This Healthy Life

MEET THE GUEST

Dr. Chelsea Azarcon, NMD, helps women uncover the hidden reasons behind chronic illness. After years as a patient searching for answers at top institutions like Mayo Clinic and UCLA Health, she became the doctor she needed, turning to integrative medicine when conventional care fell short. Today she helps women identify overlooked drivers of chronic symptoms, from Lyme disease and mold toxicity to MCAS, autoimmune conditions, and nervous system dysregulation. A Cornell-trained biologist with a doctorate from Bastyr University, she also explores the link between trauma and physical healing in her book, Losing You, Finding Me. She's the founder of Restore Naturopathic Medicine.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT

• Integrative medicine as a bridge between conventional and natural treatment approaches
• Personal history with chronic illness shaping a root-cause approach to primary care
• Intake process built around a patient's full symptom history rather than a snapshot
• Tick-borne illness rates in California despite common assumptions about endemic regions
• Tick bite detection challenges, including painless bites and missed rash presentation
• Common co-infections seen alongside Lyme, including Bartonella, Babesia, and strep
• SOT / RNA-based therapy as an alternative to long-term antibiotic protocols
• Silencing RNA therapy targeting infection replication without triggering a kill response
• Addressing biofilm and dormant infection forms as part of treatment preparation
• Candidacy considerations and limitations for SOT / RNA-based infection therapy
• Typical treatment timelines and strain-specific dosing for tick-borne infections
• Lab testing approaches, from antibody panels to intracellular PCR and T-cell testing
• Cancer viewed through the lens of chronic illness and immune dysregulation
• The tumor microenvironment and its role in cancer cell development
• Circulating tumor cell testing as an early detection tool ahead of imaging
• Using circulating tumor cell response to guide chemotherapy and natural treatment choices
• Mast cell activation syndrome and its connection to immune dysregulation
• Mast cell stabilization strategies, from supplements to antihistamines to cellular support
• Mold exposure as an underrecognized trigger for mast cell activation
• COVID and long COVID's impact on the immune, neurological, and vascular systems
• Mitochondrial health's role in resolving chronic mast cell activation
• Advances in chronic illness treatment and diagnosis over the past decade

EPISODE RESOURCES

Molekule

Air purification support for mold and airborne triggers common in chronic illness environments.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/molekule

BodyBio

Cellular membrane support for better nutrient absorption and detox. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH and save 15%.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/BodyBio

Somavedic

Supports a calmer environment for immune and nervous system balance. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH and save 10%.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/somavedic

Vital Choice Seafood

Wild-caught seafood offering clean protein and anti-inflammatory support. Save 5% on your first order with code 1VCAF5.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/VitalChoiceSeafood

Bonafide Provisions

Bone broth supporting gut healing, a root cause often addressed in chronic illness recovery. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH15 and save 15%.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/BonafideProvisions

ImmunoLytics

At-home mold testing with lab analysis, identifying the environmental triggers behind chronic illness.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Immunolytics

CONNECT WITH THE GUEST

Website:

https://www.chelseaazarcon.com/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/naturallydrchelsea

TikTok:

https://www.tiktok.com/@naturallydrchelsea

KEYWORDS

chronic illness, Lyme disease, tick-borne illness, mast cell activation syndrome, MCAS, mold toxicity, integrative medicine, co-infections, autoimmune conditions, long COVID, cancer support, RNA therapy

MEET THE GUEST

Dr. Adeel Khan is a physician-scientist, regenerative medicine pioneer, and CEO & Co-founder of Eterna Health, where he's advancing the future of longevity and cell-based therapies. His work has helped shape the field of regenerative medicine, and he has treated everyone from elite athletes and business leaders to complex chronic illness patients. Passionate about challenging conventional medicine, Dr. Khan is dedicated to developing innovative therapies that help people heal, perform better, and live longer.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT

- Dr. Adeel Khan is a sports medicine doctor who became focused on regenerative medicine through PRP and stem-cell research.

- His goal is to help restore the body to a healthier, more youthful state.

- Mesenchymal “stem cells” are better described as medicinal signaling cells.

- These cells can reduce inflammation and support healing.

- Muse cells are a rare type of mesenchymal cell, making up about 1–2% of the population.

- Muse cells may offer pluripotent-like regenerative potential without the same tumor concerns associated with iPSCs.

- They may help repair damaged tissue and develop into different cell types.

- Muse cells are less widely used because they are rare and harder to isolate.

- Business interests, patents, and manufacturing costs may also affect which therapies clinics offer.

- Muse cells can come from bone marrow or fat tissue.

- Fat-derived Muse cells may have stronger immune-regulating effects.

- Bone-marrow Muse cells currently have more established clinical research.

- Fat-derived Muse cells are easier and less costly to produce because they do not require the same expansion process.

- Excessive cell expansion may increase DNA damage, making cell quality and processing important.

- For autoimmune conditions, Muse cells may help reset the immune system and potentially produce long-term remission.

- For degenerative conditions such as Parkinson’s and aging, repeat treatments may be needed as degeneration continues.

- Dr. Khan says the effects of treatment may decline after approximately 6–12 months.

- Younger people may benefit more from using their own cells, while donor cells avoid the need for harvesting.

- Banking cells while young could preserve youthful cellular characteristics for future treatments.

- Successful regenerative therapy also depends on optimizing sleep, exercise, nutrition, hormones, inflammation, metabolism, gut health, genomics, and proteomics.

EPISODE RESOURCES

Healthgevity Peptides

Peptide therapy designed to support cellular repair, recovery, and healthy aging.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Healthgevity

StemRegen

A daily supplement designed to support your body's natural stem cell activity.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/StemRegen

Genopalate

DNA-based nutrition test that personalizes your diet based on your genetics. Save $10 with code TRAILTOHEALTH.

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Therasage

Support recovery and relaxation with targeted light therapy. Save 10% with code TRAILTOHEALTH.

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Oura Ring

A smart ring that tracks sleep, recovery, and readiness to optimize your body's healing potential.

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CONNECT WITH THE GUEST

Website:

http://eterna.health

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/dr.akhan

https://www.instagram.com/eterna.health

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/dr.akhanofficial

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@theregendoc

LinkedIn:

https://ae.linkedin.com/in/dradeelkhan-md

KEYWORDS

Muse cells, stem cell therapy, regenerative medicine, mesenchymal stem cells, PRP, stem cell banking, anti-aging, Parkinson's treatment, autoimmune healing, longevity

MEET THE GUEST

Deanna Latson is a professional speaker who has spoken at over 800 universities, appeared on live TV, and worked with countless corporate audiences. She built her career making complicated topics simple, engaging, and unforgettable from health and leadership to business and personal growth. She later brought that same skill into the corporate world, becoming a global product and marketing executive and helping scale companies in health, wellness, skincare, supplements, and direct selling.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT

• Most women get “the talk” about periods at 12, but no one explains perimenopause or menopause.
• About 6,000 women enter menopause every day, and many go through it in silence.
• Only five other species go through menopause, all of them whales, including killer whales, belugas and narwhals.
• Symptoms go far beyond hot flashes: brain fog, poor sleep, bloating, thinning hair and skin, joint pain and irritability.
• Falling estrogen also affects the heart and raises the risk of bladder infections that can spread to the kidneys.
• The “3 a.m. club”: hormone-driven sleep disruption that worsens mood, digestion and weight gain.
• Perimenopause can start in your 30s, and doctors often miss early changes in digestion, sleep, skin and energy.
• Get your hormones tested, then retest a few months later, since levels fluctuate.
• This year’s World Menopause Day theme is midlife pain, because lower estrogen changes how we feel pain in our joints and bones.
• Deanna works in the field and still didn’t connect her sudden finger pain to her hormones.
• Anxiety and loss of confidence are common, fueled by a culture that equates menopause with getting old.
• Her advice to her 35-year-old self: learn the symptoms early and be proactive, not reactive.
• Beyond Team HRT and Team Natural, she champions “Team Informed Choice.”
• Interview your OB-GYN. Many aren’t trained in menopause, and it’s okay to switch doctors.
• Black cohosh and red clover started as folk remedies and now have clinical research behind them.
• She+ is a vegan jelly stick designed to be a treat, so it gets taken instead of joining the “supplement morgue.”
• In Immunotec’s consumer trial, over 90% were satisfied and about 78% reported better sleep and mood.
• Standardized herbal extracts cost more but deliver the same level of active compounds every time, and so more consistent results.
• In killer whale pods, females past menopause become the leaders, a reminder that this stage brings wisdom and power.

