In this episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, we are joined by Dr. Melanie Stein, a licensed Naturopathic Physician and Lyme specialist from Portland, Oregon. Dr. Stein is the owner of Restorative Health Clinic, where she focuses on treating Lyme disease and its complex co-infections. Her personal battle with Lyme disease transformed her life and career, inspiring her to specialize in the care of patients with tick-borne illnesses.

Early Life and Education

• Upbringing: Born in San Diego, California, Dr. Stein moved to Portland, Oregon, where she enjoyed an active, outdoor-focused childhood.
• Challenges: Struggled with anxiety, ADD, and gastrointestinal issues that were often dismissed as psychological.
• Educational Path: Initially interested in veterinary medicine, she was guided to naturopathic medicine and earned her Doctorate in Natural Medicine and a Master’s in Acupuncture from the National University of Natural Medicine (NUNM).

Lyme Disease Diagnosis and Struggles

• Early Symptoms: Experienced ongoing health challenges, including anxiety and gastrointestinal issues, but they were misdiagnosed.
• Neurological Episode: During her third year of naturopathic school, Dr. Stein faced a sudden, severe neurological crisis, leaving her paralyzed and reliant on a wheelchair.
• Misdiagnosis: Despite her Lyme diagnosis, hospital staff dismissed her condition as "conversion disorder," further complicating her care.
• Correct Diagnosis: With the help of her naturopathic doctor, Dr. Jennifer Means, she received a diagnosis of CDC-positive Lyme, IgM Bartonella, and tularemia.

Treatment and Recovery

• Therapies: Dr. Stein's treatment included:
  • IV antibiotics like Rocephin and Azithromycin.
  • IV phosphatidylcholine for cell membrane stabilization therapy, which played a pivotal role in her recovery.
  • IV ozone therapy and herbal treatments.
  • Ivermectin to calm tremors and regulate immune responses.
• Journey to Remission: After five years of intensive treatment and additional care during a relapse, Dr. Stein recovered her health and has maintained remission.

Professional Transformation

• Becoming a Lyme Specialist: Inspired by her journey, Dr. Stein dedicated her career to treating patients with Lyme disease and advocating for better awareness and care.
• Philosophy: Emphasizes a holistic, multifaceted approach that addresses pathogens, cellular damage, and immune dysfunction.
• Mentorship and Expertise: Trained under Lyme-literate experts, attended ILADS conferences, and specialized in advanced therapies like Perineural Injection Therapy.

Advice and Prevention Tips

• For Patients: Celebrate small victories, persist through setbacks, and advocate for yourself. The healing journey is challenging, but progress is possible.
• For Prevention: Perform regular tick checks, use permethrin-treated clothing, and send ticks for testing. Awareness and preparedness are key to protecting your family.

Closing Thoughts: Dr. Melanie Stein's remarkable journey from patient to practitioner exemplifies resilience and the transformative power of holistic care. Through her expertise, empathy, and dedication, she continues to make a profound impact on the Lyme community.

In this powerful Tick Boot Camp Podcast episode, Lindsey Shaker shares her inspiring journey of overcoming Lyme disease and multiple co-infections. From battling years of misdiagnosis to navigating aggressive treatments, Lindsey’s story highlights resilience, resourcefulness, and the importance of maintaining hope. She also emphasizes the role of movement, such as yoga and hiking, and the necessity of community and self-care in the healing process. Tune in for invaluable insights into managing chronic illness and learning how to advocate for yourself and others in the Lyme community.

1. Introduction to Lindsey Shaker • Background: Director of Marketing for Shaker Auto Group and Lyme disease advocate. • Diagnosed with Lyme disease and multiple co-infections at age 31 after years of misdiagnosis.

2. Lindsey’s Early Life and Onset of Symptoms • Born with Lyme and Bartonella through maternal transmission. • Early symptoms: Full-body paralysis during high school track practices, emotional instability, memory loss, and balance issues in college. • Misdiagnosed with depression, ADHD, and Lyme carditis before her eventual diagnosis.

3. The Turning Point • Mother’s diagnosis prompted Lindsey to seek further testing. • Diagnosed with Lyme disease, Bartonella, Babesiosis, Typhus, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Ehrlichiosis, and Anaplasmosis via blood tests conducted by Dr. Bouboulis.

