Uploaded February 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago

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In this clip, Ron Partlow shares why he believes Rich Piana was bodybuilding’s first true influencer.
Before modern fitness influencers and brand deals took over social media, Rich was building a massive audience by being unapologetically himself — connecting directly with fans and changing how bodybuilding personalities interacted with the world.
This is a look at how influencer culture really started in bodybuilding.
Do you agree that Rich paved the way?
#RichPiana #BodybuildingHistory #FitnessInfluencer #GoldenEraToNow #RonPartlow #ScottMcNally #BodybuildingPodcast #FitnessCulture