The Dr. Gabrielle Lyon Show

In this episode, I’m joined by journalist and author Michael Gross, whose book, Stronger: The Untold Story of Muscle in Our Lives, reveals the powerful and often overlooked role of muscle in human health and society—tracing its importance from ancient civilizations to modern science. We explore how our understanding of muscle has evolved through history, from symbols of strength and vitality in antiquity to current misconceptions in modern society. Michael shares insights from his extensive research, highlighting the incredible resilience of muscle tissue, debunking common myths about strength and aging, and providing compelling evidence for why everyone—no mat...

In this episode, Dr. Alexis Wood, a leading researcher at Baylor College of Medicine, joins me to unpack insights into childhood nutrition, genetics, and cognitive health. Dr. Wood's work bridges genetics, dietary practices, and brain development, highlighting how early-life nutrition can shape lifelong outcomes. We explore cutting-edge research, practical strategies for parents, and the surprising factors influencing children's cognitive and metabolic health.

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In this episode, I sit down with Dr. David Klurfeld—longtime USDA scientist and one of the few insiders to publicly challenge the WHO's classification of red meat as a carcinogen. We go deep into the flawed evidence behind the infamous 2015 IARC report, why nutritional epidemiology often fails to prove causality, and how a small group of researchers helped shape global policy with low-quality science. If you've ever felt confused about meat, saturated fat, or dietary guidelines, this conversation will help you think critically about what “counts” as evidence—and who gets to decide.

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Dr. Larry Lipshultz. is one of the world's leading experts in men's reproductive health. In this week's episode, we discuss testosterone therapy, male fertility, and the hidden environmental factors threatening men’s health. Dr. Lipshultz shares groundbreaking insights into why male fertility is declining, common myths surrounding testosterone and prostate cancer, and innovative strategies to safely enhance men's reproductive and overall health.

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What if your biggest challenge isn’t motivation but missing structure? In this episode, I sit down with Brian Johnson to unpack the science and philosophy of lasting behavior change. We explore the power of ancient wisdom, stoicism, and the neuroscience of excellence, and why most wellness apps fail to deliver real transformation.

Brian shares his personal journey from startup success to creating a global movement around character, discipline, and identity-based habits. We talk about the science of anti-fragility, how muscle mirrors virtue, and why the gap between who you are and who you could be is th...

When it comes to performance, more isn’t always better. In this episode, I sit down with conditioning expert Joel Jamieson to explore the science of recovery, aerobic fitness, and how to use heart rate variability (HRV) to train smarter. They dive into why elite athletes recover so quickly, the long-term value of zone 2 training, and how HRV reflects your resilience—not just your readiness. Joel shares lessons from two decades of working with fighters, Olympians, and NFL players, along with powerful insights from his own cardiovascular health journey. Whether you’re a high performer or simply want to live l...

In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Ty Beal—global nutrition researcher and Senior Technical Specialist at the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN)—to uncover the hidden epidemic of micronutrient deficiencies worldwide. From food access and affordability to ultra-processed diets and nutrient bioavailability, we explore how modern food systems are failing billions and what needs to change to truly make the world healthier.

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In today's episode, I had the chance to speak to muscle physiology researcher and science communicator Dr. Lauren Colenso-Semple. Together, we unpack the common claims around hormones and training—from whether you should change your workouts based on your cycle, to the real effects of fasted cardio and birth control on performance and muscle growth. We also explore how menopause affects body composition, what the science actually supports when it comes to training differences between men and women, and why some of the most persistent myths about women’s physiology are based more on assumption than evidence.

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In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Abbie Smith-Ryan—one of the leading researchers in exercise physiology and women’s metabolism—to unpack the science of how women should be training through perimenopause, postmenopause, and beyond. We dive into the physiological changes that impact body composition, performance, and recovery—and how to adjust training and nutrition to match.

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This week in the studio, I'm joined by Dr. Nick Barringer—Army Ranger, performance nutrition expert, and one of the sharpest minds in military and metabolic health. Together, we cut through the noise around today's most controversial nutrition topics. If you’ve ever felt whiplash trying to make sense of conflicting headlines, this episode is your science-based compass.

What’s really going on with artificial sweeteners like sucralose and aspartame? Are seed oils toxic—or just misunderstood? And what’s the actual science behind popular supplements like creatine, testosterone boosters and fat burners?

Dr. Barringer brings two...

In this episode, I’m joined by Shaun Noorian—engineer, entrepreneur, and CEO of Empower Pharmacy, the largest compounding pharmacy in the world. With compounded GLP-1s making headlines and lawsuits from Big Pharma intensifying, Shaun joins me to pull back the curtain on the regulatory, financial, and ethical storm brewing behind the scenes.

Are compounded GLP-1s legal? Safe? Who controls drug pricing in the U.S., and why are Americans paying 10x more than Europeans for the same medication? And most importantly—what does all this mean for access, affordability, and patient care?

