FitgenesUSA

FitgenesPodcast
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Updated Daily

Join Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP, and co-host Mikayla Wachsmann, MS, CNS, as they decode complex genetics into practical, actionable strategies for health, performance, and longevity. Each episode bridges the gap between clinical data and real-world results, breaking down the specific genes and pathways that actually matter—without the hype or technical noise. Whether you are working to shift your own health trajectory or you're a practitioner seeking clearer communication and better clinical outcomes, this show gives you the frameworks to make DNA truly usable. Stop guessing. Start decoding.

Episodes

  1. 5d ago

    Why You're Always Inflamed (And What Your Genes Have to Do With It)

    Do you feel stiff, achy, or completely wiped out by minor daily stressors, poor sleep, or a single less-than-perfect meal? It’s not just a sign of getting older: it’s an evolutionary mismatch hardcoded into your DNA. Join your host, Genetics Expert and International Fitgenes Educator & Trainer Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP, alongside co-host Mikayla Wachsmann, MS, CNS, and Lily, his "Frenchie" (who is busy enjoying a studio spa day). In this episode, we break down why being a "hyper-inflamer" was once a literal lifesaver for hunter-gatherers but has become a modern-day recipe for chronic illness. We explore how a core cluster of 16 genes dictates how your body reacts to the modern "inflammatory soup" of processing foods, pollution, and doom scrolling. In this episode, we cover: The Hunter-Gatherer Superpower: Why a hyper-inflammatory response was essential for surviving prehistoric animal wounds, but why that same genetic trait leaves you defenseless against modern environmental insults.The Three Phases of the Fire: How your specific genes control the spark (Initiation via IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-alpha), the bonfire (Propagation via IL-8, IL-18, and COX), and whether you have a fire truck or a squirt gun to put it out (Extinguishing via IL-10).The Inflammatory Weight Loop: Why highly inflammatory genetic profiles cause people to rapidly balloon with inflammatory water weight from eating half a muffin, and the silver lining of how to drop it just as fast.Nutritional vs. Nutrigenomic Dosing: Why standard supplement guidelines fail to move the needle, and how hitting higher therapeutic thresholds (like over 2 grams of combined EPA/DHA fish oil) actually rewrites your cellular machinery instead of just adding a patch.The Ultimate Anti-Inflammatory Levers: The incredible genetic power of Sulforaphane (broccoli sprout extract) and SOD (Superoxide Dismutase) inducers like zinc and curcumin to help douse chronic cellular flames. Subscribe today and share this episode with anyone who feels like they have the joints of an 80-year-old. Every 5-star rating helps others find this show and unlock the power of their own genetic blueprint. Connect with Dr. Sam: IG: https://www.instagram.com/fitgenesusa/W: www.fitgenesusa.com Are you a health practitioner ready to decode your patients' genetics and offer truly personalized, root-cause care? Elevate your practice by heading over to https://FitgenesUSA.com today to become a certified practitioner and gain access to our advanced genetic testing and clinical support. TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 - Intro: Decoding Your DNA0:51 - Welcome & Genetics/Inflammation1:20 - Inflammation: Genetic View2:02 - Hunter-Gatherers vs Today3:50 - Survival vs Chronic Illness6:25 - Environmental Triggers8:13 - What is Chronic Inflammation?10:33 - Dr. Sam’s Story11:38 - Brain & Gut-Brain Axis13:54 - Top 15-16 Inflammatory Genes18:24 - Red, Yellow, Green Dots22:32 - The 3 Fire Stages25:31 - Risk Profiles29:05 - Blueprint Data to Action33:40 - Targeted Interventions35:38 - Nutrigenomic Dosing38:51 - Key Compounds43:01 - Water Weight & Lifestyle47:09 - Summary & Advice DISCLAIMER:The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, cures or treatment. Neither Dr. Sam nor the publisher of this content takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person or persons reading or following the information in this educational content. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, supplement routine, or overall health plan based on genetic information or podcast discussions. Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP is the founder of and has a direct financial interest in FitgenesUSA testing, the Fitgenes Genetic Blueprint, and the CarbChoice Advanced.

  2. Jul 21

    Why Coffee Makes You Anxious (It Could Be Your Genes)

    Do you feel jittery, anxious, or completely wiped out after a single cup of coffee? It’s not just in your head—it’s in your genes. Join your host, Genetics Expert and International Fitgenes Educator & Trainer Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP, alongside co-hosts Mikayla Wachsmann, MS, CNS, and Lily—his "Frenchie." We break down the "depression combo punch" of caffeine sensitivity. We explore how specific variations in your ADORA2A, CYP1A2, and COMT genes dictate whether coffee gives you a clean energy boost or traps your brain in a state of exhausting hyperarousal. We’ll look at real-life case studies and provide actionable, nutritional workarounds to help you clear caffeine faster and reclaim your calm. IN THIS EPISODE, WE COVER: The "Sleepy Buttons": How the ADORA2A gene controls your adenosine receptors, and why caffeine jams those signals (leaving the "brakes" off your brain).The Liver's Cleanup Crew: Why the CYP1A2 gene determines if you are a "fast" or "slow" metabolizer—and why slow metabolizers stay wired for 8+ hours.The Stress Pileup: The role of the COMT gene in clearing out adrenaline and dopamine, and how a slow COMT creates the ultimate anxiety storm.Nutritional Hacks: How eating cruciferous vegetables (like broccoli and Brussels sprouts) can speed up your body's caffeine clearance.Practical Q&A: Mikayla asks Dr. Sam how to regulate bowel motility and find pre-workout energy without relying on heavy stimulants. If this episode made you rethink your relationship with coffee, hit subscribe and share it with your favorite caffeine addict. Your genes—and your friends—will thank you. CONNECT WITH DR. SAM IG: @fitgenesusaW: FitgenesUSA Are you a health practitioner ready to decode your patients' genetics and offer truly personalized, root-cause care? Elevate your practice by heading over to FitgenesUSA.com today to become a certified practitioner and gain access to our advanced genetic testing and clinical support. TIME STAMPS 0:00 - Intro1:03 - The truth about caffeine sensitivity5:16 - Caffeine-induced anxiety and depression13:33 - Understanding genetics: The traffic light system20:26 - ADORA2A: The brain's "sleepy buttons"24:52 - CYP1A2: The liver's cleanup crew26:41 - COMT: Adrenaline, dopamine, and the anxiety storm32:27 - Managing coffee quality, timing, and volume35:32 - Foods that speed up vs. slow down caffeine detox43:00 - How Magnesium Threonate calms a slow COMT gene47:44 - Coffee alternatives and Swiss Water decaf57:08 - Q&A: Why coffee makes you poop and the "Poop Stack"1:03:25 - Q&A: Getting pre-workout energy without stimulants1:09:22 - Delaying morning coffee for better circadian rhythms DISCLAIMER The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, cures or treatment. Neither Dr. Sam nor the publisher of this content takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person or persons reading or following the information in this educational content. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, supplement routine, or overall health plan based on genetic information or podcast discussions. Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP is the founder of and has a direct financial interest in FitgenesUSA testing, the Fitgenes Genetic Blueprint, and the CarbChoice Advanced. REFERENCES: World Population Review: Which Country Eats the Most Chocolate?Clinical Study: Association between ADORA2A polymorphisms and caffeine-induced anxietyClinical Study: CYP1A2 polymorphism and caffeine metabolism adaptationsClinical Study: Impact of ADORA2A variations on depression and symptoms

  3. Jul 14

    Meet Your Co-Host Mikayla: From Intern to Precision Genomics Expert

    What if your genes aren't a scary, fixed destiny, but a highly personalized owner's manual waiting to be decoded? Join your host, Genetics Expert and International Fitgenes Educator & Trainer Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP, alongside co-hosts Mikayla Wachsmann, MS, CNS, and Lily—his "Frenchie." Get an inside look into Mikayla's journey from Dr. Sam’s very first intern to running a fully remote telemedicine practice. Long before launching her practice, Mikayla was working side-by-side with Dr. Sam, digitally hand-assembling the complex data that eventually evolved into today's premier Fitgenes Genetic Blueprints. Now, she is stepping out from behind the Zoom screen and into the studio to share how she helps clients transition from standard, frustrating "one-size-fits-all" advice to true precision nutrition and lifestyle optimization. Together, this dynamic clinical duo reunites to break down the cutting-edge world of functional genomics, giving you the ultimate owner's manual for your unique biology. In this episode, we will cover: The Pivot to Precision: Mikayla shares her personal "why"—from losing her father to brain cancer as an infant to navigating her own severe gut issues using the Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM) matrix.Demystifying Functional Genomics: Why the Fitgenes Genetic Blueprint is a tool to uncover your body's unique strengths and vulnerabilities, rather than a deterministic diagnosis.The Histamine Protocol: Why healthy "superfoods" like sauerkraut and avocados can cause an overflow in your "histamine bucket," leading to mysterious midsection water weight, morning congestion, hives, digestive issues and migraines.The 80/20 Solution: A realistic, judgment-free coaching strategy to manage a low-histamine lifestyle without sacrificing your absolute favorite foods.Overcoming "Metabolic Barbed Wire": How secondary, acquired stressors—like gut infections, mold, or nervous system dysregulation—wrap around your genes, block their expression, and cause weight or energy plateaus. Connect with Mikayla:• IG: @mw.clinicalnutrition• W: MW-Nutrition.com Connect with Dr. Sam:• IG: @fitgenesusa• W: FitgenesUSA.com Are you a health practitioner ready to decode your patients' genetics and offer truly personalized, root-cause care? Elevate your practice by heading over to FitgenesUSA.com today to become a certified practitioner and gain access to our advanced genetic testing and clinical support. Subscribe & Review:If you loved this episode, please subscribe, share and leave a review. Every 5-star rating helps others find this show and unlock the power of their own genetic blueprint. We have incredible episodes coming up covering caffeine sensitivity, inflammation management, workout recovery, and so much more. TIME STAMPS 0:00 - Intro: Mikayla Wachsmann1:33 - Mikayla's Journey & Mentorship5:47 - Genetics vs Functional Guide7:30 - Gut Issues & Root Cause Care10:48 - Remote Telemedicine Practice13:23 - Histamine Intolerance Signs16:39 - Gut Infections & DNA Data21:12 - Acne, Bloating & Carb Choice24:32 - Wounded Healer & Mold Journey30:39 - Ideal Clients & Lab Testing36:17 - Outro & Closing Message DISCLAIMERThe information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, cures or treatment. Neither Dr. Sam nor the publisher of this content takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person or persons reading or following the information in this educational content. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, supplement routine, or overall health plan based on genetic information or podcast discussions. Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP is the founder of and has a direct financial interest in FitgenesUSA testing, the Fitgenes Genetic Blueprint, and the CarbChoice Advanced.

  4. Jul 7

    Carbohydrates: Why Your DNA Holds the Secret to Your Perfect Diet

    Ever wonder why your best friend can crush sourdough toast and bananas all day with boundless energy, while you just look at a piece of bread and instantly feel bloated, heavy, and exhausted? Join your host, Genetics Expert and International Fitgenes Educator & Trainer Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP, alongside co-hosts Mikayla Wachsmann, MS, CNS, and Lily—his "Frenchie." They crack open the frustrating world of "one-size-fits-none" dieting. If you’ve cycled through Keto, Paleo, and Veganism only to end up more confused than when you started, it’s time to stop the guesswork. Your body isn't working against you—it’s just waiting for the right instructions. Dr. Shay introduces CarbChoice Advanced, a groundbreaking genetic test that analyzes the AMY1 gene to determine exactly how your unique biology handles carbohydrates. Whether you are a health-conscious individual looking for your perfect diet or a healthcare practitioner wanting to upgrade from "a compass and a prayer" to precision medicine, this episode provides the definitive roadmap. In this episode, we cover: The "One-Size-Fits-None" Trap: Why trending diets fail most people and how ignoring your genetics is the missing link in your wellness journey.The AMY1 "Cannons" Analogy: A simple, brilliant way to understand how your mouth produces salivary amylase to fight off carbohydrate "Vikings."The Spectrum of Carbs: How to find your specific "Carb Number" to know if you truly belong on a strict Keto plan, a Mediterranean diet, or somewhere in between.The Practitioner’s Edge: How clinicians can use precision data to eliminate client compliance issues and build long-term lifestyle roadmaps. Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, please subscribe, share and leave a review. Every 5-star rating helps others find this show and unlock the power of their own genetic blueprint. We have incredible episodes coming up covering caffeine sensitivity, inflammation management, workout recovery, and so much more. Connect with Dr. SamIG: https://www.instagram.com/fitgenesusa/W: www.fitgenesusa.com Are you a health practitioner ready to decode your patients' genetics and offer truly personalized, root-cause care? Elevate your practice by heading over to https://FitgenesUSA.com today to become a certified practitioner and gain access to our advanced genetic testing and clinical support. DISCLAIMERThe information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, cures or treatment. Neither Dr. Sam nor the publisher of this content takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person or persons reading or following the information in this educational content. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, supplement routine, or overall health plan based on genetic information or podcast discussions. Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP is the founder of and has a direct financial interest in FitgenesUSA testing, the Fitgenes Genetic Blueprint, and the CarbChoice Advanced.

    Carbohydrates: Why Your DNA Holds the Secret to Your Perfect Diet

  5. Jun 30

    Why Your Genetics Aren't a Fixed Fate (And What to Do About It)

    Are you intimidated by the science of genetics? Do you worry that your DNA is a fixed fate you are powerless to change? Join your host, Genetics Expert and International Fitgenes Educator & Trainer Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP, alongside co-hosts Mikayla Wachsmann, MS, CNS, and Lily—his "Frenchie." Together, Dr. Sam and Mikayla strip away sterile textbook definitions, replacing them with an intuitive framework you can actually use to reclaim your health. We dive headfirst into the "How" of genetics. Learn why your cells are like tiny encapsulated cities, how your inherited genes operate like pages in a recipe book, and what the universal "traffic light" color-coding system (Green, Yellow, and Red dots) actually means for your daily well-being. Plus, Dr. Sam unpacks the buzzword of the decade—epigenetics—explaining how your lifestyle, mindset, and environment act as a dimmer switch to control how your genes behave. In this episode, we cover: The Traffic Light of DNA (Green, Yellow, and Red Dots): Learn the difference between possessing a flawless "Green dot" copy of a gene, a hybrid "Yellow dot" copy, or a "Red dot" copy based on the fitgenes genetic blueprint system. Why "Bad Genes" Aren't Always Bad: Dr. Sam flips the script on "least beneficial" genes. Using estrogen detoxification as a prime example, he explains how a slow-clearing "Red dot" gene was actually a survival superpower during ancient hunter-gatherer times of starvation, even if it backfires in our modern world of chemical overload. The Epigenetic Dimmer Switch: Your DNA is not an on/off light switch—it’s a dial. Learn how epigenetics empowers you to use targeted actions (like high-quality fish oil, air optimization, and precise recovery protocols) to nudge a default "Red" or "Yellow" gene to behave like a healthy "Green" gene. The Sea of Green Trap: Think good genes make you invincible? Dr. Sam reveals real-life insights from his clinical practice showing how individuals with near-perfect "Green" genetics can still end up chronically ill if subjected to extreme environmental toxicity and poor lifestyle choices. Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, please subscribe, share and leave a review. Every 5-star rating helps others find this show and unlock the power of their own genetic blueprint. We have incredible episodes coming up covering caffeine sensitivity, inflammation management, workout recovery, and so much more. Connect with Dr. Sam* IG: https://www.instagram.com/fitgenesusa/* W: www.fitgenesusa.com Are you a health practitioner ready to decode your patients' genetics and offer truly personalized, root-cause care? Elevate your practice by heading over to https://FitgenesUSA.com today to become a certified practitioner and gain access to our advanced genetic testing and clinical support. DISCLAIMER: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, cures or treatment. Neither Dr. Sam nor the publisher of this content takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person or persons reading or following the information in this educational content. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, supplement routine, or overall health plan based on genetic information or podcast discussions. Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP is the founder of and has a direct financial interest in FitgenesUSA testing, the Fitgenes Genetic Blueprint, and the CarbChoice Advanced.

    Why Your Genetics Aren't a Fixed Fate (And What to Do About It)

  6. Jun 23

    Meet Dr. Sam & Rewrite Your Genetic Story

    Welcome to the debut episode of The Fitgenes Podcast! Join your host, Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP—Genetics Expert and Certified Fitgenes Practitioner—and co-host Mikayla Wachsmann, MS, CNS, as they strip away the medical jargon and open up the ultimate user manual for your body. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by conflicting health advice, this episode is your breath of fresh air. Dr. Sam and Mikayla break down why your DNA isn't a genetic death sentence, but rather a personalized roadmap to optimal health. In this episode, we cover:• The Power of Genetics (The One-and-Done Test): Why your genetic blueprint is the single highest-value test you can ever take. Unlike other functional tests that require constant re-testing, your DNA stays the same for life. • Functional Genetics vs. The Rest: Dr. Sam breaks down the four types of genetic testing (genealogy, paternity, disease diagnostics, and functional genetics). Discover why Fitgenes focuses on identifying the drivers of wellness rather than just chasing diseases. • Dr. Sam’s Personal Journey: From crippling joint pain, anxiety, and severe digestive issues to vibrant health. Dr. Sam shares how discovering his own hyper-inflammatory genes and Vitamin D absorption issues changed everything, proving his genes weren't "bad"—they were just mismatched for modern society. • Data vs. Wisdom: Why more data isn’t always better data. Learn how the Fit Genes approach helps practitioners prioritize information so clients get clear, actionable steps for diet, inflammation, and lifestyle without the information overload. Key Takeaway: Your genes are not your destiny. They are your blueprint. By understanding your unique functional genetics, you eliminate the guesswork and gain total agency over how you heal, move, and thrive. Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, please subscribe, share and leave a review. Every 5-star rating helps others find this show and unlock the power of their own genetic blueprint. We have incredible episodes coming up covering caffeine sensitivity, inflammation management, workout recovery, and so much more. Connect with Dr. Sam:• IG: @fitgenesusa• W: www.fitgenesusa.com Are you a health practitioner ready to decode your patients' genetics and offer truly personalized, root-cause care? Elevate your practice by heading over to FitgenesUSA.com today to become a certified practitioner and gain access to our advanced genetic testing and clinical support. Episode Chapters:00:00 — Introduction & Why Genetics is the Ultimate Testing Gap04:24 — The Four Types of Genetic Testing07:51 — Dr. Sam's Personal Health Journey11:06 — Decoding the Results: Hyper-Inflammation and Vitamin D16:14 — Nutritional Dosing vs. Nutrigenomic Dosing17:58 — Evolutionary Mismatches & Caffeine-Induced Anxiety24:42 — Cross-Referencing Blood Work: The Rotating Sushi Tray Analogy30:06 — Rethinking Data Dumps & Exercise-Induced Obesity36:19 — How to Get Started & Outro DISCLAIMER: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, cures or treatment. Neither Dr. Sam nor the publisher of this content takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person or persons reading or following the information in this educational content. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, supplement routine, or overall health plan based on genetic information or podcast discussions. Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP is the founder of Fitgenes USA and has a direct financial interest in FitgenesUSA testing, the Fitgenes Genetic Blueprint, and the CarbChoice Advanced.

    Meet Dr. Sam & Rewrite Your Genetic Story

  7. Jun 23

    Introducing the Fitgenes Podcast: Stop Guessing, Start Decoding

    Join Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP, and co-host Mikayla Wachsmann, MS, CNS, as they decode complex genetics into practical, actionable strategies for health, performance, and longevity. Each episode bridges the gap between clinical data and real-world results, breaking down the specific genes and pathways that actually matter—without the hype or technical noise. Whether you are working to shift your own health trajectory or you're a practitioner seeking clearer communication and better clinical outcomes, this show gives you the frameworks to make DNA truly usable. Learn more, become a practitioner, or find care near you:Western Hemisphere, Europe, & UK: FitgenesUSA.comAustralia & Asia: Fitgenes.comNew Zealand: Nutriscript.co.nz Subscribe & Review:If you loved this episode, please subscribe, share and leave a review. Every 5-star rating helps others find this show and unlock the power of their own genetic blueprint. We have incredible episodes coming up covering caffeine sensitivity, inflammation management, workout recovery, and so much more. Connect with Dr. Sam:IG: https://www.instagram.com/fitgenesusa/W: www.fitgenesusa.com Are you a health practitioner ready to decode your patients' genetics and offer truly personalized, root-cause care?Elevate your practice by heading over to FitgenesUSA.com today to become a certified practitioner and gain access to our advanced genetic testing and clinical support. DISCLAIMERThe information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, cures or treatment. Neither Dr. Sam nor the publisher of this content takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person or persons reading or following the information in this educational content. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, supplement routine, or overall health plan based on genetic information or podcast discussions. Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP is the founder of and has a direct financial interest in FitgenesUSA testing, the Fitgenes Genetic Blueprint, and the CarbChoice Advanced.

    Introducing the Fitgenes Podcast: Stop Guessing, Start Decoding
  • 7 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Join Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP, and co-host Mikayla Wachsmann, MS, CNS, as they decode complex genetics into practical, actionable strategies for health, performance, and longevity. Each episode bridges the gap between clinical data and real-world results, breaking down the specific genes and pathways that actually matter—without the hype or technical noise. Whether you are working to shift your own health trajectory or you're a practitioner seeking clearer communication and better clinical outcomes, this show gives you the frameworks to make DNA truly usable. Stop guessing. Start decoding.

Information

  • Creator
    FitgenesPodcast
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    7
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © FitgenesPodcast
  • Show Website
    FitgenesUSA