The Model Health Show

Shawn Stevenson

  • 1 hour 19 minutes
    Diagnosed With Parkinson's at 27, He Became a World Record Holder & American Ninja Warrior – With Jimmy Choi

    When faced with a challenging situation like a life changing diagnosis, it can be easy to feel defeated or go into denial. But if you can channel your inner strength and tap into the right mindset, most of us would be surprised at what we can accomplish, how vast our capacities actually are, and how we can break past our limits to achieve more than we ever imagined possible. Today, you’re going to hear a powerful story of overcoming. 

    Today’s guest, Jimmy Choi is an endurance athlete who was diagnosed with Young-Onset Parkinson’s disease at the age of 27. Despite his diagnosis, Jimmy is able to maintain an active lifestyle, including running marathons, competing as an American Ninja Warrior and setting multiple Guinness World Records. 

    On this episode of The Model Health Show, Jimmy is sharing his inspirational story of living with Parkinson’s disease. You’re going to hear about his experience going through denial, how he started training to manage his symptoms, the role of mindset in overcoming health challenges, and so much more. Enjoy!

    In this episode you’ll discover:

    • The story of Jimmy’s diagnosis. (6:02)
    • How an accident inspired Jimmy to get stronger. (13:33)
    • Why getting involved with Parkinson’s research helped Jimmy become active. (18:06)
    • The difference between consistency and perfection. (27:30)
    • How exercise can help improve Parkinson’s disease symptoms. (29:33)
    • Why having a purpose in the gym is so helpful in making changes. (32:33)
    • The difference between motivation and discipline. (58:42)
    • Jimmy’s approach to diet and nutrition. (1:05:46)
    • The role mindset plays in managing chronic illnesses. (1:09:50)

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

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

    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. 

    18 March 2026, 2:00 am
  • 1 hour 10 seconds
    The Truth About Burning Fat After 40 & Why Evidence-Based Training Can Be Wrong - With Jay Ferruggia

    For years, losing body fat has been overcomplicated in our culture. Myths like spot reduction, counting calories, and excessive cardio exercise have infiltrated the fitness space and have stopped folks from making real progress on their health goals. On today’s show, you’re going to learn about six important but often overlooked keys to fat loss. 

    Today’s guest, Jay Ferruggia, is a high-performance fitness coach with over 30 years of experience. Jay works with professional athletes and has played a pivotal role in more than 10,000 transformations. He is also an expert in fitness over 40 and how to get real world results in the gym. 

    Jay is back on The Model Health Show for an incredible conversation on the forgotten factors of fat loss, how to build muscle over 40, and the importance of sequencing and form. Jay has a wealth of knowledge and experience, and I know you’re going to love hearing his insights. So click play and enjoy the show! 

    In this episode you’ll discover:

    • The major misconceptions about what it takes to lose body fat. (3:52)
    • What the 6 Ss of fat loss are. (7:22)
    • How optimizing your vitamin D levels can make you feel better. (8:58)
    • The effect saturated fat has on your metabolism. (11:07)
    • How salt can enhance your performance. (16:49)
    • The connection between sleep and fat loss. (20:47)
    • How to build a strong metabolism. (27:30)
    • Why you should always be working to improve your form. (38:35)
    • What sequencing is and why it matters. (39:58)
    • The best exercises for building strength. (54:00)

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

    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.  

    16 March 2026, 1:57 am
  • 1 hour 17 minutes
    From Opioid Addiction to Becoming the Fastest Marathon Runner in the World - With Ken Rideout

    Life is full of highs and lows, but it’s how you handle and reframe your challenges that can dictate the quality of your life. Today, you’re going to hear a testimony of what it takes to overcome life’s hardest moments and how to create a life you truly love. 

    Our guest today is Ken Rideout. Ken is the world’s fastest marathoner over 50, former prison guard, Wall Street trader, and opioid addict. His story of transformation and overcoming life’s greatest difficulties is a testament to the unbreakable power and resilience of the human spirit. On this episode of The Model Health Show, Ken is sharing his inspirational story. 

