Mike Rinder, former Scientology exec who became an Emmy-winning whistleblower, dies at 69

Mike Rinder, a former senior executive with the Church of Scientology who later pivoted to criticizing the controversial religious organization publicly with a blog, a podcast and a docuseries co-starring ex-member Leah Remini, has died. He was 69.

The Emmy winner posted about his own impending death Sunday on his personal blog, announcing that the missive — titled “Farewell” — would be the last post on his website.

“I have shuffled off this mortal coil in accordance with the immutable law that there are only two certainties in life: death and taxes,” his message said, adding, “I rest in peace.”

“My only real regret is not having achieved what I said I wanted to — ending the abuses of Scientology, especially disconnection and seeing [my son] Jack into adulthood,” the whistleblower wrote. “If you are in any way fighting to end those abuses please keep the flag flying — never give up.”

The Tampa Bay Times reported that Rinder died Sunday in Palm Harbor, Fla., due to esophageal cancer.

Rinder — who appeared in the bombshell 2015 documentary “Going Clear” and produced and appeared in the subsequent A&E docuseries “Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath” — said his website would remain active as an archive with more than 4,000 posts. He described the site as “a labor of love and passion which has allowed me to speak my mind and offer my perspective with no outside filters.”

“I have been lucky — living two lives in one lifetime. The second one the most wonderful years anyone could wish for with all of you and my new family!” he added.

In a message cross-posted on Rinder’s Instagram page, his wife, Christie, confirmed his death.

“I speak for so many when I say the sadness and pain we feel mirror the depth of our unwavering love for you,” she wrote. “Your courage, bravery, and integrity are unmatched and will forever inspire us. You have been the pillar of stability in our lives, filling our days with your strength, wisdom, love, laughter and devotion. The world will remember you. My best friend, my hero, my love, Michael John Rinder.”

Journalist Tony Ortega, who has long covered Scientology, announced in a June 2023 post on his Underground Bunker blog that Rinder had advanced esophageal cancer.

“Mike Rinder sent us an email today, to let us know that he had shuffled off this mortal coil,” Ortega tweeted Sunday. “That was so like him, thoughtful to the end. We’re just coming to grips with this news.”

Remini posted about visiting Rinder in Florida in December amid his cancer battle and praised the community that mobilized to care for him and his family during his final days. The “King of Queens” star has not yet posted publicly about Rinder’s death, and her representative did not immediately respond Monday to The Times’ request for comment.

Rinder was born on April 19, 1955, in Adelaide, Australia. He was raised as a Scientologist after his parents joined the organization when he was about 6. He said that he “finally escaped the organization” in 2007 when he was 52, publicly speaking out against it in an investigative series for the St. Petersburg Times in 2009.

As a child, he traveled with his family from Australia to England twice in the 1960s to visit the home of sci-fi writer and Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard. His parents participated in advanced Scientology courses and auditing — or counseling — and he joined the senior-level Sea Organization when he graduated from high school in April 1973.

“This is the dedicated core of scientology, Sea Org members sign a billion year commitment to forward the aims of scientology and live communally with other Sea Org members, pretty much out of touch with the outside world,” Rinder said on his website.

He said that as an adult he first met Hubbard, a God-like figure in the organization, in October 1973 aboard Hubbard’s ship Apollo. He remained in Sea Org until 2007, getting married and having two children who were born into Sea Org branches based in Clearwater, Fla., and in Hemet.

The “A Billion Years” author said he and his first wife, Cathy, divorced after he left the church and his mother, daughter Taryn and son Benjamin “disconnected” from him, along with his brother, sister and members of their family.

The ex-member accused Sea Org of fostering a culture of “violence and abuse that had become endemic” under the leadership of Hubbard successor David Miscavige, who took over when Hubbard died in 1986.

“While Hubbard had been unpredictable, sometimes cruel and harsh and other times humorous and compassionate, Miscavige was exclusively cruel and harsh. He had seized power and held onto it ruthlessly,” Rinder wrote on his website.

During the 1980s, Rinder became the executive director of Office of Special Affairs and a public-facing representative for the organization. He handled media and public relations and said he oversaw much litigation for and against the church, dealing with “the so-called enemies” of Scientology and directing their “destruction.” During that time, he said, the church coordinated smear and intimidation campaigns against journalists, former members and critics of Scientology.

More recently, Rinder served as a source for the The Times on stories about the high-profile trials of actor Danny Masterson and director Paul Haggis, who have both been affiliated with the church. The church has publicly denounced Rinder and Remini, who testified on ex-member Haggis’ behalf, and said that they “have no credibility” and make up lies about the church for money. The organization has also waged a campaign to cut down Rinder’s credibility and said he was removed from the church “in total disgrace” by its ecclesiastical leader, “stripped of any authority and ultimately expelled for gross malfeasance.”

Representatives for the church did not immediately respond Monday to The Times request for comment.

Rinder is survived by his second wife, Christie, their son Jack and Christie’s son Shane. In lieu of flowers, he asked that contributions be made Jack’s college fund.

“Let the flowers grow and look to the future,” Rinder wrote on his website.

Megyn Kelly unloads on Golden Globe-nominated ‘Conclave’ as…

Megyn Kelly unloaded on the Golden Globe-nominated movie “Conclave” — then scolded the actors who starred in the “anti-Catholic” film in a spoiler-fileld takedown.

The movie, which stands at a 93% fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes, follows religious leaders as they work to select the new pope while unearthing dark secrets and corruption within the Roman Catholic Church. The film, nominated in six Golden Globes categories, is based on the 2016 novel by Robert Harris.

Kelly took to X ahead of the Golden Globes Sunday evening to criticize the film and scold the actors who starred in it.

“Just made the huge mistake of watching the much-celebrated “Conclave” & it is the most disgusting anti-Catholic film I have seen in a long time,” the media personality said. “Shame on Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci & John Lithgow for starring in it & shame on director Edward Berger (among others). ‘Spoiler:’ They make THE POPE INTERSEX!”

“There are almost no redeeming characters in the movie – every cardinal is morally bankrupt/repulsive,” she went on. “The only exception of course is the intersex pope (who – surprise! – has female reproductive parts) & the cardinal who keeps her secret – bc of course that kind of Catholic secret-keeping must be lionized.

“I’m disgusted. What a thing to release to streaming just in time for Christmas. They would never do this to Muslims, but Christians/Catholics are always fair game to mock/belittle/smear.”

“Conclave” is up for Original Score, Screenplay of a Motion Picture, and Drama Motion Picture. Director Edward Berger, actor Ralph Fiennes and supporting actress Isabella Rossellini were also nominated.

Kelly’s post saw a mixed response from her fans across all religions.

“Try being Mormon (church of Jesus Christ). It’s a double whammy: Christian which a lot of other Christians make fun of. We get it from both sides,” one user wrote.

Others broke with Kelly and bashed the Vatican and Pope as “corrupt.”

“They are not what you think they are,” said one user. “They don’t represent Christ. Huge difference between being a Christian and what they are doing in the Vatican.”

Navigating the New Frontier: The Rise of Tenofovir Alafenamide in Hepatitis B Treatment

Shifting gears in the treatment landscape of chronic hepatitis B, healthcare professionals are increasingly turning their attention to the transition from entecavir (ETV) to tenofovir alafenamide (TAF). This strategic switch has kicked up a storm of curiosity—especially as recent studies peel back the layers on the efficacy, safety, and long-term implications of these antiviral therapies. It’s like watching a chess game unfold—every move calculated, each potential outcome considered.

Take a look at the cumulative incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a primary concern for patients battling this chronic condition. Researchers harnessed Kaplan-Meier curves to glean critical insights, and what emerged was quite telling. In the continuation group on ETV, two patients developed HCC—an alarming statistic, but notably, the difference in incidence between those sticking with ETV and those who switched to TAF didn’t reach significance, landing at a p-value of 0.08. This figure—a number grounded in statistics—hides a human story, particularly when the affected individuals were relatively young men, grappling with advanced fibrosis and low platelet counts. The intertwining of these factors with treatment outcomes is fascinating and warrants deeper exploration.

Now, let’s talk about TAF—often hailed as the safer sibling in the class of nucleic acid analogs. Recent studies show that TAF boasts a lower incidence of adverse effects like renal dysfunction and diminished bone density, making it a compelling choice for patients concerned about long-term health. The evidence is stacking up, and it’s hard to ignore. Sure, at the 48-week mark, TDF (tenofovir disoproxil fumarate) might outpace ETV in HBsAg-lowering effects, but TAF is proving itself a formidable contender in this treatment arena. We might be looking at a new dawn in hepatitis B care—one that prioritizes not just efficacy, but safety as well.

However, even with promising data, the journey toward effective treatment is not without its bumps. The decline in HB core-related antigen (HBcrAg) levels observed during the study left much to be desired. So, while the numbers might tell one story, the nuanced reality of patient experiences reminds us that this is far from a simple matter.

The implications of these findings ripple outward, touching various aspects of patient care, treatment planning, and long-term management strategies. As the medical community continues to weigh the advantages and potential pitfalls of these therapies, one thing becomes clear—it’s not just about switching medications. It’s about ensuring that patients receive the most effective and safest care possible, tailored uniquely to their circumstances.

As we stand at this crossroads in hepatitis B treatment, there’s an undeniable excitement in the air—an anticipation of what the future might hold. With TAF emerging as a viable alternative, patients and providers alike are charged with the task of navigating this evolving landscape, armed with knowledge, research, and an unyielding commitment to better health outcomes.

Megyn Kelly fired up over papal-election drama ‘Conclave,’ spoils the ending

The conservative commentator also spoils the film’s ending in a fiery social media post.

Megyn Kelly is dabbling in film criticism by sharing her reaction to Edward Berger’s much-lauded new film, Conclave.

The BAFTA-nominated thriller stars Ralph Fiennes as a cardinal who uncovers secrets and scandal within the Vatican while organizing a papal conclave to elect the next pope. The film arrived to critical acclaim when it premiered at last year’s Telluride Film Festival. Since its October debut in theaters, it has continued to garner praise, making it a likely Oscar contender during this year’s awards season.

But Kelly made it clear Sunday that she doesn’t understand the fervor.

“Just made the huge mistake of watching the much-celebrated Conclave & it is the most disgusting anti-Catholic film I have seen in a long time,” the former Fox News anchor wrote in an X post, in which she (be warned) spoils the ending of the film. “Shame on Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci & John Lithgow for starring in it & shame on director Edward Berger (among others).”

Among her issues with the film, the Megyn Kelly Show host pointed to the twist ending, which we won’t spoil here.

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“There are almost no redeeming characters in the movie – every cardinal is morally bankrupt/repulsive,” Kelly wrote. The only exception, she notes, is the underdog candidate whose secret further tests Fiennes’ Cardinal Lawrence — Dean of the College of Cardinals — who has been having a crisis of faith as he convenes the meeting of men from around the world to select a new leader of the church.

Kelly, who wrote that she feels “disgusted,” added, “They would never do this to Muslims, but Christians/Catholics are always fair game to mock/belittle/smear.”

Entertainment Weekly’s review of the film praises the film’s end note: “Much of the film interrogates the gap between the Catholic Church’s sins and the true meaning of faith — but nothing does it more so than this final surprise which seeks to see us all as the creatures that God made us, existing in the space between the world’s certainties.”

For his part, Fiennes previously made the case to EW that the film, penned by Peter Straughan based on Robert Harris’ book of the same name, is filled with morally complex characters. Of his role as Cardinal Lawrence, Fiennes said, “He’s a man of spiritual integrity, and I thought that the screenplay portrayed that really well.”

He continued, “It wasn’t sentimental. It showed fallibility; it showed doubt; it showed the humanness. It was neither a cynical takedown or satire on the Vatican, nor was it preaching and overly religious…. The big question is: Who is worthy? Who is the right person to become Pope? Who will have the spiritual foundation and integrity to hold that position?”

