The Absolute Strength Podcast

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, I sit down with Justin King, bodybuilder, trainer, and the guy behind some of the biggest names in the fitness world. We dive into his journey into coaching, how he got started, and what it was like to learn directly under the legendary Charles Poliquin. Plus, Justin shares the story of how he began working with 6x Mr. Olympia Classic Physique cham...

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I discuss one of the most critical conversations in the fitness space—real science vs. bro science and how to tell the difference between true experts and flashy influencers. We explain what evidence-based practice means, why bro science is sometimes right, and how to navigate the ocean of online fitness advice. This is a fun talk, and I...

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, I sit down with CrossFit Games champion and fitness entrepreneur Jason Khalipa. We dive into Jason's current mission: Train, Protect, and Provide. Jason shares how this mindset evolved, what it means to him now, and how other men can apply it in their own lives. We also talk about the impact of his Saturday Men's Club workouts, a weekly gathering t...

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I dive into your questions all about building muscle and optimizing your training. We cover everything from how to peak for a photo shoot, the truth about progressive overload, and whether the mind-muscle connection really matters. We also talk about supplements we've changed our minds about, the role of aerobic conditioning in recovery,...

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I explore how strategically adding cardio and increasing your daily activity can actually improve muscle growth rather than hinder it. We also dive into the supplements that genuinely make a difference, explaining how and when to use them to enhance your results. If you've been skeptical about cardio or unsure which supplements are worth...

In this episode of the Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I dive deep into bodybuilding nutrition—what it really means to eat for aesthetics and how it differs from general healthy eating and even powerlifting nutrition. We break down the core principles that make bodybuilding nutrition unique and the mental discipline required during bulking and cutting phases. Sit back, relax, and enjoy!   Sig...

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, I sit down with Eric Helms and discuss what it takes to continue making progress as an advanced lifter. From better exercise selection and volume distribution to optimizing motivation, Eric shares practical insights grounded in both science and real-world coaching experience. If you have been in the iron game for a minute, this is an episode you wo...

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I discuss exactly how to set up a bodybuilding training program to maximize muscle growth and physique development. We break down the fundamental principles of effective programming, including how to select the best exercises, optimal training splits, how much volume you actually need, and the right way to progress over time. Sit back, re...

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast , I sit down with Josh Settlage, a strength coach who specializes in helping Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu athletes get stronger, faster, and more resilient on the mats. We dive into his approach to strength & conditioning for grapplers, how he balances lifting with mat work, and common mistakes BJJ athletes make. If you're serious about improving both your s...

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast , I dive into one of the biggest muscle-building debates: volume vs. intensity. Should you focus on lifting to failure with fewer sets or do long marathon workouts? We break down the history of both training styles—from Arthur Jones and Dorian Yates to the high-volume methods of Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jay Cutler, and modern science-backed training....

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast , I sit down with Eugene from USA Streetlifting. Streetlifting is a competitive strength sport that blends weighted calisthenics with max-effort lifting. Athletes compete in four movements—pull-up, dip, muscle-up, and squat—each tested for a one-rep max similar to powerlifting. Competitors are divided by sex and body weight, with three attempts per...

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast , Derek and I tackle a loaded Q&A covering everything from avoiding breaking down during meet prep to optimizing caffeine intake on meet day. Sit back, relax, and enjoy! Questions on the show: Hey Kyle, can you and Derek cover gaining strength without burning yourself out and stalling progress? I've done one meet , and I'm roughly four weeks out fro...

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast , I break down everything you need to know for your first powerlifting meet. From deciding to compete and choosing the right meet and federation to understanding the rules, I've got you covered. If you're debating signing up for your first competition, this episode will set you on the right path. Sit back, relax, and enjoy!   Sign up for the newslet...

Although the stereotype has changed, quality nutrition is probably the last thing you associate with powerlifting. For decades, the image of a 300-pound overweight behemoth was the face and body of the sport. Bodybuilders used to even joke during their offseason that they might as well get fat and become powerlifters. However, powerlifting has weight classes, which makes nutrition uniquely importa...

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast , Derek and I discuss the fundamentals of powerlifting technique—how to fine-tune your squat, bench, and deadlift for maximum strength, efficiency, and longevity. We break down common mistakes lifters make, the key technical cues that can make or break your performance, and, above all else, the importance of proper bracing. Sit back, relax, and enjo...

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast , Derek and I discuss how to get strong on the squat, bench press, and deadlift. We cover what powerlifting is, popular training splits, how often you should hit each lift, and the key differences between powerlifting and bodybuilding training. We also dive into common mistakes lifters make, what gear to buy, and the mindset to get strong. So, sit b...

In this episode, I talk about the 8 worst fat loss mistakes to avoid in 2025. Starting a fat-loss journey can be both exhilarating and daunting. There is just no way around it. Fat loss is hard. With a plethora of information available, getting lost in a maze of conflicting advice is easy . But fear not. I've distilled my wisdom and coaching experience into a comprehensive guide to help you avoid...

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I answer fat loss questions from listeners . Sit back, relax, and enjoy!   The questions on the show: I've been in a calorie deficit for months, but my weight won't budge. What am I doing wrong? Do you recommend a specific macro split for fat loss, or is it just about protein and calories? For example, I love carbs. Can I still eat a lot...

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I dive deep into fat loss supplements and drugs. As always, we cut through the hype, separate science from marketing, and break down what actually works. From over-the-counter supplements like caffeine and yohimbine to more advanced compounds like clenbuterol and GLP-1 agonists, we cover the pros, cons, and potential risks of each. Whethe...

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast , Derek and I dive deep into the best way to train for fat loss—without sacrificing strength or muscle. We break down why strength training should be the foundation of any fat loss plan, how to structure your workouts, and the right way to use cardio as a tool (without overdoing it). We also cover common mistakes that can slow your progress, the imp...

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast , Derek and I dive deep into the fundamentals of fat-loss nutrition. We break down what actually matters when it comes to shedding body fat—calories, macros, food choices, and more—while cutting through the noise of fad diets and misinformation. Whether your goal is to get lean for performance, aesthetics, or overall health, we give you practical st...

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast , I'm joined once again by Jim Wendler, author and creator of the popular 5/3/1 program. Making his third appearance on the show, Jim shares his insights on why the fitness industry needs more training guidance tailored to the everyday lifter. We also dive into the idea that your identity in the gym is defined by effort, not just numbers, and discus...

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast , Derek and I dive into one of the biggest nutrition myths out there —the idea that certain foods are "good" or "bad." If you've ever felt guilty about eating eggs, red meat, white bread, or chocolate, this episode is for you. The truth is, no single food will make or break your progress. It all comes down to context, portion control, and your overa...

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I dive into a topic that hits home for so many of us: the truth about why most people aren't reaching their fitness goals. Spoiler alert —it's not because they need more information or the latest program. It's because they need to focus on better execution and consistency. We break down the mindset shifts, practical strategies, and no-non...

In this episode of the Absolute Strength Podcast , Derek and I answer a variety of listener questions. We dive into topics like workout efficiency, balancing intensity and volume, the benefits of saunas and steam rooms, the role of genetics in strength and muscle building, and the recent pushback against evidence-based lifting. Tune in for practical advice, and stay for the endless banter. Sit bac...