Iron Insights

Taylor Foster, Brandon Mauro, Isaac Bachert, Dyvek Ott, Hailie Foster
  • 5.0 (3)
  • FITNESS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Join Dr. Taylor Foster, physical therapist, bodybuilder, and entrepreneur, with co-hosts Brandon Mauro, IFBB Pro bodybuilder, coach, and trainer; Dr. Isaac Bachert, a physical therapist and advocate for evidence-based strength training; Dyvek Ott, entrepreneur and relentless athlete known as The Viking; Hailie Foster, PA-C and former gymnast turned figure bodybuilder. With 70+ years of combined experience, they delve into all things fitness. Whether chasing PRs or seeking expert insights, tune in for wisdom to transform your body, mind, and approach to training.

  1. 12/19/2025

    Personal Growth Through Bodybuilding

    Join us in this episode of Iron Insights with special guests Nick Umberger and Seth Chase as we discuss our journey and experiences leading up to NPC Nationals in Dallas, Texas. We share insights into bodybuilding prep, the challenges of maintaining a strict diet and training regimen, and the mental and physical demands of competitive bodybuilding. The conversation also touches on the importance of mindset, the value of self-improvement, and the support system needed to succeed in the sport. The episode concludes with reflections on the personal growth and connections made through bodybuilding, as well as the anticipation and excitement for the upcoming competition. Chapters: 00:01:37 Introduction to NPC Nationals00:08:41 Challenges of Bodybuilding00:11:07 Mental and Physical Demands00:20:33 Mindset and Self-Improvement00:26:08 Personal Growth and Connections00:45:46 Reflections and Future Goals01:08:57 Conclusion and Farewell Key Takeaways: Preparation for NPC Nationals is intense and requires strict discipline.Bodybuilding demands both mental and physical resilience.Mindset plays a crucial role in achieving success in competitions.Self-improvement is a continuous journey in bodybuilding.Support from peers and loved ones is vital for motivation.Diet and training regimens are tailored for peak performance.Personal growth is a significant outcome of the bodybuilding journey.Competitions are about personal bests, not just winning.The bodybuilding community offers valuable connections and friendships.Anticipation and excitement are part of the competition experience.

    1h 17m

  2. 07/18/2025

    Improvise, Adapt, Overcome: Lessons in Resilience from the Gym

    In this episode, Iron Insights had the privilage of having Dr. Zach Michalov, PT, DPT on the show. Our conversation starts off reviewing prep updates and a recent injury Taylor sustained and how he is now navigating that. The rest of the conversation revolves around the journey of transitioning from physical therapy school to medical sales, emphasizing the importance of mental fortitude, the role of the gym in stress relief, and the significance of support systems in overcoming challenges. The speakers share personal experiences, insights on resilience, and the value of taking risks in life. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Prep Updates 03:00 Mindset and Competition Preparation 06:17 Injury Management and Training Adjustments 12:24 The Journey Through PT School 15:13 Building Relationships in Fitness and Beyond 18:47 From Engineering to Exercise Science 21:34 The Mental Benefits of Gym Training 24:34 The Importance of Training Partners 27:57 Balancing School and Gym Life 30:49 Finding Motivation in Stressful Times 33:40 The Role of Determination in Success 38:45 Navigating the Challenges of PT School 41:45 The Importance of Support Systems 44:48 Mental Resilience and Personal Growth 47:34 The Role of Physical Fitness in Mental Health 50:44 Finding Motivation and Accountability 53:45 Career Pathways After PT School 58:36 Navigating Career Transitions 01:01:26 The Importance of Taking Risks 01:04:31 Learning from Failure 01:07:39 The Role of Support Systems 01:10:23 Embracing Change and Growth

    1h 14m

  3. 06/29/2025

    Prep Updates, Harsh Truths, and Q&A's

    In this conversation, the speakers delve into various aspects of bodybuilding prep, gym culture, and some listener Q&A's. The speakers touch on the importance of continuous learning, effective training techniques, the significance of humility, and the challenges of dieting and weight management. They discuss the role of coaching and feedback in the bodybuilding journey, the impact of social media on gym culture, and the need for respect and accountability within the fitness community. The conversation emphasizes the importance of hard work, dedication, and the mental challenges faced during preparation for competitions. Chapters 00:00 Struggles and Motivation in Bodybuilding 03:30 The Impact of Social Media on Body Image 06:25 The Mental Challenges of Prep 09:28 Trusting the Process in Bodybuilding 12:34 External Validation and Self-Perception 15:32 Future Plans and Accountability 20:26 The Journey to Ripped: Weight Loss Challenges 23:17 Fatigue and Mental State During Prep 26:21 The Importance of Coaching and Check-Ins 32:17 Biofeedback and Performance Tracking 38:36 Communication and Adjustments in Coaching 40:26 Understanding Coach-Client Dynamics 43:35 Diet Adjustments and Nutritional Insights 46:29 Gym Culture and Trends 48:54 The Impact of Social Media on Gym Behavior 51:41 Respect and Hierarchy in the Gym 54:31 The Reality of Bodybuilding and Influencer Culture 59:43 The Journey of Learning and Humility 01:02:39 The Natty Debate and Performance Enhancers 01:05:25 The Importance of Basics in Training 01:08:33 Mind-Muscle Connection vs. Moving Weight 01:11:33 Training Intensity and Failure 01:14:22 The Role of Eccentric Stretching in Weight Training 01:19:01 Effective Training Techniques 01:21:52 Tempo Training and Injury Management

    1h 24m

  4. 06/15/2025

    Body Dysmorphia: We All Have It

    In this episode of Iron Insights, the hosts delve into the complex topic of body dysmorphia, exploring its prevalence among themselves and others, especially in the fitness community. They discuss personal experiences with self-perception, the impact of social media on body image, and the importance of confidence and coping strategies. The conversation highlights the significance of surrounding oneself with supportive peers and the journey towards self-acceptance and growth. The hosts also touch on the opposite of body dysmorphia and discuss issues surrounding delusional overconfidence and how it can impede progress. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Body Dysmorphia 04:12 Personal Experiences with Gym Equipment 04:39 The Journey of Body Image 09:02 The Impact of Comparison 13:15 Social Media's Role in Body Dysmorphia 17:59 Personal Insecurities and Growth 20:24 Body Image and Insecurities 23:11 The Impact of Competitive Bodybuilding 26:05 Post-Show Mentality and Body Dysmorphia 29:05 The Balance of Health and Aesthetics 32:00 Motivation and Personal Goals in Fitness 35:03 Childhood Influences on Body Image 38:02 The Journey of Self-Acceptance 40:07 The Journey to Bodybuilding and Self-Image 43:11 Nutrition and Cooking for Bodybuilding 46:07 Coping with Body Dysmorphia 48:50 The Impact of Self-Perception on Performance 51:52 Finding Confidence Beyond Appearance 55:05 Lessons from Competition and Post-Show Reflections 59:59 The Importance of Consistency in Fitness 01:01:06 Delusion vs. Confidence in Body Image 01:04:05 Self-Awareness and Goal Setting 01:07:23 Embracing Delusion for Motivation

    1h 8m

  5. 06/08/2025

    Don’t Forget to Live While You Chase Your Dreams

    In this conversation, Brandon starts by telling a story with a powerful takeaway (title). The speakers also explore the challenges of burnout and stress in fitness, emphasizing the importance of flexibility and moderation in bodybuilding. They discuss the significance of building relationships within the fitness community and how personal goals can sometimes conflict with social life. The speakers share personal experiences and lessons learned from mentors, highlighting the value of being personable in training and the need for balance in a healthy lifestyle. Chapters 00:30 Moderation and Enjoying Life 05:29 Balancing Health and Enjoyment 06:37 Navigating Burnout and Stress Management 09:48 The Importance of Flexibility in Fitness Goals 12:30 Balancing Personal Relationships and Fitness 15:40 The Value of Helping Others 18:34 Understanding Stress: Eustress vs. Distress 21:29 The Role of Personability in Personal Training 26:25 Introduction and Connections 29:25 Friendship Dynamics and Gym Culture 31:47 Wrap-Up and Future Plans

    32 min

  6. 06/01/2025

    Exploring Personal Identity and Weightlifting Sterotypes: It's Not About What You Do, It's About How You Do It

    In this conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of personal identity, self-perception, and the impact of societal stereotypes. They discuss the importance of accountability to one's morals and values, the challenges of self-identification, especially in the context of physical appearance and health, and the necessity of finding structure and purpose in life. The dialogue also touches on the evolution of identity over time and how perceptions can differ from reality, emphasizing that one's true identity is shaped by actions and values rather than external judgments. 00:00 Introduction to Identity and Self-Reflection 01:24 The Impact of Competition on Identity 05:22 Transitioning from Structured Environments 09:12 Finding New Structures and Goals 11:18 Aligning Identity with Core Values 15:16 Recreating Identity After Adversity 17:01 Perception vs. Reality in Identity 19:12 Personal Accountability and Self-Identity 21:10 Stereotypes and Social Perceptions 29:28 Interactions with Authority Figures 31:38 Bouncer Experiences and Misconceptions 35:54 Public Perception and Misunderstandings 38:53 The Gym Culture and Recognition 41:58 The Psychology of Admiration and Jealousy 44:56 Passion and Identity in Fitness 47:52 The Importance of Consistency and Self-Respect 50:36 Dieting, Food Choices, and Sponsorships

