No need to over think too much. Like you said just hitting protein is key. After that being consistent is usually the best go. I understand fluctuating carbs and fats when you think it’s needed.
I sort of prep as needed. I can get away with getting a little behind on prepping due to my job providing free meals. So typically I’m only spending about $25 a week and that’s all on chicken.
Diet planner definitely needs improvement. No bodybuilder in the world spaces out macros evenly. Pre workout is usually smaller for most and post workout is usually bigger. Joe himself definitely has his meals fluctuate lots.
I’m in peak bulk right now so I feel pretty fat and lazy haha so cardio no. I definitely should be, but I walk 8k-10k steps usually.
Split is: Push, lower 1, rest, pull, chest/arms, lower 2, rest.