Sickboy

If laughter really was the best medicine, Gavin Crawford would have cured his mother of Alzheimer’s disease. As a son, his mother’s dementia has been devastating. As a comedian though… It’s been sort of funny. Honestly, how do you respond when your mom confuses you with her teenage crush and wants you to take her to the high-school dance? Well, you laugh. Because it’s the only thing you can do. This week the fellas are joined by Gavin as they chat about his new CBC podcast Let's Not Be Kidding. They cover the hardships of dealing with dementia, the stages of grief, the humour that exists in the experience and more. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

May is NF (Neurofibromatosis) Awareness Month! In this episode, we chat with Kevin MacDonald, a man who has faced more medical challenges than the entire cast of Grey's Anatomy combined. He's got esophageal atresia, a hole in the heart, and NF2 — and no, that's not a fancy new Netflix series. We're talking about Neurofibromatosis type 2, which causes brain and spinal tumours, deafness, paralysis, and loss of vision. But don't worry folks! Kevin's not here to bring us down — he's got a great sense of humour. He'll share stories about pretending to understand what people are saying when they yell at him (because apparently, that's the solution to hearing loss?), talking to mannequins at clothing stores, and accidentally putting his foot in his mouth — though to be fair, that's probably the only body part that isn't causing him any trouble. And if that's not enough, he'll even show us his impressive new talent: controlling the left side of his face with his tongue. Get your head out of the gutter. Tune in for some laughs and inspiration as Kevin shows us that even in the toughest of times, humour can be a powerful tool for healing and resilience. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

Get ready to pick your nose and "lose your marbles"! (AI's words, not ours). In this episode, the fellas explore the shocking link between nose-picking and Alzheimer's disease. Apparently, those little booger beasts could be providing bacteria with a straight shot to your brain, increasing your risk of developing dementia. Emotional cue cards are helpful for those with autism but in reality the boys question why emotional education isn't at the forefront of education for youth in general!? A new bionic arm will make wielding a knife way more deadly than any time before. Your phone and laptop screen are going to dry your eyes out so badly that they'll be mishapen and you'll need glasses for sure. But on the bright side, filling your eye holes with fetal urine may be the cure! Well, not according to the FDA of course. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

This week the fellas are joined by David, an author, public speaker, and endurance athlete who shares his inspiring mission to foster meaningful human connections through storytelling. He dives into his latest book, Cycle of Lives, which details the emotional journeys of 15 people who have overcome trauma, specifically cancer. David shares how the death of his sister from cancer motivated him to create a platform where people can discuss the emotional impact of cancer. The guys explore why David chose to present 15 different stories and whether there were any common themes among the participants. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

This week the fellas chat with the fierce and fabulous Beth Ciavaglia, a physiotherapist turned long-term care administrator, who shares her story of being diagnosed with grade 3, stage 3 breast cancer just two weeks before her 40th birthday. Beth talks about the importance of patients having a voice in healthcare and how her experience with cancer opened her eyes to this need. She dives into the science behind breast density and its correlation with breast cancer, and Beth stresses the importance of asking about breast density after a mammogram. She also reminds us that cancer is never truly over, as patients may still be left with musculoskeletal impairment and psychological trauma even when there is no evidence of disease. Her experience has shown her that patients often know more than healthcare professionals in many ways. She also highlights the importance of research as care and how she has chosen to contribute by being a partner in research. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

Have you ever wanted to be a nurse but were too scared to handle the pressure of real-life clinical practice? Well, fear not, because new research suggests that virtual reality (VR) training could be the answer to your fears! Speaking of fears - The Bizarre Life Cycle of a Female Adactylidium is something straight out of a horror movie. We're not clowning around here, folks! A new study has revealed that uncertainty of harmful intent, media influences, and unpredictability of behaviour are the key factors behind this fear. Who knew that a red nose and big shoes could be so scary? Keeping the fears going the fellas then dive into the gruesome details of the calamitous eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE, which completely obliterated nearby Roman towns and turned their inhabitants into eerie, preserved specimens. Scientists have now discovered new evidence of a cloud of hot gas that essentially vaporized countless victims and turned their brains to glass. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

In this episode, Bri and Jer speak with Michael Weber, a Texas police officer with 38 years of experience, including 15 years as a Crimes Against Children Detective and Investigator. Michael is a national expert on Medical Child Abuse, commonly known as Munchausen by Proxy, and a member of the American Professional Society on the Abuse of Children's (APSAC) Committee on Munchausen by Proxy. They discuss how a caregiver can get an unneeded surgery performed on a child just by lying about their medical history. Michael shares insights into the prevalence of this abuse and dispels false narratives about it that are often perpetuated in the media. He also highlights legislative efforts in Texas to pass a law specific to this abuse. Michael's experience investigating over 50 reports of Medical Child Abuse and his unique "how-to" training for CPS, law enforcement, prosecutors, make for a fascinating conversation on a critical topic. Tune in to learn more about this form of child abuse and what can be done to prevent it. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

This week the fellas are joined by Hailey. They dive into a deep conversation about chronic illness and how it can shape one's identity. Hailey shares her experience with stage 3 HS, a disease so advanced that even healthcare professionals were left scratching their heads. For Hailey however she absolutely MUST NOT SCRATCH OR PICK FOR THE LOVE OF GOD! Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a painful, long-term skin condition that causes abscesses and scarring on the skin. The exact cause of hidradenitis suppurativa is unknown, but it occurs near hair follicles where there are sweat glands, usually around the groin, bottom, breasts and armpits. She also reveals the struggles of trying to manage a serious illness without proper healthcare in the U.S. Hailey is an absolute warrior and a champ who's bright and uplifting demeanour is infectious and we are grateful to have had this conversation with her.

Short Kings rise up. But first, researchers in Boston have created an AI tool called Sybil (not Sybian) that can predict whether a person will develop lung cancer in the next year with 86% to 94% accuracy. And the best part? It can detect early signs of lung cancer years before doctors would typically find it on a CT scan. Move over, Doc, Sybil's got this! A game of Monopoly in Brussels has turned into something out of a samurai movie. Two men landed in the hospital after a disagreement over noise levels, of all things. It seems that a group of Monopoly players were disturbing their neighbors, who then approached them with a katana sword. As you do. Naturally, things got heated, and before you knew it, the Monopoly players were embroiled in a sword fight. And in a mind-blowing scientific discovery, donor lungs last far longer if they are held in 10 degrees Celsius rather than 4 degrees Celsius. How we haven't figured this out sooner is beyond us. In another fascinating discovery: one study finds men (Dutch? Danish? Who knows.) will exaggerate when self-reporting masculinity-related traits, especially penis size. Tune in to hear two short kings and one tall guy chime in on the matter. Finally the history of "rough and tumble" fighting is BRUTAL and hella interesting. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

This week the fellas are joined by Sara (an NP) and Teale (PHD in International Studies) from AccessBC. They discuss the high cost of prescription contraception in British Columbia and how it impacts access for those who need it the most. They highlight the significant cost of different methods, including the intrauterine device, oral contraceptive pills, and hormone injections. Lucky for us, AccessBC promotes universal coverage for prescription contraception. The campaign believes that providing access to free contraception is not only the right thing to do for vulnerable populations, but it also reduces gender inequality, improves health outcomes for parents and children, and makes good fiscal sense. The good news is that the policy has been included in the 2023 provincial budget, and as of April 1, 2023, prescription contraception in BC will be free! Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

This week the fellas sit down with Jon Archambault. Jon shares his story of serving in the military for 11 years, including 5 in Special Forces, and then transitioning to a career in law enforcement. Unfortunately, Jon had to leave the uniform due to a diagnosis of CPTSD with dissociation and major depressive disorder. But Jon didn't let his mental health struggles define him. Instead, he wrote a book to break the stigma surrounding mental health injuries in the uniform and founded Wired Differently, an outdoor apparel company that encourages people to connect with nature and ground themselves. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

Green Shirt Day is upon us! Organ donation is important and Sickboy is here to spread the word. Who knew that getting busy between the sheets can lead to such tragic consequences? In this episode, the fellas discuss the latest estimates from WHO on congenital syphilis and how it's still causing over 200,000 stillbirths and neonatal deaths every year. Also, have you ever wondered why holes feel bigger with your tongue than they do with your finger? What kind of holes do you ask? You know exactly what kind of holes… Finally the boys wrap up this week with a lengthy discussion about navigating sex and consent with those who suffer from dementia. It’s a cloudy space and hopefully this is a topic that can be investigated further in the future with a professional. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

In this episode, Jer and Tay are joined by the delightful Brooke Manning, who's not just a poet, musician, and owner of the art space Likely General in Toronto, Canada. Nope, she's also a certified death doula! Brooke chats with the guys about all things death, from her Death Meditation Ceremonies (we promise it’s a lot more relaxing than it sounds) to the history of the funeral industry and how it turned death into a capitalist nightmare. But fear not! Brooke is here to bring death back to its roots and make it a more holistic, earth-forward experience. We also get into the nitty-gritty of grief - the good, the bad, and the ugly. Brooke reminds us that death can be beautiful and awakening and that bringing awareness to our impermanence can actually be enlivening. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

In this episode, the fellas are joined by the hilarious and inspiring mental health podcaster and advocate, Kyle Moore. Growing up in rural Atlantic Canada, Kyle learned the hard way that mental health stigma is alive and well, especially for young men. But after experiencing severe suicidal ideation and reaching out for help, he realized that sharing his story and experiences can be a powerful tool for healing. Kyle also shares his experience of competing on Big Brother Canada, where he had to handle his OCD and anxiety in an environment designed to cause stress and paranoia. And let's not forget the "villain edit" he got, leading to some intense online harassment, including death threats and attacks on his family and friends. But with his humor, genuine curiosity, and unending passion for understanding people's stories, Kyle has used his podcast to reduce stigma, spread awareness, and champion unheard voices in the world of mental health. So join us for a conversation that will make you laugh, inspire you, and remind you that no matter what life throws your way, you can always find a way to keep moving forward. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

The boys tackle the hilarious and often mortifying topic of the "middle-aged groan." You know the one — that strange noise you make when you bend over to pick something up, or stand up from a chair? Did you hear about the latest scientific discoveries from Beethoven's hair which has been preserved for almost 200 years? It turns out that Beethoven's chronic drinking, hepatitis B infection, and genetic risk for liver disease were likely the culprits behind his demise. Endo makes sex painful so someone made a product called an OhNut to help. It looks kinda fun! Total Recall is just around the corner — GET INTO THE CHOPPA... oh wait that's Predator. Finally, we go down a CRACKING good rabbit hole. RingDinger baby. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

This week the fellas have the pleasure of speaking with Sean Christie, MD, FRCSC, a renowned neurosurgeon and expert in making operating rooms more environmentally sustainable. Sean is a professor, vice chair, and director of research at the division of neurosurgery at Dalhousie University. Operating rooms are known to generate large amounts of waste and consume significant amounts of energy and resources. Sean shares with us his insights on the importance of creating more eco-conscious operating rooms and the benefits it can bring not only to the environment but also to patient care and hospital finances. Through his expertise and experience, Sean demonstrates how making operating rooms more eco-friendly can have a significant impact on reducing the healthcare industry's environmental footprint and promoting a healthier and more sustainable future for all. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

This week Jer and Bri sit down with Dan, a survivor of not just one, but two emergency brain surgeries. At the young age of 28, Dan's life took a drastic turn when he was handed a sealed envelope after a visit to the optometrist and told to go directly to the hospital. The cause of his persistent headaches turned out to be a brain hemorrhage, and Dan was faced with a long and challenging road to recovery. Through grit, perseverance, and resilience, Dan relearned everything he once knew, from how to walk to how to smile. He spent weeks in a coma and months in a rehab hospital, but he never gave up on his journey to rebuild his life. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

"Sorry kid, you're not sick enough for us anymore." This week the fellas discuss the Make-A-Wish Foundation's controversial decision to change their policy on cystic fibrosis. Apparently, medical advances have made it possible for these patients to live longer, which means they don't automatically qualify for a wish anymore. Also, did you know a year's worth of Trikafta could be made as cheap as $5700? Yet some poorer countries aren’t being given access to the drug and it’s killing young folks with CF as a result. Why are orcas killing sharks and removing their livers with surgical precision? Maybe Liver King was right, Liver is king. Get ready to yawn… seriously though, the guys probably yawned 8 times between them during the show. Finally for WHAT THE HELLTH!? Gym bros are eating dog food for gains. It’s disgusting. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

This week the fellas chat with Jon Jon Rivero, CEO & Founder of Qi Creative, a therapy practice that services children and schools of all abilities. Jon Jon is also an award-winning producer, director, and actor. We discuss his personal story of becoming an occupational therapist and how his upbringing influenced his approach to therapy. We also highlight the importance of honouring the background and culture of patients when engaging with them. Jon Jon shares his experience as a performing artist and how it relates to his work as a trauma specialist, and how it can be used in therapy sessions to help patients express themselves and process their emotions. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

