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In this episode, Dr. Kara Odom Walker, Chief Medical Officer for Aetna Medicaid, discusses a new collaboration with National Association of Community Health Centers to improve hypertension control in underserved communities. She shares how data, community partnerships, and addressing social drivers of health can help reduce disparities, prevent chronic disease complications, and improve outcomes for Medicaid members.
In this episode, Daniel J. Elliott, MD, MSCE, FACP, FAAP, Chief Medical Officer of Provider Experience at Centene Corporation, discusses how payers and providers can work together to address cost pressures, workforce challenges, and care coordination. He also shares perspectives on using AI, improving data sharing, and reducing friction in processes like prior authorization to strengthen the healthcare ecosystem.
Harpreet Pall, MD, MBA, CPE, Chief Medical Officer at Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center and K. Hovnanian Children's Hospital, discusses efforts to reduce clinical variation and strengthen multidisciplinary care coordination. He also shares leadership strategies for improving patient flow, quality, and team engagement across complex health systems.
Why do you crave dessert after dinner? Why are you hungry again an hour after eating? And why does weight sometimes seem to accelerate even when you're watching calories? In Episode 3 of this series on ultra-processed and hyper-palatable foods, Dr. Brendan McCarthy breaks down the biology behind cravings, hunger, and weight gain. This episode connects the dots between food engineering, blood sugar spikes, insulin, and the brain's reward system—showing why this isn't a willpower problem, but a biological response to the foods we're eating. Dr. McCarthy, Chief Medical Officer at Protea Medical Center in Tempe, Arizona, explains how modern ultra-processed foods are designed to override normal satiety signals, destabilize blood sugar, and drive continued consumption. Over time, this can create hormonal changes that make weight gain easier and weight loss harder. In this episode you'll learn: • Why ultra-processed foods trigger cravings and repeat eating • How glycemic spikes lead to hunger shortly after meals • The role of insulin as a “routing hormone” for calories • How food processing affects fat storage in the body • Why weight gain can accelerate over time • Why this is not a failure of willpower This series focuses on precision nutrition and endocrinology, helping you understand the real biological mechanisms behind metabolism, hunger, and weight regulation. If you've ever wondered why controlling food intake feels so difficult despite your best efforts, this episode will help you understand what your body is actually responding to. Citations: Episode 3 — Mechanism-Anchored Evidence Summary This episode explores how ultra-processed foods, liver metabolism, adipose tissue, hormones, and brain signaling interact to drive cravings, fat storage, and weight gain. Key mechanisms and supporting references include: Hepatic First-Pass Metabolism: Carbohydrates enter the liver via portal circulation, controlling post-meal fuel distribution (Samuel & Shulman, 2016). Fructose and Lipogenesis: Fructose bypasses key glycolytic regulation, fueling hepatic fat synthesis (Softic et al., 2020). De Novo Lipogenesis: Excess carbs activate SREBP-1c and ChREBP, producing triglycerides in the liver (Donnelly et al., 2005). VLDL Export: Hepatic triglycerides are packaged into VLDL and sent to adipose tissue (Adiels et al., 2008). Adipose Storage: Lipoprotein lipase delivers circulating triglycerides to fat cells (Kersten, 2014). Insulin Resistance: Hepatic lipid accumulation impairs insulin signaling (Samuel et al., 2004). Hyperinsulinemia & Fat Storage: Insulin promotes triglyceride storage and suppresses lipolysis (Czech, 2017). Aromatase & Estrone: Expanded adipose increases aromatase activity, raising estrone levels (Simpson et al., 1999; Key et al., 2002). Inflammation: Enlarged fat cells release cytokines, worsening insulin resistance (Hotamisligil, 2006). Ultra-Processed Foods & Overeating: Highly palatable foods drive excess calorie intake (Hall et al., 2019). Reward Signaling: Dopamine pathways reinforce eating behaviors (Volkow et al., 2013). Satiety Disruption: Low fiber and processed structure bypass satiety hormones like GLP-1 and PYY (Slavin & Green, 2007). Synthesis: Ultra-processed foods → rapid hepatic load → lipogenesis → triglyceride export → adipose expansion → estrone increase → inflammation & insulin resistance → cravings and repeated consumption. This creates a self-reinforcing metabolic cycle linking diet, liver, adipose tissue, hormones, and behavior. Dr. Brendan McCarthy is the founder and Chief Medical Officer of Protea Medical Center in Arizona. With over two decades of experience, he's helped thousands of patients navigate hormonal imbalances using bioidentical HRT, nutrition, and root-cause medicine. He's also taught and mentored other physicians on integrative approaches to hormone therapy, weight loss, fertility, and more. If you're ready to take your health seriously, this podcast is a great place to start.
(March 11, 2026) Survey reveals almost 50% of California teachers may quit teaching soon. The top health benefits of pets. Dr. Jim Keany, Chief Medical Officer at Dignity Health St. Mary Medical Center in Long Beach, joins The Bill Handel Show for 'Medical News'! Dr. Keany talks with Bill about See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Join host Eve Cunningham, MD, Chief Medical Officer at Cadence, in conversation with Sunita Koshy-Nesbitt, MD, MBA, Chief Medical and Quality Officer for Texas Health Physicians Group and Chief Quality Officer for the hospital channel at Texas Health Resources. Texas Health Resources is one of the largest and fastest-growing health systems in the country, serving a diverse and rapidly expanding population across North Texas. In this episode, Eve and Sunita explore what it really takes to lead clinical quality at scale in an environment overflowing with data, constrained by workforce realities, and under increasing pressure to deliver better outcomes without adding burden to clinicians. Their conversation focuses on: How clinical training in electrophysiology shapes a leadership mindset built around signal, noise, and actionable data Why health systems must prioritize clinical credibility, workflow simplicity, and scalability when evaluating remote care and digital health solutions What frontline physicians actually need from new technology How quality, safety, patient experience, equity, and cost are deeply interconnected Where AI is already delivering real value by reducing administrative burden and improving clinician experience Why operational design is often the root cause of burnout and system failure What it looks like to lead systemwide transformation while staying grounded in evidence, outcomes, and day-to-day clinical realities Dr. Koshy-Nesbitt is a partner of Cadence and not compensated for this podcast. For more information on Cadence, visit https://www.cadence.care/
In this episode, Dr. Andy Cutler talks with Dr. Robert Cotes about optimizing outcomes in early psychosis and why the first episode is a critical window for intervention. They discuss the impact of duration of untreated psychosis, recovery trajectories after a first episode, and what to measure beyond symptom reduction—including functional outcomes, cognition, and relapse risk. The conversation also highlights strategies for engaging young adults and families in coordinated specialty care, early identification of clinical high risk for psychosis, and innovations aimed at improving long-term recovery. Robert O. Cotes, MD, is Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Emory University School of Medicine and Chief of Psychiatry at Grady Health System in Atlanta. He directs the Clinical and Research Program for Psychosis at Grady, which includes Project ARROW, a coordinated specialty care program for young people with early psychosis, and a specialized clozapine clinic for treatment-resistant schizophrenia. Andrew J. Cutler, MD, is a distinguished psychiatrist and researcher with extensive experience in clinical trials and psychopharmacology. He currently serves as the Chief Medical Officer of Neuroscience Education Institute and EMA Wellness. He is a Clinical Associate Professor of Psychiatry at SUNY Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, New York. Save $100 on registration for 2026 NEI Spring Congress with code NEIPOD26 Register today at nei.global/spring Never miss an episode!
Dr. Jim Keany, Chief Medical Officer at Dignity Health St. Mary Medical Center in Long Beach, joins The Bill Handel Show for 'Medical News'! Dr. Keany talks with Bill aboutSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dr. Tom Vega, Founder and Chief Medical Officer of Concierge Companions Vet Med chats with Chris and Nikki of The Morning Mix about pet ownership, working with families as pets transition across the rainbow bridge, the upcoming MCP Rebel Ball, and more!Dr. Vega also serves on the Board of Directors for MCP Chicago Rescue & Outreach. For more information on Concierge Companions Vet Med, click HERE.To purchase tickets and join Chris & Nikki at the 2026 MCP Rebel Ball - click HERE.Listen to The Morning Mix weekdays from 5:30am - 10:00am on 101.9fm The Mix in Chicago or with the free Mix App available in the Apple App Store and Google Play.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Dr. Jeffrey Kopin, Chief Medical Officer for Northwestern Medicine Catherine Gratz Griffin Lake Forest Hospital, joins John Williams to talk about being on the back-end of flu season, how most of the respiratory illness they saw in the hospital was influenza, how far we have come with COVID since 2020, if popular weight loss drugs could become a […]
Dr. Jeffrey Kopin, Chief Medical Officer for Northwestern Medicine Catherine Gratz Griffin Lake Forest Hospital, joins John Williams to talk about being on the back-end of flu season, how most of the respiratory illness they saw in the hospital was influenza, how far we have come with COVID since 2020, if popular weight loss drugs could become a […]
Dr. Jeffrey Kopin, Chief Medical Officer for Northwestern Medicine Catherine Gratz Griffin Lake Forest Hospital, joins John Williams to talk about being on the back-end of flu season, how most of the respiratory illness they saw in the hospital was influenza, how far we have come with COVID since 2020, if popular weight loss drugs could become a […]
In this episode, Dr. Narayana Murali, Chief Medical Officer of Medicine Services and Professor at Geisinger College of Health Sciences, shares how Geisinger redesigned its approach to advanced care planning, increasing engagement from 5% to nearly 50% among high risk seniors. He also discusses driving physician and APP alignment, scaling high reliability and zero harm principles, and expanding home based care to deliver compassionate, patient centered outcomes.
Are weight-loss medications the breakthrough we've been waiting for, or is there a missing piece no one is talking about? Tune in for thoughtful, informative discussion with Mistie Mace, NP, and Dr. Michelle Gourdine, Chief Medical Officer for CVS Caremark, on why lasting weight loss requires more than medication—it requires ongoing support.Moments with Marianne airs in the Southern California area on KMET1490AM & 98.1 FM, an ABC Talk News Radio Affiliate! https://www.kmet1490am.comAfter many unsuccessful attempts, Mistie Mace, NP, is finally finding success on her weight‑loss journey. She joins us to share her personal experience, alongside Dr. Michelle Gourdine, Chief Medical Officer for CVS Caremark, who will discuss the benefits of a comprehensive, whole‑person approach. https://www.cvshealth.comFor Mistie Mace, a Licensed Practical Nurse, thyroid cancer survivor, and full‑time caregiver to her 19‑year‑old son with cerebral palsy and blindness—an approach that fits the demands of her day‑to‑day life has always been essential. After living with obesity since childhood and reaching 416 lbs at her heaviest, she knew she needed support that felt realistic and sustainable. Through CVS Health's Weight Management Program, Mistie has lost 45 lbs in just a few months. What's made the difference is a whole‑person model that pairs medical therapy with structured behavioral support, including coaching, nutrition guidance, and consistent accountability. She is experiencing improved mobility, better energy, normalized blood sugar levels, and meaningful progress toward long‑term health. To learn more about the show and interview opportunities contact us at: https://www.mariannepestana.com
In this episode, Dr. Narayana Murali, Chief Medical Officer of Medicine Services and Professor at Geisinger College of Health Sciences, shares how Geisinger redesigned its approach to advanced care planning, increasing engagement from 5% to nearly 50% among high risk seniors. He also discusses driving physician and APP alignment, scaling high reliability and zero harm principles, and expanding home based care to deliver compassionate, patient centered outcomes.
Dr. Khan explains why preventive care is critical for seniors. He breaks down the big three you should be getting checked that seniors should be doing to live a healthier and happier life.
In this episode, Dr. Amy Compton-Phillips, Executive Vice President and Chief Medical Officer at CVS Health, discusses how her experience at Kaiser Permanente and Providence shaped her mission to simplify care delivery. She shares how CVS is leveraging its national footprint to improve access, navigation, and cost transparency while reducing payer provider friction and rebuilding trust across the healthcare ecosystem.
In this episode, we're diving deep into ultra-processed foods — and why cravings in your 30s, 40s, and 50s are not a character flaw. If you've ever: Felt compulsive around certain foods Wondered why you “used to have more willpower” Eaten for stress relief and felt ashamed afterward Asked yourself why your partner can stop but you can't This episode is for you. There are three major biologic reasons why cravings intensify during this season of life: 1️⃣ Engineered hyper-palatable foods Modern ultra-processed foods are scientifically designed to manipulate salt, sugar, fat, texture, and glycemic response — overriding normal satiety signals and strengthening dopamine tagging in the brain. 2️⃣ Chronic stress physiology Stress amplifies cravings for energy-dense foods. These foods temporarily shift serotonin and dopamine signaling, creating relief — but worsening the long-term cycle. 3️⃣ Perimenopause & progesterone decline As ovarian reserve shifts in your late 30s and beyond, progesterone drops. Less allopregnanolone support at the GABA receptor means higher anxiety tone — and weaker “brakes” on impulse control. This isn't about willpower. It was never a fair fight. Citation: Episode 2 – Mechanism-Anchored Evidence Map: Ultra-Processed Foods, Reward Signaling, Stress, and Hormonal Vulnerability Ultra-Processed Food Engineering – Salt, sugar, fat, and texture are manipulated to maximize reward signaling and overconsumption. (Fazzino et al., 2019; Gearhardt et al., 2011; Hall et al., 2019) Dopamine and Reward Tagging – Dopamine marks important stimuli, reinforcing repeated behavior and “wanting” rather than pleasure. (Schultz, 2016; Berridge & Robinson, 1998) High-Glycemic Carbohydrates – Increase tryptophan availability and serotonin synthesis, influencing mood and short-term relief. (Fernstrom & Wurtman, 1972; Wurtman & Wurtman, 1989) Chronic Stress – Alters reward circuitry, increasing vulnerability to compulsive behaviors. (Piazza & Le Moal, 1998; Sinha, 2008) Progesterone, Allopregnanolone, and GABA – Hormonal neurosteroids modulate GABAergic inhibition, stress buffering, and reward sensitivity. (Paul & Purdy, 1992; Reddy, 2010; Purdy et al., 1990) Sleep and Appetite Regulation – Hormonal and neurosteroid pathways influence sleep; sleep disruption increases hunger and cravings. (Tasali et al., 2004; Purdy et al., 1990) Summary: These mechanisms explain why hyper-stimulating foods are particularly compelling during chronic stress and hormonal transitions, showing cravings are biologically reinforced rather than a matter of willpower. Dr. Brendan McCarthy is the founder and Chief Medical Officer of Protea Medical Center in Arizona. With over two decades of experience, he's helped thousands of patients navigate hormonal imbalances using bioidentical HRT, nutrition, and root-cause medicine. He's also taught and mentored other physicians on integrative approaches to hormone therapy, weight loss, fertility, and more. If you're ready to take your health seriously, this podcast is a great place to start.
Synopsis: This episode is proudly sponsored by Quartzy. Physician-scientist, biotech founder, and leadership advocate Sheila Gujrathi, MD joins Rahul Chaturvedi on the Biotech 2050 Podcast for a powerful conversation at the intersection of biotech innovation, leadership, and personal transformation. Sheila shares the unconventional journey that led her from academic medicine to the forefront of biotechnology—spanning roles at Genentech and Bristol Myers Squibb, founding companies, serving on boards, and recently helping guide Ventus Therapeutics through its acquisition by Lilly. Along the way, she reflects on the lessons she learned building drugs, scaling companies, and navigating the evolving biotech deal environment. The discussion then turns deeply personal as Sheila explores the ideas behind her book “The Mirror Effect,” revealing how self-awareness, supportive networks, and authentic leadership can transform careers—especially for women and underrepresented leaders in science. From overcoming imposter syndrome to building the “CEO Sisterhood” network of women biotech leaders, Sheila shares hard-earned insights on navigating power, culture, and identity in high-stakes industries. For founders, investors, and leaders alike, this episode blends biotech strategy with deeply human lessons on resilience, purpose, and the power of believing in yourself. Biography: SHEILA GUJRATHI, MD, is a biotech entrepreneur, executive, and champion for under- represented leaders. Over the past 25 years, she's had the privilege of developing life-changing medicines for patients with serious diseases while building and running private and public biotech companies—including some exciting exits. Today she's a founder, chairwoman, board director, strategic advisor, and consultant to start-up companies and investment funds. Dr. Gujrathi was the co-founder and former CEO of Gossamer Bio and former Chief Medical Officer of Receptos. Her journey started at Northwestern University, where she earned both her M.D. and biomedical engineering degree, and took her from the halls of Harvard, UCSF, and Stanford to the corporate offices of Fortune 500 companies like McKinsey, Genentech, and Bristol-Myers Squibb. Dr. Gujrathi has earned multiple leadership awards, including AIMBE Fellow, BLOC100 Luminary, Healthcare Technology Report Top 25 Women Leaders in Biotechnology, Corporate Directors Forum Director of the Year, and Fiercest Women in Life Sciences. But what really lights her up is creating the inclusive environments she wished she'd had throughout her career. That's why she co-founded the Biotech CEO Sisterhood, a group of trailblazing female CEOs—because we're all better when we support each other.
What does it cost to stand on principle when everything around you says stay quiet?Sign up for weekly webinars: https://imahealth.org/weekly-webinars/In this week's show, Dr. Ryan Cole led a bold and personal conversation about courage in modern healthcare and what it truly means to stand firm when pressure mounts.He was joined by Dr. Joseph Varon, Professor of Medicine and President and Chief Medical Officer of the Independent Medical Alliance, and Chris Ekrem, MBA, FACHE, former hospital CEO and healthcare executive.Chris introduced Cowboy Ethics, including live each day with courage, finish what you start, ride for the brand, and always do what is right. He also explained what it means to be a “Daniel” in healthcare today and why the system needs more leaders willing to take that stand.Together they explored:• Standing firm when institutions push back• Drawing the line before it is too late• When walking away becomes integrity, not failure• Why some things in medicine must never be for sale• How accountability restores trustThe episode also highlighted IMA's Ethics & Values Declaration and its commitment to Patients Over Profits, because principle must be lived, not merely declared.Aired Wednesday, March 04, 2026.Also:• Donate: https://imahealth.org/donate/• Follow: https://imahealth.org/contact/• Webinar: https://imahealth.org/category/weekly-webinars/• Treatment: https://imahealth.org/treatment-protocols/• Medical Disclaimer: https://imahealth.org/about/terms-and-conditions/About IMA (Formerly FLCCC Alliance)The Independent Medical Alliance™ is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) organization and coalition of physicians, nurses, and healthcare professionals united by a mission to restore trust and transparency in healthcare. The organization's mission is one driven by Honest Medicine™ that prioritizes patients above profits and emphasizes long-term wellness and disease prevention through empowerment of both physicians and their patients. With a focus on evidence-based medicine, informed consent, and systemic reform, IMA is driving a movement to create a more compassionate and effective healthcare system.For more information about the Independent Medical Alliance, visit www.IMAhealth.org
Geospatial AI sounds like science fiction until you see it applied to real problems. Then it gets very practical, very fast.In this conversation, Dr. Este Geraghty, Chief Medical Officer at Esri, talks through how satellite imagery and location intelligence are being used to answer questions that once took weeks or months to resolve.She covers how AI-powered image analysis can identify accessibility curb ramps across an entire city, assess wildfire damage to individual homes in minutes, and help health systems and public agencies respond faster during emergencies. Dr. Geraghty also breaks down the difference between geoAI, AI assistants, and agentic AI, and why lowering the barrier to insight matters just as much as the analytics themselves.
In this episode Dr. Simon Ruffell joins to discuss the research on ayahuasca for PTSD. Dr. Ruffell is a psychiatrist, researcher, and student of curanderismo (Amazonian shamanism) working at the intersection of Western psychiatry, traditional plant medicine, and Indigenous knowledge systems. He is Executive Director of Onaya, Lecturer in Psychology and Psychedelics at the University of Exeter, and Chief Medical Officer of MINDS, with a focus on integrative and relational approaches to healing and consciousness. In this conversation, Dr. Ruffell explores the emerging research on ayahuasca as a treatment for PTSD, drawing on both Western scientific models and Indigenous Shipibo knowledge systems. He outlines how ayahuasca may work through mechanisms such as increased neuroplasticity, disruption of rigid predictive models, and potential epigenetic shifts related to stress and trauma, while emphasizing that these biological explanations exist alongside Indigenous understandings of "cleaning ancestral lines." Sharing preliminary findings from his ongoing research with military veterans in collaboration with Heroic Hearts Project, Dr. Ruffell discusses significant reductions in PTSD symptoms at six-month follow-up, the powerful role of community and ceremony, and the ethical complexities of studying sacred practices through Western scientific tools. He closes with a moving story of a veteran whose healing journey illustrates both the promise and the limits of psychedelic medicine when embedded in relational and cultural context. In this episode, you'll hear: Western scientific theories for how ayahuasca may alleviate PTSD How trauma-related epigenetic changes may be transmitted across generations Preliminary results from Dr. Ruffell's study of ayahuasca for veterans diagnosed with PTSD The role of community bonding and peer support among veterans in maintaining therapeutic gains Why ayahuasca research in the Amazon includes a broader plant-based healing system—not just the brew itself How Indigenous healers interpret epigenetic findings as confirmation of longstanding ancestral frameworks The ethical considerations of bringing Western measurement tools (like EEG) into sacred ceremonial contexts Quotes: "This is what I find most interesting about our research—that it is cutting edge science but at the same time, when we conduct it with indigenous healers, we get a whole new perspective on what could be happening when it comes to interpreting the results and also making decisions of what to research as well." [14:09] "According to measures of PTSD on the scales that we're looking at, over 80% of the participants that were scoring for PTSD before their ayahuasca retreats and no longer scoring for PTSD at that six month follow up. So it's not just immediately after the ayahuasca retreats. It's six months later. And that's super, super encouraging." [15:52] "When we take things to the lab, one of the reasons that we might see the effect size diminishing is because we no longer have shamanism, basically, which is exerting a huge effect." [16:55] "Traditionally what would happen is that the curandero would drink ayahuasca and the participants would just be there and the curandero would use the visions that they had with ayahuasca to look into the participants and to diagnose them. And then the healing would come through them singing their medicinal chants, which are the icaros. And then afterwards they would give them a prescription of plants or whatever it is that they needed. And sometimes the prescription would be to drink ayahuasca, but most of the time it wouldn't be. [27:18] "You can't separate like DMT, in my eyes, from the rest of the compounds in ayahuasca, from the ceremony, from the jungle. That, in my opinion, is what makes up Shipibo. Otherwise you just have a bunch of chemicals." [28:20] Links: Dr. Ruffell's website Dr. Ruffell on LinkedIn Dr. Ruffell on Instagram Onaya website Onaya Science website Onaya on LinkedIn Onaya on Instagram Previous episode: Can Ayahuasca Heal PTSD? with Former Army Ranger Jesse Gould Psychedelic Medicine Association Porangui
Decreasing cost. It's the Holy Grail. The thing we all know must happen in order for healthcare to become sustainable and usable for the majority of Americans. We know data analytics help. They help to identify those who are at the highest risk and who are the highest cost. But, what if we were able to look at those who are currently low cost and predict who might become high cost? Taking it one step further, could we then reach out to those folks and offer a clinical intervention built on relationship that might help prevent that high cost event from ever happening? That's exactly the kind of model our guest today has built at Converging Health. Dr. Conard operates at the intersection of clinical medicine, advanced analytics, medical group leadership, and business strategy for early and emerging companies. He began his journey as a solo practitioner, eventually growing his medical practice to over 510 clinicians over 20 years. After the practice was acquired by a hospital system, Dr. Conard became the Chief Medical Officer for a brokerage/consulting firm and led an innovation lab focused on effective health risk reduction interventions. Currently, he is the Co-Founder of Converging Health, LLC, a technology-empowered consulting and services company. Converging Health collaborates with at-risk entities such as self-insured corporations, medical groups, accountable care organizations (ACOs) taking financial risk, and insurance captives to enhance well-being, reduce costs, and improve member experiences.
(March 04, 2026) What Tuesday’s big midterm contests will reveal about President Trump and Democrats. Republican initiative for voter ID in California gathers enough support for ballot measure. Dr. Jim Keany, Chief Medical Officer at Dignity Health St. Mary Medical Center in Long Beach, joins The Bill Handel Show for 'Medical News'! Dr. Keany talks with Bill about a universal vaccine, prepping for daylight savings, and Raw milk warning. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this Bright Spots in Healthcare episode, host Eric Glazer convenes health plan leaders who are focused on what happens beyond the clinic visit, the moments between care where behavior, adherence, and risk quietly take shape. The conversation centers on how plans are operationalizing care without proximity by extending support into daily life, redesigning benefit strategies, and moving from episodic measurement to longitudinal influence. This is a candid discussion for executives who are still building, still questioning assumptions, and still shaping what sustainable, whole-person care can become. Together, the panel explores how digitally enabled self-management, continuous insight, and targeted human support are changing how plans influence outcomes over time. Our guests include: Timothy Law, DO, MBA, Chief Medical Officer, Highmark Inc. Deborah Hammond, MD, Vice President, Medical Director, Healthfirst Jamie Zajac, Senior Director of Care Coordination, Colorado Access Omar Manejwala, MD, Chief Medical Officer, DarioHealth Together, they explore: How health plans are designing care models around daily life rather than visit cadence, closing visibility gaps that claims and labs fail to capture What actually works when continuous engagement, behavioral support, and real-time data are combined to influence adherence and sustained behavior change How home-based data capture, AI-driven personalization, and integrated human coaching are improving outcomes across cardiometabolic, behavioral health, and musculoskeletal populations How these capabilities are being embedded into care management, quality improvement, and benefit design, particularly in environments facing access barriers, workforce constraints, and geographic limitations This episode offers an honest look at the structural, operational, and cultural shifts required to manage what happens between visits, and why that interval is where outcomes are ultimately won. Panelist Bios: https://www.brightspotsinhealthcare.com/events/care-without-proximity-winning-the-moments-between-care/ Download the Episode Guide: Get key takeaways and expert highlights to help you apply lessons from the episode. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1h6TzhQ4-ZlUMY09pBI4NvpqwY1FKkL9lMPOEEpftVHA/edit?tab=t.0 Key Insights Summary: Find key insights from the discussion, guest takeaways, and detailed moderator notes captured by Eric during the conversation. https://www.brightspotsinhealthcare.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Key-Takeaways_-Care-Without-Proximity-02-26-26.docx.pdf Resources: Report: Designing Benefits for Care Without Proximity and Sustained Outcomes This companion report examines how health plans can redesign benefits to address the most overlooked driver of outcomes: what happens in the time between clinical visits. Drawing on emerging evidence and real-world implementation, the report shows how continuous guidance, low-friction engagement, and integrated human support can influence daily behavior, preserve outcomes beyond treatment, and close the gap between what is authorized and what actually happens. Inside, you'll find insights on: Reframing benefit design from static access and eligibility rules to longitudinal accountability for sustained behavior Using data from daily life, behavioral, biometric, and contextual to move beyond lagging claims and EHR signals Applying operational personalization to intervene earlier and adapt support as member needs change Integrating targeted human support with technology to manage the transition after treatment and prevent backsliding Why investing in care without proximity is becoming urgent as workforce constraints and chronic disease prevalence continue to rise To request your copy from show producer, Vekonda Luangaphay at email vluangaphay@brightspotsventures.com. Thank You to Our Episode Partner, Dario: Dario is transforming how people manage their health through consumer-friendly digital solutions designed to drive lasting behavior change. By integrating comprehensive support across well-being and chronic condition management, Dario delivers highly personalized, adaptive experiences that help members stay engaged over time—resulting in meaningful clinical outcomes and measurable financial impact for health plans. Learn more at dariohealth.com. Schedule a Meeting with Omar Manejwala, MD, of Dario: To explore how Dario can support your organization in extending care beyond the clinic and driving sustained behavior change, reach outshow producer, Vekonda Luangaphay at email vluangaphay@brightspotsventures.com to schedule a meeting with Omar Manejwala, MD, Chief Medical Officer, Dario. About Bright Spots Ventures: Bright Spots Ventures is a healthcare strategy and engagement company that creates content, communities, and connections to accelerate innovation. We help healthcare leaders discover what's working, and how to scale it. By bringing together health plan, hospital, and solution leaders, we facilitate the exchange of ideas that lead to measurable impact. Through our podcast, executive councils, private events, and go-to-market strategy work, we surface and amplify the "bright spots" in healthcare, proven innovations others can learn from and replicate. At our core, we exist to create trusted relationships that make real progress possible. Visit our website at www.brightspotsinhealthcare.com.
Dr. Jim Keany, Chief Medical Officer at Dignity Health St. Mary Medical Center in Long Beach, joins The Bill Handel Show for 'Medical News'! Dr. Keany talks with Bill about a universal vaccine, prepping for daylight savings, and Raw milk warning. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Anyone who has experienced chronic lower back pain knows that relief is sometimes difficult to find. Dr. Rohan Lall discusses a groundbreaking new procedure being developed to help those with chronic lower back pain. Dr. Lall is a neurosurgeon specializing in robotic and minimally invasive spine surgery, complex spinal surgery, surgery for brain and spinal tumors, and skull base surgery/pituitary tumor surgery. He has been a leader in robotic spinal surgery and is actively involved in the development of new technologies in spine surgery. He is the Chief Medical Officer of SynerFuse, a Minnesota-based medical device company innovating the spine industry with its integrated approach to spinal fusion and chronic pain. Dr. Lall and SynerFuse can be reached at https://www.synerfuse.com/. The State of Wisconsin's Dose of Reality campaign is at Dose of Reality: Opioids in Wisconsin. More information about the federal response to the ongoing opiate crisis can be found at One Pill Can Kill. The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host or Westwords Consulting. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Subscribe to Our Email List to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
In this episode, Mara Nitu, Vice President and Chief Medical Officer at Indiana University School of Medicine and Riley Hospital for Children, IU Health, joins the podcast to discuss improving care quality and access across pediatric and academic settings. She shares insights on hospital-acquired condition reduction efforts, optimizing access and care coordination, building partnerships for long-term sustainability, and identifying growth opportunities focused on expanding access to care.
Is kratom safe – or is it quietly becoming the next opioid crisis?In this quick-hit episode, Zac sits down with recurring medical contributor Dr. Michael McCormick, Chief Medical Officer at Release Recovery, to clear the air on one of the most polarizing substances in America right now: kratom.Marketed as a natural herbal supplement and sold openly at gas stations and smoke shops, kratom is used by millions for energy, focus, pain relief – and even to help curb opioid withdrawal.But inside treatment centers, doctors are seeing something very different.In this episode, we break down:What kratom actually is (and how it works in the brain)Why low doses act like a stimulant — and high doses act like an opioidWhether kratom withdrawal requires medical detoxWhy it's showing up more and more in addiction treatmentThe truth about “legal” substances and who is most at riskWhy some experts believe it should not be sold over the counterWe're not here to attack people who use it responsibly. We're here to speak to the 10–15% of people predisposed to substance use disorder – the ones who may not know the risk until it's too late.If you or someone you love is using kratom, this conversation could change how you think about it.Connect with Zachttps://www.instagram.com/zwclark/https://www.linkedin.com/in/zac-c-746b96254/https://www.tiktok.com/@zacwclarkhttps://www.strava.com/athletes/55697553https://twitter.com/zacwclarkIf you or anyone you know is struggling, please do not hesitate to contact Release Recovery:(914) 588-6564http://releaserecovery.com@releaserecovery
Dr. Jeffrey Kopin, Chief Medical Officer for Northwestern Medicine Catherine Gratz Griffin Lake Forest Hospital, joins John Williams to talk about the possibility of seeing a single nasal spray vaccine that could protect against all coughs, colds and flus, a new study showing some of the health risks of GLP-1’s, and how AI will impact healthcare.
Dr. Jeffrey Kopin, Chief Medical Officer for Northwestern Medicine Catherine Gratz Griffin Lake Forest Hospital, joins John Williams to talk about the possibility of seeing a single nasal spray vaccine that could protect against all coughs, colds and flus, a new study showing some of the health risks of GLP-1’s, and how AI will impact healthcare.
In this episode, Mara Nitu, Vice President and Chief Medical Officer at Indiana University School of Medicine and Riley Hospital for Children, IU Health, joins the podcast to discuss improving care quality and access across pediatric and academic settings. She shares insights on hospital-acquired condition reduction efforts, optimizing access and care coordination, building partnerships for long-term sustainability, and identifying growth opportunities focused on expanding access to care.
Dr. Jeffrey Kopin, Chief Medical Officer for Northwestern Medicine Catherine Gratz Griffin Lake Forest Hospital, joins John Williams to talk about the possibility of seeing a single nasal spray vaccine that could protect against all coughs, colds and flus, a new study showing some of the health risks of GLP-1’s, and how AI will impact healthcare.
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. David Rabin for a mind-expanding conversation on what we've fundamentally gotten wrong about mental health—and why treating symptoms instead of root causes keeps us stuck. They unpack how smartphones hijack our dopamine, why modern convenience works against our nervous systems, and what it really takes to break free from a chronic sympathetic (fight-or-flight) state. From the ancestral role of dopamine and the science behind hugs to nuanced discussions on anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, psychedelics, and ibogaine, this episode bridges ancient biology with cutting-edge research. Dr. Rabin also dives into the “Ape Theory” and the importance of understanding specific mushroom strains rather than lumping them all together. The conversation wraps with insights on Apollo Neuro, sleep optimization, respiratory rates, the “first night effect,” and a refreshing reminder that living a simple, happy life may be the most powerful biohack of all.Dr. David Rabin, MD, PhD, is a translational neuroscientist, board-certified psychiatrist, health tech entrepreneur & inventor who has been studying the impact of chronic stress in humans for more than two decades. He is the co-founder & Chief Medical Officer at Apollo Neuroscience, which has developed the first scientifically-validated wearable technology that actively improves energy, focus & relaxation, using a novel touch therapy that signals safety to the brain.In addition to his clinical psychiatry practice, Dr. Rabin is currently conducting research on wearable and technology-based solutions for mental illnesses and the mechanism of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy in treatment-resistant mental illnesses. He received his MD in medicine and PhD in neuroscience from Albany Medical College and specialized in psychiatry with a distinction in research at Western Psychiatric Institute & Clinic at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. He has been married to his co-founder, Kathryn Fantauzzi, since 2016.SHOW NOTES:0:40 Welcome to the podcast!4:06 About Dave Rabin5:03 Welcome him to the show!6:36 What have we gotten wrong about mental health?8:15 Interaction with our smart phones11:12 Treating symptoms, not the cause12:25 Breaking free from sympathetic state15:48 The ancestral purpose of dopamine19:06 Patience vs Convenience24:08 Why we need hugs for health28:29 *CALOCURB*29:40 Anxiety & Autism Spectrum Disorder 32:09 When are psychedelics appropriate?35:34 Knowing your mushroom strain39:42 Ibogaine benefits46:21 Germ theory & antibiotics51:12 The Ape Theory57:13 About the Apollo1:03:05 How it increases deep & REM sleep1:04:01 Average respiratory rates1:08:05 “First Night Effect”1:08:54 How to live a simple, happy life1:11:32 “The Four Agreements”1:15:03 His final piece of advice1:17:40 Thanks for tuning in!RESOURCES:Calocurb - code: RENEE10_______________Website: David Rabin MD, PhD, Apollo NeuroApollo Neuro - Discount code: BIOHACKERBABESDr. Rabin's Book: A Simple Guide to Being AliveInstagram: @drdavidrabinTwitter: @daverabinWikipedia: David Rabin MD, PhDPodcast Website: The Psychedelic NewsDocumentaries: How to Change Your Mind, War in WavesMycology Psychology FREE Community CallSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/biohacker-babes-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Welcome to Resiliency Radio with Dr. Jill Carnahan, where today's episode explores one of the most debated and rapidly evolving topics in environmental medicine: Therapeutic Plasma Exchange (TPE) for toxic mold illness and chronic inflammatory syndromes. Dr. Jill is joined by Dr. Paul Savage, founder of MDLifespan, to break down the science, safety, and real-world application of TPE and the patent-pending PlasmaXchange™ protocol. For many patients struggling with persistent mold toxicity, autoimmune flares, chronic inflammation, and toxic burden, traditional detox strategies—binders, sauna, fasting, chelation—may not be enough. This episode provides an evidence-informed, transparent Q&A exploring whether Therapeutic Plasma Exchange could be a missing link in complex recovery cases. Together, they examine what TPE actually removes from the bloodstream, who may benefit most, potential risks and contraindications, and how clinicians measure outcomes before and after treatment. ✨ Like, subscribe, and share to help more patients and practitioners understand advanced options for toxic mold and environmental illness recovery.
