
Muscle Intelligence
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.
Latest episodes

Jan 2, 2023 • 34min
How to Develop Stress Resilience and Strengthen Your Nervous System #289
Muscle Intelligence has opened the doors temporarily for new members ready to start in January 2023. We train Champions. If you’re interested, click here to see if you quality. It seems to be now widely acknowledged by medical doctors and wellness practitioners that stress either contributes to, or is a major traceable root cause, of various ailments and disease. However, while stress is a common problem, the solution tends to be left up to the patient - without much direction or guidance for how to navigate it. Today’s episode is designed to give you control over your stress management, as well as to help you develop tools to build nervous system resiliency, so that you can avoid stress in the first place. Additionally, you’ll learn how to make mental and physiological stressors a POSITIVE force in your life, and change the stress response into something you can easily turn on and off. Pick up the guide to strengthening your nervous system. You’ll learn: The KEY to Avoiding Disease and Optimizing Body Composition The #1 Daily Practice to Manage Stress in Less than Five Minutes The BIGGEST Mistake People Make in Body Transformation Journeys A Toolkit to Assess and Improve Your Stress Response How to Use Stress to Actually BOOST Your Performance Support our Sponsors: Get 20% off Organifi juice and adaptogenic blend powders at https://organifi.com/muscle with code MUSCLE

Dec 29, 2022 • 58min
Best Breathing Practices to Optimize Performance and Recovery #288
Muscle Intelligence has opened the doors temporarily for new members ready to start in January 2023. We train Champions. If you’re interested, click here to see if you quality. Today's podcast is centered around the pillar that I believe holds the key to unlocking new levels of health and performance: the breath. Breathing is a simple, foundational practice that is often overlooked in the world of high performance due to its simplicity. However, with practice, you can master these specific breathing techniques to revolutionize the way you train, recover, and, ultimately, conduct yourself in the world around you. This episode’s featured experts will give you the tools you need to optimize your breath and train your nervous system to perform at a higher level. You'll hear from: Dr. Andrew Huberman, on three deep rest protocols, and how they work at the level of the autonomic nervous system. James Nestor, with the #1 game-changing, and often under-utilized, performance lever. Brian Mackenzie, on the best practices to improve CO2 tolerance for athletic success, brain function and, life optimization. Dr. Jay Wiles, with expert tips on how to calm the nervous system and recover better, so you can consistently perform at a peak state. And myself - I expand on the recent science of, plus my own experiences with, the tools that EVERY high performer should be equipped with. Don't forget your copy of the episode guide with the most important facts and protocols. You'll learn: The VITAL Breath Practices for Optimal Recovery How to Solve for Snoring, Sleep Apnea, Dehydration, and More The Most Efficient Breathing Tools for Athletic Performance Three Protocols that Solve for Lost Sleep and Autonomic Dysregulation How to Improve Your CO2 Tolerance for Better Brain Function

Dec 26, 2022 • 22min
How to Fast for Fat Loss and Longevity #287
Muscle Intelligence has opened the doors temporarily for new members ready to start in January 2023. We train Champions. If you’re interested, click here to see if you quality. Fasting has gained massive amounts of attention in the last several years. With most of the fasting information being both generalized and confusing, I’ve compiled the most useful practices for effective fasting, that my clients and I have found both effective and easy. If optimal body composition and/or peak human health and longevity are among your goals, fasting offers a major upgrade for your wellness program. Today’s episode debunks the myths behind how, when, & why to fast, what fasting is and is NOT, and how to best incorporate fasting into your lifestyle. Pick up the guide on best fasting practices! You’ll learn: The Proven, Most Effective Fasting Practices The Most Common Fasting Mistakes to Avoid The Differences Between Fasting and Time-Restricted Feeding A Simple Framework To Determine your Protein Needs Two CRITICAL Factors of Cellular Aging and Cancer Prevention Support our Sponsors: BiOptimizers - get 10% off their full product line with code MUSCLE10 at https://bioptimizers.com/muscle10

Dec 22, 2022 • 27min
Critical Habits and Supplements to Optimize Cognitive Function #286
Muscle Intelligence has opened the doors temporarily for new members ready to start in January 2023. We train Champions. If you’re interested, click here to see if you quality. Those who have high standards for lifestyle optimization are fully aware that it’s not JUST about what you do in the gym or the food you fuel your body with… Cognitive performance and daily mental acuity are HUGE when it comes to setting your goals and following through. Today’s episode looks at peak brain function and enhanced mental health through two lenses: The exact supplement and wellness protocols that are proven to improve cognitive function; as well as daily reflections and exercises you can utilize to facilitate mindfulness, motivation, and “wins” within your micro-commitments. Pick up the brain optimization supplements guide! You’ll learn: Nine of the MOST Useful Supplements to Improve Brain Function The Five KEY Neurotransmitters to Optimize for Peak Performance Three Top Tools to Guarantee Follow Through on your Fitness and Health Goals The Six Things you MUST Focus on in any Foundational Training Phase The #1 Daily High Performance Habit to Develop Support our sponsors: Organifi 100% organic, glyphosate-free adaptogenic juice powders - get the benefits of juicing without the hassle, mess, and expense! Head to https://organifi.com/muscle to get hooked up with 20% off when you use code MUSCLE!

Dec 19, 2022 • 26min
How to Shift Your Programming for Strength or Hypertrophy Goals #285
I get a lot of client and community questions about programming, and whether training for strength and hypertrophy are synonymous. The short answer is - they’re not… While strength and hypertrophy training have plenty of overlap, the primary goals and signaling of each respective programming model differ. Today’s episode gives you an insight into the exact process I use to program for BOTH strength and hypertrophy training, as well as the levers that I use when tailoring a specific program to a clients’ desired outcome. This episode is a great guide to learn how to work with a body composition coach, or to customize your own program to fit your exact goals. Plus, pick up the guide for better results in half the time.. You’ll learn: The #1 Thing to Change that will Improve Your Results Right Away The KEY Differences between Lifting for Strength or Hypertrophy How to Get Maximum Results from Your Training Program BEST Practices for Working with a Body Composition Coach How to Properly Perform Progressive Overload and Prevent Injuries 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!

5 snips
Dec 15, 2022 • 35min
The Intelligent Training and Lifestyle Optimization Framework #284
If you were to rate yourself in the five most important areas of your life, how many would be 5/5? Many people believe it’s “hard” or unrealistic to perform at their best consistently but the truth is that you don’t have the framework YET. The first step is to change your relationship with the word “hard.” The second step is to set high standards for growth AND accept criticism. The third step is finding comfort within the discomfort - and today’s episode gives you the tools to do just that. I recorded today’s solocast to help men step into their greatness - to begin the conversation around what it looks like to be grateful for what you have, but to also continually aspire for more; to be honest about how you’re identifying with your life, and to give you the tactics to switch from a victim mindset, to one of empowerment. Pick up the guide for daily reminders of this episode’s action items, top protocols, and reflective practices. You’ll learn: What you Need to Perform at Your Best Consistently The Five Pillars to Include in Every Successful Training Program The MOST Important Component to Build into Your Plan Simple Lifestyle Tips that have an Immediate Impact on Your Health What Every High Performer Should Optimize For 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!

Dec 12, 2022 • 28min
How to Immediately Optimize Your Upper Body Training #283
Today’s episode takes a deep dive into the best upper body training techniques - to help you break through the barriers that slow muscle growth and leave you prone to injury. You’ll get my proven tools for foundational strength, as well as my specific protocol for hypertrophy. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to maximize muscle growth, as well as train for longevity. Click here to pick up the guide for my top upper body building tips! You’ll learn: The Critical Steps to Optimize ALL Upper Body Training The Key Indicator for Increasing Weight The #1 Bench Press Framework for Maximum Contraction How to Prevent Upper Body Injuries and Plateaus The Best Breathing Practice to Maximize Contractile Force Support our Sponsors: Save 10% with code MUSCLE10 on ALL of my favorite BiOptimizers products to improve digestion and daily health at https://bioptimizers.com/muscle10 - Some of my favorites are MassZymes proteolytic enzymes (abosrb more protein!), MagBreakthrough: the best magnesium supplement on the planet to fight stress and improve sleep, and powerful P3OM proteolytic probiotics.

Dec 8, 2022 • 25min
Timeless Principles for Rapid Body Transformation #282
When approaching a body transformation, one of the most common mistakes people make is trying to skip ahead to the more nuanced layers of training, nutrition, and lifestyle. These are the fine-tuning elements that, without mastering a few simple things first, are almost completely irrelevant. Today’s episode outlines the top three essential levers for transformation that you MUST master, before getting into the finer details of ANY physique and life optimization plan. I also cover my tried-and-true framework for achievement, as well as day-to-day nutrition and meal planning. If you’re looking to lose fat and build muscle, or are intent on sustaining a peak level of health, this episode is a must-listen. Pick up the guide for a complete outline of the episode’s strategies. You’ll learn: A Simple Yet Effective Goal-Setting Framework for High-Achievers The All-Too-Common Habits you MUST Cut out of Your Life A High-Impact, Versatile Nutrition Protocol and Meal Building Plan How to Balance Cardio, Weights, and Mobility within Your Training The Top Actions to Totally Transform Your Body in 90 Days Support our Sponsors: Save 10% with code MUSCLE10 on ALL of my favorite BiOptimizers products to improve digestion and daily health at https://bioptimizers.com/muscle10 - Some of my favorites are MassZymes proteolytic enzymes (abosrb more protein!), MagBreakthrough: the best magnesium supplement on the planet to fight stress and improve sleep, and powerful P3OM proteolytic probiotics.

Dec 5, 2022 • 24min
How to Become a Highly Effective Human #281
I’m asked questions regularly from our coaching community about being more effective and efficient with time, training, work - you name it. I define “effective” as performing as close to your peak as possible on a daily basis, and being truly intentional about the way you choose to live your life in each moment. And what I’ve found is that being a highly effective human requires the development of specific skills, habits and processes. After decades of testing AND studying the habits of the world’s most successful people, I’ve compiled a list of the twenty essential practices to help you become a more effective human. I hope you enjoy the episode and take a moment to share it with someone in your life who might find value in it. Effectiveness is a lived trait, rather than a temporary state. Pick up the guide for a daily reminder of these important steps. You’ll learn: The Key to Improved Endurance, Sleep, and Recovery The #1 Predictor of Success in Life Three Traits Every Man Should Pursue How to Develop the Most Important Habit What to Avoid as a Highly Effective Human Support our sponsors: 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.

11 snips
Dec 1, 2022 • 1h 14min
The Dangers of Low Testosterone and How to Optimize Your Levels with Dr. Doreen Saltiel #280
Today’s interview is with Dr. Doreen Saltiel, an outstanding resource in the process and nuance of optimizing testosterone levels. This episode is the ultimate guide on how to balance testosterone with lifestyle protocols, peptide options, and/or hormone replacement therapy. By the end of this interview, you’ll know what your options are for treatment, how hormonal symptoms are implicated within ALL body systems, and the BEST action items for keeping testosterone at an optimal level as you move forward in your life. As both an MD and functional medicine, Dr. Doreen Saltiel has been in her medical practice for almost 40 years, and is a leading expert on hormones. Dr. Saltiel currently practices functional medicine with an emphasis on both male and female hormonal health, as well as preventive cardiology. Dr. Saltiel is also board-certified in Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine, and is a Fellow of both the American College of Cardiology, as well as in Anti-Aging, Metabolic and Functional Medicine. Plus, pick up the guide for an outline of the high-impact tools and action items from this episode. You’ll learn: The Risks and Benefits of Pharmaceuticals and Peptide Testosterone Therapies KEY Steps to Address both Low and High Levels of Stress Hormones The Critical Three-Pronged Physical Connection You Should Know How to Balance Your Testosterone Levels for Optimum Health and Performance The Contributor to Metabolic and Insulin Risk Factors that No One Talks About Learn more from Dr. Saltiel: Wells Pharmacy Support our sponsors: 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.