Avsnitt
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When holistic nutritionist Elissa Goodman was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma at 32, a forward‑thinking oncologist asked questions she’d never heard in a doctor’s office: Are you happy? Do you love yourself? That moment ignited a three‑decade journey of radical healing—and today Elissa feels stronger in her 60s than she ever did in her 30s.
In this lively conversation with host Todd Vande Hei, Elissa gets refreshingly real about:
● The mindset shift that saved her life—and why self‑love is the ultimate bio‑hack.
● Turning “food as medicine” into a movement, including the wildly popular Soup Cleanse that resets digestion in just five days.
● Why gut health, mineral balance (hello, magnesium!), and yes—daily poops are non‑negotiables for energy and immunity.
● The role of psychedelics, breathwork, and Joe Dispenza‑style meditation in rewiring stress and subconscious beliefs.
● Dating in your 60s, the pitfalls of modern apps, and finding partners who can match your vitality.
● Practical tips: hydration hacks, inflammatory foods to ditch, stress‑taming adaptogens, and how to spot hidden food sensitivities.
Whether you’re navigating chronic illness, curious about holistic cancer recovery, or just want to age with more joy and lightness, Elissa’s story proves it’s never too late to rewrite your health narrative.
Connect with Elissa
• Instagram: @elissagoodman
• Programs, recipes & cleanses: elissagoodman.com
Connect with Stark
Explore personalized, data‑driven health at stark.health
If you enjoy the show, please follow, rate, and leave a review—it helps us reach more listeners who are ready to live stronger, longer lives!
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🤔 ABOUT Todd Vande Hei 🤔
Welcome to Todd Vande Hei's channel, where health mastery meets real-life transformation. Join Todd as he shares invaluable insights and practical tips to help you unlock your full health potential.
Whether you're struggling with chronic pain, seeking sustainable weight loss, or simply striving to live your best life, Todd's journey and expertise will inspire and empower you to take control of your health and well-being.
Join our community of health enthusiasts committed to making positive changes and thriving at every stage of life. Let's embark on this journey to vibrant health together!
DISCLOSURE
We focus on optimizing every aspect of your well-being. At Stark, our team of expert trainers, doctors, nutritionists and a complete medical support team, led by CEO Todd Vande Hei, is dedicated to helping you become the BEST version of yourself. We specialize in coaching executives, athletes, pop stars, astronauts and other noteworthy individuals in all forms of exercise, diet, lifestyle, stress management and personalized supplement protocols.
Our methodology is designed to tackle each facet of well-being comprehensively. We believe that optimal health encompasses ten key aspects, which serve as objective benchmarks for your journey towards peak performance and vitality.
Please note that the information provided in this video is for educational purposes only and should not be considered as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. The content in this video is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Viewing this content does not constitute a doctor-patient relationship. If you think you may have a medical emergency, contact your doctor or local emergency services immediately. -
In this enlightening episode, host Todd Vande Hei sits down with Dr. Paul Anderson—co-author of Outside the Box—to explore how chronic and complex health issues often slip through the cracks of our traditional medical system. Dr. Anderson explains how “inside-the-box” care excels at addressing acute emergencies, yet struggles when a patient presents multiple, smaller issues that add up to a serious problem. Together, they discuss the power of looking beyond standard protocols, embracing holistic treatment approaches, and treating the whole patient rather than just a set of labs or symptoms.
From Dr. Anderson’s decades of experience, you’ll hear why empowering patients is crucial for better outcomes—whether through addressing nutritional, environmental, or mind-body factors that conventional care may overlook. Todd shares his own health journey, shedding light on the life-changing benefits of asking deeper questions and challenging one-size-fits-all solutions. If you’ve ever wondered how to blend the strengths of conventional medicine with integrative therapies, this episode will give you fresh perspectives on personalized care and offer a clear path toward greater well-being.
To learn more about Dr. Paul Anderson’s work, visitDrANow.com. If you’re interested in discovering how Stark helps clients optimize their health, head over tostark.health. And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review—your feedback helps us reach more people looking to live healthier, more empowered lives!
🤔 ABOUT Todd Vande Hei 🤔
Welcome to Todd Vande Hei's channel, where health mastery meets real-life transformation. Join Todd as he shares invaluable insights and practical tips to help you unlock your full health potential.
Whether you're struggling with chronic pain, seeking sustainable weight loss, or simply striving to live your best life, Todd's journey and expertise will inspire and empower you to take control of your health and well-being.
Join our community of health enthusiasts committed to making positive changes and thriving at every stage of life. Let's embark on this journey to vibrant health together!
