Wise Traditions

For generations, people have turned to natural clay for everything from wounds and burns to digestive troubles and detoxification. But could something as simple as clay also offer relief when shingles strikes? Neal Bosshardt has been using natural bentonite clay for more than 50 years. His connection to it began with his grandfather's Utah farm, which happened to sit alongside a remarkable deposit of mineral-rich clay. Over the decades, Neal and his family began exploring the traditional medicinal uses of clay for a wide variety of ailments. In this episode, Neal shares stories of people who have turned to clay during painful shingles outbreaks, including his own wife. He explains how to prepare and apply a clay poultice, why he recommends keeping the clay in place for hours at a time, and how clay baths may help soothe the intense itching associated with shingles. But the conversation goes well beyond shingles. Neal discusses the many ways his family has used clay over the years, from cuts, burns, and other

What really happened during the 2025 West Texas measles outbreak? Dr. Ben Edwards shares his firsthand experience caring for hundreds of Mennonite families at the center of the highly publicized epidemic. He explains why he turned to cod liver oil, vitamin C, and other supportive therapies, discusses the nutritional and lifestyle factors he believes influenced patient outcomes, and recounts the challenges of navigating intense media scrutiny after his work drew national attention. Dr. Ben also shares why he has great respect for Dr. Tom Cowan's work and discusses the growing importance he places on terrain over germ theory, exploring how nutrition, movement, sunshine, emotional well-being, and other lifestyle factors help determine our resilience to illness. Whether discussing measles, chronic disease, or everyday health, he makes the case that supporting the body's innate healing capacity is the foundation of lasting wellness.  WAPF Ad- Join us October 16th through 18th in Washington, D.C., for the 2026 Wise

For decades, Dr. Steve Hughlett worked as a hospital pharmacist, helping patients manage chronic disease with medications. Then a deep dive into the nutrition research changed the course of his career. What he discovered convinced him that many of the chronic illnesses filling hospitals today have more to do with what people eat than with a lack of prescription drugs. In this episode, Dr. Hughlett explains why he believes insulin—not blood sugar—is one of the most important markers of metabolic health and why understanding its role can change the way we think about type 2 diabetes, obesity, fatty liver disease, and many other chronic conditions. He discusses how modern eating patterns keep insulin chronically elevated, why processed foods are designed to keep us coming back for more, and how real, nutrient-dense foods can help restore metabolic health. The conversation also explores how definitions of chronic disease have changed over time, the difference between treating symptoms and addressing root causes,

What if one of the most important health decisions you make every day has nothing to do with food—and everything to do with what touches your skin?   Michel May, founder of AIZOME Textiles, joins us to explore the hidden world of modern fabrics, synthetic dyes, and the chemicals woven into many of the clothes, bed sheets, towels, carpets, and other textiles that surround us. After witnessing his mother's reaction to conventional textiles during cancer treatment and discovering traditional Japanese dyeing practices, Michel began a journey that led him to question the materials most of us rarely think about.   In this episode, Michel explains why many clothing labels may be far more misleading than informative, how synthetic dyes and fibers became the industry standard, and what researchers are learning about microplastics, the skin microbiome, and the potential health effects of modern textiles. He discusses athletic wear, fast fashion, indoor air quality, environmental pollution, and why textile fibers make u

What if cattle could help restore degraded land, increase biodiversity, improve water cycles, and even produce more nutrient-dense food? This week, regenerative rancher Alejandro Carrillo joins us from the Chihuahuan Desert of northern Mexico to explain how holistic grazing transformed his family's ranch from bare, compacted ground into thriving grasslands teeming with life. Alejandro describes the surprisingly simple management changes that allowed nature to begin healing itself—and why he believes many of the world's degraded landscapes can recover as well. Alejandro explains how healthy soil functions like a sponge, why weeds are often nature's first responders, and how carefully managed herds can improve water infiltration, increase plant diversity, and support wildlife ranging from migratory birds to predators. He also shares fascinating research suggesting that regenerative grazing may produce exceptionally nutrient-dense beef rich in beneficial compounds rarely measured in conventional food analyses. A

What if the foundation of your child's lifelong health begins long before the first bite of solid food? In this episode, Kate Pope, founder of the Mama Baby Biome, explains why preparing for pregnancy, nourishing the maternal microbiome, and protecting a baby's earliest microbial exposures may be some of the most important investments parents can make. Drawing from both her professional training and her own birth experiences—including an unexpected cesarean followed by a successful home birth—Kate shares practical guidance for supporting both mother and baby through pregnancy, birth, postpartum, breastfeeding, and the introduction of first foods.   Kate explains why the microbiome influences everything from digestion and immunity to allergies, eczema, and even picky eating. She discusses the critical role of postpartum healing, why breast milk is far more than nutrition, and why she believes meat stock—not rice cereal or fruit—is the ideal first food for babies. She also offers hope for parents whose children

What if many of the treatments we rely on to relieve symptoms are actually interfering with the body's ability to heal? Ronald Whitmont, MD, has spent decades exploring that question. A board-certified physician, homeopath, and former president of the American Institute of Homeopathy, he joins us to discuss the fundamental differences between conventional medicine and homeopathy—and why he believes modern science is beginning to validate what homeopaths have observed for more than 200 years. Dr. Whitmont explains how homeopathy works, the fascinating story behind its discovery, and why it was once one of the most widely practiced forms of medicine in the United States. He also discusses the Flexner Report, the decline of homeopathy in America, and the growing body of research on the microbiome that is reshaping our understanding of health and disease. Along the way, we explore symptom suppression, chronic illness, the body's innate healing capacity, and even the use of homeopathy in plants, livestock, and inf

What happens when a public health leader refuses to make decisions based on fear? In this episode, Florida Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo joins us to discuss the principles that guided him through one of the most turbulent periods in modern medicine. He reflects on his years at UCLA during the COVID-19 pandemic, why he publicly challenged lockdowns and mandates, and what it was like to work alongside Governor Ron DeSantis to chart a different course in Florida. But this conversation goes far beyond policy. Dr. Ladapo opens up about the childhood trauma that left him living in a near-constant state of fear, the unexpected healing journey that transformed his life just months before the pandemic began, and how that experience changed the way he practices medicine, understands chronic illness, and approaches leadership. We also explore Florida's efforts to investigate contaminants in the food supply, remove fluoride from public water, protect informed consent, and address the environmental factors contributin

Kate Tietje believes plants carry wisdom—and in this episode, she explains why herbal remedies have remained trusted tools for healing across generations. Kate is the founder of Earthley Wellness, a longtime herbalist, homeschool mother of six, and author of the book Natural Remedies for Kids. In this conversation, Kate shares how her journey into herbalism began when conventional medicine failed to help her young daughter's chronic health issues. What started as a personal search for answers eventually grew into one of the most trusted herbal wellness companies in the country.   Kate explains the philosophy behind herbalism, why whole plants work differently than pharmaceutical drugs, and how herbs can support the body rather than simply suppress symptoms. We also discuss medical freedom, concerns about toxic ingredients in modern food and personal care products, and why she believes families should have greater access to natural healing modalities. Throughout the episode, Kate offers practical guidance for

Judith McGeary, founder of the Farm and Ranch Freedom Alliance (FARFA), joins us to explain how one massive piece of legislation quietly shapes nearly every aspect of our food system—from the seeds farmers plant to the food that ends up on our plates. She breaks down the history of the Farm Bill, how it evolved from supporting soil conservation and family farms to favoring consolidation and industrial agriculture, and why consumers should pay attention. Judith also discusses the controversial effort to grant pesticide manufacturers liability protection, the challenges facing regenerative farmers, the loss of seed diversity, and the regulatory barriers that make it difficult for local food producers to thrive. Along the way, she offers practical solutions for rebuilding resilient local food systems and explains why meaningful change often begins with ordinary citizens making a phone call to their elected representatives. Whether you're concerned about food quality, farmer livelihoods, regenerative agriculture,

In this episode, Aaron Siri discusses why he believes vaccines have become more than a medical issue—they've become a kind of modern religion. Drawing from themes in his book, Vaccines, Amen: The Religion of Vaccines, Aaron explores how belief, institutional authority, and pharmaceutical influence have shaped vaccine policy and public perception.   He explains the powerful role a small group of vaccinologists has played in shaping vaccine science, education, and government recommendations, and discusses what he uncovered while reviewing FDA clinical trial documents and deposing some of the most influential figures in vaccinology.   The conversation also examines the lack of placebo-controlled trials for routine childhood vaccines, the liability protections granted to pharmaceutical companies under the 1986 National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act, the challenges surrounding informed consent, and the broader question of medical liberty in modern society.   Along the way, Aaron shares why he believes people should

What if some of the most powerful medicines aren't found in a prescription bottle – but in the microbes living inside traditional fermented foods? Vanessa Hargrove joins the podcast to explain how foods like kefir, kombucha, yogurt, sauerkraut, and sourdough may help restore the microbiome, reduce inflammation, improve digestion, curb sugar cravings, and support overall health. Vanessa shares her own dramatic healing journey – from debilitating joint pain and severe food sensitivities to vibrant health through ancestral nutrition and fermentation. The conversation explores how modern life may be damaging the microbiome through glyphosate, antibiotics, chlorinated water, and antimicrobial household products – and why rebuilding beneficial microbes may be one of the missing keys to better health. Vanessa also discusses the powerful role fermented foods may play in supporting digestion, mood, immunity, hormone balance, and even chronic gastrointestinal conditions.   She explains the science behind targeted micro

What really happened during the COVID era—and why are so many people still afraid to talk about it? Jeffrey Tucker became one of the leading voices questioning lockdowns, censorship, and vaccine mandates during the COVID years. As the founder of the Brownstone Institute and author of Life After Lockdown, he has spent years documenting the far-reaching consequences of pandemic policies and advocating for accountability, free speech, and medical freedom. In this episode, Jeffrey discusses the lasting cultural, political, and personal consequences of the COVID response, including the collapse of public trust in government, media, and public health institutions. He explains why accountability still matters years after the official end of the COVID emergency—and why silence only allows the same systems to remain in place. Jeffrey also discusses the COVID Justice Resolution, recent indictments connected to pandemic-era decision-making, the rise of censorship and digital surveillance, and the growing influence of ph

In Part 2 of this conversation, Dr. Sina McCullough returns to unpack what may be one of the most overlooked—and unsettling—developments in our food system.   She introduces the concept of "pharma crops"—foods like corn, rice, and lettuce that are being genetically engineered to produce pharmaceutical compounds, including vaccines. While this technology has been in development for decades, Sina explains why its potential entry into the food supply raises serious questions about safety, transparency, and control.   We also explore the gaps in regulation—how these crops are tested (or not), what happens when contamination occurs, and why consumers are often left in the dark. Sina walks us through the "GRAS" loophole—"generally recognized as safe"—and how thousands of chemicals have entered our food supply without meaningful oversight.   From there, we take a closer look at what's actually in our food today… why labels like "gluten-free" can be misleading… and how processed foods dominate the modern diet.   Fina

In this powerful first conversation, Dr. Sina McCullough shares how she went from a vibrant, athletic life to being so sick she could no longer stand, eat, or care for herself—and how she found her way back.   Despite her PhD in nutrition, Sina spent years searching for answers within the medical system, only to be told her symptoms were "all in her head." At her lowest point, she chose a different path—one that led her to uncover hidden toxicities, nutrient deficiencies, and overlooked food sensitivities that were keeping her body from healing.   In this episode, she introduces the concept of "The Veil"—the unseen trust we place in our food system—and challenges the idea that chronic illness is something we must simply manage. Instead, she offers a powerful reframe: the body is designed to heal when we remove what harms it and restore what's missing.   We also explore why diets often fail, the difference between remission and true healing, and the critical role of emotional and spiritual stress in long-term

In many traditional cultures, the weeks following birth are understood as a critical window—one that shapes a mother's long-term health, energy, and emotional well-being. But in the modern world, postpartum care is often rushed, minimized, or overlooked entirely.   In this episode, Christina Eck shares an Ayurvedic perspective on postpartum healing—one rooted in rest, nourishment, and intentional support for the mother. Drawing from both traditional wisdom and her clinical experience, she explains why the body is especially vulnerable after birth, what it truly needs to recover, and how simple, time-honored practices can help restore balance.   Christine discusses the role of warmth, digestion, and nervous system regulation in the postpartum period, along with the importance of hands-on bodywork in helping the body realign and heal. She also addresses the long-term consequences of neglecting this phase—and why many chronic issues women experience later in life can be traced back to an unsupported postpartum r

What happens when what we believe—and what we actually do—don't quite line up? This week on the Wise Traditions podcast, pediatrician Dr. Lawrence Palevsky explores the concept of cognitive dissonance—what it is, why it's so common in modern life, and how it quietly shapes decisions around health, parenting, and trust in authority. Dr. Palevsky has spent decades encouraging parents to think critically, ask better questions, and reconnect with their own intuition. In this episode, he explains how cognitive dissonance shows up in everyday choices—from the foods people eat to the medical decisions they make—and why it can be so difficult to reconcile conflicting beliefs, even when the stakes are high. The conversation examines the tension many feel between what they've been told is "safe" or "normal" and what they instinctively sense may not be right. Dr. Palevsky discusses how fear, conditioning, and social pressure can keep individuals stuck—and what it takes to step outside that framework and begin thinking i

What if one of the most powerful foods on earth comes from a place so wild, so untouched, that it still operates exactly as nature intended? In this episode, Steve Kurian of Wild for Salmon shares the story of a life-changing summer spent on the remote shores of Bristol Bay, Alaska—living by the rhythms of the tides, the weather, and one of the largest salmon runs on the planet. The conversation explores what makes wild salmon so unique—from its extraordinary life cycle to its essential role in nourishing entire ecosystems—and why this pristine food source stands in such stark contrast to modern, industrialized alternatives.   Steve also offers a glimpse into the realities of commercial fishing: the long hours, the dangerous conditions, and the deep respect required to harvest food in a truly sustainable way. Along the way, themes of connection, stewardship, and traditional foodways emerge—inviting a deeper look at how we source, prepare, and value what we eat. This episode is a reminder that food is not just

What if the story we've been told about food—about meat, animals, and what it means to truly nourish ourselves and the land—is incomplete? Many people today are searching for a way of eating that feels healthier, more ethical, and more sustainable. Some turn away from animal foods out of compassion. Others are working to reconnect with traditional diets and local farms. But what if the answers aren't as simple as we've been led to believe? Our guest today is Abey Rae Scaglione, author of Radical Farm: Animals, Food, and Our Future. Abey's journey is anything but conventional. She became a vegetarian at just thirteen years old, driven by a deep concern for animals. Years later, she found herself raising livestock as a regenerative farmer—facing the emotional, ethical, and ecological realities of producing food within a living system. In this conversation, Abey shares what it was really like to wrestle with the moral complexity of eating animals—and why she ultimately came to believe that well-raised livestock

What if a single court case could redefine your right to refuse a medical intervention? And what happens when the government is given broad authority over what goes into your body?   Leslie Manookian, President and Founder of the Health Freedom Defense Fund, returns for Part Two to discuss a potentially historic case that may soon be heard by the U.S. Supreme Court—one that challenges long-standing legal precedent and raises fundamental questions about bodily autonomy, informed consent, and the limits of government power.   Drawing on her experience leading successful legal challenges—including the overturning of the federal travel mask mandate and efforts to halt employer vaccine mandates—Leslie explains how this case is unfolding, why it has drawn national attention, and what could be at stake if the Court takes it. At its core, she argues, this case could reshape how medical mandates are interpreted under the Constitution.   She also introduces a new national effort—the COVID Justice Resolution—aimed at br