Mind Muscle with Simon de Veer Simon de Veer

Have you ever considered that your path to a healthier lifestyle could begin with the simple step of tracking only your processed food intake? Or that embracing a bit of friction might be exactly what you need to escape the clutches of social media's endless scroll? This episode of Mind Muscle with Simon Devere ventures into these innovative strategies, offering a fresh perspective on cultivating better habits. We delve into philosopher Byung-Chul Han's insights on the pitfalls of our achievement-obsessed culture, and how this drive for success might be secretly sabotaging our joy in sports and exercise.

It's time to confront the uncomfortable truth: the mantra 'you can be anything you want to be' comes with its own set of psychological baggage. We explore the dark side of positive freedom, wading through the pressures of limitless potential and the inner turmoil it can wreak. I discuss how this insatiable quest for personal achievement twists into a form of self-exploitation, as Han so eloquently puts it, and reflect upon the implications for our relationship with sports, fitness, and competition. This conversation is a must-hear for anyone who's felt the sting of burnout or questioned the value of their endeavors when the applause fades.

In a world fixated on metrics and milestones, I advocate for a return to the roots of well-being—embracing the full human experience, including those negative emotions we often try to suppress. We'll consider the rejuvenating power of stillness and the untapped creative potential that lies in the moments we're not 'producing.' Wrapping up, I share insights on cultivating a diverse range of physical activities for a more fulfilled, balanced life, and the importance of self-reflection. Together, let's redefine what it means to be fit, not just in body, but in mind and spirit as well. Join me for a transformative journey that promises to shake up your approach to health and happiness.
Producer: Thor Benander
Editor: Luke Morey
Intro Theme: Ajax Benander
Intro: Timothy Durant

For more, visit Simon at The Antagonist

Ever wondered if the latest weight-loss fad on social media could be your golden ticket to dropping pounds? We're dissecting the Oat-Zempic craze and giving you the real scoop on whether it's a dietary dream or just another flash in the pan. And for those riding the fitness merry-go-round, we're offering fresh insights into hybrid training's comeback – is this the ultimate workout blend you've been searching for? Plus, we're tackling the 'dad bod' debate head-on, with a candid chat about why elite athletes like Travis Kelce don't need to sport magazine-cover muscles to dominate their sport.

As your trusty guide through the maze of health trends, I'm spilling my personal whole foods playbook – sharing how nuts, seeds, and avocados aren't just tasty add-ons but powerhouse ingredients for peak nutrition. We'll crack the code on using dietary fats to boost nutrient absorption and how complex carbs are the unsung heroes of long-lasting energy. Dining out tonight? Don't let restaurant bread be your downfall; I've got tasty strategies to enjoy it without the guilt. Let's cut through the diet dogma and celebrate the wholesome, simple goodness of real food – your body will thank you.

Join me as we take a step back to appreciate the artistry of the athletically diverse – those who dodge the specialization trap and thrive across multiple physical disciplines. From ancient warriors to modern-day CrossFitters, we explore the rich history of hybrid training and what it can teach us about our own fitness journeys. Whether you're a sports specialist, a general fitness enthusiast, or just looking to shake up your routine, this episode promises a compelling blend of historical insights, personal anecdotes, and practical takeaways to fuel your next workout.
Producer: Thor Benander
Editor: Luke Morey
Intro Theme: Ajax Benander
Intro: Timothy Durant

For more, visit Simon at The Antagonist

Embark on a journey of discernment as I, Simon DeVere, dissect the widespread health and fitness ideologies of Andrew Huberman, renowned neuroscientist and host of the Huberman Lab podcast. While the recent exposé on his personal life has sparked much chatter, our spotlight today shines unwaveringly on the influence of his teachings in the wellness realm. Discover the depths of Andrew's academic prowess and the profound impact of his protocols that now resonate in everyday health conversations, from academic corridors to the buzzing streets of Venice Beach. Together with guest Robert Lustig, we delve into the heart of the matter, separating nutritional facts from fiction, and examining the intricate relationship between scientific evidence, societal health beliefs, and the ever-evolving anti-vaccine discourse.

Today's discussion steers into the murky waters of nutritional supplements and their promotion amidst the fitness community. With a critical eye, I examine the potential biases introduced by sponsorship deals and the implications for the health guidance distributed to Huberman's audience. We explore the controversial alignment of processed supplements alongside anti-processed food narratives and the possible discrepancies that arise. As we wade through these complexities, we'll confront the misuse of scientific credibility in marketing, the challenges of navigating the supplement industry, and the broader sociopolitical shifts affecting public health perspectives.

