Mark and Matteo explore the difficult reality of dual diagnosis, the limits of our current system, and the lived experience behind manic episodes, depression, and the pull of addiction. Matteo explains how suffering, time, and honest acceptance led him to recovery, and why connection is often stronger than willpower alone.
They discuss the gaps in psychiatry, the trial and error of medications, the danger of self-medication, the unpredictable nature of relapse, and the emotional toll on families who walk beside a loved one in crisis. Matteo also opens up about rebuilding his life, repairing relationships, and using his lived experience to support others who are still trying to find their footing.
This is an honest and deeply human look at mental illness, addiction, and what it truly takes to heal.
Matteo Esposito, Certified Addiction Recovery Coach : https://invisiblechallenge.org/1. Invisible illnesses are often dismissed because they do not show up on scans, yet they can be as disabling as any physical condition.
2. Dual diagnosis is complex. Treating bipolar disorder and addiction separately does not work. Both must be addressed together.
3. Self medication hides deeper problems. Many people use alcohol or cannabis to manage anxiety, insomnia, or early psychiatric symptoms.
4. Mania has clear warning signs. Loss of sleep, high energy, pressured speech, and risky decisions are red flags that should never be ignored.
5. Addiction is a brain illness. It is not a moral failure, not a weakness, and not a lack of willpower.
6. Suffering often precedes change. For many people, the turning point comes only after repeated lows and accumulated exhaustion.
7. Connection is protective. Recovery becomes possible when someone is surrounded by people who understand the journey.
8. Professional guidance matters. Matteo credits his progress to finally following recommendations from clinicians instead of relying on his own judgment.
9. Peer support accelerates healing. Helping others in recovery strengthens sobriety and reduces the risk of relapse.
10. Families carry their own burden. Loving someone with addiction or mental illness is heavy, complex, and often painful.
11. Recovery is a daily commitment. Even years later, it is maintained one decision and one day at a time.
12. Hope is a vital tool. Matteo reminds anyone struggling that change is possible, suffering is not permanent, and no one is alone in the process.
01:27 – Matteo describes entering the mental health system and navigating inconsistent levels of care.
02:21 – Mark breaks down substance use disorders and explains the limits of current treatments.
03:38 – Matteo discusses early experiences with psychiatrists and the difficulty of treating substance use and bipolar disorder together.
04:39 – Matteo explains when his mania first escalated and how substances intensified the symptoms.
05:49 – Matteo talks about the relationship between depression, self-medication, and worsening addiction.
06:11 – Mark explains why people self-medicate with alcohol or cannabis when their mind starts to unravel.
07:11 – Matteo shares how he gained partial stability with bipolar disorder before realizing his addiction was growing.
08:20 – Matteo describes the moment he recognized he had lost control over weed and alcohol.
09:57 – Mark explains the difference between mood disorders and personality disorders and why bipolar is often misunderstood.
10:23 – Matteo identifies the behavioral warning signs of mania, including loss of sleep, pressured speech, and risky decisions.
12:24 – Mark explains mood-stabilizing therapy and how medications level out extreme highs and lows.
12:47 – Matteo reflects on the importance of connection as the opposite of addiction.
14:30 – Matteo explains why suffering and time were the two forces that finally pushed him toward recovery.
15:54 – Mark outlines why addiction treatment has low success rates and why relapse is common.
17:24 – Matteo discusses peer support and how helping others helps him stay sober.
20:47 – Matteo describes how following professional guidance instead of his own instincts became a turning point.
23:13 – Matteo reflects on repairing relationships with family and how addiction strains loved ones.
25:08 – Matteo discusses how families struggle with the line between love and enabling.
27:29 – Matteo shares words of encouragement for people who feel hopeless in addiction or mental illness.
30:45 – Mark and Matteo discuss therapy, lived experience, and the need for ongoing self-awareness in recovery.
In this episode, Dr. Mark Bonta sits down with Dr. Kang Hsu, Chief Medical Officer of Canary Speech, to explore how AI and vocal biomarkers could make the human voice the next vital sign in medicine.
They unpack the science behind this breakthrough, showing how subtle shifts in tone, rhythm, and cadence can reveal early signs of depression, anxiety, Parkinson’s, or cognitive decline long before symptoms appear.
Dr. Hsu shares the origin story of Canary Speech, the research that powers its models, and how voice-based screening is already being used in healthcare, from telehealth visits to smart devices.
It is a look into a future where a 40-second voice sample could help doctors detect disease, personalize treatment, and bring empathy back into digital medicine.
Guest Link : https://canaryspeech.com/
00:00:00 — Welcome and opening reflections
00:00:07 — A candid start: location, context, and conversation
00:01:32 — Meet Dr. Kang Hsu, Chief Medical Officer of Canary Speech
00:02:44 — How voice became medicine: the story behind Canary Speech
00:03:29 — Why this conversation matters to clinicians and patients alike
00:04:05 — Making science accessible: breaking down complex ideas
00:05:59 — Behind the mic: how each episode comes together
00:06:59 — Keeping it real: refining, revising, and staying authentic
00:08:00 — Can your voice reveal your health? The rise of vocal biomarkers
00:12:00 — From telehealth to wearables: real-world applications
00:18:00 — The uphill climb: innovation vs. healthcare resistance
00:24:00 — The road ahead: what the future of voice in medicine could look like
00:30:00 — Closing thoughts and a glimpse into what’s next
1. Voice as a Vital Sign
Your voice holds more data than you realize. Subtle changes in tone and rhythm can reveal early signs of depression, anxiety, or even cognitive decline.
2. Objectivity Through AI
Canary Speech uses vocal biomarkers to turn speech into measurable data, giving clinicians objective insight where surveys and self-reporting fall short.
3. New Frontiers in Telehealth
Voice analysis can run quietly in the background of virtual visits and smart devices, creating a noninvasive way to monitor mental and physical health between appointments.
4. The Challenge of Change
Healthcare moves slowly. Adoption depends on awareness, trust, and showing how accessible technology like this can ease strain on overburdened systems.
5. A Future Built on Listening
In time, voice may join heart rate and blood pressure as a standard vital sign. It can help detect disease earlier and make care more personal, not less.
Dr. Justin shares how a personal injury and a deep curiosity about human physiology led him to develop an unexpected form of wearable technology—an erection ring that can not only enhance sexual performance but also collect valuable health data. Beneath the humor and candor lies something revolutionary: nocturnal erections, it turns out, may be one of the most powerful predictors of cardiovascular health we’ve been overlooking.
In this episode, Dr. Bonta and Dr. Justin unpack what it means when men stop getting morning erections, how this can serve as an early warning sign for heart disease, and why the term “erectile dysfunction” might need to be retired altogether. They explore the complex interplay between vascular, neurological, and psychological factors that drive sexual performance; and how rebranding “dysfunction” into erectile fitness reframes the conversation around men’s health, confidence, and relationships.
From bedside humor to hard science, Dr. Justin reveals how FirmTech’s technology has already identified hidden cardiac disease in users, improved relationships, and empowered men to take charge of their health in a completely new way. The discussion ranges from cardiovascular physiology to the social stigma surrounding male sexual health—and how technology might just be the bridge that makes it easier to talk about.
If you’ve ever wondered what your body might be trying to tell you, why sex can be one of medicine’s most underused diagnostic tools, or how innovation can transform intimacy and health alike, this episode is for you.
Let’s ditch the lab coat and get real about the science—and future—of erections.
Dr. Elliot Justin, MD, FACeP, CEO of FirmTech
https://myfirmtech.com
01:00 Introduction to Health Metrics
02:56 The Journey to Sexual Health Technology
05:48 Understanding Nocturnal Erections
09:13 The Role of Vascular Health
11:57 Redefining Erectile Dysfunction
14:54 The Impact of Technology on Sexual Health
17:53 The Importance of Venous Return
21:06 Patient Experiences and Relationship Dynamics
24:02 The Power of Data in Sexual Health
26:56 Safety and Usage of the Technology
29:57 Future of Sexual Health Screening
32:54 Concluding Thoughts on Sexual Health
In a world obsessed with biohacking, supplements, and quick fixes, Dr. Ongaro brings the conversation back to fundamentals; how to age strong, not just long. Drawing from his years working with astronauts exposed to the accelerated aging effects of space travel, he reveals how lessons from outer space can transform how we live here on Earth.
Together, Dr. Bonta and Dr. Ongaro unpack what it really means to live well into our later decades; why preserving muscle is the key to longevity, how sleep acts as free medicine, and why fitness, nutrition, and environment are the true “anti-aging” tools. They challenge the hype around lifespan extension and focus instead on the daily, unsexy habits: movement, connection, consistency - that have the biggest impact on well-being.
Dr. Ongaro also shares how his work has evolved to emphasize coaching, where he works to help people bridge the gap between knowing what to do and actually doing it. From setting up your home to promote healthy choices, to rethinking gratification, he offers practical, science-informed ways to turn small behavioral changes into lifelong transformation.
If you’ve ever wondered whether living to 100 is the goal; or if living well to 80 might be the better and more realistic one, this episode will reshape your understanding of aging, motivation, and what it truly means to thrive over time.
Let’s ditch the lab coat and get real about living longer AND stronger.
Check out Dr. Filippo Ongaro, MD Youtube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@DrFilippoOngaro
02:00 Exploring Biohacking and Longevity
03:08 The Importance of Healthspan vs. Lifespan
06:11 Principles of a Good Healthspan
09:06 Habit Change and Behavioral Science
11:49 Creating a Supportive Environment for Health
15:08 Lessons from Astronauts and Aging
20:00 Motivating Change in Health Behaviors
30:05 The Future of Longevity and Healthspan
Together, they unpack the modern obsession with “gut health,” the hype around the microbiome, and why everyone from wellness influencers to scientists seems to think the key to longevity lies somewhere between our mouth and anus. But this conversation goes far deeper than digestion—it explores how what we eat, how we live, and even how we think shapes our gut and, in turn, our overall health.
Dr. Parikh blends science with relatable insights from his life as both a physician and a dad, sharing how early childhood experiences, diet, sleep, stress, and even how we talk about “tummy troubles” influence lifelong health. The discussion spans from the everyday nuisances of bloating and irritable bowel syndrome to the more serious red flags of inflammatory bowel disease—and the grey area in between that frustrates so many patients (and doctors).
You’ll hear about why our guts become more sensitive with age, why sugary drinks can wreak havoc on our internal ecosystem, and how something as simple as portion control—or a good night’s sleep—can dramatically improve digestive wellness. Along the way, Dr. Bonta and Dr. Parikh also challenge the commercialization of gut health, questioning whether expensive probiotic supplements or social media trends actually stand up to science.
If you’ve ever wondered what your microbiome is really doing, whether yogurt is worth the hype, or why your stomach isn’t as resilient as it used to be, this episode will give you the clarity you’ve been craving.
Time to get real about gut health and digest the science while crapping out the myth.
Listen to The Gut Doctor Podcast by Dr. Neil Parikh, MD
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-gut-doctor/id1605040922
03:35 The Role of Gut Microbiome in Health
09:16 The Importance of Gut Flora and Its Functions
17:45 Dietary Choices and Their Impact on Gut Health
21:08 Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Spectrum of Symptoms
30:23 Distinguishing Between IBS and Inflammatory Bowel Disease
34:44 Current Understanding of Inflammatory Bowel Disease
37:09 Practical Dietary Advice for Gut Health
1. Gut health is a broad term that encompasses various aspects of digestive well-being, often misunderstood even by medical professionals.
2. The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in digestion and overall health, but our understanding of it is still evolving.
3. Lifestyle factors such as diet, sleep, and mental health significantly impact gut health and can influence conditions like irritable bowel syndrome.
4. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to gut health; individual experiences and symptoms can vary widely.
5. Probiotics and fermented foods like yogurt can support gut health, but their effectiveness may vary depending on individual conditions.
6. Understanding the difference between normal digestive discomfort and symptoms that require medical attention is key to managing gut health effectively.
7. The conversation around gut health is becoming more open, allowing for better management and understanding of digestive issues.
8. Cultural and dietary habits, such as those observed in European "blue zones," may offer insights into maintaining a healthy gut.
9. The relationship between gut health and other conditions, such as autoimmune diseases, is an area of ongoing research and interest.
10. Personalized approaches to diet and lifestyle can help manage and improve gut health over time
4. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to gut health; individual experiences and symptoms can vary widely.
5. Probiotics and fermented foods like yogurt can support gut health, but their effectiveness may vary depending on individual conditions.
6. Understanding the difference between normal digestive discomfort and symptoms that require medical attention is key to managing gut health effectively.
7. The conversation around gut health is becoming more open, allowing for better management and understanding of digestive issues.
8. Cultural and dietary habits, such as those observed in European "blue zones," may offer insights into maintaining a healthy gut.
9. The relationship between gut health and other conditions, such as autoimmune diseases, is an area of ongoing research and interest.
10. Personalized approaches to diet and lifestyle can help manage and improve gut health over time.
In this insightful episode, Dr. Mark Bonta, Dr. Sebastian Mafeld, and Dr. Cassidy Preston delve into the intersection of mindset and medicine. They explore how principles from sports psychology can enhance medical practice, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, presence, and continuous learning. Through personal anecdotes and professional experiences, they discuss the transformative power of coaching and the potential for integrating these strategies into medical education. Join us for a thought-provoking conversation that challenges traditional paradigms and inspires a new approach to healthcare.
Our Guests :
Dr. Sebastian Mafeld, Vascular & Interventional Radiologist.
Cassidy Preston, PhD in Sport & Performance Psychology.
https://cepmindset.com/
In this conversation, Cassidy Preston and Dr. Mark Bonta explore the concept of alter egos in performance psychology, emphasizing the playful and imaginative aspects of creating an alter ego to enhance confidence and performance. They discuss various unique alter egos adopted by athletes, the importance of confidence in high-pressure situations, and the necessity of reflection in personal and professional growth. Cassidy outlines a three-phase approach to performance mindset, focusing on preparation, execution, and reflection, while also introducing a powerful analogy of jumping off a cliff to illustrate the importance of letting go and trusting one's training.
