Health Is A Skill with Todd Vande Hei

Latest Episodes:

Optimizing Brain Health & Recovery with Kristen Willeumier, PhD and Alice Nguyen, NMD Mar 20, 2025

Show notes

How do concussions, repetitive head trauma, and strokes impact long-term brain health? Neuroscientist Dr. Kristen Willeumier and naturopathic physician Dr. Alice Nguyen join Todd Vande Hei for an eye-opening discussion on brain resilience, recovery, and performance.

Dr. Willeumier explains the dangers of subconcussive impacts—those repeated hits that don’t cause immediate symptoms but lead to long-term neurological damage. She breaks down the science of neuroplasticity, the role of tau protein in CTE, and how modern therapies like hyperbaric oxygen can support brain repair.

Dr. Nguyen provides a functional medicine perspective, detailing the key supplements, lab tests, and lifestyle changes that optimize cognitive function. She shares the exact protocol Todd followed before and after his stroke, offering valuable insights into the power of omega-3s, glutathione, and mitochondrial support.

This episode is packed with actionable strategies to protect your brain, enhance mental clarity, and age with cognitive resilience. Whether you’re an athlete, recovering from an injury, or simply looking to perform at your best, these insights are essential.

Get access to Todd’s free health resource: https://podtodd.com

Learn more about Stark at: https://www.stark.health

CHAPTERS:
00:00 Introduction to Dr. Kristen Willeumier & Dr. Alice Nguyen
03:10 The Hidden Dangers of Repetitive Head Trauma
07:35 How Subconcussive Impacts Lead to Long-Term Brain Damage
12:15 The Science of CTE & Tau Protein Accumulation
18:00 Stroke vs. Concussions: Key Differences in Recovery
22:45 Strategies for Neuroplasticity & Brain Repair
28:30 The Role of Supplements in Cognitive Function
34:20 How TRT Influences Brain Performance
40:50 The Importance of Diet in Neurological Health
46:15 Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Brain Recovery
51:40 Practical Steps to Maintain Cognitive Longevity
58:10 Closing Thoughts & Where to Find Dr. Willeumier & Dr. Nguyen

Your health is a skill you can build. Start with the free resources at podtodd.com or explore team-based health optimization at stark.health

Strength as a Skill, with Brett Jones Mar 14, 2025

Show notes

Strength training isn’t just about lifting heavier—it’s about training smarter. Brett Jones, director of education at StrongFirst, rejoins Todd this week on the podcast, sharing his philosophy on strength training as a skill.

Brett dives into the science behind recovery and why effort alone doesn’t equal better results. He also highlights the role of grip strength as a key predictor of longevity and how maintaining muscle mass can impact overall health, including disease recovery. Having gone through cancer treatment himself, Brett emphasizes why being strong before facing a health crisis can be life-changing.

From busting training myths to explaining why testing and training should be separate, this episode offers actionable insights for anyone looking to build long-term strength.

Learn more about Brett and his resources on his website: https://appliedstrength.com/ or follow him on Instagram at @brettjonessfg.

Get access to Todd's free health resource: https://podtodd.com

Learn more about Stark at: https://www.stark.health

CHAPTERS: 00:00 Strength Is a Skill, Not Just Lifting Weights 02:52 The Wheel of Health: A Holistic View of Well-Being 04:46 Introducing Brett Jones & Strong First Training Philosophy 06:11 Common Myths That Hinder Strength Progress 09:19 The Importance of Movement Patterns for Orthopedic Health 15:51 Defining True Strength Training vs. High-Rep Workouts 18:49 The Role of Recovery in Strength Development 26:06 The Psychology of Effort: Why More Isn't Always Better 30:29 Grip Strength as a Marker for Longevity & Overall Strength 36:39 Strength Training & Disease Prevention: What the Research Says 41:56 How to Integrate Kettlebells for Maximum Benefit 45:35 Iron Cardio: Brett's Training Approach for Strength & Endurance 50:00 The Most Effective Training Plan for Busy Schedules

Connect with Stark Personalized inside‑out health programs at stark.health

Enjoying the show? Follow, rate, and review to help more listeners master the skill of health.

