170. Jill Pepper on Eastern vs. Modern Medicine

Wellness expert and author Heather Grzych interviews Jill Pepper, CEO of Ozer Health, for a thought-provoking conversation about how the U.S. health insurance system really works—from the inside out. Together, they explore why so many Americans feel frustrated or failed by Western medicine, the critical gaps in the system, and why Eastern and natural medicines like Ayurveda often sit on the outskirts of mainstream care. They dive into what makes someone trust a healthcare provider, why trying holistic modalities can feel strange at first, and how to increase access to and adoption of natural healing approaches. It's a powerful dialogue between two women who have navigated both conventional and alternative medicine industries—and are passionate about transforming how we care for our bodies and minds. Jill Pepper, CEO at Ozer Health, with over 18 years in healthcare and employer wellness solutions, has extensive experience in western group insurance for large employer groups, wellness program sales, retention, and strategic distribution. Previously serving in leadership roles, she managed key relationships with employer groups, focusing on traditional western insurance, wellness programs' strategy and engagement and customer relationship management. For the past 15 months, Jill has directed her expertise toward launching The Ozer Health app, a digital platform aimed at delivering an accessible, holistic health solution that marries western and eastern practices. Her background also includes consulting services and advisory roles, such as her contributions to Impact100 Nashville board, where she continues to engage with healthcare innovation and community health initiatives.  Heather Grzych, ADLC is an American author and expert in Ayurvedic medicine who was formerly the head of product development for a multi-billion-dollar health insurance company. She currently serves as the president of the National Ayurvedic Medical Association and is part of the faculty at Mount Madonna Institute College of Ayurveda. Heather's first book, The Ayurvedic Guide to Fertility, has sold thousands of copies worldwide, and her writing has been featured in Sports Illustrated, Yoga Journal, and the Sunday Independent. Her podcast, Wisdom of the Body, holds an average rating of 5 stars on Apple Podcasts and is in the top 3% of podcasts globally.  Connect with Heather: Learn more at www.heathergrzych.com   Instagram.com/heathergrzych Facebook.com/grzychheather   Read the first six pages of The Ayurvedic Guide to Fertility for FREE: https://www.heathergrzych.com   Connect with Heather to balance your health with Ayurveda: https://www.heathergrzych.com/book-online