BIOptimizers - Awesome Health Podcast
Wade T. Lightheart, a host of the Awesome Health Podcast, is a 3-time All Natural National Bodybuilding Champion, advisor to the American Anti-Cancer Institute and Director of Education at BiOptimizers, one of the world’s most innovative nutritional supplement companies. Wade has been involved professionally in the nutritional supplement industry for over 15 years. After his digestion totally broke down and he gained 42 pounds following a bodybuilding competition, he began to search for answers. Through a revolutionary doctor, he discovered the power of specific enzyme and probiotic strains for healing digestion and turned his health and life around. The Awesome Health Po...
288: Heal Fascia, Recharge Your Energy - with Cathy Goldstein

In the wellness world, many chase surface-level fixes, like creams, cleanses, and crash diets, while ignoring the internal systems that actually drive energy, detoxification, and glow. Cathy Goldstein, a holistic practitioner with over 40 years of experience, sees the body differently. She believes the real fix lies in supporting two overlooked systems: fascia and lymph.
Cathy describes most people as walking around with a “traffic jam of toxins.” This buildup in the fascia and lymphatic system can lead to puffiness, swelling, fatigue, dull skin, and even emotional heaviness. Fascia is more than connective tissue—it’s a collagen-producing communic...
287: Thyroid & Liver: Key to Health - with Sara Banta

In today’s world, many people struggle with weight gain, a slow metabolism, brain fog, and difficulty building muscle, despite healthy diets and exercise. Health expert Sarah Banta says the cause is often in thyroid and liver health. Her insights, shared on a podcast with Wade Lightheart, highlight how these organs regulate metabolism, fat burning, and muscle building. When these organs are not working well due to toxins, stress, or poor nutrition, the body may have trouble losing fat and gaining muscle.
Thyroid: Metabolic Master Switch
The thyroid controls how the body makes energy. It af...
286: Mindset: Key to Longevity? - with Tony Wrighton

The high-tech world of biohacking often focuses on physical factors for longevity, like supplements and cold plunges. However, author and biohacker Tony Wrighton suggests that mindset plays a more significant role. Drawing from his experience in behavior change and neuro-linguistic programming (NLP), Tony reveals that our beliefs about aging may impact lifespan more than diet or exercise.
A Yale University study supports this idea, showing that individuals with a negative mindset towards aging live 7.5 years shorter than those with a positive outlook. This effect is more detrimental than smoking, obesity, or high cholesterol.Â
Many in t...
285: Hair Restoration: Myths and Advances - with Dr. Alan J. Bauman

Hair plays a crucial role in our identity, often symbolizing youth and confidence. Dr. Alan Bauman, with nearly 30 years in hair restoration, has seen the profound impact of hair loss and emphasizes dispelling misconceptions.
Many hesitate to seek help, thinking their hair loss isn't severe or treatments are ineffective. However, early intervention is vital. Addressing hair loss early can prevent further thinning and even reverse it. Dr. Bauman stresses this proactive approach.
A common myth is that hair restoration is only for complete baldness. In reality, early action yields better outcomes. Men noticing a receding...
284: Healing Addiction Now - with Jason Giles

Dr. Jason Giles, a board-certified addiction medicine expert, former anesthesiologist, and a person who has personally battled and overcome substance addiction, recently appeared on the *Awesome Health Podcast* by BiOptimizers. With over 27 years of medical experience and leadership in managing 40 addiction treatment centers, Dr. Giles offers an honest and compassionate view into addiction and recovery.Â
Addiction isn't just a medical condition, but a human challenge impacting all facets of life, from drugs and alcohol to screen time and food. These behaviors often serve as emotional coping mechanisms, hijacking the brain’s reward system and substituting pleasure for wel...
283: Slowing Aging, Mastering Health - with Chris Mirabile

Chris Mirabile's journey to achieving a biological age 13.6 years younger than his chronological age is not a tale of luck but of deliberate action and deep scientific understanding. His transformation extends beyond mere youthful appearance. He’s aging 31% slower than average.Â
This remarkable feat is rooted in intense self-education and a disciplined lifestyle geared towards optimizing health at a molecular level. His story began at 16, when a severe seizure led to the discovery and surgical removal of a brain tumor. This life-altering event shifted his focus from basic fitness to a profound understanding of human biology and agi...
281: Health Revolution - with Joe Cohen

