Better: Outside the Box Healthcare with Dr. Matt Kettman | Wellness, Longevity, Metabolism, Unconventional Family Doctor

Could You Have an STI and Not Know It? The Truth About Testing, Symptoms, and Prevention | Ep.73

Dr. Rock here.
Today we're tackling a topic that affects millions of people every year but is still surrounded by confusion, misinformation, and stigma: sexually transmitted infections, or STIs.
One of the biggest misconceptions out there? Most STIs don't cause symptoms. In fact, many people who are spreading infections feel completely healthy and have no idea they're infected.
In this episode, we break down:
the difference between STIs and STDs
common infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, HPV, and HIV
which infections are curable and which require lifelong management
warning signs that should prompt testing
why many infections remain completely silent
current testing options and who should consider screening
how vaccines, prevention strategies, and early treatment can reduce long-term health risks
We also discuss HPV-related cancers, herpes myths, HIV prevention with PrEP, and why removing stigma around testing is one of the most important steps in protecting both individual and public health.
The bottom line?
Testing isn't an accusation. It's respect for yourself and for your partners.
The more informed you are, the better equipped you are to make smart decisions about your health.
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Is Your Gut Trying to Tell You Something? IBS, Bloating, Acid Reflux, and Colon Cancer Prevention | Ep. 72

Dr. Rock here.
Dr. Rich Manfready is back for Part 2, and this time we're diving into some of the most common digestive issues people ask about every day.
From bloating and IBS to acid reflux, Crohn's disease, colon cancer screening, and everything in between, we're breaking down what these conditions actually are, why they happen, and what you can do about them.
We get into:
why fiber is so important—and how to increase it without feeling miserable
SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth) and chronic bloating
the connection between gut bacteria and IBS
Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and inflammatory bowel disease
why chronic inflammation matters
gallbladder removal and when it's actually necessary
acid reflux, Barrett's esophagus, and esophageal cancer risk
blood in the stool and when it needs immediate attention
colonoscopies, Cologuard, and current colon cancer screening recommendations
We also talk about pelvic floor dysfunction, bowel motility disorders, and why some digestive issues have more to do with muscles and nerves than the food you're eating.
One of the biggest takeaways?
Many digestive symptoms are treatable, but understanding the root cause matters. Treating symptoms without understanding why they're happening often leads to frustration and recurring problems.
The more you understand your gut, the better equipped you are to protect your long-term health.
Connect with Dr. Manfready:
https://cvdhresearch.com/our-team/ 
Connect with Dr. Rock:
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Is It Shingles? Warning Signs, Treatment, and How to Prevent Long-Term Nerve Pain | Ep. 71

Dr. Rock here.
Today we're tackling two of the most common skin conditions I get questions about in the office: shingles and eczema.
A lot of people have heard of shingles, but they're not always sure what it is, what it looks like, or when it's something that needs immediate treatment. The good news is that early recognition can make a huge difference.
We get into:
what shingles actually is and why it happens years after chickenpox
the warning signs that show up before the rash appears
why shingles usually affects only one side of the body
how early treatment can reduce the risk of long-term nerve pain
when shingles becomes an emergency, especially around the eyes
how antiviral medications like Valtrex work
We also shift gears and talk about eczema, including:
why eczema is more than just dry skin
common triggers that make eczema worse
how to repair the skin barrier and prevent flares
steroid creams, moisturizers, and newer treatment options
One of the biggest takeaways?
Not every rash is the same. Using the wrong treatment can actually make some skin conditions worse, which is why understanding what's causing the rash matters.
The more you know, the faster you can get the right treatment and avoid unnecessary complications.
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How Do You Lead Through Loss? Former Mayor Quentin Hart on Purpose, Resilience, and Service | Ep. 70

Dr. Rock here.
Today I'm sitting down with former Waterloo Mayor Quentin Hart for a conversation about leadership, resilience, service, and what comes next after a major life transition.
Quentin shares his journey from growing up in Waterloo to serving on the city council and ultimately leading the city as mayor for nearly a decade. Along the way, we talk about the lessons he's learned through victories, setbacks, public service, and personal growth.
We get into:
Quentin's path into public service and community leadership
what he learned from losing elections before eventually winning
balancing family, faith, and public life
addressing poverty, food insecurity, and community health
race relations and building trust across different groups
the importance of relationships, bridge-building, and collaboration
his new children's book and passion for developing future leaders
what comes next after leaving elected office
We also discuss health, fitness, community wellness, and why purpose doesn't come from a title or position—it comes from understanding who you are and how you can serve others.
One of my favorite takeaways from this conversation is Quentin's reminder that your purpose isn't tied to a job title. The gifts you've been given go with you wherever you go.
Let's get after it.
Connect with Quentin Hart
Website: Hart Civic Strategies
Book: Mayor Hart's Big Heart
TEDx Talk: Bridging Divides, Building Futures (TEDxUNI)
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Could an Irregular Heartbeat Cause a Stroke? Understanding AFib and Atrial Fibrillation | Ep. 69

Dr. Rock here.
Today we’re breaking down one of the most common heart rhythm problems out there: atrial fibrillation, or AFib.
A lot of people have heard the term before, but they’re not totally sure what it actually means—or why doctors take it so seriously.
So in this episode, I’m explaining what AFib really is, why it happens, and why an irregular heartbeat can increase your risk of stroke if it’s not treated properly.
We get into:
what atrial fibrillation actually does inside the heart
why blood clots can form during AFib
the symptoms people may notice (and why some people feel nothing at all)
how doctors determine stroke risk
the major causes and risk factors behind AFib
how blood thinners like Eliquis and Xarelto help prevent strokes
cardioversion, rhythm control medications, and the Watchman procedure
and why treating things like sleep apnea, weight, blood pressure, and alcohol use matters so much
We also talk about wearable monitors, smart devices that detect irregular rhythms, and why they can be helpful—but don’t replace a real medical evaluation.
Here’s the biggest takeaway:
AFib isn’t dangerous just because your heartbeat feels weird. It’s dangerous because it can silently form clots that travel to the brain and cause devastating strokes.
The good news? We have a lot of effective tools to reduce that risk when people understand what’s going on and get treated early.
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Can Your Gut Affect Your Brain? Parkinson’s Disease, Fiber, and the Gut-Brain Connection | Ep. 68

Dr. Rock here.
Today we’re diving deep into one of the most fascinating areas of modern medicine: the connection between your gut and your brain.
I’m joined by gastroenterologist, researcher, and gut-brain axis expert Dr. Manfready to talk about Parkinson’s disease, the microbiome, inflammation, fiber, and how what’s happening in your digestive system may impact your neurologic health years before symptoms show up.
We get into:
what Parkinson’s disease actually is and why rates are increasing
the surprising connection between gut health and brain disease
how pesticides, herbicides, and environmental toxins may play a role
what the microbiome really does inside your body
why fiber may be one of the most important things you can eat
the science behind the gut-brain axis and mood, inflammation, and hormones
probiotics, stool transplants, and where the research is heading next
We also talk about GLP-1 hormones, Mediterranean-style eating, processed foods, and why modern medicine is paying much more attention to gut health than ever before.
And yeah… we even get into poop transplants 😅
Here’s the deal—there’s still a lot we don’t know. But one thing is becoming more and more clear: what you put into your body matters, and your gut may play a much bigger role in your overall health than we ever realized.
Let’s get after it.
Connect with Dr. Manfready:
https://cvdhresearch.com/our-team/ 
Connect with Dr. Rock:
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Why Does Healthcare Feel So Broken? The Truth About Insurance, Costs, and Modern Medicine | Ep. 67

Dr. Rock here.
Today we’re pulling back the curtain on something almost everybody feels but few people fully understand:
Why does healthcare feel so broken? Why are appointments rushed? Why does insurance deny things your doctor says you need? Why are costs so high even when you have insurance?
In this episode, I’m walking you through what healthcare actually looks like from the doctor’s side of the exam room and why so many patients (and doctors) feel frustrated with the current system.
We get into:
how insurance companies changed modern healthcare
why prior authorizations and denials delay care
how defensive medicine drives up costs and testing
why primary care doctors are burning out
how electronic medical records created new challenges
why visits often feel rushed and fragmented
We also talk about practical ways you can get better care inside the current system—from preparing for appointments and asking better questions to building a relationship with a provider you trust.
Here’s the deal: healthcare isn’t broken because people don’t care. It’s broken because the system was built around bureaucracy, complexity, and economics instead of how real humans actually live.
But the more you understand how the system works, the better you can navigate it for yourself and your family.
Let’s get after it.
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What Are They Not Telling You About Your Food? An Industry Insider Speaks Out | Ep.66

Dr. Rock here. Today… we’re doing something a little different. I’ve got an industry insider in the studio, someone who works inside the processed food world, travels globally, and sees how this stuff is actually made.
And there’s a reason he didn’t want his name attached to this one.
We’re pulling back the curtain on what’s really going on with the food you’re buying and why so many people feel completely different when they leave the U.S.
We get into:
why people often feel better (and even lose weight) outside the U.S.
how processed foods are actually made—and how that changes what your body does with them
the difference between “added sugar” and what he calls created sugar
why breakfast cereals and snack foods may not be what you think they are
what “natural flavors” really means (and how they’re made)
how oils are processed—and what actually matters for your health
We also talk about:
seed oils, oxidation, and what people are getting wrong
organic vs non-organic (and what actually matters most)
GMOs and why the conversation isn’t as simple as it sounds
what he actually feeds his own family
Here’s the deal. You don’t have to be perfect. You don’t have to overhaul your entire life overnight. But if you start understanding what’s really happening behind the scene, you can start making better choices for yourself and your family.
And that’s the goal.
Let’s get after it
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Is Your Heartburn More Serious Than You Think? Acid Reflux, GERD, and When to Worry | Ep.65

Dr. Rock here.
Today we’re talking about something millions of people deal with… and honestly, most people misunderstand it. I’m talking about acid reflux—heartburn—GERD… and what it can turn into if you ignore it.
Now before you panic, let me say this: Most people with reflux are never going to get cancer.
But… this is one of those topics where you need to understand what’s actually going on in your body—because when it does become serious, it matters. So I’m breaking this down in plain English.
We get into:
What acid reflux actually is (and why it happens)
The difference between occasional heartburn and GERD
Why that “burning” feeling is your body telling you something
What Barrett’s esophagus is—and why it matters
How reflux can quietly damage your esophagus over time
When symptoms go beyond heartburn (cough, voice changes, trouble swallowing)
And we talk about the big one:  When reflux could be something more serious… including cancer.
We also cover:
The real risk (and why you shouldn’t panic—but also shouldn’t ignore it)
Who should actually get scoped
Warning signs that need to be checked out ASAP
Lifestyle changes that actually make a difference
When medications like PPIs make sense
If you’ve got occasional heartburn after pizza and beer… okay. But if you’ve got chronic symptoms, food getting stuck, unexplained weight loss, or anything new and different? Don’t just keep popping over-the-counter meds and hoping for the best.
Get it checked out, because your body is trying to tell you something.
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Are You Being Lied to About Your Food? Simple Health Swaps That Actually Work | Ep. 64

We’re back in the studio (aka my house) and I’ve got a fan favorite with me, my wife Chris, back by popular demand. And today? We’re cutting through the noise.
Because let’s be honest… we’re all getting bombarded with: eat this, don’t eat that, more protein, less sugar, avoid this, buy that…And most people? They’re overwhelmed and doing nothing.
So today we’re not doing perfection—we’re talking real-life, no-BS changes that actually make a difference.
We get into:
Why a lot of what we’re eating is straight-up misleading
How to read food labels without getting tricked
The truth about “protein” foods, “zero sugar,” and “light” products
Why most protein bars are basically candy bars
What’s actually worth buying organic (and what’s not)
Easy swaps that save you money and make you healthier
And yeah… we go there:
Processed cheese? Not cheese
Deli meat? Not what you think
Sugary drinks? Gotta go
Your Keurig? Might be time to break up 
We also talk about:
Making your own food (way easier than you think)
Simple grocery store strategies that don’t break the bank
Cutting back on chemicals in your home and on your body
Why small changes beat doing everything all at once
Here’s the deal. You don’t have to flip your entire life upside down overnight.
But if you start paying attention, start reading labels, and start making a few better choices…
That’s how you take control of your health.
Recipe's and Products:
Ceramic Pour-Over: Noarixa Pour Over
Ranch Dressing: Facebook Post
Laundry Detergent:
2 parts washing soda
2 parts borax
1 part salt
Use white vinegar as a natural fabric softener
Dishwasher Detergent:
2 parts sodium carbonate
2 parts sodium percarbonate
1 part sodium citrate
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