Soma Says

Unseen Heroes: Advocating for 9/11 Survivors

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In this special episode of 'Soma Says', Dr. Soma is joined by Sara Director, a 9/11 survivor and partner at Barasch & McGarry. Sara shares her harrowing experience of witnessing the events of September 11, 2001, and how it propelled her into a career advocating for 9/11 victims. The discussion covers the lasting health impacts of the toxic air in Lower Manhattan, the challenges in recognizing uterine cancer as a 9/11-related illness, and the ongoing efforts to raise awareness and provide support through the Victim Compensation Fund and the World Trade Center Health Program. Sara emphasizes the importance of spreading the word about available resources and the necessity for those affected to come forward and utilize these life-saving programs.
 
00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement
 
01:00 Sara's Personal 9/11 Experience
 
03:40 The Ongoing Impact of 9/11
 
04:55 Advocacy for Uterine Cancer Recognition
 
12:44 Challenges and Misconceptions
 
19:46 Spreading Awareness and Advocacy Efforts
 
26:28 Balancing Professional and Personal Life
 
29:20 Conclusion and Call to Action

Scalpel to Needle: Dr. Sina Smith’s Journey to Demystifying Acupuncture

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In this episode of 'Soma Says,' host Dr. Soma is joined by Dr. Sina Leslie Smith, an accomplished medical doctor and licensed acupuncturist with extensive training in homeopathic, integrative, culinary, and functional medicine. Dr. Smith shares her personal journey, starting from her early dreams of becoming a surgeon to discovering the transformative power of acupuncture after a debilitating injury. The conversation covers the scientific and traditional aspects of acupuncture, its diverse applications, and common misconceptions. Dr. Smith also discusses her work integrating acupuncture into mainstream medicine, particularly within the Department of Defense, the VA system, and federally qualified health centers. She emphasizes the importance of dietary choices and holistic health practices. The episode concludes with insights into Dr. Smith's educational initiatives
and her book 'Demystifying Acupuncture.'
 
00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer
 
00:42 Meet Dr. Sina Leslie Smith
 
01:38 Dr. Smith's Journey to Acupuncture
 
04:43 Dr. Soma's Acupuncture Experience
 
07:05 Integrative Medicine and Acupuncture
 
07:41 Challenges and Misconceptions
 
11:05 How Acupuncture Works
 
24:10 Acupuncture in Modern Healthcare
 
31:44 Patient Success Stories
 
34:35 Diet and Lifestyle Tips
 
37:52 Where to Find Dr. Smith
 
39:12 Conclusion and Call to Action
 
Dr. Sina Smith can be found at https://sinasmithmd.com/
 
IG: https://www.instagram.com/sinasmithmd/
 
Find her book, 'Demystifying Acupuncture" on Amazon:
 
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1959608770?maas=maas_adg_5F2C39413B99DDD6F014C0D84E419600_afap_abs&ref_=aa_maas&tag=maas
 

From Puberty to Menopause: Hormones and GI Health with Dr. Aditi Chhada

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In this episode of Soma Says, host Dr. Soma welcomes Dr. Aditi Chhada, a renowned gastroenterologist specializing in women's GI health at Gastroenterology Associates of New Jersey.  Dr. Chhada shares insights on the impact of hormonal fluctuations on the digestive system, the importance of the microbiome, and effective management strategies for GI symptoms during different stages of a woman's life. Listeners will gain invaluable guidance on dietary changes, lifestyle practices, and the role of probiotics in maintaining gut health across reproductive, perimenopausal, and menopausal phases.
 
00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer
 
00:40 Meet Dr. Aditi Chhada
 
01:55 Women's Health and GI: A Deep Dive
 
04:36 Hormonal Fluctuations and GI Health
 
06:07 Menstrual Cycle and GI Symptoms
 
09:14 Perimenopause and Menopause: GI Issues
 
11:33 The Role of the Microbiome
 
13:14 Antibiotics and the Microbiome
 
14:55 Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations
 
17:28 Probiotics: Do They Help?
 
19:39 Common GI Conditions in Women
 
22:37 Future Research and Final Thoughts
 
25:24 Conclusion and Takeaways
 
Dr. Chhada's profile: https://www.ganjllc.com/physician/dr-aditi-chhada/

Real Talk with Dr. Mary Alice Mina: Enhancing Skin Health

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In this educational podcast episode, the Dr. Soma features Dr. Mary Alice Mina, a Harvard-trained dermatologist and Mohs surgeon based in Atlanta. Dr. Mina shares her journey from being a ballet dancer to becoming a dermatologist. She discusses her approach to dermatology, stressing the importance of preventative care for maintaining healthy skin. The conversation delves into a range of topics including skincare routines, the impact of hormones on the skin, the role of the microbiome in skin health, and bringing regenerative medicine into dermatology. Dr. Mina also provides practical tips on using effective and affordable skincare products, highlights the importance of professional treatments, and addresses common skin concerns for aging women.
 
00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer
 
00:39 Meet Dr. Mary Alice Mina
 
01:10 Journey to Dermatology
 
04:02 Specialization in Procedural Dermatology
 
05:38 Skin Care and Prevention Tips
 
15:14 Collagen and Anti-Aging Strategies
 
21:51 Microbiome and Skin Health
 
28:22 Future Trends in Dermatology
 
30:54 Conclusion and Contact Information
 
Dr. Mina can be found at https://www.theskinreal.com/ and https://www.atlantadermsurgery.com/about/dr-mary-alice-mina
 
IG: https://www.instagram.com/drminaskin/
 
Listen to Dr. Mina's podcast at https://www.theskinreal.com/podcast

Embodying Confidence and Pleasure: A Journey with Erica Wiederlight

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In this episode of Soma Says, Dr. Soma welcomes Erica Wiederlight, a Confidence Coach specializing in guiding individuals through dating, love, sexual empowerment, and self-journeys. Erica shares her personal backstory, her professional journey as a coach and actor, and her passion for helping clients reclaim their confidence and embody pleasure in everyday life. The discussion covers various tools, techniques, and resources available for personal growth and empowerment. Erica also shares insights on her approach to coaching, including the importance of creating safety and integrating pleasure into life. Listeners can expect to learn about the transformative power of embodiment and gain practical takeaways to enhance their well-being.
 
00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer
 
00:53 Meet Erica Wiederlight: Confidence Coach
 
01:28 Erica's Personal Journey
 
04:33 The Role of Embodiment in Coaching
 
06:11 Challenges and Transformations
 
14:06 Resources and Recommendations
 
15:52 Navigating the Dating World
 
17:01 Understanding What You Want in Dating
 
17:49 Building Confidence and Addressing Past Experiences
 
18:26 Making Dating Fun and Approachable
 
20:20 Becoming a Love Coach: Training and Education
 
21:48 Welcome to the Wieder Life Podcast
 
23:27 Integrating Acting and Coaching
 
28:59 Virtual Practice and Free Resources
 
30:35 Final Takeaway Tool for Integrating Pleasure
 
You can find Erica Wiederlight at https://www.wethelight.org/ and IG https://www.instagram.com/wethelight_llc/
 
You can also listen to Erica Wiederlight's podcast at https://www.wethelight.org/podcast
 

Screen Time: The Good, The Bad and The Balanced

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In this episode of 'Soma Says,' Dr. Soma discusses the impact of excessive screen time on children, including physical health issues, sleep disruption, attention problems, and social challenges. Backed by recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics, Dr. Soma offers practical strategies to balance screen usage, such as engaging in outdoor activities, sports, crafts, and educational apps. The episode highlights the importance of setting boundaries and finding a healthy balance to raise well-rounded kids in the digital age.
00:00 Introduction and Personal Update
01:15 The Impact of Screen Time on Kids
01:33 Negative Effects of Excessive Screen Time
03:14 Positive Aspects of Screen Time
04:54 Practical Tips to Reduce Screen Time
06:47 Balancing Screen Time and Alternative Activities
07:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Understanding Women's Digestive Health with Dr. Asma Khapra

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Understanding Women's Digestive Health with Dr. Asma Khapra
 
In this episode of Soma Says, host Dr. Soma interviews Dr. Asma Khapra, a gastroenterologist specializing in women's digestive health and inflammatory bowel disease. They discuss the unique needs of women in gastrointestinal care, the impact of hormonal changes on digestive health, and the importance of personalized care. Dr. Khapra also shares insights on the lack of female gastroenterologists, the benefits of lifestyle modifications, emerging treatments, and the role of probiotics. The episode emphasizes the importance of addressing patient comfort and the value of holistic treatment approaches.
 
00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer
 
01:00 Meet Dr. Khapra: A Gastroenterologist's Journey
 
02:03 Focus on Women's Digestive Health
 
05:24 Hormonal Fluctuations and GI Symptoms
 
07:29 Managing IBS During Menstrual Cycles
 
08:41 Pelvic Floor Issues and GI Health
 
11:44 GI Changes During Perimenopause and Menopause
 
17:28 Emerging Treatments and Research in GI Health
 
23:14 Probiotics and the Microbiome
 
27:23 Supporting Women in Digestive Health
 
29:22 Resources and Networks for Women with GI Issues
 
31:10 Conclusion and Farewell
 
Dr. Asma Khapra can be found at https://gastrohealth.com/physicians/asma-p-khapra-md

From Struggles to Strength: How Project Blackbird is Changing the Conversation on Eating Disorders

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In this episode of Soma Says, host Dr. Soma welcomes guests Alexandra Miles, Kendra Williams, and Paula Edwards-Gayfield from Project Blackbird, a nonprofit aimed at de-stigmatizing the conversation around eating disorders and mental health within underrepresented communities. Alexandra, the founder and CEO, shares the inception story of the organization and the film 'Blackbird,' which portrays the realities of eating disorders. Kendra and Paula discuss the challenges of creating and promoting the film, the misconceptions about eating disorders, and the unique barriers faced by minority groups in seeking help. The episode emphasizes the importance of mental health discussions and the organization’s efforts to provide resources, educational support, and therapy to those in need.
 
00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer
 
00:54 Meet the Guests: Project Blackbird
 
02:09 Inspiration Behind Project Blackbird
 
04:41 Challenges in Creating the Film and Organization
 
09:50 Understanding Eating Disorders: Myths and Facts
 
16:32 Impact and Future Goals of Project Blackbird
 
23:53 Addressing Disparities in Mental Health
 
30:09 Final Thoughts and Call to Action
 

Spices as Medicine: The Health Benefits of Turmeric and More with Deepti Gupta

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In this episode, the Dr. Soma interviews Deepti Gupta, the owner of Yoga Weave Wellness Studio and a certified brain longevity specialist. The discussion centers on the health benefits of various spices, focusing primarily on turmeric, known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Deepti shares insights into the historical significance and modern-day applications of spices like cinnamon and garlic in different cultures. She also emphasizes the importance of consulting with a doctor before using supplements and provides practical tips on how to incorporate spices into everyday cooking for maximum health benefits. The episode concludes with advice on sourcing high-quality spices and highlights Deepti's expertise in promoting wellness through nutrition.
 
00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer
 
00:51 Meet Our Guest: Owner of Yoga Weave Wellness Studio
 
01:26 The Power of Spices in Everyday Cooking
 
03:22 Turmeric: The Miracle Spice
 
07:29 Cinnamon and Garlic: Heart-Healthy Spices
 
11:08 Choosing and Using High-Quality Spices
 
16:24 Global Influence of Spices
 
17:45 Conclusion and Guest Information

Cupping Therapy: Ancient Techniques for Modern Healing with Dr. Tom Ingegno

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In this episode of Soma Says, Dr. Soma is joined by Dr. Tom Ingegno, a seasoned acupuncturist and founder of Charm City Integrative Health. Dr. Ingegno discusses the ancient practice of cupping, its therapeutic benefits for a variety of medical conditions, and its integration into modern healthcare. He shares insights from his extensive experience and his motivations behind writing 'The Cupping Book.' The conversation also covers practical advice for practitioners, potential risks, and the importance of combining traditional and cutting-edge therapies for optimal patient care.
 
00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer
00:50 Meet Dr. Tom Ingegno
02:34 The Ancient Art of Cupping
05:21 How Cupping Works
07:54 Cupping for Various Conditions
11:30 Practical Advice for Cupping
15:06 Risks and Considerations
16:13 Where to Find Dr. Ingegno
17:55 Conclusion and Farewell