The Model Health Show

Shawn Stevenson

  • 1 hour 14 minutes
    Does Better Sex = Better Health? The Truth About Sex, Stress, & Satisfaction - With Dr. Nicole McNichols

    Our sexual health is a critical part of our overall health and well-being, yet it’s one that can be easily overlooked or dismissed. Understanding the role of sexual health can help you better understand yourself, your relationships, and your body. On today’s show, we’re going to have honest and approachable conversations about sexual health, sexual education, pleasure, and desire.  

    On this episode of The Model Health Show, our guest is nationally renowned human sexuality professor, Dr. Nicole McNichols. Her new book, You Could Be Having Better Sex, is a guide to understanding desire, improving pleasure, and busting common myths about sex. She’s here to discuss the connection between sexual health and overall health and how to have better sex. 

    This conversation covers how your sex life can impact your psychology and sleep, what pleasure is, and how to have better sex and connection. Dr. McNichols is known for her ability to help folks understand how to apply the latest research to their real lives, and I hope you find this interview both entertaining and educational. Enjoy!  


    In this episode you’ll discover:

    • The relationship between sexual health and overall health. (2:47)
    • Why our society has so much shame around sex. (4:42)
    • What the media gets wrong about sex. (10:25) 
    • How long the average sex session lasts. (13:01) 
    • What pleasure diversity is. (15:30) 
    • The difference between vaginal and clitoral orgasms. (18:35) 
    • What it means to have connected sex. (31:00) 
    • The most common myths about female pleasure. (31:59) 
    • What responsive desire is. (34:42) 
    • The #1 thing robbing women of desire. (38:39) 
    • What the hierarchy of sexual needs is. (56:14) 
    • How the menstrual cycle can impact pleasure. (1:06:56) 

    Items mentioned in this episode include: 

    Be sure you are subscribed to this podcast to automatically receive your episodes:  

    This episode of The Model Health Show is brought to you by Beekeeper’s Naturals and Wild Pastures. 

    Reinvent your medicine cabinet for with clean, effective products powered by the beehive & backed by science. Claim up to a 30% discount at beekeepersnaturals.com/model. 

    Get 100% grassfed and finished beef, pasture raised chicken, and other nutrient dense, regenerative meats. Sign up with my link to get 20% of for life, plus an additional $15 off your first box at wildpastures.com/model.   

    4 February 2026, 3:19 am
  • 49 minutes 49 seconds
    Hidden Stressors That Are Making You Sick & The Truth About Juicing - With Drew Canole

    For most folks, getting a grip on the foundations of health like nutrition, sleep and exercise, will make a huge difference in how they feel every day. But what do you do when you’re seemingly doing everything right, but still not feeling your best? Today, we’re going to talk about how factors like stress, nature, light, and connection can influence your health and well-being.  

    Today’s guest, Drew Canole, is the founder and CEO of Organifi. He’s back on The Model Health Show for a conversation about the hidden stressors that might be stopping you from reaching your health goals, the best supplements for optimal health, and how to juice the right way.  

    You’re going to learn about the critical role nature plays in regulating our health and nervous systems, what your sexual health can tell you about your overall health, and what your body needs to heal. Drew is passionate about helping others optimize their health and transform their lives. I hope you enjoy this interview!  


    In this episode you’ll discover: 

    • How Drew’s approach to juicing has evolved. (4:20) 
    • The health concerns associated with certain juices. (5:47) 
    • Why separating ourselves from nature is so harmful. (8:52) 
    • The role the feeling of safety plays in healing. (9:32) 
    • Breathing exercises you can use to calm your nervous system. (15:05) 
    • The link between stress and sexual function. (19:47) 
    • What Shilajit is and its benefits. (23:38) 
    • How working out can give you more energy. (30:11) 
    • The value of having a mentor. (35:08) 
    • Why you need to fill your cup first to be your best self. (45:44) 

    Items mentioned in this episode include: 

    This episode of The Model Health Show is brought to you by Organifi.

