Know Body Podcast

Episode 52 is a wide-ranging year-in-review where your host celebrates hitting the one-episode-per-week goal, shares production hiccups, and reflects on the biggest takeaways from 52 episodes. Expect honest behind-the-scenes moments (camera focus and audio snafus), subscriber metrics, and a candid update about taking a month off to rethink the podcast schedule and creative direction. This episode...

In this episode, the host dives into chapters 9 and 10 of Matthew Walker, PhD’s Why We Sleep to unpack what happens in REM sleep, how dreaming differs from non‑REM mental activity, and why dreams may be more than mere byproducts. The episode traces the technological shift from scalp electrodes to MRI brain imaging and explains the surprising, region‑specific activity that characterizes REM: height...

In Episode 51, I walk you through the biology and practical management of stress. Using a ChatGPT-generated outline as a guide, I cover the science behind the sympathetic (fight-or-flight) and parasympathetic (rest-and-digest) systems, why stress matters, and how chronic stress affects inflammation, recovery, and overall health. I mix in research-backed explanations with personal anecdotes — from...

Episode 49: Host Dennis Fenrich (with AI-assisted scripting) demystifies hormones — the silent chemical messengers that control your energy, mood, cravings and body composition. With a mix of listener-friendly explanations, technical notes and personal anecdotes (plus the occasional Liquid Death sip), Dennis walks through what hormones are, how they communicate, and why they matter. The episode in...

Episode 48 dives into Matthew Walker's bestseller Why We Sleep with host Dennis Fenrich (solo episode). This installment covers Chapters 1–2 and mixes science, personal anecdotes, and practical takeaways. Expect a conversational, sometimes humorous walkthrough as the host teases later chapters on dreaming and treatments. The episode reviews what sleep does for body and brain — learning, memory, em...

In this candid episode Dennis sits down with Rey (“Father Rey”) for an in-depth conversation about his life, coaching journey, and what it really takes to be a professional fitness coach. Rey shares his personal background—born in Monterrey, raised in Detroit—his early gym days, physically demanding work in environmental drilling, and the moment CrossFit pulled him into a career he didn’t expect....

In Episode 46 the host experiments with AI: he asked ChatGPT to generate the episode outline and final thoughts in his voice, then records live from those notes. This AI special kicks off a mini-series on sleep and previews a longer look at the book Why We Sleep, while combining science, practical tips, and personal stories. The episode breaks down why sleep matters for "body intelligence," explai...

Episode 45 — a solo episode that dives deep into the strange but powerful phenomenon of "creative illness." The host opens with quick updates (subscriber counts, local sports and weather), a shout-out to sponsors (Liquid Death) and a new Parisi Speed School program at the gym, then settles into the main theme: how certain intense mental crises have historically preceded major creative and scientif...

Welcome to Episode 44 of our podcast where we delve into the fascinating world of the fascial system in "The Fascial System Part Three." Join us as we explore the intricate world of fascia, a connective tissue that plays a crucial role in movement and body function. This episode reveals the science behind fascia-related features such as the plantar fascia, IT band, and thoracolumbar fascia, illust...

In this introspective episode of the podcast, we take a deep dive into the intricate connections between mind and body, exploring how emotions serve as a primary force in driving our behaviors. Reflecting on insights from influential books like "The History and Origins of the Unconscious" and "The History of Psychoanalysis," the host guides us through a journey into the evoluti...

Welcome to Episode 42, where we delve deep into the fascinating world of the fascial system and its revolutionary impact on how we perceive and train our bodies. This episode is all about challenging conventional wisdom and understanding the intricate relationship between muscles, connective tissues, and overall body mechanics. Our host explores the concept of the fascial system, a groundbreaking...

In this engaging episode, we delve into the inspiring life story of Omar, who takes us through his incredible journey from a liver transplant to CrossFit. Omar shares candid insights about his life, the challenges he faced with his health, and the transformative experience of undergoing a kidney transplant. We learn about the critical moment when a routine physical revealed alarming health issues,...

In Episode 40, we dive headfirst into the groundbreaking world of the fascial system, a topic that's set to revolutionize the fitness landscape. The episode kicks off with some familiar updates, like sports highlights and subscriber milestones, before delving into the meat of the content. This episode is an eye-opener as it introduces listeners to the fascia—a complex, interconnected tissue ne...

In episode 39, we're joined by Mahi Alston for a deep dive into a transformative personal journey shaped by an unexpected diagnosis: celiac disease. The episode opens with light-hearted banter and quickly evolves into Mahi's candid narrative of experiencing unexplained health challenges that impacted her daily life and athletic performance. As Mahi navigates the surprising intricacies of celiac di...

Welcome to Episode 38 of our podcast, where we delve into the second part of our series on Nutritional Progression . Despite the heat being overwhelming with a faulty air conditioning unit, this episode is sure to be intriguing as we continue from where we left off in Episode 37. Our host navigates through the foundational concepts of enhancing nutritional habits, discussing nutritional progressio...

Welcome to Episode 37 of our podcast, titled "Nutritional Progression." In this episode, we embark on a reflective journey from the relaxing vibes of vacation to diving deep into understanding nutritional skills and strategies for better health. After a much-needed break, our host returns refreshed and ready to share insightful concepts about improving your nutrition. This episode explor...

Join us in Episode 36 as we delve into the fascinating world of metabolism, exploring how our bodies manage energy and adapt to lifestyle factors. Host Dennis provides insights into the intricate details of metabolic adaptation, signal from exercise, and the role of nutrition in body optimization. This episode offers a comprehensive understanding of metabolism's role in mood, energy, inflammation,...

Join us on Episode 35 as we dive into a candid conversation about nutrition and fitness with Ryan, who shares his journey of overcoming challenges and finding a structured plan that works for him. Despite a recording hiccup and a few humorous moments, we delve into valuable insights on the importance of having a solid nutrition plan, even amidst chaos. This episode covers various topics, including...

Welcome to Episode 34 of our podcast, proudly sponsored by North Industry and featuring a special shoutout to Liquid Death for their refreshing beverages.  In this episode, we delve into the Why-Doc, drawing insights from the "Basics of Food Digestion and Metabolism" segment. We demystify complex nutritional concepts, exploring how food transforms from large entities into vital nutrients...

In this lively and thought-provoking episode 33, join us as we dive into a conversation about fitness, mindset, and the evolution of understanding how to maintain health as one grows older. We kick off the episode with a special shout-out to the company we sponsor, Liquid Death, setting the tone for a casual yet insightful discussion. This week, we're focusing on the 'Why Document,' which was crea...

In this exciting episode, we dive into the world of supplements through a personal lens. Join us as our host shares his long-standing relationship with various supplements, revealing his regimen and offering insights into the ones he's taking, those he's retired, and the impacts they've had on his health and fitness journey. The humorous and candid discussion is peppered with personal anecdotes an...

Join us for Episode 31, where we delve into the complex world of "Right Brain Psychotherapy," the influential book by Allan Shore. This episode stands out, not just because it's recorded on an unconventional Thursday, but also because it dives deep into the intricacies of psychotherapy, focusing on the often-overlooked right hemisphere of the brain. We explore key themes from Allan S...

In this insightful episode, our host embarks on a reflective journey inspired by turning 50, sharing the most significant life lessons learned over half a century. This discussion is not just a narrative of personal experiences, but a deep dive into the core principles that have shaped a meaningful life. The episode kicks off with a candid talk about staying hydrated, specifically mentioning a bra...

In this engaging episode, our host welcomes Jeremy Philo, a dynamic guest with a rich background in music and a current focus on fitness and nutrition. Jeremy shares his journey from a young musician dabbling in drums and guitar to becoming passionate about fitness. The conversation delves into Jeremy's experience with ADHD as a child, impacting his education and personal development, and how he's...

Welcome to Episode 28, where we dive into the world of protein powders—are they as basic as they seem? Discover the ins and outs of protein supplementation, aiming to dispel the common fears and misconceptions surrounding its use. In this episode, recorded on 4/8/25, we get to the root of what to look for in a protein powder and why the fear around them might be unwarranted. Join us as we explore...