The Health Hunt: Real Healing Journeys, Everyday Wellness & Expert Tips

If you're preparing for ACDF surgery, what do you actually need to know before surgery and what should you expect during recovery? After sharing his personal ACDF journey in Episodes 37 and 38 of The Health Hunt, Dan is answering the practical questions that kept coming up as he researched anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF), talked with his medical team, and connected with other patients going through cervical spine surgery. Think of this episode as an ACDF surgery and recovery FAQ based on Dan's personal experience. We cover preparing your body before surgery, protein and hydration, pain medication and constipation, walking after ACDF, nicotine and bone fusion, GLP-1 medications, omega-3 supplements and NSAIDs, plus the practical realities of preparing your home for recovery. Dan also shares what he found helpful after surgery—including his five-motor recliner, bed wedge options, ice packs, long straws, slip-on shoes and other recovery items—and talks about whether you can recover from ACDF alone. Then we get into some of the questions people may not think about until surgery is approaching: What should you know about your incision? Will you need a neck brace? What's it really like living and sleeping in one? How much time should you take off work? When does physical therapy begin? And when can you drive again? In this episode, we answer: How much protein should I eat before ACDF surgery, and why? Does hydration matter before and after ACDF? What should I know about Percocet, oxycodone and acetaminophen after surgery? How important is walking after ACDF? Why is nicotine such a big concern with spinal fusion? What should I ask about GLP-1 medications before surgery? What about omega-3 supplements? When and why might NSAIDs need to be stopped? Do I need a recliner or bed wedge after ACDF? How should I prepare my home for ACDF recovery? What products are worth having before surgery? Can I recover from ACDF alone? What should I know about ACDF incision and wound care? Will I need a neck brace? What is living and sleeping in a neck brace really like? How much time should I plan to take off work? What should I expect from physical therapy after ACDF? When can I drive after ACDF surgery? Every surgeon, hospital and patient is different. Dan is sharing his personal experience and the questions he found helpful, not giving medical advice. Always follow the instructions of your own surgeon and medical team. Want Dan's full ACDF story? Listen to Episodes 37 and 38 of The Health Hunt to hear how his symptoms began, what his MRIs revealed, why three neurosurgeons gave him different opinions, why he ultimately chose ACDF surgery, and what surgery day and his first weeks of recovery were really like. If you're preparing for ACDF, have already been through it, or have a question Dan didn't answer, we'd love to hear from you. Reach out through The Health Hunt website or social media, or email us at info@thehealthhunt.com . Text us your thoughts, questions, or takeaways. We read every message. All views, opinions, and commentary expressed on The Health Hunt Podcast are solely those of the hosts. They are shared in a personal capacity and do not represent the views, policies, or positions of any current or former employer, including any organizations with which the hosts may be professionally affiliated. Connect with the Health Hunt Website Instagram LinkedIn TikTok YouTube Email: info@thehealthhunt.com The Health Hunt Fullscript Store - Practitioner-grade supplements and wellness products with community discounts up to 25% off The Health Hunt's Prenuvo Discount - Save $300 on a full-body MRI scan Igniton (15% Off Cellular Health & Longevity Products for Health Hunt Listeners)

Dan made the decision to have ACDF neck surgery. Now comes the part you don’t see on an MRI: What is ACDF surgery and recovery actually like? In Part 2 of Dan’s cervical spine surgery journey, we pick up with the whirlwind of pre-op testing and follow him through surgery day, anesthesia, waking up in a cervical neck brace, and the unexpected news that he could go home that very same day. Then we get into the realities of ACDF recovery. Dan shares what the first days and weeks after anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) looked like for him: the sore and scratchy throat, difficulty eating, sleeping in a neck brace, why a five-motor recliner became his favorite recovery purchase, getting back to walking almost immediately, and preparing to begin physical therapy. But some of the most interesting changes were neurological. Before surgery, Dan had experienced unusual cold sensations in his legs and feet and a gait issue that caused his right foot to kick outward. Less than a month after surgery, he shares what has and hasn’t changed, including one symptom that unexpectedly disappeared. We also talk about something that doesn't always make the ACDF recovery checklist: the mental and emotional side of having major surgery. Dan lives alone, and the experience gave him a new appreciation for family, friends, the people who show up when you need them, and the importance of having support during recovery. Plus, Dan takes us up close to his ACDF incision and explains what he learned about how the different layers are closed and how his scar is healing. Finally, we look back at the biggest lessons from his entire cervical spine surgery journey: listen when your body changes, get multiple medical opinions, ask questions—even a lot of them—and advocate for yourself when something doesn't feel right. In this episode: The pre-op testing and medical clearance before ACDF What Dan experienced on ACDF surgery day General anesthesia and intraoperative nerve monitoring Going home the same day after neck surgery What the first days of ACDF recovery felt like Sleeping and recovering in a cervical neck brace Why Dan rented a five-motor recliner Eating and swallowing after anterior cervical surgery Walking and mobility during early recovery The mental and emotional side of recovering from surgery Changes in Dan's gait and neurological symptoms What an ACDF incision and scar can look like Why multiple medical opinions mattered in Dan's decision The importance of becoming your own health advocate If you haven't listened to Part 1 yet, start there to hear how changes in Dan's gait led to MRIs, three different neurosurgical opinions, and ultimately his decision to undergo ACDF surgery. Text us your thoughts, questions, or takeaways. We read every message. All views, opinions, and commentary expressed on The Health Hunt Podcast are solely those of the hosts. They are shared in a personal capacity and do not represent the views, policies, or positions of any current or former employer, including any organizations with which the hosts may be professionally affiliated. Connect with the Health Hunt Website Instagram LinkedIn TikTok YouTube Email: info@thehealthhunt.com The Health Hunt Fullscript Store - Practitioner-grade supplements and wellness products with community discounts up to 25% off The Health Hunt's Prenuvo Discount - Save $300 on a full-body MRI scan Igniton (15% Off Cellular Health & Longevity Products for Health Hunt Listeners)

What do you do when three highly respected neurosurgeons give you different opinions? In this deeply personal episode of The Health Hunt , Dan shares the story behind one of the biggest health decisions of his life, undergoing ACDF (Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion) surgery after years of neck issues suddenly took a dramatic turn. It all started with one unexpected symptom: a subtle change in the way he walked. That single change led to new MRIs, consultations with multiple specialists, and the discovery of severe spinal cord compression , cervical spinal stenosis, bone spurs, and a herniated disc. In Part 1 of this two-part series, Dan explains how he navigated conflicting medical opinions, what his MRI actually revealed, and why he ultimately decided that surgery was the right choice. Whether you're dealing with chronic neck pain, spinal stenosis, a herniated disc, or simply facing a difficult medical decision, this episode offers practical insight into becoming a better advocate for your own health. In this episode, you'll learn: • The subtle symptom that changed everything • What severe cervical spinal stenosis really means • Bone spurs (osteophytes), herniated discs, spinal cord compression, and cervical myelopathy explained in plain English • Why Dan sought opinions from three different neurosurgeons • What ACDF surgery is and how it's performed • The surprising "33% Rule" discussed during surgical consultations • How to approach major medical decisions with confidence instead of fear This is Part 1 of Dan's spinal surgery journey. In Part 2, he takes you inside surgery day, shares what recovery has really been like, and reflects on the biggest lessons he learned along the way. Text us your thoughts, questions, or takeaways. We read every message. All views, opinions, and commentary expressed on The Health Hunt Podcast are solely those of the hosts. They are shared in a personal capacity and do not represent the views, policies, or positions of any current or former employer, including any organizations with which the hosts may be professionally affiliated. Connect with the Health Hunt Website Instagram LinkedIn TikTok YouTube Email: info@thehealthhunt.com The Health Hunt Fullscript Store - Practitioner-grade supplements and wellness products with community discounts up to 25% off The Health Hunt's Prenuvo Discount - Save $300 on a full-body MRI scan Igniton (15% Off Cellular Health & Longevity Products for Health Hunt Listeners)

Can sleep apnea actually improve? Most people assume that once they're diagnosed with sleep apnea, they'll need treatment forever. But what if the story isn't that simple? In this episode, Dan shares something incredibly personal: the results of three sleep studies spanning seven years. From a diagnosis of moderate obstructive sleep apnea in 2019 to dramatically improved numbers in 2026, we explore what changed, why it may have happened, and what his experience could mean for others living with sleep apnea. You'll learn what AHI (Apnea-Hypopnea Index) actually measures, why oxygen saturation and sleep position matter, and how weight loss, side sleeping, and lifestyle changes may influence sleep apnea severity. This isn't medical advice, and everyone's journey is different. But it's an encouraging reminder that some aspects of health aren't fixed in stone and that tracking your progress can be just as important as getting your initial diagnosis. In This Episode: • Dan compares three sleep studies over seven years • What AHI really means and why it matters • Why oxygen saturation may be just as important as AHI • The surprising impact of sleeping on your side • How a 20-pound weight loss changed Dan's numbers • Can CPAP therapy improve your breathing over time? • Why Dan is transitioning from CPAP to a new oral appliance • The importance of retesting instead of assuming your sleep apnea will always stay the same Mentioned in This Episode: • Obstructive Sleep Apnea • Home Sleep Studies vs. In-Lab Sleep Studies • CPAP Therapy • Oral Appliance Therapy (ProSomnus) • AHI (Apnea-Hypopnea Index) • Oxygen Saturation • Positional Sleep Apnea Text us your thoughts, questions, or takeaways. We read every message. All views, opinions, and commentary expressed on The Health Hunt Podcast are solely those of the hosts. They are shared in a personal capacity and do not represent the views, policies, or positions of any current or former employer, including any organizations with which the hosts may be professionally affiliated. Connect with the Health Hunt Website Instagram LinkedIn TikTok YouTube Email: info@thehealthhunt.com The Health Hunt Fullscript Store - Practitioner-grade supplements and wellness products with community discounts up to 25% off The Health Hunt's Prenuvo Discount - Save $300 on a full-body MRI scan Igniton (15% Off Cellular Health & Longevity Products for Health Hunt Listeners)

What do sleep trackers, naps, CPAP machines, sleep apnea, and even your dreams have in common? They're all part of the final installment of our three-part conversation with Dr. Michael Breus, better known as The Sleep Doctor. In this episode, Dr. Breus tackles some of the biggest questions in modern sleep health. Are devices like Oura Ring, Whoop, and Apple Watch actually accurate? How much deep sleep do you really need? Are naps helping or hurting your sleep? And if you've been diagnosed with sleep apnea, are CPAP machines your only option? We also dive into the differences between obstructive and central sleep apnea, emerging treatment options, why sleep disorders in women are often overlooked, and what Dr. Breus believes is the next frontier in sleep science. If you've ever wondered whether you're getting enough deep sleep, whether your sleep tracker is making you anxious, or whether your daytime fatigue might be a sign of something more serious, this episode is packed with practical insights from one of the world's leading sleep experts. In This Episode: • How accurate are sleep trackers like Oura, Whoop, and Apple Watch? • Why you should focus on sleep trends, not nightly scores • What healthy REM, deep sleep, and light sleep percentages look like • The truth about naps and who should avoid them • Obstructive vs. central sleep apnea: what's the difference? • CPAP alternatives, including oral appliances, Inspire, ExciteOSA, and emerging treatments • Why sleep apnea in women is often missed or misdiagnosed • The surprising relationship between sleep, dreams, and emotional processing • How sleep can impact a relationship and what to do about it • Why sleep may be the most important longevity tool available Connect with Dr. Michael Breus: Website Instagram YouTube Take Dr. Breus's Sleep Type (Chronotype) Quiz Text us your thoughts, questions, or takeaways. We read every message. All views, opinions, and commentary expressed on The Health Hunt Podcast are solely those of the hosts. They are shared in a personal capacity and do not represent the views, policies, or positions of any current or former employer, including any organizations with which the hosts may be professionally affiliated. Connect with the Health Hunt Website Instagram LinkedIn TikTok YouTube Email: info@thehealthhunt.com The Health Hunt Fullscript Store - Practitioner-grade supplements and wellness products with community discounts up to 25% off The Health Hunt's Prenuvo Discount - Save $300 on a full-body MRI scan Igniton (15% Off Cellular Health & Longevity Products for Health Hunt Listeners)

Do you ever find yourself wide awake at 3 a.m ., staring at the ceiling while your brain decides it's the perfect time to replay every awkward conversation you've ever had or solve problems that don't even exist yet? You're not alone. In Part 2 of our conversation with renowned sleep expert Dr. Michael Breus, better known as The Sleep Doctor, we tackle one of the most common sleep complaints on the planet: waking up in the middle of the night and struggling to get back to sleep. Dr. Breus explains why it happens, what you're probably doing wrong when it does, and shares the exact strategies he recommends to help you fall back asleep faster. Plus, he reveals his simple, science-backed 5-step framework for better sleep that anyone can start using tonight. Dr. Michael Breus is a double board-certified clinical psychologist, clinical sleep specialist, Diplomate of the American Board of Sleep Medicine, Fellow of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, and one of the world's most recognized voices in sleep health. He has spent more than 25 years helping people improve their sleep and overall health and is the author of five bestselling books. In this episode, we discuss: • Why waking up between 1 a.m. and 3 a.m. is actually part of normal human biology • The biggest mistakes people make when they wake up in the middle of the night • Why checking the clock may be making your sleep problem worse • Dr. Breus' "3 A.M. Wake-Up Protocol" • How 4-7-8 breathing can help lower your heart rate and calm your nervous system • The role of mindset and "monkey mind" in middle-of-the-night awakenings • When you should stay in bed and when you should get up • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) and sleep restriction therapy • Dr. Breus' 5-Step Plan for Better Sleep • Why wake-up time matters more than bedtime • The ideal caffeine cutoff time • How alcohol impacts sleep quality • The connection between exercise and restorative sleep • Why morning sunlight may be one of the most powerful sleep tools available Whether you're struggling with 3 a.m. wake-ups, trying to improve your sleep quality, or simply looking for practical sleep advice that actually works, this episode is packed with actionable strategies you can start using immediately. Connect with Dr. Michael Breus: Website Instagram YouTube Resources Mentioned Sleep Reset (CBT-I program) Sleep Doctor's Video "How to fall back asleep in the middle of the night" Text us your thoughts, questions, or takeaways. We read every message. All views, opinions, and commentary expressed on The Health Hunt Podcast are solely those of the hosts. They are shared in a personal capacity and do not represent the views, policies, or positions of any current or former employer, including any organizations with which the hosts may be professionally affiliated. Connect with the Health Hunt Website Instagram LinkedIn TikTok YouTube Email: info@thehealthhunt.com The Health Hunt Fullscript Store - Practitioner-grade supplements and wellness products with community discounts up to 25% off The Health Hunt's Prenuvo Discount - Save $300 on a full-body MRI scan Igniton (15% Off Cellular Health & Longevity Products for Health Hunt Listeners)

Sleep is one of the most important and misunderstood pillars of health. We've spent a lot of time discussing sleep on The Health Hunt, including an entire three-part sleep series, but for this conversation we decided to bring in one of the biggest names in the field. Dr. Michael Breus , better known as The Sleep Doctor , has spent more than 25 years helping people understand and improve their sleep. In this first part of our conversation, we explore why sleep is so foundational to health, how poor sleep impacts everything from memory and mood to relationships and longevity, and some surprising symptoms that could be signs your sleep isn't as healthy as you think. We also dive into one of Dr. Breus's most fascinating concepts: the idea that not everyone is designed to sleep, wake, and function the same way. Some people thrive in the morning, some come alive at night, and understanding your unique sleep type (your chronotype) may completely change how you think about your energy, productivity, and overall health. Whether you're someone who wakes up refreshed at dawn, struggles through every morning, or simply wants to sleep better, this episode is packed with insights that may change the way you think about sleep forever. In this episode, we discuss: • Why sleep is the foundation of overall health • The difference between sleep quantity and sleep quality • Surprising signs and symptoms of poor sleep • Why sleep affects memory, mood, focus, metabolism, and relationships • Sleep disorders people often overlook • The connection between sleep and long-term health outcomes • Why some people seem to function on very little sleep • Dr. Breus's four sleep types: Lion, Bear, Wolf, and Dolphin • The genetics behind sleep timing and energy patterns • Why your sleep patterns may change as you age • How understanding your sleep type can improve your daily routine Take Dr. Breus's Sleep Type (Chronotype) Quiz Connect with Dr. Michael Breus: Website Instagram YouTube Text us your thoughts, questions, or takeaways. We read every message. All views, opinions, and commentary expressed on The Health Hunt Podcast are solely those of the hosts. They are shared in a personal capacity and do not represent the views, policies, or positions of any current or former employer, including any organizations with which the hosts may be professionally affiliated. Connect with the Health Hunt Website Instagram LinkedIn TikTok YouTube Email: info@thehealthhunt.com The Health Hunt Fullscript Store - Practitioner-grade supplements and wellness products with community discounts up to 25% off The Health Hunt's Prenuvo Discount - Save $300 on a full-body MRI scan Igniton (15% Off Cellular Health & Longevity Products for Health Hunt Listeners)

If you're eating more protein, tracking your glucose, taking supplements, and trying to make healthier choice, but still overlooking fiber , you may be missing one of the most important pieces of the health puzzle. In part two of our conversation with wellness educator and Holistic Business Network founder Michelle Fletcher, we dive into the surprising role fiber plays in colon health, blood sugar regulation, metabolic health, digestion, and long-term disease prevention. We also explore why most people aren't getting nearly enough fiber, how processed foods have changed the way we eat, and the simple habits that can have the biggest impact on overall health. In this episode, Michelle shares practical strategies for increasing fiber without completely overhauling your diet, why gradual changes are often more sustainable than dramatic ones, and how nutrition, sleep, movement, and stress management work together to support long-term wellness. We discuss: How much fiber men and women should be getting each day Why most people fall far short of recommended fiber intake The connection between fiber, colon health, and digestion Fiber's role in blood sugar control and metabolic health High-fiber foods to prioritize, including fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts, and seeds Why processed foods contribute to the fiber gap The risks of making dietary changes too quickly The "Core Four" habits of health: nutrition, sleep, movement, and stress management Holistic wellness approaches and complementary health modalities The importance of community, connection, and social wellness Whether you're focused on gut health, improving your metabolic health, building healthier habits, or simply trying to feel your best, this conversation offers practical and realistic insights that anyone can start applying today. Connect With Michelle Fletcher Instagram: @theholisticbusinessnetwork @healthcoachmich Website: TheHolisticBusinessNetwork.com Facebook: Michelle Fletcher South Florida LinkedIn: Michelle Fletcher Text us your thoughts, questions, or takeaways. We read every message. All views, opinions, and commentary expressed on The Health Hunt Podcast are solely those of the hosts. They are shared in a personal capacity and do not represent the views, policies, or positions of any current or former employer, including any organizations with which the hosts may be professionally affiliated. Connect with the Health Hunt Website Instagram LinkedIn TikTok YouTube Email: info@thehealthhunt.com The Health Hunt Fullscript Store - Practitioner-grade supplements and wellness products with community discounts up to 25% off The Health Hunt's Prenuvo Discount - Save $300 on a full-body MRI scan Igniton (15% Off Cellular Health & Longevity Products for Health Hunt Listeners)

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed trying to figure out the “right” way to eat, this episode is for you. In part one of our conversation with Michelle Fletcher, founder of the Holistic Business Network and longtime wellness educator, we dive into plant-based nutrition, whole foods, processed foods, sugar, smoothies, protein, and the growing confusion around modern health trends. We talk honestly about veganism, vegetarianism, personalized nutrition, and why there may not be a one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to feeling your best. From blood sugar spikes and protein smoothies to cheese addictions and French fries, this conversation is packed with practical health insights, humor, and relatable moments that almost everyone will recognize in their own relationship with food. Michelle shares her personal journey from working in IT and data analysis to becoming deeply immersed in the wellness world after discovering the power of whole food nutrition and plant-based eating. She also explains why she believes modern society has become increasingly disconnected from where food actually comes from, and how that disconnect may be impacting our health. In this episode, we discuss: What “plant-based” actually means Plant-based eating vs veganism vs vegetarianism Why many people don’t eat enough fruits and vegetables The decline in nutrient quality in modern foods Blood sugar spikes from smoothies and juices Protein, fiber, and balancing meals Why nutrition should be individualized Processed foods and the modern food environment Emotional relationships with food and cravings How to start making healthier choices without becoming overwhelmed And yes… there is also a very passionate side discussion about cheese, French fries, and why some of us are emotionally attached to comfort foods. In part two, we shift into a deeper conversation about fiber, colon health, metabolic health, holistic wellness, stress, movement, sleep, and the importance of community and human connection in overall health. Connect With Michelle Fletcher Instagram: @theholisticbusinessnetwork @healthcoachmich Website: TheHolisticBusinessNetwork.com Facebook: Michelle Fletcher South Florida LinkedIn: Michelle Fletcher Text us your thoughts, questions, or takeaways. We read every message. All views, opinions, and commentary expressed on The Health Hunt Podcast are solely those of the hosts. They are shared in a personal capacity and do not represent the views, policies, or positions of any current or former employer, including any organizations with which the hosts may be professionally affiliated. Connect with the Health Hunt Website Instagram LinkedIn TikTok YouTube Email: info@thehealthhunt.com The Health Hunt Fullscript Store - Practitioner-grade supplements and wellness products with community discounts up to 25% off The Health Hunt's Prenuvo Discount - Save $300 on a full-body MRI scan Igniton (15% Off Cellular Health & Longevity Products for Health Hunt Listeners)

If you’ve ever wondered whether brain fog, low energy, chronic stress, inflammation, emotional reactivity, and accelerated aging are all connected, this episode will completely challenge the way you think about health and human performance. In part two of our conversation with Ashley Grace, Chief Marketing Officer of Igniton , we move beyond supplements and into a much bigger discussion about cellular energy, consciousness, stress, cognition, nervous system regulation, quantum technology, and the future of health optimization. What starts as a conversation about NAD+, inflammation, and longevity evolves into a fascinating exploration of energy, vibration, emotional regulation, structured water, and whether improving our internal environment can actually change the way we experience the world around us. In this episode, Ashley explains why he believes supplements are only one piece of the puzzle and why diet, movement, meditation, gratitude, sleep, and stress management are foundational to healthy aging and cognitive performance. We also discuss: Why there is no “magic pill” for longevity The importance of exercise, movement, and nervous system regulation Meditation, prayer, gratitude, and emotional resilience How to think about supplements more intentionally Biomarkers that may help track inflammation and aging CRP, IL-6, GGT, blood pressure, and cognition testing Omega-3s, Vitamin D, Vitamin K2, Vitamin C, and other commonly used supplements Igniton’s cognition, longevity, and sleep-focused products Quantum energy, structured water, and energetic “charging” The relationship between consciousness, emotional regulation, and physiology Why Ashley believes improving your “internal environment” changes how you experience life And yes… this is also the episode where the word “fascinating” may have been used enough times to unintentionally create a drinking game. Whether you’re deeply into biohacking and longevity or simply trying to understand why modern life leaves so many of us feeling exhausted and disconnected, this conversation is guaranteed to make you think differently. Resources Mentioned Igniton 15% off for Health Hunt listeners: https://www.igniton.com/HEALTHHUNT Ashley Grace The Biohacking Standards Podcast - with Ashley Grace Igniton cognition and memory quizzes Biomarkers & Testing Mentioned CRP (C-Reactive Protein) IL-6 (Interleukin-6) GGT (Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase) Blood pressure Vitamin D levels Omega-3 testing Zinc + copper testing Supplements Mentioned Omega-3 Vitamin C Vitamin D Vitamin K2 CoQ10 PQQ Resveratrol NADH Nicotinamide Riboside Reduced Glutathione Berberine Text us your thoughts, questions, or takeaways. We read every message. All views, opinions, and commentary expressed on The Health Hunt Podcast are solely those of the hosts. They are shared in a personal capacity and do not represent the views, policies, or positions of any current or former employer, including any organizations with which the hosts may be professionally affiliated. Connect with the Health Hunt Website Instagram LinkedIn TikTok YouTube Email: info@thehealthhunt.com The Health Hunt Fullscript Store - Practitioner-grade supplements and wellness products with community discounts up to 25% off The Health Hunt's Prenuvo Discount - Save $300 on a full-body MRI scan Igniton (15% Off Cellular Health & Longevity Products for Health Hunt Listeners)

If you’ve ever wondered whether aging, brain fog, low energy, inflammation, and burnout are really just “normal” or if there’s something deeper happening underneath the surface, this episode will completely challenge the way you think about health. In part one of this fascinating conversation, we sit down with Ashley Grace, Chief Marketing Officer of Igniton , to explore cellular health, NAD+, mitochondria, inflammation, stress, and why so many people feel depleted in modern life. What starts as a conversation about supplements quickly turns into a much bigger discussion about how the body actually creates energy, why recovery changes as we age, and whether we’ve been thinking about health at the wrong level entirely. Ashley shares his personal story of surviving a devastating accident, navigating chronic pain, and eventually entering the alternative health and CBD world through Charlotte’s Web, the company that helped bring CBD into the national spotlight after the remarkable story of Charlotte Figi. We also dive into: What mitochondria actually do and why they matter NAD+ explained in simple terms Why energy production changes as we age Brain fog, inflammation, stress, and modern life The connection between cellular health and longevity Why Ashley believes health should be viewed as an interconnected system, not isolated symptoms The role hydrogen may play in the body The science and philosophy behind Igniton’s products Why some supplements may work differently than others The future of health optimization and biohacking And honestly… this is one of those episodes where our minds were genuinely blown in real time. This is part one of a two-part conversation. In part two, we go even deeper into supplementation, biomarkers, cognition, sleep, consciousness, energy, and the future of wellness technology. Where to Find Igniton and Ashley Grace Igniton Website The AshleyOn Podcast Text us your thoughts, questions, or takeaways. We read every message. All views, opinions, and commentary expressed on The Health Hunt Podcast are solely those of the hosts. They are shared in a personal capacity and do not represent the views, policies, or positions of any current or former employer, including any organizations with which the hosts may be professionally affiliated. Connect with the Health Hunt Website Instagram LinkedIn TikTok YouTube Email: info@thehealthhunt.com The Health Hunt Fullscript Store - Practitioner-grade supplements and wellness products with community discounts up to 25% off The Health Hunt's Prenuvo Discount - Save $300 on a full-body MRI scan Igniton (15% Off Cellular Health & Longevity Products for Health Hunt Listeners)

If you’ve ever wondered whether a full body MRI can actually detect cancer early, or just leave you more anxious than informed,this episode breaks down what these scans really show, what they miss, and how to make sense of the results without spiraling. Full body MRI scans are exploding in popularity, but most people still don’t fully understand what they are, what they’re for, or how to interpret the results without going down a Google rabbit hole. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Giuliana Zaccardelli, Chief of Staff at Prenuvo, to unpack the reality behind preventative imaging—what it can detect, what it can’t, and how it fits into the future of healthcare. If you’ve listened to our recent episodes, you know we both went through the full body MRI experience ourselves, including the anxiety leading up to it and what it actually felt like inside the machine. Now, we’re going deeper with an expert to answer the big questions: What does a full body MRI actually detect? How often do these scans find something serious? What do terms like “nodules,” “cysts,” or “no evidence found” really mean? And how do you interpret all of this without assuming the worst? Dr. Zaccardelli walks us through the concept of interpretive care, arguably the most important part of the process,helping you understand how to take your results and turn them into meaningful, real-life decisions about your health. We also explore the bigger picture: the shift from reactive medicine (treating disease) to proactive, preventative care—and why patients are increasingly driving that change. This conversation is equal parts practical, reassuring, and eye-opening, whether you’re considering a scan yourself or just trying to better understand how to stay ahead of your health. 🔍 What We Cover What a full body MRI scan is—and how it differs from diagnostic imaging Why Prenuvo scans are screening tools, not replacements for tests like mammograms or colonoscopies The difference between nodules vs. cysts (and why they’re often not scary) What “no evidence found” actually means (and its limitations) The role of the post-scan consult and why it matters more than the scan itself How concerning findings are handled and communicated The emotional side of preventative testing: anxiety, reassurance, and decision-making The future of preventative health, wearables, and early detection Text us your thoughts, questions, or takeaways. We read every message. All views, opinions, and commentary expressed on The Health Hunt Podcast are solely those of the hosts. They are shared in a personal capacity and do not represent the views, policies, or positions of any current or former employer, including any organizations with which the hosts may be professionally affiliated. Connect with the Health Hunt Website Instagram LinkedIn TikTok YouTube Email: info@thehealthhunt.com The Health Hunt Fullscript Store - Practitioner-grade supplements and wellness products with community discounts up to 25% off The Health Hunt's Prenuvo Discount - Save $300 on a full-body MRI scan Igniton (15% Off Cellular Health & Longevity Products for Health Hunt Listeners)

Colonoscopy & Colon Health: What it’s really like, how to prepare, and why a test can prevent colon cancer Colonoscopies, colon cancer, and gut health, this might not be the sexiest topic, but it could be one of the most important conversations you’ll ever hear. With colon cancer rates rising in younger adults and screening guidelines now starting at age 45, understanding your options (and what actually happens during a colonoscopy) can literally save your life. In this episode of The Health Hunt , Dan shares his firsthand colonoscopy experience from the prep (yes, we go there) to the procedure itself and why this test is one of the few in medicine that is both diagnostic and preventative . Together, Dan and Sandi break down screening options like colonoscopy vs. Cologuard, the reality of false positives, and what you can do daily to support long-term colon health. If you’ve been putting this off, avoiding the conversation, or assuming it’s something to think about “later”, this episode is your nudge to rethink that. What We Cover Why colon cancer is trending younger The updated screening age (45+) Colonoscopy vs. Cologuard vs. other tests What actually happens during the procedure Why colonoscopies are both preventative and diagnostic Simple daily habits to support colon health (fiber, movement, sleep) Colon Health & Prevention: What Actually Matters Fiber is foundational – supports digestion, feeds gut bacteria, reduces inflammation Variety matters – diverse foods = diverse microbiome = better health Movement counts – even light activity supports colon health Sleep & stress – chronic inflammation impacts your gut Limit risk factors – processed meats, smoking, and excessive alcohol Don’t ignore symptoms – blood in stool, bowel changes, or unexplained weight loss Key Takeaway This isn’t just about testing, it’s about prevention. The best time to think about your colon health is before something goes wrong. Text us your thoughts, questions, or takeaways. We read every message. All views, opinions, and commentary expressed on The Health Hunt Podcast are solely those of the hosts. They are shared in a personal capacity and do not represent the views, policies, or positions of any current or former employer, including any organizations with which the hosts may be professionally affiliated. Connect with the Health Hunt Website Instagram LinkedIn TikTok YouTube Email: info@thehealthhunt.com The Health Hunt Fullscript Store - Practitioner-grade supplements and wellness products with community discounts up to 25% off The Health Hunt's Prenuvo Discount - Save $300 on a full-body MRI scan Igniton (15% Off Cellular Health & Longevity Products for Health Hunt Listeners)

Simple, no-BS advice on gut health, protein, metabolism, and what actually works. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by conflicting health advice, eat less, move more, take this supplement, avoid that food, this episode might be the reset you’ve been looking for. In Part 2 of our conversation with Dr. Jerry Hu, we strip things back to what actually matters: real food, simple habits, and understanding how your body truly works. This is the kind of conversation that makes you pause, rethink what you’ve been told, and realize you may have more control over your health than you think. Dr. Jerry Hu, Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, former pharmacist, and gut health-focused practitioner, joins us again to go beyond theory and into practical, actionable steps. In this episode, we cover: What a simple, effective diet actually looks like (and why it’s not complicated) The truth about protein intake and how much you really need Why resistance training is essential for metabolic health and fat loss How type 2 diabetes develops and why food plays a bigger role than most people realize Jerry’s take on medications as “band-aids” and how to think about long-term health The reality of probiotics vs. prebiotics for gut health How common medications like PPIs (acid reflux meds) may impact your microbiome Why testing your gut microbiome might not be as useful as you think The importance of questioning conventional health advice (and asking “why”) One of the biggest takeaways? Health doesn’t have to be complicated but it does require intention. From the food on your plate to the habits you build daily, small consistent changes can create massive long-term impact. If you’re trying to improve your gut health, lose weight, build muscle, or better understand metabolic disease this episode delivers clear, no-BS guidance. 👉 Haven’t listened to Part 1 yet? Go back and check out Episode 25 with Dr. Jerry Hu to get the full foundation. Contact Dr. Jerry Hu Linkedin Text us your thoughts, questions, or takeaways. We read every message. All views, opinions, and commentary expressed on The Health Hunt Podcast are solely those of the hosts. They are shared in a personal capacity and do not represent the views, policies, or positions of any current or former employer, including any organizations with which the hosts may be professionally affiliated. Connect with the Health Hunt Website Instagram LinkedIn TikTok YouTube Email: info@thehealthhunt.com The Health Hunt Fullscript Store - Practitioner-grade supplements and wellness products with community discounts up to 25% off The Health Hunt's Prenuvo Discount - Save $300 on a full-body MRI scan Igniton (15% Off Cellular Health & Longevity Products for Health Hunt Listeners)

If you’ve been working out, trying to eat “healthy,” and still not feeling better, this episode may change how you think about food entirely. In part one of our conversation with primary care physician Dr. Jerry Hu, we explore gut health, the microbiome, weight gain, and why so many people believe they’re making healthy choices… while unknowingly working against their bodies. This is a deep but surprisingly practical conversation about cravings, metabolism, processed foods, and how what you eat may be shaping your energy, mood, and overall health in ways most of us never learned. Dr. Jerry Hu didn’t come to gut health from theory alone. He shares his personal story of being overweight, exercising harder, taking supplements, and doing “all the right things”, only to realize that the missing piece wasn’t more effort, it was understanding how food interacts with hormones and the gut microbiome. In this first part of our conversation, we explore: Why exercise alone often doesn’t lead to weight loss The connection between gut health and metabolism How the microbiome may influence cravings and hunger Why “calories in, calories out” may be overly simplistic The hidden impact of processed foods and artificial sweeteners Why many people think they’re eating healthy when they’re not How gut bacteria may shape food preferences The surprising relationship between stress, glucose, and exercise Why nutrition education is often missing from traditional medical training The idea that food is more than energy, it’s information This conversation challenges some of the most common assumptions about diet, weight loss, and what it actually means to eat “healthy.” It also sets the stage for part two, where we’ll get much more practical about what to eat, protein, supplements, probiotics, medications, and how to simplify gut health in real life. Part 2 coming next. Contact Dr. Jerry Hu Linkedin Text us your thoughts, questions, or takeaways. We read every message. All views, opinions, and commentary expressed on The Health Hunt Podcast are solely those of the hosts. They are shared in a personal capacity and do not represent the views, policies, or positions of any current or former employer, including any organizations with which the hosts may be professionally affiliated. Connect with the Health Hunt Website Instagram LinkedIn TikTok YouTube Email: info@thehealthhunt.com The Health Hunt Fullscript Store - Practitioner-grade supplements and wellness products with community discounts up to 25% off The Health Hunt's Prenuvo Discount - Save $300 on a full-body MRI scan Igniton (15% Off Cellular Health & Longevity Products for Health Hunt Listeners)

What if your pain didn’t follow logic, because it’s not just coming from your body? In this episode, we share a real-time mind-body experience where chronic symptoms suddenly shifted, neck pain disappeared, back pain appeared, and the brain science behind why pain can move or change location, or not match MRI findings. If you’ve ever had chronic pain, brain fog, migraines, or symptoms that don’t line up with your tests, this conversation will change how you think about what your body might actually be telling you. Dan has been dealing with disruptive chronic neck symptoms for a long time. Imaging showed structural findings, but the symptoms never fully made sense. Then something unexpected happened: his neck symptoms suddenly improved… and his lower back started flaring instead. That shift sparked a deeper conversation about the mind-body connection , the neuroscience of chronic pain, and a concept often referred to as symptom imperative when pain or symptoms move locations as the nervous system continues signaling perceived threat. We talk about: Why pain doesn’t always equal structural damage How MRI findings don’t always correlate with symptoms The concept of “normal abnormalities” (structural findings without pain) How stress, fear, and internal pressure can trigger physical symptoms The brain’s role in chronic pain and nervous system sensitization Why symptoms sometimes move from one body part to another Vacation effect: why symptoms often improve when you're relaxed Hypervigilance, catastrophizing, and learned pain patterns How the brain scans for danger even when no threat exists The mind-body explanation for flare-ups during stressful periods Why getting sick can sometimes follow emotional or mental overload A real example of breaking the “I always get sick” belief loop This is not about dismissing structural findings. It’s about expanding the conversation. Because many people have "abnormalities" on imaging and some have severe pain while others have none. So what explains the difference? The nervous system. The brain’s threat response. And how your body learns patterns over time. If you've ever wondered why your symptoms change, move, disappear, return, or don’t match what doctors find this episode explores a different lens. Because sometimes the biggest shift isn’t fixing one body part. It’s understanding how your entire system is responding. Text us your thoughts, questions, or takeaways. We read every message. All views, opinions, and commentary expressed on The Health Hunt Podcast are solely those of the hosts. They are shared in a personal capacity and do not represent the views, policies, or positions of any current or former employer, including any organizations with which the hosts may be professionally affiliated. Connect with the Health Hunt Website Instagram LinkedIn TikTok YouTube Email: info@thehealthhunt.com The Health Hunt Fullscript Store - Practitioner-grade supplements and wellness products with community discounts up to 25% off The Health Hunt's Prenuvo Discount - Save $300 on a full-body MRI scan Igniton (15% Off Cellular Health & Longevity Products for Health Hunt Listeners)

If you’ve been living with chronic pain, chronic symptoms, or a nervous system that feels stuck in stress or overdrive , this episode is for you. In Part 3 of our conversation with mind-body coach Hillary Rollins, we move beyond the science and the personal story into the question so many people are asking: how do you actually apply this work in real life? In Part 1 , we explored the neuroscience of chronic pain and how the brain and nervous system can create very real physical symptoms. In Part 2 , Hillary shared her personal journey through years of pain, diagnoses, and ultimately finding mind-body healing. This episode is the next step what healing actually looks like in practice . We talk about: What mind-body coaching is (and how it’s different from therapy) How tools like journaling and nervous system regulation are used Why support, community, and guidance can make a difference Resistance, perfectionism, and the pressure to “do healing right” How coaching helps people move from understanding… to actually doing the work One of the most important takeaways from this conversation is that healing isn’t about doing everything perfectly . It’s about creating enough safety in your system, over time, for your brain and body to begin to change. If you’ve ever thought, “This makes sense… but I don’t know where to start,” this episode will help make it feel more possible — and less overwhelming. Resources Mentioned Coaching through Break Awake : Nicole Sachs website: Book: Mind Your Body by Nicole Sachs Podcast: The Cure for Chronic Pain by Nicole Sachs John Sarno Text us your thoughts, questions, or takeaways. We read every message. All views, opinions, and commentary expressed on The Health Hunt Podcast are solely those of the hosts. They are shared in a personal capacity and do not represent the views, policies, or positions of any current or former employer, including any organizations with which the hosts may be professionally affiliated. Connect with the Health Hunt Website Instagram LinkedIn TikTok YouTube Email: info@thehealthhunt.com The Health Hunt Fullscript Store - Practitioner-grade supplements and wellness products with community discounts up to 25% off The Health Hunt's Prenuvo Discount - Save $300 on a full-body MRI scan Igniton (15% Off Cellular Health & Longevity Products for Health Hunt Listeners)

If you live with chronic pain, chronic illness, anxiety, or unexplained symptoms , this episode explores the powerful connection between the brain, the nervous system, and the body. In Part 2 of our conversation with mind-body coach Hilary Rollins , we move from science into story, following her personal journey from years of pain, diagnoses, and fear to lasting recovery through a mind-body approach and healing. If you’ve ever felt stuck in symptoms that don’t fully make sense, this episode offers hope and a new way to understand what healing can look like. In the previous Episode 21, which was part 1 of our interview with Hillary, we talked about the neuroscience of chronic pain and how the brain can create very real physical symptoms even when there isn’t ongoing structural damage. In this episode, Hilary shares her own story, starting with a childhood accident, years of back pain, scary diagnoses, medical procedures, and eventually discovering the mind-body approach that completely changed how she understood her body and healed her chronic pain. We talk about incidental findings on scans, the fear that can come with medical labels, and how the nervous system can learn patterns of pain that continue long after the original trigger is gone. Hilary explains the idea of the “book cure,” the power of belief, the placebo and nocebo effect, and why sometimes just hearing a different explanation for pain can start to shift the nervous system. We also discuss the symptom imperative , why symptoms can move around the body, and how chronic conditions can change form when the underlying stress response isn’t addressed. This episode also touches on something we believe strongly: learning to advocate for yourself. We talk about asking questions, getting second opinions, trusting your instincts, and understanding that doctors have one lens but you are the one living in your body. In Part 3, we’ll talk about the work itself what mind-body coaching looks like, how people retrain their nervous system, and how recovery from chronic symptoms actually happens. Follow The Health Hunt so you don’t miss the final part of this series. Text us your thoughts, questions, or takeaways. We read every message. All views, opinions, and commentary expressed on The Health Hunt Podcast are solely those of the hosts. They are shared in a personal capacity and do not represent the views, policies, or positions of any current or former employer, including any organizations with which the hosts may be professionally affiliated. Connect with the Health Hunt Website Instagram LinkedIn TikTok YouTube Email: info@thehealthhunt.com The Health Hunt Fullscript Store - Practitioner-grade supplements and wellness products with community discounts up to 25% off The Health Hunt's Prenuvo Discount - Save $300 on a full-body MRI scan Igniton (15% Off Cellular Health & Longevity Products for Health Hunt Listeners)

What if your chronic pain isn’t coming from where you think it is? If you’ve been living with chronic pain, unexplained symptoms, anxiety, or health issues that don’t fully make sense, this conversation with mind-body coach Hillary Rollins explores the brain-science of neuroplastic pain, the mind-body connection, and how the brain and nervous system can create very real physical symptoms even without ongoing structural damage. It offers a powerful new perspective on the mind-body connection , neuroplastic pain , and the role of the brain and nervous system in physical symptoms. If you’ve ever felt confused, dismissed, or trapped by a diagnosis, this episode may open a door you didn’t know existed. This conversation is especially personal to Sandi, and it gets at one of the deepest reasons The Health Hunt exists for her, in the first place: to explore the gray areas of health that too many people are living with in silence. We talk about what mind-body work actually means, what it does not mean, and why this topic matters for the millions of people dealing with chronic illness , persistent pain , fatigue , digestive issues , dizziness , tension , and other symptoms that don’t always have clear answers. Hillary breaks down neuroplasticity in plain English and explains how the brain is constantly learning, adapting, and creating patterns. Together, we discuss how chronic pain can become a learned pattern in the brain and nervous system, why the body can stay stuck in fight-or-flight , and how stress , fear , and threat physiology can influence physical symptoms in ways most people were never taught to understand. We also get into the difference between acute pain and chronic pain , why pain does not always equal damage and why damage does not always equal pain, and how modern pain science has changed the conversation. Hillary explains concepts like functional MRIs , the placebo effect , and the nocebo effect This episode is not about saying symptoms are “all in your head.” It is the opposite. It is about validating that the pain is real, the symptoms are real, and the brain-body connection is real. It is about understanding that the nervous system may be trying to protect you in a way that is no longer helpful and that for some people, that understanding alone can be the beginning of healing. Text us your thoughts, questions, or takeaways. We read every message. All views, opinions, and commentary expressed on The Health Hunt Podcast are solely those of the hosts. They are shared in a personal capacity and do not represent the views, policies, or positions of any current or former employer, including any organizations with which the hosts may be professionally affiliated. Connect with the Health Hunt Website Instagram LinkedIn TikTok YouTube Email: info@thehealthhunt.com The Health Hunt Fullscript Store - Practitioner-grade supplements and wellness products with community discounts up to 25% off The Health Hunt's Prenuvo Discount - Save $300 on a full-body MRI scan Igniton (15% Off Cellular Health & Longevity Products for Health Hunt Listeners)

Our Prenuvo full body MRI experience: what it’s really like inside the machine, how to prepare, what to expect from the results and whether a full-body MRI scan is actually worth it for preventative health screening. If you’ve ever wondered what getting full body MRI is actually, especially if you deal with health anxiety, claustrophobia, or fear of medical tests , this episode is for you. We’re sharing the real, raw experience of what happened when we actually showed up for our full body MRI scans at Prenuvo : the nerves, the prep, the panic, the weird little details no one tells you, and the very different ways each of us handled being inside the MRI machine. Because for a lot of people, preventive health screening isn’t just physical, it’s emotional. In this follow-up to Episode 19, we go behind the scenes of our experience at Prenuvo and talk honestly about what it was like from the moment we arrived to the moment we walked out. One of us felt calm and curious. The other had a full claustrophobic freakout and almost didn’t make it through the scan. This is not a polished testimonial or a sponsored ad. Prenuvo provided the scans so we could share our experiences with our audience , but there was no expectation that we say anything positive . This episode is simply our honest experience, including the uncomfortable parts. We talk about: What the Prenuvo full body MRI experience is actually like How to prepare for a full body MRI scan What surprised us most on the day of the appointment Claustrophobia in an MRI machine and what panic can feel like in real time The emotional side of preventive health screening The little things that made the experience easier What the office, MRI setup, techs, and overall environment were like What happens after the scan and what to expect from the results How to think about MRI findings without spiraling into worst-case scenarios If you’re MRI-curious , considering a Prenuvo scan , worried about being inside an MRI machine, or just want to hear a very human conversation about health anxiety and proactive screening, this episode will make you feel a lot less alone. And this conversation isn’t over. In an upcoming episode, we’ll be sitting down with Prenuvo’s Chief of Staff to talk about how full body MRIs work, who they’re for, what they’re not for, and how to approach preventive screening without letting fear drive the bus. Text us your thoughts, questions, or takeaways. We read every message. All views, opinions, and commentary expressed on The Health Hunt Podcast are solely those of the hosts. They are shared in a personal capacity and do not represent the views, policies, or positions of any current or former employer, including any organizations with which the hosts may be professionally affiliated. Connect with the Health Hunt Website Instagram LinkedIn TikTok YouTube Email: info@thehealthhunt.com The Health Hunt Fullscript Store - Practitioner-grade supplements and wellness products with community discounts up to 25% off The Health Hunt's Prenuvo Discount - Save $300 on a full-body MRI scan Igniton (15% Off Cellular Health & Longevity Products for Health Hunt Listeners)