In this episode, I talk with Maggie Awad, a functional sports medicine nurse practitioner, about how gut health affects performance, energy, and recovery. We explore the connection between the gut and the brain, why good digestion matters, and how issues like inflammation or poor nutrient absorption can impact focus, sleep, and overall health.
We also…
In this episode of the Health Upgrade podcast, I sit down with Ashok Gupta to explore the groundbreaking science of neuroplasticity and how retraining the brain may hold the key to healing chronic illness. Ashok shares his personal journey with chronic fatigue syndrome and how that experience inspired him to create the Gupta Program, a…
In this episode of the Health Upgrade podcast, I dive into a fascinating research article from March 2026 exploring how chaotic fluctuations in heart rate variability (HRV) signal mental activity during task-based work. I unpack the science behind HRV, highlighting the dynamic interaction between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, and explain how healthy levels…
In this episode of the Health Upgrade podcast, we talk with Dr. Amie Hornamen about thyroid health and how it affects the body.
We get into the challenges people face with thyroid issues, including misdiagnoses, and how these problems can impact both high performers and everyday life. We also break down how thyroid hormones work,…
In this episode, I welcome Andrea Donsky back to discuss her new book, "Nourishing Menopause." Together, we explore how menopause is more than just hot flashes and night sweats, revealing that there are over 100 symptoms, many of which often go unrecognized. Andrea shares her personal journey, surprising research findings, and the importance of acknowledging…
In this episode of the Health Upgrade podcast we welcome Dr. Cynthia Thurlow, author of The Menopause Gut, to dive deep into the connections between gut health, hormones, and the aging process, especially for women navigating perimenopause and menopause. Together, we unravel how hormonal changes impact the microbiome, immunity, and even mitochondrial function, emphasizing the…
In this enlightening episode, we sit down with functional medicine expert Dr. Sam Shay to explore how decoding your DNA can revolutionize your approach to health. Dr. Shay shares his unique personal story, connects genetics to chronic illness, and breaks down the difference between traditional Western medicine and functional, personalized healthcare.
The conversation dives deep…
In this episode, we explore how to stay healthy with Dr. Adam Perlman, Chief Medical Officer at Pendulum Therapeutics. We focus on Akkermansia muciniphila, an important probiotic that helps protect your gut and supports overall health. From controlling blood sugar to balancing your immune system, this microbe could be a key part of your health.…
In this episode of the Health Upgrade podcast, I dive into the power of breath and its essential role in regulating our nervous system, especially for high performers. We explore why most of us aren’t breathing optimally and how proper techniques can shift our bodies from survival mode into recovery and healing. I break down…
In this episode, I dive deep into the often-overlooked biochemical condition known as pyrrole disorder. You'll learn how pyrroles, nutrient depletion, and vagus nerve dysfunction can impact emotional regulation, stress resilience, and overall well-being. I break down the science behind heme and hemoglobin, then connect the dots between emotional symptoms and key nutrients like vitamin…
