The Genius Life

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You don't have to be born a Genius to become one. Follow health and science journalist, New York Times bestselling author, TV personality and nutrition expert Max Lugavere as he speaks to the most insightful minds of our time about what it means to live like a Genius.Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice.

Recent Episodes
  • 483: The Hidden Mindset Blocking Your Success (It’s Not What You Think) | Scott Barry Kaufman, PhD
    Apr 23, 2025 – 01:08:49
  • 482: The Best Workout Plan for Fat Loss and Muscle Gain (Exercise Scientist Explains!) | Bill Campbell, PhD
    Apr 21, 2025 – 01:20:48
  • 481: The Hidden War on Truth – Big Food, Big Pharma, and the Fight for Freedom | Zachary Levi
    Apr 16, 2025 – 02:11:18
  • 480: What No One Tells You About Success, Wellness, and Spiritual Burnout | Krista Williams
    Apr 14, 2025 – 01:30:01
  • 479: Are You Depressed Without Knowing It? The Hidden Signs No One Talks About | Judith Joseph, MD
    Apr 9, 2025 – 01:03:52
  • 478: The Dermatologist’s Guide to Younger Skin, Longer Life, and Smarter Sun Exposure | Teo Soleymani, MD
    Apr 7, 2025 – 01:40:07
  • 477: The Hidden Fertility Killers in Your Diet and Home | Lily Nichols, RDN
    Apr 2, 2025 – 01:17:40
  • 476: What I Learned from Interviewing 9,000 Drug Addicts, Sex Workers, and Gang Members | Mark Laita
    Mar 31, 2025 – 01:33:39
  • 475: How to Build Mental Fitness and Protect Your Brain in the Modern World | Drew Ramsey, MD
    Mar 26, 2025 – 01:15:19
  • 474: Creatine, Protein, or EAAs? What You Actually Need for Muscle Growth, Recovery, and Brain Health | Angelo Keely
    Mar 24, 2025 – 01:10:55
  • 473: The Secret to Handling Arguments Without Losing Your Cool | Jefferson Fisher
    Mar 19, 2025 – 01:05:53
  • 472: How to Escape the Money Trap and Stop Chasing More | Sahil Bloom
    Mar 17, 2025 – 01:22:59
  • 471: How to Hack Stress for Better Health and Longevity | Sharon Horesh Bergquist, MD
    Mar 12, 2025 – 01:11:45
  • 470: From Chronic Back Pain to Pain-Free – How Artificial Disc Replacement Changed My Life | Jared Ament, MD
    Mar 10, 2025 – 01:47:05
  • 469: Is Your Protein Powder Poisoning You? The Truth About Heavy Metals and Hidden Toxins | Oliver Amdrup-Chamby
    Mar 5, 2025 – 01:06:53
  • 468: Women Are Aging Worse Than Men – Here’s How to Fix It (Doctor Explains!) | Mary Claire Haver, MD
    Mar 3, 2025 – 01:06:42
  • 467: How to Boost Nitric Oxide Naturally for Better Circulation and Brain Function | Nathan Bryan, PhD
    Feb 26, 2025 – 01:06:29
  • 466: Why Strength Training Is the Key to Fat Loss, Longevity, and Metabolic Health | Sal di Stefano
    Feb 24, 2025 – 01:36:37
  • 465: How to Stop Overthinking and Master Your Inner Voice for Better Mental Health | Ethan Kross, PhD
    Feb 19, 2025 – 01:19:12
  • 464: The Best Exercises to Improve Your Speaking Skills and Vocal Clarity | Michael Chad Hoeppner
    Feb 17, 2025 – 01:11:33
  • 463: How to Supercharge Healing, Energy, and Performance with Hyperbaric Oxygen and Methylene Blue | Scott Sherr, MD
    Feb 12, 2025 – 01:17:37
  • 462: The Hidden Nutrient Deficiencies Sabotaging Your Health | Ralph Esposito, ND
    Feb 10, 2025 – 01:35:10
  • 461: How Bad Science Misled Alzheimer’s Research for Decades | Charles Piller
    Feb 5, 2025 – 01:08:26
  • 460: The Truth About Protein Powders, Red Dye 3, and Fluoridated Water | Luke Cook
    Feb 3, 2025 – 01:04:53
  • 459: How Psychedelics Are Transforming Mental Health by Healing Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, and More | Robin Carhart-Harris, PhD
    Jan 29, 2025 – 01:11:57
  • 458: How to Use Food as Medicine to Prevent Disease and Boost Longevity | William Li, MD
    Jan 27, 2025 – 01:36:56
  • 457: Why Belly Fat Is More Dangerous Than You Think (And How to Lose It) | Sean O'Mara, MD
    Jan 22, 2025 – 02:04:44
  • 456: How Mastering Saying No Can Simplify and Improve Your Life | Sunita Sah, MD PhD
    Jan 20, 2025 – 01:15:57
  • 455: Why The Secret to Healthy Relationships Is You | Jillian Turecki
    Jan 15, 2025 – 01:10:03
  • 454: How Clean Is Your Water? The Truth About Fluoride, PFAS, and Everyday Toxins | Aly Cohen, MD
    Jan 13, 2025 – 01:18:26
  • 453: Top Diet and Lifestyle Protocols for Longevity and Fat Loss, Plus Why Walking is the Ultimate Cardio | Mark Sisson
    Jan 8, 2025 – 01:28:53
  • 452: Busting Diet Myths, The Truth About Calories, and Taking Control of Your Health | Jillian Michaels
    Jan 6, 2025 – 01:27:28
  • 451: How to Heal from Any Addiction by Addressing Your Emotional Triggers | Adi Jaffe, PhD
    Jan 1, 2025 – 01:24:37
  • 450: How to Break Free from What's Holding You Back and Create Lasting Change | Rangan Chatterjee, MD
    Dec 30, 2024 – 01:43:00
  • 449: Seed Oils, Protein Myths, and the Truth About Healthy Eating | Luke Cook
    Dec 25, 2024 – 01:05:34
  • 448: What a Near-Death Experience Revealed About Living Well | Sebastian Junger
    Dec 23, 2024 – 01:20:37
  • 447: The Top Overlooked Reasons You’re Not Losing Fat (And How to Fix Them) | Allan Bacon, DDS
    Dec 18, 2024 – 01:51:44
  • 446: How to Discover and Monetize Your Purpose and Build a Life of Abundance | Cathy Heller
    Dec 16, 2024 – 01:23:16
  • 445: Why Protein and Muscle Are Your Secret Weapons for Fat Loss | Menno Henselmans
    Dec 11, 2024 – 01:10:51
  • 444: Exposing the Dark Secrets of the Food Industry That Keep Us Sick | Jason Karp
    Dec 9, 2024 – 01:24:12
  • 443: Why You’re Not Sleeping Great, and How to Fix It (Sleep Doctor Explains!) | Michael Breus, PhD
    Dec 4, 2024 – 01:12:58
  • 442: How to Get Healthy and Save Money in a Healthcare System Built for Profit | Brigham Buhler
    Dec 2, 2024 – 01:15:04
  • 441: The Dark Truth About Pesticides They Don’t Want You to Know | Carey Gillam
    Nov 27, 2024 – 01:10:07
  • 440: The Top Causes of Painful Sex and What to Do About It | Janelle Howell, DPT
    Nov 25, 2024 – 01:27:29
  • 439: The Shocking Link Between Breast Implants and Chronic Inflammation | Robert Whitfield, MD
    Nov 20, 2024 – 01:21:00
  • 438: Why We Need Laughter, Healthy Living, and Honest Politics Now More Than Ever | Brent Pella
    Nov 18, 2024 – 01:26:14
  • 437: Mike Posner on Walking Across America, Family Illness, and Finding Purpose Beyond Fame | Mike Posner
    Nov 13, 2024 – 01:44:03
  • 436: The Dark Truth About Dentistry, Root Canals, and Poor Oral Health | Dominik Nischwitz, ND, DDS
    Nov 11, 2024 – 01:36:53
  • 435: Is Big Food Poisoning Us? A Dietitian’s Perspective on Chronic Disease in America | Brigid Titgemeier, RD
    Nov 6, 2024 – 01:27:37
  • 434: Why Our Brains Are Wired for Negativity, and How It’s Sabotaging Our Happiness | Jamil Zaki, PhD
    Nov 4, 2024 – 01:07:39
Recent Reviews
  • thusisridiculous
    Max is a genius
    Max is my favorite interviewer, and has the most interesting guests.
  • Broski99_
    Max is the kind of man I aspire to be and his episodes have changed my life
    I started my health journey post covid in 2020 I used to eat seed oils and never went to the gym and never thought about toxins in or food water or air and after listening to max for about one year weekly I can say my health has improved exponentially I also have received advice on how to handle my emotions and stress and it has affected all areas of my life, health my first real relationship and also just straight up weight loss. I recently saw Max’s film and it made me like him even more as a person. Everything about this dude I look up to. Thanks man.
  • Emilyduschene
    Awesome podcasts that will change your outlook on EVERYTHING
    I just want to say thank you! Ever since coming across your show my lifestyle has changed for the better. Learning not only about nutrition & fitness but also general wellbeing. This show has opened my eyes to everything below the surface level stuff you are taught. I have learned more from these podcasts than my nutrition courses in college!
  • Didn’t see this coming!
    Damb, I just got goosebumps!
    I really enjoy listening to Max and his guests, but 481 should have been released on April 1st. Talk about The Not-Genius Life. This episode reeks of pandering. Max, you can do better. Hard stop
  • LVAngTay
    Episode 480 was weird
    Most episodes are pretty good, but 480 was ramble, disconnected and just felt “off”…missed the mark with that one
  • M Toomey
    Best Nutrition Podcast Available
    Max, At 67 years old, my mother is currently in her 9th year of Primary Progressive Aphasia. Your podcast has been a refuge for me during these difficult years and has provided so many resources to hopefully break this cycle in my family. Please continue your work and know you are helping and educating so many people more than you know!!!
  • Jen, NJ
    Haters gonna HATE
    Excellent fact based podcast. Period. Block out the negativity from children that can’t separate your content from politics. It’s unfortunate, but here we are- shake their dust from your feet. LOVE YOUR PODCAST!
  • kulamauigurl
    Refreshing
    My nutritionist introduced me to Max’s podcast and it’s since become a regular part of my podcast routine. Max is knowledgeable, balanced and fair in how he manages the discussions, and has amazing guests that are always interesting. The content on his podcast has definitely affected the way I live my life in a great way.
  • Emberwinds
    One of my favorites.
    I really enjoy this podcast and it’s become one of my favorites. Max brings on great guests, and the laid-back vibe makes it easy to listen to. Even though I’m familiar with many of the topics, I always learn something new. My only complaint my is that Max tends to use a lot of filler words like “you know,” “um,” and “yeah”. Sometimes, “you know” is used several times, up to five times in a sentence, which can be a bit annoying. It would be nice if the Max used more precise language, but overall, it’s still a great show I look forward to.
  • tracybarnhart
    Finally
    Proof beyond just words, unbiased views and never afraid to cross gender roles to share important information, this podcast is so informative and refreshing. Each topic gets better- thoroughly enjoy every episode!
  • Khins4
    Great
    I’ve listened to several of Max podcasts and also get emails from him as well. The podcast has such a wealth of knowledge and lots of relatable content. One of my favorites to listen to if you are trying to get more information on diet, lifestyle, health or even on a pregnancy journey
  • Tchrtvlr
    Disappointed
    I really am disappointed in Max and The Genius Life podcast. We’ve been listening since the early years, purchasing his first book and getting so much out of the experts he had on the show over the years. It was our go to podcast for health and wellness information, and we often listened to episodes on long road trips and plane rides. I’ve also followed Max on Instagram. Last year, as periodic political comments were made on the podcast, I just tried to ignore them. I’ve always kept an open mind regarding health, especially having an adult son who has lived with an autoimmune disease his whole life. Politically speaking, I’ve been supportive of issues on both sides, depending upon the issue and have never been “all in” for one side. Unfortunately, after the election things seemed to change on the podcast to the point where I couldn’t bring myself to listen any longer. I truly wish that Max had not gone that route. It’s a real shame.
  • CocoFrenchy
    Right wing grifter
    Used to be pretty level headed, even recommended getting the vac after his bout with Covid and now he’s an unapologetically right wing grifter. Blindly pro Trump all of a sudden to a point you wonder if it’s $. Do not trust a word this guy has to say on health.
  • ALadywithFrizzyHair
    Oh no!
    Long time listener, but because of Max’s political views, I can no longer be here. It breaks my heart to have heard this happen because Max once was (or at least seemed to be) such a level-headed source of interviews and ideas, but his recent opinions and backing of RFK and the Trump administration’s health policies has me running out the door. I cannot support someone who politically supports what the Trump administration is doing to people I love and to the rights I have to my own body. I am making the review based on Max’s content now (early 2025). If things change, I would be happy to admit I was wrong and will come back to rewrite this review to one that is more positive. Otherwise, this is what it is.
  • GAlahouzos
    Russell Brand?? Really
    You hold him up as one of the best speakers? He’s total noise pollution. Boo
  • Utility Bee
    Wishing you speedy recovery!
    Love your shows & content, keep up the good work!
  • GRD2150
    Phenomenal Podcast!!
    Tons of life changing information presented in a down to earth, easy to understand dialogue. This podcast is a must for anyone looking to improve their health. Thank you Max for all the time and effort you have put into making us more informed.
  • Kyndyll
    Just unfollowed
    It seemed like he started getting more off track and just heard confirmation that he’s on the RFK Jr MAHA train. Yikes. No thanks. I’ll stick with valuing credibility and science based information. Time is too valuable.
  • JNLCIA
    Needs Editing
    Max needs to find a way to ask question … GET TO YOUR POINT and STOP RAMBLING. Otherise, I’m getting off my treadmill or wherever I have control to stop listening.
  • I support women
    👎🏻👎🏻👎🏻
    Went completely downhill when he started posting political views. Stick to sharing what you’re actually knowledgeable about (hint: it’s not politics). Definitely removing this podcast from my phone and informing others to avoid as well
  • Ahoff25
    ✅✅
    Lots of great guests and very in depth, insightful info each episode. Love that he has common sense and isn’t afraid to share his POV! We need more of that masculinity and leadership in the world.
  • Stefuny R
    Straight up genius!
    Max, I can’t begin to tell you how grateful I am finding the genius life. Your episode with Dr. Omara made me proud to be a advent listener of your show. You’re MRI is á testimony you’re passionate about your health and others. I can’t wait for you to work along Congress and Continuously make America healthy again !! Thank you for all that you do !! -Stephanie Rodriguez RN
  • SparkyLaura
    Politics and Potty Mouths
    Jillian M probably had some good advice, but I was so distracted by her language- it’s all I could hear. And I’m no prude- just not the right place and right time. And suddenly this show had gone all in on the political far right. To infer that this political party is our hope for better health is laughable. Why even go there? All that being said- I’ve learned a lot by listening to the podcast and purchased quite a few of his recommended items. I’m not sure if I’ll continue to listen.
  • wanpmc
    Use the Info!
    Love this podcast and Max is a great host! But the latest reviews are ridiculous. Good grief people… get over your political selves!! Just listen to the info and think for yourself! Critical thinking is vital in life. Keep throwing the info out there, Max! Society will eventually circle around and start thinking again
  • Kickrockszuck
    Got weird & political
    Used to be an awesome podcast but it slowly came to its demise due to the weird political messaging. You can actually hear Max get more and more indoctrinated over time. It’s giving cult, unfortunately.
  • blue4indie
    Concerning Advice
    Having a health focused podcast with guests who say “I drink daily, it’s how I unwind! Just drink during the day” is dangerous and absurd. It’s almost laughable to hear this kind of archaic advice. I’m also not sure why guests are sharing their political beliefs on a health podcast? Check out “Zoe” if you’re looking for unbiased, science backed information.
  • knitagain
    No longer the show for me
    I really used to like the content on this show, but had to stop listening as it has become too political for me.
  • Greentea cupz
    Just uninformed
    Sadly this podcast has become really full of garbage “science”. Too bad.
  • Aims-Moji
    Love your show
    This guys views on addiction are so one sided. Really hard listen. Not all addiction is from underlying issues and if you’re an alcoholic you need to stay away from it. You can’t “fix something” and then think it’s okay to drink again. He needs more education before he causes more harm than good. Awful episode on addiction.
  • debruns
    Foxx News?
    I was enjoying the first couple of episodes, but to bring up Fox twice in one episode and generically state that ‘liberals’ are pro fast food? Then, I find out you were interviewed on Fox? You lost all credibility. There is much that needs to change. The food conglomerates basically own the FDA, but do you think for one minute Trump won’t do whatever they want if they will pay him? It’s far bigger than one party or the other, bigger than conservative and liberals. Sad you don’t see that.. But to think that fox and their form of government can fix things is ridiculous. It’s like cutting off your leg because you have a blister. Stick to the science.
  • Ion76NOLA
    Find Health for Yourself
    Each podcast for the Genius Life is full of dietary information. The guests are credible and speak upon their topics with down to earth authority. As someone who chooses to find nutritional content appealing as a basis of remaining healthy, I find each episode is full of great content and Max does a great job of keeping the conversation flowing while also coming across with his findings as well. There are episodes for anyone seeking to better themselves: nutritionally, physically, emotionally, mentally, & beyond; this podcast will be a fun and informative game changer. Easily 5 stars after listening to over 40 episodes. If you are upset that he’s political, then that’s on you.
  • J Miller31042
    When did health become political?
    I’ve listened for a few years but just can’t anymore. I have the latest episode a chance but turned it off after a few minutes. I’m not sure when health and well became so political but comments like the “left doesn’t care about health” is ridiculous.
  • Svalkar13
    “I support people of high integrity”
    I couldn’t believe you said this quote in the same breath that you praised RFK and Trump and quoted Tucker Carlson. Done with you. You are a brainwashed fraud.
  • tcjr_
    gross
    I’ve followed for years and can’t believe Max has clowned for Trump and RFK. I really wish I could be so ignorant and lack the compassion that these people do, life would be much easier. For someone so against propaganda, he sure loves to spread it.
  • health investig
    so disappointing
    When I began my journey into researching heath, Max and Genius Life were some of my first learning tools. Sadly in recent years I find he has become negative, cynical and much less science based. Adding his political views to the mix emphasized this new approach and I will stop listening as there are so many more intelligent and knowledgeable health podcasters out there.
  • SCM036
    Better than ever
    I’ve been a listener for years and have always appreciated the variety in guests and topics. The show has been better than ever recently with its focus on the systemic factors affecting our nations health and healthcare issues. Thanks Max!
  • DW driver
    Great show
    Excellent show. Great information. Thank you for taking the lead to help us all live healthier and take control our health. You’ve changed my life
  • Oh my1968
    Oh Max
    You were literally my favorite millennial podcaster! I just can’t listen to your podcast anymore and it makes me so sad! Listening now to your episode with Brent Pella and what a disappointment.
  • v8blues
    Really?
    You “need” TC? Really? Thanks for letting us know.
  • Update please
    Keep going
    Great show. I see a few reviewers have taken exception with your political views and would like to see you cancelled. What a shame. Keep going.
  • SweetSouthernSass
    Anti women
    I really used to love listening to max and learn from his guests but as a woman I can't overlook that he is a trump supporter and picked him over human rights. Buh bye
  • Drudgeworstappever
    One of the best podcasts on health
    I have been listening to Max for a few years, even bought his book. The show has great guests that provide info that other podcasts aren’t doing! Keep it up Max - you are doing the good work
  • RubySay
    Not So Genius After All
    I’ve been a regular listener for a couple of years. Over the past few months I’ve heard some tone deaf and cringe worthy comments from him regarding Trans youth, as well as showing a complete blindness to his white, CIS, male privilege. I chose to overlook those and keep listening. He then shares he voted for Trump. Being a woman (as well as just a sane individual), I cannot and will not support any person who votes to take my rights away. And I cannot respect anyone who doesn’t see rape, misogyny, racism, and homophobia as a deal breaker for presidency. If these things are not crystal clear to him, then I certainly cannot trust anything health and science related from him.
  • owilma
    Food industry
    Loved the episode with Brigid Titgimeier
  • Utterly flabbergasted
    Max jumped the shark
    Sorry, but I can’t look to someone for health advice who looks up to and supports an anti-vaxxer and someone who just all-around has the ethics of a toad (RFK). Who knows what other kind of bad advice he might give. Had to drop, sorry.
  • HartT1
    Sell out!
    I WAS a fan of Max until he turned on us and went all in on Trump. What sell out! For someone who seems to be into health, wellness and wellbeing, he’s supporting a fascist who will destroy our country. AND Max has perpetuated ‘bro’ culture to no end. No more Max!
  • c-sutton
    Amazing!!
    Absolutely amazing podcast. Every single episode makes you think. Keep going Max!!!🤍🤍
  • gapski13
    Too right wing
    I always loved Max, have read multiple of his books and loved the podcast… until he started bringing on more and more right wing shills and (proudly?) announced voting for DJT even though he supports “women’s rights.” Clearly caring for his women supporters’ rights is lower on his priority list, though, so I’m done. Unfollowed on all platforms.
  • ggarza917
    Very political
    Some episodes are great and I think Max has good intentions; but unfortunately him sharing so many political opinions that is so off putting. I didn’t follow the podcast for political opinions.
  • Just sayin, ok?
    MAGA
    Used to love this show, now had a MAGA guy (Bass) on telling me to how to follow science? Sorry, Max, vet your guests better. Adios.
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