Becoming Immune Confident - podcast cover

Becoming Immune Confident

Kara Wada, MDwww.drkarawada.com
Welcome to the Becoming Immune Confident Podcast, a show that delves deep into the science of immunity and explores the confidence that comes with developing the skills and traits to tackle any obstacle that comes our way.The podcast gets its name from the idea that we are always evolving and growing, which is encompassed by the word "becoming." We are in constant motion, and the work of self-improvement is never truly done.The term "immune" has a dual meaning on this show. On one hand, it refers to our bodies' immune system, which includes allergies, asthma, autoimmunity, and inflammatory conditions. But it also refers to the resilience that comes with encountering and overcoming challenges. When we've been through tough times before, we can draw on that experience to face whatever comes next.This resilience and sense of overcoming challenges fits nicely into the idea of "confidence," which is the feeling we get when we trust in our own abilities. It's the feeling of standing tall, with our feet firmly on the ground, and speaking with conviction. Even though the future is always uncertain, we can still work to develop the skills and traits that will help us succeed.In this podcast, we explore the science of immunity and the confidence that comes with developing the traits and skills that will help us navigate life's challenges. Join us on this journey of self-discovery and character development as we strive to become immune confident. In upcoming episodes, we'll be sharing stories and insights that will inspire and empower you to become the best version of yourself.
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Episodes

Episode 127 - BONUS Episode: Lessons We Didn't Learn in Medical School

Do you ever feel like something's missing in healthcare? Like there are important conversations we should be having, but aren't? Get ready for a sneak peek into a brand-new podcast, "Lessons We Didn't Learn in Medical School," hosted by Dr. Kara Wada and Dr. Beth Vukin. In this special bonus episode of "Becoming Immune Confident," Dr. Kara shares what inspired this exciting project, a taste of the powerful conversations to come, and how YOU can be a part of the movement by joining their Launch T...

Nov 27, 202417 min

Episode 126: Unmasking MCAS, The Gut-Brain Connection and Its Impact on Sjogren's

Have you ever wondered if there's a connection between mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS) and Sjogren's? 🤔 In this episode of the Becoming Immune Confident Podcast, Dr. Kara Wada explores the fascinating world of mast cells, those "allergy cells" that have been with us since prehistoric times! She breaks down the mysteries of MCAS, explaining what mast cells are, how they can misbehave, and the possible overlaps between MCAS and Sjogren's. Dr. Wada, an allergist-immunologist and someone livin...

Oct 09, 202431 min

Episode 125: The Human Side of Medicine: Living with Chronic Illness in Medical School with Stephanie Moss

Have you ever been told your pain is "just medical student anxiety?" Or faced a diagnosis during a stressful time like medical school? This week, we're diving into the experience of medical student and advocate, Stephanie Moss, and how she navigated chronic illness, medical gaslighting, and even a leave of absence from her medical education. In this episode, Dr. Kara Wada sits down with Stephanie Moss, a fourth-year medical student and advocate, to discuss her journey with chronic illness, navig...

Sep 25, 202432 min

Episode 124: Paint It Green: The Climate Crisis & Your Immune System w/ The People’s CO2’s Dr. Tanya Rogers

Did you know that air pollution can increase the effects of allergies threefold? Imagine a world where you could paint your way to cleaner air. Dr. Kara Wada sits down with Dr. Tanya Rogers, a NASA engineer with a passion for sustainability, to discuss her journey from space exploration to launching a company dedicated to carbon capture. Dr. Rogers shares her story of navigating a demanding career path while also facing chronic health challenges, inspiring listeners to embrace acceptance and pri...

Sep 11, 202426 min

Episode 123: Conquering Chronic Pain and Reclaiming an Active Life with DK Ciccone

We all know that movement is essential for health, but what if you're dealing with chronic pain? Many people feel limited, even discouraged, from embracing movement because of fear or past experiences. But what if that even with chronic pain, movement can be a source of joy and empowerment? In this week's podcast episode of the Becoming Immune Confident Podcast, Dr. Kara Wada had the pleasure of speaking with DK Ciccone, a certified Pilates instructor and author of "You're Meant to Move," who sh...

Aug 28, 202438 min

Episode 122: Gut Health Secrets for a Stronger Immune System with Dr. Vivian Asamoah

We all know the importance of a strong immune system, but what if the key to unlocking your immune confidence lies within your gut? That's right, the health of your digestive system plays a crucial role in bolstering your immune defenses. In this episode, Dr. Kara Wada welcomes the brilliant Dr. Vivian Asamoah, a board-certified gastroenterologist specializing in functional medicine, to discuss the powerful connection between the gut and the immune system. Together, they talk about the science b...

