In this episode of Talk With Turek, Dr. Paul Turek and co-host Rob Clyde welcome special guest Dr. John K. Amory, MD, MPH, Professor at the University of Washington, to discuss a breakthrough that is proving to be a true game changer in the field of reproductive health.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• How isotretinoin (best known as Accutane®) has been shown to stimulate sperm production in severely infertile men.

• Why retinoic acid is critical for spermatogenesis and healthy sperm production

• Results from a brand-new peer-reviewed study: in a group of 30 men with azoospermia or cryptozoospermia, 37% produced motile ejaculated sperm after 3–6 months of isotretinoin therapy Real-world outcomes: embryos created, pregnancies achieved, and babies born

• Why this treatment, although off-label, offers real hope to men once told “there’s no chance.” This medication must be artfully monitored and requires specialized oversight and management by an experienced reproductive urology practice.

• How collaboration between specialists is breaking down stigma and driving innovation in male fertility

At The Turek Clinic, our mission is to put patients first. That means understanding every unique situation, exploring every option, and guiding patients toward the best path forward — whether that involves surgery, advanced diagnostics, or groundbreaking new therapies.

Tune in to Episode 10 of Talk With Turek on your favorite podcast platform, or watch here, to learn how this discovery could transform the future of infertility treatments.

*Isotretinoin is not FDA-approved for male infertility; this is off-label use.

**Accutane® is a registered trademark of Hoffmann-La Roche Inc.; use herein is for identification only.

Infertility too often defaults to a “woman’s issue,” yet up to 50% of cases stem from male factors. A basic semen analysis should be the very first step for any couple trying to conceive, but going beyond with advanced sperm-quality technology like Sperm QT and epigenetic analysis transforms outcomes. These deeper dives—performed under the care of a reproductive urologist—expedite diagnosis, support more affordable treatment paths, and spare couples from unnecessary procedures or invasive female testing and lead to increased success rates and potentially healthier children, at a reduced cost.

Why This Episode Matters

In Episode 9 of Talk With Turek, Dr. Paul Turek and co-host Rob Clyde welcome Kristin Brogaard, CSO of Path Fertility, for an unfiltered exploration of:

Why Epigenetics Matter in Sperm Analysis

Epigenetic “tags” on sperm DNA don’t alter your genetic code—but they determine which genes are switched on or off. Understanding these marks is crucial because:

• Guiding Embryo Development: Proper epigenetic programming in sperm steers early embryonic gene expression—errors here can contribute to implantation failures or developmental issues.

• Predicting Fertility Outcomes: Abnormal sperm epigenetic patterns are linked to lower fertilization rates and higher miscarriage risks, making them invaluable biomarkers beyond simple counts or motility measures.

• Safeguarding Future Generations: Environmental exposures, age, and lifestyle can reshape sperm epigenetics—and those changes may influence children’s long-term health.

Path Forward: Actions to Optimize Sperm Epigenetics

Armed with epigenetic insights, couples and clinicians can take targeted steps to enhance reproductive success:

• Routine Epigenetic Screening: Incorporate DNA methylation profiling along with standard semen analyses to uncover hidden obstacles to conception.

• Collaborative Care: Partner with a reproductive urologist to interpret advanced assay results, integrate them into your fertility plan, and monitor improvements over time.

• Preventive Counseling: Educate on the impact of diet, toxins, stress, and exercise—empowering lifestyle changes that benefit both sperm health and future children’s well-being.

• Personalized Interventions: Tailor nutrition, supplement, or medical therapies based on each patient’s specific epigenetic profile.

Thank you for being part of our community. Together, we’re redefining reproductive care—one scientific breakthrough and one hopeful story at a time.

Subscribe to never miss an episode, LIKE if you find value, and SHARE to help break the silence around male infertility!

In this powerful episode of Talk with Turek, Dr. Paul Turek, a leading reproductive urologist, and co-host Rob Clyde sit down with Turek Clinic patients Mike and Katie, who share their deeply personal journey navigating the challenges of male infertility. They open up about the emotional and medical hurdles they faced, including the societal pressures on masculinity and the emotional toll of discovering fertility issues. Their story underscores the critical importance of understanding male fertility, self-advocacy, and the life-changing hope that comes from working with the right reproductive specialists—specialists who will listen, not put their own agenda ahead of yours, and will walk alongside you every step of the way.

