Next Level Health with Dr. Melinda Ring

The Osher Center for Integrative Health at Northwestern University
  • 5.0 (6)
  • Alternative Health
  • Updated Monthly

Next Level Health bridges the gap between traditional and integrative health through research-backed integrative approaches. Each episode comprehensively explores the latest scientific studies and expert opinions, offering practical insights and actionable advice for optimizing health and well-being. Hosted by Dr. Melinda Ring and featuring leading professionals in the field of integrative medicine, our podcast explores a wide range of topics ranging from nutrition to acupuncture to the latest mind-body therapies and herbal medicine. Whether you're a healthcare provider, a student, a wellness enthusiast, or someone seeking a deeper understanding of integrative practices, Next Level Health provides the knowledge and tools to help you make informed decisions. Join us as we uncover the synergy between conventional treatments and holistic therapies, empowering you to take a comprehensive approach to your wellness journey.

  1. 5d ago

    Health Claims Under the Microscope: A Scientist Explains with Dr. Nicolas Verhoeven

    sits down with Dr. Nicholas Verhoeven, a molecular medicine researcher and creator of the popular Physionic platform, to explore how to make sense of conflicting health research and make smarter decisions about our well-being. Together, they examine the evidence behind some of today's biggest health and longevity trends, including mitochondrial health, omega-3s, creatine, collagen, protein, and emerging supplements. Discover which interventions show real promise, which claims deserve skepticism, and why the fundamentals of exercise, sleep, and nutrition remain so important for long-term health. https://youtu.be/TChQyhnkjOY 01:08 Meet Dr. Nicholas Verhoeven 02:49 Making Complex Health Research Accessible 03:28 How to Identify Studies That Matter 05:01 Evaluating Scientific Evidence 08:15 Four Questions to Ask About Health Research 11:25 Fact-Checking Health Influencers 12:59 Mitochondrial Health and Aging 15:43 Do Mitochondrial Supplements Actually Work? 18:14 Omega-3s and Conflicting Research 21:07 Personalizing Supplement Decisions 22:32 Creatine: Benefits for Muscle and Brain Health 28:23 Can Creatine Help With Sleep Deprivation? 29:07 Creatine for Women in Midlife 30:00 Whey Protein and Exercise Performance 31:00 How Much Protein Do You Really Need? 32:44 Dr. Verhoeven's Personal Supplement Routine 35:27 GlyNAC and Emerging Longevity Research 37:50 Why Less Social Media May Mean Better Health Advice

  2. Sep 28

    Can Dance Be Medicine? The Healing Power of Movement, Play & Connection with Dr. Geeta Maker-Clark

    What if some of the most powerful medicines are things we already have access to every day?  Dr. Geeta Maker-Clark, integrative medicine physician and author of Medicine for All People, joins Dr. Melinda Ring to explore how movement, play and connection can become powerful forms of medicine. From the brain benefits of dance to the healing effects of nature, community and joy, discover simple ways to reconnect with practices that can support a healthier, happier life.

  3. Sep 7

    Bone to Be Strong: Rethinking Women's Health and Longevity with Dr. Vonda Wright

    Our bones do far more than hold us up. They can influence metabolism, brain health and how independently we live as we age. In this episode of Next Level Health, orthopedic surgeon and Unbreakable author Dr. Vonda Wright joins Dr. Melinda Ring to rethink the role of bone and muscle in women's health and longevity and explain why midlife is such a critical window for protecting both. Dr. Wright breaks down what happens to bone, muscle, joints and connective tissue during perimenopause and menopause, including the cluster of symptoms she has termed the "musculoskeletal syndrome of menopause." She also shares practical strategies for staying strong and capable for decades to come, from lifting heavier weights and incorporating impact and balance training to prioritizing protein and getting proactive about bone health. Plus, Dr. Wright discusses why aging doesn't have to mean inevitable decline, the major gaps that remain in research on women over 40, and the ambitious 79-mile mountain challenge she is using to help fund new women's health research. https://youtu.be/B-A_XQd6z-4 In this episode: 00:00 Your Bones Tell Your Life Story 00:54 Why Aging Doesn't Have to Mean Decline 06:15 Strength, Independence and the Freedom to Age Well 07:11 Why Bone and Muscle Are Longevity Organs 10:45 When Should Women Get a Bone Density Test? 12:04 What Perimenopause Does to Muscle and Bone 16:02 The Musculoskeletal Syndrome of Menopause 20:26 The Building Blocks of Stronger Bones 23:00 Strength, Impact, Balance and Nutrition 27:16 Do You Need a Calcium Supplement? 28:21 How Much Protein Do Women Need? 31:40 Closing the Gap in Women's Health Research 36:56 Dr. Wright's Advice for Aging With Power Unbreakable: A Woman's Guide to Aging With Power by Dr. Vonda Wright is available now. Find out more about Dr. Wright's work. Check out "Moving the Mountain: 79 Miles. $79 Million. The future of women's health research one step at a time."  Subscribe to Next Level Health for science-backed, practical conversations about integrative health, longevity and well-being.

  4. Jul 20

    How to Reduce Toxins in Your Everyday Life (Without Becoming Obsessed) with Dr. Aly Cohen

    Environmental toxins may be part of modern life, but reducing your exposure doesn't have to be overwhelming. On this episode of "Next Level Health," Dr. Melinda Ring sits down with board-certified rheumatologist and environmental health expert Dr. Aly Cohen to explore how everyday chemicals in our food, water, personal care products, and homes may influence our health. Dr. Cohen shares her practical "Four A's" framework for reducing toxic exposures, explains why detox isn't about cleanses or expensive supplements, and offers realistic, science-backed strategies that fit into everyday life. Learn where to focus your efforts, which changes offer the greatest impact, and why small, consistent habits matter more than perfection.  https://youtu.be/04a_OP8lNVw

  5. Jun 29

    DNA Methylation and Longevity: Can You Influence Your Genetic Future?

    Can you really slow the aging process? In this episode of Next Level Health, Dr. Melinda Ring talks with functional medicine physician and researcher Dr. Kara Fitzgerald about the science of biological aging and what actually influences it. They unpack DNA methylation in simple terms, discuss why it's never too late to improve your health, explore the evidence behind biological age testing, and explain how a diet rich in polyphenols, protein, and key nutrients may support healthier gene expression. Dr. Fitzgerald also shares practical strategies for healthy aging, women's health, and building habits that promote vitality for years to come. 00:00 Why it's never too late to improve how you age 00:00:25 Welcome to Next Level Health 00:00:54 Healthy aging: separating science from hype 00:02:10 How much control do we really have over aging? 00:03:37 Why exercise becomes even more powerful as we get older 00:05:28 Biological age vs. chronological age explained 00:06:21 What is DNA methylation? (In plain English) 00:09:40 Should you test your biological age? 00:10:55 The pros and cons of longevity testing 00:13:09 Inside the Younger You protocol 00:14:00 The foods that support healthy gene expression 00:15:45 Why eggs, liver, and protein matter for methylation 00:20:44 Healthy aging for women and ovarian health 00:22:44 Can diet support menopause and hormonal health? 00:23:52 One daily habit to slow biological aging 00:25:35 Final takeaways: Your biology is listening   https://youtu.be/KpVsySPtBeY

  6. Jun 8

    Why We Keep Repeating the Same Mistakes & How to Break the Cycle with Dr. Carl Greer

    Despite our efforts, many of us stay stuck in the same emotional patterns, old stories, and unhelpful habits. In this episode of Next Level Health, Dr. Melinda Ring sits down with retired clinical psychologist, Jungian analyst, shamanic practitioner, philanthropist, and bestselling author Carl Greer to explore the inner work that can unlock lasting transformation. Drawing from Jungian psychology, shamanic traditions, and decades of clinical experience, Greer explains how our unconscious beliefs, patterns, and personal stories can influence everything from our relationships and life choices to our physical health. https://youtu.be/9wVQQpMtuZ0 00:00 Why inner work matters for lasting change 00:00:52 Meet Carl Greer and the concept of hidden wisdom 00:02:48 Why we struggle to change even when we want to 00:04:12 What it really means to "go within" 00:05:42 Fear, resistance, and avoiding self-discovery 00:07:31 How health, relationships, purpose, and spirituality connect 00:10:40 Dialoguing with emotions, symptoms, and inner parts 00:12:33 Practical exercises for accessing inner wisdom 00:15:01 When to seek professional support for inner work 00:16:03 The role of the inner guardian in healing work 00:17:52 Shamanic journeys and accessing deeper insight 00:19:17 Changing the past to transform present choices 00:21:56 Archetypes, symbols, dreams, and personal meaning 00:24:50 Breaking free from limiting roles and identities 00:26:28 Rewriting your health story 00:29:41 Using illness as a catalyst for reflection and growth 00:32:06 Carl Greer's advice for a healthier, more meaningful life 00:33:46 Final thoughts and resources for going deeper

  7. May 18

    Peptides, Performance & Personalized Health: The Future of Longevity Medicine with Myles Spar, MD

    Longevity medicine is having a moment—but what actually works? In this episode of "Next Level Health," Dr. Melinda Ring sits down with Dr. Myles Spar to cut through the hype around peptides, wearables, and "biohacking," and focus on what truly improves healthspan. From personalized data to foundational habits, this conversation brings clarity to a rapidly evolving space. https://youtu.be/c_q601V1whc 00:00 – The Problem with Longevity Influencers TikTok trends, unverified "experts," and the dangers of self-experimentation 00:00:57 – What Is Longevity Medicine, Really? Why the field is booming—and what's driving the hype 00:02:29 – Why This Moment Feels Different From integrative medicine to mainstream understanding 00:05:29 – Longevity vs. Anti-Aging vs. Biohacking Why language—and intention—matters 00:08:36 – Why Health Advice Feels So Confusing Zone 2 vs. HIIT, keto vs. balance—what actually works? 00:11:20 – Wearables, Data & Health Anxiety When tracking helps—and when it backfires 00:15:55 – Are Advanced Tests Worth It? Biomarkers, personalization, and the need for interpretation 00:20:13 – The "Big Five" That Actually Drive Longevity Why sleep, nutrition, movement, brain health, and purpose still win 00:23:33 – Real Patient Transformations How personalized care moves the needle—even for high performers 00:25:24 – Men, Women & Longevity Trends Who's engaging—and why the landscape is shifting 00:29:54 – Peptides, NAD, Stem Cells: What's Legit? Separating promising science from expensive hype 00:33:54 – How Peptides Actually Work Supporting the body vs. replacing its systems 00:35:12 – Can Longevity Medicine Be Accessible? The future of scalable, equitable health optimization 00:37:41 – One Simple Habit for Better Healthspan A practical takeaway anyone can start today Catch full episodes of Next Level Health with Dr. Melinda Ring here on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@OCIHNorthwestern/podcasts 📺   Listen to Next Level Health with Dr. Melinda Ring on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/next-level-health-with-dr-melinda-ring/id1769262080 or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.   — Subscribe to the channel here:  https://www.youtube.com/@OCIHNorthwestern?sub_confirmation=1 — Follow the Osher Center for Integrative Health at Northwestern University here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nmoshercenter/   Website: https://www.feinberg.northwestern.edu/sites/ocih/index.html — Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.feinberg.northwestern.edu/sites/ocih/about-us/newsletter.html

  8. Apr 27

    Cannabis & the Body: The Hidden System That Could Change Medicine with Mikhail Kogan, MD

    Medical cannabis is more widely available than ever before, but most clinicians are not trained to guide patients on how to use it safely or effectively. In this episode of "Next Level Health," Dr. Melinda Ring sits down with Dr. Mikhai Kogan to unpack the science, misconceptions and clinical realities of cannabis in modern medicine. They also discuss the recent article published in JAMA Network Open: "Developing Medical Cannabis Competencies: A Consensus Statement," in which Kogan was a senior author and Ring was a co-author. https://youtu.be/cY96j3aBhTw 00:00 – Can cannabis be a tool for health? A nuanced perspective on using cannabis with intention and respect. 00:00:21 – Show intro: What is Next Level Health? Dr. Melinda Ring introduces the mission of the podcast. 00:00:50 – Why clinicians aren't trained in medical cannabis The gap between legalization and medical education. 00:02:10 – Cannabis through history: From ancient medicine to prohibition How cannabis went from a standard treatment to a Schedule I substance. 00:05:11 – What Schedule I really means for research and doctors Why cannabis research is limited—and what that means for patient care. 00:07:22 – The push for cannabis education in medical schools Inside the JAMA Network Open competencies initiative. 00:10:12 – Patients are learning—but are they learning the right things? The rise of public awareness (and misinformation). 00:11:13 – The endocannabinoid system explained How your body naturally regulates pain, sleep, and stress. 00:12:40 – Why cannabis may be more foundational than opioids Rethinking pain management and the opioid crisis. 00:14:53 – THC vs. CBD: What's the difference? Breaking down the most common cannabinoids. 00:19:34 – Beyond CBD: Emerging cannabinoids (CBG, CBN, and more) What's hype vs. what's clinically useful. 00:20:13 – The "entourage effect" and whole-plant medicine Why full-spectrum cannabis may work differently than isolates. 00:21:43 – Navigating dispensaries and product choices Why patients are often left figuring it out on their own. 00:24:57 – Cannabis coaches and the future of guidance Who can help patients when doctors can't prescribe? 00:27:36 – Is cannabis safe? Side effects, risks, and withdrawal What patients need to realistically understand. 00:30:16 – Long-term use and dependency: What's the truth? Distinguishing between physical and psychological effects. 00:30:52 – Final takeaway: A smarter approach to health Cannabis as one tool in a lifelong wellness strategy. 00:32:42 – Closing reflections and next steps Why education, nuance, and open conversation matter. Catch full episodes of Next Level Health with Dr. Melinda Ring here on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@OCIHNorthwestern/podcasts 📺 Listen to Next Level Health with Dr. Melinda Ring on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/next-level-health-with-dr-melinda-ring/id1769262080 or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts. Subscribe to the channel here:  https://www.youtube.com/@OCIHNorthwestern?sub_confirmation=1 Follow the Osher Center for Integrative Health at Northwestern University here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nmoshercenter/ Website: https://www.feinberg.northwestern.edu/sites/ocih/index.html Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.feinberg.northwestern.edu/sites/ocih/about-us/newsletter.html

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Next Level Health bridges the gap between traditional and integrative health through research-backed integrative approaches. Each episode comprehensively explores the latest scientific studies and expert opinions, offering practical insights and actionable advice for optimizing health and well-being. Hosted by Dr. Melinda Ring and featuring leading professionals in the field of integrative medicine, our podcast explores a wide range of topics ranging from nutrition to acupuncture to the latest mind-body therapies and herbal medicine. Whether you're a healthcare provider, a student, a wellness enthusiast, or someone seeking a deeper understanding of integrative practices, Next Level Health provides the knowledge and tools to help you make informed decisions. Join us as we uncover the synergy between conventional treatments and holistic therapies, empowering you to take a comprehensive approach to your wellness journey.

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