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🤔 ABOUT Todd Vande Hei 🤔

Welcome to Todd Vande Hei's channel, where health mastery meets real-life transformation. Join Todd as he shares invaluable insights and practical tips to help you unlock your full health potential.

Whether you're struggling with chronic pain, seeking sustainable weight loss, or simply striving to live your best life, Todd's journey and expertise will inspire and empower you to take control of your health and well-being.

Join our community of health enthusiasts committed to making positive changes and thriving at every stage of life. Let's embark on this journey to vibrant health together!

DISCLOSURE

We focus on optimizing every aspect of your well-being. At Stark, our team of expert trainers, doctors, nutritionists and a complete medical support team, led by CEO Todd Vande Hei, is dedicated to helping you become the BEST version of yourself. We specialize in coaching executives, athletes, pop stars, astronauts and other noteworthy individuals in all forms of exercise, diet, lifestyle, stress management and personalized supplement protocols.

Our methodology is designed to tackle each facet of well-being comprehensively. We believe that optimal h...

Your health is a skill you can build. Start with the free resources at podtodd.com or explore team-based health optimization at stark.health

Strength as a Skill, with Brett Jones Mar 14, 2025

Show notes

From busting training myths to explaining why testing and training should be separate, this episode offers actionable insights for anyone looking to build long-term strength.

Learn more about Brett and his resources on his website: https://appliedstrength.com/ or follow him on Instagram at @brettjonessfg.

Get access to Todd's free health resource: https://podtodd.com

Learn more about Stark at: https://www.stark.health

CHAPTERS:
00:00 Strength Is a Skill, Not Just Lifting Weights
02:52 The Wheel of Health: A Holistic View of Well-Being
04:46 Introducing Brett Jones & Strong First Training Philosophy
06:11 Common Myths That Hinder Strength Progress
09:19 The Importance of Movement Patterns for Orthopedic Health
15:51 Defining True Strength Training vs. High-Rep Workouts
18:49 The Role of Recovery in Strength Development
26:06 The Psychology of Effort: Why More Isn't Always Better
30:29 Grip Strength as a Marker for Longevity & Overall Strength
36:39 Strength Training & Disease Prevention: What the Research Says
41:56 How to Integrate Kettlebells for Maximum Benefit
45:35 Iron Cardio: Brett's Training Approach for Strength & Endurance
50:00 The Most Effective Training Plan for Busy Schedules

Your health is a skill you can build. Start with the free resources at podtodd.com or explore team-based health optimization at stark.health

Hydration, Joint Mobility, & Fascia Health, with Bryce Turner Mar 06, 2025

Show notes

Hydration is more than just drinking water—it’s about optimizing how your body absorbs, utilizes, and retains fluids to enhance mobility, reduce inflammation, and support long-term health. On this week’s episode of Health Is A Skill, Bryce Turner—owner of Beach Fitness and ELDOA USA—returns to the podcast, this time breaking down why hydration is a foundational component of structural wellness, particularly when it comes to joint mobility and fascia health.

During their conversation, Bryce and Todd walk through how hydration impacts everything from cellular energy production to pain management and digestion. Bryce discusses the optimal amount of water intake, the importance of mineral balance (including sodium and potassium), and how simple hydration mistakes can lead to stagnation, joint compression, and chronic pain.

Towards the end of the episode Bryce also shares insights into hydration myths, the impact of diet on water absorption, and how simple changes—like adding sea salt to water—can make a huge difference. Whether you’re an athlete, fitness professional, or just looking to improve your hydration habits, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways for boosting your overall hydration.

Follow Bryce on Instagram @beachbryce or check out his page on ELDOA USA here: https://eldoausa.com/trainer/bryce-turner/

Get access to Todd's free health resource: https://podtodd.com

Learn more about Stark at: https://www.stark.health

CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction to Hydration & Movement 02:15 The Importance of Baseline Hydration Assessment 04:30 How Hydration Affects Joint Mobility & Recovery 07:45 Common Hydration Mistakes & Misconceptions 11:20 The Role of Electrolytes & Salt in Hydration 15:00 How Stress Impacts Hydration & Connective Tissue 20:30 Movement, Circulation, & Fluid Stagnation 25:10 Water Quality: Filtration Systems & Best Practices 30:45 When & How to Drink Water for Optimal Absorption 35:30 Hydration Strategies for Active vs. Sedentary Lifestyles 40:20 Sauna Therapy & Other Hydration Optimization Tips 46:00 Closing Thoughts & Where to Learn More

Connect with Stark Personalized inside‑out health programs at stark.health

Enjoying the show? Follow, rate, and review to help more listeners master the skill of health.

