Irsfeld Pharmacy: The Optimal You Podcast

Medications can play an important role in helping us manage health conditions and improve quality of life. But a medication that made sense when it was first prescribed may not always be necessary forever.

In Episode 65 of the Irsfeld Pharmacy Optimal You Podcast, pharmacist Steve Irsfeld is joined by PharmD candidate Kamryn Kuntz to talk about deprescribing medications - the planned and supervised process of reducing or stopping a medication when it may no longer be beneficial or necessary, or when the risks begin to outweigh the benefits.

Steve and Kamryn discuss why medication needs can change over time and some of the warning signs that may warrant a closer look, including dizziness, fatigue, drowsiness, low blood pressure, medication side effects, and duplicate therapies.

They also explore why some medications should not be stopped abruptly, making it especially important to involve your pharmacist and healthcare provider in the process.

Listen to Episode 65 to hear Steve and Kamryn’s full conversation about deprescribing and why periodically taking a fresh look at your medication list can be an important part of your health journey.

As a thank-you for listening, receive 25% off one product of your choice using code KamrynKuntzPodcast65 for in-store or phone orders. Offer is valid for 60 days after the podcast air date.

If you would like help reviewing your medication list and discussing potential deprescribing opportunities, contact Irsfeld Pharmacy to schedule an appointment with our team.

This content provides general information about health and health-related subjects and is not intended as medical advice or as a substitute for professional medical expertise, diagnosis, or treatment.

Be vigilant about your health.

Hair loss can be frustrating, emotional, and difficult to navigate—especially when there are so many products and treatments promising results. In Episode 64 of the Irsfeld Pharmacy Optimal You Podcast, Pharmacist Steve Irsfeld sits down with physician assistant Morgan Bernhardt of Simply You Wellness in Bismarck, North Dakota, to explore a more personalized approach to understanding hair loss.

Morgan discusses several common types of hair loss, including androgenetic alopecia (pattern hair loss), telogen effluvium, and alopecia areata, as well as potential contributing factors such as thyroid disorders, hormonal changes, stress, rapid weight loss, and nutritional deficiencies.

The conversation also explores the TrichoTest, a pharmacogenetic test designed to help healthcare providers personalize hair-loss treatment based on genetic factors that may influence an individual's response to different therapies. Steve and Morgan discuss how this information can complement a patient's medical history, laboratory testing, and clinical evaluation when developing an individualized treatment plan.

You'll also hear their discussion about:

Whether you're experiencing increased shedding, thinning hair, or simply want to better understand the science behind today's hair-growth options, this episode offers a practical introduction to the importance of personalized care rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.

Listen to Episode 64 and learn what questions you may want to ask your healthcare provider before choosing your next hair-loss treatment.

This podcast is provided for general educational and informational purposes and is not intended to replace individualized medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional.

What happens when fatigue, low motivation, weight gain, and decreased performance aren't just "part of getting older"?

In this episode of the Optimal You Podcast, pharmacist Steve Irsfeld welcomes back Mick Peterson, DNP, FNP-C, founder of HealthNow Clinic, for an in-depth conversation about men's health and the many factors that influence how men feel and function. While testosterone is often the first thing people think about, this discussion explores the bigger picture—including stress, nutrition, sleep, metabolic health, medications, and lifestyle habits that can all contribute to declining health.

Steve and Mick discuss:

Why more younger men are experiencing symptoms of low testosterone

The importance of identifying the root cause before starting hormone therapy

How stress and cortisol can impact hormone balance

Medications that may contribute to low testosterone

Testosterone testing, treatment options, and monitoring

Fertility considerations for younger men

Common symptoms men shouldn't ignore

Why a proactive, personalized approach leads to better long-term health

Whether you're experiencing symptoms yourself or simply want to better understand men's health, this episode offers practical insights into taking control of your health before small issues become bigger problems.

Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider regarding your individual health concerns.

Many people believe bladder leaks, pelvic pain, hemorrhoids, or discomfort after pregnancy are simply a normal part of life, but they don't have to be.

In this episode of the Optimal You Podcast, pharmacist Steve Irsfeld welcomes pelvic health physical therapist Lauren Bischof, DPT, from Jones PT for an eye-opening conversation about pelvic floor health. Lauren explains why pelvic floor dysfunction affects both men and women, discusses common conditions such as urinary incontinence, pelvic pain, prostate-related concerns, hemorrhoids, pregnancy and postpartum recovery, and shares how physical therapy can provide effective, non-invasive treatment options.

Together, they explore why these conditions are often underreported, how to recognize symptoms, and why asking uncomfortable questions is one of the most important steps toward better health.

Whether you're experiencing symptoms yourself or simply want to learn more, this episode offers practical advice, encouragement, and hope that you don't have to accept discomfort as "normal."

🎧 Listener Bonus: As a thank-you for listening, use promo code PODCAST62 to receive 25% OFF a nutritional product of your choice at Irsfeld Pharmacy.

In this episode of Optimal You, Steve Irsfeld welcomes a very special guest—his daughter, Dr. Molly Irsfeld—as she returns home to join Irsfeld Pharmacy as a third-generation pharmacist.

Molly shares her journey from working in a high-volume retail pharmacy setting in Minneapolis to making the decision to return to independent pharmacy—and what ultimately drove that change. From burnout and time constraints to rediscovering meaningful patient care, this conversation highlights the evolving landscape of pharmacy and the importance of connection in healthcare.

Together, they discuss:

This episode offers a candid, behind-the-scenes look at pharmacy today—and a hopeful perspective on where it’s headed.

In Episode 60 of the Optimal You Podcast, pharmacist Steve Irsfeld sits down with occupational therapist and certified lymphedema specialist Haley Peters from Therapy Solutions in Dickinson to explore the often-overlooked lymphatic system and why it plays such a vital role in overall health.

Together, they discuss what lymphedema is, common causes of swelling, how cancer treatments can impact lymph flow, and why early intervention matters. Haley also shares practical tips for improving lymphatic drainage through movement, compression therapy, massage techniques, and healthy lifestyle habits.

Whether you or a loved one struggles with swelling, circulation concerns, or simply wants to better understand the body’s “hidden” drainage system, this episode delivers helpful insights in an easy-to-understand conversation. Plus, Steve shares a special listener discount available through the Irsfeld Pharmacy online store.

In Episode 59 of the Optimal You Podcast, host Steve Irsfeld welcomes PharmD Danielle Nelson for an in-depth conversation about “sophisticated supplements” - advanced nutritional products designed to support energy, gut health, immune function, inflammation, and healthy aging.

Danielle shares her personal journey into functional medicine, discussing how years of unexplained fatigue led her to explore nutrition, mitochondrial health, gut function, and targeted supplementation beyond traditional pharmacy care.

Together, Steve and Danielle break down the science behind several cutting-edge supplements, including:

The episode also explores:

Danielle also shares her top health recommendations for nearly everyone: focusing on quality multivitamins, vitamin D, protein intake, and filling nutritional gaps created by modern diets and depleted soil quality.

Listeners who stay through the end of the episode receive a special 25% discount code for the Irsfeld Pharmacy online store.

Whether you're interested in supplements, holistic wellness, functional medicine, or simply optimizing your health, this episode delivers practical education in a clear and approachable way.

🎧 Listen now and learn how targeted supplementation may help support your journey toward becoming the Optimal You.

In Episode 58 of the Optimal You Podcast, pharmacist Steve Irsfeld sits down with sports dietitian Tavis Piattoly from OmegaQuant Labs to explore the powerful role of omega-3 fatty acids in both athletic performance and everyday health.

Together, they break down:

You’ll also hear real-world insights on recovery, concussion support, longevity, and simple steps you can take today to improve your health without feeling overwhelmed.

Whether you’re an athlete, an active adult, or just looking to stay healthier longer, this episode offers practical, science-backed guidance you can use right away.

🎁 Bonus: Listen to the end for a special offer from Irsfeld Pharmacy as a thank-you for tuning in.

In this episode, we sit down with nurse practitioner Hailey Schiele, owner of Thrivin’ Health, to explore a growing area of integrative medicine—neurofeedback and brain health.

Haley shares how neurofeedback works, who it may benefit, and how it can be used to support conditions like anxiety, ADHD, brain fog, sleep issues, and post-concussion symptoms. We also discuss the importance of addressing foundational health factors such as sleep, nutrition, and inflammation when improving cognitive function.

You’ll hear real patient success stories, learn how brainwave patterns impact daily life, and gain practical insights into how small changes—like improving sleep—can have a lasting impact on your overall health.

Whether you're dealing with mental fatigue, looking to improve focus, or simply want to better understand your brain, this episode offers a clear and approachable look at a powerful, non-invasive tool for cognitive wellness.

https://thrivinhealth.com/neurofeedback

In this episode of the Optimal You Podcast, pharmacist Steve Irsfeld sits down with Jill Rowe, founder of Rowe Casa Organics, to explore how a simple kitchen remedy turned into a rapidly growing wellness brand.

Jill shares her journey from speech therapist and mom of three to entrepreneur, driven by a desire to find natural, trustworthy solutions for her family’s health. What started with homemade elderberry syrup quickly evolved into a full line of products designed to support immune health, hormones, sleep, and more.

Together, Steve and Jill dive into:

Jill also shares powerful insights on taking a practical, step-by-step approach to improving your health - without overwhelm.

If you’ve ever wondered how to incorporate more natural options into your routine while still working alongside your healthcare provider, this conversation offers a grounded, real-world perspective.

As always, this episode is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Be sure to consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your health routine.

🎁 Listener Offer: