Ask Dr Vincent

Work in life balance, is it a thing?

Dr Vincent — Fri, 04 Sep 2026 22:30:20 GMT

In this episode, Andrew and I tackle a question that divided the people I asked almost perfectly down the middle: does work–life balance actually exist? As a scientist, founder, husband and father, I have rarely experienced life as two neatly separated halves. When you love what you do, work can feel deeply fulfilling, but that does not mean it is easy. There are long hours, constant decisions, unexpected fires and unavoidable trade-offs. I have come to believe that balance is not about giving every part of life an equal number of hours. It is about having enough flexibility to respond to what matters most at that moment, without losing sight of why you are doing it all.

Andrew and I also explore the guilt created by rigid routines, why some people become sick the moment they finally go on holiday, and why exercise, sleep and looking after your health are essential parts of creating a sustainable life. My philosophy is simple: consistency beats perfection. You cannot always remove the sources of stress i.e. you cannot simply quit being a parent, abandon your responsibilities or walk away from a business you believe in. But you can strengthen your ability to manage them. Sometimes that means moving a task from Sunday to Monday. Sometimes it means asking your partner, colleague or friend for help. Real balance is not doing everything perfectly; it is building a life whose demands you can sustain and whose purpose you can still enjoy.

Casual chats, real conversations. We’re the two mates: Vincent and Andrew, and you’re the half, listening in.

Available for iOS and Android

The Pursuit of Happiness: Are We Looking in the Wrong Place? After Hours #041

Dr Vincent — Thu, 03 Sep 2026 07:02:01 GMT

I’ve been thinking a lot about happiness lately, not the Instagram version of happiness, where everything looks perfect, but the kind you actually feel when you sit quietly with your own life. I can be tired, nervous about what is coming next, dealing with problems at work and still genuinely say that I am happy. For me, happiness is not the absence of difficulty; it is the feeling that I am where I am supposed to be, doing something that matters, and living in a way that leaves as little room for regret as possible. Money, health, achievement and comfort absolutely contribute to our wellbeing, and I don’t believe we should pretend otherwise. But they are not happiness by themselves. One idea from this conversation stayed with me: success is having what you want, while happiness is wanting what you have. Perhaps the real pursuit of happiness begins when we stop treating happiness as the prize waiting for us after the next achievement and start seeing it as something we can choose and cultivate along the way.

So what actually helps? Stephen and I came back to five remarkably simple things: connect, be active, take notice, keep learning and give. Connection is not about collecting followers; it is about feeling known and valued, and sometimes it can be as simple as messaging someone you haven’t spoken to in years. Being active doesn’t mean becoming an athlete—it can mean moving your body or keeping your mind curious. Taking notice means slowing down long enough to actually smell the coffee, look at the night sky or appreciate the tiny moments we normally rush past. Keep learning, because curiosity keeps life expanding. And finally, give—not necessarily money, but your time, experience, support or even a few thoughtful words. I think we spend so much of life waiting for the big moment that will finally make us happy that we risk missing hundreds of small happiness moments happening right in front of us. Maybe happiness is not something we eventually find. Maybe it is something we practise.

After Hours is where science gets personal. Hosted by Dr Vincent, your friendly neighbourhood scientist and Stephen!

Available for iOS and Android

Newsletter Issue #21 - The Protein Trap

Dr Vincent — Sun, 30 Aug 2026 11:25:16 GMT

Protein is essential—but more isn’t automatically better. Look beyond the marketing, eat for variety, and remember that food provides the building blocks; your body still has to do the work.

Reading it on your phone or tablet? Click HERE

Newsletter Issue #21

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This week, we cut through the protein hype and ask what our bodies actually need. From protein powders and supermarket marketing to plant versus animal sources, ancestral diets and First Nations seasonal food knowledge, the message is simple: protein is important, but it’s only one part of a healthy diet. Variety, whole foods and how you actually use your body matter far more than a “high protein” claim on a packet.

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Protein has gone from being an essential nutrient to one of the biggest marketing buzzwords in the supermarket. This week on After Hours with Dr Vincent, Stephen and I ask whether our obsession with “high protein” is actually making us healthier. Protein absolutely matters: it supports tissue repair, muscle maintenance and countless functions throughout the body. But putting extra protein into a cereal, chocolate bar or processed snack doesn’t magically transform it into a healthy food. And protein alone doesn’t build muscle—movement and resistance training create the demand for repair, while food supplies the materials your body needs to do it.

We also take a much bigger look at how humans have eaten protein throughout history, from seasonal and place-based food systems to the enormous variety now available in our supermarkets. The lesson is surprisingly simple: variety matters more than dietary tribalism. Rather than treating carnivore, vegan, keto, Paleo or “high protein” as an identity, build meals around diverse, recognisable foods and let plants occupy plenty of space on the plate. Meat, seafood, eggs and dairy can provide highly digestible protein, while legumes, nuts, seeds and other plant foods bring fibre, healthy fats and phytochemicals. This issue also explores First Nations seasonal food knowledge and finishes with a seeded cottage-cheese loaf delivering roughly 8–10 grams of protein per slice.

With my best

Dr Vincent

PS. Yes I know, we accidentall skip an issue! Sorry!

Newsletter Library

After Hours is where science gets personal. Hosted by Dr Vincent, your friendly neighbourhood scientist and Stephen!
This newsletter and podcast is part of the Ask Dr Vincent on Substack.

Are We Getting Old or Just Getting Better?

Dr Vincent — Fri, 28 Aug 2026 23:30:36 GMT

From aching backs and slower recovery to greater confidence, parenthood and knowing what actually matters, Andrew and I ask what “ageing gracefully” really looks like.

Getting older is strange because you rarely notice it happening one day at a time. Then suddenly your friends are celebrating milestone birthdays, a big night out requires a little more planning, recovery takes longer, and things like sleep, mobility and looking after your body start to matter in ways they never did in your twenties. In this episode of Two and a Half Mates, Coach Andrew and I talk about what we imagined life would look like by this age, becoming parents later in life, and the trade-off that comes with getting older: perhaps we don’t bounce back physically quite as quickly, but we have more confidence, perspective and appreciation for where we are.

We also get into the practical side of ageing well: staying active, protecting mobility, prioritising sleep and recovery, managing screen time, understanding that supplements and skincare can’t replace a healthy lifestyle, and finding routines that actually work for the stage of life you’re in. But underneath all of that is a much bigger idea. Ageing isn’t something I think we should be frightened of or constantly try to reverse. Andrew and I both feel more confident and more comfortable with ourselves now than we did when we were younger—and, as we say at the end of the episode, growing older is actually a privilege that not everybody gets. That makes every birthday something worth celebrating.

Casual chats, real conversations. We’re the two mates: Vincent and Andrew, and you’re the half, listening in.

Available for iOS and Android

Protein Is Everywhere, but Does More Protein Mean Healthier? After Hours #040

Dr Vincent — Thu, 27 Aug 2026 07:02:38 GMT

Protein is essential. Our bodies need it to repair and rebuild tissue, and our individual needs change depending on our size, diet and level of physical activity. But somewhere along the way, “high protein” also became shorthand for “healthy”.

In this episode of After Hours, Stephen and I look past that health halo and ask whether adding protein to everything from cereal and cheese to chocolate and snacks actually makes those foods better for us. We explore where protein comes from, the role of plant and animal sources, why active people may need more, how whey protein became such a huge industry, and why simply eating more protein will not magically build muscle without giving your body a reason to use it.

The conversation also takes us into the much bigger world of dieting: detox products, diuretics, crash diets, protein-maxing, carnivore, keto and the constant search for a shortcut to a healthier body. My view throughout the episode is that nutrition should never be reduced to declaring one nutrient “good” and another “bad”. Protein has an important place in our diet, but so do carbohydrates, fats, fibre and the many nutrients we get from a varied diet. The best approach is ultimately the one that supports your health and can realistically become part of your life. As one of my university lecturers once told me, if the way you achieve your “dream body” is something you could never sustain, then it probably isn't a dream at all.

After Hours is where science gets personal. Hosted by Dr Vincent, your friendly neighbourhood scientist and Stephen!

Available for iOS and Android

Rest, Restore, Repeat: Prepare Your Body for the Clock Change

Dr Vincent — Wed, 26 Aug 2026 01:28:05 GMT

As we enter the warmer months and welcome spring, many of us naturally feel motivated to move more, train more consistently and return to healthier routines. The brighter mornings and longer days can give us a welcome lift, but this seasonal change can also affect one of the most important foundations of our health: sleep.

On Sunday, 4 October, daylight saving begins in New South Wales and our clocks move forward by one hour. It may not sound like much, but our bodies do not run according to the clock on the wall. We have an internal body clock, known as our circadian rhythm, which helps regulate when we feel awake, hungry, tired and ready to sleep.

Moving the clock forward by an hour can temporarily throw this rhythm off balance. You may find it harder to fall asleep at your usual time, more difficult to wake in the morning or notice that you feel unusually tired during the day. When this happens alongside an increase in training, work, family commitments and everyday stress, the body can begin to feel as though it is constantly trying to catch up.

That is why spring is not only a time to focus on doing more. It is also the perfect time to become more intentional about how you rest and restore.

Your body performs much of its important recovery work while you sleep. This is when muscles repair, energy is replenished and the nervous system has an opportunity to settle after the demands of the day. Good sleep also supports concentration, emotional balance and the motivation needed to return for your next day session.

In the lead-up to daylight saving, try shifting your bedtime slightly earlier rather than waiting until the night the clocks change. Even 10 to 15 minutes earlier each night can help your body adjust more gradually. Keep your evening routine consistent, reduce bright screens close to bedtime and get outside into the natural morning light after waking. These simple signals help your internal body clock understand when it is time to be alert and when it is time to wind down.

I also recommend creating a simple “rest and restore” ritual after dinner or before bed. When you repeat the same calming actions each evening, they become a signal that the active part of your day is ending and recovery is beginning.

This is the idea behind our Rest & Restore Pack, which brings together An Apple A Day and Mental Resilience Plus+.

An Apple A Day contains the patented Activated Phenolics I invented, derived from Australian apples. These concentrated antioxidants support the body’s natural antioxidant defences, help relieve inflammation and provide support during recovery from exercise and the oxidative stress of everyday life.

Mental Resilience Plus+ combines Activated Phenolics with high-potency passionflower extract. It is formulated to calm the nerves, support mind relaxation, decrease restless sleep and support a more refreshing sleep—helping you wind down at night and approach the following day with a clearer, calmer mind.

Together, they provide complementary support for the body and mind. An Apple A Day supports the physical side of recovery, while Mental Resilience Plus+ supports relaxation and restful sleep. Take the recommended daily servings with water after dinner or incorporate them into your regular pre-bed routine, always following the directions on the labels.

Of course, supplements do not replace a balanced diet, adequate hydration, good sleep habits or appropriate rest between demanding training sessions. Think of the Rest & Restore Pack as part of those foundations: an easy, repeatable evening step that supports the healthy routine you are already building.

This spring, do not measure progress only by how hard you train. Pay attention to how well you recover, too. As the clocks move forward and your schedule becomes busier, make time each evening to rest, restore and repeat.

If you want to support better recovery, a calmer mind and more refreshing sleep, start your new evening ritual with the Rest & Restore Pack.

Newsletter Issue #19 - Are You Ready When the Unexpected Happens?

Dr Vincent — Sun, 23 Aug 2026 11:01:36 GMT

Preparedness isn’t paranoia. It’s knowing what matters, who you can rely on, and what you’ll do when everyday systems suddenly stop working.

Reading it on your phone or tablet? Click HERE

Newsletter 19

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This week, we ask whether you’re truly prepared for the unexpected, from supply-chain disruptions and emergencies to the everyday importance of health, medication and community. We also uncover the surprising history of “blood is thicker than water” and explore what family, friendship and chosen loyalty really mean. Ultimately, preparedness isn’t about fear—it’s about looking after yourself and the people who matter before a crisis forces you to.

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What would you do if the power went out, supply chains stalled or you suddenly had to stay home for several days? This week on After Hours with Dr Vincent, Stephen and I went down the rabbit hole of emergency preparedness—from floods and cyclones to supply shortages and even nuclear fallout. But beneath the doomsday scenarios was a much more practical message: being prepared isn’t about living in fear. It’s about thinking ahead. Water, shelf-stable food, essential medications, a radio and torch matter, but so does something we often overlook—community. When normal systems fail, the people around us can become one of our greatest resources.

