Field Notes: An Exploration of Functional Medicine
Bringing you the leaders in Functional and Integrative Medicine, Dr. Rob Downey explores the cutting edge protocols and strategies to reclaim health and create a better life, from the inside out.
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Why Food Isn’t Enough: The Hidden Key to Healing
11/18/2025
Why Food Isn’t Enough: The Hidden Key to Healing
In this episode of the Fieldnotes podcast, Dr. Rob Downey interviews naturopathic doctor Sarah Love about why nutrition alone often fails to resolve modern health issues. Sarah explains that despite patients following excellent diets, chronic stress, lack of breaks, and sympathetic overdrive frequently block healing. She emphasizes the importance of intentional rest, reconnecting with nature, and stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system. Her clinical experience led her back to herbal medicine and the creation of her own caffeine-free tea blends designed to support relaxation, gut health, cognitive clarity, and daily rituals that restore vitality. The conversation highlights simple, “common-sense” lifestyle practices — like scheduled breaks, outdoor time, and herbal tea — as essential foundations for wellness. Timestamps: 02:40 – Diet alone not healing patients. 04:54 – Break culture urgently needs revival. 06:43 – Breaks must be truly restorative. 13:48 – Herbal teas reintroduced into practice. 21:39 – Gut drives overall body health. _______________________________________________________________________ Key Takeaways: Breaks are essential for true healing. Stress blocks digestion and vitality. Nature exposure boosts parasympathetic activity. Herbal teas support gut and mind. Simple habits outperform complex interventions.
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Hypnosis + Hormones: The Unexpected Female Reset
11/11/2025
Hypnosis + Hormones: The Unexpected Female Reset
In this episode of the Fieldnotes podcast, Dr. Downey interviews Natalie Lund and opens up about her unexpected journey through perimenopause and how it forced her to rewrite long-held beliefs about her body and identity. She shares how she experienced medical gaslighting when her symptoms were dismissed, and how she found real relief through hormone therapy and the mindset-shifting technique of rapid transformational therapy (RTT). She explores how hypnosis and RTT helped her reclaim control over her life, reset her mental and physical state, and begin seeing her femininity and wellbeing in a completely new way. The conversation offers raw personal testimony, practical tools for women navigating hormonal chaos, and a message that transformation is possible when you stop trying to live by old rules. Timestaps: (00:05:12) Realizing the symptoms meant perimenopause (00:18:45) Doctors dismissed her pain and fog (00:29:33) Discovering RTT & hypnosis as tools (00:41:20) Hormone therapy changed her outlook (00:55:10) Reclaiming identity beyond physical symptoms ____________________________________________________________________________ Key Takeaways: Hormonal life changes demand identity transformation Medical dismissal doesn’t mean symptoms aren’t real RTT and hypnosis changed her internal narrative Hormone therapy unlocked physical and mental clarity Reclaiming femininity starts with redefining self
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Stop Searching Outside Yourself for Healing—Your Body Already Knows The Way with Dr. Marissa Heisel
11/06/2025
Stop Searching Outside Yourself for Healing—Your Body Already Knows The Way with Dr. Marissa Heisel
In this episode of the Fieldnotes Podcast, Dr. Rob Downey speaks with Dr. Marissa Heisel—a chiropractor and midwife—about the importance of trusting our body’s innate wisdom and recognizing that true healing begins from within. She shares how modern society, particularly for women, has conditioned us to depend on external authorities rather than our own intuition. Through her experiences in chiropractic, midwifery, and holistic care, Dr. Heisel emphasizes the power of self-trust, simplicity, and returning to natural grounding practices to restore vitality and sovereignty over one’s health. (00:02) Introduction to Dr. Marissa Heisel and the theme of self-healing (02:11) Her transition from conventional medicine to holistic practice (03:48) Core philosophy: “You are your own best medicine” (08:24) How cultural conditioning undermines women’s body wisdom (32:05) Practical guidance—using breath and nature to reconnect to inner balance Key Takeaways We are both our own best expert and our most powerful healer. Cultural conditioning often erodes self-trust, leading to overreliance on external validation. True healing begins by simplifying—removing noise and reconnecting with the body’s signals. Mindful breathing and grounding in nature are accessible ways to restore inner clarity and resilience. Learn more about Dr. Marissa here:
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How the Power of Smell Can Heal Mind and Body
10/28/2025
How the Power of Smell Can Heal Mind and Body
In this episode of the Fieldnotes Podcast, Dr. Rob Downey speaks with Jodi Cohen, founder of Vibrant Blue Oils, about the transformative power of essential oils on the brain and nervous system. Cohen recounts her personal journey, showing how scent can help regulate the vagus nerve, restore parasympathetic balance, and support emotional healing. She explains the direct neurological link between smell and safety, how scent can rewire stress responses, and why essential oils like clove, lime, and rose can serve as simple yet profound tools for trauma recovery, anxiety relief, and nervous-system regulation. Timestamps: (01:18) Started using oils for sleep (03:50) Discovered vagus-nerve stress connection (05:57) Created clove-lime parasympathetic blend (12:49) Used rose oil to heal grief (27:15) Linked neck fascia to relaxation ____________________________________________________________________________ Key Takeaways: Smell directly accesses the brain. Oils can shift stress to calm. The vagus nerve controls healing. Grief inspired powerful emotional blends. Regulation begins with the parasympathetic system.
