Rethinking heart health, one question at a time.
I’m Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj—interventional cardiologist, functional medicine expert, and lifelong student of what really keeps us well. In this podcast, we go beyond prescriptions and procedures to explore the deeper drivers of health, disease, and healing.
From inflammation to intuition, cholesterol to consciousness, I sit down with doctors, researchers, and changemakers who are reshaping how we think about the heart—and the whole human behind it.
Whether you're a fellow clinician, a health seeker, or someone navigating your own transformation, this show will challenge what you thought you knew—and invite you to stay curious.
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The Missing Foundation of Health: Minerals, Mitochondria & Energy
Episode 15
Thursday, May 28, 2026 • Duration 01:05:08
What if the reason you feel tired, foggy, inflamed, or depleted isn’t stress, aging, or hormones… but something much more foundational?
In this episode of The Curious Cardiologist Podcast, Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj sits down with Carol Allen, CEO and co-founder of Beam Minerals, to explore one of the most overlooked topics in modern health: minerals.
Together, they unpack why mineral deficiencies may be contributing to fatigue, poor sleep, muscle cramps, hormone imbalance, brain fog, gut issues, stress resilience, and even mitochondrial dysfunction.
They also dive into the science of humic and fulvic minerals, why delivery matters more than simply taking supplements, and whether modern food systems are leaving us fundamentally depleted.
Topics covered include:
In this episode:
Why minerals are foundational to human health
The connection between electrolytes, heart health, and energy
Brain fog, fatigue, hormones, sleep & mineral depletion
Why modern soil and food may be less nutrient dense
The hidden problem with conventional electrolyte drinks
Humic vs. fulvic minerals explained simply
How minerals impact mitochondria and cellular energy
Detoxification, glyphosate, heavy metals & environmental exposures
Why some supplements don’t actually get into your cells
What mineral testing can (and can’t) tell you
Key Takeaway:
You can’t build health on depleted foundations. Minerals may be one of the most overlooked pieces of the wellness puzzle.
Chapters / Timestamps
00:00 – Introduction: Why minerals matter 02:45 – Fatigue, brain fog & hidden deficiencies 08:30 – Why food may no longer be enough 14:00 – Soil depletion & modern agriculture 24:30 – What are humic & fulvic minerals? 35:00 – How minerals actually get into cells 42:00 – The truth about electrolyte drinks 48:30 – Mineral testing: blood vs hair vs tissue 55:00 – The future of mineral replenishment 1:00:00 – Rapid fire questions
When Did Doctors Stop Being Doctors? | Apr 01, 2026
Episode 14
Wednesday, April 1, 2026 • Duration 31:10
In this episode, Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj explores the decline of genuine doctor-patient connection, systemic issues in healthcare, and how a systems biology approach can transform medical practice. He shares personal experiences and insights on restoring empathy, curiosity, and holistic care in medicine.
Interested in joining my U360 Membeship? Go to doctorsanjay.com to sign up!
"When did doctors stop being doctors?" "Connection is more important than ever" "Inflammation drives most chronic diseases"
Chapters
00:00 Welcome to Season Two 00:58 The Shift from Provider to Consumer 02:53 The Disconnection in Doctor-Patient Relationships 09:03 The Challenges of Modern Medicine 12:00 The Fragmentation of Care 17:48 The Importance of Lifestyle in Health 20:51 The Role of Curiosity and Listening in Medicine 27:00 The Future of Medicine: Connecting with Patients
Ayurveda and Elemental Design: Ancient Healing for Modern Medicine
Episode 13
Sunday, February 1, 2026 • Duration 01:04:00
In this episode of The Curious Cardiologist, Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj sits down with Dr. Shivani Gupta, PhD in Ayurvedic medicine, founder of Fusionary Formulas, and author of The Inflammation Code.
Together, they explore why Ayurveda — a 5,000-year-old system of medicine — may be more relevant than ever in a modern world defined by chronic inflammation, burnout, disrupted circadian rhythms, and one-size-fits-all wellness trends.
This conversation bridges ancient wisdom and modern science, reframing inflammation, gut health, sleep, fasting, and metabolic health through the lens of personalized, lifestyle-based medicine.
If you’ve ever felt like you’re “doing all the right things” but still feel off — this episode is for you.
👇 Watch until the end for practical, simple ways to apply Ayurveda to your daily life.
