Podcasts about McMaster University

It's In the News.. a look at the top headlines and stories in the diabetes community. This week's top stories: CRISPR modified cell transplant for type 1, risk of T1D if parent has a different type of diabetes, Metformin and the brain, oral GLP-1, and more! Find out more about Moms' Night Out  Please visit our Sponsors & Partners - they help make the show possible! Learn more about Gvoke Glucagon Gvoke HypoPen® (glucagon injection): Glucagon Injection For Very Low Blood Sugar (gvokeglucagon.com) Omnipod - Simplify Life Learn about Dexcom   Check out VIVI Cap to protect your insulin from extreme temperatures The best way to keep up with Stacey and the show is by signing up for our weekly newsletter: Sign up for our newsletter here Here's where to find us: Facebook (Group) Facebook (Page) Instagram Twitter Check out Stacey's books! Learn more about everything at our home page www.diabetes-connections.com  Reach out with questions or comments: info@diabetes-connections.com Episode transcription with links: Hello and welcome to Diabetes Connections In the News! I'm Stacey Simms and every other Friday I bring you a short episode with the top diabetes stories and headlines happening now. XX A 42-year-old man who has lived most of his life with type 1 diabetes has become the first human to receive a transplant of genetically modified insulin-producing cells. This marks the first pancreatic cell transplant in a human to sidestep the need for immunosuppressant drugs. “This is the most exciting moment of my scientific career,” says cell biologist Per-Ola Carlsson of Uppsala University in Sweden, who helped develop the procedure. The new treatment, he says, “opens the future possibility of treating not only diabetes but other autoimmune diseases.” This procedure uses the gene editing technique, CRISPR, to discourage the auto immune attack on the donor cells. Before the transplant, the participant had no measurable naturally produced insulin and was receiving daily doses of the hormone. But within four to 12 weeks following the transplant, his levels rose slightly on their own after meals—showing that the new beta cells were releasing some insulin in response to glucose. even though the new study is promising, it involved just one participant and is therefore preliminary. And longer-term monitoring is needed to confirm the therapy's safety before it can be offered to more people. She also notes that the injected cells produced only 7 percent of the insulin needed for a person to be fully independent of additional medication. The researchers supplied the recipient with insulin doses to maintain healthy blood sugar levels. While Herold thinks it's still too early to consider this approach for a cure, “these options are now here to change the disease in ways that have never been possible before,” he says. “There's tremendous hope.” https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/type-1-diabetes-patients-insulin-production-restored-with-new-cell/ XX   This one is interesting… a recent study shows that children of mothers with gestational diabetes or fathers with type 2 diabetes have higher chances of developing type 1 diabetes than kids whose parents do not have any type of diabetes. Specifically, the study found that children whose mothers had gestational diabetes during pregnancy were 94% more likely to develop type 1 diabetes compared to children of mothers without diabetes. Similarly, having a father with type 2 diabetes was linked to a 77% higher risk. The study also suggests a possible link between maternal type 2 diabetes and type 1 diabetes in children, although more data are needed to confirm whether the risk is real.   "What is interesting is that type 1 diabetes is a disease of lack of the hormone insulin while gestational diabetes and type 2 diabetes stem mostly from the body's resistance to the hormone. What may be happening is that genes, environments and behaviors that create insulin resistance may also, in some cases, trigger the immune reactions that lead to type 1 diabetes," adds Dr. Dasgupta. A 2019 meta-analysis by researchers at Soochow University in China found that gestational diabetes was linked to a 66% higher risk of type 1 diabetes in children. This new study, which includes more than twice as many studies, offers a robust synthesis of current evidence and shows the risk is even greater than previously estimated. It is also the first meta-analysis to examine the link between paternal type 2 diabetes and type 1 diabetes in offspring. "Several mechanisms may be at play. Families often share lifestyle and eating habits, which can raise the likelihood that children will be affected. But beyond that, high blood sugar levels may also cause biological changes in parents that could increase their children's risk of developing type 1 diabetes," explains Laura Rendon, co-first author of the study, who completed an MSc in experimental medicine at The Institute and, as someone living with type 1 diabetes herself, finds deep personal meaning in conducting this research. For instance, the authors suggest that high blood sugar during pregnancy may stress the fetus's insulin-producing beta cells, reducing their number at birth or making them more vulnerable to damage later in life. It may also trigger epigenetic changes—modifications to proteins and molecules attached to DNA—that increase the risk. Likewise, high blood sugar in fathers with type 2 diabetes may cause epigenetic changes in their sperm, potentially influencing their child's risk of developing type 1 diabetes. https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-diabetes-children-linked-parents.html XX Can a CGM help you lose weight? The company Signos is banking on it – the just got FDA approval for their system, which uses the over the counter Dexcom Stelo. The claim here is that the system will help track how food choices, activity, stress and sleep can all affect metabolism. Signos also works in partnership with the digital nutrition counseling startup Nourish. It currently offers a quarterly subscription plan, including six CGM sensors, for $139 per month. And they tell you don't take any medical actions based on the app's output without consulting a physician. https://www.fiercebiotech.com/medtech/fda-clears-signos-over-counter-cgm-powered-weight-loss-app XX Good news for T1D1, a free mobile app that helps people calculate insulin doses, track daily data, and share insights with healthcare providers. After being pulled off the market with similar apps a few years ago, it's now back and FDA approved. Drew Mendelow created the app after his diagnosis at age 13. He came on the show last year and I'll link his story up in the show notes. Diabetes Center Berne provided the initial funding to support the T1D1 efforts to redesign the app per FDA standards.  Comerge AG , the registered manufacturer, enlisted a team of software engineers, regulatory experts, and design professionals to ensure T1D1 was FDA-ready. Dexcom graciously conducted the Human Factors study to ensure safety and accuracy.  ​ ​T1D1 is now FDA-cleared as a Class II medical device and is the first over-the-counter insulin calculator cleared for individuals aged 2 and older. T1D1 is expected to be live in the AppStore and Google Play Store by October 2025. https://diabetes-connections.com/the-fda-took-down-this-teens-free-bolus-calculator-he-needs-your-help-to-bring-it-back/ XX Metformin has been the standard treatment for type 2 diabetes for more than six decades, yet scientists still do not fully understand how it works. A team from Baylor College of Medicine, working with international collaborators, has now identified an unexpected factor in its effectiveness: the brain. Their findings reveal a brain pathway involved in metformin's glucose-lowering action, pointing to new strategies for treating diabetes with greater precision. The study was published in Science Advances. The researchers concentrated on a small protein called Rap1, located in a region of the brain known as the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH). They discovered that metformin's ability to lower blood sugar at clinically relevant doses depends on suppressing Rap1 activity in this brain area.   “This discovery changes how we think about metformin,” Fukuda said. “It's not just working in the liver or the gut, it's also acting in the brain. We found that while the liver and intestines need high concentrations of the drug to respond, the brain reacts to much lower levels.”     https://scitechdaily.com/after-60-years-scientists-uncover-hidden-brain-pathway-behind-diabetes-drug-metformin/   XX Looks like GLP-1 pills are moving ahead. Lilly says it's version helped overweight adults with type 2 lose 10% of their body weights and lower A1C. Just two weeks ago, we were talking about how the same drug in people without diabetes had less than the stellar expected results. Orforglipron is a small-molecule pill that is easier to manufacture and package than wildly popular injectable drugs for obesity, such as Lilly's Zepbound and Novo Nordisk's NOVOb.CO rival treatment Wegovy, which are peptide mimics of the appetite-controlling GLP-1 hormone. In the 72-week study of more than 1,600 overweight or obese adults with type 2 diabetes, those who received the 36-milligram highest dose of orforglipron on average shed 10.5% of their weight, or about 23 pounds (10.43 kg), versus 2.2% for those who received a placebo, achieving the main goal of the trial. Patients on the lowest 6 mg dose of the Lilly drug lost 5.5% of their weight. https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/health/2025/08/26/lilly-glp-1-pill-weight-loss/85830686007/ XX     An intervention that combined a low-calorie Mediterranean diet and exercise led to less diabetes incidence in older adults. Men had a greater diabetes risk reduction with the intervention than women. The study was based in Spain, and the diet may not be as easy to adhere to in the U.S. Among nearly 5,000 adults with metabolic syndrome and overweight or obesity in the PREDIMED-Plus trial, those who followed this intervention had a 31% lower risk for type 2 diabetes over 6 years relative to those who received only ad libitum Mediterranean diet advice (aHR 0.69, 95% CI 0.59-0.82). the Mediterranean diet focuses on high intake of plant-based foods, moderate consumption of fish, poultry, and dairy with optional red wine, and low intake of red meats, sweets, and sugar-sweetened beverages. Common foods featured in the diet include extra-virgin olive oil, fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and whole grains. However, Sharon Herring, MD, MPH, and Gina Tripicchio, PhD, MSEd, both of Temple University in Philadelphia, pointed out that this study was conducted solely in Spain, and sticking to this type of diet may be more challenging in countries like the U.S.   "Participants in the study received extra-virgin olive oil to support adherence and retention; in the United States, prices of extra-virgin olive oil have nearly doubled since 2021 due to a combination of factors including climate change, rising production costs, supply chain disruptions, and now tariffs," they noted in an accompanying editorial. "[T]he large number of dietitian contacts during the study may prove difficult to scale broadly in the United States given challenges with health care access and reimbursement for prevention services."         https://www.medpagetoday.com/primarycare/diabetes/117151 XX A group of Canadian researchers has identified an unexpected way to lower blood sugar and protect the liver: by capturing a little-known fuel produced by gut bacteria before it enters the body and causes harm. The findings, published in Cell Metabolism, could open the door to new therapies to treat metabolic diseases like type 2 diabetes and fatty liver disease. Scientists from McMaster University, Université Laval, and the University of Ottawa discovered that a molecule generated by gut microbes can cross into the bloodstream, where it drives the liver to overproduce glucose and fat. By designing a method to trap this molecule in the gut before it reaches circulation, they achieved striking improvements in blood sugar regulation and fatty liver disease in obese mice. https://scitechdaily.com/scientists-discover-a-surprising-new-way-to-fight-diabetes/ XX Dexcom, which specializes in technology for glucose biosensing, will lay off 350 workers, with nearly 200 of them in San Diego, according to the San Diego Union Tribune. The bulk of the local jobs being lost are focused on Dexcom operations and manufacturing. The Dexcom development follows cutbacks to Verily, a life sciences company that is a subsidiary of Alphabet, Google's corporate parent. Verily's work included a project with Dexcom on wearable glucose sensors. CEO Stephen Gillett, in a memo obtained by the publication, said there will be “workforce reductions across Verily.” A representative for Verily confirmed to Business Insider that “we have made the difficult decision to discontinue manufacturing medical devices and will no longer be supporting them going forward.” https://timesofsandiego.com/business/2025/08/27/report-life-sciences-firm-dexcom-lay-off-200-san-diego-workers/ XX Front office changes at Insulet. Eric Benjamin, former chief product and customer experience officer, will take the role of chief operating officer, effective immediately. Manoj Raghunandanan Mu-NOHJ Rug-a-nun-da-nun to the position of chief growth officer, leading Insulet's new growth organization. The appointments are some of CEO Ashley McEvoy's first changes since she was hired in April. The appointments come after McEvoy outlined four priorities for Insulet on an August earnings call:   enhancing the company's commercial capabilities, building Insulet's brand and direct-to-consumer capabilities, driving growth outside of the U.S. and accelerating the pace of innovation. https://www.medtechdive.com/news/insulet-eric-benjamin-manoj-raghunandanan-appointments/758668/ XX   XX Want to highlight The Children's Diabetes Foundation in Colorado – they held a medal ceremony for patients of the Barbara Davis Center who've lived with Type 1 diabetes for 50 years or more. There were 87 medal recipients in the ceremony including Dana Davis, Executive Director of the Children's Diabetes Foundation and the daughter of the founders of the Barbara Davis Center. Davis shared: "When you got Type1 diabetes in the 70s, they thought you shouldn't have children. They thought you weren't going to live past 30 or 40. It was definitely very different," Davis said.   https://www.cbsnews.com/colorado/news/barbara-davis-center-celebrates-colorado-type-1-diabetes-patients-milestone/

Which Type of Patient Are You?In this week's episode, Dr. Jordan Robertson explores the three types of patients: Health Hobbyists, the General Population, and those Backed Into a Corner, and what each group can teach us about how we approach our health. Whether you find yourself just “getting by,” experimenting endlessly, or facing a health wake-up call, there are lessons (and warnings) in every category. Jordan unpacks the pros and cons of each approach and how borrowing from other camps can help you thrive instead of settling for mediocrity.----Dr. Jordan Robertson is a leader in naturopathic and integrative medicine. She is dedicated to evidence-based healthcare and founded The Confident Clinician, which empowers practitioners with up-to-date research and practical tools. With over 15 years in clinical practice and experience teaching at McMaster University's Health Sciences program, she bridges the gap between research and real-world application.Follow Dr. Jordan on Instagram----Do you ever wish there were a knowledge base built just for you?Have you searched for a resource that supported you so you could focus on what really matters for your business?The Confident Clinician is the ONLY medical knowledge base built for integrative practitioners.Over 750 clinician members have simplified their patient care by using our knowledge base and exclusive members-only education.Our knowledge base and clinical topics are updated on an ongoing basis and, and we offer exclusive members-only courses that support you, whatever your clinical focus.Ready to be supported in your work?Learn More About The Confident Clinician HereDiscover The Confident Clinician's 5-Day AI Smart-Search ChallengeWant to dive deeper? Explore the latest research breakdowns and practical tools on our blog----Thank you for listening. Please subscribe and share!

Welcome back to Ditch the Labcoat. Today's episode dives deep into a topic that's been quietly reshaping lives and families across the globe: gambling addiction. Host Dr. Mark Bonta sits down with Dr. Daniela Lobo, a leading expert in addiction psychiatry, to explore just how dramatically gambling—especially online and sports betting—has surged in prevalence, fueled by intensive marketing and made even more accessible by the pandemic's isolation.Together, Dr. Bonta and Dr. Lobo break down the reality behind those flashy ads and glossy casino images, peeling back the curtain on the true costs of problem gambling. They explore not just the personal financial and mental fallout, but the ripple effects that devastate families, drive up debt, worsen mental health struggles, and even intersect with substance use disorders. As gambling apps, sports betting, and even crypto-trading continue to blur the lines between entertainment and addiction, the doctors unpack why so many young adults—and increasingly, teens—find themselves hooked.Dr. Lobo shares practical insights for recognizing gambling problems, supporting loved ones, and opening honest conversations with kids. Most importantly, they question whether the billions gained in gambling revenue are truly worth the social and health costs we're only beginning to acknowledge.If you've ever wondered what really drives gambling addiction, how to spot it, or what responsible action looks like for individuals and society, you won't want to miss this eye-opening, evidence-based conversation. Let's ditch the lab coat and get real about gambling in our modern age.Episode LessonsGambling Addiction: Not a Choice — A medical disorder with devastating consequences, not a weakness or bad habit.Online Gambling's Rapid Expansion — Pandemic and marketing fueled a surge, making betting more accessible than ever.Marketing Drives Gambling Behaviors — Aggressive ads and sports integration normalize betting, increasing risks across all ages.Health Impact Beyond Money — Gambling harms mental, emotional, and even physical health, adding layers of stress.Younger Generations at Risk — Sports and digital platforms expose youth to gambling without proper safeguards.Overlap With Other Addictions — Gambling often co-occurs with mental health and substance use disorders.Paths to Treatment and Recovery — Counseling, family support, financial planning, and early intervention provide hope.Financial Ruin and Family Toll — Hidden gambling devastates households, with debt triggering further destructive cycles.Policy and Regulation Matter — Weak oversight allows profit-driven expansion while shifting costs to families.Prevention Through Education — Open dialogue and awareness reduce risks, counter marketing, and build resilience.Episode Timestamps03:21 – Addiction's Evolving Forms: Gambling Alert 07:08 – COVID-19's Impact on Gambling Behavior 11:56 – Gambling's Mental and Physical Toll 13:48 – Accessibility Fuels Gambling Issues 18:03 – Teens, Gambling, and Sports Obsession 22:25 – Problem Gambling's Significant Impact 25:36 – Gambling Disorders and Mental Health 29:18 – iGaming Self-Exclusion & Support 30:30 – Supporting Families with Addicted Loved Ones 36:00 – Modern Gambling: Signs and Challenges 39:02 – Gambling and Risk Awareness Conversation 42:33 – Understanding Moderation and Gambling Risks 45:23 – Ethics of Gambling Expansion 47:03 – Cautionary Insights on Gambling AppsDISCLAMER >>>>>>    The Ditch Lab Coat podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not serve as a substitute for professional medical services such as medicine or nursing. It does not establish a doctor/patient relationship, and the use of information from the podcast or linked materials is at the user's own risk. The content does not aim to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and users should promptly seek guidance from healthcare professionals for any medical conditions.   >>>>>> The expressed opinions belong solely to the hosts and guests, and they do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Hospitals, Clinics, Universities, or any other organization associated with the host or guests.    Disclosures: Ditch The Lab Coat podcast is produced by (Podkind.co) and is independent of Dr. Bonta's teaching and research roles at McMaster University, Temerty Faculty of Medicine and Queens University. 

What's the truth about protein, strength training, and women's health past 40?Michelle MacDonald is joined by world-renowned muscle metabolism expert, Dr. Stuart Phillips, a leading researcher from McMaster University. They dive deep into what women over 40 need to know about muscle loss, optimal protein intake, and the truth about strength training. Dr.Phillips shares the science behind aging and metabolism, dispels persistent fitness myths, and explains how to actually preserve muscle and stay powerful into your fifties and beyond. The duo share tips for anyone serious about cultivating a healthy mindset, building a fitness mindset, and pursuing sustainable personal growth through evidence-based training and nutrition. Favorite Moments:0:12 Why most women aren't lifting — and why that's a bigger problem6:43 The real recommended protein intake for women over 4013:56 What the research actually says about 40g of protein post-workout33:11 The quality of life case for building strength and power after 40 "I'm more afraid of women not lifting weights at all than I am of them lifting the wrong way."GUEST: DR. STUART PHILLIPS McMaster University | X | Linktree | Instagram Dr. Stuart Phillips is a distinguished professor and Tier 1 Canada Research Chair in Skeletal Muscle Health at McMaster University. His research focuses on how nutrition and exercise impact skeletal muscle protein turnover, especially in the context of aging and sarcopenia. He is also the director of the Physical Activity Centre of Excellence (PACE) and the McMaster Centre for Nutrition, Exercise, and Health Research.CONNECT WITH MICHELLEWebsite | Instagram | YouTube | Facebook | XMichelle MacDonald is the creator of the FITNESS MODEL BLUEPRINT™ and host of the Stronger By Design™ podcast. Known globally for her transformation programs, Michelle empowers women to redefine aging through evidence-based strength training, nutrition, and mindset practices. Since 2012, she has coached thousands of women online, leveraging her expertise as a Physique Champion and ISSA Strength and Conditioning Specialist. She co-founded Tulum Strength Club and established The Wonder Women (TWW), inspiring countless transformations including her mother, Joan MacDonald (Train With Joan™). Michelle continues to lead the charge in women's fitness, launching the Stronger by Design™ fitness app in fall 2024.Where to Watch/Listen:WebsiteApple PodcastsSpotifyYouTubeLeave a rating for this podcast with one click https://ratethispodcast.com/michellemacdonald 

I always wondered if my workaholic dad's habits were healthy. Or if he was driven by the urge to be a dedicated provider? Turns out there's a big difference between working hard and being a workaholic - and workaholics could be costing organizations.Dr. Catherine Connelly from McMaster University is shared more eye-opening research on an HR topics - this time workaholism and the connection to workplace ethics. We talked about why your most dedicated employees might actually be the ones cutting ethical corners.In this episode:The real difference between being busy and being a workaholic Why workaholics are more likely to morally disengage at workThe surprising connection between dedication and tunnel vision"Idiosyncrasy credits" - how high performers build up goodwill to get away with bad behavior laterRed flags to watch for when hiring (and managing) potential workaholicsBuilding systems that keep even your best employees ethically groundedCatherine's research challenges what we think we know about workplace dedication. Sometimes the people most invested in "organizational success" are the ones who'll justify anything to achieve it.This is a must-listen for any HR professional managing high performers or trying to build truly healthy cultures. Plus, Catherine's research is open source, so you can dive deeper after listening.Connect with Dr. Catherine Connelly on LinkedIn or at : connellyresearch.com . What's your experience with workaholism in your workplace? I'd love to hear your thoughts!

In this Editor's Special Episode of The HemOnc Pulse, Dr. Hira Mian of McMaster University shares expert insights on the evolving treatment landscape for multiple myeloma. From optimizing selinexor use, to understanding long-term MonumenTAL-1 data with talquetamab, to the promise of emerging trispecific antibodies, Dr. Mian highlights the biggest shifts shaping care today.

In this week's episode of Real Integrative Medicine, Dr. Jordan Robertson explores the often-overlooked role of reflection and attribution in creating real, lasting change in your health journey.Whether you're a clinician guiding patients or someone working on your own health goals, reflection helps you notice progress, connect behaviours to outcomes, and take ownership without falling into the traps of self-blame or frustration. Jordan shares practical strategies to shift from “this happened to me” toward “here's how I move forward,” drawing on lessons from patient care, athletics, and her own training.If you've ever struggled to stay motivated when results felt far away, this episode will show you how reflection and attribution can build momentum, resilience, and long-term success in both health and life.----Dr. Jordan Robertson is a leader in naturopathic and integrative medicine. She is dedicated to evidence-based healthcare and founded The Confident Clinician, which empowers practitioners with up-to-date research and practical tools. With over 15 years in clinical practice and experience teaching at McMaster University's Health Sciences program, she bridges the gap between research and real-world application.Follow Dr. Jordan on Instagram----Do you ever wish there were a knowledge base built just for you?Have you searched for a resource that supported you so you could focus on what really matters for your business?The Confident Clinician is the ONLY medical knowledge base built for integrative practitioners.Over 750 clinician members have simplified their patient care by using our knowledge base and exclusive members-only education.Our knowledge base and clinical topics are updated on an ongoing basis and, and we offer exclusive members-only courses that support you, whatever your clinical focus.Ready to be supported in your work?Learn More About The Confident Clinician HereDiscover The Confident Clinician's 5-Day AI Smart-Search ChallengeWant to dive deeper? Explore the latest research breakdowns and practical tools on our blog----Thank you for listening. Please subscribe and share.

This week on Ditch the Labcoat, Dr. Mark Bonta sits down with Dr. Diana Driscoll, an optometrist, researcher, and internationally recognized authority on the autonomic nervous system—who also happens to be one of the rare non-MDs to join the show. After her own sudden and life-altering health collapse, Dr. Driscoll found herself deep in the world of dysautonomia—a group of disorders affecting the autonomic nervous system, responsible for all those automatic functions in our bodies we don't usually have to think about. Finding few answers from doctors, and confronted by a system that too often shuns “invisible illnesses,” Dr. Driscoll became her own medical detective, pioneering research into conditions like Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) and unlocking innovative approaches to treatment.In this eye-opening conversation, Dr. Driscoll and Dr. Bonta tackle the complex, often misunderstood world of autonomic dysfunction, the science behind “mystery illnesses,” and the frustrating gaps in our medical knowledge. From the lived experience of being a patient who was told “it's all in your head,” to developing new therapeutics and advocating for others, Dr. Driscoll's story is as inspiring as it is informative.If you've ever struggled with unexplained symptoms, felt dismissed by the healthcare system, or just want to understand the evolving science behind these often-invisible disorders—this episode is for you. Plug in for a candid, practical, and hope-filled discussion that challenges the boundaries of what medicine knows today and explores the frontier where suffering finally meets science.Episode HighlightsInvisible Illness Is Real — Validation for patients with unexplained symptoms is crucial; their suffering is genuine, not imagined or "all in their head."Medicine's Knowledge Blindspots — The medical establishment often lacks answers—and even language—for complex autonomic disorders like dysautonomia and POTS.Patient-Led Discovery Matters — Dr. Driscoll's personal journey from patient to researcher demonstrates the power of self-advocacy in pushing knowledge forward.Autonomic System Ignorance — Most clinicians receive minimal training about the autonomic nervous system, leading to missed diagnoses and inadequate care.One Size Doesn't Fit All — There is no single solution for autonomic dysfunction—treatments must be individualized to each patient's complex presentation.Beyond Symptom Management — Suppressing symptoms (e.g., racing heart) without understanding the root cause can worsen patient outcomes or miss vital clues.The Inflammatory Connection — Inflammation, triggered by infections or stress, can drive autonomic dysfunction—a framework for science to pursue targeted therapies.Necessity of Clinical Innovation — When guidelines and therapies don't exist, scientific curiosity and non-traditional research can inspire new approaches and hope.The Power of Lived Experience — Practitioner-patients like Dr. Driscoll bridge gaps between science, clinical care, and compassion through firsthand understanding.Hope Through Education — Educating both patients and practitioners fosters progress—there's always hope, even if answers come step by step.Episode Timestamps04:15 – Post-COVID Dysautonomia Insights 07:12 – Invisible Illnesses and Tech Misguidance 13:07 – Central Sensitization and Unexplained Symptoms 16:44 – Nicotine Patch Stimulates Vagus Nerve 20:01 – Navigating Illness and Predatory Healthcare 20:51 – Navigating Autonomic Dysfunction Treatments 26:03 – Bridging Medical Knowledge Gaps 29:38 – Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension Insights 31:25 – Inflammation's Impact on Heart and Vision 36:07 – Chronic Illness: The Domino Effect 41:18 – Questioning Symptom-Driven Treatments 44:22 – Unseen Illness: Recognition Grows 45:26 – Advancements in Autonomic Dysfunction Treatments 49:06 – Championing Long Covid ResearchDISCLAMER >>>>>>    The Ditch Lab Coat podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not serve as a substitute for professional medical services such as medicine or nursing. It does not establish a doctor/patient relationship, and the use of information from the podcast or linked materials is at the user's own risk. The content does not aim to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and users should promptly seek guidance from healthcare professionals for any medical conditions.   >>>>>> The expressed opinions belong solely to the hosts and guests, and they do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Hospitals, Clinics, Universities, or any other organization associated with the host or guests.    Disclosures: Ditch The Lab Coat podcast is produced by (Podkind.co) and is independent of Dr. Bonta's teaching and research roles at McMaster University, Temerty Faculty of Medicine and Queens University. 

