

Hart2Heart with Dr. Mike Hart
Dr. Mike Hart
Hart2Heart is the show where Dr. Mike Hart breaks down evidence-based health, longevity, performance, and modern medicine without the fluff.
Each episode explores practical, evidence-based strategies for improving your life, including hormone health, peptides, sleep optimization, nutrition, supplements, exercise, sunlight, psychedelics, and smarter medication use. The goal is simple: help you understand what actually works so you can make better decisions for your health.
The show also looks at the bigger picture, including how public health policy and politics influence personal well-being, and what you can do to take back control.
If you want clear, actionable, no-BS conversations about living healthier, performing better, and thinking for yourself, this podcast is for you.
Each episode explores practical, evidence-based strategies for improving your life, including hormone health, peptides, sleep optimization, nutrition, supplements, exercise, sunlight, psychedelics, and smarter medication use. The goal is simple: help you understand what actually works so you can make better decisions for your health.
The show also looks at the bigger picture, including how public health policy and politics influence personal well-being, and what you can do to take back control.
If you want clear, actionable, no-BS conversations about living healthier, performing better, and thinking for yourself, this podcast is for you.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 13, 2025 • 1h 2min
#200 Rethinking LDL and Longevity with Greg Mushen
In this episode of the Heart to Heart Podcast, Dr. Mike Hart sits down with Greg Mushen, a former tech professional turned health advocate, to discuss his incredible journey of transforming his body and lifestyle. Greg shares insights from his background growing up in a medical family and how early exposure to health experiments sparked his long-lasting interest in nutrition and fitness. He details his significant body transformation starting at age 47, the role of tracking macros and engaging in strength training, and the importance of key habits like walking 17,000 steps a day. The conversation also delves into the use of red light therapy, the science behind resistant starches, and maintaining a balanced routine without becoming overly dependent on health gadgets. Greg's shift from a tech-centric life to a health-focused one offers valuable lessons on maintaining physical and mental wellness. Greg Mushen is a tech veteran turned health optimizer, fitness coach, and writer whose work explores the science of sustainable transformation, metabolic health, and longevity. After a two-decade career in technology, Greg redirected his analytical mindset toward understanding how data-driven habits and consistent routines can radically improve health and well-being. Connect with him on LinkedIn at @GregMushen. Links: InBody Scale Andrew Huberman, PhD Jocko Willink Lane Norton Show Notes: 00:00 Welcome back to the Hart2Heart podcast with Dr. Mike Hart 01:00 Greg's early interest in health 02:30 The turning point: realizing the need for change 03:30 Greg's transformation and Twitter journey 04:30 Key strategies for transformation 08:00 The importance of walking and daily steps 10:00 Sustaining the transformation: tools and tips 14:23 "At first, tracking my food felt like a second job. But after six weeks, it became automatic—it stopped being effort and started being just who I am." 18:30 Mindset shifts and progress tracking 22:30 The role of LDL in health 27:00 Calories in, calories out debate 30:00 Accurate weight prediction and metabolic studies 31:00 Challenges of calorie tracking and satiation 32:00 Dr. Ted Naman's approach to calorie tracking 33:00 Impact of drinking calories and fiber intake 35:00 Complex carbs and resistant starch 41:00 Benefits of red light therapy 45:30 Nicotine use and addiction 49:00 Tech background and health experimentation 53:30 Future health technologies and personal insights — The Hart2Heart podcast is hosted by family physician Dr. Michael Hart, who is dedicated to cutting through the noise and uncovering the most effective strategies for optimizing health, longevity, and peak performance. This podcast dives deep into evidence-based approaches to hormone balance, peptides, sleep optimization, nutrition, psychedelics, supplements, exercise protocols, leveraging sunlight light, and de-prescribing pharmaceuticals—using medications only when absolutely necessary. Beyond health science, we tackle the intersection of public health and politics, exposing how Policy decisions shape our health landscape and what actionable steps people can take to reclaim control over their well-being. Guests range from out-of-the-box