Biohackher

Can we change how we age? And how much of what's being sold in the name of longevity is backed by human evidence? In this episode, I sit down with Professor Andrea Maier, an internal medicine specialist, geriatrician and longevity researcher, to explore those questions. Her work examines how we can preserve health and function as we grow older, and how promising research can become effective clinical care. We discuss supplements, biological age tests, wearables, fasting and the future of personalised longevity medicine. Andrea explains why "possibility is not proof" is such an important distinction when assessing claims about slowing ageing. One of the most striking moments is her account of testing commercially available NMN and urolithin A supplements. Some contained little or none of the advertised ingredient, raising questions about what consumers are actually paying for. We also explore why a younger biological age score doesn't tell the whole story, how menopause affects organs throughout the body, and why preserving muscle needs to remain a priority when considering fasting. Andrea shares her own approach to longevity, including why sleep comes first and why she measures before choosing an intervention. In this episode, we cover: Where longevity claims are running ahead of the evidence. What supplement testing revealed about quality and label accuracy. Ageing as a balance between accumulated damage and repair. The role of everyday lifestyle choices in healthy ageing. What biological age tests can tell us, and their limitations. Why trends in wearable data can be more useful than a single score. When longevity interventions need medical guidance. Women's health, menopause and the importance of research that considers sex and life stage. Senescent "zombie" cells and what we still don't know about senolytics in humans. Fasting, time-restricted eating and protecting muscle. The future of precision longevity medicine. Andrea's personal priorities for ageing well. Episode timestamps 00:03 — Introducing Professor Andrea Maier: possibility is not proof 02:20 — Supplements and longevity claims: what does the evidence support? 05:55 — What testing NMN and urolithin A supplements revealed 10:06 — Supplement regulation and consumer confidence 12:03 — Can we modify the ageing process? 16:03 — Good stress, harmful stress and the body's response 17:49 — How lifestyle choices influence healthy ageing 28:27 — Wearables, biological age scores and tracking trends 32:43 — Turning health data into practical action 38:12 — Women's biology and the gaps in longevity research 43:31 — Menopause and ageing throughout the body 45:07 — Senescent cells and the promise of senolytics 49:14 — Fasting, calorie restriction and time-restricted eating 54:28 — Protecting muscle while fasting 58:17 — The future of personalised longevity medicine 01:01:10 — Healthspan, independence and the wider benefits of longevity 01:06:00 — Andrea's personal longevity approach CONNECT WITH PROFESSOR ANDREA MAIER Andrea Maier is Oon Chiew Seng Professor in Medicine, NUS Academy of Healthy Longevity, National University of Singapore and Professor of Gerontology, Human Movement Sciences VU Amsterdam after serving from 2016 to early 2021 as Divisional Director at the Royal Melbourne Hospital, Australia, and as Professor of Medicine and Aged Care at the University of Melbourne, Australia. She graduated in Medicine from the University of Lübeck, Germany, was registered 2009 in The Netherlands as Specialist in Internal Medicine-Geriatrics and was appointed Full Professor of Gerontology at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (The Netherlands) in 2013. Andrea B. Maier is an authority in geroscience and precision geromedicine with more than 500 peer reviewed publications (H index 92, i10 index 382). She is invited member and advisor of international academic and health policy committees and funding agencies, including the World Health Organization evaluating the United Nations Decade of Healthy Ageing and Hevolution. She is the past Founding President of the Healthy Longevity Medicine Society and serves as selected Member of The Royal Holland Society of Sciences and Humanities, Fellow of the Atria Academy of Science and Medicine, and Board of the Academy for Health and Lifespan Research. In 2023, she co-founded the NUS Academy for Healthy Longevity to conduct, teach and disseminate Geroscience and Precision Geromedicine. To bring highest evidence-based Precision Geromedicine to clinical practice, she founded Chi Longevity - Asia's first evidence based Precision Geromedicine clinics – in 2022 and established Maier's Longevity in 2024 in The Netherlands X (Twitter): Andrea BMaier LinkedIn: andrea maierprof Instagram: @drandreamaier PREORDER MY NEW BOOK! Biohackher – Live Well Longer is your practical guide to adding life to your years. Drawing on the latest science in women's health, longevity and biohacking, this book cuts through the hype to reveal what actually works to support your brain, body, beauty and balance as you age. From sleep, hormones and gut health to strength, stress, nutrition and cutting-edge longevity tools, you'll discover evidence-based strategies to help you feel stronger, sharper and more vibrant at every stage of life. Released 27 October, 2026 . Pre-order now at: https://www.amazon.com.au/exec/obidos/ASIN/1764247639?tag=simonsayscom WANT TO LEARN MORE? If you're keen to get started on your biohacking journey to optimise your health and live well longer please join me on my socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/biohackher_official LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/azra-alagic-77794526/ Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/people/Biohackher Website: www.biohack-her.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@biohackherpodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@biohackher_official If you found this conversation valuable, share it with someone who's curious about longevity and follow the Biohackher™ Podcast for more conversations on the science of living well longer. I'd also greatly appreciate you following or hitting subscribe on your favourite podcast platform.

What if the way you live in your 40s, 50s and 60s is helping to build the body, brain and life you'll have at 80? In this episode of the Biohackher Podcast, I sit down with gerontologist and biohacker Zora Benhamou to explore why midlife isn't the beginning of decline — it can be one of the most important windows we have to influence how we age. Zora brings a fascinating perspective to longevity, combining the science of gerontology with biohacking and her experiences travelling the world and speaking to women from different cultures about ageing and menopause. We unpack why menopause needs to be viewed as more than a hormonal transition, and how this stage of life can become an opportunity to take stock of our health and think seriously about the woman we want to be decades from now. We explore the foundations that can make a meaningful difference to how we age — from maintaining muscle and protecting bone density to managing chronic stress, supporting recovery, challenging our brains and investing in meaningful relationships. Zora also shares her own experience of severe hip osteoarthritis, undergoing two hip replacements just 12 weeks apart, and the strategies she used before and after surgery to support her recovery. We talk about protein, movement and sleep, as well as biohacks including red light therapy, blood-flow restriction training and peptides — and why none of the more sophisticated interventions should make us lose sight of the fundamentals. In this episode, we explore: Why midlife can be a powerful window of opportunity for longevity How to start thinking about — and building — your 80-year-old self Why menopause shouldn't automatically be associated with decline The connection between muscle, bone health, mobility and independence later in life Why women may need to start thinking about bone health long before 65 Zora's experience with osteopenia and improving her bone mineral density Why stress and nervous-system regulation deserve much more attention Why sophisticated biohacks can't compensate for poor foundations The role of sleep, nutrition, movement, recovery, purpose and community Why challenging your brain matters as you age What Zora has learnt about menopause and ageing from women around the world Why strong relationships may be one of our most overlooked longevity tools One of my favourite ideas from this conversation is Zora's invitation to picture yourself at 80 and work backwards. What do you want your life to look like? Do you want to be strong and independent? Travelling? Picking up your grandchildren? Living in your own home? Still learning, exploring and doing the things you love? We can't control everything about how we age. But the choices we make in midlife can help influence the strength, mobility, resilience and independence we carry into the decades ahead. So perhaps the question isn't simply, "How do I want to feel today?" It's "Who do I want to be when I'm 80 — and what can I start doing now to help me get there?" CONNECT WITH ZORA BENHAMOU Instagram: https://instagram.com/hackmyage Facebook: https://facebook.com/hackmyage TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@hackmyage YouTube: https://youtube.com/@hackmyage PREORDER MY NEW BOOK! Biohackher – Live Well Longer is your practical guide to adding life to your years. Drawing on the latest science in women's health, longevity and biohacking, this book cuts through the hype to reveal what actually works to support your brain, body, beauty and balance as you age. From sleep, hormones and gut health to strength, stress, nutrition and cutting-edge longevity tools, you'll discover evidence-based strategies to help you feel stronger, sharper and more vibrant at every stage of life. Released 27 October, 2026 . Pre-order now at: https://www.amazon.com.au/exec/obidos/ASIN/1764247639?tag=simonsayscom WANT TO LEARN MORE? If you're keen to get started on your biohacking journey to optimise your health and live well longer please join me on my socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/biohackher_official LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/azra-alagic-77794526/ Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/people/Biohackher Website: www.biohack-her.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@biohackherpodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@biohackher_official

Acupuncture has been practised for thousands of years, but as more people look beyond conventional approaches to support chronic health issues, stress and healthy ageing, this ancient practice is finding a new audience. In this episode of the Biohackher Podcast , I'm joined by acupuncturist Scott Baker to explore where acupuncture may fit into a modern approach to health and longevity. We go well beyond the idea of acupuncture simply being used for pain. Scott explains how acupuncture may interact with the nervous system, why stress and pain can influence digestion, and how treatment may help support symptoms including poor sleep, anxiety, chronic pain and some of the symptoms women experience during perimenopause and menopause. We also unpack what may be happening physiologically when acupuncture needles stimulate sensory nerves, including effects on pain pathways, blood flow and nervous-system signalling. Scott and I discuss where acupuncture may complement conventional medicine, where its limitations lie, and why no therapy should be treated as a cure-all. We also explore its potential place in longevity — not necessarily as something that extends lifespan itself, but as a tool that may help manage issues such as pain, digestive symptoms and stress that can make it harder to maintain the foundations of good health. In this episode, we cover: Why acupuncture is experiencing renewed interest How acupuncture may influence the nervous system The connection between stress, digestion and pain Acupuncture for anxiety and nervous-system regulation What the evidence suggests about menopause symptoms such as hot flushes and insomnia Why some women wake between 1 am and 3 am — and the Chinese medicine perspective on sleep How acupuncture may influence chronic pain pathways Where acupuncture may complement conventional medicine The role acupuncture could play in a longevity-focused lifestyle Why one acupuncture session may not be enough to judge whether it works The importance of getting the fundamentals right: nutrition, movement, muscle, sleep and stress Scott is also clear that acupuncture does not work for everyone and that serious or acute health concerns require appropriate medical care. The conversation is about understanding where acupuncture may sit alongside other approaches rather than positioning it as a replacement for conventional medicine. If you've ever wondered whether acupuncture has a place in your longevity toolkit, this episode gives you a fascinating look at where ancient medicine and modern health thinking intersect. CONNECT WITH SCOTT BAKER Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alliedacupuncturegoldcoast/ Instagram: @alliedacupuncturegoldcoast PREORDER MY NEW BOOK! Biohackher – Live Well Longer is your practical guide to adding life to your years. Drawing on the latest science in women's health, longevity and biohacking, this book cuts through the hype to reveal what actually works to support your brain, body, beauty and balance as you age. From sleep, hormones and gut health to strength, stress, nutrition and cutting-edge longevity tools, you'll discover evidence-based strategies to help you feel stronger, sharper and more vibrant at every stage of life. Released 27 October, 2026 . Pre-order now at: https://www.amazon.com.au/exec/obidos/ASIN/1764247639?tag=simonsayscom WANT TO LEARN MORE? If you're keen to get started on your biohacking journey to optimise your health and live well longer please join me on my socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/biohackher_official LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/azra-alagic-77794526/ Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/people/Biohackher Website: www.biohack-her.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@biohackherpodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@biohackher_official

What if the sugar affecting your metabolism isn't just the sugar you eat? In this episode of the Biohackher Podcast, I sit down with metabolic health researcher and educator Chris Mearns to explore an emerging area of research around fructose — and why he believes we need to start thinking about it as more than simply a source of calories. Chris explains the idea of fructose acting as an ancient "survival signal": a biological pathway designed to help us conserve energy when food was scarce, but one that may be chronically activated by our modern environment. We unpack how fructose metabolism may affect cellular energy, mitochondria, cravings, inflammation and fat storage — and why the body can actually manufacture fructose even when we aren't eating it. We also get into a question many women will relate to: why can you be eating much the same way you always have, yet suddenly find yourself gaining more visceral fat during perimenopause and menopause? Chris explains the possible connection between declining oestrogen, uric acid clearance and metabolic health, while acknowledging that this is an area where more research is still needed. We discuss: • Why fructose may behave differently in the body from glucose • How the body can manufacture its own fructose • Why high glucose, dehydration, alcohol and other metabolic stressors may influence this pathway • Whether fruit really deserves the bad reputation fructose sometimes gives it • Why fruit juice and dried fruit are metabolically different from whole fruit • The connection between fructose metabolism, ATP and mitochondrial function • Why cravings may be driven by more than willpower • What happens metabolically when you remove sugar • The role fasting and ketogenic diets may play in metabolic health • Why menopause may change the way women respond to the same diet • Whether CGMs are genuinely useful for understanding metabolic health • The emerging research around fructokinase — the enzyme involved in fructose metabolism • Luteolin, a naturally occurring plant flavonoid being investigated for its potential effects on this pathway • Why the science is interesting, but still evolving — particularly when it comes to supplementation and fructokinase inhibition. Chris also shares a fascinating perspective on three everyday signals he believes may warrant a closer look at metabolic health: persistent cravings, low energy and feeling chronically inflamed. This conversation challenges the simple "calories in, calories out" view of metabolism and looks deeper into what may be happening at the cellular level. Because when your body keeps telling you it needs more energy — despite having plenty of fuel available — the question may not simply be how much you're eating, but how effectively your cells are able to use it. CONNECT WITH CHRIS MEARNS YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thefructosemodel Website: https://liv3health.com/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/ chris mearns Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ chris _liv3/ Find out more about metabolic health at https://liv3health.com/pages/biohackher PREORDER MY NEW BOOK! Biohackher – Live Well Longer is your practical guide to adding life to your years. Drawing on the latest science in women's health, longevity and biohacking, this book cuts through the hype to reveal what actually works to support your brain, body, beauty and balance as you age. From sleep, hormones and gut health to strength, stress, nutrition and cutting-edge longevity tools, you'll discover evidence-based strategies to help you feel stronger, sharper and more vibrant at every stage of life. Released 27 October, 2026 . Pre-order now at: https://www.amazon.com.au/exec/obidos/ASIN/1764247639?tag=simonsayscom WANT TO LEARN MORE? If you're keen to get started on your biohacking journey to optimise your health and live well longer please join me on my socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/biohackher_official LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/azra-alagic-77794526/ Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/people/Biohackher Website: www.biohack-her.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@biohackherpodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@biohackher_official This episode is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Some of the mechanisms and interventions discussed, including fructokinase inhibition and luteolin supplementation, remain areas of emerging research.

Cortisol has become one of the biggest buzzwords in women's health. Can't lose belly fat? Cortisol. Waking at 3am? Cortisol. Exhausted but unable to switch off? Cortisol. But is this hormone really responsible for everything we're blaming it for? In this episode of the Biohackher Podcast , Azra sits down with exercise scientist Amelia Phillips to unpack what cortisol actually does in the female body — and where the wellness conversation may have gone too far. Amelia reveals that in a recent group of 65 women who underwent cortisol testing, only four returned what she describes as a healthy cortisol response. While the group was not representative of the general population, the results highlight just how significant stress dysregulation can be among women already experiencing symptoms. They explore what happens when the body moves from a healthy stress response into being constantly "wired and tired", why some women feel exhausted during the day but wide awake at night, and why waking around 3am may offer clues about what is happening with your stress response. They also tackle one of the biggest claims circulating on social media: the "cortisol belly". Amelia argues that while stress can contribute to weight gain indirectly through disrupted sleep, appetite, cravings and reduced activity, cortisol is rarely the sole root cause of stubborn weight. Insulin resistance may be another important piece of the puzzle. The conversation also dives into some of the most debated advice for women right now — from intermittent fasting and fasted training to HIIT, cold plunges and sauna — and why there may not be one perfect protocol that works for every woman. In this episode: What cortisol actually does — and why we need it The difference between healthy, elevated, blunted and dysregulated cortisol patterns Early signs your stress response may be struggling Why you can feel exhausted yet unable to switch off The connection between cortisol, melatonin and waking during the night Why midlife can become a particularly intense period of stress for women Is there really such a thing as a "cortisol belly"? Why insulin resistance may be worth investigating when weight won't shift How stress interacts with perimenopause and menopause Whether women should exercise fasted When intermittent fasting may — and may not — be appropriate Why Amelia believes many women are doing too little intense exercise rather than too much How to tell when exercise has crossed into overtraining Cold plunges versus sauna and contrast therapy How movement can help the body process an acute stress response The role of blood sugar and nutrition in managing stress Which cortisol and hormone tests may provide useful insights If you've been told to exercise less, stop fasting, avoid HIIT and blame your stubborn belly fat on cortisol, this conversation might make you rethink some of that advice. Because cortisol isn't the enemy. The bigger question is whether your stress response is working the way it should. CONNECT WITH AMELIA PHILLIPS Website: https://www.ameliaphillips.com.au/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AmeliaHealth/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_amelia_phillips/ PREORDER MY NEW BOOK! Biohackher – Live Well Longer is your practical guide to adding life to your years. Drawing on the latest science in women's health, longevity and biohacking, this book cuts through the hype to reveal what actually works to support your brain, body, beauty and balance as you age. From sleep, hormones and gut health to strength, stress, nutrition and cutting-edge longevity tools, you'll discover evidence-based strategies to help you feel stronger, sharper and more vibrant at every stage of life. Released 27 October, 2026 . Pre-order now at: https://www.amazon.com.au/exec/obidos/ASIN/1764247639?tag=simonsayscom WANT TO LEARN MORE? If you're keen to get started on your biohacking journey to optimise your health and live well longer please join me on my socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/biohackher_official LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/azra-alagic-77794526/ Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/people/Biohackher Website: www.biohack-her.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@biohackherpodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@biohackher_official

