50% Facts with Silent Mike & Jim McD

In something of an annual tradition, the Holiday Film Fest is back with this Christmas flick for Thanksgiving. Yes, Die Hard 2 is a Christmas movie!   In this film, detective John McClane (Bruce Willis) tries to stop a terrorist plot at Washington D.C.'s Dulles International Airport on Christmas Eve. After the incident at Nakatomi Plaza, it’s fair to wonder if this guy can ever catch a break. If nothing else, the broadcast version of this film gave us the iconic phrase, “Yippee Ki‐Yay, Mister Falcon!” Josh Hajjar is back to help break this one down. You can find Josh on Instagram @amazingjrab https://www.instagram.com/amazingjrab/. Shoot him a follow. ____ Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com! Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/! Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/ 50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523)       Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 26 November 2025

In this conversation, Jim and Paul Oneid discuss the current state of gyms post-pandemic, sharing insights on the challenges faced by gym owners and members alike. They delve into Paul's personal journey of injury recovery after a severe quad injury, exploring the innovative rehabilitation techniques he employed. The discussion also highlights the importance of foundational training and the long-term commitment necessary for maintaining health and fitness. In this conversation, Paul discusses the importance of sustainable fitness habits, the role of relationships in coaching, and understanding client motivations. He emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to nutrition and fitness, focusing on abundance rather than restriction.  The discussion also explores the application of peptides in health and performance, emphasizing the importance of monitoring and understanding their effects. Overall, the conversation provides valuable insights into coaching, nutrition, and personal development.   You can find Paul on Instagram @pauloneid https://www.instagram.com/pauloneid/ Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/! Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/ 50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. ____   Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 12 November 2025

This is something of a follow-up to episode 491 with John Gaglione about the training environment. This time, Larry Wheels, who was coached by John and has become an iconic figure in the fitness world, joins (from Russia!). In this conversation, Larry Wheels Williams discusses his journey in powerlifting, emphasizing the importance of resilience, communication, and mental preparation. He reflects on the setbacks he faced, particularly the feeling of bombing out of competitions, which ignited his determination to succeed. The dialogue explores how effective communication with coaches and teammates can enhance performance and the mental strategies that athletes can employ to prepare for competitions. You can find Larry on Instagram @larrywheels https://www.instagram.com/larry wheels   You can find John on Instagram @gaglionestrength https://www.instagram.com/gaglionestrength/   All the info for the strict curl competition at Larry Wheels’ gym in California> https://meets.revolutionpowerlifting.com/2026/01/17/larry-wheels-west-coast-curl/ Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/!   Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/   50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network.   ____   Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523)     Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 5 November 2025

In this conversation, Jim McDonald speaks with Kevin Meier, a former Marine, video game character, and fitness coach, about his journey from military service to the fitness industry. Kevin has survived and learned to cope with a devastating accidental injury. Through his employment at Blizzard Entertainment, he met someone who was critical to recovering his strength and physical capabilities. He also came to understand that he had to find a life mission and let it chart his path.   They discuss the importance of community-driven fitness initiatives, the value of low-cost resources, and personal transformation stories. Kevin shares his experiences with mental health, PTSD, and the challenges of the fitness industry, emphasizing the need for critical thinking and authenticity. The conversation highlights the potential of future generations to challenge existing norms and create positive change in the fitness landscape.   You can find Kevin on Instagram @pure_bullfit https://www.instagram.com/pure_bullfit Chapters   00:00 Introduction to Kevin's Journey 05:42 Community-Driven Fitness Initiatives 11:32 Military Experience and Its Impact 17:16 Finding Purpose Through Strength Training 23:57 The Importance of Authentic Connections 29:06 Reflections on Life and Relationships 38:47 Impact and Authenticity in Life 45:56 Transitioning to Coaching and Mentorship 54:48 Personal Accountability and Growth 01:00:35 Critique of the Fitness Industry 01:08:23 Future Generations and Critical Thinking Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/!   Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/   50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network.   ____   Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523)   Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 29 October 2025

John Gaglione joins to discuss the evolution of powerlifting, coaching philosophies, and the importance of community in strength training. They explore the challenges of weight loss expectations, the significance of performance goals, and the shift in training approaches over the years. John shares his experiences in bodybuilding and the impact it had on his powerlifting journey, while also emphasizing the need for realistic expectations in fitness. The discussion also touches on the rise of strict curl competitions and the accessibility of strength sports, highlighting the importance of making fitness enjoyable and sustainable for everyone. You can find John on Instagram @gaglionestrength https://www.instagram.com/gaglionestrength/   All the info for the strict curl competition at Larry Wheels’ gym in California> https://meets.revolutionpowerlifting.com/2026/01/17/larry-wheels-west-coast-curl/ Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/!   Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/   50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network.   ____   Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/  Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Chapters   00:00 Introduction and Background 02:02 Powerlifting Journey and Coaching Philosophy 05:55 Bodybuilding Experience and Personal Goals 10:06 Realistic Expectations in Weight Loss 13:51 Lifestyle Changes and Community Support 17:57 Training Culture and Powerlifting Evolution 21:35 The Role of Coaching in Powerlifting 27:50 Long-Term Goals and Consistency 36:36 The Importance of Realistic Coaching Expectations 39:38 The Dark Side of Bodybuilding Coaching 40:21 The Evolution of Powerlifting Training Methods 43:12 Long-Term Health in Strength Sports 45:47 The Balance Between Competition and Longevity 48:38 The Future of Strength Training and Coaching 50:40 The Rise of Strict Curl Competitions 01:06:26 Promoting Strength Sports Accessibility Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 22 October 2025

Comedian (and personal training manager) Nick Scopoletti returns to chat about growing his comedy career, working with Lisa Lampanelli, managing personal trainers, and how his personal warmth has been kind of a cheat code.  You can find Nick on Instagram @nickscopes https://www.instagram.com/nickscopes/ and as Lisa Lampanelli’s sidekick on her podcast, Shrink This https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shrink-this-with-lisa-lampanelli/id1819746873     The AI generated summary In this engaging conversation, Jim McDonald and Nick Scopoletti explore themes of friendship, cynicism, personal growth, and the comedy journey. They reflect on their experiences in the fitness industry, the impact of COVID, and the importance of networking in the comedy scene. The discussion also touches on family dynamics, wealth, and the challenges of managing people in the workplace. Throughout the conversation, they share humorous anecdotes and insights, emphasizing the value of perseverance and self-discovery in both personal and professional realms. Chapters   00:00 Warm Connections and Cynical Reflections 03:05 The Comedy Journey: Struggles and Triumphs 05:50 Navigating Life's Changes: Comedy and Personal Growth 08:46 The Impact of COVID-19 on Mental Health 11:49 Family Dynamics and Personal Insights 14:38 The Reality of Working in the Fitness Industry 17:40 Acting, Comedy, and Authenticity 20:40 Nostalgia and Cultural Identity 23:26 Creative Outlets and Self-Expression 31:48 Expo Experiences and Bodybuilding Culture 35:44 Managing a Fitness Team 39:44 Clientele Development in Boutique Gyms 44:39 Wealth, Work Ethic, and Personal Growth 50:08 Networking and Social Media Surprises 55:58 Memorable Encounters with Icons Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 1 October 2025

Jerry Molinero, one of our trainers here at Third Street Barbell, joins to talk about losing over 100 lbs and some of the habits, foods, and situations that make dieting harder.   We also discuss a few influencers we think are getting it right on social media.   You can find him on Instagram @jerrykilos https://www.instagram.com/jerrykilos Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com!   Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/!   Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/   50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 25 September 2025

In this conversation, Jim McDonald and Jonathan Gregg explore a variety of themes, including parenting, the dynamics of living in New York City, the journey of performance and acting, mental health, and the impact of social media on personal identity. They discuss the importance of authenticity, the role of anger in society, and the significance of personal growth. The conversation also touches on fitness and the unique experiences of being a stay-at-home dad, as well as the cultural commentary that arises from their respective experiences. (Experimenting with AI-generated show notes on this one. No idea if it will make any difference in discoverability.) Jonathan is the only guest who has both been on this show and appeared in the MCU (Jessica Jones). Also, he's the only guest whose whole ass I've actually seen (HBO's High Maintenance, Season 2, Episode 1). He's super cool, and I could have kept talking to him a long time, but I'd already made him run late. You can catch Jonathan and his best friend, Tom on the No Homo Podcast -- Two best friends (one straight and one gay) riff on their daily lives, the insanity of current events, and what it means to be a man – gassing each other up while the world burns. (Jonathan is the straight one.) https://www.youtube.com/@NoHomoPodcastwJonathanandTom You can find him on Instagram @jgregg_jonathan and @nohomopod. Takeaways Learning how to learn is crucial for personal development.  Anger often masks deeper emotions like sadness or fear. Parenting involves navigating societal norms and expectations. Mental health discussions should be normalized and destigmatized. Improv can teach valuable life skills like adaptability and listening. Social media can amplify voices but also create pressure for validation. Authenticity in content creation resonates more with audiences. Fitness can be a form of personal expression and growth. Cultural commentary is essential in understanding societal dynamics. Personal growth often comes from recognizing and addressing one's own flaws. Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com! Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/! Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/ 50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. ____ Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 17 September 2025

David Tao returns to the show to take us inside the world of theater production and spirits (not the BOO!) kind. Following up his role as the successful CEO of Barbend.com, David has taken on two new roles he’s passionate about: producing theater in New York, and writing about spirits – primarily whiskey and bourbon. He discusses the role of a producer and gives us an inside view of the process of selecting and developing a show for the stage. He also gives tips on how to find out spirits you enjoy, and how to develop a discerning palate (and have fun while doing it). You can find David on Instagram @davidthomastao https://www.instagram.com/davidthomastao and on X @d-tao https://x.com/d_tao. Give him a follow. He's got great content every day.  Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com! Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/! 50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/ ____   Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 3 September 2025

From 2009 to 2020, The Biggest Loser was a phenomenon. A huge cultural moment. What it wasn’t, however, was a show about healthy lifestyles and healthy weight loss.   Netflix’s Fit for TV: The Reality of the Biggest Loser examines what it was like for some contestants on the show and some members of the production. The push to keep the show in the spotlight wreaked havoc on lives, relationships, and, in some cases, health. Does the documentary series exploit the contestants in a similar way to the show did? Josh Hajjar, who has personal experience with significant weight loss, joins in as guest cohost. You can find Josh on Instagram @amazingjrab https://www.instagram.com/amazingjrab/. Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com! Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/! Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/ 50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. ____   Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 27 August 2025

Our gym, Third Street Barbell, is blessed to have three physical therapy providers as members at the moment. Ammar and Moe work together in a clinic that treats patients covered by workers comp insurance. Are the metrics of physical therapy success different when return to work is the goal? You can find Ammar on Instagram @ammar_alhaidar https://www.instagram.com/ammar_alhaidar and Moe at  @thebuffguy https://www.instagram.com/thebuffguy Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com! Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/! Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/ 50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 20 August 2025

Some things definitely diminish with age, but the need for strength is not among them. After being introduced to designing fitness training for others in the Coast Guard and a career in the California Highway Patrol, Ralph Caggiano turned to helping clients get stronger as they age. While he does train clients of all ages, he specializes in older clients and their specific needs.   You can find Ralph on Instagram @longevity_cpt https://www.instagram.com/longevity_cpt Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com! Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/! Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/ 50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. ____ Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 13 August 2025

Unlike some powerlifters who turn to bodybuilding, Riley always knew it was something he wanted to do. Other goals and priorities simply got in the way. When the opportunity came to leave construction work and retail management for personal training, he jumped in with both feet. Riley is our head trainer at Third Street Barbell. He shares the story of his journey to the stage in this episode. You can find Riley on Instagram @riley_corbett https://www.instagram.com/riley_corbett/ Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com! Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/! Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/ 50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. ____   Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523)       Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 6 August 2025

Powerlifter and Registered Dietitian Dan Feldman guests this episode to break down some nutrition strategies for competitive powerlifters. Is a crazy amount of protein necessary? Are carbs around workouts good or bad? You can find Dan on Instagram @powerlifterdietitian https://www.instagram.com/powerlifterdietitian/. Shoot him a follow. Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com! Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/! Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/ 50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523)   Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 30 July 2025

The former International Powerlifting Federation affiliate representing the United States, the USAPL, took to instagram recently to criticize the integrity of its drug testing program through WADA. The post using quotes from Olympic athletes casting doubt on some actions made by the testing agency. This is significant because a disagreement over the frequency of testing through WADA caused the USAPL to lose its affiliation with the international federation (it wanted to test more frequently, among other issues). Bottom line, what would make the “juice” with the squeeze (and the risk) anyway? The USAPL post: https://www.instagram.com/p/DMF-6zRsq3x/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ== You can find Josh on Instagram @amazingjrab https://www.instagram.com/amazingjrab/. Shoot him a follow. Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com! Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/! Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/ 50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523)   Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 23 July 2025

Justin Wright is a sales executive who found himself in a position that’s all too common for executives: overweight and out of shape. Work stress, the demands of travel and entertaining, inconsistent diet, family responsibilities, etc., had taken control. He felt that he had to take it back. So, he lost 60 pounds, got jacked, and along the way, he leveraged his background in science into a system that worked for him—and would work for other executives. Justin shares some insights into the most valuable lessons he has learned.   You can find Justin on Instagram @wrightlifestyleandfitness https://www.instagram.com/wrightlifestyleandfitness/. Shoot him a follow. Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/! Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/ 50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. ____ Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 17 July 2025

Toby spent a decade as a first responder -- with all the stress and hazards those careers entail. Then, he left it all behind to marry a woman with a military career. Military families are used to not having control of a lot of the conditions of their lives, especially where they live and what kinds of jobs are available to spouses. A lifelong interest in fitness led to the kind of flexible work that this military spouse and dad was looking for. Now he's coaching remotely and trains clients in person, and has made their fitness his personal mission. You can find Toby on Instagram @theokayestcoach. (His IG handle lets you know he doesn’t take himself too seriously.) Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/! Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/ 50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. ____ Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 9 July 2025

Just a couple of days past the official Men’s Mental Health Month, we take a look at a short, but powerful documentary available on YouTube, “The Voices of Men.” It was produced in the UK and is driven by men telling their personal stories of struggle with mental health conditions such as depression and PTSD. Their faces are never seen, and their identities are never revealed. No doubt their words will resonate for many who watch/listen to this documentary.   The doc is available here: https://youtu.be/Y0F1cICm9IM?si=QqtdhTxTZwhIv1BO   We start off with another mental health story. That of the Liver King and his recent run-in with the law after threatening Joe Rogan. Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/! Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/ 50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. ____ Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 2 July 2025

Some athletes are made for super stardom on the field of play, but truly fumble in their personal lives. Brett Favre is one of them. From dick pic scandals to alleged fraud, Farve tarnished his legacy with a series of seemingly boneheaded moves. This Netflix documentary series takes a sharply critical look at one of the game’s best quarterbacks, one who maybe never understood how good he had it, and definitely didn’t know when to quit. oin our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com! Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/ and subscribe for updates about our apparel line at goodcompanyapparel.com https://3sb.co/! Local memberships and international fresh fits! Get early access to our NEXT DROP! Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/ 50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. ____ Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 25 June 2025

At Third Street Barbell, we’re lucky enough to have three physical therapists as members. Jim’s been working with Patrick Bell on a shoulder injury and has been very impressed with his knowledge and how he structures and communicates his rehab exercise selections. Since Patrick’s clients are mainly online, we thought it would be good to chat with him about what makes a good physical therapy (and coaching) relationship. He works with Move Your Bones PT, which combines rehabilitation and performance coaching, so he’s uniquely suited to address the issues of working athletes, particularly in a virtual setting.   Also, Mike’s back for a bit from his own gig as a traveling coach.   You can find Dr. Bell on Instagram at @ptpatbell.   Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com! Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/ and subscribe for updates about our apparel line at goodcompanyapparel.com https://3sb.co/! Local memberships and international fresh fits! Get early access to our NEXT DROP! Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/ 50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. ____ Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 18 June 2025

Jacob Ross joins Jim to take on the question, “Why do so many lifters resist training in groups in the current age of powerlifting?”   We also cover Jacob’s time working with the South Sudanese Olympic Basketball team in Paris for the Olympics last year. We also share stories of gym ownership (Jacob owns Be Better Barbell with Tom Kallas outside Chicago). You can find him at @jacob.w.ross on Instagram. Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com! Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/ and subscribe for updates about our apparel line at goodcompanyapparel.com https://3sb.co/! Local memberships and international fresh fits! Get early access to our NEXT DROP! Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/ 50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. ____ Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 11 June 2025

Mike is out of town, so Jim brought in one of Third Street Barbell’s most consistent and inspirational members, Josh Hajar. Josh is an emergency department nurse who faced a harrowing fight with non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, and then suffered an injury that set back his recovery and fitness goals. When he arrived at Third Street, he was finally ready to execute a winning game plan for losing weight and getting stronger. Building on the advice he received when he first received his cancer diagnosis to “Be Positive,” Josh sets a strong example in and out of the gym. Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com! Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/ and subscribe for updates about our apparel line at goodcompanyapparel.com https://3sb.co/! Local memberships and international fresh fits! Get early access to our NEXT DROP! Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/ 50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. ____ Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 4 June 2025

Psychedelics in psychotherapy. That’s the theme of this four-part documentary from Netflix. Can psychedelics break damaging thought patterns and allow people to heal from depression and trauma? This doc series would like to prove that they at least hold promise to do that. We cover episodes #1 (LSD) and #3 (MDMA). (Interesting, very recent twist: researchers have altered LSD to make it helpful to the brain but unable to cause psychedelic effects.) Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com! Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/ and subscribe for updates about our apparel line at goodcompanyapparel.com https://3sb.co/! Local memberships and international fresh fits! Get early access to our NEXT DROP! Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/ 50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. ____ Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 28 May 2025

Netflix’s Untold documentary series takes a look at the phenomenon of The Liver King. Purportedly already a multi-millionaire, Brian Johnson launched a muscular social media and YouTube presence as a “primal” influencer who used raw organ meats, including testicles, rather than steroids to build his crazy physique. He amassed a huge following and reaped more revenue for his supplement company, but was he telling the truth about being natty?   Nope.   The documentary spends a bit too much time setting up his performative persona and a bit too little time examining the fallout of his outing as a heavy steroid user (and his apparent previous life of crime). But the bottom line is that the man and this documentary are steeped in ick.   Other reviews we discussed: The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2025/may/15/fake-fitness-influencers-the-secrets-and-lies-behind-the-worlds-most-enviable-physiques Time Magazine: https://time.com/7284988/untold-the-liver-king-true-story-netflix/ Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com! Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/ and subscribe for updates about our apparel line at goodcompanyapparel.com https://3sb.co/! Local memberships and international fresh fits! Get early access to our NEXT DROP! Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/ 50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. ____ Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 21 May 2025

Under pressure from, well, pretty much everyone, it appears the IPF will allow stiff knee sleeves through the end of 2026.   World’s Strongest Man is back in Sacramento this week, just about a mile from our gym. We take a look at the history of WSM and take an online trivia quiz. Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com! Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/ and subscribe for updates about our apparel line at goodcompanyapparel.com https://3sb.co/! Local memberships and international fresh fits! Get early access to our NEXT DROP! Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/ 50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. ____ Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 15 May 2025

We’ve been talking about cults and how they’re covered in the media. Back in 2021, we looked at the HBO documentary series “The Way Down: God, Greed and the Cult of Gwen Shamblin” on a couple of episodes. It is about a crazy, scary religious cult. This week, Mike’s under the weather, and we haven’t had a chance to record, so this seems like a good time to present these episodes again as one. As a refresher, here’s the description of the doc series, “Follows the Remnant Fellowship Church, exploring the fame and power of its leader Gwen Shambling Lara as a diet guru and church leader, and the truth behind her carefully-curated image, detailing the church's controversial practices.” Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com! Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/ and subscribe for updates about our apparel line at goodcompanyapparel.com https://3sb.co/! Local memberships and international fresh fits! Get early access to our NEXT DROP! Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/ 50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. ____ Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 8 May 2025

The founder of the biggest YouTube skateboarding channel is a Scientologist. Has that fact become public, explaining the channel's drop in popularity over the past few years? Was it the money he spent climbing the rungs of this cult (and not on his skaters and staff)? Or was it just the normal life cycle of a YouTube channel? Rather than reviewing a documentary, this time we’re examining the handling of this story through several YouTube explainers and exposes. What do these have in common with real docs? Do we get any closer to understanding what happened with Aaron Kyro and Braille Skateboarding? Videos discussed during this episode: https://youtu.be/uEk_pc0xVYc?si=hdfiZY6W_hF2aMuE https://youtu.be/V-GIyKIlL9g?si=7aOy3qXiK4Vzf55h https://youtu.be/ZF0p1aXqm8M?si=gmCxuRmGNznwSQzW Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com! Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/ and subscribe for updates about our apparel line at goodcompanyapparel.com https://3sb.co/! Local memberships and international fresh fits! Get early access to our NEXT DROP! Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/ 50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. ____ Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 30 April 2025

We’re taking a closer look at a topic that we’ve touched on briefly before: Media covering the effects and inner workings of cults. The HBO documentary Going Clear is one of the most recognizable documentaries about the Church of Scientology. Celebrities like Tom Cruise have deep ties to this cult that was founded by prolific author L. Ron Hubbard.   Some interesting aspects of this belief system are the need to pay huge sums of money to advance to higher levels of the organization and the fact that many aspects are not even explained to members until they have reached specific levels.   For all its focus on mental health, are believers actually involved in activities that support good mental health? Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com! Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/ and subscribe for updates about our apparel line at goodcompanyapparel.com https://3sb.co/! Local memberships and international fresh fits! Get early access to our NEXT DROP! Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/ 50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. ____ Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila.  Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 23 April 2025

A couple of episodes ago, we talked about a dramatic change in leadership at the International Powerlifting Federation. The latest wrinkle is that the federation has recently notified the manufacturers of “stiff” knee sleeves that their products are banned from use in competition – immediately. Is the IPF being fair to manufacturers or its members? What prompted this sudden change?   Mike offers some insights from his past experiences with designing knee sleeves and working to gain IPF approval. What’s the rationale behind a system that only favors companies that pay to play? What’s the future of international competition if numerous companies, especially those that support meets with sponsorship, fail because they have too much money sunk into inventory they can’t sell?   We’ve got more questions than answers, to be honest.   Listener resource: ONIBUKIYA response to the ban on ONI knee sleeves Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com!   Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/ and subscribe for updates about our apparel line at goodcompanyapparel.com https://3sb.co/! Local memberships and international fresh fits! Get early access to our NEXT DROP!   Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/   50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network.   ____   Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 16 April 2025

A stroll back 13 years in time takes us to a very “well-reviewed” nutrition documentary that ultimately only delivers a laundry list of fear appeals, misinformation, and pro-vegan propaganda. Not that there’s anything wrong with being a vegan, but getting there because you’ve been told that every other way of eating is somehow dangerous is kind of a cheap way to do it. Sugar is the poison, but so are artificial sweeteners. High-fructose corn syrup is somehow entirely different than other forms of sugar. Meat will kill you, etc. It’s the greatest hits of food myths (although seed oils hadn’t been vilified yet).   Dean Saddoris  @deansaddoris.ck, or media review homie, hangs with us again.   Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com!   Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/ and subscribe for updates about our apparel line at goodcompanyapparel.com https://3sb.co/! Local memberships and international fresh fits! Get early access to our NEXT DROP!   Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/   50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network.   ____   Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila.  Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 9 April 2025

We take a stab at which jobs AI might eliminate (do you want your drive-through order taken by a bot?). Plus, the long-time IPF president resigned suddenly a few weeks ago. Is there any situation where a quick exit from a top position like that doesn’t mean really bad things have happened?   Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com!   Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/ and subscribe for updates about our apparel line at goodcompanyapparel.com https://3sb.co/! Local memberships and international fresh fits! Get early access to our NEXT DROP!   Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/   50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network.   ____   Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523)   Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 2 April 2025

The 5-part Netflix Documentary Court of Gold chronicles the 2024 Olympic Basketball tournament in Paris. It’s obviously a love letter to the gold medalist US team, but more specifically, Kevin Durrant, Steph Curry, and to a lesser extent, LeBron James. The episodes follow the tournament's progression and highlight a few of the other national teams along the way. The series features several insightful and down-to-earth interviews of players and coaches of the 2024 teams, as well as great teams of the past.   Dean Saddoris  @deansaddoris.ck chops it up with us again.   Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com!   Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/ and subscribe for updates about our apparel line at goodcompanyapparel.com https://3sb.co/! Local memberships and international fresh fits!  Get early access to our NEXT DROP!   Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/   50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network.   ____   Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 26 March 2025

The third sequel to the bodybuilding documentary Generation Iron is all about the natties. It follows a group of competitors during the countdown to the Natural Olympia of 2019. Will natural bodybuilding ever gain the kind of traction that its “enhanced” counterpart does? And are the competitors really drug-free? Several commentators in the film cast doubt on that.   Dean Saddoris  @deansaddoris.ck chops it up with us again.   Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com!   Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/ and subscribe for updates about our apparel line at goodcompanyapparel.com https://3sb.co/! Local memberships and international fresh fits! Get early access to our NEXT DROP!   Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/   50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network.   ____   Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/  Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 19 March 2025

We’re pulling from our backlog of short, unreleased One Good Question episodes to fill this week’s gap in scheduling due to travel. This time, we tackle a listener question that’s pretty philosophical in nature: Would you rather live under the ocean or on the moon. After a bit of detour into stupid moon landing conspiracies, we finally offer up our answers.   Back to regular programming next week!   Dean Saddoris  @deansaddoris.ck chops it up with us again.   Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com!   Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/ and subscribe for updates about our apparel line at goodcompanyapparel.com https://3sb.co/! Local memberships and international fresh fits! Get early access to our NEXT DROP!   Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/   50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network.   ____   Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523)   Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 12 March 2025

The “Superman from Compton” took YouTube in the 20-teens by way of a video called “The Strongest Man You’ve Never Heard Of.” Who was this man who “commanded” his arms to grow and reminded us over and over that it was indeed still our set? This documentary sketches a portrait of a man whose great personal warmth can’t be obscured by his sometimes rough and compromising demeanor. A man who took a difficult, often demeaning upbringing and transformed it into the power to motivate others online in ways few have.   Dean Saddoris  @deansaddoris.ck chops it up with us again.   Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com!   Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/ and subscribe for updates about our apparel line at goodcompanyapparel.com https://3sb.co/! Local memberships and international fresh fits! Get early access to our NEXT DROP!   Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/   50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network.   ____   Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 5 March 2025

This documentary, the first from Generation Iron, covers the runup to the 2012 Mr. Olympia bodybuilding contest. Phil Heath is a repeat winner, but Kai Greene is pushing him hard. A number of other well-known competitors are also hoping to dominate the Olympia stage. Do any of them have a chance against “The Gift?”   Dean Saddoris  @deansaddoris.ck chops it up with us again.   Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com!   Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/ and subscribe for updates about our apparel line at goodcompanyapparel.com https://3sb.co/! Local memberships and international fresh fits! Get early access to our NEXT DROP!   Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/   50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network.   ____   Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 26 February 2025

Have you noticed that powerlifting is experiencing a bit of a dip in popularity? We have. What might be the cause?   We kick around some possibilities. Is the last wave of lifters starting to age out and move on to other hobbies? Is it turmoil among the federations? How do other hobby sports maintain their popularity?   Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com!   Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/ and subscribe for updates about our apparel line at goodcompanyapparel.com https://3sb.co/! Local memberships and international fresh fits! Get early access to our NEXT DROP!   Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/   50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network.   ____   Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Branding by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 19 February 2025

This documentary from Generation Iron recaps the career of 8-time Mr. Olympia, Ronnie Coleman, as he prepares for yet another back surgery. While we don’t gain a lot new information, it’s a nostalgic look at some of the most iconic training footage from his long Olympia run, along with a painful chronical of his current, painful condition and his love of family.   Dean Saddoris  @deansaddoris.ck chops it up with us again.   Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com!   Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/ and subscribe for updates about our apparel line at goodcompanyapparel.com https://3sb.co/! Local memberships and international fresh fits! Get early access to our NEXT DROP!   Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/   50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network.   ____   Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila.  Theme by Aaron Moore. Branding by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 12 February 2025

This documentary from Men’s Health tells us that body dysmorphia is running rampant among teenage boys in America. It follows four teens who take “extreme” measures to try to match the body images they see on social media (sorta). Then, the video takes a turn into a “debate” about supplements for some reason.   This doc is pretty aimless and pointless, but we had fun tearing it apart.   Dean Saddoris  @deansaddoris.ck chops it up with us again.   Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com!   Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/ and subscribe for updates about our apparel line at goodcompanyapparel.com https://3sb.co/! Local memberships and international fresh fits! Get early access to our NEXT DROP!   Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/   50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network.   ____   Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/  Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Branding by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523)   Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 5 February 2025

Bryan Johnson, former head of the firm that owned Venmo (and sold it to Paypal), is obsessed with slowing down his aging process. Is there anything he won’t try toward that end? Dozens of daily vitamins, nearly religious workouts, red laser masks, and even experimental gene splicing are all in play. This Netflix documentary attempts to explain his motivations and the sharp contrast between the man we see now and the person he used to be.   Dean Saddoris  @deansaddoris.ck is back for this one (and uses the word milady).   Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com!   Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/ and subscribe for updates about our apparel line at goodcompanyapparel.com https://3sb.co/! Local memberships and international fresh fits! Get early access to our NEXT DROP!   Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/   50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network.   ____   Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Branding by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 29 January 2025

And we’re back with a fresh 2025 episode!   Mike headed to Florida to coach three streamers to losing 25 lbs each while streaming 24 hours a day from "Weigh Loss Island." Jim went to Canada for some family time, and to NYC for some shows, including a spot in the audience for a Stephen Colbert taping.   Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com!   Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/ and subscribe for updates about our apparel line at goodcompanyapparel.com https://3sb.co/! Local memberships and international fresh fits! Get early access to our NEXT DROP!   Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/   50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network.   ____   Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Branding by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523)   Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 22 January 2025

We’ve still had some holiday and non-holiday travel going on, so we’re dipping into the vault again for a One Good Question episode to fill the gap.   FRESH 2025 EPISODE NEXT WEEK.   A listener asked, “If you could start a business with zero risk, what would it be?” We had to make a call about whether this meant that you’d automatically succeed (boring) or it was with someone else’s money, and there would be no financial impact to you if it failed (kind of exciting – who doesn’t love OPM?).   Personal service robots? High-end streetwear? Laundromats? Further, what kinds of businesses have the best (and worst) success rates?   Dean Saddoris  @deansaddoris.ck is back for this one (and uses the word milady).     Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com!   Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/ and subscribe for updates about our apparel line at goodcompanyapparel.com https://3sb.co/! Local memberships and international fresh fits! Get early access to our NEXT DROP!   Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/   50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network.   ____   Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila.  Theme by Aaron Moore. Branding by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 15 January 2025

We’ve got some holiday and non-holiday travel going on, so we’re dipping into the vault for a couple of One Good Question episodes to fill the gap.   A lot of people are joining gyms at this time of year. Some for the first time. Gyms can make you feel isolated…or part of a community. How do you approach other gym members to make new friends or become part of a community? Are some types of gyms better for this than others?   Should you ever use the term “milady” in the gym?   Dean Saddoris  @deansaddoris.ck is back for this one (and uses the word milady).     Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com!   Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/ and subscribe for updates about our apparel line at goodcompanyapparel.com https://3sb.co/! Local memberships and international fresh fits! Get early access to our NEXT DROP!   Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/   50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network.   ____   Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Branding by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 8 January 2025

We’ve got some holiday and non-holiday travel going on, so we’re dipping into the vault for a couple of One Good Question episodes to fill the gap.   This episode features one of our gym members who is a practicing vegan, Nick Squires, sharing some more about how he transitioned from being an ardent meat eater to being a vegan. Since this is the time of year that some people make radical diet changes, it seemed like a good idea to drop this one in the feed.   Also, are GMOs bad? (No)   You can find Nick on Instagram (@meatmcsorley). Drop him a follow. He’s totally worth it.     Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com!   Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/ and subscribe for updates about our apparel line at goodcompanyapparel.com https://3sb.co/! Local memberships and international fresh fits! Get early access to our NEXT DROP!   Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/   50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network.   ____   Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd) https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Branding by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 8 January 2025

It’s a new year, and it’s time once again to examine at least one publication’s ideas for fitness trends in the coming year. This time, we tapped into a more serious -- and less pop culture – source: the American Council on Exercise. Let us know on our Discord or in YouTube comments if you agree or disagree with the list and/or our takes on it.   Dean Saddoris  @deansaddoris.ck is back for this one.   Listener resources: ACE’s list: https://www.acefitness.org/resources/pros/expert-articles/8776/10-fitness-trends-to-look-forward-to-in-2025/ Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com!   Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/ and subscribe for updates about our apparel line at goodcompanyapparel.com https://3sb.co/! Local memberships and international fresh fits! Get early access to our NEXT DROP!   Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/ 50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523).   Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 1 January 2025

Is this the most Christmas movie of our little film festival? Probably. Is it even better that we’re dropping it on Christmas Day? For sure!   Mel Gibson and Danny Glover starred in one of the first really great buddy cop movies. Will they catch the bad guys before Gibson offs himself? Did Rorion Gracie choreograph one of the craziest fight scenes ever?   Dean Saddoris @deansaddoris.ck is back for this one.   Do you have a question for one of our Friday “One Good Question” episodes? Share it with us on social media using the hashtag #onegoodquestion.   Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com!   Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/ and subscribe for updates about our apparel line at goodcompanyapparel.com https://3sb.co/! Local memberships and international fresh fits! Get early access to our NEXT DROP!   Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/ 50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network.  Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523).  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 25 December 2024

Well, we had some confusion about the movie we were planning to cover on that day, a guest who couldn’t make it, and an acute shortage of time. So, we punted with a quick discussion about the state of streaming services, a crazy old music video, and thoughts on handling public accusations.   Next week, Lethal Weapon (and a bit of Rocky IV). Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com!   Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/ and subscribe for updates about our apparel line at goodcompanyapparel.com https://3sb.co/! Local memberships and international fresh fits! Get early access to our NEXT DROP!   Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/   50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523).  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 18 December 2024

There’s a Christmas in the first Harry Potter? Yes! Three of the eight films include a bit of Christmas. This one seems to show Harry’s first Christmas gifts ever. There are a ton of other firsts as well.   This film set the tone for the seven films that followed and wove itself into kids' consciousness everywhere. If Harry is truly a special kid, why does nobody listen to him?   Dean Saddoris  @deansaddoris.ck joins us again for this one.   Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com!   Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/ and subscribe for updates about our apparel line at goodcompanyapparel.com https://3sb.co/! Local memberships and international fresh fits! Get early access to our NEXT DROP!   Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/ 50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523).  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 11 December 2024

So, whether or not it’s a Christmas movie, Die Hard definitely happens at Christmas. Is it the original action-adventure hostage film? We can’t think of an earlier one. Beyond that, Bruce Willis would never have become a movie star without it. Why is it that the person who sees the situation the most clearly is the one no one wants to listen to?   Dean Saddoris  @deansaddoris.ck joins us again for this one. Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com!   Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/ and subscribe for updates about our apparel line at goodcompanyapparel.com https://3sb.co/! Local memberships and international fresh fits! Get early access to our NEXT DROP!   Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/ 50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/  Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523).  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 4 December 2024

Continuing our festival of films set at Christmas, but not about Christmas, we take a critical look at Iron Man 3. Is this the best Iron Man flick – even though Tony Stark doesn’t spend much time in the suit? How hot is Pepper when she’s hardly wearing anything?   Dean Saddoris  @deansaddoris.ck joins us again for this one.   Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com!   Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/ and subscribe for updates about our apparel line at goodcompanyapparel.com https://3sb.co/! Local memberships and international fresh fits! Get early access to our NEXT DROP!   Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/ 50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523).   Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Transcribed - Published: 27 November 2024