

The Dr. Joy Kong Podcast
Dr. Joy Kong
Join the world's leading stem cell expert to reverse aging with cutting-edge longevity medicine and comprehensive lifestyle optimization strategies. Learn more at: drjoykong.com. Explore beyond the popular diet and fitness obsessions, to witness the explosion of a new type of medicine that focuses on root causes and health optimization. Dr. Joy Kong welcomes leading health and medical experts and dispenses crisp and informative episodes to get you up to speed on exciting emerging health practices.Dr. Joy Kong is a triple board-certified physician in the fields of psychiatry, addiction medicine, and anti-aging & regenerative medicine. Growing up in Beijing, China, Dr. Kong was imbued with a more holistic view of the body, and it was such holistic approach that helped save her mother’s life at age 43. She sees the human body as a complex and interconnected web, where every organ impacts every other organ, via countless chemical interactions and energetic exchanges. Dr. Kong brings together her love of science and respect for ancient wisdom in her clinical practice. She incorporates stem cell therapy, peptide therapy, ketamine therapy, and other innovative modalities to address both the body and the mind. She was named Empowered Woman of the Year in 2019 and Stem Cell Doctor of the Decade in 2021. Her candid memoir “Tiger of Beijing,” was named “Book of the Year” in 2020.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 9, 2025 • 7min
Is Your Doctor Misleading You About Stem Cell Treatment?
You might think you’ve had stem cell therapy—but did you really?As someone who works with stem cells every day, I hear this all the time: “Oh yeah, I had stem cell treatment.” But when I dig a little deeper, I often find out they had PRP, exosomes, or amniotic fluid injections—none of which actually contain living stem cells.In this episode, I break down exactly what these therapies are, how they work, and why they’re often mistaken for stem cell therapy. I explain what PRP really is, what exosomes do, and the truth about amniotic fluid treatments. These therapies have value, but it’s time to stop calling them something they’re not.I also share important insights into why true stem cell therapy is different and why it matters for your results. There’s a lot of confusion out there, and this episode will give you clarity on what cells are.So if you’ve ever received a so-called “stem cell” treatment, or you’re considering one, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.🎧 Listen now and learn how to ask the right questions.Key Takeaways:Introduction (00:00)PRP isn’t stem cells—here’s why (00:44)What exosomes do and what they don’t (02:31)Amniotic fluid treatments (04:33)Don’t give up on stem cells, you might not have had them (05:59)Additional Resources: ✨ Learn more about how to live a long and pain-free life: https://joykongmd.com/ ✨ Follow me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stemcelldrjoy/ ✨ Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_joy_kong/ —Dr. Joy Kong is a regenerative medicine and anti-aging expert. Her podcast is part of her mission to reduce suffering and elevate happiness. Join us every week for the latest holistic health insights that will help you live a long and pain-free life.

Sep 2, 2025 • 47min
Follistatin Gene Therapy Results You Won’t Believe | Minicircle’s Jay Spall
Gene therapy is no longer reserved for rare diseases or billionaire tech founders. In this episode, I sit down with Jay Spall, senior executive at MiniCircle, to discuss how gene therapy has entered a new era—one where optimizing your health, building muscle, and extending your lifespan can be done safely, affordably, and effectively.Jay shares how MiniCircle's first breakthrough product, Follistatin, uses plasmid-based delivery to boost muscle growth, reduce fat, and improve metabolic health—all from a single injection. We break down what gene therapy really is, how it compares to CRISPR, how long the effects last, and what to expect in terms of results and safety. Plus, Jay offers a look into the company’s future therapies and his powerful personal journey from chronic illness to radical transformation.We cover the science, the stories, and the surprising benefits you might not expect.Interested in receiving Follistatin gene therapy? Contact our clinic, Chara Health, at 818-356-8232 or email info@chara-health.comKey Takeaways:Introduction (00:00)Jay's personal health journey and introduction to gene therapy (02:24)Minicircle's gene therapy technology and initial success (08:29)Follistatin's benefits and real-world applications (11:14)Clinical study results and broader health benefits (13:52)Muscle gain, fat loss, and strength benefits (19:08)How long does Follistatin's benefit last (22:48)How involved is Follistatin treatment (28:01)Follistatin side effects (33:08)Challenges and future directions of gene therapy (42:24)Additional Resources:If you are interested in receiving Follistatin gene therapy, please contact our clinic Chara Health at 818-356-8232, or email info@chara-health.com.✨ Connect with Jay SpallWebsite: https://minicircle.io/our-therapies/follistatin/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/minicircledna/—✨ Learn more about how to live a long and pain-free life: https://joykongmd.com/ ✨ Follow me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stemcelldrjoy/ ✨ Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_joy_kong/ —Dr. Joy Kong is a regenerative medicine and anti-aging expert. Her podcast is part of her mission to reduce suffering and elevate happiness. Join us every week for the latest holistic health insights that will help you live a long and pain-free life.

