1509452847
The Made to Thrive Show

Advertise on podcast: The Made to Thrive Show

Rating
★★★★★
5
from
27 reviews
This podcast has
326 episodes
Explicit
Yes
Date created
2020/04/22
Latest episode
2026/09/24
Average duration
61 min.
Release period
8 days

Description

Optimising your mind, body and soul. Hosted by Steve Stavs, Africa's Pro Biohacker, Health Futurist, and founder of www.madetothrive.co.za.

Podcast episodes

Check latest episodes from The Made to Thrive Show podcast


Are You Running Out of Brain Room? How to Win the Brain Game in an Overstimulated World — with Dr Tommy Wood, MD, PhD
2026/09/24
Yes, we live in a chronically overstimulated world. Yes, our attention is increasingly fragmented. And yes, we’re constantly monitoring email, WhatsApp, Slack, social media and more. But what if the solutions to winning the brain game aren’t nearly as complicated as the problem makes them seem? That’s what I love about returning guest Dr Tommy Wood: he keeps it gentle, truthful, practical and simple. The challenges facing our brains are real, but this episode is genuinely hopeful because protecting your brain, improving your cognitive performance and building resilience doesn’t require turning your life upside down. It truly is possible to win the brain game—with realistic, consistent effort. Dr Tommy Wood is Assistant Professor of Paediatrics and Neuroscience at the University of Washington, where he conducts research focusing on ways to increase resilience and treat injury in the developing brain. He holds a degree in biochemistry from Cambridge, a medical degree from Oxford, and achieved his PhD in physiology and neuroscience in Oslo. When it comes to brain health and longevity, Tommy’s knowledge is second to none. He has an impressive range of experience across a variety of different disciplines, which gives him both a broad perspective and an incredibly specialised area of expertise. Join us as we explore: The shifting landscape of mental health, burnout, dementia burden and cognitive decline.Are you running out of brain room?How to win the brain game?How to structure your workday for brain benefits, re-training for attention and the power of the pomodoro technique.The most impactful down-regulating tactics.The most objective and reputable ways to measure your brain health and performance.The most impactful types of exercise for brain health and cognitive longevity.The most critical micronutrients to prevent trophic-driven dementia.Mentions: Assessment - BetterBrain, https://www.betterbrain.com Assessment - Creyos, https://creyos.com Assessment - Food For The Brain, https://foodforthebrain.org/the-cognitive-function-test/  Book - Attention Span, https://gloriamark.com/attention-span/ Study - Hallbeck, M. S., Lowndes, B. R., Bingener, J., Abdelrahman, A. M., Yu, D., Bartley, A., & Park, A. E. (2017). The impact of intraoperative microbreaks with exercises on surgeons: A multi-center cohort study.Applied Ergonomics, 60, 334-341. Support the show Follow Steve's socials: Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube | Facebook | Twitter | TikTok Support the show on Patreon: As much as we love doing it, there are costs involved and any contribution will allow us to keep going and keep finding the best guests in the world to share their health expertise with you. I’d be grateful and feel so blessed by your support: https://www.patreon.com/MadeToThriveShow Send me a WhatsApp to +27 64 871 0308. Disclaimer: Please see the link for our disclaimer policy for all of our content: https://madetothrive.co.za/terms-and-conditions-and-privacy-policy/
Dr Shallenberger: Healing the Incurable with Miracle Ozone Therapy (Rebroadcast)
2026/09/16
Dr Frank Shallenberger is a board-certified physician in anti-ageing medicine and US President of the American Association of Ozone Therapy. He’s been a pioneer in the field of ozone for over 40 years, and more than that he has been a pioneer in the field of medicine. Dr Frank also developed a new area of Ozone Therapy, referred to as Prolozone®. Prolozone® is an injection technique that has been shown to regenerate damaged joints, herniated discs, and degenerated joints, tendons, and soft tissues. Known as the “Teacher’s Teacher”, he’s a mentor to Dr Stave Stavs, who describes him as a man of truth, honesty and integrity, who has stood up for what is right, what is effective and what has been used for generations.   Join us as we explore: The counterintuitive nature of oxidative stressWhat is Ozone Therapy?The effectiveness of ozone on your immune systemThe ins and outs of Prolozone (injectables) and why it's so important The benefits of hydrogen peroxide in treating health issuesTonsils and the immune systemMajor and Minor AutohemotherapyThe future of Ozone TherapyJoin our community:Facebook MadeToThriveZA; SteveStavsZAInstagram SteveStavsZA Mentions: Book: Frank Shallenberger - The Ozone Miracle: How you can harness the power of oxygen to keep you and your family healthy https://www.amazon.com/Ozone-Miracle-harness-oxygen-healthy-ebook/dp/B06XDCGPCF Prolozone Therapy: Frank Shallenberger, Journal of Prolotherapy: Prolozone – Regenerating Joints and Eliminating Pain. https://journalofprolotherapy.com/prolozone-regenerating-joints-and-eliminating-pain/ Book: Thomas E Levy - Rapid Virus Recovery https://www.amazon.com/Rapid-Virus-Recovery-Thomas-Levy-ebook/dp/B095C8PWVF/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3QTBX2U0KUQCQ&keywords=rapid+virus+recovery+book+by+thomas+levy YouTube video: Disease is Optional Part 1- Frank Shallenberger 5 part video series Ozone Courses / Training: http://www.shallenbergerozonecourse.com Contact Dr Frank Shallenberger https://ozoneclinic.co.za/ https://www.antiagingmedicine.com http://www.shallenbergerozonecourse.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OzoneWellnessTherapy/ Support the show Follow Steve's socials: Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube | Facebook | Twitter | TikTok Support the show on Patreon: As much as we love doing it, there are costs involved and any contribution will allow us to keep going and keep finding the best guests in the world to share their health expertise with you. I’d be grateful and feel so blessed by your support: https://www.patreon.com/MadeToThriveShow Send me a WhatsApp to +27 64 871 0308. Disclaimer: Please see the link for our disclaimer policy for all of our content: https://madetothrive.co.za/terms-and-conditions-and-privacy-policy/
