Wits & Weights | Evidence-Based Fitness & Nutrition for Lifters Over 40
Philip Pape, Evidence-Based Nutrition Coach & Fat Loss Expert
Wits & Weights is a strength and nutrition podcast where in every episode I put a popular piece of fitness advice under the microscope, find the hidden reason it doesn't work, and give you the deceptively simple fix that does.For skeptics of the fitness industry who are tired of following the rules and still not seeing results. If you've been lifting weights, tracking macros, and doing "all the right things" but your body composition hasn't changed, you're probably overcomplicating it. This is the fitness podcast that shows you how to build muscle, lose fat, and achieve a real body recomp by focusing only on what the evidence actually supports.Evidence-based fat loss coach Philip Pape brings an engineer's approach to strength training, nutrition, and metabolism. Instead of another generic program or meal plan, you get specific, science-based strategies for optimizing body composition, whether you're focused on building muscle, losing fat, or both. The focus is on strength training over 40, hormone health, perimenopause and menopause, and longevity.You've seen the conflicting advice. One expert says cut carbs, the next says eat more. One says train six days a week, another says three is plenty. Building the body you want doesn't have to be this confusing or time-consuming. By using your wits (systems + identity-based behavior change) and lifting weights, you can build muscle definition, improve your physique, and maintain your results for life without rebound weight gain.You'll learn smart, efficient strategies for movement, metabolism, muscle, and mindset, such as:- Why fat loss matters more than weight loss for both your health and your physique- Why all the macros, including protein, fats, and yes even carbs, are critical to body composition- How just 3 hours a week of proper hypertrophy training can deliver better results than most people get in twice that time- Why building muscle is the single most powerful thing you can do for metabolic health, longevity, and aging well- Why perimenopause and menopause don't have to derail your progress when your training and nutrition are dialed in- How shifting the way you think about fitness can unlock more physical (and personal) growth than any program aloneIf you're ready to learn what actually works with evidence-based training and nutrition, hit "follow" and let's engineer your best physique ever!Popular Guests Include: Mike Matthews (author of Bigger Leaner Stronger), Greg Nuckols (Stronger by Science), Alan Aragon (nutrition researcher), Eric Helms (3D Muscle Journey), Dr. Spencer Nadolsky (Docs Who Lift), Bill Campbell (exercise science researcher), Jordan Feigenbaum (Barbell Medicine), Holly Baxter (evidence-based physique coach), Laurin Conlin (physique coach), Lauren Colenso-Semple (nutrition researcher), Karen Martel (hormone optimization expert), Steph Gaudreau (women's strength and nutrition), Bryan Boorstein (hypertrophy coach)Popular Topics Include: hormone health, metabolism optimization, hypertrophy training, longevity and healthy aging, nutrition tracking, best protein powder selection, strength training over 40, women's fitness, perimenopause, menopause, muscle building, body recomp, macros and nutrition tracking
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jun 6, 2024 • 10min
Quick Wits: Raising Kids to Eat Well (Lessons from a Dad)
Today, we're diving into a topic that's near and dear to my heart (and my dinner table): raising kids to eat well. As a father of three, I've been through the food fights, the picky eating phases, and the mealtime meltdowns – and I've come out the other side with a few battle scars and a whole lot of wisdom to share.If you're struggling to get your kids to eat their veggies or try new foods, know that you're not alone. It's a universal parenting challenge, and there's no magic formula for creating perfect little foodies overnight.The good news is, by taking a long-term view and focusing on building healthy habits and attitudes around food, you can set your kids up for a lifetime of nutritious eating – and save yourself a whole lot of stress and frustration in the process.So, what are some of the key lessons I've learned as a dad in the trenches of mealtime warfare? Find out on today's Quick Wits.--“Quick Wits” are short mini-episodes between full episodes to give you an actionable strategy or hit of motivation.If you enjoy these bonus episodes or have feedback on how to make them better, just send me a text message.💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram
Jun 4, 2024 • 42min
Ep 178: Sleep Science - Doing THIS in the Bedroom is Killing Your Fat Loss, Gains, Hormones, & Metabolism
There is one thing you're doing in the bedroom that might be compromising your gains and your health.No, not that. Or that. Not that either. It's...your sleep routine!Do you really need 7-9 hours of sleep? Can you compensate for poor sleep with diet or exercise? What if you could turbocharge your metabolism, balance your hormones, and redefine your body composition with some tweaks to your sleep habits?Today, Philip (@witsandweights) tackles the often neglected aspect of health and fitness - sleep. He goes beyond the usual advice of “get 7-9 hours of sleep” and explores the significant impact of sleep on your body composition, fat loss, and muscle gain. Is it possible to compensate for poor sleep with diet or exercise? How significant is sleep compared to nutrition and exercise? He answers these questions and more, offering valuable insights for busy, ambitious individuals like you seeking to improve sleep quality and quantity. As a bonus, you can access a free guide, “Better Sleep, Better Body,” packed with evidence-based strategies and practical tips to optimize sleep habits for improved metabolism, hormones, and body composition.Today, you’ll learn all about:3:51 The science of sleep6:10 The connection between sleep and fat loss11:26 Sleep and muscle gain16:37 Sleep’s effect on overall health24:48 7 practical tips to improve sleep quality and quantity40:06 OutroEpisode resources:Download the Better Sleep, Better Body guide FREE💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram
Jun 3, 2024 • 6min
Quick Wits: Your Stronger, Better Looking, Healthier Doppleganger in the Multiverse (Nerd Alert!)
Today, we're taking a quantum leap into the realm of science fiction and self-discovery as we explore the concept of the multiverse and how it can help you become your healthiest, most authentic self.If you're a fan of comic books, sci-fi movies, or theoretical physics (and let's be real, who isn't?), you've probably encountered the idea of the multiverse. It's the theory that there are infinite parallel universes out there, each one containing a different version of reality – and a different version of you.But what if we could use this mind-bending concept not just as a plot device for Hollywood blockbusters, but as a tool for personal transformation?What if we could imagine our multiverse counterparts as a way to explore our own untapped potential and reshape our identities?Find out on today's Quick Wits.--“Quick Wits” are short mini-episodes between full episodes to give you an actionable strategy or hit of motivation.If you enjoy these bonus episodes or have feedback on how to make them better, just send me a text message.💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram
Jun 1, 2024 • 21min
Bonus Episode: I'm Imperfect (My Body, My Podcast, My Nutrition, My Fitness) and That's OK
Are you insecure about your body, your fitness, your health, what you eat, your work, the things you do, your life? Is chasing perfection holding you back?We feel like we're being judged all the time, and I wanted to talk about that today and open up about my own imperfections, my own insecurities and how embracing them has been key to my growth. And if you're ready to break free from your chain of perfectionism and start celebrating progress in a new way, listen to this one.In today's unscripted bonus episode, I share my honest thoughts on my own insecurities and the relentless pursuit of external validation, especially in our fitness journeys. Whether you are struggling with body image, fat loss, building muscle, hormones, menopause, aging, injury, or even your personal life (work, relationships, children, family, you name it), I hope this inspires you!A recent 1-star podcast review got me thinking about the delicate balance between letting constructive criticism stop you or fuel you.We dive into the essence of finding purpose in what you do and how continuous self-improvement will make you unstoppable. I share moments from my early career, demonstrating how embracing feedback, even when it's harsh, can propel personal growth. We uncover the power of taking messy action, pushing through setbacks, and reframing our achievements, no matter how small. We discuss the importance of community and accountability in fitness, and how to transform perceived failures into opportunities for growth.Tune in to this special bonus episode to discover how to love the process and celebrate every step of your fitness journey.To help others find the show and spread the message...🤩 Don't forget to leave a 5-star review here!💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram
May 31, 2024 • 1h 5min
Ep 177: How Anatomy Impacts Your Gut, Muscle Mass, Hormones, and Health with Justin Cottle
What are the common misconceptions about digestion and nutrient absorption? How does training sculpt your muscles, and what’s the hidden connection to your anatomy? Are you ready to discover the hidden dietary implications of your unique body variations? In this episode, Philip (@witsandweights) welcomes Justin Cottle, a former lab director at the Institute of Human Anatomy and a pioneer in using real human cadavers for public education. He is a content creator and writer of the Dissection Room, where he shares his unique perspective on human anatomy, health, and fitness.Justin discusses the digestive system's structure and functions, nutrient absorption, and hormonal effects. He also sheds light on the interplay between anatomy and exercise physiology, muscle hypertrophy, bone density, and neuroplasticity. Justin brings a fresh and intriguing perspective to human anatomy. He skillfully blends practical know-how with science, empowering you to make informed health decisions. His insights challenge and reshape conventional thinking about our bodies and their potential and redefine your understanding of your capabilities.Today, you’ll learn all about:1:56 How Justin’s interest in anatomy developed6:30 Digestive system structure and functions10:57 Nutrient absorption and hormonal effects17:24 Diet recommendation for the average active human20:26 How to approach hormone issues23:32 Hype vs factual health information28:08 Gut microbiome, dietary fibers, and diversifying your diet32:05 Anatomical variations and dietary implications40:02 Muscle hypertrophy and training impacts44:05 Interplay between anatomy and exercise physiology52:30 Bone density and nutritional support56:00 Neuroplasticity and exercise58:40 The fascial system and injury rehab1:03:02 Where to find Justin1:03:25 OutroEpisode resources:Youtube: The Dissection RoomSubstack: The Dissection RoomInstagram: @realjustincottle💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram
May 30, 2024 • 7min
Quick Wits: Brad Schoenfeld and Maximizing Muscle Growth with Mechanical Tension
Today, we're diving into the world of hypertrophy (that's science-speak for muscle growth) and uncovering one of the most powerful principles for packing on size: mechanical tension.Now, if you're a serious lifter or a student of the iron game, you've probably heard of Brad Schoenfeld. He's like the Yoda of muscle-building research, and his work has revolutionized our understanding of what it takes to optimize gains.One of the key concepts that Schoenfeld has championed is the idea that mechanical tension – the force that's generated when our muscles contract against resistance – is the primary driver of hypertrophy.But here's the thing: not all tension is created equal. To really maximize muscle growth, you need to be strategic about the way you apply that tension. And that's where Schoenfeld's research comes in.Learn about mechanical tension on today's Quick Wits!--“Quick Wits” are short mini-episodes between full episodes to give you an actionable strategy or hit of motivation.These mini-episodes give you practical advice on fitness, training, and mindset based on my everyday experience with clients that you can implement right away.If you enjoy these bonus episodes or have feedback on how to make them better, just send me a message on IG @witsandweights or hit me up in the free Wits & Weights Facebook community.💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram
May 28, 2024 • 28min
Ep 176: Heal Your Thyroid to Fix Your Metabolism and Lose Fat (Even with Hashimoto's)
Do you know how your thyroid turbocharges your metabolism? What can throw your thyroid off balance, and how can you reclaim control? Are you ready to supercharge your thyroid with easy-to-adopt lifestyle shifts?In this solo episode, Philip (@witsandweights) explores the intricate world of thyroid health and its impact on metabolism. He discusses the thyroid’s functions and the symptoms of hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism and then identifies the root causes and triggers of thyroid dysfunction, providing a comprehensive understanding of this critical gland.Philip also shares practical, evidence-based strategies for supporting thyroid health, from lifestyle and nutrition adjustments to supplementation. Whether you’re battling hypothyroidism, Hashimoto’s, or hyperthyroidism, this episode will help move you in the direction of healing and optimizing your thyroid from the inside out.It's important to remember that the information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and should NOT be considered medical advice. If you suspect an underlying medical or hormonal issue, it's always best to consult your doctor or medical practitioner. Tune in to discover how to boost your metabolism and get the body you deserve for your efforts. Don’t let your thyroid sabotage your health and fat-loss efforts any longer!Today, you’ll learn all about:4:00 What is the thyroid and its functions6:54 Symptoms of hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism9:37 Identifying the root causes and triggers of thyroid dysfunction11:36 Lifestyle and nutrition adjustments to support your thyroid22:07 Supplements for thyroid support25:56 OutroEpisode resources:Get your FREE Heal Your Thyroid guideWatch this FREE video on how to setup MacroFactor and try MacroFactor FREE with my code WITSANDWEIGHTS💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram
May 27, 2024 • 8min
Quick Wits: Seed Oils Aren't the Problem
Today, we're tackling a hot topic that's been causing quite a stir in the health and fitness world: seed oils. You know, those ubiquitous cooking oils like soybean, canola, and sunflower oil that seem to be in just about every processed food on the shelf.Now, if you've been following the latest diet trends, you might have heard some pretty scary claims about seed oils. Things like they're toxic, inflammatory, and even responsible for the rise in chronic diseases like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.But hold up, let's take a step back and look at what the actual evidence says. Despite the fearmongering, the truth is that there's no compelling scientific data showing that seed oils are inherently harmful to our health.So, if seed oils themselves aren't the problem, what's really going on here? Find out in today's Quick Wits!--“Quick Wits” are short mini-episodes between full episodes to give you an actionable strategy or hit of motivation.These mini-episodes give you practical advice on fitness, training, and mindset based on my everyday experience with clients that you can implement right away.If you enjoy these bonus episodes or have feedback on how to make them better, just send me a message on IG @witsandweights or hit me up in the free Wits & Weights Facebook community.💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram
May 25, 2024 • 52min
Bonus Episode: Why Diets Fail, Food Logging Hacks, and Additive Nutrition
This conversation is from my appearance on Sue Bush’s Physique Development Podcast.Sue invited me on HER podcast to talk about why diets fail, flexible dieting, misunderstood fitness terms, and more. I shared my best tips for making food logging easier, how tracking your food and lifting weights are forms of self-care, what metabolic adapation really is vs. what it’s not, and the MOST important thing for your health.Enjoy my conversation with Sue Bush on the Physique Development Podcast!Episode ResourcesPhysique Development Podcast with Sue Bush Ep 171: Big Butts, Strong Butts, We Love Them All! How to Train Your Glutes with Sue Bush💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram
May 24, 2024 • 56min
Ep 175: The "Big Is Beautiful" Movement, Obesity, and Heart Health with Dr. Tiffany Di Pietro
Is big really beautiful? What's the connection between LDL and coronary disease? How can someone who looks healthy have high cholesterol? What's the key to optimal heart health?In this episode, Philip's (@witsandweights) special guest is Dr. Tiffany Di Pietro, a triple board-certified cardiologist, internal medicine specialist, and nuclear cardiologist. Dr. Di Pietro discusses the "Big Is Beautiful" movement, obesity, and heart health. She also discusses various topics, including monitoring health markers, understanding LDL and saturated fats, mental health, high cholesterol, weight loss, and more. She also shares best practices for nutrition and exercise.Dr. Tiffany Di Pietro graduated from Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychobiology at 19. She became the youngest graduate of the College of Osteopathic Medicine at Nova Southeastern University. Dr. Di Pietro is passionate about educating the public about health, nutrition, and disease prevention. Her approach to healthcare is infectious positivity, and the rule she lives by is: BE NICE. Today, you’ll learn all about:0:00 Intro3:03 Debunking heart disease myths and the importance of preventative measures6:07 What health markers should be monitored7:32 The importance of understanding LDL in preventing coronary disease12:36 Threshold for saturated fats, and measuring inflammatory markers17:57 The significance of calcium scores and fiber21:56 Resistance training for heart health, especially for women23:41 How much walking affects cardiovascular health26:37 The impact of mental health on cardiovascular well-being29:01 Typical causes of high cholesterol in people who appear to be healthy30:26 Is big beautiful and/or healthy?36:06 Advice for someone struggling to lose weight41:54 Dr. Di Pietro’s "be nice" philosophy 44:18 Does genetically elevated LDL in perimenopause predispose you to higher cardiovascular risk?45:41 Testosterone and cardiovascular health concerns49:52 What question did Dr. Di Pietro wish Philip had asked54:29 Where to find Dr. Di Pietro55:01 OutroEpisode resources:Dr. Di Pietro's IG: @drtiffanydipietro and @dipietrohealth/ Website: DiPietroHealth.com 💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram
