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When Dr. Richard Kennedy took just three bites of a marijuana brownie years ago, he wasn't prepared for ceramic lions jumping across coffee tables and onto his lap. This vivid hallucination marked his first and last cannabis experience—but offers the perfect entry point into our comprehensive exploration of marijuana's complex role in modern society.

The Wellness Musketeers gather medical expert Dr. Kennedy, fitness expert and host "Aussie" Mike James, economist Kettle Hviding and wellness consultant Dave Liss examine cannabis through multiple lenses, creating a 360-degree view that challenges both prohibitionist fearmongering and uncritical enthusiasm. Each contributor shares personal experiences (or lack thereof) with marijuana, setting a tone of honesty that carries throughout this nuanced discussion.

We explore marijuana's medical applications, where evidence shows clear benefits for chemotherapy-induced nausea and specific pediatric seizure disorders, while other uses remain promising but less definitively proven. Dr. Kennedy explains the critical distinction between THC and CBD components and highlights how standardization issues complicate both research and patient experiences. The conversation doesn't shy away from concerns about youth marijuana use, cognitive effects, and the challenges of conducting rigorous scientific studies on a substance that remains federally prohibited.

The economic dimensions prove equally fascinating, as our panel unpacks how legalization has affected state revenues, created banking complications, and established a competitive but still-evolving marketplace. From security guards at cash-only dispensaries to the complications of marijuana tourism, the discussion highlights how policy decisions ripple through communities in unexpected ways.

Whether you're considering marijuana for medical purposes, curious about its economic impact, or simply wanting to understand this evolving aspect of our culture, this episode delivers thoughtful analysis without agenda or oversimplification. Join us for this enlightening conversation that respects your intelligence while expanding your understanding of a plant that's simultaneously ancient and at the cutting edge of social change.

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Unlock the mysteries of weight loss drugs with us, as we inform you about the groundbreaking GLP-1 medications transforming obesity treatment. Joined by Dr. Richard Kennedy, we explore how these diabetes drugs, like Ozempic, have taken center stage in the fight against obesity. From reducing cardiovascular risks to improving sugar metabolism, these injectables are more than just weight loss solutions—they're potential game-changers for health and wellness. Aussie Mike James adds a fitness perspective, while Kettle Hiding delves into the economic dimensions of this pharmaceutical trend.

We tackle the gritty details, discussing potential side effects and the critical need for medical supervision when using these medications. Discover why maintaining muscle mass is crucial and how weight training serves as a powerful ally in preserving it. We question the conventional reliance on BMI as the sole measure of obesity and advocate for a more nuanced assessment of body composition. Our conversation also touches on the controversial idea of micro-dosing these drugs, weighing the pros and cons with a cautious lens.

The broader implications of these medications stretch far beyond individual benefits, reaching into global health landscapes. We discuss the accessibility hurdles for low income people and less affluent nations and how the production of generics might offer solutions. With anecdotes and studies underlining the psychological and societal pressures of weight loss, we underscore the importance of lifestyle changes and a holistic approach to health. As we wrap up, we invite you, our listeners, to join this ongoing conversation, sharing your questions and insights as we navigate these complex issues together.

Through expert insights and personal anecdotes, we explore the interplay between medication, lifestyle changes, and societal attitudes towards obesity.
• Discussion on how GLP-1 medications work
• The dual benefit of managing blood sugar and promoting weight loss
• Importance of muscle preservation while using these drugs
• Cost barriers and insurance implications for accessing weight loss medications
• Societal views on the stigma of using weight loss drugs
• The necessity of medical supervision when using these prescriptions
• Long-term effects and sustainability of weight loss achieved through medication

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What if you could revolutionize skincare for women of color by addressing a glaring gap in medical education? On this episode of the Wellness Musketeers podcast, we welcome Sheena Franklin, the visionary founder of K'ept, as she tackles the monumental challenge of health disparities in dermatology. With a startling revelation that less than 3% of medical textbook images cover skin conditions on skin of color, Sheena shares how her company is taking bold steps with tele-dermatology to fill this void. We'll unpack the complexities of forming academic partnerships and crafting a comprehensive dataset that aids physicians at the crucial point of care, ultimately aiming to reduce the burden on dermatologists and enhance healthcare outcomes for women.

