Best Mike Hightower Podcasts (2025)

1
Physiology Friday: [THYROID] Function, Dysfunction, Brain Chemistry, and Autoimmunity w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, Travis Mash and Dan Garner 43:06

4h ago43:06

43:06

In today’s episode of Barbell Shrugged: The Thyroid’s impact on weight gain What is the function of the thyroid What causes thyroid dysfunction The relationship between hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and thyroid Thyroids role in autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto’s and Grave’s disease How gut health affects the thyroid How Vitamin A regulates the t…

1
Aligning Actions with a Purpose Driven Life w/ Chris Hoppe, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #799 52:52

2d ago52:52

52:52

Chris Hoppe has spent nearly two decades immersed in the world of coaching — from CrossFit and personal training to recovery support, breathwork, and behavioral health. His approach blends performance and presence, helping clients not just optimize their bodies, but reconnect to their lives in a deeper, more meaningful way. Chris has guided people …

1
How Politics Changed: Former Mayor Elaine Brown’s Take After Years in Office 26:39

5d ago26:39

26:39

Former Jacksonville Council member, and former Neptune Beach Mayor Elaine Brown shares her thoughts and impressions on how politics have changed over the years of her extensive public service. There aren't many people who can claim to have spent eight years on the Jacksonville City Council, then eight years as Mayor of Neptune Beach, and now newly …

1
Physiology Friday: [LIBIDO] The Biochemistry of Improving Your Sex Drive w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, Travis Mash and Dan Garner 54:55

8d ago54:55

54:55

In today’s episode of Barbell Shrugged you will learn: The internal mechanisms that create your sex drive. How psychological, hormonal, and functional dysfunction impacts sex drive. The biochemistry of boners The nervous system’s response to sexual arousal The psychology of porn addiction Supplementation that can improve your sex drive Impacts of c…

1
The Truth About GLP-1 Medications w/ Dr. Garrett Butler, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #798 55:26

10d ago55:26

55:26

Garrett Butler, MD. Husband, father, son, friend, and family doc in rural WV. Undergraduate in Physics from Johns Hopkins University. Undergraduate in Molecular and Cell Biology from Towson University. MD from West Virginia University School of Medicine. Family Medicine residency at WVU SOM. Hospitalist at Vandalia Health Davis Medical Center. Outp…

1
The evolution of the Florida Times Union between 2003 and 2025 39:31

12d ago39:31

39:31

This week's guest on Mikes on Mic is Mary Kelli Palka, former executive editor of the Times Union. Mary Kelli joined the TU in 2003 as a staff reporter, later as Investigative Editor and finally as Executive Editor. She talks about the challenges for a daily paper, the shrinking number of staff reporters, the changing ownership and the increasing r…

1
Physiology Friday: [NUTRITION 101] The Exact Calories, Macros, and Micronutrients to Fuel Performance and Optimize Health w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, Travis Mash and Dan Garner 46:51

15d ago46:51

46:51

In today’s episode of Barbell Shrugged you will learn: How to determine total calories for your goals Why maintenance calories are important for body composition and health Why calories determine the size of your body Understanding energy balance and finding your activity multiplier How to properly increase and decrease your caloric intake to reach…

1
Flexible Cardio for People that Hate Cardio w/ Dr. Michael T. Nelson, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #797 49:04

17d ago49:04

49:04

Dr. Mike T. Nelson has spent 18 years of his life learning how the human body works, specifically focusing on how to properly condition it to burn fat and become stronger, more flexible, and healthier. He’s been called in to share his techniques with top government agencies, universities and colleges, fitness organizations and fanatics. The techniq…

1
Cracks in the GOP: State legislators and the Governor spar over tax cuts and tourism. 28:03

19d ago28:03

28:03

The usually united Governor and the Republican dominated legislature forces the 2025 session into overtime or special session to iron out tax differences, including the bed taxes which partially fund Visit Jacksonville and other cities tourist marketing organizations to a standstill. Visit Jacksonville's CEO Michael Corrigan joins the Mikes to disc…

1
Barefoot Revolution w/ Mark Sisson, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #796 1:04:32

24d ago1:04:32

1:04:32

Mark Sisson, widely regarded as the forefather of the Primal/Paleo lifestyle movement, is an innovator and trendsetter in the health and fitness world. He has written several best-selling books and a number-one-ranked blog promoting ancestral living. Mark founded Primal Kitchen foods to introduce healthful options for condiments and sauces to the m…

1
UNF’s Michael Binder Unpacks the Political Drama Dividing Florida—from Jacksonville's City Hall to Tallahassee 23:47

26d ago23:47

23:47

UNF Professor Michael Binder returns to Mikes on Mic to share his thoughts on the current political climate in Tallahassee as the governor finds his influence on the legislature waning. Dr. Binder also gives his assessment of Democrat Mayor Deegan's first 22 months and her relationship with the super majority Republican City Council and her priorit…

1
Muscle Analytics for Human Performance w/ Dr. Doug Goldstein, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #795 52:27

1M ago52:27

52:27

Founder, Altitude Performance & Measured Motion Former two‑sport collegiate athlete turned board‑certified orthopedic specialist, Dr. Goldstein blends lab‑grade muscle science with hands‑on care. After earning his DPT from the University of Colorado and completing both an orthopedic residency and fellowship, he launched Altitude Performance, a conc…

1
Inside Jacksonville with Mayor Donna Deegan! 20:28

1M ago20:28

20:28

Join Mike Miller, Mike Tolbert, and Mike Hightower as they sit down for an in-depth conversation with Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan, broadcasting live from her office in City Hall. Mayor Deegan reflects on her first 22 months, since taking office in July 2023). They dive into crucial topics facing Jacksonville. Tune in to the show on your favorit…

1
Physiology Friday: [Inflammation] The Surprising Link Between Nutrition, Muscle, and Inflammation w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, Coach Travis Mash and Dan Garner 51:56

1M ago51:56

51:56

In this Episode of Barbell Shrugged: What is inflammation why does your body have it How inflammation can improve performance The difference between Good and Bad inflammation Proper ways to reduce inflammation What is Chronic vs. Acute Inflammation Work with RAPID Health Optimization Connect with our guests: Anders Varner on Instagram Doug Larson o…

1
Living Alcohol Free w/ James Swanwick, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #794 56:50

1M ago56:50

56:50

Swanwick has worked as a print, TV and radio journalist. He began his career in 1993 as a reporter at The Courier-Mail in Brisbane, Australia. In 1996, Swanwick won the Queensland Media Award for his interview and exposé on Pauline Hanson, one of Australia’s most publicized and controversial political figures. Swanwick moved to London in 1999 where…

1
From Polling to Frontlines: Bruce Barcelo’s Mission Shift in Ukraine’s Darkest Hour 21:51

1M ago21:51

21:51

Mikes on Mic welcomes political strategist-turned-humanitarian Bruce Barcelo for a gripping, behind-the-scenes look at how one nonprofit transformed overnight when war broke out in Ukraine. When Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24, 2022, Bruce—an American pollster with three decades of ties to the country—didn’t just watch the headlines. He answe…

1
Physiology Friday: [Cholesterol] How to Read Bloodwork for Lipids, Triglycerides, and Fatty Acids w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Dan Garner Barbell Shrugged 44:22

1M ago44:22

44:22

In today’s episode of Barbell Shrugged you will learn: What are lipids What is cholesterol The difference between HDL and LDL cholesterol Why there is no such thing as “good” or “bad” cholesterol What are the bloodwork numbers for optimal cholesterol What is the perfect ratio of HDL and LDL Ratios for Triglycerides to HDL for optimal health Mechani…

1
Building the Endurance Athlete w/ Javier Pineda, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #793 52:18

1M ago52:18

52:18

Javier Pineda, endurance coach at RAPID Health Optimization and founder of Endurance Cartel, empowers athletes and professionals to master strength and stamina. With ten Ironman triathlons and two Ironman 70.3 races under his belt, he’s a CHEK Practitioner with top-tier certifications and insights from various mentors across his career. At DBC Fitn…

1
Jacksonville political pollster's thoughts on his long relationship with Ukraine 25:25

2M ago25:25

25:25

Jacksonville's Bruce Barcelo has had a personal relationship consulting the government of Ukraine since before the Russian invasion three years ago. Bruce joins the Mikes this week and next with his observations about Ukraine's independence from the former Soviet Union and helping them in their democratization process and their elections. Tune in t…

1
Physiology Friday: Managing Stress and Performance for Tactical Populations w/ Dr. Mike Lane, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash 49:15

2M ago49:15

49:15

Mike Lane is a professor at eastern Kentucky university teaching in the parks, recreation, exercise, and sports science on the graduate and undergraduate level. His phd is in exercise physiology with an emphasis in muscle physiology. Currently he works with a variety of sports and tactical athletes and performs research tracking those athletes and …

1
Heart Attack Awareness for Fit People w/ Joel Jamieson, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #792 46:43

2M ago46:43

46:43

Joel Jamieson is widely considered one of the world’s foremost authorities on strength and conditioning for combat sports, having trained many of the sports best athletes since 2004. He is the author of the bestselling book Ultimate MMA Conditioning and is a contributing writer to several top magazines and a frequent guest speaker at conferences an…

1
Was the murder trial of Kenneth Hartley a case of an innocent man wrongfully sentenced or perhaps railroaded prosecution? 29:58

2M ago29:58

29:58

In 1991, Gino Mayhew, age 17, was kidnapped and murdered.Kenneth Hartley was convicted of kidnapping and murder and sentenced to die in the electric chair. But there were many questions about the case, particularly the testimony against Hartley coming from jailhouse informants. Our guest this week is Tributary reporter Nichole Manna who investigate…

1
Physiology Friday: [Recovery] How to Build a Resilient Physiology w/ Anders Varner Doug Larson, and Dan Garner Barbell Shrugged 48:51

2M ago48:51

48:51

In today’s episode of Barbell Shrugged you will learn: How to define resilience Understanding psychology vs physiological resilience What are the biomarkers of resilience Cortisol wakening response and how it relates to stress response Is balance possible between stress and recovery How much stress can you body handle before physiology begins to br…

1
Rowing for Fitness, Strength, and Sport w/ Shane Farmer, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #791 57:29

2M ago57:29

57:29

Shane Farmer is the founder of Dark Horse Rowing. He’s a rower, a 4X CrossFit Games athlete, former gym owner, Concept2 Master Instructor and has made his career de-mystifying rowing for non-rowers. He’s married with two kids and has 13 chickens and an orchard. He loves soil regeneration, permaculture, and testing himself regularly at new and inter…

1
Politics: Showmanship or Statesmanship? 24:14

2M ago24:14

24:14

Two very important issues we may be facing in the coming months; Eliminating property taxes as a source of local revenue, and Duval DOGE. Councilman Matt Carlucci again joins the Mikes to give us his take on both of these potential game changers. Join us on this week’s episode of Mikes on Mic. Tune in to the show on your favorite Podcasting platfor…

1
Physiology Friday: [Body Transformation] Simple Strategies to Getting Shredded w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Dan Garner 48:10

2M ago48:10

48:10

In today’s episode of Barbell Shrugged you will learn: Setting goals for physique transformation How long should you plan for a bulk and cut Strategies for building muscle on a bulk How to handle lagging body parts Time frame for cutting weight and getting shredded Being realistic on the amount of fat you truly need to lose Prep cycles for peak wee…

1
Pain Free Performance at All Ages w/ Dr. Melissa Capurro, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #790 54:47

2M ago54:47

54:47

Melissa is a performance physical therapist and is heavily involved in the CrossFit space as a healthcare provider, as well as an athlete. Melissa grew up in the Metropolitan New York area, but now resides in the Tampa Bay area. Upon graduating from PT school, Melissa started working in an outpatient orthopedic physical therapy practice, but was un…

1
Following Up on Downtown Development 35:42

2M ago35:42

35:42

What’s the latest on downtown development? Mikes on Mic this week again features Downtown Investment Authority CEO, Lori Boyer. We’re seeing more cranes popping up downtown meaning more projects are breaking ground. Where are we in residential and commercial development? We discuss that and other issues with DIA CEO Lori Boyer this week on Mikes On…

1
Physiology Friday: How to Build a Killer Cardiovascular System w/ Dr. Mike T. Nelson, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash 51:58

2M ago51:58

51:58

In today’s episode of Barbell Shrugged, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis sit down with Anders coach, Dr. Mike T. Nelson. For those that have followed the show, you know Anders has been in pursuit of running a sub-6 minute mile at the age of 40. Dr. Nelson is the coach Anders hired to help with that goal. In this episode the crew walks through…

1
Building the Best Pilots in the World w/ Zachary Carson, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #789 54:51

2M ago54:51

54:51

Zachary Carson is a highly experienced Aerospace Physiology Officer with a deep understanding of human factors and risk mitigation in high-stakes operational environments. His expertise lies in optimizing human performance within complex aerospace systems. As a subject matter expert, Carson specializes in identifying and addressing the unique chall…

1
Mixing it up with the Mikes 29:19

2M ago29:19

29:19

Mikes On Mic is holding a round table discussion of some of the most current issues facing NE Florida and the state. They discuss the current rift between Mayor Deegan and former City Council president Ron Salem over how to negotiate the deal for the UF Grad School. The Mikes also discuss the $3 billion deficit in the Police Pension Fund and rampin…

1
Physiology Friday: [Optimal vs. Normal Health] Why Normal Reference Ranges Will Not Lead You to Optimal Health w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, Travis Mash and Dan Garner 55:45

3M ago55:45

55:45

In this Episode: The spectrum of health from sick, to not sick, and to optimal. Optimal is a word thrown around with ease in the healthy space. What does optimal health look and feel like? Why are the current blood markers in a normal range and not optimal? Where are normal reference ranges created? If you want to know optimal ranges, where do you …

1
Building a Fitness Franchise w/ Brandon Cullen, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #788 55:07

3M ago55:07

55:07

Born into an entrepreneurial family in Ontario, Canada, Brandon Cullen was raised with a front-row seat to hard work and high expectations. Pushed by his father to excel both in life and on the ice, Brandon’s grit landed him a spot in the New York Rangers’ minor league system. But when a career-ending concussion shattered his hockey dreams, everyth…

1
The evolution of the Jacksonville Civic Council with CEO Dennis Whittle 25:57

3M ago25:57

25:57

In 1993, the so-called Non-Group was formed at the time to tackle education issues in Jacksonville. In 2009, the organization of civic minded business leaders disbanded the Non Group and created the Jacksonville Civic Council. While the group was still focusing on important issues facing the city, it broadened the issues they addressed including th…

1
Physiology Friday: [Psoriasis] A 3-Step System to Find Root Cause, Relief, and Symptom Management w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, Travis Mash, and Dan Garner 40:03

3M ago40:03

40:03

What is psoriasis. How is it related to other skin issues like eczema, acne, and Rosacea. What is causing the body to overproduce skin cells as a protective measure. What lab tests likely need to be ordered to see immune disfunction and root causes. Topical treatments that help manage symptoms vs. addressing root cause. Are the skin issues the firs…

1
Building a Homestead Nursing Home and Finding the Right Primary Care Physician w/ Dr. Garrett Butler, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #787 57:47

3M ago57:47

57:47

Garrett Butler, MD, is a devoted family man and physician serving rural West Virginia as a husband, father, son, and friend. With a strong academic foundation, he earned undergraduate degrees in Physics from Johns Hopkins University and Molecular and Cell Biology from Towson University, followed by an MD and Family Medicine residency from West Virg…

1
Reflections from a former Mayor 28:22

3M ago28:22

28:22

Jacksonville’s mayor and the City Council have recently faced some difficult and at times controversial decisions about current and future issues which share one thing in common; they all cost money? What projects and programs should the city help finance and where will the money come from? Who better to ask than a former mayor who faced and dealt …

1
Physiology Friday: [Brain Health] Science and Strategies for Optimizing Brain Health w/ Dan Garner, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Coach Travis Mash 49:24

3M ago49:24

49:24

In today’s episode of Barbell Shrugged, we'll be discussing the various factors that impact brain health and exploring strategies for optimizing brain function. First, we'll be discussing the impact of exercise on brain health. Research has shown that regular exercise can help to improve brain function, enhance cognitive performance, and even reduc…

1
[Caloric Ranges] How to Eat More Food Without Gaining Weight w/ Zach Moore, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #786 49:28

3M ago49:28

49:28

Zach Moore is a highly sought after nutrition and exercise coach who has personally coached over 1000 clients. His clientele have ranged from top level professional athletes and physique competitors to health enthusiasts of all ages. Moore has worked with some of the most well known companies in the industry including Precision Nutrition, Nourish B…

1
Tariffs and a change in ownership of the Panama Canal impact Jaxport? 26:27

3M ago26:27

26:27

JaxPort is a major economic engine for NE Florida. How might tariffs and a change in ownership of the Panama Canal impact JaxPort? Our guest this week on Mikes on Mic is Robert Peek, JaxPort’s Chief Commercial Officer. We discuss how those two major international policies might impact business at the port. Join us this week for an in depth discussi…

1
Physiology Friday: [Liver Health] Verified Assessment, Optimization + Protocol Design 45:22

3M ago45:22

45:22

In today's episode of Barbell Shrugged the team digs into liver health, biomarkers, and optimization. The liver is a remarkable organ that performs numerous essential functions necessary for our overall well-being. Maintaining a healthy liver is vital, and understanding the role of biomarkers and optimization can help us achieve that goal. Our life…

1
Tracking and Optimizing Metabolic Fitness w/ Dr. Kamellia Dimitrova, MD, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #785 50:23

3M ago50:23

50:23

Dr. Kamellia Dimitrova, MD, is a pioneering physician, researcher, and innovator in metabolic health and longevity. With over 30 years of experience in mainstream medicine, including a background in cardiac surgery and clinical research, she has dedicated her career to transforming health outcomes through data-driven precision interventions. As the…

1
Jacksonville's Media Landscape: Nate Monroe Talks Changes and Challenges 25:24

3M ago25:24

25:24

This week, we're thrilled to welcome Nate Monroe, a distinguished columnist and newly appointed executive editor of the Tributary. Join us as we explore Nate's illustrious career, his motivations for transitioning from the Florida Times Union and USA Today Network to the Tributary, and his vision for high-impact journalism in Jacksonville and beyon…

1
Physiology Friday: Metabolic Flexibility and Micronutrients w/ Dr. Mike T Nelson 1:47:25

4M ago1:47:25

1:47:25

Dr. Mike T. Nelson has spent 18 years of his life learning how the human body works, specifically focusing on how to properly condition it to burn fat and become stronger, more flexible, and healthier. He’s has a PhD in Exercise Physiology, a BA in Natural Science, and an MS in Biomechanics. He’s an adjunct professor and a member of the American Co…

1
[Health Anxiety] Addressing the Underlying Fears of Injury and Aging w/ Emily Hightower, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #784 56:13

4M ago56:13

56:13

As an Educator and Coach at SH/FT, Emily Hightower leverages her expertise in the neurophysiology of trauma and resilience to help clients master their stress response and improve their quality of life. By combining over 25 years of experience as a breathing expert, yoga teacher, river guide, and wilderness EMT, Emily empowers high performers to di…

1
Some trashy talk on this week’s Mikes On Mic 30:29

4M ago30:29

30:29

Jacksonville’s resident trash collection fee hasn’t increased in nearly 15 years. As a result the only way to meet the ever increasing service costs is to continue borrowing the deficit from the general fund. Councilman Matt Carlucci has filed a bill to increase the fees for the service. Raising fees and taxes, however, is never easy and his challe…

1
Physiology Friday: [L-Carnitine] Protocols to Improve Heart Health, Performance, and Turn Fat into Energy w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Dan Garner 45:24

4M ago45:24

45:24

L-Carnitine is a naturally occurring amino acid derivative that plays a crucial role in energy metabolism within the human body. It is synthesized in the liver and kidneys from the amino acids lysine and methionine. L-Carnitine is primarily involved in the transport of long-chain fatty acids into the mitochondria, the energy-producing organelles wi…

1
How Your Cardiovascular System Improves Metabolic Health w/ Dr. Nathan Jenkins, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #783 51:50

4M ago51:50

51:50

Dr. Nathan Jenkins is the new labs analyst for RAPID Health Optimization. He was previously a tenured professor of exercise science, and has worked for many years as a nutrition coach with over 1000 clients to date. Dr. Jenkins blends evidence-based practices and real-world experience, with academic expertise in lifestyle modification for chronic d…

1
How Will Government Actions on State & Federal Level Impact Jacksonville & The NE Florida Region? 25:14

4M ago25:14

25:14

The three Mikes this week give you their take on some potentially impactful state and national issues that would impact NE Florida. How would Jaxport be affected if the US tries to take re-control of the Panama Canal? Is the state trying to dictate to school systems regarding start times at state middle and high schools? Locally, will we finally se…

1
Physiology Friday: [Oura Ring] Science Based Solutions to Improving Sleep with Dr. Mike Nelson 44:28

4M ago44:28

44:28

In today's fast-paced world, optimizing our health and performance has become paramount. Sleep, recovery, and performance are integral aspects of our well-being, and understanding and improving them is crucial. This is where the Ōura Ring comes into play. This revolutionary wearable technology aims to unlock your potential by providing insights and…

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