Shows
Strength 101Creatine Explained: Benefits, Safety, and How to Use ItIn this episode of Strength 101, Nick breaks down one of the most misunderstood supplements in fitness: creatine. Despite being one of the most researched supplements on the planet, creatine is still surrounded by myths, fear, and outdated advice. Nick explains what creatine actually does in the body, how it supports strength, performance, and muscle growth, and why so many people are still hesitant to use it.He dives into common concerns like water retention, kidney health, weight gain, and whether creatine is only for “hardcore lifters.” Nick also clarifies who creatine is for, who might want to avoi...
2025-12-1819 min
Strength 101Personal Training Certifications are a SCAM!Thinking about becoming a personal trainer? Before you drop $500… $900… or even $2,700 on a certification — you need to watch this. In this Strength 101 Podcast clip, we break down the actual cost of the most popular personal trainer certs like NASM, ACE, ISSA, ACSM and more… and whether they’re even worth it for new coaches. A lot of people are told the first step is buying a certification. But is that true? Or is the fitness industry pushing expensive certs you may not need? If you’re considering a career in fitness — this is the video we wish we had before we spen...
2025-12-1114 min
Strength 101The Two Wolves Story: How Your Choices Shape Your LifeInside each of us, two wolves are fighting — one fueled by negativity and fear, the other by purpose and growth. Which one wins? The one we feed. In this episode, we go deeper than fitness and nutrition to talk about identity, environment, and mindset. Through vulnerable storytelling and reflection, we explore how small daily choices create momentum — for better or worse — and how surrounding yourself with the right people could change everything. If you’re stuck in a tough season, this message is for you.https://www.strengthacademyrf.comConnect with us!➡︎ IG: / https://www...
2025-12-0413 min
Strength 101Want Abs? Start Doing This Instead of PlanksWelcome back to Strength 101! Today, Nick breaks down the real formula for visible abs — no gimmicks, no shortcuts, just the truth.We walk through exactly which ab muscles matter, how to train them for size, and why nutrition is the most important part of finally seeing your six-pack. You’ll learn why planks don’t grow abs, why loaded ab training works far better than high-rep fluff, and what body-fat ranges are typically required for visible abs.We also shout out some insanely strong Strength Academy members and talk about how genetics, fat distribution, and muscle...
2025-11-2020 min
Strength 101Everyone Says Kettlebells Can’t Build Muscle. They’re Wrong.In this episode of Strength 101, Nick tackles one of the most common questions in fitness: Can kettlebells actually build muscle? As the owner of a gym that runs entirely on kettlebells, he breaks down how this minimalist approach became a strength-building success story.From the early days of experimenting with nothing but kettlebells to lessons learned training firefighters, Nick shares how this single piece of equipment can do it all — from deadlifts and squats to presses and rows. He also calls out the internet’s obsession with flashy “kettlebell tricks” and explains what actually drives muscle growth: load, in...
2025-11-1318 min
Strength 101We Answered the Most Common Fitness QuestionsIn this episode of Strength 101, Nick and Matraca answer the questions every gym member and coach has heard a thousand times — but never with this much honesty. From overcoming gym anxiety and staying motivated, to tackling slow metabolisms, deadlift form, and spot fat reduction myths, they break down the most common gym FAQs with real talk, personal stories, and plenty of laughs.The duo keeps things unfiltered but practical, explaining everything from how to actually build discipline when motivation fades, to what “cut the turd” means in deadlifting (yes, that happened). They even get into how muscle mass i...
2025-11-0626 min
Strength 101The Biggest Fitness Myths You Still BelieveIn this episode of Strength 101, Nick and Matraca are back with Part 2 of their fitness myth-busting series — and this time, they’re diving into the most debated topics in gym culture. From whether gyms should have dress codes, to the truth about soreness, calorie tracking, and cold plunges, the two coaches break down common misconceptions with honesty and humor.They tackle hot-button topics like “Do crunches give you abs?”, “Is training fasted actually better?”, and “Should influencers give diet advice without credentials?” — all while sharing their own real-world experiences as coaches and athletes. It’s equal parts education and entert...