Key Takeaways
Chapters:
03:11 From Athlete to Coach: A Personal Journey
06:04 The Evolution of Mental Skills Training in Sports
08:55 Measuring Success: The Mindset First Approach
11:51 The Alter Ego Effect: Transforming Performance
14:58 The Journey Over the Result: Finding Meaning in Performance
19:11 The Playful Imagination in Performance Psychology
22:16 Exploring Unique Alter Egos in Athletes
24:31 Confidence and Behavioral Change Through Alter Egos
26:00 An Inside-Out Approach to Performance
30:00 The Three Phases of Performance Mindset
32:55 The Cliff Jump Analogy for Letting Go
35:07 The Importance of Reflection in Performance
39:14 Developing a Mindset-Based Approach to Performance
This week's episode will be with Dr. Bijaj Patel a nephrologist who has done amazing work developing transitional dialysis centers.
DISCLAMER >>>>>> The Ditch Lab Coat podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not serve as a substitute for professional medical services such as medicine or nursing. It does not establish a doctor/patient relationship, and the use of information from the podcast or linked materials is at the user's own risk. The content does not aim to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and users should promptly seek guidance from healthcare professionals for any medical conditions.Drawing on his unique experience in both military special operations and high performance coaching, Brian unpacks the surprising similarities between the worlds of medicine and the military: relentless stress, long hours, a drive to serve, and the ever-present risk of burnout. Together, Dr. Bonta and Brian dive into actionable, science-backed strategies for stress management, sleep recovery, and resilience—techniques inspired by elite athletes, fighter pilots, and creative professionals, but tailored to the real challenges healthcare workers face every day.
This isn’t just a conversation about burnout or self-care. It’s about honoring the trust society places in clinicians—and learning how to show up at our best for our patients, our teams, and our own families. Whether you’re a seasoned doctor, a new resident, or just someone chasing your own version of peak performance, today’s episode is packed with practical wisdom to help you thrive in high-pressure environments.
Plug in for a thought-provoking, entertaining, and genuinely useful discussion that just might change the way you approach your work—and your life.
Episode Lessons03:58 – The Alchemist: Lessons for Medical Training
09:20 – Military Fiction's Team-Based Allure
12:23 – Healthcare and Military Similarities
15:24 – Trust and Nuance in Medicine
17:06 – Sleep: The Key to Performance
20:18 – Recovery Beyond Medicine
25:07 – Evolving Healthcare Performance Strategies
29:01 – Science-Based Human Performance Tools
30:36 – Real-Time Solutions to Burnout
33:13 – Clinician-Led Decisions vs. Wellness Trends
38:08 – Decline of Team Spirit in Healthcare
39:14 – Unlocking Personal Performance Tools
44:06 – Redefining Healthcare Performance Norms
47:30 – Fostering Sustainable Peak Performance
This week, we tackle a problem plaguing healthcare systems across Canada (and beyond): the painfully long wait times to see a dermatologist, especially when it comes to skin cancer. Our guest is Mike Druhan, President of Dermatology Services at MedX Health. Mike is on a mission to save lives by closing the gap between a suspicious mole and a potentially life-saving diagnosis.
Together, Dr. Bonta and Mike explore the bottlenecks of Canadian healthcare, the trust required for new technologies to be accepted, and the real-world journey of bringing evidence-based digital solutions—like secure skin imaging and teledermatology—to market. You'll hear the candid realities behind innovation in medicine, the hurdles of building clinician confidence, and why access—not just technology—can be the biggest lifesaver of all.
Plus, Mike shares eye-opening stories from the field, including how a routine golf outing and a sharp eye led to an early melanoma diagnosis that made all the difference for a patient. If you’ve ever wondered why game-changing ideas in medicine can take so long to become reality—or how technology can help us fight diseases hiding in plain sight—this conversation is for you.
Plug in, enjoy, and get ready for a deep dive into the art and science of making innovation practical, trustworthy, and patient-centered.
Episode Highlights
03:59 – Canadian Healthcare Access Challenges
09:40 – Dermatology Digital Patient Platform Development
13:25 – Trust Barriers in Healthcare Innovation
15:57 – Dermatology Investment Collaboration Insights
19:05 – Prioritizing Urgent Pathology Reports
22:54 – Dermatology: Ownership and Patient Insights
24:19 – Dynamic Approach to Skin Cancer Tracking
28:38 – Early Detection through Stool Testing
32:56 – Canada's Dermatology Shortage and Insurance Solutions
33:38 – Predictive Analytics in Workplace Safety
37:07 – AI-Assisted Skin Cancer Detection
42:15 – Human Error vs. AI Expectations
45:47 – AI Enhancing Medical Diagnostics
46:46 – Trusting Emerging Healthcare Technologies
Together, they challenge the misconceptions around virtual medicine, exploring how digital innovation is not just a convenient alternative but often a superior solution for patients who need fast, efficient, and ongoing medical attention. From navigating Canada’s complex healthcare policies to leveraging AI and Bluetooth-enabled devices, Dr. Cherniak shares his journey as a physician-entrepreneur working to make healthcare more accessible—whether you’re managing blood pressure from your living room or urgently treating poison ivy without a trip across town.
Tune in as we unravel the myths of hands-on-only healthcare, the future possibilities of remote diagnostics and procedures, and what it will take for medicine to truly enter the 21st century. If you’re curious about how virtual care is changing the patient-doctor relationship, cutting through red tape, and building a compassionate, tech-savvy future, this is an episode you can’t miss.
(https://www.linkedin.com)
(http://rocketdoctor.io/)
1 – Virtual Care Is Effective – Virtual healthcare can match or even surpass in-person care for many conditions, especially when accessibility is an issue.
2 – Breaking Down Healthcare Barriers – Virtual care improves access for patients struggling with long waits or limited transportation to clinics.
3 – Episodic vs. Chronic Care Needs – Healthcare isn’t just for chronic patients; episodic care can be efficiently managed through modern virtual models.
4 – Innovation Born From Necessity – Rocket Doctor’s creation was driven by gaps in primary care, especially for those without family doctors.
5 – Team-Based Medical Support – Virtual platforms enable teams of physicians to support each other, ensuring continuity even when one doctor is away.
6 – Navigating Bureaucracy and Policy – Different provinces and health systems determine how virtual care can be provided and reimbursed, affecting implementation.
7 – Seeing Beyond Clinic Walls – Virtual visits provide unique insights into patients’ home and social environments, revealing valuable context for care.
8 – Tech Empowers Doctors and Patients – Electronic records, AI tools, and Bluetooth devices streamline tasks, allowing more focus on patient care and faster follow-up.
9 – Busting Medical Tradition Myths – Not every visit needs physical examination; much required care can be accurately delivered without in-person touch.
10 – Envisioning Healthcare’s Future – Real integration of AI, seamless records sharing, and patient-driven portals will further revolutionize how care is delivered virtually.
Want me to bold all the lesson titles for consistency, or keep only the last one bold as the highlight?
00:00 – Medical Podcast Disclaimer
05:28 – Reimagining Virtual Care in Canada
08:04 – Canadian Tech-Driven Medical Practice
11:54 – Bureaucratic Challenges in Healthcare
13:39 – Embracing Virtual Healthcare
19:53 – Virtual Care: Beneficial vs. In-Person
20:54 – Canada's Acute vs. Preventative Care
26:14 – Virtual Care Evolution 2019
30:08 – Healthcare Innovation and Streamlining
32:59 – Home Ultrasound Study for Pneumonia
35:40 – Virtual Care: Medicine's Evolution
37:42 – Science Skepticism Podcast Promo
Together, Dr. Bonta and Dr. Lobo break down the reality behind those flashy ads and glossy casino images, peeling back the curtain on the true costs of problem gambling. They explore not just the personal financial and mental fallout, but the ripple effects that devastate families, drive up debt, worsen mental health struggles, and even intersect with substance use disorders. As gambling apps, sports betting, and even crypto-trading continue to blur the lines between entertainment and addiction, the doctors unpack why so many young adults—and increasingly, teens—find themselves hooked.
Dr. Lobo shares practical insights for recognizing gambling problems, supporting loved ones, and opening honest conversations with kids. Most importantly, they question whether the billions gained in gambling revenue are truly worth the social and health costs we’re only beginning to acknowledge.
If you’ve ever wondered what really drives gambling addiction, how to spot it, or what responsible action looks like for individuals and society, you won’t want to miss this eye-opening, evidence-based conversation. Let’s ditch the lab coat and get real about gambling in our modern age.
Episode Lessons03:21 – Addiction's Evolving Forms: Gambling Alert
07:08 – COVID-19's Impact on Gambling Behavior
11:56 – Gambling's Mental and Physical Toll
13:48 – Accessibility Fuels Gambling Issues
18:03 – Teens, Gambling, and Sports Obsession
22:25 – Problem Gambling's Significant Impact
25:36 – Gambling Disorders and Mental Health
29:18 – iGaming Self-Exclusion & Support
30:30 – Supporting Families with Addicted Loved Ones
36:00 – Modern Gambling: Signs and Challenges
39:02 – Gambling and Risk Awareness Conversation
42:33 – Understanding Moderation and Gambling Risks
45:23 – Ethics of Gambling Expansion
47:03 – Cautionary Insights on Gambling Apps
After her own sudden and life-altering health collapse, Dr. Driscoll found herself deep in the world of dysautonomia—a group of disorders affecting the autonomic nervous system, responsible for all those automatic functions in our bodies we don’t usually have to think about. Finding few answers from doctors, and confronted by a system that too often shuns “invisible illnesses,” Dr. Driscoll became her own medical detective, pioneering research into conditions like Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) and unlocking innovative approaches to treatment.
In this eye-opening conversation, Dr. Driscoll and Dr. Bonta tackle the complex, often misunderstood world of autonomic dysfunction, the science behind “mystery illnesses,” and the frustrating gaps in our medical knowledge. From the lived experience of being a patient who was told “it’s all in your head,” to developing new therapeutics and advocating for others, Dr. Driscoll’s story is as inspiring as it is informative.
If you’ve ever struggled with unexplained symptoms, felt dismissed by the healthcare system, or just want to understand the evolving science behind these often-invisible disorders—this episode is for you.
Plug in for a candid, practical, and hope-filled discussion that challenges the boundaries of what medicine knows today and explores the frontier where suffering finally meets science.
Episode Highlights
04:15 – Post-COVID Dysautonomia Insights
07:12 – Invisible Illnesses and Tech Misguidance
13:07 – Central Sensitization and Unexplained Symptoms
16:44 – Nicotine Patch Stimulates Vagus Nerve
20:01 – Navigating Illness and Predatory Healthcare
20:51 – Navigating Autonomic Dysfunction Treatments
26:03 – Bridging Medical Knowledge Gaps
29:38 – Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension Insights
31:25 – Inflammation's Impact on Heart and Vision
36:07 – Chronic Illness: The Domino Effect
41:18 – Questioning Symptom-Driven Treatments
44:22 – Unseen Illness: Recognition Grows
45:26 – Advancements in Autonomic Dysfunction Treatments
49:06 – Championing Long Covid Research
Dr. Wright brings a unique blend of medical expertise and personal experience to the conversation, sharing hard-won insights and practical tools that go beyond the surface-level “self-care” advice.
From the silent lessons learned in medical school anatomy labs to the coping strategies (and comical dinner table conversations) that help healthcare workers weather the toughest shifts, Mark and Judy unpack what it really means to build resilience in high-stress environments.
But these lessons aren’t just for doctors and nurses. Whether you’re managing a team, running a classroom, or simply juggling daily life, you’ll find actionable advice—from five-minute reset techniques to the importance of building a support network before you desperately need one.
Get ready for a candid, insightful, and wide-ranging conversation that will challenge you to rethink your approach to stress, burnout, and what it means to truly look after yourself at work and beyond.
06:02 – Adapting to Cadaver Work
09:05 – Healthcare Workers' Emotional Challenges
10:03 – Emotional Detachment and Coping Mechanisms
13:16 – Debriefing's Role in Mental Health
17:02 – Early Healthcare Career Challenges
19:44 – Balancing Emotions in Medical Training
25:50 – Work-Life Interconnection Dynamics
29:33 – Importance of Building a Support System
30:18 – Integrating Self-Care with Work
34:30 – Exploring Diverse Medical Careers
39:30 – Prioritize Individualized Self-Care
40:54 – Authentic Self-Care Beyond Mani-Pedis
43:29 – Self-Care for Post-Work Recharge
47:40 – Workplace Energy and Self-Assessment
51:10 – Grounding Techniques for Resilience
Instead of chasing the latest biohacks and trendy do’s, Dr. Bonta shares his take on the “don’ts” that could make the biggest difference to our health: don’t load your pantry with ultra-processed foods, don’t rely on fad diets without respecting your biology, don’t ignore your mental resilience, don’t keep screens in your bedroom, and don’t underestimate the lifelong dangers of substance use—especially alcohol. Drawing from fascinating past guests and peppered with real-life anecdotes, this episode is packed with practical, evidence-based advice that’s more about avoiding pitfalls than perfecting routines.
So plug in as Dr. Bonta looks back, revisits his birthday reflections, and gives us a no-nonsense breakdown of the habits (and substances) to ditch for a healthier, happier life.
1. Courage to Lead Change — Courage is essential to make necessary healthcare changes; everyone knows what to do, but few are willing to go first.
2. Unlearning as Growth — Success requires letting go of outdated practices, even those we've clung to for decades.
3. Nurses Leading Change — Nurses are often the ones who recognize and push for better patient care, even in the face of resistance.
4. The Role of Clinical Experts — Real-time support from experts can turn ideas into action and prevent regression under pressure.
5. Listening to the Team — Culture change starts with listening to those on the frontlines and empowering their voice.
6. A Better Way to Wean Ventilators — Traditional weaning methods can fail; a spontaneous breathing trial may be more effective.
7. The Importance of Protocols — A clear process protects patients from inconsistency and ensures evidence-based care.
8. Sedation’s Downside — Sedation can cause harm; it’s time to shift from automatic comfort to mindful, minimal use.
9. The Awakening Moment — A pivotal story about witnessing patients walking while intubated—and the shift it sparked.
10. Belief Before Buy-In — Seeing isn't always believing. Sometimes you must believe there's a better way before you ever see it.
11. What’s Possible in Patient Recovery — Awake and mobile patients can achieve more than we think—even while critically ill.
12. Learning From Others — Growth often begins by learning from those who’ve already done what we thought was impossible.
13. Walking While Intubated — Real-world proof that mobility while ventilated isn't just a theory—it’s being done.
14. Staff Impact and Transformation — Watching patients improve has a lasting impact on the staff and the culture of care.
15. Changing ICU Culture — Creating an awake and walking ICU demands a mindset shift and persistent leadership.
16. Making It the New Normal — What was once considered extraordinary can become standard with the right support and structure.
17. The Ripple Effect — Positive change in one unit can influence an entire hospital—and beyond.
01:00 — Podcast Reflections on Lifespan and Healthcare
04:59 — Living Well: Do's vs. Don'ts
08:33 — Avoid Junk, Embrace Healthy Eating
11:51 — Hormones, Dieting, and Healthy Habits
16:45 — Dangers of Ultra-Processed Foods
18:56 — Prioritize Sleep: Limit Bedroom Screens
23:43 — Breath Work and CBT for Anxiety
27:26 — Optimal Health: Focus on Don'ts
28:38 — Alcohol and Substance Use Dangers
31:43 — Reflections on Healthier Living
Kali shares her journey from a nurse in a pioneering ICU—where awake, mobile, intubated patients were the norm—to a world where comatose ventilator patients are the expectation. She unpacks the hidden harms of automatic sedation, sharing both eye-opening research and the heart-wrenching stories of ICU survivors who left with trauma, cognitive struggles, and fractured lives.
Dr. Bonta and Kali explore how culture, habit, and outdated beliefs have shaped critical care—and challenge us all to rethink what’s possible. Is it really safer, easier, or kinder to keep patients sedated? Or can presence, mobility, and human connection transform not just survival, but recovery?
Get ready to question what you thought you knew about the ICU, discover what’s already possible in some hospitals, and hear a call to action for compassionate, evidence-based change. If you work in healthcare—or might ever need it—this is a conversation you can’t afford to miss. Let’s ditch the lab coat and reimagine patient care, one episode at a time.
Episode Highlights05:14 — Challenges of Mechanical Ventilation
06:57 — ICU Nursing: Breathing Tube Walks
10:14 — ICU Norms Challenged: Breathing Tubes
13:16 — Pioneering Awake, Mobile Patient Care
19:11 — Awake and Walking ICU Initiative
22:06 — Rethinking Hospital DVT Practices
25:42 — Sedation Considerations Before Intubation
27:20 — Reducing Delirium in ICU Care
32:57 — Sedation: Not Just Laughing Gas
36:24 — Rounding Culture and ICU Challenges
39:08 — Improving ICU Care: ABCDEF Protocol
41:23 — Rethinking Patient Sedation Practices
44:14 — Improving ICU Patient Care
47:38 — Revolutionizing Awake ICU Care
Join us as we dive into Dr. Haymerle’s powerful story: from the grueling demands of 14-hour cancer surgeries and the accidental discovery of high-functioning, trust-based teams, to the moment when his own department’s spirit collapsed under uncertainty. We’ll explore why human factors like psychological safety and simple acts of gratitude can impact patient outcomes just as much as surgical skill.
Dr. Haymerle takes us inside the often-overlooked world of healthcare team dynamics, revealing why he left the operating room behind to fix something even more delicate than anatomy: the fractured culture that shapes how care is delivered.
If you’ve ever wondered whether culture truly matters in medicine—or how speaking up, vulnerability, and a heartfelt “thank you” might just save a life—this episode will stay with you long after you listen. Tune in for a heartfelt, evidence-based conversation about what really keeps healthcare teams—and their patients—thriving.
1. Team Spirit Transforms Outcomes — Cohesive, trusting teams dramatically improve surgical efficiency and patient safety, sometimes reducing surgery times by hours.
2. Culture Changes Everything — Good workplace culture is just as critical as skill—loss of hope or toxic environments erode performance and morale.
3. Technical Skill Isn’t Enough — High technical mastery won’t guarantee success if team dynamics and relationships are neglected or dysfunctional.
4. Vulnerability Builds Excellence — When team members can safely show weaknesses and ask for help, everyone benefits, including patient outcomes.
5. Money Isn’t the Motivator — Financial rewards alone don’t solve morale or performance issues; intrinsic motivators and appreciation matter more.
6. Gratitude Is Powerful Medicine — Simple, genuine thank-yous are rare but transformative, fueling motivation, engagement, and mutual respect in healthcare teams.
7. Speaking Up Saves Lives — Creating environments where all voices are heard—regardless of hierarchy—prevents errors and fosters innovation.
8. Change Requires Leadership Buy-In — Cultural shifts succeed only when leaders acknowledge problems and model openness to feedback and improvement.
9. Early Intervention Matters — Recognizing “the spiral” of team dysfunction early and addressing it promptly can prevent long-term damage and staff turnover.
10. Healthcare Must Evolve — Emphasizing the human side of medicine—connection, gratitude, honest conversation—represents the future of safe, effective healthcare.
