UNCONDITIONAL

Ultra-processed foods now make up 55% of the daily calories for the average American. How did this happen and should we be concerned?In this episode of Unconditional with Norbie Schickel, we explore how ultra-processed foods took over the modern diet, why they became so popular, and what their rise may have cost us in terms of obesity, metabolic health, hormones, diabetes, and human vitality.We look at the convenience, taste, low cost, shelf stability, and marketing power that made ultra-processed foods nearly impossible to avoid. We also examine the bigger question: is the modern health crisis really just about calories, willpower, and exercise—or has the food itself fundamentally changed?This episode covers the rise of ultra-processed foods, the NOVA food classification system, Brazil’s role in defining UPFs, Kevin Hall’s groundbreaking research, Dr. Weston A. Price’s work on traditional diets, Nestlé’s floating supermarket in the Amazon, and the global shift away from whole, minimally processed foods.If you care about real food, weight loss, metabolic health, nutrition science, obesity, fitness, hormones, or seek answers to the following questions: 1. What are ultra-processed foods? 2. Are ultra-processed foods unhealthy? 3. Do ultra-processed foods cause weight gain? This episode is for you. Subscribe for more conversations on health, fitness, real food, and building an unconditional life.#UltraProcessedFoods #ProcessedFood #MetabolicHealth #FitnessPodcast #HealthPodcastResources Discussedhttps://a.co/d/04pDdnA8https://a.co/d/0bQUaXpjhttps://youtu.be/bqc8AgO9L5c?si=pVhHkRRnXgQ--SoJhttps://youtu.be/CH-vQ2t-y2o?si=lBhfAg9Rrdjuk72ehttps://www.cell.com/cell-metabolism/fulltext/S1550-4131%2825%2900360-2?utm_source=chatgpt.comhttps://www.cell.com/cell-metabolism/fulltext/S1550-4131%2825%2900360-2?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Dr. Weston A Price's Nutrition & Physical Degeneration is the most important book ever written on human health and nutrition. Full stop. But how many of the foods and ideas commonly associated with Dr. Price  actually appear in the book or in the traditional populations he studied? The answer may surprise you. Whether you love Price's work, hate it, or have never heard the name... this episode of Unconditional with Norbie Schickel is for you. 00:00 What Everyone Gets Wrong About Weston A Price05:57 Unique Time, Unique Place & Unique Person08:53 The War With Iran10:34 Many Foods Commonly Associated With Dr. Weston A Price Are Wrong19:55 Intervention Diet Was Not Designed To Be Optimal29:10 Dr. Weston A Price Would Have Been Pescatarian 33:50 Weston A Price Did NOT Debunk Plant Based Diets39:08 Dr. Weston A Price - Alcohol, Prohibition & the 1930sLink DiscussedDr. Weston A Price - Part 1 | Apple | Spotify Dr. Weston A Price - Part 2 | Apple | Spotify#ancestraldiet #ancestralnutrition #westonprice #realfoods

Who burns more calories in a day: a sedentary office worker in an average American city, or a highly active African hunter-gatherer who walks 7 miles a day foraging and tracking game?The answer seems obvious, but science tells a completely different—and shocking—story.Welcome back to another mind-blowing episode of Unconditional with Norbie Schickel. This week, we are diving deep into the fascinating phenomenon known as The Exercise Paradox. When researchers compared the daily energy expenditure of these two vastly different groups, they found that they consumed and burned almost exactly the same amount of calories.But what does this mean for you? If exercise doesn't significantly increase our daily calorie burn, is it actually useless for weight loss? Have our fundamental beliefs about metabolism, fitness, and calories been completely turned upside down?In this episode, we explore:The Hunter-Gatherer vs. Office Worker Study: Breaking down the shocking scientific observations that defy common sense.The Truth About Calorie Burn: Why highly active lifestyles don't necessarily equate to higher daily energy expenditure.Exercise and Weight Loss: Unpacking the claim that working out builds muscle and reduces stress, but might not actually help you lose weight.The Consumption Equation: Are our issues with weight management primarily on the consumption side rather than the exercise side?Rethinking Calories: Why we may need to question our most basic ideas regarding human metabolism and energy.Whether you are a fitness enthusiast, someone trying to lose weight, or just curious about human biology, this episode will completely change the way you look at your next workout.Listen now to uncover the truth behind the Exercise Paradox.Links To Sources DiscussedThe Energy Paradox - Scientific American Hunter-Gatherer Energetics and Human Obesity Keywords Exercise paradox, calorie burn, weight loss myths, metabolism, hunter-gatherer vs sedentary, does exercise burn calories, fitness science, energy expenditure, Unconditional Podcast, Norbie Schickel, health and wellness.

The average American gets over 55% of their calories from ultra-processed foods… and for years, many have suspected this plays a major role in weight gain and metabolic dysfunction.But here’s the shocking part…The first randomized controlled trial to actually test this didn’t happen until 2019.Led by top NIH researcher Kevin Hall, the study compared ultra-processed vs. unprocessed diets—matched for calories, protein, fat, sugar, and fiber.Same macros. Same calories.And yet…Participants gained weight on the ultra-processed diet …and lost weight on the unprocessed dietSo what’s really going on?In this episode, we break down: What the study actually proves (and what it doesn’t)  Why participants eating ultra-processed foods consumed ~500 more calories per day  The overlooked role of hunger hormones like ghrelin and PYY  Why this study doesn’t fully settle the “calories in vs. calories out” debate  And the one insight almost no one is talking about We also explore the real-world implications—cost, convenience, and why ultra-processed foods dominate modern diets.If you care about fat loss, metabolic health, or the future of nutrition science… this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.#UltraProcessedFoods #MetabolicHealth #WeightLoss

Is staying natural the smarter path to building muscle, improving fitness, and protecting long-term health? In this episode of Unconditional with Norbie Schickel, we break down the rising trend of steroids, SARMs, peptides, and performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs)—and make a powerful, evidence-based case for staying natty.From TikTok fitness influencers to everyday gym-goers, PED use is becoming mainstream—especially among young men chasing faster gains and aesthetic physiques. But what are the real tradeoffs?This episode explores the hidden risks of steroids and PEDs, including:The link between PED use and body dysmorphiaHow drugs may break the connection between fitness and healthWhy natural lifters are more likely to achieve sustainable, aesthetic physiquesThe unknown long-term health risks of modern performance-enhancing compoundsThe influence of social media, looksmaxxing culture, and pharmaceutical incentivesWe also compare classic physiques like Steve Reeves to modern bodybuilding icons, highlighting how training, expectations, and drug use have reshaped the definition of fitness.If you’re considering steroids, TRT, or other enhancements—or simply want to build muscle naturally, safely, and sustainably—this episode is a must-listen.Key Topics: natural bodybuilding, steroids side effects, SARMs risks, TRT, fitness vs health, muscle building, body image, gym culture, longevity, aesthetics, performance enhancement🎧 Tune in and discover why staying natural might be your best move—for your body, your mindset, and your future.#StayNatty #NaturalBodybuilding #FitnessTruth #SteroidFree #PEDsAwareness

Does eating fat actually make you fat? Or has modern nutrition science gotten the story backwards?In this episode of Unconditional, Norbie Schickel explores one of the biggest debates in modern nutrition: low-carb vs. low-fat diets and whether fat loss really comes down to “calories in, calories out.”The episode revisits the rise of the low-carb movement after Gary Taubes’ influential 2002 article, “What If It’s All Been a Big Fat Lie?”, which challenged decades of dietary advice by arguing that carbohydrates and sugar—not dietary fat—may be the real drivers of obesity and metabolic dysfunction.But when proponents of the carbohydrate-insulin model put their theory to the ultimate test in a gold-standard randomized controlled trial conducted by NIH researcher Kevin Hall, the results appeared to contradict the low-carb hypothesis. Headlines quickly declared victory for low-fat diets.Norbie breaks down what the study actually found—and more importantly, how it was designed. From the surprisingly small sample size to the six-day dietary intervention and calculated fat loss measurements, this episode explores the details that rarely make it into headlines.Along the way, the conversation raises a bigger question: How should we interpret nutrition science—and what counts as real evidence when it comes to health and fat loss?If you’re interested in nutrition science, metabolic health, keto and low-carb diets, the food pyramid debate, and the limits of “following the science,” this episode is a fascinating deep dive.CHAPTERS00:00 Intro: Fat vs Carbs & Gold Standard Science06:04 Science & Nutrition - The Stakes & Context06:42 Calories In Calories Out Is At Stake07:50 The Role Of Dietary Fat & Weight Gain is at Stake08:45 The Role of Science in Nutrition is at Stake11:34 Humans Have Historically NOT Relied On Science For Nutrition17:29 Gary Tuabes vs Kevin Hall - The Big Fat Debate27:18 The Actual Study37:46 The Validity of Fat Burn Measurements40:09 Study Design and Its Implications42:22 The Role of Science in Nutrition#metabolichealth #fatloss #ketodiet #lowcarbdiet #weightlossRESOURCES Kevin Hall PaperBBC Article 

What if the last 10 years of your life are nothing like you imagine?In this episode of Unconditional, Norbie reflects on turning 42 (10.5 leap years) and dives deep into longevity, health span, and how to train for what Dr. Peter Attia calls the Marginal Decade — the final decade of your life that you won’t see coming.Inspired by a powerful centenarian quote featured by Business Insider — “If I think old, I’m going to act old” — this episode explores why mindset alone isn’t enough. You have to physically prepare now for the life you want later.Norbie also addresses the recent controversy surrounding Attia’s association with Jeffrey Epstein, and asks: Can powerful ideas stand apart from flawed people?In This Episode:Why modern fitness culture may be drifting away from real healthThe truth about aging vs. inevitable declineThe “Four Horsemen” most likely to break down as you age: Knees. Hips. Back. Shoulders.How to bulletproof your body for independence in your 70s, 80s, and beyondWhy fixing small pains now is critical for long-term vitalityFeaturing practical insights from:Ben Patrick (Knees Over Toes Guy)Dr. Stuart McGillThis isn’t about aesthetics. It’s about building strength, mobility, and resilience for the final decade of your life — whenever it comes.Train for the long game. Your marginal decade is coming.CHAPTERS00:00 Training For Longevity05:10 The Disgraced Dr. Peter Attia12:02 The Marginal Decade18:30 The Four Horseman Of The Aging Apocalypse23:05 Bulletproofing Knees For Longevity34:20 Bulletproofing Hips For Longevity41:56 Bulletproofing The Back For Longevity42:11 Back Pain Insights From Dr. Stuart McGill48:31 Bulletproofing Shoulders For Longevity52:17 Building a Marginal Decade for LongevityAI OVERVIEWNorbie Schickel explores the concept of longevity, health span, and the importance of training for the 'marginal decade' of life. Drawing on insights from Dr. Peter Attia, Ben Patrick and Dr. Stuart McGill and personal experiences, he emphasizes the significance of maintaining key body systems—knees, hips, back, and shoulders—to ensure vitality and independence in later years.keywordslongevity, health span, marginal decade, aging, fitness, knee health, hip mobility, back pain, shoulder strength#longevity #heathspan #fitover40

We’ve never had more gyms, trainers, or fitness advice—so why are more people overweight than ever? What if the modern fitness gym, and an industry shaped by bodybuilding is actually keeping you from building the lean, ripped and athletic body that you are going for?In this episode of Unconditional with Norbie Schickel, we break down how to build a lean, muscular, athletic physique without relying on expensive gyms, complicated machines, or bodybuilding-style “bro splits.” After personally losing nearly 50 pounds while leaving traditional gym training behind, Norbie explores the simple, brutally effective training methods that transformed his body, energy, and performance.You’ll discover how bodyweight training, resistance bands, and kettlebells can deliver powerful results—helping you burn fat, build muscle, improve mobility, and increase endurance from home or anywhere. We also dive into the hidden influence of bodybuilding on modern fitness, the benefits of HIIT training, and why consistency—not complexity—is the real key to getting ripped and staying healthy long term.Whether your goal is fat loss, muscle gain, functional strength, or longevity, this episode provides practical insights and minimalist tools to help you reclaim your health and build your strongest body—without the gym.Topics covered:• How to build muscle and lose fat without a gym• Bodyweight workouts for strength and fat loss• Resistance bands for progressive overload and mobility• Kettlebell training for power, endurance, and aesthetics• Why HIIT training is so effective for recomposition• Escaping bodybuilding-style training that doesn’t fit your goals• Simple, low-cost tools for lifelong fitness and healthPerfect for listeners interested in: home workouts, kettlebell training, resistance band workouts, calisthenics, HIIT, fat loss, muscle building, functional fitness, longevity, and minimalist fitness.Chapters00:00 Modern Fitness Has Led Us Astray05:59 The Why For This Episode06:27 The Influence of Bodybuilding on Fitness10:07 Bodybuilding Is A Poor Match For Many People20:02 Beyond Bodybuilding: Bands, Bells & Bodyweight Training20:36 Bodyweight Training22:56 The Single Greatest Bodyweight Movement?33:00 Bodyweight Exercises and Variations36:36 Training With Bands42:31 Training With Kettlebells43:01 Kettlebell Movements and Techniques55:41 Kettlebell Movements for Longevity59:08 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsResources ReferencedKettlebell Sport Vs. Hardstyle Anthem AthleticsPavel TsatsoulineCoach Dan JohnnAder Kettlebells (No Affiliation) #fatloss #minimalistworkout #kettlebells #functionaltraining #hiit

The average American consumes about 17 teaspoons of added sugar per day. It’s in candy and soda, sure… but also pasta sauce, ketchup, and nearly everything processed. At a time when over 70% of adults are overweight or obese—and rates of depression and metabolic disfunction are climbing—it’s worth asking:Is sugar at the root of the problem?In this episode of Unconditional with Norbie Schickel, I share my personal story of how sugar—despite being lean and in shape—was destabilizing my mood, affecting my marriage, and turning me into someone I didn’t like.We discuss:Metabolic dysfunction, obesity, and insulin resistanceThe emerging world of metabolic psychiatrySugar, cancer, and why artificial sweeteners may not be the answerWhy willpower is a bad betWhy most substitution strategies failThe two practical shifts that finally helped me break the habitAnd for the parents out there… how I approach sugar with my own kids.No shame. No moralizing. Just effective vs. ineffective—and how to reclaim your health in a world where sugar is everywhere.If sugar has its hooks in you… there’s a way out.CHAPTERS00:00 The Sugar Epidemic10:24  Stakes in Context: The Why Behind Sugar's Impact 10:47 The Link Between Sugar, Obesity & Metabolic Health13:41 Metabolic Psychiatry - The Link Between Sugar & Mental Health18:32 Sugar, Cancer, and Artificial Sweeteners23:02 How I Realized Sugar Was Destroying My Life25:42 Sugar Was Hurting My Brain26:52 Breaking Free: The How of Cutting Sugar27:30 #1 Break The Habit - Substitution With A Twist29:00 Why Substitution Typically Fails 35:31 #2 - Eat More Food - Real Protein, Fats & Fiber35:50 Are Sugar Cravings A Signal For Protein40:15 Navigating Sugar in Daily Life44:05 Teaching Kids About Sugar and Self-ControlAI OVERVIEWIn this episode, Norbie Schickel discusses the pervasive presence of sugar in the American diet, its health implications, and its connection to mental health. He shares personal experiences with sugar addiction and offers strategies for breaking the habit. The conversation also touches on the importance of educating future generations about sugar consumption and making healthier choices.#sugarfree #metabolichealth #mentalhealth

Are young men destroying their hormones to win at Tinder?In 2014, Jeremy Meeks’ mugshot went viral — not because of his crime, but because of his looks. Within months of leaving prison, he was modeling for major fashion brands. A redemption story? Maybe. Or maybe something else.In this episode of Unconditional, Norbie Schickel dives deep into the controversial rise of “looksmaxxing” — a growing movement of young men using everything from fitness and jaw exercises to Botox, testosterone, fillers, anabolic steroids, and even extreme cosmetic surgery to increase their “sexual market value.”Is this rational self-improvement in the age of dating apps? Or are we watching a generation gamble its health in response to distorted online incentives?In this conversation, we discuss:The data behind dating apps and match inequalityWhy the top 10% of male profiles may receive the majority of matchesThe psychology and biology of attractivenessSoft maxing vs. hard maxingTestosterone use in teens and young menThe risks of pharmaceutical “optimization”Social media’s impact on male mental healthPromiscuity, hypergamy, and the future of relationshipsWhether young men are responding logically… or destructivelyThis isn’t mockery. And it isn’t moral panic. It’s an honest engagement with an uncomfortable question:If the system feels rigged, how far should you go to change your odds?For young men navigating modern dating, parents raising sons and daughters, or anyone curious about the intersection of fitness, masculinity, social media, and culture — this is a conversation you can’t ignore.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction -  Looksmaxxing: Logic or Lunacy?05:27 What The Hell Is Lookmaxxing?09:58 The Why. The Case For Looksmaxxing17:23 Soft-Maxxing vs Hard-Maxxing18:49 What Is Bonesmashing?19:30 Looks Are Not Just For Romance 20:33 Modern Dating Apps Are Rigged Against Average Men21:44 The Twin Forces of Hypergamy & Promiscuity22:50 Marriage Has Historically Been A Stabilizing Force For Young Men26:25 The Health Implications of Lookmaxxing30:04 Natural Testosterone And Synthetic Testosterone Aren't The Same33:55 Is Faster Attainment Better?37:00 Pharmaceuticals, Drugs & Looksmaxxing44:27 If The Game Is Rigged, Choose Another Game46:44 Men Massively Outnumber Women On Some Dating AppsAI SummaryIn this conversation, Norbie Schickel explores the themes of physical attractiveness, the phenomenon of looks maxing, and its implications on dating and societal dynamics. He discusses how societal standards of beauty influence personal choices and the rise of pharmaceuticals and cosmetic procedures in the pursuit of attractiveness. The conversation also delves into the skewed dynamics of online dating, the societal implications of attractiveness, and the importance of health and fitness in achieving personal goals.#looksmaxxing #testosterone #menshealthIncrease Testosterone Naturally | 950 Over Age 40 - Without Drugs or TRT | Ep 19Adventure Is the Answer: Freedom & Balance in a World of Screens | Ep 18Smartphones, Social Media & The Anxious Generation | Ep 17

Testosterone is so powerful it had to be banned from sports.So why are modern men producing 25% less of it than they were just 15 years ago?In this episode of Unconditional, Norbie Schickel breaks down one of the most alarming — and misunderstood — health trends of our time: the collapse of testosterone in modern life.Testosterone isn’t just about muscle, sex drive, or aggression. It’s the hormone that fuels energy, motivation, confidence, focus, fertility, mental health, and long-term vitality — for men and women alike. And yet, testosterone levels in young and middle-aged men have plummeted at historic rates, even after accounting for obesity and lifestyle changes.So what’s actually going on?Drawing from personal blood work (950 total testosterone at age 41), scientific research, and evolutionary principles, Norbie explains why this decline isn’t inevitable — and why relying on testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) may come with serious long-term tradeoffs, including fertility loss and lifelong dependence.In this episode, you’ll learn:·       Why testosterone is the hormone that makes striving feel good·       The hidden lifestyle and environmental factors suppressing testosterone·       How low testosterone impacts mood, motivation, energy, and mental health·       Why women need testosterone — often more than estrogen·       The difference between natural testosterone production and TRT·       The most effective, non-pharmaceutical ways to raise testosterone·       How diet, sleep, sunlight, training, alcohol, stress, and modern habits affect hormones·       The simplest real-world indicators that your testosterone is improvingThis is not about shortcuts, injections, or biohacking gimmicks. It’s about restoring the conditions your body needs to function as it was designed to — and rejecting the idea that decline after 30 is unavoidable.If you care about performance, health, longevity, or living with drive and purpose well into midlife and beyond, this episode will change how you think about testosterone — and what you do about it.🎧 Listen now and take back control of your biology. CHAPTERS00:00 The Awesome Power of Testosterone02:10 Testosterone is Incredible for Men And Women05:42 The Negative Consequences of Low Testosterone10:49 Testosterone Levels In American Men Have Fallen Dramatically13:37 Is TRT the Answer To Declining Testosterone Levels19:19 Is Declining Testosterone Truly Inevitable21:47 How To Raise Your Testosterone Naturally Without TRT23:24 Food for High Testosterone25:54 The Wrong Water Can Tank Your T27:11 Dietary Fat & Cholesterol Build Testosterone34:19 Do Not Miss These Micronutrients40:47 These Are Secretly Tanking Your Testosterone41:00 Pornography Is Crushing Your Drive43:50 Cutting Alcohol Raised My Testosterone To 950 After 4046:49 Sunlight - Especially For Dark Skin Men48:20 T-Levels and Birth Control?50:07 Conclusion & Thank YouKEYWORDStestosterone, health, diet, lifestyle, mental health, exercise, alcohol, pornography, natural remedies, hormone optimizationAI OVERVIEWThis conversation explores the critical role of testosterone in health, its decline over time, and the various lifestyle and dietary factors that can influence testosterone levels. The discussion emphasizes the importance of natural methods to boost testosterone, including diet, exercise, and mental health considerations, while also addressing the negative impacts of pornography and alcohol on hormone levels. 

This is an unofficial Part 2 to last week’s episode on smartphones and social media. If screens are pulling us into the virtual world, this episode explores why real-world adventure, risk, and connection may be the antidote.Last week was the diagnosis. This episode is about what comes next.Smartphones and social media aren’t going anywhere. The question is whether we drift passively into a screen-dominated life—or choose something better. Not by banning technology or pretending it doesn’t exist, but by building a real world that can actually compete with it.In this episode of Unconditional, Norbie Schickel makes the case that adventure is the answer. That risk, responsibility, and unfiltered experience aren’t problems to be managed—but necessities we’ve been quietly removing. And when real life gets thin, the virtual world rushes in to fill the gap.Through personal stories, parenting experiments, and hard-earned lessons, this conversation explores:Why rules and restrictions alone rarely workHow real-world risk builds confidence, judgment, and resilienceWhy a compelling life makes screens less addictiveWhat it looks like to pursue balance without fearThis isn’t a rejection of technology. It’s a refusal to let it replace real life.If you’re wrestling with screens—your own or your kids’—this episode offers a different way forward: less control, more adventure, and a life that pulls you back from the virtual world.CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction: Adventure Is The Antidote01:33 Welcome To Unconditional with Norbie Schickel05:41 We Are Living In  Unprecedented Times09:01 Judgement Is the Most Important Skill Today16:18 No Screens Before Age Two - You Will Thank Me22:33 Screens After The Age of 2 - Less Frequent, But Better30:38 Full Disclosure - The Advantage Of Homeschooling33:24 Dealing With Screens At School 37:09 Building Trust and Judgment in Children37:41 Adventure Is The Antidote To Being Consumed By The Virtual World40:51 On Sheep & Donkeys51:45 The Importance of Unstructured Play54:46 The Thrill of Young Entrepreneurs56:24 What Happened To The Sheep?58:58 Conclusion & Thank YouAI OVERVIEWIn this conversation, Norbie Schickel discusses the challenges and opportunities of parenting in a digital age. He emphasizes the importance of balancing technology use with real-world experiences, the necessity of developing judgment and decision-making skills in children, and the value of open communication about technology. Schickel advocates for embracing adventure and risk in the real world to foster essential life skills, while also preparing for the unique challenges of the teenage years. The conversation highlights the need for parents to model healthy technology habits and engage in meaningful discussions with their children about the impact of screens and social media.LINKSAnthem AthleticsLast Week's Episode

Have smartphones and social media actually made our lives better—or are they quietly destroying our mental health?In this episode of Unconditional with Norbie Schickel, we take a deep dive into the impact of smartphones and social media on mental health, childhood development, and modern life, drawing heavily on the work of social psychologist Jonathan Haidt and his groundbreaking book The Anxious Generation.Since around 2010, rates of anxiety, depression, self-harm, and suicide among teenagers and young adults have surged. This conversation explores why. We examine how the convergence of smartphones and algorithm-driven social media has fundamentally rewired childhood—shifting kids from a play-based childhood to a phone-based childhood—and why this shift has proven especially damaging for pre-teens and teenagers.In this episode, we discuss:How smartphones and social media are reshaping childhood and adolescent brain developmentWhy mental health outcomes have worsened so dramatically since 2010The different ways social media harms girls versus boysThe role of dopamine, social comparison, gaming, pornography, and online predationHow overprotection in the real world and under-protection online created a perfect stormWhy free play, risk-taking, and antifragility matter more than everPractical, hopeful solutions for parents, schools, and individualsThis is not a doom-and-gloom episode. While the realities are uncomfortable, this conversation is ultimately optimistic. The solution isn’t rejecting technology—it’s restoring balance, reclaiming real-world adventure, and consciously choosing a way of life that supports mental health, resilience, and human flourishing.If you’re a parent, educator, or anyone concerned about mental health, technology, fitness, and the future of our children, this episode is essential listening.🎙 Subscribe to Unconditional with Norbie Schickel for in-depth conversations on on reclaiming radical health and fitness, and living your most unconditional life.Chapters00:00 Introduction - Smartphone, Social Media & The Anxious Generation03:03 The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt05:52 The Context & Stakes - Why This Is So Important09:18 Why Cutting Smartphones and Social Media Is Hard15:21 Intro To Jonathan Haidt's Thesis18:37 The Problem Is BOTH Smartphones AND Social Media20:49 Something Significant Changed In 201027:36 The Shift from Play-Based to Phone-Based Childhood31:42 The Impact of Safetyism on Childhood Experiences44:45 Social Media And Predators In the Virtual World46:06 Unique Harms by By Gender48:09 How Smartphones & Social Media Harms Girls54:12 How Smartphones & Social Media Harms Boys01:01:23 The Virtual World and Its Effects on Boys01:02:24 The Case for Optimism01:08:36 Empowering Parents: Real-World AdventuresAI Overview This conversation explores the profound impact of smartphones and social media on youth, particularly focusing on the shift from a play-based childhood to a phone-based one. It discusses gender differences in digital engagement, the consequences of overprotection in parenting, and the alarming decline in youth well-being. The dialogue emphasizes the need for parents to navigate these challenges and highlights the urgent need for awareness regarding the risks associated with digital platforms.#mentalhealth #healthpodcast #fitnesspodcast #theanxiousgenerationLinksThe Anxious GenerationAre We Better Off Episode Apple Podcasts

The food pyramid is back—and according to the headlines, it’s been flipped upside down. But has it really?In this episode of Unconditional, host Norbie Schickel breaks down the newly released U.S. dietary guidelines and the updated food pyramid, separating media hype from what the recommendations actually say. From claims about beef tallow and full-fat dairy to suggestions that Americans should eat dramatically more meat and protein, Norbie walks through the numbers, the context, and the overlooked details that matter most.Drawing from personal experience, nutritional research, and a critical review of the original 1992 food pyramid, this episode explores how decades of dietary advice helped usher in ultra-processed foods, metabolic dysfunction, and chronic illness. Norbie compares the old and new pyramids side by side, examining servings of grains, protein, dairy, fruits, vegetables, and—most importantly—healthy fats.What’s the real shift behind the new food pyramid? Why healthy fats—not protein—may be the biggest change. What the guidelines still fail to address about ultra-processed foods, seed oils, pesticides, and food quality. How countries like Japan and traditional cultures maintain metabolic health without macro obsession. Why “real food” matters more than carb vs. fat debates.This episode goes beyond sound bites to ask the bigger questions: Is this truly a move toward whole foods, or just a visual rebrand? And what would a more honest, useful food framework look like for families, schools, and everyday Americans?If you’re interested in nutrition, health policy, real food, metabolic health, or questioning conventional dietary wisdom, this conversation will challenge how you think about what’s on your plate.🎧 Listen now and join the conversation about food, fitness, and taking ownership of your health.CHAPTERS00:00 The New Food Pyramid 2026 - A Deep Dive02:59 Why The New Food Pyramid 2026 Matters07:04 Critique of the Original Food Pyramid07:36 Introduction to the Food Pyramid Changes08:29 Does The New Food Pyramid Live Up To the Hype?12:15 Old Vs New. What's Changed In The New Food Pyramid?13:26 The New Food Pyramid Is Upside Down19:46 Comparing Old and New Food Pyramids22:19 Grains, Fruits, and Vegetables in the New Guidelines25:11 Dairy and Protein Recommendations25:36 What Everyone Is Missing About The New Food Pyramid29:21 Shocking. The New Food Pyramid And Seed Oils32:10 The Most Shocking Miss Of The New Food Pyramid34:32 It's Not About Macros, It's About Ultra-Processed Foods36:46 What About Japan? The Food Spinning Top39:52 What Would Have Been Better?42:15 The New Food Pyramid: A Step Forward?42:41 Conclusion: Taking Aim At The Real Enemy of Ultra-Processed FoodsAI OVERVIEWIn this conversation, Norbie Schickel discusses the new food pyramid and its implications for nutrition and health. He explores the changes from the original food pyramid, emphasizing the importance of real foods and the dangers of ultra-processed foods. Schickel critiques the new guidelines for not adequately addressing food quality and proposes alternative frameworks for understanding nutrition.#realfood #nutrition #healthpodcast #fitnesspodcast 

Should I quit drinking when I don’t have a problem? In this episode of Unconditional Norbie Schickel shares his honest experience of quitting alcohol after more than 20 years of low-to-moderate drinking, and what changed over two years without it. This is not a conversation about addiction, shame, or moral judgment. It’s about effectiveness, clarity, and intentional living in a culture where alcohol is deeply woven into social life.If you’re considering Dry January, curious about sobriety, or questioning whether alcohol is subtly holding you back — mentally, emotionally, or physically — this episode offers nuance, personal insight, and a practical framework for change. Norbie explores why he chose to quit without being an alcoholic, the science-based ideas that challenged his assumptions, how alcohol impacts stress tolerance and habit formation, and what he gained — and lost — by removing it. No preaching. No purity tests. Just an honest audit of alcohol, culture, and personal growth.SHOW NOTESAre low to moderate levels of alcohol consumption safe?Should I quit drinking even if I don’t have a problem?Dr. Andrew Huberman’s podcast shifted Norbie’s perspectiveAlcohol’s impact on chronic stress, anxiety, and confidenceWhy alcohol can make new habit formation harderThe “strategic replacement” method for breaking habitsSocial life, relationships, and identity without alcoholHealth changes after quitting (sleep, recovery, hormones)Two-year results: upsides, downsides, and trade-offsWill Norbie ever drink again?Chapter: 00:00 Introduction: Quitting Alcohol & Dry January05:45 Stakes & Context: Why The Subject of Alcohol is Difficult07:52 Challenge #1 - Alcohol Serves An Important Social Function08:48 Challenge #2 Alcohol Feels Good & Has Many Benefits09:49 There Is A Sea Change On The Topic Of Alcohol10:31 Why I Quit Drinking When I Didn't Have A Problem12:42 The Catalyst for Change: Dr. Andrew Huberman's Influence18:20 Why Huberman's Alcohol Podcast Was So Effective25:21 The Truth About Alcohol - Explained Clearly 31:45 The Two Reasons I Personally Quit Drinking38:44 How I Stopped Drinking - Ending A 20 Year Habit Cold44:26 Get The People Close Onboard (If Possible)47:42 The Most Powerful Way To Quit Alcohol - Strategic Substitution56:54 Treat Sobriety As An Experiment, Not A Religion 59:05 Going Sober - My Results At 2 Years59:35 The Downside of Cutting Alcohol01:00:53 The Mixed Blessing Of Going Sober01:03:36 The Significant Benefits of Sober Life01:03:43 Life Without Alcohol Became Way More Interesting01:04:34 Quitting Alcohol Improved My Sleep01:05:17 Here's What Quitting Alcohol Did for My Testosterone01:07:39 Raising Your Testosterone Naturally Is Incredibly Beneficial01:09:19 Sobriety Reduced Anxiety & Chronic Stress01:12:21 Final Words & Conclusion - Will I Ever Drink Again?Resources Mentioned:Huberman Lab Podcast On Alcohol Function Health Anthem AthleticsKeywordsDry January, sobriety curiosity, quitting alcohol, mindful drinking, alcohol and anxiety, habit change, mindset, personal growth, men’s health, intentional living, fatherhood, entrepreneurshipHastags#DryJanuary #SobrietyCurious #QuitDrinking #Mindset #PersonalGrowth #IntentionalLiving #Men’sHealth #HabitChange #UnconditionalPodcast

In this episode of Unconditional, host Norbie Schickel breaks down the simplest, most sustainable path to getting lean, strong, and radically healthy—without crash diets, endless cardio, or injectable weight-loss drugs.After exploring the shocking history of polio and the rise of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic in recent episodes, today we shift fully into fitness, metabolism, and the truth about what actually works for long-term fat loss.Norbie shares the real first step to transforming your body (hint: it’s not calorie counting, macros, or spending hours in the gym). You’ll learn why countries like Japan have avoided the obesity crisis, how whole-foods and walking outperform extreme diets, and why consistency—not willpower—is the true “magic pill.”Then, Norbie reveals the two brutally effective workouts that shaped his own physique—workouts that build muscle, shred fat, and skyrocket conditioning with no gym, no equipment, and almost no time required. You’ll learn:🔥 What You’ll LearnWhy “eat less, move more” has failed—and what actuallydrives sustainable weight lossHow whole foods and daily walking mimic the benefits of GLP-1s without side effectsWhy obesity is not a moral issue and how shame destroys long-term progressThe surprising reason the Japanese maintain the world’s best metabolic healthHow to build a lean, aesthetic, athletic physique without PEDs, bodybuilding splits, or long workoutsThe Burpee Ladder Workout—theultimate anywhere-anytime fat-loss toolA wrist-friendly burpee variation used byfighters and grapplersThe science behind Tabata intervals and how to use them to build muscle, endurance, and conditioning in just 4 minutes The principle of progressiveoverload without weightsHow wrestlers, gymnasts, and ancientwarriors built their physiques without modern equipmentWhether you’re just beginning your health journey, returning to fitness, or already lean and looking to take things to the next level, this episode offers a simple, proven framework for building a body you’re proud of—naturally.If you’ve wondered whether it’s possible to get lean, muscular, or even ripped without a gym membership or extreme dieting, the answer is a resounding yes. This episode shows you how.Chapters00:00 Introduction03:54 The Question I Get Asked The Most Is About Getting In Shape04:05 Alternative to GLP-1s, Japan, Whole Foods & Walking09:18 Japan: The Only Country To Get Wealthy Without Getting Fat10:59 Quick Recap For Natural, Permanent Weight Loss12:43 The Importance of Whole Foods and Walking14:07 Beyond Whole Foods & Walking - Starting Body Recomposition15:04 Building Your Dream Physique Is Possible17:16 The Fitness World Is More Than Bodybuilding23:41 Two Effective Workouts for Body Recomposition26:30 Caveat On Performance Enhancing Drugs29:55 Finally, The Two Workouts Revealed30:09 Workout #1 - Modified Burpee Ladder33:55 Consistency Is Your Superpower37:53 Building In Progressive Overload39:52 A Better Burpee? Here's My Favorite Variation48:07 Workout #2 - 4 Minute Tabata Workout

What do you really know about polio? 💡If you believe that the story of polio is fundamentally one of virus 🔬and vaccines prepare to have your mind blown 💥.Most of us grew up with this story: a terrifying disease emerges sometime in the not-too-distant past. Some lives are lost, while others are left crippled or paralyzed for life.Scientists race against time to isolate the virus, develop a vaccine, and finally bring the nightmare to an end.But what if that story is only part of the truth? In this episode of Unconditional with Norbie Schickel, we go in-depth into The Moth in the Iron Lung by Forrest Maready and the untold story of polio – one of metals, moths and microbes, and a century-old epidemic with shocking parallels to COVID19. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Polio: A Complex Discussion04:43 The Story of Polio Is Much More Than Virus and Vaccines07:13 The Moth in the Iron Lung By Forrest Maready07:40 When Outsiders Break The Mold - Hypercar Founders08:14 Forrest Maready & Brett Weinstein - Dark Horse Podcast13:48 The Conventional Story of Polio Is Wrong15:50 Rethinking Polio: Metals, Microbes, and Malevolence24:06 Polio: A Disease Pattern with Multiple Origins29:10 The Connection Between Metals and Polio34:43 The Injection of Metals Into the Food Supply35:02 Polio and Pesticides: Lead Arsenate37:21 Steedman's Teething Powder & The Age Of Metallic Medicine52:52 The Polio Virus, or More Accurately, Viruses59:13 Koch's Postulates & The Search For The Cause Of Polio01:01:15 Koch's Postulates & Debate Over Germ Thoery vs. Terrain Theory01:02:58 The 1916 Polio Outbreak & The Rockefeller Institute01:04:49 The 1916 Polio Outbreak Is Different & More Deadly01:11:20 The 1916 Polio Epidemic: Gain Of Function Research01:22:38 Are Vaccines Resposible For The Decline In Polio01:28:15 Conclusion & Thank YouJoin Norbie — father, fitness enthusiast, and founder of ⁠Anthem Athletics⁠ — as he dives deep into what it takes to reclaim radical health and fitness, build an unstoppable mindset, and create your most unconditional life.

💡 What would your life look like if you finally broke free from your greatest limiting belief? Why do efforts to free ourselves from limiting beliefs almost always fail? In this episode of Unconditional with Norbie Schickel, we explore how to identify and crush the hidden beliefs that hold you back from reaching your full potential — and becoming your best self. ❤️If you’ve ever felt like something inside you is keeping you from living the life you know you’re capable of, this conversation is for you.Norbie shares two simple yet powerful insights that have transformed the way he thinks, lives, and leads — practical tools that can help you break through mental barriers, elevate your mindset, and start living from your highest potential. 🌟🎧 Tune in now to discover what’s possible when you stop believing the thoughts that limit you — and start building the mindset that sets you free.Join Norbie — father, fitness enthusiast, and founder of ⁠⁠⁠⁠Anthem Athletics⁠⁠⁠⁠ — as he dives deep into what it takes to reclaim radical health and fitness, build an unstoppable mindset, and create your most unconditional life.00:00 How To Crush Your Limiting Beliefs - Introduction04:24 Improving Your Mindset is One Of the Highest ROI Investments In Health and Performance05:50 The Placebo Effect - Scientific Evidence of The Power Of Mindset06:58 Mindset Is Muscle. We Should Train It Like One07:46 Today's Focus - Overcoming Limiting Beliefs09:00 Powerful Insight #1 - Today's Limiting Beliefs are Yesterday's Empowering Beliefs.10:02 Mindset In Action - Starting An Apparel Company & Limiting Beliefs19:27 Powerful Insight #2 - Limiting Beliefs Are Part of a Package Deal21:06 What Is Package Dealing? Borrowing A Concept From Ayn Rand25:25 Identity Is A Powerful Driver & A Double Edged Sword30:37 Conclusion & Thank You#UnconditionalPodcast #NorbieSchickel #ReachYourPotential #BecomeYourBestSelf #Mindset #SelfMastery #Breakthrough #CrushLimitingBeliefs #InnerStrength #UnstoppableYou

🥩🌱 Carnivore or vegan — what is the optimal human diet? Is it possible that both sides have been fighting the wrong enemy? Is it time to end the diet wars?In this episode of Unconditional with Norbie Schickel, we dive deep into one of the most divisive debates in health and nutrition: animal based diets vs. plant based diets. Is one truly superior — or are we fighting the wrong battle?Join us as we explore why the “diet wars” may be distracting us from the real enemy: ultra-processed foods. Drawing on insights from people like Chris Kresser, James Wilks, Dr. Paul Saladino, Dr. Weston A. Price and Dr. Catherine Shanahan, we unpack how both plant-based and animal-based approaches can promote health when rooted in real, whole, nutrient-dense foods.You’ll learn what each camp gets right and wrong, the hidden common ground between ancestral and modern nutrition philosophies, and why metabolic health, not ideology, should guide your plate.🍖🌿 Whether you’re carnivore, vegan, or somewhere in between, this episode will challenge your assumptions and inspire a more balanced, unconditional approach to eating and living. Join Norbie — father, fitness enthusiast, and founder of ⁠⁠Anthem Athletics⁠⁠ — as he dives deep into what it takes to reclaim radical health and fitness, build an unstoppable mindset, and create your most unconditional life.Chapters00:00 Introduction: The Plant Based Vs Animal Based Debate02:22 The Personal Drives The Professional05:37 The Personal Drives The Professional - Dr. Weston A Price 07:42 The Personal Drives The Professional - Dr. Paul Saladino08:56 This Debate Is Highly Personal... Which Is Odd09:53 Becoming Plant Based Improved My Health - Weight Loss, Allergies, Nose Breathing15:30 Vegan vs Carnivore. Why This Debate Is Missing The Mark. 16:39 The Game Changers Documentary - Joe Rogan, James Wilks, Chris Kresser21:13 The Debate Dynamics: Wilkes vs. Kresser24:35 Dr. Weston A. Price - His Work, What People Get Wrong, Views On Plant Based27:06 Did Dr. Weston A Price Debunk Vegan Diets? No. No He Did Not. 28:53 Dr. Weston A Price Did Not Debunk Plant Based Diets. Argument vs. Assertion28:56 The Plant-Based Diet Discussion34:02 Here's What Everyone Gets Wrong About Dr. Weston A Price39:13 Dr. Paul Saladino's Public Reversal On Fruit & Carbohydrates43:26 Dr. Paul Saladino Shares His Bloodwork... And What Happens Is Incredible45:54 Vegan, Carnivore, Other... Getting Beyond Picking A Camp47:38 Important Question: Is Meat The Worst Food You Can Eat?48:39 Unsolicited Thoughts For My Plant-Based Friends52:45 Is It Ethical To Eat Meat? The Elephant In the Room. 55:12 Unsolicited Thoughts For My Carnivore Friends01:00:49 Is There A Single, Optimal Diet For Humans?01:01:43 Vegan Vs Carnivore? We're Focused On The Wrong Enemy#CarnivoreDiet #VeganDiet #DietWars #MetabolicHealth #RealFood #NutrientDensity #ProcessedFoods #AncestralHealth #HolisticNutrition #Mindset #Longevity #UnconditionalPodcast #NorbieSchickel

Vegan or carnivore — who’s right? 🥦🥩Are humans meant to eat plants, meat, or both? In this episode of Unconditional with Norbie Schickel, we dive into the ongoing “diet wars,” exploring plant-based and carnivore lifestyles, the ethics of eating meat and the optimal human diet. In today's episode, we discuss Norbie's personal dietary choices, his own health journey, and how his thinking has evolved under after reading the work of people like Dr. Weston A. Price and more. The answer is not what you'd expect. Is it time to finally end the wars and begin a new era of health and vitality?

GLP1s have taken the health and fitness world by storm. While they can be effective for many people, they are not right for everyone, and they don't work for everyone. Is there another way? Join us this week for another episode of Unconditional with Norbie Schickel, as we continue our conversation on solving the obesity epidemic, metabolic disfunction and restoring radical health, all without the use of pharmaceutical drugs. In this in-depth discussion we explore key questions related to this topic including: 1. Do GLP-1 agonists work for everyone? 2. Why has diet and exercise failed for weight loss?3. What is the actual root cause of the obesity epidemic? 4. Is there a natural alternative to Ozempic? 5. How has Japan prevented a rise in obesity? 6. What role do whole foods play in restoring satiety and weight loss? 7. Is the a simple and effective way to lose weight naturally and keep it off?Join Norbie — father, fitness enthusiast, and founder of ⁠⁠Anthem Athletics⁠⁠ — as he dives deep into what it takes to reclaim radical health and fitness, build an unstoppable mindset, and create your most unconditional life.#ozempic #glp1 #health #healthpodcast #fitness #fitnesspodcast #weightloss #fatloss #wholefood #realfood #ultraprocessedfood

Have GLP-1 agonists killed diet and exercise? Is there a way to lose weight, burn fat and recompose your body without the use of drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy and Munjaro? Join us this week for another episode of Unconditional with Norbie Schickel, were we continue our conversation on solving solving the obesity epidemic, metabolic disfunction and restoring radical health, all without the use of pharmaceutical drugs. Join Norbie — father, fitness enthusiast, and founder of ⁠Anthem Athletics⁠ — as he dives deep into what it takes to reclaim radical health and fitness, build an unstoppable mindset, and create your most unconditional life.#ozempic #glp1 #health #healthpodcast #fitness #fitnesspodcast 

In this episode, we dive into one of the most controversial topics within the health and fitness world today: Ozempic, GLP-1 Agonists and injectable weight loss drugs. For this conversation, we will reference the excellent book, Magic Pill: The Extraordinary Benefits And Disturbing Risks of the New Weight Loss Drugs, by journalist Johann Hari. With over 40% of the adult American population currently obese, and 47% of Americans saying they would pay for weight loss drugs, this is an issue we should all care to understand. In this episode, we will work to understand key questions including regarding GLP-1 agonists, including:1. How do GLP-1 agonists like Ozempic work? 2. Are drugs like Ozempic effective for weight loss?3. Do I have to stay on Ozempic to maintain my weight loss?4. What are the risks of GLP-1 agonists? Are drugs like Ozempic safe?5. Should I take a GLP-1, like Ozempic, for weight loss? Join Norbie — father, fitness enthusiast, and founder of Anthem Athletics — as he dives deep into what it takes to reclaim radical health and fitness, build an unstoppable mindset, and create your most unconditional life.#ozempic #glp1 #health #healthpodcast #fitness #fitnesspodcast 

Preview of this week's episode of Unconditional with Norbie Schickel. Full episode will be released Wednesday, October 15, 2025. Join us this week as we dive into one of the most important and controversial topics within the health and fitness world today: Ozempic, GLP-1 Agonists and injectable weight loss drugs. For this conversation, we will reference the excellent book, Magic Pill: The Extraordinary Benefits And Disturbing Risks of the New Weight Loss Drugs, by journalist Johann Hari. With over 40% of the adult American population currently obese, and 47% of Americans saying they would pay for weight loss drugs, this is an issue we should all care to understand. In this episode, we will work to understand key questions including regarding GLP-1 agonists, including:1. How do GLP-1 agonists like Ozempic work? 2. Are drugs like Ozempic effective for weight loss?3. Do I have to stay on Ozempic to maintain my weight loss?4. What are the risks of GLP-1 agonists? Are drugs like Ozempic safe?5. Should I take a GLP-1, like Ozempic, for weight loss? Join Norbie — father, fitness enthusiast, and founder of Anthem Athletics — as he dives deep into what it takes to reclaim radical health and fitness, build an unstoppable mindset, and create your most unconditional life.#ozempic #glp1 #health #healthpodcast #fitness #fitnesspodcast 

Are humans built for scarcity, but cursed by abundance. Some experts seem to think so. But are they rightConventional wisdom says that humans evolved in a world of food scarcity and hard physical labor — and that today’s abundance of food and convenience makes obesity, type 2 diabetes, and chronic disease inevitable. Things have gotten so good, we just can’t handle it. I’m not so sure. In this episode of Unconditional, host Norbie Schickel unpacks the paradox of modern abundance: despite unprecedented food security, technology, and entertainment, we’re experiencing record levels of obesity, anxiety, and depression. Something doesn’t add up.Is scarcity our natural state? Or we cursed by our own abundance? Join Norbie — father, fitness enthusiast, and founder of Anthem Athletics — as he dives deep into what it takes to reclaim radical health and fitness, build an unstoppable mindset, and create your most unconditional life.#health #healthpodcast #fitness #fitnesspodcast #realfood #maha #traditionaldiets #ancestral #nutrition 

Preview of what's new this week on Unconditional with Norbie Schickel. Tune in Wednesday AM for the full episode. Episode DescriptionAre humans built for scarcity, but cursed by abundance? Some experts seem to think so. But are they right?Conventional wisdom says that humans evolved in a world of food scarcity and hard physical labor — and that today’s abundance of food and convenience makes obesity, type 2 diabetes, and chronic disease inevitable. Things have gotten so good, we just can’t handle it. I’m not so sure. In this episode of Unconditional, host Norbie Schickel unpacks the paradox of modern abundance: despite unprecedented food security, technology, and entertainment, we’re experiencing record levels of obesity, anxiety, and depression. Something is off. Is scarcity our natural state? Or we cursed by our ownabundance? Join Norbie — father, fitness enthusiast, and founder of Anthem Athletics — as he dives deep into what it takes to reclaim radical health and fitness, build an unstoppable mindset, and create your most unconditional life.#radicalhealth #healthpodcast #fitnesspodcast #realfood #obesityepidemic #traditionaldiets #healthylifestyle