50% Facts

Hosted by Jim McDonald

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500

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Dec 2025

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About the show

A podcast that examines how health, fitness, nutrition, mental health…even sex...are portrayed in popular culture, including movies and social media. And how those portrayals are sometimes distorted beyond recognition. Veteran podcaster Jim McDonald hosts discussions with guests from the world of weights, fitness, and sometimes entertainment and sports. Jim is the owner of Third Street Barbell in Sacramento, CA. Mike "Silent Mike" Farr appeared as co-host through mid-2025. Business inquiries: Jim@thejimmcd.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts--5538735/support .

Listen to episodes

60 recent

December 24, 2025Episode 49753 min

Scrooged! (1988)| 50% Facts Holiday Special Review | Guest cohost Josh Hajar

In this conversation, Jim and Josh discuss the Christmas movie 'Scrooge'd', reflecting on its nostalgic value, Bill Murray's career, and the themes of corporate greed and morality. They explore the film's impact on their childhood memories, the casting choices, and how it compares to other holiday films. The discussion also delves into character development, relationships, and the film's overall message, culminating in ratings and final thoughts. You can find Josh on Instagram @amazingjrab https://www.instagram.com/amazingjrab/. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Scrooge'd 04:02 Bill Murray's Career and Scrooge's Impact 09:49 Themes of Corporate Greed and Morality 17:57 Nostalgia and Family Memories 23:56 Casting and Production Insights 29:55 Comparisons with Other Holiday Films 36:03 Character Development and Relationships 42:00 Final Thoughts and Ratings Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com! Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/! Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/ 50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. Hosted by Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts--5538735/support .

December 18, 2025Episode 49653 min

Creating safe outlets for coping with trauma| Guest: firefighter Chad Dillon

In this conversation, Jim McDonald and firefighter Chad Dillon delve into deeper topics surrounding mental health, community, and self-expression through photography and music. They discuss Chad's journey from firefighting to founding the nonprofit, Ruted Above, aimed at fostering community connections and safe spaces for expression. The conversation highlights the importance of therapy, the impact of culture on personal growth, and the role of art in healing. They also touch on the significance of manifesting goals and the influence of music and tattoos in their lives. You can find Chad and his new non-profit on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/ruted_above/ Chapters 00:00 Reconnecting and Reflecting on the Past 03:00 The Journey into Photography and Culture 05:53 Exploring Mental Health and Personal Growth 09:12 The Impact of Community and Expression 12:07 Building a Nonprofit: Rooted Above 15:05 The Art of Photography and Its Evolution 18:01 The Importance of Community and Connection 27:04 The Art of Photography and Personal Expression 29:16 Building Community Through Events and Nonprofits 32:06 The Search for Belonging in a Negative World 33:50 Mental Health and Identity in First Responders 37:41 The Impact of Technology on Human Connection 41:18 Tattoos: Personal Stories and Meanings 45:02 Manifesting Goals and Building Community 48:26 Music as Motivation and Personal Growth Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com! Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/! Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/ 50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. Hosted by Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/! Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts--5538735/support .

November 26, 2025Episode 49551 min

Die Hard 2: Die Harder | Holiday Film Fest | Guest co-host Josh Hajjar

In something of an annual tradition, the Holiday Film Fest is back with this Christmas flick for Thanksgiving. Yes, Die Hard 2 is a Christmas movie! In this film, detective John McClane (Bruce Willis) tries to stop a terrorist plot at Washington D.C.'s Dulles International Airport on Christmas Eve. After the incident at Nakatomi Plaza, it’s fair to wonder if this guy can ever catch a break. If nothing else, the broadcast version of this film gave us the iconic phrase, “Yippee Ki‐Yay, Mister Falcon!” Josh Hajjar is back to help break this one down. You can find Josh on Instagram @amazingjrab https://www.instagram.com/amazingjrab/. Shoot him a follow. ____ Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com! Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/! Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/ 50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts--5538735/support .

November 12, 2025Episode 4941 hr 24 min

Paul Oneid | From Injury to Strength

In this conversation, Jim and Paul Oneid discuss the current state of gyms post-pandemic, sharing insights on the challenges faced by gym owners and members alike. They delve into Paul's personal journey of injury recovery after a severe quad injury, exploring the innovative rehabilitation techniques he employed. The discussion also highlights the importance of foundational training and the long-term commitment necessary for maintaining health and fitness. In this conversation, Paul discusses the importance of sustainable fitness habits, the role of relationships in coaching, and understanding client motivations. He emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to nutrition and fitness, focusing on abundance rather than restriction. The discussion also explores the application of peptides in health and performance, emphasizing the importance of monitoring and understanding their effects. Overall, the conversation provides valuable insights into coaching, nutrition, and personal development. You can find Paul on Instagram @pauloneid https://www.instagram.com/pauloneid/ Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/! Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/ 50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. ____ Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts--5538735/support .

