

Muscle Intelligence
Ben Pakulski
The Muscle Intelligence Podcast empowers men with the skills, habits, beliefs and processes to lead from the front. After spending more than 25 years in the health and fitness industry, Ben has done the research, coached, worked with or spoken to the best in class, and distilled it down into actionable items for you to take away and implement.
If you're an executive, entrepreneur or high-performer who wants to work smarter, not lose his edge as he ages, or just get the advice of someone who has been in the trenches for the last 25 years, this podcast is for you.
If you're an executive, entrepreneur or high-performer who wants to work smarter, not lose his edge as he ages, or just get the advice of someone who has been in the trenches for the last 25 years, this podcast is for you.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 8, 2022 • 34min
The 14 Reasons Why You're Not Building Muscle #258
"I'm not working hard enough," or "my nutrition is poor" are often the most common reasons I hear men over 35 cite to explain poor results around building muscle. I recorded this solocast because, even though one or both of the above statements may be true, after decades of experience I can tell you that it's almost always something else - and it's probably not what you'd expect... The reason you're not building muscle is more likely to be that you're NOT fit enough in the first place, to actually transform your body. That's what we get into on this episode. You'll learn: The 10 Specific Hormones that Significantly Impact Your Physique The MOST Common Obstacle that Men Over 40 Face 3 BIG (But Simple) Factors to Manage Stress Long-term The ONE Mindset Shift that Makes Goal Achievement Exponentially Easier The #1 Tool to Improve Your Focus and Drive Be a remarkable resource for someone by sharing it with another man over 35 - community makes us stronger, and at Muscle Intelligence, we're all here to lift one another up. Plus, get your FREE copy of the episode guide, with full episode details, actionable tools, and interventions. Access my upcoming webinars here, and our private Muscle Intelligence Community here. Support our sponsors: Get 25% off of pure, organic mushroom powders from Real Mushrooms. Adaptogenic, medicinal mushrooms can help support cognition, recovery, immunity, and energy levels. Head to https://realmushrooms.com/ben to get hooked up! Organifi makes some amazing juiced vegetable, fruit, and adaptogenic blends. I use Green and Red juice daily, and enjoy their Gold blend as often as I can. Gold now comes in a pumpkin spice flavor too! Head to https://organifi.com/muscle and use code MUSCLE for 20% off.
Sep 1, 2022 • 14min
High Impact Summary | Six-Pillar Series: Mindset
Listen to the FULL episode with Matt Beaudreau, Judith Pennington, Bedros Keuilian, Peter Crone, and Ben Pakulski: muscleintelligence.com/257 Get the FREE High Impact Episode Guide: muscleintelligence.com/learn Actionable Resources for Physical Optimization and Personal Mastery Upgrading your physique and accessing your unique path to peak performance are about SO much more than the conventional constraints of "fitness" and "health." In fact, I view mindset as being paramount to both a Lean, Healthy, and Muscular body, as well as a life of greatness. I designed this new monthly series to give YOU the wisdom, tools, and inspiration to truly become the best version of yourself, and to spread the message of transformation and a life well-lived to others. This exclusive Series highlights my Six Pillars of Health: Mindset, Training, Nutrition, Sleep, Environment, & Breath. The first in this new series is on the highly requested topic of Mindset - and the steps to master it... put together in a way you may never have heard it before. You'll learn: • How to Identify and CHANGE your Limiting Patterns • The #1 Indicator of Success in Business, Fitness, and Family • Why You Get Stuck in Your Comfort Zone, and How to Break Out of It • How to Use Awareness to Manage Your Emotions and STOP Reactivity • How to Find Your Purpose and TRUE Individual Fulfillment Plus, get the episode guide for an easy reference of big ideas and insights - feel free to share it with someone else who continuously seeks knowledge for personal growth. Today's Mindset Edition Features: • Matt Beaudreau, a prime example of an independent thinker who is creating a paradigm shift in the spaces of education and parenting. Listen to my recent full-length interview with Matt here. • Judith Pennington, an expert in the combination of neurology and science-backed meditation techniques that allow practitioners to forge a path of lasting personal revolution. Listen to my recent full-length interview with Judith here. • Bedros Keuilian, an epic leader who cultivated an eight-figure business empire on his journey from poverty into self-made entrepreneurship. Listen to my recent full-length interview with Bedros here. • Peter Crone, the "Mind Architect," who has mastered the art of deconstructing self-defeating beliefs and healing the subconscious mind. Listen to my recent full-length interview with Peter here. • And, myself, Ben Pakulski. I share insight into living in your own authenticity, and how to break out of your comfort zone to discover your purpose and live fulfilled. Support our sponsors: BiOptimizers - buy MagBreakthrough and get free HCl, P3OM, AND MassZymes at https://magbreakthrough.com/muscleintelligence Organifi - head to organifi.com/muscle and use code MUSCLE for 20% off of the highest quality organic juice powders
4 snips
Aug 29, 2022 • 54min
Six-Pillar Series: Mindset #257
Actionable Resources for Physical Optimization and Personal Mastery Upgrading your physique and accessing your unique path to peak performance are about SO much more than the conventional constraints of "fitness" and "health." In fact, I view mindset as being paramount to both a Lean, Healthy, and Muscular body, as well as a life of greatness. I designed this new monthly series to give YOU the wisdom, tools, and inspiration to truly become the best version of yourself, and to spread the message of transformation and a life well-lived to others. This exclusive Series highlights my Six Pillars of Health: Mindset, Training, Nutrition, Sleep, Environment, & Breath. The first in this new series is on the highly requested topic of Mindset - and the steps to master it... put together in a way you may never have heard it before. You'll learn: • How to Identify and CHANGE your Limiting Patterns • The #1 Indicator of Success in Business, Fitness, and Family • Why You Get Stuck in Your Comfort Zone, and How to Break Out of It • How to Use Awareness to Manage Your Emotions and STOP Reactivity • How to Find Your Purpose and TRUE Individual Fulfillment Plus, get the episode guide for an easy reference of big ideas and insights - feel free to share it with someone else who continuously seeks knowledge for personal growth. Today's Mindset Edition Features: • Matt Beaudreau, a prime example of an independent thinker who is creating a paradigm shift in the spaces of education and parenting. Listen to my recent full-length interview with Matt here. • Judith Pennington, an expert in the combination of neurology and science-backed meditation techniques that allow practitioners to forge a path of lasting personal revolution. Listen to my recent full-length interview with Judith here. • Bedros Keuilian, an epic leader who cultivated an eight-figure business empire on his journey from poverty into self-made entrepreneurship. Listen to my recent full-length interview with Bedros here. • Peter Crone, the "Mind Architect," who has mastered the art of deconstructing self-defeating beliefs and healing the subconscious mind. Listen to my recent full-length interview with Peter here. • And, myself, Ben Pakulski. I share insight into living in your own authenticity, and how to break out of your comfort zone to discover your purpose and live fulfilled. Support our sponsors: BiOptimizers - buy MagBreakthrough and get free HCl, P3OM, AND MassZymes at https://magbreakthrough.com/muscleintelligence Organifi - head to organifi.com/muscle and use code MUSCLE for 20% off of the highest quality organic juice powders