Joe Cohen's journey to optimal health is a story of self-discovery and a drive to find answers beyond conventional medicine. Struggling with chronic health issues like fatigue, inflammation, and brain fog, Joe took charge of his health by diving into genetics, biomarkers, and biohacking.
A Start of Struggle: The Search for Answers
Joe's early attempts to seek help from mainstream doctors were unfruitful. Frustrated, he embarked on self-experimentation. He started with lifestyle changes like intermittent fasting and cold plunges, which offered some relief. However, it was when Joe incorporated supplements into his regimen that he...
280: Medical Errors: A Critical Issue - with Julie Siemers

Medical errors rank as the third leading cause of death in the United States, following heart disease and cancer. These preventable mistakes, including misdiagnoses, medication errors, and communication breakdowns, contribute to a significant number of fatalities annually. Understanding these risks and actively participating in one's healthcare is crucial and can be a matter of life and death.
The Reality of Medical Errors
Julie Siemers, a nurse with over forty years of healthcare experience, gained firsthand insight into medical errors when her parents were in an airplane accident and she had to advocate for their care...
279: The Power of Slowing Down - with Lee Holden
Lee Holden, a renowned Qigong master and author, shares insights about energy, healing, and the transformative power of slowing down in a fast-paced world.
Finding Qigong
Lee's journey with Qigong began after a soccer injury during his sophomore year in college. After conventional treatments failed, he sought help from a martial arts teacher who used Chi for healing. After a few Qigong treatments, Lee was ready to play soccer again. This recovery sparked his passion for Eastern healing practices.
Understanding Chi
At the core of Qigong is the concept of energy...
282: Ancient Herbs, Modern Strength - with Logan Christopher

In a world dominated by synthetic solutions, ancient herbalism offers a powerful alternative for health, performance, and longevity. Logan Christopher, strongman, herbalist, and educator, bridges traditional wisdom with modern goals. His journey highlights the relevance of nature-based healing.
Learning from Nature's Power
Ancient healers observed the natural world to uncover potent remedies. For example, noting the strength of ants, they used ant extract for vitality, which is still valued today for its effects on energy and endurance.
This method of learning from nature remains a cornerstone of effective herbalism. Herbs that provide noticeable...
278: Where Generosity Drives Success - with Nicole F. Roberts

Dr. Nicole F. Roberts is a catalyst for change with a deep understanding of human behavior and public health systems. Her work spans diverse cultures and sectors, focusing on how generosity, authenticity, and human connection can create a better world.
A Public Health Lens
Public health, according to Dr. Roberts, encompasses a broad range of factors, including diet, environment, sleep, and social interactions. She notes that human behaviors are consistent across cultures, emphasizing the need for culturally sensitive approaches to public health. Her work bridges the gap between high-level policy and community realities, ensuring that...
277: Where Ketamine Meets Executive Coaching - with Aneel Paulus

The convergence of ketamine therapy and executive coaching is an innovative approach to personal and professional growth, drawing from neuroscience, psychology, and leadership development.
Ketamine for Mental Flexibility and Adaptability
Ketamine, traditionally used as an anesthetic, has gained recognition for its potential to enhance mental flexibility. By fostering neuroplasticity—the brain's ability to reorganize and form new neural connections—ketamine facilitates adaptability and learning.Â
Dr. Paulus emphasizes that in the 21st century, the greatest skill lies in learning, unlearning, and relearning. This aligns with modern leadership needs for quick pivots and creative problem-solving.Â
276: Intimacy Wearables: Health and Wellness - with Elliot Justin

