In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Jeff Rouse from Shiftwave to talk about his mind-bending device that claims to reset your nervous system.

I’ll be honest, when I first saw it, I was skeptical. But after trying it at the Parker University conference, I was blown away by what it did. We dig into how the tech works, why it’s so effective for both physical and mental health, and how it’s being used everywhere from mental health therapy to pro sports.

Dr. Rouse brings a fascinating mix of psychiatry, quantum biology, and wellness tech expertise to the conversation. He explains the science behind Shift Wave, the principles that make it tick, and some of its wildest protocols, like “synthetic sleep.”

If you’re into cutting-edge tools that help you recover faster, feel better, and perform at your best, this one’s worth the listen.

Sponsors:

• Shiftwave: https://shiftwave.co/drmiketnelson
  • Save $300 with the link above. Note: This is an affiliate link.
• Daily Fitness Insider Newsletter: https://flex-diet.kit.com/bfa1510fa8

Available now:

• Grab a copy of the Triphasic Training II book I co-wrote with Cal Deitz here.

Episode Chapters:

• 02:47 Meet Dr. Jeff Rouse: Background and Expertise
• 03:09 Sponsorship and Personal Endorsement
• 05:01 Understanding Shift Wave: Dr. Jeff's Explanation
• 06:37 The Impact of Shift Wave on the Nervous System
• 17:34 Shift Wave in Practice: Real-World Applications
• 31:45 The Role of Sleep in Nervous System Regulation
• 38:03 Synthetic Sleep Protocols: An Innovative Approach
• 39:27 Exploring Synthetic Sleep Protocols
• 40:09 Physiological Effects of Deep Relaxation
• 45:43 Potential Benefits for Athletic Performance
• 49:59 Vagal Nerve Stimulation and Cognitive Enhancement
• 54:42 Mechanoreception and Natural Pathways
• 01:00:14 Personalized Biofeedback and Protocols
• 01:06:37 Daily Use Recommendations for Shift Wave
• 01:11:34 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Flex Diet Podcasts You May Enjoy: 

• Episode 283: Unlocking Better Sleep and Stress Reduction with Dr. Dan Cohen of Soltec Health
  • YouTube: https://youtu.be/VInoz9ItGfw
• Episode 273: Unlocking Better Sleep: Insights and Strategies from Dr. Chris Perry
  • YouTube: https://youtu.be/BHGBAKtsdWI

Connect with Dr Rouse:

• Website: https://shiftwave.co/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shiftwavepro

Get In Touch with Dr Mike:

• Instagram: Drmiketnelson
• YouTube: @flexdietcert
• Email: Miketnelson.com/contact-us

In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I sit down with my good friend Dr. John Rusin to dig into his new book, Pain-Free Performance: Move Better, Train Smarter, and Build an Unbreakable Body. We talk all things movement, strength, and longevity—how to actually perform at a high level without wrecking yourself in the process.

John drops some serious wisdom from decades of training and coaching, and we get into the real science behind balancing load, recovery, and pain management so you can keep crushing it for the long haul.

If you want to know how to train hard, move well, and build a body that lasts, you’ll definitely want to tune in.

Sponsors:

• Beyond Power Voltra1: https://www.beyond-power.com/michael13
• Daily Fitness Insider Newsletter: https://flex-diet.kit.com/bfa1510fa8

Available now:

• Grab a copy of the Triphasic Training II book I co-wrote with Cal Deitz here.

Episode Chapters:

• 03:15 Conversation with Dr. John Russin Begins
• 04:16 The Journey of Writing 'Pain-Free Performance'
• 06:16 Challenges and Insights in Book Writing
• 12:12 Health and Longevity in Fitness Coaching
• 14:54 The Importance of Recovery and Self-Care
• 24:14 The Future of Fitness: Health First Approach
• 27:42 Social Media vs. Real Education in Fitness
• 30:25 The Challenge of Authenticity in Fitness Coaching
• 31:07 The Value of Books and Live Events
• 32:03 Targeting the Right Audience in Fitness
• 44:59 The Importance of Foundational Movement Patterns
• 47:38 Effective Ratios for Balanced Training
• 51:12 Integrating Functional Movements for Injury Prevention
• 56:02 The Role of Storytelling in Fitness Education
• 58:28 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Flex Diet Podcasts You May Enjoy: 

• Episode 343: Fueling the Corporate Athlete: Stress, Supplements & Performance with Dan Hunter
  • https://youtu.be/0ek4XSs62RQ 
• Episode 314: Unlocking Performance & Recovery: IV Therapies & Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy with Jordyn Payne
  • https://youtu.be/qnJHcepDx1c

Connect with Dr Rusin:

• Pain-Free Performance: Move Better, Train Smarter, and Build an Unbreakable Body: https://www.amazon.com/Pain-Free-Performance-Better-Smarter-Unbreakable/dp/162860509X
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjohnrusincoaching/
• Website: https://drjohnrusin.com/

Get In Touch with Dr Mike:

• Instagram: Drmiketnelson
• YouTube: @flexdietcert
• Email: Miketnelson.com/contact-us

In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I sit down with my good friend Dr. Dan Pardi for a deep dive into all things health, longevity, and cognitive performance. We get into the science of stem cells and aging, the real benefits (and limits) of popular supplements, and how nootropics like Ritalin and Modafinil actually work—or don’t—in the real world.

We also talk about how to integrate training and movement into insanely busy lives, the psychology of health behavior, and why being flexible in your approach (not just in your hamstrings) is key to long-term success.

This episode is brought to you by Quaia Life, where Dan’s doing some fascinating work on cutting-edge supplements designed to optimize health and performance. They’re offering listeners 15% off their products, which you can grab through the link in the show notes.

If you want a mix of actionable tips, science-backed insights, and a peek behind the curtain of how top researchers think about performance and aging, you’ll definitely want to tune in.

Sponsors:

• Daily Fitness Insider Newsletter: https://flex-diet.kit.com/bfa1510fa8
• Qualia: https://qualialife.com/drmike15
  • Coupon Code: DRMIKE15 (listeners get an additional 15% off any Qualia order)

Available now:

• Grab a copy of the Triphasic Training II book I co-wrote with Cal Deitz here.

Episode Chapters:

• 01:51 Science Communication and Cognitive Performance
• 02:43 Sponsorship and Product Endorsement
• 04:54 The Importance of Flexibility in Training
• 06:39 Integrative and Opportunistic Training
• 15:50 The Psychology of Health and Performance
• 24:12 Quality of Life and Nootropics
• 31:12 Understanding Cognitive Enhancement
• 44:30 Modafinil and Its Effects
• 50:50 Exploring the Benefits and Downsides of a New Drug
• 51:22 Mechanisms and Effects of the Drug
• 52:42 Hallmarks of Aging and Their Impact
• 58:07 Understanding Stem Cells and Their Functions
• 01:01:52 Formulating a Stem Cell Supplement
• 01:10:18 Sequencing Protocols for Optimal Health
• 01:15:13 Challenges and Research in the Supplement Industry
• 01:23:33 Final Thoughts and Recommendations
• 01:34:29 Podcast Conclusion and Disclaimers 

Flex Diet Podcasts You May Enjoy: 

• Episode 263: Lifestyle, Longevity, and the Future of GLP-1 Agonist Use in Wellness with Christa Rymal
  • YouTube: https://youtu.be/SlALIb74KvM
• Episode 165: Health, Sports Performance and Longevity Medicine: Dr Rick Cohen with Dr. Mike T Nelson
  • YouTube: https://youtu.be/bYk_wzBJzJY

Connect with Dr Pardi:

• Qualia: https://www.qualialife.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dan_pardi

Get In Touch with Dr Mike:

• Instagram: Drmiketnelson
• YouTube: @flexdietcert
• Email: Miketnelson.com/contact-us

In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I’m joined by Dr. Eila Wolf, who specializes in functional neurology and Chinese medicine. We dig into how these fields come together to help people dealing with concussions, migraines, and chronic pain — and why traditional approaches often fall short.

Dr. Wolf walks us through the science behind her methods, including how acupuncture, vestibular work, and eye movement assessments can reveal what’s really going on in the brain after an injury. We also talk about her new book, The Concussion Breakthrough, and how it’s helping patients who’ve been struggling with long-term symptoms finally find a path forward.

If you want a deeper understanding of how the brain heals — and how functional neurology can help you or someone you know recover faster and more completely — you’ll get a ton out of this conversation.

Sponsors:

• Beyond Power Voltra 1: https://www.beyond-power.com/michael13
• Tecton Ketone Esters: https://tectonketones.com

Available now:

• Grab a copy of the Triphasic Training II book I co-wrote with Cal Deitz here.

Episode Chapters:

• 00:46 Exploring Functional Neurology
• 01:23 Concussions and Eye Movements
• 02:09 Dr. Wolf’s Book and Newsletter
• 02:42 Starting the Conversation
• 02:49 Dr. Wolf’s Lecture at Northwestern
• 03:40 Better PowerPoint Presentation Tips
• 04:29 Challenges of Creating New Talks
• 05:57 AI in Research and Presentation
• 07:22 Cadaver Lab Experience in Toronto
• 09:07 Acupuncture and Anatomical Research
• 09:54 History and Acceptance of Chinese Medicine
• 11:47 Skepticism and Evidence in Acupuncture
• 13:41 Research Design Challenges
• 17:18 Innovative Acupuncture Studies
• 21:34 Psychedelics and Research
• 23:15 Dr. Wolf’s Journey into Acupuncture
• 27:08 Favorite Herbs and Their Benefits
• 29:16 Introduction to Functional Neurology
• 33:18 Case Studies and Clinical Insights
• 35:59 Sensory Tricks for Migraines
• 38:13 Mechanisms Behind Sensory Tricks
• 39:32 Light Sensitivity and the Midbrain
• 40:45 Personal Experience with a Health App
• 41:31 Understanding Light Sensitivity
• 42:59 Case Study: Pupil Response and Eye Pain
• 44:09 Eye Movements & Concussion Diagnosis
• 47:06 Gaze Stability and Neurological Insights
• 52:19 The Concussion Breakthrough Book
• 55:45 Complex Cases in Functional Neurology
• 01:04:27 Visual + Vestibular Integration
• 01:14:55 Final Thoughts and Resources 

Flex Diet Podcasts You May Enjoy: 

• Episode 132: The Effects of Creatine Supplements on Brain Function, Concussion, and Sports Performance with Dr Eric Rawson
  • YouTube: https://youtu.be/g7f8yHNlawU 
• Episode 311: Maximizing Athletic Performance with Neurology: Insights from Dr. Dylan Seeley
  • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bnuYQ-GJ6to

Connect with Dr Wolf:

• The Concussion Breakthrough: https://www.amazon.com/Concussion-Breakthrough-Discover-Missing-Recovery/dp/B0FDBLVDVH
• Website: https://www.acupunctureneurology.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ayla_wolf354

Get In Touch with Dr Mike:

• Instagram: Drmiketnelson
• YouTube: @flexdietcert
• Email: Miketnelson.com/contact-us

In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I’m joined by Erin Silver Lee, the CEO of Flow Neuroscience. We dig into some seriously cool stuff — including Flow’s recent acquisition of the Halo device, which uses non-invasive brain stimulation (TDCS) to boost both athletic and mental performance.

Erin and I talk about how this tech works, what the current research says, and how it’s being applied to improve focus, sleep, neuroplasticity, and overall brain health. We also get into the real-world side of things — from navigating FDA regulations to running clinical trials and shaping the future of personalized brain optimization.

If you’re curious about where neuroscience meets performance — and how safe, evidence-based brain stimulation might fit into the next generation of recovery and training tools — you’ll want to check this one out.

Sponsors:

• Beyond Power Voltra 1: https://www.beyond-power.com/michael13
• Tecton Ketone Esters: https://tectonketones.com

Available now:

• Grab a copy of the Triphasic Training II book I co-wrote with Cal Deitz here.

Episode Chapters:

• 00:38 Background on Halo Device and Flow Neuroscience
• 01:50 Acquisition and Technology Insights
• 02:09 FDA Regulation and Consumer Approval
• 06:02 New Device Focus and User Benefits
• 07:29 Device Design and Usage
• 08:45 Impact on Sleep and Mental Performance
• 16:17 Personalization and Future Developments
• 26:06 Focus and Concentration Benefits
• 29:33 Navigating FDA Regulations
• 30:35 Depression Treatment Success in Europe
• 30:51 Challenges with Regulatory Approval
• 31:50 Real-World Success and Halo Product Launch
• 33:23 Navigating FDA Approval and Bias
• 42:45 Clinical Trials and Expanding Indications
• 51:25 Brain Health and Personal Practices
• 55:33 Podcast Conclusion and Listener Information 

Flex Diet Podcasts You May Enjoy: 

• Episode 346: From Navy SEAL to Neuroscience: Dr. Blaine Lints on Ibogaine and Performance
  • YouTube: https://youtu.be/8UNGgyqBWm0 
• Episode 241: A New Perspective on Brain Health with Dr. Shaun Kornfeld
  • YouTube: https://youtu.be/1HcgPp6Wz7Q

Connect with Flow Neuroscience:

• Website: https://www.haloneuroscience.com/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/halo.neuroscience
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HaloNeuroscience
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/halo-neuroscience/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/halo.neuro/

Get In Touch with Dr Mike:

• Instagram: Drmiketnelson
• YouTube: @flexdietcert
• Email: Miketnelson.com/contact-us

In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I dive into practical ways to boost muscle growth, enhance performance, and improve body composition — all within a flexible, health-focused framework.

I also talk about my Physiologic Flexibility Certification, which is closing for enrollment soon, and unpack key concepts like Human Dynamic Range (HDR) and cross-adaptation. HDR is all about building a wider physiological range — the ability to handle more stress and recover faster — while cross-adaptation looks at how training one system (like heat or hypoxia) can improve others.

Plus, I dig into new research and share actionable strategies you can use right now to strengthen your cardiovascular and respiratory systems.

Sponsors:

• Physiologic Flexibility Certification Course open Monday, Oct. 13 to Monday, Oct. 20: https://miketnelsons.samcart.com/products/physflex/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/

Triphasic 2 book now available!

• Go to https://triphasic2.com/

Episode Chapters:

• 00:20 Important Announcement: Physiologic Flexibility Certification
• 01:57 Key Concepts in Physiologic Flexibility
• 02:14 Human Dynamic Range Explained
• 06:01 Cross Adaptation: Heat and Hypoxia
• 08:24 Research Studies and Findings
• 20:33 Practical Applications and Protocols
• 24:32 Conclusion and Certification Details
• 28:21 Disclaimer and Final Notes

Get In Touch with Dr Mike:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpg
• Email: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/

In this episode, I’m sharing a special rebroadcast of my chat with Dr. Mikki Williden all about physiologic flexibility, including how to train your body to handle stress and adapt better. We cover metabolic flexibility, heat and cold exposure, sauna and cold therapy, lactate and buffering systems, plus CO₂ and O₂ tolerance. You’ll learn how these systems connect to boost performance, recovery, and body composition in a healthy, sustainable way.

Sponsor:

• Physiologic Flexibility Certification Course open Monday, Oct. 13 to Monday, Oct. 20: https://miketnelsons.samcart.com/products/physflex/

Triphasic 2 book now available!

