In this episode of The Strong New York Podcast, Kenny sits down with Vincent Pitstick — a health expert, author, and pioneer in functional nutrition — who has helped thousands transform their lives through a holistic and personalized approach to wellness.

With over 18 years of experience in health and fitness, Vincent takes us on a deep dive into the roots of modern health challenges, the flaws of mainstream diet culture, and how emotional addiction often holds people back from true transformation. He shares key insights from his groundbreaking new book, The Flush Method, and explains how community, mindset training, and functional medicine play a critical role in sustainable weight loss and long-term well-being.

Whether you're a coach, athlete, or someone looking to reclaim control of your health, this episode offers game-changing strategies that could redefine your approach to fitness and healing.

00:00 Welcome to the Strong New York Podcast

00:14 Introducing Vincent Pitstick

00:45 The Importance of Real Success Stories

01:15 Commitment and Consistency in Fitness

01:45 The History and Evolution of Weight Loss

03:14 The Role of Community in Fitness

06:09 Functional Medicine and Root Cause Analysis

10:32 The Impact of Emotional Addiction

14:21 The Pursuit of Dopamine and Addiction

17:06 Understanding the Body's Ecosystem

17:29 Dopamine and Its Effects

18:06 The Struggle with Dopamine Deficiency

21:06 The Role of Community and Support

24:53 The Importance of Consistency and Investment

28:27 Innovative Health Solutions and Programs

31:06 The Flush Method and Metabolic Optimization

37:50 Conclusion and Resources

In this episode of The Strong New York Podcast, host Kenny Santucci sits down with Christian Toetzke, the visionary founder and CEO of HYROX—the global fitness race that's redefining competition. Christian shares the incredible story of how HYROX evolved from a niche pop-up to an international movement with nearly a million participants worldwide.

They dive into the inspiration behind the hybrid fitness concept, the challenges of scaling massive events across continents, and how the team navigated the pandemic to come back stronger than ever. From business strategy to community impact, Christian offers a rare inside look at what it takes to build a brand that's changing the fitness landscape.

Whether you're an athlete, entrepreneur, or fitness fan, this episode is packed with motivation and insight. Tune in to hear how HYROX is raising the bar—and how you can be part of the movement.  Listen now and get inspired to #LiveFit with HYROX.

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message

00:19 Meeting Christian Toetzke: The Birth of Hyrox

01:00 Creating the Hybrid Athlete

01:56 The Purpose Behind Hyrox

03:34 The Genesis of Hyrox

07:19 Navigating the Challenges of COVID-19

12:21 Post-COVID Success and Expansion

15:42 Future Plans and Innovations

18:32 Entertainment Value in Sports

19:26 Consistency in Hyrox

24:25 Natural Movements and Inclusivity

27:04 Celebrity Participation and Community Impact

30:20 Logistics and Future Plans

35:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this solo episode of the Strong New York Podcast, host Kenny Santucci takes the mic to reflect, share, and get real. Kenny dives into what’s coming up for the Strong New York health and wellness festival on September 27th, opens up with personal stories, and reveals how the movement first began. He talks about the power of collaboration, the mindset that keeps him going, and his journey through various fitness routines and nutrition strategies. Tune in for an honest, inspiring, and energizing episode straight from the source. 

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Shoutout

00:15 Welcome to the Strong New York Podcast

00:34 Peach Vibe Review

01:28 Strong New York Event Overview

02:41 Challenges of Organizing Fitness Events

03:58 Partnerships and Collaborations

05:09 The Story Behind Strong New York

06:36 The Stone Soup Story

08:58 The Importance of Collaboration

11:53 Men's Night Event Experience

22:25 Nutrition and Training Insights

26:39 The Role of AI in Event Planning

27:35 Terrible Therapy Experience

28:14 Finding Solace in Physical Activity

29:21 Networking with Creators

30:42 Opportunities in Content Creation

31:22 Bizarre Online Trends

38:20 Cultural Differences in Food Quality

41:36 Upcoming Podcast Guests and Events

44:24 Closing Remarks and Sponsor Shoutout

In this episode of the Strong New York Podcast, host Kenny Santucci sits down with Carl Daikeler — visionary entrepreneur, CEO, and co-founder of The Beachbody Company (now BODi) — for an inspiring conversation about the evolution of fitness, entrepreneurship, and the power of community.

This episode dives deep into Carl’s four-decade journey in health and wellness, from the early days of infomercials to building one of the most recognized fitness empires in the world. Carl reflects on the creation of game-changing programs like P90X, Insanity, and Shakeology, and shares his perspective on navigating the modern fitness landscape shaped by AI, technology, and shifting consumer habits.

As a Tony Award-winning Broadway producer, podcast host, and tech investor, Carl offers unique insights into creativity, leadership, and staying true to your mission in a fast-changing world. Whether you're a fitness professional, entrepreneur, or just passionate about personal growth, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

Learn more about BODi: https://www.bodi.com/

Follow Carl on IG: https://www.instagram.com/carldaikeler/

Connect with Carl on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daikeler-carl/

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Shoutout

00:25 Meet Carl Daikeler: The Man Behind Beachbody

01:10 The Birth of 8-Minute Abs

02:16 Infomercial Landscape and Fitness Trends

03:30 Creating Legitimate Fitness Programs

04:49 The Rise of Celebrity Trainers

08:34 The Success of P90X

15:43 The Importance of Fitness and Overcoming Comfort

21:08 Carl's Journey and Passion for Fitness

28:30 Innovative Fitness Programs and Business Insights

32:51 Autumn Calabrese's Impact on Fitness Programs

33:45 The Success of 21 Day Fix

35:00 The Rise of Sean T and Insanity

39:12 Transition to Digital and the Pandemic Boom

45:10 Rebranding from Beachbody to Body

50:37 Challenges and Future of Fitness Industry

01:03:48 The Role of AI in Fitness

01:09:26 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of The Strong New York Podcast, host Kenny Santucci sits down with two fitness industry legends—Joe DeFranco and Chris Tutela—for an honest, insightful conversation about what it takes to build, run, and grow a successful gym.

Joe DeFranco is a world-renowned strength and conditioning coach and the founder of DeFranco’s Gym. For over 20 years, he’s trained elite athletes from the NFL, WWE, UFC, and beyond. Joe helped revolutionize the garage/warehouse gym model and built a globally recognized brand known for performance, innovation, and impact. His work has been featured on ESPN, Men’s Health, and in The 4-Hour Body, and he continues to educate through his podcast The Industrial Strength Show and the CPPS certification program.

Chris Tutela is a coach, speaker, author, and gym business mentor. He’s the owner of Tutela Training Systems in New Jersey and co-founder of The Iron Business Blueprint, where he helps gym owners grow profitable, purpose-driven businesses. Chris is known for his no-nonsense approach to personal development, leadership, and helping others unlock their full potential—on the gym floor and in life.

Together, they share their journeys, lessons from decades in the industry, and strategies for creating strong gym cultures, retaining clients, and marketing in today’s landscape. Whether you’re a trainer, gym owner, or fitness enthusiast, this episode is packed with real talk and actionable takeaways.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:19 Guest Introductions and Backgrounds

01:00 Starting and Growing a Gym Business

03:38 Training Philosophy and Methods

07:19 Challenges and Evolution in the Fitness Industry

10:54 Marketing and Business Strategies

13:21 The Importance of Community and Personal Connection

17:43 Hiring and Training Quality Staff

21:30 The Birth of Iron Business Blueprint

29:19 Key Marketing Strategies for Gym Owners

34:14 Supporting Local Businesses

34:40 Maximizing Client Referrals

36:15 Reflecting on Years in the Fitness Industry

36:51 Memorable Client Encounters

38:38 Gym Culture and Vibes

48:03 Starting and Growing a Gym Business

50:28 Client Retention and Influences

56:45 Wrestling and Mainstream Influence

01:00:15 Backstage Wrestling Stories

01:03:44 Conclusion and Contact Information

This week on The Strong New York Podcast, Kenny sits down with Kate Shelor — certified hypnotherapist, intimacy coach, host of The Dirty Secrets Podcast, and a top 0.1% creator on OnlyFans.

Known for her bold, no-BS approach to intimacy and empowerment, Kate helps people overcome shame, heal from trauma, and unapologetically own their desires. Based in Las Vegas, she brings a smart, sexy, and slightly rebellious energy to conversations around confidence, relationships, and personal growth.

In this episode, Kenny and Kate dive deep into topics that often get pushed aside — from body confidence and sex to mental health and the power of human connection. They explore the toll of hyper-individualism, the rise in loneliness and anxiety, and how small shifts — like prioritizing physical health and nurturing social bonds — can spark profound transformation.

Tune in for a candid, eye-opening conversation that just might change how you think about intimacy, community, and self-worth.

Can men be both strong and vulnerable? In this powerful episode of the Strong New York podcast powered by Celsius, Kenny Santucci sits down with David Reggina—co-founder of Action Cultivates Excellence (ACE) —for a raw, honest conversation about transformation, masculinity, and purpose.

David opens up about his battle with Crohn’s disease, the heartbreak of divorce, and his mother’s addiction—life-altering moments that pushed him to create a leadership movement focused on helping men grow through challenge, connection, and community.

They dive deep into:

• What makes ACE Summits life-changing for men
• How to build discipline and emotional strength
• The crossroads of fitness, faith, and leadership
• The role of vulnerability in true masculinity
•  Why community is the secret weapon in personal growth

Whether you’re looking to level up your life, redefine what it means to be a strong man, or simply hear a story of resilience—this episode is for you.

🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review — and don’t forget to follow @StrongNewYork for more.

On this episode of the Strong New York Podcast, powered by Celsius, host Kenny Santucci sits down with Dr. Rocio Salas-Whalen—triple board-certified physician in Endocrinology, Obesity Medicine, and Internal Medicine—to discuss the evolving landscape of weight management and women’s health.

A pioneer in the use of GLP-1 medications, Dr. Salas-Whalen explains how these treatments, originally approved for type 2 diabetes, are now transforming approaches to weight loss. She breaks down common misconceptions, highlights the importance of muscle retention, and shares how these medications fit into a sustainable, science-backed health strategy.

They also dive into hormone therapy, strength training, and Dr. Salas-Whalen’s empowering approach to perimenopause and menopause—what she calls a “menopause redo.” She offers practical, modern tools to help women navigate midlife with clarity, strength, and confidence.

Dr. Salas-Whalen also previews her upcoming book, The GLP-1 Breakthrough, packed with insights on how to take control of your health through medical innovation and thoughtful movement.

Want to learn more?  Follow @drsalaswhalen on Instagram.
Plus visit strengthMD.co to check out her protein and use code STRONGNY at check-out for 15% off your order.

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Announcement
00:22 Meet Dr. Rocio Salas-Whelan
00:49 The Benefits and Controversies of GLP-1 Medications
01:34 Early Adoption and Off-Label Use
03:55 FDA Approval and Media Attention
05:04 Addressing Negative Press and Misuse
06:25 The Importance of Medical Supervision
09:50 Muscle Preservation and Weight Loss
12:50 Understanding Obesity as a Chronic Condition
16:36 Genetics, Hormones, and Environmental Factors
18:14 Personal Experiences and Family Struggles
19:56 GLP-1 Use in Children and Adolescents
21:49 The Role of Exercise and Medical Guidance
24:47 Bridging the Gap Between Fitness and Medicine
28:53 Success Stories with GLP-1
29:11 The Psychological Impact of Weight Loss
30:20 The Fitness Divide: Fit vs. Unfit
31:09 The Role of the Food Industry in Health
33:08 The Importance of Motivation and Accessibility
37:54 The Benefits of Hormone Therapy for Women
43:01 Balancing Life and Fitness
47:37 Diet and Supplementation Tips
52:21 Future of Medical Treatments for Obesity
54:23 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this week's episode of the Strong New York Podcast, host Kenny Santucci sits down with Craig Ballantyne, the "World's Most Disciplined Man." Craig is the author of The Dark Side of Discipline and The Perfect DayFormula, the creator of the Turbulence Training fitness system, and the founder of EarlyToRise.com. Together, they dive into Craig’s latest book, The Dark Side of Discipline, where he shares valuable insights from his personal journey and professional expertise in fitness and self-discipline. The discussion highlights how discipline can be both a powerful tool and a potential pitfall, stressing the need for balance, introspection, and purposeful living. Craig also introduces the concept of effortless discipline systems—strategies that help you achieve your goals without being bound by rigid routines. They touch on the unique pressures faced by high achievers, the impact of extreme discipline on personal relationships, and practical tips for maintaining a well-rounded life. Whether you're passionate about fitness, an entrepreneur, or simply focused on personal growth, this episode offers valuable perspectives on how to harness discipline effectively.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Announcement
00:43 Craig's Book Journey
01:25 The Dark Side of Discipline
02:51 Balancing Discipline and Life
04:29 Questioning Common Success Habits
15:55 The Role of Mimetic Desire
22:35 Alcohol and Social Life
35:10 The Turning Point: Discipline and Its Impact
36:00 Entrepreneurship Camp in Lithuania
37:40 The Struggles of Maintaining Discipline
38:55 Balancing Social Life and Discipline
39:57 The Importance of Flexibility in Discipline
41:19 Personal Reflections on Discipline and Relationships
46:15 Balancing Work and Family Life
48:00 The Role of Support Systems
53:44 The Power of Networking and Helping Others
58:14 The Goal of Writing a Book
01:06:30 Concluding Thoughts and Final Advice

In this episode of the Strong New York podcast, host Kenny Santucci sits down with Peter Bayne and Devon Price, co-founders of Kenetik, to dive into their game-changing ketone-based functional beverage. Peter and Devon share the story behind Kenetik, from its origins to the development of its unique formula. They explore the science of ketones, the process of refining the beverage's taste, and the impressive health benefits, including enhanced brain function, increased energy, and faster recovery. The conversation also covers the challenges they faced in launching a drink company, the critical role of marketing and education, and the exciting potential of Kenetik to revolutionize the health and wellness industry. Tune in for an inside look at how these entrepreneurs are shaping the future of functional beverages.

Try it out for yourself! Visit drinkkenetik.com/discount/STRONGNY and use code STRONGNY for 15% off your first order. 

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:24 Understanding Ketones and Their Benefits

01:20 Current State of the Kinetics Brand

02:00 Innovations in Flavor and Functionality

03:26 Safety and Usage of Ketones

04:16 Ketones vs. Traditional Energy Drinks

06:31 Scientific Insights and Research

14:03 Founders' Background and Journey

23:53 Challenges and Success in the Beverage Industry

30:04 Discovering Thesis and Nootropics

30:27 Energy Sources: Ketones vs. Caffeine

31:28 Military Origins of Drinkable Ketones

33:37 Ketone Precursor and Product Ingredients

38:34 Challenges in Marketing and Advertising

43:41 The Importance of Healthy Lifestyle Choices

50:21 Kinetics: A Super Fuel for Everyone

51:21 The Journey of Building a Brand

52:25 Final Thoughts and Strong New York Event