Get Yourself Optimized

For episode 100, Orion Talmay takes the reins and turns the tables on her husband, Stephan Spencer. In our conversation today, Stephan pulls together some incredible information from past episodes, talking about some of the very best wisdom, tips and tricks, tools, and insights he’s gleaned from these 100 episodes of the Optimized Geek. If you aren’t a regular listener, this is a great place to start, because this episode is something of a snapshot of the very best and most valuable conversations that have taken place throughout the course of this podcast. In This Episode: [02:15] - Looking back to the first episode, what was Stephan thinking in creating this podcast? [04:35] - Stephan reveals what his purpose on earth is, which is ultimately to touch millions of lives. He also discusses what his ideal legacy would look like. [05:33] - One of the biggest changes that has happened in Stephan’s life since starting this show is his study of Kabbalah. [07:07] - Orion has seen Stephan grow and evolve over the four and a half years they’ve been together, she explains. Stephan then talks about some episodes that have influenced him in terms of spirituality or self-development. [08:56] - Stephan takes a moment to plug Orion’s podcast, Stellar Life. [09:51] - How does Stephan think that sexuality and spirituality tie together? After he answers, he and Orion discuss sexual blueprints. [12:33] - Stephan brings up Gary Chapman’s concept of five love languages, and he and Orion describe how these languages function within their relationship. [15:13] - We hear about some ideas that Stephan got about relationships from past guests on the Optimized Geek, and how he’s implementing these. [18:50] - Orion talks about a simple method of appreciation that can improve any relationship, because focusing on the good brings more positivity. [20:10] - Is there anything else about relationships that Stephan learned from his show and wants to share with the audience? [23:20] - Stephan explains that he has recently started going back to the gym and has hired a personal trainer, partly due to the impact of some of his guests. [25:47] - What is biohacking? Stephan and Orion talk about the definition, then discuss Dave Asprey. [27:44] - Stephan and Orion talk about stem cells, what they are, and why we should bank them for potential future use. [31:11] - We move onto the topic of brain hacking, starting out with mindset and morning rituals. [35:30] - Stephan talks about how he manages his time, and he and Orion then discuss recommendations for how to use time powerfully and effectively. [40:03] - Having just explained why most of us shouldn’t feel pressured to accomplish as much in a day as a celebrity, Orion asks Stephan about delegating. [43:00] - What does Stephan think are the most powerful traits of the most successful people in the world? [45:22] - Stephan offers tips on how to recognize that someone is lying. [48:12] - Orion digs deeper into a story that Stephan has just been sharing about how he overcame two of his major fears. [51:13] - Stephan and Orion are seminar junkies, Orion points out, and explains that this is why they know so much about these various topics. [53:46] - What are Stephan’s three top tips for optimizing your inner geek? 1. Establish new habits that will set you up for success. 2. Question your thoughts, because a lot of time they aren’t true. 3. Knowledge is power, so always be learning and optimizing and upleveling in every aspect of your life. Links and Resources: Kevin Kelly Byron Katie on the Optimized Geek Kabbalah Yehuda Ashkenazi on the Optimized Geek Karen Hoyos on the Optimized Geek Karen Hoyos on Stellar Life Stellar Life Jaiya on the Optimized Geek Jaiya on Stellar Life Oneness University Gary Chapman Love languages John Gray on the Optimized Geek Alison Armstrong on the Optimized Geek Harville Hendrix on the Optimized Geek Getting the Love You Want Imago therapy Chris Gatchis on the Optimized Geek Anita Chaperon on the Optimized Geek Michael Morelli on the Optimized Geek Mark Sisson on the Optimized Geek Dave Asprey on the Optimized GeekDave Asprey on Stellar Life The Bulletproof Diet Head Strong Dr. Harry Edelson on the Optimized Geek Hal Elrod on the Optimized Geek Raul Villacis on the Optimized Geek Ephraim Olschewski on the Optimized Geek David Allen on the Optimized Geek GTD methodology Things 3 app Tim Ferriss on the Optimized Geek Carolyn Ketchum on the Optimized Geek James Schramko on the Optimized Geek Brent Charleton on the Optimized Geek NLP Hypnosis Mike Mandel on the Optimized Geek Ken Dubner on the Optimized Geek Bart Baggett on the Optimized Geek Fred Gallo on the Optimized Geek Phil Town on the Optimized Geek  

Today I talk with Valerie Sheppard who is the bestselling author of Living Happy to Be ME. Besides being a popular coach, speaker, and author, she was previously the VP of Conagra Brands where she managed a popular food brand portfolio with net sales close to a billion dollars. She is also a catastrophic stroke survivor and believes in living life through happiness no matter what the situation. She has broken down achieving happiness down to a four step process and she shares that process with us today. Find Out More About Valerie Here: Living Happy To Be Me WebsiteLiving Happy to Be ME!:Dancing Your Soul LightstyleThe Heart of Living VibrantlyValerie on Twitter @ValerieSheppardValerie on FacebookValerie on LinkedInEvolutionary Business CouncilValerie@HappyToBeME.net In This Episode: [01:36] - How Valerie's book has become a labor of love. It is the result of her own journey of personal transformation. [02:39] - Valerie's four step process that she learned from her happiness journey. [03:47] - Waking up to the truth of who we are and living our magnificence essence. [04:34] - Shaking up and releasing things that aren't in alignment with our true selves. [05:30] - Making up a new story of a higher version of ourselves. [05:54] - Taking up the reins and living our new awakened life. [06:46] - How Valerie had the book ready to go before she had her stroke. She uses the information and the four steps every day. [08:39] - The story of the biggest surprise of Valerie's life which was the stroke. [11:28] - After the stroke, Valerie woke up 4 days later, unable to speak and paralyzed on her right side. [12:18] - She did regain her ability speak the next time she regained consciousness. [14:47] - How the stroke was an opportunity to welcome a more fulfilling way of living that doesn't depend on outer circumstances. [15:33] - Laughter can heal, keep a lightness about us and travel our journey in a lighter way. [17:53] - How Valerie wished that she had brought spirituality into her job. Her energy was filled with things she wanted to get rid of. Things like anger, fear, and guilt. [19:57] - She had to have an awakening and see herself through her own eyes and how other people saw her. [20:55] - How spirituality became the pillar of how she created her life. [23:52] - Valerie experienced heart attack systems and went to the emergency room. There was an effect on her heart that was potentially deadly. Yet, there wasn't a diagnosable cause. This process made Valerie begin to ask questions. [27:27] - Valerie was on a retreat and had an encounter in the woods with a buck deer and that was when she realized that she was wounded. [28:53] - Feeling a connection at a deeper level. [30:10] - Miracles happening one after the other after having an awakening. [31:49] - Valerie thought miracles happened in her life all the time. [33:45] - Wake up and realize who we are and that the biggest miracle is when we realize that we are miracles. [35:09] - Living in harmony with the universal laws. [35:42] - To be happier go inside and allow happiness inside of you. [37:20] - Nonviolent or Compassionate Communication. Communicating in a way that allows love and honor through communication. [39:28] - Heart-centered living and HeartMath tools. Studies the power that resides in the heart. There is rigorous science that underlies the organization. [42:09] - The soul lightstyle concept is about lightening up and letting go. [43:16] - Sacred Contracts or higher principles for living and knowing who we are at different levels. There are no accidents we are eternal beings. We have sacred contracts for those we come in contact with. [49:06] - How feeling loved needs to come from inside us. We embody love. [49:48] - Laughter Yoga is where laughter and yoga are combined as a practice because laughter is a healing modality. Improv is used with laughter and yoga. [56:08] - Meditation going into the silence and unplugging and cultivating a relationship with your inner self. Links and Resources: Oneness UniversityHeartMathHeartMath InstitutePodcast with Jonathan FieldsAmma the Hugging SaintLiving Happy To Be Me WebsiteLiving Happy to Be ME!:Dancing Your Soul LightstyleThe Heart of Living VibrantlyValerie on Twitter @ValerieSheppardValerie on FacebookValerie on LinkedInEvolutionary Business CouncilValerie@HappyToBeME.net

On the show today is Yehuda Ashkenazi. Yehuda is my Kabbalah teacher here in Los Angeles at the Kabbalah Centre, so I can vouch firsthand for his deep understanding of Kabbalistic principles and his ability to explain them clearly. Don’t worry if this Kabbalistic concept isn’t immediately clear, he will help to reveal and demystify some of the teachings and secrets of Kabbalah. We talk about transforming the negative into the positive, and how to align our outer physical world with our inner spiritual world. He has dramatically improved many lives, including mine, and I look forward to him changing yours as well! Find Out More About Yehuda Here: The Kabbalah Centre The Kabbalah Centre Los Angeles Kabbalah Centre Los Angeles on Facebook Yehuda Ashkenazi on Facebook @ashke72 on Twitter Yehuda Ashkenazi on YouTube In This Episode: [02:54] - Yehuda starts by explaining, in simple terms, what the 99% and the 1% mean in terms of the kabbalah. [05:10] - We learn more about the 99% and the 1% through an example that Yehuda provides about this podcast episode. Stephan then explains why the internal aspect is far more important than the external aspect. [07:07] - Yehuda shares a story about an experience with his own teacher that reveals the importance of intention. He then clarifies that we can’t live in a reality purely driven by intentions. [08:51] - Stephan brings up the kabbalah concept of the vessel. Yehuda then explores this concept, offering an analogy to explain what the vessel represents. [12:45] - Yehuda talks about the big-picture point of life from a kabbalistic standpoint, which, in simple terms, is achieving complete alignment with our purpose. [15:34] - Stephan talks about an exercise that Yehuda had him do in class that involved calling a loved one and asking them to offer one suggestion on how to improve oneself (and then seriously thinking and acting on the answer). [17:48] - We learn about the proactive formula and how to use it when we’re in a reactive state of mind. The first step, Yehuda explains, is to pause. [21:14] - Yehuda digs deeply into the second step of the proactive formula, which involves realizing that there is no external enemy, and the only enemy is your own reaction to the situation. [24:14] - Yehuda talks about “the opponent” as a kabbalistic concept, illustrating the game of life by talking about the game of tennis. [29:17] - Step number three is when we realize that the situation that seemed to be so challenging is actually coming from the light and is an opportunity for us to grow. [30:08] - Yehuda describes step four in the proactive formula. [32:08] - We hear a powerful story from Yehuda regarding a butcher who received a message from his father through a dream. [36:18] - Stephan brings us back to the example of giving a puzzle to a child. He and Yehuda then talk about the Bread of Shame and about the importance of putting in effort rather than simply receiving things. [39:44] - Yehuda explains the kabbalistic view of what occurs when someone receives lots of energy without having worked for it. [42:54] - Stephan talks about seeing money as simply energy, and the need for respecting that energy. Yehuda then compares money to breathing. [46:24] - Yehuda brings up an example to help listeners understand how energy works. [48:39] - Stephan explains why giving money to a homeless person isn’t tithing. Yehuda points out that this doesn’t mean it isn’t the right thing to do, but agrees that it’s different than tithing. They then discuss proactive versus reactive sharing. [52:17] - It’s easier for Stephan to donate time than money, but Yehuda explains that it’s the other way around for some people. [53:04] - Stephan shares one other idea about money that he learned from Yehuda, which is about respecting money. [56:53] - Yehuda shares some ways to get in touch with him and the Kabbalah Centre. Links and Resources: The Kabbalah Centre The Kabbalah Centre Los Angeles Kabbalah Centre Los Angeles on Facebook Yehuda Ashkenazi on Facebook @ashke72 on Twitter Yehuda Ashkenazi on YouTube Tikun The Bread of Shame Sea of Galilee Jordan River Tithing  

My guest today is Mike Mandel. Mike is intimately familiar with topics such as hypnosis, influence, and handwriting analysis, with 6 awards and 18 nominations to support that fact. We talk about the correlation between handwriting and crime, and whether or not you can adapt your writing to change your personality. He’ll teach you tricks of persuasion and tools for understanding yourself and others. You won’t want to miss this conversation with a man who is widely regarded as the world’s greatest hypnotist. Find Out More About Mike Here: mikemandelhypnosis.com Mike’s podcast Mike on YouTube @MandelHypnosis on Twitter In This Episode: [01:24] - Stephan shares a quick story about his first meeting with Mike, who then explains more about what he did during the incident in question. [06:51] - Mike explains how he can use the techniques he’s been describing in real life rather than in the particular situation he’s talked about. [08:07] - Mike discusses the patterns of eye movements and what these can indicate about a person’s thinking patterns. [11:37] - We learn more about the trick of having someone tell a story backwards to see whether it’s true. Mike then offers another tip for detecting lies. [13:16] - About 80% of people in the American penitentiary system have a trait in common in their handwriting. Mike then tells a story about reading a postcard from his late father and finding a deceit in it. [16:40] Does eliminating negative traits in your handwriting make you a better person? [18:15] - Mike offers a couple of tips for how listeners can add strength and power to their personality with simple handwriting changes. [19:57] - Stephan brings up some characteristics of his own handwriting, and Mike addresses what they mean. [22:48] - Mike discusses the types of handwriting he’s looked into, and describes how to access his entire graphology training. [24:22] - We learn more about how the words we use change our experiences. Mike points out that learning a new language changes our perception of time, and discusses the use of the word “try.” [27:21] - What are some words we should avoid when trying to influence someone? As part of his answer, Mike offers a powerful story of why it’s so important to tell someone under stress to “remain calm” rather than “don’t panic.” [31:36] - Mike moves on from talking about “don’t” to talking about “can’t.” He then discusses offering a double bind, in which either of two alternatives gets you exactly what you want. [35:13] - Two incredibly powerful words you can use to amplify someone’s behavior are incredibly simple: “that’s right.” [37:09] - Mike explains the power of the word “because” through a compelling (and entertaining) story about getting a teenager to clean his room. [43:05] - Stephan jokingly tries Mike’s techniques back on him. [43:58] - Mike shares one of his favorite moments from being a therapist. [47:49] - Mike turns the story he has just shared into a valuable takeaway for listeners, explaining how to apply the technique to everyday situations. [49:30] - How can you persuade someone to give you what something like a hotel room upgrade (for example) for free? [52:59] - We learn why not to ask someone “what’s wrong?”, but rather “what do you want?”. Mike then explains the power of quoting someone (anyone!) else when you’re saying something unpleasant. [55:51] - Mike talks about how to learn more from him and take advantage of the training that he offers. Links and Resources: mikemandelhypnosis.com Mike’s podcast Mike on YouTube @MandelHypnosis on Twitter Neil Strauss Ontario Police College Eye accessing patterns Richard Bandler John Grinder The felon’s claw Andrea McNichol Mike’s graphology training Arrival Milton Erickson Robert Cialdini Influence Hebb’s Law Transderivational search  

