The Real Health Podcast

“I could do everything right and still die, or do everything wrong and still live. Ultimately, my life was in God’s hands.” —Ivelisse PageWhat does it look like to face a stage IV cancer diagnosis, lean into faith, and turn survival into service for thousands of others?In this conversation, Dr. Ron Hunninghake is joined by Ivelisse Page, Executive Director and Co-Founder of Believe Big, to share her extraordinary journey of healing and hope. From mistletoe therapy and integrative care to the spiritual and emotional terrains of health, Ivelisse reveals how her diagnosis became the catalyst for a movement to reimagine cancer care.This conversation is part of the Cancer Care Reimagined Speaker Series, leading up to Riordan Clinic’s Cancer Care Reimagined Conference this November.Highlights include:→ How Ivelisse’s personal cancer story led to the creation of Believe Big→ Why integrative therapies like mistletoe can improve survival and quality of life→ The critical role of mindset, faith, and emotional healing in recovery→ A vision for the Believe Big Institute of Health and the future of integrative oncologyMeet Ivelisse PageIvelisse Page is the Executive Director and Co-Founder of Believe Big, a nonprofit dedicated to helping patients face, fight, and overcome cancer. A stage IV colon cancer survivor, Ivelisse has become a leading voice in patient advocacy, integrative oncology education, and mistletoe research. Through her work with Johns Hopkins University and the Believe Big community, she is helping thousands navigate cancer with strength, faith, and innovative care.This series is made possible by Empower, the Platinum Sponsor of Cancer Care Reimagined Conference. As a national leader in compounding pharmacy and 503B outsourcing, Empower serves providers and patients across all 50 states with safe, affordable, and personalized medications. Guided by the belief that behind every order is a person in need, they bring compassion and innovation to everything they do. Learn more at empowerpharmacy.com.Discover Believe Big’s mission and resourcesLearn about the mistletoe clinical trials with Johns HopkinsEpisode Links & ResourcesRegister for the Cancer Care Reimagined ConferenceSchedule your Check Your Health lab testing (Sept 15–26)Learn more about Empower PharmacyExplore the Riordan ClinicListen to more episodes of the Real Health PodcastConnect with the Real Health Podcast and Riordan Clinic✉️ Join our newsletter🔗 Learn more about the Riordan Clinic📱 Follow us on Instagram📘 Find us on Facebook💼 Connect with us on LinkedIn🎧 Subscribe to the podcastEpisode Chapters00:00 Welcome + introduction to the speaker series01:44 Introducing Ivelisse Page03:26 Diagnosis and family history of colon cancer05:30 Discovering mistletoe therapy and beginning integrative care09:35 Survival outcomes with mistletoe and chemotherapy12:05 Faith, fear, and the mental battle of healing16:34 Emotional healing and past traumas in cancer recovery20:22 The mission and programs of Believe Big24:00 Bridging conventional and complementary medicine25:40 Looking ahead: the Believe Big Institute of Health26:10 Closing reflections and award recognitionTopics we explore in this episode include:cancer care reimagined, integrative oncology, mistletoe therapy, Believe Big, stage IV cancer survivor, cancer mindset and resilience, faith and healing, emotional healing in cancer, functional medicine cancer treatment, Johns Hopkins mistletoe clinical trial, holistic cancer care, cancer prevention strategies, patient advocacy in oncology, terrain-based medicine, spiritual dimensions of healingDisclaimerThe information contained on the Real Health Podcast and the resources mentioned are for educational purposes only. They are not intended as and shall not be understood or construed as medical or health advice. The information contained on this podcast is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. Information provided by hosts and guests on the Real Health Podcast or the use of any products or services mentioned does not create a practitioner-patient relationship between you and any persons affiliated with this podcast.

