The Intentional Athlete Podcast

Ross Leppala
  • 5.0 (8)
  • HEALTH & FITNESS
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

Intentional strength. Purposeful life. Unstoppable growth. The Intentional Athlete Podcast is where strength meets self-discovery. Join host Ross Leppala, IPF World Champion and mindset-driven coach, as he explores what it means to train with intention and live with purpose. Each episode dives into the deeper layers of the strength journey — from mindset and emotional resilience to training strategies that empower sustainable progress. Whether you’re chasing PRs or pursuing personal growth, this podcast helps you connect the barbell to a bigger life. Lift with intention. Live with purpose.

  1. DEC 17

    When Goals go Quiet?

    Navigating the Void: A Deep Dive into Purpose Beyond PowerliftingIn this episode of the Intentional Athlete Podcast, host Ross Leppala welcomes powerlifting enthusiasts Mark Robb and Newton Cheng for a profound conversation about the evolution of their relationship with the sport. The trio explores the disorientation of reaching significant milestones, the ensuing 'what's next?' phase, and the balance between doing and being. They delve into topics like the emotional component of competing, letting go of attachments, the importance of community, and how to navigate a goal-less state. Whether you're a seasoned lifter, coach, or someone reevaluating your life's pursuits, this discussion offers valuable insights into aligning your mindset, emotions, and actions.00:00 Introduction to the Intentional Athlete Podcast00:51 Today's Special Guests: Mark and Newton01:18 Navigating the Unknown: Embracing Uncertainty02:04 Starting the Conversation: Mark and Newton's Journey04:31 The Pursuit of Strength: Achievements and Challenges07:04 Shifting Passions: Beyond Powerlifting11:32 Spiritual Growth and Emotional Awareness17:40 The Power of Presence and Community38:59 Manifesting Your Path: Belief and Creation49:03 Childhood Lessons and Generational Differences50:30 The Discomfort of the Void51:24 Powerlifting Anecdotes and Emotional Challenges53:47 Philosophical Shifts and Modern Challenges55:55 Navigating Goals and Emotional States58:52 Balancing Attachment and Non-Attachment01:03:45 Spiritual Growth and Powerlifting01:20:39 The Role of Fear and Control01:30:43 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections

    1h 35m

  2. NOV 19

    Strength, Spirit, and Purpose - “You and me God, let’s go!”

    In this episode of the Intentional Athlete Podcast, host Ross Leppala is joined by powerlifting legend Sioux-z Hartwig-Gary. Sioux-z shares her journey from her early days of training to becoming a decorated champion with multiple world records. The episode dives into the importance of training with intentionality, embracing life's ups and downs, and the spiritual aspect of strength training. Susie's anecdotes and pearls of wisdom offer invaluable insights on how to channel the pursuit of strength into something transformative and fulfilling. Tune in for an enriching conversation that explores the mental, emotional, and spiritual facets of an athlete's journey.00:00 Introduction to the Intentional Athlete Podcast00:51 Special Guest: Susie Hartwood's Influence02:25 Sioux-z's Journey in Powerlifting05:54 Overcoming Challenges and Injuries09:56 The Importance of Longevity in Powerlifting15:12 Adjusting Expectations and Finding Joy19:37 The Value of Strength Training Beyond the Gym24:33 The Mental and Emotional Benefits of Lifting37:04 Competing at the Highest Level38:21 Balancing Coaching and Competing38:49 Handling Post-Competition Emotions39:58 Setting Realistic Goals40:55 Accepting Limitations and Focusing on Personal Bests42:16 Managing Expectations and Mental Health43:14 The Importance of Realistic Coaching44:13 Finding Pride in Personal Achievements45:26 Overcoming Disappointments in Competitions56:23 The Role of Faith in Powerlifting01:08:02 Future Goals and Personal Growth01:11:38 Final Words of Wisdom

