The Male Room with Dr. Jesse Mills

Does stress literally break your balls? Dr. Jesse Mills is joined by urologist and men’s health specialist Dr. Susan MacDonald to break down the many causes of testicular and scrotal pain, from infections and pelvic floor dysfunction to chronic nerve pain. They explain why imaging doesn’t always reveal the source, how constipation and stress can contribute to symptoms, and why pelvic floor physical therapy may be an important part of treatment. Plus, Dr. McDonald explains spermatic cord denervation, a surgical option that can offer relief for some men living with chronic testicular pain.See omnystudio.com/listener for priv...

We’re two best friends having unfiltered conversations about the modern sh*t we all go through, with a rotating cast of top therapists to help us unpack it all.  We’re not experts, just very curious, slightly unhinged, and can label our feelings (most of the time). Come hang with us as we have the uncomfortable conversations about dating, love, sex, mental health, loneliness, friendships, grief and everything else that only Alex Cooper talks about. Listen to Free Therapy on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's episode is a ball buster — literally. Dr. Mills tackles the subject no man wants to think about: genital trauma. Using the story of a pro baseball player who finished an at-bat with a ruptured testicle as a jumping-off point, he explains what can happen when the penis or testicles suffer a serious injury, how doctors repair the damage, and why timing matters. From testicular rupture and protective cups to penile reconstruction and even transplants, Jesse walks through some of the most extreme cases urologists encounter — and the warning signs that mean it’s time to get to the ER.See om...

Wellness trends are everywhere—but which ones actually live up to the hype? Dr. Jesse Mills puts some of the internet’s buzziest supplements and health hacks under the microscope, breaking down the evidence behind colostrum, fibermaxxing, berberine, magnesium, probiotics and more. He explains where the science looks promising, where the claims get ahead of the data, and why even a seemingly harmless supplement may not be right for everyone. Plus, Dr. Mills and Jordan the Producer explore raw milk, fecal transplants, the gut microbiome and the complicated science behind metabolism and weight.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Mills takes a closer look at creatine—what it does, who may benefit from it, and whether it lives up to the hype. He breaks down the evidence on muscle growth, athletic performance, kidney health, and emerging research into possible cognitive benefits. Dr. Mills also explains when creatine may be most useful, how much of a difference it can realistically make, and why you don’t need to spend extra on elaborate formulations. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Kymora B. Scotland returns for part two of a deep dive into enlarged prostates, this time focusing on what happens when the “big boys” require more than an office-based procedure. From robotic Aquablation and GreenLight vaporization to HoLEP and simple prostatectomy, she breaks down how urologists tackle larger glands—and the tradeoffs involving bleeding, recovery, ejaculation, and incontinence. We also explore what happens when prostate obstruction becomes dangerous enough to threaten kidney function, and whether there’s anything younger men can do to reduce their odds of developing BPH down the road. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When medications aren’t enough to tame an enlarged prostate, what comes next? In Part 1 of this two-part episode, Dr. Mills is joined by fellow UCLA urologist Dr. Kymora Scotland to break down the growing menu of procedures for BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia), from the longtime standard TURP to minimally invasive options like UroLift, iTind, Optilume and Rezūm. They explain how prostate size, recovery time, ejaculation, fertility and potential side effects can determine which treatment makes the most sense. Plus, Dr. Scotland explains why, for most men, choosing a procedure is less about finding the single “best” option and more ab...