EPISODE RESOURCES

Immunotec

The makers of She+, a plant-based jelly stick that supports women through perimenopause and menopause.

https://www.immunotec.com/

CONNECT WITH THE GUEST

Website:

https://www.immunotec.com/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/immunotec/

https://www.instagram.com/deannalatson/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/Immunotec/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/immunotec

KEYWORDS

menopause, perimenopause, menopause symptoms, World Menopause Day, hot flashes, brain fog, menopause sleep, hormone health, estrogen, HRT, black cohosh, red clover, natural menopause relief, She+, Immunotec, women’s health, midlife, joint pain, supplements

MEET THE GUEST

Andrew Salisbury, founder and CEO of Purity Coffee, believes healthier coffee is key to wellness, performance, and longevity. Drawing on his experience, he created a meticulous process to make the healthiest coffee. Purity Coffee bridges the gap between coffee's benefits and public perception, advocating for its role in reducing health risks and promoting longevity.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT

• Andrew Salisbury's shift from software and call centers in Latin America to coffee, sparked by his wife's health struggles and disagreements over whether coffee helped or hurt her.
• A dinner with two Vanderbilt Institute of Coffee Studies professors that surfaced coffee's health benefits, including antioxidants and links to lower rates of fatty liver, cirrhosis, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and Alzheimer's.
• 164 million Americans drink coffee daily, largely unaware of its potential health upside.
• Coffee's dual nature: beneficial compounds to maximize, harmful contaminants to avoid.
• Heavy pesticide use in farming, including glyphosate and disulfin, absorbed directly into the cherry and seed.
• Antioxidant levels fluctuate significantly by harvest, region, and farming practice.
• Commodity pricing pays farmers by volume, removing incentive to grow for health benefits.
• Mycotoxin contamination leaves beans looking normal, detectable only through lab testing.
• Only very dark roasts destroy mycotoxins, but darkness also strips out antioxidants.
• Contamination testing costs a few hundred dollars per container, yet almost no company does it.
• Industrial mass-picking mixes ripe and spoiled cherries; mold spreads through a batch like one moldy strawberry infecting a container.
• Some processors spray coffee with water to add weight before shipping, pushing moisture toward legal limits and encouraging mold.
• Only an estimated 20-30% of global coffee is hand-picked to reduce contamination risk.
• Jitters, acid reflux, and nausea often stem from contaminants in low-quality coffee, not caffeine itself.
• Europe enforces stricter mycotoxin limits than the U.S., so substandard lots get redirected to American buyers.
• An ancient Incan biochar method, paired with microlending to farmers, raises chlorogenic acid levels through soil regeneration.
• High-altitude, shade-grown Arabica outperforms lowland Robusta in antioxidants as the plant works harder for sunlight.
• Roast curve chemistry balances acrylamide risk in light roasts against PAH risk in dark roasts while preserving antioxidants.
• Lab partnerships in Portugal and Brazil map roast curves to retain chlorogenic acids without harmful byproducts.
• An estimated 1-2% of coffee industry-wide is tested for mycotoxins, pesticides, and heavy metals.
• The myth that coffee is inherently unhealthy traces to mid-century studies that failed to separate coffee drinking from smoking and heavy drinking.

EPISODE RESOURCES

Purity Coffee

Organic, hand picked coffee lab tested for mold, mycotoxins, and heavy metals. Antioxidant focused roasting. Save 20% first order, code TRAILTOHEALTH.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/PurityCoffee

Portland Syrup

Small batch syrup made with simple, clean ingredients. A natural way to sweeten coffee.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/portlandsyrups

Breville

Brewing equipment for home baristas who care about precision as much as bean quality.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Breville

Almond Cow

Make plant milk at home without additives or fillers. A clean pairing for coffee drinkers. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH to save 10%.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/AlmondCow

Aquasana

Clean filtered water for brewing, free of contaminants that affect taste and quality.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/aquasana

CONNECT WITH THE GUEST

Website:

http://puritycoffee.com/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/purity_coffee/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/mypuritycoffee/

TikTok:

https://www.tiktok.com/@puritycoffee

KEYWORDS

coffee, mold, mycotoxins, antioxidants, chlorogenic acid, clean coffee

MEET THE GUEST

Dr. Beth Westie is a Functional Medicine Practitioner, chiropractor, and best-selling author dedicated to women's hormone health. After her own struggle with ovarian cysts led her beyond birth control to nutrition-based healing, she created the Eat for Your Cycle™ Method. Author of The Female Fat Solution and The Female Menopause Solution, and host of The Female Health Solution Podcast, she's helped thousands of women balance their hormones naturally through her Hormone Foundations Program and speaking engagements.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT

- Dr. Beth Westie's background: grew up on a Minnesota goat farm, former athlete, licensed in acupuncture/Chinese medicine

- Her personal health story: recurring ovarian cysts after her third child, dismissed by conventional medicine, resolved through hormone regulation via Eastern medicine

- Core topic: the "3 AM wake up" and what drives it

- Cortisol's role: normal daily rhythm vs. chronic stress raising nighttime cortisol and triggering alertness

- Blood sugar dips around 2-3 AM causing adrenaline surges that jolt people awake

- Cortisol awakening response and the risk of it spiking too high, then crashing later in the day

- Estrogen/progesterone balance and how luteal-phase (weeks 3-4) progesterone drops affect GABA receptors and sleep depth

- Personal example of strength fluctuating across her cycle due to hormonal shifts

- Using wearables to track sleep and heart rate patterns tied to cycle phases

- The Dutch test (dried urine hormone panel) for assessing hormones, cortisol, neurotransmitters, and nutrients

- Blood testing for glucose, insulin, and A1C, plus continuous glucose monitors

- Thyroid function (TSH, T4, T3, antibodies) and its link to metabolism, detox, and sleep

- Chinese medicine organ clock, with 1-3 AM linked to liver detoxification of hormones

- Chronic stress accumulation ("rocks in a backpack" analogy) and women's tendency to self-neglect

- Resting heart rate benchmarks (under 70 bpm) and how it varies by cycle phase

- Comparing biometric data month-to-month (same cycle day) rather than day-to-day

- Gut health's impact on sleep: poor digestive motility causing overnight bloating and discomfort

- Histamine's connection to hormones: overproduction/poor clearance driving estrogen up in a feedback loop

- Iron/ferritin deficiency as a common nutrient gap affecting overall function

- Personalized, test-based treatment approach rather than one-size-fits-all protocols

- Melatonin and other sleep aids often being the wrong fix when melatonin levels are already sufficient

EPISODE RESOURCES

Oura RingTracks sleep, heart rate, and HRV overnight to show how your cycle affects your rest.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/OuraRing

Function Health

Get lab-tested insight into your thyroid, hormones, blood sugar, and nutrient levels.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/FunctionHealth

Swanwick

Block blue light in the evening to support your natural melatonin and wind down easier. 15% off with code TRAILTOHEALTH.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/swanwick

Thorne

Clinical-grade iron and magnesium to help fill common nutrient gaps that impact energy, hormones, and sleep.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Thorne

BiOptimizers

Support digestion and gut motility to ease overnight bloating. Save 10% with code TRAILTOHEALTH.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/biooptimizer

CONNECT WITH THE GUEST

Website:

http://drbethwestie.com

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/drbethwestie

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/drbethwestie

TikTok:

https://www.tiktok.com/@drbethwestie

YouTube:

www.youtube.com/@drbethwestie.com

KEYWORDS

3am wake up, insomnia, cortisol, blood sugar, hormones, progesterone, estrogen dominance, perimenopause sleep, thyroid, liver detox, histamine, gut health, Dutch test, sleep hormones, women's health

MEET THE GUEST

Dr. Jill Carnahan, Your Functional Medicine Expert®, is dually board-certified and founder of Flatiron Functional Medicine. A survivor of breast cancer, Crohn's, and toxic mold illness, she uncovers root causes through advanced testing and personalized care. Her bestselling memoir Unexpected and documentary Doctor/Patient share her journey. A sought-after speaker, she inspires audiences with science-backed insight, authenticity, and humor.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT

• Bring dust sample kits (ERMI-style, e.g. Immunolytics) on every showing to test surfaces before making an offer.
• Learn visual red flags: warped floorboards, stained ceilings/corners, bathroom tile growth, and stucco type/installation quality.
• Keep a trusted mold inspector on call to do informal walkthroughs before an offer is made.
• Ask sellers pointed questions (dishwasher leaks, shower leaks, etc.); most were surprisingly honest.
• She toured 40+ homes; about 80% had significant mold, even in Colorado's dry climate and in expensive, newer homes.
• Her real question wasn't "is there mold" but "where is it, how fixable, and what will it cost."
• One stucco issue quoted at $250,000+ was a dealbreaker; minor sink/window-well leaks were manageable and budgeted in.
• She went under contract five times, backing out four times after formal inspections revealed major issues.
• Deal-breakers: foundational problems, roof/siding/stucco-wide water intrusion, and oddities like an indoor jacuzzi, versus minor, containable issues like a single leaky sink.
• Sellers sometimes pushed back hard on repair-cost requests, so having a knowledgeable realtor was essential.
• New homes aren't automatically safer: poor drywall/tile installation and off-gassing (formaldehyde, granite) are common, while very old homes carry decades of leak history.
• Her "sweet spot": homes roughly 8 to 15 years old.
• Crawl spaces and long-term single-owners with strong maintenance records are strong positive signals.
• Filing a legitimate mold claim on a past condo made it harder to get new homeowners insurance.
• Testing approach: dust (ERMI-style) plus air samples plus bulk/swab samples on visible growth; toilets and wax seals are common failure points worth replacing preemptively.
• In Colorado, buyers can exit contracts via "inspection objection" without disclosing mold specifically; she chose whether to share findings with sellers as a courtesy.
• Basements/window wells need proper stone (not mulch) and drainage to prevent water intrusion.
• Post-purchase upgrades: whole-home water filtration, Moen Flo smart shutoff with leak sensors at every fixture, and multiple air filtration units.
• Her advice: budget and stage fixes over time (water/roof/siding first) rather than trying to remediate everything at once.

EPISODE RESOURCES

AirDoctor

Hospital-grade purifier that traps mold spores, allergens & VOCs for cleaner, healthier indoor air.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/AirDoctor

Immunolytics

Order at-home testing for mold in your home.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Immunolytics

Aquasana

Whole-home water filtration that removes contaminants for cleaner, safer water straight from every tap.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/aquasana

Branch Basics

Non-toxic cleaning products, perfect for a mold-safe move-in deep clean. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 15% off.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/BranchBasics

CONNECT WITH THE GUEST

Website:

https://www.jillcarnahan.com/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/drjillcarnahan

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/FlatironFunctionalMedicine

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@DrJillCarnahan

KEYWORDS

mold-free home, house hunting mold, ERMI dust test, mold inspection, water damage, home buying tips, air purifier, water filtration

MEET THE GUEST

Jamie Goldman, MS, CN, NBC-HWC is a Health Coach at Viome and a member of the company's Precision Nutrition Science team. Jamie combines expertise in functional medicine, nutrition science, and health coaching to help people translate complex health data into practical, sustainable lifestyle changes.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT

• Viome's at-home test kit: collect a sample, send to the lab, get a readout on gut and body-system function.
• Why Viome analyzes RNA, not DNA or blood biomarkers: RNA reflects active gene expression, not static genetic code.
• Stool RNA analysis reveals which gut microbes are present and what they're doing (e.g., methane gas production).
• Food recommendations target specific microbial activities: reducing trigger foods, adding foods that counter them.
• Why retesting every 4 to 6 months is recommended, giving enough time to see real change without overshooting.
• Supplements beyond food: vitamins, minerals, a 300+ ingredient plant extract library, probiotics, and prebiotic fibers.
• Why "gut-healthy" foods like yogurt and kombucha aren't universal (methane production, FODMAP sensitivity, sugar content).
• Viome users range from biohackers optimizing longevity to people with chronic, unexplained gut symptoms.
• The gut-brain axis: brain fog, low mood, fatigue, and poor cognitive clarity as signs of gut dysbiosis.
• Why generic probiotics are a gamble, versus matching strains to an individual's actual gut profile.
• A "healthy" microbiome means richness and diversity, like an old-growth forest versus an overgrown clear-cut.
• How antibiotics wipe out microbial diversity, and how to protect gut health during and after a course.
• Everyday gut disruptors: alcohol, sedentary behavior, chronic stress, and environmental toxins.
• Allergies (immune-driven, usually permanent), sensitivities (often from leaky gut, can resolve), and intolerances (genetic) differ.
• Emerging research: the estrobolome and estrogen metabolism, and the microbiome's link to bone density.
• Debunking carnivore: may ease GI symptoms short term but removing fiber isn't sustainable long term.
• Debunking juice cleanses: they strip fiber and effectively starve gut microbes.
• Best fiber sources: nuts, seeds, legumes, mushrooms, oats, hardier vegetables, and fruit.
• Prebiotic fiber types (FOS, PHGG) and why food-based fiber should come first, not just supplements.
• Starting advice: read ingredient labels, cut processed additives, and diversify diet with varied produce.