Aug 14, 202440 min

Episode 121: Dysautonomia Explained: POTS, Diagnosis, & Treatment with Lauren Stiles

Have you ever felt like your body was working against you? Like your heart was racing, your brain was foggy, and you just couldn't seem to catch your breath? In this episode, Dr. Kara Wada welcomes back her friend and guest, Lauren Stiles, JD, President of Dysautonomia International and a research assistant professor of neurology at Stony Brook University School of Medicine. Lauren shares her personal journey with POTS, a form of dysautonomia, and discusses the challenges of diagnosis and treatm...

Jul 31, 202442 min

Episode 120: Thriving with Sjogren's: Nurturing Your Gut for Optimal Health with Cristina Montoya

Tired of your Sjogren's symptoms controlling your life, especially when it comes to gut issues? In this episode, Dr. Kara Wada continues her conversation with registered dietitian Cristina Montoya, who lives with both Sjogren's and rheumatoid arthritis. Together, they dive deep into actionable strategies for nourishing your gut and reclaiming your health when living with Sjogren's. Learn how the gut-Sjogren's connection goes beyond dryness, how to tailor your diet for optimal digestion, and life...

Jul 17, 202426 min

Episode 119: Beyond Dry Eyes: Unraveling the Gut-Sjogren's Connection with Cristina Montoya (Part 1)

Have you ever wondered how Sjogren's Disease affects your gut health? Join us as we delve into the gut-Sjogren's connection and discover practical strategies for managing both. In this episode of the Becoming Immune Confident Podcast, Dr. Kara Wada welcomes fellow Sjogie Cristina Montoya, a registered dietitian and the founder of Arthritis Dietitian, to discuss the intricate relationship between Sjogren's disease and gut health. Cristina shares her personal journey of living with Sjogren's and r...

Jul 03, 202415 min

Episode 118: The Chronic Boss Collective by Lilly Stairs - The Best Community You Never Wanted to Qualify For!

Are you a woman living with a chronic condition who wants to make a big impact in your career? In this inspiring episode of the Becoming Immune Confident Podcast, Dr. Kara Wada sits down with patient advocate and entrepreneur Lilly Stairs, who shares her empowering journey of living with multiple autoimmune diseases. Discover how Lily turned her diagnosis into a driving force for change, founding initiatives like the Chronic Boss Collective to uplift and connect women navigating chronic illness ...

Jun 19, 202428 min

Episode 117: Neurohacking Your Way to Freedom through Movement with Dr. Tiffany Tajiri

Are you ready to break free from the chronic stress program that's holding you back? Join Dr. Kara Wada as she chats with Dr. Tiffany Tajiri, a clinical psychologist, trauma recovery expert, and the creator of Freedom Rhythm, a unique emotion-focused movement program. In this episode, Dr. Kara and Dr. Tiffany explore the power of neurohacking to overcome chronic stress and unlock your full potential. Discover how Freedom Rhythm, a movement practice that uses silks to project emotions, can help y...

Jun 05, 202436 min

Episode 116: Cooking with Foraged Food: How to Find Ingredients In The Wild with Chef Lorenzo Tavani

How can we re-connect with nature and improve our health through foraging? In this episode, Dr. Kara Wada sits down with Chef Lorenzo Tavani, a forager, gardener, video creator, and all-around health nut. Lorenzo shares his journey from working in restaurants to becoming a passionate advocate for regenerative agriculture and local food systems. He discusses the importance of foraging, not only for its nutritional benefits but also for its connection to our human history and our well-being. Loren...

May 22, 202434 min

Episode 115: Be Careful How You Think: The Power of Mind-Body Medicine with Kim D'Eramo, D.O..

What if one of the keys to healing from chronic illness and accessing your highest potential for vitality lies within your own mind and body connection? In this episode of the Becoming Immune Confident Podcast, Dr. Kara Wada welcomes back Dr. Kim D'Eramo, a physician, bestselling author, and founder of the American Institute of MindBody Medicine. Dr. Kim shares her incredible personal journey of healing from severe anxiety and autoimmune disorder through the power of mind-body medicine after con...

May 08, 202443 min

Episode 114: Science Behind Nutrition & Immunity (BIC Podcast Series Episode 4)

Are you struggling with inflammation-related health issues, feeling fatigued, or looking for a science-backed, expert-led approach to an anti-inflammatory lifestyle? In this episode, Dr. Kara Wada and Jenifer Tharani explore the scientific connection between nutrition and immune function. They share insights from recent research and their experiences working with clients, highlighting practical strategies to optimize gut health, reduce inflammation, and improve overall well-being. Additionally, ...

Apr 17, 202432 min

Episode 113: Anti-Inflammatory Meal Planning Made Easy (BIC Podcast Series Episode 3)

Are you struggling to find a way to eat that reduces inflammation, while still feeling satisfied and enjoying yourself? In this episode, join board-certified allergist-immunologist, Dr. Kara Wada, and autoimmune dietician, Jenifer Tharani, as they dig into the science and art of anti-inflammatory meal planning. Through easy-to-follow tips and tricks, they'll show you how to incorporate foods that naturally combat inflammation into your everyday diet without sacrificing taste or convenience. You'...

Apr 10, 202427 min

Episode 112: The Importance of Food & Symptom Tracking (BIC Podcast Series Episode 2)

Are you struggling to identify which foods might be causing inflammation or other symptoms? In this second episode of the 4-part Becoming Immune Confident mini-series, Dr. Kara Wada and Jenifer Tharani, the Autoimmune Dietitian, dive deep into the importance of food and symptom tracking. They discuss how keeping a detailed journal can help uncover hidden food triggers, provide awareness into your body's responses, and guide you toward an anti-inflammatory lifestyle. Discover why tracking isn't a...

Apr 03, 202427 min

Episode 111: How Kara Turned from Patient to Doctor, then Immune Confident & How Jen Became the Autoimmune Nutritionist (BIC Podcast Series Episode 1)

Are you struggling with an autoimmune condition, lost and unsure of how to regain control over your health? In this episode, Dr. Kara Wada, a physician, and autoimmune patient, and Jenifer Tharani, an autoimmune nutritionist, candidly discuss their personal journeys toward regaining control over their health. Kara unveils her transformative path from feeling overwhelmed as a doctor-patient to embracing immune confidence, while Jenifer shares her compelling story of discovering her calling in aut...

Mar 27, 202422 min

Episode 110: Beyond the Call of Duty of a Living Organ Donor - Lindsay Gutierrez's Mission

What inspires someone to donate an organ, then do it again? Meet Lindsay Gutierrez, a veteran, advocate, and incredible woman who turned selflessness into her life's mission. In this episode of the Becoming Immune Confident Podcast, Dr. Kara welcomes Lindsay Gutierrez, a veteran, social advocate, and living organ donor, to share her remarkable journey. From her early ambitions in special effects makeup to finding her purpose through service in the Air Force and beyond, Lindsay's story is one of ...

Mar 13, 202431 min

Episode 109: Hypermobility, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, and Beyond - Health Connections You Need to Know with Dr. Linda Bluestein

Are you double-jointed, incredibly flexible, or experience joint pain differently from others? Explore the world of joint hypermobility and discover why your body might work this way. On the Becoming Immune Confident Podcast, Dr. Kara Wada welcomes Dr. Linda Bluestein, an integrative pain medicine expert specializing in hypermobility disorders. Dr. Bluestein's journey from ballet dancer to medical professional gives her a unique perspective on hypermobility. Learn about the different types of hy...

Mar 06, 202437 min

Episode 108: 5 Essential Tips From a Patient-Doctor if You Suspect You Have an Autoimmune Diagnosis

Are you struggling with mysterious symptoms and suspect an autoimmune condition? Get essential tips to find answers and feel better. Dr. Kara Wada, an allergy/immunology physician and autoimmune patient herself, shares strategies to cope with the uncertainty of a potential autoimmune diagnosis. Discover ways to track symptoms, find qualified specialists, research responsibly, build self-care habits, and develop confidence for your health journey. Listen to this week's episode and take charge of ...

Feb 28, 202430 min

Episode 107: The Veggies Over Pills Approach: How a Burnt-Out Pediatrician Rediscovered Wellness with Dr. Noemi Adame

Does your work or your family's busy schedules keep you from practicing the lifestyle changes you know will support your health? In this episode of the Becoming Immune Confident podcast, Dr. Kara Wada welcomes the Veggies Over Pills doctor, Dr. Noemi Adame. Dr. Adame is a passionate advocate for lifestyle medicine and a whole food plant-based approach to wellness. She shares her personal journey from burnout to rediscovering her passion for medicine and how she helps her patients create a health...

Feb 21, 202435 min

Episode 106: Which personalized Allergy Treatment is right for you?

Do you suffer from allergies and feel overwhelmed by the myriad of treatments available? Are you seeking a tailored approach to manage your itchy, watery eyes, runny nose, or frequent sinus infections? In this episode of the Becoming Immune Confident podcast, Dr. Kara Wada, a board-certified expert in pediatric and adult allergy, immunology, and lifestyle medicine, dives deep into the world of Personalized Allergy Treatments. Dr. Wada, an autoimmune patient herself, shares her extensive knowledg...

Feb 14, 202422 min

Episode 105: From White Coat to Hospital Bed: A Doctor's Journey Through Multiple Sclerosis!

What does it take for a doctor to tackle the complexities of medicine, motherhood, and a Multiple Sclerosis diagnosis, all while striving to live her best life? In this episode of the Becoming Immune Confident podcast, host Dr. Kara Wada sits down with Dr. Lisa Doggett, a family physician, writer, and MS patient. They talked about Dr. Doggett's personal journey from physician to patient following her MS diagnosis, the challenges and breakthroughs in MS treatment, the crucial role of lifestyle ch...

Feb 07, 202430 min

Episode 104: A Physician's Guide to Mastering Sleep & Behavior Change

What does it really mean to “be healthy”? In this episode, join Dr. Kara Wada as she welcomes Dr. Kenneth Zweig, a specialist in sleep disorders, hypertension, and behavior change. They talked about the intricacies of primary care, the crucial role of sleep in overall health, practical tips for enhancing sleep quality, and the art of making lasting behavior changes. Plus, get insights into the unique aspects of concierge medicine. Listen to this latest episode for insights on how small changes i...

Jan 31, 202435 min

Episode 103: How To Harness Healing From Our Habits: Using Lifestyle As Medicine

Are you overwhelmed by the demands of living a healthy lifestyle? Wondering if it's even possible to reclaim control over your health and nurture your body and mind? In this episode of the Becoming Immune Confident Podcast, host Dr. Kara Wada, a seasoned expert in both pediatric and adult allergy immunology and lifestyle medicine, takes us on a journey through the transformative power of lifestyle as medicine. As an autoimmune patient herself, Dr. Wada shares her personal insights and profession...

Jan 24, 202444 min

Episode 102: Battling Misconceptions: Deep Dive into Food Allergies

Are you ready to debunk common myths about allergies and dive into the evolving world of allergy and immunology? In this episode of the "Becoming Immune Confident" podcast, host Dr. Kara Wada hosts her mentor and colleague, Dr. David Stukus. Dr. Stukus discusses his career journey in allergy and immunology, highlighting the importance of countering health misinformation. He provides an in-depth insight into allergies, the different reactions they can cause, and how they differ from intolerances....

Jan 17, 202433 min

Episode 101: A Conversation on Immune Health and Food with Kim Shapira M.S., R.D.

Ready to spice up your immune health knowledge with a pinch of expert advice and a dash of dietary wisdom? In this episode of the Becoming Immune Confident Podcast, host Dr. Kara Wada, an allergy immunology and lifestyle medicine physician, welcomes back dietitian and nutrition expert Kim Shapira. They explore the controversial world of diet culture, the importance of reframing our outlook on nourishment, and share valuable insights on meal management and strategies for maintaining body health. ...

Jan 10, 202434 min

Episode 100: Immune Confidence Tips for 2024

Are you ready to become the hero of your own health and wellness story in 2024? In this milestone 100th episode, Dr. Kara Wada, a board-certified allergy, immunology, and lifestyle medicine physician, and autoimmune patient, shares her journey and insights for becoming immune confident in 2024. With a focus on authenticity and evolution, Dr. Wada discusses rebranding her approach to health, the importance of lifestyle changes, and offers practical tips for improving immune health. This episode i...

Jan 03, 202428 min

Episode 99: 5 things I would never do as an allergy and immune system expert

Curious to take a peek inside my brain? Discover the five things a seasoned allergy and immune system expert would never do. Join Dr. Kara Wada in this 99thepisode of the Becoming Immune Confident Podcast as she celebrates the 99th episode milestone. Dr. Wada, a board-certified allergy, immunology, and lifestyle medicine expert, delves into 5 things she would never do as an allergy and immune system expert, offering valuable insights drawn from her dual perspective as a physician and a systemic ...

Dec 20, 202335 min

Episode 98: Unabridged Perspectives: A Journey of Healing & Rheumatology

How can a life-threatening illness transform a physician's approach to medicine and patient care? In this episode of the Becoming Immune Confident Podcast, we're honored to have Dr. Isabelle Amigues, a passionate rheumatologist with a profound personal and professional story. Dr. Amigues shares her journey from practicing in France to moving to New York, her battle with stage four cancer, and how these experiences reshaped her perspective on patient care. She discusses the importance of seeing p...

Dec 13, 202345 min
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