DISCLOSURE
We focus on optimizing every aspect of your well-being. At Stark, our team of expert trainers, doctors, nutritionists and a complete medical support team, led by CEO Todd Vande Hei, is dedicated to helping you become the BEST version of yourself. We specialize in coaching executives, athletes, pop stars, astronauts and other noteworthy individuals in all forms of exercise, diet, lifestyle, stress management and personalized supplement protocols.
Our methodology is designed to tackle each facet of well-being comprehensively. We believe that optimal health encompasses ten key aspects, which serve as objective benchmarks for your journey towards peak performance and vitality.
Please note that the information provided in this video is for educational purposes only and should not be considered as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. The content in this video is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Viewing this content does not constitute a doctor-patient relationship. If you think you may have a medical emergency, contact your doctor or local emergency services immediately.
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Saknas det avsnitt?
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Masculinity is evolving, but are men keeping up? In this compelling discussion, Dr. Hillary Goldsher joins Todd Vander Hei to unpack the societal pressures shaping modern masculinity and the consequences of emotional suppression.
They explore how men are taught to suppress emotions like fear, sadness, and anxiety—often leading to long-term consequences such as agitation, depression, sleep disorders, and even cardiovascular health issues. Todd shares his own experience with emotional suppression and the journey toward self-awareness, revealing how it reshaped his leadership, relationships, and well-being.Dr. Hillary provides insight into the biochemical and psychological effects of bottling up emotions and how it manifests in different aspects of health, from hormonal imbalances to stress-related illnesses. The conversation shifts to practical strategies for men to recognize, process, and express emotions in a healthy way—without losing their sense of strength or identity. They also discuss the transformative potential of psychedelic-assisted therapy, with Todd recounting a powerful breakthrough from a friend who used ketamine therapy to unlock emotional awareness.
If you’ve ever felt pressure to “tough it out” or struggled to express emotions, this episode is a must-listen. Learn how self-awareness, advocacy, and emotional intelligence can not only improve mental well-being but also strengthen relationships, leadership, and overall health.
Get access to Todd's free health resource: https://podtodd.com
Learn more about Stark at: https://www.stark.healthCHAPTERS:
00:00 - The Pressure on Modern Masculinity
07:45 - How Emotional Suppression Affects Men's Health
14:30 - The Hidden Symptoms of Suppression
21:10 - Todd’s Personal Journey with Emotional Awareness
28:50 - How Suppressed Emotions Manifest in the Body
35:25 - Practical Strategies for Emotional Awareness
41:40 - The Power of Vulnerability in Leadership
49:10 - How Men Can Support Each Other Emotionally
56:20 - The Role of Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy
62:00 - Final Thoughts: The Cost of Suppression -
How do concussions, repetitive head trauma, and strokes impact long-term brain health? Neuroscientist Dr. Kristen Willeumier and naturopathic physician Dr. Alice Nguyen join Todd Vande Hei for an eye-opening discussion on brain resilience, recovery, and performance.
Dr. Willeumier explains the dangers of subconcussive impacts—those repeated hits that don’t cause immediate symptoms but lead to long-term neurological damage. She breaks down the science of neuroplasticity, the role of tau protein in CTE, and how modern therapies like hyperbaric oxygen can support brain repair.
Dr. Nguyen provides a functional medicine perspective, detailing the key supplements, lab tests, and lifestyle changes that optimize cognitive function. She shares the exact protocol Todd followed before and after his stroke, offering valuable insights into the power of omega-3s, glutathione, and mitochondrial support.
This episode is packed with actionable strategies to protect your brain, enhance mental clarity, and age with cognitive resilience. Whether you’re an athlete, recovering from an injury, or simply looking to perform at your best, these insights are essential.
Get access to Todd’s free health resource: https://podtodd.com
Learn more about Stark at: https://www.stark.health
CHAPTERS:
00:00 Introduction to Dr. Kristen Willeumier & Dr. Alice Nguyen
03:10 The Hidden Dangers of Repetitive Head Trauma
07:35 How Subconcussive Impacts Lead to Long-Term Brain Damage
12:15 The Science of CTE & Tau Protein Accumulation
18:00 Stroke vs. Concussions: Key Differences in Recovery
22:45 Strategies for Neuroplasticity & Brain Repair
28:30 The Role of Supplements in Cognitive Function
34:20 How TRT Influences Brain Performance
40:50 The Importance of Diet in Neurological Health
46:15 Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Brain Recovery
51:40 Practical Steps to Maintain Cognitive Longevity
58:10 Closing Thoughts & Where to Find Dr. Willeumier & Dr. Nguyen -
Strength training isn’t just about lifting heavier—it’s about training smarter. Brett Jones, director of education at StrongFirst, rejoins Todd this week on the podcast, sharing his philosophy on strength training as a skill.
Brett dives into the science behind recovery and why effort alone doesn’t equal better results. He also highlights the role of grip strength as a key predictor of longevity and how maintaining muscle mass can impact overall health, including disease recovery. Having gone through cancer treatment himself, Brett emphasizes why being strong before facing a health crisis can be life-changing.
From busting training myths to explaining why testing and training should be separate, this episode offers actionable insights for anyone looking to build long-term strength.
Learn more about Brett and his resources on his website: https://appliedstrength.com/ or follow him on Instagram at @brettjonessfg.
Get access to Todd's free health resource: https://podtodd.com
Learn more about Stark at: https://www.stark.health
CHAPTERS:
00:00 Strength Is a Skill, Not Just Lifting Weights
02:52 The Wheel of Health: A Holistic View of Well-Being
04:46 Introducing Brett Jones & Strong First Training Philosophy
06:11 Common Myths That Hinder Strength Progress
09:19 The Importance of Movement Patterns for Orthopedic Health
15:51 Defining True Strength Training vs. High-Rep Workouts
18:49 The Role of Recovery in Strength Development
26:06 The Psychology of Effort: Why More Isn't Always Better
30:29 Grip Strength as a Marker for Longevity & Overall Strength
36:39 Strength Training & Disease Prevention: What the Research Says
41:56 How to Integrate Kettlebells for Maximum Benefit
45:35 Iron Cardio: Brett's Training Approach for Strength & Endurance
50:00 The Most Effective Training Plan for Busy Schedules -
Hydration is more than just drinking water—it’s about optimizing how your body absorbs, utilizes, and retains fluids to enhance mobility, reduce inflammation, and support long-term health. On this week’s episode of Health Is A Skill, Bryce Turner—owner of Beach Fitness and ELDOA USA—returns to the podcast, this time breaking down why hydration is a foundational component of structural wellness, particularly when it comes to joint mobility and fascia health.
During their conversation, Bryce and Todd walk through how hydration impacts everything from cellular energy production to pain management and digestion. Bryce discusses the optimal amount of water intake, the importance of mineral balance (including sodium and potassium), and how simple hydration mistakes can lead to stagnation, joint compression, and chronic pain.
Towards the end of the episode Bryce also shares insights into hydration myths, the impact of diet on water absorption, and how simple changes—like adding sea salt to water—can make a huge difference. Whether you’re an athlete, fitness professional, or just looking to improve your hydration habits, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways for boosting your overall hydration.
Follow Bryce on Instagram @beachbryce or check out his page on ELDOA USA here: https://eldoausa.com/trainer/bryce-turner/
Get access to Todd's free health resource: https://podtodd.com
Learn more about Stark at: https://www.stark.health
CHAPTERS:
00:00 Introduction to Hydration & Movement
02:15 The Importance of Baseline Hydration Assessment
04:30 How Hydration Affects Joint Mobility & Recovery
07:45 Common Hydration Mistakes & Misconceptions
11:20 The Role of Electrolytes & Salt in Hydration
15:00 How Stress Impacts Hydration & Connective Tissue
20:30 Movement, Circulation, & Fluid Stagnation
25:10 Water Quality: Filtration Systems & Best Practices
30:45 When & How to Drink Water for Optimal Absorption
35:30 Hydration Strategies for Active vs. Sedentary Lifestyles
40:20 Sauna Therapy & Other Hydration Optimization Tips
46:00 Closing Thoughts & Where to Learn More -
Intimacy is about so much more than physical connection—it's a pathway to deeper relationships, stronger communication, and improved mental well-being. On this week’s episode of Health Is A Skill, relationship coach Aaro Ardis joins Todd for a fascinating conversation about the complexities of love, sex, and connection.
During their conversation Aaro explains the significance of conscious coupling, how to set clear agreements in relationships, and the role of emotional awareness in creating long-term satisfaction. She also dives into the physiological and psychological benefits of intimacy—from reducing anxiety to boosting longevity—and shares practical tips for cultivating deeper connection with your partner.
If you're looking for actionable strategies to improve your romantic relationships, increase emotional connection, and enhance your sex life, this episode delivers powerful insights from one of the best relationship coaches in the field.
Learn more about Aaro and her practice on her website: https://aaroardis.com/.
Get access to Todd's free health resource: https://podtodd.com
Learn more about Stark at: https://www.stark.health
CHAPTERS:
00:00 The Hidden Benefits of Intimacy
00:49 Introduction to Health Is a Skill & Stark
03:54 Understanding the Wheel of Health
06:48 Todd’s Personal Experience with Aaro
09:49 The Science of Intimacy & Health
14:55 Aaro’s Background & Journey to Coaching
19:41 The Role of Intimacy in Mental Well-being
21:55 Overcoming Vulnerability in Relationships
23:35 Rebuilding Emotional Connection
26:02 Improving Communication Around Intimacy
27:54 The Power of Shared Activities & Attraction
29:05 Addressing Shame & Anxiety in Intimacy
36:50 Navigating Mismatched Libidos
40:31 Mindfulness & Its Role in Intimacy
45:47 Lessons from Non-Traditional Relationships
50:30 Daily Practices for Deeper Connection
54:18 The Key to a Stronger Relationship -
Most people don’t simply live their lives—they live out the stories going on in their minds. On this week’s episode of Health Is A Skill, Todd sits down with “The Mind Architect”, Peter Crone, to dive into how deeply ingrained subconscious beliefs drive behavior and limit potential. Peter shares how he helps elite athletes, executives, and everyday individuals break free from fear, stress, and self-imposed constraints.
Together the two discuss the difference between reactive and responsive living, the power of curiosity, and why true success requires trust, patience, and humility. Peter also explores the profound impact mindset has on health, healing, and longevity, arguing that shifting perspectives can be the key to dissolving anxiety and even improving physical well-being.
If you’re feeling stuck in repetitive cycles—whether in your career, relationships, or personal health—this episode will challenge you to reconsider the way you see the world and yourself.
Learn more about Peter on his website: https://www.petercrone.com/.
Get access to Todd's free health resource: https://podtodd.com
Learn more about Stark at: https://www.stark.health
CHAPTERS:
00:00 The Illusion of Stress and Control
03:30 Todd’s Transformational Moment with Peter
06:12 How Mental Narratives Shape Reality
09:38 The Two Biggest Mental Barriers for Elite Performers
12:35 How Mindset Affects Aging and Flexibility
17:00 Rethinking Anxiety: The Power of Perception
19:40 Can Mindset Alone Heal Disease?
23:41 The Body as a Self-Healing Pharmacy
26:43 Acceptance vs. Resistance in High Performance
30:17 Breaking Free from Stuck Patterns
34:32 The Power of Trust, Patience, and Delegation
40:49 Embracing Impermanence for a More Fulfilling Life
49:25 Advice to a Younger Self -
The foundation of health starts in the gut—something ancient wisdom and modern science both can agree on. In this week’s episode of Health Is A Skill, Dr. Bob Rakowski unpacks the critical role gut health plays in overall wellness and why functional medicine is the key to addressing the root causes of disease.
Together Todd and Dr. Rakowski highlight the dangers of xenoestrogens and microplastics, explaining their link to declining testosterone, metabolic disorders, and early puberty. The conversation then shifts to hormones, where Dr. Rakowski reveals why muscle is the real driver of longevity and explains that conventional hormone replacement therapies may not be the best first step.
With decades of experience in functional medicine, Dr. Rakowski shares inspiring case studies of patients reversing chronic diseases, overcoming stage four cancer, and regaining their health through natural interventions. His insights on diet, movement, stress management, and environmental awareness offer a powerful roadmap for anyone looking to optimize their health.
Learn more about Dr. Rakowski and his practice on his website: https://www.drbobrakowski.com/.
Get access to Todd's free health resource: https://podtodd.com
Learn more about Stark at: https://www.stark.health
CHAPTERS:
00:00 Suppression of Natural Medicine and Its Comeback
03:26 Todd’s Health Transformation and the Role of Functional Medicine
06:20 Gut Health: The Foundation of Wellness
07:34 What is Functional Medicine? Common Misconceptions
12:55 Understanding Hormones and Endocrine Disruptors
16:57 Xenoestrogens and Their Impact on Male and Female Health
18:39 Microplastics and Environmental Toxins in the Body
25:53 The Shift Towards Health Consciousness in Younger Generations
27:53 Diagnostic Tools in Functional Medicine
33:59 The War on Health and Political Shifts in Medicine
35:17 Generational Differences in Healthcare Trust
37:49 How to Begin Your Health Journey
40:09 Success Stories: Overcoming Chronic Illness with Functional Medicine
42:17 Where to Find Dr. Bob Rakowski -
Magnesium is responsible for over a thousand biochemical reactions in the body, yet more than 75% of people are deficient in this critical mineral. Dr. Robert Fredrickson joins Todd on this week’s episode of Health is a Skill to break down why magnesium is essential for energy production, blood pressure regulation, cardiovascular health, sleep, anxiety, and even muscle function. Together the two discuss how stress, processed foods, and modern farming practices contribute to widespread magnesium deficiencies and how to address these gaps through diet and supplementation.
The conversation dives into the different forms of magnesium supplements—which ones are effective, which ones to avoid, and how to choose the right one for specific health concerns. Todd and Dr. Fredrickson also discuss how magnesium interacts with medications, why gut health impacts magnesium absorption, and the link between magnesium and nervous system balance. Whether you're looking to optimize your health, improve recovery, or manage stress, this episode is filled with actionable insights to help you make the most of magnesium.
Learn more about Dr. Fredrickson and his practice on his website: https://fredricksonhealthsolutions.com/.
Get access to Todd's free health resource: https://podtodd.com
Learn more about Stark at: https://www.stark.health
CHAPTERS:
00:00 Introduction to Magnesium’s Importance
03:07 Todd’s Personal Experience with Magnesium Deficiency
04:01 The Essential Roles of Magnesium in the Body
05:26 Signs & Symptoms of Magnesium Deficiency
06:52 How to Test Your Magnesium Levels Accurately
08:53 Can You Get Enough Magnesium from Food?
10:00 Understanding Different Magnesium Forms
12:06 Magnesium for Constipation & Gut Health
13:24 Magnesium’s Role in Mental Health & Anxiety
15:06 The Connection Between Magnesium & Heart Health
16:55 How Long Does It Take to Correct a Deficiency?
18:46 Magnesium-Rich Foods & The Dark Chocolate Connection
19:51 Magnesium for Muscle Recovery & Restless Leg Syndrome
21:43 How Magnesium Impacts Sleep Quality
23:16 Medication Interactions & Magnesium Depletion
24:56 Who Is Most at Risk for Magnesium Deficiency?
25:52 Can You Take Too Much Magnesium?
27:14 How to Choose the Best Magnesium Supplement
30:26 Why Type A Personalities Need More Magnesium
30:35 Where to Find Dr. Fredrickson -
Menopause is an inevitable transition, but it doesn’t have to be miserable. In this episode, Dr. Alice Nguyen brings her wealth of knowledge to a candid discussion on managing menopause and metabolic health. She and Todd dive into how hormonal shifts affect weight, fat distribution, and mental well-being. Dr. Nguyen then explains why resistance training and optimal protein intake are critical for maintaining muscle mass and bone health, especially post-30 when muscle naturally begins to decline.
The episode also addresses early signs of metabolic issues, the importance of digestive health, and how aging ovaries affect energy, cognition, and physical health. Dr. Nguyen discusses the power of HRT in restoring hormonal balance and even helping patients wean off psychiatric medications. Misconceptions around fitness goals, such as the pressures of achieving a "six-pack," are tackled head-on, with practical advice for women to navigate this life stage healthfully and confidently.
Whether you’re in your 20s and looking to build a strong foundation or entering menopause and facing new challenges, this conversation offers actionable strategies to improve your quality of life at every stage.
Get access to Todd's free health resource: https://podtodd.comLearn more about Stark at: https://www.stark.health
CHAPTERS
00:00 The Impact of Hormones on Mental Health
05:30 Menopause and Metabolic Changes
11:35 Disordered Eating and Its Consequences
20:05 The Balance of Exercise and Nutrition
25:53 Understanding Hormonal Changes in Women
30:42 Managing Perimenopause: Strategies and Solutions
35:28 The Role of Nutrition and Supplements
41:35 The Importance of Protein and Strength Training
47:15 Navigating Menopause: Acceptance and Adaptation -
On today’s episode of Health is a Skill, Todd is diving into a topic that is becoming more and more prevalent for men: lower rates of male fertility. Dr. Michael Moeller is a naturopathic medical doctor who specializes in men’s health, with a focus on fertility optimization and testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). Together the two discuss why men across the board are experiencing lower rates of fertility and testosterone than ever before and how to combat this issue from a health standpoint.
Todd starts off the conversation by asking Michael why he believes male fertility rates have been dropping globally, and some of the key factors behind this change from even just 50 years ago. The episode then gets into some of the ways men can naturally boost their testosterone levels, the benefits of TRT, and the impact of factors like diet, exercise, and other treatments on male fertility. If you’re a guy, especially in your younger years, don’t skip this information-packed episode!
Learn more about Dr. Michael Moeller and his practice on his website: https://www.drmichaelmoeller.com/.
Follow Michael on Instagram at @dr.michaelmoeller
Get access to Todd's free health resource: https://podtodd.com
Learn more about Stark at: https://www.stark.health
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction to Male Fertility and TRT
02:51 The Wheel of Health Philosophy
06:09 Declining Male Fertility Rates
09:01 Environmental and Lifestyle Factors
11:57 Understanding Hormones and Neurotransmitters
14:47 The Impact of Sleep on Health
18:01 Exploring TRT and Its Effects
20:48 Clomiphene and Its Role in Fertility
24:09 Navigating Hormonal Treatments
27:01 The Future of Male Health and Fertility
36:37 Understanding Testosterone and Its Impact
47:59 Navigating Fertility and Hormone Therapy
59:57 The Role of Nutrition in Hormone Optimization
01:07:39 Future Perspectives on Fertility and Hormone Health -
Being that it’s the beginning of a new year, we’re continuing our conversation on the best ways to lose fat as we start off 2025! Today Todd is joined by Stark’s registered dietician, Geoff Samson. Geoff is an expert in all things fat loss and the foods you need to eat (and not eat!) to achieve your goals.
On today’s episode, Todd invites Geoff to share some of that expertise: weighing in on many of the common mistakes he sees people making when trying to lose fat, the best foods to eat (and some to avoid) for fat loss, and why food can (and should!) still be enjoyable even if you’re working to achieve your goals. Todd ends the episode with a rapid fire series of questions for Geoff, asking him everything from his favorite cheat meal to the most bizarre weight loss trend he’s seen in practice.
Get access to Todd's free health resource: https://podtodd.com
Learn more about Stark at: https://www.stark.health
CHAPTERS
00:00 Rethinking Nutrition: Beyond Chicken and Broccoli
07:33 Understanding Fat Loss: Common Mistakes and Misconceptions
14:46 The Role of Liquid Calories in Diet
22:30 Debunking Food Myths: Good vs. Bad Foods
24:56 The Evolution of Taste: Adapting to Healthier Choices
27:53 The Evolution of Taste and Palate Adaptation
31:11 Navigating Diet Trends: Tools for Success
38:21 The Ripple Effect of Nutrition on Energy and Health
40:46 Breaking Free from Emotional and Stress Eating
49:27 Rapid Fire: Nutrition Trends and Personal Favorites -
Welcome to Season 3 of Health is a Skill! We’re kicking off a brand new season—and a brand new year—talking about the most effective ways to burn fat and feel your best as we enter 2025. Stark’s head of training and health protocols, Amir Mofidi, is back on the podcast, this time joining Todd to discuss optimizing fat-burn, if cutting calories actually works, and which type of exercise to prioritize to lose fat in those stubborn areas. Let’s dive in!
Amir and Todd have been perfecting their respective fat loss regimens for years, and in this opening episode of Season 3, they share those exact strategies with you! Together the two outline the role hormones play in fat loss, if fasting or calorie restriction actually works to achieve your goals, and the best ways to exercise depending on your life stage and body composition. Todd and Amir wrap up the episode by taking a look at fat loss in women specifically, plus debunk some of the common misconceptions around how to burn fat.
Start 2025 off right with this super practical episode, and don’t miss a moment of Health is a Skill this season by subscribing to the show here: https://www.stark.health/podcast.
Get access to Todd's free health resource: https://podtodd.com
Learn more about Stark at: https://www.stark.health
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction to Fat Loss Goals
02:55 The Wheel of Health Concept
05:47 Hormonal Influences on Fat Burning
09:11 Understanding the Fat Burning Process
12:00 The Role of Muscle Mass in Fat Burning
16:47 Cardio and the Fat Burning Zone
20:04 High-Intensity vs. Low-Intensity Training
22:50 Rapid Fat Loss Strategies
25:17 Caloric Restriction and Its Effects
26:15 The Role of Macros in Fat Burning
27:41 Fasting: Benefits and Drawbacks
29:35 Understanding Glycemic Loads
30:32 Misconceptions About Fat Loss
33:25 Spot Reduction: Myth or Reality?
34:22 Extreme Caloric Restriction Consequences
37:16 Cultural Shifts in Female Fitness
40:35 The Importance of Protein and Calories
44:26 Measuring Progress in Fat Loss
48:18 Personal Strategies for Fat Burning -
We’re wrapping up Season 2 of Health is a Skill with a recap of the last 11 episodes—what our guests taught us about achieving a state of peak health, Todd’s insights into his own health journey, and a look back on how you can be the healthiest version of you.
For this solo episode, Todd runs us through each guest from this past season, emphasizing what they taught us about taking health into our own hands. If you’re looking for a list of actionable steps to take charge of your health as the new year begins, this is the episode recap you need! Todd then concludes this episode with a look back on his own health scare in September—how he suffered a stroke and what he’s done to improve his sleep and heart health in the aftermath.
Thanks for tuning in to Season 2 of Health is a Skill—we’ll see you back here for Season 3 coming soon!
Get access to Todd's free health resource: https://podtodd.com
Learn more about Stark at: https://www.stark.health
CHAPTERS
00:00 Optimizing Your Health Journey
01:33 The Healing Power of Music
03:27 Perspective and Longevity
05:23 The Importance of Sleep
07:19 Strengthening Your Glutes
09:41 Protein and Regenerative Agriculture
10:39 Women's Health and Birth Control
11:35 Mental Resilience from Space
13:30 Strength Training and Eastern Medicine
15:27 Personal Health Journey and Recovery
18:53 Season Recap and Holistic Health -
Todd is back for this week’s episode of Health is a Skill with a special guest he’s been meaning to reconnect with for over a decade: Dr. Chris Holder. Chris is a strength coach turned doctor of eastern medicine practices like Qigong and Christian mysticism, and today on the show he’s here to tell us more about where the two intersect.
Todd begins the episode with an overview of what strength training is and its many benefits—inviting Chris to share how he’s seen eastern medicine practices enhance his strength training programs, specifically helping his athletes during their recovery periods. The two go on to discuss some of the biggest things Chris has learned throughout his career as a strength coach, lay out best practices for strength training as you get older, and make the case for why the science of strength training and the spirituality of eastern medicine can (and should!) go hand-in-hand.
Follow Chris on social media @drholder, and check out his website here: https://www.christianmysticism.online/.
Get access to Todd's free health resource: https://podtodd.com
Learn more about Stark at: https://www.stark.health
CHAPTERS
00:00 Holistic Health and the Wheel of Health
03:51 The Power of Strength Training
10:11 Emotional and Mental Benefits of Strength Training
15:57 Integrating Eastern and Western Medicine
20:12 The Future of Health and Wellness
28:00 Integrating Qigong in Athletic Training
29:54 Common Mistakes in Strength Training
35:16 The Evolution of Nutritional Approaches
39:26 Strength Training for Aging Populations
43:09 Connective Tissue and Athletic Performance
51:59 Movement Patterns and Athletic Longevity -
For today’s episode of Health Is a Skill Todd is joined by a very special guest, his brother Mark Vande Hei! But this isn’t just some catch-up conversation between two brothers. Mark is a NASA astronaut and retired U.S. Army colonel who served as a mission specialist aboard the International Space Station on multiple expeditions, including a record-setting stay of 355 days. Given his background in high-stress environments, Mark and Todd discuss how to build a foundation of mental well-being, why practicing meditation was so important for Mark while on mission in space, and the many ways our mental state affects our physical health.
During the first part of the episode, Todd outlines his own mental health journey and how having a healthy (or unhealthy) mental state can drastically impact so many areas of our physical health—from our cardiovascular system and orthopedic health to our gut and sleep. Then Mark and Todd get together to take a deep dive into Mark’s experience serving on the International Space Station. Mark discusses how meditation played a key role in maintaining his mental well-being during orbit, why community and connection were some of his top priorities, and even his advice for dealing with conflict among different groups of people.
This unique take on how to build resilience and prioritize your mental health is a conversation you’re not going to want to miss!
Get access to Todd's free health resource: https://podtodd.com
Learn more about Stark at: https://www.stark.health
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction to Mental Well-Being
02:46 The Wheel of Health and Its Components
06:07 The Interconnectedness of Mental and Physical Health
09:05 Detoxification and Its Importance
11:55 Gut Health and Stress Management
14:48 Nutrition's Role in Mental Resilience
18:12 Orthopedic Health and Stress
21:10 Mark Vande Hei's Experience in Space
24:04 Meditation and Mental Resilience in Space
29:51 Adapting to Life in Space
33:07 The Role of Meditation in Physical Health
40:15 Fostering Connection and Purpose in Isolation
46:03 Navigating Interpersonal Relationships in Space
51:53 The Impact of News Consumption on Perspective
57:09 Shifts in Family Dynamics and Communication -
For decades women have been told that taking the birth control pill is the best approach to controlling their cycle and regulating hormones. But as more research has been done in recent years, it’s become apparent that maybe this isn’t the best choice for all women. On today’s episode of Health is a Skill, Todd sits down with Alice Nguyen—Stark’s head of functional medicine—this time to take a realistic look at the birth control pill and its overall effect on a woman’s health.
Todd begins the episode with a brief overview of the history of the birth control pill and why that matters in light of the way women are using it today. He then invites Alice to share her perspective—both as an expert on the topic and as a woman herself—on some of the common misconceptions surrounding the pill’s impact on a woman’s overall health, natural birth control alternatives, and the sizeable role diet and exercise play in hormone regulation and decreasing menstrual pain.
Whether you’re a woman yourself or simply have women in your life that you care about—this episode is one you can’t miss!
Get access to Todd's free health resource: https://podtodd.com
Learn more about Stark at: https://www.stark.health
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction to Women's Health and Birth Control
02:52 The Wheel of Health Concept
05:47 Pharmacology and Women's Health
09:10 The Impact of the Pill on Society
11:51 Misconceptions About the Pill
14:55 Negative Side Effects of Hormonal Birth Control
17:46 Acne and Hormonal Imbalances
21:06 Long-term Effects of Birth Control
24:08 Managing Menstrual Symptoms
26:49 Non-Hormonal Approaches to PMS
28:39 Addressing Micronutrient Deficiencies
31:55 The Role of Omega-3s in Hormonal Health
35:43 Natural Alternatives to Birth Control
40:53 Dietary Influences on Menstrual Health
44:32 Environmental Factors Affecting Women's Health
47:47 Stress Management and Hormonal Balance
52:46 Optimizing Hormonal Health Beyond Birth Control -
Todd is back for this week’s episode of Health is a Skill, this time sitting down with Stark’s Amir Mofidi to talk all things muscle mass. Most of us know that having a healthier muscle mass percentage is a good thing for our bodies, but can it actually lead to living a longer, healthier life? And how do we go about building muscle in a way that’s beneficial and sustainable? Amir discusses all that and more on today’s episode.
During their conversation Todd invites Amir to weigh in on the best ways to measure muscle mass, the ideal percentages for men and women (they’re vastly different), and once built, how we prevent that hard-earned muscle mass from going away as we age. The two end their discussion by looking at the different ways we can approach training when it comes to effectively building up muscle.
Connect with Amir Mofidi and the rest of the Stark team on their website: www.stark.health.
Get access to Todd's free health resource: https://podtodd.com
Learn more about Stark at: https://www.stark.health
CHAPTERS
00:00 The Importance of Movement and Muscle Mass
01:32 Understanding Muscle Mass Measurement
05:23 The Role of Measurement in Health
06:51 Setting Optimal Muscle Mass Goals
10:14 The Impact of Water Weight on Measurements
14:28 Body Fat Percentages and Women's Health
16:52 The Pursuit of Exceptional Health
17:21 Myofibular Protein Synthesis and Muscle Growth
24:31 Understanding Motor Unit Activation
27:53 Training to Failure: Myths and Realities
30:15 The Role of Technique in Strength Training
36:29 Training Frequency and Muscle Growth
43:43 Getting Started: A Beginner's Guide to Training -
The effect fasting can have on your health and longevity is a complicated one, and has become even less clear-cut in recent years. So how can we know if fasting practices like intermittent fasting benefit our overall health? Today on Health is a Skill Todd welcomes back Dr. Paul Anderson and Alice Nguyen, who team up on this episode to discuss if fasting can really optimize our health for the long term.
Dr. Anderson and Alice work with different subsets of the population—where Dr. Anderson focuses on cancer patients and the critically ill, Alice’s role as Stark’s head of functional medicine has her working with clients who, though not traditionally viewed as “sick,” are working to improve their health. Together Dr. Anderson and Alice outline how fasting affects many of our body’s most basic functions, from cellular health and cardiovascular function to disease prevention and a more well-rounded diet. The episode closes with a look at some of the ways individuals can practice “taking out the garbage,” as Dr. Anderson says, besides fasting.
Learn more about Dr. Paul Anderson and his practice on his website: www.dranow.com.
Connect with Alice Nguyen and the rest of the Stark team on their website: www.stark.health.
Get access to Todd's free health resource: https://podtodd.com
Learn more about Stark at: https://www.stark.health
CHAPTERS00:00 The Role of Fasting in Health and Longevity
09:05 Diverse Perspectives on Fasting: Experts Weigh In
21:31 Fasting and Its Impact on Different Populations
31:53 The Importance of Clean Eating
34:45 Fasting and Gut Health
37:08 Optimizing Diet for Health
39:34 The Role of Sleep in Health
40:59 Hormonal Balance and Healing
42:21 Fasting and Mitochondrial Health
49:38 Understanding Dementia and Cognitive Decline
56:17 Cardiovascular Health and Fasting - Visa fler
