Ever wonder what secrets your blood holds about your future health? In this episode of The Health Pulse, we explore the powerful world of advanced blood biomarkers—the tools transforming how we prevent disease and personalize wellness. From high-sensitivity CRP and fasting insulin to ApoB and thyroid function markers, you'll learn why “normal” lab …

Could the root cause of insulin resistance and metabolic disorders like type 2 diabetes be hiding in your gut? In this episode of The Health Pulse, we explore groundbreaking research that links gut dysbiosis, leaky gut, and chronic inflammation to the development of insulin resistance—long before blood sugar levels start to spike. We break down how…

Fibromyalgia affects millions with its relentless mix of chronic pain, exhaustion, and the mental haze known as "fibro fog." For many, traditional treatments offer little relief—leaving patients searching for alternatives. In this episode of The Health Pulse, we explore one of the most controversial yet increasingly talked-about approaches: the car…

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we challenge one of the most entrenched narratives in modern medicine: that LDL cholesterol is the primary cause of heart disease. Inspired by the work of Dr. Paul Mason, we explore a compelling new framework that puts the spotlight on inflammation, insulin resistance, and metabolic dysfunction as the re…

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we take a deep dive into the hidden history and health consequences of industrial seed oils—like soybean, corn, and sunflower oil. Once byproducts of industrial processes, these chemically refined oils have become staples in the modern diet, marketed as “heart-healthy” alternatives to traditional fats li…

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we go beyond the hype to explore the true metabolic power of the ketogenic diet. While keto is often marketed for fast weight loss, its deeper value lies in how it transforms energy metabolism, improves insulin sensitivity, and supports cellular health. We break down what happens when your body switches …

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we go beyond the outdated “cholesterol clogs arteries” model and explore the modern science of atherosclerosis—a dynamic process involving oxidized LDL, inflammation, immune activation, and metabolic dysfunction. Learn how damaged arteries, oxidized LDL particles, and foam cell formation drive plaque bui…

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we dive into the powerful and controversial theory that cancer may be driven more by metabolic dysfunction than by genetic mutations. Drawing on the research of Dr. Thomas Seyfried and the foundational work of Otto Warburg, we explore how damaged mitochondria and altered energy metabolism could be the tr…

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we reveal how insulin resistance may be the hidden cause behind many cases of high blood pressure. Up to 75% of people with hypertension also have insulin resistance—even if they don’t have diabetes—making this metabolic dysfunction a major factor in cardiovascular health. We break down the science: how …

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we explore the growing evidence that the ketogenic diet may do more than manage type 2 diabetes—it could help reverse it. Once viewed as a progressive disease, type 2 diabetes is now being reexamined through a metabolic lens, with keto offering a direct way to lower insulin demand, improve blood sugar co…

Ag Ed is uniquely positioned to support boys in school. Stacy Vincent (University of Kentucky) joins the OP crew to share key findings from an experimental study looking at student performance in same-sex versus co-ed classrooms. Tune in to hear more about how students process and engage in school differently. Journal article: https://jae-online.or…

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we explore the growing global issue of metabolic syndrome—a condition that significantly increases the risk for heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. But there’s good news: the latest research shows that targeted dietary and lifestyle changes can do more than just manage symptoms—they can help reve…

The "To Those Concerned with Teacher Retention" mini-series highlights a series of vulnerable conversations in letter form to help us ask tough questions of the education career. The series will challenge listeners to consider new solutions, imagine "what ifs," and inform future directions for education. The full journal article includes appendices…

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we break down what your cholesterol panel is really telling you—not just about your heart, but about your liver health and overall metabolism. Inspired by Dr. Robert Lustig’s insights, we cut through the confusion around total cholesterol, LDL particle size, and triglyceride-to-HDL ratios to help you bet…

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we reveal the often-overlooked connection between high blood pressure and insulin resistance. While hypertension is typically treated as a standalone condition, research shows that 50-75% of people with primary hypertension also have insulin resistance—even without diabetes. Learn how insulin affects mor…

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we explore low testosterone—a condition that affects far more than sex drive. From muscle loss and brain fog to increased belly fat and mood changes, declining testosterone levels can impact nearly every system in a man’s body. We break down the most common signs of Low T, explore modern lifestyle factor…

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we dive deep into the cellular consequences of high sugar intake, examining how it drives insulin resistance and damages mitochondrial function—the energy powerhouses of your cells. Learn how excess sugar leads to a vicious metabolic cycle, where insulin resistance and mitochondrial dysfunction feed into…

