Podcasts about uk healthcare

LEXINGTON, Ky. (June 4, 2026) – A new partnership at Golisano Children's at UK will help put books directly into the hands of Kentucky children and families. On this episode of Behind the Blue, host Kody Kiser talks with Kelsey Rahenkamp of Golisano Children's at UK, Lindsey Westerfield of Dolly Parton's Imagination Library of Kentucky and Dr. Anna Thamann, a neonatal neurologist at UK HealthCare, about the hospital becoming an official enrollment location for Dolly Parton's Imagination Library.  Through the partnership, families coming through Golisano Children's at UK can enroll children under age 5 in the program and receive their first book before they leave. Children enrolled in Imagination Library receive a free, high-quality, age-appropriate book in the mail each month until they turn 5, at no cost to families.  Rahenkamp explains that families do not have to be patients to sign up. Patients, siblings, visitors, grandparents and others can enroll eligible children while at the hospital by scanning posted QR codes or visiting the pediatric education center for help with enrollment and to receive the first book.  The episode also explores the broader impact of early literacy. Westerfield discusses the history and statewide reach of Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, which is now available in every county in Kentucky. She also shares research showing that children enrolled in the program are more likely to be read to regularly and more likely to demonstrate early literacy and kindergarten readiness skills.  Thamann explains what happens in a child's brain during the first months and years of life, and why reading, talking and shared time with parents and caregivers can support language development, bonding and emotional connection. She describes parents, teachers and caregivers as "brain changers," helping shape early development through simple, everyday interactions.  Together, the guests discuss why a children's hospital is a natural partner for a literacy program and how access to books can support the whole child, from physical health to development, confidence and long-term success. To learn more about Dolly Parton's Imagination Library of Kentucky or to enroll a child, visit imaginationlibrary.com. 'Behind the Blue' is available via a variety of podcast providers, including Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify. Subscribe to receive new episodes each week, featuring UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists, writers and the most important news impacting the university. 'Behind the Blue' is a production of the University of Kentucky. Transcripts for most episodes are now embedded in the audio file and can be accessed in many podcast apps during playback. Transcripts for older episodes remain available on the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here. This interview has been edited for time and clarity.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (May 28, 2026) – When someone we care about is going through something painful, many of us struggle with the same question: What do I say? On this episode of Behind the Blue, Dr. Abbie Latimer, an assistant professor in the University of Kentucky College of Social Work, talks about hospice and palliative care, serious illness communication and how people can better support one another during difficult moments. Latimer also holds an affiliate appointment in the UK College of Medicine's Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Palliative and Supportive Care.  Before joining the faculty, Latimer worked as a palliative care social worker with UK HealthCare, helping build the inpatient palliative care team and supporting patients, families and care teams through some of life's most difficult conversations. Her current work focuses on research and teaching around serious illness, moral distress, communication and psychosocial care.  Latimer recently spoke at TEDxUKY, where she shared the story of a patient she called "Fred" and explored questions many people face when someone they care about is suffering: What do I say? Why do I sometimes pull away? And how do I find my way back to simply being present? In the conversation, Latimer explains the difference between hospice and palliative care and discusses the broad role social workers play in helping patients and their care systems, including family members, friends, clinicians and community support networks. She also describes why difficult emotions can cause people to reach for familiar phrases such as "hang in there," "stay positive" or "thoughts and prayers," even when those phrases may unintentionally create distance.  Latimer encourages listeners to focus less on finding the perfect words and more on asking open, compassionate questions. Simple prompts such as "Is it okay if we talk about this?" or "What are you most worried about?" can open the door to deeper connection without placing pressure on either person to fix what cannot be fixed.  The episode also explores how silence, presence and listening without an agenda can be meaningful forms of support. Latimer says sometimes the most helpful response is not a solution, but a willingness to sit with someone in the reality of what they are facing. 'Behind the Blue' is available via a variety of podcast providers, including Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify. Subscribe to receive new episodes each week, featuring UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists, writers and the most important news impacting the university. 'Behind the Blue' is a production of the University of Kentucky. Transcripts for most episodes are now embedded in the audio file and can be accessed in many podcast apps during playback. Transcripts for older episodes remain available on the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here. This interview has been edited for time and clarity.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (May 26, 2026) — When NASA's Artemis II mission sent four astronauts on a path around the moon — farther from Earth than any humans have traveled in decades — the world watched in awe.  Yet, one of the most critical parts of the journey remained invisible.  For a team of faculty, staff and students in the Stanley and Karen Pigman College of Engineering at University of Kentucky, that unseen work is their expertise.  Artemis II shows how research — right here in Kentucky — is helping address one of human spaceflight's most dangerous challenges: surviving the fiery return to Earth.  "Whatever energy you have coming back from the moon has to go somewhere," Alexandre Martin, Ph.D., professor of aerospace engineering and director of the Kentucky Space Grant Consortium and NASA EPSCoR programs, said.  "And most of it becomes heat. Without a heat shield, there is no safe return."  On this edition of "Behind the Blue," three UK researchers share how their work made the "Mission to the Moon" possible — offering an inside look at the innovation behind heat shield technology and the role UK plays in advancing it.  You'll hear from Martin, Savio Poovathingal, and Michael Renfro about why re-entry is so challenging, how UK's research helped explain what NASA saw after Artemis I, and how students are central to this work, from lab analysis to flight-testing materials in UK-led capsule projects. Learn more about UK's aerospace programs and their role in advancing space exploration at engr.uky.edu/undergraduate/aerospace-engineering.   "Behind the Blue" is available via a variety of podcast providers, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Subscribe to receive new episodes each week, featuring UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists, writers and the most important news impacting the university.  "Behind the Blue" is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of "Behind the Blue" can be downloaded from the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.  This interview has been edited for time and clarity. This research was supported by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) through the Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR) award numbers 80NSSC22M0034 and 80NSSC22M0174, awarded to the University of Kentucky.  The material is based upon work supported by NASA under award Nos. 80NSSC21K0286, 80NSSC21K1117 and 80NSSC20M0047. Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. 

Defining and documenting pharmacist interventions beyond prescription revenue is essential to demonstrating the full value of pharmacy teams. Host Carolyn Liptak is joined by Dr. Karen Thomas from the University of Illinois Chicago and Dr. Thom Platt from UK Healthcare to share insights from a multi-system survey exploring how interventions are captured and used. They discuss the variability in current practices, the important role of both pharmacists and technicians, and the opportunity to better quantify clinical and operational impact to C-suite.  Guests:  Karen C. Thomas, PharmD, PhD, MBA Associate Director, Specialty and Infusion Pharmacies  University of Illinois Hospital and Health System   Thom Platt, PharmD, PhD, MBA ,BCPS Director of Specialty Pharmacy Services  UK HealthCare    Host:   Carolyn Liptak, MBA, BS Pharm Pharmacy Executive Director, Regulatory Compliance Vizient Center for Pharmacy Practice Excellence     Show Notes:  00:05 – Introduction Overview of VerifiedRx and the focus on pharmacy practice excellence. 00:14 – Episode Overview & Guest Introductions Host Carolyn Liptak introduces the topic: capturing the value of pharmacist interventions beyond prescription revenue. Guests: Dr. Karen Thomas, University of Illinois Chicago Dr. Thom Platt, UK Healthcare 00:57 – Health System Backgrounds UIC serves a diverse urban population with a strong Medicaid and Medicare presence UK Healthcare supports patients across Kentucky and surrounding states, including rural populations traveling long distances for specialty care 01:48 – What Sparked the Research Originated from a Vizient work group focused on outcomes and value Need for clearer frameworks to document and report pharmacist interventions Lack of standardized guidance from accrediting bodies and payers 02:56 – Survey Goals and Key Findings Explored how health systems define and document interventions Identified major variability in data collection and reporting Found alignment in defining clinical interventions, less consistency in non clinical ones Included responses from 24 health systems 04:21 – Broader Impact on Pharmacy Practice Reinforces the value of pharmacist contributions beyond revenue Highlights prevention of hospital visits and improved patient outcomes Emphasizes the need to better capture and communicate this value 05:38 – Applying the Research in Practice UIC developed a structured framework and documentation tool Supports initiatives like waste avoidance studies Aims to quantify cost savings from pharmacist interventions 06:49 – Relevance Beyond Specialty Pharmacy Concepts apply across all pharmacy settings Data can support staffing, funding, and program expansion decisions Helps communicate value to internal and external stakeholders 07:52 – Role of Pharmacy Technicians 96 percent of sites report technician involvement in non clinical interventions Examples include resolving medication access issues and addressing social barriers Technicians play a critical role in patient support and care coordination 09:58 – Future Opportunities Push toward standardizing intervention data collection Opportunity to reduce duplication of effort across health systems Goal to create scalable, shared frameworks 10:41 – Strategic Value of Intervention Data Supports conversations with leadership and external partners Demonstrates impact on outcomes like reduced ED visits and length of stay Strengthens partnerships with payers and manufacturers 11:34 – Additional Resources Study published in the Online Journal of Pharmacy Link available for listeners to explore further 12:03 – Closing Remarks Final thoughts and appreciation for guests Call to action: subscribe, share feedback, and stay engaged with VerifiedRx   Links and Resources: https://www.mdpi.com/2226-4787/13/6/172   Subscribe Today!  Apple Podcasts  Spotify  YouTube  RSS Feed     

Latest News/Headlines | Traffic | Weather | Sports Topic I: AI Job Scams: When Opportunity Turns into Exploitation Topic II: Not Being Heard: The Hidden Crisis Facing Women in UK Healthcare Presenter(s):
Imam Nabeel Ahmed & Imam Zeriab Rahman Guest(s): * Dr. Celestine Iwendi * Mr. Giles Mason * Dr. Naveed Akhtar * Rachel Power * Dr. Sami Salam Producer(s): Zoha Nadeem and Kashifa Malik Lead Producer: Faiza Cheema Researchers: Touqeer Ahmed Rana, Hassam Walid, Jazibah Khorram, Faryaal Munir, Natasha Sabah Un Naseer

LEXINGTON, Ky. (May 7, 2026) — Growing up on a farm in Paris, Kentucky, Jinger Ballinger's future seemed mapped out long before she had the chance to imagine anything different. Days were spent working alongside her family raising tobacco — a life rooted in hard work, but far removed from classrooms, cap-and-gown ceremonies or college dreams.  In high school, Ballinger made a decision that would shape the next chapter of her life: she left high school at age 15 to work full-time on the farm. Years passed. She got married, raised five children and built a life, but quietly, a question lingered.  "What if?"  When her children got older, Ballinger took her first step back into education by enrolling in community college, earning an associate degree. Around the same time, she began working at the University of Kentucky in an entry-level role making ID badges — her first exposure to campus life.  What started as a job quickly became something more.  "I decided, one way or another, I was going to get my bachelor's degree," she said.   As a first-generation college student, Ballinger entered unfamiliar territory. She hadn't grown up around higher education and the transition wasn't easy. Early on, even simple assignments felt overwhelming. But instead of discouraging her, those moments became part of the process.  "I had never done anything like that before," she said. "It was a learning curve for me."   With the support of advisors and professors, she adapted — and thrived.  Ballinger chose to pursue a degree in communication from the College of Communication and Information, a decision that would prove transformative both professionally and personally.  Through her coursework, she developed skills she had never been exposed to — from digital tools to public speaking — skills that directly impacted her career.   "I only knew the dialect I learned on the farm," she said. "The college helped me learn how to present myself in a professional setting."   That growth paid off. Ballinger began working as an account clerk at UK's Veterinary Diagnostic Lab's business office. Then, while completing her degree, she earned promotions, eventually becoming an Accounts Payable supervisor with UK HealthCare — a role she never imagined for herself years earlier.  "Every aspect of my life that I know today has been afforded to me in large part by the University of Kentucky. And I started out in a very, very entry level position and it was a great job," she said. "I enjoyed and it was honestly the first time that I ever had to learn to navigate Lexington by myself. To be able to look back to that time and to now is incredible that we've come this far."  At the same time, she excelled academically, earning a spot on the Dean's List twice and maintaining a 3.8 GPA.  ****  Ballinger's journey wasn't just about returning to school — it was about doing so while balancing the demands of life.  "There were a million times I thought, 'I can't do this,'" she said. "But I didn't quit."   That determination didn't go unnoticed — especially at home.  Her children watched her push through exhaustion, stress and doubt. And in doing so, she changed how they saw their own futures.  Her daughter, once skeptical of college, now hopes to pursue higher education herself.  "They've seen that where you start isn't where you have to stay," Ballinger said.   On graduation day, Ballinger won't be walking that stage alone.   Her journey has been shared every step of the way by her faith and her family, especially her children, who have witnessed her perseverance firsthand.  "For them to see that we can come through anything as a family — that means everything," she said.   One moment stands out above the rest: receiving her cap and gown alongside her mother, who had never experienced the milestone of witnessing her daughter graduate.  "My mom was just grinning from ear to ear," Ballinger said. "It was something we had both waited a long time for."   For Ballinger, graduation isn't the finish line — it's the beginning of something even bigger.  Already accepted into UK's MBA program, she plans to continue building her career in accounting and expanding her leadership opportunities.  "I've got the soft skills now," she said. "But I want to keep growing."   If there's one message Ballinger hopes others take from her story, it's simple:  "It's never too late."  Hear Ballinger's full story on this week's special edition of "Behind the Blue."  "Behind the Blue" is available via a variety of podcast providers, including Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify. Subscribe to receive new episodes each week, featuring UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists, writers and the most important news impacting the university.  "Behind the Blue" is a production of the University of Kentucky. Transcripts for most episodes are now embedded in the audio file and can be accessed in many podcast apps during playback. Transcripts for older episodes remain available on the show's blog page.   Discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing the Commonwealth.  This interview has been edited for time and clarity.  As the state's flagship, land-grant institution, the University of Kentucky exists to advance the Commonwealth. We do that by preparing the next generation of leaders — placing students at the heart of everything we do — and transforming the lives of Kentuckians through education, research and creative work, service and healthcare. We pride ourselves on being a catalyst for breakthroughs and a force for healing, a place where ingenuity unfolds. It's all made possible by our people — visionaries, disruptors and pioneers — who make up 200 academic programs, a $1.02 billion research and development enterprise and a world-class medical center, all on one campus.

Each year UK Athletics, UK HealthCare and the UK Sanders-Brown Center on Aging partner for a game honoring legendary basketball coach Pat Summitt — who battled Alzheimer's disease with remarkable courage. This year, as part of the contest, Pete Nelson, M.D., Ph.D., the R.C. Durr Foundation Chair in Alzheimer's Disease at UK, was recognized for his groundbreaking work. He talks about it with Dr. Greg.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (April 9, 2026) – When people hear that the University of Kentucky has an $8.6 billion budget, it can sound like a single pot of money. In reality, that figure represents an "all-in" financial plan that supports everything from patient care and research to student success, facilities, and the daily operations that keep a major public university running. On this week's episode of Behind the Blue, UK Strategic Communications' Kody Kiser is joined by Dr. Eric Monday, the University of Kentucky's executive vice president for finance and administration, for another installment of The Business of UK. The series is designed to bring greater clarity and transparency to how the university works.  In the conversation, recorded earlier this spring, Monday breaks down what the $8.6 billion figure includes and how it is structured. He notes that roughly $5.1 billion is associated with UK HealthCare, about $3.3 billion supports the university's education, research, and public service mission, and roughly $200 million is tied to athletics. He also explains that the university's fiscal year runs from July 1 through June 30. The budget itself is a plan built from months of work and reviewed and approved by the UK Board of Trustees. Monday addresses common misconceptions about the size of the budget, including the assumption that a large number automatically means unlimited flexibility. He explains that much of the university's budget is restricted by purpose, including grant funding, philanthropic gifts, and certain reimbursements. Only a portion of funds can be shifted to address changing needs or priorities. The episode also explores the state's role in supporting UK's mission. Monday notes that in fiscal year 2026, Kentucky's state appropriation is $364 million, which is about four percent of the total budget. He describes it as the foundational investment that helps make possible the rest of the university's work, including supporting instruction, keeping academic buildings running, and enabling capital projects. Finally, the discussion looks at how external factors can influence budget planning, including shifts in federal grants, changes in health care reimbursement, and broader economic volatility. Monday also highlights how UK works with partners at the state, federal, and local levels, along with public-private partnerships, to invest in facilities and capacity that expand the university's ability to serve Kentuckians. Listeners are encouraged to submit questions and ideas for future 'Business of UK' episodes by emailing businessofUK@uky.edu. Upcoming installments will explore how the university operates as a complex organization, including how decisions are made and resources are managed across the institution, as well as how UK works with partners in Kentucky and beyond to advance education, research, health, and service at a statewide, national, and global scale. 'Behind the Blue' is available via a variety of podcast providers, including Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify. Subscribe to receive new episodes each week, featuring UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists, writers and the most important news impacting the university. 'Behind the Blue' is a production of the University of Kentucky. Transcripts for most episodes are now embedded in the audio file and can be accessed in many podcast apps during playback. Transcripts for older episodes remain available on the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here. This interview has been edited for time and clarity.

Providers from UK HealthCare Advanced Eye Care discuss the services available to individuals with low vision.  Learn more about Alexis Showalter D'Arsie, OD, FAAO  Learn more about Dr. Courtney Couch  Learn more about Erica Ballard, OD 

LEXINGTON, Ky. (March 18, 2026) – March Madness is built on split-second decisions, emotional swings and the thrill of uncertainty. From game-winning shots and busted brackets to late-night tip-offs and watch parties with friends, the NCAA tournament offers more than drama on the court — it also creates a window into how people think, react, connect and make meaning through sports. Using the science and humanity behind those moments, the tournament can serve as a lens to explore pressure, sleep, brain health and identity.  Across UK's campus, experts in social work, neurology, aging and sociology study the kinds of moments March Madness brings into focus — from performance under pressure to the effects of lost sleep, from the role of social connection in brain health to the personal and cultural identities reflected in the brackets fans fill out each spring. On this episode of 'Behind the Blue', we talk with several of those experts: Matt Moore, associate dean of academic and student affairs in the UK College of Social Work; Dr. Subhendu Rath, assistant professor of neurology with UK HealthCare's Kentucky Neuroscience Institute; Dr. Elizabeth Rhodus and Dr. Gregory Jicha of UK's Sanders-Brown Center on Aging; and Caroline Brooks, a sociology professor in the UK College of Arts and Sciences. Moore explains why athletes who appear "clutch" are often relying on preparation, repetition and the ability to focus on what they can control; Rath outlines how even modest sleep loss during tournament season can affect attention, memory, mood and reaction time; and Rhodus, Jicha and Brooks examine how March Madness can foster brain engagement, social connection and a sense of belonging — while also revealing the subtle biases fans bring to the brackets they fill out each spring. 'Behind the Blue' is available via a variety of podcast providers, including Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify. Subscribe to receive new episodes each week, featuring UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists, writers and the most important news impacting the university. 'Behind the Blue' is a production of the University of Kentucky. Transcripts for most episodes are now embedded in the audio file and can be accessed in many podcast apps during playback. Transcripts for older episodes remain available on the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here. This interview has been edited for time and clarity.

A partnership between the University of Kentucky's College of Public Health and UK HealthCare is giving public health students a front-row seat to the real-world challenges Kentuckians face outside of hospital walls. That includes things like housing, transportation and food insecurity. Dr. Greg talks with Kylee Causey social needs coordinator at UK HealthCare, and Jessica Sass, executive director of population health at UK HealthCare.

Finn Stevenson, co-founder and chief executive officer of Flok Health, discusses the slow pace of change and the strategic shortfalls of public health organisations, the real-world health impact of these challenges and why tech is one part of the solution needed. Flok Health is an AI-powered physiotherapy clinic that provides patients with virtual appointments to treat back pain. The platform fuses AI and human physiotherapists for personalised care without long waiting lists. 

 LEXINGTON, Ky. (February 20, 2026) – UK HealthCare is an academic health system made up of the University of Kentucky's hospitals and clinics — about 9,000 team members, more than 80 specialized clinics and 140-plus outreach programs — in fiscal year 2023 alone, it served Kentuckians through roughly 1.4 million outpatient visits. Suffice it to say, UK HealthCare is a driver for positive healthcare outcomes in the Commonwealth. On this week's episode of 'Behind the Blue', we're bringing you another installment of 'The Business of UK' — a special feature hosted by Dr. Eric Monday, the University of Kentucky's executive vice president for finance and administration, and Co-executive vice president for health administration.  In this conversation, Dr. Monday talks with Craig Collins, senior vice president and chief financial officer of UK HealthCare, and CEO of Beyond Blue — the affiliated organization that helps support and expand UK's work across the Commonwealth. Together, they break down what Beyond Blue is, why it exists, and how major initiatives like Project Blue-Connect and Integrate Blue are designed to strengthen systems, reduce risk, improve security, and ultimately help UK HealthCare serve more patients — closer to home. Listeners are encouraged to submit questions and ideas for future 'Business of UK' episodes by emailing businessofUK@uky.edu. Upcoming installments will focus on the university's $8.7 billion enterprise budget, how it is structured, and how resources are allocated across education, research, health care and service throughout the Commonwealth. 'Behind the Blue' is available via a variety of podcast providers, including Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify. Subscribe to receive new episodes each week, featuring UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists, writers and the most important news impacting the university. 'Behind the Blue' is a production of the University of Kentucky. Transcripts for this or other episodes of 'Behind the Blue' can be downloaded from the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

February is American Heart Month, dedicated to raising awareness that cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for U.S. women. Dr. Greg talks with Nouran Sorour, M.D., associate professor of internal medicine in the UK College of Medicine and cardiologist at UK HealthCare's Gill Heart & Vascular Institute, about why heart disease is so often undiagnosed in women.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (February 5, 2026) – From College of Medicine research labs to the halls of UK HealthCare, Lindsay Ragsdale, M.D., has spent much of her career here at the University of Kentucky. Now the chief medical officer for Golisano Children's at UK, she oversees a growing team of specialists and subspecialists dedicated to providing the most complex care for the children of Kentucky. In this episode of "Behind the Blue," Ragsdale discusses her career at UK, the role of palliative care, the growth of the children's hospital and her own son's experience as a pediatric cardiology patient. As a "Woman of Impact" nominee for the American Heart Association's current fundraising campaign, she also highlights how AHA helps fund an important initiative overseen by a Golisano team – Project ADAM in Kentucky. Below are highlights from the conversation, and you can listen to the full episode through the media player at the top of the page. Building a foundation of pediatric palliative care A Tennessee native, Ragsdale attended Centre College in Danville, Kentucky, and came to UK for medical school and residency. She began her medical journey as a researcher, working in the UK College of Medicine's Department of Physiology and studying potential ways to prevent damage from heart attacks. "[Research] was really a helpful thing for me to test out; I love being curious about questions," she said. "'Why is this happening? Can we prove it?' So it was really the basis for my scientific mind, but I love people. And I think being in the lab really proved to me that I love teamwork, I love building teams, and I really wanted to get into clinical medicine."   Ultimately, Ragsdale chose to go into pediatric palliative care — a branch of medicine that focuses on pain relief, symptom management and quality of life for young patients with serious illnesses. After practicing at children's hospitals in Pennsylvania, Ragsdale was recruited back to UK HealthCare. At the time, a palliative care program for the children's hospital didn't exist, so developing this specialty for UK was a priority. "We really built this from the ground-up along the way," she said. "Our team is interdisciplinary - we have other physicians, a nurse practitioner, bereavement coordinator, pharmacist, nurse, and chaplain that all collaborate on patient care. And we have been able to establish an entire new field at the Children's Hospital. It's a different kind of medicine… We're kind of the creative thinkers, thinking outside the box about how we can help in multiple domains of life." While the average person might equate palliative care with end-of-life care, Ragsdale stressed that their role is not the same as hospice, and her team's goal is to help both patients and families deal with all aspects of a serious illness. "Palliative care can get involved at any point in the illness - even at diagnosis, really anywhere along the way where it's impacting their life," she said. "For us, we want to get involved and understand what makes a family feel whole and connected and grounded, and we can do that anytime along the illness. So don't be afraid if you hear palliative care coming in. Say, 'Yes, we want them!' They're the additional team that you would want on your side if you're really facing a lot of scary, serious things." The growth of UK Golisano Children's Opened in 1997, UK Golisano Children's (formerly Kentucky Children's Hospital) began as a single floor of the original UK Albert B. Chandler Hospital. Today, it's grown into a full hospital-within-a-hospital, with more than 200 pediatric physicians, more than 200 beds [AP1]  [LR2] and three specialized intensive care units. A significant part of this growth is recruiting more physicians with the ability to care for complex health problems in children.  "In the past we might've had one subspecialist in this one field; now we are adding multiple layers of subspecialties," Ragsdale said. "So when I say complexity, it's not that we just have pediatric surgery. We have surgeons that are interested in subspecialties of pediatric surgery. We have really been able to meet the needs of the children in Kentucky so they don't have to leave the state." Ragsdale was named chief medical officer for UK Golisano Children's in 2021 [AP3]  [LR4] . Even despite the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, the children's hospital has continued to grow. "In a time in the past five years where some of the regional hospitals have not been able to maintain their pediatric inpatient teams, we have been able to grow and expand," she said. "I give a lot of credit to the leaders of UK HealthCare to seeing the Children's Hospital and being able to allow us to grow and flourish like we have." A 'Woman of Impact' and Project ADAM This year, Ragsdale was nominated to participate in the American Heart Association's Woman of Impact campaign, with the goal of raising awareness of heart disease and funds to support research, care and advocacy through the AHA. Ragsdale's platform for this campaign is personal — her son, Caston, was born with a congenital heart defect and was treated in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at the very place she worked: UK Golisano Children's. "I worked the day that we had him; I did not expect it," she said. "We had a healthy pregnancy and had no signs that anything was going to happen. And he came out and really had trouble breathing right at birth and had pulmonary hypertension… And then we discovered he had a VSD [ventricular septal defect] — a hole in his heart. And all of this happening at once." Being on the other side of the physician-patient relationship gave her a new outlook on what the families of her own patients are going through, she said.  "I definitely feel empathy and a lot of love for families who go through things like this, because it can be traumatic," Ragsdale said. "I have just been really thankful to UK and to the NICU, to the cardiac team. They took amazing care of him. And now he's thriving, he's in school, he's doing great." Ragsdale's son is now nine years old, and the experience has given her an additional awareness of the importance of protecting children with heart issues. That includes the availability of automated external defibrillators, or AEDs. The AHA provides funding for Project ADAM, a national program that provides schools and other organizations with AEDs and specialized training for staff and students to act if someone experiences sudden cardiac arrest.  "Each organization that reaches out and says, 'We want to be Heart Safe,' it's at no cost to them," she said. "So that is really where the funding goes for Project ADAM. It's to pay for the infrastructure and the equipment needed to make sure that these organizations have what they need."  Project ADAM in Kentucky is overseen by a team from UK Golisano Children's, including Shaun Mohan, M.D., Tanya Edwards and Mindy Seeberger. When schools and organizations express interest in joining the program, this team oversees those efforts, including developing a response plan and running hands-only CPR and AED drills. "I think the important thing for families and organizations to think about is to have a plan, and that's really what Project Adam is here for," Ragsdale said. "Really, this is an extension of that cardiac care that we give with surgeries and treatments on the inpatient side. We want to make sure that the community sites are protected as well. I want my son to go to a school that it's heart safe, that has an AED, that has a plan. And I'm sure the same for you. If you have kids in your life or family members that are at risk, you want them to be at a place where if there's a crucial emergency, they have what they need." The AHA "Woman of Impact" campaign begins Friday, Feb. 6 at 9 a.m. ET and ends Thursday, April 9 at 9 p.m. ET. Visit Dr. Ragsdale's donor page on the AHA site to learn more about the campaign and donate.  'Behind the Blue' is available via a variety of podcast providers, including Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify. Subscribe to receive new episodes each week, featuring UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists, writers and the most important news impacting the university. 'Behind the Blue' is a production of the University of Kentucky. Transcripts for most episodes are now embedded in the audio file and can be accessed in many podcast apps during playback. Transcripts for older episodes remain available on the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here. This interview has been edited for time and clarity.

Dr. Edward Cantu, a nationally recognized thoracic surgeon specializing in lung transplantation and pulmonary disease at the UK Gill Heart & Vascular Institute, discusses UK HealthCare's new Lung Service Line, launched as part of our increased efforts to help people living with lung disease.

Whoo BOY! This week's episode is packed with info and stats. How did the US healthcare system get so expensive and complicated? Is it still better than some form of universal care? Throwing a lot of history and stats at you today, and comparing our model to the healthcare models of some other countries to show that there are other ways. Ways far cheaper for the average citizen that work as well as ours. So... why don't we change? Merch and more: www.badmagicproductions.com Timesuck Discord! https://discord.gg/tqzH89vWant to join the Cult of the Curious PrivateFacebook Group? Go directly to Facebook and search for "Cult of the Curious" to locate whatever happens to be our most current page :)For all merch-related questions/problems: store@badmagicproductions.com (copy and paste)Please rate and subscribe on Apple Podcasts and elsewhere and follow the suck on social media!! @timesuckpodcast on IG and http://www.facebook.com/timesuckpodcastWanna become a Space Lizard? Click here: https://www.patreon.com/timesuckpodcast.Sign up through Patreon, and for $5 a month, you get access to the entire Secret Suck catalog (295 episodes) PLUS the entire catalog of Timesuck, AD FREE. You'll also get 20% off of all regular Timesuck merch PLUS access to exclusive Space Lizard merch. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dr. Peter Haigh, a non-invasive cardiologist at the UK Gill Heart & Vascular Institute, discusses heart valve disease as well as UK HealthCare's valve program, a newly structured approach to treating patients.  Learn more about Peter Haigh, MD

A potentially severe flu variant spreading globally has experts recommending that Kentuckians add influenza preparedness to their to-do lists. Dr. Greg talks with Dr. Nicholas Van Sickles, medical director of UK HealthCare's Infection Prevention and Control.

Erica Marnatti, an APRN and Menopause Society Certified Practitioner in UK HealthCare's Women's Health Internal Medicine Clinic, joins the show to discuss the recent lifting of "black box" warnings on hormone replacement therapy.  Learn more about Erica Marnatti, APRN, MSCP

LEXINGTON, Ky. (December 18, 2025) – Across the Commonwealth, the University of Kentucky fulfills its land-grant mission through teaching, research, service and health care — from students discovering their passions, to researchers making breakthroughs, to clinicians providing critical care in communities of every size. But behind the work that most Kentuckians see is a complex network of decisions, partnerships and operational systems that keep the university and UK HealthCare running every day.  This week, we're launching a new recurring feature on "Behind the Blue" called The Business of UK, designed to take listeners inside that part of the institution. The Business of UK will break down major business questions and explore the principles and processes that guide UK's financial and operational decisions.  Leading this new feature is UK Executive Vice President for Finance and Administration and Co-Executive Vice President  for Health Affairs, Dr. Eric Monday. From large-scale partnerships to everyday budget decisions, Monday will spotlight topics and welcome guests to help listeners better understand the frameworks behind the university's most significant business relationships and strategic choices.  Future installments of The Business of UK will explore the university's relationship with JMI Sports, the development of BBNIL (UK Athletics' Name, Image & Likeness strategy), and other topics including budget structure, tuition setting, capital projects and more.  Listeners are invited to participate in shaping the series by submitting questions and topic suggestions via email to businessofUK@uky.edu.   "Behind the Blue" is available via a variety of podcast providers, including Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify. Subscribe to receive new episodes each week, featuring UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists, writers and the most important news impacting the university.  "Behind the Blue" is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of "Behind the Blue" can be downloaded from the show's blog page.   To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here. 

LEXINGTON, Ky. (December 18, 2025) – Strategic partnerships play a critical role in supporting the University of Kentucky's mission, particularly in athletics, where revenue generation, fan engagement and long-term planning are increasingly complex. These complexities are well understood by Paul Archey, president of JMI Sports, the multimedia rights partner for UK Athletics and the university.  On this week's episode of "Behind the Blue," Archey joins UK Executive Vice President for Finance and Administration and Co-Executive Vice President for Health Affairs, Dr. Eric Monday, on another installment of The Business of UK, a recurring feature designed to give listeners a look inside the principles and processes that guide UK's financial and operational decisions.  Originally from Greenup, Ky, Archey speaks on how the partnership was formed, why it has continued to evolve, and how its structure supports both UK Athletics and the university as a whole. The conversation also highlights the deep Kentucky roots that underpin the relationship, including the legacy of Jim Host, founder of Host Communications and longtime UK partners who helped shape the modern multimedia rights landscape for college athletics.  Listeners are encouraged to submit questions and suggestions for future installments of The Business of UK by emailing businessofUK@uky.edu. Upcoming episodes will further explore the changing landscape of college athletics, including a conversation with Archey and UK Athletics Director Mitch Barnhart about the development of BBNIL (UK Athletics' Name, Image & Likeness strategy), and other topics including budget structure, tuition setting, capital projects and more.  "Behind the Blue" is available via a variety of podcast providers, including Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify. Subscribe to receive new episodes each week, featuring UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists, writers and the most important news impacting the university.  "Behind the Blue" is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of "Behind the Blue" can be downloaded from the show's blog page.   To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here. 

LEXINGTON, Ky. (December 11, 2025) – There's a first time for everything — and on Friday, 71-year-old University of Kentucky College of Education graduate Ellen London will experience a significant first: attending a graduation ceremony to accept a diploma. Ellen, who just earned her second master's degree, didn't attend the commencement ceremonies for her bachelor's or first master's degrees at other universities. She didn't even attend her own high school graduation, saying she was "too shy" to be in the spotlight. As she dons a cap and gown for the first time and readies herself to cross the stage at Rupp Arena, she'll be cheered on by friends and family, including two family members who are also part of the UK community: her daughter, Tessa London-Bounds, M.D., a cardiothoracic surgeon with the UK Gill Heart Institute, and her 10-year-old grandson, Harry, a cello player in the College of Fine Arts' UK String Project. In this episode of "Behind the Blue," this trio joins us to talk about their nomadic upbringing, love of learning, and how the University of Kentucky has been able to provide each one of them with a vastly different educational experience.  "Behind the Blue" is available via a variety of podcast providers, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Subscribe to receive new episodes each week, featuring UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists, writers and the most important news impacting the university. "Behind the Blue" is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of "Behind the Blue" can be downloaded from the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (December 5, 2025) – Kentucky has one of the nation's highest burdens of chronic lung disease, a challenge intensified by smoking prevalence, occupational exposures and limited access to specialized care in rural communities. As UK HealthCare looks to expand its services for those with advanced lung conditions, a new leader is helping to guide that effort. Dr. Edward Cantu recently joined the University of Kentucky as director of the UK HealthCare Lung Transplantation Program and the thoracic surgery division. A surgeon whose path has taken him from Columbia University to Duke University and the University of Pennsylvania, Cantu says his goal is clear: increase access, improve outcomes and build a patient-centered system of care for lung disease across the Commonwealth.  On this episode of "Behind the Blue," Dr. Cantu discusses the importance of advanced lung care in Kentucky, the role of early detection in conditions like solitary pulmonary nodules and the lifesaving possibilities provided by lung transplantation. He explains how surgical techniques, donor evaluation and anti-rejection medications have advanced over the past two decades — progress that has improved survival while opening the door to more patients who might benefit from transplant. Cantu also speaks candidly about Kentucky and Appalachia's significant health disparities. Many patients, he notes, face barriers not only in treatment but in screening, diagnosis and follow-up care. Expanding the lung transplant program means developing stronger networks with regional hospitals, improving access to diagnostic resources and ensuring patients can receive as much care as possible close to home. As the program grows, Cantu envisions UK HealthCare becoming a regional leader in lung care — a center known for high-quality transplant outcomes, early cancer detection pathways and coordinated partnerships that reach patients where they are. Ultimately, his vision is simple: better living and better breathing for every person with lung disease in Kentucky. "Behind the Blue" is available via a variety of podcast providers, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Subscribe to receive new episodes each week, featuring UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists, writers and the most important news impacting the university. "Behind the Blue" is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of "Behind the Blue" can be downloaded from the show's blog page.   To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (November 21, 2025) – As the cost of higher education continues to challenge students and families nationwide, the University of Kentucky is taking a different approach — one that goes beyond tuition and scholarships to equip students with long-term financial confidence. Since 2022, UK Invests has helped students earn up to $500 each year by participating in activities tied to wellness, engagement, employability skills and financial literacy, with funds deposited directly into individual Fidelity investment accounts. For Paul McKinney, UK's Associate Vice President for Student Financial Stability, the program represents the next step in the institution's commitment to supporting students both inside and outside the classroom. A veteran of more than 30 years in higher-education finance, McKinney joined UK after seeing the potential of UK Invests to not only educate students about budgeting and long-term investing, but to meaningfully shape their financial futures. Since its launch, the university has disbursed over $2.2 million to participating students, who show higher GPAs and retention rates compared to their peers. On this episode of "Behind the Blue," McKinney discusses the origins of UK Invests, the partnership with Fidelity and iGrad, and the program's unique focus on practical financial education — from understanding risk tolerance and compound growth to navigating AI-powered budgeting and investment tools. He also shares how UK Invests is influencing student behavior across campus, the lessons learned from its early rollout, and the program's potential to position a generation of graduates to make informed financial decisions that strengthen both their personal futures and the economy of the Commonwealth. "Behind the Blue" is available via a variety of podcast providers, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Subscribe to receive new episodes each week, featuring UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists, writers and the most important news impacting the university. "Behind the Blue" is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of "Behind the Blue" can be downloaded from the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

The UK Markey Cancer Center's upcoming Lung Cancer Forum scheduled for Dec. 11. Dr. Weisi Yan joined us to chat about it.  Learn more about Weisi Yan, MD, PhD  

LEXINGTON, Ky. (November 14, 2025) – THIS IS AN ENCORE EPISODE. When we think about children's health, we often picture checkups, vaccinations, and the day-to-day care families receive from their pediatricians. But in Kentucky, the conversation goes much deeper. From rural access to care, to systemic poverty, to the lingering effects of the opioid epidemic, children across the Commonwealth face challenges that begin long before they step into a doctor's office. At the same time, what was known as Kentucky Children's Hospital — now newly renamed Golisano Children's at UK, following a historic $50 million gift from philanthropist Tom Golisano — and the University of Kentucky are stepping up with bold strategies aimed not just at treating illness, but at building healthier communities from the ground up. The record-breaking gift, the largest in UK's history, will expand programs, research and statewide partnerships that ensure every child in Kentucky has access to world-class care close to home. In this encore episode of "Behind the Blue", we revisit our June conversation with Dr. Scottie Day, Physician-in-Chief of Golisano Children's at UK, and Dr. Bethany Hodge, Vice Chair for Population Health and Strategy in the Department of Pediatrics. They discuss the evolving needs of Kentucky's youngest patients, the original launch of the KCH Affiliate Network, and how a commitment to upstream care and community collaboration continues to shape the future of children's health across the Commonwealth.  Stay tuned after the interview for an update on the Golisano announcement and what it means for the future of pediatric care at UK HealthCare. 'Behind the Blue' is available via a variety of podcast providers, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Subscribe to receive new episodes each week, featuring UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists, writers and the most important news impacting the university. Behind the Blue is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of Behind the Blue can be downloaded from the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (November 7, 2025) – Suicide remains one of the leading causes of death among young people in Kentucky, but University of Kentucky faculty and students are working to change that through a simple, yet powerful idea: communication saves lives. Sarah Geegan, assistant professor in the Department of Integrated Strategic Communication, and C.C. Rhein, a junior ISC major and Gaines Fellow, are leading outreach and education efforts promoting QPR — Question, Persuade, Refer — a national training program that teaches anyone how to recognize warning signs, ask difficult questions, and connect people in crisis to help.  Through a partnership with UK HealthCare, the QPR training is now available free of charge to all Kentuckians at UKHealthCare.com/QPR. The 30-minute online session provides practical tools that can prepare anyone to offer hope and immediate support to someone in need. On this episode of "Behind the Blue", Geegan and Rhein discuss how QPR works, why breaking stigma around mental health is essential, and how compassion and awareness can create a ripple effect of hope. Geegan reflects on her own experiences and research in suicide prevention communication, while Rhein shares how she has used her QPR training to help peers in real-life situations. Together, they highlight how every Kentuckian — student, staff, or neighbor — can be part of a lifesaving safety net. "Behind the Blue" is available via a variety of podcast providers, including iTunes and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of "Behind the Blue" each week. UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university. "Behind the Blue" is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for most episodes are now embedded in the audio file and can be accessed in many podcast apps during playback. Transcripts for older episodes remain available on the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

We have known for decades that smoking tobacco is bad for your health. Quitting smoking is probably the single best change a person can make not only for prevention of heart disease, but for their overall health. So why don't more people do it? Dr. Greg seeks answers from Peter Haigh, M.D., a noninvasive cardiologist at UK HealthCare's Gill Heart & Vascular Institute.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (October 30, 2025) – Kentucky continues to face one of the highest rates of lung cancer in the nation, but new advances at UK HealthCare are helping doctors shorten the time from diagnosis to life-saving treatment. Through the use of cutting-edge robotic systems, UK surgeons can now perform same-day biopsy and surgery for certain early-stage lung cancers — turning what was once weeks of waiting and anxiety into a single, coordinated procedure. Dr. Shari Meyerson, professor of surgery and division chief of thoracic surgery, and Dr. Mansi Shah, assistant professor in the Division of Thoracic Surgery, are leading this effort at the University of Kentucky. Their team is also the first in Kentucky — and among the first in the region — to perform thoracic procedures using the new single-port da Vinci robotic system, which allows complex operations through one small incision, helping patients recover faster and with less pain.  On this episode of 'Behind the Blue,' Drs. Meyerson and Shah explain how robotic technology is transforming lung-cancer care in Kentucky. They discuss the impact of same-day diagnosis and treatment, the benefits of single-port surgery for quicker recovery and reduced narcotic use, and the importance of encouraging more Kentuckians to take part in routine lung-cancer screening.  "Behind the Blue" is available via a variety of podcast providers, including iTunes and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of "Behind the Blue" each week. UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university.  "Behind the Blue" is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for most episodes are now embedded in the audio file and can be accessed in many podcast apps during playback. Transcripts for older episodes remain available on the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

In this episode we're joined by Alex Jacobs, CEO of the British Acupuncture Council and a practising acupuncturist. Tune in to learn why these are exciting times for Acupuncture in the UK as it looks to play an increasingly prominent role in delivering efficacious and cost-effective primary care. Alex shares the story behind professional regulation, highlights the enhanced patient safety benefits of proper training, and describes how closer collaboration with the NHS is helping more people benefit safely from this long-respected form of medicine. Resources: Altea Insurance https://www.alteainsurance.com/ Follow us on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/altea-insurance/   *Disclaimer: The information contained in this podcast is not intended to represent a complete analysis of the topics presented and is provided for information purposes only. The views expressed are personal to Alex Jacobs and Will Marshall and do not necessarily represent the views of the British Acupuncture Council or Altea. The content of this podcast is not intended as legal or specific risk or insurance advice and no responsibility can be accepted for any reliance placed upon it. Independent legal, risk or insurance advice should always be obtained before applying any information to particular circumstances.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (October 23, 2025) – The University of Kentucky Alumni Association started the Great Teacher Award program in 1961 to honor excellent teaching at the university. There have been more than 300 teachers honored since that first year. Nominations may only be submitted by current students. To receive the award, a candidate must: Hold the rank of full-time lecturer or above and have been a member of the faculty for the past three years at UK. Have superior knowledge of the subject matter. Have original and innovative classroom presentations. Demonstrate concern for students, both inside and outside the classroom setting. Not have been a recipient of the award for the past 10 years. A committee of the UK Alumni Association Board of Directors and a representative from the student organization Omicron Delta Kappa select the recipients based on objective rating and ranking of the eligible nominations submitted. This episode of Behind the Blue spotlights one of the six Great Teacher Award winners for 2025: Isabel Escobar, the Paul W. Chellgren Endowed Chair and a professor of chemical and materials engineering in the Stanley and Karen Pigman College of Engineering. Escobar has more than 20 years of experience in water treatment using membrane separations and she has taught an array of chemical and environmental engineering courses. Her research focuses on developing and/or improving polymeric membrane materials for water treatment and water reuse operations and fabricating and scaling tailor-made green membranes for difficult separations. She was part of an innovative research collaboration that created a 3-D printed membrane-filtered face mask that could inactivate the coronavirus. ‘Behind the Blue' is available via a variety of podcast providers, including iTunes and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of “Behind the Blue” each week. UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university.  Behind the Blue is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for this or other episodes of Behind the Blue can be downloaded from the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.  

LEXINGTON, Ky. (October 17, 2025) – Every fall, the University of Kentucky's Family Weekend offers a chance for students, parents, and alumni to come together and celebrate what makes the Wildcat experience unique. It's a time to reconnect, share stories, and reflect on the people who help students find their place — and their purpose — at UK. For this special edition of Behind the Blue, two College of Public Health students share how family and community have shaped their journeys.  Isabella Frost, a pre-dental sophomore from Knox County, discusses her goal of returning home to serve her rural community after dental school — a dream inspired by her father Jeff, a longtime educator and high school principal.  Ava Schatz, a Bachelor of Public Health student on UK's accelerated master's track, reflects on what she's learned from her parents, both UK alumni, including her father David, an archaeologist who studies how people and communities evolve over time. On this episode of “Behind the Blue,” the Frost and Schatz families talk about the power of encouragement, the lasting bond between parents and students, and how the values of service and discovery continue to connect generations of Wildcats across Kentucky. “Behind the Blue” is available via a variety of podcast providers, including iTunes and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of “Behind the Blue” each week. UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university. “Behind the Blue” is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for most episodes are now embedded in the audio file and can be accessed in many podcast apps during playback. Transcripts for older episodes remain available on the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

In this episode, Johnny sits down with Chris Bleakley of Spire Healthcare and Emma Neary of Priory to explore the complex realities of recruiting in the UK healthcare sector. From staffing shortages and immigration trends to employer branding and RPO partnerships, they share lessons in balancing patient care with workforce stability. A must-listen for anyone facing high-volume, high-impact hiring challenges.

In this episode, Craig Collins, Senior Vice President and CFO of UK HealthCare and CEO of Beyond Blue, shares insights into major technology investments, growth initiatives, and strategic priorities driving the system's mission to serve the Commonwealth of Kentucky. He discusses efficiency, innovation, and building a connected, patient-centered health network.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (October 10, 2025) – Over his nearly 32 years with UKPD, University of Kentucky Police Department Chief Joe Monroe has watched the department evolve from a small campus police force into one of the largest law enforcement agencies in Kentucky — serving what he calls a “city within a city.”   Today, his team's mission extends far beyond patrols and parking enforcement, encompassing everything from crisis management and emergency planning to healthcare security and cutting-edge technology like drones and a network of more than 5,000 cameras across campus. On this episode of "Behind the Blue," Chief Monroe talks about the department's growth and modernization, the philosophy of safety as a shared community responsibility, and the partnerships and technologies that help protect and prepare the university every day. “Behind the Blue” is available via a variety of podcast providers, including iTunes and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of “Behind the Blue” each week. UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university. “Behind the Blue” is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for most episodes are now embedded in the audio file and can be accessed in many podcast apps during playback. Transcripts for older episodes remain available on the show's blog page.   To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

A fall can happen to anyone, at any age, place or time. For adults age 65 and older, falling can be frightening and a serious health matter — not only for the physical repercussions of falling, but the emotional trauma which often occurs afterwards. Dr. Greg talks with Amie Peel, a registered nurse and UK Trauma's outreach and education coordinator, about a new Falls Prevention collaboration with the Lexington Senior Center.

Renee Shaw leads a discussion on vaccines and medications. Guests: Coy Flowers, M.D., obstetrician-gynecologist practicing at UK Healthcare; Molly Rutherford, M.D., primary care physician at Bluegrass Family Wellness in Crestwood, Ky.; Michael K. Kuduk, M.D., pediatrician at Kentucky Children's Hospital, UK Healthcare; and Kimberly Biss, M.D., obstetrician-gynecologist in Saint Petersburg, Fla.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (October 3, 2025) – When University of Kentucky alum Brian Cury, founder of EarthCam, placed the company's first webcam above Times Square for the 1996 New Year's Eve celebration, he thought it was a fad that soon would pass. Today, though, webcams are part of the culture. We watch eagles in their nests, bears in the wilderness, buildings under construction and scenes from cities around the world. This type of innocent voyeurism has “great appeal,” Cury said. Cury's EarthCam, founded in 1996 and headquartered in Upper Saddle River, New Jersey, has cameras all over the planet, including looking down from the torch of the Statue of Liberty, outside Chicago's Wrigley Field and the crosswalk made famous by the Beatles on northwest London's Abbey Road.  “A lot of people actually have used our cameras as a destination,” Cury said. “They've traveled to London and made sure they walked in front of the (Abbey Road) camera and got a video clip of themselves. “Paul McCartney actually did it. He got in front of one of our cameras and waved.” Cury was one of 20 UK graduates inducted into the university's Hall of Distinguished Alumni in September. On this episode of “Behind the Blue,” Cury discusses EarthCam's beginnings, changes in technology that have helped and challenged the company's mission and how EarthCam has expanded its business offerings into areas like ensuring safety on building construction sites.  “Behind the Blue” is available via a variety of podcast providers, including iTunes and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of “Behind the Blue” each week. UK's latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university. “Behind the Blue” is a joint production of the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare. Transcripts for most episodes are now embedded in the audio file and can be accessed in many podcast apps during playback. Transcripts for older episodes remain available on the show's blog page.  To discover how the University of Kentucky is advancing our Commonwealth, click here.

Dr. Neil Toupin, a child neurologist at UK HealthCare, shares valuable information about Duchenne muscular dystrophy for referring providers.

Dr. Neil Toupin, a child neurologist at UK HealthCare, shares insight for patients and community members about Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a rare disease, and how treatment is evolving.  Learn more about David Toupin, MD 

Dr. Fahim Hussain GP and director at Northern Health, joins to discuss why his private healthcare company now holds Bitcoin as a reserve asset. The conversation explores how financial realities, broken incentives, and outdated systems are shaping UK healthcare, and why forward-thinking businesses are rethinking their strategy.They dive into the impact of inflation, the connection between money and health outcomes, and the challenges of bringing innovation into a conservative sector. Available now on YouTube and all podcast platforms.00:00 - Introduction to Fahim and His Background 03:21 - Pandemic Preparedness and Global Health Insights 06:30 - The Shift to Virtual Healthcare 09:38 - Northern Health: Business Model and Bitcoin Strategy 12:32 - Bitcoin as a Balance Sheet Asset 15:30 - Challenges and Opportunities in Healthcare 18:27 - Industry Reactions to Bitcoin Adoption 21:25 - The Importance of Financial Foundations in Business 24:29 - Future of Bitcoin in Healthcare 34:19 - The Burden of Rising Council Taxes 35:33 - Healthcare Crisis: The Alarming Rise of Chronic Diseases 40:17 - First Principles in Healthcare: Rethinking Patient Care 47:03 - The Intersection of Money and Health 47:51 - Harnessing AI in Healthcare: The My Doctor App 57:30 - The Future of Technology: AI and Human Interaction 01:01:00 - The Evolution of Travel: From Planes to Rockets Follow Dr. Fahim Hussain:

Title: "The Gift of Life: A Conversation with Dr. Alex Ancheta, Transplant Surgeon"  

Dr. Tanesha Johnson, who specializes in adolescent medicine, pediatric palliative care and pediatric psychology at UK HealthCare, discusses chronic pain in children, how it's diagnosed and how patients and families can navigate care options.

This episode recorded live at the Becker's Hospital Review 15th Annual Meeting features Jay Grider, Chief Quality Officer and Chief Executive Officer, Kentucky Medical Services Foundation, University of Kentucky. Dr. Grider discusses proactive workforce planning, statewide collaboration to address nursing shortages, and how UK HealthCare is applying high-reliability principles to transform HR operations for better recruitment and retention outcomes.

Dr. Rachel Jonas is an otolaryngologist at UK HealthCare. She joins us to discuss voice, airway and swallowing conditions treated at UK HealthCare's Ear, Nose & Throat Clinic.

Want To Learn How To Grow Your Territory?? If so → https://www.newtomedicaldevicesales.com/podcastShe broke into medical device sales, moved across the world, and now she's navigating the UK healthcare system. Rachel Littleton shares what it's like selling medical devices in London as an American, the steep learning curves she faced, and what no one tells you about the first year in the industry. This is for the person curious about what it takes to leap into a new career and a new country.Key Takeaways:Network with intention by reaching out to actual reps and hiring managers on LinkedIn, not just clicking apply.Expect to feel overwhelmed in your first year. It's normal, and pushing through it is part of the process.Treat every person in the clinic like they matter, because they do. Secretaries and MAs can be your biggest allies.Focus on helping patients first; the money will follow when your purpose is in the right place.If you ever get a chance to work abroad, go for it. You'll grow professionally and personally in ways you can't imagine.00:00 - Start02:24 - Who Is Rachel Littleton?08:14 - Biggest Stressors In First 6 Months As A Rep10:03 - Moving To The UK17:24 - UK Healthcare vs US Healthcare21:28 - How Different Is The Medical Sales Field In The UK vs US26:33 - Being Passionate In What You Do28:41 - Rachel's Advice For Those Interested In Medical Device Sales30:12 - Rachel's Advice To New Reps

Want To Learn How To Grow Your Territory?? If so → https://www.newtomedicaldevicesales.com/podcastShe broke into medical device sales, moved across the world, and now she's navigating the UK healthcare system. Rachel Littleton shares what it's like selling medical devices in London as an American, the steep learning curves she faced, and what no one tells you about the first year in the industry. This is for the person curious about what it takes to leap into a new career and a new country.Key Takeaways:Network with intention by reaching out to actual reps and hiring managers on LinkedIn, not just clicking apply.Expect to feel overwhelmed in your first year. It's normal, and pushing through it is part of the process.Treat every person in the clinic like they matter, because they do. Secretaries and MAs can be your biggest allies.Focus on helping patients first; the money will follow when your purpose is in the right place.If you ever get a chance to work abroad, go for it. You'll grow professionally and personally in ways you can't imagine.00:00 - Start02:26 - Who Is Rachel Littleton?08:16 - Biggest Stressors In First 6 Months As A Rep10:05 - Moving To The UK17:26 - UK Healthcare vs US Healthcare21:30 - How Different Is The Medical Sales Field In The UK vs US26:35 - Being Passionate In What You Do28:43 - Rachel's Advice For Those Interested In Medical Device Sales30:14 - Rachel's Advice To New Reps

Listen as host Sebastian Calmes, wellness specialist with UK HR Health and Wellness and Jason Chadwell, senior organizational development specialist with UK Healthcare discuss Occupational Well-being. Jason shares his expert insights on what defines occupational wellbeing, its core elements, and the profound impact of factors like workplace safety and a sense of belonging. We will also explore how to identify when your work might be negatively affecting your well-being the power of a growth mindset and transforming your work experience and why psychological safety is a crucial driver for organizational performance and innovation.

In this episode, Madeline Ashley speaks with Craig Collins, Senior Vice President and CFO of UK HealthCare, about the system's rapid expansion, major technology investments, and strategies for financial sustainability. Collins shares insights on Project Blue Connect, UK HealthCare's statewide impact, and how the organization is shaping the future of patient care in Kentucky.