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

As the founder and CEO of Living Well Dallas Functional Medicine Center, Dr. Betty Murray pioneered the first multi-specialty clinic in Dallas dedicated to the functional medicine model. Her unwavering mission is to revolutionize the medical landscape and provide a precision healthcare experience for every patient. After being diagnosed with colitis in her early 30s while working as an IT executive, she embarked on a transformative 25+ year odyssey, returning to a Ph.D. program and diving deep into women’s health research. Today, Betty is a leading expert in women's hormones, focusing on their intricate interplay with immune, gut, and metabolic functionsAlongside Dr. Murray, we’re examining and debunking a ton of myths associated with hormones in this episode. We also delve into her personal battle with colitis and the pivotal role nutrition played in her healing process. We unpack the controversies surrounding hormone replacement therapy (HRT), especially the fallout from the 2002 Women's Health Initiative study. Dr. Murray provides clarity on the differences between bioidentical and synthetic hormones, emphasizing informed discussions with healthcare providers. We later explore testosterone's often-overlooked significance in women's health and the need for empowered partnerships between patients and their doctors.Topics discussed in this episode include:• Why Dr. Murray’s personal battle with debilitating colitis led her to thoroughly explore nutrition for holistic healing.• Why Dr. Murray focuses intensely on debunking prevalent myths around HRT.• How the pivotal 2002 Women's Health Initiative study significantly impacted public perception of HRT.• Why the study's methodological flaws unfortunately fueled misconceptions about hormone therapy risks.• How Dr. Murray clearly differentiates between bioidentical and synthetic hormone treatments.• Why bioidentical hormones effectively can reduce cancer, dementia, and cardiovascular health risks.• How testosterone is significantly important for women's muscle, brain, and bone health.• Why bioidentical hormones generally carry zero clotting risk when used appropriately.• How hormone therapy timing can be crucial for optimal brain health benefits in women.• Why informed consent is critically important in prescribing effective hormone therapies.• How environmental factors like pervasive toxins can mimic estrogen and negatively impact health.• How Dr. Murray strongly advocates for a more personalized approach to hormonal health management.Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com MENRVA Telemedicine: https://getmenrva.com Dr. Betty Murray’s website: https://www.bettymurray.com Dr. Betty Murray on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drbettymurrayMenopause Mastery on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/menopause-mastery/id1607369247Menopause Mastery on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0qgY9Cubf9cUm6zz47p6vt?si=be1ca18a4464455a

Jim Beebe is the Founder and Head Coach for Unbreakable Athletics Academy in Plainfield, Indiana since 2013. Unbreakable Athletics is a local strength and conditioning gym. He has coached over 400 student athletes in college, high school and middle school. More than 10% of his athletes advanced to play in college with more than half of those playing at the Division I level. In addition, he coached over 1,000 adults in CrossFit, strength training, and nutrition.Jim is with us today to share his expertise on the intersection of functional medicine and athletic coaching. Jim, who transitioned from a career in finance to fitness, tells us his journey of transforming the lives of countless student athletes and adults through his innovative coaching system. We hear about fundamental strength training techniques, emphasizing the importance of mental resilience and the role of hormone management in achieving peak performance. With a focus on optimizing recovery through consistent sleep routines and nutrition, Jim offers insights from his book, "Athlete Builder: The Blueprint to Build Champion Athletes," and previews his upcoming Athlete Builder Summit.Topics discussed in this episode include:• Why Jim's strongman and powerlifting background shapes his innovative coaching system.• How Jim's coaching integrates mental resilience, sports knowledge, and physical training.• Why fundamental strength training techniques are vital for building strength.• How mastering basic techniques early helps young athletes avoid injuries and improve performance.• Why optimizing hormone levels is crucial for athletic performance and overall well-being.• How recovery strategies like consistent sleep routines enhance training effectiveness.• Why muscle building is so good for longevity and overall health.• Why hormone imbalances like low testosterone can hinder recovery and energy.• How individualized nutrition and training plans aid in achieving specific fitness goals.• How tracking progress with tools and KPIs helps athletes overcome plateaus and achieve goals.• What to expect from the Athlete Builder Summit.• The popularity of wearables, along with which ones Jim actually likes and recommends.Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com Athlete Builder: https://www.athlete-builder.com Athlete Builder Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/34QCcodvAqAgj7iwk3tdrj?si=7a063b034d694a50 Athlete Builder Podcast on iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/athlete-builder/id1715521920 Athlete Builder on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1athletebuilder/ Athlete Builder on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/athlete_builder Athlete Builder on X: https://x.com/AthleteBuilder Athlete Builder on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@athlete.builder Athlete Builder on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Athlete-Builder

Dr. Joelle Lieman, MD, is the CEO and founder of Elite Medspa and Wellness Center in the Boston area. She is a highly respected board-certified OB/GYN and an esteemed expert in aesthetic medicine, women and men’s hormone health and sexual wellness. Her passion lies in empowering her patients, whether through personalized health care plans or advanced aesthetic treatments that enhance confidence and well-being.After sharing her journey from a traditional OB/GYN to an innovator in aesthetics and integrative medicine, Dr. Lieman takes us through how she helps her menopausal patients navigate this new era of their life. She talks about her experiences with pioneering treatments like the O-shot, and her insights into the transformative role of hormones in women's health. We explore the profound effects of testosterone on postmenopausal women, drawing on a study by Dr. Rebecca Glaser, and discuss estrogen's critical role in vaginal and pelvic health. Dr. Lieman also reveals that she is a breast cancer survivor of over 15 years, which she references to show the importance of personalized hormone health. We wrap up by celebrating the growing awareness and advocacy around menopause, encouraging everyone to educate themselves and embrace self-advocacy.Topics discussed in this episode include:• How Dr. Lieman transitioned from a traditional OB/GYN to aesthetics and functional medicine.• Why testosterone plays a crucial role in menopausal women's health.• The WHI study of 2002 and why it was so flawed, yet still causes misconceptions today.• How Dr. Rebecca Glaser’s study highlights testosterone's benefits for mood and breast cancer prevention.• The O-shot and how it can rejuvenate the vagina’s natural moisturization during menopause.• Misconceptions about testosterone and its therapy options.• How estrogen therapy impacts vaginal and pelvic health in women.• How menopause conversations are gaining momentum, encouraging education and awareness.• How Dr. Lieman's integrative medicine journey reflects courage and adaptability.• Why understanding estrogen's role in health is vital for addressing menopause symptoms.• How using personalized care and advocacy will result in optimizing your hormone health.• Why traditional medicine's shortcomings show the need for personalized approaches.Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com My Elite Medspa: https://www.myelitemedspa.com My Elite Academy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/my.eliteacademyDr. Joelle Leiman on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjoellelieman My Elite Medspa on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/myelitemedspa

Heather Harper is a dedicated Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s in Nursing from the University of South Alabama. She has worked and trained closely over the last several years with Hashimoto’s expert Josh Redd and is highly trained in cutting-edge anti-aging and regenerative therapies, including bioidentical hormone replacement, IV ozone therapy, peptide therapy, and more.Together, we’re taking a deep dive into mastering Hashimoto’s care through advanced, integrative medicine. We reveal a treasure trove of information on groundbreaking treatments like ozone therapy and peptides, essential for effectively managing autoimmune diseases. Heather explains distinctions between EBOO and standard ozone treatments, sharing first-hand patient accounts of relief and reduced inflammation. We also cover the strategic use of supplements like turmeric and vitamin D, and medications like tyrosine, to support thyroid health.Topics discussed in this episode include:• How Heather transitioned from NICU care to holistic health through personal family experiences with chronic illnesses.• Why functional and integrative medicine is vital for managing autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto's.• How ozone therapy, including EBOO, can provide extended relief for autoimmune conditions.• How to address the Herxheimer reaction in chronic cases when using ozone therapy.• Why starting with standard ozone treatments can gauge patient tolerance before advancing to EBOO.• How supplements like turmeric, glutathione, resveratrol, and vitamin D support thyroid health.• Why thyroid glandulars and medications can be great for personalized Hashimoto's care.• How liver detoxification and adrenal support contribute to managing autoimmune conditions holistically.• Why peptides like thymosin alpha 1 are effective in supporting the immune system.• How integrative therapies can improve conditions like Lyme disease and mold exposure.• Why trust and experimentation are important in exploring integrative medicine and patient care.Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com Palmavita Clinic: https://palmavitaclinic.com Palmavita Clinic on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/palmavitaclinic Heather on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heatherh.np

Kelli Binnings is a brand psychology-obsessed creative with 15+ years of experience shaping brands across industries like travel, fitness, beauty, and wellness. She specializes in uncovering a brand’s core identity to craft meaningful, people-minded strategies that authentically connect with audiences and teams.We’re learning all about brand building with Kelli today as she offers invaluable insights into creating authentic, people-centered brands, specifically in the wellness industry. We explore the critical importance of personal authenticity and the challenges of maintaining it in the fast-paced world of social media. Kelli shares tips on how to build a memorable and trustworthy brand by focusing on perception, consistency, and audience engagement. We also discuss the balance between authenticity and professionalism, which can sometimes be complicated in the health and wellness space. Kelli even tells us her methods of how to overcome branding pitfalls and measure success. Topics discussed in this episode include:• Why authenticity is crucial for creating resonant, people-centered brands, especially in healthcare.• How maintaining authenticity on social media can be challenging for healthcare professionals.• Why perception and consistency are essential for building a trustworthy brand identity.• How personal branding influences business success and pre-establishes trust with clients.• Strategies that can overcome common branding pitfalls like inconsistency in messaging.• How storytelling and case studies can engage audiences while respecting patient confidentiality.• Why balancing authenticity with professionalism is vital in our industry.• Tools that can be used for effective content creation and scheduling, even for beginners.• Why measuring brand success involves customer feedback, surveys, and engagement metrics.• How to stay ahead with marketing trends and adapt strategies for ongoing relevance.• Why niche specialization can be challenging.• How blending transparency with creativity can effectively market your services.• What foundational elements are key when building a consistent and trustworthy brand presence.• How Kelli's resources, like her brand course and quiz, can aid in refining brand strategies.Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com How to Build SMART Brands course: https://www.howtobuildsmartbrands.com/course SMART Brand Quiz: https://howsmartisyourbrand.scoreapp.comBrand Measurement Toolkit: https://buildsmartbrands.myflodesk.com/brandmetricstoolkit Kelli on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buildsmartbrands Kelli on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellibinnings

Dr. Leonard Pastrana specializes in cellular optimization medicine and has multiple certifications in peptide therapy from the American Academy of Anti-aging and Seeds Scientific Research and Performance. Dr. Pastrana is a faculty member and one of only six certified clinical instructors from Seeds Scientific research and performance. He is currently the only Pharmacist to have this honor. Dr. Pastrana is also the head supplement formulator for multiple companies, including nuBioAge.We’re exploring insights from the Clinical Application of Longevity Medicine (CALM) conference and introducing Regenatides today, a groundbreaking nutraceutical featuring BPC-157 and TB4 Frag. These peptides promise to enhance gut health, reduce inflammation, and accelerate recovery. We also discuss the fascinating realm of oral peptides and the challenges of their bioavailability, highlighting innovative solutions like SNAC technology. Additionally, Dr. Pastrana unveils a new certification course in longevity medicine, designed for medical practitioners eager to explore cardiometabolic optimization and longevity strategies.Topics discussed in this episode include:• How regenerative peptides revolutionize medicine, focusing on their impact on gut health and recovery.• Why Regenatides is a game-changing nutraceutical.• Why oral peptides, like larazotide and BPC-157, are transforming healthcare with improved bioavailability.• How SNAC technology boosts peptide absorption, exemplified by oral semaglutide.• Why incorporating peptides into aesthetic treatments and gut health regimens optimizes healing.• How Dr. Pastrana’s new clinical application of longevity medicine course targets cardiometabolic optimization.• Why the course focuses on essential aspects like gut health, immune regulation, and stress management.• How live Q&A sessions are integrated into the course.• Why there is growing interest in clinical longevity medicine (resulting in a course waitlist).• Why collaboration and innovative peptide therapies are emphasized at the CALM conference.Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com Longevity Certification course: https://nubioage.com/longevity-certificationnuBioAge Regenatides: https://shop.nubioage.com/products/regenatidesDr. Leonard Pastrana on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leonardpastrana

Nathalie Niddam is a holistic nutritionist, longevity educator, and speaker dedicated to promoting health and vitality into later years. She hosts the LONGEVITY with Nathalie Niddam, a podcast where she explores strategies for extending your healthspan. Nathalie is an expert in bioregulator peptides, which are compounds that activate the body’s natural rejuvenation systems. She combines science and holistic care to drive meaningful health transformations and aims to reshape the conversation around aging, helping individuals live longer, healthier lives.We’re jumping into the world of biohacking and nutrition with Nathalie in this episode, as she shares her transformative journey from a corporate career to becoming a pioneer in nutrition and longevity. With her rich background in physiology and fitness, she reveals how food can be a powerful tool for wellness in our modern world. We explore essential aspects of biohacking, such as bone quality, sleep enhancement, and stress management, while dispelling myths and emphasizing foundational habits. Natalie also provides insights into longevity-promoting supplements and the significance of mitochondrial health despite it often being overlooked.Topics discussed in this episode include:• Why Natalie's anthropology-inclined mentor influenced her perspective on nutrition education.• Why bone quality should be prioritized over bone density for reducing fracture risks.• How nutrient absorption, exercise routines, and hormone therapy can impact bone health.• Why biohacking is misunderstood as offering shortcuts when, in reality, core principles remain.• How practical sleep strategies can enhance sleep quality, including sleep masks and temperature control.• Why stress management and boundary setting are crucial in a fast-paced world.• How the SOLTEC magnetic device is a game changer in improving deep sleep and relaxation.• Why supplements like rapamycin and urolithin A are great for their longevity benefits.• How mitochondrial health and pathways like mTOR and AMPK relate to longevity.• Why gut health is so important, supported by a comprehensive supplement stack for gut integrity.• How foundational practices like fasting can support overall health.• Why maintaining a balanced diet and regular physical activity can’t be overlooked.Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com Nathalie’s website: https://www.natniddam.com Nathalie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nathalieniddam LONGEVITY with Nathalie Niddam on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/longevity-with-nathalie-niddam/id1534355704 LONGEVITY with Nathalie Niddam on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6p3R333ynb3OT3oqXmcWUd?si=c49e57c34f874622

Kim Look has been intimately involved with functional medicine for over twelve years, specializing in IV therapy. She has owned three practices and worked with hundreds of doctors nationwide to build their IV space and grow their businesses. She has also had the pleasure of personally administering over 20,000 IVs in the course of her career; witnessing the power of these therapies firsthand. Now serving as the Director of Training for MedMasters, she has been educating doctors and nurses around the globe on ozone and ultraviolet blood irradiation and how the synergy between them not only addresses the root cause of many conditions; but how they can also be used in conjunction with many other IVs to get patients back to health.Alongside Kim, were exploring ozone’s massive impact on functional and longevity medicine in this episode. Kim shares her inspiring journey from overcoming personal health challenges to becoming a leader in ozone and ultraviolet radiation therapies, and we discuss the intricacies of integrating IV therapies into clinical practice, including essential steps for setting up an effective IV room and strategies for communicating the benefits to patients. Additionally, we get into the expansive potential of ozone therapy for promoting healing and well-being, addressing safety concerns, and exploring off-label applications.Topics discussed in this episode include:• What exactly ozone is and why it is so effective.• How to establish an effective IV room, from equipment needs to staff training.• Why clear communication boosts patient confidence and engagement with ozone therapy.• Using social media and biomarkers to demonstrate ozone therapy's efficacy.• Why tracking both lab results and subjective assessments is key to understanding treatment efficacy.• How ozone therapy enhances circulation, promotes healing, and supports overall well-being.• Why understanding FDA regulations is important when prescribing off-label treatments like ozone.• How practitioners can safely implement various ozone applications, including IV and musculoskeletal uses.• Why proper training and understanding are crucial for safe and effective ozone therapy.• How resources and training can help practitioners incorporate ozone therapy into their practices.• Why collaboration and ongoing education are essential for success in functional medicine.• How ozone therapy complements peptide therapy, enhancing cellular functions and healing.Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com MedMasters website: https://medmasters.org

Dr. Izabella Wentz, Pharm.D., FASCP is a clinical pharmacist with a passion for healthcare. She earned her Pharm.D. at 23 from Midwestern University Chicago College of Pharmacy, and has trained in functional medicine through various institutions and is a Fellow of the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists. Dr. Wentz was awarded the Excellence in Innovation Award by the Illinois Pharmacists Association in 2013, and has worked as a consultant pharmacist, specializing in complex patient cases and medication safety initiatives. She was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis in 2009, leading her to research lifestyle interventions for thyroid health.Dr. Wentz shares her personal journey today from traditional pharmacy to the realm of functional medicine, highlighting her passion for addressing root causes of health conditions. She explains the complexities of Hashimoto's, discussing the stages of its progression, the importance of early detection, and the role of lifestyle changes in lessening symptoms. Dr. Wentz offers insights into the connection between gut health and thyroid function, emphasizing the significance of addressing gut infections. She also gives a sneak peek of her upcoming podcast, "Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations," promising expert guidance for those on a thyroid health journey.Topics discussed in this episode include:• How Dr. Wentz transitioned from traditional pharmacy to functional medicine.• Why managing Hashimoto's disease requires early detection and a holistic approach.• How lifestyle changes play a crucial role in managing Hashimoto's symptoms.• Why understanding iodine's impact on thyroid health is important in managing Hashimoto's.• How the gut-thyroid connection affects overall thyroid health and symptom management.• Why it's important to balance iodine with selenium and address gut issues before supplementation.• How timing of lab tests is crucial for accurate thyroid medication management.• Why patient education is key in avoiding over-treatment with thyroid medications.• How addressing root causes like nutrient deficiencies and stress can optimize thyroid health.• Why intestinal permeability is a critical factor in autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto's.• Why factors like TSH levels need to be considered in thyroid treatment.• Why comprehensive lifestyle and dietary interventions are pivotal in thyroid wellness.• How Dr. Wentz’s books and resources provide foundational knowledge for managing Hashimoto's disease.Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com Dr. Wentz’s website: https://thyroidpharmacist.com Dr. Wentz on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/izabellawentzpharmd

With over 14 years of experience in Adult-Gerontology care, Krysha Mallari is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner dedicated to optimizing functional health and enhancing quality of life for adults and older adults. Having worked across diverse settings including hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics in inner-city Philadelphia, Krysha has extensive experience managing complex chronic diseases throughout the adult life spectrum. Her background in aesthetic medicine combined with integrative health provides a holistic approach to patient care.We’re exploring the hormonal changes women face during perimenopause in this episode, focusing on estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. Krysha shares her insights on how a holistic approach can support women both internally and externally, addressing symptoms like mood swings, weight changes, and cognitive clarity. We also discuss the importance of comprehensive hormone testing and thyroid health, highlighting the need for accessible and affordable evaluations. By bridging the gap between conventional and integrative medicine, we empower women to navigate these changes with confidence and improve their overall quality of life.Topics discussed in this episode include:• How Krysha transitioned from conventional to integrative medicine and aesthetics.• Why a holistic approach is essential for managing perimenopause and menopause.• How hormonal fluctuations impact mental and physical health, including mood and energy.• Why less-discussed symptoms like migraines and joint pain need attention.• How comprehensive hormone testing aids in effective treatment planning.• Why hormone metabolism often gets overlooked in traditional medical education.• Why estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone levels fluctuate during perimenopause.• Why thyroid health is critical for metabolism and toxin clearance.• How genetics and lifestyle influence perimenopausal symptoms severity.• Why hormone replacement therapy should be personalized to individual risks and needs.• How bioidentical hormones mimic natural hormone functions more closely.• Why strength training and diet are crucial for managing perimenopausal symptoms.• How stress management techniques like mindfulness and breathwork aid hormonal balance.Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com Body and Beauty Lab: https://bodyandbeautylab.comBody and Beauty Lab on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bodyandbeautylabKrysha on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/krysha.np