Podcasts about Human services

John DiMatteo, Director of Human Services for Erie County joins us.

You’re listening to American Ground Radio with Louis R. Avallone and Stephen Parr. This is the full show for May 28, 2026. We open with a constitutional showdown between the Department of Justice and four sanctuary states that are refusing to provide confidential license plates to federal immigration agents. The DOJ argues these states are deliberately obstructing federal law enforcement by denying undercover protections to ICE and Border Patrol agents while continuing to provide those same protections to state and local police. We examine where the line exists between non-cooperation and outright obstruction, why the fight is about much more than license plates, and how this battle could reshape the ongoing conflict between sanctuary jurisdictions and federal immigration enforcement. We also cover the swatting attack targeting Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett, the shocking arrest of a former CIA executive accused of stealing more than $40 million from taxpayers, and a new Department of Justice investigation into E. Jean Carroll over allegations she may have provided false testimony regarding the funding of her lawsuit against President Trump. Later, we discuss reports of a federal judge under investigation for misconduct inside her own chambers and ask what happens when the people entrusted with upholding the law become the source of the scandal themselves. American Mamas Teri Netterville and Kimberly Burleson join us for one of the most fascinating conversations we've had in a while after a man awakens from a medically induced coma convinced he lived an entirely different seven-year life complete with a wife, children, and a successful business. We explore the mysteries of the human brain, vivid dreams, coma experiences, and why some people struggle to separate imagined lives from reality. In New York City, Mayor Zoran Mamdani is once again generating controversy after discussing plans that critics say amount to government seizure of private property from landlords deemed "bad" by city officials. We break down the constitutional questions surrounding property rights, eminent domain, and whether the proposal represents a dangerous expansion of government power. We then dig into an unexpected critique from the left. Salon magazine argues the Democratic Party's post-election autopsy is focused on messaging failures while ignoring a deeper problem: the policies themselves. We examine why even some progressive voices are beginning to question whether Democrats' platform is increasingly disconnected from the concerns of everyday Americans. Plus, encouraging economic data, growing business optimism despite global uncertainty, new protections for religious liberty inside the Department of Health and Human Services, controversy surrounding New York City's mayor skipping the Israel Day Parade, and a look at the new commemorative quarter honoring America's 250th anniversary. Listen now wherever you get your podcasts, visit AmericanGroundRadio.com, and join the conversation at 866-AGR-1776!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's West Coast Cookbook & Speakeasy Podcast for our especially special Daily Special, River City Hash Mondays is now available on the Spreaker Player!Starting off in the Bistro Cafe, the Supreme Court and the Treasury Department are both working overtime to cover up for the fact that Justice Sam Alito's lawyer son is secretly working as a senior attorney in the Treasury Department.Then, on the rest of the menu, America's most powerful TV networks have been handing out coveted congressional press credentials to people Congress has strictly barred from eligibility; Trump ordered the Department of Health and Human Services to cut the number of vaccines recommended for every American child by half; and, Trump branded the federal judge who blocked his renovation of the Kennedy Center as “an anti Trump Hater” and predicted that the nation's premier performing arts center will “soon be closed, probably never to open again.”After the break, we move to the Chef's Table where the Iran war has forced farmers to seek organic alternatives away from chemical fertilizers; and, South Africa's mostly Black World Cup squad will leave for the tournament today after problems with US travel visas delayed their departure.All that and more, on West Coast Cookbook & Speakeasy with Chef de Cuisine Justice Putnam.Bon Appétit!The Netroots Radio Live PlayerKeep Your Resistance Radio Beaming 24/7/365!“I was never a spy. I was with the OSS organization. We had a number of women, but we were all office help.” — Julia ChildBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/west-coast-cookbook-speakeasy--2802999/support.

12 - The left's bias is showing in… sports? How does the story of Washington Nationals pitcher Trevor Williams similar to the Jaxson Dart situation? Dom somehow holds his tongue while listening to Ryan Clark. 1215 - Side - everyday menaces to society 1220 - Your calls here. 1230 - Rosie Pino, Republican Candidate for Congress in New Jersey's 9th District, joins us this afternoon as she is planning a pro-ICE rally at Delaney Hall in Newark on Saturday. Why do this? What does Rosie have to say about her progressive opponent? 1250 - The Friday Five: 5 People You Wouldn't Want to Take a Picture With. 1 - Your calls to kick off the hour. 120 - Why is America's 250th celebration in DC suddenly “partisan” to all the acts that have dropped out? Can you be a feminist and celebrate Islam? 130 - Republican Candidate for Governor and PA Treasurer is here again this afternoon. Why is Stacy taking a stance against the way Pennsylvania is handling AI? How stunning is the outcry at local town halls over the ire regarding building data centers? How much money is Josh Shapiro raking in from pro-AI donors? What's next for the Garrity campaign? 145 - Now that we officially know who Congressman Ryan Mackenzie's opponent is, we can dissect him, as Ryan joins us today. What does Ryan think of Bob Brooks defrauding his in-laws? Why did he defraud his parents-in-law over a property? What else is fraudulent about Brooks? How is the AI data center problem up in Ryan's area? 2 - Joining the show for another weekly installation on foreign affairs, Dr. Victoria Coates is here! What is her view on this proposed ceasefire from Iran that Trump is mulling over right now? How will sanctions from this deal handicap an already struggling Iranian economy? How much stronger do inspections of Iran have to be in order for the US to feel secure? How is Israel helping the UAE and other surrounding countries with their national defense? What is the new approach with Cuba? Is it book time? 210 - Your calls. 215 - Dom's Money Melody! 225 - Teasing the rest of the show. 235 - Former United States Assistant Secretary of Health and Human Services for Public Affairs Michael Caputo rounds out the week. Is he the first person to ask to join the Anti-Weaponization Fund? Just how deep does the weaponization of government go? What shocking revelation did Michael come across in his research into his predicament of being investigated by the FBI? If someone like Hunter Biden wants in on the fund, will that make this idea that much harder for this to come to fruition? 240 - Your calls. 250 - The Lightning Round!

2 - Joining the show for another weekly installation on foreign affairs, Dr. Victoria Coates is here! What is her view on this proposed ceasefire from Iran that Trump is mulling over right now? How will sanctions from this deal handicap an already struggling Iranian economy? How much stronger do inspections of Iran have to be in order for the US to feel secure? How is Israel helping the UAE and other surrounding countries with their national defense? What is the new approach with Cuba? Is it book time? 210 - Your calls. 215 - Dom's Money Melody! 225 - Teasing the rest of the show. 235 - Former United States Assistant Secretary of Health and Human Services for Public Affairs Michael Caputo rounds out the week. Is he the first person to ask to join the Anti-Weaponization Fund? Just how deep does the weaponization of government go? What shocking revelation did Michael come across in his research into his predicament of being investigated by the FBI? If someone like Hunter Biden wants in on the fund, will that make this idea that much harder for this to come to fruition? 240 - Your calls. 250 - The Lightning Round!

Send us Fan MailJaneen Balsimo, a retired Minnesota state employee, spoke with Liz Collin on her podcast about what she believes to be yet another kind of Somali fraud involving workers' comp cases and “fake employees” with “fake injuries.”She explained how "it seemed like 50% of my work comp cases … were Somali cases” — and how up to $150,000 was awarded for injuries.Balsimo said that it wasn't until watching Nick Shirley's viral video that she recognized some familiar business names while working in the tort recovery unit for the Minnesota Department of Human Services.“I thought about it, I thought, wow, so the fraud went as far as the employee was a fake employee, probably with fake injuries, because there is no people at these places,” she said.Support the show

Welcome to The Georgia Politics Podcast! On this episode, former U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services and former Congressman Tom Price reflects on the life, career, and lasting legacy of longtime Georgia Congressman David Scott. Price discusses Scott's decades of public service, his influence on Georgia politics, and the impact he made as one of the state's most prominent Democratic leaders. The conversation explores Scott's work in Congress, his advocacy on economic and agricultural issues, and the relationships he built across party lines during a changing political era in Georgia. The episode also looks at how Scott's career shaped the state's political landscape and what his legacy means for the future of leadership in Georgia and beyond. Connect with The Georgia Politics Podcast on Twitter @gapoliticspod Hans Appen on Twitter @hansappen Craig Kidd on Twitter @CraigKidd1 Lyndsey Coates on Instagram @list_with_lyndsey Proud member of the Appen Podcast Network.

In this episode of the Pregnancy Help News Brief, Lisa Bourne covers the latest headlines impacting the pregnancy help movement, including inspiring stories from abortion pill reversal moms, the launch of U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' new resource site for mothers (moms.gov) ongoing legal battles surrounding mifepristone, and encouraging developments in postpartum support and pro-life advocacy. Stay informed on these developments and more at PregnancyHelpNews.com. Have an idea for a Pregnancy Help News Story? Click Here! Heartbeat International provides a forum to express a marketplace of ideas for an audience of life-affirming pregnancy help organizations and those who support such organizations. The ideas, views and opinions expressed in this presentation are those of the presenter and may or may not reflect advice, opinions, policies or views of Heartbeat International, Inc. Presenters come from a wide range of experiences and backgrounds, inside and outside of the Pregnancy Help Movement. We encourage listeners or viewers to do their own additional research and discern for themselves how to apply the materials presented. Share Post Share

-- On the Show: -- Xavier Becerra, former Secretary of Health and Human Services now running for Governor of California, joins us to discuss the campaign -- Democrats prepare House investigations into Donald Trump focused on Epstein files, alleged family corruption and more if they retake Congress -- JD Vance is becoming isolated inside Donald Trump's White House as Marco Rubio gains influence and allies connected to Vance resign -- Internet conspiracy theories explode after a shooter opens fire near the White House and Secret Service agents return fire -- Donald Trump returns to Walter Reed for another medical evaluation as questions grow about his overall physical condition -- Kevin Hassett argues grocery prices are rising because refrigerator regulations close stores, while also claiming higher spending is good -- Donald Trump posts aggressively on Truth Social overnight in yet another online public political meltdown -- Donald Trump struggles through a Memorial Day speech, nearly falls asleep during Hegseth's remarks, and claims he took over Venezuela -- On the Bonus Show: Paxton vs. Cornyn runoff today in Texas, Tulsi Gabbard resigns as DNI, Hasan Piker is subpoenaed after Cuba trip, and much more...

