

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

Jun 22, 2023 • 19min
Solving 6 Common Health Concerns for Men Over 35 #333
If you're a man over 35 looking for a simple, effective and personalized plan to help you look, feel and perform better than you did in your 20s, head to https://muscleintelligence.com/mipapply to learn more about our upcoming programs. Dozens of men each month tell me that, on the back side of 40, they experience decreasing energy, a lack of drive, or a stubborn 10-15 pounds that they "just can't get rid of." While we often believe our problems are unique, after years of working with some of the world's highest performers, I can tell you with certainty: Your problems are NOT unique… And it often takes a small subset of actions to solve your problems, push you in the direction of achieving your goals, and set you on the path to living your greatest life. I recorded today's solocast for you on the six most common problems faced by high-achieving men, and how we address each one in the upcoming Muscle Intelligence Phase One program - a culmination of my own life's work, that I'm so excited to share with our community. Whether you've been training for decades, or you've recently revamped your health and lifestyle habits, I guarantee that these six facets of mental and physical optimization are absolutely necessary for you to achieve the biggest goals in your life. P.S. We just launched our biggest summer giveaway EVER. If you've been wanting to train in person with me in 2023, now's your chance to grab a ticket - on me. Entries are open until Friday, June 30th. Click here to find out how to WIN. P.P.S. If you're serious about high standards and optimization, but you're also busy in business or at home... Our amazing partners at Organifi offer some of the highest quality juice and adaptogenic blend powders, that make meeting your micronutrient needs much easier (and that taste delicious). You can shop their incredible products with 20% off using code MUSCLE. They're also running a promo on my favorite Sunrise to Sunset kit - which includes the full suite of products to optimize your daily energy and support your sleep. When you purchase the Sunrise to Sunset kit, you'll get 30 free packs of their Pure neuro-support product, AND free shipping

Jun 20, 2023 • 8min
Solving the Energy Equation for Men Over 35 #332
If you're a man over 35 looking for a simple, effective and personalized plan to help you look, feel and perform better than you did in your 20s, head to https://muscleintelligence.com/mipapply to learn more about our upcoming programs. If you're a high-performing athlete, executive, or family man over 35 (or all three), you KNOW that your body is the vehicle to living your best life… It's not about making the most money, or even about personal development - it's about the realization that your body will either help you to achieve your goals and live your dreams, OR that it will ultimately hold you back. And the importance of your body's capability comes down to more than muscle building or cardiovascular fitness, or even your ability to move well and sustain it… Instead, it all goes back to energy… Every single decision you make is influenced by how you feel, whether you're conscious of it, or not - it's happening. In today's brief but powerful solocast, I cover what it would take to SOLVE that energy equation - to begin to deconstruct looking, feeling, and performing at a top level every day, and to do it all as well as you did when you were 25 (or even better for some!) This episode is a must-listen for EVERY man over 35 - it's a short time commitment, and it will help you develop goals for your own energy and priorities. Plus, keep an ear open for a couple of sequel episodes coming up, which will dive deeper into the topics I introduce today. Mentioned in this episode: Phase One video series Apply for Muscle Intelligence Coaching Muscle Intelligence Community

Jun 15, 2023 • 1h 12min
How to Increase Your Capacity for Stress with Dr. Erik Korem and Dr. Chris Morris #331
If you're a man over 35 looking for a simple, effective and personalized plan to help you look, feel and perform better than you did in your 20s, head to https://muscleintelligence.com/mipapply to learn more about our upcoming programs. Whether I'm working with professional athletes, high-achieving executives, or determined entrepreneurs, I often look for the small hinges that swing the biggest doors… Over several decades, I've come to the conclusion that it's all about adaptation. The work you put in to build muscle, increase cardiovascular fitness, or lose body fat, is worthless without your ability to acclimate to it… And this is what today's Muscle Intelligence Podcast guests refer to as "adaptive capacity" - the finesse to adapt to more stress with less cost. Dr. Erik Korem and Dr. Chris Morris join me today for an episode that offers an incredibly well-rounded framework to health, performance, and longevity Dr. Erik Korem spent 15+ years working in the NFL and collegiate football as a sports scientist and performance director, and he's also coached a number of Olympic gold medalists. He's fascinated by high performance, and is the Founder and CEO of AIM7 - a new app that is grounded in the science of behavior change, to help anyone with a wearable device take steps toward a more thriving life. Dr. Chris Morris is the Director of Performance Science at the University of Kentucky, where he is responsible for developing and implementing the best practice strategies to reduce injury risk and enhance readiness, performance and recovery for the Wildcats' football team. Dr. Morris is also well versed in the facilitation of performance technology and optimal training resources. You'll learn: The KEY to Using Stress to your Advantage The Real Reason Sleep is SO Important for Muscle Building How ONE Meaningful Conversation Daily Can Boost Mood The Concept of "Mental Fitness" and How to Develop it How to Maintain a Consistent Exercise Routine… for Life Mentioned in this Episode: AIM7 - Click here to start AIM7 for free. Enjoy a 7-day free trial, then use the code AIM7MI23 to get 50% off your first month. PaleoValley - head to paleovalley.com/muscle to get 15% off your first order Muscle Intelligence video series: the 4 Areas of Resilience - Where I share the four biggest challenges facing men over 35.

