After nearly 700 episodes, this is the final episode of Age Less / Live More. What started as a way to answer yoga students’ questions gradually evolved into an international exploration of healthspan and wellness. For over a decade, this podcast has been a key part of the YOGABODY journey—and it’s deeply shaped my work as a teacher.

Thank you for listening. I hope to continue supporting you through new platforms and projects in the future.

Is it the chicken or the egg? Did your chemical imbalance lead to weight gain, or did weight changes trigger a hormonal shift? Did depression cause neurotransmitter imbalances, or did the imbalance spark depression—or both? This week, we speak with a psychiatrist who specializes in the physiological effects of mental health, and take a deep dive into trauma.

Listen and learn:

• The clinical definition of trauma
• What really happens when we "get over" past trauma
• The role of social support in healing
• Why physical exercise might be the most powerful mental health intervention of all time

LINK:

https://odonovanlab.ucsf.edu/

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Dr. Aoife O'Donovan is an Associate Professor of Psychiatry at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) and a Research Psychologist at the San Francisco Veterans Affairs Healthcare System. She aims to identify biological and psychological markers of stress-related illnesses.

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When you search online for ways to live a healthy life, you're bombarded by charismatic speakers, some with medical degrees or PhDs, promising miracle cures. From cancer treatments to fat-burning morning rituals and an endless array of supplements claiming to unlock the fountain of youth, the noise is overwhelming.

Some of these claims contain a grain of truth; others are pure fiction. But in nearly every case, they distract from what truly matters—focusing on minor details that won’t meaningfully impact your health tomorrow, next year, or even a decade from now.
The fundamentals of health, fitness, and longevity may not be flashy, but they are essential. In this week’s podcast, we hear from a PhD researcher and educator whose work focuses on healthspan and longevity.

Listen and learn:

• Why the science community often lacks the communication and marketing skills for their ideas
• How quickly simply-sounding health data can be misinterpreted
• The real risk of sarcopenia (muscle loss) and what to do about it
• Why your health in later life is often the compounding of small behaviors over years or decades

Links:

www.rachelepojednic.com

@rachelepojednic

About Our Guest:

Dr. Rachele Pojednic is a researcher specializing in human performance and healthy aging, serving as the Director of Scientific Research at Restore Hyperwellness and a faculty member in Stanford’s Program in Human Biology. She also leads education at Stanford Lifestyle Medicine and is a research affiliate at Harvard Medical School’s Institute of Lifestyle Medicine. With a PhD in nutritional biochemistry from Tufts and postdoctoral training at Harvard, her work explores the impact of nutrition, supplementation, and physical activity on muscle physiology and longevity. 

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Have you ever struggled to support a close friend or family member dealing with a mental health condition? How do you know when you're truly helping rather than enabling? When should you push, simply show up, or even step away? If these questions resonate with you, you’re not alone—at least 20% and possibly up to 40% of people will face this reality at some point in their lives. On this week’s podcast, you’ll meet a psychologist who shares her research and clinical experiences.

Listen and learn:

• How to differentiate between supporting and enabling a loved one
• Key questions to ask yourself if you're in a caregiving role
• The impact of online support groups and AI on mental health care
• Strategies for handling difficult or unpleasant caregiving situations
• How to find affordable mental health resources locally and nationally
• Common challenges of caring for aging family members and how to cope

Links

www.SeedsofHopeBooks.com

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Dr. Michelle D. Sherman is a licensed clinical psychologist with over 25 years of experience, specializing in individual and couples therapy. She was a professor in the Department of Family Medicine and Community Health at the University of Minnesota Medical School and is a board-certified expert in couples and family psychology. Her work focuses on supporting families dealing with mental illness, PTSD, and trauma. She is the author of Loving Someone with a Mental Illness or History of Trauma: Skills, Hope, and Strength for Your Journey.

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Chronic pain affects as many as 1 in 5 people worldwide and can lead to a huge reduction in quality of life, drug addiction, and very desperate outcomes. Today’s guest helps people use tools like mindfulness and therapy - among others - to manage and even reverse pain naturally.