"I personally do not perceive cancer as an enemy…when we wage war on it, we wage war on ourselves." —Dr. Nasha WintersWhat if cancer isn’t the enemy but a profound messenger about the state of our inner and outer terrain? In this conversation, Dr. Ron Hunninghake is joined by Dr. Nasha Winters—a naturopathic oncologist, author, and Kansas native—to explore a radical shift in understanding, treating, and living with cancer.This conversation is part of the Cancer Care Reimagined Speaker Series, leading up to Riordan Clinic’s Cancer Care Reimagined Conference this November.Highlights include:→ Why seeing cancer as a wound or messenger changes the path of healing→ The tangible and intangible factors that drive long-term remission→ How metabolic oncology and integrative care open new possibilities for treatmentDr. Nasha Winters shares her own survival story, her pioneering work in metabolic oncology, and how she’s training clinicians, advocates, and patients worldwide to approach cancer differently.Meet Nasha Winters, ND, FABNONasha Winters, ND, FABNO, is a naturopathic oncologist, global educator, and author of “The Metabolic Approach to Cancer” and “Mistletoe and the Emerging Future of Integrative Oncology.” She is the CEO of Dr. Nasha, Inc. and Co-Founder of Terrain Holding Company, leading efforts to advance metabolic oncology research, practitioner training, and innovative cancer care models. Dr. Winters also hosts the “Metabolic Matters Podcast” and continues to shape the future of integrative oncology through education, research, and patient advocacy.This series is made possible by Empower, the Platinum Sponsor of Cancer Care Reimagined Conference. As a national leader in compounding pharmacy and 503B outsourcing, Empower serves providers and patients across all 50 states with safe, affordable, and personalized medications. Guided by the belief that behind every order is a person in need, they bring compassion and innovation to everything they do. Learn more at https://empowerpharmacy.com.Episode Links & ResourcesRegister for the Cancer Care Reimagined ConferenceSchedule your Check Your Health lab testing (Sept 15–26)Learn more about Empower PharmacyExplore the Riordan ClinicListen to more episodes of the Real Health PodcastEpisode Chapters00:00 Welcome + introduction to the speaker series01:44 Introducing Dr. Nasha Winters03:05 Rethinking cancer as a messenger, not an enemy06:27 Tangible vs intangible factors in remission10:24 Nasha’s early connection to Riordan Clinic16:29 Fasting, ascites, and her survival story19:56 The rise of metabolic oncology22:15 Exploring fungal and microbial drivers of cancer24:00 Trauma, PTSD, and cancer triggers27:49 Training clinicians, advocates, and allied health professionals31:57 The importance of community and connectivity in healing34:21 Shame, childhood trauma, and cancer risk37:47 Bridging art and science in medicine39:45 Looking ahead to the conference and galaConnect with the Real Health Podcast and Riordan ClinicJoin our newsletter🔗 Learn more about the Riordan Clinic📱 Follow us on Instagram📘 Find us on Facebook💼 Connect with us on LinkedIn🎧 Subscribe to the podcastTopics we explore in this episode include:cancer care reimagined, metabolic oncology, integrative oncology, cancer as messenger, terrain-based medicine, patient advocacy in cancer care, functional medicine cancer treatment, cancer and trauma healingDisclaimerThe information contained on the Real Health Podcast and the resources mentioned are for educational purposes only. They are not intended as and shall not be understood or construed as medical or health advice. The information contained on this podcast is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. Information provided by hosts and guests on the Real Health Podcast or the use of any products or services mentioned does not create a practitioner-patient relationship between you and any persons affiliated with this podcast.

Are you tired of being defined by a diagnosis? In this powerful episode of The Real Health Podcast, Ron Hunninghake, MD welcomes Mark Sherwood, ND, to explore why symptom-focused care is failing patients—and what true healing really looks like.Mark Sherwood, ND shares how he and his wife, Michele Sherwood, DO, guide patients through a whole-person, functional medicine approach rooted in compassion, lifestyle transformation, and deep listening. From gut health to PTSD, chronic illness to emotional trauma—this conversation dives into what it actually takes to reclaim your health.Learn more about the hosts:•Dr. Ron Hunninghake, MDhttps://riordanclinic.org/staff/ron-hunninghake-md/• Mark Sherwood, ND & Michele L. Neil-Sherwood, DO: https://sherwood.tvRead the transcript:https://realhealthpodcast.orgLearn more about Riordan Clinic:https://riordanclinic.org/Interested in becoming a Patient:https://riordanclinic.org/request-an-appointment/*Disclaimer*The information contained on The Real Health Podcast and the resources mentioned are for educational purposes only. They are not intended as, and shall not be understood or construed as medical or health advice. The information contained on this podcast is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. Information provided by hosts and guests on The Real Health Podcast or the use of any products or services mentioned does not create a practitioner-patient relationship between you and any person affiliated with this podcast.

