
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

Jun 24, 2024 • 39min
47. Battle of the Tides with Dr. Kris Wusterhausen
Dr. Kris Wusterhausen, founder of Resurge Clinic, discusses age management medicine and optimizing health through lifestyle changes, nutrition, and hormone balance. He highlights the benefits of peptide therapy in addressing various health issues and emphasizes the importance of education and minimal effective doses for optimal results. The podcast also explores the comparison between Semaglutide and Terzepatide for weight loss, with a focus on collaborative healthcare discussions and social media promotion.

Jun 17, 2024 • 49min
46. Incorporating Regenerative Aesthetics Utilizing Exosomes with Dr. Azza Halim
Dr. Halim is a Board certified Anesthesiologist, fellowship trained in Critical Care/Trauma, Pediatrics, and Pain Management as well as Aesthetic Medicine, Regenerative and Functional Medicine.
Dr. Halim’s medical training began at Northwestern University in Chicago.
She did a research fellowship in pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics prior to her internship in Internal Medicine followed by Residency and Fellowship at Northwestern University in Chicago.
Dr. Halim is an expert with various laser treatments, PDO threads, skincare, BHRT and Nutrition and has 3 Practice locations (Florida, California, and Chicago)
Dr. Halim continued to build her expertise in various areas such as facial rejuvenation, integrative/functional medicine, nutrition, and hyperbaric medicine so that she may combine this knowledge to achieve beauty from inside out with the focus being on each patient’s skincare, diet, fitness as well as lifestyle.
Dr. Halim has a diverse background and is known for her artistic eye when it comes to developing individualized treatment plans to enhance one's appearance. She focuses on the objectives, health and needs of the patient, rather than attacking only one specific obvious problem. Her aim is to create and implement an overall plan that will enable the patient to achieve a complete lasting rejuvenation by treating the patient as a whole, with the latest and most appropriate solutions, she treats the underlying cause not just the effect.
Her broad background in the aesthetic field is credited through her work with a wide range of surgeons and dermatologists who have mentored and extensively trained her over the years.
In this episode, Dr. Halim enlightens us on the potential of regenerative medicine, including the intricacies of stem cells and exosomes, and the importance of adhering to FDA guidelines. She uncovers the complexities and misconceptions of exosomes within the aesthetic and medical communities, and stresses the importance of personalized treatment strategies rather than getting distracted by buzzwords in the industry. We also look at the aesthetic side of healthcare, exploring how innovation and proven techniques come together to create beauty through science.
Topics discussed in this episode include:
Why continuous education is critical in Dr. Halim's approach to healthcare.
How pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics inform Dr. Halim's practice.
Understanding the science of regenerative medicine to
influence patient outcomes.
How Dr. Halim navigates FDA guidelines in stem cell and exosome therapies.
Why individualized medical assessments are key in Dr. Halim's patient care strategies.
How Dr. Halim integrates artistry in aesthetic treatments for holistic health.
What challenges and opportunities exist in regenerative orthopedics and aesthetic medicine.
How Dr. Halim balances innovation with proven techniques in aesthetic procedures.
Why product research and peer consultation are important in aesthetic medicine.
How Dr. Halim's personal life, including her twins' achievements, influences her practice.
Why staying informed on regulatory statuses like exosome use is essential for practitioners.
How different medical backgrounds enhance approaches to functional and aesthetic healthcare.
Why a multifaceted medical career path benefits patient
care.
Addressing misconceptions about exosomes in the scientific community.
Why personalizing hair loss treatments is more effective
than one-size-fits-all approaches.
How Dr. Halim's dedication to her family reflects her
commitment to her patients' health.
Follow our Instagram https://instagram.com/yoodirecthealth_aesthetics
or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com/
Dr. Azza Halim: https://www.azzamdbeauty.com/
Dr. Azza Halim on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/azzamdbeauty/

Jun 2, 2024 • 48min
45. HRT Myth vs Fact with Dr. Suzanne Ferree
Dr. Suzanne Ferree, a double board-certified physician, shares insights on hormone optimization, debunking testosterone myths in women's health. Discussions include the benefits of bioidentical hormones, personalized treatment plans, and collaborative hormone management for patients with epilepsy. Emphasizing ongoing education in alternative medicine and peptides for optimal patient outcomes.

May 20, 2024 • 58min
44. Breast Implant Illness with Dr. Christine Kelley
Dr. Christine Kelley, a plastic surgeon specializing in breast and torso surgery, discusses her groundbreaking work on Breast Implant Illness (BII), including the challenges in diagnosing and treating BII patients, considerations for breast augmentation in autoimmune individuals, and the role of supplements in pre and postoperative care. The podcast delves into detox strategies, the choice between implants and fat transfer procedures, and the importance of monitoring for ruptures and exploring potential treatments beyond explantation.

May 6, 2024 • 38min
43. From Operating Rooms to Integrative Medicine: A Paradigm Shift with Dr. Stephen Ellis
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. He is a proud alumnus of Texas A&M University – Gig ‘em Aggies!
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. He has two favorite organizations where he donates most of his time and energy – MS 150 and Faith in Practice.
Faith in Practice organizes surgical teams that serve the poorest of the poor in Guatemala. Every year he travels, along with other physicians and staff, and volunteers his time for a full week. He provides the anesthesia for all the surgical cases and is the resident “handyman” with all the old equipment in the hospital.
Dr. Ellis highly respects anyone who has served our country and he enjoys working out in extreme settings such as Seal Fit and Go Ruck. He has supported numerous organizations over the years who give back to wounded vets and also supports athletic functions whose proceeds benefit them as well.
According to his wife, Sonya, he is a fabulous husband and father. Not only has he always supported his wife in her many business endeavors but has always found the time to be an ever-present role model in their son, Cade’s life! Even though they are empty nesters since their son started attending Texas A&M University, they both enjoy a 106lb Labradoodle named Tux. They also enjoy time with friends and traveling the world when they have the time.
Dr. Ellis joins us in this episode to discuss his evolution from an anesthesiologist to a pioneer in integrative medicine. Discover the journey that led him to merge his clinical expertise with a passion for wellness, creating a place for health that combines beauty and well-being. We’ll showcase how a patient's journey can be enhanced when internal health becomes part of the external beauty equation. We share examples of treatments that bridge the gap, like the multifaceted applications of semaglutide, and discuss the intricacies of guiding patients toward a complete understanding of their health.
Topics discussed in this
episode include:
Why blending beauty with health leads to a holistic approach to patient care.
What motivated Dr. Ellis to pursue a career in functional and anti-aging medicine.
How the combination of wellness and aesthetics enhances patient experiences.
Why continuous learning is vital in healthcare, particularly for those changing career focus.
How Dr. Ellis's self-experimentation in functional medicine informs his practice.
How treatments like semaglutide can impact both weight management and cardiovascular health.
Why educating patients about the connection between internal health and external beauty is essential.
What challenges practitioners face when managing both aesthetic and wellness treatments.
How hiring or partnering with experts can benefit a practice offering comprehensive care.
Why vigilance in hormone therapy monitoring is needed for patient safety.
How semaglutide usage requires careful management around surgical procedures.
What considerations are necessary when dealing with hormone therapy stacking.
Why collaboration between healthcare providers is necessary for optimal patient care.
How upcoming training and events with Dr. Ellis can offer insights into integrative practices.
Follow our Instagram https://instagram.com/yoodirecthealth_aesthetics
or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com/
The L.A.B. Med Spa: https://www.thelabmedspa.com/
Dr. Stephen Ellis on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drellis_thelabmedspa
Dr. Sonya Ellis on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sonya_thelabmedspa/

Apr 22, 2024 • 55min
42. Advanced Cardiometabolic Testing, a New Frontier of Precision Medicine with Dr. 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.
When Dr. Jones retired from the military and began his corporate life, he noticed he felt tired, anxious, stressed, and depressed. He suffered from constant pain due to worsening injuries to his low back and knees. His primary care doctors presented pharmaceutical and surgical options to address his concerns, but Dr. Jones knew there had to be better options that were not being offered.
The determination and motivation instilled in him by his family and Naval service led Dr. Jones to research and investigate every method that had potential for improving his health. This included diet, hormone replacement, stress management, regenerative injections, IV therapy and much more. This journey eventually led him to Naturopathic Medicine – the evidence-based approach to medicine that embraces finding the root cause of illness, treating the whole person.
Fast forward to today and Dr. Jones practices functional medicine with an emphasis on pain relief and regenerative therapy, peptide therapy, IV therapy, and hormone replacement. 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.
Today’s episode focuses of cardiometabolic health, blending the worlds of functional and anti-aging medicine with practical, everyday strategies. Dr. Jones presents his expertise on foundational health, the surprising efficacy of peptides, and a deep dive into the roles hormones play in maintaining our cardiovascular system. We’ll also hear revelations regarding cholesterol markers that challenge conventional wisdom and offer new hope for heart health.
Topics discussed in this episode include:
How Dr. Jones transitioned from military and aerospace engineering to naturopathic medicine.
Why foundational health impacts treatment outcomes and recovery.
What role peptides play in Dr. Jones' naturopathic practice.
How obesity, inflammation, and insulin resistance are interconnected and impact heart health.
Why inflammation disrupts insulin signaling and leads to cardiometabolic diseases.
How lifestyle choices like diet, stress, and sleep influence inflammation and overall health.
Why GLP-1 and GIP medications are beneficial for controlling insulin and inflammation.
What the endothelium's function is in vascular health and how its dysfunction can lead to cardiovascular issues.
How reversing inflammation could potentially reverse high cholesterol.
Why hormone optimization is crucial in comprehensive health management.
How thyroid hormones and testosterone levels correlate with lipid levels and cardiovascular health.
What key risk factors need to be managed for long-term cardiometabolic health.
How advanced cholesterol markers like ApoB are used to inform risk assessment.
What the Boston Heart Test reveals about cholesterol production and absorption.
Which nutritional supplements, such as Omega 3s and niacin, are effective for heart health.
Why collaboration and idea-sharing are essential in the functional and anti-aging medical community.
Follow our Instagram https://instagram.com/yoodirecthealth_aesthetics
or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com/
Dr. Greg Jones on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctorjones_doctorjones/
Optimization Academy with Dr. Greg
Jones: https://thedrjonespodcast.com/
Enovative Wellness Center: https://enovativewellness.com/

Apr 10, 2024 • 24min
41. Next-Level Nutraceuticals: The Power of iCell Water and Guttides with Dr. Pastrana
In today’s episode, unlock the secrets to revitalization with Dr. Leonard Pastrana, whose expertise in functional and anti-aging medicine is transforming lives. This episode takes us through the latest advancements in health optimization, including the challenge of finding new, effective treatments for gut health and weight loss in the wake of peptides being off-limits. Dr. Pastrana shares his innovative alternatives that are making waves in the medical community, alongside essential tools like metabolic breath analysis and VO2 max testing. We’ll also hear about how iCell Water is making a substantial impact and how the idea to create it came about.
Topics discussed in this
episode include:
How Dr. Leonard Pastrana is changing lives with functional and anti-aging medicine.
Why innovative treatments for gut health and weight loss are necessary post-peptides.
How metabolic breath analysis and VO2 max testing improve patient outcomes.
Why nutraceuticals like Perfect Aminos and iCell Water have become vital in health optimization.
How working with high-end athletes influenced the creation of iCell water.
How the combination of BPC and KPV combats systemic inflammation and gut issues.
Why KPV targets inflammation in the intestine and its potential aesthetic applications.
Why these peptides may aid cognitive recovery post-COVID.
What innovative alternatives to peptides are available for gut and weight loss treatments.
How practitioners can integrate new health solutions into their practices.
Why tracking treatment efficacy is essential for optimizing health.
How the collaboration between researchers and practitioners elevates medicine.
Why hydration is critical when using nutraceuticals for health benefits.
How iCell Water and other supplements complement therapies for patient well-being.
How Dr. Pastrana's insights at the Peptide World Congress could influence future therapies.
Follow our Instagram https://instagram.com/yoodirecthealth_aesthetics
or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com/
Dr. Pastrana on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leonardpastrana
nuBioAge on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nubioagewellnessnetwork/

Mar 20, 2024 • 24min
40. Innovations in Regenerative Aesthetics with Kim Look
Kim Look discusses her experience in functional medicine and IV therapy, with a focus on regenerative aesthetics. The podcast covers upcoming training events, ozone and ultraviolet therapies, and the balance between creativity and business in aesthetics. They also explore the evolution of regenerative aesthetics, hands-on learning, and practical tips for enhancing patient experiences.

Mar 18, 2024 • 36min
39. Integrative Strategies to Hormone Testing and Fertility with Dr. Jaclyn Smeaton
Dr. Jaclyn Smeaton, an expert on integrative approaches to infertility and reproductive health, shares insights on hormone testing, fertility, and empowering women in reproductive medicine. She discusses the importance of comprehensive hormonal analysis, the role of supplements in fertility support, and the benefits of nicotinamide ribos on uterine health in IVF. The conversation also touches on IVF treatments, hormonal health, and the impact of early menopause.

Mar 4, 2024 • 35min
38. Digging into Sexual Wellness with Dr. Joelle Lieman
Dr. Joelle Lieman is a Board Certified Obstetrician and Gynecologist and member of the American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine (AAAM). For over 20 years she has been considered a leader in the field, providing a personalized and reassuring approach to aesthetic medicine by using the most sophisticated, cutting-edge technologies and advanced medical techniques. Through a prescribed customized plan, Dr. Lieman delivers a natural,
non-artificial result that enables you to immediately feel like a better version of yourself. Her clinical experience and surgical skills produce a “natural” result that gracefully rolls back the hands of time without looking artificial.
In January 2016, Dr. Lieman realized her vision of opening a science-led, luxury medspa where she and her staff of highly trained professionals provide a personalized and reassuring approach to aesthetic medicine. She has since grown her practice to include a more holistic approach to beauty with the addition of nature-based wellness
services and experiences…redefining outer and inner self-care for everyone.
In this episode, Dr. Lieman opens up about the hurdles she's overcome and the crucial role that passion plays in her approach to patient care. As we unravel the often undiscussed intricacies of women's sexual health, we pay special attention to how Dr. Lieman's practice is revolutionizing the experience of countless patients by bringing these essential conversations to the light. We’ll also tackle the multifaceted nature of sexual dysfunction, dissecting the various contributing factors that often go overlooked such as medication side effects, lifestyle changes, and the natural aging process.
Topics discussed in this episode include:
How Dr. Lehman's career evolved from obstetrics and
gynecology to aesthetics and sexual wellness.
Why integrating GYN knowledge into aesthetic medicine is crucial for patient happiness.
What factors contribute to sexual dysfunction, including hormonal shifts and medication effects.
How treatments like the O shot and the P shot can address sexual wellness issues.
Why a holistic approach, considering lifestyle and muscular factors, is important for sexual health.
What the process and impact of PRP injections are, particularly the O shot procedure.
How the O shot can immediately impact urinary incontinence and regenerate scar tissue.
When patients can expect to see the full effects of PRP treatments.
Why vaginal rejuvenation and cosmetic procedures are gaining popularity.
How patient comfort is managed during sensitive procedures like vaginal rejuvenation.
What considerations are made when selecting devices for treatments like ThermiVa.
How training sessions are structured for hands-on learning in aesthetic medicine.
Why openness towards sexual wellness is growing in mainstream culture.
How practitioners should approach sexual health treatments with passion and dedication.
Follow our Instagram https://instagram.com/yoodirecthealth_aesthetics
or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com/
Elite Medspa: https://myelitemedspa.com/
Dr. Joelle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjoellelieman
Elite Medspa on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/myelitemedspa/
Elite Academy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/my.eliteacademy/