The Clear Health Podcast

The Clear Health Podcast

By Tom Rountree DOSociety & CultureMedicineHealth & FitnessEducationSelf-Improvement
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The Clear Health Podcast episodes

  • 027 - Brian Imholz | A Journey through Jiu Jitsu

    GraceSEMO: https://graciesemo.com/

    On this podcast, I sit down with Brian Imholz a black belt instructor and owner of Gracie Humaitá SEMO. He describes his first enthralling memories of starting jiu-jitsu. While training in Kajukenbo he attended a seminar with JW Wright, and was humbled by him during sparring. This led him to train more seriously and attend a Royler Gracie seminar that changed his view of martial arts. He explains jiu-jitsu as a “gentle/pliable” art enabled by the tap system, contrasting it with striking arts, and emphasizes building a respectful, family-oriented gym culture that prioritizes safety, structure without rigidity, and community.

    Jiu-jitsu is as real-time problem-solving, mindfulness, and stress relief, with benefits for PTSD and post-college social connection. We discuss self-defense versus sport jiu-jitsu, applications in healthcare and policing for safely controlling people, how Brian manages new students and ego, options like free trial classes and private lessons, gym hygiene and flooring upgrades, and Brian’s progression to a third-degree black belt.

    00:00 Jujitsu In The Moment
    00:26 First Class Reality Check
    03:38 Royler Seminar Spark
    04:52 Why Jujitsu Feels Gentle
    07:36 Family First Academy Culture
    08:25 Mindfulness And Trauma Relief
    09:41 Community Across Walks
    11:56 Finding The Right School
    13:23 Policing Safety And Ego
    17:41 Humbling Lessons And Growth
    18:46 Self Defense And Equality
    20:18 Training Paths Self Defense Vs Tech
    20:38 Sport vs Self Defense
    21:42 ER Restraint Story
    23:27 Jujitsu for Healthcare Police
    24:37 Joining the Gym
    25:48 Safety Confidence Benefits
    28:27 Gym Culture Facilities
    30:13 Belt Journey Promotions
    33:38 Ranks Kids Women
    35:40 Final Advice Sign Off
    36:40 Medical Disclaimer

    #health #jiujitsu #doctor #selfdefense #family #stress

    38 min
  • 026 - Colonoscopy Alternatives and the Updated ACS Guidelines

    My Site: www.drtomrountree.com

    This episode of the Clear Health Show discusses the latest updates to the American Cancer Society's colorectal cancer screening guidelines, including new testing options like stool-based and blood-based tests, and emphasizes the importance of early detection and lifestyle factors.

    Key Points

    Updated ACS screening guidelines for colorectal cancer
    New at-home stool and blood tests for screening
    Importance of early detection and lifestyle factors
    Colonoscopy as the gold standard
    High-risk vs. average-risk screening protocols

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Colorectal Cancer Screening
    02:14 New Screening Guidelines and Options
    07:05 Understanding the Importance of Colonoscopy
    09:29 Symptoms and Early Detection of Colorectal Cancer
    10:25 Lifestyle Factors in Colorectal Cancer Prevention
    12:00 Summary of ACS Guidelines and Final Thoughts

    14 min
  • 025 - GLP-1 Success | Avoiding the Nausea and Stopping Muscle Loss

    GLP-1 Success Guide: https://www.drtomrountree.com/glp1-success-guide

    In this podcast Dr. Tom Rountree discusses how he helps his patients achieve success with GLP-1 medications. Learn about how to avoid the nausea and muscle wasting that can occur when starting these types of medications and specific details on supportive lifestyle habits.

    Chapters

    00:00 Understanding GLP-1 Medications
    01:38 Getting Started with GLP-1
    02:24 Vitamins and Supplements
    15:17 Sleep and Stress Management

    20 min
  • 024 - Unlocking the Hidden Benefits of Exercise

    My Site: www.drtomrountree.com

    In this conversation, Dr. Tom Rountree discusses the multifaceted, often undisclosed benefits of exercise beyond physical fitness. He emphasizes how exercise can improve emotional regulation, enhance brain function, promote better sleep, regulate appetite, reduce inflammation, increase pain tolerance, and foster social connections. Dr. Rountree highlights the importance of viewing exercise as a holistic intervention that impacts various aspects of health and well-being, ultimately leading to a positive change in identity and self-efficacy.

    Takeaways

    The majority of people lack exposure to exercise in childhood.
    Exercise significantly improves emotional regulation.
    Regular exercise enhances brain function and learning capabilities.
    Exercise stabilizes sleep patterns and improves sleep quality.
    Physical activity recalibrates appetite and hormonal signals.
    Exercise has anti-inflammatory effects that benefit overall health.
    Engaging in exercise can increase pain tolerance.
    Regular workouts can shift one's identity towards a healthier self.
    Exercise fosters social connections and improves relational dynamics.
    Exercise serves as a systems-level intervention for overall well-being.

    Chapters

    00:00 The Hidden Benefits of Exercise
    04:27 Enhanced Brain Function and Learning
    10:16 Improved Sleep Architecture
    14:06 Appetite Regulation and Hormonal Balance
    18:10 Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Exercise
    21:27 Pain Tolerance and Chronic Pain Management
    24:22 Identity Transformation Through Exercise
    27:14 Social and Relational Benefits of Exercise
    30:30 The Systems-Level Impact of Exercise

     

    32 min
  • 023 - From Goals to Intentions: Using Journaling to Define the Year You Want to Live

     

    My Site: www.drtomrountree.com

    In this conversation, Dr. Tom Rountree discusses the importance of aligning personal goals with one's identity through the use of intentions rather than traditional goal-setting. He emphasizes that many people fail to achieve their goals because they revert to their original identity when faced with challenges. By creating intentions that reflect one's values and identity, individuals can foster a more sustainable approach to personal development. The conversation also highlights the significance of journaling as a tool for self-reflection and maintaining focus on intentions throughout the year.

    Takeaways

    Goals are often external and brittle, relying on motivation.
    Most people revert to their original identity when faced with challenges.
    Intentions are internal commitments that align with personal values.
    Writing down intentions increases the likelihood of sticking to them.
    Journaling helps in stress management and personal habit change.
    Intentions should be identity-based, simple, and memorable.
    Creating intentions allows for flexibility in achieving goals.
    Intentions act as cognitive bridges between wanting to change and enacting change.
    Regularly reviewing intentions helps maintain focus and alignment.
    Journaling can reveal patterns and triggers in behavior.

    Chapters

    00:00 The Challenge of Sticking to Goals
    02:50 Understanding Identity and Goals
    06:11 The Power of Intentions
    09:02 Creating Strong Intentions
    12:01 The Role of Journaling in Intentions
    17:53 Implementing the Bullet Journal Method
    24:01 Setting Intentions for the New Year

    23 min
  • 022 - Dr. Anthony Keele - Treating Perimenopausal and Menopause Symptoms with Hormone Replacement Therapy

    My Clinic: www.ebomd.com

    Get in touch with Dr. Anthony Keele

    In this episode, Dr. Anthony Keele and Dr. Rountree discusses the importance of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for women experiencing perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms. Highlighting the historical context of HRT, particularly the Women's Health Initiative study, and its impact on the perception of hormone therapy. Dr. Keele explains the physiological changes women undergo during menopause, the symptoms they may experience, and the benefits of HRT in alleviating these symptoms. He emphasizes the need for personalized treatment plans and the importance of proactive health management. The conversation also addresses common concerns and misconceptions surrounding hormone therapy, encouraging women to seek appropriate care for their hormonal health.

    Takeaways

    • Hormone replacement therapy can dramatically change your life.
    • Menopause is a process, not a single event.
    • Patients often don't realize how much they were struggling until they receive treatment.
    • It's important to be proactive about hormonal health.
    • The FDA has removed black box warnings for estrogen, making it safer for use.
    • Bioidentical hormones are preferred for therapy due to their compatibility with the body.
    • You need to know how to fix issues that arise during hormone therapy, such as bleeding.
    • There's no perfect treatment; understanding risks and benefits is crucial.
    • Women should seek out providers who specialize in hormone therapy for better outcomes.
    • Optimized living involves addressing hormonal decline to improve overall health.

      • Chapters

      00:00 Introduction to Hormone Replacement Therapy
      08:02 The Impact of the Women's Health Initiative
      10:58 Understanding Menopause and Hormonal Decline
      17:42 Symptoms of Menopause and Climacteric Syndrome
      25:47 Treatment Options for Hormone Replacement Therapy
      30:29 Research and Evolving Perspectives on Hormone Therapy
      39:18 Optimized Living and Hormonal Health
      43:23 Understanding Hormonal Health and Its Impact
      48:25 Addressing Menopausal Symptoms Effectively
      54:16 The Importance of Tailored Hormone Replacement Therapy
      01:00:56 Navigating Hormone Replacement Therapy Challenges
      01:20:29 Encouragement for Women Facing Hormonal Changes

       

      1 hr 13 min
    • 021 - Dr Drew Bird | Childrens Food Allergies, Seasonal Allergies, the Neffy Pen, and a new Peanut Patch

      My Website : www.drtomrountree.com

      In this podcast episode, Dr. Drew Bird and Dr. Tom Rountree discusses the rising prevalence of food allergies, particularly peanut allergies, and the importance of early introduction of allergens in children's diets. He emphasizes the need for proper testing and management of food allergies, including the role of allergists and the latest innovations in treatment such as oral immunotherapy. The conversation also touches on seasonal allergies, their management, and the impact of genetics and environment on allergic diseases.

      Key Takeaways

      • Food allergies have gained significant attention in recent years.
      • Introducing allergens early can prevent allergies.
      • Minor reactions should not lead to avoidance of foods.
      • Delayed introduction of allergens increases allergy risk.
      • Keeping allergens in the diet promotes tolerance.
      • Broad food allergy panels are not recommended.
      • Most food allergies can resolve over time.
      • Oral immunotherapy is a promising treatment for allergies.
      • Starting allergy medications before the season can help manage symptoms. Consulting an allergist is crucial for effective allergy management.

        • Chapters

        00:00 Introduction to Food Allergies
        02:29 The Importance of Early Introduction of Allergens
        05:07 Understanding Allergic Reactions and Testing
        07:54 Managing Food Allergies in Schools
        10:38 The Role of Genetics and Environment in Allergies
        13:18 Innovations in Allergy Treatment
        16:03 Navigating Food Allergy Testing
        18:30 Desensitization and Immunotherapy
        21:37 Seasonal Allergies and Management Strategies
        24:08 Final Thoughts on Allergy Management
        41:41 Disclaimer

        44 min
      • 20 - Type 1 Diabetes - Diagnosis, Stages, Screening, and Treatment

        My Site: www.drtomrountree.com

        Summary In this podcast, Dr. Tom Rountree discusses Type 1 diabetes, focusing on its symptoms, the importance of screening, the stages of the disease, and current and future treatment options. He emphasizes the need for early detection to prevent complications like diabetic ketoacidosis and highlights the role of counseling and support for families managing this chronic condition. The conversation also covers resources available for families and children living with Type 1 diabetes.

        Takeaways

        Type 1 diabetes symptoms include excessive thirst and frequent urination.
        Screening is crucial to prevent diabetic ketoacidosis.
        Fruity smelling breath can indicate ketoacidosis in children.
        Nine out of ten children with Type 1 diabetes have no family history.
        Screening for antibodies is essential for early detection.
        Teplyzomab can delay the onset of stage 3 diabetes.
        Children can lead normal lives with proper management.
        Counseling is important for both children and caregivers.
        The American Diabetes Association offers valuable resources.
        Type 1 diabetes camps provide support and community for kids.

        Chapters

        00:00 Understanding Type 1 Diabetes Symptoms
        07:05 The Importance of Screening for Type 1 Diabetes
        13:31 Stages of Type 1 Diabetes
        15:43 Current and Future Treatments for Type 1 Diabetes
        22:00 Living with Type 1 Diabetes: Management and Support

        29 min
      • 019 - Nutritional Epidemiology, Teaching Kitchens, and the Power of an Avocado | Dr. Lorena Pacheco PhD

        LEARN HOW TO GET HEALTHY AND FIT: drtomrountree.com

         
        "We found a lower risk of total CVD and heart disease with the intake of half a cup of avocado." - Lorena Pacheco

         

        In this episode of the Clear Health podcast, Dr. Lorena Pacheco, a nutritional epidemiologist at Harvard, and Tom discuss her work in public health, focusing on culturally appropriate interventions to prevent cardiometabolic diseases in minority populations. The conversation covers the importance of fresh ingredients, the role of cooking at home, and the innovative teaching kitchens designed to educate families about nutrition. Dr. Pacheco also highlights the benefits of avocados in improving physical activity and reducing cardiovascular disease risk, while addressing the complexities of dietary assessment tools and the significance of understanding causation versus correlation in nutrition research.

        Key Takeaways

        • Nutritional epidemiology studies the relationship between diet and disease.
        • Cultural background significantly influences food preferences and choices.
        • Cooking at home can lead to healthier eating habits and improved health outcomes.
        • Teaching kitchens provide practical nutrition education and foster community engagement.
        • Mindfulness practices can decrease distractions and enhance the cooking and eating experience.
        • Dietary assessment tools like FFQs must be chosen carefully for the right study population.
        • Nutritional foods, like Avocados, can increase families' physical activity.
        • Increased avocado consumption is linked to lower cardiovascular disease risk.
        • If you have an avocado allergy, you may also have one to latex.
        • Understanding causation versus correlation is critical in nutrition research.
        • Future research and episodes will explore the impact of sugar-sweetened beverages on health.

          • Show Links

          Dr. Lorena Pacheco's Publications: https://hsph.harvard.edu/profile/lorena-pacheco/
          Thich Nhat Hanh Center for Mindfulness: https://www.mindfulpublichealth.org/
          Harvard Professional and Lifelong Learning: https://www.harvard.edu/academics/professional-and-lifelong-learning/

          Chapters

          00:00 Introduction to Nutritional Epidemiology
          03:00 Cultural Influences on Food Choices
          06:04 The Importance of Simplicity in Cooking
          08:50 Teaching Kitchens and Culturally Relevant Interventions
          11:57 Mindfulness in Nutrition and Cooking
          15:00 Understanding Food Frequency Questionnaires
          21:58 Causation vs. Correlation in Nutrition Research
          40:55 Understanding Causation in Nutrition Research
          44:00 The Avocado Study: Impact on Physical Activity
          52:26 Cohort Studies Explained: A Deep Dive
          56:50 Avocado and Cardiovascular Health: Key Findings
          01:07:23 Nutritional Education and Resources from Harvard

          1 hr 5 min
        • 018 - Jeremy Counts - Fighting for Real Change for Drug Pricing

          LEARN HOW TO GET HEALTHY: www.drtomrountree.com

          Join the Fight against PBMs: https://www.truthrx.org/

          In today's episode, we discuss creating real change at the legal reform level with Dr. Jeremy Counts, an independent pharmacist in Blacksburg, Virginia. Here is his pharmacy: https://countspharmacy.com/ .

          Main Takeaway

          Get out and talk with your politicians and join organizations that support fair practices for pharmacists, doctors, and patients. 

          Additional Takeaways

          • PBMs are a significant middleman in the drug supply chain.
          • Pharmacists often fear retaliation from PBMs for speaking out.
          • Hidden costs from PBMs inflate drug prices for patients.
          • GoodRx operates as a third-party price-fixing scheme.
          • Direct primary care can help patients access medications more affordably.
          • Legislative efforts are crucial for pharmacy reform.
          • The FTC is actively investigating PBM practices.
          • Vertical integration of PBMs creates a lack of competition.
          • Pharmacists need to push back against unfair practices.
          • Accountability for PBMs is essential for a fair healthcare system. Jeremy Counts engaged with the FTC through advocacy work and communications.
          • The importance of backing the FTC with evidence and support from healthcare professionals.
          • Health economists often overlook the real-world complexities of healthcare pricing.
          • Independent pharmacies must unite to survive against larger corporate entities.
          • Transitioning to a cash-based model requires careful planning and market understanding.
          • Pharmacists need to advocate for fair reimbursement to sustain their businesses.
          • Building effective advocacy teams can amplify the impact of lobbying efforts.
          • Grassroots movements are essential for pushing legislative changes in healthcare.
          • Establishing relationships with lawmakers is crucial for effective advocacy.
          • Pharmacists should not wait until their backs are against the wall to start advocating.

            • Chapters

            00:00 Introduction to Pharmacy Challenges
            01:00 Understanding PBMs and Their Impact
            03:48 Pharmacists' Fear and Retaliation
            07:08 Hidden Costs of PBMs
            10:58 The Role of GoodRx and Data Privacy
            13:54 Direct Primary Care and Pharmacy Collaboration
            17:01 Legislative Efforts Against PBMs
            20:54 The FTC's Role and Future of Pharmacy Reform
            24:47 Engaging with the FTC: A Call to Action
            30:46 The Importance of Unity in Healthcare Advocacy
            36:57 Building Effective Advocacy Teams
            40:44 Current Legislative Efforts and Strategies
            46:58 Empowering Pharmacists to Fight Back

            51 min

          About The Clear Health Podcast

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          An Intersection of Life and Medicine. A deep dive into the 6 elements of a happy and long life: whole food nutrition, enjoyable exercise, restorative sleep, social connection, stress management, and…