Voyage Clinics Podcast

This podcast episode features Dr. John Sanders in conversation with Dr. Jeremy Gardner, a neurodevelopmental optometrist at Achieve Family Vision. Dr. Gardner explains that vision is far more than just achieving 20/20 eyesight—it's a crucial driver of attention, learning, and development from infancy through adulthood. He highlights how vision therapy, or what he calls “brain therapy through the eyes,” helps children and adults overcome challenges linked to conditions such as ADHD, dyslexia, autism, and even post-concussion recovery. He emphasizes the role of movement, outdoor play, and three-dimensional visual experiences in building strong visual and attentional skills.

The discussion moves into how current medical and educational systems tend to overlook these deeper aspects of vision. Pediatricians and schools typically screen only for clarity of sight, missing vision processing, tracking, and coordination issues that can mimic ADHD or dyslexia. Dr. Gardner explains that many children who struggle with reading, attention, or headaches are actually experiencing vision-related challenges, which can be identified through specialized testing. He also points out that vision difficulties can contribute to behavioral frustration, avoidance of reading, and overreliance on screens, as these require less visual effort than traditional learning.

Dr. Gardner shares that his practice uses comprehensive evaluations to uncover underlying causes of learning difficulties, pulling together insights from vision specialists, auditory experts, occupational therapists, speech pathologists, and mental health professionals. Their collaborative goal is to eliminate preventable learning barriers for Utah students by 2035. Importantly, he stresses that dyslexia and attention difficulties are not permanent roadblocks but challenges that can often be retrained and improved with proper intervention. The episode closes with a call for greater awareness among parents, teachers, and medical providers—highlighting that early recognition and a holistic, team-based approach can dramatically improve children’s confidence, learning, and lifelong potential.

Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice nor as a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the a​​dvice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice nor as a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Dr. Sanders brings on Shaunna and good friend, Chrizelle Ransom, to discuss the challenges of navigating medical information in the age of social media and algorithms. The discussion covers how attention-driven platforms reward controversy and “rage bait,” leading to viral misinformation that hooks people emotionally rather than logically. Dr. John and guests share personal experiences, such as how simple searches about household problems led to algorithmic spirals, and caution that seemingly harmless engagement can quickly expose users to harmful or misleading medical content.

The conversation also unpacks the psychological forces that make misinformation persuasive, including rhetoric, emotional appeals, and the phenomenon of “anti-expert bias,” where trained professionals are dismissed while influencers with little expertise gain trust simply by being relatable. Shaunna and Chrizelle note how historic failures within medicine and the healthcare system’s time constraints have eroded public trust, making people more vulnerable to misinformation and bias. But John counters that building trust through humility, time, and genuine listening emerges as a critical counterbalance.

Finally, the podcast emphasizes both patient and provider humility. Patients must recognize their own biases and stay open to trustworthy guidance, while providers should communicate transparently and admit uncertainty where it exists. The episode closes by highlighting practical tools, such as examine.com for supplement evidence and Open Evidence AI for accessing peer-reviewed medical data, which can help both providers and patients sift through the noise of online health information to make better, evidence-based decisions.

Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice nor as a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the a​​dvice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice nor as a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

This podcast episode explores the financial and practical considerations of bariatric (weight loss) surgery, emphasizing the need for transparent pricing in the U.S. healthcare system. Dr. Rasmussen discusses the disparity between what surgeons earn and what surgical facilities charge, pointing out that many components—such as disposable equipment and facility overhead—contribute to the high costs. The conversation also touches on medical tourism, particularly the risks involved when patients seek cheaper surgery abroad, where critical postoperative support and education may be lacking.

Dr. Rasmussen highlights the importance of comprehensive care in surgical weight loss programs. His clinic, Utah Surgical Associates, offers pre- and post-operative support, including consultations with dietitians, psychologists, and social workers, as well as lab monitoring and educational resources. He stresses that surgical weight loss is a tool, not a cure, requiring lasting lifestyle changes and long-term follow-up for success. Medication can also supplement surgery in certain cases to enhance outcomes.

The discussion concludes with insights into specialized procedures. Dr. Rasmussen also covers nutritional needs following surgery, including the use of bariatric-specific multivitamins and alternative supplementation options like patches. The episode wraps with a broader reflection on cultural habits and the need for grassroots health movements to combat the epidemic of processed food consumption and restore healthier living practices.

Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice nor as a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the a​​dvice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice nor as a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Dr. John Sanders, family physician and founder of Voyage Clinics, shares his mission to “fix healthcare” by addressing the flaws in cost, complexity, and access that plague the current system. Unlike traditional models that rush patient visits, Voyage Clinics emphasizes extended, personal interactions—often 30 to 60 minutes—so physicians can truly understand patients’ needs. This deeper relationship fosters trust, better diagnoses, and affordable pathways for care, from preventative screenings to urgent procedures.
Through a series of real patient stories, Dr. John illustrates how his clinic model benefits both individuals and businesses. For example, patients save hundreds of dollars on labs, imaging, pathology, and prescriptions compared to traditional insurance. Small businesses also find value in Voyage Clinics’ membership model, which provides employees with comprehensive, affordable care and helps reduce costly workers’ compensation claims. Advocacy is another central theme—Dr. John ensures patients receive appropriate attention from specialists and helps them navigate a complex system where cost and access often overshadow care.
Beyond the exam room, Dr. John highlights the importance of holistic approaches, including lifestyle and nature medicine. He shares personal experiences and evidence showing that time in nature reduces stress, improves cardiovascular health, and grounds people emotionally. This philosophy ties into Voyage Clinics’ mission of restoring humanity to healthcare—providing accessibility, advocacy, affordability, and a compassionate partnership that empowers patients to thrive physically and emotionally.
Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice nor as a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

In this episode of the Voyage Clinics podcast, Dr. John Sanders, a family physician, offers practical first aid guidance tailored for families. He discusses real-life experiences and provides actionable tips on managing common emergencies such as choking, fever, febrile seizures, and allergic reactions. Dr. Sanders underscores the importance of prevention, like cutting food into small pieces for children to avoid choking and recognizing early signs of serious issues such as persistent high fevers or febrile seizures in young kids.

The podcast covers an array of topics including nosebleeds, cuts, burns, and environmental injuries. Dr. Sanders explains how to manage bleeding effectively with proper pressure placement, the importance of cleaning wounds thoroughly using tap water, and ways to handle both minor and more complex lacerations using Steri-Strips or professional care. He advises against outdated methods like hydrogen peroxide, advocating for gentler, more effective treatments. For burns, he recommends quick cooling and outlines the degrees of burns and when professional care is necessary.

Finally, Dr. Sanders delves into respiratory issues like croup and asthma, insect bites, and tick-borne illnesses. He highlights how to recognize breathing distress in children, how to react to different severities of allergic reactions, and how to safely remove ticks. The episode is a valuable resource for parents, offering both reassurance and empowerment by teaching when home care is appropriate and when to seek medical help. His approach balances medical expertise with accessible, family-oriented advice.

Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice nor as a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the a​​dvice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice nor as a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

In this podcast episode from Voyage Clinics, Dr. John welcomes breathwork specialist Josh Perry for a deep conversation about emotional health, masculinity, and healing. Josh shares his background in psychology and web development and how his personal healing journey led him to breathwork and somatic practices. Both Dr. John and Josh reflect on how societal norms, particularly those taught to boys and men, discourage emotional expression and vulnerability, creating disconnection from one’s own emotions and from others.

Their conversation explores the emotional conditioning men experience, such as suppressing tears or defaulting to sarcasm as a defense mechanism. Dr. John shares personal stories of growth in self-awareness and emotional regulation, particularly in his relationships and parenting. Josh explains how breathwork helped him bypass the thinking mind to connect with buried emotions like shame and grief, which were previously masked by years of internalized beliefs and coping behaviors. They highlight the value of creating safe, supportive spaces for men to reconnect with themselves and others emotionally.

The discussion also touches on the healing power of music, the role of the voice in emotional release, and the need for culturally relevant tools to support men’s mental health. Josh shares stories of guiding breathwork sessions for youth and adults alike and emphasizes the importance of slow, compassionate entry into emotional work—especially for those who’ve never been invited to feel deeply. The episode closes with encouragement for men to know they are not broken, but rather conditioned—and that with the right tools and community, they can heal, connect, and live more wholehearted lives.

Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice nor as a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the a​​dvice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice nor as a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

In this episode of the Voyage Clinic podcast, Dr. John Sanders sits down with Amy Walker—business coach, entrepreneur, and founder of Exit School—to discuss how entrepreneurship can be a powerful vehicle for personal growth, wellness, and community impact. Amy shares her story of building businesses while raising five children, the turning point that led her to focus on creating companies that could thrive without her, and her mission to help others build transferable, scalable businesses. She explains how owning a business forces deep self-awareness, emotional maturity, and spiritual alignment, often accelerating personal development far beyond what a traditional career offers.

