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 - Sponsorships Let us know what you think. Send us some questions. Enjoy. You can reach out to TSP if you send us a text through this link H…

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. …

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 Recap Ylli (@brolicgram) and Mateo (@whitetoe_connoisseur) made it to 2024 USA Powerlifting Rising Tide, in New Jersey. How'd it go? Well... They made …

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! You can reach out to TSP if you send us a text through this link Hosts: Mateo Manko @whitetoe_connoisseur Ylli Mujaj @brolicgram Mark Doherty @mark_collaborativestrength Producer: Produ…

In Episode 23 A debacle at the High School Powerlifting Nationals (special Squat Suit competition). We all learn the secret weapon: slingshots! Ylli opens up. You can reach out to TSP if you send us a text through this link Hosts: Mateo Manko @whitetoe_connoisseur Ylli Mujaj @brolicgram Mark Doherty @mark_collaborativestrength Producer: Producer Be…

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. You can reach out to TSP if you send us a text thro…

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 i…

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, BRM https://www.instagram.com/soph.squats/ You can reach out to TSP if you send us…

Welcome back to The Squat Plug. Season 2. What murda? You can reach out to TSP if you send us a text through this link Hosts: Mateo Manko @whitetoe_connoisseur Ylli Mujaj @brolicgram Mark Doherty @mark_collaborativestrength Producer: Producer Bestar Mujaj @beunzBy The Squat Plug

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). You ca…

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;dr Texas 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 harshly You c…

The Squat Plug takes it easy before the flight to the 2023 USAPL Powerlifting Olympia International and Raw Challenge event in Orlando Florida. You can reach out to TSP if you send us a text through this link Hosts: Mateo Manko @whitetoe_connoisseur Ylli Mujaj @brolicgram Mark Doherty @mark_collaborativestrength Producer: Producer Bestar Mujaj @beu…

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 evo…

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.D Hosts: Mateo Manko @whitetoe_connoisseur Ylli Mujaj @brolicgram Mark Doherty @mark_collaborativestrength Producer(s): …

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, BRM https://www.instagram.com/soph.squats/ You can reach out to TSP if you send us a text through this link Hosts: Mateo Manko @whitetoe_connoisse…

In this episode we get into it with guest: Alexis Maxence Léveillé Physical Therapist, M. Sc A., Cert MDT, Trainer & CEO of #HMOS https://www.instagram.com/nobullshitphysio/?hl=en Enjoy the listen and let us know if you have any questions: https://www.instagram.com/thesquatplug/?hl=en You can reach out to TSP if you send us a text through this link…

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 …

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) You can reach out to TSP if you send us a text through this link Hosts: Mateo Manko @whitetoe_connoisseur Ylli Mujaj @brolicgram Mark Doherty @mark_collaborati…

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. You can reach out to TSP if you send us a text through this link Hosts: Mateo Manko @whi…

🎧 Get ready to dive into the thrilling world of powerlifting in our latest episode! Recorded in Houston, Texas, right after the electrifying 2023 USA Powerlifting Southern Regionals by USAPL, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the sport. Join us as we welcome our guest host, Brandon Pitre, a rising star in the powerlifting commu…

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 …

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. You can reach out to TSP if you send us a text through this link Hosts: Mateo Manko @whitetoe_connoisseur Yll…

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. You can reach out to TSP if you send us a text through this link Hosts: Mateo Manko @whitetoe_co…

We go over warm-ups, warmup strategies and experiences. We also go over the recent beef between the Flexx and Craftsmanship teams. You can reach out to TSP if you send us a text through this link Hosts: Mateo Manko @whitetoe_connoisseur Ylli Mujaj @brolicgram Mark Doherty @mark_collaborativestrength Producer: 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. You can reach out to TSP if you send us a text through this link Hosts: Mateo Manko @whitetoe_connoisseur Ylli Mujaj @brolicgram Mark Doherty @mark_collaborativestrength Producer: Producer Bestar Mujaj @be…

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. Sop…

The Squat Plug digs into Tapering, Peaking and a little about themselves. You can reach out to TSP if you send us a text through this link Hosts: Mateo Manko @whitetoe_connoisseur Ylli Mujaj @brolicgram Mark Doherty @mark_collaborativestrength Producer: Producer Bestar Mujaj @beunzBy The Squat Plug

Wonder if it's possible to build a career being a camera know-it-all? (spoilers - you can) In this episode, photographers Ashton Staniszewski and David Patino talk with NYC based photographer, Anthony Festa, and how his love of the art, gear, and process has fueled his tenured career as a digital technician, Capture One trainer, and photographer. L…

In this episode, photographers Ashton Staniszewski and David Patino talk with Atlanta based content creator, Kavi Vu. Kavi, along with her friend and creative partner Phi Nguyen, are the minds behind “Wake Up Atlanta”, a web series created with the goal to increase civic engagement among Georgia’s Asian American and Pacific Islander community. What…

In this episode, photographers Ashton Staniszewski and David Patino talk with filmmaker Scott Hartman. Listen along as we: Dive into Scott‘s career path from on-air broadcast journalist to commercial filmmaker and Director of Production for a marketing and communications agency in Atlanta, Georgia. Chat through scaling a production from one-man ban…

In this episode, photographers Ashton Staniszewski and David Patino sit down with Kenny Morgan, Co-founder of Counsel Creative, a branding agency based in Chattanooga, TN. What happens when you place your personal purpose at the center of your creative business? Listen in as Kenny talks through his journey from working on the Warped Tour to leading…

In this episode, photographers Ashton Staniszewski and David Patino are in Waterbury, CT and chat with photographer (and David's first assistant), Justin Krompier. Listen in as we talk with Justin about his leap from a 9-5 job into the beginnings of his professional photography career. The photographers go around the table and share battle stories …

In this episode, photographers Ashton Staniszewski and David Patino dive into the process of engaging a photographer (or any creative for that matter) for your creative project. We walk through: What details you should include to get the most pertinent and complete information for your project when filling out a contact form. Why a phone consultati…

The photographers are in and back to bantering as we kick off 2020! In this episode, photographers Ashton Staniszewski and David Patino dive into the topic of set assisting — what it takes to be a good assistant and how you as a photographer can run a better production for your team when you’ve got the reins. We also chat best gear purchases of 201…

In this episode, photographers Ashton Staniszewski and David Patino talk with Ash Patino about her latest venture and how she's focusing on creating her own true crime content and more importantly using her video talents to help bring an unsolved murder case to a close. Like the podcast? Give it a like and share it with a friend! Connect with the O…

Do you retouch your images? Ever think to yourself that an image was pushed too far? Is there such a thing? In this episode, photographers Ashton Staniszewski and David Patino talk on the subject of photo manipulation, compositing, and the challenges creatives face when working with image retouching. Like the podcast? Give it a like and share it wi…

In this episode, photographers Ashton Staniszewski and David Patino talk about measuring performance and goal setting for creative businesses as we approach the end of the year. *Spoilers: There's a few different ways to go about it * Like the podcast? Give it a like and share it with a friend! Connect with the Office Hours Team on social! @davidap…

In this episode, photographers Ashton Staniszewski and David Patino chat about the making of art that stands out but more importantly, the "WHY" that goes into making those pieces. Like the podcast? Give it a like and share it with a friend! Connect with the Office Hours Team on social! @davidapatino @ashtonstan @katieolantukh Show Music: "East Sid…

Photographers Ashton Staniszewski and David Patino chat about taking control and setting the tone while working with others. A conversation inspired by this article: https://aphotoeditor.com/2019/10/01/the-daily-edit-forest-woodward/ Be sure to check out Forest's work at: https://www.forestwoodward.com/ As well as Heidi's other writings at: https:/…

The photographers, Ashton Staniszewski and David Patino welcome filmmaker, Antony Bui to the Office Hours Podcast studio! Antony is the founder of LaunchLight Films a production studio based in Atlanta focused on serving the tech startup sector. We chat about how a move to the other side of the world prompted the start of a career in content produc…

The Photographers are back from Summer break and talking gear (Yeah we know - it came as a shock to us too)! Listen along as David Patino and Ashton Staniszewski try (and fail) to talk through all the camera gear they've handled in 2019. Spoilers: It was more than we could fit into an hour. If you're all about the gear, a master of the overhead kit…

Photographers Ashton Staniszewski and David Patino take a stab at the delicate topic of pricing. Listen along as they discuss rate structure as it relates to location, market prices, and how the idea of "undercutting" is just an excuse. Like the podcast? Give it a like and share it with a friend! Connect with the Office Hours Team on social! @david…

Photographers Ashton Staniszewski and David Patino talk shop and answer YOUR questions! This time around we dig into personal projects — why you should do them, how to get started, and the ins-and-outs of navigating them long term. Shameless self promotion for personal projects from the photogaphers: David’s - "Beards: So Cool!" & "The Bedroom Proj…

Imagine working at one of the largest media companies in the world and having the job of building a positive culture of creativity and professional growth. Photographers David Patino and Ashton Staniszewski talk with Kyle Stapleton, Manager of Culture and Experience at Warner Media (AKA: Turner Studios) who does just that. Listen along as Kyle walk…

Photographers David Patino and Ashton Staniszewski talk with Photographer and professional human, Dan Almasy out of Atlanta, Georgia. That's right, another week, another "Dan" on the podcast! We chart Dan's creative journey from his start in fine art to a decade long stint in wedding photography and how a little motivation from a mentor became the …

Photographers David Patino and Ashton Staniszewski talk with Architecture Photographer, Dan Ryan of Roehner + Ryan, a photography duo, based in Scottsdale Arizona. Listen along as Dan charts his growth as a creative and how a bout with burnout led to a cross country move to build a business with a friend he met over the internet. Crazy right? We un…

Ever give up on an idea? How did you know it was time? Ever have the same line of thinking towards your career? This week the photographers David Patino and Ashton Staniszewski discuss "flawed ideas" and the challenges that come when something isn't clicking. Do you throw in the towel, pivot to something else or reinvent your art entirely? It's an …

Ever wonder what it would be like to leave your J.O.B. job for a full-time freelance venture? Then this episode is for you! In Episode 013, photographers Ashton Staniszewski and David Patino talk with special guest Will Moyer, graphic designer and co-founder of Zoe Works a design studio based in Denver Colorado. Will takes us through his journey an…

When was the last time you looked at a photo that wasn't on a screen? How about the last time you turned the pages on an art book? In Office Hours EP 12 David and Ashton talk about the simple pleasure that is printed photographic art - yup, prints people. We talk about that and boy is it wonderful. This one goes out to the proud artist inside us al…

How do you carve out time for personal projects or "you" art? What happens when that personal side hustles become a business? In Office Hours EP 11 David and Ashton chat with Mike Martin of Mike Martin Photography and General Manager of Marketing for Casio Music North America! Listen as Mike walks through his creative journey - starting as a music …