Strength Academy Podcast

By Nick Byom

Strength 101 host Nick Byom, owner of Strength Academy, discusses the "why" behind all your strength training, muscle building, and weight loss questions.

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FAQs about Strength Academy Podcast:

How many episodes does Strength Academy Podcast have?

The podcast currently has 64 episodes available.

Strength Academy Podcast episodes:

January 01, 2026 The Real Reason You're Stalling in the Gym
In this episode of Strength 101, Nick breaks down one of the biggest reasons people stall out in the gym: bad exercise selection. He explains that while there are many ways to train and still get results, too much “random variation” can kill progress—especially if your goal is strength and muscle mass. This is Part 1 of a two-part series, focused on building a simple framework for choosing exercises that actually work.
Nick introduces the core concept behind growth: mechanical tension—the signal your muscles get when you’re pushing hard enough that reps slow down and approach failure. From there, he lays out a simple checklist for picking the best exercises: they should be easy to learn, easy to load, and safe to push close to failure. He uses examples like Olympic lifts, Bosu ball squats, and overly complex “Instagram exercises” to show how instability and high skill requirements can limit load and reduce muscle-building potential.
The takeaway is clear: if you want real progress, stop chasing fancy variations and start chasing exercises that allow progressive overload with high effort. Whether you’re writing your own program or judging one you found online, this episode gives you a practical filter to build smarter workouts—and sets up Part 2, where Nick will explain how often you should actually change your training.
https://www.strengthacademyrf.com
Connect 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/UA723379
Build muscle and strength from your local or home gym with our flagship Iron Hour program or request a personalized program that fits your specific goals. Make exercise substitutions on the fly to match the equipment you have, send questions to your coach, and pop into the community forum to discuss your training with others doing the same workouts – all from your phone!
Connect with Nick & Matraca on Social Media:
➡︎ / https://www.instagram.com/nick__byom?igsh=cTdvZHdodWk3NGZx
➡︎ / https://www.instagram.com/matracafit?igsh=MTVpNml5enpmYWVkZQ==
#strengthacademy #justshowup #strength101podcast
...more
21min
December 18, 2025 Creatine Explained: Benefits, Safety, and How to Use It
In 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 avoid it, and how to properly dose it without overcomplicating things with loading phases or gimmicks.
By the end of the episode, listeners walk away with a clear takeaway: creatine isn’t magic, but it’s one of the safest and most effective tools you can use if your training is already dialed in. Whether you’re brand new to lifting or a coach educating clients, this episode cuts through the noise and delivers the facts.
https://www.strengthacademyrf.com
Connect 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/UA723379
Build muscle and strength from your local or home gym with our flagship Iron Hour program or request a personalized program that fits your specific goals. Make exercise substitutions on the fly to match the equipment you have, send questions to your coach, and pop into the community forum to discuss your training with others doing the same workouts – all from your phone!
Connect with Nick & Matraca on Social Media:
➡︎ / https://www.instagram.com/nick__byom?igsh=cTdvZHdodWk3NGZx
➡︎ / https://www.instagram.com/matracafit?igsh=MTVpNml5enpmYWVkZQ==
#strengthacademy #justshowup #strength101podcast
...more
20min
December 11, 2025 Personal 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 spent thousands.
https://www.strengthacademyrf.com
Connect 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/UA723379
Build muscle and strength from your local or home gym with our flagship Iron Hour program or request a personalized program that fits your specific goals. Make exercise substitutions on the fly to match the equipment you have, send questions to your coach, and pop into the community forum to discuss your training with others doing the same workouts – all from your phone!
Connect with Nick & Matraca on Social Media:
➡︎ / https://www.instagram.com/nick__byom?igsh=cTdvZHdodWk3NGZx
➡︎ / https://www.instagram.com/matracafit?igsh=MTVpNml5enpmYWVkZQ==
#strengthacademy #justshowup #strength101podcast
...more
15min
December 04, 2025 The Two Wolves Story: How Your Choices Shape Your Life
Inside 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.com
Connect 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/UA723379
Build muscle and strength from your local or home gym with our flagship Iron Hour program or request a personalized program that fits your specific goals. Make exercise substitutions on the fly to match the equipment you have, send questions to your coach, and pop into the community forum to discuss your training with others doing the same workouts – all from your phone!
Connect with Nick & Matraca on Social Media:
➡︎ / https://www.instagram.com/nick__byom?igsh=cTdvZHdodWk3NGZx
➡︎ / https://www.instagram.com/matracafit?igsh=MTVpNml5enpmYWVkZQ==
#strengthacademy #justshowup #strength101podcast
...more
14min
November 20, 2025 Want Abs? Start Doing This Instead of Planks
Welcome 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 structure influence your ab appearance — so you know exactly what’s in your control and what isn’t.
If you’ve ever wondered why you can train abs every day and still not see them, this episode gives you the complete roadmap.
📌 Topics Covered: • The 4 ab muscles that matter • Why “flexion-based” training builds the six-pack • How to train obliques for a framed, aesthetic midsection • Why planks don’t build muscular abs • The true role of body fat percentage • How genetics affect ab shape and number • Loaded vs. fatigue ab training • How to finally make your abs visible
https://www.strengthacademyrf.com
Connect 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/UA723379
Build muscle and strength from your local or home gym with our flagship Iron Hour program or request a personalized program that fits your specific goals. Make exercise substitutions on the fly to match the equipment you have, send questions to your coach, and pop into the community forum to discuss your training with others doing the same workouts – all from your phone!
Connect with Nick & Matraca on Social Media:
➡︎ / https://www.instagram.com/nick__byom?igsh=cTdvZHdodWk3NGZx
➡︎ / https://www.instagram.com/matracafit?igsh=MTVpNml5enpmYWVkZQ==
#strengthacademy #justshowup #strength101podcast
...more
21min
November 13, 2025 Can Kettlebells Really Build Muscle?
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, intensity, and consistency.
Whether you’re a coach, a seasoned lifter, or just someone wondering if that 35-pound bell in the corner is worth picking up, this episode proves that when used right, kettlebells can be one of the most effective (and underappreciated) tools for building serious muscle.
https://www.strengthacademyrf.com
Connect 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/UA723379
Build muscle and strength from your local or home gym with our flagship Iron Hour program or request a personalized program that fits your specific goals. Make exercise substitutions on the fly to match the equipment you have, send questions to your coach, and pop into the community forum to discuss your training with others doing the same workouts – all from your phone!
Connect with Nick & Matraca on Social Media:
➡︎ / https://www.instagram.com/nick__byom?igsh=cTdvZHdodWk3NGZx
➡︎ / https://www.instagram.com/matracafit?igsh=MTVpNml5enpmYWVkZQ==
#strengthacademy #justshowup #strength101podcast
...more
19min
November 06, 2025 We Answered the Most Common Fitness Questions
In 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 impacts metabolism, why you can’t “tone” without lifting, and how to stop comparing your journey to everyone else’s.
Whether you’re new to the gym or a coach helping others get started, this episode is your crash course in simplifying the most confusing parts of fitness — with a little humor to keep it real.
https://www.strengthacademyrf.com
Connect 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/UA723379
Build muscle and strength from your local or home gym with our flagship Iron Hour program or request a personalized program that fits your specific goals. Make exercise substitutions on the fly to match the equipment you have, send questions to your coach, and pop into the community forum to discuss your training with others doing the same workouts – all from your phone!
Connect with Nick & Matraca on Social Media:
➡︎ / https://www.instagram.com/nick__byom?igsh=cTdvZHdodWk3NGZx
➡︎ / https://www.instagram.com/matracafit?igsh=MTVpNml5enpmYWVkZQ==
#strengthacademy #justshowup #strength101podcast
...more
27min
October 30, 2025 The Biggest Fitness Myths You Still Believe
In 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 entertainment, with plenty of moments that’ll make you rethink what you see on social media.
Whether you’re a dedicated lifter, a new gym member, or just tired of fitness misinformation, this episode proves that not everything you see online deserves a flex.
https://www.strengthacademyrf.com
Connect 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/UA723379
Build muscle and strength from your local or home gym with our flagship Iron Hour program or request a personalized program that fits your specific goals. Make exercise substitutions on the fly to match the equipment you have, send questions to your coach, and pop into the community forum to discuss your training with others doing the same workouts – all from your phone!
Connect with Nick & Matraca on Social Media:
➡︎ / https://www.instagram.com/nick__byom?igsh=cTdvZHdodWk3NGZx
➡︎ / https://www.instagram.com/matracafit?igsh=MTVpNml5enpmYWVkZQ==
#strengthacademy #justshowup #strength101podcast
...more
30min
October 28, 2025 Trailer 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 the games, the friendship, or just to laugh along, this one proves why every episode feels like you’re hanging out with your funniest gym friends.
It’s not just a podcast — it’s pure personality.
https://www.strengthacademyrf.com
Connect 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/UA723379
Build muscle and strength from your local or home gym with our flagship Iron Hour program or request a personalized program that fits your specific goals. Make exercise substitutions on the fly to match the equipment you have, send questions to your coach, and pop into the community forum to discuss your training with others doing the same workouts – all from your phone!
Connect with Nick & Matraca on Social Media:
➡︎ / https://www.instagram.com/nick__byom?igsh=cTdvZHdodWk3NGZx
➡︎ / https://www.instagram.com/matracafit?igsh=MTVpNml5enpmYWVkZQ==
#strengthacademy #justshowup #strength101podcast
...more
1h 7min
October 23, 2025 Breaking Down the Programming: Hercules Edition
In 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.
Listeners will also learn why the Hercules cycle incorporates sumo deadlifts, front rack squats, and double kettlebell power cleans, and how accessories like Copenhagen planks, ATG split squats, and Jefferson curls keep joints healthy and strong. Whether you’re chasing your first pull-up, a heavier squat, or total-body power, this episode shows how Hercules was built to make you stronger — the smart way.
https://www.strengthacademyrf.com
Connect 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/UA723379
Build muscle and strength from your local or home gym with our flagship Iron Hour program or request a personalized program that fits your specific goals. Make exercise substitutions on the fly to match the equipment you have, send questions to your coach, and pop into the community forum to discuss your training with others doing the same workouts – all from your phone!
Connect with Nick & Matraca on Social Media:
➡︎ / https://www.instagram.com/nick__byom?igsh=cTdvZHdodWk3NGZx
➡︎ / https://www.instagram.com/matracafit?igsh=MTVpNml5enpmYWVkZQ==
#strengthacademy #justshowup #strength101podcast
...more
28min

FAQs about Strength Academy Podcast:

How many episodes does Strength Academy Podcast have?

The podcast currently has 64 episodes available.