Big Questions with Cal Fussman

Latest Episodes:

Dr. Neil Baum: The Prostate Coach Jul 05, 2022

Show notes

Cal looks for a way to bring people together during the acrimony following the Supreme

Court decision reversing Roe vs. Wade and setting the stage for the prohibition of

abortion in certain states. So he made an unusual decision to publish an episode that he was planning for September – during Prostate Cancer Awareness month. The idea behind it is for people of different sexes and opinions to share knowledge in a kind way – in this case about an often-misunderstood male organ. Dr. Neil Baum, a urologist from New Orleans, gives the primer. The hope is that we all become more curious and understanding of each other's health needs and opinions. Because if we can't come together as a nation over healthcare, what can we come together over?

Magic Spoon: Reinventing Breakfast Coach Jun 28, 2022

Show notes

On average, every American eats 100 bowls of cereal a year. Most are filled with highly-sugared, highly-processed carbohydrates fronted by wonderful animations of characters that lure kids in to thinking they're breakfast pals. Cal used to be one of those kids, and he loved those sweet, crunchy cereals. Now, Cal wonders how much healthier America would be if it were eating cereals that taste great but contain virtually no sugar made by Magic Spoon. His conversation with company founder Gabi Lewis takes us all to new places. A healthy Birthday Cake cereal???

Your Never Forget Anything Again! Coaches Jun 21, 2022

Show notes

Cal meets two guys who've created an App that does not let you forget anything -- and creates a memory archive. That made Cal feel sharper and healthier in an instant. Not only is the Twos App free. But the founders gave Cal a two-dollar bill as a promotional gesture just to try it out. Cal did, and has been using the Twos App ever since. Founders Parker Klein and Joe Steilberg got so excited to come on Big Questions, they offered to Venmo $2 to anybody who tries the Twos App. Cal's sure this will delight listeners . . . but he hopes it doesn't bankrupt Parker and Joe.

Ryan Chen: Your Calm And Clarity Coach Jun 14, 2022

Show notes

Cal has become fascinated with how people are reinventing soda and breakfast cereal to make them healthier. When he hears how Neuro mints bring calm and clarity and Neuro chewing gum brings focus and energy, he reaches out for a taste and finds a story that you're going to want to pass on to anyone you know having a difficult time. Just listen to how Neuro co-founder Ryan Chen came through a 35-foot fall that smashed his spine during a snowboarding accident, lost all movement beneath his hips, then beat addiction to pain killers and went on to create a product that will give you a sense of calm and clarity. There are many people who are depressed and could use a lift right now. Pass this podcast on to them. Could be a true life saver.

Eddie Garcia: Your Second Heart Coach Jun 07, 2022

Show notes

Cal catches up with a friend he met while speaking at an event at Kaiser Permanente just before COVID. Eddie Garcia had had a heart attack. His heart was in trouble, and Eddie was waiting for a transplant. Eddie did receive a new heart and a second chance at life during COVID. What Cal didn't know was that Eddie had been wanting to write a letter of thanks to the family of the donor – but was gripped by writer's block. It was understandable, because such a letter can bring pain to the family of the donor. Some families in that situation simply want to move forward. Eddie's new heart was calling out to write the letter, though, and at the end of this podcast you're going to hear it and see how clear communication can break through writer's block in any situation.

Dr. Anthony Fauci: What I've Learned From COVID May 31, 2022

Show notes

Cal reached out to the Chief Medical Officer to the President to find out what Dr. Anthony Fauci learned since the start of the COVID pandemic. Cal's surprised by Dr. Fauci's answer, though maybe he shouldn't have been.

Your Advanced Medical Planning Coach May 24, 2022

Show notes

Cal had no idea that as we age there is a risk that receiving CPR could give you brain damage. Knowing that, would you want to be resuscitated? There are many medical situations that can leave you unable to communicate. Have you left behind decisions on how you'd like to be treated? Or who you'd like to be making decisions on your behalf? Dr. Tatiana Fofanova of Koda Health takes Cal through the interview process that allows us to make legally-binding decisions in an emergency should we be unable to communicate. Healthcare providers are willing to pay for this information, because they want to know how to treat you. Live in peace.

Flush Away Irritable Bowel Syndrome Coach May 17, 2022

Show notes

Millions of people are impacted by IBS. But few talk about their troubles on the toilet – whether they be about constipation, diarrhea, bloating or excess gas. Most suffer in silence. The conversation you're about to hear is a game changer. Because IBS picked on the wrong guy when it came after a data scientist at Uber – Asaf Kraus. Asaf used artificial intelligence and photos to track down the foods and habits that were causing his problems and created a company called Dieta Health that can potentially help millions of people solve their intestinal problems. And it all started on a date. If you're not impacted by IBS, you definitely know someone who is. Please pass this episode to anyone you know with IBS. They'll be deeply grateful.

How To Rewrite Your ER Contract May 10, 2022

Show notes

Cal comes across an interesting situation when an 18-year-old college freshman develops back pain after donating blood. A campus doctor fears it could be a deadly pulmonary embolism and directs Ashton Marshall to the local Emergency Room. This could lead to many tests and high bills. Ashton's father, the author of Never Pay The First Bill, offers his son a strategy to keep the charges reasonable. Listen to Marshall Allen, and you'll have that same strategy.

Ryan Hockensmith: Never Be Miserable Coach May 03, 2022

Show notes

Cal reads a story on ESPN.com that makes him cackle, and he reaches out to the writer to thank him for bringing laughter into his day. The conversation that ensues brings forth an amazing story about the loss of Ryan's toes and the surreal journey it takes him on. Pass this podcast on to anyone feeling down or miserable. They'll likely have a very different mindset after they're done: Gratitude.