Optimized Health

In Part 2 of our end of year round table, we sit down with Optimize U women’s health providers Laura Chastain, Amanda Shelton, and Ashley Johnson for a meaningful conversation on thyroid health, PCOS, perimenopause, menopause, and what it looks like to support women through every stage of hormonal change. They share the personal experiences that shaped their careers, the mission behind their work,...

Welcome to Part 1 of our End of Year Special at the Optimized Health Podcast. In this episode our male providers Josh Porter, Matt Hughes, and Justin Edwards sit down together to share how they each discovered their passion for hormones, preventative care, and helping people reclaim their lives. You’ll hear how this work hasn’t just shaped their careers. It has transformed their own personal healt...

Have you ever wondered what your true purpose in life is , or why motivation fades when the “big moments” are behind you? In this episode, Pastor Matty Finley from Silverdale Baptist joins The Optimized Health Podcast to talk about mindset, and how the way you think can transform your health, fitness, and everyday life. We dive deep into: • Understanding your “why” and creating lasting habits • Fi...

Do you wait until you’re in pain before seeing a chiropractor? In this episode of The Optimized Health Podcast, we sit down with John Fee, owner of Key to Change Wellness & Chiropractic, to talk about why chiropractic care isn’t just about fixing pain, it’s about preventing it. John shares how his team partners with local companies to help employees reduce strain, prevent injuries, and move better...

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects millions of women—yet it remains one of the most misunderstood hormone conditions. In this episode, Laura Chastain, NP, sits down with Dr. Catherine Needham, PharmD—known as @CycleBalancedDoc—to unpack everything a woman needs to know about PCOS: from hormone imbalances and insulin resistance to inflammation, fertility, and metabolic health. Together, they...

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Pranav “Dr. K” Kukreja, a Franklin, TN-based dentist who’s challenging conventional thinking through biological and alternative dentistry. Dr. K shares how modern science and ancient wisdom intersect in the mouth—where oral health reflects total-body wellness. We explore the cutting edge of holistic dental care: ozone therapy, platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), laser...

In this episode, Laura and Mandy discuss both surgical and nonsurgical techniques with Dr. Chris Sanborn, bariatric surgeon and the Director of the Erlanger Metabolic Center. Beyond the Scale dives deep into the evolving science and solutions for weight management. This discussion unpacks the latest in surgical and non-surgical approaches to obesity care—from bariatric surgery and lifestyle strate...

“Walking the Talk: How We Test, Train, and Optimize for Longevity”: ⸻ In this episode, Josh and Mandy pull back the curtain and share their own personal health journeys. From VO₂ max testing to resistance training routines and longevity tools, they discuss what’s working, what they’re learning, and how they’re applying the same principles they encourage their patients to use. Tune in for a real, b...

In this episode, Mandy Livingston and Laura Chastain sit down with Dr. Susan Raschal, a specialist in allergy, asthma, and immunology, to explore the personal journey and professional insights that shaped her career. She opens up about the obstacles that nearly prevented her from becoming a physician—financial hurdles, lack of guidance, and limited access to resources—and how persistence and resil...

In this episode of the Optimized Health Podcast, we sit down with Andrea Mangrum, founder of The Bloodwork Analyst and a board-certified Natural Wellness Practitioner. Andrea specializes in Functional Blood Chemistry Analysis, helping people uncover what their standard lab results might really be saying—especially when doctors dismiss them as “normal.” We dive into: Why conventional lab ranges don...

What is genetic counseling--and what is it not? In this episode, we sit down with Madison Thomason, Certified Genetic Counselor, and patient advocate, Toria Williams, to demystify the field and explain how it empowers individuals and families through education, risk assessment, and support. Our guest discusses common misconceptions, what typically happens during a genetic counseling session, and t...

In this episode Josh and Mandy sit down with financial advisor and author Garry Thurman to talk about his upcoming book Retire Strong- a bold take on preparing not just for your finances, but you health for the road ahead. They dive into how optimal health is a key investment strategy, why life insurance and retirement plans matter more than ever, and how to align your lifestyle with your long-ter...

In this episode, Mandy Livingston sits down with IFBB Pro and her personal trainer, Matt Davis, for a no-nonsense conversation about fitness, hype, and what actually works. We dive into the myths circulating on social media—like how long you really need to rest between sets, whether creatine is a one-size-fits-all solution, and how tuning into your body is the ultimate game changer. Matt breaks do...

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Lindsey Bright—founder of Flawless Aesthetics, Nurse Practitioner, and skincare expert—and her 11-year-old daughter Eva Bright, a budding entrepreneur with her own skincare line for young girls. Together, they share how skincare is evolving to start earlier and last longer, becoming a lifelong wellness practice for both women and men. From tween routines...

Join us as we talk with Amber Conway, Certified Nutrition Practitioner with Nutrition World. Amber discusses how she was led into her field by her own health journey. She discusses the importance of the gut-brain connection and the role the guy plays in our overall health. She then goes deeper into how our nervous system interprets our world and is the primary driver of our well being. She also gi...

Is testosterone truly the villain in prostate cancer, or have we been misled for decades? In this episode of Optimized Health, Josh Porter sits down with world-renowned urologist and testosterone researcher Dr. Abraham Morgentaler to unravel one of the most persistent myths in medicine. They explore the historical roots of the testosterone-prostate cancer dogma, dissect the flawed interpretations...

Mental health and hormones form a deep connection that can impact every area of our life. Neurological, hormonal, and emotional connections can deeply impact how we think, feel, and function. Join us and our guest, Karisa L. Kaye, Marriage and Family therapist, sex therapist, trauma and ART therapist, as we dive into the science and stories behind mental health and hormone shifts in men and women...

In this special AMA (Ask Me Anything) episode, Josh Porter takes center stage to answer your burning questions about hormone optimization, longevity strategies, and the latest trends shaking up preventative medicine. From testosterone therapy and peptides to metabolic hacks that supercharge your health, Josh and Mandy tackle listener-submitted questions with honesty, humor, and actionable insights...

Join Mandy Livingston and Laura Chastain as we wrap up our series with Nutrition World featuring owner and founder, Ed Jones. Ed discusses his tried and true habits that help him to maintain his weight, prevent insulin resistance, and aid in his health lifestyle in order to create awareness and promote wellness throughout our community.

In this episode of Optimized Health, Mandy Livingston sits down with Cady Kuhlman, co-owner of Nutrition World, to explore the vital role of nutrition and holistic wellness during pregnancy, postpartum and breastfeeding. Cady shares her expertise on essential nutrients for both Mom and baby, safe natural remedies for common pregnancy symptoms and practical breastfeeding tips -including supplements...

Join us in this compelling episode of ‘Optimized Health’ as we sit down with Adam Chauncey, a nutrition coach from Nutrition World. We dive into the hot topic of vaccinations, exploring the evidence behind various vaccines and the schedules that guide them. With Adam’s holistic perspective, we unpack the science and discuss what it means for your health and wellness. Whether you’re a health enthus...

Join Mandy Livingston and Laura Chastain and their guest Dr Curt Dearing, pharmacist with Nutrition World. They discuss issues around poly pharmacy in relation to blood pressure medication, simplifying treatment options and using more natural remedies to approach more optimal health.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Ed Jones, founder of Nutrition World and pioneer in the health and wellness industry for over four decades. In this episode, Ed shares his expert insights and practical tips for achieving longevity in 2025. Discover the foundational pillars of optimal health, hear the story behind the creation of Nutrition World, and learn how Ed’s unwavering passion cont...

Join Mandy Livingston and Laura Chastain as local expert, Emily Brewer, DCNP, and owner of The Derm Center, explore the primary causes of midlife hair thinning, including hormonal imbalances like menopause, nutritional deficiencies, and medical conditions. We will also dive into treatment options ranging from topical solutions and supplements to lifestyle adjustments and advanced therapies, helpin...

In our final episode of 2024, Optimized Health reflects on this year’s breakthroughs in hormone research and reviews some of the most popular books on the topic. One of Optimize U Chattanooga’s medical providers and former military medic, Justin Edwards, shares his inspiring journey into the world of hormones and wellness. Don’t miss this powerful conclusion to the season.