Primal Foundations Podcast

Tony Pascolla

Welcome to the Primal Foundations Podcast! We will dive into what I believe are the 4 essential foundations you need to live a healthy lifestyle.      Strength , Nutrition , Movement , and Recovery.    Get ready to dive into discussions that will guide you on your transformative journey to unlocking your path to optimal health. Don't miss out on the latest episodes – subscribe now to the Primal Foundations Podcast. 

  1. Episode 54: No Gimmicks, Just Gains with Jim Wendler 5/3/1

    05/22/2025

    Episode 54: No Gimmicks, Just Gains with Jim Wendler 5/3/1

    Send us a text The search for the perfect strength training program often leads to over-complication, but Jim Wendler—creator of the iconic 5-3-1 program and former elite powerlifter who once squatted 1,000 pounds—makes a compelling case for simplicity. In this episode, Wendler shares how his lifelong commitment to consistent, basic training transformed him from an average athlete into a multi-sport standout and shaped his no-nonsense coaching philosophy. We dive into his current work revamping a small-town high school football program, where his simple, repeatable training approach has turned a struggling team into playoff regulars and state finalists—all without flashy equipment or complex programming.  Wendler explains why executing simple movements with perfect form, building muscle methodically, and fostering belief in young athletes leads to outsized results. He also challenges traditional strength dogma—favoring light weights, extended time at consistent loads, and assistance work—proving that “more isn’t better, better is better.” Whether you’re a coach, athlete, or just looking to get stronger, this conversation will reframe how you think about training. Follow Jim on Instagram @jimwendler and catch his Friday live Q&As on YouTube. Connect with Jim: @jimwendler www.jimwendler.com www.youtube.com/@JimWendler Book: 5/3/1 - The Simplest and Most Effective Training System for Raw Strength Link to the Jim Wendler Forum Support the show PRIMAL FOUNDATIONS PODCAST- Instagram: @Tony_PrimalFoundations Website: Primalfoundations.com The Strength Kollective: Download Kettlebell Programs (Click Here) Book a free 30 minutes consultation (Click Here)

    1h 13m
  2. Episode 53: Strength as a Skill with Michael Kurkowski

    05/12/2025

    Episode 53: Strength as a Skill with Michael Kurkowski

    Send us a text What if the key to lasting fitness success isn’t found in the latest workout trend, but in understanding your identity? In this episode, Michael Kurkowski—strength coach with 15 years of experience and host of The Strength Connection podcast—shares powerful insights into the psychology behind sustainable progress. After a hip injury as a teenager led him down a path of rehabilitation and movement quality, Michael discovered the transformative power of proper assessment and mindset work. He explains how the pandemic revealed a widespread struggle with autonomy in training and how true change stems not just from tactics, but from a deep belief in one’s ability to grow. Through stories of elite athletes, the power of fundamentals, and his own evolution from structured training to earned autonomy, Michael offers practical wisdom for coaches and everyday fitness enthusiasts alike. This conversation dives deep into building confidence through mastery, creating habits that stick, and connecting physical strength to every other part of life. Connect with Michael:  The ONE Day Strength Challenge 5 Minute Mindset www.mystrengthconnection.com  @michael_strengthconnection Strength Connection Podcast (Apple) Strength Connection Podcast (Spotify) Support the show PRIMAL FOUNDATIONS PODCAST- Instagram: @Tony_PrimalFoundations Website: Primalfoundations.com The Strength Kollective: Download Kettlebell Programs (Click Here) Book a free 30 minutes consultation (Click Here)

    49 min
  3. Episode 51: Toxic Superfoods with Sally K Norton, MPH

    03/29/2025

    Episode 51: Toxic Superfoods with Sally K Norton, MPH

    Send us a text Sally K. Norton shares her powerful journey from health-conscious eater to chronically ill patient, and the surprising discovery that changed everything. After decades of unexplained pain, surgeries, and symptoms that baffled doctors, Sally found that the real culprit was oxalates—compounds found in popular “superfoods” like spinach, almonds, and sweet potatoes. These molecules can crystallize in the body, causing inflammation and tissue damage. Ironically, those most committed to eating clean may suffer the most. Sally breaks down how oxalates build up over time, why they affect people differently, and why standard blood tests usually miss them.  This episode offers practical advice on identifying high-oxalate foods, transitioning to a lower-oxalate diet, and rethinking common beliefs around food. From fruit and coffee to why milk chocolate may be a better choice than dark, Sally offers a science-backed perspective that could be the missing piece in your health puzzle. Connect with Sally: @sknorton @toxicsuperfoods_oxalate_book https://sallyknorton.com/ YouTube Channel  Toxic Superfoods: How Oxalate Overload Is Making You Sick--and How to Get Better Facebook X (Twitter) Support the show PRIMAL FOUNDATIONS PODCAST- Instagram: @Tony_PrimalFoundations Website: Primalfoundations.com The Strength Kollective: Download Kettlebell Programs (Click Here) Book a free 30 minutes consultation (Click Here)

    1h 2m
  4. Bonus Episode: #5 The Art of Coaching: From Niches to Mindsets

    03/20/2025

    Bonus Episode: #5 The Art of Coaching: From Niches to Mindsets

    Send us a text Three veteran strength coaches—Nathan Bañuelos, Nikki Georgeson, and Tony Pascolla.—pull back the curtain on the realities of the personal training industry, bringing decades of combined experience to a candid discussion about coaching practices, business development, and the future of the profession. We explore how the pandemic reshaped client expectations, debating whether virtual training is here to stay or if in-person coaching is making a comeback.  For aspiring trainers, their advice is brutally honest: expect little return in the first few years, as the path to success demands long hours, financial uncertainty, and a steep learning curve.  We also stress the importance of mentorship and maintaining an abundance mindset in an industry where many guard their client lists. Rather than competition, they advocate for collaboration, believing that referring clients to the right coach ultimately strengthens one’s reputation and network. Whether you're a fitness professional looking for guidance or someone curious about what goes on behind the scenes in personal training, this episode offers raw and insightful perspectives on the dedication, challenges, and human connections that define great coaching.  Subscribe for more conversations that go beyond sets and reps to explore the deeper side of strength. Nikki Georgeson: @ngeorgeson linktr.ee/nikkiageorgeson Nathan Bañuelos: @nathanbanuelos_ linktr.ee/nathanbanuelos Tony Pascolla:  @tony_primalfoundations www.primalfoundations.com Let's Talk Strength Youtube Channel  https://www.youtube.com/@LetsTalkStrength Support the show PRIMAL FOUNDATIONS PODCAST- Instagram: @Tony_PrimalFoundations Website: Primalfoundations.com The Strength Kollective: Download Kettlebell Programs (Click Here) Book a free 30 minutes consultation (Click Here)

    1h 5m

Ratings & Reviews

4.9
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Primal Foundations Podcast! We will dive into what I believe are the 4 essential foundations you need to live a healthy lifestyle.      Strength , Nutrition , Movement , and Recovery.    Get ready to dive into discussions that will guide you on your transformative journey to unlocking your path to optimal health. Don't miss out on the latest episodes – subscribe now to the Primal Foundations Podcast. 

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