The Authentic Health Podcast

Dr. Gus Vickery and Dr. Troy Jackson
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Alternative Health

Welcome to The Authentic Health Podcast, where family physicians and precision medicine experts Dr. Gus Vickery and Dr. Troy Jackson explore what it really takes to live a long, healthy, and vibrant life. With a focus on personalized medicine, disease prevention, and health optimization, we cut through the confusion to bring you practical, evidence-based insights that actually make a difference. From lifestyle changes to supplementation and peptides —we cover the science and the real-world strategies to help you take control of your health and thrive at every stage of life. Let us help you reach your authentic health.

  1. 5d ago

    Why Rucking Might Be the Best Exercise You're Not Doing

    Have you heard of rucking? Rucking is simply walking with weight on your back, but don't let its simplicity fool you. This low-impact exercise can help improve cardiovascular fitness, build strength, improve posture, and increase endurance—all while doing something many of us already do every day: walk. In this video, Dr. Troy Jackson explains: ✅ What rucking is ✅ The health benefits of rucking ✅ How much weight beginners should carry ✅ Why rucking has military roots ✅ How to start safely ✅ Why rucking is a great workout option for people who dislike running or the gym Whether you're walking through your neighborhood, hiking around Asheville, NC, or exploring the trails of Western North Carolina, rucking is an easy way to turn everyday movement into a powerful fitness tool. Before starting any new exercise program, consult with your healthcare provider to make sure it's appropriate for your individual needs. Learn more about Authentic Health: https://www.authentichealth.com #Rucking #WalkingWorkout #HealthyLifestyle #Longevity #FunctionalFitness #AshevilleNC #WesternNorthCarolina #OutdoorFitness #StrengthTraining #HeartHealth #AuthenticHealth

    9 min

  2. Jun 3

    3 Advanced Skin Therapies That Actually Work: GHK-Cu, Red Light Therapy & Collagen

    Are GHK-Cu copper peptides, red light therapy, and collagen peptides worth the hype? In this video, we break down the science behind three of today's most popular advanced skin health therapies and explain who may benefit from each one. If you're interested in anti-aging skincare, skin rejuvenation, collagen production, and maintaining healthier skin as you age, this video covers the evidence behind these increasingly popular treatments. We'll discuss how GHK-Cu supports collagen synthesis and skin repair, why red light therapy (photobiomodulation) has become a favorite for reducing fine lines and improving skin texture, and what the research says about collagen peptide supplementation for skin hydration and elasticity. You'll learn: ✔️ What GHK-Cu copper peptides are and how they work ✔️ The benefits of red light therapy for skin health ✔️ How collagen peptides may support healthy aging ✔️ Which treatments have the strongest scientific evidence ✔️ Why sunscreen, retinoids, and healthy lifestyle habits still matter most Whether you're looking for the best skincare treatments for aging skin, exploring red light therapy benefits, or wondering if collagen supplements actually work, this video provides a practical, evidence-based overview. If you're in Asheville, NC, Greenville, NC, or anywhere else looking for trusted information on skin health and healthy aging, this guide will help you understand where these therapies fit into a comprehensive skincare routine. 👍 Like, Subscribe, and Share if you enjoy science-based health and wellness content. #SkinHealth #RedLightTherapy #GHKCu #CopperPeptides #CollagenPeptides #HealthyAging #AntiAging #SkinCare #Photobiomodulation #Collagen #AshevilleNC #GreenvilleNC #Wellness #Longevity #Dermatology

    16 min

  3. May 27

    The Skin Longevity Masterclass, Part 5: Moisturizers Explained

    How important are moisturizers for healthy skin and longevity? In this episode of The Skin Longevity Masterclass, we break down the science behind skin hydration, the skin barrier, and how the right moisturizer can help protect against dryness, inflammation, and premature aging. You’ll learn: ✔ What the skin barrier actually does ✔ Why hydration matters for skin health ✔ What causes dry, damaged skin ✔ The difference between humectants, ceramides, and occlusives ✔ The best ingredients to look for in a moisturizer ✔ How to support healthy skin as you age Whether you’re dealing with dry skin, sensitive skin, eczema, or simply want healthier aging skin, this video covers evidence-based skincare strategies that actually work. At Authentic Health, we focus on precision health care, longevity, and evidence-based wellness to help you live healthier at every stage of life. 📍 Proudly serving Asheville, NC 🌐 Visit: https://www.authentichealth.com Subscribe for weekly wellness, longevity, and health insights. #SkinHealth #HealthyLiving #Moisturizer #Longevity #HealthySkin #Wellness #EvidenceBasedCare #AuthenticHealth #AshevilleNC #SkinBarrier #Hydration #AntiAging #PreventiveHealth

    13 min

  4. May 20

    The Skin Longevity Masterclass, Part 4: Antioxidants and Serums for Protecting and Repairing Skin

    The Truth About Antioxidants for Skin Aging with Vitamin C, Niacinamide & Skin RepairIf you’re already wearing sunscreen and using retinoids, antioxidants are the next major step in protecting your skin long-term. In this part of The Skin Longevity Masterclass, we’re talking about antioxidant serums — what they actually do, which ingredients matter most, and how to use them correctly for healthier, more resilient skin. And if you live in sunny areas like or, where UV exposure and environmental stress can accelerate skin aging, this is especially important. Why Antioxidants Matter for Skin AgingEven if you’re diligent about sunscreen, your skin still experiences daily environmental damage from: UV radiationPollutionSmokingChemicals and irritantsGeneral oxidative stress These exposures create what are called reactive oxygen species, or ROS — unstable molecules that trigger inflammation, break down collagen, damage DNA, and accelerate visible aging. This is where antioxidants come in. Think of antioxidants as your skin’s repair and defense team. They help neutralize oxidative stress and reduce the inflammation that contributes to wrinkles, pigmentation, and collagen loss. The Most Important Antioxidants for SkinVitamin CVitamin C — specifically L-ascorbic acid — is one of the most researched skincare ingredients for good reason. It helps: Neutralize free radicalsSupport collagen productionBrighten skin toneImprove signs of sun damage But not all Vitamin C serums are created equal. A few things to know: Vitamin C is unstable and breaks down easilyThe best formulas often include stabilizers like ferulic acid and Vitamin ELook for concentrations between 10–20%Sensitive skin types may experience stinging or irritation at first Most dermatologists recommend applying Vitamin C in the morning before sunscreen for extra antioxidant protection throughout the day. Vitamin EVitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that protects your skin’s cell membranes from oxidative damage. It works especially well alongside Vitamin C because the two ingredients stabilize and strengthen each other’s effects. This combination is commonly found in high-quality antioxidant serums. NiacinamideNiacinamide — also known as Vitamin B3 — is one of the most versatile skincare ingredients available. Topically, it can help: Strengthen the skin barrierImprove hydrationReduce redness and inflammationEven pigmentationSupport overall skin texture But what’s really fascinating is the research on oral niacinamide. Studies have shown that taking niacinamide orally may help reduce certain non-melanoma skin cancers and precancerous lesions in high-risk individuals by supporting DNA repair in UV-damaged cells. That’s why many dermatologists discuss it with patients who have: Significant sun exposureA history of skin cancerChronic UV damageFrequent actinic keratoses How to Use Antioxidants in Your Skincare RoutineHere’s a simple way to incorporate antioxidants into your daily routine: Choose a serum with multiple antioxidants like Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and niacinamideLook for stabilizing ingredients like ferulic acidApply in the morning to the face, neck, chest, and handsFollow with broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higherStart slowly if you have sensitive skin The Three Pillars of Skin LongevityWhen it comes to long-term skin health, three categories consistently stand out: SunscreenRetinoidsAntioxidants Together, they help: Protect collagenReduce inflammationImprove skin textureSupport healthier aging skin For patients focused on preventative skincare in and, antioxidants are one of the most evidence-backed tools available for protecting and repairing the skin over time. In the next part of The Skin Longevity Masterclass, we’ll cover moisturizers and barrier repair — one of the most overlooked foundations of healthy skin. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and follow for more evidence-based skincare and dermatology content.

    18 min

  5. May 12

    The Skin Longevity Masterclass, Part 3: Retinoids as Anti-Aging Powerhouses

    Retinoids are considered the gold standard for anti-aging skincare — but with so many options available, how do you know where to start? In this video, we break down everything you need to know about retinoids for skin longevity, including: ✨ Retinol vs retinal vs tretinoin ✨ The best retinoids for beginners ✨ How retinoids boost collagen and improve skin texture ✨ Common side effects like peeling and irritation ✨ How to prevent retinoid dermatitis ✨ Best practices for long-term anti-aging results Whether you’re in your 20s looking to prevent premature aging or want stronger anti-aging support later in life, this guide will help you build a retinoid routine that actually works. We also discuss why sunscreen and moisturizers are essential when using retinoids — especially in sunny climates like Asheville, NC. If you’re serious about healthy aging, smoother skin, and evidence-based skincare, this video is for you. #Retinoids #Retinol #AntiAgingSkincare #SkinLongevity #Tretinoin #HealthySkin #SkincareTips #AshevilleNC

    18 min

  6. Apr 29

    The Skin Longevity Masterclass (Part 2 of 5): Why Sun Protection Is Foundational

    Sunscreen isn’t just for the beach—it’s the most powerful tool we have to protect skin health, slow aging, and reduce the risk of skin cancer. In Part 2 of the Skin Longevity Masterclass, we break down why daily sun protection is essential at every age—and how to do it right.

    16 min

  7. Apr 29

    The Skin Longevity Masterclass (Part 1 of 5): Skin as a Longevity Organ

    When you look in the mirror, your skin is telling a story—one that goes far beyond appearance. It reflects your stress levels, sleep quality, inflammation, and even hormone balance. In many ways, your skin is a direct window into your overall health—and your longevity. Despite being the body’s largest organ (making up about 16% of total body weight), skin health is often overlooked in traditional medicine. Most training focuses on disease, not prevention or optimization. But as the conversation around longevity and healthspan evolves, it’s becoming clear: your skin plays a critical role in how well—and how long—you live. In this first part of our 5-part Skin Longevity Masterclass, we explore why skin is more than a barrier—it’s a dynamic, intelligent organ that reflects and influences your internal health.

    10 min

  8. Apr 22

    GLP-1 Pills vs Shots: Which One Actually Works Better?

    Weight loss medications like semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Zepbound) have completely changed the conversation around weight loss—and now, oral options are entering the picture. In this video, we break down the real differences between GLP-1 pills and injections, including effectiveness, side effects, cost, and who should choose each option. If you’ve been wondering whether a daily pill can compete with a weekly shot, this is what you need to know. In this video, you’ll learn: How oral GLP-1 medications compare to injectionsWhich option leads to more weight lossPros and cons of pills vs. shotsWho should consider oral medications (and who shouldn’t)A physician’s perspective on what actually works best GLP-1 medications are powerful tools—but they’re not one-size-fits-all. The best option depends on your goals, lifestyle, and medical needs.

    16 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Welcome to The Authentic Health Podcast, where family physicians and precision medicine experts Dr. Gus Vickery and Dr. Troy Jackson explore what it really takes to live a long, healthy, and vibrant life. With a focus on personalized medicine, disease prevention, and health optimization, we cut through the confusion to bring you practical, evidence-based insights that actually make a difference. From lifestyle changes to supplementation and peptides —we cover the science and the real-world strategies to help you take control of your health and thrive at every stage of life. Let us help you reach your authentic health.

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Gus Vickery and Dr. Troy Jackson
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    32
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Dr. Gus Vickery and Dr. Troy Jackson
  • Show Website
    The Authentic Health Podcast

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