Kai Greene Reflects on Addiction, Comeback Plans & Phil Heath | The Kai Greene Effect
In the debut episode of The Kai Greene Effect podcast, legendary bodybuilder Kai Greene delves into a range of compelling topics, including his highly anticipated 2025 business expansion, the possibility of his return to the competitive stage, and his past struggles with addiction. Most notably, Greene teases whether longtime rival Phil Heath might factor into his comeback plans while also opening up about his unexpected past addiction—to ice cream.
Key Discussion Points from the Podcast
The launch of Kai Greene’s supplement company, Pro Am
Why Kai’s return to the competitive stage is “more than a possibility”
Kai’s perspective on rising bodybuilding star Sam Sulek turning pro
How Kai overcame his unusual addiction to ice cream
Pro Am Unveiled at the 2025 Arnold Classic
At the 2025 Arnold Classic, Kai Greene, alongside co-owners Eduardo and Angelica Teixeira, officially launched Pro Am, a supplement company designed to fuse classic bodybuilding principles with cutting-edge sports nutrition science. With a collective 20+ years of experience in the industry, their mission is to serve both elite athletes and everyday fitness enthusiasts looking to maximize their potential.
The launch was met with enthusiasm, as bodybuilding fans packed Booth 609 to sample products and meet the team. Kai expressed immense gratitude for the support, describing the experience as humbling. For him, transitioning from world-class athlete to entrepreneur is a new but fulfilling challenge, as he now influences the sport from a business and mentorship perspective rather than just from the posing stage.
Is Kai Greene’s Return to Bodybuilding Inevitable?
The question of whether Kai will return to professional bodybuilding remains a hot topic among fans. At the Arnold Expo, countless attendees pressed him for answers about a potential comeback. Greene acknowledged that the intensity of competition prep is both grueling and rewarding but emphasized that, for him, the journey itself holds more significance than the final placement on stage.
When addressing the possibility of a showdown with seven-time Mr. Olympia Phil Heath, Kai played it coy, dismissing the idea as unlikely. He quipped, “Phil don’t want no smoke,” suggesting that any playful banter between them is more for entertainment than a serious rivalry. While he respects Heath’s accomplishments, Greene seems more focused on his own evolution than rekindling past battles.
Business partner and Pro Am co-owner Eduardo expressed his desire to see Kai back on stage, recognizing the massive impact it would have on the sport and their brand. When asked about competing in the Masters Olympia, Kai reflected on the division’s historical purpose—giving seasoned veterans a chance to claim an Olympia title. While he stopped short of confirming his participation, he did affirm that stepping back on stage is “definitely more than a possibility,” keeping hope alive for his legion of supporters.
Pro Am’s Vision and the Art of Athlete Selection
Eduardo elaborated on Pro Am’s core values, explaining that the brand is built on authenticity, science-backed formulations, and a genuine connection with the fitness community. Rather than rushing to sign a large roster of athletes, the company is focused on carefully selecting ambassadors who truly embody its mission.
One such signing is Angelica Teixeira, a testament to discipline and perseverance. Despite balancing competition prep with motherhood, she has remained a fierce competitor. Her relentless drive aligns perfectly with Pro Am’s philosophy of merging hardcore dedication with a sustainable fitness lifestyle.
Sam Sulek’s Rise to the Pro Ranks
Kai Greene took a moment to acknowledge Sam Sulek’s recent achievement—earning his IFBB pro card. While the sheer volume of pro cards awarded annually has increased, Kai emphasized that competing at an event like the Arnold Amateur still carries significant weight. He applauded Sulek’s decision to test himself on such a prestigious stage, recognizing that with notoriety comes heightened scrutiny. Greene respects Sulek’s willingness to step outside his comfort zone in pursuit of greatness.
Staying Relevant in the Ever-Evolving Bodybuilding Landscape
A major theme throughout the podcast was longevity—how athletes can maintain relevance beyond their competitive years. Greene attributes his sustained popularity to relentless self-improvement and the willingness to embrace new challenges. Whether in business, media, or mentorship, he has adapted to each phase of his career, ensuring his influence remains strong within the bodybuilding industry.
The Ice Cream Obsession—Kai’s Past Addiction
In one of the more surprising moments of the podcast, Kai Greene candidly admitted to struggling with an addiction—not to alcohol or substances, but to ice cream. He recalled a formative moment with bodybuilding veteran Mike McCloud, whose razor-sharp conditioning and self-control left an impression on him. Watching McCloud enjoy a small serving of ice cream without derailing his physique made Kai realize that discipline is the true key to success in bodybuilding. This revelation helped him curb his overindulgence and maintain the level of conditioning required to be an elite competitor.
Closing Thoughts
The Kai Greene Effect podcast offers a deep dive into the mind of one of bodybuilding’s most captivating figures. From launching Pro Am and shaping the future of sports supplementation to teasing a potential return to the stage, Greene continues to inspire athletes of all levels. His reflections on personal growth, discipline, and adaptation serve as a testament to his lasting impact on the bodybuilding world. Whether or not he returns to competition, one thing is certain—Kai Greene’s influence in fitness is far from over.
