Tick Boot Camp

Episode 397: Healthfully U - an interview with Dr. Brad Montagne

Welcome to episode 397 of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast. Today, we're thrilled to share our interview with Dr. Brad Montagne, a highly experienced functional medicine doctor with a unique perspective on Lyme disease. Dr. Brad Montagne, is a seasoned functional medicine doctor from Asheville, North Carolina.

Key Topics Discussed:

  • Dr. Montagne's Early Life and Challenges:
    • Childhood struggles with chronic illness.
    • The journey towards functional medicine driven by a quest for deeper health understanding.
  • Exposure to Lyme Disease:
    • Personal and professional encounters with tick-borne illnesses.
    • Insights into the complexity of Lyme disease and the limitations of current diagnostic methods.
  • Understanding Lyme Disease: Threat x Vulnerability:
    • Dr. Montagne's agreement with the formulaic approach to assessing Lyme disease risk.
    • The importance of evaluating both external threats and individual vulnerabilities.
  • Educational Journey and Medical Practice:
    • Dr. Montagne’s rapid educational progression and experiences in California.
    • Establishing a medical practice and encountering Lyme disease cases.
  • Stress and Its Impact on Health:
    • Discussion on how stress leads to immune suppression and increases vulnerability to infections like Lyme disease.
  • Dr. Montagne's Personal Health Battles:
    • Dealing with immunosuppression.
    • Lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and the use of specific supplements for recovery.
  • Functional Medicine Approach to Treatment:
    • Emphasis on foundational nutritional needs.
    • The role of detoxification and natural remedies in treating Lyme disease and other conditions.
  • Lifestyle Changes for Healing:
    • The importance of hydration, proper diet, and the elimination of toxic relationships for health and recovery.

Conclusion:

  • A heartfelt thank you to Dr. Montagne for his invaluable insights and contributions to understanding Lyme disease and functional medicine.

Thank you for tuning into this episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast. We hope Dr. Brad Montagne's story and insights have been both informative and inspiring. For more episodes and Lyme disease resources, visit our website or follow us on our social media channels.

Episode 396: Lyme Unmasked - an interview with Heidi Hayes

Introduction

  • Rich Johannsen, co-host, welcomes the audience to the Tick Boot Camp Podcast.
  • Rich introduces guest co-host Maria Mooney, who is filling in for Matt Sabatello.
  • Maria and Rich express their excitement about having Heidi Hayes as a guest on the show.

Getting to Know Heidi Hayes

  • Heidi shares her background, growing up in Southern Ontario near Toronto and Buffalo.
  • The conversation touches on Heidi's early life, being a good student, and her vision of becoming an entrepreneur to make a positive impact on the world.

Heidi's Health Journey

  • Heidi discusses her health journey, initially experiencing immune dysfunction and a lack of energy.
  • The discussion includes Heidi's diagnosis of Lyme disease, her initial relief at finding an explanation for her health issues, and her trust in the medical system.
  • Heidi highlights the challenges faced by individuals with chronic illnesses within the healthcare system.

Lyme Disease Complexity

  • The conversation delves into the complexity of Lyme disease, considering the diverse nature of tick bites and the range of symptoms.
  • Heidi emphasizes the importance of understanding the various elements that contribute to Lyme disease's complexity.

The Search for Effective Treatment

  • Heidi shares her journey to find effective treatment for Lyme disease and related issues.
  • She discusses her experience with mold toxins, her visit to the Venn Med Clinic in Toronto, and the challenges she faced in finding the right treatment plan.
  • Heidi highlights the role of Dr. Donald Dennis in her journey and the positive impact of her treatment.

Life After Treatment

  • The discussion explores Heidi's life after successful treatment, including her gradual recovery and newfound abilities.
  • Heidi talks about her ability to exercise and the importance of celebrating small victories during the healing process.

Lyme Disease Awareness and Advocacy

  • The conversation shifts to Lyme disease awareness and advocacy efforts.
  • Heidi encourages individuals to advocate for themselves and seek proper testing and treatment.
  • The importance of raising awareness within the community is discussed, as well as the value of sharing personal stories to support others.

