105: Bacon, Biohacking, and How to Live Your Best Life – With Abel James

105: Bacon, Biohacking, and How to Live Your Best Life – With Abel James

In this episode of Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations, Dr. Izabella Wentz interviews Abel James, the New York Times bestselling author of The Wild Diet, podcast host, musician, and longtime leader in the ancestral health movement. Together, they discuss how the wellness world has evolved over the past decade, why real food still matters, and how modern health culture can sometimes drift into unhealthy extremes. Abel also shares powerful lessons from coaching on a national weight loss television show, recovering from a serious car accident, and learning how to prioritize sustainability, nervous system healing, muscle preservation, and longevity over perfection. This episode offers a refreshing perspective on what true wellness really looks like – especially as we age. What you’ll learn in this episode: * Why “real food” is still one of the most powerful healing tools we have. Abel explains why so many health trends come and go, but foundational principles like eating nutrient-dense whole foods continue to stand the test of time. He also shares why reclaiming your health starts with removing the foods and habits that disconnect you from your body. * The dangerous problem with modern weight loss culture (especially muscle loss). Abel shares behind-the-scenes insights from coaching on ABC’s weight loss competition show, and how his client lost 87 pounds, improved mobility, and maintained the results  without extreme restriction. * Why wellness can quietly become unhealthy. Abel shares why many people turn health into an obsession, chasing perfection through restrictive diets, overtraining, or extreme fitness goals. He explains why true health should give you more freedom, creativity, and energy for life – not make your world smaller. * How aging changes what your body needs (and why that’s not a bad thing). From marathon running to heavy lifting, Abel talks honestly about the habits that worked in our 20s but no longer support long-term health. He shares how his own recovery journey shifted his focus toward mobility, recovery, strength preservation, and sustainable movement practices. * The surprising connection between neuroplasticity, stress recovery, and healing. After a severe car accident, Abel explored therapies like PRP prolotherapy, ketamine infusions, and medically supervised psilocybin-assisted healing to support nervous system recovery. He also explains  why nervous system healing is becoming such an important part of longevity conversations. * Why AI can never replace human intuition and wisdom. Abel shares why concerns about relying too heavily on AI-generated health advice, especially when it comes to complex medical information, can be dangerous. Critical thinking, mentorship, books, and learning from real human experience are key when it comes to longevity and overall wellness. Tune in to learn more about longevity, sustainable wellness, nervous system healing, and how to create a healthier life that actually feels good to live.  Be sure to subscribe to the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast so you don’t miss an episode! Sign up for the Thyroid Pharmacist Weekly Thyroid Solutions Newsletter here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/ [https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/]  For the full list of resources and products mentioned in this episode, and to get the full episode transcript, see complete show notes here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/ [https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices [https://megaphone.fm/adchoices]

104: Fertility Secrets: What Doctors Don’t Tell You About Baby Making – Dr. Aumatma Simmons

In this episode of Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations, Dr. Izabella Wentz interviews Dr. Aumatma Simmons, a double board-certified naturopathic endocrinologist and fertility expert, about the hidden factors that can affect fertility and pregnancy outcomes. Together, they explore why fertility challenges are often a symptom of deeper imbalances – including thyroid autoimmunity, microbiome issues, mold exposure, hormone dysregulation, toxins, and chronic stress. They also discuss why so many women are told to “just keep trying,” why standard testing often misses key root causes, and what holistic fertility support can look like for people who want a more proactive and personalized path. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: * Fertility challenges are often a symptom, not the root issue. Dr. Aumatma explains that infertility is usually not one single condition, but a sign that deeper imbalances may be present. Issues like autoimmunity, mold, gut infections, hormone dysregulation, trauma, and environmental toxins can all send the body the message that it is not safe to reproduce. * Safety matters more than perfection when it comes to fertility. One of the most important takeaways from this episode is the idea that the body needs to feel safe in order to conceive. When the immune system, nervous system, or hormones are stuck in survival mode, reproduction often gets deprioritized – even if lab work looks “normal” on the surface. * Thyroid antibodies can affect fertility even when standard labs appear normal. We talked about how Hashimoto’s and thyroid autoimmunity can interfere with ovulation, pregnancy maintenance, and ovarian reserve, even before a person is diagnosed with overt hypothyroidism. This is one reason why a full thyroid workup – including antibodies – can be so important when fertility issues are present. * The vaginal and uterine microbiome may be an overlooked missing piece. Dr. Aumatma shared how microbiome imbalances can impact conception, implantation, miscarriage risk, and even endometriosis. What’s especially striking is that many women with these imbalances have no obvious symptoms, making this an important area to investigate. * Mold, toxins, and hidden infections can quietly derail fertility. If hormones improve and then crash again, or if someone has experienced recurrent pregnancy loss, Dr. Aumatma often looks deeper for factors like mold exposure, H. pylori, dental infections, or gut dysbiosis. These can keep the body in a stressed, inflammatory state that makes it much harder to conceive. * Taking random fertility supplements is not the same as targeted support. We discussed how people often end up with an entire shelf of supplements based on internet advice, without knowing what their body actually needs. Dr. Aumatma emphasizes the importance of understanding your own root causes so you can focus on the true needle movers instead of guessing. Tune in to learn more about fertility, thyroid health, microbiome balance, and the root causes that may be standing in the way of conception. Be sure to subscribe to the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast so you don’t miss an episode! Sign up for the Thyroid Pharmacist Weekly Thyroid Solutions Newsletter here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/ [https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/]  For the full list of resources and products mentioned in this episode, and to get the full episode transcript, see complete show notes here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/ [https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices [https://megaphone.fm/adchoices]

103: From “Unexplained Infertility” to Pregnant: Root-Cause Fertility With Dr. Jennifer Mercier

In this episode of Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations, Dr. Izabella Wentz interviews Dr. Jennifer Mercier, a naturopathic doctor, midwife, and fertility specialist, about the root causes of fertility challenges – especially in women with thyroid and autoimmune conditions. Together, they explore why many cases of infertility are labeled “unexplained” and how conventional approaches often overlook key factors like thyroid health, hormone balance, and pelvic floor function. Dr. Mercier shares her unique approach to restoring fertility through Mercier Therapy, lifestyle changes, and comprehensive testing, while Dr. Wentz reflects on her own journey of overcoming a diagnosis of premature ovarian insufficiency to conceive naturally. This episode offers hope, education, and practical insights for women seeking alternatives or complementary approaches to fertility treatment. What you’ll learn in this episode: * Why “unexplained infertility” often isn’t unexplained at all. Dr. Mercier suggests that some 60% of fertility cases fall into this category, yet underlying issues like thyroid dysfunction, hormone imbalances, endometriosis, and structural problems may go undetected. Identifying root causes can improve fertility outcomes before jumping straight to IVF.  * Why a full thyroid panel matters for fertility. Testing only TSH can miss important thyroid imbalances. Dr. Mercier explains why markers like free T3, free T4, reverse T3, and thyroid antibodies can provide critical insight into conception challenges, miscarriage risk, pregnancy health, and postpartum recovery.  * How pelvic health and blood flow impact fertility. Dr. Mercier explains how scar tissue, restricted mobility, and poor circulation in the pelvic organs may interfere with hormonal signaling and ovarian function. Her targeted Mercier Therapy is designed to restore mobility, circulation, and communication within the reproductive system.  * How long-term hormonal birth control may impact fertility and cycle recovery. Dr. Mercier discusses how prolonged suppression of ovulation may contribute to delayed cycle recovery, weaker ovulation signals, and hormone imbalances in some women after discontinuing birth control.  * The surprising lifestyle factors that impact fertility (for both partners). From stress and environmental toxins to alcohol and THC use, everyday habits can significantly affect egg quality, sperm health, and overall reproductive success. * Why preparing your body for pregnancy matters more than forcing it. Rather than rushing into aggressive interventions, Dr. Mercier emphasizes supporting the body – nutritionally, hormonally, and emotionally – to improve outcomes, whether you conceive naturally or pursue assisted options. Tune in to learn how to take a more holistic, root-cause approach to fertility and reproductive health. Be sure to subscribe to the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast so you don’t miss an episode! Sign up for the Thyroid Pharmacist Weekly Thyroid Solutions Newsletter here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/ [https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/]  For the full list of resources and products mentioned in this episode, and to get the full episode transcript, see complete show notes here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/ [https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices [https://megaphone.fm/adchoices]

102: Food as Medicine: The New Autoimmune Protocol With Mickey Trescott

In this episode of Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations, Dr. Izabella Wentz interviews Mickey Trescott, a nutrition expert and pioneer in the autoimmune protocol (AIP) movement. Mickey shares her personal journey with Hashimoto’s and celiac disease, and how she transformed her health through food. Together, they explore the evolution of AIP – from a strict elimination diet to a more flexible, research-backed protocol that helps individuals identify food triggers and reclaim their health. They also dive into clinical research supporting AIP, the importance of reintroducing foods, and why a personalized approach is key to long-term success. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating autoimmune conditions and looking for sustainable ways to heal. What you’ll learn in this episode: * Why the autoimmune protocol isn’t meant to be forever. Many people assume AIP is a lifelong restrictive diet, but Mickey explains how it’s actually a temporary tool designed to identify your personal food triggers so you can expand your diet with confidence and freedom. * How food can drive real, measurable remission in autoimmune disease. From clinical studies in inflammatory bowel disease to real-world outcomes in Hashimoto’s, we discuss how dietary changes can reduce inflammation, improve symptoms, and even shift disease progression. * The biggest mistake people make with elimination diets. Removing one food at a time often doesn’t work because the immune system is still “loud” with multiple triggers. AIP works by clearing the slate so you can actually hear what your body is telling you. * Why the “modified AIP” approach may be a better starting point. After years of clinical experience and research, Mickey shares why a more flexible version of AIP (including foods like rice and certain legumes) can reduce stress, improve compliance, and still deliver powerful results. * How to reintroduce foods without fear (or setbacks). The reintroduction phase is where the magic happens – when done correctly, it helps you build a personalized, sustainable way of eating without triggering symptoms. * The surprising connection between food sensitivities and hormones. Food reactions don’t always show up immediately. They can impact mood, skin, and even menstrual cycles days later, making tracking and timing essential. Tune in to learn more about using food as medicine for autoimmune healing.  Be sure to subscribe to the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast so you don’t miss an episode! Sign up for the Thyroid Pharmacist Weekly Thyroid Solutions Newsletter here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/ [https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/]  For the full list of resources and products mentioned in this episode, and to get the full episode transcript, see complete show notes here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/ [https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices [https://megaphone.fm/adchoices]

101: The Thyroid Fix: Why “Normal” Labs Aren’t Enough With Dr. Amie Hornaman

In this episode of Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations, Dr. Izabella Wentz interviews Dr. Amie Hornaman – also known as “The Thyroid Fixer” – a hormone optimization specialist and founder of the Advanced Thyroid and Hormone Clinic. Dr. Amie shares her personal journey of being misdiagnosed by six doctors while experiencing weight gain, fatigue, and hair loss, and how that experience led her to become a leader in functional thyroid care. Together, they explore why so many thyroid patients continue to struggle despite “normal” lab results, and the importance of going beyond TSH to truly optimize thyroid health. From T4/T3 therapy to nutrient deficiencies and hormone imbalances, this episode provides a comprehensive look at what it really takes to feel well again. What you’ll learn in this episode:  * Why most thyroid patients don’t feel better on T4-only medications. Dr. Amie shares that only a small percentage of people truly thrive on T4 alone, and explains why adding T3 or using alternative therapies can be a game changer for energy, weight, and hair health. * How “thyropause” impacts women over 40. Hormonal fluctuations during perimenopause can trigger or worsen thyroid dysfunction, creating a cascade of symptoms that are often dismissed as “just aging.” * The foundational nutrients your thyroid needs to function. Dr. Amie discusses how key nutrient deficiencies (vitamin D, magnesium, B vitamins, and L-tyrosine) can prevent proper thyroid hormone production and conversion. * Why you must address the whole body to heal the thyroid. Dr. Amie explains why focusing on thyroid labs alone isn’t enough – and how hormones, gut health, stress, and metabolism must all be supported together for lasting results.  * The truth about iodine (and how to use it safely). Iodine can be beneficial when used correctly, but high doses or improper use can backfire. * One simple dietary shift that can reduce autoimmune attacks. A gluten-free diet may help lower thyroid antibodies and inflammation by reducing immune system confusion and reactivity in people with Hashimoto’s.  Tune in to learn more about optimizing your thyroid health and finally feeling like yourself again.  Be sure to subscribe to the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast so you don’t miss an episode! Sign up for the Thyroid Pharmacist Weekly Thyroid Solutions Newsletter here: ⁠https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/⁠ [https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/]  For the full list of resources and products mentioned in this episode, and to get the full episode transcript, see complete show notes here: ⁠https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/ [https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices [https://megaphone.fm/adchoices]