Dr. Stu Phillips is a professor at McMaster University and one of the most prominent and respected researchers in resistance training and nutrition especially relating to muscle and aging.Stu joins me to share:-What is and what causes sarcopenia-Can we prevent sarcopenia -How much protein do we really need - to live healthy and for optimal muscle building-Do our protein needs change as we get older-Our current understanding of the importance of food timing-Is there any evidence to support the use of peptides-The issues with sourcing peptides-Popular and misleading claims around women's training and menopause -Do energy drinks halt muscle repair-And much more00:55 Understanding Sarcopenia02:24 Preventing Muscle Loss with Age04:32 Building Muscle at Any Age07:38 Protein Requirements and Aging11:24 Debunking Protein Myths17:57 Plant-Based vs. Animal-Based Proteins23:36 Protein Timing and Recovery26:58 Introduction to Peptides27:42 Oral vs. Injectable Peptides29:41 Skepticism and Anecdotal Evidence34:45 Menopause and Women's Training42:12 Energy Drinks and Muscle Repair44:03 Social Media and Misinformation49:48 The Importance of Evidence-Based InformationI've been putting a lot of time and effort into making these new episodes valuable for you. You can help me get these great guests and their knowledge in front of more people by:-Subscribing and checking out more episodes-Sharing on your social media (please tag me - I promise I'll respond)-Sharing with the friend you think of who needs this episodeFollow Andrew Coates:Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@andrewcoatesfitness⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join My Email List:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.andrewcoatesfitness.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get the RP App at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.rpstrength.com/coates⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - use the code COATESRPUse Code ANDREWCOATESFITNESS to save 10% off at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://justbitememeals.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Use MacrosFirst for tracking nutrition ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.macrosfirst.com/⁠⁠Go to www.knkg.com/Andrew59676 for 15% off your KNKG bag.

In this episode of The Real Integrative Medicine Podcast, Dr. Jordan Robertson sits down with Dr. Kirstie Griffiths to unpack the complicated and often misunderstood relationship between diagnostic imaging and pain. From MRIs and X-rays to CT scans and ultrasounds, we dive into why imaging is not always the “golden ticket” to understanding your pain, and how over-reliance on these tools can sometimes slow recovery. With personal stories, clinical insights, and a healthy dose of myth-busting, this conversation will challenge the way you think about your results. ----Dr. Griffiths is a Canadian chiropractor, yoga teacher, and best-selling author practicing in Guelph, Ontario. Her passion is in helping people overcome back pain using a mind-body approach that integrates chiropractic and yoga. Dr. Griffiths is the author of "Back to Wellness: A mind-body approach to managing your back pain" and the founder of “Yoga for Back Pain,” a 12-week online program that combines education, movement, and meditation, specifically designed for individuals with back pain. Dr. Griffiths has also created an online membership called "Mind-Body Daily" which provides access to quick, simple and effective techniques to soothe the nervous system and enhance well-being on your own schedule and from the comfort of home.Follow Dr. Kirstie on Instagram Access Dr. Griffiths' FREE Yoga for Back Pain Video----Dr. Jordan Robertson is a leader in naturopathic and integrative medicine. She is dedicated to evidence-based healthcare and founded The Confident Clinician, which empowers practitioners with up-to-date research and practical tools. With over 15 years in clinical practice and experience teaching at McMaster University's Health Sciences program, she bridges the gap between research and real-world application.Follow Dr. Jordan on Instagram----Do you ever wish there were a knowledge base built just for you?Have you searched for a resource that supported you so you could focus on what really matters for your business?The Confident Clinician is the ONLY medical knowledge base built for integrative practitioners.Over 750 clinician members have simplified their patient care by using our knowledge base and exclusive members-only education.Our knowledge base and clinical topics are updated on an ongoing basis and, and we offer exclusive members-only courses that support you, whatever your clinical focus.Ready to be supported in your work?Learn More About The Confident Clinician HereDiscover The Confident Clinician's 5-Day AI Smart-Search ChallengeWant to dive deeper? Explore the latest research breakdowns and practical tools on our blog----Thank you for listening. Please subscribe and share.

In this episode of the Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) Podcast, host Kyle B. Enfield, MD, FCCM, speaks with Garrett McDougall, MS, MSc, and Ben Forestell, MD, of McMaster University about their recent study, “Direct Laryngoscopy Versus Video Laryngoscopy for Intubation in Critically Ill Patients: A Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis, and Trial Sequential Analysis of Randomized Trials,” published in the November 2024 issue of Critical Care Medicine. The study included 20 randomized controlled trials encompassing 4569 patients to investigate whether video laryngoscopy (VL) offers advantages over direct laryngoscopy (DL) for intubation in critically ill patients.  A key finding of the study was that VL probably improves first-pass success rates and reduces the risk of esophageal intubation and dental injury. These benefits extend across the spectrum of operator experience, especially among novice operators but also among seasoned operators.   Drs. McDougall and Forestell discuss findings that surprised them, such as seeing equal benefit for standard VL and hyperangulated VL devices. Additionally, no clear benefits were found for patients who were intubated emergently with VL as compared to those who underwent elective intubation. The discussion covers what could be next for resuscitation and airway research in critically ill patients. There may be more to learn about scenarios involving difficult airways, soiled airways, and emergent versus elective intubation. More research on device characteristics could also provide important insights. To wrap up, the guests underscore the importance of maintaining both VL and DL proficiency since DL can be a more appropriate choice for some patients. Resources referenced in this episode: Direct Laryngoscopy Versus Video Laryngoscopy for Intubation in Critically Ill Patients: A Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis, and Trial Sequential Analysis of Randomized Trials (McDougall GG, et al. Crit Care Med. 2024;52:1674-1685).

Are women being misled by flashy fitness trends that ignore the science?Michelle MacDonald welcomes Dr. Lauren Colenso-Semple, one of the world's leading researchers in female exercise physiology. Together, they dismantle popular but unproven trends like cycle syncing, oversimplified menopause nutrition hacks, and hormone-based fear messaging. Lauren explains what the evidence truly says about training, fat loss, and muscle growth for women in all life stages, including the menopause transition. Listeners will walk away with science-backed strategies for building strength, protecting metabolic health, and avoiding common fitness traps. Favorite Moments (timestamped bullet points):2:30 From Fitness Professional to Female Physiology Researcher6:44 Why Cycle Syncing Misses the Mark for Strength Training19:46 The Truth About Fat Loss During Menopause28:22 The Trade-Off Between Extreme Leanness and Quality of Life34:42 Why Muscle Growth Matters More Than Constant Fat Loss“The basics work. Don't let fear-based or overcomplicated messaging distract you from the fundamentals that build strength and health.”GUEST: LAUREN COLENSO-SEMPLEMASS Research Review | LinkedIn | Instagram Full Guest Bio: I am a muscle physiology researcher and science communicator with a Ph.D. in Integrative Physiology from McMaster University and a M.S. in Exercise Science from the University of South Florida. My work focuses on the influence of ovarian hormones on exercise-induced adaptations. I am also an expert fitness professional with years of practical experience in strength & conditioning and sports nutrition, and I am a co-owner of the MASS Research Review.CONNECT WITH MICHELLEWebsite | Instagram | YouTube | Facebook | XFull Michelle Bio: Michelle MacDonald is the creator of the FITNESS MODEL BLUEPRINT™ and host of the Stronger By Design™ podcast. Known globally for her transformation programs, Michelle empowers women to redefine aging through evidence-based strength training, nutrition, and mindset practices. Since 2012, she has coached thousands of women online, leveraging her expertise as a Physique Champion and ISSA Strength and Conditioning Specialist. She co-founded Tulum Strength Club and established The Wonder Women (TWW), inspiring countless transformations including her mother, Joan MacDonald (Train With Joan™). Michelle continues to lead the charge in women's fitness, launching the Stronger by Design™ fitness app in fall 2024.Where to Watch/Listen:WebsiteApple PodcastsSpotifyYouTubeLeave a rating for this podcast with one click https://ratethispodcast.com/michellemacdonald  

In any given year, approximately 8.6% of Quebecers will experience struggles with depression, anxiety and related conditions. From prevention to recovery, physical activity isn't just good for your health – it's proven to be a powerful tool for mental wellness. Dr. Heather Bullock is an assistant professor in Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact at McMaster University. She spoke to Andrew Carter.

Rachael Finnerty is a certified music therapist who since 2001, has initiated over 30 new music therapy programs throughout the GTA. She served as the president of the Music Therapy Association of Ontario from 2010-2014 and was the recipient of the YWCA Woman of Distinction Award, for Healthcare in 2015. As an advocate for educating people about music therapy, Rachael developed and brought 2 music therapy courses to McMaster University in 2010, and currently educates over 5,000 students each academic year about music therapy. Rachel recently completed a PhD in Psychology Neuroscience and Behaviour at McMaster University where she explored the use of music therapy to proactively manage stress and anxiety. Please welcome Rachael back to the show!Rachael's Links:PHD Thesis - https://www.researchgate.net/publication/385517707_MUSIC_THERAPY_FOR_PROACTIVE_WELLNESSSocial Media - @musictherapyacademyEmail - rachael@musictherapyacademy.comWebsite - http://www.musictherapyacademy.com/-- Subscribe to the Able Voice Podcast, leave us a review and connect with us (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@ablevoicepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ @synergymusictherapy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠) to share your experiences and takeaways. We release new episodes every other Sunday between the end of January and end of August.AVP Theme Music by: Christopher Mouchette. Follow him on⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Soundcloud (Chris Mouchette)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Episode audio edited by: Justis Krar (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@immvproductions⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠)Rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts here:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/able-voice-podcast/id1505215850⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this week's episode of the Real Integrative Medicine podcast, Dr. Jordan Robertson and Dr. Keara Taylor delve into the complexities of PMS and PMDD, exploring the emotional and physical symptoms often associated with these conditions. They discuss the importance of understanding hormonal fluctuations, the role of lifestyle changes, and the various treatment options available, including both medical and natural approaches. Dr. Taylor shares insights on the latest research and the importance of personalized treatment plans for women experiencing PMS.----Dr. Keara Taylor is a Naturopathic Doctor with a clinical focus in women's hormonal health, supporting patients with PMS, PCOS, period problems, perimenopause, and menopause. As a Menopause Society Certified Practitioner (formerly NAMS), she is dedicated to providing comprehensive, evidence-based care to guide women through their hormonal transitions with confidence and ease. A lifelong learner with a deep curiosity for health and wellness, Dr. Keara's path to patient care wasn't straightforward—she spent six years as a Chartered Accountant before discovering her true passion. Now, she's on a mission to cut through the noise of online misinformation and provide her patients with clear, evidence-based solutions. Dr. Keara holds a Doctor of Naturopathy from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine and an Honours Bachelor of Health Sciences from Western University. Outside of practice, Dr. Keara can be found buried in a book or outdoors with her family, skiing, playing tennis, or swimming in the lake.Follow Dr. Keara on Instagram Discover Dr. Taylor's Course----Dr. Jordan Robertson is a leader in naturopathic and integrative medicine. She is dedicated to evidence-based healthcare and founded The Confident Clinician, which empowers practitioners with up-to-date research and practical tools. With over 15 years in clinical practice and experience teaching at McMaster University's Health Sciences program, she bridges the gap between research and real-world application.Follow Dr. Jordan on Instagram----Do you ever wish there were a knowledge base built just for you?Have you searched for a resource that supported you so you could focus on what really matters for your business?The Confident Clinician is the ONLY medical knowledge base built for integrative practitioners.Over 750 clinician members have simplified their patient care by using our knowledge base and exclusive members-only education.Our knowledge base and clinical topics are updated on an ongoing basis and, and we offer exclusive members-only courses that support you, whatever your clinical focus.Ready to be supported in your work?Learn More About The Confident Clinician HereDiscover The Confident Clinician's 5-Day AI Smart-Search ChallengeWant to dive deeper? Explore the latest research breakdowns and practical tools on our blog----Thank you for listening. Please subscribe and share.

