I Did My Own Research

Franziska Haydanek

I Did My Own Research is a podcast hosted by OB-GYN and medical educator Dr. Fran, digging into what happens when medical misinformation goes viral—and what it takes to fight it.

Each episode features conversations with doctors, healthcare professionals, and scientists who create content online, breaking down the myths they see every day, how they got pulled into content creation, and why having evidence-based voices on the internet has never mattered more.

From trending health claims to behind-the-scenes creator stories, this podcast is about reclaiming “research,” one expert conversation at a time.

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20 episodes
Updated Monday

Episodes20

Newest first

Monday · 33 min
with @DrShazmaMithani: Why "Natural" Doesn't Mean Safe
In this episode of I Did My Own Research, Dr. Fran sits down with Dr. Shazma Mithani — a pediatric and adult emergency medicine physician, and co-host of The Doc Talk Podcast. Together, they discuss How Dr. Mithani's path from ER doctor to online misinformation-buster took shape during COVID What The Pitt gets right (and wrong) about emergency medicine, from missing consultants to unrealistic single-coverage EDs The real-world impact of vaccine hesitancy on pediatric ER workups, and why declining immunization rates change how doctors approach diagnosis Why "natural" doesn't always mean safe — from risky detoxes and cleanses to supplement-induced hyperthyroidism This episode is brought to you by Vim & Vigor compression socks — use code RESEARCH for 20% off at VimVigr.com. Dr. Mithani's social media: @DrShazmaMithani & @TheDocTalkPod Dr. Fran's social media: @PagingDrFran
July 20 · 41 min
with @SleepDrChris: Does the Viral Sleepy Girl Mocktail Actually Work? And More!
Dr. Fran sits down with Dr. Christopher Allen — pediatric neurologist, sleep medicine specialist, and creator behind "Sleep Doctor Chris" — for a deep dive into everything we get wrong about sleep. From debunking the idea that snoring is "just sleeping deep" to explaining why sleep studies aren't as scary as they sound, Dr. Allen breaks down the science of rest in plain, practical terms. They cover: What actually happens during a sleep study (in-lab and at-home versions) Why obstructive sleep apnea is so often mistaken for anxiety or depression — and how treating it can mean coming off medication entirely Why women are chronically underdiagnosed with sleep apnea, and the questions doctors should be asking The truth about melatonin: the right dose, the right timing, and why more isn't better Whether you're a chronic snorer, a new parent, a night shift worker, or just someone who doom-scrolls in bed, this episode is packed with real, actionable advice to help you finally get the sleep you deserve. Dr. Chris's social media: @SleepDrChris Dr. Fran's social media: @PagingDrFran
July 13 · 50 min
with Liam (@ThePlantSlant): The Rotisserie Chicken Discourse Must Be Stopped
This week on I Did My Own Research, Dr. Fran sits down with Liam, the creator behind The Plant Slant, who's built an audience of over 3 million by championing a simple message: eat mostly plants, but not only plants — and don't let internet extremism ruin your relationship with food. Liam and Dr. Fran dig into why the rotisserie chicken discourse won't die, how comedy became one of the most effective tools for debunking nutrition misinformation, and why "black and white" advice sells better online than the boring truth (eat fiber, get protein, sleep more — groundbreaking, we know). They talk about spotting the tell-tale sign of a grifter — an Instagram bio stuffed with $45 supplements — and why fear-mongering about affordable staples like seed oils, chicken, and cottage cheese disproportionately hurts people who can least afford the "clean" alternative. The conversation gets personal too, as Liam opens up about growing up on WIC and food stamps, why he's tired of hearing people call struggling families "moochers," and how privilege shapes so much of the wellness advice we see online. Plus: rapid-fire questions, the worst thing anyone has ever done to cottage cheese, and an origin story involving MADtv, grocery store debunking videos, and a guy who thinks broken bells are making us sick. Liam's social media: @The_Plant_Slant Dr. Fran's social media: @PagingDrFran
July 6 · 31 min
with @SarOBGYN: Birth Control Doesn't Ruin Your Life — Here's What Does
In this episode, Dr. Fran sits down with Dr. Sara Neill (@SarOBGYN), a complex family planning specialist, to unpack the flood of misinformation swirling around birth control and abortion care. Dr. Neill walks through what complex family planning actually involves — abortion care, contraception, and pregnancy loss care — and shares what a typical (if unpredictable) week looks like between clinic, telehealth, teaching residents, and labor and delivery. The conversation dives into some of the most persistent myths circulating online right now, including the claim that hormonal birth control "makes your body think it's pregnant" and viral theories linking teenage birth control use to adult infertility. Dr. Neill and Dr. Fran talk about how they gently push back on these narratives with patients, why curiosity works better than confrontation, and how being active on social media has actually made them better clinicians. They also get into the harder-to-talk-about topics: the political weight of discussing abortion online, algorithm suppression of reproductive health content, and the role of crisis pregnancy centers in steering patients away from real care. Dr. Neill shares a firsthand account of a patient hesitant to share an ultrasound from one of these centers — and what that might say about how CPCs are coaching patients. Dr. Neill's social media: @SarObGyn Dr. Fran's social media: @PagingDrFran
June 29 · 33 min
With @Pharmomacist: Decoding the OTC Medicine Aisle
This week, Dr. Fran sits down with clinical pharmacist Dr. Melissa, PharmD (@Pharmomacist), whose online platform tackles postpartum mental health, vaccine data, over-the-counter medications, and skincare. Dr. Melissa walks through her path into ambulatory care pharmacy, including her work in cardiology and a pharmacist-run clinic focused on high-risk patients — and explains why pharmacists often spend as much time removing medications from a regimen as adding them. The conversation digs into the chaos of the children's medicine aisle, why "natural" and "homeopathic" labels on over-the-counter products don't mean regulated or evidence-based, and how something as simple as choosing Tylenol versus Motrin for a teething baby actually comes down to the science of inflammation. Dr. Mack also opens up about sharing her own postpartum SSRI use online, her decision to get Botox while breastfeeding (and what the actual research says about medications and breast milk), and why she felt compelled to respond to a viral video about vaccine refusals — even knowing the backlash it would bring. She and Dr. Fran talk candidly about misinformation, the responsibility that comes with influence, the importance of having these conversations with your provider before delivery day, and why taking care of yourself postpartum isn't selfish — it's part of being a good parent. Dr. Melissa's social media: @Pharmomacist Dr. Fran's social media: @PagingDrFran
June 8 · 42 min
with @DrPadgetSkogman: What the Research Really Says About Screens & Raising Healthy Kids
In this episode of I Did My Own Research, Dr. Fran sits down with Dr. Padget Skogman — Iowa-based pediatrician, mom of three, and medical content creator — for a wide-ranging conversation about modern parenthood, the pressure of too much information, and how to raise kids confidently in a screen-saturated world. They dig into why parents today are more anxious than ever (hint: it's not a lack of information — it's a firehose of it), and why trusting your own instincts within your family's values matters more than following every online trend. Dr. Skogman breaks down what the research actually says about screen time — including what the ABCD brain study is revealing about how different types of content affect developing minds differently. They also get into: Why picky eating is totally normal and what to actually do about it The viral "declining interventions in labor" content trend — and why nuance matters when millions of people are watching How social media can be a genuine net positive for parents, patients, and physicians Physician burnout, processing hard days, and what The Pitt gets right about medicine This one is equal parts science, real talk, and solidarity for anyone trying to parent thoughtfully in 2026. Dr. Skogman's social media: @DrPadgetSkogman Dr. Fran's social media: @PagingDrFran
June 4 · 17 min
with @MelindaFrenchGates: Why Women's Health Deserves Funding
Dr. Fran sits down with Melinda French Gates — philanthropist and founder of Pivotal, a group of organizations she founded to accelerate the pace of social progress for women and young people in the U.S. and around the world. Following an announcement of new funding commitments that bring her total investment in women's health to over $600 million in the last two years. Melinda shares why she is doubling down on reproductive health while expanding her focus to midlife, menopause, and mental health — areas she believes have been chronically underfunded and overlooked for far too long. Together, Dr. Fran and Melinda dig into the frustrating gaps in women's healthcare, from the lack of research and dedicated treatments for conditions like PCOS, to the inadequate training physicians receive around menopause. Dr. Fran opens up about her own experiences as both a patient with PCOS and a physician who graduated residency with just one lecture on menopause, highlighting how these systemic failures leave both doctors and patients feeling stuck and without real answers. The conversation also takes a deep look at the mental health component of women's healthcare — including the sobering reality that suicide is the leading cause of maternal mortality — and why Melinda sees mental health not as a side issue, but as a core and fundamental part of women's wellbeing. Both women agree on one powerful truth: when women are well, they can do well. And that starts with giving them the right care at the right time. Melinda's social media: @MelindaFrenchGates Dr. Fran's social media: @PagingDrFran
June 1 · 39 min
with @LadySpineDoc: what your MRI isn't telling you
Dr. Fran sits down in person with Dr. Betsy Grunch, board-certified neurosurgeon and creator behind the popular Lady Spine Doc brand, recorded live at the Pinnacle Conference in Austin. Dr. Grunch shares the deeply personal story that drew her to neurosurgery — her mother's spinal cord injury as a police officer — and walks listeners through her path from the University of Georgia to a six-year residency at Duke. The two doctors unpack one of the most common medical complaints their patients share: back pain, and why nearly 90% of people will experience it at some point in their lives. Dr. Grunch explains why MRIs are frequently overutilized, why pathology on a scan doesn't always mean that scan explains a patient's pain, and why a rushed diagnosis can actually make symptoms worse. The conversation turns to women's health, exploring how pregnancy, delivery, and the postpartum period uniquely impact spinal health — and why pelvic floor physical therapy should be a universal part of postpartum care. Dr. Grunch also opens up about her own postpartum back injury, the lifestyle changes it inspired, and her journey with weight loss, strength training, and GLP-1 medications. Dr. Grunch's social media: @LadySpineDoc Dr. Fran's social media: @PagingDrFran
May 26 · 30 min
with @The.Prenatal.RD: What Actually Helps Fertility? An RD Explains
In this episode of I Did My Own Research, Dr. Fran sits down with registered dietitian and prenatal nutrition expert Jessica Monroe to unpack the complicated — and often oversimplified — world of fertility nutrition. From PCOS and endometriosis to IVF, supplements, and male factor infertility, they dive into what the evidence actually says versus what social media wants you to believe. Together, they discuss why there is no single “fertility food,” how extreme diet advice can become harmful, and why sustainable habits matter more than viral quick fixes. Dr. Monroe shares her journey from nutritional biochemistry to women’s health nutrition, explains what working with a registered dietitian actually looks like, and breaks down how nutrition can support — but not “cure” — chronic conditions like PCOS and endometriosis. They also tackle supplement overload, misinformation online, the difference between a registered dietitian and a self-proclaimed “nutritionist,” and why fertility care should always include both partners. Plus: antioxidants, seafood research, vitamin D, inositol, and an important reminder that patterns over time matter far more than any one “magic” ingredient. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by fertility advice online, this episode is a grounded, nuanced conversation about what we know, what we don’t, and how to approach nutrition without fear, shame, or extremes. Dr. Jessica's social media: @The.Prenatal.RD Dr. Fran's social media: @PagingDrFran
May 18 · 37 min
with @FriendlyFamDoc: Why Doctors in Germany Can’t Create Content Like U.S. Physicians
In this episode of I Did My Own Research, Dr. Fran sits down with her sister, board-certified family medicine physician Dr. Victoria Hasselhof, for a conversation about practicing medicine across two countries, navigating medical misinformation online, and what patients are really looking for from doctors in the social media era. Dr. Hasselhof shares her unique path through medical school in Germany, residency in the United States, and five years working as a locums physician everywhere from rural South Dakota to remote Molokai, Hawaii. Together, the sisters compare the striking differences between the U.S. and German healthcare systems — including how physicians are regulated online, why German doctors can’t advertise products, and how access to care shapes the way patients seek medical information. They also dive into the realities of being physician content creators, the rise of wellness misinformation, vaccine myths, “low testosterone” content targeted at men, and why nuance in medicine rarely goes viral. Along the way, they make the case for family medicine as one of the most important — and misunderstood — specialties in healthcare. From bone-smashing TikTok trends to thoughtful conversations about trust, science, and patient care, this episode explores what happens when evidence-based medicine collides with the algorithm. Dr. Hasselhof's social media: @FriendlyFamDoc Dr. Fran's social media: @PagingDrFran
May 11 · 46 min
with @KevinKlatt: Why MAHA Gets Nutrition Wrong & Big Wellness Keeps Missing the Point
Dr. Fran sits down with registered dietitian, researcher, and science communicator Kevin Klatt for a wide-ranging conversation about nutrition science, public health, and how misinformation thrives when complex problems get reduced to simplistic solutions. From the realities of becoming a PhD/RD and conducting actual nutrition research, to the rise of wellness influencers, functional medicine, and the MAHA movement, they unpack why “just eat better” has never been an effective public health strategy. Together, they explore the structural problems driving chronic disease, the lack of investment in nutrition research, the privilege embedded in many wellness narratives, and why blaming individuals for systemic failures helps no one. They also discuss the collapse of science communication online, how academia lost public trust, and why more researchers—not just influencers—need to engage directly with the public. Dr. Klatt's social media: @KCKlatt Dr. Fran's social media: @PagingDrFran
May 4 · 50 min
with @JenHamilton: Labor Interventions, Birth Vibes & Social Media's Impact on Birthing
In this episode of I Did My Own Research, Dr. Fran sits down with labor and delivery nurse, social media educator, and chicken swaddler Jen Hamilton to unpack how birth conversations have evolved online—and what’s getting lost in the noise. Together, they challenge the growing narrative that all medical intervention is inherently harmful, reframing it instead as a set of tools that can be thoughtfully used to support safer, more positive birth experiences. Jen shares her journey from ER nurse to one of the most recognizable voices in maternal health, explaining how witnessing patient misunderstandings and birth trauma shaped her approach to education, advocacy, and storytelling. The conversation dives into the power of communication in the delivery room, the impact of social media on both patients and providers, and how “birth vibes”—the emotional and environmental experience of care—often matter more than any checklist birth plan. Blending humor, real-world clinical insight, and candid behind-the-scenes stories, this episode explores informed consent, elective inductions, and the importance of meeting patients where they are. It’s a nuanced look at modern birth culture, emphasizing that empowerment isn’t about rejecting care—it’s about understanding your options and choosing what’s right for you. Birth Vibes is now available here! Jen Hamilton's social media: @_Jen_Hamilton_ Dr. Fran's social media: @PagingDrFran
April 27 · 36 min
with @ICUBoy_MedEd: How Misinformation Can Land You In The ICU.
In this episode of I Did My Own Research, Dr. Fran sits down with triple board-certified intensivist and pulmonologist Dr. Mahmoud Ibrahim to unpack what’s really happening at the intersection of medicine, misinformation, and social media. They explore how dismissing patients’ online research can backfire—and why listening first may be the most powerful tool clinicians have. From ICU misconceptions and vaccine hesitancy to the emotional pull of viral health content, Dr. Ibrahim shares what it’s like to confront misinformation at the bedside, where the stakes are highest. Together, they dive into the ethics of medical content creation, the challenge of making evidence-based medicine engaging, and the growing distrust in expertise. They also tackle the bigger picture: how systemic barriers—not individual failures—drive poor health outcomes, and why blaming doctors misses the mark. This conversation is a candid look at modern medicine in the digital age—and a call for clinicians to meet patients where they are, not where we wish they’d be. Dr. Ibrahim's social media: @ICUBoy_MedEd Dr. Fran's social media: @PagingDrFran
April 20 · 48 min
with @DrCerissaKey: Pinworms, AI & Parenting in the Age of Misinformation
Dr. Fran is joined by board-certified pediatrician Dr. Cerissa Key to unpack the overwhelming world of pediatric and parenting misinformation—and how social media is both fueling and fighting it. From viral “wellness” trends to dangerous supplement misuse, they dive into why “natural” doesn’t always mean safe, and how even vitamins can cause real harm when misused. They explore the reality that parents often turn to the internet for guidance due to limited time in clinic visits—and how that gap is being filled by both credible experts and harmful misinformation. Dr. Key shares real patient stories that highlight the risks of unregulated supplements, emphasizing the importance of open, judgment-free communication between parents and pediatricians. The conversation also tackles vaccine hesitancy, the success—and unintended consequences—of modern medicine, and why preventative care is foundational in pediatrics. Plus, they get into the evolving challenges of parenting in the digital age, including AI, social media, and what kids are really exposed to today. With a mix of humor (yes, including pinworms) and practical insight, this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating parenting, pediatrics, or health information online. Dr. Cerissa Key's social media: @DrCerissaKey Dr. Fran's social media: @PagingDrFran
April 13 · 46 min
With @Lucky.Sekhon: The Dangerous Rise of Fertility Misinformation Online
Diminished ovarian reserve can feel deeply personal—and often deeply misunderstood. In this episode, Dr. Fran is joined by reproductive endocrinologist Dr. Lucky Sekhon to break down one of the most anxiety-provoking fertility topics online. Together, they unpack why egg count does not equal fertility, and how misinformation—especially around supplements, hormones, and “natural” fertility fixes—can lead patients further from their goals. They dive into the emotional toll of fertility testing, the dangers of unregulated supplements (including how some may actually work against conception), and why nuanced, evidence-based care matters more than ever in the age of social media. Dr. Sekhon also shares insights from her book The Lucky Egg, offering a realistic but hopeful perspective on fertility, IVF, and the importance of meeting patients where they are. This episode is both myth-busting and empowering—designed to help you better understand your body, your options, and how to navigate fertility information with clarity and confidence. Dr. Sekhon's social media: @Lucky.Sekhon Dr. Fran's social media: @PagingDrFran
April 6 · 38 min
with @ExamRoomNutrition: Why Everyone Thinks They’re a Nutrition Expert (and Why It’s Wrong)
This episode of I Did My Own Research dives into the world of nutrition misinformation and why it’s everywhere. Dr. Fran is joined by Colleen Sloan, PA-C and registered dietitian behind Exam Room Nutrition, to break down how social media has blurred the lines between evidence-based guidance and viral diet trends. They discuss why “everyone eats” — and therefore everyone feels like an expert — and how that leads to oversimplified, one-size-fits-all advice that ignores nuance and personalization. Colleen shares her unique perspective working at the intersection of medicine and nutrition, including real patient stories that highlight how harmful misinformation can be, especially for kids and teens. Together, they unpack the difference between a registered dietitian and a “nutritionist,” the rise of fear-based messaging around foods like seed oils and fruit, and how privilege and access shape the way we talk about “healthy eating.” They also explore how extreme diet trends, influencer marketing, and algorithm-driven content are impacting patient behavior in real life. This episode is a must-listen for anyone trying to make sense of nutrition advice online — and for clinicians who want to communicate more effectively with patients in a world full of misinformation. Colleen's social media: @ExamRoomNutrition Dr. Fran's social media: @PagingDrFran
March 30 · 35 min
with @Beachgem10: Viral Medicine, Being an Introvert Online, & Childhood Safety Lessons
In the first-ever in-person episode of I Did My Own Research, Dr. Fran sits down with pediatric emergency physician and viral educator Dr. Beachgem to talk about the real impact of medical misinformation—and what it’s like to fight it from both the ER and the internet. From building a platform during COVID to reaching millions with life-saving content, Dr. Beachgem shares how social media has transformed not only her career, but the way she practices medicine. Together, they dive into the emotional reality behind viral health topics—from vitamin K and vaccine hesitancy to the cases physicians can’t share but never forget. They explore the tension between education and engagement online, the ethics of “going viral,” and how fear-based content spreads faster than truth. Most importantly, this conversation highlights the human side of medicine: patients aren’t difficult—they’re scared, overwhelmed, and trying to make the best decisions they can with the information they have. This episode is a powerful reminder that behind every comment, every click, and every ER visit is a person just looking for reassurance—and a physician trying to meet them there. Dr. Beachgem's social media: @TheBeachGem10 Dr. Fran's social media: @PagingDrFran
March 26 · 31 min
with @ThePelvicDanceFloor: Kegels Myths & Why You Should Not Hover!
This week on I Did My Own Research, Dr. Fran is joined by pelvic floor physical therapist Alicia Jeffrey-Thomas (aka The Pelvic Dance Floor) to break down one of the most misunderstood areas of health online. From the myth that everyone should be doing Kegels to the reality that pelvic floor dysfunction isn’t one-size-fits-all, they unpack how viral “quick fixes” often miss the mark. Alicia explains why some people actually need to relax—not strengthen—their pelvic floor, and how individualized assessment is key. They also dive into the rise of social media education, the benefits (and limits) of at-home tools, and why even well-meaning advice from providers or the internet can lead to harm without proper context. If you’ve ever been told to “just do Kegels,” this episode will change the way you think about pelvic health. Alicia's social media: @ThePelvicDanceFloor Dr. Fran's social media: @PagingDrFran
March 23 · 45 min
with @TheBoobieDocs: on Mammogram Fear Mongering & Thermogram Scamming
In this episode of I Did My Own Research, Dr. Fran sits down with Dr. Robin Roth, breast radiologist and creator of “The Boobie Docs,” to tackle the growing problem of medical misinformation on social media—especially around breast cancer screening. They break down myths about mammograms, thermography, and dense breast tissue, and discuss how financial incentives often fuel harmful disinformation online. Dr. Roth shares her journey into social media, the challenges of speaking out against misinformation, and why educating patients before they enter the exam room is more important than ever. Together, they explore how physicians can balance evidence-based medicine with an algorithm that rewards controversy—and why showing up online can truly save lives. Dr. Roth's social media: @TheBoobieDocs Dr. Fran's social media: @PagingDrFran
March 19 · 40 min
with @DocfluencerMDO: On Medfluencing & Driving Real Change In Healthcare
Dr. Fran is joined by Dr. Olivia Richman to discuss the rise of physician influencers and the power of social media to drive real change in healthcare. Dr. Richman shares her journey from educating peers about sexual health to building Docfluencer MDO—a growing community of medical creators using their platforms to combat misinformation, amplify public health messaging, and advocate for reform. Together, they explore what makes a doctor credible online, the challenges of navigating digital spaces, and how collaboration can turn influence into impact. They also give a behind-the-scenes look at the upcoming Docfluencer conference in New York City, designed to bring healthcare creators together for connection, mentorship, and meaningful content creation. Dr. RIchman's social media: @DocFluencerMDO Dr. Fran's social media: @PagingDrFran

I Did My Own Research

with @DrShazmaMithani: Why "Natural" Doesn't Mean Safe

with @SleepDrChris: Does the Viral Sleepy Girl Mocktail Actually Work? And More!

with Liam (@ThePlantSlant): The Rotisserie Chicken Discourse Must Be Stopped

with @SarOBGYN: Birth Control Doesn't Ruin Your Life — Here's What Does

With @Pharmomacist: Decoding the OTC Medicine Aisle

with @DrPadgetSkogman: What the Research Really Says About Screens & Raising Healthy Kids

with @MelindaFrenchGates: Why Women's Health Deserves Funding

with @LadySpineDoc: what your MRI isn't telling you

with @The.Prenatal.RD: What Actually Helps Fertility? An RD Explains

with @FriendlyFamDoc: Why Doctors in Germany Can’t Create Content Like U.S. Physicians

with @KevinKlatt: Why MAHA Gets Nutrition Wrong & Big Wellness Keeps Missing the Point

with @JenHamilton: Labor Interventions, Birth Vibes & Social Media's Impact on Birthing

with @ICUBoy_MedEd: How Misinformation Can Land You In The ICU.

with @DrCerissaKey: Pinworms, AI & Parenting in the Age of Misinformation

With @Lucky.Sekhon: The Dangerous Rise of Fertility Misinformation Online

with @ExamRoomNutrition: Why Everyone Thinks They’re a Nutrition Expert (and Why It’s Wrong)

with @Beachgem10: Viral Medicine, Being an Introvert Online, & Childhood Safety Lessons

with @ThePelvicDanceFloor: Kegels Myths & Why You Should Not Hover!

with @TheBoobieDocs: on Mammogram Fear Mongering & Thermogram Scamming

with @DocfluencerMDO: On Medfluencing & Driving Real Change In Healthcare