Jun 12, 2023 • 2h 8min
Reprogramming your Subconscious Beliefs with Britt Lefkoe #330
If you're a man over 35 looking for a simple, effective and personalized plan to help you look, feel and perform better than you did in your 20s, head to https://muscleintelligence.com/mipapply to learn more about our upcoming programs. Today's episode is a special one... Britt Lefkoe joins me for a discussion on beliefs, behavior change, possibility, and SO much more. This episode is a game-changer for personal growth, self development, and valuable insight. With a background in psychology and a deep interest in human behavior, Britt Lefkoe has dedicated her career to helping individuals overcome limiting beliefs and achieve their full potential. Britt has spent almost two decades evolving the work of her father Morty Lefkoe, who developed a neuroscientific approach to shifting limiting beliefs. Through her work, Britt has empowered countless individuals to live more fulfilling and authentic lives, and her impact continues to inspire others to pursue their own paths of growth and self-discovery. In today's episode, you'll learn: A Simple Shift in Perspective to Change your Behavior The #1 Secret to Overcoming Fear and Self-Defeating Beliefs How to Use your Environment as a Positive Influence A Framework for Decision-Making that Aligns with Your Goals The Mindset Switch to Immediately Increase Energy Levels Mentioned in this Episode: brittlefkoe.com - Learn more about Britt Lefkoe's programs and coaching. instagram.com/brittadventures - Connect with Britt Lefkoe on Instagram. nootopia.com/musclegenius - Save 10% on BiOptimizers new brain-boosting Collagenius product. Muscle Intelligence video series: the 4 Areas of Resilience - Where I share the four biggest challenges facing men over 35.

42 snips
Jun 8, 2023 • 45min
The Hero's Journey: Conversation with Ben and Brian Johnson, Heroic Founder #329
If you're a man over 35 looking for a simple, effective and personalized plan to help you look, feel and perform better than you did in your 20s, head to https://muscleintelligence.com/mipapply to learn more about our upcoming programs. I recently had the pleasure of being interviewed by my good friend and mentor, Brian Johnson. Brian is the founder of Heroic, which has been one of my top personal development resources for over 15 years. My interview with Brian contained some valuable insights about self mastery and growth, and he invited me to share it on the Muscle Intelligence Podcast. We discuss my personal journey and the concept of being a radiant exemplar, as well as how to become a positive influence on others and lead to change. Brian has spent years integrating the wisdom of our forefathers with the logic of modern behavioral science, and sharing it with others. His philosophy has been incredibly valuable to my own mission to empower men to first master their physical bodies and mindset, on the path to live an optimized life. If you're someone who aims for personal growth and to be a leader in your community, this episode is one you won't want to miss. You'll learn: A Powerful Framework for Self Mastery How Physical Fitness can Develop your Virtues Why your Standard is SO Important to your Success Three Steps to Cultivate Confidence and Charisma High Impact Habits to be an Effective Leader Mentioned in this episode: The Heroic platform: muscleintelligence.com/heroic Three part video series: the 4 Areas of Resilience - where I share the four biggest challenges facing men over 35. Pre-order the new Heroic book: muscleintelligence.com/heroicbook

Jun 5, 2023 • 1h 10min
The Most Effective TRT Protocols for High Performing Men with Dr. Abraham Morgentaler #328
If you're a man over 35 looking for a simple, effective and personalized plan to help you look, feel and perform better than you did in your 20s, head to https://muscleintelligence.com/mipapply to learn more about our upcoming programs. The medical landscape of testosterone replacement therapy is shrouded in mixed opinions and, much more seriously, in misconceptions… That's why I sought out the man who is widely known and internationally respected as the "Father of Testosterone Therapy," Dr. Abraham Morgentaler. Dr. Abraham Morgentaler is a board-certified urologist, renowned medical researcher, and entrepreneur most recognized for his role in elevating men's health to an emerging clinical specialty of crucial importance. Dr. Morgentaler's clinical and research findings boldly inverted the traditional urological medical community's previous assumptions about testosterone levels. We cover it all in today's episode - from the truth about whether TRT really causes prostate cancer, to the pros and cons of aromatase inhibitors, to the significant differences between free T and total T. If you're a man who prioritizes your family, fitness, and business, this is one episode you will NOT want to miss. You'll learn: The Pros and Cons of Aromatase Inhibitors Differences Between Free T and Total T Levels Debunking the Myths of Testosterone Replacement Therapy How to Properly use hCG and Clomid Treatment The FIRST Intervention for Weight Loss and Hypogonadism Learn more from Dr. Morgentaler: https://drmorgentaler.com/ https://t4leducation.com/ Mentioned in this Episode: Full show notes from today's episode (+ sign up to get future show notes in your inbox!) Water and Wellness - get 10% off Quinton, AquaTru, and Active H2 at waterandwellness.com/muscleintelligence

Jun 1, 2023 • 47min
How to Optimize for Physical Performance #327
If you're a man over 35 looking for a simple, effective and personalized plan to help you look, feel and perform better than you did in your 20s, head to https://muscleintelligence.com/mipapply to learn more about our upcoming programs. One of the biggest mistakes I see my incoming clients make is doing the same type of training day in, day out and thinking they're going to get a different result… And maybe it worked for you once, but does that mean it's going to work forever? No. Here's the reality: you have to learn how to vary the stimulus to your body. Your body needs to be subjected to a diverse number of things if you want to be able to do a diverse number of things. Boosting your physical capacity as you age requires not only strength, but also structural balance, stability, and cardiovascular fitness. I recorded today's episode to teach you the first big lever within my new framework of building resilience and, ultimately, longevity. You'll learn: How to Design the Perfect Workout - Every Time The BIGGEST Training Mistake Most People Make How to Assess and Improve your Physical Capability The Solution to Your Modern Lifestyle's Biggest Threats The Big Differences between Hypertrophy & Strength Training Mentioned in this Episode: Three part video series: the 4 Areas of Resilience - where I share the four biggest challenges facing men over 35. Body part guides Full show notes from today's episode (+ sign up to get future show notes in your inbox!) Interview with Francis Holway Organifi sells my favorite red, green, and gold superfood blends - get 20% off with code MUSCLE at organifi.com/muscle

May 30, 2023 • 1h 19min
Six-Pillar Series – Environment Optimization #326
If you're a man over 35 looking for a simple, effective and personalized plan to help you look, feel and perform better than you did in your 20s, head to https://muscleintelligence.com/mipapply to learn more about our upcoming programs. In this Six-Pillar Series: Environment Optimization episode, I selected some of my favorite conversations about curating your environment and lifestyle to reduce stress, maintain (and improve) cellular health, and cultivate sovereignty in your decision making processes. This episode features Dr. David Perlmutter, Dr. Kyle Gillett, Dr. David Sinclair, and Paul Chek… Plus, a highly requested no-B.S. talk from yours truly. You'll learn: How to Escape the Modern-Day Trap of Mindless Consumerism Why Your Decisions Are Not Under Your Control (& How to Fix it) The #1 Thing Affecting Your Focus & How to Take Back Your Attention A New Lens to Evaluate Your Emotions, Happiness, and Movement How to Optimize Circadian and Cortisol Rhythms for Cellular Health Get the FREE guide with the top tips and tools from this episode at muscleintelligence.com/learn Please support our sponsors: Get 15% off your first order of PaleoValley products at paleovalley.com/muscle Get 10% off Collagenius at nootopia.com/musclegenius

May 18, 2023 • 1h 4min
Water Purification and Reverse Osmosis with Robert Slovak #325
Robert Slovak, an expert in water purification and reverse osmosis, discusses the dangerous chemicals in tap water, the importance of water quality for health, and the historical clash between germ theory and terrain theory in medicine. He also explores the significance of water and the extracellular matrix, as well as the discovery of molecular hydrogen as a potential solution. The podcast offers a discount code for purchasing water purification products.

May 15, 2023 • 1h 38min
How Our Biology Impacts Relationships and Desire with Alison Armstrong #324
If you're a man over 35 looking for a simple, effective and personalized plan to help you look, feel and perform better than you did in your 20s, head to https://muscleintelligence.com/mipapply to learn more about our upcoming programs. The high performers I work with aim to not only optimize their lives around training, nutrition, and business, but also around their relationships. Our personal relationships play a huge role in quality of life, output, and ultimately, success. Today's interview with human behavior and relationship expert Alison Armstrong dives deep into how our biology influences decision making, the hormonal differences that manifest in behavior, and the MOST important things for men and women to be aware of in one another. Alison Armstrong is a sought-after speaker and thought-leader amongst people with the desire to live empowered lives. Her philosophy and approach are referenced and taught by other authors, speakers, business consultants and therapists. Alison's exploration of human behavior began in 1991, with her decision to study men: "To find out how I was bringing out the worst in them. And hopefully, how to bring out the best." Her success in understanding men naturally led to studying women's behavior and making vital connections between the two. As her work has evolved, Alison now illuminates human characteristics that precede and express themselves regardless of gender, age and upbringing. You'll learn: How Human Biology Impacts your Decision Making Personal Development Tools to Strengthen Relationships The Hormonal Differences that Affect Behavior in Men & Women The MOST Important Awareness to have of the Opposite Sex How to Solve Common Relationship Frustrations & Issues Get the full episode guide for FREE at muscleintelligence.com/learn Learn more from Alison Armstrong: https://www.alisonarmstrong.com/ The Queen's Code audiobook LUX Online Course "Why You Can't Trust Men to Tell the Truth" Support our sponsors: Organifi green and red juice powders are a staple in my kitchen, and in my suitcase when I travel. These delicious, whole food drink blends are the perfect way to meet your micronutrient needs. Get 20% off with code MUSCLE at organifi.com/muscle


