JoyMed

Join host Melina Davis for a timely conversation with DBHDS Commissioner Daryl Washington on what it takes to improve mental health across the lifespan in Virginia. Drawing on more than three decades in behavioral health, Commissioner Washington breaks down DBHDS’s role in plain language—what’s working, where access gaps remain, and the barriers families and clinicians face every day. The discussi...

Discover Dr. Todd Otten’s powerful story of physician burnout, resilience, and systemic change in healthcare. Learn why vulnerability matters, how the documentary "Suck It Up, Buttercup" is sparking conversations, and what gives hope for the future of medicine. Perfect for clinicians, healthcare leaders, and anyone interested in medical wellness and reform. Key Moments: 00:09 – Meet Dr. Todd Otten...

In this episode, we explore fatigue, burnout, and what it really means to “fill your cup” amid the stressors of everyday life. While the conversation focuses on the unique pressures facing healthcare professionals, it also reflects the broader challenges many of us face as a society—and how we can move toward more meaningful, sustainable well‑being.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming the healthcare landscape—but is it all good news? In this episode of JoyMed, we sit down with Dr. Mark Townsend who is deeply passionate about AI’s role in medicine. Together, we explore how AI can enhance patient care, streamline workflows, and improve outcomes, while also addressing the risks, ethical concerns, and unintended consequences that come wi...

In this thought-provoking episode, host Melina Davis sits down with Dr. Saul J. Weiner to explore why physicians must move beyond being mere task masters. Together, they discuss how shifting the mindset from transactional care to truly understanding the patient experience can transform outcomes and restore meaning to medical practice. Tune in for insights on empathy, adaptability, and the future o...

Join Melina Davis for a special JoyMed episode as we close out 2025 with gratitude and inspiration. This heartfelt message celebrates the fortitude, compassion, and dedication of Virginia’s healthcare professionals—and looks ahead to a new year filled with hope and joy.

In this episode of JoyMed, we explore the Adult Psychiatric Access Line—a vital resource designed to support clinicians treating adult patients with substance use disorders. Learn how this call line and educational service not only enhance clinical decision-making but also strengthen the patient-physician relationship and help combat burnout. Join us as we discuss how collaborative psychiatric sup...

In this special JoyMed episode, guest host Carolyn McCrea, AVP of Programs, sits down with Dr. Taylor Taliaferro and Tim Taliaferro to tackle one of the most overlooked aspects of medical training—financial well-being. From the lack of formal education on personal finance in medical school to practical strategies for managing debt and planning for the future, this conversation is packed with insig...

Melina Davis is joined by John Poma from TPMG to discuss the story of his Parkinson’s diagnosis and the work he is doing to find a cure and to build community in Richmond.

Melina is joined by Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services Commissioner Nelson Smith where they discuss his path to this current role, his passion for mental health care work, and what Virginia is doing to support patients across the Commonwealth.

In this episode, Melina speaks with Joel Bundy, MD , President, The Medical Society of Virginia and Chief Medical and Quality Officer, Sentara Health   Common challenges faced by medical administrators The role organizations play in healthcare professional well-being The role healthcare administrators play in the health and well-being of their team members

In this episode, Melina is joined by Dr. Art Saavedra, Dean of VCU School of Medicine. Dr. Saavedra and Melina explore the critical issue of burnout in medical training and beyond. They discuss the root causes of burnout and how medical schools can address them through stress management and well-being education. Join us as we examine how institutions can reshape curricula and foster healthier...

Hosted by Melina Davis Guests: Morgan McDowell, NP Centra Health Tiffany Lyttle, RN Patient Education, Nurse Wellness Coordinator & ADT Manager Centra Health Overview: In this episode, Melina explores the day to day rewards and challenges of nursing with our two guests.. This frontline perspective acknowledges the obstacles of nursing shortages and workplace dangers, while sharing some advice...

Hosted by Melina Davis, Executive Vice President and CEO of the Medical Society of Virginia. Guests: Dr. Varun Choudhary, Chief Medical Advisor for SafeHaven, and Dr. Cyn Romero, Director of the Brock Institute for Community and Global Health of the Macon and Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences. Overview: In this inaugural episode of JoyMed, Melina Davis introduces SafeHaven, a groundbreaking prog...

Hosted by Melina Davis Guest: Bobby Cockram, PA-C, Incoming VAPA President Overview: In this episode, Melina speaks with PA and incoming VAPA President to explore the day-to-day realities of working on the frontline of healthcare. The discussion centers on why burnout is particularly high among PAs and how programs like SafeHaven can provide vital support to these professionals. Key Topics: - A da...

Hosted by Melina Davis Guests: Russel Hawes, Medical Student at the University of Virginia and Meghan Andrepont, a PA Student at Randolph-Macon College Overview: Melina sits down with a medical and PA student to discuss the challenges and surprises they've encountered on their journey to becoming clinicians. They talk about the importance of support programs like SafeHaven for future healthcare wo...