Real Talk Nutrition Podcast

Send us Fan MailIf you've worked out for any time frame.... injuries will happen.  Let's discuss recovery protocols to get you back on track and how to keep a routine.  

Send us Fan MailPregnancy changes everything… but that doesn’t mean you stop taking care of your body—it means you start doing it smarter.In this episode, we break down what actually matters when it comes to nutrition, weight training, cardio, and hormones during pregnancy—without the fear, confusion, or outdated advice.We cover:✔ How nutrition needs shift across each trimester ✔ Why “eating for two” is misunderstood (and what to do instead) ✔ Safe and effective weight training during pregnancy ✔ Cardio: what helps vs. what can work against you ✔ Hormonal changes and how they impact energy, recovery, and body composition ✔ Why each trimester is different—and how to adjust accordinglyThis isn’t about doing less… 👉 It’s about doing what’s right for your body and your baby.Whether you’re currently pregnant, planning ahead, or coaching someone who is—this episode gives you a real-world, practical approach to staying strong, healthy, and confident through every stage.🎧 Listen in and learn how to train smart, fuel properly, and adapt as your body changes—without guessing.

Send us Fan MailEpisode Description: You finished the prep. You got lean. You pushed harder than most ever will.Now what?This is where most people lose everything they worked for.In this episode, we break down the post-show (or post-diet) phase—the part nobody talks about enough, but matters the most for long-term results, metabolism, hormones, and sanity.We cover: Why going back to “normal eating” is the fastest way to rebound  The truth about metabolic adaptation (and how to recover from it)  Reverse dieting vs. controlled recovery—what actually works  How to increase calories without gaining unnecessary fat  Managing hunger, cravings, and the mental side post-prep  Training adjustments when calories go back up  How to transition from “stage lean” to “sustainably strong” If you want your results to last—and not feel like you’re starting over every few months—this episode is for you.Because the goal isn’t just getting lean… It’s staying in control after.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, the Real Talk Crew sits down with Joe's wife, Julie Laxton, for a real, behind-the-scenes conversation about what it actually takes to step on a bodybuilding or bikini stage.From the things nobody talks about—mental fatigue, food focus, relationship dynamics, and the pressure of prep—to the details that can make or break your show day, Julie brings both personal experience and coaching insight to the table.This isn’t just about competing… it’s about the discipline, identity shifts, and real-life challenges that come with chasing a high-level physique goal while balancing family, career, and everyday life.If you’ve ever thought about doing a show—or you’re in the middle of prep—this episode will give you a raw, honest look at what to expect and how to do it the right way.

Send us Fan MailMost people don’t struggle because they lack effort. They struggle because they lack structure.In this episode, we break down one of the most overlooked keys to real progress in health, fitness, and life: weekly organization.Results aren’t built in one perfect workout or one clean meal. They are built through small, repeatable actions done consistently every week. When your week has structure—your workouts planned, meals prepared, sleep prioritized, and goals clearly defined—you remove the chaos that usually leads to excuses.We’ll talk about:Why most people fail without a weekly systemHow organization removes decision fatigueThe power of planning workouts, nutrition, and recovery ahead of timeWhy successful people treat their health like an appointment, not an optionThe truth is simple: Clarity creates action. Action creates results.If you want better health, a stronger body, and a clearer mind, it starts with owning your week before the week owns you.This episode will show you how to simplify the process and create momentum that compounds week after week.

Send us Fan MailPodcast Episode DescriptionMost people think weight loss happens in the gym.Train harder. Sweat more. Burn more calories.But the real question is…Does the one hour in the gym matter more — or the other 23 hours of the day?In this episode, we break down where fat loss actually comes from and why many people who train hard still struggle to lose weight. We discuss the role of training, daily habits, nutrition, sleep, stress, and why the lifestyle outside the gym often determines the results inside it.Because the truth is… the gym is important.But what you do the other 23 hours may matter even more.

Send us Fan MailSo You Do Shift Work? Listen In on How to Make It Work.Shift work is brutal on the body.Rotating schedules. Overnight hours. Early mornings. Missed meals. Broken sleep. And yet… thousands of people still expect to perform at a high level in the gym, at work, and at home.In this episode, we break down how to stop fighting your schedule — and start building a strategy around it.We cover:• Why shift work disrupts metabolism, hormones, and recovery • How to structure nutrition when your “morning” is 6PM • The truth about caffeine timing and why most people misuse it • How to train without burning yourself into the ground • Sleep strategies that actually work in the real world • Supplements that can support energy, cortisol balance, and recovery • The mindset shift required to stop using shift work as an excuseThis isn’t about perfection. It’s about precision.If you’re a nurse, first responder, factory worker, lineman, medical professional, law enforcement, or anyone working odd hours — this episode gives you practical, no-excuse systems you can implement immediately.You don’t need a better schedule. You need a better strategy.Listen in and learn how to make shift work… work.

Send us Fan MailBody image isn’t just about how you look in the mirror—it’s about how you think, how you feel, and how you show up in your life.In this episode, we unpack how body image quietly shapes confidence, relationships, motivation, and even the way we approach food, exercise, and health. From social media pressure and comparison culture to past experiences and internal self-talk, body image influences far more than most people realize.We’ll talk honestly about:How body image starts forming early—and why it sticksThe difference between health, fitness, and appearanceWhy chasing “perfect” often leads to burnout, guilt, or self-sabotageHow negative body image can impact mental health, habits, and consistencyWhat actually helps improve body image long-term (and what doesn’t)Most importantly, this isn’t about “loving your body” overnight or pretending insecurities don’t exist. It’s about learning how to respect your body, work with it instead of against it, and shift the focus from punishment to purpose.If you’ve ever:Felt frustrated with your body despite doing “all the right things”Compared yourself to others and felt behindLet how you look determine how you feelStruggled to stay consistent because motivation comes and goesThis conversation is for you.Our goal is to help you walk away with perspective, practical tools, and a healthier relationship with your body—one that supports progress, confidence, and long-term well-being.Take a breath. Press play. Let’s talk about it.

Send us Fan MailIf you’re training hard, eating “right,” and still not seeing results—this episode is for you.In this episode, we break down how nervous system regulation directly impacts fat loss, muscle gain, digestion, recovery, cravings, and long-term health. Most people don’t fail because of lack of discipline—they fail because their body is stuck in survival mode.We’ll explain why doing more often backfires, how chronic stress shuts down fat burning, and what needs to be addressed before adding intensity, restriction, or volume.This episode connects the dots between stress, hormones, metabolism, and sustainable results—and why regulation always comes before transformation.Key Talking Points: • How fight-or-flight blocks fat loss • The nervous system’s role in hunger and cravings • Why recovery is just as important as training • How stress affects digestion and nutrient absorption • Building results through regulation instead of punishmentIf you’ve ever felt stuck, burnt out, or frustrated despite “doing everything right,” this episode will change how you approach health, fitness, and weight loss moving forward.

Send us Fan Mail🎙️ Podcast OverviewJanuary Didn’t Go as Planned… Now It’s February. Now What?January is supposed to be the “fresh start.” New goals. New routines. New momentum.But what if January didn’t go how you planned?Life happened. Motivation dipped. Consistency broke. And now February is here—and you’re wondering if you already “failed” the year.In this episode, we break that mindset.We talk about:Why January struggles are more common than people admitThe danger of all-or-nothing thinking early in the yearHow to reset without starting overWhat actually matters moving into FebruarySimple, realistic actions you can take this week to regain momentumThis isn’t about guilt or hype. It’s about clarity, ownership, and forward progress.Because success isn’t built in perfect months— It’s built in the moments you decide to adjust instead of quit.January is over. February is here. Now the real question is… what are you going to do next?🎧 Listen in and reset with purpose.