What if something as simple as the seeds you eat could help support your hormones throughout the month? In this episode of the Biohackher Podcast , I sit down with nutritionist, health coach and Beeya co-founder Kaya Purohit to unpack the increasingly popular — and sometimes controversial — practice of seed cycling . Kaya shares how her fascination with the menstrual cycle began as a teenager, when she noticed her mood, anxiety and emotions shifting at different points of the month. That curiosity eventually led her into nutrition and women's hormonal health — and to seed cycling, a practice she initially admits she was sceptical about. We break down exactly what seed cycling involves, why different seeds are eaten during different phases of the menstrual cycle, and the nutrients within flax, pumpkin, sesame and sunflower seeds that Kaya believes may help support hormonal health. But this conversation goes well beyond periods. Kaya explains why she believes women in perimenopause may particularly benefit from seed cycling and discusses the experiences women have reported with cycle regularity, libido, PMS, hormonal acne, mood and menstrual symptoms. She also shares details of Beeya's clinical trial examining seed cycling and PMS symptoms. We also explore a much bigger issue in women's health: why women are still so often expected to follow health advice developed around men . Kaya reflects on her own experience with fasting, keto and the "5am club", and why learning more about female physiology changed the way she approached her own health. In this episode, we discuss: What seed cycling actually is and how to do it The four seeds used during different phases of the menstrual cycle Why seed cycling isn't a magic bullet for hormonal health PMS, painful periods and what your menstrual cycle can tell you about your health Seed cycling during perimenopause and menopause Why ovulation matters beyond fertility The relationship between estrogen and progesterone Why women shouldn't automatically follow health protocols designed around men Food, gut health and hormonal health Why Kaya moved away from a vegan diet after 25 years as a vegetarian The problem with restrictive wellness trends and conflicting health advice on social media Why women need to be better heard by health professionals The clinical trial examining seed cycling and PMS Why sleep, relationships, community and joy deserve a place in the longevity conversation Kaya also makes an important point throughout our conversation: seed cycling isn't a cure-all . Nutrition, movement, sleep, stress and overall lifestyle still matter, and women's individual experiences shouldn't be reduced to a single protocol. If you've ever wondered whether your period symptoms are simply something you have to put up with, whether seed cycling has any substance behind the hype, or how you can start working with your female physiology rather than against it, this conversation is for you. ABOUT KAYA PUROHIT Kaya Purohit is a nutritionist, mom, filmmaker, and the co-founder of Beeya, where she combines nutrition science with real-life practicality to help women better understand their hormones. Through education, recipes, and food-first strategies, she's on a mission to make hormone health feel simple, approachable, and empowering. CONNECT WITH KAYA PUROHIT @ kaya purohit @beeyawellness PREORDER MY NEW BOOK! Biohackher – Live Well Longer is your practical guide to adding life to your years. Drawing on the latest science in women's health, longevity and biohacking, this book cuts through the hype to reveal what actually works to support your brain, body, beauty and balance as you age. From sleep, hormones and gut health to strength, stress, nutrition and cutting-edge longevity tools, you'll discover evidence-based strategies to help you feel stronger, sharper and more vibrant at every stage of life. Released 27 October, 2026 . Pre-order now at: https://www.amazon.com.au/exec/obidos/ASIN/1764247639?tag=simonsayscom WANT TO LEARN MORE? If you're keen to get started on your biohacking journey to optimise your health and live well longer please join me on my socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/biohackher_official LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/azra-alagic-77794526/ Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/people/Biohackher Website: www.biohack-her.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@biohackherpodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@biohackher_official

Biohacking has become increasingly focused on data. We track our sleep, glucose, heart rate, recovery and biological age — but in our pursuit of better health, have we forgotten how to listen to ourselves? In this episode of the Biohackher Podcast , I sit down with Lawrence Ellyard , founder of the International Institute for Complementary Therapists (IICT), to explore a very different side of health and longevity — one that goes beyond wearables, supplements and technology. Lawrence has spent decades immersed in complementary therapies, spirituality and wellness, and our conversation explores the role intuition, emotional health, connection and even energy medicine may play in how well we live. We talk about why chronic stress can creep up on us, the importance of recognising the patterns that may be keeping us stuck, and why taking greater ownership of our lives can be such a powerful catalyst for change. Lawrence also shares his perspective on somatic therapies, hypnotherapy, meditation and psychedelic-assisted practices, and why finding the right practitioner matters just as much as choosing the modality itself. We also dive into the tension between objective health data and intuition . With so much information now available through wearables and testing, Lawrence argues there is still value in slowing down, tuning into the body and paying attention to those instinctive signals we can so easily override. We discuss: Why some of the most powerful wellness practices cost absolutely nothing How stress and overwhelm gradually accumulate The connection between emotional, physical and spiritual wellbeing Why Lawrence believes somatic approaches can be valuable for working through trauma Hypnotherapy, meditation, energy medicine and complementary therapies How to balance health data with intuition The importance of purpose, connection and community Masculine and feminine energy and how it can show up in relationships How to choose a credible complementary health practitioner Why in-person wellness experiences are making a comeback The rise of what Lawrence calls "The New Woo" — complementary practices once considered fringe becoming increasingly mainstream Lawrence also gives us a glimpse into The New Woo , the documentary he is developing to explore the evolving complementary wellness industry and introduce these modalities to a much broader audience. This conversation is a reminder that longevity isn't only about what we can measure. Sometimes the missing information isn't on our dashboard — it's in how we feel, how we connect and how closely we're paying attention to ourselves. ABOUT LAWRENCE ELLYARD Lawrence Ellyard is the author of nine books; is the CEO of the International Institute for Complementary Therapists (IICT) and founder of the International Institute for Reiki Training. With over 25 years of experience in the natural health industry, Lawrence has been instrumental in developing the IICT's operations within Australia and internationally. He was formally the Director of The International Institute for Reiki Training and has several years of training and practice as a Transpersonal Therapist. CONNECT WITH LAWRENCE ELLYARD Websites : www.myiict.com https://www.lawrenceellyard.com/ Facebook : @myiict Instgram : @myiict @lawrence_ellyard YouTube : @myiict PREORDER MY NEW BOOK! Biohackher – Live Well Longer is your practical guide to adding life to your years. Drawing on the latest science in women's health, longevity and biohacking, this book cuts through the hype to reveal what actually works to support your brain, body, beauty and balance as you age. From sleep, hormones and gut health to strength, stress, nutrition and cutting-edge longevity tools, you'll discover evidence-based strategies to help you feel stronger, sharper and more vibrant at every stage of life. Released 27 October, 2026 . Pre-order now at: https://www.amazon.com.au/exec/obidos/ASIN/1764247639?tag=simonsayscom WANT TO LEARN MORE? If you're keen to get started on your biohacking journey to optimise your health and live well longer please join me on my socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/biohackher_official LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/azra-alagic-77794526/ Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/people/Biohackher Website: www.biohack-her.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@biohackherpodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@biohackher_official

What if ageing isn't simply about slowing decline, but finding ways to support the body's ability to repair and regenerate? In this episode of the Biohackher Podcast, I'm joined by Dr Yi Song to explore the rapidly evolving world of regenerative medicine — from stem cells and exosomes to peptides, red light therapy and some of the ancient Chinese longevity practices now finding their way into modern conversations about healthspan. With a family history spanning 17 generations of traditional Chinese medicine and her own training in Western pathology, Dr Song brings an unusual perspective to longevity. She believes the future of medicine lies in bringing these two worlds together: using modern science and technology alongside a more holistic, preventative approach to health. We unpack what stem cells actually are, how different types of stem cells behave, and why mesenchymal stem cells have attracted so much attention in regenerative medicine. We also tackle the harder questions: How strong is the evidence? Which applications have regulatory approval? How do you distinguish a credible clinic from clever marketing? And are claims that stem cell therapies can slow biological ageing getting ahead of the science? Dr Song also explains the difference between stem cells and exosomes, where peptides may fit into regenerative medicine, and why she believes there is no single "magic bullet" for longevity. Instead, she argues that sleep, nutrition, movement and other foundational health practices still matter — regardless of how sophisticated longevity medicine becomes. We also explore the fascinating intersection between ancient Chinese medicine and modern regenerative therapies, including the idea that supporting the body's capacity for repair is far from a new concept. In this episode, we discuss: What stem cells are and the different types being used and studied Mesenchymal stem cells and why they're attracting attention Stem cells versus exosomes: what's the difference? What the current evidence can — and can't — tell us about stem cells and ageing Osteoarthritis and other areas being investigated for stem cell therapy The regulatory grey areas surrounding regenerative medicine How to identify red flags when researching stem cell clinics Why more expensive treatment doesn't necessarily mean better treatment Peptides, NAD and other approaches to regenerative health Red light therapy, mitochondria and cellular energy Why personalised longevity strategies matter Ancient Chinese longevity practices and their relationship with modern regenerative medicine Why the fundamentals of sleep, nutrition and movement remain central to healthspan This is a fascinating look at one of the most talked-about areas of longevity medicine — including its potential, its limitations and the questions we still need science to answer. Disclaimer: This episode is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Some regenerative therapies discussed in this episode are experimental, unapproved or not approved for the uses discussed, depending on jurisdiction. Always seek advice from an appropriately qualified healthcare professional and check the regulatory status of any treatment before proceeding. ABOUT DR YI SONG Dr. Yi Song is a 17th-generation practitioner of Chinese medicine with advanced training in pathology from Brown University. She is the founder of Stem Cell Therapy Experts. CONNECT WITH DR YI SONG https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr- yi - song / https://www.instagram.com/regenerationeffect/ https://www.youtube.com/@regenerationeffect https://www.facebook.com/regenerationeffect/ https://www.facebook.com/dr. yi . song .stemcellexperts https://x.com/regenerationFx PREORDER MY NEW BOOK! Biohackher – Live Well Longer is your practical guide to adding life to your years. Drawing on the latest science in women's health, longevity and biohacking, this book cuts through the hype to reveal what actually works to support your brain, body, beauty and balance as you age. From sleep, hormones and gut health to strength, stress, nutrition and cutting-edge longevity tools, you'll discover evidence-based strategies to help you feel stronger, sharper and more vibrant at every stage of life. Pre-order now at: https://www.amazon.com.au/exec/obidos/ASIN/1764247639?tag=simonsayscom WANT TO LEARN MORE? If you're keen to get started on your biohacking journey to optimise your health and live well longer please join me on my socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/biohackher_official LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/azra-alagic-77794526/ Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/people/Biohackher Website: www.biohack-her.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@biohackherpodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@biohackher_official LIVE WELL LONGER RETREAT Join us at the Live Well Longer Retreat from 16–20 October 2026 at the award-winning Eden Retreat in the breathtaking Gold Coast hinterland. Over five immersive days, you'll discover evidence-based biohacking and longevity strategies to optimise your health through expert-led masterclasses, movement, nourishing wholefoods, restorative wellness experiences and practical tools you can continue using long after you return home. Hosted by Australia's leading biohackers, Azra Alagic and Camilla Thompson, this retreat is designed to help you reset, recharge and live well for longer. Learn more and book your place at eden.com.au/live-well-longer

We hear more about gut health than ever before. Probiotics, greens powders, fibre supplements, gut cleanses, elimination diets… social media is full of advice promising to heal your gut. But what if some of that advice is actually making things worse? In this episode of the Biohackher Podcast, Azra sits down with functional diagnostic nutrition practitioner and gut health expert Elizabeth Aylor to unpack why so many women continue to struggle with bloating, constipation, IBS, food sensitivities, fatigue and stubborn weight gain despite eating "healthy" and doing everything they think they should. Elizabeth shares her remarkable personal story of battling severe gut dysfunction for years. After being dismissed by doctors, cycling through restrictive diets, antibiotics and countless treatment protocols, she eventually uncovered the root causes behind her symptoms and rebuilt her health from the ground up. Together, Azra and Elizabeth explore why there is no one-size-fits-all approach to gut health and why understanding your own body is the key to lasting results. In this episode, we discuss: Why bloating, constipation and digestive discomfort should never be considered "normal" The biggest gut health mistakes women are making Why probiotics aren't always the answer The dangers of self-prescribing parasite cleanses and gut protocols The connection between gut health, hormones and menopause Why "normal" blood tests don't always tell the full story Histamine intolerance vs MCAS — and why the distinction matters The gut-brain connection and how digestive health influences anxiety, mood and brain fog Why restrictive diets can make gut health worse What functional testing can reveal when conventional testing doesn't The role of stress, sleep and nervous system regulation in digestive health Practical habits that support a healthier microbiome every day If you've ever been told your symptoms are "just IBS", "just stress", or "just part of getting older", this conversation offers a different perspective—one that focuses on identifying the underlying drivers rather than simply masking symptoms. Whether you're navigating digestive issues, hormone changes, unexplained fatigue or simply want to optimise your healthspan, this episode is packed with practical insights you can start applying today. ABOUT ELIZABETH AYLOR Elizabeth Aylor is a Holistic Nutritionist, GAPS Practitioner, Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner (FDN-P) and Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist with a B.S. in Kinesiology. CONNECT WITH ELIZABETH Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGIlEvL5khdLQOCnRoJa4jQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elizabethaylorfitness/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@elizabethaylorfitness Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elizabeth.aylor.1/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@elizabethaylorfitness?lang=en 3-step gut and hormone reset: https://start. elizabeth aylor.info/free-pass-page-4872 PREORDER MY NEW BOOK! Biohackher – Live Well Longer is your practical guide to adding life to your years. Drawing on the latest science in women's health, longevity and biohacking, this book cuts through the hype to reveal what actually works to support your brain, body, beauty and balance as you age. From sleep, hormones and gut health to strength, stress, nutrition and cutting-edge longevity tools, you'll discover evidence-based strategies to help you feel stronger, sharper and more vibrant at every stage of life. Pre-order now at: https://www.amazon.com.au/exec/obidos/ASIN/1764247639?tag=simonsayscom WANT TO LEARN MORE? If you're keen to get started on your biohacking journey to optimise your health and live well longer please join me on my socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/biohackher_official LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/azra-alagic-77794526/ Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/people/Biohackher Website: www.biohack-her.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@biohackherpodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@biohackher_official LIVE WELL LONGER RETREAT Join us at the Live Well Longer Retreat from 16–20 October 2026 at the award-winning Eden Retreat in the breathtaking Gold Coast hinterland. Over five immersive days, you'll discover evidence-based biohacking and longevity strategies to optimise your health through expert-led masterclasses, movement, nourishing wholefoods, restorative wellness experiences and practical tools you can continue using long after you return home. Hosted by Australia's leading biohackers, Azra Alagic and Camilla Thompson, this retreat is designed to help you reset, recharge and live well for longer. Learn more and book your place at eden.com.au/live-well-longer

