In the midst of fierce wildfires, I find refuge in a dimly lit event space in downtown Los Angeles, far removed from the turmoil outside, where I’m joining tech visionary Bryan Johnson for an electrifying gathering. Renowned for his ambitious quest to combat aging, Johnson is spearheading the Don’t Die Summit, a full-day event dedicated to fostering a community around his anti-aging philosophy.
The morning festivities begin promptly at 10:30 a.m., and there’s Johnson—standing tall with his strikingly pale skin—immersing himself in the deep house rhythm, exuding youthful exuberance. A crowd of enthusiastic attendees surrounds him while a vigilant security guard keeps a watchful eye over the vibrant scene.
With ticket prices ranging from $249 to $599, the summit promises attendees an array of engaging experiences, including keynote speeches, biological age assessments, and a unique longevity-themed “amusement park.” For those opting for the VIP experience, a chance to dine with Johnson the night before awaits at a premium price of $1,499. This event comes on the heels of a Netflix documentary that delves into Johnson’s rigorous health routines and his provocative methods for life extension.
Johnson is refreshingly candid about his journey toward reversing aging, openly discussing both his successes and setbacks. His approach is a mix of scientific rigor and sensational flair, illustrated by his practices, such as facial fat injections and the public sharing of his personal biomarker data, all of which capture the fascination of global audiences.
As I walk into the summit, I anticipated a room filled with sweaty male biohackers; instead, I’m pleasantly surprised by the gender-diverse crowd. This gathering encapsulates the dual nature of Johnson’s mission—an earnest endeavor to defy mortality paired with a self-aware humor that acknowledges the whimsical aspects of his pursuits.
Throughout the day, participants engage in a variety of activities, including biological age assessments, conversations about women’s health, and evaluations of longevity solutions. While Johnson’s message resonates deeply with many, there are skeptics who draw parallels between the quest for immortality and the ancient tales of eternal punishment.
As the summit wraps up, Johnson articulates his ambition to establish Don’t Die as a leading ideology of our era. Contemplating his words, I recognize the significance of maintaining balance in life—something akin to the 80/20 principle he advocates. As I make my way home, with my stomach grumbling, I reflect on the insights gained from a day dedicated to pushing the limits of human longevity.