As our conversation unfolds, we delve into the historical mistrust communities of color face in healthcare, rooted in injustices like the Tuskegee Study and the story of Henrietta Lacks. Sheena discusses how K'ept is leveraging technology to foster an environment of trust, enabling women to safely share skincare data in their own spaces. We also confront the systemic changes needed in the healthcare industry to genuinely engage with marginalized communities, examining how familiar methods like photo data collection can reduce misdiagnosis and improve health conditions that disproportionately affect women.

Rounding out our discussion, we explore the promising yet challenging frontier of telemedicine and AI in skincare. Sheena envisions a future where these technologies are seamlessly integrated into places like pharmacies and retailers, bringing skincare solutions closer to those who need them most. We'll touch on the logistical hurdles of tele-dermatology, the critical role of dermatologists in initial assessments, and K'ept's ambitious goal of reaching a million women. Join us as we face the broader issues of trust, poverty, and accessibility in healthcare, and discover how slow but steady progress can lead to more inclusive solutions for everyone.

Learn more about K'ept Health and Sheena Franklin's work:

• K'ept Health App
• Sheena D. Franklin Website
• The Velvet Lab Newsletter: Women's Health, Femtech, & Technology In Healthcare

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Contact Wellness Musketeers:

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What if you had a coaching platform that understood your unique journey and motivations behind each action? On this episode of Wellness Musketeers, we bring you an insightful conversation with Alex Roe, the inspiring CEO and co-founder of Summit. This AI-powered coaching platform is transforming personal wellness by acting as your accountability partner, integrating fitness, mental health, and career development into a single cohesive experience. Listen to our very own Dave Liss as he shares his personal experience using Summit to enhance his daily routine and wellness journey, highlighting the profound impact of personalized support in reaching your goals.

Embrace the future of wellness coaching as we uncover the critical role of personalized accountability in achieving health and wellness ambitions. Whether you're looking for empathetic encouragement or a no-nonsense drill sergeant style, Summit's adaptable coaching experience is designed to suit your motivational needs. Through discussions with Alex and Dr. Richard Kennedy, we explore the growing potential of AI-driven coaches in stress management, particularly for ADHD, and ponder the future implications of AI in the healthcare realm. Privacy and data security remain paramount as we assess the technological advancements enabling this supportive journey.

Step into the exciting world of wearable tech integration with Summit, where devices like Apple Watch and Fitbit enhance your coaching experience. Discover how these technologies track your activities and provide real-time feedback for continuous improvement. Reflecting on the art of habit formation with AI, Dave shares his appreciation for the Summit coach's objective yet supportive nature. This episode paints a hopeful picture of how AI, when combined with personal commitment, can foster healthier lifestyles and improved well-being.

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Email Dave at davidmliss@gmail.com with comments, questions, and suggestions for future guests.

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Get a sneak peek of the upcoming episode of the Wellness Musketeers Podcast! In this teaser, Alex Roe, CEO of Summit AI, gives us a glimpse into how AI-powered coaching is transforming health and wellness. Learn how personalized AI tools can help you stay accountable, achieve your goals, and unlock your full potential.

The full episode drops this Monday—don’t miss it! 🎧 Subscribe now to hear the entire conversation when it’s live.

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Email Dave at davidmliss@gmail.com with comments, questions, and suggestions for future guests.

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Join us for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Jenny Powers, a former academic turned writer, as she reveals how evolutionary biology can unlock the secrets to modern wellness. Discover how societal structures might be at the heart of your burnout and how embracing our ancestral roots could be the key to reclaiming your health. Through the lens of her book "On the Origin of Being," Jenny invites us to rethink our relationships with sleep, nutrition, and nature, providing a fresh perspective on aligning our lifestyles with our biological design.

Ever wondered if the paleo diet is really all it's cracked up to be? Get ready to challenge popular misconceptions about ancestral diets with our exploration of evolutionary nutrition. From the diverse diets of ancient cultures to the impacts of the agricultural revolution, Jenny breaks down why whole foods are essential and how our bodies have adapted to different dietary needs. We also emphasize the importance of personalized nutrition, revealing why there is no one-size-fits-all approach to eating well.

As we wrap up, the conversation shifts to the profound power of nature in enhancing our well-being. Listen as we discuss the benefits of syncing our lives with natural light cycles and the stress-reducing magic of the great outdoors. Reflecting on cultural attitudes towards work and productivity, we look at how practices from different parts of the world can inform a more balanced and fulfilling lifestyle. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain practical strategies for navigating the complexities of modern life through a timeless, evolutionary lens.

• Learn more about the book and Dr. Dr. Jenny Powers here: https://www.ontheoriginofbeing.com/
• Origin of Being Book Trailer: https://youtu.be/O32XPxMSi5c
• Instagram: @ontheoriginofbeing
• Facebook: @ontheoriginofbeing
• Jenny’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-powers-terry-b8a5a658/

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Email Dave at davidmliss@gmail.com with comments, questions, and suggestions for future guests.

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Curious about how to kickstart your fitness journey after years of inactivity without risking injury? Join us for an eye-opening episode of the Wellness Musketeers podcast, featuring expert insights from Dr. Richard Kennedy, a seasoned internist. Learn the crucial first steps in safely beginning a fitness regimen, the importance of consulting healthcare professionals, and hear cautionary tales of overexertion. This episode is packed with practical advice on starting slow and building intensity gradually while listening to your body’s cues to avoid setbacks.

Tailored for older adults, our discussion highlights exercise recommendations from the American College of Sports Medicine. Discover how medium and high-intensity aerobic exercises, alongside weight training, can significantly enhance your muscle strength and overall fitness. Plus, we explore how activities like jiu-jitsu and boxing that double as effective resistance training routines. Enjoyment is key to consistency, and we'll show you how integrating enjoyable activities can make your fitness journey more sustainable and fulfilling.

In this episode, we also emphasize the critical role of sleep and recovery in achieving your fitness goals. From the benefits of REM sleep for psychological recovery to techniques like the RICEM approach for reducing inflammation, our conversation covers it all. Learn about the importance of hydration, setting realistic weight loss expectations, and the advantages of fitness trackers. Plus, get expert tips on monitoring heart rate and the mental wellness benefits of outdoor exercise. Tune in for a comprehensive guide to optimizing your health and fitness journey, backed by expert advice and real-life examples.

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Email Dave at davidmliss@gmail.com with comments, questions, and suggestions for future guests.

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What if a children's hospital became the target in a brutal conflict? In this powerful episode of the Wellness Musketeers podcast, we’re joined by MP Yaroslav Yurchyshyn, a key figure in Ukrainian politics and an ardent advocate for reform and transparency. As the chairman of Ukraine's Freedom of Speech Committee, Yurchyshyn provides an unfiltered glimpse into the relentless Russian drone attacks on Kyiv, focusing on the horrifying strike that devastated Kyiv's Children's Hospital. He recounts the harrowing aftermath, the immense loss of young lives, and the heartbreaking impact on families and the healthcare system.

Join us as MP Yurchyshyn shares not just stories of destruction, but tales of resilience and hope amidst the chaos. He highlights the support pouring in from international partners and the ongoing efforts to rebuild essential infrastructure. This episode serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of war and the unyielding spirit of a nation fighting for recovery and justice. Gain insight into the urgent need for global solidarity and humanitarian aid and hear firsthand how communities are coming together in the face of unimaginable adversity. Don't miss this compelling conversation that underscores the real stories behind the headlines.

• Support Ukraine's fight for freedom and help rebuild vital infrastructure by donating to UNITED24, the official fundraising platform of Ukraine, with just one click.
• Donate now: https://u24.gov.ua/

Support the show

Contact Wellness Musketeers:

Email Dave at davidmliss@gmail.com with comments, questions, and suggestions for future guests.

Follow us on our social media:

• Bluesky
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Subscribe to our newsletter:

• Contact our co-host "Aussie" Mike James and sign up for our newsletter: Wellness Musketeers Newsletter