The risks of extreme dieting are far greater than most people realize. In episode 806 of the Savage Perspective Podcast, host Robert Sikes sits down with Maria Emmerich to reveal the shocking truth about how restrictive eating can destroy physical health, mental well-being, and even relationships. From devastating muscle loss to dangerous hormonal imbalances and emotional burnout, this in-depth conversation explores why so many women fall into extreme dieting and the long-term consequences they face. Together, Robert and Maria share eye-opening insights into the importance of prioritizing self-care, building strength, and achieving sustainable health.Ready to take your health and fitness journey seriously? Join Robert’s FREE Bodybuilding Masterclass today and discover how to achieve lasting results with nutrition and training that works for you: https://www.ketobodybuilding.com/registration-2Get Keto Brick: https://www.ketobrick.com/Subscribe to the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/42cjJssghqD01bdWBxRYEg?si=1XYKmPXmR4eKw2O9gGCEuQChapters:0:00 Extreme Dieting2:04 Why Health Should Be the Focus, Not Appearance6:24 How Extreme Dieting Leads to Muscle Loss and Health Issues12:55 The Emotional Cost of Restrictive Diets19:13 Balancing Self-Care, Health, and Family Responsibilities26:32 Damaged Metabolism: The Need for Reverse Dieting34:42 Societal Pressures and Body Image Struggles in Women40:01 Fixing Hormonal Imbalances Through Nutrition and Self-Care45:15 Menopause and the Overlooked Health Risks for Women52:45 Perseverance and Simplified Living

This week, Greg’s back from We Fest—the massive country music festival up in Minnesota—and we talk about how his approach to the event has evolved over the years. Back in the day, it was all about camping, drinking, chain smoking, and eating whatever junk food was within reach. The whole weekend was a blur of hangovers, naps, and missed memories.

Now? Totally different story. Greg ditched the tent for a hotel room, skipped the booze, meal-prepped like a pro, and even hauled frozen taco beef across state lines just to stay on track. We break down how he managed to keep training, eat clean, and still enjoy the music and the crowd—proving that you don’t have to wreck your goals to have a good time.

We also hit on a bigger life lesson: you’ll never “feel” ready to make a change—you have to decide to be ready. Whether it’s committing to better health, sticking to prep, or just making smarter choices at events, it’s about owning that decision and following through, no matter what’s going on around you.

Greg Mahler is also a lifetime natural bodybuilder, and can be followed on Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/ketogreg80/

Register For My FREE Masterclass: https://www.ketobodybuilding.com/registration-2

Get Keto Brick: https://www.ketobrick.com/

Subscribe to the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/42cjJssghqD01bdWBxRYEg?si=1XYKmPXmR4eKw2O9gGCEuQ

What if your diet was holding you back from dominating on the mat? In episode 805 of the Savage Perspective Podcast, host Robert Sikes sits down with Jay Horley to uncover the secrets of combat sports nutrition. This isn’t just about what to eat, it’s about how to take control of your health, sustain energy through intense training, and manage weight without sacrificing strength. Whether you’re an athlete looking to optimize performance or someone balancing work, family, and fitness, this episode dives into the power of consistency, the impact of meal timing, and how a carnivore approach can enhance focus, recovery, and endurance. Hear firsthand how Jay balances diabetes, hydration, and competition as a jiu-jitsu athlete ranked number one in his age and weight class.

Ready to take control of your fitness journey? Join Robert's FREE Bodybuilding Masterclass today: https://www.ketobodybuilding.com/registration-2. Learn the strategies Robert uses to help athletes, coaches, and professionals gain strength and confidence. Watch now!

Get Keto Brick: https://www.ketobrick.com/

Subscribe to the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/42cjJssghqD01bdWBxRYEg?si=1XYKmPXmR4eKw2O9gGCEuQ

Chapters:

0:00 The Importance of Nutrition in Combat Sports

6:09 From Taekwondo to Jiu-Jitsu: A Journey of Growth, Safety, and Success

11:53 Balancing Family Life, Diabetes, and Training at a High Level

17:53 The Role of Precision Nutrition and Hydration for Peak Performance

23:23 Why Carbs and Strength Training Are Crucial for Jiu-Jitsu Athletes

28:35 Weight Management and Staying Fueled While Competing

35:27 Building Long-Term Health and Vitality Through Nutrition

40:31 Timing Meals and Macros Around Training for Better Energy

49:36 Keto and Carnivore Diets for Diabetics in Combat Sports

55:08 The Power of Home-Cooked Meals and Controlling Nutrition

1:00:25 Personal Growth, Aging, and Sustaining the Competitive Edge

1:05:55 Strategic Calorie Deficits and Refeeds for Tournament Success

1:13:42 Managing Diabetes, Energy, and Hydration for Elite Performance

1:16:57 Lessons in Repetition, Bonding, and Jiu-Jitsu Coaching

It's more than just a muscle! Low testosterone is silently destroying men’s physical performance, mental clarity, and drive. In this episode of the Savage Perspective Podcast, host Robert Sikes sits down with hormone health expert Dave Lee to dive deep into the hidden causes of low testosterone, how it’s affecting ambitious men like you, and what you can do to take back control. From the environmental toxins that are wreaking havoc on hormones to the critical role nutrition and lifestyle play in restoring balance, this episode uncovers strategies to boost energy, maintain focus, and regain the confidence to succeed in every area of life.

Ready to take your success even further? Join Robert Sikes’ FREE Bodybuilding Masterclass today and learn how to build strength and optimize your health for long-term personal and professional growth: https://www.ketobodybuilding.com/registration-2.

Get Keto Brick: https://www.ketobrick.com/

Subscribe to the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/42cjJssghqD01bdWBxRYEg?si=1XYKmPXmR4eKw2O9gGCEuQ

Chapters:

0:00 Why low testosterone is holding you back

3:00 Mental health impacts of low testosterone (anxiety, depression, low energy)

6:00 Declining testosterone in younger men and environmental causes

11:21 Misleading testosterone reference ranges and why it matters

13:24 Whole health approach: More than just boosting testosterone

16:57 Steps to optimize testosterone and improve energy

18:44 How poor diet and lifestyle sabotage your hormones

23:36 Societal pressures, mental health, and testosterone decline

28:58 Managing responsibilities without sacrificing health

32:32 Impact of low testosterone on fertility and future generations

39:16 Sedentary lifestyles, remote work, and declining hormone health

44:08 Nutrition for hormone health: Foods vs processed options

52:32 Importance of animal-based foods for testosterone

57:34 Supplements like Omega-3s and ketogenic diets for hormone support

1:02:30 TRT pros, cons, and managing therapy safely

1:09:18 Best practices for testosterone optimization (topicals vs injections)

1:18:22 Long-term risks of TRT and hormone misuse

1:29:26 Why hormone health is the foundation of male performance.

In this episode, we dive into the nitty-gritty of how we’re training, eating, and staying locked in mentally. I’ve been experimenting with alternate-day fasting while still in a building phase — packing in 5,000 to 6,000 calories on my eating days, then fasting the next. It’s been working well. I feel tighter, leaner, and surprisingly strong even when training fasted. We talk through how that’s playing out, how I structure it, and why it’s more sustainable for me than being in a constant deficit.

Greg’s working through a bit of a shoulder impingement, so we’re adjusting our training to focus more on controlled tempo, full range of motion, and time under tension. We’re still doing full-body workouts for now, but after his prep wraps up, we’re probably shifting back to that eight-day push/pull/legs split we loved before.

But this episode goes way deeper than just macros and gym talk. We get real about why we choose to stay natural, why we focus on quality food, and how that compares to the direction a lot of the fitness world is heading. We use traditional bow hunting as a metaphor for what we do — it's not flashy, but it’s real, raw, and rooted in craft.

We also open up about some heavier stuff: addiction, hormone manipulation, integrity, and even what it’s like to sit with someone in their final moments. It’s a reminder that life is short, but the work — the real work — is worth it. If we want peace, if we want fulfillment, we’ve got to earn it.

We wrap things up with some exciting updates: the Brick by Brick launch is live (get in before the Sunday deadline!), and the Natural State Savages show is right around the corner. We’re going all-in — custom swag bags, serious trophies, good food, and a stacked lineup of competitors and spectators. If you’re not competing, show up anyway — the energy’s going to be unreal.

Greg Mahler is also a lifetime natural bodybuilder, and can be followed on Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/ketogreg80/

Register For My FREE Masterclass: https://www.ketobodybuilding.com/registration-2

Get Keto Brick: https://www.ketobrick.com/

Subscribe to the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/42cjJssghqD01bdWBxRYEg?si=1XYKmPXmR4eKw2O9gGCEuQ

THIS is how Jiu Jitsu transforms your life. Discover why ambitious, driven individuals swear by the mental discipline, physical fitness, and unshakable confidence that Jiu Jitsu builds. In episode 803 of the Savage Perspective Podcast, host Robert Sikes sits down with grappling strength and conditioning coach Joshua Settlage to dive into how Jiu Jitsu fosters unmatched personal growth while blending strength, strategy, and community. From overcoming fear of failure to mastering self-discipline, this conversation is packed with insights tailor-made for leaders who strive to push their limits in and out of the gym. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just curious about stepping onto the mat, this episode will ignite a new perspective on achieving your goals.

Ready to level up your fitness game and achieve a stronger, leaner physique? Join Robert’s FREE Bodybuilding Masterclass today: https://www.ketobodybuilding.com/registration-2

Where to find Josh:

Free BJJ Strength Program: www.thestrengthmatrix.com/grappler

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joshuasettlage/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@joshuasettlage

Get Keto Brick: https://www.ketobrick.com/

Subscribe to the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/42cjJssghqD01bdWBxRYEg?si=1XYKmPXmR4eKw2O9gGCEuQ

Chapters:

0:00 Building Confidence and Community Through Jiu Jitsu

2:21 Jiu Jitsu vs. Wrestling: Flexibility and Enjoyment After High School

4:18 How Consistency in Fitness Goals Leads to Success

5:52 Why Strength Training Is Essential for Jiu Jitsu Practitioners

8:41 Train Safely: Tips for Beginners and Experienced Practitioners

11:20 The Mental and Physical Benefits of Jiu Jitsu for Bodybuilders

13:18 Emotional Challenges in Wrestling vs. Passion for Jiu Jitsu

15:36 The Unique Blend of Teamwork and Independence in Jiu Jitsu

17:48 Boost Your Confidence and Communication Skills with Jiu Jitsu

19:46 How Jiu Jitsu Teaches Resilience and Overcoming Ego

22:12 Choosing the Best Jiu Jitsu Gym for Your Goals

24:18 Progression for Beginners: How Often Should You Train?

27:02 Training Smarter, Not Harder: Balancing Effort with Recovery

29:25 Building Explosive Strength to Elevate Your Jiu Jitsu Game

31:41 Strategic Nutrition: Eating for Energy and Performance

34:12 Insights into the Long-Term Benefits of Certain Diets (Keto and More)

37:07 How Jiu Jitsu Competitions Keep You Sharp and Motivated

39:05 Combining Jiu Jitsu and Natural Bodybuilding for the Best Results

41:24 Why Jiu Jitsu Promotes Work-Life Balance and Mental Clarity

43:17 Final Thoughts: The Savage Approach to Jiu Jitsu Success

Can sugar actually help you burn fat? In episode 802 of the Savage Perspective Podcast, host Robert Sikes is joined by Mark Bell to explore the surprising science behind sugar diets, fat loss, and metabolism. Mark goes against what's normally talked about on the podcast, sharing insights on how carbohydrates, when approached strategically, can influence hormones, energy, and overall fat burning. This episode dives deep into the idea that being open-minded and experimenting with your diet, whether it’s high sugar, low protein, or high fat, high protein, can lead to better, more sustainable results. Robert and Mark also discuss why one-size-fits-all diets don’t work and how understanding your individual needs is key to making real progress.

Take charge of your fitness and nutrition journey today. Join Robert Sikes’ FREE Bodybuilding Masterclass here: https://www.ketobodybuilding.com/registration-2 and discover how to align your diet with your personal goals for the best results!

Follow Mark on IG: https://www.instagram.com/marksmellybell/

Subscribe to Mark's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCT4h7JebxFzSplk6zn0tAdA

Get Keto Brick: https://www.ketobrick.com/

Subscribe to the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/42cjJssghqD01bdWBxRYEg?si=1XYKmPXmR4eKw2O9gGCEuQ

Chapters:

0:00 How Sugar Can Boost Your Fat-Burning by 20%

2:00 Insulin Resistance Explained: Is It Helping or Hurting You?

