On today's episode of Biohacking Blondes, we sit down with Jon Hacker, Founder & CEO of NeurGear and creator of Zenbud, a wearable neurotechnology device designed to support nervous system regulation through non-invasive ultrasound stimulation of the vagus nerve. Inspired by his own struggles with OCD and anxiety, Jon set out to create an easy-to-use tool that helps people better manage stress, improve recovery, and build resilience in everyday life. We dive into the science behind vagus nerve stimulation, how Zenbud differs from traditional electrical devices, what the latest research shows, who may benefit most, and simple ways to incorporate it into your daily routine. Jon also shares why calming the nervous system may be one of the most overlooked foundations of health and how technology can make stress management more accessible for everyone.
Zenbud is designed for extreme ease — no app required, powers on when plugged in (no buttons), automatic 30‑minute shutoff, works as regular headphones!! It's a plug‑and‑play headset that delivers focused ultrasound to the ear’s cymba concha (auricular vagus branch) to promote parasympathetic “recovery” activation.
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Get 15% OFF Zenbud using our exclusive listener link or with code BIOHACKINGBLONDES:
https://zenbud.health/biohackingblondes
10 Key Takeaways
1. Your nervous system needs exercise too.Just like building muscle, training your nervous system consistently may help your body become more resilient to everyday stress and increase your HRV.
2. Start with just 5 minutes a day.You don't need long sessions. Jon recommends beginning with about five minutes daily and seeing how you feel over the next few weeks.
3. Use it before stressful situations.Try Zenbud before an important meeting, travel, bedtime, or any time you feel overwhelmed to help your body shift into a calmer state.
4. Make it part of your daily routine.Use it while drinking your morning coffee, reading, working at your desk, or winding down before bed so it becomes an easy habit.
5. More isn't always better.Sessions up to about 30 minutes are generally appropriate, but using it for very long periods may leave some people feeling overly relaxed or drowsy.
6. Track how you're feeling.Pay attention to your stress levels, sleep quality, recovery, resting heart rate, or HRV over several weeks instead of expecting instant results.
7. It's a tool—not a magic fix.
Zenbud works best alongside healthy habits like good sleep, regular movement, balanced nutrition, stress management, and working with your healthcare practitioner.
8. Everyone responds differently.People with chronic stress or nervous system dysregulation may notice the biggest improvements, while others may experience more subtle benefits.
9. The goal is consistency, not perfection.A few minutes every day is likely more valuable than occasional long sessions.
10. The future of wellness is making healthy habits easier.Jon believes the best health technologies fit naturally into everyday life, making nervous system care as routine as brushing your teeth.
Learn More
Zenbud:
https://zenbud.health
Follow Jon & Zenbud
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zenbudhealth/
https://www.instagram.com/jon_t_hacker/
