Muscle for Life with Mike Matthews
by 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
Episodes
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The Final Episode (For Now)
Yup—it’s true—after more than 10 years and nearly 1,200 episodes, I’ve decided to step away from the Muscle for Life podcast… at least for now. In this final episode, I share how I came to the decision to pause the pod, what’s next for me and Legion, and how I’ll continue creating content to help...
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Ep. #1188: Q&A: Beating Bad Habits, Free-weight Leg Day, Legion Clear Protein, & More
In this episode, I discuss strategies to beat bad eating habits, my favorite free-weight exercises for leg day, upcoming developments with Legion Clear Protein, and more. As always, these questions come directly from my Instagram followers, who take advantage of my weekly Q&As in my stories. If…
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Ep. #1187: Dr. Robert Waldinger on Happiness Lessons from Harvard Researchc
What’s the secret to living a long, happy life? How do relationships influence happiness and longevity? How does social connection impact stress and well-being? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Robert Waldinger, director of the Harvard Study of Adult Development and author of The Good Life…
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Ep. #1186: Q&A: Deadlift Variations, Problem-Solving Tips, Best Foods for Gains, & More
In this episode, I discuss the best carb and calorie-efficient foods for muscle growth, how to optimize deadlift variations, my top tips for problem-solving, 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...
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Ep. #1185: Don Saladino on How Celebrities and Busy Professionals Train
How do Hollywood stars transform their physiques for the big screen? Are Hollywood transformations really achievable without performance enhancers? Can you achieve your fitness goals with limited time and imperfect nutrition? In this episode, I sit down with Don Saladino, an acclaimed celebrity...
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Ep. #1184: Jonathan Goodman on Writing, Success, and Finding Your Way
Why is simplicity so important in marketing? What is the “unique game” approach, and why does it work? And how does storytelling help you build trust and achieve long-term results? In this episode, I sit down with Jonathan Goodman, acclaimed author and entrepreneur, to discuss the insights behind...
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Ep. #1183: How My Coaching Helped Matt Lose 24 lb. in 24 Weeks
In this episode, I sit down with Matt, a busy professional in his 50s, who lost 24 pounds in 24 weeks with my body transformation coaching program. Years ago, Matt read Bigger Leaner Stronger and learned the fundamentals of diet and training. Despite understanding the principles, he had always...
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Ep. #1182: Q&A: When to Consider TRT, Colostrum Supplements, Sauna Benefits & More
In this episode, I discuss when to consider TRT, the benefits of sauna use for recovery and overall health, whether colostrum supplementation lives up to its reputation and lots more. As always, these questions come directly from my Instagram followers, who take advantage of my weekly Q&As in…
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Ep. #1181: MERRY BERRY CRIMBO
I hope this podcast finds you in the end-of-year holiday haze, wholly unbothered, moisturized, happy, in your lane, focused, and flourishing. In this podcast, I’m saying what some people (Marxoids) believe you shouldn’t say anymore . . . MERRY CHRISTMAS . . . or if you’re of the heathen…
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Ep. #1180: Pat Flynn on Fun & Functional Kettlebell Training
What makes kettlebell training so effective for building muscle, gaining strength, and improving mobility? Can it replace traditional lifting? And how can you incorporate kettlebells into your training for more variety and fun? In this episode, I welcome back Pat Flynn. As the founder of Strong...
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Ep. #1179: Stan Efferding on Making Fitness Simpler & More Sustainable
What’s the secret to a sustainable diet that actually works? And how can you successfully integrate fitness into your busy schedule? Stan Efferding, acclaimed powerlifter, coach, and creator of The Vertical Diet, returns to the podcast to reveal how simple, realistic habits can transform your...
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Ep. #1178: Brad Schoenfeld on Optimal Rest Times for Muscle Gain
How long should you rest between sets to maximize muscle growth? And how does this vary based on exercise type, training intensity, and fitness level? In this episode, I welcome back Brad Schoenfeld, PhD, an internationally renowned fitness expert, author, educator, lecturer, and researcher…
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Ep. #1177: Q&A: Sodium-Potassium Ratio, Best Lifting Belt, Overcoming Workout Funks & More
In this episode, I discuss the optimal sodium-potassium ratio, recommendations for the best lifting belts, strategies for overcoming motivation slumps, 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...
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Ep. #1176: Dr. Bill Campbell on the Science of Food and Weight Tracking
How can tracking food and body weight enhance your fitness journey? What are the proven benefits, and are there potential drawbacks? In this episode, I welcome back Dr. Bill Campbell, one of the world’s leading experts in exercise science and sports nutrition. If you’re not familiar with Dr....
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Ep. #1175: The “Natty Limit,” the Best Time to Train, My Supplement Stack & More
In this episode, I discuss the natural limits of muscle growth and how genetics play a role, my daily Legion supplement stack, the best time to go to the gym 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...
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Ep. #1174: Mark Divine on Becoming Uncommon In Body, Mind, and Soul
How can being "uncommon" help us overcome challenges and grow personally? How can we build resilience, enhance emotional control, and lead with purpose? In this interview, I welcome back Mark Divine, a former Navy SEAL, bestselling author, and mindfulness expert, who shares his approach to...
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Ep. #1173: Q&A: Strength Loss on a Cut, Training with Back Pain, Ideal Body Fat Percentage & More
In this episode, I discuss strength loss during cutting, how to train with lower back injuries, the ideal body fat percentage for health, nutrition strategies, and lots more. As always, these questions come directly from my Instagram followers, who take advantage of my weekly Q&As in my stories.…
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Ep. #1172: How My Coaching Helped Michael Lose 30 lb. in 6 Months
In this episode, I talk with Michael, who experienced a life-changing transformation through Legion's coaching service. Michael had always been active, but it wasn't until he hit 245 pounds that he decided to go all in on improving his fitness. He started following the Bigger Leaner Stronger...
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Ep. #1171: Dr. David Yeager on Helping Youth Build Confidence & Succeed
What motivates young people? How can we help young adults boost their confidence and self-esteem? In this interview, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Dr. David Yeager, a leading behavioral scientist at the University of Texas at Austin, who specializes in youth motivation. He shares…
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Ep. #1170: Q&A: Fasted Training for Muscle Growth, Aggressive Dieting, Leg Day
In this episode, I discuss the benefits of fasted training for muscle growth, the pros and cons of aggressive dieting, optimal leg day frequency, 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...
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Ep. #1168: 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...
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Ep. #1167: 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...
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Ep. #1166: 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...
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Ep. #1165: 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...
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Ep. #1164: How My Coaching Helped Martin Lose 9 lb. 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...
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Ep.#1163: 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...
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Ep. #1162: 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...
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Ep. #1161: Dr. Christina Prevett on Training During & After Pregnancy
Should pregnant women lift weights? If so, how can they do it safely? How soon after delivery can they start training again? Can strength training improve postpartum recovery? Dr. Christina Prevett PT, PhD, is the founder of Barbell Mamas and has spent years studying how strength training can...
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Ep. #1160: Sal Di Stefano on Enhancing Body Composition with Peptides
How are peptides shaping the future of fat loss and fitness? How do they impact weight management and overall health? How do they work, and what are the risks and side effects? In this episode, I sit down with Sal Di Stefano, renowned fitness coach and co-host of the Mind Pump Podcast, to delve...
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Ep. #1159: Dr. Stephen Seiler on the Right (and Wrong) Ways to Improve Endurance
What’s the best way to boost your endurance without overtraining or getting injured? Should you try to “hack” your physiology with hard intervals, Tabata workouts, and HIIT? Should you mimic the training methods of famous athletes? Or something else entirely? In this episode, I chat with Dr....
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Ep. #1158: Q&A: Minicuts, Squat & Deadlift Alternatives, Overcoming Fear of Rejection, & More
In this episode, I discuss the potential benefits of minicuts, the best alternatives to the squat and deadlift, how to overcome the fear of rejection, 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…
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Ep. #1157: Arthur Brooks on How to Be Happier
What does it really mean to “be happy?” How do fitness, faith, relationships, and daily routines contribute to a fulfilling life? And what practical steps can you take to enhance your emotional well-being? In this episode, I chat with Arthur Brooks, a Harvard professor, bestselling author…
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Ep. #1156: Simon Hill on the 10 Must-Track Health Metrics for a Longer Life
What are the top ten “biomarkers” that can help you predict how long and healthy your life will be? And how can you track and improve these to increase your chances of a healthier, longer life? In this episode, I chat with Simon Hill, a physiotherapist, nutrition scientist, podcaster, and author…
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Ep. #1155: Q&A: Training When Sleep-Deprived, Shoulder Impingement Fixes, Growing Stubborn Muscles & More
In this episode, I discuss whether you should prioritize sleep or training when sleep-deprived, shoulder impingement fixes, strategies to make stubborn muscles grow, and lots more. As always, these questions come directly from my Instagram followers, who take advantage of my weekly Q&As in my...
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Ep. #1154: How My Coaching Helped Shaun Lose 35 Lb. in 6 Months
In this episode, I talk with Shaun, who achieved remarkable results with Legion’s body transformation coaching service. Shaun had struggled with his weight for over a decade. But at 270 pounds, he faced a health scare that prompted him to make a serious change. After failing to lose weight on...
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Ep. #1153: Cal Newport on the Future of AI and Knowledge Work
Is artificial intelligence a quantum leap forward for humanity? The key to world peace, the cure for disease and aging, and the springboard to the abundant, leisure-filled future depicted in science fiction novels? Or is it the death knell for humanity as they know it? Or something in between? In...
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Ep. #1152: Milo Wolf on High-Volume Training
Most weightlifters know that training volume is a crucial factor in maximizing muscle growth. But how much volume is optimal? And at what point does doing more sets become counterproductive? To help answer these questions, I interviewed Dr. Milo Wolf, a published sports scientist, competitive...
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Ep. #1151: Jordan Syatt on Achieving Holistic Health
It’s tempting to view health as a purely physical pursuit, especially in the age of social media and constant visual stimuli. We often associate being healthy with having a fit physique, but health doesn’t mean having abs or being the strongest person in the gym. True health encompasses much more...
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Ep. #1150: Q&A: Hybrid Training, Chronic Sleep Deprivation & Gains, Conspiracy Theories, & More
From the potential downsides of TRT for individuals with moderate testosterone levels to strategies for mitigating the effects of chronic sleep deprivation, in this episode, I dive into a wide array of topics based on questions from my loyal Instagram followers. I also get into a few “fun” ones,...
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Ep. #1149: Dr. Stephan Guyenet on Outsmarting Obesity
Why are obesity rates skyrocketing in the modern world? Do we simply lack willpower, or are deeper forces at play? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Stephan Guyenet, a renowned obesity researcher, science communicator, and author of the book The Hungry Brain. With his expertise in neuroscience...
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Ep. #1148: Dr. Bill Campbell on Boosting Fat Loss With Protein
Protein has long been hailed as the key macronutrient for building and maintaining muscle mass. But what about its role in fat loss? As it turns out, increasing your protein intake might be one of the most underrated strategies for shedding fat. In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Bill Campbell, a...
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Ep. #1147: Louisa Nicola on Optimizing Brain Health
Every day, your lifestyle choices cast a lasting impact on your brain's health, often without your conscious awareness. As we grow older, the stakes get higher—maintaining optimal brain function is not just an option; it's essential for a vibrant and productive life. But how exactly can you…
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Ep. #1146: Q&A: Sleep Strategies for Late Nights, Skinny Leg Solution, Microdosing Caffeine, & More
In this episode, I tackle a variety of questions ranging from training and supplementation, to the threat of AI towards humanity. I discuss how to grow skinny legs efficiently, how to optimize your sleep and wake-up time after a late night, whether hyperextensions are a good exercise, and a lot...
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Ep. #1145: Mike Israetel on Mike Mentzer’s “Heavy Duty” HIT Training
Mike Mentzer's high-intensity training (HIT) method has been experiencing a resurgence in popularity lately, but does the science support its effectiveness? In this episode, I talk with Dr. Mike Israetel to get his take on the pros and cons of Mentzer's Heavy Duty Workout approach. In case you're...
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Ep. #1144: How My Coaching Helped Luke Lose 43 Lbs in 8 Months
In this episode, I talk with Luke, who achieved a dramatic body transformation through Legion’s one-on-one coaching program. Luke had struggled with his weight for over a decade, experiencing short-term success through extreme dieting and cardio, only to regain the weight. However, working with…
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Ep. #1143: Dr. Stuart Phillips on Optimizing Protein Intake for Muscle Growth
How much protein can your body actually use in one sitting? Is there an upper limit to muscle protein synthesis? Does protein timing really matter? If you're serious about gaining muscle, you've likely asked these questions and many more like them. To help answer these questions, I interviewed…
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Ep. #1142: Q&A: Training For Explosiveness, Genetics & Vascularity, Electrolyte Supplements, & More
In this episode, I tackle a diverse array of questions from my dedicated Instagram followers, ranging from optimizing muscle explosiveness, to the influence of genetics on vascularity. I’ll also get into the age-old debate of zone 2 cardio versus high-intensity interval training, the benefits of...
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Ep. #1141: Harry Barnes on Overcoming Fat Loss Plateaus
Are you doing everything right but still not seeing progress on the scale? If you're eating in a calorie deficit, training hard, and still not losing weight, don't worry—you're not alone. And more importantly, there are solutions. In this episode, I talk with Harry Barnes, who not only has 12…
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Ep. #1140: Layne Norton on Exposing Fitness Pseudoscience and Misinformation
In the age of social media, it's easier than ever to fall victim to fitness misinformation. From fad diets to questionable supplements, how can you tell what's legit and what's just clever marketing? In this episode, Layne Norton shares his strategies for identifying pseudoscience and making...
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Ep. #1139: Cal Newport on the Case for “Slow Productivity”
In today's fast-paced world, the chase for more—more output, more success, more everything—often leads to burnout and dissatisfaction. What if there was a better way? In this episode, I interview Cal Newport, who offers a refreshing perspective on the productivity conversation. Specifically, he...
About this show
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
Hosted by
Mike Matthews