Good thread. I think Phil's point is, the fundamental principles are always going to be the same, but how they are applied to the individual will vary.
And yes, no one wants to believe that genetics are always going to be a big factor, so they want someone, or something, to blame.
Here's a story about Phil that makes the point; and I don't think I ever even told it to him:
Back when Phil was training at World's in Vancouver, WA, this guy asked me: "When does Phil train himself?" "He just did," I replied. "Well, yes, he did a few sets, but I mean his real training." "That IS his real training," I said. "No, really; I mean, when does he do his whole routine?" "Well, you just saw his whole routine for legs," I said. "No I didn't..."
This went on and on. The guy simply refused to believe that a few very intense sets per bodypart several times a week could possibly be how Phil built that body. He actually got irate, and called me a liar! By this time, a number of guys were listening and snickering, waiting for me to blow my stack. Finally, I said: "Ask Phil next time you see him," and left.
I bet he did ask Phil too, and I'm sure he didn't believe him. He was probably coming in at all hours to try to "catch" Phil doing his real routine.
I don't know why people want it to be harder and more complicated than it is. Well, yes I do: because they want to believe that if they just put in enough labor, they can have any kind of body they want. No, we can't. Our potential was decided the moment dad's sperm hit mom's egg, and that is that. And how to fulfill that potential isn't infinitely complex either. It is just a matter of learning the principles, and figuring-in those individual factors that Phil listed above.
I've worked as a trainer now myself for many years, and the two things that hold most people back are A, lack of consistency, and B, lack of dietary discipline. And I have been as guilty as anyone, so I understand. It's damn hard! It goes against every instinct we have.
What I should have said to that guy was: "You want Phil's secret? Go watch what he eats all day. Then picture yourself doing exactly that, 365 days a year for the next ten years." The inability to eat strictly, and to be consitsent and logical in their training, is what defeats people.