Episode 192: Top 3 Kettlebell Exercises to Include in Your Exercise Routine: An interview with Mike Kurkowski from The Strength Connection

In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I sit down with Aaron Straker for a deep dive into his journey from natural bodybuilding to the enhanced side of the sport. We talk openly about the trade-offs, risks, and insights he's gained along the way—including the use of compounds like testosterone and growth hormone.We also get into the mental and physical shifts that come with that transition, and how Aaron approaches training, nutrition, and recovery with intention. He shares his thoughts on everything from sauna use to how he stays grounded while optimizing performance. Whether you're just curious or seriously considering the enhanced route, this episode offers a nuanced, no-BS perspective.Sponsors:Tecton Life Ketone drink! https://tectonlife.com/ DRMIKE to save 20%LMNT electrolyte drink mix: miketnelsonlmnt.comDaily Fitness Insider Newsletter: https://flex-diet.kit.com/bfa1510fa8Flex 4: Aaron's top 4 factors to consider before starting TRT or PEDsTriphasic 2 book now available!Go to https://triphasic2.com/Episode Chapters:06:01 Aaron's Life in Bali10:33 Natural vs Enhanced Bodybuilding17:13 Aaron's Journey and Training Insights34:40 Health Concerns and Blood Pressure Monitoring35:36 Mind-Muscle Connection and Nervous System Effects38:30 Diet and Macros During Training Phases42:07 Challenges of High-Calorie Diets43:29 PEDs and Their Impact on Training and Recovery51:51 Sauna Use and Recovery Protocols56:35 Individual Responses to PEDs59:14 Mental and Emotional Effects of PEDs01:04:37 Podcast Conclusion and Final ThoughtsFlex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy: Episode 216: Building a successful online fitness coaching business: An Interview with Aaron Straker Episode 185: Are more top bodybuilders dying early? Extreme bodybuilding methods – risks and rewards: a conversation w/ Dr Guillermo EscalanteConnect with Aaron: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aaron_strakerPodcast: https://www.eattrainprosper.com/Website: https://strakernutritionco.com/coaching-services/Get In Touch with Dr Mike:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpg

In this episode of Iron Radio, hosts Coach Phil Stevens, Dr. Mike Nelson, Coach Jerell, and Dr. Lonnie Lowery discuss recent studies on the impact of cold water immersion on muscle protein synthesis and recovery. Dr. Nelson shares insights from a study published in March 2025, examining how post-exercise cooling affects blood flow and amino acid incorporation into muscle tissue. The team debates the pros and cons of cold water immersion, particularly for muscle hypertrophy and recovery, and shares personal experiences and practical applications. Later, they delve into the mind-muscle connection, exploring its use in both bodybuilding and strength training, and how to effectively incorporate this technique into workouts. The conversation wraps up with a discussion on posing in bodybuilding and how internal and external cues affect performance.Episode Chapters:01:16 Muscle Protein Synthesis and Cold Water Immersion08:18 Practical Applications and Public Perception22:53 Iron Radio Updates and Announcements25:16 Mind-Muscle Connection: Bodybuilders vs. Athletes31:08 Effective Rowing Techniques31:48 The Importance of Slowing Down35:21 Mind-Muscle Connection39:11 Neural Reeducation Insights46:01 Practical Tips for Strength Athletes51:26 Posing and Performance in BodybuildingDonate to the show via PayPal HERE.You can also join Dr Mike's Insider Newsletter for more info on how to add muscle, improve your performance and body comp - all without destroying your health, go to www.ironradiodrmike.com Thank you!Phil, Jerrell, Mike T, and Lonnie

Welcome back to the Flex Diet Podcast. I’m Dr. Mike T. Nelson, and today I’m joined by my good friend and colleague, Dr. Mike Ormsbee. We’re digging deep into how to optimize metabolism using strategies from the Flex Diet Certification, as well as why both aerobic and resistance training are crucial for long-term success.We also delve into some advanced topics, such as how growth hormone and lipolysis contribute to effective fat utilization, and how cutting-edge techniques like microdialysis enable us to study metabolism at a local level. Along the way, we hit on key concepts like fat metabolism, body composition changes, and even how evening eating affects the process.We’ll share insights from some of the studies we’re working on now, and why combining resistance training with smart nutrition could be the game-changer you’re looking for. Hope you enjoy this deep dive into the science (and practice) of fitness and health!Sponsors:Tecton Life Ketone drink! https://tectonlife.com/ DRMIKE to save 20%LMNT electrolyte drink mix: miketnelsonlmnt.comDaily Fitness Insider Newsletter: https://flex-diet.kit.com/bfa1510fa8Flex 4: Dr Ormsbee's top four things to do to maximize fat lossTriphasic 2 book now available!Go to https://triphasic2.com/Episode Chapters:03:07 Informal Conversation Kickoff05:22 Academia and Personal Branding07:08 Cardio for Meatheads09:01 Resistance Training and Fat Metabolism17:26 Body Composition Studies27:02 Obesity and Exercise Response29:04 Exploring Alpha Receptors and Him Buying29:32 Resistance Training and Obesity30:33 Growth Hormone and Insulin Responses31:23 Body Fat and Athletic Performance32:00 Triathletes and Body Fat Analysis32:52 Resistance Training vs. Aerobic Training33:07 NIH Grant and Current Study33:28 Lipolysis and Fat Loss Mechanisms35:43 Muscle and Fat Tissue Communication37:35 Resistance Training and Fat Loss43:11 Eating in the Evening: Myths and Facts46:23 Protein Intake and Sleep51:00 Future Research Directions52:45 Conclusion and Final Thoughts.Flex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy:  Episode 209: How to achieve your fat loss goals while not overly restrictive: an interview with the author of “You Can’t Screw This Up,” Adam BornsteinEpisode 173: High-Level Nutrition and Programming for Fat Loss: Dr. Pat Davidson with Dr. Mike T NelsonConnect with Dr. Ormsbee: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikeormsbeeCourse: https://www.thegreatcoursesplus.com/changing-body-composition-through-diet-and-exerciseInstitute of Sports Science and Medicine: https://annescollege.fsu.edu/resources/institute-sports-sciences-and-medicineGet In Touch with Dr Mike:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpgEmail: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/

Welcome back to the Flex Diet Podcast! I’m Dr. Mike T. Nelson, and in this episode, I sit down with Dr. Hemal Patel, Chief Scientific Advisor to Discovery and the brilliant mind behind the ME screen blood test for mitochondrial function.We dive into Dr. Patel’s fascinating journey into the world of mitochondrial research, how mitochondria impact everything from metabolism to resilience, and why he developed a personalized blood test to better understand mitochondrial health. We also get into some really cool topics like how heat and cold exposure affect your mitochondria, the intersection of meditation and cellular health, and even the emerging role psychedelics might play in this space.Dr. Patel also shares his top tips for optimizing mitochondrial function and explains the science behind this cutting-edge testing method. If you're curious about performance, longevity, or just want to geek out on mitochondria with two scientists, this episode is for you. Let’s dig in.Sponsors:Tecton Life Ketone drink! https://tectonlife.com/ DRMIKE to save 20%LMNT electrolyte drink mix: miketnelsonlmnt.comDaily Fitness Insider Newsletter: https://flex-diet.kit.com/bfa1510fa8Flex 4: Dr. Patel's top 4 recommendations to improve mitochondriaTriphasic 2 book now available!Go to https://triphasic2.com/Episode Chapters:05:51 Dr. Patel's Journey into Mitochondrial Research08:34 Heat and Cold Stress in Mitochondrial Function12:18 Mitochondrial Function and Health19:50 Innovative Mitochondrial Testing31:05 Understanding Mitochondrial Respiration31:20 Testing Mitochondrial Efficiency31:51 Energy Production Pathways32:24 Free Radical Generation and Stress Testing32:58 Exercise Physiology and Mitochondria33:50 Personalized Mitochondrial Health Recommendations33:59 The Complexity of Mitochondrial Adaptation37:28 The Role of Membranes in Mitochondrial Health38:49 Oxygen's Dual Role in Life and Aging41:05 Preconditioning and Cardiovascular Health43:07 Hypoxic Training and Breath Work43:50 Meditation and Mitochondrial Function48:03 Psychedelics and Mitochondrial Changes54:33 Practical Tips for Mitochondrial Health56:12 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsFlex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy: Episode 164: How to use diagnostic testing to improve your metabolic health: An Interview with Sam MillerEpisode 190: Let’s Get Woo Woo – From Physics To Scientific Testing To Exercise Performance with Ian Mitchell of Wizard SciencesConnect with Dr. Patel: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hemalpatelphd/Website: https://mescreen.com/Enter code DRMIKE to save $100 - I don't make a dime off it. I would love to hear what you find, so hit me up if you try it!Get In Touch with Dr Mike:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpgEmail: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/

Join me, Dr. Mike T. Nelson, on this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast as I sit down with peptide expert Anthony Castore for a deep dive into the world of peptides and performance. We cover everything from what peptides actually are to how they may support recovery, muscle growth, and immune function. We also explore the difference between standard peptides and bioregulators—plus how I’ve personally used compounds like BPC-157, Thymosin Beta-4, and ketone esters (including brands like Teton and KetoneAid) in my own routines.Anthony brings some fantastic insights on sourcing quality peptides, proper hydration protocols, and the latest in supplement strategies to enhance your health and performance.If you’re curious about the science behind these compounds and how to potentially integrate them into your training and recovery toolkit, you won’t want to miss this one.Sponsors:Tecton Life Ketone drink! https://tectonlife.com/ DRMIKE to save 20%LMNT electrolyte drink mix: miketnelsonlmnt.comDaily Fitness Insider Newsletter: https://flex-diet.kit.com/bfa1510fa8Triphasic 2 book now available!Go to https://triphasic2.com/Episode Chapters:05:40 Welcoming Anthony Castore to the Podcast05:50 Understanding Peptides and Their Applications08:52 Bio Regulators and Epigenetics15:23 Peptides for Joint Health and Aging22:03 Thymosin Alpha One and Immune Surveillance24:25 Ketone Esters and Their Benefits27:12 NAD Supplements and Alternatives31:10 Understanding the Benefits of ENOS Pathway and Nitric Oxide31:34 Comparing 5-Amino-1MQ and 1MNA for Athletes32:25 Resveratrol and Antioxidants: Benefits and Misconceptions34:02 The Role of Inflammation and Antioxidants in Exercise35:14 Exploring Astaxanthin and Its Benefits36:09 Ketone Supplements: Dosage and Effects44:51 Mercury Poisoning: A Personal Experience52:31 The Importance of Hydration and Peptide Efficacy01:03:15 Final Thoughts and Upcoming EventsFlex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy: Episode 144: Peptides – Bleeding Edge Performance, Muscle, and Recovery with Dr. Andy Galpin & Dr. Ryan GreeneEpisode 152: Testosterone, Muscle Mass, Cortisol, Collagen for Soft Tissue Repair an Interview with Dr Keith BaarConnect with Anthony: Castoremethod: https://www.castoremethod.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anthonycastoreGet In Touch with Dr Mike:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpgEmail: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/

Join me, Dr. Mike T Nelson, as I sit down with Dr. Guillermo Escalante on this week's episode of the Flex Diet Podcast to explore the fascinating potential of GAA (Guanidinoacetic Acid) as a precursor to creatine. We break down what the current research says, how GAA stacks up against creatine monohydrate, and what this could mean for performance and recovery.We also dive into the inner workings of the supplement industry—covering everything from regulation to formulation—and wrap up with a thought-provoking discussion on the upcoming Enhanced Games, a new competition concept that challenges traditional anti-doping rules in the name of transparency and safety.If you’re interested in the future of supplements, performance enhancement, and what’s next for sports science, this episode is one you won’t want to miss.Sponsors:Tecton Life Ketone drink! https://tectonlife.com/ DRMIKE to save 20%LMNT electrolyte drink mix: miketnelsonlmnt.comTriphasic 2 book now available!Go to https://triphasic2.com/Episode Chapters:00:17 Introducing Dr. Guillermo Escalante00:26 Exploring GAA: The Next Creatine?01:28 Supplement Industry Insights01:39 The Enhanced Games: A New Frontier02:15 Upcoming Conferences and Sponsorships04:29 Deep Dive into GAA Research06:32 GAA in Livestock and Human Studies07:30 Creatine and GAA: Mechanisms and Benefits10:23 Safety Concerns and Future Research13:50 Creatine in Sports and Beyond26:06 Supplement Industry Challenges34:03 Enhanced Games: A New Venture34:10 Meeting Dan Turner and Dr. Sr35:05 Consulting for the Enhanced Games36:08 Health and Performance Metrics37:08 Drug Protocols and Athlete Safety38:26 Longevity and General Population Applications41:06 Individual Variability in Drug Response47:28 Logistics and Legal Hurdles51:25 Predictions for the Enhanced Games Flex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy: Episode 185: Are more top bodybuilders dying early? Extreme bodybuilding methods – risks and rewards: a conversation with Dr Guillermo Escalante Episode 296: Enhancing Athletic Performance with Dr. Dani LaMartinaConnect with Guillermo: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctorgfit/Drgfit: https://doctorgfit.com/Get In Touch with Dr Mike:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpgEmail: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/

Welcome back to the Flex Diet Podcast! I'm Dr. Mike T. Nelson, and in this episode, I’m joined by the brilliant Tex from CaptainsAndCoaches.com. We dive deep into the art and science of leadership and coaching—everything from how social media is shaping the coaching world to the growing role of AI, and how to sharpen your prep and execution.Tex brings serious experience to the table, having worked with athletes and coaches at the high school, college, and even NFL level. We also talk about tools to build social awareness and better team dynamics.Sponsors:Tecton Life Ketone drink! https://tectonlife.com/ DRMIKE to save 20%LMNT electrolyte drink mix: miketnelsonlmnt.comTriphasic 2 book now available!Go to https://triphasic2.com/Episode Chapters:05:02 Electrolytes and Ketones Discussion07:32 Interview with Tex: AI in Coaching17:24 Coaching and Conflict Resolution27:30 High School Coaching Challenges32:33 The Power of Sharing Personal Stories33:56 Coaching Scars and Their Impact38:03 The Role of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP)39:59 Motivation Drill: Building Team Spirit42:32 The Importance of EQ in Coaching48:10 Balancing Authority and Relatability53:32 Challenges of High School Coaching56:34 Advice for New Coaches01:00:33 Conclusion and Upcoming EpisodesFlex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy: Episode 305: Mastering Coaching Communication with Brett Bartholomew Episode 260: Real-Talk on Fitness and Nutrition Coaching Success with Ben BrownConnect with Tex: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcquilkinCaptains and Coaches: https://www.captainsandcoaches.com/Get In Touch with Dr Mike:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpgEmail: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/

In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I chat with Dr. Sharon Bergquist about her fascinating new book, The Stress Paradox: Why You Need Stress to Live Longer, Healthier, and Happier. We unpack why not all stress is bad — and how the right kinds, in the right doses, can actually make us stronger and more resilient. We dive into the biochemistry of stress, the different types of stressors, and how they affect cellular health, metabolic flexibility, and longevity.We also explore the role of exercise, supplements, interval training, and environmental stressors like cold and heat exposure. Dr. Bergquist shares insights on how a varied, phytochemical-rich diet supports health and why building stress capacity is critical for long-term well-being.Sponsors:Tecton Life Ketone drink! https://tectonlife.com/ DRMIKE to save 20%LMNT electrolyte drink mix: miketnelsonlmnt.comTriphasic 2 book now available!Go to https://triphasic2.com/Episode Chapters:00:17 Introducing Dr. Sharon Bergquist and Her New Book01:22 The Science of Stress and Longevity01:51 The Role of Supplements and Mitochondrial Health02:34 Sponsor Messages and Product Recommendations03:44 Welcoming Dr. Sharon to the Podcast04:16 Historical Perspective on Stress Research07:07 The Biochemistry of Stress Responses09:50 Modern Lifestyle and the Lack of Stressors15:06 The Importance of Food Variety and Micronutrition17:47 The Benefits of Phytochemicals and Plant Toxins37:52 Cold Exposure and Brown Adipose Tissue42:03 The Metabolic Effects of Cold Water Immersion44:07 Understanding Shivering Thermogenesis45:49 Cold Water Immersion and Fat Loss46:43 Cognitive and Mood Benefits of Cold Exposure52:25 The Role of Supplements in Health58:08 The Importance of Exercise01:00:13 Cardiorespiratory Fitness and Longevity01:07:53 Mitochondrial Health and Exercise01:19:11 The Stress Paradox Book Release Flex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy: Episode 154: Managing High-Stress Situations and Growing from Trauma: An Interview with Kristina Hoyer Episode 225: The Intersection of Fitness, Stress, and Nutrition: A Conversation with Expert Jenny the NutritionistConnect with Dr Bergquist: Website: https://drsharonbergquist.com/The Stress Paradox: https://www.amazon.com/Stress-Paradox-Essential-Management-Mind-Body-Soul-ebook/dp/B0CW13NLBZGet In Touch with Dr Mike:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpgEmail: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/

In this solo episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I’m letting you know that the Physiologic Flexibility Certification is tonight at midnight PST on March 24, 2025. If you’ve been thinking about joining, now’s the time.I also dig into the core of what the cert teaches: how to train your body’s homeostatic regulators like temperature, pH, oxygen, CO₂, ketones, and lactate to improve recovery, build stress resilience, and boost performance. We’ll cover tools like cold water immersion, breathwork, and heat exposure, and I break down the concept of cross adaptations—how training one system can benefit another. I share some cool studies, personal experiences, and walk you through how the cert works.If you want to push your physiology further and build a more adaptable body, this is the episode for you.Sponsors:Tecton Life Ketone drink! https://tectonlife.com/ DRMIKE to save 20%LMNT electrolyte drink mix: miketnelsonlmnt.comPhysiologic Flexibility Certification Course open through March 24, 2025: https://miketnelsons.samcart.com/products/physflex/Episode Chapters:00:24 Physiologic Flexibility Certification Announcement01:12 Understanding Physiologic Flexibility02:10 Adaptations to Environmental Stressors04:08 Cross Adaptation and Research Insights06:08 Cold Water Immersion and Practical Applications06:58 Final Thoughts and Certification Details07:31 Upcoming Podcast and Closing RemarksGet In Touch with Dr Mike:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpgEmail: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/

Join me, Dr Mike T Nelson, on this week's Flex Diet Podcast as I sit down with Jordyn Payne from Advanced Brain Centers of Virginia to dig into the real benefits and applications of IV therapies and Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT). We get into the details of Myers Cocktails, NAD infusions, and other IV treatments—how they can boost brain function, improve performance, and speed up recovery. Jordyn also shares insights on HBOT’s role in treating traumatic brain injuries and concussions, plus how it can be a game-changer for overall brain health. We also discuss the importance of preventative medicine and how to vet IV therapy providers so you don’t waste time (or money) on subpar treatments.Oh, and a quick heads-up—the Physiologic Flexibility Certification is open until March 24, 2025! If you want to level up your knowledge on resilience, recovery, and adaptation, now’s the time to jump in.Sponsors:Tecton Life Ketone drink! https://tectonlife.com/ DRMIKE to save 20%LMNT electrolyte drink mix: miketnelsonlmnt.comPhysiologic Flexibility Certification Course open through March 24, 2025: https://miketnelsons.samcart.com/products/physflex/Triphasic 2 book now available!Go to https://triphasic2.com/Episode Chapters:01:29 IV Therapies and Their Benefits01:57 Physiologic Flexibility Certification05:00 Discussion on Patient Populations07:36 Rise of Preventative Medicine14:09 NAD Infusions: Benefits and Experiences25:07 Combining Therapies for Optimal Results30:05 Exploring Myers Cocktail31:40 Understanding the Myers Cocktail33:33 Choosing the Right IV Therapy Provider38:26 Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Wellness and Performance40:43 Hyperbaric Therapy for Athletes and Brain Injuries48:06 Comparing Soft Shell and Hard Shell Hyperbaric Chambers53:48 Safety and Efficacy of At-Home Hyperbaric Units57:43 Conclusion and Contact InformationFlex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy: Episode 309: Understanding Adaptogens: Boost Performance & Well-being with Dr. Jeremy TownsendEpisode 215: Breathing, Heart Rate, and HRV: An Interview with Dr. Scotty Butcher, The Strength JediConnect with Jordyn: Website: https://www.advancedbraincentersofva.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abcofva/Get In Touch with Dr Mike:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpgEmail: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/