In this episode of Supplement Source, CRN’s Jeff Ventura sits down with Dr. Mahmoud Ghannoum — microbiome researcher, author, and co-founder of BIOHM Health — to explore how the gut microbiome influences healthy aging, immunity, and even mood. From the “good guys” in your gut to anti-aging strategies rooted in science, Dr. Ghannoum explains how rebalancing your microbiome can improve digestion, skin health, cognition, and longevity. Tune in for practical insights, fascinating data from ...
In this episode of Supplement Source, CRN’s Jeff Ventura talks with 2025 CAPS Scholars Huyen Le, Ben Levine, and past scholar Sam Fessler about how CRN’s Campus to Career (CAPS) Program helps bridge the gap between academic research and the dietary supplement industry. The scholars share how attending Science in Session and Convergence offered mentorship, networking, and real-world insights that expanded their career horizons—showing how scientists can carry their research skills into impactf...
In this episode of Supplement Source, CRN’s Jeff Ventura sits down again with Ajay Patel, CEO of Verdure Sciences, and Isabella Bucklew, the company’s Sustainability Coordinator, to explore Verdegration—Verdure’s comprehensive sustainability platform. The conversation covers everything from the company’s early roots in ethical sourcing to its expansive farmer programs and new headquarters initiatives in Noblesville, Indiana. Listeners will learn how Verdure’s turmeric procurement program has ...
In this episode of Supplement Source, host Jeff Ventura (Council for Responsible Nutrition) sits down with Gregory Drew, VP of Innovation at Vitaquest and a leader of the company’s VQ Cares initiative. Together, they explore how Vitaquest is tackling health equity by manufacturing and donating high-quality multivitamins through partnerships with the National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics (NAFC), as part of CRN's Access Initiative. Greg shares the program’s origin story, its ambit...
Magnesium is more than just another supplement—it’s a powerhouse mineral tied to over 300 biological reactions and essential for energy, sleep, and mood. In this episode of Supplement Source, Jeff Ventura talks with Traci Kantowski, VP of Global Communications at Cypress Minerals, about why magnesium demand is surging, which forms deliver the biggest benefits, and how innovation in delivery formats (from capsules to gummies to functional beverages) is reshaping the market. Whether you’re an i...
In this episode of Supplement Source, CRN’s Jeff Ventura sits down with Danielle Citrolo (VP, Scientific & Regulatory Affairs) and Katie Emerson (Senior Manager, Scientific Affairs) of Kyowa Hakko to explore the latest science on brain health and immune support. From cutting-edge cognitive research on citicoline to the surprising role of glutathione as the “CEO” of antioxidants, the discussion unpacks how nutrition, lifestyle, and supplements intersect to support focus, resilience, and lo...
In this episode of Supplement Source, CRN’s Jeff Ventura sits down with Dr. Luigi Gratton, Vice President of Health and Wellness at Herbalife, to explore the evolving science of metabolic health. They discuss bioactive botanicals like Moro blood orange, hibiscus, lemon verbena, red chili pepper extract, and chromium—and how these ingredients support blood sugar regulation, energy expenditure, and body composition. Dr. Gratton shares insights on clinical research practices, the promise of pers...
What exactly is NAD+ and why is it suddenly everywhere—from supplement bottles to anti-aging headlines? In this episode of Supplement Source, Jeff Ventura sits down with Dr. Andrew Shao, SVP of Global Scientific and Regulatory Affairs at Niagen Bioscience, to demystify the science behind NAD+, its precursors, and why your cells might need a boost. From the impact of stress and aging to the fine line between marketing hype and scientific evidence, this candid conversation cuts through the acro...
Think creatine is just for bodybuilders? Think again. On this episode of Supplement Source, GNC's Brittany Johnson breaks down the science behind one of the most clinically studied ingredients in the supplement space—from its role in cellular energy to its emerging benefits for brain health, healthy aging, and women’s wellness. Whether you're a weekend warrior or just trying to stay sharp, this is your creatine crash course. About the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN) The Council...
In this episode of The Supplement Source, host Jeff Ventura speaks with Lori Westervelt and Elyse Lovett of Eagle Diagnostics about the launch of TruShield Certified—a new third-party certification focused exclusively on banned substance testing. They discuss why this highly specialized program is needed, how it complements existing certifications, and why it's gaining traction with both sports nutrition brands and safety-conscious consumers. Whether you're formulating for elite athletes or e...
In this episode of Supplement Source, host Jeff Ventura sits down with Verdure Sciences CEO Ajay Patel and Sustainability Coordinator Isabella Bucklew to explore what it means to create high-quality botanical ingredients with integrity, transparency, and long-term vision. With nearly three decades in the dietary supplement industry, Verdure has built a globally respected portfolio by committing to Ayurvedic tradition, rigorous science, and on-the-ground sustainability efforts. Ajay shares how...
In this episode of Supplement Source, CRN’s Jeff Ventura sits down with Informa’s Sonja Thompson to unpack SupplySide Fresh—an onboarding and networking program designed specifically for newcomers to the health and nutrition industry. From foundational courses and expert-led video sessions to curated networking events and downloadable industry guides, learn how this initiative is equipping future supplement industry leaders with the knowledge and connections they need to thrive. Whether you'r...
In this episode of Supplement Source, Jeff Ventura, VP of Communications at CRN, sits down with Elan Sudberg, CEO of Alkemist Labs, for a bold conversation about the supplement industry’s opportunity to capitalize on its strongest asset—its safety record. From testing labs to public trust, Sudberg argues that the data already exists to reshape the public narrative around supplements, but industry leaders aren’t using it. Tune in as they discuss marketing blind spots, missed ROI, and how repos...
In this special episode of Supplement Source, host Jeff Ventura sits down with Judy Blatman, former CRN colleague and longtime friend of the late Annette Dickinson, to reflect on Annette’s enduring impact on the dietary supplement industry. As the inaugural CRN Radical Science Trailblazer Award is named in Annette’s memory, Judy shares personal stories and professional insights about Annette’s pioneering leadership, her commitment to science, and her visionary approach to responsibility and t...
In this episode of Supplement Source, host Jeff Ventura sits down with Tony Pavel, partner at Keller and Heckman, for a timely discussion on contaminants in dietary supplements and what industry professionals need to know heading into CRN’s upcoming workshop, Controlling Contaminants in Supplements: Everything You Need to Know. Tony breaks down the evolving regulatory landscape—from California’s Proposition 65 to emerging state legislation on PFAS—and explains why understanding toxicological ...
In this episode of Supplement Source host Jeff Ventura sits down with Heather Nelson, Associate Fellow at Church & Dwight, to explore the growing role of dietary supplements in prenatal care. Recorded ahead of the ACOG Annual Clinical & Scientific Meeting, the conversation dives into the power of industry collaboration, the surprising gaps in nutrition education among healthcare providers, and how science-backed solutions are making waves in maternal health. Whether you're a healthcar...
On this episode of Supplement Source, we dive into groundbreaking biotech innovations with Diane Alexander and Camille Delebecque from Verb Biotics. From the science behind targeted probiotics to tackling under-researched areas in women’s health like stress, mood regulation, and sleep, this conversation unveils how cutting-edge technology is reshaping the supplement industry. Join host Jeff Ventura as we explore how Verb Biotics is leveraging AI, genomics, and high-throughput screening to cr...
In this episode of Supplement Source, Jeff Ventura, VP of Communications at the Council for Responsible Nutrition, sits down with Sue Hewlings, SVP of Scientific Affairs at Radical Science, to dive into a critical topic: diversity in clinical research. From understanding health disparities to exploring how decentralized trials are reshaping supplement science, Dr. Hewlings shares insights on why inclusivity matters—not just in study participants but in the research process itself. Plus, they ...
How do we know how much of a vitamin or mineral is safe to take? In this episode of Supplement Source, we explore the history and impact of the Vitamin and Mineral Safety Handbook, the go-to playbook that has shaped supplement regulations and formulations for decades. Jeff Ventura sits down with Andrea Wong (CRN) and Andrew Shao (Chromadex) to discuss how this handbook became a scientific cornerstone, the fight against overly conservative regulations, and why updating it is more crucial than ...
In this episode of The Supplement Source, Jeff Ventura, Vice President of Communications at the Council for Responsible Nutrition, sits down with Balchem’s Eric Ciappio and Lauren Eisen to discuss groundbreaking innovations in prenatal nutrition. They dive into the importance of targeted research for expecting mothers, the evolving market needs, and how innovation is reshaping the supplement industry to better support moms and babies. From addressing key nutrient deficiencies to creating cons...