Eating healthy after a cancer diagnosis is a common goal, but can you go too far? On this show, Karolyn talks with cancer and nutrition expert Conner Middelmann a Certified Nutrition Professional (CNP) and the founder of Modern Mediterranean. Some studies indicate that people diagnosed with cancer are at risk of developing a disordered eating pattern called orthorexia, characterized by an obsessive preoccupation with healthy eating and a fixation on food purity. Conner will discuss how to avoid and identify this extreme eating pattern and provide strategies to address it.
Bringing Medicine Home
In this episode of Five to Thrive Live, Dr. Joseph Vazquez, a naturopathic physician, joins us to talk about the heart of community medicine — bringing healthcare directly to the places where people live, work, and connect. Dr. Vazquez shares innovative examples of how integrative medicine is reshaping care delivery and creating meaningful change where it’s needed most.
Can GLP-1 Medications Reduce Cancer Risk?
GLP-1 medications are certainly getting a lot of attention these days. But how safe are these medications? And do they have additional benefits beyond weight loss? On this show, Karolyn talks with researcher Kristin Altwegg, PhD, recipient of the AICR/WCRF Marilyn Gentry Fellowship. Dr. Altwegg's research is looking at GLP-1 weight loss drugs and their influence on obesity-related cancer risk, specifically breast, endometrial, and colon. Dr. Altwegg will discuss her research and the pros and cons of these medications.
What We All Need to Know about Environmental Risks to Breast Health
In this episode of Five to Thrive Live, naturopathic doctor, Dr. LaDeana Jeane will unpack how environmental toxins – everything from plastics to hidden chemical exposures - interact with the body, influence hormonal balance, and potentially contribute to breast cancer risk. Join us as we separate fear from fact and share practical strategies to reduce exposure and support long-term wellness.
Herbal Profile: Botanicals For Blood Sugar Balance
Balanced blood sugar is important for many reasons including managing weight, optimal brain function, maintaining consistent energy levels, and reducing the risk of several chronic illnesses such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. On this show, Karolyn profiles herbs that help balance blood sugar with herbal expert Dr. Patricia Gaines who is the Chair of the Botanical Medicine Department and a supervising physician at Sonoran University Medical Center.
Health Freedom at a Crossroads
In this episode of Five to Thrive Live, Loren Israelsen, Founder and President of the United Natural Products Alliance and key architect of the landmark DSHEA legislation that regulates dietary supplements, will explore how health freedom has evolved over generations. We will discuss challenges to health freedom and what we can each do to protect informed choice and product quality.
Nutrient Profile: Low-Dose Lithium
Continuing with her theme of nutrient profiles, on this episode Karolyn talks with mental health expert Peter Bongiorno, ND, about low-dose lithium. How much do you know about this unique, specialized nutrient? What is it used for and how safe is it? Tune in to find out more. In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Bongiorno is the author of several best-selling books and he is on a mission to revolutionize psychiatric care in this country.
Creating Your Thrive Tribe
Finding friends and creating a community can be difficult especially during key life phases such as moving to a new city, getting a new job, being an empty nester, retiring, divorce, etc., etc.! On this show, Karolyn and Lise will discuss the dangers of isolation and why it's so important to have a thrive tribe of friends, family, or both. They will also discuss potential strategies to consider that can help you build your community. If you or someone you know is struggling with loneliness and isolation, you won't want to miss this show!
From Stress to Spark; A Naturopathic Approach to Optimizing Women’s Libido
In this episode of Five to Thrive Live, Dr. Katie Stage, ND, RH (AGH), FABNG shares an evidence-informed and compassionate approach to understanding and supporting female libido. From root causes and relationship dynamics to the latest in naturopathic and botanical therapies, this conversation will help reframe and restore sexual vitality naturally.
Creating an Effective Cancer Recovery Plan
At Five to Thrive Live we are passionate about cancer survivorship. On this show, Karolyn talks with cancer recovery expert Nathan Handley, MD, who is the Director of the Integrative Cancer Recovery Program at the Marcus Institute of Integrative Health at Jefferson Health in Pennsylvania. Dr. Handley will describe his focus on integrative oncology and how he creates effective recovery plans for his patients.
Is There a Place for Natural Medicine?
Rapid Fire Ways to Create New Health Behaviors in the New Year
On this show Lise and Karolyn go back and forth with their favorite strategies to focus on when trying to create new health behaviors that stick. They will address the five to thrive key aspects of health: diet, movement, rejuvenation, environment, and spirit. If you are looking to make sustainable health behavior changes this year, you won't want to miss this show. Be sure to have a pen and paper on hand to take notes!
Herbal Profile: Saffron
Periodically, Karolyn is going to bring in an expert to profile an important herb or nutrient. On this show, she talks with herbal expert and naturopathic physician Dr. Patricia Gaines about saffron. Dr. Gains will describe the health benefits of saffron and other important details. Saffron is quickly becoming a "go-to" herb for mental health and more. Dr. Gaines is the Chair of the Botanical Medicine Department and a supervising physician at Sonoran University Medical Center. Listen in and learn from a highly trained expert about saffron.
Inflammation’s Edge: CIRS, Cancer, and the Hidden Connection
On this episode of Five to Thrive Live, we will discuss Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome, or CIRS. This is a complex, often-misunderstood condition in which the immune system stays stuck in a chronic, damaging inflammatory state. With our guest, Dr. Eric Dorninger, we will explore the basics of CIRS and examine emerging science on how chronic inflammation may influence cancer risk and progression.
Is This the New Frontier in Personalized Cancer Therapy?
Have you heard of intratumoral bacteria? If you haven't, you may want to listen to this podcast because this just could be the next big advancement when it comes to cancer treatment. On this show, Karolyn talks with one of her favorite guests, Dr. Tina Kaczor, who is a highly respected naturopathic oncologist who has devoted her professional career to helping people diagnosed with cancer. Dr. Kaczor will describe what intratumoral bacteria is and how it can impact cancer development, progression, and treatment response. If you're interested in cutting edge information about cancer care, you won't want to miss this show!
Beyond the Cheer: An Honest Conversation on Holiday Mental Health
On this episode of Five to Thrive Live, we will navigate the stresses of the Holidays. While Holidays can be joyful, they can also be stressful. In this episode, our guest, Dr. Ellen Melton, a licensed professional Counselor, shares how an integrative, whole-person approach can help you stay centered, care for your mental health, and truly enjoy the season.
Self-Care Suggestions for Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) can be challenging to treat; however, when effective self-care strategies are employed, there is better disease management and higher quality of life. On this show, Karolyn talks with gastrointestinal expert and educator Mark Davis, ND, about how people with IBD can better manage their condition. Dr. Davis specializes in the treatment of IBD and also teaches other healthcare professionals about the value of an integrative approach to IBD treatment and self-care.
Ayurveda: Modern Applications of a Healing Tradition
On this episode of Five to Thrive Live, our guest, Amita Nathwani will explain what Auyurveda is and how this ancient form of healing can be used to optimize health and manage disease. We will explore how the principles of Ayurveda are woven into all of its applications – from yoga, nutrition, breathwork to herbal medicine.
The Healing Power of Rituals
The holidays are often filled with a variety of rituals but why are rituals so important to so many of us and do they positively influence our health? On this show, Karolyn and Lise will dig into the science of rituals. Whether they come during times of celebration, loss, or other important life transitions, rituals can have transformative healing powers. Learn more on this episode with Lise and Karolyn.
Effective Ways to Protect and Enhance Mood and Mental Health
As we approach the hectic holiday season and beyond, protecting and enhancing our mental health can become a top priority. On this show, Karolyn talks with Karen Todd who is known as The Supplement Dietitian. Karen has been on the show before and always provides an informative and practical perspective when it comes to health and dietary supplements. Her goal is to help people navigate the world of nutrition and supplements with confidence and clarity. If your mood is on your mind, you won't want to miss this show!




















