The Squat Plug

In this episode, we sit down with Sean Muir, former president of the APU. We discus how the Federation came to be, what it did during its brief existence, the controversy during that time, and how ultimately unraveled and how the social media hype train can be a very destructive force.

In this episode of The Squat Plug, Sean Koch (@seankoch_official) discusses his journey as a powerlifter from Liechtenstein, his experiences and the implications of Article 14 on athletes' rights, and the ongoing legal battles against the IPF. Sean shares insights into his recent competition at the USAPL Collegiate Nationals (@usapowerlifting), his transition to Midland University, and the implications of Article 14 on athletes. The conversation delves into the challenges of funding his legal fight and the broader impact of these issues on the sport of powerlifting.

In this episode, we sit down with Brooke Reynolds ( @powerbrookie ) and discuss her experience with domestic abuse at the hands of a popular lifter in the community and its reception within the community: the support, the denial, and the rug brushing that took place.

On this episode of the Squat Plug, Mark and Ylli are joined by Powerlifting coach Sean Collins and recent Article 14 alumnus Zack Larmer to discus Zack's sudden suspension 2 weeks out from PLA Nationals after competing at a local meet last November.We discuss their decision making process, what they expected would happen, and what their thoughts about the whole situation are.Should coaches and lifters support Federations that act so selfishly? Tune in…

On this episode of The Squat Plug, Mark and Ylli are joined by repeat guest Gabe Inman (@swolehousecookie⁠⁠) and discuss strength training outside of powerlifting, how conditioning aids strength training, Gabe's trip to Brazil, a high ass and fake ass world record squat, and Gabe's decision to intentionally reduce his aura before the episode.Tune in. Like, comment, subscribe, and Auramaxx.

In this episode the boys speak with Son Ngo (@_15for15) and Minh Dang (@md_after_dusk), the co-chairs of USAPL Vietnam.We go over the discrepancies in rule enforcement and corruption & favoritism in the IPF's dealings in Vietnam and elsewhere. We also discuss the Vietnam IPF affiliate's legal woes and some ridiculous fraudster shenanigans.Also: Supertotals.Please feel free to comment, like, subscribe and share.If you have questions or want to let us know your thoughts on any of the topics covered, you can always drop a comment on the platform you're hearing/viewing us this episode through or you can also DM us ⁠@thesquatplug⁠A few helpful links:⁠Minh Dang @md_after_duskSon Ngo @_15for15⁠The Squat Plug ⁠@thesquatplug

Gaston Parage has officially resigned as president of the IPF. Rumors swirl, screenshots have been shared, and the complicity of the rest of the IPF's leadership in sweeping these allegations under the rug is being brought into question.-Join the boys and @train.true as they discuss the recent and tumultuous history of the IPF in Episode 35 of the Squat Plug - Power Grifters - Episode 5: Gaston Parage and the IPF Rugsweepers

Danny Torres (@dltgains) joins the boys on this episode of The Squat Plug to do a recap of the Sheffield 2025. The boys analyze the performance of the key lifters, the impact of the venue and the equipment, and the importance of attempt selection strategies. They speak about the consequences of ref's decisions on the athletes' performances, showing the need for consistency in judging. Danny Torres is a powerlifter, a Powerlifting Coach, and a Novice Strongman athlete. Tune in!

In this episode of the Squat Plug, the crew is joined by Gabe Inman (⁠@swolehousecookie⁠) to discus strength training outside of powerlifting, programming within powerlifting, the unique demands of each lifter, and Article 14: a brief history

On this episode of The Squat Plug, the boys circle back last years hit series “Power Grifters” and look into how things have changed after bringing up quite a few scandals and scams too light. 2024 was a wild year... Check out the Top 5 list of the 2023/2024 Power Grifters list. We aint forget shit. Stanek spoke on his side of the story. Flores makes amends? Sullivan, Haddad, Bailey. What are they up to? Find out on this episode and let's see what 2025 has in store.

The boys sit with Jan Daurio ( @jandaurio ) and draw out a road map for how to go from being an individual that is just looking to better themselves, up to becoming one of strongest Raw Powerlifters in America, and getting invited to the USAPL Pro Series. Jan also discusses the upcoming events and changes at USA Powerlifting ( @usapowerlifting ) in 2025. From Qualifying totals to international expansion, Jan helps the boys understand how to plan their 2025 meet strategies based on the updates to the process. Please feel free to comment, like, subscribe and share. If you have questions or want to let us know your thoughts on any of the topics covered, you can always drop a comment on the platform you're hearing/viewing us this episode through or you can also DM us @thesquatplug A few helpful links: USA Powerlifting @usapowerlifting USAPL Pro Series Jan Daurio @jandaurio The Squat Plug @thesquatplug --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-squat-plug6/support