2025-10-3029 min
Strength 101Trailer Talk Ep. 7 | Couch vs Couch — It's Gameday!In this episode of Trailer Talk, Stetler, Nick, Matraca, and Emily kick off a hilarious game night on the couch. From “Meet in the Middle” and song battles to chaotic laughter and quick-trip stories, the crew puts their friendship (and reflexes) to the test. What starts as a friendly competition quickly spirals into strategy debates, inside jokes, and off-the-rails banter that only this group could deliver.Between Adele sing-offs, random snack debates, and Nick’s overly serious game face, this episode captures everything fans love about Trailer Talk — authenticity, humor, and a little chaos. Whether you’re here for t...
2025-10-281h 06
Strength 101Breaking Down the Programming: Hercules EditionIn this episode of Strength 101, Nick breaks down one of the most anticipated gym programs of the year — The Hercules Program. This 4-week strength cycle is designed to push athletes past plateaus, build serious muscle, and maximize raw power through low-rep, heavy-weight training.Nick walks listeners through the structure of the program — from the 5x5 and 8x3 progressions to the A/B upper-body format pairing strict presses and pull-ups. He explains how the design draws inspiration from legendary strength coach Louie Simmons of Westside Barbell, using intelligent variation and “max effort” methods to build strength without overuse injuries...
2025-10-2327 min
Strength 101Trailer Talk Ep. 6 | The Truth About Labubu Dolls, Football Locker Rooms, and Naked WorkoutsIn this episode of Trailer Talk, the crew embraces peak chaos — diving into Labubu dolls, TikTok shopping disasters, football memories, and some truly unhinged locker room stories. From weddings and baby messes to high school dance confessions and an unforgettable trip to a French bathhouse, nothing is off limits.Nick, Matraca, Emily, and Stetler bounce between hilarious tangents — debating naked workouts in ancient Greece, the strangest sports facts, and how O.J. Simpson somehow becomes part of the conversation. Things spiral further when they share the dumbest things they did in school, how cheating almost cost Stet his...
2025-10-2157 min
Strength 101Myths the Fitness Industry Doesn’t Want You to KnowIn this episode of Strength 101, Nick and Matraca dive into some of the most common fitness myths floating around gyms, social media, and everyday conversations. From whether trainers need to look the part to debates about overtraining, bulking and cutting cycles, eating after 8 p.m., and the infamous 75 Hard challenge — nothing’s off limits.The duo brings both humor and honesty to every topic, sharing real experiences from the Strength Academy gym floor and breaking down misconceptions with clarity and science. They touch on everything from coaching credibility, sustainability in training programs, and social media comparisons to why...
2025-10-1624 min
Strength 101Trailer Talk Ep. 5 | Pringles Can in the Pants, Viral Challenges, and Crimes We Would CommitIn this episode of Trailer Talk, the unhinged sibling of Strength 101, Nick, Matraca, Emily, and Griswold dive into a full hour of absolute chaos — starting with a wild conversation about gym etiquette, censorship, and a gym story — featuring a guy whose bike shorts made him internet famous for all the wrong reasons.From there, the crew somehow transitions into kids behaving badly, yelling at strangers’ children, and why leaving your cart at Aldi makes you the worst kind of person. The conversation keeps escalating — from weddings and discipline to milk challenges, banana and Sprite reactions, and the 10-10-10 b...
2025-10-1340 min
Strength 101I Dug Into Ozempic Research — Here’s What I FoundIn this solo episode of Strength 101, Nick dives headfirst into one of the most talked-about topics in modern fitness — Ozempic and GLP-1 agonists. With so much noise online, he cuts through the jargon and breaks it down in plain English. From insulin and glucagon to appetite regulation and calorie deficits, Nick explains how these drugs actually work — and what most people get wrong about them.But this isn’t just science talk. He brings it back to real life — how these drugs can impact your energy, muscle mass, skin, and long-term health, and why “Ozempic face” isn’t magic, it’s...
