The Exam Room by the Physicians Committee

Dive into the science of your diet! Learn how a humble blueberry can fight cancer or what the longest living people in the world are eating. Every episode is packed with facts that will raise your health IQ and boost your nutrition knowledge. "The Weight Loss Champion" Chuck Carroll is joined by Dr. Neal Barnard, a leading voice in nutrition science and founder of The Physicians Committee, and other elite doctors and dietitians. Unlock the secrets to living longer and healthier life and how to fight diseases with every meal.

Gut Health Hype: What Actually Works? | Christopher Gardner, PhD 10/19/2026

Gut Health Hype: What Actually Works? | Christopher Gardner, PhD Before you buy another gut-health product, hear what the human research actually found. Stanford nutrition scientist Christopher Gardner, PhD, explains the evidence on fiber, fermented foods, and inflammation. When you're trying to feel better, a promise of billions of beneficial bacteria can sound convincing. But what do those numbers really tell you about the product you're buying? Gardner joins on The Exam Room Podcast to unpack a human trial that surprised his own research team. The fermented-food group increased gut microbial diversity and had lower levels of several inflammatory markers, while the fiber group's responses were more complicated. He explains why these findings do not mean fiber has failed, and why a study of foods cannot automatically validate every product marketed for your microbiome. In this episode: What prebiotics, probiotics, synbiotics, and postbiotics mean Why a bigger CFU count does not establish a better health outcome How fermented foods and fiber produced different results in a small human trial Why mouse findings did not predict the human results Why fibermaxxing can be a rough transition for your gut The limits of research measurements of inflammation Gardner's response to seed-oil claims How to build a varied, plant-rich eating pattern you can sustain What he has learned from making 250 batches of kombucha 📕 Food Sense: What to Eat and Why 👉 🔬 Gut Immune System Trial 👉 Exam Roomie of the Week - Lori Goosmann Make a gift to support The Exam Room Podcast and the life-changing work of the Physicians Committee. All gifts of $20 or more receive a mention on the show. Gifts of $100 or more receive an exclusive Exam Room Podcast tote! 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 - About Us - The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated action /episode/index/show/examroom/id/43358709

5 Ways to Reduce Bloating | Dr. Will Bulsiewicz 10/15/2026

5 Ways to Reduce Bloating | Dr. Will Bulsiewicz You’re eating healthier, but the bloating won’t quit. By afternoon, your stomach feels tight, your clothes feel uncomfortable, and you’re wondering which food to give up next. Before you cut out another healthy food, Dr. Will Bulsiewicz wants you to consider something surprising: You can poop every day and still be constipated. The gastroenterologist joins Chuck Carroll to explain five approaches to reducing bloating and why simply eating more fiber isn’t always the answer. DR. B’S FIVE TIPS FOR REDUCING BLOATING Address constipation. Going every day doesn’t necessarily mean you’re emptying your bowels fully. Reduce swallowed air. Look at habits such as drinking carbonated beverages, sipping through straws, chewing gum, and gulping drinks. Increase fiber gradually. “Low and slow—that’s the tempo.” Start with what you tolerate and build at your own pace. Consider a trial without dairy and artificial sweeteners. Dr. B explains how lactose and certain sweeteners, including sugar alcohols, can contribute to gas and bloating. Slow down when you eat. Take time to chew, avoid rushing through meals, and try putting your fork down between bites. BONUS: Take a “fart walk”! Dr. B explains how moving your body can help move gas through your digestive system. You’ll also hear the difference between feeling bloated and having a visibly distended abdomen, plus when ongoing symptoms deserve a conversation with your doctor. Dr. B discusses BDR, the supplement he developed through his company, 38TERA, and explains its peppermint oil, probiotic, and capsule design. There are plenty of laughs along the way—but the message is serious: You deserve to feel comfortable, and persistent bloating shouldn’t be something you simply accept. 🙏 Become and Exam Room VIP and get early access to the interview with Dr. Michael Greger before anyone else! 👉 🩺 Dr. Will Bulsiewicz 👉 🩺 38Tera 👉 This episode is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about any changes to your diet or lifestyle. - About Us - The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated action /episode/index/show/examroom/id/43295049

Kidney Disease: Silent Signals and Best Foods | Dr. Sean Hashmi 10/13/2026

Health Benefits of Pink Foods: The Science Behind Their Color | Dr. Neal Barnard 10/08/2026

Health Benefits of Pink Foods: The Science Behind Their Color | Dr. Neal Barnard When breast cancer touches your life, everyday choices can take on a new urgency. What should you eat? Does exercise matter? And what should you make of products wrapped in pink for breast cancer awareness? Dr. Neal Barnard joins Chuck Carroll to explore the science behind pink and red plant foods as part of the Physicians Committee’s Let’s Beat Breast Cancer campaign. The conversation goes inside strawberries, watermelon, tomatoes, and beets to explain why similar colors can come from very different compounds—and why an overall eating pattern matters more than chasing one superfood. You’ll hear: How gut bacteria break down the colorful compounds in berries. Why tomato sauce can provide more absorbable lycopene than a raw tomato. What breast cancer survivor research found about fruit and vegetable intake combined with physical activity. How the pigments in plant foods differ from the pink color in meat. Why breast cancer fundraising tied to alcohol deserves scrutiny. Whether cooking and freezing change the benefits of these foods. How Dr. Barnard went from avoiding berries to eating them every morning. The research discussion includes both a randomized dietary trial and an observational analysis of diet plus activity. 🙏 Become and Exam Room VIP and get early access to the interview with Dr. Michael Greger before anyone else! 👉 💪 Let's Beat Breast Cancer 👉 ▶️ Venus Williams and Dr. Funk Ad 👉 This episode of The Exam Room Podcast is sponsored by the Gregory J. Reiter Memorial Fund. Our sincere thanks to Alysoun Mahoney and everyone at the fund for their generous support of the Physicians Committee and The Exam Room Podcast. 🙂 Gregory Reiter Fund 👉 This episode is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about any changes to your diet or lifestyle. - About Us - The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated actions of more than 175,000 members across the United States and around the world. /episode/index/show/examroom/id/43224028