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Connect to Nature: The Simple 'Medicine' Doctors Forget
10/08/2025
Connect to Nature: The Simple 'Medicine' Doctors Forget
In this episode of the Fieldnotes podcast, Dr. Rob Downey is joined by Dr. Michael Blahut, a family practice physician with integrative training, to discuss his philosophy that the life you live is your medicine. Dr. Blahut emphasizes that lifestyle and our connection to the natural world are the most potent forms of medicine, going beyond supplements and testing. The conversation centers on restoring the body's original biological blueprint by tapping into nature's wisdom through simple practices. They explore the critical roles of natural light and the circadian rhythm in health, discussing the benefits of sun exposure and the use of tools like blue blockers. Finally, they delve into the power of sound and frequency for nervous system regulation and the profound importance of belief, purpose, and community as fundamental, root causes of health and well-being. Timestamps: (01:05) Lifestyle is the wellspring of health. (03:04) Life you live is medicine. (04:51) Get outside; get natural sunlight. (26:54) Sound shifts nervous system state. (33:20) Purpose, community matter most. _______________________________________________________________________ Key Takeaways: Your life, not pills, is the medicine. Restore your body's natural health blueprint. Daily sun exposure regulates your health. Sound and rhythm heal the nervous system. Purpose and community are the best medicine.
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The Gut–Heart Connection Your Doctor Missed
10/01/2025
The Gut–Heart Connection Your Doctor Missed
In this episode, Dr. Rob Downey speaks with Angie Gallagher—an exercise physiologist and integrative health coach with over 25 years of experience in cardiac rehab—about why conventional heart care is missing the mark. Angie shares how her frustration with recurring cardiac events in patients led her to explore functional medicine approaches, integrating gut health, nervous system regulation, and metabolic markers into her practice. The conversation dives into overlooked lab tests, the gut–heart axis, HeartMath for nervous system balance, and why managing stress and blood sugar may be more important than cholesterol. Angie’s holistic approach redefines what it means to truly protect the heart. Timestamps: 01:15 – Angie’s shift from conventional care 05:40 – Key labs doctors often miss 10:20 – Gut inflammation linked to heart disease 13:30 – HeartMath improves nervous system balance 18:45 – Blood sugar more critical than cholesterol _______________________________________________________________________ Key Takeaways: Gut health directly impacts heart health Blood sugar drives endothelial damage HeartMath balances stress and HRV Standard tests miss root cause markers Nature and breathwork support heart healing
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Food, Mood & The Gut-Brain Connection with Dr. Melissa Mondala
09/25/2025
Food, Mood & The Gut-Brain Connection with Dr. Melissa Mondala
In this powerful episode of the Fieldnotes Podcast, Dr. Rob Downey sits down with Dr. Melissa Mondala to explore how food, lifestyle, and the gut-brain-immune connection can transform mental health. From her own journey overcoming IBS and acne to helping her husband manage autoimmune disease, Dr. Mondala reveals how simple, evidence-based changes can spark profound healing. She shares insights on why nutrition can be as effective as antidepressants, how sleep and exercise influence mood, and the hidden impact of substances and environmental toxins. If you’ve ever wondered how lifestyle choices shape your mind, body, and resilience, this episode offers a hopeful roadmap for lasting vitality. Key takeaways: The gut produces 90% of neurotransmitters, directly linking digestion, immunity, and mood. Plant-based eating and stress reduction resolved Dr. Mandala’s IBS and improved her husband’s autoimmune symptoms. Nutritional counseling can achieve remission rates for depression equal to or better than SSRIs. Short, frequent “exercise snacks” throughout the day boost energy, mood, and clarity. Sleep, environmental toxins, and even sensitivity to noise all play major roles in mental health.
