It may not be dinner table conversation yet, but we need to get more comfortable talking about our rear ends. Colorectal cancer has risen drastically among younger people, and now we’re seeing another concerning trend with anal cancer. For both men and women, high risk HPV has been linked to increased rates of anal cancer, and the best way to screen is through a test called an anal Pap smear. Many women find the test more comfortable than a vaginal Pap smear, and it can conveniently be done during the same visit. Although the topic can feel uncomfortable, awareness and early detection are critical. In this episode, Dr. Ketan Thanki takes the mystery (and stress) out of this important screening and explains how HPV prevention, including expanded vaccine eligibility for adults ages 26–45, can help lower cancer risk. 

Learn more about Ketan Thanki, MD 

Why does it seem like your child is always sick once winter rolls around? In this episode, we tackle the questions every parent asks: Does cold weather really make kids sick? How do you tell the difference between a cold and the flu? And when should you worry that it’s something more serious? We’ll share practical tips to boost your child’s immunity, explain why back-to-back illnesses happen, and give you expert advice on when to call a doctor—or use MemorialCare’s 24/7 virtual urgent care for peace of mind. If you’ve ever wondered, ‘Is this normal?’—you won’t want to miss this conversation.

Lower back pain is more than just an annoyance—it can impact your sleep, mood, and daily life. In this episode, Dr. Stephen Huo breaks down what really causes lower back pain, how to prevent it, and what treatments actually work. From posture tips to advanced pain management, you’ll walk away with practical strategies for feeling better and moving freely.

Open Enrollment is here, and yes, it can be confusing. But it doesn’t have to be. From October 7 to December 15, you’ve got a window to make smart choices about Medicare coverage for yourself or loved ones. In this episode, Jose Juarez cuts through the jargon and lays out what you really need to know—so you can feel confident, not overwhelmed.

The majority of congenital heart defects are detected before birth or shortly after—but not always. In this episode, we explore how some heart conditions can go unnoticed until a child faints during sports, struggles to breathe while crawling, or simply seems more tired than usual. Though these cases are less common, they highlight the importance of recognizing subtle signs. With real-life examples, including Bronny James’ cardiac arrest during practice, we speak with a pediatric heart expert from Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital about what parents should be aware of, how these conditions are diagnosed, and what to do if something doesn’t feel right. It’s a conversation that empowers families with knowledge and awareness.

Join Dr. Hanna as we unpack why back pain is everywhere—from bad posture to aging—and how the Back & Neck Health Center at Long Beach Medical Center is flipping the script with non-surgical, personalized care. Whether you're desk-bound or just tired of hurting, this episode shows how integrated spine care can help you move better and feel stronger, without the need for surgery.

As we celebrate Spanish Heritage Month this September, we recognize how cherished traditions—like family gatherings and passed-down recipes—shape our heart health. Dr. Christina Rodriguez shares how Hispanic families can protect their hearts from disease, especially when high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease are part of the picture, all while preserving the culture that unites them. 

Learn more about Christina Rodriguez Ruiz, M.D. 

Ready to delve into the critical intersection of cardiology and oncology? In this episode, Dr. Fernando Mendoza and Dr. Peyman Kabolizadeh unravel the intricacies of heart health during cancer treatment. Discover the potential heart complications that may arise from radiation therapy and the innovative technologies at MemorialCare Todd Cancer Institute designed to mitigate these risks. Whether you're a patient, caregiver, or health care enthusiast, this insightful discussion promises to equip you with the knowledge to navigate the complex landscape of cancer treatment while safeguarding heart health.

This episode dives into the importance of nutritious, balanced lunches for children and teens as they head back to school. Corcoran Downey, a clinical dietitian at Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital, shares practical tips for parents and caregivers on how to pack meals that fuel learning, boost energy, and support overall well-being—without adding stress to busy mornings.

Join Dr. Kevin Shah as he delves into the alarming rise of heart disease within the South Asian population. In this eye-opening podcast, Dr. Shah explores the genetic predispositions, lifestyle choices, and dietary habits that contribute to this pressing issue. Discover the preventive measures and tailored healthcare approaches that can make a difference in managing heart disease in this community. Tune in for expert insights, real-life stories, and actionable advice that could save lives. 

Learn more about Kevin Shah, M.D. 

Join us for a conversation with Rita Goshert, director of the Cherese Mari Laulhere Child Life Program at Miller Children's & Women's Hospital, as she delves into the transformative impact of medical play on children's healing journeys. In this episode, Rita shares her expertise and experiences, highlighting how medical play can alleviate anxiety, foster understanding, and empower young patients facing medical challenges. 

Learn more about Rita Goshert, MA, CCLS 

This episode explores the emotional challenges children and teens face as they transition back to school. Dr. Amy Morse, a board-certified psychologist in Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology, shares expert insights and practical strategies for parents and caregivers to help ease anxiety, build resilience, and foster a confident start to the school year. 

Learn more about Amy Morse, PsyD, ABPP 

This episode focuses on the formation of body image in teenagers and the impact of peer pressure and social media. Dr. Amy Morse, a board-certified psychologist in Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology, shares valuable tips for parents and caregivers on how to support teens in developing a healthy self-esteem. Tune in to learn how to counteract the negative influences and promote a positive body image. 

Learn more about Amy Morse, PsyD, ABPP

In this episode, Dr. Bhattacharya sheds light on the often-overlooked condition of sleep apnea—its warning signs, health risks, and the life-changing impact of early detection. Joined by a sleep specialist, the conversation dives into how to recognize potential symptoms in yourself or loved ones and explores the latest in diagnostic tools and treatment options. From simple lifestyle adjustments to advanced therapies like CPAP and the Inspire device, discover how innovation is reshaping the future of sleep health.

As summer approaches, kids are spending more time outside—riding bikes, climbing on playgrounds, and walking through their neighborhoods. It’s a season full of adventure and fresh air, but it also brings a higher risk of injuries. That’s why we’re turning to Jennifer Rodriguez from Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital Injury Prevention Program. In this episode, she shares practical safety tips every parent and caregiver should know. From pedestrian safety to preventing playground injuries and making sure helmets are worn correctly, Jennifer covers the essentials to help keep kids safe while they enjoy the sunshine. Whether you're a parent, grandparent, or just someone who cares about the well-being of kids in your community, this is a conversation worth tuning into.

The holiday season is a time for joy and celebration, not unexpected trips to the emergency room. Unfortunately, pediatric emergency departments often experience a 10% to 20% increase in visits during the weeks leading up to and following the holidays. In this podcast, Jen Rodriguez, injury prevention coordinator, will share valuable insight on how to ensure a safer holiday season when selecting gifts for children.

Leslie Young M.D. discusses when parents should take their kids to the emergency room vs. urgent care. He shares the services urgent care can provide before going directly to the emergency room. He also shares how accessible urgent care is and the ability to get in line from your phone - as well as receive virtual urgent care. He does mention immediate alarming signs for when a child should go into the emergency room.

This podcast episode will explain the science and safety of childhood vaccines, highlighting how they prevent serious illnesses and protect individual children and the broader community. It will emphasize why timely vaccination is crucial for public health.

In this episode, Phillip Yuan, M.D., orthopedic surgeon, discusses how MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center is revolutionizing spine surgery with the Stryker Q Spine Guidance 5 System with Copilot. He explains how this advanced technology enhances surgical precision, improves patient outcomes, and streamlines procedures, making spine surgery safer and more efficient than ever before.

In this episode, Stephanie Davis, Speech-Language Pathologist at Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital, shares what every parent should know about pediatric speech therapy, from understanding what it is and how it works to knowing when it might benefit your child.

Speech-language pathologists do more than help children say their first words, they support development in areas like speech sounds, language, social communication, and even feeding skills.

Whether your child is a toddler who isn’t talking yet or a school-aged child facing communication challenges, this episode offers practical insights into what to watch for, what to expect from therapy, and how families can play an active role in their child’s progress.

In this episode, Dr. Ioana Pal, adolescent psychologist at the Stramski Children’s Developmental Center at Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital, will explore the emotional and psychological toll school shootings have on children and teens. Whether they’ve experienced a shooting directly or are affected by the constant coverage, kids today are growing up in a world where safety at school is no longer guaranteed. Dr. Pal will discuss how exposure to violence impacts mental health, what signs of trauma parents and educators should look for, and how to help children process fear and anxiety in healthy ways.

Dr. May Nour, interventional neuroradiologist at MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center, explores the life-saving impact of the Mobile Stroke Unit. Dr. Nour shares how this “hospital on wheels” is transforming emergency stroke care by bringing rapid diagnosis and treatment directly to patients—when every second counts.

In this episode, Dr. Torin Cunningham, medical director of the Orthopedic Center at Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital, will discuss scoliosis in children – a condition that, when detected early, can lead to better long-term outcomes. Dr. Cunningham will explain what scoliosis is, how to recognize early signs, and why timely screening is important. Listeners will learn about the latest technology, when to screen their children, and how families can play a key role in early intervention.

