RIP Doug!! Im saddened to write this, but sadly Doug passed away recently according to his wife's Instagram account. Being a addict myself, clean ror 13 years now, Dougs story really spoke to me! He helped me with some training tips over Facebook! Please keep his friends and family in your prayers!!

Despite some negative stereotypes, a lot of bodybuilders are down-to-earth dudes that are kind and gentle.

I saw Doug at 6am everyday at Golds for over a decade. He was a light, always helping others be their best selves. God bless him. Rest in Peace Doug. 🙏🏽🕊️

This guy's self awareness and overall maturity is incredible. You can tell he's done a lot of self reflection, he's able to talk about himself and his good and bad characteristics in a very articulate way! Bravo dude!

As a former drug addict and gym nut; this guy’s story spoke to me. “Finding out that I could have control over one thing in my life.” That was so true

Rest in peace, Doug, thanks for your honesty

This is a solid dude, man. When he said he still thinks about his dad every day, THAT is so real.......I shed a tear when he said that...... You can tell he has done a lot of work on his own. He knows the lingo of self help and therapy.

Started working out at Gold's top of the year. Doug couldn't have been a kinder guy. Nicest dude ever, and super empathetic. A true loss for the gym . Great guy. Rest in peace Doug.

As a gym owner going thru COVID and all the ups and downs of owning a business. I got back into bodybuilding in my 40s because it was the only thing I could control: what I ate and training. I won my pro card in 2022. Thanks for posting this vid

I can tell that this man wanted to be a writer, he’s really well spoken.

Love how articulate he is! Incredible interview, story, and person! 🏋‍♂️

He was a trainer at Power House Gym in Torrance. This guy is super cool, always helpful to not just his clients but to everyone in the gym super positive attitude brings something special to gym. Thanks Doug you’re fuckin awesome homie

I like seeing people on SWU who get out of their predicament and step up to be somebody better. Well done, Doug!

Years ago a new guy turned up at our gym. He’d just quit amphetamines cold turkey after a longterm addiction. I have never in my life seen someone work so hard and get so strong in so little time. Was great to see him channel his energy and addictive personality into fitness and strength.

I know Doug from my 5 years training at Golds Venice. One of the nicest, hard working dudes you'll ever meet. I wish him nothing but happiness and success

So glad you recorded this before his passing. I’m shook by this news. Such a wonderful genuine guy.

So much respect for this man. So content in life. Very well spoken and aware of life. Great story, really really enjoyed this.

What a loss. It’s unbelievable, what an amazing soul. So glad we have this interview, his words will speak to so many people and will surely save lives. Rest in peace handsome.

Doug Fruchey , he's been competing a lot this past year

I also got into lifting because it felt like everything in my life was going wrong and out of my control. I began to look and feel strong. I started to gain a sense of calm and confidence. It was (and still is 25 years later) a spiritual journey. People who think that bodybuilding is all about vanity (people like my father) do not understand that it goes much, much deeper than just wanting to achieve a certain appearance. Doug articulated that very very and I'm glad he did. Great interview.

A breath of fresh air, more of this please Mark 😁

As a friend of several personal trainers/body builders, I agree with Doug that he gets a lot of attention- good and bad. I find people who are this focused on their health are the most kindest and compassionate. Another great interview!

I'm not a bodybuilder, but I struggled with alcohol addiction on and off since I was 19 (currently 26) and the gym has always helped. I had a teacher in highschool with the same birthday as me that told me he was a meth addict when he was a teen. Same thing, dude was in the gym everyday. It's like when you self destruct for so many years, you wanna learn how to improve yourself. You certainly don't have to be a recovering addict to wanna self improve, but it's usually the people with a real self destructive background that tend to go into the extreme with it cause they're doing their best not to go back

I have no idea why but this was one of my favourite episodes of SWU. I feel like I could have listened to him talk for another hour easily. Doug you have a great attitude and I respect that you take ownership over your struggles and weaknesses, and also your successes. Best of luck to you good sir.

He is so well spoken! I enjoy the fact that the videos Mark puts out cover all walks of life. Your work is amazing, Mark!

This guy has an unbelievable level of depth, honesty, sensitivity, introspection, dialectics... outstanding

Wise beyond your years, Doug. You can really see the amount of inward healing this man has done. He unlocked life, so it's on to the next one for him. RIP Doug

Doug thank you for this. You put into words what I have tried to explain to people for years. Bodybuilding is my passion and our motivations are quite the same. I am a long time fan of SWU and this is by far one of my favorite episodes. This man's emotional maturity and intelligence is inspiring to say the least. So many comments made here that needs to be heard.

As a Bodybuilder myself, I'm glad you're not portraying us as dumb meatheads and Steroid addicts. Bodybuilding saved my life too.

At last, someone being open and honest about actually enjoying being a bodybuilder, and embracing all that goes with it. Great interview, great guy!

As a recovering addict myself living in Albuquerque, this hit home for me BIG TIME. Thank you Mark & Doug!

As a powerlifter and avid gym goer this was a breath of fresh air

as a women who has dated a lot of body builders, you have missed the conversation about how roids ruin their hormones. ED was a major issue in some relationships I had. Also, one of them is having to take kidney medication due to kidney failure. Taking steroids isn't all fun and games. Its an addiction to the "look" of it all. You get a lot of women bc of it, you get attention bc of it- but it's superificial. It can create a lot of issues within your intimate relationships- the ones worth having. And most likely you will suffer an early death bc of it. I've had to rush my 34 year old ex to the ER for issues that stem from steroids. It's not a topic talked about enough. It's an addiction like anything else but isn't exposed in the same light as your typical alcohol/narcs. He's making light of it, as they all do, bc hes happy with his decision. But, once his over sized heart decides it's his last day here, it's lights out. He thinks bc he can go to the gym and lift a lot, that hes invincible- and that's an immature stance. Taking these drugs will eventually be the cause of an early death, as good as they have and will continue to make you feel. I have injected my ex and hes had to cough and stick his head in the freezer until it passes. What the hell is that? This interview didn't dive deep into the reality of steroids, it is promoting this drug to everyone without being real about the consequences of it.

Very open and honest in this interview RIP

Came here as I just heard this lovely genuine man just passed, such a loss at a young age very sad in every way, RIP brother you will be greatly missed.

Wow, this guy was smart, well spoken and man does he tell a great story. So glad to hear the positive vibes Doug!

Thanks for having this guy on Mark.. I have been clean three years and I lift weights daily. This was an inspiration and spoke to me. Thank you.

As an amateur bodybuilder and as someone who coaches bodybuilders, the amount of wisdom in this interview is stellar. Your rule, Doug.

These interviews hit different when the person passes away. Especially at such a young age. Health is wealth. RIP Doug

This is one of the best podcasts I have ever seen. This guy is highly intelligent and his story completely resonated with me. Well done. Thank you so much for this.

I could listen to this guy all day.

God bless you brother! Your mental, emotional, spiritual and even physical strength has moved me! Your story and your outcome is absolutely remarkable! Continue your journey! I’m praying that you win that mr.Olympia soon!

as a father of 2 boys, this one really stuck with me. thank you both.

Every time I assume that I am special and my circumstances are unique I find folks like Doug. I’m 36 was a shit head when young joined army at 17. Didn’t get kicked out but once I finally did ETS I got on drugs probation jail etc. I found bodybuilding this year and it has been life changing. Thanks for your story man and good luck.

The arrested development he talks about with getting into drugs is 100% true. I’m 38, and after getting sober for several years now since I was 13, all the sudden I’m realizing I actually have no idea who I am and it’s fascinating and scary at the same time to learn more about my true self.

The honesty in his answers resonates with me. As he described his reasons for bodybuilding, a mirror of my younger self began to form from 12-38 years old. Many times, the gym was all I had to look forward to. Great interview.

I like this guy. very down to earth, very honest.

This is a great interview, when a massive bodybuilder talks vulnerability, recovery, and displays very positive masculinity … I can only applaud. Sure I wouldn’t do steroids or eat 8,000 calories a day but it’s his choice and he owns up to it all. Much respect.

My name is also Doug and bodybuilding changed my life when I was young. I never took steroids so my career was limited there. Bodybuilding built a foundation for life for me.

Gotta respect this man and his integrity. Dude is a HULK and HONEST Man. He's the "Honest Hulk" and best wishes to him. Hellva physique! 👊

It's so uplifting seeing people doing what they are passionate about. This man has had ups and downs in his life, like many of us, and has found a way to channel the negatives into a positive. I agree with him too, its about the journey not the destination.

As a life long lifter this guy is a breath of fresh air! Honest and HUMBLE as most true BB'ers are! Weight lifters are some of the nicest guys you will ever meet! Weights are the ultimate discipline and out let for positive mental health for many many people! It is a shame many are too intimidated or just don't have the drive to exercise and resistance train! It can make you a better person in many ways!

Hopping onto Marks channel is like Christmas morning every day. It never ceases to amaze me the kind of people Mark finds to interview…well done

RIP Doug, met him a couple of years ago at Golds Venice and he couldn't have been any nicer. Great man, GOD Bless him and his family

As someone who lost a brother to addiction, I love hearing about people that beat it.

Another gem of an interview - Mark, it was so wonderful to watch you resonate with this incredible man’s story. More like this please!

I admire Doug, because he knew he had to change his life to a more, positive and disciplined existence, where obviously he found his nitch as a successful, body builder, and is in a much better mind set. Now he's a mentor/trainor, and speaks with honesty, about his journey, and how he rose above his, problem filled young life. He seems like a great guy, and I wish him all the best, in his future life experiences. 👍💪🧡🏋️☮️🙏

RIP Doug, you were an inspiration to so many people.

This is one of the most down to earth dudes I’ve ever seen. Have him back again!

I already respected Doug for his strength, physique and humility. But knowing where he came from gives me even more appreciation for him.

As someone who’s been bodybuilding on and off for 15 years. He speaks the truth. Best of luck. Brothers in iron

Seemed like such a good guy. Sincere. Passionate. Rip man.

Great chat. Honored to have been friends with Big Doug, and interviewed him on my pod in 2020. May you live forever, brother. #bethetide

This guy's understanding of his hero's journey and ability to articulate it is really cool to watch. Thanks for the content!

What a great interview. Doug is well spoken and very relatable

This man is definitely a good person and self made. Hard to find people like this nowadays. Good job brother.

I’m just adding to the comments that say what a great interview this was. Doug has clearly battled his demons, faced them head on and come out victorious the other side. Bravo!!!

Tons of respect for this guy. He is so self aware and you can see that he has done an amazing job coming from he where he was to where he is today. Really enjoyed hearing his story.

2 min in and I can relate so much to this guy. Bodybuilding/ fitness is one of the only areas of anyone’s life that you truly have control in. There’s so much you don’t have control of in life.. it’s a wonderful outlet to have

This guy would’ve been 10 times better if he had a dad through his life. Dads are important folks!

Most of these videos trigger a lot of sympathy and empathy. This one is a monster motivator. Maybe the most positive video I’ve seen on this channel

Hey Mark, it would be cool to hear from people with long term sobriety. People who have recovered from drugs and alcohol for 10, 20, 30 yrs.

The glossing-over of significant side effects of PEDs used in bodybuilding, including early death, surprised me in this interview.

I just heard Doug passed away. He seemed like a really smart good dude.

Doug, your message was so inspiring. So self aware but more importantly so articulate and analytical about your journey. Very inspiring.

Thanks for the motivation Doug: I've been bodybuilding over 10 years and the aspects have been a blessing, I'm not over 200 lbs because I've been lean and tall my whole life. I do have my own elaborate gym at home and I would love to sculpt but I have a lot of other responsibilities that need me. Life long though! Can't wait to see when I'm 90 and still lifting...God willing.

Love this guy, good for him for finding what he loves and forging a very positive life for himself. Seems like such a kind intelligent person.

As a fellow bodybuilder, I enjoyed watching this. I appreciate the range of people you interview.

This might have been my favorite SWU interview yet. Its nice to not hear such tragic stories all the time.

This guys the man. Mark really built something special out of this channel over the years

This video makes a nice change. Good to see people who've "turned their life around" 👍❤

Steroids can kill you as quickly as meth, crack and heroin. Jo Lindner just died at age 30. It is not straightforward to monitor your metrics and be a healthy bodybuilder on steroids. This lifestyle is not about optimal health and takes years off your lifespan and healthspan. This was a missed opportunity to have a more difficult and more honest conversation.

So articulate, down to earth. Loved this interview.

You’re spot on mark, the gym is my new addiction. It’s something we can do everyday that makes us feel and doesn’t ruin our lives.

Most relatable interview so far. I can totally relate with this guy 100%

This is a really cool guy. He is the type of person that can really reach someone troubled and lost because he has been there. Awesome interview.

I've seen Doug a number of times in the gym and spoke to him. Very genuine and hard working guy. I like how he surmounted his personal challenges and remains accountable for his choices early in life. Lift hard and stay hungry Doug!!

He’s such a kind man and doing good things for himself and that’s motivating

Wow. I played it twice and each time heard various motivational phrases. Thank you Doug. This channel really helps my depression.

As a young, aspiring bodybuilder, I love Doug's story and journey. Very Inspirational. We all face trials but having something constructive like the gym to let go, strive and control yourself is something I wish every human can experience.

Awesome interview. Authentic guy. His clients are blessed to have his mentoring. God Bless him!

To mark and Doug I read the comments and I agree this spoke to me as well ! I would say & agree mark with your other commenters please more of this style of interview! You’ve shown us the bad & ugly & some good , but this was really uplifting to see this kind of good! I take my hat off to you Doug for having the courage to share with us your entire story ! You didn’t have to mention anything about your drug an jail past and no one would have suspected otherwise. But you chose too and for that you have enlightened people’s minds on both sides of the spectrum and showed everyone how no matter how deep in the hole you are or how high up the commonwealth ladder you are at anytime things can go array to one direction or the other , so as you said & I agree absolutely that maintaining that schedule & regimen & daily balance is key to long term success in life and all our endeavors so thank you for inspiration ! And to mark, where to start you’ve shown me so much of different things that are out there where to a point I can in a way relate to each individual experience! I can’t explain the gratitude I have towards you mark for helping me understand some of my personal demons in which I believe everyone has them in one way or the other but also more importantly I sincerely thank you for the knowledge and an avenue in a way to deal with certain things ! Every day is a struggle but you have to keep moving forward trying your best and staying positive so again, Mark thank you !

Absolute gentle giant. I see myself in you brother, thank you for sharing 💪🏽

Guy has a great heart!! I loved this. Refreshing to see how articulate and just overall happy he seemed!

I had a similar up bringing to Doug and Boxing was the outlet that saved me and gave me purpose. Everything he says about bodybuilding I can replace with boxing; the discipline, the love of training, the constant desire to be preparing your body and mind for the craft. When I first started my training/obsession in boxing, I read a book called "Muscle" about a Harvard grad and journalist who wrote a book about his journey/obsession into bodybbuilding. The objective is totally different, but there are so many parallels in boxing training and bodybuilding. It's a love/hate relationship and there are so many good reasons not to do it, but it's a labor of love and all the sacrifices are worth it. I like this dude-he has a grip on his reality.

As a fellow bodybuilder, this was great to watch. Thank you for the variety of individuals you interview!

This guy is pretty damn amazing. Very articulate, inspiring and 100% genuine. Love to see it.

Something to keep in mind: its not super uncommon for ex drug addicts to become bodybuilders, for it fills that crave for substances that makes you feel amazing, confident and powerful. It can be a savior, but the amount of gear this dude is using is gonna kill him. This is not really living "without the drugs", its just switching from one set of drugs to another.

Rest in peace, Doug💔

The big gym guys are the nicest - I was entering my gym today and a big muscle guy was coming out - I had never seen him before, but he acknowledged me with a friendly nod (I consider myself a small muscle guy, on year two of my journey and appreciated this guy's kindness).