Prevention is Cure: Recent Episodes
Prof Grant Schofield
Prof Grant Schofield challenges mainstream medicine, talks with leading experts and shares the latest science and tools to have a happier and healthier life. Brought to you by prekure.com.
Join Prof Grant Schofield and Kayla as they dive deep into the fascinating connections between sun exposure, diet, and skin health. Together they explore the science behind vitamin D, how what you eat can influence your risk of sunburn and skin cancer and break down the latest research on sunscreens - comparing mineral-based and chemical options. Tune in now!
Join Professor Grant Schofield and Ree George as they dive deep into the world of health coaching, mental fitness, and lifestyle change. This episode explores real-life journeys, practical strategies, and the science behind living well, covering everything from overcoming addiction and building resilience to the power of group coaching and the importance of sleep, nutrition, and connection.
In this episode of the Prevention of Cure podcast, host Grant sits down with Marcel Hoff - brother of Wim Hoff and a pioneer in the world of breathwork and cold exposure. Together, they explore the intersection of ancient practices and modern science, diving deep into the concept of hormesis: how controlled stressors like breathwork and cold immersion can strengthen both body and mind.
Marcel shares insights from decades of experience, including the latest scientific research on the benefits of breath control, cold therapy, and their impact on the nervous system, immunity, and mental health. The conversation also touches on the spiritual dimension of these practices, the importance of self-trust, and how reconnecting with our bodies can help us navigate today’s challenging environment.
Whether you’re curious about the science behind the “Iceman” methods, looking for practical tips to boost your resilience, or interested in the mind-body connection, this episode offers inspiration and actionable wisdom for anyone seeking a healthier, more vibrant life.
Tune in to discover how simple, natural practices can unlock your body’s innate healing power and why sometimes, choosing your “hard” is the key to lasting well-being.
Prof Grant Schofield sits down with Dr Glen Davies to explore how lifestyle medicine is reshaping the future of healthcare. In this episode, Dr Davies shares how one lecture on insulin resistance and nutrition transformed his approach to type 2 diabetes, moving from symptom management to true reversal. Together they discuss his work with the “Reverse T2 Diabetes Taupō” initiative, which has helped more than 200 people reverse diabetes or pre-diabetes through low-carb nutrition and education. They unpack why insulin resistance sits at the heart of so many chronic diseases, the gaps in medical education around nutrition, and the urgent need for a healthcare model focused on prevention, not just treatment. The conversation also touches on the metabolic approach to cancer care, community-based health programmes, and the policies needed to create a healthier food environment.
Join Professor Grant Schofield as he sits down with optometrist and podcaster Ryan O'Connor (Stag Roar Podcast) for a deep dive into the fascinating intersection of eye health, metabolic wellness, and modern optometry. In this episode, they explore how lifestyle, nutrition, and technology are reshaping our understanding of vision and overall health. From the science behind optometry and the impact of metabolic health on the eyes, to practical tips for preventing common conditions and the latest in eye care innovation, this conversation is packed with insights for anyone interested in seeing, and living, better. Whether you’re a health professional, patient, or just curious about the link between your eyes and your body, you’ll find plenty to learn and enjoy.
In this episode, Prof Grant Schofield interviews PREKURE lead and Master Coach, Sonya English. They discuss the alarming rise of preventable chronic diseases, the importance of end-of-life conversations, and the cultural taboos surrounding death. Sonya shares her journey from intensive care nursing to health coaching, emphasising the need for a more compassionate and personalised approach to healthcare. The conversation highlights the significance of listening, accountability, and the emotional dynamics involved in behaviour change, ultimately advocating for a shift in how we view health and wellness.
Are we addicted to dopamine?
From food to phones, gaming to gambling - modern life is hijacking our brain’s reward system. In this episode, Prof Grant and Kayla unpack the difference between fast vs slow dopamine, how it links to food addiction and mental health, and why so many of us are stuck in a cycle of craving and withdrawal.
In this guest episode with endometriosis expert and co-founder of Endometriosis New Zealand, Deborah Bush, we explore the debilitating disease affecting 1 in 10 women. Despite its prevalence, endometriosis remains widely misunderstood and underdiagnosed. Deborah shares the latest science, practical insights, and decades of advocacy experience, revealing the real impact endometriosis has on women’s health, relationships, and daily life, and what needs to change to improve outcomes for those living with it.
