In this episode of the Victory Medical Center Podcast, Dr. Donovan Simmons, Medical Director of Victory Rejuvenate, gives us the real, doctor-educated lowdown on growth hormone-releasing peptides (GHRPs) 🧬 and how they may support the body’s own natural growth hormone production.

Dr. Simmons explains the important difference between stimulating your body to produce its own growth hormone versus taking exogenous growth hormone. Growth hormone plays a role in several important processes in the body, including cellular repair, mitochondrial function, protein synthesis, body composition, and metabolism. 💪

And this isn’t just about looking or feeling younger! Dr. Simmons discusses the connection between growth hormone, visceral fat, inflammation, dyslipidemia, and overall cardiometabolic health ❤️—especially important when heart disease remains such a major health concern.

You’ll also hear about sermorelin and ipamorelin, two peptides that may be used together because they work through complementary pathways involved in growth hormone release. Dr. Simmons explains what they do, why certain peptides can be combined while others shouldn’t be, and why treatment should always be individualized and medically supervised. 👨‍⚕️

We also dive into some of the potential benefits patients may be seeking from GHRP therapy, including supporting lean muscle mass, reducing visceral fat, improving sleep, recovery, and overall well-being. 😴💪✨

And ladies, this conversation isn’t just for the men! 🙋‍♀️ Dr. Simmons explains why both men AND women may benefit from appropriately prescribed growth hormone-releasing peptide therapy.

One of the biggest takeaways from this episode? Peptides can magnify a healthy lifestyle—they don’t replace one. Nutrition, exercise, sleep, and healthy habits still matter! 🥗🏃‍♀️💤 Dr. Simmons also explains why many peptide therapies may be used in cycles rather than continuously year-round.

There’s a LOT to learn in this episode, so follow the Victory Medical Center Podcast wherever you get your podcasts 🎙️, share it with your friends, and keep listening for more doctor-educated conversations about your health and wellness.

Because around here, you know what we say…

🧬 “There’s a peptide for that!” 😃

🎙️ Meet Your Hosts 

Donna Lee, producer and host of the podcast—is a professional, national touring stand-up comedian—bringing expert insight and humor to health and wellness conversations. Donna has a distinguished and comprehensive background in the medical field, having served in key leadership roles including Practice Manager, Clinic Director, Marketing Director, and Pharmaceutical Sales Representative. 

Dr. Donovan Simmons serves as the Medical Director for Victory Rejuvenate Austin, TX. With an extensive background in emergent and intensive medicine, Dr. Simmons brings a wealth of clinical safety, oversight, and pathophysiological expertise to the Austin practice. Visit www.victoryrejuvinate.com or call them at (512) 462-DOCS (3627). 

Visit www.victoryrejuvinate.com or call them at (512) 462-DOCS (3627). 

Like what you heard or want to learn more about Victory Medical Center and VMC Pharmacy? Visit www.victorymed.com or call (512) 462-DOCS. For more peptide, wellness and aesthetics information, visit our new website www.victoryrejuvenate.com. 

Serving the Austin community since 1983, Dr. William “Billy” Franklin founded Victory Medical in 1996 and has built a world-class team across multiple specialties. His expertise includes natural hormone replacement therapy, age management, workers’ compensation, sports medicine, addiction medicine, depression, allergy testing and treatment, and weight loss.

Visit Victory Medical Center and Victory Pharmacy at 4303 Victory Dr. in Austin, Texas.

Remember… be the best you can be—at VMC!

Hey there, you fabulous, curious and health-loving humans! 🌟

In this episode of the Victory Medical Podcast, Donna Lee is once again joined by Victory Medical Center and VMC Pharmacy's Pharmacist in Charge (aka the PIC!), Aaron Zamanian. Aaron is not only the Pharmacy Director but he's also the peptide program "guru" and specialist! Donna and Aaron take a fascinating deep dive into the world of mitochondria-supporting peptides and why they're creating so much excitement in regenerative medicine.

First up is SS-31 (also known as Bendavia or elamipretide), a synthetic peptide designed to target the mitochondria—the tiny powerhouses inside your cells. Aaron explains how SS-31 helps support cellular energy production while reducing oxidative stress and discusses the research behind its potential role in conditions such as heart failure, Barth syndrome, mitochondrial myopathy, and even Long COVID. He also shares why some clinicians are exploring its potential benefits for certain neurological symptoms, including minor stuttering.

Next, Aaron breaks down MOTS-c, another remarkable mitochondria-derived peptide that helps regulate metabolism, improve insulin sensitivity, and support healthy energy balance. Often referred to as an "exercise mimetic," MOTS-c has become an exciting area of research for metabolic health and overall wellness.

Finally, the conversation turns to the ever-popular NAD, including what it is, why it matters for cellular health, and when supplementation may be appropriate.

Whether you're new to peptides or already fascinated by the latest advances in regenerative medicine, this episode is packed with valuable information to help you better understand how these therapies may support overall health and vitality.

Be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode of the Victory Medical Podcast, and visit victoryrejuvenate.com to learn more about the innovative peptide therapies offered by VMC Pharmacy. If you enjoy the show, share it with your friends and family!

And remember... there's a peptide for that! 😉

🎙️ Meet Your Hosts 

Donna Lee, producer and host of the podcast—is a professional, national touring stand-up comedian—bringing expert insight and humor to health and wellness conversations. Donna has a distinguished and comprehensive background in the medical field, having served in key leadership roles including Practice Manager, Clinic Director, Marketing Director, and Pharmaceutical Sales Representative. 

Aaron Zamanian, Pharm D, is a compounding pharmacy executive at Victory Medical Center and VMC Pharmacy, focused on peptide therapeutics. Aaron is known for his expertise in formulation strategy, regulatory compliance and clinical application of peptides in metabolic and longevity medicine. 

He has memberships and affiliations with:

American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine
Baylor Medical Center Family Practice Review
Advisory Council for Planned Parenthood
Society of Clinical Allergy
Committee for Physician’s Health and Rehabilitation
Phi Chi Medical and Service Fraternity
At Victory Medical Center, Dr. Franklin is involved with patient care in the areas of administration, family medicine, weight loss, skin care, and more.

Visit www.victoryrejuvinate.com or call them at (512) 462-DOCS (3627). 

Like what you heard or want to learn more about Victory Medical Center and VMC Pharmacy? Visit www.victorymed.com or call (512) 462-DOCS. For more peptide, wellness and aesthetics information, visit our new website www.victoryrejuvenate.com. 

Serving the Austin community since 1983, Dr. William “Billy” Franklin founded Victory Medical in 1996 and has built a world-class team across multiple specialties. His expertise includes natural hormone replacement therapy, age management, workers’ compensation, sports medicine, addiction medicine, depression, allergy testing and treatment, and weight loss.

Visit Victory Medical Center and Victory Pharmacy at 4303 Victory Dr. in Austin, Texas.

Remember… be the best you can be—at VMC!

🎙️ This week on The Victory Medical Podcast, Donna Lee is joined by Victory Medical Center VMC Pharmacy's Pharmacist in Charge (aka the PIC!), Aaron Zamanian, Pharmacy Director and peptide program specialist, to talk about one of his favorite peptides: larazotide!

What in the world is a "leaky gut," and why is everyone talking about it? 🤔 Aaron breaks it all down in a way that's easy to understand, explaining how larazotide works by helping restore the intestinal barrier, regulating tight junctions, and reducing inflammation that can be triggered by things like gluten. He also explains the important role of zonulin, why it matters, and how it all connects to gut health and overall wellness.

If you've been hearing the buzz about peptides but aren't quite sure what they do, this episode is a great place to start! 🎧

Tune in to The Victory Medical Podcast and discover why peptides are one of the hottest topics in health and wellness today. For more information about larazotide and the many other peptides available through Victory Medical Center, visit VictoryRejuvenate.com.

