Ask The Good Doctor

Independence begins when people are given the tools, support, and opportunity to care for themselves. In this episode of Ask the Good Doctor, Dr. LaJoyce Brookshire welcomes Lori Astwood, founder and CEO of the Richard Astwood Jr. Autism Culinary Institute. Lori shares the story of her son Richard—affectionately known as “Big Dude”—and how his love of food and cooking inspired her to teach him responsibility, self-reliance, and essential life skills. Following Richard’s passing in 2020, Lori transformed her grief into purpose by creating an institute in his honor. Today, she provides hands-on culinary workshops for members of the intellectual disability—or ID—community, teaching participants how to prepare nutritious meals, follow recipes, shop for food, and become more independent. Lori and Dr. Brookshire also discuss the lack of programs available to adults with intellectual disabilities, the importance of including caregivers in the learning process, employment opportunities within the restaurant industry, and why every person deserves the dignity of participating fully in life. For more Information Lori Astwood Founder and CEO Richard Astwood Jr. Autism Culinary Institute Email: [email protected] Phone: 570-234-4689 Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion app.

On this episode of Ask the Good Doctor, DoctorLaJoyce Brookshire welcomes Tim James, founder and CEO of Chemical Free Body, to share the personal health crisis that transformed his approach to wellness. After struggling with weight gain, chronic stress, acid reflux, painful skin issues, digestive problems, and emergency surgery, Tim realized that something had to change. Tim discusses the lifestyle shifts he credits with improving his health, including reducing processed foods, drinking green juices, choosing fresh and locally grown produce, growing sprouts at home, and paying closer attention to the ingredients in food and personal-care products. He also explains why managing stress, creating healthier daily habits, and leading by example are essential parts of his wellness philosophy. The conversation explores practical ways to make more intentional choices, why ingredients matter, and how our health affects not only us but also the people who love and depend on us. Visit ChemicalFreeBody.com and use the code DoctorLaJoyce when purchasing a savings bundle to receive an additional discount. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion app.

On this episode of Ask The Good Doctor, Dr. LaJoyce Brookshire welcomes Dr. Gabrielle Oliveira for an important conversation about the intersection of immigration, education, and the emotional well-being of immigrant children. Dr. Oliveira explores the realities immigrant children and families face as they navigate schools while also living with the uncertainty and emotional impact of immigration policies. She explains why classrooms must be more than places of academic learning—they must also be safe spaces where children feel seen, supported, and able to express what they are experiencing. The conversation examines the critical role teachers and educators can play in supporting immigrant families, the importance of community and empathy, and why policies affecting immigration must consider the very real impact they have on children. At the heart of this discussion is a reminder that behind every immigration debate are children, families, classrooms, and communities living with the consequences of the decisions being made. Find more conversations about health, wellness, and the issues affecting our communities on the Mean Ole Lion app.

Grief changes us—but healing reminds us we don't have to walk the journey alone. On this episode of Ask the Good Doctor, Dr. LaJoyce Brookshire welcomes author and educator Dr. Pakola Roberts for a deeply moving conversation about love, loss, and finding hope after unimaginable heartbreak. Following the passing of her daughter, Dr. Roberts turned to writing as a path toward healing, creating her book, It's Going to Be All Right, to help others navigate the difficult road of grief. Together, they discuss the importance of confronting painful memories instead of avoiding them, the therapeutic power of putting emotions into words, and why acknowledging death is an essential part of the healing process. Dr. Roberts also shares the challenges of navigating the "year of firsts," the comfort found in community, and how connecting with others who have experienced loss can provide strength, understanding, and hope. Whether you're grieving the loss of a loved one or supporting someone through their healing journey, this heartfelt conversation offers compassion, encouragement, and the reminder that healing doesn't mean forgetting—it means learning to move forward with love. Listen now and discover why sometimes the greatest medicine is simply knowing you're not alone.

Could the healthy foods on your plate be hiding an unexpected health risk? In this episode of Ask the Good Doctor, Dr. LaJoyce Brookshire shines a light on Cyclospora, a microscopic parasite that can contaminate fresh produce and cause serious gastrointestinal illness. She explains how infections occur, the symptoms to watch for, and why even fruits and vegetables labeled "pre-washed" may need extra attention before they reach your table. Dr. Brookshire shares practical, easy-to-follow tips for reducing your risk, including proper produce washing techniques, safe food handling practices, and smart kitchen hygiene habits that can help protect you and your family. She also discusses why prevention is your first line of defense and how a few simple changes in your daily routine can make a significant difference in your overall health. Whether you're preparing meals at home or looking for ways to keep your family safe, this episode delivers valuable information that will help you eat with greater confidence and peace of mind. Find more shows like this on the Mean Ole Lion Media app. Follow, rate, comment, and share! 🥗 Think your salad is safe? Think again.