Podcast
Curious Conversations
Hosted by Alex Connor · EN
Curious Conversations is a space for real, unscripted dialogue where ideas are explored, not forced.
Evolving from the Roar Knowledge podcast, this is less about talking at you… and more about thinking with you.
When you release the need to be right, you don’t become wrong... you become curious.
From performance, mindset, and health to business, culture, and life. Just conversations worth listening to.
For more, follow along on Instagram @_alexconnor
12episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
A New Era... Curious Conversations
4w ago00:04:50Tap to summarizeLets begin a new chapter... Curiously.
Transcribe →#135 The Hard Truth About Losing Fat & Building Muscle In Todays Society - Emily King
Mar 6, 202501:00:33Tap to summarizeEmily King is an online fitness coach, IFBB Pro Athlete & Mum.In this over saturated and ever growing fitness world, losing fat and building muscle whilst managing your life, job, relationships and kids seems to be getting ever more difficult as we become more time poor and distracted & misinformed... Emily and their industry leading coaches help busy people get results through sustainable, flexible and evidence based methods!Expect to learn, how you can navigate a fitter lifestyle as a parent by making small realistic changes, some of the biggest myths about the losing fat, a simplified approach to what it really takes to getting into shape, where people go wrong when thinking about using performance enhancing drugs and much more... Links: King Bodies Website: https://kingbodies.com/Emily's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emily_kingbodies/_ Get in touch here in the comments below or visit our website here: https://www.fearlesstrainingunited.com
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#134 Tempo - Training Fundamentals Series
Jan 26, 202500:18:21Tap to summarizeTEMPO: THE BREAKDOWN Welcome to the final piece of the training puzzle: Tempo. As the least critical factor in your training program, it’s also one of the most misunderstood. Hopefully, by now, you’ve been applying the foundational principles we’ve covered effectively, and if so, I’d love to hear about your progress—the entire FTU team would! Let’s dive into tempo. Although it’s not a top priority for most trainees, it often gets blown out of proportion and overly complicated. Like "rest time," it’s an element many see as highly complex, often due to myths perpetuated by social media, underqualified trainers, misled athletes, and even some corrupt organizations. Today, we’re cutting through the noise with facts so you can maximize your approach to tempo without overthinking. TIME UNDER TENSION When it comes to lifting tempo, many people—especially bodybuilders—claim that greater time under tension (TUT) or slowing down reps (often referred to as “negative training”) will result in more muscle activation, greater damage, and ultimately, more growth. If this theory were true, consider this: the pull of gravity constantly exerts tension on us, yet we don’t grow muscle simply by existing. The missing piece in the “more TUT equals more growth” equation is force—specifically, the load you’re resisting during training. When you slow down your lifting speed excessively to increase TUT, two things happen: You sacrifice load. You won’t be able to lift as heavy, which reduces the overall stimulus on the muscle. You lose effective reps. Effective reps—those performed near failure—are essential for progression. If TUT were the only factor needed for muscle growth, we could all build impressive physiques simply by walking around with ankle and wrist weights or curling pencils all day. But common sense (and science) tells us this isn’t how it works. The takeaway? Focus on what actually drives progress: the balance of tension, load, and effective reps. CONSIDERATIONS Just as with rest time, the simple answer to tempo is this: lift weights. However, to provide a more precise recommendation: Control the weight. Proper form is critical for muscle activation, progressive overload, and injury prevention. Focus on the eccentric phase. Control the negative (lengthening) phase of the movement to ensure that gravity isn’t doing the work for you. Your muscles should be engaged throughout. Aim for pristine form. Lift with the correct tempo for your allocated rep range, recruit the targeted muscles effectively, and progress the load when ready. By prioritizing control, form, and progression, you’ll handle tempo effectively and see consistent results in and out of the weight room. Let go of the over-complication, focus on what matters, and train with intention.Coaching Enquires: https://calendly.com/fearlesstraining/30min?month=2024-10
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#133 Rest Periods - Training Fundamentals Series
Dec 12, 202400:15:02Tap to summarizeREST: THE BREAKDOWN How much rest is best? In this module, we’ll tackle the ever-debated topic of rest periods and uncover what’s truly optimal for maximum gains in size and strength. Let’s dive in. The Myth of Short Rest Periods For years, weightlifting legends, fitness media, and self-proclaimed gurus have promoted the idea that short rest periods, along with chasing the biggest “pump” possible, are the keys to hypertrophy (muscle growth). While the pump feels amazing, let’s clear this up: the pump alone won’t grow big, strong muscles. If this were true, we could simply string together endless bodyweight supersets, achieve a massive pump, and end up shredded and jacked. But as we all know—or should know—this doesn’t work. Rest & Fatigue: A Logical Look From a practical perspective, shorter rest periods mean you’ll fatigue faster, leading to fewer reps and lower overall volume. Since total volume (sets x reps x load) is a major driver of hypertrophy, skimping on rest can hold you back. From a scientific standpoint, research consistently shows that longer rest periods—typically 3 to 5 minutes—are superior for building muscle and strength. Why? They allow better recovery between sets, enabling you to lift heavier, complete more reps, and accumulate higher total volume over time. Finding the Right Rest Period So, how much rest is too much? And what’s too little? It depends on: The type of exercise (compound vs. isolation). The load you’re using (heavier weights often require longer recovery). For example: Big lifts (e.g., squats, deadlifts): Rest 3–5 minutes for full recovery. Compound movements (e.g., bench press, pull-ups): Rest around 2–3 minutes. Isolation exercises (e.g., curls, lateral raises): Shorter rest periods of 1.5–2 minutes can work well. Key Considerations Keep it simple: rest until you’re ready to perform at your best for the next set. There’s no need to obsess over losing the pump or worry that chatting with a friend for an extra minute will ruin your gains. General Guidelines: Smaller muscle groups: 1.5–2 minutes. Larger compound lifts: 2.5–3 minutes. Full-body movements: up to 5 minutes. Conclusion Train hard, but train smarter. Prioritise recovery between sets to maximise your performance and results. Rest isn’t wasted time—it’s the foundation for sustainable progress. Coaching Enquires: https://calendly.com/fearlesstraining/30min?month=2024-10
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#132 Exercise Selection - Training Fundamental Series
Nov 14, 202400:20:48Tap to summarizeOverview:Choosing the right exercises is essential, but there’s no single movement that will instantly transform your physique. Instead, consistent, progressive training with the right exercises can build a strong, impressive body. Strength Focus:There’s a close link between strength and muscle size, making compound movements (e.g., squats, bench press, deadlifts) critical for strength goals. These exercises allow for greater volume over time and are foundational for developing muscle mass, as seen in powerlifters and strongmen. Hypertrophy (Muscle Growth):While isolation movements (e.g., triceps extensions, curls) have their place, they shouldn’t overshadow compound lifts that engage multiple muscle groups. Effective hypertrophy training relies on a balance between heavy, compound movements and targeted accessory work. Volume Distribution: 50-75% Compound Lifts: Key movements like squats, bench press, and deadlifts should make up the majority of your workout. 25-50% Accessory Lifts: Supplement with isolation exercises like curls and leg extensions. Structure: Aim for 1-2 compound and 1-3 isolation exercises per muscle group for balanced growth. Key Factors in Exercise Selection: Specificity: Focus on specific movements to build strength for your sport or goals. Avoid changing programs too often, as consistency is crucial for progression. Progression & Balance: Adjust volume and focus on lagging muscle groups to ensure symmetry and improve performance. Biomechanics: Individual structural differences matter. If certain exercises don’t feel right, consider alternatives that better suit your build (e.g., high-bar vs. low-bar squats). A skilled coach can help identify suitable modifications. Conclusion:Prioritize simplicity and quality in your training. Stick to foundational, goal-aligned exercises, train smart, and avoid overcomplicating. This approach will lead to steady progress and a well-rounded physique. Coaching: https://calendly.com/fearlesstraining/30min?month=2024-10
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#131 Natty To Enhanced - Episode 2
Oct 20, 202400:26:28Tap to summarizeWelcome back to the second episode of my "Natty to Enhanced" series, where I document my transition from being a natural athlete to an enhanced one. In this vlog, I dive into the key changes I've noticed so far, covering everything from dosage adjustments and blood work to common misconceptions around going enhanced. I also share some crucial recommendations and considerations I've learned along the way. Whether you're thinking of making the switch or just curious, this episode is packed with valuable insights from my personal journey. Make sure to watch and drop any questions in the comments! iMedical: https://imedical.com.au/order/blood-tests/sport-hormone-private-blood-tests Optimal Health: https://optimalhealthclinic.com.au Coaching: https://calendly.com/fearlesstraining/30min?month=2024-10
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#130 Natural To Enhanced (The Starting Point)
Sep 24, 202400:13:14Tap to summarizeIn this video I talk about the start of my journey going from Natural lifting to Enhanced and why I decided to go this route after so many years of training without any assistance. Additionally I share my protocols, what Ive learned so far, and some important things to consider amongst many misconceptions about PED's. I hope that it sheds some light and transparency on the topic to better help you understand and inform your thoughts and decisions. Stay tuned for more as my progress develops. Coaching Enquires: https://calendly.com/fearlesstraining/30min More: » FREE Dream Body Mini Course: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeYnIOEMcTAaeXnv4BbanKsXfRe6X7mOcXHEGjKwLZPNPEIcQ/viewform » International Protein Supplements 20% Off: https://www.stnnutrition.com/discount/FEARLESSTRAINING20?redirect=%2Fcollections%2Finternational-protein » Instagram: https://instagram.com/Fearless_Training_
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FTRK #129 - Break Through Your Gym Plateau: Motivation & Consistency Tips to Transform Your Fitness Journey!
Apr 19, 202400:41:56Tap to summarizeStuck in a workout rut? Struggling to find motivation? You're not alone! In today's video, we dive deep into overcoming gym plateaus, reigniting your motivation, and building a rock-solid routine to keep you consistent. Plus, we'll share essential tips on how to prioritise yourself for ultimate success! Don’t miss out on transforming your fitness journey - WATCH NOW and learn how to break free from those plateaus, stay motivated, and consistently put your well-being first! 👉 Smash that LIKE button, SUBSCRIBE for more empowering content, and TURN ON notifications to stay updated! Fearless Training ROAR Knowledge Podcast Episode #129 🎙️📺🦁 More: » https://linktr.ee/fearlesstrainingunited » Instagram:https://instagram.com/Fearless_Training_ #FitnessMotivation #BreakPlateaus #ConsistentFitness #SelfPrioritization
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#128 - BODYBUILDING SEASON WRAP UP 2023
Jan 5, 202400:35:07Tap to summarize#128 - My Bodybuilding Season B 2023 WRAP UP Online Coaching - Custom TRAINING & NUTRITION Programs: https://www.fearlesstrainingunited.com/ VIP COACHING: https://alexconnor.com.au/apply/ Coaching/Business Inquiries: alex@fearlesstraining.org https://alexconnor.com.au/ Subscribe & Follow along for more: » Subscribe: https://bit.ly/FearlessChannel » Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/227661021434383 » Instagram: https://instagram.com/Fearless_Training_ » ROAR Podcast: https://bit.ly/FTRoar
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#127 - PROGRESSION - SOLO PODCAST
Jul 24, 202300:22:00Tap to summarize#127 - PROGRESSION - SOLO PODCAST PROGRESSION: THE BREAKDOWN There are many forms when it comes to progression but the fact is that every single person focuses on progress via increasing weight on the bar. Now vitally to progress we must increase overall volume or total volume, over time to make the all important strength and size gains. However that is not always by adding weight to the bar. If this were the case we would all be lifting enormous numbers like deadlifting thousands of kg and curling hundreds. Clearly then, as you may have found out; its not possible to add weight to your exercises each week especially when your out of the beginner stages of lifting. We must have a smarter approach and train more intelligently to avoid injury and keep progressing. To do this, we must recognise progression for its entirety. It comes in many forms but without delving into every type and making this too long winded, these are the main key elements that fundamentally make up successful progressions. WEIGHT Yes we may as well start with the most obvious increasing weight over time on the bar indeed increases over all volume. REPS More reps of course is another great way of adding volume as the more reps you do the more volume you accumulate SETS Adding sets to your regime is another sure-fire way to increase total volume lifted especially when you can’t do more reps with a given weight/load. FORM Now the less obvious progressions most do not recognise as progression, increased quality in form from last week even with the same weight is progress as you are increasing skill acquisition. REST As time goes the ability to have less rest in between sets and still lift the same load if not more with as good form is progress in fitness of all your major energy systems. RECOVERY Managing recovery and increased recovery over time after each session and training block is a sign of progress as you now have the ability to recover from more volume, which is a progression in neuromuscular adaptations. THE BOTTOM LINE These elements are all forms of progression in their own right and should not be overlooked. When you can’t progress in weight it doesn’t mean you didn’t progress. If you are dedicated enough there will come a time when you reach an advanced level where you won’t always be able to add weight to the bar as frequently as you do now.At the end of the day your focus to making progress is via increasing total volume overtime. This is a concept I wish I understood properly when I first started training. Online Coaching - Custom TRAINING & NUTRITION Programs: https://www.fearlesstrainingunited.com/ VIP COACHING: https://alexconnor.com.au/apply/ Coaching/Business Inquiries: alex@fearlesstraining.org https://alexconnor.com.au/ Subscribe & Follow along for more: » Subscribe: https://bit.ly/FearlessChannel » Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/227661021434383 » Instagram: https://instagram.com/Fearless_Training_ » ROAR Podcast: https://bit.ly/FTRoar
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