Amy Dowden: Dancing Through Adversity with Unbreakable Spirit and Resilience

Amy Dowden has become a beacon of resilience—her journey from a stage three breast cancer diagnosis to the spotlight of the dance floor illustrates a narrative that goes beyond mere survival; it’s a dance of tenacity and passion. Diagnosed in May 2023, Dowden faced this brutal reality with a fierce spirit, vowing not to let cancer dictate the rhythm of her life. When she triumphantly announced in February 2024 that there was “no evidence of disease,” it was more than a personal victory; it was a testament to modern medicine intertwined with relentless human willpower—and a reminder that the fight against adversity can indeed lead to triumphant moments.

But the road hasn’t been a smooth glide across the dance floor—oh no, it’s been more like a complex choreography filled with unexpected turns. Just as Dowden began to regain her footing, she faced yet another setback: a stress fracture in her shin. Talk about hitting the floor hard—just when you think you’ve perfected your routine, life throws you a curveball. “Life can be unpredictable; just when you think you’ve nailed the routine, you trip over your own feet,” Dowden reflected. This sentiment rings true for many; in a blink, our well-laid plans can change course, forcing us to adapt or risk being left behind.

Her journey isn’t just about her battles; it’s also about her proactive approach towards motherhood. Navigating the challenges posed by chemotherapy, she opted for an egg retrieval procedure—a power move that keeps her dreams alive amidst the storm of cancer treatment. “We would love a family, and we’ve got embryos,” she candidly shared on the What If? podcast. This choice showcases not just her foresight but her fierce commitment to preserving her future against all odds—a symbol of hope blooming even in the harshest conditions.

As Dowden reflects on the emotional rollercoaster of the past year, her insights resonate deeply. “This time last year, we were about to go through a rollercoaster,” she poignantly noted, capturing the essence of the unpredictability we all face. Her mother’s words echo through this tumultuous chapter, reminding her—and us—that “the fact you’re still here is everything.” Survival isn’t merely about existing; it’s an accomplishment in its own right, and Dowden’s response to her challenges embodies this spirit.

Since joining the Strictly Come Dancing family in 2017, Dowden has captivated audiences with her vibrant energy and sheer passion. Even a health scare that disrupted her journey on the 2023 series could not dim her light. With renewed ambition, she gears up to return alongside JLS’s JB Gill in the highly anticipated 2024 series. Yet, life has its own script—another hurdle emerged in the form of an injury, which Dowden emphasized had “nothing to do with any previous health scares.” And there you have it—life’s unpredictability strikes again.

As the countdown to the live tour begins, one truth stands out starkly—Dowden’s journey is an unwavering testament to her dedication to reclaiming not just her dancing career, but her very essence. In a world that often idolizes unattainable perfection, her story serves as a refreshing reminder of authentic resilience. Every step she prepares to take back on stage isn’t just a return; it’s a celebration of her indomitable spirit.

Dowden embodies the beautiful intersection of athleticism and human experience—the unpredictable dance of life. None of us can foresee the challenges lurking just around the corner, but her relentless determination to pursue her dreams—and perhaps one day create the family she longs for—reminds us all that even within the chaos, there’s always a rhythm waiting to be uncovered.

Amy Dowden: Dancing Through Adversity and Embracing Hope with Every Step

Amy Dowden’s journey through the world of dance is nothing short of remarkable, a tale threaded with resilience and tenacity that defies the very notion of defeat. Diagnosed with stage three breast cancer in May 2023, the vibrant Strictly Come Dancing star faced a battle that many could only fathom. With her world tumbling down around her, Dowden emerged not only as a survivor but as a beacon for others navigating their own turbulent storms. In February 2024, she announced, “no evidence of disease,” a triumphant declaration that reverberated through the hearts of her admirers and supporters—she wasn’t just back; she was back with a vengeance.

Yet, as is often the case in life’s unpredictable dance, her path was riddled with hurdles. Just as she stood on the cusp of a much-anticipated return to Strictly, a stress fracture in her shin delivered yet another blow—an unexpected twist in what had already been an emotional choreography of challenges. This injury, as she revealed, forced her to reassess and pause—a necessary beat that led her to reflect on what it meant to grapple with limitations. “It’s a moment to regroup,” she remarked, a sentiment that captures the essence of transformation amid adversity.

In the face of chemotherapy’s uncertain shadows hovering over future family plans, Dowden made a courageous choice alongside her husband, fellow dancer Ben Jones—opting for an egg retrieval procedure, a decision steeped in hope. “We would love a family, and we’ve got embryos,” she shared candidly during a discussion on the What If? podcast with Lorraine Kelly and her daughter, Rosie. In the chaos of her health battle, this aspiration cast a flickering light, a promise of normalcy and dreams yet to be realized.

Reflecting on the whirlwind of the past year, Dowden labeled her experience a “rollercoaster,” encapsulating the relentless pursuit of survival and the grit required to navigate life’s unpredictable twists. This proclamation resonated deeply, echoing her mother’s poignant mantra—“the fact you’re still here is everything.” Dowden’s story becomes more than personal; it embodies the struggles many face while championing the spirit of perseverance that often goes uncelebrated.

Since first captivating audiences on Strictly in 2017 with her infectious spirit and unwavering determination, Dowden has shown that she’s not just a performer—she’s a force of nature. The 2023 season, however, came crashing down with health challenges that abruptly halted her series journey. Yet, with renewed vigor and the anticipation of collaborating with JLS star JB Gill on the horizon, she stands ready to reclaim her rightful place in the spotlight. Alas, life had other plans; the newly diagnosed injury posed yet another obstacle, one that Dowden was quick to clarify bore no relation to her previous health issues. “Expect the unexpected,” she seems to say, a reminder that resilience is a muscle forged through adversity.

As Dowden gears up for the eagerly awaited Strictly live tour, her passion for dance shines like a beacon amid the night—a testament that setbacks are not finality but rather the carving of new paths and beginnings. In a world that often sanitizes the narrative of health and recovery, her candid account stands tall as a powerful reminder of the human spirit’s tenacity.

Amy Dowden is more than a dancer; she is an embodiment of hope for anyone wrestling with life’s unpredictable symphony. Her journey is a vivid illustration of how dreams can flicker even in the darkest of times, a rhythmic dance of courage that captures the essence of what it means to triumph against all odds. With her sights set on the future—a future that includes dreams of starting a family—she fiercely reminds us that even amid chaos, there’s an unyielding rhythm waiting to be embraced.

Breakfast: The Underrated Powerhouse or Just a Fad? Fuel Your Morning Right!

