Podcast
Join the Docs
Hosted by Join the Docs · EN
"Health is more than the absence of disease, so we tackle topics impacting all aspects of your health and wellbeing. Because we trained as doctors together, are dear friends and believe laughter truly is the best medicine, we find joy discussing the profession we love. It’s like being privy to a conversation that you might otherwise never hear; what goes on "behind the curtains,” while providing clarity and insights to complex issues."
Hosted by Professor Jonathan Sackier, a surgeon and Doctor Nigel Guest, a family practitioner, with their 50 years of joint experience in the medical industry they bring you Join the Docs. A blend of fun and facts, empowering our listeners with news they can use to seek the best healthcare.
After training in surgery in Britain, Jonathan was recruited to America to help introduce laparoscopic “keyhole” surgery. He loved caring for patients, teaching, conducting research and sharing his passion for medicine. Patients’ needs inspired Jonathan to help develop several medical inventions, including the first surgical robot and various devices, diagnostics, drugs and services. Always valuing Nigel’s perspectives, their shared love of science and humour, and driven by the social constraints imposed by Covid, Join the Docs was born over many late-night video calls and virtual cocktail hours!
Nigel grew up in Britain’s ‘Black Country’ zealously to his bizarre accent. A Liverpool University educated doctor, he stoically remained in the country’s northwest building a large National Health Service (NHS) General Practice. Motivated by improving patient care, Nigel increasingly became involved with healthcare management, ultimately becoming CEO of a successful and innovative NHS Commissioning Group, overseeing a £350m budget and leading large-scale cancer care and mental health innovations.
Driven by a joint love of education and communication, and believing in the therapeutic power of humour, Nigel and Jonathan have come together at Join the Docs to share experiences, educate and hopefully amuse.
Stay happy, stay healthy, as it beats the alternative. You spend a long time dead.
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10episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Neurological Knock-Knock – Who’s There? Movement Disorders!
Dec 10, 202401:01:32Tap to summarizeIn this enlightening episode of Join the Docs, the ever-curious Professor Jonathan Sackier and the delightfully witty Doctor Nigel Guest dive deep into the gray matter (pun absolutely intended) to untangle the mysteries of the human brain and its trusty sidekick, the nervous system. Who are the guests this week? Joining this week is the insightful Ione Georgakis, an Occupational Therapist and Advocacy Manager for Tourette Action and Dr. Ed Palmer, a fellow Tourette expert and psychiatrist.. Ione and Ed bring a synapse-worthy amount of knowledge and compassion to the discussion, shedding light on the challenges faced by individuals with Tourette syndrome and other movement disorders. Their expertise in therapeutic interventions and advocacy adds a crucial nerve center to the conversation, underscoring the importance of holistic care and patient empowerment. How does the brain orchestrate movement? The dynamic trio pirouettes straight into the topic, exploring the brain’s role as the maestro of movement. Tremors are likened to an over-caffeinated squirrel, while rigidity gets compared to the Tin Man pre-lube job, adding just the right amount of levity to complex concepts. When Parkinson's disease is discussed, The Docs examine it with a careful and informed approach. Diagnosing the condition, they explain, requires a balance of scientific knowledge and clinical judgment, as the symptoms can be subtle and vary from person to person. Treatment options are diverse, including medications and deep brain stimulation, a procedure that involves implanting a device to help regulate brain activity and manage symptoms more effectively. The laughs don’t come at the expense of insight. Stories pepper the episode like synaptic sparks. Ione and Ed add their own heartwarming anecdotes of resilience and triumph, illustrating how tailored therapies and supportive communities provide vital nourishment for those living with movement disorders.What will you take away from this episode? By the episode’s end, listeners will have a newfound appreciation for the pun-damental intricacies of the human brain, a smile on their faces, and perhaps an irresistible urge to break out into dance—just remember to thank your motor neurons! —--DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed on Join the Docs are those of Dr. Nigel Guest, Jonathan Sackier and other people on our show. Be aware that Join the Docs is not intended to be medical advice, it is for information and entertainment purposes only - please, always take any health concerns to your doctor or other healthcare provider. We respect the privacy of patients and never identify individuals unless they have consented. We may change details, dates, place names and so on to protect privacy. Listening to Join the Docs, interacting on our social media, emailing or writing to us does not establish a doctor patient relationship.To Contact Us: For a deeper dive on this episode’s issue, merchandise and exclusive content, head to www.jointhedocs.comFollow us on youtube.com/JoinTheDocs Follow us on instgram.com/JoinTheDocsFollow us on tiktok.com/JoinTheDocsFollow us on: facebok.com/JoinTheDocsFollow us on: x.com/JoinTheDocs
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Breast Cancer Navigation - Awareness, Prevention, and Hope
Nov 26, 202400:59:42Tap to summarizeWhy is breast cancer awareness such a critical topic for everyone? In this engaging pulls-no-punches podcast episode, our charismatic duo—Doctor Nigel Guest and Professor Jonathan Sackier are joined by Dr Liz O'Riordan as they unravel the mysteries of breast cancer awareness, screening, and treatment. You see, Liz is not just a breast surgeon, she is also a breast cancer patient and has used her knowledge, sense of humour and desire to educate to get the message out.Who knew our two Docs could be so sensitive and with Liz’s help, find joy in surviving all that life throws at us?, Dr Guest leads the charge ande emphasises the universal importance of regular check-ups for all genders, sharing a cheeky story from his medical training days, What makes the science of breast health a treasure chest? Professor Sackier brings his expertise with a playful flair. He lifts the lid on breast anatomy, types of cancer, and historical treatments that will make you grateful for modern medicine. How does personal experience add a human touch to the discussion? Dr O'Riordan takes the lead role in sharing her deeply personal journey with breast cancer, tackling myths and risk factors with her signature style. Her candid reflections and insights lift the veil on what it’s really like to navigate the healthcare system, blending empathy with uplifting humour.Why is early detection and lifestyle awareness a breast investment in your health? The trio lays it on thick as they champion the importance of early detection, healthy habits, and the emotional toll of cancer. With a firm grasp on the balance between seriousness and fun, they wrap up with a spirited chest-thumping call to action, urging listeners to take charge of their health with as much enthusiasm as a surprise dance party. Who knew a podcast on breast cancer could leave you feeling so inspired?—--DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed on Join the Docs are those of Dr. Nigel Guest, Jonathan Sackier and other people on our show. Be aware that Join the Docs is not intended to be medical advice, it is for information and entertainment purposes only - please, always take any health concerns to your doctor or other healthcare provider. We respect the privacy of patients and never identify individuals unless they have consented. We may change details, dates, place names and so on to protect privacy. Listening to Join the Docs, interacting on our social media, emailing or writing to us does not establish a doctor patient relationship.To Contact Us: For a deeper dive on this episode’s issue, merchandise and exclusive content, head to www.jointhedocs.comFollow us on youtube.com/JoinTheDocs Follow us on instgram.com/JoinTheDocsFollow us on tiktok.com/JoinTheDocsFollow us on: facebok.com/JoinTheDocsFollow us on: x.com/JoinTheDocs
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The Doctor Is Live-In – Prescribing Laughter At Cheerful Earful
Nov 12, 202401:02:22Tap to summarizeIn this special live episode of Join the Docs, recorded amid the lively buzz of the Cheerful Ear Podcast Festival, our beloved medical duo—surgeon and pun enthusiast Jonathan Sackier, and GP-turned-stand-up-comedian Nigel Guest—step out from behind the mic and onto the stage to bring their comedic clinic to a live audience. It’s not your typical episode; instead of their usual studio setup, Jonathan and Nigel dive into the quirks and curiosities of healthcare with real-time reactions, laughter, and applause from an audience eager to join in the fun.As they entertain a crowd brimming with podcast fans, The Docs revisit some of their most memorable moments from previous episodes, recounting tales that left listeners in stitches (metaphorically speaking). From the bizarre patient who thought a hard boiled egg belonged where the sun don’t shine to the lady who was convinced she was a poached egg, these fan-favourite stories come to life in front of an audience who’s hanging on every word.The festival atmosphere brings a new energy to the show as Jonathan and Nigel invite the audience to share their own medical misadventures, guess the most obscure diagnoses, and laugh along in real time. It’s a fitting setting for The Docs who firmly believe that laughter is the best medicine—whether it’s curing a rough day or simply lightening the load of medical life. So, grab a seat and get ready to join in on the laughter, camaraderie, and quick-witted exchanges that make Join the Docs a crowd favourite. This episode, recorded live, is bound to deliver a generous dose of humour with just the right prescription for fun—no copay required.