OA1264 - Sherise Doyley was in the early stages of labor, in a hospital bed, preparing to deliver her baby, when nurses wheeled in a computer. On the screen was a judge, notifying her of an emergency order by the State of Florida to attempt to force her to undergo a C-section, instead of first attempting vaginal delivery. For 3 hours she advocated for herself, without an attorney, barely covered in a hospital gown. How was any of this legal? What is happening? Jenessa breaks down the history of our rights to make our own medical decisions and how that is legally modified in pregnancy, Lydia shares her own birth experience and how these situations could be handled with actual compassion, and Thomas holds very still in hopes our eyes are based on movement (just kidding, Thomas is very supportive and also outraged). Come rage against the machine with us and hopefully breathe life into a revived pro-choice movement, before it's too late. Amy Yurkanin (Mar. 14, 2026), They Didn't Want to Have C-Sections. A Judge Would Decide How They Gave Birth, ProPublica. Video clips of Doyley hearing, provided by ProPublica's Facebook page Anuli Njoku, Marian Evans, Lillian Nimo-Sefah, & Jonell Bailey (2023). Listen to the Whispers before They Become Screams: Addressing Black Maternal Morbidity and Mortality in the United States, 11 Healthcare 438. Brad N. Greenwood, Rachel R. Hardeman, Laura Huang, & Aaron Sojourner (2020), Physician–patient racial concordance and disparities in birthing mortality for newborns, 117 Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences 21194. Maternal Mortality Prevention (Dec. 18, 2025). Data from the Pregnancy Mortality Surveillance System, CDC. Bracey Harris & Elizabeth Chuck (Jan. 9, 2026), 'Her worst fear has come to pass': Midwife who advocated for Black women dies after giving birth, NBC News. Camila Domonoske (Apr. 17, 2018), 'Father Of Gynecology,' Who Experimented On Slaves, No Longer On Pedestal In NYC, NPR. Megan L. Swanson, Sara Whetstone, Tushani Illangasekare, & Amy (Meg) Autry (2021), Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reparations: The Debt We Owe (and Continue to Accumulate), 5 Health Equity 353. Nicole Loy (May 16, 2025), Pain and Gynecology: Raising Standards of Care, The Healthcare Review at Cornell University. Jess Mador (July 29, 2025), A Brain-Dead Pregnant Woman Was Kept Alive in Georgia. It's Unclear if State Law Required It, KFF Health News. (June 2025), Pregnancy Exceptionalism: A Review of Restrictions on Advance Directives, Pregnancy Justice. U.S. Const. amend. IX Jacobson v. Massachusetts, 197 U.S. 11 (1905) Rochin v. California, 342 U.S. 165 (1952) Cruzan v. Director, Missouri Dep't of Health, 497 U.S. 261 (1990) Washington v. Harper, 494 U.S. 210 (1990) Roe v. Wade, 410 U.S. 113 (1973) Planned Parenthood of Southeastern Pa. v. Casey, 505 U.S. 833 (1992) Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization, 597 U.S. 215 (2022) Heller v. Doe, 509 U.S. 312 (1993) State Dept. of Human Services v. Northern, 563 S.W.2d 197 (1978) Lane v. Candura, 6 Mass. App. Ct. 377 (1978) Koskenoja v. Whitmer, Mich. Ct. Cl. (2026) (Apr. 20, 2026), Michigan Pregnancy Exclusion Law is Unconstitutional, Compassion & Choices. Check out the OA Linktree for all the places to go and things to do!  

About this episode: In the city of Baltimore, the health department works to prevent overdose, reduce violence, provide vaccinations, inspect restaurants, and so much more. In this episode: Host Stephanie Desmon leads a panel discussion with five Baltimore City Commissioners of Health who collectively served over three decades. They swap stories and speak candidly about the challenges and opportunities of the role. Guests: Dr. Peter Beilenson, MPH, is a lecturer at the Johns Hopkins Kreiger School of Arts & Sciences. He served as the Baltimore City Commissioner of Health from 1992 to 2005. Dr. Letitia Dzirasa is the Deputy Mayor of Health and Human Services with the City of Baltimore. She served as the Baltimore City Commissioner of Health from 2019 to 2023. Dr. Josh Sharfstein is distinguished professor of the practice in Health Policy and Management, a pediatrician, and former secretary of Maryland's Health Department. He served as the Baltimore City Commissioner of Health from 2005 to 2009. Dr. Michelle Taylor, DrPH, MPA, is the Baltimore City Commissioner of Health. She also serves in the Tennessee Air National Guard, and she previously led operations at the Shelby County Health Department. Dr. Leana S. Wen, MSc, is a physician and professor of health policy and management at George Washington University. She served as the Baltimore City Commissioner of Health from 2014 to 2018. Host: Stephanie Desmon, MA, is a former journalist, author, and the director of public relations and communications for the Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs. Show links and related content: Health Commissioner Michelle Taylor is Betting on Baltimore—Public Health On Call (May 2026) Baltimore's Record Low in Homicides—Public Health On Call (November 2025) Baltimore's Back-to-Back Mass Overdoses—Public Health On Call (September 2025) B'More for Healthy Babies: A Look Back at 15 Years of Infant Mortality Reduction in Baltimore—Public Health On Call (May 2025) Transcript information: Looking for episode transcripts? Open our podcast on the Apple Podcasts app (desktop or mobile) or the Spotify mobile app to access an auto-generated transcript of any episode. Closed captioning is also available for every episode on our YouTube channel. Contact us: Have a question about something you heard? Looking for a transcript? Want to suggest a topic or guest? Contact us via email or visit our website. Follow us: @‌PublicHealthPod on Bluesky @‌PublicHealthPod on Instagram @‌JohnsHopkinsSPH on Facebook @‌PublicHealthOnCall on YouTube Here's our RSS feed Note: These podcasts are a conversation between the participants, and do not represent the position of Johns Hopkins University.

President Donald Trump will make an announcement in the Oval Office with EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin on Thursday at 11 a.m. ET.U.S. National Institutes of Health Director Jay Bhattacharya is testifying before the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee's Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies in a hearing on the agency's Fiscal Year 2027 budget request.

Washington, DC, May 21, 2026 —This month's podcast episode from the National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO) includes an update on a series of Congressional hearings where Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), Robert F. Kennedy Jr., testified on the administration's Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27) President's Budget Request. The President's budget request outlines the administration's funding priorities and proposed policy changes for the coming fiscal year. While the President's budget is not binding on Congress, it provides an important signal of proposed investments, program eliminations, and structural shifts that could significantly affect public health infrastructure. A full analysis of the administration's FY27 budget request can be reviewed on NACCHO Voice. NACCHO submitted testimony in support of federal public health to the House and Senate, to help inform their work in developing a final FY27 funding law. Updates are also provided on the FY27 Agriculture-FDA spending bill's status, which advanced through the House Appropriations Committee, and would impact key nutrition, tobacco, and regulatory programs.   Later in the program (7:50), Tommy George, Public Health Epidemiology Supervisor at Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department (LLCHD) in Nebraska and guest speaker at the 2026 Preparedness Summit, joins the podcast to discuss the department's wastewater monitoring program. Lancaster County has two wastewater treatment facilities, and both sites recover up to 25 million gallons of water per day. Through LLCHD's WastewaterSCAN system, the team can track several potential public health threats including measles, mpox, and a wide range of respiratory viruses. George shared that the department stays actively engaged with the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services by making sure collected data is regularly shared and discussed. As a member of NACCHO's Wastewater Monitoring Mentorship Program, George highlighted innovations and challenges in wastewater monitoring shared by mentees and provided recommendations for starting a new program.   ###   About NACCHO The National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO) represents the over 3,300 local governmental health departments across the country. These city, county, metropolitan, district, and tribal departments work every day to protect and promote health and well-being for all people in their communities. For more information, visit www.naccho.org.

The Department of Health and Human Services carried out widespread layoffs a year ago. Now it's sending out a second wave of reduction in force notices. HHS says these are more targeted layoffs, targeting employees it missed when their offices and programs were eliminated last year. All of this is happening as HHS embarks on a hiring surge. Federal News Network's Jory Heckman has more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Congressional Democrats want answers from the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency https://cyberscoop.com/cisa-credential-leak-congress-demands-answers/ on GitHub in an incident that the security researcher who discovered it called one of the worst leaks he's ever seen. Other security professionals also voiced concern Tuesday about the leak and the potential for abuse by any malicious parties who got a hold of the information. Security firm GitGuardian said it discovered a public GitHub repository last week that exposed credentials for privileged AWS GovCloud accounts and internal CISA systems dating back to November. The repository, apparently maintained by a contractor, was named “Private-CISA.” Krebs on Security first reported the incident. A GitGuardian researcher said his main fear upon verifying the leak was real “is that a state actor will get the data and might be able to do bad stuff.” State-based attackers who obtained the credentials “might be able to gain persistence,” the researcher said, calling it worse than an attacker destroying a database or having an intruder gain access to a government system. The Office of Personnel Management would get a better handle on the federal biotechnology workforce under a pair of bills from a bipartisan House duo. Introduced Wednesday, the Federal Biotechnology Workforce Assessment Act directs OPM to coordinate with agency heads on defining the federal biotech workforce, in addition to assessing current and future needs for those “bio-literate” federal employees. The bill from Reps. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., and Rich McCormick, R-Ga., shared first with FedScoop, is aimed at ensuring the federal government workforce keeps the country a step ahead of China in the biotech space. Priority No. 1 for OPM's assessment is identifying the total number of biotech positions required at federal agencies. The legislation is focused specifically on the departments of Agriculture, Commerce, Defense, Energy, Health and Human Services, Homeland Security, Interior, State, and Treasury, as well as the Environmental Protection Agency, the National Science Foundation, NASA, and the offices of the Director of National Intelligence and the U.S. Trade Representative.

Jeff talks to El Paso County Commissioner Bill Wysong about Child Abuse Prevention. They are joined by Rick Gonzales from the Center on Fathering and Jessica Hardwicke from El Paso County Department of Human Services.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After eight traffic deaths in the past two weeks on the Big Island, Hawaii County police are urging drivers to slow down and stay alert to prevent more deadly crashes. A former lawmaker who has been leading the state Department of Human Services has abruptly stepped down. Plus, a possible carbon monoxide leak at a Waipio coffee shop sent one person to the hospital today. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With just days left until the primary SIMON asks "Have you seen, met or heard from ALL of the candidates?" Frustration seems to be building across Iowa that one candidate is difficult to locate. Later, SIMON talks to U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, ROBERT F KENNEDY. He is in Iowa today to celebrate a MAHA bill signed by Governor Kim Reynolds.

U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, ROBERT F KENNEDY JR was in Iowa today for the signing of a leading MAHA bill by Governor KIM REYNOLDS. He and SIMON talk about how this will create change for Iowa children as well as the Surgeon General's report that was released today with some shocking new information about screen times and the effects on our children.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is an American environmental attorney, author, and political figure who is the son of Senator Robert F. Kennedy and the nephew of President John F. Kennedy. He first became known for his work in environmental law, including advocacy for clean water and conservation efforts, before entering national politics and running for president during the 2024 election cycle. As of 2026, he serves as the United States Secretary of Health and Human Services, overseeing federal agencies related to public health, medical research, and healthcare policy.IN THE NEWS: Elon Musk bashes the casting of The Odyssey and criticizes Christopher Nolan, the San Francisco school district comes under fire over a mandatory “ethnic studies” identity course for freshmen, Spencer Pratt fires back at claims that he misled voters about living in a trailer, and famed Hollywood director Adam McKay goes on a furious rant against “white liberals.”GET IT ON! FOR MORE WITH RFK JR:WEBSITE: hhs.govPODCAST: The Secretary Kennedy PodcastFind it at hhs.govFOR MORE WITH MIKE DAWSON:INSTAGRAM: @dawsangelesLIVE SHOWS: May 24 - Costa Mesa, CA (2 Shows)June 12 - Oklahoma City, OK (2 Shows)June 13 - Tulsa, OK (2 Shows)June 20 - Santa Ana, CA (KROQ Doc Screening)Thank you for supporting our sponsors:BollAndBranch.com/acsBetOnlineoreillyauto.com/ADAMPluto.tvQuo.com/ADAMSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Neo News, Ben and Eli tackle the recent, quiet—but massive—public health funding cuts implemented by the Department of Health and Human Services. With $600 million pulled back from four targeted states and additional CDC block grants eliminated, they discuss the severe domestic implications for local health departments, HIV/STI surveillance, and lead poisoning prevention. They also zoom out to examine the global health consequences of the US withdrawing from the WHO. Tune in as the hosts break down why these macro-level policy shifts directly impact the frontlines of neonatal care, from the need to scrutinize prenatal labs more closely to adapting clinical protocols for vulnerable populations and new arrivals.----https://www.nytimes.com/2026/02/11/health/hhs-california-public-health-lawsuit.htmlhttps://www.washingtonpost.com/health/2026/02/19/alternative-world-health-organization-proposal/Support the showAs always, feel free to send us questions, comments, or suggestions to our email: nicupodcast@gmail.com. You can also contact the show through Instagram or Twitter, @nicupodcast. Or contact Ben and Daphna directly via their Twitter profiles: @drnicu and @doctordaphnamd. The papers discussed in today's episode are listed and timestamped on the webpage linked below.Enjoy!

From leadership shakeups at the federal level to one of the largest investments in rural health in decades, public health is navigating a moment of uncertainty and opportunity.  In this episode, ASTHO senior analyst for Government Affairs, Catherine Murphy, unpacks the ripple effects of ongoing changes at the Department of Health and Human Services and the CDC. Workforce reductions, leadership turnover, and shifts in advisory bodies like ACIP are reshaping how guidance is developed, how states access expertise, and how much trust clinicians and communities place in public health recommendations. Later, ASTHO Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Susan Kansagra, zooms out to the state level, where leaders are racing to deploy Rural Health Transformation Program funds under tight timelines and complex compliance requirements. We'll hear comments Dr. Kansagra made at a recent EY educational webinar titled, “Now, Next, and Beyond: Understanding the Rural Health Transformation Program.”Recent HHS Leadership Changes That Impact Public Health | ASTHONow, Next, and Beyond: Understanding the Rural Health Transformation Program | EY - US2026 Multi-country Hantavirus Cluster Linked to Cruise Ship | HAN | CDCThriving Under Pressure: Building Resilient Dialysis Systems and Teams

Episode 2800 - Vinnie Tortorich and Chris Shaffer discuss the effects of ultra-processed foods and ADHD, making school lunches better, and more. https://vinnietortorich.com/2026/05/ultra-processed-foods-ADHD-episode-2800 PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS Pure Vitamin Club Pure Coffee Club NSNG® Foods VILLA CAPPELLI EAT HAPPY KITCHEN YOU CAN WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE - @FitnessConfidential Podcast Vinnie's workout videos are available to purchase! Choose from a 2-day, 4-day, or 6-day workout–or buy all three at a discount! TO PURCHASE VINNIE'S WORKOUT VIDEOS, CLICK THIS LINK: https://vinnietortorich.com/workout Ultra-Processed Foods and ADHD Airline travel can be complicated and frustrating. 2:30) The US Department of Health and Human Services plans to release an official definition of ultra-processed foods. (8:00) Vinnie shares what processed versus ultra-processed foods are. (9:00) Ultra-processed foods damage your focus even if you otherwise eat healthy. A recent study in Australia measured the effect of processed foods on ADHD. (12:30) For every 10% increase in ultra-processed foods, there was a measurable drop in people's ability to focus on cognitive tests. A 10% increase on average was equivalent to that sandwich-sized bag of potato chips! The FDA has stated that up to 70% of children's diets come from ultra-processed foods. (20:00) New York has rolled out a pilot program to reduce UPFs, and although it's early, the results are impressive. They discuss "Postum propaganda" from decades ago. (25:00) Some of the recommendations for schools, although they aim to move in a better direction, still need to include more real protein and healthy fats. (35:00) Your body can have a type of "muscle memory" and "fat memory," and yo-yo dieting demonstrates this effect. (38:45) Approximately every seven years, every cell in your body has turned over. (40:00) But it turns out your immune system has a "memory" as well, and even though you may have lost weight, your body may still see you at risk. Vinnie is not a fan of GLP-1s because your body can get to a healthier point without having to take drugs. It may not happen as quickly as with drugs, but the side effects are not worth it. (41:35) The "no duh" award this week goes to the study that confirms getting a variety of exercise is good for you! (43:16) They discuss pickleball. (47:00) The NSNG® VIP GROUP IS NOW CLOSED AGAIN AS OF SUNDAY, MARCH 15TH Anna's next cookbook, Eat Happy Cocktail Hour, is filled with cocktails, mocktails, and appetizers and is available for pre-order right now. If you pre-order, you'll get bonus goodies! You can preorder from a wide variety of booksellers at https://eathappycocktailhour.com/ Save your receipt from wherever you preorder, you'll need it for your bonuses! Physical Release Date is October 2026 A New Sponsor Jaspr Air Scrubbers has a discount code, VINNIE, that gets you $200 off for a limited time. Jaspr offers a lifetime warranty. Go to Jaspr.co for more information or to purchase. (1:05:00) You can book a consultation with Vinnie to get guidance on your goals. https://vinnietortorich.com/phone-consultation-2/ More News Serena has added some of her clothing suggestions and beauty product suggestions to Vinnie's Amazon Recommended Products link. Self Care, Beauty, and Grooming Products that Actually Work! https://www.amazon.com/shop/vinnietortorich/list/3GPVU29UHHPMY?ref_=aipsflist Don't forget to check out Serena Scott Thomas on Days of Our Lives on the Peacock channel. "Dirty Keto" is available on Amazon! You can purchase or rent it here.https://amzn.to/4d9agj1 Please make sure to watch, rate, and review it! Eat Happy Italian, Anna's second cookbook, is available! You can go to https://eathappyitalian.com You can order it from Vinnie's Book Club. https://amzn.to/3ucIXm Anna's recipes are in her cookbooks, on her website, and on Substack —they will spice up your day! https://annavocino.substack.com/ PURCHASE DIRTY KETO (2024) The documentary launched in August 2024! Order it TODAY! This is Vinnie's fourth documentary in just over five years. Visit my new Documentaries HQ to find my films everywhere: https://vinnietortorich.com/documentaries Then, please share my fact-based, health-focused documentary series with your friends and family. Additionally, the more views it receives, the better it ranks, so please watch it again with a new friend! REVIEWS: Please submit your REVIEW after you watch my films. Your positive REVIEW does matter! PURCHASE BEYOND IMPOSSIBLE (2022) Visit my new Documentaries HQ to find my films everywhere: https://vinnietortorich.com/documentaries FAT: A DOCUMENTARY 2 (2021) Visit my new Documentaries HQ to find my films everywhere: https://vinnietortorich.com/documentaries FAT: A DOCUMENTARY (2019) Visit my new Documentaries HQ to find my films everywhere: https://vinnietortorich.com/documentaries

Photo by Vitalii Pavlyshynets on Unsplash Secretary of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., continues to push forward his Make America Healthy Again or MAHA agenda that has been both hailed for its attention to things like nutrition and chemical exposures, and criticized for what some see as its inadequacies in being evidence based and detracting from the importance of protecting the public against infectious diseases. On April 15, 2026, MedPage Today published a commentary on whether Kennedy’s approach to MAHA is more political marketing than evidence-based health guidance. The commentary was written by Adam Brown, MD, Contributing Writer to MedPage Today, a board-certified emergency medicine and lifestyle medicine physician, and founder of ABIG Health that advises healthcare organizations on strategy and innovation. He is a past President of Emergency Medicine at Envision Healthcare and currently a professor at UNC Chapel Hill at Kenan-Flagler Business School and a visiting professor of business at ESCP Business School in London and Paris. HealthCetera producer and host Diana J. Mason, PhD, RN, talked with Dr. Brown about his views on MAHA and its promotion by Kennedy. This interview first aired on HealthCetera in the Catskills on April 22, 20026. The post A Commentary on Make America Healthy Again appeared first on HealthCetera.

