The Optispan Podcast with Matt Kaeberlein

I'm Taking TESTOSTERONE: My Story, Mistakes & Insights From a Longevity Perspective | 120

Jul 31, 2025

Kevin White, a medical clinician specializing in hormone replacement and men's health, joins Matt to explore the journey of testosterone therapy. They discuss the initial signs of low testosterone, the mistakes made when starting treatment, and the importance of understanding lab results beyond total testosterone. Kevin provides insights on managing side effects, the debate between oral and injectable forms, and the link between testosterone levels and overall health. The conversation also tackles common myths and emphasizes the role of lifestyle changes alongside therapy.

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ANECDOTE

Delayed Diagnosis From Limited Testing

Matt Kaeberlein discovered low free testosterone due to high SHBG after his primary care only measured total testosterone.
He tried lifestyle changes and supplements before concluding he was likely testosterone deficient.

ADVICE

Exhaust Natural Options First

Try lifestyle first: improve diet, sleep, exercise, and reduce alcohol before starting testosterone.
Repeat blood tests over months to see if these changes move SHBG and free testosterone.

INSIGHT

Primary vs Secondary Hypogonadism Matters

Elevated LH and FSH with low testosterone point to primary hypogonadism from the testicles.
Differentiating primary vs secondary hypogonadism guides distinct treatments like TRT or Clomid/HCG.

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Subscribe to our channel: https://www.youtube.com/@optispanGet Our Newsletter (It's Free): https://www.optispan.life/Longevity scientist Dr. Matt Kaeberlein shares his personal and candid journey with testosterone therapy, from initial symptoms and hesitation to the mistakes he made starting out. This conversation breaks down the real-world benefits, side effects, and essential lab work, offering a science-based guide for men considering TRT.0:00 - Why I'm Sharing My Story2:05 - The First Signs & My Doctor's Dismissal6:22 - Trying to Fix It Myself (Lifestyle & Supplements)15:26 - The Decision: My Biggest Fears About TRT20:51 - My First Mistake: Oral vs. Injections27:05 - The Results: How It Changed My Health28:40 - Real Talk: The Benefits & Side Effects44:27 - Debunking TRT Myths (Aging & Lifespan)Production: Nicholas Arapis, https://videocastproductions.comDISCLAIMER: The information provided on the Optispan podcast is intended solely for general educational purposes and is not meant to be, nor should it be construed as, personalized medical advice. No doctor-patient relationship is established by your use of this channel. The information and materials presented are for informational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We strongly advise that you consult with a licensed healthcare professional for all matters concerning your health, especially before undertaking any changes based on content provided by this channel. The hosts and guests on this channel are not liable for any direct, indirect, or other damages or adverse effects that may arise from the application of the information discussed. Medical knowledge is constantly evolving; therefore, the information provided should be verified against current medical standards and practices.More places to find us:Twitter: https://twitter.com/optispanpodcastTwitter: https://twitter.com/optispanTwitter: https://twitter.com/mkaeberleinLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/optispanInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/optispanpodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@optispanhttps://www.optispan.life/Hi, I'm Matt Kaeberlein. I spent the first few decades of my career doing scientific research into the biology of aging, trying to understand the finer details of how humans age in order to facilitate translational interventions that promote healthspan and improve quality of life. Now I want to take some of that knowledge out of the lab and into the hands of people who can really use it.On this podcast I talk about all things aging and healthspan, from supplements and nutrition to the latest discoveries in longevity research. My goal is to lift the veil on the geroscience and longevity world and help you apply what we know to your own personal health trajectory. I care about quality science and will always be honest about what I don't know. I hope you'll find these episodes helpful!