After 9 long years Bret Contreras, aka, "The Glute Guy" returns to the Industrial Strength Show...and he & Joe have a LOT to talk about! Here are a few of the topics you'll hear discussed during their 2-hour conversation: The early T-Nation days; How to "make it" in the fitness industry (Then vs Now); The wildly popular piece of equipment that Bret put in storage and Joe ended up selling; How Bret's training has evolved over the years; Finding your maximum recoverable volume (MRV); How glute training has evolved over the years; The mind-muscle connection vs progressive overload; The benefits of training w/ bands & chains; Training the "stretch" vs the "squeeze" positions; How to make longterm progress...And so much MORE! *For a full list of Show Notes + Timestamps visit www.IndustrialStrengthShow.com. 

• IMPORTANT LINKS
• Bret Contreras
• BC Strength (Bret's products)
• DeFranco's Nutritional Supplements [coupon: MuscleUpMarch]

On this week's show Joe continues the Q&A he started last week. After venting about the amount of shoveling he's done over the past 48 hours, Joe answers the following questions: Q1) Can you still bench press if you have a tear in your supraspinatus tendon? Q2) Is there any benefit to reducing weight and increasing reps for men over 50? Q3) What's the best way to get a young kid started in the gym? And is 11 too young to start? Q4) What's the best stimulant-free pre-workout stack? Q5) Do advanced lifters (10+ years experience) need MORE volume in order to continue making progress? *For a full list of Show Notes + Timestamps visit www.IndustrialStrengthShow.com.

• IMPORTANT LINKS
• Tyrofeine (coupon: OVERSTOCK20)
• Pump-n-Prime
• MuscleMAG 300
• Manukora Honey

This week Joe answers 6 listener questions. Specific topics include: Q1) Thoughts on the 5-day split: Upper/Lower/Push/Pull/Legs? Q2) What are the biggest mistakes you see new gym owners make? Q3) What is the most common mistake you see young college S&C coaches make? Q4) Why do you think there is such a disconnect between Physical Therapists and S&C coaches? Q5) Have you come across anything online recently that pissed you off? Q6) What is the most overlooked aspect of longevity training? *For a full list of Show Notes w/ Timestamps visit www.IndustrialStrengthShow.com.

• IMPORTANT LINKS
• DeFranco's Tyrofeine
• Iron Business Mastermind Weekend
• Team Forever Strong [Free Trial]
• Dirty Tricks for Higher Vertical Jumps (2008 article)

On this week's show Joe shares 10 [ridiculously simple] ways to improve your health. NOTE: There are NO "gimmicky products" or "biohacks" on Joe's list. Unlike social media that prioritizes engagement over truth - Everything discussed on this show is TRIED & TRUE. If you follow the advice on today's show you WILL become a healthier human :) *For a full list of Show Notes w/ Timestamps visit www.IndustrialStrengthShow.com.

• IMPORTANT LINKS
• Team Forever Strong [1-Week Free Trial]
• Coach CARTright
• DeFranco's Nutritional Supplements
• Manukora Honey

On this week's show Joe welcomes back former DeFranco's Gym head coach and current Detroit Lions S&C coach Cameron Josse. Cam discusses a wide variety of topics including: How he prepared (and crushed) his NFL job interview; Is Detroit Lions Head Coach Dan Campbell the same "IRL" as he seems on TV?; Did anything surprise Cam once he started working w/ the Lions?; What does "a day in Cam's life" look like as an NFL strength & conditioning coach?; How Cam's experience as a DeFranco's Gym CLIENT has helped him become a better NFL strength coach; The Detroit Lions pre-season conditioning test...And so much MORE! *For a full list of Show Notes w/ Timestamps visit www.IndustrialStrengthShow.com.

• IMPORTANT LINKS
• DeFranco's Nutritional Supplements
• Iron Business Mastermind [APPLY HERE]

On this week's show, Joe answers 4 listener questions. Specific topics include: 1) Two of the most overrated "health metrics" [and what you should pay attention to instead] 2) Bench pressing angle recommendations based on your specific type of shoulder pain 3) Joe's favorite plank variations for advanced trainees 4) Is Joe currently doing anything different with Triple H & Stephanie McMahon's programming, and BONUS QUESTION: What's something that would surprise the Industrial Strength Universe if they ever got the opportunity to train with Joe in-person? *For a full list of Show Notes + Timestamps visit www.IndustrialStrengthShow.com.

