Episodes

  • Cancer Isn’t What You Think: The New Science of Tumor Microenvironments with Dr. Anderson

    Cancer Isn’t What You Think: The New Science of Tumor Microenvironments with Dr. Anderson
    Dec 10 2025
    📬 Join Dr. Goodyear’s Newsletter ➡️ https://pre-scribed.com/subscribe/ Episode Overview In this episode of the Prescribed Podcast, Dr. Nathan Goodyear sits down with Dr. Paul Anderson, ND—an integrative oncologist, researcher, and educator whose work has reshaped how clinicians think about cancer stem cells, the tumor microenvironment, and complex chronic disease. Together, they unpack why standard therapies like chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery can win a short-term battle by shrinking visible tumors while silently empowering cancer stem cells and setting the stage for relapse. They explore how an inflamed tumor microenvironment, immune dysregulation, environmental toxicity, and a disrupted microbiome can hijack normal defenses and turn them into cancer’s allies. From pediatric and early-onset cancers to aggressive recurrences and the legacy of his Advanced Applications in Medical Practice (AAMP) conferences, Dr. Anderson argues that medicine must move beyond silos, embrace collaboration, and return to its roots as a teaching profession that multiplies healing. This isn’t just a conversation—it’s a call to action for patients and clinicians to understand the biology beneath treatment and help build the bridges that will shape the future of integrative oncology. Listeners will leave with clearer next steps. 📌 Key Takeaways Cancer stem cells and daughter cells respond very differently to treatment. Conventional therapies can debulk large tumors while enriching a deeper stem-cell pool that drives relapse. The tumor microenvironment is the real chessboard. Immune cells, stromal cells, cytokines, and signaling molecules form a “field of play” that can tilt toward either tumor control or tumor promotion. Short-term victories can create long-term biological debt. Surgery, chemo, and radiation may be necessary to reduce tumor burden, but without changing the microenvironment, residual stem cells can fuel more aggressive, treatment-resistant disease. Plasticity means cancer can adapt quickly. Under the wrong signals, daughter cancer cells—and even previously normal cells—can acquire stem-like traits and become engines of progression. Cancer today is not the cancer of yesterday. Over his clinical career, Dr. Anderson has seen more pediatric cancers, more early-onset malignancies, and more aggressive second primaries emerging after initial remission. Patients are driving the demand for integrative oncology. People want both remission and quality of life, pressing oncologists and integrative practitioners to collaborate instead of compete. Chronic illness and cancer share common terrain. Toxic burden, immune dysregulation, and environmental stressors show up both in complex chronic illness and oncology. Bridge-building is the real legacy. Stories of initially skeptical oncologists who become collaborative partners highlight how data, safety, and patient outcomes can open minds and unify the field around what helps patients most. ⏱️ Timestamps 0:00 – Opening quote: chemo, radiation, and cancer stem cells 1:20 – Welcome to Prescribed: where integrative oncology meets holistic healing 2:23 – Introducing Dr. Paul Anderson: scientist, healer, teacher, bridge-builder 4:03 – From lab work and family practice to naturopathic oncology and AAMP 7:40 – Why teaching clinicians may help more patients than any single practice 11:27 – Is cancer “just low T-cells and NK cells”? The complexity of tumor immunology 13:22 – Drawing the tumor microenvironment “chessboard” and its key players 18:14 – How chemo and radiation debulk tumors but can strengthen cancer stem cells 22:25 – Plasticity, reprogramming, and how environment shapes stem-like behavior 28:12 – Three decades of oncology: pediatric and early-onset cancers on the rise 32:33 – Recurrences that look nothing like the original tumor—and why that matters 36:31 – Patients as the first agents of change in integrative cancer care 42:17 – Chronic illness, toxic load, and shared immune terrain with cancer 45:11 – Microbiome, environment, and “farming disease” versus farming health 48:36 – Can you really teach well if you’re not still practicing? 🔔 Subscribe CTA 🔔 Subscribe for more evidence-based conversations on the future of functional medicine. 📚 Resources & Links ▶️ Watch more episodes + full show notes: https://prescribedpodcast.com 🧬 Dr. Paul Anderson’s Website & Teaching Hub: https://draonline.com 📚 Learn more about integrative oncology: https://pre-scribed.com 📞 Schedule a consultation or learn more: https://williamscancerinstitute.com Clinic & Socials Links 🏥 Visit Dr. Goodyear’s clinic: https://www.drgoodyear.com 📸 Follow us on Socials: https://linktr.ee/doctornathangoodyear
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    59 mins
  • The Cancer Cure You're Not Being Told About: Food as Medicine | Jeffrey Smith

    The Cancer Cure You're Not Being Told About: Food as Medicine | Jeffrey Smith
    Dec 4 2025

    📬 Join Dr. Goodyear’s Newsletter ➡️ https://pre-scribed.com/subscribe/ 🎙️ Episode Overview In this urgent and eye-opening episode, Dr. Nathan Goodyear sits down with Jeffrey Smith, founder of the Institute for Responsible Technology and one of the world’s leading consumer advocates on the dangers of GMOs and glyphosate. With decades of research, bestselling books like Seeds of Deception, and globally recognized documentaries like Secret Ingredients, Smith exposes how our modern food system is silently reshaping human health—and our future. From transgenerational infertility to immune collapse and microbiome extinction, this episode explores what’s fueling the surge in modern diseases, especially cancer. Most importantly, it offers tangible solutions. This isn’t just a conversation—it’s a call to action. 📌 Key Takeaways Glyphosate exposure damages multiple generations. Studies on rats show 90% of great-grandchildren suffer serious reproductive and health problems. The microbiome is collapsing. Research shows 25% of infants had zero beneficial bacteria by age 7. Modern agriculture is fueling disease. Industrial farming destroys soil ecosystems and strips food of nutrients. GMOs and Roundup are linked to cancer. Glyphosate is a probable human carcinogen, and removing it from the diet can drastically improve health. Food is medicine—or poison. Nutrition impacts detox pathways, gut health, immune resilience, and genetic expression. Regenerative farming is the cure. It restores soil, nutrient density, and community health from the ground up. Glyphosate is everywhere. It’s found in rain, air, and processed foods—and it cannot be fully avoided. Organic diets reverse chronic illness. Thousands report relief from IBS, fatigue, autism symptoms, and infertility when switching to organic. Most cancer today is terrain-based. It’s not just about genes—it’s about the soil, cells, and systems around them. The solution starts with food. Eating organic, non-GMO, regenerative food is one of the most powerful health tools we have. ⏱️ Timestamps 1:28 - Welcome to Metabolic Health Day Conference 2:24 - The danger of isolated silos in health innovation 3:13 - How industrial agriculture is exporting disease 4:22 - Meet Jeffrey Smith: GMO truth-teller and health advocate 6:42 - How Smith entered the GMO awareness movement 7:33 - The shocking health risks of glyphosate 10:27 - Why Monsanto's trials aren’t telling the whole story 13:15 - Real-world recovery stories from switching to organic 16:03 - Glyphosate’s link to cancer and mitochondrial damage 18:23 - Step-by-step plan to detox your diet 21:14 - Veterinarians and farmers report healing with non-GMO food 24:45 - The generational impact of epigenetics and glyphosate 28:23 - The gut-brain-immune link under attack 32:00 - Soil, plants, and health: the underground crisis 35:17 - Government collusion with chemical agriculture 37:00 - Glyphosate reduces key nutrients for immunity 39:14 - Reproductive health and placenta damage 44:24 - Doctors + farmers = the future of prescriptions 46:07 - True regenerative nutrition explained 50:30 - Why outside voices are vital in health reform 55:07 - Essential resources and action steps for listeners 🔔 Subscribe for more evidence-based conversations on the future of functional medicine. 📚 Resources & Links: ▶️ Watch more episodes + full show notes: https://prescribedpodcast.com 🧬 Jeffrey Smith’s Work: https://responsibletechnology.org 📚 Learn more about integrative oncology: https://pre-scribed.com 📞 Schedule a consultation or learn more: https://williamscancerinstitute.com 🎬 Secret Ingredients film: https://secretingredientsfilm.com 📘 Seeds of Deception: https://seedsofdeception.com 🎥 Don’t Let the Gene Out of the Bottle (short film): https://responsibletechnology.org/dont-let-the-gene-out 🏥 Clinic & Socials Links: 🏥 Visit Dr. Goodyear’s clinic: https://www.drgoodyear.com 📸 Follow us on Socials: https://linktr.ee/doctornathangoodyear
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    58 mins
  • The Soil-Cancer Connection: Why Regenerative Farming May Be the Cure | Gail Fuller

    The Soil-Cancer Connection: Why Regenerative Farming May Be the Cure | Gail Fuller
    Nov 21 2025

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    ➡️ https://pre-scribed.com/subscribe/

    Episode Overview

    In this episode of the Prescribed Podcast, Dr. Nathan Goodyear sits down with regenerative farmer Gail Fuller, founder of Fuller Farms and Fuller Field School in Kansas, to uncover the direct connection between soil health, human health, and rising chronic disease. Gail shares his powerful story of walking away from chemical-dependent, industrial farming—even when it cost him his community and his family’s multigenerational farm—to rebuild a regenerative, diverse, nutrient-dense operation focused on life, not death. Together, he and Dr. Goodyear expose how degraded soil leads to weakened immunity, disrupted gut microbiomes, and increased cancer risk—and how true healing begins with rebuilding the land. This isn’t just a conversation—it’s a call to action to partner with farmers, rebuild local food systems, and rethink prescriptions as pathways to real, lasting health.

    📌 Key Takeaways Farmers are the original doctors of the soil. Soil health determines food quality, immune strength, and disease vulnerability—including cancer. Industrial agriculture disconnects us from food. The shift from “food” to “commodities” made toxic farming practices seem normal and erased the link between land and health. Glyphosate acts like an antibiotic. Its widespread use harms soil life and the gut microbiome—key foundations for immunity and long-term wellness. Cancer is a warning signal. Dr. Goodyear reframes cancer as the “canary in the coal mine,” a sign of broader environmental and biological collapse. Regenerative farming restores life. Gail’s shift from 3,200 chemical-heavy acres to a diversified, regenerative 160-acre farm shows soil can heal—and so can people. The cost of change is real. Gail lost his crop insurance, financial support, and community acceptance when he rejected chemical farming, yet rebuilding saved his health. Doctors can prescribe food, not just pharmaceuticals. Imagine prescriptions directing patients to farmers instead of pharmacies—fueling health rather than disease. Local food systems rebuild communities. Connecting consumers, doctors, and farmers supports rural revival, public health, and long-term resilience. Healing requires nature, not convenience. Moving away from instant gratification and toward intentional investment in real food is essential. The future of healthcare may look like a farm. True healing happens on living soil, in clean air, in natural rhythms—not under fluorescent hospital lights.

    ⏱️ Timestamps

    0:00 – Opening clip: becoming the “odd man out”

    0:30 – Podcast intro: where integrative oncology meets soil health

    1:29 – Why farmers and doctors are uniting at Metabolic Health Day

    2:18 – Meet Gail Fuller: “Soil is the answer”

    4:02 – A real farmer's daily rhythm with sunrise and sunset

    7:04 – The burnout of industrial agriculture

    10:12 – Growing up in conventional farming & the 1980s farm crisis

    14:07 – Learning soil is alive—and how chemicals destroy it

    16:43 – Cancer and wildlife as environmental warning signs

    19:12 – Realizing glyphosate damages soil and the gut microbiome

    24:06 – Losing the farm, community support, and financial backing

    35:24 – Rebuilding on 160 acres with regenerative diversity

    39:31 – Prescribing farmers: shifting from pharmacy to food

    45:22 – America’s addiction to convenience

    49:04 – “Soil is the answer. What is the question?”

    54:17 – Healing happens on farms, not in hospitals

    55:40 – Closing message: heal the land, heal the community, heal yourself

    🔔 Subscribe CTA

    🔔 Subscribe for more evidence-based conversations on the future of functional medicine.

    📚 Resources & Links

    ▶️ Watch more episodes + full show notes: https://prescribedpodcast.com

    🧬 Learn more about Gail Fuller & regenerative farming: https://www.fullerfieldschool.com

    📚 Learn more about integrative oncology: https://pre-scribed.com

    📞 Schedule a consultation or learn more: https://williamscancerinstitute.com

    Clinic & Socials Links

    🏥 Visit Dr. Goodyear’s clinic: https://www.drgoodyear.com

    📸 Follow us on Socials: https://linktr.ee/doctornathangoodyear
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    39 mins
  • Your Food Isn’t What It Used To Be—Here’s Why