Breakfast—the meal that can either make or break your day—has become a hotbed of debate, straddling the fine line between tradition and modern dietary fads. For some, it’s a cherished ritual, a morning celebration of eggs, bacon, and toast. For others, it’s a skipped step on the path to perceived health and weight loss. As more and more people jump on the intermittent fasting bandwagon, the question arises: Is breakfast worth the hype, or is it simply a relic of the past? Dr. Emily Leeming, a dietitian at King’s College London, finds herself in the thick of this breakfast battle, defending the meal’s significance amid conflicting perspectives. “People get very passionate about breakfast,” she states—passion indeed! One camp extols the virtues of a hearty breakfast, while the other cautions against eating until later in the day. The intermittent fasting enthusiasts assure us that this skipping strategy leads to weight loss and improved metabolic health, but does the science back that up? Not so fast.,The truth is, the research is tangled—like your earphones after a long day in your pocket. Leeming points out that while a shorter eating window can correlate with a lower body mass index (BMI), its effectiveness relies heavily on timing. Eating in alignment with daylight hours—consuming meals early and wrapping up by nightfall—may be essential for maximizing metabolic function and overall health. “It’s most effective when that window aligns with daylight hours,” she explains. Well, there you have it! It seems we might need to get back in sync with Mother Nature here.,We live in a world obsessed with counting calories, but Leeming advocates for a broader vision. “We need to shift the conversation away from simply reducing calories,” she asserts, “because what is health? It’s also feeling great.” Does that resonate with you? It should—after all, health isn’t just about numbers on a scale; it’s about how we feel in our own skin. Shunning breakfast might seem like a shortcut to achieving that elusive number on the scale, but the repercussions could be more detrimental than you think. Research has indicated that individuals who frequently skip breakfast might miss out on critical nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Instead of a boost of energy, they may find themselves craving unhealthy snacks later on—a pattern linked to rising rates of depression and stress. “If you have the means, would you ever think about sending a child to school without breakfast?” Leeming challenges. Great question! Why should we expect any different from adults?,Now, let’s address those who claim to thrive on an empty stomach. It’s true—some individuals report higher energy levels when they skip breakfast. But what if those people are ignoring hunger cues, using caffeine as a makeshift fuel? “Using coffee as a crutch in the morning and wondering why they crash at 4 PM,” Leeming quips, hitting the nail on the head. Sound familiar? Instead of skipping breakfast, we could focus on a more sustainable strategy: nourishing our bodies with a well-rounded meal rich in fiber and protein. According to Leeming, eating mindfully not only satiates hunger but helps fend off those pesky cravings that often derail our best intentions.,As the health and wellness conversation continues to evolve, the discussion about breakfast remains vital. While some may opt to skip this morning meal, we’d be wise to heed the age-old wisdom surrounding it. Perhaps the key lies not in the numbers we obsess over, but in providing our bodies with the wholesome, satisfying fuel they truly need to power through our busy lives. So, what’s it going to be? Will you join the breakfast brigade, or will you keep waving the fasting flag? Either way, it’s time to stop and ask ourselves: what does our body really need?

Fuel Your Fire: Why Breakfast is the Unsung Hero of Your Health Journey

Breakfast — once revered as the crown jewel of meals, has become a battleground in the war of dietary philosophies. On one side, the breakfast traditionalists, steadfast and proud, extolling the virtues of a hearty morning spread. On the other, the fasting advocates, sprouting new-age claims that skipping this morning ritual can lead to weight loss and improved metabolic health. So, where do we stand in this melee? Let’s dig into the science and the wisdom of nutrition experts to unveil the truth behind this breakfast conundrum.,Dr. Emily Leeming, a dietitian at King’s College London, isn’t shy about her stance — she believes our ancestors were on the right track when they pressed their forks into a breakfast plate. Her insight cuts through the noise surrounding intermittent fasting, which has garnered a following that suggests delaying breakfast can lead to lower body mass index (BMI) and a slew of other health benefits. Yet, here’s where it gets tricky: while some studies link shorter eating windows to lower BMI, Leeming argues that timing is everything. It turns out, eating earlier in the day and wrapping up meals before sunset aligns better with our body’s natural rhythms — and that’s a game-changer.,“We need to shift the conversation away from simply reducing calories,” Leeming asserts, “because what is health? It’s also about feeling great.” Her words resonate deeply in a world where many are laser-focused on numbers rather than overall well-being. The repercussions of skipping breakfast go beyond just feeling peckish several hours later. Research has shown that for those who eschew the morning meal, there’s often a missing piece — a deficit of fiber, essential minerals, and vitamins in their diets. What’s more? These breakfast-skippers tend to indulge in unhealthy snacks later in the day, leading to a vicious cycle of cravings and energy slumps.,And let’s not gloss over the mental health aspect. Skipping breakfast has been correlated with increased risks of depression and stress. “If you have the means, would you ever think about sending a child to school without breakfast?” Leeming challenges, a poignant reminder of how we prioritize nourishment. The very nature of breakfast — it’s a chance to fuel your body and mind for the day ahead. Why then, she asks, should that responsibility shift when we reach adulthood?,Now, for all of you who claim to feel like champions when you skip breakfast, let’s hit the brakes for a moment. Sure, there are outliers who feel energized. But as Leeming points out, many are simply masking hunger with caffeine — that 10 a.m. cup of joe serves as a false fuel, a crutch that might just lead to an afternoon crash. She encourages those who find themselves in this trap to rethink their mornings. Try waking up and breaking your fast with something high in fiber and protein, savored slowly. This simple act can lead to fewer cravings and sustained energy levels throughout the day.,The debate rages on, but one thing is crystal clear: breakfast is not just about calories. It’s about fueling your body for success, sustaining energy levels, and fueling mental clarity. In this age of intermittent fasting and fluctuating dietary trends, perhaps it’s time we roll up our sleeves, get back to the basics, and ditch the dogma for a moment.

Breakfast: The Battle for Your Morning Fuel – Why Skipping It Might Be Sabotaging Your Success

Breakfast — a meal that has sparked debate and division among nutrition aficionados everywhere. Once celebrated as the supreme meal of the day, it now finds itself in the crosshairs of modern dietary philosophies. On one side, the breakfast traditionalists, champions of a robust morning feast, advocate for the energy and nutrients that a well-prepared breakfast can supply. On the flip side, the fasting advocates sing the praises of skipping breakfast, touting potential benefits like weight loss and improved metabolic health. So, where do we stand in this culinary tug-of-war? Let’s peel back the layers and get to the heart of this breakfast conundrum.,Dr. Emily Leeming, a prominent dietitian at King’s College London, staunchly defends the breakfast brigade — insisting that our ancestors knew what they were doing when they dug into their morning meals. “We need to shift the conversation away from simply reducing calories,” she asserts, challenging the notion that cutting out breakfast can lead to a slimmer waistline. Instead, she purports that the timing of our meals is crucial. Eating earlier in the day and wrapping things up before sunset aligns with our body’s natural rhythms — a game-changing insight that could alter how we perceive meal timing.,Leeming’s perspective strikes a chord in a culture increasingly obsessed with numbers: calories, macros, and BMI — metrics that, while useful, can overshadow the essence of health. Health isn’t solely about statistics; it’s about how you feel. The ramifications of skipping breakfast resonate beyond just physical hunger. Research indicates a troubling trend: those who forgo breakfast often miss out on vital fiber, essential minerals, and vitamins. What’s more? Breakfast-skippers tend to compensate with unhealthy snacks later in the day, triggering an endless cycle of cravings and energy crashes — a vicious loop that spirals many into unhealthy habits.,But let’s not overlook the mental health ramifications of neglecting breakfast. Studies have shown correlations between skipping the morning meal and increased risks of depression and stress. “If you have the means, would you ever think about sending a child to school without breakfast?” Leeming provocatively asks, a reminder of how we often overlook our own needs as adults while ensuring our kids are nourished. Breakfast isn’t just fuel; it’s an opportunity to set the tone for our day, to equip ourselves with the mental clarity and energy required to tackle whatever lies ahead.,Now, for all of you who revel in the idea of skipping breakfast — let’s hit the brakes and reconsider. Sure, there are outliers who claim to thrive on an empty stomach. But many of these self-proclaimed champions merely mask their hunger with caffeine — that faithful cup of joe at 10 a.m. may serve as less of an energizing elixir and more of a perilous crutch. Dr. Leeming offers a simple yet transformative piece of advice for those caught in this trap: begin your day with something high in fiber and protein, savored slowly. This small act can help stabilize your energy levels, ultimately resulting in fewer cravings throughout the day.,The breakfast debate continues, but one thing stands out: breakfast transcends mere caloric intake. It embodies a holistic approach to well-being, fueling our bodies for success and sustaining mental acuity. In an era crowded with dietary fads and intermittent fasting trends, maybe it’s time to roll up our sleeves, recenter our focus, and return to the basics — forsaking dogma in favor of nourishment.

Women’s Healthcare: The Untapped Goldmine Ready for Investment and Innovation

Women’s healthcare, a sector that has long lingered in the shadows of the medical industry, is finally stepping into the spotlight—set to transform dramatically by 2025. But let’s not kid ourselves: despite increased awareness and funding, we are still operating in a landscape that’s dramatically underserved. It’s not simply a health crisis; it’s a goldmine of economic potential waiting to be tapped. The urgent need for collaboration across the board—from policymakers and investors to employers—has never been clearer if we are to unlock the true innovation this field desperately needs.,In a powerful statement, Carolee Lee, CEO and founder of WHAM (Women’s Health Access Matters), brings the numbers home: “We’re 52% of the population, but we’ve [VCs] only invested 2%.” With the Biden administration injecting a billion dollars into women’s healthcare research, the ball is rolling, but we need far more than a mere nudge to catch up.,Let’s talk about the staggering research gaps. Did you know that only 4% of funding is directed towards heart disease in women? Yes, the very condition that claims more lives than any other—affecting sixty million women in the U.S. alone. It’s nothing short of criminal that this disparity exists. As Lee puts it succinctly, “If you double that small number [$350 million], you get a return of $14 billion to the economy.” Who wouldn’t be on board with that kind of ROI?,Moreover, menopause—a pivotal stage in women’s lives—has finally begun to receive the attention it so rightly deserves. Projected to blossom into an $18.56 billion market in 2025, the conversations surrounding this issue are essential for enhancing women’s quality of life. It’s about time we started recognizing and addressing the realities women face during and after menopause.,And let’s not forget autoimmune conditions, a field that remains shrouded in mystery despite the fact that 80% of those affected are women. As Kathryn Schubert, president and CEO of the Society for Women’s Health Research, highlighted, “If you look at something like lupus in particular, that’s a much higher rate for women of color.” Delving into these research voids is vital—we owe it to millions of women dealing with these often debilitating conditions.,Financially speaking, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The cost of just four diseases—lung cancer, Alzheimer’s, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and cardiovascular disease—translates to nearly $1 trillion for the U.S. economy. It’s a no-brainer: investing in women’s healthcare is an economic necessity, not just a compassionate endeavor.,With a shift in the administration, the focus will likely veer towards the Department of Defense, potentially opening new pathways for addressing military women’s healthcare needs. As Liz Powell puts it, “I think there will be opportunities to address military service women’s health needs.” Legislative action is paramount—this isn’t just about securing funding; it’s about maintaining women’s health as a priority.,Naseem Sayani, a VC investor, elaborates on the role of policy changes in boosting investment in women’s healthcare. Adjusting reimbursement codes and streamlining AI regulations aren’t just bureaucratic maneuvers; they are crucial steps to invigorate this sector.,All these efforts hinge on a robust collaboration—a triad formed by researchers, policymakers, and investors. Lee emphasizes that data, policy, and private investment are the cornerstones for progress.,The venture capital landscape is indeed shifting. After a downturn since its peak in 2021, the tides are turning with an uptick in 2023-2024. VC investors are optimistic, anticipating a surge in funding by 2025. Yet, instead of stifling investment, regulatory constraints have inadvertently sparked a wave of interest and funding into the women’s healthcare sector. The emergence of focused funds and unicorn success stories like Maven—a potential IPO this year—are validating this market’s promise.,To amplify this momentum, WHAM’s High-Impact Investment Collaborative aims to catalyze investment in women’s healthcare innovation significantly. This initiative is no small feat; it’s an ambitious effort to awaken the vast potential of the women’s healthcare market, uniting big-name investment firms to accelerate diagnostics, treatments, and preventative measures.,Moreover, employers can play a pivotal role. By prioritizing benefits that encompass fertility, motherhood, and even menopause, companies not only showcase their commitment to employee well-being but also contribute to a more engaged workforce. As Schubert wisely points out, “If we were to invest a little bit more on those sides of things, you probably would have better productivity.”,Technology, particularly AI, stands on the precipice of revolutionizing women’s healthcare. Imagine improved diagnostics and treatments, especially for underserved areas—it’s not just a dream; it’s a tangible future.,However, let’s not be naive; challenges remain. The road ahead demands rigorous efforts to address research disparities while ensuring that legislative action remains steadfast. Without collaborative efforts and the integration of technology, we risk falling short of realizing this pivotal moment in women’s healthcare—one that promises not only enhancement in health outcomes but also economic prosperity.