Podcast
The DNA Talks Podcast
Hosted by Dr. Krista Kostroman, Dr. Tracey Steady-Hardcastle, Dr. Lara Varden, Justin Harris · EN
Welcome to the DNA Talks Podcast where we take on the mission of unlocking the code of your genetics. This season is all about you – upgrading your health not just on the surface, but down to the root cause. Join us, as your clinicians of The DNA Company investigate your DNA and beyond!
Formerly the UNPILLED Podcast, the DNA Talks Podcast continues to be the innovative provider of FUNCTIONAL GENOMICS SOLUTIONS for personalized and preventative health and wellness.
12episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Future-Proof Your Brain with Dr. Tommy Wood
2d ago01:02:14Tap to summarizeWhat if the biggest lie you’ve ever been told about your health is that your brain is destined to decline?Justin Harris is joined by Dr. Tommy Wood, who currently works as an Associate Professor of Pediatrics and Neuroscience at the University of Washington, where my laboratory focuses on brain health across the lifespan — conducting research that focuses on ways to treat a range of brain injuries. This includes babies born preterm, adults who experience brain trauma, and the confluence of factors that can affect long-term cognitive function and risk of dementia.Dr. Tommy Wood received a Bachelor’s degree in biochemistry from the University of Cambridge, a medical degree from the University of Oxford, and a PhD in Physiology and Neuroscience from the University of Oslo. He has published dozens of scientific papers and lectured all over the world about brain health, metabolism, physical activity, and human performance. Dr. Tommy also spent more than a decade working as a performance consultant to professional athletes in multiple sports including several Olympians and world champions. In this episode, we dive into one of the most important conversations in modern health: how to protect, strengthen, and future-proof your brain. Dr. Tommy Wood breaks down why cognitive decline is not inevitable and how your daily choices, your epigenetic inputs, play a powerful role in shaping brain health across your entire lifespan.From neuroplasticity and skill-building to sleep, social connection, and metabolic health, this episode delivers a practical, science-backed blueprint for long-term cognitive performance.______________________________________________________If you wish to learn more from Dr. Tommy Wood, check out the following links:Check out his book entitled "The Stimulated Mind" it is now available wherever books are sold and is available as an audiobook on Spotify PremiumCheck out his website at drtommywood.com Follow him on Instagram: @DrTommyWoodListen to his Podcast: Better Brain Fitness______________________________________________________Keep yourself up to date on The DNA Talks Podcast! Follow our socials below:The DNA Talks Podcast Instagram: @dnatalkspodcastThe DNA Company Instagram: @thednacoThe DNA Company's Official Tiktok Account: @thednaco3Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in this communication is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.
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Sex and Longevity: Benefits of Ageless Intimacy with Susan Bratton
1w ago00:55:41Tap to summarizeWhat if your sex life was one of the most powerful drivers of longevity?In this episode, Dr. Tracey Steady Hardcastle is joined by intimacy expert Susan Bratton to explore the science-backed connection between sex and longevity, and why she calls it the missing pillar of health.Together, they unpack the concept of ageless intimacy - how pleasure, connection, and “orgasmic intimacy” support everything from blood flow and hormones to nervous system regulation and emotional resilience.This conversation reframes intimacy not as a luxury, but as a biological necessity for living a longer, healthier, and more vibrant life.If you wish to learn more from Susan Bratton, you may do so through the following channels:Visit betterlover.com to subscribe to Susan's newsletter and connect directly with her with your questions and concerns.Try out Susan's Nitric Oxide supplement at getflowfree.com (free 30-day supply)______________________________________________________Keep yourself up to date on The DNA Talks Podcast! Follow our socials below:The DNA Talks Podcast Instagram: @dnatalkspodcastThe DNA Company Instagram: @thednacoThe DNA Company's Official Tiktok Account: @thednaco3Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in this communication is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.
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Sex and Longevity: Redefining Aging With Doreen Wendt-Weir
4w ago00:30:10Tap to summarizeWhat if everything you believed about aging was incomplete?In this engaging and refreshingly honest episode of The DNA Talks Podcast, we welcome Doreen Wendt-Weir, author of Sex in Your Seventies and its spirited sequel, Gardening in Your Nineties.Doreen challenges cultural narratives around aging by asking bold, often humorous questions about vitality, intimacy, creativity, and identity later in life. Through her writing—and this conversation—she invites listeners to rethink what it means to grow older with curiosity, connection, and self-respect.We talk about why conversations around aging are so often avoided, how humor and honesty can open doors to deeper understanding, and why it’s never too late to redefine joy, purpose, and personal expression. Doreen’s perspective is both practical and playful, offering a counter-narrative to age-based limitations and assumptions.This episode is a celebration of longevity, lived experience, and the freedom that can come with embracing each stage of life on your own terms.If you wish to learn more from Doreen Wendt-Weir, you may do so through the following channels:Check out Doreen's book, Sex in Your Seventies, through this link: https://sexinyourseventies.com/2023/the-author/______________________________________________________Keep yourself up to date on The DNA Talks Podcast! Follow our socials below:The DNA Talks Podcast Instagram: @dnatalkspodcastThe DNA Company Instagram: @thednacoThe DNA Company's Official Tiktok Account: @thednaco3Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in this communication is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.