thinking physicians such as Dr. Casey Means (author of "Good Energy") and Dr. Roger Sehult (Medcram lectures) to public health experts such as Dr. Jay Bhattacharya (Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Dr. Marty Mckary (Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and high-profile names such as Zuby and Mark Sisson (Primal Blueprint and Primal Kitchen). If you're ready to take control of your health and performance, this is the podcast for you. We cut through the jargon and deliver practical, no-BS advice that you can implement in your daily life, empowering you to make positive changes for your well-being. Connect on social with Dr. Mike Hart: Instagram: @drmikehart Twitter: @drmikehart Facebook: @drmikehart

Nov 6, 2025 • 55min
#199 How to Train Like a Pro Fighter with Dr. Corey Peacock
In this episode of the Heart to Heart podcast, Dr. Mike Hart interviews Dr. Corey Peacock, an exercise physiologist and department chair at Nova Southeastern University. Dr. Peacock discusses his diverse background, from establishing the Fight Science Laboratory to working with elite MMA fighters at Kill Cliff Fight Club. The conversation covers advanced training methods, including zone-based cardio, strength and conditioning exercises, and recovery protocols. Listeners gain insights into the importance of athletic balance, the role of power versus strength in MMA, and the efficacy of various recovery tools such as cold plunges, sauna, and red light therapy. Dr. Peacock emphasizes the tailored approach needed for different fighters and the benefits of continually evolving training strategies. Dr. Corey Peacock is an exercise physiologist, sports scientist, and performance coach who bridges academic research with elite MMA training. He holds a Ph.D. in Exercise Physiology from Kent State University and serves as Department Chair of Health and Human Performance at Nova Southeastern University, where he co-founded the Fight Science Lab. As Director of Athlete Performance for Kill Cliff Fight Club, Dr. Peacock helps world-class fighters optimize strength, endurance, and recovery through science-driven performance methods. Connect with him on Instagram @drcpeacock and LinkedIn. Links: American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) Kill Cliff Fight Club (formerly Blackzilians and Sanford MMA) Dr. José Antonio – Co-founder of Fight Science Lab Norwegian 4x4 Interval Method Show Notes: 00:00 Welcome back to the Hart2Heart podcast with Dr. Mike Hart 00:47 Dr. Corey Peacock's Background 02:52 Cardio Training for MMA Fighters 17:41 Strength and Conditioning Essentials 30:35 Reverse Hypers and Posterior Chain Training 34:17 Balancing Strength and Power in MMA 36:44 Training Insights from Anthony Rumble Johnson 42:42 The Role of HRV in Training Adjustments 47:13 Recovery Tools: Cold Plunges, Sauna, and Red Light Therapy 52:57 Upcoming Events and Contact Information — The Hart2Heart podcast is hosted by family physician Dr. Michael Hart, who is dedicated to cutting through the noise and uncovering the most effective strategies for optimizing health, longevity, and peak performance. This podcast dives deep into evidence-based approaches to hormone balance, peptides, sleep optimization, nutrition, psychedelics, supplements, exercise protocols, leveraging sunlight light, and de-prescribing pharmaceuticals—using medications only when absolutely necessary. Beyond health science, we tackle the intersection of public health and politics, exposing how Policy decisions shape our health landscape and what actionable steps people can take to reclaim control over their well-being. Guests range from out-of-the-box thinking physicians such as Dr. Casey Means (author of "Good Energy") and Dr. Roger Sehult (Medcram lectures) to public health experts such as Dr. Jay Bhattacharya (Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Dr. Marty Mckary (Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and high-profile names such as Zuby and Mark Sisson (Primal Blueprint and Primal Kitchen). If you're ready to take control of your health and performance, this is the podcast for you. We cut through the jargon and deliver practical, no-BS advice that you can implement in your daily life, empowering you to make positive changes for your well-being. Connect on social with Dr. Mike Hart: Instagram: @drmikehart Twitter: @drmikehart Facebook: @drmikehart

Oct 30, 2025 • 33min
#198 How to Reverse Insulin Resistance
In this solo podcast episode, Dr. Mike Hart delves into the intricacies of insulin resistance, a prevalent yet misunderstood condition. The episode covers the fundamental role of insulin, what happens during insulin resistance, and its linkage to various diseases like diabetes and heart disease. It includes a detailed discussion on how to measure insulin resistance using markers like triglyceride to HDL ratio, fasting insulin, fasting glucose, and hemoglobin A1c. Dr. Hart also explains the significance of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and how they contribute to aging and diabetes. Practical tips on improving insulin sensitivity through diet, exercise, and supplements such as fiber, mulberry leaf extract, and berberine are provided. Additional considerations for managing blood sugar levels and preventing insulin resistance are also discussed. Links: Fasting Insulin Test: https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/insulin-in-blood/ Fructosamine Test: https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/insulin-in-blood/ Carnosine: https://examine.com/supplements/carnosine/?show_conditions=true P5P (Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate): https://examine.com/supplements/vitamin-b6/?show_conditions=true Show Notes: 00:00 Welcome back to the Hart2Heart Podcast with Dr. Mike Hart 00:56 Understanding Insulin and Insulin Resistance 03:02 Markers and Tests for Insulin Resistance 11:30 Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs) 14:16 Exercise and Insulin Sensitivity 14:53 "Exercise keeps your body insulin sensitive for up to 48 hours — not just two." 16:21 Nutritional Strategies for Blood Sugar Control 20:59 Supplements and Medications for Blood Sugar Management — The Hart2Heart podcast is hosted by family physician Dr. Michael Hart, who is dedicated to cutting through the noise and uncovering the most effective strategies for optimizing health, longevity, and peak performance. This podcast dives deep into evidence-based approaches to hormone balance, peptides, sleep optimization, nutrition, psychedelics, supplements, exercise protocols, leveraging sunlight light, and de-prescribing pharmaceuticals—using medications only when absolutely necessary. Beyond health science, we tackle the intersection of public health and politics, exposing how policy decisions shape our health landscape and what actionable steps people can take to reclaim control over their well-being. Guests range from out-of-the-box thinking physicians such as Dr. Casey Means (author of "Good Energy") and Dr. Roger Sehult (Medcram lectures) to public health experts such as Dr. Jay Bhattacharya (Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Dr. Marty Mckary (Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and high-profile names such as Zuby and Mark Sisson (Primal Blueprint and Primal Kitchen). If you're ready to take control of your health and performance, this is the podcast for you. We cut through the jargon and deliver practical, no-BS advice that you can implement in your daily life, empowering you to make positive changes for your well-being. Connect on social with Dr. Mike Hart: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmikehart/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/drmikehart Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MikeHartEPS/

Oct 23, 2025 • 1h 11min
#197 Why Your Brain Needs Friends with Dr. Ben Rein
In this episode, host Dr. Mike Hart welcomes neuroscientist and author Dr. Ben Rein to discuss his new book, 'Why Brains Need Friends: The Neuroscience of Social Connection.' Dr. Rein shares his journey in neuroscience, his research on autism and MDMA, and his pivot towards science communication. They delve into the devastating effects of loneliness, comparing its impact on mortality to smoking 15 cigarettes a day, and explore why human connections are critical for our brain health. Dr. Rein also discusses the benefits of having pets, the intricate balance of social interactions across a lifespan, the effects of MDMA on feelings of connection, and the role of oxytocin in social bonding. This episode provides a deep dive into the science behind social interactions, offering actionable insights to improve mental health and wellbeing. Dr. Ben Rein is a neuroscientist, educator, and science communicator whose work explores the biology of human connection, empathy, and social behavior. With a Ph.D. in neuroscience and postdoctoral research at Stanford University, Dr. Rein has studied everything from the neural underpinnings of autism spectrum disorder to how MDMA (ecstasy) enhances empathy in the brain. Follow his work at mindscience.org or connect with him on Instagram. Links: Oxytocin ("the love hormone") Loneliness and mortality studies Stanford University Lion's Mane Show Notes: 00:00 Welcome back to the Hart2Heart podcast with Dr. Mike Hart 00:30 Dr. Ben Rein's background and new book 02:30 The loneliness epidemic and its effects 04:00 The science behind social interaction 04:15 " Being isolated is worse for you or as bad for you as smoking 15 cigarettes a day." 10:30 Extroversion vs. introversion: social needs 24:00 Oxytocin: the love hormone 33:00 Teamwork and social bonds 36:30 The power of tribalism in sports 38:00 Romantic relationships and health 42:00 The impact of loneliness across a lifetime 49:00 Social media and loneliness 01:02:00 The therapeutic potential of MDMA — The Hart2Heart podcast is hosted by family physician Dr. Michael Hart, who is dedicated to cutting through the noise and uncovering the most effective strategies for optimizing health, longevity, and peak performance. This podcast dives deep into evidence-based approaches to hormone balance, peptides, sleep optimization, nutrition, psychedelics, supplements, exercise protocols, leveraging sunlight light, and de-prescribing pharmaceuticals—using medications only when absolutely necessary. Beyond health science, we tackle the intersection of public health and politics, exposing how Policy decisions shape our health landscape and what actionable steps people can take to reclaim control over their well-being. Guests range from out-of-the-box thinking physicians such as Dr. Casey Means (author of "Good Energy") and Dr. Roger Sehult (Medcram lectures) to public health experts such as Dr. Jay Bhattacharya (Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Dr. Marty Mckary (Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and high-profile names such as Zuby and Mark Sisson (Primal Blueprint and Primal Kitchen). If you're ready to take control of your health and performance, this is the podcast for you. We cut through the jargon and deliver practical, no-BS advice that you can implement in your daily life, empowering you to make positive changes for your well-being. Connect on social with Dr. Mike Hart: Instagram: @drmikehart Twitter: @drmikehart Facebook: @drmikehart

Oct 16, 2025 • 45min
#196 Rethinking Protein and Recovery with Dr. Jose Antonio
In this episode of the Heart to Heart podcast, Dr. Mike Hart chats with Dr. Jose Antonio about the evolution and impact of sports nutrition research, particularly focusing on creatine and protein consumption. Dr. Antonio shares his journey from studying muscle physiology to pioneering research in sports nutrition, highlighting the initial skepticism in the scientific community and the eventual acceptance of supplements like creatine. They also delve into the benefits of various supplements for athletic performance, the ongoing debates in the medical field regarding supplementation, and exciting upcoming research on creatine's effects on eye muscle performance in athletes. Links: University of Central Florida – Dr. Jeff Stout University of Regina – Dr. Darren Candow (Creatine researcher) Protein Intake & High-Protein Diets Caffeine + L-Theanine Combination Show Notes: 00:00 Welcome back to the Hart2Heart Podcast with Dr. Mike Hart 00:00 Introduction and guest welcome 01:00 Dr. Jose Antonio's academic journey 01:30 Challenges in sports nutrition research 04:00 Breakthrough in sports supplements 08:00 The evolution of sports nutrition 13:00 High protein diet studies 14:20 "We had people eating 600 to 800 extra calories of pure protein—and nothing happened. No fat gain. That alone blew people's minds." 17:00 Protein timing and intake 20:30 Impact of hormones on protein absorption 23:00 Testosterone and protein intake 24:00 Peptides and growth hormone 25:00 Protein timing and casein 25:30 Creatine for brain and muscle 42:00 Mitochondrial health and supplements — The Hart2Heart podcast is hosted by family physician Dr. Michael Hart, who is dedicated to cutting through the noise and uncovering the most effective strategies for optimizing health, longevity, and peak performance. This podcast dives deep into evidence-based approaches to hormone balance, peptides, sleep optimization, nutrition, psychedelics, supplements, exercise protocols, leveraging sunlight light, and de-prescribing pharmaceuticals—using medications only when absolutely necessary. Beyond health science, we tackle the intersection of public health and politics, exposing how Policy decisions shape our health landscape and what actionable steps people can take to reclaim control over their well-being. Guests range from out-of-the-box thinking physicians such as Dr. Casey Means (author of "Good Energy") and Dr. Roger Sehult (Medcram lectures) to public health experts such as Dr. Jay Bhattacharya (Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Dr. Marty Mckary (Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and high-profile names such as Zuby and Mark Sisson (Primal Blueprint and Primal Kitchen). If you're ready to take control of your health and performance, this is the podcast for you. We cut through the jargon and deliver practical, no-BS advice that you can implement in your daily life, empowering you to make positive changes for your well-being. Connect on social with Dr. Mike Hart: Instagram: @drmikehart Twitter: @drmikehart Facebook: @drmikehart

Oct 9, 2025 • 1h 16min
#195 How to Eat for Satiety with Dr. Ted Naiman
In this episode of the Heart to Heart podcast, Dr. Mike Hart sits down with Dr. Ted Naiman, a family medicine physician from Seattle with a passion for diet and exercise. They discuss the importance of family physicians in healthcare, Dr. Naiman's personal fitness transformation focusing on a high-protein, low-carb diet, and the significance of satiety over counting calories. Dr. Naiman shares his views on effective exercise routines, optimal macronutrient ratios, and the advantages of front-loading protein. They also delve into insulin resistance, the use of fasting triglycerides as a marker, and the potential of GLP-1 medications for weight loss and insulin sensitivity. This comprehensive discussion provides actionable insights into improving metabolic health and body composition. Dr. Ted Naiman is a family physician, author, and leading voice in evidence-based nutrition and metabolic health. With over two decades of experience in primary care, Dr. Naiman has dedicated his career to helping people understand the science of body composition, satiety, and sustainable weight management. Learn more at tednaiman.com and on LinkedIn. Links: The P:E Diet — by Dr. Ted Naiman Fairlife Milk (ultra-filtered milk) Show Notes: 00:00 Welcome back to the Hart2Heart Podcast with Dr. Mike Hart 00:30 Dr. Ted Naiman's background 01:30 Transformation journey 02:00 Diet and exercise philosophy 03:00 Calorie counting debate 05:30 Macro ratios and protein focus 09:30 Daily meal timing and strategy 13:27 "Front-load your protein. If you start your day with donuts, you'll eat more all day. If you start with protein, you'll automatically eat less." 20:30 Sources of protein 25:00 Carbohydrate choices 29:00 Fat sources and supplementation 34:00 Understanding insulin resistance 37:30 Understanding insulin sensitivity and resistance 39:00 Indicators of insulin resistance: triglycerides and HDL 43:30 The role of fasting insulin and glucose 50:30 Training recommendations: cardio vs. weights 52:30 Effective resistance training strategies 59:30 Visceral fat: causes and reduction strategies 01:05:30 The role of GLP-1 in weight management 01:14:30 Conclusion and final thoughts — The Hart2Heart podcast is hosted by family physician Dr. Michael Hart, who is dedicated to cutting through the noise and uncovering the most effective strategies for optimizing health, longevity, and peak performance. This podcast dives deep into evidence-based approaches to hormone balance, peptides, sleep optimization, nutrition, psychedelics, supplements, exercise protocols, leveraging sunlight light, and de-prescribing pharmaceuticals—using medications only when absolutely necessary. Beyond health science, we tackle the intersection of public health and politics, exposing how Policy decisions shape our health landscape and what actionable steps people can take to reclaim control over their well-being. Guests range from out-of-the-box thinking physicians such as Dr. Casey Means (author of "Good Energy") and Dr. Roger Sehult (Medcram lectures) to public health experts such as Dr. Jay Bhattacharya (Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Dr. Marty Mckary (Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and high-profile names such as Zuby and Mark Sisson (Primal Blueprint and Primal Kitchen). If you're ready to take control of your health and performance, this is the podcast for you. We cut through the jargon and deliver practical, no-BS advice that you can implement in your daily life, empowering you to make positive changes for your well-being. Connect on social with Dr. Mike Hart: Instagram: @drmikehart Twitter: @drmikehart Facebook: @drmikehart

Oct 2, 2025 • 1h 6min
#194 Unraveling Imposter Syndrome and Embracing Transformation Through Storytelling | Featuring Serena Choo
In this episode of the Heart to Heart podcast, host Dr.Mike Hart welcomes author Serena Choo, who delves into her journey of writing and overcoming imposter syndrome. They discuss Serena's second book, 'The Monkey and the Way of Zen,' which contains 28 short Zen-inspired stories aimed at providing readers a relaxing and reflective experience. Choo shares insights into the origins of her work, the importance of letting go and subtracting complexities from life, and how personal transformation can be achieved without the burden of constant goal-setting. Additionally, they touch upon topics such as her career transition, the specifics of dealing with imposter syndrome, the concept of emotional intelligence, and the potential benefits of neurolinguistic programming (NLP). Serena Choo is a transformation coach, author, and thought leader in personal growth and self-discovery. With over two decades of experience spanning corporate finance, executive coaching, and nutritional therapy, Serena has dedicated her career to helping people break free from self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and burnout. She is the author of Letting Go of Imposter Syndrome and The Monkey and the Way of Zen: A Transformation Journey in 28 Short Stories, books that blend practical wisdom with storytelling to inspire reflection, inner peace, and authentic living. Drawing from her background in executive coaching, functional medicine, and NLP, Serena's work emphasizes radical surrender, self-awareness, and creating fulfillment through subtraction rather than constant striving. Learn more about Serena at serenachoo.com Books available on Amazon: Letting Go of Imposter Syndrome and The Monkey and the Way of Zen Links: Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy – Stoicism NLP Association Functional Medicine Coaching Academy Show Notes: 00:00 Welcome back to the Hart2Heart Podcast with Dr. Mike Hart 00:30 Discussing Serena's books 02:00 The inspiration behind 'the monkey and the zen' 02:00 Serena's writing journey 04:30 Finding nemo and storytelling 05:30 The essence of zen stories 06:00 Mike's reflection on reading 07:30 Goal setting and personal fulfillment 08:30 Serena's career background 10:00 Transition to coaching 17:00 Imposter syndrome explained 21:30 Techniques to overcome imposter syndrome 27:30 Changing thought patterns 31:30 The role of fortune and stoicism 33:30 Imposter syndrome and self-doubt 34:00 Personal anecdotes and overcoming challenges 38:00 Accepting compliments and authenticity 48:30 Emotional intelligence and reactions 48:50 "To me, emotional intelligence is first about understanding what's going on within yourself — not pushing away the feelings, but being aware of the programs running underneath." 55:30 Coaching differences between genders 01:00:30 NLP and its benefits — The Hart2Heart podcast is hosted by family physician Dr. Michael Hart, who is dedicated to cutting through the noise and uncovering the most effective strategies for optimizing health, longevity, and peak performance. This podcast dives deep into evidence-based approaches to hormone balance, peptides, sleep optimization, nutrition, psychedelics, supplements, exercise protocols, leveraging sunlight light, and de-prescribing pharmaceuticals—using medications only when absolutely necessary. Beyond health science, we tackle the intersection of public health and politics, exposing how Policy decisions shape our health landscape and what actionable steps people can take to reclaim control over their well-being. Guests range from out-of-the-box thinking physicians such as Dr. Casey Means (author of "Good Energy") and Dr. Roger Sehult (Medcram lectures) to public health experts such as Dr. Jay Bhattacharya (Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Dr. Marty Mckary (Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and high-profile names such as Zuby and Mark Sisson (Primal Blueprint and Primal Kitchen). If you're ready to take control of your health and performance, this is the podcast for you. We cut through the jargon and deliver practical, no-BS advice that you can implement in your daily life, empowering you to make positive changes for your well-being. Connect on social with Dr. Mike Hart: Instagram: @drmikehart Twitter: @drmikehart Facebook: @drmikehart

Sep 25, 2025 • 1h 13min
#193 Debunking Health Myths and Optimizing Nutrition with Alex Leaf
In this episode of The Heart to Heart podcast, host Dr. Mike Hart interviews Alex Leaf, an independent nutritional researcher renowned for debunking nutritional misinformation on social media. The discussion covers topics such as the benefits of collagen for skin health, the potential advantages of ketogenic diets for athletes, and the truth behind various nutrition myths including the effects of soy on testosterone and semen retention. Alex also shares his insights on intermittent fasting, ideal protein intake, and the debate over seed oils. The conversation concludes with their thoughts on cardiovascular health markers and the relevance of particle size in LDL cholesterol. Alex Leaf is an independent nutritional researcher, scientific communicator, and educator specializing in human health and performance. With a decade of experience translating complex science into actionable insights, Alex rose to prominence as a researcher and writer at Examine.com before joining Ari Whitten's Energy Blueprint. His work spans peer-reviewed publications—including contributions to the ISSN position stand on ketogenic diets—and teaching in the Master's program in Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine at the University of Western States. Follow him here: Website: alexleaf.com Instagram: @AlexJLeaf Links: IVF and Abstinence Studies Systematic Review on Ketogenic Diets in Athletes Whey Protein vs. Beef Protein Show Notes: 00:00 – Welcome back to the Hart2Heart Podcast with Dr. Mike Hart 02:30 – Collagen and skin health 08:30 – Ketogenic diets for athletes 14:00 – Protein intake for athletes 18:00 – Intermittent fasting vs caloric restriction 25:00 – Seed oils: myths and facts 30:00 – Semen retention: debunking the myths 35:00 – Soy and hormones 38:30 – Soy consumption and hormonal effects 39:30 – Whey protein: benefits and misconceptions 42:30 – Post-workout nutrition myths 45:00 – Insulin sensitivity and carbohydrate timing 54:00 – Protein intake strategies 57:00 – Calories and diet composition 57:14 – "A calorie is a calorie, but depending on your diet's composition, you'll absorb and utilize very different amounts of calories from food." 01:01:00 – Debating dietary approaches 01:05:00 – Cardiovascular health markers 01:12:00 – Conclusion and contact information — The Hart2Heart podcast is hosted by family physician Dr. Michael Hart, who is dedicated to cutting through the noise and uncovering the most effective strategies for optimizing health, longevity, and peak performance. This podcast dives deep into evidence-based approaches to hormone balance, peptides, sleep optimization, nutrition, psychedelics, supplements, exercise protocols, leveraging sunlight light, and de-prescribing pharmaceuticals—using medications only when absolutely necessary. Beyond health science, we tackle the intersection of public health and politics, exposing how Policy decisions shape our health landscape and what actionable steps people can take to reclaim control over their well-being. Guests range from out-of-the-box thinking physicians such as Dr. Casey Means (author of "Good Energy") and Dr. Roger Sehult (Medcram lectures) to public health experts such as Dr. Jay Bhattacharya (Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Dr. Marty Mckary (Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and high-profile names such as Zuby and Mark Sisson (Primal Blueprint and Primal Kitchen). If you're ready to take control of your health and performance, this is the podcast for you. We cut through the jargon and deliver practical, no-BS advice that you can implement in your daily life, empowering you to make positive changes for your well-being. Connect on social with Dr. Mike Hart: Instagram: @drmikehart Twitter: @drmikehart Facebook: @drmikehart

Sep 11, 2025 • 1h 8min
#192 Exploring Modern Therapy: From Psychedelics to AI with Rav Arora
In this episode of The Heart to Heart podcast, host Dr. Mike Hart welcomes back Rav, an author and host of the Illusion of Consensus podcast. The conversation delves into Rav's evolving interests, from his initial focus on COVID-19 and myocarditis to his current pursuit of a more holistic and spiritually grounded life. Rav discusses his journey through rigorous psychotherapy, aided by psychedelics, to uncover subconscious patterns and improve his overall well-being. The discussion also touches on the utility of AI tools like ChatGPT as supplementary therapy, the impact of social media on Gen Z's social behaviors, and the rising influence of independent journalism. The episode sheds light on finding balance in a hyper-productive world, integrating different therapeutic pathways, and the significance of peaceful presence in one's life. Rav Arora is an independent journalist, cultural critic, and podcast host exploring the intersections of health, spirituality, and human performance. Rising to prominence through his widely read Substack, The Meta Mystic, and as co-host of The Illusion of Consensus podcast, Rav has become a leading voice challenging mainstream narratives in science, psychology, and culture. Follow him here: Substack: The Meta MysticPodcast: The Illusion of ConsensusTwitter/X: @Ravarora1 Links: Psilocybin & Religious Leaders Study Internal Family Systems (IFS) Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) Show Notes: (00:00)Welcome back to the Hart2Heart Podcast with Dr. Mike Hart (01:00) Shifting gears: From COVID to holistic living (02:30) The role of psychedelics in therapy (04:00) Balancing productivity and relaxation (10:00) ChatGPT as a therapeutic tool (18:30) Exploring psychedelic therapy (28:00) The power of peaceful presence (39:00) Psilocybin study on religious leaders (40:30) Challenges in recruiting for the study (41:00) Gen Z and alcohol consumption (42:30) Impact of social media on social skills (43:00) Dating apps and their consequences (50:48) "Social media has provided this illusion and comfort." (53:30) Independent journalism's rise (01:00:30) The future of media and podcasting — The Hart2Heart podcast is hosted by family physician Dr. Michael Hart, who is dedicated to cutting through the noise and uncovering the most effective strategies for optimizing health, longevity, and peak performance. This podcast dives deep into evidence-based approaches to hormone balance, peptides, sleep optimization, nutrition, psychedelics, supplements, exercise protocols, leveraging sunlight light, and de-prescribing pharmaceuticals—using medications only when absolutely necessary. Beyond health science, we tackle the intersection of public health and politics, exposing how policy decisions shape our health landscape and what actionable steps people can take to reclaim control over their well-being. Guests range from out-of-the-box thinking physicians such as Dr. Casey Means (author of "Good Energy") and Dr. Roger Sehult (Medcram lectures) to public health experts such as Dr. Jay Bhattacharya (Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Dr. Marty Mckary (Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and high-profile names such as Zuby and Mark Sisson (Primal Blueprint and Primal Kitchen). If you're ready to take control of your health and performance, this is the podcast for you. We cut through the jargon and deliver practical, no-BS advice that you can implement in your daily life, empowering you to make positive changes for your well-being. Connect on social with Dr. Mike Hart: Instagram: @drmikehart Twitter: @drmikehart Facebook: @drmikehart

Sep 4, 2025 • 41min
#191 Unlocking Sleep: Prescription Aids and Alternatives
In this solo podcast episode, Dr Mike Hart provides actionable, evidence-backed strategies to improve overall circadian rhythm and consequently enhance sleep quality. He discusses the importance of a regulated sleep-wake cycle and its impact on hormone release, metabolism, immune function, and general well-being. Various methods to maintain a healthy circadian rhythm are explored, including the benefits of morning sunlight exposure, the role of blue light blocking in the evening, and the timing of meals and exercise. He also touches on the effects of caffeine and alcohol on sleep, the ideal sleep environment, and additional supportive practices like social interaction, light physical activity, and evening routines that promote relaxation. Links: Dual Orexin Receptor Antagonists (DORAs) Forgiveness & Better Sleep (PubMed) Omega-3 (Fish Oil / EPA) Show Notes: (0:00) Welcome back to the Hart2Heart Podcast with Dr. Mike Hart (01:30) Natural sleep improvement tips (02:33) "Cortisol isn't bad—it's about timing. You want it high in the morning and low at night for better sleep." (04:30) Behavioral modifications and supplements (08:30) Introduction to prescription sleep medications (10:00) Dual orexin receptor antagonists (DORAs) (14:30) Z-Drugs: Benefits and risks (18:00) Benzodiazepines: Usage and caution (20:30) Doxepin and H1 inverse agonists (22:30) Gabapentinoids for sleep and pain (26:30) Alpha adrenergic agents (31:30) Sedating antidepressants (37:30) Sodium oxybate for narcolepsy — The Hart2Heart podcast is hosted by family physician Dr. Michael Hart, who is dedicated to cutting through the noise and uncovering the most effective strategies for optimizing health, longevity, and peak performance. This podcast dives deep into evidence-based approaches to hormone balance, peptides, sleep optimization, nutrition, psychedelics, supplements, exercise protocols, leveraging sunlight light, and de-prescribing pharmaceuticals—using medications only when absolutely necessary. Beyond health science, we tackle the intersection of public health and politics, exposing how policy decisions shape our health landscape and what actionable steps people can take to reclaim control over their well-being. Guests range from out-of-the-box thinking physicians such as Dr. Casey Means (author of "Good Energy") and Dr. Roger Sehult (Medcram lectures) to public health experts such as Dr. Jay Bhattacharya (Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Dr. Marty Mckary (Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and high-profile names such as Zuby and Mark Sisson (Primal Blueprint and Primal Kitchen). If you're ready to take control of your health and performance, this is the podcast for you. We cut through the jargon and deliver practical, no-BS advice that you can implement in your daily life, empowering you to make positive changes for your well-being. Connect on social with Dr. Mike Hart: Instagram: @drmikehart Twitter: @drmikehart Facebook: @drmikehart


