E. 58 What REALLY Matters For Building Muscle and Losing Fat
In this episode, I dive into strategies for prioritizing fitness goals, particularly during challenging phases like the holidays. From identifying critical tasks to avoiding distractions, I provide actionable steps for listeners aiming to optimize their fitness journeys. With relatable examples and practical advice, this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating their fitness priorities and seeking tangible results.
Timestamps:
- [00:00:00] - Introduction: Show gratitude for listeners and announcement of upcoming content.
- [00:02:03] - Personal update: Challenges with health and recovery progress.
- [00:04:08] - Balancing indulgence and discipline.
- [00:05:19] - Key concept: Focusing on the most critical tasks for success.
- [00:07:07] - Prioritization frameworks: ABCs and the Eisenhower Matrix.
- [00:08:24] - Breaking down tasks: Diet, training, and recovery essentials.
- [00:10:14] - Identifying adherence versus non-adherence in fitness practices.
- [00:12:16] - Urgent vs. non-urgent tasks: When to act and when to plan.
- [00:15:15] - Avoiding distractions: The impact of social media on progress.
- [00:18:04] - Setting realistic expectations for recreational and competitive athletes.
- [00:22:23] - Committing to phases: Fat loss vs. muscle building.
- [00:27:59] - Accountability in fitness: Weekly check-ins and progress tracking.
- [00:31:10] - Eliminating barriers to muscle building: Addressing mindset and adherence.
- [00:36:13] - Targeting key problems: Customizing plans for individual progress.
- [00:39:00] - Learning from unmet goals: Constructive debriefing strategies.
- [00:41:02] - Avoiding wasted effort: Course correcting to optimize progress.
- [00:42:06] - Closing thoughts: Reiterating the importance of the big four levers in fitness.
Links & Resources:
https://coryfit.com/
Coaching: Let's Chat
https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15min
Consults: Book a Call
https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultation
For 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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42:13
E. 57 How Your Thyroid Impacts Your Weight
In this episode, I dive deep into the critical role of thyroid health in fat loss and athletic performance. From understanding the basic functions of T3 and T4 hormones to exploring the connections between thyroid function, gut health, and metabolism, I provide a comprehensive guide. This episode also addresses the impact of stress, nutrient deficiencies, and hormonal imbalances on thyroid function, offering actionable strategies for optimizing thyroid health, whether you're a competitive athlete or on a personal fitness journey.
Timestamps:
- [00:00:00] - Reflections on the podcast’s growth and audience engagement.
- [00:01:42] - The critical role of thyroid health in fat loss.
- [00:02:30] - Understanding T3 and T4 hormones and their balance.
- [00:05:14] - Symptoms of thyroid dysfunction (low energy, brain fog, weight gain/loss).
- [00:06:00] - Gut health and its impact on thyroid function.
- [00:09:20] - The relationship between HPA axis and thyroid regulation.
- [00:15:00] - Nutritional strategies to improve thyroid and gut health.
- [00:20:00] - Lifestyle changes to reduce stress and support thyroid health.
- [00:27:00] - Understanding thyroid lab markers and their significance.
- [00:32:00] - Autoimmune thyroid conditions like Hashimoto’s and Graves’ disease.
- [00:38:00] - How stress and calorie deficits affect thyroid function.
- [00:44:00] - Using exogenous thyroid hormone in competitive prep phases.
- [00:48:00] - Long-term safety and recovery from thyroid hormone therapy.
- [00:52:00] - Managing estrogen dominance and its impact on thyroid health.
- [01:00:00] - Importance of thyroid health in achieving peak performance.
Links & Resources:
https://coryfit.com/
Coaching: Let's Chat
https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15min
Consults: Book a Call
https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultation
For 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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1:01:40
E. 56 Austin Current: Mastering Strength Training and Longevity
In this episode of the Self Selecting Podcast, I chat with fitness expert, author, and educator Austin Current. Austin shares his journey from discovering weightlifting as a pre-teen to becoming a professional bodybuilder and renowned trainer. He discusses the intersection of science and strength training, the importance of tailored coaching, and strategies for fostering longevity in fitness. Packed with insights for fitness enthusiasts and trainers alike, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in personal growth, strength training, and professional development.
Timestamps:
- [00:00] - Intro and opening remarks.
- [01:17] - Austin’s introduction to fitness at 11 – learning from an overqualified coach and early exposure to weightlifting.
- [03:09] - The journey through competitive bodybuilding – turning professional at 20 and experiences with IFBB.
- [08:03] - The foundation of Austin’s training philosophy.
- [10:48] - The importance of in-person training experience for becoming an effective coach.
- [13:46] - Tailoring training programs – fatigue management, psychological barriers, and adapting for diverse clients.
- [18:25] - The role of efficiency and redundancy in training.
- [22:14] - Balancing orthopedic health and hypertrophy in training design.
- [25:01] - How to strip back unnecessary elements in training to improve recovery and sustainability.
- [30:40] - Live to train another day – Austin’s mantra for longevity in fitness and navigating pre-competition prep.
- [36:56] - The art of balancing intensity and recovery during prep.
