In this episode our guest is Dr. Kirsten K. Shepard – We explore a wide range of topics focused on medical cannabis, CBD products, and their integration into holistic healthcare. Dr. Shepard shares her personal journey in developing CBD-based solutions, beginning with her father's battle against Mesothelioma, and her growing expertise in the endocannabinoid system. The discussion highlights her insights on navigating the complexities of medical information, the impact of cannabis on chiropractic practice, product quality in the CBD industry, and disparities in healthcare access.

Dr. Kirsten K. Shepard is a renowned healthcare provider and entrepreneur, licensed in California and Texas, with over 10 years of private practice experience in Austin, TX, and a satellite location in Killeen. Featured in Austin Fit Magazine as one of the top female providers and awarded Special Congressional Recognition, Dr. Shepard has made significant contributions to the field of medical cannabis.

Dr. Shepard Ahmed’s company, Pain Stopper, is recognized for creating top-tier topical CBD products, inspired by her father’s health journey. Her products are a testament to her commitment to holistic healthcare, integrating science, research, and compassion. In this episode, we also delve into the challenges of regulating cannabis, the importance of product quality in the CBD market, and her advocacy for more equitable healthcare access.

00:00 Introduction

4:06 Navigating Medical Information Overload

6:06 Understanding the Endocannabinoid System

11:49 Experience with Medical Cannabis

17:47 Integrating Cannabis Into Chiropractic Practice

23:06 Cannabis Regulation

26:17 Hemp Products

29:30 CBD Product Quality

35:01 Topical CBD Products

38:59 Critique of Systemic Pain Relief Approaches

44:27 Passion for Sports

48:11 Disparities in Healthcare Access

50:11 Consumer Dependency on Products

56:49 A Unique Approach to Chiropractic Care

1:06:06 The Psoas Muscle

1:16:26 Advice for Aspiring Bodyworkers

1:24:14 Changing Perspectives on Medical Cannabis

In this episode our guest is Dr. Robert Abel, MD – We explore a range of topics centered around eye health and its broader impact on overall well-being. Dr. Abel shares insights into his community eye care initiatives, the rise of youth nearsightedness, and understanding vision beyond the eyes. The discussion highlights the importance of patient stories, the challenges physicians face, the connection between nutrition and eye health, the implications of screen time, eye care practices, restoring eye health through integrative approaches, and the effects of sun exposure on the eyes. Dr. Robert Abel Jr., MD, is a board-certified ophthalmologist with a distinguished career in eye health and integrative care. Earning his medical degree from Jefferson Medical College in 1969, Dr. Abel completed his ophthalmology residency at Mt. Sinai Hospital, New York, and a Cornea Fellowship at the University of Florida. A former Clinical Professor of Ophthalmology at Thomas Jefferson University, he has also served on the staff of Christiana Care Health System. Dr. Abel is renowned for founding eye banks in Delaware and internationally, and he has taught on ocular disease and integrative eye care around the world. With numerous publications and two patents on artificial corneas, Dr. Abel has contributed significantly to corneal transplant research and infectious disease. He authored the well-known book The Eye Care Revolution, which empowers patients to manage common vision problems, and has written additional health books, medical thrillers, and children's books. His humanitarian work includes co-founding Delaware’s Vision to Learn, providing 12,000 children with free eye exams and glasses. Full episodes are available on all podcast platforms. https://nielasher.com/podcast For more information about NAT online courses, please visit https://nielasher.com/

In this episode our guest is Vanessa Mota (Yogithot) - We explore a range of topics centered around yoga and its profound influence on emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being. Vanessa shares insights into the synergy between yoga and pilates, her experiences leading workshops, and the beginnings of her yoga journey. The discussion highlights the deeper dimensions of the practice and addresses common misconceptions. The conversation covers the role of yoga in injury prevention, its benefits, and the power of visualizing progress.

