The Leo Alves Podcast

40 Episodes
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By: Leo Alves

I hope you've got your coffee handy. You'll need it as we share workout suggestions, nutrition hacks, consistency tips, life insights, a few laughs, and any other interesting topic, fitness or non-fitness related, thrown our way. What sets this podcast apart? It's just genuine conversations, experienced suggestions, and the occasional hard truth. So, let's make this journey together, one episode and a coffee at a time. Want more? Connect with me on Instagram and Twitter at @leoalvespt

A Personal Update!
#261
Last Monday at 9:12 PM

This episode was meant to be a Q&A… but I went completely off-script and just rolled with it.

I talk through how I started the podcast back in 2020, my upcoming trip to London and Europe’s biggest trading card show, my old “gym rat” phase, getting back into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, dealing with tennis elbow, and where my training and nutrition are at right now—including calorie tracking and how my approach has evolved over time. Think of it more as an unfiltered, behind-the-scenes episode.

 

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I Did 813 Chin-Ups in 30 Days — Here’s What Happened (ft. Myles Nesbeth)
#260
03/21/2026

I recently completed a 30-day chin-up challenge—logging over 800 reps—and in this episode, I sit down with coach Myles Nesbeth as he interviews me on what actually happened behind the scenes.

We break down where the idea came from, how I structured the training, and what it really felt like to show up every single day—even when motivation wasn’t there. From managing elbow stress to dealing with mental fatigue and the reality of pushing consistency to its limits.

 

Myles' Instagram

Myles' TikTok

 

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Can You Build Muscle Without Gaining Fat? (Q&A)
#262
03/19/2026

In this Q&A episode, I answer the most common questions around building muscle without gaining unnecessary fat. From calorie surpluses and protein intake to training mistakes and body recomposition, I break down what matters if you want to stay lean while making progress in the gym.

 

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14-Day Fat Loss Kick-Starter • Free Fitness Guides

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Your Fat Loss Journey Starts Here

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⚒️ My Personal Toolkit
Tools I use for training, work...


Fat Loss, Gym Supplements, Anime & Trading Cards | Q&A
#259
03/12/2026

In this Q&A episode, I answer 15 questions covering fat loss, fitness myths, gym confidence, and a few personal topics you've been curious about.

We talk about how long fat loss realistically takes, whether supplements actually matter, why so many people regain weight after dieting, and whether walking is enough for fat loss. I also share thoughts on training to failure, starting the gym when you feel intimidated, and what a sustainable fitness routine really looks like.

Along the way, I answer a few non-fitness questions too—including how I first got into anime, my fa...


10 Brutally Honest Fitness Lessons That Work
#258
03/05/2026

It took me nearly a decade in the gym to fully understand these fitness patterns — and I now see them repeatedly in people who feel stuck despite “doing everything right.”

In this episode, I break down ten hard-earned lessons around energy, motivation, consistency, calorie awareness, and long-term progress. If you’ve ever felt like you know what to do but still struggle to execute consistently, this will likely hit close to home.

 

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Why Fat Loss Feels Hard in the U.S.
#257
02/26/2026

In this episode, I share what happened when I spent 10 weeks living in Texas, and why, despite being a fitness coach, my weight still crept up. The experience forced me to confront something most fitness advice ignores: your environment plays a massive role in your fat loss success.

I break down how walkability, food accessibility, social pressure, and daily convenience can quietly work against you—especially if you live in the U.S.—and what you can actually do about it without relying on endless willpower.

 

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Carnivore, Calorie Myths & Over-Optimising (ft. Andrew Coates)
#256
02/19/2026

In this episode, I’m joined by Andrew Coates to unpack the current state of the fitness industry and the explosion of health information online. We discuss why even experts don’t agree, how social media rewards status games over nuance, and why over-optimising your approach can stall real progress.

We also dive into the future of trends like the carnivore diet, the evolution of GLP medications, and why many people wrongly believe they’re the exception when it comes to calorie expenditure.

 

🔗 Andrew's Links

Instagram • Threads

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Lifting 3x Per Week But No Results? Q&A on Fat Loss, Fasting, Supplements & Discipline
#255
02/13/2026

In this solo Q&A episode, I answer 15 honest questions about fat loss, strength training, consistency, calorie tracking, intermittent fasting, supplements, burnout, and the minimum effective dose of training for busy adults. If you’re lifting three times per week but not seeing results, struggling to stay consistent despite knowing what to do, or wondering whether fat loss is moving too slowly, this episode breaks it down clearly.

 

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PokĂŠmon Card Rarity, Investing Regret & The Reality of YouTube (ft. Sleeve No Card Behind)
#254
02/07/2026

In this episode, I sit down with Sleeve No Card Behind to talk about Pokémon card rarity, investing mistakes, and how rarity levels are shaping the modern hobby. We dive into missed opportunities like shadowless first edition Charizard, why top-tier vintage cards rarely crash, and whether YouTube helps or harms long-term enjoyment of collecting. We also cover Pokémon’s lack of pull-rate transparency, the risks of addiction in trading cards, and powerlifting and calisthenics.

 

"Sleeve No Card Behind" YouTube Channel

 

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The Boring Middle of Fitness and Why It Matters
#253
01/31/2026

In this episode, I break down the “boring middle” of fitness — the phase where nothing is wrong, progress feels flat, and motivation has worn off. I'll talk about why this stage confuses so many people, the common mistakes that cause slow drift backwards, and what long-term consistency actually looks like beyond hype and fresh starts.

 

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🎯 Start Free
14-Day Fat Loss Kick-Starter • Free Fitness Guides

📘 Read My Book
Your Fat Loss Journey Starts Here

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⚒️ My Persona...


What Consistent People Do Differently (That No One Mentions)
#252
01/24/2026

Most people believe consistent people are simply more motivated or disciplined — but that’s not what’s actually happening. In this episode, I break down what consistent people really do differently, and why so many fitness plans fall apart even when you care and know what to do.

 

🚀 Work With Me
Book a Consultation Call • 1:1 Online Coaching

🎯 Start Free
14-Day Fat Loss Kick-Starter • Free Fitness Guides

📘 Read My Book
Your Fat Loss Journey Starts Here

📲 Follow
Instagram • Threads • YouTube

⚒️ My Personal Toolkit

Tools I use for training, wor...


Why You Keep Starting Over Every Monday (And What To Do Instead)
#251
01/15/2026

Ever wondered why you keep starting over every Monday? In this episode, I break down the real psychology behind the “fresh start” mindset — why it feels good in the moment, why it keeps you stuck long-term, and what actually creates consistency that lasts longer than a week. I share coaching lessons, real client examples, and personal stories about perfectionism, snacking triggers, weekend spirals, and the start-stop cycle so many people fall into.

 

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15 Honest Answers About Fitness, Consistency, and Life
#250
01/08/2026

In this Q&A episode, I answer 15 honest questions about fat loss, consistency, and fitness for people with busy, chaotic lives. I cover the minimum effective dose for fat loss, whether tracking food still matters when consistency is shaky, what people overthink that barely moves the needle, and what a “good enough” week actually looks like.

 

🚀 Work With Me
Book a Consultation Call • 1:1 Online Coaching

🎯 Start Free
14-Day Fat Loss Kick-Starter • Free Fitness Guides

📘 Read My Book
Your Fat Loss Journey Starts Here

📲 Follow
Instagram • Threads • YouTube


Why Most New Year Fitness Goals Fail (And How to Fix It)
#249
01/01/2026

In this episode, I break down how to set yourself up for real health and fitness success in 2026. I explain why most New Year’s goals fail, how to create realistic fitness and nutrition goals, and why structure, consistency, and accountability matter far more than willpower. You’ll learn how to track progress properly, optimise your environment, and build habits that actually last beyond January.

 

🚀 Work With Me
Book a Consultation Call • 1:1 Online Coaching

🎯 Start Free
14-Day Fat Loss Kick-Starter • Free Fitness Guides

📘 Read My Book
Your Fat Loss Journey Start...


Q&A on Fat Loss, Healthy Eating Mistakes, and Changing Beliefs
#248
12/16/2025

In this Q&A episode, I answer 15 real questions covering fat loss, training 2–3 times per week, protein intake, calorie tracking, walking vs the gym, and what actually matters for long-term results. I also share a few personal answers about discipline, habits I’ve had to rein in, living in multiple countries, and beliefs I’ve changed since my early 20s.

 

🚀 Work With Me
Book a Consultation Call • 1:1 Online Coaching

🎯 Start Free
14-Day Fat Loss Kick-Starter • Free Fitness Guides

📘 Read My Book
Your Fat Loss Journey Starts Here

📲 Follow
Inst...


Gut Health 101: Daily Habits, Supplements & Red Flags (ft. Angela Genoni)
#247
12/09/2025

In this episode, I sit down with Australian nutritionist and gut-health expert Angela Genoni to unpack the most misunderstood areas of digestive health. We cover the gut symptoms people ignore, why the carnivore diet can appear to “work,” where supplements fit in, and whether fruit sugar is something to worry about. Angela also explains what your daily bowel movements can reveal about your health, the biggest sources of misinformation online—especially in women’s health—and the simple daily habits anyone can start today to rebuild a healthier gut.

 

Angela's Links:
Website
Threads

 

<...


How to Survive Week 3 of Any Fat Loss Plan
#246
12/02/2025

Week 1 feels exciting.
Week 2 still feels doable.
But Week 3?
That’s where most people often lose control of their fat-loss goals without even realising why.

In this episode, I break down reasons people fall apart in Week 3, the psychology behind the “first friction point,” and the exact strategies that make Week 3 the turning point instead of the downfall. If you feel stuck, inconsistent, frustrated, or like your early motivation always disappears at the same time… this one is for you.

 

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Why Collectors and Gamers Struggle With Snacking — The Real Reason
#245
11/25/2025

In this episode, I break down the eating habits I built as a teenager during long gaming sessions—habits that many collectors, gamers, anime fans, and creators still struggle with today. I explain why “automatic snacking” happens during hyper-focus activities, how those patterns form, and why so many adults in this niche never truly escape them. You’ll learn the psychology behind gaming-snack loops, the behaviours that carry into adulthood, and the exact framework I used to outgrow those habits for good.

 

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How to Gamify Fitness (and Stick to It)
#244
11/18/2025

If you’ve ever treated the gym like a side quest—hyped at first, then ghosted halfway through the campaign—this episode’s for you.

I break down how to turn your fitness into a real-life RPG. You’ll build an XP system for workouts, design your own quest log, track streaks like achievements, and even unlock “difficulty modes” when you’re ready for a challenge. Whether you’re grinding ranked matches, chasing shiny pulls, or just trying to feel more like your in-game main character, this is your full guide to levelling up IRL.

 

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How I Wasted My First Two Gym Years
#243
11/11/2025

When I first started lifting, I wasted nearly two years doing things the hard way—repeating poor workouts, trusting bad nutrition advice, and chasing quick fixes that never worked. In this episode, I share the exact mistakes I made early in my lifting journey and what I’d do differently today. From skipping form feedback and overusing supplements to believing coconut oil was “magic,” these are the lessons that’ll save you time, frustration, and money if you’re still figuring things out.

 

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14-Da...


My Honest Answers to 15 Fitness & Life Questions
#242
11/04/2025

In this episode, I answer your fitness and life questions—from training frequency, motivation, and nutrition to card collecting, mindset shifts, and fictional heroes. Whether you’re trying to lose fat, build muscle, or stay consistent, this episode breaks down the fundamentals in a way that’s both practical and relatable.

 

Sign up to Become A 1:1 Online Fitness Member
Buy My Book, 'Your Fat Loss Journey Starts Here'
Start My Free 14-Day Fat Loss Kick-Starter
My Instagram
My Threads
My YouTube channel
Free Fitness Guides

 

Timestam...


Why Trading Card Collectors Would Crush It at Fitness
#241
10/28/2025

In this episode, I explain why trading card collectors already have the mindset to crush it in fitness—they just don’t realise it yet. From patience and consistency to tracking and long-term thinking, collectors already live by the same principles that build a strong, lean body.

 

Sign up to Become A 1:1 Online Fitness Member
Buy My Book, 'Your Fat Loss Journey Starts Here'
Start My Free 14-Day Fat Loss Kick-Starter
My Instagram
My Threads
My YouTube channel
Free Fitness Guides

 

Timestamps:
00:41 It's Okay to Giv...


Why I’m Niching Down (And What Comes Next)
#240
10/17/2025

I’ve spent years talking about fitness, fat loss, and strength training—and that won’t stop. But lately, I’ve realised this podcast needs to evolve with me. In this episode, I explain why The Leo Alves Podcast is niching down—combining my worlds of fitness, card collecting, gaming, anime, and Marvel. I talk about creative burnout, staying authentic as a coach, and why it’s okay to let your content evolve as you do. If you’ve ever felt torn between different passions, this episode will show you that you can bring them together and still stay true to your m...


Why Fat Loss Feels Hard (Before It Gets Easy)
#239
10/10/2025

Most people quit their fat loss journey right before things finally start working. In this episode, I break down the biggest reasons why people give up, from plateaus, scale obsession, and boredom to all-or-nothing thinking—and what actually happens if you stick it out long enough for fat loss to “click.” I’ll share personal experiences, client lessons, and practical strategies so you can stay consistent and finally see results that last.

If you’ve ever felt like giving up because fat loss feels too slow or too hard, this episode will help you understand why and give you t...


