
Tick Boot Camp
The goal of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast is to help people liberate themselves and others from suffering caused by Lyme disease through validation, community building, belief that healing is possible, and modeling success. Listen to our Tick Boot Camp podcast using all major podcast streaming services such as Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube Music. Our podcast is also integrated with smart home devices, such as Amazon Alexa and Apple TV. Ask your device to "play the Tick Boot Camp Podcast!"
Latest episodes

Mar 23, 2025 • 17min
Episode 469: LIVE from ILADS: Jennifer Barrett – Lyme Disease Advocacy & Legal Reform
Jennifer Barrett, a Lyme disease patient-turned-advocate and Doctor of Law (JD), joins us live from the ILADS Conference to share her powerful journey. Diagnosed at just 10 years old, Jennifer faced significant challenges in accessing proper treatment and navigating financial and insurance hurdles. Now, she’s using her legal expertise to push for policy changes and improved insurance coverage for Lyme patients.
Key Takeaways:
Jennifer’s early Lyme disease diagnosis and struggles navigating the healthcare system in Connecticut, the birthplace of Lyme disease.
The financial and insurance-related barriers that make long-term treatment difficult for Lyme patients.
How her personal experience inspired her to earn a law degree and advocate for legislative change.
Insights from her published law review article, Lyme: Why Congress Must Enact Medical Insurance Coverage for Lyme Disease Patients Now.
Her ongoing efforts to work with state and federal representatives to push for meaningful policy changes.
This episode sheds light on the patient experience and the urgent need for legal and insurance reforms in Lyme disease care. Jennifer’s advocacy is a testament to the power of patient-driven change in the fight for better treatment and coverage.
Resources & Links:
🔗 Follow the latest ILADS updates at ILADS.org
🔗 Learn more about Jennifer Barrett: Facebook
🔗 Stay connected with Tick Boot Camp: Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | TikTok | Twitter (X)

Mar 22, 2025 • 1h 43min
Episode 468: Breaking the Cycle of Chronic Lyme - an interview with Doctor Chris Turnpaugh
In this episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, Dr. Chris Turnpaugh of Turnpaugh Health shares his holistic approach to treating chronic Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses. He discusses the importance of addressing the whole body, not just killing the pathogen, and the role of neuroplasticity in recovery. Key topics include:
Overview of Turnpaugh Health's multidisciplinary practice
Dr. Turnpaugh's educational journey from chiropractic to functional medicine
The inside-out approach of chiropractic and its impact on the nervous system
Neuroplasticity and its influence on immune function and mood disorders
Natural antimicrobials like Crypto Lepus and Cat's Claw
Biofilm disruptors such as medical-grade stevia and NAC
Supplements for sleep, mood, and mitochondrial support
Dr. Turnpaugh provides valuable insights and practical recommendations for chronic Lyme patients seeking a comprehensive path to healing.
Key Takeaways:
Multidisciplinary approach addressing physical, emotional, and mental aspects of chronic illness
Importance of supporting the body's physiology, not just killing pathogens
Role of neuroplasticity in chronic Lyme and strategies for retraining the nervous system
Natural antimicrobials and biofilm disruptors as part of a holistic treatment plan
Supplements for sleep, mood, and mitochondrial health
About Dr. Chris Turnpaugh:
Dr. Chris Turnpaugh is the founder and President of Turnpaugh Health & Wellness Center, leading a team dedicated to patient-focused, integrative care. With post-doctorate certification in functional neurology and training from the Carrick Institute, the Institute for Functional Medicine, and A4M, he specializes in autoimmune diseases, thyroid disorders, neurological conditions, and anti-aging medicine.
Beyond his clinical practice, Dr. Turnpaugh is an educator, teaching healthcare providers nationwide about functional medicine principles. He is an active member of the International Lyme Disease Association, PCA, A4M, IFM, and the International Association for Functional Neurology.
When he’s not treating patients or educating practitioners, Dr. Turnpaugh enjoys hiking, scuba diving, and cheering on his favorite college football team.
Products & Resources Mentioned Available on Dr. Turnpaugh's Website:
Liposomal Cryptolepis: Broad-spectrum natural antimicrobial effective against Lyme, Bartonella, and other tick-borne infections
Cats Claw Elite: Natural antimicrobial with anti-parasitic properties
As Soon As you are Bit (ASAB - ASAB 2): ASAB is a potent herbal formulation meticulously crafted to combat tick-borne infections and ASAB 2 coverage extends to address persister cells that may emerge due to antibiotic usage and is effective against parasites.
Mellow (Serenity DHH-B Complex): Sleep aid containing Dihydrohonokiol-B from Magnolia Bark to calm the nervous system
Extinguisher: Anti-inflammatory blend with Turmeric, Resveratrol, Perilla Seed Extract, and Quercetin
MitoSpark: Supports mitochondrial health and function
Bitter X: Herbal bitters to support detoxification and bile flow for things like microplastics
NAC+: Glutathione precursor to support detoxification and antioxidant status
Turmero XL: Highly bioavailable turmeric extract for reducing inflammation
Rejuvenate: Supports mast cell function and dampens inflammatory responses
immunoREBOOT: Helps retrain the immune system and reduce inappropriate reactions
Follow & Subscribe: If you enjoyed this episode of our Tick Boot Camp Podcast, be sure to subscribe and leave a review! Connect with us on social media for more expert interviews and insights into functional medicine and chronic illness recovery.