Jamie Greig and his team at University of Tennessee knows implementing VR can feel intimidating, but with their guide to planning, process, and reflection, you'll be a VR implementation expert in no time. Journal Article: https://agdevresearch.org/index.php/aad/article/view/353By Owl Pellets

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we explore the fascinating connection between diet, metabolism, and brain function. Learn how the brain, despite making up just 2% of your body weight, consumes 20% of your daily energy—and how ketones may offer a cleaner, more efficient fuel than glucose. We dive into the science behind beta-hydroxybuty…

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we uncover the silent epidemic of sexually transmitted infections (STIs)—a growing health issue that affects 1 in 5 Americans, often without any symptoms. We discuss the most common STIs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, HPV, and HIV, and why asymptomatic carriers are a major reason they…

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we tackle the often frustrating diagnosis of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)—a label that names your symptoms but rarely explains them. Instead of settling for generic treatment, we explore how functional gut testing can uncover what’s really driving your digestive issues. Learn how tests like comprehensi…

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we explore non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)—a condition once thought to affect only those who are overweight. Shocking new data shows that up to 20% of NAFLD cases occur in people with a normal BMI, forcing us to rethink how we define metabolic health. We discuss how visceral fat, insulin resist…

We'll just come right out and say it: Mobility might be a retention strategy. Becky Haddad (University of Nebraska-Lincoln) and Lavyne Rada (Co-Director of the Minnesota Teacher Induction Program) chat with Mike and Brian about reasonable retention, navigating the teaching career, and supporting newness across the career spectrum. Journal Article: …

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we take a closer look at seed oils—highly refined oils like soybean, corn, canola, and sunflower—that have become staples in the modern diet. While often marketed as “heart-healthy,” these oils may actually be fueling chronic inflammation and metabolic dysfunction. We explore how the dramatic rise in ome…

The "To Those Concerned with Teacher Retention" mini-series highlights a series of vulnerable conversations in letter form to help us ask tough questions of the education career. The series will challenge listeners to consider new solutions, imagine "what ifs," and inform future directions for education. The full journal article includes appendices…

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we explore the groundbreaking work of Dr. Jason Fung, a physician who challenges the outdated "calories in, calories out" model of weight management. Instead, he places the focus where it belongs: on hormones—especially insulin—as the true regulators of fat storage and energy use. We dive into Dr. Fung’s…

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we explore the powerful connection between diet and inflammation—and how everyday food choices can either fuel or fight the silent driver behind many chronic diseases. Learn how the Western diet, packed with sugar, refined carbs, and processed foods, triggers chronic low-grade inflammation, contributing …

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we uncover the importance of fasting insulin testing—a powerful yet often overlooked marker that can reveal signs of metabolic dysfunction years before blood sugar levels show a problem. Learn how insulin resistance develops, why hyperinsulinemia can go undetected for so long, and how this early warning …

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we break down metabolic syndrome—a cluster of five risk factors that, when three or more occur together, dramatically increase your risk for heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. You’ll learn how insulin resistance, abdominal fat, and chronic inflammation form a dangerous cycle that affects million…

Curious about how to set failure as an expectation? WHAT?! Taylor Merrick (Arizona ag teacher) and Amber Rice (Iowa State University) have the inside scoop on problem-based learning to help teachers work their students through the process of problem solving, the nature of conflict, and the environment you create in the process. Journal Article: htt…

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we uncover the powerful role of cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone, and how it affects far more than your response to pressure. From energy crashes and insomnia to belly fat and inflammation, cortisol’s daily rhythm is at the core of your metabolic and immune function. We explain how chronic str…

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we explore Anemia of Chronic Disease (ACD)—a common yet often misunderstood condition that affects millions, particularly older adults and those with ongoing inflammatory illnesses. Unlike iron deficiency anemia, ACD occurs despite having normal or even high iron stores, due to inflammation disrupting th…

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we explore how functional medicine is reshaping the way we treat type 2 diabetes—not just by managing blood sugar, but by uncovering and addressing the root causes behind the condition. We look at diabetes through a whole-body lens, exploring key drivers like insulin resistance, inflammation, gut health,…

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we dive into advanced cardiovascular blood testing—a powerful tool that goes far beyond basic cholesterol panels to uncover hidden risks before symptoms arise. We explore how markers like hsCRP, oxidized LDL, ApoB, and Lp(a) offer a deeper look at inflammation, genetic predispositions, insulin resistance…

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we explore how mobile phlebotomy services are transforming the lab testing experience—bringing convenience, safety, and accessibility to your doorstep. From busy professionals and rural patients to those with limited mobility, mobile blood draws and sample collections eliminate common barriers like trans…

A team isn't just a group of people thrown together, and Tom Jacobsen with the University of Idaho Extension has some great tips for us to build teams through LDE preparation. Tune in as Tom chats with the crew about defining success, engaging in a team building process, and teaching employability skills in how we ask students to prepare for compet…

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we explore the powerful connection between GLP-1—a key gut hormone—and its role in digestion, inflammation, immunity, and chronic health issues. What Hippocrates once said—“all disease begins in the gut”—is now backed by science. Learn how GLP-1 supports blood sugar control, appetite regulation, and gut …

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we uncover the powerful connection between insulin resistance and PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)—a link that affects up to 80% of women with the condition, even those who appear healthy on the outside. We explain how elevated insulin levels fuel androgen production, disrupt hormones, and contribute to …

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we uncover pheochromocytoma—a rare but potentially life-threatening tumor of the adrenal glands that often mimics anxiety, panic attacks, or uncontrolled high blood pressure. Though it affects only a few people per million each year, its impact is serious. We break down the classic symptom triad—sudden h…

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we spotlight the thyroid—a small but powerful gland that plays a major role in your overall health. From regulating metabolism to supporting mood, heart rate, and body temperature, your thyroid acts like the body's internal thermostat. We break down 10 often-overlooked signs that may point to a thyroid i…

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we explore the vital role of blood testing in diagnosing and managing scleroderma, a complex autoimmune disease that can affect the skin, blood vessels, and internal organs. We break down how tests like the ANA, Anti-Centromere, and Anti-SCL70 antibodies help identify different types of scleroderma, whil…

The "To Those Concerned with Teacher Retention" mini-series highlights a series of vulnerable conversations in letter form to help us ask tough questions of the education career. The series will challenge listeners to consider new solutions, imagine "what ifs," and inform future directions for education. The full journal article includes appendices…

Food allergies affect millions—and the “Big 8” allergens account for over 90% of all reactions. From mild discomfort to life-threatening anaphylaxis, recognizing and managing these allergies is essential. In this episode, we break down: • The difference between true allergies and food intolerances • Why milk and eggs are especially tricky in proces…

🎧 In this episode of The Health Pulse, we explore amyloidosis—a rare but potentially life-threatening condition caused by 🧬 misfolded proteins that build up in your organs and tissues. Although early symptoms can be subtle, the impact can be serious if left untreated. 🔍 What we cover: • 🧪 What amyloidosis is and how misfolded proteins disrupt organ…

🎙️When a 42-year-old man visits the clinic with shortness of breath and chest discomfort, his case seems straightforward—until a few unusual details begin to raise questions. From childhood surgeries to a subtle physical trait, this episode follows a medical mystery that slowly unravels into something far more complex than expected. What do differe…

In this episode, we take a deep dive into sarcoidosis—a complex inflammatory condition that primarily affects the lungs and lymph nodes but can impact multiple organs. You'll learn about its underlying immune and metabolic mechanisms, common symptoms, possible causes, and evidence-based treatments. Whether you're a patient, caregiver, or simply cur…

Menopause is not the end of femininity or attractiveness, but a new chapter of opportunity and freedom. In this episode, we debunk common myths, explore menopause symptoms, and discuss strategies for maintaining health and vitality. ✅ Common myths and misconceptions ✅ Recognizing menopause symptoms and hormonal changes ✅ Protecting bone density and…

🎙️ The brain is our most powerful organ, controlling every aspect of our lives, yet its health often takes a backseat to physical fitness. In this episode of The Health Pulse, we discuss why prioritizing brain health is essential for maintaining cognitive function, memory, and independence as we age. What You'll Learn in This Episode: ✅ Nutrition E…

Philanthropy is an intentional, private allocation of time or money--more simply, it's just giving back where you can, and Amber Rice (Iowa State) and Weslee Potts (Arizona Mom & administrator) are here to tell us more! Tune in as they share how Gen Z seeks connection, meaning, purpose, and belonging in their philanthropic efforts, looking to give …

🎙️Precision medicine is revolutionizing cancer care by tailoring treatments to each individual’s genetic profile, moving away from the traditional one-size-fits-all approach to more targeted and effective therapies. In this episode of The Health Pulse, we explore how this personalized approach is changing the future of cancer treatment and beyond. …