In this episode the boys are back from 2024 USAPL Raw Nationals. The boys talk about if elevation can affect lifters differently during competitions. They speak about how reconciliation between federations could benefit the entire sport. The boys touch on a key flaw in federation events; Spectator Engagement. It's one more thing that federations need to figure out in order to help grow this sport. People that don't lift want to enjoy the sport too. Future Nationals in Atlanta may bring new opportunities. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-squat-plug6/support

In this episode the boys talk about how James will consider (and will be persuaded) to bring the boys some of those world famous San Antonio Churro Crumble Cookies with him to the 2024 USAPL Raw Nationals, in Salt Lake City, Utah. They also cover several lifters and talk about their expectations. The boys will be out in Salt Lake City, Utah to compete, help, and experience another round of the USAPL Raw Nationals. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-squat-plug6/support

In this episode, the Squat Plug goes over the many layers of Nico Flores' shenanigans in detail. Jeff Ko, Nico's former business partner and the man behind Garden Threads' short lived success, joins us to share his side of the story.Join us on the third episode of as we go down this rabbit hole together. And, as usual for Powergrifter episodes, this episode will be a little spicier than usual.You can reach out to TSP if you send us a text through this linkHosts:Mateo Manko @whitetoe_connoisseur Ylli Mujaj @brolicgramMark Doherty @mark_collaborativestrengthProducer:Producer Bestar Mujaj @beunz

The Squat Plug takes a breather.Mateo, Mark, and Ylli catch up and talk about what's on their minds at the moment.- The differences between Signature Series and Pro Series- Logistics and Design at White Toe- SponsorshipsLet us know what you think.Send us some questions.Enjoy.You can reach out to TSP if you send us a text through this linkHosts:Mateo Manko @whitetoe_connoisseur Ylli Mujaj @brolicgramMark Doherty @mark_collaborativestrengthProducer:Producer Bestar Mujaj @beunz

Send us a Text Message.Ylli  (@brolicgram) clears up the details of the Ashton Bailey (@toobuff4thisss) insanity that is finally being brought to light. The Mateo and Mark are trying to understand things as they happened by interviewing the whistleblower (Ylli). Mark, Ylli, and Mateo are covering a serious topic and exposing this controversy has been quite an experience. Trying to shed light on this topic has generated a lot of misdirection by some and misguided feelings by others and reactions instead of others focusing on the details and acting on putting an end to a dangerous individual with far reach, shameless disregard, and willingness to hurt others.Hosts:Mateo Manko @whitetoe_connoisseur Ylli Mujaj @brolicgramMark Doherty @mark_collaborativestrengthProducer:Producer Bestar Mujaj @beunz

Send us a Text Message.We start off with Mark (  @mark_collaborativestrength) getting into his experience at the 2024 USA Powerlifting Northeast Regional Championships in Portland, Maine.Check out Mark's Meet Recap - Meet RecapYlli (@brolicgram) and Mateo (@whitetoe_connoisseur)  made it to 2024 USA Powerlifting Rising Tide, in New Jersey. How'd it go? Well... They made it.Can you compare SBD Raleigh to The Arnolds ?And! Leg Sweeps, and Mugshots... What was she thinking?Hosts:Mateo Manko @whitetoe_connoisseur Ylli Mujaj @brolicgramMark Doherty @mark_collaborativestrengthProducer(s):Producer Bestar Mujaj @beunz

Send us a Text Message.The Plug Boys compare and contrast the Signature Series versus the Pro Series, coaches who poach clients, and the Bench Debacle in Las Vegas. Tune in and subscribe!Hosts:Mateo Manko @whitetoe_connoisseur Ylli Mujaj @brolicgramMark Doherty @mark_collaborativestrengthProducer(s):Producer Bestar Mujaj @beunz

In Episode 23  we dive headfirst into the debacle at the High School Powerlifting Nationals (special Squat Suit competition). We all learn the secret weapon some competitors swear by: slingshots! Scrapping.Hosts:Mateo Manko @whitetoe_connoisseur Ylli Mujaj @brolicgramMark Doherty @mark_collaborativestrengthProducer(s):Producer Bestar Mujaj @beunz

In this episode @jandaurio, Technical Manager @ United States of America Powerlifting, meets with the boys at @sportofiron to discuss changes in the @usapowerlifting with regard to their international ambitions, the evolution of their events, new meet requirements and processes among other things.Hosts:Mateo Manko @whitetoe_connoisseur Ylli Mujaj @brolicgramMark Doherty @mark_collaborativestrengthProducer(s):Producer Bestar Mujaj @beunz

