Do You Even Lift Bro?

This episode centers around Michael and Kyle reflecting on the impact of their recent Coop interview, the rise of smart fitness equipment like the VOLTRA, and how innovation is reshaping home gyms. They also explore personal fitness journeys—Kyle's bodybuilding transformation and Michael's experiments with "sugar fasting"—and discuss current controversies and trends in the home gym community.

Cooper Mitchell joins Mike and Kyle for a wide-ranging conversation on the evolution of home gyms, the rise of digital resistance technology, and the power of community in the fitness world. They share personal stories about moving and setting up gym equipment, balancing traditional tools with modern innovations, and managing work-life balance while building passion-driven businesses. The discussion also dives into the importance of transparency in the fitness industry, lessons learned from competitors, and the growing role of online communities. Coop offers insights on the value of Facebook groups, the future of podcasting, and highlights some of the most innovative companies shaping the space.

In this episode, Kyle and Michael chat with Rory Ellis, founder of Rorman Strength. Rory shares his journey from being a musician in metal bands to discovering weightlifting during his time in the military. He talks about what led him to start a home gym and eventually create the Megalith handles. Rory discusses the challenges of building a business in the fitness industry, including manufacturing hurdles and potential partnerships.

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Kyle talks about his time at the Arnold Expo, how it's changed over the years, and the cool people he met. They also chat about upcoming travel and exciting events on the horizon. The conversation shifts to the struggles of content creation—handling criticism, staying consistent, and keeping things real.They bring on guest Sam Presley, who shares his journey from being a touring musician to becoming a key part of the Garage Gym Reviews team. They cover everything from home renovations and personal gym setups to aging, fitness, and picking the right equipment for different users.The hosts also dive into how the GGR team operates, their approach to testing gear, and how the brand grew from a small hobby to a big player in the fitness space. They talk about the challenges of fast growth, partnering with Pillar 4, and why maintaining trust with their audience is so important. Wrapping up, they reflect on lessons learned, the value of hard work, and their vision for the future.

Kyle and Michael welcome fitness entrepreneur Emily Samuel. Emily shares her journey from training celebrities to launching the Booty Box, tackling manufacturing challenges, partnering with Fringe Sport, and highlighting the untapped potential of female-focused fitness products.Follow BootyBox on IG: https://www.instagram.com/bootyboxplatform/Follow Emily on IG: https://www.instagram.com/emilyy_fitness/

In this conversation, Kyle discusses his recent transformation of his garage from a woodworking space to a dedicated gym area. He shares insights on the arrival of new gym equipment, particularly from Temple of Gainz, and reflects on the delivery experiences, including a memorable encounter with a helpful driver. The discussion also touches on the upgrades of the Dane 2.0 machine, initial impressions of the new selectorized machines, and the evolution of home gym equipment. Additionally, they delve into experiences with selling gym equipment on Facebook Marketplace, highlighting the challenges and frustrations that can arise. In this conversation, Mike and Kyle discuss the intricacies of selling items online, particularly on Facebook Marketplace, and the challenges of engaging with followers on social media. The discussion transitions into the topic of building the ultimate home gym, where both speakers share their dream equipment lists and considerations for gym design. They also touch on upcoming events, including HomeGymCon, and the excitement of future guests on the podcast.Episode Chapters00:00 Garage Transformation: From Woodworking to Gym Space03:10 New Equipment Arrival: The Temple of Gains Machines05:52 Delivery Experiences: The Good, The Bad, and The Weird09:06 Dane 2.0: A Closer Look at Upgrades11:48 Initial Impressions: Selectorized Machines in Action15:04 The Evolution of Home Gym Equipment17:46 Marketplace Experiences: The Trials of Selling Equipment25:39 Navigating the Challenges of Online Selling27:31 Engaging with Followers and Managing Expectations34:56 Building the Ultimate Home Gym43:32 Dream Equipment for a Home Gym50:52 Upcoming Events and Future GuestsFollow Michael on IGFollow Kyle on IGMichael on YouTubeFollow Kyle on YouTube

In this conversation, Michael and Kyle welcome Lindsay Scheele, who shares how she came to join the team at Garage Gym Reviews. Lindsay talk's about the 6-month audition process, her approach to reviews and FOMO from not having attended HomeGymCon yet.

Description In this conversation, Mike and Kyle discuss various topics ranging from personal fitness goals to the importance of building a home gym. They share their experiences with Dry January, the challenges of maintaining fitness routines, and the resources available for those looking to start or expand their home gym. The conversation emphasizes the significance of community support, the right equipment choices, and the journey towards achieving fitness goals. Matthew Porter joins to play a game of building the best home gym for $2000. They discuss the intricacies of building a home gym, focusing on budget-friendly equipment purchases, safety during transactions, and creative DIY solutions. They share personal anecdotes about their experiences in the fitness community, including the challenges and triumphs of setting up a gym, as well as the importance of knowing local resources and marketplaces. Matthew also shares insights into his journey in the fitness space, including his product development and experiences at HomeGymCon.

Join Kyle and Michael as they dive into the evolution of home gym tech and industry trends! Starting with an in-depth look at smart LED lighting solutions (comparing Govee, Philips Hue, and budget options), the conversation explores how to level up your gym's ambiance without breaking the bank. Get insider perspectives on major industry moves, from REP Fitness's strategic partnerships to emerging players shaking up the market.

Description In this conversation, Kyle and Michael discuss various topics ranging from personal reflections on their podcasting journey, parenting challenges, and home gym setups to creative content creation and the unique approach of their guest, Clay Cooper, known as Discovery Deadlift. They explore the logistics of filming in beautiful outdoor locations, the equipment used, and the importance of community in building a following. Clay shares insights about his Scottish heritage and the experiences that shaped his content creation journey. In this engaging conversation, Clay Cooper shares his experiences deadlifting in Scotland, the inception of his social media presence as Discovery Deadlift, and how he navigates the challenges of feedback and anxiety in the fitness community. He discusses the balance between outdoor lifting and gym life, the importance of choosing the right equipment for outdoor settings, and the significance of sponsorships that align with his values. Clay also reflects on his future plans for content evolution, emphasizing the importance of family and connection in his journey. Outline (0:00) Podcasting and Content Creation Enthusiasm (1:59) Reflections on Previous Episodes and Humor (4:38) Parenting Challenges and Food Choices (7:30) Home Gym Setup and Training (10:25) Proposition for a Video Collaboration (16:19) Introduction to Clay Cooper and Unique Content (18:44) Traveling and Balancing Life (22:53) The Joy of Filming and Family Involvement (26:24) Cinematic Lifting: The Art of Visual Storytelling (28:04) The Equipment Behind the Scenes: Filming with Family (30:13) Logistics of Lifting: How to Carry Heavy Weights (32:37) Exploring New Locations: The Adventure of Discovery (36:01) Community Connections: Collaborating with Local Lifters (37:23) Scottish Heritage: A Personal Connection to Lifting (41:33) The Birth of Discovery Deadlift: From Concept to Community (45:35) Navigating Feedback: The Balance of Public Perception (48:32) Training Spaces: Balancing Home and Nature (53:25) Innovative Equipment and Training Experiences (55:57) Real-World Physical Literacy and Injury Prevention (58:23) Navigating Sponsorships and Brand Partnerships (1:01:48) Future Aspirations and Content Evolution (1:06:28) The Importance of Family in Content Creation (1:13:10) Exploring New Destinations and Cultural Experiences

Description In this episode, Kyle and Michael chat with Tanner Baird from Massenomics about home gyms, powerlifting, and building a gym community. Tanner talks about how Massenomics started as a group of friends sharing gym equipment and grew into a unique gym that's part home gym and part commercial space. He also shares how Massenomics creates content, including gym equipment reviews and home gym tours, and explains how he balances working a full-time job, being a dad, and running Massenomics. Outline (0:00) Introduction and Background (5:56) Evolution of Massonomics Content (12:08) Winter Garage Gym Challenges (14:54) Local Celebrity Status and Community Interaction (17:57) Current Issues in Gym Equipment Supply (20:48) Conclusion and Future Plans (27:11) Customer Experience and Product Quality (30:37) Comparing Power Bars: Value vs. Performance (32:03) Daily Drivers: Choosing the Right Equipment (38:55) Balancing Full-Time Work and Content Creation (45:44) The Gym's Unique Membership Approach (51:42) Confrontation and Community in Gym Culture (53:10) Memorable Podcast Guests and Experiences (56:53) Realistic Expectations in Podcasting (59:50) Influences and Inspirations in Podcasting (1:02:49) Community Building and Support (1:05:48) Upcoming Events and Personal Connections (1:09:54) The Power of Podcasting and Recommendations (1:18:18) The Heart of Home Gym Con (1:19:13) Building Real Friendships (1:20:01) Tattoo Inspirations and Merchandise (1:21:22) Choosing the Right Shirt Blanks (1:24:08) Customer Service and Quality Control (1:26:30) The Competitive Spirit in Family (1:30:45) Transformative Fitness Journeys (1:40:21) Meal Prep and Breakfast Philosophy (1:41:51) The Importance of Breakfast in Weight Gain (1:43:24) Breakfast Buffets and Culinary Experiences (1:44:17) Nicotine Use and Travel Tips (1:47:21) Partnership Dynamics in Content Creation (1:51:31) The Art of Sharing Hotel Rooms (1:54:16) Future Plans and Content Growth Follow ⁠⁠⁠Michael on IG⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Kyle on IG⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Michael on YouTube⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Kyle on YouTube⁠ ⁠Massenomics Website

Description In this engaging conversation, Mark, also known as Deadliest Lift, shares his journey into weightlifting, home gyms, and the creative side of his online presence. Reflecting on his experiences at HomeGymCon, he discusses his unique lifting techniques, the philosophy behind ego lifting, and the importance of community in the fitness world. Alongside Mike and Kyle, Mark explores ego lifting as an artistic expression, the influence of genetics on strength, and the impact of social media on lifting communities, while also highlighting the diversity of approaches within the lifting subculture. He delves into his experiences with the Jefferson deadlift, the challenges of creating fitness content, and his academic background in microbiology. Mark also shares his affiliation with Rascal Apparel, addresses audience questions with humor, and opens up about his injuries and recovery. The conversation wraps up with Mark discussing his written work, future plans, and aspirations, offering an inspiring and creative perspective for fitness enthusiasts. Outline 00:00 Introduction to Mark and Home Gym Con 03:01 Mark's Weightlifting Journey and Home Gym Setup 06:08 Unique Lifting Techniques and Creative Approaches 08:58 Community and Connections at Home Gym Con 11:46 The Evolution of Mark's Online Presence 14:57 The Philosophy Behind Ego Lifting 17:59 Creativity in Weightlifting and Future Aspirations 20:20 The Art of Ego Lifting 22:45 Discovering Strength and Genetic Potential 26:56 Navigating Online Hate and Confrontation 30:02 The Evolution of Social Media and Lifting Communities 39:04 The Subcultures of Lifting and Their Unique Niches 43:06 Future Goals and Aspirations in Lifting 45:43 The Jefferson Deadlift Experience 47:16 The Challenge of Content Creation 49:53 Mark's Academic and Professional Background 52:26 Affiliation with Rascal Apparel 55:18 Audience Questions and Lighthearted Banter 01:01:20 Injuries and Recovery in Lifting 01:04:21 Performance Enhancing Drugs and Health 01:08:08 Final Thoughts and Future Plans Follow ⁠⁠Michael on IG⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Kyle on IG⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Michael on YouTube⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Kyle on YouTube @deadliestlift on IG

Description In this conversation, Kyle and Mike discuss Kyle's recent move and the challenges of setting up a new home gym. They share insights on the emotional and physical toll of downsizing, the importance of community connections through home gym equipment, and the excitement of new innovations in the fitness space. The discussion also touches on the stress of moving heavy equipment and the adjustments required in a new training environment. In this conversation, they touch on various themes related to fitness equipment innovations, home gym trends, and the dynamics of podcasting. The discussion covers the excitement around new fitness products, the importance of community engagement in the home gym space, and practical tips for moving a home gym. The episode concludes with insights on innovative ideas and collaboration within the fitness community. Outline (0:00) Setting Up the New Space (2:55) The Challenges of Moving and Downsizing (6:11) Community Connections Through Home Gym Equipment (8:59) Navigating the Stress of Moving Heavy Equipment (11:47) The Emotional Toll of Letting Go (15:07) Training and Adjusting to a New Gym Environment (18:14) Keeping Up with Home Gym Trends (20:56) Exciting New Equipment Innovations (28:56) Exploring New Fitness Equipment Innovations (32:49) Home Gym Trends and Community Engagement (36:07) Moving a Home Gym: Tips and Strategies (43:36) Podcasting Dynamics: Experimenting with Guests (52:07) Creative Contributions to Home Gym Con (54:55) Innovative Ideas and Community Collaboration Follow ⁠Michael on IG⁠ ⁠Kyle on IG⁠ ⁠Michael on YouTube⁠ ⁠Kyle on YouTube

Description In this in-depth conversation, host Michael sits down with Josh Kreifels, a master-level registered dietitian and founder of Kreifwell, to explore the intersection of metabolic health, modern wellness, and sustainable lifestyle changes. Josh shares his journey from college baseball player to fitness professional, describing how his approach evolved from traditional "bro science" to a more holistic understanding of health.The episode dives deep into what it means to be metabolically healthy - a state achieved by only 6% of the population. Josh explains how proper nutrition, strength training, and quality sleep form the foundation of metabolic health, while also discussing often-overlooked factors like environmental toxins and clothing materials. Outline (0:00) Introduction to Josh Kreifels and Cruyff Well( 4:10) Josh's Athletic Background and Transition to Nutrition (10:20) The Importance of Metabolic Health (24:26) Understanding Metabolic Health and Its Implications (35:18) Practical Steps to Improve Metabolic Health (36:11) Micronutrient Density and Weight Management (39:55) The Importance of Protein and Strength Training (44:38) Balancing Quality Food Choices and Budget (56:02) Environmental Factors in Health and Nutrition (1:07:52) Toxicity Awareness and Practical Changes (1:12:45) The Impact of Heat and Chemicals on Health (1:15:06) Men's Health: Blind Spots and the Killer Mentality (1:20:24) Alcohol Consumption and Its Effects on Men's Health (1:25:44) Training Intensity: Finding the Right Balance (1:28:38) Supplements: What Works and What to Consider (1:36:49) Home Gym Aspirations and Practical Considerations Follow Follow Josh on IG: https://www.instagram.com/thekreifels Visit Josh's Website: https://www.kreifwell.com/ Follow Michael on IG: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/nicelikemike__/⁠ Follow Kyle on IG: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/kaizendiygym⁠ Follow Michael on YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4JsmAFsAGqRpyWMNxL15Qw⁠ Follow Kyle on YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFGCfbYPyFpITa0mbwbTmhA

Description In this episode of the "Do You Even Lift Bro" podcast, host Michael interviews Jake Jaworski, the founder of Garage Gym Experiment and Home Gym Con. They discuss Jake's journey from a college athlete whose football career was cut short due to injuries, to becoming a significant figure in the home gym community. The conversation explores the challenges and successes of launching Home Gym Con, a convention aimed at uniting home gym enthusiasts and equipment manufacturers. Jake emphasizes the rewarding experience of fostering community connections and encourages listeners to attend future events. They also touch on plans for HomeGymCon's continued expansion and its impact on the fitness industry.

Description In this episode, Kyle and Michael interview Adam Yousfi, a product designer specializing in strength equipment. Adam shares his journey from IT to designing gym equipment, his collaborations with Bells of Steel and Fringe Sport, and insights into the evolution of home gym equipment. The conversation delves into the differences between commercial and home gym equipment, the importance of networking in the fitness industry, and the challenges of intellectual property in design. Adam also teases upcoming projects with Bells of Steel and FRINGE Sports and reflects on his proudest achievements in equipment design. Get in touch with Adam: https://www.instagram.com/adamy0usfi/

Outline (0:00) The PRX video update (3:22) Exploring 3D printing (8:59) The challenges of downsizing a home gym (21:06) Home Gym Con anticipation (30:11) Gym Equipment Hoarding (37:13) The Ethics of Copying Designs (55:00) Inviting Guests to the Podcast

Summary Kyle and Michael discuss their experience visiting PRX and the activities they did, including visiting a brewery, going wake surfing, and meeting the PRX team. They talk about the cool artwork at the brewery and their love for unique merchandise. They also share their wake surfing experiences, with Kyle impressing everyone and Jake struggling to stay on the board. They discuss the target demographic of PRX and the potential for expanding their customer base. They also mention the Sensory RX project, a heavy-duty playset for children with sensory needs. During the conversation, Kyle discussed his visit to PRX Performance in Fargo, North Dakota. He mentioned that PRX Performance is open to the public and sells their products locally. Kyle also described his tour of PRX's manufacturing facility, highlighting the impressive size and organization of their warehouse. He mentioned seeing the automated machines used in the manufacturing process, including laser cutting and robotic welding. Kyle also mentioned the positive impression he had of PRX as a company that takes care of its employees and is involved in the community. The conversation also touched on the resolution of the controversy between Kyle and PRX, with both parties expressing a desire to move forward and form a partnership. Additionally, Kyle mentioned Darko Lifting's products being listed on Rogue Fitness' website and discussed his upcoming move and the need to downsize his gym equipment. Overview (0:00) Exploring the Brewery and Artwork (6:27) Impressive Wake Surfing Skills (13:07) Britton's Pro Wake Surfing (23:36) Expanding the Target Demographic (30:53) Introducing Sensory RX (33:54) Tour of the Manufacturing Facility (37:06) Positive Impressions of PRX (41:48) Moving Towards a Partnership (53:57) Darko Lifting on Rogue Fitness (1:00:56) Preparing for a Move

Overview In this conversation, Kyle and Michael discuss their plans to resolve the Jammergate situation by meeting in person in Fargo. They joke about having a boxing match to settle their differences and plan to document their trip and visit PRX. They also talk about Amazon Prime Day and the offers they have received from Major Fitness to partner with them. Kyle shares his negative experience with the company and his reluctance to work with them. They also discuss the challenges and considerations of partnering with a brand and creating content in exchange for free equipment. They talk about the challenges of budgeting for a gym, organizing events like the Garage Gym Games, and the process of moving and downsizing a gym. They also share their thoughts on gym tour videos, the Rogue Rhino, garage gyms, and the underrated experience of attending HomeGymCon.

Summary In this episode, Kyle and Michael dive into the latest developments in the PRx controversy, dubbed "Jammergate." The conversation starts with a recap of the timeline, highlighting key events and responses from PRX. Kyle shares insights from his multiple discussions with PRx's leadership, expressing optimism about finding a collaborative resolution. The hosts emphasize the importance of community support and the potential for positive outcomes. They also touch on the impact of Coop's video from GarageGymReviews, which reignited discussions and accelerated the negotiation process with PRx. The episode moves on to lighter topics, including home gym equipment hacks, space-saving tips, and anticipation for HomeGymCon ‘25.

Overview In this episode, Kyle and Michael discuss the turmoil caused by PRx's recent actions in the home gym equipment space, particularly focusing on the controversy surrounding PRx's Halo Arms and their impact on smaller innovators like Vendetta and GymPin. Initially hopeful about a constructive response from PRx, the duo discusses how PRx's eventual statement fell flat, feeling corporate and insincere. They also cover the community's reaction and the broader implications of patenting in the gym equipment industry.

Overview In this episode hosts Kyle and Michael dive deep into the world of home gyms, exploring the latest trends and personal experiences with fitness equipment. They discuss their recent acquisitions from Home Gym Con, where Kyle returned with an impressive haul including two ATX pieces, a Bells of Steel rack, and a Fringe Osprey rack. The conversation takes a detailed turn into the setup challenges and solutions, highlighting Kyle's inventive approach to fitting new equipment into his space. Michael shares his enthusiasm and slight envy of Kyle's new gear, sparking a broader discussion about gym equipment investments and the joys of upgrading a home gym setup. Chapters (0:00 Recent Gym Equipment Purchases and Upgrades) (2:28) Challenges in Setting Up the Dane (5:11) The Aries 2.0 and Discount for 1.0 Owners (8:01) The Importance of Good Customer Service (12:50) Difficulties of Selling Gym Equipment Online (24:02) The Rise of Resellers and the Challenges of Selling Equipment (32:16) The Impact of Home Gym Con 2022 and Future Plans (36:43) Inspiration for Future Content Creation (41:36) Reigniting Excitement for Working Out and Setting Fitness Goals (45:03) The Positive Feedback and Increased Exposure from HomeGymCon

Overview Home Gym Con was a fantastic weekend filled with camaraderie and excitement. The highlight of the event was the people, with attendees and vendors alike expressing their love for the home gym community. The scale of the event was also impressive, with a significant increase in vendors and attendees compared to the previous year. ATX Equipment stood out as a major contender, with their unique and well-engineered equipment making a big impression. Mayhem's fluorescent flecks plates and other plates also caught attention for their aesthetic appeal. The event provided an opportunity for vendors to connect with the community and gain exposure, emphasizing the importance of engagement and immersion in the home gym community. Home Gym Con 2025 is set to take place in Louisville, Kentucky, with a larger venue and more accessibility. The event has grown significantly since its inception and continues to attract both vendors and attendees. Some big vendors were unable to attend this year, including Sorinex, Bulletproof Fitness, and Giant Lifting. Coop from Garage Gym Reviews also did not attend, sparking some controversy and discussion within the community. The importance of collaboration and support among content creators was emphasized, and the overall experience of Home Gym Con was highly positive and exciting. Takeaways: Community Spirit: The hosts emphasize the importance of the people and community at HomeGymCon, noting that many attendees felt the best part of the event was the sense of camaraderie. Impressive Equipment: The hosts highlight ATX's equipment as particularly innovative and well-engineered, indicating that the company will be a major contender in the US market. Event Scale: The size and scale of this year's event exceeded the hosts' expectations, with more vendors and people in attendance, creating a busy but exciting atmosphere. Health and Wellness: The hosts note the importance of maintaining adequate nutrition and hydration during events, as they experienced fatigue and exhaustion due to neglecting these aspects. Future Plans: The hosts are excited about the future of HomeGymCon, particularly with its next venue being more accessible, and encourage others to attend. Episode Outline: 00:00 The Power of Community 11:55 ATX Equipment: A Major Contender 26:55 Engagement and Immersion: Keys to Success 27:52 Home Gym Con 2025: Bigger Venue, Better Accessibility 32:49 Notable Absences: Vendors and Coop

Summary The podcast episode features a lively discussion between Kyle and Michael, focusing on various aspects of the fitness industry, particularly the nuances of brand management and marketing strategies within niche markets like fitness expos. The conversation revolves around a specific incident involving REP Fitness, which faced consequences for not obtaining permission to use Arnold Expo's branding on their merchandise. This led to a broader discussion on the importance of adhering to brand guidelines and the potential financial implications of such oversights. They also touched on upcoming events like HomeGymCon and shared their personal experiences and insights on product reviews and the dynamics of community engagement within the fitness industry. Outline 00:00 Controversy and Exclusion: Rep Fitness at the Arnold Expo 07:48 Possibility of Participation: Strongman and Grip Competitions 20:22 The Future of Kabuki Strength 26:38 Favorite Cable Attachments for a Cable Tower Setup 32:52 Mount Rushmore of Cable Attachments 39:13 Angles90 Handles: Love or Hate? 48:07 The Frustration with Affiliate Links 54:15 DIY Pieces That Should Be Brought to Market Follow Michael on IG: https://www.instagram.com/nicelikemike__/ Follow Kyle on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFGCfbYPyFpITa0mbwbTmhA Follow Kyle on IG: https://www.instagram.com/kaizendiygym

Summary The conversation covers the announcement of Rep Ares V2, the frustration of Rep Ares V1 owners, Rep's approach to new product releases, the use of affiliate links by influencers, the controversy between Garage Gym Reviews and The Strength Co, and the influx of Chinese equipment manufacturers in the home gym market. We also cover topics such as buying knockoff products, supporting American companies, the ethics of buying knockoffs, controversy over GymPin's product and upgrading equipment. Takeaways Rep's announcement of Ares V2 has generated excitement and anticipation, but also frustration among recent buyers of the Ares V1. Rep's approach to new product releases has varied, with some products being teased out and others being announced without warning. The use of affiliate links by influencers can feel spammy and may not always align with the best interests of the consumer. The controversy between Garage Gym Reviews and The Strength Co highlights the influence of affiliate links in product recommendations. The home gym market is seeing an influx of Chinese equipment manufacturers, which can lead to a flooded market and potential issues with quality and originality.  Buying knockoff products can be tempting due to their lower prices, but it raises ethical questions about supporting the original creators and American companies. The home gym community is divided on the issue, with some prioritizing cost savings and others valuing supporting the originators. The availability of knockoff products on platforms like Alibaba makes it difficult for consumers to differentiate between genuine and counterfeit items. Upgrading equipment can be a personal choice driven by aesthetics, functionality, or a desire for change. Chapters 00:00 Rep Ares V2 Announcement 02:48 Disgruntled Rep Aries V1 Owners 06:33 Rep's Approach to New Product Releases 08:51 Affiliate Links and Influencers 10:46 Garage Gym Reviews and The Strength Co Controversy 15:34 Chinese Equipment Manufacturers and Flooded Market 36:30 Supporting American Companies 39:35 The Ethics of Buying Knockoffs 42:52 Controversy Over Mammoth Belt Squat Kickstand 45:13 Jim Pin's Competing Product 50:39 Upgrading Equipment 55:47 New Equipment Purchases 01:04:09 Live Episode at Home Gym Con Follow Follow Michael on IG: https://www.instagram.com/nicelikemike__/ Follow Kyle on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFGCfbYPyFpITa0mbwbTmhA Follow Kyle on IG: https://www.instagram.com/kaizendiygym

Episode Outline (00:00) Introduction and Personal Updates (02:47) Benefits of Outdoor Activities (06:10) Balancing Content Creation and Training (08:53) Thoughts on Content Creation (13:37) Hot Takes and Questions from the Community (23:45) New Product Debuts at Home Gym Con (26:08) Exciting and Innovative Equipment (30:01) Modular Storage System (33:19) Overcomplicating Lifting (39:18) Drama in the Home Gym Space (52:32) Drama with Steadfast Lifting (57:09) HomeGymCon Plans

*Use code dyelb to save on ⁠HomeGymCon Episode Outline (1:36) HomeGymCon Prep (4:40) Marketplace (13:43) Content in 2024 (21:40) Barbell Collections (40:05) Other Updates Follow Follow ⁠⁠@nicelikemike__⁠⁠ on IG Follow ⁠⁠Kyle⁠⁠ on YouTube Follow ⁠⁠Kyle⁠⁠ on Instagram

*Use code dyelb to save on HomeGymCon Episode Outline (0:00) Introduction and Return to Podcasting (3:00) Home Gym Con and Content Strategy (8:00) Challenges of Moving Home Gym (13:00) Dealing with a Flood (18:00) Challenges of Content Creation (20:00) Black Friday Equipment Purchases (25:00) Training and Goals (35:00) Training for Spartan Race (45:00) Holiday Plans and Content Creation (48:14) Capturing Memories and Content (51:01) Goals for the New Year (55:36) Looking Forward to Home Gym Con (56:05) Favorite Christmas Movies (59:55) Wrapping Up and Returning to Podcasting Follow Follow ⁠@nicelikemike__⁠ on IG Follow ⁠Kyle⁠ on YouTube Follow ⁠Kyle⁠ on Instagram

(Get Tickets Here for 2024 Here) Mike & Kyle chat about their HomeGymCon experiences. (0:00) Intro (4:07) Mike's Journey to HGC (8:44) Kyle's Journey (10:24) Prior Weekend Plans (22:52) Testing equipment for the first time (30:18) The Sadness After

Mike &  @KaizenDIYGym  chat Arnold, HomeGymCon, and make another big announcement!

Episode Outline (0:35) Attachment recommendations for the DIY rack (1:22) Ideal Physique (3:22) Cons of home gyms (5:34) Tutorial for a leg holder for the wall-mounted pulley to do lat pulldowns? (7:39) DIY sandbag that won't break? (9:04) How can I do a strong and comfortable hip thrust machine (+300kg) with a bar? (10:10) Any new DIYs that you want to make? (13:15) Biggest mistake while making something for the home gym? (16:20) Leg curls on a reverse hyper? (17:07) How long has Mike been growing his luscious locks? (18:35) Why does Mike squat? (21:05) Where did your rack kettlebell storage shelf go in your latest workout reel? Is it coming back? (22:19) 2023 training goals? (26:30) Dream piece of equipment if money & space are non-factors? Follow Follow @nicelikemike__ on IG Follow Kyle on YouTube Follow Kyle on Instagram

Episode Outline (0:20) Catching up on weather, dust, and more (5:11) Mike's gym updates (10:27) Pulley setup time (18:44) Pug Box (25:21) New gym equipment Follow Follow @nicelikemike__ on IG Follow Kyle on YouTube Follow Kyle on Instagram

*Use code DIY to save on HomeGymCon Episode Outline (0:26) Nice Like Mike's Move (7:00) The Rebuild (13:03) 2023 Check-In (20:16) HomeGymCon Follow Follow @nicelikemike__ on IG Follow Matt & Kyle on YouTube Follow Matt & Kyle on Instagram Subscribe to Knurled News

Episode Outline (1:23) What piece of home gym equipment would you recommend as a first upgrade over basics? (3:53) Can I get the Rogue Trolley without the lever arms (4:45) How do you do a DIY GHD with wood? (6:02) Trust your spouse with an equipment-related Christmas present purchase or buy yourself? (7:39) What is the GOAT Christmas cookie? (8:14) Favorite holiday food? (9:19) Any DIY projects you regret? (11:06) Favorite YouTube content to consume that isn't home gym related? (12:11) DIY equipment with the best ROI in your personal opinion? (belt squat, seal row, etc.) (14:12) Essential DIY tools? Do I need a drill press? (16:52) How sturdy are folding racks? (17:47) Wall-mounted/folding ghd (18:13) Got any good hacks for setting up glute bridges/hip thrusters? (18:41) How much of a boost do holiday sales give your affiliate commissions? (20:54) What equipment did you pick up during holiday sales? (23:05) Will you lift on Christmas Day? (24:05) Favorite Christmas movie? (26:37) Do you try to watch calories during the holidays or YOLO? (29:01) How you guys manage life and holidays and training! (30:48) Update on adapters! Compatibility with vendetta and other trolley arms, etc. (32:54) All wood creations you do, do you later do them in metal and sell them? (36:20) Matt creating products Follow Follow Matt & Kyle on YouTube Follow Matt & Kyle on Instagram Subscribe to Knurled News

Links Buffalo Bully Fab Website Matt's Review of the Bully Glyder Episode Outline (0:33) What is Buffalo Bully Fab? (1:06) More about Marc & getting into fabrication (3:14) Buying vs. Building (3:48) Where did the name come from? (4:39) Top product (7:47) What's in the works? (12:21) Second batch of pre-orders (14:09) Moving (17:32) Other Products (22:46) Dealing with copycats (23:29) Glyder update (25:36) What's next? (26:25) Giveaway!

Links: GymPin Website Follow Matt & Kyle on YouTube Follow Matt & Kyle on Instagram Subscribe to Knurled News Episode Outline: (0:45) More about GymPin (8:29) The Birth of the Adapters (10:11) GymPin Reaches Out (19:49) When are pre-orders expected to ship? (21:02) Do they work with Monster Lite 2.0 arms? (22:31) Do they work with 1.0 rogue arms? (24:22)When will titan adapters be ready? Rep? Bells? Fray? (25:32) Why are they so expensive? (31:10) Compatible with Vendetta Adapters? (32:30) Will they work with my rack that currently doesn't have jammer arms? (34:16) Why does shipping to US cost $50? (36:38) I am considering Rogue or Rep for the adapter, which would you get to work with Vendetta?

Episode Outline (0:40) DIY Power Rack Build (5:31) Matt's Update (12:20) Black Friday (18:52) Mutant Metals Handle (22:03) HomeGymCon Follow: Follow Matt & Kyle on YouTube Follow Matt & Kyle on Instagram Subscribe to Knurled News

Tristan Buttle joined Kyle on the pod to discuss: (0:24) Who is Tristan Buttle? (3:35) Ranting on social media (10:57) Commercial gyms (17:05) Home gyms in the UK (22:06) Michael Myers (29:22) What does Tristan's gym look like? Additional Links: Follow Tristan on Instagram and check out some other links Follow Matt & Kyle on YouTube Follow Matt & Kyle on Instagram Subscribe to Knurled News

Matt and Kyle chat about that home gym social media life. Links: Viral TikTok Post Bully Glider Review Episode Outline: (2:18) Social Media Grind (8:59) Going Viral on TikTok (15:08) Dealing with Hate (30:25) What's Next for Kyle? (32:05) What's Next for Matt? (37:33) Creating Equipment Follow: Follow Matt & Kyle on YouTube Follow Matt & Kyle on Instagram Subscribe to Knurled News

Matt and Kyle discuss new equipment in their homes along with other releases in the industry. Plus, Kyle updates us all on those jammer arm adapters. Links: Kabuki Bar Sold by Rogue Rogue MG-4 Plate Loaded Pulley Tower New Products from REP Episode Timeline: (8:03) Matt's New Equipment (10:55) Plate Loaded Pulley Towers (17:30) Other New Equipment (29:47) Jammer Arm Adapters Additional Links: Follow Matt & Kyle on YouTube Follow Matt & Kyle on Instagram Subscribe to Knurled News

Kyle and Peej (@designbuildlift) chat about the role of DIY projects in a home gym, how they record and present these projects on social media, and end the episode with a game called “build, buy, burn.” (0:45) HomeGymCon Chat (3:45) How Peej got into DIY Gym Equipment (16:47) The Beginning of Design. Build. Lift. - DIY Fitness Club on YouTube (19:45) YouTube Monetization (20:45) Favorite Project (24:26) The Recording Process of DIY Projects (25:56) Build, Buy, Burn Additional Links: Follow Design. Build. Lift. - DIY Fitness Club on YouTube Follow @designbuildlift on IG Follow Matt & Kyle on YouTube Follow Matt & Kyle on Instagram Subscribe to Knurled News

Matt and Kyle chat injuries, deloading, recovery times, and gym safety: (0:41) Workout-Related Injuries (5:53) Injuries Outside of the gym (21:06) De-Load (34:22) Safety Additional Links: Follow Matt & Kyle on YouTube Follow Matt & Kyle on Instagram Subscribe to Knurled News

Kim from Barbell Rescue (0:21) Kim went hunting (10:41) What is Barbell Rescue? (15:30) Toothpaste (20:00) Barbell Rescue momentum (27:02) Working out (42:05) Key takeaways Additional Links: Barbell Rescue Website Barbell Rescue on Instagram Barbell Rescue on TikTok Follow Matt & Kyle on YouTube Follow Matt & Kyle on Instagram Subscribe to Knurled News

Matt and Kyle take a bit of a new route this week by chatting about nutrition, cardio, ideal physiques, (3:12) Food and Nutrition (12:30) Cardio (17:42) Ideal Physique (20:35) Biggest Struggles Additional Links: Follow Matt & Kyle on YouTube Follow Matt & Kyle on Instagram Subscribe to Knurled News

Kyle sits down with John Greaves III to chat about creating home gym content, balancing a hectic schedule, social media strategies, and more. (0:25) A couple of news items (1:13) Tips for those looking to create home gym content (4:08) Juggling the work/life/work balance (8:51) Social media strategy (15:51) Primary platform Additional Links: Garage Gym Life YouTube Garage Gym Life Instagram Follow Matt & Kyle on YouTube Follow Matt & Kyle on Instagram Subscribe to Knurled News

Matt and Kyle discuss some recent news and answer questions about creating content within the home gym community. Show Notes: (0:00) Catch up time (5:33) Bully Glider (8:10) Marrs Bar Content Creation Questions: (11:17) Where do I begin? (16:44) How do I gain followers? (26:20) Money (32:32) Do I need my own website? (36:55) Tips and tricks for a successful Reel (44:12) How do you measure what makes a post successful? (50:02) How does the pay structure work? (1:01:25) How do I decide which platforms may be the best for me? Additional Links: Follow Matt & Kyle on YouTube Follow Matt & Kyle on Instagram Subscribe to Knurled News

Kyle (kaizendiygym), Jason (man_who_parks_in_gym), and Mike (nicelikemike___) answer questions from the community. (0:44) Can there ever be a cheaper Squatmax alternative from someone like Titan? (4:32) You guys should do a powerlifting meet. (9:04) Piece of equipment you want but don't need, daily driver barbell and MORE rapid fire ?s Additional Links: Follow @nicelikemike__ on IG Follow (man_who_parks_in_gym) on IG Follow Matt & Kyle on YouTube Follow Matt & Kyle on Instagram Subscribe to Knurled News

Kyle (kaizendiygym), Jason (man_who_parks_in_gym), and Mike (nicelikemike___) chat about working out on vacations, dad life, and more. (0:54) Do you work out when on vacation? (7:03) Favorite items to bring while traveling (11:09) Hotel gyms (14:39) Other activities to get your heart racing (19:34) Dad learning the hard way (22:30) Home gyms within Airbnbs? (27:46) Any gyms you'd travel to? Additional Links: Follow @nicelikemike__ on IG Follow (man_who_parks_in_gym) on IG Follow Matt & Kyle on YouTube Follow Matt & Kyle on Instagram Subscribe to Knurled News