#187 Blending Naturopathy with Professional Fighting: Dr. Sarah Shell's Unique Journey
Release Date: 08/07/2025
#210 A Personal Journey: My Decision to Quit THC
Hart2Heart with Dr. Mike Hart
In this podcast episode, the speaker shares his personal journey of quitting THC, explaining his reasons, the gradual process over several years, and the impacts on his life. He recounts his history with THC, from early recreational use to daily dependence for sleep aid during medical school and residency. The speaker emphasizes that he does not oppose cannabis, recognizing its medicinal value, but wanted to overcome his dependency. He details his method of reducing THC use through vaping and CBD alternatives, ultimately leading to his last use in January 2025. Alongside his personal story, he...
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#209 Advanced Healing and Prevention Techniques with Stem Cells and Peptides
Hart2Heart with Dr. Mike Hart
Most people think they go into your body and make all new tissue… but in actuality, they are a delivery mechanism of growth factors. I call them the ultimate traffic cop. In this episode, the host converses with Dr. Jesse Morse, a physician specializing in regenerative and anti-aging medicine. They delve into the intricacies of stem cells and their various sources, including bone marrow, fat, and donor tissue. Dr. Morse highlights the role of exosomes and growth factors in the healing process. The discussion also focuses on the prevention and treatment of Achilles tendon tears,...
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#208 The Real Science Behind Detoxification: Liver, Kidneys, and Gut Health Explained
Hart2Heart with Dr. Mike Hart
Most “detox” advice focuses on cleanses and quick fixes — but real detoxification is a constant, biological process your body runs every day. In this solo episode, the host breaks down how detoxification actually works, starting with what counts as a “toxin” (including hormones and environmental chemicals) and how the body packages them for elimination. You’ll learn the key roles of the liver, kidneys, and gut — and why detox can succeed in the liver but fail in the intestines, especially when certain gut bacteria produce enzymes like β-glucuronidase that can send toxins back...
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#207 Mastering Hydration: The Essential Guide to Water, Electrolytes, and Optimal Performance
Hart2Heart with Dr. Mike Hart
What if your “healthy” water intake is still quietly hurting your performance? In this solo episode, Dr. Mike breaks down hydration from a performance-first perspective — how dehydration affects cognition and physical output, why “8 glasses a day” is an oversimplified myth, and how to personalize your intake based on body size, activity level, diet, environment, and medications. He walks through practical guidelines (including 30–35 ml/kg/day), how to use urine + thirst cues without overcomplicating it, and why timing matters (especially around workouts, sauna use, and sleep). A...
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#206 How to Fix High Blood Pressure (Without Guessing)
Hart2Heart with Dr. Mike Hart
In this solo episode, Dr. Mike breaks down everything you need to know about blood pressure, why it’s so commonly misunderstood, how to measure it correctly, and what optimal numbers really look like. He explains why 120/80 isn’t ideal for everyone, why blood pressure variability can be more dangerous than steady high readings, and how sleep, stress, and undiagnosed sleep apnea quietly drive hypertension. The episode walks through a clear, practical framework for managing blood pressure using lifestyle interventions first, followed by supplements, and medications only when necessary. Dr....
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#205 Stop Nighttime Peeing
Hart2Heart with Dr. Mike Hart
In this solo episode, Dr. Mike discusses the common issue of nocturia, where individuals frequently wake up at night to urinate, which disrupts sleep. The episode covers the root causes including sleep apnea, enlarged prostate, and overactive bladder, and dives into the roles of antidiuretic hormone (ADH) and atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP). It provides a comprehensive guide on addressing nocturia through behavioral modifications such as fluid restriction and sleep hygiene, supplements like pumpkin seed extract and beta-sitosterol, and pharmaceuticals including Desmopressin and...
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#204 Resetting Dopamine for Monogamy
Hart2Heart with Dr. Mike Hart
In this solo episode, Dr. Mike delves into the complex relationship between dopamine, romantic relationships, and the Coolidge Effect. The discussion highlights why men often feel the need for a new partner due to a desensitization of dopamine and how our overstimulated lifestyles contribute to this issue. The host explores the impact of modern habits on dopamine levels, the importance of boredom for resetting dopamine sensitivity, and the role of anticipation in maintaining desire. Practical solutions like dopamine resets, engaging in effort-based activities, and ensuring personal growth and...
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#203 Rethinking 10k Steps
Hart2Heart with Dr. Mike Hart
In this episode, Dr. Mike Hart delves into the origins and contemporary relevance of the 10,000 steps rule. He discusses the latest research outcomes from a massive meta-analysis comparing daily step counts from 2,000 to 12,000 steps and their associated health benefits. Listeners will learn about the significant reductions in mortality, cardiovascular disease, cancer mortality, dementia, depression, and type 2 diabetes risk achieved by increasing daily steps. The episode also provides insights into the importance of breaking up sedentary periods, the physiological differences between various...
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#202 Better Alternatives To Metformin
Hart2Heart with Dr. Mike Hart
In this solo episode, the host discusses the effects of metformin, berberine, and dihydroberberine on exercise adaptation and longevity. While metformin is known for its longevity benefits and is popular in the biohacking community, it has been shown to significantly reduce exercise adaptations and VO2 max gains. Berberine, a supplement with similar effects to metformin, is easier to obtain but still has some negative effects on exercise and significant GI side effects. The episode introduces dihydroberberine (DHB), a compound with fewer GI issues and less impact on exercise adaptation, making...
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#201 Building True Mental Toughness with Tony Ricci
Hart2Heart with Dr. Mike Hart
In this episode of the Heart to Heart podcast, Dr. Mike Hart chats with Tony Ricci, an athletic performance and mental health coach for athletes. Tony shares his fascinating journey from studying exercise physiology to working with elite athletes like MMA fighter Chris Weidman. They discuss the critical impact of mental resilience on athletic performance, practical strategies for mental and physical training, and bridging the gap between nutrition, conditioning, and mental skills training. Additionally, the conversation touches on the role of technology like HRV and sleep tracking in athlete...
info_outlineIn this episode of the Heart to Heart podcast, Dr. Mike Hart interviews Dr. Sarah Shell, a naturopathic doctor and a professional fighter. Dr. Shell delves into the distinct dual aspects of her career and explains what it means to be a naturopathic medical doctor. She highlights the comprehensive approach she uses, combining conventional medicine with naturopathic treatments, emphasizing the role of lifestyle, alternative medicine, and the importance of diet and fiber. Dr. Shell discusses her insights into chronic diseases, the overlooked significance of fiber in diet, and her routines combining rigorous physical activity and medical practice. She also explores her future fights and ambitions in professional fighting.
Guest Bio and Links
Dr. Sarah Shell is a licensed naturopathic medical doctor and professional combat sports athlete, currently ranked #2 in the world in the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC). As one of the only physicians in the world actively competing in professional fighting, Dr. Shell brings a rare dual expertise in both cutting-edge integrative medicine and elite-level athletic performance.
In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Shell uses her athletic platform to challenge health myths, promote metabolic literacy, and inspire others to reclaim their physical and mental strength. Whether it’s in the exam room or the arena, she brings grit, scientific rigor, and a deep commitment to truth.
Follow her on Instagram: @dr.sarahshell
Verywell Health – The Health Benefits of Dietary Fiber
Springer: Dose-Response Meta-Analysis on Fiber & Mortality
Show Notes:
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(00:00) – Welcome back to the Hart2Heart Podcast with Dr. Mike Hart
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(00:30) – Unique background: doctor and fighter
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(02:00) – What is naturopathic medicine?
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(05:00) – Fighting career highlights (BKFC)
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(08:00) – How she balances medicine and fighting
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(09:00) – Why physical activity matters for doctors
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(13:30) – The role of fiber in preventing disease
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(21:00) – Medical education: what needs to change
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(27:00) – Detoxing: why it’s crucial
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(28:30) – How to maximize your sauna sessions
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(32:00) – Sauna and heart health benefits
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(34:00) – Why doctors should embrace patient research
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(36:30) – Health fads that don't work
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(38:00) – Fiber: the missing link in modern medicine
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(47:30) – Vitamin D and other underrated nutrients
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Dr. Mike Hart is a Cannabis Physician and Lifestyle Strategist. In April 2014, Dr. Hart became the first physician in London, Ontario to open a cannabis clinic. While Dr. Hart continues to treat patients at his clinic, his primary focus has shifted to correcting the medical cannabis educational gap that exists in the medical community.
Connect on social with Dr. Mike Hart:
Social Links:
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Instagram: @drmikehart
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Twitter: @drmikehart
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Facebook: @drmikehart