Advertise on podcast: The Peak Performance Podcast by Brad Young

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Welcome to the Peak Performance Podcast, your go-to guide for unlocking your potential and thriving in every aspect of life. We are in the 10% of podcasts globally and hosted by Brad Young, Ph.D.—a bestselling author and trusted voice in health, fitness, and personal growth—this podcast is designed to inspire action and fuel transformation. Brad’s mission is clear: to help YOU become the best version of yourself, one evidence-based step at a time. He dives deep into the workouts and training methods of elite athletes and military units, evaluating their techniques and diets to uncover what truly drives success. It’s not just theory—he puts these strategies into practice, testing their impact on both body and mind. When it comes to running, he breaks down the foundations needed to push your limits, showing you how far determination and dedication can take you. With a focus on modern health and fitness technology, he doesn’t simply review it—he lives it. By using these tools himself, he discovers what works and what doesn’t, sharing only the most effective methods to help you unlock your full potential. He sets you up for Peak Performance by combining insights from cutting-edge scientific research with real-world examples of the physical and mental toughness displayed by elite athletes. Their discipline, their diets—it all becomes a source of inspiration for you to elevate your game. This isn’t just about knowledge; it’s about action. Every piece of information is practically applied, tested, and shared with you so you can take charge of your journey and achieve results. The path to greatness is within your reach—it’s time to put in the work and unleash your best self. Together, we’re raising the bar. Every episode is packed with strategies designed to elevate your mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Brad takes the research from his bestselling books, like Unleashing Your High-Performance Potential and Train to Be Your Best Self, and transforms it into practical steps you can take today. Whether it’s simplifying healthy eating with Eat Clean in a Fast Food World or learning techniques for focus and productivity from Simplify Your Life, these episodes are filled with tools to help you conquer challenges and achieve tangible results.This podcast is more than just tips—it’s a journey. Together, we’ll explore the mind-body connection with Healthy Body Happy Mind, uncover the truth about trending health fads, and build a roadmap that aligns fitness and nutrition to your personal goals. Feeling stuck? Brad dives deep into topics like overcoming food addiction in Breaking the Cycle or reframing your mindset for success with The Power of Positivity. Each episode is a chance to reset, refocus, and break through barriers holding you back.Life can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Brad’s relatable, no-nonsense approach simplifies complex topics, whether it’s navigating Mental Health in the Digital Age or drawing wisdom from ancient strategies with Strategize, Adapt, Overcome. You’ll walk away from each episode motivated, informed, and ready to tackle your next challenge.This is YOUR time. Whether you're an athlete striving for peak performance, a professional seeking balance, or someone ready to take control of their health and happiness, this podcast is here to guide you. Subscribe today and let’s start this transformative journey together—because the life you want is within reach. Disclaimer: The opinions shared on this podcast are for informational purposes only and are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any medical conditions.

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Check latest episodes from The Peak Performance Podcast by Brad Young podcast

Episode 86 Comparing Mike Mentzer and Dorian Yates' High Intensity Interval Training Styles and How You Can Implement Them

2026/02/05

In this episode, we take a deep dive into the training philosophies of two legendary figures in the fitness world: Mike Mentzer and Dorian Yates. These pioneers revolutionized High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) with their unique approaches, emphasizing short, intense workout sessions designed to maximize results with minimal time investment. We explore the similarities and differences between their methods, breaking down the science and practicality behind their success. But it doesn’t stop there. We discuss how you can adapt and implement these high-intensity styles not just for bodybuilding, but for a variety of sports and fitness goals. Whether you’re looking to improve endurance for running, build explosive power for basketball, or enhance your agility for soccer, these training strategies can be tailored to fit your specific needs. Tune in to learn how to make the most of your workouts and elevate your performance, no matter your athletic discipline! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 85: What Separates Delta Force from Other Elite Military Units