Hey!This episode of The Squat Plug, our focus is on Joe Stanek and the shit he did behind the scenes with his lifters and to Game Day Barbell. It's more or less an introduction into what's taking place there. It shows the enormity of his actions and his actions and his wrongdoings while also showing how people in powerlifting have tried to brush it under the rug for years.What has come to light, of late, is not news. It's not stuff that's been unknown to people. This is been stuff that has been old news for a good long while. Hosts:Mateo Manko @whitetoe_connoisseur Ylli Mujaj @brolicgramMark Doherty @mark_collaborativestrengthProducer(s):Producer Bestar Mujaj @beunz

In this episode we talk about our experiences at the USAPL 2024 the Arnold Sport Festival , the whole crew was there! The Squat Plug touches on momentum in attempt selection, Meet day strategies, and Yllis' Spectacular Bomb-out.Special Guest: Dr. Sophia Veiras, DPT, BRMhttps://www.instagram.com/soph.squats/Hosts:Mateo Manko @whitetoe_connoisseur Ylli Mujaj @brolicgramMark Doherty @mark_collaborativestrengthProducer(s):Producer Bestar Mujaj @beunz

Welcome back to The Squat Plug.Season 2.What murda?Hosts:Mateo Manko @whitetoe_connoisseur Ylli Mujaj @brolicgramMark Doherty @mark_collaborativestrengthProducer(s):Producer Bestar Mujaj @beunz

Welcome to the Season Finale of The Squat Plug!We're wrapping up 2023 with a few meet-day tips and sharing a few of their experiences at a few competitions.We'll be back at the end of January and back with more tips, in-depth coverage of upcoming powerlifting competitions and some exclusive content for our paid subscriptions (coming soon).Hosts:Mateo Manko @whitetoe_connoisseur Ylli Mujaj @brolicgramMark Doherty @mark_collaborativestrengthProducer(s):Producer Bestar Mujaj @beunz

The boys meet at the Cabin and recap on the recent meet in Texas, happenings in the Powerlifting world, and dig into the the Virginia scoring controversy.Tl;drTexas had a lot going on in the last few weeks:- Wins at the Olympia- Eyebrows that once were- "A Mecca"... More like "An ATM"While Virginia decided to interpret the rules harshlyHosts:Mateo Manko @whitetoe_connoisseur Ylli Mujaj @brolicgramMark Doherty @mark_collaborativestrengthProducer(s):Producer Bestar Mujaj @beunz

The Squat Plug takes it easy before the flight to the 2023 USAPL Powerlifting Olympia International and Raw Challenge event in Orlando Florida. Hosts:Mateo Manko @whitetoe_connoisseur Ylli Mujaj @brolicgramMark Doherty @mark_collaborativestrengthProducer(s):Producer Bestar Mujaj @beunz

In this episode we go over the coming changes in USAPL NY State Chair, Jan Daurio .Welcome to a captivating episode of our podcast, where we delve deep into the dynamic world of powerlifting and the USAPL (USA Powerlifting) with a special focus on the New York State Chair, Jan Daurio (@jandaurio).In this episode, we're your guides through the evolving landscape of the USAPL, as we navigate through the exciting changes that are afoot with Jan Daurio (@jandaurio). Daurio's role as the New York State Chair is at the epicenter of powerlifting's evolution in the Empire State, and we explore the vision and plans that he brings to the table. As an influential figure in the USAPL community, Jan's insights and initiatives are bound to have a profound impact on the sport.Jan Daurio: @jandaurioHosts:Mateo Manko @whitetoe_connoisseur Ylli Mujaj @brolicgramMark Doherty @mark_collaborativestrengthProducer(s):Producer Bestar Mujaj @beunz

This episode we speak with Brian about testing methods, chemicals in bodies, Fake Natties, Oh! And some federation updates. Special Guest:  The Senior Toxicologist at Westchester County Dept. of Labs and Research, Brian Scharf, Ph.DHosts:Mateo Manko @whitetoe_connoisseurYlli Mujaj @brolicgramMark Doherty @mark_collaborativestrengthProducer(s):Producer Bestar Mujaj @beunzHosts:Mateo Manko @whitetoe_connoisseur Ylli Mujaj @brolicgramMark Doherty @mark_collaborativestrengthProducer(s):Producer Bestar Mujaj @beunz

In this episode we talk about our experiences at the 2023 USA Powerlifting Raw Nationals, what's going on with the coefficients, and Mateo and Ylli bet their brows.Special Guest: Dr. Sophia Veiras, DPT, BRMhttps://www.instagram.com/soph.squats/Hosts:Mateo Manko @whitetoe_connoisseur Ylli Mujaj @brolicgramMark Doherty @mark_collaborativestrengthProducer(s):Producer Bestar Mujaj @beunz

In this episode we get into it with guest:Alexis Maxence LéveilléPhysical Therapist, M. Sc A., Cert MDT, Trainer & CEO of #HMOShttps://www.instagram.com/nobullshitphysio/?hl=enEnjoy the listen and let us know if you have any questions:https://www.instagram.com/thesquatplug/?hl=enHosts:Mateo Manko @whitetoe_connoisseur Ylli Mujaj @brolicgramMark Doherty @mark_collaborativestrengthProducer(s):Producer Bestar Mujaj @beunz

In this episode, we go over the aftermath of our previous discussion in Episode 10 and its impactful reverberations. Our focus then shifts to the intriguing trajectory of the USAPL against the backdrop of the evolving landscape surrounding the IPF. Special thanks to Sam for his insights.Furthermore, we tackle the untouched subject of fake natties within the realms of USAPL and IPF. On episode 12 we bring in a toxicology expert for an in-depth conversation in our upcoming episode next week. Hosts:Mateo Manko @whitetoe_connoisseur Ylli Mujaj @brolicgramMark Doherty @mark_collaborativestrengthProducer(s):Producer Bestar Mujaj @beunz

In this episode we delve into everything from Promissory Fraud to defrauding Suicide Awareness charities.A powerlifting investigative story.With Guest Co-Host: David Joplin (@hthnstrength)Hosts:Mateo Manko @whitetoe_connoisseur Ylli Mujaj @brolicgramMark Doherty @mark_collaborativestrengthProducer(s):Producer Bestar Mujaj @beunz

In our newest episode of "The Squat Plug" podcast, the host is excited to have a laid-back chat about all things related to powerlifting. The conversation won't get too serious or on topic – think of it as a friendly and casual banter instead!Just one of many.Hosts:Mateo Manko @whitetoe_connoisseur Ylli Mujaj @brolicgramMark Doherty @mark_collaborativestrengthProducer(s):Producer Bestar Mujaj @beunz

Back at it after a few weeks off.We hope that you've all been staying strong and hitting those PRs during our break.We have a lot to cover, including some exciting new products a few lighthearted jokes, and what we've been up to since our last episode.And a heads up! Our next episode we'll talk about regionals!Our teams will be there, we'll be there and we'll definitely see you there!So grab your headphones, chalk up those hands, and get ready for an episode filled with powerlifting talk, laughter, and some insightful discussion.Let's dive in an make gains together!!Hosts:Mateo Manko @whitetoe_connoisseur Ylli Mujaj @brolicgramMark Doherty @mark_collaborativestrengthProducer(s):Producer Bestar Mujaj @beunz

In this episode, we explore the role that coaching science plays in the sport of powerlifting. We also dive into the recent controversy surrounding USAPL Raw Nationals' reservation surge that saw many lifters unable to sign up for Raw Nats.Hosts:Mateo Manko @whitetoe_connoisseur Ylli Mujaj @brolicgramMark Doherty @mark_collaborativestrengthProducer(s):Producer Bestar Mujaj @beunz

The Squat Plug has been waiting on the Sheffield since its first announcement in 2019. COVID had caused the event from taking place up until it didn't.The Sheffield was exciting and we can wait until Sheffield 2024!The Squat Plug covers the Sheffield.Hosts:Mateo Manko @whitetoe_connoisseur Ylli Mujaj @brolicgramMark Doherty @mark_collaborativestrengthProducer(s):Producer Bestar Mujaj @beunz

We go over warm-ups, warmup strategies and experiences. We also go over the recent beef between the Flexx and Craftsmanship teams.Hosts:Mateo Manko @whitetoe_connoisseur Ylli Mujaj @brolicgramMark Doherty @mark_collaborativestrengthProducer(s):Producer Bestar Mujaj @beunz

In this episode we discuss the beef between the IPF and USAPL, provide clarification on the Arnolds and Pro Series, and talk about drug testing.Hosts:Mateo Manko @whitetoe_connoisseur Ylli Mujaj @brolicgramMark Doherty @mark_collaborativestrengthProducer(s):Producer Bestar Mujaj @beunz

In this episode we discuss the four divisions at the USAPL Arnolds Pro and go over forecasted winners and upsets.We also ramble a bit about untested and tested federations and some other miscellaneous tidbits.This episodes hosts:- Mateo Manko @white_toe_connoisseur69kg- Ylli Mujaj @brolicgram- Mark Doherty @mark_collaborativestrength- Dr. Sophia Veiras  @soph.squatsProducer:Bestar Mujaj (Behind the Scenes)Hosts:Mateo Manko @whitetoe_connoisseur Ylli Mujaj @brolicgramMark Doherty @mark_collaborativestrengthProducer(s):Producer Bestar Mujaj @beunz

The Squat Plug digs into Tapering, Peaking and a little about themselves.Hosts:Mateo Manko @whitetoe_connoisseur Ylli Mujaj @brolicgramMark Doherty @mark_collaborativestrengthProducer(s):Producer Bestar Mujaj @beunz