The Healing Podcast - Brought to you by MarinHealth

Taking a GLP-1? Here's How to Stay Healthy & Maintain Muscle While Losing Weight

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, MarinHealth Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Pamela Riggs, MS, RDN, CSOWM, covers GLP-1 medications and how they regulate blood sugar and aid in weight loss. She discusses how people taking these medications can mitigate side effects, maintain muscle mass, and sustain weight loss, and how working with a registered dietitian nutritionist can help yield optimal results.

Winter Wellness: Using Traditional Chinese Medicine to Align with the Season

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0500

Discover strategies for prioritizing your health during the winter months with MarinHealth Acupuncturist Camille Loveman, DACM, LA-C. This episode explores how traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) views the winter season, emphasizing energy conservation, dietary adjustments, and self-care practices. Join us to learn how to nourish your body with warming foods like root vegetables and broths while maintaining balance through gentle exercises. Listen to uncover the subtle shifts you can make to enhance your winter well-being!

Learn more about Dr. Camille Loveman, DACM, LA-C

How Is Climate Change Impacting Children's Health?

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we delve into the significant effects of climate change on the health of our youngest generations. MarinHealth Pediatrician Dr. Carol Fonseca shares critical insights on how rising temperatures and worsening air quality are impacting children’s physical and mental well-being. Discover how environmental changes are creating new health challenges, and what parents can do to protect their kids.

Learn more about Carolina Ellinger Da Fonseca, MD

Is It Tinnitus? Signs and Symptoms Explained

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0500

Wondering if the ringing in your ears is tinnitus? In this episode, clinical audiologist Joe Powner, Au.D., CCC-A, sheds light on the various sounds associated with tinnitus. Tune in to learn about its causes, symptoms, and why it affects so many people, including veterans. Understanding these elements is crucial for effective management of this condition.

Understanding Lumbar Stenosis: What You Need to Know

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -0500

Join Dr. Akash Shah as he explains the common signs of lumbar stenosis, the importance of early diagnosis and various treatment options, ranging from non-invasive treatments to surgical options. Learn how you can take control of your lumbar health in this essential episode.

Learn more about Akash Shah, MD

Understanding Acne: Causes and Treatments Explained

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Join Dr. Lucinda Cohn as she unpacks the complex world of acne. From what causes those pesky blemishes to the most effective treatments —both over-the-counter and prescription—this episode provides valuable insights for anyone struggling with acne, regardless of age.

Learn more about Lucinda Kohn, MD, MHS

Modern, Minimally-Invasive Treatments for Lower Back Pain

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0500

For millions of Americans living with chronic lower back pain, the assumption is often that their only options are pain pills or invasive surgery. Fortunately, advancements in pain management mean that we now have access to a growing array of safe and effective minimally-invasive treatments that reduce pain and restore quality of life.

Learn more about Harjot Bhandal, MD

Diabetes & Exercise: A Personal Journey

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 01:00:00 -0500

MarinHealth nurse Kelly Stroup shares her personal experiences on the path from non-exerciser to half marathon runner, as well as insights on managing blood sugar and enhancing mental well-being through physical activity.

Learn more about Kelly Stroup, MSN, CNL, CDE

Thriving with Diabetes: A Personal Journey

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Rachel Zucker-Wong, RN, CDCES, PHN, a Diabetes Nurse Specialist at MarinHealth’s Braden Diabetes Center, discusses the emotional and psychological hurdles that come with managing a chronic illness, and how her experience with type 1 diabetes shaped her career. She shares her coping strategies, from community support to continuous glucose monitoring, and explains how to build confidence and maintain mental well-being while managing diabetes.

Understanding Endometriosis: What Every Woman Should Know

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 02:00:00 -0500

Learn about endometriosis, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options. In this informative episode, Dr. Beau Park shares critical facts about endometriosis that can significantly improve quality of life.

Understanding Colon Cancer

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 01:00:00 -0500

Dr. Sean Maroney breaks down what you need to know about colon cancer, its symptoms, and treatment options. Learn about new guidelines for screening including colonoscopies and the SHIELD blood test, as well as actionable lifestyle changes that can help reduce your risk of developing colon cancer.

Sciatica and Herniated Discs

Thu, 30 May 2024 01:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Dr. Blake Taylor leads a discussion focusing on sciatica, its causes, and treatment options.

Ozempic for Weight Loss

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 02:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Dr. Sharleen Sidhu leads a discussion focusing on Ozempic, and how if differs from other weight loss drugs on the market.

Addressing Common Breastfeeding Issues

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 00:00:00 -0500

Just because nursing is a natural process doesn’t mean it comes naturally to every mother and baby. Some infants, especially if they are born early, may take time learning to breastfeed. And sometimes, moms have their own breastfeeding challenges. In this podcast, Breast Surgeon and Breastfeeding Medicine Specialist Dr. Rachel Yang discusses some common breastfeeding problems, from under- and overproduction to mastitis and galactoceles.

All About AFib

Mon, 26 Dec 2022 01:00:00 -0500

The CDC estimates that an estimated 2.7 to 6.1 million people in the United States have Atrial Fibrillation, or AFib. The most common form of irregular heartbeat, AFib is a risk factor for stroke.

In this podcast, electrophysiologist Dr. Vivek Iyer discusses the symptoms and risk factors for AFib. Find out about the various treatment options for controlling AFib and reducing your stroke risk. And learn about a clinical trial for a new way to perform catheter ablation, a procedure that destroys the cells causing the abnormal heartbeat.

Breaking the Cycle of Negative Thoughts: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Part 1

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 00:00:00 -0500

Staying positive can be easier said than done. If you suffer from depression, anxiety, or both, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help readjust your thinking.

In this podcast, MarinHealth psychotherapist Edward Vander Clute, LCSW explains the theory behind CBT. Distorted thinking can hurt your self-esteem, warp your perceptions, darken your mood, and impact your career and relationships. Find out how you can learn to recognize and combat these destructive thoughts for a more positive, constructive outlook.

Breaking the Cycle of Negative Thoughts: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Part 2

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 00:00:00 -0500

This is part two of our Cognitive Behavioral Therapy podcast—be sure to listen to part one first! Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, is a short-term therapy technique to combat destructive thought patterns that negatively impact our lives. In this second half of his podcast, MarinHealth psychotherapist Edward Vander Clute, LCSW looks at the vicious cycle that develops between negative thinking and self-sabotaging behavior. Isolating yourself from the support of friends and family when you are depressed leads to more distorted thinking and destructive self-criticism. Learn what to do instead.

Enhancing Surgical Precision With VELYS Total Knee Replacement

Thu, 17 Mar 2022 00:00:00 -0500

When it comes to joint replacement, precision is everything. The right angle, the right fit, the right implant–all are essential for a good outcome.
VELYS robotic-assisted knee replacement is a state-of-the-art alternative, not just to manual surgery but to older robotic knee replacement technologies.

Dr. Jeff Barry, Assistant Professor of Orthopedic Surgery and Clinical Fellowship Director, Division of Adult Reconstruction at MarinHealth, has performed many knee replacements. Here, he explains the advantages the VELYS procedure poses for both patients and physicians. While not appropriate in every case, VELYS robotic knee replacement is an important addition to an orthopedic surgeon’s tool kit.

Prevention: the Best Way to Strike Out Stroke

Tue, 01 Mar 2022 01:00:00 -0500

Stroke is the #5 cause of death and the #1 cause of long-term disability in the US. Fortunately, 80% of strokes are treatable and preventable. Knowing the symptoms of stroke and your risk factors for having one is important, but lifestyle modifications are the key to prevention.

Nicole Pacha and Maureen “Mo” Stull are Registered Nurses and Stroke Program Coordinators at MarinHealth Medical Center. In this podcast, they detail how to reduce your stroke risk, from rethinking your diet to enhancing communication with your doctor to get the most out of your medical appointments.

Preventing and Managing Lymphedema

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 01:00:00 -0500

Living with lymphedema is challenging. Without proper management, the condition progresses, limiting motion, strength, and stability. Because lymphedema is usually caused by bodily trauma such as lymph node removal, surgery, radiation, pr infection, patients may not be in the best of health when they first start treatment. They need hands on physical therapy, support, and encouragement to keep the condition under control.

Jennifer Fernandez and Michelle Haas are both certified lymphedema therapists at MarinHealth. In this podcast, they cover the difference between primary and secondary lymphedema, the types of therapies they provide, and the importance of personalizing treatment to the individual.

COVID-19 Vaccine in Pregnancy

Fri, 17 Dec 2021 01:00:00 -0500

TPA: Life-saving Stroke Treatment

Wed, 15 Dec 2021 01:00:00 -0500

“Time is brain.” That’s the adage doctors use when they talk about surviving a stroke with minimal damage to the brain. If the patient is having an ischemic stroke, the kind that is caused by a blood clot, doctors have a four-and-a-half-hour window from the onset of the stroke to administer TPA. So, what is TPA and how does it work?

As a member of the medical staff at MarinHealth, neurologist Ilkan Cokgor is an expert in the treatment of stroke. In this podcast, she explains how stroke patients are evaluated, when TPA is an appropriate treatment, and when interventional neurology can be used to remove a clot.

Avoiding a Secondary Stroke

Wed, 15 Dec 2021 01:00:00 -0500

If you’ve had a stroke, chances are fear of a recurrence is always in the back of your mind. The current recurrence rate for US stroke survivors is around 10% yet many of these secondary strokes could have been avoided. That’s why it’s wise to do all you can to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Dr. Ilkcan Cokgor, a Neurologist and member of the medical staff at MarinHealth, has some good advice to help you stay well. Some of the topics covered in this podcast include the risk factors for a secondary stroke, the difference between ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke, and the importance of staying on your medication.

Understanding Transient Ischemic Attacks

Wed, 15 Dec 2021 01:00:00 -0500

Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack? The symptoms are the same, and both require an immediate visit to the Emergency Department. In fact, a person if you are admitted to the hospital with a Transient Ischemic Attack, or TIA, you will get a full stroke workup. If a TIA goes untreated, there is a 10% chance of having a stroke within three months.

In this podcast, Dr. Ilkcan Cokgor, a neurologist and a member of the medical staff at MarinHealth, explains the difference between a TIA and a stroke. Find out why medical professionals don’t use the term “mini stroke” to describe a TIA. Learn the difference between ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke. And be sure to learn the signs of stroke–the life you save could be your own.

Facial Gender Affirmation Surgery: A Life-Changing Procedure.

Thu, 11 Nov 2021 01:00:00 -0500

Facial gender affirmation surgery has made remarkable advances in recent years. These delicate plastic surgery procedures align a person’s facial structure with the gender they have always identified with. The surgery is highly personalized–the surgeon needs to gain a clear understanding of the patient’s facial structure, desires, and expectations before planning the procedure.

Dr. Angela Rodriguez, a Gender Affirmation Surgeon at MarinHealth Medical Center, specializes in facial gender affirmation surgery. In this podcast, she answers many of the initial questions transgender people have about this surgery, from the use of hormones, to insurance requirements, to what to expect from your first appointment.

Cirugía de Afirmación de Género Facial: Un procedimiento que cambia la vida

Thu, 11 Nov 2021 01:00:00 -0500

La cirugía de afirmación de género facial ha logrado avances notables en los últimos años. Estos delicados procedimientos de cirugía plástica alinean la estructura facial de una persona con el género con el que siempre se han identificado. La cirugía es altamente personalizada: el cirujano necesita obtener una comprensión clara de la estructura facial, los deseos y las expectativas del paciente antes de planificar el procedimiento.

Dr. Angela Rodríguez, cirujana de afirmación de género en MarinHealth Medical Center, se especializa en cirugía de afirmación de género facial. En este podcast, ella responde a muchas de las preguntas iniciales que las personas transgénero tienen sobre esta cirugía, desde el uso de hormonas hasta los requisitos de seguro y qué esperar de su primera cita.

Physician Intro/ Philosophy: Alice Yee, DO

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 00:00:00 -0500

Dr Alice Yee discusses her education and training in family medicine.

Incontinence After Pregnancy

Tue, 17 Aug 2021 00:00:00 -0500

Nearly four in ten women will experience some degree of incontinence after giving birth. For some, this bothersome condition will go away on its own within the first six weeks after birth. But what if the problem persists?

Dr. Robert Chan, a urologist at MarinHealth Urology | A UCSF Health Clinic, specializes in incontinence and pelvic reconstruction. Here, he discusses the causes of post-pregnancy incontinence and what can be done to treat the condition so it does not become a problem long-term.

Incontinence As a Women Ages

Tue, 17 Aug 2021 00:00:00 -0500

Too many women over 40 think urinary incontinence is a fact of life. Unfortunately, this common problem can have a devastating impact on a woman’s self-confidence and activity level.

Dr. Robert Chan, a urologist at MarinHealth Urology | A UCSF Health Clinic, has helped hundreds of women overcome incontinence. In this podcast, he discusses the different types of incontinence, the impact of childbirth and menopause on a woman’s urinary tract, and various treatment options.

Midwifery at MarinHealth

Fri, 28 May 2021 00:00:00 -0500

Marinhealth Medical Center is one of a small number of Bay Area hospitals to offer a woman a choice of a physician- or midwife-assisted labor and delivery. What is the difference?

In this detailed interview, Mary Newberry, MarinHealth Certified Nurse Midwife, answers questions about midwifery you didn’t even know you had. Find out why a midwife-assisted birth is an empowering choice for so many women. Learn how midwives are trained and why their special expertise goes way beyond delivering babies.

Concussions and Sports: What Parents Need to Know

Tue, 25 May 2021 00:00:00 -0500

Sports are a wonderful way for children and teens to stay physically fit, make friends, and learn to be team players. But accidents happen, and concussion is a real risk. That’s why Marin County instituted its Concussion Management Program.

In this podcast, MarinHealth Athletic Trainer Marcella Shorty explains how she assesses potential concussions right on the sports field, based on the Sports Concussion Assessment Tool, a step-by-step evaluation for a potential head injury. Some youngsters may not realize they have concussion symptoms, while others try to mask the symptoms so they can get back in the game. Shorty makes sure kids are benched and parents are called so their child can be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Understanding Gestational Diabetes

Mon, 24 May 2021 00:00:00 -0500

Every year, between 2 and 10% of pregnancies are affected by gestational diabetes, one of the most common types of “high risk pregnancies.” Untreated, gestational diabetes can lead to premature birth and even still birth.

Katy McDermott, a Registered Nutrition and Dietician and Certified Diabetes Educator at MarinHealth Braden Diabetes Center, has been educating and advising women with gestational diabetes for 13 years. In this podcast, she discusses how gestational diabetes is diagnosed and treated and how to minimize the risk to both mother and baby.

Stopping Prediabetes In Its Tracks

Mon, 24 May 2021 00:00:00 -0500

There are two ways to address a diagnosis of prediabetes: The wrong way is to shrug it off and carry on as usual, with no changes to your diet or exercise regimen. The smart way is to view your diagnosis as a warning, take charge of your health, and prevent prediabetes from progressing to full blown type 2 diabetes.

Katy McDermott, a Registered Nutrition and Dietician and Diabetes Educator at MarinHealth, explains what prediabetes is and how it is diagnosed. Learn more about this insidious, asymptomatic condition and what you can do to manage it.

What is a Doula

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 00:00:00 -0500

Think doulas are only for unmedicated births? Think there’s no point in having a doula if you’re having a C-section? Think again. A doula can help you prepare for your baby’s arrival long before those first contractions hit, and even once you’ve gone home with your new arrival.

Meet seasoned doula Mollee Franklin, CD, CLE. In this podcast, she explains just how a doula works with her clients to ease them through the birth process, connect them to useful resources, and make a smooth transition to breastfeeding. Even your partner or spouse can benefit from the presence of a doula during delivery. Listen and learn how an experienced doula can help make your birth experience calmer and more meaningful.

All About Acupuncture

Wed, 28 Apr 2021 23:00:00 -0500

In recent years, the centuries-old Chinese healing art of acupuncture has grown in popularity in the U.S. An increasing number of American hospitals and medical practices are offering acupuncture as an integrative treatment modality. Yet many people who have never experienced the benefits of acupuncture still have misconceptions about this ancient practice.

In this podcast, Dr. Camille Loveman shares her expertise as an acupuncturist and herbal therapist at MarinHealth Integrative Wellness Center. Find out how acupuncture works and learn about its many uses, from pain management, to symptom relief, to stress reduction.

Palliative Care: The Soul of Medicine

Thu, 28 Jan 2021 01:00:00 -0500

Dr. Joshua Biddle and Kora Schmid, BCC have a flowing discussion about palliative care and why it is the soul of medicine.

Meet MarinHealth Primary Care Physician, Jerome Smith

Mon, 04 Jan 2021 01:00:00 -0500

Jerome Smith was working in IT and volunteering with an afterschool program for underserved youngsters when he realized his true passion was helping kids. So he went back to school, getting his medical degree from George Washington University. Dr. Smith’s philosophy of care reflects the influence of his mentors at Cedars-Sinai in LA, where he completed his internship and residency. Dr. Smith believes that a person’s infancy and childhood have a life-long effect on their health and potential for success. He enjoys advising the parents of his patients to help them promote the healthy habits children need to thrive.

Meet MarinHealth Pediatrician Dr. Sydney Sawyer

Tue, 22 Dec 2020 01:00:00 -0500

Dr. Sydney Sawyer of MarinHealth Pediatric Care | A UCSF Health Clinic wanted to be a pediatrician since the age of six! Her goal is to partner with parents and guide them through their children’s ages and stages, from birth to age 22. A New England native, the UCSF trained physician has three children of her own.

Meet MarinHealth Pediatrician Dr. Cindy Greenberg

Mon, 21 Dec 2020 01:00:00 -0500

Dr. Cindy Greenberg, a Pediatrician at MarinHealth Pediatric Care | A UCSF Health Clinic, has always enjoyed working with kids. Dr. Greenberg grew up in Marin where she has raised three children of her own. Here, she discusses how a lifelong calling to care for others has informed her choice of career and philosophy of care.

Meet MarinHealth Primary Care Physician Dr. Elisa Washburn

Fri, 18 Dec 2020 01:00:00 -0500

Dr. Elisa Washburn's hands-on approach to care stems from her 16 years as a rolfer. She worked with many people who were living with chronic pain
and wanted to learn new ways to help them. A graduate of TUCOM, TOURO Osteopathic College of Medicine in Vallejo, she has a strong background in osteopathic manipulation. Dr. Washburn is a committed advocate for her patients and believes in including them as partners in their own care.

Meet MarinHealth Pediatrician Dr. Megan Reeves

Tue, 17 Nov 2020 01:00:00 -0500

Dr. Megan Reeves, a Pediatrician at MarinHealth Pediatric Care | A UCSF Health Clinic, has an interesting take on the role of a pediatrician. She believes it’s the ultimate form of preventive medicine–an opportunity to partner with families and get youngsters on the path to a lifetime of good health.

Self Care for Caregivers

Tue, 27 Oct 2020 00:00:00 -0500

Did you know “Caregiver Stress” is an actual condition that affects people physically, mentally, and emotionally? Over time, the demands and responsibilities of caregiving can affect your blood pressure, your concentration, your digestion, your sleep, and many other aspects of your health. And sadly, caregiver stress is all too common.

Kora Schmid, palliative care supervisor, and spiritual care advisor at MarinHealth, is seeing a lot of caregiver stress these days as the hospital medical teams take on COVID-19. But people who are tending to an elderly or a sick relative experience it too. In this podcast, Kora shares tips on self-care and the importance of taking a break for a little me-time.

Knee Injuries, Including Prevention and Treatment

Fri, 23 Oct 2020 00:00:00 -0500

Whether it’s a fracture, a dislocation, or a torn meniscus, a knee injury can really hobble you. As an active person, how do you reduce your risk of knee injuries? When should you see a doctor? And what’s new in knee surgery?

Get the scoop from a man who really knows knees, MarinHealth Orthopedic Surgeon Dr. Michael Brown. This podcast covers a lot of ground, from the impact of osteoporosis on knee health to custom knee replacements. Take a listen – your knees will thank you.

Popular Fad Diets

Fri, 16 Oct 2020 00:00:00 -0500

Your neighbor’s hooked on Keto. Your boss swears by the Mediterranean Diet. Your cousin’s lost ten pounds with intermittent fasting. And your best friend says she’s got to DASH. Which diets are good for weight loss? Which is sustainable long term?

In this podcast, Pam Riggs, Outpatient Nutrition Coordinator and
Registered Dietician Nutritionist at MarinHealth, breaks down the popular diets. Listen to learn the pros and cons of various eating styles from a nutrition professional and figure out what makes sense for you.

Aging Into Medicare: What Do I Need to Know?

Thu, 08 Oct 2020 00:00:00 -0500

Many people look forward to making the move to Medicare. But first, it’s essential to understand the basics because you have some important choices to make before arriving at the option that best fits your needs.

Ivan Lopez, a licensed agent with Van Berg Insurance Services who works with MarinHealth partner Canopy Health, specializes in educating people about their Medicare options. In this podcast, he provides an overview of Medicare and offers advice on how to transition onto the program, walking you through what you need to know–and do–before signing up.

Medicare and Open Enrollment: What are my options?

Thu, 08 Oct 2020 00:00:00 -0500

Just because you’re currently enrolled in Medicare doesn’t mean you have the plan that best fits your circumstances. Now’s the time to review your options and, if desired, make a change. Anyone who has Medicare part A and part B can enroll, disenroll or change their Medicare Advantage Plan during Medicare Open Enrollment, from October 15th through December 7th.

In this podcast, Joe Valenzuela, a Licensed Agent with Vista Mutual Insurance Services who works with MarinHealth partner Canopy Health, explains why it’s a good idea to review your coverage each year. He also discusses some of the circumstances under which a change would be recommended or required. So, before you decide to just stay with the plan you have, tune in for some additional perspective.

Bike Accidents

Wed, 23 Sep 2020 00:00:00 -0500

Whether you just bike to and from work or you’re a hardcore mountain biker, there’s a lot more to bike safety than just putting your helmet on. Especially in Marin, where we have six times the number of bicycle accidents per trauma patient compared to your average trauma center!

As a Board-Certified General Surgeon at MarinHealth General & Colorectal Surgery | A UCSF Health Clinic and Trauma Medical Director of MarinHealth Medical Center, Dr. Edward Alfrey has plenty of hands-on experience with bike accidents. In this podcast, he details some of the most common injuries and shares some commonsense advice for bike riders.

Mindfulness Meditation

Wed, 23 Sep 2020 00:00:00 -0500

How’s your stress level these days? On second thought, let’s ask a different question: would you like to reduce your stress level–right now?
Find a comfortable spot to sit or lie down – anywhere quiet where you won’t be undisturbed by children, pets, or outside noises. Then, close your eyes and let Healing Arts Practitioner Corliss Chan guide you through a peaceful imaginary landscape and watch your troubles float away like little white clouds. This guided meditation is eight minutes well-spent. You’ll come out of it feeling relaxed and refreshed.

UNPUBLISHED PER CLIENT REQUEST----Find Calm with this Guided Meditation

Wed, 23 Sep 2020 00:00:00 -0500

These are challenging times and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Rather than give in to worry and negative thinking, take a few minutes to clear and refresh your mind with this guided meditation led by Kia De Lao from MarinHealth Integrative Wellness Center.

What Non-Smokers Need to Know About Lung Cancer

Tue, 22 Sep 2020 00:00:00 -0500

If you’ve never smoked in your life, lung cancer may be the least of your health concerns. Unfortunately, lung cancer does occasionally develop in non-smokers and doctors are studying a variety of potential causes.

In this podcast, Dr. Alex Metzger, a Hematologist and Oncologist at Marin Cancer Care, discusses the incidence of lung cancer in never-smokers. Learn about symptoms, risk factors, and potential treatment options.

Avoiding Kidney Stones

Wed, 02 Sep 2020 00:00:00 -0500

You could have kidney stones and not know it. That is, until one of those nasty little crystals forming on the surface of your kidneys break off and tries to pass through your urinary tract. The pain can be absolutely excruciating.

In this podcast, MarinHealth urologist Dr. Patrick Bennett explains what kidney stones are made of and how they form in your body. Learn about the risk factors and treatment options for this common, unpleasant, but ultimately curable condition.

Exercise and Heart Health

Tue, 28 Jul 2020 00:00:00 -0500

As the Coronavirus Pandemic sweeps across the nation, we keep hearing
about pre-existing conditions that increase our risk of complications from
COVID-19 and other illnesses. One of the most critical aspects of total
wellness is cardiovascular health. So how can you reduce your risk of
developing preexisting conditions like hypertension, hyperlipidemia, or
atherosclerosis–conditions that can lead to heart attack and stroke and
make you more vulnerable to disease?

In this podcast, MarinHealth cardiologist Dr. Brian Keefe gives us a crash
course in cardiovascular wellness. Get the big picture on the most common
heart conditions, testing, risk factors, and most importantly, what you can
do to maintain your heart health.

Guided Mediation

Thu, 16 Jul 2020 00:00:00 -0500

Kia De Lao leads a guided meditation.

Ostomies

Tue, 14 Jul 2020 00:00:00 -0500

An ostomy is a surgically created opening in the abdomen used to pass urine or stool from the body. Over a hundred thousand ostomy surgeries are performed each year, for a variety of reasons, from birth defects to cancer to bowel disease. Now, North Bay ostomy patients can get the specialized care they need at MarinHealth’s new Ostomy Clinic.

In this podcast, MarinHealth certified ostomy wound nurses Alice Basch and Jean Wize, supervisor of Wound Ostomy Services, tell us about the new clinic. Basch and Wize also discuss advances in ostomy care that make it easier for people to adjust to their procedure and lead normal, active lives.

Mental Health & Behavioral Health and How To Support Teens

Tue, 07 Jul 2020 00:00:00 -0500

If you’re raising a teen, you know moodiness comes with the territory.
Teenagers are sensitive creatures and they’re not always emotionally
mature enough to process what’s happening around them–especially
in a global pandemic. How well is your teen handling the stress of
current events, a disrupted school schedule and being away from
their friends?

Dr. Sydney Sawyer, a Pediatrician at Marin Health, discusses how
the pandemic is affecting teens at a stage in their development where
they would normally be expanding their horizons and becoming more
independent. Is your teen is struggling? Can you help them build
resiliency? At what point should you call a pediatrician or other health
professional? Get answers to these questions and more.

Planning a Pregnancy

Tue, 07 Jul 2020 00:00:00 -0500

Not every pregnancy is planned, but if you want to start a family in the not-
too-distant future, a little planning can’t hurt–including talking to an OBGYN
before you conceive.

Dr. Tamar Segev, an OBGYN at Marin Health, provides lots of useful
information for wannabe moms-to-be. Find out what health conditions your
doctor needs to know about. Get tips on healthy pre-pregnancy habits for
both you AND your partner. Learn what you should–and should not–eat
when you’re expecting. You’re bound to learn something new from this
informative podcast.

Gun Violence Prevention: A Trauma Surgeon Weighs In

Wed, 03 Jun 2020 00:00:00 -0500

According to a recent study by the World Health Organization, Americans are 25 times more likely to be victims of a gun related murder and 8 times more likely to commit suicide by firearm than the citizens of other developed countries. Is there a way for us to come together and change these sad statistics?

Like most trauma surgeons, MarinHealth’s Dr. John Maa has operated on his share of gun violence victims. In this podcast, Dr. Maa discusses his recent article in the New England Journal of Medicine. The article makes a powerful case for reframing the national firearms debate as a public health issue. Regardless of where you stand on gun control, this podcast will give you a lot to think about.

Shoulder Pain: Help Is Within Reach

Tue, 26 May 2020 00:00:00 -0500

You need help getting something off a high shelf because it hurts too much to reach. You roll over in bed in the middle of the night and shoulder pain wakes you up. Your arm feels week and you have a hard time picking up heavy objects. Shoulder problems can impact daily living in a multitude of ways.

Dr. Eric Bava, an Orthopedic Surgeon at MarinHealth Orthopedic Surgery | A UCSF Health Clinic, has helped many people resolve their shoulder issues, both through noninvasive treatments and innovative surgeries. In this podcast, he discusses the latest arthroscopic procedures, and the benefits of shoulder replacement surgery.

New Surgical Options for Trans Women

Thu, 21 May 2020 00:00:00 -0500

Gender dysphoria, in which the mind isn’t aligned with the gender you were born with, is a lifelong, emotionally painful condition. Fortunately, surgery that can help is now considered reconstructive and covered by most insurance plans in California.

In this podcast, Dr. Thomas Satterwhite, a surgeon who specializes in these sophisticated surgeries, discusses his passion for helping people suffering from gender dysphoria. While this podcast focuses on some of the male-to-female procedures now offered at MarinHealth Medical Center, we also offer highly innovative female-to-male surgeries.

Leading-Edge Surgeries for Trans Men

Thu, 21 May 2020 00:00:00 -0500

Gender affirmation surgery. Gender confirmation surgery. Gender alignment surgery. Surgeries to treat gender dysphoria go by a few different names, but the patients would all call them life-changing.

Here, Dr. Dave Gurajal discusses the latest female-to-male procedures, including new techniques for creating a functional phallus. He also covers the necessary preparation for gender affirmation surgery, involving a support and care team that can include a variety of specialists.

Meeting Your Child’s Emotional Needs During COVID-19

Fri, 15 May 2020 00:00:00 -0500

Home is the most reassuring place to be for most of us, especially our children. But in this unprecedented pandemic, kids have to deal with a major life disruption they can barely comprehend. They may get anxious, have problems with sleep and concentration, or even develop symptoms of PTSD.

In this podcast, MarinHealth Pediatrician Cindy Greenberg explains how structure and routine can help ground and reassure your child. Dr. Greenberg offers advice on how to engage and support youngsters during the COVID-19 crisis, and when it may be time to seek professional help.

Parenting in a Pandemic: Keeping Your Child Happy and Healthy

Thu, 14 May 2020 00:00:00 -0500

While the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of family, being homebound together can be stressful. Lack of exercise and too much snacking can impact children’s physical health. Little kids may be anxious and more accident-prone. Teens may act more sullen and rebellious.

Dr. Sydney Sawyer, a MarinHealth pediatrician, discusses the effects of the COVID-19 crisis on children’s physical and emotional health. Listen for advice on how to reassure your children and keep them safe and well during this trying time.

Staying Mentally and Emotionally Healthy During the Pandemic

Mon, 11 May 2020 00:00:00 -0500

Sheltering in place and social distancing have altered our way of life and are wearing on us mentally and emotionally. Fear of the unknown, loneliness and isolation, confinement, and worries about the future are impacting us all to some degree. For those with existing mental health and/or substance abuse issues, the current situation can be especially destabilizing.

Jennifer Bates, Manager of Outpatient Behavioral Health at MarinHealth, weighs in on maintaining one’s mental health in these uncertain times. Listen for some useful advice to help reduce the stress and anxiety out of sheltering in place. Learn the signs that you or a loved one might be at risk for depression or other mental health issues and find out where you can get help.

Seven Steps for Self Love

Tue, 05 May 2020 00:00:00 -0500

As we deal with confinement, scary news stories, and a shuttered economy, self-care is more important than ever. Sheltering in place alone can lead to feelings of anxiety and isolation. On the other hand, caring for a home and family with little opportunity to take a break can leave you feeling stressed, fatigued and short-tempered, and even lead to burnout.

In this podcast, Kora Schmid, palliative care supervisor and spiritual care advisor at MarinHealth, shares seven ways to practice self-love in difficult times. Your physical, mental, and emotional health are all interconnected and this podcast offers actionable advice that can improve your wellness all the way around.

Immunity-Boosting Meals for Sheltering in Place

Tue, 28 Apr 2020 00:00:00 -0500

Good food can be a real comfort when you’re sheltering in place for days. But we all need to resist the temptation to boredom-binge on sweets, or fatty, salty snacks. In this podcast, you will get advice on how to shop, cook, and eat to help your household stay healthy during the pandemic.

Pamela Riggs is the outpatient nutrition coordinator and registered dietician nutritionist at MarinHealth. Here, she shares tips for planning and preparing wholesome meals for the whole family. Listen and find out what specific foods and nutrients to focus on for a healthy immune system.

Help For Pelvic Prolapse

Tue, 05 Nov 2019 09:00:00 -0500

Most women experience pregnancy at least once, and all women eventually go through menopause – two “facts of life” that increase your risk for pelvic organ prolapse. This occurs when the muscles and tissues supporting the uterus, bladder or rectum become weak or loose and one or more of the pelvic organs drop or press into or out of the vagina. While pelvic prolapse is no threat to your health, it can be a distressing quality of life issue.

Dr. Robert Chan, a Urologist at MarinHealth Urology, is an expert in urogynecological surgery. In this podcast, he discusses the types of prolapse and what you can do to keep the problem from worsening. He also talks about some surgical and non-surgical solutions for pelvic prolapse. Listen and learn what you can do to address this common condition.

Immunizations: The right thing to do for the whole community

Mon, 18 Mar 2019 08:00:00 -0500

Immunizations don’t just protect your child’s health – they help protect the entire community. Thanks to vaccines, we have eliminated smallpox from the face of the earth and are well on our way to eradicating polio. According to the CDC, since the year 2000, the measles vaccine has prevented 20.4 million deaths globally.
So why is there still so much controversy and misinformation around these potentially life-saving immunizations?

Dr. Nelson Branco, a pediatrician at Tamalpais Pediatrics who is also on staff at MarinHealth Medical Center, is a strong proponent of vaccinating children. Here, he discusses the powerful benefits of vaccines and the many myths and misconceptions surrounding them. Know what you should – and shouldn’t – worry about when it comes to vaccinating your children against dangerous illnesses.

Audio Relaxation Exercise

Sat, 23 Feb 2019 09:00:00 -0500

Life can be a little hectic, and enjoying this 20-minute guided imagery audio file can help you relax and recharge. Guided relaxation is a powerful tool that helps manage stress, find inner peace, and improve mental function. It can also cultivate self-awareness, compassion, and empathy.

Dealing with Distal Fractures

Mon, 07 Jan 2019 09:00:00 -0500

The radius is the most commonly broken bone in the arm. When the break occurs at the wrist, the injury is known as a distal radius fracture. Some of these fractures are “lucky breaks” in that there is no bone displacement. In such cases, the arm can heal nicely with just a cast to support and immobilize the break. However, when bone is shattered or displaced, surgery will be needed to restore normal function to the arm.

Orthopedist Dr. David Nelson, a hand surgeon with MarinHealth Medical Center, has performed many reparative surgeries on distal radius fractures. Here, he explains what to look for if you are concerned you may have a distal fracture, and whether you can safely wait a day to get an X-ray. Dr. Nelson also discusses why it’s better to delay surgery until the swelling starts to go down, and what to expect from the recovery process.

The Cardiovascular Performance Center: Exercise, Athletics, and Heart Health

Mon, 26 Nov 2018 09:00:00 -0500

MarinHealth Medical Center’s renowned cardiology program has expanded its expertise to include the growing discipline of Sports Cardiology. This new medical specialty helps active people of all ages and proficiency levels, from weekend warriors to professional athletes, perform at their peak while protecting their cardiovascular health.

In this podcast, Medical Director Brian Keeffe MD provides an overview of the Cardiovascular Performance Center at MarinHealth Medical Center, including consultation, testing, and the types of patients who benefit from participating in this groundbreaking program.

Multimodal-pain Management

Mon, 19 Nov 2018 09:00:00 -0500

The opioid crisis has caused many physicians to rethink pain management and stop turning to opioids as the default solution.

Surgeons are increasingly turning to multimodal solutions including setting patient expectations through preoperative education, ice, elevation, pre-operative blocks, and over-the-counter analgesics.

Board-certified in orthopedics, Dr. David Nelson is the only hand surgeon in the US to hold a membership in the International Association for the Study of Pain. Dr. Nelson has been researching post surgical pain and pain management for twenty-seven years. Here, he discusses his professional experience, his research findings, and how to approach pain management from a whole-patient perspective.

A Shot At Better Health

Mon, 17 Sep 2018 08:00:00 -0500

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), measles was considered to have been eradicated in the United States in 2000. But in 2014, the disease made a comeback: The CDC tracked 644 cases. More recently, there was a large outbreak of 380 cases in a religious community in Ohio, where vaccination was opposed. While some parents still question the benefits of vaccinating their children, research has shown that illnesses such as measles, whooping cough, and meningitis are preventable by vaccination.

One such proponent for vaccinations is Nelson Branco, MD, FAAP, a pediatrician at MarinHealth Medical Center. In this podcast, Dr. Branco discusses the benefits of vaccines and when to have them over the course of a lifetime. He also comments on the much-publicized Disneyland measles outbreak as a lesson of what can happen when children and the community at large are not adequately protected from highly contagious diseases.

Postpartum Mood Disorders

Mon, 10 Sep 2018 08:00:00 -0500

Is it the “baby blues” or postpartum depression? Only time can tell.
After giving birth, 80% of women respond to the sudden hormone change with mood swings and anxiety. If, however, this moodiness lasts more than two or three weeks, the cause could be postpartum depression or anxiety.

Gina Borelli Moore, MFT, is the facilitator of Pathways, a postpartum support group offered at MarinHealth Medical Center. In this podcast, Gina discusses perinatal mood issues and how to tell when symptoms evolve into something worrisome for new moms and their families. Gina also discusses Pathways, the new mother support group she runs for MarinHealth Medical Center. The six-session series takes on a different topic each week and mothers are encouraged to bring their babies along. Click here for more information.

TAVR: The Minimally Invasive Aortic Stenosis Treatment

Mon, 03 Sep 2018 08:00:00 -0500

Aortic stenosis is a progressive narrowing of the aortic valve opening. This constriction forces the heart to pump harder in order to get blood through the valve and out to the body. Over time, aortic stenosis can damage the heart and lead to heart failure. Until recently, the only treatment option was open-heart surgery for patients.

In this podcast, Dr. Ramon Partida, an Interventional Cardiologist at MarinHealth Medical Center, describes a new and minimally invasive procedure called transcatheter aortic valve replacement or TAVR. This intervention actually replaces the defective valve by threading a catheter through a vein in the groin, up to the heart, pushing aside the faulty valve. Find out how TAVR is giving aortic stenosis patients a new lease on life.

Fad Diets: Are They Right For People With Diabetes?

Mon, 27 Aug 2018 08:00:00 -0500

While there are established guidelines for a diabetic diet, many people with diabetes are tempted to try other options – mainly Keto, Paleo, and the Mediterranean diet. But are these good options for managing diabetes long term?

Katy McDermott, RDN, CDE, Outpatient Dietitcian and Diabetes Educator at MarinHealth Medical Center's Braden Diabetes Center, weighs in on the pros and cons of these popular ways of eating for people with diabetes. Each of these three diets can have short-term benefits, but there are drawbacks to making any one of them your default way of eating. Listen and learn more about healthy eating for those with diabetes.