Mar 22, 2025 • 21min
Episode 467: LIVE from ILADS: Megan Bradshaw - Advocating for Tick-Borne Disease Patients
Key Points:
Megan Bradshaw shares her personal recovery journey and how it led her to pursue a master's in public health at UNC Chapel Hill.
She discusses her new role as Government Relations Manager for the Center for Lyme Action, a 501(c)(4) nonprofit dedicated to increasing federal funding for tick-borne disease research and policy.
The Center for Lyme Action organizes "fly-in" events, where patients and advocates virtually meet with members of Congress to share their stories and push for increased Lyme disease funding.
Megan highlights the power of grassroots advocacy, explaining how patient voices influence legislative change despite bureaucratic hurdles.
She explores opportunities within the current administration's focus on chronic illnesses and the potential role of federal agencies in tackling Lyme disease.
Megan encourages patients and caregivers to participate in the upcoming virtual "fly-in" event, offering training and support to help them make a difference.
Advocacy is not just about policy—it can be an empowering part of the healing journey, providing patients with purpose, connection, and a platform for change.
Resources & Links:
🔗 Follow the latest ILADS updates at ILADS.org
🔗 Learn more about Megan Bradshaw: Instagram @mcbradshaw
🔗Center for Lyme Action Website: CenterForLymeAction.org
🔗 Stay connected with Tick Boot Camp: Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | TikTok | Twitter (X)

Mar 21, 2025 • 28min
Episode 466: LIVE from ILADS: Tanja Mijatovic - Advancing Lyme Disease Testing with Red Laboratories
Key Takeaways:
Red Laboratories' Holistic Approach: A comprehensive testing strategy that examines not only pathogens but also immune function and gut health.
Phage-Based Borrelia Testing: A groundbreaking method utilizing bacteriophages to directly detect active Borrelia infections, enhancing diagnostic accuracy.
Gut Microbiome and Leaky Gut: The vital connection between gut health and Lyme disease, with in-house microbiome testing revealing dysbiosis in most patients.
Immune Function Testing: Advanced biomarkers and immune messengers provide insights into the immune system's response to tick-borne infections.
Personalized Testing and Treatment: Red Laboratories collaborates with healthcare providers to create tailored testing and treatment plans for each patient.
Resources & Links:
🔗 Follow the latest ILADS updates at ILADS.org
🔗 Learn more about Tanja Mijatovic and Red Laboratories
🔗 Stay connected with Tick Boot Camp: Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | TikTok | Twitter (X)

Mar 20, 2025 • 34min
Episode 465: LIVE from ILADS: Dr. Leo Shea - The Physiological Basis of Psychiatric Symptoms in Lyme Disease
Join Tick Boot Camp for an exclusive live interview from the ILADS Conference with renowned neuropsychologist Dr. Leo Shea. Dr. Shea, a past president of ILADS, shares groundbreaking insights into the physiological underpinnings of psychiatric and psychological symptoms in Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses.
Key Takeaways:
The historical shift from viewing psychiatric conditions as theological to recognizing their physiological basis
The importance of a multidisciplinary approach involving both medical and psychological professionals
The impact of misdiagnosis and "medical gaslighting" on patients' mental health
The role of social isolation, loss of purpose, and identity in the healing journey
How inflammation and infection in the brain can contribute to cognitive and psychiatric symptoms
The influence of trauma, both past and present, on the presentation of Lyme disease
The significance of addressing environmental factors like mold and heavy metals
ILADS' recommendation for a team-based approach to Lyme disease treatment
Resources & Links:
Follow the latest ILADS updates: ILADS.org
Learn more about Dr. Leo Shea: Saint Michael’s College Spotlight
Stay connected with Tick Boot Camp: Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | TikTok | Twitter (X)

Mar 19, 2025 • 15min
Episode 464: LIVE from ILADS: Joel Adams & Dr. Jason Bachewich - Treating Chronic Lyme with Innovative Supplements
In this special live episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, recorded at the International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society (ILADS) Conference, host Richard Johannesen sits down with Joel Adams, the founder of CelWel, and Dr. Jason Bachewich, a Lyme-literate naturopathic doctor from Winnipeg, Canada. Together, they explore how CellWell, an innovative supplement, is showing promising results in the treatment of chronic Lyme disease and long COVID.
Key Takeaways:
Joel Adams’ Journey: Learn about how CelWel was developed, initially used for COVID-19 patients, and its potential to support those with chronic illnesses like Lyme disease.
Lyme Disease in Canada: Dr. Bucha provides insights into the challenges of diagnosing and treating Lyme disease in Canada, especially in the Winnipeg area.
CelWel’s Impact: The supplement's anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and anti-parasitic properties are discussed in detail, showing how it helps modulate the immune system for chronic Lyme patients.
Real-World Results: Dr. Bucha shares a personal success story about using CelWel with his daughter to address severe long COVID symptoms, noting significant improvements.
Collaborative Approach: Hear how Joel Adams and other Lyme-literate doctors, including Dr. Destiny Green, are working together to use CelWel with pediatric patients for positive results.
Resources & Links:
Follow the latest ILADS updates at ILADS.org
Learn more about Joel Adams and CelWel at CelWel.com
Stay connected with Tick Boot Camp: Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | TikTok | Twitter

Mar 18, 2025 • 20min
Episode 463: LIVE from ILADS: Dr. Geoff Dow - Tackling Babesiosis with Malaria Research
Join us for a special live episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast from the International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society (ILADS) Conference! In this interview, we sit down with Dr. Geoff Dow, an Australian-born researcher specializing in malaria and infectious diseases. Dr. Dow shares his journey from veterinary and biomedical sciences to his groundbreaking work at Walter Reed Army Institute of Research and the founding of 60 Degrees Pharmaceuticals, a company dedicated to combating tropical and infectious diseases.
Key Takeaways:
Dr. Dow's expertise in malaria research has provided valuable insights into treating Babesia, a parasite closely related to malaria.
Tafenoquine, an FDA-approved drug for malaria prevention, has shown promise in experimental models and off-label use for Babesiosis treatment.
He emphasizes the importance of clinical data to secure FDA approval for tafenoquine as a Babesiosis treatment, a growing concern in the Lyme disease community.
The discussion covers the challenges of off-label drug use and the need for safe and effective medical education regarding new treatment options.
Dr. Dow outlines the timeline for FDA approval, estimating 2-3 years if clinical trials are successful.
Resources & Links:
Follow the latest ILADS updates at ILADS.org
Learn more about Dr. Geoff Dow and 60 Degrees Pharmaceuticals: News Release
Stay connected with Tick Boot Camp: Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | TikTok | Twitter (X)

Mar 17, 2025 • 16min
Episode 462: LIVE from ILADS: Dr. Jody Greenfield - Overcoming Lyme Disease as a Doctor
In this special live episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, host Richard Johannesen interviews Dr. Jody Greenfield, a Lyme-literate doctor and ILADS board member. Dr. Greenfield shares his personal battle with Lyme disease, the challenges of getting diagnosed as a medical professional, and his journey from patient to expert in tick-borne illnesses.
Key Takeaways:
Dr. Greenfield’s background as a native New Yorker who grew up near Fire Island, where he was exposed to tick-borne diseases early in life.
Struggles with diagnosis despite his medical training, with an unexpected twist— a cleaning staff member pointed him to a Lyme-literate doctor.
Flaws in the healthcare system and why acute care fails many Lyme patients, highlighting the need for better testing and education.
Transition from patient to expert, including ILADS training under Dr. Bernard Raxlen and his work at the Lyme Resource Medical practice.
Role in advancing Lyme education by training the next generation of doctors to recognize and treat tick-borne illnesses effectively.
Importance of proper testing, such as the tick-borne relapsing fever test, for accurate diagnosis.
This episode is a must-listen for Lyme patients, caregivers, and medical professionals seeking firsthand insights into the challenges of diagnosing and treating Lyme disease.
Resources & Links:
🔗 Follow the latest ILADS updates: ILADS.org
🔗 Learn more about Dr. Jody Greenfield: GetWellMedicalCare.com
🔗 Stay connected with Tick Boot Camp: Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | TikTok | Twitter (X)

Mar 16, 2025 • 23min
Episode 461: LIVE from ILADS: Dennis Katz & Michael Macione – Standardized Supplements for Lyme Disease
Introduction:
Guests: Dennis Katz (President) & Michael Macione (VP of Sales & Marketing), founders of Doctor Inspired Formulations
Recorded at: ILADS Conference, the largest Lyme disease conference in the world
Focus: Providing high-quality, standardized supplements for the Lyme disease community
Key Points:
Background and Inspiration for Doctor-Inspired Formulations
Founded in response to physicians’ frustrations over inconsistent supplement quality
Initially launched with Mimosa pudica and liposomal artemisinin to ensure proper dosing and purity
Challenges in Sourcing and Standardizing Supplements
Difficulty in obtaining high-quality, contaminant-free raw materials
Rigorous quality control, including certificates of analysis for every batch
Expanding Product Line to Meet Lyme Community Needs
Grew from 2 to 8 products based on feedback from Lyme-literate doctors and patients
Offerings include liposomal curcumin, oregano oil, artemisinin, and Mimosa pudica
Enhancing Bioavailability and Reducing Inflammation
Use of enteric coating, micronization, and carrier oils to maximize absorption
Formulations designed to reduce common side effects
Key Products and Their Uses
Cinnamon-Clove-Oregano Formula: Supports biofilm disruption and Lyme persisters, included in Dr. Horowitz's protocol
Whisbax Topical Spray/Cream: Designed for skin issues like actinomyces and post-tick bite support
Commitment to Quality and Customer Service
Manufactured in the U.S. in cGMP-certified facilities with stringent testing protocols
Small company with a direct line of communication between founders and customers
Conclusion:
Doctor Inspired Formulations is dedicated to providing standardized, pharmaceutical-grade supplements for the Lyme community
Founders emphasize the importance of transparency, quality, and patient-centered innovation
Resources & Links:
🔗 Follow the latest ILADS updates at ILADS.org
🔗 Learn more about Doctor Inspired Formulations: DoctorInspiredFormulations.com
🔗 Stay connected with Tick Boot Camp: Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | TikTok | Twitter (X)

Mar 15, 2025 • 1h 46min
Episode 460: Overcoming Lyme Disease: Dr. Andi Campitelli's 4-Phase Treatment
In this powerful episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, we delve deep into the world of Lyme disease with Dr. Andi Campitelli, a highly experienced naturopathic doctor from Toronto, Canada. Dr. Campitelli shares her personal journey with Lyme disease, her unique 4-phase treatment approach, and invaluable insights for anyone struggling with chronic Lyme disease.
Episode Highlights:
Dr. Campitelli's Personal Lyme Story: Discover how a passion for preventative medicine, sparked by personal loss, led Dr. Campitelli to specialize in complex chronic illnesses like Lyme.
The 4-Phase Lyme Treatment Framework: Learn about Dr. Campitelli's comprehensive approach, focusing on:
Foundation: Addressing getting the body ready for treatment with things like gut health, detoxification, hormones, genetics, and inflammation.
Natural Antimicrobials: Utilizing herbal/botanical tinctures, binders, etc. to address mold, SIBO, parasites, and infections (Lyme, Babesia, Bartonella, etc.).
Judicious Use of Antibiotics and Pharmaceuticals: When and how a variety of antibiotics/pharmaceuticals can play a role in Lyme recovery, including Ivermectin, Hydroxychloroquine, Disulfiram, Dapsone, etc.
Long-Term Maintenance: Strategies for sustained wellness and preventing relapse.
Mental Health & Neuroplasticity: Explore the crucial role of mental health support and neuroplasticity in the Lyme recovery process.
Detoxification Strategies: Understand the importance of supporting the body's natural detoxification pathways.
Expert Insights from a Lyme-Literate Doctor: Benefit from Dr. Campitelli's experience treating over 1,000 Lyme patients and her own personal journey overcoming the disease.
Connect with Tick Boot Camp: Listen to more inspiring stories and expert advice on our Tick Boot Camp Podcast. Subscribe on your favorite platform (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube Music) and join our community to liberate yourself and others from Lyme disease.