Dr. Helms recaps WNBF Worlds and explores motivations of bodybuilders. Dr. Trexler discusses muscle loss during weight loss and the misconceptions surrounding it.

Dr. Mike Israetel, a sports scientist in bodybuilding, discusses the spirit of bodybuilding in this episode. They talk about the highs and lows of a competitor's journey, the personal growth through criticism, the significance of perseverance, and the motivations behind competing. They also touch on the negative effects of using steroids and the potential use of myostatin inhibitors in bodybuilding.

This podcast episode dives into the significance of leucine in muscle protein synthesis and the recent doubts cast on its importance. It explores conflicting outcomes of protein consumption studies and the boundaries of optimal protein strategies. The hosts also discuss the importance of pre-digested information in the fitness space and the desire for optimization in fitness journeys.

Two bodybuilders-turned-scientists share their personal journeys in bodybuilding, exploring motivations, self-discovery, and the fusion of athleticism and art. They discuss the mindset of competitive bodybuilding and powerlifting, as well as overcoming challenges such as excessive training, concussions, and persistent nerve injuries. The podcast also touches on the early years of lifting, bodybuilding preparation, and the meaning found in a wacky sport like bodybuilding.

Exploring the misconceptions around bulking for muscle growth, a recent study reveals surprising results about the impact of different size surpluses on muscle gains. The podcast also delves into the significance of tattoos, congratulates one speaker on turning pro, and discusses the peer review process and study design. Analyzing weight gain protocols, the effects of bulking on muscle growth are examined, along with the importance of identifying problems and finding solutions in training programs.

The podcast explores controversies surrounding the hosts' identities. They discuss the limitations of using BMI as a clinical metric and advocate for considering other factors. The speakers also delve into bodybuilding experiences, challenges of peaking for shows, and the discrepancies between lab mice and humans. They touch upon the importance of advocacy, social change, empathy in weight loss journeys, and the impact of weight loss drugs on appetite.

Dr. Eric Trexler examines the impact of macronutrient changes and body composition on testosterone levels. Topics include the relationship between fat & carbohydrate intake and testosterone, the effects of caloric restriction and adiposity on hormone production, and the misconception that high adiposity impairs muscle growth.

Newly added co-host Eric Trexler discusses exercise energy compensation, the complexities of calories in and calories out, and the future of research in this field. They also talk about the utility of doubly labelled water and the potential negative effects of low energy availability. A light-hearted conversation includes personal anecdotes and perspectives on bodybuilding competitions.

Fresh off his historic performance at USAPL Mega Nationals 2023, Austin Perkins joins Iron Culture to share his story of how in just two short years he exceeded Taylor Atwood’s 2021 record performance which many thought would stand for years to come. Austin Perkins totalled 851kg in the under 75kg raw men’s division, totalling more than the 82.5kg winner, and importantly 12.5kg more than Taylor Atwood’s 2021 record of 838.5kg, which importantly, resulted in Taylor beating Austin by 68.5kg. What’s the story behind Austin’s rise, and is he the new pound for pound king of raw, tested powerlifting? Join us on Iron Culture for the full story! 00:00 Introducing Austin Perkins (a top-tier hunk) to Iron Culture and his dominant performance at USAPL Mega Nats Iron Culture Ep. 241- The End of Iron Culture (As You Know It) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ckvqnB-Ueg 12:18 The younger generation of powerlifters and long-term progression 17:25 Austin’s backstory 25:43 The Austin Perkins story continued  Iron Culture Ep. 82- Becoming A Respected Strength Coach https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5E9hM_jyOLs 44:56 The road to 800kg 59:35 “Ya’ll think you’re close, but you have no idea” - Austin’s comeback from injury and breaking records 1:33:03 The USAPL split and the battle for Worlds 1:42:47 Thanking and showing our respect for Austin Instagram @the75kg https://www.instagram.com/the75kg/?img_index=1 YouTube @Perkthe75kg https://www.youtube.com/@Perkthe75kg  TikTok @the75kg https://www.tiktok.com/@the75kg  Online Coaching https://www.gamedaybarbell.com/online-coaching

The hosts discuss their plans to bring a third person on board as part of an 'iron thrupple' and reflect on recent performances at the USAPL Mega Nationals. They also explore the shift from strength and powerlifting to bodybuilding in social media. Additionally, they touch on engaging the fitness community, finding one's tribe, and the differences between powerlifting and natural bodybuilding.