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This is a hybrid heart disease risk factor post of a podcast with Prof Bruce Lanphear on lead and a piece I was asked to write for the Washington Post on risk factors for heart disease.First, the podcast. You may have thought the problem with lead exposure was circumscribed to children, but it's a much bigger issue than that. I'll concentrate on the exposure risk to adults in this interview, including the lead-estrogen hypothesis. Bruce has been working on the subject of lead exposure for more than 30 years. Let me emphasize that the problem is not going away, as highlighted in a recent New England Journal of Medicine piece on lead contamination in Milwaukee schools, “The Latest Episode in an Ongoing Toxic Pandemic.”Transcript with links to the audio and citationsEric Topol (00:05):Well, hello. This is Eric Topol with Ground Truths, and I'm very delighted to welcome Professor Bruce Lanphear from Simon Fraser University in British Columbia for a very interesting topic, and that's about lead exposure. We tend to think about lead poisoning with the Flint, Michigan, but there's a lot more to this story. So welcome, Bruce.Bruce Lanphear (00:32):Thank you, Eric. It's great to be here.Eric Topol (00:33):Yeah. So you had a New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) Review in October last year, which was probably a wake up to me, and I'm sure to many others. We'll link to that, where you reviewed the whole topic, the title is called Lead Poisoning. But of course it's not just about a big dose, but rather chronic exposure. So maybe you could give us a bit of an overview of that review that you wrote for NEJM.Bruce Lanphear (01:05):Yeah, so we really focused on the things where we feel like there's a definitive link. Things like lead and diminished IQ in children, lead and coronary heart disease, lead and chronic renal disease. As you mentioned, we've typically thought of lead as sort of the overt lead poisoning where somebody becomes acutely ill. But over the past century what we've learned is that lead is one of those toxic chemicals where it's the chronic wear and tear on our bodies that catches up and it's at the root of many of these chronic diseases that are causing problems today.Eric Topol (01:43):Yeah, it's pretty striking. The one that grabbed me and kind of almost fell out of my chair was that in 2019 when I guess the most recent data there is 5.5 million cardiovascular deaths ascribed to relatively low levels, or I guess there is no safe level of lead exposure, that's really striking. That's a lot of people dying from something that cardiology and medical community is not really aware of. And there's a figure 3 [BELOW] that we will also show in the transcript, where you show the level where you start to see a takeoff. It starts very low and by 50 μg/liter, you're seeing a twofold risk and there's no threshold, it keeps going up. How many of us do you think are exposed to that type of level as adults, Bruce?Bruce Lanphear (02:39):Well, as adults, if we go back in time, all of us. If you go back to the 1970s when lead was still in gasoline, the median blood lead level of Americans was about 13 to 15 µg/dL. So we've all been exposed historically to those levels, and part of the reason we've begun to see a striking decline in coronary heart disease, which peaked in 1968. And by 1978, there was a 20% decline, 190,000 more people were alive than expected. So even in that first decade, there was this striking decline in coronary heart disease. And so, in addition to the prospective studies that have found this link between an increase in lead exposure and death from cardiovascular disease and more specifically coronary heart disease. We can look back in time and see how the decline in leaded gasoline led to a decline in heart disease and hypertension.Eric Topol (03:41):Yeah, but it looks like it's still a problem. And you have a phenomenal graph that's encouraging, where you see this 95% reduction in the lead exposure from the 1970s. And as you said, the factors that can be ascribed to like getting rid of lead from gasoline and others. But what is troubling is that we still have a lot of people that this could be a problem. Now, one of the things that was fascinating is that you get into that herbal supplements could be a risk factor. That we don't do screening, of course, should we do screening? And there's certain people that particularly that you consider at high risk that should get screened. So I wasn't aware, I mean the one type of supplements that you zoomed in on, how do you say it? Ayurvedic?Supplements With LeadBruce Lanphear (04:39):Oh yeah. So this is Ayurvedic medicine and in fact, I just was on a Zoom call three weeks ago with a husband and wife who live in India. The young woman had taken Ayurvedic medicine and because of that, her blood lead levels increased to 70 µg/dL, and several months later she was pregnant, and she was trying to figure out what to do with this. Ayurvedic medicine is not well regulated. And so, that's one of the most important sources when we think about India, for example. And I think you pointed out a really important thing is number one, we don't know that there's any safe level even though blood lead levels in the United States and Europe, for example, have come down by over 95%. The levels that we're exposed to and especially the levels in our bones are 10 to 100 times higher than our pre-industrial ancestors.Bruce Lanphear (05:36):So we haven't yet reached those levels that our ancestors were exposed to. Are there effects at even lower and lower levels? Everything would suggest, we should assume that there is, but we don't know down below, let's say one microgram per deciliter or that's the equivalent of 10 parts per billion of lead and blood. What we also know though is when leaded gasoline was restricted in the United States and Canada and elsewhere, the companies turned to the industrializing countries and started to market it there. And so, we saw first the epidemic of coronary heart disease in the United States, Canada, Europe. Then that's come down over the past 50 years. At the same time, it was rising in low to middle income countries. So today over 95% of the burden of disease from lead including heart disease is found in industrializing countries.Eric Topol (06:34):Right. Now, it's pretty striking, of course. Is it true that airlines fuel is still with lead today?Bruce Lanphear (06:45):Well, not commercial airlines. It's going to be a small single piston aircraft. So for example, when we did a study down around the Santa Clara County Airport, Reid-Hillview, and we can see that the children who live within a half mile of the airport had blood lead levels about 10% higher than children that live further away. And the children who live downwind, 25% higher still. Now, nobody's mapped out the health effects, but one of the things that's particularly troubling about emissions from small aircraft is that the particle size of lead is extraordinarily small, and we know how nanoparticles because they have larger surface area can be more problematic. They also can probably go straight up into the brain or across the pulmonary tissues, and so those small particles we should be particularly worried about. But it's been such a long journey to try to figure out how to get that out of aircraft. It's a problem. The EPA recognized it. They said it's an endangerment, but the industry is still pushing back.Eric Topol (07:55):Yeah, I mean, it's interesting that we still have these problems, and I am going to in a minute ask you what we can do to just eradicate lead as much as possible, but we're not there yet. But one study that seemed to be hard to believe that you cited in the review. A year after a ban leaded fuel in NASCAR races, mortality from coronary heart disease declined significantly in communities near racetracks. Can you talk about that one because it's a little bit like the one you just mentioned with the airports?Bruce Lanphear (08:30):Yeah. Now that study particularly, this was by Alex Hollingsworth, was particularly looking at people over 65. And we're working on a follow-up study that will look at people below 65, but it was quite striking. When NASCAR took lead out of their fuel, he compared the rates of coronary heart disease of people that live nearby compared to a control group populations that live further away. And he did see a pretty striking reduction. One of the things we also want to look at in our follow-up is how quickly does that risk begin to taper off? That's going to be really important in terms of trying to develop a strategy around preventing lead poisoning. How quickly do we expect to see it fall? I think it's probably going to be within 12 to 24 months that we'll see benefits.Eric Topol (09:20):That's interesting because as you show in a really nice graphic in adults, which are the people who would be listening to this podcast. Of course, they ought to be concerned too about children and all and reproductive health. But the point about the skeleton, 95% of the lead is there and the main organs, which we haven't mentioned the kidney and the kidney injury that occurs no less the cardiovascular, the blood pressure elevation. So these are really, and you mentioned not necessarily highlighted in that graphic, but potential cognitive hit as well. You also wrote about how people who have symptoms of abdominal pain, memory impairment, and high blood pressure that's unexplained, maybe they should get a blood level screening. I assume those are easy to get, right?Bruce Lanphear (10:17):Oh yeah, absolutely. You can get those in any hospital, any clinic across the country. We're still struggling with having those available where it's most needed in the industrializing countries, but certainly available here. Now, we don't expect that for most people who have those symptoms, lead poisoning is going to be the cause, right. It'd still be unusual unless you work in an industry, for example, smelting batteries to recycle them. We don't expect it to be real common, and we're not even sure, Eric, whether we should be doing widespread screening. If I looked at this as a population scientist, the real focus should be on identifying the sources. We mostly know where those are here and radically moving it down. Getting rid of the lead service lines, which was such a big part of what President Biden was doing, and it was perfect. For every dollar invested to reduce lead exposure from those lead service lines. Ronnie Levin at Harvard said there'd be a 35-fold return in cost, benefits really, and this has always been true, that reducing lead exposure throughout the past 40 years has always been shown to be amazingly cost beneficial. The problem is operating within a free market health system, even though there's tremendous social benefits, that benefit isn't going to be monetized or privatized. And so, who's going to make those decisions? We hope our government is, but that doesn't always play out.Eric Topol (11:52):Well. What's interesting is, as opposed to the problems we have today that are prominent such as the microplastic, nanoplastics, the air pollution, the forever chemicals, that just keep getting worse, I mean, they are just cumulative. This one, there was tremendous improvement, but it's still not enough. And I guess you're zooming in on the lead lines. That'd be the most important thing to work on today. Another thing that has come up, there's been trials, as you may I'm sure, because all over this field of chelation, there's a trial that was run by the NIH, supported by NH that looked at chelation to prevent coronary disease. Is there any evidence that people who have a problem with lead would benefit from chelation therapy?Bruce Lanphear (12:44):Well, there's two major studies that have been done, and Tony Lamas was in charge of both of them. The first one Trial to Assess Chelation Therapy (TACT) study, it was a randomized controlled trial, not intended specifically to focus on lead, but rather it was to look at sort of this alternative therapy. They found significant benefits about an 18% reduction in subsequent cardiac events. That led to a second study that was just published last year, and it was focused on people who had diabetes. They saw some benefit, but it wasn't significant. So whether that's because there wasn't enough variability and exposure, it's not entirely clear, but we've seen this with lead in IQ deficits in kids where we can show that we can reduce blood lead levels. But ultimately what tends to happen is once you've taken lead out of the blood, some of it's released again from the bone, but you still have all that lead in the bone that's there. You get some of it out, but you're not going to get the bulk of it out.The Lead-Estrogen HypothesisEric Topol (13:47):Right. It's a reservoir that's hard to reckon with. Yeah. Now another thing, you have a Substack that is called Plagues, Pollution & Poverty, and you wrote a really provocative piece in that earlier and April called How Estrogen Keeps Lead - and Heart Attacks - in Check, and basically you got into the lead estrogen hypothesis.Eric Topol (14:10):Can you enlighten us about that?Bruce Lanphear (14:12):Yeah. A lot of the seminal work in this area was done by Ellen Silbergeld, who's a brilliant and somewhat peculiar toxicologist and Ellen for years, I focused on childhood lead exposure, and for years Ellen would tell me, almost demolish me for not studying adults. And because she had found back in 1988 that as women go into menopause, their blood lead levels spike increased by about 30%, and that's where most of our lead is stored is in our bone. And so, as I was thinking about this, it all became clear because blood lead levels in boys and girls is about the same. It's comparable up until menarche, and then girls young women's blood leads fall by about 20%. And they stay 20% lower throughout the reproductive years until menopause. And especially during those first few years around menopause, perimenopause, you see fairly striking increases in the weakening of the bone and blood lead levels.Bruce Lanphear (15:19):So that might very well help to explain why estrogen is protected, because what happens is throughout the reproductive life, women are losing a little bit of lead every month. And estrogen is at its lowest during that time, and that's going to be when blood lead is at its highest because estrogen pushes lead into the bone. Not only that, women lose lead into the developing fetus when they're pregnant. So what Ellen found is that there was less of a spike around menopause for the women that had three or four pregnancies because they had offloaded that into their babies. So all of this, if you put it together, and this is of course in a very short note of it, you can see that lead increases dyslipidemia, it leads to tears in the endothelium of the arterial wall, it's going to increase thrombosis. All of these things that we think of as the classic atherosclerosis. Well, what estrogen does is the opposite of those. It decreases dyslipidemia, it repairs the arterial endothelial wall. So how much of it is that estrogen is protective, and how much is it that it's moving lead out of the system, making it less biologically available?Eric Topol (16:46):Yeah, I know. It's really interesting. Quite provocative. Should be followed up on, for sure. Just getting to you, you're a physician and epidemiologist, MD MPH, and you have spent your career on this sort of thing, right? I mean, is your middle name lead or what do you work on all the time?Bruce Lanphear (17:09):Yeah, I've been doing this for about 30 years, and one of my mentors, Herb Needleman spent 40 years of his career on it. And in some ways, Eric, it seems to me particularly in these very difficult entrenched problems like lead, we don't have any pharmaceutical company reaching out to us to promote what we do. We've got industry trying to squash what we do.Bruce Lanphear (17:35):It really does take a career to really make a dent in this stuff. And in a way, you can look at my trajectory and it is really following up on what Herb Needleman did and what Clare Patterson did, and that was finding the effects at lower and lower levels. Because what we do with lead and most other toxic chemicals, the ones that don't cause cancer, is we assume that there's a safe level or threshold until we prove otherwise. And yet when you look at the evidence, whether it's about asbestos and mesothelioma, air pollution and cardiovascular mortality, lead and cardiovascular mortality, benzene and leukemia, none of those exhibit a threshold. In some cases, the risks are steepest proportionately at the lowest measurable levels, and that really raises some tremendous challenges, right? Because how are we going to bring air pollution or lead down to zero? But at the same time, it also provides these tremendous opportunities because we know that they're causing disease. We know what the sources are. If we could only bring about the political will to address them, we could prevent a lot of death, disease, and disability. I mean, about 20% of deaths around the world every year are from air pollution, lead, and other toxic chemicals, and yet the amount of money we invest in them is just paltry compared to what we invest in other things. Which is not to pit one against the other, but it's to say we haven't invested enough in these.Eric Topol (19:14):No, absolutely. I think your point, just to make sure that it's clear, is that even at low levels, this is of course where most of the population exposure would be, and that's why that's so incriminating. Now, one of the things I just want to end up with is that we know that these are tiny, tiny particles of lead, and then the question is how they can synergize and find particulate matter of air pollution in the nanoplastic, microplastic story and binding to forever chemicals, PFAS. How do you process all that? Because it's not just a single hit here, it's also the fact that there's ability to have binding to the other environmental toxins that are not going away.Bruce Lanphear (20:10):That's right. And in a way, when we talk about lead playing this tremendous role in the rise and decline of coronary heart disease, we can't entirely separate it out, for example, from air pollution or cigarette smoke for that matter, nor plastic. So for example, with air pollution, if we look at air pollution over the past century, up until the 1980s, even into the 1990s, it was leaded, right? So you couldn't separate them. If you look at cigarette smoke, cigarette tobacco in the 1940s and 1950s was grown in fields where they used lead arsenic as an insecticide. So smokers even today have blood lead levels that are 20% higher than non-smokers, and people who are not smokers but exposed to secondhand smoke have blood lead levels 20% higher than non-smokers who aren't exposed to secondhand smoke. So in a way, we should try to tease apart these differences, but it's going to be really challenging. In a way we can almost think about them as a spectrum of exposures. Now with plastics, you can really think of plastics as a form of pollution because it's not just one thing. There's all these additives, whether it's the PFAS chemicals or lead, which is used as a stabilizer. And so, all of them really are kind of integrated into each other, which again, maybe there's some opportunity there if we really were ready to tackle.Eric Topol (21:40):And interestingly, just yesterday, it was announced by the current administration that they're stopping all the prior efforts on the forever chemicals that were initiated in the water supply. And I mean, if there's one takeaway from our discussion, it's that we have to get all over this and we're not paying enough attention to our environmental exposures. You've really highlighted spotlighted the lead story. And obviously there are others that are, instead of getting somewhat better, they're actually going in the opposite direction. And they're all tied together that's what is so striking here, and they all do many bad things to our bodies. So I don't know how, I'm obviously really interested in promoting healthy aging, and unless we get on this, we're chasing our tails, right?Bruce Lanphear (22:31):Well, I think that's right, Eric. And I was reading the tips that you'd written about in preparation for your book release, and you focused understandably on what each of us can do, how we can modify our own lifestyles. We almost need six tips about what our government should do in order to make it harder for us to become sick, or to encourage those healthy behaviors that you talked about. That's a big part of it as well. One of the things we're celebrating the hundredth anniversary. This is not really something to celebrate, but we are. The hundredth anniversary of the addition of tetraethyl lead to gasoline. And one of the key things about that addition, there was this debate because when it was being manufactured, 80% of the workers at a plant in New Jersey suffered from severe lead poisoning, and five died, and it was enough that New York City, Philadelphia and New Jersey banned tetraethyl lead.Bruce Lanphear (23:31):Then there was this convening by the US Surgeon General to determine whether it was safe to add tetraethyl lead to gasoline. One scientist, Yandell Henderson said, absolutely not. You're going to create a scourge worse than tuberculosis with slow lead poisoning and hardening of your arteries. Robert Kehoe, who represented the industry said, we know lead is toxic, but until you've shown that it's toxic when added to gasoline, you have no right to prohibit us from using it. So that is now known as the Kehoe rule, and it's relevant not only for lead, but for PFAS, for air pollution, for all these other things, because what it set as a precedent, until you've shown that these chemicals or pollution is toxic when used in commerce, you have no right to prohibit industry from using it. And that's the fix we're in.Eric Topol (24:27):Well, it sounds too much like the tobacco story and so many other things that were missed opportunities to promote public health. Now, is Canada doing any better than us on this stuff?Bruce Lanphear (24:40):In some ways, but not in others. And one of the interesting thing is we don't have standards, we have guidelines. And amazingly, the cities generally try to conform to those guidance levels. With water lead, we're down to five parts per billion. The US is sticking around with ten parts per billion, but it's not even really very, it's not enforced very well. So we are doing better in some ways, not so good in other ways. The European Union, generally speaking, is doing much better than North America.Eric Topol (25:15):Yeah, well, it doesn't look very encouraging at the moment, but hopefully someday we'll get there. Bruce, this has been a really fascinating discussion. I think we all should be thankful to you for dedicating your career to a topic that a lot of us are not up on, and you hopefully are getting us all into a state of awareness. And congratulations on that review, which was masterful and keep up the great work. Thank you.Bruce Lanphear (25:42):Thank you, Eric. I appreciate it.________________________________________________My Recommendations for Preventing Heart Disease (Markedly Truncated from Text and Graphics Provided in SUPER AGERS)Recently the Washington Post asked me for a listicle of 10 ways to prevent heart disease. I generally avoid making such lists but many people have de-subscribed to this newspaper, never subscribed, or missed the post, so here it is with links to citations:Guest column by Eric Topol, MDThe buildup of cholesterol and other substances in the wall of our arteries, known as atherosclerosis, is common. It can lead to severe plaques that narrow the artery and limit blood flow, or to a crack in the artery wall that can trigger blood clot formation, resulting in a heart attack.While we've seen some major advances in treating heart disease, it remains the leading killer in the United States, even though about 80 percent of cases are considered preventable. There are evidence-based steps you can take to stave it off. As a cardiologist, here's what I recommend to my patients.1. Do both aerobic and resistance exerciseThis is considered the single most effective medical intervention to protect against atherosclerosis and promote healthy aging. Physical activity lowers inflammation in the body. Evidence has shown that both aerobic and strength training forms of exercise are important. But only 1 in 4 Americans meet the two activity guidelines from the American Heart Association: aerobic exercise of 150 minutes per week of at least moderate physical activity, such as walking, bicycling on level ground, dancing or gardening, and strength training for at least two sessions per week, which typically translates to 60 minutes weekly.The protective benefit of exercise is seen with even relatively low levels of activity, such as around 2,500 steps per day (via sustained physical activity, not starting and stopping), and generally increases proportionately with more activity. It used to be thought that people who exercise only on the weekend — known as “weekend warriors” — put themselves in danger, but recent data shows the benefits of exercise can be derived from weekend-only workouts, too.2. Follow an anti-inflammatory dietA predominantly plant-based diet — high in fiber and rich in vegetables, fruits and whole grains, as seen with the Mediterranean diet — has considerable evidence from large-scale observational and randomized trials for reducing body-wide inflammation and improving cardiovascular outcomes.Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, also form part of a diet that suppresses inflammation. On the other hand, red meat and ultra-processed foods are pro-inflammatory, and you should limit your consumption. High protein intake of more than 1.4 grams per kilogram of body weight per day — around 95 grams for someone who is 150 pounds — has also been linked to promoting inflammation and to atherosclerosis in experimental models. That is particularly related to animal-based proteins and the role of leucine, an essential amino acid that is obtained only by diet.3. Maintain a healthy weightBeing overweight or obese indicates an excess of white adipose tissue. This kind of tissue can increase the risk of heart disease because it stores fat cells, known as adipocytes, which release substances that contribute to inflammation.In studies, we've seen that glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1) drugs can reduce inflammation with weight loss, and a significant reduction of heart attacks and strokes among high-risk patients treated for obesity. Lean body weight also helps protect against atrial fibrillation, the most common heart rhythm abnormality.4. Know and avoid metabolic syndrome and prediabetesTied into obesity, in part, is the problem of insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome. Two out of three people with obesity have this syndrome, which is defined as having three out of five features: high fasting blood glucose, high fasting triglycerides, high blood pressure, low high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and central adiposity (waist circumference of more than 40 inches in men, 35 inches in women).Metabolic syndrome is also present in a high proportion of people without obesity, about 50 million Americans. Prediabetes often overlaps with it. Prediabetes is defined as a hemoglobin A1c (a measure of how much glucose is stuck to your red blood cells) between 5.7 and 6.4 percent, or a fasting glucose between 100 and 125 milligrams per deciliter.Both metabolic syndrome and prediabetes carry an increased risk of heart disease and can be prevented — and countered — by weight loss, exercise and an optimal diet.As the glucagon-like peptide drug family moves to pills and less expense in the future, these medications may prove helpful for reducing risk in people with metabolic syndrome and prediabetes. For those with Type 2 diabetes, the goal is optimizing glucose management and maximal attention to lifestyle factors.5. Keep your blood pressure in a healthy rangeHypertension is an important risk factor for heart disease and is exceptionally common as we age. The optimal blood pressure is 120/80 mm Hg or lower. But with aging, there is often an elevation of systolic blood pressure to about 130 mm Hg, related to stiffening of arteries. While common, it is still considered elevated.Ideally, everyone should monitor their blood pressure with a home device to make sure they haven't developed hypertension. A mild abnormality of blood pressure will typically improve with lifestyle changes, but more substantial elevations will probably require medications.6. Find out your genetic riskWe now have the means of determining your genetic risk of coronary artery disease with what is known as a polygenic risk score, derived from a gene chip. The term polygenic refers to hundreds of DNA variants in the genome that are linked to risk of heart disease. This is very different from a family history, because we're a product of both our mother's and father's genomes, and the way the DNA variants come together in each of us can vary considerably for combinations of variants.That means you could have high or low risk for heart disease that is different from your familial pattern. People with a high polygenic risk score benefit the most from medications to lower cholesterol, such as statins. A polygenic risk score can be obtained from a number of commercial companies, though it isn't typically covered by insurance.I don't recommend getting a calcium score of your coronary arteries via a computed tomography (CT) scan. This test is overused and often induces overwhelming anxiety in patients with a high calcium score but without symptoms or bona fide risk. If you have symptoms suggestive of coronary artery disease, such as chest discomfort with exercise, then a CT angiogram may be helpful to map the coronary arteries. It is much more informative than a calcium score.7. Check your blood lipidsThe main lipid abnormality that requires attention is low-density cholesterol (LDL), which is often high and for people with increased risk of heart disease should certainly be addressed. While lifestyle improvements can help, significant elevation typically requires medications such as a statin; ezetimibe; bempedoic acid; or injectables such as evolocumab (Repatha), alirocumab (Praluent) or inclisiran (Leqvio). The higher the risk, the more aggressive LDL lowering may be considered.It should be noted that the use of potent statins, such as rosuvastatin or atorvastatin, especially at high doses, is linked to inducing glucose intolerance and risk of Type 2 diabetes. While this is not a common side effect, it requires attention since it is often missed from lack of awareness.A low high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol often responds to weight loss and exercise. We used to think that high HDL was indicative of “good cholesterol,” but more recent evidence suggests that is not the case and it may reflect increased risk when very high.To get a comprehensive assessment of risk via your blood lipids, it's important to get the apolipoprotein B (apoB) test at least once because about 20 percent of people have normal LDL and a high apoB.Like low HDL, high fasting triglycerides may indicate insulin resistance as part of the metabolic syndrome and will often respond to lifestyle factors.The lipoprotein known as Lp(a) should also be assessed at least once because it indicates risk when elevated. The good news is scientists are on the cusp of finally having medications to lower it, with five different drugs in late-stage clinical trials.8. Reduce exposure to environmental pollutantsIn recent years, we've learned a lot about the substantial pro-inflammatory effects of air pollution, microplastics and forever chemicals, all of which have been linked to a higher risk of heart disease. In one study, microplastics or nanoplastics in the artery wall were found in about 60 percent of more than 300 people. Researchers found a vicious inflammatory response around the plastics, and a four- to fivefold risk of heart attacks or strokes during three years of follow-up.While we need policy changes to address these toxic substances in the environment, risk can be reduced by paying attention to air and water quality using filtration or purification devices, less use of plastic water bottles and plastic storage, and, in general, being much more aware and wary of our pervasive use of plastics.9. Don't smoke This point, it should be well known that cigarette smoking is a potent risk factor for coronary artery disease and should be completely avoided.10. Get Good SleepAlthough we tend to connect sleep health with brain and cognitive function, there's evidence that sleep regularity and quality are associated with less risk of heart disease. Regularity means adhering to a routine schedule as much as possible, and its benefit may be due to our body's preference for maintaining its circadian rhythm. Sleep quality — meaning with fewer interruptions — and maximal deep sleep can be tracked with smartwatches, fitness bands, rings or mattress sensors.Sleep apnea, when breathing stops and starts during sleep, is fairly common and often unsuspected. So if you're having trouble sleeping or you snore loudly, talk to your doctor about ruling out the condition. Testing for sleep apnea can involve checking for good oxygen saturation throughout one's sleep. That can be done through a sleep study or at home using rings or smartwatches that include oxygen saturation in their sensors and body movement algorithms that pick up disturbed breathing.Eric Topol, MD, is a cardiologist, professor and executive vice president of Scripps Research in San Diego. He is the author of “Super Agers: An Evidence-Based Approach to Longevity” and the author of Ground Truths on Substack.*********************°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°Thanks to many of you Ground Truths subscribers who helped put SUPER AGERS on the NYT bestseller list for 4 weeks.Here are 2 recent, informative, and fun conversations I had on the topicMichael Shermer, The SkepticRuss Roberts, EconTalk I'm also very appreciative for your reading and subscribing to Ground Truths.If you found this interesting PLEASE share it!That makes the work involved in putting these together especially worthwhile.All content on Ground Truths—its newsletters, analyses, and podcasts, are free, open-access.Paid subscriptions are voluntary and all proceeds from them go to support Scripps Research. They do allow for posting comments and questions, which I do my best to respond to. Please don't hesitate to post comments and give me feedback. Let me know topics that you would like to see covered.Many thanks to those who have contributed—they have greatly helped fund our summer internship programs for the past three years. Just a week ago we just had nearly 50 interns (high school, college and medical students) present posters of the work they did over the summer and it was exhilarating! Some photos below Get full access to Ground Truths at erictopol.substack.com/subscribe

Over the years, I’ve encouraged and prayed for many battling loneliness for various reasons: nursing home residents whose family members don’t visit, the widow who spends her days outside so as not to be alone in her empty house, ministry leaders who don’t have anyone to confide in, and homeless people who feel ignored and alone. Loneliness can strike anyone at any time. Isolating during the pandemic unfortunately, only compounded those feelings of loneliness for many. The US Surgeon General released an advisory in May 2023 alerting the public about the epidemic of loneliness. About half of U.S. adults say they’ve experienced loneliness, which can be as deadly as smoking a dozen cigarettes daily, according to the advisory. When Moses was getting ready to pass the torch to his successor Joshua, he wanted to make sure the Israelites knew they wouldn’t be facing any battles alone as they entered the promised land: “Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you” (Deuteronomy 31:6). He also reminded their new leader, Joshua, that “the Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you” (v. 8). And he concluded with words that can encourage us today. “Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged” (v. 8). When we’re facing loneliness, let’s take comfort in knowing that God will never leave or forsake us.

On 28 September 2024, join the livestream of a conversation between Dr. Vivek Murthy, MD, US Surgeon General, and Sadhguru where they will explore "Loneliness: In is the Only Way Out". Hosted at the Joseph B. Martin Conference Room, Harvard Medical School, Boston, the session will be moderated by Bala Subramaniam, MD, MPH, Director of Sadhguru Center for a Conscious Planet. Set the context for a joyful, exuberant day with a short, powerful message from Sadhguru. Explore a range of subjects with Sadhguru, discover how every aspect of life can be a stepping stone, and learn to make the most of the potential that a human being embodies.  Conscious Planet: ⁠https://www.consciousplanet.org⁠ Sadhguru App (Download): ⁠https://onelink.to/sadhguru__app⁠ Official Sadhguru Website: ⁠https://isha.sadhguru.org⁠ Sadhguru Exclusive: ⁠https://isha.sadhguru.org/in/en/sadhguru-exclusive⁠ Inner Engineering Link: isha.co/ieo-podcast Yogi, mystic and visionary, Sadhguru is a spiritual master with a difference. An arresting blend of profundity and pragmatism, his life and work serves as a reminder that yoga is a contemporary science, vitally relevant to our times. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On 28 September 2024, join the livestream of a conversation between Dr. Vivek Murthy, MD, US Surgeon General, and Sadhguru where they will explore "Loneliness: In is the Only Way Out". Hosted at the Joseph B. Martin Conference Room, Harvard Medical School, Boston, the session will be moderated by Bala Subramaniam, MD, MPH, Director of Sadhguru Center for a Conscious Planet. Set the context for a joyful, exuberant day with a short, powerful message from Sadhguru. Explore a range of subjects with Sadhguru, discover how every aspect of life can be a stepping stone, and learn to make the most of the potential that a human being embodies.  Conscious Planet: ⁠https://www.consciousplanet.org⁠ Sadhguru App (Download): ⁠https://onelink.to/sadhguru__app⁠ Official Sadhguru Website: ⁠https://isha.sadhguru.org⁠ Sadhguru Exclusive: ⁠https://isha.sadhguru.org/in/en/sadhguru-exclusive⁠ Inner Engineering Link: isha.co/ieo-podcast Yogi, mystic and visionary, Sadhguru is a spiritual master with a difference. An arresting blend of profundity and pragmatism, his life and work serves as a reminder that yoga is a contemporary science, vitally relevant to our times. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sheryl Gay Stolberg, NYT, delves into what direction HHS Secretary Kennedy is taking US policy. He operates along two divergent strands – vaccines and the Make American Healthy Again (MAHA) agenda. “Kennedy is by nature a skeptic” and has a “love of nature, and all things holistic.” He has expanded the power of the office, specifically with regard to Covid vaccines, with the CDC leaderless. The newly released MAHA commission report on chronic disease among children, “the sickest generation in American history,” spotlights ultra-processed food—the strongest and most bipartisan argument contained in the report. While the report is restrained on childhood vaccines and pesticides, it is likely to lead to more work on mental health disorders among children.  Sheryl ventured to Texas recently to visit with the founders of Texans for Vaccine Choice, “mad moms in minivans” committed to medical freedom with longstanding links to RFK Jr. For a decade they have scored wins in the Texas legislature. “Defiant” and “entitled,” the Secretary asserts that Americans should not ask any medical advice from him, a deliberate deflection. Dr. Casey Means, nominated to be US Surgeon-General, has already demonstrated she is a strong communicator. It would not be surprising if Kennedy runs in 2028 for the Presidency. 

Loneliness rates have doubled since the 1980s and Vivek Murthy, former US Surgeon General, says loneliness will be the next major epidemic. So if loneliness is being alone and sad … then what's being alone and happy? Solitude. A few years ago, I picked up an incredible book called '​Solitude​' by Michael Harris, bestselling author and winner of the Governor General's Award for his writing. It completely blew me away. Why? Because in our era of endless machine-gun blasts at our brains, I feel strongly that the ability to be alone, and to be alone well, is a muscle that is quickly atrophying. Michael shares why we need to develop the strength and capacity to live and be by ourselves and how exactly we go about cultivating a rich interior life. Michael has gone on to tackle our culture of consumerism in his 2021 book '​All We Want: Building the Life We Cannot Buy​,' and I think after this conversation you'll agree this true “strength of mind” is a crucial aspect of living an intentional life as we face the threat of social and climate collapse. For this classic chapter of 3 Books, I flew to Michael's home in Vancouver, BC. We discuss: How do we cultivate the area between wakefulness and sleep? What does a healthy media diet look like? Why shouldn't you talk about anything serious over texts? And how do parents and children navigate the conversation about coming out of the closet? And, of course, Michael's 3 most formative books... Let's flip the page back to Chapter 29 now...

Dr. Vivek Murthy, physician and former US Surgeon General, joins Ryan and Gregg as part of a special recording with AASA, The School Superintendents Association to discuss the impact of social media on mental health and the importance of human connection.

As it turns out, Alcatraz's renovation started under Biden's fake presidency.  This is not an accident.  School levies fail across the US and people are waking up; and Trump has a new pick for the US Surgeon General position, and its insider and whistleblower Dr. Casey Means.   Book Websites: https://www.moneytreepublishing.com/shop PROMO CODE: “AEFM” for 10% OFF https://armreg.co.uk  PROMO CODE: "americaneducationfm" for 15% off all books and products.  (I receive no kickbacks).

In this episode of the Bench to Bedside podcast Dr. Roy Jensen, vice chancellor and director of The University of Kansas Cancer Center, discusses the critical topic of alcohol consumption and its link to cancer risk with Dr. Lauren Nye, medical oncologist at the cancer center and associate professor of Internal Medicine at the University of Kansas Medical Center. They delve into the recent advisory from the US Surgeon General highlighting the increased cancer risk associated with alcohol consumption, explore how alcohol can promote cancer development through various mechanisms, and offer practical advice for reducing alcohol intake. Dr. Nye underscores the importance of public awareness and the role of healthcare professionals in disseminating this information, while also emphasizing the need for sustainable lifestyle changes. Do you have questions about cancer? Call our Bench to Bedside Hotline at (913) 588-3880 or email us at benchtobedside@kumc.edu, and your comment or question may be shared on an upcoming episode! If you appreciated this episode, please share, rate, subscribe and leave a review. To ensure you get our latest updates, For the latest updates, follow us on the social media channel of your choice by searching for KU Cancer Center. Links from this Episode: Read the US Surgeon General's Advisory “Alcohol and Cancer Risk” Read “Understanding Breast Cancer Prevention” by Dr. Lauren Nye on the KU Cancer Center blog Learn about cancer prevention and risk reduction on the KU Cancer Center website

Averted lung cancer deaths due to reductions in cigarette smoking in the United States, 1970–2022  Cancer Smoking prevalence peaked in the 50s and 60s but has declined following the US Surgeon General's report in 1964 on its health risk. As 85% of lung cancer is attributable to smoking, the authors evaluated this impact by assessing lung cancer deaths averted, and person-years of life (PYL) gained between 1970 and 2022 using cancer mortality data from the CDC. The authors estimated 3,856,240 lung cancer deaths were averted and 76,275,550 PYL were gained during the study period (average of 19.8 PYL gained per death averted). The deaths averted were higher in men (2,246,610), but average PYL gained per death averted was higher in women (22.4 years). Lung cancer deaths averted accounted for 51.4% of the estimated decrease in overall cancer deaths.  The findings highlight the importance of tobacco controls and interventions and need for ongoing efforts to decrease tobacco use.    Read this issue of the ASAM Weekly Subscribe to the ASAM Weekly Visit ASAM

In his 2023 report "Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation", the US Surgeon General at the time, Dr. Vivek Murthy, declared loneliness and social isolation a public health epidemic.Aside from feelings of ennui and lacking support structure, loneliness can trigger or increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, dementia, stroke, depression, anxiety, and even premature death!So, while he doesn't quite come out and say it, and he might not have been thinking exactly along those terms when I spoke with him, Steve Fales might have had a brush with death.Steve grew up in a single-parent home. Although he had a brother, his brother was 11 years older and serving in Vietnam while Steve and his mom were living in what he repeatedly describes as “a dead end street in a quiet town with lots of kids and dogs around and playing all the time and other stuff kids do”.He started out working on the floor in a grocery store before he applied for a job in their advertising department – and got it. His experience eventually drove him to start his own advertising agency, where he carved out a niche in the air conditioning industry. Things were going fine… until his growing firm was selected as a provider of choice for a major manufacturing firm.But Fine is a 4-Letter Word… and what some might call Steve's ship coming in gave him panic attacks. For months he started his days by wretching and dry-heaving into the toilet. Outwardly, he was the envy of his peers and the idol of his friends… but he carried this dark secret. Does this sound familiar, by the way?Join Steve and me on a deep dive into the impacts of loneliness on our society. There's a reason it's an epidemic. With surveys showing one in 4 people reporting they eat alone every day, and everybody wandering down the sidewalk with their eyes on their phone… we're surrounded by people yet frighteningly disconnected.Not to reveal the takeaways before you even hear the episode, but the solution to your loneliness and disconnection comes not from being around other people, as much as it comes from within you. Steve lays it all out for you. Steve's hype song is "I Know You're Out There Somewhere" by The Moody Blues.Resources:Steve Fales' website: https://www.stevefales.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenfales/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/steve.fales.18 Claim your copy of Steve Fales' book, “Loving Your Neighbor: A Practical Guide” (plus the group discussion and journal prompts), at https://www.stevefales.com/books/loving-your-neighbor/Invitation from Lori: This episode is sponsored by Zen Rabbit. Smart business leaders know trust is the foundation of every great workplace. And in today's hybrid and fast-moving work culture, trust isn't built in quarterly town halls or the occasional Slack message. It's built through consistent, clear, and HUMAN communication. Companies and leaders TALK about the importance of connection and community. And it's easy to believe your organization is doing a great job of maintaining an awesome corporate culture. Because you've got annual all-hands and open door policies, and “fun" team-building events.But let's be real. Leaders who are serious about building real trust are finding better ways to strengthen culture, create connection,...

This has been an ongoing health topic but with the US Surgeon General's latest advisory update- an even more prevalent one. Should you cut out alcohol use for optimal health (and to reduce risk)? Let's dive in... As always, please consult a doctor and do not take anything discussed on this podcast as medical advice :)I referenced this podcast episode:https://www.melrobbins.com/podcasts/episode-155I referenced these articles:https://utswmed.org/medblog/no-alcohol-health-benefits/https://www.sleepfoundation.org/nutrition/alcohol-and-sleephttps://www.columbiadoctors.org/news/how-much-too-much-drinkhttps://americanaddictioncenters.org/alcohol/risks-effects-dangers/depressionhttps://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-022-28735-5https://www.hhs.gov/surgeongeneral/reports-and-publications/alcohol-cancer/index.htmlMove Better This MARCH! Get your next four weeks of workouts right here: https://brittany-pearson-0916.mykajabi.com/offers/rcbqBbUS/checkout**FREEBIE Alert: 5 High Protein Breakfast Ideas (with recipes & shopping list): https://mailchi.mp/a97e9b12a618/highproteinbreakfastsBuild a powerhouse metabolism and get lean in just 20 minutes a day! Learn how right here:https://brittany-pearson-0916.mykajabi.com/joinus-c314ce99-4585-4cae-b251-ccae6f397184Try my FREE 3 Day Pregnancy Workout Challenge here:https://mailchi.mp/3544a2978243/threedaypregnancyprogramGet the FREE GUIDE to Exercising Postpartum!https://mailchi.mp/4e93de16eeaf/q047rmh7veMy pregnancy and postpartum programs are ALWAYS available right here:https://www.healthycatholicmoms.com/services/Get your FREE 3 Steps to Fat Loss Checklist instantly here: https://mailchi.mp/83c78e2a2d39/5fscogioxyShop Healthy Catholic Moms merch here! Mugs, shirts, and more...https://www.healthycatholicmoms.com/shop/Join my email list here: https://www.healthycatholicmoms.com/____________________________________________________________________________________Schedule a 30 minute coaching call with me here:https://www.healthycatholicmoms.com/services/____________________________________________________________________________For recipes, workouts, and tips- follow me on:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthycatholicmoms/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/healthycatholicmomsEmail: brittany@healthycatholicmoms.com

Our resident scientist, Gill Tietz of SoberPowered, is back on the pod to help us understand the recent US Surgeon General's report on the link between cancer and alcohol consumption. This link is something that we in the sobriety space have known for a long time, but it is the first time that the government has publicly announced the connection. We'll talk about how this report might change people's drinking habits, how alcohol and cancer are related, and even how your body heals as your years of sobriety progress. Plus, Gill and I will share how our five year sober-versaries have felt for each of us! To hear more from Gill, check out The SoberPowered Podcast!  Check out Gill's past episodes on The Sober Mom Life: An Alcohol Reality Check Your Dry January Dream TeamThe Sober October RoundtableIt's Not You, it's the AlcoholAre you looking for community in sobriety? Join us in the The Sober Mom Life Cafe! For $40/month, you'll get access to 12 weekly peer support meetings, the exclusive Cafe social feed, our monthly book club and happy hour, the chance to share your story on The Real Sober Moms, and even a monthly Bravo chat! For a limited time, get one week free! We also have The Sober Mom Life Community for just $5.95/month - In the Community, you'll receive access to the exclusive Community social feed, the exclusive community chat, our monthly book club, and one free weekly meeting. Click here to follow The Sober Mom Life on Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Our resident scientist, Gill Tietz of SoberPowered, is back on the pod to help us understand the recent US Surgeon General's report on the link between cancer and alcohol consumption. This link is something that we in the sobriety space have known for a long time, but it is the first time that the government has publicly announced the connection.  We'll talk about how this report might change people's drinking habits, how alcohol and cancer are related, and even how your body heals as your years of sobriety progress.  Plus, Gill and I will share how our five year sober-versaries have felt for each of us!  To hear more from Gill, check out The SoberPowered Podcast!   Check out Gill's past episodes on The Sober Mom Life:  An Alcohol Reality Check  Your Dry January Dream Team The Sober October Roundtable It's Not You, it's the Alcohol Are you looking for community in sobriety? Join us in the The Sober Mom Life Cafe!  For $40/month, you'll get access to 12 weekly peer support meetings, the exclusive Cafe social feed, our monthly book club and happy hour, the chance to share your story on The Real Sober Moms, and even a monthly Bravo chat! For a limited time, get one week free!  We also have The Sober Mom Life Community for just $5.95/month - In the Community, you'll receive access to the exclusive Community social feed, the exclusive community chat, our monthly book club, and one free weekly meeting.  Click here to follow The Sober Mom Life on Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Credits: 0.25 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™   CME/CE Information and Claim Credit: https://www.pri-med.com/online-education/podcast/frankly-speaking-cme-420 Overview: Listen in as we discuss the US Surgeon General's new advisory on the impact of alcohol on cancer incidence and mortality. We review the latest data, explore alcohol's role in carcinogenesis, and provide evidence-based guidance to help you counsel patients on safer consumption and cancer prevention. Episode resource links: U.S. Surgeon General Issues New Advisory on Link Between Alcohol and Cancer Risk | HHS.gov Guest: Jillian Joseph, MPAS, PA-C Music Credit: Matthew Bugos Thoughts? Suggestions? Email us at FranklySpeaking@pri-med.com   

Credits: 0.25 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™   CME/CE Information and Claim Credit: https://www.pri-med.com/online-education/podcast/frankly-speaking-cme-420 Overview: Listen in as we discuss the US Surgeon General's new advisory on the impact of alcohol on cancer incidence and mortality. We review the latest data, explore alcohol's role in carcinogenesis, and provide evidence-based guidance to help you counsel patients on safer consumption and cancer prevention. Episode resource links: U.S. Surgeon General Issues New Advisory on Link Between Alcohol and Cancer Risk | HHS.gov Guest: Jillian Joseph, MPAS, PA-C Music Credit: Matthew Bugos Thoughts? Suggestions? Email us at FranklySpeaking@pri-med.com   

In this episode, Cameron and Anna turn to Romans 8: 12-17 to determine how the gospel helps parents let go of fear and control. When the US Surgeon General feels compelled to release a mental health report for parents, anxiety and stress are at an all-time high. How does the indwelling Holy Spirit free parents from living "according to the flesh"?Resources:Parents Under Pressure: The U.S. Surgeon General Advisory on the Mental Health and Well-Being of ParentsThe Parents Aren't All Right podcastRomans 8:12-17Parenting and the Idol of Control by Christina Fox Follow us on Instagram @rootedministry!

Send us a textHave I ever told you how awesome you are? It's "Carmona Part two"-eve and the show currently sits at 60,343 downloads!!!! The number seems unreal, but it makes sense when you consider the line up of phenomenal guests...Speaking of phenomenal guests... Richard Carmona is back!If you tuned in last week, we barely scratched the surface of a truly extraordinary career! I was honestly surprised that the run time is barely over two hours because the total time of our visit was about 5 hours!!!! Probably could've kept going too!  Such a great, authentic person.I'm honored, humbled and so glad he wanted to come back so quickly to meet up and get the rest of this recorded. We could probably fill 10 or more episodes to be honest!Buckle up, enjoy the ride and please leave me a response either on Buzzsprout, Spotify or the social media links below. Come see me on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/choir.practice.94 or on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/cp_sfaf/

US Surgeon General calls for cancer warning labels on Alcohol! We also touch on a very important subject for this trying to achieve their Ultimate weight loss goal...don't drink alcohol as it slows your the fat burning process in your body along with preventing lean muscle growth. Titan Medical Center CEO/Owner John Tsikouris and Titan Athlete, Big Dru answer questions regarding Fitness, Health and Lifestyle from our live stream audience.

Businesses should do well with reduced regulations going forward Reducing regulations saves companies both time and money and time is always money. Starting in 2025, it is expected that for every new regulation that goes on the books, 10 regulations must be eliminated. I was unaware of what is known as the congressional review where a new President along with Congress can undo certain rules that the previous administration put on the books in the last few months. At this time, we're not sure which ones will be eligible for elimination, but you will likely see some rules that perhaps made no sense to many people could be reversed in 2025. There could be a fight brewing between California and the federal government over some of these changes in regulations and California could lose their waiver and authority to ban the sale of new gasoline powered cars by 2035. The federal government wants control back over the auto industry, and does not want to allow states to come up with separate rules. That could ease pressure on both the auto companies and consumers as well. One that I'm not sure on is eliminating bank watchdogs like the FDIC. I like the idea of pulling back on the regulations, but maybe this is one that should be controlled not eliminated? Be prepared in 2025 for many changes in business, I believe most will be helpful.    History has proven in the recent past that tariffs can cause problems in the economy and the markets as well. We have talked for the past month or so that we have been lightening up on our investments, which does not mean we went to 100% cash but a more reasonable level of around 20% in cash and 80% invested. A big reason for this is I believe currently the markets are incorrectly ignoring what the potential tariffs will do in the short term. It was only about six years ago when we had tariffs and that caused disruption in supply chains and rising manufacturing costs along with declining profits for some corporations. Our trading partners did not simply give in to the demands. Looking at China in particular, in September 2019, an additional $113 billion of tariffs were imposed on top of roughly $50 billion of tariffs that were already in effect. Each time the tariffs were raised, there was retaliation from China. This began to cause wild swings in the stock and bond markets. It is important as well for investors to understand when tariffs were imposed in 2018, the economy was doing well. That was because of recent tax cuts that reduced the corporate income tax from 35% down to 21%, which was a 40% decline. Now in 2025 there are no big tax cuts that the economy and businesses are benefitting from, which could hurt corporate profits in the short term. There is a potential tax relief bill that must go through Congress, but that would not be felt by anyone until the summer or late fall of this year. No one knows for certain how long it takes tariffs to benefit the economy because last time the world and trade fell apart as Covid changed everything. So for now, we will just have to wait and see how long it will take before the United States sees a benefit to tariffs, which I do believe long-term they are a good thing. With some potential short-term headwinds from these trade conversations, I think it's important to not be overly aggressive with your portfolio and to make sure you're holding strong businesses with low valuations that do not rely heavily on overseas trade.   Liquor sales are declining and the bourbon boom seems to have passed It used to be investing in alcohol companies like Brown-Forman, who is famous for Jack Daniels, and other alcohol companies was a relatively safe investment over the long-term. But it appears that peoples liquor cabinets are still full from the Covid years when they over bought many types of booze for drinking at home and they still have a good amount of that alcohol left. No help to the industry is the anti- obesity drugs, the legal use of cannabis and some people switching to non-alcoholic drinks. The recent warning from the US Surgeon General recommending alcohol bottles should have a warning label on them about cancer could also hurt sales temporarily. We can't forget about the tariffs that are coming as this will likely be another heavy weight on alcohol and bourbon sales and profits. While writing about the decline in bourbon sales, I thought I would go to my bar to see if I had any bourbon to try. I took a shot of it and it burned all the way down. I personally don't know why Bourbon is so popular in the first place. With that said I guess maybe others are agreeing with me, US whiskey sales declined 1.2% in 2023, which was the first decline in 21 years. In the first nine months of 2024 there was additional drop of 4%. Your bigger distillers have the balance sheets to whether the storm, but your smaller craft distillery companies are beginning to close. I do believe this will probably change course maybe not in 2025, but perhaps come 2026 more distillers could quit the business, which will leave room for the big companies to pick up that slack and see their sales and profits increase.   What Really Matters when Getting a Mortgage When getting a mortgage, everyone's top priority is to get the best rate. However, it is equally as important to understand what it took to get that rate.  When you get a mortgage, there are origination costs called points that you can buy to reduce your mortgage rate.  In other words, you can buy down that rate for a cost, and this typically doesn't get analyzed correctly.  Let's consider an example using current market rates. For a well-qualified buyer, the par rate is about 6.75%, meaning there are no added point costs.  If the borrower wanted, they could pay a point, which costs 1% of the mortgage balance, in exchange for a lower rate of 6.375%.  On a $600k loan, this point would cost $6,000.  The question is, how long would it take for the interest savings from the lower rate to recoup the additional $6,000 point cost?  In this example assuming a 30-year mortgage, it would take almost 3 years.  That may not seem like a long time, but in the current interest rate environment, most experts agree that mortgage rates will be coming down at least slightly, especially within 3 years.  This means if you forgo paying the point and accept the higher rate and higher accompanying monthly payment, as long as you are able to refinancing into a lower rate within 3 years, you will come out ahead.  On the contrary by paying a point, you believe that right now mortgage rates are at their lowest point for the next 3 years, which is a strong stance to take.  I believe there will be opportunities to refinance into lower rates, meaning the overall cheapest way to structure a mortgage now is with a higher interest rate.  You can even take this a step further by accepting a rate above the par rate in exchange for credits from the lender that can be used to pay closing costs and some of the mortgage interest.  In our $600k mortgage example, taking a rate of 7.125% would come with approximately $7,500 of credits.  A rate of 7.125% might look expensive, but as long as you can refinance within 3 years, that rate option gives you the lowest overall cost of borrowing.   Companies Discussed: Costco Wholesale Corporation (COST), Oracle Corporation (ORCL), The Walt Disney Company (DIS) & General Dynamics Corporation (GD)

