Brad Stulberg and Steve Magness, cofounders of The Growth Equation and authors of several acclaimed books, dive into the world of 2023 wellness trends. They dissect the cold plunge craze, weighing its actual benefits against cultural hype. The duo also examines caffeine's role in performance and the complexities of moderate alcohol consumption, revealing its health impacts. With a thoughtful look at fitness trackers, they stress the importance of simple, foundational health habits over fleeting fads, promoting a balanced approach to wellness.
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Cold Plunge Considerations
Consider cold plunges if they improve your mood, but they aren't a magic cure.
Don't expect significant weight loss or long-term mood changes.
insights INSIGHT
Cold Plunges and Athletes
Cold plunges are best for athletes in-season needing quick recovery.
Regular exercisers should avoid them post-workout, as they hinder muscle adaptation.
insights INSIGHT
Cold Plunge Misconceptions
Cold plunges cause hormone release, but so do other activities like walking.
The metabolic benefits of cold plunges are minimal, burning only a few extra calories.
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A Transformative Path to Success That Feeds--Not Crushes--Your Soul
Brad Stulberg
In this book, Brad Stulberg presents a healthier model for success that counters the 'always-on' hustle culture. Groundedness, the central concept, values presence over productivity, accepts nonlinear progress, and prioritizes long-term fulfillment. The book interweaves case studies, modern science, and ancient wisdom from Buddhism, Stoicism, and Taoism to teach readers how to cultivate a more grounded life. Key practices include accepting where you are, being present, developing patience, embracing vulnerability, building deep community, and focusing on the process rather than outcomes.
Do Hard Things
A Teenage Rebellion Against Low Expectations
Harris, Alex, Harris, Brett
In 'Do Hard Things,' Alex and Brett Harris combat the idea of adolescence as a vacation from responsibility. They weave together biblical insights, history, and modern examples to redefine the teen years as the launching pad of life. The book maps out five powerful ways teens can respond for personal and social change, and is packed with humorous personal anecdotes, practical examples, and stories of real-life 'rebelutionaries' in action. It challenges a generation to lay claim to a brighter future, starting today.
Peak Performance
Elevate Your Game, Avoid Burnout, and Thrive with the New Science of Success
Brad Stulberg
Steve Magness
Peak Performance uncovers the common principles that drive success in different domains, from athletics to intellectual and artistic pursuits. The book combines stories of top performers with scientific insights into cognitive and neurochemical factors that enhance performance. It teaches readers how to optimize their performance by alternating between intense work and rest, priming the body and mind for productivity, and developing a self-transcending purpose. The authors provide practical advice on managing stress, prioritizing rest and sleep, and setting meaningful goals to avoid burnout and achieve peak performance.
Today, we go wading in the murky waters of 2023 wellness trends. We’re talking cold plunges, fitness trackers, and recovery scores. And on the more prosaic side, the real science of coffee and alcohol.
Today’s guests are Brad Stulberg and Steve Magness. They are the cofounders of The Growth Equation, a multimedia platform dedicated to health, excellence, and well-being. They are authors of ‘Peak Performance,’ ‘Do Hard Things,’ and ‘The Practice of Groundedness.’ And for quite a while I have considered them to be ideal guides in this hype-filled world of biomarkers, biohacks, and fitness.
Plain English with Derek Thompson 
