The Mind Muscle Connection

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast.We all deal with stress, but most people underestimate how much it affects their progress in the gym and their overall health.In this episode, I explain my stress bucket analogy and how it can help you understand why progress can become harder when your total stress load gets too high. I also cover what you can do to better manage stress so your body is in a better position to recover, adapt, and make progress. If you're having a hard time or wondering why your body isn't responding the way you expect, this episode will give you a different way to look at the problem.Let's talk about:Free Body Recomp Workshop ReminderThe Stress Bucket AnalogyWhy an Overloaded Stress Bucket Causes ProblemsWhat Happens When Your Bucket OverflowsCortisol and Stress RegulationThe Different Sources of StressPsychological and Emotional StressPhysical Stress and TrainingBody Composition as a StressorNutrition and Blood SugarGut Health and InflammationSleep and Circadian RhythmEnvironmental StressorsSigns Your Stress Bucket Is Too FullHow to Reduce Your Stress LoadHow to Build a Bigger Stress BucketWhy Cardio Improves Stress ToleranceMuscle, Recovery, and SleepNutrition, Mindset, and ResilienceFinal ThoughtsBody Recomp Replay: https://chipper-producer-6244.kit.com/791129889cFollow me on Instagram for more information and education:https://www.instagram.com/jeffhoehn_/?hl=enHow You Can Work With Me?:https://jhhealth.net/workwithme/Coaching application:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfE-99wLDZRXlOOY1pWuAmkogdZOm-7ZvN_thbqNWLdNrj5bg/viewform

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!In this episode, Bryan Boorstein is back on the podcast for another great conversation about training, recovery, cardio and hypertrophy. We discuss how Bryan uses recovery metrics like resting heart rate and HRV to monitor readiness and why long-term trends matter more than focusing on any single data point. We also get into his current training approach, including his transition away from full-body training, the upper/lower split he is using, and the 15-10-5 protocol that allows him to create a strong training stimulus while managing fatigue. If you want to train more efficiently and better balance lifting, cardio, and recovery, this episode is a must-listen. Let’s talk about:00:00 Introduction02:16 Catching Up With Bryan04:24 Using HRV and Resting Heart Rate to Track Recovery10:50 How to Look at HRV Data14:46 Bryan’s Current Training Approach16:57 The 15-10-5 Training Protocol20:08 Making Training More Efficient21:00 Mechanical Tension and Exercise Execution23:28 Pyramid vs. Reverse Pyramid Training24:54 How Bryan Progresses the 15-10-5 Method27:09 How Rep Ranges Change Exercise Execution31:33 Bryan’s Cardio Training Approach34:24 Why Cardio Progression Is Different Than Weight Training37:29 Training in the Heat38:38 Bryan’s TRT Update44:20 Changes in Resting Heart Rate After TRT45:40 Exercise Selection and Stimulus-to-Fatigue Ratio46:35 Why More Range of Motion Isn’t Always Better49:09 The 45-Degree Hip Extension52:29 Where to Find Bryan and His Current ProjectsFollow Bryan on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/bryanboorstein/Follow me on Instagram for more information and education:https://www.instagram.com/jeffhoehn_/?hl=enHow You Can Work With Me?: https://jhhealth.net/workwithme/Coaching application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfE-99wLDZRXlOOY1pWuAmkogdZOm-7ZvN_thbqNWLdNrj5bg/viewformBody Recomp Checklist 2.0: https://chipper-producer-6244.kit.com/26b5c9f94a

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast.Getting lean is about much more than willpower. In this episode, I go into what actually determines how lean you can get and what it really takes to maintain it. I look at how genetics, muscle mass, activity levels, nutrition, stress, sleep, and your body fat history all shape the range your body can realistically sustain.I also look at why forcing yourself to stay extremely lean tends to backfire over time and how your sustainable body fat range can shift as your habits improve. On top of that, I get into what it really means to balance how you look with how you perform, recover, and feel day to day.If you have ever wondered why staying lean feels easy for some people and much harder for others, this episode will make that a lot clearer.Let’s talk about:Free Body Recomp WorkshopWhy Willpower Isn’t the Biggest FactorWhat Actually Determines How Lean You Can GetWhy Your Sustainable Body Fat Range Changes Over TimeWhen Being Too Lean Starts to Hurt Your HealthHow Gender Affects Body Fat Levels The Role of GeneticsWhy More Muscle Helps You Stay LeanerHow Activity Levels Affect Body CompositionNutrition Skills and Proper FuelingFinding a Body Fat Level You Can MaintainManaging Stress for Better Results Why Sleep MattersHow Your Body Fat History Impacts ProgressKey TakeawaysFree Body Recomp live workshop, Thursday, July 9th at 1:00 PM Central Time.       Sign up here to get access: https://chipper-producer-6244.kit.com/e0ad63a2b2  Follow me on Instagram for more information and education:https://www.instagram.com/jeffhoehn_/?hl=enHow You Can Work With Me?: https://jhhealth.net/workwithme/Coaching application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfE-99wLDZRXlOOY1pWuAmkogdZOm-7ZvN_thbqNWLdNrj5bg/viewformBody Recomp Checklist 2.0: https://chipper-producer-6244.kit.com/26b5c9f94a

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!If you leave the gym feeling beat up or you're not building muscle the way you expected, this episode is for you. Today, I break down some of the biggest progression mistakes I see and explain why training harder isn't always the answer. Sometimes the way you progress your training is what holds you back.I also go over a few simple changes you can make to your training that can help you recover better and keep making progress. I explain why you don't need to chase a new PR every workout, how to think about rep ranges, and when it actually makes sense to increase the weight. If your workouts have been leaving you feeling more beat up than stronger, this episode will help you train in a way that's more productive over the long term.Let's talk about:00:00 Introduction00:26 Coaching and App Updates01:57 The Most Important Part of Building Muscle03:42 Why You Don't Need to Progress Every Workout07:11 Make Smaller Progressions10:14 Lower Body vs Upper Body Progression12:16 Using Small Weight Increases on Machines and Cables13:37 Don't Let Rep Ranges Hold You Back15:42 You Don't Have to Match Last Week's Reps17:00 Stop Chasing the Top of the Rep Range18:00 Recap and Final TakeawaysI'm hosting a FREE Body Recomp Live Workshop next Thursday, July 9Register Here: https://chipper-producer-6244.kit.com/e0ad63a2b2Follow me on Instagram for more information and education:https://www.instagram.com/jeffhoehn_/?hl=enHow You Can Work With Me?: https://jhhealth.net/workwithme/Coaching application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfE-99wLDZRXlOOY1pWuAmkogdZOm-7ZvN_thbqNWLdNrj5bg/viewformBody Recomp Checklist 2.0: https://chipper-producer-6244.kit.com/26b5c9f94a

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection PodcastIn today’s episode, I break down a better way to run a building phase. A lot of people come out of fat loss and either stay too conservative with calories or keep pushing body weight up the entire time thinking that’s what they need to do to build muscle. Both approaches tend to backfire in different ways.I go through how I now set up building phases for myself and clients, the common mistakes I see, and why most people would benefit from letting body weight come up a bit, then stabilizing instead of constantly chasing scale weight. The goal here is to improve body composition long term without unnecessary fat gain or staying stuck in a low energy state.Let’s talk about:Coaching updates and working with clientsDopamine habits, phone checking, and awareness around distractionsWhat a better approach to building phases looks likeMistake 1 keeping calories too low after fat lossMistake 2 constantly pushing body weight up during a bulkHow much weight to gain before stabilizingWhat “feeling your best” actually meansEnergy, recovery, digestion, and performance markersBlood work and additional health markersWho typically gets stuck in these patternsWhy this approach works better long termTraining quality matters more than constantly increasing caloriesWhy this limits unnecessary fat gainStaying in healthier body fat rangesWhat actually drives progress in a building phaseSleep, stress, and recovery considerationsWhat to do when body weight stabilizesAdjusting calories up or down after stabilizationWhy scale weight does not need to be perfectly stableFollow me on Instagram for more information and education:https://www.instagram.com/jeffhoehn_/?hl=enHow You Can Work With Me?: https://jhhealth.net/workwithme/Coaching application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfE-99wLDZRXlOOY1pWuAmkogdZOm-7ZvN_thbqNWLdNrj5bg/viewformBody Recomp Checklist 2.0: https://chipper-producer-6244.kit.com/26b5c9f94a

