Wellness Connection MD

James McMinn, MD
  • 4.7 (65)
  • ALTERNATIVE HEALTH
Wellness Connection MD

Welcome to the Wellness Connection MD podcast, where Dr. McMinn and Coach Lindsey become your partners on a quest for optimal wellness.   Simply stated, our goal is to bring to you up-to-date, honest, vetted, unbiased, evidence-based information about health and wellness, along with practical solutions, in order to empower you to overcome your healthcare challenges, and to optimize your health in mind, body, and spirit.  As our population ages, and we are faced with an alarming epidemic of chronic diseases.  Clearly, the current drug-based sick-care model of healthcare is simply not working.  The cost of healthcare is skyrocketing for patients, and for our society at large, and legions of patients with chronic diseases are falling through the cracks of modern medicine.  These people are often  desperate to be heard, to be taken seriously, and to have their concerns adequately addressed.    On the Wellness Connection MD podcast we will focus more on a preventive, lifestyle-based, functional, and integrative approach to optimal wellness.    We challenge the medical community to  "think different," while remaining evidence-based, while opening our minds to other viable therapies beyond drugs and surgery.  We also advocate that this shift in thinking be accompanied by a renaissance  of "loving kindness" in healthcare.  Providers and patients would all benefit.    We are hopeful for the future of health care.  Patients are demanding a new approach, and big medicine is beginning to listen.  Fifteen years ago when we embarked on this journey integrative and functional medicine were hardly on the radar screen.  However we now  see that many of our most esteemed healthcare institutions have dedicated integrative or functional programs, such as Harvard, Duke, Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, Vanderbilt,  UCSF and many others.   Integrative and functional medicine are gaining credibility across the nation and around the world.  We will all be better off for the change. We hope that you will join us on this journey to optimal wellness on Wellness Connection MD.   Take care and be well.

  1. JUN 27

    Train Your Brain: The Science Behind BrainHQ

    In this illuminating episode of Wellness Connection MD, Dr. McMinn and Coach Lindsay welcome renowned neuroscientist Dr. Henry Mahncke, CEO of Posit Science and creator of BrainHQ. Together, they explore the science of neuroplasticity—how the brain can adapt, heal, and grow at any age—and discuss how BrainHQ leverages this power to improve cognition, memory, processing speed, and even reduce dementia risk. Dr. Mahncke shares compelling insights from hundreds of peer-reviewed studies and groundbreaking clinical trials, including new research on brain atrophy in long COVID, and structural brain changes observed through fMRI. You'll also hear real-world stories of transformation—from stroke recovery to safer driving—illustrating the tangible benefits of personalized brain training. Whether you're aging proactively, recovering from illness, or simply seeking sharper mental focus, this episode delivers hopeful, evidence-based tools to support your cognitive wellness. ✨ Key Topics Covered: How neuroplasticity rewires the brain across the lifespanThe evidence behind BrainHQ’s cognitive training exercisesLong COVID, depression, PTSD & brain fog: how BrainHQ helpsFunctional medicine, brain speed, and practical applicationsReal-life success stories and future visions for brain health"Your brain is built to grow. It just needs the right kind of challenge." Support the show Please CLICK ON THIS LINK to support the show. -Check out our website at https://mcminnmd.com for other IMPORTANT LINKS, including social media links. You can find these at the bottom of the main page under the heading "Helpful Links." -Click on the following link for our FULLSCRIPT dispensary for a 10% discount on physician-grade supplements: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/jmcminn/signup FullScript Dispensary is an affiliate from which I receive a commission. Check out Dr. McMinn's Wellness MD Blog at https://mcminnmd.com/wellness-md-blog-1 Go to https://mcminnmd.com/reviews to see How to rate and review this podcast on an iPhone You can contact Dr. McMinn at DoctorMcMinn@yahoo.com to leave comments or to make suggestions for future shows. Follow Dr. McMinn at: https://twitter.com/mcminnmd https://www.linkedin.com/in/mcminnmd/ https://www.instagram.com/mcminnmd https://www.facebook.com/mcminnmd

    55 min

  2. MAY 16

    Parkinson's Disease: A Functional and Integrative Approach

    In this follow-up to their previous Parkinson’s Disease (PD) episode, Dr. McMinn and Coach Lindsay explore how functional and integrative medicine can complement traditional treatments for PD. They emphasize that their goal is not to replace conventional medicine, but to “fill in the gaps” with evidence-based holistic therapies that address the root causes and improve patient quality of life. They define functional medicine as a root-cause approach that asks "why" a disease occurs, and integrative medicine as the use of non-conventional tools—like acupuncture or diet—to enhance care beyond drugs and surgery. For PD, traditional medicine plays a vital role, especially in treating motor symptoms (e.g., tremor, rigidity, bradykinesia). However, functional and integrative approaches can address underlying contributors and may be especially useful for non-motor symptoms. *Root Causes & Risk Factors of PD Discussed: -Genetics & Epigenetics: Genetics increases risk, but lifestyle and environmental factors play a significant role in gene expression, via epigenetics. -Toxins: Pesticides, solvents like TCE, heavy metals, mold, air pollution, and microplastics have all been linked to increased PD risk. -Head trauma, especially from sports like football and soccer, increases PD risk. -Gut-brain axis: Emerging evidence shows PD often starts in the gut, years before classic Parkinson's motor symptoms appear. *Functional Prevention & Lifestyle Strategies: -Diet: Mediterranean and MIND diets lower PD risk and delay symptom onset. -Coffee: Regular consumption may lower PD risk by ~40%. -Exercise: Reduces risk and helps with motor/non-motor symptoms. Boxing (e.g., Rock Steady Boxing), tai chi, yoga, walking, and especially dance (ParkinDance) improve motor control, cognition, and mood. -Connection with Nature lowers PD risk. -Avoid toxins and head injuries. *Integrative Treatments for Non-Motor Symptoms: -Constipation: Addressed via diet, hydration, and handouts available at www.McMinnMD.com. -Fatigue: Covered in a previous 2018 fatigue-focused episode. -Sarcopenia: Counteracted with resistance training, diet, TRT, and vitamin D. -Urinary issues: Pelvic floor therapy and fluid strategies help. -Sleep disorders: Melatonin, sleep hygiene, CBT-I, light therapy, acupuncture. -Mood issues (anxiety, depression): Yoga, tai chi, CBT, group support, soci Support the show Please CLICK ON THIS LINK to support the show. -Check out our website at https://mcminnmd.com for other IMPORTANT LINKS, including social media links. You can find these at the bottom of the main page under the heading "Helpful Links." -Click on the following link for our FULLSCRIPT dispensary for a 10% discount on physician-grade supplements: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/jmcminn/signup FullScript Dispensary is an affiliate from which I receive a commission. Check out Dr. McMinn's Wellness MD Blog at https://mcminnmd.com/wellness-md-blog-1 Go to https://mcminnmd.com/reviews to see How to rate and review this podcast on an iPhone You can contact Dr. McMinn at DoctorMcMinn@yahoo.com to leave comments or to make suggestions for future shows. Follow Dr. McMinn at: https://twitter.com/mcminnmd https://www.linkedin.com/in/mcminnmd/ https://www.instagram.com/mcminnmd https://www.facebook.com/mcminnmd

    46 min

  3. APR 13

    Living Well with Parkinson's: What Patients and Caregivers Need to Know in 2025

    This episode of Wellness Connection MD celebrates Parkinson’s Disease Awareness Month. Dr. McMinn welcomes two extraordinary guests to shine a compassionate and informed light on Parkinson’s disease. Nurse Practitioner Laura Lieb, a Parkinson’s specialist at UAB and community coordinator for the American Parkinson's Disease Association, joins the conversation alongside caregiver, support group leader, and former Care Navigator for the Parkinson's Association of Alabama, Cindy McMinn, NP. Together, they explore the evolving science of Parkinson's and discuss early warning signs, symptoms, gut-brain connections, root causes, cutting-edge therapies, and the lived experience of caregiving. From practical lifestyle tips to insights on neuroinflammation and support networks, this episode is a must-listen for anyone impacted by Parkinson’s Disease. Whether you're a patient, provider, or care partner, you’ll find cutting-edge information, clarity, resources, and hope. Want more? Visit McMinnMD.com for links, bios, and a complete resource guide. Support the show Please CLICK ON THIS LINK to support the show. -Check out our website at https://mcminnmd.com for other IMPORTANT LINKS, including social media links. You can find these at the bottom of the main page under the heading "Helpful Links." -Click on the following link for our FULLSCRIPT dispensary for a 10% discount on physician-grade supplements: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/jmcminn/signup FullScript Dispensary is an affiliate from which I receive a commission. Check out Dr. McMinn's Wellness MD Blog at https://mcminnmd.com/wellness-md-blog-1 Go to https://mcminnmd.com/reviews to see How to rate and review this podcast on an iPhone You can contact Dr. McMinn at DoctorMcMinn@yahoo.com to leave comments or to make suggestions for future shows. Follow Dr. McMinn at: https://twitter.com/mcminnmd https://www.linkedin.com/in/mcminnmd/ https://www.instagram.com/mcminnmd https://www.facebook.com/mcminnmd

    2h 11m

  4. APR 3

    Dysautonomia Recovery Part 2: A Proven Path to Wellness

    What if the root cause of your dizziness, brain fog, fatigue, anxiety, rapid heart rate, blood pressure swings, chest pain, gut issues, and post-Covid funk wasn’t “just anxiety”—but a hidden autonomic nervous system dysfunction? In this compelling episode of The Wellness Connection MD, Dr. McMinn and Coach Lindsay welcome back nutritionist Tyler Mathews for an eye-opening conversation about dysautonomia—a commonly overlooked, often misunderstood condition that may be affecting millions more than we realize. Tyler shares his incredible recovery journey from debilitating dysautonomia to vibrant health using a blend of functional medicine strategies, which include targeted nutrition (including a radical dietary shift to carnivore), thiamine, red light therapy, vagus nerve stimulation, and more. This isn’t just theory—it’s lived experience backed by solid science. Whether you’re a patient, provider, or caregiver, this episode is loaded with practical takeaways and is a must-listen for anyone facing chronic fatigue, long COVID, or other chronic unexplained health symptoms. 👉 Ready to take back your health? Visit DysautonomiaRecovery.com to access Tyler’s course and recovery tools, and even to access one-on-one coaching. Also, check out McMinnMD.com for free resources, documents, and more. Don’t just survive—learn how to thrive.   Support the show Please CLICK ON THIS LINK to support the show. -Check out our website at https://mcminnmd.com for other IMPORTANT LINKS, including social media links. You can find these at the bottom of the main page under the heading "Helpful Links." -Click on the following link for our FULLSCRIPT dispensary for a 10% discount on physician-grade supplements: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/jmcminn/signup FullScript Dispensary is an affiliate from which I receive a commission. Check out Dr. McMinn's Wellness MD Blog at https://mcminnmd.com/wellness-md-blog-1 Go to https://mcminnmd.com/reviews to see How to rate and review this podcast on an iPhone You can contact Dr. McMinn at DoctorMcMinn@yahoo.com to leave comments or to make suggestions for future shows. Follow Dr. McMinn at: https://twitter.com/mcminnmd https://www.linkedin.com/in/mcminnmd/ https://www.instagram.com/mcminnmd https://www.facebook.com/mcminnmd

    1h 29m

  5. FEB 23

    Yeast Overgrowth: The Evidence and the Outcomes

    In this edition of the Wellness Connection MD podcast Dr. McMinn and Coach Lindsay take you on a thought-provoking journey through the critical role of yeast overgrowth, especially in the context of the gut microbiome, echoing the wisdom of Hippocrates that "all diseases begin in the gut."  We’ll take a deep dive into this controversial and important topic as a possible hidden culprit behind fatigue, fibromyalgia, brain fog, mood swings, irritability, headaches, joint pain, chronic sinusitis, autoimmune disease, food allergies, gas, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, IBS, GERD, and even stubborn weight gain. Join us as we reveal scientific evidence and compelling success stories that challenge conventional wisdom about yeast overgrowth and provide hope for those who've hit dead ends with traditional treatments. Discover the various mechanisms by which yeast in the gut microbiome wreaks havoc not only in our gut, but throughout our entire body. Discover why understanding your gut microbiome might be the game changer in your wellness journey. Like most traditionally trained doctors, Dr. McMinn started his journey as a non-believer when it comes to yeast overgrowth. However, after witnessing the profound effects that his yeast protocol had on his patients, he could no longer deny the importance of treating yeast overgrowth for selected patients. He has now become a passionate advocate for considering yeast overgrowth in the context of the broader context of creating a balanced and healthy gut microbiome. He shares his McMinn Yeast Protocol with you and encourages providers to consider treating yeast overgrowth for patients who fit the clinical picture, especially for those desperate patients for whom standard traditional therapies have not worked.  Support the show Please CLICK ON THIS LINK to support the show. -Check out our website at https://mcminnmd.com for other IMPORTANT LINKS, including social media links. You can find these at the bottom of the main page under the heading "Helpful Links." -Click on the following link for our FULLSCRIPT dispensary for a 10% discount on physician-grade supplements: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/jmcminn/signup FullScript Dispensary is an affiliate from which I receive a commission. Check out Dr. McMinn's Wellness MD Blog at https://mcminnmd.com/wellness-md-blog-1 Go to https://mcminnmd.com/reviews to see How to rate and review this podcast on an iPhone You can contact Dr. McMinn at DoctorMcMinn@yahoo.com to leave comments or to make suggestions for future shows. Follow Dr. McMinn at: https://twitter.com/mcminnmd https://www.linkedin.com/in/mcminnmd/ https://www.instagram.com/mcminnmd https://www.facebook.com/mcminnmd

    48 min

  6. JAN 31

    A Functional Approach to Cardiovascular Wellness

    In this episode of Wellness Connection MD, Dr. McMinn and Coach Lindsay discuss a functional (root cause) approach to cardiovascular disease (CVD), the leading cause of death worldwide for both men and women. Your chances of dying from this disease are greater than for any other cause. You’ll find the information that you need in this podcast to improve your odds of suffering with, and dying from heart disease.  This episode starts by defining exactly what is meant by the term “cardiovascular disease,” and discussing the various disorders affecting the heart and blood vessels, including coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, stroke, heart failure, arrhythmias, and peripheral arterial disease, among others. Then Dr. McMinn and Lindsay break down the various cardiovascular risk factors, both modifiable and non-modifiable, and they present evidence-based practical solutions, both from the functional and integrative perspective, as well as conventional approaches for prevention and treatment, with an emphasis on personalized strategies.  The key takeaway is that understanding and addressing modifiable risk factors is crucial for both prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease.  The episode also refers to many additional resources available at McMinnMD.com, including “The Daggers of Cardiovascular Disease,” a summary of metabolic syndrome, integrative therapies for high blood pressure, sleep therapy options, Dr. McMinn’s stress toolbox and strass plan, a document about natural ways to balance lipids, information about smoking cessation, and Dr. McMinn’s cardiovascular wellness plans. If you enjoy the podcast please leave a review on iTunes and share it with a friend. Feel free to contact Dr. McMinn at doctormcminn@yahoo.com for feedback or topic suggestions. In closing: Your health is your greatest gift. Cherish your gift of heart health, and put together a personalized plan to live a long and healthy life by warding off cardiovascular disease.   Support the show Please CLICK ON THIS LINK to support the show. -Check out our website at https://mcminnmd.com for other IMPORTANT LINKS, including social media links. You can find these at the bottom of the main page under the heading "Helpful Links." -Click on the following link for our FULLSCRIPT dispensary for a 10% discount on physician-grade supplements: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/jmcminn/signup FullScript Dispensary is an affiliate from which I receive a commission. Check out Dr. McMinn's Wellness MD Blog at https://mcminnmd.com/wellness-md-blog-1 Go to https://mcminnmd.com/reviews to see How to rate and review this podcast on an iPhone You can contact Dr. McMinn at DoctorMcMinn@yahoo.com to leave comments or to make suggestions for future shows. Follow Dr. McMinn at: https://twitter.com/mcminnmd https://www.linkedin.com/in/mcminnmd/ https://www.instagram.com/mcminnmd https://www.facebook.com/mcminnmd

    1h 4m

  7. 12/16/2024

    Beyond Fertility: The Power of Understanding Your Cycle

    In this episode, Dr. McMinn and Coach Lindsay are visited by Elizabeth Ellison , a Postpartum Nurse & Fertility Care Practitioner. Together we explore women’s reproductive health with a focus on understanding the menstrual cycle as a vital indicator of overall health.  The episode emphasizes the Creighton Model System.  Elizabeth explains how this model helps women identify patterns in their cycles, enabling them to better understand their bodies, recognize irregularities, and address root causes of health issues such as hormonal imbalances, cycle irregularities, and fertility issues.  Key Points Discussed: The Menstrual Cycle as a Health Indicator: Tracking a woman’s cycle provides insights into hormonal health, fertility, and other potential health concerns. Empowerment through Body Literacy: Women can learn to observe and interpret their cycles, enabling proactive healthcare, and avoiding reliance on symptom-masking pharmaceutical treatments.NaproTechnology (Napro): This medical approach works alongside the Creighton Model, offering restorative treatments for reproductive issues. Effectiveness for Family Planning: The Creighton Model is 99.5% effective for avoiding pregnancy with perfect use, and 96.8% with typical use. For achieving pregnancy, 98% of couples with normal fertility succeed within six cycles.Holistic and Empowered Personalized Care: The process empowers women to identify irregularities and work with providers to address root-cause issues.The Downside of Hormonal Contraceptives:  Hormonal contraceptives, like the birth control pill, have been around for many years, and many women seem to do fine with it. However, while this method is quite effective, hormonal contraceptives may have many unwanted side effects. It is important to educate women as to their options,  including more holistic methods, such as the Creighton Model in order to enable them to make wise and educated choices as to what may work best for them. In summary, this podcast is about educating and empowering women to become active participants and to take control of their reproductive health.   We hope that you enjoy the podcast. Elizabeth Ellison Contact Information elizabeth.flourishfertility@gmail.com www.flourishfertilitycare.com. Instagram: @flourishfertilitycare Support the show Please CLICK ON THIS LINK to support the show. -Check out our website at https://mcminnmd.com for other IMPORTANT LINKS, including social media links. You can find these at the bottom of the main page under the heading "Helpful Links." -Click on the following link for our FULLSCRIPT dispensary for a 10% discount on physician-grade supplements: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/jmcminn/signup FullScript Dispensary is an affiliate from which I receive a commission. Check out Dr. McMinn's Wellness MD Blog at https://mcminnmd.com/wellness-md-blog-1 Go to https://mcminnmd.com/reviews to see How to rate and review this podcast on an iPhone You can contact Dr. McMinn at DoctorMcMinn@yahoo.com to leave comments or to make suggestions for future shows. Follow Dr. McMinn at: https://twitter.com/mcminnmd https://www.linkedin.com/in/mcminnmd/ https://www.instagram.com/mcminnmd https://www.facebook.com/mcminnmd

    1h 7m

  8. 11/02/2024

    Preconception Care

    This episode of the Wellness Connection MD podcast focuses on the critical topic of pre-conception care, emphasizing the importance of both parents optimizing their health in the months leading up to pregnancy. The hosts explain that the health of the egg and sperm, as well as the environment in which they develop, significantly impacts fertility, pregnancy outcomes. the long-term health of the child, and even the health of future generations.  Key points discussed include: Pre-conception health: The hosts stress that lifestyle choices made before conception can reduce risks like miscarriages, birth defects, childhood, diseases, and can even affect adult health. Diet and Nutrition: A balanced diet, such as a Mediterranean diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and omega-3 fatty acids is essential for both egg and sperm health. Supplements like folic acid, CoQ10, and vitamin D are also recommended for improving fertility.Toxins and Lifestyle Factors: The podcast covers how alcohol, smoking, caffeine, and environmental toxins can negatively affect reproductive health. Reducing exposure to these substances is crucial for optimizing fertility. Toxins discussed include heavy metals, mycotoxins from mold, and organic toxins, including endocrine-disrupting chemicals.Stress Management: Stress can interfere with reproductive health by disrupting hormonal balance. The hosts recommend stress management techniques to improve fertility outcomes.Other factors are also discussed, such as restorative sleep, exercise, medications, hydration, infections, thyroid optimization, acupuncture, and epigenetics. Listeners are encouraged to share this information with anyone considering starting a family and to take practical steps toward improving their pre-conception health. Support the show Please CLICK ON THIS LINK to support the show. -Check out our website at https://mcminnmd.com for other IMPORTANT LINKS, including social media links. You can find these at the bottom of the main page under the heading "Helpful Links." -Click on the following link for our FULLSCRIPT dispensary for a 10% discount on physician-grade supplements: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/jmcminn/signup FullScript Dispensary is an affiliate from which I receive a commission. Check out Dr. McMinn's Wellness MD Blog at https://mcminnmd.com/wellness-md-blog-1 Go to https://mcminnmd.com/reviews to see How to rate and review this podcast on an iPhone You can contact Dr. McMinn at DoctorMcMinn@yahoo.com to leave comments or to make suggestions for future shows. Follow Dr. McMinn at: https://twitter.com/mcminnmd https://www.linkedin.com/in/mcminnmd/ https://www.instagram.com/mcminnmd https://www.facebook.com/mcminnmd

    53 min
See All (58)

4.7
out of 5
65 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Wellness Connection MD podcast, where Dr. McMinn and Coach Lindsey become your partners on a quest for optimal wellness.   Simply stated, our goal is to bring to you up-to-date, honest, vetted, unbiased, evidence-based information about health and wellness, along with practical solutions, in order to empower you to overcome your healthcare challenges, and to optimize your health in mind, body, and spirit.  As our population ages, and we are faced with an alarming epidemic of chronic diseases.  Clearly, the current drug-based sick-care model of healthcare is simply not working.  The cost of healthcare is skyrocketing for patients, and for our society at large, and legions of patients with chronic diseases are falling through the cracks of modern medicine.  These people are often  desperate to be heard, to be taken seriously, and to have their concerns adequately addressed.    On the Wellness Connection MD podcast we will focus more on a preventive, lifestyle-based, functional, and integrative approach to optimal wellness.    We challenge the medical community to  "think different," while remaining evidence-based, while opening our minds to other viable therapies beyond drugs and surgery.  We also advocate that this shift in thinking be accompanied by a renaissance  of "loving kindness" in healthcare.  Providers and patients would all benefit.    We are hopeful for the future of health care.  Patients are demanding a new approach, and big medicine is beginning to listen.  Fifteen years ago when we embarked on this journey integrative and functional medicine were hardly on the radar screen.  However we now  see that many of our most esteemed healthcare institutions have dedicated integrative or functional programs, such as Harvard, Duke, Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, Vanderbilt,  UCSF and many others.   Integrative and functional medicine are gaining credibility across the nation and around the world.  We will all be better off for the change. We hope that you will join us on this journey to optimal wellness on Wellness Connection MD.   Take care and be well.

Information

  • Creator
    James McMinn, MD
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2025
  • Episodes
    58
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Functional Medicine Podcast
  • Show Website
    Wellness Connection MD

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