2025-10-0931 min
Strength 101Trailer Talk Ep. 4 | Only Our Podcast Could Go From Weddings to Furries to Steroids to OzempicIn this episode of Trailer Talk, Nick, Matraca, Stetler and Emily kick things off with pure chaos—the unhinged sibling of Strength 101. It’s Emily’s first time on the mic, and between her jalapeño meltdown, body comp hunger, and cat drama, the crew wastes no time diving into hilariously random life updates. From camping stories and weddings to awkward speeches and emotional first dances, the conversation rides the full spectrum of stupid-funny to surprisingly heartfelt.Then, things take a hard turn into “RunIt,” the wild new collision sport that looks like football meets power slap. The group d...
2025-10-071h 25
Strength 101The Real Definitions of Motivation, Discipline, and AccountabilityIn this solo Strength 101 episode, Nick shifts focus from sets, reps, and macros to the mental side of fitness. He digs into the big three buzzwords — motivation, discipline, and accountability — breaking down why they’re often misunderstood and how to reframe them for long-term success.Motivation is fleeting, a temporary state fueled by desire (positive) or fear (negative). It can spark action, but it can’t sustain it.Discipline isn’t about suffering through tasks you hate — it’s simply habit in disguise. Once habits become ingrained, they transform into identity, making consistency effortless.Accountability is the missing piece for most...
2025-10-0237 min
Strength 101The Real Definitions of Motivation, Discipline, and AccountabilityIn this solo Strength 101 episode, Nick shifts focus from sets, reps, and macros to the mental side of fitness. He digs into the big three buzzwords — motivation, discipline, and accountability — breaking down why they’re often misunderstood and how to reframe them for long-term success.Motivation is fleeting, a temporary state fueled by desire (positive) or fear (negative). It can spark action, but it can’t sustain it.Discipline isn’t about suffering through tasks you hate — it’s simply habit in disguise. Once habits become ingrained, they transform into identity, making consistency effortless.Accountability is the missing piece for most...
2025-10-0239 min
Strength 101Trailer Talk Ep. 3 | The Craziest Hypotheticals Ever DebatedThis week on Trailer Talk, the crew ditches trending news and goes all-in on the weirdest, hardest-hitting hypothetical questions imaginable. From deciding between daily public nudity or living in used underwear, to debating how many times they’d push a red button that grants a million dollars but kills someone at random, nothing is off-limits.The conversation gets even more unhinged with scenarios like:Would you rather have your kids call their partners “Mommy” or “Daddy”?Would you face off against DK Metcalf, Giannis, or Alex Morgan in a random sport for $1 million?And yes—the age-old nigh...
2025-09-2953 min
Strength 101Training for Aesthetics vs Training for StrengthIn this episode of Strength 101, Nick takes on one of the biggest debates in fitness: training for aesthetics or training for strength. While both are valid goals, the training approaches couldn’t be more different.Nick breaks down the specific strategies for each:For aesthetics: focus on isolation, higher volume, shorter rest, and muscle definition.For strength: prioritize heavy compound lifts, lower rep ranges, long rest periods, and recruiting as much muscle mass as possible.He also explains why trying to chase both at the same time often leaves you spinning your wheels, and why ch...
2025-09-2519 min
Strength 101Strength 101 Ep. 27 | Weights or Cardio First? The Answer.In this solo episode of Strength 101, Nick breaks down one of the most common gym questions: should you do cardio or weight training first? Using simple analogies, Nick explains why the answer always comes down to your goals.If building muscle and strength is your priority, lifting should come first while you’re fresh. If running, rowing, or endurance is your main goal, lead with cardio. And if your only focus is weight loss? It doesn’t matter—the results will come from nutrition, not from whether you log treadmill miles before or after your lifts.This...
