Modern Thyroid and Wellness

What if chronic illness is rarely caused by just one thing?In this episode of Modern Thyroid & Wellness, McCall McPherson sits down with Dr. Richard Horowitz, board-certified internist and longtime medical director of the Hudson Valley Healing Arts Center, to explore a very different way of thinking about chronic disease.After more than four decades working with complex Lyme and tick-borne illness patients, Dr. Horowitz developed what he calls the MSIDS model, or Multiple Systemic Infectious Disease Syndrome. His framework looks at multiple overlapping drivers of inflammation rather than assuming one diagnosis has one cause and one treatment.The conversation also explores his new book, Ending Chronic Illness: A Revolutionary New Program to Reverse Inflammation to Heal Chronic Disease, which brings together decades of clinical experience and research around Lyme disease, long COVID, chronic fatigue, neurological symptoms, immune dysfunction, toxins, gut health, hormones, mitochondrial dysfunction, sleep, and more.🔑 In This Episode:How Dr. Horowitz unexpectedly became immersed in Lyme diseaseWhy some patients remain sick after standard treatmentThe origins of his 16-point MSIDS modelThe “six rivers of inflammation”Infections and co-infectionsEnvironmental toxins, mold, and heavy metalsGut dysfunction, leaky gut, and mast-cell activationVitamin and mineral deficienciesSleep disorders and chronic inflammationMitochondrial dysfunction and energy productionHormonal dysregulation and the thyroid-adrenal axisImmune dysfunction and autoimmunityPOTS and autonomic nervous system dysfunctionLiver health, fatty liver, insulin, and metabolic syndromeNeurological and psychological symptomsWhy Dr. Horowitz believes the one-disease, one-treatment model often falls short in complex chronic illnessEarly signs that may warrant a deeper evaluationHis approach to Lyme symptom screening and testingGenetics, oxidative stress, and inflammatory pathwaysLifestyle strategies for prevention and longevityDiet, exercise, sleep, meditation, gut health, and stress reductionHis perspective on GLP-1s and inflammationWhy his new book represents what he calls his life’s workThe Six Rivers of InflammationDr. Horowitz describes six major upstream areas he believes can contribute to chronic inflammation:InfectionsEnvironmental toxinsGut microbiome dysfunctionIntestinal permeability and mast-cell issuesVitamin and mineral deficienciesSleep disordersHe then connects those upstream factors with downstream effects involving mitochondria, hormones, immune function, the autonomic nervous system, the liver, metabolism, neurological function, and more.Thyroid, Hormones & Chronic InflammationFor thyroid patients, one of the most relevant parts of the discussion is Dr. Horowitz’s view that chronic inflammation can influence the hypothalamic-pituitary-hormonal system.He discusses low testosterone, adrenal dysfunction, autoimmune thyroid antibodies, metabolic syndrome, POTS, and other downstream effects he sees in complex chronic illness.Lifestyle Still MattersDespite the complexity of his framework, Dr. Horowitz repeatedly returns to the fundamentals:Mediterranean-style nutrition personalized to the individualExerciseAdequate sleepSupporting the microbiomeStress reduction and meditationReducing relevant environmental exposuresAddressing metabolic health📘 Get Ending Chronic IllnessEnding Chronic Illness: A Revolutionary New Program to Reverse Inflammation to Heal Chronic DiseaseBy Dr. Richard HorowitzAvailable through:cangetbetter.comDr. Horowitz is specifically asking the chronic illness community to purchase the book between November 1 and November 7 to support its bestseller launch.Connect With Dr. Richard HorowitzWebsite:cangetbetter.comSubstack:Medical DetectiveFacebook:Dr. Richard Horowitz📖 Pre-Order Take Back Your Thyroid + Get a Free BonusPre-order McCall McPherson’s new book, Take Back Your Thyroid, and choose one free bonus:🎓 Thyroid Empowered Course — a $399 value OR 🩺 $150 off a new patient visit at Modern Thyroid Clinichttps://book.modernthyroidclinic.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and WellnessModern Thyroid Clinic:https://modernthyroidclinic.com/McCall McPherson:https://www.mccallmcpherson.com/Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/mccallmcphersonpa/YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0_JyQdBAJwYT3rMDsvyriwFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/McCallMcPhersonPAC/X / Twitter:https://x.com/thyroidexpertThis episode is for educational and informational purposes only. Statements about EWOT, red light therapy, Lyme disease, inflammation, cancer, detoxification, or other health conditions reflect the guest’s personal experience and discussion and should not be interpreted as medical advice or a substitute for individualized medical care.

What if one of the simplest tools for supporting energy and recovery was something your body already depends on every second of the day: oxygen?In this episode of Modern Thyroid & Wellness, McCall McPherson sits down with Brad Pitzele, founder and CEO of One Thousand Roads, to explore EWOT, Exercise With Oxygen Therapy, and the personal health journey that led Brad to build his own system.Brad’s story began long before One Thousand Roads. After years of dealing with psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, severe pain, fatigue, brain fog, melanoma, and eventually a Lyme disease diagnosis, he found himself trying treatment after treatment without getting the recovery he was looking for. Eventually, a functional medicine doctor suggested he investigate oxygen therapy.When commercial options felt too expensive and impractical, Brad put his engineering background to work and built his own EWOT system. What started as a personal experiment ultimately became the foundation for One Thousand Roads.🔑 In This Episode:Brad’s journey with autoimmune arthritis, melanoma, Lyme disease, pain, fatigue, and brain fogWhy conventional treatments eventually left him searching for another pathHow he discovered Exercise With Oxygen TherapyWhat EWOT actually is and how a typical session worksWhy exercise changes the body’s demand for oxygenOxygen, cellular energy, mitochondria, and ATP productionBrad’s perspective on oxygen, inflammation, and microcirculationHow he gradually rebuilt his cardiovascular capacityWhy some people notice improvements in energy, sleep, or exercise tolerance firstHow EWOT can be adapted for people with lower exercise capacityWhy Brad pairs EWOT with red and near-infrared lightHis typical sequence: exercise with oxygen followed immediately by red lightUsing EWOT at home versus visiting a clinicBrad’s personal view on oxygen therapy, recovery, aging, and detoxificationWhat Is EWOT?EWOT stands for Exercise With Oxygen Therapy.Brad describes it as approximately 15 minutes of cardiovascular exercise while breathing concentrated oxygen through a mask. His system uses an oxygen concentrator to fill a reservoir so enough oxygen is available while someone is exercising and breathing at a much higher rate.Brad says the idea is to combine the physiological changes of exercise, including faster breathing, increased circulation, and greater oxygen demand, with higher oxygen availability.From Barely Walking to Rebuilding His CapacityOne of the most striking parts of Brad’s story is how limited he had become physically.At one point, foot pain was so severe that he needed heavily cushioned support simply to exercise. Over time, as his health improved, he says his endurance changed dramatically and he later measured a VO2 max that placed him near the top of his age group.Brad presents this as his personal experience, not as a guarantee of what EWOT will do for another person.Why Pair EWOT With Red Light?Brad also combines EWOT with red and near-infrared light therapy.His protocol is typically:15 minutes of EWOTfollowed immediately by8–10 minutes of red light therapyBrad believes the combination may support mitochondrial energy production by pairing increased oxygen availability with the cellular signaling effects associated with red and near-infrared light.Connect With Brad Pitzele & One Thousand RoadsSpecial Listener Offer:https://www.onethousandroads.com/modern-thyroidOne Thousand Roads:https://www.onethousandroads.com/YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@OneThousandRoadsHQFollow Brad Pitzele on Instagram:http://instagram.com/bradpitzeleLearn More About Exercise With Oxygen Therapy, EWOT:https://www.onethousandroads.com/pages/exercise-with-oxygen-therapyLearn More About Red Light Therapy & Infrared Light Therapy:https://www.onethousandroads.com/pages/red-light-therapy-education📖 Pre-Order Take Back Your Thyroid + Get a Free BonusPre-order McCall McPherson’s new book, Take Back Your Thyroid, and choose one free bonus:🎓 Thyroid Empowered Course — a $399 valueOR🩺 $150 off a new patient visit at Modern Thyroid Clinic👉 https://book.modernthyroidclinic.com/📱 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and WellnessModern Thyroid Clinic:https://modernthyroidclinic.com/McCall McPherson:https://www.mccallmcpherson.com/Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/mccallmcphersonpa/YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0_JyQdBAJwYT3rMDsvyriwFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/McCallMcPhersonPAC/X / Twitter:https://x.com/thyroidexpertThis episode is for educational and informational purposes only. Statements about EWOT, red light therapy, Lyme disease, inflammation, cancer, detoxification, or other health conditions reflect the guest’s personal experience and discussion and should not be interpreted as medical advice or a substitute for individualized medical care.

GLP-1 medications have become synonymous with weight loss—but what if their impact on women’s health goes far beyond the number on the scale?Recorded live at SXSW in Austin, this special panel brings together experts in thyroid and metabolic health, fertility, menopause, and strength training to explore what women should really understand about GLP-1 medications.Moderated by Dr. Shannon Ritchey, PT, DPT, the conversation features McCall McPherson, PA-C, Dr. Natalie Crawford, MD, and Dr. Jessica Shepherd, MD. Together, they discuss appropriate use, microdosing, insulin resistance, inflammation, thyroid disease, PCOS, fertility, perimenopause, menopause, muscle preservation, side effects, long-term use, and the importance of individualized care.🔑 In This Episode:What GLP-1 medications actually do beyond appetite suppressionWhy these medications were first used for diabetes and metabolic healthMicrodosing vs. traditional dosingWhy individualized dosing may help some women better tolerate treatmentGLP-1s, thyroid dysfunction, Hashimoto’s, and inflammationSeparating thyroid-cancer concerns from what the panel says current human evidence showsWhy adequate calories and protein matter while using a GLP-1The importance of preserving and building muscleGLP-1s, insulin resistance, PCOS, and fertilityWhy GLP-1 medications are not recommended while actively trying to conceive or during pregnancyPerimenopause, menopause, HRT, glucose regulation, and visceral fatWhen GLP-1 use may be short-term vs. longer-termSemaglutide, tirzepatide, and individualized prescribingDEXA scans, creatine, resistance training, and lean-mass preservationFasting insulin, A1c, leptin, and other metabolic markersSleep, HRV, hydration, and what wearables may revealFood noise, body image, and why appropriate medical screening mattersFertility, PCOS & GLP-1sDr. Natalie Crawford explains that fertility is more than simply the ability to become pregnant—it can also reflect hormonal and metabolic health.For patients with PCOS and insulin resistance, improving metabolic health may help restore ovulation and support fertility. However, Dr. Crawford emphasizes that GLP-1 medications are not intended to be used while actively trying to conceive or during pregnancy and discusses stopping them before conception under medical guidance.She also highlights resistance training and skeletal muscle as powerful tools for glucose utilization, insulin sensitivity, inflammation, and reproductive health.Thyroid Health, Inflammation & MicrodosingMcCall shares how her approach evolved toward lower, individualized doses after seeing patients struggle with nausea, inadequate nutrition, and difficulty consuming enough protein on standard dosing.The goal, she explains, is not simply appetite suppression or rapid weight loss. It is finding a dose that allows patients to nourish themselves, preserve muscle, and improve metabolic health while minimizing side effects.Menopause & Midlife Metabolic HealthDr. Jessica Shepherd explores how declining estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone during perimenopause and menopause influence the entire body—not just reproductive health.The panel discusses the relationship between hormone changes, glucose regulation, insulin, inflammation, visceral fat, joint symptoms, and the potential role GLP-1s may have alongside other individualized midlife interventions.Protecting Muscle on a GLP-1Dr. Shannon Ritchey emphasizes that simply “lifting weights” is not always enough to preserve or build muscle.The panel discusses adequate protein and calories, monitoring body composition, potentially using tools such as DEXA scans, and performing resistance training with enough intensity to stimulate muscle adaptation.📖 Pre-Order Take Back Your Thyroid + Get a Free BonusPre-order McCall McPherson’s new book, Take Back Your Thyroid, and choose one free bonus:🎓 Thyroid Empowered Course — a $399 value OR🩺 $150 off a new patient visit at Modern Thyroid Clinic👉 https://book.modernthyroidclinic.com/Featured PanelistsMcCall McPherson, PA-CFounder, Modern Thyroid Clinic Thyroid & metabolic healthDr. Natalie Crawford, MDFertility specialist and co-founder of Fora Fertility Author of The Fertility FormulaDr. Jessica Shepherd, MDOB-GYN and women’s health expert Author of Generation MDr. Shannon Ritchey, PT, DPTFounder of Evlo Fitness Strength training and muscle-preservation expert📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and WellnessModern Thyroid Clinic:https://modernthyroidclinic.com/McCall McPherson:https://www.mccallmcpherson.com/Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/mccallmcphersonpa/YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0_JyQdBAJwYT3rMDsvyriwFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/McCallMcPhersonPAC/X / Twitter:https://x.com/thyroidexpertThis episode is for educational purposes only. GLP-1 medications are prescription medications and treatment decisions should be made with a qualified healthcare professional based on individual history, risks, goals, and current evidence.

What if insulin resistance is quietly driving inflammation, weight gain, and thyroid dysfunction years before blood sugar ever looks abnormal?In this episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness, McCall McPherson sits down with endocrinologist Dr. Alessia Roehnelt for an in-depth conversation about insulin resistance and why it can be such an important marker of long-term metabolic health.Dr. Roehnelt explains how insulin functions in the body, what happens when insulin resistance develops, and why chronically elevated insulin can contribute to inflammation, weight gain, metabolic dysfunction, and disease progression.They also explore the bidirectional relationship between insulin resistance and hypothyroidism, including how thyroid dysfunction can worsen metabolic health and how insulin resistance can complicate thyroid function and treatment.🔑 In This Episode:What insulin resistance is and how it developsWhy insulin resistance may appear before prediabetes or type 2 diabetesCommon physical and metabolic signs of insulin resistanceAcanthosis nigricans, carb sensitivity, and rapid weight fluctuationsThe relationship between insulin resistance and hypothyroidismHow insulin resistance may affect thyroid hormone absorption and conversionWhy fasting insulin can provide useful information beyond A1c alone“Normal” vs. optimal fasting glucose, insulin, and A1c valuesWhy population-based lab ranges do not always reflect optimal healthThe role of vitamin D in metabolic and hormonal healthFatty liver markers including AST and ALT🏃‍♀️ Improving Insulin SensitivityDr. Roehnelt and McCall discuss foundational strategies including:Consistent, restorative sleepStrength and resistance trainingReducing refined carbohydratesPairing carbohydrates with protein and fatUsing continuous glucose monitors to better understand personal responsesStrategic intermittent fasting when appropriate💊 Medications DiscussedMetforminImproves insulin sensitivityHas a long history of clinical useCan be a cost-effective early interventionGLP-1 receptor agonistsReduce appetite and slow gastric emptyingLower liver glucose productionImprove insulin signalingMay help reduce inflammation in appropriate patients🌿 Key TakeawaysInsulin resistance can often be improved when identified early.“Normal” lab values do not always tell the entire story, and weight gain is far more complex than calories in versus calories out.One of the biggest themes in this episode is that inflammation connects metabolic dysfunction, thyroid disease, and autoimmunity, making individualized, whole-body evaluation incredibly important. 📖 Pre-Order Take Back Your Thyroid + Get a Free BonusPre-order McCall McPherson’s new book, Take Back Your Thyroid, and choose one free bonus:🎓 Thyroid Empowered Course — a $399 valueOR🩺 $150 off a new patient visit at Modern Thyroid Clinic👉 https://book.modernthyroidclinic.com/📍 Connect with Dr. Alessia RoehneltWebsite & Practice:https://www.endohealthdoc.comInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/endohealthdoc/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/alessia.roehnelt📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and WellnessModern Thyroid Clinic:https://modernthyroidclinic.com/McCall McPherson:https://www.mccallmcpherson.com/Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/mccallmcphersonpa/YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0_JyQdBAJwYT3rMDsvyriwFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/McCallMcPhersonPAC/X / Twitter:https://x.com/thyroidexpert

What if the brain fog, forgetfulness, emotional overwhelm, anxiety, or difficulty getting things done isn’t simply stress—or even your thyroid?In this episode of Modern Thyroid & Wellness, McCall McPherson, PA-C sits down with Dr. Jolene Brighten, women’s health expert and bestselling author, to explore the often-overlooked connection between ADHD in women, thyroid function, hormones, perimenopause, inflammation, and brain health.Dr. Brighten explains why so many women reach adulthood without an ADHD diagnosis and why hormonal transitions can suddenly make symptoms that were once manageable feel impossible to ignore.She also explains an important overlap for thyroid patients: hypothyroidism itself can create ADHD-like symptoms, including brain fog, low mental energy, working-memory problems, changes in neurotransmitter function, and difficulty with executive function.In This Episode:Why ADHD in women is often missed or misdiagnosedHow female ADHD can look different from stereotypical hyperactivityAnxiety, depression, and undiagnosed ADHDHow hypothyroidism can mimic ADHD symptomsEmotional dysregulation, time blindness, and executive dysfunctionADHD, Hashimoto’s, PMDD, endometriosis, POTS, histamine issues, and other co-occurring conditionsDr. Brighten’s brain-immune-hormone modelWhy puberty, postpartum, birth control, perimenopause, and postmenopause can change ADHD symptomsEstrogen, progesterone, testosterone, cortisol, insulin, and brain energyWhy perimenopause can make ADHD much harder to manageGut health, sleep, exercise, protein, omega-3s, fiber, and polyphenolsHow to work with your healthcare provider instead of trying to DIY everythingADHD or Hypothyroidism?One of the most important conversations in this episode is the overlap between ADHD and low thyroid function.Dr. Brighten explains that hypothyroidism can affect brain energy, memory, attention, neurotransmitters, and executive function. Her approach is to address hypothyroidism first when it could be contributing to new ADHD-like symptoms.If difficulties with planning, organization, emotional regulation, focus, or executive function persist—especially when similar patterns have existed since childhood—it may be worth investigating another layer.Why Hormones MatterDr. Brighten discusses important hormonal windows when ADHD symptoms may change or become more obvious: puberty, postpartum, the pill, perimenopause, and postmenopause.During perimenopause in particular, shifts in estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, cortisol, insulin regulation, mitochondrial function, and brain energy may make brain fog, sleep problems, emotional dysregulation, and executive dysfunction more difficult.📖 AVAILABLE NOW: ADHD and WomenDr. Brighten’s new book, ADHD and Women: A Guide to Optimizing Your Hormones and Thriving with ADHD, is available now.The book explores female ADHD through a hormone-focused lens and includes guidance on gut health, sleep, exercise, nutrition, supplements, hormones, quizzes, and a 14-day reset.👉 https://drbrighten.com/adhd-and-women/📖 Pre-Order Take Back Your Thyroid + Get a Free BonusPre-order McCall McPherson’s new book, Take Back Your Thyroid, and choose one free bonus:🎓 Thyroid Empowered Course — a $399 value OR🩺 $150 off a new patient visit at Modern Thyroid Clinic👉 https://book.modernthyroidclinic.com/Connect with Dr. Jolene BrightenWebsite:https://drbrighten.com/📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpaThis episode is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease or replace individualized medical care.

What happens when you’re doing everything “right” for your health but still don’t feel like yourself?In this episode of Modern Thyroid & Wellness, McCall McPherson sits down with Nicole Peterson Doran, co-founder of PUR-FORM, Humanaut Health franchisee, and host of The Healthspan Collective Podcast, to talk about her decades-long journey through PCOS, hypothyroidism, inflammation, fertility concerns, long COVID, mast cell activation symptoms, and ultimately finding a more personalized approach to health.Nicole’s story began at just 16 years old when she rapidly gained weight, developed facial hair, experienced irregular periods, severe fatigue, and intense brain fog. She was diagnosed with PCOS and later hypothyroidism, but traditional treatment did little to resolve how she actually felt.That experience eventually led her into integrative medicine, whole-food nutrition, mindfulness, and the concept of bio-individuality—the idea that what works for one person may not work for another.In This Episode:Nicole’s experience with PCOS and hypothyroidism beginning in her teensWhy whole foods and lifestyle changes became a turning pointThe importance of bio-individuality in thyroid and hormone healthWhy there is no single “best” diet, medication, or wellness plan for everyoneHow Nicole prepared her body for pregnancy after years of PCOSThe supplements and lifestyle changes she personally used while preparing for fertilityHer long-COVID journey and mast cell activation symptomsHer personal experience with microdosed tirzepatideThymosin alpha-1 and larazotideWhy gut health became an important piece of her recoveryWhat EBO2 is and how PUR-FORM uses regenerative therapiesThe evolution from struggling patient to health entrepreneurFertility After PCOSNicole shares how being told as a teenager that getting pregnant could be difficult stayed with her for years.When she decided she wanted to conceive, she worked intentionally with her practitioners, focused on reducing inflammation, prioritized rest, limited travel, reduced alcohol and sugar, and used supplements including CoQ10 and fish oil.She became pregnant after approximately three months, while emphasizing that fertility is deeply individual and there is still an element of uncertainty that cannot always be controlled.Long COVID, MCAS & Finding New ToolsAfter COVID, Nicole experienced months of intense histamine-type symptoms, inflammation, brain fog, irritability, and weight changes.She describes working with practitioners and personally using several tools during her recovery, including microdosed tirzepatide, thymosin alpha-1, larazotide, nutritional support, and regenerative therapies. These are shared as Nicole’s personal experience and are not recommendations for every listener.About Nicole Peterson DoranNicole Peterson Doran is a co-founder of PUR-FORM, a comprehensive health optimization clinic in Boca Raton, Florida. She is also involved with Humanaut Health and hosts The Healthspan Collective Podcast.Her work focuses on personalized health, metabolic and hormonal wellness, regenerative medicine, and helping people find answers when conventional approaches have not been enough.Connect with NicoleInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/nicolejdoran/LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolejpeterson/PUR-FORM:https://purformhealth.com/Humanaut Health:https://humanauthealth.com/This episode is for educational purposes only and does not replace individualized medical advice.📖 Pre-Order Take Back Your Thyroid + Get a Free BonusPre-order McCall McPherson’s new book, Take Back Your Thyroid, and choose one free bonus:🎓 Thyroid Empowered Course, a $399 valueOR🩺 $150 off a new patient visit at Modern Thyroid ClinicPre-Order & Claim Your Free Bonus📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa

In this episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness, McCall McPherson, PA-C sits down with thyroid health expert and bestselling author Elle Russ to discuss why so many people with hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s continue experiencing symptoms even while taking thyroid medication—and what may be missing from conventional thyroid treatment.They break down the limitations of relying on TSH alone, the difference between “normal” thyroid labs and actually feeling well, and why thyroid treatment may need to consider the bigger picture, including T4, T3, reverse T3, medication type, dosage, timing, symptoms, and the individual patient.If you’ve ever been told your thyroid labs are normal while you still struggle with fatigue, brain fog, stubborn weight gain, mood changes, high cholesterol, fertility concerns, or other hypothyroid symptoms, this conversation will help you better understand the questions to ask about your thyroid care.📖 PRE-ORDER TAKE BACK YOUR THYROIDMcCall McPherson’s new book, Take Back Your Thyroid, is the science-based guide for people who are tired of being told everything looks “normal” when they still don’t feel well.Pre-order the hardcover and receive the Thyroid Empowered Course ($399 value) FREE with your pre-order.👉 Pre-order here:https://book.modernthyroidclinic.com/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=take_back_your_thyroid_preorder&utm_content=episode_62_elle_russ🔑 IN THIS EPISODE:Why you may still have hypothyroid symptoms while taking thyroid medicationWhy relying only on TSH can leave important information out of the picture“Normal” thyroid lab ranges vs. optimal thyroid functionT4, T3, reverse T3, and thyroid hormone conversionT4-only medication vs. combination thyroid therapyNatural desiccated thyroid vs. synthetic thyroid hormonesHow medication dose and timing can affect thyroid treatmentThe connection between thyroid dysfunction, fatigue, weight, mood, cholesterol, and fertilityCommon misconceptions about thyroid hormone replacementWhy understanding your own thyroid labs mattersHow to become a more informed advocate for your thyroid health👩‍⚕️ ABOUT ELLE RUSSElle Russ is a bestselling author, thyroid health educator, and advocate.After experiencing years of hypothyroidism, misdiagnosis, and unsuccessful treatment herself, she became dedicated to helping others better understand thyroid health and advocate for more individualized care.She is the author of The Paleo Thyroid Solution and creator of The Ultimate Thyroid Course.🔗 ELLE RUSS RESOURCESWebsite:https://elleruss.comFree Thyroid Guide:https://freethyroidguide.com🌐 ABOUT MODERN THYROID CLINICModern Thyroid Clinic specializes in helping patients understand and address persistent thyroid symptoms through individualized, comprehensive thyroid care.https://www.modernthyroidclinic.comSubscribe for weekly conversations about thyroid health, Hashimoto’s, hypothyroidism, hormones, metabolism, functional medicine, women’s health, and longevity.This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or replace individualized medical advice from your healthcare provider.#Hypothyroidism #Hashimotos #ThyroidHealth #ThyroidMedication #WomensHealth

Could a simple neck self-check help you notice a thyroid concern earlier?September is Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month, and in this episode of Modern Thyroid & Wellness, McCall McPherson sits down with Dr. Rashmi Roy, a fellowship-trained, board-certified endocrine surgeon specializing in thyroid and parathyroid disorders.Dr. Roy practices at the Hospital for Endocrine Surgery in Tampa and has performed thousands of thyroid and parathyroid procedures. Together, McCall and Dr. Roy have an important conversation about thyroid cancer risk, early detection, diagnosis, thyroid nodules, surgery, Hashimoto’s, and how patients can make more informed decisions about their thyroid health.They discuss how to perform a neck self-check, potential signs and risk factors to be aware of, and when thyroid ultrasound or additional evaluation may be appropriate.Dr. Roy also explains what patients should know before thyroid surgery, including common misconceptions, potential complications, and why the experience of your thyroid surgeon can matter when evaluating surgical options.The conversation also explores Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, its relationship to overall thyroid health and thyroid cancer risk, evolving approaches to treatment and post-surgical management, and why learning to ask better questions can help you become a stronger advocate for your own care.Whether you are navigating a thyroid nodule, Hashimoto’s, a possible thyroid cancer diagnosis, or an upcoming thyroid surgery, this episode offers practical information to help you approach the next step with greater clarity.🔑 In This Episode:How to perform a neck self-checkSigns, symptoms, and risk factors associated with thyroid cancerWhen thyroid ultrasound or additional screening may be consideredWhat patients should know about thyroid nodulesWhy surgeon experience matters when choosing a thyroid surgeonCommon myths about thyroid surgeryPotential risks and complications of thyroid surgeryHashimoto’s and its relationship to thyroid health and thyroid cancer riskNew and emerging approaches to treatment and post-surgical managementHow to advocate for yourself and ask better questions about your care👩‍⚕️ About Dr. Rashmi RoyDr. Rashmi Roy is a fellowship-trained, board-certified endocrine surgeon specializing in thyroid and parathyroid disorders. She practices at the Hospital for Endocrine Surgery in Tampa and has performed thousands of thyroid and parathyroid procedures.Her extensive surgical experience gives her a valuable perspective on thyroid cancer diagnosis, surgical decision-making, potential complications, and what patients should consider when selecting a thyroid surgeon.If you know someone navigating thyroid nodules, thyroid cancer, Hashimoto’s, or an upcoming thyroid surgery, share this episode with them during Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month.📘 Pre-Order Take Back Your ThyroidMcCall McPherson’s new book, Take Back Your Thyroid, is available for pre-order now.Pre-order and receive FREE access to the Thyroid Empowered Course — a $399 value.👉 Pre-order here:https://book.modernthyroidclinic.com/📲 Connect with McCall & Modern Thyroid ClinicMcCall McPherson, PA-CInstagram: @mccallmcphersonpa https://www.instagram.com/mccallmcphersonpa/Modern Thyroid ClinicInstagram: @modernthyroid https://www.instagram.com/modernthyroid/Learn more about Modern Thyroid Clinic:https://www.modernthyroidclinic.com/This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace individualized medical care.#ThyroidCancerAwarenessMonth #ThyroidCancer #ThyroidHealth #ThyroidCancerAwareness #ThyroidSurgery #ThyroidNodules #Hashimotos #HashimotosDisease #Hypothyroidism #ThyroidDisease #EndocrineHealth #WomensHealth #ModernThyroidClinic #McCallMcPherson #TakeBackYourThyroid

What if thyroid dysfunction isn’t always an isolated thyroid problem, but a signal that the cells throughout your body are under too much stress?In this episode of Modern Thyroid & Wellness, McCall McPherson sits down with Dr. Bill Rawls, physician, bestselling author, and co-founder of Vital Plan, for a fascinating conversation about cellular health, chronic illness, autophagy, microbes, stress, thyroid function, and the role herbs may play in supporting resilience.Dr. Rawls’ perspective grew out of his own health crisis. After years of intense work and inadequate sleep as an OB-GYN, his health deteriorated dramatically. He experienced fatigue, neurological symptoms, joint problems, cardiac symptoms, and eventually discovered evidence of Lyme disease. After conventional approaches failed to restore his health, his experience with herbal therapy led him into decades of research on chronic illness and cellular wellness.In This Episode, You’ll Learn:Why Dr. Rawls views cellular stress as a common thread in chronic illnessFive major categories that can stress our cellsWhy nutrition, environmental toxins, sleep, movement, and microbes matterWhat autophagy is and why cellular repair is essentialHow fasting, exercise, and stress can influence autophagyThe relationship between thyroid hormone and cellular metabolismWhy Dr. Rawls views thyroid dysfunction as a possible signal of broader cellular stressHis hypothesis about microbes, thyroid cells, and Hashimoto’sHow chronic psychological stress and cortisol affect cellular recoveryWhy whole foods, plant diversity, sleep, movement, and reducing toxic exposures form the foundation of his approachHow adaptogenic herbs may support cellular resilienceAshwagandha, rhodiola, reishi, cordyceps, Japanese knotweed, Chinese skullcap, dandelion, and milk thistleWhy herbs became central to Dr. Rawls’ approach to chronic illnessThe Five Drivers of Cellular StressDr. Rawls encourages listeners to zoom out from individual diagnoses and look at the health of the cells themselves.He organizes common sources of cellular stress into five broad areas: inadequate nutrition, toxic exposures, insufficient recovery and sleep, physical stress or inactivity, and microbes.His goal is not simply to suppress symptoms, but to create an internal environment that gives cells the resources and recovery time they need to function well.Autophagy: Your Cells’ Recycling and Repair SystemA major part of the conversation focuses on autophagy, the ongoing process cells use to recycle damaged components and maintain themselves.Dr. Rawls explains how fasting, movement, and other mild stressors may stimulate this process, while excessive stress can become counterproductive. He emphasizes balance between stress and recovery, rather than believing that more fasting or harder exercise is always better.What Does This Mean for Thyroid Health?Dr. Rawls describes thyroid hormone as an important metabolic signal that helps cells produce and use energy.His central argument is that when cells are chronically stressed, thyroid function may become part of that larger picture. Rather than viewing fatigue or thyroid dysfunction completely in isolation, he encourages looking at sleep, nutrition, stress, environmental exposures, movement, and overall cellular health.Connect with Dr. Bill Rawls🌿 Dr. Bill Rawls at RawlsMD📖 The Cellular Wellness Solution📖 Unlocking Lyme🌱 Explore Vital PlanRESTORE180™Dr. Rawls also shares RESTORE180, Vital Plan’s six-month program for people navigating complex chronic illness. The program progresses through stress regulation, gut and detoxification support, and concentrated botanical formulations.Learn More About RESTORE180📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa

With thousands of supplements promising more energy, better hair, improved thyroid function, and healthier aging, how do you know what your body actually needs?In this episode of Modern Thyroid & Wellness, McCall McPherson sits down with Melissa “Mel” Afflerbach, Clinical Director of Weight Loss & Supplement Programs, for a practical conversation about the supplements they use and recommend within their thyroid and metabolic health programs.They break down some of the most common concerns women with hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s experience—from persistent fatigue and low energy to hair loss—and explain why supplementation should support the bigger picture rather than replace investigating the root cause of a symptom.In This Episode, You’ll Learn:Why correcting thyroid function may not completely resolve fatigueHow adrenal and mitochondrial health relate to energy productionThe difference between stimulant energy and supporting cellular energyWhy thyroid dysfunction can contribute to hair shedding and changes in hair, skin, and nailsWhy ferritin and thyroid labs matter when investigating hair lossHow collagen, micronutrients, and antioxidants may support hair, skin, and nailsWhy myo-inositol and selenium are used in ThyroShield™Why testing and understanding the cause of a symptom still mattersHow McCall and her clinical team choose supplements for MDRN WellnessA sneak peek at what they are developing specifically for the thyroid communityMcCall also shares the deeply personal story behind the “Sol” found throughout the MDRN Health line. Her late brother, Solomon, had been working on the project before his unexpected passing, and the line now carries part of his legacy forward.Supplements Discussed in This EpisodeAdrena-Sol — adrenal and energy support Shop Adrena-SolMito-Sol — mitochondrial and cellular energy support Shop Mito-SolBeauty Glow Collagen — collagen support for hair, skin, and nails Shop Beauty Glow CollagenComplete Beauty — micronutrient support for hair, skin, and nails Shop Complete BeautyAstaxanthin Antioxidant — antioxidant and skin support Shop AstaxanthinThyroShield™ — myo-inositol + selenium thyroid support Shop ThyroShield™Shop MDRN WellnessThe MDRN Wellness store was created to make choosing supplements less overwhelming. Products are selected by McCall and the clinical team with the needs of people navigating thyroid dysfunction, hormone concerns, low energy, and related symptoms in mind.Shop All MDRN Wellness Supplements📖 Pre-Order Take Back Your Thyroid + Get a Free BonusPre-order McCall McPherson’s new book, Take Back Your Thyroid, and choose one free bonus:🎓 Thyroid Empowered Course, a $399 valueOR🩺 $150 off a new patient visit at Modern Thyroid ClinicPre-Order & Claim Your Free Bonus📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa