The Lyme+ Podcast

What happens when your "Type A" drive to heal actually becomes a barrier to your recovery?Inside the Episode:[09:21] The Perfect Storm: How a trip to India and a snowboarding accident triggered a decade of undiagnosed illness.[14:40] Rock Bottom in Portland: The moment mold toxicity broke Jake’s "mind over matter" strategy.[17:57] The Bag of Toxins: A look inside the apheresis process in Germany and the power of "visualizing" the detox.[24:30] The 20% to 80% Jump: Why stopping treatment and surrendering to faith accelerated Jake's healing.[33:10] The Mad Libs Framework: A tangible tool for communicating your struggle to doctors and loved ones without losing your power.[37:30] Case Overviews: How to turn a four-inch binder of medical records into a one-page "strategic strike" for your next appointment.[41:30] The Dental Connection: Why biological dentistry and "cavitations" are the missing piece for many chronic Lyme patients.[51:50] The 2-Minute Rule: A simple digital wellness habit to protect your nervous system every morning.The "Jubu" Path: How Jake integrated Eastern mindfulness (Tai Chi) and Western faith to find internal ease amidst physical chaos.Self-Advocacy: Why you must be the "Driver" of your health journey, while practitioners serve as the "Support Crew."Biological Dentistry: How hidden infections in the jawbone (cavitations) can constantly release toxins into your system, blocking recovery.Connect with Jake here:Lyme Warrior Workshop: https://calendly.com/jakemayerscoaching/from-invisible-to-heardInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jakemayerscoaching/ Substack: https://substack.com/@jakemayers Digital Resources (Daily Dose + Case Overview): https://www.etsy.com/shop/GoodDayGuides Book a Free Consultation: https://calendly.com/jakemayerscoaching/chronic-illness-consultation

Episode Title:From Medical Gaslighting to Building a Healing Community: Sami Kirschbaum on Lyme ResilienceEpisode Description:Sami Kirschbaum was undiagnosed with Lyme disease for nearly a decade. Growing up in Wisconsin, symptoms started in elementary school. Stomach issues, constant trips to the health room. Things escalated when she contracted Epstein-Barr virus at 16, landing her on bed rest for four months. Every year brought something new: joint pain, migraines, neck pain, fatigue that never lifted. No one connected the dots.When a surgery during grad school sent her health into freefall, a doctor told her it was "just depression." Sami pushed for testing. Her Lyme test came back positive. Then they took the diagnosis away because she had four CDC bands instead of five.That experience lit a fire.In this episode, Sami shares how she found whole body hyperthermia treatment at Clinic St. George in Germany. A 6-hour procedure under anesthesia that heats the body to temperatures Lyme bacteria cannot survive. She was inpatient for 35 days, completed two rounds, and walked away with the thing she wanted most: her cognitive function back.Sami also gives a live demonstration of brain spotting therapy with host Kenzie Bath. She breaks down how the modality works and why "where you look affects how you feel." Unlike talk therapy, brain spotting accesses the subcortical brain where trauma is actually stored, making it especially effective for the grief, medical PTSD, and chronic pain that so many in the Lyme community carry. Sami is a licensed therapist in Minnesota, currently completing her training at the Brain Spotting Institute with graduation on May 7th, and working with the Rocky Mountain Brain Institute.We also cover mold illness: how it compounds Lyme symptoms, how to navigate testing and remediation, and the emotional toll of losing your home and belongings to a problem you didn't know existed. Sami lived in a camper for two years after mold forced her out of her house before relocating to Scottsdale, Arizona for dry heat, more vitamin D, and a fresh start.Today, Sami is the founder of the Lyme Resilience Collective, where she offers individual brain spotting sessions, a 4-week Nervous System Regulation Support Group, and free monthly community meetups. She partners with the Ticked Off Foundation to provide reduced-fee services for patients facing financial hardship and recently delivered her first presentation educating mental health therapists on the impacts of Lyme disease on mental health.Her message: healing takes time, the dark seasons don't last forever, and the fact that you're listening means a part of you already knows you can get better.CONNECT WITH SAMI Email: [email protected] Instagram: @lymeresilencecollective TikTok: @lymeresilencecollectiveMENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Lyme Resilience CollectiveClinic St. George (Germany)Ticked Off FoundationEnvita Medical CenterBrain Spotting InstituteRocky Mountain Brain InstituteMold Finders (Brian Karr)

In this eye-opening episode of the Lyme+ Podcast, Sarah Quillen, Executive Director of ILADS, the International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society, joins us to pull back the curtain on what it actually takes to train physicians to recognize, diagnose, and treat tick-borne illness at every stage.Sarah brings over 25 years of nonprofit leadership to this role, and her path here is deeply personal. Her father was misdiagnosed with leukemia — steps away from starting the wrong treatment, before a correct diagnosis of Bartonella and Babesia finally changed the course of his care. That story became the entry point into a world she now helps lead.In this conversation, Sarah breaks down exactly what ILADS does, why it was founded, and why expanding physician education is the single most important lever for changing patient outcomes.Key Topics Covered:What ILADS is and why it's the only multidisciplinary medical society of its kind in the worldThe vectorborne illness fundamentals course, preceptorship program, and newly launched fellowshipWhy acute Lyme is far rarer than most assume — and what that means for the chronic patient majorityThe informal peer network inside ILADS that becomes a lifeline for newly practicing physiciansWhy "Lyme" is a catch-all — and why the real conversation is Bartonella, Babesia, and RickettsiaLyme's political moment: HHS roundtables, the current administration, and what's on the horizonThe growing global crisis and what ILADS is doing in Poland, the Nordic countries, and beyondThe new pediatric committee and the gap in children's hospital education. How to find an ILADS provider, what membership costs, and how to apply for grants through ISADEVThe views expressed on Lyme+ are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of Global Lyme Alliance, Inc., or its affiliates. The content is informational and not medical advice. Global Lyme Alliance does not endorse any specific product or treatment. Always consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.We are the Global Lyme Alliance. Our mission is to cure Lyme and other tick-borne diseases through innovative research, awareness, and empowering the patient voice.Our vision is a world free of Lyme and other tick-borne diseases.

Babesia is hiding in plain sight, and the data gap is bigger than most people realize.In this episode of the Lyme+ Podcast, host Kenzie Vath sits down with Dr. Geoff Dow, PhD, Founder and CEO of 60 Degrees Pharmaceuticals, for a conversation that starts personal and gets deeply scientific. Dr. Dow's own entry into the Lyme world came through his wife's diagnosis in Marin County, California, a region that doesn't appear on official Lyme maps. That experience shaped everything: the importance of acting on caution, not waiting for a perfect diagnosis, and the very real consequences of data gaps in tick-borne illness.The official case count for Babesiosis sits at 2,000 to 3,000 per year. 60 Degrees' own claims analysis suggests the real number is at least 25,000, and that's still likely an undercount, given how little awareness exists around the disease. Dr. Dow breaks down why the numbers are so distorted, what it takes to actually define a case without reliable diagnostics, and why the blood bank screening assay (roughly 1,000 times more sensitive than anything commercially available to physicians) represents one of the starkest diagnostic gaps in modern medicine.This is one of the most grounded, science-forward conversations we've had on the podcast, and one of the most urgent.🔬 WHAT WE COVER:Dr. Dow's personal entry point into Lyme and tick-borne illness researchHow tafenoquine (ARAKODA®) targets Babesia at the cellular levelWhy official Babesiosis case counts are a fraction of the real burdenThe three active clinical trials 60 Degrees is running and the FDA timelineWhy diagnostics are the foundational problem that has to be solved firstThe long COVID parallel and what it means for chronic illness legitimacyWhy 60 Degrees is often the only pharma company at ILADS conferences and what that says about the spaceABOUT GLOBAL LYME ALLIANCE (GLA)The Lyme+ Podcast is produced by Global Lyme Alliance (GLA) — the leading 501(c)(3) dedicated to conquering Lyme and tick-borne diseases through research, education, and awareness. GLA funds the most promising scientific research, accelerates better diagnostics and treatments, and empowers patients and families navigating tick-borne illness.🔗 Visit us at: www.globallymealliance.orgABOUT DR. GEOFF DOW, PhDDr. Geoff Dow is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of 60 Degrees Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ: SXTP), a clinical-stage pharmaceutical company focused on developing new treatments for infectious diseases. 🔗 Learn more about 60 Degrees Pharmaceuticals: ⁠www.60degreespharma.com⁠⚠️ DISCLAIMERThe views expressed in this episode are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of Global Lyme Alliance (GLA). This episode is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition, diagnosis, or treatment.

What if treating Lyme directly isn't actually the first step toward healing? In this episode, host Kenzie Bath sits down with board-certified health coach Meg Crockett — founder of Meg Crockett Health — to unpack why the order of your healing protocol matters just as much as the protocol itself.Meg's journey began not with a Lyme diagnosis, but with an infection following an egg retrieval procedure that landed her in the hospital multiple times, led to sepsis, and ultimately became the catalyst for a complete career and lifestyle transformation. What followed was six years of investigating the root causes hiding beneath the surface — mold toxicity, parasites, co-infections, and the nervous system's role in all of it.Her framework is simple but powerful: clear the terrain first, then address the infection. In this episode, you'll learn:Why mold toxicity is often the first layer to address — and how to test your home accurately using the ERMI testThe truth about parasites: why they're more common than you think, why standard gut tests miss them, and how to cleanse safelyHow Lyme co-infections like Babesia and Bartonella respond to herbal protocols — and why Meg has never used antibiotics for LymeThe connection between endometriosis, cysts, and Lyme that rarely gets discussedWhy emotional well-being and nervous system regulation are non-negotiable parts of physical healingWhat Meg's 4-month private coaching program looks like and who it's designed forResources & Mentions:Vibrant Wellness Tickborne 2.0 PanelERMI Home Mold Test / Micrometrics Lab (NJ)Great Plains Mycotoxin TestCellCore Biosciences parasite protocolIS-4 herbal tincture (Bartonella)GI-MAP & Vibrant Gut ZoomerNicole Sachs — The Cure for Chronic Pain journaling methodInstitute for Integrative Nutrition (IIN)Connect with Meg Crockett:🌐 megcrocketthealth.com📱 Instagram & TikTok: @megcrocketthealthThe Lyme+ Podcast is produced by the Global Lyme Alliance. This episode is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.

What happens when you’ve tried every antibiotic, every shaman, and every "heavy hitter" protocol, but you’re still getting worse? For Theresa Piela, that breaking point came when she hit 79 pounds and was faced with the reality of a feeding tube.In this episode of Lyme+, Kenzie and Dan sit down with Theresa, an EFT practitioner and chronic illness coach—to discuss the missing piece in many healing journeys: The Nervous System. Theresa shares her harrowing journey through "medical PTSD," the trauma of being sick, and how she eventually "tapped" her way back to health, joy, and even singing in a bluegrass band.If you feel stuck in a "fixing" mindset or paralyzed by food fear, this conversation is a roadmap for moving from survival mode into true physiological safety.The "Walking Alien" Phase: Theresa’s journey through Lyme, Babesia, Bartonella, and the moment she realized her desperation to heal was actually keeping her sick.What is EFT Tapping? The science behind Emotional Freedom Technique and how it physically signals the amygdala to turn off the fight-or-flight response.Medical & Body PTSD: Why the hyper-fixation on symptoms (scanning for bloat, fatigue, and pain) creates a loop of dysregulation.The "Fixing" vs. "Healing" Mindset: Why militant research and rigid protocols can sometimes act as a stressor rather than a solution.From Carnivore to Food Freedom: How Theresa overcame severe Mast Cell (MCAS) reactions and reintroduced foods by changing her emotional response to eating.Self-Soothing for Adults: Why we stop soothing ourselves as we age, and how to bring back tonal frequencies, humming, and touch to calm the body.Finding the "Afterglow": The profound healing power of music, creativity, and scanning for beauty in the environment.Theresa Piela is an EFT practitioner, chronic illness coach, and the founder of Living Roots Wellness. Through her app, Tapping with T, she helps individuals with chronic illness navigate the complex world of nervous system regulation and trauma release. She is also a member of the bluegrass band, The Lightweight Travelers.Instagram: @livingrootswellnessWebsite/App: Tapping with TMusic: Search "Lightweight Travelers" on YouTube

In this episode, Dan and Kenzie sit down with Jason Earle, the founder of GotMold©, to explore why mold is often the "missing piece" for those struggling with chronic Lyme. Jason explains the "Building as an Organism" metaphor, detailing how our homes act as an extension of our immune systems. The conversation covers the science of inflammatory pathways, the neurotoxic effects of the "musty smell," and practical advice for listeners to "see, smell, and feel" their way to a healthier environment.[08:30] The "Kissing Cousins": Why you can't recover from Lyme in a moldy environment.[17:40] The Exo-Skin: Thinking of your home as an extension of your immune system.[24:45] See, Smell, Feel: Practical red flags for detecting hidden moisture and toxins.[43:00] The Biological Building: Comparing home maintenance to chronic inflammation and cellular health.[48:00] Future Tech: Graphene-based cement and the next generation of mold-proof housing.Ready to test your home? Use the link and code below to access professional-grade air sampling kits and a free expert guide to finding mold.Special Offer: Use code Lyme10 for 10% OFF all products and services.Welcome Page: GotMold.com/LymePlusFree eBook: How to Find Mold (available at the link above).

In this episode of Lyme+, Kenzie sits down with Brooke Geahan, founder of The Heal Hive and a leading advocate for bee venom therapy (BVT), to unpack one of the most provocative—and misunderstood—modalities in the chronic Lyme space.Brooke shares her journey from thriving New Yorker to being bedridden, passing out from severe POTS, living on just a handful of “safe” foods, and watching her career and finances collapse under the weight of late-stage Lyme, Babesia, and Bartonella. At the very end of her financial and physical rope, a chance conversation at a Lyme clinic led her back to bee venom therapy—and changed everything.Now, as the head of The Heal Hive, Brooke combines comprehensive lab testing, nervous system support, and structured BVT protocols to help patients navigate this therapy more safely and strategically. In this deeply educational and emotional conversation, she explains why she almost walked away from the Lyme community altogether—and what pulled her back in.In this episode, we discuss:Brooke’s early Lyme story: from magazine life in NYC to wheelchairs, collapse spells, and severe POTSHow a Lyme nurse, a handful of bees, and a very frugal dad pushed her to seriously revisit bee venom therapyWhy Brooke believes comprehensive testing (300+ biomarkers) is non-negotiable alongside any BVT protocolA lay explanation of the science she references:How components of bee venom like melittin are being studied for effects on bacteria and biofilmsWhy mast cell issues and immune dysregulation are such big players in chronic Lyme—and how she sees BVT interacting with themThe philosophy behind The Heal Hive: slow, structured, data-driven stinging; “marathon, not sprint”; and “it’s ok to have discomfort, not ok to have dysfunction”How Brooke talks to skeptical physicians and why understanding the science helps patients advocate for themselvesSustainability & the bees: beekeeping, glyphosate, and why she believes thoughtful BVT can coexist with protecting pollinatorsBrooke also reflects on her appearance in the Netflix docuseries Unwell, how BVT exploded on social media, and why she still encourages listeners to move slowly, ask hard questions, and never abandon critical thinking, no matter how desperate they feel.Important Note: This episode shares Brooke’s personal experience and perspectives on bee venom therapy. It is not medical advice. Bee venom therapy can carry serious risks, including allergic reactions and anaphylaxis, and is not appropriate for everyone. Always consult with a knowledgeable expert, physician or healthcare professional before considering any new treatment. Global Lyme Alliance does not endorse any specific product or treatment.Connect with Brooke:Instagram: @thehealhiveWebsite: thehealhive.comPersonal IG: @everydayexpert (warning: lots of adorable toddler content)💚 If this conversation resonated with you, please follow, rate, and review Lyme+. Share this episode with someone navigating chronic illness who might need a reminder that there are still avenues to explore, and that they’re not alone.

What’s actually happening in Washington for Lyme and tick-borne diseases—and does it ever really move the needle?In this episode of the Lyme+ Podcast, host Kenzie Vath sits down with Megan Bradshaw, Government Relations Manager for Center for Lyme Action, to pull back the curtain on how federal funding, legislation, and advocacy campaigns are changing the landscape for Lyme patients and their families.Megan shares her personal “patient-to-advocate” story, how a virtual congressional briefing from her parents’ recliner turned into a full-time mission on Capitol Hill, and why she believes we’re entering the “golden age” of Lyme and tick-borne disease advocacy.Megan Bradshaw is the Government Relations Manager at Center for Lyme Action, where she leads federal advocacy efforts to secure funding and drive policy change for Lyme and tick-borne diseases. A patient herself, Megan channels her lived experience into strategic work on Capitol Hill—coordinating with agencies like HHS, CDC, NIH, and DoD, and helping build one of the largest Lyme advocacy networks in the country.Learn more about Center for Lyme Action and get involved at centerforlymeaction.orgEpisode SponsorsTickTock Naturals — Organic Insect RepellentProtect your crew from ticks, mosquitoes, and spiders—without synthetic chemicals. TickTock Naturals is organic, cruelty-free (PETA-certified), eco-friendly, and designed to last 4–5 hours, even on swim or workout days.👉 Lyme+ listeners get 20% off with code GLA at ticktocknaturals.com.Because prevention is powerful.Vital Plan — Restore 180 by Dr. RawlsRestore 180 is a six-month herbal program designed to support the nervous system, gut repair, and microbial balance—for those focused on sustainable healing, not quick fixes.👉 Learn more at vitalplan.com and look for Restore 180.

Functional-medicine physician Dr. Casey Kelley, MD (Case Integrative Health) joins hosts Dan Wagner and Kenzie Vath to unpack why chronic Lyme is rarely “just Lyme.” We dig into co-infections (Babesia, Bartonella), POTS/dysautonomia, mold + MCAS, nervous-system regulation, and the biggest myths about testing and treatment. Dr. Kelley explains when antibiotics vs. herbs make sense (minocycline, rifampin/rifabutin, malarone/tafenoquine, dapsone, pulsing strategies), why gut + liver support determine tolerance, and how diet (gluten/dairy/sugar), vagus nerve work, and 80/20 consistency accelerate recovery. We also cover long-COVID overlap, ILADS clinician training, and what a “medical detective” intake actually looks like.If you or a loved one is navigating persistent Lyme symptoms, this episode offers actionable next steps, and hope.Quick takeaways​It’s rarely just Lyme. Co-infections, mold, and MCAS commonly overlap.​Protocols are personalized. Antibiotics and herbs both have a place; tolerance and gut health decide the pace.​Foundations first. Removing gluten, dairy, sugar + consistent stress regulation often unlock progress.​Nervous system > everything. Breathwork and vagus-nerve inputs calm inflammation loops.​Clinician training matters. ILADS offers a path for complex-illness care.​Case Integrative Health (Chicago): discovery calls, team-based care​ILADS: fundamentals, preceptorships, international conferences​Groundwork for Healing (Dr. Kelley’s course): diet, sleep, stress, detox basics​Tools: Apollo Neuro, compression, high-salt hydration (for POTS)TickTock Naturals — Organic Insect RepellentProtect your crew from ticks, mosquitoes, and spiders—without synthetic chemicals. TickTock Naturals is organic, cruelty-free (PETA-certified), eco-friendly, and designed to last 4–5 hours (even on swim or workout days). Lyme+ listeners get 20% off with code GLA at ticktocknaturals.com Because prevention is powerful.)Vital Plan — Restore 180 by Dr. RawlsA six-month herbal program to support the nervous system, gut repair, and microbial balance—for those building sustainable healing, not quick fixes. Learn more at vitalplan.com.

In this episode of Lyme+, hosts Kenzie Vath and Dan Wagner sit down with writer and advocate Jennifer Crystal to explore her journey through Lyme disease and the impact her words have had on the community. From her early diagnosis and treatment choices to her ongoing role as a patient voice for the Global Lyme Alliance, Jen opens up about the challenges and resilience that define her story.Jennifer is also the author of One Tick Stopped the Clock: A Memoir of Lyme Disease — her powerful personal story of resilience, advocacy, and hope. 📚 Order the book hereThrough honesty, vulnerability, and hard-won wisdom, Jen shows how storytelling can be both a tool for healing and a beacon of hope for others still in the trenches.Jennifer’s history and diagnosis story (7:30)The reality of Herxheimer reactions (15:00)Why Jen chose a PICC line over oral antibiotics—and how it changed her recovery timeline (17:00)How her pen became a voice for the Lyme and GLA community (21:00)Discovering GLA and building a connection through writing (26:20)Where she finds inspiration for her blog posts (28:00)Kenzie and Jen discuss navigating PTSD as both podcast hosts and writers (34:00)Jen’s advice on finding LLMDs and building a care team (41:30)The most surprising and memorable FAQ Jen has ever received (30:00)Through honesty, vulnerability, and hard-won wisdom, Jennifer shows how storytelling can be both a tool for healing and a beacon of hope for others still in the trenches.This episode is made possible by ⁠Restore 180 from Vital Plan.⁠ If you're dealing with Lyme or chronic illness, you know healing isn’t a quick fix. Backed by Dr. Bill Rawls and , ⁠Restore180⁠ is a 6-month, phased program designed to restore gut health, calm your nervous system, strengthen immunity, and target the microbes driving your symptoms — all while supporting your body’s natural healing process. 👉 Learn more at: ⁠https://vitalplan.com/products/restore180⁠

Nicole Bell’s family faced a devastating reality when her husband, Russ, was diagnosed with late-stage Alzheimer’s along with Lyme, Babesia, and Bartonella. Nicole shares her path from caregiver to author and advocate. She discusses the painful moment of telling her children “Daddy is sick,” the lessons she’s learned about asking for help, and why she wrote What Lurks in the Woods.Nicole also offers critical insights into the evolving science of tick-borne disease testing through her work with Galaxy Diagnostics- exploring advanced PCR, strategic plans for insurance coverage, and new multi-pathogen tests coming to market. Whether you’re a caregiver, patient, or advocate, Nicole’s story is both heartbreaking and hopeful, offering practical advice and a vision for improved standards of care.The caregiver experience: Nicole’s advice to caregivers (8:05, 11:54, 14:50, 21:30), the emotional toll of telling her son “Daddy is sick” (17:00), and writing What Lurks in the Woods after Russ entered resident care (19:50). Why Lyme antibody testing is only ~50% accurate, how Galaxy Diagnostics uses advanced PCR to improve reliability (26:00–31:00), and what’s next in testing for Borrelia, Babesia, and Bartonella (38:00). Galaxy’s strategic plan: Supporting insurance reimbursement, raising standards of care, and helping physicians adopt new approaches (33:00+). Protecting kids and families from tick-borne diseases (46:40), Bartonella’s flea transmission risks (49:30), and current areas of research such as PANS/PANDAS (43:55).This episode is made possible by Restore 180 from Vital Plan. If you're dealing with Lyme or chronic illness, you know healing isn’t a quick fix. Backed by Dr. Bill Rawls and , Restore180 is a 6-month, phased program designed to restore gut health, calm your nervous system, strengthen immunity, and target the microbes driving your symptoms — all while supporting your body’s natural healing process. 👉 Learn more at: https://vitalplan.com/products/restore180

What happens when the world of high fashion collides with the urgent need for Lyme disease awareness? Project Lab Coat is transforming the runway into a platform for Lyme disease awareness, research, and patient support.In this episode, Dan sits down with co-host Kenzie Vath, Christina Kovacs (Runway7), Ali Moresco (Board Chair, Project Lyme), and Phyllis Bedford (Co-founder & Executive Director, Lymelight Foundation ) to discuss the vision, challenges, and hopes behind Project Lab Coat. From the spark of an idea to its debut on the NYFW platform, they share how this collaboration can uplift advocacy, connect communities, and drive a new era of visibility for Lyme.Listeners will hear about:Why NYFW is the perfect platform to spotlight Lyme (9:40)The origin story of Project Lab Coat and its first conversations (13:05)How Project Lab Coat aims to create powerful “aha” moments of awareness (32:50)Why this initiative touches on every challenge Lyme patients face (42:30)From the spark of an idea to the power of collaboration, the guests explore how fashion can drive advocacy, highlight patient stories, and create lasting impact for the Lyme community. ✨ Learn more and get involved at projectlabcoat.comThis episode is made possible by Restore180. If you're dealing with Lyme or chronic illness, you know healing isn’t a quick fix. Backed by Dr. Bill Rawls and Vital Plan, Restore180 is a 6-month, phased program designed to restore gut health, calm your nervous system, strengthen immunity, and target the microbes driving your symptoms — all while supporting your body’s natural healing process. 👉 Learn more at: https://vitalplan.com/products/restore180

In this episode of Lyme+, we sit down with the team behind Ravel Health, a groundbreaking telehealth platform built specifically for patients navigating chronic illnesses like Lyme disease, mold toxicity, MCAS, fibromyalgia, and more.Ravel Health is on a mission to dismantle barriers in chronic care — tackling affordability, access, and the devastating impact of medical gaslighting. With a growing provider network and a powerhouse Advisory Team (including the recent addition of Dr. Bill Rawls, MD, as Chief Medical Officer), Ravel is creating a future where patients are finally heard, believed, and supportedTune in to hear how Ravel is redefining care for the chronic illness community and building a new healthcare model from the ground up.⏱️ Timestamps & Highlights:4:00 – What is Ravel Health, and how is it different? 5:00 – Types of patients they serve: Lyme, mold, co-infections, and beyond 13:30 – Chronic illness spectrum: MCAS, fibromyalgia, mold, etc. 25:00 – The advantage of telehealth for Lyme & chronic illness patients. 37:00 – Ravel's role in research for Lyme and TBDs. 39:00 – Building a high-level treatment framework for new patientsTo learn more, visit ravel.health.This episode is made possible by Restore180. If you're dealing with Lyme or chronic illness, you know healing isn’t a quick fix. Backed by Dr. Bill Rawls and Vital Plan, Restore180 is a 6-month, phased program designed to restore gut health, calm your nervous system, strengthen immunity, and target the microbes driving your symptoms — all while supporting your body’s natural healing process. 👉 Learn more at vitalplan.com/restore180

In the final installment of our 3-part series with integrative physician and Vital Plan founder Dr. Bill Rawls, we go deeper into the real-world challenges- and potential- of healing Lyme and chronic illness.From what's missing in modern healthcare to how the supplement industry often misleads consumers, Dr. Rawls brings both honesty and hope to this wide-ranging conversation. He breaks down how Restore180’s final phase is designed to help the body rebuild, not just recover, and why truly helping patients means addressing root causes—not symptoms.In this episode, Dr. Rawls and Kenzie discuss:What’s missing in the traditional healthcare model for chronic illness (3:50); The history and potential limitations of antibiotics in treating Lyme (14:30); How to be a smart supplement consumer: sourcing, transparency, and safety (22:00); What separates Vital Plan’s approach to herbal medicine (26:00); Dr. Rawls' end goal: a healthcare system that actually helps patients get well (37:00)This episode is made possible by Restore180. If you're dealing with Lyme or chronic illness, you know healing isn’t a quick fix. Backed by Dr. Bill Rawls and Vital Plan, Restore180 is a 6-month, phased program designed to restore gut health, calm your nervous system, strengthen immunity, and target the microbes driving your symptoms — all while supporting your body’s natural healing process. 👉 Learn more at⁠ vitalplan.com/restore180

In Part 2 of our conversation with Dr. Bill Rawls, we explore the herbal protocols and philosophies that shaped Vital Plan and Restore180. Dr. Rawls shares how chronic illness changed the course of his life and how herbs became the foundation of his personal recovery—and his mission to help others. From nervous system regulation to detox strategies and sauna routines, this episode is full of practical, empowering insights for anyone navigating chronic Lyme or other complex illnesses.This episode is made possible by Restore180. If you're dealing with Lyme or chronic illness, you know healing isn’t a quick fix. Backed by Dr. Bill Rawls and Vital Plan, Restore180 is a 6-month, phased program designed to restore gut health, calm your nervous system, strengthen immunity, and target the microbes driving your symptoms — all while supporting your body’s natural healing process. 👉 Learn more at vitalplan.com/restore180

In Episode 14 of Lyme+, we kick off a powerful three-part series with Dr. Bill Rawls—renowned integrative physician, bestselling author, and founder of Vital Plan. Dr. Rawls opens up about his personal journey from chronic illness to recovery and the pivotal shift that led him to embrace herbal therapies and holistic healing for Lyme and tick-borne diseases.In this episode, Dr. Rawls and Kenzie explore:His passion for surfing and kite surfing (0:14)How Lyme microbes operate in the body and why they’re so disruptive (19:00)The potential of chronic Lyme to unlock insights into all chronic illness (21:00)Why Lyme research remains dramatically underfunded (26:00)What needs to change to better support doctors treating Lyme patients (26:55)Kenzie’s personal advice for those in the trenches (32:30)An introduction to Vital Plan and its role in Dr. Rawls’ healing approach (38:30)His "recipe for health"—the core elements that helped him truly recover (46:20)This episode is packed with hope, science, and practical guidance for anyone on the path to wellness. This episode is made possible by Restore180. If you're dealing with Lyme or chronic illness, you know healing isn’t a quick fix. Backed by Dr. Bill Rawls and Vital Plan, Restore180 is a 6-month, phased program designed to restore gut health, calm your nervous system, strengthen immunity, and target the microbes driving your symptoms — all while supporting your body’s natural healing process. 👉 Learn more at ⁠vitalplan.com/restore180⁠

Kristen Harris has a big job to do... At the Global Lyme Alliance, the focus is driving research and investing in and guiding our grantees in whatever capacity we are able. But so much of the work is informed and inspired by the patient community. To wit, GLA offers a suite of patient focused services, including a peer-to-peer program in which mentors and mentees are matched. Kristen Harris spearheads this bedrock program. She is joined by Arianna Cavallino is a PCN and success story from this mentorship program. Arianna and Kristen both share their backstory, their "welcome to Lyme" moments, and the work that they do. If you are interested in participating in this vital program as a mentor, or are seeking guidance and support as a mentee, you can learn more and apply here: https://peertopeer.globallymealliance.org/

Dr. Keith Berkowitz joins Kenzie and Dan for a deep dive into the overlapping worlds of chronic Lyme and Long COVID. In this episode, they explore how fasting, glucose regulation, mitochondrial support, and cortisol management play roles in chronic illness recovery. Dr. Berkowitz also breaks down the MTHFR mutation, MCAS, and the importance of being your own health advocate. From misunderstood inflammation markers to personalized treatment approaches, this conversation sheds light on the complexities of post-infectious disease care and the need for individualized healing paths.The deck, "How to Approach Long Covid and Vaccine Injured Patients" can be found here: https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/11U7ZxgotsHviIbE83Br_Wn3EXM4xG4oqDr. Keith Berkowtiz can be found at the Center for Balanced Health in NYC: www.centerforbalancedhealth.com To learn more about his practice, reach out to Center for Balanced Health @ 212-459-1700 or [email protected]

GLA CSO Dr. Armin Alaedini is the next guest on the Lyme+ Podcast. He is joined by co-hosts Kenzie and Dan on this conversation where they dive into the out-of-the-box process and approach to research and grants approval at GLA. Learn how GLA research is shaping the landscape of Lyme and tickborne disease research, and how GLA's newly tenured CSO plans to man the helm. Visit gla.org to learn more about Dr. Alaedini

In this episode of the Lyme+ Podcast, hosts Kenzie Vath and Dan Wagner sit down with artist and casting director Jon James to explore his intense journey with Lyme disease. Jon shares the emotional and physical toll Lyme has taken on his life, including severe isolation, weight loss, and misdiagnoses that left him in and out of the hospital. He opens up about his struggle to maintain his career in fashion and art while navigating extreme fatigue, depression, and memory loss. Jon’s story highlights the complexities of Lyme treatment, from doubts about his diagnosis to breakthroughs with antibiotics that sparked a return to painting. Alongside his insights on resilience and healing, Jon touches on how his dogs have been a source of comfort and strength during his hardest moments. Tune in for a raw and inspiring discussion about overcoming adversity and rediscovering creativity. Jon can be found at @jonjamesstudio & @jonjamescasting

Co-hosts Kenzie and Dan are joined by Dr. Christina Burns, a doctor of eastern medicine, herbalist, and a lifestyle coach. Dr. Christina has been treating Lyme patients since her two year old son was infected, the same week her husband was also infected. Antibiotics worked well for her husband, but her son became chronically ill. After taking him to every conventional and holistic Lyme specialist, nothing helped. Dr Christina kept trying different angles with Chinese herbal medicine to ultimately help him recover, and has gone on to help many others since. Learn the tricks of her trade when it comes to Chinese medicine and treating Lyme disease, and a full discussion around healthy living. To learn more about Dr. Christina's practice, you can find her here and on instagram here: @drchristinaburns @naturna_life

It's the top of the new year, and it's time to set the record straight. Co-hosts Kenzie Vath and Dan Wagner sit for a one-on-one and discuss their shared health journeys, their "welcome to Lyme" experience, favorite therapies, diets, hopes, aspirations, and so much more.

Co-host Dan Wagner sits down with the founder of Foundations Wellness, Theresa Haselmayer, R.N., to discuss her journey from patient to healer. With over 33 years of varied clinical experience, Theresa trained for 4 years at the Uprooting Lyme Clinic in Hudson Valley NY, a hotbed of Lyme Disease. She is currently one of dozens of highly knowledgeable certified Uprooting Lyme practitioners nationwide. Theresa is also a member of ILADS, the International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society, as well as ISEAI – The International Society of Environmentally Acquired Illness. From the arrows in her quiver as a holistic practitioner, to her story of healing, Theresa story is inspiring, and full of great information.

As a young adult,  just hitting the high note of your career, being sidelined by the symptoms of Lyme and co-infections can be devastating.  Meet JUJ Seeley. She and her best friend, music partner, and health advocate- Kiana Tebyani, compose the up-and-coming electronic/ dance tandem Z3LLA Music. Today Z3LLA is scaling up the billboard music charts at breakneck speed, delivering their unique brand of energy and feeling to the house music scene; a genre often dominated by legendary male artists, JUJ and Kiana are poised to disrupt the party.  In the face of thrilling success and the fruition of years of hard work, JUJ is confronted by the challenges of chronic Lyme disease and co-infections, namely Bartonella. Every single day, JUJ and Kiana work overtime to support JUJ’s health, all while pouring their hearts into their music, and striving to live up to the monumental opportunity before them. Their shared journey has only deepened their gratitude, friendship and commitment to their art.

Co-Host Kenzie Vath joins Dr. Charles Chiu, a Scientific Advisory Board Member at GLA. Dr. Chiu leads a fascinating conversation that weaves through the landscape of Lyme diagnostics, and some of the fascinating work on metagenomics coming out of Dr. Chiu's lab. Dr. Chiu is a Professor of Laboratory Medicine and Medicine Divergent of Infectious Disease at the University of California San Fransisco and Director of UCSF Clinical Microbiology Laboratory. Dr. Chiu currently leads a transitional research laboratory focused on the development and clinical validation of metagenomic next generation sequencing for diagnostics of infection, outbreak investigation, and pathogen discovery.

On this episode, Kenzie sits down with none other than Lindsay Keys, filmmaker, photographer, writer and co-director of The Quiet Epidemic. The grit, perseverance, and journey it took to bring this story to life is an awe-inspiring conversation, and one we are so excited to share with you.The Quiet Epidemic has been showcased at over 20 film festivals and gained national attention, including mentions by celebrities and features on PBS and TIME. Lindsay is now co-leading an impact campaign to use the film to advocate for Lyme disease awareness and policy change, including a congressional hearing on health agency negligence.

In the 3rd episode of Lyme+, Kenzie sits down with the incomparable Jody Hudson of the Alex Hudson Foundation. Jody shares her incredibly powerful story of a mother's love for her child, and the inspired action that ultimately came from the tragic passing of her daughter, Alex. This is a story of courage, loss, and faith, and we sincerely hope you are as moved as we are. Learn more about the Alex Hudson Foundation ⁠here

In this episode of the Lyme+ Podcast, Kenzie sits with co-founder and Executive Director of the Lymelight Foundation to discuss congenital Lyme disease. From mother to mother, what do you need to know? We dive in to Phyllis' very own story, from her experience pregnant with Lyme, to her establishment of the LymeLight foundation: a nonprofit whose mission is to advance awareness and provide grants for children and young adults to pursue Lyme disease treatment. Learn more about the Lymelight Foundation here

Welcome to the Lyme+ Podcast with hosts Kenzie Vath and Dan Wagner. Join us as we embark on a journey through the world of Lyme disease, a tapestry of patient stories, expertise, and the latest research around the enigma of Lyme disease. In our pilot episode, we discuss the organization behind Lyme+: Global Lyme Alliance, and chat with its CEO, Laura McNeill. Our discussion explores the current landscape of research, and GLA's efforts to redefine patient support through community engagement.