November 5, 2025Episode 4931 hr 2 min

Larry Wheels with John Gaglione | The Power of Resilience

This is something of a follow-up to episode 491 with John Gaglione about the training environment. This time, Larry Wheels, who was coached by John and has become an iconic figure in the fitness world, joins (from Russia!). In this conversation, Larry Wheels Williams discusses his journey in powerlifting, emphasizing the importance of resilience, communication, and mental preparation. He reflects on the setbacks he faced, particularly the feeling of bombing out of competitions, which ignited his determination to succeed. The dialogue explores how effective communication with coaches and teammates can enhance performance and the mental strategies that athletes can employ to prepare for competitions. You can find Larry on Instagram @larrywheels https://www.instagram.com/larry wheels You can find John on Instagram @gaglionestrength https://www.instagram.com/gaglionestrength/ All the info for the strict curl competition at Larry Wheels’ gym in California> https://meets.revolutionpowerlifting.com/2026/01/17/larry-wheels-west-coast-curl/ Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/! Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/ 50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. ____ Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts--5538735/support .

October 29, 2025Episode 4921 hr 17 min

Mission-driven Fitness | Guest Kevin Meier (@purebullfit)

In this conversation, Jim McDonald speaks with Kevin Meier, a former Marine, video game character, and fitness coach, about his journey from military service to the fitness industry. Kevin has survived and learned to cope with a devastating accidental injury. Through his employment at Blizzard Entertainment, he met someone who was critical to recovering his strength and physical capabilities. He also came to understand that he had to find a life mission and let it chart his path. They discuss the importance of community-driven fitness initiatives, the value of low-cost resources, and personal transformation stories. Kevin shares his experiences with mental health, PTSD, and the challenges of the fitness industry, emphasizing the need for critical thinking and authenticity. The conversation highlights the potential of future generations to challenge existing norms and create positive change in the fitness landscape. You can find Kevin on Instagram @pure_bullfit https://www.instagram.com/pure_bullfit Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Kevin's Journey 05:42 Community-Driven Fitness Initiatives 11:32 Military Experience and Its Impact 17:16 Finding Purpose Through Strength Training 23:57 The Importance of Authentic Connections 29:06 Reflections on Life and Relationships 38:47 Impact and Authenticity in Life 45:56 Transitioning to Coaching and Mentorship 54:48 Personal Accountability and Growth 01:00:35 Critique of the Fitness Industry 01:08:23 Future Generations and Critical Thinking Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/! Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/ 50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. ____ Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts--5538735/support .

October 22, 2025Episode 4911 hr 10 min

John Gaglione: The Evolution of Powerlifting Culture

John Gaglione joins to discuss the evolution of powerlifting, coaching philosophies, and the importance of community in strength training. They explore the challenges of weight loss expectations, the significance of performance goals, and the shift in training approaches over the years. John shares his experiences in bodybuilding and the impact it had on his powerlifting journey, while also emphasizing the need for realistic expectations in fitness. The discussion also touches on the rise of strict curl competitions and the accessibility of strength sports, highlighting the importance of making fitness enjoyable and sustainable for everyone. You can find John on Instagram @gaglionestrength https://www.instagram.com/gaglionestrength/ All the info for the strict curl competition at Larry Wheels’ gym in California> https://meets.revolutionpowerlifting.com/2026/01/17/larry-wheels-west-coast-curl/ Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/! Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/ 50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. ____ Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:02 Powerlifting Journey and Coaching Philosophy 05:55 Bodybuilding Experience and Personal Goals 10:06 Realistic Expectations in Weight Loss 13:51 Lifestyle Changes and Community Support 17:57 Training Culture and Powerlifting Evolution 21:35 The Role of Coaching in Powerlifting 27:50 Long-Term Goals and Consistency 36:36 The Importance of Realistic Coaching Expectations 39:38 The Dark Side of Bodybuilding Coaching 40:21 The Evolution of Powerlifting Training Methods 43:12 Long-Term Health in Strength Sports 45:47 The Balance Between Competition and Longevity 48:38 The Future of Strength Training and Coaching 50:40 The Rise of Strict Curl Competitions 01:06:26 Promoting Strength Sports Accessibility Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts--5538735/support .