4. The Treatment Journey • Initial treatments: A combination of antibiotics, anti-parasitic medication (Mepron), and IVIG therapy. • Challenges: Managing severe Herxheimer reactions and navigating insurance for IVIG approval. • Milestones: Significant improvements in mobility and overall health over seven years of treatment.

5. The Role of Mindset and Self-Care • Tools for resilience: Yoga, probiotics, CBD oil, and communication with Lyme-literate professionals. • Addressing environmental factors, such as mold exposure, through diet, sleep, and movement.

6. Movement as Medicine • Physical activities: Hiking and yoga played crucial roles in her recovery journey. • Emotional benefits: Restored confidence and emotional well-being through consistent movement.

7. Life After Lyme • Nearly 99% recovered but emphasizes the importance of continued vigilance. • Reflects on lost time but remains grateful for the progress made and the strength gained.

8. Advice for Listeners • For Lyme patients: “Your outlook is everything. Fight for your recovery and never give up.” • For prevention: “Assign a tick-checking buddy and never skip tick checks after outdoor activities.”

9. Lindsey’s Call-to-Action • Follow Lindsey on Instagram: @LMshaker to learn more about her journey and advocacy work. • Explore Tick Boot Camp resources for tools and strategies to overcome Lyme disease and chronic illnesses.

Conclusion: Lindsey Shaker’s journey reminds us that recovery is possible with persistence, education, and support. Her story is a beacon of hope for others navigating the challenges of chronic Lyme and other tick-borne diseases

Keywords: Lyme disease, Tick Boot Camp, Lindsey Shaker, Resilience, Misdiagnosis, Co-infections, Herxheimer reactions, IVIG, Movement, Mindset, Immune system, Chronic illness, Recovery, Advocacy, Tick-borne illnesses, Treatment journey

In this episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, we sit down with Liz Kinnart, a health professional, Lyme disease survivor, and founder of Bloom Holistic Health and Fitness. Liz shares her remarkable journey from growing up in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula—where tick exposure was a part of life—to her eventual Lyme disease diagnosis and recovery. With over 15 years of experience in exercise physiology and chronic disease management, Liz offers invaluable insights into navigating tick-borne illnesses and maintaining health.

Key Discussion Points:

• Early Exposure to Ticks: Growing up in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Liz was exposed to ticks from a young age but was unaware of the potential health risks. Her love for outdoor activities like hiking and mountain biking in her 20s further increased her tick exposure.
• Health Challenges and Diagnosis: Liz’s health journey began in 2020 with flu-like symptoms and joint pain, initially misdiagnosed as rheumatoid arthritis. After years of unexplained symptoms, she received a Lyme disease and Babesia diagnosis in 2023 through blood testing by a Lyme-literate medical doctor (LLMD).
• The Role of Stress and Immunity: Liz reflects on how past stressors, including a traumatic event in high school and a toxic relationship in college, may have weakened her immune system, making her more vulnerable to tick-borne illnesses.
• Healing Journey: Liz used a holistic approach to heal, including herbal therapies like cryptolepis, banderol, and samento, along with antibiotics, parasite cleansing, and lifestyle changes. She highlights the importance of balance in exercise, incorporating strength training and low-impact activities while listening to her body’s needs.
• Creating Bloom Holistic Health and Fitness: Inspired by her journey, Liz founded Bloom Holistic Health and Fitness to support others with chronic illnesses. Her personalized coaching focuses on improving health through fitness, nutrition, and education.

Advice for Listeners:

• For those battling Lyme disease: Healing is possible with patience, resilience, and a proactive mindset.
• For prevention: Build a strong immune system and be prepared with knowledge and tools to handle potential tick encounters.

Resources and Links:

• Liz’s Website: Bloom Holistic Health and Fitness
• Follow Liz on Social Media:
  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • TikTok

Connect with Us: If you found this episode helpful, please share it with someone who might benefit from Liz’s inspiring journey. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and join us for our next episode!

In this compelling episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, Richard Johannesen and special guest co-host Claudia Arias welcome Audrey Lambidakis. Audrey, based in Santa Cruz, California, shares her journey from a promising career in rescue and safety to overcoming the challenges of a life-altering brain injury and Lyme disease. Claudia, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, joins to provide her insights and amplify the importance of mental health in chronic illness recovery.

Episode Highlights:

Audrey's Early Aspirations and Health Challenges

• Audrey’s background in safety work, including her time as a junior ski patrol member.
• How a knee injury and subsequent brain injury during her freshman year of college shifted her life trajectory.
• A decade-long journey of seeking treatment across the U.S., including participation in government studies and visits to top hospitals like Mayo Clinic and Stanford.

The Turning Point: Lyme Disease Diagnosis

• Misdiagnoses and dismissal by doctors who deemed her symptoms psychosomatic.
• The eventual discovery of Lyme disease as the root cause of her prolonged health struggles.
• Her experiences with Bee Venom Therapy (BVT) and the importance of Lyme-literate doctors.

Healing and Advocacy: Faith, Hope, and Action

• Audrey shares the emotional toll of navigating her health journey and the pivots that kept her moving forward.
• How faith and belief in the possibility of healing played a vital role in her recovery.
• The creation of the Healing Brain Waves Foundation to educate and raise awareness about brain injuries and their connection to Lyme disease.

Holistic Healing and Future Plans

• Audrey’s exploration of a holistic approach to recovery, incorporating mindfulness, therapy, and innovative treatments like psychedelics.
• Plans to become a nurse practitioner to bridge the gap between brain injuries and Lyme disease.
• Her advocacy work within the Mavericks surfing community to secure a hyperbaric chamber for big wave surfers.

The Broader Impact

• A discussion on the systemic lack of Lyme disease education among medical professionals.
• The critical role of patient self-advocacy in navigating complex health systems.
• Claudia and Richard emphasize the transformative power of proper diagnosis and the ripple effect of getting one person the right care.

Key Takeaways:

• Hope is essential: Even in the darkest moments, small positive changes can guide the way forward.
• Faith in healing—whether rooted in spirituality, science, or self-belief—can accelerate recovery.
• Lyme disease is often an unseen factor in brain injuries, underscoring the need for awareness and education.

Closing Thoughts: Richard Johannesen and Claudia Arias commend Audrey’s resilience and vulnerability, celebrating her progress and unwavering dedication to helping others. This episode is a testament to the power of community, advocacy, and belief in healing.

Subscribe & Share: If Audrey’s story inspired you, subscribe to the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode to spread awareness about Lyme disease and brain injuries.

Note to Listeners: Audrey’s story is a powerful reminder that healing is possible, no matter how daunting the journey may seem. Stay hopeful, stay informed, and join the movement to liberate others from the suffering caused by Lyme disease.

Special Guest Co-Host: Heather Glovack joins Rich from Tick Boot Camp to delve into Lyme disease treatment and the power of holistic healing with Dr. Alice Honican, the lead practitioner at Longevity Health Center in Roswell, GA.

Episode Summary: In this episode, Dr. Alice Honican shares her insights into treating chronic Lyme disease using bioenergetic medicine, a holistic approach to diagnosis and healing. She discusses her family’s pioneering contributions to natural medicine, her unique testing protocols, and the importance of mindset and emotional well-being in the healing process. Together with Heather Glovack, co-hosting alongside Rich, they explore actionable advice for listeners navigating Lyme recovery.

Key Topics Covered:

• Meet Dr. Alice Honican
  • Overview of Longevity Health Center and its foundation in macrobiotic medicine.
  • Dr. Honican’s background, influenced by her father, a Lyme-literate practitioner.
• What is Bioenergetic Medicine?
  • How electronic devices identify energetic imbalances for diagnosis and treatment.
  • The role of detoxification and support in Lyme recovery.
• Navigating Challenges in Natural Medicine
  • Addressing Lyme disease and holistic care in Georgia.
  • Balancing patient advocacy with evolving medical landscapes.
• Holistic Treatment Approach
  • Incorporating oral health, thermography, and layered testing protocols.
  • Therapies like acupuncture, neurofeedback, and tools for at-home maintenance.
• The Power of Mindset and Emotional Health
  • Addressing emotional/nervous system factors to complement physical healing.
  • Encouraging patience, belief in the body’s healing, and setting achievable goals.

