"If you don’t measure, you’re guessing." —Dr. Ron Hunninghake

This episode is a recording from our February 26, 2026, Lunch & Learn at Riordan Clinic in Wichita.

Energy that rises and crashes. Mood changes that feel difficult to explain. Sleep that looks fine on paper but never feels fully restorative. Many people are told their labs are normal, yet they still feel off.

This Lunch & Learn is designed for individuals who want a clearer understanding of how hormones and metabolism influence daily vitality.

In this session, Dr. Ron Hunninghake and Dr. Drew Rose explore how thyroid patterns, adrenal signaling, insulin dynamics, and nutrient status intersect with energy, mood, and long-term wellness. They discuss why a single lab marker may not always tell the full story and how a more comprehensive review can offer additional context when evaluating metabolic patterns.

They also review stress physiology, environmental influences, and the importance of tracking trends over time rather than relying on one isolated result. The emphasis throughout the discussion is on thoughtful measurement, collaborative learning, and individualized decision-making.

Learn more about Check Your Health | March 2–13, 2026

Available at Wichita and Overland Park locations

Episode Links and Resources

Explore integrative services at Riordan Clinic

Become a new co-learner

Watch more Real Health Podcast episodes

Episode Chapters

00:00 Welcome and event overview

01:18 Why hormones and metabolism matter

03:42 Looking beyond a single thyroid marker

06:15 Adrenal patterns and stress response

08:37 Insulin dynamics and energy regulation

10:54 Nutrient status and metabolic support

13:22 Environmental and lifestyle considerations

15:40 Measurement, monitoring, and next steps

Disclaimer

The information contained in this Lunch & Learn recording and the resources mentioned are for educational purposes only. They are not intended as and shall not be understood or construed as medical or health advice. The information shared is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. Information provided by presenters or the use of any products or services mentioned does not create a practitioner-patient relationship.

Topics we explore in this Lunch & Learn include:

hormone health education, thyroid evaluation discussion, adrenal physiology, stress response, insulin dynamics, blood sugar regulation, metabolic health, nutrient testing, laboratory measurement, sleep and energy patterns, integrative health education, Riordan Clinic, Check Your Health

"If you don’t measure, you’re guessing." —Dr. Ron Hunninghake

This episode is a recording from our February 26, 2026, Lunch & Learn at Riordan Clinic in Wichita.

Energy that rises and crashes. Mood changes that feel difficult to explain. Sleep that looks fine on paper but never feels fully restorative. Many people are told their labs are normal, yet they still feel off.

This Lunch & Learn is designed for individuals who want a clearer understanding of how hormones and metabolism influence daily vitality.

In this session, Dr. Ron Hunninghake and Dr. Drew Rose explore how thyroid patterns, adrenal signaling, insulin dynamics, and nutrient status intersect with energy, mood, and long-term wellness. They discuss why a single lab marker may not always tell the full story and how a more comprehensive review can offer additional context when evaluating metabolic patterns.

They also review stress physiology, environmental influences, and the importance of tracking trends over time rather than relying on one isolated result. The emphasis throughout the discussion is on thoughtful measurement, collaborative learning, and individualized decision-making.

Learn more about Check Your Health | March 2–13, 2026

Available at Wichita and Overland Park locations

Episode Links and Resources

Explore integrative services at Riordan Clinic

Become a new co-learner

Watch more Real Health Podcast episodes

Episode Chapters

00:00 Welcome and event overview

01:18 Why hormones and metabolism matter

03:42 Looking beyond a single thyroid marker

06:15 Adrenal patterns and stress response

08:37 Insulin dynamics and energy regulation

10:54 Nutrient status and metabolic support

13:22 Environmental and lifestyle considerations

15:40 Measurement, monitoring, and next steps

Disclaimer

The information contained in this Lunch & Learn recording and the resources mentioned are for educational purposes only. They are not intended as and shall not be understood or construed as medical or health advice. The information shared is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. Information provided by presenters or the use of any products or services mentioned does not create a practitioner-patient relationship.

Topics we explore in this Lunch & Learn include:

hormone health education, thyroid evaluation discussion, adrenal physiology, stress response, insulin dynamics, blood sugar regulation, metabolic health, nutrient testing, laboratory measurement, sleep and energy patterns, integrative health education, Riordan Clinic, Check Your Health

"Measure, measure, measure." —Dr. Ron Hunninghake

Fatigue that lingers. Brain fog that will not clear. Sleep that never feels restorative. Many people are told their labs are within normal ranges, yet they still do not feel like themselves.

This conversation is designed for anyone looking to better understand hormone health, thyroid health, and metabolic patterns that can shape daily energy.

In this episode of the Real Health Podcast, Dr. Ron Hunninghake and Dr. Drew Rose explore how hormones and metabolism influence energy patterns, mood, sleep, and day-to-day vitality. They discuss why thyroid evaluation can involve more than a single TSH result and how markers such as free T3 and reverse T3 may add helpful context when reviewing metabolic patterns.

Register for Lunch & Learn: How Hormones and Metabolism Shape Your Energy, Mood, and Wellness (attend in person or watch live on YouTube)  

Learn more about Check Your Health (March 2–13)

They also talk through adrenal function, stress physiology, insulin dynamics, and the ways nutrient status can intersect with hormone balance. Dr. Ron shares historical context around hormone therapy, including where past concerns originated, and explains how careful measurement and ongoing monitoring can support individualized decisions.

Upcoming events at the Riordan Clinic

Lunch & Learn  

Thursday, February 26, 2026  

Lunch: 11:30 AM | Lecture: 12:00 PM  

Register to attend in person or watch live on YouTube

Check Your Health  

March 2–13, 2026  

Available at Wichita and Overland Park locations  

Learn more about Check Your Health

Episode links and resources

Explore integrative services at Riordan Clinic

Become a new co-learner

Listen to more Real Health Podcast episodes

Episode chapters  

00:00 Welcome  

00:56 Why hormones and metabolism matter  

02:22 Looking beyond TSH  

03:59 Free T3 and reverse T3 explained  

07:14 Adrenal patterns and stress  

08:43 Insulin and nutrient interplay  

10:21 Sleep and hormone balance  

11:28 Environmental influences on hormone levels  

12:51 Questions about hormone therapy  

15:28 Measurement and long-term perspective + closing reflections

Disclaimer  

The information contained on the Real Health Podcast and the resources mentioned are for educational purposes only. They are not intended as and shall not be understood or construed as medical or health advice. The information contained on this podcast is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. Information provided by hosts and guests on the Real Health Podcast or the use of any products or services mentioned does not create a practitioner-patient relationship between you and any persons affiliated with this podcast.

Topics we explore in this episode include:  

thyroid evaluation, free T3, reverse T3, adrenal physiology, stress physiology, insulin dynamics, hormone balance discussion, nutrient status, laboratory evaluation, metabolic patterns

Update (February 25, 2026): Dr. Cynthia Aks is no longer with Riordan Clinic.

“Healing involves addressing the whole person — body, mind, and lived experience.” — Dr. Cynthia Aks

In this episode of the Real Health Podcast, Ron Hunninghake, MD, welcomes Cynthia Aks, DO, FACOS, ABIHM, to the Riordan Clinic team. A board-certified General Surgeon and Integrative Healthcare Practitioner, Dr. Aks brings more than three decades of experience in breast health, integrative medicine, and whole-person perspectives on care.

Dr. Aks shares her professional journey from osteopathic medical training and surgical leadership to her work integrating education, lifestyle considerations, movement, and complementary modalities into oncology and survivorship conversations. She reflects on her pioneering work in breast health innovation, her belief in collaborative, patient-centered relationships, and her interest in helping individuals stay informed and engaged throughout their health journey.

Highlights include:

→ Dr. Aks’ path from surgery to integrative healthcare perspectives

→ How osteopathic philosophy informs her approach to patient care

→ Insights from decades specializing in breast disease and oncology settings

→ The role of education, lifestyle considerations, and complementary modalities in survivorship discussions

→ How ongoing connection and accountability factor into long-term health engagement

About Cynthia Aks, DO, FACOS, ABIHM

Dr. Cynthia Aks is a board-certified General Surgeon and Integrative Healthcare Practitioner at Riordan Clinic. She has specialized in breast health since 1997 and is recognized for her role in breast health innovation, including being the first surgeon in Oregon to perform cryoablation for breast cancer. Her background includes leadership of comprehensive breast centers, advanced training in integrative and complementary disciplines, and extensive experience in oncology-focused education and survivorship-oriented care conversations.

👉 Learn more about Dr. Cynthia Aks or explore care at Riordan Clinic

Read the full Riordan Clinic Welcomes Dr. Cynthia Aks article

Episode Links & Resources

Watch the episode on YouTube

Explore integrative services at Riordan Clinic

Become a new co-learner

Listen to more episodes

Episode Chapters

00:00 Welcome + introducing Dr. Cynthia Aks

01:08 Dr. Aks’ medical background and osteopathic training

03:54 Specializing in breast health and integrative medicine

06:22 Leadership in comprehensive breast centers

08:49 Innovation in breast health and cryoablation

11:47 Integrative and complementary perspectives on care

15:00 Survivorship education and long-term engagement

18:42 Holistic philosophy and whole-person considerations

Disclaimer

The information contained on the Real Health Podcast and the resources mentioned are for educational purposes only. They are not intended as and shall not be understood or construed as medical or health advice. The information contained on this podcast is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. Information provided by hosts and guests on the Real Health Podcast or the use of any products or services mentioned does not create a practitioner-patient relationship between you and any persons affiliated with this podcast.

Topics we explore in this episode include:

osteopathic medicine, integrative healthcare, breast health, survivorship education, oncology care perspectives, patient-centered care, complementary modalities, lifestyle considerations, Riordan Clinic providers, doctor-patient relationship, preventive health

“It’s easy to think of melatonin as only a sleep supplement, but its story is much bigger.” —Dr. Ron Hunninghake

Melatonin has been in the spotlight recently after a press release raised concerns about long-term use. In this episode of the Real Health Podcast, Dr. Ron Hunninghake and Dr. Stacy Dunn bring clarity to the conversation by offering a perspective grounded in research, long-standing clinical experience, and thoughtful evaluation.

Drawing on decades of integrative practice, Dr. Ron and Dr. Dunn walk through what the recent study did and didn’t demonstrate, and outline how clinicians approach natural compounds in individualized care. They discuss the broader history of melatonin research, its well-known antioxidant activity, and the practical considerations that guide its use in an oncology setting. Their discussion highlights how dosage, product quality, clinical context, and patient history shape responsible decision-making.

Their conversation reflects Riordan Clinic’s long-held commitment to education and co-learning to help individuals make sense of complex information, understand the origins of health questions, and feel equipped to move forward with clarity.

About Dr. Stacy Dunn

Dr. Stacy Dunn, ND, LAc, FABNO, FABORM, is a member of the integrative oncology team at Riordan Clinic and practices at the Overland Park, Kansas, clinic location. She brings more than 25 years of experience in integrative cancer care, women’s health, and acupuncture. Her work centers on collaboration, education, and helping individuals navigate complex health concerns with steadiness and informed guidance. 📄 Learn more about Dr. Dunn

About Dr. Ron Hunninghake

Dr. Ron Hunninghake is the Chief Medical Officer at Riordan Clinic and has shaped the organization’s educational and clinical direction since 1989. Over the course of his career, he has become a nationally recognized voice in nutrition-focused, laboratory-informed approaches to health. Dr. Ron has delivered hundreds of lectures on foundational wellness, metabolic patterns, and the deeper drivers of human functioning, earning a reputation for making complex ideas accessible and meaningful. His long-standing dedication to inquiry, clarity, and practical wisdom continues to influence practitioners and co-learners seeking a more thoughtful path to better health. 📄 Learn more about Dr. Ron

Episode Links and Resources

Explore integrative services at Riordan Clinic

Become a Riordan Clinic co-learner

Listen to more episodes

Episode Chapters

00:00 Welcome

00:37 Why melatonin is in the news

02:05 Understanding what the recent study showed

04:22 How long-standing melatonin research informs perspective

06:58 Antioxidant activity and clinical context

09:45 Dosage, quality, and individual considerations

12:05 How clinicians evaluate natural compounds

15:00 Co-learning and clear communication in oncology care

17:40 Lifestyle patterns that support overall wellbeing

20:12 Closing reflections

Disclaimer

The information contained on the Real Health Podcast and the resources mentioned are for educational purposes only. They are not intended as and shall not be understood or construed as medical or health advice. The information contained on this podcast is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. Information provided by hosts and guests on the Real Health Podcast or the use of any products or services mentioned does not create a practitioner-patient relationship between you and any persons affiliated with this podcast.

