

Dave Tate's Table Talk
elitefts.com
Are you sick of "fitness influencers," training fads, and crappy advice that barely applies inside the gym or on the field? Then sit down with elitefts CEO Dave Tate as he interviews the strongest & smartest minds across the strength sports community to talk real, hardcore training, business, life, and more. If you're looking for real, applicable information on all things training, join the crew.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 31, 2025 • 2h 43min
#379 The Rise of the "Home Gym Nerd": Collecting vs. Lifting | Massenomics
We welcome Tanner Baird and Tommy DeFea from Massenomics back to episode #379 of Dave Tate's Table Talk Podcast! Massenomics is known for its lighthearted approach to the strength and fitness industry. Their motto of "Lift Hard. Live Easy." summarizes how they like to take the lifting journey seriously but still have as much fun as possible. It was started by Tommy DeFea and Tanner Baird in Western North East South Dakota, and they have developed a diehard community of supporters and enthusiasts...online and otherwise. One of the things they are best known for is their podcast, where they chat about all things related to getting strong. It's not just about lifting weights but also about the culture and lifestyle around it. They sprinkle a lot of Midwest culture into everything they do. Tommy and Tanner have published 499 episodes of their podcast and interviewed hundreds of guests in the strength world. The Massenomics YouTube channel features a playlist of home gym tours to inspire you. They sell apparel and merchandise on their website (https://www.massenomics.com) related to the gym culture and have owned and operated a strength training gym for Ten years. Previous Episode: https://youtu.be/dv3tHC62GtE Website: https://www.massenomics.com Follow Massenomics: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/massenomics Gym Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/massenomicsgym Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Massenomics YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/massenomics Become an elitefts channel member for early access to Dave Tate's Table Talk podcast and other perks. @eliteftsofficial Support Dave Tate's Table Talk: FULL Crew Access: https://www.elitefts.com/join-the-crew Limited Edition Apparel -https://www.elitefts.com/shop/apparel... Programs & More -https://www.elitefts.com/shop/dave-ta... TYAO Application -https://www.elitefts.com/dave-tate-s-... Best-selling elitefts Products: Pro Resistance Training Bands: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/bands.html Specialty Barbells: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/bars-we... Wraps, Straps, Sleeves: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/power-g... Sponsors: Get an extra 10% OFF at elitefts (CODE: TABLE TALK): https://www.elitefts.com/ Get 10% OFF Your Next Marek Health Labs (CODE: TABLETALK): https://marekhealth.com/ Get a free 8-count Sample Pack of LMNT's most popular drink mix flavors: https://partners.drinklmnt.com/free-g... Get 10% OFF at Granite Nutrition (CODE TABLETALK): https://granitenutrition.com/?utm_sou... Support Massenomics! https://www.massenomics.com/ Save 20% on monthly, yearly, or lifetime MASS Research Review (CODE ELITEFTS20): https://massresearchreview.com/ Get 10% OFF RP Hypertrophy App (CODE: TABLE TALK) :https://go.rpstrength.com/hypertrophy...