This week Bri and Jer are joined by Amanda Vegter, a 4th-year veterinary student at Colorado State University who found out she had Stage II breast cancer during her studies. She shares how she discovered a lump but didn't get it checked out because she was "too busy" (I mean, hey… Vet school is busy). After travelling to Africa and contracting tick bite fever, Amanda decided to get it checked and was diagnosed. She goes into the effects of forced/early menopause and how they're often overlooked in breast cancer treatment. Amanda reveals how they were nearly as bad, if not worse than the cancer treatment itself, which no one warned her about. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

This week Jer introduces a new segment - DID YA KNOW?! Did you know Pepto Bismol makes your poop and tongue black? If you've experienced this, don't freak out - it's just because of the “bismuth” in Pepto. Just remember, Pepto Bismol may give you a dark side, but it also gives you fast and effective relief from your tummy troubles. Stay cool and let your stomach chill with Pepto Bismol! (This is not an ad). Some smart people created a bandage that's not just any bandage, but one that uses electrotherapy to heal wounds like a superhero on steroids. A Brantford woman is all sorts of F’ed up and will hopefully be serving some much-needed time behind bars for committing some of the most messed up stuff we’ve ever heard on the podcast. Also, why do men avoid the doctor? The fellas are sure it’s due to lots of reasons but hopefully, that will change! Finally, Jer shares how the dogs in Chernobyl are the goodest boys out there! Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

This week the guys sit down with Dr. Iris Gorfinkel, a well-respected family physician and clinical researcher. With over 15 years of experience in participating in clinical trials, Dr. Gorfinkel shares her insights on the current state of primary care in Canada and the impact of a shortage of family doctors. She sheds light on the pressing issue of one in five Canadians lacking a family doctor, and the impact it has on patient care. Dr. Gorfinkel also discusses the challenges faced by family physicians in terms of administrative work, chronic care, and preventative care. She explains how a shift in focus towards acute care could benefit patients by keeping them out of emergency rooms and ensuring better health outcomes. Finally, Dr. Gorfinkel shares her thoughts on the path forward to free up family doctors' time and provide better access to primary care for the six million Canadians currently lacking a family doctor. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

Today, the fellas are joined by Madeline Tweel, who has rare Ovarian Teratoma-Related Paraneoplastic Neurological Syndrome. Don't worry if you can't pronounce that, Jeremie will do it for ya. Madeline was halfway through medical school when she became a very sick patient. She experienced meningitis, insane headaches, and even had to resort to self-catheterization. And get this, her grandparents gave her tips and tricks over lunch. I mean, who wouldn't want to learn how to self-catheterize over a coffee and a sandwich? Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

This week Jer and Bri take things to a whole other level of Gnar. Jeremie somehow experienced something medical that is not googleable. Spoiler alert it has to do with something lodged in his tear duct AKA the PUNCTUM! What happens to a broken bone that doesn't receive any medical intervention? The results are gag-inducing. The fellas discuss the dangerous reality of medical tourism in the United States - specifically the story of four unfortunate souls who took a trip to Mexico for some cosmetic surgery, only to end up in the crosshairs of some very confused gunmen. Talk about a vacation gone wrong! Are you in a long-distance relationship and missing the thrill of a passionate kiss? Look no further, because a group of university students in China have created a virtual kissing machine to help you out. It looks like a mouth fleshlight and honestly might make you re-think long-distance relationships after all. Finally in this week's edition of WHAT THE HELLTH?!!? Like some sort of Canadian Heritage Moment (I smell burnt toast) a woman had brain surgery and the docs had her play violin during the procedure to make sure they didn't bungle up her hand-eye coordination. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

This week the fellas chat with Andrea Dunlop to discuss Munchausen by Proxy (MBP), a condition that has been misunderstood and misrepresented in popular culture. Andrea, an expert in the field, sheds light on the complexities of MBP and helps us understand whether it is a mental illness or a crime. Andrea explains that MBP encompasses two separate things: Factitious Disorder Imposed on Another, which is the official DSM diagnosis, and Medical Child Abuse, which is a crime. The term is often misunderstood and misused, leading to confusion and misconceptions about the condition. One of the biggest questions surrounding MBP is how common it is. Andrea explains that despite its depiction as rare in popular culture, it is actually more common than we might think. She also outlines the warning signs of MBP, which can help people recognize the abuse in their communities, particularly parents and those who work with children. For a resource of warning signs of MBP check out this link provided by Andrea - https://www.munchausensupport.com/faq/ Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

This week the fellas chat with Jen Kish - the former captain of Canada's Olympic bronze medal-winning rugby sevens team and now a coach on Canada's Ultimate Challenge. Jen's got some wild stories to share about her days on the sevens circuit and how she used her lightning-fast skills and tenacious defence to leave opponents in the dust. But that's just the tip of the iceberg. The guys dive into heavy topics like Jen's bipolar diagnosis and how it impacted her personal relationships, as well as her commitment to donating her brain to further research on the effects of trauma on women's brains. Tune in while Jen Kish opens up about her life, mental health, and the importance of fitness as an outlet. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

Did you hear the latest relationship trend? Apparently, one in five couples are ditching the traditional shared bed and opting for separate bedrooms. According to a survey of 2,200 Americans, the reasons for this new trend include snoring, differing schedules, and general sleep disturbances caused by bed-sharing. I guess some people just can't handle the heat (or the snoring)! Sex therapists and marriage counsellors are raising their eyebrows at this trend, suggesting that it may signal deeper relationship issues or a lack of sexual desire. Could sleeping solo be a red flag that you're headed towards a sexless, loveless marriage?! In our cute content for the week a cat in Turkey was born with 4 ears and it's straight up #awww. Finally Jer hits us with a top 10 list of epic proportions. 10 wacky medical treatments that doctors actually used to believe in. You know how we look back at leech therapy and think, "What the heck were they thinking?" Well, someday we'll probably do the same with Botox injections, which is basically injecting lethal toxins into your face in the name of youthfulness. Barbaric? Maybe. Effective? Sure, if you're trying to paralyze your wrinkles to oblivion. But hey, let's not judge our ancestors too harshly. After all, they did the best they could with what they had. Even if that meant smoking a pack a day to cure their asthma (spoiler alert: it didn't work). Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

Dr. Brian Goldman takes listeners through the swinging doors of hospitals and doctors' offices, behind the curtain where the gurney lies. In this episode, you’ll hear about how it took more than a year and five delays for 16-year-old Nathan Gilson to get the scoliosis surgery he needed. As Nathan waited, the curvature to his spine got worse, making him uncomfortable and self-conscious. He was teased. He didn’t understand the delay: “They don't care about me, mom.” Across Canada, there were 600,000 fewer operations during the first 18 months of the pandemic. Then, the tripledemic of COVID, flu and RSV forced pediatric hospitals to postpone non-urgent operations. Nathan is recovering well now, but it will take time to truly move on. Meanwhile, 12,000 kids in Ontario are still on the waitlist. You can learn more about Nathan’s story at: https://www.cbc.ca/radio/whitecoat/they-don-t-care-about-me-mom-teen-s-scoliosis-surgery-delayed-five-times-1.6755073 More episodes of White Coat, Black Art are available at: https://link.chtbl.com/Kx7CcGLz

In this episode, the guys sit down with Daniel Nowoselski, Advocacy Manager for Hospice Palliative Care at the Canadian Cancer Society. Daniel shares his passion for palliative care and the importance of advocating for access to it. He reflects on his own experiences as a caregiver and the challenges he faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. We discuss the major gaps in palliative care and the need for investment from our society and government to ensure everyone has access to it. This conversation will give listeners an understanding of why palliative care matters and what can be done to ensure that it is available for all who need it. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

This week we go deep and explore the challenges of loss and grief and how to overcome them. The boys chat with Christy Wopat, a 4th-grade teacher, writer, and award-winning author. Christy has faced the unimaginable loss of her two children, Sofie and Aiden, and has since dedicated her life to helping others who have experienced the same heartbreak. She has published several books, including the award-winning memoir "Almost a Mother: Love, Loss, and Finding Your People When Your Baby Dies," "Mas Ours," an illustrated picture book about remembering loved ones, and "After All: Pregnancy After Your Baby Dies”. Christy shares her personal story of loss and grief, including how she navigated the difficult decisions that come with infant loss, the things people say that can be hurtful, and how grief following the loss of an infant is a forever thing. She will also discuss the role of community and humor in coping with loss, and how it has affected her relationship with her husband. Tune in to hear Christy's journey and hear her tips for finding hope and healing after experiencing loss. Let's support each other as we continue to find our people and never feel alone. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

Scientists are puzzled by a recent study that found the average erect penis length has increased by 24 percent worldwide over the last few decades. The researchers speculate that global environmental causes, including a sedentary lifestyle and exposure to hormone-disrupting substances, could be contributing to the increase. A man in his 50s diagnosed with prostate cancer developed an "uncontrollable 'Irish accent" despite not having one before, according to a report by researchers from Duke University and Carolina Urologic Research Center. The researchers suspect that the man's case is a rare instance of Foreign Accent Syndrome, which basically means that your speech changes in a way that makes it sound like you have a foreign accent. And in this case, it was the luck of the Irish. Apparently, the CDC has tied the use of EzriCare Artificial Tears to a multi-state cluster of Pseudomonas aeruginosa patients. The CDC is investigating at least 50 cases in 11 states that have led to hospitalization, permanent vision loss, and even one death. Yikes. For WHAT THE HELLTH Jer shows us a wild simulation of what it feels like to live with schizophrenia and let's just say it's not not scary. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

Join the dudes as they delve into the current state of the addiction and mental health system with Todd Leader, a multiple-award-winning consultant, social worker, and psychologist. Todd will share his unique perspective and real-life experience of leading a system transformation, which he documented in his book "It's Not About Us; The Secret to Transforming the Mental Health and Addiction System in Canada." In this episode, you'll learn about the reasons behind the failures of the system, key solutions, and how you can play a role in advocating for change. Additionally, Todd will share his personal and shocking experience of a medication-induced severe mental illness and the unique lessons he learned about the rarely discussed side effects of meds, suicidality, and stigma. He'll also share his insights on creating a client-centred system to prevent patients from falling through the cracks. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

The Heart is an audio art project about power and love. From CBC Podcasts, Mermaid Palace and Radiotopia. SISTERS is a 5 episode series that follows the journey of an older and younger sister from birth to adulthood. Natalie and Kaitlin went from being childhood rivals to being best friends. When the sisters decide to work together to create the very podcast series you are about to listen to, they face challenges they never anticipated. Sibling rivalry, mental health struggles and the daunting task of creating an audio series about it all: can these women overcome the patterns they learned in childhood and live in harmony as adults? More episodes are available at: https://link.chtbl.com/s-FhEE6O

The guys welcome Larry Gifford, a man on a mission to raise awareness and find a cure for Parkinson's disease. Diagnosed with Young Onset Parkinson's Disease at 45, Larry didn't let it slow him down. Instead, he co-founded PD Avengers, a global alliance working towards ending Parkinson's disease. Larry and his wife Rebecca also host the podcast "When Life Gives You Parkinson's," sharing their journey and inspiring others. Join us as Larry discusses his role as Ambassador for the World Parkinson Congress 2023 in Barcelona, his involvement with the World Health Organization, and his advocacy for stem cell research. Don't miss this opportunity to learn about the impact of Parkinson's disease and what you can do to help. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

What happens when you bring a gun into an MRI machine? You get shot in the gut, that's what. This week the fellas talk about the latest in medical news including the shocking story of why a Glizzy doesn't belong anywhere near a gigantic machine that has a butt load of magnetic pull. The research is in and it turns out that instant noodles account for almost a third of childhood burn injuries, so if you have a kid make sure you help them with their Mr. Noodles so they don't get hurt! A man suffered from a form of ankylosing spondylitis so severe that his upper body folded onto his thighs. It's absolutely shocking to see how the human body can bounce back after multiple corrective surgeries! Finally, Jer tickles Brian's top 10 list funny bone with a list of the weirdest prescription drug side effects. From rainbow-colored pee, to scary hallucinations this is a list you don't want to miss! Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

The CEO of Eternal Reefs, Inc., George Frankel joins the guys to talk about going green! George has a unique and complete understanding of the personal, emotional and regulatory issues surrounding green cremation memorial options, and has worked with thousands of families as they memorialize their loved ones in the ocean. In this episode, George shares his personal family story, his journey as the CEO of Eternal Reefs, and how the company is working to benefit the marine environment through the use of reef memorials. He also discusses the different environmental uses for Reef Balls, and offers alternative options for cremated remains beyond traditional methods. Plus, hear about Eternal Reefs' memorialize turtles. Join us for an insightful and thought-provoking conversation on the memorialization revolution. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

