What's the secret to becoming a super communicator? How can you navigate the three layers of conversation? And how is technology changing the way we communicate?

In this episode, I sit down with Charles Duhigg, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author of the bestselling book Super Communicators: How to Unlock the Secret Language of Connection. Charles explains the keys to effective communication and how we can all improve our ability to connect with others, at home or in the office.

In this interview, you'll learn . . .

• The three layers of conversation: practical, emotional, and social
• How to effectively transition between emotional and practical conversations
• The role of storytelling in super communication
• Strategies for adapting your communication style to different situations and people
• How technology is reshaping our communication habits and what it means for personal connections

And more . . .

So, if you want to enhance your communication skills and build stronger connections in both your personal and professional life, click play and join the conversation.

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Timestamps:

(04:02) Why did you choose "Super Communicators" as the title of your book?

(07:30) What skills are essential for becoming a super communicator?

(08:34) Can you explain the three layers of conversation: practical, emotional, and social?

(10:56) What is an effective way to transition from an emotional conversation to a practical one?

(14:14) What advice do you have for better managing our emotions?

(20:47) How does storytelling fit into the framework of super communication?

(25:45) How is technology shaping the way people communicate?

(31:28) Are there specific types of conversations that should be avoided over email?

(35:36) Is it important to adapt to the mood of the conversation?

(36:48) What tips do you have for communicating with new people?

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Mentioned on the Show:

Muscle for Life

Supercommunicators: How to Unlock the Secret Language of Connection

The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do, and How to Change

Triton

Legion Training Quiz

In this episode, I discuss how to improve barbell row strength, strategies for supersetting, my new book release, and lots more.

As always, these questions come directly from my Instagram followers, who take advantage of my weekly Q&As in my stories.

If you have a question you're dying to have answered, make sure you follow me on Instagram (@muscleforlifefitness) and look out for the Q&A posts. Your question might just make it into a podcast episode!

If you like this type of episode, let me know. Send me an email (mike@muscleforlife.com) or direct message me on Instagram. And if you don’t like it, let me know that too or how you think it could be better. ****

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Timestamps:

(4:12) When is the next book coming out?

(06:30) Tips for improving barbell row strength?

(07:35) Is lifting 5 times per week better than 4 for results?

(08:34) Is the deadlift primarily a back or leg exercise?

(10:21) Should cardio be cut out during a clean bulk?

(11:40) Thoughts on mouth taping and jaw exercisers?

(13:00) Is rucking effective for cardio and muscle strength?

(14:32) Are supersets with opposing muscle groups beneficial?

(19:10) Top tips for improving sleep quality?

(26:48) How does the hip thrust complement deadlift performance?

(27:12) Strategies for politely ending gym conversations between sets?

(29:16) Is daily red meat consumption harmful?

(30:12) After a deload week, should I return to heavier weights or maintain?

(30:38) Is the absence of a burning sensation during heavy lifts detrimental to hypertrophy?

(32:05) Is additional cardio necessary if I already log thousands of steps at work?

(32:53) Why recommend bulking before cutting for skinny-fat individuals?

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Mentioned on the Show:

Stronger Than Yesterday

The Shredded Chef

Lunar

Progressive Overload Training

Whey+

Legion Diet Quiz

What’s the secret to building a successful business that lasts? How do you overcome the common challenges that entrepreneurs face? And what steps can you take to ensure your business continues to grow and thrive?

In this episode, I sit down with Adam Schafer, a prominent figure in the fitness industry with more than 15 years of experience. Starting as a personal trainer, Adam co-founded Mind Pump, the #1 rated fitness podcast on Apple with over 2 million downloads per month. Adam delves into the challenges entrepreneurs face and how to turn setbacks into opportunities for growth, offering practical advice on building a thriving business in the competitive world of health and fitness.

In this interview, you’ll learn . . .

• How to reframe business setbacks as opportunities for growth and innovation
• The critical role of networking and relationship-building in accelerating business success
• Why embracing extreme ownership is essential for effective leadership and scaling your business
• Key lessons in hiring and managing teams for sustainable business growth

And more . . .

So, if you want to understand how to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship and build a successful business, click play and join the conversation.

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Timestamps:

(04:41) Is inconsistency in friendships a personal trait or a byproduct of success?

(09:48) Will you ever consider slowing down in your business pursuits?

(12:42) In the future, how will you balance financial achievements with non-financial achievements?

(24:34) How do you evaluate the significance and magnitude of your goals?

(26:24) Can you share more about the new service you launched for fitness professionals?

(40:24) What lessons have you learned from hiring the wrong people in business?