Breast Cancer Beyond Genetics: Better Outcomes | Dr. Kristi Funk 10/05/2026

Breast Cancer Beyond Genetics: Better Outcomes | Dr. Kristi Funk An abnormal mammogram. No ride to the next appointment. No one to watch the kids. And a paycheck that won’t stretch far enough to cover both groceries and medical care. Breast cancer surgeon Dr. Kristi Funk explains how those everyday challenges can become barriers to timely diagnosis and treatment—and why helping women overcome them can change lives. She joins Chuck Carroll to examine a troubling finding: Black women have a lower overall incidence of breast cancer than white women, yet a higher death rate. Dr. Funk explains why differences in age, cancer subtype, and stage at diagnosis don’t tell the whole story. The conversation also follows the connections between the food available in a neighborhood and the health of the people living there. What happens when nutritious food is difficult to find, but less healthy options are everywhere? And how do insulin resistance, inflammation, hormones, and gut bacteria fit into the breast cancer picture? You’ll hear: Whether ultra-processed foods can cause breast cancer The difference between a food desert and a food swamp How insulin resistance can affect hormone signaling The gut microbiome’s role in processing estrogen How patient navigators help women manage their breast cancer journey Overlooked symptoms that deserve attention after treatment Dr. Funk’s experience working with Venus Williams At the heart of this conversation is a practical question: What can we change so more women get the food, care, and support they need? 🙏 Become and Exam Room VIP and get early access to the interview with Dr. Michael Greger before anyone else! 👉 💪 Let's Beat Breast Cancer 👉 📕 Breasts: The Owners Manual by Dr. Funk 👉 ▶️ Venus Williams and Dr. Funk Ad 👉 Make a gift to support The Exam Room Podcast and the life-changing work of the Physicians Committee. All gifts of $20 or more receive a mention on the show. Gifts of $100 or more receive an exclusive Exam Room Podcast tote! Exam Roomie of the Week - Guillermo Irizarry This episode is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about any changes to your diet or lifestyle. - About Us - The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated actions of more than 175,000 members across the United States and around the world. /episode/index/show/examroom/id/43183953

Dairy vs. Plant-Based Yogurt: What Matters for Gut Health? | Dr. Alan Desmond 10/01/2026

Healthy Ideas For Busy People: Quickies with PlantYou’s Carleigh Bodrug 09/28/2026

Best Iron Sources for a Plant-Based Diet: What to Eat, What to Avoid | Dr. Neal Barnard 09/24/2026

Best Iron Sources for a Plant-Based Diet: What to Eat, What to Avoid | Dr. Neal Barnard Nearly one-third of American adults may have some form of iron deficiency. Does that mean we should be eating more meat—or could that advice create an entirely different set of health problems? Dr. Neal Barnard joins Chuck Carroll to examine a Washington Post article recommending meat, poultry, and seafood as sources of highly absorbable heme iron. They also explore the counterargument from Dr. Jim Loomis of Barnard Medical Center, who says beans and greens are the healthier choice. You’ll learn how to meet your iron needs while eating a plant-based diet, including the best foods, the importance of vitamin C, and common mistakes that can interfere with absorption. Dr. Barnard also examines the complete nutritional package that comes with each source of iron. How do beans compare with beef when calories, total fat, saturated fat, cholesterol, fiber, and protein are considered? And what could the choice mean for LDL cholesterol, blood sugar, insulin sensitivity, inflammation, blood pressure, weight, and other metabolic markers? Plus, discover the potential concerns surrounding heme iron, including its associations with colorectal cancer, cardiovascular disease, oxidative stress, and type 2 diabetes. Topics discussed include: Heme iron vs. non-heme iron The best plant-based sources of iron Beans, lentils, tofu, seeds, whole grains, and leafy greens How vitamin C improves iron absorption Ferritin, hemoglobin, and transferrin saturation When an iron supplement may be necessary The potential risks of taking iron without medical supervision Calories, saturated fat, cholesterol, and fiber in iron-rich foods Heme iron and the risks of cancer and heart disease 🥩 Iron in Meat Linked to Heart Disease 👉 This episode of The Exam Room Podcast is sponsored by the Gregory J. Reiter Memorial Fund. Our sincere thanks to Alysoun Mahoney and everyone at the fund for their generous support of the Physicians Committee and The Exam Room Podcast. 🙂 Gregery Reiter Fund 👉 Make a gift to support The Exam Room Podcast and the life-changing work of the Physicians Committee. 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 This episode is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about any changes to your diet or lifestyle. - About Us - The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated action /episode/index/show/examroom/id/43011003

Food Companies Control Your Cravings. How To Fight Back | David Fenton 09/21/2026

