Flex Diet Podcast

Dr. Mike T Nelson
  • 4.9 (52)
  • NUTRITION
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Dr. Mike T Nelson gets geeky with the latest research and scientific findings in the fitness world. Visit www.flexdiet.com to get Flex Diet Certified and www.miketnelson.com for more geeky goodness.

  1. 23H AGO

    Episode 365: Carb Cycling for Performance and Body Comp with Jon Heck

    In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I sit down with strength coach and educator Jon Heck to explore the intricacies of carb cycling. We discuss everything from Jon's personal journey with different dietary approaches, including ketogenic diets and carb cycling, to specific strategies tailored for athletes and general fitness enthusiasts. Highlights include the timing and distribution of carb intake, the role of hydration and electrolytes, and the benefits of structured nutritional planning for optimizing performance and body composition. Whether you're an athlete, coach, or someone looking to improve your nutrition game, you won't want to miss this insightful conversation. Tune in and learn how to make carb cycling work for you.  For part 1 of our discussion is on Jon's Hammer and Chisel Podcast here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3xnVr9_rGMo  Sponsors: Fitness Insider Newsletter: https://miketnelson.com/Available now: Grab a copy of the Triphasic Training II book I co-wrote with Cal Deitz here.Episode Chapters: 02:02 Deep Dive into Carb Cycling06:44 John Heck's Personal Journey with Diets22:31 The Role of Electrolytes and Hydration32:50 Carb Cycling Strategies for Different Goals36:30 Pre-Game Nutrition Strategies37:02 Post-Game Recovery and Low Carb Days38:44 Carbohydrate Timing and Intake40:13 Intra-Workout Nutrition51:04 High Carb and Low Carb Day Strategies01:05:44 Reverse Dieting and Post-Diet Strategies01:10:43 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsFlex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy: Episode 356: How Keto Affects Performance with Dr. Andrew KoutnikYouTube: https://youtu.be/1MuLr6qaBlYEpisode 176: Metabolic Flexibility, Goal-Setting, and Violent Consistency with Adam GlassYouTube: https://youtu.be/XDchcjoz0DQConnect with Jon: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/what_the_heck71/Website: https://hammerchiselperformance.com/Get In Touch with Dr Mike: Instagram: DrmiketnelsonYouTube: @flexdietcertEmail: Miketnelson.com/contact-us

    1h 15m

  2. JAN 26

    Episode 364: Does Cold Water Hurt Your Gains? The Science with Dr. Cas Fuchs

    In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Cas Fuchs from Maastricht University to dive into the science behind cold water immersion. We discuss its impact on muscle recovery, protein synthesis, and overall performance. Dr. Fuchs shares his latest research findings, debunking common myths and providing actionable insights for athletes and fitness enthusiasts. Plus, we touch on the effects of different carbohydrates on glycogen resynthesis and liver function. Whether you're a gym-goer or a seasoned athlete, this episode is packed with valuable information to optimize your training and recovery strategies. Sponsors: Fitness Insider Newsletter: https://miketnelson.com/Available now: Grab a copy of the Triphasic Training II book I co-wrote with Cal Deitz here.Episode Chapters: 02:15 Starting the Discussion with Dr. Fuchs03:05 Research on Cold Water Immersion04:39 Mechanisms and Effects of Cooling on Muscle Recovery12:08 Long-Term Effects of Cold Water Immersion24:01 Comparing Cooling and Heating Protocols32:35 Placebo Effects and Practical Applications37:57 Debunking Cold Water Immersion for Fat Loss41:01 Exploring the Effects of Cold Water Immersion on Endurance41:50 The Role of Temperature in Muscle Physiology42:40 Practical Applications of Cold Water Immersion44:43 The Myth of Cooling Devices for Performance Enhancement48:37 Pre-Exercise Cold Water Immersion: Benefits and Drawbacks50:58 Glycogen Resynthesis and Carbohydrate Types01:02:50 Recent Research on Breakfast and Liver Glycogen01:06:13 Upcoming Studies and Bodybuilder Research01:09:10 Cold Water Immersion Tips for Gym Goers01:10:40 Conclusion and Contact Information Flex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy: Episode 202: Cold water immersion and the body’s regulation systems: An interview with Dr. Dwayne JacksonYouTube: https://youtu.be/3UfPcOJdmIA?si=Vu4FT12Z5gd4JXkxEpisode 344: Metabolic Adaptations, Lactate, and Training Smarter with Dr. Phil BattersonYouTube: https://youtu.be/PPZyO1nxSPA?si=7BjCBIQBbs7srclyConnect with Cas: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/casfuchsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/casfuchsGet In Touch with Dr Mike: Instagram: DrmiketnelsonYouTube: @flexdietcertEmail: Miketnelson.com/contact-us

    1h 16m

  3. JAN 22

    Episode 363: Hypertrophy Training That Actually Works with Ben Mayfield-Smith

    Welcome back to the Flex Diet Podcast! I'm your host, Dr. Mike Nelson. Today, we're diving deep into hypertrophy training with my buddy from down under, Ben Mayfield Smith. We cover a wide range of topics, including his contest prep, hypertrophy techniques, volume and frequency, stretch-based hypertrophy, and even the underrated belt squat for building muscle. Ben shares insights on how to apply different training methods effectively to client coaching. We also discuss the importance of psychological preparation in bodybuilding and sustainable training practices. Whether you're curious about aerobic capacity's role in hypertrophy or looking for tips on evidence-based muscle growth strategies, this podcast has it all. Make sure to check out Ben's work at Matter Athletica and his Instagram for more amazing content. Sponsors: LMNT electrolyte drink mix: miketnelsonlmnt.comFitness Insider Newsletter: https://miketnelson.com/Rogue: https://www.roguefitness.com/Available now: Grab a copy of the Triphasic Training II book I co-wrote with Cal Deitz here.Episode Chapters: 05:00 Ben's Contest Prep Journey06:01 Training Strategies and Techniques13:34 Debating Training Methods and Research28:37 Practical Application of Hypertrophy Research41:21 Stretch-Based Hypertrophy and Training Order42:10 Volume and Load Considerations44:30 Specificity in Training Programs46:49 Lengthened Partials and Exercise Order49:25 Rep Schemes and Muscle Group Responses01:00:01 Secondary Factors in Hypertrophy01:08:54 Single Leg Stability and Heavy Loads01:15:44 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Flex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy: Episode 328: Grit Gains: Building Mental Toughness and Resilience in Training with Ben Mayfield SmithYouTube: https://youtu.be/SsgZ1Tg_gro?si=YsCU0OeGORLW-hMREpisode 293: Optimizing Athletic Performance with Ben Mayfield-SmithYouTube: https://youtu.be/ufLeOox6-ys?si=nGhXE1eGIiS2aAouConnect with Ben: Instagram: @ben_mayfield_smith_Website: www.matterathletica.comGet In Touch with Dr Mike: Instagram: DrmiketnelsonYouTube: @flexdietcertEmail: Miketnelson.com/contact-us

    1h 19m

  4. JAN 12

    Episode 362: Beetroot, Blood Flow, and Freaks of Physiology with Dr. Eric Trexler

    In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I’m joined by my good friend Dr. Eric Trexler, exercise scientist, educator, and Director of Education at Stronger by Science, for a wide-ranging, no-BS conversation on what physiology actually looks like in the real world. We dig into beetroot juice, nitric oxide, and “pump” supplements, why the blood-flow story is usually oversold, and why neuromuscular function and calcium handling may matter far more than chasing a swollen muscle. We also talk about why most supplement mechanisms sound great on paper… and quietly fall apart once you look at healthy humans who already function pretty well. From there, the conversation expands into human variability, elite athletic outliers, and why normal distributions actually guarantee that “freaks” exist — whether people are comfortable admitting it or not. We also unpack NEAT, energy expenditure, and why exercise doesn’t scale linearly for fat loss, including how the body aggressively manages its energy budget when stress or activity gets too high. If you care about performance, body composition, or just understanding how the human system really works, this episode will recalibrate a lot of assumptions. Sponsors: LMNT: http://drinklmnt.com/mikenelson (automatically applied at checkout)Fitness Insider Newsletter: https://miketnelson.com/Shiftwave: https://shiftwave.co/drmiketnelsonEpisode Chapters: 05:01 Diving into Beet Root and Nitrate Research05:58 Mechanisms and Effects of Nitrate Supplements10:14 Challenges and Insights in Supplement Research34:19 Elite Athletes and Physiological Variability43:16 Debating the Value of Outliers in Research44:38 The Importance of Studying Rare Genetic Conditions45:46 Challenges in Grant Writing for Rare Conditions47:39 Blood Flow and Muscle Performance49:14 The Science Behind Muscle Pumps and Hypertrophy56:09 Energy Expenditure and Physical Activity58:02 The Non-Linear Relationship Between Activity and Energy Intake01:01:28 Exercise, Appetite, and Weight Management01:14:19 Balancing Cardio and Strength Training for Optimal Health01:21:14 Closing Remarks and Resources Episodes You Might Enjoy: Episode 352: Dr. Dan Pardi on Stem Cells, Supplements, and the Future of Health with QualiaYouTube: https://youtu.be/8EZcHy_7wK8?si=aNGzT-abP9xbc6yUEpisode 343: Fueling the Corporate Athlete: Stress, Supplements & Performance with Dan HunterYouTube: https://youtu.be/0ek4XSs62RQ?si=czR_7q96jJDqXzcFConnect with Eric: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trexlerfitnessGet In Touch with Dr Mike: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpgEmail: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/

    1h 26m

  5. JAN 6

    Episode 361: Maximizing Athletic Performance and Recovery with Dr. Jeremy Bettle

    In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Jeremy Bettle, a performance director and applied sports scientist, to dig into what actually moves the needle for performance, recovery, and long-term resilience. We cover everything from high ankle sprains and injury prevention to smarter load management, and why understanding stress, recovery, and tissue capacity matters far more than chasing random training trends. Dr. Bettle shares insights from years of work across the NHL, NBA, and international sport, along with how elite performance systems can — and should — be translated to non-elite humans who want to train hard, recover better, and keep doing this for decades. Sponsors: Rogue: https://miket.me/rogueBeyond Power Voltra 1: https://www.beyond-power.com/michael13Fitness Insider Newsletter: https://miketnelson.com/Episode Chapters: 05:26 Discussion Kickoff: Injury Prevention and Load Management06:10 High Ankle Sprains in Professional Sports15:07 Load Management Strategies and Challenges38:11 Eccentric Training and Injury Prevention46:23 Muscular vs. Soft Tissue Injuries in Athletes47:49 Importance of Plyometric Work in Injury Prevention51:43 Isometric Exercises and Their Benefits58:12 Recovery Strategies and Their Effectiveness01:08:02 The Role of Communication in Team Sports01:15:55 Systematizing Athlete Routines for Optimal Performance01:22:52 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Episodes You Might Enjoy: Episode 314: Unlocking Performance & Recovery: IV Therapies & Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy with Jordyn PayneYouTube: https://youtu.be/qnJHcepDx1c?si=aTlDcFS6D77jq49DEpisode 325: The Uncommon Science of Cold: Brown Fat, Resilience & Recovery with Dr. Thomas SeagerYouTube: https://youtu.be/5ycoVRnLTuY?si=m-pgtYkkMcQhPUXJConnect with Jeremy: Vitality Collective: https://vitality-collective.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/VitalityCollectivePerformanceGet In Touch with Dr Mike: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpgEmail: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/

    1h 28m

  6. 12/30/2025

    Episode 360: Exploring Aerobic Development & Concurrent Training with Jason Brown

    In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I catch up with my good friend Jason Brown to dig into the intersection of strength training and aerobic development. We talk through how to implement aerobic conditioning in the real world, what zone two training actually is (and isn’t), and the pros and cons of different training methodologies.  Jason shares his thoughts on concurrent training, functional movement, and how to improve performance without sacrificing long-term health. We also get into the realities of online coaching and how to structure training programs that support sustainable progress over time.  If you’re looking to improve body composition, build muscle, and boost performance within a flexible, evidence-based framework, this episode will give you plenty to work with. Sponsors: Rogue: https://miket.me/rogueBeyond Power Voltra 1: https://www.beyond-power.com/michael13Meathead Cardio Course Level 1: Aerobic System https://miket.me/cardioFitness Insider Newsletter: https://miketnelson.com/Episode Chapters: 04:26 Jason Brown Introduction and Background04:58 Transition to Online Training07:16 Challenges and Adaptations in Online Coaching15:01 Assessment and Customization in Training19:46 Importance of Aerobic Conditioning21:38 Heart Rate Monitoring and Technology32:36 Debunking Myths and Misconceptions40:13 Personal Training Evolution40:29 Aerobic Training Benefits40:56 Training Philosophy and Methods41:54 Zone Two Training Debate43:23 Stress and Training Adaptations44:24 Creative Conditioning Approaches57:02 Concurrent Training Insights01:04:26 Programming and Practical Experience01:14:36 Final Thoughts and RecommendationsEpisodes You Might Enjoy: Episode 326: Row Hard, Breathe Easy: Boosting Aerobic Capacity with Dr. Kenneth JayYouTube: https://youtu.be/hpvKokMBRv4?si=sL-dFZ2reY_W5RWVEpisode 335: Grip, Guts & Gas Tanks: Aerobic Training for Meatheads with Levi EarlYouTube: https://youtu.be/S13JxU57-sk?si=phRGaQSaN0SnXnsOConnect with Jason: Website: https://www.jasonbrowncoaching.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jasonbrowncoachingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jasonbrowncoachingGet In Touch with Dr Mike: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpgEmail: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/

    1h 20m

  7. 12/24/2025

    Episode 358: Navigating Body Composition, Weight Loss & Real-World Coaching with Aram Grigorian

    In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I sit down with my good friend Aram Grigorian from the Real Coaches Summit to talk shop on what actually matters in coaching today. We dig into body composition and weight loss, why consistency still beats novelty, and how to think more clearly about calorie tracking without losing the forest for the trees. We also get into industry trends, client compliance, and why live, in-person events remain one of the most underrated tools for becoming a better coach. If you’re a trainer or just serious about improving your health and results, this is a practical, no-nonsense conversation you’ll get a lot out of. I also share a sneak peek at what’s coming up at the Real Coaches Summit. WARNING – you may be offended by some items that Aram or I say in this podcast. Just a heads-up, and enjoy. Sponsors: Real Coaches SummitNote: I don’t make a dime if you sign up for the RCS now, but I have presented at and attended the event in the past, and it is amazing. I highly recommend itDaily Fitness Insider NewsletterAvailable now: Grab a copy of the Triphasic Training II book I co-wrote with Cal Deitz here.Episode Chapters: 00:43 Discussion on Body Composition and Weight Loss 01:37 The Importance of Live Events for Trainers02:10 Challenges in Coaching and Client Compliance04:28 Event Logistics and Venue Details07:23 The Need for More In-Person Events10:00 Mentorship and Coaching Strategies12:47 Debunking Fitness Myths and Misconceptions13:52 The Role of Calorie Deficits in Weight Loss17:07 The Impact of Lifestyle Choices on Health21:36 The Importance of Consistency and Accountability25:31 Challenges in the Fitness Industry28:16 Practical Advice for Coaches and Trainers43:43 The Reality of Client Training and Nutrition47:10 The Misconceptions About Cardio and Dieting47:43 Measuring and Quantifying Cardio Output48:28 Challenges in Measuring Calories Burned49:41 The Complexity of Weight Training vs. Cardio50:54 The Role of Wearables in Tracking Fitness52:13 Debunking Fitness Myths and Misconceptions53:10 The Influence of Fitness Gurus and Misinformation53:58 The Importance of Sleep and Recovery01:00:52 Seasonal Fitness Trends and Challenges01:03:50 The Value of Consistency and Accountability01:06:12 Navigating the Fitness Industry’s Noise01:08:07 The Importance of Community and Networking01:15:57 Promoting Integrity and Transparency in Fitness01:18:16 The Role of Experts and Continuous Learning01:26:17 The Benefits of Attending Fitness Events01:30:17 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsFlex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy: Episode 207: Driving client progress with effective nutrition and coaching: An interview with Aram GrigorianEpisode 317: Enhancing Coaching & Leadership in Sports with Tex McQuilkinConnect with Aram: Instagram – Real Coaches SummitAram’s InstagramGet In Touch with Dr Mike: Instagram: DrmiketnelsonYouTube: @flexdietcertEmail: Miketnelson.com/contact-us

    1h 34m

  8. 12/22/2025

    Episode 359: Debunking Women’s Fitness Myths with Dr. Lauren Colenso-Semple

    In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Lauren Colenso-Semple to cut through the noise and tackle some of the most persistent myths in women’s fitness. We break down where misinformation shows up in popular programs, why overly complicated plans often backfire, and what the science actually says about fasted training and low energy availability.  We also get into hot topics like cold water immersion and cortisol, real sex-based differences in training responses, and why women’s fitness research is still so challenging to conduct well. If you’re looking for practical, evidence-based guidance instead of hype, this episode will help you train smarter and with more confidence. Sponsors: LMNT: http://drinklmnt.com/mikenelson (automatically applied at checkout)Beyond Power Voltra 1: https://www.beyond-power.com/michael13Fitness Insider Newsletter: https://miketnelson.com/Episode Chapters: 04:30 Interview with Dr. Lauren Colenso-Semple05:01 Complications in Women's Fitness07:39 Effective Training Strategies18:42 Fasted Training for Women23:33 Low Energy Availability28:50 Cold Water Immersion for Women34:27 The Overemphasis on Recovery36:45 Sex-Based Differences in Training37:04 The Fiber Type Debate43:41 Genetics and Athletic Performance46:23 Women's Specific Supplements53:50 Challenges in Women's Fitness Research01:00:51 Rapid Fire Questions and ConclusionEpisodes You Might Enjoy: Episode 267: Demystifying Women’s Fitness and Nutrition with Alli FahrenbachYouTube: https://youtu.be/w13NXowjSVU?si=QDdKNRGZZq_SgT5hEpisode 296: Enhancing Athletic Performance with Dr. Dani LaMartinaYouTube: https://youtu.be/ts_eqvs6OI4?si=TiqFPjcsxI9a3owFConnect with Dr Lauren Colenso-Semple: Website: https://www.drlaurencs.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlaurencs1Get In Touch: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpgEmail: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/

    1h 6m
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4.9
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52 Ratings

About

Dr. Mike T Nelson gets geeky with the latest research and scientific findings in the fitness world. Visit www.flexdiet.com to get Flex Diet Certified and www.miketnelson.com for more geeky goodness.

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Mike T Nelson
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    371
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2020 - 2022 Extreme Human Performance, LLC
  • Show Website
    Flex Diet Podcast

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