FutureLab Podcast

Metabolic Health Mastery with Donna Aston

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 11:00:00 +1100

In this episode of the Future Lab Podcast, hosts Danny Urbinder, Trevor Hendy, and Dr Denise Furness take a deep dive with Donna Aston, a metabolic health and weight management expert, who shares her inspiring journey from being an overweight teenager to transforming her body through strength training and becoming a fitness competitor. Donna discusses her nutritional studies and the development of her science-based program, Aston Rx, which focuses on enhancing metabolic health and promoting long-term well-being. Key topics include the importance of strength training, managing insulin levels, and optimising diet through time-restricted eating and nutrient-dense foods. Aston also emphasises the significance of stress reduction, sleep hygiene, and individualised dietary interventions for achieving and maintaining health. The episode highlights practical insights and real-world applications for enhancing metabolic health and longevity.

Thank you for tuning in to today's episode of FutureLab. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review us on your favourite podcast platform. For more tips and insights on living a longer, healthier life, follow us on social media and visit our website at https://melrosefuturelab.com/blogs/futurelab-podcast. Stay healthy and see you next time!

Living the Blue Zone Way: Dr Damian Kristof on Longevity and Lifestyle

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +1000

In this engaging podcast episode, hosts Danny Urbinder, Dr. Denise Furness, and Trevor Hendy sit down with Dr. Damian Kristoff, a naturopath, chiropractor, and nutrition expert. The discussion delves into Dr. Kristoff's personal journey from studying commerce to becoming a prominent figure in the health and wellness sphere. The conversation highlights the concept of Blue Zones, areas where people live significantly longer lives, and the factors contributing to this longevity, including purpose, engagement, movement, nutrition, and community.

Dr. Kristoff shares insights from his experiences in Blue Zones like Ikaria in Greece and Sardinia in Italy, emphasising the importance of integrating simple, natural lifestyle practices to avoid chronic diseases and enhance health span.

The episode also touches on Dr. Kristoff’s professional practice, his future aspirations, and the role of supplementation in modern health regimes.

Breaking Free: Pete Evans on Personal Truth and Health

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 11:00:00 +1000

This episode features an in-depth conversation with Pete Evans, an influential figure in health and wellness. Hosts Trevor Hendy, Danny Urbinder, and Dr. Denise Furness discuss Pete's journey, his perspectives on health, nutrition, and the impact of societal norms. Pete shares insights into his personal experiences with psychedelics, the importance of self-awareness, and the influence of media on public perception. The discussion delves into Pete's transition from being a celebrated chef and TV personality to an advocate for holistic health, emphasising the importance of self-responsibility and unconditional love. Pete's thoughts on the geopolitical landscape, his recent interactions with high-profile figures like Donald Trump and RFK Jr., and his current focus on simple joys like surfing and cooking encapsulate his holistic approach to life and wellness.

Ocean Warrior: Layne Beachley's Story of Strength and Connection

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 09:00:00 +1000

In this episode, our hosts are joined by surfing legend Layne Beachley as she shares insights from her life and career, highlighting her journey through personal struggles, professional triumphs, and the impact of menopause on her health.

Beachley reflects on her childhood, the early loss of her mother, learning of her adoption, and how these events fuelled her determination to become a world champion surfer.

She discusses her role in transforming women's surfing, making it more recognised and appreciated, and her emphasis on the uniqueness of women’s contributions to the sport.

Beachley also touches on her relationship with her husband Kirk, the importance of emotional support, and her current health regimen. The conversation underscores themes of resilience, authenticity, and the power of embracing one's femininity. Additionally, Beachley promotes her work with the Awake Academy, aimed at helping people live happier, more purposeful lives.

Switch On Your Calm: Exploring L-Theanine for Stress, Sleep, and Performance

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 08:00:00 +1000

In this episode of FutureLab, hosts Danny Urbinder, Trevor Hendy, and Dr. Denise Furness dive into the fascinating intersection of science and soul to explore human potential. The spotlight is on L-theanine, a powerful amino acid from green tea shown to ease stress, sharpen focus, and enhance sleep quality. Backed by a recent double-blind, placebo-controlled study using the patented AlphaWave® form, the team unpacks how L-theanine works in the brain, promoting alpha brain waves and a calm, alert state. They also explore its synergistic effects with lemon balm, and why combining smart supplementation with breathwork, movement, and nutrition creates the strongest foundation for thriving health and longevity. Packed with practical tips and cutting-edge insights, this is your blueprint for a more balanced, resilient, and vibrant you.

From Texas to AFL Glory: Mason Cox's Incredible Journey

Wed, 07 May 2025 14:00:00 +1000

In this episode of Future Lab, hosts Trevor Hendy, Dr Denise Furness, and Danny Urbinder welcome Australian Football League (AFL) player Mason Cox for an in-depth discussion about his extraordinary journey. Mason, originally from Dallas, Texas, shares his unique story of transitioning from playing soccer and basketball to becoming a prominent AFL player for the Collingwood Football Club. He talks about the challenges he faced, including significant injuries like detached retinas and a lacerated spleen, and the incredible support he received from the club, friends, and family. Mason also elaborates on the substantial risk he took to move to Australia, giving up a chemical engineering degree and a secure job, driven by his brother's encouragement to seize a unique and unrepeatable athletic opportunity. Highlights of his career, such as debuting on Anzac Day and starring in the 2018 preliminary final against Richmond, are discussed. Mason reflects on the importance of resilience, support networks, and the journey's impact on his personal growth. The conversation ends with Mason expressing gratitude for the connections and experiences he's gained through AFL and his vision for the future.

Eat Your Way to Balanced Hormones: Navigating Perimenopause and Menopause with Zoe Bingley-Pullin

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 12:00:00 +1100

Zoe Bingley-Pullin joins the hosts of FutureLab, Danny Urbinder, Dr Denise Furness, and Trevor Hendy, to discuss hormone health, with a special focus on perimenopause and menopause. This engaging and informative conversation covers the important role of pathology tests in understanding your body throughout this transition. Zoe also emphasises the critical role of diet, including phytoestrogens and protein intake, lifestyle changes, and practical cooking tips to improve overall well-being. Zoe shares personal experiences and insights from her new book 'Eat Your Way to Healthy Hormones,' emphasising simplicity in preparing nutritious meals. The discussion also explores exercise regimens, such as weight-bearing activities, and supplements like magnesium and adaptogenic herbs for adrenal and hormone support. Zoe's passion for food and holistic health runs through the discussion, aiming to inspire listeners to make simple but impactful health choices.

Surfing Beyond the Waves: Kelly Slater on Life, Longevity, and Living Fully

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 09:00:00 +1100

In this extraordinary episode of FutureLab, hosts Trevor Hendy, Danny Urbinder, and Dr. Denise Furness are joined by surfing icon Kelly Slater, 11-time world champion, to explore the intersection of longevity, peak performance, and visionary thinking.

Kelly reflects on how his relentless drive and ability to see where surfing could evolve—often five to ten years ahead of his peers—redefined the sport. With insights into his legendary flow state, he shares how being present and fully connected to the ocean allowed him to achieve momentous victories in his career. From preparation to mindset, Kelly reveals the secrets behind his competitive edge and how he’s maintained greatness over decades.

The conversation takes a deep dive into Kelly’s health journey, highlighting his cutting-edge approach to diet, exercise, and supplementation, as well as an analysis of his biological age and how he continues to slow the pace of ageing. The discussion also ventures into his vision for the future of surfing, the challenges of parenthood, and the life lessons that shaped his philosophy on living with purpose and longevity.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration on achieving greatness, sustaining peak performance, and staying ahead of the curve in sport, health, and life.

Transformation of an Ironman: Trevor Hendy's Journey to Life Mastery

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 11:00:00 +1100

In this candid discussion, Trevor opens up about his journey from a young athlete driven by external validation and early heartbreak to a celebrated champion who ultimately found a deeper purpose. He reflects on how his initial competitive fire, born from trauma and a desire for approval, led him to monumental success. Yet, as his career progressed, Trevor began experiencing profound moments of connection with the ocean—moments that revealed a spiritual dimension to his life and work.

This pivotal realisation shifted his focus from pursuing external accolades to embracing inner fulfilment and holistic well-being. Throughout the episode, Trevor shares insights on the power of vulnerability, the importance of intuition, and the role of personal transformation. Today, he mentors others with a focus on true inspiration, moving beyond external power, greed, and control to promote genuine well-being.

Beyond the Comfort Zone: Paul Taylor's Road to Resilience

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 13:00:00 +1100

In this episode of FutureLab, we sit down with neuroscientist and exercise physiologist Paul Taylor to explore the critical role of resilience in modern life and the profound effects of today's lifestyles on well-being. Paul takes us on his journey from the British military to becoming a health and fitness expert, shedding light on how exercise enhances both cognitive and physical health.

We dive into key areas like balancing stress and recovery, the impact of unhealthy habits such as poor diet and excessive screen time on mental health, and the rising levels of anxiety among teenagers. Paul also explains the role of dopamine in food addiction, the importance of resilience developed through controlled stress, and how gratitude can be a transformative practice.

This conversation offers both practical strategies and deeper philosophical insights, underscoring the importance of exercise, nutrition, and sleep in achieving a balanced, fulfilling life.

From Preconception to a Lifetime of Wellness with Dr Elisa Song

Fri, 20 Sep 2024 10:00:00 +1000

In this insightful discussion, hosts Danny Urbinder and Dr. Denise Furness are joined by Dr. Elisa Song, an integrative paediatrician, to explore how preconception and prenatal environments significantly impact healthspan and longevity. Dr. Song details the crucial roles of maternal and paternal health, diet, stress management, and microbiome balance in shaping the future health of children. Emphasising the concept of epigenetics, Dr. Song sheds light on how lifestyle choices can alter genetic expression and potentially improve long-term health outcomes. The conversation also addresses practical strategies like meditation for managing stress and enhancing health. Additionally, the discussion introduces Dr. Song's book 'Healthy Kids, Happy Kids,' which provides further insights into optimising children's health from conception onwards.

Hormones, Stress, and Longevity with Dr. Carrie Jones

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 13:00:00 +1000

In this episode of FutureLab, we explore the intricate relationship between stress, hormonal health, and overall well-being with expert Dr Carrie Jones. The discussion delves into stress hormones, identifying the distinctions between chronic and acute stress, and their physiological impacts. Carrie shares her personal journey, the diagnostic tools she employs, and effective stress management techniques through emotional awareness and creating a secure environment. Practical advice on recognising stress triggers, the importance of community, and the role of joy and hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline are covered. Additionally, the focus on mental and emotional approaches to stress management is highlighted over reliance on supplements, though key supplements like magnesium and adaptogenic herbs are discussed for their biological benefits. The conversation emphasises long-term health practices and the essential education on health basics to improve quality of life.

Leading with Purpose: Craig McRae’s Life-Inspired Coaching Philosophy

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 11:00:00 +1000

In this episode the FutureLab crew interview Craig McRae, the head coach of the Collingwood Football Club. McRae shares his journey and insights, highlighting the integration of science and emotional intelligence to enhance team performance and culture. He focuses on creating a winners-only mentality, respect, and connection within the team, while honouring the club's history and working-class roots. McRae reflects on his personal life and upbringing, and how these experiences shape his coaching philosophy centred on accountability, vulnerability, and support. The discussion also touches on the impact of social media on players, the importance of coping mechanisms, and McRae’s dedication to leaving players as better individuals. Personal anecdotes about his family and the significance of balance and wellbeing in professional sports are also featured, concluding with reflections on personal growth and appreciation.

Muscle Health and Longevity with Shawn Baier

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 15:00:00 +1000

In this episode of FutureLab, we explore the crucial role of muscle mass in healthspan and longevity with insights from Shawn Baier, a distinguished sports nutrition scientist and former competitive powerlifter. With extensive research experience in HMB (Beta-Hydroxy-Beta-Methylbutyrate), a compound known for its muscle-preserving properties, Shawn delves into its profound impact on muscle health.

Shawn underscores the vital role of muscle mass in maintaining metabolic and cardiovascular health and preventing various diseases. He addresses the challenges of muscle loss, particularly in ageing populations, and highlights the importance of muscle retention for overall well-being.

Discover how HMB, a metabolite of the amino acid leucine, supports muscle retention and function. Shawn shares compelling research findings on HMB's benefits in enhancing muscle mass, strength, and key fitness indicators across diverse groups, including athletes, older adults, and those recovering from injuries.

The conversation emphasises the importance of physical activity, adequate protein intake, and HMB supplementation in maintaining muscle health and promoting longevity. Shawn also discusses the safety and efficacy of HMB, ongoing research into its benefits for muscle-wasting conditions like sarcopenia, and shares personal experiences with HMB supplementation.

Tune in to learn how maintaining muscle mass can significantly impact your healthspan and longevity. Discover practical tips on physical activity, nutrition, and lifestyle choices to support muscle health and enhance your overall well-being.

Rethinking Our Relationship With Food: Diet, Stress, and the Science of Ageing

Thu, 27 Jun 2024 14:00:00 +1000

In this episode of Future Lab, hosts Danny Urbinder, Trevor Hendy, and Denise Furness engage in an enlightening conversation with Dr. Joanna McMillan covering the complexities of diet, the impact of stress on digestion, and the significance of a balanced microbiome. They highlight modern dietary challenges, including orthorexia, and applaud the benefits of a plant-rich omnivorous diet and quality fats. Personalisation in nutrition, the importance of community and pleasure in eating, and misconceptions around organic foods are also discussed. The conversation transitions to cutting-edge ageing research, lifestyle practices like sleep, exercise, and the promising role of supplements. The episode concludes by reflecting on how extending healthy years can benefit individuals and society.

Creating Your Best Life: Healthspan and Human Potential

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 14:00:00 +1000

In the inaugural episode of the 'FutureLab' podcast, hosts Danny Urbinder, Dr. Denise Furness, and Trevor Hendy dive into the realms of healthspan, human potential, and personal legacy. Trevor discusses his shift from being a professional athlete to an advocate for holistic health, recounting his past physical and emotional challenges. Dr. Denise Furness shares her evolution from geneticist to health practitioner, highlighting the roles of genetics, epigenetics, and environment in overall wellness. Danny reflects on his early feelings of disconnectedness, which led him to naturopathy and a holistic life approach. The episode also delves into personal stories of family legacies, ageing, and the importance of community engagement. The hosts urge listeners to consider emotional health, nutrition, and genetics as key components of enhancing healthspan and achieving a vibrant, meaningful life.