Crush and Climb

·S2 E1

REJECTED NOW UNSTOPPABLE with Lauren Powers

August 6
1h 1m

Episode Description

What happens when your entire world collapses and you're forced to pivot?

On this episode of Crush & Climb, host Jason McClain sits down with Lauren Powers — 10-time world heavyweight bodybuilding champion, former firefighter, SAG actor, author, and faith-driven mentor.

Lauren opens up about being pushed out of the fire service through gender discrimination, how that painful chapter became the launchpad for a bodybuilding career that took her to the Arnold Classic and beyond, and the pivotal moment she chose faith over fear.

Together, Jason and Lauren dig into self-talk, gratitude routines, and the "5 daily wins" that can pull anyone out of feeling stuck. Plus, Lauren shares stories from working with stars like J.Lo, Lady Gaga, and Justin Bieber, and explains why she considers vulnerability her ultimate superpower.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re running in place, this conversation is your reminder: your story isn’t over, and your setbacks might just be setting you up for something bigger.

Key Highlights & Topics Covered:

  • Pivoting After Pain: Turning gender discrimination in the fire service into a world-class bodybuilding career.

  • Faith Over Fear: Navigating life transitions when your foundation is shaken.

  • The "5 Daily Wins": Actionable habits to clear mental clutter and build daily momentum.

  • Hollywood Moments: Working on set with Jennifer Lopez, Lady Gaga, and Justin Bieber.

  • Vulnerability as Power: Why authenticity is the ultimate tool for strength and resilience.

Resources & Links:

Chapters

  • (00:00:00) - Lauren Born Girl
  • (00:03:00) - Harley Davidson on His Life
  • (00:05:25) - Climbing Out Of A Box
  • (00:06:18) - Blended 32 years clean
  • (00:08:12) - Lauren Powers: Tell Me Your Story
  • (00:10:30) - What It's Really Like To Be A Firefighter
  • (00:13:43) - The Secret to Becoming A Fitness Star
  • (00:17:27) - Former Heavyweight Bodybuilding Champion on Becoming Successful
  • (00:21:41) - Deaf People: Unleashing Your Inner Champion
  • (00:26:08) - Janet Jackson on Self-Edition
  • (00:29:59) - Janet Jackson on Self-Belief
  • (00:32:56) - How to Win Your First Win
  • (00:36:52) - Richie on Setting Himself Up for Success
  • (00:39:02) - I Literally Blacked Out On The Stage
  • (00:40:24) - 5 Things to Gratitude For Yourself
  • (00:43:22) - How to Become Happier With Less Stress
  • (00:45:00) - Getting Your Community in Order
  • (00:49:26) - Lauren Powers on Finding Her Path
  • (00:50:33) - Noah Khan on Running In Place
  • (00:54:31) - Obama on His Secret to Sobriety
  • (00:57:19) - The Real Story Of Working With Celebrities
  • (00:59:57) - Selma's message on Hollywood
  • (01:00:36) - Climbing Up That Hill
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