When others told them there was no hope, Dr. Turek not only provided hope but also found a solution. Their journey through IVF highlights the emotional and economic impact of fertility treatments, with a focus on innovations in sperm selection technology and the importance of high-quality labs in improving IVF outcomes. Their story also emphasizes the need for testing both partners—especially since male factor infertility, which accounts for 50% of infertility cases, is often overlooked.

Mike and Katie’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, showing that in the face of adversity, trusting your instincts and seeking new solutions can lead to hope and success. Now, with two beautiful daughters, they continue to inspire others by advocating for a shift in the infertility conversation—one that recognizes the essential role of male fertility.

This episode is a must-watch, offering insights into the IVF process while highlighting the importance of awareness, education, and breaking the silence surrounding male infertility. It calls on both patients and medical professionals to prioritize male fertility in reproductive health.

❤️ If Mike and Katie’s story moves you, please LIKE, COMMENT, and SHARE—help us break the silence on male fertility and bring hope to others. Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE and hit the 🔔 icon so you never miss an episode!

In Episode 7 of Talk with Turek, Dr. Paul Turek opens the conversation not with science, but with soul. He shares the stories of two patients whose heartbreaking journeys—unrelated to testosterone—underscore the fragility, resilience, and raw humanity at the heart of family-building. These deeply emotional narratives reveal the unseen weight men carry in the face of loss, infertility, and uncertainty. It’s a poignant reminder: behind every chart and test result is a person seeking hope.

From this place of vulnerability and empathy, Dr. Turek and co-host Rob Clyde transition into a powerful and myth-busting exploration of testosterone—often misunderstood, often misused, and increasingly commercialized as a cure-all for aging and low energy. They take on “Vitamin T” with clarity, nuance, and compassion.

A central theme? Stress. Dr. Turek unpacks how chronic stress—a silent epidemic among men—can wreak havoc on testosterone levels, sexual health, and overall wellbeing. The episode explores how stress-related hormonal dysregulation in younger men is on the rise, and how this is often misdiagnosed or mismanaged with quick-fix testosterone therapy, which can do more harm than good.

Also in this episode:

• The truth behind testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) and why it can lead to 95% infertility rates in men using it.
• How normal testosterone levels are essential for sperm production—and how low levels aren't always the root of the problem.
• Why sex drive is not solely hormonal—it's also deeply tied to mental state, lifestyle, and emotional connection.
• A breakdown of anabolic steroids vs. natural testosterone and what the data says about longevity.
• How sleep, exercise, and stress management are some of the most powerful tools for hormonal balance—no prescription needed.
• The artistry and misconception of bodybuilding: what the outside world sees vs. what’s happening internally.
• Advances in sperm retrieval techniques, including how sperm mapping can protect long-term testosterone production, unlike blind microdissection techniques that risk harming testicular function.

From bedroom performance to boardroom burnout, this conversation is about more than hormones—it’s about reclaiming agency over one’s health, identity, and future.

If this episode moved you or taught you something new, please like, comment, and subscribe. Share it with someone navigating testosterone therapy, infertility, or just trying to make sense of their body in a noisy world. Let’s continue to normalize these conversations—with honesty, empathy, and science.

Join Hosts Dr. Paul Turek and Rob Clyde in this candid episode of Talk with Turek Podcast, where they delve into the impact of aging on male fertility, sexual health, and overall wellness. This conversation explores critical but often overlooked topics such as erectile dysfunction, the influence of paternal age on offspring, the connection between sex drive and morning wood, and the role of masturbation in male health.

In this episode they explore the often-overlooked effects of aging on men’s fertility and sexual health. While changes such as erectile dysfunction, reduced libido, and morning wood may be viewed as natural consequences of getting older, these changes can also serve as important markers for other underlying health conditions.

As men age, many face challenges related to fertility, sexual function, and libido, yet these topics are rarely discussed openly. Dr. Turek and Rob shine a light on the profound ways in which aging affects male fertility and sexual health, from the decline in sperm quality to the complexities of erectile dysfunction. They also examine how paternal age influences the health of offspring, emphasizing the importance of understanding these impacts in today’s world.

The episode goes beyond just the physiological aspects, tackling the emotional and psychological dimensions of aging as they relate to male sexual health. The hosts discuss how societal pressures, body image, and stress contribute to the challenges men face with erectile dysfunction and diminished sex drive. They also explore the science behind morning wood, erections, and how hormonal changes over time influence these responses.

Masturbation, often a misunderstood aspect of male sexuality, is also addressed, as it plays a critical role in understanding sexual health and the effects of aging. Dr. Turek and Rob offer expert insights into how maintaining a healthy sexual lifestyle can help combat some of the challenges aging men may face, and why seeking medical advice is crucial for tackling these issues head-on.

Our mission is to normalize the conversation around male sexual health, break down stigmas, and encourage men to take charge of their health. By continuing to discuss topics like male fertility, erectile dysfunction, and sexual wellness openly, we hope to empower men to seek the help they need.

Breaking the Silence on Male Fertility: A Conversation With Khaled Kteily

We’re excited to bring you another compelling episode of Talk With Turek, where we dive into the critical issues surrounding men’s sexual health and fertility. This week, we’re joined by Khaled Kteily, CEO of Legacy, whose mission is to change the outdated notion that fertility is solely a women’s issue. He is committed to making male fertility a priority by providing easy, accessible at-home solutions like sperm testing and sperm freezing that empower men to take control of their fertility journey and overall health.

In this episode, Dr. Paul Turek and Rob Clyde, patient and producer, add their signature humor and explore more serious topics including:

• Changing the global perspective on infertility as solely a women’s issue and advocating for men’s proactive participation in their fertility and overall health.
• How Legacy’s affordable, at-home sperm testing kits and sperm freezing solutions make it easier for men to understand, monitor and participate in their reproductive health.
• The importance of seeking care from a qualified reproductive urology practice when needed and understanding when to take action.
• The economic and societal benefits of addressing male fertility issues early on, including the long-term impact on family planning and overall health.
• Preventative measures like sperm testing and freezing should be normalized and embraced by men, particularly as many remain unaware of their fertility status until it’s too late.

Key Insights:

• Sperm quality is not only critical for fertility but can also serve as a bio-marker for overall health, with regular semen analysis acting as a health check for men—a perspective long championed by Dr. Turek.
• Raising awareness about male fertility testing is essential for future generations, especially given the ongoing decline in birth rates, which is influenced by multiple societal and health factors.

This episode is a must-watch for men of all ages, whether you're on a fertility journey or simply want to understand your health better. Tune in for valuable insights into the evolving landscape of male fertility and why early awareness and action are key to a healthier future.

A few interesting facts about our guest:

1.  I've lived through an earthquake, a volcanic eruption, and a bombing
2. I've lived in 9 cities
3. I have more frozen sperm than anyone in the country 

Khaled Kteily Bio

Khaled Kteily is the CEO of Legacy (www.givelegacy.com), a digital fertility clinic for men helpingchange the outdated view that fertility is a “women’s issue”. Legacy is a graduate of Harvard's Innovation Labs and Y Combinator, has raised almost $50M from top-tier investors like

FirstMark Capital & Bain Capital Ventures, as well as celebrities like Justin Bieber and DJ Khaled.

The company works with leading insurers (e.g. UnitedHealthcare, Aetna, Cigna, etc.), leading military partners (e.g. Navy SEALs) and leading clinics (e.g. Memorial Sloan Kettering) in addition to its Direct to Consumer offering.

Khaled previously worked at the World Economic Forum (Davos) in Geneva, Switzerland and as a healthcare consultant at Oliver Wyman in Toronto, Canada. He studied public policy at the Harvard Kennedy School, where he received a full scholarship and graduated with distinction, and graduated with a triple concentration from McGill University in Montreal, Canada.

Khaled is a member of the Young Presidents Organization (YPO), is an Aspen Ideas Health Scholar, and has been awarded 40 under 40 (Arab America Foundation). He was recently selected by the World Government Summit as one of the top 100 Arab Pioneers. He serves on the boards of the Harvard Kennedy School's Center for Public Leadership (Alumni Council) and the Harvard Arab Alumni Association

The Great Penis Debate: Myths vs. Facts – New Episode of "Talk With Turek" Podcast

In this episode of the Talk With Turek podcast, Dr. Paul Turek and co-host Rob Clyde dive headfirst into a topic many are curious about but few discuss openly: the penis. We’re calling it The Great Penis Debate—an episode where myths are busted, facts are clarified, and no question is too awkward or off-limits.

Dr. Turek, a renowned men’s health expert, and Rob, known for his relatable wit, tackle everything you’ve ever wanted to know about the penis. Whether you’re looking for scientific insight, expert advice, or just plain curiosity, this episode has something for everyone.

What’s on the Table?

Here’s a sneak peek at the hot topics discussed:

• Penis Shape & Size: What’s “normal,” and does size really matter?
• Remodeling the Penis at Home: Can you safely make changes to your penis on your own?
• Adding Length: What works, what doesn’t, and what’s outright dangerous.
• Curvature of the Penis: From natural bends to Peyronie’s disease—when should you be concerned?
• Breaking Your Penis: Yes, it’s possible—but how does it happen, and can it be fixed?

For Partners, Too

This episode isn’t just for men—it’s a must-listen for partners as well! Understanding these topics can foster better communication, dispel myths, and lead to a healthier, more confident relationship.

Dr. Turek’s expertise combined with Rob’s candid approach makes this a conversation worth tuning into, whether you’re a patient, a partner, or just someone who’s curious about the science and reality of men’s health.

Don’t Miss Out

Tune in now to The Great Penis Debate and walk away informed, entertained, and maybe even a little more confident. Catch this episode on YouTube or your favorite podcast platform—Talk With Turek is here to educate, debunk myths, and tackle the topics others won’t.

Why Men Matter in the Reproductive Journey!

We’re excited to bring you another compelling episode of our podcast “Talk With Turek”, where we delve deep into the critical topics of men’s health and fertility. This week, join Reproductive Urologist, Master Micro-Surgeon, and Men's Fertility Expert Dr. Paul Turek, Co-Host and Producer Rob Clyde, and Dr. Janet Choi, Reproductive Endocrinologist and Chief Medical Officer of Progyny, as they tackle these important issues. Expect Dr. Turek and Rob’s trademark witty and often hilarious banter, musing on life and the nuances of male fertility and sexual health.

In this important episode, our expert trio discusses Progyny’s innovative approach to integrating men into their employee benefits program, highlighting how this inclusion enhances natural pregnancy rates and assisted reproductive outcomes. They emphasize the importance of prioritizing male partners in fertility assessments, revealing both economic advantages and increased success rates.

The significance of addressing male factor fertility cannot be overstated, especially in states where infertility benefits are often overlooked. Progyny is leading a paradigm shift by ensuring both partners receive the necessary support.

Dr. Turek and Dr. Choi clarify that while improving the quality of women’s eggs is a challenge, sperm quality can be modified, presenting a unique opportunity for better outcomes. They introduce Dr. Turek's pioneering FNA/Sperm Mapping technique—akin to a GPS for the testicles—which facilitates guided sperm retrieval. This innovative method preserves testosterone levels and minimizes unnecessary invasive procedures, achieving a 99% retrieval success rate at the Turek Clinic for men with a positive map.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of men’s health and fertility, packed with groundbreaking insights and actionable advice. We encourage you to talk to your employer about employee benefits for fertility.

Tune in now and join the conversation!

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To schedule a consultation with Dr. Turek and his team today, simply click here to get started.

Guest Bio:

Dr. Janet M. Choi is a board-certified reproductive endocrinologist and serves as the Chief Medical Officer for Progyny where she brings her expertise to ensure Progyny provides the highest quality fertility, family building and women’s health services to our members and continues to raise the bar as the industry leader.

Dr. Choi has written, published, and lectured extensively on infertility, onco-fertility, and fertility preservation. She is an active member of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, as well as the New York Obstetrical Society. She has been selected as one of New York Magazine’s Top Doctors as well as a New York Super Doctor annually since 2018; a Castle Connolly Exceptional Woman in Medicine every year since 2019; and has been annually listed with Castle Connolly’s “Top Doctors” since 2015.

Prior to Progyny, Dr. Choi was the medical director of CCRM New York for the last 7 years. Before CCRM, she was an assistant clinical professor in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Columbia University Medical Center and served as the Director of Onco-fertility and Co-Director of the Fertility Preservation Program.

Dr. Choi graduated Magna Cum Laude from Harvard University with an A.B. in English literature and earned her medical degree and completed her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Columbia University. She completed her sub-specialty fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at Weill Cornell Medical College in New York.

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• Janet: Janet Choi, MD, MSCP
• Progyny: @progyny,inc. 
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• Progyny: @progynyinc
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• Progyny: @progyny

In this provocative and insightful episode, globally recognized Reproductive Urologist and men’s fertility expert Dr. Paul Turek, co-host ,patient and producer Rob Clyde, and Dr. Neel Shah, CMO of Maven Clinic and entrepreneurial innovator, tackle men’s health and fertility head-on. Dubbed "fertility futurists" by Dr. Shah, this trio delves into the often-overlooked disparities in men’s health—like shorter life expectancy and higher rates of health conditions compared to women. They stress the importance of preventative care, healthy lifestyle choices, and the critical role men’s reproductive health plays in overall well-being.

The conversation embraces bold ideas and forward-thinking solutions. As fertility futurists, Dr. Turek and Dr. Shah delve into evolving trends like at-home semen analysis and weigh the pros and cons of AI's role in fertility treatments. Together, they raise a thought-provoking question: Could semen analysis become the male counterpart to the pap smear? They present a compelling argument for Dr. Turek’s groundbreaking concept that fertility serves as a vital biomarker for men’s overall health.

With humor and candor, the trio addresses the challenges of engaging men in their health, discussing the urgent need for better communication, education, and a more coordinated approach to men’s healthcare. The message is clear: preventative medicine must be prioritized to catch issues before they escalate, and men deserve to have their health needs front and center in the healthcare system.

This must-listen episode is packed with groundbreaking insights for anyone curious about the future of men’s health, fertility, and the innovations reshaping care. Learn what steps you can take to optimize your health and fertility with advice straight from the experts.

To schedule a consultation with Dr. Turek and his team today, simply click here to get started.

Guest: Neel Shah, MD

Dr. Neel Shah, MD, MPP, FACOG, is Chief Medical Officer of Maven Clinic, the largest virtual clinic for women's and family health, and visiting scientist at Harvard Medical School, He is a globally recognized expert in designing solutions that improve health care, and is listed among the "40 smartest people in health care" by the Becker's Hospital Review. His work to build equitable, trustworthy systems of care has been profiled by the New York Times, Good Morning America, and other outlets, and is featured in the documentaries “Color of Care,” produced by Oprah Winfrey, and “Aftershock,” which is currently streaming on Hulu.

Dr. Shah has written more than 50 peer-reviewed academic papers and contributed to four books, including as senior author of Understanding Value-Based Healthcare (McGraw-Hill), which Don Berwick has called "an instant classic" and Atul Gawande called "a masterful primer for all clinicians." Prior to joining the Harvard faculty, Dr. Shah founded Costs of Care, an NGO that curates insights from clinicians and patients to help delivery systems provide better care. In 2017, he co-founded the March for Moms Association, a coalition of more than 20 leading organizations, to increase public and private investment in the wellbeing of mothers. Dr. Shah serves on the advisory board of the National Institutes of Health, Office of Women's Health Research.

• Social:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/neeltshah and https://twitter.com/neel_shah
• Preprint: https://mavenpreprint.substack.com/