2025-09-1815 min
Strength 101Trailer Talk Ep. 2 | Slashercise, Horned Bunnies & Alcoholic Energy DrinksIn Episode 2 of Trailer Talk, the crew goes full “couch mode”—pizza, gummy worms, Grizwold, and zero filters. This week’s chaos covers everything from body comp signups, the new Phoenix program to Slashercise, the horror-themed workout in LA where chainsaws and fake blood mix with cardio.The conversation spirals into wild directions: horned virus-infected rabbits in Colorado, High Noon’s vodka-seltzer/Celsius mix-up, and whether Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are the real deal or just a PR move. Add in tattoos, dream analysis, and a debate over the ultimate superpower, and you’ve got an unhinged, hi...
2025-09-111h 06
Strength 101What Your Body Really Does With CarbsIn this solo session of Strength 101, Nick breaks down carbohydrates in the simplest way possible—and puts an end to the myths that carbs are something to fear. Using clear analogies (like Lego blocks for simple vs. complex carbs), he explains how all carbs break down into glucose, your body’s preferred fuel source for both the brain and muscles.From understanding glycogen storage to why fast-digesting sugars are helpful before a workout, Nick dives into when and why carbs matter most. He also covers practical strategies for choosing between complex carbs for satiety or simple carbs for...
2025-09-0417 min
Strength 101Can You Build Muscle and Lose Fat at the Same TimeIn this episode of Strength 101, Nick takes on one of the biggest questions in fitness: can you build muscle and lose fat at the same time? He explains why fat loss and muscle gain are technically opposite processes — one catabolic, one anabolic — and what it takes to balance them without losing progress on either side.Nick breaks it down into three simple rules: lift weights at least three times a week, stay in a caloric deficit, and hit your daily protein target. He walks through real-world examples, including how to calculate your protein needs, why recovery matters as m...
2025-08-2818 min
Strength 101How to Choose the Right Type of Muscle Growth for Your GoalsIn this episode of Strength 101, Nick goes solo to unpack one of the most misunderstood topics in lifting — hypertrophy. From the “pumped-up” size you get through sarcoplasmic hypertrophy to the dense, long-lasting strength built with myofibrillar hypertrophy, Nick explains how each type works and why it matters for your training. He breaks down the rep ranges, rest times, and strategies that target each one, and why pushing every set to failure is the ultimate growth signal. Using simple analogies and real-world examples from Strength Academy programming, Nick shows you how to match your workouts to your goals — whether you want fas...
2025-08-1715 min
Strength 101Here’s How to Boost Testosterone Without TRTIn this solo episode of Strength 101, Nick dives into one of the most misunderstood topics in fitness: testosterone. But this isn’t just for the dudes. Nick breaks down why testosterone matters for everyone — and how you can improve it naturally. No needles, no prescriptions — just sleep, lifting heavy, saturated fats, and honest talk. Drawing from his experience with mountain-man mentor Johnny Woodford and stories from inside the gym, Nick unpacks the habits that move the needle: getting quality sleep, training with intensity, eating smarter (yes, even bacon), and managing body fat. Whether you're a competitive lifter or just tired...
2025-08-1014 min
Strength 101From Hot Dog Races to Kiss Cam Scandals — Our Most Unfiltered Opinions YetIn this first episode of Trailer Talk, Nick, Matraca, and Stetler kick back on $30 inflatable couches for an unfiltered, anything-goes conversation. From viral headlines like the Coldplay “kiss cam” CEO scandal and a Hyrox race controversy, to debating if Joey Chestnut could beat Usain Bolt in the ultimate hot dog–sprint showdown, nothing is off-limits. They dive into creepy NYC hook-man sightings, personal run-ins with stalkers, and even who they’d fanboy or fangirl over in the sports world. It’s part pop culture, part fitness talk, part pure chaos — and all the personality you don’t usually get to hear on Str...
2025-08-0251 min
Strength 101What Really Happens When You Lift & Drink AlcoholIn this episode of Strength 101, Nick gets real about alcohol — not from a place of judgment, but from a place of curiosity and honesty. He breaks down what actually happens in your body when you drink, how it affects your sleep, recovery, and gym performance, and why it’s not just about willpower or discipline. You’ll hear about the trade-offs that come with drinking, the science behind those brutal “shamesies” after a night out, and how to navigate social life while still chasing your goals. Whether you're training hard or just trying to feel better, this episode will help you t...