Send us Fan MailHighs & Lows of the Fitness JourneyCompeting. Losing weight. Lifting weights. Chasing performance. The fitness journey isn’t linear—and it’s definitely not always pretty.In this episode, we talk honestly about the highs and the lows of pursuing health, fitness, and performance. The wins that feel incredible, the moments that test your discipline, and the seasons where motivation fades but consistency matters most.Whether you’ve competed, dieted, trained for performance, or simply tried to stay healthy long-term, this conversation will hit home.🎧 Listen in.

Send us Fan Mail New food pyramid guidelines have been released, but how much has really changed? In this episode, we break down what’s new, what stayed the same, and why increased protein recommendations don’t change the bigger picture. Most people weren’t following the old guidelines to begin with—and regardless of the pyramid, personal responsibility and calorie balance still matter. 

Send us Fan MailListen in as we chat about stacking the odds in your favor.  Over 90% of people fall off any goals by February.  How do we not become a statistic?  

Send us Fan MailFamily, friends, coworkers etc... Not everyone is going to help and support you.  Everyone has their own timeframes also.  Don't let this stop you.  Listen in as we discuss the main steps you can take to set yourself up for success.   

Send us Fan MailClient success story!!  David Grissom has lost 90lbs in just over 1 year and he's not stopping.  Listen in on how he did it.  It's not a big secrete.  It's something everyone can do if they just want to!!

Send us Fan MailYour results are predicated on your ability to recover from physical activity.  Let's talk about recovery protocol. 

Send us Fan MailThere are so many coaches in the online space now.  Listen in for tips on what to look for when hiring one.

Send us Fan MailLet's build a strategy to thrive and go into big holidays with a plan!!!

Send us Fan MailIs there a perfect routine that everyone should follow?  No!  But listen in as we come up with tips on how to find the right workout split for you!  This industry loves to lump everyone into a one size fits all, but this is just not the case.  

Send us Fan MailThis time of year can set us back for many reasons.  Your immune system can be hit hard at this time.  The last thing we want are giant set backs due to sickness regardless the time of year, but this time really can be hard hitting!  Listen in as we chat about ways to build up your immune system.  

Send us Fan MailIntrinsic and extrinsic motivation.  Let's dig into the differences and dive into how to get the most out of both.  

Send us Fan MailWhat in the world do I need to get for groceries and how do I prepare it?  Anyone ever been stuck at this topic?  So many people struggle at this.  Let's add some clarity to this topic.  Listen in!!!

Send us Fan MailLast week's episode was about how to handle and chart the course for the last part of the year.  This episode paints the picture if you do mess the last part of the year up and "decide" to start over in January.  Hint...... Don't!!! 

Send us Fan MailAverage American gains 5-10lbs OCT-NOV-DEC.....  Let's chat strategies to help.

Send us Fan MailCut, Bulk..... Maintenance.  The part of dieting or heath lifestyle that is drastically overlooked.  It's actually where you'll spend the most time.  

Send us Fan MailAggressive, Moderate, and Long... Be sure to know the expectations and outcomes before you start.  This will help you navigate what success means to you

Send us Fan MailListen in as we chat about GLP1s and what you need to know if on one or considering taking one.  

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, our guest Tiffany, is crushing her health and weight loss goals.  It wasn't all success along the way.  Ups and downs but progress is progress.  Listen in as she tells her story!!!

Send us Fan MailNutrition and workout guidance for the woman..... What to know about "Cycle" timing and how to better prepare and have optimal results 

Send us Fan MailThis supplement has some major controversy about it.  It's also the most studied supplement on the market.  Let's dive into the facts.... 

Send us Fan MailThe good and bad of caffeine!  It's not inherently bad and yet it's not terrible either.  The answer like many things.... it depends on the person and quantities.  Listen in to our 50th episode!!

Send us Fan MailLet's dive into some basics.  The gut is a complicated topic.  So many want to dive deep into this topic but let's start with the basics.  

Send us Fan MailHow many reps should I do?  How much weight?  How long should I work out for?  Let's dive into some basics yet crucial details for results. 

Send us Fan MailDo you have a morning routine?  If you do, great!  If not, lets cover some ideas on why and how to create one!

Send us Fan MailCan you eat after 8pm and lose weight?  Can you eat too much protein?  Does sugar make you fat?  Is fruit going to hinder weight loss?  Listen in and fund out all this and much more!

Send us Fan Mail"One size fits all" is a term coaches use all the time for the state of the industry.  Too many plans claim to "the way."  Let's dive into this thought process and cover this in detail.  The hint..... One size does not fit all!!!

Send us Fan MailThings do not always go as planned.  Truth... they really never go as fully planned.  It's our ability to PIVOT and make better choices when facing not so ideal circumstances.  

Send us Fan MailJen joins the Podcast and tells her story.  Hint.... It's very similar to most stories.  It was hard.  There was a learning curve.  Wanted to quit.  Did it anyways!  

Send us Fan MailKey Talking Points:1. The Problem with Aesthetic-Driven GoalsUnrealistic expectations and comparison trapsShort-term mindsets that lead to crash dieting or overtrainingHow appearance doesn’t always reflect internal health2. What Happens When You Focus on Health FirstImprovements in sleep, hormones, digestion, energy, and strengthMental health benefits and greater long-term consistencyBody composition changes as a byproduct, not the main goal3. Metrics That Matter More Than the MirrorInBody stats (muscle mass, fat %, water balance)Strength, endurance, HRV, and metabolic rateHow you feel, function, and perform daily4. Case Studies or Real-World ExamplesClients who plateaued chasing the scale, but thrived when focusing on habitsAthletes who perform better when eating for fuel, not image5. Action Steps for the ListenerSet process-based goals (eat X meals, hit Y lifts, sleep Z hours)Track health-based metricsBuild routines that prioritize well-being over visual outcome

Send us Fan MailWe know we need to change.  We know what it looks like.  But.... it's hard.  Planning, life, kids, social life.... it all plays a role in our days.  This episode, we talk about how "we" plan ahead and make things happen (especially when life if really busy)

Send us Fan MailJan 1st wasn't that long ago.  How are you coming this year with your goals?  Are you on track?  Have you struggled?  Are you planning on a summer slim down?  We cover a good number of topics in this episode.  Listen in!!!

Send us Fan MailYour success will be determined based on how you look at the changes you'll to make.  You are where you based on your current mindset.  Let's change that!!!

Send us Fan MailAirports, hotels, and restaurants... oh my!!  What in the world do you do if you're wanting to succeed while away from home?  Listen in as we discuss our strategies for travel!

Send us Fan MailStress from jobs.  Stress from kids.  Stress from life.  So many things trigger emotional eating habits that never serve us well long term.  How do we navigate through this and start making better choices?  Listen in!!!

Send us Fan MailWe can't just keep cutting!  It is what it is.  But how do you know when to take that break?  How long do it I do for?  What does it look like?  Listen Up!!!

Send us Fan MailSuch a simple yet complicated thing.... Macros.  How many Carbs do I eat?  How much protein should I get?  Should I just track calories?  Let's shine some light on this topic!  

Send us Fan MailWe opened this episode up to the public!  What works?  Why does it work?  What struggles are people having?  Why do they have success?  Let's get into this!! 

Send us Fan MailBe sure you're following sound advice and science.  We live in the information age, and this can really lead to the most confusion.  What to believe?  In this episode we dive into some of the most common misconceptions.

Send us Fan MailHow to stay on track for the 7 days of the week.  Not just the Monday-Friday.  We're not looking for perfection.  We're looking for consistency.  

Send us Fan MailKids and family can be hard when it comes to meal planning.  Are you all on the same page?  Usually not.  Do you all like the same foods?  Usually not again.  This is how we handle the meal planning "thing"