    Organifi makes nutrition easy and delicious for everyone. Take 20% off your order with the code MODEL at organifi.com/model

    2 February 2026, 3:00 am
  • 1 hour 10 minutes
    The Food Pyramid Exposed: Here's What No One Is Telling You!

    This year, the USDA released a new set of Dietary Guidelines for Americans. The redesigned food pyramid maintains some long-standing recommendations but also introduces a shift away from processed food and toward high protein and healthy fats. These new guidelines have stirred up a lot of controversy, but today, we’re going to break it down in a commonsense way. 

    On this episode of The Model Health Show, we’re diving into the history and science of government dietary guidelines. You’ll learn about prior versions of USDA nutritional recommendations and how these policies impact food access for Americans. We’ll also talk about the pros and cons of the guidelines throughout history, as well as today.  

    You’re also going to hear about specific studies that outline the importance of proper nutrition for human health, including the truth about dietary fat, how calorie counting actually works, and the impact of high protein diets on weight and metabolism. Most importantly, we’re going to talk about taking control of your and your family’s health. I hope you enjoy this episode of The Model Health Show!  

    In this episode you’ll discover: 

    • What The Farmers’ Bulletin was and its purpose. (0:44) 
    • How different macronutrients translate to calorie counts. (4:31)  
    • Common misconceptions about calorie estimates. (5:15) 
    • How the human body processes ultra processed calories. (6:31) 
    • The history of the food pyramid. (13:46) 
    • Pros and cons of MyPyramid. (22:55) 
    • How obesity rates in the United States have changed in recent decades. (27:12) 
    • New additions to the USDA’s dietary recommendations. (28:12) 
    • The truth about saturated fat. (32:48) 
    • What percentage of the average American’s diet is ultra processed foods. (42:21) 
    • How the thermic effect of food works. (47:55) 
    • The health benefits of a higher protein diet. (48:55) 
    • Why USDA guidelines have an enormous impact on food access. (56:24) 
    • Who has the ultimate authority over your diet and health. (1:06:03) 

    Items mentioned in this episode include: 

    Be sure you are subscribed to this podcast to automatically receive your episodes:  

    This episode of The Model Health Show is brought to you by Beekeeper’s Naturals. 

    Reinvent your medicine cabinet for with clean, effective products powered by the beehive & backed by science. Claim up to a 30% discount at beekeepersnaturals.com/model. 

    28 January 2026, 3:00 am
  • 55 minutes 57 seconds
    You Are One Mindset Shift Away From Achieving Everything You Want - With Light Watkins

    It’s the time of year when most people begin to drop their New Year’s resolutions. The appeal of a new beginning has faded, and many folks realize the goals they originally set are not realistic or maintainable. But what does it actually take to create sustainable changes in your life? Today, you’re going to learn the keys to getting the results you want.  

    Light Watkins is a bestselling author and world-renowned meditation teacher and mindfulness expert. His newest book, The Year You Transform, details what it takes to actually create change in your life and the roadmap to get there. Today, Light is back on The Model Health Show for an inspirational conversation about transformation.  

    You’re going to learn powerful principles like how doing less can actually help you achieve more, how to create micro-challenges that over time lead to massive results, and other powerful mindset shifts that are necessary for change. I hope you enjoy this interview with the one and only, Light Watkins!  

    In this episode you’ll discover: 

    • What the three paths to change are. (2:44) 
    • How to use the tortoise approach to change for lasting results. (4:55) 
    • The definition of change and what it requires of you. (5:33) 
    • What it means to take hops of faith. (6:18) 
    • The power of setting a 7-day challenge. (7:32) 
    • How to go from normal to elite. (10:01) 
    • Realistic tips to get more steps per day. (16:10) 
    • What a free-range mind is. (21:41) 
    • How to reframe your bad habits. (30:29) 
    • Why being honest with yourself allows you to improve. (41:23) 
    • How to create an environment that supports change. (47:04) 

    Items mentioned in this episode include: 

    Be sure you are subscribed to this podcast to automatically receive your episodes:  

    This episode of The Model Health Show is brought to you by Bon Charge.  

    Bon Charge carries the world’s largest selection of science-backed blue light blocking technology to enhance your sleep and overall wellness. Use my code MODEL at boncharge.com/model for 15% off blue light blocking glasses and more. 

    26 January 2026, 3:04 am
  • 1 hour 4 minutes
    Combine These Two Exercises to Burn Fat, Boost Strength, & Increase Your Longevity - With Michael Easter

    Most people today realize the numerous health benefits that walking can provide. But in recent years, the trend of walking with a weighted vest has gained a lot of traction. Today, you’re going to learn how weighted walking can improve your health. 

    Today’s guest, Michael Easter, is a New York Times bestselling author who is passionate about sharing science-backed strategies you can use to optimize your life and fitness level. On this episode of The Model Health Show, Michael is back for a fascinating conversation on how walking with weight can improve your metabolism, strength, and much more!

    You’re going to learn why humans are built to carry weight, and how this movement pattern shaped our evolution as a species. We’re going to uncover how walking with weight can offer the unique combination of both cardio and strength training, and how you can easily incorporate this routine into your everyday life. I hope you enjoy this episode of The Model Health Show! 

    In this episode you’ll discover:

    • Why the human species was designed to walk while carrying weight. (3:21)
    • How technology has changed our relationship with weighted walking. (4:01)
    • The science behind how walking with weight can help you lose fat. (6:15)
    • How using a weighted vest can aid in weight loss maintenance. (10:26)
    • Advice for preventing injury while walking with weight. (15:25)
    • How much weight to carry as a beginner. (20:15)
    • Why carrying weight can improve your lifespan. (32:31)
    • What NEAT is and why it matters. (37:24)
    • The importance of going outside for human health. (43:12)
    • How to get started with weighted walking. (56:45)

    Items mentioned in this episode include:

    Be sure you are subscribed to this podcast to automatically receive your episodes: 

    This episode of The Model Health Show is brought to you by LMNT and Organifi. 

    Head to DrinkLMNT.com/model to claim a FREE sample pack of electrolytes with any purchase.

    Organifi makes nutrition easy and delicious for everyone. Take 20% off your order with the code MODEL at organifi.com/model.

    21 January 2026, 3:31 am
  • 1 hour 25 minutes
    Science-Backed Methods That Extend Your Life Far More Than Genetics Ever Will

    Your genes influence many things about you, including your traits, and how your body operates. But is it actually true that our genes can control our health outcomes? Today, you’re going to learn about epigenetics, your ability to put the brakes on the aging process, and the science-backed habits that can boost your longevity.  

    On this episode of The Model Health Show, you’re going to hear my interview on the Mind Pump Show, where I discussed the impact your relationships have on your health, the truth about the role our genes play in dictating our health outcomes, and how to improve your biological age. You’re going to hear some interesting studies on vitamin D supplementation, the differences between whole and unprocessed foods, and the invaluable role that our relationships play in our lives.  

    In this conversation, I’m also divulging some of the critical life lessons I’ve learned throughout the hardships of the past couple years, including my experiences with parenting, loss, and family dynamics. You’re going to learn about the benefits of having a healthy relationship with sun exposure, why our expectations can shape our experiences, and so much more. Enjoy! 

    In this episode you’ll discover:

    • How our relationships impact every area of our lives. (8:44)
    • The connection between longevity and healthy relationships. (19:19) 
    • What epigenetics are and the truth about your perception. (32:47)
    • The link between vitamin D levels and telomere length. (36:04)
    • Why biological aging can vary based on habits. (37:36)
    • What percentage of the population is vitamin D deficient. (39:59)
    • Tips for optimal vitamin D supplementation. (41:45)
    • The fascinating science on how your mindset can slow down aging. (47:50)
    • How epicaloric controllers can affect your weight, hormones, and more. (56:04)
    • Why your perception of stress can shape your experiences. (1:07:57)
    • The value of having meaning and purpose in your life. (1:10:48)

    Items mentioned in this episode include:

    Be sure you are subscribed to this podcast to automatically receive your episodes: 

    This episode of The Model Health Show is brought to you by Wild Pastures and LMNT.

    Head to DrinkLMNT.com/model to claim a FREE sample pack of electrolytes with any purchase.

    Get 100% grassfed and finished beef, pasture raised chicken, and other nutrient dense, regenerative meats. Sign up with my link to get 20% of for life, plus an additional $15 off your first box at wildpastures.com/model.  

    19 January 2026, 3:00 am
  • 1 hour 3 minutes
    The Shocking Connection Between Stress and Belly Fat (And What You Can Do About It!)

    Today we’re going to dive into the intricate relationship between stress and excess body fat. Managing your stress, along with essential diet, sleep, and exercise inputs, is a critical part of your overall well-being—including your body composition. On this compilation episode of The Model Health Show, you’re going to learn from four incredible experts on the role that stress plays in our bodies. 

    You’re going to learn about the connection between stress and unwanted body fat, as well as how to reduce your stress levels. You’re going to learn from some of the most respected experts in the realm of stress, cortisol, psychology, and healthy aging. This episode covers the difference between good stress and bad stress, how your hormones respond to cortisol, and tips for helping your body manage stress better.  

    Managing your stress might be the overlooked secret to unlocking your body composition goals, so I hope this episode gives you the information and inspiration you need. Click play and enjoy the show!  

    In this episode you’ll discover: 

    • What percentage of doctor’s visits are fueled by stress. (0:41) 
    • The link between stress levels and visceral fat. (2:56) 
    • Why excess cortisol leads to more belly fat. (5:05) 
    • What types of exercise are best for your cortisol rhythm. (10:47) 
    • The two types of genes that are most likely to be harmed by trauma. (22:06) 
    • How your hormones respond to high levels of cortisol. (23:48) 
    • What percentage of people have dysregulated cortisol levels. (29:45) 
    • One of the biggest misconceptions about stress. (33:50) 
    • Three key beliefs that can help you manage stress better. (33:30) 
    • Why exercise is essential for mental health. (36:17) 
    • What hormesis is. (46:01) 
    • The definition of sustress and why it can be damaging. (47:04) 
    • What the main goal of your stress response system is. (48:58) 
    • How cellular dysfunction leads to modern diseases. (51:50) 
    • The role your mitochondria plays in your overall health. (55:54) 

    Items mentioned in this episode include: 

    Be sure you are subscribed to this podcast to automatically receive your episodes:  

    This episode of The Model Health Show is brought to you by Paleovalley and Pique.  

    Use my code MODEL at Paleovalley.com/model to save 15% sitewide on nutrient dense snacks, superfood supplements, and more.   

    Go to Piquelife.com/model for exclusive savings on bundles & subscriptions on cutting-edge solutions for your head-to-toe health and beauty transformation. 

    14 January 2026, 3:17 am
  • 58 minutes 18 seconds
    New Weight Loss Study Shows How to Keep Weight Off Long-Term

    There are many strategies you can use to harness your biology to reach your goals, but have you ever considered the role that gravity plays in regulating your body weight?

    On this episode of The Model Health Show, we’re diving into the fascinating science on the human body’s relationship to gravity. You’re going to learn about how the human body can sense weight, and how it reacts accordingly to regulate your metabolism and body weight.  

    You’re going to learn how to harness the power of biogravitational medicine to improve your metabolic health, body composition, and more. Specifically, you’re going to learn how the human metabolism regulates in response to weight loss, and how loading your body with additional weight can improve weight loss efforts. 

    We’re going to cover specific ways you can use this interesting relationship with gravity to improve your workouts and uplevel your daily routine. You’ll also learn five main areas you need to address to support the regulation of your body weight and overall health. I hope you enjoy this episode of The Model Health Show!  

    In this episode you’ll discover: 

    • What percentage of weight loss attempts fail long-term. (0:23) 

    • The definition and purpose of resting metabolic rate. (2:45) 

    • How gravitational loading can help your body resist regaining weight. (4:48) 

    • Why every part of our bodies evolved to manage gravity. (12:01) 

    • How wearing a weighted vest can impact your body composition. (17:03) 

    • The fascinating relationship between weight loading and liver health. (21:15) 

    • What the gravitostat is. (23:14) 

    • How to add a weighted vest or alternative equipment to your existing routine. (26:32) 

    • The best anti-gravity exercises for all fitness levels. (28:52) 

    • Five factors to address to ensure your fat loss efforts will last long-term. (36:21) 

    • How your hunger and satiety hormones react to weight loss. (36:50) 

    • The critical link between nutrient deficiencies and overeating. (38:30) 

    • Why focusing on walking can aid in fat loss. (41:07) 

    • The two main ways to protect muscle mass during weight loss. (49:47) 

    • Why better sleep can improve your body composition. (50:01) 

    • The role your relationships play in supporting your health goals. (52:55) 

    Items mentioned in this episode include: 

    • Sleep Smarter - Upgrade your sleep habits with my national bestselling book!  

    Be sure you are subscribed to this podcast to automatically receive your episodes:  

    This episode of The Model Health Show is brought to you by Peluva.  

    Peluva’s barefoot minimalist shoes support postural alignment, proprioception, and overall functionality. Get 15% off your order by using code MODEL at peluva.com/model.  

    12 January 2026, 4:05 am
  • 1 hour 10 minutes
    How Muscle Mass Impacts Sexual Function, Muscle Clock Genes, & The Power Of Isometrics - With Dr. Gabrielle Lyon

    Having an adequate amount of muscle mass on your frame can protect your longevity, improve your metabolism, and so much more. In fact, a new study showed a strong connection between muscle mass and sexual function. Today we’re going to deep dive this topic, including how you can apply science-backed strategies to get stronger for life.   

    Today’s guest, Dr. Gabrielle Lyon is a board-certified physician, New York Times bestselling author, and the founder of the Muscle-Centric Medicine movement. Her new book, The Forever Strong Playbook, shares the exact formula needed to build muscle for long-term health. Today, Dr. Lyon is back on The Model Health Show for an enlightening conversation on the role of muscle in sexual health and how to train for injury prevention and longevity.  

    This conversation highlights the importance of isometric exercises, including the top exercises to master to preserve functionality and mobility. You’re going to learn about muscle clock genes, the role sleep plays in muscle building, and so much more. Dr. Gabrielle Lyon is an absolute expert in this subject matter, and I hope you enjoy this conversation!  

    In this episode you’ll discover: 

    • What percentage of men have erectile dysfunction. (2:48) 
    • How muscle operates as a metabolic organ. (3:26) 
    • The link between sarcopenia and erectile dysfunction. (5:03)  
    • Why it’s critical to protect your tendon health. (9:03) 
    • What an isometric exercise is and its role in injury prevention. (10:14) 
    • Which nutrients are critical for collagen synthesis. (18:45) 
    • What the Foundational 5 are and their purpose. (24:07) 
    • The importance of being able to activate your posterior chain. (28:59) 
    • Why muscle health and mental health are connected. (33:01) 
    • What the muscle clock is. (43:08) 
    • The definition of MPS. (47:43) 
    • How your sleep impacts your ability to build muscle. (50:11) 
    • Why thermal stress can improve your health. (1:00:43) 

    Items mentioned in this episode include: 

    Be sure you are subscribed to this podcast to automatically receive your episodes:  

    This episode of The Model Health Show is brought to you by Wild Pastures and Paleovalley.  

    Get 100% grassfed and finished beef, pasture raised chicken, and other nutrient dense, regenerative meats. Sign up with my link to get 20% of for life, plus an additional $15 off your first box at wildpastures.com/model.   

    Use my code MODEL at Paleovalley.com/model to save 15% sitewide on nutrient dense snacks, superfood supplements, and more.   

    7 January 2026, 3:17 am
  • 1 hour 25 minutes
    The Top 4 Things That EVERY Diet Needs to Protect Your Gut Health & Boost Your Longevity - With Dr. Will Bulsiewicz

    Today, there are more dietary approaches and frameworks to choose from than ever before in human history. No matter your preferences, there are a few nutrients we can all make a point to intentionally increase for better health. On today’s show, you’re going to learn exactly how to upgrade your diet for a healthier, longer life.   

    Dr. Will Bulsiewicz is a board-certified gastroenterologist and New York Times bestselling author. His new book, Plant Powered Plus details the important connection between gut health, inflammation, and immune health. Dr. B is back on The Model Health Show for an important conversation on healing your gut, getting in necessary dietary inputs, and protecting your longevity.  

    In this interview, you’re going to learn the top four things to prioritize in your diet for better gut health and inflammation levels, how to take advantage of your circadian rhythms for improved health, and an important conversation on food safety. You’re going to learn the science behind short chain fatty acids, how your environment plays a role in regulating your health, and so much more. Dr. B is an absolute expert on gut health, and I hope you enjoy this conversation.  

    In this episode you’ll discover: 

    • The one thing that really matters, regardless of the dietary framework you choose. (4:03) 
    • Four compounds you need in your diet for better gut health. (4:58)  
    • What the longevity nutrient is. (7:20) 
    • The percentage of Americans that are deficient in fiber. (7:38) 
    • What the three most anti-inflammatory nutrients are. (8:46) 
    • The critical connection between your gut microbiome and your immune system. (10:03) 
    • How short chain fatty acids can aid in gut healing. (10:43) 
    • What intestinal permeability is and how it occurs. (13:10) 
    • The link between inflammation, immune system, and chronic health conditions. (13:39) 
    • How a compromised gut can heal. (17:21) 
    • The problem with ultra-processed food in our food system. (23:13) 
    • Practical strategies to reduce your exposure to plastics. (39:46)  
    • How your circadian rhythm impacts your health. (55:03) 
    • What polyphenols are and how to incorporate more in your diet. (1:05:25) 

    Items mentioned in this episode include: 

    Be sure you are subscribed to this podcast to automatically receive your episodes:  

    This episode of The Model Health Show is brought to you by Our Place and Pique.  

    Get 10% off toxin-free, ceramic coated cookware by using my code MODEL at fromourplace.com/model.  

    Go to Piquelife.com/model for exclusive savings on bundles & subscriptions on cutting-edge solutions for your head-to-toe health and beauty transformation. 

    5 January 2026, 3:22 am
  • 48 minutes 46 seconds
    The Top 3 Ways to Lose Fat FAST and Get in the Best Shape of Your Life This Year!

    If your New Year’s resolution involves losing fat or getting in better shape this year, you’ll need a solid strategy. Instead of doing random workouts or guessing what to eat, a better approach is to create an efficient routine that actually yields results. Today, you’re going to learn about exactly what it takes to improve your metabolic health, build muscle, and burn fat.  

    On this episode of The Model Health Show, you’re going to learn about the top three ways to burn fat. You’re going to learn about the specific exercises, dietary inputs, and lifestyle habits that will support your goals of optimizing fat loss. You’ll learn how to improve your sleep, get the most bang for your buck out of your workouts, and much more.   

    Not only are we going to cover the science behind these simple, proven tips, but you’ll also hear actionable steps to add them into your routine in 2026! I hope this episode brings you inspiration and education to start your new year off right. Enjoy!  

    In this episode you’ll discover: 

    • What REHIT is. (0:44)  

    • The difference between cardio, HIIT, and REHIT. (1:30) 

    • Why we need to move fast to burn fat. (8:21) 

    • What glycogenolysis is and its relationship to insulin. (10:15)  

    • How REHIT makes you more efficient at burning fat. (11:29) 

    • What an amplification cascade is. (13:00) 

    • The relationship between REHIT and insulin sensitivity. (14:45) 

    • How REHIT can diminish the feeling of dreading exercise. (17:04) 

    • Ways to implement REHIT without running. (18:03) 

    • The critical connection between sleep and fat loss. (24:45) 

    • Why being sleep deprived can accelerate muscle loss. (26:55) 

    • The importance of having lean muscle mass as you age. (28:44) 

    • How screens can disrupt your sleep. (30:25) 

    • What sleep nutrients are and how to include more in your diet. (39:19) 

    • The role of protein in building muscle. (42:38) 

    Items mentioned in this episode include: 

    Be sure you are subscribed to this podcast to automatically receive your episodes:  

    This episode of The Model Health Show is brought to you by Bon Charge.  

    Bon Charge carries the world’s largest selection of science-backed blue light blocking technology to enhance your sleep and overall wellness. Use my code MODEL at boncharge.com/model for 15% off blue light blocking glasses and more.   

    31 December 2025, 3:42 am
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