Made for Health

Aaron Hartman, MD
  • 5.0 (8)
  • MEDICINE
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
Made for Health

You were made for health—vibrant, thriving, and full of possibility. But navigating today’s broken healthcare system, endless misinformation, and confusion can feel overwhelming. On Made for Health, Dr. Aaron Hartman cuts through the noise to deliver science-backed solutions that restore your health and reignite your hope. Join us each week for expert insights, practical tips, and inspiring conversations that empower you to harness your body’s incredible power to heal. Whether you're seeking clarity, direction, or just a trusted voice, this podcast is your roadmap to the vibrant life you were made for.

  1. 51: Feel Dismissed by Doctors? – The Truth About Root-Cause Healing & Empowerment with Dr. Jill Carnahan

    2D AGO

    51: Feel Dismissed by Doctors? – The Truth About Root-Cause Healing & Empowerment with Dr. Jill Carnahan

    In this episode of Made for Health, Dr. Aaron Hartman welcomes Dr. Jill Carnahan, a leading expert in functional and integrative medicine, for a powerful conversation about resilience, healing, and the root causes of chronic illness. Dr. Carnahan shares her deeply personal story—surviving breast cancer at 25, living with Crohn’s disease, and overcoming debilitating mold toxicity. These challenges became the catalyst for her shift from conventional to holistic, patient-centered care. Together, she and Dr. Hartman explore the connection between trauma, toxic exposures, belief systems, and spiritual healing in the path to true wellness. This is more than a medical discussion—it’s an invitation to reclaim your health through compassionate, root-cause medicine that honors both science and soul. ✅ Show Highlights:Dr. Carnahan’s journey through cancer, autoimmune disease, and mold illnessWhy trauma and belief systems play a critical role in recoveryHow conventional medicine often overlooks root causesThe role of diet, detoxification, and the environment in healingHer shift from protocols to personalized, whole-person careThe impact of spirituality and mindset in chronic illness recoveryInsights from her new book and documentary 🎯 Some Questions We Explore:How did Dr. Carnahan’s personal health battles shape her medical philosophy?What’s the connection between trauma, the immune system, and chronic disease?Why are environmental toxins often missed in conventional care?How can spiritual practices aid physical recovery? 💡 In This Episode, You Will Learn:The importance of addressing trauma in healing complex illnessWhy belief, choice, and action are cornerstones of recoveryFunctional medicine tools for detox, gut healing, and immune regulationHow to become an empowered advocate for your own healthWhere to start if you feel dismissed or overlooked in traditional healthcare 🌐 Resources & Links:Dr. Jill Carnahan – Official Website: https://www.jillcarnahan.comBook – Unexpected: Finding Resilience through Functional Medicine, Science, and Faith: Buy HereDocumentary – Dr. Jill: From Illness to Impact: Watch HereDr. Aaron Hartman – Richmond Functional Medicine: richmondfunctionalmedicine.comYouTube – Richmond Functional Medicine: Watch HereLinkedIn – Dr. Aaron Hartman: Connect Here 🎧 Closing Call to Action:👉 If you or someone you love is facing chronic illness or unexplained symptoms, this episode offers both hope and a new path forward. Subscribe to Made for Health, share this story of resilience, and explore Dr. Carnahan’s resources to begin your own empowered healing journey.

    41 min
  2. 50: Still Sick After COVID? – The 3 Most Promising Treatments for Long-Haul Recovery with Dr. Aaron Hartman

    5D AGO

    50: Still Sick After COVID? – The 3 Most Promising Treatments for Long-Haul Recovery with Dr. Aaron Hartman

    In this mini-episode of Made for Health, Dr. Aaron Hartman explores long COVID through the lens of functional medicine, offering insight into why some individuals experience lingering symptoms—and what can be done about it. Dr. Hartman identifies chronic inflammation and mast cell activation as major contributors to post-COVID dysfunction and outlines how gut health, trauma history, mold exposure, and nutrient status all intersect in long COVID recovery. He highlights three key interventions shown to help rebalance the body: low dose naltrexone, vitamin D optimization, and methylene blue for mitochondrial support. Whether you're personally navigating long COVID or supporting someone who is, this episode delivers hope through root-cause thinking, clinical insight, and targeted strategies. ✅ Show Highlights:The role of chronic inflammation and mast cell activation in long COVIDHow gut health and trauma influence recoveryWhy mold exposure may worsen or prolong symptomsKey nutrient strategies, including optimal vitamin D levels (60–80 ng/mL)Three promising interventions: low dose naltrexone, vitamin D, and methylene blueAdditional therapies and lifestyle adjustments to support healing 💡 In This Episode, You Will Learn:Why standard treatments often miss the root causes of long COVIDHow functional medicine uncovers hidden contributors like mold and hypermobilityThe mechanism behind low dose naltrexone and its immune-regulating effectsHow methylene blue supports energy production at the cellular levelPractical next steps if you're experiencing long-haul symptoms 🌐 Resources & Links:Dr. Aaron Hartman – Richmond Functional Medicine: richmondfunctionalmedicine.comYouTube – Richmond Functional Medicine: Watch HereLinkedIn – Dr. Aaron Hartman: Connect Here 🎧 Closing Call to Action:👉 If you or someone you love is still struggling with long COVID, don’t lose hope. Subscribe to Made for Health for evidence-based guidance, and share this episode with your healthcare provider or community to start the conversation around root-cause recovery.

    7 min
  3. 49: Your Gut Controls Your Hormones?! – Shocking Truths About Hormone Balance with Dr. Pamela W. Smith

    JUL 7

    49: Your Gut Controls Your Hormones?! – Shocking Truths About Hormone Balance with Dr. Pamela W. Smith

    In this episode of Made for Health, Dr. Aaron Hartman is joined by Dr. Pamela W. Smith, a trailblazer in functional medicine and hormone health, for a deeply insightful conversation on the foundational role hormones play in overall well-being. Dr. Smith unpacks the hormonal hierarchy—why addressing adrenal, thyroid, and sex hormones in the right order matters—and how chronic stress, unresolved trauma, and environmental toxins disrupt this delicate balance. She highlights the gut microbiome’s surprising role in hormone regulation, the necessity of personalized testing, and why detoxification is often a missing piece in healing protocols. Together, they explore how functional hormone therapy, strategic weight management, and even rediscovering personal purpose can help patients reclaim vibrant health from the inside out. ✅ Show Highlights:The hormonal hierarchy: adrenal, thyroid, and sex hormones explainedHow gut health impacts hormone balance—and vice versaThe overlooked role of trauma and stress in hormone dysfunctionWhy personalized lab testing is essential for accurate diagnosisDetox strategies for hormone-disrupting toxinsInsights into bioidentical hormone therapy and weight regulationThe connection between purpose, mindset, and long-term healing 🌐 Resources & Links:Dr. Pamela W. Smith – Official Website: https://www.centerforselfhealingarts.comBooks by Dr. Pamela W. Smith: Available on AmazonDr. Aaron Hartman – Richmond Functional Medicine: richmondfunctionalmedicine.comYouTube – Richmond Functional Medicine: Watch HereLinkedIn – Dr. Aaron Hartman: Connect Here 🎧 Closing Call to Action:👉 If you’re navigating hormone-related issues, gut imbalances, or just feel like something’s off—this episode is a must-listen. Subscribe to Made for Health, share this episode with someone who needs hope and clarity, and explore Dr. Smith’s books for deeper support on your healing journey.

    58 min
  4. 48: Still Tired After Drinking Water? – The Missing Piece of Hydration & Energy with Dr. Aaron Hartman

    JUL 4

    48: Still Tired After Drinking Water? – The Missing Piece of Hydration & Energy with Dr. Aaron Hartman

    In this episode of Made for Health, host Dr. Aaron Hartman answers a listener’s question by exploring how nutrition plays a critical role in our daily energy levels, cognitive clarity, and long-term health. Drawing from his clinical expertise, Dr. Hartman breaks down three of the biggest—but often overlooked—diet-related causes of fatigue: harmful fats, excess sugar and carbs, and chronic dehydration with low electrolytes. He offers practical guidance on how to make smarter food choices, boost hydration, and improve your body’s ability to generate energy—without relying on caffeine or quick fixes. If you’ve ever hit an afternoon energy slump or struggled with brain fog, this bite-sized episode is full of simple shifts that can make a real difference. ✅ Show Highlights:The top 3 nutrition-based causes of energy crashesHow seed oils and bad fats disrupt your metabolismThe sugar-insulin rollercoaster and its effect on brain functionWhy electrolytes are just as important as waterEasy fixes for boosting hydration, focus, and staminaHow to use food to fuel—not drain—your day 🎯 Some Questions We Explore:What types of fats are harming your mitochondria and slowing you down?How does blood sugar instability affect mental clarity and energy?Are you drinking enough water—but still feeling tired?How can you improve energy without reaching for caffeine? 💡 In This Episode, You Will Learn:How your diet may be silently sabotaging your energyThe connection between hydration, sodium, and mental performanceWhat Dr. Hartman recommends for sustainable focus and staminaFunctional strategies to nourish your brain and body every dayWhy nutritional balance is key to long-term vitality 🌐 Resources & Links:Dr. Aaron Hartman – Richmond Functional Medicine: richmondfunctionalmedicine.comYouTube – Richmond Functional Medicine: Watch HereLinkedIn – Dr. Aaron Hartman: Connect Here 🎧 Closing Call to Action:👉 If you’re ready to stop feeling drained and start fueling your day with intention, subscribe to Made for Health. Share this episode with a friend who needs an energy reset—and submit your own health questions for future episodes!

    7 min
  5. 47: Tired, Bloated & Still Told You're Fine? – The Truth About Thyroid Testing with Dr. Amie Hornaman

    JUN 30

    47: Tired, Bloated & Still Told You're Fine? – The Truth About Thyroid Testing with Dr. Amie Hornaman

    In this episode of Made for Health, host Erin is joined by Dr. Amie Hornaman, also known as The Thyroid Fixer, for a candid and empowering conversation about thyroid health, hormone balance, and personalized healing. Dr. Hornaman shares her powerful personal story of being a high-performing athlete whose life was derailed by a misdiagnosed thyroid condition—an experience that ultimately inspired her to become one of today’s leading voices in thyroid education. Together, she and Erin explore the real challenges of diagnosing and treating thyroid dysfunction, the crucial role of nutrition (especially protein), and why muscle maintenance matters deeply for women’s hormone health. They also dive into emerging therapies, why standard lab ranges aren’t always enough, and how to find practitioners who will listen, test thoroughly, and treat root causes—not just symptoms. Show Highlights: ✅ Dr. Hornaman’s journey from frustrated patient to expert practitioner ✅ Why so many thyroid conditions go undiagnosed or undertreated ✅ The role of nutrition, especially protein, in thyroid and hormone balance ✅ How muscle mass impacts metabolism, energy, and hormone function ✅ Why one-size-fits-all treatments don’t work for thyroid health ✅ The promise of new therapies and testing approaches ✅ How to find and work with providers who truly understand thyroid dysfunction Some Questions We Explore: ✅ Why is hypothyroidism often missed in women—even with lab testing? ✅ What’s the connection between protein, muscle, and thyroid function? ✅ How can you advocate for yourself if your labs say “normal” but you feel awful? ✅ What new tools and treatments are available today? In This Episode, You Will Learn: ✅ How to recognize and address the hidden signs of thyroid dysfunction ✅ What a personalized approach to thyroid and hormone health really looks like ✅ How to use nutrition, strength, and mindset to reclaim your energy ✅ Where to go for trusted resources and support Resources & Links: 🌐 Dr. Amie Hornaman – The Thyroid Fixer: dramiehornaman.com 🎙️ The Thyroid Fixer Podcast: Listen Here 📘 Free Thyroid Fixer Guide: Download Here 🌐 Dr. Aaron Hartman – Richmond Functional Medicine: richmondfunctionalmedicine.com 📺 YouTube – Richmond Functional Medicine: Watch Here 🎧 Closing Call to Action: 👉 If you’ve ever been told your labs are “normal” but you don’t feel normal, this episode is for you. Subscribe to Made for Health, share with someone struggling with hormone issues, and check out Dr. Amie’s free resources to get started on your thyroid healing journey.

    48 min
  6. 46: Your Labs Are ‘Normal’—But Are You Healthy? – The Truth About Optimal Ranges with Dr. Aaron Hartman

    JUN 27

    46: Your Labs Are ‘Normal’—But Are You Healthy? – The Truth About Optimal Ranges with Dr. Aaron Hartman

    In this mini-episode of Made for Health, Dr. Aaron Hartman explains the crucial difference between “normal” and “optimal” lab values—a distinction that can make or break your long-term health strategy. While conventional lab ranges may label your results as “normal,” they often overlook early signs of dysfunction. Dr. Hartman dives into key health markers including glucose, liver enzymes, white blood cells, cholesterol, and thyroid function, showing how striving for optimal values can offer earlier, more effective paths to prevention and wellness. Listeners are encouraged to take a proactive approach to lab interpretation, engage with their healthcare providers, and even consider AI-supported tools to better understand their numbers—always in collaboration with medical guidance. Show Highlights: ✅ Why “normal” isn’t always healthy ✅ Optimal lab ranges for glucose, thyroid, WBCs, and more ✅ How standard lab reference ranges are created—and why they may mislead ✅ Early signs of imbalance to catch before symptoms appear ✅ How to talk to your doctor about deeper lab analysis ✅ Using AI tools as a guide—not a diagnosis In This Episode, You Will Learn: ✅ The difference between population averages and personalized optimal health ✅ The key markers Dr. Hartman reviews closely in functional medicine ✅ What to do when your labs are “normal,” but you still feel off ✅ The power of curiosity, data, and advocacy in modern health Resources & Links: 🌐 Dr. Aaron Hartman – Richmond Functional Medicine: richmondfunctionalmedicine.com 🌐 LinkedIn – Dr. Aaron Hartman: Connect Here 📺 YouTube – Richmond Functional Medicine: Watch Here 🎧 Closing Call to Action: 👉 Want more clarity on your labs? Subscribe to Made for Health, send your lab-related questions for future episodes, and empower yourself with real data-driven wellness.

    8 min
  7. 45: Can Ancient Medicine Heal Modern Illness? – Transformative Insights from TCM with Maegan Hodge

    JUN 23

    45: Can Ancient Medicine Heal Modern Illness? – Transformative Insights from TCM with Maegan Hodge

    In this episode of Made for Health, Dr. Aaron Hartman is joined by Maegan Hodge, licensed acupuncturist and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practitioner, for a rich exploration of how ancient healing practices can inform and elevate modern healthcare. Maegan shares her personal journey into the world of TCM and explains how its foundational principles—such as body constitution types, warming vs. cooling foods, and the central role of gut health—offer profound tools for understanding and treating chronic conditions, nervous system dysregulation, and more. Together, they discuss how acupuncture and Chinese herbal wisdom can complement functional medicine, bridging the gap between traditional healing and modern science. This episode invites listeners to look beyond symptom treatment and embrace a more holistic, individualized approach to wellness. Show Highlights: ✅ Maegan’s journey into TCM and how it transformed her health perspective ✅ The Five Element and body constitution frameworks in Chinese medicine ✅ Why gut health is foundational in both Eastern and Western paradigms ✅ The significance of warming vs. cooling foods in regulating energy and digestion ✅ Acupuncture's role in regulating the nervous system and promoting resilience ✅ How ancient diagnostic tools remain relevant in modern healthcare ✅ Real-life insights on blending TCM with functional and integrative medicine Some Questions We Explore: ✅ How does traditional Chinese medicine define health and imbalance? ✅ What can warming and cooling foods teach us about personalized nutrition? ✅ How can acupuncture support mental and emotional well-being? ✅ Why is gut health considered the center of vitality in TCM? In This Episode, You Will Learn: ✅ How to understand your body through the lens of TCM constitutions ✅ What ancient Eastern practices can offer to today’s chronic health challenges ✅ How acupuncture works with the nervous system and promotes healing ✅ Practical ways to begin integrating TCM into your wellness routine Resources & Links:: 🌐 LinkedIn – Maegan Hodge:Connect Here 🌐 Dr. Aaron Hartman – Richmond Functional Medicine:richmondfunctionalmedicine.com 🌐 LinkedIn – Aaron Hartman, MD:Connect Here 📺 YouTube – Richmond Functional Medicine:Watch Here

    52 min
  8. 44: Feeling Off but Labs Are 'Normal'? – The Best Tests Your Doctor Isn’t Running with Dr. Aaron Hartman

    JUN 20

    44: Feeling Off but Labs Are 'Normal'? – The Best Tests Your Doctor Isn’t Running with Dr. Aaron Hartman

    In this episode of Made for Health, Dr. Aaron Hartman shines a light on several essential—but often overlooked—lab tests that can provide powerful insights into your health. From omega-3 fatty acid levels to hs-CRP (high sensitivity C-reactive protein) and vitamin D, these tests are key to understanding inflammation, heart health, and immune resilience—yet they’re rarely part of standard checkups. Dr. Hartman explains what each of these markers reveals, how deficiencies or imbalances affect long-term health, and why they deserve more attention in preventive care. He also highlights additional tests like vitamin B-12, folic acid, and homocysteine, which can help detect nutritional gaps and cardiovascular risk factors that often go unnoticed. This episode empowers listeners to take a proactive role in their wellness journey by encouraging meaningful conversations with their healthcare providers and staying curious about their own biology. Show Highlights: ✅ What omega-3 levels reveal about inflammation and brain health ✅ The importance of hs-CRP in detecting silent inflammation and cardiovascular risk ✅ Why vitamin D is essential for immune function and chronic disease prevention ✅ The link between B-12, folic acid, homocysteine, and heart/mood health ✅ How these tests can uncover root causes of fatigue, mood issues, and brain fog ✅ Questions to ask your doctor to advocate for smarter testing ✅ A call for listener-submitted questions and future episode ideas Some Questions We Explore: ✅ Why aren’t these tests part of routine checkups? ✅ What do optimal—not just “normal”—levels look like? ✅ How can nutritional testing help personalize your wellness plan? ✅ What should you do if your doctor won’t order these labs? In This Episode, You Will Learn: ✅ How to identify and correct hidden nutrient deficiencies ✅ Which markers provide a deeper look at inflammation and cardiovascular risk ✅ What steps you can take today to become your own health advocate ✅ How to prepare for your next doctor visit with empowered questions Resources & Links: 🌐 Dr. Aaron Hartman – Richmond Functional Medicine: richmondfunctionalmedicine.com 🌐 LinkedIn – Aaron Hartman, MD: Connect Here 📺 YouTube – Richmond Functional Medicine: Watch Here 🎧 Closing Call to Action: 👉 Don’t wait for symptoms to take action—start advocating for your health today. Subscribe to Made for Health, share this episode with someone who needs it, and send in your questions or test-related topics for an upcoming Q&A!

    7 min
See All (51)

5
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

You were made for health—vibrant, thriving, and full of possibility. But navigating today’s broken healthcare system, endless misinformation, and confusion can feel overwhelming. On Made for Health, Dr. Aaron Hartman cuts through the noise to deliver science-backed solutions that restore your health and reignite your hope. Join us each week for expert insights, practical tips, and inspiring conversations that empower you to harness your body’s incredible power to heal. Whether you're seeking clarity, direction, or just a trusted voice, this podcast is your roadmap to the vibrant life you were made for.

Information

  • Creator
    Aaron Hartman, MD
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    51
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 Aaron Hartman, MD
  • Show Website
    Made for Health

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