Aug 25, 2022 • 14min
High Impact Summary | Are You Overtraining? Key Indicators, Solutions, and Metrics for Progression
Listen to the FULL episode with Ben Pakulski: muscleintelligence.com/256 Get the FREE High Impact Episode Guide: muscleintelligence.com/learn Ever feel like you're training consistently and doing all the right things, but not getting the results that you've worked hard for? I see the term "overtraining" thrown around in the fitness community... People believe they're hurting their progress by training too much. Ironically, most people who THINK they are overtraining are actually experiencing a different issue. The good news is, while the problem can be complex, the solution is often incredibly simple. You just need to learn the steps. I recorded today's solocast to give you a framework that will empower you to get MORE out of the training you're already doing, STOP overtraining (even when you add more training to your plan), and hone your programming for maximal progress. You'll learn: The Correct Type of Training (and Why Most People Avoid It). The Major Differences Between Progression for Beginners, Versus Trained Individuals. The Three KEY Things That Significantly Impact Your Recovery. If You're Not Overtraining, Here's What's Actually Happening Instead. How to STOP Stalling Your Progress In the Gym, and Achieve Maximal Gains. Plus, I took the key points from this solocast and listed them in our free episode guide, for easy reference (just pull it up on your phone!). Click here to get your guide! Support our sponsors: BiOptimizers - buy MagBreakthrough and get free HCl, P3OM, AND MassZymes at https://magbreakthrough.com/muscleintelligence Organifi - head to organifi.com/muscle and use code MUSCLE for 20% off of the highest quality organic juice powders

Aug 22, 2022 • 30min
Are You Overtraining? Key Indicators, Solutions, and Metrics for Progression #256
Ever feel like you're training consistently and doing all the right things, but not getting the results that you've worked hard for? I see the term "overtraining" thrown around in the fitness community... People believe they're hurting their progress by training too much. Ironically, most people who THINK they are overtraining are actually experiencing a different issue. The good news is, while the problem can be complex, the solution is often incredibly simple. You just need to learn the steps. I recorded today's solocast to give you a framework that will empower you to get MORE out of the training you're already doing, STOP overtraining (even when you add more training to your plan), and hone your programming for maximal progress. You'll learn: The Correct Type of Training (and Why Most People Avoid It). The Major Differences Between Progression for Beginners, Versus Trained Individuals. The Three KEY Things That Significantly Impact Your Recovery. If You're Not Overtraining, Here's What's Actually Happening Instead. How to STOP Stalling Your Progress In the Gym, and Achieve Maximal Gains. Plus, I took the key points from this solocast and listed them in our free episode guide, for easy reference (just pull it up on your phone!). Click here to get your guide! Support our sponsors: BiOptimizers - buy MagBreakthrough and get free HCl, P3OM, AND MassZymes at https://magbreakthrough.com/muscleintelligence Organifi - head to organifi.com/muscle and use code MUSCLE for 20% off of the highest quality organic juice powders

Aug 18, 2022 • 16min
High Impact Summary: Dr. Dominic D'Agostino | The Ketogenic Protocol for Longevity & Cellular Health
Listen to the FULL episode with Dr. D'Agostino: muscleintelligence.com/255 Get the FREE High Impact Episode Guide: muscleintelligence.com/learn I'm constantly asked about nutrition, more specifically about the ketogenic diet, as a potential solution for fat loss, muscle growth and a host of various illness and ailments. That's why this interview is so timely. Dr. Dominic D'Agostino joins me on the podcast today. We cover all things keto, from longevity protocols to integrative cancer treatment, and a number of interventions for high-performing humans who are consistently looking to optimize their health. As an Associate Professor with tenure at the University of South Florida, Dr. D'Agostino teaches with a focus on such topics as neuropharmacology, medical biochemistry, physiology, and neuroscience. He is also a Research Scientist at the Institute for Human and Machine Cognition (IHMC) to assist with their efforts toward optimizing the safety, health and resilience of the warfighter and astronaut. Dr. D'Agostino's laboratory develops and tests metabolic-based strategies for targeting CNS oxygen toxicity (seizures), epilepsy, neurodegenerative diseases, and cancer. The main focus of his lab over the last 10 years has been understanding the anticonvulsant and neuroprotective mechanism of the ketogenic diet and ketone metabolite supplementation. You'll learn: The GREATEST formula to build mitochondrial resiliency, and combat oxidative stress. The #1 solution for improved energy and longevity. The BEST adjustable ketogenic meal plan, including the KEY vitamins & minerals for a low-carb diet. The BIG difference between ketone salts and ketone ester supplements (hint: it's all about insulin). How a modified ketogenic diet can work in tandem with cancer treatment. Plus... we compiled the key points from this episode into a FREE guide for you - head to muscleintelligence.com/learn to grab yours! Links & Resources from Dr. D'Agostino: Metabolic Health Summit Ketonutrition.org ketonetechnologies.com Support our sponsors: BiOptimizers - buy MagBreakthrough and get free HCl, P3OM, AND MassZymes at https://magbreakthrough.com/muscleintelligence Organifi - head to organifi.com/muscle and use code MUSCLE for 20% off of the highest quality organic juice powders

Aug 15, 2022 • 1h 25min
The Ketogenic Protocol for Longevity & Cellular Health with Dr. Dominic D'Agostino #255
I'm constantly asked about nutrition, more specifically about the ketogenic diet, as a potential solution for fat loss, muscle growth and a host of various illness and ailments. That's why this interview is so timely. Dr. Dominic D'Agostino joins me on the podcast today. We cover all things keto, from longevity protocols to integrative cancer treatment, and a number of interventions for high-performing humans who are consistently looking to optimize their health. As an Associate Professor with tenure at the University of South Florida, Dr. D'Agostino teaches with a focus on such topics as neuropharmacology, medical biochemistry, physiology, and neuroscience. He is also a Research Scientist at the Institute for Human and Machine Cognition (IHMC) to assist with their efforts toward optimizing the safety, health and resilience of the warfighter and astronaut. Dr. D'Agostino's laboratory develops and tests metabolic-based strategies for targeting CNS oxygen toxicity (seizures), epilepsy, neurodegenerative diseases, and cancer. The main focus of his lab over the last 10 years has been understanding the anticonvulsant and neuroprotective mechanism of the ketogenic diet and ketone metabolite supplementation. You'll learn: The GREATEST formula to build mitochondrial resiliency, and combat oxidative stress. The #1 solution for improved energy and longevity. The BEST adjustable ketogenic meal plan, including the KEY vitamins & minerals for a low-carb diet. The BIG difference between ketone salts and ketone ester supplements (hint: it's all about insulin). How a modified ketogenic diet can work in tandem with cancer treatment. Plus... we compiled the key points from this episode into a FREE guide for you - head to muscleintelligence.com/learn to grab yours! Links & Resources from Dr. D'Agostino: Metabolic Health Summit Ketonutrition.org ketonetechnologies.com Support our sponsors: BiOptimizers - buy MagBreakthrough and get free HCl, P3OM, AND MassZymes at https://magbreakthrough.com/muscleintelligence Organifi - head to organifi.com/muscle and use code MUSCLE for 20% off of the highest quality organic juice powders

