

The Peter Attia Drive
Peter Attia, MD
Expert insight on health, performance, longevity, critical thinking, and pursuing excellence. Dr. Peter Attia (Stanford/Hopkins/NIH-trained MD) talks with leaders in their fields.
Episodes
Mentioned books

11 snips
May 27, 2019 • 2h 39min
#55 - Jocko Willink, retired Navy SEAL, Part I of II: objective, strategy & tactics, leadership, protocols, dealing with death, and applying the many lessons learned from war
In this captivating discussion, Jocko Willink, a retired Navy SEAL and bestselling author, shares invaluable lessons from his military career. He delves into the critical differences between objectives, strategy, and tactics, emphasizing the power of humility in leadership. Jocko highlights the need for effective protocols in dealing with life’s hardships, including loss and relationship challenges. He reflects on how military training shapes decision-making and the importance of distinguishing what truly matters in life.

28 snips
May 20, 2019 • 1h 45min
#54 – Kevin Sayer, CEO of Dexcom: Continuous glucose monitors – impact of food, sleep, and stress on glucose, the unmatched power of CGM to drive behavioral change, and the exciting future of CGM
Kevin Sayer, CEO of Dexcom, shares his journey in medical devices and insights into continuous glucose monitors (CGMs). He highlights the profound impact of sleep and stress on glucose levels and how CGMs empower users to drive behavioral change. Sayer discusses exciting advancements, including the G6 model and partnerships aimed at improving accessibility. The conversation also delves into the complexities of diabetes management and the potential for CGMs to benefit not only diabetics but anyone looking to optimize health.

May 13, 2019 • 12min
#53 - AMA #6: Fasting framework, vitamin supplementation, antioxidants, time management, problem-solving, and more
In this AMA session, a range of fascinating topics comes to light. They delve into whether vitamin supplementation is necessary for a balanced diet and the current science around antioxidants. Listeners learn the best practices for breaking long fasts and the effects of black coffee on fasting. The discussion even touches on strategic timing for fasting around food binges. Additionally, insights into effective time management and problem-solving strategies round out a valuable exploration of health and nutrition.

May 6, 2019 • 2h 54min
#52 - Ethan Weiss, M.D.: A masterclass in cardiovascular disease and growth hormone - two topics that are surprising interrelated
Ethan Weiss, a Hopkins-trained preventative cardiologist at UCSF, dives deep into the fascinating intersection of cardiovascular disease and growth hormone. He unpacks the complexities of heart attacks, the role of stents, and shares groundbreaking insights on the impact of growth hormone on longevity and health. The discussion highlights gender differences in cardiovascular conditions and the nuances of personalized treatment approaches. With anecdotes from his medical journey and a love for hockey, Ethan's expertise and passion light up the conversation.

May 1, 2019 • 1h 3min
The Ayrton Senna Episode (re-release): Celebrating the greatest driver in Formula 1 history and the cautionary tales of driven individuals
In this nostalgic reflection on Ayrton Senna, psychiatrist Paul Conti, a medical school colleague of Peter Attia, reveals the psychological depth behind the iconic F1 driver's prowess. They discuss Senna's legacy, including how his tragic death transformed safety in the sport and the lessons from high-achieving individuals. The duo also shares thrilling tales from the 80s and 90s, highlights memorable rivalries, and dives into the impact of documentaries like 'Senna,' celebrating the blend of talent and ambition that defined an era in motorsport.

10 snips
Apr 29, 2019 • 2h 19min
#51 - Robert Sapolsky, Ph.D.: The pervasive effect of stress - is it killing you?
In a gripping discussion, Robert Sapolsky, a renowned Stanford professor and author, dives into the complex world of stress and its pervasive effects on health and behavior. He shares insights from his studies on baboons, shedding light on how social hierarchy and personality influence stress responses. Sapolsky explains the physiological mechanisms at play, including the role of cortisol, and reveals how maternal stress can imprint on future generations. He offers practical tips for managing stress in our fast-paced modern world, illuminating how we can improve our well-being.

Apr 22, 2019 • 12min
#50 - AMA #5: calcium scores, centenarian olympics, exercise, muscle glycogen, keto, and more
Dive into a lively discussion about coronary calcium scores and their significance for heart health. Discover tips on preparing for the unique 'centenarian olympics,' designed to keep you youthful and active. Learn how different exercises affect blood glucose levels and hear about the high-intensity Tabata protocol. Explore the effects of a ketogenic diet on athletic performance and muscle adaptation. Plus, uncover personal insights from Dr. Gabor Maté's work and some quirky trivia like 'pattycakes' and the latest in egg boxing!

23 snips
Apr 15, 2019 • 2h 1min
#49 – Matthew Walker, Ph.D., on sleep – Part III of III: The penetrating effects of poor sleep from metabolism to performance to genetics, and the impact of caffeine, alcohol, THC, and CBD on sleep
Matthew Walker, a neuroscience and psychology professor at UC Berkeley and director of the Center for Human Sleep Science, dives deep into the critical implications of sleep on health and performance. He explores how poor sleep affects metabolism, decision-making, and productivity. The conversation also examines the negative impacts of caffeine and alcohol on sleep quality, alongside the potential benefits of THC and CBD. Walker highlights the intricate link between sleep and mental health, emphasizing its importance for overall well-being.

32 snips
Apr 8, 2019 • 2h 5min
#48 – Matthew Walker, Ph.D., on sleep – Part II of III: Heart disease, cancer, sexual function, and the causes of sleep disruption (and tips to correct it)
Matthew Walker, a Professor of Neuroscience at UC Berkeley and sleep expert, dives deep into the crucial role of sleep in our lives. He highlights the alarming links between poor sleep and diseases like cancer and heart disease. Walker discusses how cortisol affects our nervous systems, leading to sleep disruptions, and questions the standard use of sleeping pills. He emphasizes the unique sleep needs of teenagers and advocates for later school start times, while also addressing the detrimental effect of electronics on sleep quality and the benefits of napping.

38 snips
Apr 1, 2019 • 1h 43min
#47 – Matthew Walker, Ph.D., on sleep – Part I of III: Dangers of poor sleep, Alzheimer's risk, mental health, memory consolidation, and more.
Matthew Walker, a Professor of Neuroscience and Psychology at UC Berkeley, shares his expertise on the crucial role of sleep. He explains the four pillars of sleep and their impact on memory consolidation and mental health. Chronic sleep deprivation significantly increases dementia risk, while drowsy driving poses acute dangers. Walker discusses the unique functions of REM and non-REM sleep, touches on evolutionary aspects, and offers insights on overcoming jet lag. He highlights the growing recognition of sleep's importance in overall health and well-being.