    1h 13m

  3. NOV 5

    The persistent pursuit of strength, growth, and learning

    Persistent Progress: Nathaniel Hancock on Balancing Powerlifting, Family, and FaithIn this episode of the Intentional Athlete Podcast, host Ross Lela welcomes Nathaniel Hancock, a seasoned powerlifter with an extensive background in lifting, bodybuilding, and running. Nathaniel shares his journey from fitness modeling to achieving remarkable feats in powerlifting, all while balancing family, faith, and a full-time job. They discuss the importance of aligning one's mindset, body, and spirit, the transformative power of persistence, and the value of focusing on presence and community over competitive outcomes. Dive into this enriching conversation that explores how to channel the pursuit of strength into something deeper and more meaningful.Website: tiaexp.com/home00:00 Introduction to the Intentional Athlete Podcast00:51 Special Guest: Nathaniel Hancock01:58 Nathaniel's Fitness Journey05:26 The Importance of Persistence and Balance08:01 Navigating Motivation and Values13:35 Powerlifting and Family Life26:10 The Role of Influencers and Mentors35:35 The Long Win: Redefining Success38:13 Introduction to Alfred Adler's Philosophy38:51 Shifting Personal Narratives39:30 Sense of Belonging and Competition40:54 Inspiration from Fellow Lifters42:21 The Importance of Self-Belief45:34 Powerlifting as a Journey of Self-Discovery01:02:29 The Role of Faith in Fitness01:13:27 Gratitude and Personal Triumphs

    1h 17m

  4. OCT 8

    Beyond the Bar: Embracing Strength and Resilience in Life

    Overcoming Adversity & Embracing Change: Insights from Paul Oneid on Strength and MindsetWelcome to the Intentional Athlete Podcast, hosted by Ross Leppala, where we dive deep into how strength transcends the gym and impacts our lives. In this insightful episode, Ross invites Paul Oneid—strength and conditioning coach, powerlifter, and bodybuilding champion—who shares his journey from competing at an elite level in powerlifting to overcoming a traumatic injury. Paulo discusses how he pivoted to bodybuilding post-injury, the importance of aligning actions with core values, and maintaining a resilient mindset through life's challenges. This episode emphasizes the significance of intentionality, alignment of thoughts, feelings, and actions, and the enduring impact of overcoming adversity.00:00 Introduction to the Intentional Athlete Podcast00:51 Welcoming Paul Lo: A Journey of Strength and Recovery03:29 Paul's Powerlifting Pedigree and Injury08:37 The Road to Recovery: Overcoming Adversity13:30 Mindset Shift: From Setback to Opportunity23:24 Intrinsic vs Extrinsic Motivation in Recovery33:29 Defining Personal Identity Beyond Roles34:04 The Importance of Core Values35:46 Personal Experiences and Realizations37:32 The Intentional Athlete39:25 Challenges and Adaptations in Training43:30 Long-Term Success in Powerlifting57:23 Transition to Bodybuilding58:56 Controlling the Controllables01:02:33 Reflections on Personal Growth01:07:04 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

    1h 9m

  5. SEP 24

    Lifting with Purpose: Insights from a powerlifting Psychologist

    Join host Ross Leppala in an insightful episode of The Intentional Athlete Podcast featuring Ashton Rouska, a distinguished powerlifter, and licensed psychologist, as they discuss the profound connection between strength training, personal growth, and emotional well-being. In this conversation, Ross and Ashton explore the transformative journey of training, emphasizing the importance of mindset, emotional regulation, and the interplay between life and gym experiences. Ashton shares his inspiring story, from his early days in powerlifting to overcoming significant injuries while balancing his roles as an army officer and a new father. Dive deep into the psychological aspects of lifting and learn actionable strategies for sustainable training, emotional resilience, and living with intention. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or new to the sport, this episode offers valuable insights to elevate your training and life.00:00 Introduction to the Intentional Athlete Podcast00:51 Special Guest: Ashton Rouska01:30 Ashton's Powerlifting Journey04:26 Balancing Life and Lifting13:54 The Psychology of Powerlifting25:30 Handling Setbacks and Injuries35:47 Balancing Regulation and Percentage-Based Training37:44 Psychological Strategies for Effective Training39:28 The Importance of Flexibility in Training40:12 Avoiding Burnout and Emotional Maturity44:48 Navigating Injuries and Major Life Events49:30 Lessons from Personal and Family Experiences01:04:06 The Role of Patience and Grace in Training and Life01:09:05 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

