How do Marvel actors get their superhero bodies? The trainer for Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson), Ant-Man (Paul Rudd), and Doctor Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch) reveals the industry secrets to actor transformations, steroid use in Hollywood, and the shocking truth behind Paul Rudd’s all-natural physique.

On this episode of the Becoming The 1% Podcast, Brendan Johnston details the training, diet, and mental discipline required to build the physiques for Hollywood's biggest roles. He breaks down the real timeline it takes to achieve these results, the non-negotiable habits that separate the elite from the average, and how you can apply these principles. Discover the mindset needed to overcome genetics, the pressure actors face to maintain their roles, and the training that gets them ready for their iconic shirtless scenes.

Follow Brendan on IG: https://www.instagram.com/brendanjpt/

Chapters:

0:00 Becoming The Official Trainer For Marvel

1:28 My Journey To Training Hollywood Stars

2:55 Training Scarlett Johansson

4:19 Starstruck By The Avengers?

5:24 How Long It Took To Become Marvel's Official Trainer

6:14 Why I Had No Social Media For Years

7:16 The Real Reason Actors Trust Me

8:51 Famous Trainer vs. Trainer Of Famous People

12:15 A Carpenter Is Only As Good As His Tools

14:20 How Actors Train While Filming On Set

15:52 The Insane Pressure of Hollywood Shirtless Scenes

17:35 Zac Efron's 3% Body Fat Transformation

21:22 The Most Impressive Actor Transformation I've Seen

22:24 Paul Rudd's SHOCKING All-Natural Transformation

23:34 The Power Of Non-Negotiable Habits

25:35 You're Never Too Old To Get Ripped

26:16 Why We're All Obsessed With Superhero Physiques

30:00 The Pressure To Stay In Shape For 10+ Years

30:39 Why Padded Muscle Suits Don't Work

33:19 Chris Evans Set The Bar For Superhero Bodies

35:14 Hugh Jackman's Epic 20-Year Wolverine Transformation

38:11 Our Hot Take On "Impossible Beauty Standards"

41:41 Grateful vs. Satisfied: The Mindset of Champions

43:10 The Actor Who Was Already A MONSTER In The Gym

46:46 This Is How You Make The Gym A Habit

50:10 The Unbelievable Strength of a UFC Champion

53:14 The "Crazy" Mindset You NEED To Be A Champion

55:19 How To Compartmentalize Your Life For Success

59:01 Using Fitness To Show A Character's Growth

1:01:22 How Long It REALLY Takes To Get Back In Shape

1:03:24 The One Marvel Actor I Still Want To Train

1:05:14 The Truth About Steroids In Hollywood

1:09:26 The REAL Reason Actors Won't Admit To Steroid Use

1:12:31 Why It's DANGEROUS For Actors To Hide Steroid Use From Trainers

1:15:33 This Is Why Most People Will Never Get Jacked

1:20:59 The Downfall of The Liver King

1:24:21 The Next Marvel Actor I Want To Train

1:26:55 Do Actors Know The Plot Of The Movies?

1:29:15 How Tom Holland Became Spider-Man

1:32:32 Why I'm NOT Allowed On Set During Filming

1:35:13 The Insane Method Acting of Jared Leto

1:41:28 The Dark Side of Being Famous

1:45:20 The #1 Mistake Fans Make When Approaching Celebrities

1:50:21 The Future of Celebrity Training Facilities

Are athletes really ditching the barbell squat for belt squats? On this episode of the Becoming The 1% Podcast, we sit down with Brian Henesey, the creator of SquatMax MD, to explore how this innovative piece of equipment is transforming athletic performance, improving knee health, and reducing injury risks. From NFL contracts to overcoming paralysis and designing cutting-edge products, Brian shares his incredible journey and mission to reshape strength training.

We discuss how SquatMax MD helps athletes develop explosive power, optimize biomechanics, and train smarter for long-term success. This episode dives into the science behind belt squats, ACL injury prevention, and why proper weight progression matters for injury-free strength gains.

Did you know hunters are some of the most powerful allies in wildlife conservation? This episode of the Becoming The 1% Podcast dives deep with Josh and Sarah Bowmar into the untold connection between ethical hunting and protecting endangered species. Josh and Sarah Bowmar, founders of Bowmar Bowhunting, reveal the critical role hunters play in funding anti-poaching efforts, managing ecosystems, and tackling the brutal realities of nature.We discuss the challenges of spear hunting, the ethics of primitive weapons, and the incredible stories of resilience behind grueling hunts. From the fight to save rhinos against a $23 billion global ivory trade to navigating the lion pride hierarchy, this is your inside look at the balance between conservation and hunting. Explore how sustainable hunting drives community education and supports the long-term future of wildlife and habitats.Follow Sarah on IG: https://www.instagram.com/sarah_bowmar/Follow Josh on IG: https://www.instagram.com/joshbowmar/Chapters:0:00 How trophy hunting helps fund wildlife conservation efforts.1:54 Thrills and challenges of hunting with primitive weapons.5:20 Preparing for an intense bear spear hunting experience.6:47 Surprising bear encounter during a rainy hunting trip.9:53 Silent black bear stalks for hours – tracking the untrackable.14:52 Using a spear for ethical hunting – quick, humane, and powerful.16:37 Under Armour, hunting sponsorships, and backlash explained.23:39 Debating hunting ethics – skill over weapon choice.27:56 How hunting supports conservation and educates communities.32:42 Human-wildlife conflicts – elephants, farming, and poaching.37:37 Rhino poaching, the ivory trade, and funding anti-poaching efforts.43:47 Hunting’s role in wildlife management on private lands.48:33 The harsh realities of death in the wild and poaching tactics.55:58 Hunting’s necessity in maintaining ecosystems and wildlife balance.1:00:32 Rogue lions and the brutal dynamics of lion prides.1:04:48 Challenges and dangers of hunting massive animals like hippos.1:09:20 Archery tips and fitness for successful hunting adventures.1:14:02 Grizzly bear hunting and behind-the-scenes strategies.1:15:19 From veganism to ethical hunting – focusing on animal welfare.1:19:42 Turkey hunting trips, travel stress, and unique experiences.1:23:53 Big game hunting stories and record-breaking moments in Tanzania.1:26:51 Thrilling crocodile hunting after years of searching.1:31:00 Fitness and endurance – key to bow hunting success.1:37:06 Wild game nutrition – better for fitness and health.1:39:56 Journalism misrepresentation and its personal repercussions.1:45:35 Using social platforms to promote wildlife conservation awareness.1:48:32 Giving back – food donations and community support efforts.1:52:51 Embracing controversy to spark engagement and discussion.1:56:50 Closing thoughts – Conservation, hunting, and broader perspectives.

Go behind the scenes of skydiving—training, competitions, safety, mindset—and celebrate the rise of women in the sport, including aerial legend Amy Chmelecki, Red Bull Air Force trailblazer and record-holder. Hear expert tips, real stories, and what it takes to jump with confidence.-Guest IG account:Amy Chmeleckihttps://www.instagram.com/amychmelecki/-Chapters00:00 The Evolving World of Skydiving Competitions02:52 The Impact of Indoor Skydiving on Training05:30 Physical Demands and Fitness in Skydiving08:23 Safety and Risks in Skydiving11:13 Coaching and Instruction in Skydiving12:55 Coaching and Military Skydiving Training14:00 Team Skydiving Dynamics and Communication15:00 The Thrill of Pyrotechnics in Skydiving17:26 Accidents and Learning from Mistakes20:06 Mental Health and Skydiving21:54 The Importance of Mental Preparedness23:59 Fear and Risk in Extreme Sports25:01 Stadium Jumps: Precision and Challenges26:29 Wind Conditions and Safety Protocols27:33 High Altitude Jumping: Risks and Regulations29:53 Experiencing Hypoxia: Personal Stories and Training30:56 Base Jumping and Wingsuiting: Future Aspirations31:43 Leadership in Skydiving: Running for the Board33:13 Partnership with Red Bull: A Journey of Growth35:03 Women in Skydiving: Statistics and Progress-Follow us on our other social media platforms:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@strictvisionathleticsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/strict_vision_athleticsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/becomingtheonepercentpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/brandon.fougniesWebsite: https://strictvisionathletics.com/

In this episode, stand-up comedian Drew Dunn joins us for a wide-ranging conversation on the state of comedy, the rise (and backlash) of crowd work, and the challenge of staying authentic in a social media-driven world. We also dive into the strange world of modern wellness—from extreme longevity trends to the declining quality of our food—and explore how comedians are uniquely positioned to call out the absurdity.Get ready for honest takes, sharp humor, and a look at how comedy intersects with culture, health, and everything in between.-Guest IG account:Drew Dunnhttps://www.instagram.com/drewdunncomedy/Tour Dates and Specials:https://linktr.ee/DrewDunnComedy-00:00 The Controversy of Crowd Work in Comedy03:07 The Evolution of Stand-Up Comedy06:01 The Role of Authenticity in Comedy09:01 Navigating Cancel Culture and Comedy11:58 The Impact of Social Media on Comedy15:00 The Future of Comedy and Content Creation21:42 The Quest for Immortality24:30 Health vs. Longevity: A Philosophical Debate25:40 The Extremes of Health Trends27:09 The Influence of Social Media on Health Choices30:11 The Role of Comedians in Modern Discourse32:24 Corporate Responsibility and Health34:10 The Deterioration of Food Quality36:24 The Absurdity of Modern Food Practices-Follow us on our other social media platforms:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@strictvisionathleticsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/strict_vision_athleticsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/becomingtheonepercentpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/brandon.fougniesWebsite: https://strictvisionathletics.com/

In this episode, we sit down with Shalin Shah - The Metabolic CEO. He's a Thought Leader and Speaker in Testosterone and Longevity, and CEO of Marius Pharma.We’re breaking down the truth behind testosterone therapy — myths, science, access, and why it matters for both men and women. From oral vs. injectable to the Testosterone Project, it’s all here.Don’t miss this powerful conversation that could change how you see hormone health.-Guest IG account:Shalin Shah https://www.instagram.com/themetabolicceo/The Testosterone Projecthttps://testosteroneproject.com/ReThink Testosteronehttps://www.rethinktestosterone.com/-00:00 Community Connection at Sobermac Summit01:22 Journey into Testosterone Replacement Therapy04:31 The Rise of Testosterone Deficiency09:00 Understanding Testosterone: Beyond Bodybuilding13:45 The Economic Implications of Testosterone Therapy18:22 Testosterone and Women's Health21:05 The Impact of Environmental Factors on Testosterone Levels24:23 Oral vs. Injectable Testosterone: A New Paradigm32:54 Understanding Oral vs. Injectable Testosterone34:59 The Future of Testosterone Therapy37:18 The Role of HCG in Testosterone Therapy40:54 Dispelling Myths About Testosterone45:53 The Risks and Benefits of Testosterone Therapy51:23 The Testosterone Project: Advocacy and Education

We talk with a strong and inspiring powerlifter who overcame tough challenges, including a rare bone disease and serious injuries. Her story shows how strength and courage can lead to success. We talk about how to recover from injuries, how to get stronger safely, and how more women are making their mark in fitness.We also discuss about how fitness can help your mind and emotions, not just your body. The conversation touches on how social media affects mental health, how coaches help people grow, and why being open and working together matters in the fitness world today.Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or just someone who loves fitness, this episode gives real stories, helpful tips, and a look at what it really means to get stronger—inside and out.-Guest IG account:Naomi Sheppardhttps://www.instagram.com/naomi.phoenixperformance-00:00 The Journey Begins: Overcoming Challenges in Powerlifting02:45 Injury and Recovery: The Road to Resilience06:08 Training Regimens: Balancing Intensity and Recovery09:12 Empowerment Through Strength: The Role of Women in Fitness12:05 Injury Prevention and Management: Lessons Learned15:05 The Evolution of Women's Fitness: Breaking Stereotypes17:56 The Science of Strength: Understanding Training Dynamics26:15 Breaking Down Gender Myths in Fitness29:35 The Universal Benefits of Fitness30:41 The Role of Coaches in Personal Development37:24 The Evolution of Elite FTS and Powerlifting39:59 Collaboration in a Saturated Market41:00 The Power of Vulnerability in the Fitness Community43:01 Training Insights and Competition Experiences56:09 Efficiency in Powerlifting Training56:26 The Importance of Varied Training in Powerlifting01:01:52 Longevity and Health in Powerlifting01:05:20 Diet vs. Training: The Greater Challenge01:10:31 Shifting Social Norms: Alcohol and Food Culture01:15:11 The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health-Follow us on our other social media platforms:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@strictvisionathleticsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/strict_vision_athleticsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/becomingtheonepercentpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/brandon.fougniesWebsite: https://strictvisionathletics.com/

We caught up with a trainer who made the switch from chasing heavy lifts to chasing lasting results. After dealing with some tough injuries, he realized it’s not just about how much you lift—it’s about how well you move and how good you feel.

If you're looking to train smarter, stay healthy, and actually enjoy the process, this one's for you.-Guest IG account:Lucas Hardiehttps://www.instagram.com/rangeofstrength-00:00 Journey into Strength and Conditioning02:54 Injuries and the Powerlifting Lifestyle06:06 Transitioning to New Training Modalities09:03 Exploring Flexibility and Mobility Training12:09 The Importance of Goals in Training14:57 Finding Balance in Training Modalities18:05 The Role of Coaches in Training21:06 The Impact of Lifestyle on Training24:10 Old School Training Methods and Their Relevance37:46 Old-School Training Techniques43:36 The Evolution of Strength Training49:17 The Role of Machines in Modern Training53:28 Nutrition's Impact on Training and Health