Operating Room to Root Cause: A Brain Surgeon Turned Neuroimmune Specialist’s Take on Genetics, Inflammation, and Truly Healing Your Brain

In this episode of What Happens in Vagus, Dr. Stephanie Canestraro sits down with Dr. Kendal Stewart, a board-certified neurotologist who made the remarkable transition from neurosurgery to functional medicine. Together, they unpack how understanding root causes, not just symptoms, can transform patient outcomes. Dr. Stewart dives deep into the lasting neurological effects of COVID, explaining how inflammation and immune activation can alter the brain and body. The two explore the critical connection between genetics, immune response, and hormonal balance, especially when it comes to mast cell activation in women.Listeners will also learn why turning off inflammation is key to recovery, how insulin resistance quietly impacts overall health, and the promising role of peptides and exosomes in immune and neurological repair. Dr. Stewart shares how personalized medicine, nutrigenomics, and genetic testing allow practitioners to tailor treatments that target inflammation, neurotransmitter imbalances, and gut dysfunction at their source. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of genetics, functional medicine, and cutting-edge approaches to healing from the inside out.More on Dr. Stewart: As a board-certified neurotologist with advanced training in both surgery and cellular science, Dr. Kendal Stewart has dedicated his life’s work to uncovering root causes and tailoring individualized solutions through genetic testing, functional medicine, and integrative care. His approach emphasizes prevention as much as treatment, using lifestyle, nutrition, and nervous system support as daily fuel for better brain function. A nationally recognized expert in neuroimmune disorders— including genetic abnormalities, chronic pain, ADD/ADHD and autism spectrum conditions, he provides practical tools to regulate stress, stabilize energy, boost mental clarity, and gain overall wellness. Dr. Stewart brings not only clinical authority but also an empowering, real-world lens—helping families, patients, and professionals better understand and improve the nervous system and immune function.Tune into Coffee with Dr. Stewart hereFollow him on Instagram hereKeywords: functional medicine, neurotology, inflammation, genetics, immune system, COVID-19, mast cell activation, insulin resistance, peptides, neurotransmitters, personalized medicine, plasmapheresis, exosomes, gut health, nutritionLet us know your thoughts on this episode here

In this episode of What Happens in Vagus, host Dr. Stephanie Canestraro sits down with Kayse Gehret, founder of Microdosing for Healing, to explore the fascinating world of microdosing psilocybin and its growing role in mental health, wellness, and alternative medicine. Together, they unpack the science behind psilocybin’s impact on the nervous system, including how it interacts with serotonin receptors in both the brain and gut to support emotional regulation and cognitive clarity. Kayse shares her personal healing journey and how microdosing helped her overcome seizures, reduce anxiety, and improve overall well-being without the “altered state” many people associate with psychedelics.Listeners will learn how microdosing can offer powerful support for conditions like depression, anxiety, and chronic illness, often leading to enhanced mood, deeper self-awareness, and improved mental resilience. The conversation also touches on the importance of quality sourcing, the evolving legal landscape, and how proper education is key to safe and effective practice. With more health professionals exploring the therapeutic potential of psilocybin, this episode offers an eye-opening look at how small doses can lead to profound healing and a deeper connection to self.More about Kayse Gehret: Kayse Gehret is the founder of Microdosing for Healing and creator of the first-of-its-kind Professional Microdosing Facilitator Program. With nearly 30 years in the healing arts and a global community in 30+ countries, Kayse helps individuals and practitioners harness the potential of microdosing to heal trauma, regulate the nervous system, and reconnect with their innate wisdom.Visit Microdosing for HealingLet us know your thoughts on this episode here

In this powerful episode of What Happens in Vagus, Dr. Stephanie Canestraro sits down with marketing strategist and Lyme warrior Allie Chandler to share their parallel journeys through chronic illness, mold exposure, POTS, and long COVID. Together, they uncover the hidden connections between stealth infections, environmental triggers, and dysautonomia symptoms many patients struggle to explain. Allie shares her decade-long experience with Lyme disease, mold toxicity, and functional medicine recovery—including the ups and downs of working high-stress jobs while healing—and reveals the holistic, functional, and sometimes unconventional protocols that moved the needle in her recovery, from limbic system retraining and EMDR to parasite cleansing and homeopathics. Dr. Steph discusses the importance of being non-dogmatic in healing, how the vagus nerve and lymphatic flow play a central role in chronic symptoms, and why open communication between patients and practitioners leads to breakthroughs. If you’ve ever felt dismissed by the conventional system, are navigating post-COVID or mold-related health challenges, or want to explore functional medicine tools for healing your heart, nervous system, and immune resilience, this episode offers both practical tips and hope. More on Allie:Allie Chandler, founder of Upsell Health (www.upsellhealth.com), is a leading marketing strategist specializing in functional medicine and wellness brands. After her own healing journey from chronic Lyme disease, mold toxicity, and parasites transformed her from bedbound to thriving, she discovered her passion for helping practitioners share their healing gifts with the world.With over 11 years of experience, Allie has held executive positions at industry giants including CellCore Biosciences, Microbiome Labs, and Novozymes OneHealth. She's scaled supplement companies to $60-100M in revenue, launched 21+ products, and generated $1.3M/month in Amazon sales.Holding a Master's in Writing from California College of the Arts and certification as a Lyme Specialist from Trinity College of Natural Health, Allie bridges the gap between scientific expertise and compelling storytelling. Her Practitioner Archetype Framework (upsellhealth.com/archetype) and Wellness Marketing Playbook help practitioners market authentically while building thriving, sustainable practices.Let us know your thoughts on this episode here

In this enlightening episode of What Happens in Vagus with Dr. Steph, we sit down with Kelly Bento, Founder of Soleil Well and a leading voice in the innovation of circadian wellness and red light therapy. Kelly shares her deeply personal journey from navigating a family medical crisis to creating safe, effective red light therapy tools designed to support mitochondrial health, recovery, and overall vitality. Together, Dr. Steph and Kelly explore why light is more than just what we see, it’s the software that runs the hardware of our bodies. They discuss how modern environments have stripped us of vital near-infrared exposure, how to choose a safe and effective red light device, and the powerful ways this therapy can be used for everything from chronic illness to athletic performance and nervous system regulation. Listeners will gain practical insights into daily light hygiene, tips for integrating natural and supplemental light exposure, and how to protect themselves from harmful artificial light and EMFs. Whether you’re an athlete, a health seeker, or simply curious about the future of wellness, this episode is packed with science, stories, and solutions that illuminate the path back to nature’s rhythms. Please check out Soleil Well here and use code VAGUSCLINIC10 for 10% off.Let us know your thoughts on this episode here

In this episode of What Happens in Vagus, host Dr. Stephanie Canestraro sits down with Cheyanne Welton, widely known as The Biohacking Nurse, to explore the cutting-edge world of peptides, microdosing GLP-1s, and strategies for stabilizing mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS). Cheyanne shares her personal health journey — from battling Lyme disease, mold toxicity, and autoimmune conditions to discovering how specific peptides transformed her recovery and resilience.Together, Dr. Stephanie and Cheyanne unpack the science and practical applications of BPC-157, CJC/Ipamorelin, Tirzepatide, TB-500, GHK-Cu, and more. They discuss how microdosing GLP-1 agonists can reduce inflammation, support hormone balance, improve metabolic health, and even calm microglial activation in the brain. Cheyanne also reveals incredible real-world stories, including how peptides helped her mother avoid hospitalizations, and why starting with the right peptide — and the right dose — is key to success.The conversation goes beyond theory, diving into post-COVID health challenges, POTS, histamine intolerance, spike protein protocols, and strategies for working with functional medicine practitioners to get results. Whether you’re an athlete, someone navigating chronic illness, or simply curious about biohacking for longevity, this episode offers actionable insights and inspiring success stories from the frontlines of functional medicine and regenerative health.Cheyanne's Bio: Cheyanne is a registered nurse and functional wellness expert who became The Biohacking Nurse after facing years of complex, unresolved health challenges that left even doctors stumped. Determined to heal, she dove deep into functional medicine, biohacking, and root-cause approaches—becoming her own best case study. Today, she helps others navigate their own healing journeys using the tools, strategies, and cutting-edge therapies that changed her life—from peptides and detox to lifestyle upgrades and beyond. She calls Idaho home and loves the mountains and cold plunging in the lakes. When she is not studying health, you can find her gardening barefoot and enjoying all things homemaking. Find The Biohacking Nurse on Instagram hereLet us know your thoughts on this episode here

In this episode of What Happens in Vagus, Dr. Stephanie Canestraro sits down with Farah Zipursky for a powerful and deeply personal conversation about chronic illness, healing, and the importance of taking a holistic approach to wellness. Farah shares how her health journey began while living in Australia, where a growing interest in nutrition and whole foods led her down the path of functional medicine. Struggling with Bell’s Palsy and later receiving a Lyme disease diagnosis, Farah was forced to look deeper into the root causes of her chronic symptoms. Her exploration into gut health, nervous system regulation, and detoxification became the foundation of her healing process. Together, Dr. Steph and Farah dive into the importance of lymphatic health, regular bowel movements, and the role of environmental toxins in chronic disease. They touch on the benefits and limitations of treatments like stem cell therapy and hyperthermia, and how integrating conventional and functional medicine can lead to more effective outcomes. This episode also highlights the often invisible struggles of chronic illness and the vital role patient empowerment plays in recovery. Farah emphasizes that healing is a slow, intentional process that requires patience, persistence, and support, and that understanding your body is one of the most powerful tools on the journey to wellness. Let us know your thoughts on this episode here

In this powerful and eye-opening episode of What Happens in Vagus, Dr. Steph sits down with leading EMF expert Mike Camilleri, CEO & President of Safe Guard Solutions, to unpack the often-overlooked dangers of electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure, especially in the era of 5G technology. Together, they shed light on how modern technology, while convenient, may be quietly impacting our health in significant ways. From the unique risks posed by 5G frequencies to the heightened sensitivity of children and other vulnerable individuals, this conversation offers essential insights. Dr. Steph and Mike also dive into practical, actionable ways to reduce EMF exposure in the home, like hardwiring devices and using EMF shielding solutions, as well as the importance of clean indoor air and proactive mold management. They emphasize how mold exposure can intensify EMF-related health issues, and highlight the benefits of grounding practices, environmental testing, and working with professionals to create safer living environments. Whether you're already EMF-aware or just starting your journey, this episode is a crucial reminder of the importance of protecting your body in today’s tech-saturated world. More on Mike Camilleri:Mike Camilleri is the CEO and President of Safe Guard Solutions, a company recognized for excellence with the 2024 New Business of the Year award and the 2025 Canadian Choice Award in Health. As a Building Biologist, House Doctor, and Home Inspector, Mike specializes in EMFs, mold, indoor air quality, and water filtration systems. With a passion for healthier living environments, he leads Safe Guard Solutions in setting new standards for home wellness and environmental safety.Check out Safe Guard Solutions here.  Use code VAGUS10 to save. Follow Dr. Steph on Instagram here.Follow Vagus Clinic on Instagram here.Let us know your thoughts on this episode hereLet us know your thoughts on this episode here

 In this insightful solo episode of What Happens in Vagus, Dr. Steph dives into the emerging concept of Chronic Toxic Syndrome, a condition gaining recognition for its wide-ranging and often unexplained symptoms. Dr. Steph unpacks the complex contributors to this syndrome, including chronic low-grade infections, mold exposure, and EMF sensitivity, all of which can silently undermine health. She highlights the powerful role that frequencies and lymphatic health play in overall wellness and detoxification. With a growing number of people feeling unwell without clear diagnoses, Dr. Steph outlines practical, science-backed strategies to support healing, ranging from lymphatic drainage to detox methods and the use of peptides for immune modulation. If you’ve been struggling with vague symptoms, chronic fatigue, or a general sense that something is “off,” this episode is a must-listen. Dr. Steph encourages listeners to tune in, stay curious, and reach out for help when needed—because healing is possible, and you're not alone in your journey. Follow Dr. Steph on Instagram here.Follow Vagus Clinic on Instagram here.Let us know your thoughts on this episode here

In this episode of What Happens in Vagus, Dr. Steph sits down with Jason Applewhite, co-founder of Bimini Hydrotherapy, to explore the cutting-edge world of oxygen nanobubbles and their powerful role in health and wellness. Jason breaks down how Bimini’s technology allows the body to absorb oxygen transdermally—through the skin—while soaking in water, offering a non-invasive approach to boosting oxygen levels in the body. They discuss how professional athletes are seeing enhanced performance and faster recovery with regular use, and how this therapy can benefit sleep, detoxification, and even support chronic conditions. With a strong emphasis on accessibility, Bimini is bringing this once-elite therapy into the home and is already developing portable options for greater ease and convenience. Dr. Steph and Jason also address important safety measures to maintain water quality and highlight oxygen’s crucial role in brain function and overall vitality. Whether you're an elite athlete or simply looking to enhance your daily well-being, this conversation offers a fascinating look at the future of hydrotherapy.About Jason: Jason Applewhite is the Co-Founder of Bimini Hydrotherapy Inc., a company dedicated to pioneering advanced wellness solutions through cutting-edge hydrotherapy technologies. With a strong foundation in Biology from Texas A&M University, Jason’s expertise in product development and additive manufacturing, skills he honed over 15 years of experience in the tech and wellness sectors.Prior to co-founding Bimini, Jason leveraged his deep understanding of 3D Printing/additive manufacturing to invent and patent nanobubble generators, a groundbreaking technology aimed at improving water treatment processes. His nanobubble systems are now used in a variety of industries to enhance water quality, boost efficiency, and promote sustainability.Jason’s passion for health and innovation led him to apply his nanobubble technology to human wellness, ultimately co-founding Bimini Hydrotherapy. Through the company's proprietary NanoJet Oxygen Perfusion technology, Jason is helping to revolutionize the way we oxygenate the body, driving faster recovery, increased energy, and enhanced vitality. His unique blend of scientific expertise and entrepreneurial vision is shaping the future of wellness and hydrotherapy.Check out Bimini's website hereCheck out their instagram hereFollow Dr. Steph on Instagram here.Follow Vagus Clinic on Instagram here.Let us know your thoughts on this episode here

In this episode of What Happens in Vagus, host Dr. Stephanie Canestraro sits down with Cathy Eason, Clinical Director at Berkeley Life, to explore the often-overlooked yet vital molecule: nitric oxide. Cathy shares her fascinating journey from massage therapy to nutritional therapy, a path sparked by a personal mission to address chronic inflammation and promote deeper healing. Together, they unpack the critical role nitric oxide plays in cardiovascular health, blood pressure regulation, and athletic performance—and how we can naturally boost its production through dietary nitrates found in foods like beets and spinach.Dr. Steph and Cathy dive deep into the science behind nitric oxide, explaining how the body produces it through both enzyme-driven pathways and nitrate-rich foods. They highlight the importance of the oral microbiome in this process, discussing how proper oral health—including something as simple as chewing gum—can help convert dietary nitrates into usable nitric oxide. Cathy shares real-life success stories of patients who have seen remarkable improvements in energy, circulation, and blood pressure thanks to nitric oxide supplementation.The conversation also touches on broader themes in functional medicine, such as the impact of EMF exposure, the role of oxalates and soil quality in nutrition, and how a balanced, whole-foods-based diet can support overall wellness. Cathy and Dr. Steph emphasize that effective health optimization requires more than just supplements—it involves understanding nutrient interactions, maintaining gut and oral health, and tuning into the psychological and emotional aspects of healing. Whether you're an athlete looking to enhance performance or someone navigating chronic health challenges, this episode offers empowering insights into how nitric oxide and nutrition can support your journey to better health.More on Cathy: Cathy Eason, MS is a Board Certified Holistic Nutritionist and Functional Nutritional Therapy Practitioner with 20+ years of clinical experience in functional medicine-based nutrition practice. In her role as Clinical Education Director at Berkeley Life, Cathy enjoys breaking down the science of how the body's 'miracle molecule', Nitric Oxide, plays a role in signaling every body system -- starting with the vagus nerve.  Shop the product here.Follow Dr. Steph on Instagram here.Follow Vagus Clinic on Instagram here.Let us know your thoughts on this episode here