Self-Selecting

Cory Hageman

A podcast on everything under the umbrella of nutrition, training, PEDs, bodybuilding, and maybe the occasional non-fitness add-on with @cory_fit

  1. 3 days ago

    BONUS: When Should You Lower Calories for Fat Loss?

    Should you lower your calories when fat loss stalls? In this episode, I break down the decision-making framework I use with clients before ever reducing food. I explain why most people lower calories too quickly, the three data points you need before making any adjustment, and how inaccurate food tracking, poor adherence, and dietary fatigue often create the illusion of a plateau. I also cover how to evaluate your weekly weight trends, when a slower rate of fat loss is actually a good sign, why sustainability matters more than creating the largest possible deficit, and how to know whether lowering food will actually move you closer to your goal. If you're wondering whether it's time to eat less—or if you're simply guessing—this episode will help you make smarter fat loss decisions based on data instead of emotions. Timestamps: - [00:00 – 02:40] – The 3 Data Points Before Lowering Calories - [02:40 – 05:12] – Why Weekly Weight Averages Matter - [05:12 – 06:56] – Can You Sustain a Bigger Calorie Deficit? - [06:56 – 08:36] – Fat Loss Is Slow: Tighten Tracking Before Lowering Food - [08:36 – 10:41] – Dietary Fatigue & Knowing When to End a Diet - [10:41 – 12:37] – How Many Calories Do Most Women Lose Weight On? - [12:37 – 14:58] – When You Should (And Shouldn't) Lower Food Links & Resources: Purchase The Complete Fat Loss Guide: https://coryfit.com/product/the-complete-fat-loss-guide/ Purchase The Glute Building Blueprint: https://coryfit.com/product/the-complete-glute-building-program/ https://coryfit.com/ Coaching: Let's Chat⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15min Consults: Book a Call⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultation For more content, follow along:⁠Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/cory_fit/ Patreon⁠: https://patreon.com/CoryFit?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

  2. 10 Jul

    E. 173 How To Use GLP-1s Without Losing Muscle or Regaining Weight | Dr. Christle Guevarra

    GLP-1 medications have completely changed the conversation around fat loss—but are they actually the right tool for you? In this episode, I sit down with family and sports medicine physician Dr. Christle Guevarra to explore the science, misconceptions, and real-world application of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and tirzepatide. We discuss how these medications influence hunger, food noise, reward pathways, and long-term behavior change, while also addressing common concerns surrounding muscle loss, dosing, training performance, libido, gray market peptides, and what happens after coming off the medication. Whether you're considering GLP-1s yourself, coaching clients who use them, or simply want an evidence-based understanding of these medications, this conversation provides the nuance that's often missing online. Timestamps: - [00:00 – 05:04] – Dr. Christle Guevarra's Background & Why GLP-1 Medications Changed Weight Loss - [05:04 – 10:09] – How GLP-1s Reduce Food Noise & Reward-Driven Eating - [10:09 – 19:12] – Scarcity Mindset, Food Behaviors & Who Benefits Most - [19:12 – 23:17] – Finding The Right GLP-1 Dose Without Sacrificing Nutrition - [23:17 – 26:27] – Why Aggressive Fat Loss & Oversized Deficits Backfire - [26:27 – 31:08] – Muscle Building, Staying Lean & Using GLP-1s Beyond Fat Loss - [31:08 – 32:40] – Building Sustainable Habits Before Coming Off Medication - [32:40 – 37:20] – What Happens After GLP-1s? Maintaining Results Long-Term - [37:20 – 41:59] – Setting Realistic Expectations & Understanding Your Fat Loss Goals - [41:59 – 51:21] – When GLP-1s May Cause More Harm Than Good - [51:21 – 54:49] – Women's Libido, Dieting & GLP-1 Side Effects - [54:49 – 1:00:50] – Gray Market GLP-1s, Retatrutide & Emerging Research - [1:00:50 – 1:04:59] – GLP-1s, Substance Use Disorders & Final Takeaways Links & Resources: Follow Dr. Christle Guevarra: https://www.instagram.com/dr.christle/?hl=en Access The FREE GLP-1 Guide: https://drchristle.com/ Purchase The Complete Fat Loss Guide: https://coryfit.com/product/the-complete-fat-loss-guide/ Purchase The Glute Building Blueprint: https://coryfit.com/product/the-complete-glute-building-program/ https://coryfit.com/ ⁠Coaching: Let's Chat⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15min ⁠Consults: Book a Call⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultation For more content, follow along:⁠Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/cory_fit/ ⁠Patreon⁠: https://patreon.com/CoryFit?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