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!Most people think the only reason to get into a calorie deficit is to lose body fat, but there can be benefits beyond just getting leaner. In this episode, I break down five reasons why spending time in a fat loss phase every so often can be valuable, including metabolic health, hunger management, nutrition habits, and long-term body composition.I also discuss how often fat loss phases may make sense, when smaller energy stressors can be useful, what determines how long a fat loss phase should last, and the signs it may be time to return to maintenance calories. So if you’re not sure how often you should run a fat loss phase, this episode is a must listen. Let's talk about:Why You Should Run a Fat Loss Phase Every So OftenFat Loss, Health & Body CompositionMetabolic Health & Metabolic FlexibilityLearning Hunger ManagementA Psychological ResetBuilding Physiological ResilienceSmall Energy Stressors vs Full Fat Loss PhasesHow Often Should You Run a Fat Loss Phase?How Long Should a Fat Loss Phase Last?Signs It's Time to End a Fat Loss PhaseFinal Takeaways Follow me on Instagram for more information and education:https://www.instagram.com/jeffhoehn_/?hl=enHow You Can Work With Me?: https://jhhealth.net/workwithme/Coaching application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfE-99wLDZRXlOOY1pWuAmkogdZOm-7ZvN_thbqNWLdNrj5bg/viewformBody Recomp Checklist 2.0: https://chipper-producer-6244.kit.com/26b5c9f94a

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast! In today's episode, I have Brandon Cruz back on for another deep dive, this time into body recomposition, training execution, and what actually drives progress in trained individuals. We break down how much results depend on structure, progression, and proximity to failure versus just being consistent in the gym.We also talk about a recent study on recomp in resistance trained lifters, why maintenance and deficit outcomes get misread, and how small tracking errors can skew the results. Then we cover protein intake, volume progression, and what actually separates people who are optimizing from those just spinning their wheels.If you want to understand what actually drives body recomposition and cut through the maintenance vs deficit confusion, this episode is a must listen.Let's talk about:Introduction and catch up with BrandonDefining body recomposition and the three forms it can takeTraining consistency vs structured progressionWhy recomp is often phasic rather than truly simultaneousWho recomps easiest: newbies and those with excess body fatDetrained individuals and muscle memoryWorking out vs actually trainingAdvanced vs intermediate liftersWhat training close to failure actually meansBreaking down the Vargas Molina recomp studyThe maintenance vs deficit debateEnergy balance model and tracking limitationsVolume progression in the researchEnhanced trainees and the natural physiological ceilingHow anabolic steroids affect nutrient partitioningTRT and hormones, and when they actually helpMyostatin inhibitors and future therapeuticsGLP1s and lean mass lossPractical takeaways and wrap upFollow me on Instagram for more information and education:https://www.instagram.com/jeffhoehn_/?hl=enHow You Can Work With Me?: https://jhhealth.net/workwithme/Coaching application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfE-99wLDZRXlOOY1pWuAmkogdZOm-7ZvN_thbqNWLdNrj5bg/viewformBody Recomp Checklist 2.0: https://chipper-producer-6244.kit.com/26b5c9f94a

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!Many people finish a building phase feeling frustrated because they didn’t gain as much muscle as they expected. In today’s episode, I explain why that happens, why a short building phase is rarely enough to create dramatic physique changes, and why muscle growth is often much slower than people realize.I also discuss the biggest mistakes people make during a build, why spending time out of a calorie deficit is so important, how muscle can still be gained without aggressively pushing body weight up, and the key training and nutrition factors that actually drive muscle growth. If you've ever finished a bulk disappointed with your results, struggled to build muscle, or wondered how long a building phase should really last, this episode is for you.Let’s talk about:Why Time Out of a Deficit MattersReframing What a Building Phase Really IsWhy Muscle Growth Takes Longer Than You ThinkWhy Faster Weight Gain Doesn't Mean Faster Muscle GainBuilding Muscle Without Constantly Gaining WeightWhy Scale Weight Doesn't Tell the Full StoryThe Importance of Focusing on InputsTraining Frequency for Muscle GrowthTraining Intensity and EffortThe Best Rep Ranges for Building MuscleExercise Selection and Equipment ConsiderationsWhy Training Often Becomes the Limiting FactorNutrition Factors Beyond CaloriesSleep, Recovery, and Stress ManagementWhy You Still Need Time Out of a DeficitLimitations of DEXA Scans and Body Composition TestingWhy Long-Term Consistency Matters More Than One BulkAre Short Bulks and Cuts Effective?When Maintenance Phases Make SenseFollow me on Instagram for more information and education:https://www.instagram.com/jeffhoehn_/?hl=enHow You Can Work With Me?: https://jhhealth.net/workwithme/Coaching application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfE-99wLDZRXlOOY1pWuAmkogdZOm-7ZvN_thbqNWLdNrj5bg/viewformBody Recomp Checklist 2.0: https://chipper-producer-6244.kit.com/26b5c9f94a

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Mike Ormsbee to break down the research on pre-sleep nutrition, protein timing, and how eating before bed actually impacts body composition, recovery, and sleep. Mike has spent over two decades studying nutrition and exercise physiology, with a strong focus on how protein intake around sleep affects muscle and metabolism.We discuss what the research actually shows about eating before bed, whether it helps or hurts fat loss, and how pre-sleep protein affects muscle protein synthesis and recovery. We also get into protein type (casein vs whey vs plant), how much protein you really need per day, and why total intake matters more than timing for most people.We also cover collagen supplementation for joint health and pain, what the research says about its effectiveness, and how it should actually be used in practice. Mike also shares how he approaches training and nutrition himself while balancing strength, conditioning, and endurance work.If you’ve ever wondered whether eating before bed is good or bad for fat loss, how to structure your protein intake, or whether supplements like collagen are worth it, this episode will give you a clear breakdown of the research and how to apply it. Let's talk about:Dr. Ormsbee's Background and Research JourneyHow Pre-Sleep Nutrition Research BeganWhat the Research Shows About Eating Before BedPre-Sleep Protein and AppetiteMuscle Protein Synthesis and RecoveryPre-Sleep Nutrition and Sleep QualityWhat Current Sleep Research ShowsWho Benefits Most From Pre-Sleep Protein?Recovery, Performance, and Late-Night TrainingDoes Eating Before Bed Affect Fat Loss?Calories, Food Quality, and Future ResearchSleep Supplements and Pre-Sleep NutritionMain Takeaways on Pre-Sleep ProteinCasein vs Whey vs Plant ProteinHow Much Protein Do You Actually Need?Protein and the Thermic Effect of FoodProtein Distribution and Meal FrequencyThe Leucine ThresholdCollagen and Joint HealthHow to Use CollagenDifferent Types of CollagenMike's Training ApproachNutrition, Body Composition, and Staying LeanWhere to Find Dr. Mike OrmsbeeFollow me on Instagram for more information and education:https://www.instagram.com/jeffhoehn_/?hl=enHow You Can Work With Me?: https://jhhealth.net/workwithme/Coaching application:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfE-99wLDZRXlOOY1pWuAmkogdZOm-7ZvN_thbqNWLdNrj5bg/viewformBody Recomp Checklist 2.0:https://chipper-producer-6244.kit.com/26b5c9f94a

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!Building muscle in a deficit is one of the most misunderstood topics in fitness. So in today's episode, I break down the common mistakes people make when thinking about muscle growth in a deficit, what actually determines your muscle growth potential, and the key inputs that will make or break your results.I also explain why training intensity and volume matter so much, how protein and carbohydrate intake should be approached, why sleep and stress load management play a bigger role than most people think, and how to use cardio and steps without overdoing it. So if you've been trying to build muscle while losing fat, want to stop spinning your wheels in a deficit, or just want a more practical and strategic approach to body recomposition, this episode is a must-listen.Let's talk about:Why Building Muscle In A Deficit Is Tough Common Mistakes & Thought Processes What Determines Muscle Growth Potential Body Fat's Role In Muscle Growth Potential How Current Muscle Mass Affects Potential How Deficit Size Impacts Muscle Growth Potential The Key Inputs That Matter Lifting & Training Volume Spreading The Stimulus Throughout The Week Protein Intake Spreading Protein Across Feedings Carbohydrates Nutrition Around Workouts Sleep & Circadian Rhythm Stress Load Management Cardio & Steps Supplements Summary & TakeawaysFollow me on Instagram for more information and education: https://www.instagram.com/jeffhoehn_/?hl=enHow You Can Work With Me?: https://jhhealth.net/workwithme/Coaching application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfE-99wLDZRXlOOY1pWuAmkogdZOm-7ZvN_thbqNWLdNrj5bg/viewformBody Recomp Checklist 2.0: https://chipper-producer-6244.kit.com/26b5c9f94a

