Episodes
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Ep. 64 End of the Year Round Table Part 2 Women’s Health Hormones and the Power of Reinvention
In Part 2 of our end of year round table, we sit down with Optimize U women’s health providers Laura Chastain, Amanda Shelton, and Ashley Johnson for a meaningful conversation on thyroid health, PCOS, perimenopause, menopause, and what it looks like to support women through every stage of…
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Ep. 63 End of Year Roundtable: TRT, Peptides, Veterans, and the Future of Preventative Care::
Welcome to Part 1 of our End of Year Special at the Optimized Health Podcast. In this episode our male providers Josh Porter, Matt Hughes, and Justin Edwards sit down together to share how they each discovered their passion for hormones, preventative care, and helping people reclaim their lives....
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Ep.62 Mindset, Motivation & Purpose: How to Redefine Success with Pastor Matty Finley
Have you ever wondered what your true purpose in life is , or why motivation fades when the “big moments” are behind you? In this episode, Pastor Matty Finley from Silverdale Baptist joins The Optimized Health Podcast to talk about mindset, and how the way you think can transform your health,...
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Ep.61: Chiropractic Care: Why Prevention Beats Pain | With John Fee of Key to Change Wellness
Do you wait until you’re in pain before seeing a chiropractor? In this episode of The Optimized Health Podcast, we sit down with John Fee, owner of Key to Change Wellness & Chiropractic, to talk about why chiropractic care isn’t just about fixing pain, it’s about preventing it. John shares how…
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Ep.60 "Demystifying PCOS: What Every Woman Needs to Know"
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects millions of women—yet it remains one of the most misunderstood hormone conditions. In this episode, Laura Chastain, NP, sits down with Dr. Catherine Needham, PharmD—known as @CycleBalancedDoc—to unpack everything a woman needs to know about PCOS: from...
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Ep.59 “Rethinking Dentistry: How Holistic Approaches Are Transforming Oral and Systemic Health”
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Pranav “Dr. K” Kukreja, a Franklin, TN-based dentist who’s challenging conventional thinking through biological and alternative dentistry. Dr. K shares how modern science and ancient wisdom intersect in the mouth—where oral health reflects total-body…
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Ep. 58 Beyond the Scale: Conversation in Metabolic Health
In this episode, Laura and Mandy discuss both surgical and nonsurgical techniques with Dr. Chris Sanborn, bariatric surgeon and the Director of the Erlanger Metabolic Center. Beyond the Scale dives deep into the evolving science and solutions for weight management. This discussion unpacks the...
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Ep. 57 “Walking the Talk: How we Test, Train, and Optimize for Longevity”:
“Walking the Talk: How We Test, Train, and Optimize for Longevity”: ⸻ In this episode, Josh and Mandy pull back the curtain and share their own personal health journeys. From VO₂ max testing to resistance training routines and longevity tools, they discuss what’s working, what they’re learning…
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Ep. 56 Lessons for Life From Dr. Susan Raschal
In this episode, Mandy Livingston and Laura Chastain sit down with Dr. Susan Raschal, a specialist in allergy, asthma, and immunology, to explore the personal journey and professional insights that shaped her career. She opens up about the obstacles that nearly prevented her from becoming a...
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Ep. 55 Your Labs Are “Normal”… But You’re Still Sick? with Andrea Mangrum
In this episode of the Optimized Health Podcast, we sit down with Andrea Mangrum, founder of The Bloodwork Analyst and a board-certified Natural Wellness Practitioner. Andrea specializes in Functional Blood Chemistry Analysis, helping people uncover what their standard lab results might really be...
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Ep. 54 “In your Genes: Unraveling the truth about Genetic Counseling”
What is genetic counseling--and what is it not? In this episode, we sit down with Madison Thomason, Certified Genetic Counselor, and patient advocate, Toria Williams, to demystify the field and explain how it empowers individuals and families through education, risk assessment, and support. Our...
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Ep. 53 “Retire Strong: Building Wealth and Wellness with Garry Thurman”
In this episode Josh and Mandy sit down with financial advisor and author Garry Thurman to talk about his upcoming book Retire Strong- a bold take on preparing not just for your finances, but you health for the road ahead. They dive into how optimal health is a key investment strategy, why life...
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Ep. 52 “Built Different: Cutting Through the Fitness Hype with IFBB Pro Matt Davis”
In this episode, Mandy Livingston sits down with IFBB Pro and her personal trainer, Matt Davis, for a no-nonsense conversation about fitness, hype, and what actually works. We dive into the myths circulating on social media—like how long you really need to rest between sets, whether creatine is a...
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Ep. 51 “Skin in the Game: Skincare for Every Age with Lindsey & Eva Bright”
In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Lindsey Bright—founder of Flawless Aesthetics, Nurse Practitioner, and skincare expert—and her 11-year-old daughter Eva Bright, a budding entrepreneur with her own skincare line for young girls. Together, they share how skincare is evolving to start...
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Ep. 50 The Gut/Brain Connection: Getting to the Root of it
Join us as we talk with Amber Conway, Certified Nutrition Practitioner with Nutrition World. Amber discusses how she was led into her field by her own health journey. She discusses the importance of the gut-brain connection and the role the guy plays in our overall health. She then goes deeper…
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Ep.49 “Testosterone on Trial: Debunking the Prostate Cancer Myth with Dr Abraham Morgentaler”
Is testosterone truly the villain in prostate cancer, or have we been misled for decades? In this episode of Optimized Health, Josh Porter sits down with world-renowned urologist and testosterone researcher Dr. Abraham Morgentaler to unravel one of the most persistent myths in medicine. They...
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Ep. 48 Mental Health and Hormones: A glimpse into connections of the brain and body
Mental health and hormones form a deep connection that can impact every area of our life. Neurological, hormonal, and emotional connections can deeply impact how we think, feel, and function. Join us and our guest, Karisa L. Kaye, Marriage and Family therapist, sex therapist, trauma and ART...
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Ep. 47 Ask me anything: Hormone Optimization, Longevity Hacks, and Controversial Health Trends Uncovered
In this special AMA (Ask Me Anything) episode, Josh Porter takes center stage to answer your burning questions about hormone optimization, longevity strategies, and the latest trends shaking up preventative medicine. From testosterone therapy and peptides to metabolic hacks that supercharge your...
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Ep. 46 Life Hacks with Ed Jones owner of Nutrition World
Join Mandy Livingston and Laura Chastain as we wrap up our series with Nutrition World featuring owner and founder, Ed Jones. Ed discusses his tried and true habits that help him to maintain his weight, prevent insulin resistance, and aid in his health lifestyle in order to create awareness and...
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Ep. 45 Nourishing Motherhood: Pregnancy, Postpartum & Breastfeeding with Cady Kuhlman
In this episode of Optimized Health, Mandy Livingston sits down with Cady Kuhlman, co-owner of Nutrition World, to explore the vital role of nutrition and holistic wellness during pregnancy, postpartum and breastfeeding. Cady shares her expertise on essential nutrients for both Mom and baby, safe...
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Ep. 44 Vaccines & Vitality: A Holistic Deep Dive with Adam Chauncey
Join us in this compelling episode of ‘Optimized Health’ as we sit down with Adam Chauncey, a nutrition coach from Nutrition World. We dive into the hot topic of vaccinations, exploring the evidence behind various vaccines and the schedules that guide them. With Adam’s holistic perspective, we...
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Ep. 43 Pressure Points: Rethinking Blood Pressure Medications with Dr Curt Dearing
Join Mandy Livingston and Laura Chastain and their guest Dr Curt Dearing, pharmacist with Nutrition World. They discuss issues around poly pharmacy in relation to blood pressure medication, simplifying treatment options and using more natural remedies to approach more optimal health.
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Ep. 42 Ed Jones shares his 40 years of Wisdom: Let’s talk Longevity and Optimal Health
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Ed Jones, founder of Nutrition World and pioneer in the health and wellness industry for over four decades. In this episode, Ed shares his expert insights and practical tips for achieving longevity in 2025. Discover the foundational pillars of optimal...
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Ep. 41 Midlife Mane: Tackling Hair Loss With Confidence
Join Mandy Livingston and Laura Chastain as local expert, Emily Brewer, DCNP, and owner of The Derm Center, explore the primary causes of midlife hair thinning, including hormonal imbalances like menopause, nutritional deficiencies, and medical conditions. We will also dive into treatment options...
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Ep. 40 Closing 2024 with a BANG!
In our final episode of 2024, Optimized Health reflects on this year’s breakthroughs in hormone research and reviews some of the most popular books on the topic. One of Optimize U Chattanooga’s medical providers and former military medic, Justin Edwards, shares his inspiring journey into the…
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Ep. 39 Here we grow again.
Optimize U is growing again. Meet Keisha Holcomb, NP, who will be practicing at Optimize U Cleveland. Keisha tells all about her background and passions for improving the health and wellness for both men and women in the Cleveland community.
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Ep. 38 Don’t go quietly into that midlife ladies.
Join Mandy Livingston and Laura Chastain as they have a discussion with Emily Griffith, owner of Brigade Athletic Club and Shannon Hamaker, somatic practitioner and midlife coach as we explore a new program they have launched based on the research of Dr Stacey Simms. This program focuses on women...
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Ep. 37 Building Strength, Building Health: A conversation with IFBB Pro Matt Davis
Join Mandy Livingston and Josh Porter as we sit down with Matt Davis, IFBB Pro and owner of Chattanooga's premier fitness facility, The Train Station. We explore the Make America Healthy campaign and dive deep into the science of muscle hypertrophy, resistance training, and strategies like...
