Friends of RUNGA: Dr. Michael Ruscio

“When you don’t feel well, it impacts virtually every part of your life.”

We checked in with Dr. Michael Ruscio, DC since he first attended RUNGA last year. As a Naturopathic Practitioner, Doctor of Chiropractic, clinical researcher and author, he purposefully hones in on the gut to improve multiple facets of health, including energy, sleep, mood, and thyroid optimization. We thoroughly enjoyed hearing the personal story behind his intention for his practice and the role that community plays in his life.

How did you first become interested in health & wellness?

I was always interested in health and fitness as someone who grew up playing sports. I was starting to dial in on exercise and nutrition as my career path, but in college I got an intestinal parasite that put a halt to everything. It made me appreciate just how crucial—and overlooked—feeling healthy is. When you don’t feel well, it impacts virtually every part of your life. Healing from that parasite inspired me to focus more on gut health, specifically because I learned first-hand just how foundational it is.

What motivated you to pursue your health & wellness business?

Going through a personal health issue and being able to recover was something I wanted to help others with. So I started a lot of different channels of doing that—the clinic, writing articles, my podcast, research, my book—to try to reach people however I could, in the way they wanted to be reached. It’s an honor to be able to positively impact people, whether it’s as a patient or because they learn something from an Instagram post.

How does what you do in the world today impact your own happiness and fulfillment?

Helping people feel better and take charge of their health is extremely fulfilling. That I get to be a part of people's health transformation is profoundly meaningful.

How do you cultivate community in your life?

Community is integral to health and wellness. The power of connection and support during a health journey cannot be overstated. When I’m not participating in live events in Austin or spending time with friends, I rely on purposeful gatherings like RUNGA. RUNGA is a great way to come together with people who also value health, but bring different perspectives to the table. I appreciate the ability to share experiences, expertise, and support as we all focus on bettering our health and our ability to help others with their health. The sense of camaraderie and shared purpose in communities like that is invaluable.

What’s something you are enjoying right now? Is there a book you can’t stop reading, or a podcast you regularly turn to?

I really enjoy Huberman Lab and the Peter Attia Drive podcast. I respect and admire what those guys are doing, using science to reach people in meaningful ways.