The Journal: "MAHA Influencers Go to Washington"

Release Date: May 12, 2025
Hosts: Jessica Commendoza and Christina Peterson
Co-production: Spotify and The Wall Street Journal

Introduction

In the May 12, 2025 episode of The Journal, hosts Jessica Commendoza and Christina Peterson delve into the intersection of wellness influencers and political power in Washington D.C. Titled "MAHA Influencers Go to Washington," the episode explores the rising influence of the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) movement within the nation's top health sectors and the implications of their growing ties to government officials.

Background on MAHA Influencers

The episode begins with a discussion about the prominent MAHA figures, Casey and Cali Means—a sister and brother duo deeply embedded in the wellness industry. Casey, a medical doctor, and Cali, a former food lobbyist, have co-founded several startups aimed at revolutionizing health and wellness. Jessica Commendoza highlights their impact:

"Casey Means is one of the more influential figures in the Make America Healthy Again movement."
(00:43)

RFK Jr.'s Nomination of Casey Means as Surgeon General

A significant focus is on President Trump's recent nomination of Casey Means as Surgeon General, a move that has catapulted her into the national spotlight. This nomination aligns with Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s department of Health and Human Services (HHS) objectives to sever ties between government agencies and large food and pharmaceutical companies.

"Kennedy has presented himself as the antidote to business interests becoming entangled with the nation's healthcare."
(03:44)

Casey Means, despite not having completed her residency or holding an active medical license, is portrayed as a transformative figure aiming to overhaul America's health systems. Her personal motivations stem from her mother's struggle with pancreatic cancer, which instilled in her a deep distrust of the traditional medical establishment.

"Casey Means writes in her book about how when their mother was dying in 2021, she was angered by the doctors who were pushing surgical interventions on her mother when she wanted more to preserve her quality of life."
(13:37)

Involvement of Wellness Entrepreneurs

The episode sheds light on the involvement of wellness entrepreneurs like Vani Hari and Dr. Mark Hyman in RFK Jr.'s initiatives. Vani Hari, known as the "Food Babe," co-founded Truvani, a company producing protein supplements and snack bars. Her active participation in RFK Jr.'s press conferences and media appearances has amplified the MAHA movement's message.

"Vani Hari was extremely enthusiastic to be talking about the FDA's announcement that it was phasing out certain food dyes."
(06:25)

Similarly, Dr. Mark Hyman, founder of Function Health, has seen his company’s valuation skyrocket, indicating the financial benefits tied to his association with the MAHA movement.

"Hyman's company, Function Health, closed a funding round in February that valued the company at $2.5 billion."
(09:49)

Potential Conflicts of Interest and Ethical Concerns

A critical discussion revolves around the ethical implications of these intertwining relationships between MAHA influencers and government roles. Christina Peterson raises concerns about the perception of conflicts of interest:

"It does seem like this is giving her even more visibility ... Does it violate any ethical rules or, or any laws?"
(07:47)

Experts cited in the episode argue that while no explicit laws may be broken, the appearance of overlapping interests can erode public trust. For instance, Casey Means’ investments in companies like Function Health and her partnership with Mark Hyman could be seen as potential conflicts if she ascends to the role of Surgeon General.

"Being the nation's top doctor and having investments in the health field could be perceived as a conflict of interest."
(14:35)

Reactions and Responses

The HHS spokesperson responded to these concerns by emphasizing the protection of First Amendment rights, asserting that private citizens are entitled to advocate for their beliefs without government interference.

"A spokesman for the HHS said, 'It appears that the Wall Street Journal is taking issue with private citizens exercising First Amendment rights.'"
(11:30)

Additionally, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. defends his appointment of Casey Means by highlighting her unconventional approach to medicine, which he argues is precisely why she is the ideal candidate for Surgeon General.

"That's what makes her the best person for this job. She has been a skeptic and that she didn't just swallow the traditional medical orthodoxy."
(18:17)

Future Implications

As Casey Means awaits confirmation by the Senate, the episode speculates on the future landscape of American public health. The intertwining of MAHA influencers within government roles is poised to reshape health policies, potentially prioritizing wellness and alternative health solutions over traditional medical practices.

Christina Peterson emphasizes the strategic advantages for MAHA figures in gaining governmental support, which in turn, provides them with a larger platform to influence public health discourse.

"RFK's rise and the attention to the Make America Healthy Again movement generally gives people involved in this space more of a bigger audience."
(19:06)

Conclusion

The episode concludes with an analysis of the potential confirmation of Casey Means as Surgeon General. While ethical concerns remain, the political momentum and support from influential figures suggest a high likelihood of her appointment, signaling a significant shift in the nexus of health, business, and power in America.

"I think it's probably likely that she gets confirmed. Most of the President's nominees have gotten through the Senate with a handful of exceptions."
(20:30)

For more insights into the intricate relationships between health influencers and political power, listen to the full episode of "MAHA Influencers Go to Washington" on Spotify or The Wall Street Journal's The Journal.