    You’re going to hear how Ken became the fastest marathon runner over 50, his history with navigating addiction, imposter syndrome, adoption and fatherhood, and so much more. I know Ken’s story will inspire you to unlock your true capacity and harness your mindset to reach your goals. Enjoy! 

    In this episode you’ll discover:

    • What inspired Ken to write a book. (4:59) 
    • How Ken’s upbringing influenced him. (7:25)
    • Ken’s experience working as a Wall Street trader. (21:07)
    • The story of Ken’s 10-year opioid addiction. (25:26)
    • How Ken dealt with infertility and adoption. (33:48)
    • What inspired Ken to start running marathons. (43:55)
    • How to create a career that you love. (50:25)
    • The truth about overcoming fear. (56:07)
    • How to focus on the things you can control in life. (1:11:10)

    Items mentioned in this episode include:

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

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

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

    11 March 2026, 2:08 am
  • 1 hour 9 minutes
    Change Your Body's Fat Loss Thermostat & Crack the Hunger Code - With Dr. Jason Fung

    Is sustainable, natural weight loss possible in a world of crash diets and weight loss medications? On today’s show, you’re going to learn about real, science-backed strategies that you can use to regulate your body’s internal weight regulation system. If you want to reach a healthy, maintainable body weight long-term, this episode is full of actionable insights for you.

    Today’s guest, Dr. Jason Fung is a medical doctor and New York Times bestselling author who has helped thousands of people lose weight and prevent disease through clinically proven, natural strategies. Dr. Fung is recognized as one of the first physicians to prescribe the combination of healthy eating and intermittent fasting for patients with obesity. His new book, The Hunger Code, is a complete guide to losing weight in the era of calorie counting, GLP-1 medications, and ultra processed foods.

    In this episode you’ll discover:

    •  What your body’s fat thermostat is and how it works. (3:07)

    • How your hormones influence hunger and satiety. (5:11)

    • The role insulin plays in regulating hunger. (6:07)

    • Why counting calories doesn’t work long-term. (11:29)

    • How hormone shifts during perimenopause can influence weight. (17:48)

    • Why ultra processed foods contribute to weight gain. (28:06)

    • The three different types of hunger. (28:38)

    • How changing your environment can help you lose weight. (38:23)

    • The problem with conventional weight loss strategies throughout history. (51:00)

    • Dr. Fung’s three golden rules of weight loss. (53:35)

    • The best practices for fasting. (1:00:02)

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

    Use my code MODEL at⁠ ⁠themodelhealthshow.com/ourplace⁠⁠ for 10% off toxin-free, ceramic coated cookware.

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

    9 March 2026, 2:25 am
  • 1 hour 28 minutes
    How to Reverse Cavities & Protect Your Oral Microbiome - With Dr. Staci Whitman

    For decades, traditional dentistry has treated dental cavities through strategies like placing fillings to replace the damaged tooth structure. But today, thanks to the advent of functional dentistry, science shows that early-stage cavities can be reversed through lifestyle, hygiene, and remineralization strategies. Today, you’re going to learn about proven strategies for stopping and reversing tooth decay.  

    Today’s guest, Dr. Staci Whitman is a board-certified dentist and the founder of the first Functional Pediatric Dental Practice in the United States. She is passionate about using root-cause principles to help patients of all ages prevent and treat dental issues. On this episode, Dr. Whitman is sharing the science behind the oral microbiome and real, science-backed strategies for reversing cavities. 

    In this conversation, you’re going to learn about the relationship between dental health and metabolic health, what your oral microbiome needs to thrive, and how your diet affects the health of your teeth and gums. You’re also going to learn about healing cavities, how to improve the look of your smile, and so much more. Dr. Whitman is a true expert and pioneer in the field of functional dentistry, and I know you’re going to love hearing her insights on this episode of The Model Health Show!  

    In this episode you’ll discover: 

    • What the most common chronic disease is. (3:05) 
    • Why there is a separation between dentistry and medicine. (4:07) 
    • What cavities actually are and how they occur. (6:44) 
    • The main enemy of preventable dental diseases. (9:32) 
    • Why cavities are a metabolic disease. (13:21) 
    • How your breathing impacts your dental health. (17:14) 
    • Realistic strategies for preventing cavities in children. (30:42) 
    • The role your saliva plays in remineralizing your teeth. (35:52) 
    • What hydroxyapatite is. (38:20) 
    • The importance of flossing for cavity prevention. (39:52) 
    • How Dr. Whitman’s stance on fluoride has evolved over her career. (44:08) 
    • What gum inflammation can tell you about your overall health. (58:36)  
    • The importance of having strong, resilient gums. (1:03:41) 
    • Natural strategies for whitening your teeth. (1:09:41) 

    Items mentioned in this episode include: 

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

    Organifi makes nutrition easy and delicious for everyone. Take 20% off your order with the code MODEL at organifi.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 March 2026, 3:05 am
  • 1 hour 17 minutes
    The Shocking Connection Between Vitamin D & Sleep - With Dr. Stasha Gominak

    If you’re laying the foundation with healthy sleep hygiene habits, but quality sleep is still evading you, what should you do next? Many people suffer through this problem or turn to short-term solutions without getting to the root cause of the problem. But what if you could support your body’s natural sleep process with simple, accessible, cost-effective solutions?  

    Today’s guest, Dr. Stasha Gominak is a neurologist and sleep coach. Her program, RightSleep, teaches a proven approach to restore sleep through supplementation, healing the gut, self-assessment, and giving the body the tools it needs to cultivate restorative, high-quality sleep. Dr. Gominak has published influential articles that show the important connection between sleep and gut health as well as sleep and sun exposure. 

    On this episode of The Model Health Show, Dr. Gominak is here to talk about the powerful role that vitamin D has in regulating sleep. We’re diving into the science of how vitamin D works in the body, its essential role in facilitating sleep, and so much more. Dr. Gominak is also sharing her top tips for sleeping better. I hope you enjoy this interview!  

    In this episode you’ll discover: 

    • What vitamin D’s specific roles are in the body. (2:12) 
    • How a vitamin D deficiency can contribute to obesity. (2:42) 
    • What it means if your vitamin D levels do not rise with supplementation. (4:41) 
    • How sleep changes when vitamin D levels fall. (8:27) 
    • The truth about vitamin B-12. (17:36)  
    • How vitamin D affects the human brain stem. (20:31) 
    • The link between acetylcholine deficiency and sleep problems. (28:04) 
    • What the origins of vitamin B supplementation are. (44:45) 
    • Why vitamin D supplementation is important. (53:19) 
    • The importance of the microbiome for whole body health. (1:00:01) 
    • Dr. Gominak’s top tips for better sleep. (1:04:18)

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

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

    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.

    2 March 2026, 3:10 am
  • 36 minutes 1 second
    The #1 Thing That Destroys Your Sleep Quality

    Getting better sleep can help you reach your health and fitness goals, operate at your highest potential, and feel better on a day-to-day basis. But for many people, getting high quality sleep is easier said than done. Today, you’re going to uncover the biggest lever you can pull to get more restorative sleep at night.  

    On this episode, you’re going to learn about the #1 thing that is harming your sleep quality, plus three specific ways to overcome it for a better night’s sleep. You’re going to learn about the science of the human body’s circadian timing system, how it works, and the specific inputs it needs for optimal function.  

    You’re also going to learn about three science-backed tactics to start improving your sleep quality immediately. This episode is full of the latest science, plus actionable tips you can implement today. I hope you enjoy this episode of The Model Health Show!  


    In this episode you’ll discover: 

    • What the circadian timing system is. (0:35)  
    • The difference between a reactive system and an anticipatory system. (2:32) 
    • What your circadian clocks influence. (3:32) 
    • The connection between circadian disruption and metabolic dysfunction. (5:26) 
    • How social jetlag can contribute to obesity. (7:15) 
    • The #1 thing contributing to poor sleep quality. (9:52) 
    • What entrainment is. (13:43) 
    • How using blue light emitting devices before bed can harm your health. (17:12) 
    • Three specific steps you can take to improve your sleep quality. (19:34) 
    • Ideas for replacing your screentime before bed. (21:03) 
    • How natural light inputs from the sun impact your circadian rhythm. (29:59) 

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    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.   

    25 February 2026, 3:00 am
  • 1 hour 25 minutes
    Do These 5 Exercises to Transform Your Athletic Ability, Prevent Injuries, & Perform at Your Best - With Coach Mike Guevara

    There’s not one test that can measure your level of athleticism, but today you’re going to learn about what it takes to improve your strength, move better, and recover faster. No matter your preferred exercise or sport, this interview will help you take your skills to the next level. 

    Today, our guest is Mike Guevara, also known as Coach Mike G. He is a world-class performance coach, entrepreneur, and founder of GBG Hoops, a training app built to help basketball players at any skill level improve their skills, enhance mobility, and so much more. Coach Mike G works with everyone from youth athletes to NBA stars, and today he’s sharing his knowledge and experience with you. 

    In this conversation, you’re going to learn what it means to be athletic and how to train for injury prevention. We’re going to cover the power of adding isometric exercises into your routine, the benefits of barefoot training, and the importance of play. Coach Mike G is also sharing his top 5 tips for becoming more athletic and fit. I hope you enjoy this episode of The Model Health Show!  

    In this episode you’ll discover: 

    • What it means to be athletic. (3:48) 
    • How injuries actually occur. (6:42) 
    • The link between fatigue and injury. (8:21) 
    • How nutrition impacts performance and recovery. (11:16) 
    • Why you should train for injury prevention and resilience. (20:30) 
    • The benefits of isometric exercises. (23:25) 
    • Why you should train barefoot, and how to get started. (34:41) 
    • How rebounding can stimulate your lymphatic system. (51:56) 
    • The importance of play in training. (57:35) 
    • 5 specific things everyone can do to become more fit. (1:01:04) 

    Items mentioned in this episode include: 

     

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

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

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

    23 February 2026, 3:00 am
  • 1 hour 15 minutes
    How Your Tongue Health Influences Your Lifespan & the Type of Exercise That Ages You Faster - With Dr. Daniel Pompa

    Aging is an inevitable part of life, but is it possible to use healthy habits to slow down the aging process? On today’s show, we’re going to dive into science-backed habits and practices you can implement today for better health, higher quality of life, and slower, healthier aging.  

    Today’s guest, Dr. Daniel Pompa, is widely regarded as a leader in natural detoxification. His work focuses on helping patients overcome inflammation based chronic diseases through detox practices and cellular healing. Today, Dr. Pompa joins us for a conversation on powerful ways to slow down the aging process.  

    We’re diving into specific oral health practices you can implement for better health, the best science-backed exercises to slow down aging, and the best nutrition tips for optimal gut health and lower risk of disease. Dr. Pompa is also sharing his 5 Rs of cellular detox. I hope you enjoy this episode of The Model Health Show!  

    In this episode you’ll discover: 

    • The surprising health benefits of tongue scraping. (2:11) 
    • What types of training are best (and worst!) for longevity. (5:07) 
    • The connection between the gut and oral microbiome. (11:20) 
    • How insulin spikes impact aging. (16:39) 
    • Simple dietary practices for better health. (19:59) 
    • How to understand the human body’s adaptation processes. (32:10) 
    • The link between toxins and aging. (40:12) 
    • How to take control of the chemicals coming into your household. (43:13) 
    • Dr. Pompa’s story of turning pain into purpose. (53:26) 
    • How to support your body’s detoxification process. (1:00:13) 
    • The connection between endocrine disruptors and weight loss resistance. (1:02:02) 
    • What the 5 Rs of cellular detox are. (1:06:12) 

    Items mentioned in this episode include: 

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

    This episode of The Model Health Show is brought to you by Our Place. Use my code MODEL at themodelhealthshow.com/ourplace for 10% off toxin-free, ceramic coated cookware.

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

    18 February 2026, 3:00 am
  • 1 hour 5 minutes
    Real Fat-Burning Foods! Science-Backed Foods That Improve Your Metabolism - With Dr. William Li

    What if I told you that eating certain foods that could help your body burn fat? On today’s show, you’re going to learn the exact science behind this process, including the specific ways that certain foods can aid in fat loss, and what to eat if your goal is to lose body fat.

    On this episode of The Model Health Show, you’re going to hear from world-renowned physician and scientist, Dr. William Li, on how to eat to optimize your metabolism. Dr. Li is an expert on the intersection of nutrition and human health. Today he’s sharing the exact science behind how certain foods affect your metabolism and ability to lose body fat.

    I’m also sharing five science-backed foods that can help you lose more body fat, and the best ways to incorporate these fat-burning foods into your existing routine. This episode is full of powerful science and simple, accessible ways to improve your health from the inside out. So click play and enjoy!  

    In this episode you’ll discover: 

    • What body fat actually is, and its purpose. (2:42)  
    • How overeating affects your fat cells. (8:42) 
    • The process behind how fat can become inflammatory. (10:23) 
    • Which specific foods have anti-angiogenesis properties. (12:54) 
    • The truth about eating soy. (14:13) 
    • How curcumin helps the body burn fat. (22:24) 
    • Why whole foods are often like a Swiss army knife. (26:18) 
    • The science of stem cells inside your body fat. (27:40) 
    • How the compound hydroxytyrosol can reprogram stem cells. (32:46) 
    • The connection between the immune system and the metabolism. (43:03) 
    • How eating avocados can help you lose more belly fat. (52:57) 
    • The metabolic benefits of eating lean fish. (57:39) 
    • How to add more sweet potatoes into your diet. (1:02:42) 

    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 and Pique. 

    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.   

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

    16 February 2026, 3:00 am
  • 1 hour 26 minutes
    4 Powerful Ways to Rewire Your Brain for Confidence, Overcome Self-Doubt, & Fuel Bigger Success - With Dr. Shadé Zahrai

    Your self-image shapes your decisions, your perspective and your outcomes. And because your self-image is formed from a very young age, it can be difficult to change the habits, thoughts, and patterns that have been ingrained for decades. Today, you’re going to learn a proven framework for improving your self-image and overcoming self-doubt.  

    On this episode of The Model Health Show, our guest is behavioral researcher and educator, Dr. Shadé Zahrai. She’s here to share science-backed strategies for shaping your self-image from her new book, Big Trust. You’re going to discover how to rewire self-doubt, how to build confidence, and how transforming your self-image can help you reach your potential.  

    Specifically, we’re going to discuss the four inner attributes that could be holding you back, and how to sharpen them to improve your self-esteem, mindset, and overall personal growth. Dr. Shadé is an absolute expert in helping folks break free from the mindset blocks that are holding them back. If you’re ready to take control of your inner world so you can improve your relationships, decision making, and more, this episode is for you. Enjoy!   


    In this episode you’ll discover: 

    • The connection between confidence and well-being. (3:29) 

    • Why you need to take action to develop confidence. (3:49) 

    • What self-image is. (8:21) 

    • The truth about changing your personality. (10:58) 

    • What the most common self-doubt is, and where it originates from. (13:10)  

    • Four main signs that you struggle with self-acceptance. (15:51) 

    • How having a creative hobby can help improve your self-esteem. (18:57) 

    • The power in simply delaying a decision. (29:51)  

    • What imposter syndrome is and how to reframe it. (37:26) 

    • How pursuing discomfort can activate BDNF. (43:18) 

    • Why comparison can be a sign that you struggle with agency. (47:31) 

    • What autonomy is and how it relates to self-doubt. (59:13) 

    • How microdosing hard things can get you out of your comfort zone. (1:05:05)  

    • Signs you might be struggling with adaptability. (1:15:37)

    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 Organifi and LMNT.  


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

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

    11 February 2026, 3:00 am
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