This podcast episode explores the life-saving power of clot-busting drugs in stroke treatment and why every second counts when a stroke occurs. Dr. Patel explains how these medications work, the critical time window for their effectiveness, and the importance of recognizing stroke symptoms early to seek immediate medical care.

In the episode “The Role of Occupational Therapy in a Children’s Hospital”, expert Dr. Shawna Townsend will explore the essential role of occupational therapy in children's hospitals. Listeners will discover how occupational therapists support physical, cognitive, and emotional development, collaborate with other specialists, and make a significant impact on long-term developmental outcomes for children.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in America, with one person dying every 33 seconds from heart disease. To help prevent this, it’s important to get routine heart screenings to find heart disease before it escalates.

Heart failure occurs when the heart muscle doesn’t pump blood as well as it should and should not be confused with a heart attack. Leading and advanced treatment can help improve the symptoms of heart failure and may help some people live longer. Dr. Yoon will explain how MemorialCare Heart & Vascular Institute at Long Beach Medical Center helps those with heart failure live longer, while preserving their quality of life.

Dr. Marshall Gillette discusses palliative care, who can benefit from it, what it looks like in practice, and more.

Join pediatric psychologist Dr. Amy Morse as she offers expert advice to parents navigating the complex impact of social media on children’s mental health. From understanding social media habits to fostering healthy self-esteem, this podcast empowers parents with practical strategies to help their kids thrive in the digital world.

Dr. Asif Harsolia debunks the common misconceptions or misunderstandings of radiation treatment. By providing better understanding of what radiation treatment is and what it entails can help provide a better understanding to patients who are needing radiation treatment and put their mind at ease.

In this episode, Mitchell Tsurudome, PT, discusses common vestibular issues such as dizziness, vertigo, and balance disorders, which can increase the risk of falls, especially in older adults. He highlights the specialized Balance and Vestibular Rehabilitation Program at MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center, explaining how expert evaluation and tailored therapy can help patients regain stability, improve mobility, and enhance their overall quality of life.

This podcast explores the critical role of support in stroke recovery, featuring insights from Lenna Chitgar, neuroscience nurse navigator at Saddleback Medical Center. Lenna discusses the challenges stroke survivors and caregivers face, the benefits of support groups, and practical ways to build a strong support system. Listeners will gain valuable advice on navigating recovery and stroke support resources.

The Pediatric Hand Therapy Program at MemorialCare Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital helps children from infancy through young adulthood who are recovering from injuries, surgery or congenital conditions affecting the hands and arms, including the wrists, elbows and shoulders. Hand therapists focus on improving strength, movement, functionality and dexterity by using different types of exercises and treatments to help children with self-care, play and school activities.

This podcast explores how family medicine differs from other primary care specialties, with a focus on the importance of back-to-school physicals and guidance on when to see a doctor for sports-related injuries. Dr. Arnold Cuenca will share insights on providing comprehensive care for families, including addressing common musculoskeletal issues.

There are so many decisions to make when it comes to planning for a baby, including what kind of birth you’d like to have, what type of care provider you’d like to use, and how to prepare for your birth. Jessica Ayala will talk about the maternity concierge service offered to expecting mothers who choose to deliver their baby at the Women’s Hospital at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center. She will explain how the maternity concierge provides personalized support throughout the maternity journey and partners with specialized care teams at the Women’s Hospital to address each mother’s unique needs and questions.

In this podcast, Roneet Cooper, a LCSW community based social worker at Saddleback Medical Center, discusses the concept of practicing Neurobics and how brain games help seniors stay mentally sharp by creating new neural pathways. She shares practical tips and activities that boost cognitive function and overall well-being.

As schools reopen each year, the importance of back-to-school vaccines cannot be overstated. This podcast will highlight the significance of vaccination for students, to safeguard them from common illnesses such as mumps, rubella, pertussis, and influenza, while contributing to the collective immunity necessary for public health. This podcast will also delve into the concerning resurgence of measles and underscore the critical importance of vaccinations in combating this highly contagious disease.

Dr. Jahan will educate listeners about ischemic strokes, including their signs and symptoms, and the critical importance of calling 911 as soon as signs of stroke occur. Dr. Jahan will also highlight the expertise of The Division of Interventional Neuroradiology (DINR) team at Long Beach Medical Center, showcasing the latest minimally invasive treatment options available at Long Beach Medical Center’s Comprehensive Stroke Center and how the care team provides exceptional care to their patients.

This podcast explores the benefits and advancements of image-guided spine surgery, highlighting how cutting-edge imaging technology enhances surgical precision, reduces risks, and improves recovery times for patients. Join Dr. Bhalla to discuss the transformative impact of these techniques on spine care and patient outcomes.

In this podcast, Jennifer Rodriguez, injury prevention coordinator, will talk about the importance of safety measures around Halloween, including costume safety, neighborhood and pedestrian safety, safe candy practices and what to do in case of emergencies. Emergency rooms frequently see a spike in visits on Halloween due to safety factors, making it a critical time for heightened safety awareness and preparedness.

Aortic dissection is a dangerous condition of the heart and must be treated quickly and effectively to ensure survival. The Comprehensive Aortic Program, part of the MemorialCare Heart & Vascular Institute at Long Beach Medical Center, is dedicated to the early detection, monitoring and treatment of various aortic diseases using evidence-based treatments.

Microvascular dysfunction is a heart disease affecting the walls and inner lining of tiny coronary artery blood vessels that branch off from the larger coronary arteries. Younger women are at a higher risk of developing this disease, and the Women’s Heart Center at MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center want to ensure women understand the signs and symptoms of the disease early.

In this podcast, Jennifer Rodriguez will talk about the importance of swimming safety for children and families, as well as the common risks associated with swimming and how to mitigate them.

Dr. Leslie Young will be discussing the complex landscape of ADHD. He will be providing tips on how families can create a supportive environment for children with ADHD and help them channel their energy in different ways.

Dr. Ramkumar will discuss hip arthroscopy in-depth, detailing the procedure, its benefits, the conditions it treats, who qualifies, preoperative preparations, the recovery process, and expected outcomes. As one of Southern California's top three hip arthroscopy surgeons based on case volume, he offers valuable insights from his extensive experience.

In this podcast, Leigh Hunter, RN, will talk about pediatric diagnoses of Sickle Cell Disease and how parents can navigate their child’s diagnosis. She will cover understanding the condition, managing symptoms, treatment options, and how to support a child’s overall well-being with this condition.

Join Dr. Snodgrass, a dedicated primary care and sports medicine provider, as he delves into the latest advancements in health care, from cutting-edge treatments for sports concussions to innovative techniques in musculoskeletal care. With a wealth of experience in sports medicine and a passion for holistic patient care, Dr. Snodgrass shares his insights and expertise in optimizing health and performance for athletes and individuals alike.

There are various issues that can affect your child’s mental health. Cultural and Socio-Economic factors are two key components that can have a huge impact. Dr. Iona Pal will talk about how understanding and respecting diverse cultural perspectives and socioeconomic contexts is vital in providing effective and inclusive mental health support for children and how the Stramski Children’s Center at Miller Children’s & Women’s provides resources to support your children and help them navigate any mental health concerns they may have.

A thoracic aortic aneurysm is a weakened area in the body’s main artery – the aorta – which causes the vessel to widen significantly, and if not treated promptly, can cause a tear in the aorta and lead to sudden death. Dr. Rodney White, the medical director of vascular surgery at MemorialCare Heart & Vascular Institute at Long Beach Medical Center, joins us to explain what a thoracic aortic aneurysm is, its symptoms, and when to receive treatment.

Technology advancements and new medications are making a huge difference in coronary disease, allowing patients to delay heart procedures. However, for patients who may need a cardiac procedure, they should ask their cardiologist or physician about the future of heart health and the minimally invasive procedures available that are best suited for their needs.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death among women in the U.S. Early detection and treatment could save many lives but requires going farther and deeper than the accepted approach. To help women with their heart health, MemorialCare Heart & Vascular Institute created the Women’s Heart Center – a specialized center dedicated solely to expertise in education, prevention, early diagnosis, and timely management of women-specific cardiac presentations across their lifespan.

Athletes require a strong heart to maintain the high level of physical activity they perform frequently, but heart disease, including those passed down from family, can prevent them from doing so. Dr. Christina Rodriguez will explain how diagnostic imaging can help find heart disease to eliminate risks sooner, including a recent cardiac case involving a Long Beach Marathon runner.

Although the risk for severe joint pain increases as you age, joint pain can happen at any age, especially in those who are very active or involved in sports. In this podcast, Dr. Wassef will explain how joint pain can affect young adults, how to manage joint pain and when medical intervention is necessary.

We use our necks and backs daily to perform tasks throughout the day such as lifting, sitting, walking, and resting. If these tasks are performed with improper form or posture, it can cause chronic neck and back pain, and in extreme cases, severe injury. To avoid back or neck pain from occurring, it is important to know what steps you can take in advance to prevent back or neck pain.

Dr. Linda Chan explains a new PSMA PET Scan study that is revolutionizing care at MemorialCare Cancer Institute for prostate cancer patients whose cancer has metastasized. The scan’s ability to detect the progress of radiation treatment halfway through the process will allow physicians to make real-time adjustments to ensure the cancer is being directly targeted; making cancer treatments even more tailored to a person’s cancer journey than ever before.

Back pain can be a debilitating condition, making it hard to complete everyday activities and decreasing one’s quality of life and it can be very difficult to diagnose since it can be caused by many different factors. If you have intense pain where your lower spine and pelvis meet, it may be sacroiliitis.

Adolescence is a time when children begin to mature and experience mental and physical changes. As these changes begin, some adolescents may start to question their sexuality. Unfortunately, too often children find themselves unable to fully embrace themselves and who they are, which impacts their mental and physical health. Dr. Linderholm will explain how kids may be dealing with trying to figure out their own sexuality, what parents can do to support them, and the services offered at the MemorialCare Medical Group Family Medicine Clinic to assist parents and other loved ones. 

In this interview, listeners will gain valuable insights into the diverse treatment options available to women facing the challenges of menopause. The discussion will also delve into hormone replacement therapy, shedding light on its potential benefits and considerations for women’s health during this life stage.

September marks National Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) Awareness Month, a critically important time to raise awareness for this life-threatening arrhythmia. Atrial fibrillation, also known as AFib or AF, is defined as an irregular heartbeat that can lead to various heart-related complications such as blood clots, stroke, and heart failure. During this talk, Dr. Drury will help the public become more familiar with the symptoms, warning signs, how to stop an AFib episode, available treatment options and how to manage living with this condition.

Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC) refers to the vaginal delivery of a baby after a previous delivery by cesarean section. For many people, VBAC can be a safe and successful delivery option. The benefits of VBAC include a shorter stay in the hospital, faster recovery, no surgery and lower risk for infections.

Clinical Nutrition Supervisor, Crystal Vila RD, CNSC, CLT discusses the importance of nutrition during cancer treatment, what patients may experience, nutritional recommendations and resources available about specific cancer nutrition interventions.

Excessive screentime can have a negative effect on a child’s physical and mental health. Dr. Pal will discuss how too much screen time can result in depression, anxiety, mood and emotional dysregulation in children and the services offered at the Stramski Children’s Developmental Center at MemorialCare Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital Long Beach to assist parents and caregivers.

Menopause is a natural part of the aging process. Perimenopause and menopause are triggered by hormones that fluctuate and decrease. A common symptom often associated with hormonal changes is pain. Dr. de Winter will address what causes pelvic pain during menopause and some of the indicators such as urinary incontinence, constipation and especially atrophy that causes dryness and discomfort during intercourse. Dr. de Winter will also share with listeners how the specialized medical teams and the Pelvic Health Center at MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center can help treat women who are experiencing these symptoms.

Congenital Heart Disease is one of the most common birth defects in the United States and can be overlooked due to symptoms not being too serious or not appearing until children grow older. To help parents identify if their child has congenital heart disease, Dr. Rahimi explains what causes congenital heart disease, its signs and symptoms, and what to do when children start showing symptoms.

The MemorialCare Heart & Vascular Institute at Long Beach Medical Center offers the latest in advanced technologies, nationally recognized physicians, and innovative treatments to provide the complete continuum of cardiovascular care. Why trust your heart to anyone less than the best?

As Halloween approaches, children will be out trick or treating again. There are tips for parents to help ensure their children stay safe and healthy while they are out enjoying the holiday festivities.

Essential Tremor (ET) affects about 10 million Americans. ET is a neurological condition causes shaking of the hands, head and voice, but it can also cause the legs and trunk to shake. It’s often confused with Parkinson’s disease, although it is eight times more common. MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center now offers a new, incisionless treatment for patients suffering from Essential Tremor (ET) using a method called MR-guided Focused Ultrasound to treat Essential Tremor of the dominant hand. Board-Certified and Fellowship-Trained Neurosurgeon, Devin K. Binder, M.D., Ph.D., discusses how this treatment is performed, who is eligible as a candidate, benefits of the procedure and what to expect post-procedure.

Dr. Mark Sakwa, Chief of Cardiovascular Surgery at MemorialCare Heart & Vascular Institute, and Medical Director of Adult Cardiovascular Surgery at MemorialCare & Vascular Institute at Long Beach Medical Center discusses the minimally invasive options that are revolutionizing the treatment of valve disease.

Influenza also commonly known as the flu, is a serious respiratory disease. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), each year roughly 200,000 Americans are hospitalized due to flu-related complications, with as many as 49,000 deaths from influenza-related causes.

Listen in as Eric Morley, MD, MPH discusses the difference between a cold and flu in children and specific ways to help boost your child’s immune system.