Muscle for Life with Mike Matthews

Mike Matthews
  • 4.8 (4.5K)
  • FITNESS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
Muscle for Life with Mike Matthews

OVER 25,000,000 DOWNLOADS AND COUNTING! If you want to know how to build muscle, lose fat, and be healthier, happier, and wiser...faster than you ever thought possible...then this podcast is for you. Hosted by the bestselling author and entrepreneur, Mike Matthews, each episode gives you simple, science-based know-how and inspiration that will help you build your best body and life ever. Find out more at www.legionathletics.com

  1. 2 DAYS AGO

    Johann Hari on the “Magic” of Ozempic

    How are GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic transforming the world of weight loss? These medications, initially developed for diabetes, have shown profound effects on reducing body weight and curbing appetite. But what are the risks and side effects? In this episode, I sit down with Johann Hari, bestselling author and journalist, to explore the science behind semaglutide, its surprising benefits, and the risks you should be aware of. Johann, known for his deep dives into health and societal issues, shares personal experiences and insights from his latest book, Magic Pill. Having tried these drugs himself and extensively researched their impact, Hari offers a unique perspective on how drugs like Ozempic could reshape the obesity epidemic. But are they truly the magic pill we've been waiting for? And more importantly, at what cost to our health and society? In this interview, you’ll learn . . . The connection between processed foods and the global obesity epidemic Understanding how Ozempic alters appetite through the action of GLP-1 hormones The risks associated with long-term use of Ozempic How these drugs might exacerbate eating disorders The challenges surrounding the availability and use of Ozempic And more . . . So, if you're curious about the hidden dangers and unexpected benefits of this "miracle" weight loss drug, click play and join the conversation --- Timestamps: (06:22) Obesity and willpower myths (11:58) Personal Ozempic experience (15:52) Expectations vs. reality (22:48) Why most diets fail (34:38) Post-diet options (37:29) Significant Ozempic risks (42:17) Eating disorder risks (47:50) Long-term Ozempic use --- Mentioned on the Show: Bigger Leaner Stronger Triton Legion Training Quiz Magic Pill

    1h 2m

  2. SEP 25

    Dr. Andy Galpin on Strength Training for Recreational Athletes

    Are you passionate about tennis, golf, or martial arts, but hesitant to spend time lifting weights? In this episode, I welcome back Dr. Andy Galpin. He reveals why recreational athletes should embrace strength training and how it can dramatically improve your game. From preventing injuries to enhancing your performance on the court or course, Dr. Galpin shares practical tips on integrating weightlifting into your routine without sacrificing the sports you love. As a professor of Kinesiology at California State University, Fullerton, and co-director of the Center for Sport Performance, Dr. Galpin is a leading expert in muscle physiology and human performance. He has extensive experience working with a diverse range of elite athletes across combat sports, team sports, individual sports, and military personnel, including many at the very top of their respective fields. In this interview, you'll learn . . . Why strength training is essential for longevity and overall health How weightlifting helps prevent injuries and strengthens soft tissues The surprising ways strength training enhances performance in non-explosive sports like gold, tennis and pickleball How to improve posture and correct imbalances with strength training How to create a custom training plan for your specific needs And more . . . So, if you want to understand how strength training can help improve your athletic performance and overall health click play and join the conversation. --- Timestamps: (11:18) Decision-making pyramid (17:10) Sleep optimization (24:08) Weightlifting benefits for recreational athletes (27:20) Short-term effects of weightlifting (33:27) Faster recovery (37:13) Performance benefits (46:50) Programming tips (50:05) Movement patterns (52:22) Injury vs. performance (55:07) Recovery philosophy --- Mentioned on the Show: The Little Black Book of Workout Motivation Pulse Legion Diet Quiz Absolute Rest Vitality Blue Print Perform Podcast

    1h 8m

  3. SEP 18

    Charles Duhigg on How to Be a “Supercommunicator”

    What's the secret to becoming a super communicator? How can you navigate the three layers of conversation? And how is technology changing the way we communicate? In this episode, I sit down with Charles Duhigg, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author of the bestselling book Super Communicators: How to Unlock the Secret Language of Connection. Charles explains the keys to effective communication and how we can all improve our ability to connect with others, at home or in the office. In this interview, you'll learn . . . The three layers of conversation: practical, emotional, and social How to effectively transition between emotional and practical conversations The role of storytelling in super communication Strategies for adapting your communication style to different situations and people How technology is reshaping our communication habits and what it means for personal connections And more . . . So, if you want to enhance your communication skills and build stronger connections in both your personal and professional life, click play and join the conversation. --- Timestamps: (04:02) Why did you choose "Super Communicators" as the title of your book? (07:30) What skills are essential for becoming a super communicator? (08:34) Can you explain the three layers of conversation: practical, emotional, and social? (10:56) What is an effective way to transition from an emotional conversation to a practical one? (14:14) What advice do you have for better managing our emotions? (20:47) How does storytelling fit into the framework of super communication? (25:45) How is technology shaping the way people communicate? (31:28) Are there specific types of conversations that should be avoided over email? (35:36) Is it important to adapt to the mood of the conversation? (36:48) What tips do you have for communicating with new people? --- Mentioned on the Show: Muscle for Life Supercommunicators: How to Unlock the Secret Language of Connection The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do, and How to Change Triton Legion Training Quiz

    41 min

  4. SEP 11

    Q&A: New Book Release, Clean Bulking, Sleep Hacks, Supersets & More

    In this episode, I discuss how to improve barbell row strength, strategies for supersetting, my new book release, and lots more. As always, these questions come directly from my Instagram followers, who take advantage of my weekly Q&As in my stories. If you have a question you're dying to have answered, make sure you follow me on Instagram (@muscleforlifefitness) and look out for the Q&A posts. Your question might just make it into a podcast episode! If you like this type of episode, let me know. Send me an email (mike@muscleforlife.com) or direct message me on Instagram. And if you don’t like it, let me know that too or how you think it could be better. **** --- Timestamps: (4:12) When is the next book coming out? (06:30) Tips for improving barbell row strength? (07:35) Is lifting 5 times per week better than 4 for results? (08:34) Is the deadlift primarily a back or leg exercise? (10:21) Should cardio be cut out during a clean bulk? (11:40) Thoughts on mouth taping and jaw exercisers? (13:00) Is rucking effective for cardio and muscle strength? (14:32) Are supersets with opposing muscle groups beneficial? (19:10) Top tips for improving sleep quality? (26:48) How does the hip thrust complement deadlift performance? (27:12) Strategies for politely ending gym conversations between sets? (29:16) Is daily red meat consumption harmful? (30:12) After a deload week, should I return to heavier weights or maintain? (30:38) Is the absence of a burning sensation during heavy lifts detrimental to hypertrophy? (32:05) Is additional cardio necessary if I already log thousands of steps at work? (32:53) Why recommend bulking before cutting for skinny-fat individuals? --- Mentioned on the Show: Stronger Than Yesterday The Shredded Chef Lunar Progressive Overload Training Whey+ Legion Diet Quiz

    39 min

  5. SEP 4

    Adam Schafer on the Keys to Building a Successful Business

    What’s the secret to building a successful business that lasts? How do you overcome the common challenges that entrepreneurs face? And what steps can you take to ensure your business continues to grow and thrive? In this episode, I sit down with Adam Schafer, a prominent figure in the fitness industry with more than 15 years of experience. Starting as a personal trainer, Adam co-founded Mind Pump, the #1 rated fitness podcast on Apple with over 2 million downloads per month. Adam delves into the challenges entrepreneurs face and how to turn setbacks into opportunities for growth, offering practical advice on building a thriving business in the competitive world of health and fitness. In this interview, you’ll learn . . . How to reframe business setbacks as opportunities for growth and innovation The critical role of networking and relationship-building in accelerating business success Why embracing extreme ownership is essential for effective leadership and scaling your business Key lessons in hiring and managing teams for sustainable business growth And more . . . So, if you want to understand how to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship and build a successful business, click play and join the conversation. --- Timestamps: (04:41) Is inconsistency in friendships a personal trait or a byproduct of success? (09:48) Will you ever consider slowing down in your business pursuits? (12:42) In the future, how will you balance financial achievements with non-financial achievements? (24:34) How do you evaluate the significance and magnitude of your goals? (26:24) Can you share more about the new service you launched for fitness professionals? (40:24) What lessons have you learned from hiring the wrong people in business? (50:12) How can you transform past mistakes into valuable lessons for future growth? (59:34) How can you build friendships with successful people even if you don’t feel successful yourself? (01:13:25) How can surrounding yourself with uplifting individuals lead to greater success and personal growth? --- Mentioned on the Show: The Little Black Book of Workout Motivation Phoenix Legion Training Quiz Mind Pump Media Mind Pump Trainers

    1h 40m

  6. AUG 28

    How My Coaching Helped Martin Lose 9 pounds and 6% Body Fat

    In this episode, I talk with Martin, who achieved remarkable results with Legion’s body transformation coaching service. Martin had always been interested in fitness but struggled with gaining weight and building muscle. Running his own business made it challenging to find time for consistent workouts. Years ago, he discovered my book Bigger Leaner Stronger, which introduced him to effective training concepts. While he saw some progress, he felt he could achieve even better results and decided to sign up for Legion coaching. With his coach's guidance, Martin learned to balance his work schedule with a structured fitness plan. Through this process, he lost 9 pounds, reduced his body fat by 6%, and trimmed 2 inches off his waist, all while increasing his overall strength and muscle mass. In this podcast, Martin shares valuable insights into staying consistent, the importance of accountability, and navigating challenges. His story highlights how following straightforward, evidence-based advice can lead to impressive results. Tune in to hear Martin’s story and discover how expert coaching and dedication can transform your body and life. --- Timestamps: (5:21) What were your before and after results like? (12:14) How did you discover my work, and what was your situation before that? (16:05) What key mistakes did the coaching program help you correct? (21:38) How was your meal plan structured, and what types of foods did it include? (33:09) Did you incorporate cheat meals into your diet plan? (38:52) What did your training program look like, and how did it evolve? (45:37) Can you describe your experience with deadlifting injuries and switching to the hex bar? (54:07) What challenges did you face during the training process, if any? (56:45) Which exercises became your favorites during the program? (01:04:10) Did you use any supplements as part of your routine? (1:20:15) What are your thoughts on the potential risks associated with fish oil supplements? --- Mentioned on the Show: Bigger Leaner Stronger Legion Body Transformation Coaching Pulse Legion Diet Quiz The Actor's Career Compass Podcast

    1h 35m

  7. AUG 21

    Scott Donnell on Raising Confident and Independent Children

    What does it really mean to raise confident and independent kids? How can parents instill strong values while making learning engaging and fun? And what practical steps can you take to prepare your children for a successful future? In this episode, I chat with Scott Donnell, a serial entrepreneur and expert in family financial education. Scott shares insights from his work with the Gravy Stack app and his book "Value Creation Kid," offering strategies for teaching kids life skills in a way that is both educational and enjoyable. In this interview, you’ll learn . . . How to make learning engaging and fun for kids Strategies for teaching kids life skills during your daily routine The importance of instilling values and fostering independence Practical tips for building confidence and responsibility in children How to overcome common obstacles in teaching kids essential skills Creative ways to engage kids in learning through games And more . . . So, if you’re ready to help your children develop the skills and values that will benefit them throughout their lives, click play and join the conversation. --- Timestamps: (08:00) How did studying high net worth families help in teaching kids about finances? (09:33) The concept of "heritage over inheritance” (10:40) What are the 12 principles and can you share a few that stand out? (20:34) What is the “home economy” system? (23:55) What are the 3 E’s? (29:43) Have you encountered resistance from parents about implementing these principles? (36:19) Healthy struggles vs. unhealthy struggles (40:10) What types of healthy struggles should parents consider introducing to their kids? (46:27) What are your thoughts on the statement "If we model these behaviors, we are a lot of the way there"? (51:27) What are some of the most important skills we should teach our kids? (57:27) Why is interdependence, not independence, the goal in parenting? --- Mentioned on the Show: Value Creation Kid Dinner Table App Scott Donnell Instagram Thinner Leaner Stronger Triton Legion Training Quiz

    1h 9m

  8. AUG 14

    Q&A: Fixing Amenorrhea, Weightlifting for Cardio, Staying Muscular at 40+ & More

    In this episode, I discuss how fit women can fix amenorrhea, whether high-rep sets are good for cardio, the challenges of staying muscular at 40+, and lots more. As always, these questions come directly from my Instagram followers, who take advantage of my weekly Q&As in my stories. If you have a question you're dying to have answered, make sure you follow me on Instagram (@muscleforlifefitness) and look out for the Q&A posts. Your question might just make it into a podcast episode! If you like this type of episode, let me know. Send me an email (mike@muscleforlife.com) or direct message me on Instagram. And if you don’t like it, let me know that too or how you think it could be better. --- Timestamps: (03:08) Should you deload based on HRV and resting heart rate changes? (04:06) Are lighter weights with higher reps and short rest times effective for cardio? (05:52) How can you resolve amenorrhea? (10:58) When can we expect an OnlyFans launch? (15:26) Does maintaining your physique become more challenging with age? (21:20) Should I adjust the Bigger Leaner Stronger program when starting at age 56? (25:06) What business mistakes set Legion back? (29:08) Are diuretic products effective for water retention, or are they all scams? (31:31) How can you transition off fat burners without gaining weight? (32:36) What's the best way to minimize carb crashes when bulking with 3 heavy meals? (34:36) Can two leg sessions per week, focusing on quads and hamstrings, effectively build bigger legs? --- Mentioned on the Show: The Little Black Book of Workout Motivation Bigger Leaner Stronger Recharge Legion Diet Quiz

    38 min
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OVER 25,000,000 DOWNLOADS AND COUNTING! If you want to know how to build muscle, lose fat, and be healthier, happier, and wiser...faster than you ever thought possible...then this podcast is for you. Hosted by the bestselling author and entrepreneur, Mike Matthews, each episode gives you simple, science-based know-how and inspiration that will help you build your best body and life ever. Find out more at www.legionathletics.com

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