Jenn Nolan, an oncology nutrition consultant with expertise in integrative cancer care, joins Dr. Kirsten West to share valuable insights on nutrition's role in cancer management. They discuss essential dietary strategies, emphasizing fiber, healthy fats, and cautioning against high sugar in juices. The conversation dives into stress management, personalized nutrition, and the importance of community support. They also tackle healthier smoothie options, the impact of gluten and dairy on cancer prevention, and the nuances of gluten-free diets.

In this engaging discussion, oncology nutrition consultant Jenn Nolan shares her expertise in integrative cancer care. She emphasizes the crucial role of nutrition and emotional support during treatment. The conversation dives into the seed oil debate, exploring healthier dietary fats and implications for cancer management. Nolan also highlights the nutritional benefits of almonds and lycopene for prostate cancer, and the importance of personalized treatment strategies. Plus, they cover managing iron levels and understanding tumor markers for comprehensive cancer care.

In this episode of The Real Health Podcast, Dr. Ron Hunninghake sits down with Mark Lintern, multi-award-winning author of "The 'Cell Suppression Theory' of cancer". In 2014, he embarked on an extraordinary quest to gain a profound understanding of cancer, culminating in the creation of a new groundbreaking theory. With cancer rates on the rise, this episode is a must-watch!Learn more about our guest, Mark Lintern:•https://www.cellsuppression.com/about-zxIHPeLearn more about the hosts:Dr. Ron Hunninghake, MD:https://riordanclinic.org/staff/ron-hunninghake-md/Interested in becoming a Patient:https://riordanclinic.org/request-an-appointment/Read the transcript:https://realhealthpodcast.orgLearn more about Riordan Clinic:https://riordanclinic.org/Thanks to This Episode's SponsorRiordan Clinic Nutrient Store:https://store.riordanclinic.org/Disclaimer: The information contained on the Real Health Podcast and the resources mentioned are for educational purposes only. They're not intended as and shall not be understood or construed as medical or health advice. The information contained on this podcast is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. Information provided by hosts and guests on the Real Health Podcast or the use of any products or services mentioned does not create a practitioner-patient relationship between you and any persons affiliated with this podcast.#IntegrativeOncology #CancerCare #RealHealth #RiordanClinic

In this episode of The Real Health Podcast, Dr. Ron Hunninghake and Dr. Kirsten West sit down with Dr. Mark Hancock to explore one of integrative oncology’s most intriguing therapies: Mistletoe. Discover how this plant-based treatment—used in Europe for over 100 years—is gaining traction in the U.S. Dr. Hancock shares the science, real patient outcomes, and how mistletoe is safely used alongside conventional therapies. If you're seeking holistic options in cancer treatment, this episode is a must-watch!Learn more about our guest, Dr. Mark Hancock:•https://humanizingmedicine.com/Learn more about the hosts:Dr. Ron Hunninghake, MD: https://riordanclinic.org/staff/ron-hunninghake-md/Dr. Kirsten West, ND, LAc, FABNO:•https://riordanclinic.org/staff/kirsten-west-nd-lac-fabno/Interested in becoming a Patient:https://riordanclinic.org/request-an-appointment/Read the transcript:https://realhealthpodcast.orgLearn more about Riordan Clinic:https://riordanclinic.org/Thanks to This Episode's SponsorRiordan Clinic Nutrient Store: https://store.riordanclinic.org/Disclaimer: The information contained on the Real Health Podcast and the resources mentioned are for educational purposes only. They're not intended as and shall not be understood or construed as medical or health advice. The information contained on this podcast is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. Information provided by hosts and guests on the Real Health Podcast or the use of any products or services mentioned does not create a practitioner-patient relationship between you and any persons affiliated with this podcast.#MistletoeTherapy #IntegrativeOncology #CancerCare #RealHealth

