This Healthy Life

MEET THE GUEST

Nicole Cain, ND, MA, is a pioneer in integrative approaches for mental and emotional wellness. With a degree in clinical psychology, training in EMDR, and a license as a Naturopathic Physician in the state of Arizona, her approach to mental health is multidisciplinary: medical, psychological, and holistic.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT

• Dr. Nicole's personal journey with anxiety and why she challenges the idea that anxiety is something we simply have to manage or live with forever.
• The clinical and biological differences between fear, anxiety, and panic, and how panic represents a crisis state of the nervous system rather than a mental failure.
• How the nervous system responds to perceived danger through fight, flight, freeze, flop, fawn, and fracture, and why symptoms look different from person to person.
• Why cognitive strategies alone often fail during anxiety and panic, and why regulation must begin in the body rather than the mind.
• Practical nervous system regulation tools, including temperature, touch, scent, taste, and vagus nerve activation, to interrupt panic in real time.
• The nine types of anxiety and how identifying the specific pattern driving symptoms allows for more precise and effective treatment.
• The gut brain oral microbiome axis and how gut health, oral health, and microbiome imbalance can directly influence anxiety and panic.
• How infections, mold exposure, toxins, hormones, histamine, and immune activation can drive anxiety that is often misdiagnosed as purely psychological.
• Dr. Nicole's four step approach to healing anxiety, including embodiment, mindful awareness, listening to early body signals, and rebuilding a sense of power and safety.
• How root cause medicine combined with nervous system resilience creates lasting healing rather than symptom suppression.

EPISODE RESOURCES 

HeartMath

HRV tools for nervous system regulation and stress resilience.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/heartmath

Cann

CBD beverages for relaxation and stress support.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/cann

Swanwick

Blue light blocking glasses for sleep support. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 15% OFF.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/swanwick

Oura Ring

Wearable that tracks sleep and recovery.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/ouraring

True Dark

Light blocking tools for circadian and sleep support. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 10% OFF.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/truedark

CONNECT WITH THE GUEST

Website: 

http://www.drnicolecain.com/

Instagram: 

https://www.instagram.com/drnicolecain/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/DrNicoleCain/

TikTok:

https://www.tiktok.com/@drnicolecain

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@DrNicoleCainNDMA

KEYWORDS

anxiety, panic attacks, nervous system regulation, polyvagal theory, vagus nerve, trauma informed care, chronic anxiety, panic disorder, histamine intolerance, MCAS, gut brain axis, microbiome, stress response, fight or flight, limbic system, somatic healing, personalized medicine

MEET THE GUEST

Dr. Melanie Stein is a naturopathic physician in Portland specializing in Cell Membrane Therapy for complex chronic illness, including Lyme, mold illness, MCAS, POTS, and chronic fatigue. She is the author of Breaking Through Chronic Illness and founder of Restorative Health Clinic, where she provides personalized, root cause care.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT

• Dr. Melanie’s recovery from Lyme disease and why cell membrane therapy became central to healing complex chronic illness.
• How damaged cell membranes drive conditions like Lyme, mold illness, MCAS, POTS, chronic fatigue, and autoimmunity.
• The science of membrane repair, including phospholipids and oxidative stress, and why membrane integrity is foundational for recovery.
• The cell danger response and why inflammation can persist even after infections are treated.
• The link between mitochondrial dysfunction, fatigue, and why mitochondria cannot recover until membranes are restored.
• Nervous system and limbic dysregulation in chronic illness and the importance of signaling safety to the body.
• Environmental toxins, neurological symptoms, and lifestyle strategies that support membrane repair and long term resilience.

EPISODE RESOURCES 

BodyBio

Supports cell membranes and mitochondria. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 15% OFF.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/BodyBio

TheraBodyTools for circulation and nervous system support.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/therabody

HigherDOSE

Infrared sauna blankets for detox support.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/higherdose

Thorne

Mitochondrial and metabolic supplements.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/thorne

Life Cykel

Mushroom extracts for cellular support. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 10% OFF.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/lifecykel

BiOptimizers

Formulas for mitochondrial energy. Use code THETRAILTOHEALTH for 10% OFF.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/bioptimizers 

CONNECT WITH THE GUEST

Website:

http://www.restorativehealthclinic.com/

Instagram: 

https://www.instagram.com/drmelaniestein/ https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealthclinic/

Facebook:

http://www.facebook.com/restorativehealthclinic

TikTok: 

https://www.tiktok.com/@restorativehealthclinic0

KEYWORDS

cell membrane therapy, cell danger response, chronic illness, Lyme disease, mold illness, MCAS, POTS, mitochondrial dysfunction, chronic fatigue, neuroinflammation, nervous system regulation, oxidative stress, phospholipids, longevity

MEET THE GUEST

Dr. Todd Maderis is the Founder and Medical Director of Marin Natural Medicine Clinic in the San Francisco Bay Area. He specializes in complex chronic illness, Lyme disease, and chronic infections. His approach focuses on identifying root causes, including infections and toxins, to create personalized treatment strategies. With over a decade of experience, Dr. Todd emphasizes precision testing and individualized care.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT

• Dr. Todd’s approach to complex chronic illness and why infections and toxins are often at the root of persistent symptoms.
• What SOT (Supportive Oligonucleotide Therapy) is and how it works as a gene silencing therapy.
• How SOT targets Lyme, Bartonella, Babesia, and chronic viruses like Epstein Barr, CMV, and HHV 6.
• Why accurate testing is essential and how SOT is custom made from a patient’s blood.
• What treatment looks like, including IV administration, timelines, and what patients typically experience.
• How SOT differs from antibiotics and herbal antimicrobials, including gut impact and herx reactions.
• The role of mast cell activation in chronic infections and how lowering infectious burden can calm immune overactivation.
• The link between infections, mold, heavy metals, mitochondrial dysfunction, and chronic fatigue.
• How long COVID can unmask underlying infections.
• How infections are prioritized and sequenced in personalized treatment plans.
• Real patient outcomes and who is a good candidate for SOT.

EPISODE RESOURCES

BodyBioFoundational supplements that support cellular membranes, mitochondrial function, and immune balance. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 15% OFF.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/BodyBio

Quicksilver ScientificAdvanced detox and liposomal immune support formulas designed to reduce toxic burden and support mitochondrial resilience. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 15% OFF.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/QuicksilverScientific

Integrative PeptidesResearch backed peptide formulas designed to support immune modulation and cellular repair. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 10% OFF.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/IntegrativePeptides

WonderfeelLongevity focused supplements that support mitochondrial health and cellular aging.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/wonderfeel

Function HealthComprehensive lab testing that provides deep insights into inflammation, toxins, hormones, and root drivers of chronic illness. Use code ESCHLICK10 to get started.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/FunctionHealth

PulsettoVagus nerve stimulation device designed to support nervous system regulation and stress resilience.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Pulsetto

CONNECT WITH THE GUEST

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/drtoddmaderis/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/drtoddmaderis/

Website:

https://drtoddmaderis.com/

Youtube:

https://www.youtube.com/@tmndlac

KEYWORDSSOT therapy, chronic infections, Lyme disease, tick borne illness, chronic viral infections, Epstein Barr virus, immune dysregulation, mast cell activation, mold illness, environmental toxicity, mitochondrial dysfunction, chronic fatigue, long COVID, personalized medicine

MEET THE GUEST

Dr. Tania Dempsey is a leading expert in Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) and complex chronic illness. A board-certified integrative physician, she focuses on uncovering biochemical, immune, and environmental drivers of disease. She is the founder of the AIM Center for Personalized Medicine in New York and works with patients worldwide.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT

• Dr. Tania's journey from conventional internal medicine to becoming a leading expert in mast cell activation syndrome and complex chronic illness.
• Why MCAS has become increasingly common, the role of genetics, infections, toxins, and epigenetics, and how long COVID is reshaping our understanding of mast cell disorders.
• The interconnected nature of chronic symptoms and why treating patients in seven minute visits never works for complex illness.
• How GLP 1 receptor agonists are emerging as powerful tools for stabilizing mast cells, reducing inflammation, and improving symptoms far beyond weight loss.
• Findings from her case series showing significant MCAS symptom improvement even at microdoses of semaglutide and tirzepatide.
• How GLP 1s compare to traditional MCAS treatments like antihistamines, cromolyn, and leukotriene inhibitors, and why they may need to be used earlier in care.
• The metabolic connection: how mast cells influence insulin resistance, why diet matters, and how approaches like carnivore or low plant toxin diets can calm mast cell activity.
• The role of the nervous system, limbic retraining, and stress in driving MCAS and why nervous system work is often the first step in stabilization.
• Personalized treatment: how she chooses between semaglutide, tirzepatide, and other emerging medications, and why dosing must be individualized.
• Long term use, expectations, and why GLP 1s may become recognized as immune modulators rather than just metabolic therapies.

EPISODE RESOURCES 

Replay Dr Dempsey's latest MCAS & GLP1 Masterclass

https://drtaniadempsey.com/mcas-inflammation-glp-1-replay/

Ellie Md

High quality GLP1 and Peptide resource that offers micro dosing of GLP1

https://elliemd.com/Thetrailtohealth

Immunolytics

At home mold testing kits designed to help identify environmental triggers that can worsen MCAS and chronic inflammation.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/immunolytics

AirDoctor

High efficiency air purifiers made to remove allergens, pollutants and mold spores, supporting cleaner air for sensitive immune systems.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/AirDoctor

Wonderfeel

Science backed longevity formulas that support healthy aging, cellular energy and inflammation balance.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/wonderfeel

Tick MiTT

Chemical free tick removal mitt designed to help safely reduce the risk of tick borne infections. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 10% OFF.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/tickmitt

Earthing

Grounding tools that reduce environmental stress and support the autonomic nervous system.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/earthing

CONNECT WITH THE GUEST

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/drtaniadempseymd/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/taniadempseymd/

LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/taniadempsey/

Youtube:

https://www.youtube.com/@DrTaniaDempsey

KEYWORDS

MCAS, GLP 1 therapy, chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, immune dysregulation, long COVID, histamine intolerance, mold toxicity, environmental triggers, neuroinflammation, nervous system regulation, limbic system, mast cell stabilizers, personalized medicine.

MEET THE GUEST

Dr. Darin Ingels is a licensed naturopathic doctor, author, and leading expert in Lyme disease and chronic illness. After overcoming his own three year battle with Lyme through diet, lifestyle changes, and natural therapies, he developed an integrative approach that has helped thousands of patients heal with fewer side effects.

Dr. Ingels also uses these same tools to manage multiple sclerosis and support long term wellness. Featured on WebMD, MindBodyGreen, and ThriveGlobal, he is the author of The Lyme Solution, a five part plan for addressing the inflammatory and autoimmune aspects of Lyme disease.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT

- Dr. Darin’s personal three year battle with Lyme disease, why conventional treatment failed him, and how diet, lifestyle, and natural therapies became the foundation of his recovery.

- The root causes behind chronic Lyme symptoms, why so many patients remain sick after antibiotics, and how inflammation and autoimmunity play a major role.

- The core pillars of his integrative approach, including gut healing, immune regulation, nervous system support, and environmental detoxification.

- How chronic infections interact with mold, co infections, food sensitivities, and stress, and why addressing these layers can dramatically change outcomes.

- Practical steps patients can take at home to support their recovery, from targeted nutrition to sleep, pacing, and daily lifestyle habits.

- Dr. Darin’s experience being diagnosed with MS, how he manages symptoms naturally, and what he’s learned about long term resilience and immune balance.

- The message he wants every patient to hear: healing from Lyme and chronic illness is possible with the right plan, patience, and support.

EPISODE RESOURCES

DesBio

Homeopathic and integrative formulas designed to support detoxification, immune balance and chronic illness recovery.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Desbio

Heart and Soil Supplements

Grass fed organ supplements crafted to support nutrient density, mitochondrial function and whole body resilience. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 10% OFF.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/HeartandSoil

Integrative Peptides

Peptide based formulas developed to support immune function, gut health and cellular repair. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 10% OFF.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/IntegrativePeptides

Quicksilver Scientific

Liposomal supplements formulated to support detox pathways, glutathione status and immune system stability. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 15% OFF.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/QuicksilverScientific

Tick MiTT

Chemical free tick removal mitt designed to help safely reduce the risk of tick borne infections. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 10% OFF.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/tickmitt

CONNECT WITH THE GUEST

Website:

http://dariningelsnd.com

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/dariningelsnd/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/dariningelsnd/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarinIngelsND

KEYWORDS

Lyme disease, chronic Lyme, tick borne illness, co infections, autoimmunity, immune dysregulation, chronic inflammation, multiple sclerosis, MS, gut health, microbiome imbalance, detoxification, mold exposure, environmental toxins, nervous system regulation, limbic system retraining, herbal medicine, integrative medicine, functional medicine, chronic illness recovery, whole body healing, personalized medicine.---Find me on social media!www.thetrailtohealth.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetrailtohealth/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thishealthylifepodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetrailtohealth/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/thetrailtohealth/TikTok: @thetrailtohealthTwitter: https://twitter.com/trailtohealth

 MEET THE GUEST 

Dr. Cameron “Dr. Cam” Caswell is an adolescent psychologist, parent coach, and founder of the Parenting Teens Academy. Known as “The Teen Translator,” she teaches parents how to replace power struggles with connection using practical, science based tools. With over 20 years of experience and a doctorate in Developmental Psychology, Dr. Cam has helped thousands of families navigate shutdowns, anxiety, and emotional blowups. Featured on NPR, FOX, and Newsweek, she combines clinical expertise with personal insight as a mom of a teen to guide parents toward calmer, more connected relationships with their kids.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT 

• Why teens are one of the most misunderstood age groups and how “translating” their behavior can turn power struggles into connection.
• The biggest myths about teenagers, including rebellion, laziness, and tech addiction, and what is actually happening underneath those behaviors.
• What brain development looks like in adolescence, how the emotional brain and prefrontal cortex mature, and why forgetfulness, moodiness, and risk taking are normal parts of this stage.
• How to navigate phones and social media without making them “the enemy,” and how to set realistic guardrails that keep teens safe while respecting their need for connection.
• Practical tools for de-escalating conflict, regulating your own nervous system, and using curiosity instead of punishment to understand what your teen is really solving for.
• How to talk about hard topics like substances, safety, and modern stressors, using values and simple guardrails instead of long lists of rules.
• What to do if you feel like you “messed up” as a parent, including repair conversations, apologizing well, rebuilding trust over time, and why Dr. Cam feels so hopeful about today’s teens.

EPISODE RESOURCES  

Green Chef

Certified organic meal kits with prepped ingredients that make it easier for families to cook nourishing meals together.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/greenchef

TrueDark

Blue light blocking eyewear and tools designed to support circadian rhythm balance and improve sleep for teens and adults. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 10% OFF.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/truedark

HigherDOSE

Wellness technology that promotes relaxation and gently supports self care habits as teens grow. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/HigherDose

Carnivore Crisps

High protein, single ingredient meat snacks that offer a clean and convenient option for busy teens on the go. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 10% OFF.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/CarnivoreCrisps

LoveBird

Grain free cereal made with simple, organic ingredients and no refined sugar for quick, easy morning meals. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 15% OFF.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/LoveBird

SmartSweetsLow sugar candy alternatives created with better ingredients for a lighter treat option. Use code THETRAILTOHEALTH for 10% OFF.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/SmartSweets

CONNECT WITH THE GUEST 

Website:

https://www.askdrcam.com/

Instagram: 

https://www.instagram.com/drcamcaswell

Facebook 

https://www.facebook.com/drcamcaswell

TikTok: 

https://www.tiktok.com/@the.teen.translator

YouTube: 

https://youtube.com/@cameroncaswellconsulting

KEYWORDS

Parenting teens, teen behavior, adolescent psychology, communication, emotional regulation, teen brain development, family dynamics, tech and teens, social media, boundaries, conflict resolution, mental health, raising teens.

MEET THE GUEST

Dr. Mary Pardee is a naturopathic doctor specializing in preventative medicine and longevity. She is the founder of modrn med, a Los Angeles-based practice offering both in-person and telemedicine services focused on extending lifespan and improving healthspan. With a background in nutrition, exercise physiology, and performance research, Dr. Mary is dedicated to bridging the gap between living longer and living well. She also educates through her course The Truth About Supplements, which debunks common myths about vitamins and supplements.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT

• Dr. Mary’s personal journey with lifelong constipation and how it led her to specialize in chronic GI issues like IBS, SIBO, and gut-brain disorders.
• What IBS really is, the criteria for diagnosis, its subtypes (constipation, diarrhea, mixed), and why abdominal pain and bowel habit changes are key hallmarks.
• Root causes of IBS, including stress, trauma, microbiome imbalances, infections, inflammation, and hormones, with women being more affected.
• Understanding SIBO and IMO, how bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine drives gas, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea, and why patterns don’t always fit the textbook.
• The truth about stool testing: when conventional labs are useful for parasites, IBD, or inflammation, and why most direct-to-consumer microbiome tests are unreliable.
• The role of fiber, FODMAPs, and fermented foods in long-term gut health, how to improve tolerance without flaring symptoms, and who benefits most from probiotic-rich foods.
• The gut-brain connection: how vagus nerve signaling, stress pathways, and misfiring “pressure sensors” cause bloating, and how CBT can rewire the brain-gut axis for lasting relief.
• Clearing up myths around parasites, why most Americans don’t actually have them, and what mucus strings really are.
• Why colonoscopy is one of the most powerful tools for longevity, cancer prevention, and early detection, and when to consider it based on age or family history.

EPISODE RESOURCES 

Genopalate

DNA-based nutrition testing to personalize your diet for optimal gut and metabolic health. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for $10 OFF.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/genopalate

BiOptimizers

Supplements designed to improve digestion, gut function, and overall performance. Use code THETRAILTOHEALTH for 10% OFF.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/biooptimizer

Great Lakes Wellness

Collagen and protein blends that support gut lining, skin, and joint health.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/greatlakesgelatin

Bonafide Provisions

Slow-simmered organic bone broths that nourish digestion and immunity. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH15 for 15% OFF.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/BonafideProvisions

Caraway Cookware

Non-toxic ceramic cookware for clean, gut-friendly home cooking. Use code THETRAILTOHEALTH10 for 10% OFF.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/CarawayCookware

Vitamix

High-performance blenders for smoothies and fiber-rich meals that support gut health.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/vitamix

Paleo on the Go

AIP and paleo meal delivery service for those managing gut-healing diets. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for $15 OFF first order.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/paleoonthego

Pete’s Paleo

Fresh, chef-prepared paleo meals to reduce inflammation and ease digestion. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH10 for $10 OFF first order.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/PetesPaleo

Carnivore Crisps

Simple, clean protein snacks made from just meat and salt, easy on the gut. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH25 for 10% OFF.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/CarnivoreCrisps

KEYWORDS

IBS, SIBO, constipation, bloating, diarrhea, gut brain axis, microbiome, stool tests, parasites, colonoscopy, fiber, FODMAP, fermented foods, vagus nerve, CBT, longevity.

MEET THE GUESTS

Dr. David Amron and Dr. Karen Herbst are leading experts in lipedema and related fat disorders. Dr. Amron, a board-certified dermatologic surgeon and founder of The Roxbury Institute, developed the Advanced Lipedema Treatment (ALT) Program after performing over 10,000 surgeries. Dr. Herbst, a board-certified endocrinologist and Head of Research at The Roxbury Institute, co-authored the U.S. standard of care for lipedema and has pioneered research on lipedema, Dercum’s disease, and connective tissue disorders.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT

- Diagnosing and preventing Lipedema as the next frontier in care, shifting focus from symptom management to true root-cause healing.

- Hormones through life stages, puberty, pregnancy, and menopause, and how these transitions influence the onset and progression of Lipedema.

- Estrogen, progesterone, and cortisol in driving inflammation, vascular changes, and fat distribution unique to this condition.- Bioidentical HRT and GLP-1s: how they work, when they help, who should avoid them, and their evolving role before and after surgery.

- Surgery timing around pregnancy or menopause and how early intervention can protect long-term outcomes and tissue health.

- Managing swelling through compression, lymphatic drainage, pool therapy, rebounders, and anti-inflammatory nutrition.

- Why diuretics backfire for most Lipedema patients and what safer, evidence-based options exist for fluid balance and inflammation control.

- Fertility, IVF, and hormone shifts in Lipedema, plus insights into metabolic and inflammatory responses during treatment.

- Ultrasound as a powerful diagnostic and monitoring tool that strengthens medical validation and insurance accessibility.

- Advocacy, patient education, and the Lipedema Society’s growing mission to advance research, coverage, and global awareness.

EPISODE RESOURCES

Diet Doc

GLPs to manage Lipedema inflammation. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 10% off. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/DietDoc

Therasage

 Infrared therapy devices that support detox, lymphatic health, and inflammation reduction. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 10% OFF. 

shop.thetrailtohealth.com/therasage

Prolon 

Five-day fasting-mimicking program that supports metabolism, inflammation, and cellular renewal. Use code THETRAILTOHEALTH for 20% OFF. shop.thetrailtohealth.com/prolon

Organifi 

Superfood blends that reduce stress, balance hormones, and nourish the body. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 20% OFF. shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Organifi

BiOptimizers 

Digestive and metabolic supplements for gut health and inflammation balance. Use code THETRAILTOHEALTH for 10% OFF. 

shop.thetrailtohealth.com/biooptimizer

Somavedic 

Frequency devices that harmonize your environment and support lymphatic flow and sleep. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 10% OFF. 

shop.thetrailtohealth.com/somavedic

---Find me on social media!www.thetrailtohealth.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetrailtohealth/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thishealthylifepodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetrailtohealth/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/thetrailtohealth/TikTok: @thetrailtohealthTwitter: https://twitter.com/trailtohealth

MEET THE GUEST

Dr. Shahin Ghadir is a leading fertility specialist and double board certified physician in Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. A founding partner of one of the nation’s top fertility centers, he also serves as an assistant clinical professor at UCLA and USC. Widely recognized as a Top Doctor in the U.S., Dr. Ghadir is known for his approachable nature and commitment to helping patients achieve their dream of building a family.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT

• Why fertility challenges are rising, how the biological clock truly works for men and women, and the key tests that give a clear picture of your reproductive timeline.
• When to consider egg freezing, why timing matters so much, and what the real egg freezing process feels like from injections to retrieval to recovery.
• How IVF has evolved, including modern genetic testing that screens embryos for all chromosomes and dramatically improves success rates.
• What actually affects egg quality, what doesn’t, and why waiting to “get healthy first” can sometimes work against you.
• Fertility pathways for same sex couples and single parents, from reciprocal IVF to donor eggs, donor sperm, and navigating surrogacy with clarity and confidence.
• Costs and accessibility of fertility care, how insurance and employer benefits play a role, and what Dr. Ghadir hopes will change in the future.
• The biggest myths he wants to dispel and the most important advice he gives every patient: get informed early so you can make empowered decisions about your future family.

EPISODE RESOURCES 

Book An Appointment With Dr. Shahin Ghadir At HRC Fertility http://www.havingbabies.com/appointments/

Bonafide Bone Broth

Warming organic bone broth to keep you nourished on your fertility journey. I LIVED off these soups on my journey. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH15 for 15% off. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/BonafideProvisions

Societea

Non alcoholic tea based wine to feel festive during fertility. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 10% off. shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Societea

Promix Protein

High quality protein for quick on the go protein or meal replacement when you have low appetite. Code THETRAILTOHEALTH for 10% off. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/PromixNutrition

Wonderfeel

NMN to support mitochondria and NAD levels. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/wonderfeel

Pique TeaPurity tested teas and herbal concentrates rich in antioxidants and crafted to support your fertility journey - the peppermint was everything for me! shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Pique

ThorneScience backed vitamins and supplements made with clean ingredients and rigorous testing for everyday wellness.shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Thorne

SomavedicFrequency devices created to harmonize your space and support a calmer, more balanced environment. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 10% OFF.shop.thetrailtohealth.com/somavedic

CONNECT WITH THE GUEST

Website

http://www.havingbabies.com/appointments/

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/drshahinghadir/

https://www.instagram.com/hrcfertility

https://www.instagram.com/hrcfertilitybevhills/

TikTok

https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.shahinghadir

YouTube

https://www.youtube.com/@DrShahinGhadir/featured

KEYWORDS

Fertility specialist Beverly Hills, IVF expert Dr. Shahin Ghadir, Fertility, reproductive endocrinology, egg freezing, IVF, egg quality, egg quantity, fertility over 40, AMH testing, antral follicle count, hormonal health, infertility, preconception planning, genetic embryo testing, IVF success rates, same sex family building, donor eggs, donor sperm, surrogacy, fertility preservation, reproductive wellness, healthy aging, cellular health, women’s health

MEET THE GUEST

Dr. Ambika Vaid is an integrative veterinarian at Chewy’s first-ever pet clinic in Denver and an advisor to Badlands Ranch, the premium dog nutrition brand founded by actress Katherine Heigl. Inspired by the loss of her own dog to chronic illness, Dr. Vaid turned to holistic veterinary care and now blends conventional medicine with acupuncture, herbal therapies, and nutritional strategies. She’s currently completing advanced training in Western herbal medicine and veterinary acupuncture, with a mission to help pets live longer, healthier lives.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT

How the loss of Dr. Vaid’s beloved labradoodle to chronic illness became the catalyst for her transition into integrative veterinary care.

The rise of chronic health conditions in pets, including allergies, gut issues, anxiety, joint problems, and cancer, and why conventional treatments often don’t address root causes.

How Dr. Vaid combines conventional diagnostics with Eastern approaches like acupuncture, Western herbal medicine, detox protocols, and nutritional therapy for comprehensive pet care.

The connection between poor gut health, leaky gut, and immune dysregulation, and how these imbalances affect mood, behavior, and physical health in animals.

The impact of common environmental stressors, such as EMFs, pesticides, household toxins, and over-vaccination, on inflammation, detox capacity, and long-term pet health.

Why she joined Badlands Ranch as an advisor and how she helps ensure clean, science-backed, nutrient-dense dog food formulations that support foundational health.

Her approach to functional lab testing, food sensitivity detection, and individualized treatment plans, including the use of Chinese herbs, supplements, and therapeutic diets.

How the autonomic nervous system plays a role in chronic illness and behavior issues in pets, and how she supports it through non-pharmaceutical tools.

Practical tips for pet parents: safe flea and tick prevention, liver support, reducing allergen load, and improving emotional regulation in anxious pets.

The future of veterinary care and why Dr. Vaid believes the next evolution lies in personalized, holistic, and preventative animal medicine.

EPISODE RESOURCES 

Chewy Online pet marketplace offering a wide selection of food, supplements, and wellness products.⁠

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Chewy⁠

Higher Dose Red light therapy and PEMF mats for humans and animals, designed to support relaxation, circulation, and inflammation recovery.⁠

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/HigherDose⁠

Earthing Grounding tools that help reduce exposure to EMFs and support nervous system balance.⁠

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/earthing

⁠Tick MiTT

Reusable mitt designed to remove ticks from pets without chemicals or sprays.⁠

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/tickmitt⁠

CONNECT WITH THE GUEST

Website:⁠http://badlandsranch.com

⁠Instagram:⁠https://www.instagram.com/drambikavaid⁠

KEYWORDS

Pet health, integrative veterinary care, holistic pet wellness, acupuncture, herbal medicine, pet nutrition, chronic disease, preventative care, dental health, surgery, environmental toxins, vaccine protocols, pet food quality, Badlands Ranch, Chewy clinics, functional medicine for animals.