Ep. 72 - Mike Sell: Eating Only Chik-Fil-A for 16 Weeks, Losing 40 lbs, and Winning a Bodybuilding Competition

Join us as we sit down with Mike Sell, co-owner of Midwest Strength Performance Gym in Chicago, for an inspiring exploration into the unconventional approaches to fitness and nutrition. Mike astounds with his account of eating exclusively at Chick-fil-A for 16 weeks while on his way to winning a bodybuilding competition and dropping an incredible 40 pounds. Beyond this unique dietary experiment, he shares his transition from a potential career in medicine to gym ownership, with a strong emphasis on prevention over treatment, and the power of understanding macronutrients for achieving peak physical condition.

We cover the nitty-gritty of bodybuilding competition prep, with a spotlight on the critical details that often go unnoticed, such as tanning and posing. Mike also opens up about his love for competitive eating and how it plays into his life as a fitness enthusiast. From tackling a 12-pound lasagna challenge to navigating the intricate balance of post-show indulgence and muscle gain, Mike's stories are a testament to his dedication and scientific approach to bodybuilding and nutrition.

Lastly, we tackle some broader topics within the fitness industry, including the influence of social media on public perception and the complexities surrounding dietary components like MSG and seed oils. His thoughtful insights and lively tales make for an engaging listen that fitness fans and foodies alike won't want to miss. So, whether you're curious about the synergy between fast food and fitness or the thrill of food challenges, be sure to tune in and follow Mike's ongoing journey on Instagram at MSP Gym and Mikeyswell.

https://www.instagram.com/mikeyswell/

https://www.instagram.com/mspgym/

(0:00:09) - Eating Chick-Fil-a for Bodybuilding Success

(0:13:05) - Start Gym With Unique Nutrition Experiment

(0:19:45) - Bodybuilding Show Prep on Fast Food Diet

(0:33:18) - Bodybuilding Competitions and Post-Show Eating

(0:40:40) - Competitive Eating and Food Challenges

(0:44:55) - Nutrition, Inflammation, and Muscle Gain

(0:56:15) - Influencers, Semiglutides, and Food Challenges

Bodybuilding, Chick-fil-A, Fitness, Nutrition, Fast Food, Gym, Competition Prep, Macronutrients, Social Media Influencers, Semiglutides, Food Challenges, Muscle Gain, Inflammation, Health, Competitive Eating, Midwest Strength Performance, Mike Sell, Scientific Approach, Personalized Training, Western Periodization, Community-Driven Environment, Division I Athletes, Grandparents, Caloric Intake, Health Markers, Sodium, MSG, Seed Oils, Protein Intake, Behavioral Changes, Macro Adjustments, Personal Goals, Preferences