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MEET THE GUEST Deanna Latson is a professional speaker who has spoken at over 800 universities, appeared on live TV, and worked with countless corporate audiences. She built her career making complicated topics simple, engaging, and unforgettable from health and leadership to business and personal growth. She later brought that same skill into the corporate world, becoming a global product and marketing executive and helping scale companies in health, wellness, skincare, supplements, and direct selling. WHAT WE TALK ABOUT Most women get “the talk” about periods at 12, but no one explains perimenopause or menopause.About 6,000 women enter menopause every day, and many go through it in silence.Only five other species go through menopause, all of them whales, including killer whales, belugas and narwhals.Symptoms go far beyond hot flashes: brain fog, poor sleep, bloating, thinning hair and skin, joint pain and irritability.Falling estrogen also affects the heart and raises the risk of bladder infections that can spread to the kidneys.The “3 a.m. club”: hormone-driven sleep disruption that worsens mood, digestion and weight gain.Perimenopause can start in your 30s, and doctors often miss early changes in digestion, sleep, skin and energy.Get your hormones tested, then retest a few months later, since levels fluctuate.This year’s World Menopause Day theme is midlife pain, because lower estrogen changes how we feel pain in our joints and bones.Deanna works in the field and still didn’t connect her sudden finger pain to her hormones.Anxiety and loss of confidence are common, fueled by a culture that equates menopause with getting old.Her advice to her 35-year-old self: learn the symptoms early and be proactive, not reactive.Beyond Team HRT and Team Natural, she champions “Team Informed Choice.”Interview your OB-GYN. Many aren’t trained in menopause, and it’s okay to switch doctors.Black cohosh and red clover started as folk remedies and now have clinical research behind them.She+ is a vegan jelly stick designed to be a treat, so it gets taken instead of joining the “supplement morgue.”In Immunotec’s consumer trial, over 90% were satisfied and about 78% reported better sleep and mood.Standardized herbal extracts cost more but deliver the same level of active compounds every time, and so more consistent results.In killer whale pods, females past menopause become the leaders, a reminder that this stage brings wisdom and power. EPISODE RESOURCES  Immunotec The makers of She+, a plant-based jelly stick that supports women through perimenopause and menopause. https://www.immunotec.com/ CONNECT WITH THE GUEST Website: https://www.immunotec.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/immunotec https://www.instagram.com/deannalatson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Immunotec YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/immunotec KEYWORDS menopause, perimenopause, menopause symptoms, World Menopause Day, hot flashes, brain fog, menopause sleep, hormone health, estrogen, HRT, black cohosh, red clover, natural menopause relief, She+, Immunotec, women’s health, midlife, joint pain, supplements

MEET THE GUEST Andrew Salisbury, founder and CEO of Purity Coffee, believes healthier coffee is key to wellness, performance, and longevity. Drawing on his experience, he created a meticulous process to make the healthiest coffee. Purity Coffee bridges the gap between coffee's benefits and public perception, advocating for its role in reducing health risks and promoting longevity. WHAT WE TALK ABOUT Andrew Salisbury's shift from software and call centers in Latin America to coffee, sparked by his wife's health struggles and disagreements over whether coffee helped or hurt her.A dinner with two Vanderbilt Institute of Coffee Studies professors that surfaced coffee's health benefits, including antioxidants and links to lower rates of fatty liver, cirrhosis, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and Alzheimer's.164 million Americans drink coffee daily, largely unaware of its potential health upside.Coffee's dual nature: beneficial compounds to maximize, harmful contaminants to avoid.Heavy pesticide use in farming, including glyphosate and disulfin, absorbed directly into the cherry and seed.Antioxidant levels fluctuate significantly by harvest, region, and farming practice.Commodity pricing pays farmers by volume, removing incentive to grow for health benefits.Mycotoxin contamination leaves beans looking normal, detectable only through lab testing.Only very dark roasts destroy mycotoxins, but darkness also strips out antioxidants.Contamination testing costs a few hundred dollars per container, yet almost no company does it.Industrial mass-picking mixes ripe and spoiled cherries; mold spreads through a batch like one moldy strawberry infecting a container.Some processors spray coffee with water to add weight before shipping, pushing moisture toward legal limits and encouraging mold.Only an estimated 20-30% of global coffee is hand-picked to reduce contamination risk.Jitters, acid reflux, and nausea often stem from contaminants in low-quality coffee, not caffeine itself.Europe enforces stricter mycotoxin limits than the U.S., so substandard lots get redirected to American buyers.An ancient Incan biochar method, paired with microlending to farmers, raises chlorogenic acid levels through soil regeneration.High-altitude, shade-grown Arabica outperforms lowland Robusta in antioxidants as the plant works harder for sunlight.Roast curve chemistry balances acrylamide risk in light roasts against PAH risk in dark roasts while preserving antioxidants.Lab partnerships in Portugal and Brazil map roast curves to retain chlorogenic acids without harmful byproducts.An estimated 1-2% of coffee industry-wide is tested for mycotoxins, pesticides, and heavy metals.The myth that coffee is inherently unhealthy traces to mid-century studies that failed to separate coffee drinking from smoking and heavy drinking. EPISODE RESOURCES  Purity Coffee Organic, hand picked coffee lab tested for mold, mycotoxins, and heavy metals. Antioxidant focused roasting. Save 20% first order, code TRAILTOHEALTH. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/PurityCoffee Portland Syrup Small batch syrup made with simple, clean ingredients. A natural way to sweeten coffee. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/portlandsyrups Breville Brewing equipment for home baristas who care about precision as much as bean quality. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Breville Almond Cow Make plant milk at home without additives or fillers. A clean pairing for coffee drinkers. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH to save 10%. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/AlmondCow Aquasana Clean filtered water for brewing, free of contaminants that affect taste and quality. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/aquasana CONNECT WITH THE GUEST Website: http://puritycoffee.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/purity_coffee Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mypuritycoffee TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@puritycoffee KEYWORDS coffee, mold, mycotoxins, antioxidants, chlorogenic acid, clean coffee

MEET THE GUEST Dr. Beth Westie is a Functional Medicine Practitioner, chiropractor, and best-selling author dedicated to women's hormone health. After her own struggle with ovarian cysts led her beyond birth control to nutrition-based healing, she created the Eat for Your Cycle™ Method. Author of The Female Fat Solution and The Female Menopause Solution, and host of The Female Health Solution Podcast, she's helped thousands of women balance their hormones naturally through her Hormone Foundations Program and speaking engagements. WHAT WE TALK ABOUT - Dr. Beth Westie's background: grew up on a Minnesota goat farm, former athlete, licensed in acupuncture/Chinese medicine - Her personal health story: recurring ovarian cysts after her third child, dismissed by conventional medicine, resolved through hormone regulation via Eastern medicine - Core topic: the "3 AM wake up" and what drives it - Cortisol's role: normal daily rhythm vs. chronic stress raising nighttime cortisol and triggering alertness - Blood sugar dips around 2-3 AM causing adrenaline surges that jolt people awake - Cortisol awakening response and the risk of it spiking too high, then crashing later in the day - Estrogen/progesterone balance and how luteal-phase (weeks 3-4) progesterone drops affect GABA receptors and sleep depth - Personal example of strength fluctuating across her cycle due to hormonal shifts - Using wearables to track sleep and heart rate patterns tied to cycle phases - The Dutch test (dried urine hormone panel) for assessing hormones, cortisol, neurotransmitters, and nutrients - Blood testing for glucose, insulin, and A1C, plus continuous glucose monitors - Thyroid function (TSH, T4, T3, antibodies) and its link to metabolism, detox, and sleep - Chinese medicine organ clock, with 1-3 AM linked to liver detoxification of hormones - Chronic stress accumulation ("rocks in a backpack" analogy) and women's tendency to self-neglect - Resting heart rate benchmarks (under 70 bpm) and how it varies by cycle phase - Comparing biometric data month-to-month (same cycle day) rather than day-to-day - Gut health's impact on sleep: poor digestive motility causing overnight bloating and discomfort - Histamine's connection to hormones: overproduction/poor clearance driving estrogen up in a feedback loop - Iron/ferritin deficiency as a common nutrient gap affecting overall function - Personalized, test-based treatment approach rather than one-size-fits-all protocols - Melatonin and other sleep aids often being the wrong fix when melatonin levels are already sufficient EPISODE RESOURCES Oura RingTracks sleep, heart rate, and HRV overnight to show how your cycle affects your rest. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/OuraRing Function Health Get lab-tested insight into your thyroid, hormones, blood sugar, and nutrient levels. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/FunctionHealth Swanwick Block blue light in the evening to support your natural melatonin and wind down easier. 15% off with code TRAILTOHEALTH. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/swanwick Thorne Clinical-grade iron and magnesium to help fill common nutrient gaps that impact energy, hormones, and sleep. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Thorne BiOptimizers Support digestion and gut motility to ease overnight bloating. Save 10% with code TRAILTOHEALTH. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/biooptimizer CONNECT WITH THE GUEST Website: http://drbethwestie.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drbethwestie Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drbethwestie TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drbethwestie YouTube: www.youtube.com/@drbethwestie.com KEYWORDS 3am wake up, insomnia, cortisol, blood sugar, hormones, progesterone, estrogen dominance, perimenopause sleep, thyroid, liver detox, histamine, gut health, Dutch test, sleep hormones, women's health

MEET THE GUEST Dr. Jill Carnahan, Your Functional Medicine Expert®, is dually board-certified and founder of Flatiron Functional Medicine. A survivor of breast cancer, Crohn's, and toxic mold illness, she uncovers root causes through advanced testing and personalized care. Her bestselling memoir Unexpected and documentary Doctor/Patient share her journey. A sought-after speaker, she inspires audiences with science-backed insight, authenticity, and humor. WHAT WE TALK ABOUT Bring dust sample kits (ERMI-style, e.g. Immunolytics) on every showing to test surfaces before making an offer.Learn visual red flags: warped floorboards, stained ceilings/corners, bathroom tile growth, and stucco type/installation quality.Keep a trusted mold inspector on call to do informal walkthroughs before an offer is made.Ask sellers pointed questions (dishwasher leaks, shower leaks, etc.); most were surprisingly honest.She toured 40+ homes; about 80% had significant mold, even in Colorado's dry climate and in expensive, newer homes.Her real question wasn't "is there mold" but "where is it, how fixable, and what will it cost."One stucco issue quoted at $250,000+ was a dealbreaker; minor sink/window-well leaks were manageable and budgeted in.She went under contract five times, backing out four times after formal inspections revealed major issues.Deal-breakers: foundational problems, roof/siding/stucco-wide water intrusion, and oddities like an indoor jacuzzi, versus minor, containable issues like a single leaky sink.Sellers sometimes pushed back hard on repair-cost requests, so having a knowledgeable realtor was essential.New homes aren't automatically safer: poor drywall/tile installation and off-gassing (formaldehyde, granite) are common, while very old homes carry decades of leak history.Her "sweet spot": homes roughly 8 to 15 years old.Crawl spaces and long-term single-owners with strong maintenance records are strong positive signals.Filing a legitimate mold claim on a past condo made it harder to get new homeowners insurance.Testing approach: dust (ERMI-style) plus air samples plus bulk/swab samples on visible growth; toilets and wax seals are common failure points worth replacing preemptively.In Colorado, buyers can exit contracts via "inspection objection" without disclosing mold specifically; she chose whether to share findings with sellers as a courtesy.Basements/window wells need proper stone (not mulch) and drainage to prevent water intrusion.Post-purchase upgrades: whole-home water filtration, Moen Flo smart shutoff with leak sensors at every fixture, and multiple air filtration units.Her advice: budget and stage fixes over time (water/roof/siding first) rather than trying to remediate everything at once. EPISODE RESOURCES  AirDoctor Hospital-grade purifier that traps mold spores, allergens & VOCs for cleaner, healthier indoor air. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/AirDoctor Immunolytics Order at-home testing for mold in your home. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Immunolytics Aquasana Whole-home water filtration that removes contaminants for cleaner, safer water straight from every tap. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/aquasana Branch Basics Non-toxic cleaning products, perfect for a mold-safe move-in deep clean. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 15% off. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/BranchBasics CONNECT WITH THE GUEST Website: https://www.jillcarnahan.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjillcarnahan Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FlatironFunctionalMedicine YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrJillCarnahan KEYWORDS mold-free home, house hunting mold, ERMI dust test, mold inspection, water damage, home buying tips, air purifier, water filtration

