55. Unlocking Longevity: Dr. Mario Martinez on Epigenetics, Mindset, and Centenarian Secrets

What if the secret to living past 100 isn’t hidden in your DNA, but in how you think, feel, and connect with others? In this must-listen episode of Everyday Epigenetics: Raw. Real. Relatable., host Susan Robbins and soon-to-be co-host Kate King welcome the groundbreaking Dr. Mario Martinez, a clinical neuropsychologist who’s devoted decades to unlocking the mysteries behind healthy centenarians across the globe. Get ready to rethink aging, longevity, and what it truly means to thrive.Prepare to have your assumptions turned upside down as Dr. Martinez shares the surprising truth: genetics play only a small role in reaching a vibrant, long life. Most of what matters, he reveals, comes from our beliefs, emotional habits, rituals, and cultural conditioning. From the eight core factors for healthy aging to the mind-body effects of gratitude and self-worth, Dr. Martinez unpacks practical wisdom anyone can apply, at any age.In this episode:The real reason some people live well over 100, and why genes don’t tell the whole storyHow emotions and perceptions shape stress, inflammation, and healthspanThe difference between routines and rituals (and why meaning matters)Myths about aging and anti-aging that might be shortening your life without you knowing itWhy culture, self-valuation, and curiosity radically impact your biologyPractical steps to embody longevity and create your own centenarian mindset (it’s never too late!)Listen in for a fascinating fusion of science, psychology, and real-life tools to help you write your own healthiest story, one inspired habit at a time.Learn More about Dr. MartinezDr. Martinez is a clinical neuropsychologist who specializes in how cultural beliefs affect health and longevity. He proposes, based on multidisciplinary research evidence, that longevity is learned, and the causes of health are inherited. For the past 25 years, he has studied healthy centenarians (100 years or older) worldwide and found that only 20 to 25% can be attributed to genetics - the rest is related to how they live and the cultural beliefs they share. He is the author of the bestselling book The MindBody Code that teaches his theory and practice of biocognitive science for the general public as well as professionals in the life sciences. In addition to longevity, he also lectures on why our immune system is not just a protector. Instead, it responds to the cultural premises we learn to perceive and emote the world: How Meaning-Making Affects Biology.RESOURCES:Sign up for Dr. Martinez May 10 webinar! https://www.biocognitiveculture.com/event-details/solitude-loneliness-longevityConnect with Dr. MartinezCheck out all of Dr. Martinez’s links and articles over on the show notes!Visit the website: healthyawakening.co/podcastFind listening links here: https://healthyawakening.co/linksSHOW NOTES: https://healthyawakening.co/2025/05/02/episode55/Connect with Susan:Contact me for your DNA testing or epigenetic coaching!To schedule a FREE consultation, send an email to [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/susanrobbinshealthyawakeningInstagram: @susanrobbins_epigeneticcoachP.S. Want reminders about episodes? Sign up for our newsletter, you can find the link on our podcast page! https://healthyawakening.co/podcast