    Your Food Isn’t What It Used To Be—Here’s Why
    Nov 7 2025
    📬 Join Dr. Goodyear’s Newsletter ➡️ https://pre-scribed.com/subscribe/ Episode Overview In this powerful conversation, Dr. Nathan Goodyear sits down with Dr. Don M. Huber, Professor Emeritus of Plant Pathology at Purdue University and a pioneering voice on soil health, glyphosate, and agro-ecology. Drawing on five decades of research, Dr. Huber explains how glyphosate functions as both a chelator and an antibiotic, how that impacts nutrient density, plant disease, animal health, and human outcomes—and what practical steps farmers, clinicians, and families can take right now. From re-emerging crop diseases to miscarriages and mitochondrial stress, this episode connects the dots from soil to cell—and offers real-world remediation strategies (including microbial approaches) to help regenerate land and protect health. This isn’t just a conversation—it’s a call to action. 📌 Key Takeaways Glyphosate is a potent mineral chelator. By binding manganese, zinc, iron, and other cations, it reduces plant nutrient uptake and can lower nutrient density across the food chain. Antibiotic effects alter the microbiome. Glyphosate can suppress beneficial microbes and favor pathogens in soil, animals, and potentially the food system, shifting ecological balance. Re-emerging plant diseases are rising. Decades-long field observations link glyphosate exposure with increased severity of fungal and soil-borne diseases in major crops. Nutrient density has declined. Multi-decade comparisons show lower micronutrients in harvests; Dr. Huber outlines mechanisms and field examples (e.g., pumpkins following Roundup Ready corn). Small amounts can matter. Field rates discussed suggest even fractional ounces per acre may impair metal transport—context clinicians should consider when evaluating diet-based deficiencies. Ecology ↔ human health link. The episode explores epidemiologic patterns (e.g., cancer, celiac, autism curves) discussed alongside exposure trends—framed as signals to investigate, not final proofs. Animal health case studies. Dairy and livestock examples (e.g., chronic botulism patterns) illustrate how feed residues and microbiome disruption may impact performance and loss rates. Environmental spillovers. Runoff and waterway eutrophication, algal blooms, and filtration bypass are covered as downstream consequences of broad herbicide use. Regulatory blind spots. The conversation critiques active-ingredient–only assessments and calls for fuller evaluation of adjuvants and formulations. Microbial remediation is promising. Field trials with Lactobacillus (e.g., raw sauerkraut juice/L. plantarum consortia) showed notable reductions in residual glyphosate and yield rebounds. Action steps for clinicians and patients. Prioritize nutrient-dense foods, soil-forward sourcing, and mitigation strategies while advocating for transparent oversight. Heal the land to heal patients. Prevention in oncology begins upstream—support regenerative agriculture as a public-health intervention. ⏱️ Timestamps 0:00 – Episode intro & mission 1:03 – Why healing soil matters for preventing cancer 1:43 – Dr. Don M. Huber: background & career highlights 3:29 – Glyphosate as chelator & antibiotic: the dual mechanism 5:05 – Mineral tie-up: manganese, zinc, iron & nutrient density 8:00 – Microbiome shifts: pathogens vs. beneficials in soil/animals 10:41 – Field observations: re-emerging crop diseases 12:07 – Empty calories problem: 25–75% micronutrient declines discussed 14:06 – Case example: pumpkins after Roundup Ready corn rows 17:00 – Livestock health: miscarriages, deficiencies, and feed quality 18:12 – Sudden Death Syndrome & seed manganese/magnesium note 20:07 – Food safety & exposure patterns: what the data suggest 23:02 – Regulatory conversation: what’s tested—and what isn’t 25:18 – Waterways, eutrophication, and runoff concerns 30:26 – Chronic botulism in dairies: lessons & hypotheses 33:27 – Central America/Sri Lanka case studies: kidney injury & harvest 37:34 – Autism/celiac/IBD curves discussed alongside exposures 40:19 – Practical mitigation on farms (cation “tie-up” workarounds) 41:50 – Microbial remediation: Lactobacillus/sauerkraut juice trials 45:25 – Yield, milk production, and tissue nutrient rebounds 46:12 – Policy outlook: liability shields & constitutional concerns 56:36 – Closing: “heal the land to heal patients” 🔔 Subscribe CTA 🔔 Subscribe for more evidence-based conversations on the future of functional medicine. ▶️ Watch more episodes + full show notes: https://prescribedpodcast.com 🧬 Dr. Don M. Huber’s Research/Info: [Link if available] 📚 Learn more about integrative oncology: https://pre-scribed.com 📞 Schedule a consultation or learn more: https://williamscancerinstitute.com Clinic & Socials Links 🏥 Visit Dr. Goodyear’s clinic: https://www.drgoodyear.com 📸 Follow us on Socials: https://linktr.ee/...
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    57 mins
  • Rejecting Chemo for Alternative Healing: A Stage 3 Cancer Thriver’s Journey | Chris Joseph

    Rejecting Chemo for Alternative Healing: A Stage 3 Cancer Thriver’s Journey | Chris Joseph
    Oct 30 2025

    📬 Join Dr. Goodyear’s Newsletter ➡️ https://pre-scribed.com/subscribe/

    Episode Overview

    At Metabolic Health Day in Tucson, Dr. Nathan Goodyear sits down with Chris Joseph—cancer thriver, author of Life Is a Ride: My Unconventional Journey of Cancer Recovery, and Certified Radical Remission Coach—for a raw, practical roadmap from stage III pancreatic cancer to long-term NED. Chris unpacks how taking the driver’s seat (“be the CEO of your health”), leveraging integrative tools, and building a support team shifted his trajectory when conventional chemo failed. From mistletoe and hyperthermia to mindset, movement, and food, this episode connects real-world choices to outcomes—and pushes clinicians and patients to collaborate better. This isn’t just a conversation—it’s a call to action.

    📌 Key Takeaways

    Be the CEO of your health. Patient-led decision-making changes options, adherence, and outcomes—especially when fear and fatigue dominate early cancer care.

    Chemo isn’t the only lever. When treatment failed and side effects escalated, Chris pivoted to integrative strategies without abandoning science or results.

    Hope is a clinical variable. Restoring agency and purpose improves resilience, decisions, and follow-through across a long journey.

    Metabolic & immune targeting matter. Tools like IV vitamin C, mistletoe, hyperthermia, and low-carb nutrition can support immune function and therapy synergy.

    No magic bullet—stack wins. Progress came from combinations (therapies + lifestyle + mindset), not a single intervention.

    Mindset and support are treatment. Community, coaching, and family support stabilized emotions and sustained behavior change.

    Data-informed, person-specific. What’s “right” depends on the individual—timing, tolerance, comorbidities, logistics, and goals.

    Reframe statistics. Population odds inform risk; individual choices shape the path forward.

    Movement is medicine. Simple, consistent walking delivered zero-cost, high-upside benefits for energy, mood, and metabolism.

    Collaboration over silos. Advocates, physicians, and patients working together reduce confusion and accelerate safer, smarter care.

    🔔 Subscribe for more evidence-based conversations on the future of functional medicine. 📚 Resources & Links: Joseph, C. (2020). Life Is a Ride: My Unconventional Journey of Cancer Recovery. Turner, K. (2014). Radical Remission: Surviving Cancer Against All Odds. Winters, N., & Kelley, J. (2017). The Metabolic Approach to Cancer. ▶️ Watch more episodes + full show notes: https://prescribedpodcast.com 🧬 Chris Joseph – Coaching & Contact: https://terrainnavigators.com | chris@terrainnavigators.com 📚 Learn more about integrative oncology: https://pre-scribed.com 📞 Schedule a consultation or learn more: https://williamscancerinstitute.com Clinic & Socials Links: 🏥 Visit Dr. Goodyear’s clinic: https://www.drgoodyear.com 📸 Follow us on Socials: https://linktr.ee/doctornathangoodyear
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    36 mins
  • Cancer Stem Cells Aren’t “Roots”: The Plasticity Model Explained

    Cancer Stem Cells Aren’t “Roots”: The Plasticity Model Explained
    Sep 26 2025
    📬 Join Dr. Goodyear’s Newsletter ➡️ https://pre-scribed.com/subscribe/ Episode Overview: Cancer stem cells (CSCs) aren’t “fixed roots” you can yank out—they’re shape-shifters. In this solo deep dive, Dr. Nathan Goodyear, MD, MDH, ABAARM, breaks down the pivot from the old rigid tumor hierarchy model to today’s plasticity paradigm, showing how CSCs dynamically reprogram in response to microenvironmental cues and treatment pressure. He maps the evidence timeline (1997 → 2025), explains why the “magic bullet” fails, and outlines multi-axis strategies that target both CSC identities and the reprogramming circuits that let tumors adapt. This isn’t just a conversation—it’s a call to action. 📌 Key Takeaways From fixed to flexible: The field has shifted from a rare, static CSC “root” to dynamic, reprogrammable states across a spectrum. Microenvironment matters: Hypoxia, acidity, immune cells, cytokines (e.g., TGF-β, IL-6) and stromal players drive CSC plasticity; target the neighborhood, not just the “seed.” Therapy pressure reshapes tumors: Surgery, chemo, radiation can unintentionally induce CSC traits, fueling resistance, recurrence, and metastasis. Epigenetic—not just genetic: Rapid phenotypic switching is powered by epigenetic rewiring (transcriptomic/proteomic/metabolic shifts), not necessarily mutations. Parallels across immunity: Macrophages (M1/M2), neutrophils (N1/N2), T cell effector↔regulatory toggling mirror CSC plasticity—biology favors state transitions. EMT ↔ MET as a lever: Epithelial–mesenchymal transitions promote motility, stemness, and therapy escape; reverse transitions enable colonization. Markers aren’t destiny: CSC markers (CD133, CD44, ALDH activity) are heterogeneous and context-dependent; no single marker defines CSCs across cancers. Why “target the root” fails: Eliminate one pool (e.g., LGR5⁺) and redundant or oncofetal programs compensate; blocking reprogramming is essential. Clinical framing: Reimagine cancer as an adaptive ecosystem; use combination/stacked strategies (standard of care + plasticity inhibitors / microenvironmental mods). Actionable shift: Build protocols that measure and modulate inflammation and immune signaling while avoiding one-size-fits-all dosing (precision IV vitamin C is one example of dosing by PK/PD realities). ⏱️ Timestamps 00:00:37 – Cancer stem cells: setting the stage 00:02:12 – CSCs as shape-shifters: plasticity over hierarchy 00:04:08 – Evidence timeline (1997→2025): from hierarchy to plasticity 00:08:03 – The fixed hierarchy model (roots & branches) 00:09:35 – Tumor microenvironment & therapy pressures 00:10:29 – Epigenetic reprogramming & real-time phenotypic switching 00:12:16 – Bidirectional state shifts (CSC ↔ non-CSC; EMT/MET) 00:14:16 – Immune cell plasticity parallels (M1/M2, N1/N2) 00:16:36 – T-cell plasticity: effector ↔ regulatory toggling 00:20:47 – Therapeutic implications: fixed vs plasticity-informed strategies 00:24:34 – CSC markers & caveats (CD133, CD44, ALDH; heterogeneity) 00:27:42 – Beyond the magic bullet: cancer as adaptive ecosystem 00:36:59 – How surgery/chemo/radiation induce CSC traits 00:43:05 – New consensus & multi-axis treatment playbook 🔔 Subscribe for more evidence-based conversations on the future of functional medicine. 📚 Resources & Links: Chosen research thread (ResearchRabbit collection): https://www.researchrabbitapp.com/collection/public/0LJGWQ9PLW Key citations (APA): Dvorak, H. F. (1986). Tumors: Wounds that do not heal. New England Journal of Medicine, 315(26), 1650–1659. Mzoughi, S., Heuberger, J., Schaefer, S. M., Sahu, P., Berger, A. K., … Clevers, H. (2025). Oncofetal reprogramming drives phenotypic plasticity in WNT-driven colorectal cancer. Nature Genetics, 57(2), 299–311. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41588-024-02058 Chaffer, C. L., et al. (2011). Normal and neoplastic nonstem cells can spontaneously convert to a stem-like state. PNAS, 108(19), 7950–7955. Gupta, P. B., et al. (2009). Stochastic state transitions give rise to phenotypic equilibrium in cancer cell populations. Cell. ▶️ Watch more episodes + full show notes: https://prescribedpodcast.com 🧬 Dr. Nathan Goodyear’s work: https://www.drgoodyear.com 📚 Learn more about integrative oncology: https://pre-scribed.com 📞 Schedule a consultation or learn more: https://williamscancerinstitute.com Clinic & Socials Links: 🏥 Visit Dr. Goodyear’s clinic: https://www.drgoodyear.com 📸 Follow us on Socials: https://linktr.ee/doctornathangoodyear
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    49 mins
  • Cancer Stem Cells: From Fixed Roots to Shape-Shifters

    Cancer Stem Cells: From Fixed Roots to Shape-Shifters
    Sep 18 2025

    📬 Join Dr. Goodyear’s Newsletter ➡️ https://pre-scribed.com/subscribe/ Episode Overview In this episode of the Prescribed Podcast, Dr. Nathan Goodyear takes us inside a groundbreaking shift in cancer biology: the move from the old fixed hierarchy model of cancer stem cells (CSCs) to the dynamic plasticity paradigm. Rather than being static “roots” that can simply be cut away, CSCs are revealed as shape-shifters—reprogramming, adapting, and outmaneuvering therapy under environmental and therapeutic pressures. Dr. Goodyear connects the dots between stemness, immune cell plasticity, tumor microenvironments, and treatment resistance, challenging the outdated “magic bullet” paradigm. This isn’t just a conversation—it’s a call to action for rethinking how we design therapies to target cancer’s adaptability at its core. 📌 Key Takeaways Cancer stem cells aren’t fixed roots. They exist on a spectrum of states, able to pivot between stem and non-stem activity. Plasticity defines modern cancer biology. CSCs dynamically adapt their phenotype in response to stressors, environment, and therapies. The classical CSC hierarchy is outdated. The “root-and-branch” model no longer explains tumor complexity. Environmental cues drive stemness. Hypoxia, cytokine signaling, and microenvironment interactions induce stem-like traits. Therapeutic pressure fuels resistance. Surgery, chemo, and radiation trigger CSC reprogramming, enabling relapse and metastasis. Epigenetic reprogramming powers adaptability. CSCs switch phenotypes without changing their DNA code, making them harder to eliminate. CSC plasticity mirrors immune cell behavior. Macrophages, neutrophils, and T cells show similar polarization and state-switching. The magic bullet paradigm is broken. Single-target therapies can’t stop a moving, adaptive cellular ecosystem. Clinical implication: treat the plasticity. Success requires multi-axis therapies that block reprogramming pathways and tumor adaptation. 90% of cancer mortality comes from metastasis. Understanding CSC plasticity is essential for tackling recurrence and spread. ⏱️ Timestamps 0:00 - Episode Intro 0:35 - Cancer stem cells as shape-shifters 1:20 - Old hierarchy model vs. new plasticity model 2:15 - Why targeting CSCs in isolation fails 3:17 - The “root” theory of CSCs explained 4:15 - Tumor heterogeneity and microenvironment dynamics 5:15 - Senescent cells and immune system hijacking 6:12 - The shift from hierarchy to adaptability 7:15 - Therapeutic pressures driving CSC plasticity 8:11 - Epigenetic reprogramming and phenotype switching 9:00 - Immune cell plasticity parallels: macrophages, neutrophils, T cells 10:00 - EMT/MET and metastasis explained 11:00 - Why the magic bullet paradigm fails in cancer 12:12 - New consensus: CSC plasticity as the frontier of cancer biology 13:45 - Call to action and show notes 🔔 Subscribe for more evidence-based conversations on the future of functional medicine. 📚 Resources & Links Mzoughi, S., Heuberger, J., Schaefer, S. M., Pfister, A. S., Sahu, P., Berger, A. K., Vetter, R., Andersson, K., Abarca, A., Kühnemuth, R., Theil, A. F., Dieter, S. M., Diefenbacher, M. E., Tschaharganeh, D. F., & Clevers, H. (2025). Oncofetal reprogramming drives phenotypic plasticity in WNT-driven colorectal cancer. Nature Genetics, 57(2), 299–311. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41588-024-02058 Gupta, P. B., Chaffer, C. L., & Weinberg, R. A. (2009). Cancer stem cells: Mirage or reality? Nature Medicine, 15(9), 1010–1012. https://doi.org/10.1038/nm0909-1010 ResearchRabbit Collection: https://www.researchrabbitapp.com/collection/public/0LJGWQ9PLW ▶️ Watch more episodes + full show notes: https://prescribedpodcast.com 📚 Learn more about integrative oncology: https://pre-scribed.com 📞 Schedule a consultation or learn more: https://williamscancerinstitute.com 🏥 Visit Dr. Goodyear’s clinic: https://www.drgoodyear.com 📸 Follow us on Socials: https://linktr.ee/doctornathangoodyear
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    15 mins
  • Is Less More? The Science of Low-Dose Chemo & Quality of Life in Cancer Care

    Is Less More? The Science of Low-Dose Chemo & Quality of Life in Cancer Care
    Sep 5 2025

    📬 Join Dr. Goodyear’s Newsletter ➡️ https://pre-scribed.com/subscribe/

    Episode Overview

    In this solo episode, Dr. Nathan Goodyear breaks down the science and strategy of Low-Dose Metronomic Chemotherapy (LDM)—and why shifting from maximum-tolerated “warfare” to immune-supportive, precision dosing can change outcomes and quality of life. He distinguishes LDM, fractionated dosing, and ultra-low-dose “immunogenic chemotherapy,” then connects the dots from tumor angiogenesis and the tumor microenvironment to chemo-immunomodulation that turns cold tumors hot. This isn’t just a conversation—it’s a call to action: rethink dosing, protect the immune system, and personalize combination therapy.

    📌 Key Takeaways

    LDM focuses on biology, not brutality. Lower doses given more frequently can maintain antitumor pressure while sparing healthy tissue and immunity.

    Typical LDM ranges ~10–30% of MTD. Above ~50% is not “low-dose” and risks cumulative toxicity similar to full-dose regimens.

    Two core mechanisms drive LDM benefits. Anti-angiogenesis reduces tumor blood-supply growth, and immunomodulation enhances antitumor immunity.

    Ultra-low-dose can be immunogenic. Carefully titrated chemo can trigger immunogenic cell death, DAMP release, dendritic-cell activation, and CD8+ T-cell priming.

    Cold → hot tumor conversion is possible. LDM helps recruit cytotoxic T cells/NK cells and reduce Tregs/MDSCs to enable immune infiltration.

    Chemo sensitivity can be restored. LDM may re-sensitize previously resistant tumors and reduce cancer stem-cell populations.

    Quality of life improves with less toxicity. Evidence cited shows lower grade 3–4 adverse events and comparable disease control to conventional dosing.

    Biomarker to watch: NLR. Tracking the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio can reflect immune status and therapy directionality.

    Microbiome matters. Prolonged/high-dose chemo can damage gut barriers and metabolites; LDM aims to treat without “scorched-earth” effects.

    Best used in combos. LDM pairs with intratumoral therapies, immunotherapy, targeted agents, radiation, metabolic care, and more—by design, not by default.

    ⏱️ Timestamps

    0:00 – Episode intro & mission 0:48 – Why dosing strategy matters (MTD vs. LDM) 2:35 – Defining “low-dose” vs fractionated vs metronomic vs ultra-low 4:15 – What makes chemo immunogenic at lower doses 6:05 – Tumor microenvironment: cold → hot and why it wins 8:15 – Mechanisms: ER stress, DAMPs, dendritic cells, CD8+ priming 10:02 – Anti-angiogenesis as a primary LDM mechanism 12:00 – Immunomodulation: ↓Tregs/MDSCs, ↑CTLs/NK cells 14:00 – NLR as a practical immune biomarker during treatment 16:05 – Clinical evidence: efficacy with fewer severe adverse events 18:30 – Dosing guardrails (10–30%) & avoiding cumulative damage 21:10 – Resensitization, senescence, and cancer stem-cell impact 24:05 – Microbiome considerations & quality-of-life outcomes 27:10 – IPT vs LDM: what changes and what doesn’t 31:20 – Strategic combinations (intratumoral, targeted, IO) 33:55 – When higher dose is briefly necessary (tumor burden logic) 41:45 – Key takeaways & call to action

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    📚 Resources & Links

    Selected citations mentioned (APA style):

    Metronomic chemotherapy: A systematic review of the literature and clinical experience (2018/2019). Systematic review summarizing dosing definitions, mechanisms (anti-angiogenic, immunomodulatory), and clinical outcomes.

    Efficacy and toxicity of metronomic vs conventional-dose chemotherapy for solid tumors: Meta-analysis of randomized trials (2017). Shows comparable efficacy with reduced grade 3–4 adverse events.

    Immunogenic cell death and chemotherapy (review). Describes DAMP release, dendritic-cell activation, and adaptive immune priming mechanisms at lower doses.

    Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio as a prognostic biomarker in oncology (multiple studies). Links NLR to outcomes and treatment monitoring.

    ▶️ Watch more episodes + full show notes: https://prescribedpodcast.com

    🧬 Dr. Nathan Goodyear’s Website: https://www.drgoodyear.com

    📚 Learn more about integrative oncology: https://pre-scribed.com

    📞 Schedule a consultation or learn more: https://williamscancerinstitute.com

    Clinic & Socials Links

    🏥 Visit Dr. Goodyear’s clinic: https://www.drgoodyear.com

    📸 Follow us on Socials: https://linktr.ee/doctornathangoodyear
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    44 mins