Understanding GLP-1 Drugs and Supporting Muscle Health with Dr. Swathi Varanasi-Diaz

Guest Introduction

Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes Dr. Swathi Varanasi-Diaz, a pharmacist with a postdoctoral residency in integrative medicine and co-founder of the Integrative Health Pharmacy Residency Program. Named one of the 50 Most Influential Leaders in Pharmacy in 2023, Dr. Swathi is a trailblazer in healthcare innovation.

What Are GLP-1 Drugs?

Dr. Swathi explains GLP-1 drugs, a class of medications derived from glucagon-like peptide 1 hormones. These medications regulate blood sugar and appetite and were initially FDA-approved for managing Type 2 diabetes. Popular drugs in this category include:

• Ozempic (semaglutide): Approved for Type 2 diabetes.
• Wegovy: A higher dose aimed at appetite suppression and weight loss.

Risks Associated with GLP-1 Drugs

Dr. Swathi discusses common and lesser-known risks of GLP-1 drugs:

1. Gastrointestinal Issues: Nausea, vomiting, and delayed stomach emptying.
2. Off-Label Misuse: Use by individuals outside approved populations.
3. Mental Health Concerns: Potential adverse effects.
4. Muscle Loss: Accelerated loss of muscle mass, impacting quality of life.

Supporting Muscle Health

Dr. Swathi highlights the importance of preserving muscle health, especially for aging individuals or those on GLP-1 drugs. Her recommendations include:

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in salmon, chia seeds, or fish oil supplements.
• Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs): Prevent muscle breakdown and support protein synthesis.
• Fortetropin (MyosMD): A natural compound from fertilized egg yolks that boosts muscle protein synthesis.

Dietary Strategies

For individuals on GLP-1 drugs, Dr. Swathi recommends:

• Eating small, frequent meals with a focus on whole foods.
• Prioritizing high-fiber foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Considering prebiotic fibers to support gut health.

New and Emerging Drugs

Dr. Swathi introduces other groundbreaking drug classes, such as PCSK9 inhibitors for managing cholesterol in individuals with familial high cholesterol.

Supplements and Clinical Research

Dr. Swathi emphasizes the importance of selecting supplements backed by clinical research and regulated for safety and efficacy.

Connect with Dr. Swathi Varanasi-Diaz

• Instagram and LinkedIn: Search for her name to stay updated.
• Website: Visit www.myosmd.com for educational resources on muscle health and longevity.

Closing Remarks

Dr. Allen Lycka thanks Dr. Swathi for her insights and encourages listeners to visit his website, www.drallenlycka.com, for more information on living a fantastic life.

BIO:

Dr. Swathi Varanasi-Diaz, Pharm.D., is a trailblazing healthcare innovator and the first U.S. pharmacist to complete a postdoctoral residency in integrative medicine. Co-founder of the Integrative Health Pharmacy Residency Program, she combines expertise in biotech, personalized medicine, and clinical research to revolutionize patient care. Named one of the 50 Most Influential Leaders in Pharmacy in 2023, Dr. Swathi is a sought-after advisor, lecturer, and published researcher driving healthcare innovation forward.

Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/doctorswathi/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/swathi-varanasi/

Website: https://myosmd.com/ or https://myosmd.com/pages/medical-advisors

Decoding Narcissism and Finding Freedom with Dr. Valerie Sussman

Introduction

In this episode, Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes Dr. Valerie Sussman, a retired pediatrician, artist, writer, and survivor of narcissistic abuse. Valerie shares her inspiring journey of leaving a 20-year emotionally abusive marriage, trading her stethoscope for a paintbrush, and finding healing through art, writing, and humor.

Key Topics Discussed

Understanding Narcissistic Relationships

• Valerie describes how her journey to recognizing emotional abuse began with what she calls the "Google test for narcissism."
• The "death by 1,000 cuts" nature of narcissistic relationships and their psychological toll.
• The textbook cycle of narcissistic abuse: Love Bombing, Devaluing, Discard, and Hoovering.

The Six Hallmarks of Narcissism

Valerie outlines the "6 Es" that can help identify a narcissist:

1. Exploitation – Using people as tools for personal gain.
2. Envy – Sabotaging others' successes.
3. Lack of Empathy – Faking empathy without genuine feelings.
4. Entitlement – Expecting special treatment and constant attention.
5. Eggshells – Fragile egos that require constant ego-soothing.
6. Emotional Blackmail – Weaponizing insecurities and fears.

Breaking Free and Finding Healing

• Valerie explains "hopeium," the addictive hope that keeps victims in toxic relationships.
• Advice for healing: Reconnect with your core values and passions, embrace creativity, and seek therapy.
• Valerie shares how art and writing played a critical role in her recovery.

Teenagers and Toxic Relationships

• Red flags that your teenager may be in a toxic relationship, including behavioral changes, secrecy, and loss of self-confidence.

Living a Fantastic Life

• Valerie's transformation after leaving her marriage: rediscovering joy, setting boundaries, and aligning her life with her values.
• The importance of recognizing what fills you up versus what depletes you.

Memorable Quotes

• "Trust your gut. If something feels off, there’s probably a reason."
• "Hopeium is dangerous—it keeps us hooked and away from reality."
• "Living a fantastic life means aligning with your purpose and embracing what lights you up."

Resources Mentioned

• Valerie’s upcoming book: Decoding Narcissism: A Survivor’s Guide from A to Z (expected release next year).
• Website: www.valeriesussman.com
• Instagram: @ValerieSussman_creative

Call to Action

• Visit Dr. Allen Lycka’s website: www.drallenlycka.com for more resources.

Closing Thoughts

Dr. Valerie Sussman’s journey of resilience and rediscovery is a testament to the power of self-awareness and creativity in healing. Tune in to learn how to recognize narcissistic traits, rebuild after abuse, and live a fantastic life.

BIO:

Dr. Valerie Sussman is a retired pediatrician, an artist, writer, and a survivor of narcissistic abuse. At fifty, Valerie traded her stethoscope for a paintbrush, leaving a twenty-year emotionally abusive marriage to embark on a journey of self-discovery. Now she’s dedicated to guiding others through their own transformations using art, writing, and a healthy dose of irreverent humor.

Her upcoming book, Decoding Narcissism: A Survivor Guide from A to Z, will be available in 2025.

Social Media:

Website: Www.valeriesussman.com

Instagram: @valeriesussman_creative

Facebook: Valerie Sussman

Substack: valeriesussman.substack.com

The Perks of Hospice: Stories of Love, Life, and Loss with Linda Moran

Host: Dr. Allen Lycka

Guest: Linda Moran – Retired Public Educator, Author, and Advocate

Introduction

Dr. Allen Lycka introduces Linda Moran, a retired educator of over 35 years, recent widow, and author of The Perks of Hospice: Stories of Love, Life, and Loss. Linda shares her journey through her husband's challenging medical experience and the transformative role hospice care played in their lives.

The Medical Journey

• Chronic Issues and Diagnosis: Linda discusses her husband's health struggles, including an aneurysm, heart attack, open-heart surgery, and stroke.
• The Turning Point: How the recommendation for hospice care shifted their perspective on managing chronic illness and end-of-life care.

The Hospice Experience

• A New Approach to Care: Linda highlights the compassionate support received through hospice, including spiritual caregivers, social workers, and nurses.
• Uncommon Longevity: Despite being given a six-month prognosis, Linda's husband lived two years in hospice, which allowed them to focus on quality of life.
• A Support System Like No Other: Linda shares the “angels” who walked with them through the journey, providing meals, emotional support, and respite care.

Respite House: A Place of Peace

• What is a Respite House? Linda explains how this facility allowed her and her husband to spend his final weeks together in comfort and dignity.
• Quality Time Together: They enjoyed shared moments watching nostalgic TV shows without the burden of caregiving tasks.

The Role of Doctors in End-of-Life Care

• The Need for Training: Linda discusses the lack of training many doctors receive regarding end-of-life issues and how this creates challenges for patients and families.
• A Call for Change: Linda advocates for better education and open communication between doctors and families about hospice and palliative care options.

Linda’s Checklist for Medical Crises

Linda shares practical advice to prepare for medical challenges:

• Understand medical terminology and ask for layman's explanations.
• Keep detailed records of doctors, medications, and allergies.
• Advocate for timely appointments and know when to escalate concerns.
• Carry essential information like insurance cards and medication lists.
• Prepare advance directives, such as a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order

Advice for Her Younger Self

Linda reflects on her life lessons:

• Be kind to everyone; every person has a story you don’t know.
• Live fully and strive to be a force for good in the world.

About Linda’s Book

• Title: The Perks of Hospice: Stories of Love, Life, and Loss
• Where to Buy: Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Ingram, and independent bookstores by request.

Closing Thoughts

Dr. Allen Lycka and Linda Moran encourage listeners to consider hospice as a compassionate option for end-of-life care.

For more information on living a fantastic life, visit Dr. Lycka’s websites:

• www.drallenlycka.com
• www.dralspeaks.com

Interview with Maureen St. Germain - "Living a Fantastic Life and Waking Up in 5D"

Episode Title:

Practical Mysticism and the Path to 5D with Maureen St. Germain

Guest Introduction:

In this episode, Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes Maureen St. Germain, an internationally acclaimed ascension teacher, best-selling author, and founder of the Saint Germain Mystery School. Known as the "Practical Mystic," Maureen shares her insights on spiritual awakening, the path to 5D consciousness, and practical tools for living a fantastic life.

Key Topics and Highlights:

What Does It Mean to Be a Mystic?

• Maureen shares her journey from corporate life to being recognized as a "mystic."
• The term "Practical Mystic" combines her spiritual expertise with tools for everyday life.

Understanding 5D Consciousness

• Maureen defines 5D as a state of unconditional love and higher vibration—like heaven on Earth.
• Insights into how 5D living eliminates negativity and promotes harmonious choices.

Tools for Ascension and Practical Mysticism

• Strategies from her book Waking Up in 5D: meditations, time-awareness techniques, and uplifting daily practices.
• Emphasis on 5D as a gradual process of ascension, not an instantaneous shift.

The Role of Chi in Spirituality and Wellness

• Explanation of "chi" as the body's vital energy, activated through practices like Qigong, Tai Chi, and meditation.
• Using chi to enhance resilience, energy flow, and mental clarity.

The Dragons: Guardians of Clarity

• Maureen describes calling in dragons for clarity and problem-solving.
• Real-life examples of how dragons can transform challenges, from traffic jams to creative endeavors.

Daily Practices to Elevate Your Vibration

• Simple steps: Affirmations before bed, requesting "Heaven on Earth" days, and staying mindful of 5D moments.
• Commitment to daily spiritual practices like Qigong, meditation, and mindful living.

Timeless Wisdom for a Fantastic Life

• Maureen emphasizes listening to your higher self and maintaining a positive outlook, even during challenges.
• Advice to younger versions of ourselves: "Put your air mask on first" and trust in a brighter future

Resources and Links:

Books by Maureen St. Germain

• Waking Up in 5D (Amazon Best Seller, 2017)
• Other titles available on Amazon and through her publisher, Inner Traditions.

Programs and Guided Meditations

• Visit the Saint Germain Mystery School at SaintGermainMysterySchool.com.
• Explore Maureen’s Illuminate App (available for Android and iOS) with over 40 guided meditations.

Follow Dr. Allen Lycka

• Website: DrAllenLycka.com
• Social Media: LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
• Sign up for weekly "Golden Pearls" for inspirational insights and a chance to win exclusive prizes.

Takeaways:

1. Elevate Your Life with 5D Practices: Start by affirming positive intentions daily.
2. Activate Your Chi: Incorporate energy practices into your routine for vitality and balance.
3. Trust the Process: Spiritual growth and alignment unfold gradually; be patient and consistent.

BIO:

Maureen St. Germain, known as the Practical Mystic, has over 30 years experience in mystical traditions. She is an internationally acclaimed ascension teacher and founder of St. Germain Mystery School. Author of seven books, including Amazon best-sellers like, Waking Up in 5D, Maureen is dedicated to helping others connect with their Higher Self and achieve spiritual awakening.

Social Media:

https://practicalmystic.komi.io/

Interview with Elina Furman

Host: Dr. Allen Lycka

Guest: Elina Furman

Topic: Baby Massage, Parenting Hacks, and Living a Fantastic Life

Introduction to Elina Furman

Dr. Allen Lycka introduces Elina Furman, a certified infant massage instructor, author, and entrepreneur. She is the founder of Kahlmi, a baby massage brand that blends holistic wellness with modern parenting solutions, and the author of 101 Baby Hacks, a troubleshooting guide for common parenting challenges. Elina, a mother of two teenage boys, shares her personal experience and passion for helping parents build meaningful connections with their babies.

Elina's Journey into Parenting and Baby Massage

• Personal Challenges: Elina recounts her struggles as a new mom juggling full-time work and parenting.
• Discovering the Importance of Touch: She highlights how touch and connection benefit both babies and parents, empowering mothers during difficult moments like teething, colic, and sleepless nights.
• The Birth of Kahlmi: Motivated by her experience, Elina became a certified infant massage instructor and created Kahlmi (pronounced "call me") to help parents communicate with their babies through touch.