5:32 Experiment Your Way to the Perfect Fat Loss Diet

7:18 Why Strict Diets Don’t Work for Long-Term Health

11:06 Customize Your Diet for Metabolic Success

12:49 One Diet Doesn’t Fit All: Find What Works for You

16:30 The Power of Tracking: Small Dietary Changes, Big Results

18:13 High Sugar, Low Protein: Surprising Diet Experiment

21:55 How Morning Body Temperature Reveals Your Metabolism

23:43 Can Low Protein Diets Boost Testosterone and Energy?

27:13 Why Your Body Is More Complex Than Diet Trends

29:01 The Secret to Sticking to a Diet (It’s Not Willpower)

32:22 Tools and Tech to Make Weight Loss Easier

34:03 Easy, Healthy Eating Hacks for Busy Professionals

37:39 How Food Quality Impacts Metabolism and Fat Loss

39:18 Overcoming Adversity: Unlock Your Greatest Strengths

42:45 Exercise for Fat Loss: Does It Really Work?

44:33 How Society Shapes Your Fitness Standards

48:02 The Impact of Parental Habits on Children’s Health

49:48 Create Lifelong Healthy Eating Habits for Your Kids

53:11 Cooking Together: Strengthen Family Bonds While Eating Healthy

54:49 Get Energy from Real Food, Not Empty Sugary Snacks

58:11 Why Carbs Are Your Best Friend for Muscle Growth

1:00:02 Fat Adaptation: The Key to Long-Term Muscle Recovery

1:03:43 Bodybuilders’ Secret to Building Muscle and Losing Fat

1:05:35 How Cycling Your Calories Can Supercharge Your Metabolism

1:08:52 Why High-Fat Diets Can Hurt Your Fat Loss Results

1:10:43 What Really Works for Fat Burning and Energy Boosting

1:13:54 Balancing Fitness Goals with Family Adventures

1:15:34 Why Open Discussions About Diets Lead to Better Results

In this week's episode, we dive into all things Keto Brick and beyond. We kick off with a hilarious look back at squirrel camp and then recap the Rock Town Naturals show—emceeing duties, booth highlights, and unexpected WNBF swag-bag hookups. From there, we share results from our VO₂ Max and RMR tests (fat-adapted gains, anyone?), discuss upcoming Dexa & 3D imaging open‐houses, and brainstorm how to track performance metrics for our 2027 prep.

Next up: our Brick by Brick anniversary promo—painting names on a new shipping container, 15% off site-wide Aug 3–10, free shirt with $250+. Plus, a deep dive into guided stretching sessions (no more ham-strung glutes!), and finally, a powerful mindset segment inspired by Cameron Hanes: ditch the "finish line," embrace daily micro-wins, lift-run-shoot, and commit to one unbreakable habit every day.

• Rock Town Recap: Emceeing went smoothly; Keto Brick booth drew military, nutrition shops, and WNBA interest.
  
• VO₂ Max & Fat Adaptation: Both of us held fat-burning zones far longer than most—proof that keto pays off in performance.
  
• Brick by Brick Promo: Aug 3 (Noon CT)–Aug 10 (11:59 PM CT): 15% off everything + your name on our new shipping container; free 2025 shirt at $250+.
  
• Guided Stretching: 30 min sessions at $85 (drops to $55/session when you buy multiple or subscribe)—perfect for unlocking tight glutes, hammies, shoulders.
  
• Mindset Reset: "Nobody cares, work harder"—embrace daily grind, avoid finish-line mentality, and lock in 3 non-negotiable daily habits.
  

• 00:00 Squirrel Camp Stories & Hunting Limits
  
• 02:30 Rock Town Naturals Bodybuilding Show Recap
  
• 08:45 VO₂ Max & RMR Test Insights
  
• 14:15 Dexa & 3D Imaging Open House Details
  
• 17:50 Brick by Brick 2025 Promo Breakdown
  
• 23:10 Guided Stretching Zone Experience
  
• 28:00 Cameron Hanes Mindset & Daily Habit Challenge
  

Greg Mahler is also a lifetime natural bodybuilder, and can be followed on Instagram

Key TakeawaysShow Notes & Timestampshttps://www.instagram.com/ketogreg80/