Tetragrammaton with Rick Rubin

Andrew Huberman, Ph.D. (Part 1)

24 snips
Sep 17, 2025
Dr. Andrew Huberman, a renowned neuroscientist and professor at Stanford, shares fascinating insights on how light and cortisol impact health and performance. He explains the importance of morning sunlight for energy and focus while discussing its effects on sleep. Huberman also delves into the biological significance of natural scents on memory and emotions. Reflecting on turning 50, he intertwines personal experiences of loss with thoughts on mental health and legacy, encouraging listeners to embrace the present and nurture meaningful connections.
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
INSIGHT

Morning Cortisol Is An Energy Signal

  • Cortisol is an energy-deploying hormone that spikes after waking to release energy for brain and muscles.
  • Viewing bright light in the first 60–90 minutes after waking amplifies this morning cortisol spike and sets a healthy daily cortisol curve.
ADVICE

Get Sunlight Within 90 Minutes

  • Get bright light in your eyes within the first 60–90 minutes after waking, ideally sunlight or a 10,000 lux lamp in winter.
  • Do this daily to boost daytime alertness and ensure low evening cortisol for better sleep.
INSIGHT

Cortisol And Melatonin Are Opponents

  • Cortisol and melatonin are directly antagonistic; high cortisol suppresses melatonin and vice versa.
  • Spiking morning cortisol via light helps melatonin rise at night, improving sleep.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app