Vanessa grew up as a competitive dancer and has since become a highly respected and renowned yoga instructor. Named ClassPass Best Instructor of the Year in 2022, Vanessa is celebrated for her unique approach to teaching Yoga, Pilates, and a fusion of both disciplines in a distinctive raw environment. Her classes have gained immense popularity, attracting a dedicated following. Vanessa also leads international workshops and teaches highly sought-after weekly classes in Fort Lauderdale, FL, where her passion and expertise continue to inspire students.

00:00 Introduction 01:44 Yoga and Skiing 04:32 Yoga Workshops 06:20 Yoga Journey Beginnings 08:05 Kundalini Yoga 12:05 Competitive Dancing 15:24 Childhood Dreams 21:49 Self-Remembrance in Yoga 26:40 The Depth of Yoga 34:30 Misconceptions about Yoga 38:06 Injuries 42:49 Yoga for Physical Well-being 45:09 Visualizing Progress 48:10 Teaching Yoga & Pilates 57:54 Self-Reflection & Change 1:02:08 Sound Bowl Vibrations 1:03:26 @yogithot

Full episodes are available on all podcast platforms. https://nielasher.com/podcast For more information about NAT online courses, please visit https://nielasher.com/

In this episode our guest is Gordon Wallis - We explore a range of topics centered around Trigger Point Therapy, Chinese Medicine practices and hands-on modalities. Gordon shares insights into the evolution of Chinese medicine, delving into common misconceptions about meridians and the significance of understanding trigger points. The discussion highlights his career evolution and his interpretation of the effectiveness of various hands-on techniques and tools for treating pain.

Gordon Wallis is a seasoned licensed massage therapist with a rich and diverse career spanning several decades. With ten years of experience in a chiropractic clinic, twenty years in the spa industry, and three years collaborating with medical doctors in a pain management clinic, Gordon has honed his expertise across multiple settings. His extensive background has provided him with a deep understanding of various therapeutic modalities.

In addition to his vast experience, Gordon has pioneered a unique and highly effective set of hands-on procedures that "...eliminate myofascial trigger point pain almost instantly—comparable to flipping a light switch." Gordon is poised to make a significant impact on the next generation of therapists.

Full episodes are available on all podcast platforms. https://nielasher.com/podcast For more information about NAT online courses, please visit https://nielasher.com/

00:00 Introduction 02:00 Understanding the Practice 04:16 Misconceptions about Meridians 08:38 Evolution of Chinese Medicine 12:38 Understanding Trigger Points 19:04 Career Evolution and Exposure to Oriental Practices 26:02 Effectiveness of Hands-On Modalities 28:08 Trigger Points Tools 29:07 Long-Term Effectiveness Treatment 35:38 Matrix Therapy 1:02:09 Facing Criticism 1:05:02 Continuous Improvement and Understanding 1:14:51 Treatment Effectiveness 1:21:26 The Simplicity of Treating Pain 1:25:46 Closing Remarks

In this episode our guest is Dr. Kenneth Finn - We discuss the state of medical cannabis today, the positive misperceptions of legalization, and the unspoken truths and side effects associated with cannabis use. Dr. Finn explains issues such as synthetic THC, the lack of medical regulation, and the dangers of contaminated cannabis. We also explore the impact of cannabis regulation in Colorado, the influence of media, the differences between CBD and THC , and the tragic consequences of misinformation. Dr. Finn provides insights into the effects of cannabis on adolescent brain development, product potency, the opioid crisis, and the risks and misperceptions surrounding cannabis.

Dr. Kenneth Finn has been practicing medicine in Colorado Springs since 1994 and serves on the American Board of Pain Medicine Exam Council, Appeals Committee, and Executive Board. He is the President-Elect of the American Board of Pain Medicine. Dr. Finn served on the Colorado Governor's Task Force on Amendment 64, Consumer Safety, and Social Issues Work Group and spent four years on the Colorado Medical Marijuana Scientific Advisory Council. He was an Executive Board member of the El Paso County Medical Society and contributed to developing the position statements on cannabis for both the Colorado Medical Society and the Colorado Pain Society.

Full episodes are available on all podcast platforms. https://nielasher.com/podcast

For more information about NAT online courses, please visit https://nielasher.com/

00:00 Introduction 01:03 Medical Cannabis Today 05:20 Positive Perception and Legalization of Cannabis 06:31 Unspoken Truths and Side Effects 07:34 Synthetic THC 08:37 Lack of Medical Regulation 11:07 Contaminated Cannabis 14:32 Medicine Regulation 15:56 Impact of Cannabis Regulation in Colorado 16:54 Media Influence 18:48: CBD vs THC Product Labeling 22:06 Tragic Consequences 27:58 Impact on Adolescent Brain Development 30:00 Product Potency 34:38 Impact on the Opioid Crisis 40:34 Risks and Misperceptions 47:19 Delta-8 THC and Hemp THC 51:17 Unintended consequences of Cannabis Legalization 57:23 Lack of Education for Doctors 1:10:37 Message to Pot Smokers 1:11:53 Risks of Chronic Use

In this episode our guest is Karen Vizueta - We discuss Pilates principles and application, covering topics such as Pilates movements, breathing approaches, the mind-body connection, muscle activation, and Karen's personal journey with Pilates. We also explore Pilates progressions/regressions, learning and adapting as an instructor, and the benefits of Pilates for men.

Karen Vizueta has been a full-time fitness professional for 23 years. She is revered for making people feel better about their bodies and relieving stress through exercise, creating a fun, positive, and challenging environment. Karen's goal is for her clients to leave with a smile, knowing that happy clients will return and ultimately achieve their desired results. She graduated with honors from the University of Rhode Island and her fitness certifications include STOTT Pilates Mat & Reformer, AFAA Primary Group Exercise, AFAA Step, TRX, BOSU Kids, NASM CPT, Precision Nutrition L1, and Vbarre. Karen is also trained in Balanced Body Jumpboard, Power House Pilates Integrated Tower, and IMX Pilates Mat & Reformer.

Beyond her coaching responsibilities, Karen is a respected voice in wellness, contributing regular articles to the field. Her insights and expertise have been featured on notable platforms like Cosmopolitan.com and Feedspot.com, further solidifying her position as a knowledgeable and influential figure in fitness and health.

Full episodes are available on all podcast platforms. https://nielasher.com/podcast For more information about NAT online courses, please visit https://nielasher.com/

00:00 Introduction 01:34 Pilates Principles 05:51 Breathing and Mind-Body Connection 09:49 indIvidualized Approach to Muscle Activation 11:54 Personal Journey with Pilates 15:14 Pilates Progression 17:59 Learning and Adapting as an Instructor 20:05 Pilates Benefits for Men 26:18 Understanding the Core Muscles 33:46 Pilates and Pregnancy 38:47 Personal Workout Routine 45:07 Transition to Online Teaching 51:26 Different Types of Pilates 1:01:03 Closing Remarks and Summary

In this episode our guest is Dr. Ravi Patel - We discuss the vulnerability of the eyes, covering topics like retinal detachment, cataracts, and glaucoma. Dr. Patel addresses patient anxiety related to eye surgery and significant improvements in surgical techniques. We delve into refractive errors, common eye diseases, and the impact of lifestyle choices on eye health. The discussion includes reversing blindness through technological advancements, the evolution of corneal transplant techniques, and considerations for seeking treatment. We examine the effects of modern technology on eyesight, dangers of eye rubbing, prolonged screen time, and the importance of looking far away to relieve eye strain. Dr. Patel also discusses the impact of contact lenses on eye health and concludes with personal and professional reflections.

Dr. Ravi Patel, MD, is a highly esteemed specialist in cataract, cornea, and laser refractive surgery. With a keen focus on LASIK/PRK laser surgery, advanced cataract surgery techniques, and cornea transplant surgeries such as DMEK and DSAEK, Dr. Patel has dedicated his career to improving vision and eye health. He is also proficient in treating keratoconus, cross-linking, and managing complications from eye surgeries, including Fuchs dystrophy.

Board-certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology, Dr. Patel is affiliated with several prominent hospitals, including Monmouth Medical Center, Hackensack Meridian Health Riverview Medical Center, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, and Wills Eye Hospital. Committed to providing the highest level of specialty eye care, Dr. Patel integrates the latest technology and innovative surgical techniques into his practice. Outside of his professional life, he enjoys family activities, charity work, kayaking, paddleboarding, and bridge robotics.

Full episodes are available on all podcast platforms. https://nielasher.com/podcast For more information about NAT online courses, please visit https://nielasher.com/

00:00 Introduction 02:29 Vulnerability of the Eyes 05:11 Retinal Detachment 08:00 Ophthalmology 12:36 Dr Robert Abel 14:04 Eye Examination 15:48 Eye Surgery and Patient Anxiety 23:04 Improvements in Eye Surgery 24:50 Refractive Errors and Eye Health 26:11 Common Eye Diseases 27:09 Impact of Lifestyle on Eye Health 28:47 Effects of Smoking on Eye Health 30:43 Symmetry of Eye Conditions 33:27 Reversing Blindness 35:30 Technological Advancement in Eye Care 36:31 Evolution of Corneal Transplant Techniques 37:58 Considerations for Seeking Treatment 39:11 Balancing the Decision to Wait for Advanced Treatment 41:35 History of Eye Surgery 50:35 Eye Exercises and Vision Training 52:35 Effects of Modern Technology on Eyesight 55:06 The Dangers of Eye Rubbing 56:25 Effects of screen Time on Eyes 57:29 The Importance of Looking Far Away 1:01:57 Impact of Contact Lenses on Eye Health 1:05:56 Personal and Professional Reversals

In this episode our guest is Laurence Layne - We discuss the multifaceted world of holistic health and healing, exploring techniques like craniosacral therapy, osteopathy, and the integration of osteopathic techniques. Laurence shares his insights on creating a safe space for healing, learning from unexpected healing events, and the role of non-touch healing modalities. We discuss the history of holistic healing, shifting perspectives on health, and the integration of medicine and research, including quantifying frequencies in the body. We explore his journey into professional healing, the impact of learning neuromuscular techniques, his apprenticeship period, and the incorporation of Chinese medicine and herbal healing.

Laurence Layne, DOMTP, EWCH, LMT, has been a dedicated natural health professional since 1990. His passion spans across healing, wellness, holistic health, complementary and alternative medicine, spirituality, consciousness, and energy healing. In 1994, Laurence established Healing Waters Clinic, a multi-disciplinary holistic clinic in St. Augustine, Florida. Expanding his practice, he started his first herbal pharmacy, which evolved into an herbal dispensary and herb shop by 2000.

Laurence boasts strong clinical skills in Manual Osteopathy, Chinese Herbal Medicine, Western Herbalism (Physiomedicalism), and Naturopathic/Functional Medicine. He is also an accomplished researcher and writer. His contributions to the field reflect his extensive expertise and commitment to holistic health.

Full episodes are available on all podcast platforms. https://nielasher.com/podcast For more information about NAT online courses, please visit https://nielasher.com/

00:00 Introduction

02:05 Craniosacral Therapy

05:43 Osteopathy in the United States

07:28 Integration of Osteopathic Techniques

11:12 Creating a Safe Space for Healing

14:20 Learning from Unexpected Healing Events

16:21 Non-Touch Healing Modalities

19:28 History of Holistic Healing

22:50 Shifting Perspectives on Health

28:11 Integrative Medicine and Research

31:15 Quantifying Frequencies in the Body

39:34 Tai Chi and Qigong

41:10 Early Life and Herbal Awakening

46:00 Psychedelics

49:30 Journey into Professional Healing

52:27 Impact of Learning Neuromuscular Techniques

56:08 The Apprenticeship Period

1:01:52 Incorporating Chinese Medicine

1:06:49 Exploring Herbal Healing

1:10:58 Challenges in the Field of Herbalism

1:14:10 Meditation

1:21:05 Western Herbalism

1:42:40 Fundamental Changes in Beliefs

1:47:05 Learning from Life Lessons