Muscle Intelligence

In this episode of the Muscle Intelligence Podcast, Ben Pakulski sits down with Dr. Scott Sherr to uncover the hidden drivers of burnout, fatigue, and accelerated aging. Together they explore how trauma, sympathetic overdrive, and mitochondrial dysfunction silently undermine performance and recovery.   Dr. Sherr explains why 94% of adults have impaired mitochondrial health and how tools like methylene blue, metabolomic testing, and hyperbaric therapy can reset energy production at the cellular level. Whether you’re a high-performing executive or simply someone feeling stuck in stress mode, this conversation provides a blueprint for balancing your nervous system, reclaiming energy, and extending healthspan.   5 Bullet Points: How trauma traps your nervous system in overdrive The link between mitochondria and lasting energy Daily practices to reset stress physiology Methylene blue’s role in cellular performance Why longevity starts with cellular optimization   About Ben Ben Pakulski is the Chief Performance Officer to elite executives, successful entrepreneurs, and top athletes.With over 25 years of experience, he coaches high achievers to build the physical, psychological, and metabolic resilience required to lead at the highest level. As the creator of the Muscle Intelligence framework, Ben specializes in aligning biology and behavior to drive sustained peak performance. His mission is to redefine what’s possible for people in their prime and push the boundaries of human potential.   About Dr. Sherr Dr. Scott Sherr is an internationally recognized physician and pioneer in Health Optimization Medicine. With expertise in hyperbaric therapy and metabolomics, he helps high performers restore energy, recovery, and resilience at the cellular level. As co-founder of Health Optimization Medicine, he trains physicians in metabolomics, chronobiology, and epigenetics. He also leads at Troscriptions, developing tools like methylene blue to enhance mitochondrial function and nervous system balance. His mission: move people beyond decline to lasting performance and longevity, optimizing health from the cell up.   Dr.Scott Sherr's Website: https://drscottsherr.com/ Dr. Scott Sherr's Instagram: @drscottsherr

Curt Mitchell, a decorated U.S. Army veteran with two decades in the Green Berets, shares invaluable insights from his military journey. He discusses strategies for mental resilience and peak performance, emphasizing stress mastery and operational readiness. Curt humorously touches on training foreign military units and the humorous side of army life. He also highlights the importance of critical thinking in an information-saturated world, and how military discipline can enhance civilian life, health, and leadership skills.

Discover why most men over 40 struggle to build muscle despite their efforts. Learn about the critical '3 Ps'—posture, position, and path—that are essential for unlocking real growth. Uncover the dangers of bad form and how it sabotages your gains. Understand the importance of precision in exercise execution and intentional challenges to truly engage your muscles. Plus, find out how incorporating dynamic movements can enhance lifelong health and prevent injuries for better performance.

Eric Janicki, a fitness expert and bodybuilder with over 20 years of experience, shares his inspiring journey of packing on 85 pounds of muscle after 30. He emphasizes the power of full range of motion and its pivotal role in injury prevention. Janicki dives into his intense training approach that aligns with pain-free movement and discusses the importance of mental resilience in bodybuilding. He also shares insights on building a business around his passion and the potential of future fitness tech, promising a transformative perspective for anyone in the weightlifting community.

In this insightful discussion, Eduardo De Souza, a top hypertrophy researcher and professor at the University of Tampa, shares his expertise on muscle growth measurement. He reveals why MRI is the gold standard and the limitations of ultrasound. The impact of aging on muscle quality is explored, highlighting the need for resistance training in older adults. They debunk myths about training volume, discuss the balance between anabolism and catabolism, and delve into genetics and recovery. The conversation is a treasure trove for anyone serious about optimizing their training.

Dominic D’Agostino, a leading researcher at Moffitt Cancer Center, dives into innovative metabolic therapies for fighting cancer. He shares insights from his 15 years of research on how ketones and fasting can suppress tumor growth. You'll discover the importance of personalizing your glucose-ketone index and how metabolic health serves as a frontline defense against cancer. Currently trending topics include the connection between dietary habits and cancer prevention, along with the implications of using ketone therapy to enhance immune response.

Dr. Jordan Shallow, a performance specialist, shares his transformative journey from facing personal crises to redefining athletic training. He discusses how pain and anxiety can trigger profound personal evolution and emphasizes the importance of treating movement as a learning process. The conversation delves into the neurological differences in elite athletes and the necessity of updating one’s mental frameworks. Shallow also highlights the significance of authenticity, community support, and the influence of one’s environment on personal growth.

Jay Campbell, a peptide and hormone optimization expert, shares his insights on the future of longevity and health. The conversation dives into the transformative power of peptides, particularly mitochondrial options like SS-31, and the complexities of safe sourcing. They explore the impacts of GLP-1 drugs, microdosing, and bioregulators for aging systems. With a focus on personal health and integrity, Jay discusses practical strategies for integrating these advancements into daily life to optimize performance and energy.

Discover the journey of turning 80 and still being an elite athlete. Learn why cookie-cutter fitness advice fails and how to align training with your unique genetic makeup. Explore the four essential capabilities every man must optimize for longevity. Ben emphasizes personalized health strategies over trends, revealing a mindset shift crucial for sustaining performance. He shares insights on navigating life choices through personal values and the innovative concept of genetic harmonization to enhance athletic success.

Discover how reflection can unlock your potential in 2025! The discussion highlights eight essential domains that every man should evaluate for peak performance. From fitness to finances, learn to identify gaps and align your schedule with your true values. Ben emphasizes the importance of realigning focus, turning intention into action. Plus, get inspired by practical systems that encourage authentic living and commitment. This is your call to stop coasting and start leading a fulfilling life!