In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we reveal how insulin resistance may be the hidden cause behind many cases of high blood pressure. Up to 75% of people with hypertension also have insulin resistance—even if they don’t have diabetes—making this metabolic dysfunction a major factor in cardiovascular health. We break down the science: how …

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we explore the growing evidence that the ketogenic diet may do more than manage type 2 diabetes—it could help reverse it. Once viewed as a progressive disease, type 2 diabetes is now being reexamined through a metabolic lens, with keto offering a direct way to lower insulin demand, improve blood sugar co…

Welcome to the world of monopsony - where sellers, not buyers, get the raw deal. So, how does this impact me as a consumer? Then, the link between productivity and a pay increase. Guests: Emilia Terzon - ABC national business reporter Matthew McKenzie - Energy and economics reporter with the West Australian Get in touch: We read all of your emails,…

Ag Ed is uniquely positioned to support boys in school. Stacy Vincent (University of Kentucky) joins the OP crew to share key findings from an experimental study looking at student performance in same-sex versus co-ed classrooms. Tune in to hear more about how students process and engage in school differently. Journal article: https://jae-online.or…

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we explore the growing global issue of metabolic syndrome—a condition that significantly increases the risk for heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. But there’s good news: the latest research shows that targeted dietary and lifestyle changes can do more than just manage symptoms—they can help reve…

With a strong second-term mandate, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has a rare chance to drive real change. From tax to housing to climate policy, the moment is ripe for long-term reform that could shape Australia’s future for decades. But where to begin? Plus, listener Alex challenges the narrative around government debt and household budgets. Gues…

The "To Those Concerned with Teacher Retention" mini-series highlights a series of vulnerable conversations in letter form to help us ask tough questions of the education career. The series will challenge listeners to consider new solutions, imagine "what ifs," and inform future directions for education. The full journal article includes appendices…

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we break down what your cholesterol panel is really telling you—not just about your heart, but about your liver health and overall metabolism. Inspired by Dr. Robert Lustig’s insights, we cut through the confusion around total cholesterol, LDL particle size, and triglyceride-to-HDL ratios to help you bet…

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we reveal the often-overlooked connection between high blood pressure and insulin resistance. While hypertension is typically treated as a standalone condition, research shows that 50-75% of people with primary hypertension also have insulin resistance—even without diabetes. Learn how insulin affects mor…

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we explore low testosterone—a condition that affects far more than sex drive. From muscle loss and brain fog to increased belly fat and mood changes, declining testosterone levels can impact nearly every system in a man’s body. We break down the most common signs of Low T, explore modern lifestyle factor…

Australia’s inflation rate is now firmly in the RBA’s target band, but groceries, rent, and daily essentials still feel painfully expensive. Why is there a disconnect between the data and what we think is our lived reality? The Opposition leader, Peter Dutton, says he wants to cut Australia’s permanent migration program. Is such a cut possible? And…

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we dive deep into the cellular consequences of high sugar intake, examining how it drives insulin resistance and damages mitochondrial function—the energy powerhouses of your cells. Learn how excess sugar leads to a vicious metabolic cycle, where insulin resistance and mitochondrial dysfunction feed into…

Jamie Greig and his team at University of Tennessee knows implementing VR can feel intimidating, but with their guide to planning, process, and reflection, you'll be a VR implementation expert in no time. Journal Article: https://agdevresearch.org/index.php/aad/article/view/353By Owl Pellets

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we explore the fascinating connection between diet, metabolism, and brain function. Learn how the brain, despite making up just 2% of your body weight, consumes 20% of your daily energy—and how ketones may offer a cleaner, more efficient fuel than glucose. We dive into the science behind beta-hydroxybuty…

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we uncover the silent epidemic of sexually transmitted infections (STIs)—a growing health issue that affects 1 in 5 Americans, often without any symptoms. We discuss the most common STIs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, HPV, and HIV, and why asymptomatic carriers are a major reason they…

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we tackle the often frustrating diagnosis of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)—a label that names your symptoms but rarely explains them. Instead of settling for generic treatment, we explore how functional gut testing can uncover what’s really driving your digestive issues. Learn how tests like comprehensi…

It's more than job losses. It's dreams deferred and careers that never get off the ground. Why do the scars last a lifetime? Then, why does the Justice Department want to break up Google? Plus, penalty rates are under the spotlight again, but do they really cost the economy jobs? Guests: Dan Ziffer - ABC national business reporter Rachel Clayton - …

