Upgraded Biology

Upgraded Biology

Are you struggling to sift through wellness misinformation? Join me, Dr. Tami, on Upgraded Biology, where we decode science for vitality. In each weekly episode, expect evidence-based insights, practical tips, and expert interviews, all delivered with a passion for empowering your health. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by the flood of conflicting health advice or just looking for a few evidence-based tips to feel better this podcast is your trusted source for upgrading your biology, vitality, and longevity.

  1. Jan 26

    What Is Clean Meat? Regenerative Farming Explained | #upgradedbiology

    In this episode, we dive deep into the philosophy, practices, and purpose behind Ramstead Ranch, a regenerative, pasture-based farm committed to raising animals the way nature intended. Our guest shares the journey from questioning industrial agriculture to building a ranch rooted in animal welfare, soil health, nutrient density, and human health. We explore why how animals are raised matters just as much as what we eat — and how modern food systems have sacrificed quality, ethics, and long-term sustainability for speed and profit. 📢 We Talked About - Why regenerative agriculture is fundamentally different from “organic” - How soil health directly impacts nutrient density in meat - The ethical responsibility of animal stewardship - What most consumers don’t realize about conventional meat production - Why grass-fed, pasture-raised animals produce healthier fat profiles - The environmental myth that cows are the problem - How rotational grazing restores land and ecosystems - The connection between real food, metabolic health, and chronic disease - Why transparency and knowing your farmer matters We also discuss the emotional and spiritual aspects of farming, honoring the animal’s life, and how reconnecting with our food system can radically change our relationship with health, consumption, and the planet. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in real food, regenerative farming, sustainability, ethical meat sourcing, and long-term human and environmental health. RESOURCES: Ramstead Ranch (Regenerative Meat Delivery) https://ramsteadranch.comSpecial Offer: $20 off first order when you create an account on RamsteadRanch.com Subscribe & Save Program (Available on Ramstead Ranch website; Includes ongoing discounts and free items per order) Regenerative Agriculture (general reference): https://regenerationinternational.org Omega-3 vs Omega-6 fats (nutrition background): https://www.health.harvard.edu

    51 min
  2. Jan 12

    Genetics Set You Up | #upgradedbiology

    In this powerful and deeply personal episode, we sit down with Kashif, founder of The DNA Company, to explore how functional genomics can transform health, prevent chronic disease, and empower individuals to become the CEO of their own wellbeing. Kashif shares his own journey from running a successful PR and marketing firm to battling debilitating migraines, eczema, psoriasis, and anxiety — and how uncovering the interaction between his genetics and environmental exposures completely changed his life. Through functional genomics, he discovered that his genes weren’t the problem on their own — it was how his environment, lifestyle, and nutrition interacted with them. 📢 We Talked About - Why traditional genetic testing often creates fear instead of empowerment - How functional genomics focuses on actionable choices, not disease predictions - Why people with the same “bad genes” can have radically different health outcomes - The real story behind BRCA genes, breast cancer risk, and hormone metabolism - Why women’s hormonal health has been misunderstood — and how genomics changes that- The connection between genetics, mental health, dopamine, anxiety, and depression - How personalized data can prevent misdiagnosis and unnecessary medication We also discuss why “one-size-fits-all” medicine fails, how elite athletes are often mismanaged hormonally, and why small, personalized habit changes — when aligned with your DNA — can add 10–15 healthy years to your life.This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in preventive medicine, hormone health, mental wellness, longevity, and taking control of their health with clarity instead of fear. RESOURCES: The DNA Company (Genetic Testing) https://www.thednacompany.com BioThrive Health (Dr. Tami’s Clinic & Podcast) Support Email: Info@biothrive.health  Dr. BJ Fogg – Tiny Habits & Behavior Change https://www.tinyhabits.comhttps://behaviordesign.stanford.edu Harvard Longevity Study (Lifestyle & Life Expectancy) https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/news/press-releases/healthy-lifestyle-can-add-years-to-life Functional Medicine & Epigenetics (General Reference) https://www.ifm.org #FunctionalMedicine #GeneticTesting #DNAHealth #HormoneHealth #Longevity #Biohacking #PersonalizedMedicine #Epigenetics #WomensHealth #MentalHealthAwareness #OptimizeYourHealth #CEOOfYourHealth #HealthPodcast #WellnessJourney

    48 min
  3. Jan 5

    Do We Need Magnesium? | #upgradedbiologypodcast

    In this episode of Upgraded Biology, Dr. Tami is joined by Patrick Sullivan, co-founder of Jigsaw Health, for an in-depth conversation on magnesium and its critical role in cardiovascular health.  Together, they explore why magnesium deficiency is so widespread, how it impacts blood pressure, muscle function, and heart health, and what makes high-quality supplementation truly effective. Patrick shares insights from the Scottsdale Magnesium Study, discusses the importance of third-party testing in supplements, and offers practical guidance for choosing and using magnesium safely and effectively.  This episode empowers listeners to become the CEO of their own health with evidence-based tools that support a healthier heart and nervous system.  📢 We Talked About  Why magnesium is one of the most overlooked nutrients for cardiovascular healthResults from the Scottsdale Magnesium Study and its impact on blood pressureThe role of magnesium in muscle relaxation, heart rhythm, and electrolyte balanceCommon signs and symptoms of magnesium deficiencyHow to identify high-quality, third-party tested supplementsWhy magnesium matters more as we age, especially for womenWant to go deeper into the science behind magnesium, cardiovascular health, and nutrient-dense food? Explore the clinical research, books, and documentaries referenced in this episode to continue your journey toward becoming the CEO of your own health. 📚 Resources: Magnificent Magnesium by Dr. Dennis Goodman The Biggest Little Farm (2018) Breaking Big Food: How the American Food System Went Rotten and How It’s Being Revived (in production) The Scottsdale Magnesium Study MIT Research on Magnesium L-Threonate #UpgradedBiology #Magnesium #HeartHealth #CardiovascularHealth #FunctionalMedicine #Electrolytes #BloodPressure #WellnessPodcast #SupplementSafety #HealthOptimization #PreventiveHealth #HormoneHealth

    59 min
  4. 12/01/2025

    How to Lose Weight AND Keep it Off! #upgradedbiology

    In this highly anticipated conversation, I am joined by renowned registered dietitian, educator, and author Ashley Koff, RD, founder of The Better Nutrition Program and leader in the movement toward true “weight health.” Together, we will unpack the myths, misunderstandings, and biological realities behind the explosive rise of GLP-1–based medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide. With clarity and honesty, we’re going to walk you through the truth: GLP-1 medications aren’t magic and they aren’t monsters. They’re simply biosimilar hormone therapy, and when used with intention, nutrition, and a plan, they can be life-changing. But without the right support? They can create more problems than they solve. From gut health to protein optimization, inflammation, behavioral patterns, and long-term maintenance, this episode redefines how we talk about weight and health — not as separate topics, but as one biological ecosystem that deserves compassion, accuracy, and personalized support. If you or someone you love is using GLP-1 medications (or thinking about it), this may be the most important conversation you hear all year. 📢 We Talked About: How GLP-1 medications mimic your body’s own hormones — and why that matters. The real definition of weight health and why separating “weight” from “health” has harmed generations. Why digestion and absorption matter more than eating more protein. The truth about muscle loss, calorie restriction, and why the meds aren’t to blame. How GLP-1s are influencing inflammation, blood sugar, fatty liver, and even cognitive markers About Ashley: As we enter a new year, GLP-1 is everywhere in conversations and recommendations - much of it not better for you. I’m so thrilled to introduce you to my go-to weight health expert Ashley Koff RD and her new book Your Best Shot. So timely, Ashley has created a playbook to help you assess and optimize your weight-health hormones (GLP-1,GIP etc.) whether using a medication or not. As a practitioner who’s prescribed these medications for over a decade, this is the first and best resource because it leans into all the nuance and guides your thru the personalization that drives better outcomes. I know Ashley’s work firsthand from collaborating with patients and am so grateful she included me in her book.  Your Best Shot  is funny and full of empathy - this is not another book telling you what you should do, it’s a system for how to do it complete with access to her better nutrition coaches. Once you’ve ordered your book head to https://thebetternutritionprogram.com/your-best-shot/ to get access to all the bonuses. #UpgradedBiology #GLP1 #Semaglutide #Tirzepatide #WeightHealth #FunctionalMedicine #GutHealth #MetabolicHealth #AshleyKoff #DrTami#HormoneHealth #BiologyUpgrade #NutritionScience #PerimenopauseSupport #GLP1Journey #BetterNutrition #HealthyMetabolism #ScienceBasedHealth

