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  • Larry Wheels with John Gaglione | The Power of Resilience

    Larry Wheels with John Gaglione | The Power of Resilience
    2025/11/05
    This is something of a follow-up to episode 491 with John Gaglione about the training environment. This time, Larry Wheels, who was coached by John and has become an iconic figure in the fitness world, joins (from Russia!).

    In this conversation, Larry Wheels Williams discusses his journey in powerlifting, emphasizing the importance of resilience, communication, and mental preparation. He reflects on the setbacks he faced, particularly the feeling of bombing out of competitions, which ignited his determination to succeed. The dialogue explores how effective communication with coaches and teammates can enhance performance and the mental strategies that athletes can employ to prepare for competitions.

    You can find Larry on Instagram @larrywheels https://www.instagram.com/larry wheels

    You can find John on Instagram @gaglionestrength https://www.instagram.com/gaglionestrength/

    All the info for the strict curl competition at Larry Wheels’ gym in California> https://meets.revolutionpowerlifting.com/2026/01/17/larry-wheels-west-coast-curl/

    Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/!

    Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/ 50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. ____ Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523)

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.
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    1 時間 3 分
  • Mission-driven Fitness | Guest Kevin Meier (@purebullfit)

    Mission-driven Fitness | Guest Kevin Meier (@purebullfit)
    2025/10/29
    In this conversation, Jim McDonald speaks with Kevin Meier, a former Marine, video game character, and fitness coach, about his journey from military service to the fitness industry. Kevin has survived and learned to cope with a devastating accidental injury.

    Through his employment at Blizzard Entertainment, he met someone who was critical to recovering his his strength and physical capabilities. He also came to understand that he had to find a life mission and let it chart his path.

    They discuss the importance of community-driven fitness initiatives, the value of low-cost resources, and personal transformation stories. Kevin shares his experiences with mental health, PTSD, and the challenges of the fitness industry, emphasizing the need for critical thinking and authenticity. The conversation highlights the potential of future generations to challenge existing norms and create positive change in the fitness landscape.

    You can find Kevin on Instagram @purebullfit https://www.instagram.com/purebullfit

    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction to Kevin's Journey
    05:42 Community-Driven Fitness Initiatives
    11:32 Military Experience and Its Impact
    17:16 Finding Purpose Through Strength Training
    23:57 The Importance of Authentic Connections
    29:06 Reflections on Life and Relationships
    38:47 Impact and Authenticity in Life
    45:56 Transitioning to Coaching and Mentorship
    54:48 Personal Accountability and Growth
    01:00:35 Critique of the Fitness Industry
    01:08:23 Future Generations and Critical Thinking


    Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/!
    Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/

    50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network.
    ____
    Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/

    Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523)

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.
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    1 時間 17 分
  • John Gaglione: The Evolution of Powerlifting Culture

    John Gaglione: The Evolution of Powerlifting Culture
    2025/10/22
    John Gaglione joins to discuss the evolution of powerlifting, coaching philosophies, and the importance of community in strength training. They explore the challenges of weight loss expectations, the significance of performance goals, and the shift in training approaches over the years. John shares his experiences in bodybuilding and the impact it had on his powerlifting journey, while also emphasizing the need for realistic expectations in fitness. The discussion also touches on the rise of strict curl competitions and the accessibility of strength sports, highlighting the importance of making fitness enjoyable and sustainable for everyone.

    You can find John on Instagram @gaglionestrength https://www.instagram.com/gaglionestrength/

    All the info for the strict curl competition at Larry Wheels’ gym in California> https://meets.revolutionpowerlifting.com/2026/01/17/larry-wheels-west-coast-curl/

    Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/!
    Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/
    50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. ____

    Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/
    Produced by Jim McDonald
    Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523)

    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction and Background
    02:02 Powerlifting Journey and Coaching Philosophy
    05:55 Bodybuilding Experience and Personal Goals
    10:06 Realistic Expectations in Weight Loss
    13:51 Lifestyle Changes and Community Support
    17:57 Training Culture and Powerlifting Evolution
    21:35 The Role of Coaching in Powerlifting
    27:50 Long-Term Goals and Consistency
    36:36 The Importance of Realistic Coaching Expectations
    39:38 The Dark Side of Bodybuilding Coaching
    40:21 The Evolution of Powerlifting Training Methods
    43:12 Long-Term Health in Strength Sports
    45:47 The Balance Between Competition and Longevity
    48:38 The Future of Strength Training and Coaching
    50:40 The Rise of Strict Curl Competitions
    01:06:26 Promoting Strength Sports Accessibility

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.
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    1 時間 11 分
  • Comedian Nick Scopoletti

    Comedian Nick Scopoletti
    2025/10/01
    Comedian (and personal training manager) Nick Scopoletti returns to chat about growing his comedy career, working with Lisa Lampanelli, managing personal trainers, and how his personal warmth has been kind of a cheat code.

    You can find Nick on Instagram @nickscopes https://www.instagram.com/nickscopes/ and as Lisa Lampanelli’s sidekick on her podcast, Shrink This https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shrink-this-with-lisa-lampanelli/id1819746873

    The AI generated summary

    In this engaging conversation, Jim McDonald and Nick Scopoletti explore themes of friendship, cynicism, personal growth, and the comedy journey. They reflect on their experiences in the fitness industry, the impact of COVID, and the importance of networking in the comedy scene. The discussion also touches on family dynamics, wealth, and the challenges of managing people in the workplace. Throughout the conversation, they share humorous anecdotes and insights, emphasizing the value of perseverance and self-discovery in both personal and professional realms.

