Green Docs
“Green Docs” is a podcast dedicated to helping expectant mothers and the world at large understand how our changing environment, and climate change specifically, is threatening pregnancies and our general health. You’ll hear from experts in the field about the latest medical and environmental advances - all while being entertained - and you’ll come away knowing more and feeling much better about our collective future.
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S2E15 - “Mother of Dragons” with Guest: Kyndell DeNicola
05/09/2024
S2E15 - “Mother of Dragons” with Guest: Kyndell DeNicola
Description: That’s right, there’s a new Mother of Dragons- many, in fact. This episode the Green Docs honors expectant mothers in this Chinese "Year of the Dragon" with a special guest – Nate’s wife, Kyndell, who is expecting their little fire-breather this summer. She talks about what it’s like to be married to an Ob/Gyn (her OB FOB), how to navigate the new digital marketplace for pregnancy and parenthood, and the best time to discuss environmental topics with moms-to-be. Sneak preview: it’s not at 6 AM before coffee. Nate and Bruce steer you through the latest headlines your OB might have missed: like what it really means to be born under the auspices of the dragon zodiac; dissecting new analysis on how the United States truly ranks among global maternal health (probably better than you think); and good news for moms who want to avoid that sugary diabetes test – a new gene study that could make us sour on the sweetener challenge. Tune in to the Season 2 Finale for all this plus Bruce’s recommendation to Nate and Kyndell for a baby name: Brucina? A little dragonian. Show Links Pending What does it mean to be a “Mother of Dragons” per the Smithsonian: Risk of maternal mortality in the US may have been overestimated relative to other countries: A new, improved way to make an early diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes:
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S2E14 - “Earth Day” - FIGO Podcast
04/21/2024
S2E14 - “Earth Day” - FIGO Podcast
In this episode we’re joining forces with FIGO – the international federation of gynecology and obstetrics; basically like the UN for Ob/Gyn – to bring you a special earth day episode. We’ll be hearing from voices around the globe – like Dr. Ditas Decena from the Philippines, Dr. Jim Zhang from China, and Rashmi Joglekar from UCSF – on what earth day means to them, and what in the world it has to do with family health. Links: EV sales slowing: Redfin air pollution with listings: A more nuanced approach to Divestment strategies: PFAS chemical exposure and bad birth outcomes: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2805449
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S2E13 “Gator-Aid” with Dr. Joel Gator Warsh
03/28/2024
S2E13 “Gator-Aid” with Dr. Joel Gator Warsh
How much screen time is safe for your kids? Does it really put them at risk for depression and anxiety? And what’s the story with encapsulating- and eating- your placenta…? In this episode we bite into all those questions with Dr. Joel Gator Warsh, or as you may know him on instagram, “Dr. Gator.” He brings his expertise as a Pediatrician, Integrative Medicine physician, and author of the book “Parenting At Your Child’s Pace”, to give you the incisive answer to these and other pressing questions parents face today. You might be surprised by his take on social media. Nate and Bruce dissect the latest headlines: how a magic marker accident made Trader Joe’s recall thousands of pounds of their popular chicken soup dumplings, the rapid benefits of eating an organic diet, and unsettling data on whether kids actually spend less time outdoors than prison inmates- there’s a reason they’re called the “Anxious Generation.” Speaking of anxiety, the guys share their strategies for college basketball’s March Madness tournament – and why Nate’s dog, Dagny, may be the leader of the pack. Until next time, ‘later gator! Show Links: Trader Joe’s Chicken Dumpling recall Environmental Working Group’s 2024 “Dirty Dozen” report Study: better brain development for kids eating organic food Kids spend less time outdoors then prison inmates Richard Louv, author of Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature Deficit Disorder Dr. Joel “Gator” Warsh, author of Parenting at Your Child’s Pace Study: chronic conditions increasing in children Rising rates of diabetes and obesity in US kids https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/health/2022/12/30/youth-diabetes-surge-cdc-study/10966164002/ Study: rising rates of ADHD in children: increased recognition or overdiagnosis? Safe medication use while breastfeeding (CDC) Social media and mental health: a collaborative review (New York University) Dr. Jonathan Haight, author of The Anxious Generation Project TENDR Mocktails: Key ingredient: Gatorade
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S2E12 Global IVF Practice, Irish Twins and Guinness!
03/14/2024
S2E12 Global IVF Practice, Irish Twins and Guinness!
Irish eyes are smiling this St. Patrick’s Day as the Green Docs share a pint with Dr. Edgar Mocanu, a Dublin-based fertility specialist and president of the International Federation of Fertility Societies. He brings his unique global perspective to the fertility question on everyone’s mind: what on earth is going on in Alabama? The answer might surprise you. Dr. Mocanu also weighs in on the latest trends: how diet can improve fertility, why we worry about jacuzzis and getting pregnant, and how to avoid hormone-disrupting chemicals. There’s a reason they say geniuses pick green. Nate and Bruce unpack the latest news: what you haven’t heard about the Alabama decision on embryos and personhood; how three parents can sometimes be better than two; and the shocking reunion of twins separated at birth and then reconnected nineteen years later via a TikTok video. All worthy of an Irish blessing! You’ll also learn about Nate’s recent undercover mission in Washington DC, and see if Bruce can pass the tests of a true Irishman? Slainte! Alabama rules frozen embryos are children Three’s company two: UK delivered its first child conceived from … 3 parents Twins separated (actually stolen) at birth are reunited by a TikTok video Pesticides and sperm quality More Joy campaign Microplastics in placentas Mocktails: Zero-Proof Guinness How to pour a Guinness
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S2E11 Trust Your Gut: Dietary Tips from a Health Guru
02/29/2024
S2E11 Trust Your Gut: Dietary Tips from a Health Guru
Show Notes: What is “integrative medicine” and why has it gotten so popular? This episode explores this approach to illness – and boosting wellness- with Dr. Edison de Mello, the founder and head of the Akasha Center for Integrative Medicine in Santa Monica, California. As the author of a book called Bloated, Dr. de Mello shares his views on the many connections of our gut microbiome to our overall health as well as the benefits and risks of vaginal “seeding” of newborns to help boost their immune systems. Speaking of the gut flora, Nate and Bruce start off with new research that shows how even light exercise can boost their health, helping protect us in the process. The guys also share new evidence of a “flavor window” for the successful introduction of healthy foods to babies, potentially preventing many food fights down the line. They also answer some listener questions and share the story of Ai-Hin, the clever Chinese panda that faked pregnancy to get better food and air conditioning- and who can blame her? Show Links: Microbiome and exercise UCLA Health: exercise and gut flora health “Flavor window”: how to get your kids to eat vegetables Giant Panda fakes pregnancy to receive nicer food and round-the-clock care Alcohol and sexual function in women NIH National Center for Integrative Health definition of integrative health Gut Microbiome facts 2023 study of spore-based probiotics and gut/skin health American Museum of Natural History: 99% of our unique genes are microbial, not human Dr. de Mello’s book, Bloated Dunkin Donuts with Ben Affleck, Matt Damon and J-lo Mocktails: Virgin Caipirinha - Tudo Bem! Health Lime: Mint: Rosemary: Thyme: INGREDIENTS 1 lime, cut into wedges 1.5 teaspoons white, granulated sugar 1 ounce Seedlip Garden 108 2 ounces Lyre's White Cane Spirit DIRECTIONS In a rocks glass, muddle the lime wedges with sugar and bitters. Fill the glass with ice, add both spirits, and stir to chill. Garnish with a lime wheel. RECIPE NOTE You’ll need some time and a little muscle when muddling the limes. The goal is to extract the juice, but also to get the sugar into the lime peel, releasing the fruit's aromatic oils. MAKE IT MINDFULLY LOW ALCOHOL Want to session some Caipirinhas all afternoon without getting too smashed? Try mixing 1 ounce of an alcoholic white rum (or cachaça if you have it!) with 2 ounces of Seedlip Garden. Health Lime: vit c and antioxidants; helps improve iron absorption Mint: auntie nausea Rosemary: NOT as a supplement in pregnancy; improve mood Thyme: reduce bloating
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S2E10 Lead Expert Spills the Tea on Stanley Cups
02/15/2024
S2E10 Lead Expert Spills the Tea on Stanley Cups
Show Notes Have you ever wondered how consumer goods get recalled? In this episode the Green Docs spill the tea with Tamara Rubin, the woman behind many of those recalls related to lead and food toxicity – including most recently calling out Stanley Cup Tumblers. You may have seen Saturday Night Live satirizing the safety of these “Big Dumb Cups.” Tamara brings her experience as the mother of two children with lead poisoning to drive her passion as an activist and filmmaker – and as the “Lead Safe Mama” she delivers everything you need to know about protecting you and your family from toxics at home. Bruce and Nate also review the rise in premature births across the US and share a little-known risk factor you can avoid. They also weigh in on the "take your shoes off at the door" controversy; or as Sex and the City called it, "a woman's right to shoes." Finally, they identify yet another benefit of garlic – hint: it involves removing lead. They even incorporate garlic into a wellness mocktail helpfully named, “you don’t have to take your cloves off.” And if you thought that ingredient was surprising – wait until you hear what they have to say about giraffe milk. Show Links Stanley Cup tumblers with lead Preterm birth rates rising in the US Should you take your shoes off at the door? Tamara Rubin’s website: leadsafemama.com or tamararubin.com Saturday Night Live’s “Big dumb cups” Tamara’s lead documentary, MisLEAD Federal guidelines for homes with lead-based paint (Housing and Urban Development) Lead-safe renovation guidelines for homeowners (EPA) Preterm birth and air pollution Preterm birth and heat Our research into both air pollution and heat and preterm birth Mocktails We Don't Have to Take Our Cloves Off garlic mocktail: https://blackrestaurantweeks.com/we-dont-have-to-take-our-cloves-off-roasted-garlic-cocktail/ Garlicky Citrus Non-Alcoholic Bloody Mary: If you like your mocktails to have a little bit of kick to them, then you will love the Garlicky Citrus Non-Alcoholic Bloody Mary. Since this recipe contains tomato juice, you can receive nutritional benefits from it. Tomato juice is said to be a great of vitamin C, vitamin B, and potassium. To discover how this mocktail can benefit your health, follow these steps to make it! To make this mocktail, you will need: 3 cloves of , roasted Drizzle of olive oil 1 tablespoon of horseradish 1 cup of tomato juice ½ of a jalapeno 1 orange slice Half of a lemon 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce Optional: garnish with a celery stick Directions: In a small pan with a drizzle of olive oil, roast your under medium heat until slightly brown in color. Muddle together your roasted garlic, orange slice, lemon, jalapeno, and horseradish in a shaker. Add in your tomato juice and Worcestershire sauce and then shake. Add ice to a class and pour in the drink. Garnish with a celery stick if desired. Enjoy!
