Podcast

Live & Well

Fitness, Health & Fitness, Nutrition

Live & Well is your weekly catch-up with author, mother, and influencer Melissa Magsaysay and her circle of experts and icons—diving deep into the latest wellness, longevity, beauty and fitness and issues surrounding women. Melissa will take listeners into a vibrant world where beauty, fashion, and wellness intersect with cultural moments and personal transformation.

Each episode features conversations with leading + buzzy dermatologists, fitness innovators, beauty founders, and celebrities alike. Listeners can expect pro tips, product recs, juicy insider stories, and empowering perspectives that go beyond surface-level self-care—because looking good is great, but feeling good is everything.

Fitness chart
#46
Episodes
44
Releases
Weekly
Typical length
38 min
On air since
2025
Latest episode
5 days ago

Episodes

44 episodes, newest first

  1. Why Talk Therapy Fails to Heal Trauma (How Psychedelics Can Rewire the Brain)

    Episode 45

    Show notes

    Psychedelic assisted therapy is changing how we treat PTSD, depression, and treatment-resistant mental illness. In this interview, board-certified psychiatrist and neuroscientist Dr. David Rabin reveals how ketamine, MDMA, and somatic psychotherapy have the potential to help rewire the brain, reset fear circuitry, and repair trauma markers at the epigenetic level.

    Western psychiatry has traditionally relied on daily pharmaceuticals like SSRIs to manage symptoms, often telling patients their diagnosis is for life. Dr. Rabin explains why psychedelic medicine combined with a safe therapeutic container can offer something far closer to sustained remission.

    Key topics covered:
    • Rewiring vs. Numbing: How SSRIs blunt emotional range while psychedelics restore emotional tolerance and neuroplasticity.
    • Somatic Therapy & The Vagus Nerve: Why talk therapy alone cannot resolve trauma stored in the body, and how creating nervous system safety unlocks recovery.
    • Epigenetics & Generational Trauma: Breakthrough research showing how clinical MDMA therapy repairs stress-response markers on DNA to break trauma cycles.
    • Clinical Containers vs. Recreational Risks: Why unguided psychedelic use can trigger mania, God complexes, and delusional thinking — and how to identify vetted providers.

    TIMESTAMPS:
    00:00 - Psychedelic Assisted Therapy & Dr. David Rabin
    02:37 - Can Psychedelics Cure Mental Illness?
    05:31 - Clinical Trials: 1 to 3 Doses vs. Decades of Treatment
    09:20 - The Vagus Nerve & Nervous System Safety in Healing
    13:19 - How Trauma Stored in the Body Triggers Hyper-vigilance
    16:54 - Using Observer Mind to Rewrite Subconscious Beliefs
    22:05 - SSRIs vs. Psychedelic Neuroplasticity: Emotional Window Explained
    27:23 - Somatic Psychotherapy & Why the Body Keeps the Score
    32:28 - Root Causes of Anxiety & Things You Can Control
    38:43 - Spontaneous Remission: Ketamine for PTSD and Depression
    45:41 - Legal Status: Ketamine vs. MDMA vs. Psilocybin
    47:18 - Silicon Valley Psychedelic Culture, Mania, and God Complexes
    56:15 - Serotonin Syndrome Warning: Dangerous Drug Interactions
    01:00:18 - How to Find Vetted Psychedelic Therapy Providers & Clinical Trials
    01:03:28 - Psychedelics for Addiction: Ibogaine and Opioid Receptors
    01:07:01 - Epigenetics & Generational Trauma: Repairing DNA Markers
    01:12:44 - DNA-Personalized Remission Protocols
    01:14:21 - Apollo Neuro Wearable

    Medical Disclaimer: This video is for educational and informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Psychedelic substances carry risks and are subject to state and federal regulations. Always consult a licensed medical professional before beginning any new treatment or modifying existing prescriptions.

    #PsychedelicTherapy #KetamineTherapy #Neuroscience #TraumaHealing #MentalHealth

    1 hr 16 min
  2. Cortisol Explained — Belly Fat, Puffy Face, Coffee and Hormone Myths

    Episode 44

    Show notes

    Is "cortisol face" real? Does morning coffee ruin your hormones? Is low-impact exercise actually better for stress?

    Board-certified endocrinologist and hormone specialist Dr. Eva Cwynar breaks down the truth about cortisol, hormone balance, and social media trends. From the "90-minute coffee rule" to GLP-1 weight loss plateaus, Cushing’s syndrome, and how stress impacts fertility — learn what your body is actually doing throughout the day and how to optimize your hormones without falling for online marketing gimmicks.

    Timestamps:
    00:53 - Is "Cortisol Face" real or just social media marketing?
    01:23 - The daily "dance" of cortisol: Morning spikes vs. evening drops
    02:50 - How disrupted cortisol ruins sleep & triggers a domino effect
    04:05 - The link between high cortisol, insulin resistance & belly fat
    04:35 - Red flag symptoms vs. everyday stress: Cushing's Syndrome explained 07:37 - Pseudo-Cushing's: How lifestyle choices mimic endocrine disease 08:55 - The Morning Audit: Checking your phone, caffeine & early workouts 09:59 - Debunking the 90-minute morning coffee rule
    11:03 - Soy milk, estrogen, and testosterone levels
    12:24 - Why cortisol causes targeted weight gain in the midsection
    14:20 - Does cortisol "steal" progesterone during perimenopause?
    17:10 - GLP-1 Weight Loss Plateaus: Is cortisol stopping your progress?
    20:17 - The danger of unmonitored online peptides
    21:52 - Why cortisol is the most controversial & misdiagnosed hormone
    25:13 - How high cortisol directly impacts fertility & implantation
    30:46 - The worst time of day to spike your cortisol
    31:45 - Caffeine sensitivity, liver metabolism & the MTHFR gene
    34:47 - Puffy faces, Pilates vs. HIIT & testing cortisol
    39:18 - Where to find Dr. Eva Cwynar & closing thoughts

    Key Topics Covered:
    * The Cortisol Rhythm: Why cortisol is supposed to fluctuate like a "double-humped camel" throughout the day.
    * The 90-Minute Coffee Myth: Why drinking coffee right when you wake up won't ruin your cortisol awakening response.
    * Cushing’s vs. Pseudo-Cushing’s: Physical signs of true hormone excess (buffalo hump, purple stretch marks, facial changes) vs. lifestyle-induced symptoms.
    * GLP-1 Weight Loss Stalls: Why aggressive starvation modes trigger fight-or-flight responses and insulin resistance.
    * Stress & Fertility: How reducing adrenal stress directly alters the uterine implantation environment.

    #Cortisol #HormoneHealth #HealthAndWellness #GLP1 #CortisolFace

    37 min
  3. Is Your Medication Causing Skin Problems?

    Episode 43

    Show notes

    Are GLP-1 medications like Ozempic or prescription drugs triggering sudden skin redness, dryness, or irritation? In this episode of Live + Well, Melissa Magsaysay sits down with skin health practitioner and esthetician Lashelle Ullie to to break down the hidden connection between prescription medications, chronic illness, and your skin barrier.

    Discover why active ingredients like retinol, tretinoin, and AHAs/BHAs might be doing more harm than good for stressed skin, what “Ozempic face” actually is, and how simplifying your skincare routine to 3–4 core steps can restore hydration and balance.

    Key Takeaways & What You’ll Learn

    • Medications & Skin: How GLP-1 drugs, alopecia treatments, and chronic illness impact skin texture and hydration.
    • The Truth About "Ozempic Face": What happens to your facial structure and skin barrier during rapid weight loss or medication changes.
    • Active Ingredient Warnings: When to pause tretinoin, glycolic acid, and heavy exfoliants.
    • Skin Barrier Repair: How to use ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and simple serums to rebuild compromised skin.
    • Less Is More: Why 3–4 targeted steps beat a complex 10-step skincare routine every time.

    Timestamps:
    00:00 How Medications & GLP-1s Affect Your Skin
    03:30 Chronic Illness & Skin Barrier Health
    06:30 Rosacea, Dermatitis & Common Flare-Ups
    08:20 Stop Overcomplicating Your Skincare Routine
    10:30 Why a Simple Skincare Routine Works Better
    11:25 Skincare Strategies for Chronic Conditions
    12:00 Do You Really Need Serums? 13:00 How to Build a Routine You'll Stick To
    15:00 Managing Realistic Skincare Expectations
    17:00 Medication-Induced Skin Changes Explained
    18:20 GLP-1s, Facial Redness & Texture Shift
    19:00 Should You Stop Using Retinol? 20:00 How to Fix a Compromised Skin Barrier
    24:00 The Body-Skin Health Connection
    25:00 Hair Loss / Alopecia Medications & Skin Side Effects
    28:00 Hyperpigmentation & Drug Side Effects
    29:30 What Is "Ozempic Face"?
    32:30 Best Ingredients for Sensitive & Stressed Skin
    33:00 Professional Skin Treatments vs. Hydration 35:30 Why "Age Management" Replaces Anti-Aging
    36:00 Ingredients to Avoid When Your Skin Barrier Is Damaged
    40:30 Tretinoin: Overhyped or Worth the Hype?
    42:00 Why Healthy Skin Starts with a Strong Barrier

    #OzempicFace #SkincareRoutine #Retinol #SensitiveSkin #GLP1

    44 min
  4. Can a Plant Extract Trigger GLP-1 & Stop Food Noise?

    Episode 42

    Show notes

    Can a plant-based hops extract naturally trigger GLP-1, CCK, and PYY to curb appetite and stop food noise? Calocurb CEO Sarah Kennedy joins Melissa Magsaysay on Live + Well to break down the science of natural appetite control and perimenopause weight management.

    CHAPTERS:
    00:00 The Plant-Based Supplement Being Compared to GLP-1s
    01:01 How Calocurb Was Developed
    02:52 Why We Have Bitter Taste Receptors in the Gut
    05:04 How Hops Extract May Affect Appetite Hormones
    05:47 What the Early Clinical Research Found
    07:09 How and When Calocurb Is Taken
    08:18 How It Differs From Other Weight Loss Supplements
    11:16 Calocurb vs. Prescription GLP-1s (Ozempic/Wegovy)
    12:08 What the Weight Loss Trial Found
    13:42 Appetite Hormones, Fat Loss, and Muscle
    14:13 Why Hunger Isn’t Just About Willpower
    16:10 Late-Night Snacking and Food Cravings
    19:17 How Practitioners Are Using Calocurb
    20:09 What Happens When You Stop a GLP-1? (Rebound Hunger)
    21:04 GLP-1 Microdosing and Midlife Weight
    22:03 Menopause, Metabolism, and Visceral Fat
    23:21 Can Calocurb Help After Stopping a GLP-1?
    24:37 Potential Side Effects
    25:37 GLP-1s, Weight Loss, and Diet Culture
    28:12 Why GLP-1s Changed the Willpower Conversation
    29:49 Why People Talk About “Food Noise”
    32:31 Is Taking a GLP-1 a Shortcut?
    35:00 What “Natural” Means in the Supplement Industry
    37:21 The Clinical Trials on Hunger and Cravings
    38:17 Why Researchers Studied Women Separately
    41:02 Who Should Avoid Calocurb?
    41:28 Can You Take Calocurb With a GLP-1?
    43:09 Does Drinking Beer Have the Same Effect as Hops Extract?
    44:23 Cost and Accessibility
    46:15 The Connection Between Appetite and Food Noise
    47:16 Could It Affect Alcohol Cravings?
    49:46 What Calocurb Is Studying Next

    IN THIS EPISODE, YOU'S LEARN:
    • How hops-derived extract stimulates natural appetite hormones (GLP-1, CCK, PYY)
    • What "food noise" is and why hunger is controlled by biology, not willpower
    • What happens when stopping prescription GLP-1 medications like Ozempic or Wegovy
    • How perimenopause and menopause impact metabolism, body composition, and weight
    • Clinical findings on Calocurb, side effects, and who should consult a doctor first

    DISCLAIMER:
    This episode is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or stopping any prescription medication or supplement routine.

    #GLP1 #Calocurb #WeightLoss #FoodNoise #NaturalGLP1

    46 min
  5. An Eye Doctor Explains the Everyday Habits Hurting Your Eyes

    Episode 41

    Show notes

    Ophthalmologist and eye surgeon Dr. Dagny Zhu breaks down what screen time is really doing to your eyes — from digital eye strain and dry eyes to myopia, headaches, blue light and changes in vision after 40.

    In this episode of Live + Well, Dr. Zhu joins Melissa Magsaysay to separate eye health fact from hype. She explains the 20-20-20 rule for screen breaks, why she tells patients not to rub their eyes, whether blue light glasses and eye supplements actually work, and what you should know about reading glasses, LASIK and popular eye drops.

    She also weighs in on viral eye color change surgery and explains why some redness-relief drops can actually make red eyes worse. And one of the biggest misconceptions about eye health? Having 20/20 vision doesn't necessarily mean your eyes are healthy. Dr. Zhu explains how routine eye exams can sometimes uncover serious conditions before you notice changes in your vision.

    You’ll learn:
    * How screen time affects your eyes
    * Why myopia is becoming more common
    * The 20-20-20 rule for digital eye strain
    * Whether blue light glasses actually work
    * Why you shouldn't aggressively rub your eyes
    * What happens to your vision after 40
    * The risks of eye color change surgery
    * Why some eye-whitening drops can cause rebound redness
    * What your eyes can reveal about your overall health

    By the end of this conversation, you may think differently about what it means to have healthy eyes.

    In this episode:
    00:00 Why Myopia Is Increasing Around the World 03:03 Why Eye Health Has Been Overlooked 05:09 Can You Prevent Nearsightedness in Kids? 07:51 How Screen Time Affects Your Eyes 09:19 What Red, Dry Eyes May Be Telling You 10:07 Why You Should Never Rub Your Eyes 11:59 Are Eye Massages Safe? 15:05 Digital Eye Strain and the 20-20-20 Rule 16:35 When Do You Actually Need Reading Glasses? 17:19 Eye Drops That Can Help You Read Up Close 19:28 Why Eye Strain Can Trigger Headaches 21:27 How Far Away Should Your Screen Be? 24:44 Screen Time Before Bed and Blue Light 25:41 Do Blue Light Glasses Actually Work? 27:58 Do Eye Supplements Work? 29:14 The Risks of Eye Color Change Surgery 34:38 Are Eye-Whitening Drops Safe? 35:37 Why Eye Doctors Hate Visine 36:23 Eye Drops That Temporarily Lift Your Eyelids 37:53 Why 20/20 Vision Doesn't Mean Your Eyes Are Healthy 38:58 Why You Still Need an Annual Eye Exam 41:03 What Your Eyes Can Reveal About Your Overall Health 42:35 Blurry Vision, Headaches and When to Get Checked 43:45 Why Sunglasses Are “SPF for Your Eyes”

    #EyeHealth #ScreenTime #EyeStrain #Myopia #BlueLight

    46 min
  6. Bobbi Brown Exposes TikTok Beauty Trends That Ruin Your Face — and Products That Actually Work

    Episode 40

    Show notes

    Bobbi Brown, legendary makeup artist and founder of Jones Road Beauty, gets candid about aging, makeup after 40, injectables, beauty trends, foundation mistakes, TikTok beauty advice, and what the beauty industry still gets wrong about women’s faces.

    In this episode of Live + Well, Bobbi Brown joins Melissa Magsaysay to talk about Jones Road, her new memoir “Still Bobbi,” and the beauty philosophy that has defined her career: Makeup should make you look more like yourself… not transform you into someone else.

    For more than 30 years, Bobbi has challenged one of the beauty industry’s most persistent messages: that there’s something about your face that needs to be fixed. But in an era of filters, FaceTune, injectables, contouring, and endless before-and-afters, has that pressure actually gotten worse? And what happens when the pursuit of looking “better” starts making your own face feel unfamiliar?

    Bobbi gets candid about the beauty trends she wishes would disappear, her feelings about injectables, why she hates hearing that someone looks “good for their age,” and what women are getting wrong about foundation, concealer, and makeup after 40. And after building Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, selling the company to Estée Lauder, Bobbi launched Jones Road in her 60s — bringing with her everything she had learned about beauty, business, and what she never wanted to do again. And she has a different perspective on the idea that women who start something new later in life are “reinventing” themselves.

    You’ll learn:
    - Why Bobbi Brown believes the beauty industry has historically profited from women’s insecurities
    -The beauty trend she wishes would disappear
    -Why she thinks we should stop telling women they look “good for their age”
    -How to actually find the right foundation shade for your skin
    -The concealer mistake she sees people making on TikTok

    By the end of this conversation, you may think differently about beauty, aging, and what it actually means to look good at any age. Because after decades in an industry built around transformation, Bobbi Brown’s beauty advice remains remarkably consistent.

    In this episode:
    01:00 How the Beauty Industry Profits From Insecurity
    02:27 Filters, FaceTune and Changing Your Face
    04:29 Bobbi Brown on Lasers and Cosmetic Treatments
    07:42 How to Find the Right Foundation Shade
    11:15 Creating Inclusive Foundation Shades
    14:34 Bobbi Brown on Aging and “Looking Good for Your Age”
    16:06 Why Getting Older Can Be Freeing
    21:15 Clean Beauty and Formulating Jones Road
    26:10 Writing “Still Bobbi”
    28:03 Bobbi Brown’s Beauty Hot Takes
    28:09 The Beauty Trend She Wants to Disappear
    28:14 Her Take on Injectables
    28:22 The Beauty Rule Women Over 40 Should Ignore
    28:32 What TikTok Gets Wrong About Makeup
    29:48 Bobbi’s Best Beauty Advice

    Check out Live + Well for more conversations about beauty, wellness, longevity, fitness, and what it means to live well.

    #BobbiBrown #JonesRoad #Makeup #Beauty #MakeupTips

    33 min
  7. Sleepmaxxing, Orthosomnia & the Truth About Sleep Trackers | Dr. Michael Breus (The Sleep Doctor)

    Episode 39

    Show notes

    Is "sleepmaxxing" actually wrecking your sleep? Clinical psychologist and sleep specialist Dr. Michael Breus, aka "The Sleep Doctor” breaks down the biggest sleep trends taking over social media and why most of them are overcomplicating something your body already knows how to do.

    In this episode, Dr. Breus explains why sleep became a $90 billion industry, what's actually going on with viral trends like the Sleepy Girl Mocktail and mouth taping, and how obsessive tracker-checking can trigger orthosomnia (sleep anxiety caused by wearable data). We also dig into new research on the Apollo Neuro wearable, magnesium and melatonin supplements, why women's sleep research has lagged behind men's, sleep divorce vs. "sleep upgrades," chronotypes (are you a lion, bear, wolf, or dolphin?), and the 5 simple habits that fix sleep for almost everyone.

    In this episode:
    00:00 – Meet Dr. Michael Breus, "The Sleep Doctor"
    00:18 – How sleep became a $90B wellness industry
    02:37 – The rise of sleep trackers and wearables
    03:57 – What is "sleepmaxxing"?
    05:03 – The truth about the Sleepy Girl Mocktail
    07:12 – What is orthosomnia?
    09:16 – How often should you actually check your sleep tracker?
    11:43 – Why sleep research has failed women
    12:50 – Menstrual cycle, pregnancy, perimenopause & sleep
    13:37 – Sleep apnea looks different in women
    14:38 – New data on the Apollo Neuro wearable
    20:24 – Magnesium glycinate vs. threonate — do you need it?
    22:54 – The melatonin backlash (and why kids shouldn't take it)
    26:04 – How to help kids who won't sleep
    28:55 – Sleep divorce vs. "sleep upgrade"
    33:09 – Chronotypes explained: lion, bear, wolf, or dolphin?
    36:52 – Blue light is a myth — here's what actually keeps you up
    38:31 – The 3 things your body needs to sleep
    41:35 – Dr. Breus's 5-step sleep reset routine

    About Dr. Michael Breus:
    Dr. Michael Breus is a clinical psychologist, sleep specialist, and bestselling author of The Power of When and Sleep, Drink, Breathe. He hosts the podcast Better in Bed with the Sleep Doctor and shares sleep education across YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok as @thesleepdoctor
    🔗 https://sleepdoctor.com/

    #Sleepmaxxing #Orthosomnia #SleepDoctor #SleepHygiene #SleepScience #Chronotype

    45 min
  8. More Men Are Getting Penis Filler and Urologists Say Demand Is Surging

    Episode 38

    Show notes

    Are penile fillers and cosmetic urology becoming the new Botox for men? In this episode, host Melissa Magsaysay sits down with board-certified urologists Dr. David Miller and Dr. Joshua Gonzalez to clear up the myths around non-surgical girth enhancement, PhalloFill, and hyaluronic acid fillers.

    From scrotal Botox and procedural safety to tackling body dysmorphia and setting realistic anatomical expectations, we break down what is driving today's men's aesthetic optimization movement. Plus, our guests explain how an initial aesthetic consultation often serves as a vital gateway to essential preventative health care.

    CHAPTERS / TIMESTAMPS:
    00:00 - Introduction to Cosmetic Urology
    00:36 - What is Cosmetic Urology?
    01:27 - The Optimization Movement: TRT, Peptides, & Aesthetic Procedures
    03:10 - Beyond Size: Shape, Scrotal Botox, & Scrotal Webbing
    05:08 - The "Botox Era" for Men: Why Hyaluronic Acid Is a Game-Changer
    08:05 - Tackling Body Dysmorphia & Normalizing Anatomical Expectations
    10:00 - Real Numbers: Average Penile Length vs. Online Myths
    11:40 - The "Brad Pitt" Standard: Do Patients Bring Celebrity References?
    14:08 - Expectation vs. Reality: Symmetrical, Natural Results
    15:10 - Why Urologists Double as Professional Listeners & Therapists
    16:40 - Aesthetics vs. Sexual Function: Does Filler Improve Performance?
    18:41 - Patient Demographics: Who Is Getting Aesthetic Penile Procedures?
    20:41 - How the PhalloFill Procedure Works (Numbing, Placement, & Comfort)
    22:19 - Permanent Implants vs. Reversible Hyaluronic Acid Fillers
    23:37 - Why Injecting Belongs in the Hands of Trained Urologists
    24:56 - Safety Protocols, Aftercare, & Reversibility Options
    27:19 - How Long Do Penile Fillers Actually Last?
    29:05 - The Surge in Demand & Media Stories Driving the Trend
    31:16 - Risks & Choosing the Right Specialist
    33:16 - Cosmetic Urology as a Gateway to Preventative Men's Health

    CONNECT WITH OUR GUESTS:

    Dr. Joshua Gonzalez
    Website: https://joshuagonzalezmd.com/
    Instagram, TikTok & YouTube: @joshuagonzalezmd
    Dr. David Miller
    Website: https://www.davidtmillermd.com/

    38 min
  9. What’s Really Inside Your Mattress?

    Episode 37

    Show notes

    Are you sleeping on 20 gallons of crude oil? In this episode we peel back the covers on the "clean sleep" movement to reveal what's hiding inside many conventional mattresses.

    Arin Schultz, Chief Growth Officer at Naturepedic explains how conventional bedding affects your health, how to spot greenwashing, and how hand-crafted, organic materials can transform your sleep quality.

    In this episode, we discuss:

    * Why conventional mattresses are loaded with crude oil, off-gassing chemicals, and flame retardants—and how they contribute to night sweats, headaches, and allergies.

    * What terms like "natural" and "eco" actually mean, and why certifiers like GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) and EWG Verified matter.

    * How to tailor firmness levels for couples, adjust support through pregnancy, and refresh your mattress layers over time.

    * Practical, step-by-step advice for choosing organic sheets, temperature-regulating wool, shredded latex pillows, and low-VOC bedroom materials.

    Timestamps:

    * 00:00 – What is Clean Sleep?

    * 02:16 – Crude Oil & Chemicals in Conventional Beds

    * 03:37 – Chemical Off-Gassing vs. Natural Material Scents

    * 05:11 – Greenwashing, GOTS Certification & EWG

    * 07:28 – Are Mattress Covers Enough?

    * 09:40 – Temperature Regulation: Wool vs. Polyurethane Foam

    * 10:28 – Modular Design & Customizing Firmness for Partners

    * 12:12 – Can Nontoxic Mattresses Still Feel Like a Cloud?

    * 18:14 – Navigating Sleep & Comfort During Pregnancy

    * 20:35 – Combatting Allergies & Dealing with Unregulated Chemicals

    * 23:12 – Fighting for Safer Industry Standards

    * 27:03 – The Truth About Flame Retardants & Non-Toxic Flammability Testing

    * 30:00 – Upgrading Your Pillows, Sheets & Bedroom Air Quality

    Learn More:

    https://www.naturepedic.com

    #CleanSleep #OrganicMattress #NonToxicMattress #Naturepedic #SleepHygiene

    27 min
  10. Is the Burden of Infertility on the Wrong Partner?

    Episode 36

    Show notes

    Did you know that male factor fertility contributes to up to 50% of conception challenges and miscarriages? In this episode of the Live + Well podcast, we sit down with Ronit Menashe (Co-Founder of WeNatal) and Dr. James Weinberger (Reproductive Urologist) to break down the critical, yet often overlooked, role sperm health plays in family planning.

    We dive deep into Trimester Zero — the crucial 70 to 90-day window where sperm regenerates. Learn how targeted lifestyle shifts, antioxidant supplementation, and advanced diagnostics like Sperm DNA Fragmentation (DFI) can drastically improve fertility outcomes for couples.

    KEY TIMESTAMPS

    * 00:00 – Rethinking the 50/50 Fertility Responsibility

    * 01:00 – Ronit Menashe’s Story: Miscarriage, Research, and Founding WeNatal

    * 04:00 – Dr. James Weinberger: Shifting the Male Fertility Paradigm

    * 06:00 – Can You Reverse Sperm Damage? The 90-Day Regeneration Cycle

    * 09:30 – Sperm Quality as the 6th Vital Sign for Male Health

    * 10:30 – Semen Analysis vs. Sperm DNA Fragmentation (DFI) Testing

    * 13:00 – Insurance Coverage & Changing Male Fertility Care

    * 16:00 – Myth Busting: Hot Tubs, Saunas, Seat Warmers, and Briefs

    * 18:00 – Male Age-Related Decline & Long-Term Health Risks

    * 20:30 – At-Home Sperm Testing Kits: Are They Worth It?

    * 22:30 – Trimester Zero: How Couples Can Prepare Together

    * 24:00 – Fertility Blockers vs. Fertility Boosters

    * 27:30 – Epigenetics: How Lifestyle Choices Affect Your Future Child’s Health

    * 33:00 – Actionable First Steps Before Trying to Conceive

    * 41:40 – The Truth About NAD+, CoQ10, and Fertility Supplements

    GUESTS & RESOURCES

    * WeNatal: https://wenatal.com/ | Instagram: [@we_natal]

    * Dr. James Weinberger / Reproductive Partners Medical Group: https://male-fertility.reproductivepartners.com/meet-dr-james-weinberger/dr-james-weinberger

    #Fertility #MaleFertility #IVF #TrimesterZero #Infertility

    41 min
  11. Trauma & Stress Get Trapped in Your Fascia

    Episode 35

    Show notes

    Garry Lineham, co-founder of Human Garage reveals how physical and emotional trauma get trapped in your fascia, and how simple counter-rotation maneuvers can reset your nervous system in minutes.

    In this episode, we explore the fascinating science of fascia: the bioelectric, intelligent connective tissue that holds your entire body together. Garry shares his personal journey from decades of chronic pain to discovering self-healing fascia maneuvers that unlock deep physical tension and calm emotional overload.

    Key Topics Covered in This Episode:

    * What is fascia? Why science is reclassifying fascia as an intelligent, bioelectric organ.

    * Where trauma lives: How physical injury, emotional stress, and mental narratives accumulate in tissue.

    * Live fascia reset demo: A quick counter-rotation movement that opens up the shoulders, hips, and diaphragm.

    * The jaw & stress connection: Why clenching your jaw locks your entire body into fight-or-flight mode.

    * Rapid-fire problem solving: Fascia perspectives on vertigo, 2 AM leg cramps, post-meal bloating, and tight hamstrings.

    * True hydration: Why drinking a gallon of water isn't enough and how minerals and silica hydrate fascia properly.

    Timestamps:

    00:00 - Introduction to Garry Lineham & Human Garage

    00:30 - Garry’s Journey: From Chronic Pain to Healing

    01:19 - Live Demo: Counter-Rotation Shoulder & Hip Reset

    03:32 - How Resetting Fascia Changes Energy & Breathing

    07:00 - Why Surgeons No Longer Cut Fascia Indiscriminately

    08:45 - What "Bioelectric System" Feels Like in the Body

    10:30 - Is Life Stressful, or Is Your Jaw Just Tight?

    15:58 - Defining Trauma: Incidents, Emotions, and Narratives

    20:56 - Working with Elite Athletes (Novak Djokovic)

    22:05 - Why Traditional Treatments Often Fail Long-Term

    24:45 - The Power of Counter-Rotation Movements

    27:55 - Overcoming Chronic Stress, Drugs, & PTSD

    30:28 - Rapid Fire: Sudden Vertigo

    31:00 - Rapid Fire: Waking Up at 2 AM with Leg Cramps

    31:35 - Rapid Fire: Immediate Bloating After Eating (Psoas Release)

    32:56 - Rapid Fire: Hamstrings That Stay Tight

    33:28 - Dehydration, Minerals, and the Wi-Fi Effect on Fascia

    Connect with Human Garage:

    Website: https://www.humangarage.net/ Instagram: @humangarage YouTube: @HumanGarage TikTok: @humangarage

    #Fascia #FasciaRelease #HumanGarage #SomaticHealing #ChronicPainRelief

    36 min
  12. Why Your Diet Could Be Failing (Try This First)

    Episode 34

    Show notes

    This is a sponsored episode, paid for by BIOptimzers, and does not involve the L.A. Times Newsroom.

    Are you doing "everything right" with your diet, but still struggling with low energy, sluggish digestion, brain fog, or poor recovery?

    In this episode of Live & Well, Wade Lightheart, co-founder of BIOptimizers, exercise physiologist, and former 3x Canadian Natural Bodybuilding Champions shares why most dietary strategies fall short and what core cellular habits actually drive long-term health.

    In this video, you’ll discover:

    • Why standard diets don’t always deliver results.

    • Wade Lightheart's 7-part "AWESOME" formula for cellular longevity.

    • How gut degradation and age affect your ability to absorb key nutrients.

    • Why muscle mass is your most critical organ for aging well and burning calories.

    • The role of genetic testing and DEXA scans in cutting through health confusion.

    CHAPTERS:

    00:00 - Why Your Diet Might Be Failing You

    01:02 - Wade Lightheart's Personal Journey & Biohacking Origins

    03:45 - What Competitive Bodybuilding Teaches About Raw Reality

    07:33 - The 7-Step "AWESOME" Longevity Formula 12:16 - Bodybuilders as the Original Biohackers 14:48 - Genetic Testing & DEXA Scans

    20:45 - The Founding of BiOptimizers

    23:04 - Trace Minerals, Electrical Frequency & Cellular Energy

    24:18 - The Truth About Magnesium

    27:24 - Why Digestion Declines with Age & How to Restore Absorption

    35:15 - Cellular Health, Mitochondria & Bioavailable Supplements

    #Longevity #GutHealth #NutritionTips #AntiAging #Biohacking #CellularHealth

    Head to https://bioptimizers.com/livewell and use code LIVEWELL for 15% off your order. You'll also unlock exclusive discounts, surprise bonuses, and special offers available to listeners. Plus, every order is backed by a 365-day money-back guarantee.

    45 min
  13. Kids' Skincare Isn't What Most Parents Think

    Episode 33

    Show notes

    Is kid's skincare actually necessary or is it a social media trend that should be ignored? In this episode of Live & Well, we sit down with Esther Song, fashion veteran and co-founder of Rini (alongside Shay Mitchell), to discuss the real science behind children's skin health.

    Esther shares her journey from fashion executive to CPG founder after searching for clean, effective solutions for her daughter’s severe eczema. We dive deep into Korean bathhouse culture, why children's skin barriers are thinner than adults, the crucial difference between "unscented" and "fragrance-free," and how Rini is bringing K-beauty innovation into daily care and bath time for kids.

    IN THIS EPISODE, WE COVER:

    • The truth about kids skincare vs. adult skincare routines

    • How growing up in Korea influenced Esther’s approach to skin health

    • Why a child's skin barrier is 30% thinner and more vulnerable

    • Fragrance-Free vs. Unscented: What parents must look for on product labels

    • Rini’s clinical testing standard: Pediatrician-tested vs. dermatologist-tested

    • How to address eczema, dry skin, and post-pool skin protection

    TIMESTAMPS

    00:00 - Introduction: Kids Skincare vs. Bath Time

    00:58 - Esther Song’s Journey & Founding Rini with Shay Mitchell

    02:54 - Growing Up in Korea & K-Beauty Bathhouse Culture

    04:15 - What K-Beauty Really Means: Skin Barrier Protection

    06:06 - The 3 Stages of a Child's Skin Barrier Development

    08:18 - Replenishing Lost Amino Acids in Kids' Skin 08:50 - Fragrance-Free vs. Unscented: What Parents Need to Know

    11:05 - Addressing the "Sephora Kids" Trend & Internet Backlash

    12:28 - Fun Meets Function: Clean Face Crayons & Hydrogel Masks 16:07 - Navigating Eczema, Cortisone, and Barrier Creams

    17:29 - Rini's Testing Process: Pediatricians, Toxicologists & Raw Ingredients

    22:01 - Making Bath Time Fun & Stress-Free for Parents

    24:20 - Customer Hacks: Using Hydrogel Masks for Fevers & Sunburns

    27:45 - Why K-Beauty Innovation is More Accessible & Affordable

    29:29 - Where the Name "Rini" Comes From

    #KBeauty #ShayMitchell #Parenting #KidsSkincare #SkinBarrier #Skincare

    30 min
  14. Peptides Explained | BPC-157, Tesamorelin & What Works

    Episode 32

    Show notes

    What are peptides, and why is everyone talking about them? From fitness influencers and biohackers to Beverly Hills clinics and Hollywood anti-aging routines, peptide therapy has taken the wellness world by storm.

    In this episode of ‘Live & Well’, board-certified family physician and longevity medicine specialist Dr. Daniel Ghiyam breaks down what peptides actually are, how they signal the body, and where the evidence really stands on BPC-157, Tesamorelin, GLP-1s, GHK-Cu, MOTS-c.

    We cut through the noise to discuss:

    • The "text message" analogy for understanding peptide cellular signaling

    • The truth about BPC-157 for tendon, gut, and tissue recovery

    • Tesamorelin and Growth Hormone secretagogues for fat loss and muscle

    • Why GLP-1 weight loss drugs sparked today's massive peptide craze

    • The serious dangers of buying "research use only" peptides online

    CHAPTERS & TIMESTAMPS

    01:14 - What Is a Peptide? (The Text Message Analogy)

    03:54 - How Aging Affects Body Signaling & Cellular Repair

    04:40 - The Danger of DIY Injections & Unmonitored Biohacking

    07:00 - Understanding FDA Approvals vs Off-Label Peptides

    11:20 - Did GLP-1s Spark Today's Peptide Craze?

    12:50 - Preserving Muscle Engine During Weight Loss

    15:28 - BPC-157 Deep Dive - Evidence & Stomach Acid Origins

    18:50 - GHK-Cu Copper Peptides for Skin, Collagen & Hair Growth

    22:50 - PT-141 & Tanning Peptides - The Story Behind Melanotan

    25:12 - Dr. Ghiyam’s 3 Pillars of Health & Longevity

    26:25 - Tesamorelin & Growth Hormone Secretagogues Explained

    33:20 - Regulatory Gray Market & Compounding Pharmacies

    38:55 - The Risks of Buying Online Peptides (Impurity & Fake Batches)

    41:25 - MOTS-c - The Exercise Mimetic Peptide

    KEY TOPICS COVERED

    • Peptides 101 - Short amino acid chains (under 50) that act as direct chemical signaling messengers between organs and cells.

    • Tesamorelin & Growth Hormone Secretagogues - How FDA-approved Tesamorelin stimulates natural pituitary output to reduce visceral fat while preserving lean muscle mass.

    • Human Clinical Data vs. Mouse Data - Why rodent studies on popular repair compounds like BPC-157 do not immediately guarantee human outcomes.

    • The Gray Market Danger - Risks of ordering unverified "research chemicals" online using cryptocurrency, including sterile contamination, improper storage, degradation, or placebo sugar pills.

    • Comprehensive Longevity - Why peptide protocols must be layered on top of sleep hygiene, stress management, and resistance training.

    GUEST INFORMATION

    Dr. Daniel Ghiyam is a board-certified family physician with over 25 years of clinical experience. He is the co-founder and Medical Director of MedPodLA, a concierge longevity and performance medicine practice based in Beverly Hills, California.

    https://medpodla.com/

    ⚠️ DISCLAIMER

    The information provided in this video is strictly for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before beginning any peptide therapy, supplement regimen, or longevity protocol.

    #Peptides #BPC157 #Tesamorelin #GLP1 #Longevity #Biohacking #AntiAging

    42 min
  15. Menopause & Intimate Wellness Boom: From Taboo to Big Business

    Episode 31

    Show notes

    Vaginal dryness, bladder leaks, painful sex, and postpartum recovery — for decades, these everyday realities were ignored by mainstream medicine and dismissed as “just part of aging.” Today, they represent one of the fastest-growing sectors in healthcare, wellness, and venture capital.

    In this episode, we sit down with two trailblazing CEOs approaching the women’s intimate wellness boom from two distinct angles: Colette Courtion (Founder & CEO of Joylux) and Dawn Halkuff (CEO of LiviWell).

    Together, they break down how they transitioned from personal and professional frustrations into building category-defining businesses, how the “menopause movement” is shifting consumer behavior, and the massive opportunities ahead for founders and investors in Femtech.

    💡 KEY TOPICS COVERED:

    • The Taboo Tax: Why women’s pelvic and intimate health was historically ignored by capital and medicine.

    • Consumer vs. Medical Innovation: How Joylux’s vFit PLUS (red-light therapy) & LiviWell’s FDA-cleared Livi device (post-intercourse fluid absorption) tackle unmet needs.

    • The Halle Berry Partnership: How Joylux teamed up with Halle Berry’s wellness platform, Respin, to normalize midlife intimate health.

    • The Regulatory Path: What FDA clearance means for safety, consumer trust, and commercial scaling.

    • The Future of Femtech: What must catch up, from insurance coverage to provider education, for the intimate wellness market to reach its multi-billion-dollar potential.

    #WomensHealth #Menopause #IntimateWellness #SexualHealth #Femtech

    00:00 Introduction: The women's intimate health boom

    01:28 The personal catalysts: Behind the scenes of postpartum and industry gaps

    12:20 Why now? The convergence of capital, culture, and consumer demand

    16:09 The Viagra disparity: Why men's health got a pill and women got silenced

    22:00 How it works: Red-light therapy and vaginal rejuvenation (Joylux vFit PLUS)

    24:48 Halle Berry partnership with Respin

    28:53 Clinical validation: Introducing Livi, the first FDA-cleared post-sex vaginal care device

    33:53 Combatting the "wellness trend" stigma with hard science

    38:28 Guest-to-guest Q&A and final takeaways

    44 min
  16. Train for Life, Not Just the Gym: Mobility, Stability & Moving for Longevity

    Episode 29

    Show notes

    From carrying groceries to checking your blind spot while driving, life happens in motion — and your workouts should reflect that. Pvolve's Dani Coleman joins Live & Well to share why multidimensional training helps build strength that extends beyond the gym. We talk about mobility as the missing link in fitness, training for longevity, and how small, intentional movement patterns can help you feel stronger, more resilient, and more connected to your body every day.

    34 min
  17. Recovery Isn’t An Afterthought: Moving Through Life with Less Pain and More Ease

    Episode 28

    Show notes

    Most people think recovery happens after the workout. According to Dr. Jason Wersland, that’s the biggest mistake we make.

    On this episode of Live & Well, the Therabody founder & recovery expert explains why recovery should happen before, during, and after movement — not just when you’re already sore. From activating the nervous system before exercise to reducing burnout and speeding up rebound between sets, Dr. J breaks down how elite athletes use recovery as part of performance itself.

    He also shares the science behind pain relief, nervous system regulation, blood flow, and why staying ahead of soreness can help prevent injuries, improve mobility, and keep your body performing at its best. Whether you’re training hard or just trying to move without pain, this episode will change the way you think about recovery.

    48 min
  18. Commit to Less, Show Up More: Joyful Movement & Fitness for Every Life Stage

    Episode 27

    Show notes

    What if the secret to getting stronger wasn’t doing more—but doing less, consistently? In this episode of Live and Well, Melissa Magsaysay sits down with Sculpt Society founder Megan Roup to unpack a refreshing, sustainable approach to fitness that actually works.

    From her early struggles with body image and the pressures of the dance world to building a global fitness platform, Megan shares how she redefined movement as something joyful, inclusive, and empowering—not punishing. The conversation dives into why extreme workouts and “all-or-nothing” mindsets often backfire, and how shorter, well-programmed workouts can be more effective for long-term results.

    They also explore how fitness needs evolve across life stages—from your 20s to pregnancy, postpartum, and midlife—and why the industry is finally starting to acknowledge conversations around perimenopause, hormones, and women’s health. Megan breaks down common misconceptions around strength training, low-impact workouts, and the idea that you have to be drenched in sweat for a workout to “count.”

    If you’ve ever struggled to stay motivated, felt intimidated by fitness trends, or wondered how to create a routine that actually sticks—this episode is your permission slip to simplify.

    37 min
  19. The Future of Facial Rejuvenation: Fillers or Fat Transfer?

    Episode 26

    Show notes

    What if the future of facial rejuvenation isn’t synthetic—but your own biology? In this episode of Live and Well, we sit down with renowned facial plastic surgeon Dr. Paul Nassif to break down the rising shift from traditional fillers to micro fat transfer.

    Known for his precision work and complex revision cases (and as a star of Botched), Dr. Nassif explains why more experts are rethinking long-term use of fillers—from migration to hidden scar tissue—and how these trends are shaping the next era of aesthetics.

    Dr. Nassif also unpacks the nuances between micro fat and nano fat, where and how fat is placed in the face, and what really happens as your body ages, loses volume, or changes with weight fluctuations.

    Whether you’re filler-curious, considering facial rejuvenation, or just want to understand what’s actually happening beneath the skin, this episode delivers a clear, expert-led look at where beauty—and science—are headed next.

    32 min
  20. The Hair Growth Breakthrough: Inside the Peptide Revolution

    Episode 25

    Show notes

    Hair loss, thinning, breakage—what’s really going on beneath the surface? In this episode of Live and Well, host Melissa Magsaysay sits down with OMI founder Naomi Whittel to unpack the science of hair health and why peptides are emerging as a game-changing solution. From the biology of hair follicles to the role of stress, hormones, and aging, Naomi shares how a patented keratin peptide is helping women retain more hair, grow it longer, and rethink beauty from the inside out.

    They dive into the difference between supplements, pharmaceuticals, and peptide technology, the truth about topical treatments, and why hair is one of the clearest signals of overall health. Plus, a candid conversation on women’s health, hormone shifts, and why the future of wellness is deeply personal—and data-driven.

    If you’ve ever wondered why your hair won’t grow past a certain length or how to actually support it at the root, this episode is your new starting point.

    40 min