Finding Genius Podcast

Our bodies are complex ecosystems that require intentional upkeep. While there are many ways to nourish the body, many professionals are finding that preventative approaches to wellness yield the most effective results.  Dr. Sanaz Hariri is a Harvard and Stanford graduate who specializes in orthopedic surgery and sports medicine. As an advisor for a company called 305 Life , Dr. Hariri plays an integral role in their approach to dietary intervention and health-enhancing methods. In addition to her work at 305 Life , Dr. Hariri has been developing her own private practice for 12 years, diagnosing and treating shoulder and knee pain.  Tune in now to learn about: The importance of keeping people away from the operating room with preventative treatment.  The prominent ingredients in 305 Life’s supplements, and how they contribute to your health. Dr. Hariri’s nutritional and lifestyle advice.  To learn more about Dr. Hariri and her work visit www.drsanaz.com ...

In this podcast, we are joined by Indu Navar. Indu Navar is the CEO of Everything ALS , a company that prioritizes bringing awareness to Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and those who suffer from it. ALS is a neurological condition that affects the victim's motor neurons. This causes muscle atrophy all across the body, which can eventually cause suffocation and even death.    Listen now to learn about: The importance of diagnosing neurodegenerative diseases early. What happens to victims of ALS. What the typical onset age for ALS is. How ALS progresses in victims.  We don’t know much about ALS and how to treat it. Indu Navar is dedicated to facilitating more investigation into this condition so that doctors can more effectively treat it. This episode explores how advocacy and citizen research plays an important role in solving ALS and conditions like it. To learn more about Indu Navar and her work at Everything ALS , visit www.everythingals.org . Ep...

Scientists are using the power of mathematics to take action against cancer. These unique analytical methods have contributed to an exciting new approach to cancer investigation and treatment. Joining us on this episode is Dr. Alexander (Sandy) Anderson, Ph.D. Dr. Anderson is the Chair of Integrated Mathematical Oncology at Moffitt Cancer Center. Dr. Anderson researches the mathematical modeling of cancer in order to develop eco-evolutionary therapies that can control cancer – rather than eradicate it.  Listen in to learn about: The “dialogue” between a growing tumor and its changing environment. How scientists are using mathematics to understand complex biological phenomena. What it takes to construct mathematical models that translate to cancer treatment strategies. Is mathematical modeling the future of cancer research? Find out now from a professional at the forefront of this investigative approach.  To find out more about Dr. Anderson and his work, visit www.ma...

How can mathematical models help us better understand how we can combat the evolution of diseases? By understanding how the development progresses, we may be able to alleviate the burden of disease on humankind. Press play to learn: How a single vaccine could protect against all strains of influenza Why a universal vaccine could be effective Possible roadblocks in developing a universal vaccine Sunetra Gupta, a Professor of Theoretical Epidemiology at the University of Oxford, shares her work developing treatments to keep up with the development of various diseases and illnesses. Developing vaccines for various therapeutic applications has been a standard solution to combat illness in a specific period. However, as viruses and other "bugs" evolve, vaccines can become ineffective over time. However, by identifying commonalities between various strains of a virus, developing a more applicable treatment may be possible. For example, if viruses were viewed as wearing di...

Why is finding mental health aid for many new mothers so tricky? Through a lacking mental healthcare system and few resources, it can be challenging for new mothers to find the treatment they need. Listen up to learn: Common symptoms of postpartum depression Why finding a proper diagnosis can be tough to find How mothers can begin entering a supportive community Jen Schwartz, the Founder and CEO of Motherhood Understood, shares her story of postpartum depression and helping other new mothers find the support that can be hard to come by. Many expecting mothers have not been prepared for the possibility of postpartum depression after giving birth. Since recognizing these mental health symptoms can be difficult, finding an effective treatment can be even more challenging. By building a community that new mothers can identify with, it can validate the feelings of struggle many mothers have. Even if only starting by reading without interacting, dipping a tow in is the first step to ...

How does BRCA play a role in new oncology developments? By manipulating the levels, a more vulnerable state can be reached, opening treatment opportunities. Press play to learn: Why new forms of lung cancer may be on the rise The role of the BRCA gene Alternative to targeted radiation and combinations that work better than ever Mark Vincent, a medical oncologist at the London Regional Cancer Centre, discusses how new targets can be treated in emerging fields of oncology. Some cancers have long been thought to be generally untreatable, leaving many patients with little hope. However, with new developments in oncology, no cancer remains entirely untreatable. From studying genes like BRCA and developing new drugs that can target specific traits, even small metastasis can be shrunk. Moreover, by using a more local approach, even lower doses of chemo may truly destroy tumors in the near future. Visit https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Mark-Vincent to learn more. Episode also av...

What makes microplastics so dangerous? Their ability to spread so quickly can make them near impossible to prevent. Listen in to learn: How microplastics spread Why microplastics may be aerosolized How modeling the air and water exchange phenomena can produce new insight Moritz Lehmann, a Ph.D. candidate in physics at the University of Bayreuth, shares his work modeling the spread of microplastics throughout the environment. Microplastics have presented themselves as one of the most significant dangers to the environment in recent history. However, much is still unknown surrounding their spread and long-term effects.  Using computer modeling, a better understanding of their origin and spread can be gained, and new solutions to stop it can be produced. Hopefully, if the spread can be controlled, an effort to curb their effects will soon follow.  Visit https://www.sfb-mikroplastik.uni-bayreuth.de/en/participating-scientists/phd-candidates/Moritz-Lehmann/index.php to l...

Does the environment around the parents impact the chance for birth defects? Evidence may support a level of present danger through evidence in mice. Press play to learn: What caused the defects in the studied mouse population The risks of quaternary ammonium compounds The type of exposures that can cause these problems Terry Hrubec, DVM, Ph.D., shares how the environment one is exposed to during gestation can present risks that can be harmful and leave lasting implications. While studying lab mice, Dr. Hrubrec noticed a sudden jump in birth defects among the population. After much investigation, it turned out to result from a new cleaning product used to clean the laboratory where the mice resided. The epigenetic changes may stem from the quaternary ammonium compounds present in the cleaner. Therefore, being cautious about our environment and what a mother is exposed to during gestation can be vital for the child's health. Visit https://www.vcom.edu/people/theresa-hrubec ...

How did a water purifier lead to a range of unintended health benefits for its users? By cultivating hydrogen in the purified water, those who used it could reap the antioxidant properties. Listen up to learn: Why molecular hydrogen is so beneficial to the body The range of ailments that may be relieved through molecular hydrogen The various options available to get molecular hydrogen into the body Dr. Adam Trainor, the CEO of Vital Reaction, shares his experience with the benefits of molecular hydrogen and how it may be able to help you as well! Hydrogen molecules have long been thought to be inert as a gas concerning many possible health benefits. However, this may not be the case, as it is one of the most widely studied health supplements available.  There are tremendous antioxidant properties offered by treating with molecular hydrogen. Due to this, countless folks have found relief for ailments they previously had not been able to curb.  Visit https://www.vital-r...

How can the cast number of microplastics seeping into the environment be mitigated? Through possible legislation and better product design, it is still possible to turn the situation around. Listen up to learn: How microplastics are classified How product design can help stop the production of microplastics What stands in the way of legislation to alleviate the problem Richard Thompson, a Professor and Director of the Marine Institute at Plymouth University, shares his work combatting the effects of microplastics in the environment. Though recent efforts have made incremental progress, microplastics and the degradation of plastic remain significant problems. For example, even the microbeads of plastic in wash-off cosmetics take a tremendous toll on the environment.  However, there is still hope with a more conscious product design process in concert with governmental intervention. Still, there is much work to do to get government agencies to step in and intervene to produce...

In the age of diverse medical thought, it can be difficult to know the best way to approach holistic wellness. Fortunately, there are many brilliant minds that are committed to uncovering solutions to medical problems, we just have to find them.  Joining us today is Dr. Michael Ruscio. Dr. Ruscio is a doctor of natural medicine who has a podcast called Dr. Ruscio Radio: Health, Nutrition, Functional Medicine . As a multifaceted medical professional, author, and speaker, Dr. Ruscio focuses his expertise on educating people about the many benefits of healthy nutrition and natural medicine.  In this episode, Dr. Ruscio discusses: The scientific validity of lab testing in conventional medicine. How analyzing one’s medical history can inform treatment options.  The interconnectivity between gut health other medical conditions.  The importance of individually approaching each patient’s treatment plans.  How are you approaching your own physical wellness? Tun...

Coral reefs are delicate ecological communities that must be taken care of in the face of climate change and other environmental circumstances. Conservationists are discovering more about how to effectively do this the more they investigate the diverse background and genome types of various coral reefs.  Joining us on this episode is Marilyn Brandt, a research associate professor at The Center for Marine and Environmental Studies in the Virgin Islands. Her interest in environmental conservation has been particularly associated with coral reef ecology and the disease research surrounding it. With numerous disease outbreaks occurring in coral reefs, Marilyn is adamant about discovering the causes of these afflictions and how to control them. Listen to discover: The unique characteristics that coral reefs contain. Examples of the coral species that are commonly found in the Caribbean.  How coral reefs react to thermal stress. To learn more about the nature of coral restor...

We know that many diseases are caused by factors such as lifestyle and diet. Unfortunately, the current medical system often offers prescriptions to treat the conditions we are diagnosed with rather than encouraging prophylactic approaches. While this may help to some degree, many nutritionists are more interested in finding ways to prevent diseases that arise from these circumstances altogether, seeking to eliminate the problem before it arises.  David Getoff is the author of Abundant Health in a Toxic World , a book that explores methods of reducing or eradicating causes of human disease through nutrition-based lifestyle changes. As a certified clinical nutritionist and traditional naturopath, David Getoff is internationally recognized as an expert in diet, nutrition, and detoxification treatments, and he uses this knowledge to educate the public with his research.  Listen now to find out: The role of detoxification in the upkeep of human wellness. How contracting acut...

How can children who struggle to learn how to read catch up? Through literacy interventions and tailored support, reading is within reach of everyone! How a decoder can help children bridge the gap The best strategies to help your child  How children can progress after the program Sara Rich, CEO of Just Right Reader, shares her work to help every child succeed in their literacy journey, regardless of the stage at which they find themselves. Literacy can be a challenge for children at a variety of stages along their learning journey. Unfortunately, until recently, tailored support was hard to come by, and children were at risk of falling behind. Using systems that have been proven to work, like decoding and progressive literacy steps, children can find a fun and less frustrating path to reading. At Just Right Reader, various options are available for children throughout a range of literacy stages, allowing families to find the solutions that work for them. Visit https://jus...

How have increasing numbers of folks found relief through CBD? With an easy-to-understand ingredient list and consistent dosing, Relax Babe CBD may be your new best friend. Listen up to learn: How CBD may be able to help you What full-spectrum CBD means What a proper dose of CBD should feel like Lindsey Hogan, the Owner of Relax Babe, shares the wide range of benefits that a consistent and easy-to-use CBD brand can offer the market. In our world of increasingly high demands in every part of life, it can be challenging to relax and unwind at the end of the day. Whether you struggle with stress, sleeplessness, or even anxiety, CBD may be the answer you seek. However, the CBD industry has been notoriously difficult to understand and finding a product that is right for you was tough. Luckily, Relax Babe offers simple and transparent treatments with a variety of great flavors to explore! Visit https://shoprelaxbabe.com to learn more! This episode is sponsored by Relax Babe. To r...

Has the world of medicine turned to over-technical solutions for events and problems with holistic paths to wellness? From pregnancy to stress, the crossroads of spirituality and science may be where the true answers lie. Press play to learn: How acupressure tapping techniques work How the language we use impacts our body Why current medical research may be hampered Karen Curry Parker of the Quantum Revolution Podcast shares her work in the spiritual and medical world, helping the world to realize how to unlock the potential in our future. When Karen Curry Parker realized the birth process might be becoming denaturalized and holistic solutions were more effective in her personal life, a switch flipped. From coaching others in their lives to healing their personal issues, using spirituality and science has shown its efficacy. While the current medical world rejects many of the alternative treatments and tends to hamper research and treatment, it may be incredibly effective for i...

In the late 80s, vegan or even vegetarian registered dieticians were impossible to find … until Brenda Davis made the transition. Finding herself alone, without even the resources to back up her work as a vegan dietician, she considered changing careers. But instead, she found the courage to speak her truth and make a difference. Davis is now regarded as the “Godmother” of vegan dieticians, and is an author and internationally acclaimed public speaker. Tune in to learn: Under what circumstances it might not make sense to adhere to a strictly plant-based diet The importance of supplementing a vegan diet with B12 Why some people who make the transition to veganism feel worse, and how to transition properly in order to avoid this The incredible health benefits of eating primarily or entirely plant-based   Davis dives into the details of what it means to be vegan, and how to do it the right way. She also shares insights from a comparative study following cohorts of plant-base...

What makes new discoveries about ion channels in relation to cancer? With recent developments and techniques, revolutionary therapeutic methods may be on the horizon. Listen up to learn: How an ion channel functions Why voltage-gated ion channels are crucial Why some cells proliferate but don't die Saverio Gentile, an assistant professor in the Department of Medicine at the University of Illinois at Chicago, shares his work researching ion channels in cancer cells. Cancer has been one of the most mysterious and complex to treat conditions present in recent history. While the current treatments have severe side effects and other negative implications, ion channels may offer new opportunities. Ion channels are highly selective proteins that play a significant role in the function of cells. By changing the cell's charge, the various functions and metabolism can be manipulated, allowing for the development of new therapeutic techniques to treat cancer. For more information...

Joining us today is Patricia Stott, who is part of Elevation Wellness, a treatment center centered around a holistic approach to health and wellness. In this episode, Patricia will be discussing her research and treatment of conditions such as Ehler’s-Danlos Syndromes (EDS), autoimmune disorders, and Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders. As a person that suffers from EDS herself, Patricia is dedicated to the restorative therapy practices surrounding EDS and disorders like it using her background in physical therapy and athletic training.  In this episode, you will learn about: How Elevation Wellness is treating chronic and acute injuries. The importance of educating general practitioners about these conditions. The systemic issues that occur with hypermobility disorders. What are the intricacies surrounding these unique conditions? Find out now by tuning in to this enlightening conversation with Patricia Stott and her distinct insight into this topic. To learn more about Patric...

Decades of chronic stress led to Scott Lifer nearly collapsing in the middle of a restaurant, feeling absolutely certain that he was about to die. It was a horrible experience for him, but one that would prompt him to look in the mirror and finally make a major change. Tune in to learn more about Lifer’s story and explore The difference between endogenous and situational depression, and how Western medicine overlooks one of them The relationship between internalized fear, something called tension myositis, and damage to the physical body The critical connection between depression and vitamin D, and why we can never get enough of it from the sun OR from most supplements The #1 precursor to postpartum depression, and how it is mistreated Lifer is now the CEO and founder of Wake Up Sense, a holistic healing platform offering information and products you won’t find in Western medicine. At the fundamental level, Wake Up Sense products use orthomolecular science, which is just a fanc...

How are microplastics harmful to humans? Researchers are determined to find out what microplastics can do to human health, and how to limit their contamination in our food and water. Evangelos Danopoulos is a public and environmental health professional with an interest in pollution and how it affects human beings’ overall wellness. With a background as a public health officer and as a Ph.D. student studying medical science with a focus on microplastics, Evangelos Danopoulos analyzes the risks to human health as it relates to emerging environmental contaminants.  Tune in now to learn about: How evidence-based environmental health policies are formulated. What microplastics are, and how they pollute food and water.   The process necessary to test water for microplastics.  Hear about this and more in this episode addressing the issues surrounding microplastics and what we can do to mitigate the problem by learning more about them.  You can learn more abou...

Why is the Australian dragon so fascinating? Since they can change gender based on the temperature in the egg, they can offer insight into several aspects of environmental temperature impact, among much else. Press play to learn: How temperature determines the sex The function of epigenetic modifiers How there can be more sex chromosomes than we initially thought possible Jennifer A. Marshall Graves, a Distinguished Professor and Vice-Chancellors Fellow at La Trobe University, speaks about her research on Australian dragons and various other Australian animals' sex determination. Genes are the primary building blocks that determine all of the traits we acquire during gestation. However, for many species, external factors can play a significant role during incubation or gestation in determining the sex of animals like the Australian dragon. Even in mammals, which we previously thought set in sex chromosomes, there can be bizarre differences between humans and the rest of the...

Can snake venom be used in medicine for humans?  This seems like a trick question, but in fact, researchers are developing medicines that utilize different properties of snake venom that are actually beneficial to human beings. Jacob Galan is an assistant professor at the National Natural Toxins Research Center in The Department of Chemistry Texas A&M. He joins us on this podcast to discuss his research in venom toxinology, and his focus on obtaining snake venom in order to develop antivenoms and other biomedical products.  Listen now to learn about: The toxicity and lethality of snake venom, and how it can be utilized in medicine. How antivenom is obtained and used.  Commonalities and differences of snake venoms around the world.  The hypotheses Jacob Galan is currently testing in his lab. Discover all of this and more by diving into this episode examining the thrilling subject of snake venom! To find out more about Jacob Galan and his research, you ...

Why are injections still the most prevalent delivery method of vaccination? Well, through the development of nasal delivery and other methods, it might soon be phased out. Listen up to learn: What causes injection site sarcoma in cats The only currently available nasal vaccine The risk of vaccine shedding Biao He, the Fred C. Davison Distinguished University Chair In Veterinary Medicine, discusses the possible development of an alternative delivery method of vaccination. Aside from the sometimes significantly harmful effects of injection-based vaccination in our pets, many folks are still needle-averse. So, this begs the question: why are there no alternative options when seeking the protection offered by vaccines? Carrying the payload of the material responsible for protecting the immune system is the primary goal of vaccination. However, the question of shedding remains, leaving the viability of different delivery methods up in the air. Visit https://vet.uga.edu/person/biao_...

Why does so much trash wind up in our waterways? Without proper action much farther upstream than preventing the last stages of littering, changes can be challenging to make. How effective litter booms may be How trash buildups can impact the bacterial microbiome The levels of microplastics present in consumer products. Sherri A. "Sam" Mason, Ph.D., the Director of Sustainability at Penn State Eerie Behrend, shares their work on sustainability and how trash makes its way into the water. Litter has been a problem for much of our recent history, destroying ecosystems and causing irreparable damage in some cases. However, with the rise of plastics and other difficult-to-decompose materials, this issue is only exacerbated. By looking in bodies of water for microplastics, the more significant issue, on the whole, is attempting to determine how these make their way from the store to the waterways. This is a problem for the consumer as well since microplastics that make thei...

Why has Gout been an incredibly challenging condition for many individuals to treat? Even though treatments have been developed and used, Gout flares can remain, being an incredibly painful and diminishing quality of life. Listen up to learn: the predominant problem for patients with Gout the specific gene that should be tested for Why Gout tophi can cause issues Nihar Bhakta, the CMO of Aristea Therapeutics, speaks about treating Gout and giving patients lasting relief. Gout has long troubled patients, causing severe inflammatory reactions and limiting motion and quality of life. However, lowering uric acid is the primary treatment method and can remain challenging for some patients. If patients are mistreated over time, they can go on to develop kidney issues, which may even begin to turn chronic. Hopefully, with further development, Aristea and a handful of other companies can produce treatments to reduce uric acid while limiting possible adverse effects. Visit https://aris...

On this podcast, we are joined by David Berlinski, who is a widely published author and academic mind. He is here to talk about his most recent literary work, Human Nature , as well as his other books that discuss topics such as the scientific method and mathematics. With an extensive background in academics, David Berlinski has used this knowledge to fuel his writing ventures in a strikingly sophisticated way.  In this episode, we analyze:  How the philosophy of mathematics transcends our knowable universe. What it means to characterize our limitations as humans.  If there is such a thing as human nature , and if can we define it. The importance of making intellectual discourse accessible to a wide audience.  Examining the world from such a distinct point of view is what enhances human consciousness as we know it. Coming from the mind of an individual that is able to sum these topics up in such an eloquent way is truly a marvel to witness. To find out mor...

Psychedelics are commonly thought of as substances that are purely used for recreation, but researchers are continuing to find that there is much more to them than just that. Given the effect that pychoplastis have on the human neurological system, many professionals have found that they can be used for medical applications as well.  Dr. David Olson is an Associate Professor at the UC Davis Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine here to talk about “psychedelics without tripping”. As a chemical neuroscientist, Dr. Olson focuses his research on medicines designed to treat a vast array of brain disorders. Dr. Olson has found that certain psychedelic compounds have been shown to promote neurological growth, and he is determined to uncover their mechanisms of action in order to treat symptoms with as much efficacy as possible. This episode highlights: How removing the hallucinogenic aspects of psychedelics makes them more accessible to individuals in a medical setting....

Plastic is a product that is in the vast majority of manufactured products. The trouble is, plastic is a substance that takes many years to decompose, resulting in a drastic buildup of products that have the potential to harm plants and animals.  Joining us today is husband and wife team Steve and Deonie Allen to discuss atmospheric microplastics, and their impact on the environment. Both Steve and Deonie have traveled the world researching how plastics impact both our planet and its inhabitants. Listen now to discover: How microplastics travel to remote locations via the wind. What products contribute to the world’s plastic problem. What role waste management systems play in microplastic pollution. How to identify microplastics in daily life.  What does the future hold for a planet littered with microplastic? Find out now from the research duo leading the charge on this issue! To find out more about Steve and Deonie Allen and their investigations, visit their websit...

Is there an invisible epidemic that is the underlying cause of more problems than we may initially think? Stemming from mental illness and trauma, the negative impacts on many facets of society have been severely detrimental. Press play to learn: What the invisible epidemic consists of How healing personal trauma can help others How to take the first step  Psychiatrist and consultant Dr. Paul Conti shares his work healing trauma and helping the world out of the invisible epidemic. The positive and negative feelings we hold on a daily basis inevitably end up spilling over and affecting the world around us. By working to heal our traumas and building the goodness within, we can improve the world around us on a personal level. However, this change requires a deeply personal understanding and recognizing the chronic trauma we have been exposed to. Being able to take stock of what goes on inside all of us will help enable the first steps to be taken. Visit https://www.drpaulcon...

How is sex determined in reptiles if sex chromosomes are absent? Through environmental factors like temperature, genetics can be altered, and sex can be finalized. Press play to learn: How incubation can make three genders in central bearded dragons Markers being used to determine the effect of climate change on the studied reptiles How environmental cues are sensed by cells and transduced into genetic changes Sarah Whiteley, a Post-doctoral Fellow in the Institute for Applied Ecology at the University of Canberra, shares her work researching environmentally sensitive sex determination in central bearded dragons. Human sex at birth is determined by sex chromosomes and is rarely, if ever, determined by the environment during gestation. However, for some species of reptiles like the central bearded dragon, their gender is determined by environmental factors like temperature. Gene expression is one of the most common forms of this, which can cause sex reversal and changes. This is...