—--DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed on Join the Docs are those of Dr. Nigel Guest, Jonathan Sackier and other people on our show. Be aware that Join the Docs is not intended to be medical advice, it is for information and entertainment purposes only - please, always take any health concerns to your doctor or other healthcare provider. We respect the privacy of patients and never identify individuals unless they have consented. We may change details, dates, place names and so on to protect privacy. Listening to Join the Docs, interacting on our social media, emailing or writing to us does not establish a doctor patient relationship.To Contact Us: For a deeper dive on this episode’s issue, merchandise and exclusive content, head to www.jointhedocs.comFollow us on youtube.com/JoinTheDocs Follow us on instgram.com/JoinTheDocsFollow us on tiktok.com/JoinTheDocsFollow us on: facebok.com/JoinTheDocsFollow us on: x.com/JoinTheDocs
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Mind Games – Untangling the Brain’s Secrets with the Docs
Oct 29, 202400:57:24Tap to summarizeIn this captivating and thoroughly engaging episode of Join the Docs, our dynamic duo, Professor Jonathan Sackier and Doctor Nigel Guest, embark on an enlightening and comprehensive journey into the intricate labyrinth of the human brain and nervous system. They unravel the tangled web of neurological diseases, with a special spotlight on multiple sclerosis (MS). This isn't just a superficial overview; The Docs delve deep into the brain's complex structure, its multifaceted functions, and the critical importance of the nervous system's intricate wiring. Imagine it as a high-stakes game of Operation, but with fewer buzzers and a lot more brain power. The Docs also explore the fascinating realms of cranial nerves and proprioception, which might sound like a fancy term for knowing where your nose is without looking, but it's so much more. With The Docs guiding the way, you’ll get an inside look into why your body ‘nose’ what it’s doing - even when you don’t!Who better to shed light on the rollercoaster ride of living with MS than Montel Williams? He rolls in to share his deeply personal journey, complete with all the twists, turns, and loop-de-loops that come with it. The Docs dive into his initial symptoms, which were more confusing than a plot twist in a soap opera, and the myriad challenges he faced in getting a diagnosis. Montel’s story is not just about the physical and emotional struggles but also about the resilience and determination required to navigate life with MS. He also passionately advocates for cannabis as a treatment for neuropathic pain, making a compelling case that might just leave you reefer-ing to it in a new light.What’s the takeaway from this brainy banter? The conversation underscores the paramount importance of awareness, early diagnosis, and resilience in managing neurological conditions. It's a powerful reminder that when it comes to your health, the best approach is to always have the heads up.So, tune in, get your neurons firing, and remember: knowledge is brain power! This episode of Join the Docs is not just an educational experience but also an inspiring call to action for anyone dealing with neurological conditions or simply interested in the wonders of the human brain. So, give your brain a stem cell-bration!!—--DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed on Join the Docs are those of Dr. Nigel Guest, Jonathan Sackier and other people on our show. Be aware that Join the Docs is not intended to be medical advice, it is for information and entertainment purposes only - please, always take any health concerns to your doctor or other healthcare provider. We respect the privacy of patients and never identify individuals unless they have consented. We may change details, dates, place names and so on to protect privacy. Listening to Join the Docs, interacting on our social media, emailing or writing to us does not establish a doctor patient relationship.To Contact Us: For a deeper dive on this episode’s issue, merchandise and exclusive content, head to www.jointhedocs.comFollow us on youtube.com/JoinTheDocs Follow us on instgram.com/JoinTheDocsFollow us on tiktok.com/JoinTheDocsFollow us on: facebok.com/JoinTheDocsFollow us on: x.com/JoinTheDocs
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When Athletes Stumble - A Sporting Chance of Disaster
Oct 15, 202400:34:16Tap to summarizeIn this rib-tickling episode of Join the Docs, Professor Jonathan Sackier and Doctor Nigel Guest take listeners on a wild ride through the zany world of sports mishaps, where the unexpected meets the utterly ridiculous. As always, their sharp wit and infectious banter set the tone, making even the most jaw-dropping, or finger-ripping injuries feel like punchlines in an elaborate comedy routine.How can athletes go from hero to zero in seconds? The show kicks off with a lineup of pre-game blunders and over-the-top celebrations that went hilariously wrong, proving that even the most serious athletes aren’t immune to the occasional silly accident. From tripping over shoelaces during a grand entrance to attempting a victory dance that ends with a tumble, this episode is a reminder that in sports, things can go from perfect to perfectly disastrous in the blink of an eye.How does one mistake an iron for a phone? One of the standout tales in this episode involves a baseball player who somehow managed to do just that. Yes, you heard that right—a moment of distraction turned into a face-burning catastrophe that would go down in sports history as one of the most bizarre injuries imaginable.As painful as this, and others sound, it is baffling how people do such things t, you’ll find it hard not to laugh out loud!.How far is too far when celebrating? There’s the unforgettable story of a soccer player who, in the heat of celebrating a goal, lost more than just his composure—he lost a finger! It’s a tale so ridiculous, you’d think it was fiction, but the beauty of this episode is that all these mishaps are gloriously true. Sackier and Guest are baffled by the circumstances and you will be too.Why do these stories matter? As the episode progresses, The Docs take a step back from the silliness to reflect on the importance of safety in sports. While the stories may seem light-hearted, these mishaps serve as a reminder that sports, while thrilling, can also be fraught with unexpected dangers. From minor injuries to more serious accidents, the hosts highlight the need for precautions—albeit with a comedic twist. They point out that athletes, in their quest for glory, can sometimes overlook basic safety measures, leading to moments that are more farcical than triumphant.What’s the lesson here? This episode reminds us that no matter how skilled or experienced you are, sports will always have the potential for unpredictable mishaps. And sometimes, those mishaps are exactly what we need to keep things in perspective.Whether you’re an athlete with your own catalogue of embarrassing injuries, or simply someone who enjoys a good laugh at the expense of others (in the nicest possible way, of course), this episode is one you won’t want to miss. Sackier and Guest bring their A-game, delivering both hilarity and insights in equal measure. So, tune in for a whirlwind of absurdity, and remember: always play it safe, or you might just end up as the next punchline.—--DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed on Join the Docs are those of Dr. Nigel Guest, Jonathan Sackier and other people on our show. Be aware that Join the Docs is not intended to be medical advice, it is for information and entertainment purposes only - please, always take any health concerns to your doctor or other healthcare provider. We respect the privacy of patients and never identify individuals unless they have consented. We may change details, dates, place names and so on to protect privacy. Listening to Join the Docs, interacting on our social media, emailing or writing to us does not establish a doctor patient relationship.To Contact Us: For a deeper dive on this episode’s issue, merchandise and exclusive content, head to www.jointhedocs.comFollow us on youtube.com/JoinTheDocs Follow us on instgram.com/JoinTheDocsFollow us on tiktok.com/JoinTheDocsFollow us on: facebok.com/JoinTheDocsFollow us on: x.com/JoinTheDocs
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Lead-ing Ladies - The Price of Pale Skin
Oct 8, 202400:08:14Tap to summarizeWhy did Queen Elizabeth I look like she was auditioning for a role in a ghost story? In this episode of Join the Docs, our dynamic duo, Professor Jonathan Sackier and Dr. Nigel Guest, take a spook-tacular yet enlightening plunge into the world of historical beauty practices. They shine a spotlight on the iconic Queen Elizabeth I, whose beauty regimen had her looking as white as a sheet twith an approach as dangerous as a game of dodgeball with porcupines. The societal preference for pale skin back then was no joke, but the makeup they used certainly was—Venetian ceruse, a concoction so toxic it would make a chemistry teacher cry. This lead-laden face paint was the Elizabethan equivalent of playing Russian roulette with your health.Ever wondered what happens when you mix pore judgement with a dash of danger? Well, Professor Sackier and Doctor Guest are here to spill the creams—or rather, the ceruse. They dive into the health risks associated with these historical beauty practices, painting a vivid picture of lead poisoning that’s more terrifying than a haunted house. While the ghostly pallor was deemed attractive to our ancestors, we wonder if the lead-induced cognitive impairment was valued, making it clear that looking like a porcelain doll came at a steep price. And let's not forget the long-term effects, like infertility, which was nature's way of saying, "Maybe don't put poison on your face."How did people back then not realise they were essentially turning themselves into walking, talking toxic waste dumps? The Docs, with their signature blend of humour and expertise, unravel this mystery while keeping you in stitches (metaphorically). They highlight the absurdity of historical beauty standards, making you grateful for modern skincare routines that don’t involve hazardous materials.By the end of the episode, you'll be convinced that no amount of societal pressure is worth risking your health. So, next time you reach for that new beauty product, remember the powderful lessons of yesteryear and choose health over hazardous habits—or you might just makeup your mind the hard way!