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Muscles and Malarkey

Muscles and Malarkey

Written by: Mary
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About this listen

Welcome to Muscles and Malarkey, your go-to podcast for all things strength, fitness, and fun! I'm your host, Mary. This show is dedicated to making strength training and fitness simple, accessible, and enjoyable.

Whether you’re just starting your strength journey or looking to deepen your knowledge, Muscles and Malarkey is here to guide you through it all. From the basics of training, nutrition, and programming to in-depth explorations of intriguing fitness topics, I've got you covered. I’ll also feature interviews with individuals from various fitness backgrounds to provide diverse perspectives and insights.

Each episode is crafted to help you navigate your fitness path with confidence and clarity. These are the lessons and tips I wish I had when I began my strength training journey in 2017, and now I’m sharing them with you.

Got questions or topics you want me to cover? Reach out to me on Instagram at @MusclesandMalarkey or email us at musclesandmalarkey@gmail.com. Don’t forget to follow the podcast for the latest updates and join our community of fitness enthusiasts!

Get ready to lift, learn, and laugh with Muscles and Malarkey!



© 2026 Muscles and Malarkey
Exercise & Fitness Fitness, Diet & Nutrition Hygiene & Healthy Living Psychology Psychology & Mental Health
Episodes
  • Ep 26: New Year, Same Weights: Season 3 Premiere
    Jan 28 2026

    Season 3 is here, y’all!

    In this kickoff episode of Muscles & Malarkey, I am back and doing things a little differently. Instead of recording months in advance, Season 3 is all about being more present, more current, and more connected to what’s actually happening in the fitness world (yes, even the chaos).

    I dive into New Year momentum — why you don’t have to change just because it’s January, but why it’s also totally okay if that’s what gets you started. She shares practical reminders for enjoying the gym, quieting negative self-talk, and finding a sustainable “why” that lasts longer than motivation.

    You’ll also hear real-life advice on how to make friends in the gym, whether you’re brand new or a seasoned lifter, plus a reminder for gym regulars on how a little kindness can make a huge difference for new faces.

    To wrap it up, I recap my latest powerlifting meet at the Hoosier Hoedown — from managing stress and adjusting expectations to going absolutely feral on deadlifts and walking away with a PR.

    Season 3 starts now. Let’s lift, laugh, and make the gym a better place together.

    Follow me on Instagram at MusclesandMalarkey.
    Email me at MusclesandMalarkey@gmail.com for any questions or feedback!
    Please share, rate, review, and subscribe. It really helps get the podcast out to more people!

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    20 mins
  • Ep 25: Coaching with Purpose: Jess ‘Mamabear’ Rogers on Raw to Equipped and Why We Lift
    Oct 8 2025

    It’s the Season 2 finale of Muscles and Malarkey, and we’re closing things out with someone truly special — my coach, Jess “Mamabear” Rogers

    Jess has an incredible journey, from starting out raw to becoming a powerhouse equipped lifter. In this episode, we dive into her evolution as an athlete, the lessons she’s learned along the way, and what it really takes to be a great coach — not just someone chasing likes on the ‘gram.

    We also get into the heart of it all: why we do this sport, what keeps us showing up, and how Jess’s passion has shaped the lifters around her. It’s honest, insightful, and the perfect way to wrap up Season 2.

    🎧 Tune in for a conversation full of grit, wisdom, and a whole lot of Mamabear energy.

    Follow me on Instagram at MusclesandMalarkey.
    Email me at MusclesandMalarkey@gmail.com for any questions or feedback!
    Please share, rate, review, and subscribe. It really helps get the podcast out to more people!

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    37 mins
  • Ep 24: Don’t Stress, Just Press: How to Sign Up for Your First Powerlifting Meet
    Sep 24 2025

    Your first powerlifting meet doesn’t have to be scary—this beginner-friendly guide walks you through how to sign up, what to pack, and how to step on the platform with confidence.

    In this episode, I break down everything you need to know to feel confident stepping onto the platform, including:
    ✅ How to sign up for a powerlifting meet (federations, memberships, and rules made simple)
    ✅ Must-haves for your meet day bag (gear, food, and little things that make a big difference)
    ✅ Tips to stay calm, confident, and ready to crush your lifts on meet day

    Whether you’re chasing PRs or just curious about the process, this guide will take the guesswork out of competing and get you pumped for your first meet. 🏋️‍♀️✨

    Follow me on Instagram at MusclesandMalarkey.
    Email me at MusclesandMalarkey@gmail.com for any questions or feedback!
    Please share, rate, review, and subscribe. It really helps get the podcast out to more people!

    Show More Show Less
    20 mins
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