Self-Selecting

Cory Hageman
  • 4.9 (40)
  • HEALTH & FITNESS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

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

  1. 10H AGO

    E. 131 PED Pressure, Identity Loss & Coming Back Stronger With Melissa Valliere

    In this episode, I sit down with Melissa Valliere for a deeply personal and brutally honest conversation around PED use, identity, bodybuilding culture, and the emotional cost of competing. We talk about how easy it is to use prep as a distraction, especially when you’re going through something emotionally heavy. Melissa shares her own experience with that and what it took for her to step back, get curious, and reclaim her health and identity. We also go deep on PED use in figure, how the culture has evolved, the virilization risks people don’t talk enough about, and why some coaches are crossing the line in pushing PEDs on athletes. Melissa drops real-world advice for women navigating decisions around enhancement, competing, and how to protect your mental and physical future. Timestamps: - [00:00 – 00:56] – Intro & what today’s episode is really about - [00:56 – 08:50] – Melissa’s history with prep, identity, and emotional detachment - [08:50 – 19:44] – Using prep to avoid emotions & the bandaid effect of competing - [19:44 – 26:19] – The moment Melissa realized she had to dig herself out - [26:19 – 28:34] – Why curiosity is the most powerful mindset for healing - [28:34 – 31:50] – Has the figure division changed over time? - [31:50 – 35:13] – PED culture in figure: Then vs. Now - [35:13 – 40:14] – PED use across divisions: what’s normalized & what’s expected - [40:14 – 42:16] – The under-discussed risks of virilization - [42:16 – 45:49] – Coaches pushing PEDs: red flags & ethical concerns - [45:49 – 52:45] – Making PED decisions: what you should actually consider - [52:45 – 58:36] – Why it's okay to compete for reasons other than winning Links & Resources: Follow Melissa on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissabum/ 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

    59 min

  2. 4D AGO

    E. 130 How to Plan Your Year for Fat Loss & Muscle Growth

    In this episode, I break down how to strategically plan your year for real, lasting results. Whether you’re trying to lose fat, build muscle, or simply maintain your physique, I walk you through the process of setting up your 2026 goals with intention - not chaos. We’ll cover how to map out your dieting and building phases, plan around real-life interruptions like travel or sickness, and identify the best time of year to push for results versus when to hold steady. I also share my personal strategies for managing fatigue, avoiding burnout, and knowing when to pivot based on your body’s feedback. This is the roadmap for anyone serious about finally achieving their physique goals without losing their sanity. Timestamps: - [00:00 – 03:36] – Why planning your fitness year is critical. - [03:36 – 06:35] – Question 1: Do you want to be leaner? - [06:35 – 10:04] – When you want to add more muscle — realistic timelines for growth. - [10:04 – 11:43] – What to expect if you want to build up to 5 lbs of muscle. - [11:43 – 13:00] – If you need to build more than 10 lbs — long-term expectations. - [13:00 – 16:43] – Assessing your current body composition and where to start. - [16:43 – 19:54] – When do you want to be your leanest? - [19:54 – 21:32] – What to avoid at all costs: burnout and unrealistic dieting timelines. - [21:32 – 23:57] – Accounting for travel, sickness, and life events. - [23:57 – 24:42] – Planning for setbacks. - [24:42 – 27:55] – The maximum amount of time you should stay in a dieting phase. - [27:55 – 29:36] – When and how to plan your maintenance phases effectively. - [29:36 – 31:21] – Setting realistic expectations around progress. - [31:21 – 35:00] – How to approach your 6–9 months outside of dieting. - [35:00 – 37:40] – How to run a productive build phase (without gaining unnecessary fat). - [37:40 – 39:39] – Why I rarely encourage building through the holidays. - [39:39 – 42:51] – How to plan your year strategically and find peace in your progress. Links & Resources: 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

    43 min

  3. DEC 15

    E. 129 How to Build Muscle Faster

    In this episode, I break down the truth about why you’re not growing, and how to finally start building muscle efficiently.I walk you through my full muscle-building framework, including why “just following the plan” doesn’t guarantee progress, how to train for adaptation, and the mindset shift required to go from reactive to proactive. I also share my own experience adding four inches to my glutes - what went wrong, what I fixed, and how you can do the same without overtraining, burning out, or relying on enhancements. Timestamps: - [00:00 – 03:35] – Intro - [03:36 – 06:45] – Why you’re not growing: eating, training, recovery, and environment factors. - [06:45 – 12:00] – “Doing the plan” doesn’t guarantee muscle growth. - [12:00 – 12:50] – Why loading more weight every week isn’t real progress. - [12:50 – 18:24] – The real secret: proactive training. - [18:24 – 22:22] – How to identify compensations and avoid injury. - [22:22 – 25:48] – You can’t manage what you don’t measure. - [25:48 – 31:43] – How to produce effort across sessions. - [31:43 – 33:37] – What separates those who grow from those who coast. - [33:37 – 36:03] – The importance of daily habits. - [36:03 – 37:26] – How to handle breaks in training without losing progress. - [37:26 – 41:49] – Hormones and stress: how chronic fatigue and poor sleep kill muscle growth. - [41:49 – 45:35] – The sleep deficit trap. - [45:35 – 49:28] – How “extra work” leads to burnout instead of gains. Links & Resources: 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

    49 min

  4. DEC 12

    E. 128 How to Rebuild Strength & Confidence Postpartum With Dr. Meghan Sak-Ocbina

    In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Meghan Sak-Ocbina - physical therapist, strength coach, and new mom - to unpack the real conversation about postpartum health, strength, and identity. We dive deep into pelvic floor recovery, why “flat glutes” happen postpartum, and how to rebuild from the inside out - through movement, mindset, and breathwork. We also break down myths around waist trainers, incontinence, and how your breathing impacts glute growth and stability. Whether you’re a new mom, athlete, or simply learning to reconnect with your body, this episode will help you train smarter, not harder, and finally understand how your physiology and mindset work together. Timestamps: - [00:00 – 02:15] – Introduction - [02:15 – 05:13] – The postpartum physique journey. - [05:13 – 06:49] – Identity loss when physique goals take a back seat. - [06:49 – 11:40] – Postpartum dieting and calorie needs. - [11:40 – 14:51] – The truth about postpartum glute changes. - 14:51 – 17:33] – “Stubborn glutes” in competitors and understanding asymmetries in hip and glute development. - [17:33 – 20:45] – Pelvic guarding and trauma after IUDs. - [20:45 – 24:00] – How to identify if your pelvic floor is tight. - [24:00 – 34:00] – Incontinence, painful intercourse, and pelvic dysfunction. - [34:00 – 40:11] – Pelvic floor prognosis: assessing and improving tightness, breathing, and coordination. - [40:11 – 45:31] – Coaching cues: how to hinge properly, build glute connection, and manage pressure. - [45:31 – 49:09] – How mouth breathing, tension, and posture affect muscle loading. - [49:09 – 50:26] – How rib expansion and breathing mechanics improve stability and hypertrophy. - [50:26 – 52:16] – How stage habits harm performance in the gym. - [52:16 – 54:40] – The waist trainer myth - risks, misconceptions, and smarter alternatives. - [54:40 – 1:02:30] – Core function and waist control. - [1:02:30 – 1:06:29] – The power of priming sessions before training. - [1:06:29 – 1:11:22] – What most people miss in their training. Links & Resources: Follow Dr. Meghan Sak-Ocbina: https://www.instagram.com/dr.megsi.dpt/?hl=en Work With Dr. Meghan Sak-Ocbina: https://marketplace.trainheroic.com/brand/meghan-sak-ocbina?attrib=419239-ig&utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGn-ZPTUhd2z9mq9myXto4g1TTUeBEJdrjqlr2PmV1z4WKPnDTZZ0vxhlSmHiY_aem_AWUwGOzYtz3qLsl12NQ_Wg 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

    1h 11m

  5. DEC 8

    E. 127 How to Recover After You Fall Off Your Diet: My 5 Step Framework

    In this episode, I walk through a 5-step framework that will change how you recover after falling off your diet. If you’ve ever punished yourself after overeating, felt stuck in the shame cycle, or thought “I’ll start over Monday,” this episode is for you.I share personal stories from post-show binges, lessons from coaching thousands of clients, and actionable strategies to rebuild trust with yourself and get back on track faster - without guilt, restriction, or self-punishment. Timestamps: - [00:00 – 04:28] – Introduction - [04:28 – 16:31] – Number 1: Self-punishment isn’t discipline - [16:31 – 26:30] – Number 2: Breaking the shame cycle. - [26:30 – 29:59] – How self-sabotage disguises itself as truth and how to reframe those thoughts for progress. - [29:59 – 41:02] – Number 3: The protocol for getting back on track. - [41:02 – 46:11] – Number 4: Setting a time limit for guilt. - [46:11 – 47:23] – How to detach from that mindset and approach growth differently. - [47:23 – 54:01] – Number 5: Timing your food decisions. Links & Resources: 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

    54 min

  6. DEC 1

    E. 126 Should You Use PEDs?

    In this episode, I break down the reality of PED use — from what these drugs actually are, to how they affect your body and mind. I cover the real reasons people use performance-enhancing drugs, the misconceptions that lead to misuse, and the irreversible consequences, especially for women. I also share what responsible PED use looks like, the red flags to watch out for, and the deeper mindset questions you need to ask before ever deciding to take them. This isn’t fear-mongering — it’s about informed consent and long-term health. Timestamps: - [00:00 – 04:42] – Introduction - [04:42 – 07:09] – What are PEDs? Fat burners vs. muscle builders. - [07:09 – 09:14] – Why people use PEDs. - [09:14 – 10:45] – Can PEDs actually help? - [10:45 – 13:24] – Using PEDs to prevent muscle loss. - [13:24 – 15:41] – The real pros of PEDs. - [15:41 – 19:06] – The cons of PEDs. - [19:06 – 21:05] – Why women need to confirm low circulating androgens before starting PEDs. - [21:05 – 22:43] – Dependency and psychological risks. - [22:43 – 24:00] – Should you use PEDs? - [24:00 – 28:51] – The motivation problem. - [28:51 – 31:46] – What are PEDs actually helping with? - [31:46 – 36:33] – The illusion of influence and physical value. - [36:33 – 39:39] – The cost of performance. - [39:39 – 45:10] – Will irreversible effects negate the benefits? Links & Resources: 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

    45 min

  7. NOV 28

    E. 125 How to Train Smarter: Building Strength Without Chasing Sensation With Jordan Jiunta

    In this episode, I sit down with Jordan Jiunta — chiropractor, performance coach, and co-founder of Pre-Script — to talk about what it really takes to build muscle. We unpack biomechanics, stability, and the mindset behind muscle growth. I share my own experience of working with Jordan to rebuild my training foundation and reframe my approach to progression. We break down why “feeling the burn” doesn’t mean growth, how to fuel your workouts, and why stability is the missing link for most people trying to grow. We also discuss the emotional and psychological side of bulking — from body image to performance mindset — and how learning to auto-regulate gives you control over your progress. Timestamps: - [00:00 – 07:20] – Introducing Jordan Jiunta - [07:20 – 15:00] – Building muscle and biomechanics - [15:00 – 21:20] – Glute sensation vs. muscle growth - [21:20 – 24:29] – Fueling your performance - [24:29 – 31:00] – The mental aspect of gaining weight - [31:00 – 36:46] – Knowing when to push and when to rest - [36:46 – 39:32] – Using high-sensation exercises to improve stability, hip control, and training awareness. - [39:32 – 42:29] – Learning to listen to your body. - [42:29 – 45:00] – Redefining a “bad” workout. - [45:00 – 49:30] – Taking ownership of your training. - [49:30 – 52:03] – Closing thoughts and how to learn more through Jordan’s Pre-Script Level 1 education program. Links & Resources: Follow Jordan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/redwiteandjordan/ Enroll in Pre-Script's Level 1 Education Program: https://www.pre-script.com/psl1 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

    52 min

  8. NOV 24

    E. 124 60 Questions in 60 Minutes Part 2

    In this episode, I answer over 60 listener-submitted questions covering everything from yohimbine and GH use to PED comparisons, hormone optimization, and training for women. I dive into what’s overhyped, what’s dangerous, and what actually delivers results — all from years of experience coaching enhanced and natural female athletes. We cover PED safety, prep strategy, T3/T4 balance, meal timing, and the real truth behind “fat loss hacks.” If you’re serious about understanding the physiology behind female enhancement and performance, this one is for you. Timestamps: - [00:00 – 01:10] – Intro + Episode overview — 60 questions, unfiltered answers. - [01:10 – 02:45] – Is yohimbine a PED? When to use (and not use) it for fat loss. - [02:45 – 03:45] – Building muscle in a deficit — when it’s possible and when it’s a waste. - [03:45 – 04:24] – Why “no two preps are the same” applies to fat loss too. - [04:24 – 06:47] – Fit model vs. natural NPC bikini — competing drug-free vs. enhanced. - [06:47 – 07:27] – Optimal daily electrolytes. - [07:27 – 08:27] – Growth hormone for women — dosage guidance and fat loss truth. - [08:27 – 09:40] – Why you get hungry after eating. - [09:40 – 10:47] – Comparing female PEDs. - [10:47 – 13:18] – Thoughts on peptides beyond GLP-1s. - [13:18 – 13:54] – RDLs or hip thrusts? - [13:54 – 15:48] – DB vs. BB RDLs + training failure for muscle growth. - [15:48 – 18:41] – Women, aging & PEDs — finding safe compounds for longevity. - [18:41 – 21:54] – Test + Anavar cycles & T3/T4 effects pre- and post-prep. - [21:54 – 24:05] – Coaching men + Cory’s favorite makeup for filming. - [24:05 – 28:22] – GH cycling off periods, gut health, and vacuum training explained. - [28:22 – 30:51] – BPC-157 vs. TB-500 for recovery + Cory’s coaching rates. - [30:51 – 35:50] – Glute fold measurement, post-cut rebound, and heavy hip thrust myths. - [35:50 – 40:35] – Cory’s current training, recovery, fasted cardio, and carb ranges. - [40:35 – 42:37] – Relationships & bodybuilding — balancing lifestyle differences. - [42:37 – 46:56] – Meal timing, four meals a day, and optimal lower-body volume. - [46:56 – 53:23] – Deficit setups, self-coaching, estrogen replacement, and TRT effects. - [53:23 – 56:57] – Finding the right coach + protein goals + understanding plateaus. - [56:57 – 1:00:00] – PED stack critiques — GH, T3, Clen, Anavar, TRT, and Ozempic. - [1:00:00 – 1:01:44] – Final audience question: balancing T3/T4/Clen protocols safely. Links & Resources: 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

    1h 2m
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4.9
out of 5
40 Ratings

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 - 2025
  • Episodes
    131
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Cory Hageman
  • Show Website
    Self-Selecting

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