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Ep. 36 Pelvic Health: Getting to the “Core” issues
Join Mandy Livingston and Laura Chastain as they talk with Guest Erin Westner from The Pelvic Method about mastering pelvic floor health.
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Ep. 35 Breaking Bread: The process and health benefits of milling grain into flower.
Join us as we explore the art, science and health benefits of milling organic wheat into flour for the perfect bread. Delve into the journey from field to flour, featuring guests Melissa White and Laura Porter exploring milling techniques and baking tips that highlight the benefits of using…
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Ep. 34 Mastering Physical Performance: Project 1's Approach to Youth and Adult Training
In this episode of Optimized Health, we dive into the world of perfomance training with Joe Cradle and Jeff Smith, the dynamic duo behind Project 1. These experts share their innovative approach to training both youth athletes and adults, focusing on the critical elements of dynamic warm-ups,...
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Ep. 33 Start where YOU are!
Fitness is for everyone. Guest Jessica Griffis
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Ep. 32 Deep Dive into Lab Draw.
In this episode we are discussing what labs are being taken and why around a hormone replacement perspective. With special guest Matt Hughes, Owner and PA at Optimize U Nashville.
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Ep: 31 Chill Out and Heat Up: Unlock the Power of Cold Plunge and Sauna Therapy
Dive into the transformative world of wellness as we explore the dynamic duo of Cold Plunge and Sauna therapy in this enlightening episode! Join Josh and Mandy as we uncover the science behind cold plunging and heat therapy, revealing how these ancient practices can enhance your physical and…
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Ep. 30 “Seeing Clearly: Dr. Troy White Unveils the Power of Neurolens Technology”
In this eye-opening episode, we sit down with Dr. Troy White, a renowned optometrist, to explore the revolutionary Neurolens technology. Dr. White delves into how Neurolens is transforming eye care by addressing eye misalignment and alleviating symptoms of digital eye strain. Listeners will gain...
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Ep # 29 You asked and we answered!
Listen as Josh and Mandy discuss the questions they get most about from both men and women around hormones and treatments.
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Ep # 28 Bodybuilding, Heavy Lifting and Pendulum Squats with special guests Austin and Sam Jenkins.
Interview with Iron HQ gym owners, Austin and Sam Jenkins as they share their story of launching Iron HQ and building a tribe around their brand and vision.
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Ep. # 27 Wives Know Best
Plagued with questions of identity, Jeremy Smith shares his journey of self discovery that leads him to find his biological father and become closer to the main influence of his life. Join in on this inspirational journey that continues to unfold.
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Ep #26 Spiritual Awakening through the eyes of a Physician
Interview with Dr Nate Hartgrove, owner of Hartgrove Medical. Dr Hartgrove gives us a look into his spiritual journey and how he incorporates spiritual health into his practice.
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Ep. #25 Interview with Bryan Johnson owner of Vital Life Medical Care
The journey from Sick Care to Health Care.
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Ep. #24 Nutrition vs. Menopause - Clara Luliano
Clara Luliano, dietitian and Owner of Nutriclarity, helps us be on the winning side by informing us on nutrition for menopausal women.
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Ep. #23 Conversation w/ Brandon Knight
Listen to our interview with Brandon on holistic support for gut health and the power of detoxification.
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Ep. #22 Deep Dive into Hyperbaric Therapy
We saw down with Brandon Jones, Owner of Oxygen Health Spa about how HBOT benefits patients patients with everything from muscle/structural issues to neurological problems.
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Ep. #21 Retrain Your Brain At Any Age
Stacey Breitmann from Pathways Neurofeedback talks about how we can retrain not only our brains, but also our children's brains. Everything from ADD and ADHD to Depression, Anxiety and spectrum disorders.
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Ep. #20 You THOUGHT you knew the benefits of CrossFit
CrossFit and beyond with Emily and Erik Griffith, Owners of CrossFit Brigade. Hosts: Josh Porter & Mandy Livingston
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Ep. #19 Understanding Fertility
We discuss PCOS issues, estrogen dominance and cycle charting with Catherine Needham. Hosts: Josh Porter & Mandy Livingston Guest: Catherine Needham, PharmD of Cycle Balance (catherineneedham.com)
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Ep. #18 Interview w/Joanna Poindexter, Owner of Fitness Lifestyle
Listen as we discuss a variety of fitness topics with local gym owner and registered nurse, Joanna Poindexter.
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Ep. #17 2023: What a year!
A look back at the hot topics and up to date information on Hormone and Therapies
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Ep. #16- Acupuncture Anyone
Understanding acupuncture and chinese medicine with Ariadni Spinali. Hosts: Josh Porter and Mandy Livingston
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Ep. #15 Oral vs. Transdermal Estrogen
Benefits of one over the other. Hosts: Josh Porter & Mandy Livingston