Oct 28, 2025 • 2h 42min
#378 "Powerlifting Saved Me From Cocaine Addiction & Foster Care" | Eugene Bazemore
Eugene "Big Gene" Bazemore is a 32-year-old Army veteran-turned-super-heavyweight powerlifter who clawed his way from orphan shelters in Hampton Roads, VA to a 2,050-lb raw total and an XPC Arnold Worlds title in barely three seasons on the platform. After military service left a competitive void, Eugene discovered powerlifting through Westside vs The World, self-coached his first meet in 2022, and has been stacking 2K-plus totals—and life lessons—ever since. In this conversation with Dave, Gene breaks down the realities of untested lifting, balancing an elite training schedule with day-to-day life in Marietta, nutrition that fuels 800-lb deadlifts, and why the barbell became the lifeline that kept him out of prison. Connect with Gene: LinkInstagramhttps://www.instagram.com/not_big_gene/ Instagram Alt. IG (legacy handle)https://www.instagram.com/halfnattygene/ Instagram Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/eugene.bazemore.9 facebook.com Meet resultshttps://openpowerlifting.org/u/eugenebazemore Open Powerlifting Become an elitefts channel member for early access to Dave Tate's Table Talk podcast and other perks. @eliteftsofficial Support Dave Tate's Table Talk: FULL Crew Access: https://www.elitefts.com/join-the-crew Limited Edition Apparel -https://www.elitefts.com/shop/apparel... Programs & More -https://www.elitefts.com/shop/dave-ta... TYAO Application -https://www.elitefts.com/dave-tate-s-... Best-selling elitefts Products: Pro Resistance Training Bands: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/bands.html Specialty Barbells: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/bars-we... Wraps, Straps, Sleeves: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/power-g... Sponsors: Get an extra 10% OFF at elitefts (CODE: TABLE TALK): https://www.elitefts.com/ Get 10% OFF Your Next Marek Health Labs (CODE: TABLETALK): https://marekhealth.com/ Get a free 8-count Sample Pack of LMNT's most popular drink mix flavors: https://partners.drinklmnt.com/free-g... Get 10% OFF at Granite Nutrition (CODE TABLETALK): https://granitenutrition.com/?utm_sou... Support Massenomics! https://www.massenomics.com/ Save 20% on monthly, yearly, or lifetime MASS Research Review (CODE ELITEFTS20): https://massresearchreview.com/ Get 10% OFF RP Hypertrophy App (CODE: TABLE TALK) :https://go.rpstrength.com/hypertrophy...

Oct 24, 2025 • 2h 37min
#377 Hard Work Is The Only Hack: A Celebrity Coach's Guide To Real Results | Don Saladino
Don is best known for training actors like Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman, John Krasinski, Sebastian Stan, Blake Lively, and Emily Blunt for some of the most significant blockbuster roles of the last two decades. He opened his first gym, Drive 495, in New York City 2005. He later transitioned into building a global online fitness business, coaching tens of thousands of people worldwide through digital programs, live coaching, and speaking events. His work has been featured in Muscle & Fitness, Men's Health, Women's Health, People, Cosmopolitan, WebMD, and on The Today Show, Page Six TV, and E! News. He's a two-time Muscle & Fitness cover athlete and sits on the advisory board of Men's Health Magazine. Connect with Don Website: https://www.donsaladino.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/donsaladino YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DonSaladino Podcast: Stronger with Don Saladino (available on Amazon Music, Spotify, Apple Podcasts) Newsletter: Signup at DonSaladino.com for training programs & updates Become an elitefts Channel Member Get early access to Dave Tate's Table Talk Podcast and other exclusive perks. @eliteftsofficial Support Dave Tate's Table Talk FULL Crew Access: https://www.elitefts.com/join-the-crew Limited Edition Apparel: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/apparel/limited-edition.html Programs & More: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/dave-tate-s-table-talk-crew.html TYAO Application: https://www.elitefts.com/dave-tate-s-tyao-application Best-Selling elitefts Products Pro Resistance Training Bands: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/bands.html Specialty Barbells: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/bars-weights/specialty-bars.html Wraps, Straps, Sleeves: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/power-gear.html Sponsors Get an extra 10% OFF at elitefts (CODE: TABLE TALK): https://www.elitefts.com/ Get 10% OFF Marek Health Labs (CODE: TABLETALK): https://marekhealth.com/ Get a free 8-count Sample Pack of LMNT: https://partners.drinklmnt.com/free-g Get 10% OFF Granite Nutrition (CODE: TABLETALK): https://granitenutrition.com/ Support Massenomics: https://www.massenomics.com/ Save 20% on MASS Research Review (CODE: ELITEFTS20): https://massresearchreview.com/ Get 10% OFF RP Hypertrophy App (CODE: TABLE TALK): https://go.rpstrength.com/hypertrophy

20 snips
Oct 23, 2025 • 2h 2min
#376 "Racking the Bar," The Future of Coaching, and 40 Years of Strength Wisdom | Dave Tate
In a candid conversation, Dave Tate, founder of elitefts and a renowned strength coach with four decades of experience, shares his raw insights on the evolution of the fitness industry. He warns that AI is poised to transform coaching, emphasizing the need for real accountability and communication skills among coaches. Dave reflects on the importance of adapting coaching methods across generations and discusses the critical balance between passion and profit. He also dives into how setbacks can fuel personal growth and why mastering core skills beats superficial knowledge.

Oct 21, 2025 • 2h 1min
#375 The Strongman Doc: Why Modern Chiropractic Is Failing Athletes | Dr. Todd McDougle
Dr. Todd A. McDougle, BS, DC, FICA, is a 25+ year veteran of the chiropractic world and the man behind the McDougle Chiropractic Methods (MCM)—a technique built to keep strength athletes strong, not "sprung." From backstage at World's Strongest Man, to consulting for UCLA Gymnastics, USC Swimming, and the LA Dodgers, Todd has spent decades treating the world's top performers when it matters most—under the bar, mid-contest, and in crisis mode. He's not just a doctor—he's a backstage mechanic for the broken, the beat up, and the best of the best. As CEO of IN Chiropractic & Wellness, Inc., founder of Indiana Scoliosis Specialists, and Chairman of the ICA Council on Fitness & Sports Health Science, Dr. McDougle is building the future of chiropractic from the platform up—with LIVE-FIRE labs, mentorship, and a war on cookie-cutter care. Follow Dr. McDougle Instagram: @dr.mcdougle_strongmandoc Website: www.DrMcDougle.com Podcast appearances & teaching: inchiropractic.com Become an elitefts Channel Member Get early access to Dave Tate's Table Talk Podcast and other exclusive perks. @eliteftsofficial Support Dave Tate's Table Talk FULL Crew Access: https://www.elitefts.com/join-the-crew Limited Edition Apparel: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/apparel/limited-edition.html Programs & More: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/dave-tate-s-table-talk-crew.html TYAO Application: https://www.elitefts.com/dave-tate-s-tyao-application Best-Selling elitefts Products Pro Resistance Training Bands: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/bands.html Specialty Barbells: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/bars-weights/specialty-bars.html Wraps, Straps, Sleeves: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/power-gear.html Sponsors Get an extra 10% OFF at elitefts (CODE: TABLE TALK): https://www.elitefts.com/ Get 10% OFF Marek Health Labs (CODE: TABLETALK): https://marekhealth.com/ Get a free 8-count Sample Pack of LMNT: https://partners.drinklmnt.com/free-g Get 10% OFF Granite Nutrition (CODE: TABLETALK): https://granitenutrition.com/ Support Massenomics: https://www.massenomics.com/ Save 20% on MASS Research Review (CODE: ELITEFTS20): https://massresearchreview.com/ Get 10% OFF RP Hypertrophy App (CODE: TABLE TALK): https://go.rpstrength.com/hypertrophy

Oct 14, 2025 • 2h 46min
#374 Your RPE is a LIE. Here's How to Find Your TRUE Max Effort | Ben Pauli
We welcome Ben Pauli to this episode of Dave Tate's Table Talk Podcast! As the Athletic Director of Rochester Performance Gym (RPG), co-founder of Coaching Revolution, and owner of Michigan BarBenders Barbell, Ben brings a unique blend of Conjugate methodology and data-driven auto-regulation to the strength world. A seasoned multi-ply powerlifter with best lifts of 1,107 lb squat, 810 lb bench, and 810 lb deadlift, his "strain as a skill" philosophy reflects a mindset built on grit, adaptability, and precision. From first-time lifters to UFC contenders, Ben's ability to develop resilient, high-performing athletes has cemented his reputation as one of the most respected coaches in modern strength training. CONNECT WITH BEN - Instagram: @coach_p_strength - Coaching Revolution: coaching-revolution.com - Michigan BarBenders: michiganbarbenders.com - Rochester Performance Gym: rpg-strength.com Become an elitefts channel member for early access to Dave Tate's Table Talk podcast and other perks. ➡️@eliteftsofficial Support Dave Tate's Table Talk: FULL Crew Access - https://www.elitefts.com/join-the-crew Limited Edition Apparel - https://www.elitefts.com/shop/apparel/limited-edition.html Programs & More - https://www.elitefts.com/shop/dave-tate-s-table-talk-crew.html TYAO Application - https://www.elitefts.com/dave-tate-s-tyao-application Best-selling elitefts Products: Pro Resistance Training Bands: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/bands.html Specialty Barbells: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/bars-weights/specialty-bars.html Wraps, Straps, Sleeves: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/power-gear.html Sponsors: Get an extra 10% OFF at elitefts (CODE: TABLE TALK): https://www.elitefts.com/ Get 10% OFF Your Next Marek Health Labs (CODE: TABLETALK): https://marekhealth.com/ Get a free 8-count Sample Pack of LMNT's most popular drink mix flavors: https://partners.drinklmnt.com/free-g... Get 10% OFF at Granite Nutrition (CODE TABLETALK): https://granitenutrition.com/?utm_sou... Support Massenomics! https://www.massenomics.com/ Save 20% on monthly, yearly, or lifetime MASS Research Review (CODE ELITEFTS20): https://massresearchreview.com/ Get 10% OFF RP Hypertrophy App (CODE: TABLE TALK): https://go.rpstrength.com/hypertrophy/

Oct 10, 2025 • 2h 49min
#373 Peaking is a F*cking Waste of Time" - A World-Class Coach Explains | Thomas Lilley
We welcome Thomas Lilley to this episode of Dave Tate's Table Talk Podcast! Thomas is a 36-year-old Australian powerlifting coach, gym owner, and federation president who founded Zero Weakness, a powerhouse strength brand with 11 gyms across Australia, New Zealand, and the UK. He leads three major federations—APL, NZPU, and UKPU—with APL now Australia's largest. Known for coaching lifters to multiple all-time world records, including the #1 total of 1200kg (wraps) and highest DOTs score ever (688.33), Thomas also holds the #1 equipped total and bench in Australia. Through ZeroW's expansion into franchising, education, and equipment, and his work on the Peak Speak and ZeroW Podcasts, Thomas continues to shape global powerlifting culture. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tombro7/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/ptcgoldcoast Zero W: https://www.zerowequipment.com/ Become an elitefts channel member for early access to Dave Tate's Table Talk podcast and other perks. ➡️@eliteftsofficial Support Dave Tate's Table Talk: FULL Crew Access - https://www.elitefts.com/join-the-crew Limited Edition Apparel - https://www.elitefts.com/shop/apparel/limited-edition.html Programs & More - https://www.elitefts.com/shop/dave-tate-s-table-talk-crew.html TYAO Application - https://www.elitefts.com/dave-tate-s-tyao-application Best-selling elitefts Products: Pro Resistance Training Bands: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/bands.html Specialty Barbells: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/bars-weights/specialty-bars.html Wraps, Straps, Sleeves: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/power-gear.html Sponsors: Get an extra 10% OFF at elitefts (CODE: TABLE TALK): https://www.elitefts.com/ Get 10% OFF Your Next Marek Health Labs (CODE: TABLETALK): https://marekhealth.com/ Get a free 8-count Sample Pack of LMNT's most popular drink mix flavors: https://partners.drinklmnt.com/free-g... Get 10% OFF at Granite Nutrition (CODE TABLETALK): https://granitenutrition.com/?utm_sou... Support Massenomics! https://www.massenomics.com/ Save 20% on monthly, yearly, or lifetime MASS Research Review (CODE ELITEFTS20): https://massresearchreview.com/ Get 10% OFF RP Hypertrophy App (CODE: TABLE TALK) :https://go.rpstrength.com/hypertrophy...

Oct 7, 2025 • 2h 47min
#372 NFL Coach: Stop Training Athletes Like Powerlifters | Cameron Josse
In 2020, Cameron transitioned into the collegiate ranks, serving as Associate Director of Football Performance at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte before moving to Indiana University as an Athletic Performance Coach for football, where he remained through 2023. From there, he joined Auburn University as an Assistant Strength & Conditioning Coach, working with one of the most competitive programs in the SEC. Today, Cameron continues that trajectory at the highest level of the game as an Assistant Strength & Conditioning Coach for the Detroit Lions. A former defensive back at the University of Rhode Island, Cameron holds a bachelor's degree in kinesiology, a master's in exercise science from William Paterson University, and is currently a PhD candidate at Jean Monnet University in Saint-Etienne, France. His academic pursuits, paired with years of practical experience, shape a coaching philosophy that balances evidence-based performance science with the demands of real-world competition. Cameron's ability to adapt programming across sports and athlete needs has made him a trusted resource in the world of strength and conditioning. Whether building a foundation for young athletes or optimizing peak performance for professionals on game day, his long-term approach centers on developing strength, speed, resilience, and durability that lasts throughout an athlete's career. THANK YOU TO THIS EPISODE'S SPONSORS - Support Massenomics! https://www.massenomics.com/ - Use the discount code ELITEFTS20 to save 20% on your next monthly, yearly, or lifetime - MASS Research Review membership plan. The discount lasts FOREVER! https://massresearchreview.com/