Q&A: Fat Loss Plateaus, Cardio, Fad Diets & More
#238
10/03/2025

In this episode, I’m answering 15 of your most asked questions on fat loss, fitness, nutrition, and lifestyle. From the biggest fat loss mistakes and breaking through plateaus, to whether fad diets like keto or intermittent fasting really work, I cover it all. I also mix in some fun personal questions—like my go-to cuisine, surprising foods I’ve tried while travelling, and even the TV shows I can rewatch endlessly.

If you’ve ever wondered about cardio for fat loss, supplements like creatine, gym machines vs free weights, or how to stay consistent when motivation drops, this Q&A...


10 Essential Q&As on Building Muscle
#237
09/26/2025

In this episode, I answer the 10 most common questions about muscle growth so you can finally stop second-guessing your training. From how often you need to work out, to whether soreness matters, to if you can grow muscle on 6 hours of sleep, I break it all down in a simple and practical way. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced lifter, this Q&A will give you the clarity and confidence to build muscle effectively.

 

Sign up to Become A 1:1 Online Fitness Member
Buy My Book, 'Your Fat Loss Journey Starts Here'
Start My...


18 Life and Fitness Lessons at 30
#236
09/19/2025

Turning 30 has me reflecting on the last three decades and the biggest lessons I’ve learned along the way. In this special episode, I share 18 lessons from 30 years of life, spanning fitness, mindset, and personal growth. From my early injuries in South London gyms, to living in Japan, Vermont, and Texas, to mistakes I made with overtraining, calorie tracking, and balance, I cover the insights that shaped me as a coach and as a person. Whether you’re here for fitness takeaways or life perspective, these lessons will help you avoid the mistakes I made and give you clarity on h...


10 Biggest Protein Questions Answered
#235
09/12/2025

In this episode, I answer the 10 biggest protein questions people ask when trying to build muscle, lose fat, or improve their health. From how much protein you really need, to whether shakes are necessary, when to eat it, plant vs animal proteins, and even the cheapest ways to hit your protein goals. Everything is covered here!

 

🚀 Work With Me
Book a Consultation Call • 1:1 Online Coaching

🎯 Start Free
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📘 Read My Book
Your Fat Loss Journey Starts Here

📲 Follow
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What Living in the US Taught Me About Food
#234
09/05/2025

In this solo episode, I share my personal experience with American food culture as a European who studied, travelled, and lived in the USA—especially the unexpected digestive chaos I faced during my 10-week stay in Texas. From shocking portion sizes and hyper-sweetened cereals to a complete shift in walkability and environment, I break down how these differences impacted my body, my fat gain, and my overall health—even while staying active and eating relatively balanced. I also reflect on how New England felt completely different, and why so many Americans are unknowingly fighting an uphill battle with their food...


Underrated Gym Advice, Travel Surprises, and Intuitive Eating
#233
08/29/2025

In this solo Q&A episode, I unpack the key differences between eating for performance and eating for fat loss, and whether cheat meals help or hurt your progress. I dive into underrated gym tips, how to stay active while travelling without ruining the trip, and why intuitive eating might not be the best choice for fat loss. You’ll hear my thoughts on training when tired, whether meal prep is actually essential, and how I approach programming workouts for busy people. I also share a small habit that unexpectedly improved my life, a travel experience that totally caught me...


Cringe Gym Stories, Life Lessons, and Fat Loss Truths
#232
08/22/2025

In this solo Q&A episode, I’m answering your questions about the biggest fitness misconceptions, including why people obsess over the “perfect workout split” when it rarely matters, and how to know if you’re actually eating enough protein. I’ll share a funny, awkward story from my early gym days, my honest take on cardio for fat loss, and a recent mistake I made that taught me a valuable lesson. You’ll also hear my thoughts on breaking strength plateaus, whether supplements are truly worth it, and how random habits from Japan and Portugal still shape my daily routin...


Fitness Myths, Social Life Balance, and Overrated Fat Loss Hacks
#231
08/15/2025

In this solo Q&A episode, I tackle the most common fat loss mistakes people make when they avoid food tracking, why "doing more" isn't always the answer to stalled progress, and how to know if your workout plan is actually working. I also share personal stories, including a 'bad' habit that taught me a life-changing lesson, nostalgic memories from my childhood, and how living in Portugal has shaped my approach to fitness and life. We’ll debunk frustrating fitness myths, expose overrated fat loss hacks, and I’ll give you practical advice for staying consistent when life gets busy...


