Tick Boot Camp

In This Episode: Nicole Bell, CEO of Galaxy Diagnostics, shares her journey from personal experience with Lyme disease in her family to leading innovation in diagnostics. The connection between tick-borne pathogens and chronic diseases like early-onset Alzheimer’s. Why traditional Lyme disease tests often fail and the need for direct detection methods. The latest advancements in testing for Borrelia, Bartonella, Babesia, and other stealth pathogens. The impact of Nicole’s "State of Lyme Disease Research" report on the Lyme community. What patients and healthcare providers need to know about cutting-edge diagnostic tools. Why This Matters: An increasing number of studies link flea- and tick-borne pathogens to chronic illnesses affecting the joints, heart, and central nervous system. These infections mimic conditions like lupus and fibromyalgia, making them hard to diagnose without advanced testing. Galaxy Diagnostics offers specialized tests to detect Lyme Borrelia, Bartonella, Babesia, Anaplasma, Ehrlichia, and Rickettsia species—providing a much-needed solution for patients seeking accurate diagnoses. Resources & Links: 🔗 Follow the latest ILADS updates at ILADS.org 🔬 Learn more about Nicole Bell and Galaxy Diagnostics: www.galaxydx.com 📲 Stay connected with Tick Boot Camp: Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | TikTok | Twitter (X)

Join us as we interview Dr. Steven Harris, a leader in chronic Lyme disease treatment, live from the ILADS Conference. Dr. Harris has been treating complex chronic illnesses for over two decades, pioneering integrative and personalized approaches for Lyme disease, tickborne infections, ME/CFS, mold/mycotoxin illness, and more. Key Takeaways: A Legacy in Lyme Disease: Dr. Harris' deep roots in the Lyme community, with his father being an early pioneer in Lyme diagnostics. Evolution of Treatment: From antibiotic-centric approaches to a more comprehensive, individualized treatment model. Addressing Chronic Lyme's Complexity: Insights into the multi-systemic nature of the illness and the role of regenerative medicine. "Order of Treatment" Approach: A sneak peek into Dr. Harris' upcoming book, which outlines his strategic framework for treating chronic illness. PARM vs. Harris' Approach: How his method compares with the Prehabilitation, Assist, Rehabilitation, Maintenance (PARM) model. This insightful conversation sheds light on the latest advancements and challenges in Lyme disease treatment, offering valuable takeaways for both patients and healthcare providers. Resources & Links: Follow the latest ILADS updates: ILADS.org Learn more about Dr. Steven Harris: Gordon Medical - Dr. Harris Stay connected with Tick Boot Camp: Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | TikTok | Twitter (X)

In this special live episode from the International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society (ILADS) Conference, Tick Boot Camp sits down with Sarah Keating, a retired pathologist and board member of the Canadian Lyme Disease Foundation (CanLyme). Sarah shares her deeply personal journey of advocating for Lyme disease awareness in Canada following her daughter's tragic battle with Lyme and Babesiosis. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Sarah Keating’s personal story and how it shaped her Lyme disease advocacy Challenges of Lyme disease diagnosis and treatment within the Canadian healthcare system The misconceptions of Canada's socialized medical system when it comes to Lyme disease CanLyme’s mission and initiatives, including tick removal kits, tick testing, and telemedicine The systemic barriers preventing proper Lyme disease recognition and treatment in Canada Why grassroots advocacy and public awareness are key to change About the Canadian Lyme Disease Foundation (CanLyme): CanLyme is a volunteer-run charitable organization dedicated to research, education, and advocacy for Lyme disease and associated conditions. Their mission includes: Promoting awareness through community presentations and online outreach Funding research to improve diagnostics and treatments Engaging with the scientific and medical community to ensure accurate, up-to-date information Advocating for policy changes to improve Lyme disease recognition and patient care in Canada Resources & Links: Follow the latest ILADS updates: ILADS.org Learn more about CanLyme and their work: CanLyme.com Stay connected with Tick Boot Camp: Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | TikTok | Twitter (X)

In this special live episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, we sit down with Braden and Bill Rawls, co-founders of Vital Plan, at the International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society (ILADS) Conference. They share insights on how Vital Plan is creating high-quality herbal supplements and support services for individuals battling chronic Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses. Learn how a sustainable business model can empower the Lyme community and improve health outcomes. Key Takeaways: Customer Feedback Drives Innovation – How listening to customers has shaped Vital Plan’s product development and support services. For-Profit vs. Non-Profit Models – Why Vital Plan chose a for-profit approach to better serve the Lyme community. The Healing Journey Requires More Than Just Supplements – The role of emotional and physical support in recovery. Gut Health & Herbal Therapy – The impact of antibiotics on gut health and why herbs can be a gentler, long-term solution. Affordability & Value – How Vital Plan offers cost-effective and high-quality herbal solutions compared to other treatments. Building a Toolbox for Health – The importance of proactively managing health with a variety of tools. The Power of Community – How fostering a supportive and positive community is crucial for healing. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in holistic health, the Lyme disease community, and mission-driven businesses that put people first. Resources & Links: Follow the latest ILADS updates: ILADS.org Learn more about Braden Rawls & Vital Plan: RawlsMD.com Stay connected with Tick Boot Camp: Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | TikTok | Twitter (X)