Key Takeaways for Listeners:

• Bioenergetic Medicine: A cutting-edge approach using frequency measurements to address health imbalances.
• Holistic Health Focus: Detoxification, oral health, and comprehensive testing create a foundation for recovery.
• Mind-Body Connection: Positive mindset and emotional support are crucial for overcoming chronic conditions.
• Practical Advice: Start small, stay consistent, and trust your body's ability to heal over time.

Actionable Tips for Lyme Warriors:

• Begin with manageable lifestyle changes to build momentum.
• Incorporate therapies like acupuncture or neurofeedback for sustained wellness.
• Use at-home tools recommended by your practitioner for maintenance.

About Us:

Rich Johannesen: Co-host of Tick Boot Camp, bringing years of experience advocating for Lyme disease awareness and patient empowerment. Learn More About Rich

Heather Glovack: Lyme survivor and passionate advocate, co-hosting to share her perspective and inspire hope. Learn More About Heather

Dr. Alice Honican: Lyme-literate practitioner and owner of Longevity Health Center in Roswell, GA, with over 20 years of experience in natural medicine. She specializes in bioenergetic medicine, detoxification, and a holistic approach to chronic illness treatment.

Subscribe to Tick Boot Camp: Don’t miss an episode! Follow us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform.

In this episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, hosts Matt Sabatello and special guest co-host Michelle McKeon sit down with Dr. Napatia T. Gettings, a Double Board Certified Psychiatrist and Lyme Literate specialist, to explore the intersections of brain health, Lyme disease, and cutting-edge diagnostic tools like SPECT imaging.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

Dr. Gettings’ Journey to Lyme Literacy

• Discover how Dr. Gettings transitioned from medical school to private practice and became a partner at Amen Clinics.
• Learn about her expertise in treating child, adolescent, and young adult brain health and the integration of multiple medical specialties in her practice.

Unveiling the Power of SPECT Imaging

• Understand what SPECT (Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography) imaging is and how it differs from traditional CT scans.
• Learn why SPECT imaging is vital for identifying brain activity abnormalities, including inflammation, and its challenges in obtaining insurance coverage.

Brain Inflammation and Tick-Borne Diseases

• Explore how SPECT scans can detect brain inflammation caused by toxins, pathogens, and autoimmune conditions.
• Dive into case studies, including patients misdiagnosed with psychiatric conditions later found to have infections like Babesia.

Treatment Approaches for Lyme and Inflammation

• Discover the role of multi-disciplinary care in addressing tick-borne diseases and brain health.
• Learn about treatment modalities such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and nutraceuticals.

The Role of Cannabis in Brain Health

• Get insights into the benefits and risks of CBD and THC in managing inflammation and mental health.
• Understand the importance of education and individualized treatment plans when considering cannabis use.

Navigating Mental Health and Trust

• Hear Michelle McKeon’s personal story about overcoming mental health challenges and finding a supportive psychiatrist.
• Explore the critical role of trust in the doctor-patient relationship when treating complex conditions.

Misdiagnosis and the Need for Better Diagnostics

• Learn why inadequate medical workups often lead to psychiatric misdiagnoses.
• Understand the importance of accessible, accurate diagnostics in mental health care.

Key Takeaways and Resources

• Discover the Amen Clinics’ resources, including examples of SPECT scans showing differences between healthy brains and those affected by Lyme disease.
• Hear Dr. Gettings’ call to normalize brain scans as essential diagnostic tools for neuropsychiatric symptoms.
• Find actionable advice on improving health literacy and accessing comprehensive care.

This episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone navigating Lyme disease, mental health challenges, or looking to optimize brain health. Tune in to uncover the science behind SPECT imaging and its life-changing applications in psychiatric care.

Introduction: In this powerful episode, Tick Boot Camp Podcast Rich Johannesen and special guest co-host Dan Wagner welcome Lyme disease survivor and advocate Sophia Denison. Dan shares insights on his new Global Lyme Alliance-sponsored podcast, Lyme Plus, which he co-hosts with Kenzie Vath, where they spotlight essential information from doctors and researchers in the Lyme disease field. Rich then introduces Sophia, an inspiring young leader in the Lyme disease community, whose journey of resilience has fueled her advocacy efforts.

Sophia’s Advocacy and Community Engagement: Sophia Denison recounts her transformative journey from Lyme disease patient to a leading activist. Now fully recovered, she dedicates herself to raising awareness and empowering others. As an ambassador for the Global Lyme Alliance, she has organized community events, including a screening of The Quiet Epidemic documentary on her college campus. She discusses how storytelling opens up powerful dialogues and fosters empathy, helping others understand the struggles of Lyme disease sufferers.

Sophia’s Early Life and Initial Symptoms: Growing up in Barrington, Illinois, Sophia was an active child who participated in sports and triathlons. However, at age seven, she began experiencing unexplainable symptoms, including intense stomach pain, weight loss, and severe anxiety. Her symptoms were initially misdiagnosed as gastrointestinal issues and anxiety, which delayed her Lyme diagnosis for over a decade.

The Challenges of College and Escalating Symptoms: Upon starting college, Sophia's symptoms intensified. She faced body pain, fatigue, and unusual neurological episodes like uncontrollable laughing and crying. Balancing academic demands while sharing facilities with other students added to her stress and exacerbated her symptoms. Despite seeking help from specialists, her symptoms were often dismissed as stress-related.

Sophia’s Search for a Diagnosis and the Role of IGeneX Testing: Sophia recalls the emotional toll of visiting multiple specialists, only to be told her symptoms were "all in her head." Desperate for answers, she decided to undergo a Lyme test with IGeneX. With encouragement from her best friend and neighbor, Lulu, who shared her own Lyme story, Sophia pursued testing that finally confirmed her suspicions.

Discovering a Treatment Path in Germany: Sophia sought treatment at Klinik St. Georg in Bad Aibling, Germany. There, she underwent treatments including whole-body hyperthermia, blood ozone therapy, and detoxification therapies. The intensive treatment program helped Sophia begin her journey toward health, though it was a difficult path both emotionally and physically.

Building a Personalized Toolbox for Recovery: Recovery for Sophia meant building a personalized "toolbox" of health strategies. Today, she maintains her health through supplements, a balanced diet, regular movement, and stress management. She emphasizes listening to her body, and understanding its needs has allowed her to reconnect with herself and rebuild her life.

Lessons Learned and Empowering Advice for the Lyme Community: Sophia’s key advice to others is to trust that their symptoms are real. By tuning into her body's signals and understanding its resilience, she was able to shift her perspective on Lyme disease. Sophia encourages patients to see their bodies as allies and lean into their strength through the journey. Her recovery serves as a beacon of hope for Lyme patients, demonstrating that healing is possible.

Action Items and Future Goals: Sophia is committed to her work with the Global Lyme Alliance and other organizations to connect Lyme patients with Lyme-literate healthcare providers. By sharing her experiences, she hopes to continue empowering others and raising awareness of Lyme disease.

Conclusion: This episode offers a hopeful message for Lyme sufferers worldwide. Sophia Denison’s journey from illness to advocacy serves as a reminder that recovery is achievable, and her story encourages listeners to trust their instincts, seek proper care, and find a supportive community.

Episode Summary: In this powerful episode, the Tick Boot Camp hosts speak with Kim Strother—celebrity fitness trainer, holistic health coach, yoga instructor, and model for brands like Ford, Nike, Reebok, Adidas, Columbia Sportswear, Footlocker, and more. As one of LA’s top trainers, Kim shares her transformative journey from undiagnosed Lyme disease to becoming an advocate for holistic health and chronic illness recovery. Her battle with Lyme began with mysterious symptoms from a young age, leading to a 22-year struggle before finally receiving her Lyme diagnosis. Today, she uses her expertise to inspire others with a multi-modal, bio-individual approach to wellness.

Key Takeaways:

1. Growing Up in Tick-Endemic New Jersey and Early Symptoms

• Kim’s childhood on a family Christmas tree farm in tick-endemic New Jersey involved frequent tick exposure but little awareness of tick-borne illness risks. She began experiencing fatigue, migraines, GI problems, and chronic infections as a child, but these symptoms were dismissed or misdiagnosed for over two decades, setting the stage for a lengthy, difficult journey before her eventual Lyme diagnosis.

2. Late Diagnosis and Complex Co-Infections

• By age 28, Kim’s health had deteriorated significantly, with debilitating, multi-system symptoms. After years of seeking answers, she was finally diagnosed with Lyme disease along with several co-infections and chronic conditions: Babesia, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Bartonella, Candida overgrowth, mold and heavy metal toxicity, parasites, and SIBO.

3. Holistic Healing Journey

• Kim’s recovery involved a multi-pronged approach that combined traditional and alternative treatments:
  • Natural Supplements: Homeopathic herbs and Monolaurin (a natural antifungal) helped combat infections.
  • Diet and Detox Therapies: A Paleo diet centered on greens and protein reduced inflammation, and therapies like glutathione IVs, infrared saunas, colonics, and ozone steam treatments supported detoxification.
  • Innovative Devices: Kim used the FreMedica Wave frequency device, which provided symptom relief through frequency-based therapy.
  • Electromagnetic Acupuncture Testing: This testing helped Kim track her health status and adjust her healing protocol.

4. Patience, Body Awareness, and Resilience

• Kim emphasizes the importance of tuning into your body, maintaining patience, and finding hope even during setbacks. She underscores that healing from chronic Lyme disease requires resilience and support from knowledgeable communities.

5. Professional Impact and Holistic Coaching

• Her journey through chronic illness has deeply influenced her approach as a trainer and coach. Kim now focuses on bio-individual health strategies, mindfulness, and sustainable practices, helping clients achieve wellness with a balanced and holistic perspective.

Additional Highlights:

• High-Profile Career: Kim’s career has included being a featured trainer on the Melissa Wood Health App and earning recognition as one of the most in-demand fitness models by racked.

Advice from Kim Strother:

• On Lyme Healing: Stay hopeful, be patient, and celebrate small wins. Healing is a long journey, but each step forward is valuable.

Connect with Kim Strother: To learn more about Kim’s fitness programs and holistic health approach, visit her website and follow her on Instagram.

In this transformative episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, host Matt Sabatello is joined by Janna Johnson—#1 best-selling author, keynote speaker, Functional Medicine Nutritional Therapist, and Lyme disease survivor. Janna’s powerful story of recovery from Lyme disease, breast implant illness (BII), and chronic illness showcases her commitment to functional health and the role of mindset, self-care, and lifestyle adjustments in healing. This episode offers listeners invaluable insights and actionable strategies for overcoming chronic illness with a holistic approach.

Guest Background: From Texas to Functional Medicine

Raised in Texas, Janna grew up with a sugar-heavy diet that led to chronic inflammation, gut health issues, and mental health struggles, including anxiety and depression, by her twenties. Her journey to healing began when she made dietary changes, emphasized gut health, and embraced the connection between chronic inflammation and neurological symptoms.

Healing Chronic Lyme Disease: Essential Oils, Diet, and Detox Protocols

Janna’s recovery from Lyme disease was rooted in holistic protocols, including essential oils and dietary changes. After years of misdiagnoses, she was finally diagnosed with Lyme disease by Dr. Aviva Romm. Her treatment strategies include:

• Keto Diet: Janna adopted a strict ketogenic diet, focusing on healthy fats, minerals, and low-sugar foods to reduce inflammation and restore gut health.
• Essential Oil Protocol: She used a blend of essential oils such as cinnamon bark, thyme, oregano, and tea tree oil to target Lyme bacteria and biofilms. Janna mixed the oils with a carrier oil (organic extra virgin olive oil) and took them in veggie capsules, adjusting dosages based on muscle testing and practitioner guidance.
• Lymphatic Detox Support: To assist her body’s detoxification, Janna incorporated infrared saunas, dry brushing, and regular exercise to support lymphatic drainage and symptom management.
• Mindset and Die-Off Preparation: She emphasizes the importance of mental resilience through die-off reactions—normal but challenging responses to microbial “kill” phases—reinforcing her belief in the body's capacity to heal.

The Tick Boot Camp PARM Model: Prehab, Assist, Rehab, and Maintenance

Janna resonated with Tick Boot Camp’s PARM model, a framework developed to guide chronic illness recovery:

• Prehab: Prioritizing detox and lymph support, as well as sleep, to prepare the body for treatment.
• Assist: Helping the body through the microbial “kill” phase by supporting immune function and enhancing the body’s ability to clear out pathogens like Lyme bacteria.
• Rehab: Focusing on healing the body from Lyme-related damage by incorporating nutrients, rest, and supportive practices that address neurological and physiological impacts.
• Maintenance: Creating sustainable wellness habits, like a nutrient-dense diet, stress reduction, and routine exercise, to support long-term health and prevent relapse.

Breast Implant Illness (BII) Journey and Explant Surgery

After successfully managing Lyme disease, Janna encountered Breast Implant Illness (BII), experiencing symptoms like brain fog, anxiety, and chest discomfort. Muscle testing confirmed that her implants were contributing to these issues. Janna chose to undergo explant surgery, a process requiring meticulous removal of both the implants and surrounding capsules. During her six-month recovery, she revisited protocols such as keto dieting and lymphatic detox to support her healing.

Mindset and Resilience in Healing

At the core of Jonna’s journey is her commitment to cultivating a strong, positive mindset—a cornerstone of her approach to overcoming both Lyme disease and BII. She emphasizes that "our actions follow our thoughts," underscoring the power of belief in recovery. Jonna’s experiences reinforced that mental resilience, paired with self-compassion, is essential when facing the daily challenges of chronic illness. This belief in the mind-body connection enabled her to persevere through difficult treatments and stay committed to her wellness goals, demonstrating the profound impact of mindset on long-term healing.

Books by Janna Johnson

Janna is the author of _Unf*ck Your Mind, which explores overcoming life’s challenges through mental resilience and self-compassion. Her upcoming book details her Lyme disease journey and provides readers with more information on her personalized healing protocols.

Key Takeaways for Those on a Chronic Illness Journey

• Dietary Changes are Foundational: Reducing sugars and carbohydrates can significantly impact inflammation and gut health, especially for those battling chronic illness.
• The Power of Essential Oils: When used properly, essential oils like cinnamon bark, thyme, oregano, and tea tree oil can support the body’s defense against microbes and biofilms.
• Detox Support is Vital: Methods like dry brushing, infrared saunas, and regular exercise help the body eliminate toxins and reduce Lyme symptoms.
• Mindset and Perseverance: Janna emphasizes that mental resilience is just as essential as any physical treatment in the healing process.

Join Janna Johnson in this episode as she shares her inspiring journey, from Texas to full health, while discussing the strategies and mindset that helped her overcome Lyme disease, breast implant illness, and chronic health issues. Her message is one of hope, resilience, and the belief that recovery is possible with a dedicated, holistic approach.

Listen Now to Discover:

• Janna’s essential oil protocol for Lyme disease
• Her thoughts on the Tick Boot Camp PARM model for chronic illness recovery
• Insights into breast implant illness and the explant recovery process
• Tips on treatment, diet, mindset, and self-care for chronic illness

Introduction: In this episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, co-host Richard Johannesen is joined by guest co-host Cassidy Colbert to interview Dr. Torrie Thompson, the founder of Meraki Wellness Center. Dr. Thompson calls in from Austin, Texas, to discuss her personal and professional journey with Lyme disease and address the misconception that Lyme disease doesn’t exist in Texas. Richard also mentions the upcoming ILADS conference in Texas and its role in raising awareness about Lyme disease in the state.

Dr. Torrie Thompson’s Background: Dr. Torrie Thompson reflects on her active childhood in California, where she was passionate about playing junior tennis and equestrian activities. Initially aspiring to become a professional tennis player or veterinarian, her path shifted after a series of undiagnosed health issues, which were later revealed to be caused by Lyme disease.

Her early health challenges included severe symptoms like difficulty lifting her arms, headaches, and unexplained weight gain. These symptoms, combined with visits to multiple specialists who couldn’t provide clear diagnoses, led to significant emotional distress. One doctor even suggested exploratory brain surgery. Through her perseverance and the support of her mother, who was her strongest advocate, Dr. Thompson eventually discovered through her own research that Lyme disease could be the underlying cause of her mysterious symptoms.

