Travel affects more than just your schedule. It influences sleep, recovery, energy, focus, and how you show up once you arrive.
In this episode of The Mike Method, Mike Desjardins welcomes Andrew Herr, CEO of Fount and Flykitt, human performance expert, and advisor whose work has supported Navy SEALs, fighter pilots, professional sports teams, executives, and leading scientific institutions. Andrew has also been recognized twice by the U.S. Army as a \"Mad Scientist\" for his contributions to human performance research.
Together, Mike and Andrew explore the science behind jet lag and why the challenges associated with travel extend far beyond changing time zones. They discuss how pressure changes during flights can contribute to oxidative stress and inflammation, how circadian rhythms influence sleep and recovery, and why factors such as meal timing, noise exposure, hydration, and even aircraft selection can shape how we feel after traveling.
Andrew shares the story behind Flykitt, including how years of work supporting military personnel and high performers led to the development of a practical system designed to help people recover more effectively from long-distance travel. The conversation also explores broader lessons about innovation and leadership. Andrew reflects on the process of translating complex science into practical tools, the importance of listening to customer feedback, and how thoughtful product design can make evidence-based solutions more accessible.
Whether you travel frequently for work, lead teams across multiple time zones, or simply want to arrive feeling more prepared for what matters most, this episode offers practical insights grounded in both science and real-world experience.
Key topics discussed include:
• The physiological factors that contribute to jet lag
• The role of inflammation and oxidative stress during travel
• Why sleep timing and meal timing matter more than many people realize
• How noise exposure affects the nervous system during flights
• The differences between aircraft types and their impact on travel recovery
• Building products that simplify complex science for everyday use
• Leadership lessons from designing human-centered solutions
Connect with Andrew Herr:
If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who travels frequently for work or personal adventures.
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