Episodes

  • 28: Why Human Behaviour Is the Key to Solving the Environmental Crisis With Dr. Brock Bergseth

    28: Why Human Behaviour Is the Key to Solving the Environmental Crisis With Dr. Brock Bergseth
    Jan 23 2026

    Episode Description

    In this episode, Conservation Psychologist and Marine Biologist, Dr. Brock Bergseth explores how human behaviour — not just environmental science — sits at the heart of today’s ecological challenges. Dr. Brock breaks down how social norms influence science and subconscious decision-making shape everything from illegal fishing and poaching to everyday consumer habits, and why understanding people is key to protecting the planet. We discuss how tools borrowed from criminology, behavioural economics, and advertising can be used to shift behaviour toward conservation, the role of cultural norms in shaping compliance, and why modern life has disconnected us from nature in ways that impact both planetary health and mental health. Through real-world research, compelling stories, and a hopeful look at social tipping points, this conversation highlights how small individual actions can scale into meaningful collective change.

    Key Themes & Takeaways
    • Human Behaviour & Conservation Why the environmental crisis is driven as much by human psychology and social behaviour as by science or policy.
    • Social Norms, Conformity & Group Influence How humans are wired to follow the crowd — and how this shapes everyday environmental decisions.
    • Behavioural Science as a Tool for Change How insights from psychology, behavioural economics, and advertising can encourage pro-environmental behaviour at scale.
    • Culture & Environmental Action Why different cultures respond differently to rules, norms, and conservation strategies.
    • Social Tipping Points & Collective Momentum How small behavioural shifts can trigger rapid, large-scale change once they become socially normal.
    • Individual Actions & Ripple Effects Why personal choices matter more than we realise by influencing others around us.
    • Hope, Resilience & Real-World Success Stories What past environmental wins reveal about humanity’s ability to adapt and reverse damage.

    Timestamps

    00:00 — Intro

    00:58 — What Is a Conservation Psychologist?

    1:43 — Why Study Criminology to Protect the Environment?

    4:50 — How Do You Change Human Behaviour for Environmental Action?

    11:06 — Do People Behave Differently Across Cultures?

    13:52 — Applying Behavioural Science to Ocean Conservation

    18:32 — Are Humans Hardwired to Follow the Crowd?

    19:01 — Is Human Conformity Driving the Environmental Crisis?

    22:21 — How Do We Get People to Care About the Planet?

    24:05 — What Actually Motivates Environmental Action?

    26:36 — Do Small Individual Actions Really Matter?

    29:31 — How to Connect With Nature Without Living Near It

    34:55 — How Nature Improves Mental Health and Wellbeing

    39:07 — Why Your Actions Influence Other People

    42:31 — Real Examples of Environmental Change That Give Hope

    48:39 — How to Stay Hopeful While Working on Climate Change

    55:03 — Final Thoughts & Outro

    Connect with Dr. Brock Bergseth
    • Website: www.brockbergseth.com
    • Instagram: @doc.brock_
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brock-bergseth-12a07131/

    Connect with Me

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholesome_practice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100049758914001 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PeopleAndPlanetPodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alya-alhamad Website: https://alyaalhamad.com/

    Disclaimer

    This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not replace the advice of your doctor or physician. Always consult a medical professional before making changes to your diet, lifestyle, or medication protocol.
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    56 mins
  • 27: How Ecological Medicine Can Help Us Heal in A Modern Toxic World with Dr. Jenny Goodman