And remember... there's a peptide for that! 😉

🎙️ Meet Your Hosts 

Donna Lee, producer and host of the podcast—is a professional, national touring stand-up comedian—bringing expert insight and humor to health and wellness conversations. Donna has a distinguished and comprehensive background in the medical field, having served in key leadership roles including Practice Manager, Clinic Director, Marketing Director, and Pharmaceutical Sales Representative. 

Aaron Zamanian, Pharm D, is a compounding pharmacy executive at Victory Medical Center and VMC Pharmacy, focused on peptide therapeutics. Aaron is known for his expertise in formulation strategy, regulatory compliance and clinical application of peptides in metabolic and longevity medicine. 

He has memberships and affiliations with:

American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine
Baylor Medical Center Family Practice Review
Advisory Council for Planned Parenthood
Society of Clinical Allergy
Committee for Physician’s Health and Rehabilitation
Phi Chi Medical and Service Fraternity
At Victory Medical Center, Dr. Franklin is involved with patient care in the areas of administration, family medicine, weight loss, skin care, and more.

Visit www.victoryrejuvinate.com or call them at (512) 462-DOCS (3627). 

Like what you heard or want to learn more about Victory Medical Center and VMC Pharmacy? Visit www.victorymed.com or call (512) 462-DOCS. For more peptide, wellness and aesthetics information, visit our new website www.victoryrejuvenate.com. 

Serving the Austin community since 1983, Dr. William “Billy” Franklin founded Victory Medical in 1996 and has built a world-class team across multiple specialties. His expertise includes natural hormone replacement therapy, age management, workers’ compensation, sports medicine, addiction medicine, depression, allergy testing and treatment, and weight loss.

Visit Victory Medical Center and Victory Pharmacy at 4303 Victory Dr. in Austin, Texas.

Remember… be the best you can be—at VMC!

In this episode of The Victory Medical Center Podcast, host Donna Lee sits down with Pharmacist-in-Charge, Aaron Zamanian, PharmD, for an inside look at the impressive compounding pharmacy at Victory Medical Center in Austin, TX 🧪✨

Together, they break down what compounded medications are, how they’re made, and the key differences between sterile and non-sterile compounds 💊🔬. Aaron also dives into the fascinating world of peptides—how they’re created, how they work, and why they’re becoming such a powerful tool in modern medicine 🧠⚡

From GLP-1s and growth hormones to Delta Sleep, Thymosin Alpha-1, Melanotan, MPT, the Wolverine Stack, Larazotide, and more, this episode covers a wide range of innovative therapies available through VMC Pharmacy 🚀

You’ll also learn why peptides aren’t just about extending lifespan—but improving your healthspan, so you can feel better, longer 💃🏻💫

Curious to learn more? Visit victoryrejuvenate.com to explore all the cutting-edge options available—and don’t be surprised if you start saying, “There’s a peptide for that!” 😉

🎙️ Meet Your Hosts 

Donna Lee, producer and host of the podcast—is a professional, national touring stand-up comedian—bringing expert insight and humor to health and wellness conversations. Donna has a distinguished and comprehensive background in the medical field, having served in key leadership roles including Practice Manager, Clinic Director, Marketing Director, and Pharmaceutical Sales Representative. 

Aaron Zamanian, Pharm D, is a compounding pharmacy executive at Victory Medical Center and VMC Pharmacy, focused on peptide therapeutics. Aaron is known for his expertise in formulation strategy, regulatory compliance and clinical application of peptides in metabolic and longevity medicine. 

He has memberships and affiliations with:

American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine
Baylor Medical Center Family Practice Review
Advisory Council for Planned Parenthood
Society of Clinical Allergy
Committee for Physician’s Health and Rehabilitation
Phi Chi Medical and Service Fraternity
At Victory Medical Center, Dr. Franklin is involved with patient care in the areas of administration, family medicine, weight loss, skin care, and more.

Visit www.victoryrejuvinate.com or call them at (512) 462-DOCS (3627). 

Like what you heard or want to learn more about Victory Medical Center and VMC Pharmacy? Visit www.victorymed.com
or call (512) 462-DOCS.

Serving the Austin community since 1983, Dr. William “Billy” Franklin founded Victory Medical in 1996 and has built a world-class team across multiple specialties. His expertise includes natural hormone replacement therapy, age management, workers’ compensation, sports medicine, addiction medicine, depression, allergy testing and treatment, and weight loss.

Visit Victory Medical Center and Victory Pharmacy at 4303 Victory Dr. in Austin, Texas.

Remember… be the best you can be—at VMC!

“There’s a peptide for that!”—and this episode proves it. 💥

In this episode of The Victory Medical Center Podcast, Donna Lee sits down with Founder and Medical Director, Dr. William “Billy” Franklin, to explore the ever-evolving (and seriously fascinating) world of peptides.

What exactly are peptides? How do they work? How are they used—and why are so many people seeing real results? Dr. Franklin breaks it all down in a way that actually makes sense.

You’ll also hear about two powerful nasal spray peptides—Selank and Semax—designed to support cognitive function, especially as we age. If you’ve ever felt like your brain isn’t firing quite like it used to, this part is a must-listen.

And Dr. Franklin doesn’t just talk the talk—he lives it. Once sidelined by pain and forced to give up working out in his 60s, he shares how the right peptide therapy helped him get back in the gym—and even compete against guys half his age. 💪

The conversation also dives into a variety of peptides available at Victory Rejuvenate, including the buzz around GLP-1s—what they are, why they got off to a rocky start, and why they’ve become so popular today.

If you’ve been curious about peptides, this episode will open your eyes to what’s possible. Turns out… the slogan might actually be true—there really is a peptide for that!

🎙️ Meet Your Hosts 

Donna Lee, producer and host of the podcast—is a professional, national touring stand-up comedian—bringing expert insight and humor to health and wellness conversations. Donna has a distinguished and comprehensive background in the medical field, having served in key leadership roles including Practice Manager, Clinic Director, Marketing Director, and Pharmaceutical Sales Representative. 

Dr. William Franklin is the Founder and Medical Director of Victory Medical in South Austin, Texas. A healthcare provider since 1983, he started Victory Medical in 1996 and has since built a world-class team of providers and staff in various specialties. He has special training in natural hormone replacement therapy, age management, workers’ compensation management, sports medicine, addiction medicine, depression, allergy testing and treatment, and weight loss and weight control.

Dr. Franklin earned his Doctor of Medicine degree at the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) in Galveston. He also has experience as an associate clinical professor at UT Austin Nursing School and as an associate teaching faculty member at UTMB.

He has memberships and affiliations with:

American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine
Baylor Medical Center Family Practice Review
Advisory Council for Planned Parenthood
Society of Clinical Allergy
Committee for Physician’s Health and Rehabilitation
Phi Chi Medical and Service Fraternity
At Victory Medical Center, Dr. Franklin is involved with patient care in the areas of administration, family medicine, weight loss, skin care, and more.

Visit www.victoryrejuvinate.com or call them at (512) 462-DOCS (3627). 

Like what you heard or want to learn more about Victory Medical Center and VMC Pharmacy? Visit www.victorymed.com
or call (512) 462-DOCS.

Serving the Austin community since 1983, Dr. William “Billy” Franklin founded Victory Medical in 1996 and has built a world-class team across multiple specialties. His expertise includes natural hormone replacement therapy, age management, workers’ compensation, sports medicine, addiction medicine, depression, allergy testing and treatment, and weight loss.

Visit Victory Medical Center and Victory Pharmacy at 4303 Victory Dr. in Austin, Texas.

Remember… be the best you can be—at VMC!

In this week’s episode of The Victory Medical Center Podcast🎙️, Donna Lee sits down with Victory Medical’s Jude Chedville, APRN, CNS-BC to explore the fascinating world of peptides 🧬—with a special focus on thymosin alpha-1 and its powerful role in supporting the immune system 💪

They break down how this naturally occurring peptide works to enhance T-cell activity, reduce inflammation 🔥, and help the body fight chronic conditions and infections 🛡️. The conversation also dives into its potential benefits for overall wellness, recovery, and immune health 🌿

Jude shares an incredible real-life story about a patient who was overseas and feeling worse than ever 😩—but after starting thymosin alpha-1, experienced a dramatic turnaround by the very next day! 🙌✨

Curious about peptides and how they can support your health journey? Learn more about what Victory Medical and VMC Pharmacy have to offer at victoryrejuvenate.com or call 📞 (512) 462-DOCS (3627).

“There’s a peptide for that!” 😉

🎙️ Meet Your Host & Guest 

Donna Lee, producer and host of the podcast—is a professional, national touring stand-up comedian—bringing expert insight and humor to health and wellness conversations. Donna has a distinguished and comprehensive background in the medical field, having served in key leadership roles including Practice Manager, Clinic Director, Marketing Director, and Pharmaceutical Sales Representative. 

Jude Chedville, APRN, CNS-BC, is a board-certified Clinical Nurse Specialist and the founder of Victory Rejuvenate. With a background shaped by the rigors of critical care and functional medicine, Jude recognized early in her career that the conventional medical model—treating symptoms rather than systems—was failing patients dealing with fatigue, weight gain, and the profound effects of aging. Visit www.victoryrejuvinate.com or call them at (512) 462-DOCS (3627). 

Like what you heard or want to learn more about Victory Medical Center and VMC Pharmacy? Visit www.victorymed.com
or call (512) 462-DOCS.

Serving the Austin community since 1983, Dr. William “Billy” Franklin founded Victory Medical in 1996 and has built a world-class team across multiple specialties. His expertise includes natural hormone replacement therapy, age management, workers’ compensation, sports medicine, addiction medicine, depression, allergy testing and treatment, and weight loss.

Visit Victory Medical Center and Victory Pharmacy at 4303 Victory Dr. in Austin, Texas.

Remember… be the best you can be—at VMC!

In this episode of the Victory Medical Center Podcast, Donna Lee is joined by Dr. Donovan Simmons, Medical Director for Victory Rejuvenate at Victory Medical Center in Austin, TX. Together, they dive into one of the most talked-about topics in modern wellness: peptides.

What exactly are peptides, and why is everyone suddenly talking about them? Dr. Simmons breaks it all down in a way that’s easy to understand — from how peptides function in the body to how they’re being used to support everything from recovery and energy to overall health optimization.

You’ll also hear why patients are turning to VMC Pharmacy for trusted, high-quality peptide therapies, and how personalized treatment plans can make all the difference. Dr. Simmons shares fascinating insights along with real-life patient examples that highlight just how powerful these therapies can be.

By the end of this episode, you’ll understand why the buzz is growing — and why the team at Victory Medical Center likes to say: “There’s a peptide for that!”

If you’ve been curious about peptides or wondering if they might be right for you, this episode is a must-listen.

🎙️ Meet Your Host & Guest 

Donna Lee, producer and host of the podcast—is a professional, national touring stand-up comedian—bringing expert insight and humor to men’s health conversations. Donna has a distinguished and comprehensive background in the medical field, having served in key leadership roles including Practice Manager, Clinic Director, Marketing Director, and Pharmaceutical Sales Representative. 

Dr. Donovan Simmons serves as the Medical Director for Victory Rejuvenate Austin, TX. With an extensive background in emergent and intensive medicine, Dr. Simmons brings a wealth of clinical safety, oversight, and pathophysiological expertise to the Austin practice. Visit www.victoryrejuvinate.com or call them at (512) 462-DOCS (3627). 

Like what you heard or want to learn more about Victory Medical Center and VMC Pharmacy? Visit www.victorymed.com
or call (512) 462-DOCS.

Serving the Austin community since 1983, Dr. William “Billy” Franklin founded Victory Medical in 1996 and has built a world-class team across multiple specialties. His expertise includes natural hormone replacement therapy, age management, workers’ compensation, sports medicine, addiction medicine, depression, allergy testing and treatment, and weight loss.

Visit Victory Medical Center and Victory Pharmacy at 4303 Victory Dr. in Austin, Texas.

Remember… be the best you can be—at VMC!

Welcome back to the Victory Medical Podcast with Dr. Franklin and Donna Lee!  In this interesting episode, you will learn all about Victory Select which is the amazing site for all of your compound medication needs.  Victory Select is a truly revolutionary pharmaceutical and neutraceutical site where medications are custom made for YOU!  Everything from general wellness to allergy to hair loss to even erectile dysfunction, there's surely a customized medication that suits YOUR needs (and wants).  Tune in to this podcast and share it with your friends!  Visit www.victorymed.com to learn more about Victory Medical Center in Austin, TX and www.victoryselect.com to learn more about the amazing peptides they have to offer YOU!  

Like what you've heard or want to learn more about Victory Medical Center and VMC Pharmacy?  Visit www.victorymed.com or call (512) 462-DOCS.  A healthcare provider since 1983, Dr. William "Billy" Franklin started Victory Medical in 1996 and has since built a world-class team of providers and staff in various specialties. Dr. Franklin has special training in natural hormone replacement therapy, age management, workers’ compensation management, sports medicine, addiction medicine, depression, allergy testing and treatment, and weight loss and weight control.  Victory Medical Center and Victory Pharmacy, 4303 Victory Dr., Austin,  TX.  Remember, be the best you can be...at VMC!  

Welcome back to the Victory Medical Podcast with Dr. Franklin and Donna Lee.  In this episode, Dr. Franklin and Donna Lee talk about the most fascinating discussion in medicine these days…peptides!  Did you know there’s a peptide for almost any ailment or issue you may be experiencing?  Well, there is!  Dr. Franklin will discuss many peptides including BPC 157, Canthaxanthin, CJC 1295 + Ipamoralen, Melanotan, and more!  This is your chance to learn all about peptides!  Tune in to this podcast and learn a lot!  Tune in to this podcast and share it with your friends!  Visit www.victorymed.com to learn more about Victory Medical Center in Austin, TX and www.victoryselect.com to learn more about the amazing peptides they have to offer YOU!  

Like what you've heard or want to learn more about Victory Medical Center and VMC Pharmacy?  Visit www.victorymed.com or call (512) 462-DOCS.  A healthcare provider since 1983, Dr. William "Billy" Franklin started Victory Medical in 1996 and has since built a world-class team of providers and staff in various specialties. Dr. Franklin has special training in natural hormone replacement therapy, age management, workers’ compensation management, sports medicine, addiction medicine, depression, allergy testing and treatment, and weight loss and weight control.  Victory Medical Center and Victory Pharmacy, 4303 Victory Dr., Austin,  TX.  Remember, be the best you can be...at VMC!  

Do you know what to do to add another 20% of good quality life to YOUR life?!?  Part of the answer might be Rapamycin!  In this episode of the "Victory Medical Podcast with Dr. Franklin and Donna Lee," Dr. Franklin goes into great detail about Rapamycin...what it is, how it works, why it might extend your life a lot longer, where to get it, etc.  Fascinating!  More interesting and valuable podcast episodes to come!  Tune into this podcast episode and share it with your friends! 

Like what you've heard or want to learn more about Victory Medical Center and VMC Pharmacy?  Visit www.victorymed.com or call (512) 462-DOCS.  A healthcare provider since 1983, Dr. William "Billy" Franklin started Victory Medical in 1996 and has since built a world-class team of providers and staff in various specialties. Dr. Franklin has special training in natural hormone replacement therapy, age management, workers’ compensation management, sports medicine, addiction medicine, depression, allergy testing and treatment, and weight loss and weight control.  Victory Medical Center and Victory Pharmacy, 4303 Victory Dr., Austin,  TX.  Remember, be the best you can be...at VMC!