Self-Selecting

Cory Hageman
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Jul 25, 2025 • 1h 7min

E. 98 Maria Vegas: How to Prioritize Your Health and Still Win

In this episode I’m joined by IFBB Pro Maria Vegas for a deep dive into the realities of prep, athlete responsibility, emotional eating, and the intelligent use of supplementation in bodybuilding. Maria gets incredibly candid about her current prep for the Tampa Pro, her journey with emotional eating, and how she’s optimized her physique without compromising her mental or physical health.We talk coaching philosophy, the importance of playing the long game, why “doing whatever it takes” often backfires, and how to decode the metrics judges are really looking at. Maria also opens up about using GLP-1s like semaglutide and retatrutide, and breaks down exactly how she approaches supplementation with responsibility and research.Timestamps:- [00:00 – 00:56] - Overcoming illness mid-prep and why health comes first- [00:56 – 02:54] - Navigating sickness and deciding to postpone a competition- [02:54 – 05:50] - Pro athletes modeling recovery-first approaches for longevity- [05:50 – 08:00] - Working with Paul Revelia: Health-first coaching and long-game strategy- [08:00 – 15:31] - Why most coaches neglect mental health & the cost of chasing leanness- [15:31 – 25:53] - Data-driven prep: Tracking waist-to-hip ratios, Dexa scans & judge criteria- [25:53 – 27:40] - The skill of interpreting data vs. blindly mimicking physiques- [27:40 – 31:15] - Leanness isn’t what wins: Misconceptions about judging criteria- [31:15 – 38:34] - Core engagement vs. core growth: The science of pelvic stability- [38:34 – 44:00] - Athlete responsibility: Stop blaming your coach, take control- [44:00 – 46:16] - Supplements are not candy: Stop blindly trusting marketing- [46:16 – 51:00] - Understanding over-the-counter vs. performance drugs & expected outcomes- [51:00 – 52:00] - Coaches pushing sponsored supplements: Red flag warning- [52:00 – 58:10] - What is Retatrutide? Maria’s experience and why it’s not a cheat code- [58:10 – 01:06:00] - GLP-1s & Semaglutide: The misunderstood tools with legacy effects- [01:06:00 – 01:07:08] - Final thoughts: Prepping with purpose and never compromising healthLinks & Resources:Follow Maria on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themariavegas/?hl=enPose With Maria: https://tr.ee/UeJdeHgq1hhttps://coryfit.com/⁠Coaching: Let's Chat⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15minConsults: Book a Call⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultationFor more content, follow along:⁠Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/cory_fit/⁠Patreon⁠: https://patreon.com/CoryFit?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink
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Jul 21, 2025 • 43min

E. 97 Hormonal Red Flags: How Stress and Diet Are Wrecking Your Cycle

In this solo episode of the Self Selecting Podcast, we’re diving deep into a topic that many of you have been asking for—hormonal health, menstrual cycles, and how they intersect with female athletes’ training, recovery, and performance.From understanding anovulation and amenorrhea to navigating perimenopause, menopause, and the impact of lifestyle and PEDs, I’m giving you a full breakdown of how your body is signaling imbalances and what that actually means. Whether you’re a competitor, coach, or someone trying to figure out your hormonal roadmap, this is a must-listen.We also get real about misdiagnoses, lab recommendations, and why cookie-cutter protocols don’t work for hormonally complex issues.Timestamps:- [00:00 – 02:54] – Intro, guest recap, Patreon episode debate, and Cory's health update- [02:54 – 04:37] – One-time consults & how Cory supports athletes dealing with hormonal challenges- [04:37 – 07:19] – Defining common hormone conditions: anovulation, amenorrhea, perimenopause, menopause- [07:19 – 09:31] – Understanding anovulation: bleeding vs true menstrual cycles- [09:31 – 12:00] – Amenorrhea explained: primary vs. secondary, chronic stress & diagnosis- [12:00 – 14:44] – Digging deeper into secondary amenorrhea, PCOS, thyroid function, prolactin- [14:44 – 17:19] – Functional hypothalamic amenorrhea (FHA): how stress & under-eating disrupt reproduction- [17:19 – 20:56] – What perimenopause looks like & how lifestyle can accelerate onset- [20:56 – 23:06] – Perimenopause vs dieting stress, long-term effects on hormonal health- [23:06 – 26:03] – What menopause is and how it differs from perimenopause & amenorrhea- [26:03 – 28:39] – Why symptoms aren’t always hormone-driven: the role of lifestyle and stress- [28:39 – 31:21] – The problem with prescribed Anavar and other aggressive HRT protocols- [31:21 – 33:24] – The risk of dieting too hard: how chronic suppression compounds over time- [33:24 – 36:46] – Why sleep and nutrition are critical for hormonal preservation- [36:46 – 40:06] – Why getting your period is a sign of optimal health (and not an inconvenience)- [40:06 – 43:25] – Lab test recommendations + closing thoughts on hormone mismanagement & empowermentLinks & Resources:https://coryfit.com/⁠Coaching: Let's Chat⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15minConsults: Book a Call⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultationFor more content, follow along:⁠Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/cory_fit/⁠Patreon⁠: https://patreon.com/CoryFit?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink
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Jul 14, 2025 • 44min