    Chapters
    00:00 Warm Connections and Cynical Reflections
    03:05 The Comedy Journey: Struggles and Triumphs
    05:50 Navigating Life's Changes: Comedy and Personal Growth
    08:46 The Impact of COVID-19 on Mental Health
    11:49 Family Dynamics and Personal Insights
    14:38 The Reality of Working in the Fitness Industry
    17:40 Acting, Comedy, and Authenticity
    20:40 Nostalgia and Cultural Identity
    23:26 Creative Outlets and Self-Expression
    31:48 Expo Experiences and Bodybuilding Culture
    35:44 Managing a Fitness Team
    39:44 Clientele Development in Boutique Gyms
    44:39 Wealth, Work Ethic, and Personal Growth
    50:08 Networking and Social Media Surprises
    55:58 Memorable Encounters with Icons

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.
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    1 時間 4 分
  • Things that make dieting hard (plus some influencers who are getting it right)| Guest: Jerry Molinero

    Things that make dieting hard (plus some influencers who are getting it right)| Guest: Jerry Molinero
    2025/09/25
    Jerry Molinero, one of our trainers here at Third Street Barbell, joins to talk about losing over 100 lbs and some of the habits, foods, and situations that make dieting harder.

    We also discuss a few influencers we think are getting it right on social media.

    You can find him on Instagram @jerrykilos https://www.instagram.com/jerrykilos

    Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com!
    Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/!
    Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/
    50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network.

    Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/
    Produced by Jim McDonald
    Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523)

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.
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    1 時間 15 分
  • Navigating Parenthood and Performance | Guest: Jonathan Gregg

    Navigating Parenthood and Performance | Guest: Jonathan Gregg
    2025/09/17
    In this conversation, Jim McDonald and Jonathan Gregg explore a variety of themes, including parenting, the dynamics of living in New York City, the journey of performance and acting, mental health, and the impact of social media on personal identity. They discuss the importance of authenticity, the role of anger in society, and the significance of personal growth. The conversation also touches on fitness and the unique experiences of being a stay-at-home dad, as well as the cultural commentary that arises from their respective experiences.

    (Experimenting with AI-generated show notes on this one. No idea if it will make any difference in discoverability.)

    Jonathan is the only guest who has both been on this show and appeared in the MCU (Jessica Jones). Also, he's the only guest whose whole ass I've actually seen (HBO's High Maintenance, Season 2, Episode 1). He's super cool, and I could have kept talking to him a long time, but I'd already made him run late. You can catch Jonathan and his best friend, Tom on the No Homo Podcast -- Two best friends (one straight and one gay) riff on their daily lives, the insanity of current events, and what it means to be a man – gassing each other up while the world burns. (Jonathan is the straight one.) https://www.youtube.com/@NoHomoPodcastwJonathanandTom

    You can find him on Instagram @jgregg_jonathan and @nohomopod.

    Takeaways
    Learning how to learn is crucial for personal development.
    Anger often masks deeper emotions like sadness or fear.
    Parenting involves navigating societal norms and expectations.
    Mental health discussions should be normalized and destigmatized.
    Improv can teach valuable life skills like adaptability and listening.
    Social media can amplify voices but also create pressure for validation.
    Authenticity in content creation resonates more with audiences.
    Fitness can be a form of personal expression and growth.
    Cultural commentary is essential in understanding societal dynamics.
    Personal growth often comes from recognizing and addressing one's own flaws.

    Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com!

    Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/!

    Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/

    50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network.

    ____

    Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523)


    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.
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    1 時間 17 分
  • David Thomas Tao

    David Thomas Tao
    2025/09/03
    David Tao returns to the show to take us inside the world of theater production and spirits (not the BOO!) kind. Following up his role as the successful CEO of Barbend.com, David has taken on two new roles he’s passionate about: producing theater in New York, and writing about spirits – primarily whiskey and bourbon. He discusses the role of a producer and gives us an inside view of the process of selecting and developing a show for the stage. He also gives tips on how to find out spirits you enjoy, and how to develop a discerning palate (and have fun while doing it).

    You can find David on Instagram @davidthomastao https://www.instagram.com/davidthomastao and on X @d-tao https://x.com/d_tao. Give him a follow. He's got great content every day.

    Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com!

    Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/!

    50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network.

    Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/

    ____ Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523)



    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.
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    1 時間
  • Fit for TV: The Reality of the Biggest Loser | 50% Facts Review

    Fit for TV: The Reality of the Biggest Loser | 50% Facts Review
    2025/08/27
    From 2009 to 2020, The Biggest Loser was a phenomenon. A huge cultural moment.

    What it wasn’t, however, was a show about healthy lifestyles and healthy weight loss.

    Netflix’s Fit for TV: The Reality of the Biggest Loser examines what it was like for some contestants on the show and some members of the production. The push to keep the show in the spotlight wreaked havoc on lives, relationships, and, in some cases, health. Does the documentary series exploit the contestants in a similar way to the show did?

    Josh Hajjar, who has personal experience with significant weight loss, joins in as guest cohost. You can find Josh on Instagram @amazingjrab https://www.instagram.com/amazingjrab/.

    Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com!

    Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/!

    Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/

    50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network.

    ____

    Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523)



    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.
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    41 分