Dr. Sanders brings on Shaunna and good friend, Chrizelle Ransom, to discuss the challenges of navigating medical information in the age of social media and algorithms. The discussion covers how attention-driven platforms reward controversy and “rage bait,” leading to viral misinformation that hooks people emotionally rather than logically. Dr. John and guests share personal experiences, such as how simple searches about household problems led to algorithmic spirals, and caution that seemingly harmless engagement can quickly expose users to harmful or misleading medical content.

The conversation also unpacks the psychological forces that make misinformation persuasive, including rhetoric, emotional appeals, and the phenomenon of “anti-expert bias,” where trained professionals are dismissed while influencers with little expertise gain trust simply by being relatable. Shaunna and Chrizelle note how historic failures within medicine and the healthcare system’s time constraints have eroded public trust, making people more vulnerable to misinformation and bias. But John counters that building trust through humility, time, and genuine listening emerges as a critical counterbalance.

Finally, the podcast emphasizes both patient and provider humility. Patients must recognize their own biases and stay open to trustworthy guidance, while providers should communicate transparently and admit uncertainty where it exists. The episode closes by highlighting practical tools, such as examine.com for supplement evidence and Open Evidence AI for accessing peer-reviewed medical data, which can help both providers and patients sift through the noise of online health information to make better, evidence-based decisions.

Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice nor as a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the a​​dvice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.