

The DNA Talks Podcast
Bryce Wylde, Kashif Khan, Dr. Lara Varden, and Dr. Stephanie Nielsen
Welcome to the DNA Talks Podcast where we take on the mission of unlocking the code of your genetics. This season is all about you – upgrading your health not just on the surface, but down to the root cause. Join us, as your clinicians of The DNA Company investigate your DNA and beyond! Formerly the UNPILLED Podcast, the DNA Talks Podcast continues to be the innovative provider of FUNCTIONAL GENOMICS SOLUTIONS for personalized and preventative health and wellness.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 30, 2025 • 33min
What Functional Genomics Can Bring In One's Life with Kristina Buch
Did you know that it is possible to completely turn your life around with a functional genomics test?In this episode, Lynn Angel, an in-house clinician of the DNA Company, is joined by one of her clients, Kristina Buch. Kristina has done both the DNA 360 test, and the Gut 360 test, and even decided to have her own Black Label supplements formulated at the DNA Company. She also shares how having a functional genomics practitioner like Lynn has been essential to her journey into taking her life back.Listen as Kristina speaks about how she has experienced difficulty in her life as she constantly sought after answers to constant food reactions, exhaustion, sleep, gut issues, emotional overwhelm, and erratic moods - all of which has affected her relationships, her artistry, and her job. She then discusses how she witnessed the changes in her life as she made the decision to be informed and be tested to be knowledgeable about ways she can help herself through diet, lifestyle, supplementation, sleep, and mindset.______________________________________________________Keep yourself up to date on The DNA Talks Podcast! Follow our socials below:The DNA Talks Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dnatalkspodcast/______________________________________________________Music: Inspiring Motivational Background by Stock-Waveshttps://www.stock-waves.com/https://protunes.net/Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pbwVDTn-I0o&list=PLQtpqy3zeTGB7V5lkhkfBVaiZyrysv_fG&index=5______________________________________________________Music: Peaceful Corporate by Stock-Waveshttps://protunes.net/Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I34bTKW8ud0&list=PLQtpqy3zeTGB7V5lkhkfBVaiZyrysv_fGMedical Disclaimer: The information provided in this communication is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.

Sep 23, 2025 • 37min
The Genetics of Mental Health with Dr. Tiffany Smith, and Dr. Adilia Sapp
Join Dr. Krista Kostroman, Dr. Tiffany Smith, and Dr. Adilia Sapp, as we explore the cutting-edge connections between genetics and mental health! Learn how genomic insights can uncover the root causes of anxiety, depression, and stress, and discover how personalized interventions can improve emotional resilience and mental wellness. Our expert panel guides you through the role of genes in neurotransmitter function, stress response, and detox pathways, offering actionable strategies to enhance mental health based on your unique genetic profile.______________________________________________________Keep yourself up to date on The DNA Talks Podcast! Follow our socials below:The DNA Talks Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dnatalkspodcast/______________________________________________________Music: Inspiring Motivational Background by Stock-Waveshttps://www.stock-waves.com/https://protunes.net/Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pbwVDTn-I0o&list=PLQtpqy3zeTGB7V5lkhkfBVaiZyrysv_fG&index=5______________________________________________________Music: Peaceful Corporate by Stock-Waveshttps://protunes.net/Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I34bTKW8ud0&list=PLQtpqy3zeTGB7V5lkhkfBVaiZyrysv_fGMedical Disclaimer: The information provided in this communication is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.

Sep 17, 2025 • 59min
Beyond BRCA+: Navigating the Skies of Genetic Risk with Dr. Boyce Berkel
Throughout the years, we've always been scared of Breast Cancer and the possession of the BRCA gene which may indicate its presence - but did you know it's one of the more curable forms of cancer with a 99% survival rate when detected early?This is the journey Beyond BRCA—where we explore not just the mutation, but the terrain it travels through. Where we ask: What does it mean to fly with purpose, even when the skies are uncertain? And how can we equip the next generation of with the tools to navigate their own health?Today we highlight how knowing your BRCA status isn’t the destination but the beginning of taking ahold of your health. Here are the highlights of today's episode:The Limits of BRCAHow BRCA1/2 became the most recognized breast cancer genesWhy most breast cancers are not BRCA-relatedEmotional impact of isolated genetic results without terrain context Recent Statistics & Relevant Data Other Genetic Pathways Detoxification genes: GST, CYP1A1, CYP1B1, COMTHormone metabolism, oxidative stress, inflammationFunctional genomics Genes Are Not Destiny Genetic predisposition vs. tipping pointsReal-world examples of risk reductionEpigenetics Tools for Prevention & Precision HealthDNA360 Test metabolism, DNA repairBreast360 TestGrail Liquid BiopsyActionable Strategies ______________________________________________________Keep yourself up to date on The DNA Talks Podcast! Follow our socials below:The DNA Talks Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dnatalkspodcast/______________________________________________________Music: Inspiring Motivational Background by Stock-Waveshttps://www.stock-waves.com/https://protunes.net/Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pbwVDTn-I0o&list=PLQtpqy3zeTGB7V5lkhkfBVaiZyrysv_fG&index=5______________________________________________________Music: Peaceful Corporate by Stock-Waveshttps://protunes.net/Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I34bTKW8ud0&list=PLQtpqy3zeTGB7V5lkhkfBVaiZyrysv_fGMedical Disclaimer: The information provided in this communication is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.

Sep 12, 2025 • 53min
Methylation and Mental Health with Dr. Adilia Sapp
Methylation is a hot topic right now - but how does it impact your mental health? Join our hosts Justin Harris and Dr. Adilia Sapp as they explore how methylation—a biochemical process influenced by your DNA—affects neurotransmitter production, mood regulation, and overall cognitive function.You’ll learn about genetic variations that impact methylation pathways and discover personalized strategies for supporting mental wellness through targeted nutrition, supplementation, and lifestyle changes.______________________________________________________Keep yourself up to date on The DNA Talks Podcast! Follow our socials below:The DNA Talks Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dnatalkspodcast/______________________________________________________Music: Inspiring Motivational Background by Stock-Waveshttps://www.stock-waves.com/https://protunes.net/Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pbwVDTn-I0o&list=PLQtpqy3zeTGB7V5lkhkfBVaiZyrysv_fG&index=5______________________________________________________Music: Peaceful Corporate by Stock-Waveshttps://protunes.net/Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I34bTKW8ud0&list=PLQtpqy3zeTGB7V5lkhkfBVaiZyrysv_fGMedical Disclaimer: The information provided in this communication is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.

Sep 4, 2025 • 1h 9min
How Natural and Artificial Light Sources Affect the Brain with Roudy Nassif of VivaRays
"The quality of our life is entirely dependent on the quality of light that is entering our eyes."In this episode, Dr. Lara Varden, Dean of DNA University, brings back Roudy Nassif for the fourth time on the podcast to talk about how different sources and hues of light affect our brains, especially in the aspect of mental health and overall cognitive function. Roudy is the founder of Vivarays, leading the Light Revolution. His company is responsible for introducing the world's first circadian light-harmonizing eyewear. These glasses harmonize the adverse effects of artificial light coming from screens and indoor light bulbs, helping individuals sync with nature's rhythm for a more vibrant life.Dr. Lara and Roudy first discuss what sets VivaRays apart, diving into the research behind their blue-light blocking glasses by going into the specific colors and hues that affect our bodies. The discussion goes from looking into the shade of blue blocked that comes at the cost of energy, to a variety of lenses that prevent that, to lenses that simulate the bonfire's amber hues for a restful night's sleep.They also discuss the importance of light when it comes to aiding our mental health and our brain's capability to learn. This factors in our light environment, and our own personal habits that cause hyperactivity and disrupt our circadian rhythm.______________________________________________________Learn more about VivaRays today!Visit their website at https://vivarays.com/Read through VivaRays' winter blog through this link: https://vivarays.com/pages/7-winter-blog-series?utm_source=lara-varden-thednacompany&utm_campaign=podcast&utm_medium=Grab your free ebook: The Key to Master your Sleep and EnergyVivarays is also on Instagram at @vivarays______________________________________________________Keep yourself up to date on The DNA Talks Podcast! Follow our socials below:The DNA Talks Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dnatalkspodcast/______________________________________________________Music: Inspiring Motivational Background by Stock-Waveshttps://www.stock-waves.com/https://protunes.net/Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pbwVDTn-I0o&list=PLQtpqy3zeTGB7V5lkhkfBVaiZyrysv_fG&index=5______________________________________________________Music: Peaceful Corporate by Stock-Waveshttps://protunes.net/Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I34bTKW8ud0&list=PLQtpqy3zeTGB7V5lkhkfBVaiZyrysv_fGMedical Disclaimer: The information provided in this communication is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.

Aug 26, 2025 • 44min
Metabolic Freedom Meets Functional Genomics with Ben Azadi
Have you ever felt hopeless when it comes to how your health has turned out to be as you've lived in a generation where convenience is prioritized over nutrition?In this episode, Dr. Krista Kostroman, Chief Science Officer of the DNA Company, brings in Ben Azadi, a health educator, best-selling author, and founder of Keto Kamp, known for his personal transformation from depression and obesity to metabolic health after a period of addiction and a poor diet. He transformed his life by losing 80 pounds and achieving 6% body fat after adopting a keto and intermittent fasting lifestyle, which inspired him to help others live healthier lives, leading him to become a global wellness advocate and host of the Keto Kamp podcast and YouTube channel.They dive into how Ben was able to turn his life around after growing up being fed tons of fast and processed food. This involves trial and error, lifestyle change, and a complete mindset overhaul into becoming the best version of himself today.Here are the highlights of today's episode:01:32 Becoming the Champion of Metabolics04:52 The Process of Unlearning06:29 The Doctors' Narrative09:24 Metabolic Issues within the World Populations16:46 Metabolic Freedom21:41 The Trial and Error25:08 The Biohacking Dollar29:14 Mindset and Approaching the Changes40:36 Ben Azadi's SocialsIf you wish to connect more with Ben Azadi, you may check out his channels here:Website: https://benazadi.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thebenazadi/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebenazadi/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-azadi-b7122323/Twitter: https://x.com/THEBENAZADIYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUh_MOM621MvpW_HLtfkLyQYou may also check out his book, "Metabolic Freedom" wherever books are sold or through this link: https://ketokamp.clickfunnels.com/metabolic-freedom______________________________________________________Keep yourself up to date on The DNA Talks Podcast! Follow our socials below:The DNA Talks Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dnatalkspodcast/______________________________________________________Music: Inspiring Motivational Background by Stock-Waveshttps://www.stock-waves.com/https://protunes.net/Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pbwVDTn-I0o&list=PLQtpqy3zeTGB7V5lkhkfBVaiZyrysv_fG&index=5______________________________________________________Music: Peaceful Corporate by Stock-Waveshttps://protunes.net/Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I34bTKW8ud0&list=PLQtpqy3zeTGB7V5lkhkfBVaiZyrysv_fGMedical Disclaimer: The information provided in this communication is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.

Aug 21, 2025 • 46min
Fitness As You Age: Tailoring Exercise Plans to Your Genetic Blueprint
📣 DID YOU KNOW: Regular physical activity reduces the risk of all-cause mortality by 30-35%, including a decreased risk of heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers.Join our fitness experts Dr. Lara Varden and Justin Harris TODAY - Thursday, as they cover critical topics such as bone density loss and mental health, while examining how genetics influence muscle composition, endurance, and recovery.Learn easy ways to incorporate fitness into your daily routine, maintain flexibility, and make exercise enjoyable at any age. Plus, discover the benefits of creating a personalized fitness plan with professional support to promote long-term health and mobility.______________________________________________________Keep yourself up to date on The DNA Talks Podcast! Follow our socials below:The DNA Talks Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dnatalkspodcast/______________________________________________________Music: Inspiring Motivational Background by Stock-Waveshttps://www.stock-waves.com/https://protunes.net/Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pbwVDTn-I0o&list=PLQtpqy3zeTGB7V5lkhkfBVaiZyrysv_fG&index=5______________________________________________________Music: Peaceful Corporate by Stock-Waveshttps://protunes.net/Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I34bTKW8ud0&list=PLQtpqy3zeTGB7V5lkhkfBVaiZyrysv_fGMedical Disclaimer: The information provided in this communication is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.

Aug 12, 2025 • 52min
Impact of High Cortisol on Health with Dr. Krista Kostroman, Dr. Lara Varden, and Justin Harris
Are you suffering from chronic high cortisol? Learn how it is impacting your health!Join our experts as they explore how prolonged stress and elevated cortisol levels can lead to a range of health issues, including weight gain, hormonal imbalances, digestive problems, sleep disturbances, and mental health challenges.You will gain valuable insights into how genetics play a role in cortisol regulation and learn personalized strategies to manage stress, lower cortisol, and improve long-term health outcomes.______________________________________________________Keep yourself up to date on The DNA Talks Podcast! Follow our socials below:The DNA Talks Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dnatalkspodcast/______________________________________________________Music: Inspiring Motivational Background by Stock-Waveshttps://www.stock-waves.com/https://protunes.net/Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pbwVDTn-I0o&list=PLQtpqy3zeTGB7V5lkhkfBVaiZyrysv_fG&index=5______________________________________________________Music: Peaceful Corporate by Stock-Waveshttps://protunes.net/Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I34bTKW8ud0&list=PLQtpqy3zeTGB7V5lkhkfBVaiZyrysv_fGMedical Disclaimer: The information provided in this communication is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.

Aug 8, 2025 • 1h 3min
WTF with Dr. Krista Kostroman and Dr. Betty Murray: Women's Health, Protecting Children, and Dr. ChatGPT
We're back in sharing our WTFs with Dr. Krista Kostroman, and Dr. Betty Murray!In this episode, Dr. Krista and Dr. Betty shed light on the situation of women's accessibility to healthcare. They discuss how hormone replacement therapy and how access to these particular medications could make the difference when it comes to women's health. They also discuss how the current administration has this way of slowly stripping away women and children's rights. Children not receiving the proper lookout in which there is a wide invalidation of reports of children being harmed especially in the church due to the First Amendment, which the US administration is supportive of. Lastly, Dr. Krista and Dr. Betty tackle the dangers of Dr. ChatGPT - where AI that is made available to all has not been trained for specific medical reasons yet the majority of the population nowadays tend to believe the first answer they receive from an AI bot which leads to dangers in healthcare, especially in the context of mental health.______________________________________________________Keep yourself up to date on The DNA Talks Podcast! Follow our socials below:The DNA Talks Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dnatalkspodcast/______________________________________________________Music: Inspiring Motivational Background by Stock-Waveshttps://www.stock-waves.com/https://protunes.net/Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pbwVDTn-I0o&list=PLQtpqy3zeTGB7V5lkhkfBVaiZyrysv_fG&index=5______________________________________________________Music: Peaceful Corporate by Stock-Waveshttps://protunes.net/Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I34bTKW8ud0&list=PLQtpqy3zeTGB7V5lkhkfBVaiZyrysv_fGMedical Disclaimer: The information provided in this communication is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.

Aug 5, 2025 • 7min
Nerd's Nook: Late-Onset Depression and Alzheimer’s Dementia: What’s the Connection?
Are there ways to detect the presence of Alzheimer’s dementia early, so preventive measures can be taken to reverse or slow its progression? In this special episode of Nerds' Nook, we join Dr. Krista Kostroman, Chief Science Officer of The DNA Company, in diving into the study of how APOE4 plays a factor to late onset dementia, and ways on how to prevent it. We know that certain diet and lifestyle changes can slow or even reverse dementia symptomology. Therefore, looking at the brains of those suffering with late-onset depression might give them a seven-year head start by making those changes before symptoms even appear. #Alzheimersdementia #dementia #lateonsetdepression #dementiatreatment Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in this communication is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.