In this episode of The HEALS Pod, I had the pleasure of welcoming two remarkable guests, Karen Booker and Annie Cooper, who are the newly appointed co-presidents of the Clark County Medical Society Alliance (CCMSA). We kicked off the conversation by discussing their backgrounds and what brought them to Las Vegas. Annie shared her journey from New York State, where she worked as a cardiac ICU nurse, to moving to Las Vegas with her husband. Initially hesitant about the move, she eventually embraced the city after visiting friends and exploring the community. Karen, on the other hand, hails from Tucson, Arizona, and has a rich history of moving due to her father's military career. After a long career in the entertainment industry in Los Angeles, she and her husband settled in Las Vegas, where they have been happily living for the past seven years.

As we delved deeper into their experiences, we discussed the unique lifestyle challenges faced by spouses of physicians. Both Karen and Annie shared personal anecdotes about the sacrifices that come with being married to someone in the medical field, including the unpredictability of schedules and the emotional toll it can take on families. They emphasized the importance of camaraderie and support within the CCMSA community, which provides a space for spouses to connect and share their experiences.

We also explored the upcoming initiatives and events that CCMSA has planned for the year. Karen and Annie highlighted their commitment to maintaining a vibrant calendar of events, including monthly luncheons and the Healthcare Scholarship Project, which raises funds for local medical schools. They expressed their excitement about this year's charity of choice, the Children's Heart Foundation, which supports children with congenital heart diseases and their families. Annie shared her personal connection to this cause, recounting her own experiences as a parent navigating the challenges of her child's health.

Throughout the episode, we discussed the significance of building a supportive network for families in the medical community, especially in a transient city like Las Vegas. I encouraged listeners to get involved with CCMSA by attending their luncheons, which are open to everyone, not just physician spouses. The luncheons provide a relaxed atmosphere for networking, fundraising, and fostering friendships.

As we wrapped up the episode, I expressed my gratitude to Karen and Annie for their dedication to CCMSA and the invaluable work they do for the community. I also invited listeners to mark their calendars for the first luncheon on September 16th at Ocean Prime and to stay tuned for the annual fashion show on April 2nd at Durango. This episode was a heartfelt reminder of the importance of community, support, and the shared experiences that unite us all.

In this episode of the HEALS Pod, we dive deep into the essential topic of leadership, particularly in the context of healthcare and the challenges of burnout. I am thrilled to welcome back Dr. Maia Carter, a passionate advocate for leadership principles, to help us unpack this complex subject.

We begin by defining burnout, a multifaceted issue that affects many in the healthcare field. Dr. Carter outlines its three primary components: emotional and physical exhaustion, depersonalization, and a lack of personal accomplishment. We share personal anecdotes that illustrate these experiences, highlighting how burnout can manifest in various ways, especially in high-stress environments like medicine and hospice care.

As we explore the nuances of burnout, we discuss the importance of self-awareness and emotional regulation. Dr. Carter emphasizes the need for healthcare professionals to recognize their feelings and take proactive steps to address them. We touch on the significance of resilience versus relentlessness, advocating for a shift in mindset that prioritizes well-being over the traditional "grind" mentality.

Throughout the conversation, we reflect on the importance of gratitude and perspective. I share a poignant story about a young patient facing terminal illness who expressed gratitude despite his circumstances, illustrating the profound impact of mindset on our experiences. Dr. Carter and I agree that cultivating a sense of gratitude can be a powerful tool in combating burnout and fostering a healthier work environment.

We also discuss the role of community and social connections in maintaining mental health. Dr. Carter highlights the need for healthcare professionals to build supportive networks, especially during training when many are away from their families. We explore how creating a culture that normalizes mental health discussions can help alleviate the pressures faced by those in the medical field.

As we wrap up the episode, we emphasize the importance of prioritizing self-care, including sleep, exercise, and emotional well-being. We encourage listeners to take a moment to reflect on their own experiences with burnout and to consider how they can implement small changes in their lives to foster resilience and compassion.

In this episode of the HEALS Pod, we delve into the critical topic of men's health in honor of Men's Health Month this June. I had the pleasure of welcoming two esteemed guests, Dr. Brian Le, a specialist in pain management, and Jamil Rizk, who focuses on wellness. Together, we explore the multifaceted challenges men face today, from emotional struggles to the biochemical aspects of health.

We kick off the conversation with Dr. Le sharing his journey into pain management, highlighting how his background as an anesthesiologist led him to focus on interventional pain management. He emphasizes the prevalence of pain in the population, noting that 80 to 90% of people will experience pain at some point in their lives. Dr. Le discusses the evolution of pain management over the last two decades, moving from traditional methods like physical therapy and medication to more innovative approaches, including regenerative medicine and hormone treatments.

As we dive deeper, we address common misconceptions about pain clinics, particularly the stereotype of them being "pill mills." Dr. Le clarifies that his practice focuses on a holistic approach, integrating medication, physical therapy, and psychological support to optimize patient wellness. This leads us to the concept of "pain and wellness," where we discuss how understanding one's body can significantly improve pain management and overall quality of life.

Jamil Rizk joins the conversation to discuss the integration of wellness into pain management. He shares insights from his experience in developing clinics that focus on a comprehensive approach to health. We explore how advancements in technology and testing allow for a more personalized understanding of each patient's needs, moving beyond general reference ranges to tailor treatments that truly benefit individuals.

Throughout the episode, we touch on the importance of lifestyle modifications, including diet and exercise, in managing pain and improving overall health. I share my personal journey of weight loss and fitness, highlighting how my experiences have shaped my understanding of wellness. We discuss the impact of stress on health and the need for balance in our lives, especially in today's fast-paced world.

In this episode of The HEALS Pod, we dive deep into the complexities of the healthcare system with our special guest, Dr. Aida Loudyi, a rheumatologist based in Las Vegas. We explore her journey to the city, which began with her residency training, and discuss the challenges she faced as a foreign medical graduate. Dr. Loudyi candidly shares her initial reluctance to return to Las Vegas due to the medical environment and the legal pressures that often overshadow patient care.

Throughout our conversation, we unpack the realities of practicing medicine in a landscape where defensive medicine is prevalent. Dr. Loudyi highlights the impact of legal concerns on clinical decision-making, illustrating how the fear of litigation can lead to unnecessary tests and procedures. She draws on her personal experiences, including a poignant story about her father's struggle with a rare disease, to emphasize the importance of understanding the provider's perspective in healthcare.

We also delve into the systemic issues that plague the healthcare industry, such as the burdensome administrative tasks that detract from patient care. Dr. Loudyi discusses the financial challenges faced by physicians, including declining reimbursements and the increasing costs of medical education, which contribute to the growing physician shortage. We touch on the generational shifts in career aspirations, noting how younger individuals are drawn to professions that offer a better work-life balance and financial stability.

As we navigate the conversation, we reflect on the ethical dilemmas within the healthcare system, particularly the profit-driven motives that often overshadow patient welfare. Dr. Loudyi and I discuss the need for a more compassionate approach to medicine, one that prioritizes patient care over profit margins.

In the latter part of the episode, we explore the art of rheumatology, where diagnosis often requires a detective-like approach due to the complexity of autoimmune diseases. Dr. Loudyi shares her passion for the field and the satisfaction that comes from unraveling medical mysteries, despite the challenges posed by fragmented care and insurance limitations.

This episode serves as a call to action for listeners to better understand the intricacies of healthcare and the vital role that providers play in navigating these challenges. Join us as we unpack the realities of the healthcare system and advocate for a more compassionate and effective approach to patient care.

In this episode of The HEALS Pod, I had the pleasure of welcoming two distinguished guests from Touro University, Steven Peralta, the Chief Strategy Officer, and Lance Eliason, the Director of Alumni Engagement and Partnerships. Our conversation revolved around the flourishing sports culture in Las Vegas and its impact on the community, particularly in relation to education and healthcare.

We kicked off the episode by discussing my initial skepticism about the arrival of professional sports teams in Las Vegas, particularly the Golden Knights. I shared my journey from being a "negative Nancy" to recognizing the positive transformation these teams have brought to our city. The Golden Knights, in particular, have not only excelled in their sport but have also united the community, especially in the wake of the tragic events of October 1st. Their success has paved the way for other teams, like the Aces, to thrive and contribute to a vibrant sports culture.

Steven, who grew up in Seattle, emphasized the importance of sports in teaching resilience and life skills to young people. He noted that the growth of sports in Las Vegas has created a unique opportunity for youth development and community engagement. Lance, a Las Vegas native, reminisced about the early days of local sports and highlighted how the current winning culture is inspiring the next generation to pursue their dreams.

As we delved deeper, we explored the connection between sports and education, particularly in healthcare. I raised the point that as sports teams grow, so does the need for professionals in various fields, including physical therapy and sports medicine. Steven and Lance discussed how Touro University is actively working to retain students in the community by exposing them to local sports and career opportunities.

We also touched on the importance of mental health and resilience in both sports and healthcare. The conversation highlighted how athletes are increasingly sharing their struggles, helping to destigmatize mental health issues. This openness is crucial for future healthcare professionals who will face similar challenges in their careers.

Towards the end of the episode, we discussed the role of alumni in bridging the gap between current students and the professional world. By bringing back successful graduates to share their experiences, Touro University is fostering a culture of mentorship and inspiration. We also brainstormed ways to connect with younger generations, emphasizing the need to excite them about careers in healthcare and sports.

In this episode of the HEALS Pod, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Abel Garcia, an award-winning journalist and a trusted voice at Channel 13 in Las Vegas. As the CEO of Las Vegas Heels, I wanted to explore the critical intersection of journalism, public trust, and community health, especially in the context of Southern Nevada's healthcare landscape.

We kicked off our conversation by discussing Abel's journey to Las Vegas. Born in Los Angeles and raised in Reno, Abel's passion for storytelling emerged during high school when he participated in a mock newsroom project. This experience ignited his interest in journalism, leading him to pursue a career in news despite initially earning a business management degree at the University of Nevada, Reno. Abel's journey from intern to anchor is a testament to his dedication and love for storytelling.

As we delved deeper into the nuances of journalism, Abel shared insights about the differences between reporting in smaller communities like Reno and larger cities like Las Vegas. He emphasized the importance of networking and building relationships within the community to uncover impactful stories. Abel highlighted how the fast-paced nature of news requires journalists to be adaptable and responsive, especially in a city as dynamic as Las Vegas.

We also discussed the challenges facing the news industry today, particularly the rise of social media and the need for credible journalism in an age of misinformation. Abel expressed the importance of ethical reporting and the responsibility journalists have to verify facts before sharing stories. He shared anecdotes about the complexities of reporting, including instances where he had to navigate conflicting narratives and ensure that the truth was presented fairly.

One of the most enlightening parts of our conversation was Abel's perspective on the evolving role of news organizations. He explained how Channel 13 is actively seeking feedback from community leaders to improve their coverage and better serve the public. This commitment to listening and adapting is crucial in a time when traditional news consumption is declining.

Throughout the episode, Abel's passion for journalism and community engagement shone through. He articulated the need for journalists to connect with their audience on a deeper level, moving beyond sensationalism to provide meaningful stories that resonate with viewers. Our discussion underscored the vital role that journalism plays in shaping public discourse and fostering trust within the community.

In this episode of The HEALS Pod, I had the pleasure of welcoming Mason Van Houweling, the CEO of UMC (University Medical Center) in Las Vegas. Our conversation delved into the intricacies of healthcare, particularly focusing on the evolution of UMC and its pivotal role in the community.

We kicked off the episode by discussing Mason's journey to Las Vegas, which began in 2008 when he moved from Florida to join Universal Health Services. He shared how he never envisioned Las Vegas as a destination but ultimately found it to be a rewarding place for both his professional and personal life. Mason reflected on the challenges he faced upon arriving during the onset of the Great Recession, which significantly impacted the local economy, including healthcare.

As we explored the current state of healthcare in Las Vegas, Mason expressed optimism about the city's potential for growth and transformation. He emphasized the importance of diversifying the local economy beyond its heavy reliance on gaming and hospitality, highlighting the collaborative efforts between healthcare, education, and local government to improve services and infrastructure.

Mason provided insights into his leadership philosophy at UMC, which has undergone significant changes since he took the helm. He discussed the hospital's history, its challenges, and the strides made in improving financial stability, quality of care, and community engagement. One of the key points he made was about the importance of hiring the right people and empowering them to excel in their roles.

We also touched on the ongoing revitalization of the UMC campus, which aims to reflect the high-quality care provided within. Mason shared details about the substantial investments made to enhance the hospital's exterior and create a welcoming environment for patients and families.

The conversation shifted to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on UMC and the healthcare landscape as a whole. Mason recounted how UMC stepped up to lead in testing and vaccination efforts, showcasing the hospital's commitment to the community during a critical time.

Looking ahead, Mason discussed UMC's strategic partnership with the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV, emphasizing the importance of training and retaining medical professionals in Nevada. He highlighted the collaborative efforts to expand residency programs and improve healthcare access in the region.

As we wrapped up the episode, Mason reflected on his growth as a leader and the lessons learned throughout his career. He emphasized the value of communication, mentorship, and the need for continuous improvement in healthcare delivery.

In this episode of The HEALS Pod, I had the pleasure of welcoming two remarkable guests from Athelas, Daniel Stewart, the Head of Partnerships, and Greg Martinez, the VP of Sales and Partnerships. Our conversation revolved around the transformative potential of technology in healthcare, particularly focusing on how Athelas is reshaping the provider experience through innovative tools.

We kicked off the episode by discussing the common frustrations faced by healthcare providers, including the overwhelming administrative burdens that detract from their ability to deliver quality patient care. Both Daniel and Greg, who hold doctorates in physical therapy, shared their personal journeys into healthcare and the pivotal moments that led them to seek solutions to the inefficiencies they encountered in their practices.

Athelas is at the forefront of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into healthcare, and our discussion highlighted how their tools are designed not just to enhance productivity but to empower providers. We explored the concept of remote patient monitoring (RPM) and how Athelas is expanding its offerings to include AI-driven agents that can automate various administrative tasks, thereby allowing healthcare professionals to focus on what they do best—caring for patients.

Throughout the episode, we delved into the skepticism that often accompanies the introduction of new technologies in healthcare. Daniel and Greg emphasized the importance of demonstrating real-world applications of their tools to alleviate concerns and showcase the tangible benefits of AI. They shared insights on how Athelas is working with both large hospital systems and smaller practices, tailoring solutions to meet the unique needs of each.

One of the most compelling aspects of our conversation was the discussion around the future of healthcare and the potential for Athelas to bridge the gap between providers and payers. We examined the challenges posed by the current healthcare landscape, including the consolidation of practices and the increasing administrative burdens that threaten the independence of healthcare providers.

As we wrapped up the episode, I encouraged our listeners to explore Athelas further, highlighting their commitment to improving the healthcare experience for both providers and patients. We provided links to their website and resources for those interested in learning more about how Athelas is revolutionizing healthcare through technology.

In this episode of the Las Vegas HEALS Pod, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Maia Carter, a remarkable leader in the healthcare field. Our conversation delved deep into the essence of leadership, exploring not only Dr. Carter's personal journey but also her insights on developing future leaders within clinical settings.

We kicked off the episode by discussing the definition of leadership. Dr. Carter emphasized that true leadership begins with self-leadership—taking care of oneself mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. This foundational principle resonated with me, as I reflected on my own experiences with leadership, particularly the challenges and responsibilities that come with it.

Dr. Carter shared her background, growing up in Ann Arbor, Michigan, in a family deeply rooted in healthcare. With a father who was an anesthesiologist and a mother who held multiple degrees in nursing and social work, she was inspired from a young age to pursue a career in medicine. Her early experiences, including volunteering in healthcare settings and caring for her grandmother, solidified her passion for patient care and the healing process.

As we explored her career trajectory, Dr. Carter revealed how her journey evolved from being a physician to stepping into leadership roles. She candidly discussed the moment she was approached for a leadership position and the initial self-doubt that crept in. However, with encouragement from her parents, she embraced the opportunity, which marked a significant turning point in her career.

Throughout our conversation, we touched on the importance of resilience and self-care in leadership. Dr. Carter shared her experiences with burnout and the strategies she employs to maintain her well-being while juggling the demands of her profession. We also discussed the critical role of emotional intelligence and the ability to see both the big picture and the details in effective leadership.

One of the most compelling aspects of our discussion was the recognition that education alone does not equate to leadership. Dr. Carter highlighted the need for clinicians to step into leadership roles and advocate for their peers, leveraging their unique perspectives to drive positive change in healthcare systems.

As we wrapped up the episode, I was struck by Dr. Carter's insights on the duality of being a clinician and a leader. Her journey serves as a powerful reminder that leadership is not just about authority; it's about influence, compassion, and the ability to inspire others.

In this episode of the HEALS Pod, I, Diego Trujillo, have the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Preethi R. Kumar, a board-certified physician from Reliant Physicians, who specializes in lifestyle medicine. This conversation has been a long time coming, and I am thrilled to finally delve into a topic that is not only close to my heart but also increasingly relevant in today's health landscape.

We kick off the episode by sharing personal stories about our journeys toward health and wellness. I open up about my own struggles with weight gain and the transformative changes I made after a wake-up call from social media. Dr. Kumar resonates with my experience, sharing her own path from working in acute care settings to realizing the importance of preventative health through lifestyle choices. Her transition to outpatient care allowed her to focus on empowering patients to make healthier decisions without relying solely on medications.

Throughout our discussion, we explore the six pillars of lifestyle medicine: nutrition, exercise, sleep, social connections, avoidance of toxic substances, and emotional health. Dr. Kumar emphasizes the significance of these pillars in preventing chronic diseases and maintaining overall well-being. We dive deep into the importance of sleep hygiene, the impact of diet on our health, and how social connections can enhance our emotional well-being.

One of the most enlightening parts of our conversation is when Dr. Kumar explains the concept of "blue zones," areas in the world where people live longer, healthier lives due to strong community ties and healthy lifestyle choices. We discuss how modern society often lacks these connections, leading to isolation, especially among seniors, and how fostering relationships can significantly improve mental health.

As we navigate through the episode, we also touch on practical strategies for listeners to implement in their own lives. Dr. Kumar introduces the idea of setting SMART goals—specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound—to help individuals incorporate healthier habits into their busy lives. We discuss the challenges many face in maintaining a balanced lifestyle and how small, manageable changes can lead to significant improvements over time.

This episode is not just about the science of health; it's about the human experience and the choices we make every day. Dr. Kumar's insights provide a refreshing perspective on how we can take control of our health through simple yet effective lifestyle changes. Whether you're struggling with your own health journey or simply looking to enhance your well-being, this conversation is packed with valuable information and inspiration.