To round off our conversation, I reveal my personal reflections on Andrew Huberman's content, acknowledging the areas where admiration meets critique. I invite you to join this ongoing dialogue, recognizing the necessity for continued learning and growth—both mental and physical—in our collective pursuit of wellness. Together, let's forge a path that prioritizes foundational health practices and cultivates a discerning mindset towards the health advice we encounter in the digital age.
Producer: Thor Benander
Editor: Luke Morey
Intro Theme: Ajax Benander
Intro: Timothy Durant

For more, visit Simon at The Antagonist

Discover the nuances of health and fitness as I, Simon DeVere, guide you through the latest Mind Muscle journey. Could intermittent fasting be a double-edged sword, with potential cardiovascular risks lurking behind its popularity? We sift through a recent American Heart Association study to bring you the full picture, balancing scientific data with personal stories. And don't worry, we're not here to preach; instead, we unpack the research, offering a well-rounded view that respects the unique health landscapes we all navigate. Plus, I'll share a friend's tale that exemplifies the importance of considering individual contexts when evaluating diet strategies.

Lifting weights isn't just about building muscle—it's a powerful ally against depression. In our thoughtful discussion, learn how adjusting the knobs of exercise volume can fine-tune your mental health. I'll share insights from my own program design, highlighting the journey from a minimal effective dose to a regimen that fully harnesses the mood-boosting benefits of strength training. But it's not all about lifting spirits; we also explore how higher training volumes can help overcome muscle growth plateaus, especially pertinent for mature fitness enthusiasts.

Wrap your mind around the tantalizing prospects of AI's role in personal fitness regimes. I recount my foray into using ChatGPT to tailor a strength program, illuminating the broader implications of AI in professional settings. Alongside our tech talk, we explore 'information fasting' as an antidote to the deluge of data we face daily. By the end of this episode, you'll see how intertwining intellectual and physical growth is vital for achieving peak fitness levels. So, stay tuned, and let's elevate our understanding—and our deadlifts—together.
Producer: Thor Benander
Editor: Luke Morey
Intro Theme: Ajax Benander
Intro: Timothy Durant

For more, visit Simon at The Antagonist

Imagine the power of a single voice influencing your health decisions—this is the world we navigate when Oprah Winfrey speaks on wellness. Weight loss, a subject close to the hearts of many, including my wife, gains a new dimension through Oprah's lens. In the latest special, her discussion on weight loss medications ripples through the public consciousness, bringing both inspiration and a hefty dose of skepticism. As a fitness professional, I've seen the fallout of celebrity-endorsed health advice, and this episode peels back the layers on the good, the bad, and the questionable.

Celebrity clout in healthcare is a minefield, with TV icons like Dr. Phil and Dr. Oz guiding viewers through a maze of pseudo-scientific advice that often leads to dead ends. We break down the precarious pedestal we've placed these personalities on, examining their endorsements and the unsettling traction they gain, such as the anti-vax movement's rise to infamy. Through anecdotes and expert insights, we scrutinize the tangled web woven by fame and health, urging a path of discernment amidst a sea of influential but potentially misleading wellness narratives.

At the core of this discussion is the human struggle with willpower and the notion of obesity as a disease—a dichotomy that pervades our collective mindset. We share intimate stories of personal battles with temptation and the societal tug-of-war between self-acceptance and the pursuit of health. Reflecting on Oprah's own journey, we ponder the role of values and the strange comfort found in the judgment of strangers. This episode is an invitation to tread thoughtfully through the landscape of wellness, armed not with the latest fad, but with the integrity of informed choice.
Producer: Thor Benander
Editor: Luke Morey
Intro Theme: Ajax Benander
Intro: Timothy Durant

For more, visit Simon at The Antagonist

Time's ticking on daylight saving debates, and we're here to unravel the complexities of this contentious practice. Discover the unexpected history and vested interests of clock-changing in our latest Mind Muscle episode. It's not the farmers clamoring for that extra hour of daylight, contrary to popular belief - so who benefits, and at what cost? We delve into the origins of this century-old tradition, the economics of evening light, and the surprising advocates for and against the time switch. From golfers to retailers, the players in this game of hours might just surprise you.

Is the extra sunlight worth the lost sleep? We're examining the pros and cons of making daylight saving time a permanent fixture. Hear how the bipartisan push for endless summer evenings stacks up against the scientific preference for standard time—with our health and circadian rhythms hanging in the balance. The debate is laden with unexpected allies and opponents, from ski resorts to schools, and we're breaking down their arguments to see where the hands of the clock should rightfully point.

Join us as we ponder the broader implications of our time-keeping traditions and how they resonate through our daily routines. The conversation doesn't stop at whether we should abandon clock changes; it extends to reimagining our societal structures. Could we be on the cusp of a synchronization with the sun that reshapes work, school, and play? Share your thoughts and experiences with us as we question, learn, and grow together in search of a harmonious future that respects both the sun's journey and our well-being.
Producer: Thor Benander
Editor: Luke Morey
Intro Theme: Ajax Benander
Intro: Timothy Durant

For more, visit Simon at The Antagonist