Episode Details

What if many of the answers to better health have nothing to do with another prescription?

In this thought-provoking episode, Drs. May and Tim Hindmarsh sit down with Emma Tekstra, actuary, global health consultant, and author of How to Be a Healthy Human, to challenge conventional assumptions about modern healthcare. Drawing on decades of experience analyzing health data and employee health programs, Emma shares why she believes true wellness requires a broader perspective than symptom management alone.

The conversation explores personal responsibility, critical thinking, chronic disease trends, the business side of healthcare, and the often-overlooked roles of lifestyle, community, purpose, and spiritual wellbeing. Whether you agree with every point or simply enjoy examining healthcare through a different lens, this episode offers plenty to consider.

In This Episode

• Emma's journey from actuary to health advocate
• Why she began questioning conventional approaches to chronic illness
• The difference between healthcare and true wellness
• How lifestyle choices influence long-term health outcomes
• The role of critical thinking in healthcare decisions
• Why social connection and purpose matter for longevity
• Data-driven perspectives on modern health trends
• The concept of taking ownership of your health journey
• Lessons from researching health and longevity around the world
• What inspired her book, How to Be a Healthy Human

About Emma Tekstra

Emma Tekstra is an actuary, global health consultant, educator, and author of How to Be a Healthy Human: What Your Doctor Doesn't Know About Health and Longevity. A Fellow of the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries, she spent more than two decades advising major employers on healthcare and benefits strategy before focusing her work on helping individuals and organizations better understand what drives human health and wellbeing.

Resources & Links

• Emma Tekstra: https://www.emmatekstra.com
• Emma's Substack: https://emmatekstra.substack.com
• How to Be a Healthy Human: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1510779507

Listen and Subscribe

Website: https://www.bsfreemd.com

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Disclaimer

The content of this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Listening to this podcast does not establish a physician-patient relationship. Always consult your own healthcare professional regarding medical decisions.

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