Heart Health Series | Part 2: Understanding Chest Pain

Chest pain is one of the most common and most confusing symptoms patients experience. In Part 2 of the Heart Health Series, Dr. Michelle Plaster and Nurse Practitioner Amber Foster are once again joined by cardiologist Dr. Marcus Sims to answer one critical question: How do you know when chest pain is a heart attack and when it’s something else?

This episode walks listeners through the real-world decision-making process doctors use when evaluating chest pain. Dr. Sims explains the different types of chest discomfort, how risk factors like diabetes, family history, and lifestyle influence concern, and why women often experience symptoms differently than men.

You’ll learn:

• What chest pain related to the heart typically feels like—and what it doesn’t
• Why symptoms in women are often missed or dismissed
• When chest pain requires emergency care versus further outpatient testing
• How stress tests, cardiac CT scans, and other diagnostics are used
• Why early evaluation can prevent major cardiac events

With relatable patient stories and clear explanations, this episode empowers listeners to trust their instincts, understand their risk, and know when to seek care—without panic or guesswork.

This is Part 2 of a 3-part Heart Health Series. In the final episode, Dr. Sims will help listeners understand what happens after a diagnosis and how heart disease is treated long-term.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States—but much of it is preventable. In this first episode of a three-part heart health series, Dr. Michelle Plaster and Nurse Practitioner Amber Foster are joined by cardiologist Dr. Marcus Sims for an in-depth, practical conversation on coronary artery disease, heart attacks, and prevention.

This episode focuses on what everyday people can do to protect their heart long before symptoms appear. Dr. Sims breaks down evidence-based screening tools like cholesterol testing and cardiac calcium scoring, explaining who should be screened, when to start, and how to interpret the results. The discussion also explores the role of genetics, lifestyle choices, and risk factors such as diabetes and family history.

Listeners will gain clarity on:

• How diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes directly impact heart health
• What cholesterol numbers actually matter—and why LDL is the primary focus
• When medications like statins are beneficial, and how they fit alongside lifestyle medicine
• Why women’s heart health is often overlooked—and how to recognize subtle warning signs
• How preventive care today can help avoid invasive procedures later

With real-world stories, clear explanations, and a balanced approach that blends natural lifestyle strategies with modern medical care, this episode empowers listeners to take ownership of their heart health.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fatigue is one of the most common — and most frustrating — reasons people seek medical care. In this episode of Between Two White Coats, Dr. Michelle Plaster and Nurse Practitioner Amber Foster take a deep dive into what it really means when you’re “always tired.”

They break down the important difference between sleepiness and true fatigue, and walk through the many possible causes — from poor sleep, stress, nutrition, blood sugar issues, vitamin and iron deficiencies, thyroid and hormone imbalances, medications, and mental health concerns, to more serious conditions that should never be ignored.

With a practical, patient-centered approach, this episode helps listeners understand when fatigue may be lifestyle-related, when it’s a signal to dig deeper, and why feeling exhausted all the time is not something you should accept as normal.

If you’ve been feeling run down, burned out, or low on energy, this conversation offers clarity, reassurance, and guidance on next steps toward better health!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The holidays can be magical… and overwhelming. In this episode of Between Two White Coats, Dr. Michelle Plaster and Nurse Practitioner Amber Foster unpack practical, meaningful ways to stay well—mind, body, and soul—throughout the holiday season.

From the pressure of busy schedules to financial strain, emotional highs and lows, and endless festive obligations, the holidays can take a toll on your overall health. Dr. Plaster and Amber break down simple, realistic strategies to help you slow down, stay grounded, and protect your wellbeing in the midst of the holiday chaos.

You’ll learn how to:

✨ Create a “calm and cozy” holiday by reducing the frantic pace, embracing simplicity, and being intentional with your time.

✨ Set healthy boundaries—because every “yes” is a “no” to something else.

✨ Use digital detox moments to reconnect with your family (and yourself!).

✨ Build meaningful traditions through festive activities, family time, and shared experiences.

✨ Choose experiences over stuff and rethink gift-giving in a healthier, more memorable way.

✨ Stay financially well and avoid the January “spending hangover.”

✨ Support your physical health with balanced eating, movement, and seasonal activities.

✨ Practice gratitude to reshape your mindset and lift your emotional health.

✨ Serve others through volunteering—giving your time, not just your money.

The holidays don’t have to control you. With a little intentionality, you can shape the season into one that restores you, strengthens your relationships, and supports complete wellness.

Stay grateful, stay grounded, and take care of yourself this holiday season.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today’s episode of Between Two White Coats, we sit down with certified nutritionist and health coach Jenny Fisher to talk about NEAT — Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis — and why it might be the most overlooked key to better health.

If you think staying healthy requires long workouts or hours at the gym, this conversation will be a breath of fresh air. NEAT is all about the small, everyday movements that add up: taking the stairs, standing instead of sitting, folding laundry while standing, stretching during your kid’s practice, walking during phone calls — and so much more.

Jenny breaks down:

• What NEAT actually is
• Why daily movement matters more than you think
• How perimenopause and aging affect our natural activity levels
• Real-life examples of how your normal day can burn more calories
• Ways to reduce sedentary habits without adding “one more thing” to your plate
• How parents and kids alike can build healthier routines

You’ll walk away with practical, doable ways to increase movement, boost metabolism, and improve strength — all without stepping foot in a gym.

✨ Hashtag challenge: #IllTakeTheStairs

Join us in choosing the stairs and creating more opportunities to move throughout the day!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr. Michelle Plaster and Nurse Practitioner Amber Foster are back with health coach and influencer Jenny Fisher for Episode 3 in our four-part wellness series — and this one will get you moving!

In this powerful conversation, Jenny breaks down the role of fitness in reaching your health goals and shows how movement is medicine for your mind, body, and longevity. From overcoming gym intimidation to building strength that lasts a lifetime, this episode will help you rethink what it means to move with purpose.

💪 Key Takeaways:

• Start where you are. You don’t need a gym membership — walking, dancing, or joining a fun class can kickstart your journey.

• Strength training = longevity. Building skeletal muscle boosts metabolism, hormone balance, and protects against bone loss.

• You won’t “get bulky.” Muscle supports fat loss, better blood sugar control, and overall vitality.

• Progressive overload works. Lifting heavy (safely) builds lean muscle and revs your metabolism long after your workout.

• Movement heals. Daily walks improve heart health, lower stress, and even help prevent dementia.

• Accountability matters. A coach, friend, or app can help you stay consistent and confident.

• Jenny’s approach to fitness isn’t about perfection — it’s about showing up, staying consistent, and celebrating the small wins that create lasting change.

🏋️‍♀️ Whether you’re just starting your journey or looking to reignite your workout routine, this episode will leave you inspired to build strength for life — not just for looks.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr. Michelle Plaster and Nurse Practitioner Amber Foster are back with health coach and influencer Jenny Fisher for Episode 2 of our four-part series on building a healthier life — one step at a time.

This week, it’s all about fuel — learning how to nourish your body with the right foods, without the guilt, confusion, or crash diets. Jenny breaks down practical nutrition strategies that anyone can do, from understanding macros to mastering the art of balance and indulgence.

💡 In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why food is more than calories — it’s fuel and medicine for your body.

• How to calculate simple calorie and protein goals using Jenny’s easy formulas.

• The power of protein for energy, muscle, and metabolism (and why 100g a day can change everything).

• How to build plates that include fiber, whole foods, and smart indulgences — no deprivation required.

• How to reduce added sugar without losing joy in eating.

• Why small, consistent steps (and Jenny’s “Two-in-a-Row Rule”) lead to lasting success.

Jenny reminds us that eating well doesn’t have to be overwhelming — it’s about making mindful choices, honoring your body, and enjoying the process.

🥗 Whether you’re learning to track macros, eat cleaner, or simply drink more water, this episode will leave you feeling inspired and equipped to fuel your best life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Dr. Michelle Plaster and Nurse Practitioner Amber Foster sit down with certified health coach and influencer Jenny Fisher for the first of a four-part health-coaching series that will help you build a stronger foundation for lifelong wellness.

Jenny shares her journey from “accidental influencer” to metabolic health expert — and breaks down how simple, sustainable lifestyle habits can transform your health. Together, they discuss why sleep is the real superpower, how to reset your circadian rhythm with morning sunlight, and how small daily movements and stress-management practices can improve energy, metabolism, and longevity.

💡 Key takeaways:

• Sleep isn’t optional — it’s the cornerstone of hormonal balance, brain health, and energy.
• Morning sunlight and consistent routines help reset your body’s natural rhythms.
• Simple movement — even ten squats an hour — can offset a sedentary job.
• Managing stress doesn’t have to be complicated: start with 3-minute meditations, grace for yourself, and realistic goals.
• Follow Jenny’s “Two-in-a-Row Rule”: never skip a healthy habit twice.

Whether you’re just starting your wellness journey or looking to refine your daily rhythm, this conversation is a reminder that small, consistent changes create lasting transformation.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Back-to-school season isn’t just for students—it’s the perfect time for all of us to hit the reset button. In this episode of Between Two White Coats, Dr. Michelle Plaster and Nurse Practitioner Amber Foster share practical, inspiring ways to treat the fall season as a “second New Year.”

They cover:

🍎 How a shift in routines can create healthier habits for mind, body, and soul

🗓 Why schedules and structure actually reduce stress and improve wellness

🧘 Simple ways to reset with nutrition, exercise, and mental health practices

🧹 The surprising health benefits of decluttering your home and environment

🌱 Why sustainable “small resets” work better than big resolutions

Whether you’re a busy parent, student, or just looking for a fresh start, this episode will give you the tools to step into fall with clarity, energy, and purpose.

🎧 Listen now and start your reset today!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.