Live Greater | A University of Maryland Medical System Podcast

Before you head outside to mow, weed, or garden, make sure you know how to protect yourself in the summer heat and from bugs and ticks. This episode shares simple, practical ways to stay safe while working outside, from preventing muscle strain and sunburn to spotting warning signs of heat-related illness and preventing bug bites. Featuring Michael Loiacono, DNP, AGPCNP-BC, CRNP, Nurse Practitione...

Learn simple, realistic ways to support digestion without following a restrictive diet. Dr. Mohammad Abdallah, a gastroenterologist at UM Charles Regional Medical Group in LaPlata, explains fiber, hydration, meal timing, trigger foods and when digestive symptoms may need medical care.  For more information about Dr. Abdallah

Big emotions and sudden behavior changes are part of growing up. This episode helps parents understand emotional development, what’s common at different ages, and when reactions may signal something more.  For more information about Dr. Badawi 

Children develop speech and communication skills at different speeds. This episode explores common talking patterns, speech delays, and changes in communication—plus when it’s helpful to seek guidance.

Learn how COPD treatment is changing, including newer medications, ways to prevent flare-ups, affordability tips and questions to ask your pulmonologist. Featuring Dr. Kathryn Robinett, a pulmonary critical care physician at UMMC Midtown Center for Pulmonary Health.  For more information about Dr. Robinett  

Learn how minimally invasive gynecologic surgery may help treat pelvic pain, fibroids, cysts, endometriosis and other conditions with less pain and faster recovery. Featuring Farinaz Seifi, MD, FACOG, Associate Professor of Minimally Invasive Gynecology Surgery and Vice Chair of Gynecology and Gynecologic Subspecialties at the University of Maryland School of Medicine.  For more information about...

This episode explains when to consider geriatric-focused primary care and why early specialty attention can prevent crises and improve quality of life. Dr. Pavitri Dwivedi, DO (geriatrician and primary care provider, University of Maryland Baltimore Washington Medical Group Adult & Senior Care Team) discusses signs like frequent hospitalizations, complex medication lists, and caregiving strain...

Diabetes technology is changing the way people monitor blood sugar, take insulin and manage daily life. In this episode, Caitlin Nass, CRNP, a diabetes expert and Clinical Director of the Diabetes Transformation program at UM Baltimore Washington Medical Center, explains how tools like continuous glucose monitors, insulin pumps and apps can help — and what patients should know about affordability,...

If back pain, sciatica or nerve symptoms are not improving, endoscopic spine surgery may be an option. A spine specialist explains who may benefit, how it works and what recovery can look like. Featuring Justin Tortolani, MD and Stephen Selverian, MD, spine surgeons at UM St. Joseph Medical Center.

For many people with cancer, exercise may help reduce fatigue, improve strength, support recovery and protect overall health. In this episode, we talk about how physical activity can help during and after treatment, how to get started safely, and why it’s important to work with your care team. Featuring Dr. Jennifer Baima, a physiatrist at The Orthopedic Center at Easton, part of University of Mar...

If you live with migraines, you may have heard about a possible connection to PFO and stroke. In this episode, we break down what a PFO is, what current research suggests, and why this topic matters most in certain patients — especially after an unexplained stroke. Featuring Lindsay Goff, BSN, RN, NRP, is the Primary Stroke Program Coordinator at University of Maryland Upper Chesapeake Health.

Living with osteoporosis can make exercise feel intimidating, but the right exercises can help improve strength, stability, and confidence. This episode covers safe ways to get started, protect your bones, and move with less fear. Featuring Dr. Jennifer Baima, a physiatrist at The Orthopedic Center at Easton, part of University of Maryland Shore Regional Health.

Menopause is a turning point—not a breaking point—for bone health. In this episode, Ben Diffenderfer, PA-C, MS, an expert in osteoporosis from UM Upper Chesapeake Health, discusses the connection between menopause and bone health, what puts some women at higher risk, and how screening, lifestyle changes, and personalized care can help women stay strong and proactive about their health.

National data shows heart disease risks are rising, but protecting your heart doesn’t have to be expensive. Learn affordable habits, nutrition tips and preventive steps that can make a real difference for families watching their spending. Featuring Dr. Abid Fakhri, cardiologist at University of Maryland Baltimore Washington Heart Associates.  For more information about heart health, visit health.u...

Don’t let COPD flare-ups catch you off guard! In this episode, Dr. Nariv Shah explains what causes COPD symptoms to worsen, how flare-ups are treated and what steps can help you breathe easier—especially during allergy season.  Learn about Dr. Shah.  Learn about Pulmonary Care at UM Midtown Campus . Find a COPD expert in your area.   

Stressful moments are a normal part of raising kids, and that can leave parents feeling overwhelmed. In this podcast, explore how reframing common parenting challenges can help parents feel steadier, more patient and better equipped to handle tough days. Featuring Adam Miller, LCPC, LPC, Manager of the Klein Family Center at University of Maryland Upper Chesapeake Health.  For more information abo...

Growing up comes with stress, frustration and disappointment — and that’s okay. Discover how resilience skills emerge as kids learn to name feelings, solve problems and navigate challenges, and get guidance on how parents can support emotional growth without overprotecting. Featuring Adam Miller, LCPC, LPC, Manager of the Klein Family Center at University of Maryland Upper Chesapeake Health.   For...

Early detection and advanced surgical care are changing the outlook for lung cancer. Discover how robotic technology is helping doctors treat lung cancer earlier, safer and with a faster recovery. Featuring thoracic surgeon Gavin Henry, MD, FACS.  For more information about Dr. Henry For more information about Thoracic Surgery at the Tate Cancer Center For other locations in Maryland

Hot flashes, irregular periods, mood changes—and you’re told you’re “too young” for menopause. In this episode, Dr, Carmen Farrior, an OB/GYN at UM St. Joseph Medical Group, explains what early onset menopause really is, how to recognize the signs and what treatment options can help women feel like themselves again. Learn why symptoms are often missed, what questions to ask your doctor and how per...

If you’ve been told “it’s just stress” or “you’re getting older,” this episode is for you. Perimenopause is real—and help is available. In this episode, Dr. Carmen Farrior, an OB/GYN at UM St. Joseph Medical Group, shares how to recognize perimenopause, what options exist to manage symptoms and how women can partner with their care team to feel informed, supported and empowered at every stage.

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, better known as PCOS, affects millions of women and often makes weight loss feel impossible, but with the support of bariatrics, it doesn’t have to be! In this episode, Dr. Alexander Aurora, Director of Advanced Minimally Invasive Surgery and Bariatrics at UM Upper Chesapeake Health, explains how bariatric surgery can help women with PCOS take control of their health,...

When you are battling cancer, what you eat is important. Sometimes the treatments can affect how food tastes, how hungry you feel, and what your body can tolerate. Learn how nutrition can help with side effects like nausea or taste changes, what you should eat to maintain strength during your cancer journey, and how loved ones can be supportive without being pushy. Featuring Susan Krische, PhD, RD...

Back and neck pain can stop you in your tracks—but understanding the cause is the first step toward relief. In this episode Dr. Khalid Kurtom, a spine surgeon at the UM Shore Regional Health, explains the most common reasons for back and neck pain, when to seek medical care and how advances in treatment are helping patients get back to living pain-free.  Learn more about Dr. Kurtom  

Menopause after surgery can feel sudden — but knowledge is power. Learn what’s happening inside your body and how to take charge of your health, hormones and happiness in this empowering Live Greater episode, featuring Dr. Erica Contreras, OB-GYN at UM Charles Regional Medical Group – Women’s Health in LaPlata.

Early detection saves lives. Learn how advanced screening programs and robotic technology are transforming the fight against lung cancer. In this episode, Dr. Peter Olivieri, III, a pulmonologist and critical care leader at UM Baltimore Washington Medical Center, explains who should be screened, how the process works, and what makes today’s minimally invasive diagnostic tools so precise and effect...