OFM - Why Metabolic Health Matters VESPA Power

Today we have an inspiring conversation with Andrea Moore, who shares her transformative journey from overcoming childhood challenges to becoming a successful corporate banker then tossing the corporate finance to the wind to conquer an even bigger challenge by running 5 ultramarathons, each with a distance of over two hundred miles. Andrea's story is not just about sports; it's about overcoming personal hardships, redefining life goals, and pushing the boundaries of what's physically and mentally possible to get healthier and stronger in every way. 
 
About Andrea Moore:
 
Andrea shares a glimpse into her personal life, including the challenges and triumphs of being a mother to three children and the support she receives from her dedicated crew and pacers during races. Andrea’s upbringing forged her into an achiever. Her career track evolved to her becoming a high-achieving private banker for JP Morgan Chase. Yet the traditional life of marriage, kids, and a career conquering the challenges of corporate finance left a void. After losing her mother to cancer, getting out of a bad marriage and starting over, Andrea transitioned from the bustling streets of downtown Dallas to the tranquil trails of Flagstaff, Arizona. This significant life change was spurred by her passion for running but also creating a lifestyle in pursuit of her happiness.
 
Episode Highlights:
 
Andrea's Running Evolution:Andrea details her journey into the world of ultra trail running, highlighting her progression from casual running to competing in grueling 200+ mile races.
 
The Role of Community and Team:Reflecting on the importance of support in endurance sports, Andrea credits her success to her crew, pacers, and the broader running community who have been instrumental in her journey.
 
Nutritional Strategies and Metabolic Health: A significant part of Andrea's discussion revolves around her dietary approach, particularly how she has optimized her fat metabolism to enhance performance and recovery in ultra endurance races. Starting with her first two bites of steak after being a vegetarian to learning about Vespa and OFM, Andrea shares her nutritional evolution which will fuel her big, scary challenge.
 
Personal Growth and Resilience:Andrea shares deeply personal aspects of her life, including the impact of her mother's death and how it prompted a reevaluation of her life's direction. Her story is a powerful testament to the strength required to make profound life changes.
 
**Conclusion:**
Andrea Moore's story is a compelling narrative of personal growth, strength and resilience. But as Andrea acknowledges, she is not alone;  community, friends, partners, crew and pacers all help support her relentless pursuit of one's passions no matter the odds. Whether you're an athlete, someone facing personal challenges, or simply in search of inspiration, Andrea’s journey offers valuable insights into the power of resilience and transformation. Stay tuned as we will be following up with Andrea during her quest.
 
Join us next time on the OFM podcast, where we continue to explore the interconnections of health, happiness, and personal fulfillment through the lenses of our remarkable guests.

In this episode of the OFM Podcast, Host, Peter Defty, sits down with Tito Garza to share Tito’s journey of implementing OFM for high-intensity cyclocross racing. 
 
From his humble roots in Texas, battling through personal challenges and, through overcoming these challenges, becoming a restaurant entrepreneur Garza's story is a testament to resilience, innovation, and the transformative power of metabolic health.
 
**Key Points Discussed:**
 
Introduction to Tito Garza:
Tito bares it all, from his roots growing up in Texas, how his parents struggled with alcohol, to his own struggles and how he overcame them.
Working a low paying job as a trainer in a gym and borrowing $70 from his girlfriend (who eventually became his wife) to start selling Mexican Food and on to his successful ventures in the restaurant industry. 
The importance of core relationships and having people who believe in you even when you have doubts about yourself.
 
The OFM Journey:
Garza details his journey into cycling and how he started off following the conventional high carb advice and noting the ‘unintended consequences’ of bonking, fatigue and inflammation.
Upon getting a concussion during a race Tito dove into how to reduce inflammation and fully recover, went Keto, learning, firsthand, the performance limitations of keto. This presented a conundrum; enjoy the health and lifestyle benefits of low carb but lose being competitive in cycling.
Reading about Vespa and OFM from “The Art & Science of Low Carbohydrate Performance” purchasing Vespa and signing up for the OFM Metabolic Reset.
The learning curve to dialing OFM in for Tito’s individual needs and the importance of experimentation in training.
Tito’s progression from the back of the pack on keto to winning!
The mental focus and retention of fine motor skills benefits of Vespa and OFM
Tito’s experience underscores the OFM’s adaptability across various sports, including cycling and CrossFit.

Business and Balance:
Tito opens up about the challenges of juggling a thriving business and a bustling family life with his athletic pursuits and how OFM has made achieving the balance possible.
Finding the Balance over the bifurcation to the extreme which is all to common in today’s world.
Through focusing on metabolic health Tito feels better which enables him to perform better and be better in all areas of his life, due to his stable energy levels, mood and positive outlook on life.
 
Metabolic Health Insights:
 
Peter and Tito delve into the science and philosophy behind OFM, discussing the impact of metabolic health on overall well-being, athletic performance, and life balance. 
How the OFM conceptual model allows the athlete to individualize the program to their needs, sport and lifestyle for optimal results and sustainability.
How Tito adapted OFM  to work for his personal needs.
Perfection being the enemy of the good. The impacts of chronic mental and emotional stress. How OFM mitigates this.
How OFM helps development of aerobic fast and slow twitch muscle fibers instead of anaerobic fast twitch fibers for both health and body composition. This, in essence, is building metabolic capacity at the cellular/mitochondrial level.
OFM allows plenty of sugar to work with ‘strategically’ for the performance and adaptive stress.
 
Community and Support:
The conversation highlights the importance of support systems, both in personal life and within the OFM community. 
Tito's story is a compelling example of how belief, encouragement, and shared knowledge can drive transformation.
Tito Garza's OFM/Vespa journey is a real world example of how each of us can  overcome adversity, embrace change, and discover the profound impact metabolic health has on all areas of life. Whether you're an athlete, entrepreneur, or someone curious about enhancing your well-being, this episode offers tangible insights into harnessing your body's potential to achieve “Higher Health & Peak Performan

Elite Ultramarathoner, Jeff Browning, is most often perceived as an outlier due to his extraordinary health, fitness and ability to compete at the top of the sport at the age of 52, but the truth is, Jeff has made lifestyle choices that prioritize his health rather than follow a path most people consider as ‘normal’. Truth be told, Jeff is what normal should be. Let’s dive in.
 
Jeff comes from a background that many would find surprisingly ordinary. Raised in a Midwestern farming family, Jeff's history is one not of genetic exceptionalism but of conscious lifestyle choices that have steered him away from the health issues that plagued his relatives.
 
Here are the talking points of this interview:
 
Background and Family Health History
 
Jeff comes from a Midwestern farming family, challenging the notion that his health achievements are due to special genetics.
He has a family history of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease, with both parents and siblings initially struggling with weight and health issues.
Despite these challenges, Jeff has made significant health improvements, demonstrating that genetics don't have to dictate health outcomes.
 
Diet and Lifestyle Choices:
 
Jeff witnessed the negative health impacts of the standard American diet and sedentary lifestyle on his family.
While Jeff was always physically active he was influenced by an uncle who maintained good health through regular exercise and a healthier diet. His uncle stood out among other family members because he maintained his health as he aged which left an impression upon Jeff to adopt similar habits.
Jeff’s journey to OFM was one of transitioning through various diets, including vegetarianism, before committing to the OFM in late 2015. 
Jeff & OFM’s emphasis is to mainly use whole, unprocessed foods with an emphasis animal products.
 
Limitations of Vegetarian Diet:
 
Jeff was always hungry on a vegetarian diet.
He found his body composition was drastically affected on the Vegetarian diet and this motivated him to try different animal based whole food diets.
While OFM’s dietary recommendations center around consuming the “Whole Animal” for nutritional balance, this does not mean consuming a ton of meat. In fact, because animal based foods are so nutritionally dense, the amount a person needs is surprisingly small.
 
How OFM Transformed Jeff’s Health:
 
With OFM Jeff has optimized his body to burn fat, which has helped him to continue competing at the highest level in his sport. 
In addition to avoiding the health outcomes of his family, OFM got his Candida overgrowth under control and in remission. 
OFM allows him to consume carbs on occasion and without stress to yield the health and performance benefits he enjoys without his Candida flaring up.

Exercise and Physical Activity:
 
Jeff emphasizes the importance of regular physical activity, including running, weightlifting, and outdoor sports.
His exercise regimen aligns with natural human movement patterns and contributes significantly to his overall health.
 
Environmental and Sustainable Food Production:
 
Advocates for supporting grass-fed ranches and local agriculture as more environmentally sustainable practices.
Challenges the environmental impact of monoculture farming and promotes understanding of natural systems and the importance of animal products in a balanced diet.
 
Personal Health Improvements and Insights:
 
Not only has OFM helped Jeff avoid the health issues prevalent in his family but it has kept him at the top of his sport and relatively injury free.
He emphasizes the role of nutrition to: Avoid pharmaceutical interventions 
Placing conditions like his Candida into remission without pharmacological means. (note: this is conditional. When appropriate pharmaceutical interventions are necessary to correct an acute case of a certain disease)

 
Advice on Genetics and Health:
 
Jeff and Peter make a compelling real world argument against

In this enlightening episode of the OFM Podcast, host Peter Defty explores the profound connection between metabolic health and mental well-being. Joined by distinguished guest Dr. William Sauve, a psychiatrist with a unique perspective on treatment, they delve into how optimizing fat metabolism can have a transformative impact on mental health. Dr. Sauve shares his extensive experience and innovative approaches to psychiatry, offering valuable insights into the benefits of metabolic health beyond physical performance.
 
Podcast Show Notes:
 
Introduction to the concept of optimizing fat metabolism (OFM) for enhancing both physical performance and mental health.
Dr. William Sauve's background in psychiatry and his unconventional approach to treatment, focusing on alternatives to medication.
How Dr. Sauve became interested in the intersection of metabolic health and mental health, inspired by personal experiences and professional observations.
The simple fact that most antidepressant drugs only ‘work’ roughly a third of the time they are prescribed.
Discussion on the negative effects of traditional psychiatric medications and the potential for alternative treatments, such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and S-ketamine.
Examination of metabolic syndrome's impact on mental health, highlighting the critical role of insulin resistance and inflammation.
Insights into how improving metabolic health through diet and lifestyle changes can significantly benefit mental well-being.
Personal anecdotes and case studies illustrating the positive effects of OFM on individuals' mental health and overall quality of life.
The importance of vitamin D and its connection to mental health, along with practical advice for optimizing metabolic health.
Future directions in psychiatry and mental health treatment, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach that includes metabolic health as a foundational element.
Closing thoughts on the potential for widespread improvement in mental health outcomes through the integration of metabolic health principles into treatment protocols.
 
This episode is a must-listen as it connects the dots of the intricate relationship between metabolic, physical and mental health, offering groundbreaking insights and practical advice for achieving optimal well-being through metabolic health.
 
The Science of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
 
STAR D (Sequenced Treatment Alternatives to Relieve Depression)
 
The STAR*D Trial: It Is Time to Reexamine the Clinical Beliefs That Guide the Treatment of Major Depression

In this long format podcast episode with Jeff Browning, we'll explore how Jeff stumbled upon this game-changing approach, the trials and triumphs of his journey, and how OFM can not only enhance athletic performance but also impact our overall health and wellbeing. His experiences prior to adopting OFM are typical 
Jeff, also known as "Bronco Billy," is not just an ultra-endurance athlete; he's a early adopter of the OFM protocol, which has transformed the way athletes fuel their bodies and minds for extreme endurance events. From considering quitting competitive ultrarunning due to energy swings and GI issues, to, upon making the change, winning races and continuing to run and win/podium at the elite level a decade later including premiere races like the Hardrock 100 and the Western States 100 even as Jeff enters into his fifties.  
Episode Highlights:
Jeff’s Journey from traditional high carb (60-75 gels in a 100 Miler) to OFM
Jeff's Training and Upcoming Races - Jeff talks about his current training regime in Flagstaff, preparation for the Coca Cola 250, and a winter 100-miler.
Reflections on Moab 240 and Hydration Strategies - A discussion about Jeff's experience in the Moab 240, the importance of hydration, and how he's fine-tuned his approach over the years.
Sodium Intake and Its Impact on Performance - Jeff & Peter’s insights on sodium concentration levels and its vital role in endurance events.
The Impact of OFM on Jeff's Career and Health - Jeff discusses how adopting OFM revolutionized his approach to nutrition and training, leading to improved performance and health.
Recovery - Jeff expounds on the game-changing recovery benefits of OFM (including VESPA) and how OFM has enhanced his ability to bounce back quickly from races. This is corroborated by the experiences of athletes both Jeff and  Peter work with due to the fundamental shift to fat as fuel.
Longevity: How Jeff’s longevity in sport and life has been transformed by OFM
Ketones, Glucose & Beta-Oxidation: Throughout the podcast Jeff & Peter discuss the relevance of the various metabolic pathways and their significance and relevance to performance and health.
The Future of OFM and Endurance Sports - A look at how OFM can shape the future of endurance sports and metabolic health.
Jeff's Personal Experience with OFM - Personal anecdotes and stories from Jeff on how OFM has been a game-changer in his life and career.
 
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Introduction:
In today's podcast with Peter Mortimer, we not only discuss athletic endeavors, we  deep dive into the lifestyle that enables peak performance both in sports and in life. Peter exemplifies the concept of living life to its fullest potential.  He discusses his career in the medical device industry, highlighting the unique challenges and the dynamic nature of his work schedule. In addition he discusses his very busy athletic schedule and how his metabolic capacity enables him to do both at a high level.
Episode Highlights:
Balancing Work, Family, and Ultra-Running
Peter delves into how his metabolic health and robustness aids in managing a hectic work schedule, family life, and demanding training for ultra marathons.
Insights into his family life and the mutually supportive relationship he nurtures with his partner, Cisca.
Race Highlights and Strategies
Recounting his 2023 victories and experiences in races such as Mongollon Monster 100, Man Against Horse 50, and his second overall at the 268 mile Spine Race across Northern England while suffering severe jet lag.
Peter shares his strategies for success, including his approach to nutrition and energy management during races.
The Impact of Metabolic Health on Performance and Lifestyle
A detailed discussion on how adopting OFM transformed Peter's athletic performance and overall well-being.
Peter’s personal experience transitioning to OFM, the challenges faced, and the profound benefits realized.
Coaching and Helping Others Achieve Their Best
Peter talks about his passion for coaching and helping other athletes achieve their best.
Insights into his coaching philosophy, approach, and the personalized attention he provides to his clients.
Future Plans and Aspirations
Peter shares his future race aspirations and his long-term plans involving ultra-running and coaching.
He expresses his desire to travel, explore new trails, and continuing to inspire others through his coaching and personal endeavors.
Conclusion:
Peter Mortimer's story is a testament to what can be achieved with the right mindset, commitment to one's goals, and building metabolic capacity. His journey from average runner to ultra-running champion, while managing a professional career and family life, is an inspiration to all aspiring athletes and individuals striving for balance and excellence in their lives.