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Post Betrayal Transformation with Dr. Debi Silber
08/27/2025
Post Betrayal Transformation with Dr. Debi Silber
In this episode of the Fieldnotes podcast, Dr. Rob Downey speaks with Dr. Debi Silber, founder of the Post Betrayal Transformation Institute, about the profound and often misunderstood impact of betrayal on physical, emotional, and psychological health. Dr. Silber shares her personal experience with family and marital betrayal that led her to conduct doctoral research on the topic, resulting in the identification of Post-Betrayal Syndrome and a five-stage healing process. She emphasizes that betrayal doesn’t resolve with time alone and presents shocking statistics on how it manifests in the body. The conversation highlights the importance of moving beyond survival mode, establishing boundaries, and embracing forgiveness at the right stage of healing. Her initiative, National Forgiveness Day, also underscores the power of intentional, guided emotional recovery. Timestamps: (01:23) Time doesn’t heal betrayal wounds. (02:13) Betrayal breaks spoken, unspoken rules. (05:24) Personal power loss affects healing. (13:02) Healing has five predictable stages. (33:19) Forgiveness accelerates when timed right. _______________________________________________________________________ Key Takeaways: Betrayal impacts mind, body, and spirit. Time alone doesn’t heal betrayal trauma. Healing follows five defined transformation stages. Survival mode can block true recovery. Forgiveness works—but only when ready.
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Podcast Rewind: A New Era In Health and Healing with Dr. Elena Villanueva
08/13/2025
Podcast Rewind: A New Era In Health and Healing with Dr. Elena Villanueva
In this powerful "Podcast Rewind" episode of Field Notes Podcast, Dr. Elena Villanueva joins Dr. Rob Downey to explore a transformative approach to healing that blends functional medicine, quantum science, and emotional wellness. Dr. V discusses how chronic conditions like diabetes, fatigue, and mental health struggles often stem from unresolved trauma, stress, and neurological imbalances—not just physical factors. Through case studies, personal experiences, and cutting-edge insights, she shares how deep healing becomes possible when we address the mind, body, and spirit together. The episode offers both inspiration and actionable wisdom for anyone ready to go beyond the pill and reclaim their vitality. Timestamps: (02:35) Doctors lack root cause training (10:53) Neurological rewiring unlocks healing power (14:59) Stress triggered diabetes and hypertension (19:19) Rapid shifts: mind, body, spirit (38:58) Inner child work deepens self-love _______________________________________________________________________ Key Takeaways: True healing requires root cause awareness Quantum science enhances traditional medicine Emotional stress causes physical illness Inner child work restores self-worth Functional medicine can reverse chronic conditions
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Holistic Hashimoto’s Care: Functional Medicine Insights
08/06/2025
Holistic Hashimoto’s Care: Functional Medicine Insights
In this episode of the Fieldnotes Podcast, Dr. Rob Downey sits down with nurse and holistic health expert Esther Yunkin to explore Hashimoto’s and hypothyroidism. Esther shares her journey from working in the ER to embracing a functional medicine and holistic approach, emphasizing the importance of looking at the body, mind, and spirit as a whole. They discuss the root causes of thyroid dysfunction, common misdiagnoses, lab testing strategies, and practical lifestyle adjustments to manage stress and autoimmunity. Esther provides actionable advice for patients to take agency in their health and simplify complex care plans, highlighting her own holistic practices and self-paced program. Timestamps: 00:02 – Introduction to Esther Yunkin 06:51 – Importance of thyroid lab testing 10:03 – Ask why thyroid labs abnormal 21:36 – Stress and autoimmunity interplay 37:08 – Low vitamin D triggers discussed _______________________________________________________________________ Key Takeaways: Root causes key to thyroid health Labs empower patient health decisions Stress fuels autoimmunity, complicates thyroid Simplicity aids sustainable lifestyle changes Vitamin D often overlooked trigger
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The Biology of Trauma: Heal Your Nervous System Now
08/05/2025
The Biology of Trauma: Heal Your Nervous System Now
In this powerful episode of the Fieldnotes Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Aimie Apigian to explore the cutting-edge science behind trauma and how it's stored in the body—not as a memory of events, but as an internal biology of overwhelm. Dr. Aimie shares personal stories and clinical insights about how unresolved trauma shapes chronic illness, anxiety, and depression, while offering hope through somatic healing and nervous system repair. We discuss her upcoming book, The Biology of Trauma, why movement is essential, how early life stress imprints us, and what it truly takes to reset our systems and reclaim vitality. Whether you're a practitioner, patient, or simply curious, this conversation redefines what healing can look like. Timestamps: 04:03 Trauma = internal overwhelm, not event 09:40 Chronic illness linked to stored overwhelm 13:16 Movement clears adrenaline, resets safety 18:35 Early stress leaves lasting imprint 36:48 Somatic work resolves stored panic _______________________________________________________________________ Key Takeaways: Trauma lives in biology, not memory Overwhelm leads to chronic health issues Movement discharges stress hormones effectively Early experiences shape lifelong stress patterns Healing starts with your nervous system
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The Shocking Environmental Triggers Behind Chronic Illness
07/23/2025
The Shocking Environmental Triggers Behind Chronic Illness
In this episode of the Fieldnotes Podcast, Dr. Rob Downey interviews environmental health coach Jenny Johnson, who shares her personal and professional journey into the world of environmental toxicity, particularly mold exposure and Lyme disease. Jenny recounts how her family's move to an organic farm for a healthier lifestyle ironically led to severe illness due to hidden environmental biotoxins. Drawing from her recovery experience and advanced training under experts like Dr. Shoemaker and Dr. Bredesen, Jenny now empowers others with practical tools, testing strategies, and coaching to uncover the root causes of chronic illness. She highlights how chronic inflammation, often driven by environmental triggers, is frequently misdiagnosed, and stresses the importance of personalized healing plans and nervous system regulation in true recovery. Timestamps: (03:41) Family hit hard by mold exposure (05:05) Son’s neurodivergence reversed post-detox (15:00) Mold is more than mold (21:28) Chronic inflammation mimics many diseases (43:02) DIY mold tests empower families _______________________________________________________________________ Key Takeaways: Mold exposure often hides in plain sight Chronic illness can stem from environment Testing empowers informed health decisions Nervous system health drives recovery Personalized plans beat one-size-fits-all fixes
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Unlocking Trauma: How Healing Really Works
07/15/2025
Unlocking Trauma: How Healing Really Works
In this episode of the Fieldnotes Podcast, Dr. Rob Downey speaks with Dana and Colleen, co-founders of The Digital Dojo, about trauma, healing, and personal transformation. They explore how trauma—both acute and subtle—can be stored in the body and inherited across generations. Through a unique fusion of traditional Chinese medicine, martial arts principles, and performance coaching, they share practical frameworks like NAP (“repeat after me” method) to help individuals safely engage with and heal from trauma. The conversation also covers distinctions between self-worth and self-esteem, and how finding one’s “why” can drive meaningful change. Timestamps: (00:47) Trauma blocks wellness and healing efforts. (03:10) Talking unlocks hidden trauma patterns. (06:34) Trauma = unmet resources in moment. (08:15) Inherited trauma via ancestral chi. (17:12) NAP technique prevents emotional flooding. _______________________________________________________________________ Key Takeaways: Trauma can be multigenerational and subtle. Healing requires emotional safety, not force. NAP helps process trauma gently. Self-worth matters more than esteem. Purpose fuels commitment to healing
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The Psychiatrist Who Helps You Get Off Meds
07/08/2025
The Psychiatrist Who Helps You Get Off Meds
In this episode of the Fieldnotes podcast, Dr. Downey interviews integrative psychiatrist Dr. Michael Broukhim, who shares his transformative journey from personal loss to pioneering holistic mental health care. Motivated by the death of his father and a mystical hospital experience, Dr. Broukhim embraced energy healing, osteopathic medicine, and integrative psychiatry. He now helps patients safely taper off psychiatric medications by addressing root causes through lifestyle changes, trauma work, and community connection. The conversation critiques modern psychiatry's overreliance on meds and highlights the healing power of presence, emotional safety, and spiritual practices. Timestaps: (02:43) Father’s hidden cancer shapes purpose (06:09) Turn to integrative psychiatry begins (10:02) Critiques rushed, med-focused psychiatry (22:14) Steps for safe med tapering (33:13) Practical healing tools: nature, touch ____________________________________________________________________________ Key Takeaways: Healing requires presence, not prescriptions. Psychiatry overlooks root emotional issues. Safe tapering needs lifestyle support. Spirituality can drive real transformation. Connection and curiosity heal deepest wounds.
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Food, Connection & Climate: A Doctor’s Wake-Up Call
07/02/2025
Food, Connection & Climate: A Doctor’s Wake-Up Call
In this episode of the Fieldnotes podcast, Dr. Rob Downey speaks with Dr. Colin Zhu—a family and lifestyle medicine physician, chef, and health coach—about the powerful role food plays in shaping personal well-being, community connection, and planetary sustainability. Drawing from his upbringing under a Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner and his diverse medical background, Dr. Zhu explains how disconnection from our food sources has widespread health and ecological consequences. He emphasizes that food is more than nourishment—it's a love language, a tool for healing, and a reflection of our relationship with ourselves and the planet. Together, they discuss how mindfulness, meaningful relationships, and small daily choices can catalyze major transformations in individual and collective health. Timestamps: (00:55) Food connects us across all levels (04:30) Food is emotional and political (07:04) DOs embrace holistic mind-body healing (10:32) Livestock drives rainforest destruction (17:23) Relationships predict health and longevity ____________________________________________________________________________ Key Takeaways: Food is love, culture, and identity. Disconnection from food harms health. Lifestyle medicine treats root causes. Small habits create lasting change. Wellness thrives through collective action.
