
Savage Perspective Podcast
The "Savage Perspective Podcast" is hosted by Robert Sikes, WNBF Pro Natural Bodybuilder. Robert has been deconstructing human performance and is willing to push the envelope to see what is possible. He's been following a ketogenic lifestyle for over a decade, is the founder and formulator of Keto Brick, and has a passion for helping others achieve their highest potential. In the show, he brings on guests to dive deeper into what has led to their successes and failures in all walks of life from fitness to business, relationships to spirituality so you can learn and take action!
Latest episodes

May 9, 2025 • 26min
The Work Podcast Episode 8 - Post Competition Binge
Register For My FREE Masterclass: https://www.ketobodybuilding.com/registration-2Get Keto Brick: https://www.ketobrick.com/Subscribe to the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/42cjJssghqD01bdWBxRYEg?si=1XYKmPXmR4eKw2O9gGCEuQGreg Mahler is also a lifetime natural bodybuilder, and can be followed on Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/ketogreg80/In this episode of The Work, Greg and I kick things off with a little fashion roast, a solid gym session recap, and then get into the nitty gritty behind the scenes at Keto Brick. We talk about the recent price change, and honestly, the response from y’all has been incredible. So much support. It just reaffirms that our community gets it—we’re never going to cut corners on quality just to save a buck.We also talk about sourcing quality meat locally and feeding our families with intention. I helped coordinate a cow share for my men’s group and ended up with over 400 pounds of grass-finished beef at just over $8 a pound. It’s about more than macros—it’s about how we fuel our people.From homemade egg wraps and protein pancakes to craving chaffles and planning a massive post-show barbecue with pork butts and roasted lamb—this one’s full of good food and even better conversation. We also share macro breakdowns, talk about smart refeeds after competitions, and give updates on the loyalty program, inventory, and our upcoming free posing seminar on May 24th.At the end of the day, we’re here to build something meaningful—rooted in real food, real transparency, and a community that actually gives a damn. Thanks for showing up with us.Timestamps & Highlights:00:00 – Gym talk & peanut butter jelly bricks04:00 – Price change recap & community feedback10:00 – Cow shares, local sourcing, and freezer logistics17:00 – DIY egg wraps, protein pancakes & chaffle memories25:00 – Post-show refeeds done right34:00 – September show barbecue: pork butts & lamb40:00 – Redmond Salt joins the party43:00 – Loyalty program + inventory updates49:00 – Rigel’s keto birthday menu (spoiler: “the biggest steak of my life”)

May 7, 2025 • 1h 8min
5 Steps to Turn a Small Gym into a Thriving Business
Do you dream of turning your small gym into a thriving business that members love? Are you ready to elevate your gym’s vibe, create a strong community, and balance your personal life while running a profitable fitness empire? This episode is for you. Join Robert Sikes, host of the Savage Perspective Podcast, and special guest Will Anthony in episode 777 as they reveal the strategies and tools you need to transform your gym into the go-to place for fitness enthusiasts.In this eye-opening conversation, Robert and Will dive deep into the secrets behind building a powerful gym atmosphere, finding and maintaining top-tier equipment, and creating a sense of community that keeps your members coming back for more. You’ll also hear their honest take on juggling business responsibilities with family life, the importance of setting boundaries, and tips for fostering deep connections with clients and staff. Whether you’re a small gym owner or someone considering starting your fitness business, this episode is packed with insights to help you grow.Ready to take control of your fitness business and start building something exceptional? Join Robert’s FREE Bodybuilding Masterclass today and learn how to fine-tune your gym’s strategy, design, and atmosphere for lasting success.Here are the 5 Steps Robert and Will discuss:1. Start Small and