Is alcohol losing its grip as the go-to social drink?

Enter kava—a centuries-old Polynesian plant that’s gaining global recognition for its ability to relax the mind, elevate mood, and enhance social connection without the toxic effects of alcohol. Kava, particularly in the form of TRU KAVA, is a psychoactive yet non-intoxicating drink that offers the perfect balance of calm focus and mental clarity.

In this episode, Dave Asprey welcomes Cameron George, founder of TRU KAVA, to discuss why kava is becoming the drink of choice for those seeking a healthier, more connected lifestyle. Learn how kava impacts neurotransmitters like GABA and dopamine, enhances creativity and emotional grounding, and even helps the body recover from stress and trauma. Discover why kava is taking center stage in the biohacking and sober-curious movements as a new tool for wellness and connection.

Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:

• Why 41% of Americans and 61% of Gen Z are drinking less alcohol

• What kava is, how it works, and its history as a ceremonial and social beverage

• The science behind kava’s calming and neuroprotective effects

• How kava supports creativity, emotional resilience, and authentic social connection

• Practical uses for kava, including stress relief, sleep enhancement, and travel recovery

Resources:

• 2025 Biohacking Conference – https://biohackingconference.com/2025

• TRU KAVA – https://www.trukava.com

• TRU KAVA Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/trukava

• Danger Coffee – https://dangercoffee.com

• Danger Coffee Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/dangercoffeeofficial/

• Dave Asprey’s Website – https://daveasprey.com

• Dave Asprey’s Book: Smarter Not Harder – https://daveasprey.com/books

• Dave Asprey’s Linktree – https://linktr.ee/daveasprey

• Upgrade Collective: Join The Human Upgrade Podcast Live – https://www.ourupgradecollective.com

• Own an Upgrade Labs – https://ownanupgradelabs.com

• Upgrade Labs – https://upgradelabs.com

• 40 Years of Zen – Neurofeedback training for advanced cognitive enhancement – https://40yearsofzen.com

Sponsors:

-Quantum Upgrade |Go to https://quantumupgrade.io/Dave for a free trial.

-Timeline | Head to https://www.timeline.com/dave to get 10% off your first order.

Timestamps:

• 00:00 Intro

• 00:37 Introduction to Alcohol Trends

• 01:57 Meet Cameron George and TRU KAVA

• 02:29 What is Kava?

• 05:03 Kava’s Effects on the Brain

• 06:53 Kava vs. Alcohol

• 08:54 Active Compounds in Kava

• 10:10 Kava’s Safety and Standardization

• 16:17 Kava in Social Settings

• 21:28 Kava and Psychedelics

• 31:26 Kava for Public Speaking and Anxiety

• 34:04 Kava in the Workplace: Enhancing Team Creativity

• 35:22 Kava and Libido: The Unexpected Benefits

• 36:06 Biohacking with Kava: Energy Allocation and Community

• 39:00 Kava’s Role in Meditation and Emotional Awareness

• 42:04 Kava During Pregnancy: Safety and Traditions

• 44:37 Kava’s Neuroprotective Properties: A Deep Dive

• 45:49 Kava and EMF Sensitivity: A Surprising Connection

• 48:39 Kava for Frequent Travelers: Enhancing Mitochondrial Health

• 52:46 Kava and Metabolic Health: Fasting and Fat Burning

• 57:14 Kava Products: Oils, Beverages, and Their Uses

• 01:01:27 The Future of Kava: Social Impact and Cultural Integration

• 01:05:28 Conclusion: The Potential of Kava in Modern Society

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5 Points for Living an Authentic Life - Part 1