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Healing Autoimmune Disease by Bridging Science, Spirit, and the Nervous System with Dr. Zelina Medina, DACM, L.Ac.
Apr 2800:34:05Tap to summarizeIf the body is designed to heal, what happens when we finally create the conditions that allow it to do so?In this deeply moving and empowering episode of The DNA Talks Podcast, Dr. Tracey Steady‑Hardcastle sits down with Dr. Zelina Medina, founder of Acuvida Acupuncture, to explore the powerful intersections of autoimmune disease, trauma, nervous system regulation, functional genomics, and root‑cause healing.Diagnosed with lupus and kidney failure in her twenties, Dr. Medina shares her personal healing journey - one that led her beyond symptom management and into a holistic, integrative approach that blends science, Chinese medicine, lifestyle medicine, and spiritual healing. Now symptom‑free for over a decade, she helps patients heal chronic illness by addressing nervous system safety, unresolved trauma, inflammation, and individualized constitutional needs.Together, Dr. Steady and Dr. Medina discuss how trauma becomes stored in the body, how genetics influence stress and inflammation responses, and why true healing requires addressing mind, body, and spirit.If you wish to learn more from Dr. Zelina Medina, you may do so through the following channels:FREE Masterclass on Autoimmune: https://www.drzelinamedina.com/masterclassWebsite of Dr. Zelina: DrZelinaMedina.comInstagram of Dr. Zelina: https://www.instagram.com/drzelina_acuvida/Website of Acuvida: AcuvidaAcupuncture.comInstagram of Acuvida: https://www.instagram.com/drzelina_acuvida/______________________________________________________Keep yourself up to date on The DNA Talks Podcast! Follow our socials below:The DNA Talks Podcast Instagram: @dnatalkspodcastThe DNA Company Instagram: @thednacoThe DNA Company's Official Tiktok Account: @thednaco3Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in this communication is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in this communication is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.
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Why Keto and Intermittent Fasting Don’t Work the Same for Women’s Hormones with Dr. Lisa Olszewski
Apr 2100:32:38Tap to summarizeIn this deeply honest and empowering episode of The DNA Talks Podcast, Dr. Tracey Steady-Hardcastle sits down with Dr. Lisa Olszewski, chiropractor, naturopath, founder of the American Institute of Healthy Living, and host of Healthy Living Simple with Dr. Lisa.Dr. Lisa shares her personal health crisis—despite “doing everything right”—and how it reshaped her approach to nutrition, women’s hormones, ketogenic diets, intermittent fasting, and true wellness. This conversation explores why one-size-fits-all health advice fails, how women’s bodies differ biologically from men’s, and why listening to your body and your genetics matters more than following trends.If you’ve ever wondered why keto, fasting, or intense exercise worked for everyone else but left you exhausted, stuck, or unwell - this episode is for you. Here are the highlights of this episode:Why women cannot follow keto or fasting protocols the same way men doHow prolonged ketosis and extreme fasting can impair thyroid, adrenal, and reproductive healthWhat strategic carb cycling looks like for cycling vs. postmenopausal womenCommon intermittent fasting mistakes that stall progress or worsen symptomsHow chiropractic care impacts hormones, metabolism, and digestionWhy symptoms are warning signals—not problems to suppressHow to simplify healthy living without perfection or burnoutIf you wish to learn more from Dr. Lisa Olszewski, you may do so through the following channels:Podcast: Healthy Living Simple with Dr. Lisa O Website: https://healthylivingsimple.com/pages/dr-lisa-o______________________________________________________Keep yourself up to date on The DNA Talks Podcast! Follow our socials below:The DNA Talks Podcast Instagram: @dnatalkspodcastThe DNA Company Instagram: @thednacoThe DNA Company's Official Tiktok Account: @thednaco3Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in this communication is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.
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Training the Immune System for Longevity: Beta‑Glucans, Biological Aging, and Resilient Health with Dr. Chris D'Adamo
Apr 1500:49:17Tap to summarizeThe immune system plays a central role in how we age—but what if we could train it to work better over time?In this episode of The DNA Talks Podcast, Dr. Lara Varden welcomes Dr. Chris D’Adamo, PhD, epidemiologist and integrative medicine researcher, for an in‑depth conversation on beta‑glucans, trained immunity, and longevity‑focused health strategies.Dr. D’Adamo explains the critical difference between stimulating the immune system and modulating or training it, why not all beta‑glucans are created equal, and how specific forms influence natural killer cells, gut health, stress resilience, and biological aging pathways.The discussion also explores:Immune health and its link to aging, mood, and chronic diseaseThe gut‑brain‑immune connectionStress, recovery, and immune resilienceClinical insights on respiratory infections, autoimmunity, and detoxificationHow genetics and lifestyle together shape immune responseWith insights drawn from decades of research and recent clinical trial data, this episode offers a practical and empowering look at how immune optimization fits into precision, functional, and longevity medicine. Tune in to discover why immune health may be the foundation of a longer, healthier life.If you wish to learn more from Dr. Chris D'Adamo, you may do so through the following links:Ovation Lab Website: https://ovationlab.comResearch‑backed, beta‑glucan educational chatbot: https://www.betaglucan.com/BWH Labs: https://bwhlabs.com/______________________________________________________Keep yourself up to date on The DNA Talks Podcast! Follow our socials below:The DNA Talks Podcast Instagram: @dnatalkspodcastThe DNA Company Instagram: @thednacoThe DNA Company's Official Tiktok Account: @thednaco3Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in this communication is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.
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The Missing Link in Thyroid Care: The Genetic Thyroid Clues Your Doctor Isn’t Testing For
Apr 900:52:54Tap to summarizeHave you been told your thyroid labs are “normal,” yet you’re exhausted, gaining weight, foggy‑headed, or losing your hair?In this episode of The DNA Talks Podcast, Dr. Tracey Steady‑Hardcastle is joined by Dr. Amie Hornaman, “The Thyroid Fixer”, for a deep, empowering conversation on why conventional thyroid care fails so many women and what truly optimized, personalized treatment looks like.Dr. Amie Hornaman is the CEO and Founder of the Advanced Thyroid & Hormone Clinic, an international telehealth practice serving patients across the U.S. and parts of Canada. Known as The Thyroid Fixer, she is a hormone optimization specialist, educator, speaker, and host of The Thyroid Fixer Podcast. She is the author of The Thyroid Fix: The No‑Nonsense Guide to Fixing Fatigue, Fogginess, and Fat That Won’t Budge.Together, they explore the powerful roles of genetics, reverse T3, the forgotten thyroid hormone T2, autoimmune triggers like gluten, and why symptoms matter more than reference ranges. If you wish to learn more from Dr. Amie Hornaman, you may do so through the following links:Preorder The Thyroid Fix (book) before May 12, 2026 at the https://thyroidfixbook.com to receive exclusive bonuses!Website: https://dramie.comPodcast: The Thyroid Fixer PodcastSupplements: FixxR Science‑Backed Formula Line (Thyroid Fixer & Metabolism Fixer)Community: Just Fix Your Thyroid (Facebook Group)______________________________________________________Keep yourself up to date on The DNA Talks Podcast! Follow our socials below:The DNA Talks Podcast Instagram: @dnatalkspodcastThe DNA Company Instagram: @thednacoThe DNA Company's Official Tiktok Account: @thednaco3Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in this communication is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.
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Tantra for Emotional Healing: Nervous System Regulation, Self‑Love & the Science of Intimacy
Apr 200:57:02Tap to summarizeIn this powerful and deeply insightful episode, Dr. Tracey Steady‑Hardcastle sits down with Dominique D’Vita—registered nurse, certified Tantra educator, and trauma‑informed master coach—to explore the intersection of Tantra, nervous system healing, genetics, and soulful intimacy.Drawing from more than three decades in critical‑care nursing and her own powerful heart‑opening awakening, Dominique shares how Tantra’s ancient tools—breath, sound, movement, intention, and embodied presence—align with modern neuroscience to help us move from survival mode into healing, vitality, and self‑love. She explains how tantric practices awaken safety in the body, regulate stress responses, and restore our ability to feel, connect, and receive life more fully.Together, Tracey and Dominique dive into:How tantric healing reduces stress, supports oxytocin release, and helps regulate the nervous systemWhy slowing down, breathing deeply, and reconnecting with the body increases emotional resilienceHow intentional touch, presence, and self‑compassion can soften old wounds and repair inner safetyWays Tantra can support people healing from trauma, disconnection, or feeling shut downHow tantric practices help rebuild self‑trust, deepen relational connection, and expand personal growthIf you wish to learn more from Dominique D'Vita of Yes Tantra, you may do so through the following links:The mentioned quizzes in the interview can be found here: https://yestantra.com/relationship-quizzesWebsite: YesTantra.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YesTantra______________________________________________________Keep yourself up to date on The DNA Talks Podcast! Follow our socials below:The DNA Talks Podcast Instagram: @dnatalkspodcastThe DNA Company Instagram: @thednacoThe DNA Company's Official Tiktok Account: @thednaco3Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in this communication is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.
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The Beauty of Change: Empowerment in Clothing, Healing, and Women's Health with Keira Kotler of Everviolet
Mar 2400:29:30Tap to summarizeHow do the clothes we wear shape not only our comfort, but also our healing, identity, and empowerment as women?In this inspiring conversation, Krista sits down with Keira Kotler, founder of Everviolet, a company dedicated to creating intimate apparel that supports women through the many changing seasons of life. From breast cancer recovery to pregnancy, menopause, and beyond, Keira shares how garments can nurture both body and spirit, offering comfort, inclusivity, and empowerment.This episode explores the intersection of personalized medicine, women’s health, and clothing design, reminding us that healing is not only medical but also deeply personal and embodied.Key Topics Covered✨ Keira’s Journey – From brand marketing to lingerie design after her own breast cancer diagnosis and bilateral mastectomy. ✨ The Birth of Everviolet – How the lack of supportive, feminine, and comfortable garments inspired her to create a new kind of intimate wear. ✨ Inclusivity in Design – Garments that accommodate reconstruction, prosthetics, asymmetry, surgical drains, and diverse body types. ✨ Fabric Matters – Why natural, breathable, and environmentally conscious fabrics are essential for healing and comfort. ✨ The Beauty of Change – EverViolet’s tagline and mission to support women through puberty, pregnancy, postpartum, illness, menopause, and beyond. ✨ Personalized Support – Free fit and style consultations, both in-person and virtual, to help women find their best fit. ✨ Community Storytelling – In Her Words, EverViolet’s journal series where women share their health and life journeys.If you wish to learn more from Keira Kotler and her company, Everviolet, check out the following links:Website: Use the code "DNATALKS20" for a 20% off discount at everviolet.com; you may also explore their community series, In Her Words: Journal series on their websiteContact: hello@everviolet.comInstagram: @everviolet ______________________________________________________Keep yourself up to date on The DNA Talks Podcast! Follow our socials below:The DNA Talks Podcast Instagram: @dnatalkspodcastThe DNA Company Instagram: @thednacoThe DNA Company's Official Tiktok Account: @thednaco3Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in this communication is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.
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Let Food Be Thy Medicine: Ayurveda and Natural Food Healing for Women’s Health with Gita Vellanki
Mar 1700:34:11Tap to summarize“Every time we visited my grandmother in India, she went to the kitchen first before the pharmacy. Nine out of ten times, she came back with something that made us feel better.” -Gita VellankiIn this episode of DNA Talks, host Krista Kostroman sits down with Gita Vellanki, founder of Neeshi, a food-based wellness brand inspired by Ayurvedic traditions.Gita shares her personal journey from working in high tech to creating products that support women through hormonal transitions—from teenage years to perimenopause—using nutrient-dense foods instead of conventional hormone therapies.Together, Krista and Gita explore the intersection of Ayurvedic medicine, genetics, and functional nutrition, highlighting how food can act as medicine when used consistently and thoughtfully. They discuss the importance of empowered choice, the limitations of supplements, and how traditional wisdom aligns beautifully with modern genomic insights.Here are the highlights of this episode:01:59 Background Story05:35 Ayurvedic Medicine07:06 Innate or Born Constitution09:55 Gita, Her Daughter, and the Kitchen13:46 The Role of the Clinician24:15 Leveraging Food as Medicine for People in Perimenopause and Menopause29:34 Gaps in the Medical MarketIf you wish to learn more from Gita Vellanki and her company, Neeshi, check out the following links:Website: Use the code "DNACO20" for a discount at https://neeshi.com/Instagram: @neeshiwellness, @shopneeshi______________________________________________________Keep yourself up to date on The DNA Talks Podcast! Follow our socials below:The DNA Talks Podcast Instagram: @dnatalkspodcastThe DNA Company Instagram: @thednacoThe DNA Company's Official Tiktok Account: @thednaco3Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in this communication is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.
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