SummaryIn this conversation, Dr. Melissa Coats shares her journey into naturopathic medicine, emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach to oncology. She discusses the emotional and physical challenges faced by cancer patients and the significance of resilience in treatment. Dr. Coats highlights thepersonalized care philosophy of her practice, focusing on empowering patients and addressing misconceptions about cancer treatment. The discussion also touches on the evolving nature of patient care and the need for open conversations about treatment choices. In this conversation, Melissa Coats, ND, FABNO, discusses the complexities of cancer treatment, emphasizing the importance of integrative approaches that combine conventional and naturopathic medicine. She highlights the role of fear in patient care, the necessity ofbuilding strong relationships with oncologists, and the scientific basis of naturopathic modalities and treatments. Dr. Coats also shares insights on networking and mentorshipin oncology, the importance of collaboration among healthcare providers, and the evolving nature of medicine as a blend of art and science.About Dr. CoatsDr. Coats graduated from Randolph-Macon Woman’s College in Lynchburg, Virginia, with a bachelor’s degree in biology; she then went on to achieve her Masters in bioethics from Midwestern University in Glendale, Arizona. Subsequently, Dr.Coats earned her Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (ND) at Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine (SCNM) in Tempe, Arizona. She is a board-certified naturopathic oncologist and is known as a fellow of the board of naturopathic oncology (FABNO) which puts her in a unique group of physicians whom specialize in naturopathic oncology. She is a past President of the SCNM Alumni Association and past Board Development Chair of Tempe Boys and Girls Club. She was recently appointed to the board of A2ndAct which celebrates and supports women survivors of ALL cancers who are using their newly realized gifts of life and experience to give back for the greater good. She is a member of the Arizona Naturopathic Medical Association, American Association of NaturopathicPhysicians and the Oncology Association of Naturopathic Physicians. In 2017, 2019 2020, 2021, and 2025 she was named one of Phoenix Magazine’s Top Doctors for Naturopathic Medicine. Dr. Coats offers general naturopathic medical careand focuses much of her time in oncology and natural options for mental health support. Dr. Coats practices with a broad scope of treatment options from acupuncture to clinical nutrition to help you achieve optimal health.Contact Dr. [email protected]: @naturopathicspecialistsllc https://www.facebook.com/melissacoatsndhttps://listenandcare.com/

In this conversation, Dr. Alicia Hart shares herjourney into naturopathic medicine, detailing her early experiences with health issues and her diverse career path that included music and zookeeping. She discusses her transition from primary care to a focus on mental health, emphasizing the importance of accessibility in healthcare and the integrationof herbal medicine. Dr. Hart highlights the significance of building relationships with both patients and plants, advocating for a more evidence-based approach to treatment. In this conversation, Dr. Alicia Hart and Christie Wylde discuss the complexities of navigating medical education, theimportance of collaboration and support networks, and the challenges faced by non-traditional students, particularly those who are parents. They explore the role of medical interventions in naturopathic care, address issues of eugenicsand ableism in medicine, and emphasize the need for advocacy and community engagement to improve healthcare outcomes.About Dr. HartDr. Hart grew up in Oregon, and decided at age 10 that shecould do a better job in healthcare than the care she witnessed in the Kaiser system. While she took a few detours into music and zookeeping, she obtained her bachelors in biology at St. Martin's University in 2010, then her doctorate in natural medicine at the National College of Natural Medicine in 2015, then a 3 year residency through Southwest Family Physicians. In fall of 2024, she started a mental health private practice to focus on neurodivergence and support for children, teens, and adults. When she isn't teaching about mental health or in clinic, she enjoys reading science fiction, playing video games, and hiking with her kids and husband.Contact Dr. [email protected]: clockworkbotanicals and draliciahartbluesky: descant.bsky.social patreon: patreon.com/ClockworkBotanicalsIntegrativeMentalHealth www.clockworkbotanicals.com

In this conversation, Dr. Leslie Solomonian and host Christie Wylde explore the intersections of naturopathic medicine, social justice, and the importance of curiosity and healthy skepticism in healthcare. They discuss the challenges of evidence-based medicine, the impact of social determinants on health, and the need for compassion in patient care. Theconversation also touches on the appropriation of indigenous knowledge, the economic pressures influencing healthcare decisions, and the importance of rest in healing. Dr. Solomonian emphasizes the responsibility that comes with privilege and the need for a more inclusive approach to healthcare education. In this conversation, Christie Wylde and Leslie explore the complexities of naturopathic medicine, its historical context, and the need for a collectivereflection on its principles. They discuss the importance of interprofessional collaboration, the role of Indigenous voices in truth-telling, and the necessity of bravery in challenging institutional norms. The dialogue emphasizes the need for cultural humility, a common ethos in education, and thepursuit of justice within the profession. Ultimately, they call for actionable steps to empower learners and practitioners to advocate for health justice and to ensure that the principles of naturopathic medicine are upheld in practice.About Dr.  SolomonianLeslie Solomonian (she/her) is a doctor of naturopathicmedicine and professor at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine. She is a long-time advocate for environmental and social causes. She co-foundedNaturopathic Doctors for Environmental and Social Trust in order to support the naturopathic profession in taking action for these critically important determinants of health. She holds a Masters degree in Public Health in family and community medicine with a specialization in community development. Leslie is committed to working to elevate the capacity of the naturopathic profession to agitate for Planetary Health and ecological justice. Leslie is the author of the textbook Naturopathic and Integrative Pediatrics, and All They Really Need, a book for caregivers on strategies to cultivate both child and planetary health. Promoting the health of the planet and all who share it is critical for promoting the health of the next generation.Contact Dr. [email protected]: lsolomonianndwww.lesliesolomonian.weebly.com#NaturopathicMedicine #EnvironmentalJustice #SocialDeterminantsofHealth #Evidence-BasedMedicine #Privilege #TraditionalKnowledge #COVID-19 #biomedicalmodel #interprofessionalcollaboration #indigenousvoices #advocacy #culturalhumility #healthjustice #education #principles

In this episode of By the Roots podcast, host Christie Wylde is joined by Dr. Jenny Bennett, an autoimmune specialist, to explore the complexities of autoimmune diseases and the role of naturopathic medicine in their treatment. Dr. Bennett discusses the multifaceted nature of autoimmune conditions, emphasizing the importance of understanding both genetic and environmental triggers. She outlines five main areas that can influence autoimmune responses, including diet, microbiome, infections, hormones, and environmental factors. The conversation also delves into the challenges patientsface in navigating their health journeys, the potential for remission, and the importance of a collaborative approach to care. In this conversation, Dr. Jenny Bennett shares her journey from a new doctor facing personal challenges to a seasoned practitioner who emphasizes the importance of curiosity over ego in patient care. She discusses the emotional toll of medical practice, the limitations of conventional training, and the need for community and mentorship in the medical field. Dr. Bennett also highlights the significance of whole person care and the challenges posed by algorithmic approaches in functionalmedicine. About Dr. BennettDr. Jenny Bennett(Dr. Jenny Berg) is a naturopathic doctor, acupuncturist and founder of Aria Integrative Medicine. She received her Doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine and Masters of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine from Bastyr University in Seattle, Washington. Prior to medical school, she received her BS in Pharmacological Chemistry from the University of California, San Diego.Dr. Bennett utilizes treatments from both Eastern and Western medical practices to find the best approach for treating all diseases. She recognizes that every person expresses conditions differently, therefore each person needs to have an individualized treatment plan for that condition. Her extensive knowledge in conventional and alternative medicine allows her to provide the best possible care for her patients.Dr. Bennett’s special interests include treating a wide variety of conditions associated with autoimmune disorders such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, Graves’ Disease, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, lupus, scleroderma, Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis. Since having been diagnosed with thyroid cancer in 2013, she has a deep appreciation for the effect that thyroid conditions have on people, and has developed sincere compassion for those living with lifelong chronic conditions.When she is not busy seeing patients at Aria Integrative Medicine, she enjoys spending time with her partner, sonand crazy dog, exploring all the pacific northwest has to offer. She also teaches Rheumatology at Bastyr University is on the Board of Directors for the Gastroenterology Association of Naturopathic Physicians (GastroANP) and has participated on the Board of Directors for the Autoimmune AdvocacyAlliance.Contact:[email protected]://www.ariaintegrative.comIG: @ariaintegrativeTikTok: @drjennybennett#autoimmunediseases #naturopathicmedicine #rheumatology #patientcare #hormones #environmentaltriggers #remission #holistichealth #mentorship #integrativemedicine #autoimmunediseases #medicalpractice #mentorship #patientcare #curiosity #ego #functionalmedicine #wholepersoncare #medicaltraining #communitysupport

