The Starting Gate

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Confused by health insurance? You’re not alone. In this episode, we sit down with personal benefits manager Whitney Kline  to unpack the key terms and choices that matter most—high vs. low deductibles, tax credits, coinsurance, and out-of-pocket maximums, plus how to make the most of HSAs and FSAs. We also explore the world of health shares and how they differ from traditional insurance. We simplify the terms, options, and strategies to help you choose wisely. A must-listen for anyone making decisions about coverage!

Find Whitney Kline:

Whitney Kline at HSA for America

HSA for America

Text Whitney at 720-741-1566

@hsaforamerica on X

HSA for America on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HSAforAmerica

thestartinggatepodcast.com

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[email protected]

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The content in this podcast is for general reference and educational purposes only.  It is not meant to be complete or exhaustive, or to be applicable to any
specific individual’s medical condition.   No information provided in this podcast constitutes medical advice and is not an attempt to practice medicine or to provide specific medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.  This podcast does not create a physician- patient relationship and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.  Please do not rely on this podcast for emergency medical treatment.  Remember that everyone is different so make sure you consult your own healthcare professional before seeking any new treatment and before you alter, suspend, or initiate a new change in your routine.

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Your brain is hard at work while you rest—and Dr. Lauren Whitehurst is here to explain how. From sleep cycles and memory consolidation to the impact of naps, nicotine, and hormones, we explore the surprising ways sleep shapes your cognitive health. If you’ve ever wondered how to make your sleep work better for you, this conversation is a must-listen. 

Are you interested in participating in research with Dr. Whitehurst?

- Research Study about effects of Alcohol and Hormones on Sleep:  email [email protected]

- Research on Sleep in Black Americans:  email [email protected]

thestartinggatepodcast.com

Email us with questions and topics you want us to cover at
[email protected]

Follow us on social media @thestartinggatepodcast




The content in this podcast is for general reference and educational purposes only.  It is not meant to be complete or exhaustive, or to be applicable to any
specific individual’s medical condition.   No information provided in this podcast constitutes medical advice and is not an attempt to practice medicine or to provide specific medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.  This podcast does not create a physician- patient relationship and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.  Please do not rely on this podcast for emergency medical treatment.  Remember that everyone is different so make sure you consult your own healthcare professional before seeking any new treatment and before you alter, suspend, or initiate a new change in your routine.

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Insomnia is more than just a bad night’s sleep—it’s a frustrating and emotional experience for millions. In this powerful episode, sleep psychologist Dr. Ryan Wetzler helps us understand the science behind sleep timing and chronotypes, the very real fear of not sleeping, and why Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is such a life-changing tool. Whether you’re just starting to struggle or have relied on sleep meds for years, this conversation offers hope—and a clear path forward. 

Find Dr. Ryan Wetzler:

Sleep Health Center

Find Behavioral Sleep Specialists:

Board of Behavioral Sleep Medicine

American Board of Sleep Medicine: List of Behavioral Sleep Medicine Specialists

Society of Behavioral Sleep Medicine

thestartinggatepodcast.com

Email us with questions and topics you want us to cover at
[email protected]

Follow us on social media @thestartinggatepodcast




The content in this podcast is for general reference and educational purposes only.  It is not meant to be complete or exhaustive, or to be applicable to any
specific individual’s medical condition.   No information provided in this podcast constitutes medical advice and is not an attempt to practice medicine or to provide specific medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.  This podcast does not create a physician- patient relationship and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.  Please do not rely on this podcast for emergency medical treatment.  Remember that everyone is different so make sure you consult your own healthcare professional before seeking any new treatment and before you alter, suspend, or initiate a new change in your routine.

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We all know sleep is important—but do you know just how far its benefits go? In this kickoff episode of our sleep series, we dive into the surprising ways sleep supports your brain, heart, metabolism, immune system, and more. Plus, we break down how daily habits—from evening workouts to that afternoon latte—can help or hurt your ability to get quality rest.

Tune in to fully understand the true healing power of sleep.

And stay tuned for Episode 2, where we’re joined by sleep psychologist, Dr. Ryan Wetzler to talk about what to do when sleep doesn’t come easily.

Then in Episode 3, we speak with a sleep researcher and psychologist about what your brain is really doing while you sleep—and how to use that knowledge to boost learning, memory, and even make the most of your naps.

thestartinggatepodcast.com

Email us with questions and topics you want us to cover at
[email protected]

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The content in this podcast is for general reference and educational purposes only.  It is not meant to be complete or exhaustive, or to be applicable to any
specific individual’s medical condition.   No information provided in this podcast constitutes medical advice and is not an attempt to practice medicine or to provide specific medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.  This podcast does not create a physician- patient relationship and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.  Please do not rely on this podcast for emergency medical treatment.  Remember that everyone is different so make sure you consult your own healthcare professional before seeking any new treatment and before you alter, suspend, or initiate a new change in your routine.

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From bored kids to bedtime battles, summer can be a wild ride for families. Luckily, pediatrician Dr. Sarah O’Leary is here to help. In this episode, we talk about water safety, helmets, sunscreen, screen time, and how to set up a summer routine that keeps kids safe, healthy, and (mostly) happy. You’ll also hear how the principles of lifestyle medicine—like sleep, movement, nutrition, and social connection—can make this summer your best one yet. 

Prescription for healthy families: 5-2-1-0​

• ​​Five: Eat five or more servings of fruits and vegetables each day.
• Two: Limit screen time to no more than two hours a day.
• One: Be physically active at least one hour a day.
• Zero: Don't drink sweetened beverages.

Ideas for kids in Lexington, KY.  If you are somewhere else you likely have these same resources so check it out!

Lex Fun 4 Kids

Macaroni Kid - Lexington, KY

Lexington Public Library Events Calendar

LexARTS

thestartinggatepodcast.com

Email us with questions and topics you want us to cover at
[email protected]

Follow us on social media @thestartinggatepodcast




The content in this podcast is for general reference and educational purposes only.  It is not meant to be complete or exhaustive, or to be applicable to any
specific individual’s medical condition.   No information provided in this podcast constitutes medical advice and is not an attempt to practice medicine or to provide specific medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.  This podcast does not create a physician- patient relationship and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.  Please do not rely on this podcast for emergency medical treatment.  Remember that everyone is different so make sure you consult your own healthcare professional before seeking any new treatment and before you alter, suspend, or initiate a new change in your routine.

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If you've ever wondered whether your fatigue, joint pain, or brain fog could be more than "just stress," this episode is for you.  We sit down with rheumatologist Dr. Olga Pinkston to demystify inflammatory arthritis and fibromyalgia- how they show up, how they’re diagnosed, and why lifestyle choices matter.   Learn how food, movement, rest, and stress management aren’t just supportive—they’re essential in managing autoimmune conditions. Whether you’ve been recently diagnosed or are seeking answers to persistent joint pain, this episode provides a clear, compassionate path to better understanding and managing chronic inflammation.  

Find Dr. Olga Pinkston

Whole Health Rheumatology

Mind Your Fibro Podcast

Resources recommended by Dr. Pinkston:

Insight Timer App- free resource for meditation, yoga nidra, mindfulness

American College of Rheumatology patient resources

Arthritis Foundation Healthy Living

Dr. Andrew Weil's Anti-inflammatory Diet

Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

thestartinggatepodcast.com

Email us with questions and topics you want us to cover at
[email protected]

Follow us on social media @thestartinggatepodcast




The content in this podcast is for general reference and educational purposes only.  It is not meant to be complete or exhaustive, or to be applicable to any
specific individual’s medical condition.   No information provided in this podcast constitutes medical advice and is not an attempt to practice medicine or to provide specific medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.  This podcast does not create a physician- patient relationship and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.  Please do not rely on this podcast for emergency medical treatment.  Remember that everyone is different so make sure you consult your own healthcare professional before seeking any new treatment and before you alter, suspend, or initiate a new change in your routine.

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In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Selena Raines, a board-certified family physician and Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, for a refreshing look at how healthcare can work differently for patients. We explore Direct Primary Care (DPC): what it is, how it’s changing the patient-doctor relationship, and why more doctors are moving away from traditional insurance-based models.

 Dr. Raines also explains the difference in training between DOs (Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine) and MDs, helping listeners understand what makes osteopathic medicine unique. We dive into osteopathic manipulation—a hands-on treatment approach used for conditions like back pain, headaches, and even chronic medical issues—and how it differs from chiropractic care. 

Tune in to gain a better understanding of your options—and how to take charge of your healthcare 

Find Dr. Raines at:

Body Mind Spirit DPC

catch her on facebook or Instagram

thestartinggatepodcast.com

Email us with questions and topics you want us to cover at
[email protected]

Follow us on social media @thestartinggatepodcast




The content in this podcast is for general reference and educational purposes only.  It is not meant to be complete or exhaustive, or to be applicable to any
specific individual’s medical condition.   No information provided in this podcast constitutes medical advice and is not an attempt to practice medicine or to provide specific medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.  This podcast does not create a physician- patient relationship and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.  Please do not rely on this podcast for emergency medical treatment.  Remember that everyone is different so make sure you consult your own healthcare professional before seeking any new treatment and before you alter, suspend, or initiate a new change in your routine.

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 In this wide-ranging conversation with pain specialist Dr. Shawn Milburn, we break down what really causes back pain and how to treat it effectively. From physical therapy and lifestyle changes to medications and surgical options, we walk through a full toolbox of strategies. We also confront one of the most debated issues in pain management: opioids for chronic back pain—when they're helpful, when they’re harmful, and what patients need to know. Finally, we dig into injection therapies—what kinds of pain they work for, how they’re used, and why they aren’t a cure-all. 

Find Dr. Shawn Milburn at Commonwealth Pain & Spine

Find him on Facebook

thestartinggatepodcast.com

Email us with questions and topics you want us to cover at
[email protected]

Follow us on social media @thestartinggatepodcast




The content in this podcast is for general reference and educational purposes only.  It is not meant to be complete or exhaustive, or to be applicable to any
specific individual’s medical condition.   No information provided in this podcast constitutes medical advice and is not an attempt to practice medicine or to provide specific medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.  This podcast does not create a physician- patient relationship and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.  Please do not rely on this podcast for emergency medical treatment.  Remember that everyone is different so make sure you consult your own healthcare professional before seeking any new treatment and before you alter, suspend, or initiate a new change in your routine.

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, we sit down with orthopedic surgeon Dr. Kevin Denehy to  break down everything you need to know about knee osteoarthritis.   We explore why osteoarthritis happens, how to help prevent and slow the damage, and lifestyle modifications that can make a real difference.   We also cover pain management options, from supplements and medications to various types of injections, and take a deep dive into knee replacement surgery—what to expect, how to prepare, and how to achieve the best possible recovery.  Whether you're managing knee pain or seeking to protect your joint health, this episode is packed with expert advice to keep you moving.

You can find Dr. Kevin Denehy at Bluegrass Orthopaedics

• Schedule an appointment: https://www.bluegrassortho.com/request-an-appointment
• Learn More about Dr. Denehy & his team: https://www.bluegrassortho.com/team-members/kevin-m-denehy-m-d

 Twitter 

Facebook 

Helpful links:

Knees Over Toes on YouTube

@kneesovertoesguy

thestartinggatepodcast.com

Email us with questions and topics you want us to cover at
[email protected]

Follow us on social media @thestartinggatepodcast




The content in this podcast is for general reference and educational purposes only.  It is not meant to be complete or exhaustive, or to be applicable to any
specific individual’s medical condition.   No information provided in this podcast constitutes medical advice and is not an attempt to practice medicine or to provide specific medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.  This podcast does not create a physician- patient relationship and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.  Please do not rely on this podcast for emergency medical treatment.  Remember that everyone is different so make sure you consult your own healthcare professional before seeking any new treatment and before you alter, suspend, or initiate a new change in your routine.

Send us Fan Mail

In this powerful episode, Dr. Sarah Schuetz shares her personal experience of losing her home in a devastating fire—and the lessons she learned the hard way about home insurance, emotional resilience, and the importance of community.

We’re joined by Hays Featherston, Sarah’s home insurance agent, who helps break down the details of what is and isn’t covered in most policies, what to look for when choosing insurance, and how to better protect your assets before disaster strikes.  We also talk about what it’s like to need support from others and how you can be there for someone going through a crisis. 

Don’t wait for a crisis to realize what you didn’t know—tune in and take away tips that could make all the difference.

If you would like to contact Hays Featherston for your insurance needs please see the links below:

Follow AssuredPartners on social media for more insurance insights and tips, or sign up for their newsletter!

Instagram

Facebook

LinkedIn

Newsletter

Schedule time with Hays.  Hays is available over the phone and/or in person. Let him know your availability and meeting preference and he will reach out to coordinate.  

Call: (859) 338-4985

Email: [email protected]

Share current insurance policies.  Upload your current insurance documents quickly and securely through a platform called Canopy Connect. Hays will send back additional questions to ensure everything is up to date and accurate.

Upload documents here

Shop for solutions.  Explore and inquire about the coverage you’re interested in, and Hays will shop the best solutions available for your needs. He will review these with you, provide recommendations and answer any questions you may have.

Start shopping solutions here

thestartinggatepodcast.com

Email us with questions and topics you want us to cover at
[email protected]

Follow us on social media @thestartinggatepodcast




The content in this podcast is for general reference and educational purposes only.  It is not meant to be complete or exhaustive, or to be applicable to any
specific individual’s medical condition.   No information provided in this podcast constitutes medical advice and is not an attempt to practice medicine or to provide specific medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.  This podcast does not create a physician- patient relationship and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.  Please do not rely on this podcast for emergency medical treatment.  Remember that everyone is different so make sure you consult your own healthcare professional before seeking any new treatment and before you alter, suspend, or initiate a new change in your routine.