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

🤔 ABOUT Todd Vande Hei 🤔

Welcome to Todd Vande Hei's channel, where health mastery meets real-life transformation. Join Todd as he shares invaluable insights and practical tips to help you unlock your full health potential.

Join our community of health enthusiasts committed to making positive changes and thriving at every stage of life. Let's embark on this journey to vibrant health together!

DISCLOSURE

Our methodology is designed to tackle each facet of well-being comprehensively. We believe that optimal h...

Your health is a skill you can build. Start with the free resources at podtodd.com or explore team-based health optimization at stark.health

Hydration, Joint Mobility, & Fascia Health, with Bryce Turner Mar 06, 2025

Show notes

Follow Bryce on Instagram @beachbryce or check out his page on ELDOA USA here: https://eldoausa.com/trainer/bryce-turner/

Get access to Todd's free health resource: https://podtodd.com

Learn more about Stark at: https://www.stark.health

CHAPTERS:
00:00 Introduction to Hydration & Movement
02:15 The Importance of Baseline Hydration Assessment
04:30 How Hydration Affects Joint Mobility & Recovery
07:45 Common Hydration Mistakes & Misconceptions
11:20 The Role of Electrolytes & Salt in Hydration
15:00 How Stress Impacts Hydration & Connective Tissue
20:30 Movement, Circulation, & Fluid Stagnation
25:10 Water Quality: Filtration Systems & Best Practices
30:45 When & How to Drink Water for Optimal Absorption
35:30 Hydration Strategies for Active vs. Sedentary Lifestyles
40:20 Sauna Therapy & Other Hydration Optimization Tips
46:00 Closing Thoughts & Where to Learn More

Your health is a skill you can build. Start with the free resources at podtodd.com or explore team-based health optimization at stark.health

Unlocking Intimacy, Connection, & Sexual Well-Being, with Aaro Ardis Feb 27, 2025

Show notes

Intimacy is about so much more than physical connection—it's a pathway to deeper relationships, stronger communication, and improved mental well-being. On this week’s episode of Health Is A Skill, relationship coach Aaro Ardis joins Todd for a fascinating conversation about the complexities of love, sex, and connection.

During their conversation Aaro explains the significance of conscious coupling, how to set clear agreements in relationships, and the role of emotional awareness in creating long-term satisfaction. She also dives into the physiological and psychological benefits of intimacy—from reducing anxiety to boosting longevity—and shares practical tips for cultivating deeper connection with your partner.

If you're looking for actionable strategies to improve your romantic relationships, increase emotional connection, and enhance your sex life, this episode delivers powerful insights from one of the best relationship coaches in the field.

Learn more about Aaro and her practice on her website: https://aaroardis.com/.

Get access to Todd's free health resource: https://podtodd.com

Learn more about Stark at: https://www.stark.health

CHAPTERS: 00:00 The Hidden Benefits of Intimacy 00:49 Introduction to Health Is a Skill & Stark 03:54 Understanding the Wheel of Health 06:48 Todd’s Personal Experience with Aaro 09:49 The Science of Intimacy & Health 14:55 Aaro’s Background & Journey to Coaching 19:41 The Role of Intimacy in Mental Well-being 21:55 Overcoming Vulnerability in Relationships 23:35 Rebuilding Emotional Connection 26:02 Improving Communication Around Intimacy 27:54 The Power of Shared Activities & Attraction 29:05 Addressing Shame & Anxiety in Intimacy 36:50 Navigating Mismatched Libidos 40:31 Mindfulness & Its Role in Intimacy 45:47 Lessons from Non-Traditional Relationships 50:30 Daily Practices for Deeper Connection 54:18 The Key to a Stronger Relationship

Connect with Stark Personalized inside‑out health programs at stark.health

Enjoying the show? Follow, rate, and review to help more listeners master the skill of health.

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

🤔 ABOUT Todd Vande Hei 🤔

Welcome to Todd Vande Hei's channel, where health mastery meets real-life transformation. Join Todd as he shares invaluable insights and practical tips to help you unlock your full health potential.

Join our community of health enthusiasts committed to making positive changes and thriving at every stage of life. Let's embark on this journey to vibrant health together!

DISCLOSURE

Our methodology is designed to tackle each facet of well-being comprehensively. We believe that optimal h...

Your health is a skill you can build. Start with the free resources at podtodd.com or explore team-based health optimization at stark.health

Unlocking Intimacy, Connection, & Sexual Well-Being, with Aaro Ardis Feb 27, 2025

Show notes

Learn more about Aaro and her practice on her website: https://aaroardis.com/.

Get access to Todd's free health resource: https://podtodd.com

Learn more about Stark at: https://www.stark.health

CHAPTERS:
00:00 The Hidden Benefits of Intimacy
00:49 Introduction to Health Is a Skill & Stark
03:54 Understanding the Wheel of Health
06:48 Todd’s Personal Experience with Aaro
09:49 The Science of Intimacy & Health
14:55 Aaro’s Background & Journey to Coaching
19:41 The Role of Intimacy in Mental Well-being
21:55 Overcoming Vulnerability in Relationships
23:35 Rebuilding Emotional Connection
26:02 Improving Communication Around Intimacy
27:54 The Power of Shared Activities & Attraction
29:05 Addressing Shame & Anxiety in Intimacy
36:50 Navigating Mismatched Libidos
40:31 Mindfulness & Its Role in Intimacy
45:47 Lessons from Non-Traditional Relationships
50:30 Daily Practices for Deeper Connection
54:18 The Key to a Stronger Relationship

Your health is a skill you can build. Start with the free resources at podtodd.com or explore team-based health optimization at stark.health

Rewriting the Brain for Freedom & Performance, with “The Mind Architect” Peter Crone Feb 20, 2025

Show notes

Most people don’t simply live their lives—they live out the stories going on in their minds. On this week’s episode of Health Is A Skill, Todd sits down with “The Mind Architect”, Peter Crone, to dive into how deeply ingrained subconscious beliefs drive behavior and limit potential. Peter shares how he helps elite athletes, executives, and everyday individuals break free from fear, stress, and self-imposed constraints.

Together the two discuss the difference between reactive and responsive living, the power of curiosity, and why true success requires trust, patience, and humility. Peter also explores the profound impact mindset has on health, healing, and longevity, arguing that shifting perspectives can be the key to dissolving anxiety and even improving physical well-being.

If you’re feeling stuck in repetitive cycles—whether in your career, relationships, or personal health—this episode will challenge you to reconsider the way you see the world and yourself.

Learn more about Peter on his website: https://www.petercrone.com/.

Get access to Todd's free health resource: https://podtodd.com

Learn more about Stark at: https://www.stark.health

CHAPTERS: 00:00 The Illusion of Stress and Control 03:30 Todd’s Transformational Moment with Peter 06:12 How Mental Narratives Shape Reality 09:38 The Two Biggest Mental Barriers for Elite Performers 12:35 How Mindset Affects Aging and Flexibility 17:00 Rethinking Anxiety: The Power of Perception 19:40 Can Mindset Alone Heal Disease? 23:41 The Body as a Self-Healing Pharmacy 26:43 Acceptance vs. Resistance in High Performance 30:17 Breaking Free from Stuck Patterns 34:32 The Power of Trust, Patience, and Delegation 40:49 Embracing Impermanence for a More Fulfilling Life 49:25 Advice to a Younger Self

Connect with Stark Personalized inside‑out health programs at stark.health

Enjoying the show? Follow, rate, and review to help more listeners master the skill of health.

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

🤔 ABOUT Todd Vande Hei 🤔

Welcome to Todd Vande Hei's channel, where health mastery meets real-life transformation. Join Todd as he shares invaluable insights and practical tips to help you unlock your full health potential.

Join our community of health enthusiasts committed to making positive changes and thriving at every stage of life. Let's embark on this journey to vibrant health together!

DISCLOSURE

Our methodology is designed to tackle each facet of well-being comprehensively. We believe that optimal h...

Your health is a skill you can build. Start with the free resources at podtodd.com or explore team-based health optimization at stark.health

Rewriting the Brain for Freedom & Performance, with “The Mind Architect” Peter Crone Feb 20, 2025

Show notes

If you’re feeling stuck in repetitive cycles—whether in your career, relationships, or personal health—this episode will challenge you to reconsider the way you see the world and yourself.

Learn more about Peter on his website: https://www.petercrone.com/.

Get access to Todd's free health resource: https://podtodd.com

Learn more about Stark at: https://www.stark.health

CHAPTERS:
00:00 The Illusion of Stress and Control
03:30 Todd’s Transformational Moment with Peter
06:12 How Mental Narratives Shape Reality
09:38 The Two Biggest Mental Barriers for Elite Performers
12:35 How Mindset Affects Aging and Flexibility
17:00 Rethinking Anxiety: The Power of Perception
19:40 Can Mindset Alone Heal Disease?
23:41 The Body as a Self-Healing Pharmacy
26:43 Acceptance vs. Resistance in High Performance
30:17 Breaking Free from Stuck Patterns
34:32 The Power of Trust, Patience, and Delegation
40:49 Embracing Impermanence for a More Fulfilling Life
49:25 Advice to a Younger Self

Your health is a skill you can build. Start with the free resources at podtodd.com or explore team-based health optimization at stark.health

Functional Medicine, Gut Health, & Toxicity, with Dr. Bob Rakowski Feb 13, 2025

Show notes

The foundation of health starts in the gut—something ancient wisdom and modern science both can agree on. In this week’s episode of Health Is A Skill, Dr. Bob Rakowski unpacks the critical role gut health plays in overall wellness and why functional medicine is the key to addressing the root causes of disease.

Together Todd and Dr. Rakowski highlight the dangers of xenoestrogens and microplastics, explaining their link to declining testosterone, metabolic disorders, and early puberty. The conversation then shifts to hormones, where Dr. Rakowski reveals why muscle is the real driver of longevity and explains that conventional hormone replacement therapies may not be the best first step.

With decades of experience in functional medicine, Dr. Rakowski shares inspiring case studies of patients reversing chronic diseases, overcoming stage four cancer, and regaining their health through natural interventions. His insights on diet, movement, stress management, and environmental awareness offer a powerful roadmap for anyone looking to optimize their health.

Learn more about Dr. Rakowski and his practice on his website: https://www.drbobrakowski.com/.

Get access to Todd's free health resource: https://podtodd.com

Learn more about Stark at: https://www.stark.health

CHAPTERS: 00:00 Suppression of Natural Medicine and Its Comeback 03:26 Todd’s Health Transformation and the Role of Functional Medicine 06:20 Gut Health: The Foundation of Wellness 07:34 What is Functional Medicine? Common Misconceptions 12:55 Understanding Hormones and Endocrine Disruptors 16:57 Xenoestrogens and Their Impact on Male and Female Health 18:39 Microplastics and Environmental Toxins in the Body 25:53 The Shift Towards Health Consciousness in Younger Generations 27:53 Diagnostic Tools in Functional Medicine 33:59 The War on Health and Political Shifts in Medicine 35:17 Generational Differences in Healthcare Trust 37:49 How to Begin Your Health Journey 40:09 Success Stories: Overcoming Chronic Illness with Functional Medicine 42:17 Where to Find Dr. Bob Rakowski

Connect with Stark Personalized inside‑out health programs at stark.health

Enjoying the show? Follow, rate, and review to help more listeners master the skill of health.

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

🤔 ABOUT Todd Vande Hei 🤔

Welcome to Todd Vande Hei's channel, where health mastery meets real-life transformation. Join Todd as he shares invaluable insights and practical tips to help you unlock your full health potential.

Join our community of health enthusiasts committed to making positive changes and thriving at every stage of life. Let's embark on this journey to vibrant health together!

DISCLOSURE

Our methodology is designed to tackle each facet of well-being comprehensively. We believe that optimal h...

Your health is a skill you can build. Start with the free resources at podtodd.com or explore team-based health optimization at stark.health

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