Liam O'Toole - Podcast Details

Shows

Wicklow Strength and FitnessTwo Steps Forward, One Step Back: The Journey to ProgressTakeaways: Progress is rarely linear; expect to take two steps forward and one step back, and that’s absolutely normal. Measuring success by the gap can lead to frustration; focusing on the gain helps you appreciate your journey instead. Fit world problems are all about comparing yourself to an ideal; remember that your current achievements might be someone else's goals. Celebrate your milestones and progress by looking back at how far you've come rather than fixating on where you want to be. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Gap-Gain-Achievers-Happiness-Confidence/dp/1401964362The Gap & The Gain 2025-07-2517 min

Wicklow Strength and FitnessTraining Secrets: Balancing Strength, Endurance, and Fun!Today, we're diving into the nitty-gritty of how we've leveled up our training game at Wicklow Strength and Fitness. I’m talking about those sweet, sweet results that have our members getting fitter, faster, and more efficient than ever before. We’ll stroll down memory lane to 2013, when I first stumbled into a CrossFit gym and had my world flipped upside down like a bad pancake. I’ll share my journey from awkward newbie to coach, and how we’ve shifted our approach to training over the years. Spoiler alert: it involves a whole lot of learning from mistakes, some sol...2025-07-2123 min

The 42 GAA WeeklyTipperary overcome Cork to win the 2025 All-Ireland Hurling ChampionshipFintan O’Toole and Declan Bogue come to us from Croke Park, where they watched Tipperary being crowned the 2025 All-Ireland Senior Hurling champions.The lads try to make sense of how the Premier County turned a six-point halftime deficit into a 15-point victory, and how Cork managed to add just two points in the second period.Liam Cahill adds another championship to his collection of underage triumphs with Tipperary, while Pat Ryan and the Rebels are left licking their wounds from another heartbreaking defeat in the capital. Hosted on Acast. See ac...2025-07-2015 min

Wicklow Strength and FitnessThe Heartbeat of Challenge: Fear vs ExcitementLet’s dive right into it! Today, we’re tackling the wild ride of emotions that come with fitness—specifically, the fine line between fear and excitement. Did you know that your body can’t actually tell the difference between the two? Yup, those sweaty palms and racing heart? They could mean you’re about to crush a workout or you’re about to face your biggest nightmare! So, in this episode, we’re dishing out some nifty tools to help you flip that nervous energy into pure adrenaline. We’ll even chat about some real-life stories, like how your everyday gy...2025-07-1021 min

The Grey Space with Brenden NewtonLiam O'Toole - a lifelong dreamAmazing chat with this true boog lord.1km paddles in pre-sunrise baitballs, 14 years married & wrestling his lifelong SIC dream at the age of 44.So sick.Tile image: Paul Humber 2025-07-0224 min $Shat the Movies: 80\'s & 90\'s Best Film Review$ Shat the Movies: 80's & 90's Best Film ReviewHigh Spirits (1988)Check into Castle Plunkett for a supernatural comedy that mashes together horny ghosts, Irish folklore, and peak ‘80s weirdness: High Spirits! Commissioned by Sydney in Texas—lover of Beetlejuice, Elvira, and men of questionable taste—this forgotten flick from 1988 boasts an absurdly stacked cast: Steve Guttenberg, Daryl Hannah, Beverly D’Angelo, Peter O’Toole, Jennifer Tilly, and a young Liam Neeson playing a ghostly creep. Gene and Big D dive into a movie that’s half Scooby-Doo, half ghost-sex fever dream. They explore the film’s jarring tonal shifts, from slapstick hauntings to surprisingly dark (and wet) ghost lore, co...2025-06-261h 04

Wicklow Strength and FitnessBuilding Strength: The Key to Aging Gracefully and StrongStrength training isn’t just for the gym bros or those flexing in front of mirrors; it’s a lifelong buddy that helps keep us strong and spry from our 20s all the way into our golden years! Today, I’m diving deep into why picking up those weights—or even just some resistance bands—throughout life is crucial for maintaining our health and independence. We’re chatting about how our training needs shift as we age, so whether you’re throwing around barbells in your youth or taking it easy with lighter weights later, there’s something for everyone. I’ll s...2025-06-0118 min

Wicklow Strength and FitnessTracking Your Way to Gains: Apps, Tips, and a Little Tough LoveTakeaways: Nutrition apps can be a game changer for tracking intake, but approach them wisely. Before diving into macros, focus on sleep, hydration, and stress management first. Tracking nutrition should empower you, not restrict you—it's about adding, not subtracting. Building healthy habits takes time; don’t let the app dictate your relationship with food. Being human means some days are better than others; focus on progress, not perfection. Using tracking apps effectively is all about gaining awareness and making informed choices. Companies mentioned in this episode: MyFitnessPal Chronometer Whoop 2025-05-2519 min

Wicklow Strength and FitnessThe Secret Sauce to Endurance: Fuel, Train, Recover!Endurance is the star of the show today, folks! We’re diving into how building your stamina can seriously amp up your entire fitness game, whether you're training for a marathon or just trying to keep up with the kids. I chat about the rise of endurance events among our gym buddies, from 10Ks to Hyrox competitions, and how mastering this aspect of fitness is key for everyone, not just the marathon maniacs. Plus, we’ll explore the vital connection between your body and brain when it comes to pushing through those tough moments in a workout—because, let’s be rea...2025-05-1816 min

Wicklow Strength and FitnessLifting More Than Weights: Conor's Inspiring Fitness JourneyLiam O'Toole is back with an exciting episode featuring our guest Conor Byrne, who’s not just any guest but a rising star in the fitness world! Conor shares his fascinating journey from a fresh-faced 16-year-old stepping into the gym to now being the general manager, and let me tell you, it’s been a wild ride! We dive into how he transitioned from football to CrossFit, inspired by the likes of Mat Fraser and some epic documentaries. Conor talks about the challenges he faced, the growth he’s experienced, and how he’s now coaching everyone from newbies to seaso...2025-05-1240 min

Wicklow Strength and FitnessThe Importance of Varying Your Fitness ProgramsLiam O'Toole dives into the world of fitness variety, and let me tell you, it’s not just about looking good in those gym selfies. We all know the high of starting a new workout routine—everything feels fresh, exciting, and you’re practically a superhero. But then, just like that last slice of pizza, things can get stale. Liam spills the beans on why keeping things spicy in your workouts is crucial. He emphasizes that your body adapts faster than you can say 'sweaty gym towel,' and if you keep doing the same old, same old, your gains...2025-05-0616 min

Wicklow Strength and FitnessCreatine for your muscles and brainWe're diving deep into the world of creatine this week, and trust me, it's not just a muscle-building superhero; it’s got some brain-boosting powers too! I mean, who knew that this supplement could help us not only lift heavier but also think sharper? We're breaking down how creatine works, why it’s a go-to for athletes, and the latest buzz about its cognitive benefits. You’ll learn how it can help with everything from muscle recovery to keeping your brain in tip-top shape as we age. So whether you’re smashing weights or tackling a tough work project, creatine...2025-04-2816 min

Wicklow Strength and FitnessHealth Span vs. Lifespan: The Real Fitness Game ChangerLiam's diving deep into the juicy stuff today, chatting about the difference between lifespan and health span—basically, how long we live versus how well we live. Spoiler alert: just because we’re living longer doesn’t mean we’re living better, and that’s where strength training struts in like a superhero. He’s got some solid gold insights on how to keep our bodies functioning like well-oiled machines as we age, from building muscle mass to boosting our cardiovascular fitness. Plus, he drops some wisdom on how to explain your gym obsession to the naysayers in your life—because...2025-04-2017 min $Harpin\' On Rugby$ Harpin' On Rugby428 : Leinster v Ulster previewPreview also available on our YouTube channelLEINSTER : 15. Jamie Osborne 14. Tommy O’Brien 13. Garry Ringrose 12. Robbie Henshaw 11. Jimmy O’Brien 10. Ciarán Frawley 9. Luke McGrath (c)1. Jack Boyle 2. Gus McCarthy 3. Thomas Clarkson 4. Joe McCarthy 5. Diarmuid Mangan 6. Alex Soroka 7. Scott Penny 8. James Culhane16. Dan Sheehan 17. Andrew Porter 18. Tadhg Furlong 19. RG Snyman 20. Max Deegan 21. Fintan Gunne 22. Sam Prendergast 23. Liam TurnerULSTER : 15. Michael Lowry 14. Zac Ward 13. Jude Postlethwaite 12. Stuart McCloskey 11. Jacob Stockdale 10. Jack Murphy 9. Nathan Doak1. Andrew Warwick 2. Rob Herring 3. Tom O’Toole 4. Alan O’Connor (c) 5. Cor...2025-04-1812 min

Wicklow Strength and FitnessFrom Triathlons to Coaching Teenagers to be the best versions of themselves!Liam O'Toole sits down with Katie Verbruggen, the new head of youth programs at Wicklow Strength and Fitness, to dive into the exciting world of fitness for teens. We kick things off by reminiscing about Katie's journey from sports enthusiast to fitness professional, and how she’s found her way back to the gym after a brief hiatus. This episode is all about bridging the gap for young people in fitness, highlighting the importance of not just strength training, but also the confidence and community that comes with it. Katie shares her passion for coaching kids and the innovative me...2025-04-0634 min

Wicklow Strength and FitnessThe Snowball Effect of Thoughts: How to Stop the Spiral!Today, we’re diving headfirst into the juicy world of thoughts—specifically, the compounding effects of negative and positive thinking. Trust me, it may sound like a small topic, but it’s got a massive impact on our everyday lives. Like, ever find yourself spiraling into self-doubt or thinking you’re just not good enough? Well, spoiler alert: those thoughts can turn into a snowball effect that shapes your reality. But fear not! We’re also talking about flipping that script with some uplifting vibes, because let’s be real, believing you’re improving every day can totally transform your outlook a...2025-03-3017 min

Wicklow Strength and FitnessDon't Neglect Your Fiber: The Secret Sauce to Fitness Success!Alright, folks! Today we're diving into the unsung hero of nutrition: fiber! Yup, you heard me right—fiber, that thing we often forget while we’re busy chugging protein shakes and piling on the meat. But let me tell you, if you're hitting the gym and ramping up that protein intake, fiber is your new best friend. Not only does it keep things moving smoothly in your digestive system (because no one likes feeling bloated), but it also helps you feel fuller for longer, controls blood sugar, and even boosts nutrient absorption. So, if you've been neglecting those veggies and...2025-03-2410 min

Wicklow Strength and FitnessCrossFit Inc. for Sale: What Does This Mean for Us?Liam O'Toole dives into the intriguing world of CrossFit this week, and trust me, it’s not your typical CrossFit chat! We’re peeling back the layers on CrossFit, Inc. and its current situation, especially with the news that the company is up for sale again. It’s like a reality show, but with more sweat and less drama! We’ll explore how this sale could impact fitness enthusiasts and gym owners alike, given that many affiliates are feeling the crunch and some are even disaffiliating from the brand. With a sprinkle of personal anecdotes, Liam shares his journey with Cro...2025-03-1721 min

Wicklow Strength and FitnessLeveling Up: Going beyond the Comfort ZoneToday, we're diving into the wild world of tackling challenges and how facing adversity can be your secret weapon for setting new goals. As I watched folks crush it during the CrossFit Open, it hit me just how pivotal those tough moments are for sparking motivation. You see, when athletes like Sophie and Ciara hit a wall during their workouts, it doesn’t just stop them in their tracks—it fuels their fire to improve, especially when it comes to mastering those pesky pull-ups! We all have our comfy little routines and maybe even some skills we’d rather avoid...2025-03-1014 min

Wicklow Strength and FitnessRest Up, Strength Up?Today, we're diving deep into the oh-so-exciting world of rest and recovery—yeah, I know, not exactly a thriller, but trust me, it’s crucial! If you're like most of us, you’ve probably fallen into the classic trap of thinking that more workouts equal more gains. Spoiler alert: it’s not about how much you do; it’s about how well you recover. We’ll chat about why rest isn’t just a lazy day on the couch, but a vital part of your fitness journey. From understanding how quality sleep impacts muscle repair to the ins and outs of active...2025-03-0222 min

Wicklow Strength and FitnessDon't Blink: Life Moves Fast and Goals do too!Today, we’re diving into the idea that while goals are important, they shouldn’t be the only focus of our fitness journey. Life moves pretty fast, and if we don’t take a moment to enjoy the process, we might just miss the joy that comes with it. We chat about how getting too fixated on outcomes can rob us of appreciating the little victories and connections we make along the way. Like, have you ever been so focused on hitting a personal record that you forgot to enjoy the camaraderie of training with friends? It’s all about al...2025-02-2316 min

Wicklow Strength and FitnessProtein Beyond MuscleWho knew protein could be such a superstar? In this episode, Liam O'Toole takes us on a journey through the world of protein, busting myths and sharing insights that will make you rethink your plate. Kicking things off with a dash of humour, Liam reflects on his early days of protein supplementation and the raised eyebrows it caused at home. But fear not! He reassures us that protein isn’t just for the muscle-bound—it’s a vital nutrient for every body out there. As we transition from the holiday snacks to our fitness resolutions, understanding the role of protei...2025-02-1712 min

Wicklow Strength and FitnessI'll know how successful we were when you leaveSuccess in fitness isn’t about quick fixes or flashy before-and-after photos; it’s all about building lasting habits that stick around for the long haul. Liam O'Toole dives into the nitty-gritty of what true success looks like for him as a coach, and spoiler alert: it’s not measured in six-week challenges or weight loss gimmicks. Instead, he emphasizes the importance of sustainable change and how real triumph happens when clients can walk away empowered and educated, ready to tackle their fitness journeys on their own. He shares some personal stories about clients who’ve left but continued their fi...2025-02-0918 min

Wicklow Strength and FitnessFrom 80 to 250: How Our Gym Family Grew!We're diving into the heart of community in fitness today, and let me tell you, it’s more than just a catchy tagline. We just hit a whopping 250 active clients at our gym, which is a huge milestone—and trust me, that number is more than just a stat; it’s a testament to the vibrant relationships we’re building here. I reminisce about the time when we barely scraped together 80 members, and now? Now we've got a whole crew of amazing people who not only lift weights but also lift each other up. We chat about how having a solid...2025-02-0213 min

Wicklow Strength and FitnessNavigating Uncertainty: Focus on What You Can ControlThe podcast dives into the critical theme of controlling what we can in an increasingly overwhelming world. Liam O'Toole, speaking from Stockholm, reflects on his experiences at a coaches congress event while addressing the pervasive influence of external factors on our mental well-being. He highlights the importance of recognizing that while we cannot control global events, economic fluctuations, or political decisions, we can control our responses to these events. The conversation takes a turn towards the impact of doom scrolling and negative news consumption on our daily choices, especially regarding health and fitness. Liam provides practical strategies for listeners...2025-01-2623 min

Wicklow Strength and FitnessFrom Blood Sugar Spikes to Sustainable Energy: A Deep Dive into InsulinToday, we're diving deep into the world of insulin and its vital role in regulating our blood sugar levels, particularly in relation to our food choices. Liam O'Toole discusses how the type and quality of carbohydrates we consume can lead to significant spikes in insulin, impacting our energy levels and overall health. He emphasises the importance of balanced meals that include a mix of proteins, slow-digesting carbohydrates, and plenty of vegetables to maintain stable insulin levels. With humour and insight, Liam shares practical tips for smarter eating habits that can help mitigate the risks of insulin resistance and improve...2025-01-1916 min

Wicklow Strength and FitnessWhy Ozempic Isn’t the EnemyThis episode dives into the controversial topic of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and their role in fitness and health. Host Liam O'Toole shares his perspective on these treatments, emphasizing that while they can serve as a valuable tool for those struggling with obesity and type 2 diabetes, they should not be seen as a magic solution. He discusses the importance of maintaining a consistent fitness routine and a balanced diet, highlighting that true long-term success derives from healthy habits and not solely from medication. Liam also reflects on his personal journey in fitness, illustrating how small steps can lead to...2025-01-1214 min

Wicklow Strength and FitnessGetting Back on Track: How to Reset When You Feel Like You’re FailingFeeling like you’re failing at your fitness goals is something we all experience at times, and today, Liam O'Toole dives into how to reset and refocus when setbacks occur. It’s perfectly normal to encounter obstacles, whether it's a plateau, life distractions, or simply not seeing the results you hoped for. Liam emphasizes the importance of acknowledging these setbacks as part of the journey rather than a signal of failure. By revisiting the SMART framework for goal setting—ensuring your goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound—you can adjust your approach to fit your current lifestyle. Remember...2025-01-0514 min