Topics covered in this episode

melatonin research, integrative oncology discussion, antioxidant activity, clinician perspective, supportive care considerations, oxidative stress, individualized evaluation, co-learning, health education, Riordan Clinic

“Every case represents a new pathway to better health.” —Dr. Ron Hunninghake

This episode of the Real Health Podcast looks ahead to the future of integrative care at Riordan Clinic. Dr. Drew Rose and Dr. Ron Hunninghake explore how the clinic is building on 50 years of learning, research, and co-learning to guide the next era of patient support.

Dr. Ron reflects on the turning points he has witnessed over his 34 years at the clinic, including early RECNAC research, the evolution of integrative oncology, and the clinic’s long-standing emphasis on laboratory investigation to help individuals understand their own health story. They highlight the importance of curiosity, education, metabolic health awareness, support for chronic illness, and the intentionality that have shaped Riordan Clinic from the beginning.

They also discuss the emergence of a new generation of providers and how this team will carry the clinic’s vision forward. Their conversation centers on what sustainable, whole-person care can look like in the future and how Riordan Clinic continues to evolve while remaining grounded in its core principles.

Ron Hunninghake, MD

Dr. Ron Hunninghake is the Chief Medical Officer of Riordan Clinic and has been part of the organization since 1989. Throughout his career, he has championed a patient-centered approach rooted in nutritional science, biochemical individuality, and thoughtful inquiry. Dr. Hunninghake has lectured nationally and internationally on integrative health, the importance of laboratory testing, and the role of education in long-term wellness. His work reflects Riordan Clinic’s commitment to co-learning and whole-person care. Learn more about Dr. Ron

Drew Rose, DO

Dr. Drew Rose is a physician at Riordan Clinic who brings a background in internal medicine and Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM) to his work with co-learners. His approach integrates structural assessment, lifestyle guidance, and preventive thinking to support individualized care. Dr. Drew is committed to helping individuals understand their health patterns, build resilience, and participate actively in their healing journey. His work reflects the clinic’s emphasis on partnership, education, and whole-person wellness. Learn more about Dr. Drew

Episode Links and Resources

Explore integrative health services at Riordan Clinic

Begin your journey as a new co-learner

Listen to more episodes of the Real Health Podcast

Episode Chapters

00:00 Welcome

00:57 Introducing the conversation

02:05 Highlights from 34 years at Riordan Clinic

03:02 Early RECNAC research and growing visibility

05:10 How lab testing supports individualized care

08:44 The evolution of integrative oncology

10:30 The next generation of Riordan Clinic providers

12:23 The importance of co-learning and connection

15:35 Emerging needs in metabolic and chronic illness support

17:24 Understanding the long-term impact of prolonged illness

19:15 Imagining the next 50 years of integrative health

21:56 The role of preventive and whole-person perspectives

24:04 Closing reflections

Disclaimer

The information contained on the Real Health Podcast and the resources mentioned are for educational purposes only. They are not intended as and shall not be understood or construed as medical or health advice. The information contained on this podcast is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. Information provided by hosts and guests on the Real Health Podcast or the use of any products or services mentioned does not create a practitioner-patient relationship between you and any persons affiliated with this podcast.

Topics covered in this episode:

integrative health, co-learning, Riordan Clinic future, RECNAC research, integrative oncology, metabolic health, chronic illness, long COVID, laboratory investigation, preventive care, patient partnership, Kansas integrative medicine, Wichita health community, whole-person perspectives, root-cause inquiry, provider education

“You’ve got to have a really good imagination to see the bigger picture.” —Dr. Ron Hunninghake

In this episode of the Real Health Podcast, Dr. Ron Hunninghake and Dr. Michelle Niesley discuss how medical thinking has shifted over the decades and how those shifts have shaped the Riordan Clinic. They revisit the first, second, and third “medical revolutions,” what each one focused on, and how the clinic continues to blend scientific understanding with whole-person context.

