Barbell Shrugged

New episode every Wednesday! Join the Barbell Shrugged crew in conversations about fitness, training, and frequent interviews w/ CrossFit Games athletes!

Physiology Friday: [Optimal Bodyweight] How to Live Lean Without Bodyweight Fluctuations w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, Coach Travis Mash and Dan Garner Barbell Shrugged

In this Episode of Barbell Shrugged: Why maintaining a healthy bodyweight is so hard Why health is the key ingredient to maintaining a healthy weight The myth that you cannot build muscle and lose fat the same time  The importance of feeding your lean body The mental and emotional benefits of maintaining a health weight Connect with our guests: Anders Varner on Instagram Doug Larson on Instagram Coach Travis Mash on Instagram Dan Garner on Instagram

11-15
59:38

The Future of Human Performance Technology w/ Dr. Andy Galpin, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #772

Andy Galpin, PhD, is the Executive Director of the Human Performance Center at Parker University. He is the Co-Director of the Center for Sport Performance and Founder/Director of the Biochemistry and Molecular Exercise Physiology Laboratory. He is a Human Performance scientist with a PhD in Human Bioenergetics and over 100 peer-reviewed publications and presentations. Dr. Galpin has worked with elite athletes (including All-Star, All-Pro, MVP, Cy Young, Olympic Gold medalists, Major winners, World titlist/ contenders, etc.) across the UFC, MLB, NBA, PGA, NFL, Boxing, Olympics, and Military/Special Forces, and more. He is also a Co-founder of Vitality Blueprint, Absolute Rest, BioMolecular Athlete, and RAPID Health & Performance.   Work with RAPID Health Optimization Links: Dr. Andy Galpin Website Anders Varner on Instagram Doug Larson on Instagram Coach Travis Mash on Instagram

11-13
52:03

Physiology Friday: [Gut Health] The Epicenter of Health Optimization w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, Coach Travis Mash and Dan Garner Barbell Shrugged

In this Episode of Barbell Shrugged: Why the gut is so important for optimal health. What causes poor gut health and how to avoid it How important is a stool sample to find potential hidden stressors What your poop can tell you about your health Ways to improve gut health Connect with our guests: Anders Varner on Instagram Doug Larson on Instagram Coach Travis Mash on Instagram Dan Garner on Instagram

11-08
44:43

Cortisol, Mold Exposure, and Gut Health w/ Lacey Dunn, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, Coach Travis Mash #771

Lacey Dunn is a functional medicine dietitian with a fiery passion for helping women feel and look their very best! People call her their “Hormone Fairy Godmother” as my one mission in life is to help women go from surviving to thriving. Dunn has an obsession for all things hormones, thyroid, gut, and metabolism. Aka - a nerd. Dunn says her job is to help people like you to reclaim their health, hormones, and become the master of their own bodies. I am committed to help my clients take their life back into their control. As a functional medicine dietitian, Dunn is passionate about helping women because she has been in the trenches of hormonal chaos herself. Before discovering functional medicine, she was burnt out. Her hypothyroidism and cortisol issues left her suffering with chronic fatigue, random weight gain, hair loss, anxiety, and depression. Dunn had primary ammennrohea until age 25 (aka no menstrual cycle), and was left frustrated and confused. Her years of bodybuilding and weight training were no longer showing in her physique and she felt like she was hit by a truck on a daily basis. Conventional doctors would not listen so Dunn listened to herself. Dunn found (and treated) her own hypothyroidism and got her period finally, naturally. She became my own health advocate. Lacey’s best-selling book “The Women’s Guide to Hormonal Harmony” which is available on Amazon gives women the knowledge, tools, and confidence to rebalance your hormones, master your metabolism, and become the boss of your own body. I am very thankful to have been featured in top media outlets, such as TIME magazine, Forbes, US News, Eat This Not That, Popsugar, Health, Well + Good, 30 seconds, Bodybuilding.com, and Paste Magazine! My goals as a dietitian are to give people like you the tools, confidence, and knowledge to take your health back into your own hands and be the master of your body and life! Work with RAPID Health Optimization   Links: Lacey Dunn on Instagram Work With Lacey Anders Varner on Instagram Doug Larson on Instagram Coach Travis Mash on Instagram

