The Model Health Show

Shawn Stevenson

  • 1 hour 20 minutes
    Fat Loss Scientists Reveal How to Burn Fat and Build Muscle FASTER

    There is an important distinction between weight loss and fat loss, and this key difference is often overlooked in our culture of quick fixes. Focusing exclusively on reducing excess body fat will improve your health, optimize your metabolism, and help you look better and live longer. Today, you’re going to learn exactly what it takes to lose body fat. 

    On this compilation episode of The Model Health Show, you’re going to learn from four of the world’s leading fat loss scientists on how to effectively, safely, and healthily lose excess body fat. We’re featuring interviews from incredible researchers, professors, and medical doctors who have tons of knowledge and experience on healthy and sustainable fat loss. 

    You’re going to learn about the specific ingredients and action steps that are necessary for losing body fat, the importance of preserving healthy muscle while losing weight, and how to optimize your metabolic health. Most importantly, you’ll hear how to set yourself for success and longevity while striving toward your body composition goals. This compilation episode is full of tangible takeaways that will lead to lasting results, so click play and enjoy the show! 

    In this episode you’ll discover:

    • How being sleep deprived can impact your fat loss efforts. (2:40)
    • Why the scale going down isn’t always a good thing. (7:07)
    • What muscle is, and its critical role in regulating metabolic health. (8:58)
    • Why you must prioritize preserving muscle during weight loss. (10:21)
    • The two most powerful anabolic stimuli. (14:27)
    • How elevated insulin levels impact fat cells. (31:54)
    • What the three primary causes of insulin resistance are. (36:17)
    • How each macronutrient affects insulin. (39:53)
    • The role your muscle mass has in predicting your survivability. (53:45)
    • What chubby muscles are and how they occur. (55:30)
    • The health benefits of simply going for a post-meal walk. (58:38)
    • What collateral fattening is and how to avoid it. (1:08:19)
    • The minimum effective dose of strength training for muscle hypertrophy. (1:17:59)

    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 Wild Pastures.

    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.  

    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.  

    8 April 2026, 2:40 am
  • 49 minutes 20 seconds
    The Hidden Hormone Shift Driving Chronic Disease in Women - With Dr. Jessica Shepard

    For decades, the transition of perimenopause and menopause has largely been ignored. But thanks to emerging data and passionate experts, the conversation is starting to shift and expand. Today, you’re going to learn about the hormones involved in menopause and their relationship to other health conditions. 

    Our guest, Dr. Jessica Shepherd is a board-certified OB/GYN, author, and leading voice in women’s health and longevity. Dr. Shepherd joins this episode of The Model Health Show for an important conversation on how women can thrive throughout perimenopause and menopause. She’s sharing science-backed insights from her book, Generation M. 

    In this interview, you’re going to learn about the health issues that women experience throughout perimenopause and menopause, and how to ease symptoms through lifestyle-based recommendations. Dr. Shepherd is a true expert on the latest data surrounding menopause, and I know you’re going to find value in her accessible approach. So click play and enjoy the show! 

    In this episode you’ll discover:

    • What percentage of American adults have a chronic disease. (0:26)
    • The three main reasons why women are more susceptible to certain health issues. (2:46)
    • Why the perimenopausal phase is like a dimmer switch. (6:41)
    • The importance of body awareness during perimenopause. (7:51)
    • How hormones are linked to cardiovascular disease. (10:00)
    • What women need to know about osteoporosis. (13:17)
    • The critical role of strength training for women. (16:59)
    • How the thyroid is affected by hormonal shifts in menopause. (18:02)
    • The connection between the thyroid, hot flashes, and menopause. (19:40)
    • How metabolic syndrome can be caused by perimenopause and menopause. (22:28) 
    • The benefits of hormone replacement therapy. (27:51)
    • Why sleep is critical during perimenopause and menopause. (30:52)
    • Dr. Shepherd’s prescription for diet and exercise for women in mid-life. (39:07)

    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 Paleovalley. 

    For a limited time only, save up to 40% OFF during Our Place’s spring sale. Use my code MODEL at themodelhealthshow.com/ourplace. 

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

    6 April 2026, 2:00 am
  • 31 minutes 46 seconds
    3 Underrated Exercises to Burn Fat & Build Muscle (No Gym Needed!)

    Building a strong and functional body goes beyond your basic bench press or logging miles on a treadmill. If you want to have a fitter body that will carry you through a long, healthy life, there are a few ways you should be supplementing your existing training regimen. 

    On this episode of The Model Health Show, you’re going to learn about three underrated exercises you need to take advantage of. These functional exercises are widely overlooked and can help you build a durable body. They are also time-tested, scientifically proven, and at the root of human health and evolution. 

    If you’re ready to transform your fitness, lower your risk of chronic disease, and improve balance and mobility, this episode is going to help you build a more robust, well-rounded routine. So click play and enjoy the show! 

    In this episode you’ll discover:

    • The history of jumping rope. (0:46) 
    • Which muscles are strengthened by jumping rope. (1:40)
    • How jumping rope has been proven to improve bone density. (1:58)
    • The science behind how jumping rope aids in fat loss. (3:20)
    • What isometric exercises are. (8:36)
    • How isometric exercises can strengthen your tendons. (9:12)
    • Specific isometric exercises you can incorporate into your training. (12:17)
    • Why walking with weight is an essential human input. (23:31)
    • The benefits of walking while carrying weight. (23:54)
    • How to start adding more weighted walks into your existing routine. (26:20)

    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 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. 

    1 April 2026, 2:16 am
  • 1 hour 25 minutes
    The Truth About Building Muscle on a Plant-Based Diet - With Torre Washington

    In many fitness spaces, particularly in the world of bodybuilding, it is widely believed that protein-dense animal foods are the only way to build significant muscle. But today’s guest is here to challenge conventional beliefs about what it takes to create a strong and muscular physique. 

    Torre Washington is an IFBB Pro bodybuilder and NASM-certified coach who has built a championship-level physique on an exclusively plant-based diet. He is also a speaker and a pioneer in the space of vegan athletics. Torre is passionate about helping others perform at a high level with an intentional lifestyle. 

    In this interview, you’re going to hear about the details of Torre’s training regimen and nutrition plan. Specifically, you’ll learn how he got started in the world of bodybuilding, how his approach to protein and macronutrients has shifted over time, and what it takes to build a strong, healthy physique. I hope you enjoy this conversation with Torre Washington! 

    In this episode you’ll discover:

    • How Torre got interested in bodybuilding. (5:23)
    • Why fitness allowed Torre to serve others. (13:14)
    • The history of why Torre eats a plant-based diet. (20:54)
    • How counting macros changed Torre’s results. (26:46)
    • The high protein plant-based foods Torre added to his diet. (32:34)
    • How embracing his age helped Torre in competitions. (34:48)
    • What Torre’s workouts look like today. (42:14)
    • The importance of building a mind-muscle connection. (43:59)
    • What dropsets are, and their benefit. (57:19)
    • The importance of adding recovery protocols into your routine. (1:04:11)

    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.

    30 March 2026, 2:00 am
  • 1 hour 8 minutes
    How Artificial Intelligence is Making Humans Dumber & How to Robot-Proof Your Brain - With Dr. Vivienne Ming

    As the use of artificial intelligence has absolutely exploded in recent years, there are some important questions we should be asking ourselves. How can using AI impact things like our brain and our creativity? And is it possible to use AI for good? Today, our guest is going to help answer these questions. 

    Dr. Vivienne Ming is a theoretical neuroscientist and author. Her new book, Robot-Proof, is a guide to navigating today’s automated world. On this episode of The Model Health Show, Dr. Ming is here for a fascinating discussion on how AI and social media impact our biology, our cognition, our kids, and society-at-large. 

    You’re going to learn about the pros and cons of using AI, why you shouldn’t outsource your ability to think, how to develop more curiosity, and the important role of having a sense of purpose. Dr. Ming’s work is all about helping humans thrive in a way that can’t be replicated by AI, and I know you’re going to find her insights invaluable. I hope you enjoy this episode of The Model Health Show!  

    In this episode you’ll discover:

    • The pros and cons of artificial intelligence. (4:19) 
    • What percentage of people turn their brains off when using AI. (8:08)
    • The importance of cognitive effort in preventing cognitive decline. (9:39)
    • How automated navigation could lead to increased rates of dementia. (13:37)
    • Why we need to find a balance between shallow and deep thinking. (15:35)
    • An important distinction between thinking and understanding. (28:54)
    • How to use AI to grow and thrive. (34:24)
    • The best way to use AI to improve your creativity. (42:11)
    • Why having a strong sense of purpose is more important than ever. (55:18)
    • How to become more valuable as a human in the age of AI. (56:58)

    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 Beekeeper’s Naturals. 

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

    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.

    25 March 2026, 2:00 am
  • 36 minutes 55 seconds
    Can Thick Thighs Really Save Lives?

    Today, we’re going to dive into the science of what your leg size and strength can tell you about your overall health. Your legs can be an important indicator of what’s happening with your cardiovascular health, cognitive health, and more. Specifically, you’re going to hear studies that back up the saying, “thick thighs save lives.” 

    On this episode of The Model Health Show, we’re diving into the science of how your thigh circumference and strength can influence your health outcomes. You’re going to learn about the connection between thigh size and cardiovascular health, how having more leg power can help you live longer, and how your leg strength can predict cognitive aging. 

    We’re also going to cover four science backed tips you can use to build a stronger lower body, including specific exercises and nutrition tips you can implement into your existing routine. This episode is full of interesting studies and actionable tips. Click play and enjoy the show! 

    In this episode you’ll discover:

    • The interesting link between thigh circumference and blood pressure. (0:57)
    • How thigh fat and visceral fat differ. (3:52)
    • Which muscles make up half of the muscle mass in your body. (4:40)
    • How the strength of your quads can predict your longevity. (5:18)
    • The connection between leg power and cognitive health. (6:40)
    • What the largest skeletal muscle is. (10:23)
    • The role your glutes play in glucose disposal and insulin sensitivity. (11:45)
    • What your waist-to-hip ratio can tell you about your health. (14:33)
    • The importance of training your lower body. (16:28) 
    • Specific exercises you can use to build lower body strength. (18:08)
    • The link between adiponectin and metabolic health. (25:00)
    • How to structure your macronutrients to build muscle. (32:06)

    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. 

    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.

    23 March 2026, 2:00 am
  • 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)

    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 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)

    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 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:

    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 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)

    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.

    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: 

    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 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
  • More Episodes? Get the App