How Busy Parents Can Get Fit (ft. Chris Gates)
#230
08/08/2025

Today, I’m joined by Chris Gates, a fitness coach who specialises in helping busy parents build sustainable health and fitness routines. We break down why doing “more” isn’t the answer, how flexible dieting can be incredibly effective for parents, and how even two workouts a week can transform your strength. Chris also dives into simple nutrition habits, the importance of behaviour change, and why leading by example for your kids matters more than you think. If you’re a parent struggling to balance fitness with family, this episode is for you.

 

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The Real Problem with the American Food System (ft. Nolan Vannata)
#229
08/01/2025

This week, I chat with fitness coach Nolan Vannata about the growing health and obesity crisis in America. We explore how the modern food environment, from chemical-laced ultra-processed foods to fear-mongering around fruit, is fuelling confusion and poor health outcomes. Nolan breaks down key mindset shifts for long-term success, the common traps beginners fall into, and why so many people tie their identity to their diet. We also touch on Threads as a rising platform, Nolan’s love of cooking, and why most people need to rethink how they train and eat.

 

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The Biggest Fitness Lies Still Around in 2026 (ft. Adam Pecoraro)
#228
07/24/2025

This week, I’m joined by Adam Pecoraro — a no-BS fitness coach who’s been helping men lose body fat sustainably. We dive into the biggest lies still being pushed in the fitness industry, why extreme methods like carnivore still get attention, and how social media fuels unrealistic physique standards through hidden steroid use. Adam shares what a bare-minimum realistic week looks like for busy men, and what actually sets apart clients who lose 30+ pounds and keep it off for good.

 

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Buy My Book, 'Your Fat Loss Jo...


All Sugar Diets, MAHA Drama, and Health Hype (ft. Beth Feraco)
#227
05/29/2025

Beth Feraco joins me to talk about everything from the absurdity of the “all sugar diet” trend to why basic nutrition advice—like “eat vegetables”—is now controversial online. We dive into personal responsibility, food deserts, shady supplement marketing, and her own photoshoot prep journey. If you’re tired of fitness fluff and want real talk, this is the episode for you.

 

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Beth's Website
Buy My Book, 'Your Fat Loss Journey Starts Here'
Sign up For My Free 14-Day Fat Loss Kick-Starter
Beth's Instagram
...


Japanese Fitness Culture and Fat Loss Simplicity (ft. Andy Morgan)
#226
05/22/2025

In this episode, I’m joined by Tokyo-based fitness coach Andy Morgan, from Ripped Body, known for cutting through the noise with practical, evidence-based advice. We discuss Japan’s unique health culture, the downside of misleading supplements, how “victim mentality” is holding people back, and why simple nutrition advice often gets overlooked. Andy also shares what successful clients actually do differently, the problem with forcing kids to finish their plates, and how to train effectively when you’ve only got 2–3 days a week. Whether you're a seasoned lifter or a beginner stuck in a rut, this episode will give you clarity...


From Wedding Prep to Fat Loss Strategy (ft. Daniel Yores)
#225
04/24/2025

In this episode, I’m joined by fitness coach Daniel Yores—just weeks after his wedding—to chat about nutrition, training, and the mindset needed for fat loss. We dive into how Daniel prepped for his big day, how things are changing now that he's married, and why most people wait too long to start their fitness journey.

You’ll also learn:
✅ What aggressive fat loss phases are and when they’re appropriate
✅ The #1 mistake people make during and after a diet
✅ Whether steps and cardio are essential
✅ What to do if you’re starting your jou...


Low-Carb Diets, Training While Tired & Maintaining Momentum
#224
04/21/2025

In this Q&A episode, I answer questions about sustainable fat loss, motivation, food quality, and how to keep the weight off long-term. I also share my personal takes on life, sports, and memorable meals.

Here’s what you’ll learn:
✅ How to maintain your fat loss results without rebounding
✅ Whether low-carb or keto diets are effective long-term
✅ If you should train when you feel tired or run-down
✅ How to handle workouts and nutrition while travelling
✅ How to adjust your nutrition when switching from fat loss to maintenance

Plus, I share the spor...


Fat Loss Facts, Full-Body vs Splits & Weird Food Combos – Q&A Edition
#223
04/17/2025

In this Q&A episode, I break down common fat loss and training myths—like whether you really need to lift heavy to “tone up” and whether pre-workouts are worth the hype. I also answer questions about full-body vs. split workouts, recovering well, and how to feel more confident in the gym.

Here’s what else I speak about:
✅ What matters more for fat loss—diet or movement?
✅ Is eating the same meals every day okay?
✅ Bare minimum fitness strategy for people with busy jobs
✅ How to spot the difference between a plateau and just needing p...