

Lift Free And Diet Hard with Andrew Coates
Andrew Coates
The Lift Free and Diet Hard Podcast dives deep into the science and practice of living a strong, healthy, and intentional life. Hosted by Andrew Coates, the show brings together inspiring guests to share insights, stories, and practical advice that empower listeners to build confidence, make informed choices, and stay resilient in their fitness and wellness journeys. Every episode encourages thoughtful exploration of what it means to lift free, diet hard, and live fully.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 25, 2022 • 46min
EP 72 Tom Morrison: Mobility U
Mobility educator Tom Morrison guests to talk about all things mobility training. He shares his experience with a major low back injury from poor training and movement through his education in moving better to not only help him lift and perform but coach and educate others. We talk about the importance of the language we use around injury and pain, body awareness and why Tom feels this is essential, and the importance of training specific abilities as we age.

Mar 22, 2022 • 50min
EP 71 Patrick Umphrey: Imposter Syndrome
Hope you enjoy this discussion with Patrick Umphrey, a respected online and powerlifting coach. Patrick shares the power and value of his 20,000 plus member Facebook group Eat, Train, Progress, in how he's been able to help more people and have a fulfilling career. His group highlights a non-traditional type of social media following. Patrick also shares his thoughts on dealing with imposter syndrome. We also have some fun with the presence of predatory business coaches in our industry, and some nuanced thoughts on selling, dealing with objections, and whether you should niche your brand.

Mar 15, 2022 • 44min
EP 70 Chris Duffin: Knowing the Value of Your Time
Iconic powerlifter turned entrepreneur and engineer, Chris Duffin makes a rare podcast appearance to share stories. Chris explains how he chooses from the abundance of opportunities thrown his way. He shares the story of how Bearfoot shoes came to be along with his decision making matrix around alignment with his values and vision.

Mar 8, 2022 • 53min
EP 69 Dr. Justin Farnsworth: On The Front Line Of Fitness
Justin Farnsworth, Doctor of Physical Therapy is one of the most entertaining and forthright guests across this podcast's history. Justin shares why he chose to work within the fitness industry to make more of an impact than by staying in a clinical setting. We discuss the not always good relationship between physical therapy and the fitness industry, and how to get the most from it. Justin highlights his enthusiasm for working with other fitness professionals, and we discuss some important training concepts for working with older adults.

Mar 1, 2022 • 54min
EP 68 Dan John: Always A Place At The Table
Legendary strength coach and educator Dan John joins the podcast to share wisdom from his 40+ years as a coach. Dan talks about getting a wide variety of coaching experience early, of "Being so good they can't ignore you" a famous Steve Martin quote, in regards to cutting through social media novelty, and how he values problem solvers and thinkers, not problem finders and memorizers. Dan also shares some nuanced thoughts about his legacy and the importance of giving credit to people for their work.

Feb 22, 2022 • 53min
EP 67 Sam Forget: The Client Is The Priority
Online coach, podcaster, and writer Sam Forget joins to talk about why we need to pour everything into the client in front of us. Both to ensure great client outcomes but also to ensure great career success. Sam shares how you can use long form content to enhance your career. We talk about travelling and meeting people in the industry, supporting people on the same journey you're on, and how to interact with established industry leaders. Sam shares a lot of powerful wisdom that will make you better.

Feb 16, 2022 • 44min
EP 66 Jeff Tomko: Keep Writing
Jeff Tomko, contributing editor at Muscle and Fitness magazine joins the podcast to talk about being a successful writer in the fitness industry. Jeff shares the delicate balance between being professional and earning opportunities with putting yourself out there and asking. Jeff shares what he looks for in a writer he wants to work with. Jeff also shares how he stays passionate about his personal fitness efforts including his enjoyment of Jiu Jitsu. We also discuss how the industry has changed with the rise of social media and the shift away from print to more online content.

Feb 1, 2022 • 55min
EP 65 Chad Landers: Selling the Best One on One Training
Chad shares his 19 years of gym ownership and 29 years of personal training experience in a practical lesson on having a successful fitness career. We double down on authenticity, the relationship with the client, the client experience as a whole, and what you need to do to stay in the business you love. We talk about Chad's love of T-shirts and why its ok to wear them as a trainer, depending on your environment. Chad shares the importance of managing your finances early in your career and why owning his gym has been essential to his success.

Jan 25, 2022 • 45min
EP 64 Kenny Santucci: Build The Community First
Kenny Santucci guests to talk about the passion and perseverance of starting his 3rd gym in Manhattan. Kenny talks about why he prioritizes hosting continuing education and why he wants his gym to feel like the show Cheers, "where everyone knows your name". He describes why he started with his community the built the gym around it. We talk about considerations for having a lasting career in fitness instead of eventually going on to a "real job". Kenny also shares his passion behind starting a 3rd t-Shirt/apparel brand.

Jan 18, 2022 • 49min
EP 63 Derek Mendoza and Nick Lambe: Raise The Bar
Derek Mendoza and Nick Lambe are the hosts of the Raise The Bar conference, so be held Feb 4th - 6th in Orlando Florida. They've assembled an all-star speaking lineup and talk about their passion for and commitment to continuing education and supporting other fitness professionals with educational resources. Derek and Nick talk about why this went mattered, how they worked on it, plus advice for others seeking to grow in the educational space. They also talk about what to look for in a partner to work with on any project or business venture. Barring interference I'll be attending, so hope to see you there.