11-06
52:06

Physiology Friday: [Hydration] Salt, Water, Magnesium and Health Optimization w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, Coach Travis Mash and Dan Garner Barbell Shrugged

In this Episode of Barbell Shrugged: The optimal amount of water you need to drink in a day. The role of salt in optimal hydration Why your drinking a ton of water and still dehydrated Why dehydration is killing your progress in the gym Proper hydration and supplementation protocol Connect with our guests: Anders Varner on Instagram Doug Larson on Instagram Coach Travis Mash on Instagram Dan Garner on Instagram

11-01
49:12

How to Naturally Increase Testosterone by 300% w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, Coach Travis Mash, Dan Garner, and Dr. Andy Galpin

This week on Barbell Shrugged we are throwing it back to the first show where we met Dan Garner. We take the deep dive into strategies for naturally boosting testosterone levels. Key topics discussed include the importance of creating a comprehensive health profile with blood work, stool, urine, and saliva, which together offer a full picture of an individual's hormonal and metabolic state. By identifying micronutrient deficiencies and other physiological markers, these health professionals aim to address factors that directly impact testosterone production and overall vitality. The hosts discuss how maintaining a healthy body composition is crucial, as excess body fat can convert testosterone into estrogen, which impacts hormone balance. Additionally, managing stress levels and lowering cortisol—known to inhibit testosterone production—is emphasized. The episode also delves into how specific dietary adjustments and targeted supplements can help, along with psychological factors like confidence, which can positively influence testosterone levels. Work with RAPID Health Optimization Links: Dan Garner on Instagram Dr. Andy Galpin on Instagram Anders Varner on Instagram Doug Larson on Instagram Coach Travis Mash on Instagram

10-30
01:49:18

Physiology Friday: [Cortisol] The Science and Function of the Stress Hormone w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, Coach Travis Mash and Dan Garner Barbell Shrugged

In this Episode of Barbell Shrugged: Understanding the stress response system What is the function of cortisol Why you struggle adapting to stress The myth of adrenal fatigue The difference between chronic and acute stress on your physiology Connect with our guests: Anders Varner on Instagram Doug Larson on Instagram Coach Travis Mash on Instagram Dan Garner on Instagram

10-25
48:53

How to Regain Speed and Power to Build Athleticism w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Coach Travis Mash #770

On this episode of Barbell Shrugged, we’re diving into the keys for regaining speed and power—whether you’re coming off an injury, a long layoff, or just looking to level up your performance. Speed and power are foundational for athleticism, and they require a smart approach to rebuild. We’ll explore the science behind explosiveness, focusing on neural adaptations, muscle fiber recruitment, and how to maximize your fast-twitch capabilities. We’ll break down the importance of proper recovery, which is often overlooked but critical for regaining speed. You’ll learn about the best exercises to activate your central nervous system and enhance your power output, including plyometrics, sprints, and Olympic lifts. The podcast will cover progressive programming, designed to gradually increase intensity without overloading your body. We’ll also talk about mindset, discussing how to stay patient during the process and the role of consistency in your training. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just trying to get back into peak form, this episode will provide actionable insights to help you regain your speed and power faster than you thought possible. Work with RAPID Health Optimization Links: Anders Varner on Instagram Doug Larson on Instagram Coach Travis Mash on Instagram

10-23
48:49

Physiology Friday: [Micronutrients] Why Calories and Macros Are Not Enough for Health Optimization w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, Coach Travis Mash and Dan Garner Barbell Shrugged

In this episode of Barbell Shrugged: Why micronutrients are the base of all chemical and hormonal reactions in the body Why micronutrients are responsible for total health and how good you feel Why micronutrients are overlooked and how this is detrimental to your health How do you know you are getting optimal micronutrients in your diet What your health is missing if you only track your macros Connect with our guests: Anders Varner on Instagram Doug Larson on Instagram Coach Travis Mash on Instagram Dan Garner on Instagram

10-18
52:18

Practical Differences in Weight Training for Strength or Hypertrophy w/ Dr. Allan Bacon, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Coach Travis Mash #769

Dr. Allan Bacon holds a Doctorate in Dental Surgery from the University of Maryland. He is a certified personal trainer through the National Academy of Sports Medicine, a certified nutritionist & physique/bodybuilding coach, a certified coach for USA Powerlifting, and has formulated professionally for industry-leading dietary supplement companies for over 15 years. You can find Allan’s written works in Muscle & Fitness, Sci-Fit, the Alan Aragon Research Review, The Personal Trainer Development Center, and more. His practice focuses on helping working adults master their physique, performance, mindset, and habits for lifelong, sustainable results. Work with RAPID Health Optimization Links: Work with Dr. Allan Bacon MauiAthletics.com Dr. Allan Bacon on Instagram Anders Varner on Instagram Doug Larson on Instagram Coach Travis Mash on Instagram  

10-16
55:52

Physiology Friday: [Testosterone] How to Naturally Optimize Testosterone Without Drugs, Doctors, and Destructive Diets w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, Coach Travis Mash and Dan Garner Barbell Shrugged

In this Episode of Barbell Shrugged: The role of testosterone in health and performance How micronutrient deficiencies can lead to sub-optimal testosterone levels How excess body fat turns testosterone into estrogen The relationship between cortisol and testosterone Practical advice on how to optimize your testosterone levels Connect with our guests: Anders Varner on Instagram Doug Larson on Instagram Coach Travis Mash on Instagram Dan Garner on Instagram

10-11
57:27

The Midlife Male w/ Greg Schienman, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Coach Travis Mash #768

Serial Entrepreneur - Greg Scheinman has had not one but two seven-figure exits. He is a former partner at Insgroup, acquired by BRP (NASDAQ) and the founder and former CEO of Team Baby Entertainment, acquired by Michael Eisner of Disney. He was also the founder and CEO of ROW Studios, producer of two successful feature films, and advisor to multiple CPG brands. He is now the Founder & Face of Midlife Male, the premier digital media platform for middle aged men and the brands that want to reach them. Investor & Brand Ambassador - Greg is an investor in Huron, LMNT, Hone Health, MUDITA and Dish Society, and a brand ambassador for Rhone, Athletic Greens, Sunlighten Saunas, The Cold Plunge, HYDROW, CLIMBR and InsideTracker. Podcaster & Writer - Greg’s podcast The Midlife Male includes interviews with some of the world’s top performers, and is one of the most highly rated podcasts in the world. His weekly Midlife Male Newsletter has earned over 10,000 subscribers. Trusted Coach - Greg has coached more than 100 individuals, executives, and teams and helped them go from mediocre to maximized personally and professionally — from brand-new startups to massive organizations and most importantly for themselves. Work with RAPID Health Optimization Links: Subscribe to Midlife Male Newsletter https://midlifemale.beehiiv.com/ For Coaching & Speaking GregScheinman.com The Midlife Male Website & Podcast Midlifemale.com Follow on Instagram @gregscheinman Anders Varner on Instagram Doug Larson on Instagram Coach Travis Mash on Instagram

10-09
47:05

Travis Mash Joins the Rapid Health and Performance Team w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Coach Travis Mash #767

In today’s episode of Barbell Shrugged we introduce our newest coach at RAPID Health Optimization, the one and only, Travis Mash. Travis Mash’s first appearance on Barbell Shrugged dates back 8 years ago. He became a co-host in 2019. And finally, we have found the right opportunity to unite forces and we are fired up. Mash will lead strength and conditioning coaching for our professional athletes, utilizing decades of experience with players across the NFL, Team USA, UFC, and Boxing. Game on. Work with RAPID Health Optimization Anders Varner on Instagram Doug Larson on Instagram Coach Travis Mash on Instagram

10-02
48:56

Physiology Friday: [Physique Transformation] How Hormones Help Build Muscle and Burn Fat w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, Coach Travis Mash and Dan Garner Barbell Shrugged

In this Episode of Barbell Shrugged: The relationship between testosterone and cortisol The relationship between calories, macronutrients, and micronutrients Why micronutrients matter for achieving a lean physique Optimal hormone ratios for physique transformation  How does menstrual cycle affect performance Understanding gut health and it’s affects on physique Stabilizing hormones as a sign of health Connect with our guests: Anders Varner on Instagram Doug Larson on Instagram Coach Travis Mash on Instagram Dan Garner on Instagram

09-27
48:18

[Muscle Medicine] Fueling Your Body For Optimal Health w/ Julia Mitchell, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Coach Travis Mash #766

Julia Mitchell is a functional nutritionist, bison rancher, and mother of two boys. She combines expertise in Muscle-Centric Medicine®, regenerative agriculture, nutrient density, and food quality to provide personalized nutrition and wellness solutions. She is passionate about helping individuals achieve optimal health, which involves sourcing and consuming the highest quality food, including grass-fed animal proteins and other foods that improve body composition and longevity while building soil and improving land quality. Alongside her husband, she raises grass-fed bison in Alberta, practicing and promoting regenerative practices and land stewardship Work with RAPID Health Optimization Work with Julia: Website Follow Julia on Instagram Anders Varner on Instagram Doug Larson on Instagram Coach Travis Mash on Instagram

09-25
01:05:50

[Physiology First] A Curriculum for Mental and Physical Health w/ David Bidler, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Coach Travis Mash #765

David Bidler is the President of Physiology First-an organization dedicated to teaching the science of health and human potential to youth and families around the world. Through partnerships with schools, free programs for youth, and the online Physiology First University platform David and his team are dedicated to creating a revolution in health education for the next generation. Physiology First built their flagship campus for community health and fitness education in Freeport, Maine in 2019. Physiology First is preparing to launch their next campus in the town of Sale, U.K on September 7th! David and his team are training coaches, educators, and healthcare leaders around the world through the Physiology First Certification Program to bring the Physiology First Approach to their communities! Work with RAPID Health Optimization Work with Physiology First Physiology First on Instagram Anders Varner on Instagram Doug Larson on Instagram Coach Travis Mash on Instagram

09-18
58:03

Physiology Friday: [Hormone Dysfunction] Birth Control, TRT, HRT, and Toxicity w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, Coach Travis Mash and Dan Garner Barbell Shrugged

In this Episode of Barbell Shrugged: How Birth Control can reduce testosterone by 70% Birth controls affects on your physique How to pick the right birth control What are drug induced nutrient depletions  How to best handle menopause and andropause What happens when you do not have a cycle for 5+ years What is wrong with TRT and HRT How heavy metal and toxicity affect your hormones Connect with our guests: Anders Varner on Instagram Doug Larson on Instagram Coach Travis Mash on Instagram Dan Garner on Instagram

09-13
57:45

[Supplements] Separating Science from Snake Oil w/ Mike Matthews, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Coach Travis Mash #764

Mike Matthews is a certified personal trainer and bestselling author of Bigger Leaner Stronger, Thinner Leaner Stronger, and Muscle for Life, as well as the founder of the #1 brand of all-natural sports supplements, Legion. His simple and science-based approach to building muscle, losing fat, and getting healthy has helped tens of thousands of people build their best body ever, and his work has been featured in many popular outlets including Esquire, Men’s Health, Elle, Women’s Health, Muscle & Strength, and more, as well as on FOX and ABC. Work with RAPID Health Optimization Legion Supplements Mike Matthews on X Anders Varner on Instagram Doug Larson on Instagram Coach Travis Mash on Instagram  

09-11
57:11

Physiology Friday: [Mental Health] A 6 Step Approach Connecting Mind, Body, and Nutrition w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, Travis Mash and Dan Garner Barbell Shrugged

In today’s episode of Barbell Shrugged we cover: A framework for understanding mental health and physiology The relationship between the mind and the body How physiology follows psychology How to turn your thoughts into character traits How come prescriptions and medications can make mental health worse How sleep is the gateway to improving mental health Blood sugar management and how it affects mood Why broad solutions to improve mental health will not work Coaching the person before you coach their mental health issues Supplementation that positively affect mental health The process of creating and excreting dopamine and serotonin The impacts of B6 and Magnesium for mental health To learn more, please go to https://rapidhealthreport.com Connect with our guests: Anders Varner on Instagram Doug Larson on Instagram Coach Travis Mash on Instagram Dan Garner on Instagram  

09-06
01:00:51

[Sleep] Stress, Psychedelics, and Brain Health w/ Dr. Kirk Parsley, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Coach Travis Mash #763

Kirk Parsley served as an Undersea Medical Officer at Naval Special Warfare Group One from June 2009 to January 2013. While there, he led the development and supervised the group’s first Sports Medicine Rehabilitation center. He is a former SEAL, and received his Medical Degree from Bethesda, Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences (USUHS) in 2004. He interned in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Balboa Naval Hospital San Diego in 2005 and subsequently completed a Navy residency in Hyperbarics and Diving Medicine in 2006. Dr. Parsley has been a member of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine since 2006 and served as Naval Special Warfare’s expert on Sleep Medicine. In addition he is certified in hormonal modulation (Age-Management Medicine). After leaving the Navy he went into concierge medicine and consulting. He continues to consult for multiple corporations, and professional athletes/teams. Doctor Parsley lectures worldwide on sleep, wellness, and hormonal optimization and is currently completing a book on sleep and health optimization. His philosophy for wellness is simple; in order to optimize our health and get the most out of our bodies and minds, we must live more closely to the way we evolved as a species. He believes that many diseases and disorders that we accept as “inevitable” in modern society are unnecessary complications of poor sleeping habits, living in a toxic environment, eating foods we were not designed to digest, and allowing stress to overwhelm us. His passion is to help his patients and clients achieve the highest quality of life possible, and realize their health, performance, and longevity goals. Dr. Parsley spends as much of his spare time as possible with his wife Cindy, and his three beautiful children (Hayden, Cole, and Harper). He has been a competitive athlete his entire life, and enjoys nearly all outdoor activities and sports. Work with RAPID Health Optimization Work with Kirk Parsley Anders Varner on Instagram Doug Larson on Instagram

09-04
01:24:56

Emilia Gray

Thank you for sharing your experience, in order for this to work really well, it is also important to choose a cool manufacturer. I found the best for me here https://www.amazon.in/Prorganiq-Magnesium-All-Natural-Supplement-Stronger/dp/B09MN59QW4/

11-08 Reply

Reann Shaw

GSP was scared every time he walked out because he was smart, and because he CARED about the outcome. I always tell people that nerves/anxiety (within normal limits) and fear are perfectly normal and reasonable responses, and if harnessed can help you respond quickly and well to situations. Still going out and getting the job done is possible, and even ideal, providing YOU control the dialogue. (by being prepared and building confidence etc). Loved this chat!

09-28 Reply

Rem Motorol

I began my fitness journey with the immune system and eliminating the prescription train. Once we tune with our own bodies we get open to a massive data source, not everyone wants to do the work.

03-31 Reply

Rem Motorol

Truly thank you!!

03-31 Reply

Rem Motorol

THIS SAVES US!! THANKS GUYS!

03-31 Reply

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