The conversation also explores practical strategies for building business value and planning for eventual exit, including why buying an existing business may be smarter than starting from scratch. Amy debunks common misconceptions about business acquisition and highlights how financial independence can unlock greater purpose—whether that’s more time with family or solving local problems like homelessness. She and Dr. Sanders ultimately emphasize that entrepreneurship, when done with clear intention and values, can lead to a healthier, more fulfilled life and a stronger community.

Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice nor as a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice nor as a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Voyage Clinics Podcast host Dr. John Sanders welcomes longtime friend and “pickleball bro” Jason Peery for a conversation about personal growth, coaching, and mental wellness. Jason introduces himself as a husband, father of six, grandfather of two, and someone with a strong passion for coaching, teaching, and supporting youth and families—especially in the mental health space. He shares that while he’s done a lot of business to pay the bills, his heart lies in helping young people grow through sports and mentoring.

The conversation touches on the value of human connection, vulnerability, and intentional living. Jason reflects on the cultural and generational barriers that often keep men from expressing their emotions and seeking support, and he emphasizes the power of simply being present and listening. He and Dr. Sanders explore how service, authenticity, and spiritual grounding contribute to a fulfilling life, especially for those navigating change or emotional difficulty. Jason also discusses his own efforts to keep growing and stay curious, even while supporting others.

Throughout the episode, both men underscore the importance of slowing down and making time for self-reflection, faith, and purpose. Jason encourages listeners to notice when they’re “operating from fear” and instead choose to lead with love and truth. Dr. Sanders ties these insights back to his clinical work, affirming how critical it is for people—especially men—to find spaces where they can speak openly and feel seen. The conversation closes with gratitude and a shared hope that listeners will be inspired to pause, connect, and live more fully.

Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice nor as a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice nor as a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

In this episode of the Voyage Clinics Podcast, host Dr. John Sanders interviews therapist Chantel Stratton Lund about her path into the mental health field and the importance of addressing men’s mental health. Chantel shares how her career trajectory shifted from an early interest in finance to therapy after realizing her deeper desire to help people on a personal level. Influenced by early exposure to mental health struggles and personal experiences, she pursued a Master’s in Social Work and began focusing on family dynamics and mental well-being. Her clinical work, particularly with ketamine-assisted therapy, has shown powerful results for patients with PTSD, depression, and suicidal ideation.

The conversation delves into the unique challenges men face in today’s social landscape, including emotional suppression, addiction to screens and video games, and lack of strong emotional support systems. Both Dr. Sanders and Chantel discuss how traditional masculinity and societal expectations discourage vulnerability, leading many men to feel isolated and emotionally stunted. They touch on the loneliness epidemic affecting men, with data showing a stark decline in male friendships over recent decades. Chantel explains how therapy can provide a safe space to explore emotional intelligence, challenge internalized shame, and learn to express vulnerability constructively.

The discussion also covers the benefits of ketamine therapy, particularly its impact on neuroplasticity, enabling patients to break entrenched mental patterns and form healthier ones. Dr. Sanders emphasizes the need for intention-setting and post-session therapeutic support to maximize ketamine’s transformative effects. The episode concludes with reflections on the power of genuine connection, the art of male friendship, and practical ways to cultivate vulnerability and emotional growth through small group interactions, service, and consistent outreach. Both speakers express a deep passion for supporting men’s mental health and highlight the importance of social connection, both inside and outside the therapy room.

Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice nor as a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice nor as a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

In this episode, Dr. Sanders is joined by Holly Hawkins for a reflective and personal conversation about the role of presence in healthcare. Dr. Sanders shares his thoughts on what it means to truly be present with patients—how slowing down, listening carefully, and being emotionally available can lead to deeper healing. He explains how the DPC model allows this kind of relationship-centered care by removing time-based billing and insurance barriers that typically interfere with connection.

Holly shares her own journey of rediscovering purpose through her roles in the clinic. With prior experience in clinical environments and a deep appreciation for people, she describes how working at the DPC practice has restored her sense of meaning. Holly talks about how greeting patients by name, forming real connections, and being part of a team that values intentional presence has transformed how she views both healthcare and her own life.

Together, John and Holly explore how the practice of presence doesn’t just apply to medical professionals—it’s a universal discipline that affects how we show up for one another. Their conversation is a gentle but powerful reminder that healing begins with being seen and heard, and that every person in a clinic—whether physician or receptionist—can be a vital part of that healing process.

Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice nor as a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice nor as a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.