The Ready State Podcast

Discover why you need stress with Dr. Sharon Bergquist, an award-winning physician and author of The Stress Paradox. In this episode of The Ready State podcast, we explore how stress, often misunderstood as harmful, can actually help you live longer, healthier, and happier. Dr. Bergquist breaks down the science of good stress, including the concept of hormesis and how small, manageable stressors can regenerate your body, boost resilience, and improve mental and physical performance.

What You'll Learn in This Episode

Why “stress-free” living is not the goal — and may actually be a risk factor
How your daily discomforts build long-term disease resistance
The 5 good stressors your body needs to thrive (and how to reintroduce them)
Why eating late at night might be as bad for your sleep as drinking alcohol
How plant-based foods gently “stress” your cells to make you stronger
Why the science of hormesis is the future of preventive medicine

Learn why stress is essential for growth, the importance of aligning eating habits with your body’s natural clock, and how even emotional and mental challenges can enhance your capacity to thrive. Packed with actionable tips and real-life examples, this conversation will reshape how you view stress and empower you to embrace it as a tool for better living. Listen now to unlock your full potential!

Key Highlights:

(00:00) - Intro

(01:14) - Laird Superfood Benefits

(03:18) - Guest Introduction: Dr. Sharon Bergquist

(06:28) - Comfort in the Modern World

(07:05) - Benefits of Stress

(10:22) - Importance of Longitudinal Observation

(14:13) - Stress as a Thermostat

(16:40) - Utilizing Stress as a Tool

(20:47) - The Comfort Conundrum Explained

(28:52) - Importance of Hydration

(31:37) - Best Protein Sources for Health

(33:55) - Key Stressors in Modern Life

(34:50) - Phytochemicals: A Positive Stressor

(42:00) - Circadian Fasting Benefits

(48:48) - Minimum Viable Dose Explained

(54:30) - Surprising Research Findings

(57:41) - Mental and Emotional Stress Insights

(01:05:25) - Key Takeaways on Stress

(01:05:56) - Growth Through Discomfort

(01:08:13) - Finding Dr. Bergquist Online

(01:08:54) - Outro

Sponsors

This episode of The Ready State Podcast is brought to you by Laird Superfood, Momentous, and LMNT.

Dr. Drew Timmermans: Revolutionary Ways to Heal Chronic Injuries with PRP & Stem Cell Therapy Aug 21, 2025

Show notes

You’ve heard of PRP. You’ve heard of stem cells. But do you actually know what they are — or when they really work?

In this episode of The Ready State Podcast, Dr. Drew Timmermans breaks down the exploding field of regenerative medicine. We dive into PRP (platelet-rich plasma), autologous stem cell therapy, nerve hydrodissection, and prolotherapy — what they are, how they work, and when they’re appropriate.

This isn’t about magic injections or sketchy clinics abroad. Dr. Timmermans is a naturopathic physician leading the field with science, clinical outcomes, and transparent education. He shares which orthopedic surgeries might soon be obsolete, how to vet a legit provider, what the research actually says, and why your physical exam might matter more than your MRI.

If you’ve ever wondered whether regenerative injections are the real deal — or just expensive hype — this episode is your deep dive.

What You'll Learn in This Episode

Why PRP, stem cells, and prolotherapy aren’t magic fixes — and what they actually do
The difference between a torn tendon… and a nerve problem that just feels like one
How to know if you’re a good candidate for regenerative therapy — and when it’s overkill
The real risks (and limits) of these injections — including pro athletes who got it wrong
Why physical therapy still matters — and how it supercharges long-term results
Which surgeries might become obsolete as regenerative medicine gets better
How to avoid shady clinics, fake stem cell vials, and doctors skipping real diagnostics

Key Highlights:

00:00 - Intro

01:14 - Laird Superfoods

03:24 - Guest Introduction: Dr. Timmermans

06:32 - PRP Therapy: Mechanism Explained

08:52 - Restarting the Healing Response

10:43 - PRP Syringe Contents

15:38 - Autologous Cellular Therapy Explained

19:00 - Appropriate Candidates for Interventions

25:24 - Research Insights on PRP Therapy

30:02 - LMNT Sparkling Variety Pack Overview

31:54 - Momentous: Essential Nutrients for Women

34:24 - Clinical Experience vs. Research Findings

36:20 - Surprising Insights

39:40 - Understanding Pain: It's Not Evil

42:34 - When to Seek Medical Treatment

49:10 - Avoidable Surgeries Discussion

51:36 - Finding a Good Healthcare Provider

56:34 - International Provider Search Tips

58:51 - Progress in Medical Interventions

01:01:51 - Rapid Fire Q&A

01:04:00 - Where to Find Dr. Timmermans

Sponsors

This episode of The Ready State Podcast is brought to you by Laird Superfood, Momentous, and LMNT.

Dr. Jessica Knurick: Fighting Health Misinformation, Nutrition Myths, and Systemic Barriers to Wellness Aug 07, 2025

Show notes

Confused by conflicting nutrition advice and viral health trends? You're not alone. In this episode, Dr. Jessica Knurick—a nutrition scientist, dietitian, and public health expert—tackles the growing wave of health misinformation spreading across social media and mainstream wellness channels.

Dr. Knurick discusses the difference between individual health optimization and public health strategy, why dietary guidelines are so misunderstood, and how systemic barriers like the food environment, misleading marketing, and health policy shape our daily choices.

✅ What You'll Learn in This Episode

How to identify misleading health claims and spot nutrition misinformation
Why public health standards aren't failing — but our food systems are
How social media fuels fear about food, dyes, and toxins
Why systemic barriers—like the food environment and policy gaps—make healthy living harder than it should be
The connection between healthy food accessibility and chronic disease
What MAHA’s narrative around the food system in Europe gets wrong
How we got from “eat your vegetables” to “everything is toxic” in the wellness world
Why defunding and deregulating don’t serve public health and solutions that would
How MAHA’s solutions don’t address the root causes of America’s health crisis
Why new moms are especially vulnerable to health misinformation

Whether you're working on your personal health goals or looking to understand the bigger picture of public wellness, this episode delivers practical, evidence-based advice you can use today.

Key Highlights:

00:00 - Intro

02:53 - Public Health Overview

07:12 - Public Health vs Individual Health Optimization

17:30 - Dietary Guidelines for Health

25:30 - Food Environment Impact

26:34 - MAHA Movement Explained

30:08 - LMNT: Women’s Health Insights

34:30 - Becoming a Health Advocate

43:01 - Misinformation Affecting New Moms

46:45 - Reimagining Public Institutions: FDA

54:22 - Environmental Toxins and Health

59:34 - Citizens United and Health Policy

62:21 - Personal Actions for Health Improvement

62:49 - Defining Success in Health

67:30 - European Health Comparisons

75:26 - Missing Elements in Health Conversations

77:55 - Basics of Public Health Explained

82:58 - Funding Public Health Initiatives

88:27 - Personal Experiences in Health Advocacy

92:04 - Trusted Sources for Health Information

95:03 - Where to Find More Information

Sponsors

This episode of The Ready State Podcast is brought to you by Laird Superfood, Momentous, and LMNT.

Dr. Emily Splichal: Foot Health is the Gateway to Improved Performance and Cognitive Function Jul 24, 2025

Show notes

Want to know the real deal about fixing feet and unlocking performance? Join renowned functional podiatrist Dr. Emily Splichal as we dive into barefoot living, foot health myths, and how your feet can impact everything from athletic performance to daily movement.

In this episode of The Ready State podcast, Kelly and Juliet Starrett explore why foot strength and sensory stimulation are game-changers for balance, posture, and long-term health. Discover simple exercises, the truth about orthotics, and how to optimize your foot function for better performance at any age. Whether you're an athlete, a parent, or just curious about barefooting, this conversation will change how you think about your feet. Don't miss it!