Back in 2025! The US Surgeon General released an announcement that consumption of alcohol can lead to cancer and recommends a potential warning statement be put on labels. The guys discuss if this is needed and if it would actually hurt sales. Take a break from alcohol with Athletic Brewing. Follow United We Drink on their social media channels. BlueSky Instagram Facebook Threads

In recent years, it has become evident that loneliness is one of the most pressing public health challenges of our time — so much so that the US Surgeon General has labeled it an epidemic with far reaching consequences. The pain of isolation doesn't merely gnaw at our sense of belonging: it undermines our physical wellbeing, erodes our mental health, and places an invisible strain on communities. In this climate of ever widening personal and cultural divides, the collective call for deeper human bonds feels both urgent and universal. Our guest on this episode is Julia Hotz, a journalist and passionate advocate for social prescribing, the practice of directing people to community activities and social support networks as part of their health care. She is the author of the book The Connection Cure: The Prescriptive Power of Movement, Nature, Art, Service and Belonging (2024), in which she argues that whether it's group classes, volunteer opportunities, or simply forging new friendships, true well-being is as much about our social fabric as it is about physical health. Over the course of our conversation, we discuss the psychology of isolation and loneliness, the tangible health effects of loneliness, the historical societal forces that drive humans increasingly apart, the role of social media in connecting and separating us, and how patients and physicians alike can take proactive and creative steps in making human connection an integral part of living well.In this episode, you'll hear about: 2:50 - What social prescribing is and how it became Hotz' focus as a journalist5:32 - How loneliness became a crisis in the era of social media 18:46 - The ways in which social prescribing can change the conversation between doctors and patients28:24 - The impact that our relationships and environments have on our physiological wellbeing 38:29 - How doctors and health care systems can leverage the power of social prescribing 45:00 - How social prescribing is beginning to find its place in the American healthcare system 56:03 - How social prescribing can bring a stronger sense of meaning into the lives of both patients and doctors To learn more about how you can get involved in the social prescribing movement, Julia recommends visiting Social Prescribing USA and socialprescribing.co. Visit our website www.TheDoctorsArt.com where you can find transcripts of all episodes.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review our show, available for free on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. If you know of a doctor, patient, or anyone working in health care who would love to explore meaning in medicine with us on the show, feel free to leave a suggestion in the comments or send an email to info@thedoctorsart.com.Copyright The Doctor's Art Podcast 2024

Send us a textThe title for this episode could go on forever! Dr. Richard Camona was certainly a jack of all trades, but at the highest levels. It was my honor to be able to sit down with him and not only chat about his career but how ours intersected in a very small way. I am in awe of his path to special forces, medicine and law enforcement. his life definitely needs to be preserved for generations. Please give him a warm welcome and be sure to come back because he had to come back for another episode to cover the extraordinary career and life he had...Come see me on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/choir.practice.94 or on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/cp_sfaf/

As he prepares to leave office, U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy talks about the recent report highlighting the cancer risk of even moderate alcohol consumption, other public health issues, and his hopes for the next administration's public health policies. 

The US Surgeon General has been raising the alarm about the health risks of alcohol, as well as what he calls the 'loneliness epidemic.' On Today's Show:U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy talks about the recent report highlighting the cancer risk of even moderate alcohol consumption, and other public health issues as he prepares to leave his post at the end of the Biden administration.

Jonathan Ellsworth talks about this very big topic with someone who is in quite a unique position to have this conversation with: Eli Brown, a 26-year-old sommelier who is also certified in mixology and distilled spirits, he has been named a Top 100 Bartender in the U.S., and he is currently working on a project involving N/A and low ABV beer and spirits and wine.Jonathan Ellsworth and Eli Brown delve into the changing landscape of alcohol consumption among younger generations; the trends — and hurdles — of non-alcoholic (NA) and low ABV cocktails; the complexities of wine and the practices of the wine industry that may be acting as a deterrence; the implications of the US Surgeon General's recommendations on alcohol consumption; and predictions for future trends in the craft beverage industry.RELATED LINKS:Blister Craft CollectiveTOPICS & TIMES:Eli's Background & Credentials (1:34)The Current State of Alcohol (10:10)US Surgeon General's Warning (40:16)Blister Craft collective (53:49)White Wines (1:01:55)Predictions: Which Spirits Will Rise & Fall? (1:04:48) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Purchase What Will You Teach Me here We are spending more face to face time with devices than people--and it's hurting us and our kids. There is a reason mental health has plummeted in the past decade. We are experiencing a new type of loneliness and isolation because of the hours we are spending looking at screens. Cindi McMenamin, author of The New Loneliness will share how we can reset and regain the strength that comes from real friendships. It's a message both for us as parents and for our kids. Order Arlene's new book, Making Marriage Easier: How to Love (and Like) Your Spouse for Life https://makingmarriageeasier.com/ On today's episode, we'll talk about: 2:40 US Surgeon General's alert on loneliness 4:30 When it's just easier to stay home instead of going out 6:10 Zoom meetings and communication 8:45 Going deeper with our friendships starts with… 12:00 Mom, you don't have any friends anymore 15:25 When AI becomes a friend 20:00 Consider this about AI and your kids 21:30 Taking an assessment: Are you lonely? 24:00 When you have a misunderstanding with a friend that hurts 27:10 When you miss your kids during the empty nest Cindi McMenamin is an award winning writer and speaker. She's ministered to women for nearly 40 years. Her books include 10 Secrets to Becoming a Worry-Free Mom, Drama Free, and 12 Ways to Experience More with your Husband. Today we're talking about her latest book, The New Loneliness: Nurturing meaningful connections when you feel isolated Learn more about Cindi McMenamin and her book, The New Loneliness https://strengthforthesoul.com/ Order Arlene's new book, Making Marriage Easier: How to Love (and Like) Your Spouse for Life https://makingmarriageeasier.com/ Have a question for Arlene to address on the podcast? Please email Arlene your questions and the topics you want covered on the show! speaking@arlenepellicane.com Save the date: Arlene's next Parents Rising Conference in San Diego, September 6, 2025

Join hosts Adam Flaherty and Marc Checket in this special compilation episode as they highlight the most eye-opening moments of 2024, sharing insightful and unexpected clips from a year of remarkable guest interviews. Clips include:↳ Actor George Basil (HBO's Crashing, Barbie) on how single parenthood awards him a unique relationship with his teenage daughter.↳ Timothy Gant, Jr. AKA Teddy The Doula on what it means to be a “full spectrum” doula, and the benefits of being a male in a predominately female-led field.↳ Margaret Ables of the podcast What Fresh Hell – Laughing in the Face of Motherhood, on how society can better support and promote equitable parenting.↳ Comedian Pete Holmes on his young daughter discovering his body of work as she grows up.↳ And Dr. Vivek Murthy, US Surgeon General, on the epidemic of stress and loneliness in parents, and his 2024 advisory “Parents Under Pressure.”THANK YOU, dads and moms, for

"Peaceful Parents" with David Romanelli Scarlett has partnered with David Romanelli to create a program called "Peaceful Parents" aimed at bringing more peace into the lives of parents. The program includes advice from various experts in short, digestible segments over 21 days. The program was inspired by the US Surgeon General's advisory on the mental health and well-being of parents, which revealed that 33% of parents are experiencing high levels of stress and 48% feel overwhelmed most days. The program is designed to help parents move beyond stress and fear and choose love. For more information: https://peacefulparents.life/ Learn more About Scarlett here: https://chooselovemovement.org/

