The Science of Light with Matt Maruca

In this episode of the Biohacker's Podcast, Teemu Arina speaks with Matt Maruca, founder and CEO of Ra Optics, to examine the critical role light plays in human biology.

Matt reframes light as a primary biological input that regulates circadian rhythm, hormone production, mitochondrial efficiency, and sleep quality. He explains how excessive exposure to artificial blue light (especially after sunset!) disrupts melatonin release and contributes to metabolic dysfunction, poor recovery, and chronic fatigue. Ra Optics was founded to address these challenges through scientifically engineered eyewear that selectively filters harmful wavelengths while preserving beneficial light.

The discussion moves beyond blue light fear-mongering into practical circadian strategy. Matt emphasizes the importance of bright, full-spectrum light exposure during the day to anchor biological timing, while advocating warm, low-intensity lighting in the evening to support sleep. He highlights the role of red and near-infrared light in mitochondrial energy production and recovery, and cautions against low-quality lenses that distort vision or block indiscriminately.

Looking forward, Matt envisions a future where personalized light environments - integrated with sleep and performance data - become central to health optimization. The episode concludes with a shared message: improving light hygiene is one of the highest-leverage, lowest-effort interventions available in modern biohacking.

Learn more about Ra Optics at https://raoptics.com and follow Matt on Instagram: @thelightdiet!

This conversation was recorded in October 2025.

Check https://hololifesummit.com for upcoming events & tickets! Devices, supplements, guides, books & quality online courses for supporting your health & performance: https://hololifecenter.com

Key moments and takeaways:

00:00 – Introduction by Teemu Arina

01:10 - Matt Maruca and the story of Raw Optics

02:25 - Matt’s early health struggles

04:00 - The impact of artificial light on health and well-being

05:30 - The importance of aligning with natural circadian rhythms

06:50 - Overview of the unique lenses produced by Ra Optics

08:30 - Matt reflects on his experience at the 2018 Biohacker Summit

10:20 - How mitochondrial dysfunction became a central focus for Matt

12:15 - The limitations of Western medicine

14:00 - Epigenetics and the relationship between diet, environment, and health

16:00 - Mitochondrial function: the basis for energy production and health

18:45 - How light frequency affects our biology and promotes healing

20:30 - Matt’s collaboration with Dr. Jack Cruz and other luminaries in the field

22:45 - The role of blue light in circadian rhythm regulation

25:00 - Blue light as a form of environmental toxin and its consequences

27:15 - Insights from Dr. Alexander Wunsch on photobiology and light effects

30:00 - The dynamics of melatonin production and its health implications

32:30 - Differentiating between blue light protection and traditional eye care

34:15 - Understanding the types of blue light blocking lenses: sunset and daylight

37:30 - The science behind Ra Optics’ lenses and their effectiveness

40:00 - Testimonials from professional athletes using the eyewear

42:45 - Discussion on emerging products: BlueSync lenses and their features

45:15 - How lifestyle adaptations enhance wellness beyond dietary changes

48:00 - The importance of community and collaboration in the biohacking field

50:00 - Stylish designs of Ra Optics and celebrity collaborations

52:15 - Viewer testimonials and personal experiences with the products

55:00 - Conclusion and where to find more information on Ra Optics