They share stories from the early years with Dr. Hugh Riordan and Mrs. Olive Garvey, and how their partnership set the tone for curiosity, education, and co-learning. Dr. Ron and Dr. Michelle also reflect on the next phase of the clinic’s work and what they hope to see as a new generation of providers steps forward.

Throughout the conversation, they reflect on why context matters, why listening is essential, and how imagination helps widen our view of health, people, and the world around us.

Ron Hunninghake, MD

Dr. Ron Hunninghake is the Chief Medical Officer of Riordan Clinic and has been with the clinic for more than 35 years. He earned his medical degree from the University of Kansas School of Medicine and has lectured internationally on nutrition, whole-person perspectives, and the history of orthomolecular thinking. His work centers on patient education and co-learning.

Michelle Niesley, ND, MS, FABNO

Dr. Michelle Niesley is the Chief Executive Officer of Riordan Clinic. She earned her Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine from Bastyr University and a Master of Science from Dartmouth College, with a focus on biostatistics and epidemiology. She brings more than two decades of experience in integrative medicine, clinical leadership, and evidence-informed patient care.

Episode Links & Resources

Watch the episode on YouTube

Learn more about Riordan Clinic

Become a new patient at Riordan Clinic

Listen to more episodes of the Real Health Podcast

Episode Chapters

00:00 Welcome

01:10 How medical thinking has shifted

03:42 Whole-person perspectives

05:25 Left brain, right brain, and seeing the whole picture

08:28 Imagination and the wider view

09:42 The three generations of Riordan Clinic

12:48 Dr. Ron’s reflections on his years at the clinic

14:38 Looking ahead

15:59 Why co-learning remains important

Disclaimer

The information contained on the Real Health Podcast and the resources mentioned are for educational purposes only. They are not intended as and shall not be understood or construed as medical or health advice. The information contained on this podcast is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. Information provided by hosts and guests on the Real Health Podcast or the use of any products or services mentioned does not create a practitioner-patient relationship between you and any persons affiliated with this podcast.

Topics covered in this episode:

integrative health, medical history, whole-person perspectives, co-learning, Riordan Clinic history, Dr. Hugh Riordan, Olive Garvey, sustained illness, patient context, provider communication, health education, Kansas health, Wichita community

“OMM helps us look beyond the place where pain shows up and understand what may be contributing to it.” —Dr. Drew Rose

In this episode of the Real Health Podcast, Ron Hunninghake, MD, sits down with Drew Rose, DO, to explore how Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM) offers a hands-on way of understanding the body’s structure and movement patterns. Dr. Drew explains how structure and function are interconnected, why touch can offer insight that standard testing may not provide, and how OMM can be used as part of an individualized approach for people navigating chronic pain, headaches, fatigue, inflammatory conditions, COPD, fibromyalgia, and other complex concerns.

He also shares lessons from his years practicing hospital and ICU medicine, including why one-size-fits-all care often falls short—and how osteopathic principles offer a deeper perspective on what the body may be signaling.

Highlights include:

→ What OMM is and how it differs from chiropractic care

→ Why osteopathic medicine focuses on structure and function

→ How foot and gait mechanics can influence low back pain

→ What NASA research revealed about cranial motion

→ How hands-on assessment can offer a different perspective than imaging alone

→ Using OMM within individualized care for chronic and complex concerns

→ The role of lymphatic flow, fascia, and subtle motion

→ How OMM complements the Riordan Clinic approach to whole-person care

About Drew Rose, DO

Drew Rose, DO, is an internal medicine physician with advanced training in Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine. Before joining Riordan Clinic, he spent six years practicing hospital and ICU medicine in Kansas. He brings a whole-person, hands-on approach to patient care, integrating structural evaluation, osteopathic principles, and nutritional insights to support alignment, mobility, and overall well-being. Learn more about Dr. Drew or schedule a new patient appointment.

Episode Links & Resources

Learn more about the Riordan Clinic

Listen to more episodes of the Real Health Podcast

Episode Chapters

00:00 Welcome + introducing OMM

01:10 MD vs DO vs chiropractic training

02:46 Structure, function, and whole-body evaluation

04:18 Low back pain and the kinetic chain

06:01 Foot mechanics and alignment

07:34 Cranial motion, NASA research, and headaches

10:14 OMM and migraines

12:19 Foundational osteopathic principles

14:11 OMM in chronic and complex experience

17:22 Nervous system sensitization and subtle motion

20:05 Individualized care in hospital medicine

22:12 How OMM complements whole-person care

Disclaimer

The information contained on the Real Health Podcast and the resources mentioned are for educational purposes only. They are not intended as and shall not be understood or construed as medical or health advice. The information contained on this podcast is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. Information provided by hosts and guests on the Real Health Podcast or the use of any products or services mentioned does not create a practitioner-patient relationship between you and any persons affiliated with this podcast.

Topics we explore in this episode:

osteopathic medicine, OMM, osteopathic manipulative medicine, cranial motion, cranial rhythmic impulse, chronic pain, migraines, headaches, low back pain, gait mechanics, kinetic chain, lymphatic flow, fascia, COPD, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, integrative medicine, functional medicine, hands-on medicine, individualized care, whole-person health, Riordan Clinic providers, structural alignment, root-cause perspective

“When you bring care back to patients and providers, everyone heals faster.” —Shaun Noorian

In this episode of the Real Health Podcast, Dr. Ron Hunninghake is joined by Shaun Noorian, CEO and founder of Empower Pharmacy, for a conversation about how innovation and integrity are transforming the future of medicine.

Shaun shares how a personal health journey led him to reimagine what pharmacy could be — one built around compassion, access, and individualized care. He and Dr. Ron explore how integrative medicine and personalized compounding can support patient well-being and advance the field of preventive pharmacology.

Part of the Cancer Care Reimagined Speaker Series, leading up to Riordan Clinic’s 25th International Conference on Human Functioning: Cancer Care Reimagined, held in early November.

Highlights include:

→ How Shaun Noorian's own healing journey inspired Empower Pharmacy

→ Why individualized compounding plays a vital role in patient care

→ The evolving role of pharmacy in integrative and functional medicine

→ How collaboration between providers and pharmacists improves patient care

→ What the future of personalized and preventive medicine looks like

About Shaun Noorian

Shaun Noorian is the CEO and founder of Empower Pharmacy, the largest compounding pharmacy and 503B outsourcing facility in the United States. With a background in engineering and a mission to make high-quality, affordable, and personalized medications accessible to all, Shaun has built Empower into a national leader serving millions of patients.

Empower Pharmacy operates with a simple but powerful belief: behind every order is a person in need. This philosophy drives their commitment to compassion, innovation, and excellence in every aspect of care.

Sponsor

This series is made possible by Empower Pharmacy, Platinum Sponsor of the Cancer Care Reimagined Conference. Empower is a national leader in compounding and 503B outsourcing, serving providers and patients in all 50 states with safe, affordable, personalized medications. Guided by the belief that behind every order is a person in need, they bring compassion and innovation to everything they do. Learn more at empowerpharmacy.com.

Episode Links & Resources

Watch this episode on YouTube

Gain Access to the Cancer Care Reimagined Conference

Learn more about Empower Pharmacy

Explore the Riordan Clinic

Listen to more episodes of the Real Health Podcast

Episode Chapters

00:00 Welcome + Speaker Series intro

01:24 Meet Shaun Noorian, founder of Empower Pharmacy

02:28 From patient to pharmacist to pioneer

05:05 The power of personalized medicine

07:40 Integrative therapies in oncology and chronic illness

10:50 Vitamin C and nutrient therapy in cancer care

13:40 Why individualized treatment improves outcomes

16:25 The role of compounding in preventive pharmacology

19:10 Partnering with providers for better patient results

21:00 How Empower Pharmacy supports integrative medicine

23:30 Looking ahead: innovation, prevention, and collaboration

Topics we explore in this episode include:

compounding pharmacy, integrative medicine, functional medicine, individualized care, preventive pharmacology, IV nutrition therapy, vitamin C research, cancer care innovation, metabolic health, patient empowerment, provider partnerships, and the evolution of personalized medicine

Disclaimer

The information contained on the Real Health Podcast and the resources mentioned are for educational purposes only. They are not intended as and shall not be understood or construed as medical or health advice. The information contained on this podcast is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. Information provided by hosts and guests on the Real Health Podcast or the use of any products or services mentioned does not create a practitioner-patient relationship between you and any persons affiliated with this podcast.

