Explore every episode of the podcast Modern Thyroid and Wellness
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 104: How GLP-1s Are Impacting Women’s Health: Fertility, Thyroid, Menopause & Muscle | Live SXSW Panel | 22 Oct 2026 | 01:15:02 | |
GLP-1 medications have become synonymous with weight loss—but what if their impact on women’s health goes far beyond the number on the scale? Recorded live at SXSW in Austin, this special panel brings together experts in thyroid and metabolic health, fertility, menopause, and strength training to explore what women should really understand about GLP-1 medications. Moderated by Dr. Shannon Ritchey, PT, DPT, the conversation features McCall McPherson, PA-C, Dr. Natalie Crawford, MD, and Dr. Jessica Shepherd, MD. Together, they discuss appropriate use, microdosing, insulin resistance, inflammation, thyroid disease, PCOS, fertility, perimenopause, menopause, muscle preservation, side effects, long-term use, and the importance of individualized care. 🔑 In This Episode:
Fertility, PCOS & GLP-1s Dr. Natalie Crawford explains that fertility is more than simply the ability to become pregnant—it can also reflect hormonal and metabolic health. For patients with PCOS and insulin resistance, improving metabolic health may help restore ovulation and support fertility. However, Dr. Crawford emphasizes that GLP-1 medications are not intended to be used while actively trying to conceive or during pregnancy and discusses stopping them before conception under medical guidance. She also highlights resistance training and skeletal muscle as powerful tools for glucose utilization, insulin sensitivity, inflammation, and reproductive health. Thyroid Health, Inflammation & Microdosing McCall shares how her approach evolved toward lower, individualized doses after seeing patients struggle with nausea, inadequate nutrition, and difficulty consuming enough protein on standard dosing. The goal, she explains, is not simply appetite suppression or rapid weight loss. It is finding a dose that allows patients to nourish themselves, preserve muscle, and improve metabolic health while minimizing side effects. Menopause & Midlife Metabolic Health Dr. Jessica Shepherd explores how declining estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone during perimenopause and menopause influence the entire body—not just reproductive health. The panel discusses the relationship between hormone changes, glucose regulation, insulin, inflammation, visceral fat, joint symptoms, and the potential role GLP-1s may have alongside other individualized midlife interventions. Protecting Muscle on a GLP-1 Dr. Shannon Ritchey emphasizes that simply “lifting weights” is not always enough to preserve or build muscle. The panel discusses adequate protein and calories, monitoring body composition, potentially using tools such as DEXA scans, and performing resistance training with enough intensity to stimulate muscle adaptation. 📖 Pre-Order Take Back Your Thyroid + Get a Free Bonus Pre-order McCall McPherson’s new book, Take Back Your Thyroid, and choose one free bonus: 🎓 Thyroid Empowered Course — a $399 value OR 🩺 $150 off a new patient visit at Modern Thyroid Clinic 👉 https://book.modernthyroidclinic.com/ Featured Panelists Founder, Modern Thyroid Clinic Thyroid & metabolic health Fertility specialist and co-founder of Fora Fertility Author of The Fertility Formula OB-GYN and women’s health expert Author of Generation M Founder of Evlo Fitness Strength training and muscle-preservation expert 📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness Modern Thyroid Clinic: https://modernthyroidclinic.com/ McCall McPherson: https://www.mccallmcpherson.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mccallmcphersonpa/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0_JyQdBAJwYT3rMDsvyriw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/McCallMcPhersonPAC/ X / Twitter: This episode is for educational purposes only. GLP-1 medications are prescription medications and treatment decisions should be made with a qualified healthcare professional based on individual history, risks, goals, and current evidence. | |||
| 103: Insulin Resistance Changes Everything - The Hidden Driver of Weight Gain, Inflammation, and Thyroid Dysfunction with Dr. Alessia Roehnelt | 15 Oct 2026 | 00:43:57 | |
What if insulin resistance is quietly driving inflammation, weight gain, and thyroid dysfunction years before blood sugar ever looks abnormal? In this episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness, McCall McPherson sits down with endocrinologist Dr. Alessia Roehnelt for an in-depth conversation about insulin resistance and why it can be such an important marker of long-term metabolic health. Dr. Roehnelt explains how insulin functions in the body, what happens when insulin resistance develops, and why chronically elevated insulin can contribute to inflammation, weight gain, metabolic dysfunction, and disease progression. They also explore the bidirectional relationship between insulin resistance and hypothyroidism, including how thyroid dysfunction can worsen metabolic health and how insulin resistance can complicate thyroid function and treatment. 🔑 In This Episode:
🏃♀️ Improving Insulin Sensitivity Dr. Roehnelt and McCall discuss foundational strategies including:
💊 Medications Discussed Metformin
GLP-1 receptor agonists
🌿 Key Takeaways Insulin resistance can often be improved when identified early. “Normal” lab values do not always tell the entire story, and weight gain is far more complex than calories in versus calories out. One of the biggest themes in this episode is that inflammation connects metabolic dysfunction, thyroid disease, and autoimmunity, making individualized, whole-body evaluation incredibly important. 📖 Pre-Order Take Back Your Thyroid + Get a Free Bonus Pre-order McCall McPherson’s new book, Take Back Your Thyroid, and choose one free bonus: 🎓 Thyroid Empowered Course — a $399 value OR 🩺 $150 off a new patient visit at Modern Thyroid Clinic 👉 https://book.modernthyroidclinic.com/ 📍 Connect with Dr. Alessia Roehnelt Website & Practice: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/endohealthdoc/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alessia.roehnelt 📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness Modern Thyroid Clinic: https://modernthyroidclinic.com/ McCall McPherson: https://www.mccallmcpherson.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mccallmcphersonpa/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0_JyQdBAJwYT3rMDsvyriw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/McCallMcPhersonPAC/ X / Twitter: | |||
| 102: Is It ADHD or Your Hormones? The Thyroid & Perimenopause Connection with Dr. Jolene Brighten | 08 Oct 2026 | 00:47:42 | |
What if the brain fog, forgetfulness, emotional overwhelm, anxiety, or difficulty getting things done isn’t simply stress—or even your thyroid? In this episode of Modern Thyroid & Wellness, McCall McPherson, PA-C sits down with Dr. Jolene Brighten, women’s health expert and bestselling author, to explore the often-overlooked connection between ADHD in women, thyroid function, hormones, perimenopause, inflammation, and brain health. Dr. Brighten explains why so many women reach adulthood without an ADHD diagnosis and why hormonal transitions can suddenly make symptoms that were once manageable feel impossible to ignore. She also explains an important overlap for thyroid patients: hypothyroidism itself can create ADHD-like symptoms, including brain fog, low mental energy, working-memory problems, changes in neurotransmitter function, and difficulty with executive function. In This Episode:
ADHD or Hypothyroidism? One of the most important conversations in this episode is the overlap between ADHD and low thyroid function. Dr. Brighten explains that hypothyroidism can affect brain energy, memory, attention, neurotransmitters, and executive function. Her approach is to address hypothyroidism first when it could be contributing to new ADHD-like symptoms. If difficulties with planning, organization, emotional regulation, focus, or executive function persist—especially when similar patterns have existed since childhood—it may be worth investigating another layer. Why Hormones Matter Dr. Brighten discusses important hormonal windows when ADHD symptoms may change or become more obvious: puberty, postpartum, the pill, perimenopause, and postmenopause. During perimenopause in particular, shifts in estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, cortisol, insulin regulation, mitochondrial function, and brain energy may make brain fog, sleep problems, emotional dysregulation, and executive dysfunction more difficult. 📖 AVAILABLE NOW: ADHD and Women Dr. Brighten’s new book, ADHD and Women: A Guide to Optimizing Your Hormones and Thriving with ADHD, is available now. The book explores female ADHD through a hormone-focused lens and includes guidance on gut health, sleep, exercise, nutrition, supplements, hormones, quizzes, and a 14-day reset. 👉 https://drbrighten.com/adhd-and-women/ 📖 Pre-Order Take Back Your Thyroid + Get a Free Bonus Pre-order McCall McPherson’s new book, Take Back Your Thyroid, and choose one free bonus: 🎓 Thyroid Empowered Course — a $399 value OR 🩺 $150 off a new patient visit at Modern Thyroid Clinic 👉 https://book.modernthyroidclinic.com/ Connect with Dr. Jolene Brighten Website: 📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness 💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel 📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa This episode is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease or replace individualized medical care. | |||
| 101: From PCOS & Hypothyroidism to Long COVID: Personalized Healing, Peptides & Regenerative Medicine with Nicole Peterson Doran | 01 Oct 2026 | 00:38:45 | |
What happens when you’re doing everything “right” for your health but still don’t feel like yourself? In this episode of Modern Thyroid & Wellness, McCall McPherson sits down with Nicole Peterson Doran, co-founder of PUR-FORM, Humanaut Health franchisee, and host of The Healthspan Collective Podcast, to talk about her decades-long journey through PCOS, hypothyroidism, inflammation, fertility concerns, long COVID, mast cell activation symptoms, and ultimately finding a more personalized approach to health. Nicole’s story began at just 16 years old when she rapidly gained weight, developed facial hair, experienced irregular periods, severe fatigue, and intense brain fog. She was diagnosed with PCOS and later hypothyroidism, but traditional treatment did little to resolve how she actually felt. That experience eventually led her into integrative medicine, whole-food nutrition, mindfulness, and the concept of bio-individuality—the idea that what works for one person may not work for another. In This Episode:
Fertility After PCOS Nicole shares how being told as a teenager that getting pregnant could be difficult stayed with her for years. When she decided she wanted to conceive, she worked intentionally with her practitioners, focused on reducing inflammation, prioritized rest, limited travel, reduced alcohol and sugar, and used supplements including CoQ10 and fish oil. She became pregnant after approximately three months, while emphasizing that fertility is deeply individual and there is still an element of uncertainty that cannot always be controlled. Long COVID, MCAS & Finding New Tools After COVID, Nicole experienced months of intense histamine-type symptoms, inflammation, brain fog, irritability, and weight changes. She describes working with practitioners and personally using several tools during her recovery, including microdosed tirzepatide, thymosin alpha-1, larazotide, nutritional support, and regenerative therapies. These are shared as Nicole’s personal experience and are not recommendations for every listener. About Nicole Peterson Doran Nicole Peterson Doran is a co-founder of PUR-FORM, a comprehensive health optimization clinic in Boca Raton, Florida. She is also involved with Humanaut Health and hosts The Healthspan Collective Podcast. Her work focuses on personalized health, metabolic and hormonal wellness, regenerative medicine, and helping people find answers when conventional approaches have not been enough. Connect with Nicole Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicolejdoran/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolejpeterson/ PUR-FORM: Humanaut Health: This episode is for educational purposes only and does not replace individualized medical advice. 📖 Pre-Order Take Back Your Thyroid + Get a Free Bonus Pre-order McCall McPherson’s new book, Take Back Your Thyroid, and choose one free bonus: 🎓 Thyroid Empowered Course, a $399 value OR 🩺 $150 off a new patient visit at Modern Thyroid Clinic Pre-Order & Claim Your Free Bonus 📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness 💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel 📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa | |||
| 100: Still Sick on Thyroid Medication? – The Shocking Truth Doctors Aren’t Explaining with Elle Russ | 24 Sep 2026 | 00:40:20 | |
In this episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness, McCall McPherson, PA-C sits down with thyroid health expert and bestselling author Elle Russ to discuss why so many people with hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s continue experiencing symptoms even while taking thyroid medication—and what may be missing from conventional thyroid treatment. They break down the limitations of relying on TSH alone, the difference between “normal” thyroid labs and actually feeling well, and why thyroid treatment may need to consider the bigger picture, including T4, T3, reverse T3, medication type, dosage, timing, symptoms, and the individual patient. If you’ve ever been told your thyroid labs are normal while you still struggle with fatigue, brain fog, stubborn weight gain, mood changes, high cholesterol, fertility concerns, or other hypothyroid symptoms, this conversation will help you better understand the questions to ask about your thyroid care. 📖 PRE-ORDER TAKE BACK YOUR THYROID McCall McPherson’s new book, Take Back Your Thyroid, is the science-based guide for people who are tired of being told everything looks “normal” when they still don’t feel well. Pre-order the hardcover and receive the Thyroid Empowered Course ($399 value) FREE with your pre-order. 👉 Pre-order here: 🔑 IN THIS EPISODE:
👩⚕️ ABOUT ELLE RUSS Elle Russ is a bestselling author, thyroid health educator, and advocate. After experiencing years of hypothyroidism, misdiagnosis, and unsuccessful treatment herself, she became dedicated to helping others better understand thyroid health and advocate for more individualized care. She is the author of The Paleo Thyroid Solution and creator of The Ultimate Thyroid Course. 🔗 ELLE RUSS RESOURCES Website: Free Thyroid Guide: 🌐 ABOUT MODERN THYROID CLINIC Modern Thyroid Clinic specializes in helping patients understand and address persistent thyroid symptoms through individualized, comprehensive thyroid care. https://www.modernthyroidclinic.com Subscribe for weekly conversations about thyroid health, Hashimoto’s, hypothyroidism, hormones, metabolism, functional medicine, women’s health, and longevity. This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or replace individualized medical advice from your healthcare provider. #Hypothyroidism #Hashimotos #ThyroidHealth #ThyroidMedication #WomensHealth | |||
| 99: Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month: Early Detection, Surgery & What You Need to Know with Dr. Rashmi Roy | 17 Sep 2026 | 00:39:50 | |
Could a simple neck self-check help you notice a thyroid concern earlier? September is Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month, and in this episode of Modern Thyroid & Wellness, McCall McPherson sits down with Dr. Rashmi Roy, a fellowship-trained, board-certified endocrine surgeon specializing in thyroid and parathyroid disorders. Dr. Roy practices at the Hospital for Endocrine Surgery in Tampa and has performed thousands of thyroid and parathyroid procedures. Together, McCall and Dr. Roy have an important conversation about thyroid cancer risk, early detection, diagnosis, thyroid nodules, surgery, Hashimoto’s, and how patients can make more informed decisions about their thyroid health. They discuss how to perform a neck self-check, potential signs and risk factors to be aware of, and when thyroid ultrasound or additional evaluation may be appropriate. Dr. Roy also explains what patients should know before thyroid surgery, including common misconceptions, potential complications, and why the experience of your thyroid surgeon can matter when evaluating surgical options. The conversation also explores Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, its relationship to overall thyroid health and thyroid cancer risk, evolving approaches to treatment and post-surgical management, and why learning to ask better questions can help you become a stronger advocate for your own care. Whether you are navigating a thyroid nodule, Hashimoto’s, a possible thyroid cancer diagnosis, or an upcoming thyroid surgery, this episode offers practical information to help you approach the next step with greater clarity. 🔑 In This Episode:
👩⚕️ About Dr. Rashmi Roy Dr. Rashmi Roy is a fellowship-trained, board-certified endocrine surgeon specializing in thyroid and parathyroid disorders. She practices at the Hospital for Endocrine Surgery in Tampa and has performed thousands of thyroid and parathyroid procedures. Her extensive surgical experience gives her a valuable perspective on thyroid cancer diagnosis, surgical decision-making, potential complications, and what patients should consider when selecting a thyroid surgeon. If you know someone navigating thyroid nodules, thyroid cancer, Hashimoto’s, or an upcoming thyroid surgery, share this episode with them during Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month. 📘 Pre-Order Take Back Your Thyroid McCall McPherson’s new book, Take Back Your Thyroid, is available for pre-order now. Pre-order and receive FREE access to the Thyroid Empowered Course — a $399 value. 👉 Pre-order here: https://book.modernthyroidclinic.com/ 📲 Connect with McCall & Modern Thyroid Clinic McCall McPherson, PA-C Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa https://www.instagram.com/mccallmcphersonpa/ Modern Thyroid Clinic Instagram: @modernthyroid https://www.instagram.com/modernthyroid/ Learn more about Modern Thyroid Clinic: https://www.modernthyroidclinic.com/ This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace individualized medical care. #ThyroidCancerAwarenessMonth #ThyroidCancer #ThyroidHealth #ThyroidCancerAwareness #ThyroidSurgery #ThyroidNodules #Hashimotos #HashimotosDisease #Hypothyroidism #ThyroidDisease #EndocrineHealth #WomensHealth #ModernThyroidClinic #McCallMcPherson #TakeBackYourThyroid | |||
| 98: Thyroid Dysfunction, Cellular Stress & Autophagy: A New Way to Think About Chronic Illness with Dr. Bill Rawls | 10 Sep 2026 | 01:06:18 | |
What if thyroid dysfunction isn’t always an isolated thyroid problem, but a signal that the cells throughout your body are under too much stress? In this episode of Modern Thyroid & Wellness, McCall McPherson sits down with Dr. Bill Rawls, physician, bestselling author, and co-founder of Vital Plan, for a fascinating conversation about cellular health, chronic illness, autophagy, microbes, stress, thyroid function, and the role herbs may play in supporting resilience. Dr. Rawls’ perspective grew out of his own health crisis. After years of intense work and inadequate sleep as an OB-GYN, his health deteriorated dramatically. He experienced fatigue, neurological symptoms, joint problems, cardiac symptoms, and eventually discovered evidence of Lyme disease. After conventional approaches failed to restore his health, his experience with herbal therapy led him into decades of research on chronic illness and cellular wellness. In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
The Five Drivers of Cellular Stress Dr. Rawls encourages listeners to zoom out from individual diagnoses and look at the health of the cells themselves. He organizes common sources of cellular stress into five broad areas: inadequate nutrition, toxic exposures, insufficient recovery and sleep, physical stress or inactivity, and microbes. His goal is not simply to suppress symptoms, but to create an internal environment that gives cells the resources and recovery time they need to function well. Autophagy: Your Cells’ Recycling and Repair System A major part of the conversation focuses on autophagy, the ongoing process cells use to recycle damaged components and maintain themselves. Dr. Rawls explains how fasting, movement, and other mild stressors may stimulate this process, while excessive stress can become counterproductive. He emphasizes balance between stress and recovery, rather than believing that more fasting or harder exercise is always better. What Does This Mean for Thyroid Health? Dr. Rawls describes thyroid hormone as an important metabolic signal that helps cells produce and use energy. His central argument is that when cells are chronically stressed, thyroid function may become part of that larger picture. Rather than viewing fatigue or thyroid dysfunction completely in isolation, he encourages looking at sleep, nutrition, stress, environmental exposures, movement, and overall cellular health. Connect with Dr. Bill Rawls 📖 The Cellular Wellness Solution RESTORE180™ Dr. Rawls also shares RESTORE180, Vital Plan’s six-month program for people navigating complex chronic illness. The program progresses through stress regulation, gut and detoxification support, and concentrated botanical formulations. 📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness 💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel 📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa | |||
| 97: The Thyroid Supplement Guide: What to Take for Energy, Hair Loss, Hashimoto’s & More with Melissa Afflerbach | 03 Sep 2026 | 00:28:59 | |
With thousands of supplements promising more energy, better hair, improved thyroid function, and healthier aging, how do you know what your body actually needs? In this episode of Modern Thyroid & Wellness, McCall McPherson sits down with Melissa “Mel” Afflerbach, Clinical Director of Weight Loss & Supplement Programs, for a practical conversation about the supplements they use and recommend within their thyroid and metabolic health programs. They break down some of the most common concerns women with hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s experience—from persistent fatigue and low energy to hair loss—and explain why supplementation should support the bigger picture rather than replace investigating the root cause of a symptom. In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