The Innovation Journey
Elliot Justin, an emergency physician, was inspired to explore sexual health and rehabilitation techniques following a horseback riding accident in 2015. He experimented with neuromodulation and other methods to address gaps in existing tools and treatments, which led to advancements in intimacy wearables.
The Link Between Sexual and Cardiovascular Health
Research indicates a strong connection between sexual and cardiovascular health: Men who experience fewer than one nocturnal erection per night have a 50% chance of having a heart attack within two years. Additionally, 88% of men who suffer strokes report experiencing erectile dysfunction...
275: From Corporate Stress to Holistic Healing - with Adam Parker

Adam Parker's story begins in the bustling corporate environment of London. The high-stress lifestyle took its toll, manifesting in poor digestion, anxiety, and low testosterone. Symptoms like hair loss and muscle loss not only affected his physical health but also his confidence and emotional well-being. Conventional medical treatments—ranging from steroid creams to antidepressants—offered temporary relief but failed to address the root cause.
The Shift to Holistic HealthDissatisfied with allopathic solutions, Adam explored functional and holistic approaches. He experimented with various supplements and biohacks but found limited improvement. The game-changer came unexpectedly: a liver cleanse that...
274: Natural Facelifts with Bio-Photon Energy - with Cathy Goldstein

Cathy Goldstein's Journey
After battling Crohn's disease and finding traditional medicine insufficient, Cathy Goldstein discovered the power of energy medicine through acupuncture. This experience led her to believe that hospitals, while crucial for acute care, often lack a holistic perspective. This realization inspired her to merge energy medicine with skincare.
The Science of Energy MedicineCathy's approach centers around three interconnected "nervous systems." These include:
The physical nervous system, responsible for transmitting sensory signals.
The liquid nervous system, encompassing hormones, neuropeptides, and biochemical responses.
The bio-photon highway, a complex...
273: Freedom From Fear - with Daniel Packard

Daniel Packard, a mechanical engineer, spent eight years researching and developing a system to help people overcome the "funky 5": anxiety, perfectionism, procrastination, people-pleasing, and self-doubt. His company, Full Liberation Technology, has helped thousands of people achieve lasting freedom from these challenges by addressing their root cause: fear.
Beyond Symptom Management
Packard criticizes the "improvement industrial complex," which he believes focuses too much on awareness and managing symptoms without addressing the underlying cause of mental health challenges. He argues that fear is the common root of the "funky 5," and traditional methods that address individual symptoms or...
272: Ditch the Diets, Build a Foundation - with Joe Hoye

Joe Hoye, a health coach and author of The Diet Detox, challenges the traditional dieting mindset and its negative impacts on the body. He offers an alternative approach that emphasizes sustainable wellness by focusing on building a strong foundation for long-term health.
The Damage of Diet Culture
Hoye's method stems from his experience working with clients, particularly women, who have endured repeated cycles of dieting. This pattern often leads to “metabolic nightmares”—a slowdown of metabolism caused by muscle loss and erratic eating habits.
 When the focus is solely on weight loss, muscle mass is...
271: DNA: Your Health Blueprint - with Elwin Robinson

Have you ever wondered why some people seem to effortlessly maintain a healthy weight while others struggle despite their best efforts? Or why do certain individuals experience anxiety and depression more intensely than others? The answer might lie within your DNA.
The Impact of Genetics on Your Health
Elwin Robinson's health journey is a testament to the powerful influence of genetics. While genetics can predispose us to specific health conditions, it doesn't mean we're destined to suffer. In his late twenties, Elwin experienced chronic fatigue, which he linked to both his genes and unhealthy lifestyle...
270: Glutathione: Enhance Health and Longevity - with Nayan Patel

Dr. Nayan Patel is a pharmacist and wellness expert who has worked with physicians to develop custom medications and personalized drug and nutrition plans for patients. He has been the pharmacist of choice for celebrities, CEOs, and even fellow physicians. Dr. Patel recently wrote a book about glutathione. After years of research on glutathione, Dr. Patel and his team developed a patented technology for topical glutathione delivery. This led to the creation of a skincare line designed for efficient and effective antioxidant delivery.
Glutathione Helps Detoxify the BodyGlutathione is a crucial molecule for human health. It...
269: Midlife Wellness: Hormones, Health, and Balance - with Keri Glassman

