The Energy Blueprint Podcast

In this episode, I’m speaking with nutrition expert Alex Leaf, someone you may remember from past episodes.  I’ve been lucky to work closely with Alex for the past few years—he’s a highly informed researcher and science writer, and he’s rare in the world of nutrition. He’s extremely scientifically literate and able to break through popular trends to provide practical and accurate interpretations of sometimes complicated research. I’m really excited for you to hear our latest conversation…we cover a lot of ground, including what the research says about weight loss and calories in/calories out, low-carb versus low-fat diets, the best diet for fat loss, how a low-protein diet affects life span, and, one topic I know you won’t want to miss; Alex’s opinion on a recent publication showing that time-restricted eating leads to a much higher risk of death from cardiovascular disease…is this true? To celebrate Alex’s appearance on the podcast, I’m offering The Fat Loss Blueprint for $200 off the regular price of $497. Alex and I collaborated on creating this program, and it’s an evidence-based, no gimmicks approach to very effective fat loss.  >> Click here to enroll in The Fat Loss Blueprint for only $297 with the code “Alex” at checkout.  

In this episode, I’m speaking with Brian Keane, Ireland’s top nutrition and exercise expert, who shares his hard-won experience with us on the best ways to move and eat for fat loss, moving and looking good as we get older, and how to have more energy every day. In this podcast, Brian and I discuss: Calories in/calories out versus hormone balancing—is one better than the other for fat loss?  If the ketogenic and carnivore diets are useful for people trying to lose weight Brian’s “fat loss prioritization pyramid” to help clients achieve their goals, and the surprising part of this plan that has nothing to do with nutrition!  The importance of your individual needs in any diet or exercise plan—every person is different, so what approach is right for you?  The best exercise strategies for fat loss, disease prevention, and increased energy…and how you can start incorporating these into your everyday life! Exercise pursuits that do NOT promote long term health but why they’re still valuable for some people Brian’s 2 top secret hacks for better performance, energy, and recovery  

In this episode, I’m speaking with Dr. Christiane Northrup, a board-certified OB/GYN physician, leading authority in the field of women’s health and wellness, and the New York Times best-selling author of Dodging Energy Vampires. In this podcast, Dr. Northrup and I discuss: The startling statistic that 1 in 5 people are energy vampires…individuals who steal your vibrancy, dim your light, and might be the hidden source of fatigue  Why menstrual problems, menopausal symptoms, or chronic pelvic pain might be related to your toxic relationships  The biochemical marker that becomes elevated when you’re dealing with an energy vampire in your life The links between sugar cravings, depression, and even immune dysfunction and living with a narcissist  The key difference between male and female energy vampires and the crucial aspects of your own personality you should be aware of to avoid getting drained Specific characteristics to be on the lookout for so you don’t get sucked into a narcissistic relationship 2 practical tools you can use to get out of a vampiric relationship!  

In this episode, I’m speaking with Dr. Tom O’Bryan about his upcoming docu-series, The Inflammation Equation: Decoding the Steps to Optimal Well-Being, why he believes inflammation is at the core of disease, and his approach to solving it.  >> Click here to gain access to The Inflammation Equation 7-part docuseries to go deeper into what inflammation truly is and exactly how to keep it in check for optimal, full-body health.

  In this episode, I’m excited to welcome Dr. Mel Hopper Koppelman back for the third time! Today, we continue our conversation on the overlooked importance of brain development but go on to explore heart rate variability (and how it can easily be misinterpreted), Polyvagal Theory, and her fascinating, physics-based thoughts on how our heart rate variability connects us to the universe! In this podcast, Dr. Mel and I discuss: An easy way to visualize brain development: the brainstem is the root that grows up into the trunk of our brain and branches off into the right and left hemispheres The underlying driver of illness for many people with chronic symptoms and why gut or immune health might continue to suffer if this isn’t addressed A clear, easy-to-understand explanation of heart rate variability and why this often-misinterpreted marker is crucial for vital health The 10-second at-home test Dr. Mel recommends to better understand your heart rate variability findings AND the functioning of your vagus nerve! Her physics-backed belief that our heart rate variability connects us to the “breath” or wave of the universe…and how this connection (or lack of connection!) relates to the vagus nerve, inflammation, nervous system development, and long-term health 2 major predictors of mortality, i.e., how long you will live and the interesting pattern often found in people with autism The extreme importance of working with the body and tracking test results versus cleverly attempting to biohack or manipulate the body with supplements or drugs   

In this episode, I’m back with Dr. Mel Hopper Koppelman, discussing what she believes is one of the most important and overlooked areas in health—how brain development in childhood might be at the root of the health problems you’re experiencing as an adult. You’ll likely have some ‘aha!’ moments (maybe big ones) while listening to the podcast.  In this podcast, Dr. Mel and I discuss:   The fascinating fact that we actually have 2 brains…and how brain imbalances impact your immune system and overall health How evolution led to our specialized, complex brain design and the main purposes it serves Myths debunked: The misunderstood idea that the left brain controls math and logic and the right brain controls creativity, and whether it’s true that we only use 10% of our brain  The overlooked brain imbalance called “functional disconnection” and why this might be at the root of health problems such as autism, ADHD, gut dysfunction, autoimmunity, dyslexia, depression, anxiety, or even chronic infections  The surprisingly easy-to-test primitive reflexes (that start in the womb!) and how they’re connected to chronic disease  Could you have an immature brain stem? Dr. Mel tells us the symptoms that let you know AND how to address this issue Why some popular health solutions might actually make you worse based on the specific brain imbalance you’re experiencing  How brain imbalance can lead to changes in blood tests, such as low white blood cell count Practical ways you can assess if you have an imbalanced brain, accounting for your particular skills, health history, and childhood experiences The important distinction between pathologizing neurodiversity vs. helping those who wish to improve their brain’s functionality in certain areas The liberating knowledge that our brains are malleable and trainable, and we can heal even longstanding brain-related issues!    

In this episode, I’m speaking with Patrick McKeown, author of The Oxygen Advantage, who shares his amazing expertise on the breathing habits you need to know to reduce stress and anxiety, raise your energy levels, and boost performance…and they’re NOT what you expect! I’m also incredibly excited to share that I’ve partnered with Patrick to offer a one-of-its-kind Breathing for Energy program, the ONLY course available that teaches you how to use your breath to battle low energy, brain fog, depression, and chronic anxiety. Save $200 on this revolutionary course when you order today!  In this podcast, Patrick and I discuss: The negative impact modern life has on our breathing patterns and why just 24 hours of stress or being sedentary can shift us out of optimal breathing habits Why the popular advice of “just take a deep breath!” might be the worst thing you can do for your physical and mental health! The “oxygen paradox” and the extreme importance of a balance between oxygen and carbon dioxide…and how to achieve this health-enhancing equilibrium The nearly unbelievable role of carbon dioxide in getting oxygen into your cells and how it’s not the waste product you think it is The fascinating interplay between stress and breathing…stress affects your breathing, but did you know the way you breathe affects your levels of stress? A practical, easy-to-use tool that takes less than 1 minute to track your breathing patterns and if they’re leading to health or fatigue and disease How sleep apnea, grinding your teeth at night, and waking up exhausted are connected to your breathing patterns…and how to stop these problems for good!  2 specific breathing tips for people with chronic fatigue How most yoga, pilates, and stress counselors are not teaching you the right way 

In this episode, I’m speaking with Dr. Jason Hawrelak, world-renowned microbiome expert, gastrointestinal specialist, and author of over 60 research papers dedicated to gut health. He is, in my opinion, one of the foremost gut/microbiome experts on the planet. So this is a MUST-listen. In this podcast, Dr. Hawrelak and I discuss: The invisible but highly active “organ” that affects everything from mitochondrial function to our nervous system to cancer treatment outcomes The truth behind microbiome testing and what to know before you get your results 3 primary connections between your microbiome and mitochondria  The mitochondrial poison some people produce in their own GI tract connected to Alzheimer’s, blood sugar dysregulation, and neurotransmitter imbalance 2 GI and mitochondrial-damaging substances that most Americans consume every day The crucial short-chain fatty acid created by your microbiome that feeds your colon…and your mitochondria  

In this episode, I’m speaking with Barton Scott about the powerful role of minerals in human health.

In this episode, I’m speaking with Dr. Christopher Pickard, a hypertension expert with decades of expertise studying nutrition and lifestyle on how to get your blood pressure back down into the healthy range. In this podcast, Dr. Pickard and I discuss: The link between high blood pressure and the risk of dying from COVID-19…and how Dr. Pickard is using this knowledge to help his patients What high blood pressure is actually trying to tell you—it’s not a disease; it’s a warning sign of something more 3 unexpected causes for hypertension and the problem with simply “fixing it” with a pill 7 practical ways you can start addressing high blood pressure NOW  Why breathing through your nose (versus your mouth) might be the missing piece to solving some people’s hypertension One amazingly simple step you can take to increase nitric oxide (and decrease blood pressure!) Learn the best fruit to eat to support healthy blood pressure levels!  

In this episode, I’m speaking with Rome Za, a movement specialist, Jiu-Jitsu athlete, father, and founder of the Rome Za method, a breathwork-based way to transform your nervous system. In this podcast, Rome and I discuss: His fascinating and sometimes very intense childhood, including an early brush with death  The one factor we should focus on for nervous system healing before supplements or even diet Rome’s vast experience coaching people and the recurrent issue he’s seen in over 4,000 coaching clients 2 nervous system assaults you should be keenly aware of and how to address both for a calm, centered life The importance of non-traditional strength movements that lead to vitality, resilience, and longevity 3 core insights you can apply to your own life to support and steady your nervous system

In this episode, I’m speaking with Dr. Keesha Ewers, a trauma-informed therapist who shares her deeply personal story that led to a life of self-transformation, education, and the mind-mitochondria connection. In this podcast, Dr. Keesha and I discuss: The life-changing differences between PTSD and post-traumatic growth…and how to skew your experiences toward growth versus stress Current problems with plant medicine and the significant step this trend is missing The toxic mistake you might be making (and passing on to your kids) that’s holding you back from healthy cognitive and emotional capabilities The missing step of limbic system retraining that everyone’s missing! The indisputable connection between your mind, emotions, and mitochondrial function…and a practical step to take you from muck to unstuck

