Best Physiologic Flexibility Podcasts (2025)

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Physiology Friday: [Brain Health] Science and Strategies for Optimizing Brain Health w/ Dan Garner, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Coach Travis Mash 49:24

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4d ago49:24

49:24

In today’s episode of Barbell Shrugged, we'll be discussing the various factors that impact brain health and exploring strategies for optimizing brain function. First, we'll be discussing the impact of exercise on brain health. Research has shown that regular exercise can help to improve brain function, enhance cognitive performance, and even reduc…

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Episode 341: Flexing with EAAs: Muscle, Metabolism, and More with Angelo Keely 1:23:57

5d ago1:23:57

1:23:57

On this week’s Flex Diet Podcast, I sit down with Angelo Keely, co-founder of Kion, to geek out on all things essential amino acids (EAAs). We’ll dig into the nitty-gritty science and—more importantly—what that means for you in the real world. Want to pack on more muscle? Drop some fat without feeling wrecked? Stay strong and sharp as the years tic…

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How to Eliminate Back Pain w/ Dr. Melissa Capurro, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #813 49:13

6d ago49:13

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Melissa is a performance physical therapist and is heavily involved in the CrossFit space as a healthcare provider, as well as an athlete. Melissa grew up in the Metropolitan New York area, but now resides in the Tampa Bay area. Upon graduating from PT school, Melissa started working in an outpatient orthopedic physical therapy practice, but was un…

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Physiology Friday: [Blood Work] High Performance Blood Chemistry w/ Dan Garner, Anders Varner, and Doug Larson 47:51

11d ago47:51

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In today’s episode of Barbell Shrugged Dan Garner dives into how you can start to analyze your yearly bloodwork for performance. Standard blood tests can be ordered around the globe, in every country, and are the gold standard for understanding basic health. The normal reference ranges, however, are not giving you the answers you are looking for wh…

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Hard Truths from a Lifetime of Training w/ Bryan Boorstein, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #812 59:48

13d ago59:48

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Bryan Boorstein has 24 years of training and over 13 years of coaching experience. A 3-time CrossFit Regional athlete and CrossFit Games coach, Bryan holds a Bachelor of Science from JMU (2006) and certifications in CrossFit L-2 and Mobility. As the owner and founder of Evolved Training Systems and Paragon Training Methods, he’s a trusted name in f…

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Episode 340: Hybrid Training and Meathead Cardio with Bryan Boorstein 1:20:32

15d ago1:20:32

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In this week’s Flex Diet Podcast, I sit down with fitness expert Bryan Boorstein to dig into the idea of “Meathead Cardio.” Brian has been in the lifting world for years, but over time, he began adding more cardio into his routine—and not only did it stick, it actually improved his performance and health. We talk about why hybrid training isn’t the…

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Physiology Friday: The Rhythm of Rest: Unlocking Sleep Potential Naturally w/ Dr. Chris Perry, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash 54:16

18d ago54:16

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Dr. Christopher A. Perry, an Assistant Professor at Eastern Kentucky University, began his fitness journey at Penn State University, where he developed a robust background in Strength & Conditioning leading to 17 years in the industry to date. His academic path, leading through a PhD at Arizona State University, deepened his expertise in Exercise S…

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The Truth About Energy Drinks w/ Flavia Pereira, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #811 47:06

20d ago47:06

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Flavia is a passionate CISSN nutrition coach, full-time Exercise & Sport Science faculty member, and beach volleyball strength & nutrition coach. She has been teaching and coaching for the past 18 years. She graduated with a B.S. and M.S. in Kinesiology - Exercise Science and is pursuing her Ph.D. in Health & Human Performance. Flavia is part of th…

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Episode 339: Performance Tracking and AI in Athletics with Coach Troy Beauregard 1:07:55

22d ago1:07:55

1:07:55

Welcome back to the Flex Diet Podcast. I’m Dr. Mike T Nelson, and today I’ve got a great conversation lined up with Coach Troy Beauregard from Canada. We dig into one of my favorite rabbit holes: performance tracking for athletes. We cover why it’s so important to keep tabs on what’s happening in the gym and how you don’t need super-fancy gear to s…

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Physiology Friday: How to Build a Killer Cardiovascular System w/ Dr. Mike T. Nelson, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash 52:24

25d ago52:24

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In today’s episode of Barbell Shrugged, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis sit down with Anders coach, Dr. Mike T. Nelson. For those that have followed the show, you know Anders has been in pursuit of running a sub-6 minute mile at the age of 40. Dr. Nelson is the coach Anders hired to help with that goal. In this episode the crew walks through…

