Advertise on podcast: Keeping Abreast with Dr. Jenn

In this solo episode of Keeping Abreast, Dr. Jenn Simmons answers the exact questions women ask her every day about breast cancer risk, hormone therapy, aromatase inhibitors, and screening. She breaks down the difference between bioidentical and non-bioidentical hormones, what “high risk” actually means, why fear-based medicine keeps women stuck, and how to build a screening and prevention plan you understand and trust. If you’ve felt dismissed, confused, or pressured into one-size-fits-all choices, this episode gives you language, clarity, and next steps to advocate for your body. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Bioidentical vs non-bioidentical hormones, and what matters after breast cancerThe truth about estrogen, recurrence risk, and the “have vs had breast cancer” distinctionWhy aromatase inhibitors feel brutal, what they’re doing, and how to support your body on themWhat “high risk” really means, plus how breast density actually fits into riskSafer screening options like QT and ultrasound, and what to do when QT isn’t availableHow the ARIA tear test works, what a positive result means, and your next stepsWhat calcifications can signal and how to think about DCIS without panicHow to combine integrative care with conventional oncology without losing supportWhy breast cancer is tied to inflammation and metabolic health, and what to trackEpisode Timeline: 00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Episode 03:05 Why Women Aren’t Getting Clear Answers About Breast Health 06:00 Bioidentical vs Non-Bioidentical Hormones 13:30 Estrogen, Hormone Therapy, and Breast Cancer Risk 20:10 Aromatase Inhibitors Explained 27:45 Supporting Quality of Life While on Aromatase Inhibitors 34:30 Understanding What “High Risk” Really Means 39:40 Breast Density Explained 45:30 Limitations of Mammograms and MRI 50:40 The ARIA Tear Test and Prevention-Based Screening 56:30 QT Scan, Ultrasound, and Safer Imaging Options 1:02:40 Screening After Breast Cancer Treatment 1:07:50 Breast Calcifications and DCIS 1:11:00 Integrative Care and Root Cause Healing 1:13:00 Closing Thoughts and Where to Find Support To talk to a member of Dr. Jenn's team and learn more about working privately with RHMD, visit: https://jennsimmons.simplero.com/page/377266?kuid=327aca17-5135-44cf-9210-c0b77a56e26d&kref=vOKy0sAiorrK To get your copy of Dr. Jenn's book, The Smart Woman's Guide to Breast Cancer, visit: https://tinyurl.com/SmartWomansBreastCancerGuide To purchase the auria breast cancer screening test go here https://auria.care/ and use the code DRJENN20 for 20% Off. Connect with Dr. Jenn: Website: https://www.jennsimmonsmd.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrJennSimmons Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjennsimmons/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.jennsimmons

In this episode of Keeping Abreast, Dr. Jenn Simmons is joined by Dr. Erica Schwartz, a pioneer in hormone and integrative medicine, for a blunt conversation about menopause, hormone replacement therapy, and why women are still being denied care that protects their long-term health. Together, they get real about why modern medicine still runs on a “wait until you’re sick” model, why hospitals can be the most dangerous place to heal, and how the system trains both doctors and patients to outsource responsibility. They break down the lasting damage of the Women’s Health Initiative, the fear-based messaging around estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, and the real-world consequences of medical gatekeeping from pharmacies to hospitals.  This is a conversation about truth, autonomy, and what it actually looks like to practice medicine from the whole-body, whole-life perspective. In this episode you’ll learn: Why conventional medicine is built for acute care, not long-term healthHow the Women’s Health Initiative changed hormone care for generations of womenWhy “just deal with it” menopause advice is harmful (and wildly outdated)What estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone actually do in the female bodyWhy testosterone for women is still restricted and why that mattersHow medical errors and hospital systems put patients at riskWhy taking responsibility for your health isn’t optional anymore Episode Timeline: 00:00 The Crisis in Conventional Medicine 03:54 Dr. Schwartz's Journey to Holistic Health 09:59 The Shift from Acute Care to Preventative Health 17:47 The Importance of Hormonal Health 25:29 The Impact of Alcohol on Health 28:10 Nutrition and Cancer: A Misunderstood Connection 30:55 The Role of Hormones in Health 36:06 Understanding the Importance of Hormones 40:24 The Truth About Cancer and Hormones 44:38 Empowering Patients in Their Health Journey 47:45 The Need for Compassionate Care in Medicine 51:03 Introduction to Breast Health Awareness Dr. Erica Schwartz Visit her Website: www.eshealth.com/ Follow her on Instagram: www.instagram.com/eshealth/ To talk to a member of Dr. Jenn's team and learn more about working privately with RHMD, visit: https://jennsimmons.simplero.com/page/377266?kuid=327aca17-5135-44cf-9210-c0b77a56e26d&kref=vOKy0sAiorrK To get your copy of Dr. Jenn's book, The Smart Woman's Guide to Breast Cancer, visit: https://tinyurl.com/SmartWomansBreastCancerGuide To purchase the auria breast cancer screening test go here https://auria.care/ and use the code DRJENN20 for 20% Off. Connect with Dr. Jenn: Website: https://www.jennsimmonsmd.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrJennSimmons Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjennsimmons/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.jennsimmons

In this episode of Keeping Abreast, Dr. Jenn Simmons is joined by Dr. Eugene Shippen, hormone specialist best known for his early work in bioidentical hormone therapy and for authoring The Testosterone Syndrome. Together, they explore the overlooked biology behind endometriosis, breast cancer, and persistent hormonal imbalance, focusing on how aromatase-driven inflammation links these conditions and why standard treatments often miss the root cause. The conversation covers individualized vitamin D dosing, iodine’s role in thyroid and breast health, testosterone in women, and a clear, evidence-based approach to hormone replacement therapy, who it’s right for, who should avoid it, and why many women are being denied care unnecessarily. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: How estrogen and inflammation drive hormone-positive breast cancerWhy breast tumors produce their own estrogen and what treatment often overlooksWhat endometriosis reveals about aromatase activity and breast cancer biologyWhy vitamin D functions as a hormone and how deficiency impacts breast cancer risk and outcomesThe role of iodine in breast tissue, dense breasts, and fibrocystic diseaseWhen hormone replacement therapy may be appropriate after breast cancer and when it is not Episode Timeline 00:00 Introduction to Hormonal Health 05:06 Understanding Endometriosis 12:28 Endometriosis and Breast Cancer Connections 17:33 The Coimbra Protocol and Vitamin D 22:15 Vitamin D's Role in Disease Prevention 27:55 Individualized Vitamin D Dosing 35:39 Monitoring Health Conditions 37:03 The Role of Testosterone in Women's Health 42:46 Understanding Iodine and Its Importance 50:50 Hormone Replacement Therapy: Current Perspectives 01:00:18 Breast Cancer and Hormone Replacement 01:03:39 Environmental Factors Influencing Breast Cancer Rates To talk to a member of Dr. Jenn's team and learn more about working privately with RHMD, visit: https://jennsimmons.simplero.com/page/377266?kuid=327aca17-5135-44cf-9210-c0b77a56e26d&kref=vOKy0sAiorrK To get your copy of Dr. Jenn's book, The Smart Woman's Guide to Breast Cancer, visit: https://tinyurl.com/SmartWomansBreastCancerGuide To purchase the auria breast cancer screening test go here https://auria.care/ and use the code DRJENN20 for 20% Off. Connect with Dr. Jenn: Website: https://www.jennsimmonsmd.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrJennSimmons Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjennsimmons/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.jennsimmons

In this episode of Keeping Abreast, Dr. Jenn Simmons is joined by Dr. Susan Brian, an Ivy League–trained endocrinologist, certified menopause specialist, and researcher, to discuss how GLP-1 medications are transforming the treatment of metabolic dysfunction. They explore how therapies like semaglutide and tirzepatide work beyond weight loss, why metabolic disease often goes undiagnosed for years, and how GLP-1s impact diabetes, fatty liver disease, cardiovascular risk, and body composition. The conversation addresses appropriate versus inappropriate use, real risks versus media-driven fear, and why resistance training is essential to protect muscle during weight loss. Dr. Brian also discusses emerging questions around GLP-1s in cancer outcomes and longevity, emphasizing the importance of individualized prescribing, proper screening, and patient education. In This Episode, You’ll Learn Why GLP-1 medications have fundamentally changed metabolic medicineHow GLP-1s compare to older treatments like metforminWho is an appropriate candidate for GLP-1 therapyHow GLP-1–related weight loss may impact breast cancerWhy early screening for metabolic dysfunction mattersHow to preserve muscle while losing weightWhen microdosing or maintenance dosing may make senseHow to avoid common side effects linked to rapid weight loss Episode Timeline: 00:00 Introduction to GLP-1 and Metabolic Health 06:32 Appropriate vs. Inappropriate Use of GLP-1 12:29 Understanding Metabolic Dysfunction 18:18 Menopause and Metabolic Health 31:42 Understanding Cardiovascular Protection and Hormonal Treatments 38:13 The Role of Newer Drugs in Weight Loss and Fatty Liver 48:50 The Importance of Appetite Regulation in Weight Management 53:26 Microdosing GLP-1s for Longevity: A New Frontier 01:00:19 Safe dosing, rate of weight loss, and best practices To talk to a member of Dr. Jenn's team and learn more about working privately with RHMD, visit: https://jennsimmons.simplero.com/page/377266?kuid=327aca17-5135-44cf-9210-c0b77a56e26d&kref=vOKy0sAiorrK To get your copy of Dr. Jenn's book, The Smart Woman's Guide to Breast Cancer, visit: https://tinyurl.com/SmartWomansBreastCancerGuide To purchase the auria breast cancer screening test go here https://auria.care/ and use the code DRJENN20 for 20% Off. Connect with Dr. Jenn: Website: https://www.jennsimmonsmd.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrJennSimmons Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjennsimmons/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.jennsimmons

In this episode of Keeping Abreast, Dr. Jenn Simmons sits down with Dr. Joseph Dituri, a biomedical engineer, hyperbaric medicine specialist, and former U.S. Navy saturation diver, to explore the science of healing, aging, and human resilience. Drawing from his clinical work in hyperbaric medicine and his recovery from a traumatic brain injury, Dr. Dituri explains how oxygen, pressure, and controlled physiological stress affect inflammation, sleep quality, immune function, and cellular repair. Together, they examine the evidence behind biological versus chronological age, the role of muscle and bone health in longevity, and the evolving, evidence-informed use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy in healing and cancer support.  In This Episode, You'll Learn: What happens to the human body when it lives under pressure for 100 days underwaterHow hyperbaric oxygen therapy impacts inflammation, immune function, sleep, and agingThe difference between biological age vs. chronological age and why it matters.Why muscle and bone health are critical pillars of longevityHow healthy stress can strengthen the brain, body, and immune systemThe science behind collagen synthesis, stem cells, and tissue repairWhat the research actually says about hyperbaric medicine and cancerHow to identify qualified, safe hyperbaric centers and avoid poorly run facilities Episode Timeline Highlights: 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Joe Dituri and His Mission 03:08 What Hyperbaric Medicine Is and How It Works 05:54 Why He Chose to Live Underwater for 100 Days 08:54 Daily Life, Work, and Challenges Beneath the Ocean 11:53 Sleep, Brain Function, and Cognitive Changes Under Pressure 14:53 Inflammation, Telomeres, and Measuring Cellular Health 18:05 The Core Science Behind Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy 28:50 Isolation, Connection, and Human Biology 33:49 Biological Age vs. Chronological Age 50:35 Hyperbaric Therapy for Health Optimization 53:17 Collagen, Tissue Healing, and Regeneration 56:07 Hyperbaric Medicine and Cancer Support 01:06:50 Treatment Frequency, Duration, and Expectations 01:12:03 How to Find Safe and Qualified Hyperbaric Centers 01:15:52 Longevity, Optimization, and What’s Next Where to Find Dr. Joseph Dituri (Dr. DeepSea) Website: https://drdeepsea.com/ Instagram: www.instagram.com/drdeepsea To talk to a member of Dr. Jenn's team and learn more about working privately with RHMD, visit: https://jennsimmons.simplero.com/page/377266?kuid=327aca17-5135-44cf-9210-c0b77a56e26d&kref=vOKy0sAiorrK To get your copy of Dr. Jenn's book, The Smart Woman's Guide to Breast Cancer, visit: https://tinyurl.com/SmartWomansBreastCancerGuide To purchase the auria breast cancer screening test go here https://auria.care/ and use the code DRJENN20 for 20% Off. Connect with Dr. Jenn: Website: https://www.jennsimmonsmd.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrJennSimmons Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjennsimmons/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.jennsimmons

In this solo episode of Keeping Abreast, Dr. Jenn Simmons delivers a clear, evidence-based breakdown of modern breast cancer screening and prevention. She explains why so many women are confused about breast health and how outdated screening practices, lack of informed consent, and drive fear rather than clarity. Dr. Jenn distinguishes between screening and diagnostic imaging, emphasizing that screening for healthy, asymptomatic women should be safe. She introduces innovative, non-radiation screening tools including the Auria Tears Test, which identifies inflammatory precursors to breast cancer, and the QT Scan, a pain-free, radiation-free 3D imaging technology. The episode addresses common concerns around mammograms, biopsies, dense breasts, estrogen, and hormone replacement therapy. In This Episode, You'll Learn: The difference between screening and diagnostic breast imagingWhat mammograms do - and don’t - actually tell youHow inflammation shows up before breast cancer developsHow the  Auria Tears Test identifies early inflammatory riskHow the QT scan can be used for screeningWhether biopsies can cause cancer to spreadHow estrogen and hormone replacement fit into breast health Episode Timeline Highlights: 00:00 Introduction to Breast Health Awareness 01:57 Understanding Mammograms: Screening vs. Diagnostic 09:11 Innovative Screening Methods: QT and  Auria Test 16:20 The Importance of Breast Cancer Awareness 17:55 The Future of Breast Cancer Screening 23:07 Biopsy Safety and Dense Breasts 28:13 Debunking Myths: Estrogen and Breast Cancer 32:01 Hormone Replacement Therapy: A Health Plan Perspective To talk to a member of Dr. Jenn's team and learn more about working privately with RHMD, visit: https://calendly.com/stephanie-1031/discovery-call To get your copy of Dr. Jenn's book, The Smart Woman's Guide to Breast Cancer, visit: https://tinyurl.com/SmartWomansBreastCancerGuide To purchase the auria breast cancer screening test go here https://auria.care/ and use the code DRJENN20 for 20% Off. Connect with Dr. Jenn: Website: https://www.realhealthmd.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrJennSimmons Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjennsimmons/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.jennsimmons To talk to a member of Dr. Jenn's team and learn more about working privately with RHMD, visit: https://jennsimmons.simplero.com/page/377266?kuid=327aca17-5135-44cf-9210-c0b77a56e26d&kref=vOKy0sAiorrK To get your copy of Dr. Jenn's book, The Smart Woman's Guide to Breast Cancer, visit: https://tinyurl.com/SmartWomansBreastCancerGuide To purchase the auria breast cancer screening test go here https://auria.care/ and use the code DRJENN20 for 20% Off. Connect with Dr. Jenn: Website: https://www.jennsimmonsmd.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrJennSimmons Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjennsimmons/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.jennsimmons

In this compelling episode of Keeping Abreast, Dr. Jenn Simmons is joined by Dr. Michael Greger, physician, author of How Not to Die, and founder of NutritionFacts.org, for a focused conversation on breast cancer screening, prevention, and informed decision making. Together, they challenge common assumptions about mammograms, unpacking what research shows about over diagnosis, false reassurance, and the lack of overall survival benefit. Dr. Greger explains why women and physicians often overestimate the life-saving power of mammography and why informed consent is missing from screening discussions. Beyond screening, Dr. Greger explores how lifestyle shapes breast cancer risk, including plant-forward nutrition and the dangers of alcohol. Together, they emphasize empowering women with evidence-based information. 💬 If this episode resonates, please rate, review, and subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. In This Episode, You Will Learn: • Why mammograms do not improve overall survival  • What women are not told about overdiagnosis and false positives  • Why informed consent is missing from breast cancer screening  • How the Auria test detects inflammatory precursors before cancer develops  • Why prevention matters more than early detection  • How diet influences breast cancer risk and overall health  • Why plant-forward eating supports metabolic and hormonal balance  • Why alcohol significantly increases breast cancer risk even in small amounts  • How medical training underemphasizes nutrition science  • Why empowerment and education change health outcomes Episode Timeline Highlights: 00:00 Why breast cancer prevention remains confusing 04:45 The problem with mammography and informed consent 08:34 Overdiagnosis, false reassurance, and hidden harms 12:17 Why survival benefits matter more than detection 14:44 Introducing the Auria at-home screening test 18:19 Medical dogma and resistance to change 20:46 Dr. Greger’s grandmother and the origin of his mission 24:13 Plant-based versus plant-exclusive eating 28:39 Alcohol as a major and overlooked breast cancer risk 32:51 Practical guidance for prevention and long-term health 33:56 Key takeaways on screening, diet, and empowerment Where to Find Dr. Michael Greger: Website: https://nutritionfacts.org Book: How Not to Die (10th Anniversary Edition) To talk to a member of Dr. Jenn's team and learn more about working privately with RHMD, visit: https://jennsimmons.simplero.com/page/377266?kuid=327aca17-5135-44cf-9210-c0b77a56e26d&kref=vOKy0sAiorrK To get your copy of Dr. Jenn's book, The Smart Woman's Guide to Breast Cancer, visit: https://tinyurl.com/SmartWomansBreastCancerGuide To purchase the auria breast cancer screening test go here https://auria.care/ and use the code DRJENN20 for 20% Off. Connect with Dr. Jenn: Website: https://www.jennsimmonsmd.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrJennSimmons Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjennsimmons/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.jennsimmons

In this powerful episode of Keeping Abreast, Dr. Jenn Simmons sits down with Taylor Dukes, former ICU nurse, functional health advocate, and founder of Taylor Dukes Wellness, to explore what happens when conventional medicine stops asking deeper questions. Taylor shares her journey from the ICU to facing her own brain tumor diagnosis, an experience that reshaped her understanding of health, healing, and the healthcare system. Together, she and Dr. Jenn discuss the emotional and spiritual toll carried by front line providers, the limitations of modern medical education, and why chronic and childhood illness have become increasingly normalized. This conversation highlights the role of nutrition, detoxification, stress management, and faith in healing, while emphasizing personal responsibility and advocacy in a toxic world. Taylor also shares how her family became part of her mission, creating accessible wellness solutions rooted in foundational health. 💬 If this episode resonates, please rate, review, and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. In This Episode, You Will Learn: Why many providers leave conventional medicine seeking root cause answersThe emotional and spiritual impact of ICU nursingHow a brain tumor diagnosis changed Taylor’s approach to healingWhy functional medicine focuses on cause, not symptom managementHow faith and mindfulness support recoveryWhy childhood conditions like fatty liver disease are increasingThe foundational role of nutrition and detoxificationWhy “normal” labs do not always mean optimal healthHow to advocate for yourself within the healthcare systemWhy healing can be accessible and practicalEpisode Timeline Highlights: 00:00 From conventional medicine to functional healing 03:12 Life inside the ICU 05:50 Personal health crisis and awakening 09:13 Discovering functional medicine 11:54 A brain tumor diagnosis 14:59 Integrative treatment decisions 18:01 Faith and mindfulness in healing 20:47 Life after surgery 23:59 From patient to provider 26:51 Education and prevention 37:06 Childhood health concerns 39:59 Nutrition and detoxification 44:33 Stress and healing 49:14 Building wellness products 56:05 Integrative medicine in practice Where to find Taylor Dukes: Instagram: @taylordukeswellness  Website: https://shop.taylordukeswellness.com To talk to a member of Dr. Jenn's team and learn more about working privately with RHMD, visit: https://jennsimmons.simplero.com/page/377266?kuid=327aca17-5135-44cf-9210-c0b77a56e26d&kref=vOKy0sAiorrK To get your copy of Dr. Jenn's book, The Smart Woman's Guide to Breast Cancer, visit: https://tinyurl.com/SmartWomansBreastCancerGuide To purchase the auria breast cancer screening test go here https://auria.care/ and use the code DRJENN20 for 20% Off. Connect with Dr. Jenn: Website: https://www.jennsimmonsmd.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrJennSimmons Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjennsimmons/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.jennsimmons

In this powerful episode of Keeping Abreast, Dr. Jenn Simmons sits down with Ryan Sternagel, founder of The Stern Method, to share the story that reshaped his life: his son’s cancer diagnosis and the desperate search for answers that followed.  What began as a parent’s nightmare became a deep dive into integrative medicine, environmental toxicity, nutrition, and the healing power of community. Ryan opens up about navigating a rigid medical system, facing pressure from institutions, and refusing to ignore his intuition. He and Dr. Jenn explore what happens when families question conventional recommendations, how holistic therapies can support traditional treatment, and why creating a healing environment is essential. This is a conversation about resilience, advocacy, and the belief that healing requires more than protocols. It’s about parents becoming empowered, finding the right team, and discovering hope in the darkest moments. In This Episode, You Will Learn: How Ryan’s son’s diagnosis launched his mission in integrative healthThe challenges families face when questioning conventional treatmentWhy intuition and research matter in medical decision makingHow nutrition and alternative therapies support cancer careThe emotional and practical realities of navigating the systemThe importance of community, mindset, and family supportWhy no single therapy is ever a silver bulletHow environment and lifestyle shape healingThe role of supplements within a comprehensive planWhat it means to build a truly healing home💬 If this episode resonates, please rate, review, and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. And share this story with someone who needs strength and hope. Episode Timeline Highlights:  02:46 Awakening to holistic health 06:00 The diagnosis and early decisions 09:00 Navigating hospitals and seeking answers 15:01 Nutrition and alternative therapies 17:55 Challenges with the medical system 20:58 Finding integrative oncology support 24:09 A family’s commitment to healing 30:08 Intuition, research, and advocacy 33:08 Bridging conventional and holistic approaches 36:02 Resilience and transformation 41:04 Purpose through adversity 48:35 Integrative and conventional treatment insights 56:39 Ivermectin and alternative therapies 01:01:27 Mindset in the healing process 01:13:44 Key supplements and holistic practices Where to Find Ryan Sternagel: Social: @thesternmethod Website: ourhealthnaturally.com Member Community: goingintegrativeplus.com To talk to a member of Dr. Jenn's team and learn more about working privately with RHMD, visit: https://jennsimmons.simplero.com/page/377266?kuid=327aca17-5135-44cf-9210-c0b77a56e26d&kref=vOKy0sAiorrK To get your copy of Dr. Jenn's book, The Smart Woman's Guide to Breast Cancer, visit: https://tinyurl.com/SmartWomansBreastCancerGuide To purchase the auria breast cancer screening test go here https://auria.care/ and use the code DRJENN20 for 20% Off. Connect with Dr. Jenn: Website: https://www.jennsimmonsmd.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrJennSimmons Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjennsimmons/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.jennsimmons

In this episode of Keeping Abreast, Dr. Jenn Simmons is joined by Dr. Austin Lake. Together, they explore how chronic disease became normalized, why the Flexner Report reshaped modern medical training, and what it really takes to take ownership of your health in today’s world. Dr. Lake shares why environmental toxins, stress, and lifestyle choices are driving so much illness, and how personal responsibility and community support can radically change health outcomes. He and Dr. Jenn break down the vaccine debate, the future of medical autonomy, and why true healing requires questioning long-held assumptions. They also dive into the role of diet and detoxification, the nuances of hormone replacement therapy, why foundational lifestyle work must come before hormones, and how faith and spiritual grounding help guide healing. This conversation empowers listeners to understand their bodies, advocate for their choices, and take back control in a healthcare system that often overlooks the root cause of disease. In This Episode, You Will Learn: • How the Flexner Report reshaped modern medicine • Why chronic disease is not inevitable • How environmental toxins and stress fuel illness • Why personal responsibility is essential for healing • How community support strengthens health outcomes • Why vaccines remain a complex and evolving conversation • How diet and detoxification support metabolic health • Why hormones cannot replace foundational lifestyle changes • How elimination diets uncover hidden sensitivities • Why stress is a major driver of metabolic dysfunction • How women experience and carry stress differently • Why faith and mindset support physical healing • Why understanding your own body leads to better care • Why healing requires education, empowerment, and curiosity Episode Timeline Highlights: 03:01 The evolution of medical education and practice 06:09 The Flexner Report and its impact on medicine 08:59 Challenging conventional wisdom in healthcare 11:58 The role of environmental factors in health 15:00 The importance of personal responsibility in health 18:06 The future of healthcare and community support 20:49 The vaccine debate and public health 27:06 Innovative approaches to breast cancer screening 33:00 The importance of diet and detoxification 35:51 Hormones as a tool, not a solution 42:52 The nuances of hormone replacement therapy 49:42 The role of diet in hormonal health 55:24 The connection between stress and metabolic health 01:00:05 The role of faith in health and healing Where to find Dr. Austin Lake: Social: @dr.austin To talk to a member of Dr. Jenn's team and learn more about working privately with RHMD, visit: https://jennsimmons.simplero.com/page/377266?kuid=327aca17-5135-44cf-9210-c0b77a56e26d&kref=vOKy0sAiorrK To get your copy of Dr. Jenn's book, The Smart Woman's Guide to Breast Cancer, visit: https://tinyurl.com/SmartWomansBreastCancerGuide To purchase the auria breast cancer screening test go here https://auria.care/ and use the code DRJENN20 for 20% Off. Connect with Dr. Jenn: Website: https://www.jennsimmonsmd.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrJennSimmons Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjennsimmons/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.jennsimmons

In this episode of Keeping Abreast, Dr. Jenn Simmons is joined by Emmie Keefe, also known as Healthy Emmie, a guiding voice in plant based nutrition. Together, they explore what it truly means to build a healthy relationship with food and why simplicity matters more than perfection. Emmie shares her personal journey into plant focused eating, how it transformed the health of her entire family, and why food addiction is one of the biggest unspoken challenges many people face. Dr. Jenn and Emmie break down the fears, resistance, and emotional attachments that keep people stuck, and why three weeks can be enough to create real, sustainable change. They also dive into intuitive eating, the pitfalls of calorie and macro counting, how to build a nourishing plate, and why weight training is essential for women at every age. This conversation empowers listeners to rethink their daily choices, understand the role of emotional and spiritual healing, and embrace the truth that health happens at home long before the doctor's office. In This Episode, You Will Learn: • Why everyone benefits from eating more plants • How food addiction shows up and why it is so hard to break • Why the brain can adapt quickly to new eating habits • How simplicity supports long term health • Why half your plate should be vegetables • How fear of losing comfort blocks change • Why three weeks can reset habits • The difference between weight loss and real disease prevention • Why intuitive eating reduces stress • How to build a nourishing plate with balance • Why weight training is critical for women • Why age should never stop you from lifting weights • How to simplify meal prep when overwhelmed • Why fasting is not right for everyone • How eating order impacts blood sugar • Why knowledge is empowerment • Why health is built daily in your home Episode Timeline Highlights: 00:00 Introduction to plant based nutrition and behavioral change 07:15 Emmie's journey into plant focused eating 17:06 Food addiction and convenience challenges 24:42 Resistance, comfort, and why change feels hard 32:30 Weight loss vs disease prevention 34:44 Intuitive eating vs counting macros 37:03 Building a simple, nourishing plate 40:12 The role of weight training for women 44:29 Knowledge, confidence, and empowerment 50:01 Simplifying healthy eating for real life 56:22 Fasting and metabolic considerations 01:02:55 Eating order and blood sugar control Where to find Healthy Emmie: Social: @healthyemmie To talk to a member of Dr. Jenn's team and learn more about working privately with RHMD, visit: https://jennsimmons.simplero.com/page/377266?kuid=327aca17-5135-44cf-9210-c0b77a56e26d&kref=vOKy0sAiorrK To get your copy of Dr. Jenn's book, The Smart Woman's Guide to Breast Cancer, visit: https://tinyurl.com/SmartWomansBreastCancerGuide To purchase the auria breast cancer screening test go here https://auria.care/ and use the code DRJENN20 for 20% Off. Connect with Dr. Jenn: Website: https://www.jennsimmonsmd.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrJennSimmons Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjennsimmons/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.jennsimmons

In this illuminating episode of Keeping Abreast, Dr. Jenn Simmons sits down with Dr. Taz Bhatia, board-certified physician, integrative medicine pioneer, and champion for women’s health, to explore the intricate world of hormones through every season of a woman’s life. Dr. Taz shares her personal hormonal journey, the gaps she witnessed in conventional medicine, and why personalized, root-cause driven care is essential. Together, she and Dr. Jenn break down how birth control, stress, gut health, and generational patterns shape hormonal balance. They also dive into innovative diagnostic approaches, including the auria test, and discuss why hormones are often misunderstood, and mismanaged, in modern medical systems. This conversation empowers women to understand their physiology, challenge outdated narratives, and take an active role in their health across puberty, fertility, perimenopause, and beyond. In This Episode, You Will Learn: Why hormonal changes form a lifelong continuumHow birth control can mask deeper imbalancesThe role of gut health and liver detoxification in hormone balanceWhy progesterone deficiency is so common todayHow stress and cortisol impact young women’s hormonesThe importance of personalized hormone therapyWhy patients must advocate for their own healthHow hormonal patterns can be passed through generationsWhy breast cancer is often linked to hormone deficiency, not excessHow innovative tools like the auria test may revolutionize screeningEpisode Timeline Highlights: 00:00 Introduction & Dr. Taz’s personal hormonal journey 02:45 Why traditional hormonal treatments fall short 06:02 How experience reshaped her integrative practice 09:06 Birth control concerns & long-term impacts 11:57 How hormonal suppression affects whole-body health 14:58 The value of holistic, root-cause approaches 17:53 Cultural resistance to new medical paradigms 20:57 Innovations in breast cancer screening (auria test) 23:50 Why change is so hard in established medicine 27:00 Understanding hormonal patterns & testing 29:51 The need for comprehensive hormone education 33:39 Hormonal shifts from puberty to menopause 43:53 Personalized hormone therapy done right 01:01:29 Gut health, the microbiome & hormonal balance 01:04:47 Empowering patients to own their health journey Where to find Dr. Taz Bhatia: Website: holplus.co Social: @DrTazMD To talk to a member of Dr. Jenn's team and learn more about working privately with RHMD, visit: https://jennsimmons.simplero.com/page/377266?kuid=327aca17-5135-44cf-9210-c0b77a56e26d&kref=vOKy0sAiorrK To get your copy of Dr. Jenn's book, The Smart Woman's Guide to Breast Cancer, visit: https://tinyurl.com/SmartWomansBreastCancerGuide To purchase the auria breast cancer screening test go here https://auria.care/ and use the code DRJENN20 for 20% Off. Connect with Dr. Jenn: Website: https://www.jennsimmonsmd.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrJennSimmons Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjennsimmons/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.jennsimmons

In this deeply inspiring episode of Keeping Abreast, Dr. Jenn Simmons welcomes Dr. Pete Sulack—chiropractor, functional medicine practitioner, and founder of Unhealthy Anonymous—for a powerful conversation about defying the odds after a terminal cancer diagnosis. Dr. Sulack shares how he turned a death sentence into a journey of hope, healing, and renewal. Through faith, nutrition, and lifestyle transformation, he reclaimed his health and now guides others to do the same. Together, he and Dr. Jenn challenge conventional cancer paradigms, exploring how mindset, personalized nutrition, and spiritual alignment can unlock the body’s innate capacity to heal. This episode invites listeners to rethink what’s possible in cancer recovery and beyond. It’s a story of courage, resilience, and faith in both science and spirit—reminding us that health is not something we outsource but something we build from within. In This Episode, You Will Learn: How Dr. Sulack overcame a terminal brain cancer diagnosisWhy functional medicine focuses on healing the whole person, not just treating diseaseThe crucial role of personalized nutrition in recoveryHow food sensitivities and gut health shape overall wellnessWhy conventional medicine often overlooks the importance of dietThe link between faith, mindset, and the body’s innate ability to healHow to take proactive responsibility for your healthWhy empowerment and education can change the cancer care paradigm💬 If this episode resonates, please rate, review, and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Episode Timeline Highlights: 00:00 Overcoming the Impossible: Dr. Pete Sulack’s Journey  03:11 The Diagnosis: A Life-Changing Event  05:58 Creating a New Path: Functional Medicine and Resilience  09:06 The Role of Diet in Cancer Treatment  12:05 Understanding Food Sensitivities and Gut Health  14:50 The Importance of Personalized Nutrition  18:05 Challenging Conventional Wisdom in Cancer Care  20:51 Proactive Health Management: A Call to Action  31:35 Rethinking Health Responsibility  34:19 Personalized Health Regimens  39:35 The Role of Faith in Healing  43:37 Hope and Healing Perspectives  48:07 Creating a Healing Environment  51:56 Empowering Cancer Care  54:41 Changing the Cancer Care Paradigm Where to find Dr. Pete Sulack: Instagram: @drpetesulack Website: https://drpetesulack.com/ To talk to a member of Dr. Jenn's team and learn more about working privately with RHMD, visit: https://jennsimmons.simplero.com/page/377266?kuid=327aca17-5135-44cf-9210-c0b77a56e26d&kref=vOKy0sAiorrK To get your copy of Dr. Jenn's book, The Smart Woman's Guide to Breast Cancer, visit: https://tinyurl.com/SmartWomansBreastCancerGuide To purchase the auria breast cancer screening test go here https://auria.care/ and use the code DRJENN20 for 20% Off. Connect with Dr. Jenn: Website: https://www.jennsimmonsmd.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrJennSimmons Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjennsimmons/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.jennsimmons

In this enlightening episode of Keeping Abreast, Dr. Jenn Simmons sits down with Dr. Staci Whitman, founder of NoPo Kids Dentistry and a pioneer in functional and holistic oral health. Together they uncover how the mouth serves as the gateway to the body—and why what happens there reverberates through every system. Dr. Whitman explains how chronic disease begins long before symptoms appear and how functional dentistry offers a path toward true prevention. From the oral microbiome and nutrition to mercury fillings, x-ray exposure, and the ongoing fluoride debate, she brings clarity and compassion to topics often overlooked in conventional care. Listeners will gain an understanding of biocompatibility in dental materials, the emotional toll of traditional dentistry, and how early-life oral care can shape a lifetime of wellness. This is an empowering look at how modern medicine and dentistry can finally come together to support whole-body health. 💬 If this episode resonates, please rate, review, and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. In This Episode, You Will Learn: Why chronic disease often begins in the mouthHow root canals can influence systemic healthThe principles of functional and holistic dentistryHow nutrition impacts teeth, gums, and the microbiomeWhat to know about x-rays, mercury fillings, and safe removalWhy biocompatibility testing for dental materials mattersThe crucial role of saliva and the oral microbiomeThe mental-health challenges many dentists faceHow pediatric oral care shapes lifelong wellnessWhy dentistry’s future depends on integration and education Episode Timeline Highlights: 00:00 The Epidemic of Chronic Disease 03:11 Holistic Dentistry: A New Approach 06:12 Root Canals and Systemic Health 08:50 The Shift to Functional Dentistry 12:03 The Role of Nutrition in Oral Health 15:07 Integrating Dentistry and Medicine 18:12 The Importance of Oral Microbiome 21:00 Testing and Monitoring Oral Health 23:59 X-Rays and Radiation Concerns 27:04 Mercury in Dentistry 30:07 Safe Removal of Mercury Fillings 42:16 Biocompatibility in Dentistry 45:07 Mental Health in Dentistry 49:03 The Importance of Pediatric Dentistry 51:05 The Evolution of Oral Health 57:55 The Fluoride Debate 01:10:55 Heroes in Functional Dentistry 01:13:56 Finding Biologic Dentists 01:18:59 The Future of Dental Education Where to find Dr. Staci Whitman: Website: https://doctorstaci.com Social Media: @doctor_staci To talk to a member of Dr. Jenn's team and learn more about working privately with RHMD, visit: https://jennsimmons.simplero.com/page/377266?kuid=327aca17-5135-44cf-9210-c0b77a56e26d&kref=vOKy0sAiorrK To get your copy of Dr. Jenn's book, The Smart Woman's Guide to Breast Cancer, visit: https://tinyurl.com/SmartWomansBreastCancerGuide To purchase the auria breast cancer screening test go here https://auria.care/ and use the code DRJENN20 for 20% Off. Connect with Dr. Jenn: Website: https://www.jennsimmonsmd.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrJennSimmons Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjennsimmons/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.jennsimmons

In this empowering episode of Keeping Abreast, Dr. Jenn Simmons welcomes Dr. Will Cole, a leading functional medicine expert, to explore what it truly means to find the root causes of disease and take back ownership of your health. Dr. Cole shares his path from conventional to functional medicine and how telehealth revolutionized his ability to connect with patients worldwide. Together, he and Dr. Jenn unpack the modern health landscape—from the rise of autoimmune conditions and hormonal imbalances to the challenges of medical politics and social media’s influence on health narratives. The conversation highlights why empowerment, collaboration, and bioindividuality are the future of medicine—and how you can become an active participant in your own healing journey. 💬 If this episode resonates, please rate, review, and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. In This Episode, You Will Learn: How Dr. Will Cole’s journey shaped his functional medicine philosophyWhy understanding root causes is the key to true healingHow telehealth changed the patient–practitioner relationshipThe double-edged nature of social media in modern health discussionsWhy autoimmune and hormonal disorders are rapidly increasingHow politics and profit can distort healthcare prioritiesWhat bioindividuality means for your health choicesHow collaboration across medical disciplines creates better outcomesEpisode Timeline Highlights: 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Will Cole  05:30 The Power of Root-Cause Medicine  11:24 Telehealth & Patient Empowerment  17:04 Challenges in Mystery Illnesses  19:47 Social Media’s Impact on Health Messaging  29:33 Awakening to Health Awareness  34:38 Introducing AURIA: A New Screening Tool  36:53 Questioning the Medical Dogma  44:07 Autoimmunity & Modern Health Crises  52:01 Hormones and Metabolic Health  01:00:16 When Health Meets Politics  01:06:56 The Medical Industrial Complex  01:13:53 Finding Common Ground & Progress  01:17:45 Fasting and Metabolic Flexibility  01:22:34 Making Health Accessible for Everyone Where to find Dr. Will Cole: https://drwillcole.com To talk to a member of Dr. Jenn's team and learn more about working privately with RHMD, visit: https://jennsimmons.simplero.com/page/377266?kuid=327aca17-5135-44cf-9210-c0b77a56e26d&kref=vOKy0sAiorrK To get your copy of Dr. Jenn's book, The Smart Woman's Guide to Breast Cancer, visit: https://tinyurl.com/SmartWomansBreastCancerGuide To purchase the auria breast cancer screening test go here https://auria.care/ and use the code DRJENN20 for 20% Off. Connect with Dr. Jenn: Website: https://www.jennsimmonsmd.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrJennSimmons Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjennsimmons/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.jennsimmons