Episode 355: The Stimulated Mind: Dr. Tommy Wood on Building a Better Brain Through Training, Tech & Physiology

In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I sit down with my good friend Dr. Tommy Wood to dig into his upcoming book, The Stimulated Mind — a ridiculously practical guide to building a better brain.

We get into all kinds of fun rabbit holes: how technology is changing fitness, why lactate (yes, the same stuff you curse during hard intervals) is actually rocket fuel for your brain, and why a solid dose of cardio is one of the most underrated cognitive enhancers out there.

We also tackle resistance training, neuroplasticity as you age, and which sports and drills actually move the needle for cognition. And because it’s Tommy, we even wander into the spicy territory of psychedelics and whether they may have a place in brain health.

If you want real, actionable strategies to boost memory, focus, and long-term cognitive performance—without drowning in jargon—this episode is for you.

Tune in and geek out with us.

Sponsors:

• LMNT electrolyte drink mix: https://drinklmnt.com/
• Flex 4: Dr Tommy Wood's top 4 ways to improve your brain 
• Preorder The Stimulated Mind: https://www.amazon.com/Stimulated-Mind-Future-Proof-Brain-Dementia/dp/0593797817/ref=sr_1_1

Triphasic 2 book now available!

• Go to https://triphasic2.com/

Episode Chapters:

• 02:01 Dr. Tommy Wood's Background and Expertise
• 03:15 The Stimulated Mind: Translating Neuroscience into Practical Tips
• 04:01 Sponsors and Special Offers
• 05:09 Interview with Dr. Tommy Wood Begins
• 06:58 The Benefits of High-Intensity Exercise
• 10:37 Lactate and BDNF: Brain Fertilizer
• 17:16 The Potential of Lactate Supplements
• 20:49 The Challenges of Translating Preclinical Science to Humans
• 26:54 The Importance of the Hippocampus and Executive Function
• 29:53 The Benefits of Resistance Training for Cognitive Health
• 32:09 The Cognitive Benefits of Coordinative Training
• 34:30 The Importance of Recreation and Social Interaction
• 37:34 The Humbling Nature of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
• 38:12 The Stimulated Mind: Brain Function and Exercise
• 40:06 Neuroplasticity and Aging
• 40:50 Embracing Discomfort for Brain Growth
• 42:47 The Role of Dopamine in Learning
• 45:14 Flow vs. Clutch States in Performance
• 48:41 The Goat Drill: A Complex Motor Skill Exercise
• 53:13 Expanding Cognitive Headroom
• 58:00 Psychedelics and Brain Health
• 01:03:26 Wrapping Up: Book Promotion and Final Thoughts

Flex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy: 

• Episode 307: The Lost Episode on Body Composition Research with Dr. Tommy Wood and Dr. Ben House
  • YouTube: https://youtu.be/ytbNiJ25kiQ 
• Episode 178: Rebroadcast – Insulin and Glucose Myths & more with Dr Tommy Wood
  • YouTube: https://youtu.be/N7LchLtBJr4

Connect with Dr. Tommy Wood: 

• Substack: https://substack.com/@betterbrainfitness
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drtommywood
• Website: https://www.drtommywood.com/

Get In Touch with Dr Mike:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpg
• Email: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/