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!Have you ever felt like you're eating below your maintenance calories and doing everything right, but the scale isn't moving? Or maybe it's even going up? In today's episode, I break down some of the most common reasons this happens and why it doesn't always mean you're doing something wrong.I explain why maintenance calories are only estimates, how stress, sleep, hormones, medications, daily activity, and dieting history can impact your calorie needs, and why it's so easy to eat more than you realize without meaning to. I also talk about body recomposition, water retention, weigh in accuracy, and why looking at long term trends is much more important than focusing on a single weigh in.If you've been frustrated with your progress or wondering why your weight isn't dropping despite your efforts, this episode will help you better understand what's really going on and what to do next.Let's talk about:Why You Might Not Be Losing WeightMaintenance Calories May Be Lower Than You ThinkHow Energy Balance Impacts Maintenance CaloriesFactors That Influence Daily Energy ExpenditureDieting History and Metabolic AdaptationsGenetics, Thyroid Function, and HormonesWhy Maintenance Calories Are Just an EstimateLooking at Trends Instead of Predicted NumbersYou're Probably Eating More Than You ThinkCommon Tracking MistakesAlcohol, Meals Out, Stress, and SleepBody Recomposition and Scale WeightWhen Maintaining Weight Can Be a Good ThingWater Retention and Weight FluctuationsWhy You Need to Zoom Out and Look at TrendsProper Weigh In Methods Menstrual Cycle Related Weight Changes The Main Reasons Weight Is Not Going DownFollow me on Instagram for more information and education:https://www.instagram.com/jeffhoehn_/?hl=enHow You Can Work With Me?: https://jhhealth.net/workwithme/Coaching application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfE-99wLDZRXlOOY1pWuAmkogdZOm-7ZvN_thbqNWLdNrj5bg/viewformBody Recomp Checklist 2.0: https://chipper-producer-6244.kit.com/26b5c9f94a

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!Body composition is a topic that gets talked about a lot, but there's still a lot of confusion around how it actually works. A lot of people end up chasing the wrong things, getting frustrated with slow progress, or feeling stuck because they don't fully understand what's actually driving results.In this episode, I break down 10 things I think everyone should understand about body composition, plus one bonus point at the end. I cover why biofeedback and daily habits matter more than obsessing over exact calorie numbers, how muscle gain and fat loss can happen at the same time, why you don't necessarily need to bulk to build muscle, and how your current body composition impacts the strategy that makes the most sense for you. I also talk about diet breaks, maintenance calories, post-diet weight gain, and some of the biggest mistakes that keep people spinning their wheels.If you've been wondering whether you should be focusing on fat loss, muscle gain, or maintenance right now, this episode will help you make a more informed decision.Let's talk about:Biofeedback and inputs matter more than exact calorie numbersYou can build muscle and lose fat at the same timeYou can build muscle in a calorie deficitYou don't need to bulk to build muscleYour current body composition impacts what strategy will workWhy you need time away from fat loss dietingYou can lose fat while maintaining your weightWhat determines how long a fat loss phase should lastWhy your weight will likely increase after fat lossMany people are maintaining on artificially low caloriesBonus: Why smaller people have different calorie realitiesBonus: You're allowed to change plans during a phaseFollow me on Instagram for more information and education:https://www.instagram.com/jeffhoehn_/?hl=enHow You Can Work With Me?:https://jhhealth.net/workwithme/Coaching application:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfE-99wLDZRXlOOY1pWuAmkogdZOm-7ZvN_thbqNWLdNrj5bg/viewformBody Recomp Checklist 2.0:https://chipper-producer-6244.kit.com/26b5c9f94a

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!A lot of people increase their calories expecting things to improve and instead end up feeling like it backfired. The scale jumps, bloating shows up, and suddenly you're questioning whether it was even the right call.This episode gets into why that happens and the most common reasons increasing calories doesn't go the way people expect. It covers situations where calories didn't actually need to go up, what happens when the jump is too aggressive, and how food choices alone can completely change how your body responds. Training quality, tracking errors, stress, recovery, meal timing, and gut health all factor in too and this one breaks down how each one plays into whether eating more actually helps or works against you.Whether you've been second-guessing a recent calorie increase or just want to approach it smarter next time, give this a listen.Let’s talk about:Why people increase calories in the first placeYou didn’t actually need to increase caloriesToo big of a jumpToo much high volume foodToo many calorie dense foods with poor structureUnder reporting caloriesTraining isn’t as good as you thinkHigh stress and poor recoveryMeal timing issuesNot giving it enough timeGut issuesFollow me on Instagram for more information and education:https://www.instagram.com/jeffhoehn_/?hl=enHow You Can Work With Me?: https://jhhealth.net/workwithme/Coaching application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfE-99wLDZRXlOOY1pWuAmkogdZOm-7ZvN_thbqNWLdNrj5bg/viewformBody Recomp Checklist 2.0: https://chipper-producer-6244.kit.com/26b5c9f94a

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!In today’s episode, I talk about the ongoing conversation around body recomposition, bulking, and cutting. Lately, more people have been saying that bulking and cutting is dead, so in this episode I break down what I agree with, where I think people get it wrong, and why context matters when trying to improve your physique. I explain why most people do not need aggressive bulks or cuts to see progress, how fat loss and muscle gain can happen at the same time, why your daily habits matter more than obsessing over exact calorie numbers, and why most people still benefit from different nutrition phases over time.I also go into how body fat levels, training quality, recovery, stress management, and long-term consistency all impact your ability to build muscle while losing fat.If you’ve been confused by the whole recomp conversation, feel stuck between deciding whether to bulk or cut, or just want a more realistic and sustainable approach to improving your body composition, this episode will help clear things up.Let’s talk about:Bulking, Cutting & Recomping ExplainedDifferent Types of Body RecompositionCan You Lose Fat At Maintenance?“Bulking & Cutting Is Dead” DiscussionImproving Inputs Instead of Obsessing Over CaloriesWhy Different Phases Still MatterFat Loss and Muscle Gain at the Same TimeDeficit Size and Muscle Growth Trade-OffsSmall Surpluses and Muscle Growth PotentialWhy Recomping Does Not Last ForeverWhy Nutrition Phases Still MatterPersonal Example of Maintenance and FlexibilityBody Fat Percentage and Goal Considerations The Downside of Staying the Same Weight ForeverFlexible Fat Loss Strategies for ClientsWhy Biofeedback and Inputs Matter MostStop Overfocusing on Calorie NumbersProtein Intake and Muscle GrowthManaging Calories Without PerfectionMeal Timing, Sleep, and Appetite RegulationStress Load Management and Body CompositionFinal Thoughts on Bulking, Cutting, and RecompingFollow me on Instagram for more information and education:https://www.instagram.com/jeffhoehn_/?hl=enHow You Can Work With Me?: https://jhhealth.net/workwithme/Coaching application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfE-99wLDZRXlOOY1pWuAmkogdZOm-7ZvN_thbqNWLdNrj5bg/viewformBody Recomp Checklist 2.0: https://chipper-producer-6244.kit.com/26b5c9f94a

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!A lot of people feel like the second they eat over 1500 calories, they instantly gain weight. In today’s episode, I break down why that feeling happens, why your metabolism probably isn’t broken, and why your maintenance calories may feel artificially low.I also explain the biggest mistakes people make with scale weight fluctuations, staying too lean for too long, chronic dieting, inaccurate tracking, low muscle mass, and trying to maintain high output on low calories. I cover the physiological adaptations that happen when energy intake stays low for too long, how stress and recovery play into it, and what you can do to increase your maintenance calories over time. So if you feel stuck eating low calories, afraid of gaining weight, or frustrated with your progress, this episode is a must-listen.Let’s talk about:IntroductionWhy Scale Weight Fluctuations Are Not Fat GainClient Example: Increasing Calories Without Getting FatTrying To Stay Too LeanSigns You’re Too Lean & Under-RecoveredFinding Your Sustainable Body Fat RangeGLP-1s, Rapid Weight Loss & Maintenance IssuesWhy Your Tracking May Be InaccurateLow Muscle Mass & Chronic DietingHigh Output + Low CaloriesAlways Trying To Lose “Just A Little More”How To Increase Maintenance Calories StrategicallyWhy You Shouldn’t Stay In Fat Loss ForeverFollow me on Instagram for more information and education:https://www.instagram.com/jeffhoehn_/?hl=enHow You Can Work With Me?: https://jhhealth.net/workwithme/Coaching application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfE-99wLDZRXlOOY1pWuAmkogdZOm-7ZvN_thbqNWLdNrj5bg/viewformBody Recomp Checklist 2.0: https://chipper-producer-6244.kit.com/26b5c9f94a

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!A lot of people think fat loss means doing more cardio, more volume, and harder workouts. But in today’s episode, I explain why that approach can actually hurt your recovery, performance, and long-term physique progress.I break down the difference between training during a fat loss phase versus outside of it, why building phases are where you should push training the hardest, and how to manage lifting, cardio, recovery, and overall output while dieting. I also go over why many people spin their wheels by chronically dieting, how recovery resources change in a deficit, and how to structure training more effectively for body composition goals.So if you’ve ever wondered how hard you should train during a cut, why performance drops in a deficit, or how to preserve muscle while losing fat, this episode is a must-listen.Let’s talk about:IntroductionThe Biggest Fat Loss Training MisconceptionWhy Building Phases Matter MostIncreasing Volume Outside of Fat LossBody Part Specialization PhasesKeeping Intensity High During Building PhasesBuilding Cardiovascular Fitness Outside of Fat LossWhy More Fuel Improves Performance and RecoveryThe Goal of Training During Fat LossWhy You Shouldn’t Increase Volume During a CutThe Best Rep Ranges During Fat LossManaging Cardio During Fat LossWhy Fat Loss Is Not the Time to Push PerformanceHow Low Calories and High Output BackfireFat Loss Is About Doing Enough, Not MoreMaintaining High Output During Fat LossHow Deficit Size Changes Training CapacityWhy Body Fat Levels Matter for RecompHow to Approach Steps During Fat LossKey Takeaways on Training and Fat LossFollow me on Instagram for more information and education:https://www.instagram.com/jeffhoehn_/?hl=enHow You Can Work With Me?: https://jhhealth.net/workwithme/Coaching application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfE-99wLDZRXlOOY1pWuAmkogdZOm-7ZvN_thbqNWLdNrj5bg/viewformBody Recomp Checklist 2.0: https://chipper-producer-6244.kit.com/26b5c9f94a

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!In this episode, I sit down with Brandon to dive deep into some of the most debated topics in evidence-based training: deloads, program structure, muscle maintenance, and whether frequent exercise changes are actually helping or hurting your progress. What starts as a simple Q&A quickly turns into a much bigger conversation about how muscle growth really happens over time and why so many lifters plateau despite training consistently.I break down why constantly switching programs every 4–6 weeks may prevent long-term hypertrophy, how neurological vs morphological adaptations actually work, and why true muscle growth requires longer periods of consistent overload than most people realize. Brandon adds his coaching perspective throughout, especially around how these concepts show up in real-world client programming, recovery management, and the balance between structure and flexibility in training. We also discuss cardio and lifting interference, common dieting mistakes that stall fat loss, how tracking errors quietly destroy progress, and whether you can maintain muscle without pushing progressive overload year-round.If you’ve ever felt stuck despite training hard, constantly changed programs hoping for better results, or questioned whether you’re overdoing or underdoing recovery, this episode will give you a much clearer framework from both a coach and applied practitioner perspective.Let’s talk about:Maintenance Training, Volume & Progressive OverloadWhy Intensity Matters More Than Volume in MaintenanceProgressive Overload During Maintenance PhasesTraining Harder With Less VolumeWhy Maintenance Training Can Still Improve PerformanceThe Real Meaning of “Training Intensity” for Muscle RetentionWhy Most People Misunderstand Maintenance Calories for TrainingProgram Switching Every 4–6 Weeks ProblemNeurological vs Hypertrophy Adaptations ExplainedWhy Early Strength Gains Aren’t Muscle GrowthThe Timeline of Real Muscle GrowthWhy Constant Program Changes Limit HypertrophyThe “Forever Beginner Gains” ProblemWhy Long-Term Program Stability MattersCoaching Perspective on 12–16 Week BlocksWhy Some People Never Look Like They LiftIllusion of Progress in Group Coaching ProgramsWhy Exercise Variety Can Stall ProgressThe Importance of Mastery in Lifts18:35 When Exercise Changes Actually Make SenseDeloads, Recovery Models & AutoregulationWhy Scheduled Deloads May Not Be NecessaryFatigue Management in Real TimeAutoregulation vs Fixed Recovery WeeksWhy Too Many Deloads Can Slow ProgressWhen a Deload Actually Is NeededReal Coaching Approach to Recovery ManagementFollow me on Instagram for more information and education:https://www.instagram.com/jeffhoehn_/?hl=enHow You Can Work With Me?: https://jhhealth.net/workwithme/Coaching application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfE-99wLDZRXlOOY1pWuAmkogdZOm-7ZvN_thbqNWLdNrj5bg/viewformBody Recomp Checklist 2.0: https://chipper-producer-6244.kit.com/26b5c9f94a

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!A new study on body recomposition sparked a big conversation around maintenance calories, fat loss, and muscle gain. So in today’s episode, I break down what the study actually showed, where the conclusions may be getting overhyped, and why context matters when talking about body recomp.I also explain why estimated maintenance calories are rarely exact, how body recomp actually works in the real world, why training intensity matters so much, and why people can still lose fat while their scale weight barely changes. So if you’ve been trying to build muscle while losing fat, feel stuck obsessing over calorie numbers, or want a more practical understanding of body recomp, this episode is a must-listen.Let’s talk about:IntroductionNew studyTakeaway from the studyHow Researchers Estimated Maintenance CaloriesWhy Body Weight Staying Stable Can Still Mean Fat LossHow Deficit Size Impacts Fat LossBuilding Muscle in a DeficitNutrition PeriodizationYou Cannot Recomp ForeverWhy Exercise Creates Unique Body Comp EffectsOverfocusing on CaloriesFollow me on Instagram for more information and education:https://www.instagram.com/jeffhoehn_/?hl=enHow You Can Work With Me?: https://jhhealth.net/workwithme/Coaching application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfE-99wLDZRXlOOY1pWuAmkogdZOm-7ZvN_thbqNWLdNrj5bg/viewformBody Recomp Checklist 2.0: https://chipper-producer-6244.kit.com/26b5c9f94a

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!A lot of people spend years trying to find the “perfect” calorie target and then stay there forever. The problem is your body adapts over time, and what works in one phase of the year may stop working in another.In this episode, I break down My Case For Periodizing Your Nutrition. I also dive into metabolic adaptation, stress load, body recomp, muscle growth, fat loss phases, carb intake, and how to know when it’s time to push calories up or pull them back.If fat loss has stalled, your energy is low, or you feel stuck trying to maintain progress year round, this episode is a must-listen.Let’s talk about:00:28 Introduction01:25 Why Eating the Same Calories All Year May Not Work02:10 Nutrition Periodization03:44 Metabolic Adaptation in a Deficit06:18 Surplus09:30 Why Nutrition Periodization Helps Manage Stress12:02 Why Muscle and Bone Need Fuel16:09 Performance and recovery18:48 Stressful periods20:18 Why The Body Needs Both Building and Breakdown Phases27:12 How Long Someone Should Stay in One PhaseFollow me on Instagram for more information and education:https://www.instagram.com/jeffhoehn_/?hl=enHow You Can Work With Me?: https://jhhealth.net/workwithme/Coaching application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfE-99wLDZRXlOOY1pWuAmkogdZOm-7ZvN_thbqNWLdNrj5bg/viewformBody Recomp Checklist 2.0: https://chipper-producer-6244.kit.com/26b5c9f94a

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!In this episode, I sit down with coach Bruno Araujo Silva, a coach based in Belgium, to break down a real client case study and walk through Body Comp 101: How To Actually Improve Body CompositionWe also dive into why biofeedback matters more than exact calorie numbers, how body fat percentage changes the strategy, and why most people stay stuck in endless bulk-and-cut cycles. If you coach clients, are trying to improve your own body composition, or want a more sustainable approach to fat loss and muscle building, this episode is a must-listen.Let’s talk about:Introduction to Bruno ArroyoWhy Body Fat Percentage Changes the Calorie Increase StrategyHow Long Someone Can Stay in a DeficitRate of lossBiofeedbackClient’s weight lossWhen to Transition Out of a Fat Loss PhaseCalories During a Maintenance/Building PhaseProtein & CaloriesFear of carbsTraining structure during building phaseWhat To Do If Weight Gain Happens Too FastMaintenance phaseWho Actually Needs a SurplusHow Long Fat Loss Phases Should LastWhy Hard Training + Low Calories BackfiresResourcesFollow me on Instagram for more information and education:https://www.instagram.com/jeffhoehn_/?hl=enHow You Can Work With Me?: https://jhhealth.net/workwithme/Coaching application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfE-99wLDZRXlOOY1pWuAmkogdZOm-7ZvN_thbqNWLdNrj5bg/viewformBody Recomp Checklist 2.0: https://chipper-producer-6244.kit.com/26b5c9f94a

