What happens when science meets soulful healing?
In this episode of the Starrcast Podcast, Dr. Jason Culp, Director of Research & Development at Chiva-Som International Health Resort, reveals how integrative wellness is evolving beyond luxury into a global movement rooted in evidence, empathy, and everyday choices.
From Thailand's pioneering Chiva-Som to the rise of holistic health leadership, this conversation redefines what it means to live well, and lead well, in a world driven by change.
What You'll Learn:
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How naturopathic medicine bridges the gap between science and self-awareness
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Why "lifestyle transformation" is the foundation of Chiva-Som's global wellness philosophy
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What makes research and development essential in the future of health resorts
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How Traditional Arabic & Islamic Medicine (TAIM) shaped Zulal Wellness Resort's regional identity
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Why social and family wellness are becoming the next frontier of longevity
Episode Highlights:
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00:00 – Returning to the origins of destination wellness: Chiva-Som's founding vision
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04:12 – Dr. Culp's journey from New Jersey to naturopathic medicine
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11:48 – The philosophy behind treating root causes, not just symptoms
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17:23 – What makes Bastyr University training unique in integrative medicine
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23:56 – Moving to Thailand and launching Chiva-Som's Research & Development department
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30:10 – The science of evidence-based wellness in a $7 trillion global industry
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36:25 – Inside the Chiva-Som experience: from nutrition to holistic therapies
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42:50 – Developing Zulal Wellness Resort and Traditional Arabic & Islamic Medicine (TAIM)
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48:15 – The rise of family and social wellness as the future of wellbeing
Meet the Guest:
Dr. Jason Culp is a naturopathic doctor and Director of Research & Development at Chiva-Som International Health Resort in Thailand. With over 15 years of leadership in integrative health innovation, he bridges scientific rigor with holistic philosophy to define the next era of evidence-based wellness.
Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Mentioned:
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Lifestyle Transformation Framework – Chiva-Som's core model for sustained wellbeing
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TAIM (Traditional Arabic & Islamic Medicine) – A regionalized wellness framework integrating heritage and evidence
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Family Cohesion Model – A social wellness paradigm promoting intergenerational health
Closing Insight:
"Wellness shouldn't chase fads, it should build trust through integrity and evidence."
Dr. Jason Culp's philosophy reminds us that true wellbeing is not an indulgence, it's a responsibility.
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