Radio Health Journal

Each week, Radio Health Journal breaks down important news in medicine, science and technology with the help of world-renowned experts. Our three weekly segments will help guide you to a happier, healthier life – with some fun facts to share at dinner parties. Can magic mushrooms cure your depression? Have we outrun natural selection? Hosted by Elizabeth Westfield, Greg Johnson and Maayan Voss de Bettancourt and produced by Kristen Farrah and Amirah Zaveri. New shows posted each Sunday by 5 a.m. EST. Subscribe, listen, and rate. If you’re looking for older episodes, you can find our entire segment catalog on our website radiohealthjournal.org. Also, check out the latest on Facebook and Instagram @radiohealthjournal and on X @RadioHealthJrnl.

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Episodes

• My Brothers’ Keeper: The Experience Of A Living Donor

  Sunday, April 6, 2025

  14 minutes

  Being a living donor is a major decision, but one that can save a life. For Mike O’Gorman, it was a no-brainer to help his brother who needed a new kidney. However, there were various obstacles he never anticipated. Our guests explain the donation process and the physical and mental challenges many face. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/my-brothers-keeper-the-experience-of-a-living-donor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• Ultra-Processed Foods Are Killing You -- Here’s The Cure

  Sunday, April 6, 2025

  9 minutes

  Ultra-processed foods have become a major part of the average American diet. Unfortunately, these products have been linked to various health concerns and don’t include many of the nutrients we need. Our experts explain how you can balance your diet and stay healthy in an increasingly unhealthy world. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/ultra-processed-foods-are-killing-you-heres-the-cure Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• Medical Notes: The Best Age To Prevent Brain Decline, Lead Is Leaching Into Our Air, And How Hotter Days Reduce Birth Rates

  Sunday, April 6, 2025

  3 minutes

  Polluted air is killing our children. Microplastics may be worsening antibiotic resistance. It’s not too late to improve your brain health. Do hotter days reduce birthrates? Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/medical-notes-the-best-age-to-prevent-brain-decline-lead-is-leaching-into-our-air-and-how-hotter-days-reduce-birth-rates Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• Medical Notes: Why You Should Date Someone Who’s Nice, The Biological Cause Of Infertility, And Why Spring Goals Are More Successful

  Wednesday, April 2, 2025

  3 minutes

  It may be time to re-start your New Years resolution. The biological factor that’s making you infertile. Do opposites attract? Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/medical-notes-why-you-should-date-someone-whos-nice-the-biological-cause-of-infertility-and-why-spring-goals-are-more-successful Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• “The Woman Just Has To Suffer”: Changing How Medicine Views Women’s Health

  Sunday, March 30, 2025

  9 minutes

  Cervical cancer detection often involves the use of a speculum. However, not only is this device often uncomfortable, it’s also a main reason for why women with disabilities skip the test altogether. Dr. Diane Harper proposes a new, FDA-approved screening method that’s proven to reduce cases of cervical cancer more than standard practices. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/the-woman-just-has-to-suffer-changing-how-medicine-views-womens-health Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• Leaving The Cult: How To Rebuild Your Life After Living A Lie

  Sunday, March 30, 2025

  14 minutes

  High demand, high control groups can be both positive and negative, and describe many different populations from the military to infamous cults. Experiencing the negative side of these groups can lead to trauma and abuse. Our experts discuss their time in high demand, high control groups and how they were able to heal from these experiences. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/leaving-the-cult-how-to-rebuild-your-life-after-living-a-lie Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• Medical Notes: How AI Is Preventing Heart Attacks, Why Alzheimer’s Research Needs More Patient Diversity; And Why Hot Weather Leads To More ER Visits

  Wednesday, March 26, 2025

  3 minutes

  Artificial intelligence can predict fatal heart attacks. A lack of patient diversity in Alzheimer's research threatens accurate diagnosing in people of color. As the temperature rises, so do emergency room visits. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/medical-notes-how-ai-is-preventing-heart-attacks-why-alzheimers-research-needs-more-patient-diversity-and-why-hot-weather-leads-to-more-er-visit Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• Pulses And Profits: An Insider Look Into The Business Of Healthcare

  Sunday, March 23, 2025

  13 minutes

  The healthcare industry may seem complex, but our experts this week are pulling back the curtain and revealing how innovations truly come to life. They discuss how the goals of this trade have evolved, what it takes to be a successful entrepreneur, and how consumers will be playing a bigger role in product development. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/pulses-and-profits-an-insider-look-into-the-business-of-healthcare Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• The Pap Smear: Why Is America Holding On To This Outdated Practice?

  Sunday, March 23, 2025

  10 minutes

  The speculum has been used for centuries, but unlike other ancient medical tools, it hasn’t had any major updates to its design. However, this instrument may soon be unnecessary for many women with the new approval of self-administered HPV tests. Dr. Diane Harper explains why this is a major step forward for women’s healthcare and the importance of female patients advocating for more effective and comfortable procedures from their providers. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/the-pap-smear-why-is-america-holding-on-to-this-outdated-practice Learn more about your ad choices. Visit m...

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• Medical Notes: Magic Mushrooms Can Relieve Depression, How To Avoid Wearing A Mosquito’s Favorite Color, And Why Earth’S Coasts Are Disappearing

  Wednesday, March 19, 2025

  3 minutes

  How are psychedelic mushrooms related to mental health? Earth’s natural coasts are disappearing. Do mosquitoes care about your fashion sense? Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/magic-mushrooms-can-relieve-depression-how-to-avoid-wearing-a-mosquitos-favorite-color-and-why-earths-coasts-are-disappearing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• Space Medicine Pt. 2: How A Mission To Mars Helps Patients On Earth

  Sunday, March 16, 2025

  9 minutes

  Last week we discussed the dangers astronauts face when going on missions. This week, Dr. Joshua Ong, a space medicine researcher, explains the cutting-edge technology that’s being used to hopefully save astronauts’ eyesight, and how these advancements will help underserved patients on Earth. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/space-medicine-pt-2-how-a-mission-to-mars-helps-patients-on-earth Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• Everything You Need To Know Before Getting Lasik Eye Surgery

  Sunday, March 16, 2025

  13 minutes

  Lasik eye surgery has been life-changing for millions. However, there are a select few who have been left irreversibly disabled by the procedure. Our experts describe the qualities of a good Lasik candidate, the very real risks that come with the surgery, and an alternative option for those unable to get Lasik. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/everything-you-need-to-know-before-getting-lasik-eye-surgery Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• Medical Notes: Smoking Weed May Be Causing Your Cavities, A Bacteria That Eats Plastic, And Why Falling In Love Is Good For A Woman’s Health

  Wednesday, March 12, 2025

  3 minutes

  Bacteria could be a key player in the fight against plastic. As more states legalize cannabis, you should know how it affects your health. Does gender affect how we complete our goals? Should women date more for the good of their health? Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/medical-notes-smoking-weed-may-be-causing-your-cavities-a-bacteria-that-eats-plastic-and-why-falling-in-love-is-good-for-a-womans-health Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• “There Must Be Something Wrong With Women”: The Dangers Of Medical Ignorance

  Sunday, March 9, 2025

  13 minutes

  Despite all the progress made for women’s rights, the medical field continues to lag behind when it comes to female research. Because of this, half of the population is left in the dark about how to properly care for their bodies and the dangers they’re at risk for. Our experts explain the importance of researching women’s health. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/there-must-be-something-wrong-with-women-the-dangers-of-medical-ignorance Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• How Space Medicine Could Save You From Going Blind Down Here On Earth

  Sunday, March 9, 2025

  9 minutes

  The breaking-edge technology NASA’s creating for space travel has positively impacted so many lives back on earth. Dr. Joshua Ong, a space medicine researcher, is now hoping to add to that beneficial list with his work on improving astronauts’ eyesight. He explains the conditions they’re most at risk for and how finding a solution for space travel will help increase access to eye treatments on earth. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/how-space-medicine-could-save-you-from-going-blind-down-here-on-earth Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• Medical Notes: Revealing The Chattier Gender, The Hidden Dangers Of Your Hair Salon, And The Difference Between A Sore Throat And Strep

  Wednesday, March 5, 2025

  3 minutes

  Your monthly haircut may be more dangerous than you think. Is one gender chattier than the other? How to tell if your sore throat is something more serious. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/medical-notes-revealing-the-chattier-gender-the-hidden-dangers-of-your-hair-salon-and-the-difference-between-a-sore-throat-and-strep Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• How To Use Fasting In The Fight Against Cancer

  Sunday, March 2, 2025

  11 minutes

  Research is showing how useful a fasting-mimicking diet can be in fighting cancer. It not only weakens the tumor, but it also makes chemotherapy and immunotherapy less toxic for the patient. Our expert breaks down the benefits of FMD and how it enhances current cancer treatments. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/how-to-use-fasting-in-the-fight-against-cancer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• Why Genetic Testing Should Be Part Of Your Pregnancy Plan

  Sunday, March 2, 2025

  12 minutes

  Prenatal genetic testing can make parents aware of any anomalies or genetic diseases their unborn child has. Knowing this information before the baby is born can give parents a head start on understanding their child’s condition and finding proper resources. Our experts explain the role of genetic counseling and why it’s an important tool for parents. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/why-genetic-testing-should-be-part-of-your-pregnancy-plan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• Medical Notes: The Hidden Message Behind Your Tears, Why Vacation Is Necessary For Your Health, And Using Vr To Fight Anxiety

  Wednesday, February 26, 2025

  3 minutes

  Can more screen time ease anxiety? Is crying a sign of more than just sadness? Have you been feeling out of sorts? Yes, vacation is necessary for your health. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/medical-notes-the-hidden-message-behind-your-tears-why-vacation-is-necessary-for-your-health-and-using-vr-to-fight-anxiety Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• How A Fungal Pandemic Could Create Real-Life Zombies

  Sunday, February 23, 2025

  10 minutes

  Our body temperature is currently too hot for fungus to thrive in – which is why we don’t often have to worry about a serious fungal infection. However, global warming is forcing fungi to evolve to withstand hotter temperatures, which could be bad news for humanity. Dr. Arturo Casadevall explains what a future fungal pandemic might look like. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/how-a-fungal-pandemic-could-create-real-life-zombies Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• The Secret To Successful Aging: Outdoor-Based Activities To Keep You Young

  Sunday, February 23, 2025

  12 minutes

  Outdoor activities have been shown to be an important part of disease prevention and successful aging. And though there are some obstacles for older adults, there are ways to adjust the activities to fit all skill levels. Our experts explain the benefits to prioritizing outdoor-based interventions and group activities. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/the-secret-to-successful-aging-outdoor-based-activities-to-keep-you-young Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• Medical Notes: Why Hopeful Fathers Should Live In Cold Weather, How Dialysis Is Improving Access To Clean Water, And The Dangers Of Using A Smartwatch

  Wednesday, February 19, 2025

  3 minutes

  How can you tell if your sniffles are just allergies or something worse? Should men be living in colder climates? The medical field is helping to increase access to clean water. Your smart watch may not be as great for your health as you thought. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/medical-notes-why-hopeful-fathers-should-live-in-cold-weather-how-dialysis-is-improving-access-to-clean-water-and-the-dangers-of-using-a-smartwatch Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• The Hydrocodone Hyperbole: The Best Drug For Pain Isn’t Always An Opioid

  Sunday, February 16, 2025

  9 minutes

  Even though opioids are highly addictive, they continue to be prescribed because they’re thought of as the best option for pain management. However, that’s not always the case. Dr. Cecile Feldman explains new research that shows how over-the-counter medication is more effective in some cases – and how this revelation is changing prescribing practices in dentistry. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/the-hydrocodone-hyperbole-the-best-drug-for-pain-isnt-always-an-opioid Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• Trust Your Gut: How To Heal Your Gut Microbiome

  Sunday, February 16, 2025

  13 minutes

  Are you chronically bloated, feeling weighed down, or haven’t been as energetic lately? It’s possible that it’s a product of neglecting your gut microbiome. Dr. Robynne Chutkan explains the important role our microbiome plays in our physical and mental health -- and how you can heal your gut to put yourself back on track. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/trust-your-gut-how-to-heal-your-gut-microbiom Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• Medical Notes: Why Being Cynical Is Bad For Your Health, How Fungi May Soon Take Over, And Increasing The Effectiveness Of Chemotherapy

  Wednesday, February 12, 2025

  3 minutes

  Is another global pandemic on the horizon? Antibodies aren’t just a protection from disease. Chemotherapy is tough on the body, but magnets could help. Being cynical is bad for your health. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/medical-notes-why-being-cynical-is-bad-for-your-health-how-fungi-may-soon-take-over-and-increasing-the-effectiveness-of-chemotherapy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• Digital Therapy: Mental Health Apps May Be Selling Your Personal Data

  Sunday, February 9, 2025

  9 minutes

  As mental health becomes a bigger topic of conversation in society, it makes sense that an entire digital industry has been built around it. Online therapy has become the new normal for many Americans, but such a saturated market means that consumers can’t trust every product. Dr. Stephanie Collier explains the value of digital therapy programs and reveals how to choose the safest, most effective option. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/digital-therapy-mental-health-apps-may-be-selling-your-personal-dat Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• Soda Science: How Coca-Cola Influenced Obesity Research

  Sunday, February 9, 2025

  13 minutes

  Since funding is necessary for scientific research, it’s not uncommon for private companies to be financially involved in studies. However, Susan Greenhalgh breaks down Coca-Cola’s intimate relationship with nutrition research, revealing the need for more third-party oversight in this area. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/soda-science-how-coca-cola-influenced-obesity-research Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• Medical Notes: The Drug That Outperforms Opioids For Pain Management, The Hidden Dangers Of Kidney Disease, And Why Less Daylight May Be Better For Our Health

  Wednesday, February 5, 2025

  3 minutes

  Your bad mood is probably connected to your sleep. Need surgery? Over-the-counter medication may be your best option for pain management. The hidden risks of kidney disease. Shortened winter days may be better for our health. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/medical-notes-the-drug-that-outperforms-opioids-for-pain-management-the-hidden-dangers-of-kidney-disease-and-why-less-daylight-may-be-better-for-our-health Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• How Flint’s Water Crisis Revealed The Underbelly Of Water Politics

  Sunday, February 2, 2025

  11 minutes

  Though lead pipes were outlawed in 1986, the EPA estimates that more than nine million lead service lines still distribute water across America. And though many people believe treatment plants are enough to keep our drinking water safe, the Flint water crisis proved this very wrong. Sara Hughes explains how this city’s contamination in 2014 has changed the visibility of water politics in America for the better. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/how-flints-water-crisis-revealed-the-underbelly-of-water-politics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• Healthy Selfishness: The Boundaries You Should Have For Your Health

  Sunday, February 2, 2025

  11 minutes

  Being selfish is often seen as a bad characteristic, but our experts say it may be one of the most compassionate things you can do for yourself. Boundary setting is one example of a tool that can be utilized to improve your overall life. This week, our experts challenge everything you thought you knew about being selfish.  Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/healthy-selfishness-the-boundaries-you-should-have-for-your-health Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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