When is a strange symptom just part of getting older—and when is it a warning sign you should never ignore? Dr. Mills breaks down the red flags that warrant medical attention, including unexplained bleeding, persistent chest pain, sudden severe headaches, new lumps, shortness of breath, and a cough that won’t go away. He also explains why some frightening symptoms may be less dangerous than they appear, while seemingly minor changes can signal something serious.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Mills breaks down the surprisingly complex process behind a seemingly simple bodily function, from the signals in your brain to the muscles of the bladder and prostate. He explains what urgency, nighttime bathroom trips, a weak stream and incomplete emptying may reveal about your health—and when they warrant a visit to the doctor. He also explores how caffeine, alcohol, medications, diabetes and heart problems can affect urinary habits, along with the risks of routinely holding it in. Plus, why does the urge suddenly strike when you reach your front door?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Could the quality of your erections reveal more about your overall health than you realize? Dr. Mills speaks with emergency physician and FirmTech founder Dr. Elliot Justin about a wearable erection ring designed to measure nocturnal erections, sexual performance and potential early signs of cardiovascular disease. They explore why erectile difficulties are not always solved by taking a pill, how objective data could transform men’s sexual healthcare and whether FirmTech rings (and others) may help men maintain stronger, longer-lasting erections. Plus, Dr. Justin addresses privacy concerns surrounding intimate health data and previews the next generation of sexual-health wearables.See om...

Writer and Peyronie’s disease advocate Don Cummings joins Dr. Mills to share the deeply personal—and often surprisingly funny—story behind his memoir, Bent But Not Broken. Don recounts the fear, guilt and depression he experienced after developing Peyronie’s at age 48, as well as the long treatment journey that ultimately restored his sexual function. He also explains how support from his husband, family, friends and fellow patients helped him cope with the condition’s emotional toll. Together, they offer an honest and hopeful reminder that Peyronie’s disease does not have to mean the end of intimacy, identity or a fulfill...

Dr. Mills is joined by University of Washington urologist Dr. Marah Hehemann to explain how Xiaflex injections can treat the curvature caused by Peyronie’s disease. They discuss who makes a good candidate, what the six-month treatment process involves, and the realistic benefits, risks and side effects patients should expect. The conversation also explores penile traction, surgical options when injections are not enough, and the significant emotional toll Peyronie’s can take. Most importantly, they offer reassurance that effective treatments and support are available.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Got a symptom? There's an influencer for that. A supplement for that. A subreddit, a detox, a cold plunge for that. But what actually works — and what could actually hurt you? Introducing: Health vs. Hype with the American Medical Association — a science-backed health podcast that breaks down viral wellness trends, health misinformation, and the advice flooding your feed. Emmy-nominated science communicator Trace Dominguez sits down with influencers, the curious, and most importantly doctors to fact-check viral health claims – everything from intermittent fasting and protein maxxing to creatine. Cold plunges and more! Not to cancel the trends, not to hype them more, but to ...

Dr. Mills dives deep into the surgical side of Peyronie's disease with Professor Matt Ziegelman from the Mayo Clinic, one of the most renowned Peyronie's surgeons in the country. Building on previous episodes covering the disease's natural history and treatments, this conversation explores the intricate surgical options — including the highly complex plaque excision and graft procedure, which requires essentially disassembling and reassembling the penis to correct the condition. Whether you're a patient weighing your options or just curious about some of the most delicate surgery in all of medicine, this is a must-listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the first installment of our multi-part series on Peyronie's disease, Dr. Mills explains what causes the condition, how it can change the shape, length and function of the penis, and why it may be far more common than most men realize. He also traces its unusual medical history, separates Peyronie's from congenital curvature and dispels the damaging idea that patients somehow caused it themselves. From medications and traction devices to injections and surgery, Dr. Mills previews the range of treatments that will be explored throughout the series. Most importantly, he addresses the condition’s profound psychological impact and offers re...

Clinical psychologist and USC professor Dr. Darby Saxbe joins The Male Room to unpack the science behind fatherhood, from the ways caregiving reshapes the brain to how testosterone, sleep loss, stress and postpartum mood changes can affect new dads. Drawing from her new book Dad Brain, Saxbe explains why great fathers are made through practice, presence and repetition and not just biology. The conversation also explores dad bods, men’s mental health, changing gender roles, sitcom father stereotypes and why modern fatherhood is far more flexible, complicated and rewarding than old clichés suggest.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy inf...

What happens when a man finishes too quickly — or struggles to finish at all? Dr. Jesse Mills explains why issues like premature ejaculation and delayed orgasm are more common than many men realize, and walks through the treatments that may help. He and Jordan also discuss unrealistic expectations shaped by porn, the internet phenomenon known as “death grip syndrome,” and why honest communication with a partner is often the best place to start.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Mills and Jordan tackle one of the most common — and least openly discussed — insecurities among men: penis size. Inspired in part by a story from recent guest Jordan Ritter Conn's new book American Men, the pair explore the surprising history of cultural attitudes toward penis size, how pornography and unrealistic expectations shape men's self-image, and why most men dramatically overestimate what is actually considered average. The conversation separates myth from reality on everything from enlargement pills and traction devices to fillers and surgery, while also examining the emotional toll of penis shame and its connection to confidence, relationships, and erecti...

Dr. Mills speaks with writer Brad Snyder about the lasting emotional impact of childhood medical trauma, body shame, and the complicated relationship many men have with vulnerability. Drawing from a deeply personal HuffPost essay about his experience with an undescended testicle and humiliating pediatric exams, Snyder opens up about fear, secrecy, masculinity, and the long road toward self-acceptance. The conversation explores how shame shapes men’s health decisions, why so many men avoid doctors altogether, and the healing power of finally speaking openly about experiences once kept hiddenSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Mills sits down with journalist and author Jordan Ritter Conn to explore the emotional lives, hidden struggles, and evolving identities of modern American men. Drawing from his deeply reported new book American Men, Conn shares the stories of four vastly different men — from a closeted fighter and a haunted Army veteran to a trans man navigating life in the Rust Belt — and examines how masculinity, loneliness, vulnerability, and the pursuit of power shape their lives. The conversation dives into why men so often struggle to open up, the emotional scripts many inherit from childhood, and what happens when men begin...

In this episode of The Male Room, Dr. Mills sits down with Admiral Dr. Brian Christine — Assistant Secretary for Health at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services — for a sweeping conversation about the state of men’s health in America. From testosterone therapy and erectile dysfunction to depression, chronic disease, diet, and the alarming ways men avoid the healthcare system, the trio unpack why men are dying younger, seeking help less often, and what can finally be done about it. Admiral Christine opens up not only about national health policy and the push for an Office of Men’s...

In this episode, Dr. Mills details the Five Ps of the Pen-ocalypse — a mix of real medical emergencies and under-discussed conditions that can derail even the healthiest sex life. From the urgent dangers of priapism and penile fracture to the lesser-known but equally important issues like phimosis, paraphimosis, and Peyronie’s disease, he breaks down what each one is, how it happens, and when it’s time to seek help. Along the way, Jordan plays the queasy but curious stand-in for every listener, asking the questions most people are too afraid to voice. It’s candid, surprisingly funny, and ultimately a judgme...

Dr. Mills sits down with internationally acclaimed DJ, licensed therapist, and host of the iHeart podcast Music Is Therapy, DJ Hesta Prynn, to explore the surprising science behind music, mindset, and emotional health. From learning vinyl from Questlove to developing her “music connection therapy,” she breaks down how the right song can literally rewire your brain—and change how you show up in the world. The conversation moves from rage-fueled pump-up anthems to deeply personal playlists, touching on everything from chronic pain to creative fulfillment. It’s a wide-ranging, high-energy look at how music can be more than entertainment—it can be medi...

Dr. Mills sits down with cognitive neuroscientist, musician, and bestselling author Daniel Levitin for a wide-ranging conversation on the brain, music, and what it really means to age well. From the science of dopamine and why music can literally rewire the brain to the difference between lifespan and “healthspan,” Dr. Levitin breaks down complex ideas with the same clarity that made 'This Is Your Brain on Music' a modern classic. He also shares insights from his latest book, 'I Heard There Was a Secret Chord,' including powerful stories about music’s role in healing and recovery. It’s a deep, fu...

