Interlude with Mike Pridgen - What You Really Need (And Don't Need) To Lose Weight

What happens when the hosts become the guests on their own 100th episode? A wildly entertaining journey through the unexpected origin story of In Moderation.Mike takes the hosting reins as Liam and Rob reflect on how their paths first crossed through videos debunking health misinformation (it always comes back to Bobby). From Liam's background in sleep medicine to Rob overcoming social anxiety by posting videos during the pandemic, their conversation reveals how three content creators accidentally found an audience by simply being themselves.The discussion veers into gloriously unpredictable territory as they fantasize about purchasing a DeLorean ("I want cat eyes and my feet cut off to fit in a DeLorean, but man, I'm rolling in style!"), debate which horse body part they'd transplant onto themselves, and share the compliments and criticisms they receive most often. Between laughs, they reveal how they've grown more comfortable with their online personas while staying true to their mission of helping people overcome unnecessary food fears.Beneath the absurdity lie surprisingly profound moments, like their shared belief that "it takes more energy to be a dick" and the importance of recognizing that "history repeats itself." These glimpses of wisdom amid the chaos showcase why In Moderation has cultivated such a dedicated following - authentic voices cutting through misinformation with equal parts science and humor.Whether you're a long-time listener or first-time discoverer, this centennial celebration captures everything that makes In Moderation special. Subscribe now to join the conversation about health, science, and occasionally, tank nuts. Support the showYou can find us on social media here:Rob TiktokRob InstagramLiam TiktokLiam Instagram

How long will that hot dog cost you? According to groundbreaking research from the University of Michigan, about 35 minutes of your life. But don't worry – that PB&J sandwich you love adds 36 minutes back!In this fascinating deep dive, we explore the surprising science behind how specific foods either add to or subtract from your lifespan. The findings challenge many common nutritional assumptions: fruits outperform vegetables (14 minutes added versus just 4), nuts and seeds are nutritional powerhouses (adding a whopping 25 minutes per serving), and even breakfast cereal contributes positively to longevity.What emerges from our conversation is a striking pattern – virtually all the foods that significantly extend life expectancy align perfectly with the Mediterranean diet. From legumes (adding 12 minutes) to seafood (up to 14 minutes) and whole grains, the research validates this eating pattern as genuinely life-extending.We also discuss practical, budget-friendly ways to incorporate these longevity-boosting foods into your everyday meals. Frozen peas, affordable nut butters, and simple bean dishes can dramatically improve your diet's impact on health without breaking the bank or requiring culinary expertise.The takeaway isn't about eliminating every "negative" food from your life – it's about finding balance. As we discover, sometimes the most nutritious options are also the most accessible and delicious. Who knew that your childhood favorite sandwich might be adding hours to your life over time?Ready to make simple changes that could literally extend your life? Listen now and discover which foods deserve more space on your plate, which might be worth limiting, and why the Mediterranean diet continues to prove itself as the gold standard for longevity. Support the showYou can find us on social media here:Rob TiktokRob InstagramLiam TiktokLiam Instagram

Ever feel like your wallet is getting skinnier faster than you are on your weight loss journey? Mike and Rob dive deep into the money pit of fitness marketing, exposing what you actually need to spend on—and what's just clever marketing.The duo tackles the premium pricing of products like Fairlife milk (spoiler: you're paying triple for just 4g more protein) and bust the myth that organic labels guarantee better nutrition. Between frozen vegetables that outlast their fresh counterparts and generic brands manufactured in the same facilities as the expensive options, there are countless ways to trim your grocery bill without compromising your results.Beyond just shopping tips, they explore how recent FDA funding cuts have eliminated monitoring for six major foodborne illness strains, creating serious public health concerns. They also share invaluable insights on developing sustainable eating habits through finding enjoyable recipes rather than forcing yourself to eat "health foods" you hate.Most powerfully, they emphasize that mindset trumps materials in weight loss. No expensive product can replace the foundation of good habits, community support, and finding joy in your fitness journey. As Mike notes, "The mindset is where I started. If you can't seem to keep your calories in check... don't blame yourself. This isn't a moral failing. You just don't know where you're going right now."Ready to save money while still reaching your goals? This episode delivers practical wisdom without the hefty price tag. Join the conversation, and don't forget to catch Mike and Rob streaming No Man's Sky—say "banana bread" in the chat for a chance to win In Moderation merch! Support the showYou can find us on social media here:Rob TiktokRob InstagramLiam TiktokLiam Instagram

Ever found yourself stuck at a rest stop, staring at rows of fast food options and wondering if there's any hope for your nutrition goals? Fear not! This episode tackles the eternal challenge of eating well while traveling.We dive deep into practical strategies anyone can use on the road. From the magic of pre-portioned nut packs to the underrated power of dried fruit (dried pears might just change your life), we share our go-to solutions that are affordable, convenient, and genuinely satisfying. Want to know which cuisines offer the healthiest restaurant options when you're away from home? We've got you covered with surprising insights about Mexican food (yes, salsa absolutely counts as a vegetable serving) and why Greek/Mediterranean tops our list.The conversation takes some fascinating turns as we explore emerging food innovations like cricket flour protein and Japan's fiber-enhanced Diet Coke. Could these be the future of nutrition? We sample some unconventional options so you don't have to—though our $30 Japanese Diet Coke experiment might have been a bit extreme even for us.Most importantly, we emphasize the balance that makes healthy eating sustainable, especially during travel. You don't need to finish that entire donut if you're satisfied halfway through. You can enjoy your road trip treats while still making choices that support your health goals.Whether you're planning a cross-country adventure or just looking for better options during your daily commute, this episode delivers practical wisdom wrapped in our signature laid-back conversation. Hit subscribe and join us for more nutrition insights that actually fit into real life! Support the showYou can find us on social media here:Rob TiktokRob InstagramLiam TiktokLiam Instagram

Have you ever wondered why your ears hurt on airplanes, what causes that annoying ringing, or why Q-tips aren't actually recommended for cleaning your ears? Wonder no more! This episode features a professional audiologist (who happens to be a Twitch streamer known as Average Girl Games) diving deep into the fascinating world of ear health and hearing. From the intricate anatomy of our ears to practical advice on protecting your hearing, this conversation is packed with surprising insights that might change how you think about those two appendages on the sides of your head.Did you know your ear contains the smallest bone in your entire body? Or that high-frequency hearing loss happens first because of how your auditory nerve is organized? We explore why human ears have their distinctive shape, how sound travels through your ear, and why those bumps and ridges actually serve important acoustic purposes. Plus, get practical tips for preventing ear pain during flights, managing tinnitus (that annoying ringing), and proper ear protection techniques.The conversation takes some humorous turns too, from debates about pronunciation (is it "tinnitus" or "tinnitus"?) to strange objects audiologists have found in people's ears. Whether you're concerned about your hearing health or just curious about human biology, this episode offers a perfect blend of entertainment and education from a genuine expert.Listen now to gain a new appreciation for these often-overlooked but incredibly sophisticated organs, and learn how to protect your hearing for decades to come. Your future self will thank you! Support the showYou can find us on social media here:Rob TiktokRob InstagramLiam TiktokLiam Instagram

Ever wondered what really happens when a forensic pathologist investigates death? Forget everything TV shows have taught you about dark basements and creepy examiners. The reality involves bright laboratories, extensive medical training, and meticulous scientific procedures designed to uncover truth.In this candid conversation, forensic autopsy technician Julia pulls back the curtain on a profession shrouded in mystery. With five years of hands-on experience and advanced degrees in forensic science and pathogenesis, she reveals the systematic approach to examining the deceased—from external documentation and X-rays to the careful examination of internal organs. The process isn't just about determining how someone died; it's about preserving dignity, identifying potentially genetic conditions that might affect surviving family members, and providing closure for those left behind.Julia tackles controversial topics head-on, including the debate between medical examiner versus coroner systems, the challenges of maintaining professional integrity when facing pressure from law enforcement, and the severe national shortage of qualified forensic pathologists. With only about 500 practicing nationwide, this critical field struggles to meet demand while maintaining rigorous standards. She shares surprising insights about health too—like how skinny people can have severely clogged arteries while larger individuals might have pristine cardiovascular systems.Throughout our conversation, Julia's passion for education shines through. Whether explaining why "cardiac arrest" is a useless cause of death, describing her experience with organophosphate poisoning from a case, or revealing how forensic professionals use humor to cope with daily exposure to mortality, she demystifies a field that touches us all yet remains poorly understood. Follow Julia on social media @MyForensicPath as she works toward medical school and continues advocating for truth in death investigation. Support the showYou can find us on social media here:Rob TiktokRob InstagramLiam TiktokLiam Instagram

Ever wonder if your fitness coach is actually a sophisticated AI program pretending to be human? In this eye-opening conversation, we pull back the curtain on the growing problem of influencers using artificial intelligence to sell "personalized" fitness plans to hundreds or even thousands of clients simultaneously.Mike from "Mike Needs a Plan" joins us to share disturbing industry insights, including how a prominent fitness celebrity (described as "the Paul McCartney of our industry") was caught sending generic, recycled workout plans to clients who had specifically requested customized programs. We discuss the ethics of AI coaching, the reasonable client load for dedicated coaches, and how to spot red flags that suggest you might be paying premium prices for automated guidance.The conversation takes fascinating detours into the absurdity of current health priorities - politicians removing red food dye while loosening regulations on forever chemicals in our water supply. We explore how disability systems create impossible "brick walls" where people lose benefits faster than they can earn income, and share practical advice about what food banks actually need (hint: it's not just canned goods).For anyone trying to get back into fitness after a break, Mike offers refreshing perspectives on taking a more measured approach rather than diving into six-day-a-week routines. His moderate method has yielded better results without making the gym his entire personality.Whether you're navigating the confusing world of fitness advice, concerned about environmental policies, or simply trying to build healthier habits, this episode delivers straight talk with just enough humor to make the hard truths digestible. Join us for a conversation that might just save you from being scammed by a robot masquerading as your next fitness guru. Support the showYou can find us on social media here:Rob TiktokRob InstagramLiam TiktokLiam Instagram

Ever wondered what people eat when money is tight or cooking enthusiasm is at an all-time low? This episode dives deep into the fascinating world of "struggle meals" - those budget-friendly dishes that keep us alive when times get tough.From the humble can of chili (which gets our highest rating, especially when topped with avocado) to questionably "budget-friendly" dishes that require sautéing ginger and making a roux, we rate them all with brutal honesty and plenty of laughs. We discover that not all struggle meals are created equal - some are genuinely brilliant combinations of affordable staples, while others are elaborate recipes masquerading as simple solutions.The humble egg on rice earns high marks for its simplicity and satisfying nature, while canned tuna emerges as the protein hero of budget cooking, making multiple appearances throughout our list. We debate whether frozen meals deserve their place in the struggle meal pantheon (they do) and share our surprisingly passionate opinions about frozen pizza brands.What makes these meals so compelling isn't just their affordability - it's their ability to provide comfort during challenging times. Many represent culinary ingenuity at its finest: creating something delicious from whatever limited ingredients are on hand. These aren't just meals of last resort; they're cultural touchstones that connect us through shared experiences of making do with less.What's your go-to meal when your wallet is thin or your energy is low? Share your favorite struggle meals with us - we promise not to judge if they involve copious amounts of instant noodles or questionable combinations of pantry staples! Support the showYou can find us on social media here:Rob TiktokRob InstagramLiam TiktokLiam Instagram

The comfort foods we grew up with don't deserve their bad reputation. From cereal and hamburgers to mac and cheese and fried chicken, America's favorite dishes can actually be part of a balanced diet with some thoughtful modifications.Breakfast becomes a nutritional powerhouse when you add fresh fruit to cereal, use high-protein milk, or mix in fiber-rich options. Even the humble peanut butter and jelly sandwich – which University of Michigan researchers found adds more years to your life than almost any other food – proves that comfort and nutrition can coexist.Those classic hamburgers? They're already a balanced combination of protein, carbs, and fats – the problems come from preparation methods and proportions. By choosing leaner beef, whole grain buns, and generous vegetables, you transform fast food into real nutrition. The same goes for pizza, chili, and spaghetti with meatballs. These aren't inherently "bad" foods; they just need some rebalancing.The air fryer revolution has breathed new life into fried favorites. Chicken coated in cornflakes and air-fried delivers that satisfying crunch without excessive oil. Homemade french fries get crispy exteriors and soft interiors without deep-frying. Even simple swaps like mixing Greek yogurt with mayonnaise in potato salad maintain the creamy texture while improving the nutritional profile.American cuisine doesn't need to be abandoned for health – it just needs thoughtful modifications. Try our tuna mac and peas recipe with protein-enhanced pasta for a quick meal that satisfies comfort food cravings while delivering balanced nutrition. What American classic will you reimagine tonight? Support the showYou can find us on social media here:Rob TiktokRob InstagramLiam TiktokLiam Instagram

With SNAP benefits facing cuts and grocery budgets tightening across America, our deep dive into money-saving grocery strategies couldn't be more timely. Armed with a Buzzfeed list of 35 budget grocery shopping tips, we evaluate each recommendation on a scale from 1-10, separating genuinely helpful advice from less practical suggestions.The standout strategies earning our highest ratings include making detailed shopping lists, checking price-per-ounce rather than just looking at sticker prices, and embracing store brands for substantial savings. We explore how ethnic markets consistently offer lower prices on produce and staples, while discount racks provide opportunities that blow past the conventional wisdom of "shop the perimeter." The simple act of organizing your refrigerator can prevent costly food waste, while bringing only cash to the store creates a physical spending barrier that curbs impulse purchases.Our conversation reveals some surprising findings, including the effectiveness of requesting "rain checks" when sale items are out of stock, the dramatic savings potential of vegetarian meals built around beans and lentils, and digital coupon strategies through apps like Ibotta. We debate the practicality of extreme measures (buying an entire cow with friends?) versus accessible everyday habits that consistently save money. Whether you're shopping on a suddenly tighter budget or simply trying to stretch your grocery dollars further, you'll find practical, immediately applicable strategies to implement on your next shopping trip. Support the showYou can find us on social media here:Rob TiktokRob InstagramLiam TiktokLiam Instagram