#209 Advanced Healing and Prevention Techniques with Stem Cells and Peptides
Release Date: 01/22/2026
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...
info_outlineHart2Heart 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,...
info_outlineHart2Heart 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...
info_outlineHart2Heart 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...
info_outlineHart2Heart 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....
info_outlineHart2Heart 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...
info_outlineHart2Heart 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...
info_outlineHart2Heart 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...
info_outlineHart2Heart 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...
info_outlineHart2Heart 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_outlineMost 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, emphasizing the importance of blood supply, proper diagnosis, and innovative therapies. Additionally, they explore the benefits and applications of various peptides, including BPC 157, TB 500, and MotC, for enhancing healing, anti-aging, and overall health. Dr. Morse also addresses the significance of nutrition and detoxification in maintaining optimal health and preventing injuries.
Dr. Jesse Morse is a Miami-based, double board-certified physician in Family and Sports Medicine who specializes in regenerative medicine, injury recovery, and longevity. Since shifting from traditional sports medicine in 2020, he has focused on non-surgical approaches to tendon and ligament injuries using therapies like PRP, stem-cell–based treatments, exosomes, and peptides, alongside functional and anti-aging strategies centered on mitochondrial health, immune support, toxin reduction, and personalized recovery—helping everyone from active adults to high-performance athletes restore function and prevent major injuries like Achilles tears while educating widely online.
Connect with him on:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjessemorse/ — Sports medicine, regenerative medicine & insights
Linktree (aggregated links to socials & resources): https://linktr.ee/DrJesseMorse
Supplements, Compounds & Peptides
Collagen (protein / connective tissue support):
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507922/
Vitamin C (collagen activation / antioxidant):
https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminC-HealthProfessional/
Creatine (muscle & mitochondrial support):
https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Creatine-HealthProfessional/
BPC-157 (peptide – tendon & gut healing):
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8504390/
TB-500 / Thymosin Beta-4 (peptide – tissue repair):
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22674782/
GHK-Cu (copper peptide – skin, joints, stem-cell signaling):
https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/GHK-Cu
MOTS-c (mitochondrial peptide):
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25174616/
SS-31 / Elamipretide (mitochondrial peptide):
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29515116/
Thymosin Alpha-1 (immune modulation peptide):
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8367996/
LL-37 (antimicrobial / immune peptide):
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15184378/
5-Amino-1MQ (NNMT inhibitor / fat loss):
https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/5-Amino-1MQ
N-Acetylcysteine (NAC – liver & detox support):
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537183/
Glutathione (antioxidant / detox):
https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Glutathione-HealthProfessional/
NAD⁺ / NMN / NR (mitochondrial & anti-aging support):
NMN: https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Nicotinamide-mononucleotide
NR: https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Nicotinamide-riboside
Regenerative & Injection Therapies
PRP – Platelet-Rich Plasma:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6990861/
Bone Marrow–Derived Stem Cells (BMAC):
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4630382/
Adipose-Derived Stem Cells:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6416130/
Amniotic / Placental Tissue Products:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8124018/
Exosomes (cell signaling vesicles):
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8465611/
Ultrasound-Guided Injections:
https://radiopaedia.org/articles/musculoskeletal-ultrasound-guided-injection
Needle Tenotomy (scar-tissue disruption):
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30428129/
Detox, Blood & Environmental Interventions
Sauna (heat detox & cardiovascular benefit):
https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/saunas-and-your-health
Binders – Modified Citrus Pectin:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5452227/
GI Detox / Toxin Binders (general concept):
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3654245/
Heavy Metal Chelation (DMPS concept):
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12198644/
Mercury Toxicity:
https://www.cdc.gov/mercury/index.html
Microplastics in Humans:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7068600/
EBOO Therapy (ozone-based blood filtration):
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36681461/
Therapeutic Plasma Exchange (TPE):
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557561/
INUSpheresis (advanced plasma filtration):
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37324197/
Medications & Drug Classes Mentioned
Corticosteroids (Prednisone – tendon risk):
https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601102.html
Fluoroquinolone Antibiotics (tendon rupture risk):
https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-updates-fluoroquinolone-antibiotics
GLP-1 Agonists (Semaglutide / Tirzepatide / Retatrutide discussion):
Semaglutide: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36421543/
Tirzepatide: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35220624/
Nutrition & Food-Related Mentions
Protein Intake & Muscle Health:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6566799/
American Gluten vs European Wheat:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8799814/
Seed Oils & Inflammation (discussion topic):
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6196963/
Dairy & Inflammation (contextual mention):
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5122229/
Key Mechanisms & Concepts
Poor Blood Supply in Achilles Tendon (Watershed Zone):
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17021202/
Mitochondrial Dysfunction & Aging:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4843959/
Stem Cells as “Medicinal Signaling Cells”:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25784997/
Show Notes
00:00 Introduction to Exosomes and Stem Cells
01:01 Dr. Morse's Background and Transition to Regenerative Medicine
02:03 Achilles Tendon Tears: Causes and Prevention
05:02 Preventative Measures and Treatments for Achilles Injuries
10:26 The Role of Nutrition in Tendon Health
12:53 Peptides and Their Impact on Tendon Health
15:50 Stem Cells: Misconceptions and Applications
20:52 Comparing Stem Cell Sources and Their Potency
29:52 The Controversy of International Stem Cell Treatments
34:04 Cleaning Toxins from Your Blood
34:19 The Toxic Burden in Our Environment
35:57 Practical Detox Methods
37:47 Mercury and Heavy Metal Testing
44:47 The Problem with American Gluten
46:49 Underrated Peptides for Health
53:42 Growth Hormone and Anti-Aging
01:03:34 Advanced Blood Cleaning Techniques
01:04:51 Conclusion and Contact Information
The Hart2Heart podcast is hosted by family physician Dr. Michael Hart, who is dedicated to cutting through the noise and uncovering the most effective strategies for optimizing health, longevity, and peak performance.
This podcast dives deep into evidence-based approaches to hormone balance, peptides, sleep optimization, nutrition, psychedelics, supplements, exercise protocols, leveraging sunlight, and de-prescribing pharmaceuticals — using medications only when absolutely necessary.
Beyond health science, we explore the intersection of public health and politics, exposing how policy decisions shape our health landscape and what actionable steps people can take to reclaim control over their well-being.
Guests range from out-of-the-box thinking physicians such as Dr. Casey Means (author of "Good Energy") and Dr. Roger Sehult (Medcram lectures) to public health experts such as Dr. Jay Bhattacharya (Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Dr. Marty Mckary
(Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and high-profile names such as
Zuby and Mark Sisson (Primal Blueprint and Primal Kitchen).
If you’re ready to take control of your health and performance, this podcast is for you.We cut through the jargon and deliver practical, no-BS advice that you can implement in your daily life, empowering you to make positive changes for your well-being.
Connect with Dr. Mike Hart
Instagram: @drmikehart
Twitter: @drmikehart
Facebook: @drmikehart