Advanced Wilderness Life Support (AWLS)

Welcome to “Enhancement or Harm?” where we look into the world of performance-enhancing drugs,  We’ll explore the medical science behind these substances: how they work, what they do to the body, and the very real risks they pose — not just to elite athletes, but to everyday people chasing an edge. Whether it’s the pressure to win, the allure of strength, or the promise of speed, the use of these drugs often comes at a cost — to health, to careers, and to integrity.

In this podcast, we look into the real-life challenges of recognizing and managing heart emergencies in remote environments.  Out here, symptoms don’t wait, and time is not on your side. A heart attack in the backcountry isn’t just a medical emergency — it’s a logistical one. Rapid evacuation can mean the difference between life and death, but it starts with knowing what to look for, how to act fast, and how to prepare before you even lace up your boots.Whether you’re a wilderness guide, avid hiker, or someone who just loves the solitude of remote trails, this show is your lifeline to lifesaving knowledge.

In this episode, we break down the key differences between physical (mineral) and chemical sunscreens—what they are, how they work, and which one might be right for you. You’ll learn about the advantages and disadvantages of each type, including how they perform on different skin types, how they feel, and their impact on both your health and the environment. We talk about the science behind how sunscreens help reduce the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Whether you’re hitting the beach or just running errands, this episode will help you make smarter, safer choices when it comes to sun protection.

In this episode, we dive beneath the surface of the water and explore how sunscreen can have devastating effects on coral reefs. Scientists have discovered that certain common ingredients are toxic to coral larvae and contribute to coral bleaching. We’ll  uncover the science behind the issue, the surprising scale of the impact, and what you can do to protect both your skin and the ocean. Join us as we shine a light on how small changes in our daily routines can help preserve some of the planet’s most vibrant and vital ecosystems.

Think that warm weather is all sunshine and serenity? Think again. Parasites in Paradise looks into the unseen world of warm-weather pathogens lurking in water, soil, and even your favorite vacation foods. From brain-eating amoebas like Naegleria fowleri, to stealthy intestinal invaders like Cyclospora, Cryptosporidium, and parasitic worms, we uncover the science, the symptoms, and the stories behind these dangerous hitchhikers. We look at the biology, outbreaks, and public health implications of parasites that thrive when temperatures rise. Whether you’re a health professional, traveler, or curious listener—you’ll never look at a summer swim the same way again.

In this episode, Dr. Matt Gunderson breaks down everything you need to know about measles—from how it spreads to the unmistakable symptoms that signal its arrival. With outbreaks making headlines in recent years, Dr. Gunderson explores why this highly contagious disease is making a comeback despite the availability of an effective vaccine.

Whether you’re a parent, healthcare worker, or just someone curious about public health, this episode offers clear, evidence-based insights into one of the most preventable—and misunderstood—infectious diseases today.   Stay informed. Stay protected.

In this episode, we jump into the incredible journey of Anna Hoffmann, who clipped into her first skis at just 2 years oldand never looked back. From snowy slopes to the grand stage of the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics, Anna’s path was anything but smooth.

Battling through challenging injuries, breaking barriers as a female in a male-dominated sport, and navigating the relentless mental and physical demands of elite competition, Anna’s story is one of resilience, passion, and fearless determination.

Join us as we explore how a young girl with big dreams climbed her way to the top—jump by jump, fall by fall, and triumph by triumph.

In this episode, guest host Liv Sosnoski looks at the essentials of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus in the wilderness setting. From understanding the autoimmune nature of the disease to explaining how environmental factors like temperature, altitude, and exertion impact blood sugar control, Liv breaks it all down. She covers practical tips on insulin dosing, glucose monitoring, and what to pack before hitting the trail. This episode arms wilderness providers with the tools they need to support Type I diabetes adventurers confidently and safely.

Wild Swim is the story of wild swimming.  Explore the meidcine, science, and soul of swimming in open water—from serene lakes and secret rivers to icy seas and waterfall pools. Here are practical tips so that you can find meaning and joy beneath the surface. Whether you’re curious about chasing the endorphin rush, or just love the idea plunging into nature, The Wild Swim brings you closer to the water—and to yourself.

This is a podcast about the growing impact of wildfire smoke on the places we go to escape in the wilderness. As wildfires grow more frequent and intense, the haze they leave behind stretches far beyond the burn zone—affecting air quality, outdoor recreation, wildlife, and public health.

Listen as Dr. Kathy Vidlock and Joe Dantin explore how wildfire smoke is changing the way we live, breathe, and connect with the natural world and present solutions for navigating a smokier future outdoors.