What if the treatment they said was impossible… actually worked? In this inspiring episode of The Real Health Podcast, Dr. Ron Hunninghake, MD sits down with Blake Benton to discuss his family’s incredible journey with stem cell therapy for Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Learn how Coming Together for a Cure, a nonprofit founded by the Benton family, is now helping hundreds of families access life-changing treatments!Learn more about our guest, Blake Benton:•Coming Together for a Cure: https://www.ctfac.org/•Watch The Sunshine Dreamer Documentary: https://www.ctfac.org/the-sunshine-dreamer-documentaryLearn more about the hosts:Dr. Ron Hunninghake, MD: https://riordanclinic.org/staff/ron-hunninghake-md/Interested in becoming a Patient:https://riordanclinic.org/request-an-appointment/Read the transcript:https://realhealthpodcast.orgLearn more about Riordan Clinic:https://riordanclinic.org/Thanks to This Episode's SponsorRiordan Clinic Nutrient Store: https://store.riordanclinic.org/Disclaimer: The information contained on the Real Health Podcast and the resources mentioned are for educational purposes only. They're not intended as and shall not be understood or construed as medical or health advice. The information contained on this podcast is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. Information provided by hosts and guests on the Real Health Podcast or the use of any products or services mentioned does not create a practitioner-patient relationship between you and any persons affiliated with this podcast.

In this episode of The Real Health Podcast, Dr. Ron Hunninghake, MD welcomes Dr. Dan Rubin, ND, FABNO, a pioneer in naturopathic oncology and co-founder of the American Board of Naturopathic Oncology. Together, they dive into the importance of integrative oncology, the role of dendritic cell therapy, and how blending conventional and naturopathic approaches can empower cancer patients. Dr. Rubin shares insights into the "resilience model" of cancer care, immune system optimization, and the critical role of personalized medicine in improving outcomes and quality of life.Learn more about the hosts:Dr. Dan Rubin, ND FABNO: https://listenandcare.com/dan-rubin-nd-fabno/Dr. Ron Hunninghake, MD: https://riordanclinic.org/staff/ron-hunninghake-md/Read the transcript:https://realhealthpodcast.org/2025/01/revolutionizing-cancer-care/Learn more about Riordan Clinic:https://riordanclinic.org/Interested in becoming a Patient:https://riordanclinic.org/request-an-appointment/Thanks to This Episode's SponsorRiordan Clinic Nutrient Store: https://store.riordanclinic.org/Disclaimer: The information contained on the Real Health Podcast and the resources mentioned are for educational purposes only. They're not intended as and shall not be understood or construed as medical or health advice. The information contained on this podcast is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. Information provided by hosts and guests on the Real Health Podcast or the use of any products or services mentioned does not create a practitioner-patient relationship between you and any persons affiliated with this podcast.

In this episode of the Real Health Podcast, Chief Medical Officer Dr. Ron Hunninghake, MD, talks to Dr. Michelle Niesley, ND, LAc, FABNO about some of the new research initiatives and findings here at Riordan Clinic.Learn more about the hosts:Dr. Michelle Niesley, ND, MS, FABNO: https://riordanclinic.org/staff/michelle-niesley-nd-lac-fabno/Dr. Ron Hunninghake, MD: https://riordanclinic.org/staff/ron-hunninghake-md/Read the transcript:https://realhealthpodcast.orgLearn more about Riordan Clinic:https://riordanclinic.org/Interested in becoming a Patient:https://riordanclinic.org/request-an-appointment/Thanks to This Episode's SponsorRiordan Clinic Nutrient Store: https://store.riordanclinic.org/Disclaimer: The information contained on the Real Health Podcast and the resources mentioned are for educational purposes only. They're not intended as and shall not be understood or construed as medical or health advice. The information contained on this podcast is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. Information provided by hosts and guests on the Real Health Podcast or the use of any products or services mentioned does not create a practitioner-patient relationship between you and any persons affiliated with this podcast.