McCall also shares the deeply personal story behind the “Sol” found throughout the MDRN Health line. Her late brother, Solomon, had been working on the project before his unexpected passing, and the line now carries part of his legacy forward. Supplements Discussed in This Episode Adrena-Sol — adrenal and energy support Mito-Sol — mitochondrial and cellular energy support Beauty Glow Collagen — collagen support for hair, skin, and nails Complete Beauty — micronutrient support for hair, skin, and nails Astaxanthin Antioxidant — antioxidant and skin support ThyroShield™ — myo-inositol + selenium thyroid support Shop MDRN Wellness The MDRN Wellness store was created to make choosing supplements less overwhelming. Products are selected by McCall and the clinical team with the needs of people navigating thyroid dysfunction, hormone concerns, low energy, and related symptoms in mind. Shop All MDRN Wellness Supplements 📖 Pre-Order Take Back Your Thyroid + Get a Free Bonus Pre-order McCall McPherson’s new book, Take Back Your Thyroid, and choose one free bonus: 🎓 Thyroid Empowered Course, a $399 value OR 🩺 $150 off a new patient visit at Modern Thyroid Clinic Pre-Order & Claim Your Free Bonus 📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness 💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel 📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa | |||
| 96: Your Thyroid Is a Barometer: What Chronic Disease Can Teach Us About Stress, Environment, and Prevention with Kelly McKenna | 27 Aug 2026 | 00:31:23 | |
What if your thyroid symptoms aren’t an isolated problem, but one signal from a body asking you to pay attention? In this episode of Modern Thyroid & Wellness, McCall McPherson sits down with Kelly McKenna, CEO and Co-Founder of End Chronic Disease, to explore thyroid health, autoimmunity, chronic stress, environmental exposures, nutrition, and what it really means to focus on prevention. Kelly’s health journey began with a celiac disease diagnosis in high school, followed by nearly two decades of autoimmune and chronic health challenges. In her early 30s, thyroid labs disrupted her plans to freeze her eggs and pushed her to ask a different question: instead of accepting hypothyroidism as inevitable, what might actually be driving it? That curiosity eventually changed both her health and career. Key Topics Covered
When Your Thyroid Becomes a Warning System After being re-diagnosed with Hashimoto’s, Kelly began closely observing how changes in sleep, nutrition, nutrient status, stress, and other aspects of daily life corresponded with her symptoms and thyroid labs. She focused on nutrients including iodine, selenium, vitamin D, and iron and experimented with dietary changes. As her thyroid markers improved, she noticed changes in her skin, digestion, fatigue, and overall wellbeing too. Today, Kelly describes her thyroid as a “barometer for my whole body.” When fatigue and familiar symptoms return, she views them as signals that her body may need more support, rest, or recovery. Stress, Environment, and Chronic Disease Kelly also shares how growing up with a brother who experienced significant disabilities and frequent seizures created a chronic sense of uncertainty and stress, even within a loving family. Only later did she recognize how those experiences may have shaped her stress response. The conversation expands into environmental health, including paraquat exposure, ultra-processed foods, school environments, movement, and why the places where we live, work, learn, and eat deserve a larger role in conversations about chronic disease prevention. What If You’re Already Exhausted? When someone is already depleted, complicated wellness routines can feel impossible. Kelly recommends returning to basics. Her personal recovery toolbox has included restorative yoga, putting her legs up the wall, prioritizing sleep, simplifying food, gentle walking, acupuncture, positive experiences with people she loves, and examining emotional stress or boundaries that may be draining energy. The goal is to learn your body’s signals and build a collection of tools you can return to when you need them. About Kelly McKenna Kelly McKenna is the CEO and Co-Founder of End Chronic Disease, an organization focused on chronic disease prevention, education, awareness, and policy change. 📸 Kelly on Instagram @earth.to.kelly 📖 Pre-Order Take Back Your Thyroid + Get a Free Bonus Pre-order McCall McPherson’s new book, Take Back Your Thyroid, and choose one free bonus: 🎓 Thyroid Empowered Course, a $399 value OR 🩺 $150 off a new patient visit at Modern Thyroid Clinic Pre-Order & Claim Your Free Bonus 📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness 💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel 📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa | |||
| 95: Your DNA Is Not Your Destiny: How Genetics Can Personalize Thyroid Health, Hormones, Metabolism, and Longevity with Kashif Khan | 20 Aug 2026 | 00:39:31 | |
What if the foods, supplements, workouts, and hormone therapies that work beautifully for someone else are completely wrong for your biology? In this episode of Modern Thyroid & Wellness, McCall McPherson sits down with Kashif Khan, bestselling author of The DNA Way, celebrity longevity coach, and two-time TEDx speaker, for a deep dive into functional genomics and personalized health. Kashif explains how DNA acts as an instruction manual for the body and why understanding those instructions may help explain why people respond so differently to the same foods, environmental exposures, exercise programs, supplements, and hormone therapies. Drawing from his own experience with chronic illness and years of genetic research, Kashif explores the relationship between genetics and lifestyle, including thyroid health, Hashimoto’s, women’s hormones, detoxification, metabolism, gut health, sleep, cognitive function, inflammation, and longevity. The conversation offers a different way to think about personalized medicine: instead of simply asking what disease you may be genetically predisposed to, ask how your biology works and what choices may better support it. Key Topics Covered
DNA as Your Body’s Instruction Manual Kashif describes DNA in practical terms as an instruction manual contained within the cells of the body. Genes provide instructions for countless biological processes, including producing hormones, metabolizing food, detoxifying compounds, and supporting cognitive function. The important difference is that everyone's instruction manual is slightly different. That helps explain why two people can follow the same diet, take the same hormone prescription, or perform the same exercise routine and experience dramatically different outcomes. Genetics Load the Gun, Environment Pulls the Trigger One of the central ideas in the episode is the interaction between genetics and epigenetics. Your DNA does not change every time you change your diet or lifestyle, but the choices you make interact with the biological instructions you inherited. Kashif groups those choices into three broad areas:
Environment includes what you are exposed to. Nutrition includes food, supplements, and other nutritional interventions. Lifestyle encompasses factors such as exercise, work, and sleep. Understanding genetics, therefore, is not simply about predicting disease. Kashif sees it as a way to understand how your individual body processes the choices you make every day. Kashif’s Personal Health Journey Kashif did not enter genomics through a traditional medical or scientific career path. Around age 38, after previously considering himself healthy, he developed multiple chronic health problems, including severe eczema, psoriasis, gut issues, migraines, reflux, and inflammation. He received diagnoses and prescriptions but remained focused on a different question: Why did this happen? His search took him through traditional Chinese medicine, homeopathy, naturopathy, functional medicine, hormone health, the microbiome, and eventually genetics. Understanding genetic differences helped him begin connecting his individual biology with environmental and lifestyle exposures. His recovery ultimately inspired him to leave his previous technology consulting business and build a genetic research company. Why Your Detoxification Genetics Matter Kashif uses his own GSTM1 genetics as an example of how individual differences can influence detoxification. He explains that glutathione plays an important role in neutralizing and removing unwanted compounds and that genetic differences can affect how those processes function in different areas of the body. In Kashif’s case, he discovered a copy number variation involving GSTM1, which became one piece of understanding why exposures that did not seem to affect someone living an otherwise similar lifestyle could affect him differently. This illustrates the broader problem with one-size-fits-all wellness advice: what is tolerated well by most people may not necessarily be optimal for every individual. Why DNA Testing Is Different Hormones change. The gut microbiome changes. Toxic burden changes. Cholesterol changes. DNA does not. Kashif explains that this permanence is part of what makes genomic information valuable. Rather than repeatedly testing DNA, the goal is to understand what your genetic information means and then use that knowledge alongside changing health data throughout your life. His current mission centers heavily on education and helping people better understand their own genetic information. Start With the Foundation Before Biohacking One of Kashif’s cautions is that people often enter the longevity and biohacking world by copying people who have already spent years optimizing their health. That can quickly become overwhelming. His suggested framework begins with identifying where you currently are. If there is an acute health problem, address that first. Then consider foundational areas such as:
Trying to fix decades of accumulated problems in two weeks is unlikely to create the sustainable outcome people are looking for. The goal is to work in the right order rather than doing everything at once. Five Areas Functional Genomics Can Help Personalize Kashif identifies several major areas where he believes functional genomics can provide useful insights. Cognitive Function Genetic differences may influence neurochemical pathways involved in behavior, reward, focus, and how people perceive and respond to their environment. Sleep Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, feeling restored, or naturally functioning better earlier or later in the day may involve different biological pathways. Metabolism People do not necessarily respond identically to the same macronutrient balance. Kashif shares an example involving female athletes who were struggling on a low-carbohydrate approach but performed better after carbohydrates were reintroduced based on their individual biology. Gut and Environmental Health Genetics may help provide context for how an individual responds to environmental exposures and how effectively certain detoxification processes function. Hormones This is one of the areas Kashif believes has enormous potential, particularly for women. Understanding how someone produces, binds, metabolizes, and clears hormones may provide a more personalized framework for women's health. Genetics, Thyroid Health, and Hashimoto’s McCall and Kashif take the conversation directly into thyroid health. Kashif explains that people may arrive with symptoms such as fatigue without realizing that thyroid physiology could be part of the picture. They discuss potential connections among detoxification pathways, environmental exposures, gut-brain signaling, autoimmunity, estrogen metabolism, and thyroid health. The bigger takeaway is that there may not be one universal reason someone develops Hashimoto’s or another thyroid problem. Kashif’s approach is to ask what biological pathways may be contributing in that particular individual so interventions can become more precise rather than simply adding more generalized recommendations. Why Women’s Hormones Need More Personalization Kashif describes women’s hormone health as one of the areas where his research revealed significant gaps in conventional approaches. The conversation explores estrogen metabolism and why understanding what happens after estrogen is produced may matter. Kashif discusses different estrogen metabolites and how genetics may influence their production and processing. For McCall, this aligns with what she sees clinically: thyroid hormones and reproductive hormones cannot always be treated as isolated systems. Understanding how an individual... | |||
| 94: Menopause Is Not the End: How to Prepare Your Body to Thrive in Midlife with Lisa Jedan | 13 Aug 2026 | 00:36:42 | |
What if menopause wasn’t something to fear or simply endure, but a transition you could actively prepare for? In this episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness, McCall McPherson sits down with Lisa Jedan, creator and host of MenoPositive, to challenge the long-standing narrative that menopause automatically means decline. After a successful career in PR and marketing, where she helped build brands and shape stories, Lisa turned those same skills toward changing the conversation around women’s health and aging. Lisa shares what she has learned from interviewing experts across conventional medicine, Chinese medicine, longevity, breathwork, nutrition, and women’s health. The message she hears repeatedly is clear: hormones do not operate in isolation, and the earlier women invest in their health, the more options they may have as they age. Together, McCall and Lisa explore strength training, nutrition, metabolism, thyroid health, Hashimoto’s, mindset, digestion, protein, fiber, sustainable lifestyle changes, and why midlife may become one of the healthiest and most fulfilling chapters of a woman’s life. Key Topics Covered
Changing the Menopause Narrative Lisa began her career as a dancer and performer before moving into PR and marketing, where she built a career around storytelling and changing narratives. When she entered perimenopause and menopause herself, she noticed that the cultural story surrounding this stage of life did not match her experience. So much of the messaging centered on loss, decline, and everything women should expect to go wrong. Lisa wanted a different conversation. That desire became MenoPositive, a platform and philosophy built around educating women about hormone changes while showing them what they can actively do to support their health. After interviewing experts from a wide range of disciplines, Lisa says one message consistently emerges: menopause does not have to equal decline. Why We Should Prepare for Menopause Lisa makes a compelling comparison: we prepare for pregnancy, retirement, and marathons, so why do so many women arrive at one of the biggest biological transitions of their lives without preparation? Historically, women have often been taught to wait until symptoms appear and then figure out how to manage them. Lisa wants to reverse that approach. Instead of asking, “How can I manage these symptoms?” she encourages women to ask how they can prepare their bodies for a more positive menopause experience. For Lisa, this is not about perfection. It is about preparation and beginning wherever you are. Thyroid Health and Menopause Symptoms Can Overlap Lisa also lives with Hashimoto’s, giving her firsthand experience with how difficult it can be to distinguish thyroid symptoms from hormonal changes during midlife. Mood changes, libido concerns, fatigue, brain fog, and changes in how the body feels can appear across both thyroid dysfunction and perimenopause. One of the biggest lessons Hashimoto’s taught Lisa was to become curious about what her body was communicating rather than automatically accepting symptoms as her new normal. McCall emphasizes that thyroid hormones and reproductive hormones do not exist in isolation. Understanding both can be especially important as women move through their 30s, 40s, and beyond. Why Women Need to Put Themselves Back on the List Whether a woman is the CEO of a company or the CEO of her household, Lisa observes that women often place themselves third, fourth, or fifth on their own priority lists. Midlife can offer an opportunity to change that. Lisa encourages women to believe they deserve to be healthy and to recognize that investing in themselves does not require changing everything overnight. Cooking one additional vegetable, adding a little movement, or making one sustainable change can begin shifting the trajectory. McCall connects this idea to the power of small habits. Tiny actions may seem insignificant in isolation, but when repeated consistently, they compound. Strength Training as a Midlife “Secret Weapon” For Lisa, two changes significantly influenced her menopause experience: strength training and nutrition. She had always been active because of her background as a dancer, but midlife encouraged her to change the way she exercised. Strength training became a priority. Lisa noticed changes not only in her body, but also in her mood, sleep, confidence, and mindset. McCall emphasizes that building muscle becomes increasingly challenging as women move through perimenopause and menopause, making it valuable to establish that foundation earlier. Lisa compares strength training to putting money in the bank. Building strength now creates reserves that may become increasingly valuable later in life. Keep the Schedule, Change the Scope One of Lisa’s favorite ideas comes from Atomic Habits by James Clear: “Keep the schedule, change the scope.” If you planned to exercise but suddenly only have ten minutes, doing those ten minutes still allows you to keep the promise you made to yourself. Lisa and McCall discuss how this consistency builds something even bigger than fitness: self-trust. Every time you follow through, especially when you do not feel like it, you reinforce the belief that you can rely on yourself. That mindset can make sustainable health changes much more achievable than an all-or-nothing approach. From Biohacking to Bioharmony Women today are surrounded by wellness advice. Eat more protein. Take supplements. Strength train. Optimize your hormones. Track your sleep. Improve your metabolism. Eventually, optimization itself can become exhausting. Lisa believes the conversation is beginning to shift away from constant “biohacking” toward what she calls bioharmony, a more sustainable approach to working with the body rather than endlessly trying to optimize every variable. The foundation remains surprisingly simple: Eat well. Move your body. Sleep. These habits are not always easy, but Lisa believes establishing them first creates a stronger foundation before adding more advanced interventions. Protein, Fiber, and Digestion in Midlife Nutrition is another major part of the conversation. Across Lisa’s interviews with experts, protein repeatedly emerges as an important topic, particularly alongside strength training and maintaining muscle. But protein is not the whole story. Lisa also emphasizes fiber and digestive regularity. She shares that many women assume having a bowel movement every two or three days is normal. Her own experience taught her how stress and rushed mornings could affect digestion. Two simple foods she regularly incorporates are flaxseed and sprouts. She prepares flaxseed ahead of time and adds it to yogurt, while sprouts can easily be added to eggs, salads, or meals. These small, affordable habits reflect Lisa’s larger philosophy: health does not always require expensive or complicated interventions. You Have More Influence Than You Think When McCall asks Lisa what mindset shift she wishes every woman could make, her answer is simple: You have a choice. Lisa believes women have more influence over how they approach and experience menopause than many have been led to believe. That does not mean every symptom can be prevented or that every woman will have the same experience. It means women can become informed, seek appropriate care, strengthen their health foundations, and make choices that support the decades ahead. Your Best Years Are Not Behind You Perhaps the biggest myth Lisa wants to challenge is the idea that a woman’s best years are over once she reaches midlife. She sees the opposite. Women in their 40s, 50s, and 60s are starting businesses, stepping into leadership, pursuing new goals, and redefining what aging looks like. Instead of treating menopause as an ending, Lisa sees it as an opportunity to enter the second half of life with greater wisdom, perspective, confidence, and purpose. For her, menopause can be a powerful new beginning. Final Takeaway Preparing for menopause does not mean pursuing perfection. It means starting where you... | |||
| 93: Can Your Brain Keep You Stuck in Chronic Illness? The Missing Role of Neuroplasticity in Healing with Faith Ashenden | 06 Aug 2026 | 00:57:11 | |
What if you've optimized your thyroid hormones, improved your nutrition, reduced inflammation, and addressed the underlying biochemistry, but you still don't feel fully well? In this episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness, McCall McPherson welcomes chronic illness recovery educator Faith Ashenden for a fascinating conversation about the neuroscience of healing and how the brain may continue reinforcing chronic symptoms long after the body has begun to recover. After overcoming Graves' disease, chronic fatigue syndrome, IBS, panic attacks, and years of debilitating illness, Faith now teaches women how to retrain subconscious patterns, regulate the nervous system, and rebuild confidence in their health. Together, McCall and Faith explore why healing is about more than lab work alone, how chronic illness can shape identity, and why combining functional medicine with nervous system work may help people move from simply managing symptoms to truly thriving. Key Topics Covered
