Join Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP, and co-host Mikayla Wachsmann, MS, CNS, as they decode complex genetics into practical, actionable strategies for health, performance, and longevity. Each episode bridges the gap between clinical data and real-world results, breaking down the specific genes and pathways that actually matter—without the hype or technical noise. Whether you are working to shift your own health trajectory or you're a practitioner seeking clearer communication and better clinical outcomes, this show gives you the frameworks to make DNA truly usable. Stop guessing. Start decoding.
FitgenesUSA
Claim This Podcastby FitgenesPodcast
5.0(3 reviews)
7 episodes
Updated Daily
Accepts GuestsHas SponsorsLocation 🇺🇸
Podcast Overview
Join Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP, and co-host Mikayla Wachsmann, MS, CNS, as they decode complex genetics into practical, actionable strategies for health, performance, and longevity. Each episode bridges the gap between clinical data and real-world results, breaking down the specific genes and pathways that actually matter—without the hype or technical noise. Whether you are working to shift your own health trajectory or you're a practitioner seeking clearer communication and better clinical outcomes, this show gives you the frameworks to make DNA truly usable. Stop guessing. Start decoding.
Language
🇺🇲
Publishing Since
6/23/2026
Reach the team behind FitgenesUSA
Verified contact details for this show aren't on file yet — sign up to get notified when they land.
Recent Episodes
July 28, 2026
Why You're Always Inflamed (And What Your Genes Have to Do With It)
<p>Do you feel stiff, achy, or completely wiped out by minor daily stressors, poor sleep, or a single less-than-perfect meal?</p><p><br></p><p>It’s not just a sign of getting older: it’s an evolutionary mismatch hardcoded into your DNA.</p><p><br></p><p>Join your host, Genetics Expert and International Fitgenes Educator & Trainer <strong>Dr. Sam Shay</strong>, DC, FMCP, alongside co-host <strong>Mikayla Wachsmann</strong>, MS, CNS, and Lily, his "Frenchie" (who is busy enjoying a studio spa day).</p><p><br></p><p>In this episode, we break down why being a "hyper-inflamer" was once a literal lifesaver for hunter-gatherers but has become a modern-day recipe for chronic illness. We explore how a core cluster of 16 genes dictates how your body reacts to the modern "inflammatory soup" of processing foods, pollution, and doom scrolling.</p><p><br></p><p>In this episode, we cover:</p><ul><li><strong>The Hunter-Gatherer Superpower:</strong> Why a hyper-inflammatory response was essential for surviving prehistoric animal wounds, but why that same genetic trait leaves you defenseless against modern environmental insults.</li><li><strong>The Three Phases of the Fire:</strong> How your specific genes control the spark (Initiation via IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-alpha), the bonfire (Propagation via IL-8, IL-18, and COX), and whether you have a fire truck or a squirt gun to put it out (Extinguishing via IL-10).</li><li><strong>The Inflammatory Weight Loop:</strong> Why highly inflammatory genetic profiles cause people to rapidly balloon with inflammatory water weight from eating half a muffin, and the silver lining of how to drop it just as fast.</li><li><strong>Nutritional vs. Nutrigenomic Dosing:</strong> Why standard supplement guidelines fail to move the needle, and how hitting higher therapeutic thresholds (like over 2 grams of combined EPA/DHA fish oil) actually rewrites your cellular machinery instead of just adding a patch.</li><li><strong>The Ultimate Anti-Inflammatory Levers:</strong> The incredible genetic power of Sulforaphane (broccoli sprout extract) and SOD (Superoxide Dismutase) inducers like zinc and curcumin to help douse chronic cellular flames.</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Subscribe today and share this episode with anyone who feels like they have the joints of an 80-year-old. Every 5-star rating helps others find this show and unlock the power of their own genetic blueprint.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Connect with Dr. Sam:</strong></p><ul><li>IG: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/fitgenesusa/">https://www.instagram.com/fitgenesusa/</a></li><li>W: <a href="http://www.fitgenesusa.com">www.fitgenesusa.com</a></li></ul><p><br></p><p><strong>Are you a health practitioner ready to decode your patients' genetics and offer truly personalized, root-cause care?</strong></p><p><br></p><p>Elevate your practice by heading over to <a href="https://FitgenesUSA.com">https://FitgenesUSA.com</a> today to become a certified practitioner and gain access to our advanced genetic testing and clinical support.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>TIMESTAMPS:</strong></p><ul><li>0:00 - Intro: Decoding Your DNA</li><li>0:51 - Welcome & Genetics/Inflammation</li><li>1:20 - Inflammation: Genetic View</li><li>2:02 - Hunter-Gatherers vs Today</li><li>3:50 - Survival vs Chronic Illness</li><li>6:25 - Environmental Triggers</li><li>8:13 - What is Chronic Inflammation?</li><li>10:33 - Dr. Sam’s Story</li><li>11:38 - Brain & Gut-Brain Axis</li><li>13:54 - Top 15-16 Inflammatory Genes</li><li>18:24 - Red, Yellow, Green Dots</li><li>22:32 - The 3 Fire Stages</li><li>25:31 - Risk Profiles</li><li>29:05 - Blueprint Data to Action</li><li>33:40 - Targeted Interventions</li><li>35:38 - Nutrigenomic Dosing</li><li>38:51 - Key Compounds</li><li>43:01 - Water Weight & Lifestyle</li><li>47:09 - Summary & Advice</li></ul><p><br></p><p><strong>DISCLAIMER:</strong><br>The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, cures or treatment. Neither Dr. Sam nor the publisher of this content takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person or persons reading or following the information in this educational content. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, supplement routine, or overall health plan based on genetic information or podcast discussions. Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP is the founder of and has a direct financial interest in FitgenesUSA testing, the Fitgenes Genetic Blueprint, and the CarbChoice Advanced.</p>
July 21, 2026
Why Coffee Makes You Anxious (It Could Be Your Genes)
<p>Do you feel jittery, anxious, or completely wiped out after a single cup of coffee?</p><p><br></p><p>It’s not just in your head—it’s in your genes.</p><p><br></p><p>Join your host, Genetics Expert and International Fitgenes Educator & Trainer<strong> Dr. Sam Shay</strong>, DC, FMCP, alongside co-hosts <strong>Mikayla Wachsmann</strong>, MS, CNS, and<strong> Lily</strong>—his "Frenchie."</p><p><br></p><p>We break down the "depression combo punch" of caffeine sensitivity. We explore how specific variations in your ADORA2A, CYP1A2, and COMT genes dictate whether coffee gives you a clean energy boost or traps your brain in a state of exhausting hyperarousal.</p><p><br></p><p>We’ll look at real-life case studies and provide actionable, nutritional workarounds to help you clear caffeine faster and reclaim your calm.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>IN THIS EPISODE, WE COVER:</strong></p><ul><li>The "Sleepy Buttons": How the ADORA2A gene controls your adenosine receptors, and why caffeine jams those signals (leaving the "brakes" off your brain).</li><li>The Liver's Cleanup Crew: Why the CYP1A2 gene determines if you are a "fast" or "slow" metabolizer—and why slow metabolizers stay wired for 8+ hours.</li><li>The Stress Pileup: The role of the COMT gene in clearing out adrenaline and dopamine, and how a slow COMT creates the ultimate anxiety storm.</li><li>Nutritional Hacks: How eating cruciferous vegetables (like broccoli and Brussels sprouts) can speed up your body's caffeine clearance.</li><li>Practical Q&A: Mikayla asks Dr. Sam how to regulate bowel motility and find pre-workout energy without relying on heavy stimulants.</li></ul><p><br></p><p>If this episode made you rethink your relationship with coffee, hit subscribe and share it with your favorite caffeine addict. Your genes—and your friends—will thank you.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>CONNECT WITH DR. SAM</strong></p><ul><li>IG: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/fitgenesusa/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">@fitgenesusa</a></li><li>W: <a href="https://www.fitgenesusa.com" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">FitgenesUSA</a></li></ul><p><br></p><p>Are you a health practitioner ready to decode your patients' genetics and offer truly personalized, root-cause care?<br></p><p>Elevate your practice by heading over to <a href="https://FitgenesUSA.com" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">FitgenesUSA.com</a> today to become a certified practitioner and gain access to our advanced genetic testing and clinical support.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>TIME STAMPS</strong></p><ul><li>0:00 - Intro</li><li>1:03 - The truth about caffeine sensitivity</li><li>5:16 - Caffeine-induced anxiety and depression</li><li>13:33 - Understanding genetics: The traffic light system</li><li>20:26 - ADORA2A: The brain's "sleepy buttons"</li><li>24:52 - CYP1A2: The liver's cleanup crew</li><li>26:41 - COMT: Adrenaline, dopamine, and the anxiety storm</li><li>32:27 - Managing coffee quality, timing, and volume</li><li>35:32 - Foods that speed up vs. slow down caffeine detox</li><li>43:00 - How Magnesium Threonate calms a slow COMT gene</li><li>47:44 - Coffee alternatives and Swiss Water decaf</li><li>57:08 - Q&A: Why coffee makes you poop and the "Poop Stack"</li><li>1:03:25 - Q&A: Getting pre-workout energy without stimulants</li><li>1:09:22 - Delaying morning coffee for better circadian rhythms</li></ul><p><br></p><p><strong>DISCLAIMER</strong></p><p>The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, cures or treatment. Neither Dr. Sam nor the publisher of this content takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person or persons reading or following the information in this educational content. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, supplement routine, or overall health plan based on genetic information or podcast discussions. Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP is the founder of and has a direct financial interest in FitgenesUSA testing, the Fitgenes Genetic Blueprint, and the CarbChoice Advanced.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>REFERENCES:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://worldpopulationreview.com/country-rankings/which-country-eats-the-most-chocolate" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">World Population Review: Which Country Eats the Most Chocolate?</a></li><li><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12825092/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Clinical Study: Association between ADORA2A polymorphisms and caffeine-induced anxiety</a></li><li><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29282363/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Clinical Study: CYP1A2 polymorphism and caffeine metabolism adaptations</a></li><li><a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6439088/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Clinical Study: Impact of ADORA2A variations on depression and symptoms</a></li></ul>
July 14, 2026
Meet Your Co-Host Mikayla: From Intern to Precision Genomics Expert
<p>What if your genes aren't a scary, fixed destiny, but a highly personalized owner's manual waiting to be decoded?</p><p><br></p><p>Join your host, Genetics Expert and International Fitgenes Educator & Trainer Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP, alongside co-hosts Mikayla Wachsmann, MS, CNS, and Lily—his "Frenchie." Get an inside look into Mikayla's journey from Dr. Sam’s very first intern to running a fully remote telemedicine practice.</p><p><br></p><p>Long before launching her practice, Mikayla was working side-by-side with Dr. Sam, digitally hand-assembling the complex data that eventually evolved into today's premier Fitgenes Genetic Blueprints. Now, she is stepping out from behind the Zoom screen and into the studio to share how she helps clients transition from standard, frustrating "one-size-fits-all" advice to true precision nutrition and lifestyle optimization.</p><p><br></p><p>Together, this dynamic clinical duo reunites to break down the cutting-edge world of functional genomics, giving you the ultimate owner's manual for your unique biology.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>In this episode, we will cover:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>The Pivot to Precision:</strong> Mikayla shares her personal "why"—from losing her father to brain cancer as an infant to navigating her own severe gut issues using the Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM) matrix.</li><li><strong>Demystifying Functional Genomics:</strong> Why the Fitgenes Genetic Blueprint is a tool to uncover your body's unique strengths and vulnerabilities, rather than a deterministic diagnosis.</li><li><strong>The Histamine Protocol:</strong> Why healthy "superfoods" like sauerkraut and avocados can cause an overflow in your "histamine bucket," leading to mysterious midsection water weight, morning congestion, hives, digestive issues and migraines.</li><li><strong>The 80/20 Solution:</strong> A realistic, judgment-free coaching strategy to manage a low-histamine lifestyle without sacrificing your absolute favorite foods.</li><li><strong>Overcoming "Metabolic Barbed Wire":</strong> How secondary, acquired stressors—like gut infections, mold, or nervous system dysregulation—wrap around your genes, block their expression, and cause weight or energy plateaus.</li></ul><p><br></p><p><strong>Connect with Mikayla:</strong><br>• IG: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mw.clinicalnutrition" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">@mw.clinicalnutrition</a><br>• W: <a href="https://www.mw-nutrition.com" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">MW-Nutrition.com</a></p><p><strong>Connect with Dr. Sam:</strong><br>• IG: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/fitgenesusa/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">@fitgenesusa</a><br>• W: <a href="https://www.fitgenesusa.com" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">FitgenesUSA.com</a></p><p><br></p><p>Are you a health practitioner ready to decode your patients' genetics and offer truly personalized, root-cause care? Elevate your practice by heading over to <a href="https://www.fitgenesusa.com" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">FitgenesUSA.com</a> today to become a certified practitioner and gain access to our advanced genetic testing and clinical support.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Subscribe & Review:</strong><br>If you loved this episode, please subscribe, share and leave a review. Every 5-star rating helps others find this show and unlock the power of their own genetic blueprint. We have incredible episodes coming up covering caffeine sensitivity, inflammation management, workout recovery, and so much more.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>TIME STAMPS</strong></p><ul><li>0:00 - Intro: Mikayla Wachsmann</li><li>1:33 - Mikayla's Journey & Mentorship</li><li>5:47 - Genetics vs Functional Guide</li><li>7:30 - Gut Issues & Root Cause Care</li><li>10:48 - Remote Telemedicine Practice</li><li>13:23 - Histamine Intolerance Signs</li><li>16:39 - Gut Infections & DNA Data</li><li>21:12 - Acne, Bloating & Carb Choice</li><li>24:32 - Wounded Healer & Mold Journey</li><li>30:39 - Ideal Clients & Lab Testing</li><li>36:17 - Outro & Closing Message</li></ul><p><br></p><p><strong>DISCLAIMER</strong><br>The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, cures or treatment. Neither Dr. Sam nor the publisher of this content takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person or persons reading or following the information in this educational content. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, supplement routine, or overall health plan based on genetic information or podcast discussions. Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP is the founder of and has a direct financial interest in FitgenesUSA testing, the Fitgenes Genetic Blueprint, and the CarbChoice Advanced.</p>
7 total episodes available
Deep-dive analytics for FitgenesUSA
Frequently asked questions
Have a different question and can't find the answer you're looking for? Reach out to our support team by sending us an email and we'll get back to you as soon as we can.
- What is FitgenesUSA?
- How often does this podcast release new episodes?
This podcast updates daily.
- Where can I listen to this podcast?
This podcast is available on 4 platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more. You can also use the RSS feed directly.
- Does this podcast accept guests?
Information about guest appearances is not available.
Legal Disclaimer
Pod Engine is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or officially connected with any of the podcasts displayed on this platform. We operate independently as a podcast discovery and analytics service.
All podcast artwork, thumbnails, and content displayed on this page are the property of their respective owners and are protected by applicable copyright laws. This includes, but is not limited to, podcast cover art, episode artwork, show descriptions, episode titles, transcripts, audio snippets, and any other content originating from the podcast creators or their licensors.
We display this content under fair use principles and/or implied license for the purpose of podcast discovery, information, and commentary. We make no claim of ownership over any podcast content, artwork, or related materials shown on this platform. All trademarks, service marks, and trade names are the property of their respective owners.
While we strive to ensure all content usage is properly authorized, if you are a rights holder and believe your content is being used inappropriately or without proper authorization, please contact us immediately at hey@podengine.ai for prompt review and appropriate action, which may include content removal or proper attribution.
By accessing and using this platform, you acknowledge and agree to respect all applicable copyright laws and intellectual property rights of content owners. Any unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or commercial use of the content displayed on this platform is strictly prohibited.