Small blood vessels matter too | Michael Hill, PhD

Episode #319. Join me today as I sit down with a very special guest: my dad, Professor Michael Hill, PhD. Dad’s journey as a scientist has inspired my own work and taken our family across the globe, and I’m honoured to host him as he shares his story from early career discoveries to current research. As well as getting an inside look at Dr Hill’s academic career, you’ll learn about microvasculature (very small blood vessels), including what they are and how they impact human health. Dad also shares his experience with a heart attack, offers advice on preventing atherosclerosis, and weighs in on the Ozempic and vaping conversations. Specifically, we discuss: Introduction (00:00) Childhood Memories and Early Interests (03:19) Pursuing a Career in Biochemistry (08:36) Microvasculature and Diabetes Research (12:12) Early Research on Investigating Blood Properties and Diabetes (17:44) Family Stories and Moving to the U.S. (28:47) Returning to Australia and Continued Research (36:39) Exploring Microvessel Behaviours: Research at RMIT (41:34) Dealing with Health Challenges and Maintaining Work-Life Balance (46:20) Understanding Microvascular Functions and Cardiac Health (50:32) Exploring Vessel Constriction and Small Blockages: A Closer Look (01:00:15) Understanding the Impact of Large Arterial Stiffness on Vascular Health (01:07:01) Identifying Risk Factors: A Comprehensive Approach to Vascular Well-being (01:11:01) Personal Views on the Evolution of Scientific Research Access (01:19:39) Returning to the USA: Advancing Research on Blood Vessel Mechanisms (01:21:58) COVID-19 and Metabolic Syndromes: Exploring the Early Research Connections (01:27:30) Current Research and Future Directions (01:29:29) Reflecting on a Career Dedicated to Science: Family, Achievements, and Future Directions (01:34:48) If you’re interested in learning more about Dad’s work and career, head to his profile here. This episode is brought to you by: 38TERA Consider 38TERA's DMN-01 prebiotic supplement a daily multivitamin for your gut. Formulated by yours truly and gastroenterologist Dr Will Bulsiewicz. Use code THEPROOF for a discount at checkout. Eimele Eimele Essential 8 is a comprehensive multivitamin that is scientifically formulated to complement your plant-rich diet, increase and sustain your energy, and support the immune system, as well as heart and brain health. Head to Eimele.com and use code SIMON at checkout for 10% off your first order. BON CHARGE Enhance skin health, increase collagen production, and reverse sun damage with BON CHARGE, my choice of low-level light therapy. Holistic, evidence-based, premium products for healthier skin. Get started at boncharge.com and use code THEPROOF for a 15% discount. Shopify Shopify, the world's leading e-commerce platform, helps you turn browsers into buyers with the internet’s best-converting check out–up to 36% better compared to other leading e-commerce platforms. To boost your conversion rate, and grow your business, sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/proof. Cozy Earth Sleep better and cooler with Cozy Earth, the softest science-backed sheets on the market. With a 10-year warranty, 100-day trial period, and ethical production, Cozy Earth is my favourite easy way to improve my rest and recovery. Use code SIMON at cozyearth.com for up to 35% off. Want to support the show? The best way to support the show is to use the products and services offered by our sponsors. To check them out, and enjoy great savings, visit theproof.com/friends. You can also show your support by leaving a review on the Apple Podcast app and/or sharing your favourite episodes with your friends and family. Simon Hill, MSc, BSc (Hons) Creator of theproof.com and host of The Proof with Simon Hill Author of The Proof is in the Plants