That idea of connection carries through the rest of this week’s newsletter as we explore the real history behind the phrase “blood is thicker than water.” Its documented origins support the traditional idea of family bonds, while Confucian thought, sworn brotherhood and Buddhist ideas of friendship give us a richer question to consider: what actually makes a relationship worthy of our loyalty? Perhaps the strongest bonds aren’t defined by blood alone, but by compassion, trust, responsibility and who chooses to stand beside us when it matters. And maybe that’s the connection between preparedness and longevity too: don’t wait for a crisis, illness or major life event before looking after your health—or the people you care about.

With my best

Dr Vincent

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After Hours is where science gets personal. Hosted by Dr Vincent, your friendly neighbourhood scientist and Stephen!
This newsletter and podcast is part of the Ask Dr Vincent on Substack.

Episode 1 — So… How Did We End Up Here?

Dr Vincent — Fri, 21 Aug 2026 22:01:39 GMT

The introduction without doing a boring “welcome to our podcast” episode.

We start with who we are, what we do and why we decided to put microphones in front of the conversations we were already having. Then we let it drift into where we both are in life right now.

Casual chats, real conversations. We’re the two mates: Vincent and Andrew, and you’re the half, listening in.

Available for iOS and Android

Doomsday - After Hours #039

Dr Vincent — Thu, 20 Aug 2026 07:00:22 GMT

Quite honestly, not too sure what to write here because I certainly do not want to come across as a prepper, but I still think it doesn’t hurt to be prepared.

Stephen and I dove into multiple topics on how to survive a big disasterous event. Certainly the episode you don’t want to miss!

After Hours is where science gets personal. Hosted by Dr Vincent, your friendly neighbourhood scientist and Stephen!

Available for iOS and Android

Newsletter Issue #18 - Knowledge Is Power at the Supermarket Shelf

Dr Vincent — Sun, 16 Aug 2026 11:03:02 GMT

From food labels to seafood sourcing, knowing what we’re buying helps us make better choices for our health, our families and the world around us.

Reading it on your phone or tablet? Click HERE

Newsletter Issue 18

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This week’s After Hours newsletter looks at how much we really know about the food we buy, from the “health halo” created by clever packaging to the importance of reading ingredient lists, understanding sugar content and knowing where our food comes from. We also explore why food processing itself is not the enemy, how seafood sourcing and fishing methods can affect both ethics and sustainability, and why transparency across the food chain matters. Ultimately, the message is simple: better information helps us make better choices, and good health should never depend on confusing labels, marketing tricks or how much money you can afford to spend.

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One thing I keep coming back to is that healthy choices should not depend on guesswork. Whether I’m standing in a supermarket, ordering dinner or choosing seafood at a restaurant, I want enough information to make a decision that feels right for me. That means looking beyond the front of the packet, understanding where food comes from, and questioning the assumptions created by words like “fat-free”, “plant-based” or “no added sugar”. This issue explores exactly that: how food marketing can create a health halo, why provenance matters, and why even simple information such as whether seafood is Australian, imported or mixed can give us more control over the choices we make.

For me, though, this conversation goes beyond labels. I don’t believe food needs to be perfect, expensive or completely unprocessed to be part of a healthy life. I believe we need transparency, context and balance. Processing can make food safer, reduce waste and extend shelf life, just as responsible fishing and farming can help feed a growing population. The real question is whether the system gives us enough information to understand how something was produced, who benefited from it and what impact our choice might have. In the end, I’m not interested in telling people exactly what to eat. I want people to have the knowledge and confidence to decide for themselves—because good health should never be complicated, gatekept or reserved for those who can afford it.

With my best

Dr Vincent

Newsletter Library

After Hours is where science gets personal. Hosted by Dr Vincent, your friendly neighbourhood scientist and Stephen!
This newsletter and podcast is part of the Ask Dr Vincent on Substack.

Two and a half mates

Dr Vincent — Fri, 14 Aug 2026 06:30:30 GMT

Well let us explain! We both are dads, foudners, business owners and MATES!

We find it quite challenging to make time to catch up and have a proper chat, so we decided to commit to doing a podcast instead! Not really scripted, no agenda. Just two mates having real conversations that you happen to be listening to!

We won’t solve all the problems in the world, but hopefully the things we talk about are relatable and since you’re our half mate, feel free to drop in your questions, suggestions or feedback.

We can’t wait to record our first episode next week! We plan to record LIVE on Substack every Thursday and publish the full episode on Saturdays!

Casual chats, real conversations. We’re the two mates: Vincent and Andrew, and you’re the half, listening in.

Food for thoughts: Stop Reading the Front of the Pack? - After Hours 038

Dr Vincent — Thu, 13 Aug 2026 07:01:27 GMT

I spend a lot of time talking about making healthier choices, but there is a problem we don’t talk about enough: the supermarket is designed to make those choices feel much simpler than they really are. A strawberry on the front of a packet, the words “no added sugar,” “fat free,” “plant-based” or a beautifully photographed serving suggestion can create what we call a health halo—the perception that a product is healthier than it necessarily is. This is why one of the simplest things I tell people is to turn the packet around. Look at the first few ingredients. Look at the sugar. Look at what is actually in the food rather than relying entirely on what the marketing department decided to put on the front. I don’t think eating well should require a science degree, and consumers shouldn’t have to decode clever language just to understand what they’re putting into their bodies.

I’m also not anti-processing—in fact, as a food scientist, I think food processing is one of the great achievements of modern food technology. It can make food safer, extend shelf life, reduce waste and make nutrition more accessible. The problem begins when we confuse processed with engineered to look healthier than it is, or when better nutrition becomes something reserved for people with more money, more time or more knowledge. At the very core of what I believe as a scientist is that health should be accessible to everyone. Better labels, clearer information and greater transparency don’t make the decision for us—they give us the ability to make that decision for ourselves. And sometimes, being a smarter shopper really does begin with one very simple action: turn the packet around.

After Hours is where science gets personal. Hosted by Dr Vincent, your friendly neighbourhood scientist and Stephen!

Available for iOS and Android

Newsletter Issue #17 - Beyond the Label

Dr Vincent — Sun, 09 Aug 2026 11:46:31 GMT

From allergen warnings to Health Star Ratings, understanding food labels isn't just about making healthier choices—it could protect your health and your family's safety.

Reading it on your phone or tablet? Click HERE

2026 08 09 Newsletter

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This week, we investigate the truth behind food labels, explain Australia's updated allergen labelling rules, explore the realities of food allergies, introduce Activated Greens Plus+, and share a delicious gluten-free friand recipe. Understanding your food starts with reading beyond the marketing on the front of the pack.

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Food packaging is designed to inform us, but how much can we really trust what it says? This week on After Hours with Dr Vincent, we unpack the growing concerns surrounding food labelling in Australia—from allergen declarations and country-of-origin claims to the limitations of the Health Star Rating system. Inspired by the recent Four Corners investigation, we explore why clear, accurate labels matter, who is responsible when they fail, and why consumers should never rely on front-of-pack marketing alone when making important health decisions.

This issue also examines Australia's new Plain English allergen labelling laws, explaining how clearer ingredient declarations can make food safer for millions of Australians living with allergies. We dive into the science behind food allergies, discuss why ingredient lists are ultimately safety documents rather than marketing tools, and highlight practical ways to navigate food labels with greater confidence. Alongside this, we introduce Activated Greens Plus+, share a gluten-free friand recipe, and reinforce a simple message: the more informed you are about what's in your food, the better equipped you are to make healthier, safer choices every day.

With my best

Dr Vincent

Newsletter Library

After Hours is where science gets personal. Hosted by Dr Vincent, your friendly neighbourhood scientist and Stephen!
This newsletter and podcast is part of the Ask Dr Vincent on Substack.

Food (mis)labelling: Can You Really Trust Food Labels?

Dr Vincent — Thu, 06 Aug 2026 07:02:51 GMT

Every time I walk through the supermarket, I’m reminded that most of us make buying decisions in just a few seconds. We trust what is printed on the front of the pack—whether it’s “Australian made,” “gluten free,” “organic,” or a high Health Star Rating—to guide those decisions. But after watching the recent Four Corners investigation into food labelling, I was reminded how important it is to look beyond the marketing. Food labels should exist to help consumers make informed choices, not leave them confused. When allergen statements are unclear, country-of-origin claims are misleading, or health ratings oversimplify nutrition, it isn’t just a marketing issue—it becomes an issue of trust and, in some cases, safety.

As both a food scientist and a consumer, I believe honesty should always come before marketing. I don’t expect food to be perfect, but I do expect labels to accurately reflect what’s inside the package. Consumers deserve transparency so they can make decisions that suit their health, values and budget. Rather than chasing buzzwords or relying on a single rating, I encourage people to read ingredient lists, understand what they’re buying and remember that no front-of-pack claim can replace informed decision-making. The best food label is one that tells the truth—clearly, consistently and without compromise.