SummaryIn this conversation, Dr. Kathryn Kloos (she/her) discussesher work as a naturopathic physician specializing in women's health, particularly pelvic floor therapy. She shares her journey into this field, the importance of addressing both physical and emotional aspects of women's health, and the integration of psychedelic therapies in her practice. The conversation highlights the significance of understanding and treating sexual trauma, the emotional impacts of childbirth, and the need for holistic approaches in women's healthcare. Additionally, Dr. Kloos shares her extensive experience inhealing through ceremony, plant medicines (including ayahuasca and psilocybin), and body-based therapies. She discusses the importance of self-awareness and self-work in the healing process, particularly for practitioners in the fieldwith Kloos emphasizing the importance of training for practitioners to effectively hold space for their patients' healing journeys.Meet Dr. KloosDr. Kathryn Kloos is a board certified Naturopathic primarycare physician, herbalist and licensed massage therapist. She graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science at Bastyr University’s first ever Herbal Science degree in 2003. As a licensed massage therapist, she has many years of experience intreating musculoskeletal conditions using myofascial massage, deep tissue and intuitive energy work. Her deep reverence for nature and sincere desire to learnherbal medicine led her to South America where she spent 6 months experiencing the traditional healing practices of Chilean indigenous healers and Amazonianfolk healers. Witnessing the extraordinary healing power of nature inspired her to pursue further training as a naturopathic physician. She graduated from the National College of Naturopathic Medicine in Portland, Oregon with specialinterests in physical medicine, women’s health and pediatrics. Her practice focuses on strengthening overall health through nutrition, herbal medicine, homeopathy, massage/bodywork, Holistic Pelvic Care™ and lifestyle counseling.#womenshealth #pelvicfloortherapy #naturopathicmedicine #emotionalhealing #sexualtrauma #integrativehealth #psychedelic therapy #reproductivehealth #somaticdialogue #holisticcare #healing #plantmedicines #trauma #ketamine #therapy #psilocybin #pelvicfloortherapy #selfwork #mindfulness #holistichealth #woundedhealer

Summary: In this conversation, Dr. Sunita Iyer (she/her) shares her journey as a midwife and naturopathic physician, discussing the concept of the ''town doctor'' and the deep relationships formed with patients throughout their life stages. She reflects on her transition from a busy clinical practice to a more balanced approach, emphasizing the importance of self-care and community. Dr. Ayer also addresses the challenges of growth in her practice, the feelings of disconnection during her busiest times, and the process of letting go of her previous role to embrace new opportunities in teaching and personal development. In this conversation, Sunita Iyer discusses her transition from clinical care to teaching, emphasizing the importance of individualized care and the need for self-care among practitioners. She highlights the significance of sleep and rest in maintaining health and well-being, and the necessity of pausing to reflect on one's practice. Sunita also shares her approach to building a sustainable practice model that prioritizes connection with patients and offers a membership-based service.   About Dr. Iyer: As a midwife and a naturopathic physician, I have always enjoyed a bit of the ‘town doctor’ life. Working with families to get healthy, have babies, parent, and grow older is just a snippet of what my practice entailed over the years. I am captivated by Transitions and Transformations: Birth. Postpartum. Adolescence. Menopause. Aging. Retirement. Loss. My role is to sit by the patient as a guide, educator, and resource through all of it. Contact Dr. Iyer: [email protected] IG: @doctorsunitaiyer https://drsunita.blog #midwifery #naturopathicmedicine #healthcaretransitions #community care #personal growth #professional development #burnout #teaching #practicemanagement #holistic health #naturopathic medicine #individualized care #self-care #sleep #teaching #sustainablepractice #coaching #patientconnection #health #wellness

In this episode of 'By the Roots', host Christie Wylde engages with Dr. Sarah Preston Hessler and Dr. Sean Hessler, a married couple and accomplished naturopathic physicians. They discuss their journey into regenerative medicine, the importance of empowering future practitioners, andthe holistic approach to patient care. The conversation delves into the specifics of perineural injection therapy and the broader philosophy of regenerative medicine, emphasizing the need to consider the whole person in treatment.In this conversation, Sarah and Sean discuss the influence of family narratives on health perceptions, the integration of conventional and naturopathic medicine, and the importance of collaboration in healthcare. They emphasize theneed for building bridges between different medical professions to enhance patient care and the future of medicine. The couple also shares insights on maintaining their personal and professional relationship while navigating the challenges of their careers in naturopathic medicine.Sarah Preston Hesler, NMD is an award winning expert in theregenerative medicine field, is an author, business owner, humanitarian and internationally recognized trainer, instructor and speaker. She has helped tens of thousands of patients to lead healthier, happier lives and has trained thousands of students to provide practical, real-world tools they can use tohelp their patients. She is a co-founder of the charity Naturopaths Without Borders where she served as the Director of Operations for over 10 years, and has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars to provide integrative care to underserved populations in the US, Mexico, Haiti, Thailand and India. She isthe co-owner of Phoenix Natural Family Medicine in Chandler, AZ, having received her medical degree from the Sonoran University of Health Sciences (formerly Southwest College ofNaturopathic Medicine). She is also on faculty at AT Still University and is a co-founder and trainer with the Naturopathic Mastery Courses. She was the 2011 co-recipient of the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine Alumni Award for Community Service, the 2018 co-recipient of the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians’ President’s Award and the 2019 Impact LIVES’ Abundance Award Recipient. Her life mission is to help 100 million people to heal mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually. Dr. Preston Hesler loves to listen to music, play the piano, sing, travel to new and exciting places, read, cook, practice meditation, exercise and spend time with her family. She and her husband have two well-loved dogs.Dr. Sean Hesler, ND is the Executive Director of NaturopathsWithout Borders and a naturopathic physician practicing in Arizona. After receiving his medical training from Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine, he moved to Haiti and co-founded the MamaBaby Haiti birth center in 2010alongside his wife Dr. Sarah Preston Hesler. In addition to sharing lessons on global health at universities and conferences around the United States, Dr. Sean also teaches medical students and professionals through the NaturopathicMastery series of seminars and at NWB’s sites in Haiti, Mexico, Thailand, and Phoenix. He has received the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine Community Service Award, American Association of Naturopathic Medicine President's Award and Impact Lives Community Leader of the Year. Currently Dr.Sean is Adjunct Faculty in the department of Physician Assistant Studies at A.T. Still University, a street medic with Phoenix Urban Health Collective, co-founder of Naturopathic Alliance and formerly the Director of Community Health and Assistant Professor of Nutrition at SCNM.Contact the DocsInstagram:@dr.seanx, @dr.sarahprestonhesler@phxnfm @naturopathicmastery, @nwb_globalWebsite: www.phxnfm.comEmail: [email protected]@gmail.com#regenerative medicine #naturopathic medicine #pain management

In this episode of By the Roots, host Christie Wylde interviews Dr. Cheryl Burdette, an accomplished naturopathic doctor and director of education at Progressive Medical Center. They discuss the integration of naturopathic medicine within conventional healthcare, particularly in oncology, and the importance of residency programs in establishing credibility for naturopathic practitioners. Dr. Burdette shares her experiences in residency, the challenges and benefits of interdisciplinary collaboration, and offers insights for other creators and directors of residency programs, as well as those applying for residency positions. The conversation emphasizes the need for networking and support within the profession to enhance patient care and professional development. About Dr. Burdette, she/her Dr. Cheryl Burdette is Director of Education at Progressive Medical Center which is one of the largest integrative clinics in the Southeast.  She is the co-founder of Precision Point Diagnostics, a laboratory that focuses on gut-based health and wellness.  There she designs clinical profiles and trains clinicians on their utilization. She has a rich history in the integrative medicine laboratory space.  She designed and teaches the clinical curriculum for Origins Incubator, a practice management group, that has helped to launch many successful practitioners. She is the Educational Director and on the board of advisors for Xymogen, a physician line pharmaceutical and is on the board of advisors for  TheraDura Diagnostik, a German based lab company. She serves on IRB boards, is involved in study design and translational research, and has lectured extensively worldwide. She directs an accredited Naturopathic residency at Progressive. Her passion is teaching about the practice of Integrative and Naturopathic Medicine, to increase awareness of evidenced-based natural therapies, to both rule-in and rule-out tools that are effective in patient care.   Contact Cheryl: [email protected] Progressive Medical Center: https://www.progressivemedicalcenter.com/

In this conversation, Dr. Arlie Millard, a naturopathic doctor and LGBTQIA+ wellness expert, shares her insights on creating inclusive healthcare practices. She discusses her personal experiences with misgendering during treatment and emphasizes the importance of understanding both the practitioner and patient perspectives. Dr. Millard advocates for cultural humility over cultural competency, encouraging practitioners to listen and learn from their patients' experiences. She provides practical steps for healthcare providers to improve inclusivity and highlights the ongoing journey of learning and adapting in the field of healthcare. Takeaways o  The dual perspective of clinician and patient enhances understanding. o  Misgendering can significantly impact patient comfort and care. o  Practitioners should not place the burden of inclusivity on patients. o  Cultural humility is essential in understanding diverse identities. o  Practitioners need to practice inclusive language and approaches. o  Fear of making mistakes should not prevent practitioners from trying. o  Inclusivity in healthcare is a continuous learning process. o  Patients deserve to see practitioners who understand their identities. o  Listening to patients enhances the therapeutic relationship. o  Resources and training are available to support practitioners in inclusivity. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Arlie Millard and Her Work 02:04 Personal Experiences with Misgendering in Healthcare 12:46 The Role of Practitioners in LGBTQIA+ Inclusivity 20:19 Cultural Humility vs. Cultural Competency 26:22 Overcoming the Fear of Missteps in Inclusivity 46:17 Practical Steps for Practitioners to Improve Inclusivity About Dr. Millyard, she/her Dr. Arlie Millyard (she/her) is a naturopathic doctor, LGBTQ2SIA+ wellness expert, and co-founder of Heal All Consulting. Arlie helps health and wellness practitioners build more inclusive practices, so they can impact more lives. With over 12 years of lived, research, and clinical experience, Arlie brings a deep understanding of both the practitioner’s and the patient’s perspective to the table, promoting clearer communication, increased trust, and better clinical outcomes for LGBTQ2SIA+ patients and their providers. Arlie is loved for her use of relatable storytelling to help practitioners become inclusive and affirming healers through her social media, workshops, and online courses. Contact: [email protected] https://healallconsulting.ca/ IG, Facebook: @healallconsulting   Resources noted in today’s show: What Doctors Say, What Patients Hear by Danielle Ofri, MD Gilbert C, Millyard A. Putting Risk Factors in Context: an Anti-Oppression Approach. CANDJ [Internet]. 2021 Jun. 8 [cited 2025 Jan. 3];28(1):25-31. Available from: https://candjournal.ca/index.php/candj/article/view/17 FREE checklist: https://healallconsulting.ca/checklist  

In this first episode of the inaugural season of By The Roots, the podcast, we meet our host, Christie Wylde. She talks about the process that led her to create BTR, as well as a delightful preview of Season One. Please make sure to follow us on Instagram at bytheroots.thepodcast. Like this episode, follow the podcast, leave a review or share with a colleague. Help us grow and expand our community of resources. If you're interested in being a guest or suggesting some you respect and admire, the link for the form for nomination is in our bio on IG.