Health Reframed

In this episode of Health Reframed, I sit down with Dr. Aaron Sholders, Professor of Biochemistry at Colorado State University. We explore the science—and art—of effective teaching, drawing from his research on educational assessment and learning outcomes. Our conversation spans the evolving role of AI in education and society, the intersection of genetics and artificial intelligence, and how Dr. Sholders integrates his scientific ...

In this episode, we dive deep into the fascinating world of sleep — why it matters, what happens in your body and brain while you rest, and how poor sleep affects your mental health, immune system, hormones, and long-term health. We break down the sleep cycle, the role of REM and deep sleep, and the surprising truth about sleep deprivation.

Whether you struggle with insomnia, want to boost your energy, or are just curious about opt...

What exactly is "gut health"—and why is everyone talking about it? In this episode, we break down what the gut really is, from the structure and function of your gastrointestinal tract to the powerful microbiome living inside you. We explore the enteric nervous system—often called the "second brain"—and explain how it connects to your overall mental and physical health.

You’ll also learn about six common GI diseases, what causes th...

Stress is everywhere — but what actually happens in the body when we feel overwhelmed? In this episode, we break down the science of stress: from the brain's response and hormonal changes, to long-term health effects and practical ways to manage it. Whether you're dealing with burnout, chronic anxiety, or just the day-to-day grind, understanding stress is the first step to mastering it.

We’ll cover:

• How stress affects your br...

Proteins are the molecular machines that make life possible—but only if they fold into the right shape. In this episode, we explore the science behind protein folding and why it's one of biology's most complex puzzles. Then we dive into AlphaFold, the groundbreaking AI developed by DeepMind that’s revolutionizing how we predict protein structures with astonishing accuracy.

But with such powerful technology comes big questions: Who ...

What really happens when you call 911? In this episode, Lieutenant Firefighter Jarred Bess gives an inside look at the medical side of EMS, what every layperson should know about emergency response, and how to navigate high-stress situations. We also dive into the mental health challenges first responders face, the importance of resilience, and why human connection is at the heart of emergency medicine. Whether you're a first respo...

In this episode, we sit down with registered dietitian Parker Nelson, author of Nutrition Nonsense, to break down the most pervasive nutrition myths and explore why so much misinformation spreads about food and health. From social media fads to deceptive marketing tactics, Parker sheds light on how our relationship with food is shaped by culture, psychology, and misinformation—and how to navigate it all with evidence-based nutritio...

In this episode, we sit down with Gail Gould, also known as The CPR and Safety Lady, who brings over 30 years of experience in CPR training and emergency response. Gail has trained thousands of people — from corporate employees to school staff and healthcare professionals — equipping them with life-saving skills. We explore Gail’s journey from fitness instruction to becoming a leading CPR trainer, the critical importance of knowing...

In this episode, we sit down with Gianni Del Franco, a strength and conditioning coach with a wealth of experience in exercise science. Gianni holds a Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science and a Master's in Applied Exercise Physiology, bringing deep knowledge of how the body responds to training and how to optimize performance. He has worked with both professional athletes and everyday individuals, helping them unlock their full po...

George Visger, former NFL player and brain injury survivor, shares his powerful story about life in professional football, the toll of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), and how he has fought to overcome them. We discuss his personal struggles, the long-term effects of repeated head trauma, and his perspective on how the game—and the NFL’s handling of brain injuries—needs to evolve. This episode dives deep into the hidden costs of co...

For thousands of years, psychedelics have been used to strengthen communities, connect with the supernatural, and grow as an individual. What can we learn from these traditions? Psychedelics have become a popular topic in the mainstream culture, in large part because of all the new research coming out about them. But what does all the research say? Furthermore, there is an ongoing discussion about how we should approach psychedelic...

Meditation and its benefits have long been known to humanity, its origins stretching back thousands of years. However, what are all the benefits? What happens in your body when you meditate? How can we use meditation as a springboard to change how we think about medicine? These questions and more are some of the things we talk about in today's episode. Whether you have meditated for years and are curious about the science behind it...

No one likes getting a cold—the sore throat, the fatigue, and that relentless cough. But did you know your body has a remarkable immune system that uses 'war tactics' to fight off these viral invaders? In this episode, we dive into the science of how your immune system defends against the common cold and explore ways you can support it to recover faster. From getting plenty of rest and staying hydrated to over-the-counter treatment...

In this episode, we take a deep dive into Alzheimer's disease, one of the most talked-about conditions today as researchers search for a cure. We explore what causes Alzheimer’s, focusing on the role of protein clumping in the brain, including beta-amyloid and tau proteins, and how this leads to symptoms like memory loss and cognitive decline. We also discuss key risk factors such as age, genetics, and the impact of lifestyle choic...

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a widespread yet often misunderstood condition affecting nearly half of U.S. adults. In this episode, we break down what hypertension is, how medications work to lower blood pressure, and the lifestyle changes that can make a real difference. We also explore the cultural perspectives on health and how they shape our approach to managing chronic conditions. Whether you want to better understa...

Exercise is more than just a way to stay fit—it’s a powerful tool for overall health and well-being. In this episode, we break down the science of what happens in your body when you exercise, why it's so beneficial, and how you can use it to improve your health. We’ll also explore how to build an effective exercise routine, find motivation, and shift your mindset to make movement a lasting part of your life. Whether you're a beginn...