Jennifer Barrett, a Lyme disease patient-turned-advocate and Doctor of Law (JD), joins us live from the ILADS Conference to share her powerful journey. Diagnosed at just 10 years old, Jennifer faced significant challenges in accessing proper treatment and navigating financial and insurance hurdles. Now, she’s using her legal expertise to push for policy changes and improved insurance coverage for Lyme patients. Key Takeaways: Jennifer’s early Lyme disease diagnosis and struggles navigating the healthcare system in Connecticut, the birthplace of Lyme disease. The financial and insurance-related barriers that make long-term treatment difficult for Lyme patients. How her personal experience inspired her to earn a law degree and advocate for legislative change. Insights from her published law review article, Lyme: Why Congress Must Enact Medical Insurance Coverage for Lyme Disease Patients Now. Her ongoing efforts to work with state and federal representatives to push for meaningful policy changes. This episode sheds light on the patient experience and the urgent need for legal and insurance reforms in Lyme disease care. Jennifer’s advocacy is a testament to the power of patient-driven change in the fight for better treatment and coverage. Resources & Links: 🔗 Follow the latest ILADS updates at ILADS.org 🔗 Learn more about Jennifer Barrett: Facebook 🔗 Stay connected with Tick Boot Camp: Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | TikTok | Twitter (X)

In this episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, Dr. Chris Turnpaugh of Turnpaugh Health shares his holistic approach to treating chronic Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses. He discusses the importance of addressing the whole body, not just killing the pathogen, and the role of neuroplasticity in recovery. Key topics include: Overview of Turnpaugh Health's multidisciplinary practice Dr. Turnpaugh's educational journey from chiropractic to functional medicine The inside-out approach of chiropractic and its impact on the nervous system Neuroplasticity and its influence on immune function and mood disorders Natural antimicrobials like Crypto Lepus and Cat's Claw Biofilm disruptors such as medical-grade stevia and NAC Supplements for sleep, mood, and mitochondrial support Dr. Turnpaugh provides valuable insights and practical recommendations for chronic Lyme patients seeking a comprehensive path to healing. Key Takeaways: Multidisciplinary approach addressing physical, emotional, and mental aspects of chronic illness Importance of supporting the body's physiology, not just killing pathogens Role of neuroplasticity in chronic Lyme and strategies for retraining the nervous system Natural antimicrobials and biofilm disruptors as part of a holistic treatment plan Supplements for sleep, mood, and mitochondrial health About Dr. Chris Turnpaugh: Dr. Chris Turnpaugh is the founder and President of Turnpaugh Health & Wellness Center, leading a team dedicated to patient-focused, integrative care. With post-doctorate certification in functional neurology and training from the Carrick Institute, the Institute for Functional Medicine, and A4M, he specializes in autoimmune diseases, thyroid disorders, neurological conditions, and anti-aging medicine. Beyond his clinical practice, Dr. Turnpaugh is an educator, teaching healthcare providers nationwide about functional medicine principles. He is an active member of the International Lyme Disease Association, PCA, A4M, IFM, and the International Association for Functional Neurology. When he’s not treating patients or educating practitioners, Dr. Turnpaugh enjoys hiking, scuba diving, and cheering on his favorite college football team. Products & Resources Mentioned Available on Dr. Turnpaugh's Website: Liposomal Cryptolepis: Broad-spectrum natural antimicrobial effective against Lyme, Bartonella, and other tick-borne infections Cats Claw Elite: Natural antimicrobial with anti-parasitic properties As Soon As you are Bit (ASAB - ASAB 2): ASAB is a potent herbal formulation meticulously crafted to combat tick-borne infections and ASAB 2 coverage extends to address persister cells that may emerge due to antibiotic usage and is effective against parasites. Mellow (Serenity DHH-B Complex): Sleep aid containing Dihydrohonokiol-B from Magnolia Bark to calm the nervous system Extinguisher: Anti-inflammatory blend with Turmeric, Resveratrol, Perilla Seed Extract, and Quercetin MitoSpark: Supports mitochondrial health and function Bitter X: Herbal bitters to support detoxification and bile flow for things like microplastics NAC+: Glutathione precursor to support detoxification and antioxidant status Turmero XL: Highly bioavailable turmeric extract for reducing inflammation Rejuvenate: Supports mast cell function and dampens inflammatory responses immunoREBOOT: Helps retrain the immune system and reduce inappropriate reactions Follow & Subscribe: If you enjoyed this episode of our Tick Boot Camp Podcast, be sure to subscribe and leave a review! Connect with us on social media for more expert interviews and insights into functional medicine and chronic illness recovery.