Welcome back to Ditch the Lab Coat with Dr. Mark Bonta—a podcast where we cut through health hype with evidence, curiosity, and a good dose of scientific skepticism. In this special solo episode, Dr. Bonta takes a step back to reflect on what he's learned after recording over 70 episodes with experts across medicine, wellness, and psychology.Instead of chasing the latest biohacks and trendy do's, Dr. Bonta shares his take on the “don'ts” that could make the biggest difference to our health: don't load your pantry with ultra-processed foods, don't rely on fad diets without respecting your biology, don't ignore your mental resilience, don't keep screens in your bedroom, and don't underestimate the lifelong dangers of substance use—especially alcohol. Drawing from fascinating past guests and peppered with real-life anecdotes, this episode is packed with practical, evidence-based advice that's more about avoiding pitfalls than perfecting routines.So plug in as Dr. Bonta looks back, revisits his birthday reflections, and gives us a no-nonsense breakdown of the habits (and substances) to ditch for a healthier, happier life.Episode Highlights1. Courage to Lead Change — Courage is essential to make necessary healthcare changes; everyone knows what to do, but few are willing to go first. 2. Unlearning as Growth — Success requires letting go of outdated practices, even those we've clung to for decades. 3. Nurses Leading Change — Nurses are often the ones who recognize and push for better patient care, even in the face of resistance. 4. The Role of Clinical Experts — Real-time support from experts can turn ideas into action and prevent regression under pressure. 5. Listening to the Team — Culture change starts with listening to those on the frontlines and empowering their voice. 6. A Better Way to Wean Ventilators — Traditional weaning methods can fail; a spontaneous breathing trial may be more effective. 7. The Importance of Protocols — A clear process protects patients from inconsistency and ensures evidence-based care. 8. Sedation's Downside — Sedation can cause harm; it's time to shift from automatic comfort to mindful, minimal use. 9. The Awakening Moment — A pivotal story about witnessing patients walking while intubated—and the shift it sparked. 10. Belief Before Buy-In — Seeing isn't always believing. Sometimes you must believe there's a better way before you ever see it. 11. What's Possible in Patient Recovery — Awake and mobile patients can achieve more than we think—even while critically ill. 12. Learning From Others — Growth often begins by learning from those who've already done what we thought was impossible. 13. Walking While Intubated — Real-world proof that mobility while ventilated isn't just a theory—it's being done. 14. Staff Impact and Transformation — Watching patients improve has a lasting impact on the staff and the culture of care. 15. Changing ICU Culture — Creating an awake and walking ICU demands a mindset shift and persistent leadership. 16. Making It the New Normal — What was once considered extraordinary can become standard with the right support and structure. 17. The Ripple Effect — Positive change in one unit can influence an entire hospital—and beyond.Episode Timestamps01:00 — Podcast Reflections on Lifespan and Healthcare 04:59 — Living Well: Do's vs. Don'ts 08:33 — Avoid Junk, Embrace Healthy Eating 11:51 — Hormones, Dieting, and Healthy Habits 16:45 — Dangers of Ultra-Processed Foods 18:56 — Prioritize Sleep: Limit Bedroom Screens 23:43 — Breath Work and CBT for Anxiety 27:26 — Optimal Health: Focus on Don'ts 28:38 — Alcohol and Substance Use Dangers 31:43 — Reflections on Healthier LivingDISCLAMER >>>>>>    The Ditch Lab Coat podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not serve as a substitute for professional medical services such as medicine or nursing. It does not establish a doctor/patient relationship, and the use of information from the podcast or linked materials is at the user's own risk. The content does not aim to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and users should promptly seek guidance from healthcare professionals for any medical conditions.   >>>>>> The expressed opinions belong solely to the hosts and guests, and they do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Hospitals, Clinics, Universities, or any other organization associated with the host or guests.    Disclosures: Ditch The Lab Coat podcast is produced by (Podkind.co) and is independent of Dr. Bonta's teaching and research roles at McMaster University, Temerty Faculty of Medicine and Queens University. 

Learn about a helpful workbook and a free workshop toolkit to support people who are navigating a life-changing diagnosis. My return guest Dr. Hsien Seow is a palliative care researcher and a professor in the Department of Oncology at McMaster University. He is a co-host with Sammy Winemaker MD of The Waiting Room Revolution Podcast… Continue reading Ep. 512 Navigating a Life-Changing Diagnosis: Action Steps with Hsien Seow PhD

Jim breaks down a surprising topic based on a viral video Plus – How will the tariffs impact your wallet? GUESTS: Moshe Lander - economics professor at Concordia University Marvin Ryder - associate professor of marketing at McMaster University

Are you eating enough protein? This is probably a question you've asked yourself. With “high protein” labels on almost every type of food product you can imagine, it's easy to worry - maybe I do need to eat more protein? In this episode, Prof. Stuart Phillips explains how protein can keep us healthy as we age. He also outlines when we should eat protein, how much protein we really need, and provides simple, practical advice to help you achieve it.  Stuart is a professor in the Kinesiology Department at McMaster University. He's the author of more than 400 scientific papers, many focusing on protein and muscle health, particularly during ageing.  With so much confusion around this topic  — especially in the context of fitness and ageing, this episode will provide clear, evidence-based answers from one of the world's leading scientists on the topic, to help listeners make smarter nutrition choices.

In this episode of the Real Integrative Medicine podcast, host Dr. Jordan Robertson and Dr. Dolores Fernandez discuss the often-taboo topics of sexual wellness, vaginal health, and the importance of addressing issues like vaginal dryness and libido. Dr. Fernandez shares her journey in creating IRIS, a personal care company focused on developing high-quality lubricants and moisturizers. They explore the differences between desire and arousal, the impact of pain on sexual experiences, and the challenges women face in achieving orgasm. The conversation emphasizes the need for better education and open discussions around sexual health, as well as the importance of using safe and effective products.----Dr. Dolores Fernandez is a Naturopathic Doctor, Menopause Society Certified Practitioner, and the founder of IRIS—a science-backed self-care brand dedicated to creating clean products that support vulvovaginal health and ending the stigma around vulvovaginal care. She's here to remind us that vulvar skin deserves just as much attention as any other part of our body because, honestly, 'skin is skin.' Dolores brings warmth, scientific research, and a lot of passion to her work both in the clinic with her patients and when working with IRIS, always striving to make these important conversations more open and accessible.Follow Dr. Dolores on Instagram Check out IRIS on InstagramLearn more about IRIS----Dr. Jordan Robertson is a leader in naturopathic and integrative medicine. She is dedicated to evidence-based healthcare and founded The Confident Clinician, which empowers practitioners with up-to-date research and practical tools. With over 15 years in clinical practice and experience teaching at McMaster University's Health Sciences program, she bridges the gap between research and real-world application.Follow Dr. Jordan on Instagram----Do you ever wish there were a knowledge base built just for you?Have you searched for a resource that supported you so you could focus on what really matters for your business?The Confident Clinician is the ONLY medical knowledge base built for integrative practitioners.Over 750 clinician members have simplified their patient care by using our knowledge base and exclusive members-only education.Our knowledge base and clinical topics are updated on an ongoing basis and, and we offer exclusive members-only courses that support you, whatever your clinical focus.Ready to be supported in your work?Learn More About The Confident Clinician HereDiscover The Confident Clinician's 5-Day AI Smart-Search ChallengeWant to dive deeper? Explore the latest research breakdowns and practical tools on our blog----Thank you for listening. Please subscribe and share.

Welcome back to Ditch the Labcoat! In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Mark Bonta sits down with Kali Dayton, nurse practitioner, international consultant, and the bold voice behind the Awake and Walking ICU movement. Together, they peel back the curtain on a common but rarely questioned practice in critical care: routine heavy sedation of patients on ventilators.Kali shares her journey from a nurse in a pioneering ICU—where awake, mobile, intubated patients were the norm—to a world where comatose ventilator patients are the expectation. She unpacks the hidden harms of automatic sedation, sharing both eye-opening research and the heart-wrenching stories of ICU survivors who left with trauma, cognitive struggles, and fractured lives.Dr. Bonta and Kali explore how culture, habit, and outdated beliefs have shaped critical care—and challenge us all to rethink what's possible. Is it really safer, easier, or kinder to keep patients sedated? Or can presence, mobility, and human connection transform not just survival, but recovery?Get ready to question what you thought you knew about the ICU, discover what's already possible in some hospitals, and hear a call to action for compassionate, evidence-based change. If you work in healthcare—or might ever need it—this is a conversation you can't afford to miss. Let's ditch the lab coat and reimagine patient care, one episode at a time.Episode HighlightsRethinking ICU Sedation — Most ventilated patients don't require deep sedation—remaining awake can actually improve outcomes and reduce harm.Hidden Harm of Sedation — Automatic sedation often leads to delirium, long-term trauma, and cognitive impairment for many ICU survivors.Awake and Walking ICU Model — It's possible and beneficial to keep intubated patients awake and mobile; some ICUs already achieve this routinely.Cultural Myths in Medicine — Common ICU practices persist due to unexamined traditions, not necessarily the latest evidence or patient-centered thinking.Preventing Delirium Is Key — Early avoidance of sedation and encouraging mobility drastically decrease risks of ICU delirium and related complications.Power of Patient Stories — Listening to ICU survivors reveals the real, lasting harms of unnecessary sedation and challenges clinical assumptions.Team Buy-In Essential — Successful change requires educating and involving the entire healthcare team, from doctors to bedside nurses.Early Mobility Saves Lives — Mobilizing patients—even walking them—within hours of intubation is not only feasible, but can improve recovery.Family Involvement Matters — Informing and including families in care expectations helps calm patients and supports a less traumatic ICU experience.Start Small, Lead Change — Begin cultural transformation with one patient, one team—small steps can drive a revolution toward better, humane care.Episode Timestamps05:14 — Challenges of Mechanical Ventilation 06:57 — ICU Nursing: Breathing Tube Walks 10:14 — ICU Norms Challenged: Breathing Tubes 13:16 — Pioneering Awake, Mobile Patient Care 19:11 — Awake and Walking ICU Initiative 22:06 — Rethinking Hospital DVT Practices 25:42 — Sedation Considerations Before Intubation 27:20 — Reducing Delirium in ICU Care 32:57 — Sedation: Not Just Laughing Gas 36:24 — Rounding Culture and ICU Challenges 39:08 — Improving ICU Care: ABCDEF Protocol 41:23 — Rethinking Patient Sedation Practices 44:14 — Improving ICU Patient Care 47:38 — Revolutionizing Awake ICU CareDISCLAMER >>>>>>    The Ditch Lab Coat podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not serve as a substitute for professional medical services such as medicine or nursing. It does not establish a doctor/patient relationship, and the use of information from the podcast or linked materials is at the user's own risk. The content does not aim to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and users should promptly seek guidance from healthcare professionals for any medical conditions.   >>>>>> The expressed opinions belong solely to the hosts and guests, and they do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Hospitals, Clinics, Universities, or any other organization associated with the host or guests.    Disclosures: Ditch The Lab Coat podcast is produced by (Podkind.co) and is independent of Dr. Bonta's teaching and research roles at McMaster University, Temerty Faculty of M

In 2021, Diana De Faveri's life turned “upside down, real fast” when her mother was diagnosed with corticobasal syndrome, a rare form of dementia. As a sole caregiver, she took care of her household, her business, her parents, and her parents' home. She recounts this difficult and stressful time in her life, sharing the lessons she's learned and her thoughts on why it's so important to seek help and support. Dr. Nicole Didyk, Clinical Assistant Professor at McMaster University, geriatrician, internist, passionate patient and family education advocate and creator of The Wrinkle — a YouTube channel and website for older adults and their families — shares tips on how to navigate challenging behaviours, in the face of dementia. Tune in at defydementia.org, or anywhere you get your podcasts. 

In this episode of Better Thinking, Nesh Nikolic speaks with Dr. David Healy about how psychotropic drugs and clinical trials have influenced the way we understand mental health and the broader impact these developments have had on society.David Healy, a professor in the Department of Family Medicine in McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, is a doctor, psychiatrist, psychopharmacologist, scientist and author. His main areas of research are the contribution of antidepressants to suicide, conflict of interest between pharmaceutical companies and academic medicine, and the history of pharmacology. Healy has written more than 200 peer-reviewed articles, 200 other articles, and 24 books, including The Antidepressant Era, The Creation of Psychopharmacology, The Psychopharmacologists Volumes 1–3, Let Them Eat Prozac, and Mania: A Short History of Bipolar Disorder.He has been involved as an expert witness in homicide and suicide trials involving psychotropic drugs. He has brought concerns about some medications to the attention of drug regulators. He has also said that pharmaceutical companies sell drugs by marketing diseases and co-opting academic opinion-leaders. In his 2012 book Pharmageddon, he argues that pharmaceutical companies have dominated healthcare in America, often with life-threatening results for patients. Healy is a founder and chief executive officer of Data Based Medicine Limited, which aims to make medicines safer through RxISK - Prescription Drug Side Effects an “online direct patient reporting of drug effects” platform.

Discover how Dr. Sabina Nagpal blends psychiatry, performance coaching, and spirit-nourishing practices to help high achievers—especially women—shift from burnout to aligned, fulfilled success.00:35- About Dr Sabina NagpalSabina is a medical doctor, and she's the founder of Radiate Mind.She's a fulfillment facilitator, and she's a Canadian trained psychiatrist and assistant professor at McMaster University with a fellowship in psychotherapy. 

Starting around age 30, we all begin to lose muscle mass and strength. For some, this progresses into sarcopenia, a condition that can reduce independence, increase disability, and heighten risks of falls, hospitalizations, and other health complications.Joining us to discuss how to prevent muscle loss with age is Dr. Stuart Phillips, muscle health expert and professor at McMaster University.This episode is brought you in part by Nestle.

In this Real Integrative Medicine podcast episode, Dr. Mélanie DesChâtelets joins Dr. Jordan Robertson for an in-depth exploration of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). We examine the multifaceted nature of this condition, covering essential diagnostic approaches, treatment strategies, and the critical need to address PCOS from both clinical and patient-centered viewpoints. This discussion encompasses PCOS diagnostic standards, the significance of lifestyle interventions, and how treatments such as hormonal contraceptives affect symptom control. ----Dr. Mélanie DesChâtelets, ND, is a naturopathic doctor who brings her sharp wit, evidence-based insights, and a genuine passion for health to the stage. With over a decade of experience in practice, Dr. Mélanie focuses on helping individuals manage Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), metabolic health, and cardiovascular well-being through lifestyle and behavioral change. Known for her dynamic speaking style, she makes complex health topics both accessible and engaging.Discover the PCOS Health Collective + The Beyond The Pill WorkshopThe PCOS Pivot CourseFollow Dr. Mélanie on Instagram ----Dr. Jordan Robertson is a leader in naturopathic and integrative medicine. She is dedicated to evidence-based healthcare and founded The Confident Clinician, which empowers practitioners with up-to-date research and practical tools. With over 15 years in clinical practice and experience teaching at McMaster University's Health Sciences program, she bridges the gap between research and real-world application.Follow Dr. Jordan on Instagram----Do you ever wish there were a knowledge base built just for you?Have you searched for a resource that supported you so you could focus on what really matters for your business?The Confident Clinician is the ONLY medical knowledge base built for integrative practitioners.Over 750 clinician members have simplified their patient care by using our knowledge base and exclusive members-only education.Our knowledge base and clinical topics are updated on an ongoing basis and, and we offer exclusive members-only courses that support you, whatever your clinical focus.Ready to be supported in your work?Learn More About The Confident Clinician HereDiscover The Confident Clinician's 5-Day AI Smart-Search ChallengeWant to dive deeper? Explore the latest research breakdowns and practical tools on our blog----Thank you for listening. Please subscribe and share.

