The Primal Shift

Travel enthusiast Michael Kummer shares his 16 essential travel items, from air purification gadgets to safety tools, to simplify trips and enhance the overall travel experience. Practical tips and product recommendations for staying healthy and prepared on the road, whether traveling for business or pleasure.

In this episode, we're exploring the intricate world of stress management with Dr. Dave Rabin, a neuroscientist, inventor, entrepreneur and co-founder of Apollo Neuroscience, which makes wearable devices that use low-frequency (inaudible) sound waves to help reduce stress levels and blood pressure, speed up recovery, and positively influence your autonomic nervous system by changing your heart rate variability (HRV). Dr. Rabin shares his expert insights on the dual nature of stress (eustress vs. distress), and introduces us to innovative ways to harness this powerful force for good. We also talk about the Apollo wearable, including how it works and how I’ve used it to help increase my own HRV. This conversation is a must-listen if you want to enhance your ability to manage stress and turn everyday tension into a source of strength. In this episode: 0:00 - Introduction 1:40 - Understanding Stress  5:00 - The Role of Inflammation in Cell Communication   7:00 - Benefits of Eustress 9:20 - How Cold Exposure Stress Can Positive or Negative   14:03 - Apollo Technology Explained 27:30 - Closing Thoughts and Episode Wrap-up Don't forget to subscribe for more insightful conversations with experts in health, fitness, and beyond.  #PrimalShiftPodcast #DaveRabin #Stress #Apollo  Learn more: Read about my top gadgets for stress relief. Read my detailed Apollo Neuro review for a deep dive into how I used the device as part of my wellness regimen. Watch this YouTube video to learn about the science behind Apollo Neuro. Want to know if Apollo really works? Here’s what the research says about the device. Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, OneSkin!  OneSkin’s lineup of topical skin health products leverage the power of the company’s proprietary OS-01 peptide to remove dead skin cells, improve collagen production, increase skin hydration and more. Check out my before and after photos in my OneSkin review and visit OneSkin here. Plus, get 15% off your first order with promo code PRIMALSHIFT. About Dr. Dave Rabin: Dr. Dave Rabin, M.D., Ph.D, is a neuroscientist and psychiatrist who has conducted more than 15 years of research into chronic stress. He co-founded Apollo Neuroscience, where he serves as Chief Medical Officer and helps develop wearable technology that enhances sleep and relaxation. Dr. Rabin is also the Executive Director of The Board of Medicine, as well as Medical Director at the Apollo Clinic. Website: https://www.drdave.io/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drdavidrabin/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/drdavidrabin More From Michael Kummer: Website: https://michaelkummer.com YouTube: https://youtube.com/@MichaelKummer Instagram: https://instagram.com/mkummer82  

In this episode, we explore the critical aspects of blood sugar management and the innovative use of continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) to maintain optimal health, even on a low-carb diet. We'll unravel some common misconceptions about diabetes, including the idea that diet is the only risk factor for developing type-2 diabetes. I’ll also share personal insights from my own experiences with CGMs. Learn how dietary choices, stress, and other lifestyle factors can profoundly affect your blood sugar levels and overall health. This discussion is essential for anyone looking to enhance their understanding of metabolic health and prevent chronic illnesses through practical, data-driven insights.  In this episode: 00:00 - Intro   01:49 - My Discoveries Using CGMs   03:24 - What Happens When Your Blood Sugar Levels Rise?   04:22 - The Concept of Type 3 Diabetes and Mental Health   06:04 - Dietary Impacts on Blood Sugar Levels  07:37 - Stress Impacts on Blood Sugar Levels   08:26 - Exercise and Its Immediate Effects on Blood Sugar   09:09 - The Role of Chronic Stress and Poor Sleep   11:57 - How to Use and Choose the Right CGM 16:10 - CGMs That I Use 16:42 - The Importance of Using a CGM 21:06 - Closing Thoughts: Why Monitor Your Blood Sugar? Remember to like, subscribe, and share this episode with anyone who could benefit from it. And as always, thank you for tuning in to the Primal Shift Podcast! Links: For a limited time, join Levels and receive an additional two free months on your annual membership.  Try the Nutrisense CGM here. Read my comparison of Levels Health and Nutrisense on the blog. Check out my conversation with Laura and Erin from Mark Sisson’s Primal Health Coach Institute and learn how to boost your health by shifting gears. Learn more on how exercise influences your blood glucose response (I drank a can of Coke as an experiment). Learn how continuous glucose monitoring can improve your health and fitness. Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, MK Supplements!  Use code “primalshift” to save 15% on your MK Supplements order at https://shop.michaelkummer.com More From Michael Kummer: Website: https://michaelkummer.com YouTube: https://youtube.com/@MichaelKummer Instagram: https://instagram.com/mkummer82 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realmichaelkummer   

In this episode we're joined by former US Navy SEAL and sleep expert Dr. Kirk Parsley. Dr. Parsley shares his profound insights on the critical importance of sleep and its often underestimated impact on overall health. He also tells us about the unique perspective he gained from his experience with the extreme sleep deprivation endured during both SEAL training and medical residency.  Learn the surprising truths about shift work, the pitfalls of modern medical training on sleep education, and actionable strategies to improve your sleep hygiene for optimal health. This conversation is for anyone looking to seriously upgrade their health through the power of sleep. Dr. Parsley dismantles common misconceptions about sleep and provides practical advice that stems from his background as a Navy SEAL and medical doctor.  In this episode: 00:00 - Intro   01:40 - Meet Dr. Kirk Parsley: Navy SEAL Turned Sleep Doctor   02:56 - The Shocking Reality of Sleep Deprivation in Medicine and Military   06:20 - The Misconceptions of Western Medicine and Disease Care  10:31 - How Light Affects Sleep and Circadian Rhythms    14:57 - Exploring the Deadly Impact of Shift Work on Lifespan   16:00 - The Role of Napping: When and Why It's Essential   35:08 - Sleep Myths and Misunderstandings Debunked   42:47 - Supplements for Sleep: What Works According to Science   53:37 - The Future of Sleep Science and Personal Health Adjustments   58:00 - Closing Thoughts and Episode Wrap-up Don't forget to subscribe for more insightful conversations with experts in health, fitness, and beyond. #PrimalShiftPodcast #KirkParsley #SleepScience  Learn more: Experience the all natural, life changing benefits of deep, regenerative sleep with Sleep Remedy by Dr Kirk Parsley. Learn why you might have trouble falling asleep. Learn how to sleep better and fall asleep quicker. Primal Shift Podcast #14: Do THIS for Better Sleep Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, OneSkin!  OneSkin’s lineup of topical skin health products leverage the power of the company’s proprietary OS-01 peptide to remove dead skin cells, improve collagen production, increase skin hydration and more. Check out my before and after photos in my OneSkin review and visit OneSkin here. Plus, get 15% off your first order with promo code PRIMALSHIFT. About Dr. Kirk Parsley: Dr. Kirk Parsley is a retired Navy SEAL and medical doctor who specializes in sleep medicine. He is widely recognized for his expertise in sleep optimization, particularly addressing the detrimental effects of sleep deprivation experienced in high-stress environments like the military and medical fields. Dr. Parsley is a leading speaker and consultant, promoting the importance of sleep for overall health and peak performance. Website: https://docparsley.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sleepremedy/  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIyEpdW88wakXSh0JYYHxGA More From Michael Kummer: Website: https://michaelkummer.com YouTube: https://youtube.com/@MichaelKummer Instagram: https://instagram.com/mkummer82  

Let’s get back to the basics of what it truly means to eat naturally. In this episode, I’ll take you through a practical challenge: what if your diet depended entirely on what's available locally and seasonally in your area?  This episode is for anyone looking to understand the real impact of food locality and seasonality on their health. I’ll break down the myths and truths about sustainable diets, and explain how you can improve your health dramatically by aligning more closely with nature's rhythms.  Join me as we explore how simple changes can lead to significant health benefits. In this episode: 00:00 - Intro   01:55 - The Concept of Hyperlocal and Hyperseasonal Eating   02:19 - Dietary Scenarios in Georgia Across Seasons   03:14 - Ignoring Modern Constraints: Hunting and Agriculture Insights   03:58 - What Would You Eat? Exploring Native Species   06:15 - Challenges of a Strict Plant-Based Diet Locally   08:16 - Comparing Native Plants to Common Cultivated Varieties   09:17 - The Health Implications of Seasonal Eating   12:51 - Practical Tips for Implementing a Local Diet   18:03 - The Role of Genetics 18:50 - Environment Role 21:00 - Closing Thoughts Remember to like, subscribe, and share this episode with anyone who could benefit from it. And as always, thank you for tuning in to the Primal Shift Podcast! Links: Check out my in-depth guides on nutrition and dietary lifestyles that have been proven by evolution and science to be effective for improving your health. Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, MK Supplements!  Use code “primalshift” to save 15% on your MK Supplements order at https://shop.michaelkummer.com More From Michael Kummer: Website: https://michaelkummer.com YouTube: https://youtube.com/@MichaelKummer Instagram: https://instagram.com/mkummer82  

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Jack Wolfson, a renowned cardiologist with a unique perspective on heart health that challenges conventional wisdom. Dr. Wolfson shares his insights on the true causes of cardiovascular disease, the overlooked importance of lifestyle factors, and why organ meats might be the missing piece in your diet for heart health. We also discuss the critical role of environmental factors, including mold exposure, and how they impact your cardiovascular system. Dr. Wolfson's approach offers practical, actionable advice grounded in nature, helping you make informed choices about your health and well-being.  In this episode: 00:00 - Introduction 03:02 - The Critical Role of Lifestyle in Heart Health   04:44 - Top 3 Cardiovascular Risk Factors  05:18 - Nutrition and Diet: What Really Matters   08:01 - Advanced Markers for Assessing Heart Disease Risk   18:36 - Personal Blood Work Discussion and Insights   29:16 - The Importance of Organs in Your Diet   36:40 - Final Thoughts and Episode Wrap-Up   Don't forget to subscribe for more insightful conversations with experts in health, fitness, and beyond. #PrimalShiftPodcast #JackWolfson #CardiovascularHealth  Learn more: Shop my 100% grass-fed freeze-dried beef organ supplements. Learn the top health benefits of consuming organ meat (blog post). Make sure you tell your doctor to include these key metabolic health markers on your blood panel (YouTube video). Chronic inflammation (and thus, chronic disease) is largely driven by lifestyle factors, such as diet, environmental toxins, exercise and sleep. Check out my guide to living a healthy lifestyle for actionable tips you can implement today. Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, OneSkin!  OneSkin’s lineup of topical skin health products leverage the power of the company’s proprietary OS-01 peptide to remove dead skin cells, improve collagen production, increase skin hydration and more. Check out my before and after photos in my OneSkin review and visit OneSkin here. Plus, get 15% off your first OneSkin order with promo code PRIMALSHIFT. About Dr Jack Wolfson:Dr. Jack Wolfson is a board-certified cardiologist, a best-selling author, husband and father, as well as one of the nation’s top natural heart doctors. Over the past two decades, more than 1 million people have enjoyed the warmth, compassion and transformational power of his natural heart health courses and events. Website: https://drjackwolfson.com  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/natural_heart_doctor/?hl=es  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@NaturalHeartDoctor More From Michael Kummer: Website: https://michaelkummer.com YouTube: https://youtube.com/@MichaelKummer Instagram: https://instagram.com/mkummer82  

In this episode, I delve deep into skin health and the hidden connections between your gut and your skin's condition. I’ll talk about the truth behind chronic skin issues like acne, eczema and psoriasis, including why they're more than just surface-level problems. Join me as I uncover the root causes of these conditions, exploring the pivotal role of diet, stress and environmental factors in skin health. I'll share practical insights, backed by science, and offer actionable tips to help you reclaim control over your skin and enhance your overall well-being. In this episode: 00:00 - Introduction 02:38 - Root Causes of Chronic Skin Conditions  04:56 - Inflammation and Immune Response 06:00 - The Role of Gut Health 09:29 - Impact of Diet and Nutrient Absorption on Skin Health 11:27 - Stress and Emotional Health 12:39 - Detoxification Pathways 13:39 - Lifestyle Changes and Tips for Healthy Skin 19:14 - Final Thoughts Remember to like, subscribe, and share this episode with anyone who could benefit from it. And as always, thank you for tuning in to the Primal Shift Podcast! Links: Get a quick reference guide on what to eat for optimal health in my downloadable animal based food and beverage list. Diet is the main driver of skin health, but a daily skincare regimen can also help. I use OneSkin to help keep my skin looking and feeling great.  If your skin issues are related to problems in your digestive tract, supplements like Intelligence of Nature (ION+), bovine colostrum and freeze-dried beef organs can help repair the delicate lining inside your gut and ensure you’re absorbing all the essential micronutrients your skin needs to heal. To lean more about how environmental toxins can negatively impact your skin health, check out How Xenoestrogens Make Us Sick, Fat and Infertile (with Dr. Anthony Jay) and the Top Non-Toxic Household and Personal Care Products (We Use at Home) Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, MK Supplements!  Use code “primalshift” to save 15% on your MK Supplements order at https://shop.michaelkummer.com More From Michael Kummer: Website: https://michaelkummer.com YouTube: https://youtube.com/@MichaelKummer Instagram: https://instagram.com/mkummer82

In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Shawn Baker, a world-renowned advocate for the carnivore diet and an athlete who has shattered world records by fueling his body without carbohydrates.  We dive deep into the mechanics of the carnivore diet, discussing its impact on athletic performance, recovery and overall health. We also explore the nuances of transitioning to a carnivore diet for athletes, the effects on inflammation and joint pain, and the significance of protein and fat in enhancing performance and recovery.  Whether you're an athlete looking to elevate your performance or someone curious about the health benefits of the carnivore diet, this episode offers valuable insights into making the shift and thriving on a diet that goes against the conventional dietary grain. In this episode: 00:00 - Introduction of the Podcast 01:35 - Dr. Baker's World Records and Diet 07:27 - Impact of Diet on Inflammation and Joint Pain 13:46 - Vivid Dreams and Sleep Quality on Carnivore Diet 15:24 - Protein's Role in Diet and Performance 19:17 - Role of Calcium 22:04 - Salt Consumption 29:15 - Calories on a Carnivore Diet 33:24 - Female Athletes and the Carnivore Diet 35:57 - The Concept of Dietary Stressors 39:07 - Final Thoughts and Information Sources Don't forget to subscribe for more insightful conversations with experts in health, fitness, and beyond. #PrimalShiftPodcast #ShawnBaker #CarnivoreDiet  Learn more: Contrary to conventional wisdom, you don’t need to worry about fiber on a carnivore diet. Learn why we follow an animal-based dietary framework rather than a strict carnivore diet. Check out my comparison of the health benefits of paleo, keto and carnivore for a deep dive into their relative pros and cons.  Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, MK Supplements!  Use code “primalshift” to save 15% on your MK Supplements order at https://shop.michaelkummer.com About Dr Shawn Baker: Co-Founder of Revero Dr. Shawn Baker M.D. is an orthopedic surgeon, a world-leading authority on treating disease with medical nutritional therapy, an Amazon best-selling author, a world champion athlete, an international speaker, a podcast host, and a consultant. Website: https://carnivore.diet/dr-shawn-baker-md/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shawnbaker1967/?hl=es Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ShawnBakerMD More From Michael Kummer: Website: https://michaelkummer.com YouTube: https://youtube.com/@MichaelKummer Instagram: https://instagram.com/mkummer82  

In this episode, I dive deep into the world of exogenous ketones, discussing what they are, how they work in the body, and the pros and cons of supplementing with them.  Join me as I share my insights, experiences, and practical tips for incorporating exogenous ketones into your lifestyle and improving your overall well-being.  In this episode: 00:00 - Introduction to Exogenous Ketones   02:06 - Understanding Ketosis and Ketone Production   06:00 - Therapeutic Benefits of Ketones   07:59 - Personal Experience with Cognitive Enhancement   09:14 - Appetite Suppression and Weight Management   10:23 - Improving Athletic Performance and Recovery   11:30 - Who Should Consider Supplementing with Exogenous Ketones   17:25 - Different Types of Ketone Supplements   18:37 - Practical Tips for Using Exogenous Ketones   20:35 - Final Thoughts   Remember to like, subscribe, and share this episode with anyone who could benefit from it. And as always, thank you for tuning in to the Primal Shift Podcast! Links: Best Exogenous Ketone Supplements (Based on Science) Blog Post  Why Hard Ketones is the Best Alcohol Alternative Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, OneSkin!  OneSkin’s lineup of topical skin health products leverage the power of the company’s proprietary OS-01 peptide to remove dead skin cells, improve collagen production, increase skin hydration and more. Check out my before and after photos in my OneSkin review, or visit OneSkin here. Plus, get 15% off with promo code PRIMALSHIFT! More From Michael Kummer: Use code “primalshift” to save 15% on your MK Supplements order at https://shop.michaelkummer.com Website: https://michaelkummer.com YouTube: https://youtube.com/@MichaelKummer Instagram: https://instagram.com/mkummer82  

Today's episode is one you don’t want to miss. I’m joined by Travis Mayer, an 8x CrossFit Games athlete and a true testament to the dedication, resilience, and pursuit of excellence in athletic performance. In our conversation, Travis gives us a rare glimpse into his journey, sharing the strategies that have allowed him to compete at an elite level for nearly 13 years. We'll explore his approach to training, recovery, nutrition, and balancing a demanding athletic career with raising a family.  Whether you're a competitive athlete yourself or someone looking to elevate your fitness, Travis's experiences and insights offer valuable lessons on pushing through boundaries, the significance of mental resilience, and much more.  In this episode: 00:00 - Introduction of the Podcast 02:03 - This is Travis Mayer 03:58 - The Journey to Elite CrossFit Competitor 06:50 - The Role of Recovery in Athletic Performance 14:04 - Mental Resilience and Overcoming Challenges 21:42 - Travis's Approach to Training and Nutrition 28:55 - Travis’s Sleep Routine 33:27 - Travis’s Sauna Sessions 35:16 - Travis's Recommendations for Athletes and Fitness Enthusiasts 42:50 - The Importance of Mobility and Warm-Up Routines 52:37 - Closing Thoughts Don't forget to subscribe for more insightful conversations with experts in health, fitness, and beyond. #PrimalShiftPodcast #TravisMayer #CrossFit Links: Steam vs. Infrared Sauna: What’s Better for Your Health? How to SURVIVE Your First Ice Bath or Cold Plunge How Combining Ice Baths and Sauna Bathing Can Transform Your Health! TRAVIS MAYER does functional fitness workout FOR TIME! INSANE LADDER LIFT into CrossFit's "THE STANDARD" w/ Travis Mayer  Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, MK Supplements!  Use code “primalshift” to save 15% on your MK Supplements order at https://shop.michaelkummer.com About Travis Mayer: Travis Mayer is an 8x CrossFit Games athlete and owner of United Performance for 10 years! Website: https://www.unitedperformanceftc.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetravismayer/ More From Michael Kummer: Website: https://michaelkummer.com YouTube: https://youtube.com/@MichaelKummer Instagram: https://instagram.com/mkummer82