Aug 26, 2025 • 45min
What Happens When You Shine Light on Your Gut and Brain | Sarah Turner
In this episode, we explore the fascinating connection between light, your brain, and your gut. Can a single device enhance both of these crucial organs at once? We're diving into the science of how light can be used as a tool for repair and regeneration.I'm joined by Sarah Turner, CEO of CeraThrive, who brings over 20 years of research in biology, neuroscience, and photobiomodulation—the use of light for therapeutic purposes. Sarah explains the science behind red and near-infrared light, and how it can affect your mitochondria, brain function, and even the structure of water in your body.Sarah also reveals the surprising link between light, gut bacteria, and brain health. She shows us how restoring microbial balance in your gut can improve everything from digestion to your neurological health.Join us as Sarah breaks it all down and introduces CeraThrive, a user-friendly photobiomodulation device designed to enhance these two vital organs for your overall well-being.👉 Listen now to discover the science of light and its potential to transform your health.Key Takeaways:Introduction (00:00)Sarah Turner's background in light therapy (01:14)How light changes water structure and energy (02:54)Mitochondria and DNA communication (08:08)Light’s influence on gut bacteria (12:26)Parkinson’s and microbiome improvements (16:55)Why target both the brain and the gut (19:41)Brainwave entrainment via light frequencies (25:24)Light therapy as regenerative medicine (31:29)Sunlight as nature’s red light therapy (41:32)Additional Resources: To purchase CeraThrive photobiomodulation device, please go to https://www.cerathrive.com/DrJoy and use the coupon code DRJOY to get 10% off your purchase.✨ Connect with Sarah TurnerWebsite: https://www.cerathrive.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cerathrive/Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/CERASystem—✨ Learn more about how to live a long and pain-free life: https://joykongmd.com/ ✨ Follow me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stemcelldrjoy/ ✨ Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_joy_kong/ —Dr. Joy Kong is a regenerative medicine and anti-aging expert. Her podcast is part of her mission to reduce suffering and elevate happiness. Join us every week for the latest holistic health insights that will help you live a long and pain-free life.

Aug 19, 2025 • 1h 12min
How To Heal The Body Without Medication | Dr. Leisa Grgula
Dr. Leisa Grgula is a Chiropractic Physician with nearly three decades of experience helping patients heal without medication. She earned her Doctor of Chiropractic degree from the National University of Health Sciences along with a Bachelor of Science in Human Biology. Dr. Grgula is the owner of Accurate Care Medical Wellness Center, an integrative clinic in Scottsdale, Arizona, dedicated to providing proven alternatives to drugs and surgery. There, she leads a team of physicians specializing in regenerative therapies and personalized care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Beyond her clinical practice, Dr. Grgula is also a seasoned TV host and health columnist, educating the public on innovative approaches to wellness.In this episode, Dr. Grgula shares her own remarkable healing journey after a severe shoulder injury, and how regenerative medicine—including stem cells, exosomes, PRP, and ozone—helped her avoid a full shoulder replacement and return to full activity. She explains the science and philosophy behind regenerative therapies, the role of patient mindset in recovery, and why integrating alternative and conventional medicine can lead to the best outcomes. Listeners will also hear inspiring patient stories, from athletes and seniors to teenagers, who regained their health and vitality without invasive surgeries.Additional Resources:Check out ARRC LED: https://arrcled.com/Get a $2,500 discount if you mentioned you were referred by Dr. Joy!Visit My Clinic: Chara Health🌐 https://chara-health.com📍 9568 Topanga Canyon Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 91311📲 Call (818) 356-8232 or email info@chara-health.com to make an appointment or go to https://www.joykongmd.com and fill out a contact form.Visit My Website: https://www.joykongmd.comGet My Famous Skin Cream CharaOmni: https://www.charaomni.com/ https://www.instagram.com/charaomni/For the highest quality hydrogen water machine on the market we discussed on the show, please go to:https://shop.holyhydrogen.com/DRJOY and use coupon code DRJOY to get $100 off your purchase.Follow on all social media and Google:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_joy_kong/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stemcelldrjoy/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joy-kong-md-4b8627123Linktree: https://linktr.ee/dr_joy_kongFind Us: https://g.page/r/Cbu0hyTzHokCEAE