    27: How Ecological Medicine Can Help Us Heal in A Modern Toxic World with Dr. Jenny Goodman
    Nov 23 2025
    Episode Description In this episode, Dr. Jenny Goodman — physician, author, and Ecological Medicine doctor — joins us to unpack the deep connection between environmental toxins, chronic illness, fertility, and mental health. Drawing on decades of clinical experience, Dr. Goodman explains how everyday exposure to chemicals found in our food, homes, and products contributes to fatigue, hormonal imbalances, and disease — and, most importantly, explains what we can do about it. We explore practical, evidence-based ways to reduce our toxic load, from simple dietary shifts and detox practices to choosing safe mattresses, beauty products, and cleaning supplies. Dr. Goodman also sheds light on the impact of plastics, glyphosate, and radiation on reproductive health, and why preconception detox may be the key to protecting future generations. You’ll hear guidance for pregnant women, insight into the link between pollution and mental health, and Dr. Goodman’s empowering reminder that healing doesn’t require perfection — just small, consistent changes. Whether you’re just starting your wellness journey or looking to take your health to the next level, this episode is packed with practical wisdom and hope for a healthier body and planet. Key Themes & Takeaways Ecological Medicine & Root-Cause Healing Understanding the principles of ecological medicine — how it unites nutrition, detoxification, and environmental awareness to restore whole-body health.Environmental Toxins & Modern Disease How chemicals, plastics, pesticides, and pollutants contribute to fatigue, hormonal disruption, and chronic illness.Nutrition & The Missing Minerals Why depleted soil leads to nutrient deficiencies — and how this impacts immune function, fertility, and mental health.Gut-Brain Axis & Mental Health The scientific link between gut bacteria and mood disorders like depression and anxiety. How stress and the vagus nerve affect digestion, inflammation, and overall well-being.Toxins, Fertility & Future Generations How plastics, glyphosate, and heavy metals impact sperm, egg quality, and fetal development.Detoxing Your Home & Environment Practical, low-cost swaps for safer cleaning products, beauty routines, and non-toxic bedding.Pollution, Obesity & the Brain The overlooked role of toxins in weight gain, metabolic issues, and cognitive decline. How environmental pollution affects behavior, attention, and emotional health.Hope, Healing & Practical Change Why perfection isn’t required to heal — small, consistent changes add up. How reconnecting with nature and community restores balance to both body and planet. Timestamps 00:00 – Intro02:10 – What is Ecological Medicine?08:30 –Connecting The Gut and The Brain15:13 – Studying Ecological Medicine17:20 – Environmental Toxins and Chronic Illness20:30 – Heavy Metal Toxicity21:00 – How Antibiotics Impact The Mitochondria and the Gut Microbiome22:50 – Overview of Human Health Connected to Planetary Health27:50 – Farming is a Fundamental Activity For Human And Planetary Health33:00 – Different Ways For Detoxing The Body44:30 – The Role of Iodine and Breast Cancer Prevention46:00 – How Plastics Affect Hormones and the Brain47:00 – Detoxing Your Home: Bedroom, Bathroom, and Kitchen51:00 – Safer Alternatives for Cosmetics and Cleaning Products55:40 – EMF Exposure and Protecting Your Home Environment1:00:15 – Pollution, Mental Health, and Cognitive Decline1:01:35 – The Link Between Obesity, Toxins, and the Brain1:03:30 – Fertility, Glyphosate, and Protecting Future Generations1:06:10 – Preconception Detox and Male Fertility1:09:35 – Safe Detoxing During Pregnancy1:12:00 – Final Takeaways: Healing, Hope, and Grounding with Nature1:12:45 – Outro Connect with Dr. Jenny Goodman Website: https://drjennygoodman.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_jenny_goodman/?hl=enHer books: Staying Alive in Toxic Times and Getting Healthy in Toxic Times Books Mentioned in the Episode: How to Give Up Plastic How to Save the World for FreeToxic Legacy Connect with Me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholesome_practice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100049758914001 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PeopleAndPlanetPodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alya-alhamad Website: https://alyaalhamad.com/ Disclaimer This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not replace the advice of your doctor or physician. Always consult a medical professional before making changes to your diet, lifestyle, or medication protocol.
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    1 hr and 13 mins
  • 26: Peptides, Bioregulators & Beyond: Healing, Longevity, and Brain Health with Dean Henry