Vote for Native Land Pod at the NAACP Image Awards: vote.naacpimageawards.net/#Cat901 This week hosts Tiffany Cross, Angela Rye, and Andrew Gillum discuss Meta’s turn towards “free speech.” Mark Zuckerberg has decided to end Facebook’s fact-checking program. What are the real motives behind this pivot–more at play than just kissing Trump’s booty?? Monique Williams was reelected as Florida’s Attorney General despite Governor DeSantis removing her from office in 2023 over political differences. Now DeSantis is cooking up yet another ploy to subvert the will of the voters and remove Williams from office again. Americans are isolating at record levels. It’s so bad that the US Surgeon General has issued an official report on “the epidemic of loneliness and isolation.” What’s behind this epidemic and what can we do to re-connect? AND one of you asked: Where is the Black intelligentsia these days and what role do they have to play in our politics? If you’d like to submit a question, check out our tutorial video: www.instagram.com/reel/C5j_oBXLIg0/ We are 663 days away from the midterm elections. Welcome home y’all! —--------- We want to hear from you! Send us a video @nativelandpod and we may feature you on the podcast. Instagram X/Twitter Facebook NativeLandPod.com Watch full episodes of Native Land Pod here on YouTube. Native Land Pod is brought to you by Reasoned Choice Media. Thank you to the Native Land Pod team: Angela Rye as host, executive producer and cofounder of Reasoned Choice Media; Tiffany Cross as host and producer, Andrew Gillum as host and producer, and Lauren Hansen as executive producer; Loren Mychael is our research producer, and Nikolas Harter is our editor and producer. Special thanks to Chris Morrow and Lenard McKelvey, co-founders of Reasoned Choice Media. Theme music created by Daniel Laurent. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Happy New Year, and welcome to #Millennial, the home of pretend adulting and real talk! Welp, the US Surgeon General really put a damper on anyone not participating in dry January by saying alcoholic beverages should come with health warnings about increased cause of cancer. Will it stop us? (Nah.) At the start of the new year, we like to revisit our predictions from 2024 and... sorry for the bummer, but we didn't get a single prediction right. Our guest hosts from last year's finale did though! But you know we're also coming in hot with our 2025 predictions, so come along with us to hear our (probably wrong) takes! Hint hint: we have some Trump-related predictions (sorry we have to do this again y'all): he won't be able to stop Putin's war in Ukraine, TikTok will NOT be banned, the big Elon/Trump breakup we're all anticipating will not happen in 2025, and the petty President will fly the US flag at full mast during his inauguration because his special little feelings matter more than honoring former President Jimmy Carter. Don't worry, we have non-Trump predictions too: bitcoin will double its value again in 2025, Chappell Roan will win big at the Grammys, and of course, Andrew's yearly death prediction. Need a little motivation to start the year our right? We share our goals to start the year, and because we are so demure, we're not biting off more than we can chew. You know where to look for the best recommendations! Refresh and GREEN your space (Andrew), upgrade to a smart electric kettle (Pam), and the game 'Cult of Lamb' (Laura). And in this week's installment of After Dark: What's in and what's out for us in 2025? In addition to giving some good ideas for your own ins and outs lists, prepare to learn some new vocabulary! What's in: disassociating from the news, fart walks, habit tracking, and movie musicals to name a few. What's out? Hope scrolling (sorry), energy vampires (???), and describing something as a 'vibe.' Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I'm kicking off the new season/year with a conversation that needs our attention. The US Surgeon General has announced that America is in a Lonely epidemic. There's a lot to unfold here; let's take an introspective and communal look at how we got here and what we can do to fix it. Visit lashannamoore.com to sign up for my newsletter and to subscribe to my YT channel, LaShannaMooreTV. Welcome to a new season!

Or has it? Recent remarks from the US Surgeon General have left the alcohol industry shaking in their boots (even though the WHO made similar statements two years ago). Are their flaws in their argument or is it time to jump on the wagon?

Dr. Lin talked about the US Surgeon General's advisory on the risks of cancer from drinking alcohol.

In this episode of The Alcohol Minimalist Podcast, we're diving deep into the recent advisory issued by the US Surgeon General regarding alcohol and its link to cancer risk. Molly explores the science behind the headlines, unpacking the data and presenting a balanced view to help you make informed decisions about your drinking habits.We cover:A breakdown of the Surgeon General's advisory on alcohol and cancer, including the seven types of cancer linked to alcohol consumption.Understanding absolute risk vs. relative risk when evaluating cancer risk associated with alcohol.The carcinogenic effects of ethanol and how alcohol influences our DNA, inflammation, and hormone levels.How taking part in “Dry January” offers more than just a break from alcohol—it's a chance to evaluate your habits and redefine your relationship with drinking.Why focusing on the why behind your drinking habits can lead to sustainable change.Plus, Molly shares practical tips for navigating your journey as an Alcohol Minimalist, offering strategies to reduce drinking without judgment.Resources Mentioned in This Episode:[Surgeon General's Advisory on Alcohol and Cancer Risk (PDF)][Sunnyside App] – Molly's top pick for tracking your drinking and creating sustainable change.Podcast Episode on Global RiskKey Takeaways:Even small amounts of alcohol can increase the risk for specific cancers, including breast cancer for women and esophageal cancer for everyone.The importance of personalizing your approach to Dry January—whether fully alcohol-free or simply adding more alcohol-free days.How shifting from shame-based narratives about alcohol to informed, science-forward thinking empowers you to take control of your habits.New to the podcast? Download the Podcast Listening Guide.Want to schedule a call to talk about how I work with people?  Click here for a FREE call. Join my private FB group Alcohol Minimalists here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/changeyouralcoholhabitHas this podcast helped you? Please leave a review.Follow me on Facebook & Instagram: @AlcoholMinimalist Low risk drinking guidelines from the NIAAA:Healthy men under 65:No more than 4 drinks in one day and no more than 14 drinks per week.Healthy women (all ages) and healthy men 65 and older:No more than 3 drinks in one day and no more than 7 drinks per week.One drink is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor. So remember that a mixed drink or full glass of wine are probably more than one drink.Abstinence from alcoholAbstinence from alcohol is the best choice for people who take medication(s) that interact with alcohol, have health conditions that could be exacerbated by alcohol (e.g. liver disease), are pregnant or may become pregnant or have had a problem with alcohol or another substance in the past.Benefits of “low-risk” drinkingFollowing these guidelines reduces the risk of health problems such as cancer, liver disease, reduced immunity, ulcers, sleep problems, complications of existing conditions, and more. It also reduces the risk of depression, social problems, and difficulties at school or work. ★ Support this podcast ★

Protest votes before Mike Johnson is re-elected as House speaker. Message sent today by a handful of Republicans, but was it received? And in New Orleans, barriers on Bourbon Street that were not there before, might they been able to stop the terrorist attack that killed 14 innocent people? Plus, the links between alcohol and cancer, risks apparently so urgent the US Surgeon General today, calling for warning labels - will those happen?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

German officials have told the BBC that a decision by the new Islamist authorities in Syria to erase evolution from the school curriculum is troubling - a concern that is echoed by many Syrians. We hear from Germany's Special Coordinator for Syria and from Syrian writer Rima Flihan. Also on the programme: The US Surgeon General has called for risk warnings on alcoholic beverages, similar to the labels on cigarettes, following new research that links the drinks to seven types of cancer; and why a New York judge is insisting on sentencing US president-elect Donald Trump days before his inauguration.(Photo: Head of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and Syria's de facto leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, meets with German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot and Syria's newly appointed Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shibani, in Damascus, Syria January 3, 2025. Credit: Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham/Handout via REUTERS)

House Speaker Mike Johnson won a dramatic vote to keep the gavel. Security barriers are at the center of an investigation into the suspected terror attack in New Orleans. A major winter storm will bring snow, ice and rain to millions in the US this weekend. President Joe Biden blocked Japan's Nippon Steel from acquiring US Steel. Plus, the US Surgeon General is sounding the alarm about the link between alcohol and cancer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week Sam updates you on new forecasts from IWSR on the growth of no- and low-alcohol (NOLO) beverages, the continued decline in champagne sales, Cava's commitment to organic viticulture, the release of the Porto Protocol's Unpacking Wine guide, and the US Surgeon General's new advisory on alcohol. You can read the transcript of this newscast at https://www.jancisrobinson.com/articles/us-warnings-alcohol-growing-nolo-sales-cavas-commitment-organics-champagne-slump.

Find out more about Thom's Enlightened Parenting Course here: https://thomknoles.com/parentingThere are more humans on the planet today than ever before, and we have more ways of connecting with each other than ever before, yet loneliness has reached epidemic proportions.The World Health Organization (WHO) launched an international commission on the problem last year, reporting that the health risks from loneliness are as bad as smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day and are even greater than those associated with obesity and physical inactivity.The US Surgeon-General released a report on Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation, reporting that even in the years prior to Covid lockdowns, about one-in-two adults in America reported experiencing loneliness. And Japan, one of the most densely populated countries in the world, even has a minister in charge of measures for loneliness and isolation.Thom outlines some solutions to loneliness in this podcast episode, reminding us that connectivity and connection are very different things, and that, ultimately, it's our job to make ourselves socially relevant.  Thom also outlines an advantage that Vedic meditators have, making it possible to be alone while still enjoying rich company. Episode Highlights[00:45] Pheromone Clouds[02:50] Adaptive Mechanisms[05:36] Enriching Our Presence Through Vedic Meditation[07:03] Stepping Out of the Illusion of Loneliness[08:56] Social Chocolate[11:36] Sociological Exercise[13:16] Social Relevance[14:28] Human Interaction - Surgeon General RecommendedUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

Christians have the best answer to the epidemic of loneliness in our culture. As articulated by the US Surgeon General, being disconnected has life-damaging consequences. But too many in the body of Christ are neither experiencing nor offering the kind of friendship Christians are uniquely equipped to provide. Dr. Carol's guest on this episode is author and podcaster Rebecca McLaughlin who has a PhD in literature from Cambridge University and a theology degree from Oak Hill Theological College in London. She contends that friendship love is not optional for followers of Jesus. She explains why this love is, in New Testament terms, more critical than marriage or romantic love. And she talks about what this can practically look like for you. Connect with Rebecca McLaughlin on her website, X (Twitter), or Instagram    Find Rebecca's book No Greater Love: A Biblical Vision for Friendship          Check out Dr. Carol's article How to Find Your People When You Need Help Dr. Carol loves to hear from you. You can send a confidential message here. 