Aug 12, 2025 • 1h 1min
The Surprising Benefits of Red Light Therapy! | Mike McIntyre
Mike McIntyre is the Founder and CEO of ARRC LED, a global leader in whole-body photobiomodulation, better known as red light therapy. Since 2007, he has been developing cutting-edge systems trusted by the U.S. Military, world leaders, professional sports teams like the Philadelphia Eagles and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and top Division 1 athletic programs. With a background in marketing research, biochemistry, and elite athletics, Mike combines science, performance, and entrepreneurship with a passion for personal and spiritual growth.In this episode, Mike explains what red light therapy is, how it works at the cellular level, and why it’s becoming a top wellness tool worldwide. He shares the science behind photobiomodulation, the difference between consumer and professional systems, and how light can influence recovery, performance, and longevity. Listeners will also hear about its groundbreaking applications for athletes, chronic pain sufferers, and anyone seeking better health.Additional Resources:Check out ARRC LED: https://arrcled.com/Get a $2,500 discount if you mentioned you were referred by Dr. Joy!Visit My Clinic: Chara Health🌐 https://chara-health.com📍 9568 Topanga Canyon Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 91311📲 Call (818) 356-8232 or email info@chara-health.com to make an appointment or go to https://www.joykongmd.com and fill out a contact form.Visit My Website: https://www.joykongmd.comGet My Famous Skin Cream CharaOmni: https://www.charaomni.com/ https://www.instagram.com/charaomni/For the highest quality hydrogen water machine on the market we discussed on the show, please go to:https://shop.holyhydrogen.com/DRJOY and use coupon code DRJOY to get $100 off your purchase.Follow on all social media and Google:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_joy_kong/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stemcelldrjoy/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joy-kong-md-4b8627123Linktree: https://linktr.ee/dr_joy_kongFind Us: https://g.page/r/Cbu0hyTzHokCEAE

Aug 5, 2025 • 16min
5 Signs You Need Stem Cell Therapy
Is your body sending you signals that it's time for regeneration? In this solo episode, Dr. Joy Kong reveals the 5 telltale signs you may need stem cell therapy: chronic aches and pains, persistent swelling, fatigue, hair loss, and brain fog. Learn how stem cells reduce inflammation, improve blood flow, repair mitochondria, and even regenerate neurons—unlocking your body’s natural healing potential. Packed with real patient stories and clinical insights, this episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking true cellular rejuvenation.Additional Resources:Visit My Clinic: Chara Health🌐 https://chara-health.com📍 9568 Topanga Canyon Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 91311📲 Call (818) 356-8232 or email info@chara-health.com to make an appointment or go to https://www.joykongmd.com and fill out a contact form.Visit My Website: https://www.joykongmd.comGet My Famous Skin Cream CharaOmni: https://www.charaomni.com/ https://www.instagram.com/charaomni/For the highest quality hydrogen water machine on the market we discussed on the show, please go to:https://shop.holyhydrogen.com/DRJOY and use coupon code DRJOY to get $100 off your purchase.Follow on all social media and Google:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_joy_kong/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stemcelldrjoy/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joy-kong-md-4b8627123Linktree: https://linktr.ee/dr_joy_kongFind Us: https://g.page/r/Cbu0hyTzHokCEAE

Jul 29, 2025 • 1h 43min
Hydrogen Water: The Body Healing Secret Nobody Talks About
Greg also known as “The Hydrogen Man,” spent over two decades working in the medical field before a profound near-death experience led him to radically rethink everything he knew about healing. After facing a devastating array of health challenges—including autoimmune disorders, chronic pain, systemic inflammation, heart disease, and a collapsed immune system—Greg found no relief through conventional medicine, biohacking, or even alternative therapies. His turning point came after a deep spiritual awakening, which led him to explore the healing potential of molecular hydrogen. Today, Greg is a leading voice in hydrogen health, having trained with top engineers in Japan and pioneered cutting-edge protocols for healing through ultra-pure hydrogen water and gas.Greg shares how molecular hydrogen transformed his health and the lives of countless others—from dementia patients to those suffering from autoimmune disorders, gut issues, and even heart disease. He dives into the science behind hydrogen as a selective antioxidant, the importance of water purity, and why production method matters more than most people realize. With touching personal stories and deep medical insight, Greg explains how hydrogen therapy could be one of the most overlooked breakthroughs in modern wellness—and why it just might be the missing piece in both physical and emotional healing.For the highest quality hydrogen water machine on the market, please go to:https://shop.holyhydrogen.com/DRJOY and use coupon code DRJOY to get $100 off your purchase.More on Greg:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UPRISING144K/videos

Jul 22, 2025 • 1h 9min
The Surprising Way Your Tongue Affects Your Entire Body | Ryan Today
What if one of the most overlooked parts of your body, your tongue, was actually the key to better health, posture, and emotional balance?In this episode, I sit down with Ryan Today, a somatic strategist and founder of Tongue Fitness, to explore why the tongue is way more than just a muscle for eating and speaking. Ryan breaks down how tongue posture affects everything from the way we breathe to how we age, how we connect with others, and even how our nervous system heals.We talk about how the tongue influences fascia (your body’s connective tissue), the vagus nerve, and your ability to self-regulate under stress. Ryan also shares the biggest myths people have about the tongue, the science behind its connection to full-body health, and a simple daily practice that can create massive change in just 30 days.If you’re interested in somatic healing, biohacking, or just want to breathe better and feel more grounded, this conversation will completely shift how you think about your body.More on Ryan Today:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/guidedmeditations/Website: https://linktr.ee/RyanTodayAdditional Resources:Visit My Clinic: Chara Health🌐 https://chara-health.com📍 9568 Topanga Canyon Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 91311📲 Call (818) 356-8232 or email info@chara-health.com to make an appointment or go to https://www.joykongmd.com and fill out a contact form.Visit My Website: https://www.joykongmd.comGet My Famous Skin Cream CharaOmni: https://www.charaomni.com/ https://www.instagram.com/charaomni/Follow on all social media and Google:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_joy_kong/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stemcelldrjoy/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joy-kong-md-4b8627123Linktree: https://linktr.ee/dr_joy_kongFind Us: https://g.page/r/Cbu0hyTzHokCEAE

Jul 15, 2025 • 1h 4min
How This Doctor Helped Autistic Kids With Stem Cell Therapy (Real Results)
Dr. Courtney Gillenwater is a US Navy veteran, global humanitarian, and pediatric specialist at Chara Health, Dr. Joy Kong’s premier regenerative medicine clinic. With a background in traditional pediatrics and trauma medicine, Dr. Gillenwater transitioned into regenerative therapies after experiencing a rapid personal recovery using stem cells and exosomes. Now, she focuses on combining cutting-edge cellular treatments with comprehensive, integrative care to support children with autism, veterans with chronic injuries, and patients with complex inflammatory conditions.In this powerful episode, Dr. Joy Kong interviews Dr. Gillenwater about her unique path into regenerative medicine and the life-changing results she sees daily at Chara Health. From helping nonverbal children gain communication skills to aiding veterans with lung damage and patients on transplant lists, Dr. Gillenwater shares compelling case studies and clinical outcomes. The episode dives into how personalized stem cell protocols, micronutrient testing, and gut-brain optimization are transforming outcomes for children with autism spectrum disorders and adults facing serious health challenges.Visit My Clinic: Chara Health🌐 https://chara-health.com📍 9568 Topanga Canyon Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 91311📲 Call (818) 356-8232 or email info@chara-health.com to make an appointment or go to https://www.joykongmd.com and fill out a contact form.Visit My Website: https://www.joykongmd.comGet My Famous Skin Cream CharaOmni: https://www.charaomni.com/ https://www.instagram.com/charaomni/For the highest quality hydrogen water machine on the market we discussed on the show, please go to:https://shop.holyhydrogen.com/DRJOY and use coupon code DRJOY to get $100 off your purchase.Follow on all social media and Google:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_joy_kong/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stemcelldrjoy/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joy-kong-md-4b8627123Linktree: https://linktr.ee/dr_joy_kongFind Us: https://g.page/r/Cbu0hyTzHokCEAE ____________________ ABOUT DR. JOY KONG: ____________________ Joy Kong, M.D. is a UCLA-trained, triple board-certified physician (American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology, American Board of Addiction Medicine, American Board of Anti-Aging & Regenerative Medicine). Of her many accomplishments, the following are highlights: Founder/CEO of Chara Health USA (formerly known as Uplyft Longevity Center) in Los Angeles, California, where she specializes in stem cell therapy, ketamine therapy, as well as a wide range of therapeutic modalities to enhance overall health and combat diseases in a holistic approach, esp. by enhancing the body’s innate regenerative potentials. Founder/President of American Academy of Integrative Cell Therapy (https://www.AAICT.org), where she provides training to physicians on the science, clinical evidence and safe protocols in Stem Cell Therapy. Published author in scientific journals in regenerative medicine research and developer of unique regenerative medicine products and protocols. Founder/CEO of Chara Biologics, a company dedicated to providing cutting-edge regenerative medicine products in the US and to the global market. Dr. Kong was recognized for her contribution to the field of regenerative medicine and awarded the “Top Doctor of the Year in Stem Cell Therapy” and “Empowered Woman of the Year” in 2019, as well as “Stem Cell Doctor of the Decade” in 2021 by the prestigious IAOTP (International Association of Top Professionals). Dr. Kong’s memoir Tiger of Beijing has garnered tremendous interest, and was named “2020 Book of the Year” from IAOTP and showcased at Time Square. Our content is for informational purposes only and should not be treated as medical or health advice. Please consult with your doctor /healthcare provider if you have any questions about your medical condition.______________________#drjoykong #stemcelltherapy #antiaging

Jul 8, 2025 • 42min
The #1 Mistake To Avoid When Treating Chronic Pain | Dr. Mike Jamshidi
In this episode of The Dr. Joy Kong Podcast, Dr. Joy speaks with Dr. Mike Jamshidi, a naturopathic doctor at Chara Health, about natural, hands-on approaches to pain relief beyond pills and surgery. Dr. Mike shares his journey from healing his own chronic health issues to helping patients address root causes of pain through bodywork, acupuncture, nutrition, and lifestyle changes.They also discuss advanced regenerative treatments like stem cells and exosomes, and Dr. Mike shares powerful stories of patients finding relief from severe conditions. This conversation highlights the power of working with the body’s innate healing abilities for deeper, long-lasting recovery.--Additional Resources:Visit My Clinic: Chara Health🌐 https://chara-health.com📍 9568 Topanga Canyon Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 91311📲 Call (818) 356-8232 or email info@chara-health.com to make an appointment or go to https://www.joykongmd.com and fill out a contact form.Visit My Website: https://www.joykongmd.comGet My Famous Skin Cream CharaOmni: https://www.charaomni.com/ https://www.instagram.com/charaomni/Follow on all social media and Google:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_joy_kong/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stemcelldrjoy/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joy-kong-md-4b8627123Linktree: https://linktr.ee/dr_joy_kongFind Us: https://g.page/r/Cbu0hyTzHokCEAE ____________________ ABOUT DR. JOY KONG: ____________________ Joy Kong, M.D. is a UCLA-trained, triple board-certified physician (American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology, American Board of Addiction Medicine, American Board of Anti-Aging & Regenerative Medicine). Of her many accomplishments, the following are highlights: Founder/CEO of Chara Health USA (formerly known as Uplyft Longevity Center) in Los Angeles, California, where she specializes in stem cell therapy, ketamine therapy, as well as a wide range of therapeutic modalities to enhance overall health and combat diseases in a holistic approach, esp. by enhancing the body’s innate regenerative potentials. Founder/President of American Academy of Integrative Cell Therapy (https://www.AAICT.org), where she provides training to physicians on the science, clinical evidence and safe protocols in Stem Cell Therapy. Published author in scientific journals in regenerative medicine research and developer of unique regenerative medicine products and protocols. Founder/CEO of Chara Biologics, a company dedicated to providing cutting-edge regenerative medicine products in the US and to the global market. Dr. Kong was recognized for her contribution to the field of regenerative medicine and awarded the “Top Doctor of the Year in Stem Cell Therapy” and “Empowered Woman of the Year” in 2019, as well as “Stem Cell Doctor of the Decade” in 2021 by the prestigious IAOTP (International Association of Top Professionals). Dr. Kong’s memoir Tiger of Beijing has garnered tremendous interest, and was named “2020 Book of the Year” from IAOTP and showcased at Time Square. Our content is for informational purposes only and should not be treated as medical or health advice. Please consult with your doctor /healthcare provider if you have any questions about your medical condition.______________________#drjoykong #stemcelltherapy #antiaging