The Smart Nutrition Made Simple Show with Ben Brown

You’re not failing because you lack discipline. You’re failing because your approach isn’t sustainable.This solo conversation is about one of the biggest mindset traps that keeps people stuck: the all-or-nothing mentality. We talk about why extreme restriction always leads to burnout, how guilt and shame keep you in the yo-yo dieting cycle, and what it really means to live in the gray. I share lessons from my own experience with rigid eating, the patterns I see in clients every day, and how learning to take ownership (instead of chasing perfection) creates real, lasting change.If you’re tired of the highs and lows of dieting, this one’s going to hit close to home.Episode Timeline: 0:00 – Episode Preview1:31 – Podcast Intro 2:31 –  What the all-or-nothing mindset is3:42 – The client stuck in a yo-yo diet cycle7:05 – Why restrictive diets always backfire9:40 – My personal struggle with rigid eating13:15 – The real reason we bounce between extremes15:45 – Why it’s not about food, it’s about mindset18:50 – Learning to take ownership and eat like an adult21:35 – Building systems that work in real life24:15 – How to live in the gray without guilt26:30 – Podcast Outro and invitation to take actionLinks & Resources:Connect with Ben on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bodysystemscoaching/Learn more about Ben’s coaching program: www.bodysystems.comSubscribe to the Smart Nutrition Made Simple Show on Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-smart-nutrition-made-simple-show-with-ben-brown/id1244912234  Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4H8vUlwYvKcAXZOv84sFgT Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@bodysystemscoaching Book Free Nutrition Strategy Call -  https://bodysystems.com/free-strategy-call/ 

What do you do when your body forces you to hit pause?In this episode, I share my recent battle with back pain that quite literally knocked me off my feet. From the frustration of not being able to move, to sitting with a spinal specialist and hearing words like ‘bulging discs’, it’s been a humbling reminder that none of us are invincible.I’ll talk about the treatments I’ve considered, the mental rollercoaster of dealing with injury, and the gratitude I’ve found through support from family, friends, and my community. More than anything, this experience has shown me that setbacks can become powerful opportunities to learn, adapt, and move forward in a smarter way.If you’ve ever felt stuck by injury or just life, I think this conversation will give you some perspective you can carry into your own journey.Episode Timeline:0:00 – Episode Preview 1:32 – Podcast Intro2:43 – Back pain knocks me down3:25 – How it happened (ego lifting + deadlifts)5:10 – Living with pain and frustration7:15 – Overwhelmed by too many treatment options9:40 – “Even professionals get confused”11:30 – Nobody has it all together13:55 – MRI results explained simply16:20 – Considering regenerative medicine18:40 – Lessons in gratitude and ego22:30 – Training smarter with core stability26:00 – Injuries as opportunities to pivot28:45 – Learning to be vulnerable and ask for help30:45 – Community support and closing thoughts30:45 – Podcast OutroLinks & Resources:Connect with Ben on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bodysystemscoaching/Learn more about Ben’s coaching program: www.bodysystems.comSubscribe to the Smart Nutrition Made Simple Show on Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-smart-nutrition-made-simple-show-with-ben-brown/id1244912234 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4H8vUlwYvKcAXZOv84sFgT Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@bodysystemscoaching Book Free Nutrition Strategy Call - https://bodysystems.com/free-strategy-call/

Supplements can either be a complete waste of money or the cutting-edge tool that takes your health and performance to the next level.In this conversation with Christian LaValle, co-founder of Metabolic Elite and son of James B. LaValle, an internationally recognized clinical pharmacist, board-certified clinical nutritionist, and leading authority in integrative medicine and human performance. We dig into the real science of supplementation and why delivery systems matter more than flashy labels.We cover the difference between traditional products and premium formulas, and how unconventional technology like liposomal delivery can radically improve absorption. Christian shares his journey immersed in foundational practices like good diet and performance health, and how growing up with his father shaped the vision behind Metabolic Elite. We also explore on-the-ground insights on recovery, cognitive support, immune health, and how to think strategically about supplements in the context of nutrition, training, and lifestyle.If you want to stop guessing and start using supplements with purpose, this is the episode that will help you cut through the noise and focus on what really works.Timestamp00:00 – Episode Preview01:13 – Podcast Intro04:09 – Christian LaValle joins the conversation05:14 – Growing up in performance health08:17 – Graduate studies in kinesiology & research10:03 – DEXA vs. bioelectrical impedance for body comp15:08 – Body fat % isn’t everything15:58 – Launch of Metabolic Elite19:58 – Building an expert advisory team22:01 – Liposomal technology explained23:11 – Why capsules often fail & absorption challenges25:24 – Practitioner and consumer use of Metabolic Elite products27:43 – Recovery, inflammation, and immune support30:57 – Synapsin: from nasal spray to chewable35:02 – Supplements are a tool, not a fix40:06 – Balance between research and real-world health43:13 – Industry problems: gimmicks vs. biochemistry47:12 – How to think about premium supplementation52:16 – The real trade-offs in health investment55:05 – Ben’s offer for supplement audits55:41 – Where to find Christian & Metabolic Elite55:57 – Podcast OutroConnect with Christian LaValle:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christianlavalle5/ Website: https://www.metabolicelite.co/ Jim LaValle’s Website: https://www.jimlavalle.com/Jim LaValle’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealjimlavalle/ Use code BodySystems for 10% off any order: Metabolic EliteLinks & Resources:Connect with Ben on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bodysystemscoaching/Learn more about Ben’s coaching program: www.bodysystems.comSubscribe to the Smart Nutrition Made Simple Show on Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-smart-nutrition-made-simple-show-with-ben-brown/id1244912234  Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4H8vUlwYvKcAXZOv84sFgT Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@bodysystemscoaching

What does it really take to build unshakable resilience in sport, in health, and in life?Lisa Tamati has lived a life defined by grit, from running ultramarathons across the world’s toughest terrains to facing her mum’s near-fatal aneurysm head-on. We dive into the mindset that carried her through seven-day desert treks, the years-long fight to bring her mum back from a coma, and how those experiences led her to explore hyperbaric oxygen therapy, genetic testing, and the science of longevity. She shares why gut health and the immune system sit at the core of healthy aging, and how she’s using her biotech work to give people tools to measure and improve their “immune age.” This conversation blends raw resilience with cutting-edge health insights. The kind of lessons you can actually use to live stronger, longer, and with more purpose.If you’re ready for a raw, inspiring look at how mindset, science, and self-belief can change your life, you don’t want to miss this episode.Timestamp00:01 – Podcast Preview01:14 – Podcast Intro02:25 – Meet Lisa Tamati05:03– Lisa’s Backstory and Grit08:37– Adventures Before Ultramarathons11:45 – Crossing the Libyan Desert20:06 – Building Entrepreneur Skills From Ultramarathons24:19 – Mum’s Collapse and Aneurysm28:54 – Doctors Predict Massive Brain Damage29:35 – Spotting Sleep Apnea Signs30:48 – Discovering Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy33:39 – Early Recovery With Oxygen Therapy34:56 – Years to Full Recovery37:52 – Mum’s Cancer Diagnosis40:48 – Developing Cancer Expertise42:27 – Importance of Personalized Health44:22 – Immune System at the Core of Aging46:15 – Gut Health Drives Immunity47:12 – Environmental Toxins and Gut Health51:11 – Lisa’s Biotech Company57:08 – Why Genetic Testing Matters58:31 – Genetic Insights for Health1:00:20 – Exercise, Genetics, and Weight Struggles1:04:45 – How to Connect With Lisa1:06:00 – Podcast Outro  Connect with Lisa Tamati: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6mc5BfQispXYMxd4AaYXYL?si=97a6e75469cd45dbYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@Lisa_Tamati Instagram: @lisatamatiPersonal Website: https://www.lisatamati.com/ Company Website: https://aevumlabs.co.nz/  Links & Resources:Connect with Ben on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bodysystemscoaching/Learn more about Ben’s coaching program: www.bodysystems.comSubscribe to the Smart Nutrition Made Simple Show on Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-smart-nutrition-made-simple-show-with-ben-brown/id1244912234  Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4H8vUlwYvKcAXZOv84sFgT Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@bodysystemscoaching

Dr. Jessica Foles, a naturopathic doctor and hormone specialist, delves into the pressing issues surrounding men's health, specifically testosterone and peptide therapy. She tackles the stigma of testosterone therapy and highlights the rising concerns of low T among younger men. The discussion covers how to recognize when testosterone replacement therapy is necessary and the importance of evaluating symptoms over standard lab ranges. Dr. Jess also explains how peptides can complement lifestyle changes and the impact of environmental toxins on hormone levels.

Most guys over 40 think building muscle and losing fat is just about training harder or eating cleaner. The reality is, that only gets you so far.True results come from optimizing the whole system: training, recovery, nutrition, hormones, and in some cases, leveraging tools like peptides. To dig deeper into this, I’m joined by Jeff Sakamoto. Jeff’s background in pro sports, bodybuilding, and now owner of a top peptide and hormone distribution company, gives him a unique perspective on what it really takes to move the needle.In this conversation, we break down what optimization really means, why most guys are leaving game-changing results on the table, and how to approach peptides safely so they actually work for you. The goal is simple: help you look, feel, and perform your best without grinding yourself into the ground.If you’re ready to move beyond outdated practices and start thinking like someone who values long-term health, energy, and performance, this is for you.Episode Timeline: 00:00 – Episode Preview01:05 – Welcome to the Show02:07 – Introducing Jeff Sakamoto04:36 – Jeff’s Journey Into Telemedicine05:42 – Dangers of self-sourcing peptides online08:52 – Ensuring quality & pharmacy standards11:02 – The pursuit of optimization12:15 – Early athletic background & low testosterone discovery17:25 – Stress, lifestyle, and body composition challenges19:39 – Misconceptions around sleep, food, and alcohol22:18 – Rationalizing habits vs. health goals23:52 – Micro-decisions and long-term progress25:06 – Ripple effects of daily choices25:24 – Shifting identity away from alcohol26:35 – Strength training after 4029:05 – Moving past CrossFit and high-intensity training29:55 – Training with intent, not annihilation30:36 – Breaking down peptides31:47 – Who should consider peptides33:49 – Hormones vs. Peptides: where to start35:26 – What “optimal” testosterone really means37:48 – The importance of free testosterone39:16 – Lifestyle factors before hormone therapy41:16 – Reframing GLP-1s as a powerful tool44:05 – Real-world results with GLP-1s45:28 – Advancements with retatrutide46:42 – Microdosing explained48:07 – Broader benefits of GLP-1s49:07 – Peptides that support healing & recovery51:36 – Popular anti-aging peptides (GHK-Cu)52:31 – Wrapping up & where to connect with Jeff53:24 – Guidance for finding good clinicians54:20 – Closing thoughtsConnect with Jeff Sakamoto: Jeff Sakamoto’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeff.sakamoto/ Company Website:  https://www.scripts.co/ Links & Resources:Connect with Ben on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bodysystemscoaching/Learn more about Ben’s coaching programs: www.bodysystems.comSubscribe to the Smart Nutrition Made Simple Show on Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-smart-nutrition-made-simple-show-with-ben-brown/id1244912234  Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4H8vUlwYvKcAXZOv84sFgT Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@bodysystemscoaching

Extreme weight loss isn’t about magic diets—it’s about science, psychology, and accountability.On today’s show, I interviewed Matt Hoodie, a coach who’s helped more than 30 people lose over 100 pounds and keep it off. We dig into his unique method of starting with calorie “budgets,” how he adapts plans for obese vs. leaner clients, and why focusing on macros or meal timing too soon sets people up to fail. Matt breaks down what happens to the body during massive weight loss, how to navigate metabolic adaptations, and the smartest way to reverse diet without regaining everything. This episode is a masterclass in the real art and science of sustainable weight loss.If you want the truth about what it actually takes to lose massive weight and keep it off, you won’t want to skip this one.Timestamp 00:00 – Episode Preview00:55 – Podcast Intro 01:47 – Introducing Matt Hoodie05:41 – Why Empathy Matters in Coaching Extreme Weight Loss07:04 – Matt’s Childhood, Medications, and Hitting 300+ lbs08:27 – Turning Point: Health Scare, Dietetics, and Self-Change12:48 – Starting Coaching: Early Clients and Realizing Nutrition > Training18:23 – Building His Own Calorie-Budgeting Algorithm20:41 – Specialized Coaching vs. Cookie-Cutter Formulas22:16 – Metabolic Adaptation in Long-Term Weight Loss24:05 – Using Carbs to Break Plateaus25:23 – Behavioral Curve: From Basics → Education → Maintenance27:05 – Empowering Clients with Education & Autonomy28:10 – Reverse Dieting: Restoring Metabolism After Weight Loss34:34 – How to Safely Ramp Up Calories Post-Diet36:25 – The Harder Part: Accountability in Maintenance37:34 – Accountability: 80% of Coaching Success39:32 – Coaching Beyond Macros: Habits, Empathy, & Behavior Change41:33 – The Coaching Industry’s Problems & Client Retention42:49 – Coaching as Both Science and Human Connection43:07 – The Realities of Coaching: Not a Get-Rich-Quick Path44:26 – Where to Follow Matt Hoodie45:04 – Closing Thoughts and Call to ActionConnect with Matt Hoodie: Matt Hoodie’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matthoodie/ Links & Resources:Connect with Ben on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bodysystemscoaching/Learn more about Ben’s coaching programs: www.bodysystems.comSubscribe to the Smart Nutrition Made Simple Show on Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-smart-nutrition-made-simple-show-with-ben-brown/id1244912234  Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4H8vUlwYvKcAXZOv84sFgT Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@bodysystemscoaching

Want better results? Stop blaming your plan and start owning your commitments.Coaching isn’t about being handed the “perfect” diet or workout. It’s about the six core commitments that actually move the needle. In this episode, I break them down—why preparation matters, why consistency beats perfection, and how honesty, curiosity, engagement, and true investment separate the people who succeed from the ones who spin their wheels.This isn’t about hacks. It’s about raising your standard and taking responsibility for the outcomes you want.If you’re serious about building confidence and getting results that actually last—this is your wake-up call. Tune in nowEpisode Timeline: 00:00 – Episode Preview00:38 –  Welcome & What We Really Do at Body Systems02:33 – Coaching Is a Two-Way Street03:22 – Why Ben Hired 2 Business Coaches05:10 – The Mirror Moment: Taking Radical Ownership06:44 – Commitment #1: Be Prepared08:45 – Commitment #2: Be Consistent09:54 – Commitment #3: Be Honest11:47 – Commitment #4: Be Curious13:06– Commitment #5: Be Engaged14:35 – Commitment #6: Be Invested16:07 – Ben’s Self-Check on His Own Commitments17:32 – Invitation to Work Together 17:58 –  Podcast OutroLinks & Resources:Connect with Ben on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bodysystemscoaching/Learn more about Ben’s coaching programs: www.bodysystems.comSubscribe to the Smart Nutrition Made Simple Show on Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-smart-nutrition-made-simple-show-with-ben-brown/id1244912234  Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4H8vUlwYvKcAXZOv84sFgT Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@bodysystemscoaching

What got you fit in your 20s won’t keep you strong in your 40s and beyond.I’m pulling back the curtain on why so many driven men and women in midlife feel stuck despite working hard in the gym and trying to “eat clean.” The truth is, your body, responsibilities, and stress levels have changed—and your plan needs to change with them. We’ll cover how to match your training to your current recovery capacity, why less volume done with more intent often wins, and the simple nutrition pillars that actually work for a busy schedule. It’s about aligning your habits with the life you’re living now so you can get stronger, leaner, and healthier without burning out.Press play and let’s cut through the noise so you can follow a proven, sustainable plan that delivers results, fits your life, and keeps you performing at your best.Episode Timeline: 00:00 – Episode Preview00:47 – Podcast Intro01:29 – Why Your Old Plan Isn’t Working Anymore04:31 – Who This Message Is For05:36 – My Background and Real-Life Perspective07:55 – Why You Can’t Train Like You’re 20 Anymore10:45 – Recovery Is as Important as Training12:37 – More Is Not Better, Better Is Better13:34 – Finding Your Ideal Training Volume14:17 – Train With Enough Intensity15:34 – Rethinking Sets, Reps, and Hypertrophy21:04 – Old Food Rules Don’t Work Anymore23:53 – Why You Need a Structured Plan and Coaching26:16 – Redefining Your Identity30:15 – Ready to Make a Change?31:11 – Podcast OutroLinks & Resources:Connect with Ben on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bodysystemscoaching/Learn more about Ben’s coaching programs: www.bodysystems.comSubscribe to the Smart Nutrition Made Simple Show on Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-smart-nutrition-made-simple-show-with-ben-brown/id1244912234  Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4H8vUlwYvKcAXZOv84sFgT Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@bodysystemscoaching

The fastest way to stand out? Live with more intention than 99% of people.Brent Orsuga knows that success doesn’t come from luck, it comes from living on purpose. As an elite headhunter and entrepreneur, he’s built his life around intentional decisions, relentless discipline, and surrounding himself with people who raise the bar. In this conversation, we unpack how to turn setbacks into fuel, build mental toughness that carries over into every area of life, and create goals so clear you can’t help but hit them. Brent’s approach is raw, direct, and proven — and it’s the push you need to stop playing small.Tune in to discover how to build the mindset, habits, and standards that put you in the top 1% of performers.Episode Timeline: 00:00 – Episode Preview00:52 – Podcast Intro01:31 – Meet Brent & His High-Performance Mindset05:40 – “Still Not Satisfied” Mentality06:48 – From Setback to CEO09:41 – Choosing Hard to Build Grit11:40 – Confidence from Keeping Promises13:33 – Intentional vs. Intense15:39 – Building a High-Performer Circle17:41 – First Impressions Count24:42 – Success as a Math Equation26:20 – Business vs. Health Disconnect28:13 – Cutting What Holds You Back31:08 – Owning Your Choices33:54 – Data-Driven Optimization35:22 – Feeding Your Mind36:59 – Training Early for an Edge38:28 – First Steps to Better Health40:28 – Connect with Brent43:54 – Lifestyle Shapes Your Circle45:36 – It’s Not Hard As You Think, Just Start47:32 – Closing RemarksConnect with Brent Orsuga: Brent Orsuga’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/topfreightrecruiter/ Links & Resources:Connect with Ben on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bodysystemscoaching/Learn more about Ben’s coaching programs: www.bodysystems.comSubscribe to the Smart Nutrition Made Simple Show on Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-smart-nutrition-made-simple-show-with-ben-brown/id1244912234  Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4H8vUlwYvKcAXZOv84sFgT