Key Points: Megan Bradshaw shares her personal recovery journey and how it led her to pursue a master's in public health at UNC Chapel Hill. She discusses her new role as Government Relations Manager for the Center for Lyme Action, a 501(c)(4) nonprofit dedicated to increasing federal funding for tick-borne disease research and policy. The Center for Lyme Action organizes "fly-in" events, where patients and advocates virtually meet with members of Congress to share their stories and push for increased Lyme disease funding. Megan highlights the power of grassroots advocacy, explaining how patient voices influence legislative change despite bureaucratic hurdles. She explores opportunities within the current administration's focus on chronic illnesses and the potential role of federal agencies in tackling Lyme disease. Megan encourages patients and caregivers to participate in the upcoming virtual "fly-in" event, offering training and support to help them make a difference. Advocacy is not just about policy—it can be an empowering part of the healing journey, providing patients with purpose, connection, and a platform for change. Resources & Links: 🔗 Follow the latest ILADS updates at ILADS.org 🔗 Learn more about Megan Bradshaw: Instagram @mcbradshaw 🔗Center for Lyme Action Website: CenterForLymeAction.org 🔗 Stay connected with Tick Boot Camp: Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | TikTok | Twitter (X)

Key Takeaways: Red Laboratories' Holistic Approach: A comprehensive testing strategy that examines not only pathogens but also immune function and gut health. Phage-Based Borrelia Testing: A groundbreaking method utilizing bacteriophages to directly detect active Borrelia infections, enhancing diagnostic accuracy. Gut Microbiome and Leaky Gut: The vital connection between gut health and Lyme disease, with in-house microbiome testing revealing dysbiosis in most patients. Immune Function Testing: Advanced biomarkers and immune messengers provide insights into the immune system's response to tick-borne infections. Personalized Testing and Treatment: Red Laboratories collaborates with healthcare providers to create tailored testing and treatment plans for each patient. Resources & Links: 🔗 Follow the latest ILADS updates at ILADS.org 🔗 Learn more about Tanja Mijatovic and Red Laboratories 🔗 Stay connected with Tick Boot Camp: Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | TikTok | Twitter (X)

Join Tick Boot Camp for an exclusive live interview from the ILADS Conference with renowned neuropsychologist Dr. Leo Shea. Dr. Shea, a past president of ILADS, shares groundbreaking insights into the physiological underpinnings of psychiatric and psychological symptoms in Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses. Key Takeaways: The historical shift from viewing psychiatric conditions as theological to recognizing their physiological basis The importance of a multidisciplinary approach involving both medical and psychological professionals The impact of misdiagnosis and "medical gaslighting" on patients' mental health The role of social isolation, loss of purpose, and identity in the healing journey How inflammation and infection in the brain can contribute to cognitive and psychiatric symptoms The influence of trauma, both past and present, on the presentation of Lyme disease The significance of addressing environmental factors like mold and heavy metals ILADS' recommendation for a team-based approach to Lyme disease treatment Resources & Links: Follow the latest ILADS updates: ILADS.org Learn more about Dr. Leo Shea: Saint Michael’s College Spotlight Stay connected with Tick Boot Camp: Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | TikTok | Twitter (X)

In this special live episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, recorded at the International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society (ILADS) Conference, host Richard Johannesen sits down with Joel Adams, the founder of CelWel, and Dr. Jason Bachewich, a Lyme-literate naturopathic doctor from Winnipeg, Canada. Together, they explore how CellWell, an innovative supplement, is showing promising results in the treatment of chronic Lyme disease and long COVID. Key Takeaways: Joel Adams’ Journey: Learn about how CelWel was developed, initially used for COVID-19 patients, and its potential to support those with chronic illnesses like Lyme disease. Lyme Disease in Canada: Dr. Bucha provides insights into the challenges of diagnosing and treating Lyme disease in Canada, especially in the Winnipeg area. CelWel’s Impact: The supplement's anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and anti-parasitic properties are discussed in detail, showing how it helps modulate the immune system for chronic Lyme patients. Real-World Results: Dr. Bucha shares a personal success story about using CelWel with his daughter to address severe long COVID symptoms, noting significant improvements. Collaborative Approach: Hear how Joel Adams and other Lyme-literate doctors, including Dr. Destiny Green, are working together to use CelWel with pediatric patients for positive results. Resources & Links: Follow the latest ILADS updates at ILADS.org Learn more about Joel Adams and CelWel at CelWel.com Stay connected with Tick Boot Camp: Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | TikTok | Twitter