Psychedelics like ketamine, psilocybin, and MDMA are emerging as promising treatments for mood disorders that don’t respond to standard care. What has research shown using these compounds as therapeutic tools? How can psychedelics work in the brain to alleviate mental health symptoms? We spoke with Janette Leal, MD, a board-certified psychiatrist, about the psychedelics currently being studied, their potential to safely and effectively ease symptoms in supervised settings, how they may help rewire thought patterns, common misconceptions about psychedelic-assisted therapy, and why working with a trained clinician is essential.

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Medications are designed to work best when stored at the right temperature, but heat can affect their potency and even increase health risks. How exactly can heat compromise the effectiveness of certain medications? What heat-related illnesses or side effects can occur during periods of high temperatures? We spoke with Shellyza Sajwani, pharmacist and co-founder of Climaceutics Health Solutions, about how extreme heat can damage medications and increase the risk of side effects such as dehydration, kidney issues, or reduced sweating ability. She shares how to store medications safely, protect yourself during hot weather, and why your pharmacist and prescriber are key partners in medication management.

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How can we improve care for older adults while supporting their independence and dignity? In this episode, we speak with Ellen Flaherty, PhD, MSN, APRN, vice president of the Dartmouth Health Geriatric Center of Excellence, about the 4 M’s of age-friendly care: what matters, medication, mind, and mobility. She shares how older adults can advocate for their needs, why proper medication management is vital, and what red flags caregivers should watch for, including delirium and cognitive changes. We also explore the importance of staying active and resources like the My Health Checklist, a workbook to help adults 65+ prepare for healthcare visits. Discover how the 4 M’s can guide more personalized care that honors each person’s goals.

Check out The John A. Hartford Foundation at https://www.johnahartford.org/.

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How many pesticides are on the produce we eat – and what can we do about it every day? We spoke with Alexis Temkin, PhD, senior toxicologist at the Environmental Working Group (EWG), for an overview of EWG’s 2025 Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce. We unpacked everything from the “Clean Fifteen” and “Dirty Dozen” lists to the most common chemicals of concern, the impact of choosing organic vs. non-organic, and how to properly wash your fruits and vegetables to help reduce surface pesticide residue.

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What is hidradenitis suppurativa (HS)? Why is it often misdiagnosed, and what does effective care look like? We spoke to Jennifer L. Hsiao, MD, dermatologist and director of the Hidradenitis Suppurativa Specialty Clinic at USC, to break down what HS really is, why a multidisciplinary team matters, and how new treatments, including FDA-approved biologics, are changing the landscape. We also hear from Athena Gierbolini, president of Hope for HS, who shares her 14-year journey with HS, from painful trial-and-error treatments to finding life-changing support and specialist care. Join us as we learn how to advocate for better care and find the right resources to manage this complex and chronic condition.

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Approximately 31 million people in the U.S., or 10% of the population, live with some form of eczema. But what are the different types of eczema, and why do certain types affect some people more than others? We spoke with Candrice R. Heath, MD, FAAP, FAAD, adult and pediatric dermatologist, about the eczema umbrella, treatment options, the surprising role of lifestyle factors like stress and sleep, the importance of tracking your triggers, and how to effectively partner with your doctor when it comes to managing your skin.

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While birth control is widely used today, misinformation around it still persists. Questions like: Will birth control affect my future fertility? Does it cause weight gain? And how do I know which option is right for me? We spoke with Natalie Crawford, MD, fertility doctor and co-founder of Fora Fertility, about the full spectrum of birth control – from hormonal to non-hormonal options. She breaks down common side effects, key health conditions to discuss with your doctor, and how to choose the best method for each stage of life, from adolescence to postpartum to menopause.

Additional resources:
https://www.bedsider.org/

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Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease in which the body’s immune system attacks the protective layer around the nerves. It affects more than 2.8 million people worldwide, most often younger adults between ages 20 and 40 –  with women significantly more affected. What are the symptoms? What should newly diagnosed individuals know? In this episode, Robert Bermel, MD, Director of the Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis at the Cleveland Clinic, explains what happens after an MS diagnosis, from early signs and the importance of timely treatment to lifestyle strategies and long-term planning. We also hear from Hanna Jones, a 31-year-old MS advocate and blogger, who shares her personal journey of being diagnosed and how education helped her face her diagnosis. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, a caregiver, or simply curious, this episode offers insight, guidance, and hope.

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Why does jealousy sometimes creep into our friendships? How can we recognize when a slow drift is turning into a silent goodbye? And how can we strengthen communication and emotional connection with our friends? We speak with Lia Love Avellino, LCSW, modern love therapist and founder of Spoke Circles in Brooklyn, about the outside pressures friendships face, the importance of renegotiating connection, breaking the jealousy-shame cycle, and clarifying our needs in supportive, mutual ways. Friendships are vital to emotional wellness, so tune in to learn how to better check in with your friends and yourself.

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Cancer therapies can save lives, but they often come with tough side effects that aren’t always fully addressed. What side effects should you expect from cancer treatments – and how can you manage them? We sat down with Elizabeth J. Cathcart-Rake, MD, an oncologist at Mayo Clinic, to explore how these effects impact patients’ physical, emotional, and financial well-being – and why quality of life deserves just as much attention. From nausea and fatigue to neuropathy and sexual side effects, we explore the most common fears and how to talk with your doctor. You’ll learn how different therapies (chemo, hormonal, immunotherapy, targeted therapy) impact your body, plus practical, evidence-based tools to help you feel like yourself during treatment.

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