

The HigherUp Podcast
Michael Smoak
The HigherUp Podcast has one mission - to share easily implementable ways to improve your life. The host of this podcast is Michael Smoak, or HigherUpWellness on social media. I will be breaking down concepts and principles in the health and wellness space that are often complex and convoluted into easily digestible, actionable steps that you can do for low or no cost.
This podcast will be a combination of solo episodes and interview episodes of guests who embody the HigherUp lifestyle.
This podcast will be a combination of solo episodes and interview episodes of guests who embody the HigherUp lifestyle.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 4, 2025 • 33min
How Physical Health Will Drive Your Success | The HigherUp Podcast Ep. 56
Drop your #stepcheck in the comments! This is a speaking event I had the opporunity to take on last month. If you would like to book me for your business to come speak, email mgmt@higherupwellness.com

39 snips
Jul 25, 2025 • 1h 12min
How to "Do the Work" to Become Who You Want To Be W/ Quinlan Walther | The HigherUp Podcast Ep. 55
In this engaging discussion, Quinlan Walther, a self-development titan with nearly 2 million followers, dives deep into personal growth. She emphasizes the need for emotional autonomy and confronting deep-seated feelings for transformative healing. Quinlan explores how childhood experiences shape our relationships and stresses the importance of self-acceptance alongside playful self-expression. Nutrition's role in mental wellness and tangible steps to visualize your ideal self are also key topics, making for a well-rounded conversation on empowerment.

Jul 17, 2025 • 1h 10min
Optimizing Muscle Growth, Fat Loss, Follower Q&A W/ OB Health Fit | The HigherUp Podcast Ep. 54
Join an insightful discussion about optimizing muscle growth and effective fat loss strategies. Discover the importance of starting your day with positivity and how it shapes productive habits. Uncover the myths surrounding dieting and the truth about supplements versus whole foods. Learn how content creation in the fitness world requires resilience and authenticity. The hosts also dive into the complexities of metabolic adaptation and the crucial role of fiber and healthy fats in your diet. It's a treasure trove of fitness wisdom and practical advice!

Jun 26, 2025 • 22min
Prolonged Fasting: How I Do it and Why | The HigherUp Podcast Ep. 53
Drop your #stepcheck in the comments! Join my coaching | higherupwellness.com

Jun 23, 2025 • 1h 3min
How to Take The Power Back in Your Life With Haley Cordova | The HigherUp Podcast Ep. 52
Drop Your #StepCheck in the comments! Today I had the chance to sit down with Haley Cordova. She is known on Socials as @fueledbyfitness, and has powerful, profound perspectives on how to overcome anxiety, mental health struggles, and build a life that your proud of. Let me know what you thought of the episode and be sure to like, rate, follow, and subscribe so we can get the message to more people.

17 snips
Jun 16, 2025 • 1h 11min
Greg O'Gallagher : Kinobody, 3 Lifts Per Week & How to Get Lean Easily | The HigherUp Podcast Ep. 51
In this engaging chat with Greg O'Gallagher, founder of Kinobody and a fitness expert with over 15 years of experience, listeners dive into a minimalist approach to exercise and nutrition. Greg shares his insights on key strength lifts that enhance attractiveness like the incline bench press and weighted chin-ups. He discusses sustainable intermittent fasting strategies and the importance of balancing fitness with a healthy relationship with food. Personal anecdotes about family shape their perspectives on hard work and motivation in fitness.

Jun 6, 2025 • 1h 8min
How to Optimize Your Life Through Supplementation W/ Justin Kelly | The HigherUp Podcast Ep. 50
Happy 50 episodes! Thank you all so much for being here. Drop your #Stepcheck in the comments!Justin Kelly is a prominent health and wellness influencer and the founder of PRSPR Wellness, a platform dedicated to holistic nutrition and functional medicine. With a Master's degree from USC and clinical ICU training, Justin specializes in personalized nutrition strategies aimed at healing the gut, balancing hormones, and achieving sustainable weight loss. His approach combines evidence-based science with practical lifestyle changes, empowering individuals to reclaim their health without restrictive diets or quick fixes. Through PRSPR Wellness, Justin offers top of the line supplements to empower clients to get the most out of their health. Justins socials | @jkelly6_ on IG @trainwithjk on TikTok

5 snips
May 28, 2025 • 21min
Disspelling Myths of the Modern Fitness Industry w/ Travis Chappell | The HigherUp Podcast Ep. 49
In this discussion, Travis Chappell, host of the podcast 'Travis Makes Friends,' brings his genuine curiosity to debunk myths in the fitness industry. He dives into the misconceptions surrounding calories, highlighting their vital role in weight management. The conversation challenges the notion that protein can’t be stored as fat and discusses the complexity of nutritional science. Chappell also emphasizes the importance of critical thinking in navigating dietary advice, advocating for an individualized approach to health and fitness.

6 snips
May 19, 2025 • 39min
Follower Q&A: Answering Your Biggest Questions | The HigherUp Podcast Ep. 48
This episode dives into fascinating follower questions, starting with tips for better communication and public speaking. Social media growth strategies are shared, alongside insights on overcoming the fear of posting. The discussion also includes hydration for athletes, the impact of ultra running on testosterone, and hydration solutions like coconut water versus electrolyte powders. Listeners learn how to maintain weight after cutting, the importance of sleep in weight loss, and practical fitness routines for core training.

7 snips
May 6, 2025 • 25min
HYROX Atlanta Recap, Keeping the Promises you Make to Yourself | The HigherUp Podcast Ep. 47
Listeners are taken on a journey through the highs and lows of an intense fitness race in Atlanta. The host shares personal insights on training, nutrition, and achieving a personal best despite setbacks. The importance of resilience is highlighted, especially in overcoming adversity shaped by personal tragedy. Emotional themes of commitment shine through, particularly amidst family illness. Ultimately, the discussion inspires with a focus on the power of perseverance and the significance of showing up for oneself.