A Sleep Masterclass: Chronotypes, Supplements, Hacks, Trackers and Sleep Nutrition with The Sleep Doctor: Dr Michael Breus (Rebroadcast)
2026/09/09
Wow! This podcast was nonstop sleep information gold from the sleep doctor of all sleep doctors. It is incredible how much you can transform your sleep by just listening to this hour with a true sleep guru.  Dr. Michael J.Breus, The Sleep Doctor, is a clinical psychologist with more than two decades of experience in his field. He is a diplomate of the American Board of Sleep Medicine and a fellow of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.  Additionally, Dr. Breus is one of the only psychologists to pass the Sleep Medicine Specialty board without attending medical school. In 2021, Reader’s Digest named him the best sleep specialist in the state of California.  Dr. Breus is also a best-selling author. His publications include four books – Good Night: The Sleep Doctor’s 4-Week Program to Better Sleep and Better Health (2006), The Sleep Doctor’s Diet Plan: Lose Weight Through Better Sleep (2011), The Power of When: Discover Your Chronotype–and the Best Time to Eat Lunch, Ask for a Raise, Have Sex, Write a Novel, Take Your Meds, and More (2016) and Energize!: Go From Dragging Ass to Kicking It in 30 Days (2021). Dr. Breus lectures all over the world and serves as an expert resource for most major publications, doing more than 250 interviews per year. Join us as we explore: An amazing, in-depth journey through the sleep cycles, sleep stages, sleep drive, sleep trackers and how that relates to your health and wellbeing. Whether it is more important to go to bed at the same time every day or wake up at the same time every day? Why sleeping in on the weekends is far more detrimental to your health than you can imagine! If you’re a bear, a wolf, a dolphin, an early bird or a lion? A caffeine masterclass! When to have it, when not to and why a lot of people are not getting any bang for their coffee buck. Why HRV is correlated to your sleeping patterns and quality. The Sleep Doctor’s easy to do 5 step plan to excellent sleep! Absolutely everything about sleep supplements – melatonin, cannabis, valerian, sleeping aids and more. Mentions: Quiz – The Chrono Quiz, https://thesleepdoctor.com/sleep-quizzes/chronotype-quiz/ Study - Negative effects of restricted sleep on facial appearance and social appeal, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5451790/ Podcast – Four Sigmatic - Functional & Medicinal Mushrooms, Nootropics, and Smart Drugs, https://youtu.be/opqG7P_PB-w Product – ChiliPad, https://madetothrive.co.za/special-deals/chili/ Product – EBB, https://sleepgadgets.io/ebb-sleep-cooling-headband/ Product – Apollo Neuro, https://madetothrive.co.za/special-deals/apollo-neuro-stress-relief-device/   Support the show Follow Steve's socials: Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube | Facebook | Twitter | TikTok Support the show on Patreon: As much as we love doing it, there are costs involved and any contribution will allow us to keep going and keep finding the best guests in the world to share their health expertise with you. I’d be grateful and feel so blessed by your support: https://www.patreon.com/MadeToThriveShow Send me a WhatsApp to +27 64 871 0308. Disclaimer: Please see the link for our disclaimer policy for all of our content: https://madetothrive.co.za/terms-and-conditions-and-privacy-policy/ Support the show Follow Steve's socials: Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube | Facebook | Twitter | TikTok Support the show on Patreon: As much as we love doing it, there are costs involved and any contribution will allow us to keep going and keep finding the best guests in the world to share their health expertise with you. I’d be grateful and feel so blessed by your support: https://www.patreon.com/MadeToThriveShow Send me a WhatsApp to +27 64 871 0308. Disclaimer: Please see the link for our disclaimer policy for all of our content: https://madetothrive.co.za/terms-and-conditions-and-privacy-policy/
Metabolic Freedom: 30 Day Guide to Restore Your Metabolism, Heal Hormones and Burn Fat. Ben Azadi (REBROADCAST)
2026/08/31
What does it mean to be free?  That is one of life’s biggest questions, and has occupied the minds of philosophers for time immemorial. But what does it mean to be metabolically free? Hangry? Post-meal slumps? Type II diabetic? These are all examples of the opposite - metabolic imprisonment.  That's why we decided to revisit this episode with Ben Azadi to rediscover what it means to be free of this "prison", some of you find yourselves in. Ben is an incredible advocate for metabolic health, someone who walks the talk with his own pain to purpose story and someone who has made a personal impact on a member of my family. In 2008, Ben Azadi was an obese man who went through a personal health transformation of releasing 80 pounds of extra weight, and getting metabolically healthy. Ever since, Ben Azadi, FDN-P, has been on a mission to help 1 billion people live a healthier lifestyle. Ben has over 15 years of experience in the health industry, and he’s the author of four best-selling books, including his latest Keto Flex. Ben has been the go-to source for intermittent fasting and the ketogenic diet since 2013. He is known as ‘The Health Detective’ because he investigates dysfunction, and he educates, not medicates, to bring the body back to normal function. Ben is the founder of Keto Kamp; a global brand bringing awareness to ancient healing strategies such as the keto diet and fasting.  Get his new book “Metabolic Freedom: A 30-Day Guide to Restore Your Metabolism, Heal Hormones & Burn Fat” NOW, https://tinyurl.com/metabolic-freedom Join us as we explore: Everything about metabolism - what it is, how it works, can it be “slow” or “fast”, why it becomes dysfunctional and the most important signals of sub-optimal metabolism.An incredible study that exposes the “I’m getting old equals weight gain” myth, and why you can actually have the same metabolism at 90 as you had in your 20s.Fasting insulin, why it’s critically important in metabolism and the difference between being metabolically free and being an imprisoned “sugar burner”. The scientifically-proven power of “vitamin G”.Ben’s top biohacks to bolster metabolism. Contact: Website: www.benazadi.com  Instagram: @thebenazadi  Mention: Study - Pontzer H, et al,. Daily energy expenditure through the human life course. Science. 2021 Aug 13;373(6556):808-812. doi: 10.1126/science.abe5017. PMID: 34385400; PMCID: PMC8370708.  Study - Kobayashi LC, Hagan KA, Trudel-Fitzgerald C, et al. Gratitude and Mortality Among Older US Female Nurses. JAMA Psychiatry. Published online July 3, 2024. doi:10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2024.1610 Study - Picard M, Prather AA, Puterman E, Cuillerier A, Coccia M, Aschbacher K, Burelle Y, Epel ES. A Mitochondrial Health Index Sensitive to Mood and Caregiving Stress. Biol Psychiatry. 2018 Jul 1;84(1):9-17. doi: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2018.01.012. Epub 2018 Feb 3. PMID: 29525040; PMCID: PMC6014908. Support the show Follow Steve's socials: Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube | Facebook | Twitter | TikTok Support the show on Patreon: As much as we love doing it, there are costs involved and any contribution will allow us to keep going and keep finding the best guests in the world to share their health expertise with you. I’d be grateful and feel so blessed by your support: https://www.patreon.com/MadeToThriveShow Send me a WhatsApp to +27 64 871 0308. Disclaimer: Please see the link for our disclaimer policy for all of our content: https://madetothrive.co.za/terms-and-conditions-and-privacy-policy/
The Creatine Masterclass: Why & How Men and Women Optimize Performance with this Miracle Compound. Dr Darren Candow PhD CSEP-CEP FISSN (Rebroadcast)
2026/08/26
Despite being the most studied supplement of all time, creatine is making a big resurgence.  That's why we decided to rebroadcast this highly informative episode, that is more relevant now, than when it was originally posted.  It’s been the hot topic in the health podcast space, as new scientific evidence is showing creatine is about more than looking big, but has big and important effects on brain health and overall longevity. But, like all things, creatine needs to be handled with care. It needs to be the right type, at the right dose, at the right times, with the right movement and for the right person. That’s why it was fundamentally important for me to get a true creatine expert on the show, Dr Darren Candow. Dr. Darren Candow is a professor specializing in exercise physiology, nutrition, and aging. He supervises the Aging Muscle and Bone Health Laboratory, where the primary research focus is to develop effective lifestyle interventions involving nutrition—primarily creatine monohydrate—and physical activity, particularly resistance training. These interventions aim to improve muscle, bone, and brain health and function, with both practical and clinical relevance. To date, Dr. Candow has published over 120 peer-reviewed journal articles, supervised more than 20 MSc/PhD students, and secured research funding from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Canada Foundation for Innovation, the Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation, the National Institutes of Health, and the Nutricia Research Foundation. Join us as we explore: Everything about creatine! What it is, is it right for you, the safest form, dosage, its most important (and surprising) effects, why it’s the most studied supplement ever and some risks and side effects.Creatine’s incredible effects on a sleep deprived and exhausted brain!Creatine’s relationship to caffeine, hyperbaric chambers/hypoxia and TRT.Dr Candow’s recommended morning exercise and creatine protocol.Does creatine cause you to gain weight, retain water, and is the loading phase a real thing?Veganism and creatine.Mention: Study - Creatine and anti-depressants, Roitman, S., Green, T., Osher, Y., Karni, N., Levine, J., & Levine, S. (2012). Creatine monohydrate in resistant depression: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. American Journal of Psychiatry, 169(7), 779-784. https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.ajp.2012.11091452 Study - Creatine and pregnancy, Ellery, S. J., LaRosa, D. A., Kett, M. M., Della Gatta, P. A., Snow, R. J., Walker, D. W., & Dickinson, H. (2016). Dietary creatine supplementation during pregnancy: A study on the effects of creatine supplementation on creatine homeostasis and renal excretory function in spiny mice. Amino Acids, 48(8), 1819–1830. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00726-015-2150-7 Study - Creatine and sleep deprivation, Gordji-Nejad, A., Matusch, A., Kleedörfer, S., Patel, H. J., Drzezga, A., Elmenhorst, D., Binkofski, F., & Bauer, A. (2024). Single dose creatine improves cognitive performance and induces changes in cerebral high energy phosphates during sleep deprivation. Scientific Reports, 14, 4937. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-54249-9 Person - Stuart Phillips, https://experts.mcmaster.ca/display/phillis Support the show Follow Steve's socials: Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube | Facebook | Twitter | TikTok Support the show on Patreon: As much as we love doing it, there are costs involved and any contribution will allow us to keep going and keep finding the best guests in the world to share their health expertise with you. I’d be grateful and feel so blessed by your support: https://www.patreon.com/MadeToThriveShow Send me a WhatsApp to +27 64 871 0308. Disclaimer: Please see the link for our disclaimer policy for all of our content: https://madetothrive.co.za/terms-and-conditions-and-privacy-policy/
Toxic Fat: The Most Dangerous Sign for Heart Disease. Unpacking The Fat Crisis Around Your Heart and Organs. Dr Sean O’Mara MD JD (Rebroadcast)
2026/08/19
This week we run a rebroadcast, back by popular demand, of our discussion with Dr Sean O’Mara, and what an incredible episode it was with an amazing health hero  who gives a no nonsense, no prisoners-taken masterclass on visceral fat and adipose tissue, and how it’s killing you and turning on the “ugly button”. What sets this episode apart is not only Dr O’Mara’s knowledge, but his use of incredible visual images to tell the story of visceral fat and how it is creating disease and death. This is one of the most important episodes I’ve ever done.  Dr. Sean O'Mara works with business executives, professional performers and athletes motivated to optimize through innovative techniques of performance enhancement. He was a founder of an innovative medical startup in Minneapolis, MN called Lantu, focusing on health and performance optimization. In 2016, Lantu was awarded a National Science Foundation research grant to reverse chronic disease. Dr. O'Mara and his team used cutting-edge data analytics to glean insights to both identify and leverage innovative biometrics/biomarkers of health, the human genome as well as the microbiome. He has over a decade of experience evaluating and, more importantly, reversing chronic disease. He innovatively provides his clients with practical solutions to optimize their overall appearance, performance, health, and quality of life. No risky pharmaceuticals, hormones, or surgical interventions are needed for better optimizing results. Join us as we explore: Visceral fat, adipose tissue, is any amount healthy, where it comes from , how to get rid of it and how it’s the #1 risk most directly causal to cardiovascular disease.Why your face is a picture of your health, especially as you age and how visceral fat and adipose tissues affects everything from hormones to cancer and even your beauty.The number one (by far) most important thing everyone needs to do to get rid of visceral fat, including visual proof of how it can radically change your body composition in less than 6 months!Why the “MRI ends the lie” and is the best tool available to literally see where your visceral fat is hiding and creating 24/7 inflammatory disease.Terrifying photos of young children’s visceral fat, and the massive changes to their health and face when the fat is vanquished.Contact: Website: https://drseanomara.com Instagram: @drseanomara Mention: Programs - The Alpha Plan, https://drseanomara.com/plans Support the show Follow Steve's socials: Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube | Facebook | Twitter | TikTok Support the show on Patreon: As much as we love doing it, there are costs involved and any contribution will allow us to keep going and keep finding the best guests in the world to share their health expertise with you. I’d be grateful and feel so blessed by your support: https://www.patreon.com/MadeToThriveShow Send me a WhatsApp to +27 64 871 0308. Disclaimer: Please see the link for our disclaimer policy for all of our content: https://madetothrive.co.za/terms-and-conditions-and-privacy-policy/
Stillness Under Fire: How Daily Meditation Clears Allostatic Overload, Heals Corporate Burnout & Restores Presence Amid Panic, Anxiety & Overstimulation — with Tom Cronin, Founder of The Stillness Project
2026/08/12
Panic. Stress. Overwhelm. Anxiety. Worry. It’s me, it’s you, it’s everyone. What are we going to do? Meditate. Be present. Yes, this ancient practice and philosophy is more relevant and necessary than ever before. Why? Because we are overstimulated and overloaded. Allostatic overloaded. But how to meditate in this world and brain of overstimulation? Tom has some tips and tricks to succeed with meditation in an overstimulated world. Tom Cronin is the founder of The Stillness Project, author of a global movement to inspire 1 billion people to meditate daily, and Producer and Writer of the film and book The Portal. Tom discovered meditation in the early stages of his successful 26 yr career in finance as a tool for stress management. Tom’s experiences through meditation were not only immediate but very profound. He explored deeper into the realms of his meditation practice and Eastern philosophy, and after completing his teacher training in Bali, India and Australia, he qualified as a meditation teacher. Tom has been teaching meditation for top level companies in Australia, from Nova Fm, CBA, Rivkin Finance, Criteo and Fairfax Media and also authored 6 books. Contact: Website - https://tomcronin.com Join us as we explore: The corporate burnout crisis, Tom’s nervous breakdown and how he transformed from it.Allostatic load, how to clear it and the highest 20 min ROI practice is meditation.How to find peace and presence inside of us despite the chaos and craziness happening around us by balancing the polarity of pleasure and pain In a world chasing pleasure and avoiding pain at all costs.Modeling peace for our kids by following one simple principle, and why we need to embrace dynamic, more relevant schooling systems like the Green School.Why peak performance is happening during the time you are not performing.Why 85% of lawyers are anxious and depressed.Mentions: School - Green School Bali, https://bali.greenschool.org Person - Steven Kotler, https://www.stevenkotler.com  Support the show Follow Steve's socials: Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube | Facebook | Twitter | TikTok Support the show on Patreon: As much as we love doing it, there are costs involved and any contribution will allow us to keep going and keep finding the best guests in the world to share their health expertise with you. I’d be grateful and feel so blessed by your support: https://www.patreon.com/MadeToThriveShow Send me a WhatsApp to +27 64 871 0308. Disclaimer: Please see the link for our disclaimer policy for all of our content: https://madetothrive.co.za/terms-and-conditions-and-privacy-policy/
The Modern Mental Health Crisis Is an Environment Problem: Fix Your Nervous System, Boost HRV & Beat Overstimulation | Dr. David Rabin, MD, PhD
2026/08/05
What if the mental health crisis isn’t simply a crisis of the mind—but a crisis of the environment we’ve created for the brain? In this fascinating conversation with Dr. Dave Rabin, one of my best podcasts ever, we explore why our nervous systems are being pushed beyond what they evolved to handle, how chronic overstimulation is fueling everything from burnout to dementia, why HRV is one of the most important biomarkers of longevity and the remarkable science and results of the ApolloNeuro. Dr. David M. L. Rabin, MD, PhD, is a translational neuroscientist, psychiatrist, entrepreneur & inventor on a mission to cure mental illness. He has been studying the impact of chronic stress in humans for over 20 years, focusing on trauma, addiction, and human performance. Dr. Rabin is a Senior Research Scientist at the Institute for Human and Machine Cognition, the Chief Medical Officer and co-founder at Apollo Neuroscience, the Executive Director of The Board of Medicine nonprofit medical board, and the Medical Director of The Apollo Clinic.  Dr. Rabin is also the author of A Simple Guide to Being Alive (2026). At the Apollo Clinic, Dr. Rabin and his team collaborate with clients and patients, empowering them to take control of their mental and physical health by tapping into the natural ability for the body to adapt and heal itself.  Contact Website - https://www.drdave.io Website - https://apolloneuro.com Join us as we explore: Why the mental health crisis is at the core a cognitive and neurological habitat mismatch emergency - things are too much, too fast and too loud and we are overstimulated, overwhelmed and overreactive.How an overstimulated world has crashed the glympathic system and led to the fact dementia is now the number one killer in multiple countries.The three major categories of chronic, acute nervous system overstimulation.Measuring overstimulation subjectively and critically objectively with data and using technology to curate the habitat required for a healthy nervous system.Why HRV is the true longevity signal, and how ApolloNeuro can elevate your HRV sustainably.How Dr Rabin used ApolloNeuro to move his HRV from the 20s to averaging over 100 ms and hitting heights of 220 ms.Dr Rabin’s 17 clinical trials prove scientifically the ApolloNeuro works to improve REM, deep sleep, decrease burnout and elevate HRV.Dr Rabin’s new book “A Simple Guide to Being Alive”, and his three most important guidelines.Mentions Science - ApolloNuero Backed by Science, https://apolloneuro.com/pages/apollo-neuro-research Support the show Follow Steve's socials: Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube | Facebook | Twitter | TikTok Support the show on Patreon: As much as we love doing it, there are costs involved and any contribution will allow us to keep going and keep finding the best guests in the world to share their health expertise with you. I’d be grateful and feel so blessed by your support: https://www.patreon.com/MadeToThriveShow Send me a WhatsApp to +27 64 871 0308. Disclaimer: Please see the link for our disclaimer policy for all of our content: https://madetothrive.co.za/terms-and-conditions-and-privacy-policy/
Stress Is Your Greatest Performance Tool: Master HRV, Vagus Tone & Beat Burnout | Matt Bennett
2026/07/29
We’ve been taught that stress is the enemy! And I have been trying for years to break that dogma. Because stress is actually one of your greatest performance tools. And there is one data point that encapsulates stress - HRV.  In this episode, we explore why HRV may be one of the most powerful biomarkers for improving not only personal health and resilience, stopping the burnout epidemic and improving employee wellbeing, engagement, and performance in the modern workplace. Matt Bennett is a keynote speaker, author, and trainer who brings trauma-informed care, neurobiology, behavior change, and resilience to life for professional audiences. Through compelling stories, practical frameworks, and research-based insight, he helps people see their work — and the people they serve — through a more hopeful, effective, and transformational lens. His presentations are energetic, thought-provoking, and actionable, designed to inspire audiences while giving them tools they can use immediately. Contact: Website - https://www.optimalhrv.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-bennett-584abb3  Join us as we explore: What is stress, and why we need it to succeed.HRV, defining it, why it goes up and down, measuring burnout with HRV and the 4 stages of burnout.The vagus nerve, vagal tone, a “good” HRV, how to improve it and HRV’s connection to emotions and cognition.How HRV is the best data point to improve employee wellbeing while improving employee productivity and performance.The demonization of stress, differentiating between distress and eustress and why a majority of stress is happening automatically and subconsciously.The best and worst HRV wearablesSupport the show Follow Steve's socials: Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube | Facebook | Twitter | TikTok Support the show on Patreon: As much as we love doing it, there are costs involved and any contribution will allow us to keep going and keep finding the best guests in the world to share their health expertise with you. I’d be grateful and feel so blessed by your support: https://www.patreon.com/MadeToThriveShow Send me a WhatsApp to +27 64 871 0308. Disclaimer: Please see the link for our disclaimer policy for all of our content: https://madetothrive.co.za/terms-and-conditions-and-privacy-policy/
Nitric Oxide: The Master Molecule That Controls Blood Pressure, Clears Soft Arterial Plaque, Protects Your Brain & Lowers Diabetes + Alzheimer’s Risk | Nathan Bryan, PhD
2026/07/22
What if one tiny molecule played the central role in your blood pressure, heart health, brain function, exercise performance, and even your risk of diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease? Dr Nathan Bryan believes that molecule is nitric oxide. And he walks the walk, having used his N101 products for decades testing shows his endothelial health to be of someone half his biological age! This is an incredible, illuminating podcast that deserves worldwide attention. Dr. Nathan Bryan has been involved in nitric oxide research for the past 25 years and has made many seminal discoveries in the field. His many seminal discoveries have resulted dozens of issued US and International patents and the product technology resulting from his discoveries and inventions has improved patient care worldwide. His companies and product technology are responsible for more than one billion dollars in product sales worldwide. Bryan is an international leader in molecular medicine and nitric oxide biochemistry. Contact:  Website - https://n1o1.com Join us as we explore: The secret power of nitric oxide - the root causes of deficiency, the #1 symptom of insufficiency and why it’s molecularly a hormone.Nitric oxide’s causation to diabetes, cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer’s disease.Eliminating deadly soft arterial plague with nitric oxide lozenges.Why most nitric oxide promoting supplements are false marketing.How your toothpaste and mouth wash are destroying your nitric oxide.How exercise creates nitric oxide.The key enzyme for nitric oxide and how to keep it in high supply.Mentions  Podcast - Dr Robert Elliot, https://podcasts.apple.com/za/podcast/the-made-to-thrive-show/id1509452847?i=1000718543359  Podcast - Dr John Osborne, https://podcasts.apple.com/za/podcast/the-made-to-thrive-show/id1509452847?i=1000766332388 Study - Elrod JW, Calvert JW, Gundewar S, Bryan NS, Lefer DJ. Nitric oxide promotes distant organ protection: evidence for an endocrine role of nitric oxide. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2008 Aug 12;105(32):11430-5. doi: 10.1073/pnas.0800700105. Epub 2008 Aug 6. PMID: 18685092; PMCID: PMC2516252 Support the show Follow Steve's socials: Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube | Facebook | Twitter | TikTok Support the show on Patreon: As much as we love doing it, there are costs involved and any contribution will allow us to keep going and keep finding the best guests in the world to share their health expertise with you. I’d be grateful and feel so blessed by your support: https://www.patreon.com/MadeToThriveShow Send me a WhatsApp to +27 64 871 0308. Disclaimer: Please see the link for our disclaimer policy for all of our content: https://madetothrive.co.za/terms-and-conditions-and-privacy-policy/
Beyond the Operating Room: How AI, Regenerative Medicine & Smarter Protocols Are Changing Surgery with Dr. Robert Whitfield, MD
2026/07/15
Surgery doesn’t end when you leave the operating theatre. And in fact, it begins long before you step into the hospital. Dr Rob Whitfield is a surgeon intent on doing things differently for his patients aka doing things better. From informed consent, to holistic and personalized post-op care and removing toxic implants, he is setting a new standard. With AI, regenerative medicine, and direct-to-consumer biotechnology the future isn’t just better surgery but smarter preparation and recovery. Dr. Robert Whitfield understands what you're going through. He has listened to thousands of patients describe the same experience: symptoms that don't add up, doctors who dismiss them, and a desperate search for someone who will take them seriously. As a board-certified plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Dr. Whitfield has published the largest PCR-tested explant capsule series in the world, presented at major medical conferences, and built a patient education library with over 26 million views. He created the SHARP Method specifically because standard surgical care wasn't enough for his patients. Contact Website - https://www.drrobertwhitfield.com Join us as we explore: The unappreciated risks of breast implants, breast implant illness and genuine informed consent.What Dr Whifield’s has learnt removing implants and testing them, and his unique SHARP method. Genetic sequencing, AI, genomic supplementation and where the standard of care is heading, including surgical robots.Mentions Science - Dr Whitfield’s research and publications, https://www.drrobertwhitfield.com/media/research Support the show Follow Steve's socials: Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube | Facebook | Twitter | TikTok Support the show on Patreon: As much as we love doing it, there are costs involved and any contribution will allow us to keep going and keep finding the best guests in the world to share their health expertise with you. I’d be grateful and feel so blessed by your support: https://www.patreon.com/MadeToThriveShow Send me a WhatsApp to +27 64 871 0308. Disclaimer: Please see the link for our disclaimer policy for all of our content: https://madetothrive.co.za/terms-and-conditions-and-privacy-policy/
No Pro Athlete Shows Up Under-Slept or Overstimulated — So Why Do Business Leaders? How to Become an Executive Athlete and Stop Burning Out with Nicole Elizabeth Ward
2026/07/09
No professional athlete in 2026 goes into a game under-slept, under-nourished and overstimulated. So why are business execs and entrepreneurs still doing that every single day? It’s because they don’t recognize they are actually executive athletes. And just like sport athletes, business athletes need healthy bodies and minds to the same degree if they want to avoid being another burnout statistic.   Nicole Elizabeth Ward combines twenty-five years of sales leadership experience with her passion for wellness and performance optimization. Her unique background enables her to address the specific health challenges facing sales professionals with practical, evidence-based solutions. Through her book, podcast, and coaching, she helps sales professionals transform into Sales Athletes who can sustain peak performance without sacrificing their health. Buy her book “Biohacking for the Sales Athlete” on AMAZON: https://tinyurl.com/biohacksalesathlete  Contact: Website - https://www.nicoleelizabethward.com/biohack Join us as we explore: Why it is critical business leaders and executives look beyond IQ and EQ and  understand they are executive athletes with a real responsibility to manage and optimize their physiology.The executive athletes gym bag - hacks to do functions, social events and traveling healthier. How feedback loops from data is the key to unlock the corporate burnout puzzle.The trapping of the all or nothing mentality, the ROI of health coaching and why execs need to decelerate to accelerate to competitive advantages.The power of keeping a food journal for 2 weeks, and the cost of choices.Why HRV tracking made Nicole go wow, and how she got hers unstuck.Mentions Resources - The Executive Athlete’s Gym Bag, https://www.nicoleelizabethward.com Support the show Follow Steve's socials: Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube | Facebook | Twitter | TikTok Support the show on Patreon: As much as we love doing it, there are costs involved and any contribution will allow us to keep going and keep finding the best guests in the world to share their health expertise with you. I’d be grateful and feel so blessed by your support: https://www.patreon.com/MadeToThriveShow Send me a WhatsApp to +27 64 871 0308. Disclaimer: Please see the link for our disclaimer policy for all of our content: https://madetothrive.co.za/terms-and-conditions-and-privacy-policy/
Light as Medicine: How Photobiomodulation & Photodynamic Therapy Could Transform Alzheimer’s, ADHD & Cancer – With Dr. Hans Michael Weber, MD & Robert Weber, M.Sc.
2026/06/26
We are entering an extraordinary era in medicine where light itself is emerging as a therapeutic tool. Technologies such as transcranial photobiomodulation and photodynamic therapy are showing encouraging promise across a wide spectrum of conditions—from neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s to ADHD and even certain forms of cancer. And at the heart of this is pioneer physician Dr Hans Weber and his Weber Medical clinic. Hans Michael Weber, MD, began his career as a general practitioner, running his own medical practice while becoming increasingly aware of the limitations of conventional medicine. This realization sparked his interest in low-level laser therapy, a field in which he quickly recognized enormous therapeutic potential and began integrating into his everyday clinical work. After years of research and development, he introduced the world’s first device for invasive laser application in 2005—the Weberneedle® Endolaser. Today, Dr. Weber is the founder of Weber Medical, whose medical laser systems are used in more than 2,000 clinics across over 40 countries worldwide. Robert Weber, M.Sc., has dedicated more than a decade to advancing innovative treatment strategies inspired by the scientific and clinical work of his father, Dr. Hans Michael Weber. His work has focused particularly on viral, bacterial, and parasitic infectious diseases, as well as neurodegenerative conditions, with a special interest in laser-based therapeutic approaches including low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and photodynamic therapy (PDT). Throughout his career, he has initiated and supported multiple research projects aimed at expanding the evidence base and applications of these technologies in the form of the EndoLight® and the Infrared Helmet.  Contact: Website - https://webermedical.com Join us as we explore: The crisis of malillumination, the power of intravenous laser therapy and the power of each color of the light spectrum.60% to 70% better regenerative outcomes using lasers in comparison to classic  injection methods.Transcranial photobiomodulation - what it is, the pathologies it is solving and the Weber’s cutting-edge laser helmet.From cancer to ADHD- could the root cause be junk light and the solution by photodynamic therapy.Mentions Science - Weber Medical, https://webermedical.com/en/home-use/science/ Support the show Follow Steve's socials: Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube | Facebook | Twitter | TikTok Support the show on Patreon: As much as we love doing it, there are costs involved and any contribution will allow us to keep going and keep finding the best guests in the world to share their health expertise with you. I’d be grateful and feel so blessed by your support: https://www.patreon.com/MadeToThriveShow Send me a WhatsApp to +27 64 871 0308. Disclaimer: Please see the link for our disclaimer policy for all of our content: https://madetothrive.co.za/terms-and-conditions-and-privacy-policy/
Genes Don’t Dictate Your Cancer Fate: Dr. Monisha Bhanote, MD, FCAP, ABOIM on the 90–95% Lifestyle Truth, ‘Gut Clock’ & Ancient Wisdom.
2026/06/18
What if 90–95% of cancers weren’t written in your genes—but in your environment, lifestyle, and daily choices? My guest today Dr B challenges some of the biggest assumptions in modern medicine, drawing on decades of experience examining cancer cells under the microscope. From the hidden drivers of chronic disease to the controversial role of hormone replacement therapy and the critical importance of gut health, this episode explores what happens when we stop asking what disease a person has and start asking why they developed it in the first place. With an unprecedented five board certifications, Dr. Monisha Bhanote brings a comprehensive, systems-based approach to health that few practitioners can match. As the founder of WELLKULÅ and CEO of Travela Wellness, Dr. Bhanote has created comprehensive platforms that make transformative health accessible to individuals and organizations worldwide. Dr B’s work bridges the gap between ancient wisdom traditions and modern molecular science, creating personalized, actionable protocols that deliver measurable results. Her clinical and research focus centers on the microbiome-brain-longevity axis—investigating how gut health, inflammation management, and cellular optimization. Contact: Website - https://www.drbhanote.com Join us as we explore: Breaking genetic dogma once and for all around disease pathology - from cancer to diabetes. Balancing the pros and cons of any approach whether conventional, Pharma or Ayurvedic.A long ranging conversation on hormonal replacement therapy. Tumor vs healthy cell biology.The crisis of gut health, the gut “clock” you didn’t know you had and why many answers lie with the millennia old wisdom of Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine.The stress travel puts on your microbiome due to stress, dehydration, hypoxia, humidity, radiation and poor food choices.Mentions Study - The Negative Influence of Air Travel on Health and Performance in the National Basketball Association: A Narrative Review, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6162549/ Support the show Follow Steve's socials: Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube | Facebook | Twitter | TikTok Support the show on Patreon: As much as we love doing it, there are costs involved and any contribution will allow us to keep going and keep finding the best guests in the world to share their health expertise with you. I’d be grateful and feel so blessed by your support: https://www.patreon.com/MadeToThriveShow Send me a WhatsApp to +27 64 871 0308. Disclaimer: Please see the link for our disclaimer policy for all of our content: https://madetothrive.co.za/terms-and-conditions-and-privacy-policy/
Your Home Is Silently Making You Sick — Mold, VOCs & Why No Supplement Can Fix It | Jean-Marc Masson, CMI®
2026/06/10
Most people obsess over food, supplements and exercise — while spending 90% of their lives breathing the air inside potentially toxic buildings. That’s why I brought on a true expert in the field in Jean-Marc Masson. We unpack the hidden dangers of Sick Building Syndrome, from mold and VOCs to poor ventilation and the chronic symptoms silently affecting energy, cognition, sleep and long-term health. Made To Thrive’s 7th Pillar Environment, our home and workplace, is always the one people underappreciate and it’s actually the biggest health variable you’ve never quantified. Jean-Marc Masson, Owner of Home Inspection Services South Africa, has been inspecting property for over a decade. He joined Home Inspection in 2011, was trained by Steve Kay – original founder of Home inspection. Jean-Marc went on to get certified as a Certified Master Inspector (CMI)®, Mould Inspector, Thermal Imaging Inspector and Commercial Building Inspector through InterNACHI. Every inspection conducted is governed by an international code of ethic and standards of practice. These are set out by the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI). Contact  Website:https://www.homeinspection.co.za Join us as we explore: Why a home inspection uncovers hidden toxicities and solves medical mysteries.Why the dangers of sick homes is that you cannot see the threats.Why dangers of mold, where it comes from, how to address and remediate and why you should be wary of doing your own home Petri dish test.The danger of carpets.Why the type of your roof is far more important than you realize.Why the basics like natural ventilation and sunlight exposure are critical to a healthy home.Support the show Follow Steve's socials: Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube | Facebook | Twitter | TikTok Support the show on Patreon: As much as we love doing it, there are costs involved and any contribution will allow us to keep going and keep finding the best guests in the world to share their health expertise with you. I’d be grateful and feel so blessed by your support: https://www.patreon.com/MadeToThriveShow Send me a WhatsApp to +27 64 871 0308. Disclaimer: Please see the link for our disclaimer policy for all of our content: https://madetothrive.co.za/terms-and-conditions-and-privacy-policy/

Podcast reviews

Read The Made to Thrive Show podcast reviews


5 out of 5
27 reviews
★★★★★
dr_kellymccann 2025/12/01
Thoughtful, Insightful, and Truly Engaging
It was a pleasure connecting with Steve on The Made to Thrive Show. He brought thoughtful insight, curiosity, and grace to the conversation, which all...
★★★★★
Elaine Glass 2024/04/30
Inspiring
I recently discovered this fantastic podcast dedicated to personal growth that exceeded my expectations. Steve tackles a wide range of topics relevant...
★★★★★
cara u 2022/11/17
Incredible, informative and easily digestible podcast!
Thank you Steve for delivering such informative information in a digestible fashion!
★★★★★
Leigh -ann 2022/11/10
Brain health
Amazing podcast by Steven Stavrou . Alternative help which I’m going to try for mental health . Thanks so much for all the health celebrities you inte...
★★★★★
dana-at-stanton 2022/10/19
Incredible show with amazing guests!
Made to Thrive is such an awesome show with amazing guests!! I love tapping into the wide variety of experts, especially in nutrition and diet. Love i...
★★★★★
TKC303 2022/07/27
Great show
Steve’s podcast is a great new way to hear stories from experts across the health and wellness industries.
★★★★★
SJNLP 2020/06/08
Fantastic reminders
Thank you Steve and Joni, I thoroughly enjoyed that podcast. It highlighted information I’ve always believed is true, but sometimes we stray from the ...
★★★★★
AlessandraMTP 2020/05/05
Practical insights!
Thank you Steve and Joni for breaking it down for us and motivating us to thrive. Going to be “bouncing forward” to my best self and waking up 7 minut...
★★★★★
Steve4235 2020/05/02
Great interviews!!Inspiring
So many of us are wanting to thrive more, live with more energy, more health, less fear and worry... This info and practical ideas has helped me so mu...
check all reviews on apple podcasts

Podcast sponsorship advertising

Start advertising on The Made to Thrive Show relevant audience podcasts


What do you want to promote?

You may also like to advertise on these Podcasts