Wits & Weights: Strength and Nutrition for Skeptics

Try my favorite sheets from Cozy Earth and get 20% off with code WITSANDWEIGHTS. Cozy Earth sheets are made with viscose from bamboo that wicks away heat and sweat to keep you cooler for deeper sleep and better recovery. Go to witsandweights.com/cozyearth--Sleep isn't just about feeling rested. It's a foundation that amplifies everything else you're doing for your physique goals, from optimizing fat loss and recovery to enhancing cognitive performance.Learn 3 system-level sleep fixes that address root causes instead of just symptoms for deeper, more restful sleep and recovery.Episode Resources:Get Cozy Earth temperature-regulating sheets (20% with code WITSANDWEIGHTS) at witsandweights.com/cozyearthDownload the Better Sleep, Better Body GuideTimestamps:0:00 - Why is sleep so important for fat loss, muscle gain, and recovery?3:37 - Sleep fix #1 (training schedule) 7:48 - Sleep fix #2 (body temperature) 12:04 - Sleep fix #3 (weekends) 14:56 - 2 bonus sleep hacksSupport the show

Join the Adaptive Cardio Workshop tomorrow (Tuesday, September 16) at 12 PM Eastern for only $27 (replay included). Get Philip's complete system for losing fat while personalizing your "minimum effective" cardio, plus the replay, 8 workout programs, and a custom 6-month nutrition plan. Register at live.witsandweights.com--If you've been doing hours of cardio every week expecting fat loss results, but you're either not seeing changes, feeling exhausted, or watching your strength training suffer, this episode will transform your approach.What if there was a smarter, more efficient way to incorporate movement that actually supports fat loss, preserves muscle, and enhances longevity?That's exactly what the Adaptive Cardio Pyramid delivers – a 3-layer framework that prioritizes what truly works while eliminating what doesn't. It tells you exactly how much movement you need for fat loss, muscle growth, and longevity without wasting time.Main Takeaways:Why "cardio only" underperform by 20-50% and the 3 big cardio mythsThe Adaptive Cardio Pyramid to "layer" your cardio in a sustainable (and enjoyable) wayThe 4 common implementation mistakes that cause people to burn outPractical tips to start building your pyramid from the bottom upEpisode Resources:The Adaptive Cardio Workshop - Tuesday, September 16, 12 PM Eastern. Grab your spot at live.witsandweights.comRelated Episode: 7 Benefits of Sprinting to Lose Fat (And Why It Beats Cardio, Especially for Lifters!) | Ep 293Timestamps:0:00 - The 3 biggest cardio myths 10:10 - The Adaptive Cardio Pyramid framework 22:23 - The science behind each layer 25:32 - Common mistakes when "doing cardio" 27:22 - Tips to implement the pyramid for fat loss and recoverySupport the show

Register for the Adaptive Cardio Workshop this Tuesday, September 16th at 12pm Eastern (replay included) at live.witsandweights.com--Confused about cardio?Tired of wasting hours on exercise that does nothing for fat loss?This episode introduces a brand new concept called adaptive cardio, where you use the minimum effective dose to maximize fat loss, muscle, and longevity. Ready to stop wasting time? Join the Adaptive Cardio Workshop this Tuesday, September 16th at 12pm Eastern (replay + bonuses included).Get the complete Adaptive Cardio Pyramid (and guide), baseline assessment tools, personalized planning framework, a custom 6-month fat loss plan, and a full month in Wits & Weights Physique University. Register at live.witsandweights.comSupport the show

Want to build muscle, lose fat, and train smarter? ⁠⁠⁠Join the new Physique University for just $27/month⁠⁠⁠ and get a FREE custom nutrition plan using this special link.—Lost weight only to gain it back? Tired of quick-fix diets that leave you weaker, not stronger? What if real success has nothing to do with the scale?Dr. Mikki Williden, a registered nutritionist, researcher, and host of the Mikkipedia Podcast, joins me, and we break down why most people are chasing the wrong metrics. We discuss why weight loss and lasting transformation are completely different skill sets, and how to develop the competencies that actually keep the results you've worked for. This conversation will change the way you measure progress and help you build not just a smaller body, but a stronger, healthier, and more capable one.Today, you'll learn all about:0:00 – Intro4:06 – Why weight loss isn't the real goal7:44 – The danger of regaining weight11:18 – Weight loss as a learned skill14:47 – Meal prep and planning as foundation18:53 – Building mindset through daily input22:08 – Shifting identity to strength and health40:24 – The truth about rapid fat loss47:36 – Why maintenance is not a free-for-all57:35 – Flexibility, sustainability, and final takeawaysEpisode resources:Mikkipedia PodcastWebsite: mikkiwilliden.com Instagram: @mikkiwilliden Facebook: @mikkiwillidennutrition X: @MikkiWilliden Support the show

Join Wits & Weights Physique University for unlimited access to evidence-based training templates, our "Lifting Lessons" course, and a free custom nutrition plan when you use this special link: https://bit.ly/wwpu-free-plan--Are you sore after workouts... and does this even matter?Learn why DOMS (Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness) is actually a terrible indicator of workout effectiveness, what it really tells you about your training, and the performance metrics you should track instead to know if you're making real progress toward your physique goals.This episode answers a question from a Wits & Weights Physique University member about whether soreness indicates workout quality and how to measure progress effectively.Main Takeaways:Soreness indicates novelty and adaptation to new stimuli, not workout effectiveness or muscle growthYou can get sore from ineffective activitiesExperienced lifters get less sore over time while still making gainsTrack much more targeted metrics of performance and progress instead of how sore you areHowever, soreness can be used to measure recoveryTimestamps:0:00 - Does pain equal progress? 2:57 - What is DOMS? 5:27 - Why soreness doesn't equal progress 8:51 - The repeated bout effect 10:53 - What soreness tells you about training 12:09 - When soreness becomes counterproductive 14:10 - Performance metrics that matter 17:20 - Recovery strategies for managing soreness 21:57 - From pain-focused to performance-focusedSupport the show

Download my favorite nutrition app (use code WITSANDWEIGHTS for a FREE 2 week trial): https://bit.ly/philipmacrofactor--Food logging doesn't have to be tedious or time-consuming when you use the right tools and strategies.I'm revealing 7 of my favorite hacks to transform tracking from a daily struggle into a seamless 3-minute habit (cutting your time by 80%) while making your nutrition data more useful for reaching your goals.Episode Resources:Try MacroFactor for free with code WITSANDWEIGHTS (download from your phone's app store)Try our new 2-minute Metabolic Quiz to find out what's stalling your metabolism... and get a personalized roadmap to sustainable fat lossJoin Physique University for access to my Meal Planning Advisor GPT; this special link includes a free custom nutrition plan when you join: https://bit.ly/wwpu-free-planTimestamps:0:00 - The food logging friction problem 2:36 - MacroFactor vs. other apps 5:20 - Hack #1: Copy/paste 6:51 - Hack #2: Recipes from log 8:06 - Hack #3: Biggest contributors 9:20 - Hack #4: Pre-logging and planning 12:16 - Hack #5: Logging the "main" ingredients only 14:32 - Hack #6: Label scanning vs. barcodes 15:49 - Hack #7: Macro/micro trends 17:51 - Bonus Hack #1 19:19 - Bonus Hack #2Support the show

Register for the Live Q&A with Zora on September 23, only in Physique U. Use this special link to join and get a free 6-month transformation plan: https://bit.ly/wwpu-free-plan--Could menopause be closer than you think? What if it's already starting in your 30s without you knowing?I bring on gerontologist and biohacker Zora Benhamou, host of Hack My Age, to reveal the hidden hormonal shifts most women miss. Zora shares why progesterone quietly dips in your mid-30s, how strength and mobility become your best defense, and why baseline lab tests are game-changers before symptoms kick in. We also talk about practical biohacks that help you build energy, confidence, and resilience now and for decades to come. Whether you're in your 20s, 30s, or already approaching perimenopause, this conversation will show you how to prepare early so you don't just get through menopause, you thrive.Today, you'll learn all about:0:00 – Intro1:03 – Meet expert guest Zora Benhamou3:08 – Why most women aren't informed5:11 – Common myths about modern menopause7:42 – Hormone timeline across the decades10:13 – Early signs of progesterone decline12:30 – Labs every woman should consider24:32 – Lifting weights for hormone support33:39 – Biohacks for your 20s and 30s42:06 – Flexibility, mobility, and healthy aging49:18 – Blood sugar hacks that workEpisode resources:Website: hackmyage.com Facebook: @HackMyAge Instagram: @HackMyAgeYoutube: @hackmyage Support the show

Get your free Progressive Overload Guide to apply these principles to improve your training: witsandweights.com/free--Ed Cohn, nicknamed the "Mozart of Strength," set 71 world records in powerlifting and became the lightest man to total over 2,400 pounds through his mastery of progressive overload and passion-driven consistency.His approach contrasts sharply with today's overcomplicated fitness culture, proving that simplicity and fundamentals still build champions.Ed is still considered the greatest powerlifter of all time, so what can we as modern lifters learn from his timeless approach to building strength?Learn how Ed went from a bullied 155-pound teenager training in his basement to becoming the lightest man to total over 2,400 pounds, and why his simple, passion-driven methods still outperform today's complicated training programs.Main Takeaways:Ed Coan set 71 world records using 3 simple principlesHis 1991 total of 2,402 pounds at 218 bodyweight represented a 14.5% improvement over previous world recordsModern fitness culture has more information than ever but less wisdomPassion endures where motivation failsTrue champions elevate others instead of just dominating themPrevious Lifting Legend Episodes:5 Rules of Ronnie Coleman, King of Bodybuilding (Lifting Legends #1) | Ep 353Timestamps:0:00 - Why Ed Coan is still the GOAT of powerlifting 2:22 - From bullied kid to basement training legend 3:26 - The systematic approach that built a champion 5:17 - 71 world records and seemingly impossible strength-to-weight ratio 10:27 - Simple principles vs. complicated programming 13:05 - The human behind the machine 16:24 - Passion vs. motivation and overcoming setbacks 20:00 - Ed's legacySupport the show

Join Physique University to get a personalized nutrition plan to look and feel better and stop guessing about your calorie needs: bit.ly/wwpu-free-plan--Why do some people thrive on far fewer calories than others (who might be miserable eating at that level)?When we talk about whether 800 calories a day is "unsafe," we're asking the wrong question. After all, your size, training, activity level, and energy needs are unique to you and can vary widely among the population.Learn why there's no universal unsafe calorie number, how to determine your own metabolic limits using biofeedback, and the critical trade-offs between aggressive deficits and sustainability. Main Takeaways:There's no universal "unsafe" calorie numberMetabolic adaptation is real but reversible, not permanent "damage"Use biofeedback (energy, sleep, strength, mood) as your personalized guide rather than arbitrary rulesThe trade-offs between speed, sustainability, and metabolic preservation require intentionalityEpisode Resources:Wits & Weights Facebook Community - Connect with others who understand nutrition isn't about universal rulesTimestamps:0:50 - The obsession with 800, 1200, and 1500 calories 5:18 - The reality of individual energy needs 8:50 - Very low-calorie diets (VLCDs) in clinical settings 10:30 - The Optavia problem 16:14 - Metabolic adaptation vs "metabolic damage" 19:28 - Speed vs. sustainability vs. metabolism 20:44 - Using biofeedback as your personalized compass 24:23 - The non-negotiables 25:29 - Context vs. absolutesSupport the show

Want to learn more about starting, managing, or transitioning off GLP-1 medications? Join Physique U to attend this Tuesday's live Q&A with GLP-1 expert Justin Silver (and get the replay plus a free custom nutrition plan): bit.ly/wwpu-free-plan--Are GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro stealing your hard-earned muscle?The short answer is no, but the reality is more nuanced than many realize.Learn why people experience muscle loss while taking weight loss medications. Weight loss medications can be incredible tools when used properly, but like any tool, they work best when combined with fundamental lifestyle strategies that optimize body composition.Support the show

Want to build muscle, lose fat, and train smarter? ⁠⁠⁠Join the new Physique University for just $27/month⁠⁠⁠ and get your custom nutrition plan FREE (limited time).—Can your smartphone really rival a $100,000 DEXA scan? What if the same device you use to scroll Instagram could also reveal your body fat percentage, fat distribution, and even your HRV?I sit down with Jason Moore, founder and CEO of Spren, a company turning your phone into a precision biometric tool. We talk about how Spren compares to gold-standard lab equipment, why body composition tells you more than scale weight ever could, and why tracking trends is often more important than chasing perfect numbers. This conversation will show you how technology can bring lab-grade insights straight to your pocket.Today, you'll learn all about:0:00 – Intro2:36 – Why body composition matters6:56 – How a phone measures fat10:55 – Accuracy versus precision explained14:38 – Lean mass and muscle changes20:15 – Why fat distribution is key29:56 – Apple versus pear body shapes33:20 – How often should you measure40:15 – Using your phone for HRV45:34 – Predicting VO₂ max with data48:32 – Turning numbers into outcomesEpisode resources:Website: spren.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/thehumanjason Instagram: @thehumanjason Support the show

Get your FFMI calculated automatically with the Physique & Biofeedback Tracker in Physique University to track your actual muscle development over time and understand exactly what phase of training you should focus on next. This special link also gets you a FREE custom nutrition plan:bit.ly/wwpu-free-plan--Is your strength training actually building muscle?Scale weight fluctuates, body fat measurements are inconsistent, and progress photos depend on lighting and angles.There's one metric that cuts through all this noise:Fat-Free Mass Index (FFMI)It shows your actual muscle development regardless of whether you're carrying extra fat or feeling bloated, and once you understand yours, it changes everything about setting goals and how to focus your training.Most lifters have never heard of FFMI. Unlike body weight or even body fat percentage, FFMI isolates your actual muscular development from everything else, giving you clarity about your progress that no other measurement can.Main Takeaways:FFMI measures your muscularity independent of body fat percentageTwo people with the same training experience can have vastly different FFMI numbers, requiring completely different approachesBuilding muscle takes years, while losing fat takes months, so you need a more precise way to track thisYour FFMI determines whether you should prioritize muscle building or fat loss (vs. your feelings or the mirror)Episode Resources:Chef's Foundry non-toxic ceramic cookware (50% off): witsandweights.com/chefsfoundryBody Recomp Workshop replay and bonuses at live.witsandweights.com (includes free custom nutrition plan)Timestamps:0:00 - What is FFMI and why it's a game changer 5:06 - 2 scenarios that reveal everything about your training focus 8:16 - FFMI values explained (what your number actually means) 11:15 - How FFMI determines whether you should cut vs. bulk 17:12 - Natural vs. enhanced FFMI limit 19:45 - Why low FFMI means muscle building is your priority 22:14 - How the fitness industry gets muscle vs. fat loss backward 25:29 - Tracking FFMI over time to validate objective progress 27:03 - Muscle development vs. body compositionSupport the show

Build muscle and lose fat (no dieting or bulking) with the 90-Day Body Recomp Workshop replay + bonuses (90-day week-by-week plan, custom nutrition plan, and training programs for 3, 4, and 5 days per week):live.witsandweights.com--You've been told that belly fat gain during midlife is inevitable... just part of aging and declining hormones that you have to accept.Recent research from the landmark SWAN study that followed 308 women for 12 years reveals the truth: "menopause belly" isn't random aging.It's a specific, predictable hormonal reshaping of where your body stores fat that begins 3 years before menopause and can be prevented and reversed.Discover the exact timing windows when intervention works best, why some women don't experience this shift at all, and the science-backed strategies that can help you take control of your body composition during this transition... no matter where you are in the process.Main Takeaways:Menopause belly is a measurable shift from protective fat storage (hips/thighs) to dangerous visceral fat around organs (not just general weight gain)Fat redistribution accelerates dramatically during the menopause transition but begins up to 3 years earlierYou can prevent and reverse this fat redistributionEpisode Resources:90-Day Body Recomp Workshop with replay and bonuses: live.witsandweights.comChef's Foundry non-toxic ceramic cookware (50% off): witsandweights.com/chefsfoundryTimestamps:0:00 - The research on menopause belly fat 5:41 - Visceral vs. android vs. gynoid fat patterns 7:50 - When fat redistribution actually begins 9:33 - Biological mechanisms 12:59 - Individual differences 14:40 - 5 ways to reverse menopause belly fat 24:23 - Why this research is empowering for all womenSupport the show

This week in my Instagram feed, I shared 2 critical principles that determine if your nutrition plan will actually work for fat loss and muscle building in real life, such as:When life is at its messiest, not just when everything is perfectDealing with social events, travel, and celebrations (birthday cake!)Eating more but not eating more caloriesMaking fat loss easier and more sustainableFollow me on Instagram @witsandweights to read more pithy, nerdy, out-of-the-blue, but ultimately helpful (i.e., practical!) thoughts on fat loss, nutrition, training, diets, behavior, psychology, and more.Send me a DM letting me know which principles resonate with you and how you plan to implement them!Just go to instagram.com/witsandweightsSupport the show

Join Physique University (free for 2 weeks) to engineer your best physique using our science-based fat loss and muscle-building blueprint—Why can two people follow the same diet and training plan but get completely different results? Could your DNA explain why fat loss feels harder, or why recovery takes longer? And is genetic testing the breakthrough it claims to be or just another fitness gimmick?With me is Joe Cohen, founder and CEO of SelfDecode, to separate the science from the scams. Joe shares what your genes can actually tell you about building muscle, losing fat, and preventing disease, and where the industry is misleading you. We also dig into how combining genetic data with lab work creates actionable steps you can measure and adjust over time.Tune in to discover whether your DNA could be the missing piece in your fitness journey.Today, you'll learn all about:0:00 – Intro2:17 – Why most DNA health tests fail6:44 – Marketing hype vs real science9:59 – Moving beyond the fitness basics12:01 – Diseases genetics can predict well16:38 – Universal habits vs targeted actions18:15 – How SelfDecode prioritizes recommendations22:43 – Genes and training insights27:22 – Pathways and functional genetics31:17 – Combining genetics with lab work38:07 – Joe's story of food intolerance45:45 – Where to learn more about SelfDecodeEpisode resources:Website: SelfDecode.comInstagram: @mrbiohacker Facebook: @selfdecode X: @SelfDecode Support the show

Get your free Nutrition 101 for Body Composition Guide to learn the fundamentals of energy balance, macros, and meal timing for building muscle and losing fat: witsandweights.com/freeGet Chef's Foundry P600 Ceramic Cookware - 50% off at witsandweights.com/chefsfoundry--Stop letting inaccurate metabolism estimates sabotage your nutrition goals. The fitness industry has convinced us that estimating metabolism requires expensive tests, fancy gadgets, or complex formulas, but there's one method that cuts through the noise using evidence, engineering, and efficiency.Your fitness tracker says you burned 3,200 calories, online calculators recommend 2,400 for maintenance, and your metabolic test shows 1,850 RMR. They're all probably wrong.Discover the one method gives you your actual daily calorie burn with scientific precision so you can run your next fat loss or muscle building phase confidently and with success.Main Takeaways:Your metabolism has 4 components that fluctuate constantlyOnline calculators can be off by 300-600 calories per personFitness trackers have 27-93% error rates for energy expenditureThe only accurate method is to track calorie intake + trend weight over 3-4 weeks to reverse-engineer your actual TDEEThis approach is self-correcting, personalized, adaptive, and works even with imperfect food loggingEpisode Resources:Try MacroFactor for free with code WITSANDWEIGHTS - the app that automates metabolism tracking using the method discussedGet Chef's Foundry P600 Ceramic Cookware - 50% off at witsandweights.com/chefsfoundryRelated Episode:4 Ways to Increase Your Metabolism by 500 to 1000 Calories per DayTimestamps:0:01 - Why most metabolism estimates are completely wrong 6:30 - Online calculators 9:10 - Fitness trackers and wearables 10:43 - RMR testing 12:29 - Measuring inputs/outputs vs. mechanisms/effects 15:10 - How to calculate your real TDEE 23:38 - My favorite app that does this for you 26:08 - Imperfect food logging, water weight, and metabolic issues 30:40 - Why you should start tracking TODAY 31:48 - Becoming the scientist of your own physiologySupport the show

Join the 90-Day Body Recomp Workshop tomorrow (Tuesday, August 19) at 12 PM Eastern for only $27 (replay included). Get Philip's complete system for simultaneous fat loss and muscle gain, plus a custom nutrition plan. Register at live.witsandweights.com--Think you need a calorie deficit to lose fat? Or months of bulking followed by months of cutting to reshape your physique?Think again.Body recomp (the simultaneous loss of fat and gain of muscle) isn't just possible... it's achievable for most people under the right conditions. Your body can become remarkably efficient at energy partitioning, directing nutrients toward muscle growth while mobilizing stored fat for fuel. This episode breaks down exactly how this works: how your body can simultaneously burn fat and build muscle, often without scale changes.Learn who can achieve this "impossible" feat and how to do it.Main Takeaways:Body recomp is simultaneous fat loss and muscle gain, possible even at maintenance caloriesYour body actively partitions energy based on training stimulus and protein intakeBeginners, detrained individuals, and overweight people have the highest recomp potentialScale weight becomes virtually useless - track strength, measurements, and photos tooEpisode Resources:90-Day Body Recomp Workshop - Tuesday, August 19, 12 PM Eastern ($27)Chef's Foundry P600 Non-Toxic Ceramic Cookware - 50% off at witsandweights.com/chefsfoundryTimestamps:0:01 - The scale weight paradox 3:45 - Body recomposition 5:06 - Why THIS is non-negotiable for recomp 6:48 - Energy partitioning and insulin sensitivity 9:30 - Who can achieve body recomp (spoiler: more people than you think) 12:27 - Detrained individuals 13:45 - Overweight or obese 15:09 - Older adults and advanced lifters 18:34 - What is required for body recomp & how to track 22:37 - Patience + realistic expectations 26:02 - Metabolic health improvements 28:39 - Sustainable physique developmentSupport the show

Register for the 90-Day Body Recomp Workshop this Tuesday, August 19th at 12pm Eastern (replay included) at live.witsandweights.com--Tired of cutting and bulking (or just don't want to)? Frustrated with approaches that leave you either feeling too fluffy or too depleted?Is there a middle ground that works instead?Yes, it's called body recomposition or "body recomp" where you build muscle and lose fat at the same time.Most people get stuck in the cut-bulk cycle, never feeling satisfied with where they land.But body recomposition offers a smarter approach: a method that fuels muscle growth while still allowing for fat loss.What You'll Learn:Why the scale lies during body recompThe 3 biggest myths keeping you stuckHow "aggressive maintenance" worksWhat metrics actually matter for tracking progressReady to dive deeper?Join the 90-Day Body Recomp Workshop this Tuesday, August 19th at 12pm Eastern (replay + bonuses included).Get the complete 3-phase plan, Physique & Biofeedback Tracker, training template, and a full month in Wits & Weights Physique University.Register: live.witsandweights.comSupport the show

Want to build muscle, lose fat, and train smarter? ⁠⁠⁠Join the new Physique University for just $27/month⁠⁠⁠ and get your custom nutrition plan FREE (limited time): bit.ly/wwpu-free-plan—Were women in the past weaker than men, or have we been sold a lie? What if prehistoric women could outlift most modern athletes? And how does understanding this history change the way you train today?I'm joined by Anne Marie Chaker, author of Lift: How Women Can Reclaim Their Physical Power and Transform Their Lives. We break down archaeological evidence that shows ancient women had elite-level strength, explore how cultural narratives have stripped women of their physical identity, and reveal why midlife can be a prime time for building muscle. You'll learn simple, sustainable ways to start lifting, structure your workouts, and rethink food as fuel, not the enemy.Today, you'll learn all about:0:00 – Intro2:24 – From journalist to competitive bodybuilder4:30 – Archaeological proof of elite ancient women7:07 – The Viking warrior who wasn't a man11:10 – The mixed messages of modern fitness culture17:37 – How to fuel like an athlete26:10 – Navigating perimenopause and training30:05 – First steps for women new to lifting36:10 – A brief history of strong women in sport40:09 – How lifting shapes identity and mindsetEpisode resources:Website: annemariechaker.comBook: Lift: How Women Can Reclaim Their Physical Power and Transform Their LivesLift SubstackLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/anne-marie-chaker-62119317 Instagram: @annemariechaker Support the show

Get your free Nutrition 101 for Body Composition guide to understand the fundamentals of nutrition and personalize your calories/macros:witsandweights.com/free--Diet culture emerged in the 1920s, when calorie counting was invented, cigarettes were marketed as weight loss aids, and thinness became associated with moral virtue for the first time in American history.Discover how the birth of modern diet culture 100 years ago created patterns we're still repeating today.Main Takeaways:Dr. Lulu Hunt Peters invented calorie counting in 1918, selling 2+ million copies of the first diet bestsellerLucky Strike's "Reach for a Lucky instead of a sweet" campaign increased cigarette sales 300% by targeting weight-conscious womenThe moral dimension of dieting (connecting food choices to character and virtue) started in the 1920s and persists todayBizarre 1920s fads (grapefruit diets, tapeworm pills, vibrating belts) reveal humanity's eternal search for effortless weight loss shortcutsEnergy balance remains the core principle, but now we understand the many other nutrition and lifestyle components that matterThe desire for quick fixes is deeply human but misleading... sustainable success comes from embracing fundamentalsEpisode Resources:Join Wits & Weights Physique University for $27/month - get your custom nutrition plan built for free when you use this exclusive podcast listener link: bit.ly/wwpu-free-planGet Chef's Foundry P600 Ceramic Cookware - 50% off at witsandweights.com/chefsfoundryTimestamps:2:37 - Dr. Lulu Hunt Peters, calorie counting pioneer 6:42 - Cigarettes vs. sweets campaign 9:30 - Bizarre 1920s fads (grapefruit diet, tapeworms, and vibrating belts) 12:44 - What the 1920s got right about weight loss 15:18 - 3 major mistakes that persist today 19:17 - Why we still seek the same quick fixes 100 years later 22:21 - Sustainable fundamentals vs. magic solutionsSupport the show

