The Better Yoo Project: Optimizing Health, Hormones and Aesthetics.

Simona DeLucia is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner, functional medicine specialist, and founder of DeLucia Vitality, a rebranded longevity and wellness clinic in Davie, Florida. With over 15 years of experience in emergency medicine, aesthetics, and hormone optimization, Simona brings deep clinical expertise and heart-centered care to every patient encounter.Simona's personal battle with Hashimoto's disease highlights the limitations of conventional medicine and ignited her passion for integrating wellness into aesthetic practices. In this episode, we explore how she navigates the intersection of aesthetics and functional health, focusing on sleep, cycles, and gut health to transform patient journeys. Simona discusses the challenges in functional medicine, such as sourcing quality peptides and building trust with pharmacies, while providing insights into finding a reliable practitioner. Her story emphasizes the importance of informed, holistic care, empowering both practitioners and patients to take charge of their health narrativesTopics discussed in this episode include:• How integrating wellness into aesthetics provides deeper healing opportunities beyond surface-level treatments.• Why functional medicine is gaining trust among clients seeking comprehensive health solutions.• How questions about sleep, cycles, and gut health open doors to transformative patient journeys.• Why sourcing quality peptides amidst tightening regulations is a challenge in functional medicine.• Why Simona rebranded from “The VIP Injector” to reflect her evolving focus on holistic healing.• How building trust with reputable pharmacies is crucial for functional medicine practitioners.• Why thorough research and verified credentials are essential for finding reliable healthcare providers.• Why organic growth through word-of-mouth and social media is effective for building a practice.• Why starting with foundational elements like gut health and hormones is vital before advancing treatments.• How patient trust in aesthetic procedures can extend naturally to functional health discussions.Simona DeLucia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deluciavitality DeLucia Vitality: https://www.deluciavitality.com Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com

Dr. Lara Zakaria is a Pharmacist, Nutritionist, and professor specializing in Functional Medicine and Personalized Nutrition. In addition to running a clinical practice focused on providing patients with sustainable solutions that address chronic disease, she also spends her time teaching and mentoring clinicians interested in implementing nutrition and food as medicine principles into practice.After hearing about Dr. Zakaria’s inspiring transition from traditional pharmacy to functional medicine, she shares insights on hormonal shifts during perimenopause and menopause, emphasizing the importance of personalized health assessments. We also explore the benefits of wearable technology like continuous glucose monitors and the Oura Ring in maintaining hormonal balance. These tools are not just for the tech-savvy; they are becoming essential aids in proactive health measures. We highlight how these wearables provide early warnings and motivate self-care, supporting your journey through the demands of daily life and the physical changes of aging.Topics discussed in this episode include:• Why traditional treatments may not address the root causes of metabolic and autoimmune diseases.• Emphasis on the importance of foundational health practices (nutrition, sleep, stress management, and physical activity).• Exploring hormonal shifts during perimenopause and their impact on women’s health.• Why comprehensive assessments are so useful for understanding hormone metabolism and gut health.• The role of wearable technology in maintaining stable blood sugar and monitoring sleep and stress.• Why recovery, nutrition, and balanced exercise routines support hormonal balance during transitions.• Insights into functional medicine expertise offered at YDH Academy for healthcare providers.• Why understanding insulin resistance is crucial for addressing metabolic demand and hormonal changes.• How wearables can track insulin resistance symptoms without adding stress.• How wearables can predict illnesses by tracking heart rate variability and body temperature.• Importance of recovery and self-care for women navigating daily life.• How dietary fiber and protein support microbiome health and hormonal balance.• Why lifting weights should be part of a balanced exercise routine for women.Dr. Zakaria on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/foodiefarmacist Dr. Zakaria on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lara-zakaria Dr. Zakaria on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@foodiefarmacist Dr. Zakaria’s website: https://larazakaria.com Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com

Cindy Eckert, CEO and Founder of Sprout Pharmaceuticals, made history by bringing Addyi — the first and only FDA-approved drug for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in women, also known as low libido — to market. In 2015, Eckert sold Sprout Pharmaceuticals for a record-breaking $1 billion. She later fought to reacquire the company and reclaim control of Addyi to continue her mission of breaking down barriers in women’s sexual health and fighting for gender equity in healthcare.In today’s conversation, Cindy shares her relentless mission to address gender inequity in medicine by bringing Addyi to the market. We explore the challenges she faced in the male-dominated pharmaceutical industry and her successful fight to reclaim her company. We uncover the complexities of female sexual health, the brain's crucial role in desire, and the societal biases that have historically marginalized women's needs. Later, we explore the ongoing changes in the pharmaceutical space, like the FDA's potential expansion of Addyi’s use for postmenopausal women, and celebrate the strides being made toward prioritizing women's health.Topics discussed in this episode include:• How the brain's role is crucial in understanding female sexual desire.• Why Cindy's work demystifies misconceptions about female sexual health.• How societal biases have historically undermined women's sexual health needs.• Why collaborative patient-provider relationships are vital for effective treatments.• How Addyi evolved from a mood medication to a treatment for female sexual function.• Why there's anticipation for FDA's expansion of Addyi's use for postmenopausal women.• How personalized care is revolutionizing women's healthcare and addressing unmet medical needs.• Why cultural shifts are crucial for improving women's sexual wellness and well-being.• How societal norms and biases continue to challenge women's health advancements.• Why addressing relationship dynamics is essential for the success of medications like Addyi.• How Cindy reacquired Sprout Pharmaceuticals to ensure Addyi's accessibility.• How Addyi's safety and effectiveness are demonstrated through extensive clinical trials.ADDYI is for premenopausal women with acquired, generalized hypoactive (low) sexual desire disorder who have not had problems with low sexual desire in the past, and who have low sexual desire no matter the type of sexual activity, the situation or the sexual partner. The low sexual desire is troubling to them and is not due to a medical or mental health problem, problems in the relationship or medicine or other drug use. ADDYI is not for use in men or to enhance sexual performance. Your risk of severe low blood pressure and fainting is increased if you drink 1-2 standard alcoholic drinks close in time to your ADDYI dose. Wait at least 2 hours after drinking before taking ADDYI at bedtime. Your risk of severe low blood pressure and fainting is also increased if you take certain prescription, over the counter or herbal medications, or have liver problems. Low blood pressure and fainting can happen when you take ADDYI even if you don’t drink alcohol or take other medicines. Do not take if you are allergic to any of the ingredients in ADDYI. Allergic reactions may include hives, itching or trouble breathing. Sleepiness, sometimes serious, can occur. Common side effects include dizziness, nausea, tiredness, difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep and dry mouth. See full PI and Medication Guide, including Boxed Warning at addyi.com/pi or call 844-PINK-PILL.Addyi website: https://addyi.com Cindy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cindypinkceo Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com

Shivaughn Petkus is a board-certified family nurse practitioner with Yoo Direct Health and has been in the medical field for the past 20 years. She received her BSN from the University of Colorado and completed her graduate degree from the University of Indianapolis. Her experiences in health care includes oncology, pediatrics, geriatrics, patient throughput, and leadership. Shivaughn's personal health experiences fueled her passion for integrating holistic approaches into traditional medical practices, as we hear in this episode. We discuss her transition from a family nurse practitioner to a key team member, highlighting how her background has driven professional growth. We also cover the comprehensive onboarding process for new nurse practitioners at Yoo Direct Health, emphasizing collaboration and continuous learning. Shivaughn then shares her insights on mastering new skills and the importance of a supportive environment. Later, we explore future aspirations for advancing education within the practice, including the creation of a journal club and a level two certification.Topics discussed in this episode include:• How Yoo Direct Health integrates holistic approaches into traditional medicine, with Shivaughn's role being crucial.• Why a comprehensive onboarding process is vital for new nurse practitioners.• Why collaboration and a supportive learning environment are needed for new practitioners.• How the practice emphasizes continuous education and establishing clinical competencies.• How mentorship and collaboration significantly contribute to the development of nurse practitioners.• Why defining roles and delegating tasks enhance efficiency in functional medicine practices.• How the practice utilizes resources like YDH Academy modules and reference guides for education.• What to think about when you’re getting ready to bring on your first NP.• The usefulness of AI tools such as Otter at Yoo Direct Health.• How establishing a structured educational plan ensures familiarity with procedures and protocols.Shivaughn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yoodirecthealth_shivaughnnp Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com

Dr Nichola Conlon (BSc, MRes, PhD) is an expert in cellular health, with particular focus on the science of ageing well. After a career in drug development, Dr Nichola founded Nuchido Laboratories driven by her belief that cutting-edge science should not lie hidden. At Nuchido, she is passionate about translating the latest scientific breakthroughs into products that slow biological ageing. Along with leading scientists at Nuchido, Dr Nichola has identified the right combination of targets to restore youthful cellular NAD+ production, leading to the development of a breakthrough NAD+ booster called Nuchido TIME+. Dr Nichola is on a mission to democratise science and has a passion for translating advanced science in a consumer-friendly manner. We’re exploring the world of NAD and its transformative role in anti-aging and wellness with Dr. Conlon in this episode, and she shares her journey from drug development to the creation of Nuchido TIME+. We explore the science behind NAD's impact on cellular function, discussing the limitations of popular precursors like NMN and NR. Dr. Conlon introduces Nuchido's novel approach, which targets enzyme activity decline and inflammation to rejuvenate natural NAD production. Our conversation also covers practical applications, including dosing protocols and synergies with other longevity-enhancing nutrients. We’re offering up valuable insights into extending healthspan and enhancing vitality through evidence-based approaches.Topics discussed in this episode include:• How Dr. Conlon became a leader in cellular health and anti-aging science.• Why NAD is crucial for longevity and cellular aging.• How Dr. Conlon transitioned from drug development to creating Nuchido TIME+.• Why scientific validation is critical over celebrity endorsements in the wellness industry.• How NAD production declines with age and why precursors like NMN and NR fall short.• How chronic inflammation and enzyme decline contribute to NAD depletion.• How Nuchido's multi-targeted approach restores NAD levels and enhances vitality.• What clinical trials reveal about Nuchido's effectiveness in rejuvenating NAD production.• How increased NAD levels can improve energy, cognitive clarity, and sleep quality.• Why integrating lifestyle choices with supplements maximizes health benefits.• How to optimize the use of Nuchido TIME+, including dosing protocols.• How Nuchido TIME+ synergizes with other longevity nutrients like spermidine and omega-3s.• How to access Nuchido products and the importance of consulting healthcare providers.Visit www.nuchido.com and use code LEXI20 at checkout to receive a 20% discount on your first order!Dr. Conlon on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnicholaconlon Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com

Dr. Stephen Ellis is not only co-founder of the L.A.B. med spa, but also serves as one of its Medical Directors. He is certified by the American Board of Anesthesiology. He also works for Metro Anesthesia and currently serves on numerous committees for the group. He serves as Chief of Staff for Medical City Lewisville and the Medical Director for Trinity Park Surgery Center. Dr. Ellis is the recipient of the Frist Humanitarian Award which recognizes others who are dedicated to improving the lives of others and going beyond everyday kindness. Do you think cold plunging is all hype? In this episode, we’re taking a close look at this trend with Dr. Ellis. We explore how cold water immersion can significantly impact longevity and wellness by enhancing the body's regenerative capabilities, converting white fat to brown fat, and cleaning up senescent cells. Dr. Ellis shares his personal journey with cold plunging, from his initial DIY setup to a more advanced routine, and emphasizes the importance of biomarkers and lifestyle changes. We discuss the physiological responses to cold exposure, such as vasoconstriction and increased norepinephrine levels, and examine the benefits of combining cold plunging with sauna sessions and exercise.Topics discussed in this episode include:• How cold plunging transforms regenerative abilities and converts white fat to brown fat.• Why cold exposure helps clean up senescent cells and combat oxidative stress.• How Dr. Ellis transitioned from a DIY cold plunge setup to a sophisticated routine.• Why biomarkers, peptides, and lifestyle changes are crucial in longevity and wellness.• How cold plunging differs from cold showers and cryotherapy in benefits and limitations.• Why moving water is essential for effective cold plunging.• How vasoconstriction and shivering thermogenesis are key physiological responses.• Why cold plunging provokes a full-body metabolic response, unlike other methods.• How cold exposure impacts stress response, glucose levels, and cardiovascular health.• Why timing is crucial for combining cold plunging with exercise and sauna use.• Why women should be cautious about cold plunging during certain menstrual cycle phases.• How infrared and steam saunas compare in terms of benefits and suitability.• Why consistent sleep habits and cold exposure resilience are so useful for wellness.Dr. Ellis on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drellis_thelabmedspa Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com

Dr. Dayan Goodenowe is a PhD neuroscientist, biochemist, synthetic organic chemist, inventor, and clinical research expert. In 1999, he invented and patented a revolutionary ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry technology that made it possible to monitor human biochemistry comprehensively for the first time in history.Today we have the privilege of speaking with Dr. Goodenowe, going deep into his pioneering work with ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry, exploring how it revolutionizes our understanding of human biochemistry and its crucial role in longevity and disease prevention. Dr. Goodenowe introduces us to the ProdromeScan, a comprehensive blood test that maps the body's biochemical landscape, highlighting the importance of plasmalogens in brain function and cellular health. We discuss the potential of biochemical interventions in combating diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, and how genetic predispositions, such as the E4 genotype, can be managed through strategic supplementation.Topics discussed in this episode include:• Why ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry revolutionized the understanding of human biochemistry and disease prediction.• How small molecules are crucial for early disease detection and longevity enhancement.• What the ProdromeScan offers in terms of comprehensive blood testing for biochemical health.• How plasmalogens play a huge role in brain function and combating neurological diseases.• Why strategic supplementation can enhance biochemical reserve capacity and overall vitality.• How optimal cholesterol levels relate to heart health and longevity.• Why genetic predispositions like the E4 genotype do not dictate Alzheimer's risk entirely.• How maintaining DHA plasmalogen levels can mitigate Alzheimer's risk in E4 genotype carriers.• Why dietary precursors developed by Dr. Goodenowe can potentially reverse neurological damage.• Why a holistic approach to health is vital, including psychological well-being and physical health.• How biochemical interventions have shown improvements in memory, mobility, and quality of life.• What the impact of plasmalogens is on conditions like autism, dementia, and Alzheimer's.• How plasmalogens can be integrated into mainstream health practices to improve treatment outcomes.Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com Dr. Goodenowe’s website: https://drgoodenowe.com Prodrome: https://prodrome.com

Christina O’Connor is a registered dietitian and the Senior Healthcare Account Manager at Pendulum Therapeutics. She received her Bachelor of Science at James Madison University and completed her Dietetic Internship through the Virginia Department of Health. Christina spent her early career working in pediatrics where she fell in love with microbiome science during her role as a NICU dietitian at The Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters.Christina is shining a light on the amazing role of Akkermansia, a groundbreaking probiotic strain that supports the microbiome and is linked to longevity and health optimization. She shares insights from her work in neonatal intensive care units to cutting-edge biotech labs, showing Akkermansia's huge impact on gut barrier integrity and metabolism. We discuss the gut-brain connection, how dysbiosis can lead to various health issues, and the critical role of short-chain fatty acids like butyrate in activating the GLP-1 hormone. We also touch on the importance of sourcing quality probiotic supplements, and preview some upcoming collaborations at the Institute for Functional Medicine Conference.Topics discussed in this episode include:• How Akkermansia impacts gut health and longevity, linked to human milk and centenarians.• Why probiotics are crucial for maintaining gut barrier integrity and boosting health.• How the gut-brain axis affects physiological and psychological conditions like mood disorders.• Why Akkermansia and Clostridium butyricum are vital for short-chain fatty acid production.• How butyrate activates GLP-1 hormone, which is essential for weight management and metabolism.• Why Akkermansia supplements require careful sourcing to ensure authenticity and efficacy.• How Pendulum Therapeutics leads in manufacturing live Akkermansia with meticulous processes.• Why gut microbiome transplants have significant implications for obesity management.• How Akkermansia's role in gut permeability impacts skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.• How butyrate production in the colon supports colonic health and mitochondrial function.• Why combining butyrate with Akkermansia might enhance patient outcomes.If you want to try for yourself, use code YOODIRECTHEALTH for 20% off your first membership order at PendulumLife.com Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com Pendulum Therapeutics on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pendulumlifeco

Dr. Tiphany Hall is a nationally recognized expert in business growth strategy, revenue optimization, product-led sales and marketing, and AI-powered transformation in Medical Aesthetics. As CGO of Aesthetic Record, she’s scaled a top tier EMR and Practice Management platform without venture backing, blending compliance authority, fintech expertise, and operational strategy into one powerful package. She’s spent the last decade educating Medical Aesthetic Professionals–clinical and administrative–through her work with GAIN by Galderma and as the Co-Founder and Clinical Director of Aesthetic Next, an international medical education conference.Dr. Hall guides us through an exploration of the dynamic landscape of wellness and aesthetics, discussing trends like the shift towards holistic health and natural treatments. We address the knowledge gaps in hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and the importance of innovative training for practitioners as more and more practices add in this service. Building on from that, we talk about the challenges of misinformation and the scarcity of real educational opportunities in the field. Dr. Hall finishes off with a sneak peek of what to expect in this year’s Aesthetic Next conference.Topics discussed in this episode include:• Why bridging clinical skills and business acumen is vital for scaling aesthetic practices.• How strategic business practices can transform a single practice into a thriving business empire.• Why understanding profit margins and market strategies is crucial for aesthetic professionals.• How the wellness and aesthetics industry is shifting towards holistic health approaches.• Why the acceptance of both internal wellness and external aesthetics is growing in the industry.• How GLP-1 medications influence opportunities and challenges in modern wellness trends.• Why comprehensive education in HRT is so important.• How the Aesthetic Next conference combines education and innovation in aesthetics.• How the conference's cadaver lab and vendor hall offer unique learning experiences.• Testosterone management and how it can be effectively monetized.• How peptide therapy can be implemented in clinical settings.• Why attending Aesthetic Next can expand your knowledge in aesthetics, wellness, and business acumen.• Why the conference's global theme offers insights into international beauty trends.Register for Aesthetic Next at https://aestheticnext.com and use code YOO75. Dr. Hall on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drtiphanyhall Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com

Dr. Patrick K. Porter, PhD, is an award-winning author/speaker and the Founder of BrainTap. He has dedicated his life to studying neuropsychology with the goal of bettering a billion brains. For years it was believed that we have a set number of brain cells, that our intelligence quotient is fixed and our brains do not change. Dr. Porter’s clinical experience and research told a different story, revealing that the human brain is, in fact, plastic, making it capable of change, improvement and expansion. This exploration led to the development of BrainTap, transforming the lives of thousands of people.We’re diving into the fascinating world of cognitive health with Dr. Porter in this episode. We explore the groundbreaking science of neuroplasticity, challenging the outdated belief that our intelligence and brain cells are fixed. Dr. Porter shares his inspiring journey from witnessing his father's recovery through the Silva Method to developing the first portable light and sound machine. We discuss the transformative potential of BrainTap, which combines light, sound, and neurotherapy to enhance brain health and stress management. Getting into the interconnectedness of the brain, heart, and gut, we look at how innovative technologies like red light therapy can synchronize brain hemispheres and boost cognitive efficiency.Topics discussed in this episode include:• How Dr. Porter's personal journey led to the creation of BrainTap.• Why outdated beliefs about fixed intelligence and brain cells can be challenged by neuroplasticity.• How BrainTap combines light, sound, and neurotherapy to enhance brain health.• Why light is considered an underappreciated nutrient in cognitive health.• How BrainTap promotes relaxation and stress management for overall wellness.• Why understanding energy fields is so useful for brain, heart, and gut health.• How technologies like red light therapy synchronize brain hemispheres and improve cognitive efficiency.• Why brain priming is effective in high-stress environments and integrates with other technologies.• How positive thinking and lifestyle changes can easily contribute to brain optimization.• How energy fields and neural connections between brain, heart, and gut impact health.• Why sensory perception can be enhanced through BrainTap.• How binaural beats and isochronic tones are able to improve cognitive function.• Why stress is an adaptive response that can build brain capacity.• About Dr. Porter's upcoming book "The Brain Fitness Blueprint.”Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com BrainTap: https://braintap.com Brain Fitness Blueprint: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/790580/brain-fitness-blueprint-by-patrick-k-porter-phd-and-ruchika-sikri