In this episode of the Pop Culture Podcast, Dr. Eric Smith and Laura welcome entrepreneur and health advocate Todd R. Wagner. As the co-founder of Broadcast.com and founder of Charity Network, Todd has always been a trailblazer. Now, he’s focusing on addressing one of America’s most pressing health crises—obesity—through his platform, FoodFight USA.

Obesity affects millions of Americans and is fueled by the prevalence of ultra-processed foods that dominate the U.S. food supply. Todd shares his personal battle with migraines, which vanished during trips to Europe, and how this led him to uncover the alarming differences in food regulations. He exposes how harmful chemicals, dyes, and additives in processed foods contribute to chronic diseases, metabolic disorders, and weight gain.

Dr. Eric Smith connects Todd’s mission to his own work with patients, emphasizing that “it’s not you, it’s the food.” Together, they explore how better nutrition can help individuals regain control of their health and combat the cycle of obesity. They also discuss the importance of educating athletes and everyday consumers about the hidden dangers in their diets and promoting healthier eating habits.

Todd highlights the support of Governor Schwarzenegger in advancing a legislative movement to reduce the impact of ultra-processed foods. He also shares practical solutions for choosing healthier alternatives, raising awareness, and taking a stand against the obesity epidemic in the USA.

Key Topics Covered:

• Todd Wagner’s journey from tech innovator to health advocate
• The mission of FoodFight USA to fight obesity and ultra-processed foods
• The connection between ultra-processed foods and obesity in America
• How European food regulations prioritize health over profit
• Simple steps to reduce processed food consumption and improve wellness
• Dr. Eric Smith’s insights on patient care and nutrition

Whether you’re looking to better understand the root causes of obesity, learn about healthier eating options, or take control of your wellness, this episode is packed with expert insights and actionable advice.

Explore Todd’s impactful work at FoodFightUSA.com.

If you’re interested in learning more about the science behind ultra-processed foods and their impact on health, check out the book Ultra-Processed People by Chris van Tulleken.

Take charge of your health by downloading the YUKA app to scan your products and ensure their quality. 

In this episode of The Pop Culture Podcast, Laura interviews Dr. Eric Smith to discuss health, wellness, and transformative weight-loss strategies. Dr. Smith, a leading surgeon and Medical Director for Pop Recovery Systems, shares his insights on tackling obesity, navigating the complexities of insurance, and the groundbreaking role of GLP-1 medications in weight management.

During their conversation, Dr. Smith reflects on his career milestone of surpassing 5,000 robotic procedures and offers valuable perspectives on choosing the right approach for weight loss—whether surgery or medication. They also dive into the mental health challenges of obesity, the impact of food and chemical addictions, and the importance of educating both patients and healthcare providers on sustainable wellness solutions.

Key Topics Covered:

• Laura interviews Dr. Eric Smith on health and wellness breakthroughs
• GLP-1 medications and their role in weight-loss journeys
• The obesity epidemic: surgery vs. medication as effective solutions
• Mental health and its connection to achieving lasting wellness
• Tackling food and chemical addictions in modern diets
• Understanding insurance challenges (Medicare vs. Medicaid)

Join Laura and Dr. Smith for an inspiring and informative discussion packed with insights to motivate your own journey toward health and well-being.

Read the full article from Pop Recovery Systems here: https://www.newsweek.com/

In this episode of the Pop Culture Podcast, Laura and Dr. Eric Smith delve into two major healthcare stories making headlines, unpacking their implications for patient care, mental health, and societal change. The episode begins with Anthem Blue Cross’s controversial policy to limit anesthesia coverage, which was swiftly retracted after public backlash. Laura and Dr. Smith explain why this reversal is a victory for patients and healthcare providers, highlighting the importance of safe and unrestricted surgical practices. They also touch on the tragic shooting of United Healthcare’s CEO, emphasizing the need for constructive solutions to address frustrations and drive change.

Key Topics Covered:

• Why Anthem Blue Cross’s anesthesia policy reversal was critical for patient safety
• The role of mental health in managing anger and frustrations constructively
• Insights into how healthcare professionals are compensated during surgeries
• Why advocacy and systemic reforms are the right way to create positive change

This episode provides a thought-provoking look at the intersection of healthcare policies and societal challenges. Tune in for a balanced, insightful discussion on the future of patient care and mental health.

Follow Dr. Eric Smith on Instagram at doctorericsmith and visit his Linktree for more.

Follow Laura Alexis on Poprecoverysystems and visit https://www.poprecoverysystems.com for more.

