The Deep Six

East Meets West: Where Chinese Medicine and Modern Longevity Align | The Deep Six | Episode 37

On this episode of The Deep Six Podcast, Dr. James Lewerenz sits down with Dr. Samantha Buchanan, DACM, owner of Pointe Acupuncture & Integrative Medicine, to explore how Chinese medicine and Western functional medicine can work together in modern longevity care. Dr. Buchanan shares how a serious running injury led her from a pre-med path into acupuncture, herbs, and integrative practice, along with what comprehensive intake and pattern-based assessment look like in real life. They break down how acupuncture may support the autonomic nervous system and vagus nerve, helping with stress, sleep, chronic pain, and recovery, and why practitioner training and licensure matter when symptoms could signal something more serious. The conversation also touches on fertility and IVF support, plus the “five pillars” fundamentals, including the often-overlooked impact of social connection on long-term health.
Chapters00:00 Introduction to Dr. Sam’s Practice04:07 Journey to Chinese Medicine08:39 Acupuncture Experience and Diagnosis14:24 Acupuncture Approaches and Specialties19:16 The Importance of Licensed Practitioners23:56 Acupuncture for Stress and Infertility33:49 Social Life and Generational Wisdom43:20 Acupuncture for Pets and Powerful Results
Guest Links:Point Acupuncture: https://www.pointeacupuncture.com/
About:Dr. James Lewerenz takes a multifaceted approach to impact the lives of his patients. Using functional medicine, he looks at every patient on an individual, case-by-case basis, asks lots of questions, and works diligently to find the root cause of the individual's chronic pain or illness. Dr. Lewerenz is passionate and dedicated to bringing his personal experience, knowledge, and training to enhance one’s quality of life, at any age. Be well!
Longevity Health Institute633 E South Blvd. Ste 2200Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 289-6643https://www.longevityhealthinstituteinc.com/

How Nitric Oxide Supports Vascular Health and Healthy Aging | The Deep Six | Episode 36

On this episode of The Deep Six, Dr. James Lewerenz sits down with Cathy Eason, MS, BCHN, FNTP, Chief Science Officer at Berkeley Life, to unpack why nitric oxide is so central to vascular health, aging, and daily performance. Cathy explains how nitric oxide works in the body, why levels decline with age, and why endothelial health must be a lifelong priority, not just a concern after symptoms show up.They explore the difference between amino acid-based approaches like arginine and clinically studied dietary nitrates, the role of the oral microbiome and saliva in nitric oxide production, and how support can impact blood pressure, energy, recovery, cognition, sexual wellness, and more. Cathy also previews upcoming research in peri- and post-menopausal women and shares practical reasons nitric oxide support belongs in every long-term prevention strategy.
Timestamps00:00 Welcome & Guest Introduction02:16 Cathy’s Background & Nitric Oxide Importance05:41 Gratitude and Personal Insights07:04 What is Nitric Oxide?12:26 N.O. Supplementation & Benefits17:44 Arginine vs. Nitrate Pathways & Oral Health23:12 The Entero-Salivary Pathway27:34 Top Benefits of Nitric Oxide33:03 Future Research & Menopause Focus38:43 Conclusion & Call to Action
Guest Links: https://berkeleylife.com/
About:Dr. James Lewerenz takes a multifaceted approach to impact the lives of his patients. Using functional medicine, he looks at every patient on an individual, case-by-case basis, asks lots of questions, and works diligently to find the root cause of the individual's chronic pain or illness. Dr. Lewerenz is passionate and dedicated to bringing his personal experience, knowledge, and training to enhance one’s quality of life, at any age. Be well!
Longevity Health Institute633 E South Blvd. Ste 2200Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 289-6643https://www.longevityhealthinstituteinc.com/

Trust, Time, and Triage: What Really Happens in the ER | The Deep Six | Episode 35

On this episode of The Deep Six Podcast, Dr. James Lewerenz welcomes emergency medicine physician Dr. Roya Caloia for a powerful conversation about the realities of life in the ER. Dr. Caloia shares how her journey shifted from public health and OB-GYN aspirations to discovering her passion for emergency medicine, where every day offers an opportunity to impact lives during their most critical moments. She explains the challenges of modern healthcare, including the decline of long-term patient–doctor relationships, increased ER demand, and the troubling rise of anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.Dr. Caloia also offers practical advice for patients, including the importance of bringing medication lists, being patient with wait times, and trusting the ER team’s priorities. This episode highlights both the intensity and honor of emergency medicine, blending honesty with hope.
Timestamps00:00 Welcome & ER Doctor’s Journey04:15 The ER as a ‘Dumping Ground’11:13 Healthcare System Challenges19:20 ER Stories and Realities27:06 DO Training and Philosophy32:25 Dr. Caloia’s Leadership Role34:51 Navigating the ER: A Patient’s Guide39:39 Essential ER Preparedness Tips43:06 Don’t Fear the ER46:02 Rising Mental Health Crisis50:08 Gratitude and Life’s Simple Pleasures
About:Dr. James Lewerenz takes a multifaceted approach to impact the lives of his patients. Using functional medicine, he looks at every patient on an individual, case-by-case basis, asks lots of questions, and works diligently to find the root cause of the individual's chronic pain or illness. Dr. Lewerenz is passionate and dedicated to bringing his personal experience, knowledge, and training to enhance one’s quality of life, at any age. Be well!
Longevity Health Institute633 E South Blvd. Ste 2200Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 289-6643https://www.longevityhealthinstituteinc.com/

Ask Me Anything: Building Strength, Restoring Sleep, and Boosting Energy | The Deep Six | Episode 34

Dr. Lewerenz is back with his second AMA, answering listener questions that speak to common challenges many of us face. He explains why aging and autoimmunity can lead to frequent falls and fractures and offers ways to build stronger bones, protect balance, and stay active at any age.He also shares practical strategies for better sleep, including magnesium, melatonin, grounding sheets, peptides, and the importance of consistent sleep routines. You’ll hear what’s new in the peptide world, the growing shift to oral GLP-1 medications, and why B12 injections remain a powerful tool for energy, mood, and nerve health.With real-life stories, science-based advice, and decades of experience, this AMA gives listeners clear steps to support their health and thrive, not just survive.
Chapters00:00 Welcome & Deep Six Model Overview02:29 Falls, Fractures & Autoimmunity08:10 Decades of Sleep Troubles16:30 New in the Peptide World18:39 The Importance of B12
About:Dr. James Lewerenz takes a multifaceted approach to impact the lives of his patients. Using functional medicine, he looks at every patient on an individual, case-by-case basis, asks lots of questions, and works diligently to find the root cause of the individual's chronic pain or illness. Dr. Lewerenz is passionate and dedicated to bringing his personal experience, knowledge, and training to enhance one’s quality of life, at any age. Be well!
Longevity Health Institute633 E South Blvd. Ste 2200Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 289-6643https://www.longevityhealthinstituteinc.com/

Structural Health Matters: How Your Spine Shapes Your Life | The Deep Six | Episode 33

On this episode of The Deep Six Podcast, Dr. James Lewerenz welcomes world-renowned neurosurgeon Dr. Daniel Fahim for an in-depth discussion on spine health, chronic pain, and the latest surgical advances. Dr. Fahim, recognized among the nation’s top neurosurgeons, shares his journey from early fascination with the brain to performing over 700 surgeries a year. He explains how minimally invasive spine techniques and disc replacements are transforming patient recovery, reducing pain, and preserving mobility compared to traditional fusions.The conversation also highlights warning signs of spinal cord injury, the importance of timely care to prevent chronic pain, and why patient expectations play a critical role in recovery. Dr. Fahim emphasizes fitness, motion preservation, and trust between doctor and patient as keys to lasting outcomes. This episode offers both education and reassurance for anyone facing structural challenges that impact quality of life.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Dr. Daniel Fahim02:47 Dr. Fahim’s Background and Reputation05:38 Passion for Neurosurgery and Spine Health08:40 Transformative Cancer Cases11:24 Advances in Spine Surgery: Fusion vs. Replacement15:50 Choosing a Spine Surgeon & First Surgery19:27 International Missionary Work & Post-Surgery Recovery22:12 Warning Signs of Spinal Cord Injury27:08 Surgeon’s Fitness and Patient Expectations30:08 Personal Spine Journey and MRI Review37:53 Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Benefits40:23 Patient Empowerment and Trust43:00 Conclusion and Contact Information
Guest Links:Website: drdanielfahim.com
About:Dr. James Lewerenz takes a multifaceted approach to impact the lives of his patients. Using functional medicine, he looks at every patient on an individual, case-by-case basis, asks lots of questions, and works diligently to find the root cause of the individual's chronic pain or illness. Dr. Lewerenz is passionate and dedicated to bringing his personal experience, knowledge, and training to enhance one’s quality of life, at any age. Be well!
Longevity Health Institute633 E South Blvd. Ste 2200Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 289-6643https://www.longevityhealthinstituteinc.com/

Ask Me Anything: Real Answers for Building Wellness | The Deep Six | Episode 32

Dr. James Lewerenz hosts his first Q&A, tackling listener questions with clear, science-based answers. From probiotics and hormone balance to EMF safety, immune support, and emerging therapies, he explains how targeted actions can create lasting health improvements. He highlights the foundational role of gut health, why probiotics belong in most supplement plans, and how daily habits influence long-term vitality.The conversation also addresses health myths, environmental toxins, GLP-1 medications, and strategies for lowering inflammation, boosting immunity, and protecting against chronic disease. Every answer reinforces the goal of living with quality, purpose, and strength, using personalized approaches that help people thrive at every stage of life.
Chapters00:01 – Welcome and Introduction to the First AMA03:06 – Should Everyone Take a Probiotic?09:40 – What Is the Most Important Point of the Six-Point Model?12:32 – What Are Your Thoughts on AirPods and the Brain?18:03 – What Are the Most Common Health Myths and Misconceptions?23:14 – What Common Toxins Are We Exposed to Daily Without Realizing?26:33 – Aside from Exercise, What Is One Non-Negotiable You Do Daily for Your Health?30:21 – If You Could Tell Your Younger Self One Health Tip, What Would It Be?33:13 – How Do Estrogen Levels, Detox Pathways, and Inflammation Relate to Cancer Prevention?39:26 – What Are the Best Strategies to Boost Immunity Before a Cold or Flu?44:44 – What Is the Best Approach Once Through Perimenopause? (And Andropause for Men)52:20 – Between Exercise, Diet, and Genetics, Where’s the Most Bang for the Buck?54:14 – Besides Phlebotomies, How Can You Reduce Ferritin Without Dropping Hemoglobin Too Low?57:37 – What Is the Most Effective Treatment for Exercise-Related Hip and Back Pain?1:02:15 – What Are the Pros, Cons, and Side Effects of GLP-1 Medications and How Do You Prevent Them?
About:Dr. James Lewerenz takes a multifaceted approach to impact the lives of his patients. Using functional medicine, he looks at every patient on an individual, case-by-case basis, asks lots of questions, and works diligently to find the root cause of the individual's chronic pain or illness. Dr. Lewerenz is passionate and dedicated to bringing his personal experience, knowledge, and training to enhance one’s quality of life, at any age. Be well!
Longevity Health Institute633 E South Blvd. Ste 2200Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 289-6643https://www.longevityhealthinstituteinc.com/

Don’t Wait for Symptoms: Why Preventive Imaging Matters | The Deep Six | Episode 31

