#228 JJ Virgin — On Muscle Is the New Longevity: The Science of Strength, Aging & Metabolism

When it comes to longevity, your gut might hold the master key. In this fascinating episode, Colleen Cutcliffe, PhD, CEO and co-founder of Pendulum Therapeutics, reveals how a single gut bacterium—Akkermansia muciniphila—is transforming the future of metabolic and hormonal health. From her daughter’s early health challenges to pioneering live Akkermansia in supplement form, Colleen shares her journey from biotech to natural therapeutics. Discover how the microbiome impacts metabolism, energy, brain function, menopause, and even GLP-1 hormone production—the same pathway drugs like Ozempic mimic. We explore: - Why 88% of Americans are metabolically unhealthy - The gut’s role as the root system of longevity - How Akkermansia acts as “the glue” for gut lining integrity - The connection between gut bacteria and women’s hormones - Breakthroughs in microbiome-based therapies and “bugs as drugs” Whether you’re curious about reversing metabolic dysfunction or optimizing your healthspan naturally, this episode is your deep dive into the science and soul of gut health. Sponsors: - Carol Bike: Get $300 off from Oct 17 – Dec 26, 2025, with code CLAUDIA, and enjoy an ongoing $100 off afterward. Visit carolbike.com/claudia and use code CLAUDIA at checkout. - Pendulum: Get 20% off your first membership order at pendulumlife.com/CLAUDIA20, your discount applies automatically. - Juvent: Get $300 off the Juvent Micro-Impact Platform at juvent.com/CLAUDIA and check out with code CLAUDIA. - Kineon: Get 10% off your MOVE+ Pro at kineon.io/claudia - Calocurb: Get 10% off at calocurb.com/longevityandlifestyle with code CLAUDIA10 at checkout.