My guest on today’s podcast is Adam Siddiq who believes in using energetic discipline to optimize your soul, life and emotions to achieve peak performance and leave a positive impact on the world. If you’re listening to this show, you’re probably the type of person who’s enlightened enough to know that the healthy response to being cut off in traffic isn’t to succumb to shallow road rage, but rather to plug into forgiveness, understanding, and calm. But let’s be realistic: that’s far easier said than done. Adam brings incredible value to our conversation today, partly in his explanation of how he approaches this sort of everyday aggravating situation from an elevated response rather than letting himself fall into a reactive state. Find Out More About Adam Here: adamsiddiq.com Adam Siddiq on LinkedIn @AdamMSiddiq on Twitter @theadamsiddiq on Facebook In This Episode: [02:06] - What are some of the things Adam has done that have created the greatest impact in optimizing his soul and spirituality? [06:33] - One key thing to do is master your energy state, Adam reveals, and then explains why. [09:07] - Stephan gives the example of someone cutting you off on the freeway to demonstrate how easy it is to fall into a reactive state from the lower mind. Adam then explains how he comes at situations like this from a more elevated response. [13:54] - Adam relates a story Tony Robbins has told of meeting Nelson Mandela. He then relates this to what he has been saying about perspective and focusing on the bigger picture. [19:02] - For listeners who aren’t already familiar with the term, Adam explains what an entrainment is. [21:45] - Adam describes an experience he had at an airport when being between two payphones gave him an instantaneous migraine headache. He then memorably points out that “we’re drowning in information, but we’re starving for wisdom.” [26:14] - Stephan steps in for a moment to share a little bit of his own transformation, explaining that he’s completely unrecognizable from who he was before Tony Robbins helped him achieve a significant breakthrough. [27:27] - Adam and Stephan compare how many Tony Robbins events they have each been to. Stephan then explains that Tony Robbins is the reason he met his soulmate. [29:06] - We return to the topic of the three seasons: the season of discover, the season of transform, and the season of awaken. Stephan and Adam dig into this topic in more detail. [33:41] - Adam brings up the fourth (and most powerful) season, which is the season of integrate. [34:41] - Stephan talks about the perspective of someone who isn’t familiar with Donny and is seeing entrainment for the first time. He describes how odd it might look, then he and Adam talk about what causes the physical contortions involved in the process. [41:30] - Stephan describes what he has discovered about himself as an external person, and explains how the description of an external person matches his own traits and tendencies. Adam then shares a powerful multi-generational family story involving Donny’s entrainment process. [48:42] - Stephan draws out some of the threads of what Adam has been saying about his grandfather. He then shares one of his own profound entrainment experiences involving a former employee. [54:34] - We hear about Adam’s new book, Shackled, which tells his grandfather’s story. He describes some of his fascinating and intense family history. [60:01] - Adam outlines the second reason he wrote his recent book. [62:19] - We can change both the future and the past for our lineage, Stephan explains, if we come from a place of soulful connectedness. [64:00] - Adam finishes off the conversation by sharing some suggested resources for listeners. Links and Resources: adamsiddiq.com Adam Siddiq on LinkedIn @AdamMSiddiq on Twitter @theadamsiddiq on Facebook The Soulfully Optimized Life Shackled Donny Epstein Transformational Gate Chakras Tony Robbins Nelson Mandela Viktor Frankl Man’s Search for Meaning Alice Herz-Sommer Tony Robbins’ interview with Alice Herz-Sommer EPI Energetics Udo’s Oil Ultimatum Program The 12 Stages of Healing Healing Myths, Healing Magic The Boomerang Principle Cheryl Cran Deeksha oneness blessing Tony Robbins on Network Spinal Analysis & Dr. Donny Epstein Donny Epstein on The Soulfully Optimized Life Donny Epstein on the 2nd Tier of Consciousness Peter Diamandis Donny Epstein on Facebook  

Are you confused about what kind of diet to follow? Harvard educated psychologist Melanie Joy helps shed light on this controversial issue and how to choose a path that creates better health and aligns more with our basic human values. She even has tips for meat eaters to support a more sustainable lifestyle in a non-judgemental way. Dr. Joy explains how carnism, an invisible belief system or ideology that conditions us to eat certain animals affects all of our lives. Listen to this episode as we discuss taking back your power by choosing what you want to eat and making this a better planet regardless of your diet. Find Out More About Melanie Here: Carnism.orgMelanie Joy on Facebook@DrMelanieJoy on TwitterMelanie Joy on LinkedIn In This Episode: [02:52] - Melanie talks about why she wrote her new book, especially given the fact that she already has a book about carnism. Stephan then explains how his and his wife’s differing dietary choices have created tension in the past. [04:40] - What are Melanie’s top tips for someone in a situation where your partner has made different choices about their diet, specifically if one person is a vegetarian and the other isn’t? As she answers, Melanie also explains what carnism is. [06:39] - Melanie coined the term “carnism” herself, she explains. She also explores her background in studying the topics surrounding the choice to eat meat. [10:11] - How can you get through someone’s defense mechanisms regarding food, and effect change in their diets, without making them feel attacked, ashamed, or helpless? [13:46] - Melanie shares some examples of carnistic defense mechanisms and cognitive biases from carnism that have infiltrated society. Stephan then reveals that ag-gag laws make it illegal to document what’s going on in factory farms, and Melanie points out that even photographing the outside of a factory farm from a distance can be enough to send you to prison. [17:32] - Is it realistically possible to be outside the entire system of exploiting animal lives for our benefit? For example, even if we’re vegetarian, we may still wear leather belts or shoes. As she answers, Melanie brings up the idea of vegan allies, illustrating that even people who aren’t fully vegan can support vegan values and practices. [22:28] - Melanie explains how Stephan, a pescaterian, is being a vegan ally simply by having her on this podcast. [23:16] - Stephan explains that he was the last holdout in his family to become vegetarian. [24:42] - Melanie recommends two of her videos for listeners interested in learning more about standard industry practices for various animal products: Toward Rational, Authentic Food Choices (her TEDx talk) and Why We Love Dogs, Eat Pigs, and Wear Cows (her short video). She then discusses some of these practices and explains that egg and dairy production tend to be just as brutal as meat production. [29:25] - Stephan returns to a point Melanie has just mentioned: the health benefits of veganism. Melanie then recommends some resources: NutritionFacts.org, Dr. Michael Greger’s website and his book How Not to Die.  She also offers suggestions on some ways to reduce your meat intake. [33:56] - Stephan describes one of the prime examples in his life of seeing the general indoctrination into carnism. [35:18] - Does Melanie have any examples of her own that she wants to share? [37:11] - Melanie responds to Stephan’s description of what goes on in slaughterhouses by talking about how brutal the system is for the humans involved as well. [40:33] - Melanie explains that everywhere she goes, veganism is mushrooming. She believes that the world is shifting in such a way that veganism will become the dominant dietary choice in the future. [41:58] - What are some ways in which we can be part of the solution? [43:18] -  Melanie suggests some documentaries and movies for people who are interested in learning more. [44:12] - Stephan shares a story to help listeners understand more about how to make a difference, especially if you have kids. [47:41] - Melanie shares her perspective on whether animals have consciousness. [48:33] - We return briefly to Melanie’s story of having a bad experience with contaminated meat. Links and Resources: Carnism.orgMelanie Joy on Facebook@DrMelanieJoy on TwitterMelanie Joy on LinkedInWhy We Love Dogs, Eat Pigs, and Wear CowsInstitute of JainologyAhimsa AwardCarnismAg-gag lawsAcademy of Nutrition and DieteticsKathy FrestonForks Over KnivesFat Sick and Nearly DeadWhat the HealthCowspiracyNutritionFacts.orgMichael Greger M.D.How Not to DieFriend or Food? The Ideology of How We DecideSugar Molecule Links Red Meat Consumption and Elevated Cancer Risk in MiceToward Rational, Authentic Food Choices (Melanie’s TEDx talk)Why We Love Dogs, Eat Pigs, and Wear Cows (short video by Melanie)

Sam Morris, my guest on the show today, after being paralyzed in 1999, was determined not to be the victim of his circumstances. Would you be angry? Resentful? Bitter? All of those are understandable human reactions, but shifting your perspective can turn that injury (or any other tragic accident) into a gift and a catalyst for change in your life and the lives of countless others. Facing his physical paralysis head-on allowed him to see other kinds of paralysis (such as mental or emotional paralysis) for what they are, and to help others overcome them through his Zen Warrior Training. In fact, Sam now experiences more vitality and clarity than he had before his accident. We talk about all that and more in this conversation. Find Out More About Sam Here: Sam Morris on LinkedInSam Morris on Facebook@zwtraining on Twitter@zenwarriortraining on Facebook@zenwarriortraining on InstagramZen Warrior Training In This Episode: [01:58] - Sam starts things off by sharing his story. [03:31] - We hear about Sam’s current mindset about his injury and its consequences. He makes clear that he has to be intentional about seeing his injury as a gift. [04:59] - Would Sam say that his Zen Warrior Training wouldn’t exist if he hadn’t been injured? As he answers, he points out that just about everyone has some kind of paralyzing event -- even if they aren’t literally paralyzed (as he is). [06:50] - The most important part of the Zen mindset is welcoming every experience without judgment. [08:47] - Sam explains that reacting to the way that things are is giving up our power to make a choice about how to experience our circumstances. He then digs into what “surrender” means. [10:36] - There is one thing that we can control; Sam explains what it is, and reveals its importance through a personal example. [14:55] - Sam talks about breath training, which he finds to be one of the most effective tools for him. [17:19] - We hear more about the relation between breath training and mindfulness, with Sam explaining that we connect to spirit through connecting to the breath. Once more, he offers a powerful personal example to explain his perspective. [23:28] - Has Sam had that level of profound experience with breathing exercises since the examples he just described, or were those the pinnacles? [25:10] - Sam discusses the physical symptoms of his injury, which were always consistent. His healing took place on an energetic level instead. He then explores how he returned to feeling himself as whole after his paralysis. [27:57] - Stephan shares a profound breath-related experience of his own, which took place on a trip to India. [30:43] - It’s possible to experience the fact that you are more than your consciousness, but the point gets lost in the explanation, Sam explains. He and Stephan then talk about how disconcerting (and liberating) the process of changing your perspective in that way can be. [34:29] - You are far more than your thoughts, feelings, and body; you are consciousness itself. Sam digs further into this concept, explaining the sensation of coming to this realization. [36:32] - What would be an example of a shift that one of Sam’s clients made in which they realized that they are the space (or nothingness) in which things occur? [39:09] - Sam’s physical paralysis has been the catalyst he needed to be able to help other people overcome their various non-physical kinds of paralysis, he reiterates. [41:54] - Stephan asks whether one can have the sorts of epiphanies that Sam has been talking about in ways other than breath, then shares an intense and deeply personal experience he had in a float tank. [45:46] - Sam responds to Stephan’s experience and his question. He then talks about the challenge of integrating a catalyst experience into the rest of your life. [48:39] - Stephan has never used drugs himself, but had an experience in India that felt like it could have been a psychedelic experience. [50:49] - The greatest obstacle or impediment to people practicing meditation or breathwork is that we tend to be so results-oriented, Sam explains. [51:37] - How can people contact Sam if they want to work with him or learn more? Links and Resources: Sam Morris on LinkedInSam Morris on Facebook@zwtraining on Twitter@zenwarriortraining on Facebook@zenwarriortraining on InstagramZen Warrior TrainingJonathan Fields on the Optimized GeekBreath trainingHypnosisContinuum MovementFloat tank (isolation tank)

Today’s guest, Tom Patterson and I talk about the dangers of the modern online world. A world in which just about everything about you is tracked by various machines and companies and is then sold -- after you willingly give away your rights to this information. A world in which there’s a second version of the internet, full of people selling nefarious services. A world including innumerable people ready to steal your entire online identity and then ransom it back to you. Luckily, he’s here to teach you some tips and tricks to help you stay safe in an increasingly risky world. Find Out More About Tom Here: Tom Patterson on LinkedInTom TalksTom Patterson of Unisys In This Episode: [02:24] - Tom discusses what he believes we regular people need to do to protect ourselves from a privacy and security standpoint. In his answer, he points out that the world is changing around us, so we need to change with it. [04:17] - Security is more and more a part of the public psyche, Tom explains. He then talks about ransomware, which generally happens to people through phishing. [08:46] - Stephan recaps what Tom has been saying to make it clear for listeners. Tom then expands on what Stephan has said. [10:01] - Is there insurance to cover losses through phishing and similar scams? [10:35] - Stephan gives an example of a very clever phishing technique that may have caught people off-guard. Tom then gives another example. [12:51] - Stephan’s aunt was scammed not too long ago, he reveals. [14:20] - We hear about another example that Stephan has seen in a Black Mirror episode, which Tom reveals is taken from real life. Stephan and Tom then talk about putting bandaids or tape over computer cameras. [16:35] - Tom shares some ways you can better protect yourself. The first of these is to stop giving things away and make conscious trades about privacy invasion, which he discusses in great detail. [19:42] - You can sometimes change permissions, Stephan explains. Tom then points out how hard these settings often are to find. [22:46] - Another step in protecting yourself is by making it harder for the bad guys. People are generally using better, more complex passwords now -- but the problem is that they are now using that one complex password everywhere. [26:06] - Tom advises lying in one particular instance: the security questions for forgotten passwords. [27:22] - There is one foolproof way not to click on dangerous links in phishing emails, Tom explains: don’t click on any links. If you get an email from your bank, for example, close that email, open a new web browser session, and go to your bank’s website directly. [29:00] - What does Tom think about password managers to keep track of your various complex passwords or passphrases? [30:36] - Tom offers another piece of advice, which is to turn off your computer and leave your phone outside the room if you’re going to have a sensitive business conversation. Computers can easily be turned into bugging devices. [32:13] - How does this work in terms of devices such as, for example, Amazon Echo? Should listeners get rid of these devices? [34:20] - Tom shares another easy, free step to be more secure: turn off automatic images in your email. [35:27] - Tom differentiates between malware and adware. Stephan then talks about an example of nasty adware. [37:25] - Does Tom have tips or tools for how to remove adware or malware? [39:24] - We learn more about two-factor authentication and biometrics. What’s coming into play in the future, though, is behavioral biometrics, which Tom explains in some depth. [43:01] - Stephan points out why two-factor authentication is particularly important for Google and Facebook. [44:33] - What is the Dark Web, and why should we care about it? [46:59] - There are a dozen or so anonymous currencies used on the dark web, of which Bitcoin is the most popular. [48:00] - Tom talks more about Bitcoin [49:43] - We learn more about finding things on the dark web, which often requires you to build up a dark web reputation first. [51:08] - What tips would Tom like to recommend in terms of protecting yourself from identity theft? [53:40] - Tom talks about his high-level security clearance, touching on how people can get cleared and what the downside is. He also shares the advice that he gives to teenagers. Links and Resources: Tom Patterson on LinkedInTom TalksTom Patterson of UnisysUnisys Cal PolyWharton SchoolRansomwarePhishingSpearphishingCyber insuranceBlack MirrorCyber extortionVizioVizio privacy scandalSHA-1Dark WebBehavioral biometricsAmazon EchoMalwareAdwareAdawareTwo-factor authenticationBiometrics Tor BitcoinBlockchainInternet of ThingsLifelockGDPR (General Data Protection Regulation)

Today our conversation is with Jack Andraka about his love of science, how persistence paid off for him, and about the future of medicine. Prepare to be charmed by the 20-year-old wunderkind, who was only 15 years old when he invented groundbreaking cancer-detecting technology. Jack is also the author of the book Breakthrough, on the faculty at Silicon Valley’s Singularity University, a TED speaker, and a National Geographic Emerging Explorer. Listen in to this thought provoking episode. Find Out More About Jack Here: jackandraka.com@jackandraka on TwitterJack Andraka on InstagramJack Andraka on Facebook In This Episode: [01:35] - What spurred Jack’s discovery, and how was he able to pull it off as a teenager? [02:21] - Jack explains his invention in more detail. [03:17] - Because it takes a while to get medical technology on the market, Jack’s invention isn’t yet fully in use. [03:53] - There are several other tests currently under development, but Jack hasn’t heard of any that can detect cancer as early and accurately as his. [04:41] - Jack talks more about the process of developing his invention and finding a lab and mentor. He then describes going through the interview process at the lab, as well as how the funding worked. [07:51] - Jack discusses the Intel ISEF, in terms of what it is as well as his own experience there. [09:37] - We hear about Jack’s experience speaking at TED. [10:33] - Jack talks about Singularity University, which he describes as “probably one of the coolest places in all of Silicon Valley.” [12:56] - Jack shares some stories about his at-home experiences with science and the experiments he’s done with his brother -- including the time he accidentally gave his family food poisoning, and the fact that he and his brother got his mom onto the FBI watch list. [17:30] - Stephan shares a quote by George Bernard Shaw: “The reasonable man adapts himself to the world: the unreasonable one persists in trying to adapt the world to himself. Therefore all progress depends on the unreasonable man.” [18:37] - We learn more about nanorobots, what they are, and what they can do. [21:47] - What is CRISPR, and how is it being used? In his answer, Jack explores just how incredibly powerful this tool is. [25:15] - Stephan brings up the functions of genes, which Jack then explains in his own words, clarifying how DNA works. [28:16] - Jack touches on the ethical debate over whether we should have “designer babies” by modifying an embryo’s DNA. [30:13] - Are we able to connect these nanorobots to the internet, in the sense of the Internet of Things? [31:36] - We return to biosensors, with Jack talking about the project he’s working on right now that can test for biocontamination. [34:01] - Jack talks about how his technology can be expanded to various diseases. [34:37] - Why did Jack choose Tanzania as the place to launch his test? [35:57] - Jack explores how his technology dovetails with water filtration systems and helps people lift themselves out of poverty. [36:59] - Jack describes a big current trend in disease diagnostics for moving from symptom-based diagnostics toward molecular-based diagnostics. [39:53] - Stephan and Jack talk about what the term “proteomic” means. [40:28] - Why does Jack’s biosensor work with pancreatic, lung, and ovarian cancer, but not with breast cancer, for example? [42:35] - Jack gives a loose timeline for when he hopes his biomarker panels will be generally available. [43:34] - Is the test available outside the USA, where the FDA regulations don’t apply? [44:36] - Jack discusses the other research he’s working on, then explains how he got the idea for the topic. [48:14] - Beyond what has already been discussed, where does Jack see the future of medicine heading? [49:32] - Jack discusses whether surgical skills will still be relevant in ten years, or whether it will become the realm of robots by then. [50:55] - Where can people find out more about Jack? He suggests his website or his Twitter. Links and Resources: jackandraka.com@jackandraka on TwitterJack Andraka on InstagramJack Andraka on FacebookIntel ISEFBreakthrough Singularity UniversityNational Geographic Emerging ExploreCarbon nanotubesDr. Anirban MaitraClinton Global InitiativeTEDE.coliCholeraGeorge Bernard ShawNanorobots CRISPRHuntington’s RNADNACystic fibrosisBRCA mutationInternet of ThingsBiosensorsBiocontamination GenomicsProteonicsBiomarker MucinsMesothelinEconometrics Freakonomics Ebola