—--DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed on Join the Docs are those of Dr. Nigel Guest, Jonathan Sackier and other people on our show. Be aware that Join the Docs is not intended to be medical advice, it is for information and entertainment purposes only - please, always take any health concerns to your doctor or other healthcare provider. We respect the privacy of patients and never identify individuals unless they have consented. We may change details, dates, place names and so on to protect privacy. Listening to Join the Docs, interacting on our social media, emailing or writing to us does not establish a doctor patient relationship.To Contact Us: For a deeper dive on this episode’s issue, merchandise and exclusive content, head to www.jointhedocs.comFollow us on youtube.com/JoinTheDocs Follow us on instgram.com/JoinTheDocsFollow us on tiktok.com/JoinTheDocsFollow us on: facebok.com/JoinTheDocsFollow us on: x.com/JoinTheDocs
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Bubonic Banter - A Plague of Laughter
Oct 8, 202400:08:29Tap to summarizeWhy did the bacterium cross the road? To get to the Join the Docs podcast, of course! In this infectiously funny episode, Dr. Nigel Guest, our ever-curious family practitioner, sits down with none other than Yersinia pestis, the infamous bacterium behind the bubonic plague. With a twinkle in his eye and a stethoscope around his neck, Dr. Guest dives into a conversation that's as infectious as it is informative, exploring the historical havoc wreaked by this notorious, nasty microbe.Ever wondered what it's like to be the life of the pandemic party? Yersinia pestis, doesn't hold back. Reflecting on its "achievements" with a mix of pride and humour, Yersinia boasts about its role in various outbreaks, including the infamous Black Death. "I was the original person to go viral ," the bacterium recounts its glory days, clearly demonstrating it does not know the difference between a virus and a bacterium butspreading faster than a juicy piece of gossip in a small town, and chuckles about its current status in the microbial hall of shame—er, fame.How does one bacterium manage to stay plague-fully relevant for centuries? Yersinia pestis attributes its longevity to a combination of adaptability and a flair for the dramatic. "I've always known how to make an entrance," it says with a wink, "and let's face it, who doesn't love a good comeback story?" The conversation takes a turn for the hilarious as Yersinia shares anecdotes from its plaguey past, including a particularly memorable stint in 14th-century Europe.Is it possible to make a deadly pathogen sound charming? Dr. Nigel Guest certainly thinks so, as he navigates the interview with the skill of a seasoned talk show host. "You've certainly left your mark on history," he says, barely suppressing a chuckle. Yersinia responds with a mischievous grin, "Well, you know what they say, go big or go home!" The episode wraps up with a light-hearted discussion on modern medicine and the bacterium's current status, proving that even the most sinister microbes can have a sense of humour.This episode is a rollicking, germ-spreading ride through time, disease, and laughter, guaranteed to leave you both educated and entertained. So grab your headphones, settle in, and get ready to laugh your way through the plagues of infectious history with Dr. Nigel Guest and the ever-entertaining Yersinia pestis.—--DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed on Join the Docs are those of Dr. Nigel Guest, Jonathan Sackier and other people on our show. Be aware that Join the Docs is not intended to be medical advice, it is for information and entertainment purposes only - please, always take any health concerns to your doctor or other healthcare provider. We respect the privacy of patients and never identify individuals unless they have consented. We may change details, dates, place names and so on to protect privacy. Listening to Join the Docs, interacting on our social media, emailing or writing to us does not establish a doctor patient relationship.To Contact Us: For a deeper dive on this episode’s issue, merchandise and exclusive content, head to www.jointhedocs.comFollow us on youtube.com/JoinTheDocs Follow us on instgram.com/JoinTheDocsFollow us on tiktok.com/JoinTheDocsFollow us on: facebok.com/JoinTheDocsFollow us on: x.com/JoinTheDocs
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Side Effects May Include Laughter – A Dose of Drug Discovery
Oct 1, 202400:42:18Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Join the Docs, our ever-curious hosts, Professor Jonathan Sackier and Doctor Nigel Guest, take a deep dive into the labyrinthine world of medical research. With their signature blend of wit and wisdom, they aim to demystify the intricate processes behind drug discovery and clinical trials, making it as clear as a well-written prescription minus the totally illegible doctor’s handwriting of course!How does Professor Sackier set the tone for the discussion? He compares drug discovery to dating. You have to kiss a lot of frogs before you find your prince—or in this case, your blockbuster drug! Dr. Guest, not to be outdone, quips back, "And just like dating, it can cost you an arm and a leg, but hopefully not your liver!"The Docs delve into the various types of research, from basic science to clinical studies with a nod to the ridiculous. Ethical considerations are next on the menu, and Dr. Guest serves up a hearty helping of humour. The Docs discuss the importance of informed consent, patient safety, and the moral dilemmas that can arise, all while keeping the tone light and engaging. However, sometimes people go astray and medics are not immune; The Docs explore cases where some very naughty people did rather terrible things with publications - you won’t want to miss these stories!The episode emphasises the role of curiosity and the unwavering commitment to improving patient care as the key motivators for doctors. Curiosity didn't just kill the cat, says Sackier, it also cured it! Well, metaphorically speaking, of course. They share heartwarming and hilarious anecdotes about their own experiences in the field, making the complex topic relatable and entertaining.With their infectious humour and deep knowledge, Professor Jonathan Sackier and Doctor Nigel Guest make this episode of Join the Docs a must-listen for anyone curious about the world of medical research. So grab your lab coat and stethoscope, and get ready for a rollercoaster ride through the fascinating, funny, and sometimes downright bizarre world of drug discovery and clinical trials!—--DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed on Join the Docs are those of Dr. Nigel Guest, Jonathan Sackier and other people on our show. Be aware that Join the Docs is not intended to be medical advice, it is for information and entertainment purposes only - please, always take any health concerns to your doctor or other healthcare provider. We respect the privacy of patients and never identify individuals unless they have consented. We may change details, dates, place names and so on to protect privacy. Listening to Join the Docs, interacting on our social media, emailing or writing to us does not establish a doctor patient relationship.To Contact Us: For a deeper dive on this episode’s issue, merchandise and exclusive content, head to www.jointhedocs.comFollow us on youtube.com/JoinTheDocs Follow us on instgram.com/JoinTheDocsFollow us on tiktok.com/JoinTheDocsFollow us on: facebok.com/JoinTheDocsFollow us on: x.com/JoinTheDocs
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Beauty in the Eye of the Blurred-Holder - Bright Eyes
Sep 24, 202400:04:11Tap to summarizeEver wondered what makes your eyes pop when you see someone attractive? In this rib-tickling episode of Join the Docs, our dynamic duo, Professor Jonathan Sackier and Doctor Nigel Guest, dive deep into the eye-opening world of dilated pupils and attraction. The Docs hilariously dissect how Renaissance women, in their quest for beauty, resorted to using atropine extracted from the belladonna plant to dilate their pupils. Imagine the scene: women with eyes wide open, stumbling around like they’ve just walked out of a funhouse mirror maze, thanks to the atropine-induced blurred vision. Talk about beauty being in the eye of the beholder—if only they could see clearly!Why did Renaissance women risk it all for dilated pupils? The Docs paint a vivid and comical picture of these women accumulating bruises while endeavouring to look alluring. Picture them trying to navigate a crowded marketplace, squinting at apples and mistaking them for oranges, or worse, bumping into their crush and mistaking him for a lamppost. It’s a wonder they didn’t end up with more than just a few bruised egos! The lengths people go to for beauty—it's enough to make you blink twice.What about the modern uses of this eye-popping substance? Jonathan and Nigel don’t just stop at the Renaissance; they fast-forward to today, where atropine is still making waves, albeit in a more controlled manner. The Docs discuss its role in eye exams, where it helps doctors get a good look at the back of the eye, and in treating certain types of poisonings. Imagine going to the eye doctor and having your pupils dilated, only to walk out feeling like you’ve just stepped into a Salvador Dalí painting.But wait, there's more! The Docs also delve into the psychology behind why dilated pupils are considered attractive. They explain that larger pupils can signal arousal and interest, making a person appear more appealing. Jonathan and Nigel can't resist poking fun at the idea, imagining a world where everyone walks around with artificially dilated pupils, leading to a society of perpetually surprised and overly interested individuals.In the end, Join the Docs isn't just about learning; it's about laughing and seeing the world through a slightly more dilated lens. So, whether you're a history buff, a science geek, or just someone who loves a good laugh, this episode is sure to leave you with a twinkle in your eye and a chuckle in your heart.—--DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed on Join the Docs are those of Dr. Nigel Guest, Jonathan Sackier and other people on our show. Be aware that Join the Docs is not intended to be medical advice, it is for information and entertainment purposes only - please, always take any health concerns to your doctor or other healthcare provider. We respect the privacy of patients and never identify individuals unless they have consented. We may change details, dates, place names and so on to protect privacy. Listening to Join the Docs, interacting on our social media, emailing or writing to us does not establish a doctor patient relationship.To Contact Us: For a deeper dive on this episode’s issue, merchandise and exclusive content, head to www.jointhedocs.comFollow us on youtube.com/JoinTheDocs Follow us on instgram.com/JoinTheDocsFollow us on tiktok.com/JoinTheDocsFollow us on: facebok.com/JoinTheDocsFollow us on: x.com/JoinTheDocs
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Wurst Case Scenario - From Poison to Perfection
Sep 24, 202400:09:01Tap to summarizeHave you ever wondered how a deadly toxin found in spoiled sausages could end up being the secret behind wrinkle-free foreheads? In this rib-tickling episode of Join the Docs, our dynamic duo, Professor Jonathan Sackier and Doctor Nigel Guest, take you on a wild ride through the history and medical marvels of botulinum toxin, affectionately known as Botox. The Docs kick things off by tracing its origins back to the days of the Roman Empire, where improperly prepared sausages were more than just a culinary faux pas—they were a lethal hazard! With a sprinkle of humour, the hosts reveal their own sausage preferences, from bratwurst to bangers, and even throw in a few sausage puns that are sure to make you "wurst" with laughter.Did you know that Botox isn't just for keeping those pesky crow's feet at bay? In a clinical but not cynical twist, Sackier and Guest dive into the surprising medical applications of Botox that go way beyond the realm of vanity. They discuss how this toxin, once feared for its deadly potential, is now a miracle worker in treating muscle spasms and conditions from mouth to anus. Imagine a toxin that can both paralyse and heal—talk about a toxin-ating paradox behind Botox is not only understandable but downright entertaining.Ever thought about the culinary disasters that led to medical breakthroughs? The Docs certainly have, and they share some laugh-out-loud anecdotes about historical food poisoning incidents that paved the way for modern medicine. From ancient Roman feasts gone awry to mediaeval sausage mishaps, The Docs paint a vivid picture of how botulinum toxin transitioned from a kitchen nightmare to a medical marvel. Their light-hearted approach ensures that even the most complex medical topics are as easy to digest as a well-cooked sausage—minus the botulinum, of course!So, why not join Professor Sackier and Doctor Guest for an episode that's as enlightening as it is entertaining? With their perfect blend of humour and expertise, they make the history and uses of Botox a topic you won't soon forget. Whether you're a medical professional or just someone curious about the quirks of history, this episode of Join the Docs promises to be a wrinkle in time you won't want to miss!—--DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed on Join the Docs are those of Dr. Nigel Guest, Jonathan Sackier and other people on our show. Be aware that Join the Docs is not intended to be medical advice, it is for information and entertainment purposes only - please, always take any health concerns to your doctor or other healthcare provider. We respect the privacy of patients and never identify individuals unless they have consented. We may change details, dates, place names and so on to protect privacy. Listening to Join the Docs, interacting on our social media, emailing or writing to us does not establish a doctor patient relationship.To Contact Us: For a deeper dive on this episode’s issue, merchandise and exclusive content, head to www.jointhedocs.comFollow us on youtube.com/JoinTheDocs Follow us on instgram.com/JoinTheDocsFollow us on tiktok.com/JoinTheDocsFollow us on: facebok.com/JoinTheDocsFollow us on: x.com/JoinTheDocs
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