The John & Calvin Podcast

In this episode of The Keto Files, we break down the new KETO-CTA preprint on keto, LDL-C, ApoB, and coronary plaque progression. The short version: the statistical analysis is misleading. The paper uses a misdefined central “LDL-C exposure” variable, presents false IQR bands that downplay plaque progression, uses an incoherent and ambiguously reported TOST equivalence procedure, presents one-side...

Does reducing saturated fat actually prevent heart attacks? For decades, saturated fat from foods like butter, red meat, cheese, coconut oil, and full-fat dairy has been treated as something to reduce. But the new USDA/HHS dietary guidelines and the inverted food pyramid have made the message a lot less clear. In part two of this series, we look into three of the major randomized controlled trials...

Does cutting saturated fat actually prevent heart attacks? For decades, saturated fat from foods like butter, red meat, cheese, coconut oil, and full-fat dairy has been treated as something to reduce. But the new USDA/HHS dietary guidelines and the inverted food pyramid have made the message a lot less clear. In this episode, Calvin and John look closely at two 2025 meta analyses of randomized con...

In this episode, we look at how Americans die at different ages using U.S. mortality data from the CDC. John walks through an interactive mortality data tool he built with multiple interactive charts showing broad causes of death by overall rank, age at death, and over time, along with detailed subcauses. The charts have filters for sex, age range, time period, and metric. We discuss the patterns...

A recent government announcement claimed Tylenol use during pregnancy causes autism, sparking widespread concern. We dissect the controversial study behind this claim, uncovering major flaws and conflicts of interest, and reveal what higher-quality evidence actually says about the risk.

Critical analysis of the popular anti-aging supplement fatty15, dissecting its "science-backed" claims and deceptive marketing tactics. Is fatty15 a “new essential fatty acid” that’s “3× better than omega-3”?Is fatty15 GRAS "certified'?Does fatty15 have any health benefits in humans? We review the evidence, including all the human randomized controlled trials on fatty15.Slides:...

In this episode, we revisit the controversial Keto-CTA study about cholesterol, and arterial plaque progression. After the authors released some of their raw data, our analysis reveals the study's flaws are far worse than first thought. John breaks down the egregious errors, from published charts that incorrectly cut plaque progression in half, to statistical models that violate their own assu...

In this episode, we dive into five statistical concepts everyone should know. We cover regression to the mean, how to evaluate model performance, what medical diagnostic tests really tell you, the Hawthorne effect, and what causation actually means in research.

In part 2 of How to Read Scientific Studies Series, we focus on interpreting the data and conclusions. We break down how results are reported, what statistical significance actually means, and how to spot confounding factors. We also highlight the common tricks and manipulations that influencers use to misrepresent research findings and media headlines.

Separate science from the hype with our guide for vetting scientific studies. Master the critical thinking tools to make true evidence‑based decisions.

Is kombucha truly good for you? We examine the evidence from human clinical trials to understand its effects on the body. Presentation Available: https://www.jsdatascience.com/podcast_kombucha/

We break down the recently controversial paper “Plaque Begets Plaque, ApoB Does Not” with a critical eye on its statistical flaws.

The most important statistical concepts that everyone should understand. Whether you're into data or just curious about how the world works. From mean vs. median to correlation vs. causation, we discuss it all in simple and applicable terms.

The books that shaped our thinking, sparked creativity, and left a lasting impact.

Ranking various factors that contribute to a long and healthy life span.

Calvin asks John how he evaluates new supplements as a data scientist. John gives a general overview, then comes up with two examples to compare: Astaxanthin and Fatty15.

We analyze Dr. Chaffee's carnivore diet claims with data.

If you could only do three exercises forever, which ones should you pick? We discuss the ultimate trio for lifelong fitness. Choose carefully!

Can you rehearse too much? Rehearsal techniques, over-preparing, and finding the right balance.

John shares his experience of being caught in the wave of recent terminations, how it all went down, and possible implications.

Are there any supplements we’re 100% sure actually work? If we could only take three for the rest of our lives, which ones would make the cut? We break down the science, personal experiences, and myths surrounding supplements.