(50:12) How can you transform past mistakes into valuable lessons for future growth?

(59:34) How can you build friendships with successful people even if you don’t feel successful yourself?

(01:13:25) How can surrounding yourself with uplifting individuals lead to greater success and personal growth?

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Mentioned on the Show:

The Little Black Book of Workout Motivation

Phoenix

Legion Training Quiz

Mind Pump Media

Mind Pump Trainers

In this episode, I talk with Martin, who achieved remarkable results with Legion’s body transformation coaching service.

Martin had always been interested in fitness but struggled with gaining weight and building muscle. Running his own business made it challenging to find time for consistent workouts. Years ago, he discovered my book Bigger Leaner Stronger, which introduced him to effective training concepts. While he saw some progress, he felt he could achieve even better results and decided to sign up for Legion coaching.

With his coach's guidance, Martin learned to balance his work schedule with a structured fitness plan. Through this process, he lost 9 pounds, reduced his body fat by 6%, and trimmed 2 inches off his waist, all while increasing his overall strength and muscle mass.

In this podcast, Martin shares valuable insights into staying consistent, the importance of accountability, and navigating challenges. His story highlights how following straightforward, evidence-based advice can lead to impressive results.

Tune in to hear Martin’s story and discover how expert coaching and dedication can transform your body and life.

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Timestamps:

(5:21) What were your before and after results like?

(12:14) How did you discover my work, and what was your situation before that?

(16:05) What key mistakes did the coaching program help you correct?

(21:38) How was your meal plan structured, and what types of foods did it include?

(33:09) Did you incorporate cheat meals into your diet plan?

(38:52) What did your training program look like, and how did it evolve?

(45:37) Can you describe your experience with deadlifting injuries and switching to the hex bar?

(54:07) What challenges did you face during the training process, if any?

(56:45) Which exercises became your favorites during the program?

(01:04:10) Did you use any supplements as part of your routine?

(1:20:15) What are your thoughts on the potential risks associated with fish oil supplements?

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Mentioned on the Show:

Bigger Leaner Stronger

Legion Body Transformation Coaching

Pulse

Legion Diet Quiz

The Actor's Career Compass Podcast

What does it really mean to raise confident and independent kids? How can parents instill strong values while making learning engaging and fun? And what practical steps can you take to prepare your children for a successful future?

In this episode, I chat with Scott Donnell, a serial entrepreneur and expert in family financial education. Scott shares insights from his work with the Gravy Stack app and his book "Value Creation Kid," offering strategies for teaching kids life skills in a way that is both educational and enjoyable.

In this interview, you’ll learn . . .

• How to make learning engaging and fun for kids
• Strategies for teaching kids life skills during your daily routine
• The importance of instilling values and fostering independence
• Practical tips for building confidence and responsibility in children
• How to overcome common obstacles in teaching kids essential skills
• Creative ways to engage kids in learning through games

And more . . .

So, if you’re ready to help your children develop the skills and values that will benefit them throughout their lives, click play and join the conversation.

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Timestamps:

(08:00) How did studying high net worth families help in teaching kids about finances?

(09:33) The concept of "heritage over inheritance”

(10:40) What are the 12 principles and can you share a few that stand out?

(20:34) What is the “home economy” system?

(23:55) What are the 3 E’s?

(29:43) Have you encountered resistance from parents about implementing these principles?

(36:19) Healthy struggles vs. unhealthy struggles

(40:10) What types of healthy struggles should parents consider introducing to their kids?

(46:27) What are your thoughts on the statement "If we model these behaviors, we are a lot of the way there"?

(51:27) What are some of the most important skills we should teach our kids?

(57:27) Why is interdependence, not independence, the goal in parenting?

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Mentioned on the Show:

Value Creation Kid

Dinner Table App

Scott Donnell Instagram

Thinner Leaner Stronger

Triton

Legion Training Quiz

In this episode, I discuss how fit women can fix amenorrhea, whether high-rep sets are good for cardio, the challenges of staying muscular at 40+, and lots more.

As always, these questions come directly from my Instagram followers, who take advantage of my weekly Q&As in my stories.

If you have a question you're dying to have answered, make sure you follow me on Instagram (@muscleforlifefitness) and look out for the Q&A posts. Your question might just make it into a podcast episode!

If you like this type of episode, let me know. Send me an email (mike@muscleforlife.com) or direct message me on Instagram. And if you don’t like it, let me know that too or how you think it could be better.

--- Timestamps:

(03:08) Should you deload based on HRV and resting heart rate changes?

(04:06) Are lighter weights with higher reps and short rest times effective for cardio?

(05:52) How can you resolve amenorrhea?

(10:58) When can we expect an OnlyFans launch?

(15:26) Does maintaining your physique become more challenging with age?

(21:20) Should I adjust the Bigger Leaner Stronger program when starting at age 56?

(25:06) What business mistakes set Legion back?

(29:08) Are diuretic products effective for water retention, or are they all scams?

(31:31) How can you transition off fat burners without gaining weight?

(32:36) What's the best way to minimize carb crashes when bulking with 3 heavy meals?

(34:36) Can two leg sessions per week, focusing on quads and hamstrings, effectively build bigger legs?

--- Mentioned on the Show:

The Little Black Book of Workout Motivation

Bigger Leaner Stronger

Recharge

Legion Diet Quiz

Should pregnant women lift weights? If so, how can they do it safely? How soon after delivery can they start training again? Can strength training improve postpartum recovery?

Dr. Christina Prevett PT, PhD, is the founder of Barbell Mamas and has spent years studying how strength training can benefit pregnant women. Her work challenges many common misconceptions about exercise during and after pregnancy, and she provides evidence-based recommendations for how to use strength training to stay healthier during pregnancy and recover faster after delivery.

In this interview, you'll learn . . .

• Common misconceptions about weightlifting during pregnancy and how to address them
• Recommended modifications for pregnant women who want to keep training
• How resistance training during pregnancy can impact labor, delivery, and postpartum recovery
• Strategies for coaches who are training pregnant athletes
• When and how women can safely return to heavy lifting after giving birth

So, if you want to understand the science behind prenatal strength training and learn how to safely maintain your fitness during pregnancy, click play and join the conversation.

--- Timestamps:

(05:56) Common misconceptions about high-intensity training during pregnancy

(09:06) Benefits of weightlifting during pregnancy

(17:30) Postpartum advantages of high-intensity training

(20:33) How exercise during pregnancy can ease the postpartum period

(22:39) Programming considerations for women during pregnancy

(30:53) Setting the right intensity levels for pregnant women

(33:44) Effective pelvic floor exercises for pregnancy

(39:49) Is there a stigma surrounding pelvic floor strengthening exercises?

(41:35) Activities to avoid during pregnancy

(44:42) How to safely do cardio during pregnancy

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Mentioned on the Show:

The Shredded Chef

Whey+

Legion Diet Quiz The Barbell Mamas

Christina’s Instagram

How are peptides shaping the future of fat loss and fitness? How do they impact weight management and overall health? How do they work, and what are the risks and side effects?

In this episode, I sit down with Sal Di Stefano, renowned fitness coach and co-host of the Mind Pump Podcast, to delve into the world of peptides.

In case you’re not familiar with Sal, he’s a repeat guest on the Muscle for Life podcast and a leading voice in the fitness industry with over a decade of experience as a personal trainer. Having personally used peptides and studied them extensively, Sal offers valuable insights into how these compounds can revolutionize weight loss and improve overall health.

In this interview, you’ll learn . . .

• Why the popularity of peptides has skyrocketed
• The benefits of GLP-1s for weight loss versus calorie-controlled dieting
• How to prevent muscle loss while taking GLP-1s
• The risks of buying unregulated peptides
• Sal's experience with different peptides
• How GLP-1s will lead to more people lifting weights
• How GLP-1s will affect the supplement industry

And more . . .

So, if you want to understand how peptides will change how people lose weight and get fit in the future (for better and worse), click play and join the conversation.

--- Timestamps:

(05:39) Why are peptides becoming more popular?

(08:40) The benefits of GLP-1s for weight loss vs. calorie-controlled dieting

(10:32) How to prevent muscle loss while taking GLP-1s

(15:23) How peptides affect behaviors like drinking, smoking, and gambling, etc.

(16:55) What are peptides exactly?

(20:32) The risks of buying unregulated peptides

(21:42) Sal's experience with different peptides

(26:55) Which peptides has Sal avoided?

(28:58) The potential benefits of micro-dosing peptides

(31:00) How peptides are changing the food and drug industries

(32:20) How GLP-1s will lead to more people lifting weights

(36:40) The rise of anti-catabolic supplements like HMB

(38:02) The importance of eating enough protein while taking GLP-1s

(40:30) The importance of maintaining muscle for health

(44:06) Are GLP-1s a temporary fix or can they produce lasting weight loss?

(01:00:38) How GLP-1s will shape the supplement industry

--- Mentioned on the Show:

Mind Pump Podcast

MAPS Programs

Legion Body Transformation Coaching

Legion Training Quiz

Pulse