Tick Boot Camp

What if the greatest obstacle you ever faced became the very thing that inspired thousands of others? In this inspiring episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, Matt Sabatello sits down with Talan Yorn, an 18-year-old American Ninja Warrior competitor, Lyme disease advocate, public speaker, author, and founder of Lyme Ninja. Born with congenital Lyme disease, Talan has never known life without chronic illness. His journey has included years of debilitating symptoms, neurological complications, mold illness, multiple tick-borne co-infections, extensive treatment, and even spending years bedridden. Today, Talan is proving that healing is possible. Through determination, perseverance, and a relentless refusal to give up, he transformed his life from being too sick to attend school into competing on national television as an American Ninja Warrior while using his platform to inspire hope throughout the Lyme community. This episode is a powerful reminder that recovery is rarely linear—but with the right support, persistence, and belief, extraordinary things are possible. Meet Talan Yorn Talan Yorn is an American Ninja Warrior competitor, Lyme disease advocate, author, public speaker, stunt performer, ninja coach, and founder of Lyme Ninja. Diagnosed with congenital Lyme disease at just seven years old after years of unexplained illness, Talan has dedicated his life to raising awareness for Lyme disease while encouraging others facing chronic illness to never lose hope. Learn more at Lyme Ninja. Read his inspiring memoir, Overcome: A Lyme Patient's Journey to American Ninja Warrior. In This Episode Matt and Talan discuss: Growing up with congenital Lyme disease Receiving a childhood Lyme, Babesia, and Bartonella diagnosis after years of unanswered questions Living with PANS, neurological symptoms, and immune dysfunction The impact of mold illness on Lyme recovery IVIG, functional medicine, antibiotics, and long-term treatment Going from bedridden to competing on American Ninja Warrior Becoming "Lyme Ninja" Advocating for Lyme disease awareness nationwide Finding purpose through adversity Growing Up with Congenital Lyme Disease Because Talan contracted Lyme disease from his mother before birth, he never knew what it felt like to be healthy. Throughout his childhood he struggled with fatigue, joint pain, fevers, headaches, insomnia, vomiting, and difficulty walking while doctors repeatedly dismissed his symptoms as "growing pains." Everything changed after his mother was diagnosed by Lyme-literate physician Dr. Steven Harris, leading to Talan's own diagnosis at age seven. Finally having answers allowed his family to begin the long journey toward recovery. Talan reflects on what it was like growing up believing his symptoms were normal simply because he had never experienced life without Lyme disease. Watching other children run, play, and participate in sports while constantly battling pain and exhaustion shaped much of his childhood and fueled his determination to one day overcome the disease. Navigating Complex Lyme Disease Beyond physical symptoms, Talan discusses the profound neurological effects Lyme disease had on his life. Along with Lyme disease and multiple co-infections, he developed PANS (Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome), OCD, anxiety, insomnia, emotional dysregulation, and episodes of overwhelming rage that were later understood to be driven by neuroinflammation. His story offers an important reminder that Lyme disease can affect far more than the joints or muscles. In children especially, behavioral and psychiatric symptoms may be signs of underlying infection rather than isolated mental health conditions. To learn more about pediatric Lyme disease and PANS/PANDAS, listen to Dr. Somer DelSignore. Treatment, Remission, and Mold Illness Over the course of more than a decade, Talan pursued a comprehensive treatment approach that included antibiotics, herbal medicine, functional medicine, IVIG, immune support, nutritional therapies, mold detoxification, and more recently peptide therapy. After years of treatment, he experienced approximately six months of remission and finally enjoyed the active childhood he had always dreamed about. He played competitive baseball, built friendships, and discovered what life felt like without constant symptoms. Unfortunately, that progress came to a sudden halt after repeated exposure to mold-contaminated homes. The mold triggered a severe relapse, leaving Talan bedridden for nearly three years and forcing him to stop attending school. During this difficult period, IVIG became an important part of his recovery after doctors discovered significant immune dysfunction and extremely low white blood cell counts. Combined with removing mold exposure and continuing treatment, Talan slowly began rebuilding his health once again. For more discussions about mold illness and chronic Lyme disease, explore Tick Boot Camp's interview with Dr. Jill Carnahan. From Bedridden to American Ninja Warrior As Talan slowly regained his health, he returned to a dream he had carried since childhood—competing on American Ninja Warrior. Watching the show as a young boy inspired him to believe that ordinary people could overcome extraordinary obstacles. Years later, after spending nearly three years bedridden, he finally began training. Progress was slow. Every workout required careful pacing, and many training sessions were followed by days of recovery. Still, every small improvement represented another step away from illness and toward the life he wanted. After three years of dedicated training and competing in Ninja Warrior competitions around the country, Talan earned a spot on Season 17 of American Ninja Warrior, advancing to the semifinals. More importantly, his appearance introduced millions of viewers to the realities of Lyme disease and showed patients around the world that recovery is possible. Becoming Lyme Ninja As Talan's athletic career grew, so did his passion for advocacy. He created Lyme Ninja to combine his love for Ninja Warrior with his mission of bringing hope to the Lyme community. Through social media, public speaking, coaching, and interviews, he encourages patients to keep fighting, even when recovery feels impossible. Learn more at Lyme Ninja. Read Talan's memoir, Overcome: A Lyme Patient's Journey to American Ninja Warrior, where he shares his remarkable journey in greater depth. Expanding His Advocacy Competing on American Ninja Warrior gave Talan a larger platform, but his mission extends far beyond the obstacle course. Today, he partners with several leading Lyme disease organizations dedicated to advancing research, expanding patient access to care, and increasing public awareness. Talan has worked with the Center for Lyme Action (CLA), advocating before Congress for increased federal funding for Lyme disease research and public health initiatives. Learn more about the Center for Lyme Action: Episode 378: Center for Lyme Action – An Interview with Bonnie Crater Episode 196: The Bionic Woman – An Interview with Meghan Bradshaw Talan is also a grateful recipient of a treatment grant from the LymeLight Foundation, which helped him continue his recovery and athletic journey. Today, he gives back as a LymeLight advocate, encouraging other young patients and families facing similar challenges. Learn more about LymeLight: Episode 324: LymeLight Foundation – An Interview with Phyllis Bedford Western Medicine Fails a Nurse's Family – An Interview with Ashley Marba More recently, Talan has partnered with Project Lyme, which sponsors his advocacy efforts and athletic competitions, and collaborates with Global Lyme Alliance to educate the public and inspire others through speaking engagements, media appearances, and community outreach. Final Thoughts Talan's story is one of extraordinary resilience. Born with congenital Lyme disease, he endured years of debilitating illness, neurological complications, mold exposure, immune dysfunction, and countless setbacks before gradually reclaiming his life. Today, he continues to manage his health while competing as an American Ninja Warrior, coaching young athletes, advocating for Lyme disease awareness, and inspiring patients around the world. His journey reminds us that healing is rarely linear. There will be setbacks, detours, and difficult days. But with perseverance, the right support, and hope, remarkable progress is possible. As Talan says throughout his advocacy work: "Never give up. Never back down. Never stop fighting." Listen to Episode 572 of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Explore more inspiring conversations by visiting our Doctor Interviews, Researcher Interviews, and the Tick Boot Camp Blog.

What happens after Lyme disease treatment ends—but you still don't feel like yourself? In this powerful in-person Tick Boot Camp studio interview, bestselling author, certified health coach, and Lyme disease advocate Amy Kurtz returns to discuss her groundbreaking new book, But You Look Fine: Trapped in the Hell Between Sick and Well and How To Break Free. Following the overwhelming response to her first Tick Boot Camp interview in Episode 449: Kicking Sick: Your Go-To Guide for Thriving with Chronic Health Conditions, Amy joins Matt Sabatello and Rich Johannesen for an unforgettable conversation about the emotional, neurological, and psychological aftermath of chronic illness. Together, they explore why healing doesn't always end when symptoms improve—and why many Lyme disease patients remain trapped between being physically better and emotionally free. Amy introduces the concept of Medical Trauma Brain, a framework that helps explain the fear, hypervigilance, anxiety, identity loss, and nervous system dysregulation experienced by so many people recovering from Lyme disease, tick-borne illness, mold illness, autoimmune disease, Long COVID, and other chronic conditions. If you've ever wondered why recovery still feels incomplete after treatment, this episode is one you won't want to miss. Listen or Watch 🎧 You're viewing the show notes for the Tick Boot Camp audio podcast, available on TickBootCamp.com, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. 🎥 Prefer video? Watch the complete in-studio interview with Amy Kurtz on the Tick Boot Camp YouTube channel. Recorded in person at the Tick Boot Camp Studio, this deeply personal conversation combines Amy's lived experience, insights from leading trauma experts, and practical tools that can help patients move beyond survival mode and reclaim their lives. In This Episode What Is Medical Trauma Brain? Amy introduces her groundbreaking concept of Medical Trauma Brain (MTB)—the lingering emotional, neurological, and psychological effects that can persist long after physical symptoms improve. Years spent battling Lyme disease, searching for answers, enduring medical dismissal, and living in survival mode can fundamentally change how the brain responds to the world. Medical Trauma Brain helps explain why many patients continue experiencing: Fear of relapse Health anxiety Hypervigilance Difficulty trusting their bodies Loss of identity Emotional exhaustion Why Healing Doesn't End When Treatment Ends Amy shares how finally receiving a diagnosis of late-stage neurological Lyme disease and co-infections brought tremendous relief—but not complete healing. Although her body began recovering, her nervous system continued living as if danger was everywhere. She explains how years spent fighting for answers rewired her brain into survival mode, leaving her emotionally stuck despite significant physical progress. The conversation explores why emotional recovery often lags behind physical recovery and why this overlooked phase of healing deserves far greater attention. Chronic Resilience Can Become Chronic Survival For years, Amy relied on resilience simply to survive. But she explains how constantly pushing forward can eventually create a nervous system that's unable to relax—even after the crisis has passed. Matt and Rich discuss how resilience, while essential during illness, can eventually become another obstacle that requires healing, as the brain remains hypervigilant long after the physical danger has subsided. Rewiring the Brain After Chronic Illness Amy explains how true recovery required learning to retrain her brain and regulate her nervous system. She discusses the therapies that helped her rebuild emotional safety, including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Somatic Experiencing Nervous system regulation Mind-body healing Trauma-informed therapy Rich and Matt expand on the science of brain rewiring, discussing how the subconscious mind, nervous system, beliefs, and emotional responses interact throughout recovery. Restoring Trust in Your Body One of the most powerful moments in the conversation centers around learning to trust the body again. After years of illness, many patients begin questioning every symptom and every sensation. Amy explains how reconnecting with her body's signals, honoring intuition, and rebuilding confidence became some of the most important steps toward recovery. The Missing Piece of Lyme Disease Recovery The discussion challenges the traditional medical model by emphasizing that healing must include more than eliminating infection. Amy argues that complete recovery involves healing the: Body Brain Nervous system Emotions Spirit Together, Matt, Rich, and Amy discuss why treating only the physical illness often leaves patients feeling trapped between sickness and wellness. The Power of Agency One of the central themes of the interview is reclaiming agency. Amy shares how her recovery changed when she stopped seeing herself as a passive recipient of care and became an active participant in her healing journey. The conversation explores how patients can: Trust their intuition Advocate for themselves Build collaborative relationships with physicians Know when it's time to seek additional expertise Rebuild confidence after years of medical gaslighting Matt and Rich also discuss the importance of partnering with healthcare providers while remaining deeply connected to your own instincts and lived experience. Processing the Trauma of Chronic Illness Years of invisible illness often leave emotional wounds that aren't immediately obvious. Amy discusses: Medical gaslighting Misdiagnosis Fear of relapse Hypervigilance Grief Identity loss Emotional isolation She explains why acknowledging these experiences is essential for long-term healing and why many patients need to recover from the trauma of illness—not just the illness itself. Finding a New Identity After Lyme Disease One of the episode's most inspiring discussions centers on identity. Amy reflects on losing the life she expected to live—and discovering an entirely new purpose through writing, advocacy, and helping others heal. She shares how chronic illness ultimately transformed her calling, allowing her to help countless others navigate their own recovery journeys. Mind, Body, and Spirit: A New Model for Healing Throughout the interview, Amy, Matt, and Rich explore why healing is never just physical. They discuss how nervous system regulation, emotional resilience, brain retraining, spirituality, meaningful relationships, and personal growth all contribute to lasting recovery. Rather than viewing illness solely through a medical lens, the conversation encourages listeners to embrace a more complete model of healing that honors the whole person. Key Takeaways Medical Trauma Brain helps explain why emotional healing often lags behind physical recovery. Lyme disease recovery requires healing both the body and the nervous system. Trauma can persist long after infections improve. Brain retraining and nervous system regulation may complement physical treatment. Agency and self-advocacy are essential parts of recovery. Healing is rarely linear—but meaningful recovery is possible. Chronic illness can become a catalyst for profound personal growth, renewed purpose, and deeper self-awareness. About Amy Kurtz Amy Kurtz is a bestselling author, certified health coach, speaker, and longtime Lyme disease advocate dedicated to helping people navigate chronic illness with resilience and hope. Her newest book, But You Look Fine: Trapped in the Hell Between Sick and Well and How To Break Free, introduces readers to the concept of Medical Trauma Brain while providing practical guidance for rebuilding life after chronic illness. 📖 Order But You Look Fine: Trapped in the Hell Between Sick and Well and How To Break Free. Amy Kurtz's New York City Book Launch Before welcoming Amy into the Tick Boot Camp studio, Matt Sabatello and Rich Johannesen attended her inspiring New York City book launch at Barnes & Noble on Manhattan's Upper West Side. The evening brought together patients, physicians, advocates, caregivers, researchers, authors, and members of the chronic illness community to celebrate the release of But You Look Fine and its powerful message that emotional healing deserves as much attention as physical recovery. 📖 Read Tick Boot Camp's coverage of the New York City book launch. Subscribe to Tick Boot Camp If you enjoyed this conversation, subscribe to the Tick Boot Camp Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform, and subscribe to the Tick Boot Camp YouTube channel for more exclusive in-studio interviews with leading physicians, researchers, advocates, and Lyme disease survivors. 🎙️ Explore the Tick Boot Camp Podcast archive to discover hundreds of conversations with physicians, researchers, patient advocates, and inspiring survivors dedicated to helping people liberate themselves and others from Lyme disease and tick-borne illness. Healing isn't simply about eliminating symptoms. It's about rebuilding trust in yourself, regulating your nervous system, processing trauma, reclaiming your identity, and creating a meaningful life beyond chronic illness. In this unforgettable in-studio conversation, Amy Kurtz offers hope, validation, and a roadmap for anyone ready to move from surviving to truly living.

What happens when an active-duty Air Force officer, elite athlete, and aspiring astronaut suddenly finds his health slipping away—and no one can explain why? In this episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, we sit down with Major Trent Vonich, a United States Air Force officer whose relentless pursuit of answers led him through years of unexplained symptoms, medical uncertainty, and ultimately a diagnosis of Lyme disease and multiple tick-borne infections. Trent shares his remarkable journey from military service and elite physical performance to chronic illness, recovery, and a renewed mission focused on research, education, and helping others navigate the challenges of tick-borne disease. His story is one of resilience, perseverance, and discovering that purpose can evolve even when life takes an unexpected turn. Meet Major Trent Vonich Major Trent Vonich is an active-duty United States Air Force officer, former Combat Rescue Officer, endurance athlete, researcher, and PhD candidate whose life changed dramatically after developing a complex chronic illness linked to tick-borne infections. Throughout his military career, Trent pursued some of the Air Force's most demanding opportunities while maintaining a passion for endurance sports, leadership, and scientific inquiry. When mysterious symptoms began impacting his health and performance, he embarked on a years-long search for answers that would ultimately reshape both his personal and professional life. Today, he continues serving his country while advancing research, education, and awareness surrounding complex chronic illnesses. A Life Built Around Performance Before illness entered the picture, Trent's life revolved around excellence. As a Combat Rescue Officer, he trained and operated in one of the military's most physically and mentally demanding environments. Outside of his military duties, he pushed himself through endurance athletics and maintained an unwavering commitment to peak performance. Fitness, resilience, discipline, and service were central to his identity. Then everything began to change. When Symptoms Started to Appear What began as subtle health concerns gradually developed into a constellation of symptoms that became increasingly difficult to ignore. Trent experienced: Severe fatigue Brain fog Sleep disturbances Cognitive challenges Chronic pain Exercise intolerance Neurological symptoms Autonomic dysfunction Reduced athletic performance Unexplained declines in overall health As symptoms progressed, activities that once felt routine became increasingly difficult. Like many Lyme disease patients, he found himself knowing something was wrong long before he had an explanation. The Long Search for Answers Despite extensive medical evaluations, Trent struggled to find a diagnosis that fully explained what he was experiencing. He consulted numerous healthcare providers, underwent extensive testing, and explored a variety of possible explanations for his symptoms. Yet many of the answers fell short. The experience highlighted a challenge familiar to many in the Lyme community: living with very real symptoms while struggling to obtain clear answers from the medical system. As his condition continued to impact both his health and career, the search became increasingly urgent. Discovering Lyme Disease and Co-Infections Eventually, Trent's investigation led him to the possibility of tick-borne disease. Further evaluation revealed Lyme disease along with associated co-infections, helping explain the complex and multisystem nature of his symptoms. For the first time, many of the seemingly unrelated health issues began to fit together. The diagnosis provided validation, clarity, and a path forward. But as many patients discover, receiving a diagnosis is often only the beginning of the journey. Treatment, Recovery, and Rebuilding Health Trent discusses the comprehensive approach he used to address his illness and begin rebuilding his health. His recovery journey included: Treating Lyme disease and co-infections Addressing inflammation and immune dysfunction Improving sleep quality Optimizing nutrition Modifying exercise and training strategies Managing stress and recovery capacity Long-term health monitoring Rather than relying on a single intervention, Trent learned that recovery required addressing multiple aspects of health simultaneously. His experience reinforces an important lesson for many chronic illness patients: healing often requires persistence, patience, and a willingness to adapt. The Mental and Emotional Impact of Chronic Illness For someone whose identity was deeply connected to physical performance, the emotional impact of chronic illness was profound. Trent reflects on the challenges of watching his capabilities change while confronting uncertainty about his future. The experience forced him to reconsider long-held assumptions about success, achievement, and self-worth. Through that process, he developed a deeper understanding of resilience—one rooted not in physical performance alone, but in adaptability, perspective, and perseverance. Navigating Chronic Illness While Serving on Active Duty One of the most unique aspects of Trent's story is that it unfolded while he continued serving in the United States Air Force. During the interview, he discusses: Seeking medical care within the military healthcare system Balancing military responsibilities with chronic illness Communicating symptoms to healthcare providers Managing uncertainty during the diagnostic process Maintaining professional performance while struggling physically The challenges faced by service members dealing with complex chronic illnesses His perspective offers valuable insight for active-duty military personnel, veterans, and first responders facing similar health challenges. A Different Way to Serve Lyme disease changed the trajectory of Trent's military career, but it did not end his commitment to service. Health challenges ultimately led him away from operational flying and special operations duties, requiring him to rethink some of his long-term career goals. Rather than viewing those changes as an ending, Trent embraced a new mission. Today, he continues serving through advanced academic research, doctoral studies, mentorship, and future teaching opportunities. His story demonstrates that purpose is not tied to a single role or title. Sometimes life's greatest challenges reveal entirely new ways to contribute and make an impact. Lessons Learned Along the Way Throughout the conversation, Trent shares several powerful lessons: Trust your instincts when something feels wrong. Persistence is often necessary to find answers. Chronic illness affects every aspect of life—not just physical health. Recovery is rarely linear. Identity can survive even when circumstances change. Resilience is built through adaptation. Service can take many forms. Purpose often emerges from adversity. Why This Episode Matters Major Trent Vonich's story extends far beyond Lyme disease. It is a story about perseverance in the face of uncertainty, the importance of self-advocacy, and the power of finding meaning when life does not go according to plan. For Lyme disease patients, his experience provides validation that complex symptoms can be real even when answers are difficult to find. For military members, athletes, and high performers, his journey serves as a reminder that strength is not defined solely by physical capability but by the willingness to continue moving forward despite adversity. Most importantly, his story offers hope. Resources & Links Learn more about Lyme disease and tick-borne illness: Tick Boot Camp Podcast: https://tickbootcamp.com/podcast/ Tick Bite Blueprint: https://tickbootcamp.com/tick-bite-blueprint/ Why Lyme Persists: https://tickbootcamp.com/home/lyme-persists/ Lyme Testing Information: https://tickbootcamp.com/home/lyme-testing/ Tick Boot Camp Blog: https://tickbootcamp.com/blog/ Listen Now If this episode inspired you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who may benefit from hearing Trent's story. At Tick Boot Camp, we believe healing is possible, no one should face Lyme disease alone, and every story has the power to help someone else find hope.

🎙️ Episode Summary: Lyme Testing Is Failing Early Patients In this critical episode with special guest co-host Ali Moresco, we sit down with Dr. Liz Horn, Principal Investigator of the Lyme Disease Biobank, to break down her latest research: 👉 Evaluation of standard and modified two-tiered testing algorithms using well-characterized early Lyme disease samples This study takes a hard look at the current FDA-cleared Lyme testing system — and the findings are clear: 👉 Most early Lyme disease cases are being missed Dr. Horn explains why this is happening, what it means for patients, and why clinical judgment — not just testing — must guide early diagnosis and treatment. 🔬 The Study at the Center of This Episode 📄 View Dr. Liz Horn’s Research Publications 📊 Study Focus: Compared Standard Two-Tier Testing (STTT) vs Modified Two-Tier Testing (MTTT) Used real-world patient samples from early Lyme cases Evaluated four FDA-cleared diagnostic algorithms Focused primarily on patients within the first ~3 weeks of symptoms 🚨 Key Finding: Early Lyme Testing Is Deeply Flawed Only 22–36% of early Lyme cases tested positive That means 64–78% of cases were missed Most people with early Lyme disease will test negative 📌 Easy-to-share summary for doctors and patients: New Bay Area Lyme Foundation Study Shows Common FDA-Cleared Lyme Tests Miss 64–78% of Early Cases 🧠 Why These Tests Fail Current tests detect antibodies, not the bacteria itself The immune system needs time to produce detectable antibodies Early infections often test negative because the immune response has not developed yet The two-tier system adds additional opportunities for false negatives 👉 Core issue: Testing measures the body’s response, not the infection ⏱️ The Critical Timing Problem Within 1 week of symptoms, tests are almost always negative Around 2 weeks, detection improves slightly After 3–4 weeks, sensitivity increases but is still unreliable Testing does not become fully accurate at any point 👉 Key insight: Testing remains inconsistent even after the early window 🎯 Even “Classic” Lyme Cases Are Missed Patients with erythema migrans (EM rash) often tested negative Very few patients present with a classic bullseye rash A visible rash does not guarantee a positive test result 👉 Key takeaway: You can have Lyme and still test negative ⚠️ Major Issue: Test Inconsistency The same patient can receive different results depending on the test used One algorithm may detect Lyme while another misses it Results depend on timing, immune response, and test design 👉 Result: Testing cannot reliably confirm or rule out Lyme disease 🧍‍♂️ Who Actually Tests Positive? Patients with more symptoms were more likely to test positive Longer duration of illness increased likelihood of detection Stronger immune responses improved test sensitivity 👉 Translation: Testing tends to detect later-stage immune response, not early infection 💊 After Treatment: Testing Becomes Even Less Useful This study focused on early Lyme within the first ~3 weeks, where testing already performed poorly At approximately 3 months post-treatment, less than 5% of patients who still had an active infection tested positive These patients were originally diagnosed with early Lyme and many continued to have symptoms consistent with active or ongoing infection 👉 Why this happens: Antibiotics can suppress antibody production The immune response may no longer be detectable The bacteria may persist in tissues rather than circulating in blood 👉 Critical takeaway: Patients may still have an active infection or ongoing disease process and test negative 👉 Bottom line: Testing is unreliable early in infection Testing remains unreliable after treatment A negative test does not rule out Lyme disease at any stage 🧬 Another Challenge: Lyme Leaves the Blood Borrelia bacteria can move into tissues Blood-based tests may miss active infection Direct detection becomes more difficult over time 👉 This is why antibody testing is used, despite its limitations 🧩 Bigger Insight From This Study Current Lyme testing cannot reliably diagnose early infection Diagnosis must include symptoms, exposure history, and clinical judgment Over-reliance on testing leads to missed diagnoses and delayed care 🚀 What Comes Next (Hope from the Research) Development of direct detection tests that identify the bacteria Cell-free DNA testing approaches AI and machine learning diagnostics Multiplex testing targeting multiple markers Urine-based diagnostic innovations 👉 These advances aim to replace outdated antibody-based testing 🧑‍⚕️ Education Gap (Major Takeaway) Many clinicians are not trained on the limitations of Lyme testing Negative tests are often incorrectly used to rule out disease This contributes to delayed diagnosis and treatment 📚 Resource for clinicians and patients: VectorWise CME – Lyme Disease Education 💡 What This Means for You A negative test does not rule out Lyme disease Early symptoms are more important than lab results Treatment decisions should not rely solely on testing Follow-up care remains essential even after treatment 👉 Most important: Trust your symptoms and advocate for care 💚 Final Message This study confirms what many patients already experience: The testing system is flawed Early infections are frequently missed Patients can remain sick while testing negative But progress is happening. 👉 Better diagnostics are on the horizon You are not alone. Your experience is real.Healing is possible. 🎧 Continue Learning 👉 Explore Tick Boot Camp Podcast Episodes

In this powerful episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, we sit down with Erin Oprea—elite fitness trainer, U.S. Marine Corps veteran, and Lyme disease warrior. Known for training celebrities like Carrie Underwood, Erin shares her journey from peak physical performance to battling chronic illness—and how she fought her way back using cutting-edge therapies, peptides, and integrative medicine. Erin also reflects on her groundbreaking military career, including making history as the leader of the first all-female platoon attached to the infantry in a war zone, and how that same resilience now fuels her healing journey. Erin Oprea’s Background U.S. Marine Corps veteran with two tours in Iraq Led the first female platoon attached to infantry in a combat zone Elite celebrity trainer, including Carrie Underwood Built a career around peak physical performance and discipline Lyme Disease & Alpha-Gal Journey Experienced unexplained symptoms despite elite fitness level Faced delayed recognition and diagnosis Developed Alpha-Gal syndrome, a tick-borne allergy to mammalian meat Shifted toward functional and integrative medicine approaches Combined performance mindset with advanced healing protocols Advanced Treatments & Therapies HBOT (Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy) for oxygenation, inflammation reduction, and tissue healing EBOO₂ (Extracorporeal Blood Oxygenation and Ozonation) for pathogen reduction and blood detoxification HOCATT (Hyperthermic Ozone and Carbonic Acid Transdermal Technology) for full-body detox and immune support Hydrogen Therapy to reduce oxidative stress and support mitochondrial health SAAT (Soliman Auricular Allergy Treatment) to help reset immune response related to Alpha-Gal Herbal protocols for antimicrobial support, detoxification, and immune modulation Peptide Therapy Protocol Guided by experts like Dr. Joe Phiakhamta and informed by The Complete Guide to Peptides: Unlocking the Secrets to Health, Healing, and Longevity, Erin incorporated advanced peptide therapy: LL-37 to target bacteria, viruses, and biofilms including Lyme pathogens Thymosin Alpha-1 (TA-1) to regulate and strengthen immune response BPC-157 to repair gut lining, reduce inflammation, and accelerate tissue healing TB-500 (Thymosin Beta-4) to promote recovery, reduce inflammation, and support cellular repair SS-31 (Elamipretide) to improve mitochondrial function and energy production KPV to reduce inflammation and support gut and immune balance Key Practitioner Dr. Joe Phiakhamta specializing in peptide therapy and integrative Lyme disease treatment Focus on immune restoration, pathogen reduction, and performance recovery Fitness Meets Chronic Illness Recovery Transitioned from elite performance to chronic illness management Applied discipline and training mindset to healing process Leveraged advanced therapies to rebuild strength and energy Represents the intersection of fitness optimization and medical innovation Key Takeaways Tick-borne illnesses can impact even the most elite performers Alpha-Gal syndrome is a serious and often overlooked tick-borne condition Healing requires a multi-layered approach including immune, detox, and mitochondrial support Peptides are an emerging and powerful tool in Lyme disease recovery Mental resilience plays a critical role in long-term healing Final Thoughts Erin Oprea’s journey is a powerful example of resilience, innovation, and determination. From combat leadership to chronic illness recovery, she continues to push boundaries—showing what’s possible when elite discipline meets cutting-edge medicine.

What happens when chronic Lyme disease takes away your health, your confidence, and even your sense of self? In this deeply emotional and inspiring episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, Jasmin Perdomo shares her powerful 12-year journey through chronic Lyme disease, Bartonella, Babesia, debilitating neurological symptoms, medical gaslighting, emotional trauma, and ultimately — rediscovering herself through poetry, faith, and healing. Raised in New Jersey and once a hyper-athletic young woman, Jasmin never imagined she would one day become bedridden, unable to walk without holding onto walls, crawling from her bed to the bathroom, and searching desperately for answers no doctor seemed able to provide. But through unimaginable suffering came transformation. Jasmin opens up about: Living years undiagnosed with Lyme disease Severe neurological Lyme symptoms including vertigo, memory loss, facial paralysis, and heart complications The emotional toll of chronic illness and divorce Her experience with aggressive antibiotic protocols and Herxheimer reactions Why detoxification, nervous system healing, spirituality, and creativity became essential parts of her recovery How poetry became her lifeline during the darkest moments of her journey This conversation is raw, validating, and hopeful for anyone navigating Lyme disease, chronic illness, trauma, or identity loss. In This Episode You’ll Learn Jasmin’s Early Lyme Disease Symptoms Jasmin describes how unexplained fatigue, tachycardia, heart palpitations, vertigo, ringing in the ears, slurred speech, and neurological symptoms slowly overtook her life while living in Puerto Rico. The Reality of Medical Gaslighting Like many Lyme patients, Jasmin spent years searching for answers while being misdiagnosed, dismissed, and prescribed medications that failed to address the root cause of her illness. Chronic Lyme Disease and Emotional Trauma The episode explores the connection between stress, trauma, emotional suppression, nervous system dysregulation, and chronic illness progression. How Poetry Became a Healing Tool While bedridden, Jasmin returned to writing poetry — something she loved as a child — and discovered that creative expression became a powerful emotional detox and survival mechanism. Buy Bittersweet Body: a Poetic Memoir, Jasmin's debut poetry book, inspired her life’s mission: to illuminate the invisible in a visible world. The Importance of Detoxification and Nervous System Healing Jasmin discusses the therapies that helped her most, including: Sauna therapy Binders Meditation Faith and prayer Journaling Acupuncture Gentle movement Emotional release through writing Learning to Receive Help One of the most moving parts of the interview centers around Jasmin’s struggle with independence, vulnerability, and learning how to accept support from loved ones during her healing journey. Key Takeaways From Jasmin Perdomo’s Lyme Journey Healing from Lyme disease requires addressing the physical, emotional, and spiritual body. Detoxification can be just as important as antimicrobial treatment. Creativity and self-expression can become powerful healing tools. Nervous system regulation matters in chronic illness recovery. You are not weak for asking for help. Healing is possible — even after years of suffering. Quotes From This Episode “Poetry saved my life. It gave me mouth-to-mouth resuscitation when I couldn’t breathe.” “When my body became a stranger, writing helped me remember who I was.” “You are not weak for asking for help.” “Healing isn’t just physical. It’s emotional, spiritual, and deeply personal.” About Tick Boot Camp Tick Boot Camp is a Lyme disease advocacy platform dedicated to helping people liberate themselves and others from Lyme disease through education, validation, community, and hope. Through powerful conversations with patients, doctors, researchers, and healers, Tick Boot Camp reminds listeners that they are not alone — and that healing is possible. 🎧 Listen to more episodes

In this powerful episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, we sit down with Nicole O’Donnell—author of Resilient Hope: A Memoir of Life With Chronic Illness—to discuss her deeply personal Lyme disease journey, the emotional realities of chronic illness, and the transformative power of community, mindset, and hope. Nicole shares how her life changed after developing debilitating Lyme disease symptoms, the years of medical confusion that followed, and how COVID intensified her chronic illness experience. Through vulnerability and honesty, she opens up about navigating fear, identity loss, parenting while chronically ill, and ultimately discovering purpose through advocacy and storytelling. This conversation also explores the importance of patient-doctor relationships, nervous system regulation, healing mindset, and how Lyme disease impacts entire families—not just the patient. Most importantly, Nicole reminds listeners that healing is possible, and no one has to face Lyme disease alone. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Nicole O’Donnell’s personal chronic Lyme disease journey How Lyme disease symptoms can become invisible and misunderstood The emotional impact of medical dismissal and misdiagnosis Why mindset and nervous system regulation matter in healing How chronic illness affects marriage, parenting, and family dynamics The role community plays in Lyme disease recovery Why Nicole wrote Resilient Hope How storytelling helps validate and empower Lyme patients The importance of hope, advocacy, and finding purpose through adversity About Nicole O’Donnell Nicole O’Donnell is a Staten Island-based entrepreneur, mother, advocate, and author of Resilient Hope: A Memoir of Life With Chronic Illness. Through her writing and advocacy, Nicole seeks to help people living with Lyme disease and chronic illness feel seen, heard, and supported. Her book weaves together stories from members of the Lyme disease community to create a message of resilience, healing, and connection. Read More About Nicole’s Manhattan Book Launch Tick Boot Camp recently attended Nicole O’Donnell’s inspiring Manhattan book launch event, where nearly 1,000 people gathered in support of the Lyme disease community and the message behind Resilient Hope. Explore More Tick Boot Camp Resources 🎙 Tick Boot Camp Podcast 👩‍⚕️ Lyme Doctor Interviews 🧠 Tick Bite Blueprint 🧪 Lyme Testing Resources 🔬 Learn Why Lyme Persists Final Thoughts Nicole O’Donnell’s story is a reminder that chronic Lyme disease affects every part of a person’s life—but it can also become a catalyst for transformation, deeper connection, and purpose. Through Resilient Hope, Nicole is helping build a stronger Lyme disease community rooted in validation, compassion, and healing. If you or someone you love is navigating Lyme disease, this episode offers encouragement, perspective, and a powerful reminder that resilient hope is possible.

In this powerful episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, Matt Sabatello and Rich Johannesen sit down with Marina Morgan, a professional singer, songwriter, real estate agent, and Lyme disease survivor from New York and New Jersey. Marina shares the deeply personal story of how a vibrant, high-energy young woman who loved running, fitness, and music suddenly found her life turned upside down by Lyme disease in her early twenties. What began as stomach issues quickly progressed into neurological symptoms, extreme fatigue, balance problems, and ultimately sudden vision loss in one eye — a terrifying turning point that led to her eventual diagnosis. After seeing multiple doctors and facing potential misdiagnoses such as multiple sclerosis and scleroderma, Marina was finally diagnosed with Lyme disease through a Western Blot test by Dr. Pollack. Her treatment included 18 months of IV antibiotics through a PICC line, followed by another year of treatment after a later flare-up. Today, Marina continues to navigate chronic Lyme symptoms while building a career in music, real estate, and fitness, demonstrating resilience, perseverance, and determination even on difficult days. Her story is a powerful reminder that Lyme disease can affect anyone — even young, healthy, active people — and that persistence, positivity, and support are essential in the healing journey. About Marina Morgan Marina Morgan is a professional singer and songwriter who has appeared on the Today Show, was named Elvis Duran’s Artist of the Month, and has been featured on iHeartRadio and in multiple publications as an emerging artist. In addition to her music career, Marina works as a real estate agent serving New York and New Jersey and as a gym manager, continuing to stay connected to the world of fitness despite the physical challenges created by Lyme disease. Marina has also used her music to express the realities of chronic illness. Her song “Paralyzed” captures the emotional and physical struggle many Lyme patients face when their bodies no longer cooperate with the life they once lived. Watch Marina’s Lyme-inspired music video “Paralyzed" Follow Marina on Instagram Key Topics Discussed in This Episode Life Before Lyme Disease Before getting sick, Marina lived an extremely active lifestyle. She ran miles every day simply for enjoyment, maintained multiple jobs, and had a vibrant social life. Fitness and movement were central to her identity, and she describes having seemingly endless energy. Lyme disease dramatically altered that reality. Early Symptoms and Sudden Vision Loss Marina’s illness began subtly with stomach issues and fatigue, but symptoms soon escalated. She began experiencing: Severe fatigue Weakness in her legs Balance and coordination issues Neurological symptoms Brain fog Loss of vision in one eye The sudden vision loss was the turning point that signaled something much more serious was happening. Misdiagnosis and the Search for Answers Before receiving a Lyme diagnosis, doctors suspected conditions such as multiple sclerosis (MS) and scleroderma. Marina visited several doctors and specialists before finally receiving the correct diagnosis. Her father, who had previously experienced Lyme disease himself, recognized the possibility and helped advocate for Lyme testing. She was ultimately diagnosed at age 23 through a Western Blot blood test by Dr. Pollack. Intensive Lyme Treatment Following her diagnosis, Marina underwent 18 months of intravenous antibiotic treatment through a PICC line, one of the more aggressive approaches used for severe Lyme disease. Years later, after experiencing a flare-up, she required another year of treatment. Today she is not undergoing active Lyme treatment but continues supportive wellness practices including: Infrared sauna Yoga Probiotics Living with Chronic Lyme Marina estimates she has recovered to about 60% of her pre-Lyme health. The most persistent symptom she continues to battle is extreme fatigue, which can make even simple daily activities exhausting. She describes the unpredictability of chronic Lyme — how a good day can be followed by days or weeks of exhaustion. Despite these challenges, Marina continues to work, maintain relationships, and pursue her passions. Music as a Voice for Lyme Patients Marina has channeled her experience with chronic illness into her music. Her song “Paralyzed” captures the emotional reality of Lyme disease — the feeling of being trapped in a body that no longer functions the way it once did. The song resonates deeply with Lyme patients and others living with invisible illness. Watch the video here Advice for People Fighting Lyme Disease Marina encourages patients not to give up during the darkest moments of illness. Lyme disease can be physically and emotionally overwhelming, but maintaining hope and continuing to pursue healing strategies can make a meaningful difference. She stresses the importance of: Listening to your body Giving yourself grace Staying mentally resilient Continuing to search for solutions Key Takeaways Lyme disease can affect young, healthy, highly active people Neurological symptoms like vision loss can occur with Lyme disease Misdiagnosis is common in complex Lyme cases Long-term IV antibiotic treatment is sometimes required Chronic symptoms can persist even after treatment Mental resilience plays a major role in managing chronic illness

This special Tick Boot Camp Podcast crossover features the full International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society (ILADS) webinar recording, “At the Frontlines of Chronic Illness: Conversations with ILADS Experts.” In this dynamic panel discussion, leading clinicians and specialists unpack why Lyme disease and other infection-associated chronic illnesses are so misunderstood, why testing fails so many patients, and what it really takes to heal—brain, immune system, mitochondria, and terrain included. Moderated by Rich Johannesen (Tick Boot Camp), the panel delivers practical insights and hopeful, patient-centered guidance for anyone navigating complex chronic illness—whether you’re a patient, caregiver, clinician, or advocate. Featured Panelists Chris Winfrey, MD — Psychiatrist; Medical Director, New Image Wellness Nicole Bell — “The Lyme Disease Engineer”; CEO, Galaxy Diagnostics Tania Dempsey, MD — Medical Director, AIM Center for Personalized Medicine Melanie Stein, ND — Naturopathic Doctor; Author focused on cellular wellness and healing terrain Host/Moderator: Rich Johannesen (Tick Boot Camp) ILADS Intro: Ali Moresco (ILADS) Episode Highlights ILADS Mission and Why This Webinar Matters The webinar opens with ILADS’ mission: improving diagnosis and treatment of Lyme disease and associated illnesses through research, education, and policy. ILADS emphasizes physician training and patient-centered care, while also supporting the educational mission of ILADEF. Rich frames the night as a rare opportunity to hear from experts working at the front lines of complex chronic illness—especially for patients who’ve been dismissed, misdiagnosed, or told their symptoms “don’t make sense.” Segment 1: Brain Health, Neuroimmune Illness, and Why Lyme “Feels Like Dementia” Chris Winfrey, MD Dr. Winfrey introduces a core theme: Lyme is not only an infection—it often behaves like a neuroimmune illness. Key takeaways: The brain is a high-energy, high-immune-demand organ, uniquely vulnerable to infection-driven inflammation and toxicity. Lyme can disrupt brain function through: Blood flow issues Synaptic dysfunction Myelin damage Network-level disruption, not just “neurotransmitters” He describes brain function through networks that Lyme can destabilize: Default Mode Network (internal reflection) Salience Network (switching between networks) Central Executive Network (planning/organization) Action Network (execution) Autonomic Network (regulation) Limbic Network (threat/fear response) The result: patients often describe “brain shutdown,” confusion, cognitive impairment, and even dementia-like symptoms. A major reframing: Emotions are not “non-physical.” They are measurable physiological states. Lyme-driven nervous system injury can create emotional disturbance because the biology is disturbed. Segment 2: Poly-microbial Infection, Fight-or-Flight, and the Belief-Healing Loop Winfrey + Rich Discussion Rich frames humans as spiritual, emotional, and physical beings, and asks how chronic infection impacts both body and emotional resilience. Key points: Lyme can cross the blood-brain barrier and affect virtually any organ system. The nervous system becomes a “central battleground,” and measurement is hard because nervous system dysfunction isn’t captured well by simple bloodwork. Rich and Dr. Winfrey explore how illness disrupts perception, decision-making, and our ability to interpret the world—especially when gut function and intuition feel “offline.” The healing paradox: Chronic stress and “fighting your way to healing” can backfire. Dr. Winfrey emphasizes that healing requires a parasympathetic state—rest, digest, repair—and that this often involves acceptance, surrender, trust, and safety. Segment 3: The State of Testing—Why So Many Patients Test Negative Nicole Bell (Galaxy Diagnostics) Nicole shares her personal motivation and professional mission: testing determines treatment, reimbursement, and belief—and too many patients are failed by existing tools. Indirect testing (antibody testing): The standard approach relies on antibodies—meaning it depends on the immune system behaving predictably. But Lyme and other stealth pathogens evade and suppress immune responses. Even in controlled research models, two infected subjects can show completely different antibody patterns. Immunosuppression (illness severity, medications like steroids, immune dysregulation) can reduce antibody reliability. Direct testing (pathogen detection):Nicole contrasts Lyme testing with illnesses like COVID—where you use tests that look for the pathogen itself (PCR/antigen), not just antibodies. Why direct detection is hard in Lyme: Pathogens can be low abundance They can be tissue-sequestered Sampling matters Why urine can matter for Lyme: Lyme may not stay in blood, but it can shed proteins/antigens that filter into urine. Galaxy’s approach includes methods to capture, concentrate, and detect those markers. New diagnostics focus: Genus-level screening for the “3Bs” (Borrelia, Bartonella, Babesia) Reducing guessing when symptoms overlap and co-infections “masquerade” as each other Segment 4: Immune Dysfunction, Mast Cells, and Why Antibody Testing Can Go Haywire Tania Dempsey, MD (AIM Center for Personalized Medicine) Dr. Dempsey explains the immune system through two major branches: Innate immune system (fast, primitive defense) Adaptive immune system (antibodies, longer-term response) Mast cells as first responders: Mast cells detect “danger” and release inflammatory mediators (histamine and many others). In chronic infection, mast cells can remain persistently activated, releasing hundreds of inflammatory compounds. Why antibody tests fail (two patterns): Immune suppression → insufficient antibody production → false negatives Immune chaos → excessive, inappropriate antibody production → confusing positives - Positive Lyme bands “everywhere” - Positive autoantibodies without classic autoimmune disease patterns - “Everything looks positive” because signaling is dysfunctional Her central philosophy:It’s not only about killing the bug. It’s about fixing immune regulation so the body can actually clear or control infection. She also names the broader context: modern toxic load (mold, plastics, pesticides, “forever chemicals”) primes the immune system into dysregulation before infections even arrive. Segment 5: Advanced Immune-Modulating Tools Therapeutic Plasma Exchange + SOT Dr. Dempsey discusses therapies she’s excited about, especially for complex, stuck cases: Therapeutic Plasma Exchange (TPE / plasmapheresis): Removes plasma (where antibodies, inflammatory mediators, and “garbage” accumulate) Replaces with albumin (and sometimes IVIG) Concept: reduce inflammatory burden + toxic load to reset the terrain SOT (Supportive Oligonucleotide Technique): Molecular targeted approach designed to reduce replication of specific pathogens More targeted than “wide-net” antimicrobial approaches Used strategically after lowering inflammatory/toxic burden She emphasizes: not for everyone, not a universal cure—but promising enough to merit formal publication. Segment 6: GLP-1 Agonists and Mast Cell Stabilization “Brain-melt” moment, revisited Dr. Dempsey explains why drugs commonly known for diabetes/weight loss may have immune benefits: Mast cells have receptors for GLP and GIP hormones Patients showed improvements beyond weight: cognitive function, inflammation, immune stability She describes: Semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy) Tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound) Emerging triple agonists (GLP-1/GIP/glucagon pathways) Her clinical approach has moved these agents earlier in care plans for immune stabilization in select cases. Segment 7: Cellular Healing, Mitochondria, and the Terrain Melanie Stein, ND Dr. Stein brings it home: healing often stalls when we focus only on killing pathogens, but don’t repair the cellular damage. Core concepts: Lyme damages cell membranes, disrupting what goes in/out and how cells communicate. It contributes to mitochondrial dysfunction, reducing ATP (energy currency). If cells stay in “alarm mode,” healing remains blocked. Cell membrane therapy and terrain support: IV and oral lipid support (phospholipids, phosphatidylcholine, omega fatty acids) Personalized support based on lipidomic patterns Supportive therapies to reduce oxidative stress and “toxic fats” Focus on signaling safety to the body—so repair can resume Cell Danger Response:A key theme: even after infections reduce, the body may remain stuck in a persistent defense state, requiring cellular and nervous system support to exit “danger mode.” Regulation Before Eradication Panel Reflection Round As the panel closes, several themes converge: Limbic system + autonomic nervous system regulation is foundational “Regulation becomes before eradication” Healing requires safety, predictability, and nervous system calm Chronic illness can block our ability to connect—especially in relationships—because survival physiology dominates Dr. Dempsey adds that limbic retraining / nervous system reset is often the first step she starts with in her practice. Question and Answer Highlights Lyme and Cancer? The panel notes emerging signals connecting tick-borne illness and certain cancers, but emphasizes that more research is needed to determine causality. Herniated discs, connective tissue, and chronic infection The discussion highlights potential links through: connective tissue disruption collagen damage mast cell mediators (enzymes that affect tissue integrity) infection-driven inflammation Cross-reactive antibody results (example: Brucella) The group explains how antibody testing can produce confusing results due to immune dysregulation and cross-reactivity—another reason why interpretation and test methodology matter. Nasal testing / sinus terrain While not a mainstream Lyme diagnostic route, the panel references nasal/sinus colonization (especially with mold-related or chronic inflammatory patterns) as a terrain factor that can influence recovery. Resources Mentioned Center for Lyme Action – State of Lyme Disease Research paper (Nicole Bell collaboration) ILADS Provider Search International Lyme and Associated Diseases Educational Foundation (ILADEF) Donations (supports education and clinician training) Final Message to Listeners This episode is a reminder that Lyme disease and infection-associated chronic illness are not one-dimensional problems. The path forward often requires: better diagnostics immune regulation nervous system support cellular repair personalized care and hope that the body can recover when the right puzzle pieces come together

