Voyage Clinics Podcast

Dr. Lee Trotter is a board-certified general and pediatric surgeon. In this episode, Dr. John Sanders converses with Dr. Lee Trotter about various aspects of surgical care and his unique journey in medicine. Dr. Trotter, who balances his medical career with his passion for flying, shares insights from his extensive experience, including his involvement in the development of laparoscopic surgery tools. He emphasizes the importance of general surgery, which covers a broad range of procedures excluding brain, spine, and orthopedic surgeries.The discussion delves into common surgical procedures such as gallbladder removal and appendectomies.

Dr. Trotter highlights the significant rise in gallbladder issues linked to obesity and provides detailed explanations on the functioning and problems of the gallbladder. He advises against alternative treatments for gallstones, stressing that surgery is often the most effective solution. The conversation also touches on appendicitis, noting the evolving treatment options, including the use of antibiotics in specific cases. Dr. Trotter underscores the importance of timely surgical intervention to prevent complications. Additionally, he shares personal anecdotes and practical advice on preventing common pediatric emergencies, such as accidental ingestion of button batteries and falls from windows.

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 interviews Steve Pincock, a certified athletic trainer and strength and conditioning coach with over 35 years of experience, including stints at major universities and in the NFL. Pincock shares insights from his extensive career, emphasizing the importance of diverse athletic participation to prevent overuse injuries and mental burnout. He discusses how early specialization in a single sport can lead to both physical and mental issues and dysfunctions, advocating for young athletes to engage in multiple sports to develop a broader skill set and avoid repetitive strain injuries.

Pincock also addresses common misconceptions about strength training, particularly the belief that exercises like squats are harmful. He explains proper techniques and the benefits of functional strength training, emphasizing the importance of bodyweight exercises for young athletes to build a solid foundation before moving on to heavier weights. The conversation covers the impact of modern training practices, the use of supplements, and the importance of balanced nutrition and recovery methods. Pincock provides practical advice on dynamic stretching, recovery strategies, and the responsible use of supplements to enhance performance without compromising long-term health.

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 speaks with Mark Mauzy about the lost art of friendship and the profound impact of social media on our connections. They discuss the importance and art of friendship, particularly in the context of the social disconnection exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Sanders shares a touching story about his father and his father’s close friendship with a 90-year-old Marine, emphasizing how meaningful connections can positively impact mental health. They discuss the negative consequences of social isolation on adolescents, noting a rise in teenage depression and suicidality.

Mark elaborates on the health benefits of connection and friendship, mentioning how feeling part of a group can alleviate loneliness. They highlight the significance of understanding and practicing the fundamentals of friendship, such as being a giver, avoiding scorekeeping, and fostering sincere and vulnerable connections. The conversation also touches on the adverse effects of technology and social media on genuine human interactions, advocating for deliberate efforts to cultivate deeper, more meaningful relationships. Dr. Sanders and Mark offer practical tips on maintaining and improving friendships, including making time for loved ones, showing grace, and appreciating people’s intentions.

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 medical resident, Zach Hansen, as he interviews Dr. Sanders about his journey and experiences in family medicine. Initially from Utah, Zach moved east for his medical training and residency, eventually settling in Pennsylvania, a region known for its Amish communities. His professional path is influenced significantly by his desire to maintain a close and personal connection with his patients, reminiscent of the traditional, community-based family doctor. This commitment to relationship-driven care led him to explore the direct primary care (DPC) model, which prioritizes patient access and reduces dependence on insurance-based models, and put him in touch with Dr. Sanders at the Voyage Clinic.

As the episode proceeds, Zach and Dr. Sanders discuss the benefits of DPC, noting its potential for better patient-doctor relationships and more sustainable health care practices. Dr. Sanders reflects on the challenges and rewards of medical practice away from conventional insurance-based models, emphasizing the personal satisfaction that comes from delivering thorough, unhurried care. The conversation also delves into his personal motivations and future aspirations within the field of family medicine, highlighting his dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of his patients while navigating the financial and professional pressures of modern healthcare.

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 sits down with Derek Fairbanks and Eric Cheney, his two medical assistants who are both headed to medical school in the next year. The trio discusses placebo, the power of belief, and snake oil. They describe how medical research is performed, what different types of studies require, and what conclusions can be drawn from a study depending on its type and how it was performed.

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 tackles the pervasive issue of musculoskeletal problems caused by our increasingly sedentary and forward-leaning lifestyles, emphasizing the negative impact this posture has on our back, neck, and overall musculoskeletal health, leading to chronic pain and other complications. Dr. Sanders shares invaluable advice to combating this pain through regular stretching, specifically of the pectoral muscles, and strengthening the posterior chain, including the upper back and neck. He introduces practical exercises such as chin tucks and shoulder stretches and recommends various pull exercises to balance out the commonly overworked front muscles of the body. The podcast also covers the importance of addressing weaknesses in specific muscle groups like the Vastus Medialis and adductors to avoid knee pain and other lower body issues.

Dr. Sanders not only sheds light on common ailments like tendonitis and tendinosis resulting from neglect and improper exercise but also shares his personal journey of recovery from knee problems through dedicated strengthening routines. He stresses the importance of maintaining muscle mass and strength as we age to prevent injuries and improve overall health and provides tips on building muscle effectively through consistency and going to failure during workouts. This episode serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of musculoskeletal health and offers listeners a roadmap to a more balanced, pain-free body.

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. Sanders is joined by endocrinologist Dr. Ali Reza Falahati to tackle the urgent public health issues of obesity and metabolic syndrome. As they delve into the complexities of type 2 diabetes, they shed light on the critical roles that diet, lifestyle, and genetics play in the health of individuals and communities.

After introducing Dr. Falahati, the conversation begins by examining the environmental and technological changes contributing to decreased physical activity and poor nutritional choices, highlighting the pervasive influence of high fructose corn syrup and other addictive additives in our food supply. Drs. Sanders and Falahati critique the modern food industry's role in perpetuating unhealthy eating habits and explore actionable strategies for individuals to navigate the supermarket jungle more healthfully. They emphasize the importance of whole foods, the dangers of sedentary lifestyles, and the deceptive nature of "health foods" that are actually loaded with sugars and unhealthy fats.

Making lifestyle changes can be challenging amidst busy schedules and the cultural entrenchment of unhealthy eating habits. Both doctors advocate for a shift in societal attitudes towards food, comparing the current food epidemic to the historical battle against smoking. The podcast wraps up with practical advice for managing pre-diabetes and diabetes, including the potential of medical interventions like GLP-1 analogs, and the transformative power of dietary and lifestyle modifications. The discussion is a compelling call to action for individuals to take control of their health and for society to reconsider its relationship with food, with the ultimate goal of fostering a healthier, more informed population.

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 Sanders expands the conversation beyond common colds and flu, shedding light on severe viral threats such as encephalitis and meningitis, which can have devastating consequences if left untreated. He shares a particularly alarming case of a patient with adenovirus and rhinovirus who developed a rare complication called MoGAD, highlighting the unpredictable nature of viruses and the importance of prompt medical attention. The discussion further delves into the nuances of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in infants, illustrating how common viruses can pose serious risks to the very young, and emphasizes the critical signs of respiratory distress that should never be ignored.

The episode also explores a variety of skin-related viral infections, from the widespread HPV affecting both genders to the discomfort of shingles and its dermatomal rash patterns. Dr. Sanders provides an insightful overview of conditions like molluscum contagiosum and various forms of warts, offering practical advice for identification and treatment. He advocates for the importance of vaccination against HPV to prevent cervical cancer and underscores the necessity of quick treatment for shingles. Throughout the episode, Dr. Sanders emphasizes the value of having accessible medical advice, especially in a landscape cluttered with insurance and healthcare uncertainties. This podcast serves not only as an educational tool but also as a guide for recognizing when to seek medical help, aiming to empower listeners with knowledge and reduce undue fear surrounding viral infections.

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 Dr. John Sanders and psychiatrist Dr. Brian Nyberg as they discuss the complex landscape of mental wellness. Dr. Nyberg sheds light on the importance of addressing the emotional and spiritual aspects of healthcare and offers some critiques on the limitations of the current medical model. Delving into topics such as resilience, neuroplasticity, and holistic approaches to mental health, they explore practical strategies for promoting emotional well-being, including exercise, gratitude practices, and nature immersion. 

With a focus on innovative therapies like Ketamine and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), the podcast offers valuable insights into cutting-edge treatments for psychiatric conditions, emphasizing the need for individualized care and ongoing collaboration between patients and healthcare providers. Join the conversation and discover pathways to lasting mental wellness in an ever-evolving healthcare landscape.

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 solo episode of the Voyage Clinics Podcast, Dr. John Sanders delves into the persistent issue of viral illnesses he’s seen surging after COVID. Addressing the array of symptoms and various viruses responsible, he emphasizes the natural diversity of immune responses among people, contributing to varying degrees of illness from the same virus, and discusses common viral symptoms, including respiratory issues, muscle aches, and gastrointestinal distress. Here you’ll find practical advice on over-the-counter remedies and supplements that can aid in recovery, and Dr. Sanders takes care to underscore the importance of proper dosages and timing.

As the episode progresses, Dr. Sanders touches on the concept of opportunistic bacterial infections following viral illnesses and how to distinguish between the two. He offers guidance on when to seek medical attention for persisting symptoms, especially for infections of the sinuses, ears, and lungs, and stresses the importance of continued movement and exercise to boost the immune system during recovery. Throughout the podcast, he maintains a focus on education and reassurance, aiming to reduce fear and misunderstanding surrounding viral illnesses and advocating for a balanced approach to health and immunity.

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.