Home of Healthspan

Alively
  • 5.0 (7)
  • ALTERNATIVE HEALTH
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

We profile health and wellness role models, sharing the tools, practices, and routines they use to help you live healthier, longer. Since 1950, the average lifespan has extended by 11 years, but our healthspan hasn’t kept up. We've been pursuing living longer without considering how to make those extra years vibrant and fulfilling. After all, 30 plus years of old age is a long time to spend slowly falling apart. And that's where Home of Healthspan comes in. Host Andrew McConnell interviews healthspan role models to help guide listeners through the 5 Pillars of Healthspan: Fitness Nutrition, Sleep and recovery, Stress management and Mindset, And Social connection & purpose.All so you can not only extend your years, but make them vibrantly healthy from start to finish. This is your guide to extending your healthspan, Making sure you live Alively day today, every day, for all of your days.

  1. Surviving Iraq: A Soldier's PTSD Battle with Nahum Vizakis - E90

    3D AGO

    Surviving Iraq: A Soldier's PTSD Battle with Nahum Vizakis - E90

    What happens when you survive war but can’t escape the battle inside your own mind?How does a soldier heal from a lifetime of trauma? Mental health is a cornerstone in our overall wellbeing, and a key piece in extending our healthspans. We all have our different challenges, and for some, that includes overcoming intensely traumatic experiences. His early life was marked by instability, moving through foster homes, running with gangs, and experiencing periods of homelessness. Searching for direction, today's guest enlisted in the military and eventually found himself on the frontlines in Iraq. When he returned home, the war didn’t end. Like many soldiers, he was left facing PTSD and the long road of trying to understand - and heal from - the trauma that had shaped his life. In this episode, we explore the step-by-step journey away from trauma and into his spiritual awakening. From overcoming PTSD, addiction, and identity struggles, to harnessing tools like somatic therapy, hormone optimization, and spiritual practices, our guest demonstrates how rebuilding from the inside leads to lasting vitality - physically and mentally. Nahum Vizakis is an athlete, combat veteran, and healer whose life bridges strength and spirituality. A former U.S. Army Explosive Ordnance Disposal operator, his spiritual awakening began during a 2010 deployment to Baghdad. After leaving the military, he studied healing and human potential with shamans, biohackers, and spiritual mentors worldwide. A competitive bodybuilder with multiple NPC titles, Nahum now works as an entheogenic healer and coach, blending biohacking, plant medicine, and emotional healing. He has also authored two books, ‘The Biohacker’s Guide to Spiritual Bodybuilding’ and ‘The Indigo Flame’, where he shares his journey from war and trauma to awakening. “When you're in that ego place, you're not present, you're distracted, you're creating these stories in your mind and you're amping up this anger so that you can push past your limits. And eventually, that's going to lead to injury.” - Nahum Vizakis In this episode you will learn: How early life hardship and trauma shaped Nahum's drive for health and self-discovery. What role bodybuilding and hormone therapy played in his recovery from PTSD after military service. Why talk therapy sometimes falls short, and how somatic release and bodywork changed Nahum's healing process. The risks of seeking external validation in fitness, and the shift toward mindful and purposeful training. How plant medicine and spiritual exploration helped Nahum find deeper self-acceptance and guiding values. Practical tips for tuning into your body and finding balance between physical goals and inner growth. Resources Connect with Nahum on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spiritual_bodybuilder Learn more about his work in Human Optimization: https://www.optimizinghuman.com Tune into his YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@SpiritualBodybuilder This podcast was produced by the team at Zapods Podcast Agency:https://www.zapods.com Find the products, practices, and routines discussed on the Alively website:https://alively.com

    45 min
  2. The Healing Power Of Sound As Medicine with Laura Avonius - E89

    MAR 9

    The Healing Power Of Sound As Medicine with Laura Avonius - E89

    City noise, relentless alerts, and the pressures of work keep our nervous systems in a constant state of overdrive - making deep relaxation, quality sleep, and a true sense of calm feel out of reach. While traditional advice focuses on meditation or medication, few consider how the sounds around us may be fueling our stress, or how harnessing the right kinds of audio could repair the damage. For anyone feeling tired, tense, or overstimulated, the answer may be simpler - and more natural - than you think. In this episode, we'll explore the science and tradition behind sound therapy, discover the impact one audio company is having on athletes and professionals alike, and how to regulate your nervous system in just 10 minutes. Laura Avonius is the Finnish entrepreneur and artist behind Audicin, a company pioneering the use of audio as medicine for nervous system regulation and improved well-being. Drawing from her personal journey with complex PTSD and her background in composition, Laura has combined centuries-old healing traditions with contemporary brainwave research to develop tailored audio interventions. Audicin's effectiveness has attracted investment and advisory support from the co-founders and science leaders behind the Oura Ring, and its programs have been piloted with major clients such as SOK, Finland’s largest retail group, as well as hospital groups and corporate teams seeking measurable performance and wellness gains. “We have been using audio and music as a medicine in every single civilization on Earth. We just somehow… forgot it with Western medicine.” - Laura Avonius In this episode you will learn: How Laura's experience with PTSD shaped the creation of Audicin and her interest in nervous system health. The science behind audio as medicine and how specific sounds can shift brainwaves for better focus, sleep, or relaxation. Why original music is used in Audicin rather than popular songs, and how composition style impacts your brain state. How results are tracked with wearables and what data shows about improved sleep, HRV, and stress levels in users. The impact of noise pollution on our nervous systems and tips for using sound to stay calm in busy environments. The role of social connection, self-awareness, and finding the right dose when adding audio routines to daily life. Resources Connect with Laura on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraavonius Listen to Laura’s music, as GEA: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1isCvsa0zmYMVRPkPVmNC2?si=qp7NXUL_TxSzUQIV4e08uw Find out more about Audicin: https://audicin.com/ This podcast was produced by the team at Zapods Podcast Agency: https://www.zapods.com Find the products, practices, and routines discussed on the Alively website: https://alively.com

    34 min
  3. Want to Live A Longer, Healthier Life? Start Here - E88

    MAR 2

    Want to Live A Longer, Healthier Life? Start Here - E88

    In the fifth and final installment of the healthspan series, we tackle one of the hardest parts of improving your wellbeing: knowing where to actually begin. Even when you’re motivated to live longer and better, the flood of advice and one-size-fits-all plans can leave you more paralyzed than empowered. In this episode, we'll outline how to overcome the overwhelm and take actual steps that fit your life, not someone else’s. From identifying your most important health markers to building simple, repeatable habits around movement, nutrition, sleep, and social connection, you’ll learn how to create lasting change. In this episode you will learn: Why measuring your health is key before making any changes. Simple at-home checks to track heart rate, waist size, and strength. The most useful lab tests for early signs of aging and disease. How to build lasting habits with small steps rather than big overhauls. A practical 4-week plan to improve movement, nutrition, rest, and social ties. The value of clinics and tech tools for deeper healthspan support. Resources Connect with Andrew on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mandrewmcconnell Follow Alively on Instagram for regular updates and insights: https://www.instagram.com/alively_official Learn more about healthspan from Andrew’s blog: https://www.mandrewmcconnell.com/blog This podcast was produced by the team at Zapods Podcast Agency: https://www.zapods.com Find the products, practices, and routines discussed on the Alively website: https://alively.com

    17 min
  4. Fix Your Brain Fog By Trying This One Thing with Dr. Scott Sherr - E87

    FEB 23

    Fix Your Brain Fog By Trying This One Thing with Dr. Scott Sherr - E87

    94% of US adults show signs of mitochondrial dysfunction: persistent exhaustion, brain fog, and sluggish motivation. These aren’t just personal failings, but a widespread modern problem. Most people chase surface-level fixes for their tiredness, stuck in cycles of caffeine, supplements, and short-lived hacks that never address the real cause beneath the fatigue. The result is ongoing burnout and frustration, even for those who care about their health. This episode exposes the truth behind why you’re exhausted, and lays out a blueprint for restoring deep, sustainable energy. From optimizing your body’s cellular powerhouse to upgrading stress resilience and daily routines, you’ll learn what actually works. Dr. Scott Sherr is a physician, entrepreneur, and founder associated with Health Optimization Medicine and Practice, a nonprofit organization focused on bridging conventional and alternative medicine. Dr. Sherr has developed a clinical approach that combines conventional, alternative, ancient, and cutting-edge therapies. He is also a co-founder of Troscriptions, a company known for pioneering precision-dosed, pharmaceutical-grade health products like methylene blue troches. Dr. Sherr regularly works with health-focused individuals and professionals seeking to optimize energy, cognition, and recovery, and is recognized for his practical contributions to the evolving field of health optimization. “About 94% of US adults have some element of mitochondrial dysfunction, which is huge. This is from toxins in our environment, some medications that we get prescribed, infections, from insulin resistance.” - Dr. Scott Sherr In this episode you will learn: Why building a strong health base is key before trying advanced biohacks or supplements. What methylene blue is, its long history, and how it supports energy and brain health. How modern life leads to GABA deficiency and why optimizing this system matters for sleep and stress. The risks of using the wrong type of methylene blue, and the safest, most effective ways to take it. When to use different TroScriptions products to support focus, energy, and rest. How small health wins can set off a positive chain of habits for lifelong wellness. Resources Connect with Dr. Sherr on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drscottsherr Discover Dr. Scott’s offerings: https://drscottsherr.com/ Learn more about Dr. Sherr’s integrative hyperbaric oxygen therapy practice: https://www.hyperbaricmedicalsolutions.com/integrative-hbot/scott-sherr Shop his supplements range, Troscriptions: https://troscriptions.com/ This podcast was produced by the team at Zapods Podcast Agency: https://www.zapods.com Find the products, practices, and routines discussed on the Alively website: https://alively.com

    41 min
  5. Improve Your Flexibility In Just 15 Minutes with Weightlifting Champion Jerzy Gregorek - E86

    FEB 16

    Improve Your Flexibility In Just 15 Minutes with Weightlifting Champion Jerzy Gregorek - E86

    Realising we’re losing flexibility as we age is often when we feel our oldest. Feeling stiff, sluggish, and limited,  it’s one of the major signs that our body isn’t what it used to be. The constant pull of work, stress, and old injuries keeps most from regaining true freedom of movement, and even daily stretching often fails to deliver lasting results. Progress happens only when you commit to the right kind of practice - quick, consistent, and grounded in both research and lifelong experience. In this episode, you'll learn how to unlock mobility and strength in just 15 minutes a day, avoiding all the short-term fixes and fads. You'll hear from a four-time World Weightlifting Champion, who has dedicated his to create a routine that works for everyone, and allows for powerful, pain-free living Jerzy Gregorek is a four-time World Weightlifting Champion, poet, and co-author of ‘The Happy Body’. A former political exile and recovering alcoholic, he rebuilt his life through discipline, developing a program that blends mindful exercise, micro progression, and emotional intelligence to reverse aging and restore vitality. Featured on The Tim Ferriss Show and other platforms, Jerzy now mentors globally, helping people embrace strength, balance, and longevity. “So the wisdom here in life is to focus on the weakest link, make it focus, right? And then work on it and wait until everything else catches up.” - Jerzy Gregorek In this episode you will learn: Why the Happy Body method is seen as athletic lifestyle medicine, not just a tool to fix problems. How daily routines build compound gains for strength, mobility, and vitality. The importance of flexibility and mobility for lasting health and real agility. What exercise ratios teach us about safe and balanced movement. How to use the Happy Body daily, even with other sports or routines. Tips for lasting motivation and reclaiming health at any age. Resources Connect with Jerzy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerzygregorek Buy Jerzy’s book, ‘The Happy Body’: https://www.amazon.com/Happy-Body-Nutrition-Exercise-Relaxation/dp/0982403828/ Learn more about The Happy Body programme and guide: https://thehappybody.com/ This podcast was produced by the team at Zapods Podcast Agency: https://www.zapods.com Find the products, practices, and routines discussed on the Alively website: https://alively.com

    46 min
  6. Fasting Diets: What to Know Before You Start Intermittent Fasting with Renee Fitton - E85

    FEB 9

    Fasting Diets: What to Know Before You Start Intermittent Fasting with Renee Fitton - E85

    This episode dives into the heart of fasting diets: intermittent fasting, prolonged fasting, and “fasting-mimicking” Get the science and ground rules behind how fasting works, who it’s for, and why it might be a flexible, sustainable path to better energy, metabolic health, and longer vitality. All from a nutrition pro who’s worked with leaders in longevity and helped thousands unlock these benefits step-by-step. Renee Fitton is a Longevity Dietitian and the Vice President of Growth and B2B Sales at L-Nutra, the makers of Prolon and L-Nutra Health. With a Master’s in Longevity Nutrition, she has guided thousands of individuals through fasting mimicking protocols and leads the educational strategy for a network of nearly 20,000 healthcare practitioners sharing these programs with their patients. Renee is the host of the Longevity Lab podcast and a frequent contributor to health media, with appearances on dozens of podcasts and panels. She has spoken at FNCE, the Berlin Life Summit, London’s Medical Longevity Conference, YPO, DrTalks, and other leading wellness events. Known for translating cutting-edge science into practical strategies, Renee is passionate about helping people live better, longer. “If we are doing deep cellular cleanup, we're not just helping one system or one mechanism, we're doing a lot.” - Renee Fitton In this episode you will learn: Why the world of nutrition is full of strong beliefs and why clear answers are rare. How key nutrition advice comes down to eating mostly whole foods and personalizing for your own needs. The science behind different types of fasting, and what actually happens in your body during short and longer fasts. The main benefits and targets of intermittent fasting versus prolonged fasting, including fat burning, cell cleanup, and improved lab results. Why fasting mimicking may be safer and easier for most people, and how it compares to water-only fasting. What to consider before trying fasting, especially around eating history and working with trusted experts. Resources Connect with Renee on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fittonnutrition/ Listen to Renee’s appearances in the media: https://www.fittonnutrition.com/media Learn more about Renee’s offerings: https://www.fittonnutrition.com/ This podcast was produced by the team at Zapods Podcast Agency: https://www.zapods.com Find the products, practices, and routines discussed on the Alively website: https://alively.com

    43 min
  7. Too Small To Fail New Years Resolutions - E84

    FEB 2

    Too Small To Fail New Years Resolutions - E84

    By February, 80% of New Year’s resolutions have already failed. Trying to overhaul your health all at once - better sleep, perfect diet, daily workouts - almost always ends in disappointment and quitting. Life gets busy, willpower fades, and motivation vanishes, leaving you feeling stuck and frustrated all over again. This episode uncovers why big, sweeping changes backfire and shares a smarter, data-driven approach to building habits that actually last. Forget hype and guilt, the conversation is all about making goals so small they’re impossible to fail, and why that’s the real secret to transformation. The next 16 minutes could rewrite your entire strategy for change, and it all starts with the person behind these proven results. In this episode you will learn: Why most New Year's resolutions fail and how small changes are more effective than big overhauls. The power of setting goals that are "too small to fail" for long-term health gains. How to choose one key area of healthspan to target for the biggest impact. Why tracking progress with clear data beats relying on feelings or willpower. What a "minimum enjoyable action" is and how it keeps you moving forward. How simple, steady wins build healthy habits and lasting identity change. Resources Connect with Andrew on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mandrewmcconnell Follow Alively on Instagram for regular updates and insights: https://www.instagram.com/alively_official Learn more about healthspan from Andrew’s blog: https://www.mandrewmcconnell.com/blog This podcast was produced by the team at Zapods Podcast Agency: https://www.zapods.com Find the products, practices, and routines discussed on the Alively website: https://alively.com

    16 min
  8. Can HRT Prevent Cancer? Hormone Replacement Therapy with Carolyn Zaumeyer - E83

    JAN 26

    Can HRT Prevent Cancer? Hormone Replacement Therapy with Carolyn Zaumeyer - E83

    Millions worry about declining energy, fading focus, and the looming risk of age-related diseases - especially cancer - as the years go by. For decades, the belief that hormone therapy could actually increase cancer risk has kept people fearful and searching for answers, even as they suffer through preventable symptoms. But what if that old advice was wrong? Unpacking the latest research and firsthand clinical experience, this episode explores whether hormone therapy can actually protect your health and even reduce the risk of major diseases like breast and prostate cancer, all through the perspective of a true pioneer who’s challenging everything we thought we knew. With over 30 years of expertise in women’s health, Carolyn Zaumeyer, Nurse Practitioner and founder of LowTE Florida, is a nationally recognized leader in the field of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT). Recently named one of the Top Ten Bioidentical Hormone Providers in the U.S., Carolyn has dedicated her career to helping individuals restore vitality and feel their best at every stage of life. She is also a prolific author, with three books to her name—including her most recent title; "Are You Hormone Curious? The Science of Hormone Therapy for Men and Women Explained"—and more than 150 published articles focused on health and wellness. “Because as your hormones decline, you lose that energy, you lose your motivation. You don't feel like working out, you know, you just don't feel good. And so you kind of just retreat a little bit.” - Carolyn Zaumeyer In this episode you will learn: Why bioidentical hormones differ from synthetic options, and how they're used for health and aging. What common signs and feelings lead people to seek hormone therapy. The role of lab tests and personal symptoms in finding the right time to begin treatment. How hormone pellets work, who uses them, and the typical process for starting therapy. What research says about the effects of hormone therapy on bone, brain, heart, and cancer risks. Misconceptions around hormone therapy and advice for finding skilled practitioners. Resources Connect with Carolyn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lowte_florida Read Carolyn’s book, ‘Are You Hormone Curious?’: https://www.amazon.com/Are-You-Hormone-Curious-Explained/dp/B0F16SD6JH Learn all about Carolyn’s work at LowTE Florida: https://lowteflorida.com Listen to her radio show, ‘Let’s Talk Hormones’: https://lowteflorida.com/lets-talk-hormones This podcast was produced by the team at Zapods Podcast Agency: https://www.zapods.com Find the products, practices, and routines discussed on the Alively website: https://alively.com

    31 min
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We profile health and wellness role models, sharing the tools, practices, and routines they use to help you live healthier, longer. Since 1950, the average lifespan has extended by 11 years, but our healthspan hasn’t kept up. We've been pursuing living longer without considering how to make those extra years vibrant and fulfilling. After all, 30 plus years of old age is a long time to spend slowly falling apart. And that's where Home of Healthspan comes in. Host Andrew McConnell interviews healthspan role models to help guide listeners through the 5 Pillars of Healthspan: Fitness Nutrition, Sleep and recovery, Stress management and Mindset, And Social connection & purpose.All so you can not only extend your years, but make them vibrantly healthy from start to finish. This is your guide to extending your healthspan, Making sure you live Alively day today, every day, for all of your days.

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