Elissa Epel, today’s guest, is an expert in the field of telomeres. She co-wrote the The Telomere Effect with Dr. Elizabeth Blackburn, who won a Nobel Prize for discovering telomerase. Elissa, an associate professor at UCSF, explains in this conversation how certain behaviors and experiences can impact telomere length. She talks about stress, for example, which affects telomeres differently depending on the kind of stress. She also offers insight into how to protect yourself from premature cellular aging through mindset and lifestyle choices. Find Out More About Elissa Here: Elissa Epel at UCSF@Dr_Epel on TwitterElissa.Epel@ucsf.eduwww.telomereeffect.com In This Episode: [01:51] - Elissa speaks about why we should care about telomeres, and what we need to know about them. She reveals that much of our aging is about our lifestyle. [03:35] - Stephan recaps what telomeres are. Elissa then expands on what he has been saying and offers some insight into how short, worn-out telomeres lead to aging issues. Short telomeres can actually impact young people as well, she reveals. [05;40] - There’s a commercially available test you can take to find out the length of your telomeres (if that’s something you want to know). Elissa explains that in certain cases, people are unhappy to discover their results. [08:42] - How can we get tested? Elissa lists some testing companies (including Life Length, Telomere Diagnostics, and Repeat Diagnostics). She then offers advice on how often to test your telomere length. [10:15] - Elissa clarifies what she meant by a “residential retreat” a moment ago. She then discusses how valuable these can be. [14:29] - We hear about the effects of these residential retreats on telomere length and telomerase. [16:13] - In response to Stephan’s request for things for people who aren’t really into meditating can do instead, Elissa talks about tai chi and qigong. She also talks about the importance of being able to change your perspective and the way you’re thinking when facing stress. [19:52] - Stephan mentions Elissa’s book as it relates to stress. Elissa talks about different types of stress and their different impacts on telomere length. She then emphasizes the possibility of maintaining telomere length even if they’re currently shorter than you might like. [23:17] - Stephan and Elissa talk about positive addictions. Stephan recommends Way of Life, an iPhone app. [25:17] - Elissa talks more about forming habits and what she calls the “golden rules of behavior change.” She recommends asking yourself how confident you are that you’ll maintain your behavior, as the answer reveals a great deal about the likelihood that you’ll follow through. [28:01] - We learn that habits have three components: the cue, the habit itself, and the reward. To break a bad habit, you can change the cue. [29:52] - Where does sleep fit into the equation for Elissa? She reveals that shorter telomeres are associated with various sleep issues. [32:41] - Elissa discusses the weak relationship between BMI and shorter telomeres. [34:52] - Stephan and Elissa discuss abdominal fat. [35:52] - We learn that Elissa’s co-author, Dr. Elizabeth Blackburn, discovered telomerase with her student Carol Greider. Elissa then talks about the slow growth of science, specifically in its response to this discovery. [40:16] - We shift to the topic of nutrition and dieting. Elissa talks in particular about a study by Janet Tomiyama regarding caloric restriction, and reveals that nutrition is more important for telomere length. [44:12] - What would Elissa recommend for supplements when it comes to telomeres? [45:25] - Elissa talks about what a pregnant woman can do to give her baby the best shot at having long telomeres. [47:19] - Stephan brings up the topic of banking stem cells. Elissa explains that stem cells are the cells with the highest levels of telomerase. [49:08] - How can people find Elissa’s book? And does she have any other resources to recommend to listeners? [50:43] - Is there a strong correlation between your sense of purpose in life and the length of your telomeres? Elissa speaks to the perhaps surprisingly deep importance of feeling a sense of purpose. Links and Resources: Elissa Epel at UCSF@Dr_Epel on TwitterElissa.Epel@ucsf.eduwww.telomereeffect.comThe Telomere EffectDr. Elizabeth BlackburnTelomeraseUCSFTelomeresRhinovirusPeter DruckerLife LengthTelomere DiagnosticsRepeat DiagnosticsDeepak ChopraTai chiQigongMind & Body Tips (on The Telomere Effect)Way of LifeJerry SeinfeldGlucoseDr. Michael Breus on the Optimized GeekThe Power of When by Dr. Michael BreusSleep apnea Blue lightMelatonin Growth hormoneBMI AdiposeInsulin Intra-abdominal (or visceral) fatCytokinesEukaryotic organismsTetrahymenaAnemia FolateCaloric restrictionIntermittent fastingCarol GreiderJanet TomiyamaFree radicalsOxidative stressAntioxidants Insulin resistanceWorld Health OrganizationOmega-3 Fatty AcidsStem cellsBanking stem cellsDr. Harry Adelson on the Optimized Geek