    1h 10m

  6. AUG 27

    The catalyst of Change: a journey of strength & sobriety with Theo Harris

    Welcome to the Intentional Athlete Podcast with Ross Leppala. In this episode, Ross chats with Theo Harris, a powerlifter and coach, about his transformative journey with lifting weights. Theo opens up about his battles with alcoholism, overcoming personal challenges, and how lifting became his path to sobriety and self-discovery. They discuss the importance of training with intention, how strength training helped Theo reconnect with himself and his family, and the profound life lessons that lifting has taught him. Join us as we explore how pursuing strength with purpose can lead to personal growth and lasting fulfillment.The Intentional Athlete Experience00:00 Introduction to the Intentional Athlete Podcast00:52 Meet Theo Harris: A Lifter's Journey02:28 The Disciples of Steel: A Community of Strength05:18 A Life-Changing Health Scare08:35 The Transformative Power of Lifting15:13 Parenting and Personal Growth28:44 The Role of Therapy in Healing32:45 Finding Meaning and Purpose37:19 Therapy and Self-Discovery38:44 Parenting and Personal Growth41:10 Powerlifting and External Validation41:50 Balancing Life and Training47:20 The Importance of Consistency54:26 Honesty and Vulnerability in Relationships01:00:55 Failure and Success in Training01:05:25 Final Reflections and Gratitude

    1h 10m

  7. AUG 13

    Intentional Training: How Mindfulness Elevates Athletic Performance

    Join host Ross Leppala on the Intentional Athlete Podcast as he welcomes Zach Morrow, a dedicated powerlifter from Canada. Together, they explore Zach's journey in powerlifting, his experience with reactive training systems, and the transformative impact of the Intentional Athlete Experience. Learn how Zach has integrated meditation, breathwork, and intentional training to elevate not only his athletic performance but also his personal life. This conversation dives deep into how intentionality in training spills over into all aspects of life, offering valuable insights for lifters, coaches, and anyone aiming to live with purpose. The Intentional Athlete Experience00:00 Introduction to the Intentional Athlete Podcast00:52 Welcoming Zach Morrow02:26 Zach's Powerlifting Journey04:04 Training with Intention08:51 Implementing Meditation and Breath Work22:26 Decision Making in Training31:03 Overcoming Personal Challenges36:57 Seeking Validation and Its Impact on Relationships38:33 The Power of Breathing Exercises40:29 Overcoming Limiting Beliefs41:47 Applying Lessons to Daily Life43:52 Understanding and Forgiving Past Traumas45:37 Reflections on Recent Competitions51:13 The Importance of Being Present56:24 Personal Growth Through Meditation01:05:25 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

    1h 9m

  8. AUG 6

    Unleashing Potential: Mindset Strategies with Gary Chupik

    Welcome to The Intentional Athlete Podcast, hosted by Ross Leppala. In this episode, Ross sits down with Gary Chupik, the founder of Elite Mindset, to discuss the transformative power of mindset in both sports and life. Gary shares his journey from being a dual citizen and a sports enthusiast to becoming a sought-after mental performance coach. They delve into Gary's experience with high-level athletes from the NFL and MLB, and how his principles apply equally to business leaders. Gary introduces the concept of the 'Mental Health Bridge Assessment' featuring four pillars: Crisis, Coping, Thriving, and Transcending, and how these help in identifying where an athlete stands and how they can progress. This episode is packed with insightful conversation, tools, and techniques aimed at helping athletes and individuals align their mindset, body, and spirit for lasting growth and performance. Don't miss out on this enlightening discussion that promises to boost your athletic and personal development. https://www.elitemindsetnation.com/00:00 Introduction to the Intentional Athlete Podcast00:55 Special Guest Introduction: Gary Chic02:22 Gary's Background and Experience03:06 Mindset and Performance in Athletics and Business05:48 The Illusion of Choice and Consistency09:08 Gary's Journey and Philosophy12:32 Identity and Purpose in Coaching15:43 Mindset Equation and Personal Beliefs24:49 Understanding Variable Experiences26:33 The Pillar Analogy in Mental Health27:28 Mental Health Bridge Assessment29:03 Bridging Pillars to Improve Performance32:08 The SFO Principle: Self-Care for Better Performance33:47 Applying Mental Performance in Athletics37:14 Transcending in Athletic Performance43:20 The Importance of Community and Continuous Growth46:24 Final Thoughts and How to Connect

    50 min
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About

Intentional strength. Purposeful life. Unstoppable growth. The Intentional Athlete Podcast is where strength meets self-discovery. Join host Ross Leppala, IPF World Champion and mindset-driven coach, as he explores what it means to train with intention and live with purpose. Each episode dives into the deeper layers of the strength journey — from mindset and emotional resilience to training strategies that empower sustainable progress. Whether you’re chasing PRs or pursuing personal growth, this podcast helps you connect the barbell to a bigger life. Lift with intention. Live with purpose.

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