• IMPORTANT LINKS
• Iron Business Mastermind Weekend [APPLY HERE]
• Joe's instagram

On this week's show Joe reacts to a recent episode of "The View" where Dr. Ania Jastreboff & Oprah Winfrey state that, "Obesity is NOT a choice, it's a DISEASE." Joe does not hold back as he shares [what he believes to be] the real #1 cause of obesity, as well as the role genetics play in our health & body composition. *For a full list of Show Notes w/ Timestamps visit www.IndustrialStrengthShow.com.

• IMPORTANT LINKS
• DeFranco-brand supplements
• Iron Business Mastermind Weekend

Joe opens this week's show with an update regarding his longtime search for the best "non-toxic, non-stick cookware." He then shares the 3 common habits that most people THINK are "healthy", but #JoeKnows otherwise :) The show concludes with Joe sharing his thoughts on the NEW Food Pyramid. *For a full list of Show Notes + Timestamps visit www.IndustrialStrengthShow.com.

• IMPORTANT LINKS
• Team Forever Strong [FREE Trial!]
• Best Ceramic Non-stick Pan
• DeFranco's Multi

If you want to start 2026 STRONG, this podcast is a MUST-LISTEN! This year marks the 10-year anniversary of the original "SB911 Transformation Contest" and on today's show Joe D. & Smitty announce its RETURN! Together, they explain why SB911 produces such incredible results, along with all the necessary details surrounding the 2026 version of the contest. So if you're ready to kick ass in 2026 and train with PURPOSE again - Give this show a listen and consider entering the SB911 Transformation Challenge! *For a full list of Show Notes w/ Timestamps visit www.IndustrialStrengthShow.com.

• IMPORTANT LINKS
• Team Forever Strong [Free Trial]
• Joe DeFranco
• Jim "Smitty" Smith

On this special New Year's Eve/Day edition of the podcast Joe cuts through all the BULLSH*T "health & fitness" advice that currently dominates social media and shares his TRIED & TRUE "Core Pillars of Health". Prioritizing these 5 things WILL change your life in 2026! And as an added bonus, Joe reveals the #1 reason most people's New Year's resolutions fail...and WHAT TO DO ABOUT IT! If you're ready to make REAL/SUSTAINABLE changes in 2026 this episode is a MUST-LISTEN! *For a full list of Show Notes + Timestamps visit www.IndustrialStrengthShow.com.

• IMPORTANT LINKS
• Team Forever Strong [7-Day Free Trial]
• Joe D's Instagram

In honor of Christmas falling on a Thursday for the first time in 11 years - Joe decided to record a new show for his audience this week - as opposed to a replay (which was discussed last week.) On this special "Christmas edition" of the podcast Joe shares his "Top 3 Tips for a Merry/Meathead Christmas" (which includes a special bonus tip)... And the show concludes with Joe sharing an interaction he recently had at Staples with a listener who asked him a very interesting question lol. *For a full list of Show Notes + Timestamps visit www.IndustrialStrengthShow.com. Merry Christmas, everyone!

• IMPORTANT LINKS
• Coach CARTright
• Team Forever Strong [Free Trial]
• Vitamin D

On this week's show Joe shares his list of last-minute [affordable] gift ideas for the washed-up meathead! *For a full list of Show Notes & Timestamps visit www.IndustrialStrengthShow.com.

• PRODUCTS MENTIONED
• Tongue scraper
• Digital Food Scale
• DeFranco supplements [coupon: xmas10]
• HandxBand resistance bands [coupon: joed]
• Elitefts Micro resistance band
• Grip Globe
• Fat Gripz
• N-Gage Grips
• MicroGainz fractional plates
• Swissies Neutral Grip attachments
• Coregeous Ball
• The Sweet Life Bakery cookies
• Magnetic Power Rack Position markers
• Coach CARTright book
• Rollga Foam Roller [coupon: joed]
• Hylete Hyper Vest Pro
• Rogue Plate Carrier
• Ruck Plate Carrier 3.0

On today's show, Joe takes his audience through a full day in his life as he juggles responsibilities as a personal trainer/gym owner, business coach, children's book author, podcaster, father, husband and son :) *For a full list of Show Notes w/ Timestamps visit www.IndustrialStrengthShow.com.

• IMPORTANT LINKS
• Coach CARTright
• Join Joe's email list!
• Team Forever Strong [Free Trial]
• Iron Business Blueprint
• Magic Spoon

Dr. Allan Bacon returns to the Industrial Strength Show (after a wildly popular first appearance) to discuss the nuanced truth about the following topics: 1) Collagen protein and its effect on hair, skin, soft tissue injuries and building muscle 2) Cold Plunging and its effect on recovery, cognitive function & dopamine levels 3) Does the "Anabolic Window" exist and how does Meal Frequency/Timing affect our body composition & food cravings? *For a full list of Show Notes + Timestamps visit www.IndustrialStrengthShow.com.

