Christina O’Connor is a registered dietitian and the Senior Healthcare Account Manager at Pendulum Therapeutics. She received her Bachelor of Science at James Madison University and completed her Dietetic Internship through the Virginia Department of Health. Christina spent her early career working in pediatrics where she fell in love with microbiome science during her role as a NICU dietitian at The Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters.

Christina is shining a light on the amazing role of Akkermansia, a groundbreaking probiotic strain that supports the microbiome and is linked to longevity and health optimization. She shares insights from her work in neonatal intensive care units to cutting-edge biotech labs, showing Akkermansia's huge impact on gut barrier integrity and metabolism. We discuss the gut-brain connection, how dysbiosis can lead to various health issues, and the critical role of short-chain fatty acids like butyrate in activating the GLP-1 hormone. We also touch on the importance of sourcing quality probiotic supplements, and preview some upcoming collaborations at the Institute for Functional Medicine Conference.

Topics discussed in this episode include:

• How Akkermansia impacts gut health and longevity, linked to human milk and centenarians.

• Why probiotics are crucial for maintaining gut barrier integrity and boosting health.

• How the gut-brain axis affects physiological and psychological conditions like mood disorders.

• Why Akkermansia and Clostridium butyricum are vital for short-chain fatty acid production.

• How butyrate activates GLP-1 hormone, which is essential for weight management and metabolism.

• Why Akkermansia supplements require careful sourcing to ensure authenticity and efficacy.

• How Pendulum Therapeutics leads in manufacturing live Akkermansia with meticulous processes.

• Why gut microbiome transplants have significant implications for obesity management.

• How Akkermansia's role in gut permeability impacts skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.

• How butyrate production in the colon supports colonic health and mitochondrial function.

• Why combining butyrate with Akkermansia might enhance patient outcomes.

If you want to try for yourself, use code YOODIRECTHEALTH for 20% off your first membership order at PendulumLife.com

Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com

Pendulum Therapeutics on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pendulumlifeco

Dr. Tiphany Hall is a nationally recognized expert in business growth strategy, revenue optimization, product-led sales and marketing, and AI-powered transformation in Medical Aesthetics. As CGO of Aesthetic Record, she’s scaled a top tier EMR and Practice Management platform without venture backing, blending compliance authority, fintech expertise, and operational strategy into one powerful package. She’s spent the last decade educating Medical Aesthetic Professionals–clinical and administrative–through her work with GAIN by Galderma and as the Co-Founder and Clinical Director of Aesthetic Next, an international medical education conference.

Dr. Hall guides us through an exploration of the dynamic landscape of wellness and aesthetics, discussing trends like the shift towards holistic health and natural treatments. We address the knowledge gaps in hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and the importance of innovative training for practitioners as more and more practices add in this service. Building on from that, we talk about the challenges of misinformation and the scarcity of real educational opportunities in the field. Dr. Hall finishes off with a sneak peek of what to expect in this year’s Aesthetic Next conference.

Topics discussed in this episode include:

• Why bridging clinical skills and business acumen is vital for scaling aesthetic practices.

• How strategic business practices can transform a single practice into a thriving business empire.

• Why understanding profit margins and market strategies is crucial for aesthetic professionals.

• How the wellness and aesthetics industry is shifting towards holistic health approaches.

• Why the acceptance of both internal wellness and external aesthetics is growing in the industry.

• How GLP-1 medications influence opportunities and challenges in modern wellness trends.

• Why comprehensive education in HRT is so important.

• How the Aesthetic Next conference combines education and innovation in aesthetics.

• How the conference's cadaver lab and vendor hall offer unique learning experiences.

• Testosterone management and how it can be effectively monetized.

• How peptide therapy can be implemented in clinical settings.

• Why attending Aesthetic Next can expand your knowledge in aesthetics, wellness, and business acumen.

• Why the conference's global theme offers insights into international beauty trends.

Register for Aesthetic Next at https://aestheticnext.com and use code YOO75.

Dr. Hall on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drtiphanyhall

Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com

Dr. Patrick K. Porter, PhD, is an award-winning author/speaker and the Founder of BrainTap. He has dedicated his life to studying neuropsychology with the goal of bettering a billion brains. For years it was believed that we have a set number of brain cells, that our intelligence quotient is fixed and our brains do not change. Dr. Porter’s clinical experience and research told a different story, revealing that the human brain is, in fact, plastic, making it capable of change, improvement and expansion. This exploration led to the development of BrainTap, transforming the lives of thousands of people.

We’re diving into the fascinating world of cognitive health with Dr. Porter in this episode. We explore the groundbreaking science of neuroplasticity, challenging the outdated belief that our intelligence and brain cells are fixed. Dr. Porter shares his inspiring journey from witnessing his father's recovery through the Silva Method to developing the first portable light and sound machine. We discuss the transformative potential of BrainTap, which combines light, sound, and neurotherapy to enhance brain health and stress management. Getting into the interconnectedness of the brain, heart, and gut, we look at how innovative technologies like red light therapy can synchronize brain hemispheres and boost cognitive efficiency.

Topics discussed in this episode include:

• How Dr. Porter's personal journey led to the creation of BrainTap.

• Why outdated beliefs about fixed intelligence and brain cells can be challenged by neuroplasticity.

• How BrainTap combines light, sound, and neurotherapy to enhance brain health.

• Why light is considered an underappreciated nutrient in cognitive health.

• How BrainTap promotes relaxation and stress management for overall wellness.

• Why understanding energy fields is so useful for brain, heart, and gut health.

• How technologies like red light therapy synchronize brain hemispheres and improve cognitive efficiency.

• Why brain priming is effective in high-stress environments and integrates with other technologies.

• How positive thinking and lifestyle changes can easily contribute to brain optimization.

• How energy fields and neural connections between brain, heart, and gut impact health.

• Why sensory perception can be enhanced through BrainTap.

• How binaural beats and isochronic tones are able to improve cognitive function.

• Why stress is an adaptive response that can build brain capacity.

• About Dr. Porter's upcoming book "The Brain Fitness Blueprint.”

Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com

BrainTap: https://braintap.com

Brain Fitness Blueprint: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/790580/brain-fitness-blueprint-by-patrick-k-porter-phd-and-ruchika-sikri

Shalin Shah is a distinguished leader in the field of metabolic health, specializing in testosterone replacement therapy. As the Chief Executive Officer of Marius Pharmaceuticals, he was instrumental in the development and FDA approval of KYZATREX® (testosterone undecanoate) CIII Capsules, an oral testosterone treatment for adult men with low or no testosterone levels due to certain medical conditions. With a global investment background, Shalin transitioned into healthcare with a mission to revolutionize the industry through metabolic health. His leadership at Marius Pharmaceuticals is marked by innovative strategies that prioritize consumer access and education.

We explore Shalin’s personal journey in this episode, including how it sparked a mission to redefine hormone health through innovative solutions like KYZATREX. Shalin sheds light on the misconceptions surrounding testosterone and the challenges in removing black box warnings. We discuss KYZATREX, a cutting-edge oral therapy that employs lymphatic absorption to preserve liver health and supports fertility, making it ideal for younger men. We also examine its ability to maintain hormone balance without the need for aromatase inhibitors. Join us as we navigate the future of testosterone treatments, breaking barriers in hormone replacement therapy and emphasizing the importance of education and awareness.

Topics discussed in this episode include:

• How Shalin's personal journey influenced his mission in testosterone replacement therapy.

• Why dismantling stigma around testosterone is crucial for hormone health advancement.

• How KYZATREX uses lymphatic absorption to prevent liver damage and support fertility.

• Why KYZATREX's design eliminates the need for aromatase inhibitors in therapy.

• Exploring KYZATREX's research on maintaining hormone balance and fertility.

• Misconceptions about testosterone and hormone replacement therapy.

• Why younger men find KYZATREX appealing due to its fertility-preserving benefits.

• Understanding KYZATREX's impact on normalizing luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone levels.

• How KYZATREX offers a more balanced hormonal approach without raising estrogen levels.

• Exploring the significance of testosterone as a vital metabolic hormone.

• How testosterone deficiency relates to conditions like insulin sensitivity and muscle mass issues.

• Why “normal” testosterone ranges need re-evaluation for better diagnosis and treatment.

• How free testosterone and SHBG levels influence testosterone therapy outcomes.

• How ongoing research is exploring KYZATREX's impact on sperm levels and testicular volume.

KYZATREX: https://www.kyzatrex.com

The Testosterone Project: https://testosteroneproject.com

Shalin on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themetabolicceo

Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com

Dr. Asare B. Christian is a board-certified physical medicine and rehabilitation physician, founder of Aether Medicine in Wayne, Mainline Philadelphia, where he focuses on cellular health to solve pain, improve performance, and Healthspan. He combines a wide range of medical disciplines including pain, cellular, neurorehabilitation, and longevity medicine with personalized lifestyle modifications. Dr. Christian's work is distinguished by his empathetic patient care and a deep understanding of medical science combined with personalized health solutions.

In this episode we sit down with Dr. Christian to explore the groundbreaking concept of "paingevity." We talk about how merging pain management with longevity medicine can not only alleviate discomfort, but also extend and enhance life quality. Our discussion covers the complexities of neuroinflammation, chronic pain, and gut health, emphasizing holistic solutions over traditional therapies. We also discuss advanced, non-opioid pain management strategies and the importance of sex hormones in modulating pain.

Topics discussed in this episode include:

• Why Dr. Christian initially hesitated to enter pain management, but later embraced its importance.

• How thinking about paingevity contributes to longer, healthier lives by addressing pain.

• Why cellular health and holistic lifestyle changes are crucial in modern pain management.

• How neuroinflammation, chronic pain, and gut health are interconnected.

• Why diet, movement, stress management, and sleep are pivotal in influencing pain perception.

• How cultural misconceptions affect the understanding of pain, especially in older adults.

• Why non-opioid compounds and regenerative therapies are innovative for pain relief.

• How Prolozone therapy can provide pain relief without dependency risks.

• Why sex hormones like estrogen and androgens are essential in modulating pain.

• How advanced strategies integrate hormone replacement therapy to reduce opioid dependency.

• Why misconceptions about pain and aging need to be demystified for better treatment outcomes.

• What biomechanical deficits and lifestyle factors are central to managing chronic pain.

• Why supplements like Theracurmin and butyrate are useful for their anti-inflammatory benefits.

• How advanced therapies like GLP-1s and regenerative treatments can transform pain management.

Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com

Aether Medicine: https://www.aethermedicine.com

Aether Medicine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aether_medicine

As the founder and CEO of Living Well Dallas Functional Medicine Center, Dr. Betty Murray pioneered the first multi-specialty clinic in Dallas dedicated to the functional medicine model. Her unwavering mission is to revolutionize the medical landscape and provide a precision healthcare experience for every patient. After being diagnosed with colitis in her early 30s while working as an IT executive, she embarked on a transformative 25+ year odyssey, returning to a Ph.D. program and diving deep into women’s health research. Today, Betty is a leading expert in women's hormones, focusing on their intricate interplay with immune, gut, and metabolic functions

Alongside Dr. Murray, we’re examining and debunking a ton of myths associated with hormones in this episode. We also delve into her personal battle with colitis and the pivotal role nutrition played in her healing process. We unpack the controversies surrounding hormone replacement therapy (HRT), especially the fallout from the 2002 Women's Health Initiative study. Dr. Murray provides clarity on the differences between bioidentical and synthetic hormones, emphasizing informed discussions with healthcare providers. We later explore testosterone's often-overlooked significance in women's health and the need for empowered partnerships between patients and their doctors.

Topics discussed in this episode include:

• Why Dr. Murray’s personal battle with debilitating colitis led her to thoroughly explore nutrition for holistic healing.

• Why Dr. Murray focuses intensely on debunking prevalent myths around HRT.

• How the pivotal 2002 Women's Health Initiative study significantly impacted public perception of HRT.

• Why the study's methodological flaws unfortunately fueled misconceptions about hormone therapy risks.

• How Dr. Murray clearly differentiates between bioidentical and synthetic hormone treatments.

• Why bioidentical hormones effectively can reduce cancer, dementia, and cardiovascular health risks.

• How testosterone is significantly important for women's muscle, brain, and bone health.

• Why bioidentical hormones generally carry zero clotting risk when used appropriately.

• How hormone therapy timing can be crucial for optimal brain health benefits in women.

• Why informed consent is critically important in prescribing effective hormone therapies.

• How environmental factors like pervasive toxins can mimic estrogen and negatively impact health.

• How Dr. Murray strongly advocates for a more personalized approach to hormonal health management.

Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com

MENRVA Telemedicine: https://getmenrva.com

Dr. Betty Murray’s website: https://www.bettymurray.com

Dr. Betty Murray on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drbettymurray

Menopause Mastery on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/menopause-mastery/id1607369247

Menopause Mastery on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0qgY9Cubf9cUm6zz47p6vt?si=be1ca18a4464455a

Jim Beebe is the Founder and Head Coach for Unbreakable Athletics Academy in Plainfield, Indiana since 2013. Unbreakable Athletics is a local strength and conditioning gym. He has coached over 400 student athletes in college, high school and middle school. More than 10% of his athletes advanced to play in college with more than half of those playing at the Division I level. In addition, he coached over 1,000 adults in CrossFit, strength training, and nutrition.

Jim is with us today to share his expertise on the intersection of functional medicine and athletic coaching. Jim, who transitioned from a career in finance to fitness, tells us his journey of transforming the lives of countless student athletes and adults through his innovative coaching system. We hear about fundamental strength training techniques, emphasizing the importance of mental resilience and the role of hormone management in achieving peak performance. With a focus on optimizing recovery through consistent sleep routines and nutrition, Jim offers insights from his book, "Athlete Builder: The Blueprint to Build Champion Athletes," and previews his upcoming Athlete Builder Summit.

Topics discussed in this episode include:

• Why Jim's strongman and powerlifting background shapes his innovative coaching system.

• How Jim's coaching integrates mental resilience, sports knowledge, and physical training.

• Why fundamental strength training techniques are vital for building strength.

• How mastering basic techniques early helps young athletes avoid injuries and improve performance.

• Why optimizing hormone levels is crucial for athletic performance and overall well-being.

• How recovery strategies like consistent sleep routines enhance training effectiveness.

• Why muscle building is so good for longevity and overall health.

• Why hormone imbalances like low testosterone can hinder recovery and energy.

• How individualized nutrition and training plans aid in achieving specific fitness goals.

• How tracking progress with tools and KPIs helps athletes overcome plateaus and achieve goals.

• What to expect from the Athlete Builder Summit.

• The popularity of wearables, along with which ones Jim actually likes and recommends.

Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com

Athlete Builder: https://www.athlete-builder.com

Athlete Builder Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/34QCcodvAqAgj7iwk3tdrj?si=7a063b034d694a50

Athlete Builder Podcast on iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/athlete-builder/id1715521920

Athlete Builder on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1athletebuilder/

Athlete Builder on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/athlete_builder

Athlete Builder on X: https://x.com/AthleteBuilder

Athlete Builder on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@athlete.builder

Athlete Builder on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Athlete-Builder

Dr. Joelle Lieman, MD, is the CEO and founder of Elite Medspa and Wellness Center in the Boston area. She is a highly respected board-certified OB/GYN and an esteemed expert in aesthetic medicine, women and men’s hormone health and sexual wellness. Her passion lies in empowering her patients, whether through personalized health care plans or advanced aesthetic treatments that enhance confidence and well-being.

After sharing her journey from a traditional OB/GYN to an innovator in aesthetics and integrative medicine, Dr. Lieman takes us through how she helps her menopausal patients navigate this new era of their life. She talks about her experiences with pioneering treatments like the O-shot, and her insights into the transformative role of hormones in women's health. We explore the profound effects of testosterone on postmenopausal women, drawing on a study by Dr. Rebecca Glaser, and discuss estrogen's critical role in vaginal and pelvic health. Dr. Lieman also reveals that she is a breast cancer survivor of over 15 years, which she references to show the importance of personalized hormone health. We wrap up by celebrating the growing awareness and advocacy around menopause, encouraging everyone to educate themselves and embrace self-advocacy.

Topics discussed in this episode include:

• How Dr. Lieman transitioned from a traditional OB/GYN to aesthetics and functional medicine.

• Why testosterone plays a crucial role in menopausal women's health.

• The WHI study of 2002 and why it was so flawed, yet still causes misconceptions today.

• How Dr. Rebecca Glaser’s study highlights testosterone's benefits for mood and breast cancer prevention.

• The O-shot and how it can rejuvenate the vagina’s natural moisturization during menopause.

• Misconceptions about testosterone and its therapy options.

• How estrogen therapy impacts vaginal and pelvic health in women.

• How menopause conversations are gaining momentum, encouraging education and awareness.

• How Dr. Lieman's integrative medicine journey reflects courage and adaptability.

• Why understanding estrogen's role in health is vital for addressing menopause symptoms.

• How using personalized care and advocacy will result in optimizing your hormone health.

• Why traditional medicine's shortcomings show the need for personalized approaches.

Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com

My Elite Medspa: https://www.myelitemedspa.com

My Elite Academy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/my.eliteacademy

Dr. Joelle Leiman on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjoellelieman

My Elite Medspa on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/myelitemedspa

Heather Harper is a dedicated Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s in Nursing from the University of South Alabama. She has worked and trained closely over the last several years with Hashimoto’s expert Josh Redd and is highly trained in cutting-edge anti-aging and regenerative therapies, including bioidentical hormone replacement, IV ozone therapy, peptide therapy, and more.

Together, we’re taking a deep dive into mastering Hashimoto’s care through advanced, integrative medicine. We reveal a treasure trove of information on groundbreaking treatments like ozone therapy and peptides, essential for effectively managing autoimmune diseases. Heather explains distinctions between EBOO and standard ozone treatments, sharing first-hand patient accounts of relief and reduced inflammation. We also cover the strategic use of supplements like turmeric and vitamin D, and medications like tyrosine, to support thyroid health.

Topics discussed in this episode include:

• How Heather transitioned from NICU care to holistic health through personal family experiences with chronic illnesses.

• Why functional and integrative medicine is vital for managing autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto's.

• How ozone therapy, including EBOO, can provide extended relief for autoimmune conditions.

• How to address the Herxheimer reaction in chronic cases when using ozone therapy.

• Why starting with standard ozone treatments can gauge patient tolerance before advancing to EBOO.

• How supplements like turmeric, glutathione, resveratrol, and vitamin D support thyroid health.

• Why thyroid glandulars and medications can be great for personalized Hashimoto's care.

• How liver detoxification and adrenal support contribute to managing autoimmune conditions holistically.

• Why peptides like thymosin alpha 1 are effective in supporting the immune system.

• How integrative therapies can improve conditions like Lyme disease and mold exposure.

• Why trust and experimentation are important in exploring integrative medicine and patient care.

Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com

Palmavita Clinic: https://palmavitaclinic.com

Palmavita Clinic on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/palmavitaclinic

Heather on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heatherh.np

Kelli Binnings is a brand psychology-obsessed creative with 15+ years of experience shaping brands across industries like travel, fitness, beauty, and wellness. She specializes in uncovering a brand’s core identity to craft meaningful, people-minded strategies that authentically connect with audiences and teams.

We’re learning all about brand building with Kelli today as she offers invaluable insights into creating authentic, people-centered brands, specifically in the wellness industry. We explore the critical importance of personal authenticity and the challenges of maintaining it in the fast-paced world of social media. Kelli shares tips on how to build a memorable and trustworthy brand by focusing on perception, consistency, and audience engagement. We also discuss the balance between authenticity and professionalism, which can sometimes be complicated in the health and wellness space. Kelli even tells us her methods of how to overcome branding pitfalls and measure success.

Topics discussed in this episode include:

• Why authenticity is crucial for creating resonant, people-centered brands, especially in healthcare.

• How maintaining authenticity on social media can be challenging for healthcare professionals.

• Why perception and consistency are essential for building a trustworthy brand identity.

• How personal branding influences business success and pre-establishes trust with clients.

• Strategies that can overcome common branding pitfalls like inconsistency in messaging.

• How storytelling and case studies can engage audiences while respecting patient confidentiality.

• Why balancing authenticity with professionalism is vital in our industry.

• Tools that can be used for effective content creation and scheduling, even for beginners.

• Why measuring brand success involves customer feedback, surveys, and engagement metrics.

• How to stay ahead with marketing trends and adapt strategies for ongoing relevance.

• Why niche specialization can be challenging.

• How blending transparency with creativity can effectively market your services.

• What foundational elements are key when building a consistent and trustworthy brand presence.

• How Kelli's resources, like her brand course and quiz, can aid in refining brand strategies.

Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com

How to Build SMART Brands course: https://www.howtobuildsmartbrands.com/course

SMART Brand Quiz: https://howsmartisyourbrand.scoreapp.com

Brand Measurement Toolkit: https://buildsmartbrands.myflodesk.com/brandmetricstoolkit

Kelli on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buildsmartbrands

Kelli on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellibinnings