James Strickland is a record breaking powerlifter.

How he fell into lifting is worthy of an ESPN documentary. His journey involves a desire to get back into shape and get drafted into the NFL.

But he's more than a strongman.

James spends time mentoring students and running a business.

During this episode, we dive into the road to lifting 700 lbs, lessons learned from his athletic career and how he applies them in business, and of course, weight training.

James Strickland is a record breaking powerlifter.
How he fell into lifting is worthy of an ESPN documentary. His journey involves a desire to get back into shape and get drafted into the NFL.
But he's more than a strongman.
James spends time mentoring students and running a business.
During this episode, we dive into the road to lifting 700 lbs, lessons learned from his athletic career and how he applies them in business, and of course, weight training.

A podcast for Houstonians who want to engage more with their hometown and learn about the people driving its growth.

These are the stories about the individuals, businesses, and organizations that make the greater Houston area GREAT.

A podcast for Houstonians who want to engage more with their hometown and learn about the people driving its growth.
These are the stories about the individuals, businesses, and organizations that make the greater Houston area GREAT.

A podcast for Houstonians who want to engage more with their hometown and learn more about the people driving its growth.

Cruz through HTX

A podcast for Houstonians who want to engage more with their hometown and learn more about the people driving its growth.

Cruz through HTX spotlights the stories, individuals, businesses, and organizations that make the Houston area GREAT.

A podcast for Houstonians who want to engage more with their hometown and learn more about the people driving its growth.
Cruz through HTX spotlights the stories, individuals, businesses, and organizations that make the Houston area GREAT.

Twenty-six year radio veteran Freddy Cruz has gone indie.


From former special forces operators and CEOs to authors and journalists, join
Freddy as he seeks to learn from some of the highest achieving individuals in the
world. These are stories of grit and blasting through the crucible of life. Stories of
standing up to powerful corporations and defying the odds. Not all of his guests
are authors, but they all have epic stories to share.

Freddy Cruz

A Houston Man's Road to Powerlifting 700 lbs.

Effective today, Cruz through HTX will go dark for a period not to exceed three months.

The intent of the show has and always will be to share the stories of the businesses, organizations, and individuals that make the Greater Houston area GREAT.

But it's time to take a pause.

We've had a nice, long run of well over a hundred shows. I did it to prove to myself it can be done and to prove to myself that the town that made me, still cares. It does.

But in order to continue the value proposition of the show, I've decided to release shows on a seasonal basis. Here's what I'm thinking: 20-25 episodes over two to three months.

So, while I won't be releasing new episodes for a while, I'll be back with a batch of conversations that will entertain, inform, and possibly enlighten you.

'Till next time...

Effective today, Cruz through HTX will go dark for a period not to exceed three months.
The intent of the show has and always will be to share the stories of the businesses, organizations, and individuals that make the Greater Houston area GREAT.
But it's time to take a pause.
We've had a nice, long run of well over a hundred shows. I did it to prove to myself it can be done and to prove to myself that the town that made me, still cares. It does.
But in order to continue the value proposition of the show, I've decided to release shows on a seasonal basis. Here's what I'm thinking: 20-25 episodes over two to three months.
So, while I won't be releasing new episodes for a while, I'll be back with a batch of conversations that will entertain, inform, and possibly enlighten you.
'Till next time...

A Change is Coming Soon

How do you create memorable events that leave a lasting impact?

Freddy Cruz and Roger Igo delve into the art of event planning. Roger shares his early experiences with organizing high school talent shows and how those formative years shaped his approach to event production. At the bell tower on 34th, his method focuses on creating unforgettable memories for guests.
Roger discusses handling unexpected situations like uninvited guests and rowdy attendees. His team's preparation and quick thinking ensure the event continues smoothly. He emphasizes the importance of starting with the desired outcome and reverse engineering the event planning process.

Roger highlights the framework used at the bell tower to produce top-notch events, blending decor, energy management, and sensory elements. They consider each aspect meticulously, striving for a seamless experience from start to finish.

Visit thebelltoweron34th.com or rogerigo.com for more details on planning your next event.

Subscribe to the show HERE.

Key Takeaways

1.) Roger Igo's initial experience in organizing events during his high school talent show.

2.) Early involvement in event planning, even at a small scale, can ignite a passion

3.) The ultimate goal of event planning is to create positive, long-lasting memories. Working backward from desired outcomes helps ensure that every aspect of the event contributes to this goal.

4.) Handling unexpected situations gracefully can turn them into memorable stories that don't detract from the event's success.

5.) Event venues are a work in progress, requiring ongoing maintenance and a strong team effort. Striving for excellence in every sensory detail and aspect of the service ensures consistently high standards.

Main conceptual takeaway: Roger Igo emphasizes the significance of thoughtful preparation, high standards, and adaptability in event planning. These elements ensure that each event, regardless of its scale, creates cherished memories and meaningful connections for all attendees.

Timestamped Overview

00:00 Part of two bands, formed show style.
03:46 Houston events aim for historical impact and scale.
09:27 Addressing unexpected event disruptions at weddings.
09:58 Incorporate drama avatars into events for memory.
15:44 Uninvited guests causing chaos at the event.
16:52 Educating event planners on organizing successful events.

How do you create memorable events that leave a lasting impact?
Freddy Cruz and Roger Igo delve into the art of event planning. Roger shares his early experiences with organizing high school talent shows and how those formative years shaped his approach to event production. At the bell tower on 34th, his method focuses on creating unforgettable memories for guests. Roger discusses handling unexpected situations like uninvited guests and rowdy attendees. His team's preparation and quick thinking ensure the event continues smoothly. He emphasizes the importance of starting with the desired outcome and reverse engineering the event planning process.
Roger highlights the framework used at the bell tower to produce top-notch events, blending decor, energy management, and sensory elements. They consider each aspect meticulously, striving for a seamless experience from start to finish.
Visit <a href="https://thebelltoweron34th.com/#wedding/venues/houston">thebelltoweron34th.com</a> or <a href="https://www.rogerigo.com">rogerigo.com</a> for more details on planning your next event.
Subscribe to the show <a href="https://www.cruzthroughhtx.com/listennow">HERE</a>.
Key Takeaways
1.) Roger Igo's initial experience in organizing events during his high school talent show.
2.) Early involvement in event planning, even at a small scale, can ignite a passion
3.) The ultimate goal of event planning is to create positive, long-lasting memories. Working backward from desired outcomes helps ensure that every aspect of the event contributes to this goal.
4.) Handling unexpected situations gracefully can turn them into memorable stories that don't detract from the event's success.
5.) Event venues are a work in progress, requiring ongoing maintenance and a strong team effort. Striving for excellence in every sensory detail and aspect of the service ensures consistently high standards.
Main conceptual takeaway: Roger Igo emphasizes the significance of thoughtful preparation, high standards, and adaptability in event planning. These elements ensure that each event, regardless of its scale, creates cherished memories and meaningful connections for all attendees.
Timestamped Overview
00:00 Part of two bands, formed show style. 03:46 Houston events aim for historical impact and scale. 09:27 Addressing unexpected event disruptions at weddings. 09:58 Incorporate drama avatars into events for memory. 15:44 Uninvited guests causing chaos at the event. 16:52 Educating event planners on organizing successful events.

Tales from a Houston Event Maestro

Why would anyone want to go on a 10,000 mile motorcycle ride?

For Mike Hazelrigs, there are plenty of reasons.

Mike discusses his experience, from working at Astroworld to embarking on the Hokahay Motorcycle Challenge, a 10,000-mile motorcycle ride starting in Florida and ending in Homer, Alaska. He shares his favorite memory from Astroworld, riding the Texas Cyclone, and explains the nickname "Squatch" given to him by friends. Mike elaborates on the rigorous preparations required for the ride, including his choice to purchase a new motorcycle and the importance of conditioning both body and mind for the journey.

The ride supports various charities, with Mike raising funds for The Rose, a breast cancer organization close to his heart. His personal connection to the cause comes from his fiancée’s battle with breast cancer. Mike aims to raise awareness and funds, driven by the motto: “If I can't save her, try to save others.”

Help Mike keep smashing his fundraising goal for The Rose HERE.

Learn more about the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge HERE.

Subscribe to the show HERE.

Key Takeaways

1.) Working at a place like Astroworld can teach significant life skills, particularly in dealing with people in various states of emotion. It helps in understanding human behavior and appreciating impactful moments in others' lives.

2.) Preparing for a grueling ride like the Hokahay Motorcycle Challenge involves not only physical and mechanical readiness but also mental endurance. Key preparations include building physical endurance, selecting appropriate food, and learning to manage time effectively on the road.

3.) Being a caregiver is an emotionally taxing role that requires immense mental strength and self-care. Caregivers must find ways to refill their emotional and physical energy to remain effective, underscoring the importance of self-care amid the challenges.

4.) Undertaking significant challenges can be driven by deeply personal motivations and the desire to make a difference. In Mike's case, raising funds for the Rose and supporting his fiancée highlights how personal connections and altruism can fuel perseverance in difficult endeavors.

5.) The concept of pushing beyond perceived limits, as emphasized through the analogy of internal 'governor,' shows the importance of mental resilience. This theme underscores the idea that individuals are often capable of more than they initially believe, aligning with the challenge's goal of finding one's true potential.

Timestamped Overview

00:00 Astroworld experience taught valuable lessons about people.
07:04 One third don't complete the ride.
07:48 Comparison to David Goggins and internal governor.
11:32 Admiration for Hokahay leads to family tradition.
15:36 Starting a nonprofit, breast cancer, caregiver advice.
18:50 Making impact, helping others, receiving more.
21:03 Difficulty navigating roads during high tourist season.

Why would anyone want to go on a 10,000 mile motorcycle ride?
For <a href="https://hokaheymotorcyclechallenge.blogspot.com/2024/04/meet-new-rider-1197-mike-hazelrigs.html">Mike Hazelrigs</a>, there are plenty of reasons.
Mike discusses his experience, from working at Astroworld to embarking on the Hokahay Motorcycle Challenge, a 10,000-mile motorcycle ride starting in Florida and ending in Homer, Alaska. He shares his favorite memory from Astroworld, riding the Texas Cyclone, and explains the nickname "Squatch" given to him by friends. Mike elaborates on the rigorous preparations required for the ride, including his choice to purchase a new motorcycle and the importance of conditioning both body and mind for the journey.
The ride supports various charities, with Mike raising funds for The Rose, a breast cancer organization close to his heart. His personal connection to the cause comes from his fiancée’s battle with breast cancer. Mike aims to raise awareness and funds, driven by the motto: “If I can't save her, try to save others.”
Help <a href="https://hokaheymotorcyclechallenge.blogspot.com/2024/04/meet-new-rider-1197-mike-hazelrigs.html">Mike</a> keep smashing his fundraising goal for The Rose <a href="https://fundraise.givesmart.com/e/4ottTQ?vid=16hyhu">HERE</a>.
Learn more about the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge <a href="https://hokaheychallenge.com">HERE</a>.
Subscribe to the show <a href="https://www.cruzthroughhtx.com/listennow">HERE</a>.
Key Takeaways
1.) Working at a place like Astroworld can teach significant life skills, particularly in dealing with people in various states of emotion. It helps in understanding human behavior and appreciating impactful moments in others' lives.
2.) Preparing for a grueling ride like the Hokahay Motorcycle Challenge involves not only physical and mechanical readiness but also mental endurance. Key preparations include building physical endurance, selecting appropriate food, and learning to manage time effectively on the road.
3.) Being a caregiver is an emotionally taxing role that requires immense mental strength and self-care. Caregivers must find ways to refill their emotional and physical energy to remain effective, underscoring the importance of self-care amid the challenges.
4.) Undertaking significant challenges can be driven by deeply personal motivations and the desire to make a difference. In Mike's case, raising funds for the Rose and supporting his fiancée highlights how personal connections and altruism can fuel perseverance in difficult endeavors.
5.) The concept of pushing beyond perceived limits, as emphasized through the analogy of internal 'governor,' shows the importance of mental resilience. This theme underscores the idea that individuals are often capable of more than they initially believe, aligning with the challenge's goal of finding one's true potential.
Timestamped Overview
00:00 Astroworld experience taught valuable lessons about people. 07:04 One third don't complete the ride. 07:48 Comparison to David Goggins and internal governor. 11:32 Admiration for Hokahay leads to family tradition. 15:36 Starting a nonprofit, breast cancer, caregiver advice. 18:50 Making impact, helping others, receiving more. 21:03 Difficulty navigating roads during high tourist season.

A Houston Man's Road to Powerlifting 700 lbs.

In 1 playlist(s)

Freddy Cruz

Social links

Follow podcast

Recent clips