Closing Remarks

  • Rich, Maria, and Heidi express their gratitude for the opportunity to discuss Lyme disease awareness and advocacy.
  • They encourage listeners to get tested and advocate for their health, emphasizing the importance of early detection and treatment.

Outro

  • Rich thanks the audience for tuning in to the Tick Boot Camp Podcast.
  • He invites listeners to explore more episodes and resources on Lyme disease awareness and advocacy.

Episode 395: Treasure Valley - an interview with Jacob Rosenbaum

Introduction: Welcome to another episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast! We're thrilled to have Jacob Rosenbaum with us today, sharing his remarkable journey through Lyme disease and the integrative approach that helped him reclaim his health. Joining us as a special guest co-host is Ryan Courneya, whose insights as a previous guest and Lyme disease survivor add a unique depth to our conversation.

Jacob's Story: Jacob dives into his childhood, detailing his early years in a picturesque community and his deep bond with his sister. He reflects on the challenges of growing up sensitive and the shock of his Lyme diagnosis, highlighting his journey from initial symptoms to a comprehensive treatment plan.

Medical Journey and Diagnosis: Jacob recounts the familiar story of navigating the medical system, consulting various specialists, and eventually being diagnosed with Lyme disease. His initial relief at having a diagnosis quickly turns to fear as he delves into research about his condition.

Approach to Healing: Jacob's healing journey is multifaceted, incorporating both traditional and alternative therapies. He discusses how he initially pursued conventional treatments, including long-term antibiotics, before exploring other healing modalities.

Integrative Modalities and Lifestyle Changes:

  1. Lasers: LPS Therapy
  2. Acupuncture: Regular sessions (1-2 times a week)
  3. Antibiotics: Doxycycline (Note: Requires medical supervision)
  4. Herbs: Core Protocol, Teasel Root Tincture, Wind Tea (Green Dragon Botanicals)
  5. Rife Machine: Resonant Light
  6. Intuitive/Shamanic Healing: (Contact Jacob for references in Northern Virginia)
  7. Whole Foods Diet: Focusing on unprocessed food, clean carbs, and quality fats
  8. Exercise: Gradual progression in weightlifting and resistance training
  9. Temperature Stress Training: Implemented alongside weight training
  10. Helping Others: Engagement in community service and support groups

Jacob's Complete Approach:

Section 1: The Foundation

  • Diet and lifestyle changes
  • Emphasis on quality sleep and hydration
  • Gentle introduction to exercise and movement

Section 2: Pathogen Removal

  • Utilization of lasers, Rife machine, and both Western and Chinese herbal remedies

Section 3: Detoxification

  • Techniques like dry sauna, exercise-induced sweating, and breathing exercises
  • Incorporation of fasting and detox supplements

Section 4: Emotional & Spiritual Healing

  • Personal growth through modalities like acupuncture, shamanic sessions, and traditional therapy

Conclusion: Jacob's story is a testament to the power of an integrative approach in tackling Lyme disease. His journey, marked by resilience and openness to various healing modalities, offers hope and guidance to others navigating similar paths.

Thank you, Jacob, for sharing your inspiring journey with us, and to Ryan for enriching this episode with your perspective and experience. To our listeners, we hope this episode provides valuable insights and encouragement in your own journeys.

Episode 394: Lyme in Tijuana - an interview with Luis Antonio Martinez

In this powerful episode of our Tick Boot Camp Podcast, we delve into the inspiring story of Luis Antonio Martinez, known to friends and colleagues as Antonio, from Tijuana, Mexico. His journey is not just a tale of personal struggle and resilience, but also a beacon of hope for many facing similar health challenges. Join us with special guest co-host Tiffany Perez and Tick Boot Camp host Matt Sabatello as we explore Antonio's path to wellness, offering hope and guidance to others facing similar health battles.

  • Guest Introduction: We're joined by Luis Antonio Martinez ("Antonio"), hailing from Tijuana, Mexico. His experience with misdiagnosis and eventual triumph over a severe health condition offers invaluable insights.
  • Symptom Onset and Struggle: Antonio's health issues began with troubling symptoms, including headaches, Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), dizziness, dysautonomia, tingling, muscle twitches, and facial paralysis (Bell's Palsy).
  • Journey Through Misdiagnosis: For years, Antonio's symptoms were attributed to stress and anxiety, leading to significant frustration and psychological strain. His persistence in seeking answers is a central theme of his story.
  • Breakthrough Diagnosis: The turning point came with a visit to the renowned Dr. Jose Antonio Calzada, who employed dark field microscopy to diagnose Antonio with Lyme disease, a turning point in his journey to recovery.
  • Comprehensive Treatment Approach: Antonio's treatment plan was multifaceted, including a three-month course of Cefixime (Suprax) antibiotics, Fluconazole for candida, Biocidin LSF, activated charcoal as a binder, IV glutathione, probiotics, prebiotics, and an array of vitamins (B, D, C), among others.
  • Conclusion: Antonio's story is one of determination, resilience, and hope. His experiences highlight the importance of persistence in seeking accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. His recovery journey sheds light on the complexities of Lyme disease and the need for comprehensive treatment approaches.

Episode 393: Lyme, Ticks, and You - an Interview with Shelley Ball

Introduction: Welcome to Tick Boot Camp, the go-to podcast for Lyme disease advocacy and awareness. In today's episode, we're honored to host Dr. Shelley Ball, a distinguished researcher and Lyme disease warrior. Join us as we delve into her personal battles with Lyme, her professional insights, and her mission to educate and empower others with special guest co-host Aimee Packer.

Guest Bio: Dr. Shelley Ball, PhD, is a scientist and Lyme disease advocate with firsthand experience battling this tick-borne illness. After encountering the debilitating effects of Lyme, she has become a vocal proponent for change in public health policies and patient care.

Key Topics Discussed:

  • Lyme Disease in Tropical Climates: Dr. Ball discusses her alarming experience with seed tick balls and the ease of contracting Lyme disease in such environments.
  • Healthcare System Flaws: Our guest reflects on the misinformation surrounding Lyme disease prevention and treatment in public health systems.
  • Balancing Outdoor Activity with Disease Prevention: The therapeutic role of nature is weighed against the need for vigilance against ticks.
  • Navigating the Medical Landscape: Dr. Ball shares her story of misdiagnosis and the struggle to find effective treatment within a rigid healthcare framework.
  • Functional Medicine as a Beacon of Hope: Learn about Dr. Ball's turn towards functional medicine, focusing on holistic healing strategies.
  • Lyme Disease and Mental Health: The discussion addresses the psychological struggles that accompany Lyme, highlighting potential benefits of neural training and psilocybin.
  • Empowering Through Education: Dr. Ball talks about her book and how it serves as an educational tool for those impacted by Lyme disease.
  • The Fight for Adequate Treatment: This segment explores the controversial limitations on Lyme disease treatments compared to other conditions.
  • Reflections on Living with Lyme: Dr. Ball offers insights into the complexities of managing Lyme disease amidst the demands of adulthood.

Resources Mentioned:

Call to Action: If you've been touched by Lyme disease or want to support our cause, please subscribe, share this episode, and join our community. Your support helps us spread awareness and advocate for better Lyme disease care.

Closing Remarks: Thank you for tuning in to Tick Boot Camp. Remember, you're not alone in this fight against Lyme disease. Stay tuned for our next episode where we continue to bring expert voices and stories of resilience to the forefront.

Special Thanks: A heartfelt thank you to Dr. Shelley Ball for sharing her powerful story and to all of you for listening and supporting our mission. Until next time, stay tick-aware and take care.