    57 min

  7. 05/25/2025

    Navigating Life's Challenges: Practical Advice and Insight

    In this episode, the hosts discuss the various challenges people face in life, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection, hard work, and community support. They explore the idea that struggles are a normal part of life and that it's essential to control what you can while embracing the journey. The conversation highlights the value of finding your path, the privilege of pursuing personal goals, and the need for intrinsic happiness alongside external relationships. Chapters: 00:00 Navigating Life's Confusion 05:25 The Importance of Small Steps 10:27 Embracing Hard Work and Learning 15:07 The Power of Starting and Overcoming Failure 20:00 The Illusion of Social Media 20:16 Navigating Life's Challenges 23:19 The Importance of Self-Discovery 26:14 Finding Strength in Solitude 29:09 The Privilege of Pursuing Goals 32:28 Perspective on Struggles 35:26 The Balance of Complaining and Venting 40:03 Navigating the Challenges of Preparation 43:15 The Importance of Positive Self-Talk 46:07 Understanding the Why Behind Bodybuilding 49:13 The Journey is the Destination

    51 min

  8. 05/18/2025

    If We Knew Then What We Know Now: Things We Would Have Changed (Or Not)

    In this episode, the speakers dive into a conversation focused on mistakes they have made in the past with their fitness journeys. They review how they would have went about their diets and training had they known then what they know now. They discuss their experiences in the gym, the importance of having a supportive community, and the lessons learned from their training mistakes. They delve into the impact of nutrition on performance and the mental challenges faced during bodybuilding journeys. The conversation emphasizes the significance of mindset and personal growth in achieving fitness goals. In this conversation, the speakers delve into various aspects of fitness, focusing on injury prevention, the significance of maintenance phases in diet, the value of coaching and mentorship, and the balance between rigidity and flexibility with dieting. They share personal experiences and insights on how to optimize training and nutrition for better results while avoiding burnout and injuries. Chapters 00:00 Mistakes in Training: Lessons Learned 03:11 The Importance of Technique and Recovery 06:17 Injury Management and Prevention 09:21 The Role of Ego in Lifting 12:13 Strategic Training for Long-Term Goals 15:25 Building Mental Strength Through Challenges 20:23 Building Gym Friendships and Community 23:30 Lessons from Past Training Experiences 26:31 Nutrition: The Key to Bodybuilding Success 29:19 The Role of Food Scales in Dieting 32:20 Balancing Rigidity and Flexibility in Dieting 35:21 Understanding Individual Dietary Needs and Personalities 40:13 Understanding Personalization in Dieting 43:11 The Psychological Impact of Cheat Meals 46:12 The Importance of Competition and Accountability 49:17 Balancing Bulking and Cutting Phases 52:17 The Role of Mentorship in Fitness 55:12 Compliance and Commitment in Coaching 01:00:06 The Importance of Consistency in Coaching 01:03:12 Investment in Coaching: Accountability and Learning 01:05:30 Mental Readiness for Bodybuilding Prep 01:08:33 The Concept of Cheat Meals and Their Impact 01:11:34 Nutritional Strategies for Bulking and Meal Planning

    1h 13m
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Join Dr. Taylor Foster, physical therapist, bodybuilder, and entrepreneur, with co-hosts Brandon Mauro, IFBB Pro bodybuilder, coach, and trainer; Dr. Isaac Bachert, a physical therapist and advocate for evidence-based strength training; Dyvek Ott, entrepreneur and relentless athlete known as The Viking; Hailie Foster, PA-C and former gymnast turned figure bodybuilder. With 70+ years of combined experience, they delve into all things fitness. Whether chasing PRs or seeking expert insights, tune in for wisdom to transform your body, mind, and approach to training.

Information

  • Creator
    Taylor Foster, Brandon Mauro, Isaac Bachert, Dyvek Ott, Hailie Foster
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    19
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Taylor Foster, Brandon Mauro, Isaac Bachert, Dyvek Ott, Hailie Foster
  • Show Website
    Iron Insights