The Health Exchange

Episode 49 of The Health Exchange Podcast breaks down the childhood vaccine schedule with pediatrician Dr. Lori Livingston, who explains what each shot protects against, why the timing matters, and how vaccines prevent not just illness but hospitalizations and long-term complications. Dr. Livingston walks listeners through the early series (hepatitis B, DTaP, polio, Hib, pneumococcal, rotavirus), the important one-year and preteen boosters (MMR, varicella, Tdap, meningococcal, HPV), and respiratory protections parents should watch for each season — including influenza, COVID-19, and the new RSV tools (maternal vaccination and infant monoclonal antibodies). The conversation balances science with real-world examples — from rotavirus wards clea...

Episode 48 of The Health Exchange Podcast features an intimate and powerful conversation with Patty Jo, who shares her journey as a single mother navigating career pressures, personal challenges, and the realities of raising two sons through adversity. The episode traces her path from an unconventional childhood overseas to parenting amid instability, addiction, ADHD, and the pursuit of law school, all while relying on extended family during medical and emotional crises. Through humorous memories, difficult truths, and hard-won lessons, the conversation highlights how love, structure, and determination shaped her family’s trajectory and the men her sons ultimately became.

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Episode 47 of The Health Exchange Podcast tells the extraordinary story of Dr. Gary Gibbon, a pulmonologist who became a patient himself through a landmark dual lung and liver transplant. Dr. Rutland speaks with him about the unique challenges of transitioning from doctor to patient, how vulnerability reshaped his perspective on care, and the lessons he learned from the transplant team that treated him like family. The conversation also explores how Dr. Gibbon’s own medical knowledge allowed him to recognize his symptoms early, guiding him to seek care that ultimately led to his life-saving dual transplant. The episode explores re...

#sponsored #sanofi_partner Episode 46 of The Health Exchange Podcast dives into type 1 diabetes (T1D) and the challenges inherent in shared decision-making about risk assessment and screening. This discussion with Robin Arzón—who was diagnosed in her 30s—explores strategies for fostering awareness and timely action, breaks down the potential misconceptions that could be swirling, and highlights why early screening and early understanding is important. Dr. Rutland and Robin unpack why a T1D diagnosis doesn't have to start with symptoms and discuss @TZIELD (teplizumab-mzwv), a prescription medication that can delay the onset of Stage 3 T1D in patie...

Episode 45 of The Health Exchange Podcast looks at resilience, recovery, and the evolving science of orthopedic care with guest Dr. Steve Mora, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and sports-medicine specialist. Dr. Rutland and Dr. Mora dig into how modern orthopedics blends mechanics with biology — from PRP, stem-cell and fat-based therapies to peptides and tailored anesthesia — and why metabolic health, sleep, and movement matter as much as the scalpel. Drawing on stories from UFC fighters to an Olympic athlete he helped return to gold, the conversation balances high-level sports medicine with everyday guidance for anyone facing pain or injury: prevention, realistic reco...

Episode 44 of The Health Exchange Podcast dives deep into the science and emotion behind fertility with guest Dr. Sasha Hackman, a reproductive endocrinologist who blends expertise with lived experience. From the realities of IVF and egg freezing to the myths that cloud public understanding, Dr. Hackman explains how hormones, sleep, and stress intertwine with fertility outcomes and why personalized care matters more than one-size-fits-all advice. She opens up about her own infertility journey, offering rare insight into the emotional toll, resilience, and empathy that shape her work today. This conversation shines a light on the complex, deeply human side...

Episode 43 of The Health Exchange Podcast features Dr. Cameron Chesnut who takes listeners inside the world of advanced facial plastic and regenerative medicine. Dr. Rutland and Dr. Chesnut discuss the intersection of art and science in aesthetic procedures, exploring topics from eyelid surgery and facial volume restoration to the role of stem-cell rich fat transfers, peptides, and hyperbaric oxygen in optimizing healing. The conversation highlights how personalized treatment, patient education, and cutting-edge science come together to create natural, long-lasting results. Beyond the technical aspects, Dr. Chesnut shares his philosophy on patient care, including the importance of realistic expectations, emotional...

Pulmonology critical care physician, Dr. Chase Hall, joins our host, Dr. Jamie Rutland, to talk about lung imaging and how it shapes the future of lung disease.

Important Safety Information Indication XENOVIEW®, prepared from the Xenon Xe 129 Gas Blend, is a hyperpolarized contrast agent indicated for use with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for evaluation of lung ventilation in adults and pediatric patients aged 6 years and older. Limitations of Use XENOVIEW has not been evaluated for use with lung perfusion imaging. CONTRAINDICATIONS None. WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Risk of Decreased Image Quality from Supplemental Oxygen: Supplemental oxygen administered simultaneously w...

Episode 41 of The Health Exchange Podcast features Dr. Sydney Pokard, who shares an inside look at veterinary medicine — from intricate surgeries on small animals to caring for exotic pets. She shares memorable stories of hamsters, guinea pigs, lions and zebras, highlighting moments that exemplify why she loves her job. Dr. Pokard explains the “One Health” approach, showing how diseases can transfer between animals and humans, and the importance of PPE and preventative care. She also addresses common misconceptions about animal health, husbandry mistakes among pet owners, and the mental health challenges veterinarians face. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of the...

Episode 40 of The Health Exchange Podcast takes a deep dive into sports cardiology with guest Dr. Merije Chukumerije, a board-certified cardiologist who works with elite athletes. Dr. Rutland and Dr. Chukumerije break down the difference between a heart attack and sudden cardiac arrest, why some conditions go undetected until tragedy strikes, and what parents and coaches should watch for in young athletes. They explore how factors like infections, genetics, and performance supplements can affect the heart, and why honest conversations and individualized care are key to keeping athletes safe. The episode also highlights the evolving approach to return-to-play decisions...

Episode 39 of The Health Exchange Podcast takes listeners inside the world of pediatric nephrology with guest Dr. Cristina Farkas-Skiles, a specialist who cares for children with kidney conditions. She and Dr. Rutland discuss what families can expect during a first nephrology visit, how testing and treatment plans are explained in child-friendly ways, and why building trust with parents is just as important as caring for the patient. The episode covers complex topics like kidney biopsies, dialysis, and transplant risks while grounding them in practical advice about diet, blood pressure control, and long-term outlook. Dr. Farkas-Skiles also shares a moving...

Episode 38 of The Health Exchange Podcast takes a deep dive into how skin disease sits at the crossroads of medicine, identity, and daily life. Dr. Rutland and Dr. Helia Eragi, Dermatologist, discuss the common conditions patients bring to clinic—from eczema and acne to psoriasis and rosacea—and explain why the right care often requires looking beyond symptoms to triggers and mental health. Rather than treating skin issues as purely cosmetic, the conversation walks through how clinicians decide between topical therapies, systemic medications and newer biologics, how to separate hype from evidence in the crowded skincare marketplace, and practical step...

Episode 37 of The Health Exchange Podcast features Olympian Shae Anderson, a world-class sprinter whose journey has been shaped by resilience, family, and a lifelong battle with asthma. Dr. Rutland speaks with her about the sacrifices and struggles behind making the U.S. Olympic team, from training through the pandemic and competing alongside track legends to coping with her father’s illness during trials. Shae opens up about the unique challenges of being coached by her dad, the delicate balance between athletics and family health, and what it means to carve out her own path with new coaches and teammates. Mo...

Episode 36 of The Health Exchange Podcast features Rene Roberts-Nijinsky, an advocate, athlete, and retired educator living with cerebral palsy who has turned her challenges into resilience and purpose. In conversation with Dr. Rutland, Rene reflects on her experiences with major surgeries, the realities of growing up with a disability, and the discrimination and silence she faced even within her own home. She shares how finding safe spaces, forgiving but not forgetting, and choosing a path of strength helped her build a full life. From dragon boat racing to completing 16 triathlons, Rene shows what it means to embrace possibility, speak...

Episode 35 of The Health Exchange Podcast dives into the world of plastic and reconstructive surgery with Dr. Josh Waltzman, a board-certified plastic surgeon. Dr. Rutland speaks with him about how modern plastic surgery is often misunderstood, highlighting the balance between cosmetic goals and life-changing reconstructive procedures. They explore the impact of body image, the emotional side of patient care, and how surgery can both restore confidence and improve overall health. The discussion also covers how advances in surgical techniques have broadened the field, the importance of managing patient expectations, and why authenticity and compassion are essential in building trust...

Episode 34 of The Health Exchange Podcast offers a behind-the-scenes look at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) with guest Tori Meskin, MSN RNC-NIC. Dr. Rutland and Tori explore the specialized care premature and critically ill newborns require, from life-saving interventions to the emotional realities of working with families during their most vulnerable moments. They discuss how NICU nurses balance advanced medical skills with compassionate communication, the evolving technologies improving survival rates, and the teamwork essential to navigating complex cases. The conversation also sheds light on common misconceptions about the NICU, the importance of parental involvement in care, and the...

Episode 33 of The Health Exchange Podcast dives into the realities of parenting from the perspective of both a physician and a parent, with guest Dr. Lori Livingston, a pediatrician who blends medical expertise with personal experience. She and Dr. Rutland discuss common challenges parents face—including sleep deprivation, breastfeeding struggles, and managing children’s behavior—and why empathy is just as important as clinical advice. The conversation covers practical strategies for sleep training, navigating parental guilt, building a supportive “village,” and reframing discipline as an opportunity to teach rather than punish. Drawing on her own journey and favorite parenting resources...

Episode 32 of The Health Exchange Podcast explores the world of physical therapy with Dr. Tony Dang, a PT and movement specialist who’s changing how people think about pain, healing, and mobility. He joins Dr. Rutland to break down what makes good physical therapy truly effective—beyond just stretching and strength work. They talk through common misconceptions, what recovery can and should feel like, and why building trust with patients is often just as crucial as the physical treatment itself. This episode reframes physical therapy as a dynamic, individualized process that helps people take control of their health and stay...

Episode 31 of The Health Exchange Podcast addresses the intersection of medicine and humanitarian crisis through the eyes of physicians Dr. Ahlia Kattan and Dr. Sameer Khan. Drawing on their experience in Gaza treating civilians amidst war, they talk with Dr. Rutland about the physical and psychological toll of displacement, the ethics of care during conflict, and the long road to recovery after trauma. This powerful conversation sheds light on what it means to be a doctor in a crisis—how to maintain compassion under pressure and when medicine becomes advocacy. This episode is an emotional look at global health th...

Episode 30 of The Health Exchange Podcast spotlights chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a condition that affects millions but is still widely misunderstood. Guest Mr. Tom Gill, a long time COPD patient and advocate, joins Dr. Rutland to unpack what makes this disease so complex to manage and why early diagnosis often slips through the cracks. They talk through key lifestyle changes, how pulmonary rehab actually works, and the importance of breaking down stigma for patients who feel blamed for their condition. Whether you're a caregiver, clinician, or someone living with COPD, this episode offers a grounded and human look...

Episode 29 of The Health Exchange Podcast tackles the myths and realities of digestive health with gastroenterologist Dr. Kumkum Patel. From irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) to inflammatory bowel disease, celiac, and motility issues, Dr. Patel breaks down what’s actually going on when your gut isn’t working right—and why so many of these conditions get overlooked or misdiagnosed. She and Dr. Rutland explore how gut health connects to mood, immunity, and even hormones, while unpacking buzzy terms like “leaky gut” and “probiotics” with clarity and nuance. Whether you’re managing chronic symptoms or simply trying to understand your digestion, this...

Episode 28 of The Health Exchange Podcast brings together returning guest Dr. Richard Paicius and Dr. Jen Armstrong—an expert in pain and regenerative medicine, and a Real Housewives of Orange County alum known for her work in aesthetic care—to explore how innovative treatments are reshaping how we think about aging. From joint pain to facial symmetry, Dr. Rutland leads a wide-ranging conversation on regenerative strategies, patient trust, and how inflammation plays a critical role in both chronic pain and skin health. Midway through the episode, Dr. Armstrong receives a live injection, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how these proc...

Episode 27 of The Health Exchange Podcast explores the realities of launching and running a private medical practice with returning guest Dr. Jihan Ansari. Drawing from her experience founding Harbor Direct Primary Care, Dr. Ansari opens up about the fears, logistics, and personal sacrifices that come with leaving the corporate model behind. She and Dr. Rutland unpack the differences between U.S. and Canadian healthcare systems, discuss burnout versus fulfillment, and explain why medical training rarely prepares doctors to be entrepreneurs. From credentialing delays to social media marketing and chasing insurance claims, this episode offers an honest look at the...

Episode 26 of The Health Exchange Podcast dives into ADHD and teenage mental health with psychiatrist Dr. Sayeh Beheshti. The discussion explores early signs parents should watch for and how to navigate challenges like screen time and social pressure. It also covers how ADHD often gets missed—especially in girls—and why early understanding can change lives. Dr. Rutland and Dr. Beheshti unpack why diagnosis doesn’t always mean medication and share non-pharmacological strategies that can make a difference. With warmth and clarity, this episode emphasizes the power of presence, patience, and communication when supporting kids through a critical phase of lif...

Episode 25 of The Health Exchange Podcast dives into the fast-moving world of stroke care with returning guest Cris Medina, a family nurse practitioner. He and Dr. Rutland break down the urgency behind early intervention and explain how each decision—from symptom recognition to treatment—can impact a patient’s outcome. The conversation touches on the evolving role of technology in stroke detection and why public education around symptoms still lags behind. Cris closes the episode by sharing a personal story from the ER that illustrates the emotional weight—and life-saving potential—of this work.

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Episode 24 of The Health Exchange Podcast pulls back the curtain on often overlooked blood disorders—with guest Dr. Joomee Shim. From iron deficiency anemia to sickle cell disease, Dr. Shim explains how tiny changes in our blood can have major health consequences. She and Dr. Rutland also explore diagnostic blind spots, racial disparities in funding and treatment, and what everyday lab tests can reveal when read correctly. This episode is a deep dive into a field where proper interpretation, early action, and the right care plan can change someone’s life.

Sponsored by Sanofi; Sanofi and Regeneron thro...

Episode 23 of The Health Exchange Podcast offers a personal, unfiltered look into what it’s really like to be married to a doctor. Guest host Dorey Rutland joins her husband, Dr. Jamie Rutland, for a candid conversation with clinical psychologist Dr. Nicole Johnson-Nguyen about partnership, parenting, grief, and emotional labor. From navigating long hours and shifting roles to building a life and a business together, they reflect on the pressures that can strain relationships—and the communication tools that help strengthen them. This episode is an honest exploration of love, loss, and the daily work it takes to stay conn...

Episode 22 of The Health Exchange Podcast explores the complex and deeply personal topic of depression and anxiety with guest Dr. Jihan Ansari, a family medicine physician who integrates mental health into everyday care. Dr. Rutland speaks with her about how these conditions show up differently in each patient and why early intervention can be so difficult to achieve. The conversation moves beyond surface-level symptoms to examine how factors like childhood trauma, hormone shifts, and even chronic inflammation can shape mental health. Rather than focusing solely on medication, the episode highlights the value of personalized treatment, honest conversations, and removing...

Episode 21 of The Health Exchange Podcast takes on pediatric asthma with two leading voices in children’s lung health: Dr. Sande Okelo and Dr. Lori Livingston. Dr. Rutland and his guests dig into the science behind asthma in kids—how it develops, why it’s often misdiagnosed or under-treated, and what both doctors and parents can do to better manage it. They discuss the role of pollution, health disparities, and parent education, while also walking through real-world tools like spacers, biologics, and asthma control questionnaires. This episode is packed with practical advice for any parent or clinician trying to help c...

Episode 20 of The Health Exchange Podcast tackles vaccine hesitancy and public trust with Dr. Anissa Davis, City Health Officer for Long Beach. Dr. Rutland and guest co-host Cris Medina explore how public health leaders can build confidence in vaccines by addressing community concerns with transparency, science, and real-world solutions. Dr. Davis shares her boots-on-the-ground strategies during the COVID-19 pandemic, including door-to-door outreach and partnerships with local organizations. The conversation also delves into vaccine myths, rising measles outbreaks, and how historical mistrust continues to shape health decisions in underserved communities.

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Episode 19 of The Health Exchange Podcast examines the complexity of chronic pain and how it’s being approached differently in today’s medical landscape. Dr. Richard Paicius joins Dr. Rutland to reflect on the evolution of pain care, from outdated strategies to more personalized solutions that prioritize long-term outcomes. They also discuss breakthroughs in ketamine therapy for depression and the role of clinical research in moving pain medicine forward. This episode offers a forward-looking perspective on pain care, blending science, patient experience, and clinical innovation.

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Episode 18 of The Health Exchange Podcast confronts health inequities head-on with guest Amanda “Mandy” Ralston, founder and CEO of NonBinary Solutions. Dr. Rutland and Amanda explore how outdated systems, implicit bias, and social determinants of health prevent many Americans—particularly autistic, LGBTQ+, and minority patients—from receiving equitable care. The conversation spans everything from misdiagnoses in marginalized communities to the challenges of cultural competency in medicine. They also examine how telehealth, big data, and more representative provider networks could create a more inclusive healthcare system. This episode is a candid and solution-focused look at why real change requires nuance, empathy...

Episode 17 of The Health Exchange Podcast shares the powerful story of Russell Redwood, a former athlete diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy and heart failure in his early 20s. Joined by Dr. Danielle Belardo, Dr. Rutland explores the symptoms Russell experienced, the obstacles he faced getting properly diagnosed, and how he eventually landed in cardiogenic shock. They discuss the lifesaving role of left ventricular assist devices (LVADs), the path to heart transplantation, and how technology and early advocacy saved Russell’s life. This episode highlights the importance of listening to your body, pushing for proper care, and staying hopeful through even th...

Episode 16 of The Health Exchange Podcast dives deep into the world of women’s sexual health with guest Dr. Kendra Segura, a practicing OB-GYN and the voice behind “Ask Dr. Kendra.” From sexual dysfunction and the mind-body connection to patient shame and communication barriers, Dr. Segura explains why open conversations about pleasure and anatomy are essential to healthcare. She and Dr. Rutland unpack the impact of hormones, birth control, and relationship dynamics on sexual wellness. Dr. Kendra’s empowering approach to care reminds listeners that understanding your body is the first step to advocating for it.

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Episode 15 of The Health Exchange Podcast breaks down the widespread but often misunderstood condition of sleep apnea with guest co-host Dr. Danielle Belardo, a preventive cardiologist. Together, she and Dr. Rutland explore how untreated sleep apnea is tied to heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure. The episode covers the science behind sleep apnea, treatment options like CPAP, and lifestyle changes you could consider. The conversation ends with a clear message: better sleep isn’t just possible—it could be life-saving.

Disclaimer: The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or trea...

Episode 14 of The Health Exchange Podcast delves into the complexities of postpartum depression, shedding light on its emotional, physical, and psychological impact on new mothers. Dr. Rutland is joined by experts who explore the signs, risk factors, and challenges of diagnosing and treating postpartum depression. They discuss the societal pressures surrounding motherhood, the importance of mental health support, and how families and healthcare providers can offer meaningful assistance. This episode provides an essential conversation on breaking the stigma and ensuring that mothers receive the care they need during this critical period.

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Episode 13 of The Health Exchange Podcast explores the profound and often overlooked conversations around death, featuring insights from those who have faced mortality head-on. Dr. Rutland and Lisa Pahl, co-creator of The Death Deck, discuss the medical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of preparing for the end of life. They address common fears and highlight the importance of open discussions with loved ones. This episode offers a compelling perspective on how embracing the inevitability of death can lead to a more meaningful life.

Disclaimer: The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical...

Episode 12 of The Health Exchange Podcast tells the remarkable story of Matison Deaton, a cystic fibrosis patient who overcame years of medical rejections to receive a double lung and kidney transplant. She shares the challenges of navigating the transplant system and how persistence ultimately saved her life. Dr. Rutland and Savannah break down the science behind cystic fibrosis and how new treatments are transforming patient outcomes. Madison opens up about the emotional toll of waiting for a donor, the moment she finally got the call, and what life is like with new organs. This episode is a powerful reminder...

Episode 11 of The Health Exchange Podcast takes a deep dive into the fast-paced world of urgent care with guest Dr. Rob Drummond, an urgent care physician with years of frontline experience. The conversation explores the differences between urgent care, primary care, and emergency rooms, helping listeners understand where to go for different medical issues. Dr. Drummond shares wild patient stories, including a man who was furious about being diagnosed with a stroke—because he didn’t want to pay the hospital bill. And the hosts tackle burnout in healthcare, the overwhelming patient load during the pandemic, and how frontline prov...

Episode 10 of The Health Exchange Podcast explores the often-overlooked emotional and mental toll of cancer with guest Nancy Lomibao, the Chief Clinical Officer at Cancer Support Community South Bay. While cancer treatment traditionally focuses on surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, Nancy emphasizes the critical role of psychosocial support for both patients and their families. She shares how support groups, counseling, and lifestyle interventions can help improve emotional resilience and even physical outcomes. Dr. Rutland and Savannah discuss the unique challenges of caregivers, the impact of cancer on younger patients, and how stigma around mental health often prevents people from seeking...