In this special edition of the Strong New York podcast, Kenny Santucci travels to Ohio for The Arnold Sports Festival and meets up with Dr. Mike Israetel, co-founder of RP Strength. With a doctorate in Sport Physiology and extensive experience in fitness and performance, Dr. Mike has taught at several universities and served as a sports nutrition consultant for the U.S. Olympic Training Site. He’s shared his expertise at global conferences, including seminars at the U.S. Olympic Training Center in Lake Placid, and continues to push his limits as a competitive bodybuilder and professional Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu grappler.

In this episode, Kenny and Dr. Mike discuss the evolution of fitness education, from in-person seminars to digital platforms, and the importance of practical, hands-on learning in real-world coaching. Dr. Mike shares his insights on bodybuilding, Jiu-Jitsu, and the dedication needed to excel in both sports. They also explore modern training trends, the vital role of nutrition, and the growing influence of social media in fitness. Tune in for an in-depth conversation on what it takes to achieve excellence in personal fitness and coaching others.

00:00 Welcome to the Strong New York Podcast

00:57 The Evolution of Fitness Education

02:20 The Importance of Practical Experience

04:04 Bodybuilding vs. Just Lifting

05:12 The Discipline of Bodybuilding

08:07 The Brutality of Weight Management Sports

11:48 Diet and Long-Term Health in Bodybuilding

14:04 Alcohol and Fitness Lifestyle

16:49 Feeling Good Through Clean Eating

17:46 Social Media Fame and Connections

18:47 Celebrity Crushes and Preferences

20:31 Passion for Jiu Jitsu

25:09 Balancing Work and Personal Life

27:14 Marketing and Success Strategies

29:25 Fun Q&A and Closing Remarks