Food Companies Control Your Cravings. How To Fight Back | David Fenton Why can a fast-food commercial still trigger a craving 16 years after someone stopped eating it? And how can a health movement compete with the enormous marketing power of Big Food? Communications pioneer David Fenton joins Chuck Carroll, who lost nearly 300 pounds, to reveal how advertising, repetition, emotion, and social media shape what people believe—and ultimately what they eat. David has spent more than 50 years helping activists, artists, nonprofits, and social movements make their voices heard. Often called the “Robin Hood of Public Relations,” he explains why facts alone rarely change minds, why the most effective messages reach the heart as well as the head, and how one person with a phone can build an extraordinary movement. Chuck also shares his experience weighing 420 pounds, consuming as many as 10,000 calories a day, and battling a severe fast-food addiction. Even after 16 years without fast food, some advertisements can still awaken old cravings. In this episode: How food companies program cravings through repetition Why simple messages are easier to remember and share How small nonprofits can compete with enormous marketing budgets Why stories can persuade people when statistics cannot How one person can mobilize hundreds of thousands of followers Billie Eilish, Support + Feed, and the one-meal plant-based pledge The role of artists and influencers in social change Why hope should lead—and fear should play a smaller role David’s largely plant-based journey beginning in a 1970s commune How ordinary people can begin making a difference today 📕 Get David Fenton's Book 👉 🎧 David's Podcast 👉 - Exam Roomie of the Week - Angela Lugenbeel Make a gift to support The Exam Room Podcast and the life-changing work of the Physicians Committee. 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 This episode is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about any changes to your diet or lifestyle. - About Us - The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated action /episode/index/show/examroom/id/42978503

The Science of Willpower: How to Make Healthy Habits Stick | Dr. Gemma Newman 09/17/2026

Can Chocolate Protect Your Heart? A 21,000-Person Study Found Out | Dr. Howard Sesso 09/14/2026

Diet Power: Olympian Gets Stronger, No Longer Eats Meat | Kendrick Farris 09/09/2026

Diet Power: Olympian Gets Stronger, No Longer Eats Meat | Kendrick Farris Can an athlete become stronger, recover faster, and clean and jerk more than 440 pounds without eating meat? Three-time Olympian Kendrick Farris says the answer is yes. Kendrick represented the United States at the 2008, 2012, and 2016 Olympic Games and was featured in the hit documentary The Game Changers. He ate a standard American diet during his first two Olympic appearances. By his third, he was completely plant-based—and he says the difference was extraordinary. Kendrick tells Chuck Carroll that he did not lose explosiveness after changing his diet. He believes he gained more, recovered faster, completed more work, and became stronger. He also opens up about growing up in poverty in Shreveport, Louisiana, where there were days when his family did not have enough food. When he asked his mother what they were eating, her answer was sometimes, “Fast and pray.” That experience helped build the faith and discipline that would eventually carry him to the Olympic stage. In this episode: How much protein an Olympic weightlifter eats How his performance changed after going plant-based His experience competing nine times in one year Why recovery became his greatest advantage Why he replaced whey with plant-based protein The bloating he experienced before changing protein sources How to order plant-based food at any restaurant What The Game Changers did for plant-based athletes Why he believes strength is physical, mental, and spiritual The Physicians Committee’s Plant-Powered Performance sports nutrition course begins Sept. 14 and features live instruction, expert Q&A, recordings, athlete-focused recipes, and practical strategies for improving energy, endurance, strength, and recovery. 🎉 PCRM Sports Nutrition Course 👉 🏋🏿‍♂️ Kendrick Farris 👉 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 This episode is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about any changes to your diet or lifestyle. - About Us - The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated action /episode/index/show/examroom/id/42843595

Fiber May Matter More Than Protein for Muscle and Longevity 09/07/2026

Fiber May Matter More Than Protein for Muscle and Longevity Can fiber be even more important than protein for athletic performance, muscle health, and healthy aging? Dr. Regan A. Stiegmann and Dr. Sharon McDowell-Larsen join “The Exam Room Podcast” to challenge some of the biggest assumptions in fitness and sports nutrition. Dr. McDowell-Larsen is an exercise physiologist, nine-time Ironman finisher, and age-group world champion who remains an elite competitor at 65. She reveals how changing her diet helped resolve debilitating breathing problems, eliminate her need for three asthma medications, and revive an athletic career she thought was over. Dr. Stiegmann is a former U.S. Air Force major and flight surgeon who helped advance lifestyle and performance medicine in the military. She explains why nutrition can influence everything from muscle recovery and cognitive performance to military readiness and long-term health. Together, they explore the emerging gut-muscle connection and explain why America’s obsession with protein may be causing athletes to overlook fiber. In this episode: Why protein alone may not prevent age-related muscle loss How fiber supports muscle, bone, and metabolic health What a 65-year-old Ironman champion eats in a typical day The relationship between gut health and muscle function Why exercise cannot erase the effects of a poor diet The potential risks of extreme endurance exercise How a plant-based diet may improve recovery Why some professional athletes keep plant-based eating a secret How daily choices determine the trajectory of aging Dr. Stiegmann and Dr. McDowell-Larsen are the co-authors of “Staying in the Game,” an evidence-based guide to maintaining physical, mental, and metabolic performance throughout life. The six-week online course begins Sept. 14 and features live instruction, expert Q&A, recordings, athlete-focused recipes, and practical strategies for improving energy, endurance, strength, and recovery. Chuck and professional wrestler Dan Healy, known to wrestling fans as Austin Aries, will be among the featured presenters. 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 🎉 PCRM Sports Nutrition Course 👉 📕 Staying In The Game Book 👉 🚴‍♀️ Sharen McDowell-Larsen Substack 👉 This episode is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about any changes to your diet or lifestyle. - About Us - The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated action /episode/index/show/examroom/id/42755315

The Pleasure Trap Is Getting Worse. Here’s How to Escape It. | Dr. Doug Lisle 09/02/2026