The Lyme Disease Diagnosis Journey: After encountering medical professionals who dismissed her symptoms, Dr. Thompson took matters into her own hands and began exploring possibilities, guided by “Dr. Google.” Eventually, a Lyme specialist confirmed her diagnosis through testing, despite resistance from other doctors. While receiving the diagnosis brought her some relief, it also posed new challenges. The physical and emotional toll of Lyme disease deeply impacted her, but it also ignited her desire to understand and treat the illness in a holistic manner.

Treatment Journey and Shift to a Holistic Approach: Dr. Thompson recounts her diverse treatment experiences, ranging from natural and holistic methods, like herbs and dietary changes, to a unique treatment involving magnets with a Lyme specialist in Idaho that significantly improved her health. A pivotal moment came during her travels in Thailand, where a conversation with a neurosurgeon broadened her perspective on healing, convincing her to take a more holistic approach. She explains that this shift away from traditional medicine led her to embrace a comprehensive view of healing—one that considers the whole person, including mental and emotional health. This new direction became central to her treatment philosophy.

Establishing Meraki Wellness Center: Dr. Thompson eventually founded Meraki Wellness Center, named after the Greek word "meraki," which means to put your soul, love, and creativity into your work. At Meraki, Dr. Thompson adopts a multifaceted approach to treating Lyme disease and other chronic health conditions, focusing on detoxification, gut health, and addressing root causes of illness. Her approach emphasizes the importance of diet, lifestyle modifications, and mental health in the healing process.

At the core of her practice is the belief that Lyme disease patients need to adopt a high-maintenance, proactive approach to their health. Dr. Thompson helps her patients create personalized rehabilitation and maintenance plans to ensure long-term well-being, even after the initial treatment phase.

Challenges in Treating Lyme Disease: Dr. Thompson acknowledges the financial burden of Lyme disease testing and treatment. She emphasizes the importance of making testing accessible, especially since many patients have experienced medical fatigue and misdiagnosis. She also shares her approach to patient care, which involves disarming patients by being transparent about her own journey and experiences. This builds trust and helps patients feel understood.

Dr. Thompson highlights the significance of addressing the mental and emotional aspects of Lyme disease, working with therapists and mental health professionals to support her patients. She believes in treating the whole person, not just the physical symptoms, to achieve lasting recovery.

Personalized Treatment and Gut Microbiome: Addressing the complexity of Lyme disease, Dr. Thompson talks about the role of genetic diversity and the importance of tailoring treatment to each individual’s unique biology. While genetics can influence how someone responds to Lyme, Dr. Thompson emphasizes that the diversity of the gut microbiome and the combination of co-infections a person has are even more critical factors.

She shares a personal anecdote involving her and her sister, who both went through the same treatment protocol but had very different outcomes. This illustrates the importance of bioindividuality and the need for a personalized approach to treatment.

Transformation and Finding Purpose: Dr. Thompson’s own experience with Lyme disease led her to discover her true purpose: helping others regain their health. She expresses deep gratitude for her journey, as it has enabled her to make a meaningful impact in the lives of her patients. The connections she has made within the Lyme disease community have been a source of inspiration and fulfillment.

Practical Advice for Patients: Dr. Thompson offers several pieces of practical advice for Lyme disease patients. She emphasizes the importance of a clean, nutrient-dense diet, avoiding processed foods, and focusing on reducing inflammation. Sleep is another critical factor in the healing process. Additionally, she cautions patients against getting bogged down by negativity in online Lyme communities, encouraging them to maintain a positive mindset as they navigate their recovery journey.

Closing Remarks: Richard Johannesen wraps up the episode by thanking Dr. Thompson for sharing her personal story and expertise. He also extends his gratitude to Cassidy Colbert for co-hosting. Dr. Thompson’s journey serves as a beacon of hope for those suffering from Lyme disease, demonstrating that healing is possible through perseverance, holistic care, and bioindividual approaches.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation that sheds light on the complexities of Lyme disease and the integrative healing approach Dr. Thompson champions at Meraki Wellness Center.