In this episode, Dr. Jessica Steier and Dr. Sarah Scheinman discuss the complexities of cancer with Dr. Joe Zundell, a cancer biologist. They explore the definition of cancer, its prevalence, and the hallmarks that characterize cancer cells. The conversation delves into the mechanisms of cancer growth, including sustaining proliferative signaling, evading growth suppression through the P53 gene, and the process of apoptosis. The discussion aims to make these complex topics accessible to a broader audience while highlighting the importance of understanding cancer biology. In this conversation, Dr. Joe Zundell discusses the complexities of cancer biology, focusing on key hallmarks such as immune response, replicative immortality, angiogenesis, and metastasis. He emphasizes the importance of early detection and the challenges of targeting cancer cells without affecting healthy cells. The discussion highlights the need for careful consideration of information regarding cancer treatment and the significance of working with healthcare professionals.

In this episode, Dr. Jessica Steier and Dr. Sarah Scheinman welcome Dr. Namandjé Bumpus, Principal Deputy Commissioner of the FDA, who shares insights into the agency's operations and her path from academia to FDA leadership. The scientists explore the complexities of drug approval processes, the FDA's organizational structure, and its commitment to safety and transparency. Dr. Bumpus discusses the agency's efforts to advance health equity and adapt to emerging technologies, while addressing the critical challenge of maintaining public trust. This conversation offers listeners a unique glimpse into the inner workings of the FDA and its role in protecting public health.

In this episode, Dr. Jessica Steier and Dr. Sarah Scheinman are joined by Dr. Ayesha Sherzai to explore brain health, with a focus on dementia and Alzheimer's disease. The scientists address common misconceptions and examine evidence-based approaches to cognitive health, including the role of nutrition, supplements, and music therapy. They debunk popular myths about brain usage and detoxification while emphasizing the importance of engaging in meaningful activities for cognitive resilience. Throughout the conversation, the experts highlight the intimate connection between brain health and overall well-being, providing listeners with reliable information to counter widespread misinformation in this field.

In this episode, Dr. Jessica Steier and Dr. Sarah Scheinman discuss anxiety and panic disorders with clinical psychologist Dr. Nicole Lippman-Barile. The scientists explore the definitions of anxiety, its neurobiological underpinnings, and various types of anxiety disorders. They examine common myths surrounding nutrition and mental health, with a focus on the gut-brain connection. They conclude the episode by discussing effective coping mechanisms and treatment options for those struggling with anxiety disorders, providing listeners with valuable insights into managing these common mental health challenges.

In this episode, Dr. Jessica Steier and Dr. Sarah Scheinman are joined by the leaders of the Human Immunome Project to explore groundbreaking research in immunology. The scientists discuss the project's mission to comprehensively map and understand the human immune system, emphasizing the importance of studying diverse populations through longitudinal research. They delve into the complexities of immune system dynamics, modern immunotherapy advances, and the development of predictive models for precision medicine. The conversation highlights how this ambitious collaborative effort integrates existing data while pioneering new methodologies, offering listeners insight into the future of personalized healthcare through innovative immune system research.

In this episode, Dr. Jessica Steier and Dr. Sarah Scheinman are joined by Dr. Joey Munoz to explore the comprehensive benefits of exercise. The scientists discuss the distinctions between aerobic and strength training, highlighting their unique impacts on physical health. They delve into the often-overlooked psychological and cognitive advantages of regular physical activity, challenging common exercise myths along the way. They emphasize the importance of finding joy in exercise and offer practical advice for integrating physical activity into daily routines. The episode concludes with an engaging Q&A segment, addressing listeners' questions about exercise and its effects on overall health, providing valuable insights for those seeking to improve their fitness and well-being.

In this episode, Dr. Jessica Steier and Dr. Sarah Scheinman investigate the widespread myth that sugar causes ADHD and hyperactivity. The scientists trace the origins of this belief, including the influential Feingold diet, and examine scientific studies that challenge the purported link between sugar and hyperactive behavior. They explore sugar's biological effects on the brain, discuss the concept of addiction in relation to sugar, and consider the health consequences of excessive sugar consumption. Dr. Steier and Dr. Scheinman provide a balanced perspective on sugar intake, emphasizing the importance of moderation and informed dietary choices. This episode offers listeners valuable insights into the complex relationship between nutrition and behavior, debunking common misconceptions about sugar's impact on hyperactivity and ADHD.