EPISODE RESOURCES

Viome

Personalized gut health testing that analyzes your microbiome's RNA, with tailored food and supplement guidance.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/viome

Bulletproof

Innerfuel plant-based prebiotic fiber powder that feeds good gut bacteria. Save 20% with code TRAILTOHEALTH20.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/bulletproof

Breadsrsly

Naturally fermented, gluten-free sourdough breads and crackers. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH and save 15%.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/BreadSRSLY

Thrive Market

Shop curated low-FODMAP and specialty diet groceries, making gut-friendly eating easier to find and afford.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/ThriveMarket

Four Sigmatic

Mushroom-powered coffees, elixirs, and supplements packed with beta-glucan fiber for gut support. 20% off with code ERIKA83918.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/foursigmatic

CONNECT WITH THE GUEST

Website:

http://www.viome.com/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/viome/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/viome

KEYWORDS

Gut health, microbiome, RNA testing, prebiotics, probiotics, fiber, dysbiosis

MEET THE GUEST

Dr. Emily Kostelnik is a Clinical Health Psychologist specializing in vestibular disorders who brings both professional expertise and personal lived experience to her work. She is the founder of two organizations: Rooted Behavioral Education offers virtual behavioral health courses and coaching for those with chronic dizziness and The Vestibular Psychologist is private practice providing individual therapy and professional consultation to help clients reclaim a full and meaningful life.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT

• Definition of the vestibular system, the inner ear's balance mechanism, working with vision and proprioception.
• Common inner-ear causes: BPPV (loose ear crystals) and Meniere's disease.
• Central/neurological causes: vestibular migraine and persistent postural perceptual dizziness (PPPD).
• Vestibular migraine is the most common cause of dizziness in women under 60, often without head pain.
• Motion sickness in childhood as a possible early marker of vestibular migraine.
• Why diagnosis is hard: it falls between ENT and neurology specialties.
• Right specialists to see: otologist/neurotologist, balance-focused neurologist, headache specialist, or vestibular physical therapist.
• Ruling out other causes first (anemia, cardiac issues) before a vestibular diagnosis.
• Symptoms often appear "suddenly" but are usually building for a long time (the "final straw" concept).
• Root causes: nervous system dysregulation, toxic load, gut dysfunction, liver/bile issues.
• Overlap with MCAS, POTS, hypermobility, and neurodivergence (ADHD/autism).
• Mold exposure and mycotoxins as a major contributor to inflammation and vestibular symptoms.
• Nutrient deficiencies commonly seen (iron, vitamin D, B vitamins) in patients.
• Infections like Lyme disease, H. pylori, and candida as possible triggers.
• Histamine and mast cell activation's role in vestibular symptoms, and use of antihistamines/low-histamine diets.
• Ongoing research into hypermobility, connective tissue disorders, and genetic pathway variants in vestibular migraine.
• Prevalence: vestibular migraine affects about 1 to 2% of the population; BPPV affects about 7%. It's more common in women, with a research funding gap.
• Treatment options ranging from simple (repositioning maneuvers for BPPV) to complex (preventive medications, supplements, physical therapy, psychotherapy, root-cause approaches).
• Advice for listeners: start with a primary care doctor or vestibular physical therapist; hope lies in CGRP medications and inflammation-focused research.

EPISODE RESOURCES

Viome

Uncover the gut-histamine connection behind your dizziness with an at-home test.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/viome

Thorne

Supplements including Quercetin Phytosome, a highly absorbable antioxidant that helps regulate histamine release.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Thorne

Pulsetto

A wearable vagus nerve stimulator that calms your nervous system in minutes.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Pulsetto

Earthing

Grounding products that calm nervous system dysregulation and reduce inflammation.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/earthing

Tick Tock Repellent

Natural tick protection to help prevent Lyme disease and its related complications.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/ticktocknaturals

CONNECT WITH THE GUEST

Website:

https://www.rootedbehavioraleducation.com/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/dremilykostelnik

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/dremilykostelnik

TikTok:

https://www.tiktok.com/search?q=%40dremilykostelnik&t=1785699859015

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@rootedbehavioraleducation

KEYWORDS

vestibular disorder, vertigo causes, chronic dizziness, vestibular migraine, BPPV treatment, MCAS symptoms, histamine intolerance, mold toxicity, nervous system dysregulation, Lyme disease dizziness

MEET THE GUEST

Dr. Torrie Thompson is a functional wellness practitioner, educator, and founder of Meraki Wellness Center. Known for her root-cause approach, she helps clients uncover hidden factors that may be impacting their health, including mold exposure, environmental toxins, heavy metals, gut dysfunction, and other overlooked stressors. After overcoming her own decade-long health journey as a young adult, Dr. Torrie made it her mission to help others find answers when conventional approaches have fallen short. Through advanced testing, she has helped thousands of clients pinpoint potential root causes of their health challenges so they can finally take control of their health.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT

• Meraki Wellness Center's specialties: mold, Lyme, parasites, autoimmune disease, environmental toxins
• "Test, don't guess" approach to root-cause diagnosis
• Standard lab panel: organic acids, mycotoxins, environmental toxins, heavy metals, stool testing
• Treatment sequencing: mold/mycotoxins, then gut, then heavy metals/environmental toxins
• Urine vs. blood testing for mycotoxins
• Provocation methods before mycotoxin testing (exercise, sauna, lymphatic massage)
• Old or past mold exposure as a hidden, ongoing source of illness
• Food-based mycotoxins in peanuts, grains, and coffee
• Rising environmental toxin loads seen in testing, including in children
• Why a "clean" current lifestyle doesn't clear past toxic exposure
• Detox tools: binders, sauna, lymphatic support, hydration, inflammation reduction
• Prevalence of parasites in chronic illness, including in the US
• Drainage pathways: lymphatic system, liver, kidneys, gut
• Bowel movements and sweating as prerequisites for detox
• Long COVID's overlap with tick-borne illness and reactivated viruses (EBV, CMV)
• Rising rates of mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS)
• Advanced testing: organic acids (OATs), neural zoomers, stealth infection panels
• Growing mainstream awareness of mold and toxin-related illness via social media
• Advice for starting a health journey: choosing a practitioner, using AI as a supplement, retesting to track progress

EPISODE RESOURCES

Higher Dose

Infrared sauna blankets, PEMF mats & red light tools to support detox, circulation, and everyday recovery.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/HigherDose

AquaTru

Countertop reverse osmosis water filters that remove lead, PFAS, and chlorine.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/aquatru

AirDoctor

HEPA air purifiers designed to capture mold spores, VOCs, and ultrafine particles.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/aquatru

DesBio

Homeopathic drainage remedies to support the liver, lymphatic system, and detox pathways. Use this link for 5% off.

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Quicksilver

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ImmunoLytics

At-home mold testing kits with certified lab analysis, helping identify hidden indoor mold exposure.

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CONNECT WITH THE GUEST

Website:

https://www.drtorriethompson.com/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/drtorriethompson

TikTok:

https://www.tiktok.com/search?q=%40drtorriethompson&t=1785697467862

KEYWORDS

mold toxicity symptoms, mycotoxin testing, Lyme disease treatment, chronic illness root cause, environmental toxin detox, mast cell activation syndrome, parasite cleanse, liver detox support, lymphatic drainage, functional medicine practitioner, heavy metal detox, long COVID recovery

MEET THE GUEST

Jordan Glenn is the Head of Science at SuppCo, the app that personalizes and optimizes supplement routines. He holds a PhD in Exercise Physiology with a focus on nutrition, aging, and behavioral health, and has authored more than 100 peer-reviewed publications. As a scientist and researcher specializing in nutrition, supplements, and human health, Jordan is dedicated to translating complex science into practical, evidence-based guidance. His mission is to empower individuals with the clarity and confidence needed to make informed decisions about their supplement routines.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT

• How the supplement industry has evolved from single ingredients to niche, hyper-specific products
• SuppCo's mission to help consumers navigate supplement choices
• SuppCo's "Trust Score", rating brands on 30+ manufacturing attributes
• Third-party lab testing results on popular supplements bought online
• Creatine gummies found to be severely underdosed or missing active ingredient
• Lack of consistent regulatory testing after a product's initial approval sample
• How Amazon's "golden sample" testing loophole allows inconsistent product quality
• Why gummies struggle with heat- and moisture-sensitive ingredients like probiotics
• Dosing limitations of gummies (e.g., needing many gummies for a full creatine or omega-3 dose
• Buying from official brand storefronts vs. third-party Amazon sellers
• How absorption varies by form factor (capsules, powders, liquids, soft gels)
• Why probiotics need enteric-coated capsules to survive stomach acid
• Why fat-soluble nutrients (vitamin D, omega-3) are best delivered in fat-based formats
• Why creatine powder is considered the most stable, effective format
• Risks of stacking too many supplements without understanding interactions
• Downsides of proprietary multivitamin blends with hidden ingredient amounts
• Recommended "non-negotiable" starter stack: creatine, vitamin D3/K2, and magnesium
• The importance of knowing your specific reason for taking any supplement
• Which supplements can be taken indefinitely vs. those that should be cycled (e.g., berberine)
• Common supplement myths debunked (creatine as a gym-only supplement, price equals quality, more supplements equals better health, electrolyte necessity)
• The role of the placebo effect in perceived supplement benefits
• Where supplement regulation is headed and the growing role of consumer awareness

EPISODE RESOURCES

SuppCo

Scan your supplements in the app, get a trust score for every product, and finally know what you are actually taking.

https://supp.co/

Thorne

Third-party tested creatine, magnesium and D3/K2, the trusted non-negotiable for your daily supplement stack.