    26: Peptides, Bioregulators & Beyond: Healing, Longevity, and Brain Health with Dean Henry
    Sep 1 2025

    Episode Description In this episode, peptide researcher and specialist Dean Henry dives into the fascinating and fast-growing world of peptides and bioregulators. Dean explains how these compounds are being used to support thyroid health, reduce inflammation, and aid in chronic conditions like endometriosis and autoimmune diseases. He also shares insights into groundbreaking applications for brain health, including cognitive enhancement and protocols for Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

    We discuss the rise of GLP-1 peptides for obesity and weight loss, why microdosing may be the safest and most effective approach, and how to avoid common misconceptions about these compounds. From mitochondrial support with SS-31 to recovery peptides like BPC-157, Dean provides both a scientific and practical lens on how these therapies can enhance longevity and well-being.

    This conversation is packed with both cutting-edge science and down-to-earth wisdom, giving listeners a clear understanding of where peptides could fit into the bigger picture of their health optimization routine.

    Key Themes & Takeaways

    Peptides & Bioregulators Explained

    • What they are, how they work, and why they’re becoming such an important tool in modern medicine.

    Thyroid Health & Autoimmune Conditions

    • How bioregulators may help reduce reliance on thyroid medication.
    • The potential role of LDN in managing conditions like endometriosis.

    Brain Health & Cognitive Optimization

    • Dean’s personal experience with cognitive peptides like Cerebrolysin, C-Max, and Selank.
    • Preventative protocols for Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

    GLP-1 Peptides & Obesity

    • Microdosing vs standard dosing.
    • The real mechanism: reducing cravings and food noise, not just suppressing appetite.
    • Why lifestyle changes are still essential.

    Performance, Recovery & Longevity

    • Key peptides for healing and recovery: BPC-157, SS-31, and NAD+.
    • The importance of mitochondrial health for energy and aging.

    The Future of Peptides

    • The compounds Dean is most excited about and why prevention is just as important as treatment.

    Timestamps

    00:00 Intro to Episode & Dean Henry 03:15 What are peptides and bioregulators? 08:40 Supporting thyroid health with bioregulators 14:05 Endometriosis, autoimmune conditions & the role of LDN 20:45 Peptides for brain health, Alzheimer’s & Parkinson’s 28:30 Dean’s personal cognitive peptide experiences (Cerebrolysin, C-Max, Selank) 36:55 GLP-1 peptides for obesity, cravings & misconceptions 44:20 Performance and recovery peptides (BPC-157, SS-31, NAD+) 52:10 The future of peptides & what excites Dean most 57:45 Outro, resources & where to connect with Dean

    Resources Mentioned Throughout the Episode

    Central Peptide Hub: https://peptidesociety.org

    DN Lab Research: dnlabresearch.com

    UAE Peptides website: uaepeptidesresearch.com

    UAE Peptides Instagram: @uaepeptides

    Facebook Groups:

    • https://www.facebook.com/groups/112973189333911/
    • https://www.facebook.com/groups/biohackingsuperhumanperformance/

    Connect with Dean

    Instagram: @dean.e.henry

    Connect with me

    Instagram: @wholesome_practice

    TikTok: @wholesome_planet Facebook: Wholesome Practice YouTube: People and Planet Podcast LinkedIn: Alya Alhamad Website: alyaalhamad.com

    Disclaimer

    This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not replace the advice of your doctor or physician. Always consult a medical professional before making changes to your diet, lifestyle, or medication protocol.
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    1 hr and 2 mins
  • 25: Understanding Dysfunction Within The Family Unit with Aspen Robinson

    25: Understanding Dysfunction Within The Family Unit with Aspen Robinson
    Jul 31 2025

    In this episode, Trauma-Informed Coach, Aspen Robinson, joins us to explore the lasting effects of trauma from dysfunctional relationships within the family unit and how it continues to shape our adult lives. With over a decade of experience in the field and profound expertise in family dynamics, Aspen works specifically with adults who still carry the weight of childhood trauma, helping them untangle long-standing emotional patterns and build healthier relationships with themselves and others.

