Voyage Clinics Podcast

Dr. John interviews Paige Moore, a third-year medical student, who shares her inspiring journey through medical education and how she became passionate about direct primary care (DPC). Initially drawn to medicine because of her interest in whole-person care and community health, Paige discovered DPC during her first year of medical school and was struck by its alignment with her values. She reflects on the shortcomings of the traditional insurance-based healthcare model, especially the rushed appointments and administrative overload that distance providers from their patients. Paige shares how shadowing in a DPC clinic helped her see what medicine could look like when it’s centered on relationships and true healing.

Paige also talks about the challenges and hopes of navigating medical school with a mindset that diverges from many of her peers. While many students are focused on specialties and financial incentives, Paige is committed to primary care and is vocal about her desire to build a practice that prioritizes people over productivity. She describes the tension between what she's learning in the classroom and what she sees modeled in innovative practices like DPC, and how important it is to find mentors and communities that support her vision.

Finally, Paige offers advice to other students who feel called to a more meaningful kind of medicine. She encourages them to ask hard questions, seek out nontraditional experiences, and trust that they can carve their own path even within a rigid system. Her story is one of conviction, clarity, and quiet rebellion — a reminder that the future of medicine is shaped by those willing to imagine and pursue something better.

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 heartfelt episode of the Voyage Clinics Podcast, Dr. John interviews Dani Enkey, a doula and mother of five, about her personal journey and professional work in the birth and postpartum space. Dani shares how her own transformation—from feeling lost in motherhood to reclaiming her identity—led her to support other women navigating similar paths. She describes the internalized belief systems that kept her from prioritizing her own needs and how mentorship and intentional self-discovery helped her regain her voice and confidence.

The conversation dives deep into the sacred nature of birth, highlighting the unique emotional, physical, and spiritual experiences women undergo during labor and postpartum. Dani explains the important role a doula can play in that journey—providing consistent support, comfort measures, and emotional anchoring that helps birthing women stay centered. She and Dr. John discuss the doula’s role in bridging communication gaps with medical staff, helping families feel empowered, and easing the unpredictable transitions of labor. Dani likens doulas to a nurturing presence that fills the "cracks" left in sterile clinical environments with warmth, care, and feminine energy.

The episode ends with a look at postpartum support and community building. Dani introduces her initiative, Wise Women Collective, which aims to provide wraparound care for women throughout fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum through coaching, education, and group support. She emphasizes the importance of connection and care in reducing maternal isolation and mental health struggles, advocating for a model of care that is proactive, gentle, and deeply human. Dr. John praises her vision and work, noting its alignment with the values of his practice.

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.

Dr. John meets with Aimee Hadfield, a board-certified practitioner of group therapy, sociometry, and psychodrama, as she shares her journey into mental health work. Although she initially didn’t believe in therapy, the loss of her brother and her drive to help others led her to co-found Hearten House, an experiential therapy center. Aimee recounts a pivotal moment during a psychodrama training that transformed her perspective, emphasizing the embodied, individualized nature of psychodrama and its unique ability to access deeper emotional healing beyond traditional talk therapy.

The episode explores how psychodrama—an action-based, person-centered therapeutic approach—uses embodiment, role reversal, and group dynamics to help individuals access inner wisdom and reshape their internal narratives. Aimee and Dr. John discuss how psychodrama supports healing through spontaneity, movement, and emotional engagement, often unlocking insights unavailable through conventional modalities. Aimee explains tools like spectrograms, sociometry, and role-playing with symbolic figures to access strength-based roles, reframe trauma, and foster transformation.

They also delve into psychodrama's applications for addiction recovery, grief, family roles, and self-perception, emphasizing its research-backed effectiveness in reducing anxiety, PTSD, and depression. Aimee speaks to the power of group therapy and how psychodrama allows clients to physically rehearse new behaviors, leading to neurologically reinforced change. The episode ends with a reflection on spontaneity as a remedy for the impulsivity epidemic fueled by digital overstimulation, and Aimee’s encouragement to seek therapists with rigorous psychodrama training.

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.

Dr. John Sanders welcomes back Dr. Diane Spangler in this second episode with the psychologist and researcher. The conversation explores the biological, psychological, and behavioral foundations of anxiety, framing it as a preparatory system distinct from fear and anger. Dr. Spangler explains how anxiety, when moderate, enhances performance, but when excessive, becomes paralyzing. The discussion highlights the upside-down U-shaped curve of anxiety’s relationship to performance, and explores physiological distinctions between adrenal stress responses in fear versus anxiety.

Dr. Spangler introduces the concept of “worry time” — a structured approach that helps individuals differentiate between constructive and non-constructive worry. She explains how this practice allows people to recognize and validate worry without being consumed by it, providing a clear strategy to identify actionable steps or let go of repetitive rumination. Through vivid examples like earthquake preparedness during the early days of COVID-19, Dr. Spangler shows how this method can help shift a person’s relationship with anxiety by training the mind to pause, process, and plan instead of spinning in cycles of dread.

The conversation also delves into deeper emotional intelligence and identity issues related to chronic anxiety, such as over-responsibility, generational worry patterns, and empathy burnout. Dr. Sanders shares personal and parenting insights, exploring how core beliefs about responsibility and care often shape anxious thinking. Together, they underscore the importance of recognizing anxiety’s helpful roots while learning to set boundaries, recalibrate beliefs, and reframe experiences. Dr. Spangler concludes with an encouraging message: anxiety serves a purpose, but it shouldn’t control your life — and with the right tools, it doesn’t have to.

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 inspiring episode, Dr. John welcomes Amanda and Kolton Rackham, a couple who embarked on a life-changing journey of self-discovery by walking across the United States. The couple met during a personal development seminar, where they connected through their shared interest in growth and emotional awareness. Both came from complex family backgrounds and had already experienced personal trials, including job loss and disrupted plans. These challenges led them to question societal expectations and ultimately commit to a cross-country walk driven by intuition and trust in a higher power.

Their 15-month journey was marked by letting go—of material possessions, control, and traditional life paths. Along the way, they relied on faith and vision rather than rigid planning, finding that support and resources often appeared at exactly the right time. One of the most extraordinary moments was the birth of their baby at the home of a retired midwife, perfectly aligning with their hope for a natural delivery. Their story illustrates the power of surrender, presence, and choosing love and connection over fear and convention.

Dr. John reflects on how their story resonates with the challenges faced by many in the medical field who feel trapped in dogmatic systems. The conversation bridges the emotional and spiritual aspects of health, the importance of neuroplasticity, and the value of shedding limiting beliefs. Amanda and Kolton’s journey becomes a metaphor for finding one's path by letting go of outdated rules and trusting deeply in the process. Their insights serve as both a personal testimony and a universal reminder that growth begins when we choose vision over fear and authenticity over obligation. 

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 heartfelt episode of the Voyage Clinics podcast, Dr. John Sanders interviews Lisa Hall, a compassionate and experienced nurse practitioner, as she shares her life and professional journey. Raised in a small Utah town as the oldest of eight children, Lisa grew up caring for others—a trait that naturally led her into nursing. She trained alongside her mother at BYU, eventually working with her in clinical practice, and is now inspiring her own daughter to pursue nursing. 

Lisa’s early career included labor and delivery and NICU nursing later transitioning into integrative neurology and addiction care. Her work with patients struggling with neurological conditions and opioid addiction, including her own brother, emphasized the importance of whole-person healing. She expressed concern over the constraints of traditional insurance-based medicine—short visits, restricted lab work, and limited follow-up—leading her to seek a more meaningful way to care for patients. That search ultimately brought her to Voyage Clinics, a direct primary care model that offers transparency, flexibility, and the time needed to truly connect and heal.

Lisa also opens up about her personal health struggles which have given her deeper empathy and insight into her patients’ experiences. She praises the innovative, patient-first environment at Voyage Clinics, highlighting its affordability, collaborative team, and wealth of resources, such as evidence-based health coaching and advanced AI tools for research. Lisa's authenticity, lived experience, and passion for whole-person care make her a perfect addition to the Voyage Clinics team and a deeply valued resource for her patients.

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.

Dr. John welcomes Marilyn Sorensen, a seasoned family nurse practitioner with over 43 years of experience. Marilyn shares her journey into medicine, initially debating between music and nursing before ultimately choosing healthcare as a practical and fulfilling career. She reflects on her upbringing in a military family, living in Germany during high school, and how her father's role as the "Berlin Candy Bomber" influenced her values of compassion and service. Marilyn's decision to pursue nursing was shaped by her experiences with patients and personal life events, including the loss of a family member to kidney cancer, which motivated her to advance her education and become a nurse practitioner.

The conversation highlights Marilyn's passion for patient-centered care, particularly in women's health, bioidentical hormone therapy, osteoporosis management, and general family medicine. She and Dr. John discuss the importance of spending adequate time with patients, creating meaningful connections, and avoiding the rushed, impersonal nature of corporate healthcare. They emphasize the role of music in healing, drawing parallels between Marilyn’s love for music and the artistry involved in patient care. Dr. John also shares his own experiences integrating music into his practice, including his reputation as the “singing doctor” in Moab.

As Marilyn joins the Voyage Clinics team, she expresses enthusiasm for the clinic’s mission to provide personalized, accessible, and transparent healthcare. She and Dr. John reflect on the broken aspects of the healthcare system, the challenges of maintaining integrity in a fast-paced industry, and the importance of making patients feel heard. The episode concludes with a heartfelt discussion about Marilyn’s late father’s legacy and the lasting impact of kindness in both medicine and life.

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 Clinic's Podcast, host Dr. John Sanders welcomes guest Melissa Holmes, a dedicated mother of three and the director of Roomb Humanitarian, an international service organization. Melissa shares her journey of balancing motherhood with meaningful work, reflecting on the personal struggles of rediscovering oneself after years devoted to raising children. She emphasizes the importance of self-care and finding fulfilling pursuits beyond parenting. Dr. Sanders highlights the common challenges many mothers face in their personal growth and the necessity of creating support systems to navigate these transitions.

The conversation then shifts to the healthcare concerns that many mothers encounter, particularly when caring for young children. Dr. Sanders and Melissa discuss common medical issues, including rashes, ear infections, and fevers, and when parents should seek medical attention. Melissa shares her personal experiences with Voyage Clinics, describing how the direct relationship with her doctor alleviates the stress and uncertainty of navigating the traditional healthcare system. Dr. Sanders explains the benefits of direct primary care, which offers immediate and personalized medical guidance, reducing unnecessary emergency visits and empowering parents with knowledge.

The episode concludes with an insightful discussion on the challenges of the traditional healthcare system and the advantages of direct primary care. Melissa recounts how Voyage Clinics played a crucial role in her daughter’s medical journey, providing not only medical expertise but also emotional support. Dr. Sanders stresses the need for a shift in healthcare culture, advocating for a more personalized, patient-centered approach. The episode serves as both an informative and empowering discussion for parents, providing reassurance and practical guidance on managing their children's health while maintaining their own well-being.

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.

Dr. John welcomes pediatrician Dr. Jonathen Bartholomew to The Voyage Clinics Podcast, where they discuss his journey into medicine, his passion for pediatrics, and practical advice for parents. Dr. Bartholomew shares how his early exposure to emergency medical care, combined with his family's influence, led him toward the medical field. He recounts his residency in pediatrics, the challenges of balancing rigorous training with family life, and his eventual return to Utah to practice medicine in a community setting.

The conversation shifts to pediatric care, with Dr. Bartholomew providing insights on newborn wellness, the importance of early developmental screenings, and strategies for ensuring a healthy start in life. He highlights key red flags in infancy, such as lack of eye contact and weak muscle tone, and stresses the importance of early intervention for conditions like autism and developmental delays. He also discusses the significance of sleep, proper nutrition, and exercise for both children and parents, emphasizing practical parenting strategies to help parents create a supportive environment for their children.

The discussion concludes with a deep dive into the impact of screen time and modern technology on child development. Dr. Bartholomew and Dr. John discuss the dangers of excessive screen exposure, particularly during early childhood and adolescence, and advocate for physical activity and real-world engagement to counterbalance the negative effects. They suggest setting limits on screen time while encouraging outdoor play and structured activities. The episode ends with gratitude and encouragement for listeners to prioritize wellness and mindful parenting.

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.

This episode features Hal and Dianna Black as they discuss the journey of aging gracefully and the importance of lifelong learning, humor, and community. Hosted by Dr. John and Shaunna, the conversation highlights the experiences that have shaped the Blacks’ lives, from Hal’s academic journey in zoology and fieldwork in Africa to Dianna’s passion for literature and teaching. Their shared love of learning and curiosity has kept their minds engaged and sharp, reinforcing the idea that intellectual stimulation plays a key role in aging well.

Beyond academics, Hal and Dianna share their perspectives on maintaining strong relationships and navigating the challenges of aging. They emphasize the importance of humor, adaptability, and avoiding negativity. Dianna’s analogy of marriage as a musical composition—where harmony and dissonance are both essential—illustrates their philosophy of maintaining balance in relationships. They also touch on the power of memory and self-awareness, as demonstrated in their journaling habits, which serve as personal histories and reflections of their life experiences.

A key takeaway from their discussion is the significance of community and staying actively involved with younger generations. From their abundant garden, where neighbors gather to harvest and can food, to their philosophy of living without fences, Hal and Dianna have built a lifestyle that fosters connection. Their commitment to lifelong learning, positive outlook, and deep appreciation for community relationships exemplify the principles of aging with grace and joy.

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.