

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

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.

35 snips
Apr 23, 2025 • 1h 11min
How to Break Free from Suffering with Peter Crone | The HigherUp Podcast Ep. 46
In this engaging discussion, Peter Crone, known as The Mind Architect, helps people unlock their potential and achieve mental freedom. He dives into how our perceptions shape reality and the mental barriers that limit us. Peter shares insights on embracing life’s challenges for growth, transforming grief into gratitude, and the ego’s impact on happiness. He also emphasizes redefining self-narratives to overcome rejection and the role of suffering in fostering self-awareness. Peter’s wisdom offers a refreshing path to living authentically.

4 snips
Apr 17, 2025 • 45min
Reverse Dieting, Balancing Running and Lifting & More: Follower Q&A | The HigherUp Podcast Ep. 45
Discover effective reverse dieting strategies to boost your metabolism after weight loss. Learn how to balance running and lifting for optimal performance without sacrificing strength. Explore the importance of REM sleep for recovery and cognitive function. Delve into the emotional side of sales by connecting with clients' motivations. Understand the line between healthy eating and disordered habits while embracing personal achievements for growth. Finally, tackle self-doubt and the feeling of stagnation on the journey to wellness.

Mar 29, 2025 • 1h 9min
How to Use a Nutrient Dense Diet to Tap into Your Full Potential | The HigherUp Podcast Ep. 44
Dive into the world of micronutrients and their transformative effects on health and performance. Discover the benefits of a nutrient-dense diet, tackling misconceptions about bland eating. Explore essential supplements like vitamin D and the surprising superfood status of kiwis. The discussion also challenges the carnivore diet, advocating for balanced nutrition. Personal anecdotes bring the topic to life, making the journey towards optimal health both insightful and enjoyable.

22 snips
Mar 21, 2025 • 1h 18min
How to Build Self Confidence Through an Evidence Based Life W/ Cru Mahoney | The HigherUp Podcast Ep. 43
In this engaging discussion, Cru Mahoney, a content creator and coach famous for his daily mile running streak, shares insights on building self-belief. He reflects on the resilience required to maintain his running discipline despite challenges. The duo explores the balance between discomfort and personal growth, emphasizing the need for self-awareness and aligning daily actions with long-term goals. They delve into the power of mindfulness, the importance of honest conversations, and the value of navigating life's choices with intention.

Mar 12, 2025 • 50min
Follower Q&A: Debunking The Biggest Myths in Fitness | The HigherUp Podcast Ep. 42
The host dives into the world of fitness myths, addressing popular misconceptions like the inefficacy of spot-reducing fat and the truth about muscle toning. Energy balance, progressive overload, and training intensity are emphasized as keys to success. The discussion moves on to nutrition, debunking the importance of meal timing and clarifying myths about red meat and weight gain. Listeners learn about metabolic adaptation, calorie misreporting, and the real factors that influence metabolism, all while being encouraged to adopt a balanced, evidence-based approach to fitness.

Feb 25, 2025 • 1h 24min
Discussing Entrepreneurship, Grief, Faith, and More | The HigherUp Podcast Ep. 41
Drop your #StepCheck in the comments!This episode was unplanned between myself, Gabriel Pinto, and Marten Jenkins. We discuss our businesses, personal lives, how to cope with death, and finding god amongst it all. Marten Jenkins is an Atlanta based entrepreneur with a background in Division 1 College sports as well as the creation of NIL in College Football.Gabriel Pinto is an Atlanta based Men's purpose coach, helping guys find their faith and clarity on their purpose in life.

6 snips
Feb 10, 2025 • 27min
How to Grow Organically on Social Media | The HigherUp Podcast Ep. 40
Discover the secrets of growing your social media presence organically! The speaker shares insights from their journey of gaining over a million followers in just 18 months. Authenticity is the key to success in today's digital landscape. Plus, they dive into the complex interplay between gratitude and emotional challenges, showcasing how self-reflection can enhance personal growth. Tune in for practical tips and inspiring stories!

Jan 28, 2025 • 20min
Keep Showing Up | The HigherUp Podcast Ep. 39
The host opens up about personal struggles and the importance of staying connected with listeners. A heartfelt recounting of navigating grief highlights the crucial role of family support and communication during tough times. Strategies for transforming grief into purpose and resilience are shared, emphasizing health and gratitude. The conversation shifts to the power of choice and personal accountability, inspiring listeners to persevere and embrace their own journeys with commitment and strength.