The Barbell Therapy & Performance Podcast

In this episode, we sit down with Megan, registered dietitian and co-founder of Feeding Littles, to discuss what parents need to know about childhood nutrition, picky eating, and building a healthy relationship with food.We explore why picky eating is often less about food and more about autonomy, the common mistakes that can unintentionally reinforce these behaviors, and what the latest research says about introducing allergenic foods early in life. Join us in a conversation that goes beyond nutrition, covering body image, social media’s influence on children, and how parents can help raise confident kids who trust their hunger cues, enjoy food without fear, and develop healthy habits that last a lifetime.Whether you're a parent, coach, healthcare professional, or simply interested in evidence-based health, this episode is packed with practical takeaways you can apply immediately.

Dr. Brett Scott sits down with Dr. Charlie Weingroff to break down pain science, performance, and smarter recoveryTakeawaysRehabilitation and training are interconnected processes.A thorough evaluation is essential for effective treatment.Understanding patient needs is crucial for problem-solving.Physiological factors, including hormones, affect pain sensitivity.The immune system plays a significant role in recovery.Nutrition is vital for optimal performance and healing.T cells are important for immune response and recovery.Blood work can provide insights into a patient's health status.Collaboration among healthcare professionals enhances patient outcomes.Training intelligently can prevent overtraining and related illnesses. Nutrition is crucial for muscle growth and recovery.Peptides can be beneficial but should not be the first solution.Recovery is often misconceived as a passive process.Intelligent training is the best recovery tool.Pain is a complex interaction between mind and body.Conditioning the brain can alter pain perception.A balanced approach to pain science and biomechanics is essential.Understanding the root cause of pain is critical for effective treatment.Not all exercises are suitable for every individual.Communication and empathy are key in patient care.Chapters00:00- Introduction to Dr. Charlie Weingroff07:54- Rehab Equals Training Philosophy20:15- Physiological Factors Influencing Pain29:21- Immune System and Pain Sensitivity34:49- Understanding Skin Conditions and Peptides46:22- The Evolution of Pain Science52:24- Pain: A Complex Interaction of Mind and Body59:27- The Importance of a Balanced Approach to Pain Science and Biomechanics

Hip replacement at 36 and back to competitive powerlifting - Dr. Brett Scott and coach Tony Bonvechio break down what surgery, rehab, and smarter training really look like.TakeawaysTony Bonvecchio had a hip replacement at 36 years old.He transitioned from baseball to powerlifting, leading to hip issues.Conservative management of hip pain was initially attempted.Imaging revealed significant degenerative changes in his hip.Post-surgery, he experienced a positive recovery and return to training.Listening to one's body is crucial in managing pain and performance.Training adjustments can help maintain fitness while dealing with injuries.The importance of having a supportive medical team is emphasized.Younger individuals can benefit from timely surgical interventions.Pain management and performance are complex and require careful consideration.Chapters:00:00- Introduction to Tony Bonvecchio's Journey02:12- The Path to Powerlifting and Hip Issues10:11- The Decision for Hip Replacement Surgery21:02- Post-Surgery Reflections and Recovery33:45- The Importance of Timely Surgical Intervention37:29- Navigating Change in Coaching and Treatment39:13- Post-Surgery Recovery and Limitations41:09- Adjusting Techniques and Overcoming Pain44:59- The Importance of Technique in Strength Sports52:29- Returning to Recreational Sports Safely56:33- Setting Realistic Expectations in Coaching01:01:40- The Value of Experience in Recovery01:04:13- Exploring Surgical Options for Hip Issues

Dr. Brett Scott sits down with pro ultrarunner Ryan Montgomery to explore the mindset, physiology, fueling strategy, and extreme demands behind racing 100 miles competitively.TakeawaysRyan Montgomery is a professional ultra marathon runner.His journey into ultra running began with a high school marathon challenge.Key experiences shaped his understanding of mental and physical limits.Ultra running is seen as a playground for mental performance.Curiosity drives Ryan's approach to ultra running.Post-race recovery involves significant physical and hormonal challenges.Nutrition strategies during races often include unconventional choices like soda.Aid station efficiency is critical for competitive performance.Self-regulation of pace is essential in ultra running.Fear can negatively impact performance in endurance sports. Embracing challenges leads to better performance.Mental fortitude is key in ultra running.Trusting your body can unlock hidden potential.Training specificity is crucial for race success.Heat adaptation improves performance in extreme conditions.Nutrition should be familiar and simple before races.Gut health plays a significant role in athletic performance.Tracking recovery can enhance training outcomes.Gradual progression in distance is important for new runners.All shoes are generally fine; comfort is key.Chapters00:00- Introduction to Ultra Running and Ryan Montgomery01:36- Catalysts for Becoming an Ultra Runner05:16- First Experiences with 100-Mile Races06:38- The Draw of Ultra Running10:15- The Primal Connection to Running13:30- Post-Race Recovery and Hormonal Effects16:45- Nutrition Strategies During Races20:28- Aid Station Efficiency and Strategy26:02- Pacing and Self-Regulation in Ultra Running30:22- Performance Metrics and Competitive Landscape32:07- Fear and Mental Training in Ultra Running33:03- Embracing Challenges in Ultra Running35:23- Mental Fortitude and Trusting Your Body39:15- Training Specificity and Heat Adaptation45:13- Nutrition Strategies for Race Day51:13- Gut Health and Performance52:21- Tracking Progress and Recovery59:24- Encouragement for Aspiring Ultra Runners

Dr. Brett Scott sits down with physiotherapist and strength coach Jared Maynard to unpack surviving a near-fatal autoimmune condition, navigating progressive vision loss, and rebuilding strength, purpose, and leadership from the ground up.TakeawaysJared's journey began with a sudden illness that escalated quickly.He experienced severe symptoms leading to hospitalization.The diagnosis of HLH was a turning point in his health crisis.Life support was a critical phase in his recovery process.Jared's physical fitness prior to illness played a crucial role in his survival.Rehabilitation involved relearning basic physical functions.Support from family and friends was vital during his recovery.Jared returned to powerlifting, achieving personal records after recovery.His experience highlights the importance of resilience and determination.Jared continues to face challenges with vision loss post-recovery. Choroideremia affects one in a hundred thousand people, primarily men.Night blindness is often the first symptom of choroideremia.The diagnosis of legal blindness can come unexpectedly and disrupt life plans.Adapting to vision loss involves both practical changes and emotional processing.Public perception of blindness can lead to misunderstandings and assumptions.Using assistive technology, like a white cane, can be emotionally heavy.Empathy from others who have faced similar struggles can provide comfort.Blindness is not a binary condition; it exists on a spectrum.The journey of adapting to a disability is ongoing and complex.Maintaining hope and purpose is crucial in the face of chronic illness. Pain is subjective and cannot be judged by others.Empathy is crucial in supporting those who are suffering.Sitting with someone in their pain can be more helpful than offering solutions.Misdiagnosis in healthcare can lead to prolonged suffering.Life perspectives change significantly after experiencing near-death situations.Memento Mori serves as a reminder to live fully and appreciate life.The mundane aspects of life can distract from what truly matters.Memories and experiences are invaluable, even if they come with pain.Singing and creative expression can help process emotions.It's important to enjoy life while we have it.Chapters00:00- Introduction to Jared's Journey01:08- The Onset of Illness03:46- The Hospitalization Experience10:01- Diagnosis and Initial Treatment12:11- Life Support and the Fight for Survival17:58- The Road to Recovery24:05- Rehabilitation and Rebuilding Strength30:47- Returning to Powerlifting and Life After Illness33:34- Ongoing Challenges and Future Outlook34:00- Understanding Choroideremia: A Personal Journey39:04- Navigating Life with Vision Loss44:14- The Emotional Toll of Adapting to Blindness48:58- Facing Misunderstandings and Assumptions56:47- The Courage to Be Seen and Fight Back01:05:08- Understanding Pain and Empathy01:07:00- The Importance of Sitting in Suffering01:09:27- Navigating Misdiagnosis and Healthcare Challenges01:11:38- Life Perspectives and the Reality of Mortality01:15:20- Memento Mori: Living with Awareness01:19:10- Reflections on Life After Near-Death Experiences01:23:28- The Value of Memories and Experiences

Entrepreneurship looks glamorous online, but Dr. Brett Scott and psychologist/business coach Lauren DiCredico break down the real cost—burnout, overthinking, and relationship strain—and how high performers can actually manage it.Takeaways:Entrepreneurship is often glamorized but comes with hidden struggles.Mindset issues can lead to overthinking and burnout.Coaching can be more effective for high performers than traditional therapy.Identifying the real problems often requires an objective perspective.Personal issues often reflect in business challenges.Burnout manifests as emotional exhaustion and lack of motivation.Recognizing early signs of burnout is crucial for recovery.Self-care is essential for maintaining business performance.Mindset pressures can lead to unnecessary stress and burnout.Not all entrepreneurs aspire to build million-dollar businesses. I was hesitant to even call myself a mindset coach.I want to help you learn how to solve them.It's really just a rinse and repeat.I already know your story.You need to check in.It's all about communication.You have to set that early.It's not about the fight, it's about the recovery.There's a lot of people who have problems.You have to learn those skills.Chapters00:00- The Glamorization of Entrepreneurship09:02- Identifying the Real Problems20:06- Recognizing Signs of Burnout26:15- Mindset and the Pressure to Perform32:01- The Importance of Self-Solving38:01- Compartmentalization in Work and Life44:26- Stress Tolerance in Entrepreneurs

Dr. Brett Scott and Dr. Katie Dabrowski break down why real rehab should look like smart strength training—simple, heavy, progressive, and built to make you more resilient, not fragile.TakeawaysRehab should look very similar to training.Exercise is often underdosed and overcomplicated in rehab.Strength training is crucial for improving quality of life.Women are increasingly recognizing the importance of strength training.Pain is a normal part of being human and should not be over-medicalized.Healthcare professionals need to collaborate rather than compete.The only exercise that matters is the one that clients will actually do.Understanding pain requires a holistic approach that includes both physical and psychological factors.Healthcare providers should be curious and ask more questions to improve patient care.Creating long-term relationships with clients involves setting clear expectations and goals.Chapters00:00- Introduction and Background01:36- The Hybrid Model of Rehab and Training05:07- The Importance of Strength in Rehab09:21- Changing Perspectives on Strength Training12:24- The Role of Physicians in Rehab14:47- Fear of Inactivity vs. Fear of Exercise16:52- Understanding Pain and Movement20:31- Navigating Injuries and Recovery25:17- The Complexity of Pain Science27:26- Understanding Pain and Functionality29:55- The Importance of Individualized Care32:41- Personal Experience and Patient Empathy36:15- The Role of Curiosity in Patient Care39:00- Collaboration in Healthcare42:36- Bridging the Gap Between PTs and Trainers46:33- Navigating Scope and Collaboration in Health Professions50:08- Creating Long-Term Client Relationships

Dr. Brett Scott talks with Dr. Lisa Lewis about psychology of training, motivational interviewing, and setting boundaries to stay energized as a coach.TakeawaysTrainers often lack training in communication and psychology.Understanding client limitations is crucial for effective coaching.Motivational interviewing helps clients open up about their challenges.Heart rate variability can provide insights into emotional well-being.Competing demands can hinder clients' fitness goals.The stages of change model is essential for guiding clients.Internal motivation is more sustainable than external rewards.Trainers should align fitness goals with clients' personal values.Clients need encouragement during the action stage of change.Relapse is a common part of the behavior change process. Intrinsic motivation is the highest level of motivation.Gamification can make fitness routines more enjoyable.Coaches need to understand individual client preferences.Self-sabotage is a common barrier to fitness success.Honesty in coaching fosters better client relationships.Resistance and negativity are natural in the coaching process.Burnout is prevalent in the fitness industry.Irritability can be a sign of burnout.Self-care is crucial for fitness professionals.Setting boundaries with clients is essential for sustainability.Chapters00:00- Introduction to Motivation and Psychology in Fitness03:10- Identifying Gaps in Fitness Training06:00- Understanding Client Limitations and Communication08:52- The Role of Motivational Interviewing11:53- Heart Rate Variability and Emotional Well-being15:08- Competing Demands in Client Goals17:54- Stages of Change in Client Progress21:03- Motivation: Internal vs. External24:01- Developing Internal Motivation28:21- The Power of Intrinsic Motivation29:21- Gamification in Fitness: Making Exercise Fun32:10- Understanding Client Barriers to Success34:43- The Role of Honesty in Coaching Relationships40:16- Navigating Resistance and Negativity in Coaching44:35- Preventing Burnout in Fitness Professionals

