Muscles by Brussels Radio

In this episode of Vegan Proteins' Muscles by Brussels Radio, Ben is joined by coaches Sawyer and Giacomo for a roundtable discussion on common beginner fitness mistakes and myths that can hold people back. They break down misconceptions around cardio, nutrition, muscle growth, training intensity, and building sustainable habits.The coaches discuss why cardio can actually improve performance, why nutrition doesn’t need to be perfect to build muscle, and why effective training comes down to consistency, progressive overload, and proper execution. They also cover myths like high reps being better for “toning,” soreness being required for growth, and machines being inferior to free weights.The episode highlights the importance of focusing on the fundamentals, learning how to train effectively, and avoiding extreme approaches that distract from what actually drives long-term progress. Whether you’re new to fitness or have been training for years, these lessons can help you build a better approach.🌱 Coaching ApplicationTake your fitness and nutrition goals to the next level with one-on-one coaching:http://www.veganproteins.com/personal-training 📖 Free 7-Day High-Protein Meal Plan:https://bit.ly/4kab1Ll💪 Muscles by Brussels Membership:Try it free for one month:https://www.veganproteins.com/muscles-by-brussels-membership-free-trial/ ✅ Membership Includes: 4 live coaching calls per month Monthly home or gym workouts 200+ high-protein vegan recipes Exclusive app features Habit challenges with cash prizes A supportive vegan athlete community 🔗 Follow Us Online: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/veganproteins/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VeganProteins Website: https://www.veganproteins.com/ Apparel: Muscles by Brussels Tank Tops SCIENCE:MASS (Monthly Application In Strength Sport): MASS is one of our secret weapons and it continues to be an invaluable resource for us to keep up to date with the latest research. Don’t get swept up in fads or bogus info. Sign up and stay up to date with easy-to-consume journals and support the evidence-based fitness community.=================================

In this episode of Muscles by Brussels Radio, Ben sits down with coaching client Kelsey to discuss her remarkable first bodybuilding season, which culminated in earning professional status. Kelsey shares what initially inspired her to compete, how she balanced contest prep with a demanding legal career, and the lessons she learned about consistency, flexibility, and self-belief throughout the process.The conversation also explores Kelsey’s long-standing commitment to animal advocacy, her journey from vegetarian to vegan, and how those values shaped both her career and lifestyle. They discuss the realities of contest prep, overcoming perfectionism, navigating setbacks, managing travel and work responsibilities, and why having the right coach and support system can make such a profound difference. Kelsey also reflects on the experience of stepping on stage for the first time, achieving pro status, and what comes next after accomplishing a goal that had been decades in the making.🌱 Coaching ApplicationTake your fitness and nutrition goals to the next level with one-on-one coaching:http://www.veganproteins.com/personal-training 📖 Free 7-Day High-Protein Meal Plan:https://bit.ly/4kab1Ll💪 Muscles by Brussels Membership:Try it free for one month:https://www.veganproteins.com/muscles-by-brussels-membership-free-trial/ ✅ Membership Includes: 4 live coaching calls per month Monthly home or gym workouts 200+ high-protein vegan recipes Exclusive app features Habit challenges with cash prizes A supportive vegan athlete community 🔗 Follow Us Online: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/veganproteins/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VeganProteins Website: https://www.veganproteins.com/ Apparel: Muscles by Brussels Tank Tops SCIENCE:MASS (Monthly Application In Strength Sport): MASS is one of our secret weapons and it continues to be an invaluable resource for us to keep up to date with the latest research. Don’t get swept up in fads or bogus info. Sign up and stay up to date with easy-to-consume journals and support the evidence-based fitness community.=================================

Ben and Sawyer begin with a life update covering travel, training structure, and adapting to new environments as a vegan athlete living abroad. Sawyer discusses moving from Spain to Albania, dealing with culture shock, finding vegan food options, and maintaining gym consistency while adjusting to a new lifestyle.Ben shares updates on training flexibility, managing stress, and maintaining progress through structured but adaptable programming. They also discuss meal prep strategies, including homemade soy milk, tofu, seitan, and high-protein vegan foods, along with the importance of sustainability in long-term physique development.The main discussion focuses on the creators and educators who have influenced their perspectives on vegan nutrition, bodybuilding, and evidence-based fitness. They highlight a mix of scientists, coaches, communicators, and advocates who bridge research and practical application.They discuss why these voices stand out, the importance of evidence-based communication, and how different styles of content (long-form podcasts vs short-form videos) serve different learning preferences.🌱 Coaching ApplicationTake your fitness and nutrition goals to the next level with one-on-one coaching:http://www.veganproteins.com/personal-training 📖 Free 7-Day High-Protein Meal Plan:https://bit.ly/4kab1Ll💪 Muscles by Brussels Membership:Try it free for one month:https://www.veganproteins.com/muscles-by-brussels-membership-free-trial/ ✅ Membership Includes: 4 live coaching calls per month Monthly home or gym workouts 200+ high-protein vegan recipes Exclusive app features Habit challenges with cash prizes A supportive vegan athlete community 🔗 Follow Us Online: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/veganproteins/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VeganProteins Website: https://www.veganproteins.com/ Apparel: Muscles by Brussels Tank Tops SCIENCE:MASS (Monthly Application In Strength Sport): MASS is one of our secret weapons and it continues to be an invaluable resource for us to keep up to date with the latest research. Don’t get swept up in fads or bogus info. Sign up and stay up to date with easy-to-consume journals and support the evidence-based fitness community.=================================

In this episode, Ben and Giacomo are joined by Dr. Michael Greger to discuss one of the most debated topics in nutrition and fitness: protein intake. The conversation covers how much protein we actually need, the potential longevity tradeoffs of excessive protein consumption, and why plant protein may offer unique advantages compared to animal protein.Dr. Greger explains the role of methionine restriction, IGF-1, and mTOR in aging, while also emphasizing the importance of resistance training and muscle mass for long-term health. The group discusses fall prevention, balance training, sarcopenia, insulin sensitivity, and the challenges of communicating science in today’s attention economy.The episode wraps up with practical nutrition advice, thoughts on protein powders versus whole foods, and Dr. Greger’s enthusiasm for broccoli sprouts and sulforaphane-rich foods.Dr. Greger's Bio: Dr. Michael Greger is a physician, internationally recognized nutrition speaker, and founding Fellow of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine. He runs the nonprofit NutritionFacts.org, which provides free evidence-based nutrition videos and articles. A graduate of Cornell University and Tufts University School of Medicine, Dr. Greger has lectured at the World Bank, testified before Congress, and served as an expert witness in Oprah Winfrey’s “meat defamation” trial. He is the bestselling author of How Not to Die, How Not to Diet, and How Not to Age. All proceeds from his books and speaking engagements are donated to charity. 🌱 Coaching ApplicationTake your fitness and nutrition goals to the next level with one-on-one coaching:http://www.veganproteins.com/personal-training 📖 Free 7-Day High-Protein Meal Plan:https://bit.ly/4kab1Ll💪 Muscles by Brussels Membership:Try it free for one month:https://www.veganproteins.com/muscles-by-brussels-membership-free-trial/ ✅ Membership Includes: 4 live coaching calls per month Monthly home or gym workouts 200+ high-protein vegan recipes Exclusive app features Habit challenges with cash prizes A supportive vegan athlete community 🔗 Follow Us Online: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/veganproteins/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VeganProteins Website: https://www.veganproteins.com/ Apparel: Muscles by Brussels Tank Tops SCIENCE:MASS (Monthly Application In Strength Sport): MASS is one of our secret weapons and it continues to be an invaluable resource for us to keep up to date with the latest research. Don’t get swept up in fads or bogus info. Sign up and stay up to date with easy-to-consume journals and support the evidence-based fitness community.=================================

In this episode of Muscles by Brussels Radio, Dani shares her full journey, from growing up in a low-income household with poor nutrition habits to becoming a leader in vegan fitness coaching.She opens up about early weight struggles, discovering veganism, and losing over 80 pounds through diet alone, only to later face disordered eating patterns fueled by “clean eating” culture. Dani discusses how misinformation, extreme dieting, and toxic fitness influences shaped her mindset, and how she eventually broke free by embracing evidence-based approaches.The conversation also dives into the origins of Vegan Proteins, lessons learned from coaching, and why sustainable systems (not perfection) are the key to long-term success. Dani closes with advice for anyone starting their fitness journey and a reminder that your background doesn’t define your future.🌱 Coaching ApplicationTake your fitness and nutrition goals to the next level with one-on-one coaching:http://www.veganproteins.com/personal-training 📖 Free 7-Day High-Protein Meal Plan:https://bit.ly/4kab1Ll💪 Muscles by Brussels Membership:Try it free for one month:https://www.veganproteins.com/muscles-by-brussels-membership-free-trial/ ✅ Membership Includes: 4 live coaching calls per month Monthly home or gym workouts 200+ high-protein vegan recipes Exclusive app features Habit challenges with cash prizes A supportive vegan athlete community 🔗 Follow Us Online: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/veganproteins/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VeganProteins Website: https://www.veganproteins.com/ Apparel: Muscles by Brussels Tank Tops SCIENCE:MASS (Monthly Application In Strength Sport): MASS is one of our secret weapons and it continues to be an invaluable resource for us to keep up to date with the latest research. Don’t get swept up in fads or bogus info. Sign up and stay up to date with easy-to-consume journals and support the evidence-based fitness community.=================================

In this episode, Ben shares his full journey into bodybuilding and coaching, from early insecurities and extreme dieting to developing a more balanced, sustainable approach to fitness.He talks about how his mindset evolved, why relationships and lifestyle flexibility now play a bigger role in his approach, and how those lessons shape the way he coaches clients today.The conversation dives into the psychology of behavior change, the challenges of coaching different personalities, and why long-term success in bodybuilding requires more than just discipline...it requires adaptability and self-awareness. 🌱 Coaching ApplicationTake your fitness and nutrition goals to the next level with one-on-one coaching:http://www.veganproteins.com/personal-training 📖 Free 7-Day High-Protein Meal Plan:https://bit.ly/4kab1Ll💪 Muscles by Brussels Membership:Try it free for one month:https://www.veganproteins.com/muscles-by-brussels-membership-free-trial/ ✅ Membership Includes: 4 live coaching calls per month Monthly home or gym workouts 200+ high-protein vegan recipes Exclusive app features Habit challenges with cash prizes A supportive vegan athlete community 🔗 Follow Us Online: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/veganproteins/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VeganProteins Website: https://www.veganproteins.com/ Apparel: Muscles by Brussels Tank Tops SCIENCE:MASS (Monthly Application In Strength Sport): MASS is one of our secret weapons and it continues to be an invaluable resource for us to keep up to date with the latest research. Don’t get swept up in fads or bogus info. Sign up and stay up to date with easy-to-consume journals and support the evidence-based fitness community.=================================

In this episode, Ben sits down with Coach Sawyer to kick off a new series highlighting the personal stories behind the Vegan Proteins coaching team. Sawyer shares his evolution from a sports-loving kid with performance anxiety to a dedicated lifter navigating body image struggles, extreme bulking phases, and ultimately finding balance in his fitness journey.They dive into the mental and emotional side of bodybuilding, including chasing validation, overcoming insecurity, and learning to let go of extremes in pursuit of a more sustainable physique. Sawyer also opens up about his transition to veganism, how it reshaped his values and worldview, and the unexpected health and emotional benefits he’s experienced over the past decade.This episode is a deep, honest look at what it really takes to build not just muscle—but a healthier relationship with fitness, identity, and long-term goals.🌱 Coaching ApplicationTake your fitness and nutrition goals to the next level with one-on-one coaching:http://www.veganproteins.com/personal-training 📖 Free 7-Day High-Protein Meal Plan:https://bit.ly/4kab1Ll💪 Muscles by Brussels Membership:Try it free for one month:https://www.veganproteins.com/muscles-by-brussels-membership-free-trial/ ✅ Membership Includes: 4 live coaching calls per month Monthly home or gym workouts 200+ high-protein vegan recipes Exclusive app features Habit challenges with cash prizes A supportive vegan athlete community 🔗 Follow Us Online: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/veganproteins/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VeganProteins Website: https://www.veganproteins.com/ Apparel: Muscles by Brussels Tank Tops SCIENCE:MASS (Monthly Application In Strength Sport): MASS is one of our secret weapons and it continues to be an invaluable resource for us to keep up to date with the latest research. Don’t get swept up in fads or bogus info. Sign up and stay up to date with easy-to-consume journals and support the evidence-based fitness community.=================================

In this episode, Giacomo and Sawyer tackle a challenge nearly every lifter eventually faces: getting injured. They discuss the mental side of dealing with setbacks, how to adjust your training without completely losing momentum, and the importance of patience during recovery.The conversation covers practical strategies like modifying exercises, managing training volume and intensity, and focusing on what you can still train. They also talk about long-term thinking in bodybuilding: why pushing through injuries can often do more harm than good, and how smart adjustments can keep you progressing while healing.If you’ve ever wondered how to stay productive in the gym while recovering from an injury, this episode provides a realistic and thoughtful approach to navigating setbacks.🌱 Coaching ApplicationTake your fitness and nutrition goals to the next level with one-on-one coaching:http://www.veganproteins.com/personal-training 📖 Free 7-Day High-Protein Meal Plan:https://bit.ly/4kab1Ll💪 Muscles by Brussels Membership:Try it free for one month:https://www.veganproteins.com/muscles-by-brussels-membership-free-trial/ ✅ Membership Includes: 4 live coaching calls per month Monthly home or gym workouts 200+ high-protein vegan recipes Exclusive app features Habit challenges with cash prizes A supportive vegan athlete community 🔗 Follow Us Online: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/veganproteins/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VeganProteins Website: https://www.veganproteins.com/ Apparel: Muscles by Brussels Tank Tops SCIENCE:MASS (Monthly Application In Strength Sport): MASS is one of our secret weapons and it continues to be an invaluable resource for us to keep up to date with the latest research. Don’t get swept up in fads or bogus info. Sign up and stay up to date with easy-to-consume journals and support the evidence-based fitness community.=================================

In this episode of Muscles by Brussels Radio, Ben and Dani break down how to spot scam artists in the fitness and wellness space. They discuss common red flags like speaking in absolutes, fear-mongering about foods and training methods, overpromising results, expert creep, manipulative sales tactics, and parasocial marketing.The conversation also explores the difference between ethical coaching and predatory practices, how to evaluate online content critically, and why nuance, transparency, and accountability matter when choosing who to trust with your health and fitness goals. 🌱 Coaching ApplicationTake your fitness and nutrition goals to the next level with one-on-one coaching:http://www.veganproteins.com/personal-training 📖 Free 7-Day High-Protein Meal Plan:https://bit.ly/4kab1Ll💪 Muscles by Brussels Membership:Try it free for one month:https://www.veganproteins.com/muscles-by-brussels-membership-free-trial/ ✅ Membership Includes: 4 live coaching calls per month Monthly home or gym workouts 200+ high-protein vegan recipes Exclusive app features Habit challenges with cash prizes A supportive vegan athlete community 🔗 Follow Us Online: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/veganproteins/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VeganProteins Website: https://www.veganproteins.com/ Apparel: Muscles by Brussels Tank Tops SCIENCE:MASS (Monthly Application In Strength Sport): MASS is one of our secret weapons and it continues to be an invaluable resource for us to keep up to date with the latest research. Don’t get swept up in fads or bogus info. Sign up and stay up to date with easy-to-consume journals and support the evidence-based fitness community.=================================

In this episode of Muscles by Brussels Radio, Ben sits down with Dr. Minil Patel (aka @DrIronJunkie), UK-based GP and lifestyle medicine physician, to unpack one of the most controversial topics in nutrition right now: are ultra-processed foods actually unhealthy...and where do plant-based meats fit in?They dive into Dr. Patel’s journey from heavy meat-eater (including wild game and keto-style eating) to ethical vegan, and discuss the science behind plant-based meat alternatives, LDL cholesterol, saturated fat, and cardiometabolic risk. The conversation explores the NOVA food classification system, common misconceptions about “processed” foods, and why comparing foods to what they replace matters more than labeling them as simply “natural” or “ultra-processed.”They also tackle current U.S. dietary guidelines, protein recommendations, vegan nutrient concerns, and whether plant protein intake should be limited. This episode blends ethics, evidence-based nutrition, and practical application for athletes and everyday vegans alike.If you’ve ever wondered whether plant-based meats are harming your health or helping it, this is a must-listen.Dr. Minil PatelCenter for Science in the Public InterestPlant Based Juniors🌱 Coaching ApplicationTake your fitness and nutrition goals to the next level with one-on-one coaching:http://www.veganproteins.com/personal-training 📖 Free 7-Day High-Protein Meal Plan:https://bit.ly/4kab1Ll💪 Muscles by Brussels Membership:Try it free for one month:https://www.veganproteins.com/muscles-by-brussels-membership-free-trial/ ✅ Membership Includes: 4 live coaching calls per month Monthly home or gym workouts 200+ high-protein vegan recipes Exclusive app features Habit challenges with cash prizes A supportive vegan athlete community 🔗 Follow Us Online: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/veganproteins/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VeganProteins Website: https://www.veganproteins.com/ Apparel: Muscles by Brussels Tank Tops SCIENCE:MASS (Monthly Application In Strength Sport): MASS is one of our secret weapons and it continues to be an invaluable resource for us to keep up to date with the latest research. Don’t get swept up in fads or bogus info. Sign up and stay up to date with easy-to-consume journals and support the evidence-based fitness community.=================================

What if staying fit didn’t mean forcing yourself through workouts you hate?In this episode, Dani and Sawyer talk honestly about exercise burnout, why so many people struggle to stay consistent, and how redefining “fitness” can change everything.They break down practical ways to build strength and improve cardio without running, burpees, or rigid gym rules, and explain why enjoyment, curiosity, and sustainability matter more than doing the “hardest” option.If you’ve ever felt like exercise is just something you should do (but secretly dread), this episode will help you find a more realistic, livable approach to fitness. 🌱 Coaching ApplicationTake your fitness and nutrition goals to the next level with one-on-one coaching:http://www.veganproteins.com/personal-training 📖 Free 7-Day High-Protein Meal Plan:https://bit.ly/4kab1Ll💪 Muscles by Brussels Membership:Try it free for one month:https://www.veganproteins.com/muscles-by-brussels-membership-free-trial/ ✅ Membership Includes: 4 live coaching calls per month Monthly home or gym workouts 200+ high-protein vegan recipes Exclusive app features Habit challenges with cash prizes A supportive vegan athlete community 🔗 Follow Us Online: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/veganproteins/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VeganProteins Website: https://www.veganproteins.com/ Apparel: Muscles by Brussels Tank Tops SCIENCE:MASS (Monthly Application In Strength Sport): MASS is one of our secret weapons and it continues to be an invaluable resource for us to keep up to date with the latest research. Don’t get swept up in fads or bogus info. Sign up and stay up to date with easy-to-consume journals and support the evidence-based fitness community.=================================

In this episode, Giacomo and Sawyer explore why coaches need coaches, even at the highest levels of fitness and bodybuilding.They dive into the emotional side of coaching, accountability, mindset, and how having the right support can unlock long-term progress.Through personal stories and coaching experiences, they explain why great coaching goes far beyond training programs and nutrition, and how the right coach helps athletes think better and not just train harder. 🌱 Coaching ApplicationTake your fitness and nutrition goals to the next level with one-on-one coaching:http://www.veganproteins.com/personal-training 📖 Free 7-Day High-Protein Meal Plan:https://bit.ly/4kab1Ll💪 Muscles by Brussels Membership:Try it free for one month:https://www.veganproteins.com/muscles-by-brussels-membership-free-trial/ ✅ Membership Includes: 4 live coaching calls per month Monthly home or gym workouts 200+ high-protein vegan recipes Exclusive app features Habit challenges with cash prizes A supportive vegan athlete community 🔗 Follow Us Online: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/veganproteins/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VeganProteins Website: https://www.veganproteins.com/ Apparel: Muscles by Brussels Tank Tops SCIENCE:MASS (Monthly Application In Strength Sport): MASS is one of our secret weapons and it continues to be an invaluable resource for us to keep up to date with the latest research. Don’t get swept up in fads or bogus info. Sign up and stay up to date with easy-to-consume journals and support the evidence-based fitness community.=================================

In this episode of Vegan Proteins' Muscles by Brussels Radio, Giacomo and Dani dive into what it really means to find and ask for support on a fitness journey.From navigating family dynamics and romantic relationships to handling food environments, training schedules, and social pressure, they explore practical strategies for getting support without creating conflict.They also discuss the role of community, why hyper-independence can be limiting, and how shared fitness spaces can dramatically improve motivation, adherence, and overall well-being, especially for vegan athletes. 🌱 Coaching ApplicationTake your fitness and nutrition goals to the next level with one-on-one coaching:http://www.veganproteins.com/personal-training 📖 Free 7-Day High-Protein Meal Plan:https://bit.ly/4kab1Ll💪 Muscles by Brussels Membership:Try it free for one month:https://www.veganproteins.com/muscles-by-brussels-membership-free-trial/ ✅ Membership Includes: 4 live coaching calls per month Monthly home or gym workouts 200+ high-protein vegan recipes Exclusive app features Habit challenges with cash prizes A supportive vegan athlete community 🔗 Follow Us Online: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/veganproteins/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VeganProteins Website: https://www.veganproteins.com/ Apparel: Muscles by Brussels Tank Tops SCIENCE:MASS (Monthly Application In Strength Sport): MASS is one of our secret weapons and it continues to be an invaluable resource for us to keep up to date with the latest research. Don’t get swept up in fads or bogus info. Sign up and stay up to date with easy-to-consume journals and support the evidence-based fitness community.=================================