Scale Gradually - Begin with essential equipment and space you can afford, adding more as the business grows to avoid overwhelming initial costs.2. Create an Inviting Vibe - Focus on curating the gym's atmosphere through quality equipment, staff interactions, and overall environment to enhance member experiences and retention.3. Implement Strategic Pricing - Set prices that reflect the value of your offerings, allowing for better control over the gym's culture and attracting committed members who appreciate the investment.4. Foster a Strong Community - Build and maintain a positive community by prioritizing member interactions, addressing issues promptly, and ensuring the space supports everyone's goals without exclusivity.5. Maintain Personal Involvement and Balance - Stay actively involved in operations while managing personal life to set a positive example and sustain long-term motivation for both owners and members.Register For My FREE Masterclass: https://www.ketobodybuilding.com/registration-2Get Keto Brick: https://www.ketobrick.com/Subscribe to the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/42cjJssghqD01bdWBxRYEg?si=1XYKmPXmR4eKw2O9gGCEuQChapters:0:00 Balancing success, fitness, and life1:00 Build your gym’s winning vibe2:53 Find top-tier gym equipment5:01 Choose smarter equipment for happy members6:44 Create a gym atmosphere members love10:06 Build a strong gym community11:38 Host events to grow your gym14:57 Balance family and business16:46 Use tools to manage your gym remotely19:42 Work-life struggles revealed21:01 Handle gym issues after hours24:03 Why self-sufficient women stand out25:31 Teach kids gun safety responsibly28:35 Secure firearm storage tips30:01 Educate kids: Guns are tools32:55 Protective instincts of pets34:17 Socialize your dog with patience37:27 Bonds formed through military life39:17 Civilian life after the military42:46 Ego vs. real growth44:20 Combat lessons: Appreciate life47:51 Sacrifices of military roles49:05 Understand military responsibilities52:03 Prioritize family during business stress53:43 Balance life with the 80/20 rule56:39 Plan an epic Yellowstone trip58:06 Wildlife spotting tips for Yellowstone1:01:11 Chase big goals, balance commitments1:02:36 Push limits for personal growth1:05:16 Explore Northwest Arkansas nature1:06:45 Make your gym easy to join

May 5, 2025 • 35min
Crystal's Second Trimester: Surviving the Pain
Crystal’s second trimester hasn't been pain free. From battling relentless pain to navigating crucial decisions about childbirth, this episode dives deep into the raw, unfiltered truth of her journey. Joined by her husband, and Savage Perspective Podcast host, Robert Sikes, Crystal opens up about surviving severe SI and sciatic pain while making tough choices about fitness, nutrition, and shifting birth plans. This is a powerful and personal look into the challenges of balancing health, family, and ambition.In episode 776 of the Savage Perspective Podcast, Robert and Crystal share the highs and lows of preparing for the birth of their second child. Crystal discusses how she managed her pregnancy weight gain and adjusted her fitness routine to stay healthy despite the pain. They reflect on the stress of changing from a planned home birth to a hospital birth due to new regulations, all while tackling the emotional toll of past birth experiences and C-section recovery. With a focus on informed decision-making, you’ll hear a candid discussion about V-back options, hospital policies, and trusting in the support of midwives and doctors.If you’re interested in making better decisions about health, family, and balancing it all, this episode is for you. Don’t miss Robert’s FREE Bodybuilding Masterclass here: https://www.ketobodybuilding.com/registration-2 to continue building a stronger, healthier future.Watch now to gain insight, inspiration, and advice from Robert and Crystal as they navigate this transformative chapter in their lives.Register For My FREE Masterclass: https://www.ketobodybuilding.com/registration-2Get Keto Brick: https://www.ketobrick.com/Subscribe to the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/42cjJssghqD01bdWBxRYEg?si=1XYKmPXmR4eKw2O9gGCEuQChapters:0:00 Sickness, pain, and birth plan decisions2:24 Pregnancy pain and weight gain6:28 Fitness and diet adjustments8:28 Stress and changing birth plans12:45 Emergency C-section experience14:38 V-back safety and home births18:40 Lack of V-back education20:45 Hospital challenges with V-backs24:31 Doctor insights on V-back prep26:22 Natural hospital birth plan29:50 Preparing first child for sibling31:32 Excitement and balancing life34:53 Smooth pregnancy and love