Aug 12, 2022 • 16min
High Impact Summary: Ido Portal | Movement Mastery and Expanded Consciousness
Listen to the FULL episode with Ido Portal: muscleintelligence.com/254 Get the FREE High Impact Episode Guide: muscleintelligence.com/learn Today's guest takes the lines and limitations of the commonly perceived notions of movement, awareness, and life... then expands, deconstructs, and weaves these concepts into the outer edges of human consciousness. Starting from an early age in Traditional Martial Arts, Ido Portal was obsessed with the physical. At age 15, he learned Afro-Brazilian Capoeira, a practice that sent him on a life-long journey to explore various modalities, and learn and study his deeper connection to Movement. His search to study under experienced 'Movement Teachers' came up unsuccessful, as he could not find anyone who could TRULY represent that title. All the 'Movement Teachers' focused on a specific discipline, but none were actually interested in the bigger picture of movement. So, he worked towards and eventually claimed the title for himself: a Movement Teacher. You'll learn: The most advantageous rules to BREAK within traditional movement systems. The step-by-step path to an intentional movement practice. How to train to improve mindfulness and emotional awareness. How to MASTER you mind and expand your consciousness through your body. Learn more about Ido Portal: https://idoportal.com https://instagram.com/portal.ido https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPCiBMarvDiTx-lknzt934g Support our sponsors: Organifi - head to organifi.com/muscle and use code MUSCLE for 20% off of the highest quality organic juice powders

30 snips
Aug 9, 2022 • 1h 29min
Movement Mastery and Expanded Consciousness with Ido Portal #254
Today's guest takes the lines and limitations of the commonly perceived notions of movement, awareness, and life... then expands, deconstructs, and weaves these concepts into the outer edges of human consciousness. Starting from an early age in Traditional Martial Arts, Ido Portal was obsessed with the physical. At age 15, he learned Afro-Brazilian Capoeira, a practice that sent him on a life-long journey to explore various modalities, and learn and study his deeper connection to Movement. His search to study under experienced 'Movement Teachers' came up unsuccessful, as he could not find anyone who could TRULY represent that title. All the 'Movement Teachers' focused on a specific discipline, but none were actually interested in the bigger picture of movement. So, he worked towards and eventually claimed the title for himself: a Movement Teacher. You'll learn: The most advantageous rules to BREAK within traditional movement systems. The step-by-step path to an intentional movement practice. How to train to improve mindfulness and emotional awareness. How to MASTER you mind and expand your consciousness through your body. Plus, I've taken the key concepts and compiled them into an episode guide for you. Get the full episode guide here. Learn more about Ido Portal: https://idoportal.com https://instagram.com/portal.ido https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPCiBMarvDiTx-lknzt934g Support our sponsors: Organifi - head to organifi.com/muscle and use code MUSCLE for 20% off of the highest quality organic juice powders

6 snips
Jul 29, 2022 • 48min
Train Smarter, Not Harder After 35 with Don Saladino #253
If you're over 35, you've probably noticed that things inside and outside the gym don't always look and feel the same as they did in your 20s. That doesn't make it bad or wrong, it just means we need to be more intentional about the way we train to compensate for difference. On today's episode, I'm excited to feature a well-known fitness expert and someone I'm honored to call a friend. After operating brick & mortar gyms for 15 years, today's guest, Don Saladino, expanded to a global online fitness brand in 2020. He has developed a reputation for training some of the biggest names in Hollywood for the big screen. Ryan Reynolds, Blake Lively, Jake Gyllenhaal, & Hugh Jackman, are among his roster of clients. Don and I cover everything from the perils and triumphs of social media, to the parallels between business and fitness, in this honest, no-holds-barred conversation. (Get the full episode summary here!) You'll learn: How to utilize an ULTRA-effective individualized approach, while adhering to a plan. What SPECIFIC items to change within your training, as you age. The EXACT Tools to make training sustainable AND enjoyable... for life. How to extract and transfer successful business principles into exceptional fitness skills. PLUS - if you don't have time to take notes, but don't want to forget the most important tools mentioned in the conversation, we've got you covered. Click here to get instant access to the High-Impact Episode Guide. More from Don Saladino: donsaladino.com instagram.com/donsaladino Support our sponsors: BiOptimizers - get a free bottle of my favorite digestive enzymes, MassZymes, at masszymes.com/MUSCLEFREE (plus... use code MUSCLE10 for 10% off everything sitewide) BiOptimizers AUGUST Deal (starts August 1st) - buy MagBreakthrough and get free HCl, P3OM, AND MassZymes at magbreakthrough.com/muscleintelligence Organifi - head to organifi.com/muscle and use code MUSCLE for 20% off of the highest quality organic juice powders


