The Cold Truth: Ice Baths, Brown Fat, and Professor Seager

Can plunging into freezing water actually boost your workouts, improve mental health, and improve libido? Professor Thomas Seager, co-founder of Morozko Forge (they built Joe Rogan's home ice bath), thinks so—and he's got the data to back it up.

In this episode of The Nick Standlea Show, we dive into the emerging science behind cold exposure and its surprising effects on metabolism, mood, and stress resilience. Whether you’re a seasoned cold-plunger or cold-curious, this conversation will leave you thinking differently about discomfort, healing, and health.

⚠️ Disclaimer:
This episode explores the science and personal experiences behind cold plunging as a tool for mental clarity, stress relief, and metabolic health. While many of the claims discussed are supported by emerging research, others remain anecdotal or under-studied. Cold exposure may offer real benefits, but it is not a substitute for medical treatment. Individuals with chronic health conditions—especially hypertension, thyroid disorders, or hormone imbalances—should consult a healthcare professional before starting any extreme cold therapy.

The views expressed are those of the guest and do not constitute medical advice.

What We Covered:
✅ How cold plunges activate brown fat and supports metabolism
✅ The "dive reflex" and parasympathetic nervous system response
✅ Why cold plunges might improve focus, resilience, and libido
✅ Whether plunging before or after workouts is a good idea
✅ The role of cold in regulating stress and boosting mood
⚠️ Claims about diabetes, thyroid function, or testosterone remain unproven in clinical settings and need more controlled studies

Takeaway:
Cold plunges are a powerful form of hormetic stress—challenging in the short term, but potentially beneficial in the long term. Just like lifting weights, the key is proper use, gradual adaptation, and listening to your body.

💡 "Start cold enough to gasp, stay long enough to shiver, and always prioritize safety."
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Learn More About Morozko Forge Ice Baths:
https://www.morozkoforge.com/

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Ask questions,
Don't accept the status quo,
And be curious.

Timestamps:
00:00 - Why cold plunges might improve mood, focus, and libido
00:39 - ⚠ Disclaimer: Not medical advice
01:09 - Post-plunge euphoria and morning resistance
03:00 - Shivering as stress release, not cold response
04:44 - Cold plunging as a meditation hack
06:02 - Mini-study: Cold plunges vs. traditional meditation
07:58 - The dive reflex and vagal tone
09:46 - Cold plunges and metabolic health
10:50 - What is brown fat and why it matters
12:57 - How cold activates and recruits brown fat
14:04 - Brown fat and brain function
16:00 - Cold plunges and type 2 diabetes
17:00 - Hormesis: How stress makes you stronger
18:41 - Why comfort is killing us
20:32 - Joe Rogan’s cold plunge and “the suck”
22:12 - Cold training, optimal temps, and Scottish cab drivers
26:00 - How to know if you’re doing it right (gasp and shiver rule)
28:00 - Mitochondria, circulation, and heart health
31:02 - How to adapt if you share a plunge with family
32:53 - Austin Proper Hotel story and temperature tolerance
35:44 - When 45°F feels boring
36:03 - Should you plunge before or after workouts?
38:44 - Seager’s PSA scare and testosterone surprise
42:00 - Joe Rogan reads Seager’s article on-air
43:27 - Mitochondria and testosterone production
44:54 - Low T, mental health, and natural restoration
46:12 - Free vs. total testosterone: What matters most?
48:42 - The rise of TRT clinics and cautious questions
52:26 - Cold plunges and women’s testosterone + libido
56:00 - Czech army study on sexual satisfaction
59:04 - Sauna vs. cold: Why thermal contrast matters
1:01:08 - Dry sauna vs. hot tub: Key differences
1:03:02 - Why cold + heat cycles are a vascular workout
1:04:58 - Infrared saunas: Pros and limits

Видео The Cold Truth: Ice Baths, Brown Fat, and Professor Seager канала The Nick Standlea Show