Dr. Justin Schrager, Founder and Chief Medical Officer at Vital, aims to address poor communication in acute care settings such as hospitals and urgent care centers. Vital's software platform provides patients with real-time, understandable information on their own devices via a secure website. This AI-powered system is designed to provide updates on lab results and educational content, and to augment clinical care without adding to the workload of doctors and nurses. Justin explains, "We make software for the hospital, urgent care, and inpatient settings. The problem is that communication suffers when you get busier. So the busier you are, the less communication happens. It's a bit of a catch-22. And it's sort of treated as an expendable action when things are really critical. I'm an ER doctor. I understand that. And so we're trying to solve that problem by essentially communicating to patients, keeping them up to date, and helping the clinical staff out when they frankly don't have a lot of time to share a lot of the kinds of information that we're able to show patients." "Access is at such a deficit right now that the vast majority of the healthcare we provide in the hospital and the ER specifically is for patients who are wide awake, thinking clearly, have family members there with them, and they just have an urgency. Sore throat, can't swallow, broken arm, things that aren't necessarily life-threatening or even limb-threatening, but they're urgent, and they need to be dealt with in a timely fashion. And so I think that's really where our software plays best." #Vitalio #HealthcareInnovation #PatientEngagement #AIinHealthcare #DigitalHealth #HealthTech #PatientExperience #HealthcareCommunication #MedicalAI #HospitalTechnology #PatientCare #PatientSafety vital.io Listen to the podcast here
Dr. Justin Schrager, Founder and Chief Medical Officer at Vital, aims to address poor communication in acute care settings such as hospitals and urgent care centers. Vital's software platform provides patients with real-time, understandable information on their own devices via a secure website. This AI-powered system is designed to provide updates on lab results and educational content, and to augment clinical care without adding to the workload of doctors and nurses. Justin explains, "We make software for the hospital, urgent care, and inpatient settings. The problem is that communication suffers when you get busier. So the busier you are, the less communication happens. It's a bit of a catch-22. And it's sort of treated as an expendable action when things are really critical. I'm an ER doctor. I understand that. And so we're trying to solve that problem by essentially communicating to patients, keeping them up to date, and helping the clinical staff out when they frankly don't have a lot of time to share a lot of the kinds of information that we're able to show patients." "Access is at such a deficit right now that the vast majority of the healthcare we provide in the hospital and the ER specifically is for patients who are wide awake, thinking clearly, have family members there with them, and they just have an urgency. Sore throat, can't swallow, broken arm, things that aren't necessarily life-threatening or even limb-threatening, but they're urgent, and they need to be dealt with in a timely fashion. And so I think that's really where our software plays best." #Vitalio #HealthcareInnovation #PatientEngagement #AIinHealthcare #DigitalHealth #HealthTech #PatientExperience #HealthcareCommunication #MedicalAI #HospitalTechnology #PatientCare #PatientSafety vital.io Download the transcript here
Chief Medical Officer at Central DuPage Hospital Dr. Thomas Moran joins Bob Sirott to talk about heart attack symptoms for women and why more people under 55 are dying from heart attacks, as well as a study on men aging faster due to forever chemicals. He also discusses the impact of drinking soda on your […]
Aubrey Masango speaks to Dr Chris Hendriks, Chief Medical Officer at Decentra Health and Chief Community Impact Officer at A Rare Cause to discuss the state of rare diseases in South Africa; the efforts being made to support patients and families. Tags: 702, Aubrey Masango show, Aubrey Masango, Bra Aubrey, Dr Chris Hendriks, Decentra Health, Rare Disease, Bicornuate uterus, Charge Syndrome The Aubrey Masango Show is presented by late night radio broadcaster Aubrey Masango. Aubrey hosts in-depth interviews on controversial political issues and chats to experts offering life advice and guidance in areas of psychology, personal finance and more. All Aubrey’s interviews are podcasted for you to catch-up and listen. Thank you for listening to this podcast from The Aubrey Masango Show. Listen live on weekdays between 20:00 and 24:00 (SA Time) to The Aubrey Masango Show broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and on CapeTalk between 20:00 and 21:00 (SA Time) https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk Find out more about the show here https://buff.ly/lzyKCv0 and get all the catch-up podcasts https://buff.ly/rT6znsn Subscribe to the 702 and CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/v5mfet Follow us on social media: 702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/Radio702 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702 CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dr. Robert Russell, Chief Medical Officer at Majestic Health, joins us to share what led him into geriatric medicine and why he believes caring for older adults is some of the most meaningful work a physician can do. He explains what his role entails, how families can advocate for their loved ones within a medical team, and the top three concerns facing our aging population today. We also talk about Alzheimer's disease and dementia, including why cognitive decline should never be dismissed as a normal part of aging.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this episode, Saria Saccocio, MD, MHA, Chief Medical Officer of Essence Healthcare, discusses the growing collaboration between payers and providers, the push for site neutral care and pharmacy cost reform, and the need for stronger investment in cardiometabolic and population health. She also shares how quality performance, member experience, and social determinants of health are shaping health plan strategy and margins heading into 2026.
In this episode, Dr. Mayank K. Shah, Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of Advocate Condell Medical Center, part of Advocate Aurora Health, shares how his team elevated safety and quality to top Leapfrog grades, advanced AI adoption, and is building agility to navigate regulatory uncertainty and expand community focused care.
In this episode of Talking Sleep, host Dr. Seema Khosla welcomes Dr. David McCarty, a sleep physician based in Colorado and Chief Medical Officer for REBIS HEALTH, to discuss the unique challenges of diagnosing and treating central sleep apnea at high altitude. Living and practicing sleep medicine in Colorado has given Dr. McCarty extensive experience managing altitude-related central sleep apnea, a condition that affects many residents and visitors to elevated regions. The conversation begins with fundamental questions: Is central sleep apnea normal at altitude? What physiological mechanisms drive its development? Dr. McCarty explains the prevalence patterns across different elevations, from Denver's mile-high altitude to extreme elevations like 10,000 feet, and whether there's a threshold where everyone develops central events. Practical diagnostic considerations receive detailed attention: Should patients be tested at their home altitude? How are titration studies conducted in high-altitude settings? What testing equipment best identifies central apneas, and should central hypopneas be scored? Dr. McCarty discusses the high prevalence of treatment-emergent central sleep apnea (TECSA) at altitude and how many patients present with mixed obstructive and central patterns, complicating treatment decisions. The episode provides essential guidance for clinicians whose patients travel to high altitude destinations. What PAP adjustments should be made? How should EPR (expiratory pressure relief) settings be modified? Dr. McCarty walks through his decision-making framework for when to treat altitude-related central apnea, emphasizing the importance of patient education before ascension. Treatment options are systematically reviewed: pressure adjustments, the role of BPAP therapy, when to consider ASV, acetazolamide use, and supplemental oxygen. Dr. McCarty discusses whether pre-emptive treatment is appropriate for patients planning high-altitude travel and provides practical protocols for managing both residents who live at altitude and visitors experiencing acute exposure. The conversation emphasizes patient-centered approaches, considering not just the physiological aspects of altitude-related breathing disturbances but also the practical realities of treating patients in mountain communities and preparing lowland residents for high-altitude adventures. Whether you practice in elevated regions, have patients who travel to altitude destinations, or simply want to understand the physiology behind altitude-related central sleep apnea, this episode provides essential clinical guidance. Join us for this informative discussion about a condition that affects millions living at or traveling to high elevations.
When employers look at all of the point solutions that are out there to add to their list of employee benefits, the top three should be… Primary care Primary care Primary care As a family medicine physician with an extensive background in advanced primary care, our guest today knows how true this is not just in theory, but in practice. Her work these days is getting employers to see the import of this investment as well. In her role as Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Marla McLaughlin partners directly with employers to identify workforce health priorities, design targeted strategies and apply real-time clinical insights to improve outcomes. Dr. McLaughlin has dedicated her career to expanding access to high-quality primary care, guiding patients to the right care at the right time and fostering trusted patient-provider relationships. She believes the most effective healthcare combines technology with human-centric care to improve outcomes and experiences. McLaughlin brings that perspective and passion to Castlight Health and Vera Whole Health, where she plays a pivotal role in strengthening clinical operations, improving care quality and enhancing both patient and care team experiences.
(February 25, 2026) 1 int 10 Cal State students face homelessness… this emergency housing program helps. LAUSD shows big improvement in Advancement Placement class enrollment. Dr. Jim Keany, Chief Medical Officer at Dignity Health St. Mary Medical Center in Long Beach, joins The Bill Handel Show for 'Medical News'! Dr. Keany talks with Bill about nearsightedness having surged to near-epidemic levels, pulmonary embolisms, and early signs of heart attacks for women.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, Douglas A. Ross, MD, CPE, FACS, Chief Medical Officer at AdventHealth Carrollwood, discusses rising pressures from age related neurological conditions, the shift toward team based and community anchored care models, and how biomarkers, functional imaging, and AI supported screening are reshaping early detection and treatment across the AdventHealth network.
A major measles outbreak is testing public health systems, community trust, and the power of vaccination. In this episode, Dr. Brannon Traxler, ASTHO member and Deputy Director of Health Promotion and Services & Chief Medical Officer, South Carolina Department of Public Health, shares the latest update on the state's response, with nearly 1,000 confirmed cases since October 2025. She explains why vaccination remains the cornerstone of outbreak control, how rapid case identification and contact tracing are helping to slow transmission, and what health officials are learning about spread within large, close-knit households. Then, Heather Tomlinson, Senior Analyst of Environmental Health at the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials, breaks down the growing presence of kratom in U.S. markets. She explains its traditional use in Southeast Asia, how modern products differ from natural leaf preparations, and why highly concentrated or synthetic compounds are raising new health concerns. With federal guidance still evolving, states are developing a patchwork of policies—offering lessons for how public health can respond to emerging psychoactive substances.youtube.com/watch?v=cNt_Wgu8LqEKratom 101: What You Need to Know | ASTHOASTHO (@ASTHO) on XAssociation of State and Territorial Health Officials (@asthonews.bsky.social)Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (@asthonews) • Instagram profilehttps://www.linkedin.com/company/association-of-state-and-territorial-health-officials/ASTHO (Association of State and Territorial Health Officials)
If you're a woman in your late 30s, 40s, or 50s and you feel swollen, inflamed, stuck, exhausted, or like your body has completely turned against you — this series is for you. Let's be clear: This is NOT a diet episode. This is NOT food shaming. This is NOT about willpower. This is upstream endocrinology. In this episode, Dr. McCarthy explains: Why weight gain in perimenopause is not a discipline problem How estrogen dominance and low progesterone shift insulin sensitivity Why stress hormones (like cortisol) amplify fat storage How ultra-processed, hyper-palatable foods hijack your brain Why traditional diets (keto, low-fat, carnivore) often fail women The real role of insulin as a routing hormone — not just a blood sugar hormone Why GLP-1 medications can help — but shouldn't become “handcuffs” Most nutrition research was built on male physiology. You are not a small man. And it was never a fair fight. Dr. Brendan McCarthy is the founder and Chief Medical Officer of Protea Medical Center in Arizona. With over two decades of experience, he's helped thousands of patients navigate hormonal imbalances using bioidentical HRT, nutrition, and root-cause medicine. He's also taught and mentored other physicians on integrative approaches to hormone therapy, weight loss, fertility, and more. If you're ready to take your health seriously, this podcast is a great place to start.
In this episode, Matt Boles, MD, MHA, MSc, Chief Medical Officer at Salem Health Hospitals and Clinics, joins the podcast to reflect on the early stages of his executive journey in medicine. He discusses procedural capacity challenges, key priorities for 2026 including physician shortages, and areas for organizational growth, with a focus on the evolving role of the medical executive committee.
What does it really mean to own your fertility? In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Jaime Knopman from CCRM Fertility of New York and author of Own Your Fertility, for a candid conversation about egg freezing, fertility preservation, and grief. Dr. Knopman shares what inspired her to write the book, who it's for, and why fertility preservation can be one of the first acts of agency in reproductive health. We unpack common misconceptions about egg freezing. The conversation also turns to a topic often left unspoken: fertility-related grief. Dr. Knopman reflects on how grief shows up when timelines shift and how patients can hold both hope and loss at the same time. This episode is for anyone navigating fertility decisions, questioning timing, or seeking clarity and compassion along the journey. Own Your Fertility is now available on Amazon! Guest: Dr. Jaime Knopman, Board-Certified Reproductive Endocrinologist and Director of Fertility Preservation for CCRM Fertility of New York Hosts: Dr. Janet Choi, Chief Medical Officer, Progyny Lissa Kline, LCSW, SVP, Provider and Member Services, Progyny --- For more information, visit Progyny's Education page. This show does not constitute medical advice. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @progynyinc, and subscribe to our YouTube channel for more resources. Music: YH1DOJKVSNXFR8GG (00:00) - Intro (01:58) - Why egg freezing and grief? (02:26) - Fertility preservation and egg freezing (05:06) - What is a good age to freeze eggs? (07:04) - If I freeze my eggs am I losing eggs? (08:55) - Egg freezing and birth control (09:30) - Breast cancer and fertility preservation (10:00) - Grief and family building (13:28) - The role of partners and community in family building (15:06) - Dr Knopman's Book! (16:12) - Fertility benefits create better outcomes (18:22) - Resilience (00:00) - Chapter 13 (00:00) - Chapter 14