Sep 30, 2025 • 2h 20min
#371 Training The Rock & Zac Efron: A Former Marine on Building Superheroes | Aaron Williamson
Aaron Williamson, a Marine veteran and celebrity trainer, shares his inspiring journey from the military to training Hollywood stars like Dwayne Johnson and Zac Efron. He discusses how fitness aided his recovery from PTSD and homelessness, emphasizing the importance of mindset over quick fixes. Aaron highlights adapting military training for actors, the challenges of rapid transformations, and the evolving landscape of fitness during the pandemic. With a focus on longevity and purpose, he illustrates fitness as a pathway to resilience and community.

Sep 23, 2025 • 2h 1min
#370 Why a World's Strongest Man Competitor Quit to Make Movies | Josh Thigpen
We welcome Josh Thigpen to this episode of Dave Tate's Table Talk Podcast! Josh Thigpen is a professional strongman from Houston, Texas, whose incredible 20-year career has taken him to over 60 contests in 30 countries. A four-time World's Strongest Man competitor, Josh has earned 12 international podium finishes, held multiple world records, and achieved the legendary feat of holding the most weight ever by a human—600 pounds in each hand. At his peak, standing 6'5" and weighing 320 pounds, Josh was a dominant force in the sport. Today, he maintains a powerful 275-pound frame while continuing to inspire athletes worldwide. Beyond the competition platform, Josh has made a major impact as an author, penning 13 bestselling eBooks that have become essential resources for strength athletes. His works include The Cube Method for Strongman, The Grip Guide, Training Camp, The Complete Guide to Strongman, and Adventures of a Pro Strongman. These guides blend his deep competitive experience with practical, no-nonsense training strategies, making them a staple for anyone serious about strongman or strength training. Since transitioning from full-time competition, Josh has shifted his creative energy to the film industry. He is the creator, writer, actor, director, and producer of the indie fantasy web series Sword of Alentius—a passion project that merges epic storytelling with his larger-than-life presence. In addition to his own productions, Josh is acting in other film projects, further showcasing his versatility and creative drive. https://www.instagram.com/josh_thigpen/ THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS Get 10% OFF Your Next Marek Health Labs (CODE: TABLETALK): https://marekhealth.com/ Get a free 8-count Sample Pack of LMNT's most popular drink mix flavors with any purchase: https://partners.drinklmnt.com/free-gift-with-purchase?utm_campaign=agwp&am… Save Up to 20% at Sleepme (CODE: TABLE TALK): https://sleep.me/tabletalk Get 10% OFF RP Hypertrophy App (CODE: TABLE TALK) :https://go.rpstrength.com/hypertrophy-app/ Get 10% OFF at elitefts (CODE: TABLE TALK): https://www.elitefts.com/ Get 10% OFF at Granite Nutrition (CODE TABLETALK): https://granitenutrition.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=audio&utm_campaign=Dave_Tate Support Massenomics! https://www.massenomics.com/ MASS Research Review - Use the discount code ELITEFTS20 to save 20% on your next monthly, yearly, or lifetime MASS Research Review membership plan. The discount lasts FOREVER! https://massresearchreview.com/ SUPPORT THE SHOW All profits from elitefts Limited Edition Apparel, Table Talk Coffee, and Team elitefts Workouts, Programs, and Training eBooks support Dave Tate's Table Talk Podcast. elitefts Shop: https://www.elitefts.com/ elitefts IG: https://www.instagram.com/elitefts/ elitefts Limited Edition Apparel: https://www.elitefts.com/shop/apparel/limited-edition.html