May 2, 2025 • 36min
The Work Podcast Episode 7 Keto Brick Updates
Register For My FREE Masterclass: https://www.ketobodybuilding.com/registration-2Get Keto Brick: https://www.ketobrick.com/Subscribe to the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/42cjJssghqD01bdWBxRYEg?si=1XYKmPXmR4eKw2O9gGCEuQPricing announcement details:https://www.ketobrick.com/pages/keto-brick-pricing-announcementWe’re back in the saddle this week with a big ol’ dose of transparency and a behind-the-scenes look at some major changes at Keto Brick. After a quick taste test of some new ketone drinks and a chat about low-acid coffee, Greg and I dive deep into why we’re raising the base price of the bricks for the first time since launching back in 2018. It’s a move we didn’t take lightly, but the math doesn’t lie—costs are up across the board, and this change is necessary to keep serving our amazing community without cutting corners or compromising on quality.We talk about how Keto Brick started with just Crystal and me making bricks in our kitchen after hours, what’s changed since then, and why the mission has always been about offering the cleanest, most functional performance bar on the market—not just chasing profit. We also introduce our brand-new loyalty program, built to reward our most dedicated customers with perks like points, tiered benefits, and potentially early access to flavor launches.Beyond that, we chat about parenting in a tech-saturated world, upcoming bodybuilding plans (2027, anyone?), prepping for our next show, and even a story about rescuing a stranded neighbor. As always, it’s raw, it’s real, and it’s all about keeping it honest with the people who support us.Appreciate y’all more than you know. Let’s keep moving forward—together.

Apr 30, 2025 • 34min
What It Takes to Compete In Natural Bodybuilding - Tips From A Bodybuilding Show Promoter
What does it really take to succeed in natural bodybuilding? In this powerful episode of the Savage Perspective Podcast with host Robert Sikes, we dive deep into the world of natural bodybuilding alongside guest Aaron Orton, a seasoned promoter and athlete. Episode 775 explores the unique challenges, opportunities, and rewards of competing as a natural bodybuilder while offering valuable insights for ambitious listeners working hard toward their own fitness and professional goals.Aaron shares his unmatched expertise, discussing the power of community in local posing classes, the legacy of the Cecil Phillips Classic, and the exciting changes coming to the 20th anniversary of his event. Learn how natural bodybuilding has grown into a dynamic sport focused on discipline, longevity, and fairness by emphasizing drug-free competition and rigorous judging standards. Throughout the episode, Aaron also highlights key lessons about balancing fitness with life, maintaining health, and inspiring others.Whether you’re looking to compete, excel in your career, or simply stay motivated, this episode is packed with invaluable advice on achieving success while prioritizing professional growth, personal balance, and long-term health. Don’t miss this engaging conversation featuring real stories from the world of natural bodybuilding!Follow Aaron on IG: https://www.instagram.com/aaron.orton/Register For My FREE Masterclass: https://www.ketobodybuilding.com/registration-2Get Keto Brick: https://www.ketobrick.com/Subscribe to the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/42cjJssghqD01bdWBxRYEg?si=1XYKmPXmR4eKw2O9gGCEuQChapters:0:00 Intro - Celebrating Natural Bodybuilding1:56 April Classes - 30 Competitors Unite5:27 Honoring the Cecil Phillips Classic7:19 Big Changes for the 20th Anniversary11:08 Compete for Pro Cards13:02 New Natural Competitions in the Northwest16:45 Cross-Federation Competition Builds Community18:24 Men’s Physique Meets Bodybuilding21:44 Boost Productivity with Fitness23:28 Fulfillment Through Supporting Others26:55 Long-Term Health and Lifestyle Tips28:31 Balancing Fitness, Family, and Fun31:53 Upcoming Show and Guest Posing33:23 Stronger Relationships in Bodybuilding

Apr 28, 2025 • 1h
Fasting Myths BUSTED: How to Lose Weight Without Extreme Dieting
Discover how to lose weight, optimize your health, and break free from misleading fasting myths in this eye-opening episode of the Savage Perspective Podcast! Host Robert Sikes sits down with guest Dani Conway to dive deep into the truth about fasting, weight loss, and building a healthier, more balanced lifestyle, without resorting to extreme dieting. Episode 774 will challenge what you think you know about health and fitness.Dani sheds light on why extended fasting may not be the answer for hormone balance and how proper nutrition is key to achieving your goals. Tune in as they explore cutting-edge strategies in coaching, including personalized hormone therapy and the revolutionary use of peptides for improving brain health, reducing inflammation, and boosting fat loss. Robert and Dani also tackle common mistakes like under-eating, misunderstandings about metabolism, and over-reliance on trendy diets like keto and carnivore without focusing on sustainability.This episode is packed with actionable advice tailored for ambitious professionals like CEOs, entrepreneurs, athletes, and coaches, striving to maximize their performance without sacrificing health or work-life balance. Whether you’re looking to enhance your training, improve recovery, or better understand your unique health needs, this conversation will leave you inspired to take smarter steps toward long-term success.Stop chasing fad diets and find out how to reach your goals with practical, sustainable methods. Tune in now for a fresh perspective you won’t want to miss!Follow Dani on IG: https://www.instagram.com/carnivore.keto.fitness/Register For My FREE Masterclass: https://www.ketobodybuilding.com/registration-2Get Keto Brick: https://www.ketobrick.com/Subscribe to the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/42cjJssghqD01bdWBxRYEg?si=1XYKmPXmR4eKw2O9gGCEuQChapters:0:00 Why extended fasting isn’t necessary for weight loss1:57 Coaching’s future: Beyond keto and carnivore diets6:07 Personalizing hormone therapy for better results8:20 Hormone therapy: Avoiding dosing mistakes12:24 GLP peptides: Brain health and inflammation benefits14:38 Microdosing peptides for weight loss and balance18:43 Risks of under-eating: Protect your metabolism20:43 Gut health and pre-existing issues explained24:33 Cortisol testing and cellular health tips26:27 Healing vs. weight loss: Finding the balance30:02 Carnivore diet: Why fasting isn’t for everyone31:43 Intuitive eating beats excessive fasting35:16 Women can fast and build muscle effectively36:59 Weight training over cardio for better results40:43 Minimized cardio boosts weight training42:26 Avoiding overtraining with proper recovery46:00 How to spot and fix overtraining47:43 Food tracking for intuitive eating success51:20 Calorie mistakes that drain your energy53:10 Balancing food quality and calories56:40 Dani Conway: Her fitness and riding routine58:34 Weight training improves riding performance

Apr 23, 2025 • 56min
Tailor Your Workouts, Diet, and Sleep to Slow Aging & Boost Longevity
Discover how to slow aging, feel younger, and boost your longevity in ways you never thought possible. In this eye-opening episode of the Savage Perspective Podcast, host Robert Sikes dives deep with special guest Dr. Jeffrey Gladden in Episode 773 to explore how tailoring your workouts, diet, and sleep can drastically change your health and future vitality.Learn how factors like heart rate variability, personalized nutrition, and a focused mindset can shape a healthier, younger you. This conversation uncovers the science of aging, the hidden impact of stress on your body, and why your nervous system and recovery play a crucial role in your energy and longevity. Dr. Gladden also shares insights on understanding what your body truly needs, from avoiding processed foods to optimizing sleep and making meditation a key part of your routine.If you're ambitious, driven, and ready to stay ahead in your fitness, career, and health, this episode will completely shift how you think about aging and performance. Don't miss this inspiring and transformative discussion!Follow Dr. Gladden on IG: https://www.instagram.com/gladdenlongevity/Register For My FREE Masterclass: https://www.ketobodybuilding.com/registration-2Get Keto Brick: https://www.ketobrick.com/Subscribe to the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/42cjJssghqD01bdWBxRYEg?si=1XYKmPXmR4eKw2O9gGCEuQChapters:0:00 Secrets to Longevity3:01 How Aging Really Works6:08 Mindset for Peak Health7:55 The Cost of Ignoring Health12:00 Purpose Equals Longevity14:00 Aging Speeds Up Over Time18:06 Immune Boosting Mindset20:00 Power of Deep Meditation23:50 Purpose Unlocks Happiness25:41 Healing Chronic Issues Fast29:03 Nervous System Health Tips30:45 Sleep & Fitness Hacks34:10 Fitness & HRV Explained36:07 Personalized Nutrition Tips39:50 Redefine Aging41:34 Feel 25 Again44:57 Future of Anti-Aging46:45 Tech to Stop Aging50:16 Why Longer Lives Matter52:08 Social Media Destroys Connection55:36 Explore Gladden Longevity

Apr 21, 2025 • 58min
STOP Using Cheap Red Light Panels! Here’s What Actually Works
STOP wasting time and money on cheap red light panels that don't actually work! In episode 772 of the Savage Perspective Podcast, host Robert Sikes sits down with Forrest Smith, an expert in red light therapy, to uncover the science, benefits, and pitfalls of using red light for health and fitness. They reveal why most red light panels fail and dive deep into the advanced technology and techniques that really make a difference. If you’ve ever struggled with chronic inflammation, pain from old injuries, or poor recovery, this episode will blow your mind.Discover how red light therapy enhances blood flow, speeds up healing, and supports total-body recovery—especially for those leading high-performance, demanding lives. Forrest and Robert discuss how deeper tissues respond differently to specific wavelengths like red light vs. infrared and how consistency plays a vital role in getting results. The conversation also explores groundbreaking research into gut and brain health, plus the role nitric oxide plays in improving energy, mood, and cardiovascular health.Whether you're a high-achieving entrepreneur, an athlete tackling chronic injuries, or someone prioritizing personal development and wellness, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Learn the truth about cheap panels, why advanced devices make all the difference, and how light therapy is reshaping lives!Follow Forrest on IG: https://www.instagram.com/smithforresto/Register For My FREE Masterclass: https://www.ketobodybuilding.com/registration-2Get Keto Brick: https://www.ketobrick.com/Subscribe to the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/42cjJssghqD01bdWBxRYEg?si=1XYKmPXmR4eKw2O9gGCEuQChapters:00:00 - Why cheap red light panels don't work 01:49 - Starting a mission-driven business in China 05:33 - Healthier solutions over medication for inflammation 07:41 - Red light therapy helps athletes with old injuries 11:39 - The problem with cheap red light panels 13:55 - Why infrared penetrates deeper than LEDs 17:37 - How using red light daily improves health 19:05 - Nitric oxide boosts blood flow and heart health 22:29 - Red light improves oxygen delivery and energy 24:28 - Better energy by improving ATP and mitochondria 27:51 - Protecting skin from UV with light therapy 29:41 - Red light works for skin; infrared for deeper tissue 33:03 - Daily therapy cuts inflammation and heals faster 34:35 - Pain relief from inflammation vs mechanical issues 37:57 - Red light improves gut and brain health 39:21 - Gut health and red light: safe and effective 42:28 - Light therapy and nutrients for women's hormones 44:11 - Using red light for better workouts and recovery 47:24 - NASA's research on healing with light therapy 48:49 - Creating a legacy brand for better health 51:43 - Ego hurts growth; listen to others to improve 53:14 - Routines for focus and energy with ADHD tools 56:20 - Training kids with bio-modulation and fun challenges 57:34 - How KINEON tests red light therapy tech

Apr 18, 2025 • 35min
The Work Podcast - Our Fave People
In this one, we talk training, team updates, and how much we appreciate the folks who support us. I just wrapped up a brutal 20-mile march to qualify for the 50-miler later this year—feet are wrecked, but we made it. We also launched our tallow Cookie Dough flavor this weekend… and it sold out in 24 minutes! Wild.We break down the three kinds of customers we hear from during launches and why we're going all-in on a new loyalty program to show some love to the folks who've been with us since day one.On the creative side, we're redesigning the apparel website, learning the ins and outs of paid advertising, and planning some ad content that's actually fun to watch. We also get into regenerative farming, tiers of nutrition, and what it really means to know where your food comes from.Register For My FREE Masterclass: https://www.ketobodybuilding.com/registration-2Get Keto Brick: https://www.ketobrick.com/Subscribe to the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/42cjJssghqD01bdWBxRYEg?si=1XYKmPXmR4eKw2O9gGCEuQGreg Mahler is also a lifetime natural bodybuilder, and can be followed on InstagramWalked 20 miles to qualify for the 50-mile marchTallow cookie dough flavor sold out in just 24 minutesBroke down the 3 types of customers we hear from during launchesAnnounced a new Keto Brick loyalty program (in progress!)Apparel website is getting a full refreshWe're learning paid ads from scratch to get sharper with contentShoutout to a local regenerative farmer doing it rightLaid out the 4 tiers of nutrition, from fast food to full food transparencyCanceled the spring retreat to stay home with Crystal before baby #2Brainstorming new ad videos with personality, value, and humor

Apr 16, 2025 • 49min
What Endurance Athletes NEED to Know About Fueling: The Ultimate Pre-Run Plan
What if you could fuel your body to run longer, recover faster, and crush your endurance goals? In this episode of the Savage Perspective Podcast, host Robert Sikes dives deep into the science and strategy behind fueling for endurance with special guest Cameron Schuler, an expert in nutrition and performance. Whether you're training for your first marathon or you're a seasoned runner looking for that ultimate edge, this conversation is packed with insights that will change how you approach every run.Together, Robert and Cameron dissect the power of pre-run nutrition, hydration, and energy management. They break down what endurance athletes often get wrong and highlight how small tweaks in your nutrition plan can lead to massive improvements in your stamina and overall performance. From understanding the right macronutrient balance to avoiding the common pitfalls of carb-loading, they leave no stone unturned.Episode 771 is a must-watch if you're serious about taking your endurance training to that place where focus, discipline, and strategy come together.Register For My FREE Masterclass: https://www.ketobodybuilding.com/registration-2Get Keto Brick: https://www.ketobrick.com/Subscribe to the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/42cjJssghqD01bdWBxRYEg?si=1XYKmPXmR4eKw2O9gGCEuQChapters:0:00 Marathon Success: Practice & Nutrition Tips0:55 Test Nutrition Before Race Day2:15 Collagen's Rise in Fitness4:10 Marathon Without Training? Mistake!5:50 Weekly Prep for Boston Marathon7:35 Running Groups Keep You Motivated9:15 Strength Training + Running = Results11:21 Game-Changing Running Shoe Tech13:16 Footwear Tips for Injury-Free Runs15:05 Collagen Saved My Running Journey16:40 Building Vital: From Idea to Success18:40 Work-Life Balance for Busy Lives20:13 Marketing Secrets for Endurance Brands22:15 Best Supplements for Runners24:35 Safer Training: Certified Products26:01 Morning Routine: Coffee & Recovery28:25 Epic 340-Mile Relay Race30:10 Electrolyte Balance for Peak Performance33:38 Vegan Nutrition: Avoid These Mistakes35:40 Community Builds Lasting Brands38:10 Risks Create Opportunities40:45 Timing + Teamwork Beat Luck43:15 Prepping for Boston & Nashville Marathons45:00 Final Thoughts: Process Over Goals