

The Metabolic Link
Dr. Dominic D'Agostino PhD, Dr. Angela Poff PhD, and Victoria Field
Welcome to The Metabolic Link, a medical and science podcast that explores the common thread of metabolism in health and disease. Join Dr. Dominic D'Agostino PhD, Dr. Angela Poff PhD, and Victoria Field as they dive into the latest research on metabolic health and therapy alongside some of the world’s leading experts. They'll also discuss how this science is being applied in the real world. This is where science meets society.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 22, 2025 • 1h 2min
Diabetes: Nutrition & Cardiometabolic Health | Andrew Koutnik, PhD | The Metabolic Link Ep.72
In this insightful discussion, Andrew Koutnik, a research scientist at the Sansom Diabetes Research Institute, sheds light on the surprising stagnation in blood sugar control for Type 1 diabetes despite technological advancements. He reveals groundbreaking findings on carbohydrate intake and its effects on glycemic management. Dr. Koutnik also explores the long-term safety of low-carb diets through a unique decade-long case study, emphasizing nutrition as a crucial, yet underutilized, tool in diabetes care and its impact on cardiovascular health.

11 snips
Jul 8, 2025 • 1h 3min
Journal Club: Prenatal Sugar Exposure & a Metabolic Therapy Framework for Brain Cancer | Ep.71
Discover groundbreaking research on prenatal sugar exposure and its long-term effects on health, including reduced risks of type 2 diabetes and hypertension. Learn about the historical context of sugar rationing and its impact on childhood health. The discussion also highlights challenges parents face in managing sugar consumption and the need for systemic policy changes. Additionally, explore innovative ketogenic metabolic therapies for glioblastoma and the importance of collaborative approaches in cancer treatment, emphasizing the integration of diet and exercise.

7 snips
Jun 25, 2025 • 1h 43min
The Great Obesity Debate: Energy Balance vs Fructose - Dr. Layne Norton & Dr. Richard Johnson | Ep.70
In this engaging debate, Dr. Richard Johnson, an expert on the impact of fructose in obesity, and Dr. Layne Norton, a nutrition scientist and bodybuilder, clash over the root causes of America’s obesity crisis. They explore the roles of sugar-sweetened beverages, leptin resistance, and the intricacies of energy balance versus fructose consumption. Both agree on one point: our food environment significantly contributes to metabolic dysfunction. Their lively discussion challenges common perceptions surrounding diet and weight management.

Jun 10, 2025 • 1h 29min
How Could an Animal-Based Diet Impact Metabolic Health? | Anthony Chaffee, MD | The Metabolic Link Ep.69
In this engaging discussion, Dr. Anthony Chaffee, a medical doctor and nutrition educator, dives deep into the benefits of an animal-based ketogenic diet for metabolic health. He challenges conventional dietary beliefs, highlighting the transformative potential of carnivore diets on chronic diseases and inflammation. Sharing personal anecdotes and clinical insights, Dr. Chaffee discusses the impact of fatty acids and explores the role of diet in autoimmunity. His findings suggest a reexamination of our dietary choices for better health outcomes.

May 28, 2025 • 39min
Bipolar Illness & Metabolic Health: My Story | Matt Baszucki | The Metabolic Link Ep.68
Become a member of The Metabolic Initiative to access exclusive ad-free episodes, 100s of videos on metabolic health and therapy, and earn CMEs here!In this deeply personal and courageous episode of The Metabolic Link, we hear from patient advocate and podcast co-host Matt Baszucki, who shares how he endured—and ultimately overcame—type 1 bipolar disorder through a radical shift in treatment: ketogenic metabolic therapy.After years of hospitalizations, debilitating mood episodes, and failed conventional treatments, Matt found hope through the emerging field of metabolic psychiatry. With the help of his family, including support and clinical guidance from Dr. Christopher Palmer, Matt adopted a therapeutic ketogenic diet in 2021—and the results were extraordinary.Now a thriving project manager in Silicon Valley and co-host of The BipolarCast, Matt is helping drive a movement that challenges the very foundation of how we treat mental illness. This episode is not just about recovery—it's about transformation, resilience, and the future of mental health care.Special thanks to the sponsors of this episode:✅ Genova Connect – Get 15% off any test kit with code METABOLICLINK here✅ iRestore – Get a huge discount when you use the code METABOLICLINK hereWatch Matt Baszucki's YouTube Channel here and Bipolar Cast here. Learn more about the non-profit, Metabolic Mind, here. In every episode of The Metabolic Link, we'll uncover the very latest research on metabolic health and therapy. If you like this episode, please share it, subscribe, follow, and leave us a comment or review on whichever platform you use to tune in!You can find us on all your major podcast players here and full episodes are also up on our Metabolic Health Summit YouTube channel!Find us on social: Instagram Facebook YouTube LinkedIn Please keep in mind: The Metabolic Link does not provide medical or health advice, but rather general information that does not serve as a substitute for a licensed healthcare professional. Never delay in seeking medical advice from an appropriately licensed medical provider for any health condition that you may have.

14 snips
May 6, 2025 • 54min
Hormone Health for Performance and Longevity | Kyle Gillett, MD | The Metabolic Link Ep.67
Dr. Kyle Gillett, a dual board-certified physician in family and obesity medicine, shares his expertise on optimizing hormone levels for better health. He discusses the critical impact of hormones on performance and longevity, emphasizing lifestyle interventions for balance. Gillett dives into essential fatty acids like C15 and their benefits, along with insights on testosterone's role and timing in hormone testing. He also highlights links between hormones and mental health, particularly postpartum depression, showcasing the complex interplay of hormonal regulation.

Apr 23, 2025 • 59min
Journal Club: The Rise of Fatty Liver Disease and its Metabolic Roots | Ep.66
Explore the alarming rise of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), now affecting both adults and children. Discover the new terms defining this condition and its alarming connections to obesity. Learn about dietary strategies, including carbohydrate restriction and the benefits of sustainable protein sources. Dive into research linking low-carb diets to improved liver health, and uncover insights from both human and animal studies on the ketogenic diet's complex role. Practical tips await for enhancing your metabolic health!

Apr 11, 2025 • 60min
The Metabolic Impact of GLP-1s on Obesity | Spencer Nadolsky, DO | Ep.65
Join us for a FREE Live Q&A with Dr. Spencer Nadolsky on April 22nd at 9am PT / 12pm ET! Your first seven days are free, and as a member of The Metabolic Initiative, you’ll gain access to exclusive, ad-free episodes, hundreds of expert-led videos on metabolic health and therapy, CME opportunities, and more here!In this episode of The Metabolic Link, Dr. Dominic D’Agostino sits down with Dr. Spencer Nadolsky—board-certified obesity and lipid specialist, former NCAA heavyweight wrestler, and founder of Vineyard—to explore one of the most hotly debated and often misunderstood tools in modern medicine: GLP-1 receptor agonists.Together, they take a deep dive into how these drugs work, who they’re for, and why they might not always be a magic bullet. Dr. Nadolsky shares clinical insights into the real-world use of semaglutide, tirzepatide, and combination therapies, breaking down everything from appetite regulation and side effects to muscle loss, mood changes, and the potential future of prevention.They also tackle pediatric obesity, long-term use vs. off-ramping, and the critical role of resistance training and nutrition for protecting muscle mass while on these medications.Special thanks to the sponsors of this episode:✅ Genova Connect – Get 15% off any test kit with code METABOLICLINK here✅ Fatty15 – Get 15% off a 90-day Starter Kit here (use code METABOLICLINK)✅ Zocdoc – Find and instantly book a top-rated doctor here✅ Puori – Get 20% off supplements with code METABOLICLINK here🧠 Learn more about Dr. Nadolsky → drspencer.com💥 Don’t forget to RSVP for the live Q&A on April 22!🎟️ membership.metabolicinitiative.com/drspencerIn every episode of The Metabolic Link, we'll uncover the very latest research on metabolic health and therapy. If you like this episode, please share it, subscribe, follow, and leave us a comment or review on whichever platform you use to tune in!You can find us on all your major podcast players here and full episodes are also up on our Metabolic Health Summit YouTube channel!Find us on social: Instagram Facebook YouTube LinkedIn Please keep in mind: The Metabolic Link does not provide medical or health advice, but rather general information that does not serve as a substitute for a licensed healthcare professional. Never delay in seeking medical advice from an appropriately licensed medical provider for any health condition that you may have.

29 snips
Mar 25, 2025 • 1h 7min
Reversing Heart Disease Through Metabolic Health | Philip Ovadia, MD | Ep.64
Dr. Philip Ovadia, a renowned cardiac surgeon and founder of Ovadia Heart Health, dives into the crucial link between metabolic health and heart disease prevention. He challenges the traditional focus on cholesterol, advocating for a greater emphasis on insulin resistance and inflammation. Ovadia emphasizes the power of lifestyle changes and advanced testing, like Coronary Artery Calcium Score scans, to proactively manage heart health. His journey from obesity to wellness fuels a passionate call for a holistic approach, reshaping our understanding of heart disease.

6 snips
Mar 11, 2025 • 1h 5min
The Mitochondrial Link to Mental Illness | Ana Andreazza, PhD | The Metabolic Link Ep.63
Dr. Ana Andreazza, a Professor at the University of Toronto and an expert in mitochondrial function, discusses the revolutionary connections between mitochondria and mental health. She highlights her pioneering research on mitochondrial dysfunction in psychiatric disorders, particularly bipolar disorder. Delving into innovative models like 3D brain organoids, she reveals how mitochondrial health impacts mood and metabolism. The conversation also covers potential treatments, including mitochondrial transplantation and the role of substances like metformin and C15 fatty acids.