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Function Health

Get lab tested and know exactly which nutrients you are actually deficient in before building a supplement stack.

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BiOptimizers

Magnesium Breakthrough covers the full spectrum most people are lacking. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 10% off.

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Promix

Pure, lab tested creatine powder in the stable, effective format, easy to mix into water or coffee daily. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 10% off.

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Rho Nutrition

Clean, third party tested creatine to support energy, muscle and long term brain health. Get 15% off your first order with code TRAILTOHEALTH.

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CONNECT WITH THE GUEST

Website:

http://supp.co/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/joinsuppco

TikTok:

https://www.tiktok.com/@joinsuppco

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEB9zpr6dWBOOjQ868Y6yJQ

KEYWORDS

supplement quality testing, best creatine powder, creatine vs gummies, magnesium glycinate benefits, vitamin D3 K2 supplement, third party tested supplements, SUPCO trust score, supplement myths, how to choose supplements, probiotic absorption, best supplement stack, clean label supplements

MEET THE GUEST

Jennifer is a Yoga, Pilates, Meditation & Breathwork teacher who specialises in fertility & women’s health. During a long & difficult fertility journey of her own, Jennifer eventually found the practice of Fertility Yoga. This practice was able to ease her anxiety while TTC, relieve chronic insomnia, re-balance a thyroid condition…and eventually it helped her to fall pregnant naturally. She now runs an online business, Element Pilates & Yoga, helping women all over the world to overcome fertility challenges & find their way to motherhood. She’s the host of the Your Journey to Fertility Podcast and the creator of the In Your Element Fertility Yoga Program.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT

• How Jennifer's fertility journey began with an early menopause misdiagnosis at 34
• First round of IVF and the odds of a single embryo surviving to birth
• Cycle returning naturally after breastfeeding, and a second early menopause diagnosis reversal
• New fertility diagnoses at 37, including thyroid issues and blocked fallopian tubes
• Male factor fertility issues and why men are often undertested
• Secondary infertility and the emotional toll of trying for a second child
• Losing embryos during a COVID lockdown clinic closure
• Discovering fertility yoga during lockdown and its early effects on sleep and thyroid health
• Natural pregnancy after IVF was said to be unlikely, and the loss that followed
• Retraining as a yoga teacher and specializing in fertility work
• Insulin resistance and metabolic conditions as fertility disruptors
• Cortisol and stress as drivers of menstrual cycle irregularities
• How fertility yoga differs from a regular yoga practice
• Matching yoga practices to each phase of the menstrual cycle
• Nervous system regulation and its role in fertility and conception
• Why the nervous system can't distinguish emotional stress from physical danger
• Mindset strategies for navigating the highs and lows of a fertility journey
• Setting boundaries around triggering events like baby showers
• Co-regulation and building a support network during a fertility journey
• First steps to take when starting a fertility journey, including early testing

EPISODE RESOURCES

Organifi

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Oura Ring

Get a clearer picture of your sleep, stress, and cycle health, with insights made just for you on your fertility journey.

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Thorne

Prenatal vitamins to help you prepare for and support a healthy pregnancy.

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Somavedic

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Primal Trust

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CONNECT WITH THE GUEST

Website:

https://www.elementpilatesyoga.com/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/jen.elementpilatesyoga/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086747915761

YouTube:

https://youtube.com/@elementpilatesyoga

KEYWORDS

fertility yoga, nervous system regulation, secondary infertility, IVF, male factor fertility, thyroid health, cortisol and stress, ovulation tracking, prenatal vitamins, sleep support, mindset coaching, embryo transfer, menstrual cycle health, co-regulation, fertility support community

MEET THE GUEST

Dr. Sirisha Vadali is a board-certified cardiologist, advanced lipidologist, and leading voice in cardiometabolic health, prevention, and women’s heart health. As Program Director of HonorHealth’s Cardiometabolic Program, she specializes in helping patients reduce cardiovascular risk before life-threatening events occur through a blend of advanced medicine, metabolic health, lifestyle changes, and prevention-focused care. Known for making complex health topics approachable, Dr. Vadali is passionate about reshaping conversations around GLP-1s, women’s cardiovascular health, stress reduction, and longevity. Having treated over 100,000 patients, she believes prevention is the future of medicine and that sustainable lifestyle changes can transform long-term heart health.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT

• Cardiologists often niche into advanced lipidology because most doctors don't have time to check those specific labs
• More patients are now seeking preventative cardiac care, not just treatment after symptoms appear
• Heart health screening age depends on risk profile: as early as 18 with family history, otherwise 30 to 50
• High cholesterol is the top modifiable risk factor for heart attack, according to the Interheart Study
• Thyroid issues, hormonal shifts, pregnancy, menopause, and low vitamin D can all raise cholesterol
• Cholesterol comes from both diet and genetics, roughly 50-50 for most people
• The brain and heart synthesize their own cholesterol independent of blood levels
• "Normal" cholesterol targets vary by individual risk profile rather than a fixed number
• Women are underrepresented in cardiovascular studies despite heart disease being their top killer
• Hormonal changes can mask heart symptoms and contribute to cardiac events in women
• Heart attacks can occur at any age; genetic factors like Lp(a) matter more than age alone
• Arterial plaque, once formed, cannot be removed, only stabilized through lifestyle and treatment
• Plaque rupture, not just blockage, is a major and unpredictable cause of heart attacks
• Recent advances include transcatheter valve replacement, robotic bypass surgery, and leadless pacemakers
• Visceral fat is dangerous even in thin people and silently damages arteries
• GLP-1 medications are reshaping cardiometabolic care by reducing visceral fat and inflammation
• AFib is common and under-diagnosed, with stroke risk as its main danger
• Wearables like Apple Watch are helping detect AFib earlier, with ablation as a treatment option
• Coronary artery calcium scoring is described as the most powerful test for visualizing heart plaque
• Consistent exercise, blood pressure screening, and managing stress are key habits seen in heart-healthy older patients

EPISODE RESOURCES

Nikki

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Heart and Soil Supplements

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Vital Choice Seafood

Wild-caught seafood packed with omega-3s to support heart health and fight inflammation. Save 5% on your first order with code 1VCAF5.

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Brightland

Cold-pressed, heart-healthy olive oil to support inflammation and cardiovascular wellness, straight from the source.