The Pleasure Trap Is Getting Worse. Here’s How to Escape It. | Dr. Doug Lisle Why does healthy eating feel so hard—even when we know exactly what to do? Dr. Doug Lisle joins Chuck Carroll on The Exam Room to explain the psychology behind The Pleasure Trap and why today’s food environment may be even more difficult to navigate than it was two decades ago. Dr. Lisle is the co-author of The Pleasure Trap and a longtime voice in evolutionary psychology. In this conversation, he shares his perspective on why highly processed foods can be so alluring, why shame and willpower are not enough, and how people can build a more sustainable whole-food plant-based way of eating. In this episode: Why the modern food environment can feel impossible to escape The psychology of pleasure, pain avoidance, and habit Why healthy diets can fail when they feel too restrictive Dr. Lisle’s “vegan Bushman” approach to calorie density and satisfaction What he thinks about GLP-1 weight-loss medications How to judge dietary progress without obsessing over daily scale changes A preview of his upcoming book, Sherlock Holmes and the Secret of Life Dr. Lisle will also be joining Chuck at the Plant Powered Party in Las Vegas, September 4–6. Chef AJ, Dr. Michael Greger, Dr. Brooke Goldner, Dr. Joel Fuhrman, Dr. Columbus Batiste, and many more will be there, too. Can’t make it to Vegas? Watch all three days live from anywhere with replay access for a full year. This is Chef AJ’s last event for a long while, so don’t miss it. Exam Roomies of the Week Evan Haas Lucy EverHope Make a gift to support The Exam Room Podcast and the life-changing work of the Physicians Committee. 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 🎉 Plant-Powered Party Las Vegas 👉 📕 The Pleasure Trap 👉 📗 Sherlock Holmes and the Secret of Life 👉 This episode is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about any changes to your diet or lifestyle. - About Us - The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated action /episode/index/show/examroom/id/42724825

Food Is Medicine? Meet the Doctor Growing It 08/31/2026

Food Is Medicine? Meet the Doctor Growing It Can food really be medicine? Dr. Ron Weiss is a physician who believes the answer starts long before a meal reaches your plate—it starts in the soil. In this episode of The Exam Room Podcast, visits with Dr. Weiss about his unique model of care at Ethos Farm in New Jersey, where regenerative farming and lifestyle-based primary care come together. They explore why soil health matters, what “living soil” means, and how whole plant foods can become a practical, powerful part of a healthier life. Dr. Weiss also shares how he helps patients make lasting changes without turning healthy eating into an impossible all-or-nothing assignment. From the first plant-based meal to a more intentional plate, this is a conversation about making better health feel more approachable. You’ll learn: Why Dr. Weiss says the first priority is to eat more whole plants What regenerative farming and healthy soil have to do with the food we eat How minimally processed plant foods differ from heavily processed options Why a healthy lifestyle should be practical, personal, and sustainable What patients can expect from Dr. Weiss’s farm-based model of care How coaching, lab work, and lifestyle changes can fit into a long-term health plan Why community support can make healthy change easier to maintain How to take your first realistic step toward eating more plant-based foods Dr. Weiss will also be joining Chuck, Chef AJ, Carleigh Bodrug from PlantYou, Dr. Will Bulsiewicz and others at the Plant Powered Party in Las Vegas, September 4–6, 2026. It’s a full weekend of inspiring speakers, practical presentations, delicious plant-based food, and community. Join in person or watch online from anywhere. Exam Roomies of the Week Meng Tee Andrea Bonnett Carolyn Doyle Make a gift to support The Exam Room Podcast and the life-changing work of the Physicians Committee. 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 🎉 Plant-Powered Party Las Vegas 👉 🩺 Ethos Primary Care 👉 🥕 Ethos Farm 👉 This episode is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about any changes to your diet or lifestyle. - About Us - The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated action /episode/index/show/examroom/id/42624135

She Survived Cancer and a Heart Transplant, Then Made History | Dr. Dawn Mussallem 08/27/2026

She Survived Cancer and a Heart Transplant, Then Made History | Dr. Dawn Mussallem Dr. Dawn Mussallem survived stage 4 cancer, received a heart transplant, and became the first person in history to complete a full marathon just one year later. Her remarkable story doesn’t end there. After experiencing unimaginable loss, Dawn found new love in the produce aisle—thanks to a purple sweet potato. And after 25 years at Mayo Clinic, she is beginning another major chapter as chief medical officer at Fountain Life. Dawn joins Chuck Carroll to share her extraordinary journey and the health lessons she has learned along the way. They discuss: The difference between longevity and health span The foods associated with healthier aging Why fiber may be one of the most overlooked health tools Protein needs for active adults and people taking GLP-1 medications The surprising reason Dawn developed prediabetes How sleep can affect blood sugar Personalized nutrition and the gut microbiome Her historic marathon after receiving a heart transplant Finding new love in the produce aisle Her major career move after 25 years at Mayo Clinic Chuck and Dawn will both appear at the Plant Powered Party, September 4–6 in Las Vegas. Explore the complete speaker lineup, schedule, tickets, and current virtual-access information at the link below. 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 🎉 Plant-Powered Party Las Vegas 👉 🎉 Dr. Dawn Mussallem 👉 This episode is powered by Dr. Brooke Bussard — a lifestyle medicine health coach who believes in the power of plants to maximize wellness. 👉 This episode is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about any changes to your diet or lifestyle. - About Us - The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated action /episode/index/show/examroom/id/42565685