Keri Glassman, a nationally recognized Registered Dietitian, acclaimed author of four best-selling books, and media personality, has spent over two decades empowering individuals to lead healthier, happier lives.Â
As the founder of the award-winning lifestyle and media company, Nutritious Life, and the education platform Nutritious Life Studio, Keri has touched the lives of millions of women who transition through midlife, hormonal fluctuations often bring changes in weight, energy, and health.Â
According to Keri, understanding how hormones impact gut health, liver function, and metabolism helps women navigate this stage with confidence.Â
By focusing on gut...
268: Mastering Sustainable Health - with Jessie Hehmeyer

Jessie Hehmeyer’s journey into functional medicine began with her personal struggles with weight and digestion. Searching for solutions beyond conventional methods, she discovered the importance of mastering balance instead of relying on extreme behaviors or quick fixes.
Jessie emphasizes the importance of defining clear, personal health goals, such as more energy or improved digestion, rather than focusing on vague desires like weight loss. This clarity sets the foundation for lasting change.
The "All or Nothing" Trap
Jessie identifies a common obstacle: the "all or nothing" approach, where individuals oscillate between extreme diets an...
267: Essential Nutrients for Optimal Health - with Laura Capina

Dr. Laura Capina, a seasoned acupuncturist and health enthusiast, has eagerly anticipated the opportunity to share her insights on a podcast for three years. Growing up in Latvia, she was immersed in a culture that embraced natural remedies for healing.Â
This upbringing laid the foundation for her lifelong interest in health and wellness. Upon moving to the United States, she observed alarming rates of obesity and allergies, which further ignited her curiosity about the stark health differences between the two countries.
A transformative trip to India played a pivotal role in Dr. Capina's journey. During t...
266: Path to Pain-Free Yoga - with Yogi Aaron

Yogi Aaron's journey in the yoga world began in the mid-1990s, a time when the practice was gaining traction globally. Practicing alongside notable individuals like Wade Morrison and witnessing the rise of brands such as Lululemon, Yogi Aaron has seen the yoga community evolve over the years. He takes pride in Lululemon's international success, particularly given its Canadian roots.
Born into a "hippy dippy" family, Aaron's early years were steeped in alternative spiritual practices, including time spent at a spiritual healing center in Vancouver. This background clashed with his Christian evangelical upbringing, creating an internal conflict...
265: Championing Holistic Beauty - with Hannah Minardi

Hannah Minardi, a passionate advocate for health and wellness in skincare, offers profound insights into maintaining youthful beauty without compromising health. Recently, she emphasized the importance of holistic well-being in her discussions, highlighting shared values with her hosts.
Introducing Cosmeceuticals and Clean Ingredients
Minardi introduced "cosmeceuticals," high-quality cosmetics that blend pharmaceutical standards with wellness principles. These products not only enhance appearance but also promote overall health, steering clear of harsh chemicals that can harm the skin and disrupt hormones.
Unlike many skincare brands, Minardi strives to balance purity with effectiveness. Her approach focuses...
263: Unlocking Potential with Energetic Literacy - with Jessica Corbin

Jessica Corbin's journey into understanding and addressing burnout began with early creative expressions in her grandparents' backyard. As a child, she thrived in activities that allowed her to channel her energy creatively, such as building obstacle courses. This creativity extended into her athletic pursuits, where she found joy and expression through the power, strength, and agility of her body.
Her unexpected success in cross country during high school, where she joined Nina Lennon, led her to become an All-American athlete and later attend UCLA. This journey taught her the importance of aligning willpower with right action and...
264: Fitness Journey over 50 - with Mareya Ibrahim-Jones

As Mareya Ibrahim-Jones approaches her 55th year, she prepares for her second bikini competition, reflecting on her long commitment to fitness, health, and wellness.Â
Ibrahim's journey showcases the resilience and adaptability needed to thrive later in life, particularly for women. She offers valuable insights into physiological changes after 50, emphasizing the importance of nutrition for muscle growth, fat management, and metabolic enhancement through exercise.
Embracing Change and Overcoming Struggles
Mareya´s path to health has been challenging, starting with an eating disorder in her late teens and leading to various health issues over the ye...
262: Fascia: Unlocking Body's Healing Potential - with Julia Blackwell