Dr. Brett Scott sits down in-person with Dr. Keith Rode to break down shockwave therapy—how it “unsticks” chronic pain, speeds acute injury recovery, and why it’s changing what’s possible in rehab.TakeawaysShockwave therapy can help patients who have not responded to traditional treatments.The technology can significantly reduce recovery time for acute injuries.Shockwave therapy stimulates a healthy inflammatory response to promote healing.It has a high success rate for conditions like plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinopathy.EMTT is a newer technology that complements shockwave therapy.Both shockwave and EMTT can enhance athletic performance and recovery.The effectiveness of shockwave therapy is supported by a growing body of research.There is a need for regulation in the use of shockwave therapy devices.The technology is non-invasive with minimal side effects.Shockwave therapy is being explored for various conditions beyond musculoskeletal issues. The effectiveness of shockwave therapy relies on proper application and understanding.Many practitioners misuse shockwave therapy, leading to poor patient outcomes.Real-life patient transformations showcase the potential of shockwave therapy.Education and training are crucial for practitioners using shockwave technology.Shockwave therapy can help patients avoid surgeries and improve their quality of life.The technology has revolutionized Brett's practice and patient care.Proper technique and knowledge of the technology are essential for success.Patients often experience significant improvements in strength and mobility after treatment.The future of shockwave therapy looks promising for various medical conditions.Brett has helped over 300 patients avoid surgery through shockwave therapy.Chapters00:00- Introduction to Shockwave Therapy and Its Origins07:13- Mechanisms and Benefits of Shockwave Therapy14:54- Applications and Effectiveness of Shockwave Therapy22:20- Emerging Technologies: EMTT and Its Synergy with Shockwave30:04- The Future of Shockwave Therapy and Its Regulation35:31- Understanding Shockwave Therapy's Effectiveness41:44- Real-Life Transformations with Shockwave Therapy47:58- The Importance of Proper Application and Technique54:19- The Future of Shockwave Therapy and Its Applications

A raw, science-backed conversation on advanced maternal age, fertility myths, and why women deserve better information—not fear—when deciding if and when to have kids.Takeaways:Dr. Danielle Day reflects on her journey to motherhood at 47.She emphasizes the importance of health and wellness in advanced maternal age.Fertility challenges are common for women over 40, despite being healthy.Misconceptions about risks associated with age in pregnancy persist.Healthcare protocols often treat older mothers as high-risk without considering individual health.Fitness and nutrition play a crucial role in pregnancy and postpartum recovery.Breastfeeding can be challenging, especially for older mothers.Community support is vital for older parents navigating parenthood.The term 'geriatric pregnancy' is outdated and misleading.Having children later in life can lead to increased motivation for self-care and longevity. Family building is evolving with different lenses.Biology does not define family; community does.Choosing the donor path can be a practical decision.Understanding the donor egg process is crucial.Genetic testing can provide insights but is not foolproof.Age significantly impacts fertility and reproductive options.Exercise plays a vital role in fertility and pregnancy health.Nutrition is often overlooked in prenatal care.Strength training is essential for long-term health.Maintaining personal goals is important for mothers.Chapters:00:00- Introduction to Geriatric Pregnancy02:49- Personal Journey: From Reluctance to Parenthood06:01- Health and Wellness Considerations09:14- Understanding Fertility and Age12:07- The Impact of Lifestyle on Fertility15:00- Navigating Medical Protocols and Guidelines18:12- Women's Health and Fertility Issues20:56- The Role of Healthcare Providers24:04- Expectations vs. Reality in IVF27:08- Conclusion and Final Thoughts35:25- Embracing Fitness During Pregnancy38:11- The Postpartum Journey: Recovery and Realities40:33- Breastfeeding Challenges and Expectations46:02- Advanced Maternal Age: Myths and Realities54:20- Navigating Donor Conception: A Personal Journey01:01:16- The Importance of Communication in Family Dynamics01:04:15- Understanding Egg Freezing and IVF Processes01:10:51- Understanding IVF and Egg Donation01:15:36- Genetic Testing and Pregnancy Risks01:16:05- The Role of Exercise in Fertility01:19:18- Gestational Diabetes and Long-term Health01:22:03- The Impact of Age and Lifestyle on Pregnancy01:26:01- Nutrition and Healthcare Gaps01:30:16- Personal Health and Pregnancy Experiences01:35:55- Empowerment Through Strength Training01:39:13- Innovations in Breastfeeding Solutions01:42:55- Mindset and Personal Growth