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Doctors Dismissed My UTI Pain—This Changed Everything
06/03/2025
Doctors Dismissed My UTI Pain—This Changed Everything
In this episode of the Seaworthy Podcast, Dr. Rob Downey interviews women's health coach Saoirse Nash about her personal journey with chronic urinary tract infections (UTIs) and the broader systemic issues surrounding women's healthcare. Saoirse shares how recurring UTIs in her youth were normalized and dismissed, leading to years of inadequate treatment until she took control of her health through holistic and functional approaches. The discussion explores the intersection of anatomy, immune and gut health, poor diagnostic tools, and the role of chronic stress and environmental toxins in women’s health. Together, they emphasize the importance of patient empowerment, lifestyle changes, and the need for better research and advocacy—highlighting organizations like Live UTI Free that offer critical support and information. Timestamps: (00:00) UTIs common, especially in women (01:51) Saoirse’s health journey begins with UTIs (06:25) Gut health linked to immune defense (08:13) Standard UTI tests often fail (30:35) Trust your body and instincts ____________________________________________________________________________ Key Takeaways: Chronic UTIs are often misdiagnosed and undertreated. Gut health is vital for immune defense. Stress and trauma impact physical health deeply. Women’s symptoms are too often normalized. Trust your body—advocate for better care.
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From IBS to Healing: Courtney Cowie’s Gut Health Journey
05/14/2025
From IBS to Healing: Courtney Cowie’s Gut Health Journey
In this episode of the "Fieldnotes" podcast, Dr. Rob Downey interviews Courtney Cowie, a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner and certified coach, about her personal and professional journey through chronic gut health issues, including IBS, IBD, mold toxicity, and Lyme disease. Courtney shares her powerful origin story—from childhood stomach aches and years of ineffective conventional treatments to her transformative experience with Chinese medicine in Japan and her eventual embrace of functional medicine. Together, they explore the critical role of functional testing, the gut-brain connection, and the importance of root-cause approaches in healing chronic digestive conditions. Courtney also highlights how personalized testing, diet, and trauma-informed care can empower patients to regain their health and vitality. Timestamps: 00:48) Courtney discusses her IBS diagnosis (05:00) Bathroom stops planned during runs (06:11) Herbalist urges eating meat (14:31) Microscopic colitis finally diagnosed (17:17) Mold toxicity and Lyme uncovered ____________________________________________________________________________ Key Takeaways: Chronic gut issues often start in childhood. Conventional medicine may overlook root causes. Functional testing reveals hidden gut dysfunction. Mold and Lyme can mimic IBS symptoms. Diet, stress, and trauma impact digestion deeply.
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Beat Allergies Naturally: Doctor-Recommended Secrets
04/30/2025
Beat Allergies Naturally: Doctor-Recommended Secrets
In this episode, Dr. Rob Downey welcomes Dr. Darin Ingels, a naturopathic doctor and expert in environmental and allergy medicine, to discuss alternative and functional approaches to managing allergies. Dr. Ingels explains how conventional allergy treatments, like shots, often fail to address the root causes of immune overreaction. He explores lesser-known but effective methods such as sublingual immunotherapy and Low Dose Allergen (LDA) therapy, which aim to retrain the immune system for long-term relief. The conversation highlights how allergies can manifest in surprising ways, even affecting mood and cognition, and emphasizes the need for personalized, root-cause solutions beyond standard protocols. Timestamps: (00:29) Dr. Ingels joins allergy discussion. (02:42) Alternatives to allergy shots explained. (06:04) Allergies affect brain and behavior. (17:48) Immune therapy improves depression symptoms. (26:48) Remote testing and treatment possible. _______________________________________________________________________________ Key Takeaways: Allergies are immune system overreactions. Standard allergy tests can miss triggers. Sublingual therapy is safe and effective. Allergies can affect brain and mood. Root-cause treatment leads to long-term relief.
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How One Patient’s Recovery Redefined My Practice
04/23/2025
How One Patient’s Recovery Redefined My Practice
In this powerful episode of Field Notes – Dr. Rob Case Studies 2, Dr. Rob Downey shares the deeply personal story that led him into functional medicine: a patient suffering from severe psoriatic arthritis, depression, and fatigue, who had exhausted all conventional treatment options. Her transformation through botanical medicine and holistic care became a turning point in Dr. Rob’s career, igniting his passion to explore root-cause healing. The episode explores how lifestyle interventions—like an anti-inflammatory diet, stress reduction, and gut repair—can reverse chronic disease and restore hope. Dr. Rob also unpacks the science of leaky gut and autoimmunity in accessible, empowering language that inspires both practitioners and patients alike. Key Takeaways: A case of psoriatic arthritis reversal using functional medicine became the catalyst for Dr. Rob’s career shift. The patient improved 50–75% through a botanical protocol (Boswellia, Curcumin, Quercetin) and naturopathic care. Chronic symptoms included depression, fatigue, pain, and functional disability—impacting every area of life. Functional medicine emphasizes systems-based healing: anti-inflammatory nutrition, stress management, and supplements. Dr. Rob explains leaky gut with vivid metaphors and highlights its role in triggering autoimmune diseases. You can learn more about the Case Studies event here:
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Your Health Journey Starts With Peace.
04/09/2025
Your Health Journey Starts With Peace.
In this episode, Dr. Rob Downey and Joe Rignola explore the profound link between peace and health. Dr. Rob discusses the importance of cultivating peace to achieve vitality, presenting the science behind stress and its impact on our physical and emotional well-being. He emphasizes how maintaining inner peace can regulate bodily functions such as digestion, immunity, and cognitive clarity. The episode also introduces practical tools like heart rate variability devices and supplements like ashwagandha for enhancing peace, underscoring the critical role of safety—both physical and emotional—in achieving peace. Listeners are encouraged to take proactive steps toward peace through mindfulness practices, positive psychology, and self-care. Timestamps: (00:00) Introduction to Dr. Rob and Joe (02:28) Importance of peace vs. food (06:31) Cultivating peace through self-care (11:15) Heart rate variability as peace tool (22:56) Supplements for peace available ____________________________________________________________________________ Key Takeaways: Peace is Central to Health. Stress Management Affects Vital Functions. The Role of the Nervous System. Mindfulness Practices and Tools Help. Safety is Essential for Peace.
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Overcoming Chronic Pain Through the Subconscious Mind
04/02/2025
Overcoming Chronic Pain Through the Subconscious Mind
In this episode of the podcast, Dr. Rob Downey speaks with Jenny Harkleroad, an expert in functional medicine and wellness. Jenny shares her personal journey of overcoming chronic pain and discovering the powerful connection between the mind and body. After suffering a severe back injury, she explored alternative healing methods, including muscle testing and subconscious work, which helped her identify emotional pain manifesting as physical pain. She discusses her transformation from a successful real estate career to founding her wellness company, Balanced You, and how she now helps others overcome pain by addressing the root causes within the subconscious. The episode emphasizes the importance of mental and emotional health in healing chronic pain. Timestamps: (00:00) Rob introduces chronic pain topic. (02:24) Jenny’s back injury leads to transformation. (08:00) Pain revealed as emotional, not physical. (16:00) Subconscious work helps eliminate pain. (38:52) Jenny’s app and wellness resources. _______________________________________________________________________________ Key Takeaways: Chronic pain may have emotional roots. The subconscious mind is a powerful tool for healing . Pain can be a signal for life changes. Subconscious reprogramming can transform relationships. Healing doesn’t require struggle.
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Choosing the Right Foods for Cardiac Health | Steven Masley, MD
02/25/2025
Choosing the Right Foods for Cardiac Health | Steven Masley, MD
In this episode of Field Notes, Dr. Steven Masley, a physician, nutritionist, and expert in functional medicine, joins host Dr. Rob Downey to discuss the critical role of diet and lifestyle in preventing and reversing heart disease. Dr. Masley shares his insights on how heart health can be significantly improved through simple, actionable changes, such as consuming "smart fats," minimizing sugar intake, and incorporating probiotics. He emphasizes the power of real, minimally processed foods and discusses how incorporating Mediterranean and plant-based diets can reduce risk factors like high blood sugar and inflammation. The conversation highlights how people can take control of their health and prevent heart disease and other chronic conditions through sustainable lifestyle changes. Timestamps: (00:40) Dr. Masley discusses heart disease prevention. (03:04) Mediterranean diet and longevity insights. (05:03) Key heart-healthy foods for improvement. (09:21) Importance of reducing sugar and sweeteners. (19:47) Mediterranean diet's long-term benefits. ________________________________________________________________________________________ Key Takeaways: Heart disease is preventable with simple lifestyle changes Incorporating Mediterranean and plant-based diets can reduce risk factors Healthy fats and probiotics play a vital role in heart health Reducing sugar and sweeteners is key to prevention Gut health is critical for maintaining a healthy heart
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Top Energy Doc Reveals His Best Tips for Overcoming Your Fatigue with Evan Hirsch, MD
02/11/2025
Top Energy Doc Reveals His Best Tips for Overcoming Your Fatigue with Evan Hirsch, MD
In this podcast episode, Dr. Rob Downey and Dr. Evan Hirsch discuss the intricacies of chronic fatigue syndrome, long COVID, and how to restore energy and vitality. Dr. Hirsch shares his journey from experiencing chronic fatigue to developing a program to help others reclaim their energy. They discuss the root causes of fatigue, including toxins, heavy metals, mold, infections, and nervous system dysfunction. The episode also delves into the importance of understanding energy systems and the impact of stressors on overall health. Additionally, Dr. Hirsch explains the comprehensive approach of his program, emphasizing personalized treatment over testing, and how lifestyle changes and nervous system retraining can lead to lasting health improvements. Timestamps: (00:01) Dr. Downey introduces Dr. Evan Hirsch. (02:02) Chronic fatigue and long COVID overlap. (05:57) Toxic 5 causes fatigue and burnout. (10:53) Adrenal and mitochondrial dysfunction discussed. (36:49) Dr. Hirsch offers a free consultation. _______________________________________________________________________ Key Takeaways: Chronic Fatigue and Long COVID share common causes. Energy is our birthright. The Toxic 5 contribute to fatigue. Personalized treatment over lab tests. Nervous system retraining is essential.