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we explore non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)—a condition once thought to affect only those who are overweight. Shocking new data shows that up to 20% of NAFLD cases occur in people with a normal BMI, forcing us to rethink how we define metabolic health. We discuss how visceral fat, insulin resist…

We'll just come right out and say it: Mobility might be a retention strategy. Becky Haddad (University of Nebraska-Lincoln) and Lavyne Rada (Co-Director of the Minnesota Teacher Induction Program) chat with Mike and Brian about reasonable retention, navigating the teaching career, and supporting newness across the career spectrum. Journal Article: …

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we take a closer look at seed oils—highly refined oils like soybean, corn, canola, and sunflower—that have become staples in the modern diet. While often marketed as “heart-healthy,” these oils may actually be fueling chronic inflammation and metabolic dysfunction. We explore how the dramatic rise in ome…

What do luxury handbags and kids’ colouring books have in common? They're both caught up in the latest economic crossfire. Then, we unpack the economic chaos of an election campaign full of promises, including a $1,000 no-questions-asked tax deduction. Plus, Australia’s very own Future Fund fantasies: who's really winning, and are you one of them? …

The "To Those Concerned with Teacher Retention" mini-series highlights a series of vulnerable conversations in letter form to help us ask tough questions of the education career. The series will challenge listeners to consider new solutions, imagine "what ifs," and inform future directions for education. The full journal article includes appendices…

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we explore the groundbreaking work of Dr. Jason Fung, a physician who challenges the outdated "calories in, calories out" model of weight management. Instead, he places the focus where it belongs: on hormones—especially insulin—as the true regulators of fat storage and energy use. We dive into Dr. Fung’s…

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we explore the powerful connection between diet and inflammation—and how everyday food choices can either fuel or fight the silent driver behind many chronic diseases. Learn how the Western diet, packed with sugar, refined carbs, and processed foods, triggers chronic low-grade inflammation, contributing …

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we uncover the importance of fasting insulin testing—a powerful yet often overlooked marker that can reveal signs of metabolic dysfunction years before blood sugar levels show a problem. Learn how insulin resistance develops, why hyperinsulinemia can go undetected for so long, and how this early warning …

Super falling. Mortgage stress rising. Retirement plans, once solid, now blurred by uncertainty. There is an anxiety currently shaking Australian financial confidence. We unpack what Trump's latest tariffs mean for your financial future, and how to steady the ship in turbulent times. Guests: Nicki Hutley - Independent economist Michael Janda - ABC …

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we break down metabolic syndrome—a cluster of five risk factors that, when three or more occur together, dramatically increase your risk for heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. You’ll learn how insulin resistance, abdominal fat, and chronic inflammation form a dangerous cycle that affects million…

Curious about how to set failure as an expectation? WHAT?! Taylor Merrick (Arizona ag teacher) and Amber Rice (Iowa State University) have the inside scoop on problem-based learning to help teachers work their students through the process of problem solving, the nature of conflict, and the environment you create in the process. Journal Article: htt…

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we uncover the powerful role of cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone, and how it affects far more than your response to pressure. From energy crashes and insomnia to belly fat and inflammation, cortisol’s daily rhythm is at the core of your metabolic and immune function. We explain how chronic str…

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we explore Anemia of Chronic Disease (ACD)—a common yet often misunderstood condition that affects millions, particularly older adults and those with ongoing inflammatory illnesses. Unlike iron deficiency anemia, ACD occurs despite having normal or even high iron stores, due to inflammation disrupting th…

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we explore how functional medicine is reshaping the way we treat type 2 diabetes—not just by managing blood sugar, but by uncovering and addressing the root causes behind the condition. We look at diabetes through a whole-body lens, exploring key drivers like insulin resistance, inflammation, gut health,…

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we dive into advanced cardiovascular blood testing—a powerful tool that goes far beyond basic cholesterol panels to uncover hidden risks before symptoms arise. We explore how markers like hsCRP, oxidized LDL, ApoB, and Lp(a) offer a deeper look at inflammation, genetic predispositions, insulin resistance…

President Trump is promising more than the world has ever seen. What impact will the US tariff move have on Australian producers, businesses, shoppers, and the broader economic landscape?By Australian Broadcasting Corporation

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we explore how mobile phlebotomy services are transforming the lab testing experience—bringing convenience, safety, and accessibility to your doorstep. From busy professionals and rural patients to those with limited mobility, mobile blood draws and sample collections eliminate common barriers like trans…

A team isn't just a group of people thrown together, and Tom Jacobsen with the University of Idaho Extension has some great tips for us to build teams through LDE preparation. Tune in as Tom chats with the crew about defining success, engaging in a team building process, and teaching employability skills in how we ask students to prepare for compet…

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we explore the powerful connection between GLP-1—a key gut hormone—and its role in digestion, inflammation, immunity, and chronic health issues. What Hippocrates once said—“all disease begins in the gut”—is now backed by science. Learn how GLP-1 supports blood sugar control, appetite regulation, and gut …

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we uncover the powerful connection between insulin resistance and PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)—a link that affects up to 80% of women with the condition, even those who appear healthy on the outside. We explain how elevated insulin levels fuel androgen production, disrupt hormones, and contribute to …

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we uncover pheochromocytoma—a rare but potentially life-threatening tumor of the adrenal glands that often mimics anxiety, panic attacks, or uncontrolled high blood pressure. Though it affects only a few people per million each year, its impact is serious. We break down the classic symptom triad—sudden h…

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we spotlight the thyroid—a small but powerful gland that plays a major role in your overall health. From regulating metabolism to supporting mood, heart rate, and body temperature, your thyroid acts like the body's internal thermostat. We break down 10 often-overlooked signs that may point to a thyroid i…

The budget week that began with an unexpected tax cut has evolved into a debate about what we pay at the pump. What's better for you in the long run?By Australian Broadcasting Corporation

In this episode of The Health Pulse Podcast, we explore the vital role of blood testing in diagnosing and managing scleroderma, a complex autoimmune disease that can affect the skin, blood vessels, and internal organs. We break down how tests like the ANA, Anti-Centromere, and Anti-SCL70 antibodies help identify different types of scleroderma, whil…

The "To Those Concerned with Teacher Retention" mini-series highlights a series of vulnerable conversations in letter form to help us ask tough questions of the education career. The series will challenge listeners to consider new solutions, imagine "what ifs," and inform future directions for education. The full journal article includes appendices…

Food allergies affect millions—and the “Big 8” allergens account for over 90% of all reactions. From mild discomfort to life-threatening anaphylaxis, recognizing and managing these allergies is essential. In this episode, we break down: • The difference between true allergies and food intolerances • Why milk and eggs are especially tricky in proces…

🎧 In this episode of The Health Pulse, we explore amyloidosis—a rare but potentially life-threatening condition caused by 🧬 misfolded proteins that build up in your organs and tissues. Although early symptoms can be subtle, the impact can be serious if left untreated. 🔍 What we cover: • 🧪 What amyloidosis is and how misfolded proteins disrupt organ…

🎙️When a 42-year-old man visits the clinic with shortness of breath and chest discomfort, his case seems straightforward—until a few unusual details begin to raise questions. From childhood surgeries to a subtle physical trait, this episode follows a medical mystery that slowly unravels into something far more complex than expected. What do differe…

In this episode, we take a deep dive into sarcoidosis—a complex inflammatory condition that primarily affects the lungs and lymph nodes but can impact multiple organs. You'll learn about its underlying immune and metabolic mechanisms, common symptoms, possible causes, and evidence-based treatments. Whether you're a patient, caregiver, or simply cur…

Menopause is not the end of femininity or attractiveness, but a new chapter of opportunity and freedom. In this episode, we debunk common myths, explore menopause symptoms, and discuss strategies for maintaining health and vitality. ✅ Common myths and misconceptions ✅ Recognizing menopause symptoms and hormonal changes ✅ Protecting bone density and…

Electricity makes up a smaller slice of household spending than beer or takeaway – yet power bills spark outrage like nothing else. With prices set to jump 30%, is the government trapped in an endless cycle of rebates? Plus, a restaurant collapse leaves workers unpaid, exposing a major flaw in Australia’s wage safety net. Meanwhile, cash is dying, …

🎙️ The brain is our most powerful organ, controlling every aspect of our lives, yet its health often takes a backseat to physical fitness. In this episode of The Health Pulse, we discuss why prioritizing brain health is essential for maintaining cognitive function, memory, and independence as we age. What You'll Learn in This Episode: ✅ Nutrition E…

Philanthropy is an intentional, private allocation of time or money--more simply, it's just giving back where you can, and Amber Rice (Iowa State) and Weslee Potts (Arizona Mom & administrator) are here to tell us more! Tune in as they share how Gen Z seeks connection, meaning, purpose, and belonging in their philanthropic efforts, looking to give …