In this episode, Sal, Adam & Justin speak with investigative journalist and New York Times best selling author David Epstein about, nature, nurture, and athletic performance. The Sports Gene: A story of tragedy sparked by an interest in genetics. (1:51) Why are certain populations over misrepresented in sports? (3:37) Why he was more backwards than getting it right researching for his new book. (6:21) The generalization of skills. (9:38) When is the perfect time for specialization? (14:28) How would he mold his perfect athlete? (17:10) Why he believes athletes now are at a drug disadvantage. (22:36) How technological innovations have made a HUGE impact on the elite level in sports. (24:14) The democratization of sports. (28:13) How much of a role do steroids play in professional sports? (30:59) Comparing the impact of anabolic steroids, human growth hormone, and erythropoietin (EPO). (36:10) The story behind his breakout investigation of Alex Rodriguez testing positive for steroids. (39:40) His personal beliefs on athletes using performance-enhancing drugs. (43:50) Should transgender athletes be allowed to compete or not? (49:45) The current research he finds interesting. (52:40) Are we jumping the gun on new drugs? (55:07) What will be the next big technological leap in sports? (59:47) Has his attitude changed towards blood doping in sports? (1:06:07) Featured Guest/People Mentioned Dave Epstein (@GrowingWisdom) Twitter David Epstein Website Serena Williams (@serenawilliams) Instagram Venus Williams (@venuswilliams) Instagram Simone Biles (@simonebiles) Instagram Michael Phelps (@m_phelps00) Instagram Related Links/Products Mentioned July Promotion: MAPS HIIT and the No BS 6-Pack Formula 50% off! **Promo code “JULYSPECIAL” at checkout** Visit Felix Gray for an exclusive offer for Mind Pump listeners! David Epstein: Are athletes really getting faster, better, stronger? The Sports Gene: Inside the Science of Extraordinary Athletic Performance The Campus - Judy Murray Tennis Camps Jesse Owens - Wikipedia Big Bang of Body Types: Sports Science at the Olympics and beyond Report: Alex Rodriguez Tested Positive for Steroids in 2003 The Grasshopper: Games, Life and Utopia Joanna Harper on the Performance of Transgender Athletes Do transgender athletes have an edge? I sure don’t. The ONLY Way You Should Be Doing Dumbbell Bicep Curls! - Mind Pump TV What is Bully Whippet Syndrome? Mind Pump Podcast – YouTube Mind Pump Free Resources

Ask this episode

“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.