• Go to https://triphasic2.com/

Episode Chapters:

• 01:39 Introduction by Dr. Mikki Williden
• 02:43 Dr. Mike T. Nelson's Background
• 06:53 Discussion on Metabolic and Physiologic Flexibility
• 15:09 Personal Experiences and Experiments
• 16:28 Cold Exposure and Its Effects
• 25:28 Heat Exposure and Adaptation
• 31:36 Psychological Benefits of Cold Exposure
• 34:31 Practical Recommendations for Cold and Heat Exposure
• 39:52 Understanding pH Balance and Acid Tolerance
• 41:52 Understanding Lactate and Its Role in Exercise
• 43:19 Buffering Systems and Supplements
• 49:11 High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) Insights
• 53:02 Breathing Techniques and CO2 Tolerance
• 57:44 Altitude Training and Oxygen Regulation
• 01:06:34 Metabolic Flexibility and Ketones
• 01:14:39 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Get In Touch with Dr Mike:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpg
• Email: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/

In this episode, I break down my Physiologic Flexibility Certification — an advanced course designed to help you build a more adaptable, resilient body. I’ll walk you through the four key pillars of human performance: temperature regulation, pH balance, fuel use, and air/CO₂ control. You’ll hear how this cert expands on my Flex Diet Certification to improve recovery, strength, and overall health using practical strategies and modern wearable tech. Enrollment is open October 13–20, 2025.

Sponsor:

• Physiologic Flexibility Certification Course open Monday, Oct. 13 to Monday, Oct. 20: https://miketnelsons.samcart.com/products/physflex/

Triphasic 2 book now available!

• Go to https://triphasic2.com/

Episode Chapters:

• 01:09 Metabolic Flexibility vs. Physiologic Flexibility
• 02:42 Four Pillars of Physiologic Flexibility
• 06:07 Deep Dive into Temperature Regulation
• 07:19 Understanding pH and Buffering Systems
• 09:35 Fuel Systems: Carbohydrates and Ketones
• 11:58 Air and CO2 Regulation
• 15:06 Practical Applications and Technology
• 30:26 Conclusion and Certification Details

Get In Touch with Dr Mike:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpg
• Email: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/

In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I chat with Dr. Blaine Lints, a former Navy SEAL and performance physiologist, about boosting performance, muscle, and resilience through flexible strategies. We dig into his research on ketones, caffeine, and theacrine, plus his work using Ibogaine for TBI recovery. I also break down how physiologic flexibility ties it all together for next-level performance and recovery.

If you’re into cutting-edge performance science, brain optimization, or just want to hear two nerds talk physiology and Navy SEAL mental toughness, this one’s for you.

Sponsors:

• Beyond Power Voltra 1: https://www.beyond-power.com/michael13
• Tecton Ketone Esters: https://tectonketones.com

Available now:

• Grab a copy of the Triphasic Training II book I co-wrote with Cal Deitz here.

Episode Chapters:

• 07:30 Interview with Dr. Blaine Lints Begins
• 08:20 Research on Caffeine and Theacrine
• 22:12 Dr. Lints' Ironman Journey
• 34:23 Exploring Ketones and Heat Stress
• 52:56 Exploring Ketone Esters and Their Benefits
• 53:52 Personal Experiences with Ketone Dosages
• 55:28 Research Insights on Ketone Mono Esters
• 57:34 Ibogaine Study for Special Operators
• 01:00:12 Personal Journey with Ibogaine Treatment
• 01:04:23 Potential of Psychedelic Medicines
• 01:10:26 Safety and Legality of Psychedelic Treatments
• 01:18:56 Future of Psychedelic Research and Applications
• 01:26:32 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Flex Diet Podcasts You May Enjoy: 

• Episode 311: Maximizing Athletic Performance with Neurology: Insights from Dr. Dylan Seeley
  • YouTube: https://youtu.be/bnuYQ-GJ6to. 
• Episode 167: The Physiologic and Psychologic Benefit of Doing Hard Things: Akshay Nanavati of Fearvana with Dr Mike T Nelson
  • YouTube: https://youtu.be/G_iFVGHZSEs

Connect with Blaine:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blainekets

Get In Touch with Dr Mike:

• Instagram: Drmiketnelson
• YouTube: @flexdietcert
• Email: Miketnelson.com/contact-us

In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I’m diving headfirst into the science of sleep with two heavy hitters—Dr. J Wiles and Dr. Jeff Dermer from Absolute Rest.