03:58 — Career Shift in Healthcare Path
06:41 — From Timid to Skilled Surgeon
10:12 — Human Factors Impact Medical Outcomes
14:33 — Creating a High-Performing Team
19:10 — Building Trust for Departmental Progress
22:37 — Surgical Trainee Silence Dilemma
23:26 — Breaking Hierarchies: Encouraging Open Dialogue
26:56 — Healthcare Organizations’ Capacity for Change
32:49 — Austrian Healthcare's Resistance to Change
34:26 — Revolutionizing Healthcare Through Change
37:54 — Targeting Female Leaders in Healthcare
Join host Dr. Mark Bonta as he sits down with Dr. Kevin Tracey, neurosurgeon, president and CEO of the Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, and a pioneer in the world of bioelectronic medicine. Dr. Tracey’s breakthrough research has shown us that the vagus nerve is far more than just a conduit for signals—it’s a key player in managing inflammation, regulating our immune system, and maybe even shaping the future of medicine.
In this conversation, you’ll explore the mind-bending complexity of the nervous system, discover how cutting-edge science is redefining how we treat diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and long Covid, and learn how a tiny chip implanted in the neck might one day replace whole classes of immune-suppressing drugs. Dr. Tracey shares metaphors, straight talk about medical myths, and a vision for a future where reprogramming the body’s reflexes could offer relief to millions.
Get ready for a journey that’s equal parts awe-inspiring and practical, as we unpack the true potential (and real-world considerations) of harnessing the vagus nerve’s power. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, a science nerd, or just someone searching for new answers, this episode invites you to see medicine in a whole new way.
Resources : ( https://feinstein.northwell.edu/ )
Episode Highlights6:25 — Exploring Nervous System Complexity
9:08 — Vagus Nerve Controls Inflammation
11:05 — Vagus Nerve: Brain Signals Control Inflammation
15:45 — Nervous System's Role in Immunity
20:43 — Understanding Your Vagus Nerves
23:25 — Vagus Nerve Health and Research
25:12 — Vagus Nerve Stimulation Insights
29:36 — Vagus Nerve Stimulator: Inflammation Therapy
32:13 — Neurotransmitter Effects on Cytokine Production
38:22 — Minimizing Nerve Damage in Surgery
39:30 — Vagus Nerve Stimulation Benefits
43:42 — Exploring Vagus Nerve Mysteries
46:42 — Vagus Nerve Stimulation for Autoimmune Diseases
50:52 — Cold Plunges & Bioelectrical Future
Dr. Morra breaks down the four pillars of healthcare—catastrophic, chronic disease, episodic, and preventative—and reveals why technology and innovation are set to overhaul not only how care is delivered, but who’s really in control. Together, they discuss why it's easier to buy alcohol and gamble than it is to book a physical exam, what it takes to nudge a population toward better health, and how Canadian-made solutions like virtual triage and optimized healthcare “front doors” could change the game.
But most of all, this episode is about who will drive real change: not the policymakers or administrators, but people—patients, citizens, and entrepreneurs—who are tired of waiting, ready to take control, and brave enough to disrupt the system from the outside in. Whether you work in medicine, depend on it, or just want a preview of where our healthcare is headed, you’ll leave with big ideas and plenty of hope for what’s possible next. Plug in, listen up, and—as always—question everything.
1. Courage to Lead Change — Courage is essential to make necessary healthcare changes; everyone knows what to do, but few are willing to go first.
2. Rise of AI in Care — AI surpasses traditional care in planned prevention, aggregating biomarkers and histories for optimized personal health plans.
3. Healthcare’s Four Categories — Understanding catastrophic, chronic, episodic, and preventative care clarifies where innovation and resources should be focused.
4. Self-Directed Health Solutions — Technology empowers individuals to manage their healthcare directly, sometimes bypassing traditional systems entirely.
5. Misaligned Incentives — Payment structures incentivize episodic and acute care over preventive or chronic care management, perpetuating system inefficiencies.
6. Public vs Private Innovation — System transformation will likely come from private sector innovators, not within public institutions mired in political and structural inertia.
7. Danger of Easy Vices — Society makes harmful behaviors like gambling and alcohol dangerously accessible, contributing significantly to declining population health.
8. Canadian Healthcare Renaissance — Canada stands on the brink of a health innovation renaissance, with technology and empowered citizens leading the way.
6:10 — AI's Role in Episodic Care
9:32 — Optimizing Healthcare Access with AI
10:25 — Self-Care Revolution in Healthcare
14:51 — Canadian Healthcare Access Challenges
18:37 — Technology's Impact on Business Models
21:31 — Predictive Health Tools: Behavior Impact?
25:47 — "Courageous Leadership Challenges"
28:12 — Disrupted Pay Model in Healthcare
30:41 — Public vs. Private Industry Dynamics
35:53 — Healthcare System's Struggles and Growth
38:36 — "Virtual Hallway Revolutionizing Healthcare"
41:26 — Embracing Disruptive Health Technology
44:17 — Disruption Sparks Hopeful Healthcare Change