What the Health is Happening? with Dr. V

40 Episodes
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By: TopHealth Media

Every week, people call Dr. V with the same underlying question: What is going on?As an experienced emergency physician with 30 years of experience and healthcare leader, Dr. Valda Crowder has spent her career helping patients think clearly in high-stress moments. Now, she brings that same calm, evidence-based guidance to you.Whether you're navigating aging, raising children, managing chronic conditions, considering surgery, or trying to understand confusing medical advice, Dr. V helps you cut through the noise.No hype.No panic.Just practical, physician-led clarity.

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What Really Happens During an Asthma Attack
#54
Yesterday at 11:00 PM

Welcome back to "What The Health Is Happening? With Dr. V." In today’s episode, Dr. Valda Crowder dives into the world of asthma, an often misunderstood but potentially deadly chronic disease that affects millions of Americans. Despite its prevalence, asthma still sends hundreds of thousands to the ER every year and claims lives, with many patients struggling to manage it correctly.

This episode covers what actually happens inside the lungs during an asthma attack, the difference between a manageable flare-up and a true emergency, and why asthma looks so different from one person to the next. Dr...


Why Your Brain Keeps Saying One More Bet
#53
09/03/2026

Welcome to "What The Health Is Happening? With Dr. V." In this episode, board-certified emergency medicine physician Dr. Valda Crowder dives into a crisis that's often hidden in plain sight: gambling addiction. With alarming stories in the news about insider trading, betting on confidential information, and the rise of sports betting and online gambling, Dr. V reframes what many see as a criminal justice issue as a serious public health concern. She explains the science behind gambling disorder, classified as a behavioral addiction, and breaks down its warning signs, impact on the brain, and devastating consequences, from financial ruin...


How Chronic Stress Quietly Damages Health and Ways to Cope
#52
08/28/2026

The conversation focused on the hidden epidemic of chronic stress and its profound effects on health, both physically and mentally. A key theme that emerged was the distinction between normal, short-lived stress and chronic stress that lingers for months or even years, often becoming an unnoticed "new normal" in people’s lives. The discussion explored the biological impacts of persistent elevated cortisol, including increased risk for anxiety, depression, metabolic disorders, heart disease, and even accelerated biological aging. Several points were raised, including practical strategies for managing chronic stress, the importance of community and faith-based support, the unique burden women fa...


Recognizing the Early Signs of Cognitive Decline
#51
08/20/2026

Welcome to "What The Health Is Happening? With Dr. V," where your host, Dr. Valda Crowder, a board-certified emergency medicine physician and passionate health advocate, dives deep into the vital issues impacting your well-being. In this episode, Dr. Valda Crowder explores a topic that touches every family: brain and cognitive health. From the everyday memory lapses we all experience to the serious early warning signs of cognitive decline and dementia, you’ll learn what’s normal, what’s not, and why recognizing the difference is so important.

With millions of Americans already affected by conditions like Alzheimer's diseas...


Beat the Heat Before It Becomes an Emergency
#50
08/10/2026

The conversation focused on the dangers of heat and how many people underestimate its impact, especially as temperatures rise in the summer. A key theme that emerged was that heat kills more people each year than any other weather event, often without dramatic warning signs. The discussion explored how heat affects the body on a cellular level, why certain groups like infants, the elderly, athletes, and outdoor workers are at greater risk, and how to recognize the critical difference between simple overheating and a true medical emergency. Several points were raised, including practical steps to take if someone is...


How Adverse Childhood Experiences Shape Your Brain, Body, and Future
#49
08/07/2026

Welcome to another episode of What The Health Is Happening? With Dr. V, where board-certified emergency room physician Dr. Valda Crowder is dedicated to empowering you with life-saving health information. Today, we delve into a deeply important and sensitive topic: How Adverse Childhood Experiences Shape Your Brain, Body, and Future.

From childhood trauma and neglect to the ripple effects that last well into adulthood, this episode explores how experiences during your earliest years profoundly shape your brain, body, and even your DNA. Drawing from landmark studies and the latest science, Dr. V uncovers the hidden toll ACEs...


When Half Your Face Stops Working: Bell's Palsy Early Treatment and Recovery
#48
07/31/2026

Welcome to another episode of What The Health Is Happening?, hosted by board-certified emergency physician Dr. Valda Crowder aka Dr. V. Today’s episode shines a spotlight on Bell’s palsy, a sudden, frightening condition where part of your face stops cooperating, often leaving people worried they’re experiencing a stroke. Recently thrust into the headlines after NBA All-Star Joel Embiid’s diagnosis, Bell’s palsy sends thousands each year to emergency rooms in search of answers.

In this episode, Dr. V explains the signs, symptoms, and critical differences between Bell’s palsy and stroke and why it’s so impo...


Essential Advice on Heat Stroke and Summer Safety
#47
07/16/2026

Welcome back to What The Health Is Happening? With Dr. V. Today's conversation focused on the dangers of extreme summer heat, highlighting the record-breaking temperatures and widespread heat advisories affecting millions across the United States. One concept discussed was heat-related illness as a spectrum, from mild heat rash and cramps to the life-threatening emergency of heat stroke. A key theme that emerged was the seriousness of heat as the deadliest weather-related hazard in the U.S., surpassing hurricanes and tornadoes, with recent years seeing thousands of preventable fatalities.

The discussion explored how the body copes with excess...


Memory, Aging, and Dementia: Separating Myths, Facts, and Steps You Can Take
#46
07/08/2026

Are you worried about memory loss as you age, or are you caring for someone who's starting to show signs of cognitive decline? This episode of "What The Health Is Happening?" dives deep into what really happens to our brains as we grow older, from normal forgetfulness to more serious concerns like mild cognitive impairment and dementia. Dr. Valda Crowder breaks down the different types of memory, the signs that set normal aging apart from concerning symptoms, and the crucial early steps you can take to protect your cognitive health. We'll explore which conditions can mimic dementia but are...


Michael Jackson: Fame, Fatigue and Fatal Suggestion
#45
06/16/2026

Have you ever woken up after a medical procedure, feeling groggy and with no memory of what happened, wondering, "What exactly did they give me?" In this episode of "What the Health is Happening?" emergency physician Dr. Valda Crowder pull back the curtain on propofol, a sedative used every day in emergency rooms, operating rooms, and intensive care units across America. You might recognize its name from headlines surrounding the death of Michael Jackson, but behind the sensational stories lies a drug that, when used correctly, is one of the safest and most effective tools in modern medicine. Dr...


The Hidden Crisis of Gambling Addiction and Its Impact on Brain Health and Society
#44
06/02/2026

Welcome to "What The Health Is Happening? With Dr. V," hosted by board-certified emergency medicine physician Dr. Valda Crowder. In this powerful episode, she tackles the hidden but urgent crisis of gambling addiction. From startling national headlines involving insider trading and military operations to the devastating personal consequences faced by millions of Americans, gambling disorder is revealed not as a moral failing but as a serious brain disease. Dr. V breaks down the science behind gambling addiction, the warning signs to watch for, and the disproportionate impact on vulnerable communities, especially youth and minorities. Hear real listener stories, expert...


Understanding Panic Attacks and Anxiety Disorders: How Your Body Sounds the Alarm
#43
05/29/2026

Welcome to another episode of "What The Health Is Happening? With Dr. V," hosted by Dr. Valda Crowder, a board-certified emergency medicine physician passionate about empowering your health and wellness. In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, today's episode dives deep into a topic that touches millions: panic attacks and anxiety disorders. Whether you're struggling in silence, supporting a loved one, or curious about the signs and solutions, Dr. V breaks down the science and misconceptions surrounding anxiety, explains the difference between normal worry and clinical disorders, and offers practical advice for immediate relief and long-term management. From real...


Understanding Memory Loss and Cognitive Decline: Signs, Risk Factors, and Prevention
#42
05/18/2026

Welcome to What The Health Is Happening With Dr. V podcast, where your host - board-certified emergency medicine physician Dr. Valda Crowder - empowers listeners with life-saving information for you and your family. In today’s episode, Dr. V dives deep into brain health, exploring the crucial topics of memory, cognition, and the difference between normal aging and early signs of dementia. With personal stories, the latest facts about Alzheimer's and dementia, risk factors, and clear advice on how to protect your cognitive health, Dr. V helps decode what’s normal and when to be concerned, because early detection can...


The Lasting Impact of Childhood Trauma and How to Heal from ACEs
#41
05/12/2026

Welcome to Ehat The Health Is Happening with Dr. V, hosted by board-certified emergency room physician Dr. Valda Crowder, also known as Dr. V. In this powerful episode, we confront a topic that impacts millions but is often hidden in plain sight: childhood wounds that last a lifetime. Today, we’re diving into Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), traumatic events ranging from abuse and neglect to household dysfunction and community-level stressors like poverty and racism. Dr. V explores the profound and lasting impact these experiences can have on our health, even altering the very expression of our DNA, and shortening lif...


When Home Isn’t Safe: Addressing Domestic Violence, Suicide, and the Mental Health Crisis
#40
05/07/2026

Welcome to "What the Health is Happening?" with your host, Dr. Valda Crowder, a board-certified emergency medicine physician dedicated to sharing life-saving health information. In today’s episode, Dr. Valda Crowder confronts the difficult but crucial topics of domestic violence, suicide, and the growing mental health crisis challenges that impact families, neighborhoods, and communities, and appear all too frequently in the emergency department.

Prompted by recent tragedies, including high-profile cases of murder-suicide and devastating losses in communities, Dr. Valda Crowder explores the intersection of intimate partner violence and suicide, why these crises are public health emergencies, and ho...


GLP1s Explained: Separating Hype from Reality in Weight Loss and Health
#39
05/06/2026

In this episode of "What the Health is Happening with Dr. V," Dr. V dives deep into the world of GLP1, one of today's most talked-about topics in health and weight management. Whether you've been bombarded by headlines about Ozempic, Wegovy, and other injectables, or you're simply curious about the science behind these drugs, this episode separates fact from hype. Dr. V explores what GLP1 actually is (spoiler: your body already produces it), the crucial difference between natural production and external interventions, and why that distinction matters. The conversation also introduces natural alternatives like Calocurb, addresses concerns about compounded...


Sex Trafficking Hidden in Plain Sight: Understanding the Crisis in Our Communities
#38
04/29/2026

Welcome to the podcast, hosted by Dr. Valda Crowder , board-certified emergency medicine physician dedicated to empowering you with life-saving health information. In this episode, Dr. Valda Crowder tackles the urgent and often hidden issue of sex trafficking in plain sight. From high-profile media cases like Jeffrey Epstein and R. Kelly, to the tragic reality affecting millions, especially children and vulnerable communities, Dr. Valda Crowder breaks down what sex trafficking is, how victims are lured, and why it's a pressing public health crisis occurring all around us. You'll learn to spot the warning signs, hear real-life stories from the front...


Separating Fact from Fiction: Marijuana, CBD, and Their Impact on Health
#37
04/24/2026

Marijuana and CBD are everywhere these days, from dispensaries on every corner to gummies, drinks, and oils marketed for everything from sleep to stress relief. But as these products become increasingly normalized, what’s really happening behind the scenes in healthcare? In this episode of "What The Health Is Happening" with Dr. V, we’re joined by Dr. Valda Crowder, an emergency room physician, to break down the crucial differences between marijuana and CBD, the impact of different formats and dosages, and what she sees on the front lines. From real medical uses to risks like cognitive decline, cannabinoid hype...


Understanding Broken Heart Syndrome: What You Need to Know About Stress Induced Cardiomyopathy
#36
04/17/2026

Welcome to "What the Health is Happening?" where Dr. Valda Crowder , a board-certified emergency medicine physician, brings you life-saving health information every week. In this episode, Dr. Valda Crowder shines a light on Broken Heart Syndrome, also known as stress-induced cardiomyopathy or Takotsubu cardiomyopathy. This real and sometimes dangerous condition can occur in response to intense emotional or physical stress and is often mistaken for a heart attack. Dr. Valda Crowder explains the science behind the syndrome, discusses who is most at risk, the symptoms to watch for, and why it’s critical to seek medical attention if you ex...


Chronic Stress Unmasked: Understanding Its Impact and Strategies for Healthier Living
#35
04/09/2026

Welcome to "What the Health Is Happening?", the podcast where Dr. Valda Crowder, also known as Dr. V, is committed to empowering you with life-saving information. Dr. V is a board-certified emergency medicine physician with decades of frontline experience. In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into a silent epidemic quietly eroding the health of millions: chronic stress.

We’ll explore how chronic stress is fundamentally different from the everyday pressures we all face, unpack its widespread impact on our bodies, from raised cortisol levels and immune suppression to heart disease and mental health struggles, and discus...


Understanding GLP-1: Natural Solutions for Weight Loss Without Harsh Medications
#35
04/09/2026

Welcome to another episode of "What the Health is Happening?" with your host, Dr. V, board-certified emergency room physician. In today’s show, she dives deep into the science behind GLP-1 medications, the revolutionary treatments that have transformed the world of weight loss, but not without controversy and complications. Dr. V breaks down what GLP-1 actually is, who should consider these options, and why some people experience side effects or regain weight when stopping the medications.

You’ll also hear about the pitfalls of compounded weight loss drugs and the real-life risks some have faced. But it’s not...


Understanding What the Health is Happening: Everyday Health Questions Answered by Dr. V
#34
04/08/2026

Welcome to "What the Health is Happening?" with Dr. V! In this episode, everyday emergency physician, Dr. Valda Crowder, helps you make sense of the health questions that matter most in real life: when symptoms arise, diagnoses get confusing, and medical advice feels overwhelming.

Drawing on years of experience from the front lines of emergency medicine, Dr. V shares insights on what inspired the show, how listeners can benefit, and what to look out for across all ages. Dr. V dives deep into topics from diabetes and hypertension to the difference between urgent care, primary care, and...


Gut Health 2
#33
02/26/2026

Join Dr. Valda Crowder as she breaks down everything you need to know about your gallbladder, liver, and pancreas: what they do, what goes wrong, and how to protect them. From fatty liver disease and gallbladder attacks to pancreatitis and elevated enzymes, Dr. V answers real listener questions with the straight talk and practical advice you need to stay informed and empowered about your gut health.

Dr. Valda Crowder - https://www.askdrv.us/

Podcast Website - https://whatthehealthishappeningshow.com/

Podcast Producer - https://tophealth.care/


“Disclaimer: Infor...


Gut Health Impacts the Whole Body
#32
02/18/2026

Your gut does more than digest food—it plays a critical role in immunity, energy levels, mood, and overall wellness. In Part 1 of our Gastrointestinal Health series, we lay the foundation for understanding how your digestive system works and why gut health is essential to whole-body health.

In this episode, Dr. V explores:

The basics of gastrointestinal anatomy and functionCommon signs and symptoms of gut imbalanceHow diet, stress, medications, and lifestyle impact digestionThe gut–brain connection and its role in inflammation and disease

Whether you’re experiencing digestive concerns or simply want to optimize your health...


Psychological Safety for Consumers in Today's Climate
#31
02/11/2026

In an era of relentless news cycles, political divisiveness, and constant digital overwhelm, how do we protect our mental health while staying informed and engaged? Join Dr. Valda Crowder (Dr. V), a board-certified emergency medicine physician with 30 years of experience, as she explores the critical topic of psychological safety in today's challenging climate.

This episode tackles the phenomenon psychologists call "chronic ambient stress"—the never-ending background noise of negativity that keeps our stress response systems constantly activated. Dr. V explains what happens to our brains and bodies when we're continuously exposed to troubling headlines, why doomscrolling feels so...


Sleep Apnea and Your Health
#2
02/06/2026

Dr. V explains sleep apnea, and how it impacts overall health, increasing the risk of cardiovascular problems, type 2 diabetes, and other health issues. These effects are primarily due to the lack of oxygen and the stress hormones released in response to these pauses. 

Dr. Valda Crowder - https://www.askdrv.us/

Podcast Website - https://whatthehealthishappeningshow.com/

Podcast Producer - https://tophealth.care/


“Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. Consult your doctor for guidance.”


Why is Healthcare so Expensive?
#1
02/06/2026

Ever wonder why healthcare is so costly and if there is anything that you can do about it?  Get the inside scoop about healthcare costs, and direct answers to listener questions from Dr. V, a 30-year emergency room doc.

In this episode you'll learn more about the business of health and how you can get financial assistance when you need it.  Plus, enjoy a little laughter for your pain with Comedian Damon Williams.

Dr. Valda Crowder - https://www.askdrv.us/

Podcast Website - https://whatthehealthishappeningshow.com/

Podcast Producer - https://tophe...


"Unmasking Diabetes: From Diagnosis to Lifestyle Transition"
#6
02/06/2026

This week's episode dives deep into the world of diabetes, a silent public health challenge affecting millions of people. With insights into the various types of diabetes, we explore the critical importance of getting your hemoglobin A1c checked to prevent serious complications. Our host, Dr. V, shares valuable tips on how dietary changes and lifestyle choices can significantly impact your health and help you manage or even reverse pre-diabetic conditions. Interactive discussions with callers reveal everyday struggles and practical solutions, including understanding the glycemic index and exploring new medical advancements. Whether you're living with diabetes or seeking to...


The Moral Crisis of Healthcare in America
#30
02/05/2026

On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Dr. Valda Crowder examines Dr. King's unfinished work in healthcare equity. Drawing from his 1966 declaration that "injustice in health is the most shocking and inhumane," this episode explores how inequality, access, and systemic bias continue to shape American healthcare. Through listener calls, Dr. V addresses maternal mortality disparities, medical mistrust, geographic barriers to care, and the connection between economic and health justice in Black communities. The conversation asks: What would Dr. King challenge us to do today? Join the discussion about healthcare as a human right and the path toward true health equity.


How to Decrease Your Healthcare Costs in the Upcoming Year
#29
01/22/2026

How to Decrease Your Healthcare Costs in the Upcoming Year

Join Dr. Valda Crowder, a board-certified emergency medicine physician with 30 years of experience, as she tackles one of the most pressing issues facing Americans today: rising healthcare costs. In this episode, Dr. V answers listener questions about navigating emergency room visits, understanding hospital billing, avoiding surprise medical bills, and making smart decisions about when to seek urgent versus emergency care. She also discusses financial assistance programs for the uninsured and shares practical strategies to advocate for yourself in healthcare settings. Whether you're dealing with insurance challenges or...


Explore Careers in Medicine - Part 2
#28
01/15/2026

During a high time of job loss, and economic downturn, career opportunities in healthcare are still thriving. There is such a vast world in healthcare careers beyond being a doctor!

Dr. Valda Crowder (Dr. V) is back with part two of guiding listeners through the diverse opportunities in healthcare—from medical billing and nursing to phlebotomy, mental health therapy, and pharmaceutical sales.

Discover training requirements, salary expectations, and career paths that offer meaningful work, job security, and the chance to make a real difference. Whether you're a student, career changer, or simply curious about healthcare pr...


Your Mouth Matters: The Hidden Links Between Teeth and Total Health
#27
01/08/2026

Your mouth reveals more about your health than you think. Join Dr. Valda Crowder (Dr. V) and her dental expert guests as they explore the critical links between dental health and major health conditions like sleep apnea and more. Discover why bleeding gums aren't just a dental issue—they're a warning sign your whole body needs attention. Dr. V and guests answer listener questions about everything from oral health to warning signs you should never ignore. Whether you haven't seen a dentist in years or brush three times daily, this episode will change how you think about your dental ca...


Does the Winter Make You S.A.D.?
#26
12/31/2025

As the days grow shorter and sunlight becomes scarce, many people experience more than just the winter blues. In this episode, we explore Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)—a form of depression that follows a seasonal pattern and can significantly impact mood, energy levels, sleep, and overall well-being.

 

Join Dr. Valda Crowder aka Dr. V as she discuss:

What Seasonal Affective Disorder is and how it differs from typical seasonal mood changesCommon signs and symptoms to watch forWhy reduced sunlight affects mental healthEvidence-based strategies to manage SAD, including lifestyle changes, light therapy, and mindfulnessWhen to see...


Explore Healthcare Careers
#25
12/18/2025

Explore the vast world of healthcare careers beyond being a doctor!

Dr. Valda Crowder (Dr. V) guides listeners through the diverse opportunities in healthcare—from medical billing and nursing to phlebotomy, mental health therapy, and pharmaceutical sales.

Discover training requirements, salary expectations, and career paths that offer meaningful work, job security, and the chance to make a real difference. Whether you're a student, career changer, or simply curious about healthcare professions, this episode reveals the dozens of roles that make modern healthcare possible. Plus, health news updates on the measles outbreak and COVID vaccine warnings.

...


Holiday Health Etiquette
#24
12/11/2025

In this episode, Dr. V tackles Holiday Health Etiquette, discussing how to keep seasonal gatherings safe while navigating respiratory illnesses like flu, COVID-19, RSV, and norovirus. She covers the latest health news, answers listener questions about managing sick guests, food safety at holiday potlucks, vaccination timing, and setting healthy boundaries during the festive season. The show provides practical advice for protecting vulnerable family members while maintaining the joy of holiday celebrations.

Dr. Valda Crowder - https://www.askdrv.us/

Podcast Website - https://whatthehealthishappeningshow.com/

Podcast Producer - https://tophealth.care/


Heads Up: What You Need to Know About Brain Injuries
#23
11/13/2025

Dr. Valda Crowder (Dr. V) explores the serious issue of head trauma and traumatic brain injuries (TBI) in this essential episode. Learn about the causes of head injuries—from sports and falls to vehicle accidents—and understand the symptoms that range from mild concussions to severe, life-altering injuries. Dr. V answers listener questions about concussions in children, recovery signs to watch for in elderly patients, CTE in athletes, helmet safety, and long-term effects of childhood head injuries. Whether you're a parent, athlete, caregiver, or just want to be informed, this episode provides critical, life-saving information about protecting your brain heal...


Neuropathy Gets on My Nerves
#22
11/07/2025

Join Dr. Valda Crowder (Dr. V) for an in-depth discussion on peripheral neuropathy—a condition affecting over 35 million American adults.

Learn about the causes, symptoms, and types of nerve damage that disrupt communication between your brain and body. Dr. V answers listener questions about pain management, lifestyle changes, diabetes connections, treatment options, and emerging therapies. Whether you're dealing with tingling, numbness, or burning sensations, this episode provides practical information to help you understand and manage neuropathy. Email with your questions at info@askdrv.us.

Brought to you by Channel of Health - informing, educating, and em...


Medical Discrimination Part 2
#21
10/31/2025

Join Dr. Valda Crowder, a board-certified emergency medicine physician with 30 years of experience, as she tackles one of healthcare's most pervasive yet overlooked issues: medical discrimination.

In this episode of The Ask Dr. V Show, she interviews guests about their first-hand accounts of medical discrimination and how they advocated for themselves, literally saving their lives.

Dr. V explores the real-world impacts of medical discrimination—from undertreated pain in Black patients to dismissed symptoms in women, weight stigma, ageism, and barriers facing LGBTQ+ and non-English speaking patients. Learn about medical gaslighting, understand your rights as a pa...


Medical Discrimination: Understanding Bias in Healthcare
#20
10/22/2025

Medical Discrimination: Understanding Bias in Healthcare

Join Dr. Valda Crowder, a board-certified emergency medicine physician with 30 years of experience, as she tackles one of healthcare's most pervasive yet overlooked issues: medical discrimination. In this episode of The Ask Dr. V Show, discover how patients face bias and unequal care based on race, gender, weight, age, disability, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic status. Through listener calls and questions, Dr. V explores the real-world impacts of medical discrimination—from undertreated pain in Black patients to dismissed symptoms in women, weight stigma, ageism, and barriers facing LGBTQ+ and non-English speaking patients. Le...


Is Your Health Insurance at Risk?
#19
10/15/2025

Right now, as we speak, millions of Americans are facing a healthcare crisis that could hit your family next. Open enrollment is happening this month, but with the government shutdown and the so-called 'Big Beautiful Bill' making its way through Congress, the rules are changing faster than most people can keep up.

If you have health insurance through Medicaid, Medicare, Medicare Advantage, or the ACA marketplace—your coverage could be at serious risk. Premiums are skyrocketing, subsidies are expiring, and for some, coverage could disappear entirely by January.

Here's what makes this especially urgent: this is...