What's Your Backstory?: Native Path's Dr. Chad Walding

In this episode of 'The Dr. Laura Podcast,' host Dr. Laura Schlesinger launches her new series 'What's Your Backstory?' with Dr. Chad Walding, co-founder of Native Path and a health expert whose journey spans from physical therapy to immersive experiences with indigenous tribes in the Amazon. Walding shares how his fascination with ancestral health—sparked by the work of dentist Weston A. Price—led him to reevaluate modern diets and lifestyles. His transformative 2018 experience living with a remote tribe in Acre, Brazil, deepened his understanding of community, gratitude, and the importance of natural rhythms in life. He reflects on the trade-offs between traditional living and modern conveniences, emphasizing that health isn't about deprivation but alignment with human biology. Walding also discusses Native Path’s flagship collagen product, explaining its sourcing from grass-fed cows and its role in supporting joint, skin, and bone health—especially as collagen production declines with age. The episode closes with a heartfelt song taught to him by the tribe, underscoring the power of tradition and connection. Key takeaways include: (1) Modern health issues are often rooted in lifestyle misalignment with our ancestral biology; (2) Collagen supplementation can significantly support recovery and longevity when sourced from high-quality, natural origins; (3) True wellness includes not just diet and movement but also community, gratitude, and meaningful ritual. Dr. Walding’s story illustrates how personal transformation can fuel purpose-driven innovation, blending ancient wisdom with modern science.