⏱️ Chapters / Timestamps
00:01 – Welcome & introduction to Dr. Shivani Gupta 01:44 – What Ayurveda really is (and why it aligns with functional medicine) 02:57 – Doshas as the original personalized medicine 04:14 – Elemental Design: air, fire, earth explained 06:15 – Vata (air): anxiety, gut issues, grounding strategies 08:53 – Pitta (fire): inflammation, burnout, cooling the system 10:21 – Kapha (earth): metabolism, weight, mood, movement 12:36 – How seasons & life events shift your constitution 15:06 – Ayurveda vs genomics: two paths to personalization 18:20 – Why intermittent fasting & trends don’t work for everyone 22:44 – Why Ayurveda matters more than ever today 26:14 – Micro-rituals to reset the nervous system 29:17 – Tongue scraping, oil pulling, dry brushing, self-massage 35:34 – Food timing & the Ayurvedic circadian diet 37:41 – Super spices & the science of turmeric 50:46 – Supplement quality & why formulation matters 54:33 – Dr. Gupta’s Top 5 Ayurveda “Start Here” moves 59:01 – Rapid-fire questions (nachos, Italy, race cars) 01:01:54 – Where to find Dr. Gupta + listener discount 01:02:38 – Final thoughts & outro
Doctors Diagnose, Coaches Activate: The Future of Patient Care with Sandra Scheinbaum PhD
Episode 12
Thursday, December 18, 2025 • Duration 58:00
In this episode of The Curious Cardiologist, Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj sits down with Sandra Scheinbaum, PhD, founder and CEO of the Functional Medicine Coaching Academy (FMCA), to explore why health coaching may be the most underutilized—and most powerful—tool in modern healthcare.
Together, they unpack the growing gap between what doctors say and what patients actually do, why behavior change is so difficult even when people know what’s “right,” and how trained health coaches dramatically improve outcomes for chronic disease, mental health, and lifestyle-related conditions.
Dr. Scheinbaum shares her journey from psychology and mind‑body medicine to founding FMCA, explains the science behind health coaching, and outlines how coaches integrate seamlessly into medical teams without replacing physicians. The conversation also tackles physician burnout, patient non‑adherence, Medicare reimbursement, and the future of collaborative care.
This episode is essential listening for clinicians, health system leaders, coaches, and anyone interested in sustainable health transformation.
Key Topics Covered
Why the U.S. healthcare system struggles with outcomes despite record spending
The communication gap between doctors and patients
What health coaches actually do (and what they don’t)
Why doctors are not trained to create behavior change
The psychology of motivation, self‑efficacy, and lifestyle change
Evidence and randomized trials supporting health coaching
Health coaching for cardiometabolic disease, autoimmunity, mental health, and GLP‑1 users
How health coaches reduce physician burnout
Group coaching, community medicine, and peer support models
Scope, certification, and avoiding “bad actors” in coaching
Medicare reimbursement and collaborative care models
Becoming a health coach: training, certification, and career paths
Episode Show Notes
Sandra Scheinbaum, PhDFounder & CEO, Functional Medicine Coaching AcademyCertified through the Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM)
The Perimenopause Reset: Anxiety, Brain Fog, and Hormones Explained with Dr. Jen
Episode 11
Wednesday, December 3, 2025 • Duration 01:01:40
In this episode, Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj speaks with Dr. Jennifer Pfleghaar about her transition from emergency medicine to integrative medicine, focusing on the importance of lifestyle changes, the challenges of conventional medicine, and the need for personalized care, especially in women's health during perimenopause. They discuss the impact of pharmaceuticals, the role of hormones, and the significance of education in health. Dr. Jen also shares insights from her book, 'The Perimenopause Reset,' which aims to help women navigate this critical phase of life.
Takeaways
Dr. Jen transitioned to integrative medicine after seeing chronic disease in the ER. Conventional medicine often fails to address root causes of health issues. 90% of ER visits are related to chronic diseases. Hashimoto's thyroiditis can be reversed with lifestyle changes. Preventive care is lacking in the current healthcare system. Hormonal imbalances can significantly affect women's health. Bioidentical hormones are safer than synthetic alternatives. Education is crucial for patients to understand their health. Environmental factors can impact hormonal health. The Perimenopause Reset book provides a holistic approach to women's health.
Chapters
00:00 Transitioning to Integrative Medicine 03:02 The Role of Nutrition in Emergency Medicine 06:11 Chronic Diseases and Conventional Medicine 08:46 The Disconnect in Patient Care 12:04 The Importance of Prevention 15:00 The Impact of Pharmaceuticals on Health 17:58 Motivational Interviewing in Patient Care 21:13 The Challenges of Hormone Replacement Therapy 23:57 Bioidentical Hormones vs. Synthetic Hormones 33:53 Understanding Hormonal Changes in Women 34:51 The Importance of Hormone Replacement Therapy 37:23 Navigating Hormone Testing and Medical Advice 38:03 The Risks of Self-Medication with Hormones 40:14 The Dangers of Hormone Pellets43:32 The Need for Proper Medical Oversight45:34 The Role of Continuous Learning in Medicine51:01 The Holistic Approach to Perimenopause54:11 The Impact of Environmental Factors on Hormones56:41 Finding the Right Practitioner for Hormonal Health
Genomic Medicine, Not Guesswork: How Your Genes Shape Diet, Drugs & Supplements
Episode 10
Tuesday, November 18, 2025 • Duration 01:05:24
In this episode of The Curious Cardiologist, Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj MD sits down with pharmacologist and genomic medicine specialist Dr. Tyler Panzner to unpack how your genes shape your response to diet, medications, and supplements.
They explore the difference between genetics vs genomics, why one-size-fits-all nutrition advice (keto, carnivore, vegan) can be dangerous, and how polygenic risk scores and pathway-based genomics can guide truly precision nutrition and precision medicine. From vitamin D that never budges, to oxalate kidney stones, to why berberine may not be as “innocent” as Instagram says, this episode pulls back the curtain on the wild west of supplements.
If you’ve ever wondered why your labs don’t change, why one cup of coffee wrecks you, or why your “clean” supplement stack makes you feel worse, this conversation is for you.
Guest: Dr. Tyler Panzner
Dr. Tyler Panzner, PhD is a pharmacologist specializing in genomic medicine and supplement pharmacology. He helps individuals and clinicians use comprehensive genomic data to personalize diet, lifestyle, and supplementation—focusing on bottom-up molecular pathways rather than fear-based, top-down disease labels.
[00:00] Welcome to The Curious Cardiologist & Guest Intro Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj MD introduces pharmacologist and genomic medicine specialist Dr. Tyler Panzner. [01:20] VHS, Blockbuster & the Hallmarks of Aging (Fun Cold Open) Light banter on VHS, rewinding tapes, and joking about “hallmarks of aging.” [02:25] Genetics vs Genomics: What’s the Difference? Tyler explains genetics (single variants) vs genomics (your entire genetic “book”) and polygenic risk scores. [04:30] Why One-Size-Fits-All Diets Fail: Keto, Carnivore, Vegan & Your Genes How saturated fat response, ancestry, and LDL genetics change who thrives or crashes on keto/carnivore. Oxalate sensitivity, kidney stones, and why some people truly struggle with spinach and plant “defense chemicals.” Why some vegans feel amazing for 6–12 weeks, then crash when conditional amino acids run low. 9,400+ mutations tied to creatine production; why some people need more animal foods or very targeted supplements. How hormones and micronutrient gaps drive cravings, “food noise,” and self-blame. Genes vs gene expression vs proteins—and why genotype ≠ destiny. Tyler’s “bottom-up” approach: focusing on linear pathways like glutathione, vitamin D, neurotransmitters, etc. Chronic low vitamin D, CYP2R1 variants, gallbladder issues, and why megadoses sometimes don’t work—and may backfire. COMT and MAO variants, adrenaline sensitivity, and why some folks overthink, get anxious, or “overflow” on stimulants. How “healthy” supplements (curcumin, resveratrol, quercetin, rhodiola, berberine, methylene blue) can trigger anxiety in sensitive people. Why berberine can affect CYP3A4, statin metabolism, and cardiometabolic patients. Tyler’s story of massive supplement stacks, elevated liver enzymes, and why “liver support” can still stress the liver. Clean manufacturing vs how a supplement in your body: iron chelation, neurotransmitters, hormones, liver enzymes. Comparing drug oversight to the “wild west” of AI-generated wellness brands and TikTok supplements. Full supplement audits, using products, and when something is truly lifelong (e.g., pre-activated vitamin D). Using targeted supplements to get people out of a rut—but never as a replacement for sleep, movement, and real food. Surf & turf, Tampa memories, and why he sees music as “acousticeuticals” and real epigenetic medicine. Where to find him online, plus how to think about genomic testing & interpretation. How to choose good genomic testing, why interpretation matters, and where to subscribe and leave comments.
The Menopause Metabolic Shift: What Every Woman (and Cardiologist) Should Know
Episode 9
Saturday, November 1, 2025 • Duration 01:03:31
In this eye-opening episode of The Curious Cardiologist, Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj — a recovering interventional cardiologist turned functional medicine physician — sits down with Emily Sadri (APRN, CNM, WHP-BC), a nurse practitioner and certified nurse-midwife who has built a thriving hormone and metabolic health practice.
Together they unpack the real story behind menopause, metabolic decline, and the cardiovascular consequences of ignoring hormone health. Emily shares her journey from hospital midwife to functional practitioner, the “aha” moment that meditation improved her gestational diabetes more than diet ever did, and how the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) study derailed an entire generation’s access to hormone therapy.
They explore:
Why estrogen is far more than a “female hormone” — it’s a vascular, metabolic, and cognitive protector.
How perimenopause is often the hidden root behind rising LDL, fatigue, anxiety, and weight gain.
The difference between oral and transdermal hormones (and why route matters for heart health).
How estrogen loss disrupts nitric oxide production, vagal tone, and even sleep and mood.
Practical lab workups every woman in midlife should request.
Why replacing hormones without fixing lifestyle is like “mopping up the ocean.”
How functional and precision medicine can redefine women’s health and longevity.
Emily and Sanjay weave humor, humility, and heart into a candid conversation that will change how you think about hormones — whether you’re a clinician, a patient, or a partner trying to understand what’s happening behind the scenes of midlife.
🧬 Key Takeaways
Menopause isn’t a single event — it’s a 10–15-year metabolic and hormonal transition that starts in the 30s.
Declining estrogen is directly tied to rising cardiovascular and metabolic risk.
Transdermal estradiol + oral micronized progesterone remain the safest, most physiologic forms of HRT.
Connect with Dr. Leon and MemoryAir at: https://learn.memoryair.com
Summary
In this episode of the Curious Cardiologist Podcast, Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj interviews Dr. Michael Leon about the groundbreaking MemoryAir device, which utilizes olfactory stimulation to enhance brain health and cognitive function. They discuss the science behind olfaction, its connection to memory and emotional centers in the brain, and how olfactory loss can precede cognitive decline in various neurological disorders. Dr. Leon shares insights from clinical studies demonstrating significant improvements in memory and mood through olfactory enrichment, particularly in older adults and children with autism. The conversation explores the potential applications of olfactory therapy in treating a range of health conditions and the importance of continued research in this innovative field.
Takeaways
The olfactory system has direct access to memory and emotional centers in the brain. Olfactory stimulation is crucial for maintaining brain health. Chronic inflammation is linked to olfactory dysfunction and cognitive decline. MemoryAir can significantly improve memory and mood in users. Olfactory loss is a common precursor to various neurological disorders. Pleasant odors can reduce inflammation in the brain. The device provides a passive way to receive olfactory enrichment during sleep. Children with autism showed remarkable improvements with olfactory therapy. Cognitive reserve can help prevent memory loss despite the presence of neurological damage. Future research may expand the applications of olfactory therapy beyond cognitive health.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Olfactory System and Brain Health 02:50 The Importance of Olfactory Stimulation 08:37 Olfactory Loss and Cognitive Decline 09:58 Linking Olfactory Loss to Various Diseases 12:39 Quantifying Olfactory Ability 15:16 Pleasant vs. Unpleasant Smells 18:11 The Unique Role of Smell in Brain Health20:16 Introduction to MemoryAir Device22:55 Clinical Studies and Results of MemoryAir25:51 Device Functionality and User Experience26:04 Innovative Olfactory Therapy Device27:04 Exploring Mental Health Benefits28:32 Olfactory Enrichment in Autism Treatment30:54 Cognitive Reserve and Memory Preservation36:13 Olfactory Therapy for Brain Health38:54 Future Frontiers in Olfactory Research43:55 Commercial Availability and Practical Use
Beyond "You're Just Tired": Jenny Tufenkian on Brainfog, Fatigue, and Healing
Episode 7
Wednesday, October 1, 2025 • Duration 54:37
Why do some people never feel “back to normal” after COVID—or after any major illness—despite normal labs? Dr. Sanjay sits down with naturopathic physician and complex-illness specialist Jenny Tufenkian, ND to explore long COVID and myalgic encephalomyelitis/“chronic fatigue syndrome” (ME/CFS): brain fog, fatigue, post-exertional malaise, mast cell activation, and the mental/emotional toll of being dismissed. They discuss root causes (viral reactivation, immune exhaustion, mitochondrial dysfunction, gut involvement), useful biomarkers (blood–brain barrier and neuroinflammation panels, lymphocyte mapping, herpes-family titers), and Jenny’s Five Foundations (digestion, detox, movement/breath & circadian rhythm, mindset/spirit, and connection). You’ll also hear practical starting points—sleep and gut first for many—and why joy, nature, laughter, and community are not “soft” add-ons but nervous-system medicine. Jenny previews her Long COVID 2.0 Summit featuring leading researchers and clinicians.
Guest
Jenny Tufenkian, ND — Naturopathic physician specializing for 20+ years in complex chronic illness, including long COVID and ME/CFS. She leads patient programs focused on root-cause healing and nervous-system regulation and hosts the Long COVID 2.0 Summit.
Key topics & takeaways
Why complex patients get “spit out” by the system: algorithmic care misses multi-system illness; dismissal often defaults to “it’s depression/anxiety.”
ME/CFS clarified: better termed myalgic encephalomyelitis—neuro-immune inflammation affecting brain and muscle; symptoms wax and wane.
Vagus nerve & autonomic dysregulation: buzzing/vibration sensations, high sympathetic tone; mindset and breathwork matter.
Viral reactivation: EBV/CMV/HHV-6 can hijack mitochondria and evade immunity; consider immune status (over/under-reactive).
The Not Doc: Homes, Light, Emotions and the Hidden Roots of Health
Episode 6
Monday, September 15, 2025 • Duration 01:20:05
In this episode of The Curious Cardiologist Podcast, Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj sits down with Daniel Brown—aka “The Not Doc”—a real estate developer turned health thinker with a radical perspective: nearly all chronic illness can be traced back to lifestyle or emotions.
Together, they dive into how our homes, lighting, water, and environment directly shape our health, and why paying attention to these often-overlooked factors may be just as important as diet and exercise. Daniel shares how he evolved from building houses to building healthier houses—and why feeling safe, supported, and aligned in your own space is essential for well-being.
Highlights of the conversation include:
🏠 Healthy Homes: Why modern houses may be harming us—and the design tweaks that can restore balance.
💡 Light as Medicine: How artificial light disrupts circadian rhythms, hormones, and metabolism—and how to fix it.
💧 Water Wisdom: Filters, remineralization, and why your shower might matter more than your drinking glass.
🧠 The Power of Emotions: Daniel’s personal story of reversing autoimmune pain by addressing unresolved trauma.
⚡ Two Root Causes: Why most chronic disease comes down to lifestyle or emotional health—and how you can reclaim control.
🌱 Simple First Steps: From adding electrolytes to walking outside, unsexy habits often beat expensive hacks.
This episode blends functional medicine, evolutionary biology, and real-world practicality into a fresh lens on what it truly means to live well.
[01:06:30] Sanjay’s Final Thoughts & Call to Action
Vaginal estrogen reduces UTI risk and supports the vaginal microbiome — even in breast-cancer survivors.
The “menopausal machismo” mindset of “toughing it out” may actually shorten lifespan and healthspan.
Functional medicine and hormone therapy must work together — lifestyle, nutrition, sleep, and stress are the foundation.
🧪 Guest Bio
Emily Sadri, APRN, CNM, WHP-BC is a board-certified nurse practitioner, women’s health specialist, and former midwife who now leads Aurelia Health, a telehealth practice focused on personalized hormone therapy and metabolic medicine for women in midlife and beyond. Her mission is to redefine menopause care through education, precision hormones, and holistic root-cause healing. 🔗 Connect with Emily:
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