October 1, 2025Episode 4901 hr 4 min

Comedian Nick Scopoletti

Comedian (and personal training manager) Nick Scopoletti returns to chat about growing his comedy career, working with Lisa Lampanelli, managing personal trainers, and how his personal warmth has been kind of a cheat code. You can find Nick on Instagram @nickscopes https://www.instagram.com/nickscopes/ and as Lisa Lampanelli’s sidekick on her podcast, Shrink This https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shrink-this-with-lisa-lampanelli/id1819746873 The AI generated summary In this engaging conversation, Jim McDonald and Nick Scopoletti explore themes of friendship, cynicism, personal growth, and the comedy journey. They reflect on their experiences in the fitness industry, the impact of COVID, and the importance of networking in the comedy scene. The discussion also touches on family dynamics, wealth, and the challenges of managing people in the workplace. Throughout the conversation, they share humorous anecdotes and insights, emphasizing the value of perseverance and self-discovery in both personal and professional realms. Chapters 00:00 Warm Connections and Cynical Reflections 03:05 The Comedy Journey: Struggles and Triumphs 05:50 Navigating Life's Changes: Comedy and Personal Growth 08:46 The Impact of COVID-19 on Mental Health 11:49 Family Dynamics and Personal Insights 14:38 The Reality of Working in the Fitness Industry 17:40 Acting, Comedy, and Authenticity 20:40 Nostalgia and Cultural Identity 23:26 Creative Outlets and Self-Expression 31:48 Expo Experiences and Bodybuilding Culture 35:44 Managing a Fitness Team 39:44 Clientele Development in Boutique Gyms 44:39 Wealth, Work Ethic, and Personal Growth 50:08 Networking and Social Media Surprises 55:58 Memorable Encounters with Icons Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts--5538735/support .

September 25, 2025Episode 4891 hr 15 min

Things that make dieting hard (plus some influencers who are getting it right)| Guest: Jerry Molinero

Jerry Molinero, one of our trainers here at Third Street Barbell, joins to talk about losing over 100 lbs and some of the habits, foods, and situations that make dieting harder. We also discuss a few influencers we think are getting it right on social media. You can find him on Instagram @jerrykilos https://www.instagram.com/jerrykilos Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com! Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/! Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/ 50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts--5538735/support .

September 17, 2025Episode 4881 hr 17 min

Navigating Parenthood and Performance | Guest: Jonathan Gregg

In this conversation, Jim McDonald and Jonathan Gregg explore a variety of themes, including parenting, the dynamics of living in New York City, the journey of performance and acting, mental health, and the impact of social media on personal identity. They discuss the importance of authenticity, the role of anger in society, and the significance of personal growth. The conversation also touches on fitness and the unique experiences of being a stay-at-home dad, as well as the cultural commentary that arises from their respective experiences. (Experimenting with AI-generated show notes on this one. No idea if it will make any difference in discoverability.) Jonathan is the only guest who has both been on this show and appeared in the MCU (Jessica Jones). Also, he's the only guest whose whole ass I've actually seen (HBO's High Maintenance, Season 2, Episode 1). He's super cool, and I could have kept talking to him a long time, but I'd already made him run late. You can catch Jonathan and his best friend, Tom on the No Homo Podcast -- Two best friends (one straight and one gay) riff on their daily lives, the insanity of current events, and what it means to be a man – gassing each other up while the world burns. (Jonathan is the straight one.) https://www.youtube.com/@NoHomoPodcastwJonathanandTom You can find him on Instagram @jgregg_jonathan and @nohomopod. Takeaways Learning how to learn is crucial for personal development. Anger often masks deeper emotions like sadness or fear. Parenting involves navigating societal norms and expectations. Mental health discussions should be normalized and destigmatized. Improv can teach valuable life skills like adaptability and listening. Social media can amplify voices but also create pressure for validation. Authenticity in content creation resonates more with audiences. Fitness can be a form of personal expression and growth. Cultural commentary is essential in understanding societal dynamics. Personal growth often comes from recognizing and addressing one's own flaws. Join our Discord for free at goodcompanydiscord.com! Check out our gym (Third Street Barbell) at ThirdStreetBarbell.com https://www.thirdstreetbarbell.com/! Check out our podcast website: 50percentfacts.com https://www.50percentfacts.com/ 50% Facts is a Spreaker Prime podcast on OCN – the Obscure Celebrity Network. ____ Hosted by Mike Farr (@silentmikke) https://www.instagram.com/silentmikke/ and Jim McDonald (@thejimmcd). https://www.instagram.com/thejimmcd/ Produced by Jim McDonald Production assistance by Sam McDonald and Sebastian Brambila. Theme by Aaron Moore. Show art by Joseph Manzo (@jmanzo523) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts--5538735/support .