Is “gut health” just another buzzy wellness trend, OR is it a real component of chronic illness that we may be able to change?? In this episode of Calling in Sick, I sit down with Dr. Stephanie Culler, microbiome PhD, cancer researcher, and co-founder/CEO of Persephone Biosciences, to cut through the hype and bring you the real Gut Microbiome 101.

In this episode, we cover:
🌱 What the microbiome actually is (and how it develops from birth to adulthood)
💊 Why antibiotics aren’t always the enemy and how to recover after using them
🤓 The truth about “leaky gut,” gut dysbiosis, and what the gut–brain connection is
🦠 How microbiome diversity affects immunity, mood, inflammation, and even response to medications
💕 Which supplements are worth your money, and the 4 low-lift habits that actually improve gut health

If you’ve ever wondered what’s going on with your, why gut talk is so buzzy, or if you can do something to help improve your gut… this is the episode you can’t miss.

xx,
Alex

** You can read more about Dr. Culler's groundbreaking, largest of it's kind, infant microbiome study, "My Baby Biome" here: https://www.nature.com/articles/s42003-025-08274-7

💬 Comment: Fermented foods, fiber, or supplements: what’s your go-to for gut support? Share your routine in the comments!

TIMESTAMP:

Intro:
00:00:00 Welcome back to Calling in Sick!
00:03:45 Alex’s Picks of the Week (Persephone Biosciences Symbiotic, Hilma Fiber Supplement)
00:04:53 Introducing Dr. Stephanie Culler

Gut Health 101:
00:07:21 What is the microbiome + why does it really matter?
00:12:28 Gut impact of antibiotics and how to make good bacteria thrive
00:20:46 Leaky Gut explained
00:28:33 Can you even improve an unhealthy microbiome?
00:42:46 4 lifestyle changes you can implement now to improve your gut

Conclusion:
00:49:12 My takeaways from my own gut testing
00:51:31 Overview of a clinical study (where does funding come from and does it sway research?!)
00:57:40 Thank you to Dr. Stephanie Culler!
00:57:58 Episode wrap-up and how to stay in touch with Calling in Sick!
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Produced by: Alexandra Wildeson — https://www.instagram.com/alexandrawildeson/

Alex’s Picks of the Week:
These 2 supplements help me make sure that I am taking care of my gut health!
✨Persephone Biosciences Symbiotic: https://go.shopmy.us/p-26313246
✨Hilma Fiber Supplement:  https://rebrand.ly/6tq0q7k
—— Use code “ALEXANDRA20” for 20% off at checkout!!




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