Podcast Summary: Staying Alive with Jon Gabrus & Adam Pally
Episode: Cards & Climbing (w/ Nelson Dellis)
Release Date: August 7, 2025
Introduction to Nelson Dellis
In this episode of Staying Alive, hosts Jon Gabrus and Adam Pally welcome Nelson Dellis, a six-time memory champion of the United States and a self-proclaimed world champion. Nelson brings a unique blend of expertise in memory techniques and extreme physical challenges, notably his multiple attempts to summit Mount Everest. The conversation delves into Nelson's journey, his motivations, and the intersection of mental and physical health.
Personal Journey and Motivation
Nelson shares the profound personal motivation behind his dedication to memory championships and mountaineering. Inspired by his grandmother's battle with Alzheimer's disease, Nelson founded Climb for Memory, a nonprofit organization aimed at raising awareness and funds for Alzheimer's research.
Nelson Dellis [05:29]: “My grandmother was going through Alzheimer's, losing a lot of her memories and eventually passed away from it. That was a big catalyst for me to study memory.”
His commitment extends beyond mental prowess; Nelson's physical endeavors, like attempting Everest, are intertwined with his mission to support Alzheimer's research.
Memory Techniques and Training
The discussion shifts to Nelson's approach to becoming a memory champion. Contrary to popular belief, Nelson describes his memory as average until he consciously trained it using ancient mnemonic techniques.
Nelson Dellis [05:29]: “I've always had an average memory, but I didn't realize I could harness and train it until I delved into memory competitions.”
He emphasizes the importance of making the mind uncomfortable by constantly seeking new challenges, such as learning new languages or memorizing complex information under constraints. This active mental engagement is crucial for cognitive longevity.
Nelson Dellis [09:08]: “It's about tapping into your senses—not just visualizing, but what something felt like or sounded like. That sensory engagement makes memories more robust.”
Card Counting and Blackjack
Nelson transitions into discussing his expertise in card counting, a skill that complements his memory training. He explains the basics of the Plus/Minus System, where cards are assigned values to determine the statistical advantage in blackjack.
Nelson Dellis [34:13]: “You keep a running count by adding or subtracting values based on the cards that come out. This helps you gauge when the deck is favorable.”
Jon and Adam humorously explore the practicalities of card counting, from maintaining a running count without detection to the psychological aspects of staying inconspicuous at the blackjack table.
Jon Gabrus [34:20]: “So if I was sitting next to you, would I just copy your bets?”
Nelson clarifies that successful card counting isn't just about memorizing cards but also about integrating the technique seamlessly into gameplay without arousing suspicion.
Nelson Dellis [36:34]: “It's not that hard to keep the basic count, but the challenge is maintaining your composure and appearing natural at the table.”
Climbing Everest and Physical Training
A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to Nelson's mountaineering pursuits. He recounts his four attempts to summit Everest, detailing the physical and mental rigors involved.
Nelson Dellis [43:40]: “Every expedition tests you beyond your limits. It's not just about physical strength but also mental resilience.”
Nelson discusses the specialized training required, including endurance exercises, altitude acclimatization, and the importance of a balanced diet to maintain energy reserves.
Nelson Dellis [47:36]: “I switch my training to longer, slower cardio sessions and focus on strength training for my legs. Muscle mass needs to be optimized for oxygen efficiency at high altitudes.”
He also touches upon the logistical challenges, such as managing waste and the camaraderie among climbers.
Nelson Dellis [53:45]: “At base camp, it's a mix of basic accommodations and essential facilities. The experience fosters a unique bond among the team.”
Charity Work for Alzheimer's
Nelson intertwines his mountaineering with his charitable efforts, leveraging his climbs to support Climb for Memory. Each expedition serves as both a personal challenge and a fundraising initiative, channeling his achievements towards combating Alzheimer's.
Nelson Dellis [51:33]: “My climbs are not just personal milestones but also opportunities to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer's research.”
Jon and Adam commend Nelson's dedication, recognizing the dual impact of his endeavors on both personal growth and societal benefit.
Adam Pally [52:22]: “You've turned these challenges into a business that supports a noble cause. That's truly inspiring.”
Health and Wellness Tips
Towards the end of the conversation, Nelson outlines the four pillars of health that he adheres to, which have contributed to his mental and physical well-being:
- Mental Activity: Continuous engagement through memory training and challenging mental exercises.
- Physical Activity: Regular exercise tailored to support both memory and physical endurance.
- Balanced Diet: Cutting out processed foods and sugars, maintaining fat reserves for energy during climbs.
- Social Engagement: Maintaining strong social connections to support mental health and provide a support system.
Nelson Dellis [62:34]: “I’ve narrowed it down to four pillars of health: mental activity, physical activity, diet, and social engagement. These are key to maintaining cognitive and physical health.”
Jon and Adam discuss the practical applications of these pillars, relating them to their own lives and encouraging listeners to adopt similar habits for improved longevity and wellness.
Notable Quotes
- Nelson Dellis [05:29]: “My grandmother was going through Alzheimer's, losing a lot of her memories and eventually passed away from it. That was a big catalyst for me to study memory.”
- Nelson Dellis [09:08]: “It's about tapping into your senses—not just visualizing, but what something felt like or sounded like. That sensory engagement makes memories more robust.”
- Nelson Dellis [34:13]: “You keep a running count by adding or subtracting values based on the cards that come out. This helps you gauge when the deck is favorable.”
- Nelson Dellis [36:34]: “It's not that hard to keep the basic count, but the challenge is maintaining your composure and appearing natural at the table.”
- Nelson Dellis [43:40]: “Every expedition tests you beyond your limits. It's not just about physical strength but also mental resilience.”
- Nelson Dellis [62:34]: “I’ve narrowed it down to four pillars of health: mental activity, physical activity, diet, and social engagement. These are key to maintaining cognitive and physical health.”
Conclusion
The episode wraps up with Jon and Adam expressing their admiration for Nelson's multifaceted talents and relentless pursuit of excellence both mentally and physically. They highlight the importance of balancing diverse interests and maintaining a healthy lifestyle as outlined by their guest.
Adam Pally [73:40]: “That conversation with Nelson was awesome. He's a banger party guest for at least an hour.”
Nelson Dellis leaves listeners with actionable insights on enhancing memory, maintaining physical health, and the significance of social connections in overall wellness.
Note: All timestamps correspond to the provided transcript and indicate where notable discussions and quotes occur within the episode.