How did a mine collapse in BC? Guest: Dwayne Tannant, professor of geotechnical engineering, UBC Can Canada's housing problem ever be solved? Guest: Steve Pomeroy, Professor at McMaster University, and Executive Advisor to the Canadian Housing Evidence Collaborative Why do men wait to report their health symptoms? Guest: Dr. John Oliffe, Professor in Men's Health Promotion at the School of Nursing, University of British Columbia Are BCGEU Employees living paycheck to paycheck? Guest: Paul Finch, BCGEU President Have you ever left a Negative Review? Guest: Roger McConchie, Defamation Lawyer at McConchie Law Corporation What's being done to stop intimate partner violence? Guest: Niki Sharma, BC Attorney General Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Can Canada's housing problem ever be solved? Guest: Steve Pomeroy, Professor at McMaster University, and Executive Advisor to the Canadian Housing Evidence Collaborative Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Ditch the Lab Coat, Dr. Mark Bonta sits down with Dr. Georg Haymerle—once a top head and neck surgeon in Europe and Australia, now a dedicated advocate for culture change in medicine. Georg's journey is anything but typical: after reaching the pinnacle of surgical mastery, he made the radical decision to walk away—not because of burnout or failure, but to confront the invisible crisis unraveling healthcare teams from within.Join us as we dive into Dr. Haymerle's powerful story: from the grueling demands of 14-hour cancer surgeries and the accidental discovery of high-functioning, trust-based teams, to the moment when his own department's spirit collapsed under uncertainty. We'll explore why human factors like psychological safety and simple acts of gratitude can impact patient outcomes just as much as surgical skill. Dr. Haymerle takes us inside the often-overlooked world of healthcare team dynamics, revealing why he left the operating room behind to fix something even more delicate than anatomy: the fractured culture that shapes how care is delivered.If you've ever wondered whether culture truly matters in medicine—or how speaking up, vulnerability, and a heartfelt “thank you” might just save a life—this episode will stay with you long after you listen. Tune in for a heartfelt, evidence-based conversation about what really keeps healthcare teams—and their patients—thriving.Episode Highlights1. Team Spirit Transforms Outcomes — Cohesive, trusting teams dramatically improve surgical efficiency and patient safety, sometimes reducing surgery times by hours.2. Culture Changes Everything — Good workplace culture is just as critical as skill—loss of hope or toxic environments erode performance and morale.3. Technical Skill Isn't Enough — High technical mastery won't guarantee success if team dynamics and relationships are neglected or dysfunctional.4. Vulnerability Builds Excellence — When team members can safely show weaknesses and ask for help, everyone benefits, including patient outcomes.5. Money Isn't the Motivator — Financial rewards alone don't solve morale or performance issues; intrinsic motivators and appreciation matter more.6. Gratitude Is Powerful Medicine — Simple, genuine thank-yous are rare but transformative, fueling motivation, engagement, and mutual respect in healthcare teams.7. Speaking Up Saves Lives — Creating environments where all voices are heard—regardless of hierarchy—prevents errors and fosters innovation.8. Change Requires Leadership Buy-In — Cultural shifts succeed only when leaders acknowledge problems and model openness to feedback and improvement.9. Early Intervention Matters — Recognizing “the spiral” of team dysfunction early and addressing it promptly can prevent long-term damage and staff turnover.10. Healthcare Must Evolve — Emphasizing the human side of medicine—connection, gratitude, honest conversation—represents the future of safe, effective healthcare.Episode Timestamps03:58 — Career Shift in Healthcare Path06:41 — From Timid to Skilled Surgeon10:12 — Human Factors Impact Medical Outcomes14:33 — Creating a High-Performing Team19:10 — Building Trust for Departmental Progress22:37 — Surgical Trainee Silence Dilemma23:26 — Breaking Hierarchies: Encouraging Open Dialogue26:56 — Healthcare Organizations' Capacity for Change32:49 — Austrian Healthcare's Resistance to Change34:26 — Revolutionizing Healthcare Through Change37:54 — Targeting Female Leaders in HealthcareDISCLAMER >>>>>>    The Ditch Lab Coat podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not serve as a substitute for professional medical services such as medicine or nursing. It does not establish a doctor/patient relationship, and the use of information from the podcast or linked materials is at the user's own risk. The content does not aim to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and users should promptly seek guidance from healthcare professionals for any medical conditions.   >>>>>> The expressed opinions belong solely to the hosts and guests, and they do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Hospitals, Clinics, Universities, or any other organization associated with the host or guests.    Disclosures: Ditch The Lab Coat podcast is produced by (Podkind.co) and is independent of Dr. Bonta's teaching and research roles at McMaster University, Temerty Faculty of Medicine and Queens University. 

Welcome back to The Superhumanize Podcast. I am so deeply honored to have you with me today for a conversation that is close to the very core of what it means to be human.My guest is Dr. Hsien Seow, Canada Research Chair in Palliative Care and Health System Innovation, Professor at McMaster University, and one of the foremost voices reimagining how we approach serious illness and end-of-life care. His work transcends the medical system, inviting us to see palliative care not as surrender, but as a path to reclaiming agency, dignity, and meaning, even, and perhaps especially, in life's most vulnerable chapters.Dr. Seow's book, Hope for the Best, Plan for the Rest, co-authored with Dr. Samantha Winemaker, is a guide to navigating life-changing diagnoses with clarity, courage, and grace. It offers seven keys to transform the illness journey from one of fear and disempowerment to one of hope and preparedness.In today's conversation, we explore the paradigm shifts needed in healthcare, the deeper truths mortality can teach us about life, and how we can each become active architects of our own experience, even when the path ahead feels out of our control.This episode is about much more than palliative care. It is about what it means to live fully awake to our finite nature, and to love, decide, and be present with the preciousness of this human life.Episode Highlights:02:30 – Realizing a disconnect: the moment Hsien noticed future doctors weren't trained to talk about dying, sparking his mission to change the system.04:00 – What palliative care really means: an approach that centers on the full human experience—emotional, spiritual, social—not just medical intervention.06:30 – Why timing matters: most people meet palliative care too late. Hsien and his colleague Dr. Sammy Winemaker push for earlier integration.07:15 – The key concept: “Hope for the best, plan for the rest” — balancing optimism with informed planning.08:30 – Reclaiming power from the medical system: how patients and families can move from passive to activated roles.10:00 – “Zooming out” to see the big picture: why asking what stage you're in is essential to living fully.12:15 – How to move from silence to agency: the role of courageous conversations in healing.14:45 – The ripple effect: illness doesn't just affect the patient—it shapes families and communities.16:30 – Family dynamics and understanding: how knowing someone's coping style reduces conflict and increases compassion.20:00 – What to do when the patient avoids discussion: using gentle invitations instead of confrontations.25:00 – Real-life application: how Hsien's own family used these principles to navigate care with love and tact.27:30 – Cultural myths and medical systems: how we've lost the communal experience of dying and what needs to change.30:15 – Reframing grief and loss: learning from everyday changes how to prepare for bigger transitions.32:30 – Dying as sacred: honoring diversity in spiritual beliefs and values through customized care.34:45 – The invisible load: recognizing and supporting family caregivers before burnout sets in.38:30 – Revisiting roles and expectations: how adaptability sustains families through long-term illness.40:00 – Everyday palliative care: acts of love like cooking, walking a pet, or simply being present.42:00 – Customize your order: bringing your whole self—values, beliefs, and personality—into your care.44:30 – One key question: “What do I need to know about you to give you the best...

Send us a textWelcome back Rounds Table Listeners! We are back this week with a special podcast episode. Dr. Mike Fralick sits down with Dr. Karim Ladak—rheumatologist and internist, Clinical Assistant Professor at McMaster University, and host of the Rheumatology for the Royal College podcast—to talk about leukocytoclastic vasculitis. Here we go!Questions? Comments? Feedback? We'd love to hear from you! @roundstable @InternAtWork @MedicinePods

In this week's episode of Real Integrative Medicine, Dr. Jordan Robertson discusses the complexities and challenges of cortisol testing, emphasizing that it may not be a reliable indicator of stress or fatigue. She also presents ten critical considerations to evaluate before deciding to test cortisol, including sleep, nutrition, movement, and personal development. This conversation highlights the importance of addressing lifestyle factors and mental health before resorting to hormonal testing.----Dr. Jordan Robertson is a leader in naturopathic and integrative medicine. She is dedicated to evidence-based healthcare and founded The Confident Clinician, which empowers practitioners with up-to-date research and practical tools. With over 15 years in clinical practice and experience teaching at McMaster University's Health Sciences program, she bridges the gap between research and real-world application.Follow Dr. Jordan on Instagram----Do you ever wish there were a knowledge base built just for you?Have you searched for a resource that supported you so you could focus on what really matters for your business?The Confident Clinician is the ONLY medical knowledge base built for integrative practitioners.Over 750 clinician members have simplified their patient care by using our knowledge base and exclusive members-only education.Our knowledge base and clinical topics are updated on an ongoing basis and, and we offer exclusive members-only courses that support you, whatever your clinical focus.Ready to be supported in your work?Learn More About The Confident Clinician HereDiscover The Confident Clinician's 5-Day AI Smart-Search ChallengeIf you're a clinician and you're loving the content of the show, I'd love to invite you to subscribe to our clinician-focused free magazine called The Stacks. The Stacks offers research focused articles, editorials and opinion pieces on business and practice and unlocks some of our best Confident Clinician content every month.Subscribe to The Stacks Here----Thank you for listening. Please subscribe and share.

We hear from the lead author of a study looking at the increase in obesity rates Canada saw during the pandemic, McMaster University's Laura Anderson, and we hear from endocrinologist Dr. Tamara Spaic.

In this episode, recorded live at CCCF 2024, we sit down with Dr. Emilie Belley-Côté, a cardiac intensivist, researcher, and clinical trialist from McMaster University, to unpack cardiogenic shock: the SCAI classification.Whether you're in the ED, cath lab, or ICU, the SCAI (Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions) stages offer a common language to describe the severity of cardiogenic shock, guide escalation of care, and improve outcomes through structured assessment.Dr. Belley-Côté walks us through:The five SCAI stages (A through E): what they mean and how they're used.How this classification system improves communication between specialties.The importance of recognizing patients in pre-shock (Stage B) before they deteriorate.Real-world application: how SCAI staging intersects with clinical signs, biomarkers, and hemodynamic monitoring.Where the SCAI classification fits in research, including trials evaluating mechanical circulatory support and advanced heart failure therapies.With Dr. Belley-Côté's clear explanations and insights from the front lines of cardiac critical care, this episode is essential listening for anyone managing unstable cardiac patients.

Welcome back to Ditch the Lab Coat, the podcast where we break down the fascinating world of medicine with a blend of scientific skepticism and real-world insight. In today's episode, we dive deep into the mysteries of the vagus nerve—a nerve so ancient and essential, it's been called the “conductor” in the symphony of human physiology.Join host Dr. Mark Bonta as he sits down with Dr. Kevin Tracey, neurosurgeon, president and CEO of the Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, and a pioneer in the world of bioelectronic medicine. Dr. Tracey's breakthrough research has shown us that the vagus nerve is far more than just a conduit for signals—it's a key player in managing inflammation, regulating our immune system, and maybe even shaping the future of medicine.In this conversation, you'll explore the mind-bending complexity of the nervous system, discover how cutting-edge science is redefining how we treat diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and long Covid, and learn how a tiny chip implanted in the neck might one day replace whole classes of immune-suppressing drugs. Dr. Tracey shares metaphors, straight talk about medical myths, and a vision for a future where reprogramming the body's reflexes could offer relief to millions.Get ready for a journey that's equal parts awe-inspiring and practical, as we unpack the true potential (and real-world considerations) of harnessing the vagus nerve's power. Whether you're a healthcare professional, a science nerd, or just someone searching for new answers, this episode invites you to see medicine in a whole new way. Resources : ( https://feinstein.northwell.edu/ )Episode HighlightsVagus Nerve Complexity Unveiled — We're only scratching the surface of understanding the vagus nerve's vast, intricate network and its essential bodily roles.Inflammation: Friend and Foe — Inflammation is vital short-term, but when uncontrolled, it's destructive and underlies many autoimmune and chronic diseases.Nervous-Immune System Interplay — The nervous and immune systems communicate reflexively, with nerves directly capable of controlling immune and inflammatory responses.Bioelectronic Treatments Emerge — Vagus nerve stimulation—via implanted chips—shows promise for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis without full-body immunosuppression risks.Individualized Nerve Fiber Functions — Each of the 200,000 vagus fibers controls specific functions, forming a body-wide symphony of precision responses.Not All Self-Help Fits — Lifestyle hacks can support vagus health, but serious disease often requires targeted nerve stimulation, not general wellness.Caution Against Online Misinformation — Vagus nerve advice online is often oversimplified or inaccurate; nuance and scientific backing are essential.Lifestyle Still Matters — Balanced diet, sleep, exercise, and community all help regulate vagus nerve tone and reduce chronic stress.Future Disease Applications Possible — Vagus stimulation may treat IBD, MS, and neurodegenerative or psychiatric conditions as research evolves.Episode Timestamps6:25 — Exploring Nervous System Complexity9:08 — Vagus Nerve Controls Inflammation11:05 — Vagus Nerve: Brain Signals Control Inflammation15:45 — Nervous System's Role in Immunity20:43 — Understanding Your Vagus Nerves23:25 — Vagus Nerve Health and Research25:12 — Vagus Nerve Stimulation Insights29:36 — Vagus Nerve Stimulator: Inflammation Therapy32:13 — Neurotransmitter Effects on Cytokine Production38:22 — Minimizing Nerve Damage in Surgery39:30 — Vagus Nerve Stimulation Benefits43:42 — Exploring Vagus Nerve Mysteries46:42 — Vagus Nerve Stimulation for Autoimmune Diseases50:52 — Cold Plunges & Bioelectrical Future DISCLAMER >>>>>>    The Ditch Lab Coat podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not serve as a substitute for professional medical services such as medicine or nursing. It does not establish a doctor/patient relationship, and the use of information from the podcast or linked materials is at the user's own risk. The content does not aim to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and users should promptly seek guidance from healthcare professionals for any medical conditions.   >>>>>> The expressed opinions belong solely to the hosts and guests, and they do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Hospitals, Clinics, Universities, or any other organization associated with the host or guests.    Disclosures: Ditch The Lab Coat podcast is produced by (Podkind.co) and is independent of Dr. Bonta's teaching and research roles at McMaster University, Temerty Faculty of Medicine and Queens University. 

On this week's episode of Economic Update, Professor Wolff provides updates on Medicare advantage and "pre-authorization" as a way to reduce Medicare payments, liberals and radicals split over Mamdani,  Trump's current budget further deepens the inequality of wealth across the US, and Mexico attends the BRICS meeting in Rio de Janeiro. In the second part of today's show, Professor Wolff interviews Professor Henry Giroux from McMaster University, Canada, on capitalism, culture, and fascism in the U.S. today.   The d@w Team Economic Update with Richard D. Wolff is a DemocracyatWork.info Inc. production. We make it a point to provide the show free of ads and rely on viewer support to continue doing so.  You can support our work by joining our Patreon community:  https://www.patreon.com/democracyatwork Or you can go to our website: https://www.democracyatwork.info/donate     Every donation counts and helps us provide a larger audience with the information they need to better understand the events around the world they can't get anywhere else.  We want to thank our devoted community of supporters who help make this show and others we produce possible each week.1:01  We kindly ask you to also support the work we do by encouraging others to subscribe to our YouTube channel and website: www.democracyatwork.info

In this week's episode of Real Integrative Medicine, Dr. Jordan Robertson and Carmen Stansberry discuss the intersection of evidence-based practice and individualized care in women's health. Carmen shares her journey from conventional medicine to a holistic approach, emphasizing the importance of understanding the unique needs of women. They explore the complexities of symptoms like fatigue, the risks of over-screening, and the importance of building trusting relationships in healthcare. The conversation highlights the need for more research in women's health while advocating for a balanced approach that combines evidence with personalized care strategies.----Carmen Stansberry is a double board-certified nurse practitioner specializing in women's hormone health, perimenopause, longevity medicine, and the intersection of hormone deficiency with chronic disease risk and immune dysfunction. She is a leading voice in modern midlife health optimization, advocating for women to take charge of their well-being beyond outdated medical paradigms.As the founder of The Advanced Practice, Carmen not only built a successful private practice but also mentors clinicians on how to launch and scale high-impact, cash-based healthcare businesses that provide specialized and forward-thinking medical care. Through her expertise in clinical strategy, patient-centered care models, and marketing for modernhealthcare, she has helped countless providers transition from traditional systems into thriving, independent practices that prioritize outcomes, prevention, and patient autonomy.Carmen's approach bridges the gap between clinical expertise and business acumen, ensuring that both patients and practitioners have access to next-generation healthcare solutions. Her work has been featured in Verywell Health, Giddy, and multiple podcasts, and she serves as an expert clinical advisor for Hot Flash Inc., a media company dedicated to women's health in midlife.She holds graduate degrees from The George Washington University and Wayne State University and continues to push the conversation forward on women's health, perimenopause, and longevity, ensuring that women receive the evidence-based care they deserve.Learn More on Carmen's WebsiteFollow Carmen on Instagram----Dr. Jordan Robertson is a leader in naturopathic and integrative medicine. She is dedicated to evidence-based healthcare and founded The Confident Clinician, which empowers practitioners with up-to-date research and practical tools. With over 15 years in clinical practice and experience teaching at McMaster University's Health Sciences program, she bridges the gap between research and real-world application.Follow Dr. Jordan on Instagram----Do you ever wish there were a knowledge base built just for you?Have you searched for a resource that supported you so you could focus on what really matters for your business?The Confident Clinician is the ONLY medical knowledge base built for integrative practitioners.Over 750 clinician members have simplified their patient care by using our knowledge base and exclusive members-only education.Our knowledge base and clinical topics are updated on an ongoing basis and, and we offer exclusive members-only courses that support you, whatever your clinical focus.Ready to be supported in your work?Learn More About The Confident Clinician HereDiscover The Confident Clinician's 5-Day AI Smart-Search ChallengeIf you're a clinician and you're loving the content of the show, I'd love to invite you to subscribe to our clinician-focused free magazine called The Stacks. The Stacks offers research focused articles, editorials and opinion pieces on business and practice and unlocks some of our best Confident Clinician content every month.Subscribe to The Stacks Here----Thank you for listening. Please subscribe and share.

Welcome back to another episode of Ditch the Labcoat! This week, Dr. Mark Bonta is joined once again by the ever-insightful Dr. Dante Morra—innovator, internal medicine specialist, and the driving force behind the Can Health Network. In this wide-ranging conversation, they pull back the curtain on the current state and future of Canadian healthcare, tackling everything from the rise of AI-driven virtual care to the systemic issues clogging up our hospitals.Dr. Morra breaks down the four pillars of healthcare—catastrophic, chronic disease, episodic, and preventative—and reveals why technology and innovation are set to overhaul not only how care is delivered, but who's really in control. Together, they discuss why it's easier to buy alcohol and gamble than it is to book a physical exam, what it takes to nudge a population toward better health, and how Canadian-made solutions like virtual triage and optimized healthcare “front doors” could change the game.But most of all, this episode is about who will drive real change: not the policymakers or administrators, but people—patients, citizens, and entrepreneurs—who are tired of waiting, ready to take control, and brave enough to disrupt the system from the outside in. Whether you work in medicine, depend on it, or just want a preview of where our healthcare is headed, you'll leave with big ideas and plenty of hope for what's possible next. Plug in, listen up, and—as always—question everything.Episode Highlights1. Courage to Lead Change — Courage is essential to make necessary healthcare changes; everyone knows what to do, but few are willing to go first.2. Rise of AI in Care — AI surpasses traditional care in planned prevention, aggregating biomarkers and histories for optimized personal health plans.3. Healthcare's Four Categories — Understanding catastrophic, chronic, episodic, and preventative care clarifies where innovation and resources should be focused.4. Self-Directed Health Solutions — Technology empowers individuals to manage their healthcare directly, sometimes bypassing traditional systems entirely.5. Misaligned Incentives — Payment structures incentivize episodic and acute care over preventive or chronic care management, perpetuating system inefficiencies.6. Public vs Private Innovation — System transformation will likely come from private sector innovators, not within public institutions mired in political and structural inertia.7. Danger of Easy Vices — Society makes harmful behaviors like gambling and alcohol dangerously accessible, contributing significantly to declining population health.8. Canadian Healthcare Renaissance — Canada stands on the brink of a health innovation renaissance, with technology and empowered citizens leading the way.Episode Timestamps 6:10 — AI's Role in Episodic Care 9:32 — Optimizing Healthcare Access with AI 10:25 — Self-Care Revolution in Healthcare 14:51 — Canadian Healthcare Access Challenges 18:37 — Technology's Impact on Business Models 21:31 — Predictive Health Tools: Behavior Impact? 25:47 — "Courageous Leadership Challenges" 28:12 — Disrupted Pay Model in Healthcare 30:41 — Public vs. Private Industry Dynamics 35:53 — Healthcare System's Struggles and Growth 38:36 — "Virtual Hallway Revolutionizing Healthcare" 41:26 — Embracing Disruptive Health Technology 44:17 — Disruption Sparks Hopeful Healthcare ChangeDISCLAMER >>>>>>    The Ditch Lab Coat podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not serve as a substitute for professional medical services such as medicine or nursing. It does not establish a doctor/patient relationship, and the use of information from the podcast or linked materials is at the user's own risk. The content does not aim to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and users should promptly seek guidance from healthcare professionals for any medical conditions.   >>>>>> The expressed opinions belong solely to the hosts and guests, and they do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Hospitals, Clinics, Universities, or any other organization associated with the host or guests.    Disclosures: Ditch The Lab Coat podcast is produced by (Podkind.co) and is independent of Dr. Bonta's teaching and research roles at McMaster University, Temerty Faculty of Medicine and Queens University. 

Inside a viral video making claims about a Canadian chain and is completely fake Plus – A new wrinkle in the bike lane battle in Toronto GUESTS: David Shellnutt - The Biking Lawyer Marvin Ryder - associate professor of marketing at McMaster University

We're busting myths and breaking down the science behind some of the most misunderstood topics in wellness, starting with cycle syncing. Is it really the key to better workouts, or just another trend? We dive into what the research actually says and why women may not need totally different fitness advice after all.We also explore how muscle, fat loss, and bone health shift as we age—and what you can actually do about it. If you've ever felt confused by conflicting hormone advice, this episode is your no-BS guide to what's real, what's hype, and what your body actually needs.In this episode you'll learn: * How cycle syncing advice misses the mark* What we're getting wrong about fasted training* The truth about cortisol face* What women need to know about Ozempic and GLP-1s* Muscle-building basics for beginners* And more…Dr. Lauren Colenso-Semple is a muscle physiology researcher and science communicator with a Ph.D. in Integrative Physiology from McMaster University and an M.S. in Exercise Science from the University of South Florida. Her research focuses on how ovarian hormones influence exercise-induced adaptations, helping bridge the gap between female physiology and evidence-based training.In addition to her academic work, Dr. Colenso-Semple is an experienced strength and conditioning coach and sports nutrition expert. She brings years of hands-on experience to her science communication, making complex topics accessible and actionable. She is also a co-owner of the MASS Research Review, where she helps distill cutting-edge research for athletes, coaches, and health professionals.This episode is brought to you by beeya: * Learn more about beeya's seed cycling bundle at https://beeyawellness.com/free to find out how to tackle hormonal imbalances. * Get $10 off your order by using promo code BEHINDHEREMPIRE10Follow Yasmin: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yasminknouri/* Stay updated & subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.behindherempire.com/Follow Dr. Lauren: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlaurencs1/* Website: https://www.drlaurencs.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Real Integrative Medicine podcast, Dr. Jordan Robertson and Dr. Briana Botsford discuss the importance of proper nutrition in exercise, exploring Briana's journey from athlete to expert. They delve into the signs of under-fueling, the impact of nutrition on performance and hormones, and the significance of meal timing. The conversation emphasizes the need for curiosity in nutrition choices and the difference between knowledge and strategy in achieving optimal health and performance.----Dr. Briana Botsford is a Naturopathic Doctor, clinic owner and endurance athlete located in Edmonton Alberta Canada. She focuses on the intersection of sports medicine and women's health and her mission is to empower women and their families to lead vibrant and energized lives through evidence-based natural health care.Explore Dr. Briana's Course, Energy for Every Stride HereDiscover Flow Functional Health CareLearn More on Dr. Briana's WebsiteFollow Dr. Briana on Instagram----Dr. Jordan Robertson is a leader in naturopathic and integrative medicine. She is dedicated to evidence-based healthcare and founded The Confident Clinician, which empowers practitioners with up-to-date research and practical tools. With over 15 years in clinical practice and experience teaching at McMaster University's Health Sciences program, she bridges the gap between research and real-world application.Follow Dr. Jordan on Instagram----Do you ever wish there were a knowledge base built just for you?Have you searched for a resource that supported you so you could focus on what really matters for your business?The Confident Clinician is the ONLY medical knowledge base built for integrative practitioners.Over 750 clinician members have simplified their patient care by using our knowledge base and exclusive members-only education.Our knowledge base and clinical topics are updated on an ongoing basis and, and we offer exclusive members-only courses that support you, whatever your clinical focus.Ready to be supported in your work?Learn More About The Confident Clinician HereDiscover The Confident Clinician's 5-Day AI Smart-Search ChallengeIf you're a clinician and you're loving the content of the show, I'd love to invite you to subscribe to our clinician-focused free magazine called The Stacks. The Stacks offers research focused articles, editorials and opinion pieces on business and practice and unlocks some of our best Confident Clinician content every month.Subscribe to The Stacks Here----Thank you for listening. Please subscribe and share.

