What if everything you’ve been taught about happiness… is wrong?

Yale psychology professor and host of The Happiness Lab, Dr. Laurie Santos, joins Darin to dismantle the biggest myths we believe about fulfillment—and reveal what actually works. From social comparison and toxic positivity to hedonic adaptation and brain rewiring, this episode offers science-backed, soul-refreshing insights that just might change your life.

 

 

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• 00:00 – Welcome to the show + sponsor message (Thera Sage)

• 02:00 – What sparked Laurie’s lifelong study of happiness

• 04:00 – The crisis of mental health in students—and why it matters for everyone

• 06:00 – Why getting into Yale didn’t make students happier

• 08:00 – The "arrival fallacy" and the myth of circumstantial happiness

• 10:00 – Why our culture is confused—and our brains are wired backwards

• 12:00 – Hedonic adaptation: why nothing stays good for long

• 14:00 – How dopamine, comparison, and fear cycles keep us stuck

• 16:00 – Natural selection didn’t design you to be happy

• 18:00 – Why living in the present moment is harder than ever

• 20:00 – The devastating impact of tech on joy, connection, and presence

• 22:00 – Why even small social gestures create massive emotional shifts

• 24:00 – The toxic trap of “Good Vibes Only”

• 26:00 – What negative emotions are really trying to tell you

• 28:00 – Gratitude for the signal: rethinking anger, frustration, and overwhelm

• 30:00 – Curiosity over judgment: why your emotion isn’t the problem

• 32:00 – How to begin shifting when you feel stuck and disconnected

• 34:00 – The misunderstood power of self-compassion

• 36:00 – “Go gentle”: the science of slow, sustainable success

• 38:00 – Reclaiming your values in a noisy, comparison-driven world

• 40:00 – The science of time affluence and behavioral change

• 42:00 – Mindset, mindfulness, and the daily rituals that shift perspective

• 44:00 – How awe rewires the brain and inspires action

• 46:00 – Finding wonder in nature, stillness, and even YouTube

• 48:00 – What dogs can teach us about presence

• 50:00 – How to train happiness in kids (and ourselves)

• 52:00 – The #1 truth about happiness most people ignore

• 54:00 – Why knowing the science isn’t enough—you have to live it

• 56:00 – From Aristotle to modern science: the path to the “good life”

• 58:00 – Final insights + how to pursue lasting fulfillment

 

Thank You to Our Sponsors:

• Thera Sage – Premium red light, PEMF & infrared tools for total-body wellness 🌿 Get 15% off at therasage.com with code DARIN

• Shakeology – Darin’s daily superfood shake with botanicals, fiber, prebiotics & more 🧠 Visit shakeology.com and use code SUPERLIFE for 15% off, free shipping, and a free shaker cup!

• Our Place: Toxic-free, durable cookware that supports healthy cooking. Use code DARIN for 10% off at fromourplace.com.

 

Follow Dr. Laurie Santos:

• Podcast: The Happiness Lab

• Yale Course: Psychology and the Good Life

• Instagram: @lauriesantosofficial

 

 

Connect with Darin Olien:

• Website: darinolien.com

• Instagram: @darinolien

• Book: Fatal Conveniences

• SuperLife Platform: superlife.com

 

 

Key Takeaway:

"Your brain wasn’t built to make you happy—it was built to keep you alive. But you get to decide how to live." – Dr. Laurie Santos

What if you’re not lost—you’re just living by someone else’s script?

In this raw and empowering solo episode, Darin takes you on a journey of truth, reconnection, and resilience. This isn’t just motivation—it’s a blueprint for anyone ready to detach from toxic programming, reconnect to purpose, and finally remember who they are. Blending science, soul, and storytelling, this is your reminder that you are not broken—you’re buried. And it’s time to rise.

 

 

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• 00:00 – Introduction to Super Life + the episode’s intention

• 00:33 – Shoutout to Thera Sage + the healing tech Darin swears by

• 02:28 – What if everything you were taught about life is backwards?

• 03:42 – Distraction, numbness, and the illusion of fulfillment

• 05:06 – Why simply saying “hello” is radical healing

• 06:30 – What science says about purpose, presence, and longevity

• 07:43 – Mindfulness + nature: the real biohack

• 08:40 – Emotional fulfillment over empty success

• 09:45 – Viktor Frankl, meaning through suffering, and choosing growth

• 10:24 – Why society keeps us anxious, and how to escape it

• 10:51 – The SuperMind program: Darin’s neuroscience-backed mental reset

• 12:05 – Stress, sleep, energy, workouts—how SuperMind adapts to your day

• 13:53 – “Those who have a why can bear almost any how”

• 14:34 – What it really means to live a super life

• 15:43 – You don’t need to quit your job or run away—just realign

• 16:56 – The “No Mask Day” + radical honesty with yourself

• 18:44 – Move. Breathe. Be in nature. Craft your own success

• 20:04 – Happiness only exists here and now—not after “the goal”

• 21:16 – Super Life isn’t a brand—it’s a remembering

• 22:23 – Darin’s early trauma and how disconnection nearly ended him

• 23:35 – Meet resistance with your values, not with fear

• 24:10 – Divorce, relocation, millions—none of it will save you

• 25:02 – The weed through concrete: nature’s lesson in resilience

• 26:17 – Darin’s final call: join the movement and live your super life

 

 

Don’t Forget...

I just launched my brand new program Superlife Supermind. Visit my website https://superlife.com/ to learn more about how you can get rid of stress, improve sleep and overall health today.

 

 

Thank You to Our Sponsors:

• Thera Sage – Premium infrared, PEMF & red light tools for total cellular healing. 🧠 Get 15% off at therasage.com with code DARIEN

 

 

Connect with Darin Olien:

• Website: darinolien.com

• Instagram: @darinolien

• Book: Fatal Conveniences

 

 

Key Takeaway:

"You don’t need more hacks. You need to remember who you are." – Darin Olien

What if stress could make you stronger, not sicker?

In this expansive episode, Darin sits down with Jeff Krasno, founder of Commune, to explore how we’ve misunderstood stress, disconnection, and the root causes of modern disease. Jeff shares how he reversed his diabetes, lost 60 pounds, and found a deeper life purpose through ritual, food, breath, movement, and community. Together, they unpack what it means to live a conscious life in a profit-driven world—and why connection, storytelling, and stillness might be the most powerful forms of medicine we have left.

 

 

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• 00:00 – Introduction: Why Jeff’s journey matters

• 03:20 – Jeff’s wake-up call: Reversing diabetes and losing 60 pounds

• 08:14 – What “Commune” really means and why it’s more than a platform

• 13:45 – The biology of stress and how “good stress” heals you

• 18:21 – Why the body needs challenge—but not chaos

• 24:02 – How capitalism trains us to forget ritual, nature, and presence

• 29:17 – Food, breath, movement, and storytelling as modern medicine

• 35:41 – Loneliness is the new inflammation: the social health crisis

• 42:03 – Raising kids in a distracted world and building community offline

• 47:29 – How writing “Commusings” changed Jeff’s biology

• 53:22 – The science of storytelling: what it does to your nervous system

• 58:17 – How the body listens when you live your truth

• 1:03:44 – The intersection of health, spirit, economy, and purpose

• 1:08:12 – Can capitalism and wellness co-exist? A deep dive

• 1:13:29 – Why Jeff believes “aging in reverse” is possible

• 1:17:08 – The future of community: from digital back to sacred

• 1:23:56 – What Jeff wants everyone to know about being human

• 1:27:45 – Final thoughts and closing reflections from Darin and Jeff

 

 

Don’t Forget...

I just launched my brand new program Superlife Supermind. Visit my website https://superlife.com/ to learn more about how you can get rid of stress, improve sleep and overall health today.

 

 

Thank You to Our Sponsors:

• Therasage: Go to www.therasage.com and use code DARIN at checkout for 15% off

• Our Place: Toxic-free, durable cookware that supports healthy cooking. Use code DARIN for 10% off at fromourplace.com.

 

 

Find More From Jeff Krasno:

• Website: onecommune.com

• Podcast: Commune with Jeff Krasno

• Newsletter: Commusings

• Instagram: @jeffkrasno

• Book: Good Stress

 

 

Connect with Darin Olien:

• Website: darinolien.com

• Instagram: @darinolien

• Book: Fatal Conveniences

 

 

Key Takeaway:

"We don’t need to eliminate stress—we need to learn how to dance with it." – Jeff Krasno

 

What if the air freshener in your car was more dangerous than the pollution outside?

In this explosive episode, Darin reveals what’s really inside those “harmless” little trees hanging from car mirrors—and why they could be silently damaging your health. Backed by real science and peer-reviewed studies, Darin uncovers the shocking truth about volatile organic compounds (VOCs), the health effects on the brain and lungs, and the corporations that won’t label them. You’ll also learn how to detox your air, reclaim your health, and even start a grassroots movement to get a fragrance-free option in ride shares like Uber and Lyft.

Studies:

1. There’s this study called “Volatile Chemical Emissions from Car Air Fresheners”—and wow. Researchers analyzed 12 popular car fresheners—those trees, clips, sprays, gels—you name it. Here’s what they found: 546 volatile organic compounds. That’s VOCs. Out of those, 30 were considered potentially hazardous—things like formaldehyde, benzene, and other stuff you definitely don’t want marinating your brain. And you know what’s wild?
Not a single one of those hazardous chemicals was listed on the label.
(Steinemann et al., 2020)

2. There’s a study called “Fragranced Consumer Products: Effects on Asthmatics”—and it found that over 64% of people with asthma reported real symptoms from these scented products: wheezing, headaches, even full-on asthma attacks. And 41% said air fresheners were the trigger (Steinemann, 2017).

3. Another one? “Migraine Headaches and Fragranced Consumer Products.” Nearly half of the people who get migraines said air fresheners specifically set them off (Steinemann & Nematollahi, 2020).

4. And if you’re neurodivergent—like folks with autism? This next one breaks my heart.
In the study “Fragranced Consumer Products: Effects on Autistic Adults,” 83.7% of autistic individuals said fragranced products triggered serious neurological and respiratory problems—and 63% said air fresheners were one of the worst offenders (Steinemann, 2018).

5. In a study out of Nigeria, researchers exposed mice to a solid commercial air freshener. After a few weeks, the mice showed increased anxiety, depression-like behavior, memory loss, and signs of oxidative stress in the brain. Their brains were literally under chemical assault.
The study's called “Neurobehavioral Effects of Prolonged Exposure to Solid Air Freshener in Mice.” Check it out—it’s eye-opening (Umukoro et al., 2019).

6. Sorry to tell you… greenwashed products aren’t any better. In the same 2020 study I mentioned earlier, researchers tested “natural” versions too—and found no meaningful difference in the chemicals they released (Steinemann et al., 2020).

 

 

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• 00:00 – Introduction: The truth about air fresheners

• 00:44 – Why Darin refuses to use ride shares with scent trees

• 01:50 – The hidden study on VOCs in popular car air fresheners

• 02:30 – 546 chemicals discovered—30 considered hazardous

• 03:00 – Where is the regulation? Why there are no labels

• 03:55 – Formaldehyde, benzene, and what they do to your body

• 05:00 – The link between asthma, headaches, and fragrances

• 05:45 – 64% of asthmatics report fragrance-triggered symptoms

• 06:25 – What these chemicals do to neurodivergent individuals

• 07:10 – Mice studies: anxiety, memory loss, oxidative stress

• 08:40 – Ubers, Lyfts, and chronic chemical exposure

• 09:15 – “Greenwashed” products are just as toxic

• 10:00 – No regulation, no labeling: the wild west of scent marketing

• 10:50 – A call to action: the Uber/Lyft fragrance-free movement

• 12:02 – How to tag and campaign for safer ride shares

• 13:00 – What you can use instead: baking soda, charcoal, and nature

• 14:40 – Exactly how to ask a driver to remove chemical air fresheners

• 15:41 – Final message: take your air—and your health—back

 

 

Don’t Forget...

I just launched my brand new program Superlife Supermind. Visit my website https://superlife.com/ to learn more about how you can get rid of stress, improve sleep and overall health today.

 

 

Connect with Darin Olien:

• Website: darinolien.com

• Instagram: @darinolien

• Book: Fatal Conveniences

 

Key Takeaway:

"Your car shouldn’t smell like a fake ocean breeze—it should smell like clean, chemical-free life." – Darin Olien

 

 

Bibliography:

1. Steinemann, A., et al. (2020). Volatile chemical emissions from car air fresheners. Link

2. Steinemann, A. (2017). Fragranced consumer products: effects on asthmatics. Link

3. Steinemann, A. (2018). Fragranced consumer products: effects on autistic adults. Link

4. Steinemann, A., & Nematollahi, N. (2020). Migraine headaches and fragranced consumer products. Link

5. Umukoro, S., et al. (2019). Neurobehavioral Effects of Prolonged Exposure to Solid Air Freshener in Mice. Link

What if carbon isn’t the villain—but the key to saving the world?

In this mind-expanding conversation, Darin sits down with renowned environmentalist and visionary Paul Hawken to uncover the misunderstood story of carbon, the intelligence of nature, and how we’ve systematically disconnected from the wisdom that sustains life. This episode dives deep into climate, ancient knowledge, modern science, and what it means to truly regenerate the Earth—and ourselves.

 

 

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• 00:00 – Why this conversation about carbon is different

• 04:40 – The real reason carbon got villainized—and why it’s wrong

• 08:25 – Why we must "re-carbonize" the Earth, not decarbonize it

• 11:00 – The incredible intelligence of carbon and why it is life

• 13:40 – Indigenous wisdom and Western science—why we need both

• 17:30 – Why naming and separating things leads us away from truth

• 20:05 – Climate isn’t a crisis—it’s a mirror of the biosphere

• 23:00 – The human disconnection that’s destroying the planet

• 26:00 – We are the only species deregulating the climate

• 29:00 – Turning nature into an "asset class": the new danger

• 31:00 – Google, Meta, and the new extractive industry

• 33:30 – How our data addiction is connected to climate destruction

• 35:00 – The fungal internet: mycelia, intelligence, and nutrient trade

• 38:40 – How 14 million roots on a single rye plant feed the Earth

• 42:00 – Sound of soil: how healthy ecosystems literally speak

• 45:00 – Dead soil and the silence that follows chemical farming

• 47:00 – Fire as a regenerative force—not a destroyer

• 50:10 – Wildflowers, seed banks, and the secrets beneath the ash

• 53:10 – Purpose and meaning: the missing nutrients in modern life

• 56:00 – Awe, intelligence, and what soil can teach us about healing

• 59:10 – Why we’re not just disconnected—we’re spiritually lost

• 1:02:00 – Fossil fuels, energy addiction, and burning life

• 1:04:40 – How less can actually give us more

• 1:06:00 – Why the healthcare system is a symptom of sick soil

• 1:08:00 – From crisis to community: choosing regeneration

• 1:10:10 – Why abundance comes from creating life

• 1:13:00 – Fire ecology and Indigenous land management wisdom

• 1:16:00 – Final thoughts: we’re not screwed—we’re screwing ourselves

 

Don’t Forget...

I just launched my brand new program Superlife Supermind. Visit my website https://superlife.com/ to learn more about how you can get rid of stress, improve sleep and overall health today.

 

Thank You to Our Sponsors:

• Bite Toothpaste: Go to trybite.com/DARIN20 or use code DARIN20 for 20% off your first order.

• Fatty15: Get an additional 15% off their 90-day subscription Starter Kit by going to fatty15.com/DARIN and using code DARIN at checkout.

 

 

Find More From Paul Hawken:

• Website: paulhawken.com

• Instagram: @paul.hawken

• Book: Regeneration: Ending the Climate Crisis in One Generation

• Organization: regeneration.org

 

 

Connect with Darin Olien:

• Website: darinolien.com

• Instagram: @darinolien

• Book: Fatal Conveniences

 

 

Key Takeaway:

"We don’t need to decarbonize the world—we need to re-carbonize the Earth through life." – Paul Hawken

What if the sun—the very thing we’ve been told to fear—is actually your body’s most essential nutrient?

In this myth-busting solo episode, Darin dives into the science, history, and healing power of sunlight. From ancient heliotherapy to modern vitamin D research, Darin breaks down how we've been sold fear about the sun while living under flickering blue lights that are quietly damaging our bodies. You'll discover the surprising truth about sun exposure, the dangers of sunscreen and sunglasses, and how to safely reconnect with the light your biology depends on.

 

 

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• 00:00 – Why this isn’t just about sunlight—it’s about truth, biology, and reclaiming rhythm

• 00:03:14 – The history of heliotherapy and how sunlight used to be medicine

• 00:04:22 – The Nobel Prize-winning light therapy that healed disease in the 1900s

• 00:05:46 – How we became afraid of sunlight—and what really caused the rise in skin cancer

• 00:07:11 – Modern lifestyle vs. natural light: the real root of our chronic disease

• 00:08:37 – Vitamin D, cancer, and sunlight’s forgotten power

• 00:09:46 – What your circadian rhythm, mitochondria, and hormones need from the sun

• 00:14:11 – How sunglasses and sunscreen may be hurting more than helping

• 00:16:03 – The difference between sunburn and safe exposure (and the real melanoma science)

• 00:17:52 – Studies show moderate sun exposure reduces mortality—here’s how

• 00:21:22 – How to gradually build tolerance and reconnect with natural light safely

• 00:22:47 – Fear of the sun vs. biology’s need for it—why you’re not fragile

• 00:23:28 – What you eat affects how your skin responds to sunlight

• 00:24:02 – Superfoods for skin protection: chaga, cacao, spirulina, berries & more

• 00:25:52 – The real sun protocol: light, food, melanin, hydration, and common sense

• 00:26:54 – Ditch junk light: how to filter screens and restore healthy signals

• 00:28:05 – Fueling the skin: water, polyphenols, mushrooms, and mineral-rich foods

• 00:29:04 – Final truth: you were built for the sun, not for screens

 

 

Thank You to Our Sponsors:

• Our Place: Toxic-free, durable cookware that supports healthy cooking. Use code DARIN for 10% off at fromourplace.com.

• Shakeology-All in One Nutrition: Get 15% off with code SUPERLIFE at Shakeology.com

 

 

Follow Darin Olien:

• Website: darinolien.com

• Instagram: @darinolien

• Book: Fatal Conveniences

 

 

Key Takeaway:

"We weren’t designed to live in the dark. The sun is not our enemy—it’s the original medicine our biology was built for." – Darin Olien

What if your immune system, not your genetics, is the key to unlocking longevity and vitality?

In this powerful episode, Darin sits down with the legendary Dr. Jeffrey Bland, the father of functional medicine, to explore how environmental toxins, ultra-processed foods, and chronic inflammation are silently robbing us of our health—and what we can actually do about it. From angry fat to immuno-rejuvenation, this episode reveals the science and solutions behind healing from the inside out.

 

 

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• (00:00:00) Opening – Why functional medicine matters more than ever

• (00:04:44) A legal war against toxic corporations & the real cost of chemical exposure

• (00:06:09) What functional medicine actually means—explained by its founder

• (00:08:00) The 4 core pillars of health: physical, metabolic, cognitive, and spiritual

• (00:09:17) 300,000+ chemicals: how environmental signals hijack your genes

• (00:10:34) Why chronic exposure to everyday toxins is worse than we think

• (00:12:00) Neurotoxicology & immunotoxicology: the hidden fields shaping your future

• (00:13:00) How low-level chemical exposure impacts mood, energy, and brain clarity

• (00:14:56) Scaling solutions: where we start, and why Himalayan buckwheat matters

• (00:17:23) New study: reversing immune aging by 47% in 90 days with food

• (00:20:37) Why nature’s orchestration is more powerful than any isolated nutrient

• (00:22:20) Bitter foods, GLP-1, and the natural way to stimulate weight loss

• (00:27:23) Adaptogens explained: how plants adapt to stress—and help you do the same

• (00:31:19) The danger of long-term GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic: what we don’t know yet

• (00:34:07) Angry fat vs. friendly fat—how inflammation starts in your gut and spreads

• (00:40:01) Santa Claus vs. Mars: the science of fat as a signaling organ

• (00:41:18) The Pima vs. Tarahumara paradox: genetics, food, and diabetes

• (00:44:32) The 70% processed food problem: how we’re feeding chronic disease

• (00:46:14) Are we floating off the planet? A metaphor for today’s health crisis

• (00:48:13) Changing the economic system through farming, soil health & food quality

• (00:52:04) What ancient crops like Himalayan buckwheat can teach us about immunity

• (00:56:00) Why paying farmers fairly can actually reverse public health decline

• (01:00:01) Agrochemicals, glyphosate, and the broken agricultural model

• (01:02:27) How do we scale food as medicine? Practical steps to reboot the system

• (01:05:24) Why we must shift from quantity to quality in food and farming

• (01:07:28) Are we growing potatoes from oil? Redefining sustainability

• (01:10:01) What gives Dr. Bland hope—and how the next generation is already leading

 

 

Thank You to Our Sponsors:

• Therasage: Go to www.therasage.com and use code DARIN at checkout for 15% off

• Bite Toothpaste: Go to trybite.com/DARIN20 or use code DARIN20 for 20% off your first order.

• Our Place: Toxic-free, durable cookware that supports healthy cooking. Use code DARIN for 10% off at fromourplace.com.

 

Find More From Dr. Jeffrey Bland:

• Website: jeffreybland.com

• Instagram: @drjeffreybland

• Book: The Disease Delusion

• Organization: Big Bold Health

 

 

Follow Darin Olien:

• Website: darinolien.com

• Instagram: @darinolien

• Book: Fatal Conveniences

 

 

Key Takeaway:

"Our genes are not our destiny—our environment, our food, and our choices are the true architects of health." – Dr. Jeffrey Bland

What if the one thing you're avoiding—total honesty—is the thing that could free you?

In this powerful solo episode of The Darin Olien Show, Darin explores the transformative power of radical honesty and emotional vulnerability. Backed by science and personal experience, Darin unpacks how embracing your truth—without filters, without fear—can change your relationships, your mindset, and your life.

This episode is a roadmap to deeper connection, personal strength, and emotional freedom in a world that rewards suppression and surface-level living.

 

 

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• (00:00:00) Introduction – Why radical honesty might be the key to your Super Life

• (00:02:15) What is radical honesty? – And how it leads to less stress and deeper meaning

• (00:03:12) Vulnerability as strength – How opening up makes you stronger, not weaker

• (00:04:00) The science behind truth-telling – Studies on trust, intimacy & psychological well-being

• (00:05:30) Why we avoid the truth – Conflict, discomfort, and the lies we tell ourselves

• (00:06:44) Honesty in intimate relationships – The cost of surface-level connection

• (00:08:00) Why men especially need spaces to be honest – And how Darin found his

• (00:10:07) When honesty becomes leadership – Building teams, missions, and movements with truth

• (00:12:30) Vulnerability in practice – How to speak your truth without expectation

• (00:14:26) A personal story – How betrayal sparked Darin’s greatest growth

• (00:17:01) The power of living your truth – And how it attracts the right people

• (00:18:15) The muscle of resilience – Built by radical honesty and vulnerability

• (00:19:04) Why people resist it – Fear of rejection and cultural suppression

• (00:20:49) Strength ≠ suppression – The damaging myth of toughness, especially for men

• (00:22:00) Passive aggression vs. real truth – What families and social groups get wrong

• (00:23:01) How to practice honesty – Start small and build emotional fluency

• (00:24:44) Real results – Better relationships, lower stress, higher integrity

• (00:25:31) Final thoughts – Why radical honesty is a superpower you can choose today

 

 

Don’t Forget...

I just launched my brand new program Superlife Supermind. Visit my website https://superlife.com/ to learn more about how you can get rid of stress, improve sleep and overall health today.

 

  Thank You to Our Sponsors:

• Therasage: Go to www.therasage.com and use code DARIN at checkout for 15% off

• Fatty15: Get an additional 15% off their 90-day subscription Starter Kit by going to fatty15.com/DARIN and using code DARIN at checkout.

 

Follow Darin Olien:

• Website: darinolien.com

• Instagram: @darinolien

• Book: Fatal Conveniences

 

Key Takeaway:

"Radical honesty isn’t about confrontation—it’s about liberation. It’s the single greatest skill to build a life of depth, resilience, and purpose." – Darin Olien

 

What if everything we thought we knew about fat is wrong—and one molecule could change how we age, heal, and live?

In this cutting-edge episode of SuperLife with Darin Olien, Darin is joined by Dr. Stephanie Venn-Watson, a veterinary epidemiologist, former Navy scientist, and co-founder of Fatty15. Together, they unpack the discovery of C15:0, the first essential fatty acid identified in 90 years, and the tidal wave of science supporting its impact on longevity, inflammation, metabolic health, and cellular survival.

From accidental dolphin data to peer-reviewed clinical trials, Dr. Steph reveals how C15 could become one of the most important health breakthroughs of our time.

 

 

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• (00:00:00) Introduction – What today’s episode is all about

• (00:04:15) Meet Dr. Stephanie Venn-Watson – Her origin story and the accidental discovery of C15

• (00:07:45) What is C15 and how is it different from omega-3s and saturated fats?

• (00:12:02) Why the USDA once told us to avoid fats—and how that caused unintended harm

• (00:16:30) The Navy’s dolphin program & the surprising longevity connection

• (00:20:12) The essential fatty acid problem – Why C15 is needed in modern diets

• (00:24:45) C15 and inflammation – How this fat helps regulate immune response

• (00:29:40) What clinical trials are showing – Type 2 diabetes, liver disease, and more

• (00:34:01) Why our food system lost C15 – Industrial changes to dairy and livestock

• (00:38:25) The mitochondria connection – How C15 supports energy and cellular repair

• (00:43:10) Ferroptosis and cellular death – The antioxidant role of C15

• (00:47:50) What “essential” really means – Revisiting the 1930s nutrient criteria

• (00:52:15) Real-world use cases: pets, children, elders, and chronic illness

• (00:56:40) Gut microbiome and metabolic syndrome – The C15 balancing effect

• (01:00:55) Saturated fat confusion – Not all fats are created equal

• (01:05:00) The science of “good fat” – What makes C15 fundamentally different

• (01:09:45) Global research momentum – Who’s funding and validating the studies

• (01:14:05) The future of C15 in agriculture, food, and longevity medicine

• (01:18:45) What Dr. Steph wishes every doctor and nutritionist knew

• (01:22:35) Practical ways to start – How to safely integrate C15 into your life

• (01:28:10) Final thoughts – What happens when we redefine “essential”

 

 

Topics Covered:

• Discovery of C15:0

• Essential fatty acids

• Dolphin research & human longevity

• Chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, liver disease

• Cellular death & ferroptosis

• Gut microbiome & metabolism

• Mitochondrial repair & oxidative stress

• Nutritional science and real-world application

 

Don’t Forget...

I just launched my brand new program Superlife Supermind. Visit my website https://superlife.com/ to learn more about how you can get rid of stress, improve sleep and overall health today.

 

 

Thank You to Our Sponsors:

• Bite Toothpaste: Go to trybite.com/DARIN20 or use code DARIN20 for 20% off your first order.

• Shakeology-All in One Nutrition: Get 15% off with code SUPERLIFE at Shakeology.com

 

 

Find More From Dr. Stephanie Venn-Watson:

• Website: fatty15.com

• Instagram: @fatty15

• Book: The Longevity Nutrient (available now)

 

Find More From Darin:

• Website: darinolien.com

• Instagram: @darinolien

• Book: Fatal Conveniences

 

 

Key Takeaway:

"C15 isn’t just a supplement—it’s a paradigm shift in what we define as essential nutrition." – Dr. Stephanie Venn-Watson

 

Your house should be your safe space. But what if it’s the source of your symptoms?

In this solo episode of Super Life, Darin Olien uncovers the hidden poisons lurking inside your home—from cookware and furniture to cleaning products and carpets. Darin breaks down the scientific research behind common toxins like PFAS, phthalates, formaldehyde, and flame retardants, and shows you how these “fatal conveniences” may be silently disrupting your hormones, damaging your gut, and weakening your immune system.

You’ll walk away from this episode with practical, easy-to-implement solutions that will help you detox your environment and build a home that supports vitality, longevity, and true wellness.

 

1. Formaldehyde in Your Home: The Silent Threat

Formaldehyde is a common indoor air pollutant found in engineered wood products, cabinetry, moldings, countertops, and furniture. It is classified as a carcinogen by the World Health Organization and has been linked to respiratory issues, asthma, and even leukemia (Zhang et al., 2020).

How to Reduce Formaldehyde Exposure: 

• Opt for solid wood furniture instead of pressed wood. 

• Use low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints and finishes. 

• Keep your home well-ventilated with HEPA air purifiers. 

 

2. The Hidden Dangers of PFAS (Forever Chemicals)

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are found in non-stick cookware, stain-resistant fabrics, waterproof clothing, and even drinking water. Studies show these chemicals accumulate in the body and are linked to cancer, hormonal imbalances, immune system suppression, and reproductive toxicity (DeWitt et al., 2019).

How to Reduce PFAS Exposure: 

• Switch to cast iron or stainless steel cookware. 

• Avoid stain-resistant treatments on carpets and furniture. 

• Use water filters certified to remove PFAS. 

 

3. Plastics: More Than Just an Environmental Issue

Plastics release harmful chemicals like BPA (bisphenol A) and phthalates, which disrupt the endocrine system, leading to infertility, metabolic disorders, and even neurological issues (Talsness et al., 2009).

 How to Reduce Plastic Exposure: 

• Use glass or stainless steel containers. 

• Avoid microwaving food in plastic. 

• Choose BPA-free household products. 

 

4. Carpets: A Reservoir of Toxins and Allergens

Carpets harbor SVOCs (semi-volatile organic compounds), flame retardants, and pesticides, making them a major source of indoor air pollution and allergens. Children and pets are particularly vulnerable (Cao et al., 2017).

How to Reduce Carpet-Related Risks: 

• Choose natural fiber rugs like wool or cotton. 

• Regularly clean with a HEPA vacuum. 

• Use non-toxic carpet cleaners. 

 

5. Fragrances: The Airborne Toxins in Your Home

Synthetic fragrances found in air fresheners, candles, cleaning products, and perfumes contain phthalates and VOCs that are linked to respiratory issues, migraines, and hormone disruption (Steinemann, 2018).

 How to Detox Your Home’s Air: 

• Use essential oil diffusers instead of synthetic air fresheners. 

• Choose fragrance-free cleaning products. 

• Improve indoor air quality with houseplants like peace lilies and spider plants. 

 

SuperLife Home Detox: Steps to Create a Healthy Living Space

• Switch to Non-Toxic Cleaning Products – Avoid harsh chemicals; opt for vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils.

•  Improve Ventilation – Open windows daily and use HEPA air filters. 

• Filter Your Water – Invest in a high-quality water filtration system to remove PFAS, chlorine, and heavy metals. 

• Avoid Toxic Furniture and Decor – Choose organic bedding, non-toxic paint, and untreated wood furniture. 

• Ditch the Plastics – Use glass, stainless steel, or silicone alternatives for food storage and cookware. 

• Go Green with Personal Care Products – Check labels for parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances.  

Conclusion

The reality is, our homes can be filled with hidden toxins that impact our health in ways we don’t even realize. But the good news? We have the power to change that.

By making small, intentional choices—like choosing cleaner products, improving ventilation, and ditching harmful plastics—you can create a SuperLife-approved home that truly supports your well-being.

Have you taken steps to detox your home? Share your experience with us on social media @DarinOlien, and let’s keep this conversation going! Stay tuned for more episodes to help you live a SuperLife.

 

 

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• (00:00:00) Introduction – Welcome to Super Life and the surprising truth about toxic homes

• (00:03:08) Is Your House Poisoning You? – An eye-opening look at invisible toxins in your space

• (00:04:38) Formaldehyde in Your Furniture – Linked to asthma, leukemia, and chronic inflammation

• (00:06:10) Mold in Modern Homes – Why most homes are mold traps (and how to test for it)

• (00:07:22) How to Reduce Formaldehyde Exposure – Go solid wood, support local artisans, avoid pressboard

• (00:09:32) VOCs, Paints & Finishes – What to avoid and how to seal furniture safely

• (00:10:52) PFAS in Everyday Items – “Forever chemicals” in cookware, fabrics, and drinking water

• (00:12:11) The Real Risks of PFAS – Cancer, hormone imbalance, immune suppression & more

• (00:13:12) What to Buy Instead – Titanium pans, stainless steel, and safe fabrics

• (00:15:23) Plastics & Food – Why your cutting boards, containers, and Tupperware are a problem

• (00:16:40) Don’t Microwave Plastic – BPA, phthalates, and how they affect fertility & metabolism

• (00:17:38) The Truth About Carpets – Reservoirs for allergens, VOCs, pesticides & flame retardants

• (00:18:56) Safe Alternatives for Carpets – Organic fibers, plant-based dyes, and HEPA-filter vacuums

• (00:19:25) The Hidden Dangers of Fragrance – How perfumes and air fresheners disrupt your hormones

• (00:20:58) Detox Your Air – The best plants, diffusers, and DIY solutions for clean indoor air

• (00:22:02) Reclaiming Your Environment – Easy changes that make a huge difference

• (00:23:06) Natural Laundry Hacks – Vinegar, borax, and lemon: cheap and powerful

• (00:24:00) Final Thoughts – You have the power to detox your home and change your life

Key Resources Mentioned:

• Our Place: Toxic-free, durable cookware that supports healthy cooking. Use code DARIN for 10% off at fromourplace.com.

• Therasage: Go to www.therasage.com and use code DARIN at checkout for 15% off

Find More from Darin:

• Instagram: @darinolien

• Website: darinolien.com

• Book: Fatal Conveniences

  Key Takeaway:

"You can’t build health on a toxic foundation. Start with your home—it’s the easiest place to take back control."

 

 

Bibliography:

• Cao, Z. et al. (2017). Carpet: Accomplice in Children's Exposure to Toxic SVOCs Indoors. 

• DeWitt, J. et al. (2019). Potential Health Effects of Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS). 

• Steinemann, A. (2018). Exposures and Effects from Fragranced Consumer Products. 

• Zhang, W. et al. (2020). Exposure to Formaldehyde in the Indoor Environment and Its Impact on Health. 

• Talsness, C. et al. (2009). Endocrine Disruptors from Plastics and Health Risks.