  3. 26 Jun

    E. 170 IVF After Bodybuilding: Chanel Collette's Fertility & Pregnancy Journey

    In this episode, I sit down with Chanel Collette to discuss her journey through infertility, IVF, women's health, bodybuilding, and pregnancy. We explore the realities of trying to conceive after a long competitive career, misconceptions surrounding bodybuilding and fertility, the emotional and physical challenges of IVF, advocating for your health, and what it means to navigate pregnancy while building a business. Chanel shares her experience with hypothyroidism, elevated prolactin, a pituitary adenoma diagnosis, fertility treatments, IVF setbacks, and ultimately achieving a successful pregnancy. We also discuss the importance of finding the right healthcare providers, understanding fertility testing, and balancing health, career, and motherhood. Whether you're pursuing bodybuilding, navigating fertility challenges, considering IVF, or simply interested in women's health and family planning, this episode provides an honest look into the realities of the journey. Timestamps: - [00:00 – 02:26] - Chanel's Pregnancy Update, IVF Success & Entering Motherhood - [02:26 – 05:36] - What IVF Is, Fertility Basics & Family Planning After 35 - [05:36 – 10:47] - Does Bodybuilding Cause Infertility? Competing, PEDs & Reproductive Health - [10:47 – 16:15] - Fear, Fertility Awareness & The Emotional Reality of IVF - [16:15 – 19:04] - IVF Challenges, Medication Management & Advocating For Yourself - [19:04 – 24:04] - Hypothyroidism, Elevated Prolactin & Discovering A Pituitary Adenoma - [24:04 – 30:05] - Fertility Treatment, Surgery, IUI, IVF & Creating A Viable Embryo - [30:05 – 35:40] - IVF Results, Pituitary Tumors, Peptides & Women's Health Risks - [35:40 – 40:03] - Cabergoline, Dopamine Changes, Anxiety & Managing Prolactin - [40:03 – 44:40] - Pregnancy After IVF, Managing Risk & Remaining Hopeful - [44:40 – 48:11] - Finding The Right Medical Team & Self-Advocacy In Healthcare - [48:11 – 55:25] - IVF Transfer Process, Embryo Testing & Early Pregnancy Changes - [55:25 – 01:00:06] - Coaching, Business Ownership & Preparing For Motherhood - [01:00:06 – 01:05:14] - Birth Plans, Future Goals, Strong State Coaching & Final Reflections Links & Resources: Follow Chanel on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chanelcollette/?hl=en Work With Chanel: https://linktr.ee/chanelcollette?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=7f29d77a-e2e6-439e-b614-34395a58cf0f Purchase The Complete Fat Loss Guide: https://coryfit.com/product/the-complete-fat-loss-guide/ Purchase The Glute Building Blueprint: https://coryfit.com/product/the-complete-glute-building-program/ https://coryfit.com/ Coaching: Let's Chat⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15min Consults: Book a Call⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultation For more content, follow along:⁠Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/cory_fit/ ⁠Patreon⁠: https://patreon.com/CoryFit?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

  4. 17 Apr

    E. 155 How to Prevent Burnout in Bodybuilding Prep With Phoebe Hagan

    In this episode, I sit down with Phoebe Hagan to break down her journey through extreme bodybuilding burnout, how she rebuilt her relationship with the sport, and what’s fueled her comeback season. We dive into the real signs of burnout most athletes ignore, why taller bikini competitors need more muscle density, and how small training adjustments can completely change your physique. Phoebe shares how switching to macros improved her adherence, mindset, and longevity in prep, and why bodybuilding doesn’t have to be constant suffering to be successful. We also cover judge feedback, peak week strategy, and how giving yourself enough time to prep can make or break your results. Timestamps: - [00:00 – 02:00] – Phoebe Hagan intro + insane comeback season recap - [02:00 – 06:30] – Bodybuilding burnout story + losing passion for competing - [06:30 – 12:50] – Signs of burnout in bodybuilding (when to step away) - [12:50 – 16:50] – Why tall bikini competitors need more muscle density - [16:50 – 21:00] – Training strategies that created a competitive edge - [21:00 – 22:20] – Unilateral training, symmetry & injury prevention - [22:20 – 26:15] – Mid-prep training adjustments that changed her physique - [26:15 – 33:45] – This prep vs past preps (macros, flexibility, adherence) - [33:45 – 40:00] – Macros vs meal plans (avoid becoming a “robot” in prep) - [40:00 – 42:30] – Coaching mistakes: lack of communication & education - [42:30 – 46:30] – Does bodybuilding have to be suffering? (mindset shift) - [46:30 – 56:20] – Judge feedback, peak week strategy & physique refinement - [56:20 – 01:03:01] – Why giving yourself enough time to prep is critical Links & Resources: Follow Phoebe on Instagram: @phoebehagan_ Join The Posing Portal: https://theposingportal.com/home/ Purchase The Glute Building Blueprint: https://coryfit.com/product/the-complete-glute-building-program/ https://coryfit.com/ ⁠Coaching: Let's Chat⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15min ⁠Consults: Book a Call⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultation For more content, follow along:⁠Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/cory_fit/ ⁠Patreon⁠: https://patreon.com/CoryFit?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

  5. 3 Apr

    E. 152 How to Fix Your Sleep, Manage Stress & Optimize Recovery for Performance (Dr. Andy Galpin)

    In this episode, I sat down with Dr. Andy Galpin to break down what actually drives performance—and why sleep is often the most overlooked limiter. We dive into how performance is always individualized, but sleep consistently shows up as the biggest bottleneck. We unpack common sleep misconceptions, how to improve it without unrealistic routines, and why behavior change—not more information—is the real solution. We also cover caffeine, nicotine, downregulation, and stress management, along with practical frameworks like the quadrant model and allostatic load, so you can better understand where your recovery is actually breaking down. Timestamps: - [00:00 – 02:30] – Andy’s background. - [02:31 – 05:08] – The biggest performance pillar. - [05:09 – 11:51] – Common sleep misconceptions. - [11:52 – 21:47] – How to assess poor sleep. - [21:48 – 23:30] – Managing caffeine intake: timing vs dosage. - [23:31 – 27:55] – Nicotine as a substitute for caffeine. - [27:56 – 30:49] – Learning to shift into a parasympathetic state. - [30:50 – 33:32] – Creating boundaries around sleep. - [33:33 – 36:14] – The quadrant model. - [36:15 – 39:38] – The rule of recovery vs training. - [39:39 – 48:09] – Allostatic load explained. - [48:10 – 52:25] – Managing sleep with kids, chaos, and unpredictable routines. - [52:26 – 56:47] – Sleep disruptions from partners and how to identify hidden issues like undiagnosed sleep disorders. - [56:48 – 01:02:22] – Travel and sleep. Links & Resources: Follow Dr. Andy Galpin on Instagram: @drandygalpin Connect With Dr. Andy Galpin: https://www.andygalpin.com/ Purchase The Glute Building Blueprint: https://coryfit.com/product/the-complete-glute-building-program/ https://coryfit.com/ Coaching: Let's Chat⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15min ⁠Consults: Book a Call⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultation For more content, follow along:⁠Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/cory_fit/ ⁠Patreon⁠: https://patreon.com/CoryFit?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

  6. 30 Mar

    E. 151 Bodybuilding Q&A: PEDs, Fat Loss Mistakes & Training Tips

    In this Q&A episode, I answer some of the most common questions around PED use, contest prep, hormones, fat loss, and training execution. I break down the nuance behind topics like GLP-1s, TRT, Fit Model vs Bikini, and how to actually assess progress without overcomplicating it. I also dive into real-world coaching scenarios—covering diet adherence, cravings, recomp myths, and training mistakes—to help you make better decisions whether you're a competitor or lifestyle client. This episode is a raw, practical look at how I think through complex topics in bodybuilding, performance, and long-term progress. Timestamps: - [00:00 – 04:44] – Spironolactone and muscle growth + thoughts on Fit Model vs Bikini and competing priorities. - [04:45 – 10:41] – PED considerations for Crohn’s, preserving hormones in prep, and managing stress, sleep, and recovery. - [10:42 – 17:11] – Low estrogen, PMDD risks, L-carnitine use, and why waist trainers don’t work. - [17:12 – 24:42] – Melanotan safety, coaching costs, and realistic expectations for investing in coaching. - [24:43 – 30:53] – Retatrutide timing in prep, becoming an IFBB pro, and long-term muscle building strategy. - [30:54 – 35:47] – Training for aesthetics vs modeling, reducing muscularity, and lifestyle vs competitor coaching. - [35:48 – 39:08] – Anavar, TRT, restoring hormones, and managing stress vs relying on HRT. - [39:09 – 43:27] – Fit Model vs Bikini after Japan Pro + how I assess when to adjust calories or training. - [43:28 – 47:49] – Recomp markers, strength progression, and what actually indicates progress. - [47:50 – 52:50] – Managing cravings, adherence strategies, and controlling impulsive eating behaviors. - [52:51 – 59:00] – Structuring growth → maintenance → fat loss phases and common misconceptions. - [59:01 – 01:04:33] – Training execution questions, core stability, adherence resources, and overcoming macro-related guilt. - [01:04:34 – 01:07:19] – Training program adjustments and how often to rotate based on progress. Links & Resources: Purchase The Glute Building Blueprint: https://coryfit.com/product/the-complete-glute-building-program/ https://coryfit.com/ ⁠Coaching: Let's Chat⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15min ⁠Consults: Book a Call⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultation For more content, follow along:⁠Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/cory_fit/ ⁠Patreon⁠: https://patreon.com/CoryFit?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

  7. 23 Mar

    E. 150 How to Create the Perfect Fat Loss Deficit (Calories vs Cardio Explained)

    In this episode, I break down the framework I use to create an effective fat loss deficit without destroying recovery, training performance, or long-term adherence. I walk through why understanding your baseline maintenance intake and activity is essential before starting a diet, and how your available “runway” for adjustments determines whether calories or cardio should be manipulated first. Using four real-world scenarios, I explain the common mistakes people make when dieting—like relying too heavily on cardio, under-reporting food, or pushing a deficit too aggressively. The goal of fat loss shouldn’t be to apply the most pressure possible, but to create a strategic, sustainable deficit that preserves muscle, performance, and adherence. Timestamps: - [00:00 – 04:13] – Why fat loss requires a strategic deficit. - [04:14 – 06:25] – Finding your baseline maintenance intake and activity. - [06:26 – 09:39] – Defining your “runway.” - [09:40 – 12:19] – Deciding whether to increase cardio or decrease calories. - [12:20 – 13:48] – Why psychological calorie thresholds matter. - [13:49 – 16:58] – Scenario 1. - [16:59 – 20:00] – Scenario 2. - [20:01 – 24:24] – Scenario 3. - [24:25 – 27:34] – Scenario 4. - [27:35 – 29:24] – Why extremely low calorie targets often create unnecessary dietary fatigue. - [29:25 – 32:19] – When weight loss stalls. - [32:20 – 35:59] – How excessive deficits affect sleep, recovery, training performance, and muscle preservation during fat loss phases. - [36:00 – 39:14] – When it’s time to stop dieting and why pushing to get leaner isn’t always beneficial for physique or long-term progress. Links & Resources: Purchase The Glute Building Blueprint: https://coryfit.com/product/the-complete-glute-building-program/ https://coryfit.com/ ⁠Coaching: Let's Chat⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15min ⁠Consults: Book a Call⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultation For more content, follow along:⁠Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/cory_fit/ ⁠Patreon⁠: https://patreon.com/CoryFit?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

  8. 20 Mar

    E. 149 Ashley Kaltwasser on Bikini Division Changes, Fit Model & What It Takes to Stay Competitive

    In this episode, I sit down with Ashley Kaltwasser to talk about what it really takes to stay competitive in today’s bikini division. We cover how the standard has evolved, why more upper body and overall density are now required, and how conditioning, judges’ feedback, and long-term patience all shape success at the pro level. We also get into the new Fit Model division, the bikini points system, competing soon after turning pro, post-show food decisions, and why staying closer to stage weight can make prep more productive. This is a great conversation for competitors, coaches, and athletes trying to understand the realities of bikini bodybuilding, improvement seasons, and pro-level longevity. Timestamps: - [00:00 – 02:54] – Intro to Ashley Kaltwasser. - [02:55 – 09:28] – When it became clear significant physique changes were needed to stay competitive. - [09:29 – 13:21] – The growth of upper body development, changing conditioning expectations, and how even small shifts matter at the top level. - [13:22 – 16:23] – Taking judges’ feedback without a negative attitude. - [16:24 – 22:20] – Ashley’s reaction to the Fit Model division. - [22:21 – 25:23] – Lessons from early Fit Model judging. - [25:24 – 30:57] – Thoughts on the bikini pro points system. - [30:58 – 36:10] – Why new pros should compete soon after earning their card, plus Ashley’s recent feedback and current areas of focus. - [36:11 – 39:01] – Shows Ashley has on her radar. - [39:02 – 42:31] – Common challenges Ashley sees in athletes she works with. - [42:32 – 48:58] – Her mentality around adherence outside of prep, intuitive eating, and maintaining structure without being overly rigid year-round. - [48:59 – 52:03] – Post-show meals and the cost of bingeing. - [52:04 – 56:29] – Weight gain between shows, muscle maturity, and why more bodyweight isn’t always the answer for bikini improvement. Links & Resources: Follow Ashley on Instagram: @ashleykfit Work With Ashley: https://teamelitephysique.com/ashley-kaltwasser Purchase The Glute Building Blueprint: https://coryfit.com/product/the-complete-glute-building-program/ https://coryfit.com/ ⁠Coaching: Let's Chat⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15min ⁠Consults: Book a Call⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultation For more content, follow along:⁠Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/cory_fit/ ⁠Patreon⁠: https://patreon.com/CoryFit?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

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About

A podcast on everything under the umbrella of nutrition, training, PEDs, bodybuilding, and maybe the occasional non-fitness add-on with @cory_fit

Information

  • Creator
    Cory Hageman
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    177
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Cory Hageman
  • Show Website
    Self-Selecting

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