Dr. James Lewerenz welcomes Bionicc Body Screening’s Ryan Ringold to share the personal story behind their full-body MRI screening mission, inspired by his father’s late-stage cancer diagnosis. They explore how early detection through imaging can uncover life-threatening conditions like cancer, aneurysms, and liver disease before symptoms ever appear.You’ll learn what full-body MRI can and cannot detect, how it differs from diagnostic scans, and why even healthy, asymptomatic people should consider it. Dr. Lewerenz highlights real patient cases, connects the insights to his structural health pillar, and explains how a screening like this can not only save your life but also protect your lifestyle.You’ll leave with a sharper lens on your health and a strong case for choosing proactive screening over reactive care.
Guest Links:https://www.bioniccbodyscreening.com/https://www.facebook.com/bioniccbodyscreeninghttps://www.instagram.com/bioniccbodyscreening/
Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Deep Six Podcast01:02 Ryan Ringold’s Inspiring Journey05:03 Understanding Symptoms and Hindsight08:01 The Importance of Early Detection09:31 What to Expect from a Full Body MRI13:00 Identifying Health Risks through Screening19:00 Addressing Digestive Health Concerns23:35 The Power of Information in Health29:07 Navigating Results and Follow-Up Care30:07 Facing Health Fears: A Personal Story31:10 Understanding Medical Findings: Incidental vs. Concerning34:01 The Life-Saving Impact of Early Detection36:01 Navigating Results: What to Expect39:00 The Cost of Preventive Health: Is It Worth It?41:00 A New Generation of Health Awareness43:02 Closing Thoughts: Embracing a Proactive Health Approach
About:Dr. James Lewerenz takes a multifaceted approach to impact the lives of his patients. Using functional medicine, he looks at every patient on an individual, case-by-case basis, asks lots of questions, and works diligently to find the root cause of the individual's chronic pain or illness. Dr. Lewerenz is passionate and dedicated to bringing his personal experience, knowledge, and training to enhance one’s quality of life, at any age. Be well!
Longevity Health Institute633 E South Blvd. Ste 2200Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 289-6643https://www.longevityhealthinstituteinc.com/

Peptides, Protein, and the Right Way to Lose Weight | The Deep Six | Episode 30

Dr. Lewerenz welcomes James LaValle for a deep dive into recovery, wearables, and metabolic health. They discuss the importance of balancing training with recovery by focusing on sleep, nutrition, and breathing techniques. James shares how to use fitness trackers without becoming overly fixated on the numbers. They cover GLP-1 medications for weight loss and the need to preserve lean muscle through protein intake and strength training. Peptide therapies like BPC-157 and sermorelin offer support for inflammation and circadian rhythm. If you're chasing peak performance without burning out, this episode might be the reset your body has been waiting for.
Chapters00:00 Welcome to the Deep Six Podcast02:05 Current Endeavors in Medicine04:04 Working with Special Forces06:27 The Arctic Challenge08:16 The Importance of Recovery10:21 The Role of Education in Health11:38 Advancements in Medical Education12:56 Wearable Health Devices14:56 Understanding Heart Rate Recovery17:01 Managing Stress and Recovery21:15 The Challenge of Overtraining24:06 The Science of Cold Plunges27:34 Emerging Trends in Peptides30:02 The Epidemic of Metabolic Disorders32:04 The Slippery Slope of Weight Loss Solutions34:50 Innovative Approaches to Gut Health36:00 Peptides and Aging: A New Frontier39:40 The Future of Liposomal Delivery Systems41:34 The Metabolic Code: A Systems Approach45:01 Navigating Biohacking and Personalized Medicine51:44 Closing Thoughts and Future Directions
About:Dr. James Lewerenz takes a multifaceted approach to impact the lives of his patients. Using functional medicine, he looks at every patient on an individual, case-by-case basis, asks lots of questions, and works diligently to find the root cause of the individual's chronic pain or illness. Dr. Lewerenz is passionate and dedicated to bringing his personal experience, knowledge, and training to enhance one’s quality of life, at any age. Be well!
Longevity Health Institute633 E South Blvd. Ste 2200Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (248) 289-6643https://www.longevityhealthinstituteinc.com/