Episodes

  • What Every Patient Needs to Know About Cancer Detection - with Dr. Chadi Nabhan

    What Every Patient Needs to Know About Cancer Detection - with Dr. Chadi Nabhan
    Nov 9 2024

    Can a simple ultrasound save your life when mammograms miss the mark? Should you get a colonoscopy every year, or is that too extreme? In my latest interview with distinguished hematologist-oncologist Dr. Chadi Nabhan, author of over 300 medical articles and abstracts, we dive deep into the complex world of cancer screening, prevention, and treatment.

    "Cancer is not one disease," Dr. Nabhan emphasizes. "Many cancers are curable, while some are not. They're not equal, and we can't treat them all the same way."In this episode Dr. Miller engages with Dr. Chadi Nabhan, a distinguished hematologist and oncologist, discussing the complexities of cancer, the importance of early detection, and the nuances of patient communication. Dr. Nabhan emphasizes that cancer is not a singular disease but a collection of various conditions, each requiring tailored approaches to treatment and screening. The conversation also highlights personal stories related to cancer experiences, advocating for proactive communication between patients and healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive care.

    In this conversation, Dr. Chadi Nabhan discusses various aspects of cancer, focusing on prostate cancer, melanoma, and the importance of screening and mental health in cancer treatment. He emphasizes the need for personalized patient care, the complexities of cancer screening, and the emotional journey patients undergo. The discussion also highlights the role of exercise in managing cancer-related fatigue and the importance of regular skin examinations for early detection of skin cancers.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Mind, Body, Health and Politics

    02:19 Understanding Cancer: A Comprehensive Overview

    05:09 The Importance of Early Detection and Screening

    13:23 Personal Stories: Real-Life Experiences with Cancer

    20:51 Navigating Doctor-Patient Communication

    27:00 Prostate Health: Understanding Risks and Treatments

    36:41 Prostate Cancer Debate: Understanding Gleason 6

    39:23 Symptoms and Screening for Prostate Cancer

    40:47 The Trade-offs of Prostate Cancer Screening

    44:09 Testosterone and Prostate Cancer: A Controversial Discussion

    51:50 Melanoma: Personal Stories and Early Detection

    54:29 Skin Cancer: Importance of Regular Skin Exams

    01:01:41 The Emotional Journey of Cancer Treatment

    01:06:16 Exercise as a Remedy for Cancer Fatigue



    This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe
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    1 hr and 6 mins
  • From Stock Broker to Wellness Influencer

    From Stock Broker to Wellness Influencer
    Oct 24 2024

    When I first connected with Ebru Şinik (@ebrusinik) on Instagram, something special resonated. Here was someone halfway across the world speaking the same language of health, persistence, and joy that I've championed for decades. Through her posts and our growing digital friendship, I witnessed her remarkable ability to beam light and positivity while delivering serious, science-based wellness education to thousands.

    Our paths seemed destined to cross.

    In our recent conversation I shared with her how my grandmother had lived in Istanbul in 1908, speaking Turkish with such fluency that decades later she could still converse with Turkish visitors.

    Now, Ebru is transforming wellness education in her beloved Istanbul through an inspiring blend of modern science and ancient wisdom.

    Twenty years ago, Ebru was a successful stock broker battling chronic health issues. Today, she's a leading voice in preventive medicine, training the next generation of wellness practitioners and transforming corporate culture across Turkey. Her journey offers valuable lessons for anyone seeking to improve their health and find their true calling.

    Follow Ebru Şinik (@ebrusinik) on Instagram

    In our wide-ranging discussion, Ebru shares:

    How daily meditation and breathing practices transformed her health when conventional approaches failed

    The science-based morning routine that keeps her vibrant at 51

    Her work bringing wellness programs to major companies like Microsoft, Apple, and Google

    The importance of treating our bodies as our "only asset" in this world



    This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe
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    1 hr and 11 mins
  • Psychedelic Medicine's Delicate Balance

    Psychedelic Medicine's Delicate Balance
    Oct 8 2024

    In this episode, we dive deep into the world of psychedelic science with Dr. David Nichols, one of the foremost experts in the field. Dr. Nichols shares his insights on the current state of LSD research, the challenges faced by researchers, and the potential of psychedelics in treating various mental health conditions. We also discuss the recent FDA decision on MDMA and the future of psychedelic medicine.

    Dr. David E. Nichols is a Distinguished Professor Emeritus at Purdue University and a pioneer in psychedelic research. With over five decades of experience, he offers a unique perspective on the past, present, and future of psychedelic science.

    Chapters:

    00:00 Introduction to Psychedelic Science 02:03 The Current State of LSD Research 06:12 Challenges in LSD Research 10:13 Comparing LSD and Psilocybin 14:02 Therapeutic Uses of Psychedelics 16:45 Adverse Effects of Psychedelics 20:03 The Role of Set and Setting 25:04 Understanding Paranoia in Psychedelic Experiences 29:59 The Future of Psychedelic Medicine 34:00 FDA Decisions and Political Influences 39:02 The Importance of Therapy in Psychedelic Use 43:04 Closing Thoughts and Optimism for the Future



    This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe
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    44 mins
  • Navigating Boundaries

    Navigating Boundaries
    Sep 24 2024

    In this episode of Mind, Body, Health and Politics, Dr. Richard Miller sits down with Rev. Dr. Adam Robersmith to discuss the fascinating concept of "public intimacy." From clergy to sex workers, actors to activists, we explore how different professions navigate the delicate balance between personal authenticity and professional boundaries. Join us for a thought-provoking conversation that touches on polyamory, religious ostracism, and the importance of being true to oneself.

    Chapters: 0:00 Introduction and Adam's Background 3:42 What is Public Intimacy? 8:15 Boundaries in Different Professions 14:30 Dr. Miller's Anecdotes: Therapy and Hot Springs 21:05 Polyamory and Religious Communities 29:18 The Harm of Ostracism and Hypocrisy 37:50 The Gemstone Metaphor: Facets of Identity 45:23 Advice for Clergy and Public Figures 52:10 Dr. Miller's Social Media Success Story 57:30 Closing Thoughts on Self-Knowledge

    Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insightful conversations on Mind, Body, Health and Politics. Visit our website at mindbodyhealthandpolitics.org for free archives and more resources!



    This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe
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    1 hr and 4 mins
  • Mushroom Magic: Nature's Medicine

    Mushroom Magic: Nature's Medicine
    Sep 17 2024

    From Shiitake to Psilocybe, Mushrooms are Nature's Healing Powerhouses

    I was recently joined by the world-renowned mycologist – my friend – Christopher Hobbs, from his new location in Santa Cruz, California. We discussed the vast potential of mushrooms for healing and wellness.

    Dr. Christopher Hobbs is a fourth generation, internationally known herbalist and mycologist, licensed acupuncturist, herbal clinician, research scientist, consultant to the dietary supplement industry, expert witness, botanist, public speaker, and author of over 20 books and numerous articles with over 40 years of experience.

    He is the author of the recent book Christopher Hobbs’s Medicinal Mushrooms, the Essential Guide, with German and English editions.

    He earned his Ph.D. at UC Berkeley with research and publication in evolutionary biology, biogeography, phylogenetics, the chemistry of plants and fungi, and ethnobotany, and is now faculty at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst

    www.christopherhobbs.com

    https://www.youtube.com/@chrisrhobbs

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Mind, Body, Health, and Politics 00:40 Meet Christopher Hobbs: Mycologist Extraordinaire 01:31 The Health Benefits of Mushrooms 03:30 How to Incorporate Mushrooms into Your Diet 06:08 Growing Your Own Mushrooms 15:39 Mushrooms and Cancer: A Natural Remedy 22:05 Exploring Psychedelic Mushrooms 32:30 MDMA and Psychedelic Therapy 42:50 Healthy Aging with Mushrooms 48:21 Conclusion and Final Thoughts



    This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe
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    49 mins
  • The hidden dangers of long-term psychiatric drugs

    The hidden dangers of long-term psychiatric drugs
    Aug 7 2024
    Dear Friends,With over six decades of experience as a clinical psychologist, I've seen many trends come and go in mental health treatment. But rarely have I encountered information as potentially game-changing as what I'm sharing with you today.In 2010, I interviewed journalist Robert Whitaker about his book Anatomy of an Epidemic on my NPR-affiliated radio show. The revelations in that conversation were so profound that I recently invited him back for an update, 14 years later.This follow-up interview may be the most important broadcast in my 20-year history of hosting this program.Whitaker's research exposes how the pharmaceutical industry has influenced American psychiatry, leading to the widespread prescription of antidepressants (SSRIs) to tens, if not hundreds of millions of people worldwide. He ushers ample data to show that these medications are not only often ineffective but may be making many patients worse.Major media outlets are not covering this story. To me this suggests a concerning alliance between Big Pharma, psychiatry, and the press. I urge you to listen to this interview. After listening, I encourage you to explore Whitaker's website, madinamerica.com, for more in-depth information.I’m not trying to be sensationalistic. My aim is to empower you with knowledge that the mainstream media isn't providing. I believe you deserve to know the full story about treatments that may profoundly impact your well-being.Remember, good health is worth fighting for. Sometimes that fight begins with seeking out uncomfortable truths.Until next time,Dr. Richard Louis MillerP.S. If you find this information valuable, please share it widely. The more people who understand this issue, the better chance we have of creating positive change in our approach to mental health treatment.Mind Body Health & Politics is a reader-supported publication, where I share the tools and insights I've gathered over my 64-year career. To receive my weekly digest, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Links:* Mad in America (Robert Whitaker's website): Mad in America* "Anatomy of an Epidemic" by Robert Whitaker: Amazon* STAR*D Study (mentioned in interview): NIMH STAR*D Study Overview and PubMed STAR*D Study Results* World Health Organization report on mental health treatment: WHO Mental Health Report* United Nations Special Rapporteur on Health report: UN Special Rapporteur on Health* British Medical Journal article on STAR*D study reanalysis: BMJ Open STAR*D Reanalysis* Psychiatric Times article discussing STAR*D reanalysis: Psychiatric Times STAR*D Reanalysis* NIMH study on natural recovery rates from depression: NIMH Study on Depression RecoveryThe Hidden Cost of Normalizing Obesity: A Personal and Professional PerspectiveAs someone who once weighed 300 pounds, I understand the emotional toll of obesity firsthand. However, we must address a concerning trend: the normalization of being overweight in our society.With 72% of Americans now overweight or obese, we're seeing this reflected in media and workplaces. But normalizing a health risk is dangerous.This isn't about shame or blame. It's about recognizing that excess weight compromises our immune system. Every pound of unnecessary fat diverts energy our bodies could use to fight disease and maintain health.We need to have honest conversations about weight and health, balancing compassion with the urgency of addressing this public health crisis. Our immune systems – and our lives – may depend on it.My Books:* Freeing Sexuality: Psychologists, Consent Teachers, Polyamory Experts, and Sex Workers Speak Out* Psychedelic Wisdom: The Astonishing Rewards of Mind-Altering Substances* Psychedelic Medicine: The Healing Powers of LSD, MDMA, Psilocybin, and Ayahuasca* Integral Psychedelic Therapy (co-edited with Jason A. Butler & Genesee Herzberg) This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe
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    56 mins
  • Maddy Dychtwald on Ageless Aging

    Maddy Dychtwald on Ageless Aging
    Jul 24 2024
    Dear Friends,How can we age gracefully in a world that seems intent on making us feel obsolete? This week, I spoke with Maddy Dychtwald, co-founder of Age Wave and author of Ageless Aging: A Woman's Guide to Increasing Healthspan, Brainspan, and Lifespan, about the multifaceted approach to healthy aging.Maddy emphasizes that aging is more than just a number:"There's three different kinds of aging. First there's that chronologic aging... Second is the physiologic or biologic aging. That's how our bodies are aging... But then there's the positive side of aging, which I bet you're experiencing, and that is the psychological or emotional aging."This holistic view resonated deeply with me. As someone who's been around the block a few times (85 years, to be exact), I've learned that maintaining health is about more than just diet and exercise. It's about cultivating a positive attitude, staying socially connected, and finding purpose in our later years.One of Maddy's insights that particularly struck me was about the power of our mindset:"By feeling and thinking and acting more positive about your own aging... it could add up to seven and a half years to your life and... it's not just about lifespan. It's also about healthspan."Imagine that - seven and a half extra years just from changing our attitude! It's a powerful reminder that our thoughts shape our reality, even when it comes to aging.But it's not all in our heads. Maddy also shared practical advice on everything from exercise to hormone replacement therapy. For instance, did you know that we start losing muscle mass as early as our late thirties? That's why Maddy suggests:"Strengthening muscle... getting out those stretch bands, picking up those weights a couple, three, four times a week. It's a really good move."As someone who lifts weights four times a week and does aerobics six or seven times a week, I couldn't agree more. Remember, friends: it's never too late to start investing in your health.Maddy also highlighted the importance of social connections:"Social connections is a viable part of this holistic recipe for ageless aging... the science points directly to the fact that low social interaction is the equivalent of smoking 15 cigarettes a day."This aligns with what I've always believed - that we humans are tribal animals, meant to live in communities where we sustain one another.I encourage you to follow Maddy on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok for more insights on aging gracefully. Her wisdom is truly ageless.Remember, good health is worth fighting for, and it's essential for life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.Golden light,Dr. Richard Louis MillerMind Body Health & Politics is a reader-supported publication, where I share the tools and insights I've gathered over my 64-year career. To receive my weekly digest, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Links:* Maddy Dychtwald's Website* Age Wave Website* Ageless Aging: A Woman's Guide to Increasing Healthspan, Brainspan, and Lifespan (Amazon link)The Homeless Dilemma: What Would You Do?I want to share a personal struggle I face regularly, and I'm curious how you handle it.When I go to the supermarket and there's a homeless person outside, I very often go into a kind of internal conflict. And the conflict is between two voices in my head:One voice says, "Go into the store and buy some food and give it to that person."The other voice says, "Give them the few dollars they're asking for, even though you know there's a good chance that they're going to buy alcohol or drugs with it."There's a part of me that says, you don't give money to a person who's got trouble with alcohol and drugs because they're going to use it for alcohol and drugs. Give them food.But then there's another part that says, the person is so down and out, if you give them money for alcohol or food... Why not let them have a drink or a drug? Maybe it'll make them feel better for a few minutes.This is a tough decision, and I go through it every time. Sometimes I give them a few bucks, and sometimes I go in and buy food.I don't know how you all handle it. You might let me know, or comment on Instagram.My Books:* Freeing Sexuality: Psychologists, Consent Teachers, Polyamory Experts, and Sex Workers Speak Out* Psychedelic Wisdom: The Astonishing Rewards of Mind-Altering Substances* Psychedelic Medicine: The Healing Powers of LSD, MDMA, Psilocybin, and Ayahuasca* Integral Psychedelic Therapy (co-edited with Jason A. Butler & Genesee Herzberg) This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe
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    1 hr and 4 mins
  • Sasha Cobra on Reconnecting with Our Natural State of Love and Sexuality

    Sasha Cobra on Reconnecting with Our Natural State of Love and Sexuality
    Jul 9 2024
    Dear Friends,For years, I've observed what I call a "post-traumatic sexual stress disorder" gripping our nation. It's not just about sex – it's about the very fabric of our society. We're a culture living on edge, with 70% of us barely making it paycheck to paycheck. This constant stress, this sword of Damocles hanging over our heads, it's more than economic – it's deeply traumatic, and it seeps into every aspect of our lives, including our sexuality.Imagine, for a moment, that the very act of making love could heal not just our bodies, but our minds, our spirits, and even our society. It sounds almost too good to be true, doesn't it? And yet, after my recent conversation with Sasha Cobra, I find myself pondering this possibility.Sasha, a world-renowned teacher and healer featured on Netflix, brings a perspective on sexuality that's at once ancient and revolutionary. As we spoke, I was struck by how her words seemed to peel back layers of cultural conditioning, revealing a truth that's been hiding in plain sight: we are, at our core, sexual beings."Everything in existence makes love to create," Sasha told me. It's a simple statement, but one that carries profound implications. If creation itself is an act of love, then aren't we, as creators in our own right, constantly engaged in this cosmic dance of sexuality?But here's the problem: we've forgotten how to dance.Sasha's work offers a intriguing antidote to this collective trauma. She speaks of lovemaking not as a mere physical act, but as an energetic exchange capable of clearing "all the trauma, the unprocessed feelings, the negating beliefs, everything that is unlike love in the body." It's a powerful idea – that by reconnecting with our fundamental nature as sexual, energetic beings, we might heal not just ourselves, but our relationships and our society.We've become a culture afraid to feel. We run from discomfort, numb ourselves with distractions, and in doing so, cut ourselves off from the very experiences that could heal us. Sasha's work is a call to return to our bodies, to feel deeply, to engage fully with life and with each other.The idea of being so open and vulnerable can be frightening. But Sasha reminded of why I've dedicated my life to this work. Because beneath the fear, beneath the trauma and the stress, there's a fundamental truth: we are beings capable of profound love, connection, and healing.For those intrigued by these ideas, Sasha offers an online membership program called Enrg Tune, focused on healing and transformation through energetic practices. It's an opportunity to explore this realm of conscious sexuality in a guided, supportive environment.As always, I encourage you to approach these concepts with both an open mind and a critical eye. The intersection of sexuality, energy, and healing is complex and deeply personal. What resonates for one may not for another, and that's perfectly okay.I'd love to hear your thoughts. Watch and comment on the video:How do you see the role of energy and conscious sexuality in your own life? In our society? Are we ready, do you think, to reclaim this fundamental aspect of our nature?Golden light,Dr. Richard Louis MillerMind Body Health & Politics is a reader-supported publication, where I share the tools and insights I've gathered over my 64-year career. To receive my weekly digest, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Links:* Enrg Tune - Sasha’s online membership program for healing, growth and transformation. * Seed of Transformation - 3 day intensive in Tulum, Mexico, exploring the way we relate to ourselves, to others and to sexual energy. * Getting Intimate - a free video series - 20+ hours of intimate conversations that bring awareness, understanding and compassion to life's struggles and challenges. My Books:* Freeing Sexuality: Psychologists, Consent Teachers, Polyamory Experts, and Sex Workers Speak Out* Psychedelic Wisdom: The Astonishing Rewards of Mind-Altering Substances* Psychedelic Medicine: The Healing Powers of LSD, MDMA, Psilocybin, and Ayahuasca* Integral Psychedelic Therapy (co-edited with Jason A. Butler & Genesee Herzberg) This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe
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    50 mins