Iron Summit

Athletes often think bodybuilding is just about looking good, while bodybuilders think athletes only care about performance. In reality, some of the biggest improvements in strength, durability, injury prevention, and long-term performance come from bodybuilding principles. This episode explains how athletes, from wrestlers to football players to CrossFitters, can use bodybuilding without becoming...

Building muscle doesn't have to mean getting soft. In this episode of Iron Summit, we break down how to maximize muscle growth while keeping fat gain to a minimum. From setting the right calorie surplus and dialing in your nutrition to training with progressive overload and knowing when to use mini cuts, we cover the evidence-based strategies that actually work. We also bust common lean bulkin...

Most lifters think back growth is just about doing more rows, but building wide, dense lats comes down to biomechanics. In this episode, we break down the science of back training using N1 principles, covering lat anatomy, vertical vs. horizontal pulling, scapular mechanics, the importance of the lengthened position, and why weighted pull-ups may be the single best exercise for building a bigger b...

Most people think building their dream physique comes down to genetics, motivation, or finding the perfect workout plan. In reality, the biggest difference between those who transform their bodies and those who never do is consistency. In this episode, we break down the real reasons most people fall short of their physique goals—from unrealistic expectations and program hopping to inconsistent nut...

Protein gets all the attention, but fiber may be the nutrient most people are missing. In this episode, we break down what fiber is, why most Americans fall well short of recommended intake, and how it impacts digestion, gut health, satiety, blood sugar control, and long-term health. We also discuss the growing "fiber maxing" trend, where it helps, where it goes too far, and practical wa...

Most lifters spend way too much time chasing muscle-building shortcuts and not enough time focusing on what actually drives growth. In this episode, we break down five of the biggest hypertrophy myths still dominating fitness culture—from biohacking trends, cold plunges, and fasting protocols to the idea that soreness equals progress and that you need heavy weights to build muscle. We dive into th...

In Part 2 of our Leg Growth Masterclass, we answer listener questions and dive deeper into the nuances of lower-body training. From exercise selection and training intensity to recovery and programming considerations, we cover practical strategies to help you build stronger, more muscular legs while avoiding common mistakes that can stall progress. The Iron Summit podcast provides general health a...

Most lifters think leg growth comes down to genetics or just “training hard,” but real lower-body development is much more strategic than that. In this episode, we break down the key principles behind building bigger, stronger legs — from properly distributing volume across quads, hamstrings, adductors, and glutes, to choosing exercises that actually match your structure and biomechanics. We also...

How much protein do you actually need and has the “high-protein everything” trend gone too far? In this episode of Iron Summit, the guys break down the real role protein plays in muscle growth, recovery, body composition, and overall performance. They discuss the difference between hitting your protein goals through quality nutrition versus relying on ultra-processed “protein” snacks, plus practic...

Can you build muscle and get lean while eating mostly protein bars, frozen meals, and “macro-friendly” junk food? In this episode of Iron Summit, the crew breaks down the truth about ultra-processed foods, flexible dieting, and whether hitting your macros is actually enough for long-term performance and health. They dive into the difference between what works “on paper” versus what works in real l...

Short on time but still want results? In this episode, we break down how to train smarter, not longer, using the minimum effective dose. Learn how to maximize workouts with compound lifts, simple programming, and time-saving strategies that fit into a busy schedule. We also cover staying consistent while traveling, the power of accountability, and how nutrition and planning keep you on track. If y...

In this episode of Iron Summit, Ryan and Max break down the most debated pieces of gym equipment, what’s worth your money and what’s overhyped. From home gym setups and dumbbell choices to Smith machines, cables, and resistance bands, they dive into the real-world effectiveness of each tool for building strength and performance. They also touch on pre-workout nutrition, underrated accessories like...

In this episode, Ryan and Max cut through the noise of extreme social media advice and break down what actually matters in fitness, recovery, and even financial decision-making. They dive into some of the most debated tools in the gym, from treadmills and lifting straps to belts, shoes, and resistance bands, highlighting how context drives value. The conversation expands into recovery methods like...

In this episode, Ryan and Max cut through the noise of the supplement industry and break down what’s actually worth your time and what’s a complete waste of money. From BCAAs and greens powders to fat burners and testosterone boosters, they unpack the myths, the marketing, and the truth behind popular products. They also dive into real fitness priorities like building sustainable habits, managing...

In this episode, Ryan and Max break down the 80/20 of getting results in the gym , focusing on the small handful of habits that actually move the needle. They dive into the fundamentals of progressive overload, compound lifts, and proper technique, while cutting through the noise of overcomplicated training and “shiny object” distractions. The conversation covers how to structure your training for...

This episode dives into a full breakdown of the NCAA Wrestling Nationals weekend. The guys unpack the rise of dominant freshmen, the pressure and mental toll of competing on the biggest stage, and the physical grind that defines tournament wrestling. They also reflect on the emotional side of spectating, the continued growth of the sport, evolving rules, and why the off-season is where real separa...

In this episode of the Iron Summit Podcast, we sit down with Cory Gregory to break down the mindset and work ethic behind his success, from coal mines to co-founding Muscle Pharm and building multiple fitness ventures. We dive into training heavy as a natural lifter, nutrition and recovery strategies, and how he balances business, family, and long-term vision. Cory also shares lessons on authentic...

In this episode, we sit down with Justin Gaethje, one of the most electrifying fighters in MMA history. Justin shares insights into his training camp, the mental side of conditioning, and how he prepares for high-stakes fights. Including his upcoming matchup with Ilya. He dives into his wrestling roots, transition into MMA, and the mindset required to overcome setbacks and stay motivated at the hi...

This is a bonus podcast from Ryan going on the Let's Talk Wrestling Podcast with Kelby Bachman. The original podcast can be found here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-talk-wrestling/id1593308646?i=1000749362986 Ryan Deakin is a product of Legacy HS located in Broomfield, CO. He was a 3x state finalist and 2x state champion. He put together one of the best wrestling careers in North...

In this episode, we break down the fundamentals of hypertrophy training and what actually drives muscle growth. From understanding mechanical tension and optimal rep ranges to the roles of nutrition, training intensity, and progressive overload, we explore the key principles behind building muscle effectively. We also discuss why training should be individualized and how to find the rep ranges and...

In this episode, we recap our HYROX race experience, including key lessons in training, nutrition, and mental preparation. We discuss the importance of skill efficiency, consistent inputs, and staying focused on the process over outcomes. The conversation also explores youth sports, resilience, and how patience and purpose drive long-term performance. The Iron Summit podcast provides general healt...

Comfort might feel safe, but it’s quietly holding you back. In this episode, we share lessons from HYROX training and explore why embracing discomfort is essential for growth. We discuss how pushing past fear, choosing hard challenges, and leaning into uncomfortable moments builds resilience, confidence, and the capacity to reach your full potential. The Iron Summit podcast provides general health...

In this episode, we sit down with PK, founder of Fringe Sport, to unpack his journey from startup grit to becoming a leader in the home gym space. We dive into the evolution of strength equipment, how CrossFit disrupted the fitness industry, and what it really takes to innovate without losing sight of affordability. PK shares lessons from building products for real lifters, creating community arou...

In this episode, we sit down with Dustin Myers of Old School Gym to talk meathead lifting, chase-the-pump training, and transitioning from powerlifting to bodybuilding with longevity in mind. We break down conditioning for muscle growth, training elite wrestlers in-season, and what actually transfers to performance. We also cover building a wrestling-first supplement brand and finish with rapid-fi...

This episode is all about building real discipline, the kind that holds up when motivation fades. We break down how discipline is a trainable skill, not a personality trait, and how clear goals, habit stacking, accountability, and positive self-talk create consistency over time. We also cover navigating temptations, setting boundaries, having backup plans, and moving forward without losing standar...