- [41:00] - Understanding RPE (Rate of Perceived Exertion) and how to gauge effort for optimal results.
- [47:51] - The role of recovery – how good programming outweighs gadgets and gimmicks in managing recovery.
- [52:36] - Balancing volume, frequency, and intensity for lower-body training.
- [1:00:29] - Using RPE and reps-in-reserve to inform progression.
- [1:05:58] - Adjusting programs for longevity – the psychological and physical nuances of sustainable training.
- [1:10:12] - Restorative sessions and connection-focused training.
- [1:14:50] - Integrating psychological and physical balance into training for prep and beyond.
- [1:22:01] - Closing remarks and where to find Austin online.
Links & Resources:
Follow Austin Current on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austincurrent_/?hl=en
Buy Austin's Book, "The Science of Strength Training": https://a.co/d/a15zxur
Work With Austin: https://lcnhy0dajv6.typeform.com/to/oHHa6UYI?typeform-source=l.instagram.com
https://coryfit.com/
Coaching: Let's Chat
https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15min
Consults: Book a Call
https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultation
For 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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1:23:58
E. 55 How To Become an IFBB BIKINI PRO ATHLETE in 2025
In this insightful episode, I dive into the intricate journey of becoming a bikini pro in bodybuilding. I offer a comprehensive breakdown of the physical, mental, and strategic elements required to excel in the sport. Whether you're just starting or looking to elevate your competitive edge, this episode is packed with actionable advice and insider tips.
Timestamps:
- [00:00:00] - Cory introduces the topic and debunks common misconceptions about becoming a bikini pro.
- [00:02:20] - Why setting clear, actionable goals is critical for success in bodybuilding competitions.
- [00:05:00] - The five key areas to evaluate: shape, muscular development, condition, presentation, and longevity.
- [00:07:30] - How the ideal "hourglass figure" is evaluated and why structural factors play a major role.
- [00:12:15] - Tips on achieving balanced muscularity while maintaining femininity.
- [00:17:00] - The impact of body fat distribution and conditioning on overall presentation.
- [00:21:10] - Why posing, hair, makeup, and stage presence are essential to standing out in competition.
- [00:25:45] The importance of health, mental resilience, and sustainability in the sport.
- [00:29:40] - How to handle critiques constructively and use them to improve.
- [00:33:50] - Managing post-competition emotions and maintaining a healthy mindset.
- [00:38:10] - Why consistent practice and preparation make a significant difference.
- [00:42:05] - Budget-friendly tips for suits, makeup, and other stage essentials.
- [00:45:30] - How to embrace setbacks and develop a champion's mindset.
- [00:48:10] - Final advice on maximizing potential and enjoying the journey.
- [00:50:30] - Cory reflects on her journey and encourages listeners to take pride in their progress.
Links & Resources:
https://coryfit.com/
Coaching: Let's Chat
https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15min
Consults: Book a Call
https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultation
For 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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51:12
E. 54 How To Stay On Track and Prevent Self-Sabotage
In this episode of the Self-Selecting Podcast, I dive deep into the crucial concept of "adherence" — what it really means, why it’s so hard to master, and practical steps you can take to overcome non-adherence in your fitness, nutrition, and personal growth journeys. I draw on client experiences, personal anecdotes, and industry wisdom to highlight how you can shift your mindset, build stronger habits, and ultimately, take ownership of your goals.
Timestamps:
- [00:00:00] - Welcome & episode introduction.
- [00:01:08] - The importance of recognizing mistakes without guilt or shame and how taking ownership leads to growth.
- [00:02:15] - Common rationalizations and excuses people make to justify poor decisions.
- [00:04:30] - The significance of honesty with oneself about adherence and how even small deviations can add up over time.
- [00:06:04] - Case Study: Client story about misreporting dietary deviations, emphasizing the importance of clarity and self-accountability.
- [00:08:00] - Exploring the difference between mistakes and deliberate choices that derail progress.
- [00:10:34] - Why flexibility in meal planning can be helpful but also dangerous if misapplied.
- [00:12:11] - Identifying triggers for non-adherence.
- [00:14:19] - How emotional responses to stress and social comments can push people toward non-adherence.
- [00:17:42] - How boredom often masquerades as hunger and how to reinforce mental discipline by connecting actions to larger goals.
- [00:20:06] - The power of taking control of decisions and how agency impacts long-term adherence.
- [00:22:43] - How to stay on track while traveling and the consequences of mismanaging food intake on trips.
- [00:25:00] - The clinical definition of adherence and its relevance to the coaching space.
- [00:29:13] - The psychological role of "buy-in."
- [00:32:34] - Tips on how to control your environment to support adherence.
- [00:35:17] - Reframing adherence through language.
- [00:38:38] - Dealing with social pressures during holidays.
- [00:42:42] - Should you indulge in "cheat meals"?
- [00:45:50] - The psychological roots of self-sabotage and how to recognize when it’s happening.
- [00:50:00] - Final reflections on how to reframe adherence, set clear goals, and ensure alignment between daily actions and long-term success.
Links and Resources:
https://coryfit.com/
Coaching: Let's Chat
https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15min
Consults: Book a Call
https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultation
For 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