Moonshots Podcast: Superstar mindsets and success habits

Hosted by Mike Parsons & Mark Pearson Freeland

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Jun 2026

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The Moonshots Podcast goes behind the scenes of the world's greatest superstars, thinkers and entrepreneurs to discover the secrets to their success. We deconstruct their success from mindset to daily habits so that we can apply it to our lives. Join us as we 'learn out loud' from Elon Musk, Brene Brown to emerging talents like David Goggins.

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June 15, 202651 min

Dave Asprey’s Biohacking Secrets for More Energy and Less Brain Fog

What if the food you eat could make you smarter, sharper, and more energized?In Episode 290 of the Moonshots Podcast, Mike and Mark dive into The Bulletproof Diet by biohacker and entrepreneur Dave Asprey. Together they challenge common diet myths, explore the science behind fasting, discuss the rise of Bulletproof Coffee, and examine how inflammation impacts performance, energy, and longevity.This episode is not about chasing the perfect diet. It's about discovering how nutrition can become a practical tool for better thinking, deeper focus, and sustainable wellbeing. Whether you're curious about intermittent fasting, optimizing your morning routine, or simply improving your relationship with food, this conversation offers practical insights you can start applying immediately.Buy The Bulletproof Diet:https://geni.us/FQVMdjDLearn more:https://www.moonshots.ioYouTube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGqs7VdIufLYNWnzZYuVaTAKey ThemesThe role of willpower in sustainable health habitsCommon myths and misconceptions about dietingBiohacking as a framework for personal optimizationThe impact of inflammation on health and performanceIntermittent fasting and metabolic flexibilityBulletproof Coffee and cognitive performancePersonalized nutrition versus one-size-fits-all dietsHealth as a vehicle for achievement and fulfillmentConcepts & BreakthroughsChallenging Diet MythsThe episode opens by examining some of the most persistent misconceptions about nutrition. Ideas such as "fat makes you fat," "skipping breakfast is unhealthy," or "healthy eating is always expensive" often survive because they are simple, not because they are accurate.Dave Asprey encourages listeners to question assumptions and focus on experimentation. The most effective dietary strategy is often the one that aligns with your unique biology, lifestyle, and goals.Biohacking Your EnergyAt the heart of Asprey's philosophy is biohacking—the practice of systematically improving physical and mental performance through observation and experimentation.Rather than accepting fatigue, brain fog, or poor energy as inevitable, biohacking asks a simple question:What small change could improve how I feel today?This mindset turns health into an ongoing process of discovery rather than a rigid set of rules.The Inflammation ConnectionOne of the most important insights discussed is the relationship between diet and inflammation.Many modern foods contribute to chronic low-grade inflammation, which can manifest as fatigue, digestive discomfort, reduced cognitive performance, and long-term health challenges.By focusing on higher-quality foods and reducing inflammatory triggers, listeners can create an environment where their bodies and minds perform more effectively.Fasting for FocusFasting is often viewed solely as a weight-loss tool, but the episode explores its broader benefits.Strategic fasting may help:Improve mental clarityIncrease focusEnhance metabolic flexibilityReduce reliance on constant food intakeMike and Mark discuss how many people discover that delaying breakfast can provide a surprising boost in productivity and concentration during the morning hours.Bulletproof CoffeeOne of Dave Asprey's most recognizable contributions is Bulletproof Coffee—a combination of coffee, healthy fats, and MCT oil designed to support sustained energy.The concept challenges traditional breakfast habits by providing fuel without triggering the energy crashes often associated with carbohydrate-heavy meals.Whether listeners adopt the practice or not, the larger lesson is to think intentionally about how morning nutrition affects cognitive performance.Health as a Means to an EndPerhaps the most powerful idea in the episode is that health is not the destination.Health is the vehicle.The purpose of eating well, sleeping better, exercising, and managing energy is not simply to achieve perfect health metrics.

June 1, 202644 min

Becoming a Supple Leopard - Dr. Kelly Starrett

In this episode of Moonshots, Mike and Mark dive into the groundbreaking ideas of Dr. Kelly Starrett, author of Becoming a Supple Leopard. Through insights shared with Dr. Andrew Huberman, they explore why movement quality matters, how poor posture quietly impacts health and performance, and what we can do to reclaim our natural mobility.From understanding common movement dysfunctions to embracing play and exploration as part of physical development, this episode offers practical tools for anyone looking to feel stronger, move better, and stay capable for years to come.At a time when many of us spend more hours sitting than moving, Starrett's message is especially relevant: the body adapts to what we repeatedly do. By making small but intentional changes, we can build resilience, improve performance, and enhance our overall quality of life.Whether you're an athlete, professional, parent, or simply someone who wants to move through life with greater ease, this episode provides actionable insights you can start applying today.Key ThemesMovement as a foundational human skillIdentifying and correcting common movement problemsThe relationship between posture and performanceBuilding long-term physical resilienceMobility as a daily practiceAdapting the body through consistent movement habitsThe importance of play and movement varietyConcepts & BreakthroughsMovement Quality Drives LongevityStarrett emphasizes that movement is not merely exercise; it is a fundamental expression of human capability. Poor movement patterns often accumulate gradually, leading to discomfort, inefficiency, and reduced performance. By improving movement quality, individuals can enhance both everyday function and long-term health.Posture Is a Performance ToolGood posture is often misunderstood as simply standing up straight. Starrett reframes posture as the body's ability to organize itself efficiently under load. Better posture supports breathing, stability, mobility, and strength, allowing us to perform tasks with less strain and greater effectiveness.The Body Adapts to RepetitionOne of the most important ideas in the episode is that our bodies constantly adapt to the positions and movements we practice most often. Long hours spent sitting or maintaining limited movement patterns can create restrictions over time. The solution is not occasional exercise alone but regular exposure to healthy movement throughout the day.Play Expands Human CapacityThe discussion closes with a reminder that movement should not always be structured or performance-focused. Play introduces new shapes, challenges, and experiences that help maintain mobility, coordination, and adaptability. Exploration keeps the body learning and developing across all stages of life.Habits, Tools & Mental ModelsDaily Movement AuditRegularly assess how much time you spend sitting, standing, walking, and moving. Awareness is the first step toward meaningful improvement.Position VarietyAvoid remaining in any single position for extended periods. Introduce different postures and movement patterns throughout the day to encourage adaptability.Posture CheckpointsCreate simple reminders to evaluate posture while working, walking, or exercising. Focus on alignment that supports breathing, stability, and efficient movement.Mobility as MaintenanceTreat mobility work as routine maintenance rather than rehabilitation. Consistent practice helps preserve range of motion and movement quality before problems arise.Play-Based MovementIncorporate activities that encourage exploration, balance, coordination, and enjoyment. New movement experiences challenge the body in ways traditional exercise often does not.Become a Member of the Moonshots Podcast:https://www.patreon.com/Moonshots

May 24, 202643 min

James Nestor’s bestselling book Breath. Breathe Better, Live Better.

Breathing is automatic — but optimal breathing is learned.In Episode 288 of Moonshots, Mike and Mark dive into the remarkable science and practical wisdom behind James Nestor’s bestselling book *Breath*. Together, they explore how conscious breathing can improve health, productivity, sleep, performance, and emotional balance in a world that constantly pushes us into stress and overstimulation.Featuring insights from James Nestor and practical reflections from Productivity Game, this episode reveals why better breathing may be one of the most overlooked keys to living well. Listeners will discover simple techniques, surprising research, and actionable habits that can create immediate and lasting benefits.Whether you want greater calm, sharper focus, or more energy throughout the day, this episode offers a compelling reminder that transformation often starts with the smallest actions — including every breath you take.**Primary Link:**[https://www.moonshots.io](https://www.moonshots.io)**Related Reading:**[https://geni.us/w5zo](https://geni.us/w5zo)**YouTube:**[https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGqs7VdIufLYNWnzZYuVaTA/](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGqs7VdIufLYNWnzZYuVaTA/)---# Key Themes* The hidden power of conscious breathing* How modern lifestyles negatively affect breathing patterns* Expanding breathing capacity for improved health and performance* The relationship between breathing, stress, and productivity* Nasal breathing versus mouth breathing* Breath awareness as a daily practice* Small physiological changes creating large life impacts---# Concepts & Breakthroughs## Breathing as a Performance ToolJames Nestor reframes breathing from a passive biological process into an active tool for enhancing physical and mental performance. The episode explores how better breathing habits can increase endurance, improve sleep quality, support emotional regulation, and sharpen concentration.## “Could I Breathe Less?”One of the standout ideas comes from Productivity Game’s reflection on breathing efficiency. Rather than taking bigger breaths, listeners are encouraged to consider whether calmer, slower, and more efficient breathing could improve energy and reduce anxiety. This shift in perspective highlights how overbreathing can actually stress the body.## Capacity Creates ResilienceThe discussion around improving breathing capacity reveals a broader insight about resilience. Expanding lung function and breath control trains the body to tolerate stress more effectively, helping listeners remain calmer under pressure and recover more quickly from challenges.## Ancient Wisdom Meets Modern ScienceThe episode bridges scientific research with long-standing breathing traditions practiced for centuries in meditation, yoga, and martial arts. Mike and Mark show how modern evidence increasingly validates practices once dismissed as purely spiritual or alternative.---# Habits, Tools & Mental Models## Breathe Through Your NoseNasal breathing filters, humidifies, and optimizes airflow more effectively than mouth breathing. Building awareness around this habit can improve sleep, endurance, and relaxation.## Slow Down Your BreathingReducing breathing rate can calm the nervous system and improve focus. Intentional slower breathing supports emotional regulation and decreases physiological stress.## Daily Breath Check-InAsk yourself throughout the day:**“Could I breathe less?”**This simple prompt encourages mindfulness and helps reduce unconscious overbreathing during stressful moments.## Build Breath CapacityPractices such as breath holds, controlled breathing exercises, and aerobic conditioning can help improve respiratory efficiency and overall resilience.## Use Breath as a Reset MechanismBreathing can become an immediate tool for resetting attention, calming anxiety, and returning to the present moment during demanding situations.

May 14, 202620 min

9 Daily Rituals That Improved My Focus, Energy & Mental Clarity | Biohacking

What if improving your focus, energy and mental clarity wasn’t about working harder… but building better daily rituals?In this solo Moonshots episode, Mike Parsons shares 9 personal biohacking experiments inspired by some of the world’s leading thinkers on health, longevity, sleep, stress and performance. From intermittent fasting and breathwork to sleep routines, walking, stretching and cold exposure, these are the habits Mike actually uses to feel calmer, sharper and more energized every day.This isn’t about extreme optimization or guru culture.It’s about practical daily practices that help entrepreneurs, creators and high performers operate at their best.In this episode:Intermittent fasting and mental clarityWalking after meals and glucose regulationBreathwork for stress and nervous system controlMorning sunlight and circadian rhythmSleep optimization and recoveryStretching, mobility and resiliencePlant-focused eating and energy managementCold showers and nervous system activationUsing the Oura Ring to track recovery and performanceFeaturing insights inspired by:David SinclairCasey MeansBessel van der KolkAndrew HubermanPatrick McKeownMatthew WalkerRoger FramptonMichael PollanWim HofMoonshots helps entrepreneurs become the best version of themselves by learning out loud from the world’s greatest thinkers, creators and performers.🎧 Subscribe for weekly episodes on entrepreneurship, mindset, creativity, leadership and high performance.🌐 Learn more: Moonshots.io#Biohacking #MentalClarity #HighPerformance #Entrepreneurship #SleepOptimization #Breathwork #Focus #Productivity #HealthHabits #MoonshotsPodcast

