What if the secret to living a longer, healthier life wasn’t in a pill, supplement, or biohacking trend—but in your environment, relationships, and daily habits?

In this episode, I sit down with Dan Buettner, National Geographic explorer, bestselling author, and longevity researcher, to break down the science of the Blue Zones—regions of the world where people live the longest and thrive well into their 90s and 100s.

We dive deep into the data-driven habits that contribute to longevity, why your social circle can determine your health, and the biggest myths about aging and diet. Dan also shares his response to recent criticisms about the Blue Zones and reveals new emerging longevity hotspots based on his latest research.

In this episode, we cover:

✔️ The 5 regions in the world where people consistently live the longest

✔️ Why community and social connection are more powerful than willpower

✔️ The ideal longevity diet based on decades of research

✔️ How your environment is the #1 factor in shaping health outcomes

✔️ The biggest longevity myths - and what actually works

✔️ How modern society is eroding these Blue Zone principles - and what we can do about it

Who is Dan Buettner?

Dan Buettner is a National Geographic fellow, New York Times bestselling author, and founder of Blue Zones, a research initiative dedicated to understanding and applying the world’s best practices for longevity. His work has led to policy changes in over 70 cities to improve public health, and his Netflix documentary, Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones, explores these regions in depth.

👉 Connect with Dan Buettner:

• Website: www.bluezones.com
• Instagram: @danbuettner

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Thank you to my wonderful sponsors! 

OneSkin | Topical Products for Healthy Aging

http://oneskin.co/LWBW 

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If you enjoyed this episode, you might also like:

Live to 100 with Secrets of the Blue Zones: What The Longest Living People Eat Daily | Dan Buettner

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UUHR8wwSVIs

Ellen Langer: The Mind Can Slow Down an Aging Body

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VGpNMy1VxsY

Most Extreme Anti-Ageing Routine: How To STAY YOUNG Forever & Look 18 Again | Bryan Johnson

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6G-Ax76WwXM

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Science Simplified, Health Humanised. Join thousands in exploring actionable insights that prioritise compassion, clarity, and real-life impact. https://sarahmacklin.substack.com/

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Highlights:

Introduction (00:00)

Blue Zones – Secrets of Longevity (02:39)

Three Essential Habits for a Longer Life (06:59)

The Power of Purpose in Longevity (10:14)

How Volunteering Boosts Well-Being and Self-Worth (14:50)

Lessons from Centenarians: Wisdom for a Longer Life (17:07)

How to Design a Blue Zone Environment (22:17)

Eating for Longevity: Key Dietary Principles (28:33)

Why It’s Hard to Eat Healthy in Today’s Food Landscape (34:05)

Making Nutritious, Affordable Food Accessible in Inner Cities (36:47)

How Modern Life Is Eroding Blue Zones (41:42)

Debunking the Myths and Controversies Around Blue Zones (47:01)

Why Environment Matters More Than Willpower for Longevity (53:14)

The Future of Blue Zones: New Regions and What’s Next (01:00:53)

Closing Thoughts – Living Well, Being Well (01:08:14)

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