
The Better Yoo Project: Optimizing Health, Hormones and Aesthetics.
The Better Yoo Project Podcast is a weekly series covering the topics of functional medicine, case studies from her practice, nutrition of all varieties (Keto, Paleo, Vegan, Pegan, Macros, Low Fod Map, Cardiometabolic) etc, the role of the nurse practitioner, entrepreneur, hormones optimization, injectables and aesthetics, fitness and recovery, nutragenomics and supplement use!
The host is Lexi Yoo NP, wife -mom-small business owner- nurse practitioner, hormone balancer, gut guru, thyroid investigator, fitness fanatic, and health hacker out of the Hoosier State.
Latest episodes

Feb 10, 2025 • 36min
67. Optimizing Weight Loss with InBody Testing: Insights for Integrative Medicine
Bradley Davie has followed his passion and pursued a knowledge and understanding of how the right choices in life can nourish both the human body and soul. He is a well-rounded and experienced expert who can help clients achieve their health goals in a holistic and effective way. Bradley has a Bachelor’s in Kinesiology & Physical Education from the University of Maine, and has worked as a health coach since 2011. He works with his students as they create and obtain their goals in healthy living. For the past 8 years, he has been helping companies implement InBody’s Ecosystem of Health Assessment Tools, including body composition analyzers, blood pressure monitors, and grip strength dynamometers.InBody technology is transforming healthcare by providing a more detailed understanding of body composition beyond traditional metrics like BMI. In this episode, Bradley shares his journey from studying kinesiology to influencing functional medicine practices, highlighting how InBody tools enhance clinical outcomes and business growth. We explore key health metrics such as lean body mass, visceral fat score, and body fat percentage, offering advice on how to help your clients reach their goals. We also cover essential preparation for accurate InBody results, emphasizing the importance of consistency and understanding the impact of factors like fasting and menstrual cycles. Integrating InBody technology into your medical practice really can revolutionize patient care and accountability.Topics discussed in this episode include:• Why InBody technology enhances functional medicine practices.• How lean body mass, visceral fat score, and body fat percentage aid in health goal setting.• Why reducing visceral fat is so crucial for better overall health.• The benefits of InBody offering an app for clients to track their progress.• Why preparation and consistency are key for accurate InBody test results.• How fasting, exercise, and menstrual cycle can have an impact on InBody readings.• Why integrating InBody technology enhances patient care and accountability.• How InBody tools track health progress and improve patient outcomes.• Why peptide therapy requires careful monitoring of muscle mass changes.• How semaglutide prescriptions should be managed with proper oversight.• Why protein intake and resistance training are needed for maintaining lean mass.• How InBody technology can serve as a "sixth vital sign" in medical practices.• Why long-term data from InBody tests can enhance health insights within your practice.• How practices can optimize offerings by integrating InBody.Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com/Learn more about Bradley: https://bradleydavie.comLearn more about InBody: https://inbodyusa.com/beyondthescale

Feb 5, 2025 • 57min
66. Testosterone & Cardiovascular Health – Breaking the Myths with Dr. Abid Husain
Dr. Abid Husain is an established cardiologist in the conventional healthcare system. Over the years, while treating patients in a traditional hospital setting, he realized the limitations of this system firsthand. Because of this, he began seeking a way to provide highly impactful, preventative care. After dedicating years to education in functional medicine and the leading-edge research on the biotechnologies of anti-aging, he has found it. Today, his practice Interlinked MD combines each of these modalities to provide the most comprehensive range of care available.
Dr. Husain leads the discussion in this episode into the misunderstood world of testosterone therapy, debunking myths and exploring its benefits for cardiovascular health. Dr. Husain provides insights on managing testosterone therapy safely, discussing delivery methods and the art of hormonal balance. With the help of pivotal studies, we equip practitioners with the necessary knowledge to optimize patient outcomes. We also explore innovative treatments, including peptides and compounds like tesamorelin and MOTS-c, for enhanced heart health.
Topics discussed in this episode include:
• Why a holistic approach is crucial for chronic disease management, including lifestyle and diet.
• How functional medicine offers new perspectives on heart disease prevention.
• The cardiovascular benefits provided by testosterone therapy.
• How informed consent and patient rapport are vital in testosterone therapy integration.
• What risks are associated with testosterone therapy, such as erythrocytosis, and how to manage them.
• How lifestyle factors influence testosterone and estradiol management in personalized medicine.
• Why peptides like tesamorelin, thymosin beta-4, and MOTS-c are promising for heart health.
• How testosterone therapy benefits both men and women in performance and cellular health.
• Why the TRAVERSE trial has been so useful in validating testosterone therapy's cardiovascular safety.
• How testosterone therapy can promote heart health and aid recovery post-cardiovascular events.
• What testosterone levels are optimal for different patients and why personalized ranges matter.
• How traditional and modern medical practices can be integrated for improved heart care.
• Why gut health might impact estrogen metabolism, highlighting the role of personalized treatments.
• How NAD-related treatments and other compounds contribute to cardiovascular and mitochondrial health.
Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com
Interlinked MD: https://interlinkedmd.com
Boulder Longevity Institute: https://boulderlongevity.com

Jan 27, 2025 • 1h 8min
65. Old Drugs, New Uses: Exploring Repurposed Medications in Health and Longevity
Dr. Elizabeth Yurth, MD, is the Chief Medical Officer of Boulder Longevity Institute, specializing in advanced human optimization medicine, including regenerative therapies and health optimization. A double-board-certified orthopedist with over 27 years of experience, she holds multiple fellowships in regenerative and cellular medicine. Dr. Yurth lectures nationally, consults with elite athletes, and produces educational content through BLI’s Human Optimization Academy. She has over 600 hours of continuing medical education in longevity and regenerative medicine. Passionate about cutting-edge treatments, she integrates her expertise with personal insights as an athlete and mother to inspire and educate her clients worldwide.
This conversation has Dr. Yurth introducing us to the potential of repurposed drugs, such as pentosan polysulfate and low-dose naltrexone, highlighting their roles in reducing inflammation and modulating the immune system. She also talks about the benefits of repurposing drugs in general, including the fact that they have already achieved FDA clearance, which makes them ready to use in new applications immediately. Dr. Yurth continues on to explain innovative applications of medications like telmisartan and methylene blue, showing their benefits for metabolic health, neuroprotection, and overall well-being. We also hear what Dr. Yurth’s personal favorite longevity drug is and why.
Topics discussed in this episode include:
• How Dr. Yurth transitioned from traditional orthopedics to holistic and longevity medicine.
• Why joint health should be viewed as part of an inflammatory disease process.
• How regenerative orthopedics can reduce heavy reliance on surgical solutions.
• The potential of repurposing FDA-approved drugs for new medical applications.
• How pentosan polysulfate offers anti-inflammatory and tissue-regenerative benefits.
• Why communication with patients about drug risks is always necessary.
• Pentosan polysulfate, low-dose naltrexone, and their impact on cardiovascular health and autoimmune conditions.
• Why low-dose naltrexone is effective for chronic pain and autoimmunity.
• How telmisartan supports metabolic health and neuroprotection.
• Why methylene blue can provide benefits to energy production and mental health.
• The evolving landscape of medicine with drugs like amlexanox and metformin alternatives.
• How amlexanox reduces inflammation and supports weight management.
• Why telmisartan is underappreciated for its longevity and metabolic benefits.
• How aspirin and methylene blue support endothelial health and energy production.
• What Dr. Yurth offers through Human Optimization Academy.
Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com/
Boulder Longevity Institute: https://boulderlongevity.com/
Human Optimization Academy: https://bli.academy/
Dr. Yurth on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dryurth/
Boulder Longevity Institute on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boulderlongevityinstitute/

Jan 13, 2025 • 43min
64. Beauty from the Inside Out: The Business of Aesthetics and Wellness
Racquel Frisella is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner and the Founder & CEO of Racquel Aesthetics and RFA Medical Grade Skincare. As a nationally recognized trainer for Galderma and Allergan, along with her training program, The RA Way, she has the privilege of sharing her extensive knowledge and expertise with fellow professionals across the aesthetic field. With over 16 years of experience in aesthetics, Racquel is devoted to empowering individuals to feel confident and beautiful in their own skin. Her commitment to the latest aesthetic innovations, combined with her personable approach, makes her a sought-after provider nationwide. Her philosophy of "look good, feel good" emphasizes the importance of confidence in all aspects of life. By fostering long-term relationships with her patients and offering customized facial rejuvenation treatments, Racquel is passionate about helping others achieve their beauty and wellness goals.
Racquel shares her insights on the importance of integrity and dedication in building a successful business, which relates to how she is progressively implementing more functional medicine aspects to her practice. We discuss the need for a comprehensive approach to wellness that goes beyond quick fixes, emphasizing the integration of various health practices to enhance both internal health and external appearance. We also get into Racquel's journey in creating and relaunching a comprehensive skincare line, including how her practice utilizes AI to make the best choices for patients on which products to use.
Topics discussed in this episode include:
• How Racquel transitioned from aesthetics to functional medicine and her experiences in both fields.
• Why holistic care is so much more effective compared to quick fixes like semaglutide or IV treatments.
• How balancing personal well-being, family, and career is essential for business leaders.
• Why creating a comprehensive skincare line is important to Racquel.
• How mentorship and collaboration help in overcoming challenges when building your practice.
• Racquel’s focus on building a strong foundation before her full launch in 2025.
• How the entire aesthetics industry is evolving to integrate wellness treatments for full-circle care.
• Why personal happiness and life satisfaction are key for women business owners to balance.
• How AI technology is used on Racquel’s website to personalize skincare routines.
• Why the benefits of self-care extend beyond personal benefit and into improving other people’s lives.
• How the training process for Racquel’s new nurse injectors has been made simple.
Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com/
RFA Skincare: https://www.rfaskincare.com/
Racquel’s website: https://www.racquelfrisella.com/
RFA Skincare on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rfaskincare/
Racquel on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/racquelfrisella/

Dec 30, 2024 • 29min
63. Kyzatrex - A New Oral Testosterone Option
Hayden Collier, PharmD is the director of clinical services at nuBioAge. He is committed to advancing healthcare through innovative, patient-centered approaches. With a passion for weightlifting, he draws parallels between the discipline of fitness and the importance of prevention in modern medicine. Hayden’s expertise extends beyond the pharmacy, blending sports science with cutting-edge medical strategies to redefine how we approach health and longevity. A dedicated husband, father, and sportsman, he brings the same focus and energy to both personal and professional life, always striving to inspire others to take charge of their well-being.
Dr. Collier joins us today to discuss innovative testosterone therapies, particularly focusing on Kyzatrex, a groundbreaking oral testosterone formulation. Hayden explains the unique delivery system of Kyzatrex, which bypasses first-pass metabolism to enhance safety and effectiveness, and how it challenges traditional testosterone therapy norms. He sheds light on the distinct differences in dosing and bioavailability between Kyzatrex and conventional therapies, offering new possibilities for preserving hormonal functions while delivering effective results. We also tackle the often-overlooked topic of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) for women, discussing both its potential benefits and the obstacles it faces.
Topics discussed in this episode include:
• How Dr. Collier transitioned from retail pharmacy to functional and anti-aging medicine.
• How Kyzatrex offers safety benefits through a unique delivery system.
• Why Kyzatrex is changing perceptions with its short-acting ester and liver-friendly delivery system.
• How Kyzatrex's dosing and bioavailability advantages improve hormonal functions throughout the day.
• Why testosterone replacement therapy for women faces challenges and industry resistance.
• How studies on trans men provide insights into potential TRT benefits for women.
• Why Kyzatrex is only available through select pharmacies and not major chains.
• How nuBioAge enhances practitioner access and education regarding testosterone therapies.
