Live & Well

Can a Plant Extract Trigger GLP-1 & Stop Food Noise?

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (LA Times Studios) — Thu, 8 Oct 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Can a plant-based hops extract naturally trigger GLP-1, CCK, and PYY to curb appetite and stop food noise? Calocurb CEO Sarah Kennedy joins Melissa Magsaysay on Live + Well to break down the science of natural appetite control and perimenopause weight management.

CHAPTERS:
00:00 The Plant-Based Supplement Being Compared to GLP-1s
01:01 How Calocurb Was Developed
02:52 Why We Have Bitter Taste Receptors in the Gut
05:04 How Hops Extract May Affect Appetite Hormones
05:47 What the Early Clinical Research Found
07:09 How and When Calocurb Is Taken
08:18 How It Differs From Other Weight Loss Supplements
11:16 Calocurb vs. Prescription GLP-1s (Ozempic/Wegovy)
12:08 What the Weight Loss Trial Found
13:42 Appetite Hormones, Fat Loss, and Muscle
14:13 Why Hunger Isn’t Just About Willpower
16:10 Late-Night Snacking and Food Cravings
19:17 How Practitioners Are Using Calocurb
20:09 What Happens When You Stop a GLP-1? (Rebound Hunger)
21:04 GLP-1 Microdosing and Midlife Weight
22:03 Menopause, Metabolism, and Visceral Fat
23:21 Can Calocurb Help After Stopping a GLP-1?
24:37 Potential Side Effects
25:37 GLP-1s, Weight Loss, and Diet Culture
28:12 Why GLP-1s Changed the Willpower Conversation
29:49 Why People Talk About “Food Noise”
32:31 Is Taking a GLP-1 a Shortcut?
35:00 What “Natural” Means in the Supplement Industry
37:21 The Clinical Trials on Hunger and Cravings
38:17 Why Researchers Studied Women Separately
41:02 Who Should Avoid Calocurb?
41:28 Can You Take Calocurb With a GLP-1?
43:09 Does Drinking Beer Have the Same Effect as Hops Extract?
44:23 Cost and Accessibility
46:15 The Connection Between Appetite and Food Noise
47:16 Could It Affect Alcohol Cravings?
49:46 What Calocurb Is Studying Next

IN THIS EPISODE, YOU'S LEARN:
• How hops-derived extract stimulates natural appetite hormones (GLP-1, CCK, PYY)
• What "food noise" is and why hunger is controlled by biology, not willpower
• What happens when stopping prescription GLP-1 medications like Ozempic or Wegovy
• How perimenopause and menopause impact metabolism, body composition, and weight
• Clinical findings on Calocurb, side effects, and who should consult a doctor first

DISCLAIMER:
This episode is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or stopping any prescription medication or supplement routine.

#GLP1 #Calocurb #WeightLoss #FoodNoise #NaturalGLP1

An Eye Doctor Explains the Everyday Habits Hurting Your Eyes

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (LA Times Studios) — Thu, 1 Oct 2026 18:09:28 +0000

Ophthalmologist and eye surgeon Dr. Dagny Zhu breaks down what screen time is really doing to your eyes — from digital eye strain and dry eyes to myopia, headaches, blue light and changes in vision after 40.

In this episode of Live + Well, Dr. Zhu joins Melissa Magsaysay to separate eye health fact from hype. She explains the 20-20-20 rule for screen breaks, why she tells patients not to rub their eyes, whether blue light glasses and eye supplements actually work, and what you should know about reading glasses, LASIK and popular eye drops.

She also weighs in on viral eye color change surgery and explains why some redness-relief drops can actually make red eyes worse. And one of the biggest misconceptions about eye health? Having 20/20 vision doesn't necessarily mean your eyes are healthy. Dr. Zhu explains how routine eye exams can sometimes uncover serious conditions before you notice changes in your vision.

You’ll learn:
* How screen time affects your eyes
* Why myopia is becoming more common
* The 20-20-20 rule for digital eye strain
* Whether blue light glasses actually work
* Why you shouldn't aggressively rub your eyes
* What happens to your vision after 40
* The risks of eye color change surgery
* Why some eye-whitening drops can cause rebound redness
* What your eyes can reveal about your overall health

By the end of this conversation, you may think differently about what it means to have healthy eyes.

In this episode:
 00:00 Why Myopia Is Increasing Around the World 03:03 Why Eye Health Has Been Overlooked 05:09 Can You Prevent Nearsightedness in Kids? 07:51 How Screen Time Affects Your Eyes 09:19 What Red, Dry Eyes May Be Telling You 10:07 Why You Should Never Rub Your Eyes 11:59 Are Eye Massages Safe? 15:05 Digital Eye Strain and the 20-20-20 Rule 16:35 When Do You Actually Need Reading Glasses? 17:19 Eye Drops That Can Help You Read Up Close 19:28 Why Eye Strain Can Trigger Headaches 21:27 How Far Away Should Your Screen Be? 24:44 Screen Time Before Bed and Blue Light 25:41 Do Blue Light Glasses Actually Work? 27:58 Do Eye Supplements Work? 29:14 The Risks of Eye Color Change Surgery 34:38 Are Eye-Whitening Drops Safe? 35:37 Why Eye Doctors Hate Visine 36:23 Eye Drops That Temporarily Lift Your Eyelids 37:53 Why 20/20 Vision Doesn't Mean Your Eyes Are Healthy 38:58 Why You Still Need an Annual Eye Exam 41:03 What Your Eyes Can Reveal About Your Overall Health 42:35 Blurry Vision, Headaches and When to Get Checked 43:45 Why Sunglasses Are “SPF for Your Eyes”

#EyeHealth #ScreenTime #EyeStrain #Myopia #BlueLight

Bobbi Brown Exposes TikTok Beauty Trends That Ruin Your Face — and Products That Actually Work

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (LA Times Studios) — Thu, 24 Sep 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Bobbi Brown, legendary makeup artist and founder of Jones Road Beauty, gets candid about aging, makeup after 40, injectables, beauty trends, foundation mistakes, TikTok beauty advice, and what the beauty industry still gets wrong about women’s faces.

In this episode of Live + Well, Bobbi Brown joins Melissa Magsaysay to talk about Jones Road, her new memoir “Still Bobbi,” and the beauty philosophy that has defined her career: Makeup should make you look more like yourself… not transform you into someone else.

For more than 30 years, Bobbi has challenged one of the beauty industry’s most persistent messages: that there’s something about your face that needs to be fixed. But in an era of filters, FaceTune, injectables, contouring, and endless before-and-afters, has that pressure actually gotten worse? And what happens when the pursuit of looking “better” starts making your own face feel unfamiliar?

Bobbi gets candid about the beauty trends she wishes would disappear, her feelings about injectables, why she hates hearing that someone looks “good for their age,” and what women are getting wrong about foundation, concealer, and makeup after 40. And after building Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, selling the company to Estée Lauder, Bobbi launched Jones Road in her 60s — bringing with her everything she had learned about beauty, business, and what she never wanted to do again. And she has a different perspective on the idea that women who start something new later in life are “reinventing” themselves.

You’ll learn:
- Why Bobbi Brown believes the beauty industry has historically profited from women’s insecurities
-The beauty trend she wishes would disappear
-Why she thinks we should stop telling women they look “good for their age”
-How to actually find the right foundation shade for your skin
-The concealer mistake she sees people making on TikTok

By the end of this conversation, you may think differently about beauty, aging, and what it actually means to look good at any age. Because after decades in an industry built around transformation, Bobbi Brown’s beauty advice remains remarkably consistent.

In this episode:
01:00 How the Beauty Industry Profits From Insecurity
02:27 Filters, FaceTune and Changing Your Face
04:29 Bobbi Brown on Lasers and Cosmetic Treatments
07:42 How to Find the Right Foundation Shade
11:15 Creating Inclusive Foundation Shades
14:34 Bobbi Brown on Aging and “Looking Good for Your Age”
16:06 Why Getting Older Can Be Freeing
21:15 Clean Beauty and Formulating Jones Road
26:10 Writing “Still Bobbi”
28:03 Bobbi Brown’s Beauty Hot Takes
28:09 The Beauty Trend She Wants to Disappear
28:14 Her Take on Injectables
28:22 The Beauty Rule Women Over 40 Should Ignore
28:32 What TikTok Gets Wrong About Makeup
29:48 Bobbi’s Best Beauty Advice

Check out Live + Well for more conversations about beauty, wellness, longevity, fitness, and what it means to live well.

#BobbiBrown #JonesRoad #Makeup #Beauty #MakeupTips

Sleepmaxxing, Orthosomnia & the Truth About Sleep Trackers | Dr. Michael Breus (The Sleep Doctor)

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (LA Times Studios) — Thu, 17 Sep 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Is "sleepmaxxing" actually wrecking your sleep? Clinical psychologist and sleep specialist Dr. Michael Breus, aka "The Sleep Doctor” breaks down the biggest sleep trends taking over social media and why most of them are overcomplicating something your body already knows how to do.

In this episode, Dr. Breus explains why sleep became a $90 billion industry, what's actually going on with viral trends like the Sleepy Girl Mocktail and mouth taping, and how obsessive tracker-checking can trigger orthosomnia (sleep anxiety caused by wearable data). We also dig into new research on the Apollo Neuro wearable, magnesium and melatonin supplements, why women's sleep research has lagged behind men's, sleep divorce vs. "sleep upgrades," chronotypes (are you a lion, bear, wolf, or dolphin?), and the 5 simple habits that fix sleep for almost everyone.

In this episode:
00:00 – Meet Dr. Michael Breus, "The Sleep Doctor"
00:18 – How sleep became a $90B wellness industry
02:37 – The rise of sleep trackers and wearables
03:57 – What is "sleepmaxxing"?
05:03 – The truth about the Sleepy Girl Mocktail
07:12 – What is orthosomnia?
09:16 – How often should you actually check your sleep tracker?
11:43 – Why sleep research has failed women
12:50 – Menstrual cycle, pregnancy, perimenopause & sleep
13:37 – Sleep apnea looks different in women
14:38 – New data on the Apollo Neuro wearable
20:24 – Magnesium glycinate vs. threonate — do you need it?
22:54 – The melatonin backlash (and why kids shouldn't take it)
26:04 – How to help kids who won't sleep
28:55 – Sleep divorce vs. "sleep upgrade"
33:09 – Chronotypes explained: lion, bear, wolf, or dolphin?
36:52 – Blue light is a myth — here's what actually keeps you up
38:31 – The 3 things your body needs to sleep
41:35 – Dr. Breus's 5-step sleep reset routine

About Dr. Michael Breus:
Dr. Michael Breus is a clinical psychologist, sleep specialist, and bestselling author of The Power of When and Sleep, Drink, Breathe. He hosts the podcast Better in Bed with the Sleep Doctor and shares sleep education across YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok as @thesleepdoctor
🔗 https://sleepdoctor.com/
 
#Sleepmaxxing #Orthosomnia #SleepDoctor #SleepHygiene #SleepScience #Chronotype

More Men Are Getting Penis Filler and Urologists Say Demand Is Surging

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (LA Times Studios) — Thu, 3 Sep 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Are penile fillers and cosmetic urology becoming the new Botox for men? In this episode, host Melissa Magsaysay sits down with board-certified urologists Dr. David Miller and Dr. Joshua Gonzalez to clear up the myths around non-surgical girth enhancement, PhalloFill, and hyaluronic acid fillers.

From scrotal Botox and procedural safety to tackling body dysmorphia and setting realistic anatomical expectations, we break down what is driving today's men's aesthetic optimization movement. Plus, our guests explain how an initial aesthetic consultation often serves as a vital gateway to essential preventative health care.

CHAPTERS / TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 - Introduction to Cosmetic Urology
00:36 - What is Cosmetic Urology?
01:27 - The Optimization Movement: TRT, Peptides, & Aesthetic Procedures
03:10 - Beyond Size: Shape, Scrotal Botox, & Scrotal Webbing
05:08 - The "Botox Era" for Men: Why Hyaluronic Acid Is a Game-Changer
08:05 - Tackling Body Dysmorphia & Normalizing Anatomical Expectations
10:00 - Real Numbers: Average Penile Length vs. Online Myths
11:40 - The "Brad Pitt" Standard: Do Patients Bring Celebrity References?
14:08 - Expectation vs. Reality: Symmetrical, Natural Results
15:10 - Why Urologists Double as Professional Listeners & Therapists
16:40 - Aesthetics vs. Sexual Function: Does Filler Improve Performance?
18:41 - Patient Demographics: Who Is Getting Aesthetic Penile Procedures?
20:41 - How the PhalloFill Procedure Works (Numbing, Placement, & Comfort)
22:19 - Permanent Implants vs. Reversible Hyaluronic Acid Fillers
23:37 - Why Injecting Belongs in the Hands of Trained Urologists
24:56 - Safety Protocols, Aftercare, & Reversibility Options
27:19 - How Long Do Penile Fillers Actually Last?
29:05 - The Surge in Demand & Media Stories Driving the Trend
31:16 - Risks & Choosing the Right Specialist
33:16 - Cosmetic Urology as a Gateway to Preventative Men's Health

CONNECT WITH OUR GUESTS:

Dr. Joshua Gonzalez
Website: https://joshuagonzalezmd.com/
Instagram, TikTok & YouTube: @joshuagonzalezmd
Dr. David Miller
Website: https://www.davidtmillermd.com/

What’s Really Inside Your Mattress?

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (LA Times Studios) — Thu, 27 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Are you sleeping on 20 gallons of crude oil? In this episode we peel back the covers on the "clean sleep" movement to reveal what's hiding inside many conventional mattresses.

Arin Schultz, Chief Growth Officer at Naturepedic explains how conventional bedding affects your health, how to spot greenwashing, and how hand-crafted, organic materials can transform your sleep quality.

In this episode, we discuss:

* Why conventional mattresses are loaded with crude oil, off-gassing chemicals, and flame retardants—and how they contribute to night sweats, headaches, and allergies.

* What terms like "natural" and "eco" actually mean, and why certifiers like GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) and EWG Verified matter.

* How to tailor firmness levels for couples, adjust support through pregnancy, and refresh your mattress layers over time.

* Practical, step-by-step advice for choosing organic sheets, temperature-regulating wool, shredded latex pillows, and low-VOC bedroom materials.

Timestamps:

* 00:00 – What is Clean Sleep?

* 02:16 – Crude Oil & Chemicals in Conventional Beds

* 03:37 – Chemical Off-Gassing vs. Natural Material Scents

* 05:11 – Greenwashing, GOTS Certification & EWG

* 07:28 – Are Mattress Covers Enough?

* 09:40 – Temperature Regulation: Wool vs. Polyurethane Foam

* 10:28 – Modular Design & Customizing Firmness for Partners

* 12:12 – Can Nontoxic Mattresses Still Feel Like a Cloud?

* 18:14 – Navigating Sleep & Comfort During Pregnancy

* 20:35 – Combatting Allergies & Dealing with Unregulated Chemicals

* 23:12 – Fighting for Safer Industry Standards

* 27:03 – The Truth About Flame Retardants & Non-Toxic Flammability Testing

* 30:00 – Upgrading Your Pillows, Sheets & Bedroom Air Quality

Learn More:

https://www.naturepedic.com

#CleanSleep #OrganicMattress #NonToxicMattress #Naturepedic #SleepHygiene

Is the Burden of Infertility on the Wrong Partner?

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (LA Times Studios) — Thu, 20 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Did you know that male factor fertility contributes to up to 50% of conception challenges and miscarriages? In this episode of the Live + Well podcast, we sit down with Ronit Menashe (Co-Founder of WeNatal) and Dr. James Weinberger (Reproductive Urologist) to break down the critical, yet often overlooked, role sperm health plays in family planning.

We dive deep into Trimester Zero — the crucial 70 to 90-day window where sperm regenerates. Learn how targeted lifestyle shifts, antioxidant supplementation, and advanced diagnostics like Sperm DNA Fragmentation (DFI) can drastically improve fertility outcomes for couples.

KEY TIMESTAMPS

* 00:00 – Rethinking the 50/50 Fertility Responsibility

* 01:00 – Ronit Menashe’s Story: Miscarriage, Research, and Founding WeNatal

* 04:00 – Dr. James Weinberger: Shifting the Male Fertility Paradigm

* 06:00 – Can You Reverse Sperm Damage? The 90-Day Regeneration Cycle

* 09:30 – Sperm Quality as the 6th Vital Sign for Male Health

* 10:30 – Semen Analysis vs. Sperm DNA Fragmentation (DFI) Testing

* 13:00 – Insurance Coverage & Changing Male Fertility Care

* 16:00 – Myth Busting: Hot Tubs, Saunas, Seat Warmers, and Briefs

* 18:00 – Male Age-Related Decline & Long-Term Health Risks

* 20:30 – At-Home Sperm Testing Kits: Are They Worth It?

* 22:30 – Trimester Zero: How Couples Can Prepare Together

* 24:00 – Fertility Blockers vs. Fertility Boosters

* 27:30 – Epigenetics: How Lifestyle Choices Affect Your Future Child’s Health

* 33:00 – Actionable First Steps Before Trying to Conceive

* 41:40 – The Truth About NAD+, CoQ10, and Fertility Supplements

GUESTS & RESOURCES

* WeNatal: https://wenatal.com/ | Instagram: [@we_natal]

* Dr. James Weinberger / Reproductive Partners Medical Group: https://male-fertility.reproductivepartners.com/meet-dr-james-weinberger/dr-james-weinberger

#Fertility #MaleFertility #IVF #TrimesterZero #Infertility

Trauma & Stress Get Trapped in Your Fascia

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (LA Times Studios) — Thu, 13 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Garry Lineham, co-founder of Human Garage reveals how physical and emotional trauma get trapped in your fascia, and how simple counter-rotation maneuvers can reset your nervous system in minutes.

In this episode, we explore the fascinating science of fascia: the bioelectric, intelligent connective tissue that holds your entire body together. Garry shares his personal journey from decades of chronic pain to discovering self-healing fascia maneuvers that unlock deep physical tension and calm emotional overload.

Key Topics Covered in This Episode:

* What is fascia? Why science is reclassifying fascia as an intelligent, bioelectric organ.

* Where trauma lives: How physical injury, emotional stress, and mental narratives accumulate in tissue.

* Live fascia reset demo: A quick counter-rotation movement that opens up the shoulders, hips, and diaphragm.

* The jaw & stress connection: Why clenching your jaw locks your entire body into fight-or-flight mode.

* Rapid-fire problem solving: Fascia perspectives on vertigo, 2 AM leg cramps, post-meal bloating, and tight hamstrings.

* True hydration: Why drinking a gallon of water isn't enough and how minerals and silica hydrate fascia properly.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to Garry Lineham & Human Garage

00:30 - Garry’s Journey: From Chronic Pain to Healing

01:19 - Live Demo: Counter-Rotation Shoulder & Hip Reset

03:32 - How Resetting Fascia Changes Energy & Breathing

07:00 - Why Surgeons No Longer Cut Fascia Indiscriminately

08:45 - What "Bioelectric System" Feels Like in the Body

10:30 - Is Life Stressful, or Is Your Jaw Just Tight?

15:58 - Defining Trauma: Incidents, Emotions, and Narratives

20:56 - Working with Elite Athletes (Novak Djokovic)

22:05 - Why Traditional Treatments Often Fail Long-Term

24:45 - The Power of Counter-Rotation Movements

27:55 - Overcoming Chronic Stress, Drugs, & PTSD

30:28 - Rapid Fire: Sudden Vertigo

31:00 - Rapid Fire: Waking Up at 2 AM with Leg Cramps

31:35 - Rapid Fire: Immediate Bloating After Eating (Psoas Release)

32:56 - Rapid Fire: Hamstrings That Stay Tight

33:28 - Dehydration, Minerals, and the Wi-Fi Effect on Fascia

Connect with Human Garage:

Website: https://www.humangarage.net/ Instagram: @humangarage YouTube: @HumanGarage TikTok: @humangarage

#Fascia #FasciaRelease #HumanGarage #SomaticHealing #ChronicPainRelief

Why Your Diet Could Be Failing (Try This First)

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (LA Times Studios) — Thu, 6 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000

This is a sponsored episode, paid for by BIOptimzers, and does not involve the L.A. Times Newsroom.

Are you doing "everything right" with your diet, but still struggling with low energy, sluggish digestion, brain fog, or poor recovery?

In this episode of Live & Well, Wade Lightheart, co-founder of BIOptimizers, exercise physiologist, and former 3x Canadian Natural Bodybuilding Champions shares why most dietary strategies fall short and what core cellular habits actually drive long-term health.

In this video, you’ll discover:

• Why standard diets don’t always deliver results.

• Wade Lightheart's 7-part "AWESOME" formula for cellular longevity.

• How gut degradation and age affect your ability to absorb key nutrients.

• Why muscle mass is your most critical organ for aging well and burning calories.

• The role of genetic testing and DEXA scans in cutting through health confusion.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Why Your Diet Might Be Failing You

01:02 - Wade Lightheart's Personal Journey & Biohacking Origins

03:45 - What Competitive Bodybuilding Teaches About Raw Reality

07:33 - The 7-Step "AWESOME" Longevity Formula 12:16 - Bodybuilders as the Original Biohackers 14:48 - Genetic Testing & DEXA Scans

20:45 - The Founding of BiOptimizers

23:04 - Trace Minerals, Electrical Frequency & Cellular Energy

24:18 - The Truth About Magnesium

27:24 - Why Digestion Declines with Age & How to Restore Absorption

35:15 - Cellular Health, Mitochondria & Bioavailable Supplements

#Longevity #GutHealth #NutritionTips #AntiAging #Biohacking #CellularHealth

Head to https://bioptimizers.com/livewell and use code LIVEWELL for 15% off your order. You'll also unlock exclusive discounts, surprise bonuses, and special offers available to listeners. Plus, every order is backed by a 365-day money-back guarantee.

Kids' Skincare Isn't What Most Parents Think

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (LA Times Studios) — Thu, 30 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Is kid's skincare actually necessary or is it a social media trend that should be ignored? In this episode of Live & Well, we sit down with Esther Song, fashion veteran and co-founder of Rini (alongside Shay Mitchell), to discuss the real science behind children's skin health.

Esther shares her journey from fashion executive to CPG founder after searching for clean, effective solutions for her daughter’s severe eczema. We dive deep into Korean bathhouse culture, why children's skin barriers are thinner than adults, the crucial difference between "unscented" and "fragrance-free," and how Rini is bringing K-beauty innovation into daily care and bath time for kids.

IN THIS EPISODE, WE COVER:

• The truth about kids skincare vs. adult skincare routines

• How growing up in Korea influenced Esther’s approach to skin health

• Why a child's skin barrier is 30% thinner and more vulnerable

• Fragrance-Free vs. Unscented: What parents must look for on product labels

• Rini’s clinical testing standard: Pediatrician-tested vs. dermatologist-tested

• How to address eczema, dry skin, and post-pool skin protection

TIMESTAMPS

00:00 - Introduction: Kids Skincare vs. Bath Time

00:58 - Esther Song’s Journey & Founding Rini with Shay Mitchell

02:54 - Growing Up in Korea & K-Beauty Bathhouse Culture

04:15 - What K-Beauty Really Means: Skin Barrier Protection

06:06 - The 3 Stages of a Child's Skin Barrier Development

08:18 - Replenishing Lost Amino Acids in Kids' Skin 08:50 - Fragrance-Free vs. Unscented: What Parents Need to Know

11:05 - Addressing the "Sephora Kids" Trend & Internet Backlash

12:28 - Fun Meets Function: Clean Face Crayons & Hydrogel Masks 16:07 - Navigating Eczema, Cortisone, and Barrier Creams

17:29 - Rini's Testing Process: Pediatricians, Toxicologists & Raw Ingredients

22:01 - Making Bath Time Fun & Stress-Free for Parents

24:20 - Customer Hacks: Using Hydrogel Masks for Fevers & Sunburns

27:45 - Why K-Beauty Innovation is More Accessible & Affordable

29:29 - Where the Name "Rini" Comes From

#KBeauty #ShayMitchell #Parenting #KidsSkincare #SkinBarrier #Skincare

Peptides Explained | BPC-157, Tesamorelin & What Works

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (LA Times Studios) — Thu, 23 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000

What are peptides, and why is everyone talking about them? From fitness influencers and biohackers to Beverly Hills clinics and Hollywood anti-aging routines, peptide therapy has taken the wellness world by storm.

In this episode of ‘Live & Well’, board-certified family physician and longevity medicine specialist Dr. Daniel Ghiyam breaks down what peptides actually are, how they signal the body, and where the evidence really stands on BPC-157, Tesamorelin, GLP-1s, GHK-Cu, MOTS-c.

We cut through the noise to discuss:

• The "text message" analogy for understanding peptide cellular signaling

• The truth about BPC-157 for tendon, gut, and tissue recovery

• Tesamorelin and Growth Hormone secretagogues for fat loss and muscle

• Why GLP-1 weight loss drugs sparked today's massive peptide craze

• The serious dangers of buying "research use only" peptides online

CHAPTERS & TIMESTAMPS

01:14 - What Is a Peptide? (The Text Message Analogy)

03:54 - How Aging Affects Body Signaling & Cellular Repair

04:40 - The Danger of DIY Injections & Unmonitored Biohacking

07:00 - Understanding FDA Approvals vs Off-Label Peptides

11:20 - Did GLP-1s Spark Today's Peptide Craze?

12:50 - Preserving Muscle Engine During Weight Loss

15:28 - BPC-157 Deep Dive - Evidence & Stomach Acid Origins

18:50 - GHK-Cu Copper Peptides for Skin, Collagen & Hair Growth

22:50 - PT-141 & Tanning Peptides - The Story Behind Melanotan

25:12 - Dr. Ghiyam’s 3 Pillars of Health & Longevity

26:25 - Tesamorelin & Growth Hormone Secretagogues Explained

33:20 - Regulatory Gray Market & Compounding Pharmacies

38:55 - The Risks of Buying Online Peptides (Impurity & Fake Batches)

41:25 - MOTS-c - The Exercise Mimetic Peptide

KEY TOPICS COVERED

• Peptides 101 - Short amino acid chains (under 50) that act as direct chemical signaling messengers between organs and cells.

• Tesamorelin & Growth Hormone Secretagogues - How FDA-approved Tesamorelin stimulates natural pituitary output to reduce visceral fat while preserving lean muscle mass.

• Human Clinical Data vs. Mouse Data - Why rodent studies on popular repair compounds like BPC-157 do not immediately guarantee human outcomes.

• The Gray Market Danger - Risks of ordering unverified "research chemicals" online using cryptocurrency, including sterile contamination, improper storage, degradation, or placebo sugar pills.

• Comprehensive Longevity - Why peptide protocols must be layered on top of sleep hygiene, stress management, and resistance training.

GUEST INFORMATION

Dr. Daniel Ghiyam is a board-certified family physician with over 25 years of clinical experience. He is the co-founder and Medical Director of MedPodLA, a concierge longevity and performance medicine practice based in Beverly Hills, California.

https://medpodla.com/

⚠️ DISCLAIMER

The information provided in this video is strictly for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before beginning any peptide therapy, supplement regimen, or longevity protocol.

#Peptides #BPC157 #Tesamorelin #GLP1 #Longevity #Biohacking #AntiAging

Menopause & Intimate Wellness Boom: From Taboo to Big Business

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (LA Times Studios) — Thu, 16 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Vaginal dryness, bladder leaks, painful sex, and postpartum recovery — for decades, these everyday realities were ignored by mainstream medicine and dismissed as “just part of aging.” Today, they represent one of the fastest-growing sectors in healthcare, wellness, and venture capital.

In this episode, we sit down with two trailblazing CEOs approaching the women’s intimate wellness boom from two distinct angles: Colette Courtion (Founder & CEO of Joylux) and Dawn Halkuff (CEO of LiviWell).

Together, they break down how they transitioned from personal and professional frustrations into building category-defining businesses, how the “menopause movement” is shifting consumer behavior, and the massive opportunities ahead for founders and investors in Femtech.

💡 KEY TOPICS COVERED:

• The Taboo Tax: Why women’s pelvic and intimate health was historically ignored by capital and medicine.

• Consumer vs. Medical Innovation: How Joylux’s vFit PLUS (red-light therapy) & LiviWell’s FDA-cleared Livi device (post-intercourse fluid absorption) tackle unmet needs.

• The Halle Berry Partnership: How Joylux teamed up with Halle Berry’s wellness platform, Respin, to normalize midlife intimate health.

• The Regulatory Path: What FDA clearance means for safety, consumer trust, and commercial scaling.

• The Future of Femtech: What must catch up, from insurance coverage to provider education, for the intimate wellness market to reach its multi-billion-dollar potential.

#WomensHealth #Menopause #IntimateWellness #SexualHealth #Femtech

00:00 Introduction: The women's intimate health boom

01:28 The personal catalysts: Behind the scenes of postpartum and industry gaps

12:20 Why now? The convergence of capital, culture, and consumer demand

16:09 The Viagra disparity: Why men's health got a pill and women got silenced

22:00 How it works: Red-light therapy and vaginal rejuvenation (Joylux vFit PLUS)

24:48 Halle Berry partnership with Respin

28:53 Clinical validation: Introducing Livi, the first FDA-cleared post-sex vaginal care device

33:53 Combatting the "wellness trend" stigma with hard science

38:28 Guest-to-guest Q&A and final takeaways

Train for Life, Not Just the Gym: Mobility, Stability & Moving for Longevity

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (LA Times Studios) — Thu, 21 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000

From carrying groceries to checking your blind spot while driving, life happens in motion — and your workouts should reflect that. Pvolve's Dani Coleman joins Live & Well to share why multidimensional training helps build strength that extends beyond the gym. We talk about mobility as the missing link in fitness, training for longevity, and how small, intentional movement patterns can help you feel stronger, more resilient, and more connected to your body every day.

Recovery Isn’t An Afterthought: Moving Through Life with Less Pain and More Ease

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (LA Times Studios) — Thu, 14 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Most people think recovery happens after the workout. According to Dr. Jason Wersland, that’s the biggest mistake we make.

On this episode of Live & Well, the Therabody founder & recovery expert explains why recovery should happen before, during, and after movement — not just when you’re already sore. From activating the nervous system before exercise to reducing burnout and speeding up rebound between sets, Dr. J breaks down how elite athletes use recovery as part of performance itself.

He also shares the science behind pain relief, nervous system regulation, blood flow, and why staying ahead of soreness can help prevent injuries, improve mobility, and keep your body performing at its best. Whether you’re training hard or just trying to move without pain, this episode will change the way you think about recovery.

Commit to Less, Show Up More: Joyful Movement & Fitness for Every Life Stage

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (LA Times Studios) — Thu, 7 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000

What if the secret to getting stronger wasn’t doing more—but doing less, consistently? In this episode of Live and Well, Melissa Magsaysay sits down with Sculpt Society founder Megan Roup to unpack a refreshing, sustainable approach to fitness that actually works.

From her early struggles with body image and the pressures of the dance world to building a global fitness platform, Megan shares how she redefined movement as something joyful, inclusive, and empowering—not punishing. The conversation dives into why extreme workouts and “all-or-nothing” mindsets often backfire, and how shorter, well-programmed workouts can be more effective for long-term results.

They also explore how fitness needs evolve across life stages—from your 20s to pregnancy, postpartum, and midlife—and why the industry is finally starting to acknowledge conversations around perimenopause, hormones, and women’s health. Megan breaks down common misconceptions around strength training, low-impact workouts, and the idea that you have to be drenched in sweat for a workout to “count.”

If you’ve ever struggled to stay motivated, felt intimidated by fitness trends, or wondered how to create a routine that actually sticks—this episode is your permission slip to simplify.

The Future of Facial Rejuvenation: Fillers or Fat Transfer?

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (LA Times Studios) — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000

What if the future of facial rejuvenation isn’t synthetic—but your own biology? In this episode of Live and Well, we sit down with renowned facial plastic surgeon Dr. Paul Nassif to break down the rising shift from traditional fillers to micro fat transfer.

Known for his precision work and complex revision cases (and as a star of Botched), Dr. Nassif explains why more experts are rethinking long-term use of fillers—from migration to hidden scar tissue—and how these trends are shaping the next era of aesthetics.

Dr. Nassif also unpacks the nuances between micro fat and nano fat, where and how fat is placed in the face, and what really happens as your body ages, loses volume, or changes with weight fluctuations.

Whether you’re filler-curious, considering facial rejuvenation, or just want to understand what’s actually happening beneath the skin, this episode delivers a clear, expert-led look at where beauty—and science—are headed next.

The Hair Growth Breakthrough: Inside the Peptide Revolution

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (LA Times Studios) — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Hair loss, thinning, breakage—what’s really going on beneath the surface? In this episode of Live and Well, host Melissa Magsaysay sits down with OMI founder Naomi Whittel to unpack the science of hair health and why peptides are emerging as a game-changing solution. From the biology of hair follicles to the role of stress, hormones, and aging, Naomi shares how a patented keratin peptide is helping women retain more hair, grow it longer, and rethink beauty from the inside out.

They dive into the difference between supplements, pharmaceuticals, and peptide technology, the truth about topical treatments, and why hair is one of the clearest signals of overall health. Plus, a candid conversation on women’s health, hormone shifts, and why the future of wellness is deeply personal—and data-driven.

If you’ve ever wondered why your hair won’t grow past a certain length or how to actually support it at the root, this episode is your new starting point.

Dr. Pimple Popper on Blackheads, Breakouts & What Your Skin Is Really Telling You

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (LA Times Studios) — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Everything your body is going through shows up on your skin first. Most of us just don't know how to read it.

Dr. Sandra Lee, aka Dr. Pimple Popper, breaks down what is actually happening inside a blackhead, why hormones are the real driver behind most breakouts and what your skin is trying to tell you at every stage of life. We get into hyperpigmentation versus scarring, the ingredients dermatologists actually trust, why perimenopause changes your skin in ways nobody talks about, and why a pimple might actually be something to celebrate.

This is the kind of conversation that quietly shifts how you think about your skin. Not what to buy or add in, but what is actually happening beneath the surface every time something shows up on your face.

How Your Cooking Methods Are Aging You (And What to Do Instead)

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (LA Times Studios) — Thu, 9 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000

You've spent years thinking about what you eat. How you cook it might be a bigger part of the picture than you'd expect.

Nutrition scientist and registered dietitian Dr. Michelle Davenport breaks down what actually happens to your food under high heat and why it shows up in your body long after the meal is over. We get into AGEs, inflammation, metabolic health, and why the chemistry of cooking is one of the most underrated conversations in longevity.

This is the kind of conversation that quietly shifts how you think about food. Not what to cut out or add in, but what's actually happening at a cellular level every time you turn on the stove.

The Science Behind Sensitive Skin, Your Barrier and What Your Routine Is Getting Wrong

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (LA Times Studios) — Thu, 2 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Sensitive skin is one of the most misunderstood topics in beauty. Most of us have been told we have it. Very few of us actually know what it means.

In this episode, Tower 28 Founder and CEO Amy Liu joins Melissa Magsaysay to get to the bottom of what sensitive skin really is, why it's almost always a barrier problem, and what inflammation is doing beneath the surface to flare it. We talk about greenwashing, unregulated claims, the ingredients worth avoiding, and why simplifying your routine is almost always the right call.

Plus, we discuss the science behind hypochlorous acid, what the National Eczema Association actually looks for in a product, and why the beauty industry's testing standards are not what you think they are.

What a Celebrity Trainer Actually Wants You to Know About Diet and Fitness

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (LA Times Studios) — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000

If fitness and nutrition feel more confusing than ever, you're not imagining it. Most of what's out there is louder than it is useful.

Celebrity trainer Harley Pasternak has worked with some of the most recognizable bodies in the world. His take on what actually moves the needle is simpler than you'd expect and more honest than most of what's in your feed.

In this episode, he breaks down the biggest myths around strength training, calorie counting, and popular diets. He will also explain why you don’t need an hour in the gym, what's actually driving weight gain, and why restrictive diets almost always get misinterpreted.

What comes out of it is a more sustainable, less complicated way to think about your health and the kind of advice that sticks because it's actually doable.

Puberty is Starting Earlier: Here’s What Every Parent Needs to Know

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (LA Times Studios) — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Puberty is arriving earlier than ever, and most parents aren’t prepared for it. Pediatrician Dr. Cara Natterson explains why kids are entering puberty years sooner than previous generations and what that means for their health, brain development, and emotional lives.

From environmental exposures and chronic stress to the neuroscience of adolescence, Dr. Natterson gives parents the science they need to understand what their kids are actually going through. She also addresses the support gap between boys and girls, the limits of school sex education, and how to talk to your kids in ways that actually land.

It's all in the Ritual: How to Navigate the Overwhelming Supplement Aisle

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (LA Times Studios) — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Most supplements on the market have never been studied on women.

In this episode, Ritual founder Kat Schneider explains why supplement research has historically focused on men, how terms like “clinically studied” are often misunderstood, and what real scientific validation should look like.

The conversation explores ingredient traceability, how supplement formulations are actually tested, and why sourcing and dosage matter as much as the ingredient itself. Schneider also explains how contaminants like heavy metals can enter protein powders and other supplements, and why greater transparency across the industry is becoming essential.

For anyone navigating the supplement aisle, this episode breaks down how to evaluate safety, efficacy, and the science behind what you're taking.

The Truth About “Clean” Products and Toxic Chemicals in Your Home

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (LA Times Studios) — Thu, 5 Mar 2026 11:00:00 +0000

How worried should we really be about toxic chemicals in our homes? Environmental advocate and author Lindsay Dahl breaks down what actually matters when it comes to reducing everyday exposure.

From greenwashing and “clean” product marketing to microplastics and household dust, she explains the science in a practical way that won’t leave you feeling overwhelmed. Dahl also shares the simple habits that can make the biggest difference in your home environment.

If you’ve ever wondered how to create a healthier home without obsessing over every ingredient label, this conversation offers a realistic place to start.

For more on this story: https://www.latimes.com/live-well/longevity/story/microplastics-in-human-body-reduce-exposure

What Is Fascia? The Overlooked System That Shapes How Your Body Functions

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (LA Times Studios) — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 11:00:00 +0000

Fascia is one of the most overlooked systems in the body, yet it plays a critical role in how we move, recover, and support cellular health. In this episode, fascia expert Ashley Black explains what fascia actually is, why it has historically been misunderstood, and how connective tissue influences everything from mobility to circulation.

From her personal health journey to the science behind tissue regeneration, this conversation reframes how we think about the body’s foundation and why fascia may be more important than we realize.

Colette Laxton on The Inkey List and Breaking the Instant-Gratification Skincare Cycle

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (LA Times Studios) — Thu, 19 Feb 2026 11:00:00 +0000

Skincare does not need to be complicated to work.

In this episode of Live & Well, Colette Laxton, co-founder of The Inkey List, breaks down what actually makes a product effective and why overdoing it might be the very thing hurting your skin.

The conversation explores the rise of instant-gratification beauty, the overuse of exfoliating acids, what is really happening when the skin barrier is compromised, and why hydration remains the foundation of healthy skin. Colette explains how The Inkey List builds formulas without fillers or fragrance, why packaging is designed for clarity over aesthetics, and which ingredients truly support long-term skin health.

If your routine feels overwhelming, this episode is a reset.

Inside the Noninvasive Facelift: Melissa Imperial on Microcurrent, Fascia, and Aging Well

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (LA Times Studios) — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 11:00:00 +0000

Noninvasive facelifts are everywhere, but what is actually happening beneath the skin?

On this episode of Live and Well, celebrity esthetician Melissa Imperial shares her approach to lymphatic sculpting, fascia release, and microcurrent therapy. Her method focuses on strengthening facial muscles, releasing built up tension, and supporting circulation to influence lift, clarity, and long term skin resilience.

The conversation explores how structure impacts the face over time, why there is no single quick fix, and what an intentional aging plan can look like. She details the natural ingredients she relies on, how they support inflammation and circulation, and the daily rituals she uses to maintain clarity and resilience across different stages of skin.

Sheena Zadeh on Creating Kosas and Rethinking Clean Beauty

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (LA Times Studios) — Thu, 5 Feb 2026 11:00:00 +0000

Kosas founder Sheena Zadeh shares how clean beauty makeup is actually developed and tested, along with the cosmetic treatments and routines that shape her approach to skin.

In this episode of Live + Well, Sheena reflects on building Kosas from the ground up, the discipline behind high-performance clean makeup, and how product development, skin health, and in-office treatments all inform the way she thinks about beauty today.

Amanda Kloots on Building a Supplement Routine That Actually Sticks

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (LA Times Studios) — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 11:00:00 +0000

Staying consistent with wellness can feel overwhelming, especially when routines are rigid, expensive, or hard to maintain. Amanda Kloots knows this firsthand.

In this episode of Live and Well, the actress, fitness entrepreneur, and founder of Proper talks about why she built her supplement company around flexibility rather than perfection. She shares the idea of the “supplement graveyard,” explains why taste and affordability matter more than people think, and discusses how wellness needs can change day to day.

Kloots also reflects on her background in fitness, how she approaches movement as a daily practice, and why removing guilt from wellness routines can make healthy habits more sustainable over time. This conversation offers a more realistic, forgiving way to think about supplements and self-care.

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Why Trampoline Cardio May Be One of the Most Efficient, Low-Impact Workouts

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (LA Times Studios) — Thu, 22 Jan 2026 11:00:00 +0000

Trampoline-based cardio is often overlooked, but research, including studies conducted by NASA, suggests it may be one of the most efficient low-impact workouts available.

In this episode of Live & Well, host Melissa Magsaysay speaks with trampoline fitness trainer and Trampoline Trim founder Tiffany Marie Jenkins about why trampoline cardio is easier on the joints than running, how it supports cardiovascular health, balance, and bone density, and what makes it effective in less time.

They also break down the mechanics behind trampoline workouts, including why the movement focuses on pressing down rather than jumping up.

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What Most People Miss About Protein, Muscle, and Recovery

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (LA Times Studios) — Thu, 15 Jan 2026 11:00:00 +0000

Protein is usually framed around intake, how much to eat and how to fit more into a day. But protein’s role in the body goes beyond muscle alone, and what happens after you eat it matters just as much.

In this episode of Live + Well, Courtney McHugh, founder of Amplifye, joins the conversation to talk about how protein supports muscle recovery, strength, sleep, and overall health, and why absorption is often the missing piece. The discussion explores how a certain supplement can support protein absorption, allowing the protein you already eat to work more effectively in your body.

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The Brow Reset: Regrowth, Microblading, and How to Achieve Effortless, Natural Brows

Thu, 8 Jan 2026 11:00:00 +0000

Brows have been shaped, overplucked, tattooed, and redefined for decades. In this episode of Live + Well, we sit down with celebrity brow expert Kristie Streicher to talk about her philosophy on brows and how her approach has evolved alongside changing trends.

Kristie walks through her method to regrowth, microblading, tinting, and pigment correction, and explains why brow shape, texture, and patience matter more than perfection. This conversation is less about chasing trends and more about understanding brows, how they age, and how to work with what you have in a way that feels natural, realistic, and personal.

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The Pilates Method: Reformer vs. Mat, Real Results, and What Most Studios Get Wrong

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (LA Times Studios) — Thu, 18 Dec 2025 11:00:00 +0000

Pilates is everywhere right now, but the practice itself is often misunderstood.

In this episode of Live & Well, Liana Levi, founder of Forma Pilates, explains the fundamentals of Pilates and how and why the practice works when taught correctly. Known for its referral-based, highly personalized approach, Forma Pilates has built a following that includes Hollywood talent, fashion insiders, founders, and fitness fanatics alike.

Liana breaks down the difference between reformer and mat Pilates, how often the practice should be done to see results, and why consistency matters more than intensity.

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Facelifts, Lower Blephs, and The Art of Natural Results With Plastic Surgeon Dr. Cat Chang

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (LA Times Studios) — Thu, 11 Dec 2025 11:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Live & Well, host Melissa Magsaysay speaks with Beverly Hills plastic surgeon Dr. Cat Chang, whose precise technique, natural aesthetic philosophy, and high-profile clientele have positioned her as one of the leading voices in contemporary facial surgery.

Dr. Chang traces her unexpected transition from transplant medicine to aesthetics, offering a rare look at why facial surgery requires both technical rigor and artistic vision. She outlines the critical questions every patient should ask before pursuing a facelift, clarifies what terms like “mini lift” and “deep plane” truly mean, and explains why thoughtfully evaluated before-and-after images provide far more insight than procedural buzzwords.

How Traditional Chinese Medicine Helps You Heal From the Inside Out with Elix Founder Lulu Ge

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (LA Times Studios) — Thu, 4 Dec 2025 11:00:00 +0000

Elix founder Lulu Ge joins Melissa for a conversation on the benefits of Traditional Chinese Medicine and its ability to steady hormones, ease digestion, improve sleep and soften daily stress. Through personal stories and cultural wisdom, Lulu shows how an ancient approach can feel surprisingly modern, intuitive, accessible and genuinely supportive for women looking for real relief.

Listen now for a grounded, benefit-rich take on feeling well from within.

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The Hormone & Infrared Revolution with Burn LA’s Maria Chase and Longevity Expert Dr. Chris Asandra

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (LA Times Studios) — Thu, 20 Nov 2025 11:00:00 +0000

From navigating perimenopause to building muscle and boosting mood, Burn LA founder Maria Chase and longevity expert Dr. Chris Asandra are here to break down the science of hormone balancing and share simple and effective strategies to feel your best at any age.

In this episode of Live and Well, host Melissa Magsaysay talks with this dynamic duo about how infrared workouts, red-light therapy, and practicing hormonal awareness can efficiently transform your energy levels and back-track aging.

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The Retinol Reset: Shani Darden on Simplifying Skincare for Real Results

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (LA Times Studios) — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 11:00:00 +0000

In an era of 17-step skincare routines and endless “miracle” ingredients, Shani Darden is bringing things back to basics. Known as Hollywood’s go-to retinol expert, the celebrity esthetician and founder shares why less is more when it comes to great skin.

In conversation with Live & Well host Melissa Magsaysay, Shani breaks down her “Cleanse, Treat, Protect” philosophy, explains why retinol remains the gold standard for aging well, and debunks the hype around “natural retinol” alternatives.

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Inside Phlur: Chriselle Lim on Storytelling, Scent Craft, and Building a Fragrance Brand

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (LA Times Studios) — Thu, 6 Nov 2025 11:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Live & Well, host Melissa Magsaysay sits down with Chriselle Lim, owner and creative director of Phlur, to explore the vision behind the fragrance brand she helped reintroduce and shape into a modern success. Chriselle shares how she approaches scent as an emotional language and how storytelling informs every stage of the creative process, from early concepts to formulation and launch.

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The Truth About Facelifts: Dr. Jason Diamond on Deep Plane, Tech Neck & Non-Surgical Solutions

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (LA Times Studios) — Thu, 30 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000

What does anti-aging look like in an era defined by filters, “tech neck,” and celebrity-fueled beauty trends? Host Melissa Magsaysay sits down with Dr. Jason Diamond, the Beverly Hills plastic surgeon renowned for his celebrity clientele and artistry in aesthetic medicine. Together, they explore how the philosophy around aging has evolved—from deep plane facelifts and non-surgical rejuvenation to the growing desire to enhance rather than change. He unpacks the move from celebrity photos to filtered selfies as patient inspiration—and what that evolution reveals about beauty and authenticity today.

Discover more from Live & Well on social. Watch this conversation on YouTube & Spotify. For more stories, expert insights, and wellness inspiration, visit latimes.com/live-well or sign up for our newsletter.

Debunking Pigmentation: Dr. Nancy Samolitis on Melasma Triggers, Why Lasers Can Backfire, and the Ingredients That Really Work

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (LA Times Studios) — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000

What if the go-to treatment for dark spots was actually making them worse? In our first episode of Live & Well, host Melissa Magsaysay is joined by top dermatologist Dr. Nancy Samolitis to challenge our most common assumptions about pigmentation.

This conversation delivers a masterclass in decoding pigmentation. Dr. Samolitis dismantles the myths and marketing claims, explaining why heat may be the enemy of melasma, and why a high-percentage Vitamin C serum isn't the silver bullet you've been sold. We get into the real science of how pigment forms and the expert-level strategies to finally get it under control.

Introducing: Live & Well

darius.derakshan@latimes.com (Melissa Magsaysay, L.A. Times Studios) — Thu, 16 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Live & Well is your weekly catch-up with author, mother, and influencer Melissa Magsaysay and her circle of experts and icons—diving deep into the latest wellness, longevity, beauty and fitness and issues surrounding women. Melissa will take listeners into a vibrant world where beauty, fashion, and wellness intersect with cultural moments and personal transformation.

Each episode features conversations with leading + buzzy dermatologists, fitness innovators, beauty founders, and celebrities alike. Listeners can expect pro tips, product recs, juicy insider stories, and empowering perspectives that go beyond surface-level self-care—because looking good is great, but feeling good is everything.