In this episode, Dr. Jessica Steier and Dr. Sarah Scheinman discuss anxiety and panic disorders with clinical psychologist Dr. Nicole Lippman-Barile. The scientists explore the definitions of anxiety, its neurobiological underpinnings, and various types of anxiety disorders. They examine common myths surrounding nutrition and mental health, with a focus on the gut-brain connection. They conclude the episode by discussing effective coping mechanisms and treatment options for those struggling with anxiety disorders, providing listeners with valuable insights into managing these common mental health challenges.

In this episode, Dr. Jess Steier and Dr. Sarah Scheinman explore the fascinating field of epigenetics, which examines how external factors influence gene expression and impact health outcomes. They discuss the interplay between nature and nurture, explaining how epigenetics involves information layered on top of DNA that affects gene operation. The scientists cover key mechanisms like DNA methylation and histone modifications, and how factors such as nutrition and stress can impact these processes. They highlight landmark studies, including research on agouti mice and the Dutch Famine Birth Cohort Study, which demonstrate the long-term effects of environmental factors on gene expression and disease risk. The conversation also touches on the implications of epigenetics for mental health and the potential for future advancements in personalized medicine. Throughout the episode, Dr. Steier and Dr. Scheinman emphasize the complex relationship between genetics and environment in shaping human development and health.

This episode of Unbiased Science is proudly sponsored by the Champions for Vaccine Education, Equity and Progress (CVEEP). Drs. Jess Steier and Sarah Scheinman discuss respiratory virus season and the importance of vaccines with guest Dr. Bertha Hidalgo, an epidemiologist. They give lots of practical guidance on ways to stay protected this season!

Dr. Jen Brull, a family physician and president elect of the American Academy of Family Physicians joins the pod to discuss vaccines and address common questions and concerns. She recommends having a trusted relationship with a family physician and provides reliable sources of information.

In this episode, Dr. Jessica Steier and Dr. Sarah Scheinman are joined by Dr. Julie Bruene, a sports medicine physician, to discuss concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).

This episode provides valuable insights into the complexities of concussions and TBIs, emphasizing the need for education, proper diagnosis, and appropriate management strategies. The comprehensive discussion offers listeners a deeper understanding of the risks associated with brain injuries and the importance of proper care and prevention.

We are BACK for SEASON FIVE of the pod! In this episode, Dr. Jessica Steier and Dr. Sarah Scheinman discuss Alzheimer's disease and cognitive decline. They cover essential topics including the definition and symptoms of Alzheimer's, the genetic and epigenetic basis of the disease, brain changes associated with Alzheimer's, risk factors such as age, genetics, and lifestyle, modifiable risk factors and prevention strategies, and current treatments and their controversies.

The scientists emphasize that maintaining overall health is crucial for brain health. They recommend a combination of lifestyle choices that promote general well-being, which in turn support cognitive health.

The episode aims to provide valuable insights and alleviate fears surrounding Alzheimer's disease. It concludes with a rapid-fire Q&A segment addressing listeners' questions.

On this episode of the pod, Jess discusses the topic of misinformation in the wellness industry (specifically related to mental health) with special guest, Dr. Jonathan Stea. They delve into the history of wellness, the commercialization of the wellness industry, and the impact of alternative medicine. They also explore the concept of wellness and how it is often pitted against conventional medicine as the answer to the “root cause” of health issues. They discuss the pseudoscientific nature of alternative medicine and the predatory practices within the multi-trillion dollar industry. The two explore the psychological, cultural, and economic factors contributing to the industry's growth and the challenges in countering its damaging effects. They give some specific examples of mental mental wellness grift that might shock you. You won’t want to miss this!

Measles, once on the brink of eradication in the U.S., is making a dangerous comeback. Cerise Marotta, Director of Advocacy and Education at Vaccinate Your Family, joined Jess to share her personal journey, the loss of her son to a vaccine-preventable illness, which shaped her life's commitment to vaccine education. They discuss the challenges of vaccine hesitancy, the concept of herd immunity, and the work being done by community health workers to educate and engage communities. The conversation highlights the need for empathy, tailored approaches, and storytelling to address vaccine hesitancy and protect against vaccine-preventable diseases. You don't want to miss this!

On this week's episode of the pod, Jess is joined by Esther Olu (aka "The Melanin Chemist" to talk about the chemistry of our skincare! We discuss the significance of "melanin-friendly" sunscreens and the importance of understanding hyperpigmentation to find effective solutions. We delve into the world of preservatives, exploring whether products can be adequately preserved without them. Our guest also shares her holy grail skincare product and ingredients she avoids. We tackle the common misconception surrounding sulfate and silicone-free products and analyze the in-flight makeup trend. Lastly, we address the issue of inclusivity in shade ranges, particularly for foundations, and advocate for better representation in the beauty industry. You don't want to miss this!

On this week's episode of the pod, Jess is joined by Dr. David Robert Grimes to discuss various aspects of cancer, including prevalence, survivorship, trends, and prevention. They emphasize the importance of understanding that cancer is a complex disease with various forms and causes. They debunk myths and misinformation surrounding cancer, such as the idea that sugar, sunscreen, or deficiency in vitamin C cause cancer. They also highlight the role of screening programs in early detection and prevention, while cautioning against unnecessary tests and over-treatment. They chat about modifiable risk factors for cancer, such as smoking, obesity, and sun exposure -- as well as cellular changes during the aging process. The conversation takes a positive turn when the two discuss the potential of mRNA vaccines in cancer treatment. They emphasize the importance of critical thinking and skepticism when evaluating cancer-related information, particularly on social media. You don't want to miss this!

On this week's episode of the pod, Jess is joined by Dr. Sarah Ballantyne for an unfiltered heart-to-heart discussion. You may have heard Sarah's name mentioned on a previous episode of the pod-- being criticized for her association with the autoimmune protocol (AIP) diet. Yes, Sarah was previously known as the Paleo mom but has shed that title and done a complete 180 to right past wrongs and correct previous misinformation that she unknowingly spread. No topic was off limits during this raw conversation. She talks about what prompted the change and how it was received by her audience. She shares about her new approach to nutrition and the two do a deep dive on Nutrivore and how "scoring systems" can be problematic when it comes to diets. Sarah uses the time to clear up misconceptions and share an honest update with listeners. This episode is like none other and is not to be missed!

Dr. Joe Schwarcz, a world-renowned chemist and science communicator joins the pod to address some commonly asked questions! They kick-off the conversation by discussing the concept of superfoods and the need for a balanced diet, as well as the role of vitamins and supplements. They also touch on the origins of the belief that vitamin C can cure the common cold, tracing it back to Dr. Linus Pauling (and discuss the impact of eminence versus evidence). They walk through the evidence (or lack thereof) that vitamin C has role in treating the common cold. Dr. Joe discusses the exploitation of indigenous cures by American settlers and the rise of alternative medicine. The conversation touches on the topic of benzene and its potential toxicity (but that we do not need to throw out our sunscreen). Dr. Joe emphasizes the importance of evidence-based medicine and the need to distinguish between legitimate scientific research and quackery. You do NOT want to miss this!

In this episode, Jess is joined by Dr. Joey Munoz to discuss various topics related to nutrition, including the monetization of expertise, the role of supplements, and the marketing tactics used in the supplement industry. They emphasize the importance of evidence-based claims and the need for individualized approaches to supplementation. The conversation covers the importance of dose and type of supplements, the limitations of marketing claims, and the Yuka app's oversimplification of food ratings. The hosts discuss the need for nuance and context in nutrition, the role of overall dietary patterns, and the potential for food anxiety and disordered eating caused by black-and-white labeling. They emphasize the importance of individual goals and habits, rather than focusing on good and bad foods. You do not want to miss this!