
Barbell Shrugged
New episode every Wednesday! Join the Barbell Shrugged crew in conversations about fitness, training, and frequent interviews w/ CrossFit Games athletes!
Latest episodes

Jun 6, 2025 • 59min
Physiology Friday: [Mental Health] A 6 Step Approach Connecting Mind, Body, and Nutrition w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, Travis Mash and Dan Garner
In today’s episode of Barbell Shrugged we cover: A framework for understanding mental health and physiology The relationship between the mind and the body How physiology follows psychology How to turn your thoughts into character traits How come prescriptions and medications can make mental health worse How sleep is the gateway to improving mental health Blood sugar management and how it affects mood Why broad solutions to improve mental health will not work Coaching the person before you coach their mental health issues Supplementation that positively affect mental health The process of creating and excreting dopamine and serotonin The impacts of B6 and Magnesium for mental health To learn more, please go to https://rapidhealthoptimization.com Connect with our guests: Anders Varner on Instagram Doug Larson on Instagram Coach Travis Mash on Instagram Dan Garner on Instagram

Jun 4, 2025 • 46min
Fertility and Men's Reproductive Health w/ Drew Manning, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #801
Dr. Justin Houman is a board-certified urologist and fellowship-trained Men’s Sexual and Reproductive Health specialist whose practice is focused on male fertility, erectile dysfunction, sexual performance, testosterone management, Peyronie’s Disease, vasectomy reversals, and vasectomies. As a minimally-invasive microscopic surgeon, he specializes in microsurgical varicocelectomies, vasectomy reversals, sperm retrievals, penile implants, Peyronie’s disease, and male incontinence. Dr. Houman’s practice is centered on enhancing men’s quality of life through hormone management, improving sexual function, and achieving reproductive goals. Work With Us: Arétē by RAPID Health Optimization Links: Dr. Justin Houman Website Anders Varner on Instagram Doug Larson on Instagram Coach Travis Mash on Instagram

May 30, 2025 • 48min
Physiology Friday: [Constipation] A Five Step System for Perfect Poops w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, Travis Mash and Dan Garner Barbell Shrugged
Dive into the digestive dynamics of constipation with tips that go beyond just fiber. Discover how hydration can be a game changer and why a squatty potty might be your new best friend. Learn about the surprising benefits of coffee and exercise on bowel function. Explore essential insights on natural stool bulkers and the role of magnesium supplements. The hosts spice things up with humorous personal anecdotes while delivering practical advice for optimal gut health.

May 28, 2025 • 59min
FIT2FAT2FIT to Optimal Health w/ Drew Manning, Anders Varner, Doug Larson and Travis Mash #800
Drew Manning, a NY Times Best Selling Author and breath work practitioner, shares his transformative journey of gaining and losing 60 pounds to better empathize with those struggling with weight issues. He discusses the psychological aspects of body image, emotional eating, and the importance of a supportive environment in overcoming food addiction. The conversation highlights the holistic approach to health, blending physical wellness with mental health, and emphasizes the transformative power of coaching relationships in personal growth.

May 23, 2025 • 43min
Physiology Friday: [THYROID] Function, Dysfunction, Brain Chemistry, and Autoimmunity w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, Travis Mash and Dan Garner
Dive into the fascinating world of thyroid health! Learn how this gland impacts weight gain and performance. Discover the intricate connections between the thyroid, hypothalamus, and pituitary gland. Explore the role of gut health and vitamin A on thyroid function. Uncover how birth control can influence thyroid levels and the essence of T3 for muscle growth. Plus, investigate the thyroid's significant role in regulating menstrual cycles and brain chemistry. A deep dive into diagnosis and holistic health awaits!

May 21, 2025 • 53min
Aligning Actions with a Purpose Driven Life w/ Chris Hoppe, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #799
In this engaging dialogue, Chris Hoppe, a behavioral health coach at Rapid Health Optimization, shares his vast experience in guiding individuals through personal transformations. He discusses the importance of aligning actions with a deeper purpose and how fitness can aid in reclaiming identity and inner peace. The conversation also explores the psychological challenges faced by athletes after retirement, the role of community in overcoming addiction, and transformative practices like breathwork that foster emotional resilience and mindfulness.

May 16, 2025 • 55min
Physiology Friday: [LIBIDO] The Biochemistry of Improving Your Sex Drive w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, Travis Mash and Dan Garner
Join nutrition coach Dan Garner as he delves into the fascinating world of libido. Discover the biochemical processes behind erections and how hormones like estrogen and testosterone play pivotal roles in your sex drive. Garner discusses the psychological impact of porn addiction, the effects of sleep deprivation on intimacy, and how lifestyle choices can enhance or hinder libido. Plus, learn about the surprising influences of substances like marijuana and alcohol on sexual desire, offering a holistic approach to improve your sexual health.

May 14, 2025 • 55min
The Truth About GLP-1 Medications w/ Dr. Garrett Butler, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #798
Dr. Garrett Butler, a family physician in rural West Virginia, explores the fascinating world of GLP-1 medications. He discusses their origins linked to the Gila monster and transformative roles in diabetes management and weight loss. The conversation delves into how these medications impact insulin and gut motility while considering individual responses to treatment. Butler also highlights the importance of lifestyle changes alongside medication and addresses the risks associated with GLP-1, emphasizing the need for informed patient-provider conversations.

12 snips
May 9, 2025 • 47min
Physiology Friday: [NUTRITION 101] The Exact Calories, Macros, and Micronutrients to Fuel Performance and Optimize Health w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, Travis Mash and Dan Garner
In this discussion, nutrition coach Dan Garner dives into the science of optimizing health through tailored dietary protocols. He highlights how to calculate total calories based on individual goals, stressing the importance of maintenance calories for body composition. Garner explains the macronutrient breakdown essential for performance, shares tips for meeting protein needs, and emphasizes the often-overlooked impact of micronutrients. He even tackles the balance of whole foods versus supplements, making it clear that nature offers the best nutrition.

14 snips
May 7, 2025 • 49min
Flexible Cardio for People that Hate Cardio w/ Dr. Michael T. Nelson, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #797
Dr. Michael T. Nelson, an expert in conditioning for fat burning and strength, joins Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash to discuss integrating cardio into strength routines. They debunk myths about cardio for lifters and highlight its benefits for recovery and overall performance. The conversation covers optimizing HIIT recovery through heart rate monitoring, the importance of consistent cardio practice, and personal stories that reveal how better cardiovascular fitness can enhance strength and prevent burnout.