In this powerful in-person interview at the Tick Boot Camp studio, Matt Sabatello sits down with Dr. Somer DelSignore, DNP, a board-certified pediatric practitioner specializing in Lyme disease, tick-borne co-infections, PANS/PANDAS, autoimmune and neuroimmune disorders, autism-like regression, and congenital tick-borne illness. This episode is essential listening for parents who have been told to “wait and see,” families who have seen multiple specialists without answers, and anyone trying to understand how infection, inflammation, immune dysfunction, and nervous system imbalance can impact a child’s brain and development. 🎙 About Dr. Somer DelSignore Dr. DelSignore began her career in traditional pediatric medicine before recognizing that many children with complex chronic illness could not be properly treated in 10–15 minute appointments. Her clinical evolution accelerated after: Training with Dr. Richard Horowitz (tick-borne disease complexity and layered treatment strategies) Training with Dr. Kenneth Bock (autism and autoimmune encephalopathy patterns) Identifying the infectious and immune triggers driving neuropsychiatric symptoms Today, she runs a private practice in upstate New York where she treats children (and a small cohort of adults) using a comprehensive, root-cause framework. 🧠 Autism, Lyme & Autoimmunity — Connecting the Dots Dr. DelSignore explains that autism is often a cluster of symptoms, not a single-gene condition. In her clinical experience, many children experience immune-triggered neuroinflammation that presents as: OCD Anxiety Rage Intrusive thoughts Impulsivity Hallucinations Developmental regression Lyme and co-infections such as Bartonella and Babesia can activate autoimmune responses that interfere with neurotransmitter signaling. When inflammation blocks receptors for dopamine and serotonin, psychiatric symptoms emerge. Her message is clear:These symptoms are often biomedical — not simply behavioral. 🦠 Why “Root Cause” Is Rarely One Thing Healing rarely comes down to one pathogen. Children may present with overlapping contributors such as: Lyme disease and co-infections Mold and mycotoxins Heavy metals Epigenetic pathway dysfunction Detox impairment Nervous system dysregulation Dr. DelSignore emphasizes layered pattern recognition and systematic evaluation rather than single-diagnosis thinking. 🧬 Treatment Approach: Layered, Sequenced & Individualized There is no cookie-cutter protocol. Her framework may include: Targeted antibiotic combinations Herbal antimicrobials Biofilm and fibrin support Gut protection from day one Detox support (liver, kidney, lymphatic) Ozone therapy SOT (gene-silencing therapy) IVIG for autoimmune modulation (when appropriate) Plasmapheresis referral Regenerative PRP strategies Sequencing matters. Some children require detox and nervous system stabilization before antimicrobial treatment begins. 🧱 Biofilms & Tissue Infection Dr. DelSignore confirms: Biofilms are real and clinically significant Microbes communicate and protect one another Chronic infections often reside in tissue, not just blood Killing pathogens without detox support can worsen flares Her philosophy:Eliminate pathogens while simultaneously rebuilding the body. 🌿 Detox, Regeneration & the Nervous System Pathogen elimination is only part of recovery. Healing also requires: Supporting liver and kidney detox pathways Encouraging lymphatic flow Gentle sauna when tolerated Epsom salt baths Breathwork and box breathing Vagus nerve stimulation Nervous system retraining Many children are stuck in chronic sympathetic (“fight-or-flight”) mode. True recovery requires shifting into parasympathetic “rest and repair.” ❤️ A Story of Hope Dr. DelSignore shares the case of a child born with congenital tick-borne infections who: Was non-verbal Required feeding tube support Was diagnosed with autism After comprehensive treatment and immune regulation, the child: Became verbal Engaged socially Reached developmental milestones Thrives in school It’s a reminder that recovery is possible—even in severe presentations. 🏥 The Care Coordination Challenge Families often see 10–15 specialists before reaching her office. Dr. DelSignore stresses the importance of: A “medical home” One lead clinician acting as quarterback Coordinated communication among providers She also discusses the urgent need for legislative and insurance reform to support time-intensive chronic illness care. 🌎 Looking Forward Dr. DelSignore hopes for: Increased research funding Broader recognition of infection-driven neuroinflammation Earlier pediatric intervention A shift toward prevention and health-promotion medicine Her belief: When properly supported, the body can heal. 🔑 Key Takeaways Trust parental intuition Neuropsychiatric symptoms may be immune-driven Detox and gut health are foundational Nervous system regulation is critical Healing is possible—even in complex cases

Frédéric Roscop, French-born osteopath and founder of AEQUIL, joins the Tick Boot Camp Podcast as our first-ever in-studio international guest, flying in from London to Long Island to share his personal battle with chronic Lyme disease—and the breakthrough that reshaped his life and career. After decades of unexplained symptoms, misdiagnoses, heart inflammation, neurological dysfunction, and failed treatment attempts across multiple countries, Frédéric discovered that killing microbes alone wasn’t enough. His recovery began when he shifted focus from chasing pathogens to restoring the body’s foundational terrain—supporting immune regulation, detoxification, cellular function, stress physiology, and energetic balance. In this deeply reflective and technical conversation, Frédéric shares how childhood tick exposure in rural France, years of undiagnosed Borrelia and Bartonella infection, and repeated medical dead-ends ultimately led him to develop a patented biotech system designed to help others reset their foundational wellbeing. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Growing Up in Tick Territory Frédéric describes growing up in rural France, frequently covered in ticks as a child—long before Lyme disease was widely recognized in Europe. Early symptoms included: Chronic insomnia and hyperactivity Digestive dysfunction and blood sugar instability Visual disturbances and light sensitivity Emotional instability and neurological symptoms Recurrent inflammation At 16, following general anesthesia for a broken nose, he experienced what he now recognizes as a major Lyme “crash,” leading to cognitive decline, emotional dysregulation, and worsening physical inflammation. Heart Inflammation & Athletic Collapse By age 17–18, Frédéric’s promising volleyball career ended due to inflammatory joint disease and recurring pericarditis (heart inflammation)—which would return six times over the next 15 years. Antibiotics temporarily improved symptoms, but the root cause remained unidentified. “I Didn’t Even Know What Lyme Disease Was” As a young osteopath in practice, Frédéric recalls a patient asking whether her symptoms could be Lyme disease. At the time, he had never been trained on it. Years later, another patient was hospitalized with Lyme-related encephalitis—triggering Frédéric’s realization that Lyme might explain both his patients’ suffering and his own. This episode includes an honest discussion about: Medical training gaps Diagnostic limitations The importance of humility in healthcare Why the doctor–patient relationship must be a partnership Diagnosis: Borrelia, Bartonella & More Specialty testing eventually revealed: Borrelia Bartonella Viral findings including Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) Heavy metal burden (notably elevated mercury) Frédéric began aggressive antibiotic and detox protocols—but experienced severe gut collapse and worsening terrain. Despite trying treatments across Europe, the U.S., China, India, and Switzerland—including antimicrobial, herbal, and integrative approaches—he improved only marginally. The Turning Point: It’s Not Just the Bug — It’s the Terrain Frédéric revisited the foundational debate in medicine: Louis Pasteur: It’s the germ. Claude Bernard: It’s the terrain. His breakthrough came when he shifted focus to rebuilding: Gut function Cellular membranes Detox pathways Nervous system regulation Emotional and energetic resilience Rather than focusing exclusively on killing microbes, he asked: Does the body have the capacity to self-regulate and self-repair? From that question, AEQUIL was born. What Is AEQUIL? AEQUIL is a biotech wellness system built around a patented technology Frédéric calls Liquid Intelligence — a formulation combining: Structured/dynamised water Botanicals Vitamins and electrolytes Biochemical and biophysical support The system supports: Brain, heart, gut, liver, and immune foundations Detoxification and lymphatic flow Stress physiology Emotional and energetic regulation The AEQUIL Deep Reset System Maintain (Foundational Support) A daily liquid formula designed to nourish the body’s core systems and support cellular regulation. Suggested use: ½ teaspoon morning ½ teaspoon evening Reset (Deep Reset Protocol) A structured approach to support: Microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites) Micro-toxins (detox pathways) Micro-traumas (stress and emotional stagnation) The protocol is phased to reduce Herx reactions and build resilience gradually, with many users reporting a noticeable physiological shift around weeks 8–10. Everyday Support Wearable patches and digital wellness tools (affirmations, breathwork) designed to support mood, sleep, energy, and immune balance during recovery. Core Message of This Episode Chronic Lyme recovery is rarely about one silver bullet. It requires: Restoring foundational systems Supporting detox and immune function Addressing nervous system and stress patterns Recognizing both biochemical and energetic influences Frédéric’s story is one of humility, evolution, and transformation—from a practitioner unaware of Lyme disease to a global wellness innovator working to support both patients and healthcare providers. 🎧 Tick Boot Camp Listener Exclusive AEQUIL is offering Tick Boot Camp listeners: 30% off with code: TB30 Listeners can email: [email protected] Emails will connect you directly with Frédéric for guidance on: The Deep Reset protocol What to expect Choosing the right welcome pack

GLP-1 Agonists, MCAS, Lyme Disease, and the Future of Precision Medicine In this powerful Tick Boot Camp Podcast interview, Matt Sabatello sits down with Dr. Tania Dempsey, MD, a board-certified internal medicine physician and internationally recognized expert in Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), Lyme disease, autoimmune conditions, and complex chronic illness. In this comprehensive conversation, Dr. Dempsey delivers one of the most forward-thinking and in-depth discussions ever featured on the podcast — connecting the dots between persistent symptoms after Lyme, immune dysregulation, biofilms, nervous system dysfunction, and groundbreaking research on GLP-1 receptor agonists as mast-cell stabilizers. This episode offers science, clinical insight, and — most importantly — hope for patients who have tried everything and are still struggling. Lyme Disease, MCAS, and Why Patients Stay Sick Why Treating Lyme Alone Is Often Not Enough Dr. Dempsey explains why many patients continue to experience inflammation, pain, neurological symptoms, and relapses even after treating Lyme disease and co-infections. According to her clinical experience, this is most often due to primary Mast Cell Activation Syndrome, not persistent infection alone. Key insight: > Lyme disease frequently acts as the trigger, but MCAS is often the driver of ongoing symptoms. Dr. Dempsey clarifies the critical difference between: Primary MCAS (pre-existing immune dysfunction worsened by infections) Secondary MCAS (rare; resolves completely once infection is treated) She notes that in decades of clinical practice, she has never seen true secondary MCAS fully resolve without ongoing mast-cell management. SOT Therapy: When, Why, and How It Works Best Dr. Dempsey provides a nuanced and experience-based explanation of Supportive Oligonucleotide Technique (SOT) for Lyme and co-infections. She addresses common criticism: One-time SOT treatments are rarely sufficient Chronic Lyme often involves multiple strains of Borrelia , Babesia , and Bartonella Her most successful cases involve: Repeated testing Sequential SOT treatments targeting specific strains Immune system support between rounds Adjunctive therapies such as herbs, antiparasitics, and mast-cell stabilization She shares a remarkable case of a young woman with severe neuropsychiatric symptoms who — after years of persistent SOT treatment combined with MCAS management — is now thriving, off psychiatric medications, and successfully completing college. Biofilms: Why They Matter in Chronic Infection Dr. Dempsey firmly states that biofilms are a critical barrier to recovery in chronically ill patients. Key points: Biofilms exist in the gut, sinuses, blood, and tissues They protect microbes from antibiotics, herbs, and immune attack Resistant biofilms may involve extracellular DNA (Z-DNA), discussed at ILADS Therapies discussed: Enzymes such as lumbrokinase and nattokinase Ozone therapy Therapeutic Plasma Exchange (TPE) for severe cases Her message is clear: if you cannot reach microbial reservoirs hidden in biofilms, infections cannot be fully controlled. GLP-1 Agonists, Immune Modulation, and Breakthrough MCAS Research GLP-1 Receptor Agonists as Mast-Cell Stabilizers Dr. Dempsey presents groundbreaking findings from her published case series: “The Utility of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists in Mast Cell Activation Syndrome” Key details: 47-patient case series Micro-dosing of GLP-1 agonists Primary medications used: tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) and semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy) Unlike weight-loss protocols, Dr. Dempsey uses very low doses to target immune modulation — not appetite suppression. What GLP-1 Therapy Improved in MCAS & Lyme Patients Reported improvements included: Cognitive clarity and brain fog Chronic pain Neuropsychiatric symptoms Anxiety and depression Gastrointestinal symptoms Systemic inflammation Hormonal dysregulation In some cases, patients experienced improvement within one or two doses. Dr. Dempsey explains that mast cells express GLP-1 receptors, and activation sends a signal of safety, reducing inflammatory mediator release. Unexpected Findings: Muscle Mass and Antibody Reduction Contrary to common concerns, Dr. Dempsey observed: Preserved or increased muscle mass in the majority of patients Improved mitochondrial function and exercise tolerance Reduction in chronic antibody production (including Lyme Western Blot bands) She shares a striking case where a patient with long-standing positive Lyme antibodies saw antibody levels decline for the first time in over a decade after GLP-1 therapy — despite infection already being treated. This supports her hypothesis: > MCAS can drive persistent immune activation even when infection is no longer present. Side Effects, Screening & Who Should Not Use GLP-1s Potential side effects (usually mild): Nausea Delayed gastric emptying Occasional vomiting in sensitive patients Important clinical notes: Some patients respond better to semaglutide vs tirzepatide A small subset may require dose cycling or pulsing Antibody formation against GLP-1 drugs is a potential research focus Non-Pharmaceutical Alternatives to Increase GLP-1 Activity For patients who cannot tolerate medications, Dr. Dempsey outlines alternatives. Herbal & Supplement Options OptimumGLP Synergy (herbal blend designed to support GLP-1 signaling) Calocurb (GLP-1 supportive compound) These options may: Reduce inflammation Help stabilize appetite and blood sugar Calm mast-cell activity Diet-Based Strategies Dr. Dempsey explains why higher-protein and carnivore-leaning diets may benefit MCAS and Lyme patients: Protein and fat stimulate endogenous GLP-1 Reduced food triggers Improved metabolic stability Patients do not need to eat exclusively meat — but increasing high-quality protein intake is often beneficial. Nervous System, Trauma & Mast Cell Feedback Loops The episode explores how: Mast cells and nerves exist in a bidirectional feedback loop Chronic fight-or-flight worsens immune activation Therapies discussed: Limbic retraining programs ( Primal Trust , Gupta Program) Vagal nerve stimulation Apollo Neuro wearable Ketamine-assisted therapy Psychedelic microdosing (emerging area) Breaking the mast-cell / nervous-system loop is often essential for healing. Women’s Health, PCOS & Autoimmune Illness Dr. Dempsey shares a critical insight: > In her practice, every PCOS patient also has MCAS. She explains how: Mast cells respond to estrogen, progesterone, insulin, and cortisol Hormonal fluctuations can trigger MCAS flares MCAS may underlie PMS, PMDD, endometriosis, and reproductive pain syndromes GLP-1 therapy may offer new hope for women suffering from inflammatory gynecologic symptoms linked to Lyme and MCAS. Advocacy, ILADS & The Future of MCAS Research Dr. Dempsey discusses her work with: ILADS (International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society) ISMCAS (International Society for Mast Cell Activation Syndrome) ISMCAS goals include: Funding MCAS research Educating clinicians globally Supporting patients and advocacy efforts She encourages patients to: Educate themselves Share credible research with providers Move on from doctors unwilling to listen Final Takeaway This episode redefines what root-cause medicine truly means. Healing chronic Lyme disease often requires addressing: Immune dysregulation Mast cell activation Nervous system dysfunction Hormonal imbalance Metabolic inflammation Dr. Tania Dempsey offers a roadmap — grounded in science, compassion, and innovation — for patients

In this special Tick Boot Camp Podcast conversation recorded for Dr. Bill Rawls’ Vital Plan Network as part of the Cellular Healing Boot Camp Series, Tick Boot Camp co-hosts Matt Sabatello and Rich Johannesen join Liza Blas (Vital Plan Network Community Manager) to unpack one of the most overlooked—but most transformative—parts of chronic illness recovery: rebuilding identity. This episode serves as a follow-up to Lesson 16 in the Boot Camp (watch full lesson) and expands the framework Rich introduced in the lesson—showing how chronic Lyme disease and complex chronic illness can dysregulate not only the body, but also the mind, nervous system, and sense of meaning and connection. Together, they explore the “patterns” they’ve observed through 650+ Tick Boot Camp interviews with patients, doctors, and researchers—and how those patterns point toward a more complete roadmap for healing.https://community.vitalplan.com/ What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why healing from chronic Lyme disease is rarely “just physical” The key recovery patterns observed across 650+ patient interviews How identity gets disrupted by chronic illness—and how to rebuild it The difference between faith vs. doubt as forms of belief The “Big Three Lies” that shape a harmful Lyme identity How the nervous system, stress hormones, and immune dysfunction feed each other Why “it’s never just one thing” when it comes to recovery Practical tools for hard days: breathwork, gratitude, pacing, and nervous system support A step-by-step “path forward” that includes physical, psychological, and spiritual healing Key Themes and Takeaways 1) The Tick Boot Camp Origin Story (and Why Patterns Matter) Rich shares the moment Tick Boot Camp was born: seeing Matt go from a healthy, high-performing young man to being severely disabled by chronic illness—then watching him fight his way back. That personal crisis, combined with Rich’s own tick bite and lack of competent medical guidance, revealed a hard truth: The real experts are the people who’ve lived the journey. Tick Boot Camp became a platform to capture what actually works in real life—through deep, long-form interviews that expose patterns you don’t see in short appointments or isolated protocols. 2) The Biggest Pattern: Recovery Requires More Than Medicine Matt explains one of the most important—and most triggering—lessons he had to accept: Chronic Lyme is not only a physical illness. It impacts your nervous system, psychology, relationships, and identity. He also highlights two massive recovery truths seen again and again: Believing you can heal matters, because hopelessness prevents action. It’s never one thing. Healing is cumulative—built through layered interventions over time. This isn’t “it’s all in your head.” It’s acknowledging that infection changes brain chemistry, stress responses, and perception—and that those changes must be addressed as part of recovery. 3) Tick Boot Camp's Framework: Three “Immune Systems” That Can Break Down Rich expands the “immune system must win the day” concept from Dr. Bill Rawls’ book Unlocking Lyme, and explains how it applies beyond the body. He argues many people experience a breakdown across three interconnected systems: Physical immune system: fatigue, pain, inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction Psychological immune system: stress response, nervous system dysregulation, belief filtering Spiritual immune system: purpose, meaning, connection, and “place in the world” The more systems involved, the more complex and longer the recovery journey can be. 4) Belief: A Two-Sided Coin (Faith vs. Doubt) Rich explains why his early messaging triggered Matt—and what finally clarified it: Belief isn’t something you either “have” or “don’t have” Belief is always present It comes in two forms: Faith: belief you’re more likely than not to get the outcome you want Doubt: belief you’re more likely than not to get the outcome you don’t want People enter the chronic illness journey carrying belief—but often it has been converted into doubt through repeated invalidation, medical dismissal, and prolonged suffering. 5) The Big Three Lies That Create “Lyme Identity” Across hundreds of interviews, Rich says the same three narratives appear repeatedly: “You don’t look sick.” “It’s all in your head.” “You can’t get better.” These lies—coming from doctors, family, society, and even internal self-talk—can form what Rich calls a “lie-dentity”: a false identity built from invalidation and survival-mode thinking. 6) Matt’s Personal Breakdown Across All Three Systems Matt describes how, in hindsight, he was dysregulated in all three systems: Spiritual/meaning: loss of connection, loneliness, relationships collapsing due to cognitive disability Psychological: new anxiety, doom, depression, fear, hyper-control while having no control Physical: severe neurological symptoms including seizures, tremors, hallucinations, inability to walk properly, and crushing fatigue He emphasizes therapy can be valuable—not because illness is imagined—but because anyone would struggle emotionally when their life collapses physically. Practical Recovery Tools Mentioned Nervous System Support and Emotional Bandwidth Matt shares that HPA Balance from Vital Plan became a turning point by calming his nervous system enough to safely pursue antimicrobial healing steps. He describes it as helping him feel “normal” again—creating the emotional bandwidth needed to keep going. He also mentions: Napiers Ashwagandha Root Tincture (Withania somnifera) Passionflower Tincture (Passiflora incarnata) Used as-needed when overstimulated, anxious, or overwhelmed. Cellular/Mitochondrial Recovery and Broad Support Matt outlines a layered approach aligned with Dr. Rawls’ cellular recovery philosophy, including: foundational supplementation adaptogenic support mitochondrial support broad-spectrum herbal antimicrobial support A Practical “Holiday” Tool Matt notes using chlorella as a personal strategy to offset inflammation after dietary triggers—supporting his ability to recover more quickly after “human moments” like holiday dessert. The Path Forward: A Simple Roadmap Rich’s recommendation for moving forward begins with something many people avoid: Step 1: Sit with it Reflect honestly on: What’s happening physically What’s happening emotionally (stress, fear, self-talk) What’s happening spiritually (meaning, connection, purpose) Step 2: Support the physical system with basics sleep diet gentle movement when possible consistent, realistic routines Step 3: Protect the psychological immune system from “lies” Recognize how invalidation can become internalized, and how survival-mode thinking can shut down healing physiology. Step 4: Rebuild meaning through service and connection Rich suggests small steps that re-establish purpose and belonging—especially for those who are still very sick. Even minimal action can restore identity and hope over time. Participate in LymeDisease.org's My Lyme Data Survey Volunteer with the Center for Lyme Action Volunteer with Lyme organizations, like Global Lyme Alliance, Project Lyme, and Lyme Warrior “When you have a bad day, how do you keep the faith?” Matt shares a practical approach: pause and breathe gratitude practice (family, progress, community, relationships) nervous system support tools when needed Rich adds: the brain can change negatively—but also positively—and building a recovery “toolbox” helps you stay stable through inevitable ups and downs. Why This Episode Matters Many chronic illness conversations focus narrowly on protocols, supplements, and symptom management. This conversation zooms out to address what chronic Lyme truly disrupts: identity, confidence, relationships, and the ability to trust yourself again. If you feel stuck, lost, or disconnected from who you were—or who you’re becoming—this episode offers a framework for understanding why that happens and how people rebuild from it. About Tick Boot Camp Tick Boot Camp is a Lyme disease awareness and recovery platform built around long-form conversations with the people who know the journey best: patients who have lived it, plus the doctors and researchers working to improve outcomes. With 650+ interviews, the show documents the common patterns behind recovery and resilience.

In this powerful and science-forward episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, host Matt Sabatello sits down with Amy Proal, PhD, a leading microbiologist whose work is reshaping how the medical community understands chronic Lyme disease, post-treatment Lyme disease (PTLD), ME/CFS, and Long COVID. Dr. Proal brings a rare combination of deep scientific expertise, lived experience with chronic illness, and real-world clinical integration, offering listeners clarity on why so many patients remain sick long after standard treatment ends — and what science is finally doing about it. 👩‍🔬 About Amy Proal, PhD Amy Proal, PhD, is an internationally recognized microbiologist specializing in the molecular mechanisms by which persistent pathogens alter human immunity, metabolism, and gene expression. She currently serves in two major leadership roles: President & Research Director, PolyBio Research Foundation Scientific Director, Cohen Center for Recovery from Complex Chronic Illness (CORE) at Mount Sinai Her work focuses on infection-associated chronic illness, including: Chronic Lyme disease & tick-borne co-infections Post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome (PTLD) ME/CFS Long COVID Dr. Proal is widely known for helping shift the scientific narrative away from psychosomatic explanations and toward biological root causes driven by persistent infection and immune dysregulation. 🧬 PolyBio Research Foundation: Rewriting the Science of Chronic Illness Dr. Proal co-founded PolyBio Research Foundation in 2018 alongside neuroscientist Dr. Michael VanElzakker, after recognizing that most chronic illness research ignored root cause biology, particularly infection. What Makes PolyBio Different Led by scientists, not administrators Focused on tissue-based research, not just blood tests Actively recruits researchers from HIV, tuberculosis, and virology fields to study Lyme and ME/CFS Designs research programs before fundraising, ensuring scientific rigor PolyBio has played a major role in advancing research on: Pathogen persistence in human tissue Hidden reservoirs of infection Why standard diagnostics often fail 🏥 Cohen Center for Recovery from Complex Chronic Illness (CORE) Dr. Proal also serves as Scientific Director of the Cohen Center for Recovery from Complex Chronic Illness (CORE) at Mount Sinai in New York City. CORE’s Mission Treat patients with Long COVID and chronic tick-borne illness within an insurance-based system Integrate clinical care with active research and clinical trials Establish new standards of care for infection-associated chronic disease At CORE, Dr. Proal helps design studies that leverage real patient visits — asking critical questions such as: Where is the pathogen hiding? What tissues are affected? What immune pathways are disrupted? 🧠 Persistent Infection & Why Blood Tests Fail A central theme of the episode is that chronic infection is often a tissue-based disease, not a blood-based one. Dr. Proal explains: Pathogens like Borrelia (Lyme) and SARS-CoV-2 actively avoid the bloodstream Blood is heavily patrolled by immune cells — tissue offers protection Absence of evidence in blood ≠ absence of infection This helps explain why: Lyme disease often goes undetected by standard serology Patients remain symptomatic despite “negative tests” Tissue biopsies and advanced imaging are essential for progress 🧬 Molecular Mimicry: How Infection Triggers Autoimmune Symptoms Dr. Proal provides a clear explanation of molecular mimicry, a key mechanism linking infection and autoimmunity. What Is Molecular Mimicry? Pathogens produce proteins that closely resemble human proteins The immune system attacks the pathogen — and accidentally attacks the body This creates autoimmune-like disease, even though infection is the trigger This mechanism helps explain: Why immune suppression may reduce symptoms but worsen disease Why many autoimmune diagnoses may actually be infection-driven Why treating the pathogen matters, not just calming the immune system 🔁 Successive Infection: Why Some Patients Get Sicker Than Others A major insight from this episode is Dr. Proal’s concept of successive infection. Rather than genetics alone, she suggests severity is often driven by: Prior infections (Lyme, Bartonella, Babesia, viruses) Environmental exposures (mold, toxins) Physical trauma (concussions, brain injury) Each “hit” dysregulates the immune system, making the next infection harder to clear — a cumulative burden that explains why: Some people become severely ill from Lyme Others remain asymptomatic despite repeated tick exposure 🧠 Neurological Lyme, the Brain & the Vagus Nerve Dr. Proal discusses multiple ways Lyme and infections affect the nervous system: Direct CNS Infection Pathogens crossing the blood–brain barrier Microglial activation causing neuroinflammation Indirect Neurological Signaling Infection in the gut, heart, or lungs activating the vagus nerve nearby Direct infection of the vagus nerve with Lyme Brainstem signaling triggering fatigue, pain, dysautonomia, and brain fog This dual-pathway model explains why neurological symptoms can occur even without detectable brain infection. 🧫 Tissue, Imaging & the Future of Diagnostics One of the most exciting parts of the episode covers next-generation diagnostics, including: Tissue biopsies (gut, lymph nodes, nerve, synovium) Ultra-sensitive molecular detection Immune cell exhaustion markers (e.g., PD-1) Advanced imaging that can map pathogens in the body Dr. Proal explains how future tools may: Identify not just presence , but activity of infection Distinguish nervous system involvement Enable targeted clinical trials and personalized treatment 🧠 Infection, Alzheimer’s & Neurodegenerative Disease Dr. Proal also discusses compelling research linking infection to Alzheimer’s disease, including evidence that: Amyloid plaques may be part of the innate immune response Plaques form around viral, bacterial, and fungal pathogens Removing amyloid alone fails because it ignores root cause This framework aligns with decades of overlooked research connecting Lyme, herpesviruses, and neurodegeneration. 🌱 Hope for the Lyme & Chronic Illness Community Dr. Proal closes the episode with optimism, highlighting: Rapid advances in diagnostics Better-designed clinical trials Increasing collaboration across institutions A long-overdue shift toward biological validation Her message is clear: Patients were right. Science is finally catching up. 🔑 Key Topics Covered Chronic Lyme disease Post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome (PTLD) Persistent Borrelia infection Molecular mimicry and autoimmunity Successive infection model Long COVID pathogen persistence Tissue-based diagnostics Neurological Lyme disease Vagus nerve and dysautonomia Cohen Center for Recovery from Complex Chronic Illness PolyBio Research Foundation