    Aspen is currently studying to become a Somatic Therapy Practitioner, which allows her to address trauma that is stored in the body. In this episode, she breaks down what trauma really is, what defines a dysfunctional family, and how unhealed wounds are passed down across generations.

    We also dive into how roles like the scapegoat or parentified child can shape someone's sense of self, how cultural beliefs like "boys don’t cry" can deeply impact emotional development, and how parents influence our ability to regulate emotions long after childhood ends. Aspen also shares compassionate guidance on moving through trauma, distinguishing micro vs. macro traumas, and how forgiveness can be part of a healing journey without dismissing the depth of harm experienced.

    Whether you’re actively healing or just beginning to ask questions, this episode offers profound insight, clarity, and encouragement for your path forward.

    Timestamps

    00:00 – Intro 02:22 – Defining Trauma 04:25 – Defining a Dysfunctional Family 08:50 – Passing on Trauma 13:20 – The Impacts of Generational Trauma 18:20 – The Parentified Child 27:25 – The Competitive Parent 29:30 – How to Deal with Fawning 31:20 – Fathers and Sons 36:05 – Nervous System Needs of Young Sons vs. Daughters 38:50 – The Impact of "Boys Don’t Cry" 43:25 – The Scapegoat as an Adult 48:35 – The Impact of Really Strict Parents 52:30 – Children Adopting Parent Archetypes 1:02:51 – The Role of the Father and Mother in Emotion Regulation 1:05:12 – Microtraumas vs. Macrotraumas 1:10:29 – Common Mistakes in Dealing with Trauma 1:13:05 – Forgiveness of Trauma

    Connect with Aspen Robinson

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/augustknoxcoaching/ Website: https://augustknoxcoaching.com

    Connect with Me

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholesome_practice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100049758914001 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PeopleAndPlanetPodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alya-alhamad Website: https://alyaalhamad.com/

    Disclaimer

    This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not replace the advice of your doctor or physician. Always consult a medical professional before making changes to your diet, lifestyle, or medication protocol.
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    1 hr and 21 mins
  • 24: Understanding Our Emotions and Expanding Emotional Intelligence with Dr. Thoraiya Kanafani

    24: Understanding Our Emotions and Expanding Emotional Intelligence with Dr. Thoraiya Kanafani
    Jun 12 2025
    In this episode, I speak with Dr. Thoraiya Kanafani about emotions and our nervous system. Dr. Thoraiya is a Clinical Psychologist with 20+ years of experience in educational and counseling psychology who mainly specializes in working with young adults, ages 18-45. Her main areas of focus include personality disorders, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, addictions, learning disabilities, and trauma. Dr. Thoraiya has taught in 7 universities and is currently working for the Human Relations Institute & Clinics in Dubai. Hope you enjoy! Key Themes & Takeaways: Unpacking Emotions We begin by discussing emotions as signals and how our bodies use them to inform us of what is happening within us as humans. We transition from there into a discussion on how to assess and respond to our emotions when they arise. We finish by discussing the difference between our thoughts and our emotions. Managing Emotions as They Arise We start off by discussing how to identify emotions that are not helpful or serving us. We then move to talking about the difference between hypo- and hyperarousal. We close this segment by touching on the importance of calming your body when you enter a state of hyperarousal to return back to your window of tolerance. Regulation and Resilience in the Modern World We kick off this portion of the episode by discussing how dysregulation plays a part in throwing off your emotions, and the unique challenges of maintaining regulated emotions in 2025.We then transition to talking about building resilience and how to push yourself outside of your comfort zone safely to build long-term resilience. Emotional Intelligence We wrap up the episode by talking about Emotional Intelligence (EQ) and how to build high EQ. We move to talking about conflict and conflict resolution and its impact on the brain. Specifically, we touch on how to deal with those who have lower EQ. Timestamps 00:00 Intro 01:45 Get to Know Dr. Thoraiya 03:15 What is an Emotion? 05:47 The Relationship Between our Thoughts and our Emotions 12:40 How to Manage Emotions That Aren’t Serving 19:00 Disregulation in the Modern World 26:45 Building Resilience 32:25 Discomfort’s Relationship to Personal Growth 39:30 What is Emotional Intelligence? 46:00 Conflict Resolution and How it Impacts the Brain 48:45 Emotional Literacy 54:25 Advice for Dealing with People with Low EQ 57:30 Nuggets of Wisdom and Resources for Expanding Emotional Intelligence Book Mentioned by Dr. Thoraiya Widen the Window by Elizabeth A. Stanley: Connect with Dr. Thoraiya Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.thoraiya/?hl=enWebsite: https://www.hricdubai.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.thoraiyaHRIC IG: https://www.instagram.com/hricdubai/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-thoraiya-kanafani-2bb76210/?originalSubdomain=ae Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholesome_practice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100049758914001 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PeopleAndPlanetPodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alya-alhamad Website: https://alyaalhamad.com/ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not replace the advice of your doctor or physician. Always consult a medical professional before making changes to your diet, lifestyle, or medication protocol.
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    1 hr and 1 min
  • 23: We Talk Calories, Weight Loss, Body Composition Goals and More With Lulu Alarmali

    23: We Talk Calories, Weight Loss, Body Composition Goals and More With Lulu Alarmali
    May 30 2025

    Episode Description

    In this episode, I welcome back Lulu Alarmali, as we discuss weight management, metabolic health, blood sugar, and how to best maximize progress for those on a body composition journey. In this episode, Lulu draws on her extensive knowledge in neurology, gut health, sports nutrition, immune function, and cardiovascular health. We begin by discussing calories, if they matter, and how to healthily manage a caloric deficit. We then move to touch on the difference between men and women on their respective body composition journeys and finish our discussion talking through the various important elements of maintaining sustained metabolic health. Hope you enjoy!

    Key Themes & Takeaways:

    Exploring Caloric Deficits
    • We begin by having an in-depth discussion the debate of calories, if they count, and the nuances in between.
    • We then transition into how to properly manage a caloric deficit and how to maintain proper mental health while dieting.
    Insulin Resistance and Thyroid Health
    • We discuss the importance of managing insulin resistance and how it affects your body’s metabolism. We also touch on the importance of tracking thyroid health to contribute to positive metabolic health.
    • We then move to talking about the importance of sleep on the body composition journey.
    Promoting Your Own Metabolic Health
    • We begin by touching on the lab tests that Lulu recommends for those interested in dialing in their body composition, including a blood sugar panel, a thyroid panel, and other metabolic profiles.
    • We then transition to discussing the importance of having muscle to contribute to fat loss and overall metabolic health.

    Unpacking Metabolisms
    • We wrap up the episode by discussing the idea of “fast versus slow” metabolisms and how Lulu believes there is validity to this idea.
    • We finish by touching on the importance of incorporating movement into your day-to-day life outside of traditional exercise.

    Timestamps

    • 00:00 Intro to Lulu Alarmali
    • 02:30 Do Calories Matter?
    • 06:15 Managing a Calorie Deficit in a Healthy Way
    • 10:50 The Mental Health Side of Dieting
    • 14:00 Eating to Boost Your Metabolism and Thyroid Health
    • 19:30 Proper Eating to Build Muscle
    • 23:35 Eating to Promote Weight Loss
    • 25:00 Metabolic Differences Between Men and Women
    • 30:00 Insulin Resistance
    • 33:30 The Importance of Sleep on the Body Composition Journey
    • 37:17 Supplements for Fat Loss
    • 39:30 Recommended Lab Tests for Body Composition
    • 43:13 The Importance of Muscle for Fat Loss and Metabolic Health
    • 46:50 Unpacking “Fast vs. Slow” Metabolisms
    • 50:15 The Importance of Movement Outside of Traditional Exercise

    Connect with Lulu

    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefunctionalnutritionist/?hl=en
    • Website: https://www.thefunctionalnutritionistkw.com/

    Connect with me

    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholesome_practice/
    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100049758914001
    • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PeopleAndPlanetPodcast
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alya-alhamad
    • Website: https://alyaalhamad.com/

    Disclaimer:

    This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not replace the advice of your doctor or physician. Always consult a medical professional before making changes to your diet, lifestyle, or medication protocol.
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    59 mins
  • 22: Shift Your Mindset to Become a Powerful Entrepreneur with Alia Khatib

    22: Shift Your Mindset to Become a Powerful Entrepreneur with Alia Khatib
    May 18 2025
    In this episode, Alia Khatib discusses the full scope of what it takes to be a successful entrepreneur, including embracing healthy practices to maintain mental and physical health, tips for those looking to take the leap into business ownership, and how to build a mindset as an entrepreneur that serves your business positively. Alia draws on her extensive experience as an entrepreneur herself, including her tumultuous start to business ownership and how she personally overcame a victim mentality. She discusses the power of both the masculine and feminine energy in business, and how to successfully overcome your inner critic, imposter syndrome, and a scarcity mindset to become a powerful entrepreneur. Finally, she leaves us with multiple resources for those interested in learning more about becoming a powerhouse in the business world. Hope you enjoy! Key Themes & Takeaways: Embracing Fitness & Mental Health as Keys to Success in Entrepreneurship Discussion on the importance of maintaining health, both physical and mental, throughout your entrepreneurship journeyThe need to separate your identity and self worth from the outcomes of your business Overcoming Your Inner Critic & Imposter Syndrome Your inner critic is often incorrect and unhelpful to you as an entrepreneur. Alia discusses how to ensure your inner critic does not hold you back from success. Imposter syndrome stands in the way of success, especially when first beginning on an entrepreneurial journey and can impact many aspects of your business, including pricing. Alia discusses how to tackle the natural obstacle of imposter syndrome. Alia’s Own Journey as an Entrepreneur Alia began her business ownership journey right as citizen’s money was frozen in Lebanon. This initially held Alia back from accessing the money she’d originally set aside to draw from as she began on her entrepreneurial path. Alia discusses overcoming a victim mindset in this situation and how this shift allowed her to eventually flourish. The Power of Manifestation in Business & Embracing a Mindset Shift Alya shares about the power of vision boards and how they assist in fast-tracking your goals in business. Alia & Alya discuss the importance of overcoming a scarcity mindset and how embracing gratitude allows you to take your business to the next level. Alia finishes by discussing the importance of harnessing both the masculine and feminine energy akong your business journey. Timestamps 00:00 Intro to Episode & Alia Khatib 01:40 Advice for Those Beginning as Entrepreneurs 04:55 Overcoming Your Inner Critic 16:45 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Negative Online Influences 23:00 Alia’s Financial Journey as an Entrepreneur 26:00 Traits of Successful Entrepreneurs 33:30 Mindset Around Failure & Losing Money 45:00 The Power of Vision Boards and Manifestation 47:00 Overcoming a Scarcity Mindset and Embracing Gratitude 50:35 The Masculine and Feminine Energy in Business 56:00 Outro, Resources & Where to Connect with Alia Connect with Alia Khatib Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marketingconsultant_alia/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alia-khatib/Website: aliakhatib.com Resources Mentioned Throughout our Episode: Becoming Supernatural by Joe Dispenza You Are The Placebo by Joe Dispenza Gaia (Joe Dispenza) The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel You Are a Badass at Making Money by Jen Sincero The Financial Feminist Podcast Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholesome_practice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100049758914001 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PeopleAndPlanetPodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alya-alhamad Website: https://alyaalhamad.com/ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not replace the advice of your doctor or physician. Always consult a medical professional before making changes to your diet, lifestyle, or medication protocol.
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    59 mins
  • 21: Fibroids 101: What Every Woman Should Know with Dr. Elias Abi Khalil

    21: Fibroids 101: What Every Woman Should Know with Dr. Elias Abi Khalil
    Apr 14 2025
    Episode Description In this important episode, Dr. Elias Abi Khalil brings to light the often-overlooked reality of uterine fibroids. He discusses his personal and professional journey into gynecology, his frustration with how many women suffer silently, and his mission to ensure that patients are seen, heard, and empowered in their health decisions. Dr. Elias demystifies fibroids—from causes and symptoms to treatment options—and emphasizes the importance of education and advocacy in women’s healthcare. He also explains how systemic issues and lack of provider awareness contribute to health inequities, and what needs to change in medical education and care. This conversation is an essential listen for anyone navigating fibroids or supporting someone who is. Key Themes & Takeaways: Menstrual Health Challenges for Women Discussion on the commonality of pelvic pain. Importance of recognizing pelvic pain as not normal is emphasized. Explanation of fibroid development and risk factors. Genetics and environmental factors are highlighted as significant contributors. Understanding Fibroids and Their Impact The symptoms and diagnosis of fibroids are outlined. Heavy periods and pelvic pain are identified as primary symptoms. The impact of fibroids on fertility is explained. Fibroids can hinder implantation and affect pregnancy rates. Interrelationship of Fibroids and Endometriosis A connection between fibroids and endometriosis is discussed. It is emphasized that both conditions must be treated together.Statistics reveal that 20% of women with fibroids also have endometriosis. The importance of treating fibroids, endometriosis, and adenomyosis as a triad is highlighted. The necessity of addressing pelvic pain symptoms is stressed. It is advised that patients should not be treated for just one condition. Treatment Options for Fibroids and Endometriosis Advice is provided regarding treatment for fibroids. Most patients do not require treatment unless symptomatic. Symptoms related to fibroids are discussed, particularly heavy periods. Heavy periods can lead to iron deficiency anemia and require treatment. Medical therapy options for fibroids are outlined. The focus is on controlling symptoms rather than eliminating fibroids. Diet and lifestyle can influence estrogen levels. Proper management can reduce the risk of growths like fibroids and tumors. Awareness of Pelvic Pain and Health Issues Concerns about pelvic pain and its implications are discussed. Women are encouraged to seek help if experiencing severe symptoms. The importance of finding a doctor who listens is emphasized. A long-term care plan for pelvic pain is recommended.Resources for learning about reproductive health are shared. Online and in-person consultation options at Clemenceau Medical Center are mentioned. Timestamps 00:00 Intro & Menstrual Health Challenges for Women 07:18 Understanding Fibroids and Their Impact 13:29 Interrelationship of Fibroids and Endometriosis 18:52 Diagnosis and Treatment of Endometriosis 22:57 Treatment Options for Fibroids and Endometriosis 27:45 Medical Interventions for Menstrual Symptoms 30:23 Uterine Artery Embolization Risks 36:12 Surgical Approaches for Fibroid Recurrence 40:12 Recovery and Natural Treatments Post-Surgery 43:11 Case Study: Successful Robotic Surgery 47:50 Awareness of Pelvic Pain and Health Issues Connect with Dr. Elias Abi Khalil Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dreliasabikhalil/?hl=enWebsite: https://dreliasabikhalil.com/ Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholesome_practice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100049758914001 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PeopleAndPlanetPodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alya-alhamad Website: https://alyaalhamad.com/ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not replace the advice of your doctor or physician. Always consult a medical professional before making changes to your diet, lifestyle, or medication protocol.
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    52 mins