Seeking Voices of Health, Healing & Hope

Are you tired of nutritional misinformation and confusing fad diets? Dive into a science-backed discussion with Dr. Michelle Cardel, the Chief Nutrition Officer at Weight Watchers, who reveals the rigorous research driving the brand's evolution into a holistic health program. Discover the startling truth about health inequities in multilingual resources, learn why culturally tailored nutrition is crucial for success, and understand WW's progressive strategy for supporting members using GLP-1 medications. Learn more about evidence-based weight loss strategies needed for sustainable well-being for yourself and your family.

In this compelling episode, board-certified breast cancer surgeon Dr. Kristi Funk shares her personal and professional journey, from traditional surgery to an advocate for holistic, plant-based medicine. She reveals the powerful role of lifestyle choices, including diet, exercise, and hormones, in preventing and combating breast cancer. Dr. Funk dispels common myths about foods like soy and dairy, offering science-backed insights for a healthier, more empowered life. Tune in to discover how you can actively take control of your breast health and reduce your cancer risk. PcxWbG6lsvMpLOY403YJ

Dive into the science of longevity with Dr. Michael Greger, the renowned physician and author of the "How Not to Die" series. In this episode, Dr. Greger shares the powerful personal story that launched his career and passion for plant-based nutrition. Learn about the "Daily Dozen" checklist of foods and habits that can transform your health, and hear his perspective on the state of nutrition science and the power of a healthy diet to prevent and reverse chronic diseases.

In this episode, Dr. Monica Agarwal sits down with Dr. Gina Lundberg, a leading cardiologist and expert in women's heart health, to demystify the complex relationship between menopause and cardiovascular disease. They tackle a range of critical topics, from understanding the subtle symptoms of heart attacks in women to the latest research on hormone replacement therapy and its timing. Dr. Lundberg sheds light on how to navigate this crucial life stage with your heart in mind, providing essential information on the safest and most effective treatment options.

Dr. Monica Aggarwal sits down with Dr. Michael Vallis, a leading health psychologist specializing in chronic disease management. They delve into the pervasive impact of "diet culture" and discuss how to shift focus from mere numbers to sustainable behavioral change. Dr. Vallis shares invaluable insights on self-compassion, navigating hunger cues, and practical strategies to overcome barriers in your health journey.

Dive deep into the science of strength and fitness with Dr. Brad Schoenfeld, a leading authority on muscle hypertrophy. Discover evidence-based strategies for building muscle effectively at any age, optimizing your training for growth, and understanding the nuances of progressive overload. The conversation also explores fascinating topics like maximizing cardiovascular fitness, the effects of cold water immersion, and insights gained from wearable technology. Tune in for expert advice to elevate your fitness journey. Meet Dr. Brad Schoenfeld, PhD, CSCS, CSPS, FNSCA. Dr. Schoenfeld is a professor of exercise science at Lehman College in the Bronx, New York, where he serves as the graduate director of the Human Performance and Fitness program. He also formerly served as the Sports Nutritionist for the New Jersey Devils hockey organization. Dr. Schoenfeld has published more than 300 peer-reviewed scientific papers on various exercise- and sports nutrition-related topics, and authored the seminal textbook, "Science and Development of Muscle Hypertrophy." He was the recipient of the 2016 Dwight D. Eisenhower Fitness Award, presented by the United States Sports Academy for outstanding achievement in fitness and contributions to the growth and development of sport fitness through outstanding leadership activity, as well as earning the 2018 National Strength and Conditioning Association Young Investigator of the Year Award.

Do you sleep well? Do you ever wonder about those stages on your Aura Ring/Apple Watch/Fitbit? Is there an optimal sleep amount? Is there a one sleep fits all? Meet Dr. Michael Breus who is a clinical psychologist and sleep specialist. With the clever eponym, the sleep doctor, Michael Breus is a sleep guru. Recently named the Top Sleep Specialist in California's Reader’s Digest, and one of the 10 most influential people in sleep, Dr Breus creatively teaches people about why sleep is important and how to achieve good sleep habits. Topics we covered: - Why is sleep important? - Is there an optimal sleep pattern for each person? What are chronotypes related to sleep? - What is a circadian rhythm? - What are the hormones of sleep? - What are the stages of sleep and their significance? Is there one stage we should want more than other? - How do we maximize a sleep stage: more restorative, better for longevity, important for memory - What is the optimal amount of sleep? is it the same for everyone? Why do we sleep less as we age? Do we need less sleep as we age? - How do we create good sleep habits? - What is neuroplasticity and its correlation to sleep? - What do you think of the Apple Watch and Aura rings?

Have you met Heather Borders? Heather is a registered dietitian and focuses on getting patients to use plant-based nutrition to heal their illness. She meets people where they are and gives you the gentle nudges you need to heal your body. In this episode, we learn about Heather as she offers quick tips on change and why we struggle with our foods. Here are some of the topics we discussed: 1. Heather's personal story. How did she become an RD? 2. Credibility in nutrition. How to navigate social media and nutrition advise 3. Why is it hard to change your diet? 4. How should we navigate cooking for one and cooking on a budget. 5. Three changes we can all make and quick! If you are interested in working with Heather, you can schedule an appointment at https://askmonica.me/schedule

"I am not a medical doctor; how do I impact others with healthy eating? How do I impact change?" Meet James Beard Chef Hari Pulapaka and Podiatrist Dr. Jenneffer Pulapaka: A married couple trying to impact healthy changes in their patients, one bite at a time. They are a dynamic duo who focus on plant forward nutrition and healthy living in their respective areas of business. Whether, it is while teaching people how to cook, Hari brings in healthy tips and asks the questions of why we choose the foods we do. When it is foot health, Dr. Jennifer talks about how to use complex carbohydrates instead of refined ones to reduce their diabetes and improve their foot health. Topics we discussed: - What motivates a chef and a podiatrist to want to change how people eat? - What does change mean? - What are simple things people can do to change their diet? - Hari and Jenneffer have written a new book about heart healthy plant-based eating. What were your goals in writing this? - Does eating healthy have to be hard? How can we make this simple and easy? - How do you encourage people to change? Join us for another great episode of Seek Voices: Exploring the Science of Health and Healing

How many times have you heard from a doctor that you need to eat better and exercise for better health? Well, those of us who have been told this, know that it is much easier said than done. Introducing Dr. Liz Klodas, a preventive cardiologist who created a food company to offer people a "step one" to make changes in their diet. She understands that it is hard to change and that sometimes having options that you can take out of the refrigerator or pantry that are healthful can get you started and on your way. I can't wait for you all to hear my friend, Dr. Liz Klodas, talk about her journey as a cardiologist who decided to start a food company.

How does the grandson of the Baskin Robbins empire become a plant-based educator, believer and CEO of the food revolution network? Meet Ocean Robbins and join me as we chat about his journey and where he is making a difference. Topics we discuss include: What is it to follow your own star? What are three things you were taught growing up? Do we naturally have the “inherent desire to serve?” Are we born with compassion? What does healthy living look like to you? Is there a point where you can’t change your diet? Grandson of Irv Robbins, cofounder of Baskin-Robbins Ice cream, Ocean Robbins is co-founder & CEO of the million-member Food Revolution Network. He is author of the bestsellers, 31-Day Food Revolution and Real Superfoods. Ocean founded Youth for Environmental Sanity (YES!) at age 16, and directed it for the next 20 years. He has spoken in person to more than 250,000 people, organized online seminars and events reaching more than a million, and facilitated leadership development events for leaders from 65 nations. He has served as adjunct professor for Chapman University, and is a recipient of the national Jefferson Award for Outstanding Public Service, the Freedom’s Flame Award, the Harmon Wilkinson Award, and many other honors. His TEDx talk, Eating Our Way To Happiness, has been seen by more than a million people.

Have you considered how you want to age and how you want to die? How do you make sure that you focus on quality and not quantity of life?  Meet Amy O'Rourke who is an aging specialist and care advisor for families as they age. She has written a great book called The Fragile Years that I highly recommend for anyone has an aging parent. Key Areas We Discuss: - Why are we in an "Aging Crisis"? - What are the fragile years, and how do you know if a loved one is there? - How do you prepare to enter the fragile years? - How do you reconcile aging with dignity and aging safely? - What is the best way to age? In place? Around family? In nursing care? What if “aging in place” is unsafe and parents don’t want to move because of friends and they are where they have always been? - How do we make peace with aging and dying? - How to avoid becoming a burnt out caregiver? - What is a good death? - 3 things can we take away to do a better job with our aging and our parents’ aging?

Why Should You Care how Food is grown? What could that possibly have to do with your health? Meet Mr. John Rivers, the founder and owner for 4Rivers smokehouses in Southeast Florida. Through his foundation, he and his wife have started a nonprofit farm called 4Roots Farm that is focuses on unearthing the power of food for human health. https://4roots.org

What is the difference between aging well and simply aging? Have you considered what longevity means and what aging means without vitality? Meet Babette Davis, globally recognized plant-based chef, fitness enthusiast and motivational speaker who calls Inglewood, Ca home. She pioneered the first plant-based restaurant, “Stuff I Eat” in her community in the early 2000’s where she still receives visitors from around the world. Once a hairstylist, Babette became a self-taught chemist in the kitchen, perfecting eating healthy while keeping the flavor of her dishes the focal point. Her combination of thoughtful food preparation with an intense fitness regimen has made her one of the most sought-after experts in her field. While in her 70s, she motivates people of all ages to live their best life. Topics we discuss include: - Fitness and aging - The role of plant based eating in Chef Babette’s life - Chef Babette’s aging secrets - The fear of aging - Supplements - How to motivate change - A day in the life of Chef Babette - How to live your best life

Have you ever wondered about why you can't lose weight? Have you thought that your metabolism is just too slow to lose weight? Join me as I speak to New York Times Bestselling Author and preeminent doctor, Dr. William Li. William W. Li, MD, is an internationally renowned physician, scientist and author of the New York Times bestseller “Eat to Beat Disease: The New Science of How Your Body Can Heal Itself.” His groundbreaking research has led to the development of more than 30 new medical treatments that impact care for more than 70 diseases including diabetes, blindness, heart disease and obesity. His TED Talk, “Can We Eat to Starve Cancer?” has garnered more than 11 million views. Dr. Li has appeared on Good Morning America, CNN, CNBC, Rachael Ray and Live with Kelly & Ryan, and he has been featured in USA Today, Time Magazine, The Atlantic, O Magazine and more. He is President and Medical Director of the Angiogenesis Foundation, and he is leading global initiatives on food as medicine. His newest book New York Times bestseller, “Eat to Beat Your Diet: Burn Fat, Heal Your Metabolism, and Live Longer,” was released March 21, 2023.

I had the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Mark Corriere and Dr. Rita Kalyani. They are both diabetes specialists who have written a lovely book called "Winning with Diabetes: Inspiring stories to help you thrive" which I enjoyed talking to them about. Dr. Mark D. Corriere, MD (BALTIMORE, MD), is an adjunct assistant professor of medicine at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and a clinical endocrinologist at Maryland Endocrine. Dr. Rita R. Kalyani, MD, MHS(BALTIMORE, MD), is an associate professor of medicine and a diabetes specialist at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. She is the past chair of the American Diabetes Association's committee that establishes the standards of medical care for all people with diabetes. Kalyani and Corriere are coauthors of Diabetes Head to Toe: Everything You Need to Know about Diagnosis, Treatment, and Living with Diabetes. Patrick Smith (BALTIMORE, MD) is a biomedical science writer at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. He is the author of Extra Innings: The Joy and the Pains of Over-30 Baseball Essential reading for people who have diabetes and their families, Winning with Diabetes highlights the challenges, perseverance, and successes of sixteen elite athletes living with the disease. From mountain climber Will Cross, to college softball champion Kylee Perez, to NBA legend Dominique Wilkins, and many more, these are the real-life stories of diagnosis, adapting new day-to-day routines, finding support, training, competing, and connecting with communities of other people living with diabetes. The book features advice for facing common fears and challenges, both on and off the playing field. Each chapter includes interviews with athletes about their experiences, paired with expert commentary from the authors. Chapters also include summaries of key concepts, along with illustrations and other graphics. Winning with Diabetes will inspire readers of all ages—those newly diagnosed as well as those who have lived with diabetes for years. Written by physicians who have set the standards for management of the disease, this book brings you expert insight into finding ways to live your best life. Let the experts, the athletes, and the inspiration in Winning with Diabetes give you what you need to you stay in the game.

Anxiety affects 31% of the American population and this number is increasing. People are noticing more and more anxious feelings, nervousness, depression and inability to cope with day to day activities. Understanding your anxiety is an important first step to building resilience. Join me as I speak to Dr. Carol Lewis who speaks to us about our emotional health and tools we can use to keep ourselves strong and more capable of dealing with life’s surprises.

Do have challenges learning? Join me as I discuss Learning How to Learn with Dr. Barbara Oakley. We'll cover illusions of learning, memory techniques, dealing with procrastination, and best practices shown by research to be most effective in helping you master tough subjects. Dr. Oakley’s research has been described as “revolutionary” in the Wall Street Journal. She is a New York Times best-selling author who has published in outlets as varied as the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the Wall Street Journal, and The New York Times. Her book A Mind for Numbers, on effective learning in STEM disciplines, has sold over a million copies worldwide; Uncommon Sense Teaching is a critically praised guide to teaching based on insights from neuroscience.

I had a great time speaking with Brenda Davis and Vesanto Melina. They are fabulous dietitians who are very well known in the nutrition field. They took me on a deep dive into the world of protein. We discussed a number of topics such as plant-based vs animal proteins, protein needs for children/seniors/athletes, and we knocked over a few myths along the way. All this info is in their new book, "Plant Powered Protein" (https://amzn.to/44k5Np2), and worth picking up.

Julieanna Hever speaks about her struggles with her weight and eating and how that helps her when she works with patients. I was most intrigued by her “Choose You Now Diet” book. I love the title and what that stands for. Choose you now. Very important to choose you. Ms. Hever is a registered dietitian with a Masters of Science degree in Nutrition. She has authored seven books including Choose You Now Diet, The Healthspan Solution, Plant-Based Nutrition (Idiots Guide) and Vegiterranean Diet. She is a regular columnist on Veg News, has given a TEDx talk and been on many television shows talking about healthy eating.  She works with clients individually who come to her to work on weight loss, food addiction and reducing chronic illness. She develops a detailed plan with her clients to affect change. Her results are amazing. https://plantbaseddietitian.com/