Julia Blackwell, a fascia release expert, discusses the crucial role of fascia in the body and how fascia release can enhance mobility, alleviate pain, and even address emotional issues.
What is Fascia? Â
Fascia is a dense network of connective tissue that envelops everything in the body—from muscles and organs to bones and nerves. Blackwell describes fascia as a "three-dimensional plastic wrap suit" that holds everything in place. It also plays a vital role in proprioception, our body's awareness of its position in space.
When fascia becomes tight or restricted, it can...
261: Exploring Neurofeedback Potential - Andrew Hill

In the expansive realm of mental health and cognitive enhancement, neurofeedback emerges as a particularly promising approach to brain training. It offers exciting possibilities for optimizing brain function and mental well-being.Â
But what is neurofeedback, and how does it work? Join us on a journey through the brain's intricate pathways, guided by insights from Andrew Hill, a pioneer in the field.
Introduction to Neurofeedback
Neurofeedback's origins trace back to the early 20th century with the discovery of the EEG (Electroencephalogram), which laid the groundwork for understanding brain waves. By t...
260: The Power of Infrared Saunas - with Connie Zack

In our quest for health and vitality, we often seek solutions that align with our body's natural rhythms and capacities. For Connie Zack, the journey toward wellness began with a personal mission rooted in pain, passion, and the transformative potential of infrared technology.
The Origin Story of Sunlighten
Connie Zack's trajectory towards founding Sunlighten mirrors a profound personal journey. Witnessing her brother's battle with chronic illness, including chronic fatigue and vertigo, Connie delved into the realm of natural solutions. Her brother's recovery, catalyzed by the therapeutic embrace of an infrared sauna...
259: The Link: Health and Productivity - with Cory Holly

In a world rife with distractions, demands, and existential contemplations, Cory Holly emerges as a beacon of wisdom, merging health consciousness with a deep understanding of the human condition.Â
His journey, characterized by curiosity, skepticism, and steadfast commitment to wellness, provides invaluable insights into the complex relationship between health and productivity.
Curiosity and Existential Inquiry
At the heart of Cory Holly's philosophy is a profound curiosity about existence itself. He explores questions concerning reality, the essence of being, and the existence of a higher power. Through existential inquiry, he e...
258: Explore Spirit Gym - with Paul Chek

In the realm of holistic health and spiritual enlightenment, Paul Chek stands out as a seminal figure. His journey from a farm on Vancouver Island to becoming a renowned holistic health practitioner is both fascinating and inspiring.Â
With over 40 years of clinical experience and a wealth of knowledge from athletic pursuits, spiritual exploration, and deep introspection, Chek introduces the transformative Spirit Gym series — an odyssey into the realms of mind, body, and spirit.
Journey from Farm to Fitness
Raised on a 142-acre farm, Chek developed a profound connection to nat...
257: Combatting Toxins: Understanding & Solutions - with Wendy Myers

In today's bustling world, we're surrounded by a silent assailant that often goes unnoticed: toxins and heavy metals. As Wendy Myers aptly puts it, these insidious elements lurk in our environment, stealthily infiltrating our bodies through the air we breathe, the food we eat, and the water we drink.Â
But what exactly do these toxins and heavy metals do to our bodies, and how can we combat their harmful effects?
The Threat of Heavy Metals
Research reveals a startling truth: a significant portion of all-cause mortality, as high as 19%, c...
256: Break Free with Muscle Mom - with Amy Fox

Tired of the relentless cycle of yo-yo dieting? Ready for a healthier, sustainable fitness and nutrition path?Â
Fitness coach Amy Fox, founder of the Food and Mood Cafe, shares her expertise on becoming a "muscle mom" — moving past the limitations of restrictive diets and excessive cardio workouts.
Embrace strength training
Amy stresses the significance of maintaining muscle mass through weight training. Contrary to popular belief, it doesn't lead to excessive bulkiness but rather aids in sculpting a lean, toned body.
Amy recommends a balanced diet over extreme res...
255: Gut Microbiome: Key to Health - with Christine Rosche