What if the workouts that worked in your 20s and 30s are the very reason you're feeling frustrated in midlife? In this episode of the Biohackher Podcast , Azra sits down with fitness expert Leah Simmons to unpack one of the biggest misconceptions in women's health: that more cardio and eating less is the answer to maintaining your weight and health after 40. Leah shares why strength training has become one of the most powerful tools for healthy ageing, how our bodies change through perimenopause and menopause, and why exercise needs to evolve alongside our hormones. Together they explore why so many women feel like they've "lost themselves" during midlife, the importance of building muscle to protect against osteoporosis and sarcopenia, how mobility and recovery fit into the longevity equation, and why consistency will always outperform quick fixes. If you've ever wondered whether you're exercising the right way, this conversation offers practical, evidence-informed advice that will help you train smarter—not just harder. In this episode we discuss: Why the workouts that once worked often stop delivering results in midlife The biggest physiological changes women experience during perimenopause and menopause Why strength training is one of the best investments you can make for your future health The truth about Pilates versus strength training How to structure an exercise routine for longevity Why recovery is just as important as the workout itself Common mistakes women make in the gym The role of mobility, balance and grip strength in healthy ageing Cardio, cortisol and whether women should still be running Fasted training: who it suits and who should avoid it How strength training helps protect against osteoporosis and sarcopenia Why consistency—not perfection—is what creates lasting results The mindset shift that helps women reclaim confidence and take up space in midlife Whether you're just beginning your fitness journey or looking to optimise your current routine, this episode will leave you with practical strategies to help you build strength, improve resilience and support your health for decades to come. Connect with Leah Simmons Instagram: @iamleahsimmons KAAIAA: www.kaaiaa.com Timestamps 00:00 Introduction 00:30 What really happens during perimenopause and menopause 03:50 Why women grieve their changing bodies 08:55 Why your old workouts stop working in midlife 12:15 Pilates vs strength training – do you have to choose? 14:15 Weight gain after 40: is it inevitable? 16:00 Sleep, energy and why recovery matters 18:45 The biggest myths about strength training for women 21:40 How strength builds confidence beyond the gym 25:35 Leah's training philosophy: balancing strength, mobility and recovery 31:00 The biggest mistakes women make in the gym 34:15 Why consistency beats intensity every time 36:20 A 51-year-old woman deadlifting 100 kg – and what it teaches us 40:20 How many days should women really strength train? 42:40 Why functional strength matters in everyday life 46:30 What should busy women do if they only have 30 minutes? 49:00 Cardio, cortisol and the best approach in midlife 52:00 Can you overtrain during menopause? 54:40 Building muscle and improving body composition 58:10 Strength training for osteoporosis prevention 1:00:50 Skipping, impact training and bone health 1:01:10 The fitness advice Leah has changed her mind about 1:02:00 Fast-fire round: 1:05:45 Fasted training: should women do it? 1:07:40 Where to find Leah Simmons 1:08:30 Final thoughts PREORDER MY NEW BOOK! Biohackher – Live Well Longer is your practical guide to adding life to your years. Drawing on the latest science in women's health, longevity and biohacking, this book cuts through the hype to reveal what actually works to support your brain, body, beauty and balance as you age. From sleep, hormones and gut health to strength, stress, nutrition and cutting-edge longevity tools, you'll discover evidence-based strategies to help you feel stronger, sharper and more vibrant at every stage of life. Pre-order now at: https://www.amazon.com.au/exec/obidos/ASIN/1764247639?tag=simonsayscom WANT TO LEARN MORE? If you're keen to get started on your biohacking journey to optimise your health and live well longer please join me on my socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/biohackher_official LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/azra-alagic-77794526/ Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/people/Biohackher Website: www.biohack-her.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@biohackherpodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@biohackher_official LIVE WELL LONGER RETREAT Join us at the Live Well Longer Retreat from 16–20 October 2026 at the award-winning Eden Retreat in the breathtaking Gold Coast hinterland. Over five immersive days, you'll discover evidence-based biohacking and longevity strategies to optimise your health through expert-led masterclasses, movement, nourishing wholefoods, restorative wellness experiences and practical tools you can continue using long after you return home. Hosted by Australia's leading biohackers, Azra Alagic and Camilla Thompson, this retreat is designed to help you reset, recharge and live well for longer. Learn more and book your place at eden.com.au/live-well-longer

Sleep is the foundation of every other health intervention, yet it's often the first thing we sacrifice. In this episode of the Biohackher Podcast , Azra sits down with sleep researcher Dr Jemma King , author of Sleep First , to explore why women are significantly more likely to experience poor sleep, how disrupted sleep accelerates ageing, and the practical changes that can dramatically improve your health. Dr King explains why sleep isn't simply about getting enough hours. It's about getting the right type of sleep at the right time. From the critical deep sleep that repairs your body and cleans your brain to REM sleep that regulates emotions and fear, this conversation unpacks the science behind why sleep influences almost every aspect of physical and mental health. They also discuss why women are particularly vulnerable to sleep disruption through hormonal changes, stress and the invisible mental load many carry, and why so many women wake feeling exhausted despite spending enough time in bed. If you've ever wondered whether your wearable is helping or harming, whether melatonin is worth taking, why alcohol wrecks your sleep, or whether you can ever catch up on lost sleep, this episode has the answers. In this episode you'll discover: Why sleep is the most powerful biohack for long-term health and longevity Why women experience significantly more sleep disturbances than men The connection between sleep, hormones, anxiety and menopause What actually happens during deep sleep and REM sleep Why the two hours before midnight are so important for brain repair The science behind your brain's nightly "cleaning cycle" Why poor sleep affects mood, memory, decision-making and relationships How sleep deprivation changes the way other people perceive you Why waking tired despite eight hours in bed isn't normal The surprising link between poor sleep and dementia risk Why sleep apnoea is often overlooked in women How alcohol, caffeine and sugar sabotage sleep quality The truth about sleep trackers and when they become counterproductive What supplements actually have evidence behind them—and which don't The risks of using melatonin incorrectly Whether blue light glasses really work The impact of phones, social media and late-night news on sleep The ideal bedroom temperature for restorative sleep Why consistency matters more than sleeping in on weekends Whether you can really "catch up" on lost sleep CONNECT WITH DR JEMMA KING Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.jemma.king/ LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-jemma-king-phd-76013328/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BiopsychAcademy Website: https://jemmakingbio-pa.com.au/ Buy her book: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/jRW90M PREORDER MY NEW BOOK! Biohackher – Live Well Longer is your practical guide to adding life to your years. Drawing on the latest science in women's health, longevity and biohacking, this book cuts through the hype to reveal what actually works to support your brain, body, beauty and balance as you age. From sleep, hormones and gut health to strength, stress, nutrition and cutting-edge longevity tools, you'll discover evidence-based strategies to help you feel stronger, sharper and more vibrant at every stage of life. Pre-order now at: https://www.amazon.com.au/exec/obidos/ASIN/1764247639?tag=simonsayscom WANT TO LEARN MORE? If you're keen to get started on your biohacking journey to optimise your health and live well longer please join me on my socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/biohackher_official LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/azra-alagic-77794526/ Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/people/Biohackher Website: www.biohack-her.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@biohackherpodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@biohackher_official LIVE WELL LONGER RETREAT Join us at the Live Well Longer Retreat from 16–20 October 2026 at the award-winning Eden Retreat in the breathtaking Gold Coast hinterland. Over five immersive days, you'll discover evidence-based biohacking and longevity strategies to optimise your health through expert-led masterclasses, movement, nourishing wholefoods, restorative wellness experiences and practical tools you can continue using long after you return home. Hosted by Australia's leading biohackers, Azra Alagic and Camilla Thompson, this retreat is designed to help you reset, recharge and live well for longer. Learn more and book your place at eden.com.au/live-well-longer