Self-care podcast Exploring Female Pelvic Floor Health, Overactive and Normal Bladder Function & Sexual Health & Pelvic Floor Exercises With Kristin Parise TOPICS:: ** Exploring Female Pelvic Floor Health (10:59). ** Overactive and Normal Bladder Function (15:25). ** Sexual Health & Pelvic Floor Exercises (23:40).   NOTES:: Show notes: amberapproved.ca/podcast/589 Leave me a review at amberapproved.ca/review Email me at info@amberapproved.ca   Sign up for The Body Brilliance Workshop: https://amber-romaniuk.mykajabi.com/body-brilliance    Subscribe to newsletter: https://amber-romaniuk.mykajabi.com/newsletter-sign-up    SHOW LINKS: Coaching Savings: Save $1000 off 6-month and $2000 off 12-month Private Coaching Programs for the month of July! Click below to schedule a 30 minute Complimentary Body Freedom Consultation https://amberapproved.ca/body-freedom-consultation/  Take my free Emotional Eating Quiz here: http://amberapproved.ca/emotional-eating-quiz Listen to Episode 291 about what it's like to work with me here: http://amberapproved.ca/podcast/291/ Follow me on Instagram www.instagram.com/amberromaniuk Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@amberromaniuk/  ABOUT MY GUEST: Kristen Parise has been a physiotherapist for more than 23 years, with a graduate degree in Exercise Physiology and a Bachelor of Health Science in Physiotherapy from McMaster University. She owns Blueberry Therapy, a pelvic health and pediatric therapy clinic in Dundas, Ontario. In 2020, she received the Women of Distinction Award in the Small Business category from the YWCA. Kristen has extensive experience working with children and adults in various settings like hospitals, children's treatment centers, outpatient clinics, and home care. She is deeply committed to research and evidence-based practice, continuing to teach at McMaster University to keep up with evolving trends. Kristen specializes in pelvic health rehabilitation, treating both adults and children with issues like incontinence, pelvic pain, and sexual dysfunction. She has grown Blueberry Therapy from a small clinic into a thriving practice with many services. Passionate about meeting clients' needs, Kristen recently launched an online store offering pelvic health products. She also started The Hole Shebang Podcast, discussing topics related to pelvic health. Additionally, Blueberry Therapy has expanded with the Blueberry Nest, a space for group programs such as prenatal yoga, Blueberry Core and Floor, and Perimenopause and Yoga. In 2025, the clinic will host courses and conferences, including The Pleasure Principle: Advancing Women's Sexual Health Together Conference. Keep up with Blueberry Therapy's latest updates on Instagram @blueberrytherapypelvichealth and Facebook @blueberrytherapy.  www.blueberrytherapy.ca  @blueberrytherapypelvichealth (Instagram) MY PARTNERS: One of the things I've been working on improving is my sleep. Sleep is extremely important for many different functions in the body, yet sometimes we can have trouble falling or staying asleep. That's why, I've not only ensured my sleep hygiene practice is supportive, I have a herbal ally that I have by my bedside at night in case I wake up and am having trouble falling back to sleep. And that my friends is WishGarden Herbs Sleepy Nights which includes passionflower, skullcap and hops. It helps calm my system and helps me fall back to sleep if I wake.   Crafted for rapid absorption, WishGarden's remedies provide swift and potent benefits that you'll feel in minutes. With no fillers, gums, binders, or sugars, they harness the full strength of botanicals in their purest and most effective form.    I add a few pumps of Sleepy Nights to my water and keep it by my bedside. They also have a wide array of other amazing herbal allies to help with mood, women's hormones and MUCH more. Discover the natural power of their legendary blends by visiting WishGardenHerbs.com/NoSugarcoating  or using code NOSUGARCOATING for 20 percent off your order.

Welcome to PsychEd, the psychiatry podcast for medical learners, by medical learners.This episode covers catatonia with Dr. Patricia Rosebush. Dr. Rosebush is a Professor in the Department of Psychiatry & Behavioural Neurosciences at McMaster University. She is the distinguished author of numerous articles on clinical neuroscience, including considerable work on mitochondrial disorders in mental illness and over 30 papers on catatonia, and practices consultation-liaison psychiatry at St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton.The learning objectives for this episode are as follows:By the end of this episode, the listener will be able to…Develop a conceptual understanding of catatoniaHave an approach for diagnosing catatoniaHave an approach for treating catatoniaGuest: Dr. Patricia RosebushHosts: Dr. Alastair Morrison (PGY1), Dr. Angad Singh (PGY1)Audio editing: Dr. Angad SinghShow notes: Dr. Alastair MorrisonInterview content:(01:20) Clinical features of catatonia (high level overview)(04:15) Clinical anecdote - an index case of catatonia(06:00) History of approaches to catatonia(10:00) Approach to different catatonia phenotypes(15:00) Categorization and ideas of mechanism(18:00) Assessing clinical signs of catatonia (24:00) Preserved awareness in catatonia(27:00) Investigations and differential diagnosis(30:00) First interventions: benzodiazepines and benzodiazepine withdrawal(41:30) Managing medical considerations in catatonia(45:00) Treating other psychiatric illnesses in the catatonic patient(49:00) Acute, chronic, and refractory treatmentsReferences:Barnes MP, Saunders M, Walls TJ, Saunders I, Kirk CA. The syndrome of Karl Ludwig Kahlbaum. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry. 1986 Sep;49(9):991-6. https://doi.org/10.1136/jnnp.49.9.991Bush G, Fink M, Petrides G, Dowling F, Francis A. Catatonia. I. Rating scale and standardized examination. Acta Psychiatr Scand. 1996 Feb;93(2):129-36. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1600-0447.1996.tb09814.xPsychDB. (2023, November 23). Catatonia. https://www.psychdb.com/cl/0-catatoniaRosebush PI, Mazurek MF. Catatonia and its treatment. Schizophr Bull. 2010 Mar;36(2):239-42. https://doi.org/10.1093/schbul/sbp141For more PsychEd, follow us on Instagram (@psyched.podcast),  Facebook (PsychEd Podcast), X (@psychedpodcast), and Bluesky (@psychedpodcast.bsky.social‬). You can email us at psychedpodcast@gmail.com and visit our website at psychedpodcast.org.

In this episode of Real Integrative Medicine, Dr. Jordan Robertson sits down with Dr. Katie Thomson Aitken to explore a topic that's often misunderstood: autism, especially in women.We unpack what late diagnoses can mean for confidence, self-compassion, and care. You'll learn how autistic burnout differs from depression and stress, why so many women go undiagnosed, and why support and accommodation matter with or without a label.Whether you're autistic, neurodivergent, or just curious, this episode offers thoughtful insights, compassion, and a much-needed reframe of what it means to belong.----Dr. Katie Thomson Aitken, ND is the Founder of Tranquil Minds, a series of educational and clinical programming for anxious people, and author of the best-selling book Create Calm. With a decade of clinical experience in treating anxiety and mental health, Katie's passion is helping people step back into the driver's seat of their life, reconnect with their inner peace and move their decision-driver from fear to love. She lives in Guelph, Ontario, with her family.Learn more on Dr. Katie's WebsiteFollow Dr. Katie on Instagram----Dr. Jordan Robertson is a leader in naturopathic and integrative medicine. She is dedicated to evidence-based healthcare and founded The Confident Clinician, which empowers practitioners with up-to-date research and practical tools. With over 15 years in clinical practice and experience teaching at McMaster University's Health Sciences program, she bridges the gap between research and real-world application.Follow Dr. Jordan on Instagram----Do you ever wish there were a knowledge base built just for you?Have you searched for a resource that supported you so you could focus on what really matters for your business?The Confident Clinician is the ONLY medical knowledge base built for integrative practitioners.Over 750 clinician members have simplified their patient care by using our knowledge base and exclusive members-only education.Our knowledge base and clinical topics are updated on an ongoing basis and, and we offer exclusive members-only courses that support you, whatever your clinical focus.Ready to be supported in your work?Learn More About The Confident Clinician HereLearn More About The Magic is in the Visit Webinar Series Discover The Confident Clinician's 5-Day AI Smart-Search ChallengeIf you're a clinician and you're loving the content of the show, I'd love to invite you to subscribe to our clinician-focused free magazine called The Stacks. The Stacks offers research focused articles, editorials and opinion pieces on business and practice and unlocks some of our best Confident Clinician content every month.Subscribe to The Stacks Here----Thank you for listening. Please subscribe and share.

Dr. James Rusthoven is Professor Emeritus in the Department of Oncology at McMaster University, and Research Fellow in the Kirby Lang Center for Public Theology in Cambridge. He is known for his contributions to the field of medical oncology and bioethics. Dr. Rusthoven joined the Theology, Medicine, and Culture in Spring of 2023 for this virtual seminar, "Living Out an Intentional Theology of Faithful Presence in Medicine."

Welcome back to Ditch the Labcoat, the show where we challenge assumptions in medicine and seek out the systems, stories, and science that truly shape healthcare. In today's episode, we're joined by Martin Bromiley: airline captain, human factors champion, and founder of the Clinical Human Factors Group.But before he became a global advocate for patient safety, Martin faced unimaginable tragedy when his wife, Elaine, died following what was supposed to be a routine surgical procedure in 2005.Martin's journey isn't just about personal loss—it's about his relentless quest to understand why a well-trained, technically proficient medical team could still fall short in a critical moment. Drawing lessons from aviation, where errors spark investigation and learning rather than resignation, Martin became a pivotal force in bringing the science of human factors—a field all about understanding how people interact with their environment, teams, and tools—into the world of healthcare.In this conversation, we explore not just the events that launched his mission, but the broader issues of humility, communication, and system design. We talk about “can't intubate, can't ventilate” scenarios, reflect on the evolution of patient safety culture, and crack open the stubborn problem of medical hierarchy. Martin's story isn't just one of systemic frustration; it's also one of hope and tangible change.So whether you're a healthcare professional, a patient, or just someone curious about how lives can be saved not simply by skill, but by safer systems—this episode is a gripping, essential listen. Plug in and prepare to have your ideas about medicine, teamwork, and learning turned upside down.Episode HighlightsHumility in Healthcare – Humility is vital for professionals to learn, grow, and stay open to feedback, ultimately improving patient safety.Communication Saves Lives – Miscommunications in critical situations can be fatal; clear, assertive dialogue and defined roles are essential in emergencies.Teamwork Over Hierarchy – Breaking down rigid medical hierarchies empowers every team member to speak up for patient safety.Design Smarter Systems – Systems must be created to make errors less likely, whether via technology, checklists, or better equipment design. Independent Case Reviews – Conducting external, impartial reviews after adverse events helps identify root causes and leads to improvements.Small Changes, Big Impact – Reducing steps in processes, standardizing equipment, or tweaking procedures can greatly decrease error risks.Continuous Improvement Mindset – Perfection isn't possible, but aiming to get a little better every day is the key to safer healthcare for all.Episode Timestamps 6:15 — Turning Point: Embracing Human Factors 7:19 — "Science Overlooked in Healthcare" 11:01 — Intensive Care Transfer Decision 14:51 — Receptionist Sparks Important Meeting 18:11 — Evolution of Case Review Processes 22:27 — "Human Factors in Healthcare Initiative" 25:02 — Origin of Aviation Safety Protocols 28:28 — Enhancing Safety in Drug Handling 30:30 — Medication Errors and Design Flaws 33:49 — Promoting Human Factors in Healthcare 38:04 — Team Leadership in Medical Procedures 42:51 — Healthcare Pressures and Consequences 44:47 — "Concerns Over Arrogant Healthcare Professionals" 50:16 — Striving for Continuous Improvement in Healthcare 52:36 — Progress in Healthcare Culture ShiftDISCLAMER >>>>>>    The Ditch Lab Coat podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not serve as a substitute for professional medical services such as medicine or nursing. It does not establish a doctor/patient relationship, and the use of information from the podcast or linked materials is at the user's own risk. The content does not aim to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and users should promptly seek guidance from healthcare professionals for any medical conditions.   >>>>>> The expressed opinions belong solely to the hosts and guests, and they do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Hospitals, Clinics, Universities, or any other organization associated with the host or guests.    Disclosures: Ditch The Lab Coat podcast is produced by (Podkind.co) and is independent of Dr. Bonta's teaching and research roles at McMaster University, Temerty Faculty of Medicine and Queens University. 

In this episode of the Real Integrative Medicine podcast, Dr. Jordan Robertson and Dr. Laurie Alpert delve into the intricate relationship between sleep and perimenopause. They discuss the hormonal changes that lead to sleep disturbances, the importance of an integrative approach to sleep management, and effective behavioural strategies to improve sleep quality. The conversation emphasizes the need for awareness of sleep hygiene and the impact of daily habits on overall well-being, particularly during the perimenopausal phase. Dr. Laurie introduces her eight-week program designed to empower individuals to take charge of their sleep during this transitional phase, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach that considers hormonal changes, behavioural strategies, and personal accountability.----Dr. Laurie offers women who do it all effective, integrative and transformative health care that allows them to fully show up in midlife with confidence, clarity, and choice. Her mission is to shift the experience for hard-working women away from the boundaryless self-sacrifice and hormonal suffering that has been normalized beyond recognition, to a life of strength, sustainable energy, and hormonal harmony.  As a NAMS Certified Menopause Practitioner (NCMP) she enjoys supporting women through their midlife hormonal transition by combining up to date evidence based information, goal setting, and shared decision making. Drawing from her years of practice as a naturopathic doctor and combining extensive research into sleep, hormones, menopause, and mental health, she guides women just like you back into a life full of strength, confidence, and connection.Discover Dr. Laurie's Perimenopause Sleep Solution CourseFollow Dr. Laurie on Instagram----Dr. Jordan Robertson is a leader in naturopathic and integrative medicine. She is dedicated to evidence-based healthcare and founded The Confident Clinician, which empowers practitioners with up-to-date research and practical tools. With over 15 years in clinical practice and experience teaching at McMaster University's Health Sciences program, she bridges the gap between research and real-world application.Follow Dr. Jordan on Instagram----Do you ever wish there were a knowledge base built just for you?Have you searched for a resource that supported you so you could focus on what really matters for your business?The Confident Clinician is the ONLY medical knowledge base built for integrative practitioners.Over 750 clinician members have simplified their patient care by using our knowledge base and exclusive members-only education.Our knowledge base and clinical topics are updated on an ongoing basis and, and we offer exclusive members-only courses that support you, whatever your clinical focus.Ready to be supported in your work?Learn More About The Confident Clinician HereDiscover The Confident Clinician's 5-Day AI Smart-Search ChallengeIf you're a clinician and you're loving the content of the show, I'd love to invite you to subscribe to our clinician-focused free magazine called The Stacks. The Stacks offers research focused articles, editorials and opinion pieces on business and practice and unlocks some of our best Confident Clinician content every month.Subscribe to The Stacks Here----Thank you for listening. Please subscribe and share.

Bonus Crossover Episode from Sound-Up Governance. For more info, visit http://www.groundupgovernance.com   TRANSCRIPT Matt Intro Hi everyone! This is Matt Fullbrook. It's been a LOOOONG time since I posted anything here on the OMG channel, and…actually I don't have any real updates for you. Sorry! I just wanted to let you know that there's some new content on the Sound-Up Governance podcast. I've just launched a short series of episodes based around a cool webinar I did last year with some experts in business design where we explored the connection between design thinking and good governance. Here's the first instalment. If you like what you hear, be sure to follow along at groundupgovernance.com    Matt Voiceover Welcome back to Sound-Up Governance. My name is Matt Fullbrook, and today we have the first in a short series of episodes that come from a webinar that I co hosted a few months back with my old friend Michael Hartmann, who's the Principal of the Directors College at McMaster University. He invited a couple of his friends to join us. Karel Vredenburg, who was the global VP of UX Research at IBM, and Tara Safaie, who's the executive Director of Health and Organizational Innovation at the design firm, IDEO. I've become increasingly convinced over the past few years that good governance is a design challenge. If you're familiar with my framing of good governance as intentionally cultivating effective conditions for making decisions and also familiar with design thinking, then you already know what I'm talking about. I honestly had no idea at first that I was talking like a design guy, but now I'm all the way bought in. Tara, Karel and Michael further reinforced this perspective in our discussion. But we'll get to that a bit later. Let's start first with some definitions. The first voice you'll hear is Michael, followed by Karel. Michael Hartmann I remember going out trying to introduce companies to this thing called design, and a lot of eyes would be like, blank, saying, what is this? 25 years later, 24 years later, it's ubiquitous. Design is everywhere. But as my colleagues will say, it's everywhere. Not done well. More often than not, we brought it into Directors College and for a couple of reasons. And we're going to explore those reasons. One, if you think about the core roles, responsibilities of board, CEO, selection, talent. Well, of course, strategy is a critical one. You know, setting the lanes for management, sometimes moving the lanes with management as well. But design is a really interesting way to think about strategy development and execution. I wanted Karel to maybe introduce some of the design. What do we mean by design? And for my colleagues around the table here, how can boards leverage design principles for better strategy? So that's a starting point, Karel, and maybe a question over to you. Karel Vredenberg Yeah, let's let me start. And some of the people that are listening, I'm sure have heard this story. If you were in my. In my session. But I love to share that I talked about design thinking at a university was an interdisciplinary lecture. The Dean of the business school said as a question later, said, we're all learning design thinking now. This is really, really good. Do we still need designers? I said, yeah, there's a difference between design and design thinking. And so the notion of design, that intentional process to research, ideate, and then actually create and then iterate on things that you're creating, whether it's websites, apps, products or services. That's sort of design and design thinking is really the, as it states the thinking, the, the way to actually take a perspective on a particular problem, to solve a problem in a, in a more intentional empathic, looking at all stakeholders and alike, more holistic sort of approach. And so that's how I see them being different. And the way that I've used design thinking in companies, both for typically the C suite I've worked with and, and then with boards, is really to open the aperture in ways that they've never thought before. There were a couple of instances where after I spent like a day and a half with, with them, they came up with a set of directions strategically where they realized that there were things that they came up with through this way of thinking that they realized there were certain things that were on their five year plan that were absolutely things they shouldn't be doing. And there were other things that were really simple to do but they'd never thought of them because they'd never used this design lens that now became their number one priority. So I think it's an incredibly powerful tool to be able to set strategy for an organization. Matt Voiceover Before getting to Tara's perspective, you'll hear her and eventually Karel refer to Agile. Now I'm no expert in Agile, so please forgive me if any of you listeners are experts and I'm messing something up. In short, it's a set of frameworks and practices originally designed for project management in software development that are rooted in certain priorities and principles. For example, it's more important to prototype, iterate and respond to change than it is to adhere dogmatically to a preset plan. Anyway, here's Tara's perspective on what human-centered design means for organizations. Tara Safaie Many of these approaches are a combination of pedagogy and methods and you know, certain steps that you're supposed to take. But they also introduce mindsets or ways of looking at and thinking about problems or context in a way that is different from how many organizations traditionally look at problems. So I think what's useful about design as a methodology, and you alluded to it, Karel, is that it often forces many organizations to think about their problems in a more human-centered way because you have to find a case for a desirable solution before you go on to actually making that solution a reality using more agile methods. Agile and design both have as part of their methodology iterative processes. So where you start in lower fidelity and progressively build your fidelity and an investment and things like that as you learn and as you fail and things like that. And so I think it's worth noting that while the methods themselves often yield great results and they are worth in many cases implementing in the right corners of an organization to yield the outcomes and the products that they can yield. And it's also worth noting where those mindsets that they're bringing to the table are most impactful so the two can be treated in conjunction with one another. And then to make them a more sustainable part of an organization's being, to make them really course through the bloodstream of an organization that requires much more kind of long tail change and a different type of approach integrating it into organizations where they're, where it's not present at the moment. Karel Vredenberg Hey, Tara, I want to just add one other thought to that and that is that of course, yeah, I always imagine it as if you think that you have this big canvas of what the solution was going to end up being. If you just do Agile, you'll start so say on the top right of that campus that solutions space. Right. And yes, you'll be able to iterate, but you're going to be roughly still in that top right quadrant of the canvas. Design thinking right at the front of it may well tell you that you really need to be in the bottom left to really serve the market. And that's whether products or services or work of a board where you want to think more deeply about what's the bigger picture view of where this company should go. Matt Voiceover So you'll already see an important intersection here with my framing of corporate governance as people making decisions in corporations, I the first and most important step in effective decision making is a clear definition of the problem we're trying to solve. As Tara and Karel are defining it, that's where design starts too. Okay, so let's start moving into some useful insights for boards. I mean the design world has in my opinion generally done a pretty poor job at helping boards to do their jobs well. With this in mind, Michael prompted our guests with a reminder that boards tend to be, well, risk avoidant. So how do we embrace design when that's our starting point? Michael Hartmann Board directors, when we query about innovation, one of the common feedbacks we get is we wish we could be more open to risk as opposed to de risking embracing innovation design. I also see that it's a really interesting way to kind of, you know, stress test and build a capacity for risk taking. And I don't know Tara, if you've got some thoughts on that. Tara Safaie Yeah, absolutely. A couple of anecdotes. One is that I think organizations that have really adopted design in a powerful way in their organization, have adopted the mindset that ideas are disposable. Matt Voiceover I just want to interject here. Imagine a world where we approached governance ideas as disposable instead of embracing them as orthodoxy. OMG, it's like a dream come true. Sorry Tara, you were saying... Tara Safaie They have right sized the investment that they put into an idea to the maturity of that idea. So what I see many organizations do, particularly my, my clients in the healthcare space, is that they are very quick to jump on the first couple of ideas that they come up with because they are so deeply expert in the area that they're working in. Like many of them have spent decades learning to be the professional that they are. That expertise gets translated into these ideas that when, when thrown into the thunderdome of the real world or of a patient's world, let's say, just don't survive the key shift that occurs with organizations that are able to adopt design mindsets, you know, kind of deeply in their organization and adopt the level of risk that it requires. Have learned how to test their ideas in low fidelity ways. And so where they are able to identify the most core assumptions that they're holding, maybe because their expertise has kind of put blinders on them, or they only work with a particular type of customer and they want to expand to a new type, they don't know that customer as well, whatever it might be, that they're a western organization designing for a non western customer base or a global south customer base, whatever it might be. And so they're able to understand what the most deeply held assumptions in their solutions are and then design tests to test those assumptions in low fidelity ways. You can't build certainty in any of the paths that you're taking, but you can build confidence. So your goal in any type of design exercise, and again, organizations that have internalized this, know this deeply, your goal is not to be certain. Your goal is to gain confidence. And so organizations that are testing their ideas in low fidelity ways are testing whether their assumptions hold. And as they build confidence, then build the confidence to slowly invest more and more as the stakes get, you know, the stakes get higher. They've invested more in the, in the back as well. And that allows them some of the agility, as we were talking about before, to then respond to a change in market context or a change in the competitive landscape or something else that might shift where those assumptions were tested initially. The risk profile that most organizations have does not necessarily preclude them from having low fidelity and therefore small investment, high risk things on the side. What they are not seasoned in doing is then transversing the space between that low fidelity and very low investment idea to the full fledged one. That's really going to require a lot of money. Karel Vredenberg Yeah, I would just add, I want to amplify something you said too, like the low fidelity idea. That's really a prototype, right. And what is a prototype precisely? It's, it's really a low risk way of exploring something. So people talk about, oh, you really should be increasing your, your, your failure rate. You learn from failure. And everybody, you know Silicon Valley loves to say that, right? Yeah, they love to say it because 90% of them fail. But in fact, if they did the kind of things that Tara and I are talking about here, doing just a small prototype, it might be a new way of working as a, as a board, let's say. And you want to just try that out? Well, you can just try it out in your meetings. That's a prototype. And then after, let's say you do, you know, sort of an off site or whatever, let's, let's see what that was like, get some feedback on it and the like as well. So it's this whole mindset of, of doing small prototypes that can fail. But you're not failing big, you're testing first, seeing if something's going to work. And then if it's going to work, then you can scale it up and do it across a whole organizational like as well. It's a fantastic, phenomenal way to de risk by taking risks. Matt Voiceover That's a wrap on the first episode in this series. Let me just say that this prototyping approach really works in boardrooms. I like to think of it as crafting a 1% intervention rather than a revolution. An intervention designed intentionally and specifically to increase the probability that we'll get a, a better result in some small part of our work together. Maybe it's a change to reporting or a shift in our agendas, or a new conversation prompt after a presentation or a different lunch caterer. Whatever it is, the consequence of failure is essentially zero and the potential for learning is high. Stay tuned for the next episode in the series coming up soon. And drop me a note to let me know what you thought of this episode. If you liked it, please consider spreading the word. Oh, and as usual, I've provided some notes on today's music on the episode post at groundupgovernance.com Catch you next time.

“We're in a protein craze, and it's hard to ignore,” writes New York Times health reporter Alice Callahan. Social media feeds are inundated with claims about protein – encouraging protein-maxxing diets that contain many times the federal recommendations, and pushing supplements, artificial protein sources and lots of red meat. We'll talk with Callahan and nutritionists about how to evaluate your own protein needs — and the risks of the online protein obsession. Guests: Alice Callahan, nutrition reporter, The New York Times Christopher Gardner, nutrition scientist and professor of medicine, Stanford Prevention Research Center Stuart Phillips, professor of kinesiology and nutrition researcher, McMaster University in Ontario, Canada Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“VO2 max is the single largest predictor of how long and how well you're going to live,” explains Andy Galpin, Ph.D. In this episode, you'll hear from: Andy Galpin, Ph.D., a professor of kinesiology, Executive Director of the Human Performance Center at Parker University, on why VO2 max is the #1 predictor of lifespan and how to improve your VO2 max fast  Martin Gibala, Ph.D., professor of kinesiology at McMaster University, on whether heart rate zone or perceived exertion matters more Abbie Smith-Ryan, Ph.D., a physiologist and exercise scientist, on the specifics of how to structure your workouts for maximum VO2 max gains. Vonda Wright, M.D., double-board certified orthopedic surgeon, on sprint interval training vs VO2 max training We'll cover: - VO2 max is the #1 predictor of lifespan (~1:57) - You can change your VO2 max fast (~4:05) - Ways to improve VO2 max (~4:48) - How often should you be training? (~6:55) - How to build Vo2 max without injury (~7:35) - Heart rate zones vs. perceived effort (~9:40) - The most effective way to improve VO2 max (~11:30) - Surprising benefits of 1 minute workouts (~13:42) - Sprint interval training vs. VO2 max training (~15:30) - What is the fragility line? (~17:48) - How to train for longevity (~18:55) Listen to the full episodes here:  - The largest predictor of longevity we don't talk about | Performance coach & scientist Andy Galpin, Ph.D. - How to do less cardio with better results | Martin Gibala, Ph.D. - A woman's guide to metabolism, protein, & training smarter | Abbie Smith-Ryan, Ph.D. - Why women should lift heavier & eat more | Vonda Wright, MD, MS Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices