OVER 20,000,000 DOWNLOADS AND COUNTING! If you want to know how to build muscle, lose fat, and be healthier, happier, and wiser...faster than you ever thought possible...then this podcast is for you. Hosted by the bestselling author and entrepreneur, Mike Matthews, each episode gives you simple, science-based know-how and inspiration that will help you build your best body and life ever. Find out more at www.legionathletics.com
In this episode, I discuss the natural limits of muscle growth and how genetics play a role, my daily Legion supplement stack, the best time to go to the gym lots more.
As always, these questions come directly from my Instagram followers, who take advantage of my weekly Q&As in my stories.
If you have a question you're dying to have answered, make sure you follow me on Instagram (@muscleforlifefitness) and look out for the Q&A posts. Your question might just make it into a podcast episode!
If you like this type of episode, let me know. Send me an email ([email protected]) or direct message me on Instagram. And if you don’t like it, let me know that too or how you think it could be better.
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Timestamps:
(05:27) Natural gains
(10:28) Reverse cardio after a cut?
(11:49) High reps vs. low reps fatigue?
(13:12) Deadlift utility?
(16:39) BLS exercises
(19:28) Alternating vs. simultaneous curls?
(19:55) Supplement stack
(21:44) Extra lateral raises: overkill?
(23:08) Weightlifting belt
(24:13) Shoulder impingement help?
(24:43) Best training time
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Mentioned on the Show:
How can being "uncommon" help us overcome challenges and grow personally? How can we build resilience, enhance emotional control, and lead with purpose?
In this interview, I welcome back Mark Divine, a former Navy SEAL, bestselling author, and mindfulness expert, who shares his approach to cultivating mental toughness and inner strength.
Mark dives into strategies to build confidence, develop emotional control, and embrace a warrior mindset for personal growth.
He also discusses insights from his latest book, Uncommon, which offers readers a pathway to greater resilience and purpose.
In this interview, you’ll learn . . .
How to build emotional control and overcome self-doubt
The power of intuition in decision-making and personal growth
Practical daily habits to improve focus, clarity, and resilience
Methods for breaking negative thought patterns and finding purpose
Tips for blending mindfulness and discipline in daily life
And more . . .
So, if you're ready to unlock your warrior mindset and gain tools for navigating life’s challenges, click play and join the conversation.
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Timestamps:
(07:58) Thoughts on individualism
(10:23) Aligning heart & mind
(19:00) Turning intuition into conviction
(33:06) Using drugs for spiritual insight
(40:16) Role of intuition
(51:02) Managing emotions
(58:53) Past life trauma's impact on present
(01:00:51) Understanding metacognition
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Mentioned on the Show:
In this episode, I discuss strength loss during cutting, how to train with lower back injuries, the ideal body fat percentage for health, nutrition strategies, and lots more.
As always, these questions come directly from my Instagram followers, who take advantage of my weekly Q&As in my stories.
If you have a question you're dying to have answered, make sure you follow me on Instagram (@muscleforlifefitness) and look out for the Q&A posts. Your question might just make it into a podcast episode!
If you like this type of episode, let me know. Send me an email ([email protected]) or direct message me on Instagram. And if you don’t like it, let me know that too or how you think it could be better.
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Timestamps:
(05:41) Communism opinion
(07:26) Regression during a cut
(10:46) Lower back injury
(13:22) Body fat percentage
(14:49) Strength training age limit
(19:50) Daily meal plan
(25:58) Front squat form
(27:03) Reverse dieting
(29:15) Agility after 50
(30:08) Hack squat machine
(31:24) Healthcare system
(32:35) Winter appetite
(33:23) Creatine supplement
(35:19) Bicep injury update
(36:05) EMFs from devices
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Mentioned on the Show:
In this episode, I talk with Michael, who experienced a life-changing transformation through Legion's coaching service. Michael had always been active, but it wasn't until he hit 245 pounds that he decided to go all in on improving his fitness.
He started following the Bigger Leaner Stronger principles and quickly saw results, but signing up for Legion’s Body Transformation Coaching took it to the next level. With guidance on nutrition, training, and mindset, Michael went from 244 to 214 pounds in a few short months, achieving more than he thought possible.
In this podcast, Michael shares insights into his remarkable journey, including the challenges he faced and overcame. He discusses the importance of expert guidance in optimizing his nutrition and training, and how this led to significant improvements in his overall health.
Michael also reveals the unexpected benefits of his transformation, from increased energy levels to a more positive outlook on life.
Tune in to hear Michael's inspiring story and learn how dedication, combined with professional coaching, can help you transform your body and your life.
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Timestamps:
(06:15) Previous fitness journey
(09:38) Previous weight lifting
(10:08) Mindset and goals
(19:36) Major diet shifts
(26:21) Training routine
(33:34) Cardio routine
(38:19) Supplements
(46:28) Future goals
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Mentioned on the Show:
What motivates young people? How can we help young adults boost their confidence and self-esteem?
In this interview, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Dr. David Yeager, a leading behavioral scientist at the University of Texas at Austin, who specializes in youth motivation. He shares insights on the psychological traits of young people, how motivation evolves with age, and practical strategies to help them thrive.
Dr. Yeager also discusses his recently released book, 10 to 25: The Science of Motivating Young People, which provides ground breaking insights into effectively engaging and supporting young adults.
In this interview, you’ll learn . . .
The importance of social status and respect in youth motivation
Balancing high standards with strong support for optimal growth
Reframing stress for better performance and success
Essential mindsets for parents, mentors, and educators to support young people
And more . . .
So, if you're interested in practical strategies for engaging and motivating young minds, click play and join the conversation.
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Timestamps:
(06:22) Kid's psychological peculiarities
(09:38) Importance of status
(13:42) Early social experiences
(18:28) Mindsets of young people
(26:43) Applying the mentor mindset
(32:18) Skill improvement through mentorship
(38:47) Stress management
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Mentioned on the Show:
10 to 25: The Science of Motivating Young People
In this episode, I discuss the benefits of fasted training for muscle growth, the pros and cons of aggressive dieting, optimal leg day frequency, and lots more.
As always, these questions come directly from my Instagram followers, who take advantage of my weekly Q&As in my stories.
If you have a question you're dying to have answered, make sure you follow me on Instagram (@muscleforlifefitness) and look out for the Q&A posts. Your question might just make it into a podcast episode!
If you like this type of episode, let me know. Send me an email ([email protected]) or direct message me on Instagram. And if you don’t like it, let me know that too or how you think it could be better.
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Timestamps:
(03:06) Russo-Ukrainian conflict opinion
(04:09) Hydrogen water benefits
(05:16) Sea moss supplements
(05:41) Fasted training and hypertrophy
(07:32) Thoughts on Vivek Ramaswamy
(08:58) Bench press form
(09:30) Calorie deficit strategies
(17:26) Using belts for lifts
(18:48) Ozempic thoughts
(21:58) Multiple leg days benefits
(24:33) Elevated heels for squats
(25:48) Minimalist program and arms
(27:56) BPC 157 safety
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Mentioned on the Show:
Are you passionate about tennis, golf, or martial arts, but hesitant to spend time lifting weights?
In this episode, I welcome back Dr. Andy Galpin. He reveals why recreational athletes should embrace strength training and how it can dramatically improve your game. From preventing injuries to enhancing your performance on the court or course, Dr. Galpin shares practical tips on integrating weightlifting into your routine without sacrificing the sports you love.
As a professor of Kinesiology at California State University, Fullerton, and co-director of the Center for Sport Performance, Dr. Galpin is a leading expert in muscle physiology and human performance. He has extensive experience working with a diverse range of elite athletes across combat sports, team sports, individual sports, and military personnel, including many at the very top of their respective fields.
In this interview, you'll learn . . .
And more . . .
So, if you want to understand how strength training can help improve your athletic performance and overall health click play and join the conversation.
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Timestamps:
(11:18) Decision-making pyramid
(17:10) Sleep optimization
(24:08) Weightlifting benefits for recreational athletes
(27:20) Short-term effects of weightlifting
(33:27) Faster recovery
(37:13) Performance benefits
(46:50) Programming tips
(50:05) Movement patterns
(52:22) Injury vs. performance
(55:07) Recovery philosophy
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Mentioned on the Show:
The Little Black Book of Workout Motivation
What's the secret to becoming a super communicator? How can you navigate the three layers of conversation? And how is technology changing the way we communicate?
In this episode, I sit down with Charles Duhigg, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author of the bestselling book Super Communicators: How to Unlock the Secret Language of Connection. Charles explains the keys to effective communication and how we can all improve our ability to connect with others, at home or in the office.
In this interview, you'll learn . . .
And more . . .
So, if you want to enhance your communication skills and build stronger connections in both your personal and professional life, click play and join the conversation.
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Timestamps:
(04:02) Why did you choose "Super Communicators" as the title of your book?
(07:30) What skills are essential for becoming a super communicator?
(08:34) Can you explain the three layers of conversation: practical, emotional, and social?
(10:56) What is an effective way to transition from an emotional conversation to a practical one?
(14:14) What advice do you have for better managing our emotions?
(20:47) How does storytelling fit into the framework of super communication?
(25:45) How is technology shaping the way people communicate?
(31:28) Are there specific types of conversations that should be avoided over email?
(35:36) Is it important to adapt to the mood of the conversation?
(36:48) What tips do you have for communicating with new people?
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Mentioned on the Show:
Supercommunicators: How to Unlock the Secret Language of Connection
The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do, and How to Change
In this episode, I discuss how to improve barbell row strength, strategies for supersetting, my new book release, and lots more.
As always, these questions come directly from my Instagram followers, who take advantage of my weekly Q&As in my stories.
If you have a question you're dying to have answered, make sure you follow me on Instagram (@muscleforlifefitness) and look out for the Q&A posts. Your question might just make it into a podcast episode!
If you like this type of episode, let me know. Send me an email ([email protected]) or direct message me on Instagram. And if you don’t like it, let me know that too or how you think it could be better. ****
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Timestamps:
(4:12) When is the next book coming out?
(06:30) Tips for improving barbell row strength?
(07:35) Is lifting 5 times per week better than 4 for results?
(08:34) Is the deadlift primarily a back or leg exercise?
(10:21) Should cardio be cut out during a clean bulk?
(11:40) Thoughts on mouth taping and jaw exercisers?
(13:00) Is rucking effective for cardio and muscle strength?
(14:32) Are supersets with opposing muscle groups beneficial?
(19:10) Top tips for improving sleep quality?
(26:48) How does the hip thrust complement deadlift performance?
(27:12) Strategies for politely ending gym conversations between sets?
(29:16) Is daily red meat consumption harmful?
(30:12) After a deload week, should I return to heavier weights or maintain?
(30:38) Is the absence of a burning sensation during heavy lifts detrimental to hypertrophy?
(32:05) Is additional cardio necessary if I already log thousands of steps at work?
(32:53) Why recommend bulking before cutting for skinny-fat individuals?
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Mentioned on the Show:
What’s the secret to building a successful business that lasts? How do you overcome the common challenges that entrepreneurs face? And what steps can you take to ensure your business continues to grow and thrive?
In this episode, I sit down with Adam Schafer, a prominent figure in the fitness industry with more than 15 years of experience. Starting as a personal trainer, Adam co-founded Mind Pump, the #1 rated fitness podcast on Apple with over 2 million downloads per month. Adam delves into the challenges entrepreneurs face and how to turn setbacks into opportunities for growth, offering practical advice on building a thriving business in the competitive world of health and fitness.
In this interview, you’ll learn . . .
And more . . .
So, if you want to understand how to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship and build a successful business, click play and join the conversation.
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Timestamps:
(04:41) Is inconsistency in friendships a personal trait or a byproduct of success?
(09:48) Will you ever consider slowing down in your business pursuits?
(12:42) In the future, how will you balance financial achievements with non-financial achievements?
(24:34) How do you evaluate the significance and magnitude of your goals?
(26:24) Can you share more about the new service you launched for fitness professionals?
(40:24) What lessons have you learned from hiring the wrong people in business?
(50:12) How can you transform past mistakes into valuable lessons for future growth?
(59:34) How can you build friendships with successful people even if you don’t feel successful yourself?
(01:13:25) How can surrounding yourself with uplifting individuals lead to greater success and personal growth?
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Mentioned on the Show:
The Little Black Book of Workout Motivation
In this episode, I talk with Martin, who achieved remarkable results with Legion’s body transformation coaching service.
Martin had always been interested in fitness but struggled with gaining weight and building muscle. Running his own business made it challenging to find time for consistent workouts. Years ago, he discovered my book Bigger Leaner Stronger, which introduced him to effective training concepts. While he saw some progress, he felt he could achieve even better results and decided to sign up for Legion coaching.
With his coach's guidance, Martin learned to balance his work schedule with a structured fitness plan. Through this process, he lost 9 pounds, reduced his body fat by 6%, and trimmed 2 inches off his waist, all while increasing his overall strength and muscle mass.
In this podcast, Martin shares valuable insights into staying consistent, the importance of accountability, and navigating challenges. His story highlights how following straightforward, evidence-based advice can lead to impressive results.
Tune in to hear Martin’s story and discover how expert coaching and dedication can transform your body and life.
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Timestamps:
(5:21) What were your before and after results like?
(12:14) How did you discover my work, and what was your situation before that?
(16:05) What key mistakes did the coaching program help you correct?
(21:38) How was your meal plan structured, and what types of foods did it include?
(33:09) Did you incorporate cheat meals into your diet plan?
(38:52) What did your training program look like, and how did it evolve?
(45:37) Can you describe your experience with deadlifting injuries and switching to the hex bar?
(54:07) What challenges did you face during the training process, if any?
(56:45) Which exercises became your favorites during the program?
(01:04:10) Did you use any supplements as part of your routine?
(1:20:15) What are your thoughts on the potential risks associated with fish oil supplements?
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Mentioned on the Show:
Legion Body Transformation Coaching
The Actor's Career Compass Podcast
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