Nutrient timing is bullshit. You think the meal you ate a few hours before working out is magically completely digested and out of your system by the end of your workout? Any effect it has is pretty low on the list of priorities below working out regularly and with intensity, eating well generally, getting enough sleep, not drinking or doing drugs too much etc
Protein powder isn't anything special. It's a supplement. As in, it can supplement your diet if you need more protein. Most people get enough if they have a protein source with every meal.