Len May, CEO of Endo DNA and host of "Everything is Personal," joins Maynard and ToV Breslow on "Mamish Mavericks" to discuss precision wellness, DNA testing, and the intersection of Jewish identity with entrepreneurship.
Born in Lithuania and now based in Los Angeles, Len shares his personal journey, including his connection to Judaism through Kabbalah and his experiences navigating anti-Semitism post-October 7th. The conversation delves into the cannabis industry's innovations, particularly those originating from Israel, and the role of DNA testing in personalized health.
Key Takeaways:
1. Personal Journey and Identity:
- Len Mei discusses his background as an immigrant from Lithuania and his reconnection to his Jewish identity through Kabbalah.
- He reflects on the rise in anti-Semitism and how it has strengthened his commitment to being openly Jewish and supportive of Israel.
2. Cannabis Industry Innovations:
- Israel has been a pioneer in cannabis research, discovering the endocannabinoid system and advancing medical cannabis applications.
- The industry owes much to Israeli researchers like Dr. Michoulom and Lumir, who have significantly contributed to understanding cannabinoids.
3. DNA Testing and Precision Wellness:
- Endo DNA offers personalized health protocols by analyzing genetic predispositions, helping individuals avoid or mitigate adverse events.
- The company uses AI to enhance predictive inferences and provide tailored recommendations for supplements, nutrients, and lifestyle changes.
4. Endocannabinoid System:
- Discovered in 1992, the endocannabinoid system plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis within the body.
- Phytocannabinoids from cannabis can bind to receptors (CB1 and CB2) in the body, influencing mood, pain, and immune response.
5. Making Cannabis Personal:
- Len's book, "Making Cannabis Personal," explores his journey with ADD, the black market cannabis era, and real-life stories of individuals finding relief through personalized cannabis formulations.
- The book emphasizes the importance of understanding one's genetic makeup to find the right cannabis formulation.
6. Upcoming Projects:
- Endo DNA is exploring potential mergers to expand its ecosystem, including lab testing and product development beyond cannabis.
- An upcoming menopause biotype test, developed with Dr. Jennifer Berman, aims to help women mitigate adverse effects during menopause.
This episode highlights the convergence of technology, health, and cultural identity, offering insights into how precision wellness can transform individual health journeys.