What can preparing for a mission to Mars teach us about living a longer, healthier life on Earth? In this episode of the Biohackher Podcast , Azra Alagic sits down with sustainability expert, researcher, extreme adventurer and astronaut candidate Dianne McGrath to uncover the extraordinary lessons she's learnt from spending eight years preparing for a one-way mission to Mars. From circumnavigating the globe by yacht to training with NASA medical teams, Dianne has spent decades pushing the limits of human performance. But rather than focusing on space, this conversation explores something much more relevant to every woman: how to build resilience, preserve your health through midlife and create a life filled with purpose. Dianne shares the practical biohacks she adopted to prepare for the physical and mental challenges of space—including optimising sleep, preserving bone density, building muscle, improving mental resilience and testing different nutrition strategies—and explains why many of these same principles are essential for women navigating perimenopause and beyond. Together, Azra and Dianne explore why curiosity may be a key longevity tool, why comfort can quietly hold us back, and how challenging what's considered "normal" can transform the way we age. Whether you're fascinated by space exploration or simply want practical strategies to help you live well longer, this episode will leave you thinking differently about your own potential. In this episode you'll learn: Why curiosity is one of the strongest drivers of longevity The three pillars NASA uses to prepare astronauts—and how you can apply them to your own life Why purpose is essential for healthy ageing The surprising similarities between preparing for space and navigating menopause How Dianne trained her mind to build resilience under extreme conditions Why strength training is non-negotiable for women over 40 The overlooked importance of sleep for longevity and recovery How Dianne tested Paleo, Keto and Carnivore diets using blood biomarkers Why personalised nutrition always beats following the latest trend The importance of preserving bone density before menopause How to build resilience by stepping outside your comfort zone Why challenging what society calls "normal" could change your health forever Practical ways to cultivate curiosity, adaptability and purpose at any age CONNECT WITH DR DIANNE MCGRATH Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_damcgrath/ Website: https://www.diannemcgrath.com.au/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diannemcgrath/ HELP US SPREAD THE WORD! If you found this conversation valuable, interesting or inspiring I'd love you to share the pod and leave a review! Great reviews will help me to continue to bring you interviews with experts in longevity, and health and wellness. I would be so grateful if you could take a few minutes to submit a review on the podcast platform you listen from. PREORDER MY NEW BOOK! Biohackher – Live Well Longer is your practical guide to adding life to your years. Drawing on the latest science in women's health, longevity and biohacking, this book cuts through the hype to reveal what actually works to support your brain, body, beauty and balance as you age. From sleep, hormones and gut health to strength, stress, nutrition and cutting-edge longevity tools, you'll discover evidence-based strategies to help you feel stronger, sharper and more vibrant at every stage of life. Pre-order now at: https://www.amazon.com.au/exec/obidos/ASIN/1764247639?tag=simonsayscom WANT TO LEARN MORE? If you're keen to get started on your biohacking journey to optimise your health and live well longer please join me on my socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/biohackher_official Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/people/Biohackher Website: www.biohack-her.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@biohackherpodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@biohackher_official

Peptides are everywhere right now. From anti-ageing and glowing skin to muscle preservation, injury recovery and weight loss, they're being hailed as the next frontier in health optimisation. But are they really the miracle solution many claim them to be? In this episode of the Biohackher Podcast, Azra sits down with peptide educator and former founder of one of Australia's largest peptide clinics BIOV8, Ted McGill, to separate fact from fiction. Ted is now the CEO and Founder of MediHealthcare and SEVYN. Together, they explore what peptides actually are, why they've become so popular, the growing interest among women, and the critical safety considerations that often get overlooked. You'll learn why peptides are not a replacement for healthy lifestyle habits, how they may support recovery, skin health, cognition and healthy ageing, and why the source of your peptides matters more than most people realise. This conversation also dives into the exploding grey market, the risks of unregulated products, the realities of GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic, and the questions every woman should ask before considering peptide therapy. CHAPTERS 00:50 What Are Peptides? A Simple Explanation 03:25 Why Your Body Needs To Be Primed Before Using Peptides 06:10 Why Women Respond Differently To Peptides 07:15 Why Peptides Have Suddenly Become So Popular 11:25 Are Peptides Revolutionary or Overhyped? 17:50 The Truth About Ozempic and GLP-1 Medications 22:55 Growth Hormone Peptides Explained 25:05 Why More Women Are Turning To Peptides 28:30 The Rise of Grey Market Peptides 31:20 The Biggest Safety Risks People Don't Know About 36:20 How To Spot Contaminated Peptides 38:00 What To Look For Before Buying Peptides 40:00 Why People Buy From The Grey Market 42:20 The Black Market Peptide Boom 44:25 Peptides and Women's Hormones 46:30 Can Peptides Help Arthritis and Joint Pain? 49:40 The Best Peptides For Preserving Muscle 52:15 HRT, Menopause and Longevity 55:35 The Best Peptides For Skin and Anti-Ageing 58:20 Mitochondria, NAD and Cellular Energy 1:00:20 Peptides for Memory, Focus and Brain Health 1:04:50 Which Peptides Should You Avoid? 1:08:00 Final Thoughts: Benefits, Risks and What Women Need To Know CONNECT WITH TED MCGILL Instagram: @tedtalkstm Websites: www.medihealthcare.com & www.sevyn.club To get access to Ted's free couse at www.sevyn.club use the code biohackher HELP US SPREAD THE WORD! If you found this conversation valuable, interesting or inspiring I'd love you to share the pod and leave a review! Great reviews will help me to continue to bring you interviews with experts in longevity, and health and wellness. I would be so grateful if you could take a few minutes to submit a review on the podcast platform you listen from. PREORDER MY NEW BOOK! Biohackher – Live Well Longer is your practical guide to adding life to your years, not just years to your life. Drawing on the latest science in women's health, longevity and biohacking, this book cuts through the hype to reveal what actually works to support your brain, body, beauty and balance as you age. From sleep, hormones and gut health to strength, stress, nutrition and cutting-edge longevity tools, you'll discover evidence-based strategies to help you feel stronger, sharper and more vibrant at every stage of life. Pre-order now at: https://www.amazon.com.au/exec/obidos/ASIN/1764247639?tag=simonsayscom WANT TO LEARN MORE? If you're keen to get started on your biohacking journey to optimise your health and live well longer please join me on my socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/biohackher_official Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/people/Biohackher Website: www.biohack-her.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@biohackherpodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@biohackher_official

We've all heard that saunas are "good for you". But is sitting in the heat actually doing something meaningful for your long-term health — particularly as women move through perimenopause and menopause? This week on the Biohackher Podcast, I sit down with integrative medical practitioner and sauna researcher Dr Joy Hussain for a deep dive into the science of sauna and why heat exposure may be one of the most underrated tools for women's longevity. From cardiovascular health and dementia prevention to hormone regulation, stress resilience and hot flushes, Dr Joy unpacks what's really happening inside the body when you step into a sauna — and why the benefits go far beyond relaxation. We explore why sauna acts as a form of "good stress" for the body, how it supports thermoregulation (something many women struggle with in midlife), and what the research is beginning to reveal about its role in healthy ageing. Dr Joy also breaks down one of the biggest questions in wellness right now: infrared or Finnish sauna — does it actually matter? In this episode, we cover: • What medically happens inside the body during sauna exposure • Why sauna may support cardiovascular health and longevity • The fascinating link between sauna, menopause and hot flushes • Can sauna help reduce dementia risk? • The role of heat exposure in nervous system regulation • Why women may respond differently to sauna than men • The truth about sweating, detoxification and microplastics • Breathwork in the sauna — are we missing an untapped longevity tool? • Sauna vs exercise: can heat mimic some of the same benefits? • Infrared vs Finnish sauna — the pros and cons of each • The most common sauna mistakes that can make it unsafe • Who should be cautious with sauna use and why personalised protocols matter If you're curious about longevity, women's health, hormones, nervous system regulation or simply whether your sauna habit is doing what you think it is — this episode is for you. Listen now and discover why heat might be one of the most powerful tools we have for living well longer. ABOUT DR JOY HUSSAIN Dr Joy Hussain is the Director of Health with Joy , an integrative medicine clinic promoting wellness, wearables, and evidence-based sauna therapies. She holds qualifications in family medicine (USA), medical acupuncture (Monash University), and molecular biology (M.I.T., USA). After 20+ years of clinical practice in both Australia and the USA, Dr Joy redirected her career to furthering research in complementary medicine. In 2021, she completed doctoral studies at RMIT University examining the health effects of frequent sweating and sauna bathing. Dr Joy also works as a medical researcher at Wesley Research Institute, involved in several ongoing clinical trials. She lives in Brisbane, Australia with her husband, daughter, and two felines. She also lovingly grows vanilla bean orchids and maintains a hive of Australian indigenous bees. CONNECT WITH DR JOY HUSSAIN Clinic: https://healthwithjoy.com.au/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joy-hussain-47b3a197/ Academia: https://rmit.academia.edu/JoyHussain ResearchGate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Joy-Hussain HELP US SPREAD THE WORD! If you found this conversation valuable, interesting or inspiring I'd love you to share the pod and leave a review! Great reviews will help me to continue to bring you interviews with experts in longevity, and health and wellness. I would be so grateful if you could take a few minutes to submit a review on the podcast platform you listen from. WANT TO LEARN MORE? If you're keen to get started on your biohacking journey to optimise your health and live well longer please join me on my socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/biohackher_official Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/people/Biohackher Website: www.biohack-her.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@biohackherpodcast

For decades, women's health has been underfunded, under-researched and often misunderstood. But a quiet revolution is underway — and technology is at the centre of it. In this episode of The Biohackher Podcast , Azra Alagic sits down with Lindsay Davis , founder of the FemTech Association Asia , to unpack how FemTech and artificial intelligence are reshaping the future of women's healthcare — from fertility and menopause to personalised medicine, diagnostics and prevention. But with innovation comes big questions. Can AI actually improve women's healthcare outcomes? What happens to our privacy and personal data? Is bias already being built into the systems designed to help us? And can technology ever replace the human element of medicine? Lindsay takes us inside the rapidly growing FemTech movement in Asia, sharing why women's health innovation is finally gaining momentum, where the biggest opportunities lie, and why closing the women's health gap requires more than just new apps and wearables. They also dive into the realities female founders face when building health businesses, why funding for women's health still lags behind, and what must change if we want a healthcare system that truly works for women. If you've ever wondered where women's healthcare is heading — and whether technology could finally help bridge the gap — this conversation is for you. In this episode, we cover: • What FemTech actually is — and why it matters • How AI is already changing women's healthcare • The opportunities and risks of AI in women's health • Bias, privacy and inclusivity concerns in healthcare technology • Why women have historically been underrepresented in medical research • How personalised health data could improve care outcomes • Why education and community matter in navigating health technology • The biggest gaps still facing women's healthcare globally • Why funding women's health could create the biggest ripple effect • Advice for female founders building businesses in health and wellness • The rise of FemTech across Asia and what Australia can learn Connect with Lindsay Davis: LinkedIn: Lindsay Davis Website: femtechassociation.com If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review and share it with a woman in your life who deserves better healthcare. HELP US SPREAD THE WORD! If you found this conversation valuable, interesting or inspiring I'd love you to share the pod and leave a review! Great reviews will help me to continue to bring you interviews with experts in longevity, and health and wellness. I would be so grateful if you could take a few minutes to submit a review on the podcast platform you listen from. WANT TO LEARN MORE? If you're keen to get started on your biohacking journey to optimise your health and live well longer please join me on my socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/biohackher_official Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/people/Biohackher Website: www.biohack-her.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@biohackherpodcast

What if one of the most overlooked longevity tools for women has been hiding in plain sight for billions of years? In this episode of the Biohackher podcast, Azra sits down with algae expert and founder of EnergyBits, Catharine Arnston , to unpack the science behind spirulina and chlorella — and why these tiny green tablets might be one of the most underrated tools for women's energy, brain health, muscle preservation and healthy ageing. If you're in perimenopause or menopause, struggling with fatigue, brain fog, cravings, poor recovery or stubborn energy crashes, this episode explores the cellular and mitochondrial reasons why — and whether algae could be the missing link. Catharine explains why women over 40 experience a "perfect storm" of mitochondrial decline, how hormones impact cellular energy, and why nutrients like chlorophyll, protein and antioxidants may matter more than ever for longevity. You'll also hear the science behind why spirulina and chlorella have been studied for everything from metabolic health and inflammation to detoxification, sleep, muscle maintenance and cardiometabolic health. We cover: Why Catharine calls algae the "first biohack on earth" The surprising reason women lose energy in midlife What mitochondria actually do — and why they matter for longevity The menopause–mitochondria connection Why women experience more brain fog, fatigue and cognitive decline Spirulina vs chlorella: what's the difference? How algae may support energy, focus and blood sugar stability The role of algae in muscle preservation and healthy ageing Why protein becomes increasingly important for women in midlife The science behind chlorophyll and cellular health Could algae help support detoxification and toxin burden? Mold, heavy metals and environmental toxins — what the research says Why sleep, recovery and bowel health matter for longevity How Catharine personally uses spirulina and chlorella daily Whether algae can support cardiometabolic health and healthy ageing Why some professional athletes use spirulina and chlorella for performance and recovery About Catharine Arnston Catharine Arnston is the founder and CEO of EnergyBits and one of the leading educators in algae nutrition. After her sister was diagnosed with breast cancer, Catharine began researching alkaline nutrition and discovered spirulina and chlorella — a discovery that changed the direction of her life. Since then, she has spent more than 17 years researching algae, speaking on its benefits and helping translate the science into practical health strategies. Connect with Catharine Website: https://energybits.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/energybits/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ENERGYbits/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/energybits HELP US SPREAD THE WORD! If you found this conversation valuable, interesting or inspiring I'd love you to share the pod and leave a review! Great reviews will help me to continue to bring you interviews with experts in longevity, and health and wellness. I would be so grateful if you could take a few minutes to submit a review on the podcast platform you listen from. WANT TO LEARN MORE? If you're keen to get started on your biohacking journey to optimise your health and live well longer please join me on my socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/biohackher_official Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/people/Biohackher Website: www.biohack-her.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@biohackherpodcast

What happens when a man spends seven years as a monk chasing enlightenment… only to walk away and question everything he was taught? Azra sits down with former monk and trauma educator, Matthew Zoltan, to explore his extraordinary journey from shearing sheds in rural Australia to monastic life in India and Australia — and the pivotal experience that led him to leave it all behind. Matthew opens up about becoming a monk at just 18, why he walked away from conventional spirituality, and how his own lived experience shaped a radically different perspective on trauma, healing and the body. Together, Azra and Matthew unpack why trauma may not just live in the mind, but in the body, why many people struggle to access painful memories, and what might be missing from traditional approaches to healing. This episode explores powerful ideas around emotional pain, nervous system responses, meditation, memory, spirituality and what it really means to heal. In this episode, we cover: Why Matthew became a monk at just 18 years old What life was really like living as a monk in Australia and India The moment everything shifted and he began questioning monastic life Why he says traditional meditation may not work for everyone How unresolved trauma can live in the body Why some people struggle to remember traumatic events The connection between stored emotions and physical symptoms Why healing may require feeling, not suppressing, difficult emotions His thoughts on spirituality, religion and modern mental health What he believes many traditional therapy models are missing Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction: Why Matthew became a monk at 18 05:00 – Life inside a monastery and the search for enlightenment 14:30 – The physical experience that changed everything 22:30 – Why Matthew was eventually asked to leave monastic life 31:00 – What spirituality gets wrong 42:00 – His philosophy on meditation and self-awareness 52:00 – Trauma: why the body remembers what the mind forgets 1:05:00 – Why people struggle to access painful memories 1:16:00 – The limits of traditional trauma therapy 1:22:00 – What healing trauma really looks like About Matthew Zoltan Matthew Zoltan is a former monk, meditation teacher and trauma educator whose personal journey led him to develop his own perspective on emotional healing, embodiment and human behaviour. Drawing from years of lived experience, meditation and working with thousands of people, Matthew explores the connection between trauma, memory and the body. Connect with Matthew Website: Website: https://bit.ly/4upNOuM OR https://bit.ly/46Y153H OR https://mattzoltan.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-zoltan-7ab8521bb/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@matt_zoltan HELP US SPREAD THE WORD! If you found this conversation valuable, interesting or inspiring I'd love you to share the pod and leave a review! Great reviews will help me to continue to bring you interviews with experts in longevity, and health and wellness. I would be so grateful if you could take a few minutes to submit a review on the podcast platform you listen from. WANT TO LEARN MORE? If you're keen to get started on your biohacking journey to optimise your health and live well longer please join me on my socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/biohackher_official Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/people/Biohackher Website: www.biohack-her.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@biohackherpodcast