We cover it all: why sleep is such a big deal from an evolutionary standpoint, how your modern lifestyle is probably trashing it, and what you can actually do to fix it. We dig into behavioral changes, the role of wearables versus legit lab sleep studies, and practical, no-BS strategies to get better shut-eye.

Jay Wiles and Jeremy Durmer break down Absolute Rest’s comprehensive approach, examining the psychological, physiological, and environmental factors that influence sleep. Translation: it’s not just “buy a new pillow and call it good.”

We also get into the fun stuff like caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol—how they mess with your recovery and performance—and why making small behavioral shifts and value-based choices can keep your sleep dialed in for the long haul.

If you’ve ever wondered how to stop treating sleep like an optional side quest and instead make it one of your biggest performance enhancers, this one’s for you.

Sponsors:

• LMNT electrolyte drink mix: https://drinklmnt.com/
• Get my free magnesium guide: https://miket.me/mag

Available now:

• Grab a copy of the Triphasic Training II book I co-wrote with Cal Deitz here.

Episode Chapters:

• 06:13 The Importance of Sleep: Evolutionary and Scientific Perspectives
• 11:40 Sleep Deprivation Studies and Their Implications
• 16:54 Unihemispheric Sleep: Can Humans Do It?
• 25:00 Personalized Sleep Needs and Efficiency
• 36:44 Personalized Sleep Assessment
• 37:28 Subjective Experience in Sleep Quality
• 38:20 Comprehensive Sleep Testing
• 38:58 Autonomic Sleep Testing Explained
• 39:32 Behavioral and Psychological Factors
• 41:29 Polysomnography and Its Evolution
• 47:23 Home Sleep Testing Innovations
• 48:14 Cardiopulmonary Coupling and Sleep Quality
• 56:35 Heart Rate Variability and Sleep
• 01:06:44 Behavior Change and Value Systems
• 01:13:50 Struggles with Sleep and Coaching Solutions
• 01:14:27 Blocking Data to Improve Sleep Coaching
• 01:14:58 Empowering Clients to Interpret Sleep Data
• 01:15:41 The Importance of Sleep Regularity
• 01:17:24 Caffeine and Nicotine's Impact on Sleep
• 01:19:07 Genetics and Supplements in Sleep Health
• 01:21:39 Behavioral Changes for Better Sleep
• 01:27:35 Comprehensive Sleep Program Overview
• 01:41:02 Addressing Sleep Issues in Children
• 01:45:00 Podcast Conclusion and Resources 

Flex Diet Podcasts You May Enjoy: 

• Episode 310: Unpacking the Science of Sleep with Dr. Allison Brager: https://miketnelson.com/episode-310-unpacking-the-science-of-sleep-with-dr-allison-brager/
  • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fhS0qsF1OHs 
• Episode 283: Unlocking Better Sleep and Stress Reduction with Dr. Dan Cohen of Soltec Health: https://miketnelson.com/episode-283-unlocking-better-sleep-and-stress-reduction-with-dr-dan-cohen-of-soltec-health/
  • YouTube: https://youtu.be/VInoz9ItGfw

Connect with Jay and Jeremy:

• Absolute Rest: https://www.absoluterest.com/

Get In Touch with Dr Mike:

• Instagram: Drmiketnelson
• YouTube: @flexdietcert
• Email: Miketnelson.com/contact-us