Wellness Connection MD

James McMinn, 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. 3 DAYS AGO

    The Curious Case of The Mysterious Raisinoma

    What happens when a seasoned physician examines a frightening, melanoma‑like lesion on his own father’s foot… only to discover something so unexpected it becomes a brand‑new “diagnosis” in medical history? This unforgettable holiday story swings from fear to laughter in the blink of an eye—and the lesson it reveals might just change how you think about your life and your health. In this special year‑end episode of Wellness Connection MD, Dr. McMinn shares a hilarious and true Christmas tale from the family farm. What begins as a deeply concerning medical mystery quickly unravels into one of the most surprising—and comical—diagnoses of his career: McMinn Raisinoma Syndrome. But this episode isn’t just about the laugh (though you’ll definitely get one). Dr. McMinn uses the experience to explore how easily our minds leap to worst‑case scenarios, both in medicine and in everyday life. He reflects on why things aren’t always what they seem, how curiosity can prevent unnecessary fear, and why functional and integrative medicine invite us to look beneath the surface for root causes rather than settling for symptom‑pill thinking. You’ll hear: A suspenseful and hilarious holiday medical mysteryHow a raisin, a barefoot walk, and a few dog hairs created the perfect diagnostic illusionWhy paradigm shifts matter in life and in medicine—and how they can transform your healthThe four major root causes of disease and why they matterA heartfelt invitation to bring curiosity, intention, and kindness into your health journey this coming yearThis episode will leave you smiling, thinking, and maybe even re‑examining the “raisins” in your own life. Stay curious. Stay open.-minded, and remember—sometimes the scariest problems turn out to be nothing more than a sticky raisin. 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

    12 min
  2. 13/12/2025

    Gratitude as Medicine: What the Science Really Shows

    What if one simple daily practice could improve your mental clarity, emotional resilience, and even your physical health—without costing a dime or carrying any risk? Gratitude may be one of the most overlooked—and most powerful—tools for improving our overall health. In this timely holiday episode of Wellness Connection MD, Dr. Jim McMinn and Coach Lindsay Mathews take a deep, evidence-based look at gratitude as a practical, accessible wellness practice. With no cost, no equipment, and no downside, gratitude is something anyone can begin today—yet research shows it can meaningfully improve mood, resilience, relationships, sleep, stress physiology, long-term health outcomes, and so much more.  Together, they explore: What gratitude really is (and what it’s not)The science behind gratitude and brain functionResearch linking gratitude to lower anxiety, depression, inflammation, blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and cardiovascular riskHow gratitude can help people cope more effectively with chronic illness, stress, and loss—even when it can’t “cure” diseaseThe powerful overlap between gratitude, spirituality, meaning, and resiliencePractical ways to build a gratitude practice that actually sticksDr. McMinn also shares a personal reflection on how an intentional gratitude practice helped him cope with his own health challenges. Dr. McMinn and Coach Lindsay are not preaching a belief system, but instead, they are sharing solid science and lived experience. You’ll walk away with clear definitions, real research, and practical tools including gratitude journaling, meditation, prayer, acts of loving kindness, gratitude letters, mindful walks, and guided resources—plus tips on how even a few minutes a day can begin to shift perspective and well-being. This episode is especially meaningful during the holiday season, a time when stress, loneliness, grief, and depression often increase beneath the surface of “holiday cheer.” Whether you’re thriving or struggling, healthy or facing illness, gratitude can become a powerful addition to your personal wellness toolbox. 👉 Additional gratitude resources, apps, and guided practices are available at McMinnMD.com (Documents → Gratitude Resources). Wellness Connection MD remains a commercial-free, evidence-based conversation designed to empower you to become a better captain of your own 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

    35 min
  3. 14/11/2025

    Insulin Resistance: The Silent Epidemic

    Dr. McMinn and  Coach Lindsay welcome nutrition expert Shannon Davis to the show to explore insulin resistance—a condition affecting millions of Americans, often without them even knowing that they have it. Learn what insulin resistance really means, how it connects to metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes, and why it matters for your health. Key Topics Covered Understanding Insulin Resistance What insulin resistance means in plain languageThe difference between insulin resistance and insulin sensitivityHow common is insulin resistance? (Prevalence in the general population)Why it often goes undiagnosedThe Connection to Metabolism Breaking down what "metabolism" actually meansHow insulin resistance relates to your body's metabolic processesThe relationship between insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, and type 2 diabetesCommon Symptoms & Warning Signs Fatigue and low energyStubborn weight gain, especially around the midsectionExcessive hunger and sugar cravingsOther symptoms that might surprise youThe Importance of Early Detection and Prevention Why This Matters Insulin resistance is a "silent epidemic" because many people have it without realizing it. Understanding the condition is the first step toward better health outcomes. If left unattended it can severely affect morbidity, mortality, and quality of life.  About Our Guest Shannon Davis, RD is a registered dietitian specializing in metabolic health and insulin resistance. She works with clients struggling with weight management, blood sugar issues, and related metabolic concerns. 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
  4. 11/10/2025

    Depression: A Functional Root Cause Approach

    Your Depression Might Not Be What Your Doctor Thinks It Is. What If Your Antidepressants Aren't Working Because Nobody's Looking at the Real Problem? You've tried the medications, and you've done the talk therapy, but nothing seems to be working. Or perhaps—you're stuck on drugs with side effects you hate, wondering if you'll ever feel normal again. Most doctors follow a predictable script: you describe depression → they immediately get out the Rx pad and write for Prozac, or one of its many cousins. But what if your depression isn't a chemical  or neurotransmiter mbalance at all? What if it's really due to a correctable cause that's been overlooked the entire time? In this episode of Wellness Connection MD, Dr. McMinn and Coach Lindsay Mathews reveal a completely different approach to depression—one that asks "Why do you have depression?” instead of "What drug should I put you on?” They walk through what may be the most complete list of root causes of depression that has ever been presented- the causes that most doctors never think about or look for. As usual on the Wellness Connection MD podcast- everything is supported by the evidence. Dr. McMinn and Coach Lindsay have done the homework for you.  Key Root Causes Explored Nutritional & Biochemical Factors: Vitamin D deficiency, B vitamin deficiencies (especially B12), omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, zinc, iron, selenium, and amino acids all directly impact mood regulation. Hormonal Imbalances: Thyroid dysfunction, cortisol dysregulation, low pregnenolone, DHEA, estrogen (particularly during menopause and perimenopause), progesterone fluctuations, and low testosterone in both men and women can all trigger or worsen depression. Inflammation & Food Sensitivities: Neuroinflammation disrupts mood-regulating neurotransmitters. Gluten sensitivity and other food triggers can significantly worsen depression. Blood Sugar Dysregulation: Insulin resistance doubles the risk of major depression and can be corrected. Infections: Chronic infections including Lyme disease, Epstein-Barr virus, chronic sinusitis, recurrent UTIs, viral myocarditis, and parasitic infections are frequently overlooked depression triggers. Gut-Brain Connection: Dysbiosis (altered microbiome) affects serotonin and dopamine production. Chronic yeast overgrowth can produce mood-altering metabolites. Lifestyle Factors: Exercise, sleep quality, stress reduction, social connection, purpose, sunlight exp 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 14m
  5. 18/09/2025

    Processed Foods Esposed: Your Guide to Eating Real and Feeling Great

    Ever wondered how processed foods impact health, mood, and even longevity? In this episode of Wellness Connection MD, Dr. Jim McMinn welcomes Functional Nutritionist Rachel Olsen for a practical and eye-opening discussion about processed food and its far-reaching effects. Rachel joins Dr. McMinn to break it all down for you, and explain why America leads the developed world in chronic disease, even though it spends the most money on health care. Rachel offers actionable tips for turning your diet around and improving your overall health.  Listeners will discover: -The difference between whole, minimally processed, processed, and ultra-processed foods -The disease risks linked to processed foods, from diabetes and heart disease to gut issues and mood disorders -Why ultra-processed foods are so commonplace — and how food industry tactics, convenience, and economics shape what’s on our plates -Which additives to watch for, food label red-flags, and the “halo foods” that sound healthy but aren’t -Realistic strategies for parents, travelers, and anyone trying to make better choices—from smart swaps to label-reading hacks -A fascinating look at how changing diets transformed the health of the Pima people, showing what’s at stake -Stories of real-life transformation and what it takes to see results -The ongoing debate about food accessibility, affordability, marketing, and regulation—plus the link between processed food, addiction, and the environment. So, whether you’re a busy professional, a parent, or just working toward better wellness, join Dr. McMinn and Rachel for science-backed answers and inspiration. Don’t forget to subscribe, share the show, and check McMinnMD.com for more resources and to connect with us! 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 6m
  6. 09/08/2025

    Microplastics: The Invisible Threat to Your Health and Our Planet

    Did you know the average person may be ingesting a credit card’s worth of plastic every single week? Microplastics and nanoplastics are everywhere—from the deepest ocean trenches to the highest mountain peaks. But they’re not just polluting our planet—they’re infiltrating our bodies and quietly wreaking havoc on our health. In this episode of Wellness Connection MD, Dr. McMinn and Coach Lindsay expose the invisible threat of microplastics and nanoplastics. You’ll discover how these “forever chemicals” enter your body through the food you eat, the water you drink, and even the air you breathe. Recent research indicates that 100% of humans, including newborns, now carry plastic particles in their bodies. Linked to dementia, heart attacks, strokes, infertility, PCOS, endometriosis, and more, these plastics are not passive bystanders. Some of their effects may even be passed down to future generations. Beyond our bodies, they’re devastating ecosystems—poisoning rivers, oceans, wildlife, and the very soil we depend on for food. The human cost is staggering, and the financial toll amounts to hundreds of billions of dollars in healthcare and lost productivity each year. In this podcast, you’ll learn: How microplastics infiltrate your food, water, air, and everyday products—often in ways you’d never suspect.Cutting-edge research linking plastic exposure to heart disease, gut issues, reproductive problems, and neurodegenerative conditions.Why children and future generations face the highest risks.Practical steps to reduce microplastic exposure at home, in your community, and through policy advocacy.How small, individual actions—multiplied—can spark global change.The plastics industry and government have long downplayed the dangers—but awareness is the first step toward change. If this episode opens your eyes, share it with friends, family, and your community. Together, we can reduce our plastic use, demand corporate accountability, and protect the only planet we have. For resources, tips, and ways to get involved, visit McMinnMD.com. Let’s turn knowledge into action—for ourselves, our children, and our one and only Earth. Stay curious. Stay informed. And remember—small actions can lead to big changes. 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

    45 min
  7. 27/06/2025

    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
  8. 16/05/2025

    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

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.

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