Listen and Learn:

• Why pain isn’t always physical. Chronic pain often comes from the brain, not the body.
• Non-opioid treatment approaches to chronic pain
• How mindfulness techniques like pain reprocessing can cut chronic pain by 50%.

LINKS

https://www.drmelpohl.com

https://thepointemalibu.com/

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Dr. Mel Pohl is a family physician specializing in addiction medicine and chronic pain management. He is the Senior Medical Consultant for the Pain Recovery Program at The Pointe Malibu Recovery Center and previously served as Chief Medical Officer at the Las Vegas Recovery Center. He has written books on chronic pain, including The Pain Antidote, and focuses on non-opioid treatment approaches.

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On any given day, up to one in three people experience GI tract troubles—whether it's gas, bloating, indigestion, or constipation. These issues are not only common but complex to understand. This week, we sit down with a colorectal surgeon to unravel the mysteries of bowel health and provide practical solutions to keep things running smoothly.

Listen and Learn:

• Colonoscopy vs. FIT test: Which one is right for you?
• Stool 101: What floaters, sinkers, shapes, and sizes reveal about your health
• Hemorrhoids: Common causes and effective treatments
• Practical tips to reach your daily fiber goal of 25–35 grams

Links

https://carmenfong.com

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Dr. Carmen Fong is a colorectal surgeon and author. She is double-board certified in general surgery and colorectal surgery and is the author of Constipation Nation: What to Know When You Can't Go.

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In endurance sports, certain countries consistently dominate the podium. While many theories attempt to explain this, the most overlooked—and perhaps the most relevant—is culture. The influence of your social group and peers plays a huge role in shaping your choices and potential, yet we often assume that health and fitness are driven by gadgets, apps, or elite trainers. In reality, human connection, support, and a sense of adventure may be the biggest performance enhancers. This week’s podcast explores high-performance endurance athletics through the lens of anthropology.

Listen and learn:

• How training in Ethiopia differs from the rest of the world
• The power of fun, play, and variety in training
• Why community and social support might be the missing ingredient

Link

durham.ac.uk

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Dr. Michael Crawley is an anthropologist, writer, and accomplished runner. He is an Assistant Professor of Social Anthropology at Durham University and author of Out of Thin Air (2020) and To the Limit (2024).

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Aging is deeply personal—there’s no right or wrong way to do it. Some people embrace every new anti-aging intervention, while others prefer to let nature take its course. But what does science say about aging well? In this episode, we explore the choices people make, the science behind longevity, and how cutting-edge technology might shape the future of how aging looks.

Listen and learn:

• Risk vs. reward of various interventions
• The role of diet, lifestyle, and nutrition in aging gracefully
• Developments in aesthetic and cosmetic surgeries
• A.I.’s potential role in anti-aging  

Links

https://www.corygoldbergmd.com

ABOUT OUR GEST  

Dr. Cory S. Goldberg is a board-certified plastic and craniofacial surgeon specializing in longevity medicine. He co-founded Healthspan Digital and Beautyspan, leveraging AI-driven precision medicine for both aesthetic and longevity applications.

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We’re navigating a paradox in health and wellness. Developed nations are sicker than ever, yet healthcare systems have reached remarkable levels of advancement. At the same time, access to care, health insurance, and patient agency seem to be at an all-time low. How can we take control of our health without succumbing to cynicism? And what steps can we take to create a healthier future for ourselves and the next generation?
This week, we’re joined by a doctor and healthcare administrator who dives deep into the complexities of modern healthcare. Together, we’ll uncover why the system is broken, explore the differences between Medicare and Medicaid, examine successful healthcare models, and discuss actionable solutions for the future.

Listen and learn:

• Why the healthcare system is failing
• The truth about Medicare vs. Medicaid
• Examples of healthcare systems that work
• Real solutions for meaningful change

Link

AbrahamNussbaum.com

ABOUT OUT GUEST

Dr. Abraham M. Nussbaum is a psychiatrist and author dedicated to reimagining healthcare through a more humane and patient-centered approach. He serves as the Chief Education Officer at Denver Health and has written extensively on the intersection of medicine, ethics, and personal connection, including Progress Notes: One Year in the Future of Medicine and The Finest Traditions of My Calling: One Physician’s Search for the Renewal of Medicine.