In today's fast-paced world, maintaining optimal health often feels like a daunting challenge, particularly for young people who experience severe fatigue and various health issues, despite seeking medical advice. Emerging research, however, reveals a crucial element of our well-being lies within: the gut microbiome.
Gut Health: A Keystone of Immunity and Well-being
This vast community of trillions of microorganisms doesn't just reside in our intestines; it plays a pivotal role in numerous bodily functions. Christine Rosche, a distinguished holistic health expert, underscores the microbiome's significant impact on controlling inflammation and bolstering the immune system.
<...254: Radical Life Extension - with Marek Piotrowski
In a world where scientific advancements are pushing the boundaries of what's possible, the quest for radical life extension has emerged as a forefront of innovation. Spearheading this exploration is Marek Piotrowski, whose visionary insights shed light on the transformative potential of extending human lifespan beyond conventional limits.Â
Through the "Beyond Time" project, Piotrowski delves into the realms of cellular reprogramming, technological augmentation, and the profound impact of AI on longevity.
Programming Lifespan
Piotrowski introduces the concept of programming human lifespan, emphasizing the crucial roles played by mental conditioning a...
253: Navigating Through Stress and Trauma - with Jeff Crippen

Resilience emerges from the crucible of adversity, transforming past stress and trauma into pillars of inner strength and fortitude. In a world where minor setbacks can appear as colossal barriers, the importance of understanding resilience cannot be overstated.Â
This article explores insights from Jeff Crippen, highlighting how individuals can leverage their past experiences to foster resilience and excel amidst challenges.
The Anatomy of Resilience
Defined as the capacity to recover from difficulties, resilience is not an innate trait but a skill that can be cultivated over time, using our p...
252: Future Health Through Regenerative Medicine - with Jeffrey Gross

In a world where conventional medical approaches often fall short, the realm of regenerative medicine emerges as a beacon of hope for those seeking alternative solutions to health and longevity challenges.Â
At the forefront of this groundbreaking field stands Dr. Jeffrey Gross, a distinguished neurological surgeon with a passion for exploring the untapped potential of regenerative therapies.
About regenerative medicine
In a recent podcast interview, Dr. Gross delves into the transformative power of regenerative medicine, offering insights into his extensive career journey and the evolution of his approach towards h...
251: Improving Indoor Air Quality - with Mike Feldstein

In recent years, the importance of indoor air quality (IAQ) has gained significant attention, with growing awareness of its impact on health and well-being.Â
Among those leading the charge in understanding and addressing IAQ issues is Mike Feldstein, whose insights and innovations are shedding light on the crucial need for cleaner indoor environments.
Understanding Indoor Air Quality
Indoor air quality can be compromised by a multitude of factors, ranging from cooking activities to outdoor pollutants infiltrating indoor spaces. Mike Feldstein underscores the significance of these influences, emphasizing the need f...
250: Mysteries of the Mushroom Renaissance - with Robert Johnson

The world of mushrooms is undergoing a renaissance, and Robert Johnson is at the forefront, shedding light on its many dimensions. In a recent conversation, Johnson delved into the intricacies of this burgeoning field, offering valuable insights into the evolving landscape of mushroom cultivation, consumption, and its potential impact on health and wellness.
Exploring the Mushroom Pop-Up in Denver: A Glimpse into a New Era
Johnson recounts his experience at a mushroom pop-up event in Denver, which took place shortly after the decriminalization of magic mushrooms in the city. What he...
249: Sexual Health by Dr. Molly Maloof

In the realm of human health, few topics are as multifaceted and integral to overall well-being as sexual health. Dr. Molly Maloof, a prominent figure in the fields of medicine and wellness, offers valuable insights into this complex and often overlooked aspect of human physiology and psychology.Â
From the biological underpinnings of human attraction to the intricacies of intimate relationships, Dr. Maloof's work sheds light on the importance of sexual health in promoting overall vitality and longevity.
Understanding the Importance of Sexual Health
Sexual health encompasses more than just p...