“When you understand the why behind illness, that’s when healing truly begins.” —Dr. Michelle Niesley

In this episode of the Real Health Podcast, Dr. Ron Hunninghake is joined by Michelle Niesley, ND, MS, FABNO—Chief Executive Officer of Riordan Clinic, clinical research, and naturopathic doctor specializing in integrative oncology—to explore how science, compassion, and curiosity come together in modern medicine.

Dr. Niesley shares her path from research to leadership, the Clinic’s 50-year legacy of innovation, and the importance of bridging conventional and integrative care. From terrain-based medicine to whole-brain thinking, this conversation highlights the next chapter of healing at Riordan Clinic.

👉 Part of the Cancer Care Reimagined Speaker Series, leading up to Riordan Clinic’s 25th International Conference on Human Functioning: Cancer Care Reimagined this November.

Highlights include:

→ How Dr. Niesley’s journey from research to leadership is shaping Riordan Clinic’s future

→ Why understanding the “why” behind illness transforms care

→ The “weed and soil” model of terrain-based oncology

→ What whole-brain medicine means for modern healthcare

→ How communication and connection empower patients as co-learners

About Dr. Michelle Niesley

Dr. Michelle Niesley, ND, MS, FABNO is the Chief Executive Officer of Riordan Clinic. She earned her Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine from Bastyr University and a Master’s in Evaluative Clinical Sciences from Dartmouth College, focusing on biostatistics and epidemiology.

With more than 20 years of experience in integrative medicine, clinical research, and leadership, Dr. Niesley bridges evidence-based science with a whole-person approach to care. Her work continues to advance Riordan Clinic’s mission to combine research, education, and compassionate medicine that addresses the root causes of illness and fosters real healing.

Sponsor

This series is made possible by Empower Pharmacy, Platinum Sponsor of the Cancer Care Reimagined Conference. Empower is a national leader in compounding and 503B outsourcing, serving providers and patients in all 50 states with safe, affordable, personalized medications. Guided by the belief that behind every order is a person in need, they bring compassion and innovation to everything they do. Learn more at empowerpharmacy.com.

Episode Links & Resources

Watch this episode on YouTube

Register for the Cancer Care Reimagined Conference

Learn more about Empower Pharmacy

Explore the Riordan Clinic

Listen to more episodes of the Real Health Podcast

Episode Chapters

00:00 Welcome + Speaker Series intro

01:44 Meet Dr. Michelle Niesley

02:28 From naturopathic oncology to CEO

04:10 Finding purpose through individualized medicine

05:57 The “weed and soil” analogy of terrain-based care

07:19 Why she was drawn to Riordan Clinic

09:09 The story behind the 25th Conference

10:36 Whole-brain medicine and bridging both sides of care

13:19 Integrative oncology in mainstream medicine

15:51 Empowering patients as co-learners

18:05 Building community + innovation between visits

19:19 Conference invitation + closing reflections

Topics we explore in this episode include:

integrative oncology, naturopathic doctors who specialize in integrative oncology, terrain-based care, functional medicine, whole-brain medicine, personalized healing, biostatistics and research, individualized treatment, patient empowerment, the future of cancer care, Riordan Clinic leadership, education and research in medicine, and bridging conventional and integrative approaches

Disclaimer

The information contained on the Real Health Podcast and the resources mentioned are for educational purposes only. They are not intended as and shall not be understood or construed as medical or health advice. The information contained on this podcast is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. Information provided by hosts and guests on the Real Health Podcast or the use of any products or services mentioned does not create a practitioner-patient relationship between you and any persons affiliated with this podcast.