Did you know that autoimmune conditions affect women at nearly four times the rate of men? In this eye-opening episode, host Azra Alagic sits down with functional medicine health coach Jo Brownlow to unpack why autoimmunity is on the rise, why women are disproportionately affected, and — most importantly — what you can actually do about it. Jo brings both clinical expertise and personal experience to the conversation, having navigated her own autoimmune journey from a coeliac diagnosis in infancy through to Hashimoto's in adulthood. In this episode, we cover: What autoimmunity actually is and the four key factors that drive it Why leaky gut is present in virtually every autoimmune case — and the everyday things causing it (including the contraceptive pill and ibuprofen) Why so many women are misdiagnosed or dismissed for years before getting answers The truth about thyroid medication — and why it doesn't treat the root cause of Hashimoto's Why chronic stress may be the most underestimated trigger of autoimmune flare-ups The critical role of nervous system regulation in healing Hidden mediators like mold toxicity and heavy metals that are often overlooked How to advocate for yourself and what blood tests to ask for Whether you've already been diagnosed with an autoimmune condition or you're simply not feeling like yourself and can't get answers, this episode will give you the knowledge and tools to start asking the right questions. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 — Introduction & what is autoimmunity? 01:35 — The four key drivers of autoimmune conditions 02:15 — Leaky gut: why it's present in nearly every autoimmune case 04:17 — Chronic stress: the trigger most women don't even know they have 05:14 — Why autoimmune conditions are so often misdiagnosed 07:32 — Jo's personal journey: from coeliac as a baby to Hashimoto's 10:22 — Are autoimmune conditions becoming more common in women? 11:32 — How Jo investigates root causes with new clients 13:57 — What happens when autoimmunity is left unaddressed 17:27 — Can autoimmune conditions actually be reversed? 19:39 — Why functional medicine gets labelled "woo woo" (and why that's wrong) 20:47 — Thyroid testing: why the reference ranges are too wide 23:24 — The biggest misunderstanding about Hashimoto's and thyroid medication 25:19 — Chronic stress, trauma & nervous system regulation 29:30 — Vagus nerve: simple techniques to activate your parasympathetic state 31:37 — Strength training with autoimmunity: how to exercise without adding inflammation 34:25 — Healthy habits that are secretly making autoimmune symptoms worse 36:40 — The gut-immune connection and why it's everything 42:04 — Alcohol, leaky gut & making mindset shifts that stick 45:39 — When autoimmune symptoms get mistaken for perimenopause 47:29 — Maternal stress, neurodivergent children & autoimmune resilience 49:53 — Early red flags to watch for before autoimmunity progresses 52:55 — How to advocate for yourself & what blood tests to request CONNECT WITH JO BROWNLOW Website: www. jo brownlow.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ jo -brownlow Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ jo brownlowholistichealth Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ jo brownlow.holistic.health HELP US SPREAD THE WORD! If you found this conversation valuable, interesting or inspiring I'd love you to share the pod and leave a review! Great reviews will help me to continue to bring you interviews with experts in longevity, and health and wellness. I would be so grateful if you could take a few minutes to submit a review on the podcast platform you listen from. WANT TO LEARN MORE? If you're keen to get started on your biohacking journey to optimise your health and live well longer please join me on my socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/biohackher_official Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/people/Biohackher Website: www.biohack-her.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@biohackherpodcast

What happens when you spend a decade building one of the world's biggest wellness brands, sell it for life-changing money — and then stop? For Radek, the answer was a slow unravelling. In this candid and wide-ranging conversation, Azra sits down with Radek — the force behind Swisse, Australia's legendary supplement giant that grew from $10M to $700M in revenue — to unpack what it really takes to live well for longer. From the neuroscience of purpose to the dark side of wearables, the myth of work-life balance, and why your wearable might actually be hurting your sleep, this episode is a masterclass in longevity thinking from someone who's lived it from every angle. Key Moments & Timestamps [00:00] Welcome & introduction — Radek's career and building Swisse [01:53] Does the wellness industry teach people to buy health instead of build it? [02:12] What Radek discovered when he stopped working — and why doing nothing almost broke him [06:12] Growing up with the "godfather of functional medicine" as your dad — and still falling into bad habits [08:26] AI, ChatGPT, and why human connection is under threat [12:14] Is wellness evidence-based, or is it brilliant storytelling? [17:59] The nervous system blind spot — why the industry is too obsessed with nutrition [20:22] Continuous glucose monitors, gnocchi, and listening to your own body [21:24] Wearables: life-changing data tool or anxiety machine? [27:26] Can extreme business success be anti-longevity? [28:02] Why building a business requires the same commitment as training for the Olympics [33:20] What wellness founders keep getting wrong about human behaviour change [34:10] How Radek scaled Swisse from $10M to $700M — and what he does differently now [38:39] Why culture is the number one business priority — and Swisse still wins awards 10 years after Radek left [43:50] Is the wellness industry over-complicating things? The case for keeping it simple [46:37] The global longevity market — what percentage is genuinely transformational? [47:19] The truth about supplement quality, TGA regulation, and what to look for on a label [51:39] Biohacking fads Radek has seen come and go (including one truly memorable one involving urine) [53:54] Will longevity be won by technology, biology, or culture? [56:09] What Radek would do differently if launching Swisse in 2026 [57:15] Final question: What does it mean to live well longer ? CONNECT WITH RADEK SALI LinkedIn: Radek Sali | LinkedIn Instagram: Radek Sali (@ radek sali) HELP US SPREAD THE WORD! If you found this conversation valuable, interesting or inspiring I'd love you to share the pod and leave a review! Great reviews will help me to continue to bring you interviews with experts in longevity, and health and wellness. I would be so grateful if you could take a few minutes to submit a review on the podcast platform you listen from. WANT TO LEARN MORE? If you're keen to get started on your biohacking journey to optimise your health and live well longer please join me on my socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/biohackher_official Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/people/Biohackher Website: www.biohack-her.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@biohackherpodcast

We're generating more health data than ever before… But are we actually healthier? In this episode, I sit down with Jasmine Smith, CEO of Rejuve AI, to unpack what's really happening at the intersection of artificial intelligence, personalised health, and longevity. Because behind the sleek wearables and endless tracking apps is a much bigger question: Who actually owns your health data — and who is it really serving? Jasmine brings a rare insider perspective from both healthcare systems and AI development, revealing why most of today's health data is fragmented, underutilised, and in many cases, benefiting companies more than individuals. We go beyond the hype to explore what AI-driven health actually looks like in real life — from personalised protocols and real-time feedback loops to the emerging ability to run your own "N=1" longevity experiments. But this conversation isn't just about optimisation. It's about power, ownership, and the future of how we make decisions about our bodies. We also dive into: Why more data isn't automatically leading to better health outcomes The behavioural gap — and why knowing what to do still isn't enough How AI could radically accelerate longevity research and clinical trials The ethical tension between data monetisation and personal health agency Why most health tech still isn't truly built for women The shift from standardised medicine to deeply personalised care And what it will actually take to move from reactive healthcare to proactive healthspan optimisation One of the most compelling ideas? That your health data — when fully leveraged — could become one of your most valuable personal assets. But only if it's working for you. This episode will change the way you think about your data, your doctor, and your daily decisions. Because the future of health isn't about more information. It's about precision . CONNECT WITH JASMINE SMITH Website: https://www.rejuve.ai/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RejuveAI Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rejuve_ai/ LinkedIn: https://www.rejuve.ai/ and https://www.rejuve.ai/ JOIN OUR LIVE WELL LONGER WOMEN'S BIOHACKING RETREAT 1–6 May 2026 | Revīvō Wellness Resort, Bali Live Well Longer Retreat has been named Group Retreat of the Year 2025 by the prestigious Destination Deluxe Awards . Following this global recognition, we're thrilled to return to Revīvō Wellness Resort in Bali , 1–6 May 2026, for a deeply personalised, science-led retreat created exclusively for women ready to reclaim their vitality and redesign their future. Co-founded by renowned biohacking experts Azra Alagic a nd Camilla Thompson this award-winning women-only experience blends cutting-edge biohacking with soulful rituals and ancient practices to deliver lasting transformation. At this intimate retreat, limited to just 16 women, you'll experience: Daily biohacking workshops tailored to women's health Private coaching, DNA testing, and optional hormone/gut diagnostics with naturopath Hot/cold therapy, hydrotherapy, meditation and MOVEŌ movement classes A curated, functional medicine-inspired gourmet menu Spa treatments, traditional Balinese blessings, full moon ceremony 1:1 consult with Cocoon medical Dr Whether you're curious about biohacking or already on your longevity path, this retreat delivers the clarity, support, and practical tools to thrive at every stage of life. Find out more here www.livewelllongerretreats.com Contact Revivo Retreat directly with any questions or to book directly (deposit required) reservation-nusadua@revivoresorts.com HELP US SPREAD THE WORD! If you found this conversation valuable, interesting or inspiring I'd love you to share the pod and leave a review! Great reviews will help me to continue to bring you interviews with experts in longevity, and health and wellness. I would be so grateful if you could take a few minutes to submit a review on the podcast platform you listen from. WANT TO LEARN MORE? If you're keen to get started on your biohacking journey to optimise your health and live well longer please join me on my socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/biohackher_official Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/people/Biohackher Website: www.biohack-her.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@biohackherpodcast