What Happens in Vagus

What if parasites are affecting more than your gut? In this episode of What Happens in Vagus , Dr. Stephanie Canestraro sits down with Kim Rogers of RogersHood Apothecary, better known as the Worm Queen , for a wide ranging conversation about parasites, mold, Lyme, environmental exposures, the nervous system, and the experiences that led Kim to explore these topics in the first place. Kim shares her personal health journey, including years of complicated health challenges, her experience with Lyme and suspected parasites, and how her approach to wellness evolved through her own search for answers. The conversation also explores an idea that comes up again and again in the world of chronic symptoms: What if nervous system regulation isn't always the whole story? Dr. Steph and Kim discuss how physical and environmental stressors may intersect with the nervous system, and why some people may feel like their body is stuck in a constant state of alarm. In this episode, they talk about: • Kim's personal journey through chronic health challenges and what led her to explore parasites and plant medicine • Parasites and the different ways they can affect the body • Why the conversation around parasites is often more complicated than people realize • The connection between parasites, mold, Lyme and other environmental stressors • Why nervous system regulation may feel very different when the body is also dealing with physical stressors • Kim's experience with parasite cleansing and what she says she noticed along the way • Biofilm, binders, herbs and the approach Kim takes with parasite protocols • Amanita and other mushrooms and plant based remedies Kim has explored • Why two people can respond very differently to the same nervous system or wellness strategy • The importance of feeling heard when you've been dealing with unexplained or unresolved symptoms • Kim's approach to supporting the body through what she calls the “bigger picture” A conversation about the bigger picture One of the central themes of this episode is the relationship between what's happening inside the body and what the nervous system is experiencing. Dr. Steph shares her own perspective on what it can feel like when the body is under significant physical stress, while Kim shares the experiences that shaped her approach to parasites, mold and other environmental factors. Rather than looking at the nervous system in isolation, this conversation asks a bigger question: What else might be worth looking at when your body doesn't seem to be responding the way you expect? Meet Kim Rogers, the “Worm Queen” Kim Rogers is the founder of RogersHood Apothecary and is known online as the “Worm Queen.” Her work and personal health journey have led her to explore herbalism, mushrooms, parasite protocols and other approaches to supporting the body. If you are interested in trying her ParaFy Kit product, use code VAGUSCLINIC for 10% savings. Let us know your thoughts on this episode here For any further information, feel free to email us at info@vagusclinic.com. Our team is happy to help. We offer 20-minute complimentary health calls, and you can sign up for one here .

In this solo episode of What Happens in Vagus , Dr. Stephanie Canestraro gets personal about the health journey she has experienced over the last several years and what she has learned about long COVID, mast cell activation, dysautonomia, stealth infections and the complex cascade of symptoms that can happen when the immune system becomes dysregulated. Dr. Steph shares why someone can be healthy and functioning normally for years before an infection or another stressor suddenly brings underlying issues to the surface, and why symptoms such as unexplained anxiety, panic, tachycardia, brain fog, swelling, digestive issues, sleep disruption, fatigue and exercise intolerance may have deeper physiological drivers. She explains the connection between the spike protein, ACE2 receptors, mast cells, histamine, blood flow, endothelial dysfunction, microclotting, mitochondria, electrolyte imbalances and the nervous system, while emphasizing that calming the nervous system alone may not address the underlying problem. Dr. Steph also walks through some of the foundational strategies and tools that supported her own recovery, including electrolytes and minerals, compression, lymphatic support, nutrition, mitochondrial support, binders, nervous system regulation and addressing the infections and other factors contributing to the overall picture. Most importantly, she shares a message she wishes more people struggling with these symptoms would hear: this is not your fault, and feeling unwell does not mean you are weak. Your symptoms are messages from your body, and understanding the bigger picture can be an important part of finding a path forward. Let us know your thoughts on this episode here For any further information, feel free to email us at info@vagusclinic.com. Our team is happy to help. We offer 20-minute complimentary health calls, and you can sign up for one here .

In this powerful and deeply personal conversation, Dr. Steph sits down with Christina P. Kantzavelos Gameiro, LCSW, MSW, MLIS , an Integrative Lyme, Chronic Illness/Pain, Neurodivergent, C PTSD Psychotherapist and Coach. Christina brings a unique perspective to chronic illness because she has lived it herself. After years of unexplained symptoms, countless medical appointments and eventually becoming so sick that she could no longer work, Christina was diagnosed with Lyme disease. Her own healing journey led her to explore the nervous system, trauma informed care and the mind body connection, ultimately inspiring her to help others navigating chronic illness. In this episode, Dr. Steph and Christina dive into the often overlooked layers of chronic illness and Lyme, including: • Why the nervous system can become stuck in fight, flight, freeze or fawn • The connection between chronic illness, trauma and the window of tolerance • Why some people become incredibly sensitive to supplements, foods and their environment • Why building safety and nervous system capacity can be an important part of the healing process • The complicated relationship between Lyme, chronic illness, environmental stressors and the body • Why there is no single protocol or one size fits all approach • The emotional experience of losing your health and wondering if you will ever feel like yourself again • Learning to trust your body instead of living in fear of every new symptom Most importantly, this episode is a reminder that your body is not your enemy. It is constantly trying to protect you, adapt and keep you safe. As Christina says, we don’t get sick in isolation, and we don’t heal in isolation. This is a conversation about chronic illness, nervous system regulation, trauma, resilience, hope and learning to work with your body rather than constantly fighting against it. Let us know your thoughts on this episode here For any further information, feel free to email us at info@vagusclinic.com. Our team is happy to help. We offer 20-minute complimentary health calls, and you can sign up for one here .

If you've been doing everything right and still not getting better, this episode was made for you. Dr. Stephanie Canestraro sits down with her colleague and friend, Dr. Christine Schaffner, a naturopathic doctor, bioregulatory medicine expert, and founder of the Sensitive Stack. She has spent her career on the cutting edge of what it actually takes to heal the patients who fall through every crack in conventional and even functional medicine. At the center of this conversation is a concept that changes everything: sensitivity is a symptom, not a diagnosis. The rising epidemic of mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS), histamine intolerance, long COVID, and chronic multisystem illness isn't happening in a vacuum. It's a signal from the terrain, the extracellular matrix, the autonomic nervous system, the fascia, that the body's innate intelligence has been blocked. Dr. Christine explains the foundational principles of bioregulatory medicine, which emerged from Switzerland, Austria, and Germany, and why its approach to regulation, terrain theory, and interference fields offers a roadmap that functional medicine alone often misses. One of the most overlooked and most impactful areas they cover is the dental connection. Root canals, amalgam fillings, cavitations, and hidden jaw infections are among the most common interference fields Dr. Christine sees in chronically ill patients. A dead tooth is a chronic infection, and that infection has direct access to the vagus nerve, the lymphatic system, and the organ meridians mapped on the dental chart. Dr. Stephanie shares her own experience supporting a close family member who went from severe anxiety and heart palpitations to calm and functional — simply by removing one infected root canal. Both doctors discuss how to approach dental interventions safely, why preparation and the right biological dentist matter, and how to mitigate the healing response that can follow. The conversation goes deep on hormones, the menstrual cycle, and chronic illness, territory that rarely gets the clinical attention it deserves. Dr. Christine explains what she calls the "luteal phase flare," the week before a woman's period when progesterone drops, prostaglandins rise, and the immune system wakes up to everything it suppressed during the potential implantation window. For women with Lyme disease, mold illness, parasites, or MCAS, this is often the hardest week of the month and it doesn't have to be. They also cover estrogen dominance, beta-glucuronidase, zearalenone (the mold mycotoxin that mimics estrogen), and the liver's central role in hormone metabolism and detoxification. Dr. Christine also shares her own deeply personal journey, navigating a lawsuit, rebuilding her practice, and facing a diagnosis of a 3.2 centimeter pituitary macroadenoma that required brain surgery. In the two weeks between diagnosis and the operating table, she leaned entirely into energy medicine, coherence healings, meditation, and intention work. Her surgeon later told her he'd be studying her tumor for a long time because for its size, it came out unusually easily. Her story is a testament to what's possible when you apply everything you teach. ✦ In this episode: • Bioregulatory medicine explained and why it goes beyond functional medicine • Terrain theory vs. germ theory, and what Louis Pasteur said on his deathbed • The extracellular matrix, lymphatic stagnation, and where disease actually begins • Interference fields: scars, hidden infections, and dental toxicity blocking your healing • Root canals, cavitations, and amalgams as chronic infections connected to your organs • MCAS, histamine intolerance, and why sensitivity is a symptom, not a root cause • The luteal phase flare: why women with chronic illness feel worse before their period • Estrogen dominance, zearalenone mold toxin, and beta-glucuronidase • Long COVID, post-vaccine immune dysregulation, and TH1/TH2 immune imbalance • 5G, EMFs, voltage-gated calcium channels, and cell membrane destabilization • Motherwort, hawthorn, and lemon balm as natural calcium channel stabilizers • Dr. Christine's pituitary tumor diagnosis, brain surgery, and healing journey • The Sensitive Stack: Dr. Christine's new program for sensitive, hard-to-treat patients ✦ Find Dr. Christine Schaffner: Website: drchristineschaffner.com The Sensitive Stack: available at her website and on Instagram Instagram: @drchristineschaffner ✦ About Dr. Stephanie Canestraro: Dr. Stephanie is a chiropractor, functional medicine practitioner, and chronic illness survivor. What Happens in Vagus explores root-cause healing through the nervous system, bioregulatory medicine, and the extraordinary intelligence of the human body. Let us know your thoughts on this episode here For any further information, feel free to email us at info@vagusclinic.com. Our team is happy to help. We offer 20-minute complimentary health calls, and you can sign up for one here .

What if your body already has everything it needs to heal and unresolved trauma is the only thing standing in the way? In this episode of What Happens in Vagus, Dr. Stephanie Canestraro sits down with Peter McLaughlin, a certified hypnotherapist who put his chronic lymphocytic leukemia into remission in 2003, without chemotherapy. Peter's journey began in the wreckage of a life running on pure adrenaline: a demanding Wall Street career, a two-hour daily commute, three young children, and an office one block from Ground Zero on September 11th. When his body finally gave out, his leukemia diagnosis became the catalyst that set him on a path toward subconscious healing, hypnotherapy, and a complete understanding of the mind-body connection. Together, Peter and Dr. Stephanie explore one of the most overlooked truths in chronic illness: that emotional trauma, including small, seemingly insignificant moments from childhood, gets stored in the subconscious mind and continues to drive the body's stress response for decades. Because the subconscious has no concept of time, a humiliating moment in third grade or a cry left unanswered in a crib can still be activating a fight-or-flight response in your body today. This chronic activation of the autonomic nervous system suppresses immunity, disrupts hormones, stalls digestion, and creates the environment in which disease takes root. Dr. Stephanie also shares her own healing journey from a Lyme disease and Bartonella infection that attacked her nervous system and went undiagnosed for over a decade, to the functional medicine interventions, precious metal IVs, and reconnection with her body's inner wisdom that finally brought her back. Together they connect the dots between nervous system dysregulation, frequency medicine, and the extraordinary capacity of the human body to heal when given the right tools. ✦ In this episode: • How chronic stress and emotional trauma directly contribute to serious illness • Why childhood events your conscious mind has "forgotten" are still running your nervous system • What hypnotherapy actually does and how it clears emotional toxins from the subconscious • Why you cannot heal in fight-or-flight mode and how to shift into rest-and-digest • How cortisol signals your body to hold onto fat • 432 Hz healing music, binaural beats, and frequencies that regulate the nervous system • Applied kinesiology, muscle testing, and pendulum work as tools for inner wisdom • Peter's work with professional athletes and how childhood trauma shows up on the field • Precious metals (gold, silver, platinum) and their role in healing chronic infection • The placebo effect as proof of the mind's power to heal the body ✦ Find Peter McLaughlin: Website & healing tracks: blueskyhypnosis.com YouTube: @blueskyhypnosis ✦ About Dr. Stephanie Canestraro: Dr. Stephanie is a chiropractor, functional medicine practitioner, and chronic illness survivor. Her practice and this podcast are rooted in one belief: that the body is designed to heal, and that the vagus nerve is the master key to making that happen. Let us know your thoughts on this episode here For any further information, feel free to email us at info@vagusclinic.com. Our team is happy to help. We offer 20-minute complimentary health calls, and you can sign up for one here .

In this episode, Dr. Stephanie Canestraro sits down with building biology expert Ryan Blazer to unpack the hidden dangers of mold exposure and how it can impact your health, especially for those already dealing with chronic conditions like Lyme disease or long COVID. The conversation is sparked by Dr. Steph’s recent experience in the Dominican Republic, where unexpected mold exposure in a rental villa triggered intense neurological and physical symptoms, despite the space appearing “safe” at first glance. Ryan explains what actually happens when mold is disturbed, comparing it to a hornet’s nest being shaken. Once disrupted, mold releases spores, mycotoxins, and microbial gases into the air, which can quickly spread throughout a space if proper containment isn’t used. The episode breaks down the difference between mold spores and mycotoxins, and why mycotoxins are especially harmful. Dr. Steph shares the symptoms she experienced, from anxiety and neurological inflammation to muscle twitching and a heightened stress response, along with the tools she used to recover, including binders and detox support. They also discuss practical steps for handling exposure, including how to deal with contaminated clothing and furniture, and why some items may need to be discarded entirely. The conversation also touches on how certain environments, like tropical climates or poorly maintained air conditioning units, can be major sources of mold exposure, even in high-end spaces. They explore the connection between mold and EMFs, and how environmental stressors may amplify symptoms in sensitive individuals. This episode is a must-listen for anyone dealing with unexplained symptoms, building a healthier home, or wanting to better understand how your environment can impact your health. Check out Test My Home here Let us know your thoughts on this episode here For any further information, feel free to email us at info@vagusclinic.com. Our team is happy to help. We offer 20-minute complimentary health calls, and you can sign up for one here .

In this episode of What Happens in Vagus , Dr. Stephanie Canestraro sits down with Leigh Ann Lindsey, founder of The Accrescent and creator of Healing Alchemy, to explore the powerful connection between the unconscious mind, emotional patterns, and physical illness. Leigh Ann shares her personal journey of being diagnosed with breast cancer at 25 and how that experience led her to discover and ultimately dedicate her work to EVOX therapy, a modality focused on the emotional and energetic contributors to illness. Leigh Ann breaks down what EVOX therapy actually is, explaining how voice mapping identifies imbalanced emotions through vocal tones and how biofeedback frequencies help regulate the nervous system and support emotional release. She discusses why nervous system regulation is critical when working through trauma and chronic illness, and why talk therapy alone can sometimes feel slow or incomplete when the body remains in a stress response. The conversation dives deep into unconscious narratives, safety, and how early life experiences can shape belief systems that quietly run our behaviours, health patterns, and even our ability to heal. Leigh Ann explains how unmetabolized emotions, looping thought patterns, and displaced pain can manifest as illness, and why healing requires more than positive thinking or affirmations. Together, they explore how illness can sometimes serve as a messenger or coping mechanism, offering insight into what the body and psyche may be asking for beneath the surface. Throughout the episode, Leigh Ann emphasizes a “no stone unturned” approach to healing, blending EVOX therapy with depth psychology to help clients move through emotional blockages, rewire old neural pathways, and create a sense of safety within the body. She also shares how her Healing Alchemy membership and resources make this work more accessible for people navigating cancer, chronic illness, and long-standing emotional patterns. This episode offers a compassionate, grounded, and deeply insightful look at healing that honors the mind, body, and spirit as an integrated whole. Find Leigh Ann Lindsey on instagram here Let us know your thoughts on this episode here For any further information, feel free to email us at info@vagusclinic.com. Our team is happy to help. We offer 20-minute complimentary health calls, and you can sign up for one here .

In this episode of the What Happens in Vagus podcast, Dr. Stephanie Canestraro sits down with nurse Emma Robertson to explore her journey from high functioning perfectionism to a full nervous system crash and eventual recovery. With a background in human anatomy and frontline healthcare, Emma shares both the clinical and deeply personal realities of living with dysautonomia and chronic nervous system dysregulation. Emma’s symptoms began after graduating university and starting an intense nursing job that left her overworked, under fueled, and ignoring early warning signs like gut issues, rashes, and anxiety. Over time, a combination of stress, restrictive eating, nutrient depletion, and environmental and immune stressors pushed her system past its limit, leading to a sudden and frightening escalation of symptoms. She describes experiencing hyperadrenergic POTS, heart rhythm disturbances, constant panic, severe digestive dysfunction, blood sugar crashes, insomnia, dizziness, and exercise and heat intolerance. Many of her symptoms were misattributed to anxiety, leaving her feeling hijacked by her own body. Emma and Dr. Canestraro discuss the tools that supported her healing, including adequate nutrition, frequent meals, electrolytes, binders, gentle movement, lymphatic support, nervous system regulation, and mindset shifts rooted in safety and trust. Emma also shares what did not help, including extreme diets, fasting, and electrical vagal nerve stimulation, which worsened her symptoms. This episode offers insight, validation, and hope for anyone navigating dysautonomia, chronic illness, or nervous system overload, and emphasizes that healing often begins by slowing down, nourishing the body, and learning to listen to its signals. Let us know your thoughts on this episode here For any further information, feel free to email us at info@vagusclinic.com. Our team is happy to help. We offer 20-minute complimentary health calls, and you can sign up for one here .

This episode dives into the world of women’s hormonal health with Dr. Prudence Hall, who shares how her career shifted from gynecological surgery to integrative medicine after realizing how poorly menopause was being addressed in conventional care. She breaks down why individualized treatment matters, especially when it comes to bioidentical hormones that mirror the body’s natural chemistry. The conversation explores the underrated role of testosterone in women’s health, from supporting muscle and bone to protecting mental clarity, and how environmental stressors, toxins, and chronic stress can disrupt hormonal balance. Dr. Hall also highlights the importance of vitamin D, thyroid function, and comprehensive testing - hormones, antibodies, genetics - to get a full picture of what’s really going on in the body. Throughout the episode, she emphasizes the power of collaboration between patients and practitioners and the need for a more thoughtful, personalized approach to navigating menopause and beyond. Learn more about Dr. Hall - Dr. Prudence Hall is an integrative medicine pioneer and founder of The Hall Center in Santa Monica, specializing in regenerative and hormone-based medicine. A former gynecologic surgeon, she’s spent over three decades helping patients restore vitality, balance, and longevity through root-cause healing. Dr. Hall’s approach blends modern science with holistic wellness, focusing on the powerful mind–body connection and the role of the nervous system in overall health. Find Dr. Hall on Instagram here Check out The Hall Center here. Let us know your thoughts on this episode here For any further information, feel free to email us at info@vagusclinic.com. Our team is happy to help. We offer 20-minute complimentary health calls, and you can sign up for one here .

In this episode of What Happens in Vagus, Dr. Stephanie Canestraro is joined by Dr. Leah Barbaro for a deep dive into the hidden health challenges affecting athletes today. Together, they unpack why so many professionals struggle with lymphatic stagnation, gut dysfunction, chronic inflammation, and the growing burden of environmental toxins. They explore the rise in mast cell activation, the overlooked role of parasites, and why standard nutrition and supplement protocols fall short for high-performing bodies. Throughout the conversation, they highlight the importance of holistic care, strategic detoxification, mitochondrial support, and building a resilient system from the ground up. Whether you’re an athlete or someone navigating similar symptoms, this episode empowers you to understand your body, make informed choices, and take control of your long-term health. Let us know your thoughts on this episode here For any further information, feel free to email us at info@vagusclinic.com. Our team is happy to help. We offer 20-minute complimentary health calls, and you can sign up for one here .

In this solo episode, Dr. Steph dives deep into the complex world of mast cell activation, histamine intolerance, and anxiety that isn’t really “just anxiety.” She explains how toxins, infections, mold, and even environmental factors like 5G and chemicals can hijack your body’s immune and nervous systems, creating a cascade of symptoms that often get mislabeled as anxiety or panic. Dr. Steph breaks down what mast cells actually do, how chronic inflammation starts, and why so many people feel “electric,” overstimulated, or stuck in fight-or-flight mode. Through a recent real-life case study, she reveals how everyday exposures (like an epoxy garage renovation) can re-trigger old health patterns, and she outlines how to calm the system using binders, nutrition, lymphatic support, and vagus nerve regulation. This episode is equal parts science and story, helping listeners connect the dots between their symptoms and their biology, and reminding them that true healing starts when we ask: Is it anxiety… or is it toxicity? Let us know your thoughts on this episode here For any further information, feel free to email us at info@vagusclinic.com. Our team is happy to help. We offer 20-minute complimentary health calls, and you can sign up for one here .

In this episode of What Happens in Vagus , Dr. Stephanie Canestraro sits down with Dr. Kendal Stewart, a board-certified neurotologist who made the remarkable transition from neurosurgery to functional medicine. Together, they unpack how understanding root causes, not just symptoms, can transform patient outcomes. Dr. Stewart dives deep into the lasting neurological effects of COVID, explaining how inflammation and immune activation can alter the brain and body. The two explore the critical connection between genetics, immune response, and hormonal balance, especially when it comes to mast cell activation in women. Listeners will also learn why turning off inflammation is key to recovery, how insulin resistance quietly impacts overall health, and the promising role of peptides and exosomes in immune and neurological repair. Dr. Stewart shares how personalized medicine, nutrigenomics, and genetic testing allow practitioners to tailor treatments that target inflammation, neurotransmitter imbalances, and gut dysfunction at their source. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of genetics, functional medicine, and cutting-edge approaches to healing from the inside out. More on Dr. Stewart: As a board-certified neurotologist with advanced training in both surgery and cellular science, Dr. Kendal Stewart has dedicated his life’s work to uncovering root causes and tailoring individualized solutions through genetic testing, functional medicine, and integrative care. His approach emphasizes prevention as much as treatment, using lifestyle, nutrition, and nervous system support as daily fuel for better brain function. A nationally recognized expert in neuroimmune disorders— including genetic abnormalities, chronic pain, ADD/ADHD and autism spectrum conditions, he provides practical tools to regulate stress, stabilize energy, boost mental clarity, and gain overall wellness. Dr. Stewart brings not only clinical authority but also an empowering, real-world lens—helping families, patients, and professionals better understand and improve the nervous system and immune function. Tune into Coffee with Dr. Stewart here Follow him on Instagram here Keywords: functional medicine, neurotology, inflammation, genetics, immune system, COVID-19, mast cell activation, insulin resistance, peptides, neurotransmitters, personalized medicine, plasmapheresis, exosomes, gut health, nutrition Let us know your thoughts on this episode here For any further information, feel free to email us at info@vagusclinic.com. Our team is happy to help. We offer 20-minute complimentary health calls, and you can sign up for one here .

In this episode of What Happens in Vagus , host Dr. Stephanie Canestraro sits down with Kayse Gehret, founder of Microdosing for Healing, to explore the fascinating world of microdosing psilocybin and its growing role in mental health, wellness, and alternative medicine. Together, they unpack the science behind psilocybin’s impact on the nervous system, including how it interacts with serotonin receptors in both the brain and gut to support emotional regulation and cognitive clarity. Kayse shares her personal healing journey and how microdosing helped her overcome seizures, reduce anxiety, and improve overall well-being without the “altered state” many people associate with psychedelics. Listeners will learn how microdosing can offer powerful support for conditions like depression, anxiety, and chronic illness, often leading to enhanced mood, deeper self-awareness, and improved mental resilience. The conversation also touches on the importance of quality sourcing, the evolving legal landscape, and how proper education is key to safe and effective practice. With more health professionals exploring the therapeutic potential of psilocybin, this episode offers an eye-opening look at how small doses can lead to profound healing and a deeper connection to self. More about Kayse Gehret: Kayse Gehret is the founder of Microdosing for Healing and creator of the first-of-its-kind Professional Microdosing Facilitator Program. With nearly 30 years in the healing arts and a global community in 30+ countries, Kayse helps individuals and practitioners harness the potential of microdosing to heal trauma, regulate the nervous system, and reconnect with their innate wisdom. Visit Microdosing for Healing Let us know your thoughts on this episode here For any further information, feel free to email us at info@vagusclinic.com. Our team is happy to help. We offer 20-minute complimentary health calls, and you can sign up for one here .

In this powerful episode of What Happens in Vagus , Dr. Stephanie Canestraro sits down with marketing strategist and Lyme warrior Allie Chandler to share their parallel journeys through chronic illness, mold exposure, POTS, and long COVID. Together, they uncover the hidden connections between stealth infections, environmental triggers, and dysautonomia symptoms many patients struggle to explain. Allie shares her decade-long experience with Lyme disease, mold toxicity, and functional medicine recovery—including the ups and downs of working high-stress jobs while healing—and reveals the holistic, functional, and sometimes unconventional protocols that moved the needle in her recovery, from limbic system retraining and EMDR to parasite cleansing and homeopathics. Dr. Steph discusses the importance of being non-dogmatic in healing, how the vagus nerve and lymphatic flow play a central role in chronic symptoms, and why open communication between patients and practitioners leads to breakthroughs. If you’ve ever felt dismissed by the conventional system, are navigating post-COVID or mold-related health challenges, or want to explore functional medicine tools for healing your heart, nervous system, and immune resilience, this episode offers both practical tips and hope. More on Allie: Allie Chandler, founder of Upsell Health ( www.upsellhealth.com ), is a leading marketing strategist specializing in functional medicine and wellness brands. After her own healing journey from chronic Lyme disease, mold toxicity, and parasites transformed her from bedbound to thriving, she discovered her passion for helping practitioners share their healing gifts with the world. With over 11 years of experience, Allie has held executive positions at industry giants including CellCore Biosciences, Microbiome Labs, and Novozymes OneHealth. She's scaled supplement companies to $60-100M in revenue, launched 21+ products, and generated $1.3M/month in Amazon sales. Holding a Master's in Writing from California College of the Arts and certification as a Lyme Specialist from Trinity College of Natural Health, Allie bridges the gap between scientific expertise and compelling storytelling. Her Practitioner Archetype Framework ( upsellhealth.com/archetype ) and Wellness Marketing Playbook help practitioners market authentically while building thriving, sustainable practices. Let us know your thoughts on this episode here For any further information, feel free to email us at info@vagusclinic.com. Our team is happy to help. We offer 20-minute complimentary health calls, and you can sign up for one here .

In this enlightening episode of What Happens in Vagus with Dr. Steph, we sit down with Kelly Bento, Founder of Soleil Well and a leading voice in the innovation of circadian wellness and red light therapy. Kelly shares her deeply personal journey from navigating a family medical crisis to creating safe, effective red light therapy tools designed to support mitochondrial health, recovery, and overall vitality. Together, Dr. Steph and Kelly explore why light is more than just what we see, it’s the software that runs the hardware of our bodies. They discuss how modern environments have stripped us of vital near-infrared exposure, how to choose a safe and effective red light device, and the powerful ways this therapy can be used for everything from chronic illness to athletic performance and nervous system regulation. Listeners will gain practical insights into daily light hygiene, tips for integrating natural and supplemental light exposure, and how to protect themselves from harmful artificial light and EMFs. Whether you’re an athlete, a health seeker, or simply curious about the future of wellness, this episode is packed with science, stories, and solutions that illuminate the path back to nature’s rhythms. Please check out Soleil Well here and use code VAGUSCLINIC10 for 10% off. Let us know your thoughts on this episode here For any further information, feel free to email us at info@vagusclinic.com. Our team is happy to help. We offer 20-minute complimentary health calls, and you can sign up for one here .

In this episode of What Happens in Vagus , host Dr. Stephanie Canestraro sits down with Cheyanne Welton, widely known as The Biohacking Nurse , to explore the cutting-edge world of peptides, microdosing GLP-1s, and strategies for stabilizing mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS). Cheyanne shares her personal health journey — from battling Lyme disease, mold toxicity, and autoimmune conditions to discovering how specific peptides transformed her recovery and resilience. Together, Dr. Stephanie and Cheyanne unpack the science and practical applications of BPC-157, CJC/Ipamorelin, Tirzepatide, TB-500, GHK-Cu, and more. They discuss how microdosing GLP-1 agonists can reduce inflammation, support hormone balance, improve metabolic health, and even calm microglial activation in the brain. Cheyanne also reveals incredible real-world stories, including how peptides helped her mother avoid hospitalizations, and why starting with the right peptide — and the right dose — is key to success. The conversation goes beyond theory, diving into post-COVID health challenges, POTS, histamine intolerance, spike protein protocols, and strategies for working with functional medicine practitioners to get results. Whether you’re an athlete, someone navigating chronic illness, or simply curious about biohacking for longevity, this episode offers actionable insights and inspiring success stories from the frontlines of functional medicine and regenerative health. Cheyanne's Bio: Cheyanne is a registered nurse and functional wellness expert who became The Biohacking Nurse after facing years of complex, unresolved health challenges that left even doctors stumped. Determined to heal, she dove deep into functional medicine, biohacking, and root-cause approaches—becoming her own best case study. Today, she helps others navigate their own healing journeys using the tools, strategies, and cutting-edge therapies that changed her life—from peptides and detox to lifestyle upgrades and beyond. She calls Idaho home and loves the mountains and cold plunging in the lakes. When she is not studying health, you can find her gardening barefoot and enjoying all things homemaking. Find The Biohacking Nurse on Instagram here Let us know your thoughts on this episode here For any further information, feel free to email us at info@vagusclinic.com. Our team is happy to help. We offer 20-minute complimentary health calls, and you can sign up for one here .

In this episode of What Happens in Vagus , Dr. Stephanie Canestraro sits down with Farah Zipursky for a powerful and deeply personal conversation about chronic illness, healing, and the importance of taking a holistic approach to wellness. Farah shares how her health journey began while living in Australia, where a growing interest in nutrition and whole foods led her down the path of functional medicine. Struggling with Bell’s Palsy and later receiving a Lyme disease diagnosis, Farah was forced to look deeper into the root causes of her chronic symptoms. Her exploration into gut health, nervous system regulation, and detoxification became the foundation of her healing process. Together, Dr. Steph and Farah dive into the importance of lymphatic health, regular bowel movements, and the role of environmental toxins in chronic disease. They touch on the benefits and limitations of treatments like stem cell therapy and hyperthermia, and how integrating conventional and functional medicine can lead to more effective outcomes. This episode also highlights the often invisible struggles of chronic illness and the vital role patient empowerment plays in recovery. Farah emphasizes that healing is a slow, intentional process that requires patience, persistence, and support, and that understanding your body is one of the most powerful tools on the journey to wellness. Let us know your thoughts on this episode here For any further information, feel free to email us at info@vagusclinic.com. Our team is happy to help. We offer 20-minute complimentary health calls, and you can sign up for one here .

In this powerful and eye-opening episode of What Happens in Vagus , Dr. Steph sits down with leading EMF expert Mike Camilleri, CEO & President of Safe Guard Solutions, to unpack the often-overlooked dangers of electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure, especially in the era of 5G technology. Together, they shed light on how modern technology, while convenient, may be quietly impacting our health in significant ways. From the unique risks posed by 5G frequencies to the heightened sensitivity of children and other vulnerable individuals, this conversation offers essential insights. Dr. Steph and Mike also dive into practical, actionable ways to reduce EMF exposure in the home, like hardwiring devices and using EMF shielding solutions, as well as the importance of clean indoor air and proactive mold management. They emphasize how mold exposure can intensify EMF-related health issues, and highlight the benefits of grounding practices, environmental testing, and working with professionals to create safer living environments. Whether you're already EMF-aware or just starting your journey, this episode is a crucial reminder of the importance of protecting your body in today’s tech-saturated world. More on Mike Camilleri: Mike Camilleri is the CEO and President of Safe Guard Solutions, a company recognized for excellence with the 2024 New Business of the Year award and the 2025 Canadian Choice Award in Health. As a Building Biologist, House Doctor, and Home Inspector, Mike specializes in EMFs, mold, indoor air quality, and water filtration systems. With a passion for healthier living environments, he leads Safe Guard Solutions in setting new standards for home wellness and environmental safety. Check out Safe Guard Solutions here . Use code VAGUS10 to save. Follow Dr. Steph on Instagram here. Follow Vagus Clinic on Instagram here . Let us know your thoughts on this episode here Let us know your thoughts on this episode here For any further information, feel free to email us at info@vagusclinic.com. Our team is happy to help. We offer 20-minute complimentary health calls, and you can sign up for one here .

In this insightful solo episode of What Happens in Vagus , Dr. Steph dives into the emerging concept of Chronic Toxic Syndrome , a condition gaining recognition for its wide-ranging and often unexplained symptoms. Dr. Steph unpacks the complex contributors to this syndrome, including chronic low-grade infections , mold exposure , and EMF sensitivity , all of which can silently undermine health. She highlights the powerful role that frequencies and lymphatic health play in overall wellness and detoxification. With a growing number of people feeling unwell without clear diagnoses, Dr. Steph outlines practical, science-backed strategies to support healing, ranging from lymphatic drainage to detox methods and the use of peptides for immune modulation . If you’ve been struggling with vague symptoms, chronic fatigue, or a general sense that something is “off,” this episode is a must-listen. Dr. Steph encourages listeners to tune in, stay curious, and reach out for help when needed—because healing is possible, and you're not alone in your journey. Follow Dr. Steph on Instagram here. Follow Vagus Clinic on Instagram here . Let us know your thoughts on this episode here For any further information, feel free to email us at info@vagusclinic.com. Our team is happy to help. We offer 20-minute complimentary health calls, and you can sign up for one here .

In this episode of What Happens in Vagus , Dr. Steph sits down with Jason Applewhite, co-founder of Bimini Hydrotherapy, to explore the cutting-edge world of oxygen nanobubbles and their powerful role in health and wellness. Jason breaks down how Bimini’s technology allows the body to absorb oxygen transdermally—through the skin—while soaking in water, offering a non-invasive approach to boosting oxygen levels in the body. They discuss how professional athletes are seeing enhanced performance and faster recovery with regular use, and how this therapy can benefit sleep, detoxification, and even support chronic conditions. With a strong emphasis on accessibility, Bimini is bringing this once-elite therapy into the home and is already developing portable options for greater ease and convenience. Dr. Steph and Jason also address important safety measures to maintain water quality and highlight oxygen’s crucial role in brain function and overall vitality. Whether you're an elite athlete or simply looking to enhance your daily well-being, this conversation offers a fascinating look at the future of hydrotherapy. About Jason: Jason Applewhite is the Co-Founder of Bimini Hydrotherapy Inc., a company dedicated to pioneering advanced wellness solutions through cutting-edge hydrotherapy technologies. With a strong foundation in Biology from Texas A&M University, Jason’s expertise in product development and additive manufacturing, skills he honed over 15 years of experience in the tech and wellness sectors. Prior to co-founding Bimini, Jason leveraged his deep understanding of 3D Printing/additive manufacturing to invent and patent nanobubble generators, a groundbreaking technology aimed at improving water treatment processes. His nanobubble systems are now used in a variety of industries to enhance water quality, boost efficiency, and promote sustainability. Jason’s passion for health and innovation led him to apply his nanobubble technology to human wellness, ultimately co-founding Bimini Hydrotherapy. Through the company's proprietary NanoJet Oxygen Perfusion technology, Jason is helping to revolutionize the way we oxygenate the body, driving faster recovery, increased energy, and enhanced vitality. His unique blend of scientific expertise and entrepreneurial vision is shaping the future of wellness and hydrotherapy. Check out Bimini's website here Check out their instagram here Follow Dr. Steph on Instagram here. Follow Vagus Clinic on Instagram here . Let us know your thoughts on this episode here For any further information, feel free to email us at info@vagusclinic.com. Our team is happy to help. We offer 20-minute complimentary health calls, and you can sign up for one here .