In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I sit down with Aaron Straker for a deep dive into his journey from natural bodybuilding to the enhanced side of the sport. We talk openly about the trade-offs, risks, and insights he's gained along the way—including the use of compounds like testosterone and growth hormone.

We also get into the mental and physical shifts that come with that transition, and how Aaron approaches training, nutrition, and recovery with intention. He shares his thoughts on everything from sauna use to how he stays grounded while optimizing performance. Whether you're just curious or seriously considering the enhanced route, this episode offers a nuanced, no-BS perspective.

Sponsors:

• Tecton Life Ketone drink! https://tectonlife.com/ DRMIKE to save 20%
• LMNT electrolyte drink mix: miketnelsonlmnt.com
• Daily Fitness Insider Newsletter: https://flex-diet.kit.com/bfa1510fa8
• Flex 4: Aaron's top 4 factors to consider before starting TRT or PEDs

Triphasic 2 book now available!

• Go to https://triphasic2.com/

Episode Chapters:

• 06:01 Aaron's Life in Bali
• 10:33 Natural vs Enhanced Bodybuilding
• 17:13 Aaron's Journey and Training Insights
• 34:40 Health Concerns and Blood Pressure Monitoring
• 35:36 Mind-Muscle Connection and Nervous System Effects
• 38:30 Diet and Macros During Training Phases
• 42:07 Challenges of High-Calorie Diets
• 43:29 PEDs and Their Impact on Training and Recovery
• 51:51 Sauna Use and Recovery Protocols
• 56:35 Individual Responses to PEDs
• 59:14 Mental and Emotional Effects of PEDs

01:04:37 Podcast Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Flex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy:

• Episode 216: Building a successful online fitness coaching business: An Interview with Aaron Straker
• Episode 185: Are more top bodybuilders dying early? Extreme bodybuilding methods – risks and rewards: a conversation w/ Dr Guillermo Escalante

Connect with Aaron:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aaron_straker
• Podcast: https://www.eattrainprosper.com/
• Website: https://strakernutritionco.com/coaching-services/

Get In Touch with Dr Mike:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpg

In this episode of Iron Radio, hosts Coach Phil Stevens, Dr. Mike Nelson, Coach Jerell, and Dr. Lonnie Lowery discuss recent studies on the impact of cold water immersion on muscle protein synthesis and recovery. Dr. Nelson shares insights from a study published in March 2025, examining how post-exercise cooling affects blood flow and amino acid incorporation into muscle tissue.

The team debates the pros and cons of cold water immersion, particularly for muscle hypertrophy and recovery, and shares personal experiences and practical applications. Later, they delve into the mind-muscle connection, exploring its use in both bodybuilding and strength training, and how to effectively incorporate this technique into workouts. The conversation wraps up with a discussion on posing in bodybuilding and how internal and external cues affect performance.

Episode Chapters:

• 01:16 Muscle Protein Synthesis and Cold Water Immersion
• 08:18 Practical Applications and Public Perception
• 22:53 Iron Radio Updates and Announcements
• 25:16 Mind-Muscle Connection: Bodybuilders vs. Athletes
• 31:08 Effective Rowing Techniques
• 31:48 The Importance of Slowing Down
• 35:21 Mind-Muscle Connection
• 39:11 Neural Reeducation Insights
• 46:01 Practical Tips for Strength Athletes
• 51:26 Posing and Performance in Bodybuilding

Donate to the show via PayPal HERE.

You can also join Dr Mike's Insider Newsletter for more info on how to add muscle, improve your performance and body comp - all without destroying your health, go to www.ironradiodrmike.com

Thank you!

Phil, Jerrell, Mike T, and Lonnie