Dr. Mike T Nelson gets geeky with the latest research and scientific findings in the fitness world. Visit www.flexdiet.com to get Flex Diet Certified and www.miketnelson.com for more geeky goodness.
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Physiologic Flexibility Podcasts
New episode every Wednesday! Join the Barbell Shrugged crew in conversations about fitness, training, and frequent interviews w/ CrossFit Games athletes!
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Natural health, how that relates to mindset, and conversations on spirituality, holistic health, herbalism, mental health, and self healing. If you need solutions to digestive health, sleep, sustainable energy, natural skincare, self love, and self care, this podcast is your new favorite resource. Your host is Emily Ciosek, a health coach certified in Ayurveda, an ancient indian herbal science. Emily has had a rough health history, but healed herself by building strategies to break unhealthy ...
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Four Levers of Physiological Flexibility w/ Dr. Michael T. Nelson, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #816
54:14
54:14
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54:14Dr. Mike T. Nelson has spent 18 years of his life learning how the human body works, specifically focusing on how to properly condition it to burn fat and become stronger, more flexible, and healthier. He’s has a PhD in Exercise Physiology, a BA in Natural Science, and an MS in Biomechanics. He’s an adjunct professor and a member of the American Co…
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Episode 344: Metabolic Adaptations, Lactate, and Training Smarter with Dr. Phil Batterson
1:48:34
1:48:34
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1:48:34On this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I’m joined once again by Dr. Phil Batterson to nerd out on one of my favorite topics: anaerobic metabolism. We dig into what’s really happening during high-intensity training, the role of lactate, and why much of the “anaerobic vs. aerobic” discussion you hear is oversimplified (or just plain wrong). We als…
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Four Pillars of Anti-Aging w/ Blair LaCorte, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #815
58:03
58:03
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58:03Blair LaCorte is the Vice Chair of the Board of Directors at the Buck Institute for Research on Aging—the world’s first biomedical research institution dedicated solely to understanding aging and age-related diseases, and the largest independent scientific institute in the Bay Area. A seasoned leader and strategist, Blair has a track record of tran…
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Episode 343: Fueling the Corporate Athlete: Stress, Supplements & Performance with Dan Hunter
1:36:10
1:36:10
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1:36:10On this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I sit down with Dan Hunter to talk all things “corporate athlete.” If you’re trying to crush it at work and not feel like a melted quesadilla by 3 p.m., this one’s for you. We dig into the real-world challenges of staying sharp under stress, from building sustainable habits to fueling your brain with tools …
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Episode 342: Balancing Nutrition and Social Life with David Page
48:56
48:56
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48:56On this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I’m joined by award-winning journalist and food nerd David Page, the guy who created Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. We get into the wild evolution of American cuisine, the social role of food, and how to balance eating what you love with not tanking your health. David also shares his personal story with diabe…
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The Path to IFBB Pro w/ Aaron Starker, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #814
55:17
55:17
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55:17Aaron Straker is a N.A.S.N. Licensed Primary Sports Nutritionist. He prefers a pragmatic approach to nutrition that focuses on simple food selection, the importance of nutrient density, and the importance of objectivity in dieting and reporting. Today on Barbell Shrugged we dive into Straker’s path to becoming and IFBB Pro. From injury, setbacks, d…
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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
49:24
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49:24In 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
1:23:57
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1:23:57On 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
49:13
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49:13Melissa 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
47:51
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47:51In 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
59:48
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59:48Bryan 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
1:20:32
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1:20:32In 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
54:16
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54:16Dr. 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
47:06
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47:06Flavia 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
1:07:55
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1:07:55Welcome 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
52:24
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52:24In 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
51:57
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51:57The 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
21:27
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21:27Join 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
56:46
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56:46In 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
53:46
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53:46Dr. 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
1:21:31
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1:21:31On 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
58:46
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58:46In 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
19:51
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19:51In 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
45:23
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45:23In 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
2:17:52
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2:17:52Bert 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
1:16:05
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1:16:05In 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
56:24
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56:24The 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
1:17:17
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1:17:17On 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
58:33
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58:33In 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
52:48
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52:48Dr. 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
1:03:24
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1:03:24Welcome 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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