• IMPORTANT LINKS
• DeFranco's Nutritional Supplements
• Dr. Allan Bacon
• Joe DeFranco

Joe kicks off this special Thanksgiving episode by sharing all the things he's most thankful for this year. After giving thanks, he introduces his audience to Coach CARTright! You definitely DON'T want to miss this historic, life-changing episode and introduction to your new/favorite coach! *For a full list of Show Notes + Timestamps visit www.IndustrialStrengthShow.com

• IMPORTANT LINKS
• Coach CARTright [ships Dec. 11]
• NEW DeFranco merch!
• Westside for Skinny Bastards 3.5
• Iron Business Blueprint [Apply Now!]
• Team Forever Strong [Free Trial]

Joe kicks off this week's show with a quick update on his dad's shoulder replacement...and a NEW MERCH announcement! He then answers 2 listener questions. TOPICS INCLUDE: 1) Injury Update: Joe's supplement, peptide and treatment protocol for the torn ligament in his SC (sternoclavicular) joint 2) The top 3 most underrated set/rep schemes for strength & hypertrophy goals... And MORE! *For a full list of Show Notes + Timestamps visit www.IndustrialStrengthShow.com.

• IMPORTANT LINKS
• NEW DeFranco Merch!
• MuscleMAG 300
• Team Forever Strong [Free Trial]
• Peptide Sciences
• Manukora Honey

For the second time in 4 weeks, Jim "Smitty" Smith joins Joe for an "off the cuff" podcast conversation! Specific topics discussed include: Behind-the-scenes insight into Phase 2 of Built Different; A nuanced approach to training variability (and programming in 4-week blocks); 3 things that the "happiest people in the world" always have; Valuable gym lessons from high achievers; How to get your weaker limb stronger in record time; Remembering Mike Mentzer; The difference between "science-based coaches" & "science-based KIDS"; How to blow up your biceps in ONE iNsAnE set...And so much more! *For a full list of Show Notes + Timestamps visit www.IndustrialStrengthShow.com.

• IMPORTANT LINKS
• Team Forever Strong [FREE Trial]
• Iron Business Blueprint [Apply Now]
• Smitty's Instagram
• Joe D's Instagram
• Manukora Honey

Very unique show this week as Joe had to record the podcast from his truck in the parking lot of a hospital (during his dad's shoulder replacement surgery!) But, there is still a ton of value (and entertainment) packed into this episode :) Joe kicks off the show with a funny "pre-surgery George D. story" and a "MuscleUpNovember" supplement sale reminder  before getting into the training talk. Specifically, this week's show is a follow-up from last week's episode on "high volume vs high intensity". Joe answers 2 follow-up questions from his audience then explains exactly how to "get the best of both worlds" (high volume AND high intensity) in a single workout/program. He shares 2 specific training templates that combine high volume WITH high intensity in order to create the "perfect workout"! *For a full list of Show Notes with Timestamps visit www.IndustrialStrengthShow.com.

• IMPORTANT LINKS
• DeFranco's Nutritional Supplements
• Team Forever Strong [Free Trial]
• "Busy Bastard" [6-Week Program]
• Dorian Yates (HIT) vs Jay Cutler (High Volume) - Which is better?

Joe kicks off today's show by explaining why he's pissed off... He then makes up for his "negativity" by giving away a bunch of free supplements and merch! He spends the remainder of the show discussing TRAINING VOLUME... More specifically, "Why the pendulum has currently shifted back towards low volume and whether or not it's TRULY 'better'  for building muscle." If you're someone who prefers the nuanced truth (over 60-second Instagram reels) you're going to love this episode! *For a full list of Show Notes + Timestamps visit www.IndustrialStrengthShow.com.

• IMPORTANT LINKS
• Team Forever Strong [Free Trial!]
• MuscleMAG 300
• Joe D's "Low Volume" IG post
• Jeff Nippard's YouTube video
• FREE Gym Growth Masterclass [Reserve Your Seat & Apply for Scholarship]

Joe kicks off this week's show with 2 very important announcements... He then answers 4 "cardio-related" questions from his audience. Specific topics include: 1) Is the "Norwegian 4x4 protocol" the best training method for someone looking to get in shape/improve their VO2 Max? 2) What is the single best form of cardio? 3) Is a 10-minute HIIT session the same (or better) than 45 minutes of LISS? 4) Should you perform your cardio before or after weight training? *For a full list of Show Notes w/ Timestamps visit www.IndustrialStrengthShow.com.

• IMPORTANT LINKS
• Gym Growth Masterclass [Reserve Your Seat & Apply for Scholarship!]
• Team Forever Strong [7-Day FREE Trial!]

On this week's show Smitty and Joe D. "pull back the curtain" and give the audience a behind-the-scenes look at [what goes into] the creation of a PhD-level training program. From the unique training split, to the exercise selection, to the "secret experiment" Joe conducted on himself... You'll learn it all! If you love knowing the "Why's" behind high-level programming - you're going to love this episode! [NOTE: "Built Different" drops on the Team Forever Strong app Monday, October 20th. You can try it for FREE by clicking HERE.] *For a full list of Show Notes + Timestamps from this episode visit www.IndustrialStrengthShow.com.

• IMPORTANT LINKS
• Team Forever Strong [7-Day Free Trial]
• Follow @defrancosgym on IG
• Follow @smittydiesel on IG
• Magic Spoon

This week Joe answers 4 listener questions. Topics include: 1) The controversy surrounding Dr. Mike Israetel's PhD dissertation 2) The most underrated training split 3) The best program for dropping body fat 4) Who is on Joe's "Mount Rushmore" for trainers/strength coaches? *For a full list of Show Notes + Timestamps visit www.IndustrialStrengthShow.com.

• Important Links
• Team Forever Strong [FREE Trial!]
• Mike Israetel's PhD: The Biggest Academic Sham in Fitness?

This week Joe is solo and he's answering 4 of YOUR questions! Specific topics include: 1) Is eccentric duration important for muscle hypertrophy? (If not, is there EVER a reason to intentionally slow down the eccentric portion of the lift?) 2) What NOT to do [training-wise] if you're looking to build muscle and strength 3) Are glucose monitors beneficial for non-diabetics? Should we be concerned about "insulin spikes" when trying to drop body fat? 4) The best way to sequence exercises for joint health (on a PPL split)...And MORE! *For a full list of Show Notes + Timestamps visit www.IndustrialStrengthShow.com

• IMPORTANT LINKS
• DeFranco's Nutritional Supplements
• Team Forever Strong [FREE Trial]
• Joe's most viral IG post
• Pain-Free Dip technique

This week Joe welcomes Dr. Allan Bacon to the Industrial Strength Show. Dr. Allan holds a Doctorate in Dental Surgery from the University of Maryland. He transitioned from a career as an oral surgeon to become a certified Bodybuilding, Powerlifting & Fitness coach. He's also a certified Nutritionist and has formulated professionally for industry-leading dietary supplement companies since 2009. You can find his published fitness articles in outlets such as Muscle & Fitness, Sci-Fit, the Alan Aragon Research Review, The Personal Trainer Development Center, and more. On today's show you'll hear Dr. Allan discus the nuanced truth about the following topics: 1) Bulking, ie, eating in excess of 500 calories over your maintenance in order to maximize hypertrophy 2) Avoiding vegetables due to their "defense chemicals" 3) Fasting for longevity 4) Time Under Tension ...and More! *For a full list of Show Notes + Timestamps visit www.IndustrialStrengthShow.com.

• IMPORTANT LINKS
• Follow Dr. Allan on Instagram
• Dr. Allan's website
• Dr. Allan's YouTube channel

After a 7-year hiatus, Dr. John Rusin (Founder & CEO of Pain-Free Performance Certifications & author of "Pain-Free Performance") returns to the Industrial Strength Show...and he does NOT disappoint! This episode is jam-packed with wisdom, helpful tips, and actionable advice. Highlights from Joe & John's conversation include: What has changed in John's training (since he last spoke with Joe 7+ years ago?); What does John believe the "barrier for entry" should be to become a [professional] personal trainer?; Top 3 traits of great personal trainers; Top 2 mistakes made by new/inexperienced trainers [CLIENTS BEWARE]; Is there such a thing as a "bad exercise"?; The exercises with the highest ROI; What does a PROPER warm-up consist of?; The nuances of weight vest training [HINT: It ain't all sunshine & rainbows]; "PAIN-FREE PERFORMANCE" - WHO did John write this book for and what does he hope they take away from it...And Much MORE! *For a full list of Show Notes + Timestamps visit www.IndustrialStrengthShow.com

• IMPORTANT LINKS
• FREE Preview of "Pain-Free Performance"
• Get the "Pain-Free Performance" certification
• Follow John on Instagram
• Magic Spoon