The Real Health Podcast

New Hope for Long COVID at Riordan Clinic

"This is a circulation upgrade." —Dr. Ron Hunninghake Many people recovering from COVID continue to deal with fatigue, brain fog, and symptoms that don’t fully resolve. For some, standard testing comes back normal, even when they don’t feel back to baseline. In this episode of the Real Health Podcast, Dr. Ron Hunninghake and Dr. Michelle Niesley discuss long COVID, microclots, and how changes in circulation are being studied in relation to ongoing symptoms. They walk through what clinicians are seeing in practice and why long COVID can be difficult to define. Symptoms can show up in many different ways, which makes it harder to pinpoint a single cause. This has led to more attention on how blood flow and capillary function may influence how the body feels and functions over time. Dr. Hunninghake shares emerging research around microclots and how they may affect circulation at the smallest levels of the body. Dr. Niesley connects that to what co-learners are experiencing and why some people continue to search for answers even after being told everything looks normal. They also discuss a protocol being explored at the clinic that includes HOT UBI and intravenous vitamin C, along with how often treatments are given and what the process looks like. Early experiences are shared, along with the importance of continuing to learn through observation and data over time. 👉 Learn more about HOT UBI with IVC [https://riordanclinic.org/what-we-do/hot-ubi-with-ivc/] and how it’s being used as part of an individualized approach. You’ll also hear how this approach fits into the broader Riordan model—looking at nutrient status, environmental factors, and the full picture of a person’s health. If you’re navigating lingering symptoms after COVID or trying to understand what may be contributing to them, we hope this conversation offers a place to start. 👉 Learn more or request an appointment at riordanclinic.org ✨ Riordan Clinic is also celebrating 50 years of care at the upcoming Pearls & Purpose Gala. This evening brings together community, research, and the future of care. 👉 Reserve your seat at gala.riordanclinic.org Episode links and resources Explore integrative services at Riordan Clinic [https://riordanclinic.org] Become a Riordan Clinic co-learner [https://riordanclinic.org/become-a-patient/] Learn more about Dr. Ron Hunninghake [https://riordanclinic.org/staff/ron-hunninghake-md/] Learn more about Dr. Michelle Niesley [https://riordanclinic.org/staff/michelle-niesley-nd-ms-fabno/] Reserve your seat at the Pearls & Purpose Gala [https://gala.riordanclinic.org/] Watch more Real Health Podcast episodes [https://realhealthpodcast.org] Episode chapters 00:00 Welcome to the Real Health Podcast 00:57 What long COVID can look like 02:06 Microclots and circulation 03:35 Microclots vs. larger clots 03:53 Challenges with testing 05:05 Exploring new approaches 05:23 HOT UBI and IV vitamin C 07:36 Treatment frequency 09:33 Safety and process 11:23 Side effects and observations 11:52 Looking ahead 13:25 Final thoughts Disclaimer The information contained on the Real Health Podcast and the resources mentioned are for educational purposes only. They are not intended as and shall not be understood or construed as medical or health advice. The information contained on this podcast is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. Information provided by hosts and guests on the Real Health Podcast or the use of any products or services mentioned does not create a practitioner-patient relationship between you and any persons affiliated with this podcast. Topics we explore in this episode include: long COVID symptoms, microclots and circulation, fatigue and brain fog, integrative medicine, HOT UBI therapy, intravenous vitamin C, chronic illness patterns, functional medicine approach, Riordan Clinic, Real Health Podcast