Episode 392: Finding Resilience - an interview with Rachel and Dorothy Leland

Introduction:

  • Welcome to the Tick Boot Camp Podcast! In this episode, hosts Matt Sabatello and Rich Johannesen are honored to welcome Dorothy and Rachel Leland, the mother-daughter duo behind the compelling book, "Finding Resilience: A Teen’s Journey Through Lyme Disease."

About Our Guests:

  • Dorothy and Rachel Leland share their personal and profound journey battling and overcoming Lyme disease, a story vividly captured in their book, "Finding Resilience: A Teen’s Journey Through Lyme Disease."

Discussion Highlights:

  1. The Origin Story: Dive into the reasons behind writing "Finding Resilience," exploring the unique mother-daughter narrative structure that provides a dual perspective on their Lyme disease journey.
  2. Family Support Systems: Unravel the critical role of family, especially Rachel’s father, Bob, in providing unwavering support throughout their ordeal.
  3. Medical Challenges: Understand the initial symptoms, the struggle for a correct diagnosis, and the skepticism faced from the medical community.
  4. Diagnosis and Treatment: Explore the complexities surrounding Lyme disease diagnosis and treatment, highlighting the resilience and determination the Lelands demonstrated.
  5. Alternative Therapies and Mindset: Delve into the exploration of alternative treatments, including chiropractic care and Dynamic Neural Retraining System (DNRS), and discuss the impact of mindset in the healing process.
  6. The Mold Factor: Discover how environmental factors like mold exposure played a significant role in Rachel's health and their approach to overcoming it.
  7. Community and Advocacy: Discuss the support and guidance received from online communities and support groups, emphasizing the importance of shared experiences.
  8. Themes of Resilience and Hope: Reflect on the overarching themes of resilience and hope that define the Lelands' story.

Resources Discussed:

End Note:

  • Thank you for tuning in to this inspiring episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast. We hope Dorothy and Rachel's story has enlightened and motivated you. Remember, you're not alone in your journey. Share your thoughts on this episode, and let's keep the conversation going. Don't forget to subscribe for more empowering stories and insights.

Contact Information:

  • Reach out to us with your comments, suggestions, or personal stories at our website, TickBootCamp.com. You can also connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube, Twitter, and Threads for more updates and engaging content.

This podcast episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of Lyme disease, the power of resilience, and the importance of family and community support in navigating health challenges.

Episode 391: Lyme Liberation - an interview with Ryan Courneya

  • Introduction:
    • Ryan Courneya is a Lyme disease advocate who delved deep into the intricacies of this illness for years after getting sick and now wishes to share his discoveries and experiences with others.
  • Ryan's Initial Experience with Lyme:
    • Ryan didn’t perceive ticks as dangerous, but hindsight reveals their threat.
    • Endured stress from an intense lifestyle, leaning on exercise and supplements for relief.
    • Pursued a career in marketing at Sanford Health, later transitioning through various sales positions.
    • Began to notice health symptoms intensifying, wondering if they were linked to factors like caffeine intake.
  • Medical Journey:
    • Consulted primary care for routine evaluations.
    • Misdiagnosed with occipital neuralgia and sudden onset depression and anxiety, but his health issues persisted.
    • Felt that numerous doctors disregarded his symptoms.
    • A friend proposed that his health issues might stem from Lyme, an idea that was both alarming and affirming for Ryan.
  • Treatment and Recovery:
    • Tested and found positive for European and American strains of Borrelia Burgdorferi, as well as Babesia Microti, Cytomegalovirus (CMV), Parvovirus, and Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV).
    • Leveraged IV Ozone Therapy with an Ultraviolet (UV) component to combat Lyme bacteria.
    • Incorporated the WAVE1 device by FREmedica, a frequency therapy instrument.
    • Used herbal supplements, particularly Doctor Bill Rawls' Lyme protocol grounded in Stephen Buhner's research.
    • Advocated for a proactive mindset as pivotal in the healing journey.
  • Further Exploration and Treatment:
    • Addressed potential mold concerns and explored methodologies for testing both his physique and residence for mold.
    • Investigated treatments tailored for related viruses.
    • Experimented with methylene blue, deducing it's most effective when combined with red light therapy.
    • Underwent SOT Therapy, a method crafted to pinpoint and exterminate specific pathogens. In Ryan's case, it was directed at Borrelia Burgdorferi, the Lyme-inducing bacterium.
  • Conclusion:
    • Ryan emphasizes that while it's beneficial to reduce and manage pathogens, one doesn't need to eradicate all of them to maintain good health. He notes that certain microbes, like EBV, might remain but can coexist with a strong immune system in a balanced state.
    • Stresses the significance of understanding one's life purpose in confronting chronic diseases.
    • Ryan continues to assist others by recounting his journey.

For a deeper insight into Ryan Courneya's healing trajectory and the therapeutic methods he embraced, tune into the complete episode on our website or any primary podcast platform.

Episode 390: The Unsung Hero - an interview with Doctor Monica Embers

Introduction:

  • Guest: Dr. Monica Embers, Director of Vector-Borne Disease Research and Associate Professor at Tulane University with over 20 years of experience.
  • Topic: Lyme Disease - Testing, Treatment, and Beyond.

1. Diving Deep into the World of Lyme Disease

  • Exploring the sophistication of Lyme disease bacteria.
  • Delving into challenges: unique size, shape, and genetic makeup.
  • Differentiating Lyme bacteria from others and comprehending their behavior.

2. Animal Models in Lyme Research

  • The shift towards studying animal models.
  • Addressing the ethical considerations in animal research.
  • Unpacking the variances: How Lyme bacteria impacts rodents vs. humans.

3. Importance of Research for Clinicians

  • Dr. Embers' vision: Equipping clinicians with vital knowledge and tools.
  • Stressing the need for consistency and validity in research.

4. Challenges in Lyme Disease Diagnosis

  • The hurdles in Lyme diagnosis due to the bacteria's elusive nature.
  • The quest for a direct and reliable diagnostic test.
  • Assessing the drawbacks of present diagnostic measures.

5. Treatment Insights

  • Approaching Lyme treatment with a multi-therapeutic strategy.
  • The debate around prolonged antibiotic therapy.
  • Drawing parallels: Lyme disease treatment vs. tuberculosis.

6. Bacteria Behavior and Characteristics

  • Decoding Lyme disease's stationary phase and its defense mechanisms.
  • Discussing the role of biofilms and their link to Bartonella.
  • Exploring whether or not Lyme disease actually forms biofilms.

7. Bartonella and Cancer

  • Unraveling the potential of Bartonella in inducing cellular changes leading to cancer.
  • The journey of ongoing research to decode Bartonella's extensive effects.

8. Chronic Lyme is Real

  • Dr. Embers' groundbreaking work proving that Chronic Lyme disease is a reality and that Lyme bacteria can persist.
  • Dozens of published research papers with irrefutable evidence of chronic Lyme disease.

Stay tuned for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Monica Embers as we explore the intricate world of Lyme Disease.

Episode 389: Genesis Center - an interview with Doctor Mack H. Sloan Jr.

Today's guest is Dr. Hank Sloan, an esteemed practitioner renowned for his expertise in SOT, Stem Cells, Peptides, NAD, Nootropics, and Ketamine therapies.

Key Takeaways:

