50% Facts with Silent Mike & Jim McD - podcast cover

50% Facts with Silent Mike & Jim McD

Jim McDonaldwww.50percentfacts.com
Mike "Silent Mike" Farr and Jim McDonald are entrepreneurs (lifestyle apparel company and a barbell gym) and veteran podcasters. In every episode, they try to answer a single question. Any question is fair game, but most involve health, fitness, nutrition, mental health, culture…even sex. They examine common misconceptions and then try to get to the correct answer -- often with the help of subject matter experts. They walk away with a better sense of the facts…and so do you. Full episodes every Wednesday. Shorter episodes every Friday, dedicated to answering a question from listeners.

Business inquiries: Jim@thejimmcd.com

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Episodes

Should PhDs call themselves “Doctor” when marketing themselves in fitness?

In some states, only specific medical professionals (physicians and surgeons) can use the title “Doctor.” California law is particularly strict about this. Are potential clients confused when other professionals with doctorate degrees use the title, thinking they are hiring (or following) a medical practitioner? We also break down our weekend at Barbell Brigade’s USAPL meet, talk about Bronny James’ heart attack, and learn why we can’t have master bedrooms anymore. ___ Have a question for one of...

Jul 26, 202345 minEp. 331

Who will be the next great athlete who also succeeds in business, media, etc.? | One Good Question

This week’s question from our Discord: Chili72 asked, “ Do you ever think there will be another athlete that rivals Shaq in terms of dominating their sport, then continuing to branch out across different areas on at a high level Examples: DJ Diesel, Rap Albums, Broadcasting, Acting, his business & charities, etc.” Avi Lieu join us for this one. She’s on Instagram at @avi.lieu . ___ Have a question for one of our Friday “One Good Question” episodes? Hit us up on social media and use the hasht...

Jul 21, 202315 minEp. 330

“Stone Cold” Steve Austin Documentary: A 50% Facts review

Just a couple of times we have been able to watch a documentary about someone we’ve met in person and podcasted with. This time it’s Stone Cold Steve Austin. We checked out the Biography Channel documentary on his life and career, which became free on YouTube this week. Here is the description: Directed by Jake Rogal and Executive Produced by Jason Hehir ("The Last Dance," "Andre The Giant"), this film traces the story of the man who became WWE's biggest star in the 90s. "Stone Cold" Steve Austi...

Jul 19, 20231 hrEp. 329

How to calculate a calorie deficit?

This week’s question from our Discord: Fluffy999 asked: “How should I calculate a caloric deficit? Been struggling to find the perfect amount of calories without starving myself.” Avi Lieu join us for this one. She’s on Instagram at @avi.lieu . ___ Have a question for one of our Friday “One Good Question” episodes? Hit us up on social media and use the hashtag #onegoodquestion. Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com! Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com...

Jul 14, 202312 minEp. 328

Threads vs. Twitter, Zuck vs. Musk, over-the-counter tests vs. lab tests?

Suddenly we’ve got a new social media platform trying to take down Twitter. Does Threads (spun off of Instagram) have a real chance at making Elon’s bird app irrelevant? Is this a preview of the rumored Zuckerberg vs Musk match in the octagon? Probably more importantly, are some social media platforms better for fitness content (and influence) than others? Also, during the pandemic, many people got comfortable with performing health tests (or just specimen collection) at home. With all the at-ho...

Jul 12, 202359 minEp. 327

How many glizzies? | Topic Thunder rewind

In honor of the Fourth of July holiday week – and to make up for the fact that the traditional hot dog eating contest didn’t happen this year – we’re bringing back a classic Topic Thunder episode. We tackle the question, “How many glizzies could you eat in 48 hours?” Original episode notes: Are big bulks or big cuts worth it? Will you get what you want out of them or do they (almost) always go bad? And if you’re on a bulk, how many glizzies can you eat in 48 hours? We throw out some opinions on ...

Jul 07, 202317 minEp. 326

Muscles and Mayhem – Unauthorized American Gladiators documentary series : A 50% Facts review

In this episode, we review Netflix's new docu-series Muscles and Mayhem, which tells the story of the rise and fall of the iconic American Gladiators. We discuss the show's meteoric success, its behind-the-scenes drama, and its eventual downfall. · What was the appeal of American Gladiators? How did the show become so popular? What was it like to be an American Gladiator? What were some of the behind-the-scenes dramas? Why did the show eventually end? Dean Saddoris joined us for this one. You ca...

Jul 05, 20231 hr 1 minEp. 325

Fake fast food meat?

This week’s One Good Question actually comes from some comments on Mike’s Instagram. Does a certain fast food restaurant use meat that’s not really meat? And is the occasional fast food meat not that big a deal? Avi Lieu joins us for this one. You can find her on Instagram @avi.lieu . ____ Have a question for one of our Friday “One Good Question” episodes? Hit us up on social media and use the hashtag #onegoodquestion. Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com! Check out our gym (Third...

Jun 30, 202319 minEp. 324

“Arnold” docuseries: A 50% Facts Review

Love him or hate him, Arnold Schwarzenegger has been a phenomenon in bodybuilding, movies, and even politics. A new three-part Netflix documentary series explores his triumphs and challenges through multiple decades and careers. This series plays somewhat like a sequel to the classic “Pumping Iron.” As we ask every time we tackle one of these series, “Do we learn things we didn’t know and actually get to know the subject any better?” Dean Saddoris joined us for this one. You can find Dean on IG ...

Jun 28, 20231 hr 16 minEp. 232

How do you change your workouts when you’re cutting?

This week’s question from our Discord: Yasssuke Da GOD asks: “I am currently contemplating switching my workout routine since I am trying to cut. And I am realizing I won’t be able to increase my numbers while also trying to increase activities and cardio. So I am considering putting in some bodybuilding splits while still doing some powerlifting and oly movements. Is it me or will this increase my activities to burn more calories than my powerlifting splits? Adding reps of 10-14 vs the old 5 re...

Jun 24, 202311 minEp. 322

Is responding to negative social media comments worth it?

We take a look at a few recent comments we’ve seen on social media – to our own stuff and that of others – and contemplate when it’s worth it even to respond. Even just to correct the record. What motivates people to become keyboard warriors? A few related topics: Have Joe Rogan and Elon Musk jumped the shark? Why are Joe’s hands so big? Which Flash is in the Flash movie and why are there so many of them? Avi Lieu join us for this one. You can find her on Instagram @avi.lieu . ____ Have a questi...

Jun 21, 202349 minEp. 321

How do you keep a podcast (or any long-term project) going?

This week’s question from our Discord: Keith Honeycutt ( @keithhoneycutt73 ) asked… "I recently started a podcast with some of my buddies. We are currently 4 episodes in and I think it’s going well. Any advice to keeping a podcast running for a long time or general podcasting tips?" We might have some insight on this one. Avi Lieu join us for this one. You can find her on Instagram @avi.lieu . ____ Have a question for one of our Friday “One Good Question” episodes? Hit us up on social media and ...

Jun 16, 202317 minEp. 320

Building a strength sports media empire with David Thomas Tao of Barbend.com

In this episode of the 50% Facts podcast, we sit down with David Thomas Tao, co-founder, former CEO, and now head of brand for Barbend.com. Barbend is a leading website for strength training and fitness that was recently acquired by Pillar4 Media. In this interview, Tao discusses his journey to becoming the CEO of Barbend, his thoughts on the future of fitness media, and how Barbend has expanded coverage since its founding to serve the growing market. Tao talks about the challenges of starting a...

Jun 14, 20231 hr 20 minEp. 319

MacGregor Forever: A 50% Facts review

A day later than normal, but we're back. In this episode of 50% Facts, we review the Netflix documentary series "MacGregor Forever" about UFC fighter Conor McGregor. The series chronicles McGregor's rise to fame and fortune, as well as his subsequent fall from grace. We discuss McGregor's strengths and weaknesses as a fighter, as well as his personal life and controversies. We also offer our thoughts on the future of McGregor's career. Topics Discussed: McGregor's rise to fame and fortune His su...

Jun 09, 20231 hr 8 minEp. 309

Are you a douchebag? Take the quiz with us

Avi Lieu joins us to take an online quiz to determine whether any of us are actually douchebags. All of us can be douchebags once in a while. Sometimes accidentally. Sometimes on purpose. But what douchebag behavior makes you a full-time douchebag? You can find Avi on Instagram @avi.lieu . ____ Have a question for one of our Friday “One Good Question” episodes? Hit us up on social media and use the hashtag #onegoodquestion. Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com! Check out our gym (...

May 31, 202353 minEp. 317

Fitness "stigmas" that still linger | One Good Question

This week’s question from our Discord (goodcompanydiscord.com): Thedvspanda asked, “ What fitness stigma does society need to get over?” We hit on some consistent ones. If you have any we missed, feel free to post them on our Discord. One Good Question is taking next week off. It will return in June. ____ Have a question for one of our Friday “One Good Question” episodes? Hit us up on social media and use the hashtag #onegoodquestion. Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com! Check ou...

May 26, 202310 minEp. 316

Two thirds of what "fitfluencers" say is wrong

A new study by BMC Public Health analyzing the posts of fitness influencers shows that about two-thirds of what they post on social media is wrong…and may be doing more harm than good. Should there be some kind of vetting performed on the information they provide, should they be banned for posting self-serving misinformation, or is this just a “buyer beware” situation? We chat about these questions and offer a critical piece of advice for evaluating any social media post. Dean Saddoris joined us...

May 24, 202347 minEp. 315

Go-to meals and snacks for cutting and bulking?

Two similar questions from our Discord: Erok_ladio asked, “What is your go to meal for cutting/bulking?” linttastic asked, “Go-to snacks during a cut/bulk?” Some things are obvious. Some are really not. ____ Have a question for one of our Friday “One Good Question” episodes? Hit us up on social media and use 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 ...

May 19, 202313 minEp. 314

“Air” review: Nike’s historic pursuit of Michael Jordan

Amazon Studios offers up an all-star telling of how a young Michael Jordan (and his mom) were convinced to sign a game-changing deal that created maybe the most iconic footwear in sports history. Dean Saddoris joined us for this one. You can find Dean on IG @deansaddoris.ck and at caffeineandkilos.com Listener resources: More about Air on IMDB. ____ Have a question for one of our Friday “One Good Question” episodes? Hit us up on social media and use the hashtag #onegoodquestion. If your question...

May 17, 20231 hr 6 minEp. 313

Is “built different” a thing? | One Good Question

This week’s question from our Discord (goodcompanydiscord.com): BennyG asked: How hard is it to see the fitness industry now, compared to when you, Bart, Alan and Omar were creating vids and smashing weights? I feel like if I were, you watched the videos I see today of everyone being "built different" and all the various "I'm better than you captions" it would be hard to stay quiet. Meanwhile all of you crush much heavier weights and are super humble about it sharing successes and lessons. How m...

May 12, 202313 minEp. 312

Is there a legit case against sumo?

With the IPF now discussing banning sumo deadlifts, we try to come up with legitimate reasons (other than social media scrubs not liking them) why they shouldn’t be allowed in competition? Will this subject ever die? We start off talking about Mike’s recent trip to Alphaland and Corrupted Strength. Avi Lieu joins us for this one. You can find Avi on Instagram @avi.lieu . ____ Have a question for one of our Friday “One Good Question” episodes? Hit us up on social media and use the hashtag #onegoo...

May 10, 202345 minEp. 311

Whitechapel bassist Gabe Crisp

Due to a canceled flight and prep for an apparel drop, we’ve only got one episode this week…but it’s a fun one. Our longtime buddy, Gabe Crisp, was in town for a gig and was gracious enough to join us. We talked about whether metal vocalists really need to scream, the relationship between powerlifting and angry music, when touring musicians find time to lift, his love for discgolf, and the rules and ethics of mosh pits. You can find the deathcore band Whitechapel at whitechapelband.com . Gabe is...

May 05, 20231 hrEp. 310

What’s your best creative process? | One Good Question

From our Discord: DKQuinoa asked, “What is your creative process? (Leaving this open-ended and open to interpretation on purpose).” ____ Have a question for one of our Friday “One Good Question” episodes? Hit us up on social media and use the hashtag #onegoodquestion. If your question is picked, you’ll get something special from us! Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com! Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/ and subsc...

Apr 28, 202318 minEp. 309

Things we want to believe…but maybe aren’t true?

UFOs? Aliens? Training plans that always work…for anyone? Calorie theory? We discuss the limitations of evidence and the point that blind faith (and wishful thinking) kick in. ____ Have a question for one of our Friday “One Good Question” episodes? Hit us up on social media and use the hashtag #onegoodquestion. If your question is picked, you’ll get something special from us! Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com! Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com h...

Apr 26, 202342 minEp. 308

Who in the fitness world would we like to meet? | One good question

Time for another question from our Discord. Keith Honeycutt asks “(Who is) someone in the fitness industry you still want to meet in person?” After decades (combined) of time in the industry, who haven’t we met that we’d still like to meet? It’s a pretty short list… ____ Have a question for one of our Friday “One Good Question” episodes? Hit us up on social media and use the hashtag #onegoodquestion. If your question is picked, you’ll get something special from us! Join our Discord for free at g...

Apr 22, 202313 minEp. 307

Stompin’ at the NBA playoffs

Reunited for a brand-new episode after a month of travel, we got to be in the house for Kings/Warriors Game 2 and see Draymond Green stomp on the chest of the King’s Domantas Sabonis. We talk about how sports can build community, and how what you wear can shape how you feel about yourself. ____ Have a question for one of our Friday “One Good Question” episodes? Hit us up on social media and use the hashtag #onegoodquestion. If your question is picked, you’ll get something special from us! Join o...

Apr 19, 202347 minEp. 306

What’s the greatest gift powerlifting has given you? | Topic Thunder

Deep thought question: What’s the greatest gift has powerlifting given you? Strength? Friends? Purpose? Goals? Confidence? The crew weighs in with some heartfelt responses. Joe Stanek (@joe_gameday) sat in as guest host on this one, along with Mike, Nico (@nicoflores83kg), and Elexa (@nanoo31). ____ Have a question for one of our Friday “One Good Question” episodes? Hit us up on social media and use the hashtag #onegoodquestion. Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com! Check out our ...

Apr 14, 20239 minEp. 305

Rewind: Dr. Andy Galpin on Cold Plunges

We’re still on a production break for a couple of weeks or so due to a trip out of the country, so we’re revisiting some valuable episodes from the beginning (and original format) of the show. We know that heat and cold shock proteins form in the body in reaction to changes in temperature, but what do they do and should we be trying hard to get them? • How much do you need to change your body temperature to get a reaction? • What, if anything, are cryo- chambers good for? • Is it enough to just ...

Apr 12, 202339 minEp. 304

Lift to the same standard or don’t compare your lifts? | Topic Thunder

Joe pitched this one from one of his followers: You can lift anyway you want, but you can’t compare your lifts to anyone else’s if they are not to the same standard. Can you really compare lifts across federations or different equipment standards? Are squats with wraps comparable to squats with sleeves? Are deadlift bars and stiff bars THAT different in terms of weight lifted? Joe Stanek (@joe_gameday) sat in as guest host on this one, along with Mike, Nico (@nicoflores83kg), and Elexa (@nanoo31...

Apr 07, 20238 minEp. 303

Rewind: @Trippadvice on where to meet girls

We’re still on a production break for a couple of weeks or so due to a trip out of the country, so we’re revisiting some valuable episodes from the beginning (and original format) of the show. (Plus, you get to hear us to an ad read we didn’t have time to cut out.) Here’s the original description of this episode: Friends, dates, relationships…all pretty essential to most of us, right? But a lot of us suck at finding good places to meet potential partners.We asked Tripp Kramer to help us help you...

Apr 04, 202346 minEp. 302
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