In this episode of the Shaw Strength Podcast, Brian sits down with pro strongman Nick Guardione to explore the wins that don’t come with trophies, the 50-pound PRs, the calmer mind under bright lights, and a training log filled with solutions instead of excuses. At the heart of the conversation is Nick’s journey, a story that starts with loss and adversity and ends with a clear, deliberate plan to keep climbing in the pro ranks.

We unpack Nick’s early obsessions, the moment life collapsed, and the friend who dragged him to the gym until it became a lifeline. From there, it’s a masterclass in process: how six months of focused newbie gains turned into a dominant novice debut, why “punching up” against harder fields accelerates growth, and how he studies every contest to find the exact fix for the next block. Nick shares the mental framework that keeps him steady—clearing distractions, checking equipment, and protecting the flow state—so he can go all-in when it counts.

We also dive into the spectacle that makes strongman special. Visual events, character, and tension bring new fans to feats of strength; innovation matters even when the internet nitpicks. We talk candidly about risk, backlash, and owning a vision for a sport that needs both heavy lifts and memorable moments. Along the way, you’ll hear why a “last place” deadlift can be a massive personal victory, how to measure progress without losing sight of the podium, and what Nick is building this offseason to push toward Worlds finals and consistent top-five finishes.

If you care about mindset, performance, and the craft of competing—this conversation is your playbook. Listen, share with a friend who needs the push, and leave a review so more lifters find it. Then tell us: what punch-up are you taking next?