In this powerful conversation, Matteo Esposito shares the story that shaped his mission to help others reclaim their lives from addiction and mental illness. Matteo is a Certified Addiction Recovery Coach and co-founder of Invisible Challenge, a movement focused on ending the stigma around invisible illnesses including bipolar disorder, substance use disorders, and suicidality.

Mark and Matteo explore the difficult reality of dual diagnosis, the limits of our current system, and the lived experience behind manic episodes, depression, and the pull of addiction. Matteo explains how suffering, time, and honest acceptance led him to recovery, and why connection is often stronger than willpower alone.

They discuss the gaps in psychiatry, the trial and error of medications, the danger of self-medication, the unpredictable nature of relapse, and the emotional toll on families who walk beside a loved one in crisis. Matteo also opens up about rebuilding his life, repairing relationships, and using his lived experience to support others who are still trying to find their footing.

This is an honest and deeply human look at mental illness, addiction, and what it truly takes to heal.

Matteo Esposito, Certified Addiction Recovery Coach : https://invisiblechallenge.org/

Episode Takeaways 

1. Invisible illnesses are often dismissed because they do not show up on scans, yet they can be as disabling as any physical condition.
2. Dual diagnosis is complex. Treating bipolar disorder and addiction separately does not work. Both must be addressed together.
3. Self medication hides deeper problems. Many people use alcohol or cannabis to manage anxiety, insomnia, or early psychiatric symptoms.
4. Mania has clear warning signs. Loss of sleep, high energy, pressured speech, and risky decisions are red flags that should never be ignored.
5. Addiction is a brain illness. It is not a moral failure, not a weakness, and not a lack of willpower.
6. Suffering often precedes change. For many people, the turning point comes only after repeated lows and accumulated exhaustion.
7. Connection is protective. Recovery becomes possible when someone is surrounded by people who understand the journey.
8. Professional guidance matters. Matteo credits his progress to finally following recommendations from clinicians instead of relying on his own judgment.
9. Peer support accelerates healing. Helping others in recovery strengthens sobriety and reduces the risk of relapse.
10. Families carry their own burden. Loving someone with addiction or mental illness is heavy, complex, and often painful.
11. Recovery is a daily commitment. Even years later, it is maintained one decision and one day at a time.
12. Hope is a vital tool. Matteo reminds anyone struggling that change is possible, suffering is not permanent, and no one is alone in the process.

Episode Timestamps

 01:27 – Matteo describes entering the mental health system and navigating inconsistent levels of care.
02:21 – Mark breaks down substance use disorders and explains the limits of current treatments.
03:38 – Matteo discusses early experiences with psychiatrists and the difficulty of treating substance use and bipolar disorder together.
04:39 – Matteo explains when his mania first escalated and how substances intensified the symptoms.
05:49 – Matteo talks about the relationship between depression, self-medication, and worsening addiction.
06:11 – Mark explains why people self-medicate with alcohol or cannabis when their mind starts to unravel.
07:11 – Matteo shares how he gained partial stability with bipolar disorder before realizing his addiction was growing.
08:20 – Matteo describes the moment he recognized he had lost control over weed and alcohol.
09:57 – Mark explains the difference between mood disorders and personality disorders and why bipolar is often misunderstood.
10:23 – Matteo identifies the behavioral warning signs of mania, including loss of sleep, pressured speech, and risky decisions.
12:24 – Mark explains mood-stabilizing therapy and how medications level out extreme highs and lows.
12:47 – Matteo reflects on the importance of connection as the opposite of addiction.
14:30 – Matteo explains why suffering and time were the two forces that finally pushed him toward recovery.
15:54 – Mark outlines why addiction treatment has low success rates and why relapse is common.
17:24 – Matteo discusses peer support and how helping others helps him stay sober.
20:47 – Matteo describes how following professional guidance instead of his own instincts became a turning point.
23:13 – Matteo reflects on repairing relationships with family and how addiction strains loved ones.
25:08 – Matteo discusses how families struggle with the line between love and enabling.
27:29 – Matteo shares words of encouragement for people who feel hopeless in addiction or mental illness.
30:45 – Mark and Matteo discuss therapy, lived experience, and the need for ongoing self-awareness in recovery. 

DISCLAMER >>>>>>    The Ditch Lab Coat podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not serve as a substitute for professional medical services such as medicine or nursing. It does not establish a doctor/patient relationship, and the use of information from the podcast or linked materials is at the user's own risk. The content does not aim to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and users should promptly seek guidance from healthcare professionals for any medical conditions.  

 >>>>>> The expressed opinions belong solely to the hosts and guests, and they do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Hospitals, Clinics, Universities, or any other organization associated with the host or guests.   

 Disclosures: Ditch The Lab Coat podcast is produced by (Podkind.co) and is independent of Dr. Bonta's teaching and research roles at McMaster University, Temerty Faculty of Medicine and Queens University. 

Your voice says more than you think.

In this episode, Dr. Mark Bonta sits down with Dr. Kang Hsu, Chief Medical Officer of Canary Speech, to explore how AI and vocal biomarkers could make the human voice the next vital sign in medicine.

They unpack the science behind this breakthrough, showing how subtle shifts in tone, rhythm, and cadence can reveal early signs of depression, anxiety, Parkinson’s, or cognitive decline long before symptoms appear.

Dr. Hsu shares the origin story of Canary Speech, the research that powers its models, and how voice-based screening is already being used in healthcare, from telehealth visits to smart devices.

It is a look into a future where a 40-second voice sample could help doctors detect disease, personalize treatment, and bring empathy back into digital medicine.

Guest Link : https://canaryspeech.com/

Timestamps

00:00:00 — Welcome and opening reflections
00:00:07 — A candid start: location, context, and conversation
00:01:32 — Meet Dr. Kang Hsu, Chief Medical Officer of Canary Speech
00:02:44 — How voice became medicine: the story behind Canary Speech
00:03:29 — Why this conversation matters to clinicians and patients alike
00:04:05 — Making science accessible: breaking down complex ideas
00:05:59 — Behind the mic: how each episode comes together
00:06:59 — Keeping it real: refining, revising, and staying authentic
00:08:00 — Can your voice reveal your health? The rise of vocal biomarkers
00:12:00 — From telehealth to wearables: real-world applications
00:18:00 — The uphill climb: innovation vs. healthcare resistance
00:24:00 — The road ahead: what the future of voice in medicine could look like
00:30:00 — Closing thoughts and a glimpse into what’s next

Episode Takeaways

1. Voice as a Vital Sign
Your voice holds more data than you realize. Subtle changes in tone and rhythm can reveal early signs of depression, anxiety, or even cognitive decline.

2. Objectivity Through AI
Canary Speech uses vocal biomarkers to turn speech into measurable data, giving clinicians objective insight where surveys and self-reporting fall short.

3. New Frontiers in Telehealth
Voice analysis can run quietly in the background of virtual visits and smart devices, creating a noninvasive way to monitor mental and physical health between appointments.

4. The Challenge of Change
Healthcare moves slowly. Adoption depends on awareness, trust, and showing how accessible technology like this can ease strain on overburdened systems.

5. A Future Built on Listening
In time, voice may join heart rate and blood pressure as a standard vital sign. It can help detect disease earlier and make care more personal, not less.

DISCLAMER >>>>>>    The Ditch Lab Coat podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not serve as a substitute for professional medical services such as medicine or nursing. It does not establish a doctor/patient relationship, and the use of information from the podcast or linked materials is at the user's own risk. The content does not aim to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and users should promptly seek guidance from healthcare professionals for any medical conditions.  

 >>>>>> The expressed opinions belong solely to the hosts and guests, and they do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Hospitals, Clinics, Universities, or any other organization associated with the host or guests.   

 Disclosures: Ditch The Lab Coat podcast is produced by (Podkind.co) and is independent of Dr. Bonta's teaching and research roles at McMaster University, Temerty Faculty of Medicine and Queens University. 

Welcome back to Ditch the Labcoat. This week, host Dr. Mark Bonta sits down with Dr. Elliot Justin, emergency physician, innovator, and founder of FirmTech, for a conversation that’s equal parts fascinating, funny, and paradigm-shifting. Together, they explore a topic that most people find awkward to talk about—but everyone is curious about: male sexual health.

Dr. Justin shares how a personal injury and a deep curiosity about human physiology led him to develop an unexpected form of wearable technology—an erection ring that can not only enhance sexual performance but also collect valuable health data. Beneath the humor and candor lies something revolutionary: nocturnal erections, it turns out, may be one of the most powerful predictors of cardiovascular health we’ve been overlooking.

In this episode, Dr. Bonta and Dr. Justin unpack what it means when men stop getting morning erections, how this can serve as an early warning sign for heart disease, and why the term “erectile dysfunction” might need to be retired altogether. They explore the complex interplay between vascular, neurological, and psychological factors that drive sexual performance; and how rebranding “dysfunction” into erectile fitness reframes the conversation around men’s health, confidence, and relationships.

From bedside humor to hard science, Dr. Justin reveals how FirmTech’s technology has already identified hidden cardiac disease in users, improved relationships, and empowered men to take charge of their health in a completely new way. The discussion ranges from cardiovascular physiology to the social stigma surrounding male sexual health—and how technology might just be the bridge that makes it easier to talk about.

If you’ve ever wondered what your body might be trying to tell you, why sex can be one of medicine’s most underused diagnostic tools, or how innovation can transform intimacy and health alike, this episode is for you.

Let’s ditch the lab coat and get real about the science—and future—of erections.

Dr. Elliot Justin, MD, FACeP, CEO of FirmTech
https://myfirmtech.com

Episode Timestamps 

01:00 Introduction to Health Metrics
02:56 The Journey to Sexual Health Technology
05:48 Understanding Nocturnal Erections
09:13 The Role of Vascular Health
11:57 Redefining Erectile Dysfunction
14:54 The Impact of Technology on Sexual Health
17:53 The Importance of Venous Return
21:06 Patient Experiences and Relationship Dynamics
24:02 The Power of Data in Sexual Health
26:56 Safety and Usage of the Technology
29:57 Future of Sexual Health Screening
32:54 Concluding Thoughts on Sexual Health

Episode Takeaways

1. Nocturnal erections can serve as a leading indicator of cardiovascular health, offering a non-invasive way to monitor heart health.
2. The technology developed by Elliot provides a dual-purpose solution: tracking nocturnal erections and serving as an erection ring to maintain sexual performance.
3. Elliot's personal journey from emergency medicine to developing this technology highlights the importance of addressing sexual health as a vital component of overall well-being.
4. The conversation challenges the stigma around erectile dysfunction, advocating for a shift towards discussing "erectile fitness" to promote a positive and proactive approach to sexual health.
5. The data collected from the wearable technology can help differentiate between psychogenic and physiological causes of erectile issues, providing valuable insights for personalized treatment.
6. Elliot emphasizes the need for a personalized approach to health, where individuals can use data to understand their unique health needs and make informed decisions.
7. The episode underscores the potential of wearable technology to disrupt traditional medical practices by providing actionable insights and empowering individuals to take control of their health.
8. Dr. Mark Bonta and Elliot discuss the broader implications of their work, suggesting that it could lead to new standards of care for men over 45 or those with specific health conditions.
9. The conversation highlights the importance of open dialogue about sexual health, encouraging listeners to consider the benefits of integrating sexual health monitoring into their wellness routines.
10. Elliot's innovative approach to sexual health technology is positioned as a tool for enhancing relationships and improving quality of life, beyond just addressing medical concerns.

DISCLAMER >>>>>>    The Ditch Lab Coat podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not serve as a substitute for professional medical services such as medicine or nursing. It does not establish a doctor/patient relationship, and the use of information from the podcast or linked materials is at the user's own risk. The content does not aim to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and users should promptly seek guidance from healthcare professionals for any medical conditions.  

 >>>>>> The expressed opinions belong solely to the hosts and guests, and they do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Hospitals, Clinics, Universities, or any other organization associated with the host or guests.   

 Disclosures: Ditch The Lab Coat podcast is produced by (Podkind.co) and is independent of Dr. Bonta's teaching and research roles at McMaster University, Temerty Faculty of Medicine and Queens University. 

Welcome back to Ditch the Labcoat. This week, Dr. Mark Bonta sits down with Dr. Filippo Ongaro. He is a physician, bestselling author, and former flight surgeon at the European Space Agency who joins Dr. Bonta in the studio to explore a topic that’s redefining how we think about aging: the pursuit of healthspan over lifespan.

In a world obsessed with biohacking, supplements, and quick fixes, Dr. Ongaro brings the conversation back to fundamentals; how to age strong, not just long. Drawing from his years working with astronauts exposed to the accelerated aging effects of space travel, he reveals how lessons from outer space can transform how we live here on Earth.

Together, Dr. Bonta and Dr. Ongaro unpack what it really means to live well into our later decades; why preserving muscle is the key to longevity, how sleep acts as free medicine, and why fitness, nutrition, and environment are the true “anti-aging” tools. They challenge the hype around lifespan extension and focus instead on the daily, unsexy habits: movement, connection, consistency - that have the biggest impact on well-being.

Dr. Ongaro also shares how his work has evolved to emphasize coaching, where he works to help people bridge the gap between knowing what to do and actually doing it. From setting up your home to promote healthy choices, to rethinking gratification, he offers practical, science-informed ways to turn small behavioral changes into lifelong transformation.

If you’ve ever wondered whether living to 100 is the goal; or if living well to 80 might be the better and more realistic one, this episode will reshape your understanding of aging, motivation, and what it truly means to thrive over time.

Let’s ditch the lab coat and get real about living longer AND stronger.

Check out Dr. Filippo Ongaro, MD Youtube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@DrFilippoOngaro

Episode Timestamps

02:00 Exploring Biohacking and Longevity
03:08 The Importance of Healthspan vs. Lifespan
06:11 Principles of a Good Healthspan
09:06 Habit Change and Behavioral Science
11:49 Creating a Supportive Environment for Health
15:08 Lessons from Astronauts and Aging
20:00 Motivating Change in Health Behaviors
30:05 The Future of Longevity and Healthspan

Episode Takeaways

1. Biohacking is about more than just extending lifespan; it's about enhancing healthspan and quality of life.
2. Fitness plays a crucial role in maintaining a high quality of life and can significantly impact healthspan.
3. Habit change is essential for long-term health benefits, and coaching can be a powerful tool in facilitating this change.
4. The lessons learned from astronauts about muscle preservation and stress management can be applied to everyday life.
5. Simple lifestyle changes, like improving sleep quality and home ergonomics, can have a profound impact on health.
6. The focus should be on applying existing knowledge about healthspan rather than seeking new, unproven methods.
7. Behavioral change is key to improving health outcomes and should be integrated into medical practices.
8. The concept of healthspan should become a common part of medical conversations to drive meaningful change.
9. Practical interventions, like having a home gym, can be accessible and effective for many people.
10. The future of longevity lies in making healthspan a universal focus, not just for biohackers or early adopters.

DISCLAMER >>>>>>    The Ditch Lab Coat podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not serve as a substitute for professional medical services such as medicine or nursing. It does not establish a doctor/patient relationship, and the use of information from the podcast or linked materials is at the user's own risk. The content does not aim to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and users should promptly seek guidance from healthcare professionals for any medical conditions.  

 >>>>>> The expressed opinions belong solely to the hosts and guests, and they do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Hospitals, Clinics, Universities, or any other organization associated with the host or guests.   

 Disclosures: Ditch The Lab Coat podcast is produced by (Podkind.co) and is independent of Dr. Bonta's teaching and research roles at McMaster University, Temerty Faculty of Medicine and Queens University. 

In this week’s episode of Ditch The Labcoat, host Dr. Mark Bonta sits down with gastroenterologist and podcast host Dr. Neil Parikh—known from The Gut Doctor Podcast—for a fascinating journey through one of the most complex and misunderstood systems in the human body: the gut.

Together, they unpack the modern obsession with “gut health,” the hype around the microbiome, and why everyone from wellness influencers to scientists seems to think the key to longevity lies somewhere between our mouth and anus. But this conversation goes far deeper than digestion—it explores how what we eat, how we live, and even how we think shapes our gut and, in turn, our overall health.

Dr. Parikh blends science with relatable insights from his life as both a physician and a dad, sharing how early childhood experiences, diet, sleep, stress, and even how we talk about “tummy troubles” influence lifelong health. The discussion spans from the everyday nuisances of bloating and irritable bowel syndrome to the more serious red flags of inflammatory bowel disease—and the grey area in between that frustrates so many patients (and doctors).

You’ll hear about why our guts become more sensitive with age, why sugary drinks can wreak havoc on our internal ecosystem, and how something as simple as portion control—or a good night’s sleep—can dramatically improve digestive wellness. Along the way, Dr. Bonta and Dr. Parikh also challenge the commercialization of gut health, questioning whether expensive probiotic supplements or social media trends actually stand up to science.

If you’ve ever wondered what your microbiome is really doing, whether yogurt is worth the hype, or why your stomach isn’t as resilient as it used to be, this episode will give you the clarity you’ve been craving.

Time to get real about gut health and digest the science while crapping out the myth.

Listen to The Gut Doctor Podcast by Dr. Neil Parikh, MD
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-gut-doctor/id1605040922    

Episode Timestamps 

03:35 The Role of Gut Microbiome in Health
09:16 The Importance of Gut Flora and Its Functions
17:45 Dietary Choices and Their Impact on Gut Health
21:08 Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Spectrum of Symptoms
30:23 Distinguishing Between IBS and Inflammatory Bowel Disease
34:44 Current Understanding of Inflammatory Bowel Disease
37:09 Practical Dietary Advice for Gut Health

Episode Takeaways

1. Gut health is a broad term that encompasses various aspects of digestive well-being, often misunderstood even by medical professionals.
2. The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in digestion and overall health, but our understanding of it is still evolving.
3. Lifestyle factors such as diet, sleep, and mental health significantly impact gut health and can influence conditions like irritable bowel syndrome.
4. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to gut health; individual experiences and symptoms can vary widely.
5. Probiotics and fermented foods like yogurt can support gut health, but their effectiveness may vary depending on individual conditions.
6. Understanding the difference between normal digestive discomfort and symptoms that require medical attention is key to managing gut health effectively.
7. The conversation around gut health is becoming more open, allowing for better management and understanding of digestive issues.
8. Cultural and dietary habits, such as those observed in European "blue zones," may offer insights into maintaining a healthy gut.
9. The relationship between gut health and other conditions, such as autoimmune diseases, is an area of ongoing research and interest.
10. Personalized approaches to diet and lifestyle can help manage and improve gut health over time
4. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to gut health; individual experiences and symptoms can vary widely.
5. Probiotics and fermented foods like yogurt can support gut health, but their effectiveness may vary depending on individual conditions.
6. Understanding the difference between normal digestive discomfort and symptoms that require medical attention is key to managing gut health effectively.
7. The conversation around gut health is becoming more open, allowing for better management and understanding of digestive issues.
8. Cultural and dietary habits, such as those observed in European "blue zones," may offer insights into maintaining a healthy gut.
9. The relationship between gut health and other conditions, such as autoimmune diseases, is an area of ongoing research and interest.
10. Personalized approaches to diet and lifestyle can help manage and improve gut health over time.

DISCLAMER >>>>>>    The Ditch Lab Coat podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not serve as a substitute for professional medical services such as medicine or nursing. It does not establish a doctor/patient relationship, and the use of information from the podcast or linked materials is at the user's own risk. The content does not aim to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and users should promptly seek guidance from healthcare professionals for any medical conditions.  

 >>>>>> The expressed opinions belong solely to the hosts and guests, and they do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Hospitals, Clinics, Universities, or any other organization associated with the host or guests.   

 Disclosures: Ditch The Lab Coat podcast is produced by (Podkind.co) and is independent of Dr. Bonta's teaching and research roles at McMaster University, Temerty Faculty of Medicine and Queens University. 

This episode applies a clinical lens to the mindset first philosophy shared by Dr. Cassidy Preston in Part 1. 

In this insightful episode, Dr. Mark Bonta, Dr. Sebastian Mafeld, and Dr. Cassidy Preston delve into the intersection of mindset and medicine. They explore how principles from sports psychology can enhance medical practice, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, presence, and continuous learning. Through personal anecdotes and professional experiences, they discuss the transformative power of coaching and the potential for integrating these strategies into medical education. Join us for a thought-provoking conversation that challenges traditional paradigms and inspires a new approach to healthcare.

Our Guests :
Dr. Sebastian Mafeld, Vascular & Interventional Radiologist.
Cassidy Preston, PhD in Sport & Performance Psychology.
https://cepmindset.com/

DISCLAMER >>>>>>    The Ditch Lab Coat podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not serve as a substitute for professional medical services such as medicine or nursing. It does not establish a doctor/patient relationship, and the use of information from the podcast or linked materials is at the user's own risk. The content does not aim to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and users should promptly seek guidance from healthcare professionals for any medical conditions.  

 >>>>>> The expressed opinions belong solely to the hosts and guests, and they do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Hospitals, Clinics, Universities, or any other organization associated with the host or guests.   

 Disclosures: Ditch The Lab Coat podcast is produced by (Podkind.co) and is independent of Dr. Bonta's teaching and research roles at McMaster University, Temerty Faculty of Medicine and Queens University. 

In this conversation, Dr. Mark Bonta and Cassidy Preston explore the critical role of mental resilience in high-stress environments, particularly in sports and medicine. They discuss Cassidy's journey from being an elite athlete to a coach focused on mental skills training, the evolution of mental coaching in various fields, and the importance of measuring success through mindset rather than just results. The discussion also delves into the concept of the alter ego effect as a transformative tool for performance and the significance of the narrative we tell ourselves in achieving our goals.

 In this conversation, Cassidy Preston and Dr. Mark Bonta explore the concept of alter egos in performance psychology, emphasizing the playful and imaginative aspects of creating an alter ego to enhance confidence and performance. They discuss various unique alter egos adopted by athletes, the importance of confidence in high-pressure situations, and the necessity of reflection in personal and professional growth. Cassidy outlines a three-phase approach to performance mindset, focusing on preparation, execution, and reflection, while also introducing a powerful analogy of jumping off a cliff to illustrate the importance of letting go and trusting one's training.

Key Takeaways 

• Division one athletes receive more coaching on stress than doctors.
• Mindset is crucial for consistent performance in high-pressure situations.
• Practical and personalized mental training is essential for athletes.
• Challenging norms in sports and medicine can lead to better outcomes.
• Mental skills training has evolved significantly in the last few decades.
• Buy-in for mental development is increasing among athletes.
• Subjective measures of confidence and enjoyment are key indicators of success.
• The journey and personal growth are as important as the results.
• The alter ego effect can help athletes tap into their best selves.
• The narrative we tell ourselves shapes our performance and mindset. The playful imagination in performance can enhance creativity.
• Alter egos allow individuals to tap into their unique traits.
• Confidence is a common challenge faced by many performers.
• Preparation is key to reducing anxiety during performance.
• Letting go of control can lead to better performance outcomes.
• Reflection helps in recognizing progress and areas for improvement.
• Owning your wins builds momentum and confidence.
• An inside-out approach fosters a healthier mindset.
• Different situations require different traits and mindsets.
• Developing a mindset-based approach is essential for high performance.

Chapters:

03:11 From Athlete to Coach: A Personal Journey
06:04 The Evolution of Mental Skills Training in Sports
08:55 Measuring Success: The Mindset First Approach
11:51 The Alter Ego Effect: Transforming Performance
14:58 The Journey Over the Result: Finding Meaning in Performance
19:11 The Playful Imagination in Performance Psychology
22:16 Exploring Unique Alter Egos in Athletes
24:31 Confidence and Behavioral Change Through Alter Egos
26:00 An Inside-Out Approach to Performance
30:00 The Three Phases of Performance Mindset
32:55 The Cliff Jump Analogy for Letting Go
35:07 The Importance of Reflection in Performance
39:14 Developing a Mindset-Based Approach to Performance

DISCLAMER >>>>>>    The Ditch Lab Coat podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not serve as a substitute for professional medical services such as medicine or nursing. It does not establish a doctor/patient relationship, and the use of information from the podcast or linked materials is at the user's own risk. The content does not aim to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and users should promptly seek guidance from healthcare professionals for any medical conditions.  

 >>>>>> The expressed opinions belong solely to the hosts and guests, and they do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Hospitals, Clinics, Universities, or any other organization associated with the host or guests.   

 Disclosures: Ditch The Lab Coat podcast is produced by (Podkind.co) and is independent of Dr. Bonta's teaching and research roles at McMaster University, Temerty Faculty of Medicine and Queens University. 

This week's episode will be with Dr. Bijaj Patel a nephrologist who has done amazing work developing transitional dialysis centers.

DISCLAMER >>>>>>    The Ditch Lab Coat podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not serve as a substitute for professional medical services such as medicine or nursing. It does not establish a doctor/patient relationship, and the use of information from the podcast or linked materials is at the user's own risk. The content does not aim to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and users should promptly seek guidance from healthcare professionals for any medical conditions.  

 >>>>>> The expressed opinions belong solely to the hosts and guests, and they do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Hospitals, Clinics, Universities, or any other organization associated with the host or guests.   

 Disclosures: Ditch The Lab Coat podcast is produced by (Podkind.co) and is independent of Dr. Bonta's teaching and research roles at McMaster University, Temerty Faculty of Medicine and Queens University. 

Welcome back to Ditch the Labcoat, where we break down the highs, lows, and real talk of life on the frontlines of medicine. In this episode, Dr. Mark Bonta sits down with Brian Ferguson—a former military special operator and founder of Arena Labs—to explore what it truly means to perform under pressure in today’s healthcare landscape.

Drawing on his unique experience in both military special operations and high performance coaching, Brian unpacks the surprising similarities between the worlds of medicine and the military: relentless stress, long hours, a drive to serve, and the ever-present risk of burnout. Together, Dr. Bonta and Brian dive into actionable, science-backed strategies for stress management, sleep recovery, and resilience—techniques inspired by elite athletes, fighter pilots, and creative professionals, but tailored to the real challenges healthcare workers face every day.

This isn’t just a conversation about burnout or self-care. It’s about honoring the trust society places in clinicians—and learning how to show up at our best for our patients, our teams, and our own families. Whether you’re a seasoned doctor, a new resident, or just someone chasing your own version of peak performance, today’s episode is packed with practical wisdom to help you thrive in high-pressure environments.

Plug in for a thought-provoking, entertaining, and genuinely useful discussion that just might change the way you approach your work—and your life.

Episode Lessons 

1. Sleep Is Foundational Performance — Prioritizing sleep is essential for peak performance, decision-making, and longevity—especially in high-stress healthcare environments.
2. Shift Culture, Not Just Schedules — The outdated badge-of-honor mentality around sleep deprivation in healthcare must be replaced with a performance-focused narrative.
3. Embrace Science-backed Recovery — Active recovery—intentional downtime and enjoyable activities—significantly restores energy, resilience, and emotional health for clinicians.
4. Measure What Matters Regularly — Consistent tracking of sleep, stress, and recovery using wearables helps target and improve health and performance outcomes.
5. Performance Tools Are Transferrable — Techniques from elite athletics and military training can greatly benefit healthcare professionals facing similar high-pressure demands.
6. Early Adoption Builds Resilience — Learning and practicing high-performance skills early in medical training equips clinicians to handle future stress more effectively.
7. Community Strengthens Well-being — Strong teams and shared purpose provide essential support, prevent isolation, and buffer against the stresses of clinical practice.
8. Reframe Burnout for Growth — Focusing on human flourishing, not just preventing burnout, fosters a culture of aspiration and ongoing improvement in healthcare.
9. Healthcare Deserves Elite Support — Division 1 athletes have more performance resources than most clinicians; bridging this gap is vital to sustainable healthcare excellence.

Episode Timestamps 

03:58 – The Alchemist: Lessons for Medical Training
09:20 – Military Fiction's Team-Based Allure
12:23 – Healthcare and Military Similarities
15:24 – Trust and Nuance in Medicine
17:06 – Sleep: The Key to Performance
20:18 – Recovery Beyond Medicine
25:07 – Evolving Healthcare Performance Strategies
29:01 – Science-Based Human Performance Tools
30:36 – Real-Time Solutions to Burnout
33:13 – Clinician-Led Decisions vs. Wellness Trends
38:08 – Decline of Team Spirit in Healthcare
39:14 – Unlocking Personal Performance Tools
44:06 – Redefining Healthcare Performance Norms
47:30 – Fostering Sustainable Peak Performance

DISCLAMER >>>>>>    The Ditch Lab Coat podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not serve as a substitute for professional medical services such as medicine or nursing. It does not establish a doctor/patient relationship, and the use of information from the podcast or linked materials is at the user's own risk. The content does not aim to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and users should promptly seek guidance from healthcare professionals for any medical conditions.  

 >>>>>> The expressed opinions belong solely to the hosts and guests, and they do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Hospitals, Clinics, Universities, or any other organization associated with the host or guests.   

 Disclosures: Ditch The Lab Coat podcast is produced by (Podkind.co) and is independent of Dr. Bonta's teaching and research roles at McMaster University, Temerty Faculty of Medicine and Queens University.