Flex Diet Podcast

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

Get the Daily Fitness Insider newsletter (free): https://www.miketnelson.com/newsletter

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

Get the Daily Fitness Insider newsletter (free): https://www.miketnelson.com/newsletter

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/

Get the Daily Fitness Insider newsletter (free): https://www.miketnelson.com/newsletter

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/

Get the Daily Fitness Insider newsletter (free): https://www.miketnelson.com/newsletter

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/

Get the Daily Fitness Insider newsletter (free): https://www.miketnelson.com/newsletter

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

Get the Daily Fitness Insider newsletter (free): https://www.miketnelson.com/newsletter

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

Get the Daily Fitness Insider newsletter (free): https://www.miketnelson.com/newsletter

On this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I’m joined once again by Dr. Phil Batterson to nerd out on one of my favorite topics: anaerobic metabolism. We dig into what’s really happening during high-intensity training, the role of lactate, and why much of the “anaerobic vs. aerobic” discussion you hear is oversimplified (or just plain wrong).

We also get into the nuts and bolts of how your bioenergetic systems adapt, why cardio equipment can actually be a powerful training tool, and where metabolic carts fit into the picture. Along the way, Phil drops practical examples you can use to better understand your own performance. If you want a clear, science-backed breakdown of anaerobic training without the fluff, this episode is for you.

Sponsors:

• LMNT electrolyte drink mix: https://drinklmnt.com/
• Get your rower and assault bike at Rouge https://miket.me/rogue

Available now:

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

Episode Chapters:

• 04:58 Personal Updates and Business Insights
• 12:37 Anaerobic vs. Aerobic Metabolism Discussion
• 15:00 Training Techniques and Adaptations
• 21:07 Challenges in Hybrid Training
• 24:43 Exploring the ATP-PC System
• 33:59 Introduction to Bioenergetic Systems
• 34:05 Understanding Energy Systems in Exercise
• 34:35 The Role of ATP and Phosphocreatine
• 35:08 Intensity and Energy System Utilization
• 35:46 Fatigue and Muscle Contraction
• 36:38 Misconceptions in Exercise Physiology
• 37:42 Lactate and Its Role in Exercise
• 40:18 High-Intensity Training Adaptations
• 41:46 VO2 Max and Training Protocols
• 42:40 Balancing Aerobic and Anaerobic Training
• 43:58 Effective Training Strategies
• 55:00 Heart Rate and Performance Metrics
• 01:00:07 Lactate: Myths and Realities
• 01:09:30 Buffering Capacity and Adaptations
• 01:16:03 BFR Bands and Intense Workouts
• 01:16:38 The Importance of Cardiovascular Training for Lifters
• 01:17:21 Debunking Myths About Cardiac Development
• 01:18:04 Anaerobic and Aerobic Training Insights
• 01:18:47 Effective Aerobic Training Strategies
• 01:19:42 Maintaining VO2 Max with Minimal Effort
• 01:20:12 Mitochondrial Function and Effective Workouts
• 01:20:49 Where to Find Dr. Phil Batterson
• 01:24:13 VO2 Max Testing and Interpretation
• 01:28:42 Challenges in Lactate Threshold Testing
• 01:39:00 Dynamic Range and Performance
• 01:44:59 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Flex Diet Podcasts You May Enjoy: 

• Episode 264: Finding Your Aerobic Sweet Spot for Peak Health with Dr Phil Batterson
  • YouTube: https://youtu.be/5j90cmi_I6k 
• Episode 275: Mastering Combat Sports Conditioning Using Advanced Training Techniques with Strength Coach James Tognarini
  • YouTube: https://youtu.be/t9Hc-VrsY4k

Connect with Dr Phil Batterson:

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

Get In Touch with Dr Mike:

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

Get the Daily Fitness Insider newsletter (free): https://www.miketnelson.com/newsletter

On this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I sit down with Dan Hunter to talk all things “corporate athlete.” If you’re trying to crush it at work and not feel like a melted quesadilla by 3 p.m., this one’s for you.

We dig into the real-world challenges of staying sharp under stress, from building sustainable habits to fueling your brain with tools like creatine, ketones, and amino acids. We also explore how physical stress affects cognitive performance, the importance of trust-building, and what actually works when it comes to supplements. Tons of actionable takeaways here for anyone looking to upgrade both body and brain in high-stress environments.

Sponsors:

• Beyond Power Voltra 1: https://www.beyond-power.com/michael13
• LMNT electrolyte drink mix: https://drinklmnt.com/
• Fitness Daily Insider: 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:

• 02:57 Reconnecting with Dan Hunter
• 03:37 Challenges and Insights in Coaching
• 05:15 The Importance of Applied Knowledge
• 08:29 Corporate Athletes vs. Professional Athletes
• 18:38 The Role of Identity and Habit Formation
• 28:40 The Value of Coaching and Accountability
• 34:41 Applying Holistic Approaches to Corporate Athletes
• 35:17 Building Trust with Corporate Clients
• 38:31 Incorporating Cognitive Tasks in Training
• 40:50 Exploring the Benefits of Ketones and Supplements
• 51:15 The Role of Glutamine and Other Supplements
• 55:06 Innovative Supplement Formulations
• 01:02:12 Contact Information and Locations
• 39:25 The Power of Cognitive Elements in Fitness
• 40:50 Exploring Ketones and Cognitive Function
• 41:10 Creatine and Ketones: Practical Insights
• 42:27 The Science Behind Ketones and Carbohydrates
• 46:19 Supplements and Their Impact on Performance
• 46:53 The Role of Carnitine and Other Supplements
• 52:09 Innovative Supplement Formulations
• 55:01 Sleep and Recovery: Effective Supplements
• 59:40 Amino ATP and Energy Boosting
• 01:02:07 Conclusion and Contact Information

Connect with Dan:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danhunter85/
• Website: https://www.danhunter.be/

Get In Touch with Dr Mike:

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

Get the Daily Fitness Insider newsletter (free): https://www.miketnelson.com/newsletter

On this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I’m joined by award-winning journalist and food nerd David Page, the guy who created Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. We get into the wild evolution of American cuisine, the social role of food, and how to balance eating what you love with not tanking your health.

David also shares his personal story with diabetes and weight loss, plus some practical cooking tips you can actually use. It’s part history lesson, part food therapy, and a whole lot of fun. Don’t forget to check out the sponsors and subscribe to my free daily newsletter for nerdy nuggets on nutrition, training, and metabolism—plus a free gift just for signing up.

Sponsors:

• Beyond Power Voltra 1: https://www.beyond-power.com/michael13
• PNOE - tell them Dr Mike T sent ya: https://pnoe.com
• Killswitch for sleep: https://www.switchsupplements.com/DRMIKE use code DRMIKE to save $$

Available now:

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

Episode Chapters:

• 04:34 The Evolution of Chinese and Italian Cuisine in America
• 08:50 The Impact of Post-WWII Era on American Food Culture
• 15:19 Cooking Tips and Healthy Eating Strategies
• 24:08 Balancing Indulgence and Healthy Eating
• 25:16 A Personal Journey to Weight Loss
• 26:05 The Role of Medical Professionals in Managing Diabetes
• 27:14 Effective Diet Plans and Medications
• 28:21 Maintaining Weight Loss and Counting Calories
• 30:08 Exercise and Personal Fitness Routines
• 33:52 The Story Behind Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives
• 36:33 The Challenges and Rewards of the Restaurant Industry
• 39:37 Exploring Regional Barbecue Styles
• 41:51 Launching a Culinary Podcast
• 46:26 Closing Remarks and Podcast Information

Connect with David:

•  Culinary Characters Unlocked: https://culinarycharactersunlocked.com/

Get In Touch with Dr Mike:

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

Get the Daily Fitness Insider newsletter (free): https://www.miketnelson.com/newsletter