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!Most people are trying to do the right things, but they are applying them at the wrong time. So in this solo episode, I deep dive into the 5 Most Common High Stress Load AvatarsI break down the most common high stress load avatars I see and how they impact fat loss, muscle gain, and overall health. I walk through the different types of stress your body is dealing with, the signs your system is overwhelmed, and how to adjust training, nutrition, and lifestyle based on your situation.If progress has felt harder than it should or things have stopped working, this episode will help you understand what is actually going on and what to change.Let’s talk about:IntroductionWhy Stress Load Matters7 Types of Stress on the BodySigns Your Stress Load Is Too High5 Stress Avatars#1 Busy / High-Stress Lifestyle#2 High Training Output#3 Higher Body Fat Levels#4 Lean / Very Low Body Fat#5 Yo-Yo / Chronic DieterHow to Actually Apply ThisFollow me on Instagram for more information and education:https://www.instagram.com/jeffhoehn_/?hl=enHow You Can Work With Me?: https://jhhealth.net/workwithme/Coaching application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfE-99wLDZRXlOOY1pWuAmkogdZOm-7ZvN_thbqNWLdNrj5bg/viewformBody Recomp Checklist 2.0: https://chipper-producer-6244.kit.com/26b5c9f94a

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!This episode is a Q&A episode where I go through a bunch of questions I’ve been getting from clients and listeners… Hyrox Training, Zone 2 Cardio, Fats in a Deficit, Calorie Cycling, and moreI break down Hyrox and how it fits into your goals, reverse dieting and why you don’t need to overthink small calorie changes, and what a healthy resting heart rate actually looks like. I also get into cardio structure, fats in a deficit, low carb days during a build, and how to think about calorie and carb cycling without overcomplicating things.If you’re trying to improve body composition, structure your training better, or just want a clearer way to think about fat loss and performance, this episode will give you a lot to work with.Let’s talk about:IntroductionHyroxReverse dietingHealthy resting heart rateFats in deficitLow carb day in a building phaseCarb and calorie cyclingFat loss phases, maintenance, and body fat rangesFollow me on Instagram for more information and education:https://www.instagram.com/jeffhoehn_/?hl=enHow You Can Work With Me?: https://jhhealth.net/workwithme/Coaching application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfE-99wLDZRXlOOY1pWuAmkogdZOm-7ZvN_thbqNWLdNrj5bg/viewformBody Recomp Checklist 2.0: https://chipper-producer-6244.kit.com/26b5c9f94a

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!This episode is a collab episode with  with Brandon DeCruz, and you can also find this one over on his podcast, Chasing Clarity. Brandon is a long-time coach with a full roster of clients, strong research background, and someone who stays deep in the education side of this space. We talk about Fat Loss Habits, Hunger, Optimal Body Fat Range and much moreWe get into training and lifestyle updates, the phases we are both currently in, and how cognitive load can impact performance in the gym. We also break down body fat ranges, how to approach building phases, and the habits that actually set you up for a successful fat loss phase. On top of that, we cover hunger, eating behavior, and what is really going on with scale weight fluctuations.If you want to clean up your approach to training, fat loss, and overall structure without overcomplicating things, this episode is for you!Let’s talk about:IntroductionBrandon’s podcastJeff’s training & lifestyle updateSleepBrandon’s current phaseMental fatigueBody fatFat loss habitsHungerKevin Hall’s studyNon-training health routinesSensory deprivation tankFactors that influence scale weight fluctuationsTraining loads in new phaseOvertrainingWhere to find BrandonFollow me on Instagram for more information and education:https://www.instagram.com/jeffhoehn_/?hl=enHow You Can Work With Me?: https://jhhealth.net/workwithme/Coaching application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfE-99wLDZRXlOOY1pWuAmkogdZOm-7ZvN_thbqNWLdNrj5bg/viewform

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!In this solo episode, I deep dived into the 7 Reasons You’re Working Hard But Not Seeing Change In Your Body CompI walk through the most common reasons I see with clients who are putting in the work but not seeing results. From training intensity and poor programming to nutrition mistakes, stress, sleep, and even daily movement, these are the gaps that tend to hold people back. The goal here is to give you a checklist so you can figure out what needs to be dialed in.If progress has stalled and nothing seems to be working, this episode will help you take a step back and actually troubleshoot what is missing so you can start seeing change again.Let’s talk about:Introduction7 reasons you’re not seeing resultsNot creating enough stimulus for muscle growthPoor execution & lack of intensityToo much randomness in trainingPoor programming and exercise selectionOver-focusing on caloriesCircadian rhythmHigh stress loadLow movement outside the gymWeak conditioning baseBiofeedbackFollow me on Instagram for more information and education:https://www.instagram.com/jeffhoehn_/?hl=enHow You Can Work With Me?: https://jhhealth.net/workwithme/Coaching application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfE-99wLDZRXlOOY1pWuAmkogdZOm-7ZvN_thbqNWLdNrj5bg/viewform

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!In today’s episode, I have Bryan Boorstein and Jordan Lips back on for another roundtable to talk about Warm Up Sets, Exercise Selection, Rep Ranges, Cardio Recovery and moreWe got into parenting and how that’s shifted priorities, training adjustments with real life constraints, and a deep dive into exercise selection, home gym setups, and rep ranges. Plus, a discussion about warming up, metabolic phases, cardio metrics, and what actually matters versus what people tend to overcomplicate.If you’re trying to balance training with real life, figure out what actually moves the needle, and cut through some of the noise around programming and cardio, this episode is a must listen.Let’s talk about:IntroductionUpdate on Jordan LipsWork adjustmentsSleep and recoveryJordan’s trainingBrian Borstein’s equipment limitations in home gymsSingle Leg Training BenefitsBulgarian Split Squats (Smith Machine Focus)Calf Training ChallengesRep Ranges PreferenceWarming upCardio vs High Rep Training OverlapMetabolic PhasesCardio Recovery MetricCardio Programming & IntervalsBrian & Jordan’s cardioNutritionWhere to find Brian and JordanFollow me on Instagram for more information and education:https://www.instagram.com/jeffhoehn_/?hl=enHow You Can Work With Me?: https://jhhealth.net/workwithme/Coaching application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfE-99wLDZRXlOOY1pWuAmkogdZOm-7ZvN_thbqNWLdNrj5bg/viewform

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!In this solo episode, I talk about If You’re Above These Body Fat Ranges You Don’t Need A Surplus To Build Muscle or “Reset” Your MetabolismI break down why that approach usually backfires, what actually happens to your body when you keep pushing calories up, and how this can impact your health, performance, and body composition over time. I also go through the most common beliefs I hear from clients and explain what’s really going on behind the scenes.If fat loss has felt confusing or you feel stuck despite trying to “eat more,” this episode will help you understand what to focus on instead and how to move forward with a smarter plan!Let’s talk about:IntroductionWhy You Don’t Need a Surplus at Higher Body FatHormones and Fat DistributionCut off thresholdsCommon Belief #1: “I Need to Reverse Diet First”Common Belief #2: “I Need a Surplus to Rebuild Muscle”Common Belief #3: “I Need to Get Calories as High as Possible”Common Belief #4: “My Metabolism is Broken”Common Belief #5: “I Need to Hit X Calories Before Dieting”Why Low Calories FailHealth Risks of High Body Fat and SurplusWhen Increasing Calories DOES Make SenseFollow me on Instagram for more information and education:https://www.instagram.com/jeffhoehn_/?hl=enHow You Can Work With Me?: https://jhhealth.net/workwithme/Coaching application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfE-99wLDZRXlOOY1pWuAmkogdZOm-7ZvN_thbqNWLdNrj5bg/viewform

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!In today’s episode, I have Lindsay Parker with me, also known as Lifting Lindsay, a coach who helps women over 40 build muscle, strength, and confidence while balancing life as a mom of four, to talk about Body Comp > Scale Weight, Women and Maint Cals, Thyroid Issues, Postpartum and moreWe get into training during pregnancy, what postpartum recovery actually looks like, and how to know when to push or pull back. Lindsay also breaks down fat loss vs maintenance, why aggressive bulking is often unnecessary, and how to still perform well in a calorie deficit. We also dive into blood work, thyroid health, and the importance of looking at the full picture instead of just macros.If you want a more realistic and sustainable approach to training, nutrition, and long term progress, this episode is a must listen.Let’s talk about:IntroductionLindsay ParkerTransition to Two Kids and Parenting ExperienceBacklash Women Get for Training During PregnancyListening to Your Body + Postpartum Recovery ApproachIron DeficiencyHashimoto’s and Thyroid StoryT3 Fix, Energy & Performance ComebackCurrent Training GoalsAdjusting Training in a DeficitRep RangesTraining to FailureDeloadCuttingDefining “Lean”Women Underestimating Maintenance CaloriesCoaching PhilosophyWhere to find LindsayFollow me on Instagram for more information and education:https://www.instagram.com/jeffhoehn_/?hl=enHow You Can Work With Me?: https://jhhealth.net/workwithme/Coaching application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfE-99wLDZRXlOOY1pWuAmkogdZOm-7ZvN_thbqNWLdNrj5bg/viewform

