Voyage Clinics Podcast

Dr. John and Shaunna dive into coverage with Zac Lovingier, an experienced healthcare insurance broker, about the complexities of health insurance, particularly for small business owners, individuals, and families. Zac shares his journey in healthcare, beginning as a social worker and later transitioning into the insurance industry in 2005. His mission has always been to help people navigate the confusing world of Medicare and health insurance, offering clients tailored advice that benefits their needs rather than selling high-commission products. Zac emphasizes the importance of building a brokerage where trust and client advocacy are prioritized over profit margins.

The conversation shifts to the impact of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and how it changed the insurance landscape, particularly for individuals with pre-existing conditions. Zac explains the challenges employers face in offering health coverage, noting that many small businesses cannot afford the high costs of group plans. This often results in employees having to opt out due to high premiums, leaving them unable to access more affordable plans through the ACA. Zac advocates for a creative approach, suggesting that employers dissolve group plans and instead offer direct primary care services (such as through Voyage Clinic) while helping employees navigate ACA subsidies to find better, affordable individual coverage.

In the final segment, Zac and Dr. John discuss the alternative health insurance options available for individuals and families, such as health shares and indemnity plans. These options, while not traditional insurance, offer flexibility and affordability for those with specific health needs or higher incomes. They also highlight the need for careful consideration when choosing between health shares, ACA plans, or indemnity plans, as each has different levels of coverage and cost structures. Ultimately, the episode provides insight into the complexities of modern healthcare and the importance of tailored insurance solutions.

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 interviews Dr. Alina Fong, a neuropsychologist specializing in brain injuries, particularly concussions and post-concussion syndrome. Dr. Fong shares her journey, from growing up in Hawaii to earning her PhD and working with military veterans who suffered traumatic brain injuries (TBI) during the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. She discusses how concussions are often misunderstood due to the invisible nature of the injuries and the neuro-metabolic energy crisis that occurs in the brain after a concussion. Dr. Fong emphasizes that concussions do not always result in loss of consciousness, making it difficult for some to recognize the severity of the injury.

The conversation delves into the common symptoms of concussions, which include cognitive, emotional, and physical challenges, such as brain fog, irritability, and sensitivity to light and sound. Dr. Fong discusses the outdated practice of "cocooning" patients in dark rooms, which has been replaced by recommendations for light physical activity and social interaction within 24 to 48 hours after injury. She stresses the importance of early intervention and encourages patients to seek medical attention if symptoms persist, to avoid the progression to post-concussion syndrome (PCS), which is diagnosed when symptoms last longer than six months.

Dr. Fong also discusses the innovative treatments available at her clinic, Cognitive FX, located in Provo, Utah. The clinic uses functional MRI (fMRI) to assess brain function and develop personalized rehabilitation programs for concussion and PCS patients. The treatment program is an intensive two-week schedule that includes cognitive therapy, neuromuscular therapy, and physical rehabilitation. Dr. Fong highlights the success rate of her clinic, with 90% of patients reporting significant symptom reduction after just one week of treatment.

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 continues the conversation with Dr. Alireza Falahati, an endocrinologist, on a deep dive into thyroid gland disorders and their treatment. Dr. Falahati discusses the importance of iodine in thyroid function and explains how deficiencies in modern diets—caused by trends like using non-iodized salts—can lead to thyroid dysfunctions. He recommends kelp supplements as a source of iodine for individuals at risk of deficiency and highlights the significance of selenium, which helps reduce inflammation in thyroid conditions like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.

The discussion shifts to the relationship between lifestyle factors, such as stress and diet, and thyroid health. Dr. Falahati emphasizes how high cortisol levels caused by stress or lack of sleep can interfere with the conversion of T4 to T3, exacerbating symptoms of hypothyroidism. He also covers the role of cruciferous vegetables in thyroid function and assures listeners that while these vegetables contain goitrogens, which can block iodine absorption, their benefits far outweigh any potential negative effects in a typical diet.

Lastly, the conversation explores various thyroid conditions like Hashimoto's disease and Graves' disease. Dr. Falahati explains that Hashimoto’s can lead to both hypothyroidism and the development of thyroid nodules, while Graves’ disease causes hyperthyroidism. He outlines the treatment options for these conditions, ranging from thyroid hormone replacement therapy to innovative treatments like radiofrequency ablation for thyroid nodules. Dr. Falahati stresses the importance of early diagnosis and careful management to prevent long-term complications like osteoporosis or heart problems in hyperthyroid 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 interviews Tyler Hacking, a passionate scientist specializing in mycology, botany, and environmental chemistry. Tyler shares his journey from growing up in Utah, where he developed a deep connection with nature, to his academic pursuits in botany and biogeochemistry. He discusses his transition from working on farms and in various industries to pursuing higher education, where he focused on the ecological interactions between morel mushrooms and their environments, leading to his current research endeavors in fungi and soil chemistry.

Tyler elaborates on his research, particularly the complexities of finding and identifying morel mushrooms, which involves understanding various environmental parameters like soil composition, moisture levels, and specific tree associations. He highlights the importance of integrating different scientific disciplines, such as atmospheric and water chemistry, to fully comprehend the intricate relationships within ecosystems. His work also touches on the challenges of genetic identification in mycology, where traditional methods often fall short, necessitating molecular genetic analysis for accurate species identification.

The discussion also delves into the broader implications of Tyler's research, including the health benefits and potential toxicity of fungi, the role of soil health in overall ecosystem vitality, and the profound connections between humans and nature. Tyler advocates for the importance of community and education in promoting environmental awareness and sustainability. The episode concludes with a focus on upcoming events like the Utah Funga Festival and the Mushroom Society of Utah’s annual foray, where Tyler will continue to share his knowledge and passion for mycology with the 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.

In part 2 of Dr. John’s interview with Dr. Lee Trotter, they discuss the demanding lifestyle of surgeons, highlighting the endurance and resilience required to handle the long hours and intense situations that come with the job. Dr. Trotter, a seasoned general surgeon specializing in pediatric and bariatric surgery, shares his experiences from his early days in medical training, where grueling schedules were the norm, and how this rigorous training has shaped his approach to patient care and surgery.

The conversation then shifts to the technical aspects of various types of surgeries, focusing particularly on hernias. Dr. Trotter explains the different kinds of hernias, their causes, and the importance of timely surgical intervention. He emphasizes that while some hernias, like umbilical hernias in young children, may resolve on their own, others require surgical repair to prevent complications. He also discusses the pros and cons of using mesh in hernia repairs, addressing common concerns and myths about its use.

Finally, Dr. Trotter reflects on the personal sacrifices that come with a career in surgery, particularly the impact on family life. He candidly shares how his dedication to medicine often meant missing important moments in his children’s lives, and how this has influenced his perspective as a surgeon and a father. The episode concludes with Dr. Trotter offering practical advice on managing common surgical conditions and the importance of early intervention to ensure the best outcomes.

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 visits with Matt Quackenbush, a licensed clinician and trauma therapist with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. Matt discusses his journey into the mental health profession, where he has developed a comprehensive and holistic approach to treating trauma, particularly among first responders, veterans, and individuals with substance abuse issues. He emphasizes the importance of addressing not just mental health but overall human health, incorporating non-traditional interventions like exercise and sleep wellness into his therapy practices.


Matt explains that trauma is often rooted in childhood experiences and can profoundly affect an individual's mental and physical health. He shares insights from his PhD research, which focuses on the gaps in care for first responders and veterans, highlighting the critical role of sleep and trauma-informed care. Matt also discusses effective therapeutic modalities, such as Internal Family Systems and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and the significance of understanding the client's background and specific needs to provide the most effective treatment.


The conversation also touches on the challenges of finding the right therapy and the importance of not ruminating in therapy but instead using body-based interventions to address trauma. Matt emphasizes the need for therapists to be well-trained in specific modalities and for clients to be proactive in their therapy, seeking out methods that resonate with their individual experiences. The episode concludes with a discussion on the integration of mind and body in therapy, the benefits of cold exposure, and the significance of connecting with nature for overall wellness.

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. John interviews his wife, Shaunna Sanders, who has a JD/MBA from BYU. Shaunna shares her experience as a mother of four children, ranging from ages 14 to 21, and how she has navigated modern life and raised her children to be healthy. Shaunna and Dr. John reflect on their personal experiences with the healthcare system, including a story about their daughter’s trachea issue and the challenges of managing healthcare for a newborn while John was in medical school.

Dr. John elaborates on the role and training of family physicians, emphasizing their versatility and comprehensive approach to patient care. He describes the rigorous training family doctors undergo, which includes emergency medicine, internal medicine, and various subspecialties. Dr. John highlights the importance of family physicians in providing continuous care, advocating for patients, and managing both urgent and chronic health conditions. He contrasts the care provided by family doctors with that of urgent care facilities, pointing out the benefits of having a doctor who knows the patient's history and can offer more personalized care.

The discussion also touches on the financial aspects of healthcare, with Shaunna sharing her frustrations about the opaque billing practices she encountered when paying for her child's surgery. Dr. John explains how patients can advocate for themselves to get fair pricing, particularly when paying out of pocket. They also discuss the importance of holistic care, with Dr. John giving examples of how he approaches patient care by considering all aspects of a patient's health, including diet, sleep, and physical activity. The podcast emphasizes the value of having a family doctor who not only provides medical care but also supports and advocates for patients in navigating the complex healthcare system.

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, Dr. John hosts two guests, Jacob Heninger and Brigette Morales. Jacob, a recent graduate from BYU with a degree in Spanish, focuses on medical interpretation and is applying to medical school. Brigette, originally from Switzerland, shares her journey of learning multiple languages, including German, Dutch, and Spanish, which has enriched her personal and professional life. She emphasizes the importance of teaching foreign languages in schools to foster cultural understanding and tolerance.

The discussion explores the role of interpreters in medical settings, highlighting the necessity for trained professionals to ensure effective communication and patient autonomy. Both guests reflect on the impact of learning languages on reducing biases and improving cross-cultural interactions. They also touch on the importance of self-care for maintaining mental clarity and minimizing biases, particularly in high-stress professions like medicine. The conversation underscores the value of cultural sensitivity and empathy in building strong, trust-based relationships in both personal and professional contexts.

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 Podcast, Dr. John Sanders hosts Craig LaMont, a marriage and family therapist with extensive experience in both therapy and business management. Craig is passionate about creating and building, not only in his professional endeavors but also in his volunteer work, particularly in coaching youth sports. He emphasizes the value of wrestling as a sport that teaches grit and resilience, drawing parallels between the discipline required in sports and the challenges faced in therapy and life.

Craig and Dr. Sanders discuss the importance of embracing challenges and the pain that comes with growth and progress. They highlight the cultural shift towards avoiding discomfort and the impact of technology and social media on this mindset. Craig stresses the necessity for parents to allow their children to experience and overcome difficulties to build character and resilience. He also underscores the significance of adults challenging themselves to develop their own grit, noting that personal growth requires continuous mental and physical challenges. The conversation concludes with reflections on the importance of balancing technology use and fostering real-world experiences to maintain mental health and overall 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.

In this episode of the Voyage Podcast, Dr. John Sanders hosts Richard Trippe, a certified sex therapist from Rocky Top Mental Health, to discuss various aspects of sexual health and education. They delve into common sexual dysfunctions and the impact of pornography on adolescents, emphasizing that pornography often provides unrealistic and harmful views of sex. They stress the importance of open communication between parents and children about sexuality to counteract the negative influences of online content. 

Richard highlights the need for parents to prepare themselves by understanding their own values around sexuality before discussing these topics with their children. They also explore the concept of "no to go" in religious communities, where sexual activity is highly restricted until marriage and then suddenly encouraged, often leading to confusion and shame. The discussion extends to adult relationships, focusing on how emotional connection and open communication can enhance sexual satisfaction and intimacy. They also touch on practical tips, such as using conversation starter cards to deepen emotional bonds, and the importance of understanding and respecting each partner's unique sexual needs and responses.

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.