In this groundbreaking episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, we interview Dr. Jayakumar Rajadas, a Stanford Medicine researcher who has discovered multiple breakthrough therapeutic candidates for Lyme disease, Babesia, and Bartonella. His work includes the discovery of Disulfiram’s effectiveness against Lyme and Babesia, Azlocillin’s potent activity against Lyme and Bartonella, and advanced targeted drug-delivery systems designed to preserve the gut microbiome. Dr. Jay's research has been featured in TIME Magazine (Azlocillin) and Forbes (Disulfiram), and connects deeply with the work of leading Lyme researchers, including Dr. Monica Embers (Tulane), Dr. Kim Lewis (Northeastern), Dr. Kenneth Liegner, and Dr. Brian Fallon (Columbia University). This interview delivers hope, science, and unprecedented detail on what may become the next generation of Lyme disease treatments. Key Topics Covered 1. How the Stanford Tick Initiative Sparked a New Era of Drug Discovery In 2012, Stanford launched a major initiative in response to community demand for better Lyme treatments. Dr. Rajadas was selected to lead drug development, focusing specifically on persistent/chronic Lyme disease, where few researchers were working. 2. Understanding Borrelia: Active vs. Stationary Forms & Why Chronic Lyme Persists Dr. J explains the three key survival modes of Borrelia burgdorferi: Active Phase The bacteria are replicating and metabolically active. Easier to kill with standard antibiotics. Stationary Phase Bacteria reach population limits and slow down growth. Represents early persistence mechanisms. Persister Forms Triggered by stressors like antibiotics (e.g., doxycycline). Bacteria fold into round bodies, spiral forms, or compact “cement-like” protective balls. These forms: Shut down metabolic pathways Resist penetration Survive antibiotic exposure Why Doxycycline Can Fail Doxycycline can induce persisters, causing Borrelia to form impenetrable protective shells rather than die. This is why many patients initially feel better, then relapse. 3. Disulfiram (Antabuse): Lyme + Babesia Breakthrough Featured in Forbes One of the biggest scientific shocks of the last decade: Discovery Through Stanford’s high-throughput screening of FDA-approved drugs, Disulfiram emerged as a top hit. Clears Borrelia (including persistent forms) Clears Babesia — a major advantage over standard antibiotics Does NOT harm the gut microbiome Is already FDA-approved and widely used for alcohol aversion therapy Highly potent but requires careful dosing due to side effects in inflamed patients. Why Some Patients Improve, and Others Suffer Chronic Lyme patients already have heightened inflammation. Disulfiram is a powerful molecule whose polymorphic forms behave differently in different people. His lab developed: Less toxic formulations Buccal & sublingual delivery systems Rectal delivery options These may reduce neuropsychiatric side effects reported by some patients. Clinical Connections Dr. Kenneth Liegner pioneered clinical use and published cases Dr. Brian Fallon conducted NIH-listed clinical trials. Many clinicians now use Liegner’s protocols. Real-world example: Matt shares the story of Brooke Stoddard (Generation Lyme), who regained his life after Disulfiram treatment under Dr. Liegner. 4. Azlocillin: The Antibiotic That TIME Magazine Called a Gamechanger If Disulfiram is the Lyme and Babesia weapon, Azlocillin may be the frontline tool for Lyme and Bartonella. Why Azlocillin Is Revolutionary Eradicates both active and persister forms of Borrelia. Destroys doxycycline-induced “cement ball” persisters by drilling into their vulnerable cell-wall synthesis pathways. Proven effective against Bartonella when paired with azithromycin, based on research by Dr. Monica Embers (Tulane) . The Cell-Wall Vulnerability Breakthrough Persisters STILL must maintain minimal cell-wall synthesis to survive. Azlocillin exploits this tiny vulnerability: It penetrates the protective sphere Breaks the “cement wall” Forces the bacteria out of hibernation Kills them rapidly This discovery is one of the biggest scientific leaps in Lyme research in a decade. The Delivery System That Protects the Gut Microbiome Azlocillin is extremely hydrophilic, making absorption difficult.Dr. Jay fixed this by creating: A magnesium-lipid nanoparticle formulation Designed to release in the upper intestine Avoiding the colon (where most microbiome lives) This allows: High bloodstream absorption Minimal microbiome damage Oral availability of a drug previously only available via IV Why Azlocillin May Be Better Than Disulfiram Hits Borrelia + Bartonella Stronger anti-inflammatory effects No polymorphism issues Fewer side effects Potent against persisters A company is preparing to bring his oral formulation to clinical trials by next year. 5. Loratadine (Claritin): The First Clue from 2012 Before Disulfiram and Azlocillin, Dr. Jay’s lab identified Loratadine (Claritin) as a manganese transporter inhibitor of Borrelia. Why it mattered: Borrelia uniquely relies on manganese, not iron. Blocking manganese uptake may weaken the bacteria. The discovery went viral, with many patients reporting improvement even at OTC doses—though the binding affinity was weak. This project introduced the concept of drug repurposing for Lyme to the scientific community. 6. Melittin (Bee Venom) — The Micro-Needle Patch Alternative Bee venom therapy is widely used in the Lyme community, but risks stings and allergic reactions. Dr. J is developing: Melittin micro-needle patches Delivering the active peptide without stinging Using dissolvable, painless needles A safe, controlled, pharmaceutical-grade delivery approach This could modernize bee venom therapy and make it more accessible. 7. Mechanism of Brain Fog & Fatigue in Lyme: A Major Breakthrough Dr. Jay’s lab published a neuroscience paper demonstrating: Outer Surface Protein (Osp) Nanoparticles Borrelia sheds lipid-coated outer membrane particles. These form stable nano-vesicles that: Enter the bloodstream Cross into the brain Cause mitochondrial dysfunction Reduce ATP production Result: Brain Fog, Fatigue, Cognitive Dysfunction This explains why neurological Lyme can persist even after bacterial levels drop. This work ties strongly to ongoing research at Columbia University under Dr. Brian Fallon. 8. Collaborations With World Leaders in Lyme Research Dr. J’s research intersects with: Dr. Kim Lewis (Northeastern University) Reproduced and validated Disulfiram findings publicly. Helped launch interest in persister-killing therapies. Dr. Monica Embers (Tulane University) Demonstrated Azlocillin + Azithromycin effectiveness against Bartonella. One of the world’s foremost experts in persistent infection models. Dr. Kenneth Liegner Early clinical pioneer of Disulfiram therapy. Published stunning recovery cases. Dr. Brian A. Fallon (Columbia University) Leading psychiatrist specializing in post-treatment Lyme. Conducted planned Disulfiram clinical trials. These collaborations form a powerful network accelerating treatment development. 9. New Anti-Inflammatory Discoveries: Galangin & More Dr. Jay recently co-authored a 2025 paper on: Galangin (Thai ginger rhizome extract) Which may reverse cardiac inflammation and fibrosis His team is also exploring other nutraceutical molecules for chronic inflammation relief in Lyme patients. 10. Dr. Jay’s Personal Story of Illness and Hope He reveals for the first time: He was diagnosed with Stage 3 Multiple Myeloma Lost the ability to walk Suffered unbearable pain After cutting-edge therapies and research, he is now in full remission His message to Lyme patients: “There is ALWAYS hope.”

Dr. Bobbi S. Pritt joins Tick Boot Camp Podcast for a scientific deep dive into Lyme disease diagnostics, co-infections, and emerging tick-borne pathogens. Dr. Pritt is Professor and Chair of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology at Mayo Clinic and Director of the Clinical Parasitology Laboratory in Rochester, Minnesota. An internationally recognized expert in vector-borne diseases, she is globally known for discovering new tick-borne pathogens—including Borrelia mayonii and Ehrlichia muris eauclairensis—and for advancing cutting-edge molecular and metagenomic diagnostic testing used nationwide. This episode offers essential clarity for anyone navigating Lyme disease, unexplained symptoms, or confusing test results. Dr. Pritt explains why standard tests often miss early Lyme, how PCR and molecular tools can detect active infection, and what metagenomic sequencing may offer for more accurate and comprehensive diagnostics in the future. Episode Summary Dr. Pritt breaks down how Lyme and other tick-borne diseases are detected through antibody testing, PCR, tissue analysis, and cutting-edge molecular methods. She explains how her lab discovered multiple new pathogens in the upper Midwest, the role of tick species in disease transmission, and why co-infections complicate diagnosis. This conversation also explores geographic spread, climate change, tick behavior, and the strengths and limitations of today’s test algorithms. Key Topics • Discovery of Borrelia mayonii as a second cause of Lyme disease in the U.S. • Identification and characterization of Ehrlichia muris eauclairensis • Geographic hotspots and why the upper Midwest produces unique pathogens • Tick species differences: blacklegged vs. lone star ticks and their hunting strategies • Co-feeding in ticks and its role in pathogen evolution • Why early Lyme tests often return false-negative results • The science behind false positives and cross-reactivity • PCR advantages and limitations for detecting Borrelia • When skin biopsies can outperform blood tests • Differentiating Lyme, B. miyamotoi, Anaplasma, Babesia, and Powassan virus • When clinicians should order a full tick-borne disease panel • How climate and ecological changes drive new tick-borne threats • The promise of metagenomics and immune-signature diagnostics What You’ll Learn • Why current Lyme testing algorithms struggle in early infection • How new tick-borne pathogens are discovered and validated • Why lone star ticks are more aggressive and changing regional risk • When and why molecular testing is more effective • What symptoms point to co-infections needing additional testing • Why doxycycline is not effective for certain pathogens like Babesia • How metagenomic sequencing could identify every pathogen in a single sample • Where diagnostic innovation is heading and what patients can expect

What makes Lyme disease resolve quickly in some people but turn into a life-altering chronic illness in others? In this episode, world-leading immunologist Dr. Michal “Mikki” Tal, Principal Scientist at MIT, explains what her team is discovering through the MAESTRO Study — the largest clinical research project in MIT’s history and the first of its kind to include real Lyme patients in a multi-system biological analysis. Dr. Tal’s work sits at the intersection of immunology, bioengineering, and women’s health, uncovering how infections like Lyme and COVID can cause persistent inflammation, immune miscommunication, and hormonal imbalance. Through MAESTRO, she’s mapping how recovery breaks down — and what can be done to predict, prevent, and ultimately reverse chronic illness. 👩‍🔬 About Dr. Tal Dr. Michal “Mikki” Caspi Tal, PhD Principal Scientist, MIT Department of Biological Engineering Associate Scientific Director, MIT Center for Gynepathology Research Head, Tal Research Group A Yale-trained immunologist (PhD under Dr. Akiko Iwasaki) and former Stanford researcher in Dr. Irving Weissman’s lab, Dr. Tal specializes in infection-associated chronic illnesses. She has received NIH NIAID fellowships and the Bay Area Lyme Foundation Emerging Leader Award for her pioneering research on the immune mechanisms linking Lyme disease, Long COVID, and chronic inflammation. 🧬 What You’ll Learn 1. Why 10% of People Don’t Recover from Lyme Roughly 90% of Lyme patients recover after antibiotic treatment — but 10% continue to experience long-term symptoms. Dr. Tal explains that this is not psychological; it’s biological. In these individuals, the immune system’s “off switch” fails, leading to chronic inflammation, tissue injury, and immune exhaustion — a state she calls catastrophic recovery failure. 2. The MAESTRO Study: Measuring Absolutely Everything MAESTRO (Mucosal And systEmic Signatures Triggered by Responses to infectious Organisms) integrates advanced biology, neuroscience, and patient experience. Participants provide: Blood, saliva, urine, and swab samples for immune and microbiome profiling EEG brainwave tests (WAVi), eye-tracking (RightEye), and cognitive testing (BrainCheck) NASA Lean Test for autonomic dysfunction (POTS) and capillaroscopy to visualize microvascular flow Evie Ring wearable tracking sleep, heart rate, and oxygen Plainly: MAESTRO maps the connection between what patients feel and what’s happening biologically inside their brains, blood, and immune systems. 3. Sex-Based Immunity and Hormonal Differences Every immune cell carries receptors for estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. These hormones literally change how the immune system responds. Men: more severe acute infections. Women: more likely to survive but develop chronic post-infectious illness. This isn’t “in their heads” — it’s a biological trade-off built into human evolution. 4. Lyme and Reproductive Health Dr. Tal’s group uncovered Borrelia (Lyme bacteria) in the uterus and bladder of infected animal models, and population studies show a twofold increase in gynecologic conditions (like endometriosis and PCOS) after Lyme infection, even post-treatment. This challenges the old view of Lyme as a joint or nerve disease — revealing it as a whole-body infection that can affect reproductive and hormonal health. 5. Immune Checkpoints: How Borrelia Hits the Brakes The immune system uses checkpoint molecules as brakes to avoid self-destruction. Dr. Tal found that Borrelia’s P66 protein can engage SIRP-alpha, a human “stop signal,” effectively telling the immune system to stand down too soon. This immune hijacking may explain persistent infection and the biological differences in recovery between men and women. 6. Collagen, Mast Cells, and Hypermobility Many chronic Lyme patients report joint laxity or Ehlers-Danlos-like symptoms. Dr. Tal’s research shows Borrelia can reside within collagen-rich tissues, provoking mast cells (inflammatory immune cells) to attack both the bacteria and the body’s connective tissue — weakening ligaments, causing pain, and perpetuating inflammation. 7. Allergy-Type Immune Reactions to Bacteria Around one-third of chronic Lyme patients produce IgE antibodies (normally linked to allergies) against Borrelia and oral spirochetes such as Treponema denticola. In simple terms: the immune system becomes “allergic” to its own bacteria, keeping inflammation alive even after infection clears. 8. Brain Biomarkers: Reaction Time and Neuroinflammation By using EEG and eye-tracking technology, the MAESTRO study reveals that people with chronic Lyme and Long COVID have measurably slower reaction times — a neurological signature of inflammation that validates patient-reported “brain fog.” The data prove that cognitive slowdown is not subjective — it’s an objective biomarker of neuroinflammatory illness. 9. Predicting Chronic Illness Before It Happens The ultimate goal: identify the biological patterns that forecast who will develop chronic Lyme. Using multi-omics (proteomics, metabolomics, genomics) integrated with functional tests, Dr. Tal’s team aims to create the first predictive diagnostic framework for infection-associated chronic disease. 🧠 Key Quotes “MAESTRO stands for Measure Absolutely Everything. That’s how we make invisible illness visible.” “Every immune cell listens to hormones. That’s why recovery looks different between men and women.” “Borrelia can tap the immune system’s brakes — that’s how it survives.” “Reaction time is data. It’s what brain fog looks like when you can finally measure it.” 🧩 The Big Picture Dr. Tal’s work bridges hard science and patient reality, validating what millions of Lyme patients have felt for decades. Her data suggest that chronic Lyme disease, Long COVID, and similar conditions share a common root: a failure of immune resolution. By decoding these patterns, her team is paving the way for real diagnostics, targeted treatments, and renewed hope. 🧪 Participate The Tal Research Group's MAESTRO program is seeking Chronic Lyme Disease and Acute Lyme Disease patients to participate in their large clinical study. Participants provide samples and complete neurological and physiological testing at baseline, 6-month, and 12-month visits. Visit Tal Research Group MAESTRO website to learn more or be connected with the MAESTRO research team.

In this episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, Matt Sabatello sits down with Yuri Kim, the lead clinical research nurse for MIT’s MAESTRO study, described as one of the largest studies in MIT history focused on Lyme disease and Infection-Associated Chronic Illnesses (IACI). Yuri explains how MAESTRO is collecting deep symptom histories and objective measurements—from eye tracking and EEG/P300 auditory testing to NASA Lean dysautonomia testing, capillaroscopy, and multi-sample biological collection—to identify patterns that validate patient experiences and accelerate real-world clinical understanding. Yuri’s story is equally compelling: she began as an ER nurse in a Level 1 trauma center, transitioned into research nursing (including neurodegenerative and traumatic brain injury work), moved to South Korea during the pandemic, and ultimately joined MIT after a conversation with Dr. Mikki Tal changed the course of her career. Throughout the conversation, Yuri shares what she’s learned from MAESTRO participants: a community often exhausted and dismissed, yet profoundly motivated to help others and drive scientific progress forward. Key Takeaways (Fast Scan) MAESTRO is nearing ~200 participants enrolled, with the chronic Lyme cohort full and enrollment closing soon. The study aims to objectively measure symptoms often dismissed as “anxiety” or “depression,” especially brain fog and dysautonomia. MAESTRO uses multiple cognitive and neurologic measures, including RightEye eye tracking, EEG + P300 auditory “oddball” testing, and remote cognitive battery tests. The team added capillaroscopy (nailfold and toe microvascular imaging) to explore vascular patterns and hemorrhages in chronic illness cohorts. Dysautonomia testing includes NASA Lean Test plus an earpiece device to estimate proxy cerebral blood flow, sometimes showing abnormalities even when vitals look “normal.” Extensive biological sampling (oral, blood, vaginal/rectal) supports proteomics/immune profiling and deeper molecular analysis. Yuri emphasizes: patients’ willingness to participate—despite severe symptoms—is the engine of progress and future change. Detailed Chapter-by-Chapter Show Notes 1) Meet Yuri Kim: The Human Side of Cutting-Edge Lyme Research Matt introduces Yuri as the clinical research nurse leading day-to-day operations of MIT’s MAESTRO study—positioning her as a rare bridge between lab science, clinicians, and patients. Yuri shares that the study is approaching enrollment completion and that the team is eager to analyze a large dataset to “speak up” for participants who have suffered without clear explanations. Highlights: MAESTRO is one of MIT’s largest studies, with enrollment nearing completion. The mission is to transform patient suffering into measurable signals, data, and insight. 2) Yuri’s Background: Pharma, ER Nursing, Research, and Why This Work Became Personal Yuri explains her path: early work as a medical information specialist in pharma (including literature searches and clinician guidance, often involving off-label questions), then an intense period as a Level 1 ER nurse where she witnessed both acute crises and chronic illness desperation. Key insight:Yuri notes that in pharma and ER settings, she repeatedly saw the same reality—patients searching for answers, clinicians constrained by time, and chronic illness voices falling through the cracks. 3) From the ER to Neuro Research: Brain Inflammation, TBI, and the Gap in Chronic Illness Care Yuri left ER work largely due to the physical toll of night shifts and moved into academic research at Boston University. She worked on complex studies involving Alzheimer’s, amyloidosis, and traumatic brain injury. Matt asks whether Lyme came up in those neuro settings. Yuri says no—but now she views neurodegenerative symptoms differently and believes clinicians should consider underlying root causes, including infection. Listener connection:This segment reinforces how often Lyme-related cognitive decline can be misinterpreted or missed when viewed through siloed specialties. 4) Lyme Awareness Outside the U.S.: South Korea, Tick-Borne Illness, and Global Blind Spots During the pandemic, Yuri relocated to South Korea. She shares that Lyme isn’t commonly discussed there, though other tick-borne illnesses exist. Yuri underscores a global concern: agricultural and rural communities face tick exposure without awareness of the chronic implications. 5) How Yuri Joined Dr. Mikki Tal and MAESTRO (And Why She Changed Her Mind) One of the most memorable segments: Yuri reveals she had already accepted another MIT nursing role—but after speaking with Dr. Tal, she pivoted immediately, calling it the best career decision she’s ever made. Why it matters: It shows how MAESTRO is not just a study; it’s a mission-driven effort that attracts top clinical talent. 6) Day One at MAESTRO: Meeting the Severely Ill and the Community’s Unmatched Generosity Yuri recounts a powerful early experience: meeting a participant who was bedbound and profoundly symptomatic, yet eager to contribute anything possible to help the community. Matt connects this to Tick Boot Camp’s origin story: people with minimal energy still showed up to help others. The theme becomes clear—Lyme patients are often depleted but relentlessly generous. What MAESTRO Measures (The Four-Hour Visit Breakdown) 7) Brain Fog: Why MAESTRO Treats It as a Complex Phenomenon Yuri explains MAESTRO’s approach: brain fog isn’t one symptom. It can involve memory, processing speed, visual stimulation sensitivity, pain-triggered cognition changes, and motor response delays. Core idea: MAESTRO attempts to measure brain fog from multiple angles—visual processing, auditory processing, reaction time, and executive function. 8) RightEye Eye Tracking: Visual Stimulus + Reaction Time as Objective Signal Participants complete a structured set of ocular motor tasks (pursuit, saccades) and reaction-time games (shape recognition mapped to numbered inputs). Yuri notes many chronic illness participants struggle even with basic saccades, often aligning with reported visual disturbances. What MAESTRO is measuring: Ocular motor control Visual processing Decision speed Reaction time consistency 9) EEG + P300 “Oddball” Test: Auditory Processing Meets Motor Output Participants wear an EEG cap (19 regions) and listen to tones: common low-pitch and rare high-pitch. They must press the spacebar only for the rare tone. Yuri notes that even a 4-minute test can be exhausting for people with cognitive dysfunction, and participants often describe a frustrating “delay” between knowing what to do and physically doing it. Why this matters: This may help validate cognitive dysfunction even when standard office screening looks normal. 10) Remote Cognitive Battery Testing: Scaling Measurement Beyond MIT Participants complete executive function tests at home (memory, Stroop-like color-word matching, trail-making tasks). Yuri emphasizes why this matters: many patients can’t travel, and symptoms vary dramatically by day, cycle, and crash patterns. Big future direction: Remote testing could expand access to bedbound patients and capture “good day vs bad day” variability. 11) Dysautonomia & POTS: NASA Lean Test + Proxy Cerebral Blood Flow Yuri details NASA Lean testing: supine rest, then standing/leaning while monitoring vitals and symptoms. The standout: sometimes vitals appear stable while patients feel intensely symptomatic—yet the cerebral blood flow proxy measurement fluctuates significantly. Clinical implication discussed: This approach could become a tool for identifying dysautonomia-related issues when standard vitals “look fine.” 12) Capillaroscopy: Nailfold + Toe Microvascular Imaging MAESTRO added capillaroscopy to examine microvascular patterns, including abnormal shapes and possible hemorrhages seen more frequently in chronic cohorts (as her clinical observations suggest). They also measure capillaries pre- and post-NASA Lean to explore whether symptomatic shifts correlate with microvascular changes. Why patients find it meaningful: They can visually see something measurable that aligns with how they feel. 13) Standard Neuro Screening Doesn’t Capture Lyme Brain Fog Yuri shares a crucial point: participants often perform fine on standard screens like the Mini-Mental State Exam, suggesting that infection-associated cognitive dysfunction can be subtle, dynamic, and not detected by traditional tools—reinforcing the need for MAESTRO-style measurement. Biological Samples: “Measure Everything” (Head to Toe) 14) Multi-Sample Collection: Oral, Blood, Vaginal, Rectal Yuri explains the breadth of biological sampling, including saliva/oral samples (cotton chew + gum swab), multiple blood tubes, and sex-specific sampling to explore immune, hormonal, microbiome, and gynecologic dimensions. Why it’s being done: To connect symptom clusters to molecular patterns and explore sex differences in chronic illness response. 15) Storage, Batch Effects, and What Happens After Enrollment Closes Samples are aliquoted and stored at -80°C until they can be processed/shipped in ways that minimize batch effects. The next phase is analysis and collaboration—including proteomics and immune signaling exploration. 16) Giving Back to Participants: The Challenge and the Intention Yuri acknowledges the “fine line” between research-only testing and clinically actionable reporting, but stresses MIT’s intention to return what can be responsibly shared through certified partners—while being careful not to over-interpret research findings. Collaboration, Scaling, and What Comes Next 17) Collaboration Across Institutions: The Missing Platform Matt compares Lyme research needs to cybersecurity threat-sharing between banks: competitors collaborate because the threat is bigger than any one organization. Yuri agrees and highlights the need for secure data-sharing platforms—similar to large national efforts in other fields. 18) What’s Next: Focus on Female Brain Fog, Hormones, and Remote Studies Yuri previews upcoming directions: Brain fog and hormone cycle relationships Differentiating infection-associated cognitive dysfunction vs menopause-related brain fog Remote/at-home measurement studies to reach more symptomatic and bedbound patients Potential collaborations with pediatric and neuroimmune experts Closing Message: Hope Without Hype Yuri’s message to patients and families is simple and emotional: “Please don’t give up.” She believes answers are coming because serious teams are working together—and because patients are driving the research forward with their participation.

Mary Beth Pfeiffer, the pioneering investigative journalist who transformed national understanding of Lyme disease, joins the Tick Boot Camp Podcast for a landmark conversation. Before her work, Lyme disease was widely dismissed as rare, mild, and easily treated. After her reporting, that narrative collapsed. Through her award-winning journalism and her groundbreaking book Lyme: The First Epidemic of Climate Change, she became the first major voice to expose the truth: Lyme disease is a global, climate-driven epidemic that is chronically misdiagnosed, dangerously underestimated, and systematically mishandled by mainstream medicine. In this interview, Mary Beth shares how her earlier investigative work on mental illness in U.S. jails prepared her to recognize patterns of institutional failure within the Lyme disease system. For decades, she documented how people with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia were misunderstood, punished, or dismissed by the very institutions meant to protect them. When she turned her attention to Lyme in 2012, she immediately recognized the same dynamic: patients with neurological and psychiatric manifestations were told they were anxious, depressed, or “crazy,” rather than infected. Families were blamed, symptoms were minimized, and children were left to suffer. Her background gave her a rare lens into how biological illness becomes mislabeled as psychological and how systems silence the very people who need help. Mary Beth explains how her investigative series for the Poughkeepsie Journal went viral worldwide, surprising even her editors. Her reporting was read in all 50 states and across Europe and Australia, prompting the CDC to contact her directly. She details what she uncovered through Freedom of Information Act requests, including internal emails between NIH and CDC officials referring to patients as “Lyme loonies” and framing the situation as a “war” against advocates. These documents revealed attitudes inside the highest levels of public health that shaped decades of policy, diagnostic guidelines, and patient care. The conversation dives into how a small group of early Lyme researchers defined the disease in the 1980s and then used their influence to control medical journals, shape NIH grant funding, and enforce rigid IDSA treatment guidelines. As Mary Beth explains, these early assumptions—often based on limited data and flawed antibody tests—became dogma. Their conclusions created an ecosystem where only short-course antibiotics were considered acceptable, chronic symptoms were dismissed, and doctors who treated beyond the guidelines were punished by medical boards. The result was a generation of patients abandoned by the system, forced to self-fund care, travel to distant specialists, and in many cases bankrupt themselves in search of answers. Mary Beth discusses how patients became her greatest teachers. She shares emotional stories, including children who lost years of their lives, athletes whose careers were derailed, and an 11-year-old boy misdiagnosed for so long he ended up in a hospital bed in his living room before finally being rescued by Dr. Charles Ray Jones. She describes support groups filled with people who had seen five, ten, or fifteen doctors and were told their symptoms were anxiety, depression, or “anything but Lyme.” The interview covers the scientific evidence supporting Lyme persistence, including animal studies, autopsy tissue findings, and molecular research showing Borrelia surviving standard treatment. Mary Beth explains why the two-tier antibody test has failed generations of patients, why indirect antibody tests are inherently flawed for immune-dysregulated populations, and why the future of accurate diagnosis depends on direct detection methods. She highlights emerging technologies, including promising work by Aces Diagnostics and Researcher Holly Ahern, which may finally offer accurate testing across all stages of infection. The conversation moves into the larger systemic problem: how money, insurance policies, medical boards, industry influence, and journal gatekeeping have shaped what doctors are allowed to do. Mary Beth and the Tick Boot Camp team explore why clinicians who try to help chronic Lyme patients often lose insurance coverage, face board complaints, or have their licenses threatened. They discuss how electronic monitoring, AI systems, and corporate-owned medical practices further restrict doctors from practicing individualized, patient-centered medicine. The second half of the interview focuses on the environmental drivers behind the explosion of Lyme disease. Mary Beth explains how warming temperatures, shorter winters, and ecological fragmentation have created ideal habitats for ticks. She describes how ticks have climbed mountains, expanded into higher latitudes, colonized suburban landscapes, and gained longer active seasons. These environmental changes, combined with human development patterns, have dramatically increased opportunities for exposure. She also addresses public interest in the bioweapons question raised by Chris Newby’s book Bitten, explaining why historical documentation and FOIA evidence convinced her that military tick experiments occurred, even if their impact on today’s epidemic is still unknown. The episode closes with Mary Beth’s reflections on prevention, vigilance, and the psychological cost of losing the innocence of nature. She describes how she now sees fields, forests, and even yards differently and why she teaches her grandchildren to treat nature with both respect and caution. She shares her hope for the future: better diagnostics, more independent research, journalists willing to challenge medical orthodoxy, and a cultural shift that frees doctors to practice real medicine rather than rigid algorithms. This interview is essential listening for anyone affected by Lyme disease, anyone questioning why chronic illness is so often dismissed, and anyone seeking to understand how climate change, medical politics, and investigative journalism intersect in one of the most important health crises of our time.

In this powerful and deeply moving episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, we sit down with Julia Bruzzese, a 22-year-old Lyme disease survivor, disability advocate, and future physician whose life was forever changed by an untreated tick bite in childhood. After developing a classic bull’s-eye rash at age 9, Julia went undiagnosed for nearly two years, despite textbook symptoms of Lyme disease. By age 11, she experienced a catastrophic neurological decline that left her paraplegic and wheelchair-bound. Over the next decade, Julia saw more than 100 doctors, endured profound medical gaslighting, and navigated an exhausting journey through antibiotics, IVIG, IV antibiotics, plasmapheresis, stem cells, ozone therapy, and integrative care. Julia’s story became internationally known after a moment with Pope Francis on the JFK airport tarmac went viral in 2015—an event that opened doors to care, advocacy, and awareness. She later became the emotional centerpiece of the award-winning documentary The Quiet Epidemic, appeared at New York Fashion Week as a Lyme disease advocate, and was profiled by renowned journalist Mary Beth Pfeiffer. Today, Julia is finishing her undergraduate degree and has been accepted into medical school, determined to become the kind of doctor she needed when the system failed her. This episode is a masterclass in: Pediatric Lyme disease Medical gaslighting vs. lack of education Clinical diagnosis vs. unreliable testing The patient-doctor relationship Chronic illness, disability, and purpose Why Lyme disease changes lives—and why early treatment matters Childhood Lyme Disease & Missed Diagnosis Tick bite and bull’s-eye rash dismissed at age 9 Two years of worsening symptoms labeled as “growing pains,” viruses, or psychological Why early Lyme treatment saves lives Neurological Collapse & Hospital Trauma Sudden onset of paralysis, vision loss, fevers, hair loss, and weakness at age 11 Over 100 doctors and repeated hospitalizations Being accused of malingering and conversion disorder The devastating impact of medical disbelief on children The Quiet Epidemic Documentary How Julia became the heart of the film at age 12 Why she initially hesitated to share her story The emotional impact of seeing her illness reflected on screen How the documentary helps families explain Lyme disease to others Meeting Pope Francis & Global Awareness How a school principal secured last-minute tickets The Pope walks directly to Julia’s wheelchair The moment that changed everything Media coverage that led to access to lifesaving care Treatment Journey Lyme-literate diagnosis by NP Somer DelSignore Oral and IV antibiotics IVIG (including under-dosing issues) Plasmapheresis POTS, Babesia, Bartonella, and autoimmune complications Stem cell therapy abroad Ozone and integrative protocols Why there is no single silver bullet for Lyme disease The Medical System & Lyme Denial Why doctors often say “it’s all in your head” The difference between malice and lack of training How medical education fails chronic illness patients Fear of insurance companies, lawsuits, and “accepted guidelines” Why Lyme is a clinical diagnosis, not a test result Reframing “Medical Gaslighting” Why anger is understandable—but not always healing How patients and doctors can become better partners Understanding doctors’ limitations without excusing harm Advocacy with clarity, not hostility Disability, Identity & Resilience Navigating life and education as a wheelchair user Accommodations, accessibility, and invisible illness “I have Lyme. I am not Lyme.” Learning when to rest, when to fight, and when to live Becoming the Doctor She Needed Working as a medical assistant and hospital volunteer in a wheelchair Applying to and being accepted into medical school Becoming the first wheelchair-using medical student at her institution Why lived experience belongs in medicine Medical Malpractice Lawsuit Lawsuit filed in NYC (March 2021) against multiple doctors and hospitals Failure to diagnose and treat Lyme disease despite clear evidence Why Lyme malpractice cases are rare—and necessary Seeking accountability, not revenge Purpose, Faith & Meaning From “Why me?” to “Why not me?” How suffering clarified her calling The role of faith, family, and community Why Julia wouldn’t give this journey back—even now Memorable Quotes “I was criminalized as an eleven-year-old child for being sick.” “It actually was in my head—the bacteria was in my brain.” “I have Lyme disease. I am not Lyme disease.” “There is no silver bullet for Lyme. Healing is trial and error.” “I wouldn’t be who I am—or know my purpose—without this journey.” Why This Episode Matters This episode is essential listening for: Parents of children with unexplained symptoms Lyme disease and chronic illness patients Medical professionals and students Advocates fighting for better diagnostics and care Anyone who has ever felt dismissed, unseen, or unheard in healthcare Julia Bruzzese’s story is not just about Lyme disease—it’s about truth, resilience, accountability, and hope.

In this powerful episode, Tick Boot Camp Podcast interviews Dr. Karolina Praskeviciute (“Dr. Pras”), a multilingual, European-trained medical doctor who has lived in Lithuania, Hong Kong, London, and the United States, traveled to 89 countries, and now uses her global experience to understand chronic illness from a unique vantage point. Dr. Pras shares her deeply personal story of lifelong unexplained symptoms, childhood mold exposure, a bull’s-eye rash at age 15, and a medical system unequipped to recognize chronic tick-borne illness. After a devastating case of early COVID-19 in February 2020, her immune system collapsed, triggering full-blown Lyme disease, Babesia, Bartonella, tick-borne relapsing fever, MCAS, and Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS). This conversation bridges both sides of medicine—Western and functional—and explores how chronic illness forced Dr. Pras to reevaluate everything she learned as a third-generation physician. She now brings a rare, dual perspective as both clinician and patient. Key Topics Covered <h4>➤ Growing up in Lithuania: culture, safety, freedom & early mold exposure</h4> She describes an independent childhood surrounded by nature—but also living in a poorly insulated home with significant hidden mold that triggered early allergies, stomach pain, nosebleeds, and metallic taste. <h4>➤ Medical school awakening: Why Western medicine failed her symptoms</h4> Despite coming from a family of doctors, she noticed early on that conventional medicine couldn’t explain many of her symptoms—and she witnessed firsthand how chronic illness is minimized, dismissed, or mislabeled. <h4>➤ The first tick bite at 15 & the bull’s-eye rash ignored by doctors</h4> Despite developing textbook erythema migrans, pediatricians refused treatment. Her mother initiated a short doxycycline course on her own—far too short to prevent chronic Lyme. <h4>➤ Traveling the world & accumulating exposures</h4> After living and working across continents, she now believes different strains, microbes, and environmental factors layered into the perfect storm. <h4>➤ Long COVID as the breaking point</h4> Like many chronically ill patients, COVID destabilized everything: massive immune dysregulation nonstop inflammation MCAS flares worsening neurological symptoms Lyme and Babesia fully activating <h4>➤ Mold + Lyme + Long COVID = The Perfect Storm</h4> Her CIRS diagnosis revealed why she never recovered even after leaving mold exposure—and why immune dysfunction made Lyme treatment far more complex. <h4>➤ Her diagnostic breakthrough with IGeneX</h4> After repeated false-negative Western blots, specialty testing finally uncovered: Lyme Babesia Bartonella Tick-borne relapsing fever (TBRF) Immune activation on FISH testing <h4>➤ Treatment: Herbs, LymeStop, detox, keto, and functional medicine</h4> Her current regimen includes: Houttuynia (major reduction in joint pain within 1 week) Cryptolepis (powerful antimicrobial requiring slow titration) Custom herbal protocols (single-herb tinctures) HBOT INUSpheresis Light sauna Gentle lymphatic drainage Vagus nerve support Journaling & limbic system retraining Strict ketogenic diet after a 7-day fast dramatically reduced inflammation She also discusses the risks of Botox, fillers, tattoos, and skincare toxins for chronically ill patients. <h4>➤ Nervous system healing as the foundation of recovery</h4> She explains why vagus nerve work and limbic retraining may fail if patients are still in toxin exposure (like mold or endotoxins)—a vital distinction rarely discussed. <h4>➤ Becoming a doctor who understands chronic illness from both sides</h4> This episode explores: medical defensiveness gaslighting vs unhealthy doctor-patient dynamics why patients must be empowered, not dismissed why doctors also need compassion and realistic expectations how her future clinical practice will integrate empathy, functional medicine, and lived experience Top Quotes From Dr. Pras “I dismissed my own symptoms because I was trained to believe nothing was wrong unless labs proved it.” “Mold was the silent force that weakened my system long before Lyme took over.” “Healing is not linear. Some days it feels like I’m starting over, but I always come back stronger.” “Doctors have tools—but without a healthy doctor-patient relationship, those tools don’t work.” “I can help others now because I know when to push and when to pull back. Lived experience matters.” Where to Find Dr. Karolina Pras Instagram: @drkaromd Email: [email protected] (“consultant” spelled with a K)

Singer-songwriter and Lyme disease advocate Jesse Ruben joins the Tick Boot Camp Podcast for an incredibly honest, emotional, and deeply educational conversation about chronic Lyme disease, identity loss, treatment failure, unconventional healing, relapse, nervous system trauma, and the role of music and community in survival. Jesse’s journey spans more than a decade and includes misdiagnosis, years of antibiotic treatment, experimental therapies, remission, relapse during the pandemic, gut microbiome restoration, nervous system healing, and ultimately a renewed sense of purpose through advocacy and art. This episode is essential listening for anyone navigating chronic Lyme disease, supporting someone who is sick, or questioning whether healing is still possible. Jesse Ruben’s Early Life and Music Career Jesse grew up outside Philadelphia, surrounded by music, creativity, and curiosity. While he jokes that his songwriting degree was “a very expensive, useless piece of paper,” the competitive creative environment of music school helped sharpen his storytelling voice. By his early 20s, Jesse was living in New York City, touring, running marathons, and building momentum as an independent musician. He had just completed his third New York City Marathon, was in peak physical condition, and his career was accelerating—until his health began to unravel. The Onset of Illness: When Lyme Disease Took Everything Jesse’s first red flag appeared when he became short of breath climbing subway stairs, despite being a marathon runner. Soon after, nausea, dizziness, headaches, neurological symptoms, and crushing fatigue followed. On Christmas Day 2012, Jesse developed what seemed like a flu that never went away. Over the following months, symptoms escalated dramatically: Severe fatigue that made basic movement impossible Brain fog and memory loss Crawling sensations under the skin Air hunger and dizziness Anxiety, depression, and mood changes Weight loss and neurological dysfunction Despite seeing 15 doctors over nine months, Jesse received conflicting diagnoses ranging from vitamin deficiencies to fibromyalgia and lupus. Every test came back “normal.” Insurance denied coverage. Doctors told him he would “have to live with it.” During a national tour, Jesse was so debilitated that a friend physically lifted him onto the stage to perform, then carried him back to the van afterward. Eventually, through relentless self-research, Jesse discovered a symptom list online that finally connected the dots: Lyme disease. Diagnosis and Early Treatment Failure Jesse was ultimately diagnosed at the Morrison Center in New York City, where testing confirmed: Lyme disease Babesia Mycoplasma His initial treatment path included: 6 months of oral doxycycline 18 months of IV azithromycin Antiparasitics Mepron (for Babesia) Antifungals, antivirals, supplements, and Chinese herbs Despite years of treatment, nothing produced lasting improvement. Jesse describes his life during this period as being reduced to pill schedules, doctor visits, and survival mode. The Game Changer: Chelation and Ozone Therapy After nearly three years with minimal progress, Jesse’s provider, Dr. Gerald (“Jerry”) T. Simons at the Morrison Center, suggested a more experimental approach: chelation combined with ozone therapy. Jesse underwent IV chelation and ozone therapy multiple times per week for several months. The results were dramatic. Nearly all of Jesse’s symptoms resolved, and for the first time, he felt like himself again. Even years later, booster ozone treatments helped stop symptom flares before they escalated. 🔗 Learn more about Dr. Simons and the Morrison Center: https://www.morrisonhealth.com/staff/gerald-t-simons-pa-c/ Remission, Identity Loss, and the Hidden Trauma of Healing Jesse entered remission around 2016, but recovery wasn’t simple. While his body improved, his nervous system remained dysregulated, leaving him: Angry Hypervigilant Emotionally reactive Afraid symptoms would return Lyme disease had stolen not only his health but his identity as a musician, partner, and person. Re-entering the world—socially, professionally, and emotionally—was deeply challenging. Music Born From Illness Jesse channeled his experience into music that resonated deeply with the Lyme community. 🎵 Monster Written from a voice memo recorded at 4:45 a.m. during a rare moment of mental clarity, Monster captures the fear, rage, and disbelief of living in an invisible war within your own body. 🔗 Watch “Monster”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xJQKVSA_7Gw 🎵 This Is Why I Need You Written after Jesse entered remission, this song is a tribute to the doctors, nurses, friends, and strangers who carried him through the darkest years. It has since surpassed tens of millions of streams worldwide. 🔗 Watch “This Is Why I Need You”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C4NgsbkyeJs Generation Lyme: Turning Pain Into Purpose Jesse co-founded Generation Lyme, now the largest provider of online Lyme disease support meetups in the world. For more than six years, Jesse has hosted weekly meetups, helping newly diagnosed patients find community, guidance, and hope. 🔗 Listen to the Tick Boot Camp Generation Lyme episode: https://tickbootcamp.com/episode-250-generation-lyme-an-interview-with-brooke-stoddard-jennifer-hoffmann-jesse-ruben-and-haley-dibiase/ Relapse During the Pandemic and Gut Microbiome Collapse In 2021, Jesse relapsed after contracting Giardia, likely due to immune vulnerability from years of antibiotics and chronic illness. Symptoms persisted for years and included: Severe GI dysfunction Weight loss Neurological symptoms Vision changes Heightened anxiety and isolation Traditional GI doctors labeled it IBS, offering no real solutions. Fecal Microbiota Transplantation (FMT): Resetting the Gut Desperate for answers, Jesse pursued Fecal Microbiota Transplantation (FMT) through the Purety Clinic. FMT helped: Restore gut microbiome diversity Improve sleep Reduce inflammation Stabilize nervous system responses 🔗 Learn more about FMT at Purety Clinic: https://www.puretyclinic.com/fecal-transplant Ketamine Therapy: Healing the Nervous System Despite physical improvement, Jesse’s nervous system remained stuck in fight-or-flight. In late 2024, he began IV ketamine therapy at the Atlanta Ketamine Center. The impact was profound. Ketamine helped Jesse: Regulate his nervous system Release years of stored trauma Rebuild emotional safety Restore gratitude for life Heal his marriage Reconnect with creativity 🔗 Atlanta Ketamine Center: https://atlantaketaminecenter.com/ Jesse describes ketamine as “30 years of therapy in 90 minutes” and credits it with saving his marriage, career, and life. A New Chapter: Healing, Music, and Meaning Today, Jesse is: Releasing new music Touring through intimate house concerts Continuing Lyme advocacy Hosting Generation Lyme meetups Building a future with his wife Prioritizing joy, creativity, and presence He no longer measures success by fame—but by impact, connection, and purpose. Final Thoughts Jesse Ruben’s story is a powerful reminder that chronic Lyme disease is real, recovery is nonlinear, and healing often requires addressing infection, gut health, and the nervous system together. Most importantly, his journey proves that even after years of suffering, life can still expand, soften, and become meaningful again. 🎧 Listen to the full episode now🎶 Explore Jesse’s music and advocacy🤝 Share this episode with someone who needs hope You are not alone—and healing is still possible.

In this episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, Dr. Eric D. Gordon — globally recognized expert in Lyme disease, ME/CFS, mold toxicity, MCAS, mitochondrial dysfunction, and complex chronic illness — explains why chronic illness is never caused by a single factor and why recovery requires a strategic “order of operations.” Recorded after meeting at Project Lab Coat during NYFW, this conversation dives into chronic inflammation, immune dysregulation, why some people stay sick for years, why certain treatments backfire, how metabolomics reveals dysfunction that standard tests miss, and the future of individualized chronic illness care. Guest Bio Medical Director, Gordon Medical Associates, and President, Gordon Medical Research Center Dr. Gordon has 45+ years of experience treating the most complex chronic illness cases. He specializes in: Lyme disease and tick-borne infections ME/CFS and post-infectious illness Mold and mycotoxin exposure Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) Autoimmune disease Environmental illness Mitochondrial dysfunction and metabolic collapse He co-authored the landmark 2016 PNAS metabolomics study with Dr. Robert Naviaux, which reshaped global understanding of ME/CFS and chronic inflammatory diseases. Key Topics Covered How Dr. Gordon became one of the world’s leading chronic illness clinicians Why patient belief and validation are foundational to healing Why chronic illness cases don’t fit conventional medical models Why herbs often worsen symptoms in MCAS or inflamed patients When pharmaceuticals help stabilize sensitive patients How chronic inflammation blocks trace mineral absorption The link between minerals, B vitamins, mitochondria, and NAD/NADH When detoxification helps — and when it causes more harm How childhood infections and environment shape lifelong immunity The massive impact of modern microbiome disruption Mold illness as the “great derailer” of Lyme treatment Why genetics like MTHFR and HLA are not destiny Why some people heal from Lyme without treatment How metabolomics and AI will usher in precision medicine What actually keeps people sick — accumulated compensations, not the tick bite What intuitive patients get right (and wrong) about their symptoms Timestamps 0:02 – Meeting Dr. Gordon at Project Labcoat 1:08 – Who he is and how he entered complex illness medicine 2:30 – Realizing conventional medicine fails chronic patients 5:45 – Why chronic illness doesn’t fit standard algorithms 8:10 – Herbs vs antibiotics: what most people misunderstand 11:28 – Inflammation and why sensitive patients react to everything 13:45 – MCAS and immune overactivation 16:25 – Why herbal formulas can trigger flares 19:30 – Pharmaceuticals that calm inflammation 20:50 – Trace minerals, mitochondrial function, and NAD pathways 23:55 – Why standard labs can’t see cellular dysfunction 26:10 – How childhood immune experiences shape resilience 28:40 – Environmental changes and microbiome decline 30:30 – Shoes, posture, fascia, lymphatics 36:35 – Structural healing and hypersensitive patients 41:20 – Founding Gordon Medical Associates 43:00 – Early discoveries with Lyme disease patients 48:30 – Detoxification, herbal protocols, and mold models 52:10 – Mold’s ability to halt all progress 55:30 – Why mold affects some family members and not others 57:20 – How food supply antibiotics disrupt immunity 59:50 – Genetics are possibilities, not fate 1:03:20 – Why some people recover after a tick bite and others don’t 1:07:00 – How AI and metabolomics will transform treatment 1:10:40 – Genes vs environment 1:13:30 – Chronic illness requires many small steps 1:16:00 – How to work with Dr. Gordon 1:18:30 – Final message of hope Pull Quotes “Chronic illness is not caused by one thing — and it’s never healed by one thing.” “Herbs depend on your body’s ability to modulate inflammation. If you can’t dampen the fire, herbs feel like gasoline.” “Genetics are not destiny. They’re possibilities.” “Mold makes every other treatment look like it’s failing.” “You can absolutely get well — but there is no single magic bullet.” Call to Action If this episode brought you clarity or hope, please share it with someone navigating chronic Lyme, mold illness, MCAS, or ME/CFS. Subscribe and leave a review to help more people find this conversation and believe that healing is possible.

Overview This special episode of the [Tick Boot Camp Podcast](https://tickbootcamp.com/podcast/) was recorded live at the 2nd Annual Alzheimer’s Pathobiome Initiative (AlzPI) and PCOM Symposium in collaboration with Pathobiome Perspectives. Hosted by Ali Moresco in partnership with Nikki Schultek, Executive Director of AlzPI, the conversation continues the Tick Boot Camp mission of exploring infection-associated chronic illness (IACI)—including Lyme disease and other tick-borne infections—within the global Alzheimer’s and neuroimmunology research community. Tick Boot Camp co-founders Matt Sabatello and Rich Johannesen partnered with Ali and Nikki to highlight leading scientists connecting microbes, immune dysregulation, and neurodegenerative disease. This episode features Dr. Elizabeth “Betsy” Bradshaw, Assistant Professor of Neurology at Columbia University Irving Medical Center, whose research investigates how past infections leave lasting imprints on the brain’s immune system and influence the development of Alzheimer’s disease. Guest Elizabeth M. Bradshaw, PhD Assistant Professor of Neurology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center Principal Investigator, Bradshaw Laboratory – Neuroimmunology and Genetics of Alzheimer’s Dr. Bradshaw’s laboratory focuses on the immune system’s role in neurodegeneration, particularly how infection and inflammation alter brain immunity and predispose individuals to conditions like Alzheimer’s disease. Her work builds on large-scale genome-wide association studies (GWAS) that identified immune-related genetic variants linked to Alzheimer’s susceptibility, suggesting that subtle changes in immune function—not just neuronal factors—may underlie disease onset. Her team is exploring how pathogens such as HSV-1 (Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1) interact with the brain’s immune cells, known as microglia, and how these infections can “reprogram” immune responses long after the pathogen is cleared. Key Discussion Points Dr. Bradshaw explains how her research bridges genetics, immunology, and infectious disease to better understand Alzheimer’s. Through GWAS data, her team found that many of the genes linked to Alzheimer’s risk involve immune pathways rather than neuronal signaling. This discovery redirected the field’s attention toward how immune cells respond to pathogens and environmental stressors across a lifetime. Using human-derived microglia-like cells created from blood monocytes, her team observes how infections reshape immune cell metabolism and memory. By infecting these microglia-like cells with Alzheimer’s-associated pathogens like HSV-1, they study how genetic background and infection history determine immune cell behavior. The findings suggest that past infections may epigenetically and metabolically train microglia—changing how they respond to aging, stress, and amyloid buildup. Even when the infection has resolved, these “reprogrammed” immune cells can remain altered for decades, silently increasing the brain’s vulnerability to neurodegeneration. Dr. Bradshaw emphasizes that understanding how infections rewire the brain’s immune landscape could transform early intervention strategies. Identifying combinations of genetic risk factors and pathogen exposures may enable targeted prevention or immune-modulating treatments long before symptoms appear. “Microglia remember. Even after the pathogen is gone, they carry its imprint—responding differently decades later when the brain faces new challenges.” — Dr. Elizabeth Bradshaw Why It Matters Dr. Bradshaw’s work reframes Alzheimer’s disease as a neuroimmune condition shaped by infection and host genetics. Her research highlights how microbial exposures, immune history, and inflammation converge to influence cognitive decline. By integrating infection biology with genetics and immunology, her team is redefining how scientists and clinicians view the root causes of Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases. This work strengthens the growing case that the immune system’s “memory” of infection may be one of the most important and overlooked factors in brain health and aging. About the Event This interview was recorded at the 2nd Annual Alzheimer’s Pathobiome Initiative (AlzPI) and Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) Symposium, held October 3, 2025, at Ohio University in Dublin, Ohio. The event brought together more than 20 leading researchers exploring how microbes, the microbiome, and immune dysregulation contribute to Alzheimer’s, dementia, and infection-associated chronic illness (IACI). Tick Boot Camp partnered with Ali Moresco and Nikki Schultek to share these conversations and connect chronic Lyme, infection, and neurodegenerative research communities. Learn More Learn more about the Alzheimer’s Pathobiome Initiative (AlzPI) Listen to Tick Boot Camp Podcast episodes, including Episode 406: Pathobiome – An Interview with Nikki Schultek and Episode 101: The Young Gun – An Interview with Alex (Ali) Moresco discussed in this interview.

Overview This special episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast was recorded live at the 2nd Annual Alzheimer’s Pathobiome Initiative (AlzPI) and PCOM Symposium in collaboration with Pathobiome Perspectives. Hosted by Ali Moresco in partnership with Nikki Schultek, Executive Director of AlzPI, this series expands the Tick Boot Camp mission of exploring infection-associated chronic illness (IACI)—including Lyme and other tick-borne infections—to the global Alzheimer’s and neuroimmunology research community. Tick Boot Camp co-founders Matt Sabatello and Rich Johannesen partnered with Ali and Nikki to showcase scientists exploring the microbial and immune mechanisms behind neurodegeneration. This episode features Dr. Janice Bush, a PhD candidate at North Carolina State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, whose research under world-renowned Bartonella expert Dr. Edward Breitschwerdt investigates how Bartonella bacteria alter gene expression in the brain’s immune cells. Guest Janice Bush, DVM, PhD Candidate College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University (NCSU) Dr. Janice Bush began her career in veterinary medicine, where she observed a striking overlap between illnesses in pets and their human owners—particularly those linked to vector-borne infections like Bartonella. Now completing her PhD under Dr. Edward Breitschwerdt, she focuses on Bartonella henselae, the bacterium behind Cat Scratch Disease, and its ability to infect human microglial cells—the brain’s resident immune defenders. Her presentation, “Bartonella-Infected Human Microglial Cells: Transcriptional Changes Associated with Chronic Neurologic Disorders,” revealed how this stealth pathogen triggers widespread gene dysregulation linked to Alzheimer’s disease, psychiatric symptoms, and neurodegenerative processes. Key Discussion Points Dr. Bush explains how Bartonella infection reprograms human microglia, the brain’s innate immune cells, leading to hundreds of genes being upregulated or suppressed—affecting energy metabolism, mitochondrial function, cell signaling, and immune communication. These cellular changes mirror those observed in chronic neurological and psychiatric disorders, providing a potential mechanistic link between infection and long-term neurodegeneration. She describes Bartonella’s sophisticated immune evasion strategy, including its ability to hijack cellular machinery and increase production of interleukin-10 (IL-10)—an anti-inflammatory cytokine that suppresses immune response, allowing the bacteria to persist undetected. This mechanism may explain why patients experience cyclic flares and remissions, and why Bartonella can linger silently for years. Dr. Bush’s findings suggest that even short-term infections can produce measurable transcriptional changes in brain immune cells within 48 hours. If such infections persist for months or years, they may set the stage for neurodegenerative disease, particularly when combined with other pathogens or environmental factors. “If one intracellular pathogen can cause this many changes in two days, imagine what happens over months or years. Bartonella may be the spark that primes the brain for neurodegeneration.” — Dr. Janice Bush Why It Matters Dr. Bush’s research offers a groundbreaking look at how a common, underrecognized infection may drive neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. Her work bridges veterinary medicine, infectious disease, and neurology—revealing how pathogens once dismissed as minor or self-limiting may alter the brain’s immune landscape. By demonstrating that Bartonella can infect and manipulate microglial cells, she provides critical biological evidence linking vector-borne disease and cognitive decline, paving the way for future diagnostic and therapeutic innovation. About the Event This interview was recorded at the 2nd Annual Alzheimer’s Pathobiome Initiative (AlzPI) and Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) Symposium, held October 3, 2025, at Ohio University in Dublin, Ohio. The event gathered more than 20 leading researchers exploring how microbes, the microbiome, and immune dysregulation contribute to Alzheimer’s, dementia, and infection-associated chronic illness (IACI). The Tick Boot Camp Podcast, in partnership with Ali Moresco and Nikki Schultek, documented these conversations to connect the chronic Lyme, infectious disease, and Alzheimer’s research communities. This episode is part of Tick Boot Camp’s AlzPI collaboration series. Learn More Learn more about the Alzheimer’s Pathobiome Initiative (AlzPI) Listen to Tick Boot Camp Podcast episodes, including Episode 406: Pathobiome – An Interview with Nikki Schultek and Episode 101: The Young Gun – An Interview with Alex (Ali) Moresco discussed in this interview.

Overview This special episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast was recorded live at the 2nd Annual Alzheimer’s Pathobiome Initiative (AlzPI) and PCOM Symposium in collaboration with Pathobiome Perspectives. Hosted by Ali Moresco in partnership with Nikki Schultek (Executive Director, AlzPI), the conversation advances the Tick Boot Camp mission of exploring infection-associated chronic illness (IACI)—including Lyme disease and other tick-borne infections—within the global Alzheimer’s and neuroimmunology community. Tick Boot Camp co-founders Matt Sabatello and Rich Johannesen partnered with Ali and Nikki to amplify voices connecting tick-borne illness, microbes, and cognitive decline. This episode features Nicole Bell—author, entrepreneur, and CEO of Galaxy Diagnostics—whose memoir What Lurks in the Woods documents her late husband Russ’s misdiagnosed tick-borne illness and their search for answers. Guest Nicole Bell Author of What Lurks in the Woods CEO, Galaxy Diagnostics Advocate for tick-borne and neurodegenerative disease BS/MS, Materials Science & Engineering (MIT) MS, Biomedical Engineering (Duke University) At the Symposium, Nicole presented “When the brain pathobiome becomes personal,” sharing her family’s journey and new findings from Russ’s donated brain: laboratory evidence of Borrelia burgdorferi, Chlamydia pneumoniae, and Babesia otocoli (a species long thought to be deer-restricted) in brain tissue—data now being prepared for publication. Researchers also noted elevated heavy metals (lead, mercury), underscoring how polymicrobial infection plus toxic exposures may converge to drive neuroinflammation and Alzheimer’s-like decline. Key Discussion Points Nicole details how repeated “normal” neurology workups masked a complex pathobiome process. She explains why standard two-tier Lyme serology can miss true infection, how direct detection can change care, and why patients should consider Bartonella and Babesia alongside Lyme. She outlines hallmark Bartonella clues—including striæ that resemble stretch marks (often more visible after hot showers), neuropsychiatric manifestations (irritability, anxiety, OCD, tics), ocular and joint involvement—and highlights non-tick vectors (notably fleas and household cats) that expand risk beyond forest exposure. Nicole advocates for building a diagnostic toolkit that combines serology with sensitive direct tests to clarify which pathogens are active—critical because Borrelia, Bartonella, and Babesia require different treatment paradigms. Looking forward, she envisions comprehensive screening panels for midlife cognitive changes that integrate pathogen load, host immune signatures, and toxin status, enabling earlier, targeted interventions. “Everyone wants a simple A→B. But the toughest chronic conditions are subtle and multifactorial. Accurate data, direct detection, and a clinician who will go on the journey with you can change everything.” — Nicole Bell Why It Matters Nicole’s story humanizes the science: polymicrobial infection + toxins + host factors can look “psychiatric” or “idiopathic” until modern testing reveals the underlying pathobiome. Her advocacy pushes medicine toward precision diagnostics, earlier detection, and pathogen-informed care that may prevent years of decline. About the Event Recorded at the 2nd Annual Alzheimer’s Pathobiome Initiative (AlzPI) and Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) Symposium on October 3, 2025, at Ohio University (Dublin, Ohio). The meeting convened global experts investigating how microbes, the microbiome, and immune responses contribute to Alzheimer’s, dementia, PANS/PANDAS, and other infection-associated chronic illnesses (IACI). This episode is part of a Tick Boot Camp series connecting chronic Lyme research with cutting-edge brain-immune science. Learn More Learn more about the Alzheimer’s Pathobiome Initiative (AlzPI) Listen to Tick Boot Camp Podcast episodes, including Episode 406: Pathobiome – An Interview with Nikki Schultek, Episode 101: The Young Gun – An Interview with Alex (Ali) Moresco, and Episode 216: What Lurks in the Woods – an interview with Nicole Bell discussed in this interview.

Overview This special episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast was recorded live at the 2nd Annual Alzheimer’s Pathobiome Initiative (AlzPI) and PCOM Symposium in collaboration with Pathobiome Perspectives. Hosted by Ali Moresco in partnership with Nikki Schultek, Executive Director of AlzPI, the conversation brings the Tick Boot Camp mission of exploring infection-associated chronic illness (IACI)—including Lyme disease and other tick-borne infections—to the global Alzheimer’s and neuroimmunology research community. Tick Boot Camp co-founders Matt Sabatello and Rich Johannesen partnered with Ali and Nikki to highlight leading scientists connecting infection, immune dysfunction, and cognitive decline. This episode features Dr. Sean Miller, a neuroscientist and co-investigator in the Logan Lab with a primary appointment at Yale School of Medicine, who is developing ways to non-invasively detect Alzheimer’s-like pathology through the eye. Guest Sean Miller, PhD Co-Investigator, Logan Lab / Yale School of Medicine Dr. Sean Miller completed pre-doctoral work at Harvard Medical School, earned his PhD from Johns Hopkins University, and completed post-doctoral training at Stanford University. His research focuses on neurodegeneration, neuroglia, and early diagnostic strategies for Alzheimer’s and related diseases. At the AlzPI & PCOM Symposium, Dr. Miller presented evidence showing that SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) infection can accelerate Alzheimer’s-like pathology and that these changes can be detected non-invasively through retinal imaging. His findings suggest that amyloid-beta, a protein long associated with Alzheimer’s disease, may also serve as part of the brain’s antimicrobial defense system—trapping pathogens like a mesh or biofilm, but leading to damaging plaque buildup when overproduced. Key Discussion Points Dr. Miller describes how the COVID-19 virus can act as an infectious trigger for neuroinflammation and amyloid buildup, how the eye provides a unique window into the brain, and why early detection is essential to preventing neuron death. He shares how his lab’s AI-enhanced retinal imaging research at Yale Eye Center is identifying amyloid and tau deposits in patients with long COVID-related brain fog—opening the possibility of routine eye exams doubling as early Alzheimer’s screening tools. He explains potential therapeutic strategies, such as limiting amyloid production during infection flare-ups and enhancing clearance mechanisms afterward to reduce chronic plaque formation. The conversation also explores his scientific journey—from designing Alzheimer’s drugs at Harvard and Johns Hopkins to realizing the need for early disease detection during his postdoc at Stanford—and how the pandemic inspired his focus on infection-induced neurodegeneration. “We believe neurons are exposed to pathogens in the central nervous system and respond by secreting amyloid-beta to trap them. Excessive plaque buildup from repeated or severe infections may be what drives long-term neurodegeneration.” — Dr. Sean Miller Why It Matters Dr. Miller’s research connects infectious disease, ophthalmology, and neurology, providing a revolutionary new method to screen for early Alzheimer’s-like changes non-invasively through the human eye. His work suggests that infections like COVID-19 may trigger the same protective—but damaging—immune responses implicated in chronic conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and infection-associated cognitive decline. About the Event The interview took place at the 2nd Annual Alzheimer’s Pathobiome Initiative (AlzPI) and Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) Symposium, held on October 3, 2025, at Ohio University in Dublin, Ohio. The event brought together more than 20 global researchers exploring how microbes, the microbiome, and the immune response contribute to Alzheimer’s, dementia, PANS/PANDAS, and infection-associated chronic illnesses (IACI). Tick Boot Camp partnered with Ali Moresco and Nikki Schultek to share the voices of researchers advancing the field of infection-associated chronic illness. This episode is part of a multi-part Tick Boot Camp series highlighting how pathobiome and microbiome science are transforming the understanding of Lyme disease, infection, and neurodegeneration. Learn More Learn more about the Alzheimer’s Pathobiome Initiative (AlzPI) Listen to Tick Boot Camp Podcast episodes, including Episode 406: Pathobiome – An Interview with Nikki Schultek and Episode 101: The Young Gun – An Interview with Alex (Ali) Moresco discussed in this interview.

Overview This special episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast was recorded live at the 2nd Annual Alzheimer’s Pathobiome Initiative (AlzPI) and PCOM Symposium in collaboration with Pathobiome Perspectives. Hosted by Ali Moresco in partnership with Nikki Schultek, Executive Director of AlzPI, the conversation brings the Tick Boot Camp mission of exploring infection-associated chronic illness (IACI), like Lyme disease and other tick-borne diseases, to the global Alzheimer’s and neuroimmunology research community. Tick Boot Camp co-founders Matt Sabatello and Rich Johannesen partnered with Ali and Nikki to highlight scientists whose work connects tick-borne illness, microbes, and cognitive decline. This episode features Dr. Brian J. Balin, an internationally recognized neuroscientist whose research has redefined the role of infection in contributing to Alzheimer’s disease. Guest Brian J. Balin, PhD Professor of Neuroscience and Neuropathology Director, Center for Chronic Disorders of Aging Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) Dr. Balin directs the Center for Chronic Disorders of Aging and the Adolph and Rose Levis Foundation Laboratory for Alzheimer’s Disease Research at PCOM. With a PhD from the University of Maryland School of Medicine and postdoctoral training at the University of Pennsylvania, he has devoted nearly three decades to understanding how chronic infection and inflammation trigger neurodegeneration. His pioneering discovery that the respiratory bacterium Chlamydia pneumoniae infects brain tissue helped establish the Pathogen Hypothesis of Alzheimer’s disease. His continuing work explores how tick-borne microbes — including Borrelia burgdorferi (Lyme disease), Bartonella, and Babesia — interact with other pathogens to drive neuroinflammation and cognitive decline. Key Discussion Points How infections such as Chlamydia pneumoniae, Borrelia burgdorferi, Bartonella, and Babesia were detected in Alzheimer’s brain tissue. Evidence that microbes can enter the brain via the olfactory pathway or blood-brain barrier, initiating chronic inflammation, amyloid plaque formation, and tau tangle pathology. Findings from Dr. Balin’s collaboration with Galaxy Diagnostics and advocate Nicole Bell, revealing polymicrobial infection and even Babesia otocoli — a strain previously believed to infect only deer — in human brain tissue. The use of animal models and 3D human brain organoids to study infection-driven neurodegeneration. Why identifying infection as part of the exposome (environmental insults over a lifetime) is key to developing precision diagnostics and treatments. Future directions: immune-modulating drugs, antimicrobials, and emerging phage therapy. “Infection is part of the exposome — an environmental insult that shapes our health over a lifetime. Recognizing that is key to truly understanding and preventing Alzheimer’s disease.” — Dr. Brian J. Balin Why It Matters Dr. Balin’s research bridges the worlds of neurology and infectious disease, offering a framework that could revolutionize how Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative conditions are diagnosed and treated. By recognizing that microbes — including those transmitted by ticks — can initiate neuroinflammation and cognitive decline, his work provides hope for millions living with infection-associated chronic illness. About the Event The interview took place at the 2nd Annual Alzheimer’s Pathobiome Initiative (AlzPI) and Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) Symposium, October 3, 2025, Ohio University in Dublin, Ohio. The Symposium brought together more than 20 experts exploring how microbes, the microbiome, and the host immune response contribute to neurological and psychiatric diseases such as Alzheimer’s, dementia, and PANS/PANDAS. Tick Boot Camp partnered with Ali Moresco and Nikki Schultek to document and share the voices of scientists advancing research on infection-associated chronic illness (IACI). This episode is part of a special series showcasing how pathobiome and microbiome science is changing our understanding of chronic Lyme and neurodegenerative disease. Learn More Learn about the Alzheimer’s Pathobiome Initiative (AlzPI) at AlzPI.org. For Dr. Balin’s publications and ongoing research, visit the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) website. Learn more about the Alzheimer’s Pathobiome Initiative (AlzPI) Listen to Tick Boot Camp Podcast episodes, including Episode 406: Pathobiome – An Interview with Nikki Schultek and Episode 101: The Young Gun – An Interview with Alex (Ali) Moresco discussed in this interview.

Overview This special episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast was recorded live at the 2nd Annual Alzheimer’s Pathobiome Initiative (AlzPI) and PCOM Symposium in collaboration with Pathobiome Perspectives. Hosted by Ali Moresco in partnership with Nikki Schultek, Executive Director of AlzPI, the conversation brings the Tick Boot Camp mission of exploring infection-associated chronic illness (IACI)—like Lyme disease and other tick-borne infections—to the global Alzheimer’s and neuroimmunology research community. Tick Boot Camp co-founders Matt Sabatello and Rich Johannesen partnered with Ali and Nikki to highlight scientists whose work connects tick-borne illness, microbes, and cognitive decline. This episode features Yuri Kim, RN, Lead Clinical Research Nurse for the MAESTRO Study at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), who is leading pioneering work to measure and understand “brain fog” in infection-associated chronic illness. Guest Yuri Kim, RN Lead Clinical Research Nurse, MAESTRO Study Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Yuri Kim is the Lead Clinical Research Nurse for the MAESTRO Study, the largest clinical study ever conducted at MIT, led by Dr. Michal “Mikki” Caspi Tal, immunologist and immunoengineer at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. The MAESTRO Study investigates infection-associated chronic illnesses (IACI) such as chronic Lyme disease and aims to objectively measure and understand one of the most debilitating and misunderstood symptoms—brain fog. Yuri has conducted more than 170 participant study visits and integrates patient narratives with advanced neurocognitive, immune, and molecular profiling. Her background includes experience as a trauma ER nurse and clinical research manager on neurodegenerative and rare diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), and amyloidosis. Key Discussion Points How the MAESTRO Study combines subjective patient narratives with objective neurocognitive and biomarker data to better define and measure brain fog. Use of innovative diagnostic tools including EEG (WAVi), RightEye eye-tracking, BrainCheck cognitive testing, and NASA Lean autonomic assessments. Early findings showing slower reaction times and potential correlations between GFAP, NfL, and sCD14 with cognitive symptoms in chronic Lyme and other IACI patients. The role of immune dysregulation, gut permeability, and neuroinflammation in contributing to cognitive impairment. The need for brain fog-specific assessment tools and more research into sex and hormonal differences that may affect neurocognitive outcomes. Why validating and quantifying “invisible symptoms” is vital to patient care and the future of infection-associated chronic illness research. “Brain fog isn’t just a symptom—it’s a phenomenon interconnected with multiple systems. We’re trying to narrow the gap between what patients report and what we can measure.” — Yuri Kim Why It Matters Yuri Kim’s work at MIT bridges patient experience and advanced science to address one of the most misunderstood symptoms in infection-associated chronic illness: brain fog. Her research within the MAESTRO Study, under the leadership of Dr. Michal “Mikki” Caspi Tal, is generating objective evidence that validates patient experiences and reveals how chronic infection and immune dysregulation can cause measurable cognitive and physiological changes. By studying infection-associated brain fog in Lyme disease and other chronic conditions, Yuri and the MAESTRO team are helping to shape a new era of diagnostics and care for people living with long-term, infection-driven illness. About the Event The interview took place at the 2nd Annual Alzheimer’s Pathobiome Initiative (AlzPI) and Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) Symposium, held on October 3, 2025, at Ohio University in Dublin, Ohio. The Symposium brought together more than 20 international experts investigating how microbes, the microbiome, and the host immune response contribute to neurological and psychiatric conditions such as Alzheimer’s, dementia, and PANS/PANDAS. Tick Boot Camp partnered with Ali Moresco and Nikki Schultek to capture and share the voices of scientists advancing research on infection-associated chronic illness (IACI). This episode is part of a special Tick Boot Camp series spotlighting how pathobiome and microbiome science are transforming the understanding of chronic Lyme, cognitive dysfunction, and neurodegeneration. Learn More Learn more about the Alzheimer’s Pathobiome Initiative (AlzPI) View Yuri Kim's bio on the MIT website Discover more about Dr. Michal “Mikki” Caspi Tal on Tick Boot Camp Listen to Tick Boot Camp Podcast episodes, including Episode 406: Pathobiome – An Interview with Nikki Schultek and Episode 101: The Young Gun – An Interview with Alex (Ali) Moresco discussed in this interview.

In this powerful episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, international DJ and artist duo Z3LLA — Julia “Juj” Seeley and Kiana Tebyani — share how chronic illness, creativity, and friendship became the foundation of their success. After years of unexplained symptoms, Juj was diagnosed with Lyme disease, Bartonella, Babesia, mold toxicity, POTS, SIBO, celiac disease, and later catamenial epilepsy. Despite life-altering health challenges, she and her best friend Kiana have built Z3LLA into one of the most exciting names in house music — with their single “Why Should I?” reaching #1 on the US Dance Radio Charts and performances alongside Disco Lines, Galantis, and Bijou. Together, Juj and Kiana discuss performing through flare-ups, collapsing backstage, navigating the medical system, and the emotional toll of chasing dreams while managing invisible illness. From ER visits and red-light therapy to steroid crashes and spiritual breakthroughs, this episode is a masterclass in resilience, vulnerability, and using art as advocacy. 🌿 Episode Highlights The early years: Celiac diagnosis, chronic rashes, and the path to discovering Lyme, Bartonella, and Babesia Treating the terrain: Mold toxicity and inflammation as hidden barriers to healing Neurological challenges: Catamenial epilepsy, seizures, and functional brain inflammation Functional medicine approach: Working with Dr. Nicola Ducharme on hormone balance, gut repair, and detox Touring through illness: Allergic reactions mid-set, paramedics at Miami Music Week, and a hospital trip after the Fonda Theatre show Women’s health gaps: Misdiagnosis, heavy cycles, iron infusions, and the impact of hormonal disruption The LymeLightFoundation’s impact: Lyme disease treatment grants that helped fund advanced Lyme treatments for Juj Friendship and balance: How Kiana became Juj’s anchor on the road and in recovery Boundaries in advocacy: Protecting mental health and avoiding trauma bonding in chronic illness communities The creative future: Plans for a Lyme awareness festival (“LymeStock”), composing for film, and writing a book 💬 Notable Quotes “I was so tired of band-aid medicine — I needed to heal, not just survive.” – Juj Seeley “She’s the definition of perseverance. You’d never know she was hallucinating from exhaustion one night and headlining a sold-out show the next.” – Kiana Tebyani “Consistency is the key to natural healing — the herbs, the detox, the mindset. You have to commit.” – Matt Sabatello “Our art is advocacy. The music tells the story.” – Z3LLA 🔑 Key Topics Chronic Lyme and co-infections (Babesia, Bartonella) Mold toxicity and inflammatory overlap Neurological Lyme and epilepsy (catamenial pattern) Women’s health and hormone regulation Gut healing, celiac management, and SIBO protocols Red light therapy, sauna detox, and lymphatic movement Touring while chronically ill Functional medicine and integrative treatment approaches Mental health, boundaries, and advocacy sustainability Female empowerment in the music industry 💡 Lessons & Takeaways Healing isn’t linear — progress comes in waves, not straight lines. Female artists with chronic illness face unique visibility and credibility challenges. Addressing inflammation and mold toxicity is often the missing step in long-term recovery. Community support and funding — like the Limelight Foundation — can change treatment access. Creative expression is not separate from healing; it’s often part of it. 🎶 About Z3LLA Z3LLA is an award-winning artist/DJ duo composed of Julia “Juj” Seeley and Kiana Tebyani, two vocalists, songwriters, and producers redefining what it means to thrive as women in electronic music. Known for their infectious energy and empowering message, Z3LLA’s breakout single “Why Should I?” hit #1 on the US Dance Radio Charts, with spins on SiriusXM BPM, Music Choice, and Evolution Radio. They’ve shared the stage with Disco Lines, Galantis, and Bijou, earned the Level Future of Dance Award from Nexus Radio, and performed at Miami Music Week and beyond. With an authentic blend of vulnerability and power, Z3LLA is not just creating music — they’re building a movement. Follow Z3LLA: 🎧 Spotify | 📸 Instagram | 🎵 Apple Music | 🌐 YouTube 🔗 Resources Mentioned LymeLight Foundation – Lyme treatment grants for young adults ILADS – International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society Project Lab Coat – Lyme research and awareness initiative Dr. Nicola Ducharme – Functional Medicine & Women’s Health Specialist

Episode Summary In this special Tick Boot Camp Podcast episode, Dr. Myriah Hinchey (ND) joins Matt Sabatello and Rich Johannesen from Tick Boot Camp to spotlight the 2025 LymeBytes Symposium, a physician- and patient-focused conference designed to shorten the healing journey for Lyme, mold illness, PANS/PANDAS, Long COVID, and other complex, infection-driven chronic conditions. We dig into why immersive learning accelerates progress, how an intimate format fuels direct access to top clinicians and vendors, and what attendees—both in-person and virtual—will actually experience over two packed days in Fort Lauderdale. Exclusive Listener Offer: Use code TBC100 at checkout for $100 off in-person or virtual tickets at shop.lymebytes.com. Why This Episode Matters End the isolation: Dr. Hinchey explains how community, validation, and shared learning unlock momentum for both patients and clinicians. Immersion = speed: Concentrated exposure to leading experts and technologies helps you discover the next best step faster. Bridging the gap: Learn why precision care often requires a team—LLMDs, specialty labs, compounders, targeted supplements, and therapeutic devices—working together. What You’ll Learn Inside the LymeBytes philosophy: Healthy, gluten- and dairy-free meals, beach-side community dinner, structured networking, and vendor access that mirror the lifestyle principles used in treatment. Adjunctive therapies on site: Demos and education around hyperbaric oxygen therapy (OxyHealth), infrared/red light, Relax Sauna, Therasage, plus niche supplement brands (e.g., Alight by Dr. Jill Crista, NutraMedix, Lymecore Botanicals) and specialty labs for Lyme, co-infections, and mold. Precision testing & interpretation: Why test results (e.g., Western Blots, specialty panels) must be read in clinical context, and how collaboration between vendors and clinicians personalizes care. PRP/TruDose spotlight: A primer on platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and how TruDose aims to reset immune function and calm the nervous system using your own platelets—plus a teaser for a future deep-dive episode. Virtual experience (no FOMO): Live access to all clinician lectures, slides, full-day recordings to rewatch/scrub, and new vendor mini-interviews so remote attendees don’t miss the expo value. Who Should Attend the Symposium Patients & caregivers seeking credible, actionable strategies to shorten recovery time Clinicians (conventional, integrative, functional) looking to upgrade protocols for chronic infection and inflammation Allies & advocates ready to learn the truth about Lyme and related conditions from top voices in the field Anyone who wants direct access to vendors, labs, and tools that often stay off patients’ radars Event Details (In-Person + Virtual) Dates: November 14–15, 2025 Location: Fort Lauderdale Marriott Pompano Beach Resort & Spa (Florida) Format: Limited-capacity, intimate event (≈180–200 attendees) fostering direct interaction with clinicians, researchers, and vendors Perks: Healthy meals (GF/DF), Friday night beach dinner, curated vendor hall, 14.5 CME credits available in person (additional fee) Virtual: Live stream + full-day recordings (Day 1 & Day 2), slide access, vendor mini-features Register: shop.lymebytes.com $100 Off: Use code TBC100 at checkout (in-person or virtual) Notable Quotes On immersion: “The more volume of opportunities in an immersive environment, the more your internal diagnostic system can sense what resonates—and that’s often your next right step.” On community: “Patients and clinicians are often dismissed or isolated. This event builds real connections you can rely on after you go home.” On precision: “Chronic cases are outliers—they need specialized testing, targeted supplements, and coordinated care to get unstuck.” Call to Action If travel isn’t possible, don’t wait—join virtually to access the same lectures, slides, and full-day recordings. And if you can make it to Florida, come say hi to Rich and the Tick Boot Camp crew in person. 👉 Register now: shop.lymebytes.com | Use code TBC100 for $100 off.

Recorded in person in Central Park, NYC just before Project Lab Coat at New York Fashion Week (NYFW), this Tick Boot Camp Podcast features Dr. Bill Rawls on what helps chronic Lyme patients move from overwhelm to progress. We talk immune-first strategy, why antibiotics often fall short in chronic cases, how to protect the gut, and a stepwise plan that reduces flare risk and builds confidence. Episode snapshot Dr. Rawls explains why stealth microbes like Borrelia, Bartonella, and Babesia grow slowly and hide in tissues, which is why a quick-fix antibiotic approach often disappoints in chronic illness. We discuss a four-phase healing framework — prehabilitation, assist the immune system, rehabilitation, and maintenance (PARM) — and how a gradual, system-calming on-ramp helps patients tolerate protocols without crashing. We also dig into gut protection, community support, and how AI can speed education and research. What you will learn Why “assist the immune system” beats “kill at all costs” for chronic Lyme Stealth microbe biology and why slow growth changes the treatment playbook Antibiotic overuse risks including microbiome injury and antibiotic resistance Gut and detox support as foundations for energy, sleep, and resilience A stepwise entry to treatment that reduces flares and anxiety Key herbs with evidence for tick-borne infections and immune modulation Community and education as levers for consistency and long-term success How AI tools can accelerate research, writing, and practical guidance Key topics and takeaways Four phases of recovery: prehab, assist, rehab, maintenance Antibiotics in chronic Lyme: may disrupt the gut before meaningfully impacting slow-growing pathogens Herbal strategy: sustained pressure over time with immune support Gradual on-ramp: calm the nervous system first, then gut and detox, then stronger antimicrobials Team sport: combine self-care, educated use of providers, and moderated community support Herbs and supports mentioned Antimicrobial herbs: Japanese knotweed, Chinese skullcap, Cryptolepis, cat’s claw, garlic Immune-modulating adaptogens: reishi, cordyceps Supportive nutrients: B vitamins, minerals, NAC, glutathione Formats: capsules and tinctures were discussed, including products like Advanced Biotic and Biome Boost within larger protocols Patient-friendly pacing Months 1–2: calm sympathetic overdrive, improve sleep, stabilize Months 3–4: protect gut, support detox, keep gentle antimicrobial pressure Months 5–6: advance to stronger combinations when the body is ready Ongoing: measure progress, maintain gain, prevent backsliding Notable quotes “The immune system always wins the game. Your job is to assist it.” “Stealth microbes grow slowly and hide in tissues. The strategy has to match the biology.” “Education and a supportive community reduce fear and make consistency possible.” Resources and links Watch the video version of this podcast interview on YouTube Read our NYFW Recap: Tick Boot Camp models at Project Labcoat and Why it Matters for Lyme Awareness, Research, and Funding

Dr. Geoff Dow, CEO of 60 Degrees Pharmaceuticals and former malaria drug developer at Walter Reed, joins the Tick Boot Camp Podcast to unpack the science and strategy behind treating babesiosis. Drawing parallels to malaria, Dow explains why tafenoquine (brand: Arakoda), FDA-approved for malaria prevention, is being studied for Babesia, how coinfections (Borrelia, Bartonella) complicate care, and why chronic illness needs a different clinical approach. He previews an upcoming Mount Sinai trial for chronic babesiosis focused on fatigue outcomes and discusses real-world diagnostics using FDA-approved blood donor screening plus PCRs from Galaxy Diagnostics and Mayo Clinic. The conversation also touches on prophylaxis concepts, immune dysregulation, and building a clearer path from anecdote to evidence for the tick-borne disease community. Guest Geoff Dow, BSc, MBA, PhD CEO & Board Member, 60 Degrees Pharmaceuticals Background: Biotechnology (Perth, Australia), PhD in malaria drug discovery, decade at Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, MBA in the U.S. Leads clinical programs exploring tafenoquine for babesiosis. Key Topics & Takeaways Malaria ↔ Babesiosis Parallels: Both are red-blood-cell parasites; acute symptoms driven by red cell destruction. Similar drug targets justify testing some anti-malarials against Babesia. Why Tafenoquine (Arakoda): An 8-aminoquinoline that induces oxidative stress in RBCs; distinct mechanism from atovaquone + azithromycin combo (current standard for acute babesiosis), potentially useful for resistance management. Chronic vs. Acute Disease: Acute babesiosis in immunocompetent patients often responds to standard care; chronic illness remains under-defined and underserved. Coinfections Are Common: Many chronically ill patients present with Borrelia, Bartonella, and Babesia together; diagnostics and treatment need to acknowledge polymicrobial reality. Upcoming Clinical Trial (Mount Sinai): Population: Chronic babesiosis with disabling fatigue, plus Babesia symptoms (e.g., air hunger, anemia) and lab evidence in the last 12 months. Regimen: 4-day loading dose then 200 mg weekly of tafenoquine for 3 months. Outcomes: Patient-reported fatigue (quality-of-life) + monthly molecular testing (FDA blood donor test, Galaxy Diagnostics PCR, Mayo Clinic PCR) during treatment and 3 months post-therapy. Goals: Demonstrate symptom improvement, assess eradication signals, and validate accessible diagnostics against an FDA-accepted assay. Prophylaxis & Post-Exposure Ideas: Animal data suggest short-course tafenoquine can eradicate early Babesia; human prophylaxis trials face feasibility and regulatory hurdles. Diagnostics Gap: Need for standardized, sensitive tools to define chronic babesiosis and track response. This trial also serves as a real-world diagnostic comparison. Immune Dysregulation & IACI: Overlap among long COVID, ME/CFS, post-treatment Lyme—shared theme of immune dysregulation with possible persistent antigen stimulation. Safety Notes: G6PD deficiency is relevant to 8-aminoquinolines; established safety database exists for malaria prevention dosing—critical as studies expand to babesiosis. Notable Quotes “You’ve got to put some lines in the sand—run the trial, collect data, and move the field forward.” “The best we can do for chronic disease starts with defining it—and validating the diagnostics we use to track it.” “8-aminoquinolines offer a different mechanism than current babesiosis standards—key for resistance and combinations.” Resources Mentioned Arakoda (tafenoquine): FDA-approved for malaria prevention; under study for babesiosis. Diagnostics: FDA-approved Babesia blood donor screen; Galaxy Diagnostics PCR; Mayo Clinic PCR. Organizations & Events: ILADS, Global Lyme Alliance, tick-borne disease conferences. Research Partners: Mount Sinai (NYC), Tulane University (Bartonella/Borrelia collaboration). Who Should Listen Patients with chronic Lyme or chronic babesiosis symptoms (fatigue, air hunger, anemia) Clinicians seeking updates on Babesia treatment research and diagnostics Caregivers and advocates tracking IACI and immune dysregulation science Researchers exploring antimalarial repurposing for tick-borne diseases Call to Action Subscribe to Tick Boot Camp and share this episode with someone navigating chronic tick-borne illness.

In this special Tick Boot Camp Podcast episode recorded live at Project Lab Coat during New York Fashion Week (NYFW), we sit down with Colonel Nicole Malachowski, USAF (Ret.). Col. Malachowski, the first female pilot of the USAF Thunderbirds and a Lyme patient advocate, walked the runway with us at Project Lab Coat and served as the sole patient representative on the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine committee that authored the landmark report on Lyme infection-associated chronic illness (Lyme IACI). She shares her perspective on why this recognition is a historic milestone for the Lyme community. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why the term Lyme IACI (infection-associated chronic illness) matters and how it creates an inclusive umbrella for persistent symptoms after Lyme infection. How the National Academies report represents the first time the U.S. government has officially recognized Lyme IACI. What it was like for Col. Malachowski to serve as the sole patient representative on the committee alongside scientists and clinicians. Why the report calls for running treatment trials in parallel with biomarker discovery so patients are not left waiting. How collaboration with long COVID and ME/CFS communities can accelerate solutions and strengthen advocacy. The role of AI and machine learning in analyzing patient data, biobanks, and surveys to identify new diagnostics and repurposed therapies. Why visibility at NYFW Project Lab Coat signals growing mainstream recognition of Lyme disease. About Col. Nicole Malachowski Col. Malachowski is a retired U.S. Air Force fighter pilot, the first woman selected to fly with the USAF Thunderbirds, and a National Women’s Hall of Fame inductee. After contracting a tick-borne illness and being medically retired, she became a nationally recognized speaker and advocate for Lyme patients. She served as the sole patient voice on the National Academies committee that authored the landmark report on Lyme IACI, commissioned with support from the Steven & Alexandra Cohen Foundation. About Project Lab Coat at New York Fashion Week Project Lab Coat was a groundbreaking event held on September 13, 2025, during New York Fashion Week (NYFW). The show brought together prominent celebrities, researchers, doctors, and advocates who were invited to walk the runway to spotlight Lyme disease and raise funds for Lyme disease research. For the first time, the global visibility of NYFW was used to highlight one of the fastest-growing infectious diseases in the world. Tick Boot Camp co-founders Matt Sabatello and Rich Johannesen, together with Dr. Tal, walked the runway at Project Lab Coat, joining leaders from medicine, science, entertainment, and advocacy. Project Lab Coat demonstrated the power of mainstream platforms to bring awareness, credibility, and resources to the fight against Lyme disease. Key Takeaways Federal recognition matters – Lyme IACI in a National Academies report marks a turning point in credibility and urgency. Patients at the center – clinical trials must include patients from design through reporting. Collaboration is key – linking Lyme, long COVID, ME/CFS, and other infection-associated conditions strengthens progress. Do both now – pursue biomarkers and cures while also running treatment studies to help patients immediately. Technology accelerates hope – AI and machine learning can unlock insights from existing patient data. Resources and Links Read the full National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine report on Lyme IACI Read our recap of Project Lab Coat at New York Fashion Week (NYFW)

In this special Tick Boot Camp Podcast episode recorded live at Project Lab Coat during New York Fashion Week (NYFW), we sit down with Dr. Michal “Mikki” Caspi Tal, Principal Scientist in the Department of Biological Engineering at MIT and Associate Scientific Director of the MIT Center for Gynepathology Research. Dr. Tal is an immunologist and immunoengineer whose groundbreaking research focuses on the connections between infections and chronic diseases, including Lyme disease and long COVID. At her Tal Research Group lab, she studies why some people recover quickly after infection while others develop chronic illness, with a focus on the immune system’s different responses in men and women. What You’ll Learn in This Episode How Dr. Tal’s lab uses mouse models of chronic Lyme and a large clinical study to take a deeper look at Lyme disease. Why some patients make a protective immune response while others develop catastrophic responses like dysautonomia, MCAS, gynecological issues, or clotting disorders. How her team is moving beyond “yes/no” antibody tests to create new biomarker diagnostics that can guide treatments. Why sex differences matter in chronic illness and why women are more likely to experience long-term symptoms after infection. How her research could lead to more personalized treatment approaches for Lyme disease patients by grouping individuals based on immune response patterns. What samples (blood, saliva, sweat, tissue) her team is collecting at MIT to uncover new insights into chronic Lyme disease. Why this research brings hope to Lyme patients who feel unseen and unheard. About Dr. Michal Caspi Tal Principal Scientist, MIT Department of Biological Engineering Associate Scientific Director, MIT Center for Gynepathology Research Focus areas: Lyme disease, long COVID, chronic inflammatory diseases, sex differences in immune response, predictive diagnostics Background: PhD in Immunobiology from Yale (mentored by Dr. Akiko Iwasaki), postdoctoral training at Stanford (Irving Weissman lab), infectious disease research leader at Stanford’s Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine. Awards: NIH NIAID F31 and F32 Fellowships, Bay Area Lyme Foundation Emerging Leader Award About Project Lab Coat at New York Fashion Week Project Lab Coat was a groundbreaking event held on September 13, 2025, during New York Fashion Week (NYFW). The show brought together prominent celebrities, researchers, doctors, and advocates who were invited to walk the runway to spotlight Lyme disease and raise funds for Lyme disease research. For the first time, the global visibility of NYFW was used to highlight one of the fastest-growing infectious diseases in the world. Tick Boot Camp co-founders Matt Sabatello and Rich Johannesen, together with Dr. Tal, walked the runway at Project Lab Coat, joining leaders from medicine, science, entertainment, and advocacy. Project Lab Coat demonstrated the power of mainstream platforms to bring awareness, credibility, and resources to the fight against Lyme disease. Why This Episode Matters For too long, chronic Lyme patients have been told their symptoms are “all in their head.” Dr. Tal’s work at MIT proves otherwise by measuring the real biological differences in immune system responses. This research not only validates patients’ experiences but also charts a course toward better diagnostics, clinical trials, and personalized treatments.

In this episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, we sit down with András Pal Bozsik, co-founder of Lyme Diagnostics Ltd and coordinator of the EU-funded DualDur® project, to discuss a disruptive new diagnostic technology that promises earlier, more accurate detection of Lyme disease. For decades, Lyme testing has relied on indirect serological methods that often miss early infection and fail chronic patients. András shares how his father’s pioneering work on Borrelia detection inspired the development of DualDur®, an AI-driven, direct detection system capable of finding Borrelia burgdorferi in blood samples at all stages of infection. We cover: Why current Lyme serology tests miss up to 60% of early infections How the DualDur® cell technology medium stabilizes and concentrates Borrelia for accurate identification The role of AI-powered automated microscopy in eliminating human error and improving sensitivity Scientific evidence of Borrelia’s genetic variation and shape-shifting every 2–3 weeks — explaining chronic infection and recurring IgM immune responses How DualDur testing can monitor treatment efficacy and guide Lyme-literate practitioners The debate over sexual transmission of Lyme and mother-to-child transmission risks Insights from clinical trials with 400 patients across Europe proving DualDur’s higher accuracy compared to standard methods The importance of combination antibiotic therapy, including overlooked options like ciprofloxacin, and why single antibiotics are rarely effective Plans to expand DualDur testing across Europe and eventually into the United States with FDA trials This groundbreaking conversation bridges science, technology, and patient care. It gives hope to millions of Lyme patients seeking a reliable test and effective treatment strategies. 🎧 Listen now to learn how DualDur could transform Lyme disease diagnostics and bring long-overdue answers to patients worldwide.

In this powerful episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, we sit down with Ciara Gaglio, a 37-year-old from Woodside, Queens, New York, whose life was completely transformed by Lyme disease. Once a vibrant, social, and creative digital media professional, Ciara’s health began to unravel in her late 20s. What followed was nearly a decade of relentless symptoms, countless misdiagnoses, and visits to over 100 doctors before finally receiving a Lyme disease diagnosis at age 36. Ciara opens up about her devastating symptoms, including unrelenting fatigue, neurological issues, full-body pain, kidney distress, and the emotional toll of isolation. She shares her treatment journey—beginning with antibiotics like doxycycline and Rocephin through a PICC line, and later expanding to supportive therapies like herbs, probiotics, yoga, ozone therapy, and more. This candid conversation sheds light on the financial, emotional, and social impact of chronic Lyme disease, as well as the resilience required to keep advocating for yourself in a medical system that too often dismisses patients. Listen to Ciara’s journey of courage, humor, and persistence in the face of chronic Lyme disease. Her message is clear: be kind to yourself, advocate fiercely, and never give up.

In this episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, we sit down with Janet Sperling, PhD, President of the Canadian Lyme Disease Foundation (CanLyme) and an accomplished entomologist whose research focuses on the bacterial microbiome of ticks across Canada. Janet’s journey with Lyme disease began when her teenage son was bitten by a tick during a family trip to California. His symptoms, starting with sinusitis and progressing to more severe illness, led to a long and frustrating medical journey involving multiple doctors, misdiagnoses, and eventually a clinical Lyme diagnosis supported by IGeneX testing. Janet shares her personal experience as a mother navigating the complexities of Lyme disease, as well as her professional expertise studying common tick species in Canada. Her research investigates the bacterial communities within these ticks, the role of bird migration in tick population spread, and the limitations of current microbiome analysis techniques. Key Discussion Points: Janet’s son’s Lyme disease story and the challenges of getting a diagnosis Differences in tick species and their bacterial microbiomes How environmental factors like bird migration contribute to the spread of tick-borne diseases The importance of prevention and early intervention in tick bite cases Why understanding tick biology is essential for public health policy in Canada How CanLyme is advancing Lyme disease research Lyme Disease Prevention Tips from Janet Sperling: Avoid tick bites by using protective clothing and repellents Perform thorough tick checks after outdoor activities Identify the tick species and feeding stage if bitten Consider tick testing when appropriate Whether you’re a Lyme patient, caregiver, or simply interested in the science behind ticks, this episode offers a unique blend of personal narrative and cutting-edge entomology research.

In this powerful episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, dancer, actress, model, and Lyme warrior Renee LeeAnn Marsden shares her extraordinary journey of surviving late-stage Lyme disease, multiple co-infections, and autoimmune encephalitis. Once bedridden, disassociating, and in a wheelchair, Renee fought her way back through a combination of stem cells, peptides, neurofeedback, and faith — and now she’s thriving as a mother and advocate. From being misdiagnosed with MS and Parkinson’s to discovering mold illness, from devastating Herxheimer reactions to life-changing treatments at Amen Clinics, Renee’s story is a beacon of hope for anyone battling chronic Lyme or feeling hopeless in their healing journey. 🎧 In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Renee’s Lyme origin story – how years of tick bites, concussions, and a mission trip to South Africa triggered a health collapse. The neurological storm – how Lyme, autoimmune encephalitis, and brain inflammation caused terrifying disassociation, hallucinations, and hospitalizations. Treatment milestones – including IV therapies, ozone, stem cells (Infusio, umbilical cord stem cells), peptides, and PK Protocol. The Amen Clinics breakthrough – the brain scans, diagnoses, and therapies (SPM Active, neurofeedback, hyperbaric oxygen) that changed everything. The hidden enemy of mold – how mold exposure stalled Renee’s recovery until she identified and removed it. The power of mindset & faith – how saying “yes to life” even in crisis helped Renee keep pushing forward, from competing in Miss Tennessee in a wheelchair to inspiring others online. Motherhood after Lyme – how Renee navigated pregnancy and new motherhood after years of chronic illness. 📌 Why You Should Listen: Renee’s journey is a masterclass in resilience, faith, and integrative healing. Whether you’re battling Lyme disease, caring for someone who is, or looking for hope when treatments fail, this episode delivers insights on: Why prehab (building your body up) is critical before aggressive killing protocols. How trauma, concussions, and infections combine to impact the brain. Why you should never let Lyme become your identity. 🎙 About Renee: Renee LeeAnn Marsden – Actress, dancer, Lyme warrior, and founder of Bright Life Co., a faith-based wellness community for women. ✨ Key Quote from Renee: “You can’t wait until you feel better to live — you have to start saying yes to life where you are.”

Kaitlyn Oleinik is a chronic illness advocate and the author of Revival: My Journey with Neuropsychiatric Lyme Disease. She was bitten by a tick at age six and spent much of her life fighting an invisible illness while being dismissed by the medical system. Diagnosed with Lyme disease and co-infections in her teens, Kaitlyn has endured everything from hallucinations and involuntary psych holds to IVIG and stem cell treatments. Her book and voice give a name to the unspoken pain of countless others living with Lyme. 📘 About the Book Revival - My Journey with Neuropsychiatric Lyme Disease is Kaitlyn’s searing memoir that chronicles her descent into neuropsychiatric Lyme, including psychosis, hospitalizations, Morgellons disease, immune collapse, and ultimately, healing and redemption. It’s a must-read for patients, caregivers, and practitioners seeking to understand the lived experience of chronic Lyme. 🔑 Episode Highlights: Kaitlyn’s suspected tick bite at age 6 and onset of strange symptoms by age 10 Dismissed by dozens of doctors who claimed she was “too pretty to be sick” The psychological toll of not being believed—and being told it was all in her head Her first psychotic break, caused by inflammation and medication interactions Misdiagnoses including delusional parasitosis and bipolar disorder Treatments: IVIG, antibiotics, glutathione, intranasal stem cells, exosomes 5150 hold and the trauma of being institutionalized without understanding How residential treatment helped her begin to recover mentally and emotionally Rebuilding her identity after gaining 100+ lbs from steroids and losing her hair How she lost everything—then reclaimed her voice, purpose, and health Writing Revival - My Journey with Neuropsychiatric Lyme Disease as an act of truth-telling and healing 💬 Powerful Quotes: “The trauma wasn’t just from Lyme—it was from not being believed.” “They said it was all in my head. But it was in my blood, my brain, my cells.” “Revival means coming back from the dead. That’s what this journey felt like.” 🧪 Medical Takeaways: Lyme disease can manifest as psychiatric illness. “Delusional parasitosis” and “antibiomania” are misunderstood and under-researched. Proper treatment can be delayed for years by misdiagnosis and stigma. Complex chronic illness often requires multi-systemic treatment and trauma-informed care. 🙌 Why You Should Listen: Kaitlyn’s story is not just about Lyme - it’s about what happens when we stop believing women, ignore invisible illnesses, and turn away from complex suffering. Her story is a rallying cry for validation, medical reform, and hope.

In this powerful episode of the TIck Boot Camp Podcast, Dr. Jaquel Patterson, nationally recognized naturopathic physician and medical director of Fairfield Family Health, joins Matt Sabatello to explore the many layers of Lyme disease recovery – from hidden mold exposure to hormone balance and mental health support. Mold & Lyme Disease – Why mold toxicity can block Lyme recovery and how Dr. Patterson stages treatment so patients don’t get overwhelmed. Hormone Health – The vital role hormones play in energy, mood, joint health, and the ability to fight chronic infections. Mental Health & Lyme – How inflammation impacts the brain, leading to panic attacks, anxiety, depression, and brain fog — and how those symptoms can reverse with healing. Low Dose Immunotherapy (LDI) – What it is, how it retrains the immune system to stop overreacting, and why it’s helping Lyme patients stabilize. Inflammation & Flares – Practical tools like turmeric, hydration, and electrolytes to calm Herxheimer reactions and ease painful flare days. Environmental Toxins – How pesticides, polluted air, and contaminated water add to the burden — and realistic steps to reduce exposure. 💡 Episode Highlights: The patient case where mold, not Lyme, was the biggest roadblock to recovery. Why Dr. Patterson tests every patient’s hormones and what imbalances mean for recovery. How turmeric is one of her go-to remedies for both inflammation and mental clarity. Why hydration and detox aren’t “basic” — they can make or break a treatment plan. What makes LDI unique: a few drops every 6–8 weeks that can dramatically shift symptoms. 🎯 Who should listen? Anyone with Lyme disease who feels “stuck” or plateaued in their healing Parents of children with PANS/PANDAS or chronic infections Listeners curious about LDI, mold recovery, hormone balance, or functional medicine 📍 Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode: Project Lab Coat – NYC Fashion Week Lyme Awareness Event Turmeric Forte by Mediherb CurcuPlex 95 by Xymogen Dr. Jaquel Pattesen, ND 🌟 About Dr. Jaquel Patterson: Dr. Patterson is a naturopathic physician and ILADS member known for her integrative work in Lyme disease, mold illness, mental health, hormone health, and immune system support.

In this powerful episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, we are joined by Dr. Daniel Warren of Envita Medical Center, a leading voice in the field of regenerative and integrative medicine, to break down the multi-layered complexity of chronic Lyme disease and its treatment. Dr. Warren takes us deep into the root causes of persistent symptoms, highlighting how chronic Lyme often results in immune dysregulation, biofilm-protected pathogens, co-infections, and central nervous system inflammation that go untreated by conventional protocols. The conversation explores the use of VSELS (Very Small Embryonic Like Stem Cells) to regenerate damaged tissue and rebalance immune function, as well as IRAD (Insulin Receptor Antibiotic Delivery)—Envita’s proprietary method of delivering antibiotics past the blood-brain barrier to treat neurological Lyme disease. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of how precision diagnostics, immune modulation, and regenerative medicine can be integrated to support lasting recovery from chronic Lyme and tick-borne disease. 🧠 What You’ll Learn How Lyme disease disrupts immune signaling, leading to chronic symptoms Why traditional antibiotics often fail to reach the central nervous system How IRAD (Insulin Receptor Antibiotic Delivery) delivers antibiotics directly to the brain to treat neurological Lyme symptoms like brain fog, memory loss, and neuropathy How IRAD also helps rebalance neurotransmitters, reduce brain inflammation, and support better sleep The science and therapeutic promise of VSELS, stem cells that remain dormant and ageless until activated Why mitochondrial dysfunction, neurotoxins, and immune collapse are central to persistent Lyme cases How Envita’s diagnostic model uses advanced testing to personalize treatment protocols The role of co-infections, mold, and environmental toxins in complicating Lyme recovery How Dr. Warren and Envita are changing the landscape of chronic illness treatment with integrative, root-cause care 📍 Featured Guest Dr. Daniel Warren is a regenerative and integrative medicine specialist at Envita Medical Center in Scottsdale, Arizona. His clinical focus includes treating chronic, treatment-resistant conditions using a combination of targeted antimicrobial therapy, stem cell science, and immune reprogramming. Through protocols like VSELS and IRAD, Dr. Warren helps patients reclaim their lives from debilitating infections, neurological symptoms, and immune system failure. 📲 Resources & Links Learn more about Envita Medical Center Follow Tick Boot Camp on Instagram Subscribe to the Tick Boot Camp Podcast 📢 Share This Episode If you or a loved one is facing neurological Lyme symptoms, chronic fatigue, or treatment-resistant co-infections, this episode may hold the answers you’ve been searching for. Share it with your community and join us in raising awareness about the future of Lyme healing through regenerative medicine and targeted immune therapies.

In this powerful episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, we welcome Dr. Diana Stafford, a conventionally trained MD turned functional medicine expert. Dr. Diana shares her personal and clinical journey into treating chronic illness, mold toxicity, Candida overgrowth, and Lyme disease using a science-based, root-cause approach. Learn how she helps patients reclaim their health through gut healing, vagus nerve support, mold detox protocols, and functional diagnostics not typically covered by traditional medicine. 🧠 What You’ll Learn How Dr. Diana transitioned from conventional medicine to functional medicine The 4 Pillars of Detox: Protect, Open, Mobilize, and Bind How mold illness mimics chronic Lyme and other conditions Why gut health is essential to healing from chronic disease Tools and protocols she uses: butyrate, binders, GI mapping, peptides, and more The role of nervous system regulation in detox and recovery How her husband’s health journey inspired her clinical passion The dangers of misdiagnosis and gaps in conventional care 🥼 About Dr. Diana Stafford Dr. Diana Stafford is mold certified by Dr. Jill Crista and has advanced training from IFM and Evan Brand. She's co-author of Conquering Mold, Candida Detox, and The Inner Journey. Widely recognized as TikTok’s top Candida expert, she empowers her community with accessible health education and functional strategies for true healing. Also, check her out on Instagram! 📣 Join the Lyme Liberation Movement If you’re battling Lyme disease, mold illness, or Candida overgrowth, this episode is your roadmap to hope and healing. Dr. Diana Stafford delivers clinical insight with compassion and clarity. Listen, learn, and start your journey to wellness today.

In this episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Tracey Gaslin, a dual-certified Pediatric and Family Nurse Practitioner and the CEO of the Alliance for Camp Health (ACH). Dr. Gaslin leads the Fight the Bite initiative, a national campaign designed to prevent Lyme and other tick-borne illnesses through science-based public health education. She discusses how camps—often overlooked as public health allies—can play a critical role in early detection, prevention, and education for tick-borne disease. With over 3,500 staff trained and 25,000 kids protected, this conversation is packed with insights and action steps for caregivers, clinicians, and camp professionals alike. 🎙️ About Our Guest: Dr. Tracey Gaslin Dual-certified Pediatric and Family Nurse Practitioner PhD in Educational & Organizational Leadership CEO of Alliance for Camp Health (ACH) National leader in pediatric care and camp-based health safety Program lead for the Fight the Bite Initiative, a partnership with SC Johnson 🏕️ What You’ll Learn Why tick-borne illness prevention must start before symptoms appear How ACH and SC Johnson are transforming summer camps into frontline health defenders The science behind prevention and the blind spots in current clinical models How parents, educators, and camp staff can be empowered—not panicked—by prevention tools Real-world strategies to protect kids in outdoor settings Join the Movement Together, we can reduce Lyme disease risk through community action and smart prevention. Whether you're a camp director, healthcare provider, or concerned parent, this episode will empower you to fight the bite—starting today.

In this powerful episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, we welcome Austin Shubert, a 27-year-old outdoorsman, hunter, and field technician from Zebulon, Georgia. He shares his deeply personal and emotional journey from vibrant health to chronic illness and back toward recovery. Raised in the woods, surrounded by ticks since childhood, Austin never imagined that a single tick bite could change his life. 🎧 Episode Highlights: 🧠 From Panic Attacks to Total Collapse Austin first experienced panic attacks in 9th grade, without ever knowing what they were. He developed intrusive thoughts and severe anxiety while unknowingly living in a mold-infested home. Years of symptoms like OCD, fatigue, brain fog, insomnia, weight loss, and heart palpitations left him broken and confused. 🧬 Misdiagnosed, Dismissed, and Gaslit Doctors misdiagnosed Austin with mono, anxiety, depression, and sinus infections. Despite clearly debilitating symptoms, he was told to “let it run its course.” LabCorp and Quest tests failed to detect Lyme or co-infections, leading to months of continued suffering. 🧪 Real Answers from Real Experts A conversation with a friend who had Lyme disease opened Austin’s eyes to the possibility of tick-borne illness. He discovered the Genesis Center in Georgia, led by Dr. Sloan. Using Vibrant and MDL Labs, he tested positive for multiple Borrelia species and Alpha-Gal Syndrome. 💉 SOT Therapy and a New Chapter Austin began treatment with SOT therapy, gut protocols, binders, methylene blue, and detox supplements. 3 months post-SOT, Austin is 70–75% recovered, has returned to work, and is off Prozac. He’s also planning to begin peptide therapy (BPC-157 and TB-500) to address lingering leg weakness. 🙏 Purpose in the Pain Austin shares how his Christian faith and relationship with God carried him through his darkest moments. He discusses helping his neighbor—who was also unknowingly battling Lyme—and how this has reinforced his belief that his suffering had a greater purpose. 🧭 Key Takeaways: Lone Star ticks don’t carry Borrelia but can cause Alpha-Gal Syndrome (AGS) and other tick-borne illnesses. Mold exposure and environmental toxins can drastically weaken the immune system, leading to chronic Lyme activation. Standard testing (LabCorp, Quest) frequently produces false negatives—specialized labs are critical. Early detection and spiritual resilience can significantly influence the Lyme healing journey. 📌 Quotes to Remember: “There is purpose in your pain. God put me through this for a reason—to help others.” – Austin Shubert “For the first time in this journey, I felt validated. I wasn’t crazy. I had Lyme disease.” – Austin Shubert

In this powerful, long-form interview, Kristina Bauer returns to the Tick Boot Camp Podcast to share her in-depth story of surviving decades of misdiagnosed Lyme disease — from childhood illness and misdiagnoses to motherhood, advocacy, and remission. Diagnosed at age 40 after 32 years of medical dismissal, Kristina discusses her experience with congenital Lyme disease in her four children, postpartum Lyme flares, and her commitment to raising awareness through the Texas Lyme Alliance, Center for Lyme Action, and International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society (ILADS) Ambassadorship. Her testimony covers essential ground: pediatric Lyme, maternal Lyme, psychiatric symptoms like Lyme rage, postpartum depression misdiagnosis, sexual transmission, and the need for insurance and diagnostic reform. This episode is a masterclass in Lyme disease education and empowerment, especially for women, mothers, and families navigating complex Lyme journeys. Key Topics Discussed Early Lyme Exposure: Tick bites at age 8 in Illinois and decades of misdiagnosis (juvenile arthritis, Crohn's, ulcers) Chronic Symptoms: Sinus infections, Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), fibromyalgia, neurological and psychiatric symptoms Postpartum Lyme Flares: Crushing fatigue, misdiagnosed postpartum depression, and suicidal ideation risk Congenital Lyme Disease: How all four of her children were born with Lyme and are now in remission Mental Health Awareness: Lyme rage, mood swings, panic attacks, and the importance of therapy Tick-Borne Disease Advocacy: Legislative work in Texas, ILADS, educating OB-GYNs, and pushing for proper diagnostic protocols Medical System Failures: Inadequate Lyme testing, gaslighting, high insurance costs for chronic illness Lyme & Pregnancy Research Study: An open call for pregnant individuals diagnosed with Lyme disease during their current pregnancy, OR with post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome (PTLDS) in the past 5 years. Learn More / Apply Kristina's Healing Protocols IV and Oral Antibiotics (33 pills/day for 4 years) Ozone Sauna Therapy Dual Infrared Sauna IV Glutathione and Vitamin C Autologous Stem Cell Therapy Advocacy Calls to Action Get tested with qualified Lyme-literate doctors (LLMDs) Pre-conception testing for both partners Consider cord blood testing for newborns (e.g., IGeneX) Push back against “one-dose doxycycline” treatment myths Advocate for maternal and congenital Lyme research funding Check out Kristina's Integrative Nutrition Health Coaching Memorable Quotes “Infection turned into action is the mindset I pass forward.” “A mom with Lyme can’t be left alone with crushing fatigue and a newborn — it’s not just postpartum, it’s pathology.” “Doxy is not a one-stop shop. One tick bite can carry 19 pathogens with 100 strains.”

In this inspiring episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, host Matt Sabatello and special guest co-host Kaitlyn Oleinik, author of the upcoming memoir Revival: My Journey with Neuropsychiatric Lyme Disease, sit down with Tracy Mulholland—actress, writer, producer, singer, and Lyme warrior. Tracy is the creator and star of the award-winning mini-series Girl at a Bar, a powerful and entertaining scripted series based on her true experience with chronic Lyme disease. Tracy shares her harrowing 15-year health journey, including being misdiagnosed by over 50 doctors, living with neurological and musculoskeletal Lyme, and the physical and emotional fallout from multiple co-infections like Babesia and Mycoplasma, and black mold exposure. She reveals how she turned that suffering into storytelling—using humor, vulnerability, and her passion for acting to build a bridge between the chronic illness community and the broader public. She also opens up about her experiences with neuroplasticity therapy, IV antibiotics, herbal protocols, and her evolution into a certified health and executive functioning coach through Tracy Eve Coaching. This conversation offers both validation and empowerment—perfect for Lyme patients, creatives with chronic illness, and anyone passionate about shifting public understanding of invisible disease. 💡 Key Takeaways Tracy was bitten by a tick after college but had symptoms dating back to high school. Misdiagnosed for two years, she was eventually diagnosed with Lyme, Babesia, and Mycoplasma via IGeneX testing. Her arms became so painful she couldn’t brush her hair, and after a failed surgery, she lost her voice for weeks. Girl at a Bar was born from a solo bar ritual she used pre- and post-illness to reclaim her confidence. The series, funded by Bay Area Lyme Foundation, is one of the first scripted shows to authentically depict life with chronic Lyme. Tracy now works as a coach for people with Lyme, ADHD, and long COVID, helping clients with executive function, fatigue, pacing, and mindset.

In this powerful episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Myriah Hinchey, a Lyme-literate naturopathic physician whose personal battle with Lyme disease, Babesia, and Bartonella shaped her pioneering approach to treatment. Dr. Hinchey is the founder and medical director of Tao Center for Vitality, Longevity & Optimal Health, creator of LymeCore Botanicals, and founder of LymeBytes, a global educational platform for Lyme disease. Dr. Hinchey shares how her journey from misdiagnosed childhood infections to a transformative diagnosis in her mid-30s inspired a career of advocacy and innovation in integrative Lyme treatment. Discover why she believes most chronic Lyme sufferers can heal — and how focusing on terrain, immune modulation, gut health, and targeted herbal antimicrobials makes recovery possible. 🧠 Key Topics Covered Dr. Hinchey’s personal tick bite experience and overlooked symptoms during childhood How stress and immune collapse triggered her Lyme, Babesia, Bartonella, and Mycoplasma symptoms Why most chronic Lyme treatments fail: lessons from antibiotic relapses Her turning point with herbalist Stephen Buhner’s protocols How LymeCore Botanicals was born to fill gaps in Lyme patient care Why treating the terrain (gut, detox, immune) is essential before antimicrobials The science behind Ashwagandha balancing immune branches (Th1/Th2) The importance of biofilm busting, cytokine modulation, and immune recalibration Dr. Hinchey's clinical protocol: from pre-kill phase to maintenance Case studies: why some patients heal faster with herbal-only protocols 🌿 Featured Products on LymeCore Botanicals® Vitamin and Mineral Cofactors – Foundational for cellular healing OmegaCore (EPA/DHA) – Anti-inflammatory support Ashwagandha – Adaptogen balancing stress and immunity GABA Melts/Chews – For anxiety and neurological calm Inflam-X - Bind, detox, inflammation, and herx support BorreliaCore, BartCore, BabCore – Targeted herbal blends for Lyme and co-infections 📍 About Dr. Myriah Hinchey Licensed in CT and NH International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society (ILADS) member Medical Academy of Pediatric Special Needs (MAPS) Fellow Trained under Drs. Richard Horowitz, Stephen Buhner, Neil Nathan, Nancy O’Hara, Mark Hyman, and Jeff Bland. 🔗 Related Resources LymeCore Botanicals Tao Vitality - Center for Optimal Health LymeBytes Symposium 💬 Memorable Quotes > “There’s no amount of antibiotics that will cure Lyme if the terrain isn’t healed.” – Dr. Hinchey > “I didn’t understand the power of herbs—until they healed me when antibiotics couldn’t.” > “Most people relapse because they never repaired the immune system. The microbiome is everything.” 📢 Call to Action Like what you heard? Share this episode with someone struggling with Lyme. Subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify to help more people discover hope and healing!

In this episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, we sit down with Mark Ouellette, a retired law enforcement officer, professional bodybuilder, and former wrestler from the Boston, Massachusetts area. Mark shares his powerful story of overcoming chronic Lyme disease, including years of misdiagnoses, debilitating symptoms, and his battle to reclaim his health and identity. 🔎 Key Topics Covered 🧬 Mark’s Early Symptoms and Missed Diagnoses Migraines and memory issues began in 2015 Brain MRI revealed "spots" but Lyme was never tested Misdiagnosed with early-stage dementia and vasculitis Official Lyme diagnosis came in June 2021 via a blood test 🦠 Triggers and the Turning Point Contracted COVID-19 in September 2020, triggering severe Lyme symptoms Rapid health decline: joint pain, insomnia, fatigue, brain fog 💥 Life Before Lyme 20-year law enforcement career Competed in bodybuilding and professional wrestling Lived a high-performance, high-stress lifestyle 💊 Treatments and Protocols 3+ months of doxycycline (worsened gut issues) Herbal protocols: Japanese Knotweed, Wormwood, Black Walnut Detox strategies: ionic foot baths, binders, gut cleanse Energy and frequency therapies: RIFE, low-level laser, PEMF mat Supplements: injectable glutathione, vitamin B complex, magnesium soaks, colostrum, Essiac Hormonal support: testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) 🧠 Cognitive Recovery and Lessons Severe short-term memory loss episodes TRT and clean nutrition helped restore clarity Emphasis on gut-brain connection and inflammation management 📈 Recovery Status and Advice Today, Mark is 70–85% recovered and working part-time. He has returned to weight training and feels better than he has in years. Advice to Lyme patients: “Take it one day at a time. Be open to trying everything. Track what works and don’t give up.” Advice to those who are not sick: “Check yourself, your kids, and your pets. If you find a tick, get it tested. Prevention is key.” 🧪 Featured Products and Therapies Dr. Natura Colonix 30-Day Cleanse Resciency Binder+ Comprehensive Detox PEMF Mat by HealthyLine Essiac Herbal Tea RIFE and low-level laser therapies Grass-fed colostrum and herbal tinctures 🎧 Listen Now If you're struggling with chronic Lyme disease or know someone who is, this episode is packed with powerful insights, recovery strategies, and hard-earned wisdom from a true Lyme warrior. Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and everywhere podcasts are streamed.

In this powerful and deeply personal episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, Doug Morrow, a retired Hofstra University professor and professional musician, shares how a family outing to the Morton Bird Sanctuary in April 2012 changed his life. Doug went on a picnic after visiting the bird sanctuary with his 6-year-old son, Antonio, and his wife, Diane. He found a tick biting him the day after the picnic. Just months later, Doug developed mysterious, recurring fevers that doctors struggled to diagnose. It wasn’t until a medical emergency during a trip to California that Doug learned he had Babesiosis, a life-threatening parasitic infection spread by ticks. With the tireless advocacy of his wife Diane and the sharp eye of a California infectious disease doctor, Doug was properly diagnosed and began a months-long recovery that included antimalarial medications, blood transfusions, and natural remedies. Today, Doug reflects on the importance of early detection, preventive care, and maintaining a strong immune system through lifestyle, diet, and love. 🧭 Key Topics Discussed: ✅ Tick bite during Easter break in East Hampton, NY ✅ Early symptoms: intermittent fevers, misdiagnosis ✅ Emergency room visits and missteps ✅ Babesiosis diagnosis and spleen involvement ✅ The critical role of Diane’s advocacy ✅ Recovery, red blood cell destruction, and blood transfusions ✅ Natural repellents and tick prevention strategies ✅ Organic lawn care, tick tubes, and essential oils ✅ Life lessons: stress reduction, nutrition, love, and spiritual health ✅ Reflections on health, gratitude, and retirement 🛡️ Prevention Tips from Doug & Diane Morrow: Use natural tick repellents with lemongrass, eucalyptus, tea tree oil, and white vinegar Apply frequently, especially during outdoor activity Maintain short-cut lawns, avoid watering, and plant lavender as a natural repellent Use tick tubes to reduce mouse-based tick populations Prioritize organic lawn care to protect local ecosystems Check for ticks daily – especially on children Advocate for yourself and your family in healthcare settings 🕒 Timestamped Highlights: 00:03 – Doug’s background: musician, educator, polymath 10:05 – Growing up in Stony Brook and Smithtown; early tick awareness 31:01 – The 2012 tick bite and mysterious fevers 36:58 – Emergency room misdiagnosis and worsening symptoms 45:08 – Babesiosis diagnosis and hospital treatment 52:16 – Return to Long Island and local follow-up care 58:15 – Dr. Clawson’s care and herbal support during recovery 1:02:15 – Acupuncture and natural treatments 1:07:02 – Doug’s current preventive practices and immune support 1:23:26 – Environmental and lifestyle contributors to tick-borne illness 1:26:13 – Final reflections on health, balance, and love