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!In this solo episode, I deep dive into Strategies To Keep You Leaner, Stronger, and Feeling Good In Your Building PhaseI break down how to approach a building phase so you can actually build muscle without constantly needing to cut again. I go through key strategies around meal timing, training performance, calorie setup, and how to stay lean while pushing progress. I also share what I’m personally doing in my own building phase right now and what’s changed over time.If you’ve ever felt frustrated with gaining weight too quickly or not seeing the physique changes you expected, this episode is for you!Let’s talk about:IntroductionBuilding phasesStrategy #1: Food Timing Around SleepStrategy #2: Don’t Save All Calories for LaterStrategy #3: Fuel Around WorkoutsStrategy #4: Maintenance vs SurplusStrategy #5: Strategic Catabolic PeriodsStrategy #6: Eat Until Satisfied, Not StuffedStrategy #7: Keep Nutrition Quality HighStrategy #8: Keep Protein UpStrategy #9: Keep Doing CardioMonitoring Health Markers + Blood WorkCircadian rhythmMy Personal Building Phase ApproachFollow me on Instagram for more information and education:https://www.instagram.com/jeffhoehn_/?hl=enHow You Can Work With Me?: https://jhhealth.net/workwithme/Coaching application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfE-99wLDZRXlOOY1pWuAmkogdZOm-7ZvN_thbqNWLdNrj5bg/viewform

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!In today’s episode, Garrett Creary joins me to share his full transformation story, What Losing 160+ pounds taught him about health. This one goes way beyond weight loss and gets into what actually happens after the transformation.We get into his experience with gastric bypass, the rapid weight loss that followed, and the long-term consequences that came with it, including hormone issues, gut health challenges, and burnout from lifestyle habits. Garrett also shares how identity, environment, and daily habits played a bigger role than any single diet or protocol.If you want to understand what real, sustainable change looks like and what can go wrong when you skip the deeper work, this episode is a must listen.Let’s talk about:IntroductionGarrett CrearyGetting Into Coaching + Functional HealthObesityInitial Weight Loss AttemptEating Patterns and Extreme Calorie IntakeHunger, Food Noise, and Appetite DysregulationCalorie Awareness and Small ChangesGastric BypassSleep, Stress, and Health DeclineRoot Cause vs Band-Aid (TRT)Current Training + Lifestyle ShiftWhere to Find GarrettFollow me on Instagram for more information and education:https://www.instagram.com/jeffhoehn_/?hl=enHow You Can Work With Me?: https://jhhealth.net/workwithme/Coaching application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfE-99wLDZRXlOOY1pWuAmkogdZOm-7ZvN_thbqNWLdNrj5bg/viewform

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!In this episode, I break down How to Actually Approach Body RecompositionI go into what body recomposition really means, the different ways it can happen, and how energy balance, training, and nutrition all play a role. I also walk through real scenarios so you can understand what to expect based on your starting point. So if you want to improve your body composition and stop guessing what to do next, this episode will is a must listen!Let’s talk about:Introduction3 Types of RecompMuscle growth potentialEnergy BalanceModerate deficitLarge deficitGLP-1Maintenance & SurplusSummaryFollow me on Instagram for more information and education:https://www.instagram.com/jeffhoehn_/?hl=enHow You Can Work With Me?: https://jhhealth.net/workwithme/Coaching application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfE-99wLDZRXlOOY1pWuAmkogdZOm-7ZvN_thbqNWLdNrj5bg/viewform

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!In this episode, I catch up with Dr Eric Helms, a natural bodybuilder, coach with Team 3DMJ, and co-director of a sports research institute in New Zealand, to talk about How to Keep Making Progress During Busy SeasonsHe discussed his recent competitive season, his new leadership role, and how that has changed the way he trains. We get into auto-regulation at a deeper level, how to train effectively with a busy schedule, and what actually matters when progress starts to slow down. He also shares insights on recovery, volume, and how advanced lifters should think about long-term progress.If training has started to feel harder to manage with real life or progress feels slower than it used to, this is a must listen.Let’s talk about:IntroductionUpdate on Dr Eric HelmsRealization After Turning ProCo-Director at Sports Research Institute (AUT)Impact of Stress + Lifestyle on RecoveryADHD, Focus, and Mental LoadTraining Philosophy ShiftEfficient Training MethodsCurrent Volume + Set BreakdownAdvanced Training InsightWhy He Trains Smaller Muscle Groups More Now“Investment Portfolio” View of TrainingCurrent Training VolumeMaximizing Growth Under ConstraintsDr Eric’s Future PlanFollow me on Instagram for more information and education: @jeffhoehn_Body Recomp Checklist 2.0 HEREHow You Can Work With Me?: HERECoaching application: HERE

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!In this episode, I’m breaking down How Long Should A Training Cycle Be For Muscle GrowthI go into how long a training cycle should last, why constantly changing exercises can hold you back, and how to balance consistency with keeping things fresh. I also cover deloads, when they make sense, and how to adjust your program without losing progress.If you’ve ever felt stuck in your training or unsure when to switch things up, this episode will give you a clearer way to approach it.Let’s talk about:IntroductionWhy Training Cycles MatterProblems With Changing Exercises Too OftenWhy Progressive Overload Needs StructurePsychological refreshBalancing Science vs MotivationOptimal length of a training cycleShorter phasesDeload vs No DeloadSigns It’s Time to Change Your ProgramHow Long to Keep ExercisesTakeawaysFollow me on Instagram for more information and education: @jeffhoehn_Body Recomp Checklist 2.0 HEREHow You Can Work With Me?: HERECoaching application: HERE

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!In this episode, I’m joined by Laura Savino, founder of EPN Nutrition and The Practical Athlete, who brings a ton of real-world experience in both performance and body composition to talk about Managing Fat Loss During Performance Training, SIBO and moreWe get into what it actually looks like to balance fat loss while training for something demanding, and why that combination is harder than most people expect. Laura shares her current prep for a multi-day hike, how she’s fueling through a deficit, and what changed once gut issues like SIBO came into play. We also talk through digestion, carb strategies, and the trade-offs that come with pushing performance and body composition at the same time.If you’re trying to juggle fat loss with high levels of activity or performance goals, this is a must listen. It will help you understand what to prioritize, what to adjust, and where most people go wrong so you can make better decisions moving forward.Let’s talk about:Introduction to Lauren SavinoTraining for a multi-day hikeTraining your gut to handle carbsWhy fat loss + performance is trickyCommon digestion issuesLaura’s SIBO + gut issuesWhy scale weight is unreliable during high activityGiving gut a breakHunger management strategies in a deficitLauren’s Training structureSIBOHow to structure a performance deficitWhere to find LauraFollow me on Instagram for more information and education: @jeffhoehn_Body Recomp Checklist 2.0 HEREHow You Can Work With Me?: HERECoaching application: HERE

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!In this solo episode, I break down the Fat Loss Plateau? Here Is The Decision I Use With Clients. If your weight has stalled and you are tempted to immediately cut calories, there are a few things I look at first before making that move.I walk through the exact decision tree I use with coaching clients when fat loss slows down. We cover how to confirm if it is a real plateau, the biggest adherence mistakes that stall progress, and the adjustments I prioritize before dropping calories. I also explain when increasing steps, holding calories steady, or even taking a break from fat loss can be the better move.If your progress has stalled or you want a smarter way to troubleshoot fat loss instead of guessing, this episode will give you a clear framework to follow.Let’s talk about:IntroductionFat loss plateauDetermine if it is actually a plateauWeighing & calorie deficitStress & recoveryMenstrual cycleMeasurementCheck adherenceChoosing an adjustmentsKeeping calories as high as possible during fat lossPros and cons of dropping caloriesTimeline for diet breaks or maintenance phasesFollow me on Instagram for more information and education: @jeffhoehn_Body Recomp Checklist 2.0 HEREHow You Can Work With Me?: HERECoaching application: HERE

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!In this episode, I sit down with Brandon Cruz, a seasoned coach, fitness enthusiast, and host of the Chasing Clarity podcast, with over 20 years of experience in training, nutrition, and metabolic health to discuss about The Benefits of Eating At MaintenanceWe talk through why maintenance is often misunderstood and why spending time there can be one of the most powerful tools for improving body composition including the difference between maintenance calories and maintenance phases, the metabolic and physiological benefits of eating at maintenance, and how this phase can support long-term progress as well as for women.If you want a clearer understanding of how to use maintenance calories to improve performance, recovery, and long-term physique results, this episode is a must listen.Let’s talk about:IntroductionUpdate on Jeff’s trainingVolume cyclingImportance of experimentation in trainingConditioningTotal testosterone levelsHow SHBG affects testosterone availabilityThyroid markersSupplementsBrandon’s trainingEating at maintenanceHormonal and thyroid benefitsPerformance and recoveryUse of maintenance during fat loss phasesMaintenance for women and hormonal healthLevine studyFemale physiology and body fat regulationWhere to find Jeff and BrandonFollow me on Instagram for more information and education: @jeffhoehn_Body Recomp Checklist 2.0 HEREHow You Can Work With Me?: HERECoaching application: HERE