The Power of Touch and Baby Massage

• Communication Through Touch: Since babies cannot talk, massage is a vital way to express care, comfort, and love.
• Building Confidence: Elina discusses how massage builds parents' confidence, alleviates fear, and strengthens the parent-child bond.
• Benefits for Parents: Baby massage is also calming for parents, helping them reset and manage stress and anxiety.

Key Insight: "Our babies are sponges for our energy. If we are fearful or anxious, they will pick up on it."

Practical Parenting Hacks

Elina shares practical and effective baby hacks to address common parenting challenges:

1. Sleep Hacks

• Forehead-to-Nose Massage: Use a finger to gently rub from the forehead to the bridge of the nose in a repetitive motion to calm the baby.
• The Jedi Eyebrow Trick: Gently massage the middle of the eyebrows outward toward the temples to induce relaxation.
• The Pause: When a baby stirs, wait a moment to determine if they are truly awake or transitioning between sleep cycles.

2. Teething Relief

• Use a vibrating massager or gently massage the baby's cheeks with two fingers, moving in small circles from the chin to the ears.
• This technique helps relieve jaw tension caused by teething.

3. Colic and Tummy Issues

• Understanding Colic: Elina explains that colic remains a mystery, though it may be linked to overtiredness or digestive issues.
• Tummy Massage for Gas and Constipation: Use gentle clockwise strokes on the baby’s belly to relieve gas and promote digestion. For diarrhea, rub counterclockwise.

Overcoming Fear and Embracing Parenting

• The Role of Fear: Elina emphasizes that fear can hold parents back from trusting their instincts and enjoying the parenting journey.
• The Message for Parents: Let go of perfectionism and embrace trial and error. Parenting is about exploration, curiosity, and connection.

Connect with Elina Furman

• Book: 101 Baby Hacks: The Ultimate Troubleshooting Guide for New Parents (Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble)
• Website: www.kahlmi.com
• Social Media: Follow Elina on Instagram @getkahlmi for free daily massage tutorials and parenting tips.

BIO:

Elina Furman is a certified infant massage instructor, author, and entrepreneur, passionate about helping parents create meaningful connections with their babies. She is the founder of Kahlmi, a baby massage brand that combines holistic wellness with modern parenting solutions, and the author of 101 Baby Hacks, a troubleshooting guide for common parenting challenges. A mom of two teenage boys, Elina lives in Connecticut, where she enjoys boating, tennis, and mentoring future leaders.

Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/getkahlmi

Guest: Celeste Sowder

Episode Title: I Am Here, But I’m Late – A Journey of Resilience and Redemption

Air Date: [Insert Date]

Host: Dr. Allen Lycka

Introduction

Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes Celeste Sowder, an entrepreneur, author, and speaker. Celeste’s life was transformed by a mental health crisis in 2023, leading her to write her upcoming memoir I Am Here, But I’m Late. She shares her story of overcoming adversity, embracing vulnerability, and founding The Soul Sister Project to help women turn adversity into impactful personal brands.

Celeste’s Journey: From Mental Crisis to Redemption

• Background: Celeste grew up in Texas with societal and family expectations of silence and perfection, leading to what she calls “white-knuckled sanity.”
• The Breakdown: At 40, Celeste experienced a six-month-long psychosis caused by undiagnosed ADHD and a hormonal imbalance.
• The Turning Point: While listening to a book during her healing journey, Celeste chose to “start living” and learn resilience to overcome lifelong barriers.

The Power of Diagnosis and Self-Compassion

• ADHD Diagnosis: Being diagnosed with ADHD helped Celeste understand her struggles and develop self-compassion.
• Resilience and Self-Growth: She learned that resilience was the key to breaking through barriers and implementing meaningful changes in her life.

Healing Out Loud: Sharing to Heal

• Celeste embraced vulnerability by publicly sharing her healing journey.
• Impact: Her transparency resonated with other women facing similar struggles, fostering a supportive community.
• Influence of Brene Brown: Books like Daring Greatly inspired Celeste to recognize and confront shame while embracing vulnerability as a path to healing.

Key Themes from the Conversation

1. The Importance of Vulnerability: Vulnerability opens doors to innovation, creativity, and personal transformation.
2. The Power of Letting Go: Celeste let go of societal expectations and external validation, allowing her to rediscover her true identity.
3. Resilience as a Daily Practice: Resilience is not a one-time event but a commitment to growth, connection, and joy.
4. Mindset Shift: Moving past “fake it till you make it” and fully stepping into the person you are meant to be.

Building Resilience and Embracing Change

• Tools for Healing:
• Visualization as a tool to build resilience.
• Avoiding absorption of negativity and creating mental boundaries.
• Pairing resilience with commitment to growth and connection to achieve joy.
• Dr. Lycka’s Advice: Determination, willpower, and tenacity are the foundation of overcoming challenges.

The Soul Sister Project

• Mission: The Soul Sister Project helps women with adversity-to-advocacy stories build profitable personal brands that thrive on purpose and clarity.
• Vision for Growth: Celeste is restructuring the project into a platform that includes podcasting, education, and showcasing women’s voices.

Final Insights

• Message to Her Younger Self: “You matter. You are seen. You are loved—not for what you do but for who you are.”
• Living a Fantastic Life: Picking yourself up daily, knowing your worth, and showing up for yourself to build a meaningful, purpose-driven life.

BIO:

Celeste Sowder is an entrepreneur, author, and speaker whose life was transformed by a mental health crisis in 2023. Her upcoming memoir, I Am Here, But I Am Late, delves into her journey of resilience after a late diagnosis of ADHD and her discovery of the power of vulnerability. As the founder of The Soul Sister Project, Celeste now helps women turn their stories of adversity into impactful personal brands, demonstrating that it’s never too late to embrace who you are meant to be.

Social Media:

https://www.facebook.com/celeste.sowder

https://www.instagram.com/celestesowder/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/celeste-sowder-b01303117

From Budapest to Hollywood: Katherine MK Mitchell’s Story of Resilience and Triumph

Episode Summary:

In this episode of How to Live a Fantastic Life, Dr. Allen Lycka interviews Katherine MK Mitchell, author of From Budapest to Hollywood. Katherine shares her extraordinary journey from surviving Nazi-occupied Hungary, war, and communism to becoming a nationally ranked gymnast, writer, and agent in Hollywood. Through courage, determination, and an unwavering belief in the power of storytelling, Katherine’s life is a testament to resilience.

Key Takeaways:

• Surviving a War-Torn Childhood:
• Katherine shares how growing up in Nazi-occupied Hungary and later fleeing the country during the Hungarian Revolution shaped her resilience and determination.
• The Impact of Ballet and Gymnastics:
• Initially destined for a career in ballet, Katherine was told her heart condition would cut her life short. Gymnastics became her saving grace, channeling her strength and athleticism into success.
• Escaping Hungary:
• Katherine recounts her perilous journey with her mother, hiding under canvas truck covers and trudging through snow under the watchful eyes of Russian guards.
• Hollywood Beginnings:
• Katherine’s transition to life in Hollywood began as an agent and evolved into screenwriting. Despite English being her second language, her passion and perseverance propelled her forward.
• Writing Career:
• Katherine discusses her memoir From Budapest to Hollywood, her novels, and her love for storytelling, which combines elements of truth and fiction.

Memorable Quotes:

• "I don’t know how to give up. I’ve never learned how to give up." – Katherine MK Mitchell
• "When you’re in the biggest trouble, step back and figure out the upside, because somewhere there is something good lurking." – Katherine MK Mitchell
• "The harder you fall, the bigger the bounce." – Dr. Allen Lycka

Resources Mentioned:

• Katherine MK Mitchell’s Books:
• From Budapest to Hollywood (Memoir)
• Novels available on Amazon: Search for “Katherine MK Mitchell”
• Katherine MK Mitchell’s Website:
• www.KatherineMitchellAuthor.com
• Dr. Allen Lycka’s Website:
• www.drallenlycka.com
• Dr. Allen Lycka’s Speaking Services:
• www.Dralspeaks.com

Call to Action:

Order Katherine MK Mitchell’s memoir From Budapest to Hollywood on Amazon. For inspiring talks on resilience and leadership, visit www.Dralspeaks.com.

BIO:

Katherine MK Mitchell’s life is a tale of resilience and courage. Born in Nazi-occupied Hungary, she survived war, the ill-fated S.S. Exodus and communism before fleeing her home country once the Russians crushed the Hungarian Revolution.

A nationally ranked gymnast survived trudging through snow, the #metoo situations, jumping out of airplanes, working her way up from job-to-job. Her journey as a refugee brought her to New York, where she overcame countless challenges, ultimately making a name for herself in Hollywood. From her early struggles to her rise in the entertainment industry, Katherine's extraordinary experiences have fueled her storytelling.

Katherine's career began in Hollywood, where she worked as an agent, writer, and story analyst, earning membership in the Writers Guild of America West. Throughout her life, Katherine has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to honing her craft, sharing her stories, and inspiring others to live authentically and with purpose.

Social Media:

WEBSITE: www.katherinemitchellauthor.

FACEBOOK: Katherine MK Mitchell