The Hidden Cost of Suppressing Emotions with Dr. Hillary Goldsher Artwork

Health Is A Skill with Todd Vande Hei

Welcome to the Health is a Skill podcast with host Todd Vande Hei! Todd is the CEO of Stark, which exists to change the future of health and fitness in the communities they serve. For the last 15 years, Todd has been on a journey to discover what it means to be in a state of peak health. After suffering from a series of seizures and being diagnosed with high blood pressure and atrial fibrillation in his early 30’s, Todd decided it was time to make a change. Those changes fell into one of four categories: lifestyle, exercise, nutrition, and stress management. But the biggest thing Todd learned through it all? Health is a skill. You’re not born with it, like some would like you to believe, and it isn’t acquired by simply buying another product or starting that new diet. Health is something you can create for yourself, and over time it is possible to attain peak health.

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Health Is A Skill with Todd Vande Hei

The Hidden Cost of Suppressing Emotions with Dr. Hillary Goldsher

March 27, 2025 • Todd Vande Hei • Season 3 • Episode 12

Masculinity is evolving, but are men keeping up? In this compelling discussion, Dr. Hillary Goldsher joins Todd Vander Hei to unpack the societal pressures shaping modern masculinity and the consequences of emotional suppression.
They explore how men are taught to suppress emotions like fear, sadness, and anxiety—often leading to long-term consequences such as agitation, depression, sleep disorders, and even cardiovascular health issues. Todd shares his own experience with emotional suppression and the journey toward self-awareness, revealing how it reshaped his leadership, relationships, and well-being.

Dr. Hillary provides insight into the biochemical and psychological effects of bottling up emotions and how it manifests in different aspects of health, from hormonal imbalances to stress-related illnesses. The conversation shifts to practical strategies for men to recognize, process, and express emotions in a healthy way—without losing their sense of strength or identity. They also discuss the transformative potential of psychedelic-assisted therapy, with Todd recounting a powerful breakthrough from a friend who used ketamine therapy to unlock emotional awareness.

If you’ve ever felt pressure to “tough it out” or struggled to express emotions, this episode is a must-listen. Learn how self-awareness, advocacy, and emotional intelligence can not only improve mental well-being but also strengthen relationships, leadership, and overall health.

Get access to Todd's free health resource: https://podtodd.com
Learn more about Stark at: https://www.stark.health

CHAPTERS:
00:00 - The Pressure on Modern Masculinity
07:45 - How Emotional Suppression Affects Men's Health
14:30 - The Hidden Symptoms of Suppression
21:10 - Todd’s Personal Journey with Emotional Awareness
28:50 - How Suppressed Emotions Manifest in the Body
35:25 - Practical Strategies for Emotional Awareness
41:40 - The Power of Vulnerability in Leadership
49:10 - How Men Can Support Each Other Emotionally
56:20 - The Role of Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy
62:00 - Final Thoughts: The Cost of Suppression