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When to Make Changes to Your Training w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #810 51:57

27d ago51:57

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The crew breaks down how to know when it’s time to pivot your training. From bodybuilding and Olympic lifting to CrossFit, strongman, and martial arts, they share what decades under the bar have taught them about adapting for longevity, avoiding injury, and keeping fitness enjoyable. In this episode, you will learn: How to recognize when your train…

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Episode 338: Tabata Myths & Flexible Meathead Cardio Level 2: Enroll by Aug 12, 2025 21:27

29d ago21:27

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Join me on The Flex Diet Podcast as I break down the iconic 1996 Tabata study that’s been hyped for its fat-burning benefits. Tabata training has become a fitness staple, but is it really all it’s cracked up to be? I’ll uncover the myths, dive into the science, and explain why true Tabata isn’t exactly beginner-friendly. Learn about its real effect…

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Physiology Friday: [Immune System] Why Optimal Nutrition Starts with the Immune System w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, Coach Travis Mash and Dan Garner 56:46

1M ago56:46

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In this Episode of Barbell Shrugged: What is the immune system Why the immune system is responsible for building muscle How gut health impacts the immune system Understanding recovery and its impact on the immune system How to optimize your immune system for performance Visit https://rapidhealthoptimization.com Connect with our guests: Anders Varne…

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Protein and Amino Acids to Become Combat Ready w/ Dr Jess Gwin, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #809 53:46

1M ago53:46

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Dr. Jess Gwin is a PhD in Nutritional Science and post-doctoral fellowship focused on muscle physiology and protein metabolism. Researcher in protein/essential amino acids (EAAs) nutrition, muscle preservation, and energy deficiency. Advocate for using data-driven nutrition to extend health span and performance. Work With Us: Arétē by RAPID Health …

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Episode 337: Deep Dive into Muscular Hypertrophy with Dr. Mike Roberts 1:21:31

1M ago1:21:31

1:21:31

On this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I chat with Dr. Mike Roberts, a full professor at Auburn University and head of the Nutri Bolt Applied and Molecular Physiology Lab. Mike’s one of the sharpest minds in muscle science, and we go deep into the nitty-gritty of hypertrophy, including everything from rodent studies to human trials to the molecu…

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Physiology Friday: [Blood Sugar] The Most Optimal Way to Control Blood Sugar w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, Coach Travis Mash and Dan Garner 58:46

1M ago58:46

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In this Episode of Barbell Shrugged: What to look for in lab work about your glucose levels What Doctors will not tell you about your glucose levels How to know if you are pre-pre-diabetic Why normal range for your glucose levels could be a bad thing How to regulate blood glucose and why it is important Connect with our guests: Anders Varner on Ins…

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Episode 336: Solocast Anaerobic Chaos Incoming (Level 2 Preview) 19:51

1M ago19:51

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In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I break down how to train your cardio without wrecking your strength gains. We’re digging into the real roles of your aerobic and anaerobic systems—why most lifters skip the boring base work, and why that’s a big mistake if you want better performance and recovery. I also share a sneak peek at the upcoming …

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Physiology Friday: [Gut Health] The Epicenter of Health Optimization w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, Coach Travis Mash and Dan Garner Barbell Shrugged 45:23

2M ago45:23

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In this Episode of Barbell Shrugged: Why the gut is so important for optimal health. What causes poor gut health and how to avoid it How important is a stool sample to find potential hidden stressors What your poop can tell you about your health Ways to improve gut health https://rapidhealthoptimization.com Connect with our guests: Anders Varner on…

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SORINEX: LEGENDARY STRENGTH TRAINING W/ BERT SORIN, ANDERS VARNER, DOUG LARSON, AND COACH TRAVIS MASH BARBELL SHRUGGED #592 2:17:52

2M ago2:17:52

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Bert and his wonderful wife Lesley are the proud parents of three children. Bert and his family, a family rooted in strength, have been entrenched in the human performance world for as far back as he can remember. Growing up with a barbell in his hand has been pivotal in charting the course of his life and leading him to become a 4-time Division 1 …

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Episode 335: Grip, Guts & Gas Tanks: Aerobic Training for Meatheads with Levi Earl 1:16:05

2M ago1:16:05

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In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I’m joined by the always-interesting Levi Earl, who's tuning in all the way from Finland, to nerd out on all things aerobic training, grip strength, and how to make your meathead conditioning actually work for you, not against you. We dive into why strength athletes need better aerobic systems (no, it’s not…

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How Travis Mash Got a 6-Pack at 50 Years Old w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #807 56:24

2M ago56:24

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The home team is back again and Travis Mash has been posting too many shirtless selfies with all the abs for us not address the nutrition, fitness, and training programs he is up to. Tons of insight into getting back to the basics, simplifying, and making it all work while keeping family at the center of it all. Enjoy. Work With Us: Arétē by RAPID …

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Episode 334: Max Gains, Less Time: Myo-Reps, Hypertrophy & Recovery with Dr. Antonella Schwarz 1:17:17

2M ago1:17:17

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On this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I’m joined by Dr. Antonella Schwarz to geek out over her recent study on myo-reps, which she presented at the International Society of Sports Nutrition. We break down what myo-reps are, where the concept came from, and how they stack up against more traditional hypertrophy protocols. We also dive into some …

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Physiology Friday: [Physique Transformation] How Hormones Help Build Muscle and Burn Fat w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, Coach Travis Mash and Dan Garner 58:33

2M ago58:33

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In this Episode of Barbell Shrugged: The relationship between testosterone and cortisol The relationship between calories, macronutrients, and micronutrients Why micronutrients matter for achieving a lean physique Optimal hormone ratios for physique transformation How does menstrual cycle affect performance Understanding gut health and it’s affects…

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Clockwork Cognition: Engineering the 24-Hour Human for Peak Performance in the Digital-AI Era w/ Dr. Chis Perry, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #806 52:48

2M ago52:48

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Dr. Christopher A. Perry, a Clinical Assistant Professor at the University at Buffalo, began his fitness journey at Penn State University, where he developed a robust background in Strength & Conditioning leading to 17 years in the industry to date. His academic path, leading through a PhD at Arizona State University, deepened his expertise in Exer…

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Episode 333: Coach Cal Dietz on Triphasic Training, Pain, and Performance – Q&A Edition 1:03:24

2M ago1:03:24

1:03:24

Welcome back to the Flex Diet Podcast. I’m Dr. Mike T. Nelson, and in this episode, I’m joined by the legendary Coach Cal Dietz from the University of Minnesota. This was originally a bonus call for the Phasic 2 book, but it was packed with so much gold, I had to bring it to the podcast. We dig into a wide range of performance topics, including eve…

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Physiology Friday: How Your Cardiovascular System Improves Metabolic Health w/ Dr. Nathan Jenkins, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash 51:43

2M ago51:43

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Dr. Nathan Jenkins is the new labs analyst for RAPID Health Optimization. He was previously a tenured professor of exercise science, and has worked for many years as a nutrition coach with over 1000 clients to date. Dr. Jenkins blends evidence-based practices and real-world experience, with academic expertise in lifestyle modification for chronic d…

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Legacy Beyond Labels: Leonard Marshall on Wealth, Purpose, and Life Post-Competition with Leonard Marshall. Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #805 51:03

2M ago51:03

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Leonard Marshall is the oldest of seven children from the rural town of Franklin, Louisiana. Hegraduated from Franklin High School in 1979 and attended Louisiana State University (LSU). Heattended LSU from 1979 until he was drafted from LSU in the spring of 1983. Leonard Marshall was coached by legendary LSU coaches Jerry Stovall and Pete Jenkins. …

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Episode 332: Muscles, Mind, and Metrics: Biomechanics with Dr. Doug Goldstein 1:23:47

2M ago1:23:47

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In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Doug Goldstein for a deep dive into biomechanics, performance, and recovery. We get into the weeds on muscle performance, body comp, and how to reduce injury risk—stuff that matters whether you're an elite athlete or just trying to move and feel better. We also explore some cutting-edge …

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Episode 331: The Bloodwork Blueprint for Bodybuilders with Michael Warner 1:09:03

2M ago1:09:03

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In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I’m diving into the nitty-gritty of blood work and why it matters for your health, performance, and longevity, especially if you're an athlete, bodybuilder, or serious about your training. Fresh off the ISSN (International Society of Sports Nutrition) conference, I’m joined by Michael Warner, a sharp coach …

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Physiology Friday: Sleep’s Role in Cellular and Metabolic Health w/ Dr. Chris Perry, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Coach Travis Mash 54:01

2M ago54:01

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Dr. Christopher A. Perry, a Clinical Assistant Professor at the University at Buffalo, began his fitness journey at Penn State University, where he developed a robust background in Strength & Conditioning leading to 17 years in the industry to date. His academic path, leading through a PhD at Arizona State University, deepened his expertise in Exer…