E. 96 How to Nail Conditioning Without Ruining Your Physique on Show Day

In this episode of the Self Selecting podcast, I dive deep into the nuances of peak week, conditioning, and what it actually means to show up ready. It’s not just about how you want to look — it’s how you stack up next to others. I break down misunderstood feedback terms like “coming in full” vs. “coming in flat,” and explain how to actually interpret and apply this feedback to improve your showing. I also discuss why most athletes are under-muscled, how judging often hinges on who shows up, and how many competitors ruin their look with last-minute changes. You’ll hear the reality behind show-day outcomes, and why cookie-cutter prep plans fail more often than not.Timestamps:- [00:00 – 02:57] - Introduction: Expectations vs. reality in show prep- [02:58 – 05:54] - Why your look is judged next to others, not in isolation- [05:55 – 08:51] - Interpreting feedback: “Coming in full” and “coming in flat”- [08:52 – 11:48] - How to assess fullness vs. conditioning as an art- [11:49 – 14:45] - Should you come in flat or full? Best way to decide- [14:46 – 17:42] - Most athletes are under-muscled: What that means- [17:43 – 20:39] - Conditioning wins at amateur level, but depends on competitors- [20:40 – 23:36] - Shifting standards: It depends on who shows up- [23:37 – 26:33] - The athlete matters more than the plan- [26:34 – 29:30] - Last-minute changes that ruin physiques- [29:31 – 32:27] - The psychology behind “doing more” before show day- [32:28 – 35:24] - Strategy vs. panic: Why timing matters- [35:25 – 38:21] - Why you should stop comparing yourself to the pros- [38:22 – 41:18] - Recap: What makes a prep plan fail or succeed- [41:19 – 44:24] - Final takeaways: Getting smarter with each prepLinks & Resources:https://coryfit.com/Coaching: Let's Chat⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15min⁠Consults: Book a Call⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultationFor more content, follow along:⁠Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/cory_fit/Patreon⁠: https://patreon.com/CoryFit?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink
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Jul 11, 2025 • 59min

E. 95 PEDs & Boundaries: How to Know When You’ve Gone Too Far With Brianny Terry

In this episode, I sat down with Brianny Terry to discuss performance-enhancing drug (PED) use in the bodybuilding space—especially in women’s divisions. We got candid about dosage, risks, and the unspoken sacrifices that come with elite physique development. From the idea of preserving femininity to the reality of internal health concerns, we unpack what it really means to walk the fine line of physical enhancement. Brianny shares how she personally defines her “hard stop,” the value of choice even when it’s not fun, and the realities behind compounds like anavar and winstrol.This conversation is a must-listen if you’re an athlete considering performance enhancement, a coach looking to support your athletes better, or someone curious about the lived experience behind the physique stage.Timestamps:- [00:00 – 02:00] – Intro to Brianny Terry and the focus of today’s conversation- [02:00 – 04:32] – Setting the stage: transparency in drug use- [04:33 – 08:21] – PED usage & anavar dosing: what’s considered moderate or aggressive?- [08:21 – 11:55] – Navigating femininity in a muscle-forward sport- [11:56 – 16:15] – Defining boundaries: “What does your hard stop look like?”- [16:16 – 21:30] – Balancing aesthetic goals with internal health concerns- [21:31 – 26:40] – Impact of oral steroids on liver health- [26:41 – 30:58] – Athlete responsibility and self-accountability in enhanced prep- [30:59 – 34:00] – Developing the ability to “know your why” and commit through discomfort- [34:01 – 38:00] – Internal resistance: the grind of showing up daily- [38:01 – 42:00] – Are you doing this for you—or someone else?- [42:01 – 44:56] – Using Winstrol: benefits, drawbacks, and limitations- [44:57 – 49:00] – Supplement stacks: when do they help, when do they backfire?- [49:01 – 52:00] – Decision fatigue and the importance of deloads- [52:01 – 59:21] – Closing thoughts: redefining success and choosing discomfortLinks & Resources:Follow Brianny on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briannyt/?hl=ehttps://coryfit.com/Coaching: Let's Chat⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15minConsults: Book a Call⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultationFor more content, follow along:⁠Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/cory_fit/⁠Patreon⁠: https://patreon.com/CoryFit?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink
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Jul 7, 2025 • 49min

E. 94 Female TRT 101: How to Optimize Hormones Without Guesswork

In this episode, I talk through critical issues around hormone therapy and lab testing, especially for women navigating TRT (testosterone replacement therapy). I break down common pitfalls in provider care, how symptomology is often overlooked, and why proper lab work is a non-negotiable. If you're confused about DHEA, TRT, or the impact of low-fat diets on hormone production, this one’s for you.I also tackle how to read ovulation signs properly, the role of functional health coaches, and the importance of subjective data in optimizing hormone protocols. We close with tips on adjusting dosages, how libido reflects hormonal balance, and why you should never treat lab ranges like hard rules.Timestamps:- [00:00 – 03:15] - Opening thoughts on lab work and hormone optimization- [03:15 – 06:30] - When subjective data matters more than lab numbers- [06:30 – 09:45] - Dangers of improper provider protocols- [09:45 – 13:00] - Ovulation, cycle tracking, and hormonal accuracy- [13:00 – 16:15] - Female TRT and understanding where it fits- [16:15 – 19:30] - The danger of low-fat diets for hormone production- [19:30 – 22:45] - Functional coaches, DHEA, and questionable care- [22:45 – 26:00] - Most common TRT missteps in women- [26:00 – 29:15] - Symptomology vs numbers in diagnosing low testosterone- [29:15 – 32:30] - TRT administration methods: pros and cons- [32:30 – 35:45] - The importance of titrating doses correctly- [35:45 – 39:00] - Libido as a reflection of hormonal health- [39:00 – 42:15] - Overcorrecting TRT protocols too fast- [42:15 – 45:30] - Escalation risks in hormone therapy- [45:30 – 48:46] - Final takeaways: test smarter, not harderLinks & Resources:https://coryfit.com/⁠Coaching: Let's Chat⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15min⁠Consults: Book a Call⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultationFor more content, follow along:⁠Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/cory_fit/Patreon⁠: https://patreon.com/CoryFit?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink
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Jun 30, 2025 • 49min

E. 93 Is Anavar Worth It? What You NEED To Know Before Taking It

In this episode of the Self Selecting Podcast, I take a deep dive into Anavar, one of the most commonly discussed and misunderstood oral anabolic steroids in physique sports. Drawing from real experience, we break down the misconceptions, physiological effects, and potential long-term consequences of using Anavar — especially for bikini competitors.I talk about why "Anavar is harmless" is one of the most dangerous myths, how the fitness industry often misuses it for fat loss, and why your genetics, goals, and timing must dictate its application — if at all. Whether you’re currently cycling or just curious about PEDs in the bodybuilding space, this conversation is a must-listen before making any decisions.Timestamps:- [00:00 – 00:56] – Opening thoughts: real regrets and revisiting Anavar use- [00:56 – 02:54] – Why “Anavar is harmless” is a dangerous myth- [02:54 – 05:12] – The direction bikini bodybuilding is going & the PED conversation- [05:12 – 07:06] – Explaining what Anavar actually is: origin, function, anabolic profile- [07:06 – 09:08] – Anavar’s real potential: does it help build muscle or burn fat?- [09:08 – 10:52] – Liver toxicity and why “mild” doesn’t mean safe- [10:52 – 12:26] – Cardiovascular risk: how Anavar negatively impacts your lipids- [12:26 – 15:13] – Why an Anavar-only cycle is problematic- [15:13 – 17:45] – Understanding Anavar’s half-life and timing mistakes- [17:45 – 20:41] – Using it for fat loss: the industry’s biggest misuse- [20:41 – 23:27] – The myth of Anavar as a “hardening agent”- [23:27 – 26:05] – Overdosing and staying on Anavar for too long- [26:05 – 29:11] – “Should I use Anavar in the off-season?” Pros and cons- [29:11 – 32:00] – Wrapping up: takeaways for competitors considering PEDs- [32:00 – 34:04] – Real-world impact vs expectations: why results may disappoint- [34:04 – 36:15] – Final notes on risk, responsibility, and being honest with your goalsLinks & Resources:https://coryfit.com/⁠Coaching: Let's Chat⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15min⁠Consults: Book a Call⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultationFor more content, follow along:⁠Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/cory_fit/⁠Patreon⁠: https://patreon.com/CoryFit?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink
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Jun 27, 2025 • 55min

E. 92 Elisabet Vang: The Bikini Training Standard Nobody Talks About

In this episode, I sit down with bikini competitor Elisabet Vang to discuss what it truly takes to isolate and develop the glutes, train with intensity during prep, and avoid common programming mistakes in the bikini division. We dig into why blindly following a plan won’t get you the physique you’re after, how to adjust your training mindset, and what role performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) actually play when paired with suboptimal intensity.We break down how movement intention, not just movement selection, matters—especially in the context of the hip thrust. Elisabet shares how she's refined her form and effort over time, and we both get honest about what’s required to train like a pro in bikini when the division lacks standardized criteria.Timestamps:- [00:00 – 03:40] - Intro: Meet Elisabet Vang and the training topic at hand- [03:40 – 07:20] - Program design, progression, and glute isolation philosophy- [07:20 – 11:00] - Problems with common programming and movement patterns- [11:00 – 14:40] - Overusing hip thrusts and what’s missing from execution- [14:40 – 18:20] - Not just what you do—but how you do it (neuromuscular connection)- [18:20 – 22:00] - What you’ve actually done to isolate glutes- [22:00 – 25:40] - When the hip thrust becomes a crutch vs a tool- [25:40 – 29:20] - Getting real with intensity: effort during training- [29:20 – 33:00] - PED use: it’s not a shortcut if you lack effort- [33:00 – 36:40] - Form, feel, and focusing too much on a checklist- [36:40 – 40:20] - Executing during fat loss: intensity matters more- [40:20 – 44:00] - Lifting heavy when calories are low- [44:00 – 47:40] - The truth about “standards” in bikini training- [47:40 – 51:20] - How training individuality matters more than rules- [51:20 – 55:12] - Final takeaways and building longevity in bikiniLinks & Resources:Follow Elisabet on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elisabetvang_ifbbpro/?hl=enhttps://coryfit.com/⁠Coaching: Let's Chat⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15minConsults: Book a Call⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultationFor more content, follow along:⁠Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/cory_fit/Patreon⁠: https://patreon.com/CoryFit?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink
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Jun 23, 2025 • 42min

E. 91 Bikini vs Wellness vs Figure: Which Division is Right For You?

In this episode, I dive into a comprehensive comparison of the Bikini, Wellness, and Figure divisions, breaking down exactly what makes each category unique. Whether you’re deciding which division to pursue or reevaluating your current path, this episode will help you understand the judging criteria, common misconceptions, and how to assess your own physique realistically.Timestamps:- [00:00 – 02:47] – Intro and setting the stage for division breakdowns- [02:47 – 05:27] – Bikini: what the judges look for- [05:27 – 06:48] – Breaking down Wellness structure and shape- [06:48 – 08:02] – Bikini athletes transitioning to Wellness too soon- [08:02 – 08:41] – What separates Figure from the rest- [08:41 – 14:45] – How conditioning varies for each division- [14:45 – 17:05] – Bikini vs. Wellness: criteria vs. competition realities- [17:05 – 21:24] – Sacrificing waistlines in pursuit of glutes- [21:24 – 25:24] – Bikini balance myth and quad vs. glute development- [25:24 – 28:41] – Comparing muscle mass across Bikini, Wellness, and Figure- [28:41 – 30:39] – Knowing your ceiling in Figure before transitioning- [30:39 – 34:00] – How to assess if you’re ready for another division- [34:00 – 37:00] – Are you actually ready for Wellness or just carrying more fat?- [37:00 – 39:46] – Embracing discomfort in Wellness and Figure- [39:46 – 41:52] – The discipline needed to maintain division-level conditioningLinks & Resources:https://coryfit.com/⁠Coaching: Let's Chat⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15min⁠Consults: Book a Call⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultationFor more content, follow along:⁠Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/cory_fit/Patreon⁠: https://patreon.com/CoryFit?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink
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Jun 16, 2025 • 52min

E. 90 How to Measure Your Body Fat Percentage

In this episode of the Self Selecting podcast, I dive deep into a question many physique-focused individuals face: How much does body fat percentage really matter? From DEXA scans and calipers to at-home smart scales, I break down the science, the myths, and the practicality of various body fat measurement tools.I also discuss what truly impacts scan results—like sodium, hydration, and the time of day—and why getting too caught up in a number might hurt more than help. If you’ve ever second-guessed a scan or obsessed over lean body mass, this episode is your guide to understanding the data and using it to actually move the needle in your health and fitness goals.Timestamps:- [00:00 – 01:10] - Intro: The confusion around body fat percentage- [01:10 – 05:50] - Why we obsess over body fat numbers and what to ask instead- [05:51 – 10:31] - Misconceptions about lean body mass and DEXA scans- [10:32 – 11:27] - What DEXA really tells you—and what it doesn’t- [11:28 – 18:22] - BOD POD accuracy and use in real-world settings- [18:23 – 21:49] - Hydrostatic weighing: gold standard or outdated?- [21:50 – 23:59] - Calipers: are they still valid in 2024?- [24:00 – 29:55] - BIA tech: from gyms to doctor’s offices- [29:56 – 32:34] - At-home scales and MRI/CT scans for tracking fat- [32:35 – 33:59] - What makes these tools vary so much? (hydration, sodium, time)- [34:00 – 38:46] - Pitfalls of body scans: tracking wrong data- [38:47 – 40:31] - How sodium, carbs, and water impact scan readings- [40:32 – 42:28] - Build a routine for consistency in tracking- [42:29 – 46:29] - How to track trends, not obsess over numbers- [46:30 – 48:59] - Spotting when muscle is being lost in a cut- [49:00 – 52:12] - Final takeaways: stop chasing body fat percentageLinks & Resources:https://coryfit.com/⁠Coaching: Let's Chat⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15min⁠Consults: Book a Call⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultationFor more content, follow along:⁠Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/cory_fit/⁠Patreon⁠: https://patreon.com/CoryFit?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink
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Jun 13, 2025 • 56min

E. 89 Nick Ridpath: Debunking Common Myths and Mistakes Around Glute Training

In this episode of the Self Selecting podcast, I sit down with Nick Ridpath to unpack common myths, mistakes, and overcomplications around glute training. From misunderstood exercise programming to improper warm-ups and misguided attachment to weight, we discuss what really matters in developing strong, functional glutes. We also break down common errors in RDLs, share thoughts on hip thrusts, and dive deep into programming around pain, progress, and performance.Timestamps:- [00:00 – 01:29] – Intro and setting the stage for today’s glute-focused conversation- [01:30 – 05:49] – The truth about “special” glute programs and why simple usually wins- [05:50 – 08:39] – How overcomplicating movements sabotages glute growth- [08:40 – 12:41] – Assessment for glute-dominant training and understanding diminishing returns- [12:42 – 16:41] – Most common RDL mistakes I see and how to fix them- [16:42 – 20:23] – Managing and preventing lower back pain during RDLs- [20:24 – 24:44] – Glute pumps ≠ glute growth: what to prioritize instead- [24:45 – 29:59] – Emotional attachment to heavy weights and its downside- [30:00 – 31:29] – The warm-up mistake holding your glute training back- [31:30 – 35:59] – Why smart exercise selection matters more than intensity- [36:00 – 38:42] – The most overlooked variable in glute-focused programs- [38:43 – 42:59] – Thoughts on hip thrusts: are they overrated or misunderstood?- [43:00 – 45:59] – Why I prefer the 45-degree hip extensio- [46:00 – 50:04] – Training glutes to failure: how far is too far?- [50:05 – 56:21] – Programming reps, rest, and recovery for real progressLinks & Resources:Follow Nick on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickridpath_/?hl=enWork With Nick: https://www.unbranded-performance.com/contactJoin The Advisory Membership Portal: https://www.unbranded-performance.com/advisoryhttps://coryfit.com/⁠Coaching: Let's Chat⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15min⁠Consults: Book a Call⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultationFor more content, follow along:⁠Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/cory_fit/⁠Patreon⁠: https://patreon.com/CoryFit?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

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