13

    Reinforcement over Punishment is the KEY w/ Huggy McNiff

    Welcome to the Strength Connection! Huggy McNiff is Performance & Nutrition Coach with Trevor Kashey Nutrition, and one of the most impactful people I’ve ever worked with in my life. In this episode, Huggy shares insights on behavior change, mastery, and sustainable success in fitness and life. Discover how deep knowledge, precise language, and effective reinforcement strategies can transform your approach to health and personal growth. Check out more from Huggy at: IG: https://www.instagram.com/coach_huggybear5326?igsh=MWJzaTI3emRpeDIyMA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr 50 % off TKN Summer Shred program: https://go.trevorkasheynutrition.com/kickstart-your-summer---podcast Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Impact 05:26 The Journey of Coaching and Personal Growth 09:53 Behavior Modification and Coaching Principles 16:27 The Role of Integrity in Mental Toughness 20:38 Approach to Client Success and Long-Term Change 21:41 Behavior Change Through Observation 24:19 The Role of Coaches in Modeling Behavior 25:16 Misconceptions in Nutrition: The 80-20 Rule 28:15 The Importance of Precision in Nutrition 29:41 Integration vs. Balance in Life 31:51 Intuitive Eating: A Skill to Master 36:39 Efficacy vs. Confidence in Coaching 37:59 Developing Autonomy in Clients 43:09 The Importance of Social Support

    45 min

  4. APR 6

    Unlock Your Inner Coach w/ Tom Mitchell

    Welcome to the Strength Connection! Tom Mitchell, Ph.D. is a Performance Coach and founder of Winning Spirit Coach, helping business leaders, athletes, and high-level performers discover their greatness within. As the former sport psychologist for the NBA's Golden State Warriors and co-author of an Amazon #1 Best Seller with NFL legend Joe Montana. In this insightful interview, Tom shares his journey from a basketball player to a renowned sports psychologist working with NBA teams like the Warriors. Discover his unique practices, including visualization and asking powerful questions, and learn how mindset and inner coaching drive peak performance. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Coaching and Sports Psychology 02:55 Transition from Player to Coach 05:57 The Influence of Mentorship 08:55 The Journey to the Golden State Warriors 11:49 Visualization Techniques and Index Cards 14:42 Role of a Sports Psychologist in Professional Sports 24:21 The Role of Sports Psychology in Player Development 32:34 The Power of Questions in Coaching 35:49 Lessons from Coaching Legends 39:34 The Obsession of Champions 45:10 Reflections on Coaching and Life

    47 min

  5. MAR 30

    5 Elements of Anti-Aging w/ Carlos Cintron

    Welcome to the Strength Connection! Carlos Cintron is the Founder/CEO of RVRSBL, a science-driven brand reversing biological age and extending lifespan. In this episode, Carlos shares his comprehensive approach to longevity and anti-aging, emphasizing the importance of spirituality, mindset, movement, nutrition, and functional medicine. Discover practical strategies, the role of peptides, and how to age gracefully with vitality. Check out more from Carlos at: Book: https://us.amazon.com/Aging-Inevitable-Getting-Old-Choice-ebook/dp/B0G21SJ3QR/ref=sr_1_9 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cintron11/ LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlos-cintron-8b57b828/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Longevity and Anti-Aging 01:57 The Five Elements of Life 09:59 Mindset and Spirituality in Aging 19:42 Conformity and Individuality in Health 25:28 The Journey of Self-Discovery 27:27 Aging by the Decades: Understanding Biological Changes 28:32 Peptides: The Buzz in Health and Wellness 30:39 Navigating the World of Peptides 32:56 Finding the Right Approach to Peptides 35:34 Mitochondrial Health: The Key to Vitality 39:20 Common Questions in Functional Medicine 42:26 Integrating Spirituality and Mindset in Health 45:04 The Framework for a Healthier Life

    48 min

  6. MAR 23

    The Iron Council part III w/ Brett Jones, DJ Wittekind, and Mark Subias

    Welcome to the Strength Connection! The Iron Council part III. I am rejoined by Brett Jones, DJ Wittekind, and Mark Subias in this roundtable talk on minimalism, strength as a way to build character, and more. In this conversation, we explore the concepts of minimal effective dose, building character through strength training, and the booming recovery industry. We discuss how to train smarter, avoid gimmicks, and focus on meaningful progress and resilience. Follow Brett, DJ, and Mark at: Brett: https://www.instagram.com/brettjonessfg/?hl=en DJ: https://www.instagram.com/queencitykettlebell/ Mark: https://www.instagram.com/subiasm/?hl=en Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Weather Mood 01:18 The Misinterpretation of Minimal Effective Dose 03:23 Biohacking and Its Limits 05:04 Fundamentals of Recovery: Sleep, Nutrition, Stress 07:34 The Dangers of Gimmicks in Recovery 08:50 Efficiency vs. Effectiveness in Training 10:46 Balancing More and Less in Training 11:49 Approach to Training with Time Constraints 14:55 The Role of Goals and Process 16:14 The Importance of Setting Goals 20:28 The Boom of the Recovery Industry 22:43 Building Character in the Gym 24:22 Training Reveals Character 26:43 The Value of Hard Training and Character 31:47 Hard Training Builds Resilience 34:01 The Power of Competition 39:25 Training and Resilience in Life 44:59 Staying the Course in Training 46:26 Exploring Ideas and Continuous Learning

    47 min

  7. MAR 16

    Training for Peace and Clarity over Validation w/ Paul Lynsgo

    Welcome to the Strength Connection! Paul Lynsgo is a seasoned mentor and author, known for his work in redefining fitness and success beyond traditional metrics. His insights come from over 15 years of coaching men to live intentionally, with clarity and purpose.  Most of us chase goals that aren’t truly ours, until we hit pause and ask, "What do I really want?"  Paul reveals how ditching the hustle for clarity and enjoyment can massively accelerate your growth and fulfillment.In this episode, Paul shares his transformative journey from relentless goal-chasing to cultivating a life and training approach rooted in joy and authenticity.  Check out more from Paul at: https://www.instagram.com/paul.lyngso/ https://lyngsopaul.com/ His book: https://us.amazon.com/Metaphysique-Perspective-Fitness-Nutrition-Beyond-ebook/dp/B0F19FSRPS/ref=sr_1_3?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.TlKWkFj_CNjBqM3S8ZsjLAWlI4e-QUqSTT17UxukNPjGjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.St_4Nl1GfkCcRb-QtMWapa-PFi8cIotzU4v-7sFg_T0&dib_tag=se&qid=1773500374&refinements=p_27%3APaul++Lyngs%C3%B8&s=digital-text&sr=1-3

    52 min

  8. MAR 9

    The Formula of Champions w/ Alberto Uncini Manganelli

    Welcome to the Strength Connection! Alberto Uncini Manganelli is a former VP of Adidas and author of the book The Formula of Formulas, where he interviewed 22 world champions, asking 11 questions about the keys to success at the highest level. In this insightful interview, Alberto Uncini Manganelli shares his journey from sports to business, revealing the mindset and habits that define champions. Discover how top athletes think about winning, resilience, and continuous improvement, and learn practical strategies to elevate your performance. Check out more from Alberto at: Instagram Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Alberto Uncini Manganelli 02:58 The Journey from Sports to Business 05:54 Decoding the Champion's Mindset 08:51 The Importance of Wanting to Win 12:03 The Role of Long-Term Goals 14:58 Insights from Top Athletes 17:45 The Skill of Resilience and Resetting 20:42 The Margins of Success 23:16 Raising Standards Through Incremental Gains 28:53 The Power of Rituals and Mindset in Performance 34:21 Individualization in Training Methods 40:12 Expectations vs. Standards in Achieving Success

    43 min
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5
out of 5
35 Ratings

About

Exploring Strength: Body, Mind and Spirit.  The Strength Connection goes beyond the gym to uncover the lessons, stories, and wisdom that build resilience and purpose in every area of life.  Join host Michael Kurkowski as he connects with world-class coaches, athletes, and leaders to reveal what true strength really means.

Information

  • Creator
    Michael Kurkowski
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    327
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Strength Connection
  • Show Website
    The Strength Connection

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