Huberman Lab

In this Huberman Lab Essentials episode, I explain the biology and psychology of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and describe the neural circuitry behind repetitive "thought-action loops," including why compulsive actions actually strengthen the underlying obsessions rather than relieve them. I discuss the most effective treatments for OCD, including exposure-based cognitive behavioral therapy and SSRIs, and explain what the research shows about how these compare when used alone versus together. Finally, I describe a specific clinical protocol in which patients are guided into states of an

Cesar Millan is a world-renowned dog behavior expert. We discuss how to adjust your energy and behavior to ensure your dog is calm and happy and always follows your lead. Cesar shares specific tools for: returning home to your dog each day, structuring their walks, and eliminating aggressive behaviors and anxiety. We discuss how to determine if your dog is front, middle, or back of the pack order—a hardwired feature that determines much of their needs and personality. And we explore how human-human interactions are based on balances in energy, too. Both dog owners and non-owners will gain extr

In this Huberman Lab Essentials episode, my guest is Kyle Gillett, MD, a dual board-certified physician in family medicine and obesity medicine, and an expert in hormone optimization. We discuss science-based tools for optimizing male hormones across the lifespan, including the role of bloodwork, nutrition, and exercise in supporting healthy hormone levels. We also discuss testosterone therapy, hair loss, prostate health, and supplements such as creatine, L-carnitine, Tongkat Ali, and Fadogia agrestis. Read the show notes at hubermanlab.com. Thank you to our sponsors AG1: https://drinkag1.c

Ido Portal is a world-renowned movement coach who has developed specific practices anyone can use to greatly evolve their mental and physical health, and even gain clearer self-understanding. We discuss the effects of playful movement versus exercise, discipline versus willpower, and how approaching friction points in your practice with relaxed awareness can rewire your default reactions to stress and fear. Ido explains how to leverage transition states, such as the state between sleep and waking, to gain heightened bodily awareness and new insights. He also explains specific movement patterns

In this Huberman Lab Essentials episode, my guest is Dr. Layne Norton, PhD, an expert in nutrition, fat loss, and metabolism. We discuss the science of energy balance and utilization, including practical strategies for building lean muscle and losing fat. We also cover optimal protein and fiber intake, artificial sweeteners, seed oils, and animal vs. plant-based protein sources. Read the episode show notes at hubermanlab.com. Thank you to our sponsors AG1: https://drinkag1.com/huberman Carbon: https://joincarbon.com/huberman Function: https://functionhealth.com/huberman Timestamps (00:0

Dr. Paul Eastwick, PhD, is a professor of psychology at the University of California, Davis, and a leading expert on the modern science of mate selection in humans. We discuss what people actually look for in a partner, including surprising findings about age preferences, finances, and physical attractiveness. We also discuss why dating apps often lead people to select for traits that don't support lasting partnerships. We discuss how initial attractions form and evolve and which factors best predict romantic relationship stability and satisfaction. We also explain activities that can expand y

In this Huberman Lab Essentials episode, I explain the biology of flexibility and discuss the organ systems that shape range of motion and limb flexibility. I also discuss different types of stretching, which methods are most effective, and practical tools for timing stretching relative to exercise. Finally, I provide specific protocols for how intensely and how often to stretch to maximize flexibility, support exercise performance, and offset age-related losses of flexibility. Read the episode show notes at hubermanlab.com. Thank you to our sponsors AG1: https://drinkag1.com/huberman LMNT

Andy Stumpf is a retired Navy SEAL, world-record-holding wingsuit BASE jumper, martial artist, and author. We discuss the mental framework and moment-to-moment decision-making process that can allow anyone to build discipline and resilience and better navigate both everyday life and life's most challenging moments. Andy explains several simple-yet-powerful tools gleaned from his time in — and after — his SEAL career that can help you determine where to focus your actions and how to clear your mind of things you can't control or that hold you back mentally. Andy also shares and reflects on less

In this Huberman Lab Essentials episode, I discuss science-supported tools to improve sleep by supporting a healthy circadian rhythm using key behaviors and environmental cues. I explain specific morning, afternoon and evening behaviors that will increase daytime alertness and support deeper, more consistent sleep at night. I also cover sleep supplements, the effects of caffeine, alcohol and THC on sleep, as well as practical strategies for managing jet lag and shift work. Read the episode show notes at hubermanlab.com. Thank you to our sponsors AG1: https://drinkag1.com/huberman LMNT: htt

Dr. Marie-Pierre St-Onge, PhD, is a professor of nutritional medicine at Columbia University School of Medicine and an expert on the bidirectional relationship between nutrition and sleep. We discuss how even moderate sleep loss increases appetite, changes hunger-related hormones, and causes weight gain, even when calories are not increased. We also explain how meal timing and specific foods, like fiber, ginger, saturated fat, and various oils, affect sleep onset, sleep quality, and metabolism. Throughout the conversation, we discuss specific foods and diets that directly support weight loss,

In loving memory of Nolan Williams (1982-2025): ⁠https://stan.md/3Qle2zp⁠ In this Huberman Lab Essentials episode, my guest is Dr. Nolan Williams, MD, a triple board-certified psychiatrist and neurologist. We discuss cutting-edge treatments for depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), including transcranial magnetic stimulation, neuromodulation, and psychedelic-assisted therapies. We also discuss the neurobiology and therapeutic potential of specific psychedelic compounds, including psilocybin, MDMA, ibogaine, and ayahuasca. Read the episode show notes at hubermanlab.com. Thank

Dr. Abud Bakri, MD, is a board-certified internal medicine physician and expert in the science and clinical use of peptides. We discuss the history, uses, sourcing and safety of BPC-157, GHK-Cu, pinealon, epithalon, GLP-1s, retatrutide, melanotan and growth hormone-promoting peptides. We discuss the gap that exists between animal and human data and meaningful differences in the sources for different peptides. For those interested in peptides, Dr. Bakri provides a grounded look at the science, risks and uncertainties shaping the field today. Read the show notes at hubermanlab.com. Thank you t

In this Huberman Lab Essentials episode, I explain the neuroscience of grief, including how the brain maps relationships across three dimensions — space, time, and closeness — and why losing someone requires a remapping of those neural circuits. I describe how grief differs from depression, the role of oxytocin in driving yearning after a loss, and why people move through grief at different rates. I also discuss science-based tools for grieving adaptively, including how to access feelings of attachment while decoupling them from episodic memory. Finally, I explain how foundational biology — pa

Jeff Cavaliere, MSPT, CSCS, is a physical therapist and certified strength and conditioning specialist and one of the world's leading public educators on resistance training to build muscle size and strength, avoiding and overcoming injuries, and improving your posture and movement patterns (biomechanics). We discuss often-overlooked muscles and exercises that support decades of pain-free training and long-term progress. Jeff explains the best and most efficient ways to strengthen glutes, rotator cuff, neck, and foot muscles and connective tissues, and how to resolve back, hip, and other pain.

In this Huberman Lab Essentials episode, my guest is Dr. Eddie Chang, MD, a neurosurgeon and Chair of the Department of Neurological Surgery at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF). We discuss the neural circuits underlying speech and language, including how the brain controls the larynx, vocal folds and articulators to shape breath into words. We also explore his pioneering work on speech neural prosthetics — brain-machine interfaces that allow paralyzed patients to communicate by decoding neural activity into speech and avatar-driven facial expressions. Additionally, we examine

Dr. Nick Epley, PhD, is a professor of behavioral science at the University of Chicago and a leading expert on the science of social connection. We discuss how seemingly small daily interactions with strangers (as well as with people we know) can meaningfully improve our mental and physical health. Dr. Epley also explains how to reduce social anxiety using simple and easily accessible science-supported tools. We also discuss the data on assumptions — both the ones we and others make — and why so often those are wrong when it comes to social dynamics. Read the episode show notes at hubermanlab

In this Huberman Lab Essentials episode, I explain the neural circuits that activate and control aggressive states and behaviors. I discuss how hormones, genes and environmental factors such as day length can shift our aggressive tendencies. I also share science-based tools for modulating aggression, including sunlight exposure, heat therapy and supplementation with ashwagandha or acetyl-L-carnitine. Read the episode show notes at hubermanlab.com. Thank you to our sponsors AG1: https://drinkag1.com/huberman LMNT: https://drinklmnt.com/huberman Eight Sleep: https://eightsleep.com/huberman

Dr. Kentaro Fujita, PhD, is a professor of psychology at The Ohio State University and an expert in the science of self-control and motivation. We discuss the best tools for developing strong self-control: to do more of what you aspire to and cease doing things you would like to avoid. We discuss why you need more than one form of willpower to achieve sustained motivation and overcome procrastination. Dr. Fujita also clarifies the data on the 2-marshmallow test, delayed gratification and intrinsic vs. extrinsic motivation. Read the show notes at hubermanlab.com. Thank you to our sponsors AG

In this Huberman Lab Essentials episode, my guest is Dr. Casey Halpern, MD, a professor of neurosurgery at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. We discuss how deep brain stimulation and other neuromodulation approaches are being used to treat Parkinson's disease, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), binge eating disorder and depression-related symptoms. We also explore the brain circuits that drive compulsions, cravings and impulsivity, as well as emerging non-invasive tools for predicting and treating harmful behaviors. Read the episode show notes at hubermanlab

Dr. Paul Conti, MD, is a board-certified psychiatrist and an expert in how to improve mental health and increase your sense of agency and wellbeing. He is also an expert in trauma treatment. We discuss practical tools you can use to gain insight into your natural strengths and to make better life choices on your own behalf. We explore how these tools can help overcome low motivation, intrusive thoughts and self-destructive bad habits. We also discuss how to balance internal reflection and external action to ensure you move your life forward in the right directions. Thank you to our sponsors

In this Huberman Lab Essentials episode, I explain how the body senses and uses sugar, and why understanding those mechanisms can help reduce sugar cravings. I discuss different types of sugar and how they are processed by pathways in the gut and the brain to shape appetite and the desire for specific foods. I also share many science-based tools to help curb sugar cravings and support healthy blood sugar regulation. Read the show notes at hubermanlab.com. Thank you to our sponsors AG1: https://drinkag1.com/huberman Lingo: https://hellolingo.com/huberman LMNT: https://drinklmnt.com/huberma

Scott Galloway is a professor of marketing at New York University's Stern School of Business. We discuss masculine roles and obligations of past, present and future. We explore which are timeless and which are changing, and positive steps boys and men can take to create meaning and stability in their lives. We cover work, finances, health and relationships to build a grounded, purposeful life. We also discuss tech, social media, alcohol, cannabis and porn. Throughout, we emphasize specific daily practices for building mental, physical and economic resilience, compassion for others, and for nav

In this Huberman Lab Essentials episode, my guest is Dr. Erich Jarvis, PhD, a professor and Head of the Laboratory of Neurogenetics of Language at Rockefeller University and an investigator at the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI). We discuss the brain circuits and genes underlying spoken language and why the ability to learn and produce vocalizations is extraordinarily rare in the animal kingdom. We also explore why song likely evolved before language, how gesture and movement share deep neural roots with speech, the neurobiology of stuttering, why childhood is the optimal window for lan

Dr. Marc Brackett, PhD, is a professor of psychology at Yale University and director of the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence. We discuss the science of emotion regulation and practical tools to increase your emotional intelligence. Dr. Brackett clarifies exactly how to do that both in the context of relationships, but also things that you can do on your own to become more emotionally intelligent to later serve you in the context of relationships, work, school, etc. We also discuss how your childhood experiences influence your relationship with emotions, with particular emphasis on how bo

In this Huberman Lab Essentials episode, I explain how memories are formed and how key neurochemicals, such as adrenaline, can be leveraged to enhance memory formation. I also share science-based protocols to enhance learning, strengthen memory recall and reduce the number of repetitions needed to retain new information. In addition, I discuss how exercise supports cognitive function and memory and explore unique memory phenomena such as déjà vu. Read the show notes at hubermanlab.com. Thank you to our sponsors AG1: https://drinkag1.com/huberman Eight Sleep: https://eightsleep.com/huberman

Dr. Natalie Crawford, MD, is a double board-certified OB-GYN and reproductive endocrinologist. We discuss how to improve hormone health at any age and the importance of fertility markers not just for pregnancy, but as a powerful window into overall health, vitality and longevity. We discuss hormone replacement therapy, egg freezing, IVF, and what biomarkers like AMH really indicate. Plus, how anti-inflammatory diets and specific supplements can be beneficial and the impact of microplastics and certain fragrances on hormones. We also discuss lesser-known factors that deplete male and female fer

In this Huberman Lab Essentials episode, my guest is Dr. David Anderson, PhD, a professor of biology at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) and an investigator at the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI). We discuss the brain circuits that underlie how emotions emerge and shape behaviors, including the neural control of fear, aggression and pain. We also explore how hormones and neuromodulators influence these emotional states, and why understanding these hidden internal processes is essential for improving future mental health treatments. Read the show notes at hubermanlab.com

Dr. Dacher Keltner, PhD, is a professor of psychology at the University of California, Berkeley, and a leading expert on the science of emotions and human connection. We discuss the science of awe—what evokes it and how to access it. Dr. Keltner explains how awe helps us frame our experience of life and who we are both as individuals and collectively. We also discuss the role of humor in social bonding, dispel common myths about the biology of emotions and review the lesser-known factors that strengthen or inhibit relationships and communities. Read the episode show notes at hubermanlab.com.

In this Huberman Lab Essentials episode, my guest is Dr. Andy Galpin, PhD, Executive Director of the Human Performance Center at Parker University and an expert in building strength and muscle size (hypertrophy). We cover the core principles and protocols for building strength and muscle, including science-based guidance on reps, sets, frequency and rest intervals. We also discuss how breathing and mental focus can enhance training and how post-workout downregulation can speed recovery. Read the show notes at hubermanlab.com. Subscribe to Perform with Dr. Andy Galpin at performpodcast.com.

Dr. Marc Breedlove, PhD, is a professor of neuroscience at Michigan State University and an expert on how hormones shape brain development and sexual orientation. We discuss how prenatal testosterone impacts whether someone is romantically attracted to men or women later in life, and what correlates of sexual orientation — such as finger-length ratios — tell us about the role of hormones in brain and psychological development. We also discuss why the number of older brothers a male has biases sexual orientation. Throughout, we explain how nature and nurture interact to shape male-female differ

In this Huberman Lab Essentials episode, I explain how salt (sodium) affects mental and physical performance, as well as cellular health. I describe how the brain monitors sodium levels to regulate thirst and fluid balance, and why salt needs can vary depending on activity level, stress, blood pressure, and diet. I also explain how to determine the right sodium intake for your individual needs and discuss why some people may benefit from increasing salt and other electrolytes. Read the episode show notes at hubermanlab.com. Thank you to our sponsors AG1: https://drinkag1.com/huberman Funct

Dr. Rhonda Patrick, PhD, is a biomedical scientist and public science educator. She shares the exercise, nutrition, supplementation and lifestyle practices linked to better health and lower disease risk including specific cardio and resistance training routines, when and why to do intermittent fasting, ways to lower visceral fat, omega-3 sourcing, creatine for brain and muscle and peptides such as BPC-157. It’s broad and thorough coverage of how to build a total health program tailored to your goals and individual biology. Read the show notes at hubermanlab.com. Thank you to our sponsors AG

In this Huberman Lab Essentials episode, my guest is Dr. Emily Balcetis, PhD, a professor of psychology at New York University who studies how visual perception influences motivation and goal pursuit. She explains how to better visualize and overcome challenges to achieve physical or cognitive goals. We also explore the science of setting goals, measuring progress effectively and research showing how fitness level and energy state can shape how difficult the world appears. Read the episode show notes at hubermanlab.com. Thank you to our sponsors AG1: https://drinkag1.com/huberman Eight Sle

Dr. Richard Davidson, PhD, is a professor of psychology and psychiatry at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and a pioneer in the scientific study of meditation. We discuss how meditation changes your brain and body, how just 5 minutes daily can improve focus, stress resilience and your overall health, and we cover different types of meditation. We also address common myths such as the idea that meditation is to "clear your mind." And we discuss common challenges with meditation and how to overcome them. This episode offers both the science and the practical tools to build a consistent medita

In this Huberman Lab Essentials episode, I discuss the mechanisms through which deliberate heat exposure enhances both physical and mental health. I outline specific protocols for deliberate heat exposure, including recommended temperature ranges, frequency, timing, duration and sauna alternatives. In addition, I explain how to tailor your heat protocols to support your specific goals, such as increasing growth hormone, reducing cortisol or supporting cognitive health. Read the show notes at hubermanlab.com. Thank you to our sponsors AG1: https://drinkag1.com/huberman LMNT: https://drinkl

Dr. Alex Marson, MD, PhD, is a professor of medicine at the University of California, San Francisco. We discuss the biology of the immune system and cancer, and everyday choices that can increase or decrease your cancer risk, several of which are surprising but all of which are actionable. We also discuss immunotherapy, including how engineered T-cells can be used to defeat childhood and adult cancers. Dr. Marson explains CRISPR and gene editing to cure diseases, and we address the ethical questions surrounding gene editing in embryos, children and adults. This discussion is for anyone interes

In this Huberman Lab Essentials episode, my guest is Dr. Charles Zuker, PhD, a professor of biochemistry, molecular biophysics and neuroscience at Columbia University and an Investigator with the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI). We explore taste perception and how the brain transforms chemical signals from food into distinct taste experiences. We discuss how these taste signals shape both conscious choices and unconscious behavior, as well as how food preferences can change over time. Additionally, we discuss gut–brain signaling and explain why sugar is especially powerful at driving c

Dr. Alok Kanojia, MD, MPH ("Dr. K"), is a Harvard-trained psychiatrist and expert in both Eastern and Western medicine to improve mental health. He explains tools for unlearning maladaptive thoughts and behavior patterns and for making behaviors that better mental and physical well-being more reflexive in work, relationships and daily life. We also discuss ways to resolve trauma, build stress tolerance, increase intrinsic motivation and even change temperament. We also discuss how social media, gaming and online dating shape our identity and perceptions and how to navigate them healthily. Tha

In this Huberman Lab Essentials episode, I explore how different wavelengths of light affect the human body and how light exposure can improve sleep quality, mood and daytime alertness while supporting healthy hormone regulation. I also discuss the therapeutic use of ultraviolet and infrared/red light for a wide variety of benefits, including improved skin health and offsetting age-related vision loss. I explain the biological mechanisms behind these light-based therapies and offer practical tools that listeners can use to improve both their mental and physical well-being. Read the episode sh

Dr. Tony Wyss-Coray, PhD, is a professor of neurology at Stanford School of Medicine who is discovering factors present in young blood and in exercised blood that can improve brain, heart and other organ health. We discuss how different organs age at different rates and how to accurately measure biological aging. We also discuss the specific proteins found in blood when we are young and that are increased by things such as exercise, sunlight exposure, short-term fasting, specific foods and social connection that can significantly increase vitality, restore youthful functioning of the brain and

In this Huberman Lab Essentials episode, my guest is Jeff Cavaliere, MSPT, CSCS, a physical therapist, strength coach and the founder of ATHLEAN-X, an online training platform. We explain the foundations of an effective training program, including how to structure your weekly workouts and recovery to match your goals and schedule. We also discuss effective warm-ups and stretching, strategies to reduce injury risk and practical nutrition principles without strict calorie counting. Jeff's science-based approach offers clear, actionable guidance for anyone looking to improve fitness, physique an

Dr. Lauren Colenso-Semple, PhD, is an expert in the science of strength and muscle building and nutrition. She explains the most effective resistance and cardiovascular training programs for women and if and how those programs should differ from those followed by men. She explains program design options, exercise selection, sets, repetition ranges, rest periods, if you need to train to failure and much more. We discuss the relevance of menstrual cycles, (peri)menopause, birth control, body frame differences, as well as best practices for nutrition, hormone replacement and supplementation. Thro

In this Huberman Lab Essentials episode, I explore the psychology and biology of desire, love and attachment. I explain how childhood attachment styles can shape adult romantic relationships and how the brain and body systems influence emotional bonds. I also discuss supplements that may support a healthy libido and practical, science-based tools for understanding your relationship patterns and building stronger relationships. Read the episode show notes at hubermanlab.com. Thank you to our sponsors AG1: https://drinkag1.com/huberman Eight Sleep: https://eightsleep.com/huberman Function:

Dr. Kathryn Paige Harden, PhD, is a psychologist, behavioral geneticist and professor of psychology at the University of Texas at Austin. We discuss how genes interact with your upbringing to shape your level of risk-taking and morality. We also discuss how genes shape propensity for addiction and impulsivity in males versus females. Finally, we discuss how biology impacts societal views of sinning, punishment and forgiveness. Read the episode show notes at hubermanlab.com. Pre-order Protocols: https://go.hubermanlab.com/protocols Thank you to our sponsors AG1: https://drinkag1.com/huberma

In this Huberman Lab Essentials episode, my guest is Ido Portal, a movement coach and world expert on human movement. We explore the science and practice of movement, including how the nervous system shapes our actions, the distinction between reflexive and deliberate movement patterns and how emotion and awareness influence our movement. Ido shares how to build a holistic movement practice into everyday life through an exploration-based approach grounded in playfulness and self-inquiry. Thank you to our sponsors AG1: https://drinkag1.com/huberman LMNT: https://drinklmnt.com/huberman

Dr. Read Montague, PhD, is a professor and director of the Center for Human Neuroscience Research at Virginia Tech and an expert in how dopamine and serotonin shape human learning, motivation and decision-making. We discuss how they impact focused effort in the context of short- and long-term goals of all kinds. Also, how SSRIs and low-effort, high-engagement activities reduce the rewarding properties of dopamine, and how AI algorithms are revolutionizing understanding of the brain. Episode show notes are available at hubermanlab.com. Thank you to our sponsors AG1: https://drinkag1.com/hube

In this Huberman Lab Essentials episode, I discuss why play is a powerful yet often overlooked tool for shaping the brain across the entire lifespan, not just during childhood. I explain how play engages specific brain circuits and neurochemicals, allowing us to explore different roles and learn in low-stakes environments uniquely suited to learning. I also describe why adults benefit from deliberately reintroducing play and which forms of play are most effective for expanding cognitive flexibility and creative thinking. Read the episode show notes at hubermanlab.com. Thank you to our sponso

Dr. David Eagleman, PhD, is a neuroscientist, bestselling author and professor at Stanford University. We discuss how to leverage the science of neuroplasticity to learn new skills and information and how accurate and false memories form and are forgotten. We also discuss time perception and why it speeds up or slows down depending on our age and stress level. We cover dreaming and the meaning of visual and other dream content. And we discuss the neuroscience of cultural and political polarization and how to remedy it. This episode provides science-based knowledge and practical tools you can u

In this Huberman Lab Essentials episode, my guest is Dr. Paul Conti, MD, a psychiatrist and expert in treating trauma and psychiatric illness. We explain what trauma is and how it affects the mind and body, as well as the best treatment approaches to support recovery. We also discuss why guilt and shame often follow traumatic experiences and why processing trauma is essential for healing. Dr. Conti shares practical tools for how to choose and work effectively with a therapist and discusses the therapeutic potential of psychedelics and MDMA in clinician-assisted settings. Read the episode sh

Dorian Yates is a former professional bodybuilder, six-time Mr. Olympia winner and a pioneer of high-intensity, low-volume training for building muscle size and strength. He explains how anyone can vastly improve their fitness, mindset and appearance by training with weights just two or three days per week for less than an hour. We also discuss how to determine your natural strengths and passions and select which life path is right for you. Dorian also shares his journey and transformation from wayward youth to world champion athlete, his exploration of psychedelics, views on cannabis and on l