President Trump landed in Beijing on Monday ahead of a meeting with Chinese regime leader Xi Jinping. The president was greeted with a red carpet arrival paired with a welcoming ceremony. Trump was also traveling with top officials and business leaders including Elon Musk and Jensen Huang. Trump is expected to discuss trade, while the Iran war, Taiwan and human rights are also likely to take center stage.The Department of Health and Human Services says one U.S. passenger showing symptoms tested negative for the hantavirus. That passenger and their partner are currently in quarantine in Atlanta, Georgia, while the other 16 Americans are currently asymptomatic. The CDC says exposed passengers are being monitored by public health officials in multiple states and that the overall risk to the American public remains low.Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows annual inflation rose to 3.8% in April, with economists forecasting a jump to 3.7%. Core inflation, which excludes volatile energy and food prices, edged up to 2.8%. On a month-to-month basis, April prices rose 0.6% from March, with gas prices rising 5.4%. Grocery prices rose 0.7%. Labor Department data showed gas prices are up more than 28% compared to a year ago.

Attorney General Kwame Raoul's office has charged 56-year-old Deborah Mazeika with several felony counts including theft, fraud and forgery. Raoul alleges Mazeika submitted false claims to the Illinois Department of Human Services and received payments for services she claimed she administered to people with severe disabilities during times that she was working in-person at another job.

Attorney General Kwame Raoul's office has charged 56-year-old Deborah Mazeika with several felony counts including theft, fraud and forgery. Raoul alleges Mazeika submitted false claims to the Illinois Department of Human Services and received payments for services she claimed she administered to people with severe disabilities during times that she was working in-person at another job.

Moments after recording this episode of The Weekly, FDA Commissioner Marty Makary announced his resignation. Reports first circulated last Friday that President Donald Trump had signed off on his ouster. The president initially denied this account, originally from The Wall Street Journal, on Saturday morning, but appears to have now confirmed the plan. This confusion underscores a key theme in Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s health department: lack of transparency and clear communication. Makary's exit also highlights the high level of senior leadership turnover across the Department of Health and Human Services. With Makary is on his way out, the FDA will reportedly be helmed by an acting commissioner, Kyle Diamantas. This would also be fitting for an agency whose two key review divisions—the Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER) and Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER)—are currently led by temporary directors. Meanwhile, one of Makary's key initiatives, the Commissioner's National Priority Review (CNPV) program, hit a snag last week as Sanofi has reportedly requested that the FDA remove its diabetes prevention drug Tzield from the scheme. This comes after acting CDER director Tracy Beth Høeg apparently intervened in the drug's review. And in the business realm, BioSpace kicks off our annual compensation report. Who made the most money in 2025? Was it Eli Lilly's David Ricks or Johnson & Johnson's Joaquin Duato? Read BioPharm Executive to find out. Not subscribed? Sign up here for all of BioSpace's insightful newsletters.

The Minnesota Department of Human Services is making sure providers of high-risk Medicaid services have the right paperwork, training, and insurance on file. Over 5,500 Medicaid providers are required to go through revalidation by the end of May. If you're one of these providers, Sheletta tells you how to follow the steps to ensure compliance and avoid missing out on funding on the latest episode of her autism podcast. mn.gov/dhs/revalidate-steps

Attorney General Kwame Raoul's office has charged 56-year-old Deborah Mazeika with several felony counts including theft, fraud and forgery. Raoul alleges Mazeika submitted false claims to the Illinois Department of Human Services and received payments for services she claimed she administered to people with severe disabilities during times that she was working in-person at another job.

As Donald Trump has tried to use the Department of Justice as his personal tool for petty revenge and political intimidation, the department's track record has been abysmal and its frequent mistakes, mortifying. Rachel Maddow takes a look at the degradation Trump has brought to a once-distinguished facet of American government. While the hantavirus is not an emergency in the U.S., the situation has highlighted the importance of a competent government public health apparatus and the fact that the U.S. is not as well provided for as it once was in that area. Rachel Maddow looks at the disarray at the Department of Health and Human Services. Rachel Maddow shares details of a new satirical video game from the Secret Handshake activist group that mocks the Trump administration's stumbling through its disastrous war on Iran. The game, "Operation Epic Furious: Strait To Hell," is playable as an old-school arcade game in a special installation in Washington, D.C., but also for free in an internet browser. Michelle Kuppersmith, executive director of the Campaign for Accountability, talks with Rachel Maddow about the legal fight to bring accountability to Trump administration officials who have lost all inhibition with regard to exploiting conflicts of interest. The rush by Deep South Republicans to dissolve majority Black congressional districts in the wake of Donald Trump's Supreme Court gutting the Voting Rights Act has sparked a wave of outraged pushback and legal action. Kristen Clarke, general counsel for the NAACP, talks with Rachel Maddow about the fight to prevent a backslide of the achievements of the civil rights era in the face of Republican eagerness to turn back the clock. Want more of Rachel? Check out the "Rachel Maddow Presents" feed to listen to all of her chart-topping original podcasts.To listen to all of your favorite MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, we break down two major policy developments shaping public health, corporate accountability, and medical freedom in America. First, we examine the bipartisan House vote that removed a controversial pesticide liability shield from the Farm Bill — a move advocates are calling a “major win” for farmers, consumers, and families seeking accountability from chemical manufacturers. We explore what the provision would have done, why opposition grew across party lines, and what this means for future pesticide litigation and agricultural policy.Then, we turn to the Department of Health and Human Services' new strategy aimed at reducing overmedicalization through psychiatric medications. We discuss the growing national debate around prescription practices, concerns over long-term psychiatric drug use, and how federal health agencies say they plan to encourage more balanced, evidence-based mental health care moving forward.From environmental health to mental health reform, this episode unpacks the political, scientific, and ethical questions driving two of the week's most closely watched health policy stories.www.georgebatista.comwww.johnhenrysoto.com

What if loneliness isn't just an emotion… but one of the most dangerous biological threats to your health? In this deeply personal and scientifically explosive solo episode, Darin opens up about something he recently realized in his own life: despite being surrounded by people, he was lonely. But what began as an emotional realization quickly became a deep dive into some of the most shocking research he's ever uncovered, showing that chronic loneliness may increase the risk of heart disease, dementia, cancer, autoimmune dysfunction, accelerated aging, and early death. From inflammatory gene expression and cortisol dysregulation to oxytocin, vulnerability, and the collapse of real human connection in the digital age, this episode reveals why loneliness may be the most overlooked "fatal convenience" of modern life, and how vulnerability may be the medicine. What You'll Learn Why loneliness is a biological crisis, not just an emotional feeling The shocking link between loneliness and heart disease, dementia, and early death Why the quality of your relationships is the #1 predictor of long-term health How loneliness activates inflammatory genes inside your body The role of cortisol, sleep disruption, and chronic stress in social isolation Why social media and "surface-level connection" are replacing real intimacy The connection between loneliness and Alzheimer's disease How oxytocin and genuine connection reduce inflammation Why vulnerability is the gateway to meaningful relationships Practical ways to create deeper connection starting today Chapters 00:00:33 – Sponsor: the truth about the exploding NAD supplement market 00:01:04 – Why supplement verification and transparency matter 00:02:17 – Opening: Darin admits something deeply personal 00:02:30 – "I realized recently… I'm lonely" 00:02:37 – The difference between being surrounded by people vs being truly known 00:03:06 – Loneliness as a biological experience, not just an emotional one 00:03:27 – The hidden risks: heart disease, dementia, cancer, early death 00:03:45 – Why this is not fringe science 00:04:13 – The most important predictor of long-term health 00:04:34 – Why relationship QUALITY matters more than quantity 00:05:06 – The global loneliness epidemic 00:05:11 – U.S. Surgeon General advisory on loneliness 00:05:39 – Loneliness declared a public health crisis 00:06:02 – 50% of Americans report measurable loneliness 00:06:22 – "A generational collapse of connection" 00:06:30 – 29% of adults have no close friends 00:06:40 – Face-to-face interactions dramatically declining 00:07:01 – The UK, Japan, and Australia loneliness crisis initiatives 00:07:32 – The paradox: hyperconnected but deeply isolated 00:08:04 – Loneliness as a biological alarm signal 00:08:31 – What loneliness actually looks like in modern life 00:08:42 – The lonely CEO, the unseen mother, the isolated social media addict 00:09:31 – "Perceived social isolation" and why the brain can't tell the difference 00:10:21 – Meta-analysis of 3.4 million people 00:10:55 – Loneliness vs obesity and smoking risk comparisons 00:11:18 – The biology of loneliness begins 00:11:50 – NF-kB: inflammatory gene activation explained 00:12:33 – How loneliness changes gene expression 00:13:02 – Chronic inflammation and disease pathways 00:13:21 – Cortisol, sleep disruption, and immune dysfunction 00:14:00 – How loneliness affects brain repair and amyloid plaque clearing 00:14:21 – Sponsor: Fatty15 and cellular health 00:18:02 – The Alzheimer's and dementia connection 00:18:25 – Loneliness as a major modifiable dementia risk factor 00:18:57 – Cortisol, neuroinflammation, and brain degeneration 00:19:16 – The hippocampus physically shrinking in lonely people 00:19:27 – Social media as a "fatal convenience" 00:19:57 – The oxytocin economy: connection as medicine 00:20:15 – Oxytocin as one of the body's strongest anti-inflammatory molecules 00:20:30 – HeartMath research: emotional synchronization between people 00:20:48 – "You regulate each other's biology" 00:21:07 – The real barrier: vulnerability 00:21:32 – Darin's recent experiences with radical vulnerability 00:21:54 – Conversations with family, ex-partners, and loved ones 00:22:35 – Brené Brown's research on connection and worthiness 00:23:14 – The "depth audit" exercise 00:23:42 – Reaching out, expressing appreciation, and owning your emotions 00:24:01 – Sacred hours: spending time without phones 00:24:13 – Questions that create real intimacy 00:24:30 – Darin's emotional conversation with his brother 00:25:03 – Protecting yourself from social media disconnection 00:25:20 – Becoming a source of joy and connection in everyday life 00:25:25 – Darin reflects on seven years of subtle loneliness 00:25:48 – The shift from surface conversations to meaningful connection 00:26:01 – "If you want love, give love" 00:26:19 – Final message: generate the connection you want to receive 00:26:22 – Closing thoughts and outro Thank You to Our Sponsors Truniagen: Go to www.truniagen.com and use code DARIN20 at checkout for 20% off Fatty15: Get an additional 15% off their 90-day subscription Starter Kit by going to fatty15.com/DARIN and using code DARIN at checkout. Join the SuperLife Community Get Darin's deeper wellness breakdowns — beyond social media restrictions: Weekly voice notes Ingredient deep dives Wellness challenges Energy + consciousness tools Community accountability Extended episodes Join for $7.49/month → https://patreon.com/darinolien Connect with Darin Olien: Website: darinolien.com Instagram: @darinolien Book: Fatal Conveniences Platform & Products: superlife.com New Show: Roadmap to Happiness Key Takeaway "Loneliness isn't weakness. It isn't failure. It's a biological signal telling you that something essential is missing. And in a world addicted to surface-level connection, the real medicine may simply be this: vulnerability, presence, eye contact, honesty, and the courage to let yourself truly be seen." Bibliography/Sources The Loneliness Epidemic & Public Health Data Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023). American time use survey. U.S. Department of Labor. https://www.bls.gov/tus/ Cigna. (2023). Cigna U.S. loneliness index. Evernorth Health Services. https://newsroom.cigna.com/loneliness-epidemic-continues-to-rise-cigna-study Murthy, V. H. (2023). Our epidemic of loneliness and isolation: The U.S. Surgeon General's advisory on the healing effects of social connection and community. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/surgeon-general-social-connection-advisory.pdf Survey Center on American Life. (2021). The state of American friendship: Change, challenges, and loss. American Enterprise Institute. https://www.americansurveycenter.org/research/the-state-of-american-friendship-change-challenges-and-loss/ Mortality & Systemic Health Risk Cohen, S., Doyle, W. J., Skoner, D. P., Rabin, B. S., & Gwaltney, J. M. (1997). Social ties and susceptibility to the common cold. JAMA, 277(24), 1940–1944. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9200634/ Hawkley, L. C., & Cacioppo, J. T. (2010). Loneliness matters: A theoretical and empirical review of consequences and mechanisms. Annals of Behavioral Medicine, 40(2), 218–227. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20396846/ Holt-Lunstad, J., Smith, T. B., Baker, M., Harris, T., & Stephenson, D. (2015). Loneliness and social isolation as risk factors for mortality: A meta-analytic review. Perspectives on Psychological Science, 10(2), 227–237. https://doi.org/10.1177/1745691614568352 Valtorta, N. K., Kanaan, M., Gilbody, S., Ronzi, S., & Hanratty, B. (2016). Loneliness and social isolation as risk factors for coronary heart disease and stroke. Heart, 102(13), 1009–1016. https://heart.bmj.com/content/102/13/1009 Genetics, Inflammation & The Immune System Cole, S. W. (2013). Social regulation of human gene expression: Mechanisms and implications for public health. American Journal of Public Health, 103(S1), S84–S92. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3786756/ Cole, S. W., Hawkley, L. C., Arevalo, J. M. G., Sung, C. Y., Rose, R. M., & Cacioppo, J. T. (2007). Social regulation of gene expression in human leukocytes. Genome Biology, 8(9), Article R189. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2375027/ Sleep & Cognitive Decline Cacioppo, J. T., Hawkley, L. C., Berntson, G. G., Ernst, J. M., Gibbs, A. C., Stickgold, R., & Hobson, J. A. (2002). Do lonely days invade the nights? Potential social modulation of sleep efficiency. Psychological Science, 13(4), 384–387. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12137144/ Holwerda, T. J., Deeg, D. J. H., Beekman, A. T. F., et al. (2014). Feelings of loneliness, but not social isolation, predict dementia onset. Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry, 85(2), 135–142. https://jnnp.bmj.com/content/85/2/135 Oxytocin & The Biology of Connection Szeto, A., Sun-Suslow, N., Mendez, A. J., Hernandez, R. I., Wagner, K. V., & McCabe, P. M. (2017). Regulation of the macrophage oxytocin receptor in response to inflammation. American Journal of Physiology—Endocrinology and Metabolism, 312(2), E183–E189. https://journals.physiology.org/doi/full/10.1152/ajpendo.00424.2016 Uvnas-Moberg, K. (2003). The oxytocin factor: Tapping the hormone of calm, love, and healing. Da Capo Press. https://books.google.com/books?id=b-aKjQoB_nQC Psychology, Vulnerability & Relationship Science Aron, A., Melinat, E., Aron, E. N., Vallone, R. D., & Bator, R. J. (1997). The experimental generation of interpersonal closeness. Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, 23(4), 363–377. https://doi.org/10.1177/0146167297234003 Brown, B. (2010). The gifts of imperfection: Let go of who you think you're supposed to be and embrace who you are. Hazelden Publishing. https://brenebrown.com/book/the-gifts-of-imperfection/ Cacioppo, J. T., & Patrick, W. (2008). Loneliness: Human nature and the need for social connection. W. W. Norton & Company. https://wwnorton.com/books/9780393335286 Dunbar, R. I. M. (2012). Bridging evolutionary approaches to the social brain and social bonding. In F. B. M. de Waal & P. F. Ferrari (Eds.), The primate mind. Harvard University Press. https://www.hup.harvard.edu/books/9780674063104 Dunbar, R. I. M. (2021). Friends: Understanding the power of our most important relationships. Little, Brown and Company. https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/robin-dunbar/friends/9781408711736/ Waldinger, R., & Schulz, M. (2023). The good life: Lessons from the world's longest scientific study on happiness. Simon & Schuster. https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/The-Good-Life/Robert-Waldinger/9781982166694

What employers should know about key developments this week: DOL Proposes Joint Employer Rule: The Department of Labor (DOL) has proposed a rule reinstating the economic realities test for joint employer liability under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), the Family and Medical Leave Act, and the Migrant and Seasonal Agricultural Worker Protection Act, prompting employers with subcontractors, franchises, or subsidiaries to assess their exposure before the June 22 comment deadline. Fifth Circuit: Misclassification Alone Isn't Enough: The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit upheld a verdict denying overtime pay to a misclassified worker, finding that, under the FLSA, an employer cannot be liable for overtime of which it had no knowledge. I-9 and Accessibility Rules Tighten: Immigration and Customs Enforcement has reclassified nearly all Form I-9 errors as uncorrectable "substantive" violations subject to significant fines. Separately, health care organizations receiving Department of Health and Human Services funding face a May 11 web accessibility deadline that is not covered by the Department of Justice's recent Americans with Disabilities Act Title II extension. Visit our site for this week's Other Highlights and links: https://www.ebglaw.com/eltw433 Subscribe to #WorkforceWednesday: https://www.ebglaw.com/eltw-subscribe Visit http://www.EmploymentLawThisWeek.com - Epstein Becker Green is a national law firm that focuses its resources on health care, life sciences, and workforce management solutions, coupled with powerful litigation strategies. This video is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Viewing this video does not create an attorney-client relationship.  EMPLOYMENT LAW THIS WEEK® and #WorkforceWednesday® are registered trademarks of Epstein Becker & Green, P.C. © Epstein Becker & Green, P.C. All Rights Reserved. Attorney Advertising.

The Hermantown City Council voted last night to table a vote on a massive Google data center. The tech giant wants to build a nearly $2 billion complex in the city near Duluth. And Minnesota's newly named temporary commissioner for the Department of Human Services is out on medical leave for at least the next month. Those stories and more in today's evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Privacy Please, Cameron Ivey investigates Palantir Technologies — a data analytics company founded in 2003 with CIA backing that has quietly become embedded across nearly every major arm of the U.S. federal government.This week's investigation covers:The USDA Deal On April 22nd, the Department of Agriculture signed a $300 million blanket purchase agreement with Palantir to build "One Farmer, One File" — a unified digital profile for every American farmer. The deal was awarded without competitive bidding.The IRS Bombshell The same week, The Intercept revealed — based on documents obtained by watchdog group American Oversight — that Palantir has been running financial crime surveillance operations inside the IRS since 2018. The IRS has paid Palantir over $130 million for access to a platform that cross-references bank records, tax filings, transaction histories, and more across millions of Americans.The Immigration Enforcement Machine Palantir's ICE contracts — now over $145 million — power the agency's case management, deportation targeting, and real-time location tracking of immigrants. A tool called ELITE creates individual dossiers on deportation targets by pulling data from the Department of Health and Human Services.The Pushback That's Working New York City's public hospital network canceled its Palantir contract after community organizing and City Council pressure. In the UK, 229,000 people have signed petitions to remove Palantir from the National Health Service. Public pressure is moving the needle.Five Things You Can Do Right Now Cameron closes with specific, actionable steps every listener can take — from requesting your IRS transcript to freezing your credit to contacting your representative about sole-source contracting.Privacy Please is part of the Problem Lounge Network. New episodes weekly. theproblemlounge.comChapter Markers 00:00 — Cold Open01:30 — Intro & Show Welcome02:45 — Act One: The USDA Deal06:00 — Act Two: Who Is Palantir?11:30 — Act Three: The Empire Expands (ICE, Policing)17:00 — Act Four: Your Tax Returns Are In There Too24:00 — Act Five: The Layer Nobody's Talking About30:00 — Act Six: The Part That Gives Me Hope34:30 — What You Can Actually Do (5 Tips)39:00 — Closing Reflection (Adjust timestamps after editing)Support the show

Over $1.5 trillion dollars are spent each year across more than 100 federal programs designed to support Americans, and yet people continue to need assistance and poverty still exists. On today's episode of On the Corner of Homelessness & Our Safety Net, hosts Joe Ader and Gwyn Griffith talk with Clarence H. Carter, commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Human Services and author of "Our Net Has Holes in It," to discuss why this is the case and what we can do about it. You can find his book at your local bookstore or here.Guest: Commissioner Clarence H. CarterHosts Joe Ader and Gwyn GriffithProduced by Gwyn Griffith and Lucy PearsonAssistance by Eleanor PiggRecorded at The Spokane Public Library

FQHCs Are Infrastructure: What HR1 Means for Health System Leaders Host: Megan Antonelli Guest: Dr. Adam Aponte, CEO of East Harlem Council for Human Services and Neighborhood Health Center Join us for this episode of Digital Health Talks, where Megan Antonelli, CEO of Health Impact Live, sits down with Dr. Adam Aponte, CEO of East Harlem Council for Human Services and Neighborhood Health Center. A board-certified pediatrician with 25 years of experience, Dr. Aponte was born and raised in East Harlem and has dedicated his career to serving one of America's most underserved communities. In this conversation, he makes a compelling case for why the fight to protect federally qualified health centers is not just a community health story. It is a health system leadership story. In this episode: • How FQHCs serve over 35 million Americans and why they are the backbone of primary care for underserved communities • The real impact of HR1 on Medicaid recipients, including $300 million in projected funding losses for New York FQHCs alone • Why continuous pediatric coverage matters and what is at stake when children lose access to early care • The role of trust in health care delivery and how policy changes compound existing distrust in marginalized communities • Telehealth adoption challenges in East Harlem and the reimbursement barriers that limit its potential for FQHCs • Why investing in early childhood health care is the most effective strategy for reducing long-term health care costs Find all of our network podcasts on your favorite podcast platforms and be sure to subscribe and like us. Learn more at www.healthcarenowradio.com/listen/

The Department of Health and Human Services recently released new guidance that prioritizes childbirth over contraception. Mary Ziegler, UC Davis law professor and the author of Roe: The History of a National Obsession (Yale University Press, 2023) and Personhood: The New Civil War over Reproduction (Yale University Press, 2025), explains what's in the guidance and why she believes that the Trump administration is launching the most serious effort in decades to curb contraception. Photo: Birth control pills and pregnancy tests sit on a pharmacy shelf. (Credit: Sarahmirk/Wikimedia Commons BY CC 4.0)

Two guests joined the podcast to talk about guaranteed income programs. Jamie Hackbarth is a Senior Program Manager at AidKit and Elizabeth Crowe is the Deputy Director of Housing and Human Services at City of Boulder, Colorado. They shared what a direct cash assistance program is and the desired outcomes of the program. They also discussed the Elevate Boulder guaranteed income program and success stories from the program. Host: Lauren Palmer

What does it mean to be human? And how does the answer to that question impact how we view medicine and medical advancements? Bioethicist, Katelyn Walls Shelton, shares an introduction to bioethics in the reproductive health space and gives listeners two questions to ask when considering next steps to take, whether it's about birth control, IVF, or anything in between. We only scratched the surface, so we'll be sure to have her back on soon!NOTE: This episode is appropriate for all audiences.GUEST BIO: Katelyn Walls Shelton is a visiting fellow at the Ethics and Public Policy Center and a recipient of the Robert Novak Journalism Award. She is a women's health policy expert who previously worked at the US Department of Health and Human Services. She graduated from Yale Divinity School and Union University and lives near Washington DC with her husband, John, and their four children.SHOW NOTES:Substack: Technically Human | Katelyn Walls SheltonSubstack: Fertile Faith | Caitlin EstesMinistering to Women Includes Physical Health, Christianity TodayEp. 6: The Pill - Facts about Birth ControlEp. 29: Should we think theologically about fertility? with Dr. Cameron JorgensonEp. 34: Is Contraception a Faithful Choice for Christians?Ep. 135: Can I trust Natural Birth Control?Send Us a Text!Support the showOther great ways to connect with Woven Natural Fertility Care: Learn the Creighton Model System with us! Register here!Get our monthly newsletter: Get the updates!Chat about issues of fertility + faith: Substack Follow us on Instagram: @wovenfertilityWatch our episodes on YouTube: @wovenfertilityLove the content? The biggest gift you could give is to click a 5 star review and write why it was so meaningful! This podcast is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice should consult with a licensed physician. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider regarding a medical condition. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. Neither Woven nor its staff, nor any contributor to this podcast, makes any representations, exp...

What if every time you reached for a packaged snack… you were quietly increasing your risk of a heart attack? In this urgent and deeply personal solo episode, Darin breaks down groundbreaking new research showing that each serving of ultra-processed food may increase cardiovascular risk by over 5%, not over time, but every single time you eat it. This isn't about calories. It's about chemistry, biology, and a system engineered for convenience at the expense of your health. From the shocking data to the underlying mechanisms: gut destruction, visceral fat accumulation, brain hijacking, and toxic exposure, this episode exposes the real cost of ultra-processed food and gives you the tools to reclaim control of your health and your life. What You'll Learn The shocking stat: 5% increased heart risk per serving of ultra-processed food Why ultra-processed foods act like compounding debt on your health The difference between calories vs chemical toxicity in food How emulsifiers and additives destroy your gut microbiome Why ultra-processed foods increase visceral fat around your organs How these foods are engineered to override your brain's satiety signals The hidden toxins from processing and packaging (PFAS, bisphenols, AGEs) Why this crisis disproportionately impacts certain communities The truth: you can't "out-exercise" ultra-processed food damage Practical ways to transition back to real, whole foods Chapters 00:00:04 – Opening: SuperLife mission and setting the stage 00:00:33 – Sponsor: Alkemis Paint and hidden indoor toxicity 00:01:24 – Why conventional paints off-gas harmful chemicals for years 00:02:27 – Cradle-to-Cradle certification and non-toxic living 00:03:24 – Entering the episode: the 5% heart risk question 00:03:34 – The shocking claim: every serving increases heart risk 00:04:16 – Ultra-processed food as "compounding debt" 00:05:08 – Leaning into discomfort as a path to growth 00:06:33 – The convenience trap: food delivered instantly 00:07:15 – The real cost: trading time for lifespan 00:08:07 – 2026 study overview (MESA dataset, 6,800 participants) 00:09:01 – 5.1% increased cardiovascular risk per serving explained 00:09:29 – 66.8% higher risk in high-consumption groups 00:10:08 – Risk is independent of calories, weight, and fitness 00:10:56 – "This is not a calorie story—it's a chemistry story" 00:11:10 – Racial disparities and food system inequality 00:12:08 – Additional studies confirm elevated heart risk 00:13:04 – Global meta-analysis: over 1 million participants 00:13:26 – The conclusion: the science is no longer debatable 00:14:18 – Sponsor: Shakeology and nutrient density 00:15:36 – What is ultra-processed food? (NOVA classification) 00:16:18 – Examples: chips, cereals, protein bars, fast food 00:16:57 – "These foods are engineered—not real food" 00:17:00 – Mechanism #1: gut microbiome disruption 00:18:03 – Emulsifiers and inflammation explained 00:18:49 – Gut inflammation triggers systemic disease 00:19:18 – Mechanism #2: visceral fat accumulation 00:19:56 – Why visceral fat is more dangerous than visible fat 00:20:18 – Mechanism #3: brain hijacking and satiety override 00:20:47 – Engineered foods and addictive eating patterns 00:21:04 – Mechanism #4: toxins from processing and packaging 00:21:30 – PFAS, bisphenols, and chemical contamination 00:21:37 – The solution: whole food first 00:22:02 – Breaking habits and reclaiming control 00:22:20 – Simple swaps: fruit, nuts, whole ingredients 00:23:00 – "If you can't trace it back to a real food, put it down" 00:23:32 – Making whole food convenient 00:24:06 – Batch cooking and preparation strategies 00:24:16 – Personal story: losing a friend to diet-related illness 00:24:40 – The emotional reality: this is life or death 00:25:00 – Community support and accountability 00:25:25 – Call to action: share this message 00:25:41 – Closing: courage, awareness, and living a SuperLife 00:26:23 – Outro Thank You to Our Sponsors: Shakeology: Get 15% off with code DARINO1BODI at Shakeology.com. Alkemis Paint: Go to https://alkemispaint.com/ and use code DARIN10 for 10% off your order. Join the SuperLife Patreon: This is where Darin now shares the deeper work: - weekly voice notes - ingredient trackers - wellness challenges - extended conversations - community accountability - sovereignty practices Join now for only $7.49/month at https://patreon.com/darinolien Connect with Darin Olien: Website: darinolien.com Instagram: @darinolien Book: Fatal Conveniences Platform & Products: superlife.com New Show: Roadmap to Happiness Key Takeaway "Every time you reach for ultra-processed food, you're not just making a small decision—you're compounding a biological cost that your body has to pay later. But the moment you become aware, you reclaim your power. Because the same way those choices can slowly take your health away… different choices, repeated daily, can give it all back." Bibliography/Sources Primary Study — News Hook Haidar, A., Rikhi, R., Watson, K. E., Wood, A. C., & Shapiro, M. D. (2026). Association between ultraprocessed food consumption and cardiovascular disease risk: MESA. JACC: Advances. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jacadv.2025.102516 Supporting Studies — 2026 Willett, Y., Yang, C., Dunn, J., et al. (2026). Consumption of ultra-processed foods and increased risks of cardiovascular disease in U.S. adults. The American Journal of Medicine. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amjmed.2026.01.012 Systematic Reviews & Meta-Analyses Dose-response meta-analysis: UPF consumption and cardiovascular events risk — 20 studies, 1.1M participants. (2024). eClinicalMedicine. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eclinm.2024.102480 Ultra-processed foods and cardiovascular disease: Analysis of three large US prospective cohorts and a systematic review and meta-analysis. (2024). The Lancet Regional Health – Americas. https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanam/article/PIIS2667-193X(24)00186-8/fulltext Mechanisms — Gut, Inflammation & Additives Ultra-processed foods and cardiovascular diseases: Potential mechanisms of action. (2021). Advances in Nutrition. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8483964/ Ultra-processed foods and food additives in gut health and disease. (2024). Nature Reviews. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38388570/ Ultra-processed foods and incident cardiovascular disease in the Framingham Offspring Study. (2021). Journal of the American College of Cardiology. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jacc.2021.01.047 Ultraprocessed foods and their association with cardiometabolic health: A science advisory from the American Heart Association. (2023). Circulation. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001365 Visceral Fat Konieczna, J., et al. (n.d.). Contribution of ultra-processed foods in visceral fat deposition: Prospective analysis nested in the PREDIMED-Plus trial. Clinical Nutrition. https://www.explorationpub.com/Journals/edd/Article/100523 NOVA Classification Monteiro, C. A., Cannon, G., Levy, R. B., et al. (2019). Ultra-processed foods: What they are and how to identify them. Public Health Nutrition, 22(5), 936–941. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30744710/ Policy & Public Health Context American College of Cardiology. (2025). ACC 2025 concise clinical guidance: Front-of-package labeling endorsement. Journal of the American College of Cardiology. U.S. Departments of Agriculture and Health and Human Services. (n.d.). Dietary guidelines for Americans, 2025–2030. https://www.dietaryguidelines.gov General Coverage — News Hook Food Safety Magazine. (2026, April). Study links diets high in ultra-processed foods to increased heart attack, stroke risk. https://www.food-safety.com/articles/11290-study-links-diets-high-in-ultra-processed-foods-to-increased-heart-attack-stroke-risk ScienceDaily. (2026, March). Ultra-processed foods linked to 67% higher risk of heart attack and stroke. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260319074604.htm

In 2024, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was a presidential hopeful running under the banner of “making America healthy again.”Among his most fervent supporters: vaccine skeptics and cynics, nutrition-focused parents and anti-pesticide activists.After dropping out of the presidential contest and endorsing Donald Trump, Kennedy emerged as the president's foremost pick to lead the Department of Health and Human Services.Now, many in the so-called “MAHA coalition” are disappointed with Secretary Kennedy for what they describe as a failure to deliver key reforms to the nation's health and food systems.And, we discuss what the rise in measles and other infectious diseases means about the state of our public health. Secretary Kennedy has repeatedly downplayed recent measles outbreaks and given deeply mixed messages on vaccination.Find more of our programs online. Listen to 1A sponsor-free by signing up for 1A+ at plus.npr.org/the1a.See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.NPR Privacy Policy

Learning how to respond to a SAM.gov sources sought notice is one of the most overlooked skills in government contracting — and in this live session, Eric Coffie does it right in front of you. No theory, no fluff — just a real opportunity pulled from SAM.gov, broken down and filled out from scratch so you can see exactly how it works. Whether you are brand new to govcon or trying to get your first contract, this episode shows you the process that most gurus skip. How to pull SAM.gov opportunities into Google Sheets for free — Eric walks through the exact download steps on SAM.gov, uploads the CSV file into Google Sheets, and filters 300+ live opportunities in real time Why sources sought notices asking for government past performance are traps for new contractors — Eric flags a Canon cameras RFI that required prior federal contracts and explains why responding to those as a new business wastes your time How to respond when the government leaves out furniture specifications — Using a live office furniture sources sought from the Yakima agency, Eric researches comparable solicitations, builds a categories-based spec table, and writes a full capability statement on screen for student Lavanya What to do when micro purchases never show up on SAM.gov — Eric explains why micro purchases are not publicly solicited and how the pipeline conversations you start through sources sought responses are how you eventually get access to them How to team up with nonprofits and local organizations to win grant-funded contracts — Using a diaper distribution program from the Department of Health and Human Services, Eric explains the teaming strategy that lets newer businesses respond with credibility Join the GovCon Giants community, get access to live webinars, templates from the vault, and the support system you need to start winning. EPISODE CHAPTERS: 0:00 - Sponsor message and GovCon Giants show intro 0:44 - How to download SAM.gov opportunities into Google Sheets 5:30 - Walking through the Canon cameras RFI with a live student 11:00 - Why sources sought with past performance requirements hurt new contractors 12:40 - Reviewing bulk fertilizer, punching bags, and niche opportunities 16:00 - Pricing strategy for commercial products sold to the government 18:02 - Diaper distribution grant and teaming with nonprofits to win 20:30 - Why micro purchases never appear on SAM.gov and what to do instead 21:29 - Finding the office furniture sources sought for Yakima agency 30:00 - Researching comparable specs to help shape government requirements 34:04 - Writing a live capability statement for the office furniture bid 39:53 - Finalizing the response and sharing the template with the audience 44:45 - FederalHelpCenter.com resources, upcoming events, and closing If you want to learn more about the community and to join the webinars go to: https://federalhelpcenter.com/ Website: https://govcongiants.org/ Connect with Encore Funding: http://govcongiants.org/funding  

The Washington Stand's Casey Harper reports on the state visit of King Charles III and congressional committee meetings on Health and Human Services and Education. Morgan Griffith, U.S. Representative for Virginia's 9th district, responds to King

 Vaccines are essential to public health, yet the current Department of Health and Human Service leadership has led changes in vaccine recommendations that are not grounded in scientific evidence. Experts Tina Hartert, MD, MPH, Vanderbilt University, and Ryan Maves, MD, Wake Forest University, discuss with host Patti Tripathi the multi-professional society effort to protect and promote a science-based vaccine schedule for patients and health care providers, and to equip individuals with clear, practical ways to advocate for evidence-based immunization policies. 

Join us as we explore practical, evidence-based strategies to help patients age with strength and confidence, and navigate the transition into retirement. We're joined by Dr. Elizabeth Eckstrom (Oregon Health & Science University)!Claim CME for this episode at curbsiders.vcuhealth.org!Patreon | Episodes | Subscribe | Spotify | YouTube | Newsletter | Contact | Swag! | CMEShow Segments Intro Case Navigating Retirement Staying Physically Active Benefits of Tai Chi Nutrition Mobility limitations/chronic pain Osteoporosis Anti-aging/memory supplements  Community Resources  Outro Credits Written and Produced by: Ashlee Randolph DO, Rachel Miller MD Show Notes, infographic, cover art: Ashlee Randolph DO, Rachel Miller MD Hosts: Matthew Watto MD, FACP; Paul Williams MD, FACP    Reviewer: Leah Witt, MD Showrunners: Matthew Watto MD, FACP; Paul Williams MD, FACP Technical Production: PodPaste Guest: Elizabeth Eckstrom MD, MPH DisclosuresDr. Elizabeth Eckstrom reports no relevant financial disclosures. The Curbsiders report no relevant financial disclosures. The production of this episode was supported by the Penn Geriatrics AGE-SMART Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Grant. This podcast content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the Health Resources and Services Administration or the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Sponsor: BabbelRight now get up to 60% off your Babbel subscription – at Babbel.com/CURBSponsor: Continuing Education CompanyVisit CMEmeeting.org/curbsiders and use promo code Curb30 for 30% off all online courses and webcasts.  Sponsor: Locumstory.comLocumstory.com is literally just a free, unbiased resource dedicated to educating physicians about locums.