Faith's Story of Chronic Illness Faith developed Graves' disease while attending college after experiencing severe anxiety, rapid weight loss, heart palpitations, overwhelming fatigue, and multiple unexplained symptoms. After months of searching for answers, she was finally diagnosed when an endocrinologist recognized the signs almost immediately. Although treatment addressed her hyperthyroidism, Faith continued struggling for years with chronic fatigue, digestive issues, anxiety, and other persistent health challenges. Her experience eventually led her into functional medicine, where she began addressing the underlying physiological contributors to her symptoms before discovering the important role that neuroplasticity and the nervous system would play in her long-term recovery. Why the Brain Matters in Chronic Illness Faith explains that when symptoms persist for months or years, the brain naturally adapts. Through neuroplasticity, the brain learns patterns that associate certain situations, environments, or activities with symptom responses. Even after many underlying physical issues have improved, these learned pathways may continue reinforcing chronic symptoms. Rather than suggesting illness is "all in your head," Faith emphasizes that biochemical healing and nervous system healing often work together. Healing Beyond the Lab Results McCall shares that many patients improve dramatically after optimizing thyroid hormones, inflammation, nutrition, and metabolic health, yet some continue feeling as though they cannot fully regain their confidence or resilience. Faith believes this is where subconscious beliefs, fear of relapse, and nervous system regulation become important. Together, they discuss how healing often involves addressing both physiology and psychology instead of viewing them as competing explanations. The Identity of Being Chronically Ill One of the most powerful themes throughout the episode is identity. After years of illness, many people begin organizing their lives around avoiding symptoms rather than building confidence in recovery. Faith encourages listeners to recognize when the identity of being chronically ill has become part of their daily thinking and to intentionally begin creating a new vision of themselves beyond illness. Trauma Doesn't End With the Diagnosis The conversation also highlights an often-overlooked form of trauma: the experience of living with chronic illness itself. Repeated medical appointments, unanswered questions, fear of relapse, canceled plans, and years of uncertainty can all shape subconscious beliefs about safety and health. Faith explains that recognizing and working through those experiences may become an important part of long-term recovery. Practical Steps to Retrain the Brain Faith encourages listeners to become more intentional about where they place their attention. Rather than constantly searching for evidence that reinforces illness, she recommends looking for evidence of healing, celebrating small improvements, and creating daily habits that reinforce resilience instead of fear. She also discusses limiting exposure to online communities or content that continually reinforces hopelessness while seeking stories of recovery, possibility, and growth. Healing Is a Journey Both McCall and Faith agree that healing rarely happens in a perfectly straight line. Setbacks and symptom flares do not necessarily erase progress. Instead, they can become opportunities to strengthen new patterns, build confidence, and continue developing trust in the body's ability to heal. The goal is not perfection but creating a healthier relationship with both the body and the mind. Final Takeaway Faith Ashenden reminds us that healing is about more than simply eliminating symptoms. Once the body's underlying physiology has been addressed, rebuilding confidence, changing limiting beliefs, regulating the nervous system, and creating new patterns of resilience may become the next layer of recovery. By combining functional medicine with neuroscience and mindset work, many people may discover possibilities for healing they never thought were available. About Faith Ashenden Faith Ashenden is a chronic illness recovery educator, founder of That Healing Feeling, and host of the That Healing Feeling Podcast. After fully recovering from Graves' disease, chronic fatigue syndrome, IBS, panic attacks, and multiple chronic health conditions, she now helps women understand the neuroscience of healing, nervous system regulation, and subconscious pattern change through her educational programs and coaching. Resources & Links 🌐 Faith Ashenden https://www.instagram.com/thathealingfeeling/ 🎙️ That Healing Feeling Podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/5bOaTuON429YbnFesShdxt 🎓 Free Masterclass Available through Faith's website and Instagram. 📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness 💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel 📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa | |||
| 92: Could Chronic Inflammation Be the Missing Link? The Science Behind Sulforaphane, Detoxification, and Cellular Health with David Roberts & Dr. John Gildea | 30 Jul 2026 | 00:53:32 | |
What if the key to better thyroid health, metabolism, and longevity starts at the cellular level? In this episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness, McCall McPherson is joined by David Roberts and Dr. John Gildea, the founders of Mara Labs, to explore the science behind chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, detoxification, and why bioavailability is one of the most overlooked factors in nutritional supplementation. David shares the deeply personal story that inspired Mara Labs after his wife Mara's battle with breast cancer, while Dr. Gildea explains how his own scientific research led him to develop innovative ways to improve the absorption of powerful natural compounds like sulforaphane and curcumin. Together, they discuss how environmental toxins, poor nutrition, gut barrier dysfunction, and chronic inflammation may contribute to many of today's chronic health conditions—and why supporting the body's natural detoxification pathways is more important than ever. Key Topics Covered
From Personal Tragedy to Purpose Mara Labs was born from an incredibly personal journey. After David Roberts' wife Mara was diagnosed with breast cancer, he partnered with scientist Dr. John Gildea to better understand natural compounds that could support cellular health. Their research led them to sulforaphane, a compound naturally found in broccoli sprouts, but they quickly discovered that creating a stable, bioavailable form was one of the biggest scientific challenges. Following Mara's passing, David and John committed themselves to bringing scientifically formulated, highly bioavailable nutritional supplements to market in her honor. Why Bioavailability Matters One of the biggest themes throughout the conversation is that the quality of a supplement depends on much more than the ingredient listed on the label. Many natural compounds show remarkable results in laboratory studies but are poorly absorbed by the human body. David and Dr. Gildea explain how Mara Labs focuses on improving bioavailability so these compounds can actually reach the cells where they are intended to work. Rather than simply increasing dosage, their research has centered on improving delivery. Chronic Inflammation Starts Long Before Disease The conversation explores how chronic disease often develops years before a formal diagnosis. Dr. Gildea explains that declining nutrient density, increasing environmental toxin exposure, oxidative stress, and chronic low-grade inflammation gradually affect cellular function over time. Whether those changes eventually appear as thyroid disease, metabolic dysfunction, autoimmune conditions, or another chronic illness often depends on an individual's genetics, lifestyle, and overall resilience. Detoxification Is More Than a Trend Detoxification is often misunderstood. The guests explain that true detoxification involves multiple phases that occur throughout the body—not just in the liver—and depends on properly transforming, processing, and eliminating toxins. They also emphasize that reducing exposure remains just as important as supporting the body's detoxification pathways. Simple strategies discussed include improving indoor air quality with HEPA filtration, drinking filtered water, choosing less processed foods, and purchasing food from trusted local sources whenever possible. NRF2: The Master Switch for Cellular Protection A major focus of the episode is NRF2, one of the body's primary cellular defense pathways. The guests explain how sulforaphane activates NRF2, supporting antioxidant production, Phase II detoxification, cellular resilience, and healthy inflammatory responses. Curcumin is also discussed as another compound that complements these pathways while supporting a balanced inflammatory response. Together, these compounds may help support overall cellular health through multiple biological mechanisms. Environmental Toxins and Microplastics David and Dr. Gildea discuss the growing concern surrounding microplastics and endocrine-disrupting chemicals. They explain how microplastics may carry additional toxins into the body while potentially interfering with normal hormonal signaling. The conversation also introduces Microplast-X™, a newer Mara Labs product designed to support the body's natural ability to remove accumulated microplastics. Supporting Metabolic Health The discussion also explores GLPerfect™, a supplement developed to support healthy metabolism using highly bioavailable natural compounds. Rather than replacing prescription GLP-1 medications, the product was designed as a nutritional approach that supports several pathways involved in appetite regulation, blood sugar balance, fat metabolism, and muscle preservation. The conversation highlights the importance of viewing metabolism through a broader lens than weight loss alone. Thyroid Health and Cellular Function McCall connects many of the concepts discussed back to thyroid health. She explains that many patients produce adequate thyroid hormone but struggle with activation, conversion, or cellular utilization. Reducing inflammation, supporting antioxidant defenses, and improving overall cellular health may help create a healthier environment for thyroid hormone function. The discussion also explores the relationship between inflammation and Hashimoto's thyroiditis and why supporting the body's underlying physiology may benefit overall wellness. Final Takeaway David Roberts and Dr. John Gildea remind us that long-term health begins long before disease is diagnosed. Supporting healthy cellular function, reducing chronic inflammation, minimizing toxic exposures, and improving nutrient bioavailability all contribute to building a stronger foundation for lifelong health. Rather than searching for a single miracle solution, lasting wellness often comes from consistently supporting the body's natural systems and choosing interventions backed by thoughtful science. About the Guests David Roberts is the co-founder and Managing Partner of Mara Labs. Inspired by his wife Mara's battle with breast cancer, he helped establish the company to develop highly bioavailable nutritional supplements focused on supporting cellular health, detoxification, and longevity. Dr. John Gildea is the co-founder and Chief Science Officer of Mara Labs. A molecular biologist and researcher, his work focuses on cellular biology, oxidative stress, nutrient bioavailability, inflammation, and the development of innovative nutritional compounds that support healthy aging. Resources & Links Special Offer Visit: mara-labs.com/mccall Use code MCCALL for a special listener discount available after the episode release. 📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness 💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel 📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa | |||
| 91: When Standard Treatment Isn’t Enough: How Root-Cause and Regenerative Medicine Changed Nicole Peterson Doran’s Health | 23 Jul 2026 | 00:39:17 | |
What if PCOS, thyroid dysfunction, chronic inflammation, fertility concerns, and post-viral illness aren’t completely separate health problems, but connected chapters of a much bigger story? In this episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness, McCall McPherson sits down with Nicole Peterson Doran, co-founder of PUR-FORM and host of The Healthspan Collective podcast. Nicole shares her personal journey from being diagnosed with PCOS at just 16 and later hypothyroidism to discovering functional and integrative medicine, preparing for pregnancy, navigating long COVID and mast cell activation syndrome, and ultimately helping build businesses focused on personalized health optimization and regenerative medicine. Together, McCall and Nicole explore why there is no one-size-fits-all approach to healing, how foundational habits and personalized care can work together, and how emerging tools such as GLP-1 medications, peptides, EBO2, and regenerative therapies are becoming part of a broader conversation around complex health challenges. 🔑 Key Topics Covered
Nicole’s Health Journey Started at 16 Nicole had been a healthy athlete when her health suddenly changed during her teenage years. Within months, she gained approximately 30 pounds, developed facial hair and irregular periods, struggled with severe fatigue, and experienced significant brain fog. After seeing multiple specialists, her mother took her to a trusted OB/GYN who decided to investigate her hormones and thyroid more deeply. Nicole was diagnosed with PCOS and, a year or two later, hypothyroidism. She was prescribed birth control and metformin. While these treatments addressed certain aspects of her condition, Nicole still struggled with her weight, inflammation, and energy. She knew she needed to look deeper. Discovering a Different Approach to Health A major turning point came after college when Nicole began working with a health coach. Instead of obsessively tracking calories and macros, she shifted her attention toward whole foods and began exploring how nutrition, stress, mindfulness, and emotional wellbeing influenced her health. She noticed her inflammation gradually improving. The experience ultimately inspired Nicole to study at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, where she was introduced to a concept that became central to her approach to health: bio-individuality. What works for one person may not work for another. Nicole personally thrives living gluten-free, but she emphasizes that this does not mean everyone needs to eliminate gluten. Intermittent fasting may transform one person’s health while being completely wrong for someone else. McCall sees the same principle in thyroid care. There is no universally “best” thyroid medication or diet because each person’s physiology and needs are different. However, certain foundations remain important for almost everyone: whole-food nutrition, balanced blood sugar, quality sleep, movement, and stress management. PCOS, Fertility, and Preparing for Pregnancy When Nicole was diagnosed with PCOS as a teenager, she was told becoming pregnant might be difficult. The message stayed with her because she had always wanted to become a mother. Years later, when pregnancy became a priority, Nicole intentionally focused on creating the healthiest foundation she could. Working with her practitioners, she focused on lowering inflammation and supporting her overall health through personalized nutrition and supplementation. She discusses CoQ10 and fish oil, reducing sugar, eliminating alcohol, continuing her gluten-free lifestyle, temporarily removing dairy, and significantly reducing travel and stress. Perhaps most importantly, she gave herself permission to slow down. Nicole became pregnant after approximately three months of trying. She acknowledges that fertility is complex and that no lifestyle strategy can guarantee pregnancy. Still, her experience offers an encouraging perspective for women who fear that a PCOS diagnosis automatically means they will be unable to conceive. When Long COVID Triggered a New Health Crisis By 2023, Nicole felt healthier than she had in years. Then she contracted COVID during an intensely stressful period surrounding the launch of her business and her wedding. She became severely ill just days before getting married. After the acute infection passed, unusual symptoms remained. Nicole began experiencing significant histamine reactions, inflammation, weight changes, brain fog, fatigue, and irritability. Eventually, a practitioner recognized symptoms consistent with mast cell activation syndrome in the context of her post-viral health challenges. This became another turning point in how Nicole understood her body. Her immune system, gut health, inflammation, stress, and metabolic health were not operating independently. They were deeply interconnected. GLP-1s, Peptides, and Personalized Medicine Nicole worked with practitioners to explore different strategies during her recovery. She shares her personal experience with microdosed tirzepatide, a GLP-1-based medication, which she describes as an important tool for her own inflammation and metabolic health. She also discusses peptides, including thymosin alpha-1 in the context of immune support and larazotide in relation to gut barrier health. Gut health has been a recurring theme throughout Nicole’s health journey. She describes how periods of intense stress seemed to coincide with worsening inflammation and digestive health, reinforcing her belief that the body must be viewed as an interconnected system. The larger message is not that everyone needs the same medication, peptide, diet, or intervention. Personalized medicine means selecting tools according to the individual. What Is EBO2? McCall and Nicole also discuss EBO2, short for extracorporeal blood oxygenation and ozonation. Nicole explains that PUR-FORM offers EBO2 and trains other clinics in the protocol. The procedure involves circulating blood outside the body through a system involving filtration, oxygen, and ozone before returning it to the patient. Nicole shares that EBO2 has been part of her own health strategy outside of pregnancy. The topic is also deeply personal for McCall, who shares that she underwent EBO2 while struggling significantly with long COVID and credits the treatment as an important turning point in her own recovery. Their experiences lead to a broader conversation about the evolving field of regenerative medicine and the need to evaluate advanced therapies based on each patient’s individual circumstances. From Patient to Entrepreneur Nicole’s difficult health experiences eventually became part of her professional mission. She remembers working incredibly hard on her health while feeling as though her body simply would not respond. Years of inflammation, fatigue, weight struggles, and frustration also contributed to an unhealthy relationship with food at different points in her journey. Today, Nicole is running multiple businesses while preparing to become a mother. Her transformation inspired a commitment: if she could better understand her own health, she wanted to help other people avoid some of the confusion and frustration she experienced. That mission became part of the work behind PUR-FORM. Regenerative Medicine at PUR-FORM PUR-FORM is a comprehensive health optimization clinic based in Boca Raton, Florida. Nicole discusses working with orthopedic surgeon Dr. Joseph Purita and her family to expand access to integrative and regenerative therapies. Services discussed during the episode include:
Nicole also shares an important new development: PUR-FORM recently launched a MUSE cell offering as part of its regenerative medicine services. She | |||
| 90: Too Much Iron Can Be Just as Dangerous as Too Little – The Hidden Condition Behind Fatigue, Heart Disease, and Thyroid Problems with Dr. Christy Sutton | 16 Jul 2026 | 00:34:41 | |
What if one of the most overlooked causes of fatigue, joint pain, thyroid dysfunction, and even heart disease wasn't iron deficiency, but iron overload? In this episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness, McCall McPherson welcomes Christy Sutton, chiropractor, functional medicine clinician, educator, and author of The Iron Curse. Inspired by her husband's diagnosis with hereditary hemochromatosis, Dr. Sutton has dedicated her work to helping patients recognize and address iron overload before it leads to serious long-term health complications. Together, McCall and Dr. Sutton explore why hereditary hemochromatosis is far more common than many people realize, why millions of people may unknowingly carry high-risk genes, and how excess iron can silently damage the liver, heart, pancreas, brain, thyroid, and other organs. McCall also shares her own personal experience with iron overload, walking through her lab work live during the episode while Dr. Sutton explains what the results reveal and why early detection can make all the difference. Whether you're experiencing unexplained fatigue, elevated ferritin, thyroid issues, or have a family history of iron overload, this episode offers practical guidance on testing, treatment, and understanding one of the most underdiagnosed conditions in modern medicine.
🔑 Key Topics Covered
🩸 Iron Overload Is More Common Than Most People Think When most people think about iron, they think about deficiency. But according to Dr. Sutton, hereditary hemochromatosis affects far more people than many realize, with a significant portion of the population carrying one or more HFE gene variants that can increase iron absorption. Because the body has very limited ways to eliminate excess iron, levels can gradually increase over decades, especially after menstruation ends or blood loss decreases.
🧬 Why Excess Iron Can Damage the Entire Body Iron is essential for life, but too much can become harmful. Dr. Sutton explains that excess iron contributes to oxidative stress, allowing iron to accumulate within tissues where it may damage organs over time. Areas commonly affected include:
Because this process develops slowly, many people don't recognize the problem until significant health issues appear.
👩 Why Women Often Don't Develop Symptoms Until Midlife Premenopausal women naturally lose iron through monthly menstrual cycles. As a result, many women remain protected from iron accumulation for years. However, after menopause, hysterectomy, uterine ablation, or other situations that reduce menstrual blood loss, iron levels may begin rising much more rapidly. McCall shares her own experience of seeing her iron markers increase after uterine ablation, creating an opportunity to discuss how these laboratory changes may appear before significant symptoms develop.
🩺 Looking Beyond a Single Lab Value One of the most educational moments of the episode comes when Dr. Sutton reviews McCall's laboratory results in real time. She explains why evaluating multiple markers together provides a more complete picture, including:
Because ferritin can rise with both inflammation and excess iron, understanding the broader laboratory context becomes essential when determining the underlying cause.
❤️ Iron Overload and Heart Health The discussion also explores the relationship between excess iron and cardiovascular health. According to Dr. Sutton, elevated iron may contribute to oxidative stress that damages blood vessels and promotes inflammation. Over time, this process may play a role in plaque formation and increase cardiovascular risk in susceptible individuals. McCall also shares the personal story of losing her brother unexpectedly to a heart attack, highlighting why this topic carries such deep personal significance for her family.
💉 Treatment Starts by Reducing Iron The primary treatment for hereditary hemochromatosis involves removing excess iron through therapeutic phlebotomy or blood donation when medically appropriate. By removing blood, the body uses stored iron to produce new red blood cells, gradually lowering overall iron stores. Dr. Sutton explains that treatment plans should always be individualized and that blood removal is not appropriate for everyone.
🥩 Everyday Habits That Influence Iron Levels In addition to therapeutic blood removal, lifestyle choices can influence iron absorption. Dr. Sutton discusses strategies such as:
She also discusses compounds such as curcumin, green tea extract, quercetin, and alpha-lipoic acid that are being studied for their role in supporting healthy iron regulation.
🌟 Final Takeaway Iron deficiency deserves attention, but so does iron overload. Because hereditary hemochromatosis often develops silently over many years, understanding your genetics, reviewing your laboratory markers, and paying attention to family history may help identify problems before long-term complications develop. As Dr. Sutton explains throughout this conversation, awareness is one of the most powerful tools we have. Early testing, thoughtful interpretation of laboratory results, and individualized treatment can help protect long-term health while preventing unnecessary organ damage.
👤 About the Guest Christy Sutton is a chiropractor, functional medicine clinician, educator, and author specializing in genetics, iron metabolism, and chronic disease prevention. Inspired by her husband's diagnosis with hereditary hemochromatosis, she developed educational resources to help patients and practitioners better understand iron overload, genetic risk factors, and root-cause approaches to long-term health.
🔗 Resources & Links 📖 The Iron Curse by Dr. Christy Sutton 🎓 The Iron Curse Educational Workshop 🌐 Website: 📸 Instagram: 🎵 TikTok: 💼 LinkedIn: 📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness 💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 📺 YouTube: | |||
| 89: Autoimmune Disease Is Rising Faster Than Ever – The Root Causes Conventional Medicine Still Misses with Dr. Amy Myers | 09 Jul 2026 | 00:53:03 | |
What if autoimmune disease isn't something you're destined to live with forever, but a signal that your body needs help addressing deeper root causes? In this episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness, McCall McPherson welcomes longtime mentor, friend, and functional medicine pioneer Amy Myers. A two-time New York Times bestselling author and internationally recognized functional medicine physician, Dr. Myers shares her personal journey from being diagnosed with Graves' disease during medical school to becoming one of the leading voices in autoimmune and thyroid health. Together, they explore why autoimmune diseases continue to rise, why women are disproportionately affected, and why many patients spend years searching for answers before receiving a diagnosis. Dr. Myers explains the role of gut health, environmental toxins, infections, stress, trauma, and nutrition in autoimmune disease while sharing practical strategies for supporting immune health and addressing root causes. She also introduces the newly revised edition of The Autoimmune Solution, featuring updated research and expanded guidance for today's changing health landscape. Whether you're living with Hashimoto's, Graves' disease, or another autoimmune condition, this conversation offers hope, practical tools, and a reminder that healing begins by understanding the "why" behind your symptoms. 🔑 Key Topics Covered
🌿 From Graves' Disease to Functional Medicine Dr. Myers' journey into functional medicine began with her own health crisis. While attending medical school, she developed severe anxiety, tremors, insomnia, weight loss, and other symptoms that were initially dismissed as stress. After insisting on additional testing, she was diagnosed with Graves' disease. Although conventional treatment successfully managed her thyroid, she realized no one had addressed why her immune system attacked her thyroid in the first place. That experience ultimately led her to discover functional medicine and dedicate her career to helping patients identify and address the root causes of autoimmune disease. 🧬 Why Autoimmune Disease Is Becoming More Common According to Dr. Myers, autoimmune disease isn't simply being diagnosed more often. She believes multiple environmental factors are contributing to a true increase in autoimmune conditions. Among the biggest contributors discussed are:
She explains that while genetics influence susceptibility, environmental exposures often determine whether those genes become active. 👩 Why Women Are More Commonly Affected Women account for the majority of autoimmune diagnoses. Dr. Myers explains that significant hormonal transitions often coincide with the development or worsening of autoimmune disease. Common life stages include:
These hormonal shifts can influence immune regulation and may contribute to the onset of autoimmune symptoms in genetically susceptible individuals. ⏳ Autoimmunity Often Begins Years Before Diagnosis One of the most important messages in this episode is that autoimmune disease develops long before many people receive a diagnosis. Dr. Myers explains that antibodies may be present for years before symptoms become severe enough to trigger additional testing. During this time, people often experience symptoms such as:
Unfortunately, these symptoms are frequently attributed to stress, aging, or hormonal changes rather than early autoimmune disease. 🩺 The Four Pillars of Autoimmune Healing Dr. Myers describes a comprehensive approach that focuses on identifying and addressing the underlying drivers of immune dysfunction. Her four pillars include: Heal the Gut Supporting digestion and restoring the intestinal barrier through nutrition, digestive support, probiotics, and treatment of underlying gut infections. Improve Nutrition Removing inflammatory foods while emphasizing nutrient-dense whole foods that support immune balance. Reduce Toxic Burden Minimizing exposure to environmental toxins while supporting the body's natural detoxification pathways through hydration, sweating, regular bowel movements, and targeted nutritional support. Address Hidden Triggers Identifying chronic infections, reducing stress, and addressing unresolved trauma that may contribute to persistent immune activation. Together, these pillars form the foundation of her functional medicine approach to autoimmune health. 🦠 Why Gut Health Comes First Dr. Myers refers to the gut as "the gateway to health." She explains that many people with autoimmune disease also experience:
Before attempting to rebuild the microbiome, she emphasizes identifying and treating these underlying issues while also removing inflammatory foods that may continue to drive immune dysfunction. 🧪 Monitoring Thyroid Antibodies For thyroid patients, Dr. Myers emphasizes that antibody testing provides valuable information beyond standard thyroid hormone levels. She recommends:
She also notes that patients who have undergone thyroid ablation or thyroid surgery may still produce thyroid antibodies and should continue monitoring when appropriate.
🌟 Final Takeaway Autoimmune disease is not simply a matter of bad luck or genetics. As Dr. Myers explains, our environment, nutrition, gut health, stress, infections, and daily habits all influence how our immune system functions. While every autoimmune journey is unique, understanding and addressing these root causes can create meaningful opportunities for healing and improved quality of life. Most importantly, a diagnosis doesn't have to mean giving up hope. With the right approach, many people can reduce inflammation, improve symptoms, and support long-term immune health. 👤 About the Guest Amy Myers is a physician, certified functional medicine practitioner, founder of Amy Myers MD®, and a two-time New York Times bestselling author. After overcoming her own battle with Graves' disease, she became a leading voice in autoimmune and thyroid health, helping thousands of people address root causes through functional medicine. She is the author of The Autoimmune Solution, The Thyroid Connection, and The Autoimmune Solution Cookbook. 🔗 Resources & Links 🌐 Official Website: 🌐 Personal Website: 📺 YouTube: 📚 Books: Dr. Amy Myers Amazon Author Page 🎙️ Podcast: Take Back Your Health 🎁 Free Gift for MTW Listeners: Amy Myers MD / McCall Resource Page 📲 Follow McCall McPherson &... | |||
| 88: Your Home Could Be Affecting Your Health More Than You Realize – The Hidden Impact of Air, Water, and Everyday Toxins with Helen Christoni | 02 Jul 2026 | 00:34:10 | |
What if one of the most powerful ways to support your thyroid, hormones, gut, and long-term health isn't another supplement or medication, but improving the air you breathe and the water you use every day? In this episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness, McCall McPherson welcomes Helen Christoni, Senior Vice President of Ideal Living, the parent company behind AirDoctor and AquaTru. Helen shares her personal health journey, including experiencing early menopause and severe osteoporosis in her early forties, and how that experience led her to become passionate about reducing environmental toxins in the home. Together, McCall and Helen explore why clean air and clean water are foundational to health, how everyday environmental exposures contribute to toxic burden, and practical, affordable steps families can take to create a healthier home without feeling overwhelmed. 🔑 Key Topics Covered
🌿 Helen's Journey to Environmental Wellness Helen's passion for clean air and clean water grew out of her own health crisis. While working in the beauty industry, she developed severe osteoporosis and entered menopause unexpectedly in her early forties. After multiple fractures and searching for answers, she was encouraged to look beyond conventional health advice and consider the role environmental toxins might be playing in her overall health. That experience ultimately brought her back to Ideal Living, where she now focuses on educating families about simple, practical ways to reduce their everyday toxic burden. 💧 Your Water May Contain More Than You Think Many people focus on eating organic foods but rarely consider the quality of the water they drink or cook with. Helen explains that municipal water supplies can contain numerous contaminants, including naturally occurring heavy metals and chemical byproducts. One of the biggest misconceptions is that boiling water makes it safer. Instead, many contaminants become more concentrated as water evaporates during cooking, meaning foods like pasta, rice, soups, and vegetables may contain even higher concentrations than the original tap water. She also explains why reverse osmosis filtration removes a broader range of contaminants than standard carbon filters, making it one of the most comprehensive options for drinking and cooking water. 🚿 Your Shower Is Another Source of Exposure Water quality doesn't only matter when you drink it. Every shower exposes your body to chlorine, chloramine, and other contaminants through both skin absorption and inhalation. Because skin is the body's largest organ, these daily exposures may contribute to:
Helen recommends shower filtration as another simple improvement that supports healthier skin while reducing everyday chemical exposure. 🌬️ Indoor Air Quality Deserves More Attention Most people think about outdoor pollution. But according to Helen, indoor air can often be even more polluted because contaminants become trapped inside modern, energy-efficient homes. Indoor air may contain:
Since most people spend the majority of their day indoors, improving indoor air quality can significantly reduce overall environmental exposure. Helen also explains why effective air purification requires both HEPA filtration and activated carbon, since many harmful gases and VOCs cannot be captured by HEPA filters alone. 🏡 Small Changes Add Up One of the biggest messages throughout this conversation is that creating a healthier home doesn't require perfection. Helen encourages listeners to focus on simple, repeatable habits like:
Rather than trying to change everything overnight, she recommends building healthier habits one step at a time. 🌟 Final Takeaway The environment inside your home influences your health every single day. The water you drink. The air you breathe. The products you use. The choices you repeat. As Helen explains, reducing toxic burden isn't about creating fear or chasing perfection. It's about making practical improvements that support your body's natural ability to thrive. Sometimes the most powerful health interventions aren't found in a prescription bottle. They're found in the everyday choices that quietly shape your health for years to come. 👤 About the Guest Helen Christoni is the Senior Vice President of Ideal Living, the parent company of AirDoctor and AquaTru. She is passionate about educating families on environmental wellness, helping people reduce everyday toxic exposures through cleaner air, purified water, and practical healthy-home solutions. Helen is also the co-host of the Make Time Podcast, where she shares conversations focused on wellness, longevity, and intentional living. 🔗 Resources & Links 🌐 LinkedIn: Helen Christoni LinkedIn 📸 Instagram: Helen Christoni Instagram 🎙️ Podcast: Make Time Podcast with Emma and Helen 💧 Check Your Local Water Quality: 🌬️ Learn About Air Quality & Why AQI Matters: Why Knowing Your AQI Is Essential in Today's Wildfire Era 📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness 💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel 📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa | |||
| 87: Success Is Built One Step at a Time – The Untold Story Behind Modern Thyroid Clinic with Melissa Afflerbach | 25 Jun 2026 | 00:29:08 | |
What does it really take to build a thriving business while navigating personal loss, single motherhood, medical challenges, and starting over from scratch? In this special episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness, McCall McPherson steps away from her usual role as interviewer as she's joined by her longtime friend and Modern Thyroid Clinic's Weight Loss Program Director, Melissa Afflerbach. Together, they share the deeply personal story behind the creation of Modern Thyroid Clinic and the challenges, setbacks, and pivotal moments that transformed a tiny one-room practice into one of the nation's leading virtual thyroid clinics. McCall opens up about building a business while navigating divorce, raising two young daughters, advocating for her medically complex child, and caring for patients who desperately needed answers. She reflects on the lessons she learned about resilience, entrepreneurship, leadership, and the importance of finding purpose even during life's hardest seasons. Whether you're an entrepreneur, healthcare provider, working parent, or simply facing a difficult season of life, this conversation offers an honest look at perseverance, hope, and what it truly means to build something meaningful.
🔑 Key Topics Covered
💙 Building a Practice One Patient at a Time When McCall first opened what would eventually become Modern Thyroid Clinic, there was no large medical team, no marketing department, and no polished office. Instead, there was:
She managed nearly every aspect of the business herself, from answering patient questions and reviewing lab work to scheduling appointments and completing paperwork. Every new patient felt like a gift, and each success story naturally led to another through word of mouth.
🌱 Finding Purpose During Difficult Seasons At the same time her practice was beginning to grow, McCall was facing enormous challenges in her personal life. She shares openly about:
Throughout these experiences, one thing continued to motivate her: Helping patients regain their health. She explains that finding purpose in changing people's lives became the fuel that carried her through some of life's darkest moments.
🚀 Growing Without Traditional Marketing One of the most surprising parts of McCall's story is how Modern Thyroid Clinic expanded almost entirely through patient referrals. As patients experienced meaningful improvements in their thyroid health, they naturally shared their experiences with friends and family. That trust became the foundation for sustainable growth and eventually helped transform a small local practice into a nationally recognized virtual clinic.
🌸 Rebuilding After Rock Bottom Following her divorce, McCall found herself starting over. She moved into a small apartment with her daughters and began rebuilding every aspect of her life. Rather than seeing this season only as loss, she began asking herself important questions:
She encourages listeners to become incredibly specific when defining their vision because clarity often becomes the blueprint for future success.
🤝 The Power of Community and Mentorship As Modern Thyroid Clinic continued growing, opportunities began opening through relationships with people who believed in McCall's vision. She reflects on how joining Austin's wellness community connected her with mentors and collaborators who helped elevate her business while encouraging her to do the same for others. Her advice is simple: As your success grows, bring other people with you. Supporting others creates stronger communities and multiplies positive impact.
💻 How COVID Changed Everything Like many healthcare practices, Modern Thyroid Clinic experienced significant changes during the COVID-19 pandemic. The practice rapidly transitioned from mostly in-person visits to a fully virtual model, allowing patients across the country to access specialized thyroid care. While this period brought tremendous personal challenges, it also created opportunities for innovation and ultimately laid the foundation for the clinic's national expansion.
🌿 Success Requires Both Hustle and Rest One of the most valuable lessons McCall shares is that sustainable success isn't built through constant hustle. Instead, she describes entrepreneurship as a series of seasons. Some seasons require intense focus, long hours, and perseverance. Other seasons require intentional rest, recovery, and reflection. Learning when to push forward and when to step back has become one of the most important leadership lessons she's learned throughout her journey.
🌟 Final Takeaway Modern Thyroid Clinic didn't become what it is today overnight. It was built one patient... one challenge... one difficult season... and one small step at a time. McCall's story is a reminder that success is rarely a straight line. Life will bring setbacks. Plans will change. Unexpected challenges will arise. But purpose, resilience, community, and the willingness to keep moving forward can create opportunities that once seemed impossible. If you're in a season of rebuilding, this episode offers an encouraging reminder: Your current circumstances do not define your future. Sometimes the most meaningful journeys begin with nothing more than the courage to take the very next step.
👤 About the Guest Melissa Afflerbach is the Weight Loss Program Director at Modern Thyroid Clinic and has more than 17 years of experience designing transformational wellness programs, luxury retreats, and community-centered health initiatives. She specializes in program development, strategic leadership, and creating meaningful experiences that empower lasting personal growth.
🔗 Resources & Links 🌐 Melissa Afflerbach: Melissa Afflerbach | Modern Thyroid Clinic 📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness 💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel 📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa | |||
| 86: More Treatments Do Not Mean Better Results - The New Rules for Natural Looking Facial Rejuvenation with Dr. Prem Tripathi | 18 Jun 2026 | 00:41:56 | |
What if the secret to looking younger isn't doing more treatments, but choosing the right treatments at the right time? In this episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness, McCall McPherson sits down with Prem Tripathi, double board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon and founder of Bay Hills Plastic Surgery, to discuss the rapidly evolving world of aesthetics. From filler migration and fat grafting to facelifts, lasers, skincare, and social media beauty trends, Dr. Tripathi shares his expert perspective on what works, what doesn't, and how to make informed decisions when it comes to facial rejuvenation. Together, they explore the importance of choosing qualified providers, the growing shift toward natural-looking results, and why long-term planning matters more than chasing quick fixes. Whether you're considering your first cosmetic procedure or simply want healthier, younger-looking skin, this conversation is packed with practical insights and expert advice. 🔑 Key Topics Covered
👤 About the Guest Prem Tripathi is a double board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon and the founder of Bay Hills Plastic Surgery in the San Francisco Bay Area. He specializes in facial rejuvenation, eyelid surgery, facial fat grafting, skin resurfacing, and natural-looking aesthetic procedures. Through a combination of surgical expertise, advanced technology, and evidence-based skincare, Dr. Tripathi helps patients achieve refreshed, natural results while maintaining their unique appearance. 🔗 Resources & Links 🌐 About Dr. Tripathi: 💼 LinkedIn: 📸 Instagram: 📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness 💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel 📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa | |||
| 85: Your Home Could Be Making You Sick – The Hidden Mold Exposure Keeping You Tired, Inflamed, and Stuck with Dr. Philip Oubre | 11 Jun 2026 | 00:45:42 | |
What if the reason you're still struggling with fatigue, brain fog, inflammation, gut issues, or hormone imbalances isn't because your treatment isn't working—but because you're being exposed to mold every single day? In this episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness, McCall McPherson sits down with Philip Oubre to explore one of the most overlooked drivers of chronic illness: mold exposure. Drawing from years of clinical experience treating complex chronic conditions, Dr. Oubre explains why mold is often missed, how it disrupts nearly every system in the body, and why many patients continue struggling despite doing "all the right things." Together, they discuss mold's impact on thyroid health, gut function, hormones, brain health, autoimmune conditions, and chronic inflammation. Dr. Oubre also shares practical guidance on identifying mold exposure, testing your home, understanding common symptoms, and supporting recovery through a gut-first treatment approach. If you've been told your labs are normal but still don't feel like yourself, this conversation may help uncover a missing piece of the puzzle. 🔑 Key Topics Covered
🏠 Mold Is Often the Missing Piece One of the most powerful insights from this conversation is that mold can affect nearly every system in the body, creating symptoms that often seem unrelated. Dr. Oubre explains that many of the patients who eventually discover mold exposure have already seen multiple doctors and completed extensive testing without finding answers. Common symptoms include:
Because mold affects so many biological systems simultaneously, it can be difficult to recognize unless providers specifically know what to look for. 🦋 Mold and Thyroid Health For thyroid patients, mold can become a major obstacle to recovery. Dr. Oubre explains that mold has the ability to disrupt:
This is one reason some patients continue struggling despite optimized thyroid treatment. Even when:
Patients may still feel unwell if they remain exposed to mold in their environment. 🧠 Why Mold Often Causes Brain Fog and Fatigue According to Dr. Oubre, the most common symptoms he sees are: 👉 Brain fog 👉 Fatigue that feels out of proportion Patients frequently describe:
These symptoms often appear gradually, making them easy to dismiss as aging, stress, or burnout. However, Dr. Oubre emphasizes that severe changes in energy and cognition should always prompt deeper investigation. 🏡 Why New Homes Are Not Always Safer One of the most surprising parts of the discussion involves newer homes. Many people assume: 👉 New house = no mold Unfortunately, that isn't always true. Modern homes are often:
While these features reduce energy costs, they can also allow mold toxins to become concentrated indoors. Dr. Oubre explains that older homes often "breathe" more naturally, while newer homes may trap contaminants inside for extended periods. 👃 Mold Doesn't Always Smell A major misconception discussed during the episode: 👉 Mold does not always smell musty. In fact, many significant mold problems remain completely odorless. Dr. Oubre shares the story of hidden mold behind a window in his own home that remained undetected for years despite extensive investigations. The lesson: You cannot rely on smell alone to determine whether mold is present. 🦠 The Gut Connection One of the most fascinating aspects of the conversation centers on mold's impact on gut health. Dr. Oubre describes mold as a major disruptor of the microbiome. Potential consequences include:
He explains that mold exposure often creates an environment where harmful microbes thrive while beneficial bacteria decline. Over time, this can contribute to:
👀 The VCS Test: A Simple Screening Tool One low-cost tool discussed during the episode is the Visual Contrast Sensitivity (VCS) Test. The test evaluates how well the eyes distinguish subtle differences in contrast. Because mold can disrupt mitochondrial function and nervous system performance, some individuals with mold exposure demonstrate measurable changes on this assessment. Dr. Oubre describes it as an affordable screening option that may help identify people who should investigate mold exposure further. 🏠 Why Home Testing Matters One of Dr. Oubre's strongest recommendations: 👉 Test the home first. Rather than focusing solely on mold testing for the person, he believes identifying environmental exposure is often more valuable. His preferred method is an ERMI-style dust test that analyzes household dust for mold DNA. This approach can help identify:
The goal is not to achieve a completely mold-free environment, but rather to create a healthy space where the body can recover. 🌱 Why Gut Healing Comes Before Detox One of the most important treatment insights shared in this episode is that mold recovery is not primarily about detoxification. According to Dr. Oubre: 👉 The gut must be rebuilt first. He explains that many people focus immediately on:
While these tools can be helpful, true recovery requires:
When the gut improves, the body's own detoxification systems become much more effective. 🌟 Final Takeaway Mold exposure is often invisible, difficult to detect, and frequently overlooked. Yet it can profoundly impact:
As Dr. Oubre explains throughout this conversation, many people continue searching for answers because they're treating symptoms without addressing an ongoing environmental exposure. If you've been doing everything right but still don't feel better, it may be worth asking a simple question: 👉 Could your environment be part of the problem? 👤 About the Guest Philip Oubre is a physician focused on identifying and addressing the root causes of chronic disease. He has extensive experience helping patients navigate complex conditions involving mold exposure, environmental illness, gut dysfunction, hormones, inflammation, and metabolic health. 🔗 Resources & Links 💼 LinkedIn: Philip Oubre, MD LinkedIn 🌐 Wellness Products & Resources:
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| 84: You Can Look Fine and Still Be Struggling – Real Stories of Thyroid Healing, Hope, and Finding the Right Support | 04 Jun 2026 | 00:29:06 | |
What if the reason you still feel exhausted, overwhelmed, and unlike yourself isn't because you're lazy, aging, or doing something wrong—but because no one has truly listened to your story? In this special Modern Thyroid and Wellness VIP Retreat episode, McCall McPherson and the Modern Thyroid Clinic team sit down with three inspiring women from their founding VIP cohort: Jennifer, Allison, and Natalie. Each shares her personal journey through thyroid dysfunction, chronic fatigue, medical frustration, and ultimately finding hope through personalized, root-cause care. Their stories may be different, but the themes are remarkably similar: years of feeling unheard, being told everything looked "normal," and wondering if life would ever feel good again. This conversation is a powerful reminder that healing is possible—and that no woman should have to navigate it alone. 🔑 Key Topics Covered
💛 Jennifer's Story: Life After Thyroid Cancer Jennifer spent nearly twenty years trying to understand why she didn't feel well. Following thyroid cancer and a complete thyroidectomy, she found herself dependent on medication for all thyroid function. Yet despite years of appointments and treatment, she continued struggling with symptoms and began wondering whether feeling unwell would simply be her reality forever. After discovering Modern Thyroid Clinic, Jennifer joined the VIP program hoping to finally find answers. What happened next surprised her. Within a short period after beginning treatment adjustments, she noticed dramatic improvements in her energy and overall wellbeing. For the first time in years, she felt like she was moving forward rather than continuing to decline. One of the most emotional aspects of Jennifer's story is how thyroid dysfunction impacted her family life. As a mother of an energetic young son, she often found herself needing daily naps and having little energy left after work. Today, she describes feeling significantly better and grateful to have more to give to the people she loves most. 🩺 The Difference Between Treatment and True Care Jennifer emphasizes that one of the most meaningful parts of her experience wasn't just the medical care—it was the compassion. Like many women, she spent years feeling like a number in the healthcare system. Appointments often felt rushed. Questions went unanswered. Symptoms were minimized. What stood out most about the VIP program was feeling genuinely cared for. She describes the Modern Thyroid Clinic team as passionate, invested, and deeply committed to helping patients heal. For Jennifer, that level of support became just as transformative as the treatment itself. 🌟 Allison's Story: Tired of Being Tired Allison's story begins with a phrase that many women instantly recognize: "I was tired of being tired." On the outside, she appeared successful. She was advancing professionally, supporting her family, and meeting responsibilities. But internally, she knew something wasn't right. She constantly felt exhausted and struggled to understand why she couldn't feel the way she believed she should. After hearing McCall on a podcast and following her educational content online, Allison finally decided to take action and join the VIP program. What she found was more than symptom relief. She found understanding. 📚 Education Creates Empowerment One of the biggest transformations for Allison wasn't simply feeling better physically. It was gaining knowledge. Rather than receiving generic treatment recommendations, she learned:
This education helped her feel empowered instead of helpless. She describes the process as finally understanding the "why" behind her symptoms rather than simply being handed another prescription. That clarity gave her confidence and direction. 🤝 Why Feeling Heard Matters Throughout her interview, Allison repeatedly returns to one central theme: Being heard. She explains that appointments within the VIP program felt fundamentally different because providers asked not only about labs—but about her life. Questions like:
made a profound difference. For many women with thyroid conditions, this type of partnership is often missing from traditional healthcare experiences. And for Allison, it became one of the most meaningful aspects of her journey. 🎉 Finding Community at the VIP Retreat One of Allison's favorite parts of the retreat was connecting with women from different generations and life stages. Although each participant had unique experiences, they shared many common struggles. Together they:
What began as a group of strangers quickly became a supportive community. And for many participants, that connection was healing in itself. 🌿 Natalie's Story: Refusing to Accept Survival Mode Natalie entered the program shortly before her 60th birthday. After nearly twenty years of searching for answers, she found herself exhausted, frustrated, and losing hope. Despite working with numerous providers over the years—including endocrinologists, functional medicine practitioners, and holistic clinicians—she still felt terrible. The message she often received was familiar: "Your labs look great." Yet she was:
Deep down, she knew there had to be more. ✨ Choosing a Different Future Natalie decided she didn't want the next chapter of her life to look like the previous one. She wanted:
Joining the VIP program felt like an investment in her future. And within months, she began noticing dramatic changes. For the first time, she could tackle large projects without crashing halfway through the day. Instead of spending afternoons in bed recovering, she found herself energized and productive. She describes going from a "2" to a "7" in only six months. 💡 Personalized Care Changes Everything Natalie's story highlights a powerful truth: Many women don't need more generic advice. They need personalized care. Rather than fitting her into a predetermined box, the Modern Thyroid Clinic team examined her unique situation, identified overlooked issues, and developed an individualized plan. That level of personalization allowed her to make meaningful progress after years of frustration. 🌸 The Retreat Experience: More Than a Health Program All three women describe the VIP Retreat as transformative. While they expected to learn about health, they discovered something deeper. They found:
Participants repeatedly describe the retreat as a safe space where women could openly discuss struggles, celebrate victories, and feel understood. The experience reinforced an important lesson: Healing is not just physical. It is emotional, mental, spiritual, and relational. 🌱 Final Takeaway The stories shared in this episode are powerful because they remind us that many women are quietly struggling. They may look healthy. They may appear successful. They may be doing everything they're supposed to do. And yet, they can still feel exhausted, overwhelmed, and unwell. Jennifer, Allison, and Natalie each demonstrate what becomes possible when women receive:
Their journeys remind us that healing is possible, even after years of frustration. And perhaps most importantly: 👉 You are not lazy. 👉 You are not imagining your symptoms. 👉 You... | |||
| 83: You’re Not Lazy, Broken, or Alone – Real Thyroid Healing Stories from the Modern Thyroid Clinic VIP Retreat | 28 May 2026 | 00:27:05 | |
What happens when women who have spent years feeling dismissed, exhausted, and unheard finally find answers—and community? In this special Modern Thyroid and Wellness VIP Retreat episode, McCall McPherson and the Modern Thyroid Clinic team sit down with several women from the founding VIP cohort to share their deeply personal thyroid healing journeys. These are not celebrity stories or perfectly polished transformations. These are real women:
And perhaps most importantly: 👉 Wondering if they would ever truly feel like themselves again. This episode highlights the emotional, physical, and mental shifts that can happen when women finally receive:
The Common Theme: “My Labs Were Normal” One of the most powerful patterns throughout this episode is how many women shared the same frustrating experience: 👉 Being told they were “fine” when they clearly didn’t feel fine. Many described:
But appointment after appointment ended with: 👉 “Your labs look normal.” For many of these women, that message slowly created:
Because when you feel awful but keep hearing “everything is okay,” you start questioning yourself. This episode becomes a powerful reminder that: 👉 Symptoms matter. 👉 Your experience matters. 👉 Feeling unwell is not something you should simply “learn to live with.”
Karen’s Story: From Surviving to Thriving Karen shares how hypothyroidism slowly began impacting every aspect of her life. She describes:
After discovering she had Hashimoto’s, she was essentially told: 👉 “You just live with it.” But deep down, she knew there had to be more. After finding McCall McPherson online, Karen began exploring a more comprehensive thyroid approach through Modern Thyroid Clinic’s VIP program. What Changed Karen describes improvements in:
But one of the most emotional parts of her story is realizing: 👉 When you help a woman heal, it impacts her entire family. She explains how feeling better changed:
This reflects something many women experience: 👉 Thyroid dysfunction doesn’t just affect one person—it affects every relationship connected to them.
Healing Is Not Just Physical Karen’s story also highlights another critical point: 👉 Healing is emotional. During the program, she experienced:
Instead of simply focusing on medications and labs, the VIP team helped support:
This deeper level of care helped her realize: 👉 Healing isn’t just about thyroid medication. 👉 It’s about supporting the whole person.
Sally’s Story: “I Thought This Was Just Life” Sally’s story will resonate deeply with many women living with chronic thyroid symptoms. For years, she went from doctor to doctor hearing: 👉 “Your labs are normal.” Meanwhile, she was:
She describes coming home each evening and collapsing on the couch because she had nothing left physically or emotionally. The Emotional Weight One of the most heartbreaking parts of Sally’s story is hearing her explain: 👉 She wanted to give more to her children—but physically couldn’t. This is something many women silently carry:
Not because they don’t care. But because their bodies are running on empty.
The Power of Finally Feeling Seen One of the most impactful aspects of Sally’s experience was finally having someone:
She repeatedly emphasizes how important it was to feel: 👉 Heard. 👉 Supported. 👉 Believed. And that emotional support became just as healing as the medical interventions themselves.
Energy Changes Everything As Sally progressed through the VIP program, one of the biggest shifts was: 👉 Energy. She describes going from:
That transformation may sound simple—but for people living with chronic thyroid dysfunction: 👉 Energy changes everything. It impacts:
The Retreat Became a Sisterhood One of the most beautiful themes throughout this episode is the unexpected sense of community created during the retreat. Sally describes it as: 👉 A sisterhood. For many women, this was the first time they:
There was healing simply in hearing: 👉 “Me too.” The retreat offered:
And many women realized: 👉 They had spent years taking care of everyone else while neglecting themselves.
Susan’s Story: Rebuilding Energy & Purpose Susan shares how she reached a point where:
She jokingly describes living in: 👉 “Pajama town.” But underneath the humor was a deeper truth: 👉 She had lost vitality. After joining Modern Thyroid Clinic’s VIP program, she began experiencing gradual but meaningful improvements in:
A Half Marathon Became a Symbol of Healing One of the most inspiring moments in the episode is when Susan shares that she completed a half marathon after previously struggling just to get through daily life. It wasn’t about athletic performance. It represented:
For many listeners, this moment becomes symbolic of something bigger: 👉 Progress can happen even after years of feeling stuck.
Vivian’s Story: Finding Hope Again Vivian entered the VIP program already receiving thyroid care but wanted:
One of her biggest breakthroughs came from: 👉 Fine-tuning her thyroid medication timing and dosing. Even small adjustments created:
Her story highlights something important: 👉 Sometimes healing isn’t about massive change. 👉 Sometimes it’s about precision and personalization.
Mind-Body Healing Matters Too One of Vivian’s biggest takeaways from the retreat was learning:
She explains that she arrived expecting: 👉 “A fun girls trip.” But left with: 👉 A deeper understanding of herself and her body. This reflects one of the most important themes of the episode: 👉 Thyroid healing is not only biochemical. 👉 It’s nervous-system based too.
Why Community Changes Healing Perhaps the most powerful takeaway from the entire episode is this: 👉 Healing happens faster when women stop feeling alone. Throughout the retreat, participants repeatedly mention:
Many had spent years:
And for the first time: 👉 They felt validated. That emotional shift alone can be transformative.
The... | |||
| 82: GLP-1s Beyond Weight Loss – The Future of Women’s Health, Fertility, Hormones, and Longevity | SXSW Panel Discussion Featuring McCall McPherson, Natalie Crawford, Jessica Shepherd & Shannon Ritchey | 21 May 2026 | 01:14:20 | |
What if GLP-1 medications are not just changing weight loss—but completely transforming the future of women’s health? In this special SXSW panel discussion, Shannon Ritchey moderates an eye-opening conversation with leading experts McCall McPherson, Natalie Crawford, and Jessica Shepherd about the rapidly evolving role of GLP-1 medications in fertility, thyroid health, inflammation, menopause, longevity, metabolic health, and chronic disease prevention. This conversation goes far beyond weight loss. The panel explores how GLP-1 medications may reduce systemic inflammation, improve insulin resistance, support fertility outcomes, influence hormone health during perimenopause and menopause, protect cardiovascular health, and potentially reshape the future of longevity medicine. The discussion also tackles common myths, cancer fears, muscle loss concerns, microdosing strategies, fertility safety, lifestyle foundations, and the importance of preserving muscle while using these medications. 🔑 Key Topics Covered
🧠 GLP-1s Are Not Just About Eating Less One of the strongest themes throughout the panel: 👉 GLP-1 medications are not simply making people lose weight because they eat less. According to McCall McPherson, these medications fundamentally improve:
This is especially important for women with:
The panel repeatedly emphasizes: 👉 Weight gain is often not a willpower problem—it is a metabolic and inflammatory problem. ⚡ The Emerging Power of Microdosing A major topic discussed is microdosing GLP-1s. What Is Microdosing? Using:
Rather than aggressively increasing medication doses, microdosing may help:
McCall McPherson explains that many patients experience:
…even at very low doses. 🔥 Inflammation: The Hidden Driver of Disease Throughout the panel, inflammation is described as one of the biggest underlying drivers of:
The panelists repeatedly explain that GLP-1s appear to dramatically reduce inflammation—sometimes within days. Why This Matters Reducing inflammation may influence:
This is one reason the panel believes GLP-1s may eventually become indicated for many conditions beyond obesity and diabetes. 🦋 Thyroid Disease, Autoimmunity & GLP-1s McCall McPherson shares extensive clinical observations from treating thyroid patients with GLP-1s. Key Insights Discussed
The panel also directly addresses concerns about thyroid cancer. What Current Research Shows The fear largely originated from rodent studies involving:
Current human data has not shown meaningful increased thyroid cancer risk. In fact: 👉 Some studies suggest reductions in several cancer risks while using GLP-1s. 💪 Muscle Loss, Protein & Strength Training One of the biggest concerns surrounding GLP-1s is muscle loss. The panel makes an important distinction: 👉 Muscle loss is not inherently caused by the medication itself 👉 It is often caused by under-fueling and inadequate resistance training The Real Problem Some individuals:
This creates:
The Solution According to Shannon Ritchey:
The panel strongly reinforces: 👉 Muscle is metabolic currency for women’s long-term health. 👶 Fertility, PCOS & Pregnancy Natalie Crawford discusses the growing role of GLP-1s in fertility medicine. Conditions Showing Promise
Why It Matters Insulin resistance impacts:
Reducing inflammation and improving metabolic health may dramatically improve reproductive outcomes. Important Safety Note GLP-1s are not currently recommended during pregnancy. Patients are advised to: 👉 Stop GLP-1 medications at least two months before attempting conception.
🌸 Perimenopause, Menopause & Hormonal Aging Jessica Shepherd explains how declining estrogen impacts:
The panel highlights that menopause is: 👉 A whole-body hormonal transition—not just a reproductive event. Why GLP-1s May Matter in Midlife As estrogen declines:
GLP-1s may help:
❤️ Cardiovascular Health & Longevity Another major theme: 👉 Cardiovascular disease remains the number one killer of women. The panel discusses research showing GLP-1s may:
Potential Longevity Implications Improved:
…may contribute to:
🍷 Addiction, Fatty Liver & Emerging Research The discussion also touches on newer research areas. Emerging Benefits Being Studied
The panel emphasizes: 👉 Research is still evolving, but the possibilities are significant. 🌱 Lifestyle Still Matters Most Despite enthusiasm around GLP-1s, every panelist strongly reinforces: 👉 Medication is not a replacement for lifestyle. Foundational habits remain critical:
The medications work best when paired with: 👉 Sustainable lifestyle change. 🌟 Final Takeaway This SXSW discussion makes one thing very... | |||
| 81: You’re Doing Everything Right but Still Feel Sick - The Thyroid Nutrition Mistakes Keeping Hashimoto’s Symptoms Alive with Ginny Mahar | 14 May 2026 | 00:45:44 | |
What if the reason you still feel exhausted, inflamed, and stuck despite “doing everything right” is because no one ever taught you how to truly eat for your thyroid? In this episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness, McCall McPherson sits down with Ginny Mahar, functional medicine health coach, chef, and author of the THYROID30 Cookbook, to explore the overwhelming world of thyroid nutrition and how to make healing feel realistic, sustainable, and empowering. After struggling for years with debilitating fatigue, brain fog, immune dysfunction, and weight resistance following her hypothyroidism diagnosis, Ginny discovered that food and lifestyle changes dramatically transformed her health. Now, she helps others simplify thyroid-friendly living through practical strategies, nourishing recipes, and realistic lifestyle shifts that support long-term healing. This conversation dives deep into anti-inflammatory eating, gut health, elimination diets, food fear, stress, nervous system regulation, and the importance of creating a sustainable lifestyle instead of chasing perfection. 🔑 Key Topics Covered
🧠 The Problem: “Your Labs Are Normal” One of the most relatable parts of this episode is hearing Ginny describe what so many thyroid patients experience. After being diagnosed with hypothyroidism following the birth of her son, she was told: 👉 “Your TSH is normal. Everything is fine.” But she didn’t feel fine. She struggled with:
Despite repeatedly asking for help, she continued hearing the same advice:
Eventually, she reached a breaking point and sought a more functional, root-cause approach. That’s when she finally discovered she had Hashimoto’s disease—and for the first time, someone talked to her about food, inflammation, and gut health. 🌱 Food Is Not the Only Piece—But It’s an Essential One One of the most important themes throughout this episode: 👉 Food is not the entire solution—but it is foundational Ginny explains that while healing also involved:
…the food piece created major shifts quickly. Within weeks of changing how she ate:
This became the foundation for creating Hypothyroid Chef and eventually the THYROID30 Cookbook. ⚖️ There Is No “One Perfect Thyroid Diet” One of the most refreshing parts of this conversation is the rejection of rigid food dogma. Ginny emphasizes: 👉 There is no single thyroid diet that works for everyone Instead, thyroid-friendly eating should be:
This means:
The goal is not perfection. 👉 The goal is understanding what works for your body. 🚨 The Biggest Mistake: Trying to Do Everything Perfectly According to Ginny, one of the most common mistakes people make is: 👉 Trying to overhaul everything overnight Many people:
This creates:
The Key Shift Instead of: 👉 “What’s the perfect thyroid diet?” Ask: 👉 “What small, sustainable step can I take right now?” 🧘♀️ Healing Requires Nervous System Safety One of the most powerful points in this episode is that healing is not just about food. It’s also about:
Ginny explains that constantly fearing food can keep the body in:
And that stress itself can worsen inflammation and symptoms. Important Reminder 👉 It’s not just about the food you eat 👉 It’s also about the thoughts you think about the food you eat 🍞 Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free & Elimination Diets The episode also breaks down practical starting points for thyroid nutrition. Common Starting Approach Ginny often begins with:
For some people, additional elimination approaches may help:
Important Perspective These diets are not meant to become lifelong punishment. 👉 They are temporary tools used to:
The ultimate goal is personalization and flexibility. 🔬 Learning Your Own Food Triggers One of the most empowering concepts discussed is learning how to interpret your body’s feedback. Food reactions are not always digestive. They may show up as:
This is why structured elimination and reintroduction phases matter. Key Takeaway 👉 Your body gives feedback constantly 👉 Learning to recognize it creates long-term empowerment 🍳 Why Cooking at Home Changes Everything Ginny shares one of the biggest lessons from her culinary medicine training: 👉 The more you cook at home, the healthier you become Research consistently shows that home cooking:
This doesn’t mean meals need to be complicated. Simple Foundations Matter Most Focus meals around:
🥗 Simple Meal Prep Strategies for Real Life Many women feel overwhelmed by meal prep, especially while balancing:
Ginny shares practical approaches instead of perfectionistic systems. Some Examples
Key Insight 👉 Simplicity creates sustainability 🤝 Why Community Matters One of the most overlooked parts of healing: 👉 Support Ginny emphasizes how important it is to:
Healing becomes easier when:
🌱 Final Takeaway This episode is a powerful reminder that thyroid healing is not about:
It’s about:
👉 Healing happens through consistency—not perfection. 👤 About the Guest Ginny Mahar is a Functional Medicine Health Coach, chef, and founder of Hypothyroid Chef. After her own Hashimoto’s diagnosis, she created practical thyroid-friendly resources to... | |||
| 80: What I Actually Do for My Health – My Real Routine, Supplements, Treatments & Truth Behind the Scenes with McCall McPherson | 07 May 2026 | 00:30:49 | |
What if you could see exactly what a thyroid expert actually does for her own health—no filters, no perfection, just real life? In this solo Ask Me Anything episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness, McCall McPherson opens up in a way she never has before—sharing her personal wellness routine, supplements, medications, beauty treatments, and the honest reality behind maintaining health during a difficult season of life. From navigating grief and mental health challenges to optimizing energy, hormones, and inflammation, this episode offers a raw and unfiltered look at what it really takes to stay well—especially when life isn’t easy. 🔑 Key Topics Covered
🧠 Real Talk: Health Isn’t Always Linear This episode starts with something rarely talked about in the health space: 👉 Even experts struggle McCall openly shares that she’s been in a challenging season—grieving the loss of her brother, navigating mental health struggles, and not feeling like she’s operating at her best. Why This Matters Health isn’t about perfection. Even when you:
👉 Life can still impact your ability to show up fully This episode is a reminder that health is dynamic—not static. 💉 Peptides, Recovery & Inflammation Support McCall shares several peptides she’s currently using:
These are used strategically to:
👉 The key takeaway: targeted tools can support the body—but they don’t replace the fundamentals ❤️ Why Heart Health Is Now a Priority After the unexpected loss of her brother due to a heart attack—with no obvious risk factors—McCall is taking a proactive approach to cardiovascular health. What She’s Doing
Key Insight 👉 Even “low-risk” individuals can benefit from deeper screening and prevention This reflects a broader shift in medicine: 👉 Moving from reactive care to proactive health optimization 🍽️ Diet & Nutrition for Thyroid Health When she’s at her best, McCall focuses on:
Real-Life Reality She also acknowledges: 👉 She’s not always consistent And that’s okay. The takeaway: 👉 Consistency matters more than perfection 💊 Her Daily Supplement Stack McCall shares her personal supplement routine, focused heavily on: Morning
Night
Additional Support
👉 The focus is clear: support energy, mitochondria, and recovery ⚡ Mitochondria: The Foundation of Energy One recurring theme: 👉 Energy is everything McCall emphasizes that her own struggles with fatigue and inflammation are deeply tied to mitochondrial function. Why It Matters Mitochondria:
When they’re not functioning well: 👉 Everything feels harder 🧴 Skincare, Aesthetics & Honest Transparency This episode goes deeper than most in discussing: At-Home Routine
In-Office Treatments
Honest Reflection McCall shares openly:
👉 This level of transparency is rare—and valuable ⚖️ Hormones & Thyroid Medication McCall explains her personal thyroid protocol:
Key Insight 👉 Thyroid care is highly individualized There is no:
🧘♀️ Wellness Routine (When She’s at Her Best) When she’s in rhythm, her routine includes:
Plus Advanced Tools
👉 These support—but don’t replace—the basics 😴 Sleep, Stress & Reality One of the most relatable parts of the episode: 👉 Sleep is still a struggle Even with:
This reinforces: 👉 Health is ongoing—not “fixed” 👩👧 Family, Resilience & Perspective McCall shares an emotional update about her daughter Rosie, who has a rare genetic condition. The Reality
The Progress
👉 A powerful reminder of resilience and perspective 🌱 Final Takeaway This episode is not about perfection. It’s about:
👉 Health is not a destination—it’s a relationship 📘 About the Host McCall McPherson is a leading thyroid expert and founder of Modern Thyroid Clinic. She specializes in root-cause thyroid care, helping patients move beyond “normal labs” to true wellness through personalized, integrative strategies. 📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness 💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel 📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa | |||
| 79: You Might Not Be Sick—You Might Be Mineral Deficient: The Hidden Root Cause of Fatigue, Brain Fog, and Hormone Imbalance with Caroline Alan | 30 Apr 2026 | 00:41:38 | |
What if your fatigue, brain fog, hormone imbalance, and inflammation aren’t separate issues—but signs that your body is missing something fundamental? In this episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness, McCall McPherson sits down with Caroline Alan, co-founder of BEAM Minerals, to uncover one of the most overlooked root causes of modern health struggles: mineral depletion. Caroline shares her personal journey from severe health challenges—including autoimmune issues, gut inflammation, hormonal imbalance, and chronic fatigue—to full recovery through mineral replenishment. This conversation reveals why even health-conscious individuals may still be mineral deficient, how modern food and water systems contribute to the problem, and what it actually takes to restore balance at the cellular level. 🔑 Key Topics Covered
🧠 Minerals: The Missing Piece in Modern Health One of the most powerful takeaways from this episode is this: 👉 Minerals are not just nutrients—they are the foundation of life itself Everything in your body—from your bones and tissues to your cellular structure—is built from minerals. And yet, despite their importance, they are rarely discussed in modern healthcare. Why This Matters Your body:
👉 But it cannot produce minerals They must come from:
If they are missing, your body cannot function optimally—no matter how healthy everything else looks. 🌍 Why Everyone Is Mineral Deficient (Even Healthy People) One of the biggest misconceptions is: 👉 “I eat well, so I must be getting enough nutrients” But the reality is very different. The Soil Problem
👉 You would need to eat significantly more food today to get the same minerals your grandparents did The Water Problem
👉 You may be drinking “clean” water—but it’s empty ⚡ Energy, Fatigue & the Role of Mitochondria If you struggle with fatigue, brain fog, or low energy, this section is critical. How Energy Is Made Inside your cells are structures called mitochondria. Their job: 👉 Convert nutrients into energy (ATP) But they need fuel. That Fuel Includes:
Without minerals:
What This Feels Like
👉 Your body is conserving energy because it doesn’t have enough fuel 🧩 Why Symptoms Keep Adding Up Many people today don’t have just one issue—they have multiple.
This happens because: 👉 The body is trying to function with limited resources Instead of treating symptoms separately, this episode highlights: 👉 The importance of addressing the root cause 🧂 The Problem with Modern Supplements & Electrolytes Many people try to fix the problem with supplements—but still don’t feel better. Why? Common Issues:
The Key Insight: 👉 Minerals must work together in balanced ratios Taking large amounts of one mineral:
🌿 Plant-Based Minerals: A Different Approach Caroline introduces a powerful concept: 👉 Not all minerals are created equal Traditional Sources:
These often have:
Plant-Based Minerals: Derived from natural processes in soil and plants, these are:
👉 They mimic how nature delivers minerals 🔬 Fulvic & Humic: Nature’s Delivery System Two key compounds discussed: Fulvic Acid
👉 Supports energy, focus, and brain function Humic Substances
👉 Work as a gentle, ongoing cleansing system 🔄 Detox Without Overwhelm Unlike aggressive detox methods:
👉 This creates sustainable, long-term improvement 🧘♀️ Minerals & the Nervous System One of the most overlooked insights: 👉 Stress may not just be external—it may be internal When your body lacks minerals:
When Minerals Are Restored:
🌱 What People Notice First According to Caroline, most people experience:
Over time:
📘 About the Guest Caroline Alan is the co-founder of BEAM Minerals and a leading voice in mineral health and cellular nutrition. After overcoming her own complex health challenges through mineral replenishment, she now helps others restore balance through a root-cause, ecosystem-based approach. 📚 Featured Resource 📘 Book: The Mineral Reset by Caroline Alan 👉 Coming Spring (Hay House Publishing) A deep dive into mineral health, cellular energy, and how restoring mineral balance can transform overall wellness. 🌐 Resources & Links 🌐 Website: https://www.carolinealan.com/ 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinealanofficial/ 📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness 💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel 📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram: | |||
| 78: Your Gut Actually Controls Your Hormones – Menopause Truth with Cynthia Thurlow | 23 Apr 2026 | 00:55:06 | |
What if the symptoms you’re experiencing in your 30s, 40s, and beyond aren’t just about hormones—but about your gut? In this episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness, McCall McPherson sits down with Cynthia Thurlow, nurse practitioner, TEDx speaker, and metabolic health expert, to explore how gut health, hormones, and metabolism are deeply interconnected—especially during perimenopause and menopause. Drawing from over 25 years of clinical experience and her new book The Menopause Gut, Cynthia shares why menopause should be viewed as a full-body systems shift, not just a decline in hormones. This conversation dives into the role of the gut microbiome, inflammation, immune aging, metabolic dysfunction, and lifestyle factors that shape how women experience midlife and beyond. 🔑 Key Topics Covered
🧠 Menopause Is a Systems Shift—Not Just Hormone Loss One of the most powerful takeaways: 👉 Menopause is not just about declining estrogen and progesterone It’s a whole-body transition involving:
Focusing only on hormone levels misses the bigger picture—and limits results. 🦠 The Gut–Hormone Connection Your gut microbiome plays a central role in:
The “Microgenderome” A key concept discussed:
👉 These changes directly impact inflammation and hormone balance 🔄 The Estrobolome & Estrogen Detox The estrobolome is the part of your gut microbiome responsible for processing estrogen. When functioning properly:
When disrupted:
Signs of imbalance may include:
👉 Even in menopause, estrogen balance still matters 🔥 Inflammation Increases in Midlife As hormone levels fluctuate:
This leads to:
⚖️ Why Metabolism Changes in Your 40s and 50s Many women notice: 👉 “I’m doing the same thing—but gaining weight” This is not random. Key drivers include:
Important Insight Muscle is your body’s largest glucose reservoir. 👉 Losing muscle = losing metabolic control 💪 Muscle, Protein & Long-Term Health One of the most important strategies: 👉 Protect and build muscle Cynthia emphasizes:
Why it matters:
⏳ Fasting: Rethinking the Approach for Women Intermittent fasting is not one-size-fits-all—especially for women in midlife. Key insight: 👉 Over-fasting can lead to muscle loss Instead, Cynthia recommends:
🧘♀️ Stress, Trauma & Hormone Health Chronic stress is one of the most overlooked drivers of:
Key factors:
👉 Stress doesn’t just affect how you feel—it changes how your body functions 🛡️ Immune Aging (Immunosenescence) As estrogen declines:
👉 Women are significantly more likely to develop autoimmune disease in midlife This is another reason why gut health and hormone balance are critical. 🌱 Where to Start (Foundational Strategy) Instead of chasing quick fixes: Focus on the basics:
👉 These foundational habits create the biggest long-term impact 📘 About the Guest Cynthia Thurlow is a nurse practitioner with over 25 years of clinical experience, a TEDx speaker, and a leading expert in metabolic health, intermittent fasting, and women’s hormones. She specializes in helping women navigate perimenopause and menopause through a root-cause, whole-body approach. 📚 Featured Resource 📘 Book: The Menopause Gut by Cynthia Thurlow 👉 https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/777129/the-menopause-gut-by-cynthia-thurlow-np/ A comprehensive guide to how gut health impacts hormones, inflammation, metabolism, and aging—designed to help women take control of their health during midlife and beyond. 🌐 Resources & Links 🌐 Website: https://www.cynthiathurlow.com/ 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/cynthiathurlow 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthia-thurlow/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cynthia_thurlow_/ 📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness 💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel 📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa | |||
| 77: Inflammation Isn't Aging – Reverse Brain Fog with Shivani Gupta | 16 Apr 2026 | 00:43:42 | |
What if the fatigue, brain fog, and inflammation you’ve been blaming on aging… is actually something you can reverse? In this episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness, McCall McPherson sits down with Shivani Gupta, Ayurvedic practitioner, turmeric researcher, and author of The Inflammation Code, to explore a completely different perspective on inflammation. Blending ancient Ayurvedic wisdom with modern science, Dr. Gupta explains how chronic inflammation is at the root of many modern health issues—from thyroid dysfunction to gut imbalance—and how small, daily rituals can dramatically shift your health without extreme diets or complicated protocols.
🔑 Key Topics Covered What inflammation really is (and why it’s often mistaken for aging) The Ayurvedic perspective on root-cause healing and prevention How chronic stress and toxin exposure drive inflammation Early signs of inflammation most people ignore The connection between gut health, leaky gut, and autoimmunity How Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis is viewed in Ayurveda Why daily detox habits are essential in modern life The science behind turmeric and its powerful anti-inflammatory effects How inflammation impacts thyroid hormone conversion (T4 → T3) Simple Ayurvedic rituals to reduce inflammation and support hormone balance
🔥 Inflammation Is Not Aging One of the most powerful reframes in this episode: 👉 Many symptoms we associate with aging are actually inflammation These include:
According to Dr. Gupta, chronic inflammation is the body’s response to:
👉 Instead of accepting these symptoms, we can address the root cause
🌿 The Ayurvedic Perspective on Inflammation Ayurveda views inflammation differently than conventional medicine. Instead of focusing only on symptoms, it asks: 👉 Why is the body out of balance in the first place? Key concepts include:
When digestion is weak:
👉 This creates the foundation for chronic disease
🦠 Gut Health, Leaky Gut & Autoimmunity Modern science now supports what Ayurveda has taught for thousands of years. When the gut becomes compromised:
👉 This is a key driver of autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis
🦋 Thyroid Function & Inflammation Inflammation directly impacts thyroid health in several ways:
👉 Even with medication, symptoms may persist if inflammation is not addressed
🌱 Daily Detox: The Missing Piece Ayurveda emphasizes that detox is not occasional—it’s daily. Why? We are constantly exposed to:
👉 Without daily detox, toxins accumulate
🧘♀️ Simple Ayurvedic Daily Rituals Dr. Gupta shares powerful yet simple habits to reduce inflammation: Morning Rituals
Lifestyle Practices
👉 These small habits create a cumulative healing effect
🌿 Turmeric: A Powerful Anti-Inflammatory Tool Turmeric is one of the most researched natural anti-inflammatory compounds. Key Benefits
Important Insight
👉 Therapeutic dosing matters for real impact
🔄 Inflammation & Hormone Conversion Inflammation disrupts key processes in the body:
👉 This leads to symptoms like:
🌿 Where to Start (Simple + Effective) Dr. Gupta recommends starting with:
👉 You don’t need extreme changes—small, consistent habits matter most
📘 About the Guest Shivani Gupta is an Ayurvedic practitioner, turmeric researcher, and author of The Inflammation Code. She specializes in blending ancient healing practices with modern science to help individuals reduce inflammation and restore balance through sustainable daily habits.
🌐 Resources & Links 🌐 Website: https://shivanigupta.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.shivanigupta/ 📘 Book: The Inflammation Code 📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness 💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel 📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa | |||
| 76: Your Gut Might Be Blocking Your Hormones – Why You Still Feel Bad Despite Normal Labs with Cassie Smith | 09 Apr 2026 | 00:36:51 | |
What if your symptoms aren’t because your hormones are “wrong”—but because your body can’t actually use them? In this episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness, McCall McPherson sits down with Dr. Cassie Smith, board-certified endocrinologist and Chief Medical Director at Modern Thyroid Clinic, to uncover the powerful connection between gut health, inflammation, and hormone function. Dr. Smith shares why so many women continue to feel exhausted, inflamed, and out of balance—even when their labs look “normal.” This conversation reveals how gut dysfunction drives inflammation, blocks hormone activity at the cellular level, and creates a cycle that conventional medicine often misses. 🔑 Key Topics Covered
🧠 The Gut–Hormone Connection Explained Hormones don’t just need to be present—they need to enter your cells and function properly. When inflammation is high:
👉 This is why many women feel stuck despite treatment 🔁 The Cycle No One Explains This dysfunction creates a loop:
👉 The cycle reinforces itself unless the root cause is addressed 🚨 Signs Your Gut Could Be the Root Cause You may not have obvious digestive issues—but your gut could still be involved. Common signs include:
👉 Multiple symptoms across systems often point back to gut dysfunction 🦋 Thyroid, Gut & Cellular Function Gut health is critical for thyroid patients.
👉 Even with proper thyroid medication, symptoms may persist if the gut is not addressed 🔥 Inflammation Is the Real Problem Inflammation is often invisible—but it affects everything:
As Dr. Smith emphasizes, inflammation is not just a concept—it’s something you feel daily. ⚖️ Insulin, Cortisol & Metabolic Dysfunction Gut-driven inflammation leads to:
👉 This results in:
💉 GLP-1 and Breaking the Cycle One of the most powerful tools discussed: Microdosed GLP-1 therapy When used correctly, it can:
👉 The key is low, physiologic dosing 🌱 Where to Start Instead of increasing hormone doses endlessly, focus on:
Foundational strategies:
📘 About the Guest Dr. Cassie Smith is a dual board-certified endocrinologist in endocrinology, diabetes, metabolism, and internal medicine, and the founder of Modern Endocrine. She is known for her root-cause, whole-body approach to hormone health, focusing on gut health, metabolism, and inflammation to help patients feel better beyond “normal labs.” She also serves as Chief Medical Director at Modern Thyroid Clinic, where she helps guide advanced, patient-centered protocols for complex thyroid and hormonal cases. 🌐 Resources & Links 🌐 Modern Thyroid Clinic Profile: https://www.modernthyroidclinic.com/cassie-smith 🌐 Modern Endocrine About Page: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/about/ 📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness 💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel 📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa | |||
| 75: Fertility Isn’t Just Luck – How Hormones, Thyroid, and Lifestyle Shape Your Ability to Get Pregnant with Natalie Crawford | 02 Apr 2026 | 00:45:22 | |
What if your fertility challenges weren’t random—but your body signaling deeper imbalances that can actually be addressed? In this episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness, McCall McPherson sits down with Natalie Crawford, a board-certified reproductive endocrinologist and infertility expert, to break down the real drivers behind fertility struggles. Dr. Crawford shares a powerful, root-cause approach to fertility, explaining how your menstrual cycle acts as a vital sign, how thyroid health and inflammation play a major role, and why modern lifestyle factors are significantly impacting fertility outcomes. This conversation is both eye-opening and deeply empowering for women who want to better understand their bodies and take control of their reproductive health.
🔑 Key Topics Covered The rising rates of infertility and what’s driving the increase Why your menstrual cycle is a key indicator of hormonal health What a “normal” cycle actually looks like (and common red flags) How to accurately track ovulation using simple, effective methods The connection between thyroid health and fertility outcomes Why Subclinical Hypothyroidism is often missed—but critical How inflammation impacts egg quality, hormones, and conception The role of gut health and the microbiome in fertility Why insulin resistance affects fertility—even without diabetes How stress, sleep, and lifestyle directly influence reproductive health
🩺 Understanding Your Cycle (Your Hormonal Blueprint) Your menstrual cycle is one of the most important tools for understanding your fertility. Each month, your body moves through two key phases:
Ovulation occurs in between—and timing matters more than most people realize. 👉 A healthy cycle should be:
🚩 Warning signs include:
🧪 Tracking Ovulation (Without Relying on Labs) Dr. Crawford emphasizes that lab testing alone is often not enough. Instead, your body gives you clear signals:
👉 Even one tracking method improves fertility awareness 👉 Combining methods increases accuracy significantly
🦋 The Thyroid–Fertility Connection Thyroid health is one of the most overlooked drivers of fertility issues. Even when labs appear “normal,” your body may still be under stress. This is known as Subclinical Hypothyroidism Key insights:
👉 During pregnancy, your body needs 30% more thyroid hormone If your system is already strained, it may not be able to meet this demand
🔥 Inflammation: The Root Cause You Can’t Ignore One of the biggest themes in this episode is the role of inflammation. Chronic inflammation can:
Modern contributors include:
🦠 Gut Health & Fertility Your gut plays a central role in regulating inflammation and hormones. When gut health is compromised:
Key factors impacting gut health:
👉 Fiber-rich foods are essential for supporting a healthy gut and hormone balance
🍬 Insulin Resistance (Even If You’re “Healthy”) Insulin resistance is not just a diabetes issue—it’s a fertility issue. It can:
Even women without PCOS or diabetes can be affected.
💪 Why Muscle, Stress & Sleep Matter Muscle Health Building muscle helps regulate blood sugar without relying on insulin, improving hormonal balance. Stress Chronic stress raises cortisol, which increases inflammation and disrupts fertility signals. Sleep Sleep is one of the most powerful tools for hormone regulation. 👉 Aim for 7–9 hours per night to support recovery, hormone balance, and fertility
🌱 Pre-Pregnancy Planning (The Missing Strategy) Instead of waiting until something goes wrong: 👉 Start preparing your body before trying to conceive This includes:
Fertility is not just about pregnancy—it’s a reflection of long-term health.
🌐 Resources & Links 🌐 Website: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com 📘 Book: The Fertility Formula by Natalie Crawford
📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness 💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel 📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa | |||
| 74: The Future of Medicine May Not Be Medication - How Stem Cells and Regenerative Therapy Are Changing Healing with Dr. Karolynn Halpert | 26 Mar 2026 | 00:51:32 | |
What if the future of medicine isn’t about managing symptoms—but actually helping the body rebuild and heal itself? In this episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness, McCall McPherson sits down with Dr. Karolynn Halpert, a regenerative medicine specialist at BioXcellerator, to explore the powerful and rapidly evolving world of stem cell therapy. Dr. Halpert shares her journey from emergency medicine to regenerative care, and explains how stem cells and exosomes are being used to reduce inflammation, restore function, and support healing in conditions ranging from spinal cord injuries to autoimmune disease, infertility, and neurological disorders. This conversation dives deep into what stem cells actually are, why treatment options differ drastically between the U.S. and countries like Colombia, and how regenerative medicine may reshape the future of longevity, hormones, and chronic disease care.
🔑 Key Topics Covered
🧠 What Are Stem Cells (And Why They Matter) Regenerative medicine focuses on helping the body repair itself rather than simply treating symptoms. According to Dr. Halpert:
Exosomes, on the other hand, are tiny vesicles released by stem cells that carry healing signals—but unlike stem cells, they are not alive and cannot adapt to their environment. 👉 At BioXcellerator, combining both creates a powerful effect:
🌍 Why People Travel for Stem Cell Therapy One of the most important distinctions discussed: In the United States:
At BioXcellerator:
👉 This creates a significant difference in outcomes and effectiveness.
🧬 Real Patient Transformations Dr. Halpert shares powerful real-life cases: 🦽 Spinal Cord Injury
🧠 Autism
These cases highlight what may be possible when regenerative medicine is applied with precision and specialization.
👩⚕️ Hormones, Fertility & Women’s Health Stem cells are also being explored in:
Early patient feedback shows:
🦋 Autoimmune Conditions & Thyroid Insight While research is still emerging, one key takeaway:
However, more clinical data is still needed, especially for thyroid-specific outcomes.
⚠️ Common Misconceptions About Stem Cells A major myth addressed in the episode: ❌ All stem cells come from embryos ✔️ Many (including those used at BioXcellerator) come from umbilical cord tissue, a discarded, ethical source Other misconceptions:
🌱 The Bigger Message: You Still Have to Do the Work Dr. Halpert emphasizes something critical: Regenerative medicine works best when paired with lifestyle changes. Key factors:
Stem cells are not a shortcut—they are a powerful tool layered on top of a healthy foundation.
🌐 Resources & Links
📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness 💻 Website: | |||
| 73: Sauna Science Explained: Infrared vs. Traditional, Detox, Heart Health, and What to Look For with Connie Zack | 19 Mar 2026 | 00:44:24 | |
What if sauna therapy supports more than relaxation, influencing detoxification, circulation, and long-term health? In this episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness, McCall McPherson sits down with Connie Zack, co-founder of Sunlighten, to unpack the science, strategy, and real-world benefits of sauna therapy. Connie shares the deeply personal story that led her and her husband to leave careers in pharmaceutical sales and build Sunlighten after seeing infrared therapy transform her brother’s health. Connie and her husband started Sunlighten more than 20 years ago after her brother’s life changed through infrared light therapy, and the company continues to focus on science-backed infrared sauna technology. Together, McCall and Connie break down the differences between traditional saunas and infrared saunas, why all infrared saunas are not created equal, what far infrared actually does inside the body, and how sauna use can support cardiovascular health, detoxification, skin, nervous system regulation, and overall longevity. They also discuss red light therapy, what to look for when shopping for a sauna, and how to think about sauna use as a practical part of a wellness routine. This episode is a helpful guide for anyone curious about sauna therapy and wanting a clearer, more evidence-informed understanding of how to choose the right sauna and use it well. Episode Highlights
Resources & Links
📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness 💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel 📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa | |||
| 72: When Thyroid Care Finally Starts Listening - Why Personalized Treatment Changes Everything with Yari Tran Melody Volz and Nikki Abelow | 12 Mar 2026 | 00:47:57 | |
What if the reason many thyroid patients struggle is not the condition itself, but how thyroid care is traditionally approached? In this episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness, McCall McPherson continues the clinician interview series by introducing three more members of the Modern Thyroid Clinic team: Yari Tran, PA-C, Melody Volz, FNP-C, and Nikki Abelow, APRN. Yari earned her psychology degree at Texas A&M and her physician assistant training at Texas Tech, then began in neurosurgery and pain management before shifting into root-cause thyroid and hormone care. Melody trained at the University of Texas at Austin, became a family nurse practitioner in 2014, and brings both clinical expertise and her own history of hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s to patient care. Nikki, a Florida-based APRN, graduated from Chamberlain University in 2019 after working as a cardiac nurse and later pursued additional functional medicine training through the School of Applied Functional Medicine. This conversation gives listeners a behind-the-scenes look at how each clinician found their way into medicine, what changed their perspective on conventional thyroid care, and why they are so passionate about individualized treatment. Across all three interviews, a shared theme emerges: thyroid care is rarely simple, TSH alone is not enough, and patients deserve to feel seen, heard, and fully supported. Note About This Episode Hillary Mayers was originally scheduled to appear in this episode. Due to a technical error during recording and editing, we were unable to include her segment. We greatly value Hillary’s insights and expertise, and she will be featured in a dedicated solo episode in the future. Thank you for your understanding. We truly appreciate your patience and support as we navigate this, and we’re excited to continue bringing you meaningful content in Thursday’s episode. Episode Highlights
In This Episode, You Will Learn
About the Clinicians Yari Tran, PA-C began her medical career in neurosurgery and pain management before a hormone education conference reshaped her clinical perspective and sparked her passion for functional thyroid and hormone care. She lives in Austin with her two daughters and enjoys reading, running, and hiking. Melody Volz, FNP-C earned both her BSN and MSN from the University of Texas at Austin and became a certified family nurse practitioner in 2014. Her own experience with hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s helped shape her patient-centered approach to thyroid and hormone care. Nikki Abelow, APRN is a Florida-based advanced practice registered nurse who came from a cardiac nursing background and later expanded into functional medicine after her own health challenges pushed her to look beyond conventional care. She lives in Florida with her husband and son. 📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness 💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel 📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa | |||
| 71: A Cancer Diagnosis Changed Everything - The Hidden Truth About Big Food and Metabolic Health with Patrick Sullivan Jr and Ashley Sullivan | 05 Mar 2026 | 00:32:35 | |
What if the reason you still feel tired after optimizing hormones is not your hormones at all? In this episode, Michael sits down with Patrick Sullivan Jr. and Ashley Sullivan, the executive producers behind the new documentary Breaking Big Food: How the American Food System Went Rotten and How It's Being Revived. Their mission to expose the problems within the modern food system began with a deeply personal experience: Patrick’s thyroid cancer diagnosis. Patrick shares the emotional journey of discovering a lump in his neck, navigating multiple biopsies, and ultimately undergoing thyroid surgery. The experience sparked a deeper question that traditional medicine could not answer: why did cancer develop in the first place? That question ultimately led the couple into the world of metabolic health, food quality, and environmental influences on chronic disease. The conversation explores how processed foods, corporate food systems, and environmental toxins may contribute to widespread metabolic dysfunction, thyroid disease, and chronic illness. Patrick and Ashley also share insights from their documentary, including shocking discoveries about how tobacco companies once controlled a large portion of the American food supply. Inspired by their journey, the couple also launched Firefly Organic Coffee and Market, a Scottsdale-based café focused on mold-free organic coffee and nutrient-dense foods. This episode connects the dots between food, stress, environment, and long-term health while highlighting how personal pain can become a powerful purpose. 👤 About the Guests Patrick Sullivan Jr. Patrick Sullivan Jr. is an entrepreneur, filmmaker, and thyroid cancer survivor. After his diagnosis over a decade ago, he began exploring the deeper connections between food, environmental exposures, stress, and metabolic health. Patrick is the executive producer of the documentary Breaking Big Food, which investigates the history of the American food system and its impact on chronic disease. Ashley Sullivan Ashley Sullivan is a business owner, producer, and wellness advocate who works alongside Patrick in both their film and food initiatives. She co-produced Breaking Big Food and co-founded Firefly Organic Coffee and Market, a Scottsdale café dedicated to providing organic, mold-free coffee and access to nutrient-dense foods that support better health. 🔑 Key Topics Covered
🎬 Resources and Links Mentioned 📺 Watch the Documentary Breaking Big Food: How the American Food System Went Rotten and How It's Being Revived Available on Apple TV and Amazon Prime Video 📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness 💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel 📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa | |||
| 70: Normal Labs but Still Miserable - Why Symptom Driven Thyroid Care Changes Everything with Brandy Valentino, Jessica Strauss and Krystal Adams | 26 Feb 2026 | 01:04:04 | |
What if the reason many thyroid patients still feel unwell is not their labs, but how their symptoms are being interpreted? Today’s episode is the first installment of a multi-part clinician interview series on the Modern Thyroid Clinic podcast. Host McCall McPherson sits down with three of the clinic’s clinicians, Brandy Valentino, RN, WHNP, CNM, Jessica Strauss, DNP, FNP-C, and Krystal Adams, MSN, FNP-BC, LSO, to help listeners get to know the people behind the care. Together, they share their personal journeys into medicine, what led them to thyroid and hormone work, and why individualized, symptom-driven care matters so much for thyroid patients. You will also hear candid conversations about medical gaslighting, obesity bias, the limitations of TSH-only testing, and why many people with “normal labs” still feel miserable. Along the way, the episode brings plenty of personality and behind-the-scenes stories, including Brandy’s early inspiration from a care flight helicopter tour, Jessica’s love of travel and Disney, and Krystal’s surprising connection to a military dolphin trainer story. Episode Highlights
In This Episode, You Will Learn
Featured Clinicians Brandy Valentino, RN, WHNP, CNM Brandy shares her path from labor and delivery and midwifery into thyroid care, including how questioning cookie-cutter algorithms led her to a more personalized, patient-centered approach. Jessica explains how her own symptoms and years of being dismissed shaped her approach to care, and why she is passionate about full thyroid evaluation, belief in patient symptoms, and restoring hope. Krystal Adams, MSN, FNP-BC, LSO Krystal describes her prevention-focused background, her love of hormone care, and how combining hormone and thyroid optimization can help patients finally feel normal again. 📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness 💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel 📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa | |||
| 69: GLP-1s Are Not Just for Weight Loss - The Smarter Microdosing Strategy for Metabolism Muscle and Long Term Health with McCall McPherson | 12 Feb 2026 | 00:29:46 | |
What if GLP-1 medications work best not at higher doses, but with slower, personalized microdosing? In this solo Ask Me Anything episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness, McCall McPherson answers your most pressing questions about GLP-1 medications. Drawing from clinical experience and current research, she breaks down how these medications actually work, why microdosing matters, and how to minimize side effects while protecting metabolism, muscle, and long-term health. McCall explores the connection between GLP-1s and inflammation, thyroid function, fertility, cancer risk, longevity, and metabolic recovery. She also explains when patients may need long-term therapy, how to successfully come off these medications, and why slow, personalized dosing produces the safest and most sustainable results. If you’ve heard conflicting information about GLP-1s, this episode offers clarity, context, and a clinically grounded perspective on how to use them wisely.
Key Topics Covered
GLP-1 Benefits You May Not Know About
Common Concerns Addressed Hair loss and muscle loss Usually caused by rapid weight loss or inadequate protein and nutrient intake, not the medication itself. Thyroid cancer risk Human studies have not shown an increased risk for common thyroid cancers. GLP-1s should be avoided only in patients with a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or MEN syndromes. Thyroid medication changes Weight loss and metabolic shifts often require dose adjustments over time.
Lifestyle Strategies That Support Success
📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness 💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel 📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa | |||
| 68: When Medicine Had No Answers - How One Family’s Journey Redefined Chronic Illness Healing with Dr. Aaron Hartman | 05 Feb 2026 | 00:44:55 | |
What if the answers to chronic illness are often missed because medicine focuses on symptoms instead of root causes? In this deeply personal and powerful episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness, McCall McPherson welcomes Dr. Aaron Hartman, functional medicine physician, clinical researcher, and author of UnCurable: From Hopeless Diagnosis to Defying All Odds. Dr. Hartman shares how his daughter’s complex medical challenges transformed his understanding of healthcare, pushing him beyond conventional medicine and into a root-cause, patient-centered approach. The conversation explores medical blind spots, medical gaslighting, and the limitations of symptom-focused care. Dr. Hartman explains why chronic illness often requires patients to become active participants in their health journey and how functional medicine can help uncover overlooked root causes. He also discusses environmental toxins, tick-borne illness, mold exposure, hypermobility syndromes, and the importance of personalized care strategies. This episode offers hope, validation, and practical insight for anyone who has felt dismissed, misunderstood, or stuck searching for answers.
Episode Highlights
In This Episode, You Will Learn
About Dr. Aaron Hartman: Dr. Aaron Hartman is a functional medicine physician, clinical researcher, and founder of the Virginia Research Center. He has participated in over 70 clinical research studies and serves as an Assistant Clinical Professor at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU). His work focuses on helping patients identify lifestyle and environmental leverage points that support the body’s natural ability to heal. His book, UnCurable, shares his family’s journey navigating chronic illness while providing practical strategies for patients seeking answers beyond conventional care. 📖 About UnCurable UnCurable blends memoir and medicine, weaving personal family experience with decades of clinical insight. It challenges conventional models of chronic illness and empowers patients to pursue healing through personalized, root cause focused care. Discover the book:
Follow Dr. Aaron Hartman and Richmond Integrative & Functional Medicine Website: https://richmondfunctionalmedicine.com/ YouTube: @AaronHartmanMD 📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness 💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel 📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa | |||
| 67: Why Thyroid Eye Disease Is So Often Missed - The Clear Path From Diagnosis to Real Treatment with Dr. Sean Paul | 29 Jan 2026 | 00:32:20 | |
What if the reason thyroid eye disease feels so confusing is because it requires more than one specialist to treat it well? In this episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness, host McCall McPherson sits down with Dr. Sean Paul, a board-certified oculoplastic and orbital surgeon based in Austin, Texas, to explore thyroid eye disease (TED) from diagnosis through advanced treatment. Dr. Paul explains what thyroid eye disease really is, why it is often underdiagnosed, and how it impacts both vision and quality of life. The conversation covers medical therapy, biologic treatments like Tepezza (teprotumumab), surgical options, and the importance of a multidisciplinary approach. They also discuss emerging trends in aesthetic and reconstructive eye surgery, regenerative skin treatments, and why long-term maintenance and skin health matter just as much as procedures. This episode offers clarity, hope, and practical guidance for anyone struggling with thyroid eye disease, Graves’ disease, or eye changes related to autoimmune thyroid conditions.
👤 About the Guest: Dr. Sean Paul Dr. Sean Paul is a fellowship-trained oculoplastic and orbital surgeon and the founder of Austin Face and Body. He completed medical school in San Antonio and trained extensively in ophthalmology and oculoplastic surgery, with early experience in reconstructive eye surgery at Brooke Army Medical Center during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Dr. Paul specializes in thyroid eye disease, orbital inflammation, eyelid reconstruction, and aesthetic facial surgery, blending functional restoration with natural-appearing cosmetic outcomes. His practice focuses on both medical necessity and patient confidence.
🔑 Key Topics Covered
🧠 Important Medical Clarifications (Fact-Checked)
🌐 Where to Learn More Practice Website: 🌐 https://www.austinfaceandbody.com Instagram: 📸 https://www.instagram.com/austinfaceandbody 📸 https://www.instagram.com/drseanpaul 📍 Locations: Austin, Westlake, Downtown Austin, Round Rock 💻 Virtual consultations available 📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness 💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel 📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa | |||
| 66: What If Aging Did Not Mean Slowing Down?, The Most Practical Healthspan Blueprint to Build Strength, Energy, and Independence with Dr. Chris Renna, DO | 22 Jan 2026 | 00:45:00 | |
What if healthspan is not about adding more years to life, but protecting strength, energy, and independence as you age? What if the real goal is not just living longer, but staying strong, capable, and energized for decades? In this episode, McCall sits down with Dr. Chris Renna, DO, founder of LifeSpan Medicine, to explore what healthspan really means and why most people start seeking answers only after symptoms have already taken hold. Dr. Renna shares why he shifted from managing diagnoses to building true patient partnerships, and how consistent rhythms in sleep, food, movement, and perspective can change the way you feel day to day. They also discuss practical exercise targets, the role of gratitude and boundaries, and a fascinating look at emerging longevity therapies that may become far more common in the years ahead. Key Discussion Points
Some Questions We Explore
About the Guest Dr. Chris Renna, DO is the founder of LifeSpan Medicine, a preventive and longevity-focused practice designed to help people prevent disease, resolve symptoms, and improve long-term health through personalized concierge support and follow-up. He is a published author and speaker with decades of experience in preventive medicine and health optimization. Resources
📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness 💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel 📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa | |||
| 65: Insulin Resistance Changes Everything - The Hidden Driver of Weight Gain, Inflammation, and Thyroid Dysfunction with Dr. Alessia Roehnelt | 15 Jan 2026 | 00:42:11 | |
What if insulin resistance is quietly driving inflammation, weight gain, and thyroid dysfunction years before blood sugar ever looks abnormal? In this episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness, McCall McPherson sits down with endocrinologist Dr. Alessia Roehnelt for an in-depth discussion on insulin resistance and why it is one of the most important predictors of long-term health outcomes. Dr. Roehnelt explains how insulin functions in the body, what happens when insulin resistance develops, and why chronically elevated insulin drives inflammation, weight gain, metabolic dysfunction, and disease progression. The conversation highlights the strong bidirectional relationship between insulin resistance and thyroid dysfunction, including how each can worsen the other when left unaddressed. Together, they explore early warning signs of insulin resistance, optimal lab markers, lifestyle interventions, and when medications like metformin or GLP-1 agonists may be appropriate. This episode emphasizes early detection, individualized care, and the importance of addressing inflammation to restore metabolic health. 🔑 Key Topics Covered
🧪 Labs & Metrics Discussed
🏃♀️ Lifestyle Strategies for Improving Insulin Sensitivity
💊 Medications Discussed
🌿 Key Takeaways
📍 Where to Find the Guest • Website & Practice 🔗 https://www.endohealthdoc.com — Dr. Roehnelt’s endocrinology and metabolic health practice 🔗 https://www.instagram.com/endohealthdoc/?hl=en — EndoHealthDoc on Instagram 🔗 https://www.facebook.com/alessia.roehnelt— Dr. Roehnelt’s Facebook reels and clips 📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness 💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel 📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa | |||
| 64: We Got Weight Loss Wrong - The Real Meaning of GLP-1s and Metabolic Health with Ashley Koff | 08 Jan 2026 | 00:48:08 | |
What if the future of weight care is not about losing pounds, but about supporting metabolic health, nourishment, and sustainability? In this episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness, host McCall McPherson sits down with Ashley Koff, registered dietitian, entrepreneur, and author of the upcoming book Your Best Shot. Together, they unpack the rapidly evolving conversation around GLP-1 hormones, GLP-1 agonist medications, and what true weight health really means. Ashley brings a balanced, evidence-informed perspective to a topic often dominated by extremes. She explains the science behind GLP-1s, clarifies common misconceptions, and emphasizes why medications alone are never the full solution. This conversation centers on personalized nutrition, comprehensive assessment, and moving away from diet culture toward sustainable, root-cause care. 🔑 Key Topics Covered
💡 In This Episode, You Will Learn
🎯 Episode Takeaways
📘 About the Guest Ashley Koff, RD, is a nationally recognized nutrition expert, entrepreneur, and founder of The Better Nutrition Program. She specializes in personalized nutrition, weight health, and helping individuals move beyond diet culture toward sustainable wellbeing. Ashley is the author of the upcoming book Your Best Shot, which explores a smarter, more human approach to weight and health. Connect with Ashley Koff: 🌐 Website: https://thebetternutritionprogram.com/about/ 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-koff/ 📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness 💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel 📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa | |||
| 63: Stop Doing More Cardio - The Smarter Way Women Over 40 Build Strength and Confidence with Debra Atkinson | 01 Jan 2026 | 00:44:33 | |
What if the key to feeling strong, energized, and confident during menopause is not doing more cardio but training smarter? In this episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness, McCall McPherson sits down with Debra Atkinson, a leading authority on fitness for women over 40 and the founder of the Flipping 50 movement. Together, they explore how women’s bodies change during menopause and why strength training, bone health, and individualized exercise strategies are essential for long-term health. Debra shares practical, science-informed guidance on how women can safely build muscle, protect bone density, and maintain vitality during and after the menopausal transition. This conversation reframes exercise not as punishment or weight loss driven, but as a powerful tool for resilience, independence, and quality of life.
🔑 Key Topics Covered
💡 In This Episode, You Will Learn
🎯 Episode Takeaways
📚 Where to Learn More About Debra Atkinson 🌐 Website & Resources 🎧 Podcast: Flipping 50 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-flipping-50-show/id903871206 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0ePqDm4ubC0ifWIMjzM39R 📱 Social Media Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flipping50tv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Flipping50TV YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Flipping50TV 📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness 💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel 📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa | |||
| 62: Still Sick on Thyroid Medication? – The Shocking Truth Doctors Aren’t Explaining with Elle Russ | 23 Dec 2025 | 00:38:33 | |
What if the reason you still feel exhausted, foggy, and unwell on thyroid medication is because the system treating you is using decades-old rules that no longer serve patients? In this powerful episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness, McCall McPherson sits down with Elle Russ, bestselling author of The Paleo Thyroid Solution, to unpack why so many people with hypothyroidism and autoimmune thyroid disease continue to suffer despite being “treated.” Elle shares her deeply personal thyroid journey, including years of misdiagnosis, failed protocols, and the self-education that ultimately led to her recovery. Together, McCall and Elle explore where conventional thyroid care falls short, why outdated guidelines continue to harm patients, and how individualized thyroid hormone therapy can fully resolve symptoms when done correctly. This episode is a candid, science-grounded conversation about self-advocacy, education, and reclaiming health in a system that often dismisses thyroid patients. Key Topics Covered
Key Takeaways
About the Guest Elle Russ is a thyroid health educator, author, and advocate who has helped thousands of people reclaim their health after being dismissed by conventional medicine. She is the author of The Paleo Thyroid Solution and creator of The Ultimate Thyroid Course, a comprehensive educational program focused on restoring thyroid function through evidence-based strategies and patient empowerment. Resources Mentioned
📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness 💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel 📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa | |||
| 61: Medicine Waits Too Long - The Shocking Longevity Data You Should Be Tracking Now with Dr. Darshan Shah | 19 Dec 2025 | 00:35:17 | |
What if true longevity isn’t about treating disease after it appears, but about tracking the right data early and becoming the CEO of your own health? In this episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness, McCall McPherson sits down with Dr. Darshan Shah, MD, board-certified surgeon, published author, and co-founder of NEXT|HEALTH, the fastest-growing health optimization and longevity clinic network. Together, they explore why the current medical system is built to manage illness rather than create health, and what it truly means to take a proactive, data-driven approach to longevity. Dr. Shah shares his personal journey from burnout, autoimmune disease, and multiple medications to reclaiming his health through nutrition, movement, functional medicine, and biomarker tracking. This conversation is a powerful reminder that prevention, early intervention, and personal accountability are the foundations of long-term vitality. In This Episode, You Will Learn • Why traditional medicine excels at emergency care but falls short in creating long-term health • How Dr. Shah reversed autoimmune disease and reduced his medications through lifestyle and data • What it means to be the CEO of your own health • Why most routine lab work misses early warning signs of chronic disease • The difference between “normal” lab ranges and optimal health markers • Which biomarkers matter most for preventing chronic illness • Why hemoglobin A1C is one of the most important indicators of long-term health • How metabolic dysfunction develops years before symptoms appear • Why quarterly data tracking is more powerful than annual lab testing • How wearables, grip strength, and body composition predict longevity • When people should start monitoring biomarkers for healthspan and lifespan • The three non-negotiable habits Dr. Shah credits for his health transformation Key Topics Discussed • Reactive medicine vs proactive health optimization • Early detection of chronic disease through biomarkers • Metabolic health and insulin resistance • Inflammation as a root cause of disease • Healthspan vs lifespan • Patient empowerment and data literacy • Strength training and muscle mass as longevity markers • Sleep, stress, and nervous system regulation • Building sustainable habits that compound over time Dr. Shah’s Three Non-Negotiables for Longevity • A protected morning routine that includes movement, mental wellness, and reflection • Strength training as a priority over cardio when time is limited • Creating distance from phones at night to reduce stress and improve sleep quality About Dr. Darshan Shah, MD Dr. Darshan Shah is a board-certified surgeon, health optimization expert, and co-founder of NEXT|HEALTH, a nationwide network of longevity and wellness clinics focused on prevention, performance, and personalized care. After experiencing severe health decline himself, Dr. Shah pursued advanced training in nutrition, exercise physiology, and functional medicine, leading to a complete transformation of his health and clinical approach. Resources & Links 🌐 NEXT|HEALTH https://www.instagram.com/darshanshahmd/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/darshanshahmd/ 📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness 💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel 📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa | |||
| 60: Grief Changes Everything – The Surprising Routine McCall Uses to Protect Her Energy and Health with McCall McPherson | 11 Dec 2025 | 00:13:54 | |
What if the path to healing after deep loss begins with understanding exactly what your body needs to feel steady, supported, and whole again? In this deeply personal first episode back, McCall opens up about the recent loss of her brother and how grief has affected her health, energy, sleep, and daily rhythms. She answers one of the most requested questions from her community by walking listeners through her full supplement and medication routine, sharing exactly what she takes, why she takes it, and how each product supports different aspects of her health. From thyroid medication and mitochondrial support to hair repair, gut health, sleep aids, and antioxidants, McCall explains the purpose behind every item in her morning and evening stacks. She offers practical insight into how she is supporting her body through grief, fatigue, inflammation, and stress. She closes the episode with gratitude for the immense support she has received and a reminder to cherish loved ones and prioritize self care during life’s hardest moments. Key Topics Covered • How grief impacts energy, sleep, cognition, and metabolic health • McCall’s complete morning supplement stack and medication routine • Thyroid medications and why she takes desiccated thyroid and micro dose lithium • The role of mitochondrial support in chronic fatigue and long term energy • Hair repair strategies including supplements, minoxidil, and nutrient support • Gut health tools including probiotics, digestive enzymes, and glutathione • Evening supplements for sleep, anxiety relief, and nervous system regulation • How and when she uses targeted supplements like stem cell support, NAD precursors, antioxidants, and focus gummies • Practical tips for choosing quality supplements and dosing wisely • Emotional reflections on loss, gratitude, and community support In This Episode, You Will Learn • What McCall takes daily for thyroid function and energy • How she layers mitochondrial support, from methylene blue to Timeline Nutrition • Her personal experience with hair loss, bleaching damage, and repair protocols • Why probiotic choice matters and which brands she trusts • How grief and stress shape supplement needs • Her full nighttime routine including progesterone, glutathione, sleep supports, and trazodone • Supplements she uses only as needed and why • How she sequences her routine to maximize absorption and function 📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness 💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel 📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa | |||
| 59: Stop Holiday Weight Gain Before It Starts – The Ten Science Backed Hacks Every Thyroid Patient Needs with McCall McPherson | 27 Nov 2025 | 00:20:52 | |
What if a few simple shifts in how you eat, move, and rest could completely change the way your body handles the holidays? In this solo episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness, host McCall McPherson shares ten science backed holiday hacks to help you enjoy the festive season without sacrificing your health or energy. From reducing inflammation and stabilizing blood sugar to improving sleep, alcohol choices, and recovery habits, these simple strategies are especially valuable for anyone navigating thyroid issues, autoimmune conditions, or metabolic challenges. Instead of entering the new year feeling depleted, inflamed, and exhausted, McCall offers practical tools to help you stay vibrant, grounded, and well all season long. Key Topics Covered • How holidays trigger inflammation and antibody spikes • Antioxidants and glutathione support for immune balance • The Food Flow Formula for optimal blood sugar control • Post meal walking and metabolic impacts • Magnesium and glycine for improved sleep and insulin sensitivity • Strength training as a metabolic and inflammatory buffer • Using polyphenols to slow glucose absorption • How to choose clean alcohol sources that minimize inflammation • Meal timing and why stopping three hours before bed matters • The power of light management and circadian support • Why intentional rest is critical for thyroid and adrenal recovery In This Episode, You Will Learn • How to reduce post meal glucose spikes by up to 75 percent • Why hypothyroid bodies gain weight more easily during the holidays • The science behind sleep timing, growth hormone, and recovery • Why walking after meals functions like natural insulin • What alcohol choices are least inflammatory and why wine sourcing matters • How to prevent fatigue, brain fog, and metabolic crashes Practical Hacks Shared in the Episode • Eat protein and fiber first, save carbs for last • Walk 20 minutes within 30 minutes after meals • Take 200 mg magnesium and 3 g glycine before bed • Strength train 30 to 60 minutes before big meals • Pair meals with polyphenols like green tea or red wine • Avoid California wines and choose Italian Piedmont wines or Blanco tequila • Stop eating three hours before bed to improve insulin and sleep • Dim lights before bedtime and avoid screens • Plan downtime after busy events to reset inflammation and adrenal function Episode Takeaways • Small choices compounded over time radically change holiday health outcomes • Thyroid and metabolic health require proactive strategies • Enjoy the holidays and indulge intentionally without paying the price • Protecting your blood sugar protects your energy, mood, and immunity Listen Now and Share If this episode supports you, share it with a friend or loved one who wants to enjoy the holidays without inflammation, weight gain, or exhaustion. Subscribe and leave a review to help others discover life changing thyroid support. 📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness 💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel 📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa | |||
| 58: Why Waiting Makes You Sicker – The Shocking Truth About Subclinical Hypothyroidism with McCall McPherson | 20 Nov 2025 | 00:14:58 | |
What if your “normal” thyroid labs are anything but normal—and the symptoms you’re told to ignore are actually warning signs to act now? In this solo episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness, host McCall McPherson delivers a passionate and research-backed message on the overlooked dangers of subclinical hypothyroidism. Often labeled as “mild” due to its definition—elevated TSH with normal T4—this condition is far from benign for many patients. McCall dives into the flaws in conventional guidelines that delay treatment until symptoms worsen or labs change, ignoring the lived experience of countless individuals. Drawing on both clinical expertise and personal insights, McCall outlines the potential consequences of under-treatment, including mental health decline, metabolic issues, and autoimmune progression. She makes a compelling case for earlier, personalized intervention and combination therapies that include T3—not just the standard levothyroxine. This episode is a call to action for patients and providers alike to rethink what subclinical really means, and to prioritize outcomes over outdated lab thresholds. 🔑 Key Topics Covered
📣 Episode Takeaways
🎧 Listen Now & Share! If this episode resonated with you or someone you care about, please share it. Subscribe to Modern Thyroid and Wellness on your favorite podcast app and leave a review to help others discover this critical information. 📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel 📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa | |||
| 57: When Your Body Says “Enough” – Thyroid Chaos, Toxins, and Nervous System Healing with Taylor Dukes | 13 Nov 2025 | 00:35:24 | |
Could hidden toxins, stress, and gut imbalances be at the root of your thyroid issues—and the reason true healing still feels out of reach? In this powerful episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness, host McCall sits down with Taylor Dukes, a board-certified nurse practitioner and founder of Taylor Dukes Wellness. Taylor shares her deeply personal and inspiring story—one that began with her own health collapse, transformed through functional medicine, and took a dramatic turn when she was unexpectedly diagnosed with a brain tumor. Her journey through healing, brain surgery, and recovery has led her to become a powerful advocate for integrative care, nervous system regulation, and detoxification. They discuss the connections between thyroid health, gut function, toxin overload, and emotional regulation. Taylor also breaks down practical, sustainable detox strategies, the role of nervous system support in chronic illness, and how women can learn to advocate for themselves in a healthcare system that often overlooks them. Whether you're navigating thyroid issues, burnout, or simply looking for holistic lifestyle upgrades, this episode is packed with hope, insight, and actionable advice. Key Topics Covered:
Connect with Taylor Dukes:
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| 56: Your Eyes Are Talking to Your Hormones – The Hidden Connection Between Vision, Sleep & Stress with Dr. Meenal Agarwal | 06 Nov 2025 | 00:34:40 | |
Could your daily screen time be quietly disrupting your hormones, vision, and emotional balance without you realizing it? In this episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness, McCall sits down with Dr. Meenal Agarwal, a board-certified optometrist, to explore the powerful connection between eye health, brain function, hormonal balance, and digital wellness. Drawing on her personal story and clinical insights, Dr. Agarwal explains how our modern, screen-filled lives are impacting everything from sleep to stress to spatial awareness. You'll learn how blue light exposure disrupts hormone cycles, why early presbyopia is on the rise, and how the eyes offer a window into systemic health—including thyroid disorders. Plus, Dr. Agarwal shares simple but transformative strategies like the 20-20-20 rule, visual breaks, and mindful movement to protect your eyes, brain, and emotional regulation. Whether you're a chronic screen scroller or noticing subtle shifts in your vision, this conversation will empower you to take better care of your whole self—starting with your eyes. 👩⚕️ About Dr. Meenal Agarwal Dr. Meenal Agarwal is a board-certified optometrist and the founder of Uncover Your Eye, a podcast and platform championing the role of vision in cognition, spatial awareness, and long-term health. Diagnosed with glaucoma at age 11, Dr. Agarwal brings both personal experience and deep clinical knowledge to her unique, holistic approach—blending optometry, mindfulness, and lifestyle medicine to improve lives in a screen-dominated world. 🔑 Key Topics Covered
✅ Practical Tools & Advice
🧠 Eye-Opening Facts
🔗 Links & Resources 🌐 Dr. Minal Agarwal
🎙️ Podcast Host – McCall McPherson
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| 55: Can the “Love Hormone” Heal Your Skin? – The Science of Oxytocin & Emotional Beauty with Dr. Sabrina Fabi | 30 Oct 2025 | 00:38:17 | |
Can your thyroid and hormones really influence how your skin ages—or could your emotional health be part of the glow you’re missing? In this insightful episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness, host McCall sits down with internationally renowned dermatologist Dr. Sabrina Fabi to explore the powerful intersection of thyroid health, skin aging, and emotional well-being. Drawing from both clinical expertise and her personal health journey, Dr. Fabi unpacks how hormonal imbalances—especially thyroid dysfunction—can deeply affect the skin, hair, and connective tissue. She also introduces us to the incredible science of oxytocin, the “love hormone,” and how it plays a surprising role in healing, emotional resilience, and even skin regeneration. As the founder of XOMD, a skincare line formulated with oxytocin, Dr. Fabi brings a fresh perspective on how beauty and medicine can work together to promote deep self-connection, healing, and confidence. Whether you’re facing thyroid-related skin issues or simply curious about the root causes of visible aging, this episode delivers science-backed, soul-nourishing insights for every listener. About Dr. Sabrina Fabi Dr. Sabrina Fabi is a board-certified dermatologist, international speaker, clinical researcher, and pioneer in laser and aesthetic dermatology. She’s globally recognized for her work in cosmetic skin rejuvenation and is the founder of XOMD, an oxytocin-based skincare line focused on supporting both emotional and physical well-being. Key Topics Covered
Featured Resource XOMD Skincare Dr. Fabi’s oxytocin-based skincare line designed to support both skin regeneration and emotional wellness. 👉 Get 10% off with code MCCALL10XO at xomdskin.com Links and Resources: 💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 🎥 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel 📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram (Host): @mccallmcphersonpa 💼 Connect with Dr. Sabrina Fabi on LinkedIn | |||