In this episode, I’m speaking with Eric D. Gordon, MD, a clinician with over 40 years of experience working with and deeply listening to patients with complex, chronic illnesses…and one of my favorite podcast guests. In this podcast, Dr. Gordon and I discuss: The fascinating history of alternative medicine trends and how this knowledge helps you make healthier choices today Major aspects of your health that functional medicine might be missing How to tell when supplements, diet, and lifestyle aren’t enough…and what to do instead The real reason behind chronic fatigue and a new perspective that will break you out of long-term illness The beautiful intelligence of the body and why symptoms serve a crucial purpose Why chronic illness is different from other diseases, and the simple mindset shift that allows your body to feel safe and heal

In this episode, I’m speaking with Dr. Mel Hopper Koppelman about her powerful and unique view of medicine, a context that I believe is much more effective than the conventional or even functional medical models we’re used to.  I’m really excited to share this episode with you; Dr. Mel and I had a fantastic conversation that, if practically applied, points us in a new and much more effective direction for building true health. In this podcast, Dr. Mel and I discuss: How some scientists and clinicians get stuck in the “biochemical weeds” instead of working from a bigger, more accurate picture of health, aka, first principles thinking The 2 ways we can view lab tests (blood, stool, hormone, or even organic acid tests) and why most practitioners—even functional practitioners—get it WRONG! Why even a “good” result on a blood test might not mean much for your quality or length of life! Her favorite tool to practically address health imbalances and disease that fits perfectly into a big-picture paradigm The 2 metabolic classifications Dr. Mel uses to help her patients based on her deep knowledge of traditional Chinese medicine…and why other medical models aren’t able to help people with chronic fatigue and similar symptoms  

In this episode, I’m speaking with Ariel Garten, a neuroscientist, artist, and entrepreneur who revolutionized the world of meditation with her award-winning Muse headband, a brain-sensing device praised by everyone from the Mayo Clinic to NASA!

In this episode, I’m speaking with Kelly McCann, MD, a functional medicine doctor who has lectured all over the world on commonly overlooked causes of chronic illness, such as mold and mycotoxins, Lyme and associated infections, environmental medicine, and the topic of our podcast, mast cell activation, which, surprisingly, may affect up to 25% of people!

In this episode, I’m speaking with gut health researcher, clinician, professor, and expert to the experts, Dr. Jason Hawrelak about his life-changing knowledge on the best ways to care for your gut. Dr. Hawrelak is the most well-informed (and humble!) gut specialist I’ve ever spoken with, and I’m so lucky he was my professor in graduate school. You don’t want to miss this episode! In this podcast, Dr. Hawrelak and I discuss: A major probiotic myth that Dr. Hawrelak has been trying to bust for over 20 years and why you might be wasting your time (and money!) on probiotics that aren’t right for you 3 fascinating ways your gut health is connected to your energy levels (or LACK of energy!) The 1 gut problem you should be aware of that can lead to weight gain, insulin resistance, autoimmunity, brain fog, and even Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive decline The connection between your microbiome, dietary fiber, and…brain health! The amazing effects of prebiotics and when to use prebiotics versus probiotics  Dangers of the Carnivore Diet trend and why your gut, microbial, and system-wide health might suffer long-term Dr. Hawrelak’s top 3 gut health tips…including one I didn’t expect!  

In this episode, I’m speaking with oral health expert, author, and founder of Primal Life Organics, Trina Felber. Trina’s mission is to eliminate toxic, polluting ingredients from body care products and offer healing, sustainable alternatives.   In this podcast, Trina and I discuss: The amazing story of how her young daughter’s oral health issues—a cavity that formed in utero!—led Trina to focus on dental health The importance and maintenance of the oral microbiome…good bugs should be in your gut AND your mouth, but how do you avoid oral “antibiotics” found in mainstream products? Why gut and dental health are closely related to inflammation and cardiovascular disease, and the link most dentists overlook 3 major tips you need to choose dental health products that heal versus degrade your teeth and gums Fluoride, glycerin, sodium lauryl sulfate, and other ingredients commonly found in conventional oral health products…are they toxic or not? The roles of both red and blue light therapy in tooth remineralization, gum healing (yes, it’s 100% possible!), and reducing oral inflammation

In this fascinating episode, I’m speaking with inventor and researcher Alex Tarnava, who developed the first effective-dose molecular hydrogen supplement to address a crippling mystery illness that suddenly destroyed his once highly active life. Our conversation reveals how initially skeptical we both were about the effectiveness of molecular hydrogen! While I’m extremely excited to offer Molecular Hydrogen, now available on the new Human Optimization site, it took me over 10 years, hundreds of research studies, and eventually experiencing the benefits myself to become a believer and trust the effects enough to offer this unique compound to you.