This week the fellas have a conversation with Chris Caderstrand, a competitor in Canada's Ultimate Challenge. Chris grew up playing hockey in Martensville, Saskatchewan, and went on to play in the WHL. However, his life took a sudden turn when a heavy machinery accident resulted in the amputation of his leg. Despite the setback, Chris taught himself how to skate and snowboard again and eventually found a new passion in sledge hockey. He worked hard to improve his skills, and eventually made his way onto Team Canada's development program, becoming the captain and earning a silver medal at the 2015 World Championships. Tune in as Chris shares his inspiring story of perseverance, determination, and finding purpose through sport after facing a life-altering injury. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

Joy Milne had a superpower that she was unaware of, but it wasn't until her husband's Parkinson's disease diagnosis that she realized her unique ability. She found out that Parkinson's patients have a distinct odor and Joy was able to accurately identify it. This led to groundbreaking research and Joy's sense of smell is now helping scientists find new ways to diagnose disease. The boys break down the latest p*rnhub data and what changes we've seen in 2022! Finally, get ready to turn back the clock, folks! The guys dive into the groundbreaking research that's making waves in the anti-aging world. Scientists have discovered that an existing arthritis drug can mimic the benefits of "young blood" transfusions, and it's all thanks to blocking one critical inflammatory signal. The results in mice were impressive, with improved blood stem cell function and increased regeneration of blood cells. The best part? This drug is already being used in humans, so the possibility of clinical testing is just around the corner. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

This week the fellas chat with Dr. Jody Carrington, the queen of reconnection. With over 20 years of experience as a psychologist and bestselling author, Jody is on a mission to help people solve their most complex human-centered challenges with a smile and all giggles. In this episode, we'll dive into Jody's latest book, "Feeling Seen: Reconnecting in a Disconnected World." With the world feeling more disconnected than ever, Jody shares her insights on why mental health is at a critical point and how we can help each other stay more connected. Jody also challenges the boys to express what they feel makes them valued in this world. It’s a lot tougher than it sounds. Get ready for some laughs and some serious discussions on mental health and human connection. After all, as Jody says, we were never meant to do any of this alone! Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

This week the boys chat with Emi Nietfeld, a writer, speaker, and advocate for young people. Emi's journey through foster care and homelessness inspired her to write a memoir, "Acceptance," which delves into the true meanings of resilience, ambition, and success. Emi explores her backstory with mental health challenges and her turbulent childhood. She also discusses why she concealed her illness on her college applications and our culture's obsession with resilience narratives. Emi has a unique perspective on the damaging belief that mental illness relates to moral "badness" and will share her experiences overcoming these challenges. Get ready to be inspired as Emi shares her story of perseverance and determination. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

Gonorrhoea is causing trouble, with highly resistant cases showing up in Massachusetts. But fear not, some cases were tamed with ceftriaxone. Just a friendly reminder to stay safe and get tested if you think you've got the "clap". On a lighter note, a new male contraceptive called EF-4-177 has been developed, giving guys another option besides condoms or "the snip". This non-hormonal option can reduce sperm count by 45% in mice. Time to take control, fellas! Also! the Arctic blast in Nova Scotia is about to tick off... literally! Biologist Vett Lloyd says that it depends on the snow cover. If there's not much snow, all ticks will be ticked off... forever. But, don't celebrate just yet, the little guys are tougher. Oh by the way, sea spiders can regrow their anuses.

This week the fellas have a rollicking good time with Max Kerman, the unstoppable front man of the party-starting rock band Arkells! We discuss the impact of songwriting on people's lives, and the powerful connections that can be formed with fans through music. Max shares some touching stories of fans who have reached out to the band during times of grief or challenge, and how the band has been able to be a source of support and community for these fans. We also talk about the importance of giving back to the fanbase and the broader community, and the meaningful relationships that can be formed on the road and virtually. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

The boys sit down with Julie, the reigning queen of pain science and mindfulness. She's got the degrees to back it up - Clinical Psychology, Clinical Epidemiology, and a PhD in behavioural medicine. Smart. We delve into the world of pain care, where waiting times are longer than a traffic jam on the way to a job you hate. But the good news? Chronic pain is finally being recognized as a public health emergency, and Julie thinks it's about time! She shares her thoughts on the nervous system, and how mindfulness is the gold standard for fixing the mess. We explore the reality of pain, which is real, no matter what anyone says. Pain impacts everything - your mental health, finances, relationships and more. Julie believes it's time for society to take back control and regulate their own nervous systems.

This week the fellas chat with Suzanne, Mama of two and Disabilities Coordinator at Carleton University! We dive into the world of psychiatric disorders of childbirth. Specifically postpartum anxiety and insomnia! Suzanne has had two very wild rides when it comes to having a baby. Two very different births. One that included a week long insomnia which led to severe anxiety which lasted for quite some time. Through the use of medication, therapy, a rock solid support system and openly sharing her story Suzanne was able to get back on track in order to be the best Mum to Layla and Charlie. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

This week the fellas chat "The Last Of Us". The HBO show depicts a world overrun by deadly fungi, but experts say the threat is all too real. Fungi can infect and control the brain, killing hundreds of thousands of people annually. The WHO's list of high-risk fungi includes Aspergillus fumigatus, Candida species, and Cryptococcosis neoformans. Cordyceps, the fungus depicted in the show, is real and can change an insect's behavior. Climate change's impact on fungi is also a concern, highlighting the need for more research to understand their potential impact on humans and the environment. Jer went to a medium and took a lil' something something from it. One man wears RayBan smart glasses to record his hallucinations. A baby is born a giant down in Brazil. For WHAT THE HELLTH?! Addicted to drugs or alcohol? No worries! Just grab a piece of skin, edit it with CRISPR, reattach it, and voila! You'll turn your nose up at that bottle of whiskey or that line of coke. Mice experiments were a success and now researchers are seeking FDA approval for human trials. In five years or so, you'll be saying goodbye to your secret stash and hello to addiction-free skin! Who knew the solution was just a small piece of skin away! Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

Racism, xenophobia and discrimination have a profound impact on health but are largely overlooked. This week the fellas chat with Kwadwo Kyeremanteng, the director of critical care at the Ottawa hospital about his work as a physician leader and the racism he’s experienced during his time as a physician. Be sure to check out all of the amazing work Kwadwo does on social media at @kwadcast on all social media platforms.

Misha Montana is an award-winning adult film star, hardcore wrestler and stroke survivor. This week she sits down with the fellas to talk about her career in hardcore wrestling and the thrill of bleeding in front of a crowd while being tossed around like a ragdoll. Misha is also a stroke survivor! She spills the tea and reveals how she had her stroke in the middle of making coitus. This led to a long recovery where she still doesn’t have movement or feeling in one side of her face. Misha is one tough cookie. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

This week the fellas tackle their irrational anxieties. It is common for individuals to experience irrational anxieties, which are fears that are not based on reality or are out of proportion to the situation at hand. Scientists accidentally discovered that life may flash before our eyes as we die... while trying to figure out why an elderly patient's brain was having seizures. Whoopsie! Experts calculated the human brain storage by gauging connections between brain cells and decoded that number into bytes and computer memory units. The memory capacity of the human brain is far more than we ever imagined and even more than the most advanced computers. So next time you are struggling to remember where you put your keys, just remember that your brain is a genius storage device, maybe they are just hiding in one of the quadrillions of bytes. Scientists at the University of St Andrews in Scotland have a very important job ahead of them: figuring out what to do if we ever make contact with aliens. But let's be real, it's not like they're going to be able to come up with a plan better than "run and hide." Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

This week the fellas are joined by George from Eternal Reefs. An Eternal Reef is a unique blend of cremation urn, ash scattering, and burial at sea. It is part of a designed reef system created from individual reef balls made of environmentally safe, marine grade concrete that quickly assimilates into the natural ocean environment. These permanent memorials placed on the ocean floor create new marine habitats for fish and other forms of sea life. Eternal Reefs takes the cremated remains of an individual and incorporates them into a proprietary, environmentally safe cement mixture designed to create artificial reef formations. The Eternal Reefs are then placed in one of the permitted ocean locations selected by the individual, friend or family member. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

Siobhan lives with Bipolar 1 & generalized anxiety disorder. Back in 2018, Siobhan came on the show to talk about her mental health. 5 years later she joins the fellas once more. However this time she comes into the conversation with zero memory of her past. Siobhan, unfortunately, got her memory zapped while undergoing treatment for Bipolar 1 and generalized anxiety. Siobhan shares her struggles of rediscovering the world and reintroducing herself to the people in her life, including her husband. She shares how this incident makes her feel like a character in a science-fiction movie. But don't worry, she's found the silver lining in all of this, thanks to her trusty iPhone camera and social media accounts, she was able to piece together her life and spark some memories from the past. Siobhan shares tips on how you too can document your life and keep your memories safe from any future memory-erasing treatments. Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN