In this episode of Skincredible, Dr. Lisa Swanson sits down with ER physician and climate health advocate Dr. Ethan Sims for an engaging, wide-ranging conversation that connects climate change directly to human health—right here in Idaho and across the globe.

They kick things off with lighthearted “two likes and two dislikes” (including a surprising anti-chocolate stance and a shared love of dogs), before diving into the serious reality that climate change is not just an environmental issue—it’s a healthcare issue.

Dr. Sims shares how a smoky, record-breaking summer sparked his journey into climate advocacy and walks listeners through the many ways climate change is already affecting our bodies. From extreme heat—which doesn’t just cause heat stroke but worsens heart disease, kidney disease, and even increases rates of violence—to intensifying storms that leave long-term mental health scars, this episode unpacks how environmental shifts ripple through every aspect of health.

They explore worsening air quality and the hidden dangers of microscopic pollutants. The conversation also covers the spread of mosquito-borne illnesses into new regions, the growing threat of water scarcity in the Mountain West, and how changing environments may be contributing to the rise in autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.

Beyond the challenges, Dr. Swanson and Dr. Sims highlight solutions—from improving indoor air quality and reducing food waste at home to rethinking healthcare practices that contribute significantly to carbon emissions. They discuss practical changes already making a difference, like switching anesthetic gases, reducing medical waste, and simple energy-saving strategies within hospitals. The episode also touches on innovative (and sometimes imperfect)—emphasizing that there is no single fix, but rather millions of “small buttons” we can all push.

Blending science, personal stories, humor, and actionable insights, this conversation balances honest discussion of risks with a sense of empowerment. The takeaway: while the problem is big, meaningful change starts with awareness, conversation, and everyday action.

Because when it comes to the future of our health—and our planet—we’re choosing hope.

Keywords

Dermatology, climate change, health, environment, wildfire, heat, medical impacts, sustainability, public health, Idaho, global warming, human health, air quality, extreme weather, infectious diseases, regenerative agriculture, cloud seeding, water scarcity, mental health, autoimmune diseases climate change, carbon removal, regenerative farming, seaweed farms, carbon capture, sustainability, environmental solutions, healthcare sustainability, climate tech, individual action

Links, Attachments

What you can do according to Project Drawdown

Chapters

00:00 Intro and Welcome

01:19 2 Likes 2 Dislikes

11:40 How Climate Change Impacts Health

12:57 How Dr. Sims Got Interested in Climate

15:33 Age 47.3 is the Unhappiest?

21:00 Heat, Exposure and Violent Crimes

23:00 Extreme Weather

25:00 Chronic Mental Health Impacts

26:00 Least Vulnerable Places

27:45 Air Quality, Filtration

32:15 Mosquitoborne Illnesses

34:20 Water Scarcity, Desertification

39:00 Cloud Seeding

41:00 Regenerative Agriculture

43:00 Autoimmune & Inflammatory Diseases

47:22 Carbon Emissions

56:30 Electric Cars

57:00 Action is the Antidote to Despair

01:00:00 Hospital Efforts

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The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult your physician regarding your health.

In this episode of the Skincredible podcast, we dive deep into the world of GLP-1 and GIP medications with a Boise-based family medicine physician and clinical pharmacist. If you’ve been hearing nonstop about Ozempic, Wegovy, Zepbound, “weight loss shots,” or even pills, this is your medically grounded guide to what’s real, what’s hype, and some of what you need to know.

We break down how GLP-1 receptor agonists work for weight loss, including appetite suppression, delayed gastric emptying, and their effects on the brain’s reward system. You’ll learn the differences between semaglutide vs tirzepatide, pill vs injection options, and why some medications may be more effective or better tolerated than others.

We also cover:

• Common GLP-1 side effects (nausea, constipation, diarrhea, heartburn)
• The truth about muscle loss, hair loss, and nutrition
• Microdosing GLP-1s—does it work or is it just a trend?
• The risks of compounded medications and online “GLP alternatives”
• How to safely access these medications through proper medical care
• Insurance coverage, cost breakdowns, and why prices vary so much
• Mental health considerations, including depression and mood changes
• Why feeling hungry is normal—and necessary—even on GLP-1s

We also tackle bigger-picture topics like:

• Is GLP-1 use changing beauty standards and body image culture?
• Why obesity is a chronic medical condition—not a personal failure
• The stigma around using weight loss medications
• What happens after you reach your goal weight (maintenance dosing)

Whether you’re considering GLP-1 therapy, taking it, know someone who is, or just trying to understand the buzz, this episode gives you expert insight, practical advice, and honest conversation about one of the most talked-about topics in modern medicine.

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The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult your physician regarding your health.

In this heartfelt and candid episode of Skincredible, we meet six-year-old Ryder and his dad, Chris, as they share their family’s real-life journey with molluscum—one that many parents quietly navigate but rarely talk about aloud.

What began as just a few itchy bumps on Ryder quickly turned into more and more bumps. As the spots spread, so do the challenges: discomfort, uncertainty, and the social impact of visible skin changes. Ryder opens up about feeling embarrassed at school and unsure of what to say when classmates noticed his bumps in preschool—an experience many kids can relate to but struggle to express.

Chris shares the family’s perspective from the early days of confusion (“What are these bumps?”) through the emotional and practical considerations of whether to treat or wait it out. Like many parents, they initially chose a watch-and-wait approach, only to reconsider as the molluscum multiplied, became more bothersome, and began affecting Ryder’s confidence and daily life.

The episode walks through their treatment journey—from limited success with early therapy to the introduction of a newer option, a nitric oxide–releasing gel (Zelsuvmi). Chris describes the turning point: visible improvement within days, a simple at-home routine, and manageable side effects like mild stinging and redness. Along the way, the family developed their own coping strategies—like Ryder’s “run a lap” trick to handle brief discomfort after application.

Beyond the clinical side, this episode highlights the emotional weight molluscum can carry for both kids and parents. From avoiding certain social situations to navigating concerns about contagion and visibility, Chris shares how it impacted their family’s routines—and how meaningful it was to return to normal once Ryder’s skin cleared.

The story ends on a joyful note: Ryder’s bumps are gone, his confidence is back, and the milestone is celebrated the way any six-year-old would want—with cupcakes, cookies, and a well-earned sense of victory.

Listeners will walk away with:

• A relatable, real-world look at how molluscum can evolve over time
• Insight into the decision-making process between waiting vs. treating
• Practical tips for applying topical treatments and managing side effects
• Guidance on supporting kids emotionally through visible skin conditions
• Encouragement to seek help and explore options that fit your family’s needs

Keywords

Dermatology, molluscum, zelsuvmi, imiquimod, skin conditions, kids, pediatric dermatology, parenting kids with skin conditions, contagious bumps, molluscum contagiosum

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction & Welcome

02:00 - When Ryder first noticed molluscum bumps

03:00 - Social impact of molluscum for Ryder

04:00 - Parents start to consider whether or not to treat

05:00 - No one is bragging about molluscum

06:25 - When the family decided to treat

07:35 - Treating with Imiquimod

08:40 - Experience with Zelsuvmi

11:40 - Tips for other families, redness, stinging

14:22 - Managing the side effects: stinging and redness tips

13:20 - Celebrating molluscum treatment success

15:50 - Going back to school after treatment

19:40 - Advice for other kids

20:30 - Deciding to treat after watching molluscum

22:00 - Molluscum in pools, swimming

23:39 - Ryder changes due to molluscum

24:42 - Chris’ advice for other parents

25:00 - Thank you and Goodbye

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The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult your physician regarding your health.

In this powerful episode of the Skincredible Podcast, Dr. Swanson sits down with Eli and his mom, Michelle, for a deeply personal conversation about living with eczema (atopic dermatitis) and molluscum contagiosum—and how chronic skin conditions impact not just one person, but an entire family.

Eli bravely shares his journey through the physical discomfort and emotional challenges of eczema, from persistent itching and flare-ups to navigating school, confidence, and daily life. Michelle opens up about the family’s experience from a parent’s perspective, including the opinions of many people on how Eli should be medically treated, and finally the hope that came with real improvement. This episode is ultimately about resilience, support, and transformation. Together, they reveal how eczema doesn’t just affect the individual—it ripples through siblings, routines, sleep, and family dynamics.

Whether you’re dealing with eczema flare-ups, searching for eczema treatment options, or looking for real-life stories about living with eczema, this conversation offers honesty, hope, and connection.

Topics covered include:

• Living with eczema as a child and teen
• Molluscum contagiosum (briefly)
• Emotional impact of chronic skin conditions
• Family life with eczema
• Parenting a child with eczema
• Eczema treatment journey and breakthroughs
• How skin health affects mental health

Keywords

eczema, atopic dermatitis, eczema treatment, eczema relief, eczema flare up, itchy skin, dry skin, molluscum contagiosum, pediatric eczema, eczema healing journey, skin condition support, family health, dermatologist advice, eczema before and after, real eczema stories, beetle juice, cantharadin, wet wraps

Chapters

00:00 Welcome, Intro to Eli

01:30 Purpose of Having Families on Skincredible

02:15 Eli’s Eczema History

04:30 Emotionoal & Financial Cost of Eczema

07:00 Medication Safety Warnings

11:00 Hardest Parts of Eczema

15:00 Anxiety, Depression & Eczema

16:20 Molluscum & Beetle Juice

22:00 The Mystery of Eczema Flare Ups

24:30 Family and Other Opinions

26:17 Moving Around the World

28:00 Best and Worst Places for Eli’s Eczema

30:00 Explanation and Breakdown of Therapies

34:00 Urticarial Reaction to Nemluvio

36:00 Weighing Shot vs. Pill Options

38:00 Starting Rinvoq (upadacitinib) Pills

42:00 Feeling “Ready” For Certain Therapies

44:00 Trickle Down Healthcare

51:00 Eli’s Itch Free Life

52:40 Don’t Lose Hope

55:00 A Force for Good

58:45 Thank You & Goodbye

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The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult your physician regarding your health.

In this episode, Dr. Swanson talks to Dr. Marc Serota about everything from allergies to magic. Dr. Marc Serota is triple board-certified in dermatology, pediatrics, and allergy & immunology (bonus: he’s a magician, too). He practices in Littleton, Colorado. When you listen to this episode, you will learn about what’s behind food allergies, eczema, and the advances transforming pediatric allergy treatment today. Dr. Serota shares insights into immune system mysteries, early interventions, most common food allergies in children (milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, soy, wheat, fish, and sesame) and how early exposure can actually build tolerance, lowering lifelong allergy risks. Dr. Sarota explains why certain foods like egg and milk tend to be outgrown, while nuts and shellfish often persist, and he also emphasizes the importance of accurate allergy diagnosis—reminding us that testing is just one piece of a bigger story. You’ll uncover the truth about false positives in allergy testing, the role of history in diagnosis, and why routine panels can mislead families. Plus, get expert strategies on managing eczema and food allergy relationships, including how cutting-edge biologics like Dupixent are revolutionizing early treatment. Join us for an exploration of how targeting immune pathways early could change the trajectory of allergic disease, plus practical tips on emergency epinephrine use, what’s been tested regarding expired EpiPens, and why aggressive early intervention isn’t just about skin—it's about shaping lifelong health. Whether you're a parent concerned about food allergies, a healthcare professional seeking the latest insights, or simply curious about how modern allergy science can alter futures, this episode is your guide. Tune in for a dose of medical mastery, magic tricks, and hope for healthier futures.

Keywords

Dermatology, Allergies, Immunology, Dupixent, Allergist, Dermatologist, Pediatrician, Children, Pediatric, Peanuts, Epi Pen, Eczema, Rash, Milk Allergy, Egg Allergy, Tree Nut Allergy, Peanut Allergy, Shellfish Allergy, Soy Allergy, Wheat Allergy, Fish Allergy, Sesame Allergy, Food Intolerance, Food Avoidance

Chapters

00:00 Welcome and Introduction to Dr. Marc Serota

4:00 Magic in Vegas or Medicine?

5:30 Soccer, College & Medical School in 6 Years

7:15 Kansas City Chiefs, World Cup

8:00 Pediatrics, Dermatology, Allergy & Immunology

9:00 The Big Nine Allergies

11:00 Most Common Signs of Allergies or Intolerance

13:00 Typical Timing for Reactions

14:00 Introducing Allergic Foods

16:30 Outgrowing Allergies

18:00 High False Positive in Allergy Testing

20:00 Can Food Allergies be Passed Down

21:00 Oral Immunotherapy

23:00 Xolair

25:20 The Use of Epi Pens

28:00 Nasal Spray Neffy

29:00 Food Allergy & Eczema

32:45 Babies and Bloody Stools, Dairy Protein Sensitivity

36:00 Treatment of Eczema and Skin Barrier Repair

37:00 Atopic March: Eczema, Asthma, Allergies, EoE

39:20 Developing Immune Systems, Early Treatment

40:55 Helping Quality of Life & Development

43:00 Cumulative Life Course Impairment

44:15 Fear About Treatments

49:30 Rapid Fire Round

54:55 Thank You & Goodbye

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The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult your physician regarding your health.

Molluscum contagiosum is one of the most common viral skin conditions in children — but a diagnosis can still leave parents full of questions. In this episode of Skincredible, Dr. Lisa Swanson, board-certified pediatric dermatologist, speaks with a family who navigated the molluscum journey firsthand.

Through Grace and Max's story, you'll get an honest look at what life with molluscum really looks like: the initial confusion, the emotional weight, the social questions kids face, and the path toward treatment and resolution. Though patients and their parents aren’t responsible for the insurance journey when seeking coverage for therapy, we discuss how helpful it was for Grace & Max’s mom and dad to stay involved and advocate on behalf of their children when it came to coverage. This ultimately made a positive difference in outcome and they do not regret the amount of time and energy this took.

Key Takeaways:

• Molluscum contagiosum is common, contagious, and generally harmless — but can last longer than expected
• You do NOT have to treat molluscum, but if you decide to, open communication with a dermatology provider makes a significant difference
• Children can learn to discuss their condition with peers confidently
• You are not alone — and treatment is available for those who would like it

Keywords

molluscum contagiosum, molluscum treatment, pediatric skin conditions, molluscum contagiosum family, dermatologist, skincare, skin virus, parenting, zelsuvmi, imiquimod, cimetidine, Candida

Chapters

00:00 Welcome and Introduction

01:20 Grace Gets Molluscum

03:00 Molluscum Journey Length

04:23 How Grace Handled Questions

05:40 Changes In Habits or Schedule with Molluscum

08:11 The Spread of Molluscum

09:00 Imiquimod for Molluscum

11:00 Cimetidine

12:30 KOH- Potassium Hydroxide

15:44 Zelsuvmi

17:30 Dad Gets Involved in Insurance Struggles

25:00 Zelsuvmi Application

29:00 Max Gets Molluscum

31:00 Other Kids Asking About Molluscum

32:25 Candida Injections

36:0 Advice for Other Parents

37:40 Max’s Advice for Other Kids & Goodbye

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The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult your physician regarding your health.

Welcome to our latest episode of the Skincredible podcast, where we dive into the often misunderstood world of molluscum contagiosum treatments. Dr. Swanson breaks down how molluscum affects patients and the various treatment options available. Make sure to listen to our molluscum episode first, if you haven’t already!

Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection that leads to the appearance of small, raised bumps on the skin. While these bumps may seem alarming, they typically resolve on their own in a period ranging from two to three years. Many parents find this timeline concerning, prompting them to seek treatment options to expedite the process. Dr. Swanson emphasizes that, while treatment is not mandatory, it is available for those who prefer not to wait for spontaneous resolution.

During the episode, Dr. Swanson outlines all the treatment paths for molluscum. She details both topical remedies, in-office treatments, and one oral treatment option, noting that the goal of some treatments is to engage the immune system to recognize and combat the virus. Here are some of the main categories of treatment discussed:

Topical: OTC naturals like tea tree oil, prescription Retinoids, Imiquimod, KOH, Zelsuvmi

In Office: Bettlejuice (cantheradin), liquid nitrogen, candida antigen, curettage

Oral: Cimetidine

Doing nothing: also an option

Whether you choose to wait for natural resolution or explore treatment pathways, it's essential to consult with a dermatologist to find the best approach for you or your child. Remember, the immune system is a powerful ally in overcoming molluscum, and understanding your options can lead to a more comfortable experience.

Keywords

molluscum contagiosum, skin treatments, dermatology, pediatric dermatology, viral skin infections, immune system health, skincare tips, skin health

Links, Attachments

Portico Pharmacy for Aron Regimen for Molluscum Dermatitis (must be prescribed by a provider)

Chapters

00:00 Welcome & Intro

02:00 There Are Options to Treat Molluscum

03:30 Treating Molluscum Dermatitis

04:20 Pseudofurunculoid Molluscum

06:30 Topical, In Office, Oral Treatments

07:40 Tea Tree Oil

10:00 No Treatment Stops Spread of Molluscum

11:10 Topical Retinoids (Irritating)

12:14 Imiquimod, Controversial but Effective

17:00 KOH: Potassium Hydroxide

20:25 Dr. Swanson’s Reaction to PDT (A Side Note)

22:00 Easing Into Therapies and Treatments

22:45 Zelsuvmi (Berdazimer)

25:28 Nitric Oxide: Molecule of the Year in 1992

31: 00 In Office Treatments: Beetle Juice (Cantharadin)

39:00 Liquid Nitrogen (LN2)

41:00 Candida Antigen Yeast Protein Injections

43:00 Redness & Swelling, Don’t Panic

44:34 Curettage for the Highly Motivated Patient

47:45 Oral Cimetidine or Doing Nothing (Also an Option)

52:00 Thank you, Goodbye + Disclosure from Dr. Swanson

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The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult your physician regarding your health.

In this episode Dr. Lisa Swanson takes a deep dive into Molluscum Contagiosum, which is a very common and highly contagious skin virus that primarily affects children. It spreads easily through close contact and shared water environments such as swimming pools and baths. While the bumps can persist for up to years, the immune system usually clears the infection on its own, and most people only get molluscum once.

As the body begins fighting the virus, children may develop related reactions such as molluscum dermatitis, pseudo-furunculoid molluscum (inflamed bumps that signal an immune response), or an ID reaction—an immune-driven rash elsewhere on the body. Although the condition can look alarming and carries some social stigma, it is generally harmless and does not require quarantine. For families who prefer faster resolution, dermatology treatment options are available to help clear the lesions sooner.

Keywords

Molluscum Contagiosum, Dermatology, Pediatric Dermatology, Skin Bumps, Children's Health, Immune Response, Skin Treatment, Contagious Skin Virus, Molluscum Dermatitis, Pseudo-Furunculoid, ID Reaction

Links, Attachments

Portico Compunding Pharmacy

Chapters

00:00 Intro to Molluscum and Welcome

02:15 Pox Virus, Swimming Pools

04:00 Immune Treatments

06:25 Appearance of Molluscum Bumps

07:45 Molluscum Dermatitis

10:00 International Listeners

11:28 AAD Shade Grant for Schools

12:00 Pseudo-Furunculoid Molluscum

14:10 Symptoms of Molluscum

16:027 Hygiene & STD Stigma

17:30 Adults & Molluscum

21:00 Immunity

22:25 ID Reactions

26:00 Molluscum Will Eventually Resolve

30:00 If You’re Going To The Pool

33:00 Goodbye

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The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult your physician regarding your health.