✅ What You'll Learn in This Episode

Why your feet are the gateway to brain-body performance
How modern shoes are de-training your nervous system
The difference between flat feet and weak feet
What barefoot stimulation does for balance, posture, and gait
Why slippers and house shoes are secretly ruining your feet
The five-minute foot protocol Dr. Emily recommends to everyone
How sensory stacking supercharges rehab and performance
Why your glutes, diaphragm, pelvic floor, and feet are one system
The truth about barefoot hygiene (hint: your feet are cleaner than your hands)

Key Highlights:

00:00 - Intro

00:50 - Laird Superfood

03:14 - Foot Obsession: Why It Matters

07:36 - Becoming a Functional Podiatrist

11:27 - Naboso Technology

17:45 - Understanding Neuroplasticity

20:25 - Sensory Stacking Explained

21:54 - Issues with Maximalist Shoes

25:25 - Use Cases for Maximalist Shoes

28:45 - Foot Care Essentials

32:43 - LMNT Overview

35:20 - Daily Foot Program Benefits

38:31 - Flat Feet and Orthotics Discussion

46:10 - Dr. Emily's New Book: Sensory Sapiens Insights

48:20 - Benefits of Being Barefoot

49:55 - Disease Risks of Barefoot Walking

55:15 - Dosing Barefoot Training

57:30 - Naboso Footbed Features

60:47 - Kids' Foot Health

66:21 - Offense vs Defense in Foot Health

68:00 - Understanding ACL Tears

71:45 - Resources for ACL Recovery

74:00 - Finding Dr. Emily

Sponsors

This episode of The Ready State Podcast is brought to you by Laird Superfood, Momentous, and LMNT.

Dr. Sara Reardon: Fixing Pelvic Floor Dysfunction - Expert Advice from The Vagina Whisperer Jul 10, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of The Ready State Podcast, Dr Sara Reardon sits down with Kelly and Juliet Starrett to break the silence around leaking, pelvic pain, painful sex, and what every woman should know about their body — but probably wasn’t taught.

Join Dr. Sara Reardon, aka "The Vagina Whisperer," as she shares groundbreaking insights from her book Floored about pelvic floor health at every age and stage. Discover the real causes behind pelvic floor dysfunction, practical tips to strengthen and care for your pelvic floor, and how to advocate for better medical support. Whether you're navigating perimenopause, postpartum recovery, or just curious about improving your pelvic health, this episode is packed with expert advice and actionable solutions. Don't miss it—empower yourself with the knowledge every woman deserves!

What You'll Learn in This Episode

Why pelvic floor dysfunction is a silent epidemic
How to tell what’s “common” vs. what’s actually “normal”
What postpartum care should look like
The simple things you can do every day to improve pelvic floor health
How posture, breathing, and movement all connect to pelvic health
Why men should care about pelvic floor health too

Sponsors

This episode of The Ready State Podcast is brought to you by Laird Superfood, The World As You'll Know It podcast, Momentous, and LMNT.

Sue Norman: Racing Rapids, Becoming an Unexpected Parent at 56, & Risking It All Jun 26, 2025

Show notes

Sue Norman’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. From her roots as a world-class whitewater athlete and U.S. National Champion to her time in the military and her inspiring decision to become a mom at 56, Sue’s life is packed with resilience, adventure, and heart.

In this episode of The Ready State Podcast, Sue shares her incredible story of navigating risk, overcoming childhood challenges, thriving in elite sports, and embracing unexpected motherhood.

Learn how she balanced a life of daring whitewater adventures, military service, and raising a child from a tough start in life. Tune in for lessons on courage, adaptability, and finding strength in the wild outdoors. Don’t miss this deeply inspiring conversation with a true legend.

What You'll Learn in This Episode

How Sue went from a chaotic childhood to becoming a world-class paddler
The unlikely Army program that launched her elite kayaking career
What it takes to lead an all-women’s rafting team through Class V rapids
How nature became her anchor during trauma, menopause, and motherhood
Why she took legal custody of her nephew at 56 — and how it changed her
What parenting a traumatized child taught her about strength, identity, and healing

Sponsors

This episode of The Ready State Podcast is brought to you by Laird Superfood, The World As You'll Know It podcast, Momentous, and LMNT.

Jay Maddock: The Profound Health Benefits of Nature Exposure In As Little As 120 Minutes Per Week Jun 12, 2025

Show notes

Are you spending 8 hours a day in front of screens? It’s time to give your brain a break with nature! Discover how just 120 minutes a week outdoors can transform your mood, boost executive function, and even improve your immune system. From walking in a local park to engaging in forest bathing, this video explores the profound mental and physical health benefits of reconnecting with the environment.

What You'll Learn in This Episode

How outdoor exposure boosts physical and mental health
The science behind 10-minute, 90-minute, and weekend doses of nature
Why hospital patients recover faster with a window view
How cities, schools, and even prisons are using green space to reduce disease
What “nature deficit disorder” is doing to kids and adults alike
How to design your life for more sun, soil, and space

Hear about groundbreaking research on nature exposure, its impact on PTSD, urban design for green spaces, and how nature prescriptions are reshaping healthcare. Tune in to learn how small doses of nature can make a big difference for your well-being!

Sponsors

This episode of The Ready State Podcast is brought to you by Laird Superfood, The World As You'll Know It podcast, Momentous, and LMNT.

Nathan Adrian: From Podium to Purpose: 8 Medals Across 3 Olympics, Cancer, and Rebuilding Identity After Sport May 29, 2025

Show notes

What happens after you win five gold medals in the Olympics?

In this episode, 5 time Olympic Gold Medalist swimmer and entrepreneur, Nathan Adrian, opens up about the pressure of elite performance, the shock of a cancer diagnosis, and what it’s like to rebuild identity after sport.

He’s an Olympic icon, but also a husband, father, and now co-founder of a company that helps young athletes learn to love swimming. This isn’t just about performance — it’s about purpose, transition, and what it means to evolve.

Whether you’re chasing big goals, recovering from a setback, or trying to figure out what comes next — this episode hits home.

What You'll Learn in This Episode

How Nathan trained for Olympic success (and mental longevity)
What .01 seconds taught him about belief and pressure
Why missing the 2008 team became his breakthrough
How cancer changed his priorities and sense of identity
The mindset shifts required to move beyond the Olympics and elite sport
Why fun, community, and mentorship are the next frontier

Sponsors

This episode of The Ready State Podcast is brought to you by Laird Superfood, The World As You'll Know It podcast, Momentous, and LMNT.

Katy Bowman & Dr. Diana Hill: Recognizing and Eliminating Barriers to Movement May 15, 2025

Show notes

Most people don’t struggle with movement — they struggle with the mindset around movement.

In this episode, psychologist Diana Hill and biomechanist Katy Bowman break down the real reasons so many of us stay stuck in sedentary loops. It’s not laziness. It’s not time. It’s our mental patterns:

“If I can’t do a full 45-minute workout… why bother doing anything at all?”

This is the all-or-nothing trap. And it’s silently keeping millions of people from ever getting started. In this conversation, you’ll learn how to identify your personal barriers to movement, shift the way you think about progress, and create a more flexible, self-compassionate relationship with your body.

Whether you’re a parent, a busy professional, or someone trying to reclaim your health — this episode will help you stop waiting for the “perfect” workout and start making every bit of movement count.

What You'll Learn in This Episode

Why rigid beliefs around exercise are blocking your health
How psychological flexibility aids in eliminating barriers to movement
Why “not enough time” is a myth that keeps you stuck
How to break free from perfectionist, all-or-nothing thinking
How to build a lifestyle where movement happens naturally
Tools from ACT (Acceptance & Commitment Therapy) that actually work

Danny Matta: How Cash-Based Care Unlocks Better Outcomes and Why the Traditional Medical Model Fails Patients and Practitioners May 01, 2025

Show notes