Optimization Academy with Dr. Greg Jones

In this episode, Dr. Greg Jones sits down with Dr. Sharon Hausman-Cohen, Chief Medical Officer of IntelliXX DNA, to explore how medical genomics is transforming the way we understand heart disease, brain health, inflammation, and metabolism. Most people think genetics stops at traits like eye color or ancestry. Genomics goes much deeper—analyzing how thousands of genes interact to influence cardiovascular risk, cognitive function, clotting tendencies, nutrient metabolism, and chronic inflammation.

Dr. Hausman-Cohen explains why many direct-to-consumer DNA tests fall short, how incomplete interpretation can mislead patients, and why clinician-guided genomic analysis allows for truly personalized care. The conversation also dives into inflammation, methylation, homocysteine, cholesterol myths, caffeine metabolism, mitochondrial health, and women’s unique clotting risks.

Whether you’re trying to reduce your risk of heart disease, improve mental clarity, or understand how your biology responds to diet, supplements, and medications—this episode offers a science-based roadmap for precision health.

📌 About Dr. Sharon Hausman-Cohen

Dr. Sharon Hausman-Cohen has spent over a decade using genomics to deliver personalized medicine. Recognizing that complexity and misinformation were major barriers, she helped develop IntelliXX DNA™, a clinician-focused, evidence-based genomic interpretation platform.

She earned both her Master’s and MD from Harvard Medical School, is board-certified in Family Medicine, a Fellow of the American Board of Integrative and Holistic Medicine, and holds additional board certification in Integrative Medicine. She has practiced full-spectrum and integrative medicine for over 20 years and is a nationally sought-after educator on genomics and precision medicine.

📌Learn more about Dr. Hausman-Cohen

Website: https://www.intellxxdna.com 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharon-h-26185718/ 

📌 Connect with Dr. Greg Jones

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrGregJonesNMDInstagram: @doctorjones_doctorjonesBecome a Patient: https://enovativewellness.com/

Book Dr. Jones to speak at your next event: https://www.drjonesnmd.com/ 

🔗 Want to learn more? Check these resources:

• NIH – Genetics & Precision Medicine:https://www.genome.gov/health/Genomics-and-Medicine

• American Heart Association – Cardiovascular Health & Genetics:https://www.heart.org

• CDC – Genomics & Precision Health:https://www.cdc.gov/genomics

🔬 Chapters

Introduction to genomics & personalized medicine (00:00 - 02:51)

The evolution of IntelliXX DNA (02:51 - 06:01)

Genetics vs. medical genomics (06:01 - 10:06)

Limits of direct-to-consumer DNA tests (10:06 - 15:44)

Genomics & cardiovascular disease risk (15:44 - 21:38)

Inflammation and chronic disease (21:38 - 25:40)

Applying genomic data in practice (25:40 - 30:31)

Thrombotic risk & clotting genes (30:31 - 32:31)

Women’s health & clotting risk (32:31 - 34:13)

Rethinking cholesterol (34:13 - 38:03)

Caffeine metabolism & heart health (38:03 - 41:22)

Homocysteine & methylation (41:22 - 46:32)

Obesity, metabolism & genetics (46:32 - 53:05)

Empowering patients through data (53:05 - 54:50)

Mitochondria & cognitive health (54:50 - 58:59)

Dr. Jones dives into the world of MOTS-C, explaining its potential to enhance metabolic health. He highlights its role in peptide therapy to optimize healing and promote fat loss. This biohacking approach could be a key to longevity science and overall health.CHAPTERS00:00 What MOTS-c Is & Why It’s Unique00:37 How MOTS-c Works in the Cell01:12 Mitochondrial Benefits & Energy Support02:18 Key Benefits: Energy, Metabolism & Fat Loss03:33 MOTS-c for Longevity & Anti-Aging Pathways04:37 Performance, Recovery & Endurance Support05:08 Cognitive Support & Stress Resilience05:38 Why MOTS-c Is Popular in Longevity Protocols06:19 Clinical Uses: Fat Loss, Fatigue & Insulin Resistance06:36 How to Use MOTS-c Safely (Cycling & Dosing Principles)Connect with Dr. Greg JonesInstagram: @doctorjones_doctorjones Enovative Wellness Center: https://enovativewellness.com/ 📣 Subscribe + Follow: Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe and leave a review. 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrJonesNMDTV 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2QrMGwCIGo1kjdezfCyYDK?si=WhH4DW3oQw2k9qkfCtHZdQ ____________________________The information provided in this video is solely for educational and informational purposes. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to diagnose, treat, cure, or manage any health condition. Viewing this content does not establish or imply a doctor–patient relationship. You should not rely on this content as a substitute for consultation with a licensed healthcare professional regarding your own specific medical questions or health concerns. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication, supplement, treatment, or lifestyle program. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have seen in this video. If you believe you may be experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is everywhere—but why does it help some patients and completely fail for others?

In this episode, Dr. Greg Jones sits down with Dr. Joe Albano, a nationally recognized expert in regenerative orthopedics, to break down why not all PRP is created equal. They explore the real reasons PRP fails, including missed diagnoses, incorrect platelet dosing, poor patient preparation, and inadequate after-care protocols.

Dr. Albano explains the true order of regenerative treatments, from PRP to bone marrow–based therapies, and why age alone should never disqualify someone from regenerative care. The conversation also dives into overlooked but critical factors like hormone balance, peptides, nutrition, sleep, body weight, and why common interventions—such as steroid injections and statins—can quietly sabotage joint and tendon healing.

This is a direct, science-based discussion for patients considering PRP, stem cell therapies, or regenerative injections—and for anyone who wants to avoid costly mistakes and understand what actually helps the body heal.

📌 About Dr. Joe Albano

Dr. Joe Albano is a lifelong multisport athlete with experience in hockey, ultra-marathons, cycling, skiing, and endurance sports. He has served as a team physician for organizations including U.S. Speed Skating, U.S. Military Endurance Sports, and Real Salt Lake.

Having personally undergone numerous procedures for his own sports injuries, Dr. Albano is deeply committed to non-surgical solutions for tendon, nerve, and cartilage injuries. He specializes in ultrasound-guided injections, PRP, and bone marrow aspiration, and regularly teaches national courses on regenerative techniques.

His approach emphasizes whole-body optimization, addressing hormones, supplements, sleep, and lifestyle to maximize healing and long-term outcomes.

🔗 Learn more about Dr. Joe Albano Website: https://www.albanoclinic.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjoealbano TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjoealbano

🔗 Connect with Dr. Greg Jones Instagram: @doctorjones_doctorjonesEnovative Wellness Center: https://enovativewellness.com/Book Dr. Jones to speak at your next event:  https://www.drjonesnmd.com/

🔬 Timestamps

Dr. Albano’s background & episode overview (00:00 - 06:40)

PRP vs bone marrow injections (28:11 - 31:06)

Why patients say PRP “didn’t work” (35:40 - 36:23)

When PRP isn’t strong enough (36:24 - 36:41)

Diagnosis errors vs treatment failure (36:42 - 37:59)

What PRP removes—and what shouldn’t be there (38:00 - 39:55)

Platelet dose, blood cells & why PRP can hurt (39:56 - 42:33)

Age myths in regenerative medicine (42:34 - 47:50)

Questions every patient should ask a clinic (47:51 - 53:58)

Sleep, nutrition & protein for healing (53:59 - 56:47)

Hormones, weight, joint stress (56:48 - 62:23)

Why PRP series outperform one-off injections (62:24 - 66:16)

Testosterone, steroids & joint risks (66:17 - 71:53)

Statins and tendon injury (71:54 - 76:40)

Peptides, first steps & closing insights (76:41 - 01:30:52)

Dr. Jones discusses using innovative therapies for patient healing, specifically noting benefits like reduced inflammation and boosted hair growth. He highlights the science behind GHK-Cu, especially its positive effects on skin care and collagen synthesis. Learn more about how GHK-Cu enhances skin.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction to GHK Copper00:46 What Is GHK Copper and How It Works01:34 Skin Health and Anti-Aging Benefits02:15 Healing and Tissue Repair03:08 Hair Growth and Restoration03:42 Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects04:17 Longevity and Gene Activation05:07 How GHK Copper Is Used Clinically06:16 Final Thoughts and TakeawayConnect with Dr. Greg JonesInstagram: @doctorjones_doctorjones Enovative Wellness Center: https://enovativewellness.com/ 📣 Subscribe + Follow: Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe and leave a review. 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrJonesNMDTV 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2QrMGwCIGo1kjdezfCyYDK?si=WhH4DW3oQw2k9qkfCtHZdQ ____________________________The information provided in this video is solely for educational and informational purposes. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to diagnose, treat, cure, or manage any health condition. Viewing this content does not establish or imply a doctor–patient relationship. You should not rely on this content as a substitute for consultation with a licensed healthcare professional regarding your own specific medical questions or health concerns. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication, supplement, treatment, or lifestyle program. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have seen in this video. If you believe you may be experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.

The bicarbonate buffer system plays a critical role in the body’s ability to maintain pH, manage inflammation, and support cellular healing—and in this episode, Dr. Greg Jones sits down with Dr. Mark Sircus to explore how restoring this natural bicarbonate buffering system may help slow aging and support the body’s capacity to heal chronic disease. Drawing from decades of clinical experience, Dr. Sircus explains how Natural Allopathic Medicine integrates bicarbonate therapy with essential nutrients like magnesium and iodine to strengthen resilience and improve physiological function.

A pioneer in natural medicine, Dr. Sircus outlines why bicarbonate is far more than a household compound. He shares its potential applications in kidney health, metabolic regulation, athletic performance, and even as a supportive therapy in cancer care. Throughout the conversation, he challenges conventional medical assumptions while emphasizing safe, evidence-supported approaches people can explore with proper guidance.

Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how the bicarbonate buffer works, why pH balance matters, and how simple, accessible interventions may influence long-term wellness. Whether you're interested in integrative oncology, root-cause medicine, or natural therapies that complement conventional care, this conversation with Dr. Mark Sircus delivers a thoughtful, science-driven perspective on healing the body from the inside out.

📌 About Dr. Mark SircusDr. Mark Sircus, Ac., OMD, DM (P), is a distinguished doctor of oriental and pastoral medicine and the architect of Natural Allopathic Medicine. A prolific author, he distills complex medical concepts into accessible, scientifically grounded guidance. His work blends global medical traditions with modern physiology to address the root causes of disease.

🔗 Learn more about Dr. Mark SircusWebsite: https://drsircus.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/drsircus/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsircus/ X: https://twitter.com/drsircus

🔗 Connect with Dr. Greg Jones

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrGregJonesNMDInstagram: @doctorjones_doctorjonesEnovative Wellness Center: https://enovativewellness.com/

Book Dr. Jones to speak at your next event: https://www.drjonesnmd.com/ 

🔬 Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Mark Sircus

03:00 The Journey to Root Cause Medicine

05:40 Natural Allopathic Medicine Explained

08:23 Bicarbonate: The Key to Health and Aging

10:49 Bicarbonate in Cancer Treatment

13:19 The Role of Bicarbonate in Kidney Health

16:09 Bicarbonate and Athletic Performance

18:47 Combining Bicarbonate with Other Therapies

21:23 The Importance of Magnesium and Iodine

24:11 Practical Applications of Bicarbonate Therapy

26:31 Final Thoughts and Advice

Therapeutic Plasma Exchange (TPE) has quickly become one of the most discussed longevity tools, bridging traditional medicine with cutting-edge regenerative therapies. In this episode, Dr. Greg Jones sits down with Dr. John Layke—Beverly Hills plastic surgeon and leading longevity physician—to unpack the science, clinical applications, and real-world results behind TPE. 

Dr. Layke explains how TPE works, why it has been used for decades in conventional medicine, and how modern research now points to its role in reducing inflammation, clearing immune complexes, and supporting metabolic health. You’ll learn what is removed during plasma filtration, what patients commonly feel after a session, and how TPE interacts with other regenerative tools.

The episode also explores how senescent cells, chronic inflammation, lifestyle choices, and hormone balance shape health span. 

Whether you’re curious about emerging anti-aging therapies or evaluating whether TPE fits into your own health optimization plan, this discussion delivers a practical, science-driven guide to what’s available now—and what the future of regenerative medicine may look like.

📌 Dr. John Layke

Dr. John Layke is a leading board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon based in Beverly Hills.  As the co-founder of Proactive Longevity, Dr. Layke also plays a key role in the fields of anti-aging and regenerative medicine. He has been an early adopter of stem cell therapy and exosome treatments, using these tools to support both aesthetic goals and overall wellness. Known for his balance of artistry and science, Dr. Layke is committed to helping people look and feel their best, and often shares forward-thinking insights on longevity and the future of regenerative care.

🔗 Learn more about Dr. John Layke

Website: www.johnlayke.com | https://theproactivelongevity.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/drjlayke

🔗Connect with Dr. Greg Jones

Instagram: @doctorjones_doctorjones 

Enovative Wellness Center: https://enovativewellness.com/ 

Learn more about Dr. Jones: https://www.drjonesnmd.com/

• Welcome & episode introduction (00:00 - 01:31)
• Dr. Layke’s transition from plastic surgery to longevity (02:02 - 02:45)
• Discovering regenerative therapies worldwide (02:45 - 03:15)
• Launching a longevity clinic in Cabo (03:15 - 03:52)
• What TPE is (04:57 - 05:22)
• How plasma accumulates inflammatory and immune waste (05:22 - 06:24)
• Do platelets or clotting factors drop post-TPE? (06:29 - 07:43)
• TPE’s influence on chronic inflammation & disease pathways (07:38 - 08:04)
• What TPE removes (08:21 - 08:56)
• The “blood oil change” analogy (08:56 - 09:50)
• TPE’s original medical purpose (09:51 - 10:24)
• The value of plasma dilution (10:24 - 11:52)
• Autoimmune conditions with promising TPE outcomes (11:53 - 13:04)
• Common post-session benefits (13:26 - 14:36)
• Mario Lopez’s TPE experience & rising public curiosity (14:41 - 16:16)
• Biological age improvements (16:20 - 18:43)
• Ideal TPE candidates (18:47 - 20:42)
• Who may not qualify for TPE (22:16 - 23:44)
• How TPE pairs with NK cells, stem cells & exosomes (23:45 - 26:50)
• Safety protocols (27:05 - 30:49)
• Preparing for TPE (30:54 - 33:16)
• TPE vs. eBOO: separating evidence from hype (33:16 - 35:45)
• The growing accessibility of longevity medicine (35:45 - 37:37)
• The peptide segment (37:37 - 38:52)
• Growth hormone peptides (41:22 - 42:34)
• Peptide blends (42:35 - 44:10)
• Senolytics: FOXO4-DRI & clearing senescent cells (44:16 - 45:20)
• Peptide injection lessons learned (45:21 - 48:00)
• C-Max vs. C-Link for cognitive enhancement (48:01 - 49:50)
• Where TPE fits into the future of anti-aging medicine (50:02 - 51:25)
• Predictive models: could humans live to 150? (51:26 - 52:46)
• Lifestyle, hormones & inflammation in aging (52:47 - 53:50)
• Final actionable longevity guidance (53:51 - 56:27)
• How to follow Dr. Layke’s work (56:27 - 57:30)
• Closing thoughts (57:30 - 58:26)

Discover how peptides work, what they can help with, and why they’re becoming one of the most powerful tools in functional and regenerative medicine. Dr. Greg Jones breaks down peptide safety, how they signal the body, the top peptides for weight loss, healing, cognition, immunity, and longevity — plus the different delivery methods like injections, oral options, nasal sprays, IVs, and topicals. CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction & Why Peptides Matter00:34 What Peptides Are & How They Work in the Body01:49 Why Peptides Are Safer: Receptors, Signals & Side Effects03:36 What Peptides Can Help With (Cognition, Weight, Healing, Immunity)06:03 Delivery Methods: Injections, Oral, Nasal, IV & Topicals08:16 Aesthetic Peptides: GHK-Cu & Skin/Hair Benefits08:49 Choosing the Right Peptide + Clinical GuidanceConnect with Dr. Greg JonesInstagram: @doctorjones_doctorjones Enovative Wellness Center: https://enovativewellness.com/ 📣 Subscribe + Follow: Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe and leave a review. 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrJonesNMDTV 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2QrMGwCIGo1kjdezfCyYDK?si=WhH4DW3oQw2k9qkfCtHZdQ ____________________________The information provided in this video is solely for educational and informational purposes. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to diagnose, treat, cure, or manage any health condition. Viewing this content does not establish or imply a doctor–patient relationship. You should not rely on this content as a substitute for consultation with a licensed healthcare professional regarding your own specific medical questions or health concerns. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication, supplement, treatment, or lifestyle program. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have seen in this video. If you believe you may be experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.

In this episode, Dr. Jones is joined by Dr. Donald Layman, one of the world’s top experts in protein metabolism. They discuss what happens to our muscles as we age, why leucine is a key amino acid for building and repairing muscle, and the amount of protein needed to stay strong and healthy.

Dr. Layman also explains the differences between lifespan, longevity, and health span — and how muscle helps us stay active and independent as we age. You’ll hear why muscle supports recovery from illness or injury, and why it’s essential to protect it long before we reach old age.

You’ll learn why breakfast protein matters most, how to avoid age-related muscle loss, and what the research says about protein and kidney health, cancer risk, and living better for longer. This is your crash course in eating for muscle and aging better.

📌 Dr. Donald Layman

Dr. Donald Layman is a globally recognized leader in the field of protein metabolism and nutritional science. As a Professor Emeritus at the University of Illinois, his groundbreaking research has reshaped our understanding of the role of protein, leucine, and muscle health in aging and metabolism. Over his 40+ year career, he has published extensively on amino acids, mTOR signaling, and dietary strategies that support strength, longevity, and healthier body composition. Today, he continues to educate clinicians and the public on practical, science-based nutrition for lifelong health.

🔗 Learn more about Dr. Donald Layman

Website: www.metabolictransformation.com/meet-dr-donald-k-layman/

Connect with Dr. Greg Jones

Instagram: @doctorjones_doctorjones 

Enovative Wellness Center: https://enovativewellness.com/ 

🔬 Timestamps

• Welcome and introduction (00:00 - 02:32)
• How Dr. Layman became a leader in protein research (02:32 - 04:22)
• The leucine discovery journey (04:22 - 06:53)
• Protein, kidneys, and the BUN myth (06:53 - 09:45)
• Why protein keeps you full (09:45 - 10:41)
• Muscle: the driver of metabolism and longevity (10:41 - 14:01)
• Match your diet to your activity (14:01 - 14:41)
• What leucine actually does in muscle (14:41 - 17:39)
• How mTOR works (and why it’s not the enemy) (17:39 - 22:34)
• Do BCAA supplements actually work? (22:34 - 24:51)
• Best BCAA ratio and why (24:51 - 27:18)
• The leucine threshold & why meal size matters (27:18 - 29:13)
• Plant vs. animal protein: significant differences in leucine (29:13 - 30:40)
• How aging changes protein needs (30:40 - 32:13)
• “Eat less protein for longevity?” Dr. Layman responds (32:13 -36:35)
• How much protein should we really eat daily (36:35 - 39:02)
• Protein for weight loss and metabolism (39:02 - 39:58)
• Older adults need MORE protein (39:58 - 42:38)
• Easy math for calculating your protein goal (42:38 - 44:05)
• When you eat protein matters (front-load the day) (44:05 - 46:56)
• Real breakfast foods that work (46:56 - 47:50)
• What is a catabolic crisis? (47:50 - 50:18)
• Protein powders: what to look for (50:18 - 54:49)
• What about hormones in meat? (54:49 - 56:17)
• Soy vs. beef estrogen comparison (56:17 - 58:21)
• Can you eat too much protein? (58:21 - 01:00:43)
• Athletes vs. everyday adults' protein needs (01:00:43 - 01:02:13)
• Spread protein across meals for max benefit (01:02:13 - 01:02:58)
• The one thing to start doing today (01:02:58 - 01:04:06)
• Earn your carbohydrates (01:04:06 - 01:04:17)
• Where to find more from Dr. Layman (01:04:17 - 01:05:31)
• Closing thoughts (01:05:31 - 01:06:13)

In this episode, Dr. Greg Jones is joined by Dr. Tori Hudson, a naturopathic physician, educator, and one of the most respected voices in women’s health. With more than 40 years of experience, Dr. Hudson shares how women can better understand and support their hormones from puberty through menopause.

They talk about everything from PMS and birth control to perimenopause, menopause, and the recent “hormone prescribing frenzy.” Dr. Hudson explains when birth control pills make sense, what happens when you stop them, and how to support hormone balance naturally. She also discusses the risks and benefits of hormone replacement therapy, the environmental impacts of medical testing and prescriptions, and the lifestyle habits that make the most significant difference for women’s long-term health.

This conversation is a grounded, science-informed look at women’s hormones, practical, honest, and empowering for every age.

📌 Dr. Tori Hudson

Dr. Tori Hudson is a nationally recognized author, speaker, educator, researcher, and clinician, and the first woman in the United States to become a full professor of Naturopathic Medicine. With over 40 years in practice, she serves as the medical director of A Woman’s Time in Portland, Oregon, and as Program Director for the Institute of Women’s Health and Integrative Medicine. She is also the co-founder and Director of Research, Product Development, and Education at Vitanica, a leading women’s supplement company. Dr. Hudson teaches at several naturopathic medical schools and is widely regarded as a pioneer in women’s health, integrative medicine, and natural approaches to gynecology and endocrinology.

🔗 Learn more about Dr. Tori Hudson

Website: https://vitanica.com/about

Vitanica for clinicians: vitanicapro.com

Vitanica for consumers: vitanica.com

Institute of Women’s Health and Integrative Medicine: integrativewomenshealth.com

Offers quarterly virtual seminars for practitioners, including upcoming sessions on menstrual disorders and abnormal uterine bleeding.

Women’s Health Mentorship Program: womenshealthmentorship.com

A year-long mentorship with Dr. Tori Hudson and Dr. Jacqueline Smeaton focused on clinical and professional development.

Connect with Dr. Greg Jones

Instagram: @doctorjones_doctorjones 

Enovative Wellness Center: https://enovativewellness.com/ 

🔬 Timestamps

• Welcome and introduction (00:00 - 02:19)
• Dr. Hudson’s early influences and path to naturopathic medicine (02:19 - 08:07)
• Common hormone issues for younger women (08:07 - 10:20)
• Birth control pills: benefits, myths, and missing the root cause (10:20 - 19:38)
• What happens when women stop taking the pill (19:38 - 22:22)
• Understanding perimenopause and early menopause (22:22 - 25:01)
• The truth about testosterone and low libido (25:01 - 30:07)
• The hormone hype and environmental impact of overtesting (30:07 - 37:14)
• Dr. Hudson’s “three-bucket” approach to menopause care (37:14 - 41:58)
• Natural options for hot flashes and vaginal dryness (41:58 - 46:45)
• Safe vs. risky hormone delivery methods (46:45 - 52:37)
• Everyday habits that support hormone health (52:37 - 56:19)
• Where to learn more about Dr. Hudson and her work (56:19 - 59:37)

In this episode, Dr. Greg Jones talks with Dr. Tom Ingengno, a Doctor of Acupuncture, author of The Cupping Book, and founder of Charm City Integrative Health. Together, they explore the surprising science behind cupping therapy, from its ancient roots to how it’s finding a place in modern integrative medicine.

Dr. Tom shares how a family memory led him from pre-med to acupuncture, the evolution of cupping practices across cultures, and the science that supports its benefits for circulation, inflammation, and even anxiety. They also discuss how techniques like red light therapy, cryotherapy, and acupuncture can be “stacked” for deeper healing.

Whether you’re a skeptic, a curious wellness enthusiast, or a practitioner, this episode breaks down the myths and explains why cupping isn’t just a trend, it’s a time-tested therapy supported by research and results.

📌 Dr. Tom Ingegno

Dr. Tom Ingegno, DACM is a nationally recognized Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine with a reputation for blending ancient healing with modern innovation. With over 20 years of clinical experience, he founded Charm City Integrative Health in Baltimore. In this one-of-a-kind clinic, acupuncture meets cryotherapy, red light therapy, and cutting-edge wellness tools. Known for his relatable style and sharp insights, Dr. Tom has been featured in over 100 podcasts, interviews, and wellness publications. Whether he's helping patients navigate burnout or exploring the science behind Eastern medicine, Dr. Tom is passionate about making holistic care accessible, effective, and rooted in real results.

🔗 Learn more about Dr. Tom Ingegno

Website: Http://charmcityintegrative.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/acuguy

Podcast: https://irreverenthealth.com

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/c/CharmCityIntegrativeHealthBaltimore

Connect with Dr. Greg Jones

Instagram: @doctorjones_doctorjones 

Enovative Wellness Center: https://enovativewellness.com/ 

🔬 Timestamps

• Introduction and Dr. Tom’s early inspiration in healthcare (00:00 - 02:41)

• How a memory of his grandfather sparked a shift from pre-med to acupuncture (02:41 - 07:23)

• The evolution of acupuncture from “woo woo” to evidence-based medicine (07:23 - 09:37)

• Understanding qi and how modern science tries to measure energy flow (09:37 - 14:25)

• The real science behind cupping — circulation, fascia, and repair (14:25 - 16:46)

• Myths about cupping marks and what they really mean (16:46 - 19:31)

• The global history of cupping: from ancient Egypt to modern clinics (19:31 - 26:30)

• How cupping triggers the body’s “rest and digest” state (26:30 - 32:38)

• Safety considerations and when not to use cupping (32:38 - 38:28)

• DIY cupping and the safest tools to use at home (38:28 - 49:47)

• How acupuncture and cupping complement each other (49:47 - 51:09)

• Dr. Tom’s “stacked” therapies: red light, cryotherapy, salt therapy, and more (51:09 - 56:44)

• The comeback of ancient medicine in modern science (56:44 - 01:01:16)

• Where to Find Dr. Tom and Closing Remarks (01:01:16 - 01:04:19)