
Advertise on podcast: Mads Friis Podcast
Rating
5from
This podcast has
128 episodes
Language
EnglishPublisher
Growth IslandExplicit
Yes
Date created
2018/09/15
Latest episode
2026/07/15
Average duration
54 min.
Release period
104 days
Description
Growth Island is a podcast about how to become and be the best version of yourself. The focus is on strategies, tools, and blueprints for a meaningful life. I interview high performers and experts within nutrition, meditation, exercise, relationships, business, general health and lifes bigger mysteries. More info at www.growthisland.com
Unlock Mads Friis Podcast podcast Email contact info,
Listeners & Audience details
Email contact information
Direct podcast contact details

Listeners
Audience numbers & engagement insights

Audience details
Podcast Insights

Podcast episodes
Check latest episodes from Mads Friis Podcast podcast
Why This Water Experiment Shocks Scientists | Nikolaj Blom
2026/07/15
In this episode, scientist and researcher Nikolaj Blom explores one of the most fascinating and controversial areas of modern physics: the true nature of water. Through the famous floating water bridge experiment, he explains why some researchers believe our current understanding of water may be incomplete, how coherent water structures form, and what this could mean for biology, technology, and human health. Nikolaj Blom is a scientist and researcher with a background in microbiology, DNA research, electromagnetic frequencies, and coherent water science. His work focuses on emerging areas of physics and biology, including the effects of electromagnetic fields on bacteria, liquid water structures, and coherence in biological systems. He explains: ◻️ The floating water bridge experiment that appears to defy the traditional understanding of physics. ◻️ Why purified water can organize itself into stable structures under high voltage. ◻️ The growing scientific theory that liquid water may exist in multiple dynamic states simultaneously. ◻️ Why the classical model of water as isolated H2O molecules may be incomplete. ◻️ How water molecules may behave collectively, similar to swarms of birds moving as one synchronized system. ◻️ How electromagnetic frequencies were successfully used to inhibit bacterial growth without chemicals. ◻️ Why many breakthrough scientific discoveries are initially ridiculed before becoming accepted. ◻️ The surprising role crystals play inside radios, smartphones, frequency transmission, and LCD screens. ◻️ How emerging water research could reshape future discussions around biology, medicine, and human performance. ⏱ TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – The Water Experiment Physics Can't Explain 00:47 – The Origins of the Floating Water Bridge Experiment 02:33 – Why Pure Water Changes Everything 04:24 – The Water Bridge Forms Live on Camera 05:01 – Why Water May Be More Than H2O 06:08 – Water Molecules Acting Like One Organism 07:55 – How This Could Change Science & Human Health 14:41 – The “Fourth Phase” of Water Explained 17:39 – Why Nikolaj Uses the Term “Coherent Water” 27:08– Why Smartphones Depend on Liquid Crystals 29:19 – Could Crystals Influence Human Biology? 32:17 – Why Water Research Changed Nikolaj's Career 33:08 – How Coherent Water Could Affect the Human Body 35:30 – Measuring Human Electromagnetic Fields 36:18 – Could Frequencies Be Used for Healing? 38:44 – The “Power Pack” Water Technology Explained 40:05 – Why Some Companies Quietly Use This Technology 42:34 – The Device Nikolaj Wears Near His Heart 44:30 – Can Ordinary People Buy These Water Devices? 46:13 – The Theory Behind Coherent Water Bottles 47:32 – Placebo, Nocebo & the Power of Belief 49:00 – Can Human Intention Affect Water? 51:09 – The Famous Water Crystal Experiments 52:34 – Communicating With Water: Science or Myth? 54:17 – How Gratitude May Influence Human Frequency 01:03:35 – Hydrogen Water & Potential Health Effects 01:05:00 – Why Nikolaj Jumps Into Cold Water Year-Round 01:06:33 – How Water Research Could Change Green Technology 01:08:02 – Where To Find Nikolaj Blom Follow Nikolaj Blom: Research / Publications: https://independent.academia.edu/Niko... DTU Research: https://www.dtu.dk/english/news/all-n... Mads Friis - Growth Island:
Mads Friis Website: https://www.madsfriis.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madsmfriis LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/madsmfriis
Growth Island
Website: https://www.growthisland.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegrowthisland/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/growthisland.madsfriis
YouTube Shorts: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9Q0ij-HEj7XcMfJPthbb2A/videos
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/dk/podcast/growth-island/id1436400072
SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/growthisland
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/growth-island
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Iw8IvNKwDEs5Rg7YWaJnP
The Morning Smoothie Blueprint for Men: Science-Backed Ingredients for Longevity | Umahro Cadogan
2026/04/22
Why do most people struggle with energy, focus, and health as they age?In this episode, I sit down with Umahro Cadogan, a world-renowned Functional Medicine expert, to discuss the simple yet powerful habits that define long-term vitality.Umahro breaks down the "600g Rule": the minimum amount of vegetables, berries, and fruits required to slash your risk of chronic disease, and why falling short by just 100g can shorten your life. We dive deep into the science of morning smoothies, the truth about glucose spikes, and how to distinguish between real health advice and social media noise.He shares:◻️Why a morning smoothie is the ultimate "all-in-one" solution for men's health.◻️The 600g rule: The exact amount of produce you need to prevent premature ageing. ◻️Why being "afraid of fruit" is scientifically unfounded and dangerous. ◻️The truth about CGMs and why normal glucose variation is being mislabeled as "toxic." ◻️How to hit the 1.6g/kg protein threshold for muscle maintenance and longevity. ◻️The "Biohacker Bias": Why many health influencers are giving advice that doesn't apply to you. ◻️The 3 nuts that create the creamiest plant-based smoothies (without the "plant" taste). ◻️Why health is ultimately a form of self-love and communication with your body. ⏱ Timestamps: 0:00 - Why morning smoothies are a game-changer. 01:00 - The 600g Rule: The minimum dose for a longer life. 02:30 - Debunking the "Fruit is Dangerous" myth. 04:15 - The Truth About Glucose Spikes and CGMs. 06:30 - Single Factor Thinking: The biggest mistake in modern health. 08:15 - The Blueprint for a High-Performance Smoothie. 09:30 - Protein Science: 1.6g/kg, Whey vs. Plant, and "Protein Farts." 12:30 - Quality Control: Arsenic in rice protein and third-party testing. 15:15 - The Digestive Dilemma: Low stomach acid and bloating. 17:30 - Healthy Fats: Nuts, seeds, and the MCT Oil debate. 19:30 - Brain Energy: How ketones and MCTs affect peak performance. 22:30 - Frozen vs. Fresh: Which is actually more nutritious? 25:00 - The Berry Bacteria Scare: Risk management and organic choices. 29:00 - Liquid Bases: The truth about Oat Milk and emulsifiers. 35:30 - How to make plant-based smoothies taste like dairy. 38:30 - The "Pre-Pack" Hack: Prepping a week of health in 10 minutes. 41:30 - Oxalates and Kidney Stones: Should you be worried? 44:30 - The Biohacker Bias: Why "sick person" advice is hurting healthy people. 48:30 - Umahro's Top 3 Smoothie Recipes for Taste and Vitality.52:30 - The Executive Longevity Program and Umahro's upcoming book. 54:30 - The Philosophy of Self-Love: Health as a dialogue with your body.Follow Umahro:Website: https://umahro.dkLinkedIn: https://dk.linkedin.com/in/oscarumahrocadoganInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/umahro/Mads Friis - Growth Island:Mads FriisWebsite: https://www.madsfriis.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/madsmfriisLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/madsmfriisGrowth IslandWebsite: https://www.growthisland.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegrowthisland/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/growthisland.madsfriisYouTube Shorts: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9Q0ij-HEj7XcMfJPthbb2A/videosApple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/dk/podcast/growth-island/id1436400072SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/growthislandLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/growth-islandSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Iw8IvNKwDEs5Rg7YWaJnP
Warning: The Hidden Trap High Performers Fall Into — Multi-Venture Entrepreneur Mik Strøyberg Reveals
2026/03/25
Why do people with beautiful families, thriving careers, and financial freedom still feel unhappy?
Mik Strøyberg breaks down the paradox of modern achievement, why hitting every external milestone often creates an internal collapse, and how redefining values - not goals - reshapes the entire trajectory of a man’s life. This episode is a deep dive into meaning, belonging, and the cost of a life lived out of alignment.
He shares:
◻️ The moment Mik fainted in his living room - and how it exposed the hidden burnout he ignored for years.
◻️ How success, status, and constant performance turned him into someone he didn’t recognize.
◻️ The emotional cost of ambition: loneliness, overextension, and the pressure to be "on" all the time.
◻️ The move to Sri Lanka - and why leaving everything behind was the right way to rebuild.
◻️ The identity shift from high-achieving founder to present father and grounded human being.
◻️ Why high performers stay miserable even when they have everything.
◻️ The dangerous pattern of pretending everything is fine while burning out internally.
◻️ How environment, pace, and culture reshape your nervous system - for better or worse.
◻️ The lifestyle reset: walking 20,000 steps, prioritizing sleep, cutting noise, and reclaiming clarity.
◻️ The questions every ambitious man must ask himself before it's too late.
⏱ Timestamps:
00:00 — Introduction
03:10 — The fainting episode that exposed the truth behind Mik’s burnout
07:25 — Building international companies while losing himself
12:40 — The emotional toll of trying to be “the successful guy”
16:55 — The moment he realized his life was no longer his own
22:10 — Moving to Sri Lanka and rewiring identity from scratch
27:50 — What high performers never admit about happiness
33:05 — Resetting life through movement, sleep, and simplicity
38:20 — Becoming a present father and redefining success
44:15 — The dangerous pattern behind high-achiever burnout
Follow Mik:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stroyberg/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikstroyberg/
Mads Friis - Growth Island:
Mads Friis
Website: https://www.madsfriis.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madsmfriis
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/madsmfriis
Growth Island
Website: https://www.growthisland.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegrowthisland/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/growthisland.madsfriis
YouTube Shorts: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9Q0ij-HEj7XcMfJPthbb2A/videos
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/dk/podcast/growth-island/id1436400072
SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/growthisland
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/growth-island
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Iw8IvNKwDEs5Rg7YWaJnP
The Testosterone Crisis Nobody Talks About | Dr. Pia Norup, MD on Men’s Hormone Health
2026/03/04
Many men assume losing energy, focus, and drive is just part of getting older but in reality, it often reflects biological changes that can be understood and addressed early.
In this episode, Medical Doctor Pia Norup explains why modern lifestyles are quietly disrupting hormonal balance and long-term health in men. From chronic stress to declining testosterone, this conversation explores the biological shifts that often go unnoticed until performance and wellbeing begin to suffer.
This is a practical and science-informed discussion about male health and why understanding your biology is essential for maintaining strength, clarity, and resilience over time.
She explains:
◻️ Why many men experience declining energy earlier than expected
◻️ The hidden impact of chronic stress on male hormones
◻️ Why testosterone influences more than physical strength
◻️ The early warning signs most men overlook
◻️ Why symptoms are often mistaken for normal aging
◻️ The role of prevention in long-term health
◻️ Why personalized health strategies matter
◻️ How hormones influence performance and recovery
◻️ Why many men wait too long to take action
◻️ The foundations of long-term male resilience
Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction
02:05 – Why many men ignore early symptoms
05:10 – The hidden role of hormones in performance
08:20 – Stress and modern lifestyle pressures
12:00 – Signs your biology is changing
16:15 – Why decline is often normalized
20:30 – Hormones, energy, and mental clarity
24:40 – The importance of early testing
28:10 – Prevention vs late treatment
32:05 – Understanding your personal biology
36:20 – Long-term health and resilience
40:15 – Taking responsibility for your health
44:10 – What sustainable health really means
48:05 – Final thoughts and key takeaways
Follow Pia:
Website: https://www.pianorup.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pia-norup/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pianorup/
Mads Friis - Growth Island:
Mads Friis
Website: https://www.madsfriis.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madsmfriis
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/madsmfriis
Growth Island
Website: https://www.growthisland.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegrowthisland/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/growthisland.madsfriis
YouTube Shorts: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9Q0ij-HEj7XcMfJPthbb2A/videos
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/dk/podcast/growth-island/id1436400072
SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/growthisland
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/growth-island
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Iw8IvNKwDEs5Rg7YWaJnP
Why Most Longevity Advice Fails: Chris Moore Reveals
2026/02/18
Longevity is no longer about living longer, it’s about avoiding the slow decline most people mistake for “normal aging.”
In this episode, Chris Moore, a leading voice in longevity medicine and preventative health, breaks down what modern longevity science actually supports and what the industry often gets wrong. From over-optimizing biomarkers to chasing endless data, this conversation cuts through the noise to reveal what truly drives long-term health, resilience, and quality of life.
This is a grounded, science-led discussion about longevity without obsession and why the goal isn’t more years, but better ones.
He explains:
◻️ Why most longevity strategies focus on the wrong outcomes
◻️ The difference between lifespan, healthspan, and performance over time
◻️ How over-tracking and biohacking can quietly backfire
◻️ What longevity medicine actually looks for before disease appears
◻️ Why “more data” doesn’t always mean better health decisions
◻️ How to think about aging as a system not a problem to hack
◻️ What high performers misunderstand about longevity and control
◻️ The principles that matter most for long-term resilience
◻️ How to approach longevity with clarity instead of anxiety
Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction
02:10 – The difference between living longer vs living better 05:05 – When longevity optimization becomes obsession 08:30 – Healthspan, lifespan, and why most people chase the wrong metric
12:20 – The hidden risks of over-tracking biomarkers
16:10 – What longevity medicine actually looks for before disease appears
20:45 – Why more data doesn’t automatically mean better health decisions
25:30 – The psychological cost of trying to control aging
30:10 – How high performers misinterpret longevity and optimization
34:55 – Aging as a system, not a problem to “hack”
39:20 – The principles that truly support long-term resilience 44:10 – Longevity without anxiety: clarity over control
48:30 – Final reflections and key takeaways
Follow Chris:
Website: https://nordicgroup.eu/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/chris-moore-a112b91/
Mads Friis - Growth Island:
Mads Friis
Website: https://www.madsfriis.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madsmfriis
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/madsmfriis
Growth Island
Website: https://www.growthisland.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegrowthisland/
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/growthisland.madsfriis
YouTube Shorts: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9Q0ij-HEj7XcMfJPthbb2A/videos
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/dk/podcast/growth-island/id1436400072
SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/growthisland
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/growth-island
Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/3Iw8IvNKwDEs5Rg7YWaJnP
This Marker Predicts Aging, Disease, and Early Death: Scientist Jesper Eugen-Olsen Reveals
2026/01/14
What if the biggest threat to your performance, longevity, and clarity isn’t age but something silently building inside you?
In this episode, biochemist and biomarker scientist Jesper Eugen-Olsen breaks down the hidden role of chronic inflammation in disease risk, biological aging, and long-term health outcomes. This conversation challenges how high performers think about strength, resilience, and optimization and reveals why true longevity starts with understanding what’s happening beneath the surface.
If you care about healthspan, mental sharpness, and staying strong for decades not just years this episode will reframe how you think about your body, performance, and future.
He explains:
◻️ Why chronological age tells you almost nothing about your real health risk
◻️ The difference between lifespan and healthspan—and why most people optimize the wrong one
◻️ How chronic, low-grade inflammation quietly drives disease and accelerates aging
◻️ Why inflammation is a risk amplifier across cardiovascular, metabolic, and neurological disease
◻️ The science behind suPAR and why it’s changing how clinicians assess biological risk
◻️ Why aging is still not classified as a disease—and what that means for prevention
◻️ How high-performing lifestyles can unknowingly increase biological stress
◻️ The problem with chasing longevity hacks instead of addressing root causes
◻️ Why resilience is as much biological as it is psychological
◻️ What leaders and high performers should track if they care about long-term clarity and performance
⏱ Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction
03:15 – Biological age vs chronological age explained
07:40 – Chronic inflammation as a common driver of disease
12:20 – What suPAR reveals about long-term health risk
18:05 – Why inflammation predicts outcomes better than symptoms
23:50 – Aging, disease classification, and medical blind spots
30:10 – Healthspan vs lifespan: where high performers go wrong
36:45 – The limits of supplements and longevity optimization
43:20 – What this means for leaders, athletes, and entrepreneurs
49:10 – Final insights on resilience, risk, and sustainable performance
Follow Jesper:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesper-eugen-olsen-1646142/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jesper_eugen/
Website: https://www.virogates.com/
Growth Island-Mads Friis:
Mads Friis
Website: https://www.madsfriis.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madsmfriis
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/madsmfriis
Growth Island
Website: https://www.growthisland.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegrowthisland/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/growthisland.madsfriis
YouTube Shorts: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9Q0ij-HEj7XcMfJPthbb2A/videos
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/dk/podcast/growth-island/id1436400072
SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/growthisland
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/growth-island
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Iw8IvNKwDEs5Rg7YWaJnP
Neuroscientist Mikael Palner's Warning: The Dark Side of The Psychedelic Renaissance
2025/12/03
In this episode, researcher Mikael Palner reveals the surprising science behind the psychedelic renaissance, how compounds like psilocybin create a "window of opportunity" to rewire the brain for creativity and healing, and the unspoken dangers of "hero doses," emotional addiction, and the shocking risks of long-term microdosing.
Dr. Mikael Palner is a neuroscientist with over 15 years of experience in psychedelic research and advanced preclinical brain imaging. He leads his own research team investigating how psychedelic drugs impact neuronal circuits in the brain and has been awarded prestigious grants from the Danish Independent Research Foundation and the Danish Innovation Fund for his work.
He explains:
◻️️ The real reason psychedelics were banned for decades and why they're exploding in popularity now.
◻️ The surprising scientific difference between DMT, psilocybin (mushrooms), and LSD.
◻️ How psychedelics create a temporary "window of plasticity" to permanently rewire your brain and habits.
◻️ The unspoken truth about addiction: the difference between physical dependency and the "emotional addiction" many users experience.
◻️ Why a "hero dose" can be a dangerous mistake and how a proper therapeutic dose is determined.
◻️ The chilling risk that psychedelics can create traumatic memories of events that never actually happened.
◻️ The long-term dangers of microdosing and why being in a constant state of brain plasticity is like having a "teenager brain".
◻️ The future of mental health: how scientists are trying to create non-psychedelic versions of these compounds to treat anxiety.
◻️Why anxiety may be the real epidemic of our time—and the top five tools anyone can use to manage it.
⏱ Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction
02:15 – The most surprising discovery about psychedelics
04:00 – Why research stopped for decades (and the failed CIA experiments)
08:00 – Breathwork, DMT, and natural psychedelic states
12:00 – Categories of psychedelics: mushrooms, LSD, mescaline, MDMA & ketamine
16:00 – Brain plasticity, learning windows, and long-term effects
20:00 – The risk of emotional addiction and the problem with “47 ayahuasca trips”
24:00 – Hero doses vs therapeutic doses: where science draws the line
28:00 – Inside clinical trials: psilocybin, LSD, and ketamine in therapy
36:00 – Psychedelics vs alcohol: which is more damaging?
40:00 – What science knows (and doesn’t) about microdosing long-term
44:00 – False memories, trauma, and the dark side of psychedelics
48:00 – New brain scanners, rodent studies & reducing psychedelic risks
52:00 – Who funds psychedelic research and the million-dollar machines behind it
56:00 – Anxiety as a global epidemic and why it affects 60% of people
58:00 – The 5 tools everyone can use to manage anxiety
Follow Mikael:
Website: https://www.palnerlab.org/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikaelpalner/
Growth Island-Mads Friis:
Mads Friis
Website: https://www.madsfriis.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madsmfriis
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/madsmfriis
Growth Island
Website: https://www.growthisland.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegrowthisland/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/growthisland.madsfriis
YouTube Shorts: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9Q0ij-HEj7XcMfJPthbb2A/videos
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/dk/podcast/growth-island/id1436400072
SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/growthisland
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/growth-island
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Iw8IvNKwDEs5Rg7YWaJnP
World Champion Niclas Larsen: Mastering Fear, Resilience & True Toughness—Revealed!
2025/08/28
In this episode, World Champion fighter and performance coach Niclas Larsen reveals the untold truths about resilience, fear, and the warrior mindset. From nearly losing his leg to capturing world titles, Niclas shares the rituals, inner battles, and mental frameworks that forged his path back to glory — and how those same lessons apply far beyond the ring. This is not just a story about fighting, but about how every man can rise stronger when life hits hardest.
Niclas Larsen is a professional Muay Thai fighter, kickboxer, and Mental & Performance Coach. He became the IMC World Super Welterweight Champion in 2020 and the WBC Muay Thai World Super Welterweight Champion in 2021. Today, he helps men, entrepreneurs, leaders, and troubled youth harness resilience, overcome fear, and activate their inner warrior in life and business.
He explains:
◻️ How nearly losing his leg reshaped his entire perspective on life and performance.
◻️ Why resilience is built in silence, not in the spotlight.
◻️ The secret rituals that give him calm before chaos.
◻️ How to turn fear and aggression into your greatest strengths.
◻️ Why most men misunderstand toughness — and what true strength really is.
◻️ How lessons from the ring translate directly into business and leadership.
◻️ The mindset shift that separates those who break from those who rise.
◻️ Why finding peace in pain is the ultimate edge.
⏱ Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction
01:21 – What toughness really means and why emotions matter
05:21 – Brave, strong, and walking in with confidence: pre-fight mindset
09:16 – The “life mantra” Niclas uses to switch state on command
13:35 – The exact words he repeats to center himself under pressure
25:00 – Near-amputation: the hospital moment that changed everything
26:23 – Rehabilitation: forced pause, relearning to walk, rebuilding identity
29:59 – The mental tool he relies on to regain control fast
34:50 – Beyond “just change your mindset”: a body-first route to calm
47:02- Niclas advice to his 10 year old self.
49:27 – Growth until the very end: Niclas’ mantra for life and legacy
Follow Niclas:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/niclasrlarsen/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/niclas-ricky-larsen-907074235/
Growth Island-Mads Friis:
Mads Friis
Website: https://www.madsfriis.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madsmfriis
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/madsmfriis
Growth Island
Website: https://www.growthisland.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegrowthisland/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/growthisland.madsfriis
YouTube Shorts: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9Q0ij-HEj7XcMfJPthbb2A/videos
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/dk/podcast/growth-island/id1436400072
SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/growthisland
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/growth-island
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Iw8IvNKwDEs5Rg7YWaJnP
Sleep Expert, Daniel Gartenberg: The Truth About Sleep Tracking That Big Tech Won't Tell You
2025/08/13
In this episode, world-renowned sleep scientist Dr. Daniel Gartenberg reveals the surprising truths behind sleep tracking, the real science of deep sleep, and how common mistakes are silently wrecking your recovery, and the future tech of sleep.
Dr. Daniel Gartenberg is a sleep scientist and the founder and CEO of SleepSpace, where he develops innovative solutions to improve sleep quality and health. He is also the Senior Sleep Health Advisor to CPAP.com. With a PhD in cognitive psychology from George Mason University and over 15 years in sleep research, he has secured more than $3.5 million in grants from the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Aging.
He explains:
◻️️Why chasing a "perfect sleep score" can actually ruin your sleep.
◻️The #1 mistake people make with sleep trackers and how to fix it.
◻️Hidden breathing issues that silently damage your deep sleep and health.
◻️How wearable accuracy works — and what big tech doesn't tell you.
◻️The surprising link between deep sleep and long-term brain health.
◻️Future breakthroughs in sleep technology over the next 5 years.
◻️How to build the ultimate nighttime routine for recovery and focus.
◻️Why melatonin isn't the magic pill you think it is.
◻️The science of waking up naturally and feeling fully recharged.
⏱ Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction
00:49 – Top tips for better sleep and building a consistent rhythm.
04:29 – Boosting deep sleep with sound tech.
06:20 – How does this small startup beat big tech companies in sleep
tracking accuracy?
08:17 – How do sleep labs measure your brainwaves and sleep stages?
12:59 – The danger of obsessing over perfect sleep scores.
21:02 – The most proven therapy for falling asleep faster and insomnia.
22:34 – How at-home tests uncovered Daniel’s hidden sleep apnea.
40:30 – Myths about night owls and sleep timing.
44:25 – Melatonin myths and better supplement options.
50:26 – Lighting and phone hacks for better sleep.
53:32 – The future of sleep tech and health startups.
Follow Daniel:
Website: sleepspace.com
Download the App: https://sleepspace.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.snooze/
ED Talk: https://shorturl.at/nFRZP
Growth Island-Mads Friis:
Mads Friis Website: https://www.madsfriis.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madsmfriis
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/madsmfriis
Growth Island Website: https://www.growthisland.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegrowthisland/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/growthisland.madsfriis
YouTube Shorts: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9Q0ij-HEj7XcMfJPthbb2A/videos
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/dk/podcast/growth-island/id1436400072
SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/growthisland
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/growth-island
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Iw8IvNKwDEs5Rg7YWaJnP
#119: Nancy Duarte - the formula the best communicators use
2022/10/04
What made Steve Jobs such a powerful communicator?
Tune into this episode of Growth Island w/ Forbes-featured communication expert/bestselling author Nancy Duarte to find out, and more how translating numbers into narratives help you win in business.
In this talk, Nancy Duarte discusses the mechanics of making great presentations, the secrets to a powerful speech, and how to communicate better with your team and stakeholders. Drawing on real-world examples from her work with clients including Apple, Nancy provides concrete tips that will make you a more persuasive and effective communicator.
If you’re someone who aspires to transform into a flawless communicator, the expert tips shared by Nancy in this episode will definitely help you grow.
Keynotes:
00:00 Coming Up
00:16 Introduction
1:33 How did Nancy get into speech and communication?
3:38 What makes a speech epic and impactful?
5:53 Nancy’s top three speeches of all time
8:03 Top tips for a great presentation
14:56 Suggestions about good presentations one can apply today
16:54 Does using busy, dense or heavy slides always work while presenting?
19:03 Common mistakes to avoid while presenting
21:20 Nancy’s experience with people’s attention span
21:45 One thing Nancy wishes she would’ve known 10 years ago
27:53 What differentiates Nancy from others in her field
28:39 How does Nancy overcomes her biggest challenges
31:03 Tips on how to communicate better with your spouse
32:39 Are we actually in heaven?
33:59 Industry misconceptions about communication that must be clarified
37:55 What does Duarte, Inc. do as a company
38:14 What does Nancy prefer doing these days
40:59 Where can people find Nancy Duarte
41:32 Three tips for a happy, healthy and meaningful life
Connect with Nancy Duarte
Twitter: www.twitter.com/nancyduarte
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/nancyduarte/
Resources
Duarte, Inc. website: https://www.duarte.com/
#118: Lassi A. Likkanen - How to Build the Best Sauna and How To Use Sauna for Health
2022/09/20
Can going to saunas four times a week save you from a severe heart attack? Researchers says YES.
In this video, we discuss the history and health benefits of saunas with Lassi A Liikkanen, author of the Amazon bestseller "The Secrets of Finnish Sauna Design". Lassi is also a renowned expert in the construction of saunas and takes us through Finland’s history and present state of sauna development and innovation.
If you're interested in learning more about saunas, this is the perfect video for you!
Keynotes:
00:00 Coming Up
00:15 Introduction
01:34 Lassi’s journey into sauna research
03:25 Health benefits of saunas
06:28 Are people always naked in Finnish saunas?
08:50 Key aspects while designing the ideal sauna
13:21 Types of heaters commonly used and why
16:19 Do electric heaters really emit negative ions?
19:03 Are the Finnish outraged about the protest against wood-burning heaters?
22:42 Quick Fire question round with Lassi about saunas
29:28 Is everyone slowly acknowledging the benefits of sauna?
31:47 Main difference between a good sauna and a bad sauna
33:42 How to ensure good ventilation in a sauna?
36:09 Lassi’s opinion on infrared and hybrid saunas
37:55 Common misconceptions about infrared saunas
39:41 Finland’s current state of sauna development and innovation
41:34 Discussing Lassi’s sauna hat
43:02 Lassi’s advice to people who want to visit saunas
45:18 Where can people find more about Lassi
46:11 Three tips for a happy, healthy and meaningful life
Connect with Lassi A. Liikkanen
Twitter: https://twitter.com/lassial
LinkedIn: https://fi.linkedin.com/in/lassial
Resources
Website: https://saunologia.fi/
#117: Dr. Wayne Hall - The New Science About Psychedelics and How to Use Them
2022/09/06
Are you curious about psychedelics and drugs? Let’s hear what the experts have to say.
In today’s episode of Growth Island, Professor Wayne Hall discusses his research into psychedelics, their potential benefits and harms, and how they might be used to help people struggling with addiction. He also comments on recent developments in the field of psychedelic research, including the increasing popularity of micro dosing.
Wayne Hall is an honorary professor at the University of Queensland's National Centre for Youth Substance Use Research. Wayne has advised the WHO on the health effects associated with cannabis use, the viability of drug substitution therapy, the scientific quality of the Swiss heroin trials, the contribution of illicit drug use to the global burden of disease, and the ethical implications of genetic and neurological addiction research.
If you’re curious about trying psychedelics and micro dosing, the sheer knowledge and guidance offered by Wayne in this episode would undoubtedly help you make a wise decision.
Keynotes:
00:00 Coming Up
00:24 Introduction
1:30 Wayne’s journey into researching about psychedelics
2:42 What are psychedelics?
4:47 Current status on research about Ayahuasca
7:35 How can psychedelics be used for treatment
10:39 Ketamine vs Psilocybin - which is safer?
12:38 The truth about microdosing
14:10 Finding the right funding for psychedelic research - easy or tough?
15:56 Who should be extra careful while trying microdosing
17:31 Where will psychedelics be viewed in society, ten years from now?
19:39 Why were psychedelics not a part of academia before?
22:37 Exploring the science-backed benefits of cannabis
28:30 Biggest challenges in psychedelic research
30:08 How to stop being addicted to illicit drugs?
34:05 What guided Wayne to reach such career heights
36:16 Three tips for a happy, healthy, and meaningful life
37:28 Where to find more about Wayne Hall
Connect with Wayne Hall
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wayne-hall
Resources
www.researchers.uq.edu.au/researcher/1067
#116: Udo Erasmus - Learn about the Fats that heal and Fats that kill
2022/08/23
Did you know that Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients that have health benefits for both mind and body?
Tune into today’s episode of Growth Island for amazing unknown facts about whether olive oils are bad for you, and much more. In this interview, Udo Erasmus, author of "Fats That Heal, Fats That Kill" and "The Omega Diet," discusses the benefits of consuming omega fats, the healthy diet he recommends, and more.
In this episode we discuss:
👉 Udo’s journey
👉 How heat affects oils
👉 Why is olive oil promoted so aggressively
👉 How industry has changed the way we eat
👉 Udo’s diet
👉 Food as a religion
👉 Good sources of omega fats
👉 And so much more…
This discussion reflects upon Canadian biochemist Udo Erasmus' commitment to educating people about the benefits of Omega fatty acids and making healthier dietary choices, which stems from his personal experiences.
Keynotes:
00:00 Coming Up
00:15 Introduction
1:28 Udo’s journey from war into fats and oils
7:01 What we get from oils
8:50 Does heat damage oils?
10:23 Why you should choose extra virgin olive oil over normal olive oil
13:15 Why is olive oil promoted heavily
19:25 How industry has changed how we cook and eat
21:32 How to cook according to Udo
25:41 Udo’s diet
28:05 Food as religion
34:05 What are the good oils
36:48 Lack of oil drys out the skin
40:27 Good sources of omega fats
47:38 Using science and principal to find truth
58:00 Where you can find Udo Erasmus
58:42 Udo’s advice for a happy, healthy and meaningful life
Connect with Udo Erasmus
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/udoerasmus/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theudoerasmus/
Resources
Udo’s Website: https://udoerasmus.com/
Udo’s book: https://www.amazon.com/Fats-That-Heal-Kill-Cholesterol/dp/0920470386
Udo’s choice website: https://www.udoschoice.com/
#115: Dr. Caroline Leaf - New Breakthroughs in Mental Health You Can Implement Tomorrow
2022/08/09
Can you stop trauma from happening?
No, sometimes it is unavoidable but what we can do is weaken and rewire the damage that it has done using your minds capacity to heal, Dr. Caroline Leaf is my guest on Growth Island this week.
Dr. Caroline Leaf is a communication pathologist and cognitive neuroscientist with a Masters and PhD in Communication Pathology and a BSc in Logopedics, specializing in cognitive and metacognitive neuropsychology. Since the early 1980s she has researched the mind-brain connection, the nature of mental health, and the formation of memory. She was one of the first in her field to study how the brain can change (neuroplasticity) with directed mind input.
Dr. Leaf is also the bestselling author of Switch on Your Brain, Think Learn Succeed, Think and Eat Yourself Smart, and many more. She teaches at academic, medical and neuroscience conferences, churches, and to various audiences around the world.
In this episode we discuss:
👉 The challenges of early neuroplasticity research
👉 The difference between the mind and brain
👉 The connection between your gut and brain
👉 How to harness the power of neuroplasticity to your advantage
👉 The 4 areas of focus of neuroplasticity
👉 And so much more…
If you find yourself struggling to heal from past trauma or just looking to improve your mind this episode gives you a better understanding of how to improve your specific situation.
Keynotes:
1:19 Caroline’s Journey
2:17 The challenges of early neuroplasticity research
5:34 The difference between mind and brain
9:40 How the gut microbiome is connected to the brain
12:40 What Dr. Leaf talks about in her new book and how to harness neuroplasticity
19:40 Concrete steps to drive neuroplasticity
27:40 The 4 areas of focus of neuroplasticity
35:14 Labeling your emotions helps you deal with it better
39:42 Caroline’s advice of how to live a happy, healthy and meaningful life
42:00 Where to find Dr. Caroline Leaf
Connect with Dr. Caroline Leaf
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drleaf
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drcarolineleaf/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrCarolineLeaf
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/DrCarolineLeaf/videos
Resources
Dr. Caroline Leaf’s website: https://drleaf.com/
#114: Dr. Alessandro Prigione - Using Stem Cells to Grow Back Eye Sight and Other Applications
2022/07/26
Soon women will be able to reproduce on their own.
This statement may scare some of you or may be comforting to know, but it’s all thanks to the power of stem cells. I have with me an esteemed guest Dr. Alessandro Prigion on the show this week.
Dr. Alessandro Prigion is a professor of Pediatric Metabolic Medicine at the Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University in Dusseldorf, Germany and Editor-in-Chief of the journal Stem Cell Research (Elsevier). He’s the person you talk to when you need to learn anything about stem cells.
In this episode we discuss:
👉 What are stem cells
👉 The use cases of stem cells
👉 The ethical issues it poses
👉 The power of cell reprogramming
👉 Limitations of stem cells
👉 Understanding and strengthening your mitochondria
👉 And so much more…
If you're interested in learning more about stem cells this is the place to start.
Keynotes:
1:17 Dr. Prigion’s journey into researching stem cell
2:52 What are stem cells?
10:09 What can we accomplish using stem cells today and in the future
12:48 Rejuvenating the eye using stem cells
14:20 Homosexual couples can get pregnant
15:49 Can we build our muscles using stem cells
17:35 The uses of stem cells
21:42 The ethics involved when working with stem cells
25:05 Is creating organs with stem cells the same as 3d printing it
26:54 Genome editing with CRISPR CAS the 3 pillars of health
29:07 Limitations for longevity using stem cells
30:53 Research is hard work
32:30 How to know the real breakthroughs from the scams
34:36 Understanding mitochondria
37:36 Strengthening your mitochondria
39:30 What Dr. Prigion to stay on the top of his game
41:34 Dr. Prigion’s advice for living a happy, healthy, and meaningful life
43:36 Where you can find Dr. Prigion
Connect with Dr. Alessandro Prigion
Twitter: https://twitter.com/aleprigio
Resources
Dr. Alessandro Prigion’s Lab Website: https://www.neurosciences-duesseldorf.de/principal-investigators-and-junior-researchers/alessandro-prigione
Podcast sponsorship advertising
Start advertising on Mads Friis Podcast relevant audience podcasts
You may also like to advertise on these Podcasts

4.716492000
Morning Mindset Christian Daily Devotional Bible study and prayer
Carey Green

4.810941764
Warchant Podcasts featuring Seminole Headlines
Warchant.com

4.82762857
Dopey: On the Dark Comedy of Drug Addiction
Dave & Chris

4.890611566
Fearless with Jason Whitlock
Blaze Podcast Network

4.959792000
Legal AF by MeidasTouch
MeidasTouch Network

4.725721047
The Dana Show with Dana Loesch – Politics & Culture Commentary
Dana Loesch – Conservative Political Commentary

4.723151959
Timeless Wisdom with Dennis Prager
Salem Podcast Network

4.816571994
Juicebox Podcast: Type 1 Diabetes
Scott Benner

4.8167502000
The GaryVee Audio Experience
Gary Vaynerchuk

4.6221672000
Mark Levin Podcast
Cumulus Podcast Network