Prof Grant Schofield and Kayla unpack the science on creatine, from muscle strength and endurance to brain health, mental health, and metabolic benefits. What’s the evidence, how much should you take, and who can benefit most? Prevention is Cure.
Prof Grant Schofield and Kayla unpack why vitamin D might be the most underrated supplement out there. From immunity and obesity to brain health and mood, they explore the wide-ranging benefits - and the risks of deficiency. They also cover creatine, declining nutrient density in modern food, and why some supplements are just expensive urine. Smart, evidence-based insight on what’s actually worth taking.
Renowned metabolic neurologist Dr Matthew Phillips joins Prof Grant Schofield on the Prevention is Cure podcast to explore the powerful role of metabolic therapy in brain health. Together, they dive into how fasting, ketogenic diets, and mitohormesis are transforming treatment for neurological conditions like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. Learn about the emerging science, real-world patient stories, and why this could be a pivotal shift in how we treat and prevent chronic brain disease.
In this episode, we explore the most powerful health tool you’re not using: fasting.
Grant and Kayla break down the science behind how fasting improves metabolic health, boosts insulin sensitivity, and supports long-term energy and resilience.
From time-restricted eating to alternate-day fasting, learn how it activates autophagy, supports mitochondrial health, and may help reverse insulin resistance.
Packed with practical tips and insights - tune in and rethink your relationship with food.
Grant Schofield and Paul Taylor explore the intricate relationship between psychology and physiology, emphasising the importance of understanding how these two fields intersect in addressing mental health issues. They discuss the concept of hardiness, the challenges of conducting meaningful health research, and the implications of emerging weight loss medications, including GLP-1 agonists and myostatin inhibitors. The conversation also touches on the art of public speaking, the significance of personal health monitoring, and the future of health technologies, all while highlighting the need for evidence-based practices in wellness.
In this milestone 333rd episode of The Stag Roar Podcast, Professor Grant Schofield returns for a third appearance to dive into the science and mindset behind fasting, metabolic health, and disease prevention. Host Ryan reflects on their previous episodes and revisits key topics with fresh insights-from macular degeneration and mitochondrial health to diabetes and the role of autophagy. Grant shares why he and Louise Schofield commit to an annual five-day fast, the discipline required to do hard things, and how lifestyle choices can radically influence long-term wellbeing. He also teases his upcoming book, centred on the power of discomfort as a path to health.
Prof Grant Schofield and Kayla Lenferna De La Motte unpack how much exercise is really enough - and when it’s too much.
They break down the Goldilocks principle, steps vs intentional training, surprising research on exercise and cancer, and why you can’t outrun a bad diet.
Practical, real-world insights to help you move better, recover smarter and find your sweet spot for lifelong health. Prevention is Cure. The only ask we have is that you rate the show 5 stars it makes a huge difference for us. Please let us know your feedback & new episodes weekly!
Michael Laws talks to Professor Grant Schofield about the rising use of Ozempic and Wegovy. Are these weight-loss drugs a miracle cure or just another costly shortcut masking deeper problems? In this candid interview on The Platform, Grant unpacks the true costs, side effects, and uncomfortable truths behind the obesity epidemic - and why real prevention still matters more than a prescription.
Prof. Grant Schofield is back. Prevention Is Cure returns - bigger, bolder, and driven by you. Ask us anything: sleep, food, movement, breathing, ice baths, social media, saunas - you name it. We’ll dig in.
Great guests, real answers. Prevention is cure - let’s go.
Grant Schofield interview with radio New Zealand. On, Tuesday 1 July 2025, New Zealanders will be able to access weight-loss drug Wegovy by prescription in their local pharmacies.
Professor of Public Health Grant Scofield joins Emile Donovan to discuss the effectiveness of weight-loss drugs and whether the funding settings are right - with a month of Wegovy estimated to cost $450 to $600 per month.
In this episode, Prof Grant Schofield speaks with Jess Dyson, founder of specialised eating disorder recovery coaching clinic Redefined Coaching.
The pair discuss Jess's own lived experience and personal journey from being diagnosed with Anorexia at 14 to where she is today. They also talk about the range, types and common misconceptions of disordered eating, the psychology behind it all and how the coaching model can play a role in inspiring hope and equipping people with the tools for recovery.
"I remember being so hopeless, because I just didn't see a way out. I wanted to recover but the fear of recovery outweighed staying where I was... Today I am passionate about bringing hope into the battle of eating disorders because I believe that recovery is possible for everyone." – Jess Dyson
PREKURE provides university level online and interactive short courses and certificates in lifestyle medicine for individuals and professionals. Internationally certified in New Zealand, Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom, PREKURE courses are taught by recognised world experts and academics who share only evidence-based knowledge and tools and is led by Chief Science Officer and Professor of Public Health, Prof Grant Schofield.
Learn more about PREKURE and our mission of 'Extending the Human Healthspan' at www.prekure.com
In this episode, Prof Grant Schofield speaks with clinical and research neurologist, Dr Matthew Phillips.
The pair discuss Matt's passion for exploring the potential feasibility, safety, and efficacy of 'metabolic' therapies, such as fasting and ketogenic diets in order to improve the quality of life for people with Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and a variety of additional neurological disorders.
"Ultimately, I wish to help create a new field of Metabolic Neurology that emphasises applying metabolic strategies in healthcare so as to potentially heal many difficult disorders at their core, with the overarching goal being the improved health and enhanced nobility of humanity." – Dr Matt Phillips
PREKURE provides university level online and interactive short courses and certificates in lifestyle medicine for individuals and professionals. Internationally certified in New Zealand, Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom, PREKURE courses are taught by recognised world experts and academics who share only evidence-based knowledge and tools and is led by Chief Science Officer and Professor of Public Health, Prof Grant Schofield.
Learn more about PREKURE and our mission of 'Extending the Human Healthspan' at www.prekure.com
MENTAL HEALTH SERIES Episode 11: In this episode, Prof Grant Schofield speaks with Josh Darby, a senior firefighter and trauma and psychological injury researcher.
Grant and Josh discuss Josh’s journey as a career firefighter from the early age of 16 and his own personal experience dealing with psychological trauma and injury on the job. The two also cover Josh's pathway into academia and his extensive work in health & wellbeing research.
"If you think about resilience, if I go into the gym and I don't expose my muscles to a stressor, then to some degree I'm going to atrophy and there's not going to be growth. By the same token, if I completely overload my muscle's ability to cope with that weight, that stressor, then I'm going to get injured.
We've got these two extremes. Can we negotiate some type of compromise, some type of middle ground, where you're being exposed to a stressor, but you're being exposed in such a way where, it's not completely overwhelming and won't lead to injury. Psychologically or physically." – Josh Darby
PREKURE provides university level online & interactive short courses & certificates in lifestyle medicine for individuals and professionals. Internationally certified in New Zealand, Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom, PREKURE courses are taught by recognised world experts and academics who share only evidence-based knowledge and tools. Learn more about PREKURE and our Mental Health Solutions. www.prekure.com
MENTAL HEALTH SERIES Episode 10: In this episode, Prof Grant Schofield speaks with Dr Robin Youngson, a Trauma Therapist, Certified Havening Practitioner and retired Anesthesiologist.
Grant and Robin discuss Robin’s journey initially as an engineer and then into medicine as an anesthesiologist and his disillusionment and drive for change at a really high level in the medical system. Robin has since become a central figure in the field of trauma therapy and is bringing about real change with tools such as the Havening technique as part of his approach to use the latest science to treat psychological ill-health.
"I'm talking about really serious major trauma and extremely disordered lives and whatever is presenting I start to work with and it's like archeology, we gradually dig down the layers and get down to the older and older stuff and it just emerges out of the subconscious bit by bit... we just quietly and patiently work our way and you see the client gradually build more and more resilience, letting go of trauma, losing symptoms ad physical health improving bit by bit." – Dr Robin Youngson
PREKURE provides university level online & interactive short courses & certificates in lifestyle medicine for individuals and professionals. Internationally certified in New Zealand, Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom, PREKURE courses are taught by recognised world experts and academics who share only evidence-based knowledge and tools. Learn more about PREKURE and our Mental Health Solutions. www.prekure.com
MENTAL HEALTH SERIES Episode 9: In this episode, Prof Grant Schofield speaks with Lisa Burch, a PREKURE Health Coach and substance misuse and addictions expert.
Grant and Lisa talk about Lisa's own battle with alcohol over many decades as well as the thought patterns that people struggling with addiction have. They cover the initial hopelessness that comes with addiction as well as the learnings, especially around neuro-plasticity, dopamine and how the brain functions in regards to addictive substances. Lisa's story is powerful, personal and real and shares a unique point of view of someone who not only understands the latest research as a certified Health Coach, but who also carries with her a lifetime of lived experience.
"A third path opened up. I had 'dying' or 'miserable recovering alcoholic' and then suddenly I had this little glimmer of hope that actually, maybe there was another way. Maybe there's life without alcohol. And I can do it, I can get there... And it was tough you know, I had bad days. But certainly I knew I had gained enough that there was no way I was ever, ever going to go back. Life began to get progressively better." – Lisa Burch
PREKURE provides university level online & interactive short courses & certificates in lifestyle medicine for individuals and professionals. Internationally certified in New Zealand, Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom, PREKURE courses are taught by recognised world experts and academics who share only evidence-based knowledge and tools. Learn more about PREKURE and our Mental Health Solutions. www.prekure.com
MENTAL HEALTH SERIES Episode 8: In this episode Prof Grant Schofield speaks with Dr. Katie Holton a nutritional neuroscientist and professor at American University in Washington, DC.
Grant and Katie discuss how she became interested in nutrition and neuroscience and her work on optimising neurological health through diet, particularly her research on the effects of a low glutamate diet on the neurological symptoms of Gulf War Illness.
"Not only are we not seeing any negative side-affects, we see some other positive benefits like blood pressure being reduced even though we weren't aiming to reduce blood pressure, or people losing weight who weren't trying to lose weight at all." – Dr. Katie Holton
PREKURE provides university level online & interactive short courses & certificates in lifestyle medicine for individuals and professionals. Internationally certified in New Zealand, Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom, PREKURE courses are taught by recognised world experts and academics who share only evidence-based knowledge and tools. Learn more about PREKURE and our Mental Health Solutions. www.prekure.com
MENTAL HEALTH SERIES Episode 7: In this episode Prof Grant Schofield speaks with George Henderson a former addict turned self-taught and widely published academic. George describes how boredom and curiosity led him to seek out addictive substances in the 70's, a time when the drug culture was running rampant in New Zealand.
Grant and George discuss the biology of addiction, looking at different substances and delving into the importance of the environment and the neurobiology of addiction, or what's going on in the brain. A thought provoking discussion about what it means to be addicted.
"The disease model of addiction is valid. The way I see it, a substance gets into your brain and hacks your brain cells so you can only sign in using the drug" - George Henderson
PREKURE provides university level online & interactive short courses & certificates in lifestyle medicine for individuals and professionals. Internationally certified in New Zealand, Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom, PREKURE courses are taught by recognised world experts and academics who share only evidence-based knowledge and tools. Learn more about PREKURE and our Mental Health Solutions. www.prekure.com
MENTAL HEALTH SERIES Episode 6: This episode we share a hopeful discussion about the simple things you can do everyday to boost your serotonin, get better at handling stress and live a happier, healthier life. Prof Grant Schofield talks to Dave Wood, an intensive care paramedic and the founder of Woody’s Movement Workshop where he takes a holistic approach to athletic performance.
Dave talks about his experience as an intensive paramedic, his recent move to start Woody’s Movement Workshop, and the importance of training the breathing and nervous systems for optimal health and performance.
Prof Grant and Dave explore lifestyle medicine tools like breath, connecting with the earth, prioritising sleep, eating good food, moving your body, getting cold, and exposing yourself to natural light, and the profound positive effects on mental health.
PREKURE provides university level online & interactive short courses & certificates in lifestyle medicine for individuals and professionals. Internationally certified in New Zealand, Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom, PREKURE courses are taught by recognised world experts and academics who share only evidence-based knowledge and tools. Learn more about PREKURE and our Mental Health Solutions. www.prekure.com
MENTAL HEALTH SERIES Episode 5: This episode Prof Grant Schofield talks to PREKURE'S lead Health Coach and critical care nurse, Sonya English. With 35-years experience in critical care Sonya has had what she terms "a front row seat to human tragedy". She is uniquely placed to talk about life and death and the way we, in our Western society, deal with these concepts and could potentially do a better job of it.
In this podcast Sonya discusses how she uses health coaching techniques like curious questions, to support patients as they navigate our 'sick care system'. Sonya explains the importance of compassion, honesty, and asking people what they really want in a system where they are often told what to do. This podcast shines a light on the importance of putting people back at the centre of our healthcare system and our approaches to treatment.
An illuminating discussion on how we should get back to treating people like people, support them in regaining their agency and give them the tools to make informed decisions. This discussion illustrates how health coaching is the formula to make this happen and allow people to regain power over their health and their life.
PREKURE provides university level online & interactive short courses & certificates in lifestyle medicine for individuals and professionals. Internationally certified in New Zealand, Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom, PREKURE courses are taught by recognised world experts and academics who share only evidence-based knowledge and tools. Learn more about PREKURE and our Mental Health Solutions. www.prekure.com
MENTAL HEALTH SERIES Episode 4: What exactly is a pracademic? This episode Prof Grant Schofield talks with Paul Taylor to answer that question. Join in as they explore the importance of rituals in behaviour change and discuss ancient Stoic philosophies of wellbeing.
Paul is an exercise physiologist, nutritionist, and neuroscientist. Currently pursuing a PhD in psychology, Paul is passionate about translating the science into practice to help people identify practical tools and solutions to live a better life.
Paul explains the importance of prompts, if-then behaviours, and building self-efficacy in the behaviour change process. He gives practical examples based on his experiences with incorporating the teachings of Standford researcher and author of 'Tiny Habits' BJ Fogg into his own life.
Tune in as Paul delves into the teachings of ancient Stoic philosophers and discusses the similarities with common psychotherapy tools today including cognitive behavioural therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy. Learn practical tools like the zone 1 and zone 2 concept that you can implement in your life today.
"The Stoics are all about conditioning the mind and the body to deal with whatever life will throw at you". - Paul Taylor
PREKURE provides university level online & interactive short courses & certificates in lifestyle medicine for individuals and professionals. Internationally certified in New Zealand, Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom, PREKURE courses are taught by recognised world experts and academics who share only evidence-based knowledge and tools. Learn more about PREKURE and our Mental Health Solutions. www.prekure.com
MENTAL HEALTH SERIES Episode 3: In this episode Prof Grant Schofield talks to PREKURE’s resident Psychologist Sophia Dawson. Sophia outlines the roles of different mental health professionals and what 'going to a psychologist' might look like. Catch their discussion as they delve into:
- Mental health presentations from the common (anxiety and depression) to the not so common (schizophrenia, psychosis, and personality disorder)
- Different types of theories and therapies - like CBT (cognitive behaviour therapy) and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy)
- ACT – What is it and how does it work? And how you can use these powerful tools to develop psychological flexibility, for your own benefit, and also to help others
"In ACT we don't describe thoughts and feelings to be positive or negative. It's either helpful or unhelpful, workable or unworkable. The idea that suffering being inherent in the human experience certainly isn't new and ACT really just normalises that as a part of being human." - Sophia Dawson
PREKURE provides university level online & interactive short courses & certificates in lifestyle medicine for individuals and professionals. Internationally certified in New Zealand, Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom, PREKURE courses are taught by recognised world experts and academics who share only evidence-based knowledge and tools. Learn more about PREKURE and our Mental Health Solutions. www.prekure.com
MENTAL HEALTH SERIES Episode 2: Prof Grant Schofield discusses nutritional psychology with Prof Julia Rucklidge, Prof Clinical Psychology at University of Canterbury, mental health & nutrition researcher, co-author The Better Brain, TEDx and edX speaker. How what we consume has direct implications on our mental health. Find out how to optimise your micronutrients for daily living and mental wellbeing.
“We asked this question whether people who were better nourished before a stressor came along, do they recover more quickly from a stress of an earthquake? And the answer is yes they do.” – Prof Julia Rucklidge
PREKURE provides university level online & interactive short courses & certificates in lifestyle medicine for individuals and professionals. Internationally certified in New Zealand, Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom, PREKURE courses are taught by recognised world experts and academics who share only evidence-based knowledge and tools. Learn more about PREKURE and our Mental Health Solutions. www.prekure.com
MENTAL HEALTH SERIES Episode 1: Jimi Hunt is an author, mental health advocate and former New Zealander of the year nominee. Prof Grant and Jimi discuss the idea of ‘mental fitness’ and how we have lost our way with mental wellbeing and conventional medicine. How can we become mentally fitter and get back onto the right track?
“The greatest possible benefit of meditation is the understanding that you are not your thoughts, you are an observer of your thoughts.” – Jimi Hunt
PREKURE provides university level online & interactive short courses & certificates in lifestyle medicine for individuals and professionals. Internationally certified in New Zealand, Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom, PREKURE courses are taught by recognised world experts and academics who share only evidence-based knowledge and tools. Learn more about PREKURE and our Mental Health Solutions. www.prekure.com