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How Meditation Transformed a High-Powered Miami Lawyer’s Life
02/04/2025
How Meditation Transformed a High-Powered Miami Lawyer’s Life
In this episode of the Field Notes podcast, Dr. Rob Downey engages in a deep conversation with Bob Martin, a former criminal trial lawyer turned meditation teacher and therapist. They explore Bob’s transformative journey from a high-pressure legal career during Miami’s infamous “Cocaine Cowboys” era to discovering the profound benefits of meditation. Bob shares insights on how meditation helps cultivate compassion and loving-kindness, facilitating personal transformation and emotional healing. They discuss the significance of self-love, the importance of befriending one’s thoughts, and the ability to experience awe as a way to enhance mental well-being. The conversation emphasizes the need for intentional meditation practices to foster balance and personal growth, ultimately leading to a fulfilling life. Timestamps: 00:00:01 Introduction to Bob Martin. 00:01:51 Bob’s background as a lawyer. 00:04:03 Meditation’s role in personal transformation. 00:09:17 The importance of loving-kindness practices. 00:47:35 Bob shares his daily gratitude ritual. _______________________________________________________________________ Key Takeaways: Clarity: Use simple language to ensure ideas are easily understood. Relevance: Tailor content to audience interests for better engagement. Actionability: Provide specific steps for practical application. Prioritization: Highlight critical points first for quick comprehension. Visuals: Use charts and infographics to enhance understanding.
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Q&A Session: Energy, Sleep and Supplementation
01/28/2025
Q&A Session: Energy, Sleep and Supplementation
In this episode of the Field Notes Podcast, Dr. Rob Downey and Joe Rignola dive into a variety of health topics, focusing on supplements, energy, stress management, and sleep. Dr. Rob shares his personal supplement regimen, highlighting key vitamins, minerals, and anti-inflammatories that help him maintain optimal health despite the stresses of his medical career. They discuss the importance of a simplified, effective supplement plan for overall well-being, as well as tips for boosting energy and sleep quality. The episode also explores immune support, gut health, and the role of morning sunlight in setting the body’s circadian rhythm. Timestamps: – Introduction of hosts and Q&A. – Dr. Rob's supplement regimen discussed. – Year-round immune support supplements. – Tips for better sleep hygiene. – Importance of morning sunlight exposure. _______________________________________________________________________ Key Takeaways: Simplify Your Supplement Routine Support Your Immune System Year-Round Prioritize Sleep Hygiene Energy Comes from the Inside Morning Sunlight Sets Your Circadian Rhythm
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Lower Chronic Inflammation For The Whole Family With Madiha Saeed, Md
01/21/2025
Lower Chronic Inflammation For The Whole Family With Madiha Saeed, Md
Dr. Rob Downey speaks the Holistic Mom, MD, Dr. Madiha Saeed, board certified family physician, best-selling author of The Holistic Rx: Your Guide to Healing Chronic Inflammation and Disease and Adam's Healing Adventures. Timestamps: [02:37] The Holistic Kids Show[05:40] About Dr. Madiha Saeed and her parenting “wins” [14:16] Involving family in healthy living [18:37] Quenching inflammation [25:45] How the pandemic is affecting inflammation [32:11] Adam’s Healing Adventures + The Holistic Rx [36:35] Taking holistic medicine internationally
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The Secret to Overcoming Hypothyroidism, Hashimoto’s, and Autoimmunity.
01/14/2025
The Secret to Overcoming Hypothyroidism, Hashimoto’s, and Autoimmunity.
In this episode of the "Podcast Jasmine Parker Gallery," Dr. Rob Downey and functional medicine coach Jasmine Parker discuss the transformative power of functional medicine, particularly for individuals dealing with hypothyroidism and autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto's disease. Jasmine shares insights from her personal health journey, emphasizing the importance of a holistic, whole-body approach to healing. They explore how functional medicine coaching supports long-term health by focusing on behavior change, sustainable habits, and individualized care. They also discuss the value of mindset, realistic goal-setting, and how small changes can lead to significant improvements in health. Timestamps: (00:01) Introduction to functional medicine and coaching. (03:07) Importance of a holistic approach. (06:30) Moving beyond willpower for health. (16:30) Jasmine's personal autoimmune health journey. (25:33) Tips for starting functional medicine care. _______________________________________________________________________ Key Takeaways: Holistic Health: Functional medicine looks at the body as a whole system. Coaching Support: Coaches help with lifestyle changes and accountability. Beyond Willpower: Success requires mindset shifts and realistic goals. Realistic Goals: Tailored goals lead to sustainable health improvements. Foundational Health: Sleep, stress management, and nutrition are key to healing.
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Root-Cause Health: Healing Beyond The Diagnosis with Reed Davis
01/07/2025
Root-Cause Health: Healing Beyond The Diagnosis with Reed Davis
In this episode of "Field Notes," Dr. Rob Downey, a functional medicine practitioner, interviews Reed Davis, founder of Functional Diagnostic Nutrition (FDN). Davis shares his journey from environmental law to pioneering functional health practices, emphasizing the importance of addressing upstream health imbalances rather than relying solely on traditional diagnoses. He discusses his methods for identifying and treating root causes using alternative lab tests, personalized approaches to health, and a system for empowering both practitioners and patients. The conversation also highlights the necessity of individualized care, the role of stress and lifestyle in health, and the transformative potential of integrative wellness practices. Timestamps: (00:38) Reed Davis' multi-certified global health impact. (02:34) Motivation behind founding Functional Diagnostic Nutrition. (05:10) Challenges with traditional diagnostic lab tests. (12:35) Importance of upstream health imbalances. (30:02) Personalized diets and food sensitivity testing. _______________________________________________________________________ Key Takeaways: Functional medicine targets root causes, not just symptoms. Personalized health plans are crucial for long-term vitality. Addressing upstream health imbalances is key to healing. Advanced lab tests provide deeper insights than standard exams. Stress, lifestyle, and mental health are essential factors in holistic healing.
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Regenerative Gardening: Boost Your Health and Save the Planet
12/16/2024
Regenerative Gardening: Boost Your Health and Save the Planet
In this episode, Dr. Rob Downey sits down with Matthieu Mehuys a landscape architect and passionate gardener, shares his journey from growing up on a family farm to becoming a global expert in regenerative gardening. He discusses the power of nature, how gardening can enhance personal health, and the importance of regenerating the planet through soil restoration. Matthieu also explains the benefits of weeds and how to work with nature for more sustainable and rewarding gardening practices. He emphasizes the shift from sustainability to regeneration and provides practical tips and resources for those wanting to start their own regenerative gardens. Timestamps: (00:01) Rob Downey introduces Matthieu Mehuys. (05:30) Matthieu’s early gardening lessons at age 5. (08:27) Leaving the 9-5 job for gardening. (13:58) Transitioning from sustainability to regeneration. (30:15) Matthieu explains weeds’ benefits for soil. _______________________________________________________________________ Key Takeaways: Regenerative gardening benefits both personal health and the planet. Weeds are not the enemy – they restore soil health. Gardening with nature leads to sustainable, flourishing gardens. Embracing regeneration over sustainability offers endless benefits. Practical steps and resources are available to help you start.
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The Hidden Health Markers Your Doctor Is Overlooking—And How They Can Change Everything
12/10/2024
The Hidden Health Markers Your Doctor Is Overlooking—And How They Can Change Everything
In this episode, Dr. Rob Downey and Evan Transue discuss the evolution of functional medicine and its ability to address chronic health issues by using functional lab testing. They explore the strengths of Western medicine in life-threatening conditions and the limitations it faces in dealing with long-term health problems. Evan shares his personal journey with multiple health diagnoses and highlights the importance of understanding hidden stressors like hormonal, immune, and digestive imbalances. The episode also delves into the need for a balanced approach, combining conventional and functional medicine to achieve optimal health. Timestamps [] Introduction to functional medicine’s revolution. [] Strengths and weaknesses of Western medicine. [] Importance of functional lab testing. [] Work-life balance affecting health outcomes. [] Humility and patient-centered care in health. _______________________________________________________________________ On this episode you will: Learn how functional lab testing uncovers hidden stressors like hormonal imbalances and gut issues. Discover the gap between conventional medicine and chronic illness management. Understand the power of a holistic, personalized approach to health. Hear about the importance of integrating functional medicine with traditional treatments for optimal wellness. Explore the role of lifestyle changes and nutrition in overcoming chronic health problems. If you’re ready to take control of your health, this episode is for you!
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