2025-07-2721 min
Strength 101High School Basketball Star and College Athlete Turned Fitness CoachIn this episode of Strength 101, Nick sits down with Coach Alex to dive into his journey from small-town farm life to the world of college athletics and group fitness. Alex shares stories from his days as a high school basketball standout including how he scored over 1,000 career points, and the shift that led him to compete in college track instead. From long hours in the field to intense workouts on the track, he talks about the values that shaped him, why he fell in love with coaching, and where he hopes to grow next. Whether you’re chasing your ne...
2025-07-2055 min
Strength 101Why You’re Always Hurt — Even When You’re Lifting “Right”In this episode of Strength 101, Nick goes solo to break down one of the most frustrating parts of any fitness journey — injuries. From nagging shoulder pain to aching knees and low back tweaks, Nick explains the three most common lifting-related injuries he sees and the simple movement fixes that can help you recover and stay in the game. He shares real coaching cues and examples from Strength Academy members, diving into why bracing, positioning, and body awareness matter more than the weight on the bar. Whether you’re currently sidelined or just want to train smarter, this episode will give...
2025-07-1320 min
Strength 101Abs Aren’t Made in the Kitchen — They’re Built in the GymIn this episode of Strength 101, Coach Nick breaks down one of the most talked-about topics in fitness — how to get visible abs. He covers why they’re so rare, what actually works to build them, and how nutrition plays into the process. From loaded crunches and leg raises to the truth about body fat percentages, Nick walks through the practical (and often misunderstood) steps for building a strong core that shows. You’ll learn why abs are more than a kitchen myth, what exercises are overrated, and how to know if the six-pack life is really for you. Whether you're...
2025-07-0619 min
Three Cheap SeatsBYOM (Mask)A full-cast, packed episode this week with all sorts of Masquerade drama, Evita controversies, and Gavin's research project findings.
2025-07-0459 min
Strength 101Start Eating Like This, and Your Workouts Will Never Feel the SameIn this episode of Strength 101, Nick breaks down one of the most overlooked strategies for better workouts and faster recovery: nutrient timing. From the first thing you eat in the morning to how you refuel after a hard training session, Nick simplifies the science behind when to eat carbs, protein, and salt to maximize muscle growth and performance. He dives into the role of water, sugar, and protein — and how each impacts energy, the pump, and recovery. Whether you train at 5 a.m. or 8 p.m., this episode lays out a clear, practical roadmap to fuel smarter and feel st...
2025-06-3023 min
Strength 101Stop Overcomplicating Nutrition... It's Just Protein and CaloriesIn this episode of Strength 101, Matraca goes solo to break down one of the most overcomplicated topics in fitness: nutrition. With endless fad diets, conflicting advice, and unrealistic expectations filling up social media, it’s no wonder so many people feel stuck. Matraca simplifies it all by focusing on two key principles — hitting your protein goal and staying in a calorie deficit. She walks through her personal tips for meal prep, food tracking, high-volume eating, and how to make room for your favorite foods (yes, even ice cream). Whether you’re just getting started or trying to get back on tra...
2025-06-2216 min
Strength 101Why Rest and Stretching Might Be Making Your Injury WorseIn this episode of Strength 101, Nick goes solo to unpack a topic every lifter eventually faces — muscle tightness, strains, and nagging pains that won’t go away. Fueled by a late-night call from his brother-in-law dealing with rib pain after a workout, Nick shares a simple but game-changing framework for dealing with soft tissue injuries. From understanding the difference between joint damage and muscle strains to why rest and stretching might be making things worse, he lays out a smarter approach to recovery. You’ll hear why movement, blood flow, and smart loading matter more than you think — and how to g...
2025-06-1509 min
Strength 101How a 39 Year Old Mom of 3 Got Shredded Without Giving Up DessertIn this episode of Strength 101, Nick sits down with longtime member Jamie Galgowski — a 39-year-old mom of three who’s in the best shape of her life. Jamie opens up about her journey from running endless miles and struggling with postpartum shifts to becoming one of the most shredded members at the gym. She shares how her mindset evolved, the role of tracking and strength training, and how she found balance between family life, career, and personal goals. Whether you’re juggling parenthood, looking to drop weight, or just need proof that it’s possible to feel strong again — this episo...
2025-06-0850 min
Strength 101How to Start Lifting the Right Way and Actually See ResultsIn this episode of Strength 101, Coach Nick goes solo to break down the three biggest things no one tells you when you start lifting. From knowing which exercises actually build muscle, to understanding how hard you really need to push, to figuring out how much training your body can handle — this episode lays out a clear roadmap for beginners who are serious about getting results. With a mix of personal reflection and tactical advice, Nick shares the exact principles he wishes he knew at 22. Whether you’re just getting into strength training or not seeing progress despite your efforts, this...
2025-06-0117 min
Strength 101How to Actually Get Rid of Your Dad Bod | Ep 2In this episode of Strength 101, Nick tackles one of the most common questions he gets: how do I get rid of my dad bod?With humor, honesty, and a step-by-step breakdown, he explains why the dad bod happens, why age isn’t the real culprit, and exactly what to do if you’re ready to change. From strength training basics to tracking food and hitting protein targets, Nick lays out a realistic path to build muscle, lose fat, and ditch the melted ice cream cone look.Whether you're a busy dad or just tired of hidi...
2025-05-2517 min
Strength 101What We Learned From Training at 6+ Different Gyms | Ep 16https://www.strengthacademyrf.comConnect with us!➡︎ IG: / https://www.instagram.com/strengthacademyrf?igsh=MWlsOHZoaWM2NDdkbg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr➡︎ Tik Tok: / https://www.tiktok.com/@strength101podcast?_t=ZP-8uz54FwRds6&_r=1⚡️FREE CLASS: Sign up for a FREE class at our gym here: ➡︎ https://strengthacademy.pushpress.com/landing/plans/plan_3b8de81cc61fb7/login⚡️BODY COMPOSITION PROGRAM: Check out our body composition program here:➡︎ https://www.strengthacademy101.com⚡️OUR APP: Check out our app here:➡︎ https://coach.everfit.io/package/UA723379Build mus...
2025-05-1847 min
Strength 101I Ate 6000+ Calories for 36 Days! | Ep 15In this podcast, Nick breaks down his wild fast food experiment — a month-long journey of eating over 6,000 calories a day to purposely gain weight, and challenge the narrative around food, health, and transformation. He shares the results from his initial blood tests, how he felt during the process, and why he believes it’s possible to reverse the effects in just 30 days. You’ll hear the mindset behind the experiment, what he’s doing next to drop the weight, and how this all ties into a bigger message about ownership, flexibility, and knowing your body. Whether you’re curious about nutr...
2025-05-1117 min
Strength 101Why Discomfort Comes Before Growth | Ep 1In this solo episode of Strength 101, Coach Nick shares a powerful mindset shift that could change how you approach your goals—in the gym and in life. He dives into the idea of the “feeling after the feeling,” explaining why pushing through discomfort now can lead to pride, progress, and long-term success. Whether you're facing gym anxiety, chasing new habits, or just trying to level up, this one’s for you.
2025-05-0412 min
Strength 101Episode 14: Build Strength and Power With Our New Workout Program!Our upcoming POWER PROGRAM is almost here—and we’re giving you the inside scoop. Nick and DJ sat down to break down the why, the what, and how behind every exercise! Whether you’re new or a vet, this is your cheat code to crushing this 4 week program!In this episode you'll hear aboutThe thought process behind the designA breakdown of each exerciseHow to attack this program with serious efficiency
2025-04-2750 min
Strength 101Episode 13: We Had No Idea What We Were Doing... Now We Coach 350+ PeopleIn this episode of Strength 101, two Strength Academy coaches open up about their personal fitness journeys — from feeling lost on day one in the gym to becoming confident leaders and coaches.They talk through the intimidation of getting started, the setbacks and breakthroughs that shaped them, and the powerful moments that made it click. You’ll hear how pull-ups and deadlifts became more than just lifts, and why coaching became their calling.Whether you're just starting out or deep into your fitness journey, this episode is a reminder that everyone starts somewhere — and growth is always...