After Hours is where science gets personal. Hosted by Dr Vincent, your friendly neighbourhood scientist and Stephen!
This podcast is part of the Ask Dr Vincent on Substack.

Available for iOS and Android

Newsletter Issue #16 - The Hidden Health Crisis Men Don't Talk About

Dr Vincent — Sun, 02 Aug 2026 11:17:29 GMT

Newsletter #16

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This week, we unpack the hidden impact of chronic inflammation, share ten simple habits to help reduce it, explore the science and everyday uses of ginger, and explain why smarter skincare works with your skin instead of against it. Small choices, repeated consistently, can make a remarkable difference to your long-term health.

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Loneliness isn't just an emotion. It's a health issue. Discover why meaningful connection, movement and community may be some of the most powerful forms of preventive medicine.

This week on After Hours with Dr Vincent, we tackle a topic that too often goes unspoken: male loneliness. We explore the difference between being alone and feeling lonely, why major life transitions such as fatherhood, retirement and career changes can leave men feeling isolated, and why asking for help is a sign of strength rather than weakness. Through personal stories, research and practical advice, we discuss how genuine connection is built through consistent effort, shared experiences and having the courage to reach out before loneliness takes hold.

We also answer a timely listener question about breaking out of winter routines as spring approaches. From chasing morning sunlight and joining walking groups to discovering playful new ways to move, we share simple strategies to rebuild healthy habits without chasing perfection. Alongside these conversations, we explain the science behind Activated Greens Plus+ and how broad-spectrum plant nutrients can help support everyday health, finishing with a delicious gluten-free friand recipe to make healthy eating both practical and enjoyable.

With my best

Dr Vincent

After Hours is where science gets personal. Hosted by Dr Vincent, your friendly neighbourhood scientist and Stephen!
This podcast is part of the Ask Dr Vincent on Substack.

The Male Health Crisis Nobody Wants to Talk About - After Hours #036

Dr Vincent — Thu, 30 Jul 2026 06:55:08 GMT

There is a growing health crisis that doesn’t show up on a blood test, an MRI or even during a routine check-up. It’s loneliness. We often think of loneliness as something that only affects older people, but the reality is that it can affect anyone, especially men. As life changes through careers, fatherhood and increasing responsibilities, many men slowly lose the friendships and routines that once kept them connected. What makes this particularly challenging is that loneliness is often hidden behind success, busyness or the belief that everyone else is coping just fine. Yet research shows loneliness is linked to poorer physical and mental health, reminding us that meaningful relationships are just as important to our wellbeing as exercise and good nutrition.

I don’t believe the solution is simply telling people to “make more friends.” Real connection takes intention. For me, some of the best places to build friendships are through shared experiences, whether that’s joining a gym, a walking group, a community class or even attending a local workshop. The goal isn’t to leave with a best friend after one visit. It’s simply to keep showing up. A simple conversation, a familiar face or asking someone how they’re really doing can make a remarkable difference. Being alone isn’t the same as being lonely, and investing in our relationships with others, and with ourselves, may be one of the most powerful things we can do for our long-term health and happiness.

After Hours is where science gets personal. Hosted by Dr Vincent, your friendly neighbourhood scientist and Stephen!
This podcast is part of the Ask Dr Vincent on Substack.

Available for iOS and Android

Newsletter Issue #15 - Breakfast: The Habit That Refuses to Go Away

Dr Vincent — Mon, 27 Jul 2026 10:53:05 GMT

Newsletter #15

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This week's newsletter explores the evidence behind breakfast, sugar and coffee, offering practical, science-backed strategies for building a healthier morning routine while making smarter everyday nutrition choices.

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Breakfast is one of nutrition's most enduring debates, and this week on After Hours with Dr Vincent, we revisit the science with fresh eyes. We explore what decades of research tell us about breakfast and cognitive performance, why quality matters more than simply eating first thing, and how the modern obsession with health data can sometimes create more anxiety than better health. Along the way, we discuss sleep, sustainable habits and why the best health advice is often the advice you can actually stick with for life.

We also answer a listener's question about whether sugary breakfasts are acceptable if you're active, comparing popular cereals, explaining how much exercise it takes to burn them off, and why reading nutrition labels is so important. Plus, we examine the role of coffee in your morning routine, including the best time to enjoy your first cup, and share practical ways to use Activated Greens Plus+ to bridge everyday nutritional gaps. It's a reminder that lasting health isn't built on extreme routines, but on small, repeatable choices that work with your body rather than against it.

With my best

Dr Vincent

After Hours is where science gets personal. Hosted by Dr Vincent, your friendly neighbourhood scientist and Stephen!
This podcast is part of the Ask Dr Vincent on Substack.

The Best of Both Worlds - After Hours #035

Dr Vincent — Fri, 24 Jul 2026 06:41:47 GMT

One of the things I love most about hosting the After Hours podcast is that it constantly challenges my own thinking. Every week, Stephen and I explore questions that seem simple on the surface but quickly become much more complex. In this episode, we revisit one of the biggest debates in health: is breakfast really the most important meal of the day? Along the way, we also talk about wearable technology, sleep tracking, the balance between data and intuition, and why living a healthy life is about much more than chasing perfect numbers. The more I learn, the more I realise that health is rarely black and white. It is about finding what works for your body while staying curious enough to keep asking better questions.

Perhaps the biggest lesson I took away from this conversation is that longevity should never come at the expense of actually enjoying life. I want to live a long life, but more importantly, I want to live a healthy, happy and meaningful one. Whether it’s deciding if breakfast suits your lifestyle, learning something new every day, or resisting the temptation to obsess over every health metric on your smartwatch, I believe balance will always beat perfection. I hope this episode encourages you to think critically, stay curious and remember that sometimes the best health advice isn’t choosing one extreme over another, but finding the best of both worlds.

After Hours is where science gets personal. Hosted by Dr Vincent, your friendly neighbourhood scientist and Stephen!
This podcast is part of the Ask Dr Vincent on Substack.

Available for iOS and Android

Social Media and Health

Dr Vincent — Mon, 20 Jul 2026 00:29:23 GMT

Social media often gets blamed for making us less healthy. It fuels comparison, unrealistic expectations and an endless stream of conflicting advice. But after returning from the US, completing my first HYROX and reflecting on the conversations Stephen and I had in this episode, I found myself asking a different question. Could social media also be encouraging more people to move, challenge themselves and build healthier habits? The answer, I think, is more nuanced than a simple yes or no.

In this episode, I share my own internal tug of war with social media. I admit that posting my HYROX result gave me a sense of pride, but it also made me question where the motivation was really coming from. We explore how technology can inspire us to walk more, exercise together and celebrate progress, while also recognising the dangers of comparison and turning health into a competition. My hope is that this conversation reminds you to use social media as a tool rather than letting it use you, and to remember that the healthiest journey is still the one that helps you become a better version of yourself, not someone else’s.

After Hours is where science gets personal. Hosted by Dr Vincent, your friendly neighbourhood scientist and Stephen!
This podcast is part of the Ask Dr Vincent on Substack.

Available for iOS and Android

Newsletter Issue #14 - Is Social Media Helping or Hurting Your Health?

Dr Vincent — Sun, 19 Jul 2026 10:47:00 GMT

Newsletter Issue #14

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This week's newsletter explores how social media shapes our health decisions, examines the science behind breakfast and chia seeds, and shares practical lessons on building lasting healthy habits through consistent daily action rather than chasing online trends.

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Social media has transformed the way we learn about health, but not always for the better. In this week's After Hours with Dr Vincent, we unpack how algorithms often reward engagement over accuracy, making it easier for misinformation, unrealistic body standards and quick-fix wellness trends to spread. We also revisit the timeless foundations of good health, including regular movement, hydration and building sustainable habits, reminding listeners that the basics consistently outperform the latest viral fad.

This issue also takes a deep dive into one of nutrition's longest-running debates: is breakfast really the most important meal of the day? We explore what the evidence actually says, why breakfast isn't essential for everyone, and who is most likely to benefit from it. You'll also discover the science behind chia seeds, practical ways to include them in your diet, insights from Dr Vincent's HYROX experience on becoming an "everyday athlete", and why choosing evidence over hype remains the key to long-term health.

After Hours is where science gets personal. Hosted by Dr Vincent, your friendly neighbourhood scientist and Stephen!
This podcast is part of the Ask Dr Vincent on Substack.