Alex Fergus - Light Therapy Insiders

Alex Fergus

 My name is Alex Fergus, and I'm a health and technology geek providing in-depth, independent product reviews on the latest red light therapy devices. With over seven years of experience studying light therapy and having used and tested dozens of hundreds of light therapy products, you can be sure that I'll have a video to help you with your educational or product-buying needs. Test, review, compare, and study all things Red Light Therapy.Whether you're seeking out the best Red Light Body Panel or an LED Mask or simply trying to learn more about the complexities of Red Light, my YouTube channel has videos for you.   https://www.youtube.com/@AlexFergusdotcom  I hope you enjoy and find my podcasts beneficial!Alex

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  1. EPISODE 1

    Red Light Therapy Wavelengths & Penetration

    Send us Fan Mail How deep does red light therapy actually penetrate — and are we all underdosing? In this episode, I’m joined by Tom Kerber from SunPowerLED, a veteran electronics designer with decades of experience in high-power LED systems and photobiomodulation. We break down the real-world physics of wavelength, power density, treatment area, and heat — and why many “rules” around dosing may be based on laser research that doesn’t translate well to LEDs. If you’ve ever wondered whether 660 vs 810 vs 1050 nm truly matters (and why bigger treatment areas often drive better results), this is the deep technical dive you’ve been waiting for. Show Notes In this technical episode of the Light Therapy Insiders Podcast, I interview Tom Kerber, founder of SunPowerLED, about the most misunderstood topic in photobiomodulation: dosing and penetration. Tom shares his decades of experimentation, including tissue-penetration tests using stacked pork tissue, comparisons between lasers and LEDs, and the reasons the treatment area can significantly affect the amount of light reaching deeper structures. We also discuss thermal safety, near-infrared versus far-infrared penetration, and why higher doses may still be safe with LEDs when heat is adequately managed. Key Topics             Tom’s background in high-power electronics + photodynamic therapy shapes his approach to PBM dosing and penetration.Lasers travel straight in the air, but once they hit tissue, they scatter — penetration becomes a “bubble,” not a straight beam.Wavelength matters: green barely penetrates, red penetrates more, and near-infrared (810–1050 nm) penetrates deepest.Treatment area impacts depth: larger illuminated regions (at the same power density) can drive more light through tissue, up to a limit.Distance reduces deep benefits — standing far from a panel may help the skin, but deep tissue requires sufficient power density, area, and wavelength.Heat risk depends on wavelength, circulation, and skin tone — near-infrared spreads energy deeper and is often better tolerated.Near-infrared penetrates; far-infrared (>1350 nm) primarily heats the surface (still useful, but not deep penetration).LED dosing may plateau rather than decline — Tom argues that laser hot spots primarily drive the classic biphasic curve.Tom shares real-world examples (ribs, shoulder, lungs) where higher/longer LED exposure appeared to support recovery.A “4 J/cm² max” dosing limit can be misleading because many studies are from animal models and don’t scale well to human joints.  Thanks for listening! Disclaimer: Information shared is not medical advice. For the latest discounts, please visit my website:  https://www.lighttherapyinsiders.com/red-light-therapy-discount-codes-deals-recommendations/ ·       Check out my YouTube Channel for product reviews and all things red light therapy!  ·       Check out my website for research articles, reviews, and more on light therapy  ·       Join my Facebook group with almost 10K members; it's an interactive group sharing their experiences. ·       Follow us on Instagram and TikTok.

    1h 32m

  2. EPISODE 2

    Kineon Move Plus 2.0 Big Upgrade Explained

    Send us Fan Mail Alex sits down with Tom Sanderson, co-founder of Kineon, to talk through what’s new at the company — including the upcoming Move Plus 2.0, Kineon’s new modular roadmap (including Heel), and why the future of red light therapy may be heading toward app control, smarter targeting, and sensor-driven feedback. Tom also shares Kineon’s broader vision for 2026 and beyond, including early prototypes of gut-focused wearables and potential technologies that could eventually help quantify changes in the body before and after a session.  Show Notes In this conversation, Alex and Tom cover: Kineon’s updated branding + internal restructuring, with a bigger focus on long-term product strategy and science-backed designThe upcoming Move Plus 2.0 redesign, including a new LED display, improved usability, and updated casingA new quick-release strap system, plus an improved travel case and accessories, designed to improve fit and comfortHow Kineon is thinking about modular red light therapy devices, including early prototypes of their upcoming Heel lineWhy customer feedback (like beeping volume and haptic intensity) is shaping the next generation of wearable devicesA preview of future use cases, including gut-focused wraps, dentistry/oral pain applications, and women’s health-focused versionsWhere Kineon is heading next with app integration, sensor feedback, and a longer-term roadmap toward smarter “closed loop” therapyBroader trends in the industry — including the move toward more targeted treatment, better dosing education, and more intelligent device designThanks for listening! Disclaimer: Information shared is not medical advice. For the latest discounts, please visit my website:  https://www.lighttherapyinsiders.com/red-light-therapy-discount-codes-deals-recommendations/ ·       Check out my YouTube Channel for product reviews and all things red light therapy!  ·       Check out my website for research articles, reviews, and more on light therapy  ·       Join my Facebook group with almost 10K members; it's an interactive group sharing their experiences. ·       Follow us on Instagram and TikTok.

    27 min

  3. EPISODE 3

    Red Light Therapy For Cognitive Performance EXCITING New Science

    Send us Fan Mail 🎙️ Episode Overview In this episode of Alex Fergus – Light Therapy Insiders, Bart Wolbers sits down with Sarah Turner, neuroscientist and founder of SARAH Thrive, to explore how red and near‑infrared light therapy can be used not just to manage symptoms—but to elevate cognition, gut health, mood, and overall human potential. Rather than focusing solely on illness, Sarah makes a compelling case for thriving, discussing how strengthening mitochondria, reducing inflammation, and supporting the gut–brain axis may unlock higher levels of brain performance and resilience. 🔑 Key Topics Discussed Thriving vs. Surviving Why modern health culture sets the bar too low—and how light therapy may help people move beyond “symptom‑free” toward peak cognitive and emotional performance. Sarah Turner’s Background From pharmaceutical drug‑delivery devices to nutritional medicine, clinical neuroscience, and biohacking—and why photobiomodulation sits at the intersection of orthodox and alternative medicine. The SARAH System Explained (Brain + Gut) An overview of the SARAH headband and gut panel, including: Targeting the prefrontal cortex and cerebellumWhy physical contact and pressure matter for brain light deliveryVisible red + near‑infrared wavelengths (630, 850, 940, 1070 nm)Pulsing Frequencies & Brain States How different pulse rates may influence calm, focus, memory, and meditation: 7.8 Hz (alpha / Schumann resonance)40 Hz (gamma, cognition & neurodegeneration research)100 Hz (meditation and altered states)Real‑World Outcomes & User Feedback Insights from early users, including improvements in: Sleep quality and deep sleep percentageBrain fog, mood, and resilienceDigestive comfort and gut healthThe Gut–Brain Connection Why Sarah calls the gut the “first brain,” including: Neurotransmitter production in the gutVagus nerve signalingInflammation, microbiome health, and cognitionEmerging science of photobiomics (light + bacteria)How Red Light May Enhance Cognition Key proposed mechanisms: Reduced neuroinflammationIncreased blood flow via nitric oxide releaseHigher ATP production in neuronsImproved waste clearance and glymphatic drainage during sleepSleep, HRV & Biohacker Metrics What users tracking Oura Ring, WHOOP, Apple Health, and Garmin data are seeing—including temporary HRV dips followed by long‑term gains. Consistency, Dosing & Hormetic Stress Why light therapy works more like exercise than m Thanks for listening! Disclaimer: Information shared is not medical advice. For the latest discounts, please visit my website:  https://www.lighttherapyinsiders.com/red-light-therapy-discount-codes-deals-recommendations/ ·       Check out my YouTube Channel for product reviews and all things red light therapy!  ·       Check out my website for research articles, reviews, and more on light therapy  ·       Join my Facebook group with almost 10K members; it's an interactive group sharing their experiences. ·       Follow us on Instagram and TikTok.

    59 min

  4. EPISODE 4

    Common Red Light Therapy MYTHS Debunked: New Science

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Light Therapy Insiders, Ari joins me, Bart Wolbers, to unpack how red and near-infrared light interact with human biology, why mitochondria are central to health and aging, and where common assumptions about dosing, heat, and device performance break down. Ari is the author of The Ultimate Guide to Red Light Therapy, recently released in a fully revised and expanded edition co-authored with Dr. Michael Hamblin—one of the most cited photobiomodulation researchers in the world. This conversation goes well beyond surface-level benefits and dives into mechanisms, controversies, and why humility matters in a field that’s still evolving. Key Topics Discussed Ari Whitten’s journey into red light therapy From competitive athletics and bodybuilding to chronic fatigue after Epstein–Barr virus infection, Ari explains how his focus shifted toward energy metabolism and mitochondrial health—and why that led him to light biology. Why mitochondria are central to health and aging We explore how modern research reframes mitochondria as more than “cellular powerhouses,” highlighting their role in immune function, brain health, stress responses, and biological aging. Red and near-infrared light in an evolutionary context Humans evolved under the sun, and different wavelengths influence biology in distinct ways—circadian rhythm signaling, vitamin D synthesis, nitric oxide production, heat effects, and more. Red and near-infrared light stand out because human tissue is unusually transparent to these wavelengths. Moving beyond the cytochrome c oxidase story Once considered the primary mechanism of photobiomodulation, cytochrome c oxidase is now understood as just one piece of a larger puzzle that includes gene expression, growth factors, immune signaling, and systemic effects. Heat, dosing, and the biggest PBM controversies We break down the debate around whether photobiomodulation must be “non-thermal,” why mild tissue warming is often unavoidable, and where the real danger thresholds likely sit. Systemic vs localized effects Ari explains why red light therapy doesn’t always need to be applied directly to a target tissue to produce benefits—and how blood, immune, and signaling pathways may play a larger role than many people assume. Pods vs panels: Is the price difference justified? We discuss whether full-body red-light pods offer advantages over large-panel setups—and why the lack of direct comparative studies leaves this question open. Industry transparency and misleading specs A strong call for third-party testing, honest irradiance data, and higher standards in an industry where exaggerated claims remain co Thanks for listening! Disclaimer: Information shared is not medical advice. For the latest discounts, please visit my website:  https://www.lighttherapyinsiders.com/red-light-therapy-discount-codes-deals-recommendations/ ·       Check out my YouTube Channel for product reviews and all things red light therapy!  ·       Check out my website for research articles, reviews, and more on light therapy  ·       Join my Facebook group with almost 10K members; it's an interactive group sharing their experiences. ·       Follow us on Instagram and TikTok.

    1h 14m

  5. EPISODE 5

    THIS Device Counters MCI/Alzheimer - Here’s The Data

    Send us Fan Mail Photobiomodulation for the brain is getting serious scientific attention, especially for mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and early Alzheimer’s risk. In this episode of Light Therapy Insiders, Bart Wolbers speaks with Dr. Neda Rashini, a physician-scientist focused on neurodegenerative research, about transcranial photobiomodulation, pilot trial results, mitochondrial biomarkers, inflammation, brain connectivity, and why this field may become an important part of future brain-health treatment plans. Show Notes In this episode, Dr. Neda Rashini explains how she went from being skeptical of photobiomodulation to leading clinical research on its use in people with mild cognitive impairment. The conversation covers why MCI matters, how placebo-controlled PBM trials are designed, what biomarkers were measured, and which outcomes looked promising in her pilot trial. They also discuss side effects, responder variability, and why bigger studies are still needed before stronger conclusions can be made. Key Topics Why Dr. Neda Rashini became interested in transcranial photobiomodulation Although photobiomodulation has been around for decades, it has only recently gained traction in neuroscience research. Dr. Neda Rashini shares how her initial skepticism led her to investigate whether the biological claims behind PBM could actually be measured in clinical research. Why mild cognitive impairment matters MCI is often one of the earliest diagnosable stages before Alzheimer’s dementia develops. Dr. Neda Rashini explains why this stage may be a better window for intervention than later-stage disease, when neuronal loss may already be too advanced. How the pilot trial was designed The study compared an active transcranial photobiomodulation device against a sham device in people with MCI. Participants used what appeared to be the same headset, but only the active group received the full PBM treatment. The biomarkers researchers measured The trial looked beyond cognition alone. Dr. Neda Rashini’s team assessed mitochondrial biomarkers, inflammatory markers, functional brain connectivity, brain metabolites, and cognitive outcomes to better understand possible mechanisms. What improved in the pilot study The active group showed improved general cognition and recognition memory compared with the sham group. Researchers also observed changes in the lactate-to-pyruvate ratio, a reduction in IL-6 levels, and increased functional connectivity within the default mode network. What did not significantly change Not every marker moved. Some inflammation markers and neurodegeneration markers did not show significant differences, which Dr. Na says i Thanks for listening! Disclaimer: Information shared is not medical advice. For the latest discounts, please visit my website:  https://www.lighttherapyinsiders.com/red-light-therapy-discount-codes-deals-recommendations/ ·       Check out my YouTube Channel for product reviews and all things red light therapy!  ·       Check out my website for research articles, reviews, and more on light therapy  ·       Join my Facebook group with almost 10K members; it's an interactive group sharing their experiences. ·       Follow us on Instagram and TikTok.

    1h 1m

  6. EPISODE 6

    Red Light Therapy Complete Science-Based Course

    Send us Fan Mail Light therapy has moved from alternative wellness into mainstream research, with thousands of studies now published. This course breaks down the science behind light therapy and shows you how to use different wavelengths safely and effectively in real-world settings. Welcome to the Light Therapy Course. This short introduction explains what the course covers, how to use it, and what you can realistically expect from light therapy. My name is Bart Wolbers from Light Therapy Insiders, and I’ll be guiding you through the science and practical application of light therapy throughout this course.    Please sign up here to be notified when new course material is released. Some content cannot be posted publicly, but subscribers will receive an email when it becomes available. Thanks for listening! Disclaimer: Information shared is not medical advice. For the latest discounts, please visit my website:  https://www.lighttherapyinsiders.com/red-light-therapy-discount-codes-deals-recommendations/ ·       Check out my YouTube Channel for product reviews and all things red light therapy!  ·       Check out my website for research articles, reviews, and more on light therapy  ·       Join my Facebook group with almost 10K members; it's an interactive group sharing their experiences. ·       Follow us on Instagram and TikTok.

    14 min

  7. EPISODE 7

    Why Red Light Therapy Works (3 Core Mechanisms)- Course.

    Send us Fan Mail Red light therapy isn’t magic, but understanding how it works can change how you use it. In this science-focused episode, Bart explains the core mechanisms behind red light therapy and why understanding the “how and why” is crucial for achieving real-world results. This video explores the three primary mechanisms of photobiomodulation supported by current research, including mitochondrial activation, growth factor stimulation, and modulation of cell membrane ion channels. You’ll learn why researchers don’t fully agree on everything yet, why different tissues respond differently to light, and how mechanisms help explain why red light works well for some conditions — and less so for others. This episode is part of a free, science-driven red light therapy course designed to help you understand the foundations, cut through hype, and apply light therapy more intelligently over time. Edit: Also SOME credit to Ari Whitten & Prof Arany's interviews on this topic for inspiration! Please sign up here to be notified when new course material is released. Some content cannot be posted publicly, but subscribers will receive an email when it becomes available. Thanks for listening! Disclaimer: Information shared is not medical advice. For the latest discounts, please visit my website:  https://www.lighttherapyinsiders.com/red-light-therapy-discount-codes-deals-recommendations/ ·       Check out my YouTube Channel for product reviews and all things red light therapy!  ·       Check out my website for research articles, reviews, and more on light therapy  ·       Join my Facebook group with almost 10K members; it's an interactive group sharing their experiences. ·       Follow us on Instagram and TikTok.

    21 min

  8. EPISODE 8

    Is Red Light Therapy Safe For Eyes SURPRISING Science!.

    Send us Fan Mail Worried that red light therapy could damage your eyes? In this video, Bart Wolbers breaks down the real science behind red + near-infrared light and eye safety, including a conservative protocol (around 40–50 mW/cm²) and why that dose is tiny compared to what humans are exposed to outdoors. He also covers where blue light and UV fit in, what “safe exposure” really means, and practical tips if you’re using panels, tabletop devices, or handheld units near your face. He also explains why more isn’t better, why too little can be a problem, and exactly how he arrived at my 40–50 mW/cm² eye protocol—a tiny dose compared to daily sunlight exposure, yet effective in studies. Thanks for listening! Disclaimer: Information shared is not medical advice. For the latest discounts, please visit my website:  https://www.lighttherapyinsiders.com/red-light-therapy-discount-codes-deals-recommendations/ ·       Check out my YouTube Channel for product reviews and all things red light therapy!  ·       Check out my website for research articles, reviews, and more on light therapy  ·       Join my Facebook group with almost 10K members; it's an interactive group sharing their experiences. ·       Follow us on Instagram and TikTok.

    27 min

  9. EPISODE 9

    Neuronic Helmet Science: 3 NEW Groundbreaking Studies

    Send us Fan Mail Brain photobiomodulation is rapidly evolving from early-stage curiosity into a serious area of research. In this interview, Bart Wolbers speaks with Liam Pingree and Dr. Ramona von Leden to explore how light therapy is being used to improve cognitive function, support brain health, and potentially impact neurodegeneration. Show Notes This episode breaks down the current state of brain photobiomodulation, including new research on memory, attention, anxiety, and depression. We also explore why wavelength selection matters, how devices are evolving, and what the future holds for this fast-growing field. Key Topics Cognitive Benefits: Memory, Attention & Mood Recent studies show improvements in: Attention and focusMemory and processing speedMood and anxiety levelsThere are also early signals suggesting potential effects on neurodegeneration markers, making this a key area of interest. Why Dosage & Consistency Matter One of the biggest challenges in the field is variability: Different wavelengthsDifferent power outputsDifferent protocolsStandardizing these variables will be critical for future clinical adoption. Key Study Insights Several early studies show promising results: Improvements in brain fog and processing speedBetter attention and reduced anxietyPositive changes in depression and sleepWhile many studies are small, they serve as important proof of concept for larger trials. 1070nm Light & Deep Brain Penetration A major focus of this discussion is the 1070nm wavelength: Deeper penetration into brain tissueTargets areas like the hippocampusPotential impact on neuroinflammationDifferent wavelengths serve different purposes depending on the target area. Helmet vs Whole-Body Light Therapy Whole-body therapy offers systemic effectsTargeted brain devices are more practical and efficientFor cognitive outcomes, localized brain treatment may be sufficient. Neurofeedback & Personalization Combining light therapy with QEEG allows: Targeted treatment of specific brain regionsCustomized protocolsPotentially faster resultsThis highlights the growing trend toward personalized brain optimization. The Role of Data & AI With thousands of users generating data: Protocols can be refined fasterPatterns in response can be identifiedAI may help optimize treatmentsUser data is be Thanks for listening! Disclaimer: Information shared is not medical advice. For the latest discounts, please visit my website:  https://www.lighttherapyinsiders.com/red-light-therapy-discount-codes-deals-recommendations/ ·       Check out my YouTube Channel for product reviews and all things red light therapy!  ·       Check out my website for research articles, reviews, and more on light therapy  ·       Join my Facebook group with almost 10K members; it's an interactive group sharing their experiences. ·       Follow us on Instagram and TikTok.

    57 min

  10. EPISODE 9

    Red Light Therapy for Exercise Performance 2X Your Gains- Course

    Send us Fan Mail Red light therapy can be a real performance tool — not just something you do for “recovery.” This video breaks down what the latest research on exercise performance says about muscle endurance, strength, fatigue, inflammation, and VO₂ max. The key takeaway is simple: timing matters. Most of the best results show up when red light therapy is used before your workout (often a few hours beforehand), and current evidence still points toward local treatment (targeting the muscle you’re about to train) over full-body sessions for measurable performance outcomes. Interestingly, full-body setups may still help sleep quality, which can indirectly support training and recovery over time. Bart also explains why some results look mixed (especially for running), why older laser-based protocols don’t always translate cleanly to consumer LED devices, and how to choose the right device and dosing approach for the muscle group you’re training. This episode is part of a free, science-driven red light therapy course designed to help you understand the foundations, cut through hype, and apply light therapy more intelligently over time. Please sign up here to be notified when new course material is released. Some content cannot be posted publicly, but subscribers will receive an email when it becomes available. Thanks for listening! Disclaimer: Information shared is not medical advice. For the latest discounts, please visit my website:  https://www.lighttherapyinsiders.com/red-light-therapy-discount-codes-deals-recommendations/ ·       Check out my YouTube Channel for product reviews and all things red light therapy!  ·       Check out my website for research articles, reviews, and more on light therapy  ·       Join my Facebook group with almost 10K members; it's an interactive group sharing their experiences. ·       Follow us on Instagram and TikTok.

    31 min

  11. EPISODE 11

    Red Light Therapy For Fat Loss Lose 4-6 Midsection Inches - Course

    Send us Fan Mail Can red light actually help reduce belly fat, or is it just another fitness myth? In this episode, Bart Wolbers breaks down what the science actually says about red and near-infrared light for fat loss. We look at human and animal studies, changes in waist and hip circumference, why weight often stays the same, and how red light may influence fat mobilization without traditional dieting. You’ll learn why most studies show body recomposition rather than scale weight loss, why red wavelengths seem to outperform near-infrared for this goal, and how red light may fit into a broader fat-loss framework alongside exercise, sleep, circadian rhythm, and metabolic health. This episode is part of a free, science-based red light therapy course designed to help you use light therapy more effectively without hype, gimmicks, or unrealistic promises. Please sign up here to be notified when new course material is released. Some content cannot be posted publicly, but subscribers will receive an email when it becomes available. Thanks for listening! Disclaimer: Information shared is not medical advice. For the latest discounts, please visit my website:  https://www.lighttherapyinsiders.com/red-light-therapy-discount-codes-deals-recommendations/ ·       Check out my YouTube Channel for product reviews and all things red light therapy!  ·       Check out my website for research articles, reviews, and more on light therapy  ·       Join my Facebook group with almost 10K members; it's an interactive group sharing their experiences. ·       Follow us on Instagram and TikTok.

    24 min
See All Season 3 (11)

About

 My name is Alex Fergus, and I'm a health and technology geek providing in-depth, independent product reviews on the latest red light therapy devices. With over seven years of experience studying light therapy and having used and tested dozens of hundreds of light therapy products, you can be sure that I'll have a video to help you with your educational or product-buying needs. Test, review, compare, and study all things Red Light Therapy.Whether you're seeking out the best Red Light Body Panel or an LED Mask or simply trying to learn more about the complexities of Red Light, my YouTube channel has videos for you.   https://www.youtube.com/@AlexFergusdotcom  I hope you enjoy and find my podcasts beneficial!Alex

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