In this episode of the Pop Culture Podcast, Laura and Dr. Eric Smith welcome special guest Alana Moor, a two-time award-winning motivational speaker, for an inspiring and empowering conversation about overcoming challenges with mental strength.

Discover how fitness and staying active shaped Alana’s journey to health and wellness, the invaluable lessons she learned through sports, and how she cultivated resilience during a pivotal chapter in her life. Alana shares practical insights and strategies for building mental strength and embracing personal growth.

Key Topics Covered:

• The role of sports in promoting physical health, mental well-being, and teamwork
• Alana’s transformative experience in Panama and how she turned adversity into an opportunity for growth
• The power of mindset in overcoming obstacles and achieving long-term wellness
• Why taking responsibility for your life is crucial for personal progress and success

Alana’s story is a beacon of motivation and inspiration, demonstrating the power of determination and accountability in transforming your life. Whether you’re looking for ways to improve your health, boost your confidence, or overcome life’s challenges, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you on your journey to wellness and self-empowerment. Tune in to be inspired and take the next step toward a healthier, more fulfilled life.

You can follow Alana here on Instagram: @alanamoorspeaks - Keynote Speaker | Resilience Coach

Follow Dr. Eric Smith on Instagram at doctorericsmith and visit his Linktree for more.

Follow Laura Alexis on Poprecoverysystems and visit https://www.poprecoverysystems.com for more.

In this episode of the Pop Culture Podcast, Laura and Dr. Eric Smith are joined by special guest Elven Moshi, who shares his inspiring journey of losing 225 pounds through bariatric sleeve surgery. Together, they dive into the challenges and triumphs of his transformation, from overcoming toxic relationships and gambling addiction to adopting healthier habits that changed his life.

Moshi opens up about the importance of fulfillment, wealth, and health, reflecting on how his hospital scare taught him that no amount of money is worth sacrificing your well-being. He also discusses navigating fake friendships that arise when you're at your peak and how to focus on genuine connections.

The conversation highlights practical strategies for building better habits, staying consistent with weight loss, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle after bariatric surgery. Moshi shares the secret behind his mouthwatering meal posts on social media and how he balances indulgence with health.

Key Topics Covered:

• Bariatric sleeve surgery: The importance of a strict post-op diet to avoid complications
• Building healthier habits: How to start and stay consistent
• Fake friendships: Recognizing and avoiding relationships based on convenience
• The connection between mental health and long-term weight loss success
• Balancing food enjoyment and weight maintenance after surgery

Whether you're on a weight loss journey or striving for a healthier lifestyle, this episode is filled with actionable advice and inspiring lessons.

Follow Elven Moshi on Instagram: @moshitvee.

Follow Dr. Eric Smith on Instagram at doctorericsmith and visit his Linktree for more.

Follow Laura Alexis on Poprecoverysystems and visit https://www.poprecoverysystems.com for more.

In this episode of the Pop Culture Podcast, Todd Anderson, founder of Dream Recovery, shares his transformative journey from childhood obesity to becoming a leader in health and wellness through sleep optimization.

Todd opens up about how he built confidence through fitness, pursued a career in sports, and uncovered the critical role sleep plays in physical performance and mental well-being. Inspired to help others, Todd collaborated with sleep doctors and developed innovative products designed to enhance sleep quality and overall health.

Key topics discussed include:

• How sleep impacts overall health and wellness
• The science behind sleep optimization for peak performance
• Common sleep disorders and how to manage them
• Tips for combating sleep deprivation and improving rest
• The best sleep products, supplements, and tools for better sleep
• Understanding anxiety’s role in sleep and creating positive sleep associations

Whether you’re looking to improve your sleep, manage stress, or enhance your overall health, this episode offers practical advice and expert insights to help you unlock the restorative power of sleep.

You can find Todd Anderson on Instagram here.

Follow Dr. Eric Smith on Instagram at doctorericsmith and visit his Linktree for more.

Follow Laura Alexis on Poprecoverysystems and visit https://www.poprecoverysystems.com for more.

In this episode of the Pop Culture Podcast, Laura and Dr. Eric Smith welcome special guest Steve Azar—a Mississippi Delta native, hit songwriter, recording artist, music producer, and author. Eric shares how he first met Steve back in 2015 on the golf course, and they reminisce about Steve’s journey in the entertainment industry, from starting at the young age of 11 to becoming one of the most downloaded artists on Napster. Despite facing numerous challenges, including throat surgery, Steve's resilience and unwavering determination drove him to success.

Steve discusses the years of hard work that led to his breakthrough, as he didn’t land his first hit until the age of 37. He also shares the excitement of being part of a project nominated for a Grammy—a collaboration featuring multiple artists that highlights the power of music and community.

In addition to his music career, the conversation delves into the epidemic of obesity. Laura and Dr. Eric emphasize the importance of educating health officials on recognizing obesity as a disease and the need for more comprehensive support to ensure effective treatment.

Steve opens up about balancing a demanding career with health and wellness, emphasizing how self-care and mental strength have helped him persevere through the ups and downs. Whether it’s signing with agents, creating chart-topping songs, or embracing the journey, Steve’s story is a testament to persistence and believing in oneself.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with wisdom, music industry insights, and more.

Follow Steve Azar on Instagram at steveazar.

Follow Dr. Eric Smith on Instagram at doctorericsmith_ and visit his Linktree for more.

Follow Laura Alexis on Poprecoverysystems and visit https://www.poprecoverysystems.com for more.  

In this episode of the Pop Culture Podcast, Laura and Dr. Eric Smith welcome award-winning filmmaker and social media strategist Marley Jaxx. Laura shares how Marley reignited her passion for creating content through her innovative “docu-stunt” concept—a staged stunt in documentary form—motivating Laura to step up her YouTube game.

Marley takes us through her journey from working as a dental hygienist to becoming a viral content creator. She reveals the secrets behind creating impactful content, marketing strategies, and building an engaged audience. Marley emphasizes the importance of consistency, hard work, and patience in achieving success, whether it’s growing a social media platform, embarking on a wellness journey, or building a brand from scratch.

The discussion dives into overcoming challenges, staying motivated when progress feels slow, and the mindset needed to persevere—whether it’s your 100th day at the gym, post-bariatric surgery, or creating content. Marley also opens up about her personal wellness journey, including her battle with adenocarcinoma, undergoing a hysterectomy, and how prioritizing health transformed her life and content creation.

This episode is packed with wellness insights, motivational advice, and actionable tips for creators and dreamers alike. Tune in for inspiration and practical strategies to keep moving forward, no matter where you are in your journey.

Follow Dr. Eric Smith on Instagram at doctorericsmith and visit his Linktree for more.

Follow Laura Alexis on Poprecoverysystems and visit https://www.poprecoverysystems.com for more.

In this episode of the Pop Culture Podcast, Laura and Dr. Eric Smith sit down with Eric Villency, CEO of Villency Design Group, an interior and product design firm behind SoulCycle and Peloton. Eric shares his journey of inheriting the family business, exploring other career paths, and ultimately discovering his passion for design and creativity.

He delves into the importance of assembling a talented team, hiring to complement your weaknesses, and focusing on your strengths. Eric also opens up about the humbling experience of recovering from injuries and the impact on his mental health. He explains how he merged creativity with health, wellness, and fitness to shape his career in innovative design.

The conversation touches on navigating failures, overcoming rejection, and actionable advice for anyone facing setbacks in their career. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on resilience, creativity, and building success from challenges.

Follow Eric Villency on Instagram at ericvillency.

Follow Dr. Eric Smith on Instagram at doctorericsmith_ and visit his Linktree for more.

Follow Laura Alexis on Poprecoverysystems and visit https://www.poprecoverysystems.com for more.  

In this inspiring episode, Laura and Dr. Eric Smith sit down with Olympic gold medalist Nick Baumgartner to discuss his incredible journey from humble beginnings to achieving greatness. Whether you're pursuing a career in plastic surgery, chasing athletic dreams, or seeking personal motivation, Nick’s story will resonate.

Nick shares how he started snowboarding at 15, took it seriously, and eventually won an Olympic gold medal in 2022. His journey proves that it’s never too late to chase your dreams—progress, no matter how small, is still progress. Nick reflects on the challenges of staying motivated during tough times and highlights how perseverance and building consistent habits can lead to long-term success.

They also explore how having a support system is essential, whether you're transforming your body through plastic surgery or striving to reach any ambitious goal. Nick emphasizes using challenges and even doubters as fuel to stay focused and achieve greatness.

If you’re looking for motivation, tips on staying disciplined, or insights into achieving your goals, this episode is packed with value.

Check out Nick’s book Gold From Iron: From Beginning Snowboarding to Olympic Gold and Getting Better With Age. Available here.

Follow nick on Instagram at nickbaumgartner.

Follow Dr. Eric Smith on Instagram at doctorericsmith_ and visit his Linktree for more.

Follow Laura Alexis on Poprecoverysystems and visit https://www.poprecoverysystems.com for more.