Heavy Conversations

From childhood trauma and binge eating to global filmmaking and helping others heal — Ercell Ivanhoe Watson II lost over 200 pounds and found purpose on the other side. This is his story.A Nashville native, Ercell’s journey spans stand-up comedy, global documentary work, and deep personal transformation. From opening for legends like Tracy Morgan and Charlie Murphy to capturing overlooked voices across continents, his life has been defined by connection — not content.But behind the camera and the laughter was a man carrying pain. Once weighing over 400 pounds, Ercell used food to cope with trauma. That ended the day he chose to heal.In this raw, heart-first conversation, Ercell opens up about the Ground Zero Moment that changed everything, how faith and storytelling saved his life, and what it really takes to climb out of the darkest places.Now more than 200 pounds down, he's not just surviving — he's showing others how to find their way back, too.

Welcome back to Heavy Conversations, the podcast where we dive deep into the real stories behind health and transformation. Today, we’re joined by Eric, a family man who transformed his life, going from 450 pounds down to a healthy 210 with the help of Bariatric Surgery. In this episode, Eric shares the moment he decided to undergo Bariatric Surgery, his preparation for it, and what life—especially around food—was like in the early days after. We also explore how he discovered powerlifting with his son; we then share stories about the importance today as parents to teach healthy habits to kids in a world so different from the one we grew up in. Eleven years post-op, Eric opens up about the emotional challenges and beyond he faced without binge eating to include struggles with alcohol.  His thoughts on Ozempec and the lingering stigma around Bariatric Surgery Eric’s story is full of hard-won insights and inspiration for anyone working toward a healthier life. Support those that support us:   http://withinyoubrand.com code BUDDY for 10% off https://offers.wittmerrejuvenationclinic.com/wrc-new-patient-faqs-page https://www.instagram.com/russellbuddy/

Welcome back to “Heavy Conversations,” the podcast where we delve into powerful stories of health and weight loss journeys. Today, we’re excited to share the inspiring journey of Manuel, a man determined to reclaim his health and life from the grip of obesity. Losing your life to obesity is a tragic and avoidable circumstance many face today. Manuel’s story is one of resilience and transformation as he navigates a new career and embraces a growing family. Join us as we explore the steps Manuel is taking to achieve better health, the challenges he’s overcome, and the motivation driving his incredible journey. Whether you’re looking for inspiration or practical advice on your own health goals, this episode has something for you. Let’s dive in! Please support those that support us: http://withinyoubrand.com code BUDDY for 10% offhttps://offers.wittmerrejuvenationclinic.com/wrc-new-patient-faqs-pagehttps://www.instagram.com/russellbuddy/ Please take some time to check out more about Manuel: https://www.instagram.com/maestromuscle/

Welcome back to "Heavy Conversations," the podcast where we explore powerful health and weight loss journeys. Today, we have an incredibly inspiring story of transformation featuring Jordan Grahm. Once over 400lbs, Jordan has completely turned his life around, losing 200 pounds through dedicated diet and exercise. Jordan's passion for fitness and helping others has now led him to become a transformation coach, guiding others on their own journeys to better health. Join us as we discuss his incredible journey, the challenges he faced, and the strategies he used to achieve his goals. Whether you're seeking motivation or practical tips for your own health goals, this episode has something for you. Let's dive in! Support those that support us:   http://withinyoubrand.com code BUDDY for 10% off https://offers.wittmerrejuvenationclinic.com/wrc-new-patient-faqs-page https://www.instagram.com/russellbuddy/ Please take some time to check out more about Dominique: https://www.instagram.com/jordangrahm/

Welcome back to "Heavy Conversations," the podcast where we explore powerful health and weight loss journeys. Today, we have an inspiring story of transformation and family wellness from a dear friend of mine, Dominique.  A devoted mother who discovered taekwondo while helping her kids get in shape. Along the way, she faced her own health challenges, achieving remarkable weight loss over the past year. Join us as we discuss her journey, the impact of taekwondo, and the strategies she used to succeed. Whether you need motivation or practical tips for your own health goals, this episode has something for you. Let's dive in! Support those that support us:   http://withinyoubrand.com code BUDDY for 10% off https://offers.wittmerrejuvenationclinic.com/wrc-new-patient-faqs-page https://www.instagram.com/russellbuddy/ Please take some time to check out more about Dominique: https://www.instagram.com/domin1qu3/

Hey everyone, welcome back to the channel! Today, I have a truly special guest and an inspiring story to share with you. Meet my friend Gormy, a phenomenal individual who has lost an incredible 300 pounds. Gormy's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the meaning of "choose your hard." In this video, we dive deep into his transformation, the challenges he faced, and the invaluable lessons he's learned along the way. I had the privilege of having a meaningful conversation with Gormy, where he shared his wisdom and gave me some incredible advice for my own weight loss journey. So, sit back, get ready to be inspired, and let's get into it! Support those that support us: With In You Brand.com code BUDDY for 10% offhttps://withinyoubrand.com/ Wittmer Rejuvenation Clinic https://offers.wittmerrejuvenationclinic.com/wrc-new-patient-faqs-page RussellBuddy https://www.instagram.com/russellbuddy/ Please take some time to check out more about Gormy: https://www.instagram.com/gormygoesketo/ https://www.theketoroad.com/getting-started

Ben says he spent the first 24 years of his life as the poster child for a sedentary lifestyle and poor eating habits. Then, after a multitude of things all hit at the same time, he realized something needed to change.  Now after losing 155 pounds from his heaviest to lightest, putting on muscle through weightlifting, earning a purple belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and becoming a coach for others looking to do what he did, Ben says “these highlights don't touch the little day-to-day improvements that losing weight has brought me.” We had an honest and insightful conversation about losing weight, getting healthy, and what happens next, while sharing some struggles, lessons learned and tips along the way. Support those that support us:   With In You Brand.com code BUDDY for 10% off Frequently Asked Questions - Wittmer Rejuvenation Clinic Russellbuddy (@russellbuddy) • Instagram photos and videos Please take some time to check out more about Ben: Ben Phelps | Weight Loss & Fitness Coach (@ben.jitsu) • Instagram photos and videos 

I had the opportunity to sit down and have an honest conversation with my friend Brandon.  We talked about his journey to lose over 100 pounds.  His passion for powerlifting. The influence mentors have had in his life and much more. What fuels his motivation and much more. He’s a sincere man with a heart as big as himself.  I really believe listening to this podcast will offer insights and perspectives many can relate to.  I hope you enjoy in Please Support those that support us:   Within You (withinyoubrand.com) code BUDDY for 10% off https://offers.wittmerrejuvenationclinic.com/wrc-new-patient-faqs-page Russellbuddy (@russellbuddy) • Instagram photos and videos Brandon Smith (@dedicatedtononame) • Instagram photos and videos

When Nikki Aguayo started her weight loss journey at 730 lb, everything was hard. Faced with a diagnosis of only having a couple months to live due to her obesity.  Nikki embraced the motto of doing hard things and has naturally lost 350 lbs on her journey to better health.   I find Nikki to be an incredible inspiration.  Remember, It's never too late to improve your health and. It’s never too late to do hard things.

Heavy conversations are not easy to have.  Special thanks to my friend Shepard who was willing to have one with me.  Sheppard is a veteran, a father, a gamer, an entrepreneur and a podcaster. He shared a very relatable story about his health journey to date and his plans going forward.

Meet Block, 47 yr old armed guard. Bjj and Kali student. https://www.instagram.com/russellbuddy/ https://www.instagram.com/bigblockgamc/

Welcome back to another episode of Heavy Conversations. I had the pleasure of reconnecting with my friend Justin Watson. Justin is a husband, a father, a gamer, a powerlifter and much more. We had a great conversation about his journey to be less fat, and to get stronger and healthier along the way. Justin is a loving carefree man, but also a powerful competitor with a great story and really important insights to share. Not to even mention, that he’s ridiculously strong. I hope you enjoy listening to this and find something useful. Please like and share and all that good stuff Justin Watson (@dadlifeanddeadlifts) • Instagram photos and videos Russellbuddy (@russellbuddy) • Instagram photos and videos

Sean Mulroney is the youngest of 5 children, he was introduced to drugs and alcohol at age 6. By 13, he was an addict. In high school, he was an athlete in football and baseball. Once he kicked the drug habit, he replaced it with fast food. Combined with some medical issues and lymphedema taking over his life his weight topped out at 687. But now he’s lost 110 pounds, and he is taking it one day at a time, small steps, and he’s enjoying the journey. Sean always says he’s not where he wants to be, but he’s where he needs to be.https://www.instagram.com/iamseanmulroney/

Sean Mulroney is the youngest of 5 children, he was introduced to drugs and alcohol at age 6. By 13, he was an addict. In high school, he was an athlete in football and baseball. Once he kicked the drug habit, he replaced it with fast food. Combined with some medical issues and lymphedema taking over his life his weight topped out at 687. But now he’s lost 110 pounds, and he is taking it one day at a time, small steps, and he’s enjoying the journey. Sean always says he’s not where he wants to be, but he’s where he needs to be. Sean Mulroney (@iamseanmulroney) • Instagram photos and videos

Meet Billy

Brian is saving his own life with diet and exercise as he prepares for his first strongman competition.  We have a candid conversation about obesity and the changes that Brian has made and is still making to save himself from his obesity. https://www.instagram.com/brihurley86/ https://www.instagram.com/russellbuddy/

Hey buddies, welcome back.  On this episode of Heavy Conversations, I continue my discussion with Matt Hill.  Matt is a doctor, a powerlifter, a motivational speaker, a podcaster, a marathon runner, and a cancer survivor.  But mostly he’s a man on a mission to be impossible and to inspire those around him to do the same.    Matthew Hill (@impossible.performance) • Instagram photos and videos Russellbuddy (@russellbuddy) • Instagram photos and videos

Hey buddies! Wow, wow, wow, how cool is this?  I have known Matt as an IG buddy for quite a few months now. As luck would have it, he found his way to the Super Training Gym and we sat down for an in depth conversation how Matt’s journey led him to become impossible. Matt Hill is a certified Primal Health Coach with a Doctor of Pharmacy degree. His journey to Impossibleness began 6 years ago after he lost his leg to a battle with pediatric cancer.  He’s an incredibly nice man with a drive I’ve seen in very few men.  I'm very glad to call him a friend. Matthew Hill (@impossible.performance) • Instagram photos and videos Russellbuddy (@russellbuddy) • Instagram photos and videos

Hey buddies, well look at us. You’re here, I’m here, we’re here together again to support the cause and to support the buddies.  I’m more than grateful for you and for the rare opportunity to have a conversation with an absolute stud, the great and powerful Matt Wenning. Matt has a master's degree in biomechanics and has broken multiple all time world records in powerlifting . He has major contacts with armed forces units such as US Army rangers, 82nd Airborne and others.  Matt offers encouragement and respect for anyone going after it in the pursuit of better health. We discuss Matt’s approach to diet and meal planning.  Plus, Matt gives some great advice on how to keep training past your prime, by utilizing the crawl, walk, run concept to exercise. I hope you enjoy this conversation. https://www.instagram.com/thefatwayout/ Matt Wenning M.S. Biomechanics (@realmattwenning) | Instagram Wenning Strength - YouTube

Hey buddy, just a quick check in.