  1. Dr. Sloan's Personal Connection with Lyme Disease:
    • Dr. Sloan discusses his experiences growing up in Deep South Georgia, being covered with ticks, and how he believes he grew up with Lyme disease.
  2. The Tiring Journey of Misdiagnosis:
    • Many patients go from doctor to doctor, medical center to medical center, without finding solutions. Dr. Sloan touches on the frustrations many face and the lowered expectations patients can develop.
  3. Learning from Experience and Self-Healing:
    • Dr. Sloan's own health journey involved understanding mast cells before they became widely recognized. His path of self-healing changed his perspective on traditional medical schooling.
  4. The Role of Diagnostic Labs:
    • Emphasis on the significance of medical diagnostic labs like those in New Jersey. Dr. Sloan praises the precision of Vibrant Labs and Medical Diagnostic Labs (MDL), even over established names like LabCorp and Quest.
  5. Understanding Lyme Through Graphs:
    • Dr. Sloan describes an insightful "camel humps" graph to help visualize the Lyme infection process as it relates to antibody development and testing.
  6. Holistic Approach vs. Traditional Treatment Philosophy:
    • Delving into the difference between treating pure Lyme bacteria vs. treating Lyme bacteria and the person as a whole, which Dr. Sloan calls Quantum Medicine.
  7. Lyme Impact on the Immune System:
    • Dr. Sloan challenges the commonly accepted narrative of autoimmunity, emphasizing that the immune system doesn't randomly attack healthy cells.
  8. SOT (Supportive Oligonucleotide Technique):
    • Dr. Sloan discusses the efficacy of SOT, a treatment that has gained traction due to its targeted approach.
  9. Role of Environment in Treatment:
    • Importance of understanding and altering the patient's environment, especially in cases where mold plays a significant role.
  10. Advanced Treatments and Therapies:
    • Dr. Sloan's expertise in stem cells, Peptides, NAD, Nootropics, and ketamine therapies offers a comprehensive approach to rebuilding patients post-treatment.

Episode 388: Irish Lyme Insights - an interview with Doctor John Lambert

Background of Dr. John Lambert:

  • Dr. John Lambert was born in Scotland, parents immigrated to America, thus obtaining an American education.
  • Returned to the UK in 1999 before settling in Dublin, Ireland shortly after.
  • Working as an infectious disease and Lyme specialist for 18 years.

Education & Professional Journey:

  • College in Kalamazoo, Michigan.
  • Attended University of Sterling in Scotland.
  • Expressed the challenges of transitioning between countries.
  • Always had an inclination towards medical school, initially interested in tropical medicine.
  • Work experience in Haiti at a Mission Hospital.

Infectious Disease Conferences & Updates:

  • Attended a recent Infectious Disease Society of America (IDSA) conference in Boston.
  • Updates on Lyme, coronavirus, HIV/AIDS, tropical medicine, and vaccine developments.

Intricacies of Infectious Diseases:

  • The dual excitement of diagnosing and treating infectious diseases, like Lyme disease.
  • The significance of monitoring patients.
  • Emphasis on evidence-based treatments and results.

Publications and Expertise:

  • Dr. Lambert's 25+ publications.
  • The importance of verifying experts through PubMed searches.
  • The challenges of diagnostics in the Lyme community.

Defining Lyme Disease:

  • Tick Boot Camp provides Tick Boot Camp's definition of Lyme disease.
  • Dr. Lambert's perspective on the definition and the polymicrobial nature of Lyme.

Treatment Guidelines and Controversies:

  • Irish guidelines on Lyme treatment.
  • The debate on chronic Lyme and the skepticism surrounding it.

Immune System Implications:

  • Lyme disease's dual impact on the immune system: immune suppression and potential autoimmune reactions.
  • Discussion on the potential similarities and differences between Lyme disease and other conditions like long COVID.

Diagnostic Tools and Collaborations:

  • Collaboration with Dr. Samiy from the University of North Carolina State.
  • Newer diagnostic tools and their significance.

Treatment Modalities and Approaches:

  • The utilization of LDN (Low Dose Naltrexone) and NAC (N-acetyl cysteine).
  • The importance of maintaining a healthy microbiome.
  • Dr. Lambert's collaborative approach, working alongside herbalists.

Final Thoughts:

  • Emphasizing the bacterial nature of Lyme disease.
  • The importance of timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
The goal of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast is to help people liberate themselves and others from suffering caused by Lyme disease through validation, community building, belief that healing is possible, and modeling success. Listen to our Tick Boot Camp podcast using all major podcast streaming services such as Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube Music. Our podcast is also integrated with smart home devices, such as Amazon Alexa and Apple TV. Ask your device to "play the Tick Boot Camp Podcast!"