In the recent Advisory, Parents Under Pressure, the US Surgeon General noted that parents are currently more stressed, burned out, and lonely than ever before. The alarming statistics are not all that different than his Advisories on the Youth Mental Health and Loneliness Epidemics that have been escalating since the late 1970s.In this episode of Shrinking it Down, Gene and Khadijah discuss this new advisory and what parents can do to combat these increased feelings of stress and loneliness.Media ListParents Under Pressure (U.S. Surgeon General Advisory)Protecting Youth Mental Health (U.S. Surgeon General Advisory)Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation (U.S. Surgeon General Advisory)Self-Care for Parents (MGH Clay Center)NAMI | National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)Myths About the 12-Step Program (MGH Clay Center)Parental Stress: Practical Tips in Response to the Surgeon General (Clay Center) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this conversation, Tara, Emily Boucher, and Amy Mockbee, early childhood experts and co-founders of Work and Play, reflect on the recent advisory from the US Surgeon General regarding the stressors faced by parents today, emphasizing the need for connection and understanding among parents. The discussion also delves into historical perspectives on parenting, comparing past practices with contemporary approaches, and highlighting the intentionality that modern parents bring to their roles. They discuss the complexities of modern parenting, emphasizing the importance of emotional connection, community support, and self-care. They explore how parents can better understand their children's feelings, the significance of reflecting on their own upbringing, and the value of open communication among parents. The discussion also highlights the role of workshops and community gatherings in empowering parents and fostering connections. Links: https://www.workandplayecc.com/ https://www.instagram.com/workandplayecc/

Today's discussion was with the US Surgeon General, Vivek Murthy, focusing on the critical topic of Mental Health. Our conversation delves into key aspects such as the landscape of mental health in the US and the governmental initiatives aimed at addressing these pressing issues. Check out more mental health resources here! https://bit.ly/3xsk6fE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this edition of Cream Of Mushroom Vape Trends, Jack and Miles discuss their respective weekends, the attempted assassination of Donald Trump… again, Elon Musk's "appauling" post-assassination attempt tweet, Ron DeSantis vowing to launch his own investigation into the attempt, Springfield, OH being beset by Proud Boys and bomb threats, JD Vance admitting to fabricating the pet-eating scandal, Campbell Soup Company changing their name after 155 years, RFK Jr. being investigated for collecting the head of a whale specimen 20 years ago, the US Surgeon General calling parental stress an urgent public health issue and much more!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tips for managing anxiety could not be a more timely topic, after the US Surgeon General's advisory about parents and mental health and the start of a new school year. You are going to LOVE my guest, Dr. Christopher Willard. He's an incredibly engaging and relatable author, clinical psychologist, and faculty member at Harvard Medical School. He's also one of the leading advocates for mindfulness as "psychological first aid" for parents and kids. He discusses the proven benefits of mindfulness including boosting positivity, regulating emotions, reducing anxiety and depression, and even changing our brains in ways that help us focus, absorb information, self-regulate, solve problems, and even create happiness. You'll learn what mindfulness is, how we can practice it in our daily lives, age-by-age exercises we can share with our kids, and other tips for reducing stress and anxiety. Dr. Willard even does a little live breathwork exercise that nearly puts Liz in a trance live on air! Tune in for his valuable insights to help all of us better manage anxiety and self-regulate as we head into a new school year. ----- Support Our Awesome Sponsor: Phyla Skincare: If you struggle with acne or have kids who do, save 25% your first order with code COOLMOM on Phyla Phortify Probiotic Serum. There's a reason Ryan Reynolds is an investor -- It's the breakthrough, science-backed, derm-recommended, probiotic acne serum that prevents breakouts all without harsh chemicals or side effects. Hard recommend! ----- Our Cool Picks of the Week include a discussion about the benefits of travel, and a Instagram account that sounds wacky but really is wonderful! ---- Follow Spawned: Apple, Spotify, Amazon Find Dr. Chris Willard: Website, Instagram, Amazon Find Liz Gumbinner: Instagram, Substack, Facebook, Threads Find Cool Mom Picks: Instagram, Facebook, Threads Join: The Spawned Podcast FB Community Shownotes from today's episode: Cool Mom Pick Podcast Page Subscribe for cool picks each week right in your inbox: coolmompicks.com/subscribe/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's Headlines: The Supreme Court had a busy day yesterday with several notable decisions. First, an unpublished opinion on emergency abortion care leaked online, revealing that emergency abortions can continue in Idaho for now due to the Court's decision not to rule on the merits of the case, upholding the EMTALA for the time being. In another decision, the Court ruled 6-3 to limit a federal public corruption law, allowing public officials to accept bribes for official acts if delivered after the fact, sparking concerns about ethics and accountability. Additionally, the Court upheld the government's ability to communicate with social media platforms about content moderation in a 6-3 ruling, but suggested that Congress should address the issue. In other news, President Biden pardoned thousands of LGBTQ veterans wrongfully discharged under a former law banning gay sex in the military, allowing them to apply for benefits. Sixteen Nobel Prize-winning economists warned that a second Trump administration would worsen inflation due to his proposed policies, including a 10% tariff on all imports. The US Surgeon General declared gun violence a public health crisis, urging Congress to take action. Meanwhile, Florida declined a federal grocery subsidy program that would have provided school meals for 2 million low-income children, citing operational costs and conditions. Lastly, a military coup attempt in Bolivia failed, with President Luis Arce remaining in power and the coup's leader arrested. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: WA Post: Supreme Court would allow emergency abortions for now, early opinion says NY Times: Supreme Court Rules Public Corruption Law Allows Gifts to Officials Axios: Biden admin notches SCOTUS social media win Axios: Biden pardons veterans convicted under military's ban on gay sex CBS News: 16 Nobel Prize-winning economists warn that Trump's economic plans could reignite inflation WA Post: U.S. surgeon general declares firearm violence a public health crisis WLRN: 'Very difficult': Florida opts out of federal grocery subsidy for 2 million low-income children AP News: Bolivian general arrested after apparent failed coup attempt as government faces new crisis Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach has filed a lawsuit against the Big Pharma heavyweight Pfizer over alleged false claims by the company over the safety and effectiveness of its mRNA Covid-19 shot. Are the floodgates about to open? Also today: the US Surgeon General wants to put cigarette-like warning labels on social media...for the children!

Have you ever felt lonely, even when surrounded by people? Do you struggle to forge meaningful connections in today's fast-paced, technology-driven world? If so, you're not alone. Loneliness is on the rise in many countries around the world and more people than ever before are feeling alone and isolated. In today's episode of my Feel Better Live More podcast, I'm joined for the second time by Vice Admiral Vivek H. Murthy - the 21st Surgeon General of the United States. He received his bachelor's degree from Harvard, his medical degree from the Yale School of Medicine, and his Masters in Business Administration from the Yale School of Management. In his role, Dr Murthy helps to advance the health and wellbeing of all Americans and has worked to address several critical public health issues. In our conversation, we discuss the growing epidemic of loneliness and its impact on our health. Vivek shares profound insights on the far-reaching consequences of loneliness, which extend beyond mental health to include physical health problems, including an increased risk of stroke, dementia, heart disease, and premature death. We delve into the root causes of the loneliness epidemic, exploring how fundamental shifts in technology and culture have altered the way we connect with others. Vivek emphasises the importance of taking social risks, building communication skills, taking regular social media breaks, the life changing benefits of volunteering, and he talks about the idea that simply dedicating just 10-15 minutes per day, to work out our social muscle will very quickly start to deepen our connections with the world around us. This thought-provoking conversation is for anyone looking to foster authentic connections in an increasingly disconnected world and deepen the relationships that matter most. Support the podcast and enjoy Ad-Free episodes. Try FREE for 7 days on Apple Podcasts https://apple.co/feelbetterlivemore. For other podcast platforms go to https://fblm.supercast.com. Buy tickets for my stage tour https://drchatterjee.com/tour Thanks to our sponsors: https://boncharge.com/livemore https://drinkag1.com/livemore Show notes https://drchatterjee.com/462 DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 346: Neal and Toby unpack US Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy's call for a warning label on social media apps before teens log on. Then, wealthy taxpayers have been exploiting a loophole and the IRS is fed up. Next, Wells Fargo's partnership with Bilt Rewards has been a favorite among cardholders… Except it's costing the bank millions of dollars. Plus, print magazines aren't quite dead yet. Toby explains why he sees a thriving trend for high-end niche print magazines. Meanwhile, McDonald's pulls back its AI-powered drive-thrus in over 100 stores due to its (quite comical) technical flaws. Lastly, customer satisfaction across 13 sectors are getting worse and worse. Have we lost the importance of customer service?  Download the Yahoo Finance App (on the Play and App store) for real-time alerts on news and insights tailored to your portfolio and stock watchlists. Get your Morning Brew Daily Mug HERE: https://shop.morningbrew.com/products/morning-brew-daily-mug?utm_medium=youtube&utm_source=mbd&utm_campaign=mug Listen to Morning Brew Daily Here: https://link.chtbl.com/MBD Watch Morning Brew Daily Here: https://www.youtube.com/@MorningBrewDailyShow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices