Health Optimization Medicine Podcast

In this episode of the Health Optimization Medicine Podcast, Dr. Allen Bookatz and Jodi Duval explore safety as a biological state and examine what happens when a threat has ended but the body's response has not yet fully resolved. The conversation looks at safety from two interconnected perspectives: the cell and the nervous system. Jodi explains how cells respond to threats through the Cell Danger Response, while Allen explores how the nervous system continuously evaluates the body's internal and external environment and determines how much of the system should remain committed to protection. A central theme throughout the episode focuses on the idea that the end of an acute threat is not necessarily the end of the healing response. The discussion explores what happens when the body remains organized around protection, even after the original crisis has passed. Join us as we delve into: Safety as a Biological State: Why safety is more than simply removing an immediate threat and why the body may require…

In this special episode of the Health Optimization Medicine Podcast, Dr. Jup Kuipers, Dr. Ted Achacoso, Dr. Allen Bookatz, and Dr. Scott Sherr discuss how toxicities can build up over time, affect cellular energy production, and eventually show up as problems across different organ systems. The team looks at two clinical cases involving mercury and arsenic exposure, and how symptoms were initially treated as separate problems by different specialists. They discuss why chronic, lower-level exposure can be difficult to identify, how heavy metals can interfere with mitochondrial function, and why looking at the cell may reveal a different picture than looking only at the organ that is showing symptoms. Join us as we delve into: The Limits of Organ-Based Medicine: Why specialists may correctly identify the affected organ while missing the shared environmental or metabolic cause. Subclinical vs. Acute Toxicity: Why chronic low-level exposure may affect health long before laboratory findings meet the threshold for…

In this episode of the Health Optimization Medicine Podcast, Dr. Scott Sherr sits down with Dr. Bryce Appelbaum to discuss the connection between vision, screen time, brain function, and nervous system regulation. Most people think of vision as eyesight, or how clearly they can see an eye chart. Dr. Appelbaum explains why vision is much broader. It involves how the brain receives information through the eyes, interprets the environment, coordinates movement, and decides how to respond. The conversation explores how prolonged screen use can narrow peripheral awareness, increase visual stress, and keep the nervous system in a more activated state. They also discuss the rise of myopia, the difference between eyesight and functional vision, and how vision performance training may support reading, learning, reaction time, spatial awareness, athletic performance, and recovery after concussion or traumatic brain injury. Join us as we delve into: Screen Time and the Nervous System: How prolonged engagement with…

In this episode of the Health Optimization Medicine Podcast, Dr. Scott Sherr, Dr. Allen Bookatz, and Jodi Duval explore the glymphatic system and the role sleep plays in clearing metabolic waste from the brain. Getting eight hours of sleep does not necessarily mean getting eight hours of effective brain clearance. The team looks at how the autonomic nervous system, norepinephrine, cerebrospinal fluid and interstitial fluid exchange, aquaporin-4 channels, circadian timing, body temperature, gut barrier integrity, and even anxiety around wearable sleep scores may influence the conditions needed for healthy glymphatic flow. The discussion also introduces a practical HOMeHOPe glymphatic optimization protocol focused on creating the chronobiological, bioenergetic, and environmental conditions that support natural overnight brain clearance. Join us as we delve into: How the Glymphatic System Works: How cerebrospinal fluid moves through perivascular spaces, exchanges with interstitial fluid, and helps remove…

In this episode of the Health Optimization Medicine Podcast, Dr. Scott Sherr, Jodi Duval, and Dr. Allen Bookatz explore what happens inside the cell when the body perceives stress or danger. The discussion focuses on Dr. Robert Naviaux's Cell Danger Response and how mitochondria can alter energy production and signaling in response to perceived threats. The team examines why fatigue, brain fog, inflammation, and exercise intolerance can occur even when standard laboratory testing appears normal, and how the different phases of the cellular response are meant to move from defense through repair and recovery. Join us as we delve into: Stress at the Cellular Level: How mitochondria and cells respond when they perceive danger from infection, toxins, injury, environmental exposures, or psychological stress. Why Normal Labs May Not Explain Fatigue: Why standard testing may not capture changes in cellular signaling, mitochondrial output, or a cell's metabolic state. The Three Phases of the Cell Danger Response: How…

In this episode of the Health Optimization Medicine Podcast, Dr. Ted Achacoso, Dr. Jup Kuipers, Boomer Anderson, Dr. Allen Bookatz, and Dr. Scott Sherr explore a difficult question: can we influence the biology of an aging brain carrying APOE4 risk? APOE4 is not simply a diagnosis, and a genetic result does not tell us what is happening in someone's brain today. The team looks at how APOE4 may affect lipid transport, microglial behavior, vascular integrity, glucose utilization, mitochondrial function, circadian biology, and epigenetic maintenance. The discussion also lays out a practical three-phase framework: establish the phenotype, reduce ongoing stressors, restore circadian and bioenergetic alignment, and track whether cognitive, functional, metabolic, vascular, and biological age measures actually improve over time. Join us as we delve into: APOE4 Risk vs Diagnosis: What one versus two APOE4 copies may mean, and why genotype is not the same as the current clinical stage. Cellular Energy and Epigenetic…

In this episode of the Health Optimization Medicine Podcast, Dr. Ted Achacoso, Dr. Scott Sherr, Dr. Allen Bookatz, and Jodi Duval sit down to discuss what happens when the body's cellular defense systems remain activated after the original threat has passed. Fatigue and brain fog are often treated as problems that require more stimulation, more exercise, or more supplements. But what if low energy is sometimes an adaptive response? The HOMeHOPe faculty explores the Cell Danger Response, how mitochondria and purinergic signaling respond to threats, and why pushing harder can sometimes work against recovery. The discussion also introduces a practical three-phase approach to moving from persistent cellular defense toward greater metabolic and bioenergetic flexibility. Join us as we delve into: Why Cells Get Stuck in Survival Mode: How infection, toxin exposure, tissue injury, and other stressors can shift cellular priorities toward defense, and what happens when those signals persist after the original crisis.…

In this episode of the Health Optimization Medicine Podcast, Dr. Scott Sherr, Dr. Ted Achacoso, Dr. Allen Bookatz, and Dr. Jup Kuipers explore how acute sleep deprivation affects brain energy metabolism and whether creatine monohydrate can help preserve cognitive function when sleep loss is unavoidable. Rather than relying on stimulants like caffeine or modafinil to push through fatigue, the team examines whether directly supporting the brain's phosphocreatine and ATP systems can maintain cellular energy and cognitive performance during acute sleep deprivation. The discussion looks at recent research on single-dose creatine, brain bioenergetics, blood-brain barrier transport, clinical dosing, and the limits of using creatine as an acute rescue tool. Join us as we delve into: Sleep Deprivation as a Bioenergetic Crisis: Why acute sleep loss is more than simply feeling tired, and how depletion of phosphocreatine and ATP can affect executive function and cognitive performance. The Creatine Rescue Effect: What a…

In this episode of the Health Optimization Medicine Podcast, Boomer Anderson, Dr. Allen Bookatz, Dr. Ted Achacoso, and Dr. Jup Kuipers explore a misunderstood cause of chronic fatigue and leaky gut: the bioenergetic failure of your colonocytes. While many practitioners throw random probiotic strains and anti-inflammatory herbs at gut issues, metabolomic research shows this approach fails to address the root problem. The team explains how a starved microbiome forces gut cells to switch energy systems, leaking oxygen into the colon, destroying strict anaerobes, and allowing endotoxins to flood the bloodstream and drain your cellular vitality. From holobiont metabolomics to targeted mucosal protocols, this discussion reframes gut health through the lens of mitochondrial beta oxidation rather than simply managing inflammation. Join us as we delve into: The Gut Hypoxia Trap: How starved colonocytes switch to anaerobic glycolysis and leak oxygen into the gut, killing off the strict anaerobes that make butyrate.…

In this episode of the Health Optimization Medicine Podcast, Dr. Scott Sherr, Dr. Ted Achacoso, Dr. Allen Bookatz, and Jodi Duval explore one of the most overlooked causes of declining cellular energy: the structural breakdown of the mitochondrial membrane. While many people invest in premium longevity supplements like NAD+, NMN, and CoQ10 to improve energy production, emerging research suggests these compounds cannot overcome a damaged mitochondrial membrane. The team explains how age-related phosphatidylcholine depletion weakens the mitochondrial lipid bilayer, causing proton leakage, oxidative stress, and reduced ATP production, even when the biochemical machinery appears intact. From membrane lipidomics and clinical metabolomics to phosphatidylcholine replacement and methylation support, this discussion reframes mitochondrial health through the lens of structural integrity rather than simply adding more fuel. Join us as we delve into: The Leaky Mitochondria Problem: Why declining phosphatidylcholine…

In this episode of the Health Optimization Medicine Podcast, Dr. Scott Sherr sits down with Dr. Dominic D'Agostino, the premier researcher in ketogenic metabolic therapies. Moving past the mainstream fads of keto ice cream and internet trends, they break down how exogenous ketones actually impact cellular energy, cardiovascular health, and environmental stress. From the liver toxicity associated with certain high-dose ketone esters to the hidden vasodilatory superpowers of L-BHB, this discussion separates the biohacking hype from the physiological reality of ketone supplementation. Join us as we delve into: Fad vs. Science: Why serious researchers use the term Ketone Metabolic Therapy instead of Ketogenic Diet, and why peer-reviewed science is growing exponentially despite Google trends. The Metformin VO2 Max Penalty: Exploring recent data showing metformin can blunt VO2 max adaptations to exercise by 50% and acts as a weak mitochondrial toxin. Mitochondrial Hydraulic Efficiency: How ketones physically…

In this episode of the Health Optimization Medicine Podcast, Dr. Ted Achacoso, Dr. Scott Sherr, Dr. Allen Bookatz, Jodi Duval, and Dr. Jup Kuipers take a deep dive into the shocking new 21-year pre-diabetes follow-up study (DPPOS) published in the Journal of the American Medical Association on June 15, 2026. Moving past the mainstream longevity hype surrounding Metformin as an anti-aging cure-all, the faculty breaks down why chemically poisoning your enzymes is a profound mismatch for healthy, active individuals. From the bioenergetics of exercise to the clinical application of precision metabolomics, this roundtable shifts the conversation from off-label drug prescriptions to cultivating true cellular safety and mitochondrial hormesis. Join us as we delve into: The Metformin Illusion: The long-term results of the DPPOS study proving Metformin completely failed to outperform a placebo for reducing multimorbidity risk, while intensive lifestyle intervention reduced multiple chronic disease risks by over 20%.…

In this episode of the Health Optimization Medicine Podcast, Dr. Ted Achacoso, Dr. Scott Sherr, Dr. Allen Bookatz, Dr. Jup Kuipers, and Jodi Duval take a deep dive into the gut-brain-microbiota axis. Moving past the simplistic, pathogenic "pill-for-an-ill" approach of conventional psychiatry and the mainstream hype around over-the-counter probiotics, the faculty breaks down why establishing enteric safety must always precede biochemical optimization. Join us as we delve into: The Tripartite Axis: How the enteric microbiota, gut barrier, and central nervous system communicate at a molecular and metabolomic level to dictate brain state and mood. Epigenetic Signaling: How gut microbes act as active metabolic factories, fermenting dietary fibers into short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like butyrate that cross the blood-brain barrier to upregulate BDNF and support synaptic plasticity. The IDO Serotonin Hijack: How gut-driven inflammation activates indolamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO), shunting tryptophan down the…

In this episode of the Health Optimization Medicine Podcast, Dr. Allen Bookatz, Dr. Ted Achacoso, and Jodi Duval tackle the widespread trend of supplement fatigue. As biohacking becomes a mindset of treating symptoms with heavy stimulants and endless pills, the faculty breaks down why forcing adaptation on an exhausted system only drives the body deeper into a chronic state of inflammatory defense. From the biophysics of the Cell Danger Response (CDR1) to practical parasympathetic upregulation, this roundtable shifts the focus from treating disease to establishing true autonomic safety. Join us as we delve into: The Cell Danger Response (CDR1): How a sympathetic fight-or-flight state physically stiffens cell membranes and halts aerobic respiration. The Vagal Superhighway: How sympathetic dominance halts gut motility, triggers dysbiosis, and blocks neurotransmitter synthesis. The Autonomic Safety Protocol: The critical importance of chronobiology, early morning sunlight, and circadian anchors. Vagal…

In this episode of the Health Optimization Medicine Podcast, our faculty, Dr. Scott Sherr, Dr. Ted Achacoso, Boomer Anderson, Dr. Allen Bookatz, and Jodi Duval, tackle the recent trend of therapeutic plasma exchange and "blood washing". Moving past the mainstream marketing of plasmapheresis as a longevity cure-all, the team breaks down why mechanical filtering is only a surface-level fix for microplastic toxicity. From the autonomic anxiety caused by biological lockdown to the clinical application of precision metabolomics, this roundtable shifts the conversation from invasive procedures to measurable, cellular safety signals. Join us as we delve into: The Protein Corona: How circulating microplastics masquerade as pathogens, triggering localized purinergic signaling and the release of extracellular ATP. The Cell Danger Response (CDR1): Why the body halts oxidative phosphorylation and locks down the cell membrane when invaded, and why blood washing can't touch toxins stuck inside tissue matrices. The Problem…

In this episode of the Health Optimization Medicine Podcast, the HOMeHOPe faculty (Dr. Scott Sherr, Dr. Ted Achacoso, Boomer Anderson, and Jodi Duval) tackles one of the most paradoxical trends in modern biohacking: sleep tracking. Moving past the mainstream obsession with daily device scores, the team breaks down the biochemical realities of how tracking your HRV might actually be sabotaging your sleep architecture. From the autonomic anxiety caused by digital wearables to the clinical application of precision chronobiology, this roundtable shifts the conversation from algorithmic scores to measurable, cellular safety signals. Join us as we delve into: The Orthosomnia Epidemic: Why waking up to a red recovery score immediately triggers your prefrontal cortex, activates your HPA axis, and flattens your diurnal cortisol curve. The HRV Paradox: Understanding the actual biological markers of Heart Rate Variability and why an algorithmic score doesn't dictate your physical reality. The Cell Danger Response: How…

In this special in-person roundtable recorded in Washington, D.C., the HOMeHOPe faculty sit down to decode one of the most important perspective shifts in modern health: the Holobiont. Moving away from the traditional, siloed medical model of "organology" (treating the heart, gut, and brain as isolated systems managed by different specialists), the faculty discusses why true health optimization requires viewing the human body as a complex, interconnected ecosystem of ecosystems. Join us as we delve into: The Holobiont Paradigm: Why you are not just a single organism, but a super-ecosystem made up of human cells and trillions of cooperating microbiota (including in your cornea, ureters, and gut). The Danger of "Organ" Medicine: How specializing solely in individual organs leads to clinical blind spots, and why common prescriptions like statins and PPIs can quietly disrupt cellular energy (CoQ10) and nutrient absorption system-wide. Metabolomics vs. Genetics: Why your DNA only tells you what might happen,…

In this episode of the Health Optimization Medicine Podcast, the core faculty (Dr. Scott Sherr, Dr. Ted Achacoso, Dr. Jup Kuipers, and Dr. Allen Bookatz) tackles one of the most misunderstood topics in modern nutrition: fiber. Moving past the mainstream trend of "fiber-maxing," the team breaks down the actual biochemical realities of how different forms of fiber interact with your unique gut microbiome. From the surprising hormonal impacts of over-consuming fiber to the rise of localized conditions, this roundtable shifts the conversation from generic dietary rules to precise, measurable, cellular data. Join us as we delve into: The Classification of Fiber: Understanding the biological differences between soluble fiber (which breaks down into calories) and insoluble fiber (which adds bulk to stool). The Fiber Maxing Trap: Why forcing massive amounts of psyllium husk, acacia powder, and green drinks can aggravate conditions like Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) and IBS. The Estrogen Heist: The…

In this episode of the Health Optimization Medicine Podcast, the HOMeHOPe faculty, Dr. Scott Sherr, Dr. Ted Achacoso, Dr. Jup Kuipers, and Dr. Allen Bookatz reunite in person in Washington, D.C.. Moving away from traditional classifications of illness, the team breaks down a powerful paradigm shift: chronic disease and aging are not separate processes—chronic disease is aging. Drawing from the pioneering frameworks of biogerontologist Aubrey de Grey and the SENS Research Foundation, they discuss how flawed metabolism inherently accumulates structural damage long before a clinical diagnosis ever appears. Join us as we delve into: •The Metabolism Flaw: How the very process keeping us alive produces reactive oxygen species and damage that eventually leads to tissue breakdown and pathology. •Reclassifying Disease: Moving past the old congenital vs. infectious vs. chronic model to target metabolism directly. •The $30,000 Stem Cell Mistake: Why dropping thousands on mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) or exosomes is a…

In this episode of the Health Optimization Medicine Podcast, hosts Dr. Scott Sherr and Jodi Duval come together for an intimate, parent-to-parent roundtable. As the only current parents on the HOMeHOPe faculty, they dive deep into the specific biology of preconception, pregnancy, and pediatric health optimization. Moving beyond typical disease management, they explore how to foster both psychological and cellular safety across the entire family unit. Join us as we delve into: The Masterclass Blueprint: Navigating the fastest period of human growth and biological wiring from preconception to age 12. The Energy Demands of Fertility: Why oocytes (eggs) and reproductive organs hold the highest mitochondrial density per cell in the body. Pediatric Shifts: Addressing modern rises in childhood insomnia, allergies, immune dysregulation, and pediatric autoimmunity through an exposomic lens. The Testing Trap: Why traditional adult lab testing templates aren't always required—or appropriate—for resilient,…

In this episode of the Health Optimization Medicine Podcast, the HOMeHOPe Faculty (Dr. Scott Sherr, Dr. Allen Bookatz, Dr. Ted Achacoso, and Dr. Jup Kuipers) dive deep into the unseen world inside your stomach. Moving beyond simple probiotics, they discuss the gut as a "post-natal organ" and explore how the trillions of microbes inside you actually dictate your cravings, your mood, and your immune system. 𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝘂𝘀 𝗮𝘀 𝘄𝗲 𝗱𝗲𝗹𝘃𝗲 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗼: •The "tripartite axis" (Gut-Brain-Enteric Microbiota) and how it links directly to treatment-resistant depression and anxiety. •Why the vagus nerve is the master switch for your rest-and-digest parasympathetic nervous system. •The concept of the "Holobiont": Why your microbial DNA is 100 times larger than your human DNA. •How a single weekend of bad eating or a disrupted sleep schedule can completely derail your microbiome in just 72 hours. •Why vegetarians sometimes struggle with massive bloating and methane gas production due to bacterial overgrowth. 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗲𝗽𝗶𝘀𝗼𝗱𝗲 𝗶𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗶𝗳:…

In this episode of the Health Optimization Medicine Podcast, Dr. Scott Sherr, Dr. Allen Bookatz, and Dr. Jup Kuipers come together live in studio in Washington, D.C. to discuss the dangers of over-optimization and the "more is better" mentality. They explore real clinical case studies of patients who inadvertently damaged their health by blindly following supplement trends. Join us as we delve into: The dangers of over-supplementing with high-dose Fish Oil and Vitamin B6. How shifting to an "Omega-3 dominant" ratio can actually hinder your immune system's ability to heal injuries. Why you should treat metabolomic testing like the dashboard of a car to prevent the "check engine light" of chronic disease. How clinical metabolomics allows you to stop guessing and start subtracting unnecessary pills from your daily routine. This episode is for you if: You are experiencing wellness burnout and taking a massive handful of supplements every day without knowing if they are working. You want to understand the…

In this episode of the Health Optimization Medicine Podcast, the HOMeHOPe Faculty comes together for a roundtable conversation exploring the science and clinical application of creatine. Moving beyond its reputation as just a performance supplement for "gym bros," Boomer Anderson, Dr. Scott Sherr, Dr. Allen Bookatz, and Dr. Ted Achacoso break down how creatine functions as a critical cellular battery buffer. Join us as we delve into: How creatine bypasses the "methylation tax" by saving the body from depleting SAMe reserves to produce energy. Why muscle is a metabolic determinant of resilience and not just a cosmetic feature. The evolutionary mismatch that increases our cellular energy demands due to a highly sympathetic, stressed lifestyle. The role of creatine in brain health is particularly important for supporting working memory, mitigating cognitive fatigue, and protecting against excitotoxicity. This episode is for you if: You are curious about how to support your body's cellular energy and…

In this episode of the HOMe Podcast, Dr. Scott Sherr, Dr. Ted Achacoso, Dr. Jup Kuipers, and Dr. Allen Bookatz explore a foundational principle of Health Optimization Medicine: What's toxic to the cell is toxic to every organ. Through real clinical cases — including mercury toxicity, arsenic exposure, and environmental toxin accumulation — the team reveals how modern medicine often misses the root cause of disease by focusing on isolated organ systems instead of cellular function. From chronic low-level toxin exposure to acute breakdown events, this episode highlights how toxins disrupt mitochondrial energy production, leading to widespread dysfunction across the body. Most importantly, the conversation emphasizes the role of metabolomics in identifying these hidden stressors early — before they manifest as disease. Join us as we delve into: • Why toxins affect every organ through the cell • A real case of mercury toxicity missed by multiple specialists • How chronic exposure becomes acute illness • Why…

In this episode of the Health Optimization Medicine Podcast, Dr. Scott Sherr sits down with JJ Virgin — nutrition expert, bestselling author, and founder of the Health Business Growth Collective — to explore how healthcare practitioners can build trust, authority, and impact in today's rapidly evolving landscape. With the rise of AI and what JJ calls a "trust recession," the traditional ways of building a practice are no longer enough. Instead, practitioners must learn how to stand out as a trusted authority — combining credibility, authenticity, and real-world proof. JJ breaks down her powerful "Trusted Authority Framework," explaining how clinicians can differentiate themselves, connect with patients, and grow their influence without becoming influencers. This episode is a must-listen for practitioners looking to grow, scale, and future-proof their practice in the age of AI. Join us as we delve into: The "Trust Recession" and why it's reshaping healthcare The difference between being an influencer vs a…

In this episode of the Health Optimization Medicine Podcast, Boomer Anderson, Dr. Ted Achacoso, Dr. Scott Sherr, and Jodi Duval explore mental health through the lens of health optimization medicine. Rather than viewing mental health as a set of diagnoses, the conversation reframes it as a function of cellular health — where brain function is driven by mitochondrial performance, inflammation, nutrient status, and environmental inputs. From neurotransmitter imbalances to brain inflammation and the gut-brain-microbiome axis, this episode breaks down how modern stressors, lifestyle, and environment impact mental health at the cellular level. Most importantly, the team explains why true mental health optimization must begin with optimizing the health of the cell. Join us as we delve into: • Why mental health should be viewed at the cellular level • The role of mitochondria in brain energy and signaling • Brain inflammation and its impact on mood and cognition • The gut-brain-microbiome axis and neurotransmitter…

In this episode of the Health Optimization Medicine Podcast, join Boomer Anderson, Dr. Ted Achacoso, and Jodi Duval as they break down one of the most important frameworks in Health Optimization Medicine — the Cell Danger Response (CDR). Originally developed by Dr. Robert Naviaux, the Cell Danger Response explains how cells respond to threat, adapt for survival, and either resolve or become "stuck" — leading to chronic disease. This episode walks through the three stages of the CDR, how mitochondria act as both sensors and signaling hubs, and why many modern conditions — from inflammation to chronic illness — are actually stalled healing processes. Most importantly, the team explains how clinicians and individuals can identify where the body is "stuck" and what to do (and NOT do) to support proper resolution. Join us as we delve into: What the Cell Danger Response (CDR) is and why it matters The 3 stages: defense, repair, and resolution How mitochondria act as sensors — not just energy producers Why…

In this episode of the Health Optimization Medicine Podcast, Dr. Scott Sherr is joined by renowned neurologist and bestselling author Dr. David Perlmutter to explore one of the most important breakthroughs in brain health — the role of microglia. Often overlooked, microglial cells are the brain's immune system and play a central role in determining whether the brain thrives or degenerates over time. Dr. Perlmutter explains how these cells can shift between protective (M2) and destructive (M1) states — and how this shift underlies neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and more. Most importantly, this episode highlights how everyday lifestyle choices — from diet and exercise to metabolic health — directly influence brain function and long-term cognitive resilience. Join us as we delve into: What microglia are and why they control brain health The difference between M1 (destructive) and M2 (protective) states How metabolism shapes the brain's immune response Why conditions like Alzheimer's…

In this episode of the Health Optimization Medicine Podcast, join Boomer Anderson, Dr. Ted Achacoso, Dr. Allen Bookatz, and Jodi Duval as they explore chronobiology — and how modern life is disrupting the body's natural rhythms. From jet lag and shift work to late-night scrolling and irregular meals, the conversation dives into what Dr. Ted calls "circadian pollution" — the mismatch between our biology and the environments we've created. More importantly, the team breaks down simple, powerful tools to re-entrain your body clock using light, food timing, and movement — all foundational principles in Health Optimization Medicine. Join us as we delve into: What chronobiological re-entrainment actually means The difference between the brain clock and organ clocks How light, food, and movement act as biological time signals Why late-night eating creates "metabolic jet lag" How modern life creates circadian disruption This episode is for you if: You struggle with sleep, fatigue, or inconsistent energy You travel…

In this episode of the Health Optimization Medicine Podcast, join Boomer Anderson, Jodi Duval, Dr. Allen Bookatz, and Dr. Ted Achacoso as they explore the future of clinical intelligence — and why medicine must move beyond single biomarkers to understanding networks within the body. Rather than chasing isolated lab values like glucose, cholesterol, or testosterone, the conversation shifts toward a systems-based approach — where every biomarker is part of a dynamic network of relationships. From metabolomics to hormone balance, this episode explains why optimizing health requires understanding how different systems interact, adapt, and influence each other in real time. Join us as we delve into: Why single biomarkers are only "nodes" in a larger biological network The concept of nodes and edges in human physiology How glucose, thyroid, and metabolic systems are interconnected Why cholesterol, inflammation, and B vitamins must be viewed together The risks of optimizing one biomarker (like testosterone) in…

In this episode of the Health Optimization Medicine Podcast, join Dr. Scott Sherr, Dr. Ted Achacoso, Dr. Allen Bookatz, and Jodi Duval as they explore the hidden cost of convenience and comfort in modern life. From ultra-processed foods and low-fiber diets to sedentary lifestyles and technology-driven comfort, the conversation dives into how convenience is quietly reshaping our biology. The HOMeHOPe Faculty explains why small daily habits — like eating whole foods, moving regularly, and embracing mild discomfort — are essential for maintaining cellular health and resilience. Rather than trying to "hack" health with quick fixes, the discussion emphasizes consistent lifestyle behaviors that support the microbiome, metabolic function, and long-term health optimization. Join us as we delve into: • Why fiber is the fastest disappearing macronutrient in modern diets • The role of gut microbiota and short-chain fatty acids in health • Why habits like sleep, eating, and exercise cannot be "banked" • The…

In this episode of the Health Optimization Medicine Podcast, the HOMeHOPe Faculty comes together for a roundtable conversation exploring the core philosophical framework behind Health Optimization Medicine. Dr. Scott Sherr, Boomer Anderson, and Dr. Allen Bookatz break down the three fundamental perspective shifts that redefine how we think about health, disease, aging, and the human body itself. Rather than focusing on disease management, this episode introduces the foundational principles behind building health from the cellular level up. Join us as we delve into: • The shift from pathogenesis (studying disease) to salutogenesis (creating health) • Why longevity alone isn't enough without vitality and morbidity compression • How neotenization focuses on restoring youthful biological function • The concept of the holobiont: humans as ecosystems of interconnected organisms This episode is for you if: • You want to understand the philosophy behind Health Optimization Medicine • You're curious why modern…

In this episode of the Smarter Not Harder Podcast, Dr. Helen Messier joins Dr. Scott Sherr for a wide-ranging and thought-provoking conversation about longevity, epigenetics, AI-powered medicine, and the real meaning of healthspan. From whole genome sequencing to digital twins and emotional resilience, this episode bridges cutting-edge science with deeply human healing in a way that challenges how we think about aging. Join us as we delve into: The difference between lifespan and healthspan — and why resilience matters more than years Whole genome sequencing, polygenic risk scores, and the limits of genetic hype Multi-omics medicine: genomics, metabolomics, proteomics, and systems biology AI in healthcare, digital twins, and the return of the "country doctor" model This episode is for you if: You're curious about biological age vs. chronological age You want to understand what genetic testing can (and can't) tell you You're fascinated by AI's role in the future of personalized medicine You want smarter, not…

In this episode of the Smarter Not Harder Podcast, Dr. Alan Gaby joins Jodi Duval to explore over five decades of clinical experience in nutritional medicine. From vitamin C and magnesium to hidden food allergies and the Myers' Cocktail, this conversation unpacks what actually works — and why much of it is still ignored by conventional medicine. Join us as we delve into: • Why magnesium may be the most overlooked nutrient deficiency • Folic acid vs. methylfolate — what the research really says • The truth about vitamin C, IV therapy, and immune resilience • Hidden food allergies as root causes of chronic disease • Niacinamide for osteoarthritis, skin cancer prevention, and glaucoma • How to break sugar addiction and stabilize blood sugar naturally This episode is for you if: • You want evidence-based nutritional medicine — not hype • You're curious about elimination diets and hidden food sensitivities • You've heard conflicting advice about methylated vitamins • You want simple, practical strategies to…

In this episode of the Smarter Not Harder Podcast, Dr. Linda Kiley joins Dr. Scott Sherr for a groundbreaking conversation on functional urogynecology — exploring the real causes of pelvic and bladder pain that most conventional models miss. Dr. Kiley shares how she uses muscle exams, peptide protocols, and root-cause diagnostics to treat conditions like interstitial cystitis, chronic UTIs, pelvic floor dysfunction, and endometriosis — often without surgery or long-term antibiotics. If you or someone you love has been told "there's nothing wrong" but still struggles with pelvic discomfort, bladder issues, or sexual pain, this episode is a must-listen. Join us as we explore: • The pelvic floor as a dynamic system — not just "tight or weak" • Biofilms, interstitial cystitis, and smart testing for chronic infections • How gut health and systemic inflammation drive pelvic pain • Natural, non-invasive approaches to bladder and pelvic restoration This episode is for you if: • You experience chronic UTIs, bladder…

In this episode of the Smarter Not Harder Podcast, Grace Hawkins joins Jodi Duval to share her inspiring journey from medical misdiagnosis to becoming a personalized health mentor. With a background in naturopathy and clinical diagnostics, Grace blends DNA, blood chemistry, and HTMA testing to help her clients uncover the root causes of dysfunction and reclaim agency in their health journey. From endometriosis and burnout to lab interpretation and emotional patterns, this episode is a roadmap for how to think critically, test wisely, and personalize healing in a system that often fails to see the whole picture. Join us as we explore: • Grace's approach to personalized testing: DNA, HTMA & blood • Emotional patterns, heavy metals & how HTMA reveals hidden stories • How to empower clients with data and narrative — not just prescriptions • The future of health mentorship and integrative practitioner models This episode is for you if: • You've been told "your labs are normal" — but you still don't feel right •…

In this episode of the Smarter Not Harder Podcast, Dr. Amanda Wiggins joins Jodi Duval to explore one of the most promising frontiers in longevity and neuroscience: brain vascular health. From her discovery of CGP (cyclic glycine-proline) to the science behind neurovascular aging, Dr. Wiggins explains why capillaries, inflammation, and even insulin play a much bigger role in dementia than most people realize. From biotech insights to personal stories, this conversation reveals what we can all do — starting now — to protect our brains as we age. Join us as we explore: • What CGP is and how it supports the blood-brain barrier • How brain vascular health is central to dementia prevention • Why IGF-1, capillaries, and inflammation matter more than we thought • How to start optimizing brain health — simply and effectively This episode is for you if: • You want to understand the vascular root of cognitive decline • You're looking for emerging therapies to support brain health • You're navigating aging, menopause,…

In this episode of the Smarter Not Harder Podcast, Ryan Carter joins Dr. Scott Sherr for a refreshingly real, honest, and grounded conversation about what's broken in the "biohacking" and health optimization world — and how to fix it. Ryan, a UK-based remote health practitioner, shares his journey from extreme protocols and burnout to balanced clinical systems that support long-term health. From redox before detox to seasonal eating, mold, light, water, and remote testing, this is the practitioner's perspective you rarely hear. Join us as we explore: • The top 5 health mistakes smart people still make • Redox before detox: why energy must come first • The dangers of extreme tribes and supplement obsession • Clinical pearls for mold, light, and remote health testing This episode is for you if: • You're overwhelmed by protocols, labs, and conflicting health advice • You've tried everything but still feel stuck or exhausted • You're a clinician building an online or remote practice • You want smarter, not…

In this episode of the Smarter Not Harder Podcast, Dr. Libby Weaver joins Jodi Duval for an illuminating conversation about iron — the most overlooked yet essential nutrient for mood, cognition, metabolism, and long-term health. Together, they break down myths, lab test pitfalls, supplement confusion, and why so many women and children remain iron-deficient despite "normal" results. From hepcidin and hormone shifts to sport, anxiety, and pregnancy, this is the deep dive into iron you didn't know you needed. Join us as we explore: • What hepcidin is and why it's the key to iron absorption • Why teenage girls and high-performing women are so often iron-deficient • Iron infusions: when they're needed — and when they're not • Testing errors, supplement types, and food-based solutions This episode is for you if: • You've ever been told your iron is "normal" but still feel exhausted • You've had recurring iron infusions or failed supplements • You're a practitioner wanting clarity on dosing, testing, and…

In this episode of the Smarter Not Harder Podcast, Dr. Melissa Jones joins Dr. Scott Sherr for an insightful and groundbreaking conversation about pediatric neurology, inflammation, and the integrative treatment of conditions like PANS, PANDAS, autism, and dysautonomia. Dr. Jones shares her journey from conventional pediatric neurology to functional and integrative care, breaking down how chronic infections, gut health, mold toxicity, and inflammation play a critical role in neuropsychiatric disorders in children — and how these issues can often be reversed. Join us as we explore: • What PANS and PANDAS really are — and why they're often misdiagnosed • Mold, mycoplasma, and Lyme: stealth infections affecting kids' brains • Why gut health, mitochondria, and detox pathways matter in autism • The power of lifestyle, sleep, diet, and supplements to reduce neuroinflammation This episode is for you if: • You're a parent or clinician curious about the root causes of neuropsychiatric symptoms • You're looking for…

In this episode of the Smarter Not Harder Podcast, Dr. Matthew Bernstein joins Jodi Duval for a pioneering conversation about the rise of metabolic psychiatry — the intersection of mitochondrial health, nutrition, and brain performance. From ketogenic therapy to personalized mental health biomarkers, this episode offers a radically hopeful perspective on treating conditions like depression, OCD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Join us as we explore: • What metabolic psychiatry is and why it matters now • How insulin resistance, inflammation, and mitochondria affect mood and cognition • Why ketones aren't just fuel — but also powerful brain signals • Tools like CGMs, RCTs, and the ACCORD program • Supplements and real-world protocols for psychiatric healing This episode is for you if: • You or someone you love has struggled with medication-resistant mental illness • You're curious how nutrition and metabolism affect the brain • You want a psychiatrist's view on keto, CGMs, and continuous feedback • You…

In this episode of the Smarter Not Harder Podcast, the HOMeHOPe Faculty returns to share their bold, thoughtful, and sometimes hilarious predictions for 2026. What's next in health, medicine, technology, and self-optimization? From wearable evolution to parasite cleanses, GLP-1 backlash, and the return of cell foundations, the team reflects on the biggest lessons from 2025 and what's coming next. Join us as we explore: • Foundational health before flashy biohacks • The real risks and limits of AI-driven health tools • Why the "cell danger response" is 2026's new buzzword • Hormones, exposomics, parasympathetic edge & wearable fatigue • Can AI replace average doctors? And why great ones will always win This episode is for you if: • You're a clinician navigating health tech, trends, and patient overwhelm • You want to prepare your mind and body for 2026 • You're looking for grounded, honest predictions — not hype • You're part of the HOMeHOPe community or interested in joining You can also find this episode…

In this episode of the Smarter Not Harder Podcast, Cynthia Thurlow joins Dr. Scott Sherr for a wide-ranging and refreshingly honest conversation about fasting, female hormones, GLP-1s, and navigating midlife as a high-performing woman. With clarity and nuance, Cynthia breaks down what works — and what backfires — when it comes to metabolic health for women over 35. Join us as we delve into: • Why intermittent fasting isn't a one-size-fits-all solution • How hormone shifts change the fasting game for women • What GLP-1s like Ozempic and Wegovy really do — and don't do • How to stay metabolically flexible through perimenopause This episode is for you if: • You're a woman over 35 trying to fast smarter, not harder • You're curious about GLP-1s but want balanced, science-based insight • You've hit a metabolic wall and need smarter strategies • You want practical, hormone-informed tools for fat loss and focus You can also find this episode on… YouTube: https://youtu.be/5oVPHVbyUcw Find more from Cynthia Thurlow:…

In this episode of the Smarter Not Harder Podcast, join the HOMeHOPe Faculty for an unexpected, hilarious, and wisdom-packed roundtable about clinical and cultural "ratios." From orgasm-to-ejaculation to screen-time-to-movement, this wide-ranging conversation mixes evolutionary health with irreverent banter and serious insight. Join us as we delve into: • Why your presence-to-distraction ratio might determine your mental health • How micro-ratios influence behavior, biology, and balance • Grounding, lighting, nature, and the metrics of modern living • Dr. Ted's 8-8-8 system for sunlight, movement, and connection This episode is for you if: • You're curious about micro-optimization and clinical ratios that matter • You want science-backed health wisdom mixed with humor • You need practical ways to rebalance time, energy, and presence • You believe better health starts with smarter habits — not harder ones You can also find this episode on… Youtube: https://youtu.be/zP1TC72dOwc Find more from Smarter Not…

In this episode of the Smarter Not Harder Podcast, Dr. Bia Labate joins Boomer Anderson for a deeply honest, educational, and wide-ranging conversation about ayahuasca, psychedelic churches, Indigenous reciprocity, and the founding story of Chacruna — one of the most influential organizations in the psychedelic space. Join us as we delve into: • Why the psychedelic movement needs decolonization and critical dialogue • How Bia became a hub for global ayahuasca culture • The role of Chacruna in academic activism and social justice • The legal, ethical, and cultural realities of psychedelic churches today This episode is for you if: • You're curious about the non-clinical side of psychedelic healing • You want to understand Indigenous reciprocity and decolonizing philanthropy • You care about equity, ethics, and the future of psychedelics • You want to learn from one of the most trusted voices in the psychedelic movement You can also find this episode on… Youtube: https://youtu.be/mT2X41sXOUE Find more from Dr.…

In this episode of the Smarter Not Harder Podcast, the HOMeHOPe Faculty comes together for a roundtable conversation exploring the idea of "clinical kryptonite" — the client types, conditions, and scenarios that challenge even the most experienced practitioners. Through candid stories and diverse clinical perspectives, the faculty highlights how self-awareness, scope clarity, and collaborative care shape better outcomes for both practitioners and patients. Join us as we delve into: Why certain conditions — such as cancer or severe mental health disorders — can feel overwhelming in clinical practice How practitioners recognize when a case requires referral, collaboration, or a different skill set The biochemical and systems-level foundations that make mental health cases uniquely complex The importance of boundaries, therapeutic rapport, and honesty in maintaining effective practitioner–client relationships This episode is for you if: You're a clinician interested in understanding your own "clinical…

In this episode of the Smarter Not Harder Podcast, Dr. Mariza Snyder joins Dr. Scott Sherr for a powerful, empowering conversation about women's hormone health, midlife transitions, and how to reclaim your energy, focus, and body from the inside out. Join us as we delve into: • Why perimenopause isn't just "hot flashes" but a full‑body metabolic recalibration • Which labs and markers actually matter for hormone balance and vitality • How gut health, stress, and mindset all converge during midlife transitions • Real‑world lifestyle, nutrition, and essential oil strategies for hormone harmony This episode is for you if: • You're navigating perimenopause or menopause and want clarity • You're tired of one‑size‑fits‑all hormone advice and want smart strategies • You're a woman over 35 who wants to protect your metabolism, mood, and energy • You're curious how hormones, gut health, and lifestyle tie together — smarter, not harder You can also find this episode on…YouTube: https://youtu.be/K06PpRWgOjc Find more…

In this episode of the Smarter Not Harder Podcast, the HOMeHOPe Faculty — Dr. Scott Sherr, Dr. Ted Achacoso, Dr. Jup Kuipers, and Dr. Allen Bookatz — reunite for a timely and insightful roundtable on play, presence, and practitioner power in the age of AI. From microdosing in medicine to using ChatGPT in clinical care, this conversation explores how fun, flow, and forward-thinking frameworks can reinvent healthcare from the inside out. Join us as we delve into: • How "play" transforms clinical performance, creativity, and resilience • The promise and pitfalls of AI like ChatGPT and Gemini in modern medicine • HOMeHOPe's model of proactive care — and why health optimization starts before symptoms • From burnout to breakthrough: how clinicians can reclaim joy and curiosity in practice This episode is for you if: • You're a clinician feeling trapped between protocols and possibility • You want to integrate fun, flow, and fulfillment into your professional life • You're curious about AI in healthcare — and how…

In this episode of the Smarter Not Harder Podcast, Veronika Gold joins Boomer Anderson for an eye-opening and grounded conversation about ketamine-assisted psychotherapy and the resurgence of psychedelic therapy. Together, they explore clinical safety, spiritual depth, and the evolving landscape of mental health treatments that blend science and soul. Join us as we delve into: • What makes ketamine unique among psychedelics • How trauma, anxiety, and depression are approached with expanded states • The critical role of therapy in psychedelic healing • Lessons from Indigenous practices and transpersonal psychology This episode is for you if: • You've heard about ketamine therapy and want to understand how it really works • You or someone you love is struggling with anxiety, depression, or PTSD • You're curious about psychedelics for personal growth and self-love • You want a clinical-yet-human perspective on psychedelic healing You can also find this episode on… YouTube:…

In this episode of the Smarter Not Harder Podcast, Boomer Anderson, Dr. Scott Sherr, Dr. Ted Achacoso, Jodi Duval, and Dr. Allen Bookatz come together for a powerful HOMeHOPe Faculty roundtable exploring the gut — not just as a digestive organ, but as the root of mood, metabolism, immunity, and long-term vitality. This conversation blends systems biology, ancient medicine, and cutting-edge diagnostics to give you a radically holistic view of gut health and what it really takes to heal from within. Join us as we delve into: • How gut health influences brain function, mood, and clarity • The role of trauma and stress in gut dysfunction • Stool testing, diagnostics, and when "more data" isn't better • Probiotics, fiber, and the personalized approach to microbiome support This episode is for you if: • You're chasing mental clarity or performance through your gut • You've tried "gut protocols" but still feel off • You want a clinical, systems-based approach to GI health • You're ready to go beyond buzzwords and…