Acupuncture, Longevity, & Mitochondrial Health with Dr. Jacqueline Junco

Acupuncture, Longevity, & Mitochondrial Health with Dr. Jacqueline Junco

What if longevity isn't just about living longer—but living better? In the Season 1 finale of Essence & Essentials, Jasmine Looi sits down with Dr. Jacqueline Junco, an MD, MPH, board-certified integrative medicine physician and Chair of Integrative Medicine at Nova Southeastern University. With over 30 years of experience blending conventional medicine with traditional Chinese medicine, Dr. Junco shares her journey into acupuncture, nutrition, longevity medicine, and whole-person care. Together, they explore: * How acupuncture influences the autonomic nervous system and stress response * The connection between chronic inflammation, immune function, and overall health * Mitochondrial health and practical strategies to optimize energy production * The role of exercise, sleep, nutrition, and stress management in longevity * Omega-3s, magnesium, vitamin D, and other commonly discussed supplements * Emerging trends in longevity medicine, including peptides and biohacking * Circadian rhythms, morning sunlight, grounding, and mindfulness practices * Building a longer health span—not just a longer lifespan Dr. Junco also shares her personal daily wellness routine, favorite longevity habits, and practical advice for students, healthcare professionals, and anyone looking to improve their physical and mental well-being. Whether you're interested in integrative medicine, preventive health, healthy aging, or optimizing your daily habits, this conversation offers valuable insights into creating a healthier, more resilient life. Listen in as we discuss the science and philosophy of longevity, stress reduction, and living well from the cellular level up. Stay tuned with... Spotify/Apple Podcasts: “Essence and Essentials” Instagram and TikTok: @essenceandessentials_ Youtube: @essenceandessentials

Global Public Health Perspectives: Kuwait and the US with Hamed Jarwan

For this episode of Essence and Essentials, Jasmine Looi sits down with Hamed Jarwan to explore public health, healthcare systems, and cultural lifestyle differences between Kuwait and the United States. From universal healthcare and government-funded medicine to chronic disease prevention, smoking culture, and late-night food industry, the conversation highlights how social context of Kuwait shapes population health outcomes. Hamed shares insights from his experiences in both Kuwait and the U.S., discussing obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and the challenges of balancing modernization, convenience, and wellness in today’s world. Together, they reflect on the importance of prevention, lifestyle habits, and building healthier communities through awareness and cultural change. Stay tuned with... Spotify/Apple Podcasts: "Essence and Essentials" Instagram and TikTok: @essenceandessentials_ Youtube: @essenceandessentials

Work-Life Balance as a Medical Student Podcaster

For her first self-episode, Jasmine Looi reflects on completing her second semester of medical school while pursuing work-life balance through running, friendships, family support, and personal growth. From navigating the intensity of medical school to learning the importance of mindset, self-care, and staying grounded in your “why,” this solo episode dives into the realities of balancing ambition with well-being. Jasmine shares five key takeaways from her recent experiences, including enjoying the learning process, staying curious, protecting your peace, and believing in yourself even during overwhelming moments. Whether you’re a medical student, healthcare professional, or simply someone striving for balance in a demanding season of life, this episode offers honest reflections, encouragement, and reminders to slow down, stay present, and trust your journey. CARE philanthropy: https://www.care.org/ [https://www.care.org/] Stay tuned with... Spotify/Apple Podcasts: “Essence and Essentials” Instagram and TikTok: @essenceandessentials_ Youtube: @essenceandessentials

Medical School Across States: A Panel with Tiffany Liu, Carmelina Gorski, & Simon Coroza

In this episode, Jasmine Looi is joined by three other medical students at different stages of their journey—an M1, M2, and M4—bringing diverse perspectives across time, geography, and experience. From Philadelphia to Gainesville to New York City, this conversation dives into how future physicians are not only improving the quantity and quality of life for their patients, but also learning to do the same for themselves. Together, they explore: 1. Evolving specialty interests—from neurology and cardiology to anesthesiology and internal medicine. 2. The reality of work-life balance in medical school (and how environment shapes it) 3. Honest advice for pre-meds and current students navigating each stage Through personal stories—whether it’s long division during a cardiovascular exam, a Puerto Rico trip, or finding purpose in patient care—this episode captures the essence of becoming a physician while staying grounded as a person. Stay tuned with... Spotify/Apple Podcasts: “Essence and Essentials” Instagram and TikTok: @essenceandessentials_ Youtube: @essenceandessentials

Culture and Fitness with Medical Student Serratt Nong

In this episode of Essence and Essentials, Jasmine Looi talks with first-year osteopathic medical student, Serratt Nong, about his medical journey, shaped by his Cambodian heritage, family influence, and early exposure to the ER. He shares insights on balancing the demands of medical school with fitness, mental health, and personal life, emphasizing routines, “non-negotiables,” and staying grounded through exercise and hobbies. The conversation also explores physician burnout, work-life balance in medicine, and the importance of maintaining identity beyond the white coat. Stay tuned with... Spotify/Apple Podcasts: “Essence and Essentials” Instagram and TikTok: @essenceandessentials_ Youtube: @essenceandessentials