What if one of the biggest health threats on Earth… is something you can't see, taste, or even fully measure yet? In this urgent solo episode, Darin breaks down the rapidly escalating crisis of microplastics and nanoplastics infiltrating our bodies, water systems, and environment. What was once dismissed is now being acknowledged at the highest levels, with government agencies scrambling to understand and contain the damage. From plastics crossing the blood-brain barrier to disrupting hormones and carrying toxic chemicals deep into human tissue, this episode exposes the hidden cost of modern convenience, and more importantly, gives you practical, immediate actions you can take to protect yourself and your family. What You'll Learn Why microplastics are now considered a global health emergency How plastics accumulate in your body and environment The shocking truth about nanoplastics crossing the blood-brain barrier How plastics act as endocrine disruptors affecting hormones The connection between plastics and inflammation, fertility, and disease Why tap water and bottled water are both major exposure sources The role of PFAS ("forever chemicals") in long-term health damage How to filter and detox microplastics from your body Emerging science on breaking down plastics using bacteria and plants Simple, actionable steps to dramatically reduce your exposure Chapters 00:00:00 – Welcome to SuperLife 00:02:12 – Opening: committing to a clean, conscious life 00:02:27 – Fatal conveniences and why awareness matters 00:02:46 – Government officially flags microplastics as a crisis 00:03:04 – $100M+ initiatives to understand plastic contamination 00:03:38 – Microplastics in drinking water and daily exposure 00:04:20 – Plastics found in babies and human brains 00:04:45 – Why we still don't understand the full damage 00:05:08 – Nanoplastics crossing the blood-brain barrier 00:05:33 – Plastics as endocrine disruptors 00:06:02 – Hormonal imbalance, inflammation, and toxicity 00:06:30 – PFAS and the "forever chemical" crisis 00:06:59 – The #1 rule: stop using single-use plastic bottles 00:07:27 – Hidden dangers of "BPA-free" plastics 00:07:58 – Why you can no longer trust tap water 00:08:30 – The importance of high-quality water filtration 00:09:11 – Reverse osmosis systems and best practices 00:10:17 – Detox strategies: sweating and sauna use 00:10:59 – Fiber and plant-based diets binding toxins 00:11:24 – Medicinal mushrooms and beta glucans 00:11:52 – Microbes that break down plastic polymers 00:12:32 – Plant-based flocculants (okra, fenugreek) removing plastics 00:13:20 – Bio-sponges and advanced filtration innovations 00:13:46 – Magnetic separation technology 00:14:27 – Microplastics from clothing and laundry systems 00:15:16 – AI-assisted filtration and regulatory changes 00:15:55 – Light-activated breakdown of plastics 00:16:03 – Boiling water to remove up to 90% of microplastics 00:16:33 – Practical emergency water filtration methods 00:16:59 – Creating a low-toxicity lifestyle at home 00:17:20 – Final message: take control and protect your health 00:17:32 – Outro     Thank You to Our Sponsors Tru Niagen – Boost NAD+ levels for cellular health and longevity. Get 20% off with code DARIN20 at truniagen.com. Shakeology – Shakeology-All in One Nutrition: Get 15% off with code SUPERLIFE at Shakeology.com.     Join the SuperLife Patreon: This is where Darin now shares the deeper work: - weekly voice notes - ingredient trackers - wellness challenges - extended conversations - community accountability - sovereignty practices Join now for only $7.49/month at https://patreon.com/darinolien     Connect with Darin Olien: Website: darinolien.com Instagram: @darinolien Book: Fatal Conveniences Platform & Products: superlife.com New Show: Roadmap to Happiness     Key Takeaway: "We are living in a world where convenience has quietly introduced toxins into nearly every aspect of our lives, but you are not powerless. The moment you become aware, you can take action. And the small choices you make every day: what you drink from, how you filter your water, what you put into your body, can dramatically shift your long-term health and your family's future."     Bibliography/Sources: The News Hook — EPA CCL6 & STOMP Initiative Chemical & Engineering News. (2026, April 3). US government targets microplastics for research and potential drinking-water regulation. American Chemical Society. https://cen.acs.org Environmental Protection Agency. (2026, April 2). EPA takes bold action to ensure drinking water is safe from microplastics, pharmaceuticals, and potential hidden contaminants [Press release]. https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases Environmental Protection Agency & Department of Health and Human Services. (2026, April 2). EPA, HHS announce historic actions to protect Americans from microplastics and safeguard drinking water [Press release]. https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases Inside Climate News. (2026, April 3). EPA flags microplastics as 'priority' water contaminants, but the move doesn't guarantee regulation. https://insideclimatenews.org National Public Radio. (2026, April 2). EPA flags microplastics, pharmaceuticals as contaminants in drinking water. https://www.npr.org STAT News. (2026, April 2). EPA to put microplastics on study list of contaminants in drinking water. https://www.statnews.com The New Lede. (2026, April 2). EPA flags microplastics as 'priority' contaminants in drinking water. https://thenewlede.org U.S. Government. (2026). Public comment docket: EPA-HQ-OW-2022-0946. https://www.regulations.gov The Science — Brain Invasion & Cellular Damage ACS Environment & Health. (2025). Neurotoxicity of micro- and nanoplastics: A comprehensive review of CNS impacts. American Chemical Society. https://pubs.acs.org Journal of Nanobiotechnology. (2025). Maternal nanoplastic exposure led to impaired neuronal development in the fetal cortex. Springer Nature. PubMed Central. (2023). Micro-/nanoplastics breach the blood-brain barrier: Biomolecular corona's role revealed. National Institutes of Health. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov PubMed Central. (2024). A review on micro- and nanoplastics in humans: Translocation of barriers and potential health effects. National Institutes of Health. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov PubMed Central. (2025). Overall effects of microplastics on brain. National Institutes of Health. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov ScienceDirect. (2025). Mechanisms of micro- and nanoplastics on blood-brain barrier crossing and neurotoxicity. Elsevier. https://www.sciencedirect.com The Science — Endocrine Disruption & Gut Health eClinicalMedicine. (2026). Phthalates attributed to nearly 2 million preterm births globally. The Lancet. Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology. (2024). Microplastics, human health, and the gut microbiome. Frontiers. https://www.frontiersin.org Frontiers in Endocrinology. (2023). A review of the endocrine disrupting effects of micro and nano plastic in mammals. Frontiers. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. (2025). Micro- and nanoplastics as disruptors of the endocrine system. MDPI. https://www.mdpi.com PubMed Central. (2025). Microplastics, endocrine disruptors, and oxidative stress. National Institutes of Health. Solutions — Filtration & Global Removal Technologies ACS Applied and Environmental Microbiology. (2024). Eco-microbiology: Discovering biochemical enhancers of PET biodegradation by Piscinibacter sakaiensis. American Chemical Society. ACS Omega. (2025). Thermostability and activity improvements of PETase from Ideonella sakaiensis. American Chemical Society. Environmental Science & Technology Letters. (2024). Drinking boiled tap water reduces human intake of nanoplastics and microplastics. American Chemical Society. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.estlett.4c00081 Srinivasan, R., et al. (2025). Fenugreek and okra polymers as treatment agents for the removal of microplastics from water sources. ACS Omega. https://doi.org/10.1021/acsomega.4c07476 Yoshida, S., et al. (2016). A bacterium that degrades and assimilates poly(ethylene terephthalate). Science.  

The government is finally catching up to what biohackers have known for decades, and the man helping lead that charge just sat down with Host Dave Asprey to talk longevity science, aging biomarkers, dietary overhaul, AI in medicine, and what a real science-first health agenda actually looks like. Watch this episode on YouTube for the full video experience: https://www.youtube.com/@DaveAspreyBPR Jim O'Neill served as Deputy Secretary of Health and Human Services and Acting Director of the CDC before being nominated to lead the National Science Foundation in March 2026. Before entering government, he was CEO of SENS Research Foundation, where he led cutting-edge regenerative medicine research targeting mitochondrial mutations, senescent cells, and neocortex rejuvenation. He is a 30-year veteran of health care reform and a genuine longevity insider. Dave and Jim cover the complete rewrite of federal dietary guidelines, the government's new randomized controlled trials on saturated fats, and why grains are no longer the core of a "balanced diet." They dig into a 144 million dollar ARPA H program to establish causal aging biomarkers that will unlock real anti-aging drug development and accelerate the kind of longevity research the SENS Foundation pioneered. Jim explains why current aging clocks and DNA methylation markers are not enough, and what comes next for functional medicine, sleep optimization, and metabolism research. They also break down the CDC's return to its infectious disease core, the future of AI in health care, wearable data for disease surveillance, organ bioprinting, GLP-1s, supplements like vitamin D, peptides, and the right to self-experiment. You will learn: Why the new federal dietary guidelines finally reject grain-centric nutrition and validate what the biohacking world has argued for 25 years How a 144 million dollar government program aims to build the causal biomarkers that will make real anti-aging and longevity drug development possible What Jim thinks about DNA methylation clocks and why better tools are needed to measure aging and human performance How AI is reshaping prescription refills, clinical decision support, Medicare reimbursement, and the future of functional medicine Why Jim wears an Oura Ring and uses sleep optimization data to make daily health decisions The government's evolving stance on peptides, supplements, and therapies that are not patent protected How organ bioprinting using a patient's own cells could solve the organ shortage crisis What real science replication looks like and why the government is now funding it What the CDC is doing to refocus on infectious disease while shedding mission creep How GLP-1s, fitness tracking, and updated nutrition strategies could significantly cut national obesity rates within five years Thank you to our sponsors! - Neuronic | Go to www.neuronic.online Code DAVE for $100 off - iRestore | Reverse hair loss with www.irestore.com/DAVE and get exclusive savings on the iRestore Elite, use code DAVE - Go to timeline.com/dave and save 20% with code DAVE20 - Superstratum Labs | Get Dave's exact home mold detox kit and save 10% at superstratumlabs.com/products/dave Dave Asprey is a four-time New York Times bestselling author, founder of Bulletproof Coffee, and the father of biohacking. With over 1,000 interviews and 1 million monthly listeners, The Human Upgrade brings you the knowledge to take control of your biology, extend your longevity, and optimize every system in your body and mind. Each episode delivers cutting-edge insights inhealth, performance, neuroscience, supplements, nutrition, biohacking, emotional intelligence, and conscious living. New episodes are released every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday (BONUS). Dave asks the questions no one else will and gives you real tools to become stronger, smarter, and more resilient. Keywords: Jim O'Neill, CDC, HHS, dietary guidelines, saturated fat, aging biomarkers, ARPA H, SENS Research Foundation, longevity, anti-aging, senescent cells, mitochondria, DNA methylation, sleep optimization, Oura Ring, AI healthcare, organ bioprinting, GLP-1, peptides, vitamin D, supplements, functional medicine, biohacking, Dave Asprey, human performance, metabolism Resources: • Learn more at: https://www.hhs.gov/ • Get My 2026 Clean Nicotine Roadmap | Enroll for free at https://daveasprey.com/2026-clean-nicotine-roadmap/ • Dave Asprey's Latest News | Go to https://daveasprey.com/ to join Inside Track today. • Danger Coffee: https://dangercoffee.com/discount/dave15 • My Daily Supplements: SuppGrade Labs (15% Off) • Favorite Blue Light Blocking Glasses: TrueDark (15% Off) • Dave Asprey's BEYOND Conference: https://beyondconference.com • Dave Asprey's New Book – Heavily Meditated: https://daveasprey.com/heavily-meditated • Join My Substack (Live Access To Podcast Recordings): https://substack.daveasprey.com/ • Upgrade Labs: https://upgradelabs.com Timestamps: 00:00 – Trailer 01:15 – Dietary Guidelines Overhaul 06:48 – Misinformation & Scientific Integrity 10:26 – Longevity vs. Chronic Disease 13:03 – Aging Biomarkers & ARPA-H 14:31 – CDC's Refocus on Infectious Disease 16:55 – Alternative Therapies & Biohacking 19:21 – Health Trackers & Privacy 22:27 – AI in Healthcare 24:01 – Diet, Supplements & School Meals 27:31 – Food Safety, Pesticides & Peptides See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Negotiations to end joint U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran stalled after 21 hours of talks in Pakistan involving Vice President J.D. Vance. In response, President Trump is preparing a U.S.-led blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, aiming to strip Tehran of its leverage over global energy markets. Former Deputy National Security Advisor Victoria Coates joins the Rundown to discuss Iran's weakening economy, the strategic advantage of record U.S. energy production ahead of the President's summit with China's President Xi, and how shifting Middle East alliances are helping isolate the regime. Microplastics seem to be turning up everywhere, raising new concerns about their potential impact on our health. The federal government is launching STOMP, the Systematic Targeting of Microplastics. The initiative is a joint effort between the Department of Health and Human Services and the Environmental Protection Agency to better measure, study, and potentially remove these contaminants. Alicia Jackson, Director of the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health, joins the Rundown to discuss what scientists are discovering and what it could mean for the future of public health. PLUS, commentary by FOX New contributor, Joe Concha PHOTO CREDIT: ASSOCIATED PRESS Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices