In this episode, Dr. Dean Mitchell welcomes back Dr. Paul Offit, the Maurice Hilleman Professor of Vaccinology at the University of Pennsylvania's Perelman School of Medicine, to discuss the current state of vaccine misinformation and the importance of understanding how vaccines work. 

In the episode, listeners will take a journey through the history of vaccines, the great minds whose scientific discoveries shaped the fabric of our society, and Dr. Mitchell and Dr. Dean's own experience with vaccines in their respective careers. The conversation then turns to cutting edge dialogue, with Dr. Offit expressing his own concerns with vaccines (particularly their additives) as well as the tumultuous debate doctors find themselves in today.

With his characteristic wit, expertise, and ability to render the complex into the simple, Dr. Offit sheds light on the science behind vaccines and offers a reassuring message for those who may be skeptical. Additionally, listeners will find information on what vaccines they should look into for their selves and their families. Join us for a thought-provoking conversation that will leave you better equipped to make informed decisions about your health. Learn more about the importance of vaccination, the science behind how vaccines work, and the myths and misconceptions that have been perpetuated about vaccines by listening in!

Tune in for more episodes every Tuesday!

In this episode of The Smartest Doctor in the Room, join Dr. Dean Mitchell as he dives into the critical yet often underestimated world of teenage sleep. Our guest, Professor Mary Carskadon, (a leading researcher in adolescent sleep health at Brown University) sheds light on the significant impacts of sleep deprivation in teenagers. This simple, yet critical component of our daily routines can lead to increased risks of depression, addiction, and even driving accidents, particularly in our youth. 

Professor Carskadon explains the biological changes occurring in the teenage brain and how these affect their sleep patterns and decision-making. Learn about the common obstacles parents and schools face regarding early school start times, and why a shift in schedules could benefit our teens immensely, as well as the risks of melatonin. With practical advice for parents and insights into the latest research, this episode aims to illuminate just how vital sleep is for our youth’s overall health and success. Tune in for a conversation that could change the way you think about sleep and its importance in a teenager’s life.

Don't miss this essential discussion that combines science and real-world application, and equip yourself with knowledge to support the teens in your life!

In this timely episode of The Smartest Doctor in the Room, Dr. Dean Mitchell interviews Dr. Catharina Giudice, an emergency room physician and fellow at the Center for Climate, Health, and Global Environment at Harvard's T.H. Chan School of Public Health. As wildfires ravage cities like Los Angeles and floods sweep through the Southeastern U.S., these 2 doctors (and concerned citizens) bring awareness to the wide-reaching impacts of climate change.

Dr. Giudice shares her insights on the alarming connection between climate-related disasters and our well-being. From the respiratory dangers posed by fine particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), to the rising mental health crisis sparked by devastating loss and displacement, this episode uncovers the myriad ways climate change manifests within and without.
Dr. Mitchell and Dr. Giudice grapple with tough questions, including how we can respond to climate change denial, the vulnerability of children and pregnant women, and the importance of proactive measures for community resilience.

From health care providers to everyday citizens, everyone has a role to play in addressing the climate crisis. The time to act is now—join us in the fight for a healthier planet!

Interested in Americares' Climate Resilience for Frontline Clinics Toolkit? Visit this website: https://www.americares.org/what-we-do/community-health/climate-resilient-health-clinics/#toolkit

Don't forget to subscribe for more episodes that explore critical issues shaping our world today!

In light of the recent challenges faced by Los Angeles, we begin with a heartfelt acknowledgment of the efforts and resilience of its residents and a thanks to Dr. Pimentel for taking the time to join us despite it all.

In the first episode of the New Year, host Dr. Dean Mitchell welcomes back the esteemed Dr. Mark Pimentel, a leading gastroenterologist from UCLA, to explore the critical role of the gut microbiome in overall health. As we dive into this fascinating discussion, we’ll uncover why taking care of your gut is essential—not just for digestion but also for immune function and even aging.

We start by addressing popular misconceptions about "good" and "bad" bacteria. Dr. Pimentel explains the importance of diversity in the microbiome and its significant impact on our overall health.

Throughout the episode, we tackle pressing questions: Can the microbiome truly predict our health and longevity? How do lifestyle factors, including diet and stress, influence gut health? And what role do emerging therapies, such as probiotics and fecal transplants, play in maintaining a healthy microbiome?

Listeners seeking a deeper understanding of their gut health will leave this episode armed with valuable insights and practical takeaways. Join us for this engaging conversation that not only highlights groundbreaking research but also sheds light on how we can all take proactive steps toward better health.

Be sure to subscribe, share, and leave a review to support our growing community!

In this enlightening episode of the Smarter Dr. in the Room podcast, host Dr. Dean Mitchell sits down with thoracic surgeon Dr. Matthew Inra from the Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Northwell Hospital. Together, they unravel the often misunderstood symptom of shortness of breath—a common experience that can signal a variety of underlying issues beyond just lung problems.