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Spine Surgery Preparation, Recovery, and Metal Allergy Testing w/ Dr. Mitch Reiter, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #804 51:08

3M ago51:08

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Dr. Mitchell Reiter is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with fellowship training in spinal surgery who has been in practice in New Jersey managing patients with spinal disorders for more than 20 years. Dr. Reiter is one of those rare individuals that always knew that he wanted to be a physician. Straight out of high school he entered the presti…

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Flex Diet Cert Closes TONIGHT Mon June 23, 2025 + a Huge Body Comp Tip 15:53

3M ago15:53

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Flex Diet Certification Enrollment Deadline (click here) & Optimal Weight Loss Strategies In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, Dr. Mike Nelson discusses the closing of the Flex Diet Certification enrollment, emphasizing its comprehensive program for improving body composition, muscle gain, and performance through nutrition and recovery. Dr. Ne…

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Physiology Friday: [Hormone Dysfunction] Birth Control, TRT, HRT, and Toxicity w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, Coach Travis Mash and Dan Garner 55:43

3M ago55:43

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In this Episode of Barbell Shrugged: How Birth Control can reduce testosterone by 70% Birth controls affects on your physique How to pick the right birth control What are drug induced nutrient depletions How to best handle menopause and andropause What happens when you do not have a cycle for 5+ years What is wrong with TRT and HRT How heavy metal …

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Cardio and Competition for Mature Meatheads w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #803 47:49

3M ago47:49

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In todays Episode of Barbell Shrugged, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash dive into Mash partnership with Sorinex and the success of Spring Cleaning in April. In addition, Mash is going back to the platform in powerlifting and the team discussed the differences in training and mindset competing in their 40’s and 50’ vs their 20’s. And fina…

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Episode 329: Unlocking Metabolic Flexibility: The Flex Diet Cert Is Open! 21:00

3M ago21:00

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Hey there, Dr. Mike T Nelson here. In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I’m excited to announce that the Flex Diet Certification is officially open! I’m recording this one from Europe, and I’ll walk you through what the cert is all about. The Flex Diet Cert is my comprehensive program that dives deep into the worlds of nutrition and recovery, …

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Physiology Friday: [Caloric Ranges] How to Eat More Food Without Gaining Weight w/ Zach Moore, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash 49:25

3M ago49:25

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Zach Moore is a highly sought after nutrition and exercise coach who has personally coached over 1000 clients. His clientele have ranged from top level professional athletes and physique competitors to health enthusiasts of all ages. Moore has worked with some of the most well known companies in the industry including Precision Nutrition, Nourish B…

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The Future of Personalized Medicine w/ Shaun Noorian, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #802 50:41

3M ago50:41

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In 2009, Shaun Noorian founded Empower Pharmacy driven by a personal journey. Diagnosed with a chronic medical condition, Noorian discovered the life-changing benefits of compounded medicine. Empower was born from his desire to share this positive impact with others, with a mission to produce innovative medications that help people live healthier, …

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Episode 328: Grit Gains: Building Mental Toughness and Resilience in Training with Ben Mayfield Smith 1:42:16

3M ago1:42:16

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Welcome back to the Flex Diet Podcast! I'm Dr. Mike T Nelson, and in this episode, I’m joined by Ben Mayfield Smith, a coach, researcher, and all-around grit expert from Australia, for a deep dive into what it really means to build resilience in both training and life. We unpack the science and psychology behind grit, perseverance, and stress adapt…

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Physiology Friday: [Mental Health] A 6 Step Approach Connecting Mind, Body, and Nutrition w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, Travis Mash and Dan Garner 59:09

3M ago59:09

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In today’s episode of Barbell Shrugged we cover: A framework for understanding mental health and physiology The relationship between the mind and the body How physiology follows psychology How to turn your thoughts into character traits How come prescriptions and medications can make mental health worse How sleep is the gateway to improving mental …

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Fertility and Men's Reproductive Health w/ Drew Manning, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #801 46:22

3M ago46:22

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Dr. Justin Houman is a board-certified urologist and fellowship-trained Men’s Sexual and Reproductive Health specialist whose practice is focused on male fertility, erectile dysfunction, sexual performance, testosterone management, Peyronie’s Disease, vasectomy reversals, and vasectomies. As a minimally-invasive microscopic surgeon, he specializes …

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Episode 327: Flexible Meathead Cardio: Barbell Shrugged Rebroadcast with Dr Mike T Nelson 51:11

3M ago51:11

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Welcome back to the Flex Diet Podcast! I’m your host, Dr. Mike T. Nelson, and today’s episode is a special rebroadcast of a conversation I had on the Barbell Shrugged podcast with Anders Varner. We dive deep into what I call the Flexible Meathead Cardio Approach — a method designed specifically for strength athletes and lifters who know they need c…

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Physiology Friday: [Constipation] A Five Step System for Perfect Poops w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, Travis Mash and Dan Garner Barbell Shrugged 47:55

3M ago47:55

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In today’s episode of Barbell Shrugged: Why adding water can help eliminate constipation Why “more fiber” may not be the answer to better bowels. Which magnesium supplement is optimal for reducing constipation. Why you need to buy a squatty potty for your best pooping position. How exercise improves motility. Why coffee and caffeine are important t…

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FIT2FAT2FIT to Optimal Health w/ Drew Manning, Anders Varner, Doug Larson and Travis Mash #800 59:25

3M ago59:25

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Drew Manning is The NY Times Best Selling Author of the book, Fit2Fat2Fit, and creator of the hit TV show, Fit To Fat To Fit on A&E. He’s been featured on many TV shows such as Dr. Oz, The Tonight Show, CNN, The View, GMA and many more. With over 1 million social media followers, Drew continues on his mission to reshape the fitness industry with an…

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Episode 326: Row Hard, Breathe Easy: Boosting Aerobic Capacity with Dr. Kenneth Jay 1:29:08

4M ago1:29:08

1:29:08

Welcome back to the Flex Diet Podcast! I’m your host, Dr. Mike T. Nelson, and in this episode, I sit down with my good friend Dr. Kenneth Jay, a PhD in Physiology and Biomechanics, coach to Olympic-level athletes, and creator of the Row Forge app. We go deep on all things cardiovascular performance, especially how to improve aerobic capacity withou…

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Physiology Friday: [THYROID] Function, Dysfunction, Brain Chemistry, and Autoimmunity w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, Travis Mash and Dan Garner 43:06

4M ago43:06

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In today’s episode of Barbell Shrugged: The Thyroid’s impact on weight gain What is the function of the thyroid What causes thyroid dysfunction The relationship between hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and thyroid Thyroids role in autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto’s and Grave’s disease How gut health affects the thyroid How Vitamin A regulates the t…

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Aligning Actions with a Purpose Driven Life w/ Chris Hoppe, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #799 52:52

4M ago52:52

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Chris Hoppe has spent nearly two decades immersed in the world of coaching — from CrossFit and personal training to recovery support, breathwork, and behavioral health. His approach blends performance and presence, helping clients not just optimize their bodies, but reconnect to their lives in a deeper, more meaningful way. Chris has guided people …

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Episode 325: The Uncommon Science of Cold: Brown Fat, Resilience & Recovery with Dr. Thomas Seager 1:44:57

4M ago1:44:57

1:44:57

Welcome back to the Flex Diet Podcast. I'm Dr. Mike T. Nelson, and today I’m diving into the frigid but fascinating world of cold water immersion with Dr. Thomas P. Seeger — a true pioneer in sustainable engineering and a leading voice on cold exposure. We break down the latest science behind cold plunges, including how they impact brown fat, metab…

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Physiology Friday: [LIBIDO] The Biochemistry of Improving Your Sex Drive w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, Travis Mash and Dan Garner 54:55

4M ago54:55

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In today’s episode of Barbell Shrugged you will learn: The internal mechanisms that create your sex drive. How psychological, hormonal, and functional dysfunction impacts sex drive. The biochemistry of boners The nervous system’s response to sexual arousal The psychology of porn addiction Supplementation that can improve your sex drive Impacts of c…

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The Truth About GLP-1 Medications w/ Dr. Garrett Butler, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #798 55:26

4M ago55:26

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Garrett Butler, MD. Husband, father, son, friend, and family doc in rural WV. Undergraduate in Physics from Johns Hopkins University. Undergraduate in Molecular and Cell Biology from Towson University. MD from West Virginia University School of Medicine. Family Medicine residency at WVU SOM. Hospitalist at Vandalia Health Davis Medical Center. Outp…

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Episode 324: Exploring Microdosing: Benefits, Research, and Personal Experiences 56:35

4M ago56:35

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In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I sit down with Dr. James Fadiman and Jordan Gruber to talk all things microdosing—what it is, what it isn’t, and why it’s gaining so much traction in health, performance and even mental clarity. We dig into their new book, Microdosing for Healing, Health, and Enhanced Performance, and cover everything from…