#989 - Dorian Yates

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00:00

  Dorian Yates: From UK Streets to Bodybuilding Stardom

  • Dorian Yates remembers his journey starting in 1990 at Gold's Gym in California after moving from the UK.
  • He made a significant impact by securing second place at the Night of Champions contest in New York.
  • Yates reflects on the dedication and extreme mindset required to excel in bodybuilding while escaping a challenging childhood in the UK.
• 00:06:34

  Mastering Muscle Growth: Dorian Yates' Revolutionary Training Techniques

  • Yates discusses learning from influential figures like Arthur Jones and Mike Mentzer to optimize his training for muscle growth.
  • He emphasizes the importance of recovery in the muscle-building process and warns against the dangers of overtraining.
  • Yates reveals his efficient training methodology, advocating for shorter, intense workouts instead of prolonged training sessions.
• 00:10:10

  Dorian Yates Transitions from Bodybuilding to Yoga: A Journey of Healing and Adaptation

  • Dorian Yates, once a top competitive bodybuilder, discusses his shift away from heavy lifting due to injuries.
  • Inspired by a DMT trip, he explores yoga as a new form of exercise, enhancing his mobility and spiritual health.
  • Yates emphasizes the importance of holistic fitness, contrasting bodybuilding's muscle isolation with yoga's full-body connection.
• 00:16:13

  Dorian Yates and Ronnie Coleman: The Consequences of Bodybuilding on Health and Mobility

  • Yates reflects on the long-term health issues faced by retired bodybuilders, citing Ronnie Coleman's severe back surgeries.
  • He expresses confidence in future medical advancements, particularly in stem cell research for joint recovery.
  • Yates discusses preventative measures he takes, including inversion therapy and yoga, to manage his injuries effectively.
• 00:20:33

  Louis Simmons and His Revolutionary Decompression Machine for Back Pain Relief

  • Louis Simmons developed a unique machine that strengthens the back while providing active decompression, showcasing its efficacy for disc issues.
  • Discussions highlight the importance of balancing bodybuilding with specific exercises to avoid overloading small supporting muscles.
  • Training methods have evolved, with contemporary athletes focusing on preventative exercises to reduce injury risks.
• 00:24:24

  The Evolution of Bodybuilding: From Personal Responsibility to Coach Dependency

  • The speaker reflects on past training experiences and the importance of personal responsibility in bodybuilding, contrasting it with modern reliance on coaches.
  • There is a critique of current bodybuilding coaching practices, questioning the qualifications and effectiveness of many coaches in today's industry.
  • Emphasizing the significance of goal-setting and commitment, the speaker advocates for a structured approach to training and personal development in bodybuilding.
• 00:30:02

  Arnold Schwarzenegger and Frank Zane: The Bodybuilding Aesthetic Debate

  • Discussion of the bodybuilding criteria during the eras of Arnold Schwarzenegger and Frank Zane, highlighting differences in size and aesthetics.
  • Lee Haney's dominance with eight Mr. Olympia titles raises questions about aesthetics versus sheer size in bodybuilding competition.
  • Critique of modern bodybuilding divisions like Men's Physique and Classic Bodybuilding as a response to size-focused standards.
• 00:35:25

  Tom Platt's Legacy and the Shift in Bodybuilding Ethics

  • Tom Platt's exceptional leg development inspires new generations, but the focus on pushing physical limits is criticized as lacking in modern bodybuilding culture.
  • The evolution of drug use in bodybuilding, with steroids becoming mainstream and prevalent among casual gym-goers for quick results.
  • Celebrity examples, including Nelly and Hugh Jackman, illustrate the pressure to maintain impressive physiques for roles and public appearances, raising concerns over health risks.
• 00:39:50

  Dorian Yates: From Quiet Basement to Mr. Olympia Glory

  • Dorian Yates, a quiet bodybuilder, reflects on his journey to becoming Mr. Olympia through dedication and hard work.
  • Yates discusses winning the British Championship despite struggling with poverty and living in a one-bedroom apartment.
  • He emphasizes the mental challenges faced by athletes post-retirement and the search for identity after injury.
• 00:46:59

  Navigating Life After Bodybuilding: The Realities for Dorian Yates and Fellow Athletes

  • Yates shares insights on the pressures athletes face when transitioning into retirement and the struggle with loss of purpose.
  • He draws parallels with Frank Bruno, highlighting the difficulties former champions encounter in overcoming their past identities.
  • Yates promotes the importance of self-satisfaction and having no regrets regarding one's career choices and efforts in bodybuilding.
• 00:49:49

  Jeff Bridges and the Steroid Dilemma: Insights from Bodybuilding to MMA

  • Discussion on Jeff Bridges' acting career and the impact of steroids in bodybuilding.
  • Personal experiences shared regarding the use of anabolic steroids for competitions.
  • Examination of how competitive athletes, including women in MMA, are influenced by the desire to excel.
• 00:57:16

  The Role of USADA in Drug Testing: Transforming UFC and Bodybuilding

  • Jeff Novitsky's leadership at USADA and its effect on steroid use in UFC.
  • Challenges of random drug testing and its impact on fighter performance.
  • Discussion on the surge of EPO and other substances in sports, emphasizing shifts in athlete appearance post-testing.
• 00:59:49

  Lance Armstrong and the Testosterone Dilemma in Competitive Sports

  • Discussion of Lance Armstrong's fall from grace due to doping allegations in cycling.
  • Mention of testosterone replacement therapy and its implications for fighters facing head trauma.
  • Insights on natural supplements and training methods to maintain testosterone levels as one ages.
• 01:07:38

  Tyron Woodley: The Power and Strategy of an MMA Champion

  • Examination of Tyron Woodley's unique fighting style and remarkable power.
  • Comparison between muscularity and actual fighting strength in MMA athletes.
  • Discussion of the importance of strength and conditioning alongside skill in modern MMA training.
• 01:13:47

  Dorian Yates on Genetic Factors and Bodybuilding Success

  • Dorian Yates emphasizes the crucial role of genetics in bodybuilding success.
  • He discusses how certain body types are inherently advantageous for competitive bodybuilding.
  • Yates shares personal experiences and observations regarding individuals' potential and limitations in the sport.
• 01:56:12

  Mark Hunt and the Intricacies of Fighting: Skills vs. Genetics

  • Mark Hunt is highlighted as a genetically gifted fighter who defies expectations in bouts.
  • The discussion includes the implications of inherent traits in absorbing punishment and resilience in fighting.
  • Yates shares insights on brain injuries in sports, contrasting MMA with other contact sports like football.
• 01:20:00

  Bodybuilding Journey: The Trials of Nutrition and Cardio with Bodybuilder Insights

  • Discusses the efficiency and benefits of cardio exercises, including short interval training techniques.
  • Explains the struggles of balancing calorie restriction while maintaining muscle mass during bodybuilding contests.
  • Mentions the impact of nutrition on performance, including specific diet strategies and the role of steroids in muscle preservation.
• 01:42:00

  Debunking Myths: The Real Story of Fats and Carbs with Timeless Insights from the Bodybuilding Community

  • Highlights the evolution of nutritional advice, including the misconceptions surrounding fats and sugars in diets.
  • Shares personal anecdotes of dietary preferences and meal prep methods used during competitive bodybuilding.
  • Critiques the sugar industry's influence on public health narratives, referencing historical studies on dietary impacts.
• 01:13:47

  Dorian Yates Reflects on the Grueling Mental and Physical Challenges of Bodybuilding

  • Dorian Yates discusses the tremendous mental challenges faced while preparing for bodybuilding contests, emphasizing the struggle against the urge to eat.
  • He shares insights on how he transitioned from competitive bodybuilding to focusing on health and wellness, describing himself as a 'body reducer.'
  • Yates reminisces about his extreme physique during his peak, particularly his record forearm measurements, attributing them to grip training during his workouts.
• 02:23:18

  Dorian Yates Compares the Evolution of Bodybuilding Standards and Today's Competitors

  • Yates contrasts the competitive bodybuilding scene of the 90s, where he competed with prominent figures like Ronnie Coleman and Sean Ray, to the current landscape dominated by Phil Heath.
  • He notes a decline in interest for pure bodybuilding as many athletes shift towards other fitness avenues such as CrossFit and men's physique competitions.
  • Yates raises concerns about the quality of today's bodybuilding standards, mentioning the dangers of excessive size without refinement, leading to potential health risks.
• 01:00:00

  Dorian Yates' Struggles with Steroids, Health, and Retirement

  • Dorian Yates experiences health issues related to steroid use and reflects on their impact post-retirement.
  • He discusses the psychological effects of retiring while dealing with a divorce and the death of a loved one.
  • Yates shares his journey of recovery and eventual testosterone replacement therapy after struggling with depression and anxiety.
• 01:45:00

  The Controversial World of Steroids in Professional Sports: Insights from Dorian Yates and Lance Armstrong

  • Yates reveals discussions from his past with Olympic gold medalist Ben Johnson regarding systemic steroid use in athletics.
  • He compares his experience to Lance Armstrong's, highlighting the culture of cheating in competitive sports.
  • Yates discusses the history of steroids, including their development for athletes and the misconceptions surrounding their effects.
• 01:11:00

  Bodybuilder Insights: The Steroid Debate and Personal Responsibility

  • Discussion on personal steroid usage among bodybuilders and the varying reactions to the perceived effects.
  • The legal status of steroids in the UK and the implications of education versus prohibition on drug use.
  • Mention of Glenn Greenwald's insights on Portugal's approach to drug legalization and its positive societal effects.
• 01:15:22

  DMT Experiences: Healing and Personal Revelation Through Psychedelics

  • Personal account of exploring Iowasca and DMT, highlighting its profound psychological effects.
  • Detail of a transformative DMT session with a friend revealing deep-seated subconscious trauma.
  • Comparison between the quick intensity of DMT and the gradual therapeutic possibilities of Iowasca, emphasizing the importance of preparation.
• 01:13:47

  Brian's Transformation: From Bodybuilder to Spiritual Guide Through DMT

  • Brian acknowledges his troubled past, including childhood trauma caused by his stepdad.
  • He describes his experiences with psychedelics, particularly DMT and IOS, which lead to significant personal reflections.
  • Brian emphasizes the importance of understanding different perspectives and the role of spirituality in personal growth.
• 01:56:12

  The Influence of DMT: Unraveling Reality and Politics with Brian's Insights

  • Brian argues for the necessity of psychedelic experiences for politicians to foster empathy and understanding.
  • He explains how different psychedelic journeys reveal the impact of thoughts on reality, both positive and negative.
  • Reference to contemporary discussions on reality and consciousness led by figures like Professor Gates and Neil deGrasse Tyson.
• 01:13:47

  From Birmingham to Bodybuilding: The Spiritual Journey of an Aspiring Champion

  • The speaker reflects on their childhood dreams of becoming a bodybuilder despite skepticism from peers.
  • They discuss the intersection of science and spirituality, emphasizing the mind's role in shaping reality.
  • Mentions of spiritual figures like Buddha and Jesus propose how transcending physical limitations can lead to extraordinary experiences.
• 01:56:12

  DMT Adventures: Navigating the Divine and Mystical Experience

  • The speaker shares personal experiences with DMT, suggesting it offers a connection to a divine force.
  • A friend's intense reaction to DMT highlights the unpredictable nature of psychedelic experiences.
  • Exploration of floatation tanks and their effects on mental state reveals contrasts in experiences, from boredom to deep relaxation.
• 01:41:59

  Trump's Twitter Controversy: The Fragile Leadership of the Free World

  • Discussion on how stand-up comedy influences thought processes and the importance of perspective.
  • Critique of President Trump's behavior on Twitter as detrimental to his role as leader.
  • Comparison of Trump’s presidency to a performance with a suggestion that he is influenced by external forces.
• 01:50:04

  Hemp vs. Big Industry: The Hidden Wars of William Randolph Hearst

  • Exploration of the potential of hemp as a superior material and its historical significance.
  • Criticism of William Randolph Hearst for demonizing hemp to protect his paper industry interests.
  • Discussion on the economic implications of cannabis and the pushback from traditional industries.
• 01:51:56

  William Randolph Hearst's Propaganda War Against Hemp and Cannabis

  • William Randolph Hearst owned newspapers, paper mills, and forests, which he aimed to protect from competition from hemp.
  • Hemp was a superior material for paper and used in historic documents, including the Declaration of Independence.
  • The negative portrayal of marijuana as a threat from racial minorities was used to rally public support against hemp legalization.
• 02:58:11

  The Rise of Legal Cannabis and Its Health Benefits

  • Nevada declared a state of emergency due to a tax shortfall resulting from cannabis-related revenue.
  • Individuals have reported curing cancer through the use of cannabis oil, leading to public interest in its health benefits.
  • The conflict between natural remedies and pharmaceutical interests complicates the conversation around cannabis legality and health claims.
• 01:13:47

  Joe Rogan and Jeff Sessions: Debunking Marijuana Myths

  • Joe Rogan discusses the stigma surrounding marijuana use and contrasts it with misconceptions fueled by public figures like Jeff Sessions.
  • The conversation highlights the societal belief that marijuana leads to laziness, while emphasizing examples of productive use among athletes.
  • Rogan references a significant study by Donald Tashkin that shows marijuana smokers experience no increased risk of lung cancer compared to non-smokers.
• 01:56:12

  Marijuana Usage in Sports: From Jiu-Jitsu to Bodybuilding

  • Rogan and his guests share insights into how athletes, particularly in jiu-jitsu and bodybuilding, utilize marijuana to enhance focus and relaxation during training.
  • The discussion reveals how cannabis can provide athletes with advantages such as increased oxygen delivery and reduced perception of pain during strenuous activities.
  • The conversation mentions historical figures in bodybuilding like Arnold Schwarzenegger, hinting at a long-standing, although hidden, culture of cannabis use among athletes.
• 01:13:47

  Cannabis and the NFL: The Ignorance of Drug Policies in Sports

  • Discussion about NFL's controversial stance on marijuana use among players despite the physical dangers of the sport.
  • Mention of the potential protective effects of cannabis on brain health against conditions like Alzheimer's.
  • Comparative overview of cannabis legality in countries such as Spain, Holland, and the UK, highlighting growing cultural acceptance.
• 01:56:12

  Super League: A New Era of Competitive Strength Athletics

  • Introduction of a new competition called Super League for bodybuilders and strength athletes, emphasizing functional strength.
  • Explanation of the competition format including lifting rounds and health-focused physique assessments.
  • Highlighting the growing interest in strength sports that combine traditional bodybuilding with powerlifting, aimed at attracting a broader range of athletes.
• 01:22:18

  John Jones vs Daniel Cormier: Anticipating the Epic Showdown in Anaheim

  • Discussion about the exciting match between John Jones and Daniel Cormier.
  • The event is set to take place in Anaheim, making it a significant location for fans.
  • Mention of other notable fighters like Cowboy Seroni and Robbie Law on the same card.
• 01:56:12

  Celebrating MMA: Reflecting on a Great Conversation with Joe Rogan

  • A heartfelt gratitude expressed for the opportunity to appear on Joe Rogan's podcast.
  • The conversation lasted nearly three hours, highlighting the enjoyable nature of the discussion.
  • A light-hearted conclusion with a suggestion to relax and smoke a joint after the engaging talk.