2026/01/30

Delta Force stands apart from other elite units not simply because of physical prowess, but due to a comprehensive selection process that tests psychological resilience, creative problem-solving, and adaptive thinking under extreme stress. While Navy SEALs, Army Rangers, and Marine Raiders are all exceptional warriors, Delta's selection emphasizes cognitive flexibility and independent decision-making at levels that exceed most military training programs. The selection process itself reveals the difference. Candidates face deliberately vague instructions, constantly changing requirements, and scenarios designed to break conventional military thinking. They're evaluated on their ability to navigate ambiguity, maintain composure during chaos, and make sound decisions when exhausted beyond normal limits. This approach filters for individuals who can think clearly when others cannot, who adapt when others freeze, and who find solutions when others see only problems. What makes this relevant to your peak performance journey is simple: Delta doesn't just build soldiers who follow orders exceptionally well. They cultivate operators who thrive in uncertainty, who turn constraints into advantages, and who maintain effectiveness when systems fail. These same capabilities translate directly to high-stakes business environments, competitive athletics, and any pursuit demanding excellence under pressure. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 84: The Ancestral Blueprint for Peak Performance

2026/01/25

For the past few months, I've been obsessed with this question: What if everything we think we know about peak performance is backwards? What if instead of fighting against our biology with extreme diets, punishing workout routines, and constant optimization hacks, we actually worked with the fundamental programming that's been refined over hundreds of thousands of years? Today's episode is about understanding that programming. We're going to look at how prehistoric cultures approached physical performance, how your unique genetic makeup and body type determine your optimal path forward, and most importantly, how you can combine ancient wisdom with modern advantages to unlock capabilities you didn't know you had. This isn't about going back to living in caves or abandoning modern science. It's about recognizing that we are, biologically speaking, still those prehistoric humans. Our bodies haven't evolved to match our environment—our environment has changed faster than we can adapt. And that mismatch is creating problems we can solve by understanding where we came from. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 83: Breaking World Records

2026/01/20

In this deep dive, we move beyond generic advice to explore the cutting-edge science behind peak human achievement. Discover how subtle genetic variations influence everything from muscle fiber composition to recovery speed, and learn how top athletes leverage this knowledge to tailor their regimens for unparalleled results. We'll examine the fascinating question: are world-beaters born or truly made? Then, we break down the most effective training methodologies used by champions. From the nuanced application of progressive overload and periodization for raw strength, to the strategic implementation of polarized training and lactate threshold work for endurance, you'll gain insights into programs that build superhuman capabilities. We'll also uncover the critical role of advanced nutrition, precise supplementation, and active recovery techniques in optimizing physical adaptation and preventing burnout. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 82: Evolution of Combat Sports Training

2026/01/15

Welcome to a groundbreaking exploration of how combat sports training has transformed over seven decades. From the spartan gyms of the 1950s to today's high-tech performance centers, we're diving deep into the methods, science, and philosophies that have shaped champions across generations. This episode reveals the dramatic evolution in diet, mental preparation, physical conditioning, and recovery protocols that separate modern fighters from their legendary predecessors. Whether you're a dedicated martial artist, a combat sports enthusiast, or someone seeking to train with fighter-level intensity, this comprehensive guide will transform your understanding of what it takes to perform at the absolute peak. We'll examine the wisdom worth preserving from the old school, celebrate the scientific breakthroughs of the modern era, and provide you with actionable training programs that blend the best of both worlds. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 81 Training for Military PT Excellence Across All Branches

2026/01/10

Physical fitness in the military isn't just about looking good or hitting arbitrary numbers. It's about operational readiness. Every PT standard exists because commanders and fitness experts have determined these benchmarks represent the minimum physical capability needed to perform under stress, carry equipment, evacuate casualties, and survive combat conditions. When you understand this context, training takes on new meaning. You're not just doing pushups—you're building the strength to carry a wounded teammate to safety. You're not just running—you're developing the endurance to complete a mission when everything goes sideways. Each branch has evolved its testing protocols based on decades of research, operational requirements, and lessons learned from actual combat scenarios. The Army needs soldiers who can move under load for extended periods. The Marines demand warriors capable of explosive power and combat-specific movements. The Navy requires sailors who can perform rescue operations and shipboard emergencies. The Air Force needs airmen ready for worldwide deployment. The Coast Guard demands versatility for search and rescue in extreme conditions. Understanding why each test exists transforms your approach to training. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 80 The Ancient Art of Bodyweight Mastery

2026/01/05

Before we had weight rooms, resistance bands, or sophisticated training equipment, humans had one primary tool for building strength, power, and resilience: their own body. Calisthenics, derived from the Greek words kalos meaning beauty and sthenos meaning strength, represents the purest form of physical training. It's not just about building muscle or improving cardiovascular fitness—it's about mastering the relationship between your mind and body, developing functional strength that translates directly to real-world performance. What makes calisthenics particularly fascinating is its accessibility and scalability. Whether you're a complete beginner struggling with your first push-up or an advanced athlete performing one-arm pull-ups, the principles remain the same. You're working against gravity, learning to control your body through space, and building strength that serves a purpose beyond aesthetics. This fundamental simplicity is what has kept calisthenics relevant across centuries, cultures, and training philosophies. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 79: Training Like an Elite Athlete

2025/12/30

The Elite Athlete Mindset What separates elite athletes from the rest isn't just physical talent—it's a fundamentally different way of thinking. Elite athletes possess an unwavering belief in their ability to improve, a concept psychologists call a growth mindset. They view challenges not as obstacles but as opportunities to refine their craft. When they fail, they don't see it as a reflection of their worth; they see it as data, feedback that tells them where to focus next. This mindset is cultivated through years of deliberate practice and self-reflection. Elite athletes understand that talent is just the starting point. What matters more is the daily commitment to getting one percent better, the discipline to show up even when motivation wanes, and the courage to push beyond comfort zones repeatedly. They've learned to embrace discomfort as a signal of growth rather than a reason to retreat. The good news? This mindset isn't reserved for those born with exceptional genetics. It's a skill you can develop through intentional practice. Start by reframing how you talk to yourself about challenges. Instead of I can't do this, try I can't do this yet. That single word—yet—opens up a world of possibility and positions you on the path of continuous improvement that defines elite performance. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 78: Training Like Strength Champions

2025/12/25

Understanding the Strength Sports Landscape Before we explore training methods, it's essential to understand what separates powerlifting from strongman competitions. Powerlifting focuses on three core lifts: the squat, bench press, and deadlift. Athletes have three attempts at each lift, with their best successful attempt counting toward their total. The goal is simple yet brutally challenging: lift the maximum weight possible in these three movements while adhering to strict technical standards. For instance, in the squat, athletes must hit a specific depth (crease of the hip below the top of the knee) and await squat and rack commands. The bench press requires a clear pause on the chest and a full lockout, followed by press and rack commands, while the deadlift demands a smooth lift to lockout with no downward motion until the down command. These stringent rules, enforced by a panel of three judges (who award white or red lights for successful or failed lifts), ensure fairness and standardize performance across various federations such as the IPF, USAPL, or WRPF. Athletes compete within specific weight classes to ensure equitable competition, progressing through local, national, and international stages. Strongman competitions, by contrast, test strength through a diverse array of events that often mimic real-world feats of power. Athletes might flip massive tires, typically weighing 500-1000+ pounds, requiring explosive hip drive and a unique technical approach for multiple repetitions. They might carry atlas stones, ranging from 200-500+ pounds, lifting them from the ground and loading them onto platforms of varying heights, demanding immense grip strength and full-body coordination. Other iconic events include pulling trucks or airplanes with a harness, pressing overhead logs of various weights (which requires a clean and press technique similar to Olympic weightlifting but with an awkward, thick implement), or carrying heavy objects like the Farmer's Walk (carrying heavy implements in each hand for distance) or the Yoke Carry (a heavy frame carried across the shoulders for distance). The unpredictable nature and varied implements in strongman demand not only raw strength but also explosive power, cardiovascular endurance, dynamic stability, and the ability to move awkwardly shaped objects under duress. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 77: How Hollywood Actors Get Into Peak Performance Shape

2025/12/20

When you see an actor go from average physique to absolutely shredded in what seems like mere months, you're witnessing something that defies conventional fitness wisdom. Chris Hemsworth didn't wake up looking like Thor. Christian Bale's transformation between films has become legendary. But here's what most people don't understand: these transformations typically happen in 12 to 16-week windows, sometimes even shorter. That's not just aggressive—it's practically superhuman by normal standards. The timeline itself reveals the first truth about Hollywood transformations: they're not sustainable, and they're not meant to be. These actors are preparing for a specific shoot date, a specific scene, sometimes even a specific shot. They're peaking their physiology like a bodybuilder preparing for competition day. What you see on screen represents maybe two to four weeks of absolute peak condition, not a year-round lifestyle. Understanding this timeline is crucial because it sets the stage for everything else we're about to discuss. Most civilian fitness enthusiasts operate under the assumption that slow and steady wins the race. And for long-term health, that's absolutely true. But Hollywood operates under different rules entirely. When millions of dollars are riding on an actor's appearance, when shooting schedules are locked in months in advance, when insurance companies and studios have invested massive resources into a production, the calculus changes completely. The question shifts from what's healthiest? to "what's possible? And that shift opens doors that most people never even knew existed. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 76: Running with the Tarahumar

2025/12/15

The Hidden Runners of Copper Canyon Nestled in the remote Sierra Madre Occidental mountains of northern Mexico lies a network of canyons four times larger than the Grand Canyon. This is Copper Canyon, home to the Rarámuri people, more commonly known as the Tarahumara. The name Rarámuri literally translates to "those who run fast" or the running people, and it's not an exaggeration. For centuries, this indigenous community has maintained a way of life centered around running—not as exercise or sport, but as fundamental transportation, communication, and cultural identity. The Tarahumara live in one of the most rugged terrains imaginable. Their villages are scattered across vast distances, separated by deep canyons and steep mountain ridges. Before modern roads penetrated their territory, running was simply how they moved through their world. A Tarahumara runner might think nothing of covering fifty to one hundred miles in a single day to visit relatives, trade goods, or participate in ceremonies. They run to hunt deer, literally chasing the animals to exhaustion over the course of days. And perhaps most famously, they play a traditional ball game called rarájipari that can last for two days straight and cover distances exceeding one hundred miles. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 75: Ancient Tools for Modern Warriors

2025/12/10

Here's something fascinating: while we've been chasing the latest smart equipment and AI-powered training systems, some of the world's most elite performers have been quietly returning to tools that were old when your great-grandparents were young. Navy SEALs swing Indian clubs. Olympic athletes train with sandbags. Professional fighters incorporate steel maces into their conditioning. Why? The answer lies in understanding what these primitive tools offer that modern equipment often can't: unpredictability, natural movement patterns, and a unique stimulus that builds resilience from the inside out. These aren't just workout tools. They're recovery tools. They're injury prevention tools. They're performance enhancement tools disguised in humble, ancient packages. Think about it this way: your body evolved over millions of years to handle irregular objects, shifting loads, and three-dimensional movement. Then we locked it into fixed planes of motion on machines and predictable patterns with barbells. There's nothing wrong with those tools, but they're incomplete. Primitive implements fill the gaps that modern training creates. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 74 Ancient Warriors Comparing Training Philosophies 2 of 2

2025/12/05

Comparing Training Philosophies Now that we've examined each of these legendary military forces individually, let's compare their approaches to training and see what lessons we can draw. Each culture developed training systems that reflected their values, resources, and tactical needs, yet certain principles appear across all of them. Understanding these commonalities and differences reveals fundamental truths about peak performance that apply far beyond ancient warfare. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 73: Ancient Warriors - The Ultimate Peak Performers

2025/11/30

What can ancient soldiers teach us about peak performance? As it turns out, quite a lot. These weren't just fighters; they were the result of sophisticated training systems, carefully designed nutrition programs, and mental conditioning that would impress even today's sports scientists. From the disciplined ranks of Roman legions to the lightning-fast Mongol cavalry, each of these military forces achieved something remarkable: they became the absolute best at what they did. Over the next hour, we'll examine five of history's greatest military units. We'll explore their training regimens, discover what they ate to fuel their bodies, understand the physical conditioning that made them formidable, and uncover the mental and cultural factors that transformed ordinary men into legendary warriors. These ancient peak performers have lessons for all of us, whether we're athletes, professionals, or simply people striving to be our best. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 72 Building Strength While Preventing Injuries

2025/11/25

Today we're diving deep into one of the most critical aspects of elite performance: building strength while preventing injuries. This isn't just about lifting heavier weights or running faster times. It's about understanding the sophisticated systems that military special operations units, Olympic athletes, and world-class performers use to push their bodies to the limit while staying healthy and operational for decades. The paradox of strength training is this: the very process that makes you stronger can also break you down if done incorrectly. Elite performers have cracked this code. They've developed systematic approaches that allow them to build extraordinary strength while maintaining joint health, tissue integrity, and long-term performance capacity. Over the next sections, we'll explore these proven strategies in depth, giving you actionable frameworks you can implement immediately. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.