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By middle age, most people have at least one joint that causes them problems—maybe a knee, hip, their lower back, or shoulder. How should you handle it? Painkillers? Physical therapy? Surgery? These are tough decisions, especially to face alone. This week on Age Less, Live More, you’ll meet a physiotherapist who specializes in helping people stay active and healthy in middle age and beyond.

Listen and learn:

• The importance of full body mobility as well as joint specific mobility
• Why three months is often a great initial test period for reliability and injury
• Why it’s never too late to build strength and mobility

Guest Link

www.WillHarlow.com

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Will Harlow is a physiotherapist and author of Thriving Beyond Fifty, a guide focused on helping people over fifty maintain mobility, avoid surgery, and reduce dependence on pain medication. 

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When we think about improving our health, our brain is often overlooked, but it shouldn't be. Neurodegenerative illnesses are among the leading causes of death globally. Even more pressing, a sick, inflamed, or imbalanced brain can immediately diminish your quality of life. This week, we’re joined by a neurologist and author whose work highlights lifestyle interventions that boost brain health.

Listen and learn:

• What the Default Mode Network is and its role in your brain
• Factors that contribute to migraine and why management might be the key
• How mindfulness practices can support long term brain health
• Simple ways to start improving your brain health today

LINK

www.drsuiwongmd.com

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Dr. Sui H. Wong is a neurologist and neuro-ophthalmologist based in London, UK. She has authored a number of books including Sweet Spot for Brain Health, Sleep Better to Thrive, and Break Free From Migraines Naturally. 

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When you hear the word “metabolism,” you might think of calories or basal metabolic rate—the energy your body needs to survive. But metabolism is much more than that. It’s a complex network of processes influenced by your diet, lifestyle, sleep, exercise, and stress, impacting nearly every part of your physical and mental health. This week, we hear from an academic researcher whose groundbreaking work in metabolomics sheds light on the deeper science of metabolism and its far-reaching implications for health and wellness.

Listen and learn:

• Why metabolism is about more than just calories
• The hidden complexities of your digestive system and its impact on health
• How artificial intelligence is transforming scientific research into metabolism
• The exciting future of vaccines and their role in metabolic health
• Why fears surrounding GMO foods are often based on myths, not facts
• How metabolomics is paving the way for innovative health interventions

Link

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Oliver Fiehn is a professor of molecular and cellular biology at the University of California, Davis, and director of the Fiehn Lab and the West Coast Metabolomics Center. A pioneer in metabolomics, he has authored over 450 publications and is renowned for advancing analytical chemistry and bioinformatics to study metabolism in health and disease. 

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Bad knees can feel like a roadblock to living your best life, but modern treatments and techniques can offer real solutions. Whether you're exploring the cutting-edge possibilities of PRP injections, weighing up the benefits of physical therapy, or curious about the latest in meniscus repair, this episode breaks down the pros, cons, and science behind today's knee health strategies.

Listen and learn:

• Why exercise is crucial to healing and long-term joint health
• Surgical, injection, and other options to consider
• The confusing paradox of MRIs and scans

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Dr. Daniel K. White is an Associate Professor in Physical Therapy at the University of Delaware and an expert in knee osteoarthritis and rehabilitation.

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When stress turns into overwhelm and overwhelm leads to burnout, we all break down in different ways. Some of us get sick or feel anxious and depressed, others retreat into isolation or dive into hyper-social distractions. However you respond, the impact of long-term stress is undeniable. Recognizing the problem is one thing, but what do you do next? This week, we’re joined by a performance coach who specializes in helping people take an honest assessment of their lives and create a framework for meaningful, positive change.

Listen and learn:

• Why sleep, exercise, and nutrition are the cornerstones of resilience
• How tracking your sleep, heart rate variability, and steps can provide critical insights into your health
• The role of community and accountability in driving sustainable progress
• Understanding the risks of an isolated lifestyle and how to stay connected in a work-from-home world

LINK

https://neuropeakpro.com/

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Nick Bolhuis is Vice President of Performance Programs at Neuropeak Pro, where he leads initiatives in precision breathing, heart rate variability, and brain performance training.

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Why do you feel hungry, even when you’ve eaten plenty? What drives your cravings, second servings, and post-dinner sweet tooth? In this week’s episode, we dive into the untold story behind hunger and satiety signals with a leading bariatric surgeon. Discover how imbalanced hormones can fuel overeating, and how modern medicine and nutrition can help restore energy balance. From groundbreaking treatments to the science of hormones, this episode is your guide to understanding and overcoming the root causes of hunger and weight gain.

Listen and learn:

• The critical role Omega-3 fatty acids play in weight management
• How leptin resistance impacts your hunger and energy balance
• The current state of bariatric surgery and who it helps most
• How GLP-1 agonist drugs are revolutionizing weight loss treatment
• Why weight regain is common after surgery, medication, or fad diets

LINKS

https://www.laparoscopicconsultant.co.uk/

https://mymetabology.com/ 

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Andrew Jenkinson is a bariatric surgeon and author specializing in the treatment of obesity and metabolic health. He is the author of Why We Eat (Too Much), which explores the biological and psychological causes of overeating and weight gain. 

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When you're physically ill, rest and support are often readily offered. But when you're mentally unwell—grappling with anxiety, depression, or even deeper struggles—not only is recognition rare, but the help you receive might even set you back. This week, we tackle mental health in the year ahead. How can you prepare for a proactive, mentally healthy 2025? Join us for an honest conversation about recognizing struggles, offering real support, and creating a foundation for mental wellness in the coming year.

Listen and learn: 

• Why so many addicts’ therapy journeys end in tragedy 
• Why we rarely work on our mental health proactively
• How you might support yourself and your family in 2025 for mental health 

Links

https://www.DrjalaliandAssociates.com

https://alignremedy.com

ABOUT OUR GUESTS

Dr. Shahrzad Jalali is a licensed clinical psychologist based in Newport Beach, California, specializing in depth-oriented psychotherapy that addresses the root causes of psychological distress. With advanced training in trauma, addiction, and couples therapy, she integrates a bio-psycho-social approach to help individuals reconstruct their identities and foster personal growth.

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In 2002, the Women's Health Initiative study on Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) sent shockwaves through the medical world, halting a major study due to a reported 26% increase in breast cancer risk.

The statistic sounded terrifying, but what it really meant was just eight additional cases per 10,000 women per year. Unfortunately, the lack of clear communication and context sparked widespread fear, leading millions of women to avoid HRT without fully understanding its risks and benefits.

Listen and learn:

• Why the Women’s Health Initiative study on HRT was flawed and misunderstood
• The difference between relative risk and absolute risk—and why it matters
• How HRT protocols from 20+ years ago compare to today’s options
• The importance of advocating for yourself with your doctor
• How modern research and individualized care can reshape menopause treatment
• Practical insights to help you make informed decisions about your health and longevity

LINKS

Dr Schwartz’ s Site

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Dr. Erika Schwartz is a physician, author, and advocate for integrative and patient-centered healthcare. Specializing in hormone health, preventive medicine, and women's wellness, she has spent decades challenging traditional medical paradigms and empowering patients to take an active role in their health journey. With multiple books, national media appearances, and a holistic approach to medicine, Dr. Schwartz bridges the gap between conventional and alternative healthcare strategies.

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We’re living in a time where mental health is at an all-time low, and while awareness of the mental health crisis has never been higher, the question of what to do about it remains a mystery for many. One-on-one talk therapy is incredible, but it’s not always accessible, affordable, or the right fit for everyone. Emotional healing often involves more than just talking; for many, it includes experiences in nature, group support, and even time in the water.
In this week’s episode, meet Natalie Small, a family and marriage counselor whose groundbreaking work integrates therapy with the ocean itself.

Listen and learn:

• The magnetic draw of the ocean and its healing role in our lives
• Why a fear of water or an inability to swim shouldn’t stop you from diving in
• Beginner tips for success with surf, sea, and therapeutic experiences

LINKS

Groundswell Surf Therapy

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Natalie Small is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and the founder of Groundswell Community Project, a nonprofit organization offering surf therapy programs designed to empower women, particularly those recovering from trauma. She specializes in blending nature, movement, and expressive arts into traditional therapeutic approaches

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Chronic pain affects an estimated one in five people, manifesting as knee pain, back pain, migraines, and countless other symptoms. Unfortunately, the pain management market is filled with questionable products, risky medications, and unproven treatments. On this week’s episode, my guests bring expertise in mind-body wellness, exploring new perspectives on how we experience and manage pain.  

Listen and learn:

• How fear and anxiety can drive or intensify pain
• Why feelings of safety and support are key to recovery
• How mind-body approaches support healing, even in structural pain
• Why a collaborative pain management team will offer more effective support than a single provider

LINK: The Pain Reprocessing Therapy Workbook

ABOUT OUR GUESTS

Olivia S. Sinaiko, LPC, and Vanessa M. Blackstone, MSW, are accomplished mental health professionals specializing in chronic pain treatment and co-authors of The Pain Reprocessing Therapy Workbook.

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When it comes to health and wellness, it’s easy to focus on diet, exercise, and even supplements, but sleep often takes a back seat. Since sleep is essential and happens every day, it might make more sense to start with sleep rather than end there. Understanding its role as a powerful leverage point for overall health could shift your priorities. This week, I’m joined by a medical doctor specializing in sleep medicine to dive deep into the science and strategies of better sleep.

Listen and learn:

• Why sleep apnea is on the rise and its effects on health
• The pros and cons of sharing a bed with children or grandchildren
• Myths vs. reality around wine, cannabis, and prescription sleep aids
• How to use the CREATE acronym to prepare for restful sleep

LINK: TheRestfulSleepPlace.com

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Dr. Funke Afolabi-Brown is triple board-certified in pediatrics, pediatric pulmonology, and sleep medicine, reflecting her extensive expertise in these areas. She’s the author of Beyond Tired: A Sleep Physician's Guide To Solving Your Child's Sleep Problems for Good.

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Fertility isn’t just about having kids—it’s a health signal for everyone. Gabriela Rosa, a fertility expert, unpacks the deeper health issues often missed, why quick fixes don’t work, and how a holistic approach can help couples facing challenges. Listen in for a realistic, hopeful perspective on fertility and balanced health.

Listen and learn:

• How fertility reflects overall wellness
• The impact of PCOS, Hypothalamic Amenorrhea, and insulin resistance
• Why IVF alone isn’t always the answer.
• Positive paths forward for couples.

Guest’s Site

Fertility Breakthrough

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Gabriela Rosa is a renowned fertility specialist, naturopathic doctor, and founder of The Rosa Institute, an organization dedicated to improving clinical outcomes in reproductive medicine. With over two decades of experience, she has assisted more than 140,000 couples across 110 countries in overcoming fertility challenges.

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One of the main reasons people stop doing the activities they love is injury—especially to the lower back and knees, which are common in midlife and beyond. When most people see a doctor for these injuries, the primary focus is on pain relief, with little thought given to long-term recovery. However, if your goal is to return to—or even exceed—your previous activity levels, the approach needs to be more nuanced. In this week’s podcast, we’ll dive into the many options available today for healing, including biologics, surgeries, and even joint replacements, so you can keep doing what you love for life.

Listen and learn:

• About PRP injections (and PRP + surgery) as potential treatment options
• The use of stem cells to support healing
• Timeline planning for knee injury recovery
• The possibilities around returning to running

Links

Dr Stone’s Clinic

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Dr. Kevin R. Stone is an orthopedic surgeon, known for his innovations in joint repair and cartilage regeneration. He founded The Stone Clinic and the Stone Research Foundation in San Francisco, focusing on advanced biologics, robotic surgery, and new techniques for knee and ligament repair. He is also the author of Play Forever: How to Recover from Injury and Thrive, where he explores how people can stay active well into old age by taking care of their joints and recovering from injuries.

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