MEET THE GUEST Jamie Goldman, MS, CN, NBC-HWC is a Health Coach at Viome and a member of the company's Precision Nutrition Science team. Jamie combines expertise in functional medicine, nutrition science, and health coaching to help people translate complex health data into practical, sustainable lifestyle changes. WHAT WE TALK ABOUT Viome's at-home test kit: collect a sample, send to the lab, get a readout on gut and body-system function.Why Viome analyzes RNA, not DNA or blood biomarkers: RNA reflects active gene expression, not static genetic code.Stool RNA analysis reveals which gut microbes are present and what they're doing (e.g., methane gas production).Food recommendations target specific microbial activities: reducing trigger foods, adding foods that counter them.Why retesting every 4 to 6 months is recommended, giving enough time to see real change without overshooting.Supplements beyond food: vitamins, minerals, a 300+ ingredient plant extract library, probiotics, and prebiotic fibers.Why "gut-healthy" foods like yogurt and kombucha aren't universal (methane production, FODMAP sensitivity, sugar content).Viome users range from biohackers optimizing longevity to people with chronic, unexplained gut symptoms.The gut-brain axis: brain fog, low mood, fatigue, and poor cognitive clarity as signs of gut dysbiosis.Why generic probiotics are a gamble, versus matching strains to an individual's actual gut profile.A "healthy" microbiome means richness and diversity, like an old-growth forest versus an overgrown clear-cut.How antibiotics wipe out microbial diversity, and how to protect gut health during and after a course.Everyday gut disruptors: alcohol, sedentary behavior, chronic stress, and environmental toxins.Allergies (immune-driven, usually permanent), sensitivities (often from leaky gut, can resolve), and intolerances (genetic) differ.Emerging research: the estrobolome and estrogen metabolism, and the microbiome's link to bone density.Debunking carnivore: may ease GI symptoms short term but removing fiber isn't sustainable long term.Debunking juice cleanses: they strip fiber and effectively starve gut microbes.Best fiber sources: nuts, seeds, legumes, mushrooms, oats, hardier vegetables, and fruit.Prebiotic fiber types (FOS, PHGG) and why food-based fiber should come first, not just supplements.Starting advice: read ingredient labels, cut processed additives, and diversify diet with varied produce. EPISODE RESOURCES  Viome Personalized gut health testing that analyzes your microbiome's RNA, with tailored food and supplement guidance. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/viome Bulletproof Innerfuel plant-based prebiotic fiber powder that feeds good gut bacteria. Save 20% with code TRAILTOHEALTH20. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/bulletproof Breadsrsly Naturally fermented, gluten-free sourdough breads and crackers. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH and save 15%. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/BreadSRSLY Thrive Market Shop curated low-FODMAP and specialty diet groceries, making gut-friendly eating easier to find and afford. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/ThriveMarket Four Sigmatic Mushroom-powered coffees, elixirs, and supplements packed with beta-glucan fiber for gut support. 20% off with code ERIKA83918. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/foursigmatic CONNECT WITH THE GUEST Website: http://www.viome.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viome/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/viome KEYWORDS Gut health, microbiome, RNA testing, prebiotics, probiotics, fiber, dysbiosis

MEET THE GUEST Dr. Emily Kostelnik is a Clinical Health Psychologist specializing in vestibular disorders who brings both professional expertise and personal lived experience to her work. She is the founder of two organizations: Rooted Behavioral Education offers virtual behavioral health courses and coaching for those with chronic dizziness and The Vestibular Psychologist is private practice providing individual therapy and professional consultation to help clients reclaim a full and meaningful life. WHAT WE TALK ABOUT Definition of the vestibular system, the inner ear's balance mechanism, working with vision and proprioception.Common inner-ear causes: BPPV (loose ear crystals) and Meniere's disease.Central/neurological causes: vestibular migraine and persistent postural perceptual dizziness (PPPD).Vestibular migraine is the most common cause of dizziness in women under 60, often without head pain.Motion sickness in childhood as a possible early marker of vestibular migraine.Why diagnosis is hard: it falls between ENT and neurology specialties.Right specialists to see: otologist/neurotologist, balance-focused neurologist, headache specialist, or vestibular physical therapist.Ruling out other causes first (anemia, cardiac issues) before a vestibular diagnosis.Symptoms often appear "suddenly" but are usually building for a long time (the "final straw" concept).Root causes: nervous system dysregulation, toxic load, gut dysfunction, liver/bile issues.Overlap with MCAS, POTS, hypermobility, and neurodivergence (ADHD/autism).Mold exposure and mycotoxins as a major contributor to inflammation and vestibular symptoms.Nutrient deficiencies commonly seen (iron, vitamin D, B vitamins) in patients.Infections like Lyme disease, H. pylori, and candida as possible triggers.Histamine and mast cell activation's role in vestibular symptoms, and use of antihistamines/low-histamine diets.Ongoing research into hypermobility, connective tissue disorders, and genetic pathway variants in vestibular migraine.Prevalence: vestibular migraine affects about 1 to 2% of the population; BPPV affects about 7%. It's more common in women, with a research funding gap.Treatment options ranging from simple (repositioning maneuvers for BPPV) to complex (preventive medications, supplements, physical therapy, psychotherapy, root-cause approaches).Advice for listeners: start with a primary care doctor or vestibular physical therapist; hope lies in CGRP medications and inflammation-focused research. EPISODE RESOURCES  Viome Uncover the gut-histamine connection behind your dizziness with an at-home test. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/viome Thorne Supplements including Quercetin Phytosome, a highly absorbable antioxidant that helps regulate histamine release. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Thorne Pulsetto A wearable vagus nerve stimulator that calms your nervous system in minutes. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Pulsetto Earthing Grounding products that calm nervous system dysregulation and reduce inflammation. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/earthing Tick Tock Repellent Natural tick protection to help prevent Lyme disease and its related complications. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/ticktocknaturals CONNECT WITH THE GUEST Website: https://www.rootedbehavioraleducation.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dremilykostelnik Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dremilykostelnik TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/search?q=%40dremilykostelnik&t=1785699859015 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rootedbehavioraleducation KEYWORDS vestibular disorder, vertigo causes, chronic dizziness, vestibular migraine, BPPV treatment, MCAS symptoms, histamine intolerance, mold toxicity, nervous system dysregulation, Lyme disease dizziness

MEET THE GUEST Dr. Torrie Thompson is a functional wellness practitioner, educator, and founder of Meraki Wellness Center. Known for her root-cause approach, she helps clients uncover hidden factors that may be impacting their health, including mold exposure, environmental toxins, heavy metals, gut dysfunction, and other overlooked stressors. After overcoming her own decade-long health journey as a young adult, Dr. Torrie made it her mission to help others find answers when conventional approaches have fallen short. Through advanced testing, she has helped thousands of clients pinpoint potential root causes of their health challenges so they can finally take control of their health. WHAT WE TALK ABOUT Meraki Wellness Center's specialties: mold, Lyme, parasites, autoimmune disease, environmental toxins"Test, don't guess" approach to root-cause diagnosisStandard lab panel: organic acids, mycotoxins, environmental toxins, heavy metals, stool testingTreatment sequencing: mold/mycotoxins, then gut, then heavy metals/environmental toxinsUrine vs. blood testing for mycotoxinsProvocation methods before mycotoxin testing (exercise, sauna, lymphatic massage)Old or past mold exposure as a hidden, ongoing source of illnessFood-based mycotoxins in peanuts, grains, and coffeeRising environmental toxin loads seen in testing, including in childrenWhy a "clean" current lifestyle doesn't clear past toxic exposureDetox tools: binders, sauna, lymphatic support, hydration, inflammation reductionPrevalence of parasites in chronic illness, including in the USDrainage pathways: lymphatic system, liver, kidneys, gutBowel movements and sweating as prerequisites for detoxLong COVID's overlap with tick-borne illness and reactivated viruses (EBV, CMV)Rising rates of mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS)Advanced testing: organic acids (OATs), neural zoomers, stealth infection panelsGrowing mainstream awareness of mold and toxin-related illness via social mediaAdvice for starting a health journey: choosing a practitioner, using AI as a supplement, retesting to track progress EPISODE RESOURCES  Higher Dose Infrared sauna blankets, PEMF mats & red light tools to support detox, circulation, and everyday recovery. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/HigherDose AquaTru Countertop reverse osmosis water filters that remove lead, PFAS, and chlorine. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/aquatru AirDoctor HEPA air purifiers designed to capture mold spores, VOCs, and ultrafine particles. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/aquatru DesBio Homeopathic drainage remedies to support the liver, lymphatic system, and detox pathways. Use this link for 5% off. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/DesBio Quicksilver Liposomal binders and liver-support formulas built to support detox and drainage pathways. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 15% off. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/QuicksilverScientific ImmunoLytics At-home mold testing kits with certified lab analysis, helping identify hidden indoor mold exposure. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Immunolytics CONNECT WITH THE GUEST Website: https://www.drtorriethompson.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drtorriethompson TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/search?q=%40drtorriethompson&t=1785697467862 KEYWORDS mold toxicity symptoms, mycotoxin testing, Lyme disease treatment, chronic illness root cause, environmental toxin detox, mast cell activation syndrome, parasite cleanse, liver detox support, lymphatic drainage, functional medicine practitioner, heavy metal detox, long COVID recovery

MEET THE GUEST Jordan Glenn is the Head of Science at SuppCo, the app that personalizes and optimizes supplement routines. He holds a PhD in Exercise Physiology with a focus on nutrition, aging, and behavioral health, and has authored more than 100 peer-reviewed publications. As a scientist and researcher specializing in nutrition, supplements, and human health, Jordan is dedicated to translating complex science into practical, evidence-based guidance. His mission is to empower individuals with the clarity and confidence needed to make informed decisions about their supplement routines. WHAT WE TALK ABOUT How the supplement industry has evolved from single ingredients to niche, hyper-specific productsSuppCo's mission to help consumers navigate supplement choicesSuppCo's "Trust Score", rating brands on 30+ manufacturing attributesThird-party lab testing results on popular supplements bought onlineCreatine gummies found to be severely underdosed or missing active ingredientLack of consistent regulatory testing after a product's initial approval sampleHow Amazon's "golden sample" testing loophole allows inconsistent product qualityWhy gummies struggle with heat- and moisture-sensitive ingredients like probioticsDosing limitations of gummies (e.g., needing many gummies for a full creatine or omega-3 doseBuying from official brand storefronts vs. third-party Amazon sellersHow absorption varies by form factor (capsules, powders, liquids, soft gels)Why probiotics need enteric-coated capsules to survive stomach acidWhy fat-soluble nutrients (vitamin D, omega-3) are best delivered in fat-based formatsWhy creatine powder is considered the most stable, effective formatRisks of stacking too many supplements without understanding interactionsDownsides of proprietary multivitamin blends with hidden ingredient amountsRecommended "non-negotiable" starter stack: creatine, vitamin D3/K2, and magnesiumThe importance of knowing your specific reason for taking any supplementWhich supplements can be taken indefinitely vs. those that should be cycled (e.g., berberine)Common supplement myths debunked (creatine as a gym-only supplement, price equals quality, more supplements equals better health, electrolyte necessity)The role of the placebo effect in perceived supplement benefitsWhere supplement regulation is headed and the growing role of consumer awareness EPISODE RESOURCES  SuppCo Scan your supplements in the app, get a trust score for every product, and finally know what you are actually taking. https://supp.co/ Thorne Third-party tested creatine, magnesium and D3/K2, the trusted non-negotiable for your daily supplement stack. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Thorne Function Health Get lab tested and know exactly which nutrients you are actually deficient in before building a supplement stack. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/FunctionHealth BiOptimizers Magnesium Breakthrough covers the full spectrum most people are lacking. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 10% off. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/biooptimizer Promix Pure, lab tested creatine powder in the stable, effective format, easy to mix into water or coffee daily. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 10% off. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/PromixNutrition Rho Nutrition Clean, third party tested creatine to support energy, muscle and long term brain health. Get 15% off your first order with code TRAILTOHEALTH. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/RhoNutrition CONNECT WITH THE GUEST Website: http://supp.co/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joinsuppco TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@joinsuppco YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEB9zpr6dWBOOjQ868Y6yJQ KEYWORDS supplement quality testing, best creatine powder, creatine vs gummies, magnesium glycinate benefits, vitamin D3 K2 supplement, third party tested supplements, SUPCO trust score, supplement myths, how to choose supplements, probiotic absorption, best supplement stack, clean label supplements

MEET THE GUEST Jennifer is a Yoga, Pilates, Meditation & Breathwork teacher who specialises in fertility & women’s health. During a long & difficult fertility journey of her own, Jennifer eventually found the practice of Fertility Yoga. This practice was able to ease her anxiety while TTC, relieve chronic insomnia, re-balance a thyroid condition…and eventually it helped her to fall pregnant naturally. She now runs an online business, Element Pilates & Yoga, helping women all over the world to overcome fertility challenges & find their way to motherhood. She’s the host of the Your Journey to Fertility Podcast and the creator of the In Your Element Fertility Yoga Program. WHAT WE TALK ABOUT How Jennifer's fertility journey began with an early menopause misdiagnosis at 34First round of IVF and the odds of a single embryo surviving to birthCycle returning naturally after breastfeeding, and a second early menopause diagnosis reversalNew fertility diagnoses at 37, including thyroid issues and blocked fallopian tubesMale factor fertility issues and why men are often undertestedSecondary infertility and the emotional toll of trying for a second childLosing embryos during a COVID lockdown clinic closureDiscovering fertility yoga during lockdown and its early effects on sleep and thyroid healthNatural pregnancy after IVF was said to be unlikely, and the loss that followedRetraining as a yoga teacher and specializing in fertility workInsulin resistance and metabolic conditions as fertility disruptorsCortisol and stress as drivers of menstrual cycle irregularitiesHow fertility yoga differs from a regular yoga practiceMatching yoga practices to each phase of the menstrual cycleNervous system regulation and its role in fertility and conceptionWhy the nervous system can't distinguish emotional stress from physical dangerMindset strategies for navigating the highs and lows of a fertility journeySetting boundaries around triggering events like baby showersCo-regulation and building a support network during a fertility journeyFirst steps to take when starting a fertility journey, including early testing EPISODE RESOURCES  Organifi Stress and sleep support supplements to help calm your nervous system and improve rest. Receive 20% off with code TRAILTOHEALTH. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Organifi Oura Ring Get a clearer picture of your sleep, stress, and cycle health, with insights made just for you on your fertility journey. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/OuraRing Thorne Prenatal vitamins to help you prepare for and support a healthy pregnancy. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Thorne Somavedic Support deeper, more restful sleep with a device designed to help calm your environment and your body. Save 10% with code TRAILTOHEALTH. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/somavedic Primal Trust Learn to calm your nervous system with guided meditations and tools built to support you on your fertility journey. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/PrimalTrust CONNECT WITH THE GUEST Website: https://www.elementpilatesyoga.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jen.elementpilatesyoga Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086747915761 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@elementpilatesyoga KEYWORDS fertility yoga, nervous system regulation, secondary infertility, IVF, male factor fertility, thyroid health, cortisol and stress, ovulation tracking, prenatal vitamins, sleep support, mindset coaching, embryo transfer, menstrual cycle health, co-regulation, fertility support community

MEET THE GUEST Dr. Sirisha Vadali is a board-certified cardiologist, advanced lipidologist, and leading voice in cardiometabolic health, prevention, and women’s heart health. As Program Director of HonorHealth’s Cardiometabolic Program, she specializes in helping patients reduce cardiovascular risk before life-threatening events occur through a blend of advanced medicine, metabolic health, lifestyle changes, and prevention-focused care. Known for making complex health topics approachable, Dr. Vadali is passionate about reshaping conversations around GLP-1s, women’s cardiovascular health, stress reduction, and longevity. Having treated over 100,000 patients, she believes prevention is the future of medicine and that sustainable lifestyle changes can transform long-term heart health. WHAT WE TALK ABOUT Cardiologists often niche into advanced lipidology because most doctors don't have time to check those specific labsMore patients are now seeking preventative cardiac care, not just treatment after symptoms appearHeart health screening age depends on risk profile: as early as 18 with family history, otherwise 30 to 50High cholesterol is the top modifiable risk factor for heart attack, according to the Interheart StudyThyroid issues, hormonal shifts, pregnancy, menopause, and low vitamin D can all raise cholesterolCholesterol comes from both diet and genetics, roughly 50-50 for most peopleThe brain and heart synthesize their own cholesterol independent of blood levels"Normal" cholesterol targets vary by individual risk profile rather than a fixed numberWomen are underrepresented in cardiovascular studies despite heart disease being their top killerHormonal changes can mask heart symptoms and contribute to cardiac events in womenHeart attacks can occur at any age; genetic factors like Lp(a) matter more than age aloneArterial plaque, once formed, cannot be removed, only stabilized through lifestyle and treatmentPlaque rupture, not just blockage, is a major and unpredictable cause of heart attacksRecent advances include transcatheter valve replacement, robotic bypass surgery, and leadless pacemakersVisceral fat is dangerous even in thin people and silently damages arteriesGLP-1 medications are reshaping cardiometabolic care by reducing visceral fat and inflammationAFib is common and under-diagnosed, with stroke risk as its main dangerWearables like Apple Watch are helping detect AFib earlier, with ablation as a treatment optionCoronary artery calcium scoring is described as the most powerful test for visualizing heart plaqueConsistent exercise, blood pressure screening, and managing stress are key habits seen in heart-healthy older patients EPISODE RESOURCES  Nikki Catch AFib before it catches you. Track your heart rhythm 24/7 with this wearable. Save 10% with code TRAILTOHEALTH. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Nikki Heart and Soil Supplements Support your heart with nutrient-dense whole food supplements built for cardiovascular health. Save 10% with code TRAILTOHEALTH. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/HeartandSoil Vital Choice Seafood Wild-caught seafood packed with omega-3s to support heart health and fight inflammation. Save 5% on your first order with code 1VCAF5. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/VitalChoiceSeafood Brightland Cold-pressed, heart-healthy olive oil to support inflammation and cardiovascular wellness, straight from the source. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Brightland Oura Ring Track your sleep, stress, and recovery to keep your heart health and hormones in balance. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/OuraRing CONNECT WITH THE GUEST Website: https://www.sirishavadali.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vadalimd Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sirisha.vadali KEYWORDS heart health, cardiovascular disease, cholesterol, visceral fat, AFib, GLP-1, coronary calcium score, women's heart health, cardiometabolic health, blood pressure, plaque buildup

MEET THE GUEST Dr. Sutton is passionate about identifying the root causes of chronic health problems and developed a deep interest in iron disorders after her husband suffered severe complications from previously undiagnosed hereditary hemochromatosis, including liver disease and a pituitary tumor. Living with Crohn's disease and iron deficiency anemia herself, she has experienced both sides of iron dysregulation firsthand. In her book and workshop, The Iron Curse, Dr. Sutton explores the full spectrum of iron imbalance, from overload to deficiency anemia, covering underlying causes, contributing factors, and evidence-based natural strategies that may help support healthier iron regulation and overall wellness. WHAT WE TALK ABOUT How undiagnosed hemochromatosis can cause liver damage and pituitary tumorsWide range of iron overload symptoms, from fatigue to joint painOrgans most affected by excess iron: liver, heart, pancreas, gonads, thyroid, brainHemochromatosis prevalence and high rate of underdiagnosisCarrier myth debunked, one gene still carries real riskFerritin and iron saturation as key diagnostic markersTarget ferritin ranges for people with a hemochromatosis geneBlood removal and donation as first-line treatmentDiet shifts that lower iron, including calcium-rich foodsSupplements that help chelate iron: curcumin, alpha lipoic acid, EGCG, silymarinQuercetin and berberine for lowering iron absorptionRealistic timelines for bringing iron levels downThree hemochromatosis genes explained, heavyweight, middleweight, lightweightHow iron levels shift with age and gender across a lifetimeRecommended testing frequency for people with a hemochromatosis geneCeliac disease connection to hemochromatosis geneticsEvolutionary reasons hemochromatosis and celiac genes persist in the population EPISODE RESOURCES  Thrive Market Gluten-free pantry staples delivered to your door, making it easier to stock a celiac-friendly kitchen. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/ThriveMarket Quicksilver Milk thistle helps your body bind and clear excess iron while supporting liver health. Save 15% with code TRAILTOHEALTH. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/QuicksilverScientific Caraway Non-toxic cookware and cutting boards help prevent cross-contamination in a celiac-safe kitchen. Save 10% with code TRAILTOHEALTH10. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/CarawayCookware BiOptimizers Berberine supplements help lower iron absorption to support healthy iron levels. Save 10% with code TRAILTOHEALTH. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/biooptimizer Primal Kitchen Gluten-free snacks and liver support supplements, all in one place. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 10% off. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/PrimalKitchen CONNECT WITH THE GUEST Website: http://drchristysutton.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drchristysutton Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drchristysutton YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drchristysutton KEYWORDS hereditary hemochromatosis, iron overload, iron deficiency anemia, ferritin levels, iron saturation test, celiac disease, gluten-free diet, liver support, milk thistle, berberine, curcumin, alpha lipoic acid, genetic testing, carrier myth, blood donation, chelation supplements, autoimmune disease, iron chelation

MEET THE GUEST Dr. Cory Tichauer is a board-certified Naturopathic Doctor with 22 years of experience in complex chronic illness and tick-borne infections at Bear Creek Naturopathic Clinic in southern Oregon. A longtime ILADS member and former board director, he also belongs to ISEAI, the ISMCAS, and the Ehlers-Danlos Society. Dr. Cory uses functional medicine, naturopathic therapies, individualized pharmaceuticals, and advanced diagnostics to remove obstacles to health and support the body's self-repair mechanisms. WHAT WE TALK ABOUT Dr. Tichauer's background as a naturopathic physician and why he chose that path over conventional medicineHow chronic infection, particularly tick-borne illness, emerged as a central focus of his clinical practiceHis involvement with ILADS and the role of the organization in advancing provider educationWhy current two-tiered Lyme testing (ELISA + immunoblot) misses a large percentage of chronic casesThe use of the B31 lab strain in standard testing and how it contributes to false negativesHow immune suppression, biofilm formation, and the intracellular nature of Borrelia reduce antibody productionHow lab threshold cutoffs are calibrated for acute care, not chronic illnessThe difference between qualitative and quantitative ELISA results, and why specific band markers matterJavora Health: what it is, how it was created, and its mission to increase access to quality Lyme testingThe TASO home blood collection kit: how it works, why it's well-tolerated, and how samples are processedArmin Labs: what makes it one of the most validated Lyme testing labs, including CAP certification and German standardsThe TickPlex panel and the scope of co-infections, chronic viral infections, and parasites it can screen forRound body (persister form) Lyme testing and why up to two-thirds of chronic Lyme patients test negative on standard ELISAThe LymEspot (ELISpot/lymphocyte transformation test): how T-cell testing can detect active infection within 10 to 14 days of exposureSerial testing as a tool to track treatment progress, including why an initial antibody increase after treatment can be a positive signThe three-pillar natural support protocol: immune upregulation, biofilm disruption, and antimicrobial herbsJavora's symptom-tracking app, online quiz for test selection, and Dr. Tichauer's weekly open office hoursThe future of Lyme testing: the need for consensus between functional and conventional medicine, and what improved direct-organism testing could look like EPISODE RESOURCES  Jivora Get accurate tick-borne illness testing to support earlier detection and personalized care. https://jivora.co/pages/ambassador-program Desbio Supplements that support chronic illness recovery. Use our link for 5% off. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/DesBio Tick Mitt Stop Lyme before it happens with a chemical-free tick-removing mitt. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 10% off. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/tickmitt Tick Tock Stay safe from tick-borne illness with natural tick and mosquito repellents.  https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/ticktocknaturals NIKKI Support your holistic Lyme routine with a wearable wellness device. Receive 10% off using code TRAILTOHEALTH. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Nikki CONNECT WITH THE GUEST Website: http://jivorahealth.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jivorahealth Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jivorahealth KEYWORDS Lyme disease testing, home Lyme test, tick-borne illness, chronic Lyme, Borrelia testing, Armin Labs, co-infection testing, Lyme literate doctor, naturopathic Lyme treatment, ILADS, Javora Health

MEET THE GUEST Dr. Chris Renna, DO is one of the nation's foremost leaders in preventive and longevity medicine and the founder of LifeSpan Medicine, established in 1992, with flagship clinics in Santa Monica, Miami, and Dallas. Board-certified in family medicine and a cum laude graduate of the University of North Texas Health Science Center, he realized early that traditional medical training was designed to treat disease, not create health. He draws from advanced diagnostics, functional medicine, and deep clinical insight to craft personalized protocols for patients who have often tried everything else. He is the author of The End of Pain and Balance Your Brain, Balance Your Life, has presented at the Global Wellness Summit, and has been featured in outlets ranging from goop to The Atlantic. WHAT WE TALK ABOUT Dr. Renna's pivot from disease treatment to preventive medicine after five years in conventional practiceSelf-education in diet, exercise physiology, sleep science, and motivational psychology during the 1980sThe founding of LifeSpan Medicine in 1992 and the shift to seeing patients as clients and equalsLifespan vs. health span and why functional longevity matters more than simply living longerSetting concrete longevity goals, including remaining physically and cognitively active into your 90sThe four cornerstones of health: diet, exercise, sleep, and mental perspectiveHow the immune, hormonal, and neurochemical systems function as one integrated system rather than separatelyCognitive decline prevention through mindset, acceptance, and reducing chronic low-grade inflammationHow the decade between ages 45 and 55 is the most health-critical due to declining reproductive hormonesBioidentical hormone replacement therapy for both men and women and its benefits for strength, cognition, and disease preventionMetabolic health, insulin resistance, and the cascade of problems associated with metabolic syndromeThe importance of nutrient-dense, home-prepared, locally sourced food and quality cooking oilsGenetics as a limit-setter rather than a life sentence, and how lifestyle choices shape epigenetic expressionBiological age testing and how genomic adaptability declines with age and poor lifestyle habitsWhat healthy aging actually looks like through your 50s, 60s, and beyond with consistent habitsCore supplements to consider: omega-3 oils, a quality multivitamin, and vitamin DHow exercise in your 50s, including resistance training and flexibility work, determines your biological age at 70 and beyond EPISODE RESOURCES  Integrative Peptides Cellular repair is the foundation of healthy aging. Pure, consistent peptide support to help you get there. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 10% off. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/IntegrativePeptides StemRegen More circulating stem cells means more raw material for the cellular repair and regeneration that keeps you functioning longer. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/StemRegen Heart and Soil Supplements The most nutrient-dense foods your body can get, in supplement form. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 10% off. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/HeartandSoil Prolon The only nutrition program clinically shown to reverse biological age. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 20% off. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/prolon Genopalate Metabolic health starts with knowing how your body processes food at a genetic level. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 10% off. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/genopalate CONNECT WITH THE GUEST Website: https://www.lifespanmedicine.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifespanmedicine Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lifespanmedicineMD KEYWORDS longevity medicine, health span, biological age, metabolic health, hormone replacement, peptides, stem cells, nutrient density, cognitive decline, epigenetics, insulin resistance, preventive medicine, omega-3, vitamin D, bioidentical hormones, aging well

MEET THE GUEST Alliera is the co-founder of HAAUS., an interior design, renovation and build brand that grew from sharing her own home and projects online. Alliera and her business partner started HAAUS. because at the time, no one was really sharing where they sourced their products from, so they began sharing their selections, suppliers and renovation journey and it went a little crazy from there, their numbers almost blew up overnight. Through HAAUS, they now share honest renovation insight, design education and real project experience to help people feel more confident creating a home they genuinely love. WHAT WE TALK ABOUT How the House Instagram account started as a hobby sharing renovation ideasDiscovery of black mold during a routine floorboard repairThe family's emotional reaction to finding mold in a brand-new homeParents forced to evacuate with only the clothes on their backsMold spores spreading to furniture, clothing, and personal belongingsSource of moisture traced to a junction between the old and new concrete slabDifficulty getting answers and tradespeople over the Christmas holiday periodFailed first remediation attempt and the discovery of efflorescence on the slabScope of remediation work across flooring, walls, insulation, and HVACHealth symptoms the family had dismissed, including fatigue, headaches, and chronic runny noseMold in a two-year-old home built by licensed trades with proper permitsMental health toll and ongoing anxiety after returning to the homeAir purifiers and air quality monitors as part of post-mold lifeFollowers discovering mold in their own homes after seeing Allira's storyMold as a hidden environmental toxin with no visible warning signsNewer homes being potentially more susceptible to mold than older buildsUpcoming educational courses, home design plans, and a new product line from House EPISODE RESOURCES  Immunolytics At-home mold testing so you can check your space without waiting for visible signs. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Immunolytics Quicksilver Support your body after mold exposure with liposomal supplements built for better absorption. Save 15% with code TRAILTOHEALTH. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/QuicksilverScientific Jaspr Jaspr's air scrubber filters out mold spores, dust, and toxins so your air stays clean. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 10% off. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Jaspr Branch Basics Stay on top of moisture and cleaning to defend against mold in your home. Code TRAILTOHEALTH for 15% off. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/BranchBasics AirDoctor Remove mold spores, allergens, and toxins from the air in your home. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 15% off. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/AirDoctor CONNECT WITH THE GUEST Website: https://haaus.com.au Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haausdesign YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@haaus KEYWORDS black mold in new home, black mold symptoms, mold remediation, at home mold testing, mold and fatigue, mold and headaches, mold health effects, hidden mold, mold under floorboards, mold in walls, efflorescence, air purifier for mold, mold spores, toxic mold, mold exposure

MEET THE GUEST Rebecca Gilbert, MD, PhD, is Chief Mission Officer at the American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA), where she leads mission strategy, oversees research, and guides educational programming. She earned her MD and PhD from Weill Cornell and completed her Neurology Residency and Movement Disorders Fellowship at Columbia Presbyterian. Before joining APDA, she was Associate Professor of Neurology at NYU Langone's Fresco Institute for Parkinson's and Movement Disorders. WHAT WE TALK ABOUT What Parkinson's disease is and how it fits into the broader category of movement disordersThe core motor symptoms: tremor, stiffness, slowness, and balance issuesThe non-motor symptoms and why they often go unrecognised, including mood changes, cognitive difficulties, sleep disruption, fatigue, and painAge of onset and the reality of young onset Parkinson's, which can affect people in their 30s and 40sEarly warning signs that are easy to miss, including loss of smell, constipation, and subtle asymmetric stiffnessHow Parkinson's is currently diagnosed through clinical neurological examination and the limitations of that approachEmerging biomarker testing (skin biopsy, DAT scan, lumbar puncture) and the push to diagnose earlierThe role of genetics: the approximately 15 known gene variants and the 85% of risk still not fully understoodEnvironmental contributors, including the herbicide Paraquat and the industrial solvent TCE, and why banning them has been slowThe golf course proximity research and how cumulative risk works, using the "overflowing cup" modelThe connection between chronic infection, inflammation, and neurological disease, including alpha-synuclein accumulation and the role of neuroinflammationThe gut-brain connection and the theory that Parkinson's may originate in the gut and travel to the brain via the vagus nerveCurrent treatment options including dopamine-based medications and deep brain stimulation surgeryThe critical importance of both structured exercise and general daily movement for people living with Parkinson'sThe Mediterranean diet's impact on Parkinson's progression, including research showing it delayed onset by up to 17 years in one studyWhat is currently being researched, including neuroprotective treatments that could change disease trajectory rather than just manage symptoms EPISODE RESOURCES  Danger Coffee Mold free coffee to reduce exposure in your morning cup.  Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 10% off. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/dangercoffee Viome Parkinson's research points to the gut first. Viome tests your biology and builds supplements around it. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/viome Nikki Combat sleep disruption, fatigue, and mood changes with a supportive, daily-wear wellness program that helps your body stay balanced. Code TRAILTOHEALTH saves 10%. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Nikki AirDoctor Filters out airborne chemicals and pollutants linked to environmental exposure. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/AirDoctor Leon & George Plants are one of the simplest ways to clean the air in your home. Beautiful greenery delivered to your door. Code TRAILTOHEALTH saves 10%. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/leonandgeorge CONNECT WITH THE GUEST Website: https://www.apdaparkinson.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apdaparkinsons Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/APDAparkinsons/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@apdaparkinsons KEYWORDS Parkinson's disease, movement disorders, neurology, APDA, neurologist, dopamine, alpha-synuclein, gut-brain connection, early diagnosis, Mediterranean diet, exercise, non-motor symptoms, toxic load