Modern Thyroid and Wellness

3d ago

What if true longevity isn’t about treating disease after it appears, but about tracking the right data early and becoming the CEO of your own health? In this episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness , McCall McPherson sits down with Dr. Darshan Shah, MD , board-certified surgeon, published author, and co-founder of NEXT|HEALTH , the fastest-growing health optimization and longevity clinic network. Together, they explore why the current medical system is built to manage illness rather than create health, and what it truly means to take a proactive, data-driven approach to longevity. Dr. Shah shares his personal journey from burnout, autoimmune disease, and multiple medications to reclaiming his health through nutrition, movement, functional medicine, and biomarker tracking. This conversation is a powerful reminder that prevention, early intervention, and personal accountability are the foundations of long-term vitality. In This Episode, You Will Learn • Why traditional medicine excels at emergency care but falls short in creating long-term health • How Dr. Shah reversed autoimmune disease and reduced his medications through lifestyle and data • What it means to be the CEO of your own health • Why most routine lab work misses early warning signs of chronic disease • The difference between “normal” lab ranges and optimal health markers • Which biomarkers matter most for preventing chronic illness • Why hemoglobin A1C is one of the most important indicators of long-term health • How metabolic dysfunction develops years before symptoms appear • Why quarterly data tracking is more powerful than annual lab testing • How wearables, grip strength, and body composition predict longevity • When people should start monitoring biomarkers for healthspan and lifespan • The three non-negotiable habits Dr. Shah credits for his health transformation Key Topics Discussed • Reactive medicine vs proactive health optimization • Early detection of chronic disease through biomarkers • Metabolic health and insulin resistance • Inflammation as a root cause of disease • Healthspan vs lifespan • Patient empowerment and data literacy • Strength training and muscle mass as longevity markers • Sleep, stress, and nervous system regulation • Building sustainable habits that compound over time Dr. Shah’s Three Non-Negotiables for Longevity • A protected morning routine that includes movement, mental wellness, and reflection • Strength training as a priority over cardio when time is limited • Creating distance from phones at night to reduce stress and improve sleep quality About Dr. Darshan Shah, MD Dr. Darshan Shah is a board-certified surgeon, health optimization expert, and co-founder of NEXT|HEALTH , a nationwide network of longevity and wellness clinics focused on prevention, performance, and personalized care. After experiencing severe health decline himself, Dr. Shah pursued advanced training in nutrition, exercise physiology, and functional medicine, leading to a complete transformation of his health and clinical approach. Resources & Links 🌐 NEXT|HEALTH https://www.next-health.com 📱 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/darshanshahmd/ 💼 LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/darshanshahmd/ 📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness 💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel 📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa

Dec 11

What if the path to healing after deep loss begins with understanding exactly what your body needs to feel steady, supported, and whole again? In this deeply personal first episode back, McCall opens up about the recent loss of her brother and how grief has affected her health, energy, sleep, and daily rhythms. She answers one of the most requested questions from her community by walking listeners through her full supplement and medication routine, sharing exactly what she takes, why she takes it, and how each product supports different aspects of her health. From thyroid medication and mitochondrial support to hair repair, gut health, sleep aids, and antioxidants, McCall explains the purpose behind every item in her morning and evening stacks. She offers practical insight into how she is supporting her body through grief, fatigue, inflammation, and stress. She closes the episode with gratitude for the immense support she has received and a reminder to cherish loved ones and prioritize self care during life’s hardest moments. Key Topics Covered • How grief impacts energy, sleep, cognition, and metabolic health • McCall’s complete morning supplement stack and medication routine • Thyroid medications and why she takes desiccated thyroid and micro dose lithium • The role of mitochondrial support in chronic fatigue and long term energy • Hair repair strategies including supplements, minoxidil, and nutrient support • Gut health tools including probiotics, digestive enzymes, and glutathione • Evening supplements for sleep, anxiety relief, and nervous system regulation • How and when she uses targeted supplements like stem cell support, NAD precursors, antioxidants, and focus gummies • Practical tips for choosing quality supplements and dosing wisely • Emotional reflections on loss, gratitude, and community support In This Episode, You Will Learn • What McCall takes daily for thyroid function and energy • How she layers mitochondrial support, from methylene blue to Timeline Nutrition • Her personal experience with hair loss, bleaching damage, and repair protocols • Why probiotic choice matters and which brands she trusts • How grief and stress shape supplement needs • Her full nighttime routine including progesterone, glutathione, sleep supports, and trazodone • Supplements she uses only as needed and why • How she sequences her routine to maximize absorption and function 📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness 💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel 📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa

Nov 27

What if a few simple shifts in how you eat, move, and rest could completely change the way your body handles the holidays? In this solo episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness, host McCall McPherson shares ten science backed holiday hacks to help you enjoy the festive season without sacrificing your health or energy. From reducing inflammation and stabilizing blood sugar to improving sleep, alcohol choices, and recovery habits, these simple strategies are especially valuable for anyone navigating thyroid issues, autoimmune conditions, or metabolic challenges. Instead of entering the new year feeling depleted, inflamed, and exhausted, McCall offers practical tools to help you stay vibrant, grounded, and well all season long. Key Topics Covered • How holidays trigger inflammation and antibody spikes • Antioxidants and glutathione support for immune balance • The Food Flow Formula for optimal blood sugar control • Post meal walking and metabolic impacts • Magnesium and glycine for improved sleep and insulin sensitivity • Strength training as a metabolic and inflammatory buffer • Using polyphenols to slow glucose absorption • How to choose clean alcohol sources that minimize inflammation • Meal timing and why stopping three hours before bed matters • The power of light management and circadian support • Why intentional rest is critical for thyroid and adrenal recovery In This Episode, You Will Learn • How to reduce post meal glucose spikes by up to 75 percent • Why hypothyroid bodies gain weight more easily during the holidays • The science behind sleep timing, growth hormone, and recovery • Why walking after meals functions like natural insulin • What alcohol choices are least inflammatory and why wine sourcing matters • How to prevent fatigue, brain fog, and metabolic crashes Practical Hacks Shared in the Episode • Eat protein and fiber first, save carbs for last • Walk 20 minutes within 30 minutes after meals • Take 200 mg magnesium and 3 g glycine before bed • Strength train 30 to 60 minutes before big meals • Pair meals with polyphenols like green tea or red wine • Avoid California wines and choose Italian Piedmont wines or Blanco tequila • Stop eating three hours before bed to improve insulin and sleep • Dim lights before bedtime and avoid screens • Plan downtime after busy events to reset inflammation and adrenal function Episode Takeaways • Small choices compounded over time radically change holiday health outcomes • Thyroid and metabolic health require proactive strategies • Enjoy the holidays and indulge intentionally without paying the price • Protecting your blood sugar protects your energy, mood, and immunity Listen Now and Share If this episode supports you, share it with a friend or loved one who wants to enjoy the holidays without inflammation, weight gain, or exhaustion. Subscribe and leave a review to help others discover life changing thyroid support. 📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness 💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel 📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa

Nov 20

What if your “normal” thyroid labs are anything but normal—and the symptoms you’re told to ignore are actually warning signs to act now? In this solo episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness , host McCall McPherson delivers a passionate and research-backed message on the overlooked dangers of subclinical hypothyroidism. Often labeled as “mild” due to its definition—elevated TSH with normal T4—this condition is far from benign for many patients. McCall dives into the flaws in conventional guidelines that delay treatment until symptoms worsen or labs change, ignoring the lived experience of countless individuals. Drawing on both clinical expertise and personal insights, McCall outlines the potential consequences of under-treatment, including mental health decline, metabolic issues, and autoimmune progression. She makes a compelling case for earlier, personalized intervention and combination therapies that include T3—not just the standard levothyroxine. This episode is a call to action for patients and providers alike to rethink what subclinical really means, and to prioritize outcomes over outdated lab thresholds. 🔑 Key Topics Covered Why the term “subclinical” is misleading and often harmful How untreated or under-treated hypothyroidism can lead to serious long-term health problems The gap between lab values and symptom reality Problems with current treatment standards and TSH thresholds The limitations of levothyroxine as a standalone therapy The role of combination therapy including T3 Why early intervention matters, even with “normal” labs How personalized treatment plans improve quality of life A call for a patient-centered, symptom-informed approach to thyroid care 📣 Episode Takeaways Subclinical doesn’t mean insignificant. It often is clinical for the person experiencing it. Waiting for TSH to rise or T4 to fall is a reactive, not proactive, medical strategy. Combination therapy with T3 can dramatically improve outcomes in the right patients. Treat the person , not just the paper. 🎧 Listen Now & Share! If this episode resonated with you or someone you care about, please share it. Subscribe to Modern Thyroid and Wellness on your favorite podcast app and leave a review to help others discover this critical information. 📲 Follow McCall McPherson & Modern Thyroid and Wellness 💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 📺 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel 📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa

Nov 13

Could hidden toxins, stress, and gut imbalances be at the root of your thyroid issues—and the reason true healing still feels out of reach? In this powerful episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness , host McCall sits down with Taylor Dukes, a board-certified nurse practitioner and founder of Taylor Dukes Wellness. Taylor shares her deeply personal and inspiring story—one that began with her own health collapse, transformed through functional medicine, and took a dramatic turn when she was unexpectedly diagnosed with a brain tumor. Her journey through healing, brain surgery, and recovery has led her to become a powerful advocate for integrative care, nervous system regulation, and detoxification. They discuss the connections between thyroid health, gut function, toxin overload, and emotional regulation. Taylor also breaks down practical, sustainable detox strategies, the role of nervous system support in chronic illness, and how women can learn to advocate for themselves in a healthcare system that often overlooks them. Whether you're navigating thyroid issues, burnout, or simply looking for holistic lifestyle upgrades, this episode is packed with hope, insight, and actionable advice. Key Topics Covered: Taylor’s two-part health journey: from gut and thyroid issues to a brain tumor diagnosis and recovery The emotional toll of being dismissed by traditional medical systems—and how to self-advocate How environmental toxins and endocrine disruptors contribute to thyroid dysfunction The power of simple, daily detox habits: laundry swaps, clean water, clean air, and skincare What effective detox actually looks like (hint: it’s not a juice cleanse) How gut health directly impacts thyroid hormone conversion, nutrient absorption, and immunity Daily habits for supporting detox: castor oil packs, dry brushing, sweating, and movement Why nervous system regulation is the missing link in healing protocols Free medicine: grounding, breathwork, infrared light, and calming routines How Taylor built a new life and business that prioritizes peace, purpose, and service Connect with Taylor Dukes: 💻 Website: TaylorDukesWellness.com 📷 Instagram: @taylordukeswellness Follow the Show: 💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 Twitter/X: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 🎥 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel 📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa

Nov 6

Could your daily screen time be quietly disrupting your hormones, vision, and emotional balance without you realizing it? In this episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness , McCall sits down with Dr. Meenal Agarwal , a board-certified optometrist, to explore the powerful connection between eye health, brain function, hormonal balance , and digital wellness . Drawing on her personal story and clinical insights, Dr. Agarwal explains how our modern, screen-filled lives are impacting everything from sleep to stress to spatial awareness. You'll learn how blue light exposure disrupts hormone cycles, why early presbyopia is on the rise, and how the eyes offer a window into systemic health—including thyroid disorders. Plus, Dr. Agarwal shares simple but transformative strategies like the 20-20-20 rule, visual breaks, and mindful movement to protect your eyes, brain, and emotional regulation. Whether you're a chronic screen scroller or noticing subtle shifts in your vision, this conversation will empower you to take better care of your whole self—starting with your eyes. 👩‍⚕️ About Dr. Meenal Agarwal Dr. Meenal Agarwal is a board-certified optometrist and the founder of Uncover Your Eye , a podcast and platform championing the role of vision in cognition, spatial awareness, and long-term health. Diagnosed with glaucoma at age 11, Dr. Agarwal brings both personal experience and deep clinical knowledge to her unique, holistic approach—blending optometry, mindfulness, and lifestyle medicine to improve lives in a screen-dominated world. 🔑 Key Topics Covered How digital screens affect sleep, hormones, and the brain The 20-20-20 Rule: a simple yet powerful visual reset technique Blue light myths: what’s true and what’s overhyped The underestimated importance of visual breaks and morning sunlight Why early presbyopia and nearsightedness are spiking in younger generations How hormonal shifts during menopause and thyroid dysfunction impact the eyes Spatial awareness, balance, and the peripheral vision crisis How screen time affects cognitive health and emotional regulation Dr. Agarwal’s personal journey with eye strain, anxiety, and digital detoxing Actionable tools to restore eye-brain-body balance ✅ Practical Tools & Advice 20-20-20 Rule : Every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds Digital Detox at Night : Avoid screens 1–2 hours before bed to protect melatonin and sleep quality Get Morning Sunlight : 10–20 minutes without sunglasses supports circadian rhythm Spatial Movement : Regular movement restores peripheral vision and balance Rethink Blue Light Glasses : Not all are created equal—look for 30–40% filtration with anti-reflective coating 🧠 Eye-Opening Facts By 2050, 50% of the global population is projected to be nearsighted Dry eyes are a leading symptom of hormonal changes and menopause Vision loss and balance issues may stem from peripheral vision neglect The retina is the only place in the body where blood vessels can be seen non-invasively—making eye exams critical for early detection of systemic illness 🔗 Links & Resources 🌐 Dr. Minal Agarwal 💻 Website / Clinic : drmeenal.com – Pickering Town Centre Optometric Clinic 📸 Instagram : @dr.meenalagarwal 💼 LinkedIn : Dr. Meenal Agarwal 📘 Facebook : Dr. Meenal Agarwal & Associates 🎙️ Podcast Host – McCall McPherson 💻 Website : mccallmcpherson.com 🌐 Clinic Website : modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter : @thyroidexpert 📘 Facebook : McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram : @mccallmcphersonpa 🎥 YouTube : McCall McPherson Channel

Oct 30

Can your thyroid and hormones really influence how your skin ages—or could your emotional health be part of the glow you’re missing? In this insightful episode of Modern Thyroid and Wellness , host McCall sits down with internationally renowned dermatologist Dr. Sabrina Fabi to explore the powerful intersection of thyroid health, skin aging, and emotional well-being. Drawing from both clinical expertise and her personal health journey, Dr. Fabi unpacks how hormonal imbalances—especially thyroid dysfunction—can deeply affect the skin, hair, and connective tissue . She also introduces us to the incredible science of oxytocin , the “love hormone,” and how it plays a surprising role in healing, emotional resilience, and even skin regeneration. As the founder of XOMD , a skincare line formulated with oxytocin, Dr. Fabi brings a fresh perspective on how beauty and medicine can work together to promote deep self-connection, healing, and confidence. Whether you’re facing thyroid-related skin issues or simply curious about the root causes of visible aging, this episode delivers science-backed, soul-nourishing insights for every listener. About Dr. Sabrina Fabi Dr. Sabrina Fabi is a board-certified dermatologist , international speaker, clinical researcher, and pioneer in laser and aesthetic dermatology. She’s globally recognized for her work in cosmetic skin rejuvenation and is the founder of XOMD , an oxytocin-based skincare line focused on supporting both emotional and physical well-being. Key Topics Covered How thyroid dysfunction impacts the skin, hair, and aging process The emotional toll of visible aging in women with chronic illness Oxytocin as a healing hormone: beyond love and connection Dr. Fabi’s personal journey through thyroid health struggles Why she created XOMD skincare and what makes it different How to recognize real self-care versus wellness marketing noise The link between trauma, stress, hormones, and outward appearance Why beauty and medicine aren’t mutually exclusive The role of patient-centered care in dermatology and thyroid health Actionable tips for navigating skin and hormonal changes as a woman Featured Resource XOMD Skincare Dr. Fabi’s oxytocin-based skincare line designed to support both skin regeneration and emotional wellness. 👉 Get 10% off with code MCCALL10XO at xomdskin.com Links and Resources: 💻 Website: modernthyroidclinic.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @thyroidexpert 🌐 Host Website: mccallmcpherson.com 🎥 YouTube: McCall McPherson Channel 📘 Facebook: McCall McPherson PAC 📸 Instagram (Host): @mccallmcphersonpa 💼 Connect with Dr. Sabrina Fabi on LinkedIn

Oct 23

Could your thinning hair be more than a cosmetic concern—perhaps a signal of hidden hormone, thyroid, or nutrient imbalances? In this must-listen episode of the Modern Thyroid and Wellness Podcast , host McCall McPherson sits down with functional medicine expert Dr. Breanne Kallonen to unravel the multifaceted causes of female hair loss. Together, they explore the often-overlooked connections between hormone imbalances, nutrient deficiencies, thyroid dysfunction, autoimmune disease, and metabolic stressors like insulin resistance. Breanne brings her experience working with high-achieving women to highlight why generic treatments fail—and how personalized lab work, optimal (not just “normal”) ranges, and foundational lifestyle shifts can lead to sustainable hair restoration. This conversation goes far beyond cosmetic concerns and positions hair loss as a valuable signal of deeper health imbalances. About the Guest Dr. Breanne Kallonen is a high-performing naturopath and founder dedicated to helping women reclaim their health, vitality, and confidence. With degrees in Biomedical Sciences and Naturopathy (earned by age 25), Breanne specializes in root-cause solutions for hormone, metabolic, and hair loss issues. She is also a coach for ambitious women who want to optimize both their health and high-performing lifestyle. Key Topics Covered The top causes of hair loss in women: low iron, vitamin D, hormone shifts, thyroid dysfunction, Hashimoto’s, stress, post-viral inflammation, insulin resistance Why "normal" lab values aren’t enough—what to look for in optimal ranges, especially for ferritin and thyroid The strong correlation between iron deficiency and genetic hair loss (androgenic alopecia) Comprehensive lab testing strategies: what to run, how to interpret, and why history matters The role of metabolic dysfunction (especially insulin resistance) in accelerating hair thinning Why many women are overprescribed testosterone —and how excess levels can backfire for hair health The connection between gut health, inflammation, and nutrient absorption Nutrition foundations : protein, fiber, vegetables, and identifying deficiencies Short-term interventions (like red light therapy or collagen) to stimulate follicle activity while working on root causes Importance of realistic timelines —what results you can expect in 3, 6, or 9 months depending on the root issue Practical Advice for Listeners Run comprehensive blood panels including TSH, Free T3/T4, ferritin, serum iron, insulin, vitamin D, and inflammatory markers Prioritize protein intake (100g/day minimum) and track it honestly for a few days Focus on metabolic flexibility —avoid extremes in diet unless indicated by labs Address sleep, hydration, stress perception, and movement as foundational support Be cautious with high-dose testosterone pellets or HRT —work with a clinician who monitors blood levels and risks Expect 6–9 months for meaningful hair regrowth depending on the underlying cause—this is a long-term game 📲 Follow the Show 💻 Website: https://modernthyroidclinic.com 📸 Instagram: @modernthyroidclinic