Épisodes

  • Ep 363 - What Everyone's Getting Wrong About New Dietary Guidelines
    Jan 21 2026

    In this episode of Iron Culture, Eric Helms and Eric Trexler discuss the recent changes to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGAs) and the implications of these updates. They begin by addressing the shift in their podcast schedule, emphasizing the importance of mental health and balance in their work. The conversation then transitions into a detailed analysis of the new dietary guidelines, highlighting the complexities of the process behind their formulation. Helms critiques the influence of corporate interests and the political landscape on the DGAs, while also acknowledging the positive aspects of the new recommendations, particularly the increased emphasis on protein intake. The hosts explore the historical context of dietary guidelines, the evolution of public health messaging, and the challenges of effectively communicating nutritional advice to the public. In this episode, Eric Helms and MASS Research delve into the complexities of the latest Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGAs), discussing the implications of the visual representation of food groups and the recommendations for protein, fats, and processed foods. They critique the new guidelines for their lack of clarity and potential confusion, particularly regarding the emphasis on whole foods versus processed foods. The conversation highlights the disconnect between the written guidelines and their visual representation, which may mislead the public about healthy eating patterns. They also explore the political influences on these guidelines and how they may affect vulnerable populations, particularly in school lunch programs and social assistance programs.


    If you’re in the market for some lifting gear or apparel, be sure to check out EliteFTS.com (and use our code “MRR10" for a 10% discount)


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Schedule Changes

    07:15 The Dietary Guidelines Controversy

    20:56 Understanding the Formation of Dietary Guidelines

    32:30 The Influence of Food Industries on Guidelines

    33:38 The Role of the Second Committee

    43:49 Changes in Protein Recommendations

    44:19 The Inverted Pyramid and Dietary Miscommunication

    59:55 Understanding Fats in the New Guidelines

    01:09:17 The Role of Full-Fat Dairy in Heart Health

    01:15:06 Alcohol Consumption: New Guidelines Explained

    01:21:52 Processed Foods and Public Health Implications

    01:25:03 The Impact of Dietary Guidelines on Vulnerable Populations

    01:30:34 Conclusions and Future Directions in Nutrition Guidelines

    Afficher plus Afficher moins
    1 h et 45 min
  • Ep 362 - WNBF Champ Shreenath Ganesh
    Jan 12 2026

    In this episode, Eric Helms interviews Shreenath Ganesh, the inaugural world champion in the short classic physique division at the WNBF Worlds. They discuss Shreenath's journey from India to becoming a champion, the rise of natural bodybuilding in India, the challenges faced by athletes, and the cultural perspectives surrounding bodybuilding. Shreenath shares his aspirations to promote natural bodybuilding and uplift fellow athletes in his community, emphasizing the importance of delayed gratification and hard work in achieving success.

    If you're in the market for some lifting gear or apparel, be sure to check out EliteFTS.com (and use our code "MRR10" for a 10% discount)

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to the New Classic Physique Champion
    02:49 Shreenath's Journey to Becoming a World Champion
    06:08 The Rise of Natural Bodybuilding in India
    08:58 Challenges and Triumphs in Bodybuilding
    11:55 Cultural Perspectives on Bodybuilding in India
    15:01 Future Aspirations and Goals for Natural Bodybuilding
    17:56 Conclusion and Reflections on the Journey

    Afficher plus Afficher moins
    1 h et 9 min
  • Ep 361 - Are N = 1 Anecdotes Meaningless?
    Jan 8 2026

    In this episode of Iron Culture, Eric Helms and MASS Research discuss the importance of self-experimentation in fitness, the history and significance of statistics in science, and the balance between skepticism and curiosity in science communication. They explore the claims made about self-experimentation, the role of statistical significance versus meaningful outcomes, and the necessity of integrating various sources of evidence in practice. The conversation emphasizes the importance of humility and open-mindedness in the pursuit of knowledge and understanding in the fitness community.


    If you're in the market for some lifting gear or apparel, be sure to check out EliteFTS.com (and use our code "MRR10" for a 10% discount)


    Chapters

    00:00 Celebrating Milestones: Personal Reflections

    06:33 Housekeeping: Supporting the Podcast

    08:20 The Intersection of Science and Lifting

    10:43 Self-Experimentation: Claims and Critiques

    14:05 The History of Statistics in Science

    22:26 Understanding Scientific Consensus and Its Pitfalls

    30:10 Navigating Science Communication and Expertise

    34:20 The Complexity of Self-Experimentation

    39:45 Understanding Individual Responses in Exercise Science

    44:24 Navigating the Challenges of Self-Experimentation

    49:03 The Importance of Meaningful Outcomes

    54:40 Integrating Evidence-Based Practice

    01:01:52 The Balance of Skepticism and Curiosity in Fitness Science


    Afficher plus Afficher moins
    1 h et 10 min
  • Ep 360 - WNBF Champs Eddie Saldana and Max Melchard
    Dec 30 2025

    In this episode of Iron Culture, Eric Helms interviews WNBF Pro champions Eddie Saldana and Max Melchard, discussing their journeys in natural bodybuilding, the competitive mindset, and the culture of bodybuilding in Europe. They share insights on training, conditioning, and the importance of enjoying the process of bodybuilding. The conversation highlights the growth of natural bodybuilding and the unique challenges and experiences faced by competitors.


    If you're in the market for some lifting gear or apparel, be sure to check out EliteFTS.com (and use our code "MRR10" for a 10% discount)


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Champions

    02:55 Eddie Saldana's Journey to the Top

    06:00 Max Melchard's Competitive Spirit

    08:57 The Importance of Passion in Bodybuilding

    12:06 The Competitive Landscape of Bodybuilding

    15:06 Personal Stories and Training Histories

    18:00 The Evolution of Eddie and Max's Careers

    20:48 Reflections on Competition and Personal Growth

    29:44 The Journey of Competition

    36:51 Building Confidence and Experience

    43:41 The Natural Bodybuilding Culture in Europe

    50:58 Life Beyond Bodybuilding

    59:35 The Journey of Self-Improvement

    01:01:38 Navigating Relationships During Prep

    01:04:38 Future Competitive Plans and Off-Season Strategies

    01:11:36 Balancing Family Life and Bodybuilding

    01:19:31 The Impact of Parenthood on Competitive Sports

    01:24:49 Looking Ahead: Goals and Aspirations

    Afficher plus Afficher moins
    1 h et 30 min
  • Ep 359 - Tribalism in Evidence-Based Fitness
    Dec 24 2025

    In this episode of Iron Culture, hosts Eric Trexler and Eric Helms discuss various themes surrounding fitness, nutrition, and the importance of open discourse in the community. The conversation addresses criticism received from listeners, the role of cynicism versus skepticism in fitness discussions, and the necessity of engaging with differing perspectives for personal and professional growth. The episode concludes with a call for self-awareness and openness in navigating the complexities of fitness discourse.


    If you're looking for some high-quality lifting gear or apparel, be sure to visit elitefts.com and use our discount code "MRR10" for a 10% discount.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Holiday Greetings

    02:18 Tiny Utensils and Eating Behavior

    05:40 The Controversy Surrounding Brian Wansink

    08:23 Updates and Future Directions for Iron Culture

    11:20 Addressing Criticism and Community Discourse

    17:20 Navigating Evidence-Based Practice and Guest Selection

    30:27 Evaluating Content and Moral Standards

    32:35 The Role of Evidence in Interviews

    34:11 Career Paths in Fitness and Coaching

    36:54 Critiques and Misunderstandings in Fitness

    40:34 Navigating Disagreements in Evidence-Based Fitness

    46:16 Cynicism vs. Skepticism in Fitness Discourse

    55:45 The Shift from Ideas to Personal Attacks

    59:03 The Drama of Evidence-Based Fitness

    01:01:47 The Importance of Empirical Science

    01:06:14 Navigating Cynicism and Skepticism

    01:12:21 Engaging with Different Perspectives

    01:17:59 Self-Awareness in Fitness Discourse

    01:24:08 The Role of Change and Growth in Fitness

    Afficher plus Afficher moins
    1 h et 29 min
  • Ep 358 - WNBF Champs Christine Reinhart and Sarah Oase
    Dec 17 2025

    In this episode of Iron Culture, Eric Helms is joined by natural bodybuilders Christine Reinhart and Sarah Oase, who share their journeys in the sport, their experiences at recent competitions, and the challenges faced in women's bodybuilding. They discuss the importance of camaraderie among competitors, the evolution of their training and competition strategies, and the significance of earning pro cards. The conversation highlights the need for greater visibility and support for women's bodybuilding, as well as the personal growth and empowerment that comes from competing. They also share their future plans, emphasizing the need for advocacy and community support in women's bodybuilding, aiming to inspire more women to participate in the sport.


    If you're in the market for some new gym gear or apparel, be sure to support our friends over at elitefts.com and use our code ("MRR10") for a 10% discount.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction

    03:00 Christine Reinhart's Journey in Bodybuilding

    05:43 Sarah Oase's Athletic Background and Transition to Bodybuilding

    11:54 The Importance of Age in Bodybuilding

    14:52 Competitive Experiences and Achievements

    20:49 Camaraderie in Natural Bodybuilding

    26:55 Challenges in Women's Bodybuilding

    29:52 Future of Women's Bodybuilding and Closing Thoughts

    36:59 The Evolution of Bodybuilding Careers

    38:51 Challenging Gender Norms in Bodybuilding

    42:40 Promoting Women's Bodybuilding

    49:22 Personal Journeys in Competitive Bodybuilding

    57:28 Validation Through Competition

    01:06:08 Finding Potential and Growth in Bodybuilding

    01:13:20 Navigating Challenges in Competition

    01:16:15 Recognizing Potential and Achievements

    01:18:27 Experiences at the World Championships

    01:22:29 The Subjectivity of Competition

    01:25:28 The Future of Women's Bodybuilding

    01:30:21 Future Plans and Off-Season Goals

    Afficher plus Afficher moins
    1 h et 45 min
  • Ep 357 - WNBF Champs Heitor Sousa and Adão Martins
    Dec 10 2025

    In this episode of Iron Culture, Eric Helms is joined by world champions Heitor Sousa and Adão Martins to discuss their journeys in natural bodybuilding. They reflect on their experiences at the WNBF Worlds, the importance of community and support, and the lessons learned from both victories and setbacks. The conversation highlights their friendship, resilience, and the significance of never giving up in the pursuit of excellence in bodybuilding. They reflect on their successful competition year, the art of bodybuilding, strategies for competing annually, the importance of health and longevity, and the supportive community within the sport. The discussion emphasizes the balance between on-season and off-season training, the significance of mental health, and the shared passion for bodybuilding that unites athletes across the globe.


    If you're in the market for some lifting gear or apparel, be sure to check out EliteFTS.com (and use our code "MRR10" for a 10% discount)


    Chapters

    0:00 Introduction to Iron Culture and Competitors

    02:52 The Journey of Heitor and Adao in Bodybuilding

    05:58 First Competitive Experiences and Challenges

    08:53 The Importance of Community and Support in Bodybuilding

    12:06 Reflections on Early Competitions and Learning Experiences

    15:04 The Growth and Evolution of Heitor and Adao

    17:56 The Role of Feedback and Improvement in Competitions

    21:00 The Significance of Perseverance in Bodybuilding

    23:46 Looking Ahead: Future Goals and Aspirations

    33:45 Celebrating Wins Together

    36:42 Experiences from Major Competitions

    39:42 Learning and Growth in Bodybuilding

    42:07 The Journey to World Championships

    46:12 Reflecting on 2024's Achievements

    49:32 Competing Frequently and Its Impact

    51:59 The Art of Bodybuilding and Continuous Improvement

    57:04 Balancing Competition and Health

    1:06:10 Body Composition and Individual Differences

    1:08:04 Training and Nutrition Strategies for Competitors

    1:10:56 The Importance of Off-Season Planning

    1:13:57 Mental Approach to Training and Competition

    1:17:59 Community and Relationships in Bodybuilding

    1:26:57 Future Plans and Final Thoughts

    Afficher plus Afficher moins
    1 h et 42 min
  • Ep 356 - Pain-Free Training (ft. Dr. John Rusin)
    Dec 3 2025

    In this episode of Iron Culture, Eric Trexler interviews Dr. John Rusin, a personal trainer and strength coach with a doctorate in physical therapy. They discuss Dr. Rusin's journey from working with professional athletes to focusing on general population training, emphasizing the importance of injury prevention and pain management. Dr. Rusin shares insights from his new book, 'Pain-Free Performance,' which outlines foundational movement patterns and the significance of individualization in training. The conversation highlights the need for a well-rounded approach to fitness that prioritizes health and longevity alongside performance.


    If you're in the market for some lifting gear or apparel, be sure to check out EliteFTS.com (as use our code "MRR10" for a 10% discount)


    If you want to check out Dr. Rusin's new book, app, or coaching services, check out these links:


    https://www.amazon.com/Pain-Free-Performance-Better-Smarter-Unbreakable/dp/162860509X/ref=zg_bs_g_4645_d_sccl_95/134-5360092-2910026?psc=1

    becomeunbreakable.com

    https://www.drjohnrusincoaching.com

    If you want to stay up-to-date with Dr. Rusin, you can check out his website and social media profiles:


    https://drjohnrusin.com

    https://www.instagram.com/drjohnrusin

    https://www.facebook.com/drjohnrusin

    https://www.youtube.com/@Dr.JohnRusin


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Dr. John Rusin

    02:44 Journey from Athlete to Coach

    05:52 High Performance Athletics and Injury Prevention

    08:46 Transitioning from Physical Therapy to Performance Coaching

    11:38 The Shift to General Population and Longevity

    14:43 Understanding Pain and Movement

    17:34 Foundational Movement Patterns in Training

    31:44 Rebuilding the Foundation: Movement Patterns and Training

    40:31 The Six Physical Characteristics of Health and Longevity

    52:49 Individualization and Optimization in Movement

    01:00:41 Empowering Pain-Free Performance

    Afficher plus Afficher moins
    1 h et 7 min