Get Chef's Foundry P600 ceramic cookware at 50% off plus a complete guide on cookware materials and safety at:witsandweights.com/chefsfoundry--Do you cook with nonstick pans, microwave with plastic containers, or wonder about materials you drink out of?Learn about the science behind 3 major categories of chemical exposure from cookware and food packaging: microplastics, PFAS ("forever chemicals"), and plasticizers like BPA.While avoiding fear-mongering, we discuss legitimate concerns about how these compounds might affect hormones, inflammation, and long-term health when exposure accumulates over time.Plus, learn practical steps to minimize exposure without losing your mind over every container in your kitchen.Main Takeaways:Microplastics from scratched cookware and PFAS from nonstick coatings are legitimate concerns worth addressing through simple swapsThe "dose makes the poison" cumulative exposure over time matters more than occasional contactEasy wins include replacing scratched nonstick pans, using glass containers for microwaving, and choosing ceramic or stainless steel cookwareYour body's detoxification systems are enhanced by the same foundational health practices we always discuss (strength training, quality nutrition, adequate sleep)Timestamps:0:02 - 3 categories of chemical exposure from cookware 3:20 - Microplastics 5:21 - PFAS "forever chemicals" 6:56 - Plasticizers, BPA, and aluminum leaching 8:38 - How these exposures might affect you 10:38 - Recommended cookware 14:46 - Should you be concerned? 19:25 - 3 levels of kitchen safety 21:30 - Avoiding food safety anxiety 22:17 - Recap for cookware, storage, and waterTry Chef's Foundry P600 ceramic cookware at 50% off - Swiss-engineered ceramic coating with removable handles, no PFAS, no Teflon: witsandweights.com/chefsfoundrySupport the show

Get 10% off SymptoGuard to manage GLP‑1 side effects and stay consistent with your eating and training.—Are GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic secretly stalling your progress? Why are so many users quitting despite major weight loss?I talk with Justin Silver, founder of SymptoGuard, who watched his father battle severe Ozempic side effects that nearly took his life. Justin shares the real reasons users struggle on GLP-1s and how these can derail your fitness and muscle goals even while losing weight. If you're taking or considering GLP-1s, this episode will help you manage side effects, protect your protein intake, and make the drugs actually work for you.Today, you'll learn all about:0:00 – Intro2:13 – Age, side effects, and body stress4:49 – Justin's father's Ozempic story6:16 – What's really causing the distress8:23 – Lifestyle habits reduce symptoms11:43 – Top 2 side effects that derail progress14:15 – The problem with food noise19:02 – What's in SymptoGuard and why21:57 – Clinical results: 50% less nausea25:24 – GLP-1 trends: fewer injections, more side effects28:44 – What doctors need to understand33:32 – Where to learn more and get supportEpisode resources:Visit witsandweights.com/symptoguard to learn more, view the ingredient label, etc.Instagram: @symptoguard and @thejustinsilver Facebook:  @SymptoguardYoutube: @SymptoGuard Support the show

Get my new RESOLUTE 5-Day Powerbuilding template when you join Physique University to maximize both strength and muscle growth simultaneously at this link (special for podcast listeners to get a FREE custom nutrition plan when you join): http://bit.ly/podcast-new-wwpu--Most lifters choose between getting strong or building size.Powerbuilding represents the intelligent marriage of strength training and hypertrophy, allowing lifters to make simultaneous progress in both areas without compromising either goal.Discover why the traditional approach of switching between strength and hypertrophy programs limits your progress, and how Philip's new RESOLUTE 5-day powerbuilding design helps you create synergistic gains.Main Takeaways:3-week rep range rotations prevent adaptation loss while maintaining progress across all rep rangesStarting every session with your heaviest main lift when fresh maximizes neurological demand and drives all other liftsDevelopmental lifts reinforce main movements without competing, addressing weaknesses while adding complementary volumeDedicated back and arms specialization accelerates physique development without interfering with main lift recoveryIntelligent deloading only when necessary (every 9-12 weeks) rather than forced periodic breaksEpisode Resources:Chef's Foundry P600 Cookware: Swiss-engineered ceramic coating with no PFAS, Teflon, or plastic components. Get 50% off at witsandweights.com/chefsfoundryTimestamps:0:01 - What is powerbuding for strength AND muscle? 3:15 - Why strength and hypertrophy training are synergistic 5:37 - 3-week rep range rotation system 10:08 - Main lifts and developmental variations 14:37 - Back and arms specialization 16:51 - Adaptive deloading 19:34 - Frameworks vs rigid programs 22:28 - Building both strength and size systematicallyGet RESOLUTE when you join Physique U: http://bit.ly/podcast-new-wwpuSupport the show

Get a FREE custom nutrition plan when you join Physique University to maximize both strength and muscle growth simultaneously at this link (special for podcast listeners): http://bit.ly/podcast-new-wwpuGet 50% off Chef's Foundry P600 ceramic cookware (no PFAS, no Teflon, no microplastics) at witsandweights.com/chefsfoundry--Influencers claim you can get shredded eating nothing but junk food. At the same time, clean eating gurus demonize a single cookie (or even broccoli!) as though it's poison. Both miss the point entirely.This false dichotomy creates an all-or-nothing mindset that undermines your success. When we operate at extremes, either "if it fits your macros" with zero regard for food quality or rigid clean eating that moralizes every bite, we set ourselves up for an unhealthy relationship with food. The research consistently shows that the sustainable solution lives in the unsexy middle ground that nobody wants to talk about because it doesn't get views or sell weight loss programs.Learn about Lyle McDonald's concept of "Excluding the Middle" and why the fitness industry's obsession with extremes traps you in cycles of all-or-nothing thinking that undermine long-term success.Main Takeaways:Why both "if it fits your macros" junk food diets and rigid clean eating miss the pointThe research supporting the middle ground: 85% whole foods, 15% flexibilityHow rigid dietary restraint increases binge eating risk while flexible restraint improves outcomesThe exact framework for implementing sustainable nutrition without moralizing foodWhy planning for flexibility (not spontaneous perfection) is key to long-term successEpisode Resources:Get 50% off Chef's Foundry P600 ceramic cookware (no PFAS, no Teflon, no microplastics)Lyle McDonald's "Excluding the Middle" articleTry MacroFactor for free with code WITSANDWEIGHTSEpisode: Why Macros Might Be All You Need to Streamline Your NutritionTimestamps:0:01 - The false dichotomy of nutrition extremes 6:04 - All "junk food" diet 10:35 - 100% clean eating 15:28 - The middle ground 21:07 - 300 calories a day for enjoyment 22:27 - Flexible vs. rigid restraint (targets + guidelines) 24:19 - THIS is everything 25:30 - Planning for flexibility vs. spontaneous "perfect" choicesSupport the show

Join Physique University for just $27 a month to access our workshop on sprint training and receive a free custom nutrition plan using this exclusive listener link: http://bit.ly/podcast-new-wwpu--Today we're celebrating a huge win for 72-year-old listener Bruce @bruceandjantrain.Bruce achieved impressive results following the sprint protocol discussed in Episode 293, increasing his power output by 78% in just 4 months and demonstrating the effectiveness of this time-efficient training approach for lifters. Age is no barrier!Listen to the Sprinting for Lifters episode here:7 Benefits of Sprinting to Lose Fat (And Why It Beats Cardio, Especially for Lifters!)Support the show

Get your free custom nutrition plan (exclusive to podcast listeners) when you join Wits & Weights Physique University for just $27/month--The psychology behind weight loss methods has created a moral battleground where people judge themselves and others based on whether they use traditional lifestyle approaches or pharmaceutical interventions like GLP-1 drugs.People are losing 40 pounds on Ozempic or secretly microdosing GLP-1 drugs, while underground resentment brews between those who "did it the hard way" and those accused of taking "shortcuts."We're keeping it real about the psychology behind the Weight Loss Wars using a (more reasonable) systems-based approach that eliminates judgment while optimizing for what actually matters: YOUR sustainable results.Main Takeaways:"Ozempic envy" reveals more about our relationship with effort than with resultsFat loss is an engineering problem, not a moral issueGLP-1 microdosing creates fascinating case studies in behavior modification (and still requires building lifestyle skills)The most successful people combine external tools with internal skill developmentStop keeping score of who's doing it "right" and start engineering systems that work sustainably for YOUEpisode Mentioned:Eat More To Lose Weight? (The Iron Triangle of Fat Loss)Timestamps:0:00 - The Weight Loss Wars and moral superiority 3:00 - What is "Ozempic Envy"? 8:00 - GLP-1 microdosing 11:00 - Why we assign moral value to effort and struggle 15:00 - GLP-1s and/or lifestyle skills18:00 - Designing YOUR system (ignoring distractions)22:00 - Lifelines vs. shortcuts 24:00 - How to stop the weight loss warsSupport the show

Check out the other half of our Q&A on Brandon's Chasing Clarity podcast, where we tackle your questions on hunger, cravings, appetite, and artificial sweeteners.---Just wrapped a bulk and scared to lose muscle? Over 50 and unsure if gains are still possible? Walking 20,000 steps a day with no results?In this Q&A, I team up with physique coach Brandon DaCruz, host of the Chasing Clarity podcast, to tackle five hot topics around fat loss, muscle building, and diet fatigue. We break down smart post-bulk strategies, how much walking is too much, and realistic expectations for muscle gain over 50, plus how to recover when dieting burns you out.Don't miss part two of this episode on the Chasing Clarity podcast, where we explore how hunger, cravings, and sweeteners impact your results.Main Takeaways:A smarter way to cut after a bulkWhen walking too much backfiresMuscle gain over 50 is slow—but possibleDon't underestimate diet fatigueLifestyle stress and recovery matter more than you thinkTimestamps:2:00 – Post-bulk strategy for women 40+8:34 – Are 20K steps a day too much?22:15 – Building muscle after 5028:49 – Best small-space home gym setup36:56 – How to recover from diet fatigue41:08 – Training and recovery during a fat loss phase46:54 – The signs you're hitting a wall53:50 – Training mindset and strength drops during a cutCheck out the other half of our Q&A on Brandon's Chasing Clarity podcast, where we tackle your questions on hunger, cravings, appetite, and artificial sweeteners.Support the show

Get the new RESOLUTE 5-day Powerbuilding Program in Physique University and stop second-guessing your approach to lifting. Join for just $27/month and get a custom nutrition plan included when you tap this special link for podcast listeners--Eight-time Mr. Olympia Ronnie Coleman didn't just build a legendary physique. He created a blueprint for what dedication, consistency, and love for lifting can achieve.His famous "light weight, baby!" was about an approach to training that transformed his body and an entire culture of lifting.This is the first episode in our new Lifting Legends series, where we connect modern training science with the rich history of lifting culture to extract timeless principles that are relevant today more than ever.Main Takeaways:Ronnie's blueprint for greatness: consistency, simplicity, and genuine love for the lifting processWhy fundamental movements (squats, deadlifts, presses, rows) built the greatest physique in bodybuilding historyHow to channel Ronnie's commitment while training smarter for long-term health and sustainabilityThe difference between training hard and training smart (and why you need both)Episode Mentioned:12 Rules of Training Volume to Build More MuscleTimestamps:0:02 - The King's blueprint for greatness 4:22 - Ronnie's humble beginnings at Metroflex Gym 6:30 - Ssimplicity executed at an elite level 12:56 - Why Ronnie's methods align with modern science 17:13 - Building your own lifting legacy 18:44 - What to emulate vs. what to avoid from Ronnie's approach 23:25 - Excellence + sustainability 26:48 - THIS separates legends from everyone elseSupport the show

Want to build muscle, lose fat, and train smarter? ⁠⁠⁠Join the new Physique University for just $27/month⁠⁠⁠ and get your custom nutrition plan FREE (limited time).—Why are you gaining belly fat even while lifting and eating well? Could your sluggish metabolism be a liver problem in disguise?I sit down with certified supplement expert Sara Banta to reveal how your liver and thyroid work together to control metabolism, muscle retention, and fat loss and why ignoring liver health might be what's sabotaging your fitness progress. We unpack how stress, sleep, hormones, and toxins overload your body's ability to function efficiently, even if you're doing everything “right.” If you're consistent with training and nutrition but still stuck, this might be the missing piece.Today, you'll learn all about:3:12 – Sara's health crisis and muscle loss9:36 – Iodine's surprising benefits12:36 – Liver's role in fat storage17:56 – The real hierarchy of healing24:29 – What to eliminate—and when28:15 – Movement and metabolic communication33:30 – Alcohol, toxins, and your thyroid36:08 – Final truth: Why proactive health mattersEpisode resources:Website: sarabantahealth.com Facebook: @acceleratedhealthproducts Instagram: @acceleratedhealthproducts Youtube: @AcceleratedHealthSaraBantaSupport the show

Get a full Lifting Lessons course including how to warmup in Physique University and stop second-guessing your approach to lifting. Join for just $27/month and get a custom nutrition plan included when you tap this special link for podcast listeners--Most lifters either skip their warmup or spend 30 minutes on elaborate routines that miss the point.Learn how the engineering concept of the Cold Start Problem reveals the systematic approach to preparing your body for heavy lifting.Discover why your body needs a proper boot sequence before loading heavy weights, and how to design a targeted warmup that primes your nervous system for peak performance while serving as a diagnostic tool for your training readiness.Main Takeaways:Your body operates like a computer system that requires proper initialization before running high-performance tasksThe 3-phase warmup sequence: System Power-On, Hardware Check, and Application-Specific LoadingYour warmup serves as both preparation and diagnostic tool... listen to what your body is telling you!Movement-specific ramp-up sets are non-negotiable; everything else is optional based on your needsDistinguish between normal muscle soreness (DOMS) and pain that signals potential problemsEpisode Mentioned:Never Fall Off Track Again with Your Fitness or Fat Loss - Risk management principles for trainingTimestamps:1:16 - Why most warmup approaches are fundamentally flawed 3:37 - The Cold Start Problem 6:13 - The 3-phase warmup sequence 10:41 - Example: How to warmup for a 405-pound deadlift 14:50 - The biggest warmup mistakes to avoid 17:49 - Using your warmup as a diagnostic tool 19:03 - DOMS vs. pain 20:59 - Customizing warmups for different scenarios 24:39 - Systemic communication within your body during warmupsSupport the show

Get your free custom nutrition plan (exclusive to podcast listeners) when you join Wits & Weights Physique University for just $27/month--There was a day when everything we thought we knew about losing weight got turned upside down.For decades, the advice was simple: eat less, move more.But then scientists started asking why weight loss always seemed to get harder over time, and what they discovered changed everything.This landmark Episode 350 explores the paradigm shift that revolutionized our understanding of metabolism, fat loss, and why 95% of people regain lost weight.Main Takeaways:Your body doesn't just passively lose weight, it actively fights back by slowing metabolism and increasing hunger within 2-3 weeks of dietingThe shift from moral food judgments to flexible, data-driven nutrition revolutionized sustainable fat lossThree game-changing strategies emerged: macro tracking as a foundation, working with (not against) metabolic adaptation, and strength training as metabolic insuranceThis scientific revolution changed how we view our bodies, from broken machines needing punishment to intelligent adaptive systems responding to our lifestyle signalsEpisode Mentioned:Fat Loss vs. Weight LossTimestamps:0:01 - The day everything changed about weight loss 4:30 - Why the "eat less, move more" approach failed 8:47 - How your body fights back: the hormone cascade 10:47 - The rise of flexible dieting and evidence-based coaching 12:29 - Key people who changed the game 14:37 - From food restriction to food awareness 19:35 - 3 game-changing strategies from the research Support the show

Discover the most powerful daily habit for blood sugar control that most people completely overlook.In this bonus episode, I'm sharing my recent conversation with Ben Tzeel from the Your Diabetes Insider podcast, where we nerd out on the surprising connection between strength training and metabolic health.Main Takeaways:Why resistance training beats cardio for blood sugar control and insulin sensitivityThe shocking 25-point blood sugar difference from just one week without liftingHow to overcome gym intimidation and start strength training safelyThe 2-minute movement "snacks" that increase muscle protein synthesis by 47%Efficient training protocols that deliver results in 30-45 minutes, 3 days per weekWhy compound movements like squats and deadlifts are metabolic game-changersEpisode Resources:Your Diabetes Insider Podcast - Ben Tzeel's showPhilip's YouTube channel to watch the video on how to stop prediabetes and insulin resistance without cutting carbsMy favorite nutrition app - try MacroFactor for free with code WITSANDWEIGHTSSupport the show

Want to build muscle, lose fat, and train smarter? ⁠⁠⁠Join the new Physique University for just $27/month⁠⁠⁠ and get your custom nutrition plan FREE (limited time)—Is your doctor telling you to “lift heavy” but you don't even know where to start? Wondering how to build strong bones without ending up hurt or overwhelmed? Curious if weighted vests actually do anything for bone health?I brought Megan Dahlman back to the show to answer these questions and more. Megan is a strength coach who specializes in helping women over 40 build muscle, improve mobility, and fight back against a condition called osteosarcopenia. We talked about the risks of jumping into heavy lifting the wrong way and how to progress smartly and safely from bodyweight to weights.Today, you'll learn all about:2:50 – What is osteosarcopenia?6:38 – How muscles and bones work together11:28 – Why “lift heavy” can backfire18:21 – The best place for beginners to start23:11 – The truth about weighted vests28:20 – What's the minimum effective dose?36:39 – Should you train for power too?42:04 – Sample training structures that work51:55 – Home vs. gym: how to decide55:50 – Where to start with Megan's programEpisode resources:Training program – Jumpstart 30Youtube: @vigeofitInstagram: @megandahlman Facebook: @vigeofit Website: vigeofit.com Support the show

Join the new Wits & Weights Physique University at just $27/month (was $87) - get access to training templates, course library, private community, and so much more.Podcast listeners get a custom nutrition plan FREE (normally $47) when you join by the end of July using this special link: bit.ly/podcast-new-wwpu--Hitting the gym consistently but not seeing the muscle growth you want?You might be making one critical mistake with your training volume.Most lifters either do way too little to stimulate growth or pile on so much that they're hitting a wall and burning out.Learn about 12 evidence-based rules that separate muscle builders from muscle stragglers.Episode Resources:"The New Approach to Training Volume" - article by Greg NuckolsPhysique & Biofeedback Tracker - available in the new WWPU (now just $27/mo plus a FREE custom nutrition plan for podcast listeners with this link: bit.ly/podcast-new-wwpu)Episodes Mentioned:Strength vs. Hypertrophy (The 65% Threshold for Lifters Chasing PRs vs. Muscle Size) Timestamps:0:01 - The critical volume mistake most lifters make4:59 - Rule 1: Hard sets per muscle group6:29 - Rule 2: Proximity to failure7:48 - Rule 3: Does more volume = more growth?9:19 - Rule 4: How many sets per muscle per week?10:32 - Rule 5: Rep range doesn't matter, effort does12:15 - Rule 6: What about strength (vs. hypertrophy)?15:28 - Rule 7: Periodize volume over time16:23 - Rule 8: Recovery capacity determines your ceiling18:57 - Rule 9: Wasted volume kills progress20:55 - Rule 10: Compound vs isolation lifts21:45 - Rule 11: What exactly should you track?22:33 - Rule 12: The ONE rule about volume that matters most24:49 - Advanced concept: Volume landmarksSupport the show

Get your free Nutrition 101 Guide at witsandweights.com/free to learn how to structure your nutrition (including carbs) for optimal health and body composition based on your goals.--Could everything you've been told about carbs, insulin, and managing prediabetes be completely backward?For the 96 million American adults living with prediabetes, the standard advice has been clear. Cut carbs, avoid bread, ditch fruit. But groundbreaking research reveals this approach might be keeping you stuck in a cycle of restriction without addressing the real problem.Insulin resistance isn't a carbohydrate problem. It's a muscle problem. Today we expose the real culprit behind insulin resistance and why upgrading your ability to use and dispose of glucose efficiently can stop prediabetes and insulin resistance WITHOUT cutting out carbs.Main Takeaways:Prediabetes isn't a carb problem; it's a muscle problemEvery 10% increase in muscle mass = 11% reduction in insulin resistance and 12% reduction in prediabetes riskJust 1 strength training session can increase glucose uptake by 40% and improve insulin sensitivity for up to 48 hoursStrategic carb inclusion around workouts reverses insulin resistanceMuscle tissue releases myokines during contractions that improve metabolic functionEpisodes Mentioned:Blood Sugar Spikes, Carb Myths, GLP-1s, and Fat Loss Tips from a Type 1 Diabetic (Ben Tzeel) or YouTubeStrength vs. Hypertrophy (The 65% Threshold for Lifters Chasing PRs vs. Muscle Size)The 2-Minute Walking Hack That Builds 47% More MuscleThe REAL Triggers of Chronic InflammationTimestamps:0:02 - The carb restriction myth for prediabetes 2:53 - What prediabetes really is (and standard medical advice) 4:13 - The muscle mass connection: 13,000-person study results 5:17 - How insulin resistance works at the cellular level 7:16 - GLUT4 transporters and glucose "doorways" 8:44 - How to engineer your glucose disposal machinery (training, walking, carbs, sleep, and stress) 17:18 - Myokines - how muscle acts as an endocrine organ 19:29 - Why this is a muscle disease, not a carb diseaseSupport the show

Join the new Wits & Weights Physique University at just $27/month (was $87) - get access to training templates, course library, private community, and so much more.Podcast listeners get a custom nutrition plan FREE (normally $47) when you join by the end of July using this special link: bit.ly/podcast-new-wwpu--Ever wondered if you could hack your bulking phase to gain more muscle and less fat?This episode answers a question from our free Facebook community that many data-driven "optimizers" are wondering about.John asked if strategic extreme deficit days during an otherwise surplus-focused bulking phase could help "clean up" fat gain.It seems logical on paper... create a weekly calorie surplus while periodically burning fat through protein-sparing modified fasts. But does your body respond to this the way you might expect?Learn how muscle building actually works and how to optimize your approach to building muscle with minimal fat gain.And if you want YOUR question answered with this level of detail, join our free Wits and Weights Facebook group and use the #AskPhilip monthly thread.Support the show

Are you overpaying for food that's supposed to be healthier? Have food labels like “grass-fed,” “non-GMO,” and “all-natural” been misleading you? What if the truth behind your grocery cart was simpler and way less stressful?Natalie Kovarik, a fourth-generation cattle rancher and co-host of the Discover Ag podcast, joins me to clear up the confusion. We go behind the food labels to talk about what matters when it comes to nutrition, budgeting, and values, and what's just clever marketing. Whether you're training hard, feeding your family, or just trying to make better choices, this will help you shop smarter without the overwhelm.Today, you'll learn all about:0:00 – Intro2:18 – Why “non-GMO” frustrates farmers4:06 – What is greenwashing?5:39 – Organic vs all-natural vs grass-fed7:44 – Smarter ways to shop on a budget13:13 – The huge impact of food waste16:10 – Grain-fed vs grass-fed nutrition24:28 – How safe is your grocery store milk?32:31 – Glyphosate and the dirty dozen41:06 – Why fresh and local still matter45:05 – Safe vs healthy: important distinction48:10 – Debunking myths about factory farmsEpisode resources:Website: discoverag.com and kovarikcattleco.com Instagram: @nataliekovarik and @discoveragpodcast Tiktok: @discoveragpodcastPodcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/discover-ag/id1615443750 Youtube: @Discoveragpodcast Support the show

Join my email list for exclusive content on the psychology of transformation that you won't find anywhere else. Go to witsandweights.com/email--Struggling with fat loss despite knowing exactly what to do? You're not alone.The answer isn't about knowledge, it's about psychology. Learn how the PERMA framework from positive psychology reveals the 5 psychological elements that separate people who sustain their transformation from those who remain stuck.Discover how to engineer your fat loss approach to work WITH your psychology instead of against it, creating conditions where healthy behaviors actually feel good to maintain.Main Takeaways:The intelligence paradox: Why smart people often struggle most with sustainable fat lossThe 5 PERMA elements: Positive emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and AccomplishmentHow to systematically engineer psychological momentum into your fat loss approachWhy traditional approaches focus on mechanics but miss the psychological infrastructureHow to audit yourself across the PERMA dimensions to identify your weakest areaTimestamps:0:01 - The intelligence paradox in fat loss 3:22 - Why smart people struggle with fat loss 5:06 - Introduction to the PERMA framework 6:17 - P: Positive Emotion and cognitive flexibility 8:31 - E: Engagement and finding flow states 10:50 - R: Relationships and social connection 13:07 - M: Meaning and purpose-driven goals 14:05 - A: Accomplishment and self-efficacy 17:24 - How to engineer YOUR psychologySupport the show

Grab your free Ultimate Macros Guide ebook to implement everything covered in today's episode with specific formulas and practical steps. Go to witsandweights.com/free--What really works for fat loss?After 70 years of scientific research spanning thousands of studies and millions of participants, the truth is both simpler and more nuanced than the fitness industry would have you believe.Forget the latest fat loss hack or magic supplement. After 70 years of rigorous research (thousands of studies spanning from NASA's bedrest experiments in the 1970s to today's landmark trials), science has identified 7 key principles that determine fat loss success.These aren't TikTok trends or new theories. They're evidence-based principles proven over and over again in controlled studies, meta-analyses, and real-world applications.Main Takeaways:A calorie deficit remains non-negotiable for fat loss, but the method to create it is highly flexibleProtein preserves muscle and controls hunger through multiple mechanismsResistance training beats cardio for body composition every single timeDiet adherence matters more than diet type when calories are controlledNEAT (non-exercise activity) can swing your daily calorie burn by up to 2,000 caloriesMuscle mass serves as your metabolic insurance policy for long-term successSustainable approaches always beat aggressive "quick fix" methodsEpisode Resources:Try MacroFactor for free with code WITSANDWEIGHTSDownload our popular ebook, Ultimate Macros GuideRelated episode: The 3+3 Optimal Model of Fat LossTimestamps:0:01 - 70 years of research distilled into 7 principles 3:28 - Principle #1: A calorie deficit is required 7:23 - Principle #2: Protein is king 11:13 - Principle #3: Resistance training is best for body composition 15:45 - Principle #4: Diet adherence beats diet type 19:56 - Principle #5: NEAT can make or break your deficit 25:09 - Principle #6: Muscle mass is your fat loss insurance policy 29:39 - Principle #7: Sustainability vs. speed 35:36 - How these principles work together for life optimizationSupport the show

What if everything you thought you knew about fitness was filtered through marketing hype rather than science?After experimenting with countless diet trends across my 20s and 30s, from Atkins to Paleo to keto and intermittent fasting, I've learned firsthand that what matters isn't finding the "one perfect approach" but building sustainable systems that work specifically for you.The fitness world has become saturated with influencers making bold but oversimplified claims. If someone tells you there's only "one true way" to achieve fitness goals, your skepticism radar should go on high alert.In this bonus episode from my recent appearance on the With Passion podcast hosted by Josh Taft, we discuss how to make sense of the barage of information from the fitness industry, why strength training is absolutely essential for longevity, and how to approach your health and fitness journey with a sustainable, evidence-based mindset.Discover why most fitness advice is wrong, how to navigate conflicting information, and why muscle truly is your retirement plan, especially after 40.Main Takeaways:Why being skeptical of fitness trends and guru claims can save your health and moneyThe shocking truth about why 95% of diets fail and what successful people do differentlyHow muscle mass is literally your insurance policy against aging and diseaseWhy strength training beats cardio for fat loss, longevity, and metabolic healthThe psychology behind sustainable goal setting and why most people try to change too much at onceHow to use "seasons" of focused effort followed by maintenance phases for long-term successWhy consistency with basics beats perfection with complex protocolsEpisode Resources:Check out Josh's podcast With PassionSupport the show

Grab your free Muscle-Building Nutrition Blueprint to learn how to eat for your training goals (even when managing blood sugar and eating carbs). Go to witsandweights.com/muscle–Are carbs really your enemy? Should you be training fasted? Can someone with diabetes actually build muscle and thrive?Registered dietitian and strength coach Ben Zeal, who's been living with type 1 diabetes for over 25 years, joins me to break down some of the biggest myths in fitness and nutrition. We discuss carb fear, insulin misconceptions, and the truth about fasted training, CGMs, GLP-1s, and more. Ben also covers how blood sugar management isn't just for diabetics, but for anyone wanting consistent energy, better performance, and body composition goals that stick. Our discussion is packed with real talk and practical strategies to train smarter, eat with confidence, and stop fearing carbs.Today, you'll learn all about:4:39 – Should non-diabetics track glucose?6:13 – Walks, workouts, and insulin sensitivity9:28 – Can movement replace medication?13:11 – How to overcome carb fear15:14 – Best training approach for blood sugar22:36 – Stress: the hidden blood sugar saboteur27:40 – GLP-1 drugs and smart strategy30:48 – What insulin pumps actually do36:32 – How to become a consistent lifter41:44 – Does fiber really matter for blood sugar?44:25 – Where to find Ben and free resourcesEpisode resources:Your Diabetes Insider PodcastWebsite: yourdiabetesinsider.com Instagram: @manoftzeel Facebook: m.me/manoftzeel?ref=w10525587 Youtube:  @yourdiabetesinsider Support the show

Try MacroFactor for free with code WITSANDWEIGHTS to see exactly how these walking breaks impact your daily calorie burn and support your muscle-building or fat loss goals or go to witsandweights.com/blog/macrofactor--Can you immediately increase muscle building by 47%?It's 3 PM on a Tuesday, and you've been glued to your desk since 8 AM. Your back is stiff, your energy is crashing, and you can feel that familiar tightness setting in from hours of sitting.But here's what you don't realize: that prolonged sitting isn't just making you uncomfortable. It's actively blocking your muscle protein synthesis, sabotaging your ability to build muscle from the food you eat.A groundbreaking 2022 study revealed a shocking truth: prolonged sitting can reduce your muscle protein synthesis by nearly 50%, effectively blocking your body's ability to build muscle from the protein you eat. This happens through multiple pathways we'll discuss, and there's a stupidly simple solution that can have the opposite effect and boost muscle building by 47%!Main Takeaways:Prolonged sitting creates "anabolic resistance" that can reduce muscle protein synthesis by up to 50%A simple walking hack can completely reverse this effect and boost muscle building by 47%The biological mechanisms: improved blood flow, enhanced amino acid delivery, reactivated mTOR signaling, and better insulin sensitivityCompound benefits beyond muscle building include stable energy, better blood sugar control, improved recoveryStudy Mentioned:Study by Moore et al. (2022) published in The Journal of PhysiologyTimestamps:0:01 - The hidden cost of prolonged sitting4:05 - Why sitting blocks muscle gains8:08 - How 2-minute breaks reverse the damage11:16 - Practical tips to implement TODAY14:15 - Compound effects beyond muscle buildingSupport the show

Try Wits & Weights Physique University free for 2 weeks at witsandweights.com/physique - get a custom nutrition plan, live coaching calls, workout programs, and join Allan and our supportive community tackling similar fat loss and body composition challenges--Have you ever looked in the mirror and felt like you were staring at a stranger... but in a good way?That's exactly where Allan finds himself after successfully building visible muscle mass and fundamentally changing his relationship with food.In this real-time coaching session, we get into the fascinating psychological phenomenon of mental lag that happens when your body transforms faster than your self-perception can keep up.Discover how to handle rising metabolism during cuts, manage post-bulk hunger, and process the psychological side of major physique transformation.Episode Mentions:Allan's previous episode: After Bariatric Surgery, He Found Optimal Health and Strength Over 60Try MacroFactor for free with code WITSANDWEIGHTSTimestamps:0:00 - Allan's physical and mental transformation since Episode 77 6:31 - "Feeling fat" is a fallacy 11:49 - Relationship with food and emotional eating 16:06 - Current training and what's working 19:03 - Live coaching on metabolism and hunger challenges 27:27 - Identifying the real cause of grazing behavior 34:32 - Family responsibilities and life balance 39:15 - Planning the next bulk 44:15 - The deeper "why" behind transformation 46:35 - Importance of proper warm-ups and injury prevention 52:40 - Biggest takeaways and next stepsSupport the show

Grab your FREE Ultimate Macros Guide, designed for those who are serious about optimizing their physique. It's not a quick fix; it's a playbook that teaches you how to make smart eating choices, track your biofeedback, and implement gradual changes for success.–Are you chasing success but running on empty? Do your workouts feel harder yet deliver fewer results? What if your energy, not your money, is the real currency of success?I sit down with Alex Feinberg, ex-pro athlete, former Google exec, and elite performance coach, to break down how high achievers can stay lean, energized, and efficient all year long. We explore why doubling your training volume might be hurting your progress, how to optimize your metabolism for maximum fat loss, and why treating energy like currency changes everything. Alex also reveals simple frameworks to track recovery, train smarter (not harder), and turn your body into a high-performance machine. Today, you'll learn all about:2:35 – Why energy beats more money4:30 – How high performers get stuck6:58 – The kingpin habit that changes everything13:15 – The myth of the 3 PM crash18:39 – How carbs affect sleep and energy24:37 – Why your workouts aren't working33:04 – High-intensity training, defined38:25 – How to stay shredded eating pizza44:39 – Processed food vs real food50:02 – Train what you usually ignore53:13 – Fitness is your wealth-building shortcutEpisode resources:Website:  feinbergsystems.com Instagram: @alexfeinbergofficial X: @alexfeinberg1 Facebook: @alexfeinbergofficial Youtube: @alexfeinberg1 Support the show

Get your free Nutrition 101 guide at witsandweights.com/free to understand the fundamentals of nutrition without getting lost in the weeds, including how to set up energy balance, macronutrients, and calories in a way that actually makes sense--"Calories don't exist, they're just made-up numbers.""You don't eat calories, you eat food."These statements have gained traction on social media, usually from people trying to dismiss energy balance or suggest that tracking food is meaningless.But this argument reveals a fundamental misunderstanding about measurement in science and engineering.Let's dismantle the anti-calorie argument for good.Learn why calories are actually one of our most precise tools for understanding energy and how, at the same time, you don't need to obsessively count every calorie to benefit from understanding energy balance, and acknowledging their importance doesn't mean ignoring food quality, hormones, or individual differences.Main Takeaways:Calories are a precise unit of energy measurement, just like miles measure distance and money measures valueThe "calories aren't real" argument is a category error that could invalidate any scientific measurementBomb calorimetry directly measures the chemical energy in food's molecular bondsReductionism through measurement is how we understand and control complex systemsCalories provide a foundational tool that works alongside other factors like food quality and hormonesEpisode Resources:Try MacroFactor for free with code WITSANDWEIGHTS - the app that uses calorie data to calculate your actual metabolismTimestamps:0:02 - The "calories aren't real" argument 4:06 - Measurement validity and category error 6:24 - What calories actually measure and why they're precise 7:42 - Useful approximation vs. perfect measurement 10:59 - 3 reasons people dismiss calories 14:18 - How we use calories for real nutrition results like fat lossSupport the show

Join my free email list for exclusive mindset content or go to witsandweights.com/email--That crushing moment when you see someone warming up with what you consider your max lift. We've all been there. Your confidence evaporates, and suddenly you're questioning everything about your training, your genetics, and your worth as a lifter. But what if this entire mindset is exactly what's holding you back?Learn why your current strength numbers don't define you and how the comparison trap is sabotaging your progress, motivation, and enjoyment in the gym.Discover the psychology behind why we get caught up in strength comparisons and the simple mindset shift that will transform every workout into an opportunity for growth rather than a test of your worth.Main Takeaways:The comparison trap shifts your focus from personal progress to arbitrary rankings that don't serve your goalsYour current numbers are just a snapshot of where you are now, not your potential or worth as a lifterTrue strength is measured by consistency, effort, and continuous improvement within your own contextEgo lifting, exercise avoidance, and lost joy in training are the hidden costs of number obsessionFocus on the process of getting stronger rather than comparing absolute numbers to othersTimestamps:0:01 - The gym confidence killer 3:29 - The comparison trap explained 5:35 - Why there's no universal "strong enough" 7:53 - Numbers matter as tools, not identity 10:28 - What actually defines you as a lifter 12:27 - The destructive costs of number obsession 14:15 - Redefining strength and progress 17:23 - 5 mentally healthier strategies to track progress 20:31 - The irony of strong but insecure lifters 22:55 - Applying this mindset beyond the gymSupport the show

Join Physique University (free for 2 weeks) to get a custom nutrition and lifestyle plan with the simple steps to start engineering your ideal physique, plus weekly coaching to commit, take action, and build momentum! –Why wait for motivation to get healthy? What if that's exactly what's keeping you stuck, and there's a better way forward?I'm joined by Jenn Trepeck, host of Salad with a Side of Fries and an optimal health coach who helps people build sustainable habits, without extremes. We break down why motivation is not the key to fitness success and how relying on it keeps us in a cycle of guilt, shame, and inconsistency. Instead, we talk about building momentum through simple, repeatable actions that fit into real life, even on your busiest days. Jenn also shares two practical movement routines anyone can start today.Today, you'll learn all about:3:43 – Replace motivation with momentum6:23 – What discipline really looks like10:21 – Make fitness fun and doable16:07 – How to start without overwhelm20:04 – Consistency beats intensity25:49 – Aligning expectations with your life35:02 – When tracking helps more than hurts54:27 – Your sustainable plan starts here58:45 – Two-minute routine for busy days1:01:17 – Affirmations that actually workEpisode resources:Podcast: Salad with a Side of Fries  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jennifertrepeckInstagram: @jenntrepeckX: x.com/jenntrepeckTiktok: @jenntrepeckYoutube: @jenntrepeck “It's Not What to Eat, It's How to Eat” (free download)Support the show

Join our free Facebook community at facebook.com/groups/witsandweights--Tired of the inflammation fear-mongering? Stop obsessing over "toxic" foods and learn what actually drives chronic inflammation in your body.While fitness influencers point fingers at gluten, seed oils, and nightshades, the real culprits are hiding in plain sight... and they're not what you think.This episode dismantles the myths surrounding inflammation and reveals the true drivers of this misunderstood health concern. While we're scrutinizing ingredient labels and avoiding specific foods, the actual causes of chronic inflammation are hiding in plain sight... and they have little to do with what's on your plate.Discover how to engineer an anti-inflammatory lifestyle using systems thinking instead of food perfectionism.Main Takeaways:Acute vs. chronic inflammation are completely different systems requiring different solutionsThe #1 driver of inflammation isn't foodsOne organ functions as your body's natural anti-inflammatory pharmacySpecific lifestyle factors matter more than eliminating specific foodsWestern dietary patterns drive inflammation, not individual ingredientsEpisode Resources:Try MacroFactor for free with code WITSANDWEIGHTS - Apple/iPhone or Google/AndroidTimestamps:0:00 - The inflammation myth 2:16 - Acute vs. chronic inflammation 3:39 - The real drivers of inflammation 5:31 - Why specific foods don't matter 8:42 - Engineering an anti-inflammatory lifestyle 12:13 - The anti-inflammatory organ you can develop 14:47 - Systems approach to inflammationSupport the show

Grab your free Menopause Fat Loss Over 40 Guide to get the complete evidence-based strategy for navigating fat loss during this transition--Struggling with unexplained weight gain during perimenopause or menopause? You're not alone, and it's not just "hormones and aging."The menopause transition triggers a perfect storm of metabolic changes that go well beyond simple hormone fluctuations. Research shows us that during a specific 3.5-year window, women experience accelerated fat gain and muscle loss that can dramatically alter body composition, even when the scale barely moves (though in many cases it does and you seem to always gain weight).Learn the real science behind why your body composition changes during this transition (including the surprising protein leverage effect that's sabotaging your efforts) and discover evidence-based strategies that actually work to improve your body composition and support fat loss.Main Takeaways:The menopausal transition uniquely accelerates fat gain and muscle loss in a specific 3.5-year window (it's not just normal aging)Body composition can shift dramatically even when the scale doesn't move (you lose muscle while gaining fat, especially belly fat)The "protein leverage effect" drives overconsumption when muscle protein breakdown increases your appetite for proteinFSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) affects metabolism independently of estrogen, starting before estrogen significantly declinesStrategic lifestyle, nutrition, and training adjustments can prevent or reverse these changesEpisode Resources:Try MacroFactor for free with code WITSANDWEIGHTS - Track your food and let the app calculate your metabolismLifting Weights vs. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) for Fat Loss Over 40 | Ep 278Timestamps:0:01 - Why the scale keeps creeping up and jeans keep getting tighter 2:50 - Body weight vs. body composition 6:45 - Beyond estrogen (the role of FSH in metabolism) 9:27 - The protein leverage effect (affects overeating) 12:17 - Menopause myths (age and inevitable weight gain) 16:45 - 5 evidence-based solutions 18:22 - This 1 behavior gives you more confidence and control 21:32 - The role of chronic stress in exacerbating metabolic changes 24:42 - Reframing the menopause transition as an opportunitySupport the show

Can walking alone get you to your fat loss goals? Should you tweak your nutrition on heavy lifting days versus lighter training sessions?This bonus Q&A episode tackles two questions in the Wits & Weights Facebook group in our monthly #AskPhilip live.Jasmine asked: “How long can I keep losing fat with walking alone, and how do I ease into strength training without tanking my energy or hormones?”John asked: “On heavy deadlift days, should I eat more fats or protein instead of carbs to recover better?”Tune in to find out the answers.And join our free Wits and Weights Facebook group to ask your question for the next Q&A!Support the show