    1h 13m
  5. 11/17/2025

    Is Protein Powder Good for You? | #upgradedbiology

    Are you tired of conflicting nutrition advice, low energy, or feeling confused about what your body really needs? In this episode of Upgraded Biology, Dr. Tami Meraglia sits down with nutrition pioneer, chef, and NYT bestselling author Leanne Ely for a powerful conversation about women’s health, real food, perimenopause, muscle building, longevity, and how to create sustainable energy at any age. Leanne has been teaching families how to eat real, nutrient-dense food since 1993. Today she reveals the truth behind big food marketing, why high-protein trends can be misleading, and how to simplify nutrition using a holistic, anti-inflammatory approach. You’ll also learn surprising insights about stress, hormones, gut health, and nervous system regulation—and how ALL of these factors affect your energy, weight, longevity, and wellbeing. Whether you're navigating perimenopause, wanting more strength and energy, or simply trying to understand what food your body truly needs, this episode will give you the clarity you've been searching for. 📢 We Talked About  The decline of the family dinner—and why it mattersHow food companies “hook” consumers with additivesHigh-protein trends vs. balanced nutritionThe truth about anti-inflammatory eatingWhy one-size-fits-all nutrition never worksThe role of stress, hormones, and perimenopauseMuscle building as the new “health insurance”Energy as a whole-person experience (mind, body, spirit)Nervous system regulation and why no one’s talking about itHow to become the CEO of your own health #UpgradedBiology #LeanneEly #DrTami #FunctionalMedicine #HolisticHealth #AntiInflammatoryDiet #WomenOver40 #MenopauseSupport #HealthyAging #RealFoodMovement #EnergyHealing #BuildMuscle #LongevityLifestyle

    48 min
  6. 10/13/2025

    Your Detox System Might Be Broken — Here’s How to Fix It

    In this episode of Upgraded Biology, I sit down with Dr. Ann Shippy—former IBM engineer turned physician and functional medicine expert—whose journey from chronic illness to full recovery has inspired a new generation of integrative healers. Through her decades of research and clinical experience, Dr. Shippy has helped thousands uncover the root causes of autoimmune disease, infertility, and chronic fatigue by addressing one of the most overlooked factors in modern health: toxins.We dive deep into how hidden environmental exposures—from heavy metals and mold to microplastics and flame retardants—silently disrupt hormones, mitochondria, and immune balance. Dr. Shippy shares how she used data-driven detoxification, targeted supplementation, and genetic insights to reverse her own autoimmune conditions—and now teaches others to do the same.You’ll learn how to assess your detox pathways, measure toxic load, and support your body’s innate healing systems through key nutrients like glutathione, phosphatidylcholine, and CoQ10. We also discuss fertility and generational health, exploring how parents can optimize their biology long before conception to create healthier future generations.Whether you’re struggling with fatigue, inflammation, or simply want to future-proof your health, this conversation reveals a science-backed roadmap to reclaim your energy, resilience, and vitality—at any age.🔗 Ann Shippy's New Book: https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/AS...🔗 Sponsor: Finnmark Designs Sauna📚 Chapters00:00 – Welcome to Upgraded Biology00:55 – Introducing Dr. Ann Shippy02:00 – From IBM Engineer to Functional Medicine Doctor03:55 – The Rise of Generational Health Issues05:13 – The Deeper Look: Mitochondria, Toxins, and Testing05:49 – Sponsor: Finnmark Designs Sauna07:01 – Why She Chose Traditional Medical School First09:26 – Healing Autoimmune Disease from the Inside Out13:06 – Understanding Detox Pathways and Genetics14:49 – Living in a Toxic World15:43 – How to Test for and Remove Toxins Safely17:40 – The Supplements That Changed Everything21:41 – The Desert-Island Nutrients for Longevity25:40 – Mitochondria: Unlocking the Body’s Energy Code26:40 – Hidden Signs of Toxic Overload28:30 – Prevention vs. Reaction: Rethinking Health Care30:19 – The Broken Model of Medicine31:09 – How Prevention Saved Two Lives32:23 – Your Health Is the Real Retirement Plan34:30 – Compound Interest and the Biology of Habits35:28 – Introducing The Preconception Revolution36:06 – The Secret Garden: Healing as a Metaphor37:20 – Closing Reflections: Be the CEO of Your Health

    38 min
  7. 10/06/2025

    Money, Health, and the Four “I’s” That Are Draining Your Wealth

    In this episode of Upgraded Biology, I sit down with Garrett Gunderson—financial educator, best-selling author of Killing Sacred Cows, and creator of The American Ream comedy special on Amazon Prime. With over two decades in finance and ten published books, Garrett has helped countless entrepreneurs and families rewrite their money stories and reclaim control over their financial health.We explore how finance and functional medicine mirror each other, revealing that wealth—like health—depends on proactive habits, clarity, and consistency. Garrett breaks down his framework for financial resilience: from understanding your Investor DNA and money persona to eliminating the four major “I’s” that drain your wealth—IRS, interest, investments, and insurance.You’ll learn how to build lasting financial immunity, plug hidden leaks, and align your money strategy with your values and purpose. Garrett also shares how stress nearly cost him his life, how he reversed stage-four kidney failure, and why your financial wellbeing can’t be separated from your physical vitality.Whether you’re an entrepreneur, investor, or simply ready to become the CEO of your own financial health, this episode offers timeless strategies and a powerful mindset shift to help you grow your wealth—and your peace of mind.🔗 Free Resource: DM “upgraded” to @GarrettBGunderson on Instagram for his Financial Health Checklists🔗 Sponsor: Finnmark Designs Sauna📚 Chapters00:00 – Welcome to Upgraded Biology00:55 – Introducing Garrett Gunderson03:45 – From Finance to Functional Health04:47 – Stage-Four Kidney Failure & The Power of Stress Reduction05:46 – The Parallels Between Health and Banking07:29 – Discovering Your Investor DNA09:50 – The Four Money Personas12:01 – Choosing Your Financial Lane: Business, Real Estate, IP, Bitcoin14:00 – Cash Flow as the Bloodwork of Financial Health15:16 – Financial Freedom Starts with Awareness16:09 – The Two Financial Health Checklists17:28 – The Ignorance Tax: What You Don’t Know Costs You19:24 – Building a Six-Month Financial Safety Net20:48 – The Four “I’s” That Drain Your Wealth23:19 – The Ignorance Tax vs. Income Tax25:00 – How Insurance Companies Profit from Delay27:10 – Choosing the Right Insurance Agent29:53 – Sponsor: Finnmark Designs Sauna33:01 – Liquidity, Gold, and Bitcoin as Savings34:21 – Financial Goals for Your 20s35:00 – Why Losing Money Early Builds Wealth Wisdom36:02 – The Power of Sales Skills, Networks, and Masterminds38:00 – Money, Stress, and Identity: Lessons from Health Crises41:14 – Why Most People Chase Numbers Instead of Purpose43:55 – Redefining Wealth Beyond the Bank Account46:10 – Turning Pain into Purpose and Creativity49:28 – Comedy, Money, and the Human Condition52:43 – Letting Go of Scarcity and Embracing Flow55:21 – The Real Goal: Freedom, Not Fortune58:03 – Dr. Tami’s Closing Reflections59:12 – Episode Wrap-Up & Takeaways

    1h 4m

About

Are you struggling to sift through wellness misinformation? Join me, Dr. Tami, on Upgraded Biology, where we decode science for vitality. In each weekly episode, expect evidence-based insights, practical tips, and expert interviews, all delivered with a passion for empowering your health. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by the flood of conflicting health advice or just looking for a few evidence-based tips to feel better this podcast is your trusted source for upgrading your biology, vitality, and longevity.