Shortness of breath is a common symptom, but its causes can be unexpected. Join Dr. Dean Mitchell as he talks with Dr. Matthew Inra, a renowned thoracic surgeon, about uncovering hidden reasons behind breathing difficulties. From rare conditions like tracheobronchomalacia to advances in robotic surgery and lung cancer treatments, this episode dives into fascinating medical cases and cutting-edge technologies shaping thoracic surgery. 

Whether you’re curious about uncommon diagnoses or the future of surgical innovations, this discussion offers insights for both medical professionals and health enthusiasts. Don't miss the story that highlights why differential diagnosis is key to saving lives.

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) hides in plain sight, leaving countless patients struggling with chronic pain and dislocations while searching for answers. In this captivating episode, Dr. Dean Mitchell interviews Dr. Bernadette Riley, a leading expert in EDS, to shine a light on this complex and often misunderstood condition. Learn about its mysterious link to mast cell activation, the challenges of hypermobility, and the innovative treatments transforming lives. Discover how Dr. Riley's pioneering approach at the NYIT EDS Hypermobility Center blends personalized care with hope for future breakthroughs, including biomarkers and specialized therapies. This is more than a podcast—it’s a lifeline for patients and an eye-opener for listeners eager to understand a condition that changes everything.

Why does your stomach hurt after meals? Could it be something serious, or is it just stress? In this enlightening episode of The Smartest Doctor in the Room, Dr. Dean Mitchell sits down with Dr. Doug Adler, a renowned gastroenterologist and expert in complex GI cases, to uncover the mysteries of chronic abdominal pain. They discuss common yet misdiagnosed conditions, cutting-edge diagnostic techniques, and why second opinions could save lives. Whether you're curious about pancreatic health, liver detox myths, or the latest advancements in GI treatments, this episode is packed with vital insights for anyone seeking answers about their digestive health.

Join us for an enlightening episode of "The Smartest Doctor in the Room" as we delve into the perplexing world of chronic sinusitis with our special guest, Dr. Aria Jafari, an assistant professor of Otolaryngology at the University of Washington School of Medicine. Chronic sinusitis is one of the most common chronic medical conditions, yet remains shrouded in mystery, often baffling even specialists.


In this episode, Dr. Jafari and host Dr. Dean Mitchell explore the nuanced differences between acute and chronic sinusitis, revealing how these conditions affect individuals' quality of life on multiple levels. More intriguingly, they discuss groundbreaking research suggesting that chronic sinusitis may have profound effects on cognitive function, leading to issues such as "brain fog" and decreased processing speed.
 

From the intricacies of nasal anatomy to the far-reaching implications of inflammation on the brain, this episode emphasizes the importance of understanding the full spectrum of chronic sinusitis symptoms. We'll also cover practical management strategies, highlight the role of antibiotics, and discuss how to approach treatment plans that consider both sinus and cognitive health.


Whether you're a healthcare professional or someone affected by sinus issues, this episode will provide valuable insights into a condition often overlooked in its complexity. Tune in to learn how to navigate chronic sinusitis effectively and gain a deeper understanding of its impacts—beyond just the physical symptoms.

Dive into the intense world of NYC's emergency response with veteran paramedic Anthony Almogero, author of Riding the Lightning. From life-or-death calls and grueling realities of COVID-19 to the overlooked struggles and resilience of EMS workers, Anthony shares raw stories that highlight both the courage and challenges faced by paramedics. Discover what truly happens behind the sirens and the sacrifices that keep our communities safe. An essential listen for anyone who wants an insider look into the frontline of emergency care and the unsung heroes who provide it.

In this episode of The Smartest Doctor in the Room, host Dr. Dean Mitchell explores the world of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) with the renowned Dr. Saoud Sadiq, director of the Tisch Multiple Sclerosis Research Center in Manhattan. MS is a diagnosis that can strike fear, particularly in young women in their 20s and 30s. Together, Dr. Mitchell and Dr. Sadiq delve into the evolution of MS treatments, from the limited options of the past to the groundbreaking therapies available today.

Dr. Sadiq shares his inspiring journey from Kenya to becoming a leader in MS research and unpacks the complexities of MS, including its pathology, symptoms, and the interplay between immune cells. They discuss whether MS is hereditary, what triggers its onset, the role of the microbiome, and how state-of-the-art diagnostic tools have revolutionized patient care.

This episode provides a wealth of knowledge and hope for anyone affected by MS or interested in understanding it better.

Key Takeaways:

• Common symptoms and early signs of MS.
• The difference between relapsing-remitting and primary progressive MS.
• Current and emerging MS treatments, including breakthroughs in stem cell therapy.
• The role of the immune system and lifestyle factors in managing MS.
• How patient-doctor relationships can impact long-term care.

Don’t miss this enlightening discussion that bridges medical complexity with the human experience. Whether you’re seeking answers, inspiration, or the latest insights, this episode delivers it all. Tune in now!