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. 1D AGO

    Episode 369: Stop “Thinking Positive”: Nervous System, Pressure, and Performance with Vince Malts

    In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I sit down with my good buddy Vince Maltz, a high-performance mindset coach who works with NHL players, Division I athletes, and elite performers. We dig into what “mindset training” actually looks like in real life, beyond the clichés, and why it’s inseparable from physiology, recovery, and nervous system regulation. We also get into the modern performance environment: fake expertise, too many voices in the kitchen, and why big organizations adapt slowly. Vince breaks down centralized vs. decentralized leadership, how athletes can learn to think for themselves inside a system, and why being a “nerd” at your sport is becoming a competitive advantage.  From there, we hit practical tools: how athletes move from conscious competence to unconscious competence faster, why distributed cognition matters in team sports, and what individuals can do today to improve performance through breathing, cold exposure, communication, and environment. Sponsors: Shiftwave: https://shiftwave.co/drmiketnelson - Save $300 with the link above. Note: This is an affiliate link. Daily Fitness Insider Newsletter: https://flex-diet.kit.com/bfa1510fa8 Available now: Grab a copy of the Triphasic Training II book I co-wrote with Cal Deitz here. Episode Chapters: 06:53 Why Mindset Matters: From ‘Fringe’ to (Mostly) Accepted in Pro Sports 08:28 Pressure, Public Failure & Emotional Imprints: When One Mistake Snowballs 13:04 The Dream vs the Job: Nervous System Load of Going Pro 16:22 Social Media, Doomscrolling & the Rise of ‘Fake Experts’ 19:55 Too Many Voices: Entourages, Specialists & Who’s Actually in Control? 22:39 Centralized vs Decentralized Leadership: Letting Athletes Think for Themselves 26:09 Big Organizations Adapt Slow: Communication, Small Groups & Real Dialogue 31:15 Being a ‘Nerd’ at Your Sport: Building Game IQ Through Learning & Desire 36:40 Thoughtfulness, Accountability & Why Systems Make Change Real 37:32 Why Veterans Still Win: Reading the Game on a Deeper Level 37:51 The 4 Stages of Learning (and the Push Toward Unconscious Competence) 40:25 Can You Speed It Up? Pressure, Playfulness & Staying in Stage 3 42:17 Identify–Direct–Own: A Framework to Accelerate Game Adaptability 44:58 Distributed Cognition: The Team ‘Cheat Code’ for Game Speed 48:31 Game Theory in Sports: Rules, Referees & Playing the Real Game 50:15 System Reliability, Utility Players & Coaching Under Constraints 56:09 State Before Skills: 4 Practical Tools (Breathing, Cold, Communication, Environment) 01:05:03 Wrap-Up, Where to Find Vince, and Podcast Outro + Disclaimers Flex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy: Episode 328: Grit Gains: Building Mental Toughness and Resilience in Training with Ben Mayfield Smith YouTube: https://youtu.be/SsgZ1Tg_gro Episode 294: Mental Fitness & Performance: A Talk with Contemplate CEO Tarun Gulati YouTube: https://youtu.be/WWhtGjdWiNA Connect with Vance: Bloodline Hockey: https://bloodlinehockey.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachvinnymalts Get In Touch with Dr Mike: Instagram: Drmiketnelson YouTube: @flexdietcert Email: Miketnelson.com/contact-us

    1h 10m

  2. 4D AGO

    Episode 368: Why NEAT (Step Count) Might Be the Missing Key to Fat Loss, Recovery, and Performance & Flex Diet Cert Closes Tonight

    In this solo episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I break down why NEAT (non-exercise activity thermogenesis), and a simple step count, is one of the most overlooked levers for improving body composition, recovery, and performance. I explain how NEAT often drops when calories are reduced, why that can stall fat loss even when you think you’re in a deficit, and how using wearables (or even basic tracking) can make subconscious movement visible and easier to improve.  I also share how the Flex Diet Cert is built as a complete system for nutrition and recovery, covering interventions from macros (protein, fats, carbs) to NEAT, sleep, micronutrition, intermittent fasting, and more — designed for everyone from general population clients to high-level athletes.  I also remind listeners that enrollment for the Flex Diet Cert closes Monday, February 16th, 2026, at midnight Pacific. Sponsors: Fitness Insider Newsletter: https://miketnelson.com/Enroll in the Flex Diet Certification by midnight PST on Monday, Feb. 16. https://miket.me/fdcAvailable now: Grab a copy of the Triphasic Training II book I co-wrote with Cal Deitz here.Episode Chapters: 00:30 Flex Diet Cert Closing Tonight (Enrollment Reminder)01:52 Why NEAT Matters: The Underrated Fat-Loss & Recovery Lever02:25 Calories Drop, NEAT Drops: The Hidden Metabolic Adaptation03:10 Modern Life vs. Cave People: Why We Move Less Now03:40 Track Steps to Override It (Wearables, Pedometers & Hawthorne Effect)04:36 When Dieting ‘Stops Working’: Step Count Falls Without You Noticing06:03 Make It Practical: Step Targets, Accessibility, and Real-World Tips07:16 NEAT for Recovery & Performance (More Training, More Muscle)07:33 Wrap-Up + Last Call to Enroll + Upcoming InterviewsGet In Touch with Dr Mike: Instagram: DrmiketnelsonYouTube: @flexdietcertEmail: Miketnelson.com/contact-us

    10 min

  3. FEB 12

    Episode 367: Rebroadcast: Creatine for Brain Health and Performance with Dr. Eric Rawson

    Welcome back to the Flex Diet Podcast! In this episode, I chat with Dr. Eric Rawson about the fascinating world of creatine, not just for muscle growth and performance, but also for brain health. We review the latest research on how creatine supplementation may affect brain function, support concussion recovery, and more.  Dr. Rawson shares insights from his extensive research, highlights the amazing safety profile of creatine monohydrate, and offers practical advice on supplementation for athletes and those at high risk of traumatic brain injuries. Tune in for an in-depth look at the science and practical applications of this powerful supplement! Don’t forget to subscribe and share with friends. Enjoy! Sponsors: Fitness Insider Newsletter: https://miketnelson.com/Enroll in the Flex Diet Certification by midnight PST on Monday, Feb. 16. https://miket.me/fdcAvailable now: Grab a copy of the Triphasic Training II book I co-wrote with Cal Deitz here.Episode Chapters: 01:25 Creatine's Evolution and Its New Applications02:37 Creatine and Cognitive Function04:29 Podcast Logistics and Listener Engagement05:31 Rebroadcast: Dr. Eric Rawson on Creatine and Brain Health07:34 Dr. Rawson's Background and Research Focus17:21 Challenges in Measuring Brain Creatine26:53 Animal Models vs. Human Data34:18 Challenges in Brain Function Research36:14 Political and Reporting Issues in Concussion Studies37:40 Open-Label Trials and Self-Report Surveys39:56 Creatine's Potential in Brain Injury Recovery42:25 Parental Concerns and Misconceptions about Creatine44:45 The Safety and Efficacy of Creatine47:09 Future Directions in Creatine Research48:53 Comparing Brain and Muscle Creatine Levels52:53 The Need for Human Studies Over Animal Models55:33 The Broad Appeal of Creatine58:57 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsGet In Touch with Dr Mike: Instagram: DrmiketnelsonYouTube: @flexdietcertEmail: Miketnelson.com/contact-us

    1h 8m

  4. FEB 9

    Episode 366: Coaching Leverage for Optimal Fitness Results & Flex Diet Cert Now Open

    Welcome back to the Flex Diet Podcast! In this solo episode, I dive into the concept of coaching leverage, a key aspect of the Flex Diet Certification. Learn how to maximize muscle growth, improve performance, and enhance body composition through eight essential interventions, including protein intake, sleep, and more.  I discuss the practical application of metabolic flexibility and flexible dieting principles to help you and your clients achieve sustainable results. Don't miss this opportunity to gain insights and tips that you can apply right away. Flex Diet Certification is open from February 9th to 16th, 2026. Sign up now and start your transformation! Enroll now: https://miket.me/fdc 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: 00:17 Overview of the Flex Diet Certification00:57 Details of the Flex Diet Certification03:09 Enrollment Information and Bonuses05:10 Introduction to Coaching Leverage05:45 Physiology and Psychology in Coaching07:03 Importance of Sleep in Coaching10:22 Protein as a Key Intervention11:56 Ranking Interventions by Coaching Leverage14:04 Conclusion and Final Thoughts17:10 Disclaimer and Legal InformationGet In Touch with Dr Mike: Instagram: DrmiketnelsonYouTube: @flexdietcertEmail: Miketnelson.com/contact-us

    18 min

  5. FEB 3

    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

  6. 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

  7. 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

  8. 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
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4.9
out of 5
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
    375
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2020 - 2022 Extreme Human Performance, LLC
  • Show Website
    Flex Diet Podcast

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