Every guy wants to keep his hair—but not at the expense of everything else. Dr. Mills unpacks finasteride, its benefits, and the rare but real side effects that have fueled online panic around post-finasteride syndrome. Along the way: hormone deep-dives, myth-busting, and why “one-size-fits-all” medicine doesn’t work. It’s the truth about hair loss drugs—without the fear-mongeringSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Mills sits down with longtime collaborator Dr. Stanley Frencher Jr. for a wide-ranging conversation on healthcare disparities, entrepreneurship, and building systems that actually reach underserved communities. From his upbringing in a family of physicians to leading innovative care models in South Los Angeles, Frencher shares how his work with HubMD is bridging gaps through technology, partnerships, and patient-centered design. The discussion explores how fragmented systems fail vulnerable populations—and what it takes to rebuild them with access, equity, and sustainability in mind. At its core, it’s a powerful look at how one doctor is scaling compassion from individual pati...

In Part 2 of our vasectomy series, Dr. Jesse Mills and Dr. Jay Sandlow dive into what happens when “permanent” birth control isn’t so permanent—breaking down the science, success factors, and surprising complexities of vasectomy reversals. From the difference between surgical techniques to the real-world variables that impact fertility—including partner age, prior history, and timing—they walk through what couples need to know when considering their options. Along the way, the conversation veers into jaw-dropping patient stories, common myths, and the emotional, ethical, and human realities behind these deeply personal decisions. It’s an honest, fascinating look at modern fertili...

March is vasectomy season (really) and to honor the occasion, Dr. Mills is joined by leading urologist Dr. Jay Sandlow—one of the architects behind modern vasectomy guidelines—for a candid, myth-busting conversation about one of the most common (and misunderstood) procedures in men’s health. Together, they break down who should consider a vasectomy, what actually happens during the procedure, and why it remains far safer and more effective than many alternatives—while still being surprisingly underutilized. Along the way, they tackle the biggest fears and misconceptions, from sex drive and testosterone to rare complications and recovery, giving listeners a clear...

Dr. Mills walks listeners through what life after prostate cancer surgery can really look like, with a candid focus on sexual recovery, continence, and quality of life. He explains how “prehab” — including medication, pelvic floor exercises, nutrition, and follow-up care — can help men improve their odds of regaining function after treatment. Along the way, Dr. Mills and Jordan discuss the emotional vulnerability that comes with prostate cancer recovery, breaking down the fears, myths, and real-world concerns men and their partners often face. It’s an honest, practical, and compassionate conversation about surviving cancer without giving up on intimacy, confidence, or hope.See o...

Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Tim Commerford joins The Male Room to speak candidly about his prostate cancer journey — from the shock of diagnosis and the emotional aftermath of surgery to the hard-won strength he’s built on the other side. The Rage Against the Machine bassist opens up about masculinity, recovery, fitness, sexuality, and why men need to take their health seriously and advocate for themselves. Alongside Dr. Jesse Mills and Producer Jordan, Commerford reflects on turning fear into purpose, and how sharing his story can help save lives.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the third and final installment of our prostate-cancer trilogy with UCLA urologic oncologist Dr. Wayne Brisbane, Dr. Mills walks a 55-year-old patient through the modern treatment menu—active surveillance, focal therapy, surgery, and radiation—and why “having prostate cancer” doesn’t always mean “operate immediately.” Dr. Brisbane breaks down how doctors risk-stratify tumors (including what Gleason scores really mean), why PSA “ups and downs” can trigger anxiety, and how newer tools (from genomic tests to MRI-guided radiation) help personalize decisions. They also get real about side effects and recovery, from muscle-sparing prostatectomy techniques that can speed urinary control to the “sunburn in th...

On Part 2 of our prostate cancer series, Dr. Mills welcomes back UCLA urologic oncologist Dr. Wayne Brisbane to walk listeners through what happens after a PSA bump — touching on how doctors use prostate MRI, biomarkers, and shared decision-making to determine who really needs a biopsy. Dr. Brisbane demystifies the MRI experience (yes, the loud, tight tube), explains what those 1–5 “PIRADS” scores actually mean, and breaks down modern biopsy options—including why the transperineal approach can lower infection risk. Then it’s on decoding Gleason scores, grade groups, and “risk stratification”— and explaining why, for many men, this is a highly treatable, often c...