April 30, 202647 min

It’s Never Too Late to Live Longer | David Sinclair Lifespan

What if aging isn’t a fixed path—but a system you can influence?In this episode of Moonshots, Mike and Mark dive into the groundbreaking ideas of Dr. David Sinclair, author of Lifespan. Through a curated set of powerful clips, they unpack the science and philosophy behind longevity—and, more importantly, what it means for how we live today.Get your copy of Lifespan by David Sinclair here:👉 https://geni.us/zYl1cFYou’ll hear why small changes can still have a profound impact, the five foods that may shape your long-term health, and how fasting could play a role in extending not just lifespan, but healthspan.This episode is a call to action: to rethink habits, challenge assumptions, and take ownership of your future biology—starting now.Aging as a modifiable biological processIt’s never too late to improve health outcomesNutrition as a lever for longevityThe impact of specific foods on lifespanFasting and metabolic healthSmall habits, long-term consequencesOne of the most powerful ideas explored is that aging is not simply wear and tear—it’s a loss of biological information that may be slowed or restored. This reframing opens the door to action. Instead of accepting decline, listeners are encouraged to view their daily choices as inputs into a dynamic system.The discussion on nutrition cuts through complexity by focusing on high-impact foods. Rather than chasing trends, Sinclair emphasizes consistency and quality—choosing foods that support cellular health and reduce inflammation over time.Fasting emerges as another compelling concept. It’s not framed as a quick fix, but as a strategic stressor that can activate the body’s repair mechanisms. The idea is simple but powerful: giving your body periods of rest from constant digestion may unlock longevity benefits.The “It’s Not Too Late” Mindset: Shift from regret to action—biology responds to change at any stageNutritional Leverage: Focus on a handful of high-impact foods rather than overhauling everythingStrategic Fasting: Introduce structured eating windows to support metabolic healthLongevity Lens: Evaluate daily habits based on long-term health outcomes, not short-term comfortConsistency Over Perfection: Small, repeatable actions compound into meaningful changeYou can influence how you age starting today—your biology is more adaptable than you thinkEven late changes in lifestyle can produce measurable health benefitsPrioritizing a few key foods may have an outsized impact on longevityFasting, when done thoughtfully, can support your body’s natural repair systemsLong-term health is shaped by consistent daily habits, not dramatic overhaulsThinking in terms of “healthspan” shifts the goal from living longer to living betterBecome a Member of the Moonshots Podcast:https://www.patreon.com/MoonshotsGet your copy of Lifespan by David Sinclair here:👉 https://geni.us/zYl1cF

April 13, 202648 min

Good Energy: Casey Means on Metabolism, Glucose & Daily Vitality

Why do so many of us feel constantly tired, foggy, or out of sync—despite doing “all the right things”?In this episode of the Moonshots Podcast, Mike and Mark dive into Good Energy by Dr. Casey Means to uncover the hidden driver behind modern health struggles: metabolic dysfunction. Drawing on insights from leading voices like Andrew Huberman and practical frameworks from Productivity Game, they explore how small daily habits can either drain or fuel our energy at a cellular level.From understanding the key biomarkers that predict long-term health to experimenting with food and movement routines that actually work for your body, this episode is a wake-up call—and a roadmap.If you want consistent energy, sharper focus, and a body that supports your ambitions, this conversation will show you where to start.Key ThemesMetabolic health as the foundation of energy and longevityThe cellular origins of chronic disease and fatigueThe impact of ultra-processed foods and sedentary lifestylesBiomarkers as a personal “health scorecard”The link between glucose regulation and daily performanceMovement as a biological necessity, not an optional extraPersonal experimentation as the path to optimal healthConcepts & BreakthroughsDr. Casey Means reframes health as something deeply measurable and actionable. Rather than treating symptoms in isolation, she highlights how dysfunction begins at the cellular level—specifically within mitochondria, the engines of our energy. This perspective shifts the conversation from reactive healthcare to proactive self-optimization.One of the most powerful ideas is the concept of biomarkers as feedback loops. Metrics like blood glucose, cholesterol, and waist circumference aren’t abstract medical data—they’re signals. When tracked consistently, they provide early warnings and guide behavior change long before disease appears.The episode also challenges the default “three meals a day” paradigm. Through experimentation, Mike and Mark reveal how different eating patterns—like fasting, reducing processed carbs, or choosing slow-release foods like oats—can dramatically influence energy stability.Movement emerges as equally critical. It’s not just about workouts; it’s about integrating motion into daily life. Whether it’s walking after meals or using a standing desk, these micro-adjustments compound into meaningful metabolic improvements.As highlighted in the episode, even simple habits like walking can outperform medication in certain contexts —a striking reminder that our biology responds powerfully to natural inputs.Habits, Tools & Mental Models1. The Biomarker ScorecardTrack key health indicators annually (or more often) to detect early signals and guide lifestyle changes.2. Food as Energy ProgrammingThink of every meal as an input that either stabilizes or spikes your energy. Prioritize whole, slow-release foods.3. The Experimentation MindsetThere is no universal diet. Test, observe, and refine what works best for your body.4. Movement SnacksBreak up sedentary time with small bursts of activity—walking, stretching, or light exercise every 30–60 minutes.5. Post-Meal MovementWalking after eating helps regulate glucose and improves energy levels.6. “Hacked Carbs” StrategyCooling and reheating carbs like rice or potatoes can improve their metabolic impact by increasing resistant starch.Listener TakeawaysYou can dramatically improve your daily energy by focusing on metabolic health, not just symptomsTracking a few key biomarkers gives you control over your long-term health trajectorySmall changes in diet—especially reducing processed carbs—can eliminate energy crashesConsistent, light movement throughout the day is more powerful than occasional intense workoutsYour ideal routine is personal—experiment to find what fuels your best performanceBecome a Member of the Moonshots Podcast:https://www.patreon.com/Moonshots

April 6, 202646 min

Bessel Van Der Kolk - The Body Keeps the Score

As part of our biohacking series, Mike and Mark enthusiastically kick off the episode as they delve into the transformative work of Dr. Andrew Huberman from Stanford University. Andrew sets the stage by sharing a personal anecdote that profoundly influenced his journey.Clip 1: Find Your Motivation (3m44):Andrew recounts a pivotal moment that shifted his perspective, emphasizing the importance of finding one's motivation in life. This introspective discussion sets the tone for exploring the depths of human potential.Clip 2: Starting the Day (4m29):Listeners learn a valuable tip from Andrew: a simple morning activity can supercharge energy levels and enhance sleep quality. The hosts delve into practical strategies for optimizing daily routines for peak performance.Clip 3: How to Do It (2m32):Andrew illuminates the physiological sigh and its profound impact on reducing anxiety and stress levels. This insightful discussion unveils a simple yet powerful technique for cultivating resilience and emotional well-being.Clip 4: Building Your Best Self (4m19):In a dynamic exchange with a renowned physical therapist, Jeff Cavaliere, Andrew explores the fundamentals of crafting an effective weekly workout program. Listeners gain valuable insights into optimizing physical fitness and performance.Clip 5: Embracing Detachment (5m):Andrew engages in a thought-provoking dialogue with Jocko Willink, underscoring the significance of detachment and broadening one's perspective in life. This poignant conversation highlights the transformative power of stepping back and gaining a holistic view of one's journey.Conclusion:As the episode draws to a close, Mike and Mark reflect on Dr. Andrew Huberman's wealth of wisdom. From motivational insights to practical strategies for enhancing well-being, listeners are empowered to unlock their full potential and embark on a journey of growth and self-discovery.Thanks to our monthly supportersMikeEdwin DeitchJamie DorwardEmily Rose BanksMalcolm MageeNatalieRyan N.Marco-Ken Möller孤鸿月影FabianJasper VerkaartAndy PilaraolaAustin HammattZachary PhillipsMike Leigh CooperGayla SchiffLaura KERoar Nikolay Ytre-EideStefRoger von Holdtvenkata reddyIngram CaseyOlarahul groverRavi GovenderCraig LindsaySteve WoollardDeborah SpahrSamoelaJo HatchardKalman CsehBerg De BleeckerPaul AcquaahMrBonjourKonnor Ah kuoiMarjan ModaraDietmar BaurBob Nolley⁠★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

March 22, 20261 hr 7 min

Andrew Huberman, Ph.D: The Practical Science of Living Healthy

March 15, 202655 min

Roger Frampton: The Flexible Body

Join us for our Bio Hacking series, Mike and Mark stretch into Roger Frampton: The Flexible Body.0:00 Introduction to Roger Frampton: The Flexible Body04:30 An introduction to the Frampton Method15:56 Prioritise your spine21:36 Sitting too long is back for your back28:59 Have the mindset of an athlete47:31 Notice every movementForget everything you think you know about exercise. International model and fitness expert Roger Frampton has developed a revolutionary new approach to movement, designed to get your body working in the way it was designed to.Just 10 minutes of training per day can help you work towards unlocking your body’s full potential. ‘ The Flexible Body: Move better anywhere, anytime in 10 minutes a day guides you through a series of positions, stretches, rolls, and balances that retrain your body to move like it once could.Buy Flexible Body on Amazonhttps://geni.us/FlexibleBodyBecome a memberhttps://www.patreon.com/Moonshots

March 8, 202655 min

Breathing Techniques for Health & Performance | The Oxygen Advantage by Patrick McKeown

Join us for our Bio Hacking series, Mike and Mark explore the transformational power of conscious breathing through the lens of Patrick McKeown’s groundbreaking book, The Oxygen Advantage. Backed by science, McKeown’s methods focus on improving health, reducing stress, and optimizing performance through simple yet effective breathing techniques.Get the book on Amazon https://geni.us/PatrickOxygenAdvantageThe episode covers practical insights and easy-to-follow exercises to help listeners manage stress, improve sleep, and enhance focus. Breathing is something we do automatically, but Patrick reveals that most people are doing it wrong. By retraining your breath, you can unlock mental clarity, Resilience, and energy gains you never knew you had.🔑 Key Themes and Takeaways🎧 1. INTRO: Using Your Breath (2m37)In the opening segment, Patrick McKeown introduces the idea that most people aren’t breathing optimally. We tend to take shallow breaths, use our mouths instead of our noses, and overbreathe without realizing it.Patrick explains that conscious, mindful breathing is a powerful tool to improve energy levels, mental focus, and physical performance.💡 Key Insight:Most people breathe too much and too fast, which lowers their body's oxygen efficiency. The goal is to breathe less but more efficiently, using nasal breathing and controlled rhythms to optimize oxygen use.🎯 2. FOCUS: Breath-Holding to Build Resilience (3m20)One of Patrick’s most impactful techniques is breath-holding exercises. These exercises simulate stress by making the body uncomfortable in a controlled way.💡 Practical Tip: • Start with short breath-holds and gradually increase the duration. • Practice during moments of calm to improve your mental toughness and performance under pressure.🔧 3. PRACTICE TIPS: Avoid Over-Breathing & Hack Your SleepTip 1: Don’t Breathe Too Much (1m55)Brian Johnson from Optimize joins the conversation to discuss the dangers of chronic over-breathing. Most people take in more air than they need, which causes increased stress, anxiety, and lower energy levels.✅ Solution:Practice slow, light nasal breathing to reduce stress and improve oxygen absorption. This will help you feel calmer, more focused, and less reactive to everyday stressors.Tip 2: Hack Your Breathing While You Sleep (2m01)One of Patrick McKeown's most surprising tips is mouth-taping while you sleep. This simple hack ensures that you breathe through your nose all night long, which has major benefits for your sleep quality and energy levels.✅ Why It Works:Breathing through your nose helps maintain proper oxygen balance, reduces snoring, and improves restful sleep.💡 Practical Tip: • Use medical-grade tape to keep your lips closed at night gently. • Start practicing a few minutes before bed to get used to the sensation. • Gradually work your way up to using tape throughout the night.✅ Results: • Reduced snoring • Deeper sleep • More energy during the day💆 4. COUNTERACTING STRESS: The Cadence of Good Breathing (2m59)Patrick emphasizes the importance of breathing cadence to manage stress. By slowing your breath to a 5-second inhale and a 5-second exhale, you can activate your parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes calmness and relaxation.💡 Practical Tip: • Practice cadence breathing for 5 minutes a day. • Use it when you’re feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or stressed. • It’s a simple way to calm your mind, improve focus, and build emotional Resilience.📚 Additional Resources📖 Book Summary:👉 ⁠The Oxygen Advantage Summary⁠🎥 YouTube Link:👉 ⁠Watch the Full Episode⁠💡 Why This Episode MattersWe take breathing for granted but learning to breathe correctly can have life-chan...