2025-04-2043 min
Strength 101Episode 12: You Are Being Lied To About Calories and NutritionIn this episode of Strength 101, Nick and Matraca break down the truth behind one of the most misunderstood topics in fitness: nutrition. From the myth of “good” and “bad” calories to why labeling foods as strictly healthy or unhealthy is misleading. They explain why calories are simply energy, and how that understanding can change your entire approach to eating.They also get into topics like metabolic rate, muscle mass, and even grocery store layouts. This episode is part science, part storytelling, and a whole lot of myth-busting. If you’ve ever been confused by food labels, fad diets, or...
2025-04-1347 min
Strength 101Episode 12: You Are Being Lied to About Calories and Nutrition!In this episode of Strength 101, Nick and Matraca break down the truth behind one of the most misunderstood topics in fitness: nutrition. From the myth of “good” and “bad” calories to why labeling foods as strictly healthy or unhealthy is misleading. They explain why calories are simply energy, and how that understanding can change your entire approach to eating.They also get into topics like metabolic rate, muscle mass, and even grocery store layouts. This episode is part science, part storytelling, and a whole lot of myth-busting. If you’ve ever been confused by food labels, fad diets, or...
2025-04-1347 min
Strength 101Episode 11: Asking a 23 Year Old How He Completely Turned His Life Around! (Part 2)In this episode of Strength 101, Nick sits down with our Strength Coach DJ for a conversation about his journey. You’ll hear real stories about resilience, growth, and the mindset shifts that helped DJ transform his life at just 23 years old. Whether you’re navigating your own challenges or just need a bit of inspiration, this episode is a raw and motivating look at what it means to take control of your path. https://www.strengthacademyrf.comConnect with us!➡︎ IG: / https://www.instagram.com/strengthacademyrf?igsh=MWlsOHZoaWM2NDdkbg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
2025-04-0647 min
Strength 101Episode 10: Asking a 23 Year Old How He Completely Turned His Life Around! (Part 1)In this episode of Strength 101, Nick sits down with our Strength Coach DJ for a powerful and honest conversation about his journey through adversity. From his time in the military to the challenges of college life, DJ opens up about the personal struggles and turning points that shaped who he is today.You’ll hear real stories about resilience, growth, and the mindset shifts that helped DJ transform his life at just 23 years old. Whether you’re navigating your own challenges or just need a bit of inspiration, this episode is a raw and motivating look at what...
2025-03-3051 min
Strength 101Episode 9: Lower Body Muscle Groups Deep Dive!In this episode of Strength 101, co-hosts Nick and Matraca dive into the key lower body muscle groups – quads, hamstrings, glutes, and calves. They break down some of their favorite exercises to build strength, power, and size, and share tips for maximizing your lower body gains.Whether you’re looking to fine-tune your lower body workouts or add new moves to your routine, this episode is packed with practical advice and techniques to help you build muscle and see results!
2025-03-2334 min
Strength 101Episode 8: Deep Dive Into the Upper Body Muscle Groups!In this episode of Strength 101, co-hosts Nick and Matraca dive into the key upper body muscle groups - chest, arms, shoulders, and abs. They break down some of their favorite exercises to build strength and size, including the new chest crusher movement from our last program.Nick shares tips for getting the most out of pressing movements and how to challenge your shoulders. Matraca talks arm finishers that leave your biceps and triceps pumped, and core exercises that are simple but effective.Whether you’re looking to fine-tune your upper body workouts or find new ex...
2025-03-1625 min
Strength 101Episode 7: Interviewing Coach Matraca!In our NEWEST EPISODE of Strength 101, host Nick Byom sits down with Matraca to uncover the journey that shaped her into the person she is today. From her childhood experiences to the pivotal moments that fueled her passion for fitness and personal growth, Matraca shares her story with honesty and insight. They dive into the challenges she's faced, the lessons she's learned, and how those experiences have made her stronger—both mentally and physically.
2025-03-021h 02
Strength 101Episode 6: Q&A Part 2!In this episode of Strength 101, we discuss questions asked by our very own listeners. Co-hosts Nick and Matraca answer questions about protein, fasting, creatine, and strategic eating!
2025-02-2324 min
Strength 101Episode 6: Q&A Part 1!In this episode of Strength 101, we discuss questions asked by our very own listeners. Co-hosts Nick and Matraca answer questions about macros, volume eating, how to maximize gains, and more!
2025-02-1621 min
Strength 101Episode 5: Strength Made Simple!In this episode of Strength 101, we discuss how to make strength training simple. Co-hosts Nick and Matraca break down workouts of their own, and discuss why those workouts will get you the best results!
2025-02-0950 min
Strength 101Episode 4: Navigating Eating Out On A Cut!In this episode of Strength 101, we discuss how eating out while trying to stay in a calorie deficit can feel like a challenge—but it doesn’t have to be! Co-hosts Nick and Matraca break down practical strategies for enjoying restaurant meals without derailing your progress.Nick explains why a calorie deficit is the key to weight loss and how to make mindful choices when dining out. Matraca shares simple yet effective tips—like using food tracking apps, scanning menus ahead of time, and making smart swaps—to help you stay on track without sacrificing flavor or fun....
2025-02-0332 min
Strength 101Episode 3: Busting Fitness Myths - Part 2!Welcome to Strength 101, the podcast where co-hosts Nick and Matraca bust fitness myths and deliver straight-up advice to help you crush your goals.From debunking common myths about the "anabolic window", "sweat equity" and "no pain no gain" Nick and Matraca cut through fitness fads with humor and science.Subscribe to Strength 101 on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media for updates and more!
2025-01-3119 min
Strength 101Episode 3: Busting Fitness Myths - Part 1!Welcome to Strength 101, the podcast where co-hosts Nick and Matraca bust fitness myths and deliver straight-up advice to help you crush your goals.From debunking "Does lifting weights make you bulky?" to "Targeting specific spot on body for fat loss", Nick and Matraca cut through fitness fads with humor and science.Subscribe to Strength 101 on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media for updates and more!
2025-01-2420 min
Strength 101Episode 2: Weight Loss 101!In this episode of Strength 101, co-hosts Nick and Matraca tackle the ever-confusing world of weight loss. With so much misinformation out there—like the myths that "carbs are bad" or "fats are the enemy"—they break it all down and explain the science behind shedding pounds the right way.Nick explains the cornerstone of weight loss: a calorie deficit. Learn what calories really are and why understanding the "energy in, energy out" model is crucial. Matraca shares practical tips like using food tracking apps to help simplify your nutrition and ensure you're on the right path.If...
2025-01-1748 min
Strength 101Episode 2: Weight Loss 101!In this episode of Strength 101, co-hosts Nick and Matraca tackle the ever-confusing world of weight loss. With so much misinformation out there—like the myths that "carbs are bad" or "fats are the enemy"—they break it all down and explain the science behind shedding pounds the right way.Nick explains the cornerstone of weight loss: a calorie deficit. Learn what calories really are and why understanding the "energy in, energy out" model is crucial. Matraca shares practical tips like using food tracking apps to help simplify your nutrition and ensure you're on the right path.If...
2025-01-1748 min
Strength 101Episode 1: Meet Your Hosts!Welcome to the very first episode of Strength 101! Join co-hosts Nick Byom and Matraca Conarro as they introduce themselves and Strength Academy. Get to know Matraca as she shares her journey from a small town in Minnesota to becoming a coach at Strength Academy in River Falls.Nick and Matraca discuss what makes Strength Academy unique—a gym focused on traditional strength training classes for the general population. Whether you're a 40-year-old mom looking to start lifting or someone who wants to master the basics like squats, deadlifts, rows, and bench presses, Strength Academy is the place fo...
2025-01-0851 min