The Healthspan Podcast

The Role Mental Health Plays in Your Longevity with Dr. Morgan Francis, Psy.D., LPC

In this episode, Dr. Robert Todd Hurst, MD, FACC, FASE, and Dr. Morgan Francis, Psy.D., LPC dive into the essential connection between mental well-being and longevity, shedding light on how emotional health directly impacts cognitive function and overall quality of life. They explore the often-overlooked struggles of high-functioning depression and anxiety, as well as the profound effects of imposter syndrome on high achievers. The discussion also highlights the importance of setting boundaries for mental health and how prioritizing self-care, maintaining social connections, and addressing body image struggles can enhance both emotional resilience and physical well-being. Dr. Francis provides practical strategies for managing stress, grief, and emotional burnout, offering actionable steps for anyone seeking a healthier, more balanced life. The conversation also touches on the roots of body shaming, equipping listeners with insights to foster self-compassion and emotional strength. 
Dr. Morgan Francis is a nationally recognized mental health expert with over 20 years of experience in the field. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology and specializes in body image and eating disorders, self-empowerment, sexual compulsive behavior, mood disorders, relationships, and trauma. Dr. Francis is the founder of Scottsdale Premier Counseling, a private practice in Scottsdale, Arizona, where she provides individual, couples, and group therapy. She also serves as a mental health expert for Channel 12 News in Phoenix, Arizona, and has been a regular commentator on FOX 10 Phoenix Morning Show, discussing topics on sexual health and relationships. Dr. Francis is on a mission to end the stigma of mental health and is committed to providing individualized treatment, working with clients to identify their goals and develop specific plans of action to reach them. 
Key Timestamps: 
[00:00] - Introduction to HealthSpanMD and today’s guest, Dr. Morgan Francis 
[02:00] - Recognizing high-functioning depression and anxiety  
[07:30] - The impact of imposter syndrome on high achievers 
[11:18] - The importance of prioritizing self-care and mental health for longevity 
[13:25] - Tips for setting boundaries & their importance for emotional well-being 
[16:20] - Why men avoid emotional conflict  
[18:51] - How to reach a solution with your partner  
[20:24] - How often people seek support without knowing what they need 
[21:30] - Life coaching vs therapy  
[24:21] - Why a collaborative approach from a healthcare team is essential 
[26:09] - When to seek support with body image issues and disordered eating 
[28:27] - Where and when body image expectations develop 
[30:27] - The toxic environment around food today 
[33:25] - Why nutrition is extremely complex and individualized  
[36:11] - Tips to prevent cognitive impairment  
[41:57] - How grief and loss impact mental and physical health 
[43:03] - The ideal patient of Dr. Morgan Francis 
[43:44] - How to find and connect with Dr. Morgan Francis 
 
www.scottsdalepremiercounseling.com 
https://quiz.healthspanmd.com/ 
Connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube 
This show is produced by Mathew Blades and Integrity Media Solutions  LLC 

You Don’t Have to Die Like Your Dad: How to Take Control of Your Health

In this powerful episode, Dr. Robert Todd Hurst, MD, FACC, FASE, sits down with Mathew Blades, a man whose personal experience with sudden cardiac death changed his life forever. After witnessing his father’s fatal heart attack at a young age, Mathew made a promise to himself: his children would never experience the same tragedy. Through a deeply personal and eye-opening conversation, Dr. Robert Todd Hurst, MD, FACC, FASE and Mathew discuss the realities of preventable heart disease, the importance of proactive healthcare, and how the Medicine 3.0 approach is changing lives. They also explore the connection between unresolved trauma and physical health, shedding light on how mindset and action play a crucial role in longevity. If you've ever wondered how to take control of your health and defy genetic fate, this episode is a must-listen. 
Key Timestamps: 
[00:40] - Introduction to Mathew Blades and topics discussed 
[02:08] - Mathew's story of losing his father 
[03:19] - The shocking truth: 93% of heart attacks are preventable 
[05:07] - Mathew’s wake-up call and the decision to change his future 
[07:08] - The power of hope 
[09:07] - Tips on how to handle trauma head on 
[12:26] - How trauma manifests physically & why unresolved stress can impact health 
[14:06] - The hidden problem in medicine 
[15:55] - Breaking through limiting beliefs and taking control of your health 
[19:29] - Imposter syndrome holding us back  
[21:05] - The firsthand difference in a preventive care approach  
[23:01] - Understanding Medicine 3.0 
[27:10] - The benefits of the doctor patient relationship 
[29:41] - The importance of modeling healthy behaviors for future generations 
[33:23] - Physician incentives are not aligned to preventative care  
[36:10] - The message to men: There’s nothing strong about leaving your family too soon 
[37:52] - Final thoughts: There has never been a better time to take action 
https://quiz.healthspanmd.com/ 
Connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube 
This show is produced by Mathew Blades and Integrity Media Solutions  LLC 

Ketamine Therapy for Trauma, Mental Resilience and Longevity with Dr. Sandy Indermuhle, MD

In this episode, Dr. Robert Todd Hurst, MD, FACC, FASE and Dr. Sandy Indermuhle dive deep into the groundbreaking intersection of mental health and longevity through ketamine. They discuss the transformative potential of ketamine-assisted therapy and explore topics like breaking mental health stigmas, the neuroscience behind ketamine, and its impact on anxiety, depression, PTSD, and more. Discover how addressing past traumas can unlock personal growth and long-term well-being. 
Dr. Sandy Indermuhle, MD, is the Medical Director of Enlighten Wellness and a transformational guide specializing in ketamine-assisted therapy. With over 15 years of experience as an ER physician, Dr. Indermuhle now combines traditional medical expertise with an integrative approach to mental health. Her innovative practice focuses on addressing the root causes of trauma and mental health challenges through personalized, science-backed therapies. 
Key Timestamps: 
[01:16] Introduction to the episode and Dr. Sandy Indermuhle 
[02:30] Career path and perspective shift about healthcare  
[04:55] How Dr. Indermuhle got to psychedelics  
[08:20] Who is a good candidate for ketamine 
[09:50] The difference in using ketamine recreationally vs medically 
[10:50] Frequency of ketamine therapy 
[12:12] Ideal client for ketamine therapy 
[13:50] Getting people more comfortable with getting outside their comfort zone 
[16:49] Can this be for people just wanting to optimize? 
[19:00] Ketamine is a tool to use with therapy  
[19:55] Future of ketamine 
[23:15] Who ketamine may not be for 
[26:36] Experiences as an ER physician prepared Dr. Indermuhle for ketamine work 
[29:15] Steps leading up to ketamine session and details about session itself 
[33:00] What happens after ketamine session  
[34:10] How ketamine affects different types of individuals 
[38:38] Evidence based thinking  
[41:00] How did Dr. Indermuhle create her own process for ketamine therapy 
[42:10] Frequency of ketamine therapy sessions  
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Don't make any decisions about your medical treatment without first talking to your doctor.
Connect with Dr. Sandy Indermuhle and inLIGHTen Wellness:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083514481462
https://www.instagram.com/inlightenwellness/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandy-indermuhle-79a5a4157/
WWW.INLIGHTENWELLNESS.COM 
Connect with HealthspanMD:
quiz.healthspanmd.com
linkedin.com/company/healthspanmd/
facebook.com/healthspanmd
instagram.com/healthspanmd/
About HealthspanMD: At HealthspanMD, we combine science-backed strategies and compassionate care to help you live a longer, healthier, and more fulfilling life. Learn more at https://www.healthspanmd.com/ or call 480-847-2575
This show is produced by Mathew Blades and Sam Robertson

Longevity Expert Weighs in on Netflix's "Don't Die" Documentary

In this episode Dr. Robert Todd Hurst, MD, FACC, FASE dives into the highly discussed Netflix documentary Don't Die, which follows Bryan Johnson’s extreme anti-aging protocols. With patients frequently asking about Johnson’s controversial methods, ranging from 54 daily supplements to plasma exchanges, Dr. Robert Todd Hurst, MD, FACC, FASE shares his insights on longevity science, risk assessment, and the importance of balancing cutting-edge biohacking with foundational health principles. He explores the benefits and drawbacks of Johnson’s approach, the role of personal thresholds for risk, and why longevity isn’t just about numbers but also about purpose and connection. 
 
Key Time Stamps: 
[00:30] – Why Dr. Robert Todd Hurst, MD, FACC, FASE decided to watch Don't Die 
[01:40] - How the documentary changed his opinion 
[02:30] - The impact of Johnson’s choice for his physician 
[03:30] - The difference in our individual thresholds of benefits vs risks 
[05:15] - Johnson’s not blindly trusting, he’s looking at results 
[06:09] - The human growth hormone and deciding to stop using it 
[06:20] - Not missing the fundamentals  
[07:10] - Bryan Johnson’s blueprint, his algorithm  
[09:25] – The power of habits/algorithms in health 
[10:00] - The storytelling in the documentary & importance of social connection 
[11:50] – Are you interested in Longevity? 
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Don't make any decisions about your medical treatment without first talking to your doctor.
Connect with HealthspanMD: 
https://www.linkedin.com/company/healthspanmd/  
https://www.facebook.com/healthspanmd  
https://www.instagram.com/healthspanmd/ 
https://quiz.healthspanmd.com/  
 
🏆 Become a Member / 🤝 Partner With Dr. Hurst and His Expert Team To Add a Decade or More Of Healthy Life  
At HealthspanMD, we combine cutting-edge medicine, advanced technology, and concierge care to help high-achievers avoid heart attacks, strokes, dementia.  
🔍 Learn how patients add years to their lives by going to 👉 https://www.healthspanmd.com.  
📅 Or Schedule a Call Directly with a HealthspanMD Dedicated Patient Advisor by clicking 👉 https://join.healthspanmd.com/call  
 
This show is produced by Mathew Blades and Integrity Media Solutions  LLC  

How GLP-1 Medications and Coenzyme Q10 Improve Healthspan with Dr. Heather Saran, DO

In this episode of The HealthSpan Podcast, Dr. Robert Todd Hurst, MD, FACC, FASE, sits down with Dr. Heather Saran, DO, a leading endocrinologist and founder of Bright Endocrinology, to discuss the essentials of longevity through the lens of metabolic health, hormone optimization, and bone strength. Discover actionable insights into managing insulin resistance, the role of thyroid and sex hormones, and how to build stronger bones for a healthier future.  
Key Timestamps: 
[01:16] - Introduction to Dr. Saran and her expertise 
[02:37] - Misconceptions about hormone health 
[03:40] - How the pendulum has swung for post menopause care  
[07:00] - Who would benefit from hormone replacement 
[09:36] - How the pendulum has swung for men testosterone prescriptions 
[14:16] - How knowledge around metabolic dysfunction has evolved 
[19:50] - Taking care of people with diabetes  
[21:05] - Tips on preventing metabolic dysfunction  
[25:30] - The role of mitochondria in metabolism and mitochondria health 
[28:55] - Thyroid health and how it impacts longevity  
[33:17] - Hypothyroid and hyperthyroid symptoms 
[34:46] - Synthroid vs Armour thyroid medication 
[39:45] - Bone health 
[44:55] - Dr. Saran’s practice model  
Listeners who mention they found Dr. Saran on this podcast will get $100 off a new patient visit at Bright Endocrinology. 
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Don't make any decisions about your medical treatment without first talking to your doctor.
Connect with Dr. Saran here: 
https://www.facebook.com/people/Bright-Endocrinology-Heather-Saran-DO/61556777378782/  
https://www.facebook.com/people/Bright-Endocrinology-Heather-Saran-DO/61556777378782/ 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-saran-18a173303   
www.brightendocrinology.com 
For more information and to schedule an appointment, visit HealthspanMD.com or call 480-847-2575. 
https://quiz.healthspanmd.com/ 
Connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube 
This show is produced by Mathew Blades and Integrity Media Solutions  LLC 

What to Do About a High Calcium Score with Dr. Michael Eckersley, MFA, PhD

In this episode of the HealthspanMD Podcast, Dr. Robert Todd Hurst, MD, FACC, FASE, is joined by Dr. Michael Eckersley, MFA, PhD, a cognitive psychologist and professor at the University of Kansas. Together, they explore Dr. Eckersley's personal journey with a high coronary artery calcium score and discuss the steps he took to take control of his heart health. This episode provides invaluable insights into coronary artery calcium scores, prevention strategies, and the role of comprehensive care in achieving long-term health and longevity. 
Timestamps: 
[00:00] Introduction: The importance of longevity and coronary artery calcium scores 
[02:19] Dr. Eckersley's story: From a routine scan to life-changing results 
[04:39] Understanding coronary artery calcium scores and early detection 
[06:57] Challenges in navigating traditional cardiology approaches 
[11:37] Why repeat calcium scores can be misleading 
[16:27] Incorporating resistance training for long-term health benefits 
[21:12] The surprising potential to build muscle after 70 
[23:34] Advice for those newly diagnosed with a high calcium score 
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Don't make any decisions about your medical treatment without first talking to your doctor.
http://humancentered.net 
https://quiz.healthspanmd.com/  
For more information and to schedule an appointment, visit HealthspanMD.com or call 480-847-2575. 
Connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube 
This show is produced by Mathew Blades and Integrity Media Solutions  LLC 

Building Stability to Avoid Falls with Gianni Del Franco, MS, CSCS, Pn1

In this episode of the HealthspanMD Podcast, Dr. Robert Todd Hurst, MD, FACC, FASE, sits down with Gianni Del Franco, MS, CSCS, Pn1, founder of BioElite, to explore how personal trainers and physicians can collaborate for optimal health outcomes. Together, they dive into the essentials of longevity: building a strong body, maintaining a healthy brain, and receiving high-quality proactive healthcare. Topics include practical tips for overcoming barriers to fitness, the role of strength and mobility in preventing frailty, and the science of habit formation for long-term health. 
Timestamps: 
[00:00] Introduction: Longevity, HealthspanMD, and Gianni Del Franco 
[01:43] Collaboration between physicians and fitness coaches 
[06:27] Barriers to post-cardiac event exercise and solutions 
[11:12] The benefits of cardiac rehab programs 
[20:28] Essentials of longevity: muscle strength and frailty prevention 
[31:52] The impact of exercise on brain health 
[34:06] Frameworks for building lasting habits 
[40:53] Is it ever too late to build muscle? Inspirational case studies 
[45:32] Where to connect with Gianni Del Franco and BioElite 
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Don't make any decisions about your medical treatment without first talking to your doctor.
Connect with Gianni and Bio-Elite Training Systems:
bebioelite.com
facebook.com/BeBioElite
instagram.com/gianni_delfranco/
linkedin.com/in/gianni-delfranco/]
youtube.com/@bebioelite
Bio-Elite Training Systems is offering a free 15 minute discovery call to answer any leading questions someone may have about their health. https://calendly.com/giannidelfranco/15-minute-phone-call
Connect with HealthspanMD:
quiz.healthspanmd.com
linkedin.com/company/healthspanmd/
facebook.com/healthspanmd
instagram.com/healthspanmd/
About HealthspanMD: At HealthspanMD, we combine science-backed strategies and compassionate care to help you live a longer, healthier, and more fulfilling life. Learn more at https://www.healthspanmd.com/ or call 480-847-2575
This show is produced by Mathew Blades and Sam Robertson

Debunking Diet Myths: Personalized Protein and Nutrition Strategies with Kristine James RD, LDN, NBC-HWC

Nutrition can feel overwhelming with all the advice out there - eat less, eat clean, go low-carb, avoid fat, try keto, or eat six meals a day. In this episode, Dr. Robert Todd Hurst, MD, FACC, FASE, and Kristine James, a registered dietitian with HealthspanMD, discuss evidence-based strategies to cut through the noise. From finding a personalized diet to exploring intermittent fasting, macronutrient balance, and processed foods, they offer practical insights to help you thrive. 
Discover how nutrition science aligns with real-life habits and why a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work. Kristine shares tips on building sustainable dietary changes, debunks common myths like juicing and high-protein diets, and explains how food impacts your health in ways you might not realize. 
Key Timestamps: 
01:05 - Introduction: Navigating conflicting nutrition advice 
03:15 - The importance of personalized diets 
08:04 - Protein intake myths and practical recommendations 
19:29 - Understanding processed foods and reading labels 
37:51 - Strategies to reduce calorie intake 
42:23 - The pros and cons of intermittent fasting 
44:40 - Why juicing and cleanses might not be your best bet 
49:26 - Success stories: Transforming health through personalized care 
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Don't make any decisions about your medical treatment without first talking to your doctor.
https://quiz.healthspanmd.com/  
For more information and to schedule an appointment, visit HealthspanMD.com or call 480-847-2575. 
Connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube 
This show is produced by Mathew Blades and Integrity Media Solutions  LLC 

Anti-Aging Skincare, Sunscreen Myths, and Cancer Prevention with Dr. Brooke Jeffy

Healthy skin is more than just beauty, it’s a key aspect of your longevity and overall well-being. In this episode of the Healthspan Podcast, Dr. Robert Todd Hurst, MD, FACC, FASE, sits down with Dr. Brooke Jeffy, a board-certified dermatologist and skincare expert. Together, they explore the essentials of proactive skin care, including early detection of skin cancer, effective prevention strategies, and ways to maintain youthful, vibrant skin. 
Dr. Jeffy offers expert advice on sunscreen myths, antioxidant-rich diets, and the impact of lifestyle on skin health. They also discuss the skincare needs of tweens and teens, highlighting Dr. Jeffy’s innovative skincare line, Between (BTWN), designed specifically for younger skin. Whether you’re navigating anti-aging products or ensuring your family stays safe in the sun, this episode is packed with actionable insights. 
Key Timestamps: 
00:44 - Introduction to Dr. Brooke Jeffy and her expertise in dermatology 
03:04 - The importance of regular skin cancer screenings 
11:45 - Preventing skin cancer through lifestyle and innovative products 
13:48 - Breaking down sunscreen myths and choosing the best protection 
23:08 - How skin health impacts confidence and quality of life 
27:42 - Anti-aging strategies: Prevention and intervention options 
43:05 - Addressing tween skincare and navigating harmful trends 
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Don't make any decisions about your medical treatment without first talking to your doctor.
www.brookejeffymd.com 
https://quiz.healthspanmd.com/  
For more information and to schedule an appointment, visit HealthspanMD.com or call 480-847-2575. 
Connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube 
This show is produced by Mathew Blades and Integrity Media Solutions  LLC 

Overcoming Adversity and Building Resilience with Dean Tolson, former NBA player

In this episode of The Healthspan Podcast, Dr. Robert Todd Hurst, MD, FACC, FASE, explores the essential quality of resilience and how it shapes longevity and quality of life. Joining him is Dean Tolson, a former NBA player, author, and educator, who shares his remarkable story of overcoming illiteracy and systemic challenges to achieve personal and professional success. Dean reveals how resilience, perseverance, and education transformed his life and offers insights on how others can harness these traits to thrive. 
Key Timestamps: 
[00:00] - Dr. Robert Todd Hurst, MD, FACC, FASE introduces the podcast and today’s guest, Dean Tolson. 
[02:22] - Dean’s early life challenges: poverty, systemic barriers, and resilience. 
[04:51] - Dean’s mother’s role in instilling discipline and a pivotal conversation that changed his trajectory. 
[09:40] - Overcoming illiteracy and finding inspiration through mentorship. 
[16:49] - The role of focus, discipline, and attitude in achieving personal and health goals. 
[21:39] - Dean’s ongoing work with youth and the transformative power of education. 
[28:40] - How self-confidence and perseverance can help overcome life’s obstacles. 
[30:50] - Where to find Dean’s book and his message to empower youth across America. 
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Don't make any decisions about your medical treatment without first talking to your doctor.
Deantolson.com  
https://quiz.healthspanmd.com/  
For more information and to schedule an appointment, visit HealthspanMD.com or call 480-847-2575. 
Connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube 
This show is produced by Mathew Blades and Integrity Media Solutions  LLC