How I Built This: KETONE-IQ’s Founder Michael Brandt

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Picture this: you are a marathon runner – but not just any marathon runner. You've got a personal best under 2:45. You're a Stanford grad with a background in computer science and design. Instead of heading off to business school, you decide to start a company – one that's rethinking human metabolism from the ground up. That is the story of Michael Brandt. He's the CEO and co-founder of Ketone-IQ, a company pioneering the future of metabolic health. Their flagship product, Ketone-IQ isn't just a supplement – it's an entirely new category of fuel. In just a few short years, it's taken off. It gained traction with elite athletes, high powered execs, and even the U.S. Department of Defense, which awarded the company – then known as HVMN – a $6 million contract to study how ketones can optimize soldier performance.But Michael's story isn't just about biochemistry and business strategy; it's about thinking differently about seeing opportunity where others see obstacles. It's about choosing to put yourself out there even when it feels uncomfortable and about the unexpected connection between running a business and running a marathon, from testing the limits of human performance to building a multi-million dollar company. In a brand new category, Michael Brandt is a founder who's always running fast and thinking ahead with Ketone-IQ.Host: Chris Chavez | ⁠@chris_j_chavez on Instagram Guest: Michael Brandt | @michaeldbrandt on Instagram SUPPORT OUR SPONSORSKETONE-IQ: Level up your training with Ketone-IQ – a clean shot of energy with no sugar or caffeine. Or try the new Ketone-IQ + Caffeine, combining 5g of ketones with 100mg of green tea caffeine for a smooth, sustained boost. It’s used by pro runners like Des Linden and Sara Hall. Proven to enhance endurance, focus, and recovery, ketones are 28% more efficient than glucose. No crashes, no bonking—just next-level performance. Take the shot. Feel the difference. Save 30% off your first subscription order & receive a free six pack of Ketone-IQ with KETONE.com/CITIUS.RUNNA: Runna is the #1 rated personalized running app designed to help you crush your goals no matter the distance. Runna is trusted by hundreds of thousands of runners around the world and makes expert coaching accessible with personalized training plans that fit every goal, fitness level, and schedule. Whether it's someone's first 5K or it's someone chasing a marathon PB, they are here to help runners train smarter, stronger, and love every step of the way. Sign up for Runna today and get your first two weeks free using the code CITIUS.OLIPOP: Big name sodas are rolling out bold new flavors in 2025, but the real buzz is happening in the prebiotic pop aisle. If you haven't already jumped on the Olipop train yet, now's the time. BuzzFeed just came out with an article that recently named Olipop the best overall soda for flavor — and with a lineup that includes classic root beer, vintage cola and cherry vanilla, it's easy to see why. Try Olipop today and save 25% on your order using code CITIUS25 at checkout at DrinkOlipop.com.