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In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Melanie Cree—physician-scientist, pediatric endocrinologist, and one of the leading researchers redefining how we understand and treat Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). PCOS affects millions of women, yet it's still underdiagnosed, misunderstood, and often mistreated. Dr. Cree cuts through the confusion, offering a deeply scientific yet compassionate look at what’s really driving this complex condition—from insulin resistance and mitochondrial dysfunction to skeletal muscle quality and fertility trajectories across a woman’s lifespan.

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In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Jocelyn Wittstein—orthopedic surgeon, sports medicine expert, and Associate Professor at Duke University—for a powerful and practical conversation about  bone and joint health across the lifespan. From the challenges of frozen shoulder and arthritis to the truth about running and menopause hormone therapy, this episode is your definitive guide to staying strong, mobile, and pain-free well into your 40s, 50s, and beyond.

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In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Shane Kronstedt—former Navy SEAL, physician, surgical resident, and most importantly, my husband—for a powerful conversation about discipline, resilience, and the real-life moments that define us. From his early years of martial arts and mixed martial arts to surviving Hell Week and life-or-death missions in Afghanistan and Uganda, Shane shares how pressure creates clarity, why mindset matters most, and what it truly means to lead by example. This deeply personal episode gives you a rare glimpse into the man behind the mission.

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Jeff Krasno’s personal health transformation—reversing diabetes, shedding 60 pounds, and reclaiming his health at age 50—is a masterclass in what he calls “good stress.” In this episode, we dive into the simple but powerful idea that discomfort might just be the medicine we all need. Jeff, the founder of Commune and host of the Commune podcast, shares how fasting, cold exposure, resistance training, and attention to modern habits helped him regain his energy, build muscle, and thrive.

Together, we discuss how metabolic dysfunction has become the norm, how adaptive stress responses can be harnessed to reverse chronic il...

Nelson Vergel’s story is one of resilience, perseverance, and an unrelenting drive to defy the odds. In the mid-1980s, he was handed what many would have considered a death sentence—an HIV diagnosis at a time when there were no effective treatments, no clear answers, and little hope. Today, he is a beacon of knowledge and empowerment for those seeking to take control of their health, whether they are dealing with wasting conditions, hormone deficiencies, or simply aiming for peak performance. Nelson has spent decades researching and advocating for hormone health, muscle preservation, and medical autonomy, particularly for...

Dr. James Hill—a expert on obesity, metabolism, and long-term weight management—joins me this week to unpack the biggest challenges in sustainable fat loss. Dr. Hill has spent decades researching weight control and the factors that determine whether people can keep weight off long-term. We discuss the science behind energy balance, metabolic flexibility, and why long-term weight loss is about more than just diet and exercise. He shares insights from his groundbreaking work with the National Weight Control Registry, the role of GLP-1 medications, and why physical activity is the key to preventing weight regain.

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In this episode, Dr. Abraham Morgentaler—an expert in urology and hormone health—helps unpack the biggest myths and misconceptions surrounding testosterone therapy for both men and women. He shares his pioneering research on testosterone replacement therapy, challenging outdated fears about its link to prostate cancer and highlighting the latest findings on how hormone therapy can impact overall health, libido, and longevity. The conversation explores the controversial history of testosterone in medicine, the common mismanagement of hormone deficiencies, and why free testosterone may be one of the most important markers for health.

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Misinformation in nutrition is rampant. From demonizing red meat to hyping plant-based diets, conflicting advice has left many people confused about what’s truly evidence-based. In this episode, I am joined by Dr. Bradley Johnston, an expert in evidence-based nutrition and public health policies, to separate fact from fiction. With nearly 200 peer-reviewed publications, Dr. Johnston has challenged conventional wisdom—including recommendations from major organizations like the World Health Organization. He shares how evidence-based practices should guide our dietary choices, the importance of systematic reviews and meta-analyses, and how cognitive biases influence the research we trust.

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In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Kristy Hamilton, a board-certified plastic surgeon, to explore the latest advancements in aesthetic medicine, the impact of social media on beauty standards, and the reality of breast implant illness. Dr. Hamilton shares her expert insights on facial rejuvenation, fat transfer, the safety of fillers, and new biostimulators while debunking common myths around plastic surgery. We also dive deep into the controversial rise of explant surgeries, the latest data on BII, and how surgical and non-surgical options can help individuals feel more confident in their skin. From the influence of celebrity procedures...

Today, I welcome Dr. Donald Layman back to The Dr. Gabrielle Lyon Show for a deep dive into his decades of protein research, the flaws in dietary guidelines, and the evolving landscape of nutrition. Together, we explore the real reasons behind the obesity epidemic, why decades of dietary advice have led us astray, and how we can reclaim metabolic health through high-quality protein intake. Dr. Layman shares compelling research on protein requirements, nutrient density, and how misleading narratives around fat and cholesterol have shaped our food choices. This conversation will challenge what you think you know about nutrition and...

Today, I welcome ultra-endurance athlete and world record holder Zach Bitter to The Dr. Gabrielle Lyon Show for an insightful conversation on the extreme physical and mental demands of ultra-marathons. Zach shares his mindset strategies for overcoming the inevitable dark moments in long-distance races, including visualization techniques and the importance of mental resilience in performance.

We also dive into personalized nutrition and training adaptations, as Zach details his transition from a high-carb to a low-carb diet and how it has influenced his endurance, recovery, and overall performance. Our discussion highlights the importance of metabolic flexibility, optimizing fuel...

Today, I welcome Dr. Heather Leidy to The Dr. Gabrielle Lyon Show for an in-depth conversation about the evolving landscape of nutrition science. Together, they tackle pressing topics like the future of the U.S. Dietary Guidelines, the impact of protein timing, and the importance of protein quality in supporting health and mitigating frailty. Dr. Leidy highlights recent research that explores behavioral strategies for sustainable weight management, the role of animal-sourced foods in nutrient adequacy, and the effects of GLP-1 medications on diet and health outcomes.

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Dr. Stephan Van Vliet joins us for an enlightening exploration of nutrition, agriculture, and human health. Our discussion navigates the often-overlooked complexities of food production, examining the nutritional differences between pasture-finished and grain-finished beef. We also uncover how maternal nutrition might set the stage for children's future dietary preferences. Dr. Van Vliet introduces the intriguing concept of the food matrix, emphasizing the profound impact of bioactive compounds in whole foods that go far beyond mere macronutrient content.

As we venture into the emerging field of food metabolomics, Dr. Van Vliet reveals how metabolites in plants and animals...

In this episode of The Dr. Gabrielle Lyon Show, I sit down with my friend, Dr. Allison Brager, a neurobiologist, researcher, and active-duty U.S. Army neuroscientist whose work redefines what we know about sleep and human performance. Allison’s expertise goes beyond the usual advice about getting eight hours of sleep. Instead, we explore how to optimize performance and resilience when life doesn’t allow for a perfect sleep routine—something we can all relate to.

Allison shares fascinating insights from her work with military special operations, studying how sleep deprivation impacts cognitive and physical performance in hig...

In this episode of The Dr. Gabrielle Lyon Show, Dr. Gabrielle Lyon sits down with Dr. Susanna Søberg, a leading expert in cold exposure and metabolism. They dive deep into the science behind cold plunging, the benefits of brown adipose tissue (BAT), and how minimal doses of cold can dramatically improve metabolic health, mental resilience, and overall well-being.

Dr. Søberg shares her personal journey from working as a nurse to becoming a PhD researcher in metabolism, uncovering the surprising role that brown fat plays in regulating blood sugar, burning fat, and improving cardiovascular health. The co...

In this episode of The Dr. Gabrielle Lyon Show, I sit down with Dr. Faidon Magkos, a leading expert in obesity and metabolism at the University of Copenhagen, to tackle one of the most debated topics in nutrition science – the root causes of obesity. We dive into the contrasting theories of energy balance and the carbohydrate-insulin model, shedding light on what the latest research reveals – and what remains unknown. Dr. Magkos also discusses how environmental factors, genetics, and muscle health shape metabolic outcomes.

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Dr. Kevin Maki, renowned scientist and co-founder of multiple biomedical research centers, joins us to demystify the world of nutrition science. With a career spanning decades in epidemiology and clinical trials, Dr. Maki dives into the evidence behind red meat, cholesterol, saturated fats, and the impact of dietary habits on heart health. Discover the truth behind common misconceptions and gain clarity on making informed dietary choices.

In This Episode:

• What does the science really say about red meat and cholesterol?

• Understanding the role of saturated fats in heart health

• How observational studie...

In this episode of The Dr. Gabrielle Lyon Show, I sit down with Dr. Mike Israetel, an exercise physiologist and co-founder of Renaissance Periodization, to break down the science of sustainable fat loss and muscle gain. We explore the essential strategies for transforming your physique without falling for quick fixes or fad diets. From macronutrient distribution to the critical role of resistance training, Dr. Israetel offers practical, science-backed guidance for anyone looking to optimize their health and fitness. From macronutrients to supplements, we cover it all! 

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In this episode of The Dr. Gabrielle Lyon Show, Dr. Lyon is joined by Dr. Russell Surasky, a board-certified neurologist and addiction specialist, to discuss one of the most pressing issues of our time: addiction. With a deeply personal connection to the topic, Dr. Surasky sheds light on the reality of addiction as a chronic brain disease and dispels the myths that have fueled stigma for decades.

Dr. Surasky explains how addiction fundamentally alters brain function, the role of genetic susceptibility, and why opioids—particularly fentanyl—pose an unprecedented threat. He shares actionable insights into treatment options, inclu...

Join Dr. Gabrielle Lyon and Dr Christie Ballantyne, one of the world’s leading cardiologists, for an insightful conversation on the science behind cardiovascular health, metabolic wellness, and disease prevention. In this episode, Dr. Ballantyne shares groundbreaking research, the role of genetics, and practical steps you can take to optimize heart health. Whether it’s through diet, exercise, or understanding your unique health profile, this discussion is packed with actionable strategies to help you live a longer, healthier life.

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Dive into an extraordinary conversation with Dr. Gabrielle Lyon and Dr. Jamie Baum, Associate Professor and Director of the Center for Human Nutrition at the University of Arkansas. In this episode, we explore revolutionary topics:

The role of skeletal muscle in appetite regulation.

Cutting-edge research on perimenopause and postmenopause nutrition.

How dietary protein impacts health and weight management.

Surprising findings on protein supplementation and sleep quality.

The science behind muscle-brain crosstalk and its effects on aging.

Dr. Baum shares her journey into research focused on women's health...

The Dietary Guidelines Are Failing Us

In this episode of The Dr. Gabrielle Lyon Show, Dr. Lyon is joined by Dr. Donald Layman, a world-renowned expert in protein metabolism and a pioneer in the field of nutritional science. With over 20 years of mentorship between them, Dr. Layman and Dr. Lyon dive deep into the flaws, myths, and future of U.S. Dietary Guidelines, offering a clear path to better health through smarter dietary decisions.

Dr. Layman shares his revolutionary perspective on why protein intake should focus on essential amino acids, how carbohydrates—not fats—are driv...

Testosterone Matters for Everyone

In this episode of The Dr. Gabrielle Lyon Show, Dr. Lyon sits down with Shalin Shah, CEO of Marius Pharmaceuticals, to explore the science, benefits, and future of testosterone therapy. Shalin has been a driving force behind bringing Kyzatrex, an FDA-approved oral testosterone, to market—making testosterone therapy more accessible and effective for both men and women. From breaking down misconceptions to advocating for better access to hormone therapy, this conversation sheds light on how testosterone plays a crucial role in overall health and wellness.

Shalin shares his journey, discussing how hi...

Designing Confidence

In this episode of The Dr. Gabrielle Lyon Show, Dr. Lyon sits down with Heidi Somers, the founder of Buffbunny Collection, a dynamic and empowering fitness and lifestyle brand that has taken the industry by storm. From growing up in a small town in Alaska to becoming a successful entrepreneur, Heidi’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, self-belief, and authenticity.

Heidi opens up about her humble beginnings, including her early struggles with weight and body image, and shares how these experiences fueled her passion to help other women feel st...

Raising Healthy Athletes

In this enlightening episode of the Dr. Gabrielle Lyon Show, we dive deep into the world of youth training and the crucial role it plays in long-term health and athletic development. Joined by Judd Leinhard, former Army Ranger, collegiate lineman, and expert in speed training, we explore how training children differs from adults, debunk common myths, and reveal the surprising truth about building strength and resilience in kids.

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In this episode of The Dr. Gabrielle Lyon Show, I sit down with Dr. Layne Norton, a scientist and nutrition expert, to unpack the complex truths behind obesity, weight management, and diet myths. Together, we discuss what truly drives weight gain beyond the “calories in vs. calories out” model, exploring the impacts of hormones, metabolic rates, and lifestyle choices.

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- How the body processes carbs, fats, and proteins

- Challenging the carb-insulin model of obesity

- Practical tips on meal structuring and muscle maintenance

- The sign...

Defying Aging

In this episode of the Dr. Gabrielle Lyon Show, I sit down with Dr. Vonda Wright, a pioneering orthopedic surgeon and women’s health advocate, to explore the powerful intersection of mobility, aging, and resilience. Dr. Wright shares her inspiring journey from growing up on a Kansas farm to becoming a leader in orthopedics, and how her non-traditional path shaped her approach to health and wellness.

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Whether you're curious about aging well, staying strong, or redefining your heal...

Resetting the Nervous System

In this episode of the Dr. Gabrielle Lyon Show, we dive deep into groundbreaking approaches for treating PTSD, anxiety, and depression with Dr. John How, an emergency physician turned mental health advocate. Dr. How introduces us to the Stellate Ganglion Block, a powerful and non-invasive procedure that's transforming how we manage trauma and mental health without relying solely on medications.

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Breaking the Cycle

In this episode of the Dr. Gabrielle Lyon Show, I sit down with the incredible Thais Gibson, an expert in attachment theory and personal development. Together, we dive deep into the fascinating world of attachment styles and explore how early childhood experiences shape our emotional patterns, relationships, and even our overall health.

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