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Oura Ring

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CONNECT WITH THE GUEST

Website:

https://www.sirishavadali.com/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/vadalimd

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/sirisha.vadali

KEYWORDS

heart health, cardiovascular disease, cholesterol, visceral fat, AFib, GLP-1, coronary calcium score, women's heart health, cardiometabolic health, blood pressure, plaque buildup

MEET THE GUEST

Dr. Sutton is passionate about identifying the root causes of chronic health problems and developed a deep interest in iron disorders after her husband suffered severe complications from previously undiagnosed hereditary hemochromatosis, including liver disease and a pituitary tumor. Living with Crohn's disease and iron deficiency anemia herself, she has experienced both sides of iron dysregulation firsthand. In her book and workshop, The Iron Curse, Dr. Sutton explores the full spectrum of iron imbalance, from overload to deficiency anemia, covering underlying causes, contributing factors, and evidence-based natural strategies that may help support healthier iron regulation and overall wellness.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT

• How undiagnosed hemochromatosis can cause liver damage and pituitary tumors
• Wide range of iron overload symptoms, from fatigue to joint pain
• Organs most affected by excess iron: liver, heart, pancreas, gonads, thyroid, brain
• Hemochromatosis prevalence and high rate of underdiagnosis
• Carrier myth debunked, one gene still carries real risk
• Ferritin and iron saturation as key diagnostic markers
• Target ferritin ranges for people with a hemochromatosis gene
• Blood removal and donation as first-line treatment
• Diet shifts that lower iron, including calcium-rich foods
• Supplements that help chelate iron: curcumin, alpha lipoic acid, EGCG, silymarin
• Quercetin and berberine for lowering iron absorption
• Realistic timelines for bringing iron levels down
• Three hemochromatosis genes explained, heavyweight, middleweight, lightweight
• How iron levels shift with age and gender across a lifetime
• Recommended testing frequency for people with a hemochromatosis gene
• Celiac disease connection to hemochromatosis genetics
• Evolutionary reasons hemochromatosis and celiac genes persist in the population

EPISODE RESOURCES

Thrive Market

Gluten-free pantry staples delivered to your door, making it easier to stock a celiac-friendly kitchen.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/ThriveMarket

Quicksilver

Milk thistle helps your body bind and clear excess iron while supporting liver health. Save 15% with code TRAILTOHEALTH.

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Caraway

Non-toxic cookware and cutting boards help prevent cross-contamination in a celiac-safe kitchen. Save 10% with code TRAILTOHEALTH10.

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BiOptimizers

Berberine supplements help lower iron absorption to support healthy iron levels. Save 10% with code TRAILTOHEALTH.

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Primal Kitchen

Gluten-free snacks and liver support supplements, all in one place. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 10% off.

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CONNECT WITH THE GUEST

Website:

http://drchristysutton.com/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/drchristysutton

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/drchristysutton

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@drchristysutton

KEYWORDS

hereditary hemochromatosis, iron overload, iron deficiency anemia, ferritin levels, iron saturation test, celiac disease, gluten-free diet, liver support, milk thistle, berberine, curcumin, alpha lipoic acid, genetic testing, carrier myth, blood donation, chelation supplements, autoimmune disease, iron chelation

MEET THE GUEST

Dr. Cory Tichauer is a board-certified Naturopathic Doctor with 22 years of experience in complex chronic illness and tick-borne infections at Bear Creek Naturopathic Clinic in southern Oregon. A longtime ILADS member and former board director, he also belongs to ISEAI, the ISMCAS, and the Ehlers-Danlos Society. Dr. Cory uses functional medicine, naturopathic therapies, individualized pharmaceuticals, and advanced diagnostics to remove obstacles to health and support the body's self-repair mechanisms.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT

• Dr. Tichauer's background as a naturopathic physician and why he chose that path over conventional medicine
• How chronic infection, particularly tick-borne illness, emerged as a central focus of his clinical practice
• His involvement with ILADS and the role of the organization in advancing provider education
• Why current two-tiered Lyme testing (ELISA + immunoblot) misses a large percentage of chronic cases
• The use of the B31 lab strain in standard testing and how it contributes to false negatives
• How immune suppression, biofilm formation, and the intracellular nature of Borrelia reduce antibody production
• How lab threshold cutoffs are calibrated for acute care, not chronic illness
• The difference between qualitative and quantitative ELISA results, and why specific band markers matter
• Javora Health: what it is, how it was created, and its mission to increase access to quality Lyme testing
• The TASO home blood collection kit: how it works, why it's well-tolerated, and how samples are processed
• Armin Labs: what makes it one of the most validated Lyme testing labs, including CAP certification and German standards
• The TickPlex panel and the scope of co-infections, chronic viral infections, and parasites it can screen for
• Round body (persister form) Lyme testing and why up to two-thirds of chronic Lyme patients test negative on standard ELISA
• The LymEspot (ELISpot/lymphocyte transformation test): how T-cell testing can detect active infection within 10 to 14 days of exposure
• Serial testing as a tool to track treatment progress, including why an initial antibody increase after treatment can be a positive sign
• The three-pillar natural support protocol: immune upregulation, biofilm disruption, and antimicrobial herbs
• Javora's symptom-tracking app, online quiz for test selection, and Dr. Tichauer's weekly open office hours
• The future of Lyme testing: the need for consensus between functional and conventional medicine, and what improved direct-organism testing could look like

EPISODE RESOURCES

Jivora

Get accurate tick-borne illness testing to support earlier detection and personalized care.

https://jivora.co/pages/ambassador-program

Desbio

Supplements that support chronic illness recovery. Use our link for 5% off.

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Tick Mitt

Stop Lyme before it happens with a chemical-free tick-removing mitt. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 10% off.

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Tick Tock

Stay safe from tick-borne illness with natural tick and mosquito repellents.

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NIKKI

Support your holistic Lyme routine with a wearable wellness device. Receive 10% off using code TRAILTOHEALTH.

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CONNECT WITH THE GUEST

Website:

http://jivorahealth.com/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/jivorahealth

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/jivorahealth/

KEYWORDS

Lyme disease testing, home Lyme test, tick-borne illness, chronic Lyme, Borrelia testing, Armin Labs, co-infection testing, Lyme literate doctor, naturopathic Lyme treatment, ILADS, Javora Health

MEET THE GUEST

Dr. Chris Renna, DO is one of the nation's foremost leaders in preventive and longevity medicine and the founder of LifeSpan Medicine, established in 1992, with flagship clinics in Santa Monica, Miami, and Dallas. Board-certified in family medicine and a cum laude graduate of the University of North Texas Health Science Center, he realized early that traditional medical training was designed to treat disease, not create health. He draws from advanced diagnostics, functional medicine, and deep clinical insight to craft personalized protocols for patients who have often tried everything else. He is the author of The End of Pain and Balance Your Brain, Balance Your Life, has presented at the Global Wellness Summit, and has been featured in outlets ranging from goop to The Atlantic.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT

• Dr. Renna's pivot from disease treatment to preventive medicine after five years in conventional practice
• Self-education in diet, exercise physiology, sleep science, and motivational psychology during the 1980s
• The founding of LifeSpan Medicine in 1992 and the shift to seeing patients as clients and equals
• Lifespan vs. health span and why functional longevity matters more than simply living longer
• Setting concrete longevity goals, including remaining physically and cognitively active into your 90s
• The four cornerstones of health: diet, exercise, sleep, and mental perspective
• How the immune, hormonal, and neurochemical systems function as one integrated system rather than separately
• Cognitive decline prevention through mindset, acceptance, and reducing chronic low-grade inflammation

• How the decade between ages 45 and 55 is the most health-critical due to declining reproductive hormones
• Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy for both men and women and its benefits for strength, cognition, and disease prevention
• Metabolic health, insulin resistance, and the cascade of problems associated with metabolic syndrome
• The importance of nutrient-dense, home-prepared, locally sourced food and quality cooking oils
• Genetics as a limit-setter rather than a life sentence, and how lifestyle choices shape epigenetic expression
• Biological age testing and how genomic adaptability declines with age and poor lifestyle habits
• What healthy aging actually looks like through your 50s, 60s, and beyond with consistent habits
• Core supplements to consider: omega-3 oils, a quality multivitamin, and vitamin D
• How exercise in your 50s, including resistance training and flexibility work, determines your biological age at 70 and beyond

EPISODE RESOURCES

Integrative Peptides

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StemRegen

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Heart and Soil Supplements

The most nutrient-dense foods your body can get, in supplement form. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 10% off.

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Prolon

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Genopalate

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CONNECT WITH THE GUEST

Website:

https://www.lifespanmedicine.com/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/lifespanmedicine

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/lifespanmedicineMD/

KEYWORDS

longevity medicine, health span, biological age, metabolic health, hormone replacement, peptides, stem cells, nutrient density, cognitive decline, epigenetics, insulin resistance, preventive medicine, omega-3, vitamin D, bioidentical hormones, aging well

MEET THE GUEST

Alliera is the co-founder of HAAUS., an interior design, renovation and build brand that grew from sharing her own home and projects online. Alliera and her business partner started HAAUS. because at the time, no one was really sharing where they sourced their products from, so they began sharing their selections, suppliers and renovation journey and it went a little crazy from there, their numbers almost blew up overnight. Through HAAUS, they now share honest renovation insight, design education and real project experience to help people feel more confident creating a home they genuinely love.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT

• How the House Instagram account started as a hobby sharing renovation ideas
• Discovery of black mold during a routine floorboard repair
• The family's emotional reaction to finding mold in a brand-new home
• Parents forced to evacuate with only the clothes on their backs
• Mold spores spreading to furniture, clothing, and personal belongings
• Source of moisture traced to a junction between the old and new concrete slab
• Difficulty getting answers and tradespeople over the Christmas holiday period
• Failed first remediation attempt and the discovery of efflorescence on the slab
• Scope of remediation work across flooring, walls, insulation, and HVAC
• Health symptoms the family had dismissed, including fatigue, headaches, and chronic runny nose
• Mold in a two-year-old home built by licensed trades with proper permits
• Mental health toll and ongoing anxiety after returning to the home
• Air purifiers and air quality monitors as part of post-mold life
• Followers discovering mold in their own homes after seeing Allira's story
• Mold as a hidden environmental toxin with no visible warning signs
• Newer homes being potentially more susceptible to mold than older builds
• Upcoming educational courses, home design plans, and a new product line from House

EPISODE RESOURCES

Immunolytics

At-home mold testing so you can check your space without waiting for visible signs.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Immunolytics

Quicksilver

Support your body after mold exposure with liposomal supplements built for better absorption. Save 15% with code TRAILTOHEALTH.

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Jaspr

Jaspr's air scrubber filters out mold spores, dust, and toxins so your air stays clean. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 10% off.

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Branch Basics

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AirDoctor

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CONNECT WITH THE GUEST

Website:

https://haaus.com.au/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/haausdesign

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@haaus

KEYWORDS

black mold in new home, black mold symptoms, mold remediation, at home mold testing, mold and fatigue, mold and headaches, mold health effects, hidden mold, mold under floorboards, mold in walls, efflorescence, air purifier for mold, mold spores, toxic mold, mold exposure

MEET THE GUEST

Rebecca Gilbert, MD, PhD, is Chief Mission Officer at the American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA), where she leads mission strategy, oversees research, and guides educational programming. She earned her MD and PhD from Weill Cornell and completed her Neurology Residency and Movement Disorders Fellowship at Columbia Presbyterian. Before joining APDA, she was Associate Professor of Neurology at NYU Langone's Fresco Institute for Parkinson's and Movement Disorders.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT

• What Parkinson's disease is and how it fits into the broader category of movement disorders
• The core motor symptoms: tremor, stiffness, slowness, and balance issues
• The non-motor symptoms and why they often go unrecognised, including mood changes, cognitive difficulties, sleep disruption, fatigue, and pain
• Age of onset and the reality of young onset Parkinson's, which can affect people in their 30s and 40s
• Early warning signs that are easy to miss, including loss of smell, constipation, and subtle asymmetric stiffness
• How Parkinson's is currently diagnosed through clinical neurological examination and the limitations of that approach
• Emerging biomarker testing (skin biopsy, DAT scan, lumbar puncture) and the push to diagnose earlier
• The role of genetics: the approximately 15 known gene variants and the 85% of risk still not fully understood
• Environmental contributors, including the herbicide Paraquat and the industrial solvent TCE, and why banning them has been slow
• The golf course proximity research and how cumulative risk works, using the "overflowing cup" model
• The connection between chronic infection, inflammation, and neurological disease, including alpha-synuclein accumulation and the role of neuroinflammation
• The gut-brain connection and the theory that Parkinson's may originate in the gut and travel to the brain via the vagus nerve
• Current treatment options including dopamine-based medications and deep brain stimulation surgery
• The critical importance of both structured exercise and general daily movement for people living with Parkinson's
• The Mediterranean diet's impact on Parkinson's progression, including research showing it delayed onset by up to 17 years in one study
• What is currently being researched, including neuroprotective treatments that could change disease trajectory rather than just manage symptoms

EPISODE RESOURCES

Danger Coffee

Mold free coffee to reduce exposure in your morning cup. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 10% off.

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Viome

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Nikki

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AirDoctor

Filters out airborne chemicals and pollutants linked to environmental exposure.

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Leon & George

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CONNECT WITH THE GUEST

Website:

https://www.apdaparkinson.org/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/apdaparkinsons

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/APDAparkinsons/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@apdaparkinsons

KEYWORDS

Parkinson's disease, movement disorders, neurology, APDA, neurologist, dopamine, alpha-synuclein, gut-brain connection, early diagnosis, Mediterranean diet, exercise, non-motor symptoms, toxic load

MEET THE GUESTS

Jennifer Hollander, MSN, FNP-C is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and co-founder of Holländer Clinic, with over a decade of experience in cosmetic dermatology spanning injectables, laser therapies, radiofrequency treatments, and regenerative skincare. Recognized for her advanced skill in treating ethnic and diverse skin types, she is a faculty lecturer at national aesthetic conferences and is committed to evidence-based, patient-centered care rooted in subtle, purposeful enhancements that maintain skin health and natural balance.

Marie Trimarchi brings nearly two decades of expertise in aesthetic medicine, clinical operations, and patient experience design. As the Director of Aesthetic Strategy and Patient Experience at Holländer Clinic, she oversees strategic practice growth, protocol implementation, compliance, and team development while ensuring every treatment is backed by rigorous clinical standards and a concierge-level experience that treats the whole person, not just the skin.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT

• The clinic's founding philosophy and the gap between external aesthetic care and internal healthy aging medicine.
• Natural aesthetics as a spectrum from least to most invasive, built around diet, lifestyle, genetics, and skin health.
• Skincare product overuse, the damage from mixing too many acids and retinoids, and the skin barrier inflammation that follows.
• Facial filler risks most patients are never told about, including vascular occlusion, lymphatic blockage, granulomas, and blindness.
• The differences between HA gel fillers, permanent materials, biostimulators like Sculptra, and autologous options including PRP, PRF, and EZGel.
• Skin laxity and volume loss in GLP-1 patients, and the treatment sequence from skin quality to filler to RF microneedling to surgical referral.
• Profound RF microneedling, how it differs from standard microneedling, and the tissue requirements for candidacy.
• The CO2 laser, who it is actually appropriate for, and the problem with it being overprescribed in practices with limited device options.
• Clear and Brilliant as a low-downtime treatment for sun damage, pigmentation, and texture across a wide range of skin types.
• Rosacea, broken capillaries, and vascular redness treated with pulse dye laser, and the distinction between brown and red sun damage.
• Acne and rosacea treatment without antibiotics, and the conditions that make lasers and microneedling the wrong choice.
• Age-appropriate treatment timing and the long-term consequences of starting injectables too young.

• Weightlifting as an underrated tool for facial and neck tone and its role in aging prevention.
• Skin picking disorder, the psychological layer underneath aesthetic concerns, and building a referral network for patient needs beyond the treatment room.
• The future of aesthetic medicine, including body treatments, hair restoration, and merging external care with internal healthy aging medicine.

EPISODE RESOURCES

OneSkin

Science-backed skincare to support skin longevity and healthy aging.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/OneSkin

Therabody

Devices to address skin texture, redness, and inflammation without invasive treatment.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Therabody

Genopalate

DNA-based nutrition guidance to support healthy aging and longevity. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for $10 off.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/genopalate

CONNECT WITH THE GUEST

Website:

https://hollanderclinic.com/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/jenn.hollander

https://www.instagram.com/hollanderclinic/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/jenhollandernp/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@jenniferhollandermsnfnp-c4702

KEYWORDS

skin aging, anti-aging treatments, facial fillers, botox alternatives, natural aesthetics, RF microneedling, CO2 laser, laser skin resurfacing, skin laxity, collagen stimulation, PRP facial, GLP-1 skin effects, rosacea treatment, acne scarring, sun damage treatment, injectable fillers, skin tightening

MEET THE GUEST

Deanna Latson is a professional speaker who has spoken at over 800 universities, appeared on live TV, and worked with countless corporate audiences. She built her career making complicated topics simple, engaging, and unforgettable from health and leadership to business and personal growth. She later brought that same skill into the corporate world, becoming a global product and marketing executive and helping scale companies in health, wellness, skincare, supplements, and direct selling.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT

• The gap in conventional medicine around nutrition, and the growing need for patients to research, self-advocate, and seek multiple opinions
• Over 800 colleges, universities, and organizations reached through health and wellness speaking before co-founding a nutritional company
• A consulting relationship with Immunotec that turned into a full-time role based on the company’s science, leadership, and culture
• Why glutathione is known as the body’s master antioxidant and the critical role it plays in every cell
• How glutathione supports cellular function, detoxification, immune health, energy production, and the recycling of vitamins C and E
• Why glutathione production naturally begins declining as early as your 20s, and how stress, alcohol, pollution, plastics, fragrances, and other environmental exposures accelerate that decline
• Why low glutathione levels have been associated with a wide range of chronic diseases, including neurological disorders, cancer, and immune dysfunction
• Why oral glutathione supplements often break down before absorption, and why liposomal forms still lack strong evidence of improved effectiveness
• Immunotec’s precursor approach, providing the body with the building blocks to naturally produce more glutathione instead of supplementing glutathione directly
• More than 90 published studies, approximately 79 patents, and over 25 double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trials supporting the company’s technology
• Glutathione testing, who may benefit from measuring their levels, and what to expect when starting supplementation
• Three product lines designed for different goals, including proactive wellness, healthy aging, immune support, bone health, and athletic recovery
• Individual timelines for noticing results, ranging from about one week to 30 days depending on age, health status, and personal needs
• Red flags and green flags in the supplement industry, including third-party lot testing, clinical research, international regulatory standards, and manufacturing quality
• Why investing in prevention and supporting your health before symptoms appear may lead to a longer healthspan and better quality of life
• The importance of mindset, purpose, happiness, and mental well-being as essential parts of healthy aging alongside nutrition and supplementation

EPISODE RESOURCES

Immunotec

Immunocal®, is an all-natural protein with the highest biological value of any edible protein, and clinically proven to raise glutathione levels.

https://www.immunotec.com/

CONNECT WITH THE GUEST

Website:

https://www.immunotec.com/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/immunotec/

https://www.instagram.com/deannalatson/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/Immunotec/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/immunotec

KEYWORDS

glutathione, master antioxidant, immune health, healthy aging, oxidative stress, glutathione precursor, Immuno Tech, supplement science, longevity, detoxification, biohacking, antioxidant support

MEET THE GUEST

Dr. Robert Whitfield is a board-certified plastic surgeon in Austin, Texas, and founder of the SHARP Method, a biologic recovery system integrating surgery, genetics, detoxification, and regenerative medicine. Nationally recognized for his work in Breast Implant Illness, he has published the largest series of PCR-tested explant capsules, documenting bacterial contamination in nearly 29% of cases, and has performed thousands of explant and fat transfer procedures. His work spans inflammation science, immune activation, biofilm research, and whole-body optimization, and he lectures nationally on chronic inflammation and the biologic implications of foreign materials in the body.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT

• The discovery of breast implant illness through a cancer patient with a silent E. coli infection in her implant capsule that resolved her chronic fatigue once treated.
• Breast implant illness as a chronic inflammatory condition and its symptom overlap with mold, Lyme disease, Epstein-Barr, and parasitic infections.
• Bacterial contamination rates in implant capsules, the published research behind the data, and the truth behind viral mold-filled implant photos.
• The three ways bacteria get onto implants over time and the body's inability to clear bacteria from a foreign device.
• The limits of explant surgery alone and the pre and post surgical work required for real recovery.
• The SHARP methodology, covering genetics, gut health, toxicity burden, food sensitivities, hormone testing, and microbiome assessment.
• The explant surgery timeline, including pre-surgical supplement stacking, inflammation reduction, and the day-after recovery stack of lymphatic drainage, hyperbaric therapy, and red light.
• Glyphosate, organophosphates, and mold as compounding factors in inflammatory load.
• The relationship between GLP-1 medications and fat transfer surgery, and the facts women need before making decisions about microdosing or off-label use.
• Fat transfer to the breast versus implants, correct placement for fat survival, and the dietary and training factors that compromise the result.
• DEXA scans as a surgical candidacy tool and the muscle and bone loss risks of GLP-1 use without strength training.
• Underdiagnosed obstructive sleep apnea in women and its connection to Alzheimer's risk.
• Informed consent, the refusal to direct patients toward explant, and the cases turned away when a good outcome cannot be honestly predicted.
• Early investigation as a path away from years of unexplained symptoms.

EPISODE RESOURCES

Clearlight Sauna

Infrared saunas to support detox, lower inflammatory load, and promote deep tissue recovery. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for $400–$600 off.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/ClearlightSauna

HigherDose

PEMF mats, red light therapy, and more to help the body clear toxins, recover, and reduce chronic inflammation.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/HigherDose

Fatty15

An essential fatty acid supplement that supports cellular health and helps regulate inflammation. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 10% OFF.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Fatty15

Immunolytics

At-home mold testing to identify hidden environmental factors that may impact immune health.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Immunolytics

Thrive

Online membership for clean, toxin-free groceries and pantry staples at reduced prices.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/ThriveMarket

CONNECT WITH THE GUEST

Website:

https://www.drrobertwhitfield.com/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/robertwhitfieldmd

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/DrRobertWhitfield

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@robertwhitfieldmd

KEYWORDS

Abreast implant illness, explant surgery, capsulectomy, bacterial biofilm, chronic inflammation, implant infection, fat transfer, GLP-1, hyperbaric therapy, lymphatic drainage, mold toxicity, gut health, microbiome, muscle loss, bone density, glyphosate, informed consent, implant removal, silicone implants