In the first episode of our three-part Prostate Cancer series, Dr. Jesse Mills and Jordan Runtagh sit down with UCLA urologic oncologist and surgeon-scientist Dr. Wayne Brisbane to tackle the most confusing—and most important—starting point: screening. What does an “elevated PSA” actually mean, why is it controversial, and how do you avoid unnecessary panic (or unnecessary procedures) while still catching cancer early? Using a real-world “55-year-old patient journey,” they break down PSA as a prostate “thermometer,” when to repeat a test, what role MRI plays today, and how newer tools like urine biomarkers and micro-ultrasound are reshaping early detection—before...

Dr. Mills is joined by reproductive urologist Dr. Jim Smith, a longtime colleague and leading expert in male fertility and men’s health. Together, they break down what a semen analysis actually measures, why quality and timing matter, and why men shouldn’t wait a year into the fertility journey to get checked. Dr. Smith also explains sperm cryopreservation — who should consider banking, how long it lasts, and why access remains a major barrier. Plus, they'll bust the biggest myths about what “kills” sperm, explain why semen can be a window into overall health, and offer a surprisingly practical prescription for better...

Dr. Mills sits down with hormone therapy physician and entrepreneur Dr. Peter Fotinos to unpack the difference between “hormone replacement” and true hormone optimization. They dig into how studies like the Women’s Health Initiative shaped decades of fear, and why symptoms and lived experience sometimes matter more than a single lab cutoff. The conversation also tackles common pitfalls of “testosterone mill” medicine (including routine aromatase inhibitors), plus what’s changing in women’s hormone care and why testosterone matters for women beyond libido. Finally, Dr. Fotinos shares how he’s scaling more responsible, check-in-driven telehealth—and what proactive medicine can look like for...

Dr. Jesse Mills sits down with gastroenterologist-turned-biotech leader Dr. Josh Ofman, president of GRAIL, the company behind a groundbreaking blood test designed to detect dozens of cancers early by analyzing DNA shed by tumors. They break down how multi-cancer early detection works, who should consider testing (even before age 50), and how the technology fits into the larger—and often confusing—longevity conversation. The episode also tackles concerns about over-screening, false positives, and why waiting decades for perfect data may cost lives today. Have a question for Dr. Mills? Send us an email at: themaleroompod@gmail.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for priv...

Dr. Mills is joined by celebrity nutritionist and gut-health expert Dr. Daryl Gioffre to break down what’s really driving America’s acid reflux epidemic—and why the root cause is often too little stomach acid, not too much. After revealing the deeply personal story that pushed him into this work following his father’s battle with esophageal cancer, Dr. Gioffre shares practical strategies to support digestion and protect the esophagus — from the “three-hour rule” before bed to simple soothing tools like teas, honey, and magnesium. The conversation also gets into why sugar is so hard to quit, how ultra-processed foods (and “gl...

Dr. Steve Poulter is back for Part 2 of our conversation, and this time we go straight to what he calls the hidden engine behind so much male anxiety, isolation, and anger: shame. Dr. Mills and Dr. Poulter break down how shame takes root early, why men often externalize it in ways that damage relationships, and why “anger management” is often really “shame management.” Plus, Dr. Poulter shares practical ways to get out of the “invisible/disrespected” spiral and explains why naming shame—especially around trauma—can be the turning point that finally lets healing (and even marriages) move forward.See omnystudio.com/l...

As the New Year begins, it’s the perfect time to take stock — not just of your physical health, but your mental one, too. Dr. Mills kicks off the year by welcoming renowned therapist Dr. Steve Poulter. Together, they explore modern masculinity, shame, isolation, and what it really means for men to be emotionally resilient. Drawing on decades of clinical experience — and a remarkable life path that included stints in law enforcement and the seminary — Dr. Poulter offers practical tools for growth, accountability, and connection. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.