The Starting Gate

Send us Fan Mail  In this episode, stroke neurologist Dr. Theresa Sevilis joins us to break down what really happens in the brain during a stroke, who is at risk, and how recovery can unfold.  Dr. Sevilis also emphasizes the importance of addressing chronic conditions like hypertension that raise stroke risk, and how everyday choices—like choosing vegetables over fast food or staying active—can lo...

Send us Fan Mail Migraines aren’t “just bad headaches” — they’re a disease that can be life-altering.  In this episode, we sit down with headache neurologist Dr. Jaclyn Duvall to explore the world of tension headaches and migraines.  We discuss what causes them, common triggers like food, sleep, and posture, and how to know when over-the-counter medications are enough — and when it’s time to see a...

Send us Fan Mail Ever feel bloated, itchy, or just “off” after eating certain foods—and wonder if it’s an allergy? In this episode, allergist Dr. Shaunah Ritter helps us sort fact from confusion when it comes to food reactions. We dig into the difference between milk allergy and lactose intolerance (they’re not the same!), why food diaries matter, and how to use them to figure out what’s really bo...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, gastroenterologist Dr. Sunana Sohi takes us on a deep dive into the gut microbiome—what it is, how it forms, and why it matters for your health. We explore the gut–brain axis, dysbiosis vs. eubiosis, and the role of prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics. Dr. Sohi also shares practical strategies for common digestive issues like IBS, constipation, and acid reflux...

Send us Fan Mail Fatty liver disease is one of the fastest-growing liver conditions worldwide, often linked with obesity, diabetes, and other metabolic health issues. Many people don’t realize they have it until it progresses to more serious complications like cirrhosis. In this episode, we sit down with gastroenterology nurse practitioner Kyle Bloomfield to uncover the risks, warning signs, and c...

Send us Fan Mail Colon cancer rates are rising in younger adults—and it’s a trend we can’t ignore. In this episode, we sit down with oncologist Dr. Reema Patel to discuss why this is happening, which lifestyle and genetic factors increase risk, and what you can do to protect yourself. We also talk through screening tests, why they matter, and how catching colon cancer early changes everything. Thi...

Send us Fan Mail Ever wondered what’s actually living in your gut—and how to keep it healthy? Registered dietitian and owner of LexStart nutrition Emily McGlone joins us to unpack everything you need to know about your gut microbiome.  We explore what probiotics and prebiotics really are, how to get them in your diet, and why fiber and plant diversity are essential for gut health.  We cover practi...

Send us Fan Mail It’s that time again—back to school! Whether you’re sending a kindergartner or a senior, we’ve got you covered. We’re joined by three principals from elementary, middle, and high school who share what they wish every parent knew. Tune in for tips on how to motivate (but not micromanage) your kids, how to talk with teachers, and why getting involved matters. We also chat about the...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we dive into the messy, beautiful truth: medicine isn’t black and white—it lives in the gray. While bold, oversimplified health claims often go viral on social media, real patient care is far more nuanced. We explore why individualized care matters and how no two patients are exactly alike. From lifestyle medicine to functional and integrative approaches, we discu...

Send us Fan Mail What is metabolic health, and why does it matter for your energy, weight, and long-term wellness? In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Meredith Sweeney, a former bariatric surgeon now practicing longevity medicine, to unpack what’s happening under the surface. We dive into insulin resistance—how it develops, why it's so common, and what it means for your overall health. Dr. S...

Send us Fan Mail Is your thyroid holding you back? Endocrinologist Dr. Kyle Rosenstein joins us to explain the signs of hypothyroidism , what Hashimoto’s really means, and why thyroid lab testing isn’t one-size-fits-all. We also dive into how and when to take thyroid medications  (hint: don’t take it with your morning coffee) and what to know if you’re dealing with multiple autoimmune conditions....

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we sit down with clinical and cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Brooke Jeffy to talk all things skin health. From teen breakouts to aging skin, we cover what changes as we age, what your skincare routine really needs (hint: it’s probably simpler than you think), and how to choose the right cleanser and moisturizer. We dive deep into sunscreen—how much, how often, and wha...

Send us Fan Mail Confused by health insurance? You’re not alone. In this episode, we sit down with personal benefits manager Whitney Kline  to unpack the key terms and choices that matter most—high vs. low deductibles, tax credits, coinsurance, and out-of-pocket maximums, plus how to make the most of HSAs and FSAs. We also explore the world of health shares and how they differ from traditional ins...

Send us Fan Mail Your brain is hard at work while you rest—and Dr. Lauren Whitehurst is here to explain how. From sleep cycles and memory consolidation to the impact of naps, nicotine, and hormones, we explore the surprising ways sleep shapes your cognitive health. If you’ve ever wondered how to make your sleep work better for you, this conversation is a must-listen.  Are you interested in partici...

Send us Fan Mail Insomnia is more than just a bad night’s sleep—it’s a frustrating and emotional experience for millions. In this powerful episode, sleep psychologist Dr. Ryan Wetzler helps us understand the science behind sleep timing and chronotypes, the very real fear of not sleeping, and why Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is such a life-changing tool. Whether you’re just sta...

Send us Fan Mail We all know sleep is important—but do you know just how far its benefits go? In this kickoff episode of our sleep series, we dive into the surprising ways sleep supports your brain, heart, metabolism, immune system, and more. Plus, we break down how daily habits—from evening workouts to that afternoon latte—can help or hurt your ability to get quality rest. Tune in to fully unders...

Send us Fan Mail From bored kids to bedtime battles, summer can be a wild ride for families. Luckily, pediatrician Dr. Sarah O’Leary is here to help. In this episode, we talk about water safety, helmets, sunscreen, screen time, and how to set up a summer routine that keeps kids safe, healthy, and (mostly) happy. You’ll also hear how the principles of lifestyle medicine—like sleep, movement, nutrit...

Send us Fan Mail If you've ever wondered whether your fatigue, joint pain, or brain fog could be more than "just stress," this episode is for you.  We sit down with rheumatologist Dr. Olga Pinkston to demystify inflammatory arthritis and fibromyalgia- how they show up, how they’re diagnosed, and why lifestyle choices matter.   Learn how food, movement, rest, and stress management ar...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Selena Raines, a board-certified family physician and Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, for a refreshing look at how healthcare can work differently for patients. We explore Direct Primary Care (DPC): what it is, how it’s changing the patient-doctor relationship, and why more doctors are moving away from traditional insurance-based models.  Dr. R...

Send us Fan Mail  In this wide-ranging conversation with pain specialist Dr. Shawn Milburn, we break down what really causes back pain and how to treat it effectively. From physical therapy and lifestyle changes to medications and surgical options, we walk through a full toolbox of strategies. We also confront one of the most debated issues in pain management: opioids for chronic back pain—when th...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we sit down with orthopedic surgeon Dr. Kevin Denehy to  break down everything you need to know about knee osteoarthritis.   We explore why osteoarthritis happens, how to help prevent and slow the damage, and lifestyle modifications that can make a real difference.   We also cover pain management options, from supplements and medications to various types of inject...

Send us Fan Mail In this powerful episode, Dr. Sarah Schuetz shares her personal experience of losing her home in a devastating fire—and the lessons she learned the hard way about home insurance, emotional resilience, and the importance of community. We’re joined by Hays Featherston, Sarah’s home insurance agent, who helps break down the details of what is and isn’t covered in most policies, what...

Send us Fan Mail House fires are more common than you think—and few people are truly prepared.  In this powerful episode, we step away from our usual health topics to share a deeply personal story. Sarah recounts the night her home went up in flames—and how she and her family escaped. Joined by guest Lexington Fire Chief Jason Wells, we unpack essential fire safety knowledge every household should...

Send us Fan Mail Osteoporosis is more common than you might think—and often preventable. In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Nick Trubee, an expert in exercise physiology, who specializes in using resistance training to improve bone strength. We explore the key lifestyle factors that affect bone health, including nutrition (think calcium, vitamin D, and protein), common risk factors, and why earl...

Send us Fan Mail Your menstrual cycle is more than just a period—it’s a vital sign of your overall health. In this episode, we sit down with APRN Alexis McAnally, a FEMM-certified specialist, to dive into the science of cycle tracking. Alexis explains how biomarkers can give you insight into your hormones, what’s normal (and what’s not), and how fluctuations affect everything from mood and sleep t...