The Lab

Fitness Industry Hot Takes: What We Love (and Hate)

In this spicy episode of The Lab, Cody and Kel hold nothing back as they dive into their unfiltered hot takes on the fitness industry—from the trends they’re loving to the ones they wish would die already. 🎧 Topics we cover: * Coaches with no experience handing out garbage advice * Why “functional fitness” might be the most overused phrase ever * Carnivore bros, detox teas, and other culty BS * How mental health is (finally) getting a seat at the table * Why more people lifting weights is a huge win * The power of community in the fitness space * And why how you eat shouldn’t be a political statement We also kick off the episode with a raw convo about the chaos in the world right now—from tariffs and protests to performative politics—and how it’s all affecting our headspace. Don't forget to follow us on Instagram: @the_lab_fit And join our discord server: https://discord.gg/nzVBbHdzDz

Nature, Politics and Our Fitness Mistakes

In this conversation, Cody and Kel discuss various topics ranging from personal updates about their lives, including office setups and outdoor activities, to significant current events like the Signal chat controversy involving government officials. They delve into the political landscape, exploring potential candidates for future elections, military and economic concerns, and the implications of AI on job markets. The conversation wraps up with a light-hearted discussion on simulation theory, reflecting on the quirks of life. In this conversation, Cody and Kel discuss their personal fitness journeys, highlighting the mistakes they made along the way. They explore the impact of diet culture, the role of CrossFit, the effects of alcohol, and the importance of understanding stress in relation to performance. They emphasize the need for self-love and the significance of long-term goals over instant gratification.

Lifting Through Life’s Changes | Staying Consistent When Life Gets Messy

Life happens—but that doesn’t mean your fitness has to fall apart. In this episode, Cody and Kel get real about lifting through life’s biggest shifts: moving, injuries, job changes, mental health struggles, and relationship ups and downs. We share how to adapt your routine, protect your mental health, and stay on track when life feels chaotic. Inside this episode: 👉 How to stay consistent when your schedule is all over the place 👉 Why flexibility matters more than perfection 👉 Tips for gym anxiety and starting fresh at a new gym 👉 Balancing relationships and fitness goals 👉 Mental health and training when energy is low 👉 Why community and support matter most during tough times 🎧 Join the Discord: https://discord.gg/nzVBbHdzDz [https://discord.gg/nzVBbHdzDz] 📲 Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/the_lab_fit [https://instagram.com/the_lab_fit]

Training Techniques: Intensifiers

In this conversation, Kel and Cody discuss their personal lives, including moving and home improvements, before diving into fitness topics. They explore the concept of training to failure, different exercise techniques, and the importance of maintaining proper form. The discussion emphasizes the balance between intensity and recovery in workout routines, while also touching on the significance of simplicity in training methods.

Navigating Transition, Identity, and Community with James Bennett

In this episode of The Lab Podcast, we sit down with James Bennett, author of Spilling the Tea, to discuss his journey through transition, identity, and the challenges of navigating relationships and community as a trans man. James shares insights from his book, reflecting on 10 years of transition, the emotional process of writing, and the importance of representation. We dive into topics like: • The reality of transition beyond physical changes • Finding (and struggling to find) community in the LGBTQ+ space • How fitness and mental health played a role in his journey • Managing fear, anxiety, and staying true to yourself • Writing as therapy and the challenges of publishing a memoir If you’re looking for an honest and insightful conversation on what it really means to grow, change, and live authentically, this episode is for you. 📖 Check out James’ book: Spilling the Tea 📲 Follow James on Instagram: @mrjamesbennett 🔔 Subscribe for more conversations like this! Join our Discord Server! [https://discord.gg/nzVBbHdzDz]