The Human Upgrade: Biohacking for Longevity & Performance

This episode is a deep dive into the heart of modern fitness, led by one of its most influential figures. Joining me today is Lavinia Errico, the visionary co-founder of Equinox Fitness Clubs. Lavinia isn't just a pioneer in the fitness industry, she's a passionate advocate for a life that's healthier, more fulfilled, balanced, and brimming with joy. She's dedicated to helping others achieve these same goals, inspiring people to delve into self-awareness and embrace transformative journeys. With her belief in enjoying the journey and embracing the process, Lavinia has shaped not just her own life but the lives of countless others towards seeing, feeling, and living remarkable results.Today, you’ll hear about how Lavinia's career in fitness and biohacking began with the birth of the modern fitness movement and Equinox as she shares challenges and triumphs of starting a fitness revolution in 1980s New York. You’ll also learn about the unique ethos that set Equinox apart and how building a business with family shaped its upward trajectory.This conversation is threaded with insight into the life of an entrepreneur, the realities of being a CEO, and how Lavinia intuitively balanced her professional journey with motherhood. Lastly, you’ll get a taste of Lavinia's wellness rituals, her philosophy as a lifelong learner, and her exciting new chapter with MOVEJOY, aimed at creating a more stress-free, joyous workout experience for everyone. (00:01:41) Laying the Foundation of Equinox(00:10:44) Finding the Joy of Movement(00:18:56) Advice for Women in Business(00:24:51) The Honest Cost of Being an Entrepreneur & CEO(00:32:14) Wellness Rituals & Being a Student of Life(00:44:47) Introducing Move Joy(00:55:27) Shifting the Why Behind MovementResourcesDave Asprey’s NEW Book ‘Smarter Not Harder’ is out now: https://daveasprey.com/books Website: movejoy.lifeInstagram: @laviniajoyLinkedIn: Lavinia ErricoThe Human Upgrade is produced by Crate Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

19 Des 20231h 4min

Today is a long-awaited show with none other than Bryan Johnson, an entrepreneur, venture capitalist, author, and professional rejuvenation athlete on a mission to discover the next evolution of humankind. While Bryan is well known in the longevity space, I’ve been a fan of his work for years because of his neuroscience background. Bryan started a company called Kernel, which makes devices that monitor and record brain activity. Kernel uses what I would call the most comprehensive way of looking at the human brain ever. He is the founder of OS Fund and Braintree, and he spearheads Project Blueprint, an anti-aging experiment where he’s spent multiple years and millions of dollars developing an algorithm to live longer. In today’s wide-ranging talk, we discuss the future of optimizing our brains with AI—delving into all things biohacking and longevity while exploring complicated questions like… Can you die of loneliness? And… Are your critics making you old?Plus, we talk testosterone—an often triggering topic, but an essential conversation. Bryan shares his perspective on why he would rather be respected by people in the 25th century than understood now. Stick around for his surprising takes on olive oil, body hair, and saunas. (00:59) Biohacking The Brain (05:34) Are Your Critics Making You Old?(12:52) What Makes Bryan Tick(20:09) The Longevity-Loneliness Connection (28:27) Accounting For Bio Individuality in Health Protocols (39:09) Does Having a Partner Help You Live Longer? (47:59) Olive Oil vs. Saturated Fats (54:39) Talking Testosterone (01:07:52) Expanding Consciousness with Psychedelics (01:12:06) Questions from the Live Audience Sponsor: Try Qualia NAD+ with an extra 15% off with code Dave15.Resources:Dave Asprey’s NEW Book ‘Smarter Not Harder’ is out now: https://daveasprey.com/books Website: protocol.bryanjohnson.comKernel: kernel.comRead: Don’t Die by Zero Instagram: @bryanjohnson_ YouTube: Bryan Johnson Linkedin: Bryan Johnson The Human Upgrade is produced by Crate Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

14 Des 20231h 26min

Coming to you live from Austin, Texas, I can’t wait for you to meet Dan Freed—a man who’s journeyed from the hot kitchen of high-end cooking to the frontier of brain improvement. Dan’s the founder and CEO of Thesis, a company that's revolutionizing the way we think about our brain's potential, and his journey is one of resilience and innovation. Picture this… A kid struggling with focus throughout childhood, he drops out of high school and claws his way up in the ruthless restaurant industry to become a saucier in a three-star Michelin kitchen. But the real twist comes when Dan, grappling with burnout, stumbles upon cognitive performance supplements. This discovery didn't just change his mental game, it transformed his entire life. Fast forward through degrees from Yale and INSEAD, and you have the Dan that sits down for this interview—committed to helping others harness their brainpower to the fullest.We get into the nitty gritty of nootropics and the supplement industry, talking about how Dan's fight with burnout and learning challenges led to the birth of Thesis Nootropics. We share tips on adapting human biology to our modern world, discuss the thorny issues of regulation and quality in the supplement industry, and explain how Thesis uses a unique combined approach of customizing nootropics and expert support for their customers. We round it all off with a look at the remarkable, results-driven formulas that Thesis offers, and how focus is the key to unlocking our greatest potential. Dan's story is a living proof that sometimes, a couple of stumbles can lead to an incredible leap forward, thanks to some conscious action. That’s the kind of journey we all can learn something from.(00:02:14) How Burnout & Learning Challenges Inspired Thesis Nootropics(00:19:15) Is Using Nootropics Cheating?(00:25:37) Tips for Adapting Human Biology to the Modern World(00:32:33) How Thesis Is Customizing Nootropics(00:40:59) Tips for Supporting Your Body’s Homeostasis While Taking a Stimulant(00:46:33) Dave Rings the Alarm on Formulating With Vitamin B6(00:50:53) Regulation & Quality Concerns in the Supplement Industry(00:57:41) Key Ingredients in Thesis’ Clarity & Logic Formulas That Drive Real Results(01:04:28) Unlocking Your Potential Through the Power of FocusResourcesDave Asprey’s NEW Book ‘Smarter Not Harder’ is out now: https://daveasprey.com/books Website: takethesis.com and use code “Asprey” for a 10% off all Thesis products.Instagram: @takethesisFacebook: Take ThesisThe Human Upgrade is produced by Crate Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

12 Des 20231h 12min

Cynthia Thurlow joins the show to talk about how intermittent fasting can help women change their body, metabolic system and brain function. She has tips for women at all stages: from active menstrual cycles to perimenopause to menopause.Cynthia is a Johns Hopkins-trained nurse practitioner and functional nutritionist founded and serves as CEO of Everyday Wellness Project. She holds a Master of Science degree in Nursing and Functional Nutrition certifications with advanced trainings in Endocrinology and Gastroenterology. Her career in healthcare includes nearly 20 years of emergency medicine and cardiology experience. She brings a broad perspective when working with women to improve the state of their health. “I really start from a foundational level talking to women about fasting,” Cynthia says. “It's really honoring our own unique physiology. It's leaning into that menstrual cycle. It's leaning into the lifestyle piece that so much of us forget to talk about with our patients, our sleep quality, stress management, anti-inflammatory nutrition, our exercise quality, our connection with nature, all of which are critically important.”She also addresses diet dogma that frustratingly persists, even with established and emerging science about the benefits of intermittent fasting.She tackles this outdated dogma (and a lot more!) in her new book, “Intermittent Fasting Transformation: The 45-Day Program for Women to Lose Stubborn Weight, Improve Hormonal Health, and Slow Aging.”“[Intermittent fasting] restores our intrinsic rhythms, burns fat, regenerates our health right down to the cellular level, and stabilizes our hormones,” Cynthia says in her book. “In turn, we are less likely to develop obesity, diabetes, vascular diseases, and autoimmune disorders.”At the end of this conversation, you’ll have the tools to decide if intermittent fasting is the right choice for the state of your own health.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

7 Des 20231h 5min

Dive into a captivating exploration of human biology and connection—erotic blueprints. Discover four primal drivers: fear, food, friends, and fertility, with a unique focus on fertility in this episode.Miss Jaiya, a leader in somatic sexology, sheds light on the intimate realm of human relationships and pleasure. As an award-winning somatic sexologist and creator of The Erotic Blueprints® Framework, Jaiya dedicates her expertise to helping people understand their unique erotic blueprints and their impact on intimate lives. Her latest book, "Your Blueprint for Pleasure," offers invaluable insights into a revolutionary language for bedroom communication and sexual vitality.This episode delves into the concept of erotic blueprints, Jaiya's research, and the unique paths to turn-on and blissful gratification for each individual. This conversation aims to understand people's true desires and needs in intimate relationships, free from taboos or judgment.Highlighting that sex and intimacy are vital for well-being, just like food and breathing, this discussion includes personal experiences and emphasizes the importance of vulnerability. Learn how understanding your erotic blueprint can enhance connections and satisfaction in the bedroom.Whether seeking to enrich intimate life or deepen understanding of human biology and connection, this episode offers valuable insights for everyone.(01:34) Reconciling Spirituality & Sexuality: Jaiya’s Sexual Empowerment Journey(12:00) Why Sex Is the New Frontier of Personal Growth & Biohacking(15:25) Jaiya’s Wildest Energetically Erotic Experience(21:35) Conscious Kink & Blending Psychedelics With Sexuality(30:52) Your Pleasure Blueprint: Defining the 5 Erotic Types(34:55) Discovering the Erotic Blueprint Through Her Own Relationship(40:01) Addressing the Intimacy Issue in Our World & Sending Love Through the Field(46:44) Confronting the Taboo of Pleasure(52:11) Mastering Energetic Sexuality & Orgasms(01:01:48) Risks in Using Psychedelics for Creation Energy(01:06:49) The Dark Side of Spiritual Ecstatic Altered States & How To Protect Your FieldResourcesDave Asprey’s NEW Book ‘Smarter Not Harder’ is out now: https://daveasprey.com/books Website: blueprintbreakthrough.comRead: Your Blueprint For Pleasure by Jaiya Instagram: @missjaiyaThe Human Upgrade is produced by Crate Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

5 Des 20231h 24min

I am excited to chat with a longtime friend who is a fellow expert in how to make your brain work better. Jim Kwik is an absolute wizard when it comes to maximizing your brain's potential. We go way back, over a decade, and I can vouch for his incredible expertise in the realm of cognitive enhancement. He also has just released an expanded addition to his best-selling book, Limitless, where he delves deep into topics that both he and I hold near and dear—nootropics and brain enhancement. Jim Kwik is a widely recognized world expert in memory improvement, brain function, and accelerated learning. After a childhood brain injury left him learning-challenged, Kwik created strategies to dramatically enhance his mental performance. He has since dedicated his life to helping others unleash their true genius. In addition to being an author, he serves as ultra-informed host of the top education training podcast: Kwik Brain. His mission: No brain left behind.From overcoming childhood adversity and turning it into a superpower, to the secrets behind better memory and accelerated learning, this episode is full of tools for enhancing cognitive function. Plus, we explore the groundbreaking concepts Jim covers in Limitless: Expanded, including the use of nootropics to elevate brain function, his favorite daily biohacking techniques and brain exercises, and how identifying your brain animal can enhance your self awareness and therefore potential. (00:01:44) Jim Kwik’s Inspiring Brain Health Journey(00:10:18) Top 5 Most Recommended Nootropics(00:16:49) Supplements for Brain Health & Longevity(00:23:32) Jim’s Biohacking Must-Haves & Daily Routine(00:29:53) Healing the Emotional Thread & Embracing Post-Traumatic Growth(00:36:03) Top Exercises for Your Brain(00:47:41) C.O.D.E. – Understanding Your Brain Animal (Cognitive Type)(00:55:57) Leveraging Self-Awareness as a SuperpowerResourcesDave Asprey’s NEW Book ‘Smarter Not Harder’ is out now: https://daveasprey.com/books Website: jimkwik.comRead: Limitless Expanded by Jim KwikPodcast: Kwik BrainInstagram: @jimkwikYouTube: Jim KwikLinkedIn: Jim KwikThe Human Upgrade is produced by Crate Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

30 Nov 20231h 10min

Today’s guest is nothing short of a modern-day Willy Wonka for Generation X. He built a billion-dollar ecstasy business in the '90s and did not end up behind bars. That's a story you've got to hear. Our guest today, Shaahin Cheyene, not only dabbled in the wild world of herbal ecstasy but also managed to stay out of trouble despite being investigated by seven attorney generals. And get this, he wasn't even 18 when he pulled off these daring feats.Shaahin's story doesn't stop there. Since those days, he's become an Amazon expert, successfully selling nootropics and a variety of other products on the platform. He's also a filmmaker and author of the book, “Billion: How I Became the King of the Thrill Pill Cult.” From Fleeing Iran at the age of five to being homeless and living out of his car, Shaahin's journey is nothing short of remarkable. It's safe to say he's one of the most interesting individuals I've had the pleasure of interviewing. We dive into Shaahin's captivating journey, exploring his transformation from a young criminal to a thriving entrepreneur. You’ll also learn about what went into his groundbreaking herbal ecstasy formula and how he managed to get his business off the ground. Along the way, we discuss the challenges of navigating the bureaucracy of big government, the importance of seeking help when needed, and the valuable lessons Shaahin learned from building and eventually exiting his herbal ecstasy empire. We also delve into how he managed to run a nine-figure company selling on Amazon, the mindset benefits of Brazilian jiu-jitsu training, the power of curating ideas, and how you can strategically leverage podcasts as an entrepreneur. Join us on a ride you won't want to miss.(01:47) How Shaahin Became the King of the Thrill Pill Cult(07:36) Formulating Herbal Ecstasy & Building a Million-Dollar Business(16:34) Navigating the Bureaucracy of Big Government(28:04) Pro Tip for Entrepreneurs: Why It’s Important To Ask for Help(32:09) What Cheyene Learned From Building & Exiting His Business(37:29) What To Do When You Make Your First Million(39:21) Scaling a 9-Figure Company Selling on Amazon(45:05) Lessons From Martial Arts & Our Bets on Musk vs Zuckerberg(54:03) The Tactical Advantage of Podcasting & Being a Curator of Ideas(01:03:30) Media Training 101ResourcesDave Asprey’s NEW Book ‘Smarter Not Harder’ is out now: https://daveasprey.com/books Website: shaahincheyenne.comPodcastCola: podcastcola.comInstagram: @shaahincheyenePodcast: Business Story of the WeekLinkedIn: Shaahin CheyeneThe Human Upgrade is produced by Crate Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

28 Nov 20231h 9min

I’ve been eagerly looking forward to this conversation with a dear friend and a true luminary in the realm of relationships and personal development, John Gray. for quite some time. You probably recognize his name as the author of the famous book, Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus. But what's especially exciting is how John has evolved his insights to address the changing dynamics between men and women in the modern world, as he highlighted in his 2020 book, Beyond Mars and Venus: Relationship Skills for Today's Complex World.Now, why is this episode a must-listen? Well, John isn't just a relationship expert; he's also a seasoned biohacker who understands the profound impact of our environment – including relationships – on our hormones, happiness, and dopamine levels. In essence, he's been biohacking before it even had a name. With decades of wisdom, he offers invaluable insights into navigating the complexities of male-female relationships in today's world.Delve into the fundamental differences between men and women, the importance of appreciation in relationships, what truly motivates men, and practical tips on boosting testosterone and managing emotions. We also explore how men and women process feelings differently, the art of setting boundaries, and the language of love as the language of hormones.Get ready for a masterclass in understanding the dynamics of modern relationships and how to create lasting happiness.(00:59) Understanding Fundamental Differences Between Men & Women(04:38) Do Men Exist To Make Women Happy?(06:32) Exploring What Drives & Motivates Men(11:09) How To Boost Testosterone & Navigate Emotions(19:14) Why Men Disconnect When Talking About Feelings(30:22) How Men Can Help Women Come Back Into Balance(39:17) Setting Boundaries & Working on Your Relationship(49:41) Advice for Women for How To Talk About Their Feelings With Their Partner(01:02:22) Why the Language of Love Is the Language of Hormones(01:05:48) What Women Need in a Relationship(01:13:07) The Defense Against Attacks on Your Reputation(01:17:49) Techniques for Processing Emotions(01:25:32) Thoughts on Estrogen Receptor Degraders(01:31:48) What Masturbation Does to Men vs. Women(01:37:42) Advice for Couples Not Having SexResourcesDave Asprey’s NEW Book ‘Smarter Not Harder’ is out now: https://daveasprey.com/books Website: marsvenus.comRead: Beyond Venus and Mars by John GrayInstagram: @johngraymarsvenus_officialLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/marsvenusThe Human Upgrade is produced by Crate Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

21 Nov 20231h 45min