The Primal Shift 97: Are You Biohacking or Just Bullsh-tting?
Biohacking wasn't always about gadgets. It used to be about building a better lifestyle by fixing root causes with movement, light, food and sleep. But somewhere along the way, optimization gave way to outsourcing. Today, it's easy to mistake a tech solution for progress when it's really just a more expensive version of the same mistake: treating symptoms instead of addressing causes.
That shift was on full display at a recent biohacking conference I attended, where nearly every product promised better sleep, more energy or deeper calm — without requiring any meaningful change. The sales pitch has become eerily similar to Big Pharma: just take this "drug" and feel better… no behavior change required.
But health doesn't work like that. Wearing blue light blocking glasses while scrolling TikTok in bed misses the point. Slapping a mood gadget around your neck doesn't solve emotional imbalance. And leaning on sleep tech while ignoring your circadian rhythm or pounding caffeine at 4 p.m. won't fix recovery. Tools can support change, but too often, they delay it.
I use plenty of tech myself: cold plunges, saunas and wearables to name a few. But I use them with intention. If I lived near a freezing lake, I'd ditch the plunge. If tracking sleep started creating stress, I'd take the ring off. Tools are valuable only when they move us toward better habits — not when they distract us from them.
Ask yourself: is this device helping you build something real, or is it letting you avoid what needs to change? That's the litmus test. If you're micromanaging every glucose spike or feeling anxious about your recovery score, it might be time to simplify. You can't outsource health. You can only build it, one habit at a time.
Learn more: Pulsetto Review: Doctored Research and No Results: https://michaelkummer.com/pulsetto-review/ 92: Healthy Living Hacks That Save You Money Daily: https://www.primalshiftpodcast.com/92-healthy-living-hacks-that-save-you-money-daily/
94: Stop Wasting Your Money on These 9 Biohack Devices!: https://www.primalshiftpodcast.com/94-stop-wasting-your-money-on-these-9-biohack-devices/
Thank you to this episode's sponsor, Peluva!
Peluva makes minimalist shoes to support optimal foot, back and joint health. I started wearing Peluvas several months ago, and I haven't worn regular shoes since. I encourage you to consider trading your sneakers or training shoes for a pair of Peluvas, and then watch the health of your feet and lower back improve while reducing your risk of injury.
To learn more about why I love Peluva barefoot shoes, check out my in-depth review: https://michaelkummer.com/health/peluva-review/
And use code MICHAEL to get 10% off your first pair: https://michaelkummer.com/go/peluva
In this episode:
00:00 – Intro
00:15 – Biohacking defined
01:21 – Gadgets vs. habits
03:19 - My personal take
03:51 – Sauna & cold plunge
05:57 – Foundations of health
06:56 - I challenge you…
08:43 – Final thoughts
Find me on social media for more health and wellness content:
-
Website: https://michaelkummer.com/
-
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/michaelkummer/
-
Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/mkummer82
[Medical Disclaimer]
The information shared on this video is for educational purposes only, is not a substitute for the advice of medical doctors or registered dietitians (which I am not) and should not be used to prevent, diagnose, or treat any condition. Consult with a physician before starting a fitness regimen, adding supplements to your diet, or making other changes that may affect your medications, treatment plan, or overall health.
[Affiliate Disclaimer]
I earn affiliate commissions from some of the brands and products I review on this channel. While that doesn't change my editorial integrity, it helps make this channel happen. If you'd like to support me, please use my affiliate links or discount code.
#Biohacking #WellnessOptimization