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!In this episode, I break down Cardio For Lifters Over 30 (Benefits, Splits, Progressions)I go through the biggest mistakes lifters make with cardio and how to structure it so it actually improves your training. We talk about progressive overload for cardio, how to track progress, and the difference between interval and steady-state work. I also explain how to periodize cardio during building phases and fat loss phases.Cardio is one of the most underrated tools for lifters, especially after 30. If you’ve avoided it because you thought it would hurt muscle growth, this episode explains why cardio might actually be the thing improving your body composition, recovery, and performance.Let’s talk about:IntroductionWhy lifters over 30 should care about cardioPoor cardiovascular fitness impacts trainingStress resilienceWhy cardio mattersCommon mistakesMetrics to track cardio progressResting heart rate, HRV, and VO2 maxCardio splits for liftersPeriodizing cardio across a yearFollow me on Instagram for more information and education: @jeffhoehn_Body Recomp Checklist 2.0 HEREHow You Can Work With Me?: HERECoaching application: HERE

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!In this solo episode, I deep dive What Causes Cravings + How To Manage Them.Cravings are something almost everyone struggles with, especially during fat loss phases so today I walk you through the three different types of hunger, how hormones like ghrelin and leptin play a role, and the biggest factors that increase cravings. We cover things like low protein intake, poor sleep, high stress load, inconsistent calorie intake, ultra-processed foods, meal timing, and even how dieting itself can increase cravings.If cravings feel like they’re constantly derailing your progress, this episode will help you understand what’s actually driving them.Let’s talk about:IntroductionWhy Cravings Are IndividualCravings VS Hunger3 Types of HungerDrivers of CravingsFix the Inputs to Fix CravingsFollow me on Instagram for more information and education: @jeffhoehn_Body Recomp Checklist 2.0 HEREHow You Can Work With Me?: HERECoaching application: HERE

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!In this episode, I break down How Nutrition And Body Comp Add To Your Stress Load. I walk through how stress impacts body composition, recovery, and performance and why fat loss gets harder when total stress is too high.We go through the eight major stress buckets, with a deeper dive into dieting stress specifically. I cover chronic energy deficiency, poor meal structure, blood sugar volatility, low micronutrients, eating in a sympathetic state, caffeine, alcohol, and body fat extremes, including how each one can quietly slow progress.If you feel like you’re doing everything right but your body composition isn’t moving, this episode will help you figure out why.Let’s talk about:IntroductionStress LoadWhen Total Stress Gets Too High8 Common StressorsSigns Stress Load Is Too HighBiggest Sources of StressStress Is Context DependentFollow me on Instagram for more information and education:  jeffhoehn_FREE 30 Min Strategy Call: HEREBody Recomp Masterclass: HERENutrition Periodization Masterclass: HEREHow You Can Work With Me?: HERECoaching application: HEREBody Recomp Checklist 2.0: https://chipper-producer-6244.kit.com/26b5c9f94a

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!In today’s episode, Dr. Peter Tierney joins me to talk about Resting Heart Rate, Alcohol and HRV/RHR, How to Speed Up Recovery. Dr Peter is a sports scientist and performance coach who has worked in elite rugby, football (soccer), and endurance sport, blending real-world coaching with applied data and research.We dig into recovery, stress load, resting heart rate, HRV, caffeine, alcohol, and what actually moves the needle. We talk about why you need to measure stress before you talk about recovery, how to use individual baselines instead of chasing perfect scores, and why not every “bad” wearable reading is actually a problem.If you want to recover smarter, perform better, and stop overthinking every metric, this is a must listen!Let’s talk about:IntroductionDr. Peter TierneyUse of GPS, Heart Rate, and Wearable Tech in Team SportsOver-Reliance on Data vs ExperienceLoad Monitoring + Stress vs RecoverySHIT Recovery FrameworkCircadian RhythmCaffeine & SleepBuilding Robustness to LoadResting Heart RateWearablesAlcohol’s Impact on RecoveryWhere to Find Dr. Peter TierneyFollow Dr. Peter Tierney: https://www.instagram.com/drpetertierney/?hl=enFollow me on Instagram for more information and education:  jeffhoehn_Body Recomp Checklist 2.0: https://chipper-producer-6244.kit.com/26b5c9f94aHow You Can Work With Me?: HERECoaching application: HERE

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!In this solo episode, I give you an Update On My Health/Fitness/BloodworkI break down how I structure my nutrition without obsessively tracking, what my current training split looks like, and what my labs revealed about stress, recovery, testosterone, thyroid markers, and overall health. I also explain how I interpret blood work patterns instead of fixating on single numbers, and how recovery, sleep, and fueling are playing a bigger role for me right now than simply adding more volume.If you care about long-term performance, body composition, and understanding what your numbers actually mean instead of guessing, this episode will give you a practical framework you can apply to your own training and health.Let’s talk about:IntroductionPerformance building phaseWeekly nutrition staplesSupplementsMuscle growthBlood workTotal testosterone vs free testosteroneSHBGReverse T3 + T3 stress patternRecovery strategiesSleepHS-CRP + creatinine nuanceTraining splitFollow me on Instagram for more information and education: @jeffhoehn_FREE 30 Min Strategy Call: HEREBody Recomp Checklist 2.0 HERENutrition Periodization Masterclass: HEREHow You Can Work With Me?: HERECoaching application: HERE

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!In today’s episode, I sit with Brandon Cruz to deep dive about What Needs To Be Dialed In Before Fat Loss, Under Recovery, Training at Night and moreWe talked through metabolic health markers, fasting insulin, and what actually needs to be in place before starting a fat loss phase. We broke down the volume debate, recovery, soreness, late-night training, and how to take better progress photos. We also covered what separates high-quality supplements from flashy marketing.If you care about building muscle, improving performance, and doing this in a way that supports your long-term health, this episode is for you.Let’s talk about:IntroductionPersonal Training, Nutrition & LifeComprehensive Lab Panels & Metabolic HealthInsulin ResistanceGenetic Lipid MarkersJeff’s Current Training & RoutineNutrition Structure & Fasting WindowSleepVolumeEntering a Fat Loss Phase (Red & Green Flags)Late Night Training & Sleep OptimizationCheck-In Photos & Progress TrackingHow to Recover BetterSupplement QualityWhere to find BrandonFollow me on Instagram for more information and education: @jeffhoehn_FREE 30 Min Strategy Call: HEREBody Recomp Checklist 2.0 HERENutrition Periodization Masterclass: HEREHow You Can Work With Me?: HERECoaching application: HERE

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!In this solo episode, I dive into Finding the Body Fat Range Where You Feel and Perform Your BestI walk through healthy body fat ranges for men and women, the real tradeoffs of getting very lean, and why staying shredded year-round can quietly hurt your recovery, hormones, and performance. We talk about how lifestyle, genetics, and training history all play a role in where you feel best. I also explain why building muscle and periodizing your nutrition is almost always the smarter long-term move.If you’ve ever wondered why you still aren’t happy after losing weight or you’re debating pushing leaner… this episode will help you make a smarter decision.Let’s talk about:IntroductionThe Problem With Chasing the Lowest Scale WeightBody Fat PercentagesGet Into a Healthy Body Fat RangeFertility & Body Fat ExtremesGetting Leaner Comes With TradeoffsHormonal & Metabolic Consequences of Being Too LeanYour Ideal Body Fat Is PersonalBuilding Muscle Improves Your Look at Almost Any Body FatFat Loss Needs to Be Done in PhasesThe Real Long-Term GoalWhat If You Lost Weight and Still Aren’t HappyPsychology & Body DysmorphiaFollow me on Instagram for more information and education: @jeffhoehn_FREE 30 Min Strategy Call: HEREBody Recomp Checklist 2.0 HERENutrition Periodization Masterclass: HEREHow You Can Work With Me?: HERECoaching application: HERE

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!In this episode, I break down my thoughts on How Many Sets For Muscle Growth + What Impacts ThisI talk about how to define volume, why quality matters more than just piling on sets, and what the research says about high vs. low volume. I also explain why recovery, time, and training skill often matter more than chasing an arbitrary number of sets. If you’re over 30 with a busy life, this conversation will help you stop overthinking and start focusing on what actually moves the needle.Let’s talk about:IntroductionVolumeFractional SetsQuality over quantityWhy People Think They Need More VolumeHigh vs Low Volume DebatePump ≠ Muscle GrowthRushing Muscle GrowthRecovery and TimeMaximizing Muscle Growth vs Real LifeWhat Impacts How Much Volume You Can DoFollow me on Instagram for more information and education:  jeffhoehn_FREE 30 Min Strategy Call: HEREBody Recomp Masterclass: HERENutrition Periodization Masterclass: HEREHow You Can Work With Me?: HERECoaching application: HEREBody Recomp Checklist 2.0: https://chipper-producer-6244.kit.com/26b5c9f94a

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!In today’s episode, I have Dr Mike T Nelson with me to talk about Progressive Overload for Cardio, High VS Low Carbs, Human Dynamic Range and more. Dr Mike has years of experience in the fitness industry, is known for his work in HRV and physiologic flexibility, holds certifications in metabolic flexibility and cardio for meatheads, and hosts the Flex Diet Podcast where he interviews top experts in performance physiology.We break down how to apply progressive overload to cardio the same way you would to weight training, why VO2 max impacts hypertrophy more than most people realize, and what the new carbohydrate research actually means. We also talk about metabolic flexibility, fasting strategies, and how stress and recovery determine how well you use carbs. Dr. Mike explains his concept of “human dynamic range” and why the ability to shift gears quickly matters for both performance and health.If you want to build muscle, improve conditioning, and understand how carbs, fasting, and recovery actually fit together, this one’s for you!Let’s talk about:Introduction to Dr Mike T NelsonCardioMetrics trackingMuscle vs CardioHigh VS Low CarbsLifestyle and Metabolic healthFastingHuman dynamic rangeWhere to find Dr MikeDr. Mike’s Newslettter: https://miketnelson.com/ Follow me on Instagram for more information and education:  jeffhoehn_FREE 30 Min Strategy Call: HEREBody Recomp Masterclass: HERENutrition Periodization Masterclass: HEREHow You Can Work With Me?: HERECoaching application: HEREBody Recomp Checklist 2.0: https://chipper-producer-6244.kit.com/26b5c9f94a

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!In this episode, I break down When Carbs Help With Recovery and When They Don’tI walk through how overall stress load impacts recovery first, then explain when adding carbs can genuinely lower stress on the body, like during prolonged dieting, low energy availability, or high training demands. I also cover the other side of it, including metabolic health, insulin resistance, lifestyle stress, and poor sleep, and how simply adding more carbs in those cases may create more problems.This is a very informative episode, so be sure to tune in!Let’s talk about:IntroductionCarbs and recoveryStress load on the bodyCalories still matterWhy carbs are the most variable macronutrientHow carbs lower stress hormonesCarbs before bed in lean dietersHigh training volume / under-fueled for demandTransition into when carbs don’t helpMetabolic syndrome markersFinal takeawayFollow me on Instagram for more information and education: @jeffhoehn_FREE 30 Min Strategy Call: HEREBody Recomp Checklist 2.0 HERENutrition Periodization Masterclass: HEREHow You Can Work With Me?: HERECoaching application: HERE

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!In this episode, I’m diving into 45% of Active Women May Be Underfueled. Here’s the Real FixI talk through the real reasons so many active women feel run-down, struggle with performance, or can’t seem to recover even when calories look okay on paper. We cover how stress, micronutrient gaps, lifestyle load, and poor recovery habits can all play a role. And I share how I coach women through this without defaulting to “just eat more.”This is a very insightful episode, so be sure to tune in!Let’s talk about:IntroductionStudy on 109 womenBeing active increases underfueling riskLow Energy Availability (LEA)Signs you may be underfueled or under too much stressSymptoms to look forWhat to do about itCommon micronutrient gaps in womenFinal takeawaysFollow me on Instagram for more information and education: @jeffhoehn_FREE 30 Min Strategy Call: HEREBody Recomp Checklist 2.0 HERENutrition Periodization Masterclass: HEREHow You Can Work With Me?: HERECoaching application: HERE

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!In this episode, I’m joined once again by Brian Boorstein for a deep dive into Bro Splits, TRT, Tracking Blood Glucose and MoreWe talk about Brian’s return to a bro split and why it’s working for him right now, including how he’s programming around recovery, cardio, and training intensity. He also shares updates on his experience with TRT specifically how it’s impacted his HRV, glucose tracking, and sleep quality. We wrap up with some great insights on fasting, metabolic flexibility, and how to adapt your habits as you get older.If you’re navigating midlife training, performance plateaus, or just want to hear what it looks like to evolve your strategy without losing progress, this one’s a must-listen.Let’s talk about:IntroductionCaffeine habits and individual toleranceLate-night training, circadian rhythm, and recoveryWhy Brian is doing a bro split + structure & volumeRIR & failure training strategyCardioTRT sleep effectsMeal timing, metabolic health, and intermittent fastingFollow me on Instagram for more information and education:  jeffhoehn_FREE 30 Min Strategy Call: HEREBody Recomp Masterclass: HERENutrition Periodization Masterclass: HEREHow You Can Work With Me?: HERECoaching application: HEREBody Recomp Checklist 2.0: https://chipper-producer-6244.kit.com/26b5c9f94a

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!In this solo episode, I’m walking you through Circadian Rhythms 101 for Body Comp, Health and Performance.We’ll cover the basics of how your circadian system works, why things like morning sunlight and consistent sleep-wake times matter, and what actually happens to recovery, performance, and even appetite regulation when this system is out of sync. I also go over the biggest mistakes I see with clients and how to correct them without trying to be perfect.If you’ve been training hard, tracking macros, and still feel off, this episode is for you!Let’s talk about:IntroductionCircadian RhythmsInsulin SensitivityModern Lifestyle DisruptorsRecovery, Muscle Building & Immune Function3 Types of Circadian DysregulationCircadian Rhythm MistakesWhat If You’re a Night Owl?Why Circadian Rhythm Is Your BaselineFollow me on Instagram for more information and education: @jeffhoehn_FREE 30 Min Strategy Call: HEREBody Recomp Checklist 2.0 HERENutrition Periodization Masterclass: HEREHow You Can Work With Me?: HERECoaching application: HERE

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!In this solo episode, I talk about Artificially Low Maintenance Cals + How To Increase Your Maintenance CalsI cover what actually can happen when you’re at maintenance (spoiler: it’s more than just maintaining your weight), and what likely won’t happen no matter how dialed in you think your calories are. I also walk through the top factors that impact your total daily energy expenditure (TDEE), why some people unintentionally under-eat, and what to do if your maintenance calories feel way lower than expected.If you’ve been feeling stuck in your fat loss or muscle-building progress and aren’t sure if you’re really eating enough or too much this episode is a must-listen.Let’s talk about:IntroductionMaintenance caloriesTotal Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE)Artificially Low Maintenance CaloriesSymptoms of Low Maintenance CaloriesRisks of Staying at Low MaintenanceHow to Raise Maintenance CaloriesThe Paradox of Eating MoreLimits of Increasing MaintenanceHow to Actually Find Your MaintenanceFollow me on Instagram for more information and education: @jeffhoehn_FREE 30 Min Strategy Call: HEREBody Recomp Checklist 2.0 HERENutrition Periodization Masterclass: HEREHow You Can Work With Me?: HERECoaching application: HERE

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!In this episode titled “Circadian Rhythms Explained: Light, Food Timing, and Metabolism,” I’m joined by Dr. Alan Flanagan, a postdoctoral research fellow and the founder of Alinea Nutrition. Dr. Alan’s work centers on circadian rhythms and chrono-nutrition, and he’s also a frequent contributor to the Sigma Nutrition podcast.We cover a wide range of practical topics like meal timing, how light exposure affects sleep and metabolism, what recent research says about energy balance, and why your internal clock might be throwing off your fat loss efforts. Alan also breaks down what bright light therapy actually does, how to navigate jet lag smarter, and what changes as we age.If you’ve ever wondered how your body’s rhythms tie into hunger, cravings, and performance… you won’t want to miss this conversationLet’s talk about:IntroductionCircadian rhythm studyMelatonin, Energy Deficit & Meal Timing StudyJet Lag and practical hacksCircadian Rhythm 101Light exposureTotal Daily Energy Expenditure & Meal TimingAppetite Regulation, Hunger & Circadian DisruptionChronotype & AgingBest practicesFinal takeawaysWhere to find Dr AlanAlan Flanagan's Instagram: thenutritionaladvocateAlan Flanagan's Website: https://alineanutrition.com/Follow me on Instagram for more information and education:  jeffhoehn_FREE 30 Min Strategy Call: HEREBody Recomp Masterclass: HERENutrition Periodization Masterclass: HEREHow You Can Work With Me?: HERECoaching application: HEREBody Recomp Checklist 2.0: https://chipper-producer-6244.kit.com/26b5c9f94a