Episode #205: Plant Medicine (Kambo) for Mental and Physical Health with Caitlin Thompson

Today, let's talk about immune support. With the festive season and colder months upon us, it's the perfect time to focus on practical strategies to help you build a resilient, balanced immune system. I share not only the science-backed basics—like sleep, stress management, and the realities of sugar and alcohol—but also my favorite low-tech tools and innovative supplements for fortifying your body's natural defenses.   Studies Mentioned: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39544655/ https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9471313/   Supplements Mentioned: XClear Nasal Spray BeeKeepers Naturals Throat Spray (Bee propolis) Manukora: Manuka Honey (save up to 31%) Puori: Terrific Vitamin C Effervescent Tablets includes Zinc, D3, Yerba Matte, Ginseng - use in the am (use code NAT for 20% off) Troscriptions - TroMMune, TroCalm, TroZZ (use NAT10, and get 10% off your first order) JustThrive: Spore Biotics (use code NAT20 for 20% off) LVLUP Health:Ultimate GI Repair (use code NAT at checkout for 20% off) Healthgevity: ImmunoRESTORE+ (use code LONGEVITY) Bioregulators: Pineal Gland and Thymus (use code LONGEVITY15 for 15% off )   Episode Timestamps: Intro and offers ... 00:00:00 Balancing the immune system vs. boosting ... 00:01:32 Risks of an overactive immune response ... 00:02:55 Lifestyle practices for immune health ... 00:03:38 Sleep's role and practical sleep tips ... 00:04:41 Sugar's impact on immunity ... 00:09:05 Alcohol, mocktails, and immune suppression ... 00:15:26 Managing stress for immune support ... 00:18:19 Summary of key lifestyle strategies ... 00:24:36 Exercise: benefits and moderation ... 00:26:26 Top supplements for immune support ... 00:28:59 Propolis, Manuka honey, vitamins and probiotics ... 00:29:34 Bioregulators and peptide support ... 00:38:42 Sauna and light therapy for winter immunity ... 00:40:01 Take action before the holiday season ... 00:42:28   Our Amazing Sponsors: NootroPept by LVLUP: an advanced cognitive enhancement formula that combines fast-acting neuropeptides, cholinergic support, and mitochondrial-boosting compounds to sharpen mental clarity, memory, and long-term brain performance. Visit https://lvluphealth.com/ and use code NAT at checkout for 20% off.   Nat's Links:  YouTube Channel Join My Membership Community Sign up for My Newsletter  Instagram  Facebook Group

7 Marras 45min

Today, I'm joined by Austin Mao, a serial entrepreneur whose personal journey with plant medicine led him from the high-pressure, Instagram-perfect startup world to founding Ceremonia—one of the leading psychedelic organizations in the U.S. In this candid conversation, Austin shares how a transformative psilocybin ceremony unraveled the layers of ego, revealing new depths of presence, embodiment, and emotional healing.   Episode Timestamps: Austin's first plant medicine ceremony: ego, healing, and memories ... 00:06:28 Uncovering childhood trauma and learning presence ... 00:08:34 Motivations for plant medicine: curiosity, networking, and pride ... 00:13:46 Core lessons: ego, external vs. internal fulfillment ... 00:14:57 Comparing ayahuasca and psilocybin: safety, access, and tradition ... 00:18:27 Facilitator training and role in psychedelic experiences ... 00:24:48 Purging, meaning-making, and emotional release in ceremony ... 00:27:39 Psychedelics and mental health: impact and effectiveness ... 00:31:27 Retreat model: psilocybin first, ayahuasca later ... 00:37:20 The crucial role of integration post-ceremony ... 00:41:00 Ceremonia's offerings: retreats, online integration, and microdosing ... 00:47:59   Our Amazing Sponsors: Nature's Marvels - Thymus & Pineal BioRegulators - The Thymus Bioregulator helps keep immune response balanced and small human studies in older adults link it with healthier immune markers and fewer seasonal respiratory issues. The Pineal Bioregulator supports your natural melatonin/circadian rhythm—key when schedules and daylight change—so you get the kind of sleep that underpins immune resilience. Head to profound-health.com and use code LONGEVITY15 for 15% off your first order.   BTS2 Sunlamp by Mitolux - When your skin makes vitamin D from UVB light, it also creates natural companion molecules that help your body use it smarter—so you're not just boosting levels, you're activating your biology the way nature intended. Visit mitolux.com/NAT10. You'll receive 10% off! NAT10 will be automatically applied at checkout. NEW Timeline Gummies: Urolithin A supports muscle strength and cellular energy. It's about improving how your body functions at the source. Mitopure is the only clinically proven Urolithin A, giving you six times more than you'd get from a glass of pomegranate juice. Visit Timeline.com/nat20 and use code nat20 for 20% off your purchase. Timeline.com/nat20   Nat's Links:  YouTube Channel Join My Membership Community Sign up for My Newsletter  Instagram  Facebook Group

4 Marras 52min

Today, I'm joined by Dr. Drew Taylor, a trailblazer in regenerative medicine and the innovative force behind Acorn Biolabs. Dr. Taylor's path is anything but ordinary—he went from pitching in professional baseball to pioneering non-invasive ways to collect and preserve the body's most potent cells, all sourced from our hair follicles. His journey is a testament to the power of curiosity, resilience, and the drive to use cutting-edge science for better health and longevity. ONE-FREE Year of Hair Follicle Banking: Whether it's for present use or future use, you get one full year of free banking. All you have to do is find a clinic that offers Acorn near you, sign up for your hair follicle harvest, and then go to acorn.me/nat and use code NAT at checkout to get one free year of banking. Episode Timestamps: Dr. Drew Taylor's journey: pro athlete to stem cell science ... 00:06:24 Transition from sports to regenerative medicine ... 00:09:45 Advances in stem cell therapy and cell reprogramming ... 00:11:01 Donor vs. autologous stem cell differences ... 00:12:12 Stem cell hierarchy and pluripotency explained ... 00:19:00 Limits of biological age tests ... 00:23:27 Non-invasive harvesting from hair follicles ... 00:27:36 Advantages of hair follicle cells ... 00:30:10 Age and timing for cell banking ... 00:33:02 Wound healing case study with secretome ... 00:38:19 Secretome, exosomes, and topical treatment potential ... 00:40:43 Hair regrowth and transplant support ... 00:52:12 Accessibility and affordability of Acorn's approach ... 00:56:40 Cryopreservation as a "biological insurance policy" ... 00:59:42 Microneedling and aesthetic results ... 01:00:39 Future uses: sports injuries, immune cells, organ regeneration ... 01:04:30 Final advice for longevity and health span ... 01:13:16 How to access Acorn's services ... 01:15:18 Our Amazing Sponsors: Puori - Minimally processed, made from pasture-raised cows' milk, and it's tested for over 200 contaminants every single batch. Go to Puori.com/NAT and use code NAT for 20% off— it also applies to subscriptions so you'll get nearly a third off the price. Kineon - Near-infrared light helps improve circulation, oxygen delivery, and mitochondrial function, which can support focus, recovery, and even overall brain health. Visit kineon.io/NATNIDDAM and get 10% off! Digestive Bitters by Just Thrive - One capsule before eating helps your body absorb more nutrients, ease digestion, and leave you feeling light instead of weighed down. Head over to Justthrivehealth.com/discount/NAT and use code NAT20 for 20% off. Nat's Links: YouTube Channel Join My Membership Community Sign up for My Newsletter Instagram Facebook Group

31 Loka 1h 17min

Today, I'm thrilled to welcome Dr. Amy Killen, a visionary in hormone optimization and regenerative medicine who is transforming the conversation around women's health and longevity. In this episode, Dr. Killen shares her personal journey—from witnessing her mother's struggle after a hip fracture, to becoming a steadfast advocate for correcting the myths and misinformation that still surround estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone optimization. Episode Timestamps: Ferritin, iron, and hormonal health basics ... 00:00:43 Dr. Amy Killen's evolving hormone focus ... 00:04:02 Women's Health Initiative and estrogen myths ... 00:06:31 Importance of hormone optimization vs. stem cells ... 00:10:25 Testosterone for women: symptoms, labs, delivery options ... 00:12:05 Side effects and nuances of testosterone therapy ... 00:14:01 SHBG, free testosterone, and lab variability ... 00:16:38 Libido, PT-141, and the biopsychosocial lens ... 00:21:46 Iron and ferritin: sweet spot and skin implications ... 00:29:16 Hot vs. HRT: definitions and individualization ... 00:34:23 Debunking estrogen and breast cancer myths ... 00:41:30 Aging expectations and finding the right doctor ... 00:43:18 Advice for women by decade—20s, 30s, 40s, etc. ... 00:47:20 Our Amazing Sponsors: Tro Zzz by Troscriptions - This isn't just melatonin—it's a powerhouse! Oblipair gives you honokiol and agarin to enhance GABA binding, while adenosine and cordycepin boost sleep drive and deep sleep. CBD, CBN, and 5‑HTP round it out. Head to troscriptions.com, use NAT10, and get 10% off your first order. NMN+G Rx by Wizard Sciences - A scientifically formulated blend of NMN, ginsenosides from Panax ginseng, and apigenin. Together, they enhance mitochondrial function, boost NAD+ levels, and support cellular repair. Go to wizardsciences.com and look for NMN+G. Use code NAT15 at checkout to get 15% off your purchase. Probiotic Breakthrough by Bioptimizers: uses a stress-tested Lactobacillus plantarum strain that showed over 30× greater survival in bile and intestinal fluid vs. generic strains. Save 15% at bioptimizers.com/bionat and use code BIONAT for 15% off any order. Nat's Links: YouTube Channel Join My Membership Community Sign up for My Newsletter Instagram Facebook Group

28 Loka 53min

Today, I'm joined by the pioneering duo behind Young Goose and two of the earliest voices to bring longevity science into the world of skincare. Amitay comes from the red light therapy space, while Anastasia's background is rooted in cancer research and regenerative medicine—together, their bold thesis is that youthful skin is not just about appearance, it's an energy state. Visit YoungGoose.com—use code NAT10 to get started, or 5NAT if you're an existing customer. Episode Timestamps: Skin longevity: appearance vs resilience vs long-term health ... 00:06:42 Why topical NAD matters for skin ... 00:14:07 Importance and decline of NAD as we age ... 00:18:26 Why spermidine was added to skincare ... 00:21:00 How spermidine drives autophagy and hydration ... 00:25:43 Spermidine's impact on wrinkles and skin barrier ... 00:29:06 Longevity skincare vs traditional approaches ... 00:31:18 Methylene blue's unique benefits and formulation ... 00:34:04 Methylene blue vs other antioxidants ... 00:36:16 Methylene blue's role in recovery and protection ... 00:46:13 Platelet-derived, quantified exosomes explained ... 00:51:44 How to layer exosomes in your skincare ... 01:01:13 Biggest myths in skin longevity ... 01:02:41 Does topical NAD and spermidine really work? ... 01:08:28 Where to start with Young Goose products ... 01:19:33 Our Amazing Sponsors: Digestive Bitters by Just Thrive - One capsule before eating helps your body absorb more nutrients, ease digestion, and leave you feeling light instead of weighed down. Head over to Justthrivehealth.com/discount/NAT and use code NAT20 for 20% off. Puori: It's minimally processed, made from pasture-raised cows' milk, and it's tested for over 200 contaminants every single batch. It's also very Yummy! Go to Puori.com/NAT and use code NAT for 20% off— it also applies to subscriptions so you'll get nearly a third off the price. Thymus & Pineal BioRegulators by Natures Marvels - Thymus Bioregulator helps keep immune response balanced and small human studies in older adults link it with healthier immune markers and fewer seasonal respiratory issues. Pineal Bioregulator supports your natural melatonin/circadian rhythm so you get the kind of sleep that underpins immune resilience. Head to profound-health.com and use code LONGEVITY15 for 15% off your first order. Nat's Links: YouTube Channel Join My Membership Community Sign up for My Newsletter Instagram Facebook Group

24 Loka 1h 25min

Today, I'm joined by Omid Moghadam, a serial inventor and biotech entrepreneur whose fascination with innovation has led him from the world of imaging and semiconductors to groundbreaking advancements in cancer screening. Omid shares how personal experiences—including his mother's battle with cancer and his own early diagnosis—sparked his relentless drive to build better tools for early cancer detection. Visit https://auria.care/ and use code NAT20 to save 20% off Auria Episode Timestamps: Omid Moghadam's path from tech to biotech ... 00:05:05 Personal cancer stories fueling innovation ... 00:09:58 How tears enable advanced screening for breast cancer ... 00:11:16 Advantages and affordability of tear-based testing ... 00:13:48 AI's role in developing Auria ... 00:16:35 Screening vs. diagnostic—key distinctions ... 00:20:12 Early detection and functional medicine approaches ... 00:27:25 Challenges with current breast cancer screening ... 00:39:15 Future directions: more cancer screens and radiopharmaceuticals ... 00:48:31 Accessing Auria and company discount ... 01:01:16 Our Amazing Sponsors: NEW Timeline Gummies: Urolithin A supports muscle strength and cellular energy. It's about improving how your body functions at the source. Mitopure is the only clinically proven Urolithin A, giving you six times more than you'd get from a glass of pomegranate juice. Visit Timeline.com/nat20 and use code nat20 for 20% off your purchase. Qualia Senolytic - A cutting-edge formula designed to help your body eliminate senescent cells, also known as "zombie cells." Go to qualialife.com/NATHALIE and use promo code NATHALIE to get 15% off—and try it risk-free with their 100-day money-back guarantee. Manukora honey - From remote forests in New Zealand, where bees collect nectar from the native Manuka tea tree. That nectar is naturally rich in antibacterial compounds like MGO, plus antioxidants and prebiotics that support immunity and gut health. Visit manukora.com/NAT to save up to 31% plus $25 worth of free gifts with the Starter Kit - you'll get an MGO 850+ Manuka Honey jar, 5 travel sticks, a wooden spoon, and a guidebook. Nat's Links: YouTube Channel Join My Membership Community Sign up for My Newsletter Instagram Facebook Group

21 Loka 1h 3min

Today, I'm sitting down with two true pioneers in the health optimization space: microbiologist Kiran Krishnan from Just Thrive, and Forrest Smith, founder of Kineon. In this episode, we bridge two often separate worlds—gut health and photobiomodulation—to explore what happens when you combine spore-based probiotics with red and near-infrared light therapy. You'll hear about the unexpected links between the gut and brain, the pivotal role of leaky gut in everything from neurodegeneration to hormone imbalance, and why Forrest started experimenting with shining red light directly on his abdomen. Whether you're looking to optimize your longevity, support immunity, or simply understand how foundational gut health really is, this conversation is packed with practical strategies, cutting-edge insights, and a fresh perspective on the interconnectedness of our bodies. • Visit Justthrivehealth.com/discount/NAT and use code NAT20 for 20% off sitewide. • Visit https://kineon.io/NATNIDDAM for 10% off! Episode Timestamps: Gut Health, Probiotics & Red/Near Infrared Light ... 00:03:43 Forrest's Red Light Gut Experiment ... 00:04:45 The Gut-Brain Axis & Neurodegeneration ... 00:09:20 Leaky Gut and Systemic Inflammation ... 00:13:09 GLP-1 Impacts on Gut-Brain Communication ... 00:19:32 Endotoxins, Inflammation & Brain Health ... 00:23:47 Synergy: Probiotics Plus Red Light ... 00:31:16 Microbes & Light: Evolutionary Health Foundations ... 00:31:38 Mucosal Lining and Phototherapy ... 00:36:33 Spore-Based Probiotics: Why They Matter ... 00:40:26 Universal Colonizers & Gut Health ... 00:49:32 Gut-Skin Axis, Environmental Factors, Phototherapy ... 00:55:50 Biohacking: Mimicking Nature ... 01:02:20 Endocrine Disruption & Gut Connection ... 01:03:02 Vagus Nerve: Two-Way Highway & Stimulation ... 01:09:34 Practical Tips: Who Should Use These Tools ... 01:20:52 Digestive Bitters: Simple, Upstream Fix ... 01:27:59 Myths About Probiotics & Red Light ... 01:33:10 Our Amazing Sponsors: MitoQ - is a breakthrough in cellular health, built on 20 plus years of research. Its patented molecule, mitoquinol, is the first antioxidant engineered to target your mitochondria directly. Visit mitoq.com and use code NAT for an extra 10% off at checkout. Thymus & Pineal BioRegulators by Profound Health - Thymus Bioregulator helps keep immune response balanced and small human studies in older adults link it with healthier immune markers and fewer seasonal respiratory issues. Pineal Bioregulator supports your natural melatonin/circadian rhythm so you get the kind of sleep that underpins immune resilience. Head to profound-health.com and use code LONGEVITY15 for 15% off your first order. Body Cream by Young Goose - Powered by NAD+ APEX, CelVio Spermidine, and targeted peptides, this advanced formula restores cellular energy, supports collagen production, and enhances skin resilience. It clears cellular waste, improves skin texture, and deeply hydrates areas where aging shows most—like arms, legs, neck, and décolleté. Visit YoungGoose.com—use code NAT10 to get started, or 5NAT if you're an existing customer. Nat's Links: YouTube Channel Join My Membership Community Sign up for My Newsletter Instagram Facebook Group

17 Loka 1h 40min

Today, I'm diving solo into a topic that's both fascinating and a little bit spooky—senescent cells, also known as "zombie cells." Understanding zombie cells is a crucial piece of the puzzle if you want to feel younger, stronger, and more resilient as you age. In this episode, I unpack what senescent cells are, why they're not just harmless bystanders, and how their buildup can accelerate the aging process and drive chronic inflammation—one of the hallmarks of aging. I break down the lifestyle habits that might be quietly increasing your zombie cell load, the early warning signs your body could be giving you, and most importantly, the evidence-backed interventions you can start using right now—from exercise and diet, to cutting-edge supplements, peptides, and more. Episode Timestamps: What are Senescent ("Zombie") Cells and Why They Matter ... 00:00:36 Key Causes and Lifestyle Factors Driving Senescence ... 00:02:40 Dietary Strategies: Mediterranean Diet, Protein, and Polyphenols ... 00:08:57 How Zombie Cells Disrupt Tissue and Drive Chronic Disease ... 00:13:37 Symptoms Linked to Excess Senescent Cells ... 00:20:58 Challenges in Measuring Senescent Cells ... 00:23:31 Senescent Cells: Helpful in Healing, Harmful in Excess ... 00:30:39 Senolytics and Senostatics: Drugs and Natural Compounds ... 00:36:14 Lifestyle and Supplement Strategies to Reduce Zombie Cells ... 00:39:14 Peptides for Advanced Senescence Management ... 00:48:09 Our Amazing Sponsors: Probiotic Breakthrough by Bioptimizers: uses a stress-tested Lactobacillus plantarum strain that showed over 30× greater survival in bile and intestinal fluid vs. generic strains. Save 15% at bioptimizers.com/bionat and use code BIONAT for 15% off any order. Nat's Links: YouTube Channel Join My Membership Community Sign up for My Newsletter Instagram Facebook Group

14 Loka 31min