Episodes

  • Episode 352: Dr. Dan Pardi on Stem Cells, Supplements, and the Future of Health with Qualia

    Episode 352: Dr. Dan Pardi on Stem Cells, Supplements, and the Future of Health with Qualia
    Nov 3 2025
    In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I sit down with my good friend Dr. Dan Pardi for a deep dive into all things health, longevity, and cognitive performance. We get into the science of stem cells and aging, the real benefits (and limits) of popular supplements, and how nootropics like Ritalin and Modafinil actually work—or don’t—in the real world.We also talk about how to integrate training and movement into insanely busy lives, the psychology of health behavior, and why being flexible in your approach (not just in your hamstrings) is key to long-term success.This episode is brought to you by Quaia Life, where Dan’s doing some fascinating work on cutting-edge supplements designed to optimize health and performance. They’re offering listeners 15% off their products, which you can grab through the link in the show notes.If you want a mix of actionable tips, science-backed insights, and a peek behind the curtain of how top researchers think about performance and aging, you’ll definitely want to tune in.Sponsors:Daily Fitness Insider Newsletter: https://flex-diet.kit.com/bfa1510fa8Qualia: https://qualialife.com/drmike15Coupon Code: DRMIKE15 (listeners get an additional 15% off any Qualia order)Available now:Grab a copy of the Triphasic Training II book I co-wrote with Cal Deitz here.Episode Chapters:01:51 Science Communication and Cognitive Performance02:43 Sponsorship and Product Endorsement04:54 The Importance of Flexibility in Training06:39 Integrative and Opportunistic Training15:50 The Psychology of Health and Performance24:12 Quality of Life and Nootropics31:12 Understanding Cognitive Enhancement44:30 Modafinil and Its Effects50:50 Exploring the Benefits and Downsides of a New Drug51:22 Mechanisms and Effects of the Drug52:42 Hallmarks of Aging and Their Impact58:07 Understanding Stem Cells and Their Functions01:01:52 Formulating a Stem Cell Supplement01:10:18 Sequencing Protocols for Optimal Health01:15:13 Challenges and Research in the Supplement Industry01:23:33 Final Thoughts and Recommendations01:34:29 Podcast Conclusion and Disclaimers Flex Diet Podcasts You May Enjoy: Episode 263: Lifestyle, Longevity, and the Future of GLP-1 Agonist Use in Wellness with Christa RymalYouTube: https://youtu.be/SlALIb74KvMEpisode 165: Health, Sports Performance and Longevity Medicine: Dr Rick Cohen with Dr. Mike T NelsonYouTube: https://youtu.be/bYk_wzBJzJYConnect with Dr Pardi:Qualia: https://www.qualialife.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dan_pardiGet In Touch with Dr Mike:Instagram: DrmiketnelsonYouTube: @flexdietcertEmail: Miketnelson.com/contact-us
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    1 hr and 38 mins
  • Episode 351: Brain Rehab That Works: Tools for Concussions & Migraines w/ Dr. Ayla Wolf

    Episode 351: Brain Rehab That Works: Tools for Concussions & Migraines w/ Dr. Ayla Wolf
    Oct 28 2025
    In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I’m joined by Dr. Eila Wolf, who specializes in functional neurology and Chinese medicine. We dig into how these fields come together to help people dealing with concussions, migraines, and chronic pain — and why traditional approaches often fall short.Dr. Wolf walks us through the science behind her methods, including how acupuncture, vestibular work, and eye movement assessments can reveal what’s really going on in the brain after an injury. We also talk about her new book, The Concussion Breakthrough, and how it’s helping patients who’ve been struggling with long-term symptoms finally find a path forward.If you want a deeper understanding of how the brain heals — and how functional neurology can help you or someone you know recover faster and more completely — you’ll get a ton out of this conversation.Sponsors:Beyond Power Voltra 1: https://www.beyond-power.com/michael13Tecton Ketone Esters: https://tectonketones.comAvailable now:Grab a copy of the Triphasic Training II book I co-wrote with Cal Deitz here.Episode Chapters:00:46 Exploring Functional Neurology01:23 Concussions and Eye Movements02:09 Dr. Wolf’s Book and Newsletter02:42 Starting the Conversation02:49 Dr. Wolf’s Lecture at Northwestern03:40 Better PowerPoint Presentation Tips04:29 Challenges of Creating New Talks05:57 AI in Research and Presentation07:22 Cadaver Lab Experience in Toronto09:07 Acupuncture and Anatomical Research09:54 History and Acceptance of Chinese Medicine11:47 Skepticism and Evidence in Acupuncture13:41 Research Design Challenges17:18 Innovative Acupuncture Studies21:34 Psychedelics and Research23:15 Dr. Wolf’s Journey into Acupuncture27:08 Favorite Herbs and Their Benefits29:16 Introduction to Functional Neurology33:18 Case Studies and Clinical Insights35:59 Sensory Tricks for Migraines38:13 Mechanisms Behind Sensory Tricks39:32 Light Sensitivity and the Midbrain40:45 Personal Experience with a Health App41:31 Understanding Light Sensitivity42:59 Case Study: Pupil Response and Eye Pain44:09 Eye Movements & Concussion Diagnosis47:06 Gaze Stability and Neurological Insights52:19 The Concussion Breakthrough Book55:45 Complex Cases in Functional Neurology01:04:27 Visual + Vestibular Integration01:14:55 Final Thoughts and Resources Flex Diet Podcasts You May Enjoy: Episode 132: The Effects of Creatine Supplements on Brain Function, Concussion, and Sports Performance with Dr Eric RawsonYouTube: https://youtu.be/g7f8yHNlawU Episode 311: Maximizing Athletic Performance with Neurology: Insights from Dr. Dylan SeeleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bnuYQ-GJ6toConnect with Dr Wolf:The Concussion Breakthrough: https://www.amazon.com/Concussion-Breakthrough-Discover-Missing-Recovery/dp/B0FDBLVDVHWebsite: https://www.acupunctureneurology.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ayla_wolf354Get In Touch with Dr Mike:Instagram: DrmiketnelsonYouTube: @flexdietcertEmail: Miketnelson.com/contact-us
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    1 hr and 19 mins
  • Episode 350: From Halo to Flow: The Future of Brain Performance Tech w/ Erin Lee of Flow Neuroscience

    Episode 350: From Halo to Flow: The Future of Brain Performance Tech w/ Erin Lee of Flow Neuroscience
    Oct 24 2025
    In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I’m joined by Erin Silver Lee, the CEO of Flow Neuroscience. We dig into some seriously cool stuff — including Flow’s recent acquisition of the Halo device, which uses non-invasive brain stimulation (TDCS) to boost both athletic and mental performance.Erin and I talk about how this tech works, what the current research says, and how it’s being applied to improve focus, sleep, neuroplasticity, and overall brain health. We also get into the real-world side of things — from navigating FDA regulations to running clinical trials and shaping the future of personalized brain optimization.If you’re curious about where neuroscience meets performance — and how safe, evidence-based brain stimulation might fit into the next generation of recovery and training tools — you’ll want to check this one out.Sponsors:Beyond Power Voltra 1: https://www.beyond-power.com/michael13Tecton Ketone Esters: https://tectonketones.comAvailable now:Grab a copy of the Triphasic Training II book I co-wrote with Cal Deitz here.Episode Chapters:00:38 Background on Halo Device and Flow Neuroscience01:50 Acquisition and Technology Insights02:09 FDA Regulation and Consumer Approval06:02 New Device Focus and User Benefits07:29 Device Design and Usage08:45 Impact on Sleep and Mental Performance16:17 Personalization and Future Developments26:06 Focus and Concentration Benefits29:33 Navigating FDA Regulations30:35 Depression Treatment Success in Europe30:51 Challenges with Regulatory Approval31:50 Real-World Success and Halo Product Launch33:23 Navigating FDA Approval and Bias42:45 Clinical Trials and Expanding Indications51:25 Brain Health and Personal Practices55:33 Podcast Conclusion and Listener Information Flex Diet Podcasts You May Enjoy: Episode 346: From Navy SEAL to Neuroscience: Dr. Blaine Lints on Ibogaine and PerformanceYouTube: https://youtu.be/8UNGgyqBWm0 Episode 241: A New Perspective on Brain Health with Dr. Shaun KornfeldYouTube: https://youtu.be/1HcgPp6Wz7QConnect with Flow Neuroscience:Website: https://www.haloneuroscience.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/halo.neuroscienceYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HaloNeuroscienceLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/halo-neuroscience/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/halo.neuro/Get In Touch with Dr Mike:Instagram: DrmiketnelsonYouTube: @flexdietcertEmail: Miketnelson.com/contact-us
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    58 mins
  • Episode 348: Training Physiologic Flexibility with Dr. Mikki Williden

    Episode 348: Training Physiologic Flexibility with Dr. Mikki Williden
    Oct 16 2025

    In this episode, I’m sharing a special rebroadcast of my chat with Dr. Mikki Williden all about physiologic flexibility, including how to train your body to handle stress and adapt better. We cover metabolic flexibility, heat and cold exposure, sauna and cold therapy, lactate and buffering systems, plus CO₂ and O₂ tolerance. You’ll learn how these systems connect to boost performance, recovery, and body composition in a healthy, sustainable way.

    Sponsor:

    • Physiologic Flexibility Certification Course open Monday, Oct. 13 to Monday, Oct. 20: https://miketnelsons.samcart.com/products/physflex/

    Triphasic 2 book now available!

    • Go to https://triphasic2.com/

    Episode Chapters:

    • 01:39 Introduction by Dr. Mikki Williden
    • 02:43 Dr. Mike T. Nelson's Background
    • 06:53 Discussion on Metabolic and Physiologic Flexibility
    • 15:09 Personal Experiences and Experiments
    • 16:28 Cold Exposure and Its Effects
    • 25:28 Heat Exposure and Adaptation
    • 31:36 Psychological Benefits of Cold Exposure
    • 34:31 Practical Recommendations for Cold and Heat Exposure
    • 39:52 Understanding pH Balance and Acid Tolerance
    • 41:52 Understanding Lactate and Its Role in Exercise
    • 43:19 Buffering Systems and Supplements
    • 49:11 High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) Insights
    • 53:02 Breathing Techniques and CO2 Tolerance
    • 57:44 Altitude Training and Oxygen Regulation
    • 01:06:34 Metabolic Flexibility and Ketones
    • 01:14:39 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    Get In Touch with Dr Mike:

    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/
    • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpg
    • Email: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/
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    1 hr and 19 mins
  • Episode 347: Phys Flex Cert Opens Today: Build a More Adaptable, Resilient Body

    Episode 347: Phys Flex Cert Opens Today: Build a More Adaptable, Resilient Body
    Oct 13 2025

    In this episode, I break down my Physiologic Flexibility Certification — an advanced course designed to help you build a more adaptable, resilient body. I’ll walk you through the four key pillars of human performance: temperature regulation, pH balance, fuel use, and air/CO₂ control. You’ll hear how this cert expands on my Flex Diet Certification to improve recovery, strength, and overall health using practical strategies and modern wearable tech. Enrollment is open October 13–20, 2025.

    Sponsor:

    • Physiologic Flexibility Certification Course open Monday, Oct. 13 to Monday, Oct. 20: https://miketnelsons.samcart.com/products/physflex/

    Triphasic 2 book now available!

    • Go to https://triphasic2.com/

    Episode Chapters:

    • 01:09 Metabolic Flexibility vs. Physiologic Flexibility
    • 02:42 Four Pillars of Physiologic Flexibility
    • 06:07 Deep Dive into Temperature Regulation
    • 07:19 Understanding pH and Buffering Systems
    • 09:35 Fuel Systems: Carbohydrates and Ketones
    • 11:58 Air and CO2 Regulation
    • 15:06 Practical Applications and Technology
    • 30:26 Conclusion and Certification Details

    Get In Touch with Dr Mike:

    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/
    • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpg
    • Email: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/
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    33 mins
  • Episdoe 346: From Navy SEAL to Neuroscience: Dr. Blaine Lints on Ibogaine and Performance

    Episdoe 346: From Navy SEAL to Neuroscience: Dr. Blaine Lints on Ibogaine and Performance
    Oct 6 2025

    In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I chat with Dr. Blaine Lints, a former Navy SEAL and performance physiologist, about boosting performance, muscle, and resilience through flexible strategies. We dig into his research on ketones, caffeine, and theacrine, plus his work using Ibogaine for TBI recovery. I also break down how physiologic flexibility ties it all together for next-level performance and recovery.

    If you’re into cutting-edge performance science, brain optimization, or just want to hear two nerds talk physiology and Navy SEAL mental toughness, this one’s for you.

    Sponsors:

    • Beyond Power Voltra 1: https://www.beyond-power.com/michael13
    • Tecton Ketone Esters: https://tectonketones.com

    Available now:

    • Grab a copy of the Triphasic Training II book I co-wrote with Cal Deitz here.

    Episode Chapters:

    • 07:30 Interview with Dr. Blaine Lints Begins
    • 08:20 Research on Caffeine and Theacrine
    • 22:12 Dr. Lints' Ironman Journey
    • 34:23 Exploring Ketones and Heat Stress
    • 52:56 Exploring Ketone Esters and Their Benefits
    • 53:52 Personal Experiences with Ketone Dosages
    • 55:28 Research Insights on Ketone Mono Esters
    • 57:34 Ibogaine Study for Special Operators
    • 01:00:12 Personal Journey with Ibogaine Treatment
    • 01:04:23 Potential of Psychedelic Medicines
    • 01:10:26 Safety and Legality of Psychedelic Treatments
    • 01:18:56 Future of Psychedelic Research and Applications
    • 01:26:32 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    Flex Diet Podcasts You May Enjoy:

    • Episode 311: Maximizing Athletic Performance with Neurology: Insights from Dr. Dylan Seeley
      • YouTube: https://youtu.be/bnuYQ-GJ6to.
    • Episode 167: The Physiologic and Psychologic Benefit of Doing Hard Things: Akshay Nanavati of Fearvana with Dr Mike T Nelson
      • YouTube: https://youtu.be/G_iFVGHZSEs

    Connect with Blaine:

    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blainekets

    Get In Touch with Dr Mike:

    • Instagram: Drmiketnelson
    • YouTube: @flexdietcert
    • Email: Miketnelson.com/contact-us
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    1 hr and 40 mins
  • Episode 345: Sleep Like a Beast: Lessons from Jay Wiles and Jeffrey Durmer

    Episode 345: Sleep Like a Beast: Lessons from Jay Wiles and Jeffrey Durmer
    Sep 29 2025
    In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I’m diving headfirst into the science of sleep with two heavy hitters—Dr. J Wiles and Dr. Jeff Dermer from Absolute Rest.We cover it all: why sleep is such a big deal from an evolutionary standpoint, how your modern lifestyle is probably trashing it, and what you can actually do to fix it. We dig into behavioral changes, the role of wearables versus legit lab sleep studies, and practical, no-BS strategies to get better shut-eye.Jay Wiles and Jeremy Durmer break down Absolute Rest’s comprehensive approach, examining the psychological, physiological, and environmental factors that influence sleep. Translation: it’s not just “buy a new pillow and call it good.”We also get into the fun stuff like caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol—how they mess with your recovery and performance—and why making small behavioral shifts and value-based choices can keep your sleep dialed in for the long haul.If you’ve ever wondered how to stop treating sleep like an optional side quest and instead make it one of your biggest performance enhancers, this one’s for you.Sponsors:LMNT electrolyte drink mix: https://drinklmnt.com/Get my free magnesium guide: https://miket.me/magAvailable now:Grab a copy of the Triphasic Training II book I co-wrote with Cal Deitz here.Episode Chapters:06:13 The Importance of Sleep: Evolutionary and Scientific Perspectives11:40 Sleep Deprivation Studies and Their Implications16:54 Unihemispheric Sleep: Can Humans Do It?25:00 Personalized Sleep Needs and Efficiency36:44 Personalized Sleep Assessment37:28 Subjective Experience in Sleep Quality38:20 Comprehensive Sleep Testing38:58 Autonomic Sleep Testing Explained39:32 Behavioral and Psychological Factors41:29 Polysomnography and Its Evolution47:23 Home Sleep Testing Innovations48:14 Cardiopulmonary Coupling and Sleep Quality56:35 Heart Rate Variability and Sleep01:06:44 Behavior Change and Value Systems01:13:50 Struggles with Sleep and Coaching Solutions01:14:27 Blocking Data to Improve Sleep Coaching01:14:58 Empowering Clients to Interpret Sleep Data01:15:41 The Importance of Sleep Regularity01:17:24 Caffeine and Nicotine's Impact on Sleep01:19:07 Genetics and Supplements in Sleep Health01:21:39 Behavioral Changes for Better Sleep01:27:35 Comprehensive Sleep Program Overview01:41:02 Addressing Sleep Issues in Children01:45:00 Podcast Conclusion and Resources Flex Diet Podcasts You May Enjoy: Episode 310: Unpacking the Science of Sleep with Dr. Allison Brager: https://miketnelson.com/episode-310-unpacking-the-science-of-sleep-with-dr-allison-brager/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fhS0qsF1OHs Episode 283: Unlocking Better Sleep and Stress Reduction with Dr. Dan Cohen of Soltec Health: https://miketnelson.com/episode-283-unlocking-better-sleep-and-stress-reduction-with-dr-dan-cohen-of-soltec-health/YouTube: https://youtu.be/VInoz9ItGfwConnect with Jay and Jeremy:Absolute Rest: https://www.absoluterest.com/Get In Touch with Dr Mike:Instagram: DrmiketnelsonYouTube: @flexdietcertEmail: Miketnelson.com/contact-us
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    1 hr and 50 mins
  • Episode 344: Metabolic Adaptations, Lactate, and Training Smarter with Dr. Phil Batterson

    Episode 344: Metabolic Adaptations, Lactate, and Training Smarter with Dr. Phil Batterson
    Sep 22 2025
    On this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I’m joined once again by Dr. Phil Batterson to nerd out on one of my favorite topics: anaerobic metabolism. We dig into what’s really happening during high-intensity training, the role of lactate, and why much of the “anaerobic vs. aerobic” discussion you hear is oversimplified (or just plain wrong).We also get into the nuts and bolts of how your bioenergetic systems adapt, why cardio equipment can actually be a powerful training tool, and where metabolic carts fit into the picture. Along the way, Phil drops practical examples you can use to better understand your own performance. If you want a clear, science-backed breakdown of anaerobic training without the fluff, this episode is for you.Sponsors:LMNT electrolyte drink mix: https://drinklmnt.com/Get your rower and assault bike at Rouge https://miket.me/rogueAvailable now:Grab a copy of the Triphasic Training II book I co-wrote with Cal Deitz here.Episode Chapters:04:58 Personal Updates and Business Insights12:37 Anaerobic vs. Aerobic Metabolism Discussion15:00 Training Techniques and Adaptations21:07 Challenges in Hybrid Training24:43 Exploring the ATP-PC System33:59 Introduction to Bioenergetic Systems34:05 Understanding Energy Systems in Exercise34:35 The Role of ATP and Phosphocreatine35:08 Intensity and Energy System Utilization35:46 Fatigue and Muscle Contraction36:38 Misconceptions in Exercise Physiology37:42 Lactate and Its Role in Exercise40:18 High-Intensity Training Adaptations41:46 VO2 Max and Training Protocols42:40 Balancing Aerobic and Anaerobic Training43:58 Effective Training Strategies55:00 Heart Rate and Performance Metrics01:00:07 Lactate: Myths and Realities01:09:30 Buffering Capacity and Adaptations01:16:03 BFR Bands and Intense Workouts01:16:38 The Importance of Cardiovascular Training for Lifters01:17:21 Debunking Myths About Cardiac Development01:18:04 Anaerobic and Aerobic Training Insights01:18:47 Effective Aerobic Training Strategies01:19:42 Maintaining VO2 Max with Minimal Effort01:20:12 Mitochondrial Function and Effective Workouts01:20:49 Where to Find Dr. Phil Batterson01:24:13 VO2 Max Testing and Interpretation01:28:42 Challenges in Lactate Threshold Testing01:39:00 Dynamic Range and Performance01:44:59 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsFlex Diet Podcasts You May Enjoy: Episode 264: Finding Your Aerobic Sweet Spot for Peak Health with Dr Phil BattersonYouTube: https://youtu.be/5j90cmi_I6k Episode 275: Mastering Combat Sports Conditioning Using Advanced Training Techniques with Strength Coach James TognariniYouTube: https://youtu.be/t9Hc-VrsY4kConnect with Dr Phil Batterson:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drphilbatterson/Get In Touch with Dr Mike:Instagram: DrmiketnelsonYouTube: @flexdietcertEmail: Miketnelson.com/contact-us
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    1 hr and 49 mins