Wicklow Strength and Fitness2025 Fitness Resolutions: How to Set Goals that StickAs the year draws to a close, Liam O'Toole of Wicklow Strength and Fitness dives into the importance of setting resolutions and goals for the upcoming year. With a humorous twist, he shares his own experiences of holiday cheer mixed with a touch of cold, which many listeners can relate to during the festive season. Transitioning into the heart of the discussion, Liam emphasizes the significance of goal setting, particularly in fitness and health. He introduces the SMART framework—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound—as a practical tool to help listeners clarify their ambitions. By breaking down the proc...2024-12-2923 min

Wicklow Strength and FitnessA Very Merry ChristmasThis festive-themed episode of the Wicklow Strength and Fitness Podcast features Liam reflecting on the year's successes and expressing gratitude to the gym members who make the community thrive. As Christmas approaches, Liam emphasises the importance of taking time to recharge and enjoy celebrations with loved ones while also preparing for the new year ahead. He shares insights on the growing podcast audience and the rewarding feedback he receives, underscoring the significance of small wins in fitness journeys, especially when immediate results aren't visible. The episode also includes a Q&A segment where Liam addresses various questions, ranging from...2024-12-2320 min

Wicklow Strength and FitnessWhy Test Weeks and Habits Matter: Celebrate Your Progress and Set New GoalsThis podcast episode dives into the importance of building sustainable habits as we approach the New Year. Liam emphasises the launch of a habits challenge for gym members in January, focusing on foundational practices that support long-term health and fitness goals. He acknowledges the common tendency to seek quick fixes and extreme diets, advocating instead for gradual changes that can lead to lasting results. The discussion also touches on the significance of assessments and test weeks, highlighting how they serve as benchmarks for progress and opportunities to celebrate achievements. Listeners are encouraged to embrace the journey, trust their coaches...2024-12-1525 min

Wicklow Strength and FitnessBuild Your Health Account: Enjoy the Holidays Guilt-Free!As the holiday season approaches, many individuals grapple with the challenge of balancing festive indulgence and maintaining their health goals. In this engaging episode of the Wicklow Strength and Fitness Podcast, Liam explores the innovative concept of a 'health account.' This metaphorical account allows listeners to understand their health journey in terms of deposits and withdrawals, making it easier to navigate the inevitable temptations that accompany the holidays. Lee draws parallels between financial management and health, emphasising that just as one saves money for future expenses, individuals can build a reserve of health through consistent positive behaviours such...2024-12-0816 min

Wicklow Strength and FitnessWSF 2028: Crafting a Vision for Our Fitness FutureThis week, Liam shares insights from a recent staff meeting focused on the WSF 2028 plan, which aims to enhance both client experience and employee culture over the next three years. He reflects on the pride he felt as his coaching team presented their achievements and growth, emphasising the importance of recognising past accomplishments while setting ambitious future goals. Lee discusses the concept of "vivid vision," which allows for dreaming big without immediate pressure, and how it relates to the gym’s client experience and service approach. As the holiday season approaches, he encourages listeners to enjoy festive indulgences while ma...2024-12-0213 min

Wicklow Strength and FitnessThe Gym Growth Mindset: Celebrating 1% Improvements Every DayThe Wicklow Strength and Fitness Podcast dives deep into the concept of incremental improvements, famously known as the '1% gains' principle. Liam begins by reflecting on personal experiences, including a recent outing to watch Gladiator 2, which serves as a metaphorical backdrop to the theme of evolution and growth. The episode centres around a heartfelt discussion about Katie Verbruggen, a coach who recently returned to the team. Through a candid conversation with Katie, the host learns how much the gym has transformed since her absence, highlighting that while the core offerings remain the same, the passion and professionalism...2024-11-1813 min

Wicklow Strength and FitnessFrom Transactions to Friendships: The Real Impact of Gym CultureThis week’s podcast dives into the vibrant culture that defines our gym community, showcasing how the relationships formed within have blossomed into genuine friendships. Liam shares heartwarming anecdotes from his interactions with gym members and local businesses, emphasising the positivity and kindness that gym-goers exude. He reflects on the importance of fostering strong connections, not just among members but also between staff and clients, which ultimately enhances the overall experience at the gym. Liam also discusses the recent return of Katie Verbruggen, highlighting her role in strengthening those one-to-one relationships. Tune in to hear about upcoming events and th...2024-11-1115 min