The Genius Life

This episode features Dr. Ben Rein, a neuroscientist and author of *Why Brains Need Friends*, who explores the dire consequences of social isolation. He reveals how loneliness acts like a biological stressor, increasing risks for health issues as severe as heart disease and dementia. Dr. Rein discusses the concept of a 'social diet,' emphasizing the importance of calibrating social interactions. He also highlights how pets can bolster our social health and shares insights on the dangers of relying too much on digital connections over real ones.

Anna Runkle, known as the Crappy Childhood Fairy, is a YouTube creator and trauma educator who helps others unlock healthier relationships. In a candid discussion, Anna reveals three trauma-driven behaviors—avoidance, lashing out, and accepting toxicity—that can harm connections. She distinguishes between PTSD and complex PTSD, shares effective re-regulation techniques, and emphasizes the power of somatic practices over traditional talk therapy. Anna also offers practical social skills to foster connectability and rebuild relationships, making this conversation both insightful and uplifting.

Gabby Reece, a legendary athlete and wellness entrepreneur, shares her timeless wisdom on aging gracefully. She dives into how sports shaped her approach to lifelong movement and the importance of recovery. Gabby reflects on past training missteps and emphasizes a balanced philosophy of success through daily discipline and radical honesty. She also discusses building lasting relationships, her parenting approach, and how to redefine strength in aging, all while balancing modern tech with primal needs.

Suzy Welch, a bestselling author and NYU professor, shares her expertise on finding true purpose through a science-backed framework. She discusses the pitfalls of following passion alone and introduces a comprehensive method that aligns values, aptitudes, and interests. Suzy emphasizes the importance of self-awareness in career choices and the role of economic viability in pursuing passions. With actionable steps, she guides listeners on how to assess their values and career alignment, ultimately aiming for a fulfilling life where everything converges.

Dr. Kelly Casperson, a skilled urologist and menopause advocate, unpacks the myths surrounding menopause and hormone therapy. She highlights how outdated training has led to misinformation about treatments and addresses the stigmas around bioidentical hormones. Kelly discusses the role of vaginal estrogen in improving women's health, debunks harmful myths from the past, and emphasizes the importance of individualized hormone therapy. She also touches on the critical timing for starting hormone discussions, offering empowering insights for women's health.

Dr. Aimie Apigian, a double board-certified physician and trauma expert, shares insights from her book, *The Biology of Trauma*. She explores how trauma shapes our nervous system and offers practical tools for healing. Topics include the internal nature of trauma, the role of early development, and the potential for neuroplasticity to rewire trauma responses. Aimie discusses somatic techniques for immediate regulation and how stress and trauma differ. She also emphasizes the importance of understanding biochemical imbalances in treating trauma.

Ryan Star, a rock singer-songwriter and founder of the music platform Stationhead, shares his journey from music to tech. He discusses the evolving role of AI in creativity and the importance of shared musical experiences. Ryan reflects on the emotional connection of live performances and the unique energy they bring. With insights on songwriting, mental health, and the challenges of transitioning to entrepreneurship, he emphasizes authenticity in art and how music can foster community. The conversation concludes with a powerful live performance from his album Angels + Animals.

Explore the importance of prioritizing protein and whole foods over organic labels while minimizing ultra-processed options. Delve into the nuanced effects of saturated fat and learn key supplements for men, including whey and omega-3s. Discover the cognitive impacts and risks of nicotine pouches, along with practical advice on magnesium and creatine. Plus, hear tips for travel nutrition and recovery, including insights from personal experiences. Equip yourself with science-backed strategies for healthier living!

Dr. Jared Ament, a board-certified neurosurgeon, shares his insights on the pivotal role of spine health in longevity and quality of life. He emphasizes preventive strategies like hydration and posture. The conversation covers revolutionary spinal surgeries, including motion-preserving techniques, and the connections between spinal health, pain management, and even sexual function. Ament also discusses advancements in artificial discs and the importance of gut health in chronic pain, rounding off with a holistic view on health management.

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Bobby Parmar, a social psychologist and author of Radical Doubt, dives into the transformative power of uncertainty. He discusses how embracing doubt can enhance decision-making and encourage personal growth. Listeners learn about the psychological dynamics of overthinking versus productive doubt. Parmar also explores the impact of technology and social media on our perceptions, emphasizing the importance of resilience and adaptability in navigating challenges. He shares practical strategies for harnessing curiosity and creativity in leadership.