How to Get Healthy When Nobody Else Is | Brenda Workman 08/24/2026

How to Get Healthy When Nobody Else Is | Brenda Workman Brenda Workman transformed her health. Now she is working to transform an entire state. After losing 60 pounds and getting off cholesterol and blood pressure medication with a plant-based diet, Brenda became a Food for Life instructor and dedicated herself to improving health in her home state of West Virginia. She teaches cooking classes, speaks to nursing students and businesses, appears on television, and trains community organizations to bring practical nutrition education to the people they serve. In this inspiring conversation with , Brenda explains why personal stories can reach people when facts alone cannot, how to talk about healthy eating without creating defensiveness, and why you should never wait for your family to change before taking responsibility for your own health. 🧠 You’ll also learn: How to eat plant-based when your family isn't plant-based Why respect is more effective than shame How to cook healthy food for one or two people Ways to make plant-based eating practical and affordable How Brenda is training others to teach healthy cooking Why delicious food is essential for lasting change Brenda’s Wellness Weekend is coming to Canaan Valley Resort in West Virginia on October 9–10, 2026. Chuck will be there with Brenda, Cyrus Khambatta, and Kylie Buckner from Evolution Health for presentations, workshops, exercise, delicious plant-based food, and an unforgettable fall weekend. Exam Roomies of the Week Barbara Kurtzweil Kelly Bonnell Marjorie Lewis Make a gift to support The Exam Room Podcast and the life-changing work of the Physicians Committee. 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 📘 Wellness Weekend Tickets 👉 This episode is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about any changes to your diet or lifestyle. - About Us - The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated action /episode/index/show/examroom/id/42541300

How to Keep One Bad Meal From Ruining Your Diet | Alan Stein Jr. & Dr. Hana Kahleova 08/20/2026

How to Keep One Bad Meal From Ruining Your Diet | Alan Stein Jr. & Dr. Hana Kahleova What happens when you know exactly what you should do for your health but you still don’t do it? Motivation may not be the answer. Best-selling author and performance expert Alan Stein Jr. joins Dr. Hana Kahleova and Chuck Carroll to reveal the “next play” mindset that can help you bounce back from bad decisions, stop self-sabotage, and become more consistent with your health. Before becoming a keynote speaker, Alan spent 20 years in basketball performance and had the opportunity to observe some of the greatest athletes in the world, including Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant. What separates elite performers isn’t perfection. They miss shots. They have bad days. They make mistakes. The difference is what they do next. In this episode of The Exam Room Podcast, you’ll learn how to stop one unhealthy meal from becoming an unhealthy week, why emotions should inform your decisions rather than control them, how to build discipline when motivation disappears, and why your environment may matter more than willpower. Chuck also opens up about weighing 420 pounds and eating as many as 10,000 calories of fast food a day — and why he is learning to have compassion for the person he used to be instead of continuing to punish himself for the past. Plus, Alan shares the daily routines that help him protect his mindset and explains why small wins eventually become enormous changes. Your last play is over. What will you do next? Exam Roomies of the Week Yvonne Brinson Ilaria Ottino Ken Swartz Make a gift to support The Exam Room Podcast and the life-changing work of the Physicians Committee. 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 📘 Next Play by Alan Stein Jr. 👉 This episode is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about any changes to your diet or lifestyle. - About Us - The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated action /episode/index/show/examroom/id/42488295

Chef AJ: How to Keep Going When Life Gets Hard 08/17/2026

Chef AJ: How to Keep Going When Life Gets Hard Chef AJ has been through one of the hardest chapters of her life. But she is still laughing. Still exercising. Still showing up. Still making plans. And most importantly, still finding reasons to enjoy life. In this deeply personal and often hilarious conversation, Chef AJ joins Chuck Carroll to talk about continuing to move forward despite health challenges, treatment and unexpected obstacles. She shares why improv comedy and exercise remained priorities even during some of her most difficult days—and why doing the things that make you feel better can matter most when you least feel like doing them. Chuck and AJ also open up about the friendship they’ve developed while both navigating their own health challenges and the messages of encouragement they’ve exchanged along the way. Plus, Chef AJ talks about laughter, improv, overcoming fear, taking chances, creating your own luck and why sometimes the first step forward is the hardest—and most important—one. And there is plenty of fun ahead! Chef AJ is hosting the Plant Powered Party in Las Vegas September 4–6, where Chuck will also be appearing along with an incredible lineup of plant-based doctors, chefs and experts. Can’t make it to Las Vegas? You can join the party virtually from anywhere in the world and watch online. Use the link in the episode notes to learn more. This is a conversation about friendship, resilience and finding joy even when life doesn’t go according to plan. Never stop moving forward. Exam Roomies of the Week Hemma Werner Gail Sears Anette Cathrine Nedreli Make a gift to support The Exam Room Podcast and the life-changing work of the Physicians Committee. 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 🎉 Plant-Powered Party Las Vegas 👉 📕 Chef AJ Books 👉 This episode is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about any changes to your diet or lifestyle. - About Us - The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated action /episode/index/show/examroom/id/42464605

Meat Causes Erectile Dysfunction: How and Why | Dr. Neal Barnard 08/13/2026

Lower Cholesterol With Food: The Portfolio Diet Explained | Dr. David Jenkins 08/10/2026

Lower Cholesterol With Food: The Portfolio Diet Explained | Dr. David Jenkins Can you lower LDL cholesterol by changing the foods you eat? Dr. David Jenkins, the pioneering nutrition researcher behind the Portfolio Diet, joins to explain how a carefully selected combination of foods may help bring cholesterol under control. Dr. Jenkins reveals why oats and barley may be particularly effective for , how their sticky soluble fiber interacts with bile acids, and why simply telling someone to “eat more fiber” may not be specific enough. You’ll also learn: The difference between LDL and HDL cholesterol Whether dietary cholesterol is necessary for good health How the Portfolio Diet was developed Why soy may lower LDL while replacing less healthy proteins The difference between fats from plants and animals Why nuts can be beneficial despite being high in fat and calories What extra-virgin olive oil may offer beyond unsaturated fat How plant-based eating can benefit human and planetary health Why partial dietary changes can still be meaningful How diet may be used alongside cholesterol-lowering medication Dr. Jenkins is a professor of medicine and nutritional sciences at the University of Toronto and one of the world’s leading researchers on diet, cholesterol, diabetes, plant protein, and soluble fiber. Hear more from Dr. Jenkins at the , Aug. 13–15, 2026, in Washington, D.C. 🎉 ICNM - Washington DC - 8/13-15 👉 Use code EXAMROOM100 to save $100 on tickets Exam Roomies of the Week Michelle Walker Steven Alongi Todd Lindley and Physicians Committee and hear your name mentioned on the show! This episode is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about any changes to your diet or lifestyle. - About Us - The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated actions of more than 175,000 members across the United States and around the world. /episode/index/show/examroom/id/42378450

Can’t Poop? Do This to Help Constipation | Dr. Will Bulsiewicz 08/06/2026

Can’t Poop? Do This to Help Constipation | Dr. Will Bulsiewicz Gastroenterologist Dr. Will Bulsiewicz returns with a complete guide to constipation, including the symptoms many people overlook even when they are having a bowel movement every day. Dr. B joins Chuck Carroll to explain the different patterns of constipation, including slow transit, pelvic-floor or outlet dysfunction, IBS with constipation, and the surprisingly common problem of a digestive system that has simply fallen out of rhythm. They also discuss the morning habits that may help train your body when to go, foods associated with constipation relief, magnesium and fiber supplements, questions surrounding long-term laxative use, and why a full colon can contribute to bloating, nausea, early fullness, and loss of appetite. Chuck shares his own experience after years of severe constipation and reveals the routine that has helped him become more regular while improving his bloating and appetite. 🧠 You'll learn: Why your bowel movements should generally follow a pattern How a morning routine may help train your body when to go The connection between constipation, bloating, nausea, and appetite Foods associated with constipation relief, including kiwi, prunes, and chia seeds The forms of magnesium Dr. B discusses for constipation Concerns surrounding long-term laxative use Why several days without a bowel movement followed by diarrhea may still be constipation How travel can throw your digestive system completely out of rhythm Plus, Dr. B explains why going several days without a bowel movement followed by diarrhea may still be a constipation problem. Exam Roomies of the Week Javier Santiago Dr. Mickey Witte Kimberly Cadieux Make a gift to support The Exam Room Podcast and the life-changing work of the Physicians Committee. 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 🩺 38 Tera DMN and RCE 👉 🩺 Dr. Will Bulsiewicz Courses 👉 🎉 Plant-Powered Party Las Vegas 👉 🎉 ICNM - Washington DC - 8/13-15 👉 This episode is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about any changes to your diet or lifestyle. - About Us - The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated actions of more than 175,000 members across the United States and around the world. /episode/index/show/examroom/id/42328940

When Healthy Eating Becomes Unhealthy | Dr. Matthew Lederman 08/04/2026

When Healthy Eating Becomes Unhealthy | Dr. Matthew Lederman Can trying to eat perfectly actually make you less healthy? Dr. Matthew Lederman joins Chuck Carroll to explore the hidden connection between food perfectionism, fear, chronic stress, gut health, sleep, and the nervous system. A nutritious diet remains an essential foundation for good health. But what happens when healthy choices are driven by anxiety? When a small amount of oil, salt, or sugar feels dangerous? Or when every unexplained symptom sends you searching for another food intolerance, supplement, or dietary rule? Dr. Lederman explains why two people can eat the same healthy meal while experiencing completely different physiological responses. One may be eating from joy and self-care. The other may be eating from fear—and that fear can keep the body locked in a state of heightened vigilance. Chuck also shares candid stories from his own health journey, including the years when strict food rules created additional stress and the relief he experienced after allowing himself greater flexibility. 🧠 You’ll learn: When discipline may actually be fear in disguise How stress and perceived danger can affect the gut Why a “perfect” diet cannot address every health problem The relationship between nervous-system regulation and sleep How to build healthy habits that feel sustainable and enjoyable Why health should make your life feel bigger—not smaller Dr. Matthew Lederman is a board-certified internal medicine physician, medical strategist, and Certified Trainer with the Center for Nonviolent Communication. Exam Roomies of the Week Kay Gustin Kathleen Herman Ruth Allstadt Make a gift to support The Exam Room Podcast and the life-changing work of the Physicians Committee. 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 🩺 Connection Docs 👉 🎉 Plant-Powered Party Las Vegas 👉 🎉 ICNM - Washington DC - 8/13-15 👉 This episode is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about any changes to your diet or lifestyle. - About Us - The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated actions of more than 175,000 members across the United States and around the world. /episode/index/show/examroom/id/42282155

Real Meat vs. Fake Meat: Which Is Healthier? | Dr. Neal Barnard 07/30/2026

Real Meat vs. Fake Meat: Which Is Healthier? | Dr. Neal Barnard Are Impossible Burgers and fake meats worse for you than a steak or hamburger? Dr. Neal Barnard joins Chuck Carroll on The Exam Room Podcast to examine one of today’s biggest nutrition debates. A veggie burger and a beef burger may both be classified as processed, but does that make them nutritionally equal? What about plant milk versus dairy milk, packaged cereal versus bacon and eggs, or a protein bar versus a cheeseburger? Dr. Barnard explains what “ultra-processed” actually means, why certain foods can encourage overeating, and whether the widely used NOVA classification system paints with too broad a brush. He also explores why saturated fat, cholesterol, fiber, calorie density, and a food’s source may matter just as much as—or more than—the number of ingredients on its label. 🧠 You’ll learn: Whether all ultra-processed foods are equally unhealthy How a veggie burger compares with a beef burger Whether plant-based meat and dairy alternatives are healthy Why ultra-processed foods may interfere with fullness Which additives and ingredients deserve a closer look The packaged plant-based foods Dr. Barnard considers reasonable choices What to look for first on a nutrition label How to make healthier choices when time and money are limited The conversation also previews the International Conference on Nutrition in Medicine, happening Aug. 13–15, 2026, in Washington, D.C. Dr. Barnard will be joined by more than 30 leading experts for presentations on ultra-processed foods, GLP-1 weight-loss drugs, diabetes, heart disease, the gut microbiome, pain, cancer prevention, kidney health, the new Dietary Guidelines, and much more. Exam Roomies of the Week Atchareeya Archatawan William Klein Sali Ortiz Make a gift to support The Exam Room Podcast and the life-changing work of the Physicians Committee. 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 🎉 ICNM - Washington DC - 8/13-15 👉 This episode is sponsored by The Gregory J. Reiter Memorial Fund, which supports organizations like the Physicians Committee that carry on Greg’s passion and love for animals through rescue efforts, veganism, and wildlife conservation. 🌱 Gregory J. Reiter Memorial Fund 👉 This episode is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about any changes to your diet or lifestyle. - About Us - The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated actions of more than 175,000 members across the United States and around the world. /episode/index/show/examroom/id/42258715

Food Addiction Is Real: How to Break Cravings | Susan Peirce Thompson, PhD 07/28/2026

Food Addiction Is Real: How to Break Cravings | Susan Peirce Thompson, PhD Junk food was harder for Susan Peirce Thompson to quit than crack cocaine. The founder and CEO of Bright Line Eating joins Chuck Carroll for a deeply personal conversation about food addiction, compulsive eating, cravings, and long-term weight loss. Susan shares her remarkable journey from crystal meth and crack addiction to becoming a PhD and internationally recognized expert in the psychology of eating. She explains why food addiction can be uniquely difficult to overcome when triggers are everywhere and eating remains necessary for survival. Chuck also revisits his own addiction-driven 10,000-calorie days, including a daily Taco Bell meal containing more than 4,000 calories. Together, they explore the foods that may be most addictive, dopamine downregulation, ultra-processed foods, the return of cravings years into recovery, and the personal guardrails that can help someone finally break free. Susan also shares lessons from her book Maintain and explains why lasting weight loss is not simply about completing a diet. It requires a fundamental shift in identity and becoming devoted to the habits that support your health. Susan also explains why a person’s recovery plan must be individualized and why occasionally experiencing a craving does not mean that years of progress have been lost. Chuck and Susan will be speaking at the Plant Powered Party in Las Vegas with Chef AJ, Dr. Will Bulsiewicz and many others. Tickets are available now for the Labor Day weekend bash. Exam Roomies of the Week Peggy Fuchs Monna Throop Kathleen Adamson Make a gift to support The Exam Room Podcast and the life-changing work of the Physicians Committee. 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 📕 Maintain Book 👉 ❓Food Addiction Quiz 👉 🍽️ Bright Line Eating 👉 🎉 Plant-Powered Party Las Vegas 👉 This episode is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about any changes to your diet or lifestyle. - About Us - The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated actions of more than 175,000 members across the United States and around the world. /episode/index/show/examroom/id/42232625

Why Modern Medicine Isn’t Making Us Healthy | Drs. Joel Fuhrman & Columbus Batiste 07/22/2026

Raw Milk and Cow Hearts: Dr. Neal Barnard on Soccer Star's Dangerous Diet 07/16/2026

Raw Milk and Cow Hearts: Dr. Neal Barnard on Soccer Star's Dangerous Diet Erling Haaland eats six meals and roughly 6,000 calories every day to fuel his extraordinary performance on the soccer field. But should anyone else be eating like him? Haaland’s highly publicized routine includes raw milk, beef liver, cow heart, steak, eggs, fish, pasta, vegetables, and honey. In this episode of The Exam Room Podcast, Dr. Neal Barnard joins “The Weight Loss Champion” Chuck Carroll to examine whether the foods powering one of the world’s greatest athletes could create serious health risks for the average person. Dr. Barnard explores the immediate food-safety concerns surrounding raw milk and the potential problems associated with regularly consuming organ meats. Could highly concentrated amounts of dietary cholesterol, heme iron, vitamin A, and copper become too much of a good thing? 🧠 You will also learn: Why an elite athlete may require thousands more calories than the average person Whether eating six meals a day provides a metabolic advantage The difference between short-term athletic performance and long-term health Why looking lean and powerful does not necessarily reveal what is happening inside the body Healthier ways to fuel exercise, recovery, strength, and endurance This is not about criticizing Haaland’s talent or discipline. It is about understanding why a diet created for an extraordinary athlete should not automatically become a nutrition plan for everyone else. Exam Roomies of the Week Roy Wessbecher LuAnne Siwiec Isabel Fernandes, PhD Make a gift to support The Exam Room Podcast and the life-changing work of the Physicians Committee. 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 This episode is sponsored by The Gregory J. Reiter Memorial Fund, which supports organizations like the Physicians Committee that carry on Greg’s passion and love for animals through rescue efforts, veganism, and wildlife conservation. 🌱 Gregory J. Reiter Memorial Fund 👉 🎉 ICNM - Washington DC - 8/13-15 👉 EXAMROOM100 to save $100 on tickets! This episode is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about any changes to your diet or lifestyle. - About Us - The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated actions of more than 175,000 members across the United States and around the world. /episode/index/show/examroom/id/42104980

She Survived a Mass Shooting, Then Cancer | Krista Ryan 07/13/2026

She Survived a Mass Shooting, Then Cancer | Krista Ryan Krista Ryan survived the mass shooting at the Route 91 Harvest Music Festival in Las Vegas. Years later, she faced another life-altering challenge when she was diagnosed with stage 3 rectal cancer. Four surgeries, chemotherapy, an ileostomy, and a difficult recovery followed. But Krista kept going. She joins Chuck Carroll to share the resilience philosophy she calls KFG: Know, Focus, Go. The initials also carry another, considerably more forceful meaning that captures the determination required to move forward when life becomes unimaginably difficult. Krista explains why true resilience does not mean hiding fear or pretending that everything is fine. She shares how allowing herself to feel anger, grief, and vulnerability ultimately gave her more strength. You will also hear how a brief conversation with another cancer survivor prompted Krista to seek testing, what it was like to tell her children about the diagnosis, how humor helped her through treatment, and why even the smallest action can be a meaningful act of perseverance. This episode is for anyone living with illness, recovering from trauma, supporting someone they love, or searching for the courage to write the next chapter of their story. Exam Roomies of the Week Jennifer Rogers Danica Brooks X-tine Goodreau Make a gift to support The Exam Room Podcast and the life-changing work of the Physicians Committee. 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 📕 KFG Book 👉 💪 Krista Ryan 👉 PCRM Cancer Resources 👉 This episode is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about any changes to your diet or lifestyle. - About Us - The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated actions of more than 175,000 members across the United States and around the world. /episode/index/show/examroom/id/42061340

What Your Doctor Isn’t Telling You About Food | Dr. Alan Desmond 07/08/2026

What Your Doctor Isn’t Telling You About Food | Dr. Alan Desmond A leading gastroenterologist reveals that many doctors are never taught about food, nutrition, and the diseases that can been prevented with diet education. Dr. Alan Desmond joins Chuck Carroll on The Exam Room Podcast to discuss his new book, What Your Doctor Isn’t Telling You About Food, and the conversations he believes every doctor should be having with patients. Why do so many doctors avoid talking about nutrition? Are carbs really bad for you? Should healthy people worry about glucose spikes? Do GLP-1 medications fix the root problem? And what does the gut microbiome have to do with heart disease, diabetes, obesity, inflammation, and long-term health? 🧠 You will learn: The food conversations doctors and patients should be having Why nutrition training is still limited in medical school How food became a major driver of chronic disease The truth about carbs and blood sugar spikes What GLP-1 medications can and cannot do Why “30 plants a week” is helpful but not magic The role of fiber, legumes, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables How diet can work alongside modern medicine Why gut health remains central to overall health Dr. Desmond also discusses the science behind plant-based nutrition, the power of simple dietary changes, and why building a healthier food environment may be one of the most important steps anyone can take. Exam Roomies of the Week Eric Knepper Christina Clifford Make a gift to support The Exam Room Podcast and the life-changing work of the Physicians Committee. 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 📕 What Your Doctor Isn't Telling You About Food 👉 🩺 Dr. Alan Desmond 👉 🎉 ICNM - Washington DC - 8/13-15 👉 This episode is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about any changes to your diet or lifestyle. - About Us - The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated actions of more than 175,000 members across the United States and around the world. /episode/index/show/examroom/id/42015040

Brain Tumor Diagnosis Changed How Top Doctor Sees Health Care | Dr. Bobby Mukkamala 07/06/2026

Brain Tumor Diagnosis Changed How Top Doctor Sees Health Care | Dr. Bobby Mukkamala The president of the American Medical Association became the patient after being diagnosed with a large brain tumor. Dr. Bobby Mukkamala, immediate past president of the AMA, joins Chuck Carroll on The Exam Room Podcast for a powerful and deeply personal conversation about how his diagnosis changed the way he sees health care, medicine, prevention, access, and the patient experience. Dr. Mukkamala opens up about being diagnosed with a grade 2 astrocytoma, the shock of seeing an eight-centimeter brain tumor on his scan, and what it felt like to suddenly experience the health care system from the other side of the exam room. He also reflects on the extraordinary care he received at Mayo Clinic and the difficult reality that most people do not have access to that same level of care. The conversation also explores the crushing cost of medication, including a new treatment that can cost nearly $900 per day, and why medical bills remain such a devastating burden for so many families. Chuck and Dr. Mukkamala also discuss lifestyle medicine, plant-based nutrition, the future of health care, dietary guidelines, health equity, and why progress can still be powerful even when perfection is not realistic. This interview was recorded at the Lotus Health Foundation Symposium in Rochester, Minnesota, just days before Chuck’s major surgery at Mayo Clinic. At the time of the conversation, Dr. Mukkamala was still serving as president of the American Medical Association. Topics discussed include: What happens when a doctor becomes the patient Brain tumor diagnosis and recovery The emotional impact of serious illness Health care access and inequality The high cost of prescription medication Mayo Clinic and world-class care Lifestyle medicine and disease prevention Plant-based nutrition and health The role of doctors in improving public health Why progress over perfection matters Exam Roomies of the Week Carol Kimsey MJ Donahue Tomi Gail Lemmen Make a gift to support The Exam Room Podcast and the life-changing work of the Physicians Committee: PCRM.org/SupportExamRoom 🙏 Support The Exam Room Podcast & PCRM 👉 🎉 ICNM - Washington DC - 8/13-15 👉 🌱 Lotus Health Foundation 👉 This episode is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about any changes to your diet or lifestyle. - About Us - The Physicians Committee is dedicated to saving lives through plant-based diets and ethical and effective scientific research. We combine the clout and expertise of more than 17,000 physicians with the dedicated actions of more than 175,000 members across the United States and around the world. /episode/index/show/examroom/id/41975970

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