• Using YDH Academy’s courses to advance functional medicine practice and education.
• Why it's important to understand Kyzatrex's pharmacokinetics and delivery system for effective use.
• How testosterone therapy's stigma affects patient willingness to seek out treatment.
• Why Kyzatrex may offer fewer side effects like erythrocytosis compared to traditional therapies.
• How patient consultation and informed decision-making are vital when considering off-label therapies.
Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com/
nuBioAge website: https://wwwnubioage.com/
Dr. Hayden Collier on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haydencollier_pharmd/

Dec 16, 2024 • 1h
62. Unlocking Longevity: Peptides, Biomarkers, and the Hallmarks of Aging with Greg Jones
Dr. Greg Jones is a licensed Naturopathic Medical Doctor and earned his degree in Naturopathic Medicine with honors from the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine (SCNM) in Tempe, Arizona. After a 20-year career in the United States Navy, Dr. Jones pursued a career in aerospace engineering before discovering his true passion lied in Naturopathic Medicine. Dr. Jones has received extensive training in regenerative injection therapy, IV nutritional therapy, bio-identical hormone replacement therapy, and peptide therapy. Dr. Jones’s goal for every patient is optimal health, energy, and happiness.
Along with Dr. Jones, we’re exploring aging in this episode. We explain the distinction between lifespan and healthspan, emphasizing the latter's importance for a quality life. Dr. Jones shares insights into various aging theories, including genetic predispositions and mitochondrial dysfunction, offering advice for influencing our aging journey through personalized interventions. We also discuss the potential of peptide therapies, such as GHK-Cu and mitochondrial peptides, in promoting healthy aging and combating oxidative stress. Throughout the talk, we highlight the significance of understanding biomarkers and intervention strategies to track and enhance longevity.
Topics discussed in this episode include:
• How Dr. Jones differentiates between lifespan and healthspan in aging.
• Why focusing on healthspan is more beneficial than just extending lifespan.
• How genetic predispositions and mitochondrial dysfunction contribute to the aging process.
• Why Dr. Jones strongly believes lifestyle adjustments can influence aging.
• How biomarkers and intervention strategies can combat aging's hallmarks.
• Why understanding immune dysfunction and neuroendocrine decline is vital in aging.
• How peptide therapies, like GHK-Cu and SS-31, promote longevity.
• Why monitoring oxidative stress and DNA damage is crucial for cellular health.
• How methylation and telomere testing provide insights into cellular aging.
• Why NAD and mitochondrial peptides are essential for healthier aging.
• How lifestyle choices impact inflammation and cellular senescence.
• Why personalized health strategies can extend healthspan effectively.
• How emerging treatments and therapies offer hope for healthier aging.
• Why sourcing peptides from reputable providers ensures safe and effective treatment.
Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com/
Dr. Greg Jones on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctorjones_doctorjones/

Dec 2, 2024 • 45min
61. Exploring Fatty Acids and Functional Medicine: How Fatty15 and Functional Medicine Empower Your Health
Dr. Stephanie Venn-Watson is the CEO of Seraphina Therapeutics. A seasoned veterinary epidemiologist and public health scientist, Stephanie previously served at the World Health Organization and U.S. Navy. With a life-long mission of helping people (and our fellow animals) age better, Stephanie’s award winning approach to improving human and animal health has been featured on NPR, BBC, CBS, and National Geographic. In her time as CEO, Seraphina Therapeutics has been recognized for its extensive research and education on pentadecanoic acid (C15:0).
In this conversation, Dr. Venn-Watson explains how she was led to a groundbreaking discovery of the remarkable fatty acid, C15:0. We explore how this nutrient, and its supplement form Fatty15, holds the potential to revolutionize heart health, metabolism, and immunity, offering an alternative to traditional omega-3s without the drawbacks. We highlight the intricate mechanisms of C15:0 and its role in longevity medicine, comparing its effects to well-known agents like rapamycin and metformin. Dr. Venn-Watson also shares compelling research on C15:0's benefits for conditions such as type 2 diabetes and fatty liver disease, emphasizing its potential to improve sleep and mood, particularly in hormone management.
Topics discussed in this episode include:
· How Dr. Venn-Watson transitioned from veterinary medicine to discovering a significant fatty acid.
· How C15:0 and Fatty 15 could revolutionize heart health, metabolism, and immunity.
· Why Fatty15 is considered a promising alternative to traditional omega-3 supplements.
· How Fatty15 fits into longevity medicine alongside agents like rapamycin and metformin.
· What the mechanisms are behind C15:0's activation of PPARs and inhibition of JAK/STAT.
· How C15:0's anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties may position it as a geroprotector.
· Why research funded by the Navy led to the development of a pure C15:0 supplement.
· How patient compliance and quality in supplements affect clinical practice integration.
· Why consistent use of Fatty15 shows benefits like improved sleep and enhanced mood.
· How C15:0 impacts conditions like type 2 diabetes and fatty liver disease.
· What insights can be gained from recent studies on C15:0's role in gut health and metabolism.
· The significance of maintaining cellular health and longevity.
· How Steph's work with dolphins contributed to discoveries in anti-aging science.
Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com/
Fatty15 website: https://fatty15.com/
Fatty15 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fatty15/
Fatty15 on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fatty15/

Nov 25, 2024 • 20min
60. The Clinical Application of Longevity Medicine – Future of Health
Dr. Leonard Pastrana is with us today unpack what insights will be on display at the CALM ‘25 conference from February 28 to March 1 in Miami. We talk about the vital shift from theoretical knowledge to practical applications in clinical settings, and I share my experiences preparing a presentation on testosterone replacement therapy for women, highlighting its potential to enhance both longevity and quality of life. We also discuss the business aspects of medicine and the role of strategic partnerships in advancing clinical practice. Additionally, we introduce an exciting longevity certification launching in 2025.
Topics discussed in this episode include:
• How the CALM ‘25 conference focuses on practical education in longevity medicine.
• Why there is a need for moving from theory to actionable clinical applications in medicine.
• How testosterone replacement therapy in women can impact longevity and quality of life.
• Why strategic partnerships elevate clinical practice with evidence-based protocols.
• How CALM ‘25 unites top educators and practitioners for innovative insights.
• The all-star lineup on speakers that will appear at CALM ’25.
• Why live events spark energy and innovation, enhancing collaboration among us practitioners.
• How the conference aims to empower participants to apply new knowledge immediately.
• Why diverse content is offered for attendees, from beginners to seasoned practitioners.
• How attendees can expect to enhance their practices and foster collaboration.
• Why the conference includes diagnostic tools and methodologies for clinical applications.
• The new longevity certification set to launch in 2025, which will first be revealed at the event.
Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com/
Register for CALM ’25: https://nubioage.com/wearecalm/?ref=lexi&utm_campaign=calm
Dr. Leonard Pastrana on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leonardpastrana

Nov 18, 2024 • 46min
59. Cellular Energy: Exploring NAD, DNF-10, and BAM15 with Anthony Castore
Anthony Castore brings over 30 years of experience as a strength coach, working with professional athletes across four sports, top executives, and everyday individuals aiming to optimize their quality of life and healthspan. His career is marked by a dedication to excellence and a passion for optimization, which has driven him to continually expand his knowledge in various domains of health and fitness. Anthony has presented three times at the prestigious SWIS conference, sharing his insights and expertise with a global audience. He has also served as an instructor for the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), where he imparted his knowledge to the next generation of trainers. His mentorship under world-renowned strength coach Charles Poliquin and internationally recognized Dr. Eric Serrano has equipped him with the skills to design tailored training, diet, and lifestyle protocols for a diverse range of clients.
Anthony's journey in optimization has led him to pursue extensive education in hormones, nutrition, supplements, and, more recently, peptides. He has attended four Peptide World Congresses and 11 Masterminds, completed all eight courses and peptide certifications through the SSRP Institute, and actively contributed to their discussion boards. His training includes Peptide Therapy 1 and 2, as well as Weight Loss Mastery, IV Peptides, and Peptides for Injury Repair through A4M. As a consultant, Anthony collaborates with top researchers and physicians worldwide, ensuring he remains at the forefront of health and optimization. He maintains a rigorous schedule, completing 7-10 courses per year to stay ahead in the industry. Despite being one of the industry's best-kept secrets, Anthony's humble demeanor and relentless passion for learning continue to set him apart as a leader in the field.
Anthony brings us into the world of cellular energy and peptides in this episode. We check out Anthony's inspiring journey to becoming a specialist in strength and conditioning, enriched by mentorship from legends like Dr. Eric Serrano. We talk about the science of NAD supplementation and peptide therapy, revealing their crucial roles in maintaining energy levels and optimizing metabolism. Anthony shares insights on innovative peptides like DNF-10 and BAM-15, discussing their potential in weight management and treating metabolic diseases.
Topics discussed in this episode include:
• How elite athletes optimize energy levels and health with Anthony's expertise.
• Why peptides are crucial for enhancing athletic performance.
• Why NAD supplementation is vital for maintaining optimal energy levels.
• How NAD can be administered through IV, intranasal, and subcutaneous methods.
• What enzymes like CD38 and NNMT do in NAD metabolism.
• How supplements like nicotinamide riboside and nicotinamide mononucleotide boost NAD production.
• Why managing NAD levels is challenging due to aging and inflammation.
• How DNF-10 peptide regulates appetite and boosts metabolism through the ghrelin pathway.
• Why combining DNF-10 with growth hormone secretagogues is beneficial.
• How BAM-15 mitochondrial uncoupler aids in fat loss and treats metabolic diseases.
• Why DNP was banned despite its initial success in weight loss.
• How BAM-15 could revolutionize approaches to metabolic and degenerative diseases.
• Why practitioners need to stay informed about new peptide innovations and cellular pathways.
• What innovative approaches are taken by practitioners to understand cellular pathways.
• How peptide innovation continues to evolve despite regulatory challenges.
• Why staying flexible and informed is crucial for better patient care.
Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com/
Anthony Castore on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anthonycastore/

Nov 4, 2024 • 24min
58. The Science of Skin Regeneration: Exploring PDRN and Salmon Sperm in Aesthetics
We’re welcoming Dr. Lanna Cheuck in this episode, a former robotic urologist who pivoted to become a pioneering aesthetics expert. Dr. Cheuck discusses the science behind PDRN (polydeoxyribonucleotides), a treatment that has been popular in Asia for years that is now making its way to the US, and its role in cell regeneration. PDRN is derived from salmon DNA, and it being from a natural source has led to it being a key ingredient in the regenerative medicine space. We explore the benefits of skin boosters, comparing topical cosmeceuticals with injectable treatments, and discuss the burgeoning trend of skin boosters poised to revolutionize the aesthetics industry.
Topics discussed in this episode include:
• Why personal adversity led Dr. Cheuck to explore functional and regenerative medicine.
• An introduction to PDRN and its role in cell regeneration.
• Comparison of PDRN's popularity in Asia with its emerging presence in the US.
• Salmon DNA’s role as the source of PDRN, and other surprising uses of the DNA.
• Explanation of the benefits of skin boosters, including enhanced collagen production and reduced inflammation.
• How skin boosters offer minimally invasive alternatives to traditional fillers.
• What the anticipated growth in the skin booster industry looks like.
• The application of PDRN in regenerative medicine and its historical use in Korea.
• How PDRN promotes cell regeneration, and the science behind its effectiveness.
• Which environmental and genetic factors accelerate the aging process.
• What the regulatory hurdles are that PDRN faces during the US FDA approval process.
• How PDRN reduces downtime post-treatment and its anti-inflammatory properties.
• The importance of education and staying updated with medical advancements in aesthetics.
Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com/
Dr. Lanna Cheuck on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctorlanna
Dr. Lanna Cheuck on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@doctorlanna