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S2E9 Just The Tips: Valentine’s Day Health Guide
02/01/2024
S2E9 Just The Tips: Valentine’s Day Health Guide
In this Valentine’s Day episode, the Green Docs review toxic-free romance. Yes, it can happen. You’ll learn how couples, including expectant couples, can enjoy a swoon-worthy evening without any extra toxic chemicals – from chocolate and sweets, safe foods to enjoy, flowers, spa days, and other – ahem – “lotions.” Plus, have you ever wondered if safe sex is actually safe in pregnancy? Later in the episode we’ll switch it up and talk with a co-founder of a premium non-alcoholic beverage company, Something and Nothing, and get some rose-themed mocktails to cap the night. Nate and Bruce review the latest headlines: France’s government extends parental leave as they witness their lowest birth rate since WWII; the International Pasta Organization (yes, real organization) reports that the happiness from pasta exceeds that from music and sports; and could there really be contraception for men? Also – hear how Nate got to talk cars with Matt Farah, Bruce made another trip around the sun, and the podcast reached 3,000 downloads. Many balloons! Show Links France to reform parental leave after births hit lowest since WWII: Happiness from eating pasta is greater than what you get from music and sports: https://www.foodandwine.com/eating-pasta-is-scientifically-proven-to-make-you-feel-better-8548017 Gel injected into scrotum could be next male contraceptive: Chocolate- what to know: . https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/chocolate-when-pregnant#recommendations Sweets to have and to avoid: . Slippery stuff- what to know: Sex during pregnancy: enjoy! Mocktails: health perks of aloe vera juice: Mocktails New Leaf 1.5 oz of the kaffir lime leaf seed lip .0.75 ounce cucumber water (cucumbers and water blended and then strained 0.75 ounce lime juice 0.25 ounce rich simple Shake together, double strain into a double rocks glass with fresh ice. Top with ginger beer. Garnish with a lime leaf from the infusion. Bright Eyes, Bushy Tails 1 ounce raspberry puree 2 ounce lemon 0.5 ounce simple Shake and then pour over ice. Top with soda water and garnish with a mint sprig.
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S2E8 Climate, Health, & Rock’n’Roll
01/18/2024
S2E8 Climate, Health, & Rock’n’Roll
Congressman Mike Levin joins the Green Docs to talk about climate, health, and yes rock’n’roll. Roughly in that order. He explains how his early work in Southern California’s clean energy sector has informed a prolific career in Congress – one that has delivered successful, bipartisan environmental policies that improve the health of pregnancies and families nationwide. He shares what members of Congress do for fun on rare days off: turns out they like Pearl Jam too. And he gives a candid look behind the scenes of campaign finance; where the real action happens. We’ll jump to the punchline: follow the money. Nate and Bruce review the latest news: why mom’s literally carry their children in their hearts and minds forever; how new California laws are making companies earn their “eco-friendly” labels, or pay up; and why even champagne is at risk due to climate change. Let’s stop that from bubbling over! They’re joined by a guest mixologist from Rep. Levin’s California 49th district who has ginger and peppermint mocktails for anyone who feels nauseous thinking about Congress. Or if you’re pregnant. Plus, you’ll never guess why Bruce suddenly has more energy in the new year! Show Links: The Most Mysterious Cells in Our Bodies Don’t Belong to Us - California’s new climate laws - This beloved New Year’s Eve ‘pop’ could soon disappear because of changing weather - Cottage cheese eggs - Las Vegas MSG Sphere immersive experience “Postcard from Earth” by Darren Aronofsky - 32 Million US Births Link Air Pollution to Preterm Birth, Low Birthweight: Original Research by Dr. Bruce Bekkar and Dr. Nathaniel DeNicola - Retired coal plants and decreased risk of preterm birth - Taylor Swift and Notre Dame: The undoubtable truth of “Champagne Problems” - See Eddie Vedder talk climate change with ISS astronauts in Earth Day video - Dave Groll on Christopher Walken and Foo Fighters! - First EV to lead global vehicle sales - Q&A With George Barker, Owner of Mayfield in San Juan Capistrano - Mocktails: New Leaf 1.5 oz of the kaffir lime leaf seed lip .0.75 ounce cucumber water (cucumbers and water blended and then strained 0.75 ounce lime juice 0.25 ounce rich simple Shake together, double strain into a double rocks glass with fresh ice. Top with ginger beer. Garnish with a lime leaf from the infusion. Bright Eyes, Bushy Tails 1 ounce raspberry puree 2 ounce lemon 0.5 ounce simple Shake and then pour over ice. Top with soda water and garnish with a mint sprig.
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S2E7 Not Your Grandfather’s Dry January
01/04/2024
S2E7 Not Your Grandfather’s Dry January
Description: To kick off 2024 the Green Docs raise a glass with Dan Scott, a master mixologist in Los Angeles, California and founder of his own craft beverage catering company, The Whaling Club. With over a decade of experience blending spirits in New York, DC, and now LA, Dan has served some of Hollywood’s brightest stars – and here he’s sharing custom mocktail recipes just for us. Because as you’ll learn, this is not your Grandfather’s Dry January. Nate and Bruce break down the headlines: the ozone hole is getting… smaller, California recycles champagne bottles, and Paris’ waterway reopens to swimmers. In-Seine! Throughout the episode they share New Year’s Resolutions from past guests including: Jeanne Conry, Kristin Lyerly, and Alex Rivest; they add a few of their own too. Plus, who can help Nate figure out what fish to order at a restaurant? Imbibe a cup o’kindness with the Green Docs to greet 2024: restorative, informative, slightly less pejorative. Cheers! Show Links Ozone hole is closing - Starting in 2024, Californians can redeem empty wine and liquor containers for cash - https://abc7news.com/california-beverage-container-recycling-program-wine-liquor/14229657/#:~:text=containers%20for%20cash.-,The%20state%20has%20added%20wine%20and%20liquor%20to%20the%20state%27s,coolers%2C%20or%20distilled%20spirit%20coolers. Seine cleaned up for the Olympics - Soccernomics - Mercury in fish: Wikipedia - What is dealcoholized wine? - Is recycling a waste? Here’s the answer from a plastics expert before you ditch the effort - Fancy Free Liquor - The Whaling Club - Lyer’s alcohol free spirits - How is glass recycled? - 50 Recycling facts - Benefits of cutting down on alcohol - New Year’s Resolutions Statistics 2024 - Mocktails Snow Day 2 oz tequila 3/4 oz coconut cream 3/4 oz fresh lime juice 1/4 oz orgeat syrup (60 brix) 1/4 oz cinnamon syrup (50 brix) Combine ingredients in a glass, mound with pebble ice, and garnish with cinnamon. Sandpiper 2 oz (alcohol free) mezcal 3/4 oz fresh lime juice 3/4 oz agave syrup (50 brix) 1/2 oz organic mango puree Combine ingredients in a glass, mound with pebble ice, and garnish with angostura bitters & a lime wheel.
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S2E6 Christmas Recipes with a Culinary Medicine Doc
12/21/2023
S2E6 Christmas Recipes with a Culinary Medicine Doc
Description: In this holiday finale, the Green Docs review Christmas movies, more seasonal mocktails, and healthy holiday recipes with Angie Neison – a Family Medicine doctor sharing her unique training in lifestyle and culinary medicine. She gives you step-by-step recipes for hearty vegetable accouterments, green & red Christmas pasta with grated cheese “snow”, and fresh takes on traditional tamales. She even designed a holiday mocktail just for this show! You’ll want to take notes to create your own “Herb Tea-zzy.” Nate and Bruce cover the latest headlines: Merriam-Webster’s word of the year for 2023 (can you guess?), why there’s so much excitement over motorcycle taxis called “boda-bodas”, and new insights into the environment that created Tiny Tim’s famous illness. You’ll learn why the cures from Dickensian London are just as relevant for the challenges ahead in the new year. Plus, Nate reveals his secret to the perfect Cacio e Pepe! Tune in for this 2023 finale and keep the holiday magic simmering into 2024. Show Links Merriam-Webster’s 2023 word of the year is the real deal Boda Bodas reducing world oil consumption Environmental Factors in Tiny Tim’s Near-Fatal Illness Why traditional Cacio e Pepe is so hard to perfectly execute Tamales and the Tamalada: A Christmas Tradition Culinary Medicine Curriculum How Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol Changed the Way the Holiday is Celebrated What is the Feast of the Seven Fishes? Matthew Perry’s ‘Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip’ Performance is Peak Perry Doc Martin star Martin Clunes uses his medical knowledge to stop surgeons performing a “nonsensical” operation on his wife How is Potter In “It’s A Wonderful Life” Able To Go Unpunished For His Theft? Green Docs Christmas Movies & Shows The Man Who Invented Christmas The Feast of the Seven Fishes Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip: The Christmas Show Doc Martin: Christmas Special Mocktails Angie’s Christmas Mocktail: Herb Tea-zzy 3 parts brewed tea (hot or cold) 1 part pomegranate molasses (substitute: date syrup with pomegranate juice) 1 sparkling water Garnish: sprig of rosemary Combine tea and pomegranate molasses in a mixing glass, stir well, and pour into cocktail glass over ice. Finish with a splash of sparkling water. Garnish with rosemary on top.
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Happy Holidays need Healthier Homes
12/07/2023
Happy Holidays need Healthier Homes
Description: In this first of a two-part holiday series the Green Docs share their “Green Docs Gift Guide”, new seasonal mocktails, and ways to look ahead for a healthy, happy New Year. We also take a look back at our generation’s greatest public health emergency, the COVID-19 pandemic, in an interview with America's top public health doc, Dr. Georges Benjamin, executive director of the American Public Health Association. He candidly discusses what went right, what admittedly went wrong, and how we will be more prepared for whatever comes in 2024. Plus, Nate and Bruce can’t believe what Elon Musk just said?! No, not what you’re thinking. Elon dropped a statement even more shocking than his season’s greetings to the advertisers… and he just might be right. They explore how Scandinavian parents are literally getting kids to “chill out,” and they celebrate a new company that totally sucks. In a good way. Tune in for all this and a surprise revelation about Bruce’s winter glow. Yule be glad you did. Show Links Elon Musk interview with Andrew Sorkin Scandinavian kids sleep outside in the cold American Academy of Pediatrics: Infant Sleep Guidance Ways babies benefit from getting outside Benefits of Ice Bath Mocktails Classic Martini: Zero-Proof 2 parts zero-proof gin (episode: ) 1 part vermouth substitute (episode: ) 1 dash orange bitters or substitute (episode: ginger syrup or juice) Garnish: lemon wedge Combine ingredients in a mixing glass and fill with ice. Stir well to chill and strain into a cocktail glass. Twist a piece of lemon peel over the drink and use as garnish. Vitamin C Spritzer: Zero-Proof 2 parts zero-proof spritzer (episode: Kin Euphorics) 2 parts orange juice, preferably fresh-squeezed Garnish: sprig of dill Combine ingredients in a cocktail glass and serve with ice. Place a sprig of dill to use as garnish. Green Docs Gift Guide Sustainable Watch Brands Vaer: solar dive and field watches Original Grain: cases from recycled whiskey barrels Zero-Proof Spirits Soft Spirits Non-Plastic Drink Containers 4Ocean: water bottle Clothing: Organic Cotton, Hemp, Other Patagonia.com Outerknown.com Afends.com Ocean / Sport Eco-friendly wetsuits: Kid's Toys Food & Kitchen Japanese steam toaster oven: less waste Beauty products Eufora RMS Beauty: Osea: https://oseamalibu.com/pages/sustainability
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Healthy Thanksgiving: It’s Hot Stuff-ing
11/21/2023
Healthy Thanksgiving: It’s Hot Stuff-ing
Description: Okay, so you may not have a “healthy” Thanksgiving meal, but with tips from the Green Docs it can at least be less-toxic. The food that is. The dinner conversations are on you. And you’ll have plenty of food-for-thought after listening to our interview with Ashely Ward, an expert in heat policy at Duke University, who teaches us why staying cool is a year-round job. You’ll learn about the latest headlines including which applesauce packs to avoid over concerns about lead toxicity, new “old” techniques for mowing lawns, and can there really be a pregnant woman with twins… in two separate wombs?? Tune in for all this plus some seasonal mocktails using ginger and cranberry. You’ll be grateful you did. Thanks for listening and happy Thanksgiving. Show links: CDC warning about lead in cinnamon applesauce pouches: Lambs “mowing” lawns in North Virginia: Woman pregnant with two babies, in two separate wombs: Duke University Heat Policy Innovation Hub: Heating and cooling assistance for low income citizens: FEMA federal program for resiliency planning funds Community block grants through the Office of Housing and Urban Development Ashley Ward’s radio show: “Climate Thursdays” Heat Index App from NOAA:
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What the Frack: A Case for Leaving Fossils Grounded
11/09/2023
What the Frack: A Case for Leaving Fossils Grounded
Description: What the frack?! That’s what the Green Docs ask Adam Aron, professor of psychology at UC San Diego and author of a new book “The Climate Crisis”, about our current state. Adam’s answer – we’re fracked. Or at least we will be if we don’t start changing our ways and leaving fossil fuels in the ground. He makes a candid and colorful case for why our actions now matter immensely; but also which ones don’t. You’ll learn that “greenwashing” is a real thing, along with other eco terms you probably didn’t know. In the news – Nate and Bruce dig into how both “green” and “brown” economies offer a salve for our current federal deficit. You’ll be amazed by what Japanese researchers are doing with plastic-eating bacteria. And you’ll wonder what the heck is going on in Australia where a low flying helicopter appeared to stir an alligator mating frenzy. Just as Bruce visits the Aussies for a lecture; g’day mate. Ride out the whole episode for a rollercoaster of horror, hubris, and in the end – hope. Show links: Fed deficit and Climate Change connection: Penn Global Climate Finance Workshop: Green vs Brown Assets Bacteria that digests plastic: Low-flying helicopter sparks massive crocodile orgy in Australia The Climate Crisis, by Adam Aron Time Shifter travel app:
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Witch Makeup is Safe for Ghouls & Boys?
10/26/2023
Witch Makeup is Safe for Ghouls & Boys?
Witch Makeup is Safe for Ghouls & Boys? Description: Halloween is spooky enough without having to worry about toxic chemicals in your hair & makeup. To cure this haunting feeling the Green Docs talk with Sonya Talamantes, a professional makeup artist of 20 years, to uncover which types of makeup are best for you and your kids to stay blemish and toxic-free while getting into character, or even just getting out the door each morning. You’ll get practical, professional advice along with helpful apps and DIY recipes for children’s face paint to avoid those ghastly heavy metals. Nate and Bruce recap the latest headlines: France ensures that all new buildings will be equipped with green roofing; fun-flation is coming to a concert near you – if you can afford it; and red dye #3 of Cheetos neon-glow infamy gets banned in California. Nate relays news from Paris about a new toxicity screening for prenatal vitamins, and Bruce tests a Japanese technique for getting the most from your record player. Tune in for this Halloween episode that promises less tricks, more treats. Links: Green roofs in France - “Funflation”: too expensive to have fun - California bans red dye No. 3 among other toxic food additives - Two great new Italian restaurants in La Jolla: Healthline article on makeup/cosmetic safety - FIGO Statement: Screening Prenatal Supplements for Toxic Chemicals and Pollutants - ACOG Committee Opinion: Reducing Prenatal Exposure to Toxic Environmental Exposures - Project TENDR (Targeting Environmental Neuro-Developmental Risk) Consensus Statement - Frenchie Wine Bar - San Diego Restaurants: Giffard Aperitif Syrup - Clean Beauty Apps: Think Dirty - Yuka - Chemical maze - Detox me - Non-Toxic Costume Options: Ways to buy non-toxic face paint - Do-It-Yourself Face Paint -
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TED Talks: Women to the Rescue
10/12/2023
TED Talks: Women to the Rescue
TED Talks: Women to the Rescue Description: Worldwide, eighty percent of those displaced by climate change are women, and by 2025, that same crisis will prevent more than 12 million girls from completing their education - every year. In this first episode of Season 2, we hear from Ronda Carnegie about Project Dandelion, the very first women-led global climate justice organization. After a stellar business career, Ronda co-founded TEDWomen and the TEDInstitute before joining powerful women around the world looking to connect and amplify the efforts underway to speed climate solutions to where they are needed most. Nurturing hope rather than fear, Project Dandelion is open to all, and by the end of the interview, you’ll know how to get your own Dandelion pin. This episode’s headlines include concerns about iPhone safety from French authorities, the dangers of space litter from expired satellites, and why you may not want to rake leaves in your yard- ever again. More justice, hope and less yardwork- welcome to Season 2 of Green Docs! Links: Project Dandelion- get your pin here: LinkedIn Women’s Panel on Menopause: “Power of the Pack” French authorities mandate removal of iPhone 12 for excess radiation: DISH Network fined by FCC for “space junk” violation: Leave leaves alone for everyone’s benefit: ISMO on leaf blowers:
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Green Docs Season 2 Promo
10/04/2023
Green Docs Season 2 Promo
Green Docs Season 2 Promo
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CANARY- a little birdie told me.. go see this film
09/17/2023
CANARY- a little birdie told me.. go see this film
A rainforest standoff with tribal leaders, deadly denial, and a real-life Indiana Jones: CANARY, a new documentary film, drills down on the real story of global warming lying far beneath the deluge of data. We interview director Alex Rivest, an MIT-trained neuroscientist who teamed with Danny O’Malley (Netflix: Chef’s Table) in his film debut, to chronicle the life of legendary glacier scientist Lonnie Thompson: from his roots in coal-country West Virginia to his pioneering research penetrating remote ice peaks in Peru and beyond. Join us as we muse on bringing the power of storytelling to science – and learn why Lonnie’s tireless quest to reveal Earth’s memories etched in ice may just be our truest compass for a livable future. But first, the Green Docs tell of Congress members urging investigation of oil companies and their the long-running campaign of deception, a Taiwanese presidential candidate wanting to boost the country’s birth rate by giving away puppies and kittens, and the surprising sale of Hostess foods, makers of Twinkies, for over five billion dollars. Yes, that’s billion- we don’t get it either. Listen in and you’ll want to go see “CANARY,” opening for one night, Wednesday September 20, at 150 theaters nationwide- check the Show Links to find your tickets. Show Links: “Canary” the movie: watch the Trailer, then scroll down to buy tickets Climate for Health program at ecoAmerica: Savannah Bananas baseball team: Congress calls upon DOJ to investigate oil companies campaign to mislead the public: Taiwan presidential hopeful offers pets for pregnancies in push to boost birth rate Microtrends Squared: The New Small Forces Driving the Big Disruptions | Mark Penn | Talks at Google Smuckers buys Hostess Twinkies for $5.6 billion: Processed foods and GHGs:
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A Unicorn Walks Into a Doctor’s Office
09/07/2023
A Unicorn Walks Into a Doctor’s Office
This episode finds the Green Docs talking to Kate Ryder, CEO of Maven, the world’s largest online virtual care company for women and families. You’ll hear about the challenges and opportunities of bringing greatly improved access to specialists in fertility, mental health and menopause for clients like Amazon, serving employees around the globe in 35 languages. And, since we’re the Green Docs, we explore how this virtual care model aids those affected by health care disparities and can also be a lifeline for families affected by our escalating “natural” disasters. Beginning the episode, the guys weigh in on two climate stories: how Hurricane Idalia and other storms on both coasts are growing more dangerous, and a story in the New York Times about changes to the wedding industry forced by worsening weather and air quality. Finally, Nate declares that paper straws “suck” because, well, they don’t- and they contain hormone disruptors: another example of how solutions aren’t always simple. Show Links: Hurricane Idalia on the heels of Hurricane Hilary: Wedding Disruptions Due to Climate Change: Paper Straws: Dry Farmed Tomatoes: Maven Virtual Care for Mothers and Families: The Next Frontier for Corporate Benefits: Menopause
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On Location: Heat and Human Health Summit
08/26/2023
On Location: Heat and Human Health Summit
The Green Docs are on location! Go back to school with them at UC San Diego’s Medical School campus for the inaugural Heat and Human Health (H3) Summit. They interview conference organizer Vi Nguyen, better known on Instagram as Dr. Plastic Picker, as she tells us about cleaning up her own backyard: from favorite beaches to lecture halls. You’ll also hear from conference-goers – a husband-wife green “power couple” and an inspiring 2nd year medical student – about why they showed up on a summer Saturday. Spoiler alert: it wasn’t just for the donuts. Green Docs rock! As usual, Nate and Bruce take you through the latest headlines: the Beyonce concert that took a sharp left in Washington, DC due to severe weather; soaring sales of electric vehicles and maybe the end of range anxiety; and the health warning you haven’t heard about from wildfires in Maui and elsewhere. And finally – was Bruce dressed “Ken enough” when he went to watch Barbie?? Show Links: Bad weather at the Beyoncé concert in D.C.: Lahaina, wildfires and infectious disease risk: Electric vehicle sales in California: Surfrider Foundation: Sharp HealthCare San Diego, 100% Renewable Energy: Hospital Disaster Preparedness, “OB Train”: San Diego Public Health Advisory Council: Philippines champion “train the trainees” Vi Nguyen, MD, Dr. Plastic Picker on Instagram: U.S. Centers for Disease Control, heat illness signs: “How to Citizen” with Baratunde podcast: Kin Euphorics: Phony Negroni: Visit us at Green Docs podcast Read the show notes and visit the links mentioned in this episode. You can also leave us a voice message from the little green microphone on the bottom right or just email us a question or feedback from the Contact page
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Elephant in the Womb
08/10/2023
Elephant in the Womb
Let’s talk about the elephant in the womb. That’s the intention of e-Lovu Health, an ascending FemTech startup, who uses their pachyderm logo to introduce a new prenatal care model that improves birth outcomes and reduces environmental impact by bridging virtual care with traditional in-person visits. The Green Docs explore this new “click & mortar” approach with e-Lovu CEO Noel Pugh and CMO Santosh Pandipati as they talk eco-hotspots, micronudges and, of course, Barbie. By the end you just may find yourself wanting your own personal elephant… or two. Nate and Bruce begin the conversation with the latest headlines: the UN Secretary General declares that global warming has given way to “global boiling,” California explores a new way to save massive amounts of water while producing renewable energy, and a new Hollywood release elevates the annual “well woman exam.” Tune in for these stories and more – and find out how Bruce plans to be Ken-enough. Show Links: Global boiling: Urban heat islands Project Nexus: solar panels covering water canals in California: ‘Barbie’ movie’s ending is an important reminder for women’s health Nate- Weather Channel Interview Journal of Climate Change and Health: EcoAmerica Climate for Health: e-Lovu Health: e-Lovu Health announces partnership with Caduceus Medical Group Adopt an Elephant EPA AirNow app OSHA Heat Index app Visit us at Green Docs podcast Read the show notes and visit the links mentioned in this episode. You can also leave us a voice message from the little green microphone on the bottom right or just email us a question or feedback from the Contact page
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Baby Shark
07/28/2023
Baby Shark
Why are two Ob/Gyn’s hosting a Shark Week episode? Tune in and you’ll find out how ocean health and pregnancy health go hand-in-hand: from microplastics in seafood to climate stability to even the air we breathe – it’s all connected. The Green Docs host marine expert James Stewart from the Aquarium of the Pacific to take a deep dive into those topics, along with the importance of coral reefs, what’s going on with those orcas off the coast of Spain, and of course… baby sharks. As always, Nate and Bruce keep you up to date with the latest headlines: the FDA approves a birth control pill to be sold without a prescription, some BMWs will soon be changing colors on the fly, and Shell EV charging stations may just become the new place to hang out while plugging in. When you’re done listening to these Shark Week tales, you might find yourself “hooked” on Green Docs! Show Links: FDA approves over-the-counter birth control pill BMW features cars that can change color to match your mood, or the weather Shell dramatically expands its network of EV charging stations Shark Week enters its 35th season as the longest-running TV show in cable history Aquarium of the Pacific Seagrass story Happywhale.com: Chief “googly eyes” Shrinking shark populations endanger health of Great Barrier Reef The secret lives of baby sharks Mocktails: Lyre’s De Soi
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FemTech Focus x Green Docs
07/07/2023
FemTech Focus x Green Docs
The Green Docs welcome Dr. Brittany Barreto, host of the Femtech Focus podcast and one of the freshest voices in women’s health today. She explains what “FemTech” is, why it matters to everything from pregnancy to investment banking, and what it offers for sustainability in feminine care products. You won’t believe what some entrepreneurs are doing with seaweed! As always, Nate and Bruce keep you up to date with the latest headlines – Texas legislators taking away water breaks from outdoor workers just before a massive heat wave, how everyone in South Korea suddenly just got one year younger, and new research that shows prolonged exposure to loud noises can put you in the hospital – more cowbell anyone? Show links: Texas legislators take away water breaks: Pregnant Workers Fairness Act: South Korea changes all citizen’s birthdays: Loud noises can be harmful to your health: Advancing Safe Medications for Moms and Babies Act of 2022: Femtech Focus podcast with Brittany Barreto: FemTech links: Aisle washable pads: Days for girls: Flex period cups: Modibodi period underwear: Thinx period underwear: Planera flushable pads: Viv for your V: Daye sustainable tampons: Vyld seaweed tampons: Bloomlife pregnancy tracker: Pulsenmore home ultrasound: Junobio vaginal microbiome self test:
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Daddy Issues
06/15/2023
Daddy Issues
This Father’s Day, the Green Docs talk to renowned fertility specialist Dr. Ravi Gada about the often-neglected “other half of the equation”: male fertility. In addition to “a guy’s guide to getting pregnant,” you’ll hear about the latest trends in fertility care – from at-home testing using artificial intelligence, to how fertility labs protect growing embryos from the dangers of wildfire smoke. Oh, and there’s some good news about jacuzzis and the boxers-briefs debate. Nate and Bruce cover news of air conditioning being required in L.A. housing and a solar-powered boat that’s keeping tons of trash out of the ocean! And, speaking of cajones, did you know that both Robert Dinero and Al Pacino are becoming fathers again- in their 80’s? You’ll also meet another Italian father, Nate’s dad Dr. Gregg DeNicola, who talks about the Mediterranean diet, homegrown basil, and the joys of helping guys become first-time fathers. Links: KLTA News: L.A. City Council votes to mandate air conditioning in all rental units LA Times: Trash interceptor weathers the storms, sparing Pacific from thousands of pounds of garbage CNN: Robert De Niro reacts to Al Pacino becoming a father again at 83 Healthline: The Mediterranean Diet 101 BBC: How pollution is causing a male fertility crisis Dr. Ravi Gada on “The Bradshaw Bunch: Terry Bradshaw Has Too Much Fun At Rachel’s Fertility Appointment” American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: Committee Opinion on Toxic Environmental Exposures; lead author: Nate DeNicola ACOG Patient Frequently Asked Questions Toxic Chemicals: Steps to Stay Safer Before and During Pregnancy New York Times: Why air pollution is a particular threat to pregnant women Interview with Nate DeNicola Drink Monday: Zero Alcohol Spirits Ritual Tequila Alternative Your Guy’s Guide to Gynecology
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Bun in a Crazy-Hot Oven
06/06/2023
Bun in a Crazy-Hot Oven
Prep your pregnancy for summer with the Green Docs and guest expert Miri Marshall, Weather Anchor at WUSA-9 in Washington, DC. Miri details how expectant moms and others can best anticipate and lower the risks of the season’s scorching heat. Nate and Bruce follow up with your vital Heat Action Plan — loaded with specific recommendations and weather resources, and even some apps you’ll want to download. The Green Docs always begin with the latest headlines – Tennessee’s shrinking number of hospitals delivering babies, an Italian study finding microplastics in breast milk, and even a memory from Nicolas Cage, who recalls seeing faces from inside his mother’s womb! After this episode, you’ll weather the summer heat with no sweat – taking Miri’s authoritative weather advice combined with the guys’ practical solutions – and you can keep those precious buns cool and protected from a crazy-hot oven. Show Links Tennessee hospital closures: Microplastics in breast milk? Nicolas Cage and pre-birth memories: A Sound Beginning prenatal program: Heat and risks to pregnancies: and Miri Marshall interviews Nate for WUSA special coverage of heat and pregnant risks: Apps and online heat and humidity info: NOAA weather app “Heat Index: Apple iOS weather app (available in the App Store): hourly temp/humidity Weather websites: ; Heat resources: heat exhaustion and heat stroke: Public Health Institute: CDC: heat and reproductive health
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Keep Calm and March For Moms
05/11/2023
Keep Calm and March For Moms
This Mother’s Day, the Green Docs host Laneceya Russ and Yuliya Labko of the national nonprofit March For Moms, featured recently in a 60 Minutes expose on improving maternal health. Nate and Bruce lead off with some recent headlines: toxic chemicals in children’s clothes, elephants who can induce their own labor, and a couple of million-dollar babies – Oscar winner Hilliary Swank welcomes twins. The guys next welcome a surprise guest- Nate’s mom, Mary- who shares her decades of experience caring for pregnant women as a doctor of nursing and lactation consultant. Of course, she has some embarrassing childhood stories about Nate and even some scary tales of Bruce dancing in New Orleans at Nate’s wedding. Laneceya and Yuliya the interview guests highlight their amazing work helping protect moms and babies across the US, and once you’re ready to pitch in, don’t worry – we’ve got all the info for you to keep calm and march for moms. Links Toxic “fast-fashion” clothing: Elephants might be able to induce their own labor: Hillary Swank and her twins: 60 Minutes: In Louisiana, pregnant women struggle to get maternal health care and the situation is getting worse: “Better” by Atul Gwande: Momnibus suite of bills in the U.S. Congress: Protecting Moms and Babies from Climate Change Act: U.S. House of Representatives Black Maternal Health Caucus Roundtable: March For Moms: Chocolate Milk Mommies: Nurturely: Wombs & Wildfires: TikTok - Green Docs on Popcorngate: H2Om: USE discount code: GreenDocs20 (good through May 31st) Visit the Green Docs podcast for a lot more
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Healthy Earth, Healthy Birth: Mother Earth Needs an OB-GYN
04/18/2023
Healthy Earth, Healthy Birth: Mother Earth Needs an OB-GYN
In this Earth Day episode of Green Docs, the guys lead with breaking news – a State Supreme Court election in Wisconsin with national implications, as highlighted by Dr. Kristin Lyerly in Episode 2. They follow with reports of traveling tornadoes and a pro athlete who scored zero points during his wife’s delivery, and then move to the main event: Earth Day #53 and their interview with Dr. Jeanne Conry. After covering the history of the first Earth Day in 1970- and the tumultuous decade that preceded it- Bruce and Nate explain how that simple protest changed the world. To this, they add the little-known backstory of dangers from mercury in fish, a startling tale from mid-century Japan that awakened that country to environmental risk. Dr. Conry, who has led both the United States and International OBGyn societies, joins in to share what motivates her as she continues her amazing career promoting healthy pregnancy outcomes and better health care for all the women of the world. The guys close with a hopeful reminder from that first Earth Day of our proven capacity to solve big environmental challenges, and offer specific suggestions for how to protect ourselves and help our communities. Episode 4 will arrive in time for Mother’s Day, focusing on what’s being done to protect all pregnant women across the country from environmental risks. So, get your Mom, mix up some mocktails, and don’t miss it! Show Links Dr. Jeanne Conry on Instagram: Fashion and design: Dr. Kristin Lyerly on NPR, April 6 Liberals will win control of Wisconsin Supreme Court, CNN projects The Wisconsin Supreme Court election has given hope to the state's medical community Is Tornado Alley shifting due to climate change? Scientists explain how warming climate affects tornado activity NFL’s Jason Kelce snoozes and eats through his wife’s labor in relatable video We Stopped Dreaming (Neil deGrasse Tyson) Parts 1 + 2 Update on Seafood Consumption During Pregnancy The History of Earth Day Climate Solutions for Your Community
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Dr. Smith Goes to Washington
03/31/2023
Dr. Smith Goes to Washington
In Episode #2 of Green Docs, “Dr. Smith Goes to Washington”, Bruce and Nate take a deep dive into the crucial role of physicians as advocates for health policy in an interview with Dr. Kristin Lyerly, an Ob/Gyn and recent candidate for Wisconsin State Assembly. They introduce advocacy with current headlines: from the rise in pregnancy-related deaths in the US, to a plan to close the wealth gap with “universal baby income”: a $1M savings account at birth. They even float the notion (pun alert) of dolphins as the new doulas. Next, the guys introduce their interview with Dr. Kristin Lyerly with an under-the-radar connection between the climate crisis and women’s health, and reveal how a recent lobby day in Washington, DC was short-circuited by a surprise twist: silence. Lending her voice to the matter, Kristin gives a first-hand account of her experience as a doctor running for elected office, shares her sometimes-vicarious environmental work, and explains how she finds common ground advocating for her patients on sensitive and sometimes life-threatening scenarios in a conservative Midwest district. Nate and Bruce close with suggestions for what we can all do to help ensure our representatives will listen, learn, and work towards better health policies for all. Their next episode will take you back to 1970 and the first Earth Day and how it truly changed our world for the better. Grab your tie-dye, flash a peace sign, and join us on April 22nd for Episode 3 of Green Docs. Episode 2 Links: Maternal mortality rates worst since 1965, COVID made them even worse Give all babies in the US $1M Is a dolphin your next Doula? “Fertility and Income” by T. Paul Shultz, Yale Economic Growth Center “The Myth of 9 Billion” by Malcolm Potts and Martha Campbell, Foreign Policy ! “World Population to Reach 10 Billion by 2100 If Fertility in All Countries Converges to Replacement Level”, United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs Strategies for electing better representatives Register to vote anywhere in the U.S.
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Planes, Trains and Oral Contraceptives
03/17/2023
Planes, Trains and Oral Contraceptives
Join Nate and Bruce, two OB Gyn physicians and environmental experts, for the first episode of their podcast, Green Docs. They deliver you right into recent environmental headlines that connect to women’s health and pregnancy -- from the toxic train wreck in Ohio to new concerns about turbulence during plane flights, and even Chris Rock’s latest Netflix special. They honor International Women's Month with a feature on Virginia Apgar, creator of the Apgar Score, and how she ensured every baby’s well-being is “graded” at birth. Finally, they introduce their next episode, an interview with Dr. Kristin Lyerly, with her insider stories on women's health both as a practicing Ob/Gyn and candidate for State Assembly; and a surprising tale from Washington DC where lobbying efforts met an unexpected obstacle: silence. Links What is mifepristone, the drug at the heart of the Texas medication abortion lawsuit? Testing for toxic exposures following train wreck in East Palestine, OH TikTok story: no longer testing for dioxin Former White House official dies of injuries after jet turbulence ACOG Air Travel During Pregnancy NIH Profiles in Science: Dr. Virginia Apgar
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