Proactive vs Reactive Care and Integrative Medicine Leadership

"We’re moving from reactive care to proactive care." —Dr. Michelle Niesley Some people feel like they’re always reacting to symptoms without really understanding what’s underneath them. In this episode of the Real Health Podcast, Dr. Ron Hunninghake sits down with Dr. Michelle Niesley to discuss leadership at Riordan Clinic and what it means to move toward a more proactive approach to care. They talk about how communication across teams shapes the experience for co-learners, and why that matters from the very first call through long-term follow-up. Dr. Niesley also shares her background in integrative oncology and research, and how that perspective helps her see where care can be more connected and more clear. They explore what it looks like to move from a reactive model to a more proactive one—using testing, data, and patterns over time to better understand what each person may need. There’s also a conversation around newer tools, like wearable technology, and how those can help people stay more aware of what’s changing in their bodies day to day. You’ll also hear how the co-learner model shows up in real life. People are asking more questions, looking for clarity, and wanting to be part of the process. As Riordan Clinic looks ahead, the focus is on staying connected to the community, continuing research, and building on what’s already working to support co-learners over time. If you’re exploring integrative medicine or looking for a more personalized way to approach your health, you can learn more or request an appointment at riordanclinic.org [https://riordanclinic.org/]. ✨ Riordan Clinic is also celebrating 50 years of care at the upcoming Pearls & Purpose Gala. It’s a chance to come together, reflect on where the clinic has been, and support where it’s going. To learn more or reserve your seat, visit gala.riordanclinic.org [https://gala.riordanclinic.org/] Many co-learners start by gathering information and asking questions before deciding what makes sense for them. Conversations like this are meant to support that process. Episode links and resources Explore integrative services at Riordan Clinic [https://riordanclinic.org] Become a new co-learner [https://riordanclinic.org/become-a-patient/] Learn more about Dr. Ron Hunninghake [https://riordanclinic.org/staff/ron-hunninghake-md/] Learn more about Dr. Michelle Niesley [https://riordanclinic.org/staff/michelle-niesley-nd-ms-fabno/] Reserve your seat at the Pearls & Purpose Gala [https://gala.riordanclinic.org/] Watch more Real Health Podcast episodes [https://realhealthpodcast.org] Episode chapters 00:00 Welcome to the Real Health Podcast 00:57 Leadership at Riordan Clinic 03:10 Dr. Niesley’s background and research 06:45 Transition to CEO role 10:05 Building a connected leadership team 13:20 Integrative medicine approach 16:10 From reactive to proactive care 19:05 Role of data and technology in care 21:45 Co-learner model and patient engagement 23:50 Looking ahead to the future of Riordan Clinic Disclaimer The information contained on the Real Health Podcast and the resources mentioned are for educational purposes only. They are not intended as and shall not be understood or construed as medical or health advice. The information contained on this podcast is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. Information provided by hosts and guests on the Real Health Podcast or the use of any products or services mentioned does not create a practitioner-patient relationship between you and any persons affiliated with this podcast. Topics we explore in this episode include: integrative medicine leadership, proactive vs reactive care, personalized health approach, co-learner model, functional medicine strategy, healthcare leadership communication, patient-centered care, health data and wearable technology, Riordan Clinic, Real Health Podcast

Long COVID, Microclots, and Circulation with Dr. Thomas Levy

"This is a circulation upgrade." —Dr. Thomas Levy Many people recovering from COVID describe persistent fatigue, brain fog, or a sense that their body has not fully returned to baseline. These experiences continue to raise questions for both patients and clinicians. In this episode of the Real Health Podcast, Dr. Ron Hunninghake welcomes Dr. Thomas Levy to discuss circulation, microclots, and how blood flow may influence recovery patterns. They discuss how circulation delivers oxygen throughout the body and why changes in blood flow may be associated with symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog, and reduced energy. The discussion also explores oxidative stress and laboratory markers such as D-dimer, a blood test sometimes used to evaluate clotting activity, when clinicians review circulation patterns. Dr. Ron and Dr. Levy also discuss microcirculation, the movement of blood through the smallest vessels in the body, and why disruptions in that system may influence how oxygen and nutrients reach tissues. The episode also explores hematogenous oxidative therapy (HOT) and ultraviolet blood irradiation (UBI), circulation-focused approaches that involve exposing a small amount of blood to controlled oxygen and ultraviolet light before reinfusion. Intravenous vitamin C may also be included as part of this approach in integrative clinical settings. Riordan Clinic recently began offering HOT-UBI with oxygenation and intravenous vitamin C as part of its integrative clinical services that focus on supporting circulation and cellular health. If you are curious whether approaches like this may be relevant to your situation, you can contact Riordan Clinic or request an appointment at riordanclinic.org to begin a conversation with our team. Many co-learners begin by gathering information and asking questions before deciding what next step makes sense for them. Conversations like this one are meant to support that process and help people better understand topics being explored in integrative clinical settings. Learn more about integrative services at Riordan Clinic [https://riordanclinic.org] Episode links and resources Become a new co-learner [https://riordanclinic.org/become-a-patient/] Watch more Real Health Podcast episodes [https://realhealthpodcast.org] Episode chapters 00:00 Welcome to the Real Health Podcast 00:56 Long COVID and persistent symptoms 03:12 Microcirculation and oxygen delivery 06:05 Microclots and blood flow 09:14 D-dimer and clotting markers 12:08 Ultraviolet blood irradiation and oxygenation 16:02 HOT-UBI therapy discussion 20:24 Circulation and chronic health patterns 24:10 Research and clinical observations Disclaimer The information contained on the Real Health Podcast and the resources mentioned are for educational purposes only. They are not intended as and shall not be understood or construed as medical or health advice. The information contained on this podcast is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. Information provided by hosts and guests on the Real Health Podcast or the use of any products or services mentioned does not create a practitioner-patient relationship between you and any persons affiliated with this podcast. Topics we explore in this episode include long COVID discussion, microcirculation, blood flow and tissue oxygenation, oxidative stress, D-dimer and clotting markers, ultraviolet blood irradiation, hematogenous oxidative therapy, oxygenation therapy, intravenous vitamin C, integrative health education, Real Health Podcast, Riordan Clinic

How Hormones and Metabolism Shape Your Energy, Mood, and Wellness

"If you don’t measure, you’re guessing." —Dr. Ron Hunninghake This episode is a recording from our February 26, 2026, Lunch & Learn at Riordan Clinic in Wichita. Energy that rises and crashes. Mood changes that feel difficult to explain. Sleep that looks fine on paper but never feels fully restorative. Many people are told their labs are normal, yet they still feel off. This Lunch & Learn is designed for individuals who want a clearer understanding of how hormones and metabolism influence daily vitality. In this session, Dr. Ron Hunninghake and Dr. Drew Rose explore how thyroid patterns, adrenal signaling, insulin dynamics, and nutrient status intersect with energy, mood, and long-term wellness. They discuss why a single lab marker may not always tell the full story and how a more comprehensive review can offer additional context when evaluating metabolic patterns. They also review stress physiology, environmental influences, and the importance of tracking trends over time rather than relying on one isolated result. The emphasis throughout the discussion is on thoughtful measurement, collaborative learning, and individualized decision-making. Learn more about Check Your Health [https://riordanclinic.org/our-lab/check-your-health/] | March 2–13, 2026 Available at Wichita and Overland Park locations Episode Links and Resources Explore integrative services at Riordan Clinic [https://riordanclinic.org/] Become a new co-learner [https://riordanclinic.org/become-a-patient/] Watch more Real Health Podcast episodes [https://realhealthpodcast.org/] Episode Chapters 00:00 Welcome and event overview 01:18 Why hormones and metabolism matter 03:42 Looking beyond a single thyroid marker 06:15 Adrenal patterns and stress response 08:37 Insulin dynamics and energy regulation 10:54 Nutrient status and metabolic support 13:22 Environmental and lifestyle considerations 15:40 Measurement, monitoring, and next steps Disclaimer The information contained in this Lunch & Learn recording and the resources mentioned are for educational purposes only. They are not intended as and shall not be understood or construed as medical or health advice. The information shared is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. Information provided by presenters or the use of any products or services mentioned does not create a practitioner-patient relationship. Topics we explore in this Lunch & Learn include: hormone health education, thyroid evaluation discussion, adrenal physiology, stress response, insulin dynamics, blood sugar regulation, metabolic health, nutrient testing, laboratory measurement, sleep and energy patterns, integrative health education, Riordan Clinic, Check Your Health

Hormones, Metabolism, and the Energy Equation

"Measure, measure, measure." —Dr. Ron Hunninghake Fatigue that lingers. Brain fog that will not clear. Sleep that never feels restorative. Many people are told their labs are within normal ranges, yet they still do not feel like themselves. This conversation is designed for anyone looking to better understand hormone health, thyroid health, and metabolic patterns that can shape daily energy. In this episode of the Real Health Podcast, Dr. Ron Hunninghake and Dr. Drew Rose explore how hormones and metabolism influence energy patterns, mood, sleep, and day-to-day vitality. They discuss why thyroid evaluation can involve more than a single TSH result and how markers such as free T3 and reverse T3 may add helpful context when reviewing metabolic patterns. Register for Lunch & Learn: How Hormones and Metabolism Shape Your Energy, Mood, and Wellness [https://riordanclinic.org/events/lunch-learn-february-2026/] (attend in person or watch live on YouTube)   Learn more about Check Your Health [https://riordanclinic.org/our-lab/check-your-health/] (March 2–13) They also talk through adrenal function, stress physiology, insulin dynamics, and the ways nutrient status can intersect with hormone balance. Dr. Ron shares historical context around hormone therapy, including where past concerns originated, and explains how careful measurement and ongoing monitoring can support individualized decisions. Upcoming events at the Riordan Clinic Lunch & Learn   Thursday, February 26, 2026   Lunch: 11:30 AM | Lecture: 12:00 PM   Register to attend in person or watch live on YouTube [https://riordanclinic.org/events/lunch-learn-february-2026/] Check Your Health   March 2–13, 2026   Available at Wichita and Overland Park locations   Learn more about Check Your Health [https://riordanclinic.org/our-lab/check-your-health/] Episode links and resources Explore integrative services at Riordan Clinic [https://riordanclinic.org] Become a new co-learner [https://riordanclinic.org/become-a-patient/] Listen to more Real Health Podcast episodes [https://realhealthpodcast.org/] Episode chapters   00:00 Welcome   00:56 Why hormones and metabolism matter   02:22 Looking beyond TSH   03:59 Free T3 and reverse T3 explained   07:14 Adrenal patterns and stress   08:43 Insulin and nutrient interplay   10:21 Sleep and hormone balance   11:28 Environmental influences on hormone levels   12:51 Questions about hormone therapy   15:28 Measurement and long-term perspective + closing reflections Disclaimer   The information contained on the Real Health Podcast and the resources mentioned are for educational purposes only. They are not intended as and shall not be understood or construed as medical or health advice. The information contained on this podcast is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. Information provided by hosts and guests on the Real Health Podcast or the use of any products or services mentioned does not create a practitioner-patient relationship between you and any persons affiliated with this podcast. Topics we explore in this episode include:   thyroid evaluation, free T3, reverse T3, adrenal physiology, stress physiology, insulin dynamics, hormone balance discussion, nutrient status, laboratory evaluation, metabolic patterns